F.R.I.E.N.D.S

The next few weeks flew past. She was bowled over by Adi’s natural zest, limitless enthusiasm and for him She was his staunchest ally, anchor, his confidante. They understood each other perfectly even when they disagreed. Together they would plan out strategies to be nearer to the goal. Days of fun, happiness and at times frustration yet the feeling that they were with each other was hugely comforting.

Mira stared at her in aghast as Neha smiled & said “I am not taking up this project now.“ Mira had seen Neha brooding and now she knew why.

"Why Neha, you guys are not even committed. Has Adi ever spoken about his feelings for you. Fine , he is a nice guy, he cares, he confides in you. Is that all the reason you need to chuck an offer that you have been waiting for ?”  She asked

“You are right Mira. He has never spoken about it. But this decision is not about him, its about me. I'm happy with him. I feel a deep sense of comfort to be a small part of his struggles and his journey to achieve his dream. And at times when I sense I am the reason for his smile even on his  low days, I feel good. He has given me wings to my passion .. to write ! I  don’t know what would happen in future but  right now I want to be with him, and I have made this choice .”  Neha seemed calm as she replied.

And what about the US project ?  Mira asked.” you worked really hard for it“

That will happen again Mira, I know If I am good , I will always get qualified for it again. But this moment, this time may not happen again . US project  is not going anywhere, but I am sure Adi will surely go places !! And I  don’t want to let go of this moment, this feeling, our journey together . “ Neha said.

What if once he achieves everything he wants, you may not be as important  to him as you are now. May be he just wants  a anchor to support him through these days? Then where does that leave you silly girl ?   Mira tried to dissuade her .

That would be his decision Mira. isn’t it ?  Do I need to think about it now?  Neha retorted.

“Any guy would be insane or hugely selfish if he chooses to lose you. It’s such a big decision Neha . Why for him ?

“700 billion people in the world, why do I have this feeling only for him, I have no clue .”  Neha looked at Mira , her eyes moist .

And are u gonna tell him about it?  Mira gave up .

“No“.  Neha  sounded firm. There is an upcoming event for which he needs to qualify. That’s gonna take him to the big league, don’t want to shift focus with these matters .

Mira didn’t seemed convinced and Neha was at her wits end to explain her the reason. There was an eerie silence as she picked up her bag and walked out of the room.  She wanted her time out alone for sometime. Her mind wandered to the serene Powai lake as she walked towards the place.

Adi was right, there is something magical about this place as she found herself a place to sit watching the lake, a slight drizzle made it look even more appealing . Moments, memories sped past her mind as she realized that this is the place where subconsciously she chose to be part of Adi's dream . Raindrops caressing her face, she smiled to herself and thought if it makes me happy and smile, my decision  has to be right .

Feeling light, as she was about to leave the place – she saw Adi and his friends – Suraj, Arif, Satish ….-  walking towards the  lake. Adi saw Neha and walked towards her. She looked lovelier , her face damp in the rain , seemed to glow.  As he came near her, she saw the warmth in his eyes, it was more deeper than the warmth of friendship .  He removed his windcheater and covered her with it as he said “ what are you doing here at this time in the rain ? “ as he offered to walk her back home .

It was a perfect moment – the slight drizzle, Adi holding her, his jacket on her, the lake – it was the most memorable walk of her life ! A deep sense of belonging and happiness as Adi dropped her at place and they looked at each other finding it reluctant to move away .Everyone and everything was silent except the cold breeze and the slight drizzle . He held her hand and pulled her closer.  He touched her lips gently with his fingers and then with his own lips. It was a perfect lock under the rain . She hugged him  and he hugged her tighter right back .A moment frozen in time and rain !

As she reached home, Neha was in a upbeat mood. Mira was busy warming up the dinner  as she walked up to her and said “ Mira, do you remember the days when we first shared this room and were staying away from our families for the first time ?  It was a difficult and sad time for me to adjust to the new life on my own all I had then and now is you . You cared for me when I was sad, cheered me up and gradually we became a soul mates. I know that my happiness matters to you. Mira, just as I need you in my life, I need Adi too !. Hope you understand. You both mean a lot to me and are a part of my life .

Mira silently heard her and walked up to her and hugged her and said “  If this is what you wish for , you will find me with you whatever your decision is , even if it is to give up the US project”

“Neha, you left your cell in my jacket “ it was Adi at door as both Mira & Neha turned to look at him startled ,

Did he hear our conversation … the thought flashed in their minds !!

Love like the rain-, let it drench you and  soak you with joy!!!!