Chapter 1
2 am
“Is this the right bungalow ?” whispered Akshat who was wearing a black mask with openings at eyes and mouth .
“Yes. This is it . They are out of city for 2 days .” whispered back John while wearing the same black mask. Azim gave a thumbs up looking at both of them.
They all climbed the wall and entered the bungalow through the balcony . Azim fidgeted with the balcony door for sometime and there was a click sound . That sound excited all of them.
First hurdle clear !!
They went inside. Azim and John started looking for valuables with their torch. They started putting all the valuables in their bag while Akshat started searching the bed room for a locker, he was good with opening lockers. He searched all around but find couldn’t find any locker . Disappointed he started heading out for the balcony. While going out he saw a cute black college bag , he liked it hence grabbed it, along with some clothes that were hanging out in the balcony. When he turned back, he found Azim and John behind looking surprised.
“Man , Whats wrong with you ? we are looking for money and valuables , you are here catching hold of some shitty clothes ? weren’t you supposed to look for a locker?”
“I did . there is no locker. And hey whats wrong with taking some good clothes ?” said Akshat with a smirk . Both of them waved their hands in air expressing their disbelief at what they just heard.
Next Day – 11 am
“How are you Sir, Mam . Do you need a guide to show you around this beautiful Monument . I will tell you things even google doesn’t know ” Akshat said to 2 foreigners from USA in their mid 30s who had just entered Shanivar Wada for sight seeing. They both looked at each other and agreed to hire Akshat as their Guide . Akshat was 19 yrs old who lived in Narvi slum . But his looks didn’t fit the general stereotype image of a slum kid. He was fair , tall with piercing black eyes with dense smooth hair that played effortlessly with breeze . Also being a guide he had an impeccable English communication , hence he could pass by an unknown person as a kid from a rich educated family.
Next Day – Morning
“I don’t want to go for work today ” Akshat said to himself as soon as he opened his eyes and stared at the old ceiling fan that was dragging itself around unwillingly. His home was a small 10*10 room on 1st floor in a densely populated chawl. The chawl looked so fragile that it felt like one small natural calamity might wipe it out entirely. Most of the time the chawl smelt bad as it didn’t have proper drainage system. In fact the chawl ended at a huge open drainage, so no doubt all the area was blessed with that smell. An occasional visitor to this chawl felt sick to his stomach because of the smell and some even puked because of it. But people living in this chawl were used to all this filth and didn’t mind it. Some even felt at home due this smell. The chaos of the chawl was already filling the atmosphere. Akshat’s eyes were pondering around the room while his mom was busy cooking meal for the day. The smoke from the Stove shined in the morning sunlight that was beaming inside through the window that was just above it. Akshat’s eyes got fixated at the school bag he had picked some days back. He woke up and went through the bag. Suddenly something struck him and he immediately went to the small area in the corner which was covered by a thin green cloth. It was the bathroom.
He came out after taking a bath and picked a shirt and jeans which he had stolen along with the bag. He wore it and went in front of the mirror to comb his hair. He couldn’t believe what he was seeing in the mirror . He was looking very handsome. he combed and adjusted his shirt . Even his mom paused for a moment and looked at him in curiosity.
“Whose clothes are these ? Where are you heading ?”
“You honestly want to know ?” questioned Akshat back that made his mom go back to her cooking.
He put on his slippers and headed out . As he was walking on the road most of people couldn’t believe it was Akshat. Some girls started ogling him and even started whispering to each other and giggling . Akshat realized that people were staring him . He felt good but avoided looking back at them. He kept walking with a smile on his face.He was carrying the bag on his right shoulder which was bouncing with each steps creating a weird symphony.
“Akshat ! Is that you ? Wow you look so different and whats up with the bag . You joined a college or something ” asked Mahesh , one his childhood friend who met him on the S B Road . His eyes were wide open as if he had seen God and was shooting a bunch of questions at Akshat.
Akshat too was taken aback by the sheer number of questions.
“Yes Mahi. I have joined Symensis College ” lied Akshat while looking back at his bag’s logo just to confirm the name.
“You are so lucky yaar. I am still working in Natraj Hotel . I so want to study and do something . Feels good to see someone doing good in their life ” said Mahesh in hopeful and content tone .
“Thanks Mahi ” Said guilty Akshat. He just wanted to have fun by lying a bit but instantly regretted his decision and wished he had told him the truth.
They bid good bye and Akshat kept walking ahead . He reached the Symensis College gate.
The college was buzzing with young boys and girls entering through the gates either by bikes or bicycles. All students looked super happy and were in their respective friend circles laughing ,eating and playing . The overall atmosphere was very energetic and Akshat could feel it.
