Sometimes..........It's too LATE....!!!!!

Chapter Eight

Kavya entered the class and hunted for a spot to sit. She saw a pretty slim girl sitting alone on a nearby bench. She walked towards her and filled the empty space beside her.

"Hey....Kavya here..", Kavya said holding her hand forward.

"Hi... Daisy...", She replied and shook hand with Kavya.

Both took off talking and divulged their whereabouts, their schooling, friends and all which was coming naturally out. Daisy was basically from Mumbai and she lived nearby. It only took her 10 mins to drive college from her home. Kavya and Daisy got themselves comfortable with each other and it seemed they got a friend in one another. While Kavya was engrossed in talks with her new friend,  the known figure entered the same classroom. His eyes instinctively got busy in the quest of the similar face with whom he just drove into. Within no time he captured that beautiful face just a few benches away from where he was standing. At a snail's pace he got himself occupied a place just in the line where Kavya was sitting. He sat in the corner where Kavya's face was completely visible to him. He couldn't help himself from looking at Kavya. Her almond shaped dark eyes, her silky smooth hair, her alluring smile, her mesmerizing face, all left him beguiled. A sudden jolt at the door made him come back to reality. He couldn't help himself but only smile because even he was puzzled of what was happening to him.

The next three hours went in introduction of their subjects. Teachers came in and introduced themselves and narrated the same old agenda of coming days in college, maintaining discipline, compulsory attendance and all rules and regulations. As it was the first day, Kavya's class ended in four hours.

Kavya texted Yash that she is done with her class and will be waiting for him in the college campus. Yash reverted her within no minutes that it will take him only 10 minutes to join her. Kavya rambled around the college campus to pass the few minutes until Yash comes and accompany her. Whilst Kavya was engaged in getting acquainted with the college compound, the same known figure stood along a short distance, stealing glimpses at her.He desired to go and approach her, but somehow couldn't muster the courage to do so. Getting a last peek of the day at her, he marched towards the exit with the hope of seeing her tomorrow as well.

As soon as Kavya saw Yash coming towards her both of their face was brighten by an inadvertent smile.

"Heyy.... So, how it did go..?? First day... Ehh..??"' Yash asked excitedly.

"Yeah... It was good actually. Teachers came and gave us the same old lecture... blah..blah... And ya made a new friend... Daisy...!!", Kavya replied with exhilaration.

"Ohhhh...Is she hot.. like mera setting lagega kya..??? ", Yash asked playfully.

"Why not... I'll introduce You tomorrow. Now shall we leave..."

Both drove to their respective home with chattering and giggling throughout their journey.

It was past ten when Kavya's mobile phone buzzed with the message of Yash in it.

"Come down.... :)"

Kavya bumped from her sofa and marched downstairs to meet Yash. She saw him sitting on the same bench but minus the usual cheerful face. He seemed a bit upset with something. Kavya occupied the empty space beside him and said, "Hi..." with a broad smile.

Yash replied a "hi" but in a whisper with half smiley face. For the first time there occurred a moment of silence between them. Kavya couldn't take the silence more and summoned to speak.

"Umm... Yash.. Is something bothering you..?? You been..very quiet..!! You can share with me.. whatever it is... Let it come out..!!"

"You would laugh if I tell you. I mean a guy talking those stuff is not usual.", Yash said.

"Try me...!!", Kavya replied.

"Alright, I have a friend. I mean he is my very close buddy. He is in a relationship with some girl. So my friend claim that he is loyal with that girl but the truth is he is not. He is quite flirtatious and pick up any random girl, though with this girl it's been a year. The girl is in illusion that he is loyal to her and is not aware of any of these things. Being his friend I'm confused should I confess this to that girl or let it go. And yes, I have made my friend understand that what he is doing is not legit but all in vain. He is too casual about all this. I don't know what to do Kavya.." Yash replied  in grimace.

"Hmmm...what your heart says you to do..??? Just ask the inner you...What he really want you to do..??"

"I have a strong belief that I should go and confess about this to my friend's girlfriend. This isn't fair to her and her feelings. No one got this right to play with anyone's sentiments"

"Then listen to your inner you. It can never be wrong. And I'm sure your friend will definitely understand why you did it..may be sooner or later but sure he will. Don't worry...!!"

"Yup...U know....that dumb do like her...like more than like but he don't accept it because he is commitment phobic. Who knows, post breakup wo sudhar jaye. And Thank you so much..... I thought you would laugh or react in a weird way..." Yash winked.

"No way.. Infact, I'm so glad that even boys are emotional and they do understand the word 'sentiments'. Generally guys are stereotyped as emotionless and stoic but today I know, there are a few exceptions and I'm pleased to know this.", Kavya grinned.

Kavya was happy to see that Yash's smile was back and this time it wasn't a half smile, it was a genuine full smile. They sat there gazing at one another and sharing those tiny smiles of happiness.

Sometimes............ It's too LATE.....!!!

Chapter Seven

As per her usual routine, Kavya came downstairs to walk past her dinner. Her eyes were searching for Yash as they decided to meet after dinner, but he was yet to come. Kavya sat on the swing of her society garden and waited for Yash to join her. On the other hand Yash preferred coming post Kavya because he liked to get those unknown glimpses of her. Yash came down and started walking leisurely towards Kavya, whereas Kavya was unaware of his arrival because she was lost in the pleasure of swinging along with the cool breeze. As soon as Kavya saw Yash she landed off her swing and screamed "Hi" waving him...!!! She dropped down and started walking towards Yash.

"Wait there, I'll join you....!!", Yash motioned towards Kavya and occupied the other swing. Yash and Kavya again shared some simple smiles to each other as they both somewhere deep down knew, something was changing between them, the only thing they didn't know was whether it was a good change or a bad change.

"You are late Yash... I have been waiting for you ..... Kitna khata hai tu re...", Kavya giggled.

"I know that you were looking for me. Oh.. God, why am I so handsome... These poor little girls.... Phew...!!!!', Yash said mockingly.

