Meera chapter 10

Sunday morning# Alarm snooze @ 7 AM# Eyes wide open # Happy smile on face#

This was a new avatar of Meera. After leaving Chirag in Lucknow, she never felt at peace with herself. Things were changing now. She had an admirer and she could say that because in the last one week she had multiple conversations with Sid. Even then one part of her brain kept saying please go slow as those things which happens so quick are usually a disaster.

But this time it was different. She was with a mature man, Sid was almost 33 years old and was well educated from a renowned university. He used to work as a manager at his previous firm from where he decided to quit to start his business. He was smart, decent , knowledgeable and hardworking = all the things Meera wanted in her guy.

She jumped out of bed in a hurry and realized its only 7 and she is not meeting him until mid day so there was a hell lot of time to start getting ready. But time was her enemy as it moved as slow as it could and she did not want to ping him as she didn't want to express her desperation to him. After several cups of coffee and a face pack later, she decided to start getting ready. After an hour while checking herself in mirror she ticked a mental checklist, Hair- well straightened, Makeup- Subtle, Dress- nice jeans and blue blouse which she brought from Zara for this day, it was made up of crochet kind of stitch and was slightly see through, Shoes- her favorite peep toes, so here she was looking subtle and sexy at the same time.

Within an hour with all the prep she was ready for the big DATE. Only problem was she didn't know if this really was a date.

When she reached the pre-decided coffee-shop in Khan Market Sid was already there. It was quite evident from his gesture that he was pleased to see her. They both hugged in a slight awkward way.

Sid while complementing Meera: You are looking very nice.
Meera thanked him and returned the favor.

The waiter came too quick and placed two giant menu cards in front of them which  had a funny shape of Wine Bottle and served them their drinks. It seemed Sid had pre ordered two fruit crushes for both of them.

Meera: Hmmm so finally we meet.
Sid: Yup. I cant say am not excited coz I am.

Meera: (smiling) I cant say I am not impressed by your manners coz I am.
Sid: oh cmon. These are just small things but ya I would like to do something better for you like finding a decent job.
Meera: So did you find one for me?
Sid: Yes mam. I have a friend and there are openings in his organization. I have given him your number and you will get a call soon. (Sid said proudly)
Meera : Oh wow. Thats great. So now I am really impressed.
Sid: Just take me out for a coffee once you get the job (winked)

Waiter came to take orders and Sid leaned towards Meera and said "Since this is the first time we are together why don't you order? " and Meera thought to herself its really is a date.

She ordered some red pasta, chicken ravioli and mushroom with black beans and left the decision of wine on Sid.

It seemed like a complete shift of character in her. Only few months earlier she was all depressed and bruised from a relationship and today her face was stretched the whole time into a smile. She liked the feeling of sitting with a man who looks at her while eating rather than checking out the girls at next table and who talks to waiter in a polite way instead of treating him like a servant.

Sid waved his hand in front of her face, Hello, what happened? Where are you lost? Am I too bad of a company?

Oh not at all. I was just thinking of something, she replied and decided to pay attention here rather than mentally analyzing things. And just then Sid said, "so what do you like to do next?"  and she replied,"I dont know. Anything is fine with me". "So lets go for a movie if you like or may be we can go to Kingdom of dreams or perhaps for a long drive if you like", he offered.

Ummmm, I think movie would be OK for today as I have to go little early and kingdom of dreams is fun only at night and long drive would not be that fun too in this heat, she said.

So they decided to go for a movie "Queen". The theater was quite far for a road trip and thus they had more time to chat in car. It was unbelievable for her that a man can be so intellectual and sensitive at the same time. Their talk again went to politics and system.

Sid: By cleaning roads, this new party will not be able to develop our country. I know cleaning is required but on a list of priorities they should have new industrial reforms and infrastructural developments and forming new policies to increase the gdp.

I completely agree with you Sid but you are deviating from the topic. Government will make policies but when at grass root level there is corruption then how can they ensure that all the implemented policies are taking effect? she said while defending her party.

Oh dear Meera, just give me a month and I will change your views. I promise you that I will make you a pro for my party and they both laughed about it and headed for movie.

While watching the scene when actor in the movie leave actress a day before wedding Meera realized this is the wrong movie she has chosen to watch with him as she was unable to control her emotions at that time. She was  just like the actress some time back. The only difference was she left him but other than that life was pretty much the same. She took an auto with all her bags while he was asleep in middle of night and went to airport without realizing that her eyes were full tears.  A tear dropped while thinking of that night and watching the actress cry. She wiped it quickly but it was too late and Sid had already seen it.