“Should I enter the college ? ” Akshat thought to himself . But fear crept in
“What if I get caught ? What if they hand me over to police ?” Akshat was in a dilemma. but he anyways started walking towards the gate . His heart started pumping like it would emerge out of his rib cage. He kept looking everywhere just to make sure no one was suspicious or following him. His legs stopped just before the gate.
“Think one more time. Don’t be stupid.” said a voice in his head but the other voice in his head screamed “Just go .. Have fun .. take the risk ”
The moment he stepped inside he saw a security guard in front of him. He froze for a second . He slowly started walking past him. The guard gave Akshat a glance and then continued looking at his phone with headphones plugged in his ear. He breathed a sigh of relief and kept walking ahead while looking back just to take a final look at the security guard.
“Thank god . Cant believe I am inside the college ” Akshat said to himself, but before he could think about anything else he was hit a speeding person from his right that made him fall . All he could see was pile of papers flying in the air and gracefully settling on the ground. As all the papers settled down what he saw was nothing short of an Angel.
She too had fallen down due to the impact. She was wearing mint green salwar kameez with bright yellow dupatta . Due to the fall her duppata spread from her neck to hand. Her beautiful black hair had fallen on one side of her glowing face . The other side of her face showed her beautiful dark brown eyes and small pink lips that looked more like a rose petal. Her straight nose tip was red due to confusion and anger.
She got up and started staring at Akshat and asking an explanation, but he could just see her action and not hear a thing she was saying .
Her voice slowly crept in and he immediately came to his senses and apologized for the accident even though it was her fault. He immediately started collecting all the papers while the girl swiveled her hair back and adjusted her dress. After collecting all the papers he gave it to her.
“Once again I apologize for the accident, it wasn’t intentional , I swear ” Said Akshat with a soft apologetic tone.
The girl although was angry at first , but calmed down looking at Akshat and his impeccable communication skills and deep apologetic voice.
“Its OK .. Happens ” Said the girl and gave a smile that almost made Akshat faint . She turned and left with the same smile on her face , while Akshat was still standing and contemplating her beauty. He had never seen anyone like her.
“What a lovely day ” said Akshat with a broad smile .
Chapter 2
“Hey Aksh … Why are you smiling ? ” asked bewildered john flashing the torch on Akshat’s smiling face. It was 3 am in the night and they were robbing another bungalow in the posh locality of Paud Road.
“I am smiling ? I am not smiling ” said Akshat with an even broader smile.
“Azim, whats wrong with him ? is he high or something ? why the fuck is he smiling ? Is there an internal joke going on ? ” said John in a loud whispering tone to Azim with his uni-brow forming a wave of fury.
“No idea man . He has been acting weird since morning. He had been to that college in the morning . Maybe he got hold of some Ganja there. I heard there is a free flow of it in Symensis College ” said Azim with scholarly confidence on his face. “Ya right. I forgot that your Dad’s an Alumni of that college. Lets get back to robbing the house . shall we ? ” Said John realizing he asked the wrong question to the wrong person.
Morning 11 am
“Now, how to find out that girl ? I don’t even know her name . All I know is her face. If only faces could reveal names .” Akshat thinking to himself while entering the college gate . His eyes were wandering around scanning each and every girl in the campus , desperately looking for a match.
“Hey , careful dude. ” came a scream from behind Akshat. While walking a bit in reverse to see a face of girl he had accidentally bumped into a student.
“Sorry man. I apologize” said Akshat realizing his mistake.
“That’s Ok. Are you a fresher here. You look like you are lost just like me. ” Said Vinod while calibrating his black framed spectacles which eclipsed half of his face. He was short guy with black hair neatly combed to the sides. He fit exactly into the stereotype of a nerd.
“Ya man. I am new here . My name is Akshat ” said Akshat while extending his hand towards Vinod. Vinod smiled and reciprocated . He was relieved that he was not the only fresher in this college.
“Come. I know where the classroom is ”
“Actually .. I .. ”
Before Akshat could say anything Vinod grabbed his hand and dragged him to the class which was just a block away.
“I am doomed ” said Akshat to himself realizing he would be officially entering a classroom which is sure to get him caught. Before he knew he was inside facing around 60 odd students who were settling in. Most of them were excited as well as nervous as it was their first day. A group of students looked calm than the rest . They seemed to be from the same college.
Akshat was looking at students while Vinod continued dragging him to a vacant bench on the 3rd row.
Akshat sat and immediately started sliding backwards just to make sure he was not easily visible.
But suddenly he saw a familiar face entering . It was the girl.
Akshat almost stopped breathing and rose from his position automatically to have a good look. Vinod looked at Akshat standing and he too got up thinking the Professor entered the college. The entire class was sitting and only these two were standing.