"Oh yeah, I understand people live with certain misconceptions... Can't help it. Life is tough sometimes.. ", Kavya quipped.

"Hahahaha.... So funny.. !!", Yash scoffed.

"Anyways, I got my SIM card today. Even texted you, seems you didn't receive my message."

"Is it...!! Let me check my phone."

"Are... I got your message now. Nevermind, I'll save it now. Hey Kavya do you wanna have tea?? ", Yash asked.

"What... Tea and that too now... !! Weirdo... First of all I don't drink tea Yash and where you gonna have your tea now..??? ", Kavya queried.

"Woo.... Hold on.. !! There is a tapri on just 10 mins walking distance from our society. And if you don't like tea you can have coffee. At least try once you gonna love it."

"Hmmmm... Fine... Let's try your tapri wali coffee."

Yash and Kavya both walked leisurely towards the tea stall. They barely talked while walking. Yash could feel the attraction towards her. He never missed the chance of getting a glimpse of her when she wasn't looking at him. Whereas Kavya knew that Yash time and again glanced at her, but she didn't mind at all. She smiled inside, but was hardly able to restrain herself from the blush.

"Boss, ek masala chai aur ek coffee"' Yash ordered.

After a few minutes Yash and Kavya both were holding their tea and coffee respectively.

"Hmmm... Not bad yaar... !!", Kavya said.

"See I told you. You know I always come here after my dinner for this lovely tea and I suppose I'm going to get a company now...", Yash replied.

"Yes for sure..!! I'm glad I came here. The coffee is really nice. Better than those so called coffee shops. So reasonable and tasty too."

"I agree completely.', Yash stated.

Both finished their tea and coffee and prepared to leave. Yash was about to pay when Kavya denied him to pay for her but soon she realized that she wasn't with her wallet.

"Chill Kavya. Okay will make a deal. We would pay alternatively alright.", Yash said.

"Yeah, that will do.", Kavya affirmed.

Both walked back home. Waving bye and wishing each other good night Yash and Kavya entered their home. Kavya went straight to her bed and couldn't stop smiling. Even she was bewildered of what was this smile, blush and feeling were, when a sudden beep of message from her mobile grabbed her attention. Reading the message only escalated her smiling curve.

"Good night Kavya :) "

Yash texted her. Kavya replied the same and both dossed off with a smile on their face.

The next was Kavya's first day of college and as any ordinary girl she was excited and nervous as well. Kavya's mobile ringed the alarm bell and a message tune as well. With squinted eyes, she opened the text and it immediately got her a huge smile. Yes, you all guess it right Yash texted her,

"Good morning.. :) Have a wonderful day..!!"
Kavya typed a Thank you and reverted him. Kavya got her shower and picked the best dress she could. She chose to wear a pink kurta  accessorized with long jhumkas and dark kohl in her eyes. Her hairs were set free, which aptly complimented her attire and personality. Kavya hugged her mom and scurried downstairs where Yash was waiting for her. Yash was already down with headphones plugged in and engrossed in mobile. His rumpled hair and stubble look made him even more desirable and cute. Yash was about to call Kavya when he inadvertently saw her coming towards him. He couldn't set his eyes off to her. Her bouncing hair, glittering earrings and pink kurta surged her beauty.

"Heyy.... Sorry I'm late. Let's move. It's my first day yaar..can't afford to be late.", Kavya said.

"Hmmm....yeah...!! Let's go.", Yash wanted to say that she looked beautiful, but he restrained himself from doing so.

Kavya's hair was dancing to the tune of the air. They unknowingly got their abode on Yash's face as he was just sitting next to Kavya in an auto. Kavya just looked outside and Yash himself glued to her face. Yash knew that he was getting inclined towards Kavya. Those feelings were novel to him, but he didn't mind at all.

Yash's friends were already waiting for him at the college gates and as any close friend, being with a new girl made them goggled. Yash introduced Kavya to his friends and let her inside.

"Sorry for that look from my friends. You know how guys are.. Just ignore... ", Yash said apologetically.

"Haan... I know, but don't be sorry. That's fine.... Chill maar yaar...!!", Kavya winked.

"Okay, listen I have to attend my class so have to leave now. Take the first left and there is your class, room no. 311. Alright....!!", Yash uttered.

"Yeah, Thank you. Meet you after the class. Bye..."

 Yash blinked and waved bye to her. Both moved towards their respective classes.

Kavya kept walking and turned left  as Yash told him to do. Just as she turned left, she bumped into someone which made her almost fall, but the unknown figure held her with hands around her arms and didn't let her fall.  Kavya balanced herself and saw a lean, tall guy with a boyish look standing in front of him. Before the boy could apologize, Kavya uttered Thank you and sorry both to him and walked away. She didn't give him a chance to speak. On the other hand, the boy's eyes walked along with Kavya. He tried to capture every movement of her as far as possible until Kavya found her classroom and disappeared.

Sometimes...... It's Too LATE......!!!

Chapter Six

Smiling sheepishly, Yash walked towards Kavya and perched beside her along the bench.

"So.. Seems somebody was enjoying being alone in this serene aura. Am I bothering someone... Huh...??", Yash quipped.

"Actually, yes, I was enjoying my solitary, but I won't even mind being bothered by you....!!", Kavya chuckled.

"Wow.... Your flirting with me Kavya.... And I kinda...Like it.....", Yash said in amusement.

"Really...mere itne bure din nahi aaye... That I would flirt with you....  So back off...", Kavya said mockingly. 

"Ohhhhh.... My Bad...", Yash replied, making a puppy face.

He looked cute with that expression. His messy hair totally complimenting the little stubble on his jaw line. The Yellow T-shirt with a cartoon of Sponge Bob on it, was just doing the task of elevating his cuteness meter. Kavya nudged him and said,

"God, Yash this is sheer over acting. Be natural, only then you can charm girls."

