She Won't Reveal 38

             She Won’t Reveal (38)

                      Nidhu Bhusan Das

                              

    The Conflict

                                                              A shadow eludes

                                                              My right leg itches to rise

                                                             The left one sticks, why?

                                                             If desire engenders fantasy

                                                             Reason brings back to reality

                                                            The conflict is interesting.

                                        

The flight took off on time from Guwahati. Anu and Sujata were side by side in the economy class. Once the plane stabilized in the tranquil air, the two went transcendental.Anu looked out through the window and scanned the gliding white cloud. She saw a lotus floating in the air and moving abreast the plane. She sees the lotus always when in meditative mood. The lotus induces her to remember and murmur Gayatri Mantra: “Aum Bhur Bhuva Svah/Tat Savitur Varenyam/Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi/Dhiyo Yo Naha Prachodayat” (Oh God! thou art the Giver of life/Remover of pain and sorrow/The bestower of happiness/Oh! the Creator of the universe/May we receive thy supreme sin-destroying light/May thou guide our intellect in the right direction).

Anu’s mind’s on the ascent with the ascent of the plane. It happens. Our spirit goes high when we’re afloat in the space. We can be imaginative and even our soul can go and have a tryst with the Immanent Soul. When in meditation Anu’s such experience. She often has such a tryst with her Thammi.She felt, Thammi’s with her now. She’s accompanying her to Kolkata.”Yes, Thammi’s always with me, whether I feel it or not,”Anu’s happy to think. Does Thammi like her more than anyone else, even her son who’s critically ill? Arunima Devi’s been in extreme agony since Anu drifted away from her parents. She loves her son and daughter-in-law because they’re perfect humans with goodness and humility. Anupama’s a perfect wife and mother. At deathbed her husband told her to take Anupama as their daughter-in-law. His son and Anupama’s father were present at the time Anindya Chatterjee let his wish out and breathed his last.Anupama’s the only daughter of their family friends physicist Tarun Sen and Bithika.Arindam and Anupama were then first year MBBS students of Calcutta Medical College & Hospital. They weren’t lovers but came to know they would be through marriage. They kept honourable distance from each other, and none in the campus had an ilk of the idea that they’d be together in a negotiated marriage. It remained a closely guarded secret.

They’ve been devoted to each other and to their mother and mother-in-law. Arunima Devi’s really happy. But her trouble began when Anu came to construe that she didn’t get the care expected of her parents. She knew they loved Anu and had high dream about her future. But Anu couldn’t be convinced. She wouldn’t like to wean them away from the devotion to their profession and philanthropic mission. At the same time she wouldn’t see her granddaughter unhappy living with a wrong notion of being neglected.So, she struck a strong bond with the young angel. They’d a psychic and emotional live-together. But Anu’s misconception couldn’t be removed, and she continued to suffer from an ontic problem which eventually engendered her problematic nature, difficult to deal with.

Anu began to come to terms with reality after a series of faux pas.She’s relieved to realize Thammi’s her co-traveller to Kolkata in the crisis she’s in and which she’s destined to resolve for the survival of the family known for its philanthropy, rich tradition and human values transcending the feudal vices.

Sujata let her friend introspect, and was preparing for the role she would be required to play in any eventualities. She felt she’d an onerous task ahead to resettle Anu in the family.

Back in Guwahati, Prof. Sanyal’s anxiously awaiting the news from Kolkata.

Anu’s tryst’s disrupted when the pilot announced at 4 p.m.” In about 10 minutes we’re to touch down Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport. We’re on time.” She took the hand of Sujata, her heart pounding. The plane taxied to the tarmac. She followed Sujata as they disembarked. Sujata telephoned Anu’s mother, “We’ve reached auntie, and will come straight to the clinic. How’s uncle?” She tersely replied,”He’s now in bed. Come. I’m here. Our car waits to take you.Anu knows.”

They came out of the terminal and boarded the car. Anu’s being taken into the car by Sujata who felt her friend’s losing control and her weight’s by now almost totally on her.” Is it she’s in worries about her papa? Is she in seizure? Stress, doctors say, may trigger seizure affecting the hormone cortisol,”Sujata’s anxious. Soon after the car began to move, Anu started vomiting, and her body loosened and she was laid on the seat of the car, Sujata sprinkling water on her forehead and eyes. The chauffeur understood he must rush to the clinic. The passages was easy and smooth for a few kms but soon the devil of traffic snarl immobilized the automobiles on the VIP Road which appeared to be a still picture of stuck vehicles in a idly busy mega city. Both Sujata and the chauffeur felt uneasy and helpless.Sujata’s rubbing Anu’s forehead. They reached the clinic about an hour late. Dr. Anupama’s pacing in the corridor. The chauffeur rushed to inform her about the condition of Anu.Problems come in chain and Dr. Anupama’s now burdened with problem upon problem.Anu’s taken to a cabin and treatment began in no time.

