Not Guilty

#Thriller # fiction #Action

Chapter 1The alarm clock struck 6 in the morning. Sameer woke up to the noise of the clock and then switched it off. As he got up, he yawned and then from the bed, looked out of the window, there was a chill breeze blowing through it.........

Chapter 1

The alarm clock struck 6 in the morning. Sameer woke up to the noise of the clock and then switched it off. As he got up, he yawned and then from the bed, looked out of the window, there was a chill breeze blowing through it.

Sameer thought to himself, “Winter is already here. I cannot leave the house without a jerkin. It’s worse if it rains. I cannot afford to catch a cold and miss even a single day of my job.”

The setting around Sameer looked odd. The walls had not been white washed, it was dampened in some areas, and there were cracks. Sameer searched for his mobile, it had gone under his pillow. He took it out to see if there were any calls during the night.

He was sad for a moment and then smiled thinking, “Those were the days when I used to get calls even at 3 am and now, this mobile of mine lies silent. More than me, it is my mobile that looks sadder for not ringing."

The mobile looked ‘quite’ costly but did not suit the surroundings that Sameer was in. He got out from the bed telling to himself, “Let’s get started. No more wasting time.”

Sameer looked at himself in the mirror. He ought to have a shave. As he took the razor, and saw his reflection again, he thought with a smile, “I may have lost everything but my charm remains. No wonder there are still a few people in this world who still loves me.”

Sameer finished shaving, brushed his teeth, and then after a quick bath, dressed up in white shirt and pants. He was an ambulance driver. He then checked whether he had taken all his belongings – his wallet, his id card and a pretty costly digital watch. Before leaving, he checked his wallet for his driving license.

“I used to look for ways earlier to fool the officers but now when it comes to saving somebody’s life, I cannot be complacent.” said Sameer, satisfied that he had his license.

Finally, he took the door keys and after drinking a glass of water locked the main door. He was then greeted by the landlord, Govardhan who was reading the morning newspaper.

“You have to pay the rent today, remember!” said Govardhan.

“I will give it today evening, sir. I am getting my salary today. Rest assured you will get it.” Sameer replied

“You are looking smart today. Is there anything special?” asked Govardhan, still looking at the newspaper.

“Seriously sir, I am getting bored with that Dialogue.” commented Sameer.

“Just making you feel good, that is all, good bye.” said Govardhan, with a giggle.

“Thank you, sir. Good bye.” Sameer responded.

He was hungry and rushed to a small tea shop. After having his fill, he rushed to the bus depot to get the first bus. He reached his destination on time - the K.G.R hospital, and huffed and puffed towards his senior, Damodar.

“Why do you put yourself to task always? Relax. No one will say anything. There are those in the night shifts who have not even left home.” said Damodar.

“Maybe, they are very obedient and committed.” said Sameer.

“Well, I am not really sure about that. The work that we do here requires us to stay on our toes all the time. You will come across people who have never gone home on time because of sudden requirements.” commented Damodar.

As they walked towards a van, they caught 2 men sleeping. They were tasked with cleaning the van; however, they slept off in the middle of it.

Damodar looked at the men, shook his head and said to Sameer, “You talk about commitment. Look at these people, they are committed to sleep at work but their unique abilities to stay awake in hard situations are praiseworthy. I cannot stop loving them but I cannot stop hating them for this temporary attitude. WAKE UP, YOU DIMWITS!!”

The 2 men suddenly got up and saluted Damodar as though he was an army general.

“Ok, ok. Cut that out. Here, take your salaries.” said Damodar, handing over envelopes to the people around him.

Sameer checked his salary, no cuts, he received it in full.

Suddenly, the coordinator came with a doctor and 2 nurses.

“You people need to take them to the given address.” said the coordinator, giving a piece of paper to Damodar.

“Ok sir, we will. Get into the van, doctor.” said Damodar.

“Those equipments are going with us.” said the doctor.

Damodar signalled the 2 helpers to put the equipment into the van.

“Hmmm… This doctor has been called to check on a patient who seems to be counting her last days. Let’s go.” said Damodar.

Sameer sat on the driver’s seat while Damodar sat beside him, the former started the van, switched on the ambulance siren and then sped across the roads and streets towards the destination given.

The van stopped near a mansion, sameer honked the van horn and a man in his 50s came out to see. The doctor got down from the van along with the nurses and approached the man.

“Are you Mr. Sinha?” the doctor asked.

“Yes. Please come in.” Mr. Sinha said, he was in anxiety as he led the doctor inside.

The doctor signalled Damodar to bring the equipments. While the latter and the 2 helpers went in, Sameer was curious to know what had happened.

Sameer walked in and looked at the household. 2 men were standing and speaking with each other. There were 2 women who sat along with 3 children. One boy being the eldest playing a board game with the other 2 who were the youngest, possibly 4 to 5 years old.

The mansion was huge and would cost a million. The people in the house looked as though they were awaiting some news. Sameer slowly walked towards the room the group went into. A foul smell was coming from somewhere.

While the nurses along with the helpers were placing the equipments, Mr. Sinha came out with the doctor who said, “We are doing whatever we could, however, I do not see any hope. She is in her last stage. I can’t possibly say how long but just be prepared.”

Mr. Sinha then called his family members. No one was going close to the room. It wasn’t just the bad smell but there was something else too.

“Why the fuss when there is no hope! Someday it had to happen, isn’t it? Now just make sure that whatever paperwork regarding this property is necessary, we complete it quickly and allow her to rest in peace.” said the 2^nd brother.

“Yes, brother. We are indeed sad about mom’s condition but what has happened has happened. Let’s think of the future. Let’s see to it that she has a peaceful death instead of making a fuss about this.” said the 3^rd brother.

Sameer could make out that they were eagerly waiting for their mother’s death. They were more interested in the property share. Sameer couldn’t help smiling at them but at the same time feel sad about the lady inside. In her last moment of her life, there was no one sitting next to her, no one going close to her.

Sameer went in, even when he felt uncomfortable with that foul smell. The nurses and the helpers walked out the room while Sameer looked at the old lady on the bed. The lady was suffering from oral cancer. She had lost all her weight and strength. A photo of her hung on the wall as though making onlookers compare how beautiful she was and how ugly she had become now.

The lady opened her eyes and stared at Sameer who stood still beside her.

“Dear God, you have come to take me? Forgive my children, God. Let them enjoy their lives now. Take me into your grace. Please God, please.” the lady said, with whatever energy she had left.

Sameer was perplexed. The lady definitely had lost her mind too. The lady tried to fold her hands to pray, she had weakened so much that she had a hard time raising them. She had mistaken Sameer for God or… maybe she was seeing God. Then suddenly, those frail hands fell off. Sameer stared at the lady’s eyes; they were still. Nothing was moving. It was over.

Sameer came out and with a heavy heart gave the news. The others including the doctor rushed inside to check. The women started wailing along with the children while the lady’s sons looked over the lifeless body as if it was nothing.

In the evening, Sameer walked up to his landlord and paid the rent. The landlord was able to make out that Sameer was looking glum today.

“Let me guess… You saw somebody die in front of your eyes, isn’t it?” asked Govardhan, Sameer stared at the former confused as to how he got to know about it.

“I may not be your father but at least I have the heart to understand what is going on in someone’s mind. Don’t worry, son. This is life. Millions will come, millions will go but life should go on forever. Go and take some rest. Tomorrow will be a new day. Good night.” said Govardhan.

Sameer went to his room thinking about what the landlord said. He unlocked the door, switched on the lights and then had a wash. He had brought dinner but he was in no mood to eat.

He sat on the bed thinking about that old woman. Suddenly, the old woman vanished and in her place, he saw his father on that bed. Sameer was shocked and tried to come to terms with his present but he was unable to as his mind travelled through his past. Tears welled up in his eyes remembering that fateful day that changed everything.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 2

 

Sameer was in his final year in college. His father, Mr. Punit Malhotra, is in a high position at the Income Tax Dept. while his mother, Sunaina is a homemaker and he has a sister, Dia who was going to start her first year in the same college where Sameer studied.

Sameer was doing his graduation but he was not serious about his career, in fact, he wasn’t serious about anything.

"I don’t know what I am going to do with this boy. He is in his final year and yet he is still unsure about what he is going to do in life." said Mr. Malhotra.

"Let him complete his studies first. He must already be in a lot of pressure and here you are trying to make matters worse." said Mrs. Malhotra.

"Stop taking his side. If you are so confident then better you talk with him. He needs to realize that we will not be with him forever. As a father, I am toiling myself to see too it that he has a bright future and yet he shows no interest. Not even a bit of sympathy to understand that whatever I am doing, I am doing it for him." said Mr. Malhotra.

Mr. Malhotra was having breakfast, he completed it, had a wash and then taking his briefcase walked towards the main door. Sameer and Dia were listening to every word of the conversation between their mother and father from an adjacent room. For them, it was a normal thing to see their parents fight on petty issues. They couldn’t stop laughing.

"Ok, I am leaving. Take care and if possible, put some sense into that idiot." said Mr. Malhotra.

"Ok, ok, I will. Now calm down and go safely." said Mrs. Malhotra.

After Mr. Malhotra left, Mrs. Malhotra closed the door. At the same time, both Sameer and Dia came to the dining table.

"Have your breakfast... and Sameer, it is Dia's first day today. I don’t want her to be late just like you. Be a bit responsible from now on." said Mrs.Malhotra.

"Sure Mom." Sameer answered, smiling at Dia who couldn’t stop giggling.

Soon, both left for college on Sameer's bike and reached on time. Sameer's friends spotted him.

"Goodness me, am I seeing a ghost?" asked Dinesh.

"All thanks to Dia. Now Sameer will definitely not be late at least for her sister." said Sangeeta.

"Well, my sister is on time. As for me, race you all to the cafeteria." said Sameer, as he sped his bike towards the college cafeteria.

Dia tried to stop Sameer but it was of no use.

"Your brother will never change but don’t worry; we are there to take care of him." said Sangeeta, laughing.

"Sure, bye." saying, Dia walked away.

At the cafeteria, the friends joined Sameer, who had already purchased some snacks and coffee for them. As they sat down, Sameer was about take a bite when he stopped. He was neither eating nor moving.

"What happened? Are you alright?" asked Dinesh.

No words came out of Sameer. His friends looked into the direction that Sameer was looking at. Right in front was a beautiful lady having a donut and coffee. Sameer stared at her, looking at her eyes, her hands, her attire... he was completely floored by her presence. The lady had her fill, threw her plate in the garbage bin and then walked towards the college main building.

"Wow... wasn’t she a bombshell?" asked Dinesh.

"Shut up; don’t talk about a lady like that." Sangeeta said, angrily.

"Yeah, Sangeeta is right. Have some manners." said Sameer, still in a trance.

Sameer's friends stared at him.

"You too... weren’t you watching her? You were literally drooling." commented Dinesh.

"You know what, my father always said that I am never serious about my life. Well, I finally got a big reason for being serious." said Sameer.

His friends looked at each other and then smiled.

Sameer and his friends came to the classroom. The professor who knew what a latecomer Sameer was stared at him, totally stunned. Even the students in the classroom couldn’t help but gasp at this sudden change.

