A Wish Upon The Stars

*INTRODUCTION*

2013
Belonging to one of the richest families of Nainital and being the only daughter, Simi was treated no less than a princess, she had everything she wished for but still she was down-to-earth and believed in simple living. She had a dream, and that was to become a successful author someday.Her cute little friend was her little puddle Coco, she used to write poems and stories and would read them out to Coco. Behind that pretty face and that charming smile, was a story, a story she had kept in her heart and wanted it to be there forever, she cherished every bit of it, no matter how it went. She was going to get married soon, and that too to her best friend Vishal Thakur.
Vishal and Simi had known each other since they were born because of the good relations of their families. She was going to start a new life with Vishal soon, Vishal was never a stranger to her, they shared a special bond and now they would be married.
Isn't it awesome? marrying your best friend who understands every bit of you? Never restricts your dreams, holds you when fall, is a friend before a life partner, that was what Vishal was for Simi.

To know Simi's story, stay tuned. 



Part-1

~"When a girl is about to get married, she is both happy and sad, happy to start a new life and sad to leave her family and her house, where she had been since she was born."~

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Just three weeks were left and Simi was going to get married to Vishal. She didn't want to leave her family, her house, her room, her life as Ms. Simi Singh Rajput was about to change soon and she was going to become *Mrs. Simi Vishal Thakur*.
Vishal wasn't any stranger. If someone on this earth knew how Simi was, it was Vishal. They had this connection since they were two small kids. When Simi was sad, without even telling Vishal, he knew something was wrong. He would do anything to make her smile. Vishal was her Guardian Angel. Their parents knew that they were meant to be together. Even Simi knew it was right, if it came to marrying someone and spending the whole life together, there was no one other than Vishal she could be with.

It was 5 in the morning, she couldn't sleep. Her house, or say mansion was already decorated for the ceremonies that would be starting in a few days. Cards along with the sweets, shagun thalis would be seen in the hall. Her parents along with Vishal's family were busy preparing. Her room, which she called her space, would be left behind and her space would now be Vishal's room. His family would be her family. The carefree attitude, childish nature would now have to be of a responsible young man. Bracelets in her hand would soon change to bangles. Her identity would now be linked with Vishal. But she was ready, ready for everything.

She was surprised how a marriage would change everything. She wondered if that would change Vishal's behavior towards her, but she was sure this isn't possible. When their parents broke the news of their marriage, Vishal was the happiest person alive. And all these days he had been more caring and more loving. She knew he wouldn't let her compromise anything, he would help her in every stage. But this house, her family, her Coco, memories of this place where she spent half of her life were something she would be missing always.

She had a look at the clock. It was almost 7, she got ready and left for the railway station because her best friend, her cousin Samaira, her Samy was coming today. She was going to see her after 4 years because Samy shifted to USA. She couldn't have been happier. She called up the driver and let for Railway Station, Nainital.


Part-2

~"A sister is a gift to the heart, a friend to the spirit, a golden thread to the meaning of life."~

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It was almost 8, Samy's train was going to be there any moment. Her excitement was at its peak. Its been 4 years since she last saw her. Well there had always been long Skype talks, heart-to-heart conversations, but nothing like seeing them right next to each other.

She stood on Platform no. 3, the train from New Delhi was about to arrive. Cool wind was playing with the locks of her hair. And suddenly then a text flashed on her mobile screen, it was from Vishal.

It said, "Good Morning Simu. Have a good day ahead, Princess. Whenever you need me, I'm just a call away. And dad invited your family to our house tonight for dinner. Bring Samy along too." And a faint smile lighted up her face.

And she could now hear the train arriving. In a couple of seconds, the platform buzzed with people. She started looking for Samy. And she saw a slim, fair girl with rosy cheeks and jet black hair get down the train. Samy had always been the one with the crazy-streak, she believed in living life to the extreme. Simi had always envied her looks and her nature since she was a kid. And Samy saw her. She literally started shouting and attracted hoards of people towards herself.

"My Sim-Sim here you are. Its so nice to see you. You don't know how much I missed you and this place." And the sisters hugged each other tight. Samy was dancing with joy. Simi was glad to see that her sister hasn't changed one bit. She was still a kid at heart. She knew it, if she needed someone in her tough days, it would always be Samy.

On the way back home, they both didn't stop chattering for even a second. Simi couldn't have been happier. The girls had a look at their childhood pictures and shared a good laugh. It was evening now, Simi told Samy to get ready because they were going to Vishal's place for dinner. Samy was excited to meet her Vishal Jeeju.

Samy and Simi had been the closest since they were two little girls. And the same was till date. Samy wanted to see Simi's choice. Simi was happy with everything but the thought of leaving everyone back home was depressing her. Samy sensed that. She thought of talking about it to her after they have met Vishal. Also she wanted to know so much and tell Simi so much, she thought she would do it the next day. They both needed to catch up with their lives.

Everyone was ready. Simi's mom and dad, her elder brother Sameer and so was Samy. They reached Vishal's place. They were welcomed inside by Vishal's family. Nothing was formal between them as they had been friends since long. Samy was introduced to everyone. And then came Vishal, dressed in a crisp white shirt with brown trousers. He had the looks to die for.

Samy whispered in Simi's ear, "So this is Jeeju. Nice choice babes."

Vishal heard that and the three of them giggled. Vishal's eyes weren't leaving Simi's gaze for even a single second.


Part-3

~"The best relationship is the one where more than a partner,he is your best friend."~

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Everybody was enjoying the dinner. Talks about marriage preparations were in full swing. In another 20 days, Simi was going to call this house her new home. She was strangely happy with the fact that Vishal even changed some stuff of his room for her own comfort. She knew at that time, nobody could handle her other than Vishal. He could sacrifice anything when it came to her smile. Everybody was focused in preparing the best for their marriage. Vishal's dad said he had seen this day coming from since the day he saw these two little kids growing up together, fighting, caring and sharing everything, how they faced everything together in their teenage years and now as two individual young adults with the dreams they were ready to share. The friendship between the two families was now going to be a relationship bond with their marriage.

After the dinner was done, Vishal's mom suggested that Vishal and Simi should go have a walk in the garden. Vishal was no stranger to her but she was acting shy. Everybody started teasing them.

While they were out, talking about al the things, Vishal wanted to know the reason behind Simi's silence. She said she was nervous leaving everything behind and starting a new life. Vishal held her hand, it sent shivers down her spine. It was very unusual of him to hold her hand, but she was ready, ready to start a new life with him. If Vishal wouldn't have been there all this time, she might have had been rotting in depression. She owed her life to him. She might not have the same unconditional love Vishal had for her, but they had been inseparable since they were born. Vishal comforted her and understood her insecurities. He started reminding her of the old times, and somehow made her laugh. Vishal had a way with making her happy and he knew once they were married she would be happy with him.

Back home, Samy started teasing her about how Vishal's gaze didn't move for even a second.
And then Samy said, "I know you and Vishal have been forever friends, but when did love blossom? You never told me about it."

Simi said, "it isn't even exactly a love story. We both have gone through a rough patch. Vishal had been the biggest support i ever had in the darkest of my days. His love for me is unconditional, and i don't know how and why he could love me." She had tears in her eyes.

Samy was shocked to see her crying. She had no idea what rough patch she was talking about. She said, "Calm down Simu, ssshh, you need to tell me everything. Life is like this, things happen, Vishal really loves you, i could see that in his eyes and I'm sure he is ready to be with you no matter what happens."