The girl entered the class along with her friend and started heading towards a bench when she noticed the two boys standing .
Akshat was unintentionally staring at her while Vinod was looking confused.
She stared back at Akshat which made him realized his mistake, he immediately sat down leaving only Vinod standing . Vinod was still confused but followed Akshat and started sitting down. At the same time the professor entered the classroom hence the entire class rose except Vinod. Confused he gave up the idea of standing up again.
” Good Morning students ” said the professor. He expected a unanimous reciprocation of the greeting , instead received the greetings in varying tone and speed.
The Professor smiled at the sound of the greeting and told everyone to sit down. Vinod was already sitting down.
The professor was a bald guy with salt and pepper colored mustache that completely covered his upper lips. His nose was prominent and huge in size while his eyes were surrounded by black circle. He started arranging his notes and chalks on the table while students were eagerly awaiting in silence to hear him.
” Welcome to Symensis College. My name is Ravindra Shastri , I am your English teacher. Before starting my lecture, I would like to have an introduction from you. So one by one each one of you will stand, tell the class your name, family members and your dreams and aspirations. Is that OK ? ”
“Yes Sir ” the class responded in a bleak timid voice while looking at each other. A student sitting on the first bench was so horrified that he had gone pale as he realized he was the one to start the introduction. As he looked back he saw the entire class staring at him as if he was the the one to lead the crucification. He instead started staring at the ground. After 2 minutes of awkward silence the professor pointed his finger to the same student. Realizing now there was nowhere else to hide, he slowly rose .
” My name is Harish Jadhav, two brothers , one father , one mother . Want to be engineer. Jai Hind ”
The entire class started giggling as he ended his sentence with a slogan. Even the professor found it hard to control his laughter. To avoid further embarrassment he signaled the student to sit down and pointed to the other student to continue.
Everyone started introducing themselves one by one . Most of their voice was not even audible to any one barring few students sitting besides them.
Akshat was eagerly waiting for the girl’s turn to speak as he would finally know her name.
The girl too was very nervous . She rose to speak when her voice got muddled with huge cacophony of Train horn . No one could hear anything. Akshat was disappointed. Some students saw this as their golden opportunity and immediately starting introducing them as fast as possible.
The Train passed and silence prevailed again in the classroom.
It was Vinod’s turn now.
“Hello all , Hello Sir . My name is Vinod Awasthi , My dad works in BSNL, Mom is a home maker . I am very passionate about computers and electronics and I want to be a research scientist . Thank you ”
This was by far the most decent introduction given by any student. It was now Akshat’s turn to speak. He knew it was a very risky thing to do but he didn’t have any option.
He rose to speak.
“Good morning Sir and fellow students. My name is Akshat Jadhav . My dad is into import export business and my mom is a homemaker which I believe is the most important and most tedious job in the world. I was born and brought up in Pune and I am proud of this fact. Pune as you all know is called as the Oxford of India. It has one of the best colleges in India. Pune is also a cultural heritage. We had one of the great leaders who hailed from Pune like Bal Gangadhar Tilak . We even have the legendary Shanivar Wada of the Great Maratha’s as well the Sinhagad Fort that reminds us of the rich history that we have. I still don’t know what I want become in my life but I am sure my Pune will show me a way. Thank you “
The entire class was in awe at what they just witnessed. Such impeccable English , such fearlessness and confident speech. All them immediately started applauding . Even the Professor joined them .
“Akshat , Good to have you here. And students that’s how you introduce yourself ”
Akshat felt like he had become a celebrity, it reflected on his face.
The class bell rang !!
The Professor concluded his lecture and started leaving, followed by students. Akshat too started hurrying to get out because of the risk. When he stepped out of the classroom door he saw the girl standing with her friends . As she saw him she smiled
“Loved your speech. Hi .. My Name is Priya ” She extended her slender hand towards Akshat . Her hand was covered in Mehandi which was brick red in color which further exemplified the beauty of it.
“Thanks , My name is Akshat ” said Akshat with a broad smile and twinkle in his eyes
“We know your name . Your speech .. remember ” laughed Priya . Akshat blushed. Her friends started to leave and called her to join.
“So I will see you tomorrow . Bye Akshat ” She waved and started to leave
“Sure , Bye Priya ” Akshat responded back still retaining that smile and twinkle.
He stood at the same place contemplating what just happened. He kept staring his right hand while rubbing his fingers trying to relive the touch .
“Priya .. What a beautiful name ”
Chapter 3
“Are you serious ? You are going to the college again ? ” asked baffled John who was looking at Akshat . Akshat oblivious of it was looking at himself in the mirror that was dangling on the wall while fiddling with his shirt . Once convinced he smiled at himself and gazed at John through the mirror. They were all sitting in Akshat’s tiny home . Azim was sitting on the floor and adoring Akshat as he was getting ready.