The later part of movie was heroic and they both enjoyed every bit of it. In parking lot, Sid asked her that why she cried and she felt like this is the right time to tell him about her past but somehow she could not tell him and she just gave a shy smile to is question.

He dropped her home and they both hugged nicely this time. He planted a kiss on her cheek and wished her goodnight.

Meera chapter 9

She reached home and all she could think of was how nice Sid was and that she can still be hopeful to meet someone nice like him after the horrified incident in her past where she was abused and tortured to death. "God, I don't want to think about chirag now. I don't even want to remember his name", she told herself.

She checked her phone at least 100 times to see if he pinged her on whatsapp or chaton or did he send her a friends request on Facebook. She decided not to send request first or call first or message first as that has always led her in wrong paths before. She decided to be patient and wait for him to show that he is also interested like she is. The wait was over when she came back from office the next day and decided to login to her Gmail account and here it was - an email from Sid. Shit why didn't I check my Gmail account, she thought.

It read -

Hi, just got up from a long sleep after reaching home.I was thinking about our chat yesterday and now I am wondering if that's why I got lot of dreams last night. But it should wear off soon.  I am unable to find you on Facebook so please send me your link and also I am not on whats app but will download and let you know - not sure if I will stick there though :)

She read over and over again these 5 lines and the first thing she did was to send him a friends request. Ofcourse she had already found him on Facebook but was only being patient. Now she could not be more patient. And voila, he was online so instant approval and they started chatting instantly.

Meera: Hi, glad to see your mail. I hardly login to this id but I am glad I did today.

Sid: Thank you for adding me on Facebook, Why your id was not searchable?

Meera: I have privacy settings thats why. So how are you?

Sid: I am fine. My dog is behaving weird, he is not recognizing me at all.

Meera: Give him sometime. He must have missed you a lot when you were not there and therefore may be throwing tantrums.

Sid: ya you are right. But I am so glad, I am finally on my bed. I just don't get sleep anywhere else.

Meera: Oh, I thought you didn't sleep nicely last night due to dreams.(she hoped silently that he meant her when he wrote that line)

Sid: Ya I know its strange. Usually I dont get that many dreams but dont know how this happened.

At night around 7:45, Sid called on her cell phone. 

Hi.

Hi.

Sid:So whatsup?

Meera: Nothing. I just finished writing my blog.

Sid: I guess I asked you to send me your blog address. 

Meera: Ya... actually its private, I mean except for some close friends, no body knows about that address. I want the blog to be popular in real way.

Sid: Well, ok, But I still want to read it.

Meera: hmmm, ok give me some days. I will send you the link. So what are you up to?

Sid: Nothing. Just planning to go for a movie.

Meera: Which one?

Sid: Highway. Have you seen it.

Meera: No. I will watch it in some days with a friend(She had no plans of watching and she hoped he would ask her to accompany him for the movie).

Sid: Shoot. I would have asked you to come along but these tickets were booked for some time and now I kind of have to go.

Meera: Ok, have fun. talk to you later then I guess. Even I have to complete this blog now.

Sid: Bye Meera. But ping me once you are free.

After one hour, when she was done with he dinner and was enjoying her green tea, she saw a text from Sid.

Sid: someone was supposed to ping me. :(

she replied,  someone is busy watching a movie. :^

Sid: Relax. Its just a movie. Ping me any time. I will reply. :)

She thought to herself, its going way too fast. Either he is just a flirt or I am misunderstanding everything and she replied, "Hmm that's cool. But you enjoy the movie. Will talk to you later."

Sid: You ditcher. :^

This became a daily ritual. He would call at 7:30 PM and that is the time when she would be returning from her jogging. They would talk for sometime. Since he was working at a start up company, he did not have time limitations with him. He would call as and when he is free and since she was also only working with her NGO those days, she used to enjoy those time out with him.

On that Sunday night, he called at 9 PM and they spoke till 2 AM in the morning. He was an intellectual boy and very engrossed in politics. She on the other hand kept all knowledge of the happenings but her heart for more into developing the society so which made their talks even more interesting. A dedicated government would have got ample amount of ideas if they would have tapped their conversations. 

Finally next weekend, they both decided to meet at a coffee house and he informed her about a job opportunity in one of his friends organization. 

Their meeting was all Meera could think that whole week. She decided everything- from attire to hairdo, even conversed with him in mind for several hours..