"Why Mr. Sameer Malhotra, you are too early! What a pleasant surprise!" the professor commented.

Sameer was looking at someone else. The lady he saw in the cafeteria was sitting in the same class and was looking at him sporting a sweet smile.

"Well, this is the last year of college so I thought I should be serious now. Moreover, I know I have been a pain to everyone, so let me just do what I should have done before." said Sameer.

The professor was impressed and so were the others in the class who couldn’t help but clap for him.

"What happened to you today? Some angel came and changed you, is it? Well, come and take a seat." said the professor, still a bit bewildered.

"Yeah, she is an angel." Dinesh whispered in Sameer's ears.

Sameer sat next to the lady who was still smiling at him. He smiled back while placing his bag on the table.

"So, this is the 3rd year... and as rightly said by Sameer, this is the year that you must really be serious about your studies and your career options. For all those who have been doing well in the past, I am really impressed with your hard work and zeal. For those who still have arrears... I may have been angry with them or harsh with them but it is still my utmost duty to tell you that better clear your arrears if you want to receive your degree at the same time as your hard-working friends." said the professor.

The professor then introduced the new student of the class, "Ok, before we begin the lectures, I would like to introduce you to our new student, Anita. Ms. Anita, if you would please stand up."

Sameer looked at the girl next to him stand up.

"I am really lucky, I guess. I get to sit next to her and now, I get to know her name. Making friends with her would not be difficult." Sameer thought.

When the first session got over, Sameer decided to start the conversation... break the ice.

"Hi, I am Sameer." He introduced himself.

"Hello, I already got introduced to you... although not the way you would have expected." said Anita, she had a good sense of humour.

Sameer scratched his head and said, "Ah... well! You are right. Meet my friends... or say partners in crime, Dinesh and Sangeeta."

The people greeted each other. 2 months passed by since then and their friendship had solidified. Sameer, soon found his life changing as he started taking his studies seriously, much to the surprise of his parents. His sister, of course, knew the secret.

"Highly interesting, I heard people cannot even concentrate on what they are doing when they are in love but I see the total opposite happening with you." said Dia.

"Well, that surprises me too. Anita being pretty studious, expects me to be serious with my studies. For once, she is right. I need to be serious, think about my future... for myself, for mom and dad... for her.

She has truly made me realize that every one of us has goals and you cannot achieve it without working hard for it. I want to do something now. I don't want to be called a loser, I want to be a winner and be fit for Anita." Sameer said and Dia felt so happy to hear those words.

"You have always been my hero, Brother. You will surely win. Whatever you do, you will surely be on top." said Dia.

Sameer smiled at Dia and they both hugged each other.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 3

 

Sameer parked his bike; he suddenly noticed Ritesh entering the college in his car. Sameer is surprised and looked on as Ritesh came out of his car and joined his gang. Sameer shook his head in disgust and walked towards his friends.

“So he is back, eh! I was wondering why life was going so smooth.” Sangeeta commented.

“He was missing for so long, but why?” asked Dinesh.

“I don’t know but rumors are that he got involved into drugs and therefore had to go to jail. You know his father, Mr. Rajiv Juneja. Very big man, he has got almost half the city in his pocket and his son enjoys being in his shadow.” said Sangeeta.

“No wonder, he must have got out of jail quite easily. It really helps when you have contact with big people.” said Sameer.

Anita joined them.

“Hey people! What’s up?” asked Anita.

“As usual. How about you?” Sangeeta responded.

“What’s all that enjoyment out there?” asked Anita, looking at Ritesh and his gang.

“If you were missing a college bully then meet one. That is Ritesh. As usual, popular with his gang but unpopular among others.” said Dinesh

“Stay away from his shadows and all will be fine.” said Sameer.

“Anyway, almost forgot! My dad is having a party at home. He is a very big industrialist actually and therefore, to increase his ties, he is inviting a lot of big shots of this city.” said Anita.

“So why do you want us to come? We may look like big shots but definitely not in league with your father.” said Sameer.

“That is because I am the daughter of that big industrialist and therefore want to increase my ties to. So, if you, Mr. Sameer Malhotra, don’t come to the party, I will cancel all ties with you. What do you say? And of course, bring your sister, too.” said Anita, in a commanding tone.

Sameer stared at her and then at his friends.

“Whoa! Sameer, we better not make this really big girl angry. I say we honour it.” said Sangeeta.

“Yeah! I am in and so is everybody.” said Sameer.

At the party, Anita introduced her friends to Mr. Patil, Anita’s father, “Dad, meet my friends – Sameer, Dia, Dinesh, and Sangeeta.”

“I am absolutely delighted that you people have come. I was kind of worried when I decided to settle here thinking whether my daughter will be happy but I guess I am relieved now. You people have been such good friends to my daughter. Please feel comfortable and make yourself at home. Anita, take care of our guests. They are as important as the others.” said Mr. Patil.

“Sure dad.” answered Anita.

“Excuse me, people while I check on my other guests.” said Mr. Patil, walking towards the caterers.

The gang was having fun but not until Sameer and Dia recognized someone familiar, very familiar.

“Hey! That’s mom and dad!” said Dia.

“Sure is. Let’s surprise them.” said Sameer.

Sameer and Dia walk towards their parents who were totally surprised by their presence.

“You both! Over here!” Mr. Malhotra’s reaction was priceless.

“You know them? They are my daughter’s friends.” asked Mr.Patil.

“And they are my children.” Mr. Malhotra replied with a smile.

“What! Really! My goodness! You are the parent of this handsome man and this pretty lady.” commented Mr. Patil.

“Oh yes, my pretty angel… and my handsome Devil… they are mine.” said Mr. Malhotra, with pride.

The party got into a romantic mood now with music playing and a lot of couples dancing to it.

“You know how to dance, Sameer?” asked Anita.

“I never had a partner to dance with.” Sameer responded.

Anita took Sameer’s hand and pulled him towards the dance floor saying, “Come with me.”

Sameer couldn’t take his eyes off Anita the whole time. She was wearing a beautiful blue salwar suit, and was looking gorgeous. They both danced, their eyes were looking nowhere but each other.

Sameer felt he couldn’t waste time. He had to say it.

“I wanted to tell you something.” said Sameer.

“I know.. even I want to but not here.” said Anita.

Anita took Sameer away from the crowd into a grandly set up balcony.

“Anita, we have known each other for quite sometime. What I say may not sound good but… its better I say it then to keep it in my heart…” Sameer started.

Anita hugged him, Sameer could feel the warmth of her hug and embraced her.

“You talk too much. I didn’t bring you here for some boring melodramatic Dialogue session. Why don’t you just say those three words?” Anita whispered to Sameer.

“Three words, eh! How about four? Will you marry me?” asked Sameer.

“Hmmm… not a bad idea but you see, I have my career also to look at so, you might have to wait.” Anita responded.

“Ah yes! I forgot that completely, my sweet new generation lady. Ok, I… love… you!” Sameer said, tightening his embrace.

Anita looked into Sameer’s eyes again and without thinking, kissed Sameer on his lips and started running.

Sameer couldn’t believe what just happened and stared at Anita, the latter turned back while she was running.. she was blushing, she ran towards the main hall and Sameer followed. The moment he reached the main hall, he saw another guest coming in. One look at him and Sameer was definitely not surprised.

“Well! Well! He ought to have come by now. What took him so long anyway?” Sameer commented.

It was Mr. Rajiv Juneja followed by his son, Ritesh. Mr. Patil welcomed them. Anita was also there and Sameer could make out Ritesh eyeing Anita the very moment he saw her. Sameer was enraged yet he controlled it.

He could see that Anita showed no interest and just shook her hand with Ritesh and walked away towards her gang looking for Sameer, the latter walked towards his gang.

“Where did you both go? We were feeling bored.” said Dinesh.

“A bit awkward too…” commented Sangeeta.

“Don’t worry. We are not monsters here. No one will eat you.” said Anita, smiling mischievously.

“So that bully made it here too. And he is looking at you only.” said Sangeeta.

“Well… It is accepted that I am very beautiful. What do you say, Sameer?” asked Anita, looking at Sameer.

Sameer raised his left eyebrow and then smiled.

The next day as Anita was walking towards the main college building, Ritesh suddenly stopped her path and re-introduced himself, “Hi! I am Ritesh. We met at the party yesterday, remember? We didn’t talk much though.”.

“Really! Let me think. I was busy with my group of friends.” said Anita, a bit sarcastically.

“Well! At least you should have introduced me to them. I can do anything to make you feel comfortable and… happy.” said Ritesh, it was obvious he was trying to flirt with her.

“Oh I see! But I don’t think they are in league with you. As far as I got to know about you, you may not hang out with people who don’t respect you.” Anita commented.

“Ah! All rumors. Don’t listen to them.” said Ritesh.

“Look Ritesh, I know you want to be friends with me but I guess I have heard too much about you and as a matter of fact, they are definitely not rumors. I am happy with my own group of friends, so please leave me alone.” said Anita.

She tried to walk away but Ritesh, feeling insulted, caught hold of her hand.

“Look here, lady, this is my town and my father is well known over here. He controls this town which means I get what I want. If I want I can get you by any means possible but it is in my good spirits that I am asking you as a gentleman. Don’t make me make you regret this.” said Ritesh, angered over Anita trying to ignore him.

“So my friends are right. The rumours about you are not false, I guess. If you would have asked a bit more solemnly, I would have accepted your friendship but it seems you need me for something else and I don’t do social service for people like you. Now, let go of me.” said Anita, looking at Ritesh with contempt.

“You flatter yourself, lady. I give you one more chance… be with me or I am sure you will not like what I do with you.” said Ritesh.

Anita struggled to let go of Ritesh’s grasp, the others around watched in horror but no one came forward to help Anita as they were afraid to cross their path with Ritesh.

Suddenly, Ritesh received a hard punch from someone. He fell to the ground visibly shaken. He looked up to see who it was. It was Sameer.

“Your father may be the richest man in town but you sure are the poorest beggar I have ever seen. I have never seen anyone begging for friendship... or maybe love, the way you do. Such things are only earned and not begged.” said Sameer.

There was murmuring around followed by giggles, Ritesh looked around, already insulted, he could now see his pride going down the drain.

“You have no idea what you have done. You will pay for this.” said Ritesh.

“Of course… your father owns the town, isn’t it? So we need to pay for using some of the stuffs.” said Sameer, as Ritesh looked at him confused.

Sameer took out a one rupee coin, threw it at Ritesh’s legs and said, “There you go, you treat woman as though they are a property, isn’t it? So, here you go… a coin for ‘using’ this property.”

The people who were watching this were impressed that someone stood up to the bully; they laughed and clapped their hands. Ritesh never felt so insulted in his life, he could only look down in shame… he could do nothing else.

Sameer took Anita’s hand and walked away with her.

“Thanks Sameer, if you wouldn’t have come, then I don’t know what he could have done with me.” said Anita, with tears in her eyes. It was clear she never experienced this before.

“My new age lady… isn’t it time for you to understand that the world is still not safe for you even if your aspirations are equal to men. Learn to fight. You can’t always have me or your father by your side.” said Sameer.