“Jealous, are we ?” said Akshat concluding the sentence with a laugh which was joined by Azim.
John turned his gaze from Akshat to Azim. Azim’s laugh immediately vanished and he started to look at the roof to avoid eye contact
“Why would I be jealous ? I am not interested in that stupid college. Why study ? what’s the point? My neighbor Harish, is a graduate and still jobless. I earn more than him even though he is 5 years elder than me ” John was speaking with pride in his tone and his chin up.
“Yes John, you are the future Dhirubhai Ambani of Naravi ” said Akshat and started laughing with Azim joining him. John had a stern look at first but he too joined them.
“Even I didn’t think much about college till now. But now looking at the overall atmosphere of the college, I want to spend more and more time there. ”
“Ya the atmosphere named Priya ” said Azim looking at John and both started giggling when Akshat started chasing Azim for the comment.
“You are dead Azim ” said Akshat while chasing him with a blush on face hearing Priya’s name
“But seriously Aksh .. how long do you think this will last . One or the other day the cat will be out of the bag. You know the truth, people like us don’t belong to that college or that society. If the students get to know the reality,they would ask the college authorities to throw you out , or worse they might even hand you over to the police” Said John with an emphatic voice while continuing his gaze on Akshat who was running in circles behind Azim. Akshat abruptly stopped as John made him aware of his dreams that were made up of glass. His face turned pale thinking of the grim reality which he had ignored for last couple of days. He almost believed that the dream he had woven around himself was indeed a reality. John’s remark ripped the blindfold off making the light unbearable for his eyes that were accustomed to the cozy darkness.
“I don’t know John. I wish this was the reality. That I am going to a college and studying. That I can dream of a life with Priya . You know I got a standing ovation yesterday when I introduced myself in front of the class including the class teacher. I felt so happy. For the first time in my life , I felt good . Do you understand what that means? ”
“Yes Aksh”
“No you don’t . I am a slum dweller who robs in the night and works as a guide during the day with no formal education whatsoever. I am the unfortunate kid who has taken responsibility of taking care of his mother from the age of 10 because his dad one day decided to leave everything and go. I got a standing ovation from the kids who are so fortunate that they have both their parents to take care of . They don’t need to worry about food or clothing and have been getting the best education for so many years.” Paused Akshat with his eyes welling up looking directly at John.
” So I know I am good. I know I can do better that just being a slum kid and I so wish my condition were better so that I would go to college rather that support my Mom ” said Akshat disappointingly while tears trickled down his cheeks .
John and Azim stormed towards Akshat and hugged him with tears in their eyes as well
” I am sorry Aksh. ” Said John while hugging Akshat from left side ” I didn’t mean to hurt you. In fact I don’t want to see you hurt when the reality hits you in a bad way. I am concerned for that. ”
“I know John. I know I might eventually get destroyed but I would rather enjoy these fleeting moments of joy than just fear about the future and do nothing . I just want to be in present and enjoy. Whatever the future holds , I will face it. ”
11 am
“OH NO !”
Akshat mumbled at what he saw near the College gate . All the students were entering the college in a queue while two security guards were checking the identity card of each and every student before letting them in . The college gate was a huge structure made of iron that was painted blue but time had taken a toll on it and most of the blue had turned brownish due to the corrosion. Until today the gate was open completely which gave an unprecedented access to the college . Even two cars could enter simultaneously through the open gate without any hassle.
But today the gate was closed and there were two smaller entrances that were carved out of the same gate , it was like a mini gate through which only one person could enter at a time.
“I think my free run is done here ” Akshat said to himself while dropping his head down in disappointment . He turned his back to the gate and started returning when he saw a pair of familiar looking sneakers in front of him. He looked up to find Vinod in front of him grinning . “Hey Akshat , What happened ? We have a lecture that’s going to start in 15 min . Come lets go ”
“You go ahead Vinod . I will catch you in sometime.”
“I can wait with you if you want”
“No man , you go ahead. I just need to run some errand that i just remembered.”
“Ok. But don,t be late .”
Akshat nodded in approval while Vinod went ahead towards the college. When Akshat glanced back to make sure Vinod had left, he saw Priya entering through a gate in pristine white Salwar Kameez with glittering silver high heels . She had matched her accessories too with her shoes – Silver bangles and silver extra large circular earrings. Her natural pink lips were further exemplified by lip gloss that looked very similar to a strawberry wrapped in plastic.
“Angel ” whispered Akshat looking at her .
