P: Aaaahhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!😱😰

She sat upright.It took her a while to realize it was a dream.Calming herself,Priya picked the photo frame on the bedside table and stared at it.

Hugging the frame,

P: I know my Vicky wouldn't do such a thing...he loves me a lot...but...what if she seduced him??Oh no!😭😭😭

***

Vicky got up early.Seeing Meenakshi still asleep,he went and changed the tyre.

V: Ms.Fish,wakey...wakey!Time to leave!

At that time,Jalsa Kishore,Priya's uncle passed by.He slowed down seeing the car.

JK: This is Priya's car...why is it here??

He spotted Vicky standing outside the hut.Getting off his scooter,he hid behind a tree to spy on Vicky.

JK: Abboo...which mountain did he carry that he is flexing his arms??😯

Meenakshi's hand extended out of the hut passing him his shirt.He took it and wore.

JK: A hand...that too a girl's hand passing him his shirt?Something is amiss...Mmm...

Meenakshi stepped out of the hut.

JK: Vammo!This girl...she's Priya's friend na....what is he doing with him??Ohoo...marriage with Priya,jalsaa with this girl ah?They are trying to trick this Jalsa Kishore with their jalsaas...Mmm....I won't leave this matter!!

V: Shall we go ?

M: Yup...

The path back to the main road was wet.Meenakshi lost her balance and slipped but Vicky was quick and caught her by her waist thus saving her from a fall.

JK: Ahaa!!What a scene!!Jalsa started I have to capture this!!

He snapped their photos.

V: Are you okay ??

M: Yeah I am fine.

He offered his palm for her to hold.

M: No no it's ok..I can manage...

V: And slip for the second time ? Come on Ms.Fish....

She held his hand and he walked her carefully back to the car.

JK: This is enough!Vicky...how much you irritated me...see my game now!

***

Vicky was driving.Meenakshi wanted to use a restroom badly but she felt shy to tell it to him.As if read her thoughts,he stopped at a petrol bunk.

V: There is a restroom.I'll wait for you here.

Once she returned,they resumed their journey.

M: Thanks a lot...how did you know?

V: It's no rocket science...We're humans and you hadn't gone since last night so when I saw the signboard for restroom I stopped.😊

M: 😊

He halted again infront of a tea shop.

V: Sorry Ms.Fish,I will not be able to drive further without tea...I am going to get myself one...do you want anything ??

M: Mmm...I could also do with one...

Vicky went to get tea but when he took out his wallet he realized there was no cash as he had given all to the baby.There was no atm around also.He had some coins just enough for one tea.

V: Here,tea for you.

She took the glass from him.

M: What about yourself ?

V: I had it there...

She brought the glass near her lip and paused.

M: You lie too well...

V: Huh..uh..no what did I lie ? Why should I lie..?

M: There are mirrors in this car.I saw you fumbling with your wallet and you only got one glass.That too you gave it to me.

He smiled sheepishly.

M: Pls drink this,you need it more than me.

V: No no you have it I'm fine.

M: We can share...

V: That sounds good.Ladies first.

Meenakshi raised the glass above her mouth to drink but the tea dribbled from the side.

M: Oops...

V: It's ok...you can drink from the rim.I won't mind.😅

She sipped a little and passed the remaining to him.He gulped it all down.Feeling refreshed,he drove at a tremendous speed without stopping anywhere.

***

They reached home and all were waiting for them.Maggie and her family too arrived.

All were relieved to see both of them safe.

P: Vicky!😰

Priya ran into his arms and he embraced her.She cried out of happiness on seeing him.

P: It's all my fault...I shouldn't have sent you...I'm so sorry...

V: It's ok jaanu...relax...

She shifted his shirt collar to check for bites or marks.He felt awkward when she did that infront of so many people and asked her through eyes what she was up to.

P: Huh...uh...no I was checking if you were hurt...😥

However Vicky knew what she was thinking but he didn't react.

V's mom: What happened Vicky??Where were you last night??

V: We both were returning after getting her bangles...

P's dad: Vicky,we can talk about all that later it's getting late for the muhurtam.

V's dad: Yes.Let him have shower and get dressed.

The bride and groom went to get ready for the wedding.Meenakshi wore a light green kanchipuram saree and her blouse was red in contrast to that.Her hair was braided and she adorned it with jasmine flowers.Her accessories were a set of chunky gold necklace with jhumkas,a simple waist chain and matching bangles.

Priya was getting dressed in her room.When Meenakshi went to help put on her earrings for her,Priya stopped her.

P: No need for your help.I have others to do it for me.You just stay away!😡

Her reply was so curt that Meenakshi was in tears.Not wanting to be there she came out of the room.

She was sitting aloof when Vicky saw her.

V: Hey Ms.Fish!

He approached her.