Anita put her hands on Sameer’s lips.

“Don’t ever say that again. I may reach my goals but I will never leave your side. You tell me… you tell me that you will be on my side all my life; I will win this world facing all fears.” said Anita.

Sameer wiped her tears and said, “Consider it done.”

Anita smiled at him, handing over her bag to sameer, she said, “Good boy! Now follow me.”

Sameer stared at her as she giggled and walked away; he nodded his head in amusement and replied, “Sure Madam.”

In the evening, Anita got back home to find her father in a happy mood.

“What is it, dad? You look very happy today.” Anita asked.

“Well! How do I start? Have you heard of Mr. Juneja?” asked Mr. Patil.

“Of course! Almost everyone in this city knows him. He also came to our party along with his son. So what about him now?” Anita was anxious to know considering whatever happened in college between Ritesh and her.

“Well… his son, Ritesh seems to like you and would like to marry you. A marriage proposal has come for you from Mr. Juneja.” said Mr. Patil.

Anita was shocked when she heard this. She realized that Ritesh was playing a game now with her. At first she thought that she should tell Sameer about this but then decided to make her stand clear before that.

“Dad, I want to say something. It is after all the question about my life.” Anita said firmly.

Mr.Patil looked at her daughter, quite confused with that attitude and then responded, “Of course it is, absolutely no doubt about it. Tell me.”

Anita took a deep breath and then started, “Ritesh is a big bully in our college. He was jailed a few months back because he was involved with drugs. He does not have such a good name as you think, dad. He is using his father’s power to get whatever he wants and his father also pampers him.”

Mr. Patil stared at her and at the same time, began to think about the proposal.

“Do you really think I should be with somebody who does not even take one effort to show respect to others?” Anita asked making Mr. Patil curious to know the truth.

Anita took her father's hand and said, “Dad, Ritesh tried to molest me in front of everyone today. If it was not for Sameer, I don’t think I would have… have saved myself from him. No one came to save me except Sameer.”

“That scoundrel! No wonder he is so quick with the proposal. I will say no to them. His father may be a big shot but I have my self-respect.” said Mr. Patil.

Anita felt a sense of relief; she felt confident and decided to tell the truth.

“Of course, there is someone else whom I love.” said Anita, blushing.

Mr. Patil was surprised and asked eagerly, “Really! Tell me who is he? Do I know him?”

“Of course, and I just took his name. You know him, father. You met him at the party. His name is Sameer, son of Mr. Malhotra.” said Anita.

Mr. Patil couldn’t believe his ears.

“Now we are talking. That boy is indeed the perfect man for my daughter.” said Mr. Patil.

Anita hugged her father in joy. Her father laughed heartily over Anita’s reaction. Mr. Patil looked at her daughter and then talked about his struggle in life, “Anita, I wasn’t born rich. Whatever you see is the gift of my hard work. It is a pity that your mother couldn’t live to see this day. If I did something wrong in terms of any decision that could mess with your life, what face will I show to your mother.

It is you who needs to understand that we are given this very life to live the way we want and not by some useless protocols that people have created for themselves. Sameer’s father is a respectable gentleman in this city and it would be an honour to tie my relation with him. I would like to meet Sameer. Call him some day.”

Anita nodded her head in agreement; she couldn’t wait to share this with Sameer. She immediately ran to her room, took her mobile and called up Sameer and said everything.

Sameer couldn’t believe what he was hearing, he felt on top of the world. He thought to himself, “Just a small change in my attitude has resulted in this outcome. I pray to god for helping me achieve what I am destined to.”

However, little did Sameer realize that he was to face the hardest moment of his life.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 4

 

15 days before the 5^th semester exam, Sameer as usual parked his bike and then trudged along with Dia towards the college. He saw his friends and greeted them but they didn’t respond back. They looked at each other and then saw Sameer again.

Sameer couldn’t understand what was wrong but he and his sister found a lot of them staring at him. Slowly, the students were gathering around in masses and looking at him. Sameer and Dia stopped in their paths and looked at everyone confused.

Sameer then turned around to see the principal, Mr. Mukherjee, who had noticed him. The latter walked towards him.

“What have you done Sameer? I didn’t expect this from you.” said the principal.

“What? What happened? What did I do?” Sameer asked.

“Come to my office.” the principal said.

The principal and Sameer walked towards the office. The latter could feel the tense atmosphere as more students gathered and were staring at him. Some including his own friends were following him to the office but stopped the moment he entered the room along with the principal. The principal went to his table and then turned to face Sameer.

“I just got information that our systems were hacked early in the morning, at about 6 am and the question papers to the exam had been downloaded.” said the principal.

Sameer couldn’t believe what he was hearing yet still couldn’t understand why he was called to the office. He asked, “So why are you sharing this with me when you ought to tell the others? Investigate who did this and punish the guilty?”

“That is because you are the one who hacked our system.” the principal shouted in anger.

Sameer was trembling with fear. He felt the ground vanishing below his feet. He tried to defend himself, “I didn’t do it. Believe me… I…”

“Shut up. Just shut up. You were anyway a trouble maker in our college but still we didn’t mind it considering the fact that your performance has been noteworthy enough. This year I found you serious with your life and studies which is praiseworthy but I guess I was wrong. I should have known what you were planning all this long. The people who hacked the system were caught red-handed by the police after we got an anonymous call from someone. They revealed that it was you who paid them to do that.” said the principal, burning with rage.

Sameer started crying and helplessly begged in front of the principal with folded hands to hear him out, “Please sir, please listen to me. I did not do it. It is all a lie. I didn’t pay anyone. I… I have been set up…”

“I have no other choice. I could have handed you to the police but I didn’t want the college name to go down the gutters. Do you know how much I strive to keep the integrity of this institution proper? And just because of people like you, I am answerable to everyone. I have made my decision and that is final. Here, take this paper.” saying, the principal handed over a paper to Sameer.

Sameer took the paper from the principal’s hand and looked at it.

“What is this?” Sameer asked.

“This is your rustication notice.” said the principal, with clenched teeth.

The paper fell from Sameer’s hand, tears welled up from his eyes. He couldn’t believe this was happening.

Sameer looked at the principal and begged again, “Please sir. Don’t do this. Please don’t destroy my career…”

Suddenly, the door of the principal’s office slammed open. Sameer turned around to see that it was his mom and dad. They had got the news. Sameer’s father slowly walked up to him. He was enraged as he dragged Sameer out of the office and then began slapping him continuously.

The people watched in horror as Sameer begged for mercy from his father. The next moment, his father clutched his chest. Sameer noticed his father staggering and was quick to realize that the latter had a heart attack.

As his father fell on the ground, he cried out, “Dad… NO!!”

At the hospital, Sameer, his mom and Dia watched through the glass as Mr. Malhotra was attended to by a doctor and nurse. His condition was stable. Sameer was still thinking about what must have happened. Who would have set him up? His mom and Dia were not even looking at him. Taking up courage, he walked towards them.

“Mom… I…” Sameer started but was cut short.

“Shut up! Don’t you ever dare talk to me. It is because of you that he is in this condition. You didn’t even think about us while committing such a sin. You didn’t even think about your father’s self-respect. What face will he show when the people who know him gets to know about this?” Sameer’s mother reacted.

“I didn’t do it. I have been set up by somebody…” Sameer tried to explain, however, his mother was in no mood to hear anything.

“I don’t want to hear anything. Dia, tell him to go away. Just tell him to go away. I don’t want to see his face anymore. Just go and leave us alone. Just go and die.” Sameer’s mother wailed as she said those words.

Sameer was in tears. He was also in shock at the final sentence his mother said to him. First, he lost his career and now, his family was also against him and not ready to listen to him. With a heavy heart, he walked away.

It was already evening, Sameer decided to meet Anita and explain the situation to her. He thought, “Anita may have heard the news already. I hope she gives me a chance to explain.”

He reached Anita’s home and went in, however, he was stopped by Mr. Patil.

“You! What have you come here for?” asked Mr. Patil, enraged.

“Please uncle. Let me explain.” Sameer responded in a desperate tone.

“I don’t want to hear any explanations. My dear daughter believed you and this is the gift that you give for her belief. I have seen the love she had for you but you have made a mockery of it. The college may have let you go with just a rustication notice but if you stay here any longer, I will call the police. I swear to God!!” said Mr. Patil.

Sameer started to cry again, there was no one left to listen to him and there was nothing he could do now. He walked away, went a few distance and then sat down on the footpath. He soon realized that he had eaten nothing since the time he had reached college. His stomach was burning with hunger. He saw how much he had with him, he had enough to buy something and eat, however, looking at a tea stall reminded him of those lovely moments that he had with his friends… with Anita… he was in no mood to have anything and kept the money back in his pocket. He got up, had some water from the stall and then walked away to where the road led him to.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 5

 

It was 8 in the evening; Sameer was trudging through a busy area. He was famished, his lips were parched but he still kept walking, lost and heartbroken. His mind was filled with thoughts of whatever happened with him today. In a single day, he had lost everything and now, he was on the road left to fend for himself.

Due to hunger and thirst, he suddenly felt dizzy. He couldn’t see properly, see a car coming straight at him at great speed. Even the driver didn’t realize that there could be someone walking aimlessly in the middle of the road. While the driver tried to stop the car, Sameer felt himself being pushed hard to the side by somebody as the car screeched to a halt.

Sameer looked up for a moment. In his dizzy state, he could see an old man looking at him. Slowly, everything blackened out and the last thing Sameer could remember was seeing more number of people trying to lift him up.

The old man was none other Govardhan. He called out a taxi, and had the people around him carry Sameer and put him in the back seat.

“My house is nearby. I will call the doctor and have him treated.” said Govardhan.

At Govardhan’s house, the doctor checked on Sameer as the former and his family waited patiently.

“Is he alright, doctor? Is anything serious?” Govardhan asked.

“Nothing to worry about. He hasn’t eaten the whole day, he is physically and mentally exhausted, some hot food into his stomach… and he will be alright.” the doctor replied.

“Ok doctor. Thank you.” said Govardhan.

After the doctor took leave, Govardhan, his wife, Gowri and his daughter, Devi looked at Sameer.

“Who is he? He doesn’t look like a vagabond. He looks like someone who belongs to a really good family. Why should he be wandering around aimlessly on the road like this?” asked Gowri.

“It looks like something bad has happened with him to have led him to this stage.” said Govardhan.

After an hour, Sameer regained consciousness. He got up from the bed and looked around. He saw Govardhan coming into the room with food nicely set on a plate. Seeing Sameer regain consciousness, he smiled at him and placed the food in front of him and said, “I hope you are alright. Have something… it will make you feel better.”

Sameer looked at the plate; he was famished and started gobbling the food. He suddenly choked and Govardhan gave him a glass of water. Sameer had some water and then resumed eating. Tears were coming out of his eyes while he ate his fill. Once he was finished, Govardhan took the plate and kept it on the table beside the bed.

“Go and have a wash, and then we can talk.” said Govardhan.