"Ohh...Hello Miss Kavya... I can beguile them with just one look. I don't have to work hard You see. I'm a killer..", Yash winked at her with self-appraising eyes.

"Huh... You guys are just so impossible. The moment someone question your charismatic qualities, it just pinches you and straight affects your male ego.", Kavya snorted.

"Hold on... You're just taking me wrong Kavya. I was just kidding. Attempting to have a laughter moment, that's it. I don't understand where the hell did this ego came into the picture...", Yash said with clearly depicting dismay.

Kavya was now feeling really awful because she didn't mean to offend him. She was simply trying to pull his leg.

"Yash, chill I wasn't serious. Pulling your leg that's it. You held it way seriously dude. I didn't mean any of my words... Sorry...!!", Kavya said.

Yash looked away from her. This made Kavya feel nervous and yet more terrible. The fright of losing the only friend seeped in Kavya. All of a sudden Yash roared with laughter. Kavya looked at him in bewilderment. 

"Gotcha.... Again...!!!!", Yash replied with laughing even harder.

"Kamine..... I'm gonna kill you...", Kavya hit Yash on his shoulder and then both came back to their tee-ha moment.

"Achha listen, where will I find my books and all the stationary things...??? Reasonable and handy...!!", Kavya asked.

"There is a shop in Churchgate, which have all publishers books and it's quite reasonable. I have all my things brought from him. Just lemme know when you have time we can go there and grab all your things.", Yash said.

"Okay... I'm free whenever you say. We can go tomorrow."

"Yeah.. Cool then. Let's go around 10 in the morning and tomorrow is weekend so there won't be much rush."

"Yeah.... Fine."

"Kavya, are you on Whatsapp..??", Yash asked.

"Hahaha.. You know this is the latest trend of boys asking girls number via Whatsapp... This is funny...", Kavya giggled.

"Yeah... Many of my friends do that and you know what it does works.. Really..!!", Yash said.

"Hmmmmm..... The thing is I'm yet to purchase my new SIM card. As soon as I get one will let you know until then you can give me your number."

"No No..... Who knows as soon as you get your number you will start harassing me with blank calls and obscene messages.... Me poor soul...", Yash joked.

"Shit... I had a full proof plan of molesting you, but you are smart... You ruined it... !!", Kavya replied with mocking disappointment.

Again, the tee-ha moment circulated around Kavya and Yash. After chitchatting for some more time both marched towards their dwelling with the plan of meeting tomorrow.

The following day went all busy and tiring as they had to travel a lot in search of books and all stationary. Yash's company helped a lot Kavya with her books and travelling as well. Yash not for a moment made her feel clumsy or uncomfortable. It has been just a few days, but Kavya could feel the security in Yash's company. As a friend both were glad to have each other and as it is truly said, sometimes it takes only a few seconds to get someone close to you and sometimes even years fall short.

Sometimes..... It's Too LATE....!!!!

Chapter Five

Kavya was still lost in her ocean of thoughts, Yash tapped her and she was back in reality.

"We have reached. Come....!!", he motioned her to come ahead of him just to protect any kind of buffeting in local trains which usually happens. She did as he said and both of them landed safely. Kavya smiled, depicting the tacit Thank you in it to which Yash understood and winked at her. 

"We just need to walk for 10 more minutes.... We'll be there... thik hai..", Yash said. 

Yash and Kavya both reached the college gate. It was a well renowned college, known for its academic and all other cultural and extra curricular activities. Students chattering and rambling on the college ground. Peons and watchman, here and now having a check on every students ID and they make sure that these students wear it on their neck which usually they don't do it, instead of letting it hang from their pants or shorts. Some girls and boys dressed best and looked really handsome and attractive.. May be rich brats, and a few were in the simplest form. Kavya started wondering, where will she fit in...?? "

"They have displayed the list in the quadrangle.... Over there...come lets check it...", Yash pointed his finger towards the quadrangle and started moving. Kavya followed him. She was all nervous, but somewhere was confident that she would be listed in the first list itself. The list has been declared and a whole bunch of students along with their parents have completely blocked their way to reach to the list. Kavya tried to have a look by jumping here and there, but all were futile.

"Gosh, how we gonna check now..?? People have blocked every possible way. lagta hai board ke andar hi ghuss jayenge...", Kavya said with vex.

"Relax... You wait here, I'll go and win the battle. Phew.....", Yash moved forward, turned back, winked at Kavya and then strolled into the crowd. Initially he was quite polite with the people, but when they were not moving an inch, he started to dodge among them. Squeezing himself, he finally reached in front of the board and waved a thumps up to Kavya. Kavya started giggling.

"Check...", she shouted. Yash nodded and spun to the board. He scrutinized every sheet. Once he was done with the scanning process, he marched towards Kavya. Kavya was all tense now because Yash had no expression on his face. He looked all blank and ambivalent.

"What... Do I have my name in the list.....??", Kavya queried.

"Ummm...No...", Yash nodded in dismay.

"Shit...!!!", Kavya exclaimed in disbelief.

"Hahahahahah... .Gotcha.... Chill you have your name on it... Yuhooo... !!", Yash chuckled.

Kavya gave him an I-Will-Kill-You look, but then joined him in their laughing encounter.

"Such a relief yaar. Thank you Yash, I don't think I would alone have traveled till here and more about to trespass this crowd.... Phew.... ", Kavya said kindly.

"Again, you're welcome... But I think now you should hand me your documents so that I can fill in the rest admission process and we can go home with no burden of worries on us...!! What say.. Shall we..", Yash said and signaled Kavya towards the admission counter were already a queue of few students with their parents was present. Kavya then handed him the documents and filled in the admission form. Yash and Kavya joined the queue and waited for their turn. It didn't take them long as Yash have already inquired of the fees and Kavya was all handy with the required documents and details. Within an hour they were all done with their admission job.

"Finally..!!!", Kavya said with sheer exhilaration and relief.

"Yup... Hey, I'm famished....let's go and eat something...", Yash asked.