Meera chapter 8

2 Months back.

Meera was travelling back from Jaipur after meeting her mother from Shatabdi express that is when she found her seat next to a very handsome man. The train journey is for almost 5 hours from Jaipur to Delhi and hence she felt relieved that she does not have to spend that time chatting with an aunty like she did the last time when all that aunty wanted to talk about was how girls of this generation are proving to be extremely bad daughter in laws and how she was the perfect one who always obeyed her mom in law in her younger times.

While trying to adjust a heavy suitcase on the compartment above their seats she almost lost the balance and trembled with the bag. She felt immensely ashamed at herself for being clumsy in front of a dude. On the other hand, he offered his big and strong hands to help her with the luggage. "Thank you" she said to offer her nice gesture for the help provided by gentleman. "That's all right." he spoke in a very manly voice. "Hi, I am Siddharth. pause. How bout you? " he continued. Not only was he good looking, he had a very hot voice too which suited his tall, dark and handsome personality.

"Hi, I am Meera. ", she replied in a calm and happy voice and hoped that the journey of 5 hours would end enjoyable.

"Wow, what a beautiful name. I guess, I have heard it for the first time in real life. I mean I have heard the name before but only in movies and mythological stories but never in real life." he said excitedly.

"Ya, my grandfather kept my name. But it caused quite a stir in family at that time.", she replied.

"Stir? Why?" He was inquisitive.

"Well, if you know about the mythology then the name Meera is associated with sacrifice, loneliness etc and my mother feared that I will end up sacrificing my life for someone I love and will not get the usual happy married life", she told genuinely.

"That's just rubbish. Our society has lot of stigma. I am sure name has nothing to do with all those things in life." he further asked, "so what do you do?"

"Nothing actually. I am searching for a job in Delhi. I just moved in the city couple of months back"

"Oh,well I can surely help you with job. I have many friends in Delhi. Send me your resume and I should be able to help you."

"That's great. Thank you. So what do you do Siddharth?"

"You can call me Sid. I have a startup company and I work with a partner. Prior to that I used to work with reggolb corporation. I am not sure if you have heard of them"

"Ya I have heard of them. They are into event management right? "

"Oh yes."

Their conversation was interrupted when the Shatabdi waiter came to offer them breakfast which included some pasta, bread butter jam, eggs and coffee.

"Hmm I like their breakfast.", he said and to that Meera replied only with an Me too smile.

Through rest of the journey, they spoke about everything from their favorite movies, favorite stars, favorite hobbies to bad travelling experiences. She did not forget to include the aunty in conversation she had met last time. They knew that people seated near by are listening to their conversations. From time to time they were realizing the fact that many people are all ears to their talk but they did not care at that time.

By the end of 5 hours, they knew a lot about each other and there were many similarities like they both were avid fans of offbeat Indian cinema with their favorites ranging from water to rang de basanti to Mr and Mrs Iyer. And to the fact that they both were sensitive towards current and crying issues, she being all for the underprivileged children and he was aggressive towards the corrupt and lethargic politics. They exchanged phone numbers and Sid promised to help Meera in finding a job.

That was a perfect journey and there was that moment when they both felt the need to say bye with a hug but it would have been tat bit too much so they both shook hands and promised to keep in touch but at that time all she thought of was the happy time she spent and that how much she adored her new friend and she had no idea that this little meeting could tremble her life way too much then she trembled in train. But at that time he was straightaway to the bucket where she would keep guys who had chance of turning into some one special.

Meera chapter 7

It was soon time for the jaimala and Kiran's mom asked Meera to get Kiran from the car. Meera and Kiran were friends for a long time and Kiran was the only child and from the time her father deserted both her and her mother, they had no contacts with their relatives from fathers side and this left Kiran with only couple of close relatives including her mother's sister, her husband and their 2 handsome son, Jermy and Jared who lived in Ireland with their parents and were here to attend the wedding. So apart from them Meera was the only close person for her at the wedding.

She had asked Maria, Dheeraj and Sujoy to be a part of this custom where you bring the girl out. It was a picture perfect moment when Kiran was brought to the wedding hall with Meera and Maria on her two sides under phulo ki chdar (flower bedsheet) which was held from four corners by Dheeraj, Sujoy, Jared and Jermy. Anurag looks very happy looking at her to be wife. 

The wedding was in its bloom and Jermy asked Meera's help in taking the gifts to a room nearby and as she was walking with a big and heavy box which seemed like some crockery, she got hit by some one in the front and before she could realize anything, the person in front saved the box from falling on the floor and smash into peaces. She was not that horrified from the accident then she was to look at the person standing in front of her. He was Siddharth (Sid). 

Hi! How are you Meera?, Sid asked.

I am good. What are you doing here?

I am a friend of Anurag and actually his business partner before her left for US.