Father and daughter were in the same clinic. The cause of illness was the same- emotional distress triggered by juvenile summary judgement of the daughter and the consequent pain and suffering of the father in silence which gradually crippled his inner mechanism of resistance. The father didn’t know his daughter had flown back to him, and was now in the cabin near his with oxygen musk on. Anupama prays for a cathartic to come for the father and the daughter in the clinic two and a half decade from now their child was born. She remembers the day- 10 September 1987 at 6 a.m. precisely. It’s a moment of joy and the father treated everyone in the clinic with sweets. They’re so happy. Arunima Devi’s present and equally happy at the clinic. “Anu cried a lot at birth. She’s so naughty and lovely. But as she grew she became more and more reticent and silence became her eloquence,” sighed Anupama told Sujata reminiscing. At 9 p.m. Anupama and Sujata left the clinic for ARUNIMA at Salt Lake. It’s the house of the doctor couple named after the mother of Arindam and Anu’s Thammi. On the way they didn’t talk, and Anupama’s handkerchief was on her eyes most of the time. She’s been so happy having such a loving and caring husband and mother-in-law in a family with high values. She’s been so unhappy that she couldn’t let their daughter understand and feel how much they love her, how worthy and caring a father Apurba is. In the silence, Sujata tried to fathom the pangs of the mother who’s everything turned into a naught because their daughter doesn’t understand. With her husband away from her and for the first time without interaction with him, she must have the terrible feeling of loneliness, Sujata thought.

The chauffeur told they were back home, and Sujata helped her come out of the car. They staggered up the stairs and the chauffeur rang the doorbell. The domestic help opened the door. The chauffeur went downstairs to his room. The dinner’s ready. Anupama asked Sujata to change, wash and have the dinner.”Sujata, dear! You must have been tired and hungry. Eat whatever’s available. We’re in disarray.”

“I ain’t tired auntie. You go and get ready for the dinner and I’ll follow you. We’ll eat together,” said Sujata, empathetically.

“I don’t feel like being hungry. I’ve hunger for peace only, dear.Can you feed me with peace?”

“I’ve come for that, auntie, and you’ll get back peace and joy, certainly.”

“I cannot believe I’m so lucky.”

“You’re lucky; your daughter’s come to stay with you. Your baby will resurrect in the clinic where she’s born.Recall, auntie, she’s born on 10^th September and tomorrow’s 10^th September, only the year’s different.”

“Are you sure?” asked Anupama like a child.

“Let tomorrow come. Now it’s time for dinner and then we’ll sleep together. Am I also not your child?”

“You’re, I feel it, believe me.”

“Well, let’s eat and have rest in sleep till the next sunrise.”

Like a pre-school girl Anupama followed Sujata, and after dinner they went to bed.Sujata cajoled her into sleep. (continued on 5 February 2015)

She Won't Reveal 37

             She Won’t Reveal (37)

                      Nidhu Bhusan Das

 “Good Samaritan Hospitalized” is the headline on the front page of The Telegraph now on the parlour table in the bungalow. It’s a news-story with the photo of Dr. Arindam Chatterjee which has drawn the attention of Anu.The story runs: Dr. Arindam Chatterjee, Chief Cardiologist at Belle Vue Clinic, Kolkata, well-known also as a philanthropist was admitted at the clinic with severe chest pain last night. He felt the pain while visiting patients at the nursing home.His wife Dr. Anupama Chatterjee, a renowned paediatrician of the city said he has been in pain and gloom since their only daughter left for the north-east a couple of years ago to serve LIC as an officer. She said they feel so lonely. They run a charitable trust and a dispensary at home in Salt Lake. People crowd the visitors’ room of the clinic to know about the latest condition of Dr. Chatterjee, and medical bulletins are issued for the curious fans and beneficiaries of the cardiologist.”