V: Wow!You look stunning!This colour suits you.😀

She gave a forced smile.

M: Thank you.

V: How do I look?Like a groom?😃

She nodded in response and looked away.He sensed something wrong.

V: Did Priya say anything?

M: No...not at all...

V: Then why are you here instead of being with her?

M: I just came out because there were too many people in the room.

V: Hmm...Maggie!Maggie!

He gestured her.Maggie went to them and he introduced her to Meenakshi as he did not want her to feel left out.

V: Maggie,they're calling me for the photos.I'll see you guys later.

Mg: You carry on Vicky,I'll be with her.

Maggie and Meenakshi continued talking.They got along well.Meanwhile Vicky and Priya posed for photos for their wedding album.

It was time for the rituals.Vicky was escorted to the dais by his cousin and brother-in-law.

Priya's dad asked Meenakshi and Maggie to accompany her to the stage but when Meenakshi stood beside Priya,she shot her a sharp look indicating her to move back.Meenakshi couldn't fathom why Priya's behaviour towards her changed overnight.She decided to remain calm and leave immediately after the wedding.She went and stood beside Vicky's parents.

Priya was made to sit beside Vicky and they exchanged smiles.The mangalsutra was taken around to be blessed by everyone.As the priest chanted the mantras,he handed the mangalsutra to Vicky and he got up to tie it around Priya's neck.

Suddenly,Jalsa Kishore came in running.

JK: Stop!Pls stop this!This marriage shouldn't take place!!!

Vicky paused.Everyone looked at JK.Priya's father alighted the stage.

P's dad: What is wrong with you??Why are you creating noise and making issue when an auspicious event is going on??

JK: Bava,that groom you have chosen for our Priya is a rogue!!See,I have proof!!

He showed him the photos of Vicky and Meenakshi which he took earlier.The photos were passed around and it reached Priya.

P: What is this Vicky?😡

V: This is nothing...I caught her from a fall and held her hand as the place was slippery.He has mistaken us.

JK: Oho...then why did she pass you your shirt from inside??You think I didn't see that??

P: Shirt ah??

JK: Yes ma!He was waiting outside a hut,that girl passed his shirt from inside.She came out after sometime.Something has happened between them.He is not the right one for you.

Meenakshi came forward.

M: Priya,don't get us wrong I can explain...

Priya raised her palm infront of her face.

P: Did you both stay together last night?

M: Yes we did but it's not like what you think...

Vicky intervened.

V: Priya,don't get angry.Listen to me with a calm mind...

He narrated the incident.

V: ...this is what happened...

JK clapped.

JK: Super story!Instead of making video games he can go as a writer.In which place has a thief admitted to theft??Anyone who is caught will give excuses only.Priya,I am telling you again this fella isn't good and so is that girl!

Meenakshi's eyes welled up.Vicky glared at JK who took cover behind P's dad.Priya looked at him in disbelief.

V: Pls jaanu...believe me...

He held her hand but she yanked it away.

P: Don't touch me!Stay away!😡

V: Priya!You are the one who sent us now if you yourself suspect us what are we to do?

P: Yes I sent you both trusting you.You should have been back by an hour or two but you only returned in the morning and now these photos and a person who has witnessed you together how else am I supposed to think?

Maggie voiced in Vicky's favour.

Mg: Priya,why are you speaking like this he loves you how would he do such a thing?

P: Yeah right...he loves me...that is why he called off our engagement,dated you then got bored and returned to me now he lost interest in me also and is after my friend.This is his pattern.I was the bloody fool who loved him blindly.

Mg's dad: Priya,if you had doubts about his character you could have refused him then itself why wait until now?

P: I love him sincerely.I trusted him and gave him a second chance hoping he would mend his ways who knew he would cheat behind my back?😏

Mg: Stop it!Based on photos and a person who saw them from afar how can you accuse him?Vicky is a gentleman.

P: Oh yes you are the apt person to vouch for his character.Touch your heart and say,he has never behaved with you romantically?Not even a kiss you both shared?

Maggie looked down feeling embarrassed.

P: How will you speak when you yourself cooperated with him?Decent it seems.Neither has he shame nor you!

Her words hurt Maggie and she started to weep.

Mg: Let's leave nanna...I don't want to be here.😭

Vicky hastened to stop them.

V: Uncle,pls stop...Maggie,I'm very sorry...I apologise to you both for her talks.Pls stay.

He joined his palms asking for forgiveness.

M's dad: No Vicky,that won't be right.I can't stay in a place where my daughter is humiliated.If this was someone else who said these words the scenario would have been different.It is for you that I am tolerating.Pls allow us to go...

Vicky stepped aside.Maggie and her family left the place.

V: Priya,what is wrong with you?Such a big person and you have humiliated him...When I told them I was in love with you,she understood and moved away graciously.Her family supported my decision.How could you speak that way to her and her family?