Simi started, "It all started in 2005, class 11th. Vishal and me were in the same class. Vishal had gone to USA for two months and everybody thought we both are together. I didn't interact much with people, i used to be so lost in my novels and all. That was when it all started."

Part-4

~"It is said that the time spent during the teenage years is what defines your life ahead. All the secrets, experiences, heartbreaks, lessons, shape you up and affect your life at some point."~

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'2005-Flashback'

It was just a normal day at school. Simi didn't have many friends at school and Vishal was off to USA for sometime. Her days were spent engrossed in her novels and paintings. She didn't interact much with people. She never bothered to socialize much in the class even. She was happy in her small world.
People in the class used to think that she was in a relationship with Vishal and as he was gone, she might be missing him and that might be the reason she didn't interact much.

It was English class that day and the teacher came up with a random pop quiz on Literature and Novels. Now this was something in which Simi had a keen interest. She knew she could outshine others at this. She was ready with it.

The first question the teacher put up was, "Name a novel with supernatural atmosphere, it was of romantic goth genre with the theme that how jealousy can affect relationships and even an individual."
Simi knew the answer. It was easy.
"Wuthering Heights", said two voices in unison. One was of Simi and the other one was of a guy.
She turned back to see who it was, she couldn't figure it out.

The next question was, "This play was one of the most powerful and influential tragedies of all time in English literature by Shakespeare."
She thought for a minute. And before she could answer. The voice from the other end said, "Hamlet.
She was shocked. Who was it. It was someone she had never seen before in the class. She couldnt even recall seeing him before. But he sure was a tough competition. She was keen to know this guy now.

And the questions continued. That guy was winning. She knew the answers but took time to recall and before she could say it he had already told the answer. It was like a war between the two of them. She looked back again. He wasnt stopping. It was like he knew it all. She never knew someone in her class had the same interest in novels as her.

As the last question was put up, "Which novel published in 2004 had character names as Gerry and Holly and who wrote it?"
Simi was quick this time, "P.S. I Love You by Cecelia Ahern." And she looked back and smiled at that guy who gave her a thumbs up.

The teacher went as the class was over. She wanted to know who this guy was. She decided to go over to him. But before she got up, he was already there.

"Hey. You seem to have quite knowledge about Literature and Novels. I could see that you knew all the answers.", he said.

"Well that is something I have deep interest in. And I knew it, and so did you. Same pinch then.", Simi replied that guy with deep brown eyes.

"By the way I'm Shaan, just joined the school last week." ,forwarding his hand.
"Oh, that's why I couldnt recognise you. I'm Simi.", shaking hands.

"So I was wondering if you have 'P.S. I Love You' because I think I missed that. Can I borrow it?"

Shaan had moved to Nainital, his father's hometown from Delhi. He was a tall, confident guy, he had a cute face and his smile was the sweetest with a little dimple on his left cheek, he was a guy with high ambitions. Just like Simi, his interests lay in literature.


Part-5

~"Sometimes even though you meet for the first time, it sometimes seems as if you have known each other forever, like there is some sort of a connection deep in the heart."~

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With the same interests and sharing of books and their trivia about literature started a new bond : Friendship of Shaan and Simi. Simi had longed for a friend like him. Well Vishal had always been there, but when it came to her novels, Vishal used to be blank on that topic. He couldn't even think of a word about what to say but still he tagged along to what she said, even though at times he had no idea what the book is about or what she was saying.

Shaan and Simi had the same classes so they got a chance to know each other more. Their favorite used to be the English class. They had fun together. They could be seen together even during the break time. Simi was surprised how she never even looked around for a friend. Vishal was always there to complete her. But now it was something different. She had started developing feelings for Shaan but she just denied it. She didn't want to name the beautiful friendship she had shared with him. Not everyday she had people with the same interests around her!

That day during the English class the teacher gave them the details for a new project and they had to work in pairs. No doubt, Simi wanted Shaan to be her partner. And she knew he would ask her once the period gets over. She was giggling thinking about working together and wasn't paying attention to what was happening around.
The bell rang and the teacher went.

She was about to get up and go to Shaan who was siting in the parallel row when she saw him talking to Vedika.
Vedika was someone she didn't like since the very first day. She was jelaous of Simi. Simi and her father were competitors in business. She always wanted to be Vishal's eye candy but couldn't take the spot. She envied Simi's pretty yet simple look. Simi moved to Shaan's bench to hear what they were talking about.

Vedika said, "Hey Shaan. Why don't you be my partner for the project? It isn't bad having another friend than *Ms. So Lost In Her Own World* uh, i meant Simi." And she winked at Simi.

Simi's heart sank.

"Umm, but i guess my partner is Simi. I've already picked her. Sorry Vedika.", Shaan answered her.
Vedika made a puppy face.

"Its okay Shaan. You can team up with Vedika. We can pair up next time.", Simi said.

"But Simi i want to do this with you. I'm really sorry Vedika. Maybe next time.", Shaan gave an apologetical smile to her.

Vedika was furious this time. She had a thing for Shaan. Well she couldn't help it! Shaan's dimpled-smile and his perfect looks could make any girl go Ga-Ga over him. He was such a sweetheart.

"It's okay Shaan. I'll come next time. You would need me then. Because by the next time, Vishal would come back and Simi would forget that you even existed.", Vedika winked at him.

"Umm, Vishal? Who is he? And where is he? I haven't seen him around.", Shaan was clueless. And looked at Simi.

Simi said, "Vishal is my best friend since childhood. He was off to USA for 2 months but is coming back soon and,"

Vedika cut her mid-sentence. "Oh dear! Why are you hiding it from Shaan? Isn't there love blossoming between you and Vish?"

Shaan was shocked and disappointed, both at the same time. He asked Simi, "Is it so?"

Vedika said, "Well they don't tell anyone but let me tell you. Yes. This is how it is. You are just a time-pass till he is away. Oh! I'm getting late. I'll catch up with you later. Bye Shaan."
And Vedika went away.

Simi was in tears hearing what Vedika said. They were all white lies.
Shaan asked her, "Simi is it so?"
Simi said, "No Shaan." Her face was red and eyes were filled with tears.

"Don't cry Simi. I believe you. Tell me the truth no matter what it is.", Shaan wiped a tear which was trickling down her rosy cheeks.


Part-6

~"No matter what the truth is, say it to the people who matter to you if you want them by your side forever."~

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Shaan told Simi to calm down.
Once she was quiet he asked her about Vishal.

She told him he was her best and only friend. How Vishal used to take care of everything and she never even felt the need of another friend in her life.

But then came Shaan. She was wrong. She needed someone. No doubt Vishal did everything for her but he had other friends too. But Simi was not very social. She never expected her to befriend Shaan even but maybe their common interests helped the bud of friendship to blossom.

She was lonely. And she never considered Shaan as an option. She was a true friend to him. She was hurt by Vedika's words. Her intentions were never like that. Shaan was sorry for her.

He promised to be there for her always. They both were slightly attracted towards each other but wanted to limit it as friendship only. Shaan wanted to tell her but he understood that at this point of time she was in a need of a friend.

She was happy how he understood her. They planed an evening outing to the lake that day. They had fun. Talking about books, studies, their childhood, their experiences and all. They made a promise of never breaking this beautiful bond they were sharing. Shaan was complementing her after every 5 minutes. She found him way too cute.