"Yeah, even I'm hungry. Come-on, let's go...", Kavya replied.

Both walked across the street to grab some heavy lunch. Yash recommended a nearby hotel which was in the pocket, yet with tasty food.

"You know, here the food is cheap and it tastes yummy....!!", Yash said with excitement.

"Oh... Nice.... I think we should order something. Please you place the order for me as I'm new to this, I won't be aware of its best food."

"Ummmmm... Okay..."

Yash ordered for some fried rice and Manchurian balls with gravy and Pineapple juice for both of them towards the end. Kavya was really fond of Chinese food and she was glad that Yash ordered for the same. Again the same circle of sharing ickle smiles began, but this time Yash uttered to start a chat with Kavya.

"So... By next week you will commence your classes right... You might be excited for the new college, new friends and all that stuff...!!", Yash quizzed.

"Yes... Kind of...!!", Kavya replied woefully.

"Kind of... What does that mean...??", Yash asked.

"You know I'm all excited and thrilled to begin with my new college, but the only thing bothering me is getting along with new people. I mean making friends was easy back in my hometown, but here it's paranormal. Okay, I know paranormal is a bit exaggerated expression, but that is what I'm feeling now.", Kavya replied in dismay and looked away from Yash.

By the Yash was about to speak again, he was interrupted by their own ordered food. The waiter served them the food and went away. It smelled delicious. Both started nibbling on their Chinese cuisine.

"I understand...even I went through the same thing. But don't worry, it's just the first day you might feel awkward, but then you will get immune to this environment and if we talk about making friends... I think you already have one.. And that's Me...", Yash winked at her.
This instinctively made Kavya smile.

"Apart from me you will slowly have many friends Kavya. Just the first day will bother you, but then majja ni Life....", Yash continued.

Both of them roared with laughter. They finished their lunch and the bill was equally shared by them. Kavya really liked this gesture of Yash because he wasn't one of those guys who are just so clinging and cheesy, poking their nose in every matter and showing fake chivalry by paying the bill oneself. She had a rule that only her husband or boyfriend has a right to pay for her and Yash unknowingly followed this rule.

Yash and Kavya were back home by the evening. Bidding each other goodbye at their respective doors, both decided to meet downstairs after their dinner. Kavya after having a nap, had her dinner and went straight down as Yash and she had planned to meet once they were done with their food.

Kavya settled on a nearby bench and waited for Yash to accompany her. The chilling breeze was comforting and relaxing. Kavya closed her eyes and rested her back on the bench, savoring the blissful mild wind. Yash was now downstairs. He saw Kavya sitting on the bench and marched towards her. As he moved closer to Kavya, the blurred picture of her face was getting clearer. Her closed eyes made the face only look more adorable, with her hair moving here and there, as in sync with the blowing wind. Yash was now standing in front of her, just lost in her exquisite face when suddenly Kavya happened to open her eyes. For a moment it was all silent because no one knew how to react, it was awkward. After a tad pause, Yash and Kavya both muttered "Hi" in unison.

To Be Continued...!!!!

Sometimes...... It's Too LATE......!!!

Chapter Four

Kavya woke up with the sudden jolt, thanks to the thunderous alarm tone. With drowsy eyes, she got up from her bed and dragged the curtains open. The bright sun rays totally made her eyes wide open. As usual, she fixed her coffee and went straight to her swing zone and scooted on it with her morning companion, coffee. She never compromised with the quality time she used to spend with oneself. This always helped her to discover answers for some unspoken and tacit questions or helped her to come out of any dilemma. Introspection is what she believed in. 

Kavya, after having her own time with the morning  breeze and coffee, got ready by nine. She was almost done with her breakfast  when the knock at the door jarred her. Her mom answered the threshold. There was Yash on the other side, waiting  for Kavya.

"Namaste aunty.... Ummm... Is Kavya ready...?", Yash queried.

Kavya's mom motioned her to hurry up.

"Please, come in beta.....", Kavya's mom gestured him to get in. Yash got in and waved hi to Kavya to which she reciprocated with a grin.

"Only five minutes.... Yash, tell me what all documents  do we need..??", Kavya inquired.

"Show me...I'll have a look and let you know the needy..", Yash said.

Kavya walked towards her bag and took hold of a file full loaded with all the documents.

"Here...", Kavya said while passing that file to Yash. He slowly flipped every single paper with scrutiny.

"We possess all the documents the only thing is we need attest  them. Ummm...on our way to college...we can fix it. Now we may speed up.",
Yash said while gesturing towards the door.

Kavya nodded in concordance. She rooted in her sling bag on and waved her Mom a good bye. Yash and Kavya both didn't share a single word for a quite while, simply shared some simple smiles. And it was legit because both were total strangers to each other, one wrong move can ruin everything so both seemed conscious with every way they can. Finally, Kavya summoned  the courage to initiate a conversation .

"Where will we attest those documents..? ", she inquired with concern.

"Just few more steps. We have a family doctor over at that place. He will verify and attest our documents. Even I did it from him." Soni Don't  worry.", Yash replied assuringly.

"Hmm... Hope I hit it in the first list itself. By the way you're in the mechanical field.. Right.. ", Kavya asked excitedly.

"Definitely you will.... After all scoring 80 plus is not a gag. Yes, I'm in mechanical..... Which are you fronting for..?", Yash asked.

"Biomedical......",Kavya informed.

" Ohhh...Great... ", Yash said appraisingly.

After walking for about 10 mins, Yash and Kavya halted near Yash's family doctor's clinic.

" You wait here, I'll go in and have the papers done. Kavya nodded and perched on the bench comfortably. Yash accorded towards the doctor's cabin and strolled in. Within 5 mins he was back with all the papers attested and a broad smile of self assessment.

"Thanks a lot Yash. You have already dragged  half of my college worries burden. ", Kavya said with absolute gratitude for Yash.