Sameer slowly got up from the bed and went to the washroom. He switched on the light and then saw himself in the mirror. His eyes were red and in tears, his hair that always used to be neatly parted was uneven, and his clothes were dirty and smelling. He wiped his tears and then washed his face. He came out and once again sat on the bed facing Govardhan.

“Who are you? And what happened to you?” asked Govardhan.

Sameer looked at Govardhan, his mind was replaying everything that had happened today and accepting his fate, a smile appeared on his face.

He answered, “I was somebody till yesterday. I was going to be someone by the end of this year… but I have ended up being a nobody.”

“Don’t say that. Do you have a family? Someone whom we will contact?” Govardhan inquired.

Sameer thought for a moment, he thought about his family, his friends, his love and then, he looked down and answered, “I have no one in this world now. All have left me to fend for myself. I am all alone now.”

Govardhan was confused, yet, he could make out that Sameer was deeply hurt and disturbed. The former wanted to help but not without knowing the proper facts about what transpired.

“Thank you so much for your help, sir but I guess, I will have to leave. I don’t want to cause any more trouble for you.” saying, Sameer got up, however, he started feeling weak again and clutched his head.

Govardhan caught hold of him and made him sit on the bed again, he said, “You are not in a position to go anywhere. Even if you go, you will end up in the same situation. You say you have nobody. Where will you go?”

“I will go to where my destiny takes me. I will go anywhere but not back to the world that turned their backs on me. They think I am a sinner but I haven’t done anything. I am not guilty yet they refused to believe it.” said Sameer, enraged.

Govardhan tried to calm him down. He nodded his head in disagreement and said, “The world never turns their back to anyone. The world is only oblivious of the fact that there are a few good people out there who deserve to be trusted, deserve to be loved and honored. The world is blind, it is deaf and it is we who should make the world see what it needs to see, make it listen what it needs to hear.”

Sameer stared at Govardhan, the latter’s words hit him like a bullet. Sameer then looks outside the window on his left and wondered what Govardhan meant.

Govardhan smiled, satisfied that Sameer was listening. He continued, “I guess you are thinking about what I just said. Look here, son, I may not know what happened with you but one thing is certain. If you are still alive and unharmed, then you have a purpose and that should be fulfilled. Now that you have eaten, better take some rest. You need it. We will talk tomorrow.”

Govardhan got up, before leaving the room, he said ‘goodnight’, switched off the lights and closed the door. In the dark, Sameer’s mind once again went through whatever happened but they all vanished suddenly, and what remained were the words of Govardhan. He slowly put his head on the pillow and within minutes was asleep.

The next morning, Sameer woke up. He was feeling better as he walked to the washroom and washed his face. There is a knock on the door, before opening it, he looked at the time on the wall clock. It was 8 in the morning. Sameer opened the door, it was Govardhan.

“How are you feeling?” asked Govardhan.

“I am feeling better now.” Sameer replied with a smile.

“I didn’t introduce myself yesterday. My name is Govardhan, come and have breakfast with us.” said Govardhan.

“Ok, thanks. By the way, I am Sameer. I guess even I didn’t introduce myself… considering the position I was in.” said Sameer.

Sameer followed Govardhan to the dining hall. He could make out through a window that he was in a huge complex with close to 50 rooms. He was in for a shock when Govardhan explained about the complex, “I am the owner of this complex. This property belongs to me and it was passed down from my father. This complex has a lot of rooms and therefore, I have put all of them on rent. One of the rooms is vacant and I am looking for a tenant.”

Gowri had already set the table and her daughter, Devi was having her breakfast. Govardhan introduced his family, “My wife, Gowri and my daughter, Devi. She is in her first year doing engineering. She is a very brilliant student. As you can see, she is ready for college and will have to leave early.”

Sameer looked at Devi. He was reminded of his sister, Dia. He wondered how she was and how she would be going to college. Worse than that, how will she face her friends who will be calling her a hacker’s sister? That was a terrible thought yet there was nothing he could do now. While Devi left for her college, Govardhan and Gowri wanted to know what had happened with Sameer.

“So tell me what happened? Why you don’t want to go back?” asked Govardhan.

Sameer sighed deeply and then narrated the entire incident that happened from the college to the hospital and then, from Anita’s house. Govardhan couldn’t believe what he just heard and Gowri became disturbed.

“My God! This was so unfair! Yet, tell me, you still have no interest to know whether your father is alright or not? Don’t you think he would be worried about you?” asked Govardhan.

“I know my father. He is a man of honour and he would have no interest to see the face of the one who has brought disgrace to him. Besides, I have now become a burden to the family. My career has been destroyed. I do not have anyone who can fight for me… and I am not requesting for it. I don’t know who set me up, however, I need to first sort out my life before I can wage a ‘war’ against those who wronged me.” said Sameer.

Govardhan stared at Sameer, the latter was just around 21 years of age… yet, the way he spoke was enough to prove that behind that happy-go-lucky boy, was a MAN who was aware of his purpose yet the world including his family only took notice of his outer self and not his inner self.

“So what are you going to do?” asked Gowri.

It was a question that Sameer was asking himself. He had to decide and his thoughts once again went back to what Govardhan had said yesterday.

“How much is the rent over here?” Sameer asked.

Both Govardhan and Gowri were surprised at that question.

“Why do you ask? And besides, you have nowhere to go. You can stay here as long as you can till you decide what you want to do. We want take anything from you.” said Govardhan.

“Sir, please… that is really kind of you, however, I guess I will have to face life. If that is the case then I have no other option. I will try and find a job. I couldn’t complete my studies but at least I will get a decent enough job to stand on my feet.” said Sameer.

Govardhan smiled at a Sameer and said, “God bless you, my son. You will be a winner and that is your destiny.”

Suddenly, there was a commotion outside. Everyone in the house went to see what happened. Sameer saw an old woman fallen on the ground while the others were seeing as to what happened. Sameer and Govardhan rushed downstairs to check.

“What happened? What is wrong with her?” Sameer asked.

A man dressed in a white uniform looked at Sameer, the latter could make out from the uniform that he may be working for a hospital or clinic. He saw the badge that read out his name - Damodar.

Damodar explained the situation, “She has had a stroke. We have to immediately take her to the hospital. The problem is… today the taxi drivers across the city have called for a strike so I don’t how to take her. Even if I do call the ambulance, I don’t know how long will it take and she is in a critical condition.”

Sameer looked on as the people tried to bring the lady back to her senses. The lady was partly awake and was looking around trying to say something. He remembered something that he read a few days back on internet, he knelt and asked the lady to bring out her tongue. The people were confused yet Sameer still asked in a desperate tone. The lady seemed to hear what Sameer was saying and brought out her tongue. As expected, the lady’s tongue came out sideways and not straight.

“You are right, Damodar. She needs medical attention and she needs it immediately.” said a desperate Sameer.

He turned to everyone and asked if anyone had a car or any form of conveyance. Govardhan rushed upstairs, brought his car key and gave it to Sameer.

“You heard what Damodar said. There is a taxi strike going on. Some of the areas might be sealed off because of that. It can be risky; there are already reports of riots and chaos going on because of this strike because of which the police commissioner has asked everyone to stay indoors.” Govardhan warned.

“Well, let us just hope that I don’t run into any chaos. I will see to it that you get your car back.” said Sameer. He then turned to Damodar, “I need your help with this. Do you work in a hospital?”

“That is a wild guess, genius. I work for the K.G.R hospital, the ambulance service division and that hospital is close, about 5-7 minutes drive from here. I will take you there.” said Damodar.

Damodar and the others put the lady in the backseat. Sameer started the car while Damodar got on the side seat. The roads were pretty much empty due to the strike and Sameer drove the car as fast as possible.

Sameer took out his mobile, switched on the GPS and typed the name of the hospital. The GPS showed the shortest possible way to reach it. He placed the mobile on the gear shelf and drove the car according to the direction the GPS showed.

They came close only to be stopped by a fight that had broken out between the taxi drivers and the police officers. Sameer stopped the car a few feet away so that they weren’t noticed by the angry mob, however, Damodar and he watched in horror. They looked back; the lady was still breathing but had to be rushed for treatment.

Sameer took his mobile again and checked an alternate albeit safest route to reach the hospital.

“Oh great! These stupid taxi drivers are here. All we had to do was keep going straight and we would have reached the hospital in no time. There is no way we can bypass this angry mob.” said Damodar, getting irritated and constantly looking at the lady.

“There is an alternate route, brother. We can reach the hospital.” said Sameer.

Damodar had a look, the route was longer and he wasn’t confident about it.

“That route is long. What makes you think there won’t be anything like this stopping us!” Damodar commented.

Sameer thought for a moment, he had to take a risk. He looked at Damodar and said, “My father used to tell me one thing - There are many ways to reach our destination. It may be short or it may be long but whatever it is, we will reach it if we have the zeal to reach it at any cost. We just have to keep going on.”

Sameer then turned right; he kept track of the GPS and then took a left. It was an empty street; he accelerated a bit and then after a minute or so, took another left. He reached the same road and stopped for a moment. Both Damodar and he looked to their left; they had bypassed the angry mob through an alternate route. Damodar stared at the drivers in disbelief and then at Sameer. He couldn’t believe what Sameer just did. Sameer then turned right, drove the car away from the mob and soon reached the hospital.

At the hospital, the lady was been treated by the doctors while Sameer and Damodar waited outside. Sameer was looking out of the window, he was now back to his thoughts about his future and what can he do now. Damodar walked up to him and asked, “What is your name? What do you do?”

“I am Sameer and… I am looking for a job.” Sameer answered.

“Looking for a job, eh! You look well-educated and smart too. You will definitely get something.” Damodar commented.

Sameer grinned and then, looking at Damodar, said, “You have never seen me before in that locality. You know nothing about me and what lead me here. It is a long story, Sir… and when there is a chance, I will tell you everything. Right now, all you need to know is that I could not complete my graduation and was thrown out of college for a crime I did not commit.”

Damodar stared at Sameer. The last statement made him cringe, however, looking at the state Sameer was, he realized that he needed help. Damodar thought hard. He then looked at the room in which the old lady was being treated and then looked at Sameer again. There was a twinkle in Damodar’s eyes.

“Do you have a driving license?” Damodar asked.

Sameer was surprised at that question; he thought for a moment, took his wallet and checked. He had it.

“Why do you ask?” Sameer asked.

Damodar explained, “We have a requirement for an ambulance driver. You have nothing to worry… I will do the talking and see to it that you get the job. I will give you all the training and required knowledge for this. What do you say? Game for it?”

Sameer couldn’t believe what he was hearing and pondered over it.

Damodar decided to motivate Sameer, he continued, “You were able to save the life of an old lady by bringing her on time. There are thousands of accidents that keep happening in this city, so many people who fall sick, require medical attention yet lose their lives because they were not treated on time.

You seem to be well versed with routes and have considerable knowledge about GPS which is perhaps the basic requirement for a driver. What’s more, Sameer… you were not thinking about yourself or the dangers that could have consumed us today, you were only thinking about the life of that lady and nothing else.

Imagine saving a 100 lives with the same eagerness. You can do it, Sameer. I will do everything in my power to get you the job. Tell me, will you do it?”