Simi told him her deepest wish which was to become an author and publish her own book someday. And Shaan was overwhelmed when he heard that. He said he would help her in that and her wish would surely come true one day. He knew she would do it.

With passing days, their friendship was growing stronger. They shared everything. Simi's feelings for him were growing stronger.
But she was scared. It was after a very long time that she had got a really good friend and she didn't want to lose him.

And one of those days, the Principal announced a 3-Day camping trip to Mussorie. Both Shaan and Simi got themselves registered.
They both were excited. While Simi was looking forward to have some fun and spend time with Shaan.
Shaan had some other plans in mind.

Back home, Vishal called up Simi. He had been missing her a lot. He wanted to come back soon. For a while she had forgotten who he was. She was so lost in her and Shaan's world. Even she wanted him to come back soon. She had to tell him about Shaan. Hiding her feelings from Vishal would be tough, and she couldn't hide stuff from him. So she waiting for him to return.
She was crushing on Shaan and Vishal being her best friend had to know this. 


Part-7

~"When someone else's wishes and happiness matters to you more than your own, when their smile is enough to light up your day, when they are the one in your prayers, you are surely in love with that person."~

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Days passed and Simi was totally attached to Shaan. They had almost shared everything except the fact that they had started liking each other. They were afraid of losing what they had.

It was time for their trip now. Excitement was at its peak. School trips are always fun especially when you have your best friend to tag along to.

Simi was busy packing and that was when she got Vishal's call. He told her he would be back in a week. She was dying to meet him. She had to spill the beans to Vishal. She told him about the trip. He was missing being around her. And all she wanted to do right now was tell him about Shaan. But she was waiting for him to come back so she could introduce both of them.

Finally they were going to Mussoorie. They were together in the train. Simi found Shaan to be excited about something. She kept on asking him but all he said that it was a surprise. She was curious.

In between their talks, Simi asked him if he liked someone. He blushed and said, "Its you."

She was surprised. A strange kind of feeling took over her. She couldn't explain it. She was blushing as well. She never knew Shaan had feelings for her as well. For some time, both of them were lost in thoughts. Shaan was confused over her reaction. He was cursing himself for saying that. While she was so happy that she couldn't react on what he said.

Shaan broke the silence and started talking about his old school. But Simi was still lost. All she coulh hear was the voice in her head that said,"Shaan likes you."

"Wow Simi! Shaan likes you."

"Should I tell him?"

"Shaan-Simi or Simi-Shaan?"

For the first day they had to explore the valley of Dehradun. Simi was still very excited about what Shaan had said. On the other hand, Shaan tried to be as normal as he could but Simi's strange excitement was surprising. His mind had many thoughts revolving here and there. He couldn't make out whether she felt the same or not.

For that he had a plan, he just had to wait for them to get back to the tents.

After dinner, everyone had set up their tents and had partners whom they shared it with. Simi wished Shaan Good night and went to her tent along with a girl who was from the other section. She didn't remember when she slept that night. Her mind was buzzing with thoughts of Shaan.

Finally lost in his thoughts and in the excitement of seeing him the next morning, she dozed off to sleep.

It was around 1:30 at night, she heard something. She felt as if someone was brushing her hair off her face. Her sleep was disturbed. Slowly she opened her eyes. And she saw Shaan next to her. She thought she was dreaming. She rubbed her eyes but it wasn't a dream. Shaan was there for real. She was about to scream. Shaan sensed that and he kept his hand on her mouth, to stop her so she didn't wake up others and they won't be busted. He whispered her to come out.

Once they were out of the tent, Shaan instructed her to keep quiet and to just follow him. She had no idea what he was upto. But she knew if she opened her mouth, they both would get into trouble. A little away from the area where the tents were, she asked him what was he upto and that too that late at night.

He smiled and said, "Keep calm Princess. Its a surprise. We are almost there."

All she knew was they were going up a hill but didn't know why.


Part-8

~"Love is not something which is planned, it just happen at the most unexpected time of our lives and the person we fall for, is always an exception."~

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Their world seemed to be at a halt at that moment. They could feel the magic of love dancing around them. A tingling sensation was felt inside them. All they wanted was to freeze the moment and make it theirs.

It was midnight, it was cold, but nothing affected both of them. The pure innocence of first love had taken a toll on them. It was as if this moment was just made for them.

"Thankyou Shaan. Seriously, this is the best surprise ever. Everything is so beautiful here.", Simi said with a shy smile.

They could see each other's eyes glittering with the magic of their love in the silver moonlight.

"Simi, if there is something that shines brighter than the moon and is more beautiful than this place, its your pretty face. And this is the truth, even though you won't believe me.", Shaan said.

And all she could do was smile. It was a wonderful feeling, she was out of words. Her happiness knew no bounds.

All of sudden Shaan said, "Simi, Simi, close your eyes. Right now. Just close your eyes."

"But why Shaan?", she was surprised.

"See there", he was pointing towards the sky, "shooting star, now close your eyes and wish upon that star."
And he interlocked his fingers in hers.

They both closed their eyes and wished for something. Shaan started asking her about her wish. But Simi didn't want to tell him because she was afraid if she told him, her wish might not come true.

But Shaan didn't stop, he knew what she had asked for, and she was expecting him to wish for the same, but he didn't. After her constant asking, she finally told him.

"I asked for you Shaan. You are my wish upon that shooting star. And I didn't want to tell you, because then you won't be mine. That's what they say right.", Simi made a sad face.

"My sweetheart, you are already mine. Our wish upon the stars is fulfilled, Shaan belongs to you now. Not even the stars can take you away from me. Simi, I love you more than you can imagine.", Shaan confessed.

"And I love you more than you love me Shaan. Thankyou for everything. But what did you ask for? You asked for the same, right?". Simi was curious to know.

"No, because I knew you are My Simi so I didn't ask for you, I asked for something else."

Simi was surprised and curious to know what he wished for. She started asking him.

Shaan told her, "You told me about your dream na. Your dream of being an author, so my wish upon that shooting star is seeing your novel getting published and you being acknowledged by everyone. And I knew you would make it. I'm sure of it. For me, your happiness is above everything, even above mine. And I know when this dream of yours would get fulfilled, you would be so happy and I'd be the happiest person on this earth Simi. You matter the most to me."

She was surprised to hear that. She wondered how she made her place in his heart within such a short time. But what they shared was magical and selfless. They were way deep into each other.

Both of them enjoyed the deep moment of silence. Sometimes words aren't enough to express how special the feeling is, that was what they were going through at that time. Their presence and their love was no one less than a heavenly feeling.

It was getting late now. They had to move back. Shaan didn't leave her hand for even a second. She could feel the protective feeling he had for her. She was loving him more and more. They were about to reach the camp site and that was when Shaan faced her and gave her a sweet peck on her cheek. She was blushing.
They didn't want anymore. They were more than happy with what they had.

A promise was made, a promise that meant to go on till forever.

3 days passed in a jiffy. Simi was loving this feeling, this feeling of belonging to someone. And Shaan was making it more and more special. They had the best days of their life and their short trip to the hills that night and that wish upon the stars was something they could never forget. It was now forever embedded in their hearts just as their names got engraved in each other's soul.
That is what the magic of first love is.


Part-9

~"Sometimes we are like stars, we fall to make someone's wishes come true."~

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Simi and Shaan were way into each other, even though they were together only for a short duration of time. That wish they both had asked for and the time spent on that trip was something both of them could never forget.