"Always my pleasure...Now stop being so formal with me...Kavya... Let's move now...", Yash uttered while escorting Kavya to speed up. Yash and Kavya, got a cab and headed towards the station. Kavya was really excited as the life she has always read in the newspapers and watched in tv news channel, will be live in front of her and more of she is now a part of it. The life goes on theory and the bindaas mumbaikar wala aatitude was captivating. Yash for once looked at Kavya's face, which was all looking outside and could feel the exhilarated eyes depicting amusement and shine. Her eyes twinkled and her gleaming face was alluring. The wind was definitely playing with her hair despite her hard attempts of tucking them behind her ears. He could only grin while glancing at Kavya.

They stepped down from the cab and walked towards the station. Kavya could see the whole station was packed with commuters. With passing time only more and more people are adding to the already packed space. Everyone is preoccupied with their own worries, tensions, plans and what not. She had heard that Mumbai Local Trains are the lifeline of this city and one of the busiest city, where people are always in a continuous tunnel of life, struggling for their bread and butter. She now knew that it was definitely true.

"God...!!! I haven't seen so many people at once, except during Navratri in our Gujreat.", Kavya exclaimed.

"Haaa....That you are right, but you will get used to this crowd once you start travelling on a daily basis.", Yash smirked.

"I'm so excited...", Kavya said smiling broadly.

"Really, see I'm not saying this just to horrify you, but let me tell you the truth, As it is your first day you gonna love this, but while you travel in the evening, way back to your home, the fusion of morning perfumes and cologne is transformed to sweaty armpits and sweltering bodies all around you. There is no escape. You have to smell in that air, but still you will love that, though with 'Ewww' feeling...", Yash chuckled.

"Okay...but still I'm excited.. Actually, you just elevated my excitement...!!!", Kavya winked at him and showcased a broad smile to which Yash nodded in appreciation.

On the arrival of the train, Yash already motioned Kavya to be in front of him so that he can shield her from any kind of ramming and buffeting. Kavya was really impressed by Yash's chivalrous nature. Yash grabbed seats for both of them as it would take an hour or so to reach their college. Kavya motioned Yash towards the window seat, and he understood that. He swapped the position and gave Kavya the window seat.

"We'll never grow up. This window seat thing is with every person.. Hai na...", Yash said.

"Yes...for sure. Be childlike, but don't be childish...!!", Kavya quoted.

"Hmmm... Well said..", Yash replied in admiration.

Yash plugged in his earphones and rested his head on the back of his seat. He offered Kavya, but she nodded in denial.  Kavya lost herself in exploring the rustling and capturing the fast moving city's picturesque. She rested her head on the window grill and engrossed herself in the beauty of the new city. Where Yash was unknowingly taking a glimpse of her on unspecific intervals. Even he was bewildered about why every now and then her face dragged him. Her dancing long black hair, her almond shaped eyes, her radiating skin, her glistened face.... Everything enticed Yash towards Kavya. He tried to ignore her, but all in vain. Yash and Kavya were unaware of what their destiny held. Some for good and some for bad.

To Be Continued......!!!

Sometimes.......It's Too LATE...!!!1

Chapter Three

It's a brand new day for the Shastri family, or to be more precise an official first day in this new and totally alien city, Mumbai. Kavya is basically a morning person. She always wakes up by 5.30 early in the morning. Her morning routine is followed by yoga, meditation and last but not the least, reading Geeta. She never fails to begin her day with these three activities. But today she broke her protocol. As Kavya was totally drained off with energy last night she didn't wake up to her usual timing. She was still getting habitual with this new environment, so it would take some time for her to get accustomed with her daily regime.

Kavya was asleep until her mom came in and drew the curtains out so that the morning sun can portray it's shining rays on her and somehow she wakes up.

"Kavya...wake up... See the time beta...", her mom said, shaking her up.

"Ummm....5 mins Maa..", Kavya uttered groggily.

The morning rays find their way to Kavya's face and made it shine bright and gloomy. With squinted eyes, she woke up and marched straight towards the balcony. The seldom morning sun rays and chilling breeze, lightened her face with a bright smile. She stretched her arms wide as in to accommodate the entire morning sequence within herself and be with it throughout. The morning breeze has already made Kavya feel fresh and filled her with zeal. To revive her energy, she made her a coffee and perched on the swing. She was lost in the cold vibes of breeze and hot coffee.

"Kavya...Go and get ready. We need to shop our grocery and some basic necessary items today. Shah uncle, last night recommended a shopping mart which is reasonable and is just 20 mins at a distance. So buck up...Dad will be home soon.."

"Okay...Just give me a moment will get ready soon....",

All three of them headed towards the shopping mart and shopped a lot of things for their new home along with their grocery and basic necessities. Meanwhile, Kavya picked some simple decorative articles on their way to back.

It was all evening by the time they reached back, but none of them were tired as they still need to decorate their house. So the moment they got in, engrossed themselves with setting things in their right place. Things were now placed accordingly and the new house now looked even more homey and lively.

Kavya, after finishing her dinner went downstairs for a little walk. As her society had a small garden within it, Kavya didn't have to think much of where should she go for a walk as to relax herself. She came straight inside it and folding her legs sat on the green grass in the garden. The dark blue sky was wholly embellished with glittering stars. The presence of crescent moon only added beauty to the already alluring sky.

Kavya was lost in her own ocean of thoughts when a sudden tap on her shoulder startled her. She turned back and saw a familiar face smiling at her.

"Heyy....", Yash waved a hi.

"Ummm...can I..??..", Yash signaled Kavya of joining her in to which Kavya nodded. Yash removed his shoes and made himself comfortable by folding his legs and sat down,  accompanying Kavya on the grass.

"Heyyy....", Kavya greeted him with a smile. They shared some sporadic smiles as both were dubious of what to talk. When it was getting a little awkward Yash mustered to initiate the conversation.

"I always come down for a little walk after my dinner. Seems even you are in this league.."

"Yes....Just needed some fresh air...and here, it is amazing... So soothing..", Kavya exclaimed.