        “Oh my God! “Anu cried. In the silence of the morning the piercing cry was heard by everybody in the house and all rushed to the parlour.”What Happened?” asked Sujata, shaken.Anu handed the newspaper and said,” See!” She wasn’t prepared for such news. The parents of Anu love her so much and she’s aware of their goodness and humanitarian services. She couldn’t understand why Anu felt neglected. “We should rush to Kolkata.Switch on your phone and make a call to auntie. She must have called you,” Sujata said, anxious and rang up Anu’s mother.” Hello Sujata, where’s Anu. Her phone’s switched off. Do you know what happened?” said Dr. Anupama in a breath.

“Yes auntie, just now we’ve seen in the Telegraph. I’m with Anu at her bungalow,”Sujata replied and said,”Anu’s so upset. She’s going to call you. We shall rush to you soon.”Anu called her mother and was sobbing,”Maa, we’re coming. Leaving for Guwahati and catch the available flight,” said Anu.A profound gloom enveloped the house.

          Professor Sanyal decided Anu and Sujata should rush to Kolkata immediately. He booked air tickets and called a taxi to rush to Guwahati.The flight was at 3 p.m.They’d go straight to Belle Vue from Dumdum Airport.

         Anu called Prafullada and Angshu.She apprised them of the situation and said that she’d to leave immediately for Kolkata. They shared her concern and volunteered to do whatever she wanted. She told them not to allow anybody in the bungalow except those who are beneficiaries of her charitable trust. Anu has a tribal welfare project under Arindam-Anupama Charitable Trust. None has cared for the nomenclature so far. The beneficiaries know only their sister Anu who cannot leave the place, among other reasons, because of the fact that they wouldn’t have her away.

      The taxi arrived.Anu, Sujata and Prof.Sanyal boarded it, all in gloom.Prafullada and Angshu bade them adieu wiping their tears. It appeared to Prafullada that the plants and flowers of the garden stooped in sadness and birds forgot to chirp in the morning which was unusual.Prafullada knows animals can foresee the impending calamity like earthquake.So,he began to think what could be the reason for the birds to become silent.” Is it that Anu won’t be able to come back to live in the bungalow?” he tried to understand.

       The taxi gathered speed as Anu looked back till the bungalow was in sight. She remembered how she thought of living in the bungalow till her last day and how fond she was of the garden she’d planned and Prafullada laid out with utmost care and emotional attachment. Her mother came, stayed with her in the bungalow and appreciated the garden, spent a lot of time sitting at the garden table reading and talking with Prafullada.Papa did never come to see how she lived away from him. She decided she’d never go back to Kolkata but now the news of her father’s illness has changed her, and the child Anu’s resurrected. Waking from a reverie she now rang up her mom:” Hello Maa how’s papa!”

“On ventilation. Don’t know what’s going to happen,” replied Dr.Anupama, her voice wet and tired.

“We’re on the way, Maa. Don’t worry. I’ll be with you by 5.30 p.m. if the flight isn’t late,” she tried to console her mother.

Anu’s still emotional, and the emotion’s positive. She’s responsive. In the journey of life turns come when turnaround occurs under the pressure of circumstances. She remembers during her short visit her mother never mentioned the past and told her to accompany her back to Kolkata.The mother wouldn’t intrude upon her daughter’s free thinking. The parents always acquiesced to her decision.” Was it because they dared not come in her way?” she tries to understand. Till date she’s enjoyed being free-wheeling. Now she feels it was her headstrong nature that deterred them.Anu’s in introspection as she goes back to his critically ill father. She never saw her father ill and he never looked angry.” I don’t know how he would react when I’ll be beside his bed, perhaps, rubbing his forehead with my hand,” she begins to think.” Will he smile in joy, or close his eyes, and tears will gush forth?” she isn’t sure.”Anu, see we’re near Guwahati 30 minutes away from the flat. It’s 11.30.a.m. We’ll have lunch and then rest. Start for the airport at1.30 p.m,”said Sujata taking her hand.” That will be the right thing to do, Beti,”Said the professor. So long they let Anu be alone and undisturbed in her spell of nostalgia.

“Papa, do you think my papa back home will smile when he sees me beside his bed?” Anu asked the professor, uncertain.

”Why not, Beti? He’ll be happy, and his joy will know no know bounds,” assured the professor.

” But I wasn’t good to him,”Anu confessed.

” But your papa mustn’t take note of that. He knows you are a child and, therefore, could be naughty. A naughty child is the most loved one of the parents, Beti,”explained the professor.