Oh! well that's great. what a small world, Meera said hiding her nervousness.

Yes! Indeed its a small world., Sid replied. Well you look beautiful Meera.

Thanks. Please excuse me, I just need to finish some work and she rushed to the room where she had to keep the stuff.

The wedding progressed beautifully and everyone looked happy. Thats the thing about traditions, you like it or not, it sinks in you and brings out happiness and joy. Time came where Kiran bid buy to everyone and sat in car with Anurag and after 2 days of staying with her in laws she will be moving back to US. There were tears in Kiran's mom's eyes but she was a strong lady and she always knew that one day this day will come. Kiran hugged Meera for a long time and hugged Maria, Sujoy and Dheeraj and helped them for being there with her on this important day of hers.

Right at that moment, Meera felt some shift in her life. Something changed and nothing was going to be same again. Sid was standing next to her and graciously offered a handkerchief but now she has no reason to behave politely with him since the wedding was over so she just moved away from him and went and sat in the Dheeraj's car.

Sid was left to stand alone and wonder and this is exactly what she had planned earlier, to make him hanging like he did to her 2 months back.

Meera Chapter 6

Chapter 6

Soon it was the day of wedding. Kiran was all prepared to look like a wedding diva in her royal red and gold lehanga. She was a dreamer her whole life and had planned her wedding even before she had any idea about the concept of marriage itself. She collected little things for her wedding outfit, for her honeymoon baggage and for her life afterwards. But with passing time, she completely forgot about those things of her imaginations but there is always that someone who knows you little more than you know yourself and in this case, it was Meera and ofcourse it goes without saying that Kiran was the one who knew Meera better than she knew herself.

Giggling sounds were coming from Kiran’s room and Meera understood that to be bride and groom are busy talking their hearts out.  “Are you serious? You told Steven that you will join after one whole week? Wowww. Finally, you are behaving like a lover. I wish I said yes to you earlier”
“Ya, but for that we should have met earlier. Isnt’t it?”
 Again giggles and the chat is disturbed when Meera enters in the room. Meera, snatches the phone, “Look Anurag, in just 24 hours you will take my friend really far, so please give these hours solely to me. Will you?”
“Oh, hey Meera, of course dear. You can have her even after 24 hours. As you know how pestering your this lovely lady is, I would surely love to buy some more time” in a naughty tone, Anuran replied.
“Oh, I so wish she would have heard that. But anyways, now its too late and you are anyways snatching her away so I only need 24 hours and then please for God’s sake, take her away. I am so tired of her.” As Meera told this she got slapped by Kiran on head.

Auch! Meera disconnected the call.

“Ok, so come here. I have something to show to you.”, Meera uncovered the box which she had in her hand, covered with a cloth. “Oh my God! Is it what I think it is? Meera, you still have this? I thought I lost it. Wow.”
“Well, how on earth I can forget it. You know something funny? I actually stole it from your luggage along with that pink top of yours which I always liked, when you were leaving hostel after final year and I kept it with me for this day. But I had no idea that things would be so different when this day would come. I imagined giving you this on our twin wedding. Do you remember how we both planned that we will get married the same day like the movie we watched, “Bride Wars””
“Ya Meera, those days were so dam amazing. Everything was rozy, we had no worries about future or anything for that matter. All we knew was, we should have fun, fall in love, and get married on the same day , have children and get them hooked and married ” Things have changed so much since college.

Anyways, leave all that behind now and open the box. Kiran had moist eyes seeing the things inside the box. It had the decorated red lace for her wedding dress, some sparkling beads for hair, wedding pictures of celebrities, honeymoon suitcase tag saying "we are on our honeymoon", map of Spain where she always dreamt of going with her husband and many such items.  "I never knew that I would not need any of this when I will actually get married. I have got a designer dress and a celebrity makeup artist so using the things from this box is of no question, spain- well no holidays so no honeymoon" ,she felt very sad for a moment.

Kiran, you know something? Those days, you planned of everything possible but without a partner. have you imagined, how stressful it could have been if you were with a wrong person holidaying in Spain. Now, you are with Anurag, who loves you deeply, and you are going to start a new life with him, start planning fresh. Now, its time that you include a person in your future plannings. I am sure you will have all of the happiness and much much more." They both hugged each other and Meera slides a gift pack to Kiran.

"What is it?"
"open"
"What is it? ts says reservation at vineyard hotel in the town of Sanxenxo. Thats in Spain right? What the hell Meera? Why did you waste your money on this when you know very well that we have no leaves"
"Relax Lady. This is for a future travel. When ever you plan to go there, you can stay in this hotel. This is valid for one year"
Kiran was speechless and just gave a cutish smile to Meera and it was time to start getting dressed up for the wedding.