"Indeed... Anyways, how was your first official day in our city... Hope you liked it..", Yash asked.

"Ohh...yes...It was tiring actually. We went for shopping, all groceries and stuff..then arranging them was even more tiresome. so just to make myself relax I came downstairs... By the way... How was your day....??"

"I was at my friend's place for a group project so whole day we all did only masti...group was nothing to do with it...", both giggled.

"I know...being with friends and doing serious studies..!!! Two opposite poles. It never happens...", Kavya chuckled.

"I agree....", Yash concurred.

"Hey your family is too sweet. That was a nice gesture....they came to greet us and even in the morning uncle helped us with the shopping queries."

"That's gujju-gujju connection... No, but on a serious note they were curious to know about our new neighbors and you know what we are so glad to have found you people. And please I'm not trying to flatter you..", Yash chuckled and there hit again a lighter moment of laughter between them.

"Hey... You told my dad that on Monday the college will display their first cut off list right.!!! It means tomorrow. Tell me what time we have to go there...??", Kavya inquired.

"Ya...be ready by 10 am...It takes only an hour by train...", He replied.

"Okay...I think I should go now...It's been an hour down here...", with that Kavya stood up and was getting ready to go.

"Ya...me too...Wait a second..", Yash stood and faced Kavya.

"So now can I officially consider you as my friend...??", Yash extended his hand towards Kavya to which Kavya reciprocated and said,

"Yup... Totally...", both then shared a wide glittering smile and ambled towards their wing.

Both bids Goodnight to each other and marched in their respective house. While lying on her bed, Kavya was really happy that finally she got a friend to be called. Initially she was quite paranoid about how she will gel with people here, but now with people like Yash around, she thought of not a tough job. As a human nature, even she was hesitant to get into a totally new city surrounded by absolutely unfamiliar faces, but now things seemed a bit easier for her. With a sigh of relief she dozed off.

To be continued....!! 

Sometimes....It's Too LATE......!!!!

Chapter Two...!!!

Kavita scuffles with the lock to open and finally it opens. She steps forward and enter her new house. The house is spacious enough with minimal furniture. The way Kavya like it to be... Simple and Sober. She is a believer of maximum satisfaction with minimal necessities. It was totally the kind of place Kavya like to be in. Whilst inspecting every inch and corner of her new abode, Kavya's eyes got stuck to the beautiful wooden swing, which was hanged in the balcony of their house. She promptly ran towards it and with zeal in her eyes she jumped on it and started swinging back and forth softly. Her rhythm with the wind, on the swing was the sheer experience of bliss.

"Wow....This is so amazing..!! I can stay here the whole day... Just loved it.... Yuhoooo...!!!"

She finally got up and standing in the balcony, she called her mom and dad who were still in the argument with the driver.

"Maa....Papa..Stop your silly tiffs with that poor uncle and come up. See, it looks so good here..", Kavya waved them to come up and join her.

"When did you go there...?? And how did you find the keys Kavya.. They were in my bag...", whilst yelling at Kavya, Mrs. Shastri saw her left hand with no bag which made her understand that Kavya might have taken the keys from the car because she left her bag in it.

"Ohh...hoo... Now stop your interrogation and come up Maa...", Kavya said enthusiastically.

"Okay... Wait...!!", with that both of them grabbed as many bags they could climb with and strolled towards their new house.

As soon as Kavya saw her parents enter the house, she ran towards them and helped them to put down the bags and gestured them to follow her.
"Come here... Look, this is so beautiful. This is my territory, so don't trespass it without my approval...", She said while spreading her arms wide and rotating with full excitement.

"Ya..we got that. This is truly beautiful. The view is just so peaceful and calm. We will plant saplings over here, so that it becomes fresher and pure. What say..??", Mrs. Shastri exclaimed to which both Kavya and her dad gave a thumps up of approval and hugged each other.

The shifting is very tiring, but post shifting labor is even more tiresome. Placement of every article in their right place is a tough job to do. It's just their first day and the whole day went in a jiffy as they were engrossed in post labor of shifting. All three of them were totally drained of energy. After finishing their light dinner, they made themselves comfortable on their new sofas, when suddenly the door bell rang jolting them up. Kavya stood up and got the door. When she opened the door, she finds three people standing in front of her. A mid forties couple and a young beautiful girl, all were smiling by looking at her. It obviously seemed to be a dad-mom-daughter tie up. Kavya looked dumbfounded, looking her confused look the pretty girl spoke up,
"Hi.... I'm Sneha... your neighbor. There...right in front of you...umm... My mom and dad..", she said while introducing each of them to Kavya.

"Namaste beta, We have come to welcome our new neighbors. We hope of not bothering you..", Aunty said coyly. Kavya somehow figured out that it is Yash's family.

"No aunty...not at all..!! Instead, it is so nice of you all that you have come here to greet us. Please, come inside...", Kavya welcomed them and introduced them to her parents. All of them shook their hands and introduced each other. As both the families tend to be Gujaratis, it didn't take much of time for them to gel up together. It's kind of gujju-gujju connection you see. Initially the conversation was all formal, but as it proceeded it took a more local and homely turn. All one could hear was..garba, business, jalebis, khakras....!!!
Kavya accompanied Yash's sister Sneha on the swing, and they were also having their girly talk. Again the sound of the door bell jerked all of them, halting their conversation. Kavya stood up and moved towards the door. On the other side there was a familiar person standing with earphones plugged in with a huge college bag on his shoulder. Yes, he was Yash.

"Hey.... I'm bothering you again but it seems my family is here. Actually, I don't have the keys with me so have to disturb you...", Yash shrugged.

"Ya... Uncle and aunt are here for a while. And you are not bothering us, we all were just having some  usual talks...Come in..", Kavya replied and welcomed him to join their talk function too. Yash came in and greeted Kavya's mom and dad with Namaste to which they echoed Namaste in unison. Now it was Yash getting on with his introduction of what is he doing in studies, What would you like to be, Which college is best and all other arbitrary derails.