” I’ve been the cause of his agony, and he shouldn’t forget and forgive me,” she opined.

” You’ll find yourself wrong, Beti, once you’re with him. Your presence will be a healing touch for him, and he’ll recover rapidly when you’re beside him,” the professor was certain.

The taxi was now at the destination. They disembarked. Sujata took the hand of Anu and climbed the stairs slowly, the professor following.Sujata has never found Anu so much broken-down and gloomy.” Is it a sense of guilt has a crippling effect on her?” thought Sujata.The newspaper reported quoting her mother that her father had been in ‘pain and gloom’ since Anu left them two years from now. “This could have brought in her the realization that she’s the cause of his illness,” Sujata argued.

“Anu, dear, don’t be gloomy, everything will be okay. We’ll find uncle has come round. Let’s have dinner. My son has ordered by phone and it will come soon. Go wash, here’s the towel,”Sujata cajoled and handed her the towel.

“Are you sure papa will come round? I’ll never again be naughty with him, I promise,” Anu sobbed.

“He loves you. He knows in his heart you’re going to be with him. So, he will come round to see you happy,”Sujata predicted, meaningfully.

“I’m responsible for his illness, amn’t I?” Anu repented.

The three were together at lunch. The professor consoled Anu,”Beti, I’m sure your papa loves you so much and he will be so happy to see you. Stay back with him.” Anu acquiesced but didn’t know how the situation would evolve. ( continued on  29 January 2015)

She Won't Reveal 36

             She Won’t Reveal (36)

                      Nidhu Bhusan Das

Anu’d told Sujata she’d like to spend a few days with them in Guwahati in the tranquility of their company.” I’ll have to decide on my future roadmap. I cannot continue with the life I’ve led since my break-up with Arup.I’m now in a blind alley. I need guidence, and it’s from you two, Sujata,” said Anu entreatingly.Sujata reassured her of their being with her, always.” Let’s discuss the whole issue after dinner tonight. We understand you need a break to chart out your future course of life,” Sujata said and added lovingly,” My naughty buddy, we’re still so naughty, ain’t we?” They embraced each other in joy that glistened in the tears that rolled down their cheeks. Professor Sanyal entered the room and was relieved to see the cathartic moment.

                 The three had now the same thought- rehabilitation, and every one of them had different ideas as to how it’s possible.Anu’s mind’s turbulent. Her thought’s clouded by alternatives like going back to Arup, to the ageing parents or to a secluded corner of the Himalayas. A debate’s going on in her troubled psyche.

“Should I forget the vow and go back to Arup?”

“You shouldn’t and cannot to the perils of Mita,” murmured the alternative voice.

“Why? Arup’s eager to get me back.”

“It’s a sin on his part. Why would you be party to it?”

“Should I go back to my parents?”

“Why did you leave them? Didn’t they bring you to this world, nurture you and want to make you an accomplished person with good education and upbringing?”

“I don’t know, am confused.”

“Look back, try to understand. You’ve done injustice to them. They’re ageing quickly, and you’ve been the cause of their anxiety and agony.”

                   She looked back. It’s 2000 A.D. They’re in class VIII in two neighbouring convent schools. Every late afternoon Arup would come visit Anu.They’d talk, eat and stroll till it’s time to go back to the hostel. Anu had the date and day etched in her memory. It’s 7^th November, Thursday.Arup came with a red rose, and offered it to Anu.She felt a new sensation. It’s wonderful. She felt the rose meant a lot. It bore to her the message,” Young lady, you’ve a meaningful future, someone’s come to love you which promises a family of your own. This was the first expression of love that turned the two pals into lovers. At a secluded corner they kissed when the sun’s going down in the west. The romance continued for five years and ended in 2005 when Arup informed he’s going to the USA the next day to study medicine. Arup offered the rose, and she kept it fresh with her tenderness all those years and then he took it away from her.Anu broke down as her dream deflated. She couldn’t understand Arup’d a different dream to build a career, not a home.”No, I cannot go back to one who doesn’t have the dream to build a home,” she understood.

                 No, her parents never interfered with her love relation with Arup.They didn’t encourage it either. When Arup’d visit Anu at their home, they’d treat him well, as the friend of the daughter deserved. They would like her to achieve academic excellence. They’re disappointed when she didn’t go for the study of medicine after qualifying in the Joint Entrance Exam. But they never let her know or understand they’re displeased or frustrated.” I shouldn’t blame them. True, I didn’t get their care as expected. But they’re busy not only professionally but also in humanitarian service for the poor and the destitute. I should have appreciated their role of a Good Samaritan. They did everything for my education but I failed to give importance to their sense of duty as parents as Arup couldn’t do justice to my love,” she analyzed. She’d now a holistic view.