Meera chapter 5

Chapter 5

Hiiiiiiiiii, Meera jumped 5 inches in surprise when she saw kiran standing at the front door. They both hugged each other tightly. "You are back b*tch, Meera abused". "Yo B*atch I am here. How is the surprise?" and in reply Meera shouted euphorically, "wow Kiran you have no idea how happy I am."
 "Nice, so mam can I come in and how is life at your office? You made any new friends?", Kiran questioned.
"Oh ya, I made couple of friends but you know I take time in making friendship permanent as a Tattoo. Right now, I just feel I am kind of relaxed and I like meeting these people. Rest left to destiny."
Meera snatched Kiran's bags and started finding her gifts and said "so I should be making Arhar Daal and Rice for you, right?"Kiran"
"Yo doll" ,she kissed Meera.
After finishing lunch, while sipping cup of green tea, Kiran broke the news to Meera. "Meera, don't get shocked. I am getting married".
"What? You? Now? WOWWW but who is the guy and when did this happen? Ok wait a minute, is it Anurag? Your Flat mate in US. Isn't it?".
 "Wow darling you are smart, yes it is anu only and I am in Love Meera. In loooove.", KIran made silly school girl sound.
Soon it was the time for stories and Kiran started narrating. At first I did not like him at all. He is a perfect IIT geek and you know how I have always hated these spekies (Guys who wore spectacles). But as we both started sharing the apartment provided by my internship company, I realized how sensitive and caring he was and don't know when we both got attracted towards each other. We started dating and just like that one day on our Paris trip, he asked me for marriage and I just could not say no".
Meera was listening to the perfect romantic story and was realizing how blessed Kiran is to have finally found someone like that. Kiran broke the second news to her that wedding will take place in 15 days as she only got that many leaves and then they both will be returning to The States for a year. This just broke Meera's heart as now she was officially alone and she had no way to look forward in life. But she knew this is for the best as the worst had already past.
So, she pulled herself together and decided to give her best on her bestessst friends wedding. That evening they both went for their favorite golgappas and chat treats. This is how they both used to spend their happy and sad times together during their college days. It was all about love, love they shared with each other, and now this love only shall help them go forward in life. But at some time, you do need to stop a little and question yourself - what is that one thing which you love more than your own self? There has to be something which is above all. This is that same thing which acts as a medicinal relief at times of distress and this is also that thing with which you can spend hours together. It can be a hobby, a pet, a project or something like that.
This is what Meera decided to do. She decided to understand her self better. She knew that everything which she ever thought has changed and its time she also changes. She decided to get back that charm which she used to have once in her. She used to be the most popular face in her college days and so this is how she will spend her coming days. Good or Bad, they are her days. With this thought she turned to her side on bed and fell asleep only to wake up in the morning with a fresh attitude towards life.