Mr. Shastri asked Yash, "Beta...even Kavya have filled few forms and I suppose one of them is from your college...Hinduja...right...",  to which Yash nodded.

"Ya...so as you're in your first year you might know when they would display their first cut off list..."

"Oh.. Yes, uncle... It's on Monday...!!", Yash replied.

"I need a favor from you Yash. Will you please assist Kavya in checking the cut off list and with the whole admission process as we all are new to this city and place...So I thought your assistance would be really helpful and will simplify our worries about admission. Please..", he appealed to Yash.

"Oh sure uncle, I will.... No worries at all...", Yash said assuringly.

"Thank you...so much.."

"Always uncle.."

Both the families pretty much got acquainted with each other. The conversation went for a while and then everyone greeted good night to each other as it was already late, so Yash along with his family, marched towards their home.
Kavya and her family were really happy with their sweet gesture.

"Nice people..",  Mr. Shastri said, to which Kavya and her mom nodded their head in unison and agreed with him.

Kavya went straight to her bed and dozed off instantly as she was hell tired today. She was happy with the thought that finally she was about to have her first friend in this totally new city, which made her even more at peace and calm.

What she didn't know was coming days are holding some surprises for her, which she had no clue about.

                           Stay tuned.......!!!                   

To be continued....!!

Sometimes.......It's Too LATE......!!!!

The Beginning.... Chapter One

"Kavya beta, please help me with this huge suitcase.....Ouch...!!!!", a mid 30's woman called out a name. She was with fair complexion and long black hair tied in pony tail and was draped in a typical gujrati style sari. And here enters our heroine, Miss.Kavya Shastri. Hearing her mom's voice, a girl came out of the car, shutting the door of the car really hard behind her. Wearing a pink Punjabi suit with her hair tied in an updo, her stature looked truly beautiful. With her eyes adorned with perfect embellishment of kohl and her jhumkas swinging along with the wind only made her look more adorable. She scurried towards her mom, tied her duppata along her back and gave a helping hand to her mom to unload that heavy bag from the van.
"Hey Bhagwan.....I'm pretty sure, this monstrous bag is of yours. This is so heavy..!! What have bought in it..?? Some sand and stones from our Gandhinagar...!!", her mom mockingly yelled at her.

"Hahahaha....very funny Maa....you know just some very important stuff of mine...that's it...and Maa it is not at all heavy, you are just exaggerating it...Look, I alone can handle it...!!"
With that Kavya tried lifting that bag up, but all in vain. She couldn't lift it even an inch up.

"Oh God...It is heavy..",and dropped that bag down again. Watching her daughter's amusing encounter, Mrs.Shastri roared with laughter and so did Kavya.

"Are...re...re...What is it..?? Why you both are  giggling so hard?? May I know..even I would like you to share your ha-ha moment with me.." A mid forties man came towards them along with three luggage. One huge bag on his left shoulder, the other suitcase holding with right hand and the last is his pot belly or rather a paunch, which was an individual luggage in itself. And yes, you all guess it right...he is our heroine father, Mr.Raman Shastri. 

Meet Shastri family, Mr.Raman Shastri and Mrs.Leela Shastri, Miss. Kavya Shastri's father and mother respectively.They are basically from Gandhinagar which is in Gujrat, a simple middle class family with simple values and ethics. Kavya's father is a bank official, and because his transfer of office and Kavya's further studies the whole family decided to shift in Mumbai itself rather than scattering here and there. So now that we are well acquainted with the three characters of our story, let us move and meet the other characters as well.

"Nothing Papa, I was just trying to show Maa my girl power...!!", Kavya winked and again chuckled on her own joke. 

"Hmmm....now use this power and help us in unloading this luggage...come on..", Mr.Shastri patted her and signaled her to get back at work. With that all three of them hurled on the luggage which was loaded in the truck and started unloading them with the help of few workers from movers and packers. On one side Kavya was helping in launching the luggage down and on other sides her eyes were glued to her new house and her new society. It was a big society consisting five wings in total. The buildings were well arranged with ample space in between as to forn a small curve kinda of shape. In the center there was a small garden for children and people to relax and play in the evening. In the left there was a small temple build in which only added the beauty of this society. Kavya already started liking her new society and her temptation for getting in her new house, was reaching the peak.

The mischievous Kavya was awake now and so she decided to go and grab the house keys from her mom's bag which was in car and meet her new house first and foremost. She did the same when her mom and dad were busy in unloading things and along side arguing with the driver for payment. 

Kavya flipped two bags on each shoulder and marched towards B wing, where a new story was about to begin. She hurriedly entered the B wing and pressed the lift button twice in a jiffy. She waited for some time for the lift but when it seemed that it won't come she opted for the staircase as her impatience was rising very high.
"Common Kavya, just two floors to walk...not a big deal..you can do it...",with consoling herself she grabbed the bags and started walking upstairs. When she reached the first floor she stopped and took a deep breath and after a while she again begin to walk. As she was about to turn for the stairs of second floor, someone bumped in her accidentally who was coming downstairs in hurry. Both collided and slipped on floor along with Kavya's bags going all the way down the stairs, right from where she carried them.
"Ouch....!! Ohh...Maaa....You......",Kavya was about to yell on that person but before she could burst out in anger, he got back on his equilibrium and hastily walked downstairs...clasped both the bags on his shoulders and brought them up and placed them down in front of Kavya. So here enters our Hero,the fourth character of our story guys. He is Yash Shah....a Gujrati chokro who lives with his mom, dad and an elder sister. And yes Kavya and Yash are neighbors. Let's find out how their first encounter come out.