“I have to get inside today at any cost. ” said Akshat desperately racking his brain thinking of a way to get inside . That’s when he saw a student standing on his extreme left. The student was busy talking on a phone while his id card was dangling from his back pocket of his jeans like a pendulum .”Well that’s a low hanging fruit for a robber like me” said Akshat and started pacing rapidly towards the student. His eyes were glued to the id card. As he reached extremely close to the student he casually bumped into the student , the bump was in synonym with his hand catching hold of the id card.
“Sorry ” Akshat whispered to the student who stared at him for a second, then continued his chat on phone.
He looked at the card . It said Manish Mehta with his details and signature. On the left hand side was the student’s photo which was in black and white . Akshat peeled off the photograph and put the I-Card back in the plastic cover.
“God , be with me ” Whispered Akshat looking at the blue sky and headed towards the gate.
As he was approaching , all the worst outcomes were playing in his head that would happen in case he gets caught.
He stood in line behind 3 students .Each and every step he was taking felt like a life time.
The security guard had a blank face and was looking at each and every student like they were suicide bombers going to blow up the college.
“Manish Mehta ? ” roared the guard while scanning Akshat visually . As he saw the photo box empty his eyebrows curved in suspicion forming almost a question mark. Before he could speak anything Akshat started speaking.
“Sorry sir, I have somehow misplaced the photo in the I-card. I will make sure to get that tomorrow along with the signature of principal.Is it fine ? ”
The Guard suspicion mellowed down hearing the fluent English from Akshat. He gave the I-card back and signaled him to go ahead.
” I think God’s second name is English ” mumbled Akshat with smile in his face and a sense of relief and achievement.
“Time to get a glimpse of my Angel ” said Akshat with a glow on his face and paced towards the classroom.
Chapter 4
“So 14th feb is just 2 days away ” Said Samata with a naughty smile on her face . She was Priya’s best friend. She was fair but short and plum just like a musk melon. She was hyper-excited about most of the things and being a teenager Valentine day was the summit of her excitement. As any teenager she loved attention and luckily she used to get it on a daily basis thanks to Priya. But she was so naive that she mistook those attention to be genuine ones when in fact it was just a lip service. Priya too didn’t mind Samata getting the attention as Samata acted as a filter to weed off most guys.
“I am going out of town with my family today. I will be back only on 14th Feb ” said Priya who was sitting beside Samata in a circle which was completed by Vinod , Akshat and Priyesh. They were sitting below a huge banyan tree which was situated at the extreme end of the college.
“You don’t need any plan Priya, People make plan for you. All you do is reject , reject , reject.. ” Priyesh said this while emulating Priya’s expression when she rejects . Everyone including Priya started laughing.
“What are your plans Akshat . Planning to propose anyone ? ” Asked Samata while glancing at Priya. Akshat was surprised and embarrassed by the question.
“Its been 3 days I have been to this college and you expect me to propose someone. I have no plans of getting slapped in the face. Thank you ” said Akshat while rubbing the back of his head with a blush on his face. His hairs that were combed back started sliding forward the way sand slides in the desert. He was trying hard not to look at Priya while answering the question.
“You have known some girls in these 2 days… ” teased Priya while giggling and looking at Samata who too joined her .
Priyesh looked at Akshat and rolled his eyes from him to Priya and winked.
Akshat rotated his head horizontally signalling Priyesh to stop.
“But you do like her. don’t you ? ” Priyesh was probing Akshat along with Vinod. The girls had left for home.
“Everyone likes her Priyesh. You know that .” Said Akshat ridiculing the stupid question he had asked.
“But she seems to like you. And trust me that is super rare . At least I haven’t seen her looking at anyone the way she looks at you.”
“Yes Akshat. Even I have noticed that.” whispered Vinod while calibrating his spectacles for no apparent reason.
“Guys , where are you going with this ?” asked Akshat sensing they are coming around to suggest something.
Priyesh and Vinod looked at each other with disappointment.
“14th is the Valentine day dude. If you like her which we know you do, use the opportunity to express your love to her ”
“Are you guys out of your mind? ” screamed Akshat in horror of just imagining him proposing Priya and she breaking his heart in million pieces.
“Think about it dude. You like her, she seems to like you …. At least that’s what we think . Don’t you want to be together , don’t you want to explore the possibilities. Tomorrow because you didn’t have the balls to approach her and some other dude proposes her , wouldn’t you be mad for not giving it a try ? Girl like her gets proposal every single day. Cease the opportunity man .”
“Yes Akshat . You should take the opportunity. You have 2 days, think about it. ” added Vinod.
“Fine , although what you are suggesting is ridiculous I will think about it . Now can we move on from the topic?”
Every one started laughing.