Vishal was back. And the first thing on his mind was to see Simi. It had been almost two months he hadn't seen her. No doubt they were in touch, but not seeing her everyday, which was like a routine for him, was something he was missing.

The very next day he planned to meet her. He didn't go to school that day. He never even had a hint about Simi and Shaan. Whereas Simi and Shaan were having good days like a new couple totally in deep love for each other.

That evening, Simi was busy reading a novel, that was when somebody knocked at her door. She had no clue about it. Her dad was in office and her mom had gone out for some work. She was wondering who it was. She was quite looking like a mess, in loose clothes and her hair out of place.

She opened the door. It was Vishal. She was way more than surprised.
Vishal stepped forward and hugged her tight, "Simi I missed you so much."

She didn't know how to react. The thought of someone else missing her other than Shaan was awkward now. She didn't hug him back.
All she could say was, "You were missed too Vishal."

Out of excitement Vishal hugged her. It had never happened before. So he thought she might have felt awkward due to that.

They sat and had a talk. Simi was quiet all the time. It was Vishal only who was speaking all the time. She was lost. She wanted to tell Vishal about Shaan. She couldn't hide it anymore.

"Listen Vishal, I need to tell you something.", Simi finally mustered up the courage and spoke up.

Vishal had something going on in his mind as well. He said, "So do I. But you first Simi."

With a great amount of courage she spoke up.
"Don't interrupt me Vishal. Just let me say it once and then you say."

Vishal nodded. Simi continued.

She said, "So I'm with this guy since like a week. His name is Shaan. I know you don't know him. He is a newcomer. He came when you are gone. Our love for literature and novels is what got us together. I love him. And he loves me more. I know you would be shocked. I'm sorry I didn't tell you before. But I was waiting for you to come back. You are my best friend Vishal. Promise me, you won't tell this to anyone else. Please. I'll introduce you both when you come to school. He is really cute. And I know you both would be good friends too. Don't be mad at him. I love him. You understand na, Vishal?"

Vishal broke down. He was completely shattered. He was about to tell her how much he has loved her over the years. And that too more than a best friend. But he had to step down now, step down for her happiness. It was as if he was numb. It was if something which has holding his life all together since the very start, now even denied him of his very existence.

"You had to tell me something na?", she wondered what he was thinking.

"Nothing Simu. Just had to tell you about the trip and the gifts I got for you. Here, see this.", and handed her a big bag.

Vishal was lost. The one he had loved always was in love with someone else. But for her happiness and smile, he was ready to sacrificed. He didn't show her his pain and decided not to tell her anything. For him, being with her as her best friend was good enough. He was glad she trusted him with this.

After a while he left. The very next day Vishal was introduced to Shaan by Simi. Vishal felt as if he had lost her. Her existence in his life was there, but not as before. Vishal wasn't her first priority now. It was Shaan now.



"Okay Shaan. Stop. You woke me up so that we could go up a hill. What would be a surprise over there? I can't go anymore. I'm tired. Please.", she was complaining.

"Simi, please. We are almost there. And you won't be able to go back alone. And these are hills and its dark.", he was being funny with her.

"No Shaan.", she was firm.

Shaan didn't say anything. He just held her hand tightly. She didn't say a word. She just kept on following him. The warmth of his touch was lovely. She couldn't think of anything else. All she knew was she was falling in love with him and so was he.

They were finally at the top, Shaan didn't leave her hand.

"So here we are Simi. Now say.", said Shaan.

"Wow Shaan! Everything around is so beautiful.", she could see nature's beauty all around.

He held her hand more tightly and faced her. The time was perfect. Her hand was in his hand and he felt at the top of world. She felt the same. She felt like flying above the clouds with him. The warmth of his presence didn't let the cold winds affect her one bit.


Part-10

~"Sometimes being a friend is the best way you can be in someone's life."~

______________________________

Shaan and Simi were so lost into each other that most of the times they used to forget if Vishal was there or not. It pricked Vishal. His best friend was not 'his' anymore.

She didn't even notice how her best friend was changing. For a guy whose whole life revolved around Simi, it was hard to accept that her world belonged to someone else now. For him, rejection was not something which was hurting him, it was the way how he was losing her. He accepted the fact that she loved someone else but what he couldn't accept was the way she was drifting away from him.

At every possible time, Simi tried to include Vishal with her and Shaan.
But being a third wheel was something which he really didn't appreciate. So he started distancing himself from them. He wondered if he ever had a girlfriend would he also change his behavior towards Simi?

Well no, he wouldn't. He was her guardian angel and he wanted to be there for her when she needed him. He knew there would be a day she would need him and he didn't want her to face that day alone.

Days were passing, class 12th was about to end in 6 months. Simi's birthday was approaching. Vishal was trying to work out what he could do for her. He felt as if he had lost all the rights he had on her. But still wanted to do something special for her.

He was lost in thoughts. Just when, his cellphone started to buzz.
He was surprised to see the name in the caller id.
It was Shaan.
He wondered why Shaan was calling him?Was Simi okay?

Shaan wanted to see him as soon as possible. Vishal had no idea why. But he knew it was somehow related to Simi. So without any second thought he went there.
He still had immense love in his heart for her.

He met Shaan. Shaan explained his surprise for her. He wanted Vishal's help in planning it. And being her best friend, he couldn't say no.
He would help him. Because it would bring Simi happiness.
He could do anything for her smile. 

Part-11

~"Once you are in love with someone, they become your habit, its like every bit of their existence means something to you. They touch your life in a special way, forever"~

____________________________

Finally it was Simi's birthday. As expected Shaan was the first one to call her. She was so happy. Shaan made her feel so special and lucky. He told her to get a goodnight sleep and wait for the surprises lined up for her.

Vishal thought he had lost the right to call her first. So he just sent a text wishing her the best of her life. It made her smile. Well maybe that was what Vishal wanted.

Simi went to school in excitement. Everybody was wishing her. But that one person was missing. Shaan wasn't there. She searched for him. But still couldnt find him. She was disappointed and about to break down. Vishal saw that. He supported her all the while and tried to keep her happy. He couldn't let the love of his life be sad on her birthday. He was trying his best to make her smile. He knew her happiness lay with Shaan. But all he could do, was atleast keeping her away from crying.

He supported throughout the day. He didn't want years to trickle down that lovely face. She was someone who defined perfection for him and he didn't want tears to spoil her beauty.
Maybe not like Shaan, but atleast he managed to make her smile. She wasn't happy, he could see that, but she wasn't crying, and the only reason was him which completed the purpose of his life.

It was reminding Simi of the old days, When her only friend was Vishal. But her thoughts weren't at ease. Was Shaan okay?
Even his phone was switched off.
She could see Vishal trying his best to make her happy, all she could do was smile. She wasn't happy as her happiness was missing. She didn't want Vishal to feel bad so she was acting as if she was okay.

School was fine, a major part of it was missing.
Shaan, with every step she took out of the school, she wondered where he might be. Back home, she called him up like thousands times but couldn't reach him. She didn't realise when she cried herself off to sleep. It was her worst birthday till day.