Sameer was still pondering, Damodar could make out the dilemma that former had. Damodar, placing is hand on Sameer’s shoulder stated, “No job is big or small. It is only in our mind. You have a big heart, make it bigger.”

Sameer needed no more motivation. He could see a chance at redemption… a small ray of hope that he can forget everything that has happened and move on with his life. He was so happy that he hugged Damodar and thanked him.

“I will do it, brother. Thank you so much.” said Sameer.

Damodar was delighted and he patted Sameer’s back. The lady was out of trouble, looking at her saviour, Sameer, she felt so happy to be alive and blessed him for his deeds.

The same day, Damodar introduced Sameer to his boss, Keshav, the coordinator of the ambulance service dept. of the hospital that he worked in. Keshav was at first hesitant considering Sameer was not able to complete his graduation because of the hacking incident, however, Damodar did all the talking from then on and assured him that he will take complete responsibility for anything that happens. Keshav thought again and then agreed. In his office, everything from Sameer’s salary, timings and all relevant matters were discussed and Sameer was asked to join immediately.

Sameer’s happiness knew no bounds. Govardhan and Gowri were ecstatic and congratulated him.

“I don’t believe it. I got myself a new tenant, Gowri.” said Govardhan, winking his eyes at Devi.

“Oh come on! Don’t scare him now. He has not even started his duty and… you are worried about rent.” Gowri snapped at Govardhan.

“Ah! Come on, dear, I was just pulling his leg, that’s all. Besides, this calls for a celebration. Be proud, Sameer, be proud of yourself. We have no idea what our future holds for us, yet, your story will inspire those who still walk aimlessly on the roads with no idea what to do next.” said Govardhan.

The next day, Sameer began his job as a driver as Damodar trained him to understand his duties and requirements. He was made to understand that like all drivers, he was responsible to the van or vehicle that he was assigned to and had to see to it that everything was in readiness before going on duty.

Sameer was tensed on his first 2 trips, they were patients suffering from a heart attack that needed immediate medical attention, however, he was successfully able to transport them to the hospital. From then on, something different was happening.

For the onlookers, the job of an ambulance driver would either seem normal, tensed… or worse, no one would even notice the hard work and struggle that a driver goes through. In the case of Sameer, he found himself in a unique position. The record of almost every hospital within the radius where Sameer was assigned indicated a gradual increase in the number of people brought on time and saved. Sameer’s driving started becoming a talk among a lot of people concerned who began terming him as an ‘ANGEL’.

Keshav was impressed and did not hold back in commending Sameer for his dedication in just a month into the job, “Well Sameer, people call it a blessing in disguise whenever it is you. For once, there a few people, if not all, who are not scared of accidents or sudden death. And you, Damodar… nice training. We need to be on our toes all the time and for that we need more people like Sameer. Well done!”

Damodar patted Sameer on his back, the latter felt proud yet was blushing. Sameer continued with the job and was being called by his colleagues as ‘A HUMAN MAP’ apart from the ‘ANGEL’ tag. He showed no concern for short cuts, no concern for road blocks and traffic. His mind was only on one thing – to reach on time… no matter the cost, and if he had to bend rules, if not break them, so be it.

During the time spent with Sameer, Damodar got to know everything about his past that led him to this situation. Damodar could make out that Sameer, even though sincere in his job, and doing all his best to enjoy life as it came, still thought about his family and his love. He would often find Sameer lost in thought and needed just a gentle ‘push’ or a ‘tug’ to bring him back to reality.

“Time heals everything, my friend. Make an attempt… call your family, call the girl that you love… let them know how you are. Something tells me you are not going be like this all your life. Your life, your fate… everything can change in a matter of seconds.” said a concerned Damodar.

“You think I did not. I have my sister’s and Anita’s contact number. Call it luck that I had my mobile and my wallet. However, I did not call them, I messaged them about where I was. That is enough for them to know that I am alive… and that they can move on with their lives without me.” said Sameer.

Damodar was shocked, he wanted to say something but before he could, Sameer walked away from there to be alone for some time. Damodar decided to stay quiet realizing that Sameer, disturbing as it may seem, started to despise the ‘world’ that he came from and never wanted to go back. Fate, however, had other plans.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 6

 

The state elections were around the corner and various political parties were as usual conducting rallies to woo the public in their favour. A huge rally was to be conducted on a sports ground by the ruling party and it was receiving immense public and media attention because the Home Minister was going to preside in the rally and would also address the public.

The DSP called for an urgent meeting with his officials to discuss the security arrangements of this rally.

“Gentlemen, we would have still had this discussion if there was nothing serious that is going to happen. However, the situation is more critical than you can possibly imagine. Our sources have just got confirmed news that there could be an attack on the home minister tomorrow at the function that has been organized. Who is planning this attack and why? Whether they are terrorists or local goons? These are questions that we can find the answers for later and besides, I already have people working to gather that information.

As of now, we will have to work on the measures for effective security. The home minister does not fear death or any threats but that doesn’t mean we should sit and watch the ‘fun’. I hope I am making it clear as to what is required from you people.” said the DSP.

“Yes, sir.” the police officials responded in unison.

At the K.G.R hospital, Inspector Khan met the head of the hospital, Dr. Joshi to arrange for 4 ambulances to be stationed during the rally. Dr.Joshi agreed to it.

“I am a big fan of the Home Minister. A lot of good things have happened in this city because of him. We will be in that rally and we would get to see him up close.” said Damodar.

“Don’t get too drawn into it, brother. We are on duty. God forbid, something bad happens… we have an additional responsibility, way more than the police or security personnel.” said Sameer.

“Nothing will happen, Sameer. Be confident and positive.” said Damodar.

2 days later, the rally was about to commence. The 4 ambulances were parked next to the stage where the home minister would address the crowd. 4 doctors and 8 nurses were along with the group. People had already gathered in huge numbers and the home minister would arrive any moment.

Inspector Khan approached Sameer and said, “You may not know me but I do recognize you. I am good at remembering faces, no wonder, I am a police officer. You are the reason why my mother is alive today and I indebted to you.”

Sameer was surprised. He may have saved a lot of people yet it is obvious he may not remember anyone of them, however, for someone to notice him and thank him for his service was overwhelming.

“Please sir. It is my duty.” Sameer responded.

“Anytime, Sameer, you need my help… don’t be shy. You are free to come and meet me. Here, keep my visiting card.” said Inspector Khan, as Sameer took the visiting card from him.

The home minister’s convoy had arrived and the inspector rushed forward to check on the security. The people had already started cheering; the cheers became more louder as the home minister walked towards the stage and ascended the stairs. Sameer looked at Damodar who was also cheering and clapping, and couldn’t help laughing at Damodar’s antics.

The meeting commenced, the home minister was giving his speech while Sameer and his group looked on. Suddenly, an explosion occurred just close to the stage rocking the area. Simultaneously, more explosions occurred with one happening exactly at the center of where a portion of the crowd was seated. Sameer watched in horror as he saw a few people thrown into the air because of the explosion.

Panic struck the heart of the people as they fled from the area. Suddenly, a gunshot was heard and Sameer saw the home minister clutch his left hand. The former then saw a group of armed men dressed in black running towards the stage firing in the air.

Sameer did not think twice as he rushed towards the home minister while the policemen and a few security personnel tried to fend off the attackers. Inspector Khan spotted Sameer picking up the wounded minister on his shoulder and then rushing towards the ambulance. Khan rushed towards Sameer’s group and helped place the wounded minister on a streture inside the ambulance.

“And to think of it, Sameer, I, now, understand why you wanted us to take the bullet proof vans and not the regular ones.” commented Damodar.

Indeed, the vans that the group brought were bullet proof versions.

“We are getting out of here, sir. Just hold on to him.” Sameer said to Inspector Khan, while a doctor and nurse started treating the minister.

“You said it, Sameer. Step on it.” said Inspector Khan.

Sameer and Damodar got on the front and the former started the engines. He drove the ambulance towards the main gate only to see it locked by more armed men.

“There is no way out. We are trapped.” Damodar exclaimed.

“Bullshit! There are 2 ways to open a door - find a key or a break it open.” said Sameer, as he switched gears and accelerated.

The armed men started firing at the van, even though there was protection in front, Damodar and Sameer took cover, however, Sameer did not stop the van. The armed men, seeing that the van was not stopping, jumped to the sides, as Sameer slammed the gate open with the van.

The traffic within the area was pretty much clear. Sameer switched on the GPS and checked the nearest possible hospital. It was 3 kilometres away. Damodar looked back at the bunker, the doctor continued with the treatment. Suddenly, there were gun shots and the group inside the van were jolted by it. Both Sameer and Damodar looked through the side mirrors, 2 SUVs were coming in close and the armed men inside were firing at the ambulance.

“Oh no! What have we got ourselves into!” said Damodar, panicking.

“Take a grip, Damodar. We are going to get out of this. Now, I need you to concentrate on the GPS.” said Sameer.

“I am calling for back up. Try to find the closest hospital.” said Inspector Khan.

“The closest one is Apollo hospital. Please see if you can have a force on standby over there.” said Sameer.

“OK, I am on it.” Inspector Khan responded.

The armed men on SUVs continued to fire, one SUV came to the left side and rammed the ambulance. The force was strong as Sameer almost lost control of the van. The other SUV came on the right and rammed it. Now, both the SUVs continued to ram the van to try and stop it.

Sameer was now aggravated, he had to do something… he had to do something fast.

“They want a fight. Well then, we will give them a fight.” said Sameer.

It was Sameer’s turn, as he rammed the van on the left SUV. The driver was taken aback as he tried to take a grip but his efforts were futile, as Sameer rammed the van again. The driver of the left SUV lost control. The SUV skid and from the opposite side a bus slammed on the back of the SUV, as a result of which it overturned.

The driver of the SUV on the right continued to ram the van, while the men behind continued to fire. Sameer then spotted another SUV coming from the front. The armed men on that SUV started firing, Sameer and Damodar took cover.

“I don’t think this van can take this assault any longer.” exclaimed Sameer. He then yelled at Inspector Khan, “Khan Sir, where is that goddamn back up?”

“I have no idea. They should have been here by now.” Inspector Khan responded.

Suddenly, the SUV in front was under fire. The armed men on the back were shot and killed. The front and back tire on the left were shot and punctured, leading to the driver losing control. The SUV on the right of the van didn’t notice it, as both the SUV slammed into each other in an head on collision.

Sameer understood what had happened, back up had arrived. There were 4 police jeeps coming from the left, and some of the police officers had fired at the SUV that was coming towards the ambulance from the front. Sameer stepped on the accelerator and drove away from the area, while the 4 jeeps stopped near the collided vehicles and took the rest of the armed men in custody.

“They are just in time. Sameer, police forces are at the hospital. Let us get there.” said Inspector Khan.

Soon, they reached the hospital. Sameer and Damodar were impressed. The police forces had taken over the security of the hospital. Sameer stopped the van at the portico, and the hospital staff came out to receive the home minister. Before being taken inside, he called out to Sameer.

Sameer walked up to him, the home minister touched his hand and said, “You risked your life for me. I don’t know whether I can ever repay you. Yet, know this, son… you need my help, don’t feel shy. My doors are always open for those who stand by what is right.”