“Is Anu serious? She’s the tendency to take odd decisions,” thought Sujata, puzzled.

“She said she’s in a blind alley now,” remembered Anu’s pal.

“Reconciliation with parents can help her restore peace of mind and stability in life.”

“She must have understood the vicissitudes and meaning of life,” Sujata tried to understand.

“So what she’s said cannot be an equivocation,”Sujata concluded.

The professor’s sure Anu’s come to understand the way of life.” Crises have firmed her up, and she can no longer afford to be mercurial and impulsive. Definitely she’ll go back to her parents.”

“Well Beti and Maa, no more going back, let’s go have lunch,” he suggested.

The three went downstairs to the dining room and Anu called Prafullada and Angshu.They’d a simple but enjoyable lunch and Anu volunteered to serve. The professor said he’d be fed by his Beti.Anu’s pleased and fed her papa. She hid her remorse that she never tried to be intimate with her father and understand him.

               The professor suggested after a one hour post-lunch rest they should have a session on light talk on life and self-criticism. Anu leaped to the suggestion and everyone agreed.

At three p.m. they sat in the drawing room.Prafullada and Angshu prepared Darjeeling in a pot and brought it for all to enjoy. The tea’s refreshing in the ambience of early evening. The session began over tea. The professor cracked the first joke.

“You see, I’m a bachelor. Do you know why? Because the girl I chose to wed was no more.”

“I’m a spinster and will remain so. They ask me why. Love’s foreign to millennial boys,” said Sujata.

“I adore celibacy, yet I feel the prick and tickle of love. Do you know why? Telepathy works on me. The boy I loved is so nostalgic,” said Anu with a sad smile.

The professor cracked a joke:” A friend of mine returned from a foreign trip, and asked his wife: Do I look like a foreigner?”

“No, not at all. Why?” asked the wife.

“In Moscow a lady asked me, Hey! Are you a foreigner?”

The telephone of Sujata rang. She set the speaker and voice recorder on for all to hear and record what Anuradha would say.”Auntie, we’ve married. Give ma’am the good news.”

“Whom have you married?”

“Why, it is Maqbool.We’ve registered this afternoon.”

“You said the other day Maqbool’s in Amlarem.Where are you?”

“I’ve been with him three days now. We’re happy together. Bless me, auntie.”

“Have your parents blessed you?”

“How can they? I’ve left them. Maybe, they’re looking for me.”

“Seek the blessings of Maqbool’s father and mothers. That will help, wicked girl,” Sujata told angrily.

“Auntie, Nilu ma’am helped us get registered. She’s so good and influential. We’ll leave for Delhi together in the same flight day after tomorrow.”

“Had you ever been to Delhi earlier?”

“No, it’ll be an exciting time over there. Jerry sir told he would take me to Arupda.”

“Who’s Arupda?”

“Why, bf of Anu ma’am.”

“All nonsense! Who told you?”

“Ma’am herself told me. She also said she longed for being with him.”

“Stop talking nonsense. You’re a liar,” thrashed Sujata and hung up.

                Everyone in the room heard thunder-struck the girl talking shamelessly.Anu’s relieved that Anuradha’d chosen her future alone, and she wasn’t a party to it.” Thank God!” she exclaimed and requested Prafullada to get evening tea ready.” God’s with us Beti,”said the professor.”Papa, I’m vindicated,” said Anu smiling. ( continued on 22 January 2015)

She Won't Reveal 35

        She Won’t Reveal (35)

                    Nidhu Bhusan Das

                                                                                   

After lunch they had a pleasant rest in the bed under the blanket naked and clasping each other with love juice oozing out.Anuradha exclaimed,” How’s that, dear, we’re made for each other!” and planted a long kiss on his lips.” I cannot believe it you’re so passionate and offer so bounteously the joy of being together. I cannot think of being without you, honey,”Maqbool said and rode upon her as she stared at him in appreciation of his Aryan features and stallion virility. They forgot to sleep for hours as they turned their thoughts and emotions into a jocund dream. Caressing her, Maqbool told an hour hence they’d go visit the Tyrshi Fall on the Shillong-Jowai Road. Licking her nipples, he said,”Tyrshi looks like a cascade of milk.” Anuradha’s so happy at the prospect.” You’d find many visitors like us, and, I’m sure they’d look at my darling with envy. What would you do if anyone of them tries to take you away from me?” he pampered her. “I’d rather die than leave you, dear,” she assured him. One hour glided by in fun and games.