Somewhat around 4 she heard someone knocking at her door. Maybe, for a fraction of second she thought it was Shaan. She sprang out of bed and went to see who it was.
She was disappointed. It was Vishal.
He told her to get ready as there was a surprise waiting for her.
She didn't seem to be happy or excited. She was lost and Vishal knew the reason.
where was Shaan? Where was her guy on her special day? Was he even okay?
She tried to deny Vishal but then she had been ignoring Vishal ever since she was with Shaan. She felt bad. She thought her birthday was a good opportunity to rekindle things with her best friend.


Part-12

~"Sometimes the little things and efforts made by the one we love, are far better than all the worldly treasures. Those little things capture our heart completely."~

_______________________________

Vishal could see Simi's puffy red eyes and sad face. He couldn't see her like this, that too on her birthday. He told her to get ready soon. She wasn't in any mood, but with Vishal's constant insisting she got up.

She got ready. She wore a pretty black dress along with cute black wedges. She looked no less than a doll to Vishal but he could see the sadness in her eyes.

He took her to the hill side. They have been there before, but never alone. But Simi didn't mind. Vishal told her to go out and wait until he comes back. He went to park the car. She did as she was told.

10 minutes passed by, she couldn't see Vishal. She tried calling him but they were at the hillside, near a small lake so she couldn't get the signal. First Shaan, now Vishal, her birthday was a complete mess. She was about to cry. She had tears in her eyes, ready to fall any moment. She felt as if nobody loved her.

Just when she was about to break down, a voice said, "My baby doesn't look good crying." It was Shaan. She could see him walking towards her. She was mad at him. She literally started shouting on him. Well, he wasn't around on his girlfriend's special day.

All he did was, came closer and hugged her tight and said, "Surprise baby. I'm sorry. But you would knoe what took so much of time. Happy birthday, my love. You look so pretty that even the beauty of nature would be ashamed of itself."

She was spellbound. White t-shirt,black jeans, perfect hair, dimpled smile, rhe cutest guy on earth belonged to her. He had planned everything out. He spread a sheet and put a beautiful chocolate truffle cake in the centre along with chocolates and her favorite food items.

"After you mam", he said and made her sit. He came and sat right next to her and made her cut the cake. And they both shared everything, made each other eat from their own hands.

"I missed you so much sweetheart, today in the school, but all this surprise, its all worth it.I'm so lucky.this is the best birthday ever. I love you.", Simi hugged him tight.

"Wait for the main surprise baby. I love you more and more, and every year your birthday would be the best ever. This is my promise to you.", and Shaan kissed her on her forehead.

"Here, open this", he handed her a wrapped gift. And she opened it, it was a painting, a night scene, a shooting star, and a couple standing hand in hand on the hill top. He made it for her, himself. It wasn't perfect, but he did his best. She loved it. She was out of words to explain the beautiful feeling.

"Thankyou Shaan. You are the best thing that's ever been mine. I can't explain how happy I'm",Simi was blushing.

"Simi, just close your eyes.", Shaan said. And she did so.

He took a pretty heart shaped necklace from his pocket and made her wear it. He told her to open her eyes. It was so beautiful. She had tears of happiness in her eyes. All the hatred and anger she had for him for not coming in the morning had vanished.

"I love you Simi. Forever. You are the one I want to spend the rest of my life with", Shaan took her in his arms.

"I have no words, I'm actually out of word to express my love for you Shaan.", she could feel his warmth.

Their eyes met and it was as if this world belonged to them. They were with each other, what else did they want. And they came closer, their cold lips finally meet. They kissed each other.

It wasn't just a kiss. It was a promise of forever, a promise meant to be. It was the shared dreams they were seeing, it was more than a normal feeling, an ecastic feeling which couldn't be describe. The emotions in their hearts didn't need words, they were flowing out with that kiss. It was as if their souls were tangled into each other, to be together always and forever.

Their relationship was meant to be, it was the kind of love people write novels about. And both of them were lucky to have each other by their side.


Part-13

~"Every relationship has to pass certain tests of life, and if they can go through them together, they are meant to be."~

________________________________

They had such a cute relationship. Like everyone they had fights, but none of them lasted long. They couldn't even think of leaving each other. Shaan didnt even like a single drop of tears in Simi's eyes. They had misunderstandings, troubles, fights but nothing was as strong as the bond of love they both had been sharing.

It was almost 2 years that they had been together. School was about to end. Many questions and insecurities were creeping up in Simi's mind. She thought what the future and what it held for them. But she knew their love was strong enough to face it all.

Their boards had ended. Now it was time for college admissions.
But well sometimes it isn't always as we plan life to be. Shaan got a huge surprise. He got the selection letter from the University of Australia where he had applied.

He told his family. Everyone was happy as well as surprised because he didn't tell anyone before applying, not even Simi. He had kept it as a secret. He didn't know how to tell her.

He sent her a text saying, "Really important. Meet me in an hour at CCD. Love you."

Simi had no idea what it was about. She got ready and left for CCD. She saw him there, when she entered.

Black jacket, blue jeans, that dimpled smile, even after 2 years, she could feel butterflies dancing in her stomach. He held her hand and sat beside her on the sofa. They ordered stuff and started talking.

It was now time for Shaan to break the news now. He told her he was selected for the Architecture Course at University of Australia. His happiness knew no bounds.
But she was tears, because he never told her even once. She wanted him to tell him before.

"Why didn't you tell me Shaan? Why did you hide it?", Simi said in a low tone.

"I wanted to keep it as a surprise baby. And I wasn't even sure that i would make through it. But now, its final. I'm really sorry Simu. I never expected that I'd be selected.", Shaan was sad too.

She could sense that. But she was happy for him, because even she wanted to see him rise. She hugged him and said she was sorry. She shouldn't have reacted that way. But what could she do, he would be away. She was so used to having him around all the time that she couldn't even bear the thought of separation. But she knew together they would make it.

She hugged him tight. She felt like never leaving him. They were entangled forever. And he was going there for their better future only, so she was ready for it. She was wearing that beautiful necklace he gave her on her birthday, it was her most prized possession. They were so much in love that they were ready to face everything hand in hand.

They both didn't show it to each other. but deep inside they were afraid. Distance would play dirty tricks but they were confident that it won't let them drift apart anyhow. But still our heart is always afraid of losing the one we love. But it was not the same in their case. They were forever.


Part-14

~"Sometimes we keep quiet because in the heat of the moment, we don't want to lose the one we love."~

_________________________________

Shaan was preparing to leave. He was ready to reach out for his dream. With passing days he got busier. He couldn't help it.

Simi felt bad. She was being ignored, she knew it wasn't on purpose but still separation from our loved one is what pricks our heart the most. At the back of her mind, thousands thoughts were flowing.

What if?
Maybe if?
Shouldn't it be this way?
I don't wanna lose him.
Shaan won't change, right?
Distance is creepy.
How will I manage?
All these thoughts seem to have occupied her all the time. Shaan knew it. But what could he do?

He could see his dreams ahead of him, and once he completed them, he could be hers, forever.

In the last two weeks, she hardly could hear anything from him. She understood he had to be with his family, but even she wanted her time for herself. She didn't even have any idea when she would see him next.

Her nights were spent silently crying, she didn't want destiny to tear them apart. She knew her love was strong. But was it strong enough to face the world who has always been jealous of happy people?

She made a scrapbook of all their memories and pictures, and wrote poems and stuff for him. She left some pages at the end so she could write about the memories they would make in the future.

Two days before going, both of them cried together over the phone. Even the thought of being away was scaring the hell out of them. They told each other how much they loved each other and how much they need the love they had.