Meera Chapter 4

Chapter 4

Are you serious? You really are single? Sujoy behaved like Meera did not belong to this clan and he certainly was not able to understand that why a pretty girl like Meera is single. Listen Sujoy, its my personal life and I would appreciate if you would let me keep it that way. She said and walked away to the pantry area to refill her bottle of water. Sujoy followed her and she did not realize that he was standing right behind her. As she turned she was startled, Shit what the hell are you doing here? Meera darling please, you have to make me understand that why are you single and then even if you are then why don't you hang out more with people. I mean how on earth will you meet someone? Irritatingly Meera replied, dude its none of your business and walked away.
Sitting at her desk she was thinking why is it so hard for someone to just accept your status. Why are people so bothered to know about the painful parts of your life. Do they really want to sympathize with you or just mock you behind your back. Hey girl, lets go, Maria intervened and stopped the flow of thoughts Meera was in at that moment. They both had planned a movie date together. Somehow Maria was the comfort zone for her. In these 5 weeks, they both became quite good friends. Even Dheeraj was with them most of the time but he chose to remain mostly silent.
Don't you just love Bradley Cooper dear. Ya of course he is damm hot, both giggled as they reached the theater to watch the latest Oscar winning movie of their favorite star. Sweetheart, don't worry about Sujoy, he is just too much into others lives. Trust me, he is not that bad otherwise, Maria tried comforting her while buying big bucket of popcorns. Maria looked pretty with her tall and athletic figure. She did not look a lot like a usual Delhite girl who is fair as fair and lovely add girls and would chatter all the time about the hot looking guy she is dating and is planning to date and that was the reason she always stood out and may be that is why precisely Meera chose to be her friend rather then other hotties at work who looked hot but could only talk about nothing more than nonsense. So were the guys, Meera actually was surprised to see guys gossip more than girls unlike Dheeraj, who was very decent, smart looking , well mannered and a trust worthy friend.
Its almost 8 PM by the time movie was over and both the girls stood outside mall as Maria wanted to smoke before taking the metro. Just a few steps in front of them there were some guys standing and they started commenting on Maria. Oh what a chik! lets go out babe, and started passing more lewd comments about her smoking in public and her attitude which would mean as per them that she is a slut and sleeps with every men who approaches her.
Maria lets go from here. I don't think we should be standing here. Meera, can you just keep quiet. I want to listen everything they are saying. It is best to just ignore and leave. Delhi is not safe city to take such risks. Shhhhh, can you just stay mum, Maria was upto something. Meera didn't realize that all this while she was actually recording all this and was pinging to someone on whatsapp. Within almost 10 minutes, 2 cars came and around 7 girls out of which 3 were from their office got down and they came straight to Maria. Now all these 8 "chiks" walked towards those 4 loosers and stared at them. They gave them the most lustiest stare ever, starting at their pego, lips and chest. These guys were ashamed of there sexuality at that moment. It was evident in their eyes that they were scared of the unknown. They did not know what will happen next, but they feared whatever it will be, it will not be something which has happened earlier with them. One of the daring men screamed and said tu janti nai hai mere bande kitne khatarnaak hai. Abhi bulata hun. Chodunga nai main. (You don't have any idea how strong my fellow men are. I will call them and will show you what can I do). All girls moved closer to these men without saying a word and the macho one's started getting insecured and were intimidated and started moved back. Dheeraj came out of the car and grabbed collar of one of the men and while looking straight into his eye he said, saale ab kaha gaya tera dam (Abuse, where is your strength  now ?).

Dheeraj showed the entire clip to them which was recorded on their cell phones and told them now this will circulate everywhere and I will make sure that you guys will not be safe anywhere. To that these men started pleading and requested all women to forgive them. Maria spoke and asked these men to shell 1000 rupess per head and they did and ran.

Claps, hugs and laughter, that was the atmosphere in front of the mall. Hey guys what was all that and Dheeraj how did you know about all this, Meera questioned in surprised look. Arrey Meera we started this group in whatsapp last year after that shocking rape incident. We started with 5 members and now there are 28 members in our group "Lets fight back". To that Dheeraj added, ya most of the people are from office and friends of friends. We have also registered our name under NGO listings and therefore we even get police protection if needed. Although we never needed it. So we basically are connected with each other and under such cases, we can just say word "HELP" and tell the exact location and some one or other will be there within 10-15 minutes. Its a pact. And just so you wondered why we collected money then babe, this will go under our management quota and we use this money to fill our petrol, buy safty gears for women in group, do some publicity events etc etc. So we make sure the money comes out from these filthy men only and he winked.

Wow, you guys are doing something amazing, Meera clapped for them. Hey girls let me drop you both till metro station and don't worry Meera, they will not return. So go home and relax now and remember the time to ignore is over now. Now Lets Fight Back and he gave a high five in air.

Meera chapter 3

Its her first day at work and she is all exited while entering the multi storied building. Her office is at 9th floor and she has been directed by the security to take the lift which is towards her aftier crossing the fancy reception area and a Cafe Coffee Day outlet offering hangout place for employees.  Inside lift she is accompanied by 3 strangers, all of them looked very professional to her. They were in tailored suits and carried blackberries with them. She on the other hand, wore a dark blue jeans with buttoned down shirt and loafers. She paid attention in the morning while getting dressed afterall  she was going to work for a multimedia company where the atmosphere was completely relaxed and casual. There was no dress code and was famous for their chilled out working atmosphere.

"Hi, I am Meera, a new joinee." to that security guard responded "Hello mam, please sign the register." He handed over a new joinee badge to her and asked her to wear that around her neck and showed her the way to HR room.