                 The fall’s really enchanting. Anuradha had a fantastic feeling:” The music of the cascading water’s like the music of rocking together which gives supreme joy.” They enjoyed the warmth and breath of each other. Back to the room with the music lingering in their memory, they washed and put on night gowns.Anuradha’s so happy wearing the gown Maqbool bought for her today. She looked more elegant with it on. Her eyes glowed and the face sparkled like the water falling down the rock at Tyrshi.Abed before dinner, now they’re in amorous talk.

“Ah! What a music,” exclaimed Anuradha.

“Aye! It’s really great,” agreed Maqbool.

“Mmm! You’ve taken me to a great site.”

“Mwah! I’m for you, dear, for ever,” said Maqbool, kissing her.

“Uh-huh! I know, you’re only for me.”

“Whee!” he exclaimed and nudged her.

“Wow! You’re so naughty.”

“Oops! I didn’t mean to be naughty, honey.”

“Yahoo! It’s okay. Let’s go on doing it,” she suggested.

Now they remembered the strange meeting at Tyrshi Fall with newly wed Nilu and Jerry. The two couples were walking side by side unaware of each other. When Anuradha hit a side-stone and stumbled, Nilu helped her stand. Thus they came to talk.

“I’m Nilu from this place, and he’s Jerry, my hubby from New Delhi.”

“I’m Anuradha from Jalpaiguri, and he’s my hubby Maqbool from Delhi.”

“Then you know, probably, Anu of LIC here?” Maqbool asked Nilu.

“Know her! Everyone knows she’s a bitch, high priced,” Nilu grimaced and asked,” How do you know her?”

“No, no…we don’t know her. We’ve heard of her here only,” Maqbool hid the fact.

“She’s well-known, isn’t it ma’am?” Anuradha asked in an ironical tone.

“Of course well-known ‘cause she stumbles upon and traps those who’re resourceful,”Nilu’s oblique.

“She must be a nice personality.”

“Yes, she appears to be as she provides high priced service called GFE.”

“What’s GFE ma’am?” asked Anuradha, curious.

“Short for Girl Friend Experience.”

“Won’t you elaborate, ma’am?”

“She provides service acting as a girl friend. She is a provider.”

“Interesting!” said Anuradha with a sardonic grin.

During the conversation the face of Maqbool turned serious while Jerry enjoyed it. Jerry’s happy that his wife’s vindictive against Anu who’d insulted him.” Why is your man so serious at the talk on the hooker?” Nilu asked Anuradha.

“He cannot think a girl can be like that. He’s too honest to believe it,” Anuradha complimented her Hercules.Nilu invited Maqbool and Anuradha to lunch the next day at their home. The topic of Anu might have brought the two girls closer. Women’re extremely spiteful when selfishness and jealousy drive them. Anuradha’s driven by selfishness as she wanted to have the exclusive right to her man who’s inclined to  Anu.Nilu’s jealous of Anu’s virtuous way of life. Both the girls were like serpents for Anu who innocently befriended and trusted them. Both Nilu and Anuradha are lascivious, and both have ambition to go high to the top circuit of social recognition through their chosen men. Both have the fear that their men may veer round to Anu who’s their friend during student life. So, the two girls tend to come into a coalition to spread canard against Anu.They couldn’t afford to lose their athletic and resourceful men to anyone. Fear led them to desperation.

Maqbool’s now convinced Anu didn’t have the respect and reputation as he had the belief. He took Nilu to be a graceful girl with accomplishments. It’s beyond his knowledge that Nilu’s once a trusted friend of Anu, and she wanted to use Anu’s Delhi connections to fulfill her academic dreams. He didn’t know Jerry could be her catch through that connection. “How do you like Nilu, darling?” he asked Anuradha rubbing her back and appreciating her profound eyes.

“She’s excellent, wonderful,”replied Anuradha strategically as she’s jealous of her beauty that could attract male attention.

“She’s a nice feature, isn’t it, dear?”

“Yes. But she appears to be ageing quickly,”

“That’s true. I marked shades below her eyes.”