They made a plan to meet on the same hillside where they celebrated her birthday. An uncanny silence was felt by both of them. They have never felt that way. But what could they do! They were so used to having each other around all the time that it wasn't so easy for them to accept it. She broke down right in front of him. She couldn't accept it anyhow.

"Simi, I'm sorry, I'm so sorry. I hate when you cry and right now you are crying because of me, I feel so sick. Please Simi.", he hugged her tight.

She buried her head into his chest. She was crying hard and said, " I can't control it. I cannot lose you. I love you Shaan."

He wiped the tears off her eyes. He kissed her eyelids and kissed away the tears from her eyes. And they kissed. They wish they could be like this, forever. Kissing each other kissing away the tears in each other arms.
But the promise they had made, was meant to be forever.

And after a day, to chase his dreams and make them come true, Shaan was off to Australia. He had left his most prized possession behind but that would constantly give him a reason to come back. And he knew nothing was gonna change between them, ever.


Part-15
~"Distance makes the heart grow fonder,
But its the same distance which makes two loving hearts apart, no matter how hard they try, distance plays their dirty tricks on them."~

______________________________

Shaan was off to Australia. It was a beginning of a new life from a new end for him. Of course he missed her, but maybe he was bad at expressing. He couldn't tell her because it was hard for him too, leaving his family, leaving his city, his love and coming to a new country. He didn't want to fall weak. The love he had for her was much more than she had for him. Bht what could he do. He had to work hard to make their future better.

It took him time to settle down there. He had to work hard. He had to manage university, studies, job and then do everything by himself. Whatever time left, he used to give it to Simi. Even the time difference and Simi's college timings were creating issues. But he kept quiet, he knew these aren't issues to fight and create a scene upon.

Every now and then, on weekends, they would have a long conversation. They missed each other's presence. Simi used to cry. He didn't like at all. At times, he thought it was all his fault. At other times he had to make her understand that he is doing all this for them only.

Due to some tests and workload at his job, Shaan wasn't able to give her much time. He tried to explain but she wasn't ready to listen. She thought he was ignoring her on purpose. She started to fight. But all that while he kept calm and waited for her anger to cool down. He couldn't afford to lose her anyhow. And all these fights had no significance. She was sorry for her behavior. But what could she do. This separation was affecting her as well.

He had to do it. He belonged to a good family but not as rich as Simi's. To give her a comfortable and happy life he had to do it. Maybe she was not understanding it, because she used to get emotional. He was doing everything possible. He understood that she never meant what she said during the fights, it used to make him sad too.

Another year passed by, it was now three years that they had been together. No matter how much they fought, at the end of the day their love used to win.

On the other side, Vishal was now studying in DU. He tried hard to move on, but he couldn't. No matter how hard he tried, he failed. He accepted it. His heart would always beat for Simi. No matter how much he tried, moving on from Simi would be like moving on from his life. He left it all on his destiny. He wanted to see her happy, and she was. What else could he wish for. He buried his feelings deep in his heart, he made himself strong enough because she didn't want her to even have a hint of all this.


Part-16
~"True are the friends who help you in your worst times, don't turn your back on you when the world forgets you, pick you up when you fall"~

_________________________________

Distance was playing tricks on them. They were losing that sweetness in their relationship. Those late night texts and talks were replaced by everyday fights. The couple who couldn't even spend an hour without talking to each other were now going through days without even a single message or phone call from each other. They both were regretting it, were missing each other, but their ego wasn't letting them accept it. It was too big to be broken by a mere word 'Sorry'.

They weren't realising that in the heat of the fight they were creating gaps in their relationship. Maybe they didn't want to hurt each other, so the best option they thought of was to ignore each other. They were passing days without talking to each other.

It was their monthly anniversary that day. And just a day before they had a big arguement. Simi planned to call him and say sorry and accept it as her mistake. she was tired of it. She wanted the same old her, the same old Shaan and the same old relationship they shared. She didn't want to lose her wish upon the stars.

She was constantly calling him. But he wasn't picking up. She thought maybe he was too mad at her.
Disappointed, she went to sleep.

Next morning when she woke up she saw his texts saying that he was partying with friends so he just couldn't make out when she called.
She was hurt. She was taken aback when he said he was with friends so he was busy. Thousand thoughts and memories were rushing in her mind.

She thought he was never like that before.
She never preferred friends over her.
She was always his priority.
What is up with him?
Why was hw ignoring her?
She wanted to make things alright but he was busy partying.
Why was he behaving as such?

Such thoughts were playing at the back of her mind. She couldn't control herself. Tears were tricking down her cheeks.

The next day when she called him, they started arguing over it. Both of them were broken.
They fought and they cut the call. That had become a routine now.

Shaan made up a plan. He needed to set things right and for that he needed somebody's help.
And that somebody was Vishal.
He called him up and told him everything. Vishal and Shaan had been good friends and the thing was for Simi's happiness.
How could Vishal deny?


Part-17

~"There are those times when life gives us a thousand reasons to give up and to cry about, but we need to always remember that there is always one reason to hold on and be happy about, we just need to stick to it."~

__________________________________

Shaan had thought of a plan. He thought of giving his family and Simi a surprise visit in his upcoming break. He had already started working out and saving for the ticket because he didn't want his family or Simi to even have a clue about it. His main motive was to set things right with Simi. He couldn't let things go on like this. It was high time. He didn't want to sacrifice their love. This was looking like the only way left now.

But to put his plan in action, he needed somebody's help.
Vishal was the only person he could think of.

He called him up as soon as possible and told him about his plan. The only motive of Vishal's life was to keep Simi happy, so he couldn't say no. He was ready to help Shaan.

Vishal was going back home for the holidays. He was so eager to see Simi. He used to miss her and their bond. But he knew, the closest he could be to her was being her friend. Because he thought he had lost himself as her best friend.

On the other side, Shaan was working hard just to finally get to her and make things fine. Just one more month, and he would take her in his arms and tell her everything he felt and would listen to her and sort out everything and be the same old happy couple. It had been two years since he last saw her, he couldn't wait anymore.

When Vishal saw Simi, he could feel as if he was standing in front of a stranger. That happy spark in her eyes was missing. He could sense how she was struggling because she couldn't bear separation from Shaan. That day he realised how bigger is her love for Shaan than his love for her.

Simi completely broke down in front of Vishal. She cried and cried. She told him how she never wants to lose Shaan. And Vishal promised that he won't let her lose him at any cost. He wished to hug her at that moment and to tell her to stop crying. But the inside of him knew that if he did so he would break down too. He wanted to avoid, that was what he was doing all this time. So he did the same. He somehow made her quiet and she was normal. He was missing the old her, which he had lost forever.

______________________________

Time had changed the three of theirs lives. That too forver.

In another 10 days, Shaan would be coming back for some days to set things right. Vishal helped him and would be accompaning him back home and would help them in solving the issues that had crept in between them hait because he wanted to see the same glow in her eyes. He was very well I'm hiding his emotions, and that was what we was doing at that moment too.

Everything was set, Shaan was ready to come. Vishal was there to help him. Simi was stuck right there and wanted back her old life. 

Part-18

~"Sometimes no matter how hard you try, destiny ditches you. No matter how much you try to change it, it cannot, it has to be like that, no matter how much it hurts."~

________________________________________________

In another 4 days, Shaan would be in India and his life would be like before. Everything was set. He messaged Vishal and made him promise one thing that in his absence he would support her and make her smile, anyhow.
Because Shaan knew it, Vishal and her friendship had a special bonding, and he was never ever jealous of it.