Wow, this is the place for me, she though to herself the moment she entered the office. The walls were pained with cartoon characters in high definition colors, film stars from Hollywood and fancy color pattern. It did not take her time to realize that the major chunk of population was young and peppy.
"You must be Meera? ", HR head Suzzane asked her, "Oh yes! Sorry I did not realize I left the HR room behind. I was so caught up in the view". "Yes we get that a lot from first timers. Well, please come, I will introduce you to your Boss". Meera followed Suzzane in total awe of the place. They went to a tall and handsome Man, Kunal. "Hi, you must be Meera?", Kunal asked, "Yes, nice to meet you."
Kunal turned to his team and introduced Meera to the group of what seemed like 10 people. Hi guys, can I have a minute of your time which you are anyways wasting while browsing Facebook. With giggle, all turned towards Meera and introduced themselves to her one by one. Meera was amazed with the enthusiasm of these guys. Most of them were quit good looking and smart, she could only recollect the names of Ajay, Maria, Dheeraj and Sujoy. They seemed interested in Meera and offered her a seat next to them.
Meera had joined as a design intern and was handed over a power point presentations about the company and work by Kunal for the day. "Sweetheart, I just want you to chill out today. Go through these PPT's and you will have an idea about you work. Well, if you must know, our previous design intern, Kavita quit her job as she and her husband are moving to the states. What a shame but good luck for you as you got a chance here. As you know we hardly hire. The reason, very simple, people hardly quit." and kunal smirked and left.

After a while, Meera was relaxed in her new seating arrangement. She sat next to Dheeraj who was a sindhi lean and tall boy. He looked like a fresh college pass out. "Meera, please be relaxed. These PPT's are pretty self explanatory and if you get stuck at any point then I am here to help. Ask any question at any time, without hesitation", Dheeraj spoke and Meera replied "Thanks a lot Dheeraj" and she got immersed in the PPT. She was amused by this new atmosphere. People were cordial, friendly and lively. She was invited for lunch by Maria and they all shared the lunch while Maria and Sujoy were busy giving Meera tittle-tattle of office romances. They informed her about their boss Kunal and his flirtatious attitude and his smoking hot wife, and about Dheeraj and Charmee on whom he has crush since 2 years, about Maria and her cricketer boyfriend. All in all they accepted Meera in their group and may be this is what she needed.

later that day, while preparing dinner, maggi and mug of tea, Meera was kind of relaxed. She felt less agitated and less anxious about the future which is still dark in front of her. When she found the strength to steal a smile, she will someday find the laughter as well.

Meera Chapter 2

Days are passing by like eternity and she is now realizing, its time to get up and start moving ahead.Its not that she was sitting idle all this while, she was walking the path but not wholeheartedly. She was out there but still not there. There was a silent but grave pain buried inside her which she got used to now. All she wanted on the outside was to shake that feeling and stay happy and content forever but in reality she was used to this pain . She would embrace that as her own and go sleep each night.She would acknowledge that with every sunrise and start the day with that. Yes it was hers and she was scared to let it go. After all she lost her love and desires and passions and got this pain and what if she looses it also now? She was scared to start life again from scratch.

What are you thinking all the time? Asked Kiran to that Meera shook her head and said nothing at all. I am just enjoying my evening tea with you. After all from tomorrow I will have to drink this tea alone. Oh cmon Meera, don't be so sad over this. You were the one who used to love being alone before and now you are sad? Kiran questioned and to that Meera replied, "I am ok dear. Its just that I am used to being around you now and might get lonely as you are going for more than a month". "Yaar even I am feeling sad leaving my city for this long but this course is also important for me. After months of practice I cleared this exam for Yale university and its only for a maximum of 6 months Meera.Time will fly before we will know it.", Kiran replied and to that Meera said "ya that's ok darling and I am sure you will have a nice time there."

Within days, Kiran left country and Meera was alone in a 2 bedroom apartment in Dwarka. She rented the flat with Kiran and basically she started this new life after her 2 years long live in relationship failed miserably. She moved to Delhi from Lucknow with the scars of physical abuse and mental torture. She had to leave her job in Lucknow after she was getting threats from her old lover. So one day she just came from the work and packed her bags and took flight ticket with whatever money she had. While standing at the airport, she decided where to go? Should it be Bangalore, where she used to live before or Jaipur, where her mom lived with their 2 dogs or Delhi, where her best friend lived. After calculating life at each place, she instantly brought ticket to Delhi and in hours she was comforted by her best friend Kiran. She was always welcomed in her house and here she was, all bruised and tortured and willing to start a fresh life.  She felt proud of herself as she was quiet happy to have found a new way but somehow, one actually feels the real pain after some time has passed by like an itch which get worked when it dries and the same happened with Meera. As days passed and the chances of her getting a good job faded and feeling of loneliness sank deeper and deeper that she started getting depressed and started moving inside a shell. She did not realize how much she was changed as a person and how quiet she remained these days. She hardly noticed her tears and only a fewer times she felt the desire to laugh and dance like before.

Its Sunday morning and Meera decided to spend the day at day care center where she went some times. She has always loved children and so when all seemed to fail, she realized she could atleast  give some of her love to these children who have no family of their own. In reality this was the most selfish thing she had done in the recent past as she went to those children to feel happy for sometime instead of the other way round.