Sameer was overwhelmed by those words. The media and press were already there. The cameras were switched on and the world was seeing a new hero that had risen out of nowhere, including Sameer’s family, Anita and her father. Sameer, Damodar, Inspector Khan and the K.G.R hospital staff were being showcased as heroes on national TV.

A news reporter provided a gist of the incident, “We had received confirmed reports that the home minister was injured in a public rally. Some unidentified goons had launched an attack on the rally and the home minister was shot on his left hand.

The situation could have turned worse if not for the efforts of the staff of K.G.R hospital, especially, the driver Sameer Malhotra and of course, Inspector Khan who made sure that the home minister was taken to the hospital safely and in time.”

Sameer’s family watched in awe as everyone, a few policemen, news reporters and some dignitaries related to the home minister were shaking hands with Sameer, Damodar, the doctor and the nurse.

“My son is an ambulance driver. He ended up as an ambulance driver. What will happen when the world gets to know that he is my son? They will question me! Question us that why is the son of a respected income tax official working as an ambulance driver! What will I tell them?” said Mr. Malhotra, as he sadly got up from his seat and slowly walked towards his room.

When Mr. Malhotra locked the door, Dia looked at her mother and spoke up, “I want to meet him. We ought to. God knows in what condition he is in.”

Mrs. Malhotra nodded her head and replied, “We will but don’t tell your father about it. He won’t like it.”

At Anita’s home, Mr. Patil remembered something and shared it with Anita, “One of my business acquaintances, Mr. Arora… his wife had a road accident. She was severely injured. He met her at the hospital and while going upstairs, he seemed to have caught sight of Sameer along with his staff. He saw Sameer and his father at the party, and that is why he immediately recognized him. He was shocked and he, later, informed me about this. Even I was shocked… no doubt. I know I was angry at that time, I readily believed that he was a cheat. Something tells me… either, he is not guilty or he has mended his ways and is trying to survive in whichever way possible.”

Anith got up from her seat and walked towards the balcony. She looked at the city, remembering all those beautiful moments she spent with Sameer. She then looked at her father and asked, “Why are you telling this to me? What do you intend? We did not give him a chance to justify himself, a person in his place would have given up on everything and committed suicide, yet, look at him, standing strong and brave… ready to face his life the way it should be faced. He is a hero now. And we, we are the people who should be guilty of not giving someone the chance to redeem himself. What can we do now?”

Mr.Patil walked up to her and said, “Yes, what can we do now. If I would have given this incident a bit of thought, I could have actually spoken to the principal of the college and allowed a thorough investigation. I am still not able to understand how the case was just closed without any further actions. And… we were all so drawn into it, we never did anything. Even, Sameer’s father did not take the step to have an investigation launched considering he is no less a respectable person and a lot of people know him”

“And that is only because we put our name, our respect, our dignity forward and allowed the truth to rot in the dark.” said Anita, tears welled up as she said it.

Both were silent for sometime after which Mr.Patil spoke up, “If you want to meet him, I can arrange it. I know the police commissioner, so I can get his contact details. However, you must understand that what has happened has happened and we cannot do anything about it. Your marriage has been fixed with Ritesh, though it is wise of you to see to it that you complete your studies first before the alliance.”

Anita wiped her tears, she took a grip of herself and responded, “It is ok, dad. I sure do want to meet him but that doesn’t mean I will change my decision. Don’t worry about it.”

Mr. Patil smiled at her and then walked away. Anita looked at the city again, she was heartbroken with what happened to Sameer. She looked at the sky and thought, “Did you really do it, Sameer? Wish I could have controlled all that anger towards you and just asked. I just made you walk away without giving you an opportunity to justify yourself. Now I am reaping the fruits of that mistake. Forgive me, Sameer. Forgive me for not believing you.

Her mind went back to about a month ago when Mr.juneja met Mr.Patil again and asked for Anita’s hand in marriage for his son. Ritesh was speaking to Anita and sounded quite polite that day.

“I am sorry for what I did to you. I am also sorry about whatever happened between Sameer and you. I know you are still thinking about him but… the past is past. If you think I am worthy for you, we can work this out together. My love may not be equal to Sameer’s but I assure you that I will keep you happy fulfilling all my duties.” said Ritesh.

Anita was indeed thinking about Sameer. She looked at Ritesh. She had to say something. Was there a chance to be back with Sameer again? Was there something she could do for him before she took this step? She took a deep breath and said, “I am not against this marriage but I would like to complete my studies before I take the step. I want to have a career of mine, so surely you want mind that.”

Ritesh stared at Anita and laughed heartily, he replied, “Of course not, why would I mind that? Do whatever you wish to do and be assured; I will always be there for you.

Anita felt relieved when Ritesh accepted that. It had been 2 months since then and the sight of Sameer on television brought some hope to Anita to meet him and ask for his forgiveness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 7

 

Fast forward to the present, 10 days after the rally incident, Sameer was still seated next to the window and thinking about everything that had happened from past till present. He had lost all belief in his parents, his love and everyone who were close to him. However, he had an urge to know what happened after the hacking incident, why there was no further investigation on this and why, anyone related to the incident was tight lipped about this?

Sameer pondered, “I did not check the newspapers, I am not sure whether this incident ever made it to the media or the press. Something tells me… it was covered up. I was set up by somebody and he must be the same person who saw to it that everything was done in complete secrecy. Who was it?”

For so long, he never gave this incident a thought due to his anger and disappointment towards his family. Now, pondering over the incident a bit harder, he then remembered the incident where Ritesh tried to molest Anita and he saved her. He also went on to insult Ritesh, making the latter a laughing stock of the college.

“It has to be Ritesh. I never had any enemies in my life that can put me in so much ‘trouble’, so needless to say, it has to be Ritesh.” said Sameer.

He was angry at Ritesh, however, he was even more angry at Anita.

“Damn you, Anita. I saved you from that vagabond and this is the ‘gift’ I get for doing that. You should have been the first to notice this, understand this but you allowed your emotions to cloud your judgement. I never want to see your face again. I will never forgive you. I will never forgive anyone. I don’t need anyone to prove that I am innocent. If this is what I deserve, I will come out successful from here and prove my innocence with my success.” Sameer said to himself.

His phone suddenly rang and he was jolted from it. He looked at the screen. It was Inspector Khan and he answered the phone.

“Sameer, I checked the files related to the hacking incident. 15 years in this profession and I am at a stage where I can look at any petty case like this and talk about its details without even looking at it. However, there are a few details that should interest you.” said Inspector Khan.

I am listening, sir. Go on.” Sameer responded.

“The college systems were hacked by 2 people early morning, at about 6 am, when the gates were just opened by the security guards. They somehow got into the room where the systems were kept and accessed the files. Here is where the matter really gets serious and indicates that a lot of people are involved including the police officer that investigated the incident. How did the 2 people know where the systems with the question papers were? Did they break the lock or did they have a spare key? How did they access the computers - did they really hack it or they had the password to the systems?

This is a botched up case, Sameer. I heard from a source of mine that Mr.Juneja spoke to the principal and talked him out of any police investigation to continue so as to not tarnish the image of the college. It is rather surprising that the principal agreed to it.

You are dealing with a man who controls half the city, a man who cannot be touched unless and until there is some solid evidence against him… it is Mr.Juneja and from what I can see from your story, his son, Ritesh, who is nothing but a burden to him, must have done all this. Yet, Ritesh does not have brains and out of anger has dug up his own grave.

I can help you, Sameer. I can reopen the case for you, but know this… you are going to face against a so-called powerful man who can do anything to save his own ass. Make the right choice.”

Inspector Khan explained about the case and the situation that Sameer was at present. Sameer did not think twice. His life was already finished the day he was kicked out of everyone’s lives, the day his career was destroyed, and all his ambitions… his new found ambitions that were triggered due to Anita’s love… were reduced to dust.

“I am willing to help and cooperate, sir. If things would have been different, I would have stepped back. If there is even a slightest chance of getting my life back, I am ready to take it.” said Sameer.

“Don’t worry, Sameer. Besides, you have all the support. You have already given all details about this case. I will find the truth and see to it that you get your life back. Don’t lose hope and don’t give up.” said Inspector Khan.

As promised, Inspector Khan had the case reopened. Inspector Khan went to the college first and met the principal, Mr. Mukherjee.

The principal was alarmed at this development and exclaimed, “What was the need of an investigation? The people who were caught confessed that it was Sameer who paid them to do this! What else do we need for a proof?”

“You are the principal of one of the finest colleges of this city yet call it luck or call it influence, no one questioned about the lack of security in your college, the lack of responsibility of your college staff and the fact, that the most secured rooms of the college are… not that secured as it looks.” commented Inspector Khan.

The principal’s eyes widened, he was quick to realize what the inspector was talking about and was now sweating profusely.

“You allowed the career of one of your students to be destroyed, did not give him a chance to prove his innocence. You heeded Mr. Juneja’s words to save your ass and lie to the people that you are trying to save the college’s name. That not only makes you a suspect, but also, the fact that you have great rapport with Mr. Juneja… maybe, you are also involved in this case along with a few others who were hell bent on making Sameer’s life miserable.” said Inspector Khan, glaring at the principal.

The principal was now trembling with fear. That very moment, Mr. Juneja entered the room, both the former and Inspector Khan looked at each other, the latter could make out that Mr.Juneja was not surprised making it clear that the news of the case being reopened had reached him.

“I have heard about you, Inspector Khan. You are a very brave officer… and the way you saved the home minister speaks volumes about you. We don’t get to meet people like you every day and I am really honored.” said Mr. Juneja.

There was an air of tension inside the principal’s room, as both Mr. Juneja and Inspector Khan looked eye to eye, and the principal still quivering in fear was wiping his forehead, caught in the middle of this mess.

“Thank You, Mr. Juneja. Those are real words of appreciation. The fact that people like you appreciate the hard work we do, we feel motivated to perform better. I will see you around. Now, if you would please excuse me. I have a pending matter to attend. Mr. Mukherjee, if you could please call your college staff… I would like to ask them some questions.” saying, Inspector Khan walked out of the principal’s office.

Mr.Juneja came back home and saw Ritesh busy on his gaming console with his friends. Ritesh looked at his father and greeted, “Hey, dad! How was your day!”

There was no expression on Mr.Juneja, he walked up to Ritesh and looked at him. Ritesh couldn’t understand what happened and he got up from his seat and asked, “What happened, dad? Any Problem?”

Mr.Juneja slapped Ritesh hard, the latter didn’t expect it and he fell on the ground with a thud. Ritesh’s friends were taken aback, they looked at each other and then at Mr.Juneja, they quietly walked away from there while Ritesh got up. This was the first time that Ritesh’s father slapped him and he was still trying come to terms with it.

“What was that for? Why did you slap me? What have I done?” asked a confused Ritesh.

Mr. Juneja was now glaring at his son, he caught him by the latter’s collar and yelled at him, “I am trying to maintain a name that took me years to create and here you are trying to destroy it with your never ending antics. You act before you think and the end result is me trying to save your ass. Sameer’s hacking case has been reopened and here you are playing games. Life is not a game, you hear me!!” saying, Mr. Juneja pushed Ritesh hard and the latter fell on the sofa.