Vishal was a true gentleman. His friendship with Shaan and his love for Simi made him stand by this promise. He was ready for the sake of his friendship and his love.

Things were a bit better with Simi. She was becoming a bit understanding and was adjusting herself to the distance, she wasn't fighting with him on those issues since a week. It gave Shaan a sense of relief. He bought some gifts for her. It was making him happy just to think how surprised she would be when she would see him after two years. Finally after a long time, he was happy and satisfied that things would get back to normal. He owed Vishal a lot. He had always been a great friend to him.

______________________________________________

Simi had been calling up Shaan since the last one day, but no response was coming from the other side, not even a text message. Even when he was busy, he used to leave a text or a mail. But that he didn't. She thought maybe he was too busy.
The whole day passed, still no sign of him. She was tensed but then she thought maybe because of excessive work, he might be busy or might have left his phone at his apartment.

She even told Vishal to call him up and see. But the same, no reply to him.
It was getting quite late at night.
She went off to sleep.

Around 3 at night, her mobile started ringing. But she was in deep sleep, she didn't realize someone was calling her.

It was in the morning, when she woke up, she had 3 calls from Shaan and 10 calls and 4 unread messages from Vishal. She had no clue about it.

She didn't even have a hint about Shaan coming to india, neither did Vishal spill the beans.

She woke up and called up Shaan first, but his phone was switched off.

She saw Vishal's messages asking about her, where she is, why isn't she picking up, and then she called up Vishal. She had no idea about anything which was happening.

He told her that he was going to pick her up in 5 minutes. She got up and started getting ready. She was wondering why Shaan's phone was switched off and why Vishal wanted to see her so early in the morning.
To have her questions answered, she waited for Vishal.

Part-19

~"Some things in life are inevitable, they are just bound to happen."~

____________________________________

Vishal picked up Simi from her house. Nobody even enquired, as she was going with Vishal.

She was asking him continuously where he was taking her, but he himself didn't have any answer to it. 
Once they were out of city, near to the hills, he parked the car at one side and told her to get out.

He didn't know how, but he had to say it to her. Words were burning his throat, he knew the moment he would say it, it will break her into pieces. He looked at her face, she was so pretty, her big eyes had that glitter in them, her rosy cheeks were shining, she was looking for answers, he just didn't know how to say it. Had it not been that girl he was deeply in love with, it would have been easy. He didn't want to see tears in those eyes, how perfect they always had been.

He realized she had grown more beautiful than she was when she was a child. He kept gazing at her, he knew she would change after today, that too forever. He was so lost in that moment.

Simi waved her hands in front of his eyes. He came from his thoughts. She was wondering why he had brought her here.
He finally had to break the silence.

He cleared his throat. With a great amount of strength he said, "Simi. Listen to me. Last night, it wasn't Shaan who was calling you. It was his friend from the university. You didn't respond, so he called me up. I don't know how to tell you, but Shaan is serious. His condition is critical."

Simi looked at him with eyes wide open, "Okay stop it Vishal. Stop joking. Would you?"

Vishal could see the tears which were about to trickle down her eyes.
He said, "No Simi, I'm not. Yesterday morning while Shaan was at the university, one of the guys from the Indian community was being teased by some native Australians, and Shaan tried to help him. But those guys, got them in a brawl. They were drunk. They had those baseballs bats and they hit Shaan and his friend. That guy, died on the spot and Shaan is suffering a serious head injury."

He stopped. The later part was hard to say. The girl he loved was broken and crushed totally in front of him. How hard it was for him to tell the one he loved that the one she thought of being with forever, is losing it with every passing minute.

She held his shirt. Tears were flowing. She couldn't breathe.
"He would be fine Vishal, won't he? Its an injury, it would heal?", she said.

Vishal looked at her, tears were tricklig down his cheeks too.

"Vishal say it.", she screamed.

He spoke up, "He is brain dead Simi. They are waiting for his parents to come and take the final decision. I'm really sorry Simu. Its almost impossible for someone who is brain dead."

She couldn't take it all. She was about to fall, that was when Vishal held her and made her sit. She didn't utter a single word. She was shivering, crying, cursing everything. She was hating everything. It was like her life had lost its meaning. She felt like ending it up. Vishal couldn't say anything. He knew even if he did, it would hold no meaning. He lost a friend, she lost her love and with that, he lost the one he loved, forever.

He knew Simi would never come out from the trauma, but he couldn't leave her. The promise he had made to Shaan, of taking care of her in his absence, he never knew that Shaan would mean this. He knew she needed him at the moment. He had no clue how, but he had to support her. He tried to confront her, but he knew at this moment it was of no use.

She wished to die. She didn't want to face the world anymore. She hugged Vishal tight and cried, cried out loud. She had lost her purpose of living, her body had lost its soul.

__________________________________

Coming back from the memories, Simi had tears in her eyes. Her voice was shaking. Samy was shocked. She was crying as well. She had no idea Simi went through it all. She couldn't even imagine the pain her sister might have went through at that time. It was four years back.
Samy wanted to know what happened after that but just didn't have the courage to ask her.
Samy just hugged her sister tightly. She wiped the tears running down Simi's cheeks. She wanted to know more, but right now her sister needed some time. 


Part-20

"With time the pain decreases, you miss their presence but you know you are helpless. Sometimes that grief, that pain, is something which gives you warmth in this cold world, so you like holding onto it."~

________________________________________________

The pain was way too much for Simi to handle alone. The guy she had dreamt of spending her life with, had left her alone. It was as if the world had crashed at her feet. Reality was too harsh for her, dreams were cold. She had nightmares. She cried herself to sleep often waking up in the middle of night sobbing. She didn't even knew who to blame, but her world was brutally taken away from her.

Vishal knew her condition, but there was nothing he could do. He tried to help her, support her, but she had become a mere stone who had captured everything inside her and refused to look ahead in life. She didn't eat, sleep, study, she was in a miserable condition. Vishal visited her whenever possible.

With passing time, she was learning to live with that loss. The pain kept throbbing inside her, at times it suffocated her, but she somehow managed. Memories used to give her an essence of his presence. She started living on those memories. Vishal was her solace. Even if it was three at night, she would call him and cry and he used to ensure that she finally is fine. He was ready to give up anything just to see that same smile and that same glitter in her eyes again. She wasn't perfectly fine, or maybe she was good at hiding it, but inside her soul was crushed. But just with time, she learnt how harsh life was. Life gave her the best gift, gave her the best memories and in jiffy, took that all away from her. Those fights because of the creepy distance was the only regret she had. Had she known it, she would always have loved him, never a harsh word would have been used for him by her.

Vishal would often drop by to see how she was doing. He would often take her out, wishing she would show some signs of being normal like before.
But it looked like far from impossible.
But he liked to be around her, maybe just so she knows she has someone.
He decided to never let out her feelings for. He couldn't her more. She trusted him and counted upon him and this was the time she needed the love of her best friend and the the love of someone who had been silently loving her all this time.

There were days when she used to lose all the hope and felt like giving up. But there were days she started cherising things and a little curve used to brighten up her face. Maybe not like before, but enough for Vishal. Atleast, a hint of happiness, if he could bring her that, what else would he want.