"I'm very sorry...I was in hurry...just lost my balance and bumped into you..extremely sorry... Ummm....May I help you...with this luggage..?? Just tell me which floor you were heading to I will drop you there...", Yash asked her apologetically.
Kavya, initially was in fury but seeing his chivalrous nature she was by now all cool and calm. Her anger was all melted down.
"That's okay....I will manage...Please don't bother..", Kavya replied softly just to calm Yash down.
"No...pls...let me do it...I insist..." Yash said insistingly.
"Alright...only if you insist...", with that Yash smiled and grabbed both the bags and both of them walked upstairs. Both of them only shared some smiles, no one said anything.

They reached and Yash placed both the bags down just in front of Kavya's new house.
"By the way I'm Yash.....Yash Shah...and just for your extra knowledge we are neighbours", he gestured to the house just opposite to that of Kavya's. Kavya seemed to be happy to find him as her neighbour.
"Oh....Ya we are shifting today. Maa and Papa are down, handling all our luggage and stuff. Ummm...I'm Kavya Shastri...and thank you for all this..", she extended her hand to which Yash responded and both shared a light handshake.
"Don't be..I was at fault so it was my responsibility to undo it...And welcome new neighbour...", he winked at her and both shared a light moment of laughter.
"Oh god..I'm getting late. Need to rush. Hope you don't mind. Will meet you soon... and Sorry once again...",Yash said with anxiety.
"Ya...sure...nice to meet you.. Bye...",Kavya replied with smile.
"Same here...Bye.."
Yash turned and both of them adieu good byes to eachother.

A new story is about to begin...stay tuned...

Will be continued..

;  

Sharing Is Divine...... !!!!!

Have you ever wondered what if there is no one with you to share your sorrows, your happiness, your cheers, your misery, your toys...etc. etc. No friends, no family not even your foes....no one just you and only you. Sounds terrifying, isn't it...?? And trust me it is terrifying and horrific. But the problem with us is that we being the supreme creature i.e. being a human, don't value the people around us. Take everyone for granted and when we lose those people, we are left with nothing and then we realize the void we feel one we are without them. We are lucky enough that we have our family, friends and everyone with us, but there are few unfortunate, although i hate to use this word "unfortunate" it just wrenches my heart, who have no one with them. No family nor Friends, just them and their abandonment. Just think about those little angels who are left behind in dustbins or trash bins. Especially a girl child is more prone to this kind of inhuman nature. How can someone be this sadistic to let their own child cry and abandon them at that crucial time when they need the nurturing and caring. Such children learn to grow in this hard times and as they grow, they get acquainted with this reality and make themselves stoic and create a protective shield so that hence forth no one can harm and harm them. As it is said no one is born evil...it's just the circumstances which make them to chose this evil path.

What I want to convey is why can't we share their sorrows with us and revert them with sharing bliss and cheers. Why can't we minus their sorrows and add up their happiness and make them smile. Whatever we have we can share a tad or whatever we can and give them a genuine reason to smile. I'll share an incident with you which made me realize that Sharing is Divine....!!!
Once I was in my native for a short trip. Me and my cousins decided to take a walk in our local market. While doing that we felt famished so we grabbed some packs of biscuits and started hovering on them. We sat on the benches which were lined in the tea stall. Suddenly a girl grabbed my attention who was standing just opposite of few, at a few distance. She might be of some seven to eight years of old and was constantly looking at me while i was having my share of biscuits. Initially I ignored as we all do it but then I couldn't ignore her angelic face and ushered her to come to me. Of course when I called her, she firstly looked away from me but then she was confused and bewildered that whether she should trust me or not. The sheer innocence in these children make them to take time to trust someone, but once they do...they do it blindly and with purity.

Even she took her own time and after few minutes she came near me. I smiled and asked her name. She politely replied that her name is Pooja and gave me an angelic smile. With that I offered her biscuits and winked at her. Initially she restrained to take them but then she took few of them and reverted me with a broad smile, bigger this time. She just ran away and again stood back at the same place. After few minutes I understood she was waiting for her little brother who was in the near by barber's shop having his hair cut down. When that lil boy came out, he accompanied his sister and they left. Before they left, Pooja looked back at me and bid me bye with a beautiful smile. She shared those few biscuits with her brother and both seemed happy as if they have got some huge bunch of stars in their hands. I know this incident doesn't imply any great change or it seems really trivial but unless and until you yourself come across such phase you won't be able to fathom, what great difference this can make to you.

Since that day, whenever Pooja meets me in the market or any other place she greets me with the same beautiful smile and makes my day. I wonder what have I done that the girl gifts me that smile whenever she meets me...? Just gave her few biscuits, it should not even bother her a tad and look the irony is she treats me as if I have gifted her something really huge and divine. But then I got my answer, the divine feeling is the Joy Of Giving. I'm not telling you to pour down all your wealth and money on these kids or children, there is something more precious than your money and that is your Time. Try to share a tad part of your time with these little angels or any one who is close to you, trust me it will give them more happiness than what your money or expensive gifts can. Try to visit an orphanage and you will know how this kids learn to accept the reality and how they somehow find their happiness in very minute things of life. A little time spent with them and they won't ask you for anything. They just need the assurance that "Koi Apna Hai..."  i.e. someone dear is always near them.

Sharing doesn't implies that you only have to share your money or provide charity with wholesome of money...no...not at all...It's a misconception among us. Share your Love, show care and affection, spare some time from your busty schedule for your dear ones as well as for others...from others I mean the little angels I been talking about or any one who need someone beside them and see what magic and change prevails within you. The blessings and cheers you feel while sharing is beyond any other materialistic pleasure. When you'll be on your death bed, the only thing which will be with you is those cheers which you have spread and those glittering smiles you have brought on hundreds of faces. It will make your soul leave your body peacefully and reside in tranquility. People will not remember you with how many luxurious cars you have driven or how many smartphones you had or how much property you have built in but only with the Divine thing of sharing and spreading bliss and bestowing others with love and care. The change will be small, but very effective in your and others life. You won't understand the essence of sharing unless you do it yourself, it is sheer bliss. 

So "Do It And Fell It...'

<3 THE JOY OF GIVING <3