“We may know a lot about Anu from her.”

“I ain’t interested in the bitch.Please don’t utter her name when we’re in heavenly joy,” whispered Maqbool as his hand’s now on the softness between her thighs.

“When shall we register, dear?” asked Anuradha in grave a tone.

“Let it be tomorrow. We may take the help of Nilu,” suggested Maqbool.

Assured, Anuradha came closer and rode on her man. He fondled her a couple of minutes and a dance of harmony began with her leading the activity for the first time during the two days of living together.

Suddenly her phone buzzed.Yes, it’s Nilu.”Ma’am!” she answered.

“How’re you? I’ve come to love you, dear.What about your man. He’s excellent. You must be quite happy with him. Enjoy every moment, dear.It’s precious time for you,” said Nilu in a breath.

“We’re enjoyng.How’s your time, ma’am,” she dared to ask, being indulged.

“We’re together, abed and into each other. Jerry’s a real man.”

“Same here, ma’am.He’s into me. I’m so happy with Maqbool who knows how to make me happy.”

“That’s important. Love materializes in physical contact, isn’t it?”

“Yes, ma’am.We like to register tomorrow. Could you help us, ma’am?

“Why not? It won’t be a problem. We shall have it done before lunch, and get the certificate day after tomorrow. When will you leave for Delhi?

“Day after tomorrow by evening flight.”

“Then we may leave together. I’m talking to the sub-registrar right now for the arrangements. You must be ready for the registrar’s office before 10 a.m. tomorrow. We’ll lift you. Don’t be naughty all the night, dear. Bye for now.”

            Anuradha shared the information with Maqbool and continued their joyful activity with double enthusiasm. (to be continued on 15 January 2015 )

She Won't Reveal 34

          She Won’t Reveal (34)

                    Nidhu Bhusan Das

The bungalow rose today early in the morning. By 7 a.m. everyone’s ready for breakfast.Sujata and Anu were in the kitchen. Professor Sanyal’s grave and determined. At 7.30 the breakfast was served. The perfect Bengali menu: Radhaballavi, Chholar Dal and Laal Jhaal Jhaal Alur Dom. Black coffee’s also ready. Prafullada asked Professor Sanyal what they’re to do after breakfast.” Should I be at the gate to say ‘No’ to Maqbool if and when he comes?” he enquired. The professor’s categorical:” You’d be in the garden as usual, and when he comes, take him to the drawing room. I shall face him there. We won’t do anything unusual. Maybe, the girl who telephoned last night did it with a design at the behest of her paramour i.e., to understand how her ma’am reacts; mabe, she invented a fiction.So, we needn’t be extra-cautious.”

              Anu’s thought whirled when she heard her papa say ‘she invented a fiction’. She couldn’t think of such a fiction. In fact, inventing such a fiction’s against her nature, and she hasn’t been a liar. She believed Anuradha who told her of her being a victim of ‘parental neglect’ and an ‘unrequited love’.” Was it all her fiction to win her compassion?” Anu thought seriously. Anu remembered she’d been enamoured with the girl out of compassion as well as for a common understanding of the paranormal. Last 30 October, barely a week after they came into e-friendship, the girl told her of Halloween observed in different parts of the world on 31 October as an occasion for honouring the saints and praying for the recently departed souls who have yet to reach Heaven. They found it to be a paranormal phenomenon linked with tantric sadhana. Anu found it difficult to think that the girl could have invented a fiction. Since then their conversation had been limited to unrequited love and Tantra sadhana.They exchanged their ideas and experience on these two topics.” Should I ring up my uncle at Jalpaiguri to request him to enquire about the girl,” thought Anu.

While Anu’s so preoccupied, Prafullada led Maqbool into the drawing room. Also, he called Professor Sanyal.At the same time, the telephone of Sujata buzzed.Yes, it’s Anuradha who said calmly,” Auntie, Maqbool’s in. He’s claimed he will expose the notoriety of ma’am.” The tone of the girl appeared to be tricky.” Is the girl in connivance with Maqbool to blackmail Anu,” she thought, puzzled.” How could the girl remain updated about the movements and activities of Maqbool? Would you call it her tantric capacity?” she asked Anu, disturbed.Anu’d no answer.”See, how you’ve invited trouble,” she reprimanded Anu. Anu sat head down like a brooding statue.