Most of his time was devoted to her, and in two years he had seen her condition getting better. He used to thank god for that. He had selflessly kept aside his love and his wishes, and started living for her happiness, no matter how much it might hurt him later.

Two years had passed. Simi tried to keep herself busy with everything so she got no time to think about everything. But she often failed, she used to tell Vishal. She used to cry out loud over the phone or when he came to meet her. It was hurting him more than her, but she couldn't see it. He decided to bury his feelings deep down, and never ever let her know about how he deeply he was in love with her.

It was his birthday that year. There was a different kind of excitement in him that time.


Part-21

~"Life doesn't give you the things you wish for always, but it has a unique way to place you where you belong. The days might be bad, the time might be worse, but surely this life is not something which is permanently messed up. It does have it moments."~

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It was Vishal's birthday that year. He was supposed to come back home from Delhi around afternoon. His parents had planned a big surprise party for their son. But his and Simi's parents ahd a bigger surprise for them. They planned to get them engaged on that very day. For them, seeing them together was something they had always wished for. Simi had no idea about it, she was told to get ready by 7 in the evening. Her mother suggested her to wear a beautiful black saree and to let her hair loose, and she did so and she was looking elegant.

When she entered her family, Vishal was the first one to rush to her. He was so happy to see her. It was as if his face lighted up on seeing her.
They both had no idea what was coming, but their families were already exchanging looks. The position in the state of both the families led to a big function with everything perfectly done. When everyone gathered to cut the cake, Vishal's father took over the mic and took everyone's attention. He was accompanied by Simi's father.

He said, "It is not just Vishal's birthday, but another special day. Today me and Mr. Rajput, who you all know, my best friend, we have decided to change our friendship to a family relation by marrying my son Vishal to his daughter, Simi." And both Mr. Rajput and Mr. Thakur hugged each other and even their wives were happy. Vishal and Simi had got a huge surprise. Vishal was the happiest person on the planet at that moment. The families and the close friends gathered nearby and everyone was congratulating them.

Rings were exchanged. Vishal's smile was expressing his happiness. Simi knew this day was coming, and she happily accepted her parents decision. For Vishal, who had loved her all his life, finally got what he wanted. It was the best birthday gift. Everyone was happy. Simi was sad, but she knew she had to do this. Had it been someone else other than Vishal, she couldn't even think of continuing her life.

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Simi told Samaira everything. Her journey till date was all like that. There were days Simi used to say to Vishal, that she wouldn't be able to give him that same amount of love, but Vishal, he never said anything to her. He understood that quite well. But now, officially she was his, and he could keep her happy, anyhow. He had her, his secret wish was now with him, what else could he want, even though it came with a price, a sacrifice, but he was ready for anything just to be with her.

Isn't that what true love is! 

THE END

Because This Is Life :)

You sit back thinking why the hell your life is so screwed up? You want answers? You want explanations? 
Every freaking other person seems to have a life better than you. Don't they, right?

You see across the road, a guy in a shiny new BMW and you are like *Wow! This man is so lucky.* Little do you know, that he had just lost his father and now managing all the work by himself, he has a lot of people to support and he can't break down.

You see an old couple hand in hand, you feel how awesome it is to be with the one you love, but you don't know how much they have faced together at every step and now they stand there, together.

You see a young girl with a perfect body structure and good clothes, walking down the street, you see how fabulous she is, but you don't see how hard she works, she even does overtime because she is a single mom. She has a beautiful son back home, she needs to take care of him and give him the best.


Guys, Stop complaining how your life is and how you want it to be. 
Always remember : 
"Nothing lasts forever! Not even the breeze. Even Sadness doesn't. But make sure your smile lasts forever!"
No matter how bad the situation is, face it with a smile. It's just god's way of testing you. Rather than complaining why is it, or thinking how it should be, why don't you go out and face it? A reward is surely waiting at the end. It might come late, but remember it surely would.

Life is short and temporary. Surely it is screwed up. But whose life isn't? Don't you see a beautiful rainbow after the rain? Isn't the wait worth it?
Hell yea. It surely is.
Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, jump into the moment and make it perfect. Try to dance in the storm. If that spark is missing, go to any possible limit, maybe even the stars to get it back.
Fight for the one you love, don't just give up on it. If you don't feel fine, be spontaneous, enjoy every little moment of this god's gift to us. Rather than seeing what we don't have, why don't we just see what all we got, how lucky we have been on this journey. Maybe all we need is a positive outlook. When you are totally broken, pick up those pieces, fix them back up. Stand on your feet and rise.
If people laugh, let them. They are just jealous, because you are reflection of something they can never be. 
It Reminds me of a Taylor Swift quote,
"If you are lucky enough to be different, don't ever change."

There isn't even a single thing in life which comes easily, and if it does it surely goes back. All the struggle and pain are always rewarding. Don't curse god if things don't go your way, because his way might be loads better than yours. Learn from your mistakes, let the pain heal. If one thing didn't turn out the way you wanted it to be, don't lose hope. You have better things coming up your way in life. But don't ever give up on it, no matter how screwed up it is, just hold on. And never ever compare your life to others, you may not know how screwed up theirs' is.

Always remember,
"Life lives, life dies,
Life laughs, life tries,
Life gives up, life tries,
But this life looks different,
Through everybody's eyes."

Teenage Love

One look from them, and it takes your heart away. Hearing their name once gives you butterflies. The cute blush when someone talks about them in front of you. That late night texts, never ending phone calls and still you feel that something is always left to talk about. It's when looking right into each other's eyes is a lot more than your long conversations. It's when after a long fight, you hug each other and then fight over whose mistake it was. That first kiss, when your lips meet for the very first time and you forget everything else. When you write both of your names together and see how cute it sounds and you draw all those doodle hearts with both of your initials over it.
It's when you skip classes to go out on a date with them, snuggle up in their arms while at a movie, eat together, give each other little gifts. That first hurt, that pain, when you feel like crying and every bit of you dies inside. 

The feelings of first love, that first time when you actually feel that you belong to someone, is beautiful. That feeling of doing something special for them, and then getting their appreciation.
It's when you don't sleep whole night because reality is a lot better than dreams. 
Teenage love is that most beautiful phase of life. Some may cherish it now, some may regret, some may smile over it, some may hate it, but that first teenage love full of innocence and purity is something we cannot forget all put lives.
With them your whole world seem different. You don't care about the rest. You dress up specially to impress them. You stay up all the night just so you can talk. You put their choices ahead of yours, that innocence of first love cannot be compared to anything else.

Maybe one day you would realise what it really was, maybe it wasn't the love of your life.
But for some teenage love goes on till the end. The feelings of their teenage were there to stay forever.
For some it was a game, a game in which their feelings were being played along, it might just be a time pass for some even.
For some it may be a scar which can never be healed again, a scar whose pain cannot be reduced, a scar which left its mark because their first love ended on a bad note. They were so deeply into it that when it ended, it took away their everything with them, something which they can never forget.
For some, teenage love was just a lesson in their life, that chapter they never want to go back to but somehow it taught them a lot.
For some it might have ended, but still is no less than a beautiful memory.
But no matter what you say it is one of the most unforgettable time of our lives.

Teenage love is uncertain, you don't know how long it would last, it's a risk you both are willing to take, it gives you memories worth remembering for the lifetime, even it means having a broken heart at the end.
It might not be the true love of our lives, it's not just liking, not lust nor infatuation; it's *Teenage Love* here to stay, here to play with our hearts and to never go away.