Priya rolled her eyes.

P: She's your ex na...that's why your blood is boiling when I told her off.

He cast his gaze downwards.Vicky's parents couldn't bear to see their son's head hung in shame.His mother walked up to Priya.

V's mom: Priya,I have not raised my son in a bad way.I know him he wouldn't do anything that would bring disgrace to me.Pls ma,forgo your anger and come...

P: Your son's true face has been exposed and you are supporting him?You also have a daughter,if something similar happened in her life would you call her to forget everything and come?

His mother sobbed unable to bear her taunts.

P: If I were you,I would have hanged myself for giving birth to a womanizer!You should be ashamed for raising a son who objectifies women.Chi!

V: Priya enough!There is a limit to everything!She is my mother you have no rights to talk like that to her.Apologise to her now!

P: Why should I?You will do the mistake and I have to apologize?If I had stayed with a guy for a night and returned in the morning would you accept me?

V: Of course I would!Because I love you and I trust you!

P: But I'm not able to have that kind of trust in you...

P's dad: Priya ma,the auspicious time is ticking away...we can talk later...come...

P: No way nanna!Even if this marriage doesn't take place and I have to remain single all my life I don't care...I cannot live my life with a pervert!

She started lashing out at everyone who came in support of Vicky.He was fuming inside but he reminded himself to be patient.He took a deep breath to calm himself and spoke,

V: Jaanu...please...all are watching us...we have spent so much for this wedding...it will be a humiliation for us if this gets called off at this point please Priya don't be stubborn.

P: They will attend the wedding and go I'm the one who has to suffer with you for the rest of my life no?

V: Ok...ok...what should I do to prove my innocence?

Priya thought for a moment.

P: You don't have to do anything...it is she who has to!

She said pointing at Meenakshi.

P: She has to undergo a medical test now to prove she is still a virgin.

All were stunned.Vicky felt disgusted and betrayed.He never imagined the woman he loved dearly could stoop so low.

P: Once I know she is clean,we can get married.

V: No need!If we have to get married at the cost of an innocent girl's tears,we rather not!

P's dad: What are you talking Priya?She's also a woman like you how could you speak like this?

P: Sorry nanna I've no other go.I cannot live with him with this doubt it my mind.

Priya's dad was about to rebuke her but was stopped by Vicky.

V: Maavayya,it's ok.She has decided not to listen to anyone.I have not erred.There will be a day when she realizes her mistake and understands me and my true love.I will wait for her until then.Amma,Nanna...let's go...

He removed his garland and kept it aside.Along with his parents Vicky stepped down the stage.

JK: What are you all watching?Marriage is cancelled,everyone leave this place...(mv:Hihihi finally got rid of that Vicky!)

Meenakshi turned to go inside when Priya called her.

P: Where are you going?I am not done with you!

Priya walked up to her friend.

P: So how was it being with him for one night?Enjoyed well?

M: Priya,mind your words!Time and again we're telling you we didn't do anything immoral yet you are hurting everyone young and old with your words.This is not right.You will feel sorry for all this one day.

P: You both are saying nothing happened but I can't believe until I check you.Come with me...

Meenakshi lost her cool and gave her a tight slap to shut her up.

M: Chi!You are an educated doctor but behaving like a barbarian?You were good how did you even change like this?How can you even think this way?Are you mad?

P: Keep it that way!Yes I am mad only!Why are you afraid if you are pure?Are you worried your good girl drama will come to an end?😡

M: I know who I am and I don't have to prove it to you or the world!😡

Meenakshi turned to leave but Priya caught her wrist in a tight grip.

M: What are you doing?Leave my hand Priya!😡

P: My marriage stopped because of you!You think I will leave it at that?I need to check you!Come with me...

Priya pulled Meenakshi when she felt a hand grab her wrist.

V: Leave her alone!😡

P: You stay away from this!Why does it ache for you if she is put to test?She is not your wife right?😡

V: This is invasive and unethical!I don't have to be related to her to stop something wrong from happening.You have no right to violate her whatsoever.

P: Who are you to say that?She is my friend,not anyone to you!I will do what I wish!I know how to make her agree to this!I don't need your approval!Move!

M: Priya,this is wrong!You can't do this!

She ignored the pleas and dragged Meenakshi.All tried to stop Priya but it went in vain.Her path was again blocked by Vicky.She gave him a mean look.

P: Won't it go to your brains if I say once?Again and again you are coming back...

Ignoring Priya,he went past her to Meenakshi.His firm gaze met her teary eyes.He brought the mangalsutra around her neck and tied three knots much to the aghast of Priya.

Seeing the mangalsutra meant for her hanging on Meenakshi's neck,Priya went mad.

P: Vicky!!!!!!!!!