3 am
“Aksh .. where are you lost ?” Asked John looking at Akshat who was staring in blank space and whispering something while John was telling him and Azim the robbery plan.
“Nowhere ” Akshat jolted back hearing John’s comment
“Are you sure ? You have a weird look on your face. I mean you have been acting weird for last couple of days, but today you look different kind of weird .”
“I am fine. Can we get on with the job ?” said Akshat in an irritating tone
John rolled his eyes and continued explaining the plan.
“The family has gone outstation for 2 days, so pretty clear. Affluent family, hence it can be a jackpot.”
Akshat eyes widened as he realized this robbery can solve his valentine day issue.
All of them climbed through the pipes , starting with Azim , John and Akshat. Azim continued climbing on the top to reach the terrace of the white painted bungalow while John and Akshat went halfway through the pipe and then jumped sideways to reach the balcony of the bungalow that was just in the middle .
The balcony was well decorated with flowers on the sides and beautiful lights hanging from the top . The middle area had a small wooden round table with 2 fold able wooden chairs placed opposite to each other . There was a bonsai placed in the middle of the table which shined in the moonlight.
Akshat kept looking at the Bonsai while John was sliding a thin metallic strip through the balcony door to open it up.
“Click ”
John’s was elated with the sweet sound and looked at Akshat only to find him lost again staring at the bonsai.
“Lets go ” Whispered john while flashing the torch on his face, grabbing his shirt and dragged him inside .
“The bedrooms that way. Go work your Magic.” John said directing him with his left hand. Akshat approached the bedroom walking on his toes . He started searching in the pitch black room that was illuminated only at the place where the torch light fell . He located the wardrobe and opened it up to search for a locker.
He smiled when he found one and started fiddling with it . He placed his ear on the locker to analyse the lock pattern while his hand was busy inserting a metal strip inside the keyhole.
“Click”
Akshat removed his ear from the locker and twisted its handle that opened gracefully.
Inside he found a gold chain , 3 stacks of cash and a small maroon colored ring box. When he flipped it open. He saw a beautiful gold ring that housed a blue colored diamond that looked like the the blue sky was captured in it.
The torch light reflecting through it formed a beautiful pattern spades on Akshat’s happy face.
“Perfect” whispered Akshat and with lightning speed he closed the box and slid it inside his jacket pocket . He collected the remaining items into the brownish bag he was carrying. As he turned back he saw John looking at him.
“So” Asked John with a mix of curiosity and doubtful expression covering his face.
Akshat was petrified as he was unaware what John had witnessed. His face went pale and a drop of sweat was born on his forehead that was growing rapidly in size only to trickle down.
“So what ?” Akshat replied a question with a question after gathering some courage.
“Did we get something ?” Asked John with the same expression.
Akshat was relieved to understand that John had no idea about the ring
“Yes. Good stuff . Gold chains, money etc ” whispered Akshat . Both of them had directed their torch towards the ceiling that lit the room gloomily.
“Awesome ” said excited John.
Morning 11 am
Akshat entered the college wearing a silky smooth black shirt with Blue jeans and white sneakers. He had combed his smooth thick black hair towards the back with help a hair-gel because of which they were shining like a blade of sword.
The look was further accentuated his jawline with sprinkles of facial hair on the sides. The college had a different feel that day. It felt like the atmosphere had been mixed with pink color. He could see girls carrying roses in their hand while blushing, he even saw some shredded roses on the road that screamed of the broken love. Many girls were ogling at Akshat , some were even planning to approach him when the time would be right.
With a pumping heart , Akshat was approaching his classroom . He occasionally checked his pocket to confirm the ring . He had planned to get on his knees and propose Priya as soon as he entered the classroom. Although he was petrified with the consequences and agony if Priya rejected him but the possibility of her affirmation was much more exciting than the other .
The atmosphere turned grim as he entered the classroom. Most of the girls were standing in an enclosed circle along with some boys.
He located Vinod and went to him
“What is happening ? ” asked Akshat
“Its Priya, she is upset . Didn’t get to speak to her .”
Akshat immediately rushed towards her. As he approached he started to hear Priya sobbing and talking to Samata
“What happened Priya ? Stop crying and tell me .” said Samata
Priya had buried her face in her palms and Samata was trying to get her out of it while encouraging her to speak.
Slowly the sobbing reduced and Priya gathered the courage to speak.
“My home was robbed yesterday. When we entered home, all valuables were stolen. Mom rushed to the bedroom to check the locker and as expected it was broken and all the jewelry and ornaments were gone. We lost everything, but the most valuable thing was the diamond ring which was my grandmother’s. It descended from my great grandfather who was a king. It had been with us for more than 100 years. Everyone is very upset. Mom has been crying since then and so am I . Why would anyone do such thing. Why do people steal. Such horrible people. “
Priya continued sobbing again.