Ritesh was puzzled. He couldn’t believe it. He stared at Mr.Juneja and asked, “When did this happen?”

Mr. Juneja switched on the television and selected a news channel, and there it was… Sameer was being interviewed by reporters from different news channels; Inspector Khan was standing next to him.

“So, Mr. Sameer Malhotra, you are saying that you have been falsely charged for hacking the college systems and downloading the question papers?” asked the first reporter.

“Yes, and I will go at any length to prove that I did not.” Sameer answered.

“Do you suspect anyone? Would you able to provide their names?” asked the 2^nd reporter.

“I wish I could… however, I would like to keep it confidential for now. All I can say is that whoever did this, he believes that he can go scot-free from the law and nobody can touch him. I would like to tell him that nobody is above the law. If the law cannot catch him, well, there is something called Karma. You may not believe in it… but that doesn’t mean it does not exist.” said Sameer.

“I think we all know who you are pointing your finger at. Your life may be in danger.” the first reporter commented.

Sameer thought for a moment, smiled and responded, “They will kill me, that is what you are saying, isn’t it? My life… my career… my dreams, they have all been taken away from me. My family, my love… they never supported me or helped me when I needed them the most. I have nobody to help me. My new found friends are the only people I have now… yet, I don’t want to jeopardize their life for my sake. This is my fight, either I will win or I will die, why should the others care about it?”

Mr. Juneja switched off the television, Ritesh was alarmed.

“Dad, you can stop this investigation. You can do anything.” said Ritesh, he was trembling with fear.

Mr. Juneja was irritated by his son’s lack of common sense and reacted, “And what makes you think I can save you. This boy… this low paid ambulance driver has become a hero. Kill him? I cannot even touch him or even buy him out. Did you not hear what he said on national television?”

Mr.Juneja walked away from the place, Ritesh still seated on the sofa clutched his head unable to understand what to do, “Damn you, Sameer! Damn you!! I thought I can have you thrown out of college and thrown out of everyone’s life, watch you beg for a living and watch myself throw a coin at you… yet, here you are, a national hero. What are you made of? Why don’t you just die?”

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 8

 

The next day, in the evening, Dia was going for her tuition's and was walking alongside a park. Suddenly, a car stopped next to her, it was Ritesh and 2 of his friends who got out of the car. Dia understood why they were here and tried to run but was cornered.

“So, you are Dia, Sameer’s sweet sister. Your brother is so brave yet you… you are a coward and trying to run away.” said Ritesh, as his friends were laughing at her.

There were people seeing what was going on yet no one came forward to help Dia. She was in tears now while Ritesh and his friends were trying to molest her.

“Tell your brother to keep his mouth shut or I have a good mind to finish off your family. I am letting you go today but next time, I guarantee you will live yet you will not have a face to show to the world.” said Ritesh, glaring at Dia.

“You call my sister a coward yet you don’t have the courage to walk up to the ‘hero’ himself.” a voice came from behind.

Ritesh recognized that voice and looked back, alarmed. There he was, standing tall in his uniform and having a glass of tea. It was Sameer standing along with Damodar. The people who were not coming forward, recognized him and were feeling ashamed after realizing that the girl was his sister. 

Ritesh’s friends backed off from Dia while Ritesh was trembling with fear. He didn’t expect this as he watched Sameer come forward.

Sameer continued, “If this game would have been played by your father, he would have done a good job, and I would have been rotting in jail. You… you are a just a burden to your father, living under his shadow and doing all sorts of nonsense. Your father has created a name, a name that he should be proud of but what have you done? You are a disgrace to that name.”

Ritesh wanted to say something, but kept quite. For the first time in his life, he accepted that he was at fault. He could only clench his fist and stare at Sameer in anger. Every word of Sameer was stabbing him like daggers.

“I am not sure whether I will win this case or not. I am not concerned about that. I know I am right, I know I am innocent… and that is enough for me. As for you, Mr. Ritesh Juneja, you will suffer. And you have no idea how bad will you suffer.” said Sameer, as he sipped his glass of tea and walked away.

The crowd over there was listening to every word, one of them yelled at the others, “That girl is Sameer’s sister. The same Sameer who saved the lives of so many people, saved the life of the home minister who has done so much for our city… and here we are, standing as though we are watching a movie or a play. Cowards!! If you have the guts, let show these bastards that we are not bowing down to their so-called power. Move forward.” said the man.

That was enough, the people did not think twice. They pounced on Ritesh and his friends and bashed them up. Dia wanted to speak to his brother and called out to him yet she couldn’t as she was blocked by the angry crowd. She saw her brother get on the van with Damodar, the van sped away and Dia could only stand over there and cry. 

Meanwhile, Inspector Khan was at Sameer’s home talking with his mother and father.

“You people were more concerned about your name and respect yet for once you people didn’t take the step to find out whether your son was guilty or not.” said Inspector Khan.

Mr. Malhotra tried to explain, “If you would have been in our place, what would you have done? My son was never serious with his life and always good for nothing. Yes, I was enraged when I heard about the hacking incident. I accept that I didn’t think, I was not in that position… and then, I got a heart attack… after which, there was nothing I could do.”

Inspector Khan laughed at Mr.Malhotra and said, “You say your son is good for nothing yet he is the same boy who saved the life of the Home Minister. You say he was never serious with his life yet when the world turned his back on him, he care a damned about it and decided to live his own life. In short, he is your son, a boy who has manned up and has decided to prove that he is not guilty… and the best part, disappointing for you, may be, he doesn’t need his family or his friends; he has the whole city behind him. He will fight or he will die.”

The last sentence shocked Sameer’s mother and father. While Sameer’s father could only stare at the police officer, Sameer’s mother started crying and rushed to her room. Inspector Khan walked out and saw Dia coming in through the gate. Dia recognized Inspector Khan and rushed to him.

“I wanted to tell you something.” said Dia.

“Yes, dear. Go on.” Inspector Khan responded.

Dia was hesitant at first but then taking a deep breath explained whatever happened a few moments ago. Inspector Khan was shocked yet satisfied that no harm came to Dia.

“I wouldn’t say that was not expected. Disturbing as it may sound, Ritesh has only proved to the world that he is behind all this. Yet, we still need a solid proof. Dia, I have an advice for you. Do not tell anything to your parents. They are already troubled with whatever is happening in regards to Sameer. Keep it to yourself. The case is still ongoing, if need be… you will need to speak for Sameer in court, if you have no objections.” said Inspector Khan.

Dia answered without a second thought, “I will, sir. Anything for my brother.” she then remembered something and asked, “I would like to meet my brother. I called out to him but he did he not heed. He is still angry with us and it is understood. Do you have his address?”

“I do, however, did you not try to call him and ask?” Inspector Khan asked.

“I did but there is a disconnected tone now. I have a text message which came 2 months back which stated that he got a job after which the contact number has since been switched off.” said Dia.

Inspector Khan looked at the number and checked the number he had. He then provided the address and the new contact number to Dia.

“Dia, it is true that he has got supporters but there is no bigger support than your own people. Try to contact him… bring him back. His anger is justified yet I know that somewhere in his heart he wants to come back.” said Inspector Khan.

Dia nodded her head and walked inside while Inspector Khan got into his car. He received a phone call, he checked the number and it was one of his informers, Jatin.

“Sir, some real hot news coming up and I must say even I didn’t expect this.” said Jatin.

“I am listening. Go on.” Inspector Khan answered.

“Sir, Mr. Juneja is one of the sponsors for a political party that is trying to come to power. The political party detest the Home Minister. I got confirmed news that Mr.Juneja was eyeing that position but the ruling party has got all the support thanks to the reign of the Home Minister. The attack on the Home Minister at the rally was entirely planned by Mr. Juneja.” said Jatin.

Inspector Khan was taken aback by this news and reacted, “How the hell did you get this information? I thought I asked you to find out who those people were who hacked into the college systems? Where did you get this information?”

“I will tell you everything. I am sending you my location, meet me there and I will introduce you to someone who will give you every single detail. Enough detail to start a war with Mr. Juneja.” said Jatin.

Inspector Khan couldn’t believe what he was hearing. He put the phone down, started his car and stepped on the gas.

Sameer was back home, he went to meet Govardhan to take the house keys, however, he was in for a shock.

“Sameer, your mother and sister have come to meet you. An old friend of yours has also come. They have taken the keys and are seated in your room. Go meet them.” said Govardhan.

Sameer looked at his room; he couldn’t understand what to do. He was also confused as to how they got to know where he was. He then remembered something and came to a conclusion about it.

“Inspector Khan… he is working on my case, so it is obvious that he went to meet all the people related to the case including my parents. He would have given them my address.” Sameer thought.

He was hesitant at first, taking a deep breath, he walked inside. Dia saw him first; tears welled up as she rushed towards her brother and hugged him hard. It was after 2 months that she saw her brother. Sameer didn’t know how to react, he looked at his mother, Mrs. Malhotra and then his old friend, it was Anita.

He walked towards his mother and touched her feet.

“I accept we were angry. I accept I told you to go away but that does not mean you would walk away from our lives just like that. You are my son, Sameer. You are a part of me, part of our family and yet, you left us alone keeping us totally worried as to where you are and what are you doing.” said Mrs. Malhotra, crying.

Sameer smiled and then said in a sarcastic tone, “What were you people expecting? That you can throw me out of the house and then, expect me to come back with my head held up high. I am still a sinner in your eyes, I was the reason why dad suffered a heart attack and had to be admitted in hospital.

No one… no one was in that state of mind to listen to me or take the slightest effort to ask me whether I really hacked the college systems. You believed what the world said about me and now you are standing in front of me and crying.”

Mrs. Malhotra was speechless; she knew she had no answer for that. She could only be ashamed of not taking the right step at the right time.

Sameer walked towards the window, he looked out at the lighted up city and said, “I do miss everything about my old life. I miss my home, those beautiful moments I spent with all of you; everyday was a festival for me… I always wanted to see myself happy and contented with my family. That was all the ambition I had, mom… that is all I ever wante yet in the eyes of my dad, I was and I am still a good-for-nothing boy.”

“No Sameer, no… don’t say like that…” Mrs.Malhotra started, trying to clear all the misunderstanding yet, she was cut short by Sameer.

“Why shouldn’t I say that? He must be very happy right that I am living such a pathetic life, I deserve this life considering I am a sinner. Tell you what mom, he is right. I deserve it because the name I have made with this so called meagre job is better than that good-for-nothing tag that dad has given me.” Sameer retorted looking at her mother.

Anita was alarmed at the way Sameer was behaving with his mom and spoke up, “Stop it, Sameer. We are all here because we want to help you and you are behaving rudely with us. Have you lost your mind? If you would have been in our place, then you would have also…”

“SHUT UP!” Sameer snapped at Anita, the latter was taken aback.

“Not another word, Anita. If I would have been in your place, I would have given that person an opportunity or a chance to justify himself and then thought of the consequences but you people… and why have you come, Anita? To see how your ex-boyfriend is living and to sneer at me, is it?” asked Sameer, with a smirk.