Hi didiiiii, all children spoke in chores and to that Meera smiled and hugged them and said lets all go out today and she took then to Lodi gardens where she had planned the whole day with activities like Frisbee, cricket and some team activities. It was then and there while playing with these children that she realized Its Time. Its time to move on. Its time to embrace life. Its time to smile again. Its time to live again. Bad times will always be there and yes I want to be happy and I wanted a happy life with Chirag. I had the whole life planned ahead of me which was filled with love and children and a normal family life. Yes I wanted to be married to him and stay with him forever. But what the hell, so what if it did not work out. I am still me. Yes days are not as per my plan but still its not that bad. I can be resilient and I will be happy. So what if I am alone, I can and I will still happy. With this though, she rejoined the game with children and this time she felt relaxed as ever.

Meera chapter 1

The alarm has snoozed once again. I swipe the screen of my note and switch off the bloody alarm and turn to my left side covering my-now-turned-cold-self completely under the blanket. The whether is quiet cold today as it has just started raining in the month of November in Delhi.

"Meera, for God's sake please get up now, its already 11 AM and you have an interview to attend", my best friend Kiran's voice came screaming.
"I don't want to attend, I don't want to work for any corporate anymore", I said from under the blanket.

"Do as you like as its your life". I heard the main door slam after exactly 5 minutes. I have no will to sleep anymore as I am almost in this world now from my deep slumbering beautiful place. I will not be able to stay put in dreams now and hence 10 minutes later I am standing in front of my bathroom mirror and while brushing my teeth I look at myself in the mirror, "Hmmm, again that same swollen big eyes". So, last night I again slept immersed in my tears. But I dont pay much heed to this as it has now become a ritual these days.

The day has already turned warm as its almost afternoon when I am still drinking my morning tea. Kiran has left me a note on kitchen counter.This has always been our ritual to leave notes and say things we were scared to tell on face. The note stated Dear Meera, please pull yourself together. I heard you sobbing last night and I can't see that again. Please my dear come back to us. Your friend Kiran. Oh God Kiran, you are asking me to stop crying by making me cry, I curse her.

What should I do today? I asked this to myself after I have spent almost 2 hours watching Cook it like Heston on TLC. Why the hell I am watching people living their dreams when my all dreams are shattered and burned. Here I was thinking of spending my day actively and now I am crying my eyes out. At time I feel Kiran should not leave me alone at home as I loose track of life. Just then to make my day even better, I receive a phone call from my mother. At first I feel not to pick up her call but then I felt that maybe she will get worried about me. So I made a very wrong decision and answered her phone without knowing that this call will change many things in my life instantly.

Hi mumma , how are you? and she replies Meera why are you still at home? You were supposed to go for interview today right? Mom says. I reply by saying, no mumma I am not up for a job right now, may be I need some time alone to figure out my next step in life. To which she replies in anger and starts blaming me for not making it big in my life and soon we are fighting over phone. She goes on and on and says things which no mother should tell her daughter at time like these when her most important relationship has sank in deep Indian ocean. I try to persuade her to keep quiet now but she has decided before calling to take it all out and she says it all on to my face.

I disconnect the call in anger and through my Note on sofa and I am crying like a soul cries after seeing its own body dead. Its such a foreign feeling where you feel numb and lost. Like your soul has drifted aside and you are all alone.  I am crying even harder and the feeling of loneliness has sank deep inside now. In a funny way, I am actually not alone now as the feeling of loneliness has decided not to leave me alone. I have become one with it now and it has won over me. I am now speaking its words. I am telling to myself that yes you deserve it Meera, You have always been unlucky in love from the beginning. You have always put your complete self in relationships but have always been dejected. Yes, that's how things have been up till now and its high time you realize that this is your destiny.

Its high time, you make up your mind that no one ever can bring peace and love into your life. So deal with it now. Either you will again fall flat on your face or accept it today that now onward you gotta walk alone. Yes that's what I will do now. I can not let myself get hurt again. Its better that I give my love to those who may need it instead of praying to receive love from someone. Meera, its not for you. After all see Siddharth never called again. I know that you have met him only now but don't you feel its a dead duck. After all he is only finding excuses to stay away from you, my mind is speaking louder then ever. Get up and do the right thing. Delete his number and just get over with this. Never again you will and you should let anyone come closer to you.

I did the exact same thing and included one more step , I even unfriended him from my Facebook account and repeated that no one loves me and no one will ever love me. I am and I should be enough for myself.

To be continued...