Akshat froze like he was bitten by a snake . His eyes widened and it felt like he was losing control. His hands were searching for a place to land while his mind was in a tizzy unable to handle the information that just seeped in through his ears. It felt like someone had poured a molten lava in his ears.
“I knew I had seen that Bonsai plant somewhere ” said Akshat to himself while the moment flashed in front of his eyes when Priya had shown her the picture on phone.
“I don’t deserve this. I don’t deserve her. I am a bad person . I am a terrible person. I am a sinner . I am a demon.” mumbled Akshat while still taking each step back creeping closer towards the classroom door. Samata and Priya had not noticed Akshat’s presence .
Akshat looked up and saw confused Vinod looking at him .
” I need to leave ” said Akshat to himself as he pressed his hand against the ring box in his jeans pocket. He turned and rushed outside while he could hear Vinod screaming his name. He started running as fast as he can and soon had reached the College gate . He saw the guards in front and slowed his pace to avoid suspicion. The entire world was spinning in front of his eyes as if he was drugged and was hallucinating , he even felt like he would throw up anytime.
As he slowly exited the gate he heard a boy greeting a girl “Happy Valentines Day ”
Akshat ran to a corner and threw up.
Chapter 5
“Aunty, Where is Akshat ?” asked John and Azim who were puffing with their entire upper body moving like a harmonium.
Akshat’s Mom looked visibly tense but didn’t let any words spill out of her mouth. She just pointed her worn out finger towards the fragile looking terrace.
Both John and Azim sprinted towards the direction as if they were running an Olympic race.
It was evening time with the Chawl sounding as cacophonous as it can . The sun was setting down at it lay a beautiful orange red color on the otherwise ugly looking surrounding. As John & Azim reached the terrace which was barely keeping itself in one piece. You could see the years of onslaught of rain and heat on its body. Akshat was sitting at the far end of the terrace with his head buried among his tall legs. They had never seen Akshat in such state and were, in a way afraid to approach him as they didn’t knew what to expect of him. Azim being an ardent admirer of Akshat couldn’t bear to see his idol in such destitute condition. Even his eyes ballooned with water as he was trying to take as many small steps as possible to delay the tragedy that was about to unfold in front of his eyes.
John wanted to tap Akshat’s shoulder but couldn’t gather the courage to do so. He could even see the water stains around Akshat that looked a giant river had just dried up leaving the trails of its flow. But the stains were unlike anything John had ever seen before . He could feel the agony and sorrow that drove these waters from Akshat’s gentle eyes . It even felt that if Akshat was left in this condition he might completely melt away through these tears.
John just sat beside Akshat. Azim sat at a distance. He was looking away as if he was witnessing a murder. John saw Akshat’s head and back rising and falling very gently with occasional groan. John’s hand was in air but they were in a dilemma as to where would be the right place to touch, that wouldn’t accidentally crack the fragile boy. Finally he placed it gently on Akshat’s shoulder and like ripple effect the groan increased in volume along with the increase in body movement.
“What happened Akshat ? Why are you crying so much. Did some one say anything to you. Did the girl say anything ? Tell me ”
The questions flew in the air and vanished with no response.
“Akshat.. Please speak ”
Akshat’s head rose slowly and they could finally see his face but later regretted the decision . Akshat’s face was convoluted into a pale white color with his eyes blood shot and weary of crying for a long time. His forehead had the impression of the knee and his thick black hair looked like a rampage site with hair entangled at all places. His lips had gone dry like a barren land devoid of water for a very long time. As they started moving, words unwillingly started dropping out.
“The house we robbed yesterday. It was Priya’s home .” Akshat’s voice cracked and he couldn’t continue speaking and tears started their pilgrimage again.
John and Azim’s face went from concern to shock to guilt to embarrassment . John head went blank as he was not prepared for this kind of revelation. Azim too started staring at the sky trying to grasp the irony of that sentence.
“The sins that I have done till now was paid back with interest today. I knew my dreams were fragile but never imagined they would crack and spill like this. I hate everything about myself and my life .”
Akshat continued with a blank face and hollow eyes.
“I never knew that heartache is so painful and gut wrenching. I have fallen a thousand times and broken my bones I don’t how many times, but now those pain feel like a pinch in front of this. This pain , its like my heart was ripped out and immersed in a bowl of needles.”
John and Azim had no word that could console Akshat nor they wanted to attempt anything that might further accentuate the situation. They rubbed his back and shoulder consoling him physically.