               Below in the drawing room, Professor Sanyal’s face to face with Maqbool who insisted on seeing Anu : “I’d like to see her. She’s a cheat. I would question her about her amorous relation with me. She proposed to me and promised to marry me. She also asked Anuradha to marry me with the commitment that I’d be their common husband. She cannot renege on this commitment. Should she? Would you support it?” The professor asked for proof to establish his claim.” She’s my proof. Bring her before me. Let her answer my questions. She’ll definitely betray her guilty conscience. Definitely she’ll, I tell you,” he said emphatically.

“It’s easy to see a girl fumble vis-à-vis such allegations, and that cannot be the proof of her guilt,” countered the professor like an ace lawyer.

 “I can produce a witness if you allow,” said the boy.

“Who’s the person?” asked the professor.

“Anu knows her?”

“Could you name her?”

“She’s Anuradha.”

“Where’s she now and how is she related with you?”

“She’s in the hotel here.Anu’s chosen her as one of my spouses.”

“Is she your spouse?”

“She’s going to be, along with Anu.”

“Then you feel comfortable being in bigamy!”

“It’s Anu’s decision.”

“Absurd. Anu’s for remaining a spinster.”

“She tells so, but is very much in love and for having her own family.”

“You might have misread her.”

“Should I tell Anuradha to come straight here? She’s ready to depose and expose the tangle.”

“When did you come to Amlarem?”

“Last evening, Anuradha and I.”

“You put up in a hotel, perhaps.”

“Yes, in one room since we’re virtually partners-in-life, already.”

“It’s immoral. Such a girl cannot be relied on as a witness. Perverts cannot be reliable witnesses against an innocent girl with a high moral standard.”

“You’re shielding Anu who isn’t at all innocent.”

“I would tell you to leave the place at once. Be happy with that pervert ...”

“Won’t you allow me to talk to Anu?”

“Don’t you understand? You’ve sufficient intelligence.”

                 Maqbool couldn’t withstand the determined effort and precise argument of the professor. He wasn’t ready to face such an astute and suave personality. He thought he’d find Anu alone and defenceless. In fact, Anuradha telephoned Anu to know about the situation. When her call was answered by Sujata, rather harshly, she’s happy really.Maqbool’s confident he’d be able to deal with the two girls. He’s unaware that Anuradha wanted his offensive to fail. She’s reluctant to share her bed with Anu. The masculinity of Maqbool she experienced during love making last night made her more determined. Throughout the night she did everything to win the heart and mind of Maqbool, tried every posture as desired by her man to his entire satisfaction. The pent up desire of the girl burst forth like a geyser, and Maqbool enjoyed her lasciviousness to his heart’s content. But he wanted both of them. He couldn’t forget the pleasure of Anu poking her finger into his dimple during the college days.

                 He went out of the bungalow frustrated and face downcast.Anuradha’s awaiting him in the hotel room with bated breath. She was leafing through the pages of porno magazines Playboy and Penthouse Maqbool bought for her. She’s again so much aroused. He went straight to the hotel and into the room. The doorbell rang and Anuradha leaped out of the bed and opened the door. She closed the door the moment he’s in, hugged him tight, dragged him onto the bed, began kissing him wildly.Maqbool responded wildly, stripped her and himself in a trice and made love for about ten minutes. After the round of wild fun, he narrated what happened at the bungalow. Anuradha’s relieved.

“Honey, forget that bitch.Can’t I satisfy you. Am I not enough for your love and lust?” she asked with overflowing emotion and kisses profuse.

            “You’re my bitch, dear; I’m so happy with you. I thought you’d not be able to withstand my pressure. Now I understand you’re enough,” he said passionately and began to lick her all through, front and back. They’d the second round before going to the bath tub where they’d another round for about half-an-hour.Anuradha's happy that she could win his approval of her capacity. They decided they would stay there for another day to sync their joy with the Himalayan beauty. But Anuradha couldn’t but be suspicious:” Is it that Maqbool’s still hope against hope to have Anu?”

              Back in the bungalow, everyone’s relieved.Sujata and the professor made Anu understand that Anuradha’s very much in the conspiracy against her. Anu had no doubt about it when the professor reported that Maqbool wanted to fetch the girl from the hotel, and that the boy told they’re living in the same room claiming they’re virtually husband and wife.” She must have telephoned from time to time to know and understand if you’re defenceless, and came to blackmail you thinking you’d be found a lame duck,” explained Sujata.( continued on 8th January 2015)