V: Shut up!You wanted to know my relation with her right?She is my wife now and I dare you to touch her!😡

He snarled at Priya who stepped back in fear.Grasping Meenakshi's wrist,Vicky exited the place with his parents following them.Priya's world came to a standstill.

P: Vic...Vicky...

Unable to digest the scene that took place before her eyes,mumbling his name,Priya fainted.

***

Vicky was standing aloof at the balcony of his house ruminating over the events.

His parents came there.

V's dad: Vicky...

He turned.Unable to see them in the eyes,he averted his gaze.

V: I'm sorry...I've caused you both disgrace.😔

His mother went near him and lifted his chin.

V's mom: No,don't think that way.We were disgraced by that Priya it is you who saved our face.Is she even a woman?What a foul mouth and cheap mentality she has.Never knew she was this bad.We tried to ruin your life by getting you married to her thankfully god is on our side.He saved you in the nick of time!

His father placed his hand on her shoulder to stop her rants.Looking at Vicky,

V's dad: Are you thinking about Priya?

Vicky shook his head no.

V's dad: Then ?

V: Without getting Meenakshi's approval I took this step.What will be her state of mind?She trusted me as a genuine person and I have wronged her.I feel so guilty.

V's dad: Your concern is fair.Meenakshi is a matured girl.I'm sure she would have understood you and your actions.Put aside your worries and talk to her.Everything will be fine.

***

Vicky was in his room,seated on his flower decorated bed.A strand of jasmine flower dangled infront of his face irritating him.

V: This was one thing less.What use is headphones for deaf ears?😒

He heard the click of the door and straightened his body.Meenakshi entered the room.

Vicky felt nervous about facing her so he stared at the floor.Standing before him,she cleared her throat.In a sweet voice,

M: Can you please stand up for a moment?

He was surprised that she called him with respect like how wives address their husbands.

V mv: Why she wants me to...huh...maybe she wants to fall at my feet for saving her.

He got up and stood.

V: You don't have to touch my feet for all this...I...

Before he could complete his sentence,

SLAP!👋🏼

There was a resonating sound in his ears and he placed his hand on his cheek.He couldn't believe she just slapped him.

V: Meenakshi...😳

M: Shut up!I'll slit your tongue if you take my name once more!😡

She roared and he gulped hard.

M: Who the hell gave you the permission to tie this around my neck?Am I some lifeless property owned by you?

V: To save your honour only...

M: Your head!I was not surrounded by hooligans like the other day so what was there for you to save me?I myself would have thrashed her if she tried to do anything funny to me.For you to display your heroism and save your face,I had to be your sacrificial goat eh?

V: Huh...no...it's not that...at that moment I could only think of this way.She was also going overboard so I...

M: Don't talk!Marriage is a one time event in a girl's life.How many dreams I would have had about my big day?In one second you shattered it all!!What will I tell my parents?That I attended my friend's wedding but ended up getting her mangalsutra tied around my neck that too by her groom?I shudder to think what would happen if I said this...what were you even thinking?

V: To prove her wrong I...mmm...

M: What you have done is no different from what she accused us of.Infact you have only proved her allegations right by your stupid deed!She is one crack case,you are one nut case!Getting caught between you two now my life is in limbo!😤

Tired of her rants,she gulped water from the bottle as he continued watching her.Rubbing her mouth with the back of her palm she resumed her lecture with full vigour.Vicky waited patiently for her to finish.

She held the mangalsutra rope in between her fingers.

M: Now what?Because of this I have to live with you?

V: Not necessary.If you don't want tonight it's ok,I can sleep on the floor also...

She pulled the rope which snapped and hurled it on his face.

M: What happened today is not a marriage.A union without the consent of the bride is invalid and I don't need to abide to this!

He stood dumbfounded.She went to the bathroom and changed into her casual clothes.Once she was out,

M: Mr.Vicky,I am leaving.I never want to meet you again ever in this life!

Dragging her suitcase she barged out of his room.

V:Meenakshi!..huh..uh..Mrs.Fish!..chi...Ms.Fish!I'm sorry...please listen!!

He went after her.His dad was in the hall.Seeing him,she stopped.

V's dad: Meenakshi,where are you going at this hour ma?

M: Uncle,whatever happened today is a nightmare.That is what I want to believe.I can't stay here even a minute longer.There is a night bus to my place so I'm leaving.

His dad saw the mangalsutra in Vicky's hand and looked at Meenakshi.

V's dad: You have every right to decide your life.We won't stop you but my concern is it's late and unsafe for you to travel alone since you're unfamiliar with this place.Stay here for the night.You can leave in the morning.

M: I'm sorry uncle but I need to go now itself.Being here every second I feel as if my whole body is burning in fire.I'll take your leave.

Touching his dad's feet,she walked off without turning to look at Vicky.

To be continued...