12 am
The sky was wrapped in a thick black blanket with stars looking like the holes in them . The Moon too was full and reflected its shiny white light. These stars and moons reflected flawlessly in Akshat eyes like mirror. He was laying down on the terrace with his hands wrapping his head from behind . He was deep in thoughts and physically drained. Suddenly something sparked in his head and he stood up , paused for a moment and went down. It was pitch black inside his home and his mom was asleep . He fiddled in the dark itself to find his clothes and after a lot of struggle he got it . He was walking on his toes and gently opened the flimsy door and stormed out.
As he was walking through the narrow lanes of the chawl which was mostly dark with occasional yellow light from the light pole situated far away on the road. The only reason it penetrated this far was because of its height. Akshat was walking fast with a ring box clenched in one hand and face mask in his other hand.
He soon reached the bungalow,
PRIYA’S BUNGALOW
“Am I doing the right thing ? What if I get caught ? ” Akshat’s head filled with anxiety and got mixed with these questions.
But then he decided to go ahead and started climbing through the pipes. Although it was dark and quiet Akshat knew people were present and he could get caught in case he makes any wrong moves. He drifted horizontally towards the balcony just like last time.
As he jumped onto balcony , he saw the Bonsai plant on the table. All the memories and pain flashed back and Akshat stood there frozen. But he quickly gathered himself .
At first he thought of opening the balcony door and entering inside to keep the ring box on the table, but then it seemed way too risky and stupid. Its was anyways risky to be on the balcony as well. So with a deep breath he took the ring box out of his pocket.
Before keeping it on the table beside the Bonsai tree which was again shining in the moonlight looking calm and composed as ever, he flipped it open and took a final look.
As he opened the box, the Moon kissed the ring with its light and each cut reflected it in a synchronous fashion. He then kept it on the table. As he got up to leave he realized a presence behind him.
It was Priya !!
She was wearing a beautiful pink night dress and was holding the half opened curtains on one side . Priya froze and her eye widened . Her mind had gone numb as she was in shock, fear and confusion at what she had just seen.
Akshat too was taken aback by what he saw and went blank.
The girl of his dream , the love of his life .. looking as mesmerizing as ever and here he was .. a robber standing in front of her. Any moment she would be screaming , waking the entire family and neighbors and he would be handed over to the police.
But suddenly Akshat touched his face and realized that he was wearing the mask… a tiny relief in the storm that was about to rip him off.
Priya although in shock , saw the ring box on the table.
Akshat wanted to speak up but he knew if he did that it’s just going to be worse . So he took both his hands towards his ears and held it, which signaled that he was sorry .
Priya was still in confusion but decided to observe when she saw the action.
Akshat again signaled with his hands pointing outside that he was leaving and then laid a finger on his lips requesting her not to shout.
Priya nodded her head in approval (Even she didn’t knew why she did it )
Akshat took one last look at her.. and then jumped out of the balcony grabbing the pipe and slid down vanishing in darkness .
Priya then alarmed her parents who woke up and were happy as well as concerned that the robber had entered their home again . Priya’s mom took the ring box and checked it with a widest smile that Priya had seen till now .
Priya didn’t reveal any details about the event and pretended that she saw only the ring box.
But she was curious about those eyes she had just seen through the black mask and the way it looked at her.
“I have seen those gentle eyes somewhere ” Priya said to herself while mentally matching those eyes with each and every person she knew.
“Was it Aks.. No way … that can’t be ” Priya shook her head, mentally rejecting her thought.
“I will anyways check when I meet him tomorrow. I will also ask him why did he leave yesterday without meeting me. ”
Akshat stopped at John place and was panting hard because of the long run.
John immediately opened the doors and was glad to see Akshat with a smiling face.
“Why are you panting ? and why are you smiling ? where were you ? ”
John flung multiple questions at Akshat who was still panting while his hands were on his knees . Once he settled down he spoke
“Of all the wrong things I have done till now, today I did something good . It felt so good John and I want to continue to do that. ” Akshat paused in between and handed the face mask to John.
“I am done running with this mask and doing wrong things. I will work harder and make ends meet. Also I want to study and I will do whatever it takes to get into that. ”
“But do you think doing these things will help you get to Priya ?” John reverted back
Akshat smiled
” Priya is like the moon that you see in the sky . Beautiful, but so far away from my reach. It will be painful for me to be away from her, not seeing her and I am definitely not going forget her my entire life. But I am grateful for all that happened in last couple of days.
If I hadn’t seen her that day , I would have never gone to the college again. And if we hadn’t been to her house last night I would have never realized the gravity of my horrible acts. It opened my eyes and propelled me to choose a better path.”
“Priya is the reason I am choosing the path of honesty & happiness. I don’t know if we would meet or see each other again in the future, but nevertheless ….
She will always be my ROGUE LOVE ”