Anita realized that Sameer was really heartbroken and enraged with whatever happened with him, tears welled up in her eyes as she tried her best to explain herself, “Do you really think I am happy seeing your condition? Sameer, I still love you. It is my love for you that brought me here. I came to ask for forgiveness for not being with you in times of need. I have not come here to sneer at you.

My love is not that hollow to just forget all those moments that I had with you. We all came to help you. To see what we can do to prove that you are innocent. Dad has already decided to get me married to Ritesh but do you think I will be happy with him? I want to give ourselves a chance to be back together again.”

“I know I am innocent and that is enough for me. As for us, we had lost the chance a long time back. There cannot be anything between us. It is finished. I am alive only to prove myself innocent. Inspector Khan has reopened my case and I am confident I will win. Either I will win or I will die trying. Neither do I need anybody nor do I want to be a burden to someone else.

I saw Ritesh trying to molest Dia today. I felt bad, I was filled remorse… I realized that I had taken this fight to my enemy yet I have also jeopardized the lives of the people close to me.”

Mrs.Malhotra and Anita were shocked to hear the last part of this conversation and they looked at Dia who could only hang her head in shame. Inspector Khan had requested her not to say anything to her mom and dad yet Sameer revealed the truth to them.

“Mom, I am sorry… I am sorry for everything. I may have said words that I shouldn't but nothing can be done now. I request you people to leave me alone, you may think I am living a pathetic life but the truth is that this life of mine is a gift. I deserve this gift… so please go away and leave me alone.” said Sameer, looking away from from everyone.

Mrs. Malhotra wanted to say something yet she realized that there was no use. She cried and walked out of the room followed by Dia. Anita started to walk yet she stopped at the doorway. She was still in tears as she looked back and hoped for Sameer to look at her just once… yet neither did Sameer heed nor did he look back. Sameer was no more enraged, instead, he was also in tears. He felt guilty for behaving rudely with the people he loved yet he couldn’t come to terms with what they did with him. Anita wiped her tears, heartbroken and disappointed, she walked away and that is when Sameer turned around.

“They came to see me after 2 months, they came to speak to me... yet I allowed my anger to take control of me. Damn you!!! Damn you, Sameer!!! That is your mother and your sister. That is Anita, your love… the reason why you started to take life seriously. And all you did was tell them to go away. DAMN YOU!!!” saying, Sameer sat down on the ground wailing.

While going back in Anita’s car, Dia narrated the entire incident of how Ritesh and his friends tried to molest her and how Sameer came in time to save her. Mrs.Malhotra couldn’t believe it when Dia said that it was the crowd over there who recognized Sameer and realized that latter was his sister, and eventually pounced on Ritesh and bashed him up.

Anita dropped Dia and Mrs.Malhotra at their house, bidding them farewell, she instructed the driver to move the car. When they entered their house, they found Mr. Malhotra was seated on the sofa reading the newspaper. He then looked at them, put the paper down, stood up and asked, “You went to meet Sameer, isn’t it?”

Mrs. Malhotra and Dia did not answer at first, instead, the former started to walk towards her room. Alarmed, Mr. Malhotra once again asked, “I asked you a question, so don’t you dare walk away from me like that. Did you both go and meet Sameer?”

“Yes, I went to meet him. He is our son, and I believe him… I believe that he has not committed any crime. He was framed and we… his parents believed it outright. We did not try to save him, try to find out the truth and fight for him.” Mrs. Malhotra replied.

“All the evidences, all the proofs were against him… What else did we require?” asked Mr.Malhotra.

“What proof are you talking about? What evidences are you talking about? Did you see those evidences yourself? It is your son you are talking about, not your client or an outsider. You are a government officer, an income tax officer… do you or have you in your career looked at your files or your notes and blindly taken decisions?” asked Mrs. Malhotra, enraged.

Mr. Malhotra stared at his wife; he had no answer for those questions. For the first time, his thoughts went back to the day when he got the news about the hacking, he did not think twice; instead he was enraged and allowed his anger to take full control of him.

“Mom, please… be quiet. Dad is a heart patient.” Dia reminded Mrs. Malhotra.

“I don’t care, Dia. You hear me… I don’t care. A heart patient you say, how can he be a heart patient if he does not even have the heart to understand what is right and what is wrong. He always believed that Sameer was good for nothing and that thing played on his mind that day too. He readily believed that he had hacked the college systems and slapped him repeatedly as though he was a criminal.” Mrs. Malhotra started to cry as she said those words.

Mr.Malhotra sat back on the sofa and covered his face is shame. Mrs. Malhotra sat down on the floor crying profusely now as Dia rushed to console her.

Mrs. Malhotra continued, “Do you have any idea of the condition he is living in? Do you even realize that even in that condition, my son has been called a hero, a saviour. My son is fighting life like a true hero and I, his mother can’t even do anything to get him back. I want my son back. I WANT MY SON BACK. I better die than seeing him rot in that condition.”

Mr. Malhotra was shocked hearing the last sentence. He wanted to say something yet he stopped. He now felt ashamed for whatever he did. He had to make amends before it was too late.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 9

 

Meanwhile, Inspector Khan met up with the informer, Jatin.

“As you can see, this is a roadside bar. A friend of mine, Suresh, works over here. He overheard a man talking about the attack on the home minister and immediately called me up. I rushed over here to meet this guy. According to Suresh, he is a party worker for the opposition party and though not fully involved, knew everything about the planned attack. Before he could get away, Suresh, somehow with the help of his people here were able to grab him and lock him up in the storeroom.” Jatin explained.

Inspector Khan was surprised and exclaimed, “I don’t understand. I mean… I am not questioning your way of work, you people have always proved helpful for the police department yet I can’t help understanding why you people have a gone a mile ahead for this case.”

Jatin smiled and replied, “Well… I think Suresh can answer that.” 

Inspector Khan had called for backup, and they arrived in time.

“Officers, these people have rounded up a prime suspect in Sameer’s hacking case and who also has information about the attack on the home minister. Take him into custody and then we will interrogate him.” Inspector Khan ordered and the officers duly complied.

Suresh walked up to Inspector Khan and said, “I live in the same locality that Sameer lives. My mom had suffered a stroke, and there was a taxi strike that day. There was no way I could take her to the hospital. I never saw Sameer in that locality before; however, I don’t know why… he took the responsibility upon himself. He took Mr. Govardhan’s car, against all odds was able to reach the hospital in time and save my mother.

I am indebted to him, sir. A total stranger… he came out of nowhere, and saved my mother’s life. I have heard about his past. It cannot be true, sir. A good soul like him cannot do this. You have to save him, sir… and we will do whatever it takes to support him. He is a hero to us.”

Inspector Khan didn’t say anything. He walked away from the place towards his car. He sat silent for some time thinking about whatever Suresh said.

“One good deed… that is all, just one good deed. One good deed can go a long way yet we don’t understand the value of that one good deed. Mr.Juneja controlled half this city playing on the people’s fear, while Sameer… just one good deed and he has taken control of this entire city.” Inspector Khan thought with a smile.

At almost the same moment, Ritesh was sitting on the footpath. He was battered and bruised due to the bashing he received from the people. He had somehow escaped from the angry mob; however, his friends were not that lucky. He was in pain yet he was enraged at the situation he was in. His mobile was ringing; however, he was in no mood to pick it up.

His mind rushed through all the events that happened within this year, right from how he met Anita, how he met Sameer, the way Sameer insulted him in front of everyone in college, how he planned the hacking of the college systems… he them remembered going and telling this to his father. His father was wild with temper, “What the hell have you done, you idiot? Always… always up to no good. I am trying to protect my name yet my own son… my own goddamn son is hell bent on destroying it. What the hell do you know about planning and executing? You are nothing but a novice, you idiot. What were you thinking? What the hell were you thinking?

There will be an enquiry set up, the police are not going to just look at the facts in plain sight and make a judgment. There will be questions raised; people involved will be made to answer. Do you have any idea about all this? NO, YOU DON’T. That is because you act before you think. Your anger, your rage… that is going to be the reason for your misfortune. You better stop doing all this nonsense or there will come a day when your father will not be able to save you. I am not going to always be there for you, so start using your brains.”

Ritesh took out his mobile and looked at the screen. There were 25 miss calls… his dad was trying to call him. His thoughts again went back to what his dad said after the college systems were hacked. He remembered how early in the morning his 2 goons were caught by the police and they ‘confessed’ that it was Sameer who told them to. The principal was standing there; he was furious and wanted a thorough police investigation. However, Mr. Juneja came right on time. He along with the police inspector was successful in making the principal understand the situation and not continue with a police investigation. The principal agreed to instead rusticate Sameer.

Now, with Sameer becoming the hero of this city and invariably getting all the support, the case has been reopened. Ritesh clutched his head in despair, there was nothing he could do, there was nothing his father could do, and he started sweating profusely out of fear and desperation. He would be jailed and he would not be able to prove innocent under any circumstances.

“I did all this; I am responsible for the situation I am in. I will make it right. I do not need anyone.” said Ritesh.

He dialed a number and waited for someone to answer.

“Yes brother, what can I do for you?” it was one of Mr. Juneja’s goons, Rafiq.

“Rafiq, do you know where those men are? The men who hacked the college systems?” Ritesh asked.

“Of course. After all, I made them go underground. I, however, heard that the police have reopened the case. I don’t think they will find them for only I know where they are.” Rafiq answered.

“Rafiq, there is no guarantee that they cannot be find. Anything is possible. That being said, I want you to kill them. Kill them, Rafiq and dump them in a place where no one will find them.” Ritesh ordered.

Rafiq went round eyed, he was hesitant to answer. He took a deep breath and said, “Ok brother. As you say. It will be done.”

Ritesh hung up the phone. He got up from his place and slowly trudged towards the place where he left his car. His car was in the same place; he got on the driver’s seat and checked the shelf near the gear box. His prized handgun was kept on it, he took it in his hands and clicked a button that revealed the magazine. It was fully loaded. Satisfied, he loaded the magazine again and cocked the gun. He took out his mobile again and dialed another number; it was the contact number of the professor that provided the reserve keys and the password to the room and the college systems respectively.

“Professor, I would like to meet you now. I hope it is not a problem.” said Ritesh.

The professor was startled receiving Ritesh’s call, he stammered, “Sure… sir… I… I am at home. Come and meet me.”

Ritesh disconnected the phone, started the car and stepped on the gas. He, soon, reached the professor’s house and parked the car a few feet away from the professor’s home.

He contacted the professor again, “Professor, the matter I would like to discuss with you is a bit important. I would like you to come outside where my car is parked. I hope you don’t mind.”

“Of course not, sir. I am coming.” The professor replied.

“And yes, please bring the spare keys of that college systems room with you. No questions please, professor. I will explain everything.” said Ritesh.

The professor agreed and hung up the phone. Ritesh took his handgun, attached a silencer and hid it behind him as he waited with baited breath. Soon, he saw the professor coming. Ritesh looked around to see if anyone was looking at them; it was that part of the night when everyone was in their homes either having their dinner or watching their favourite programs on TV.

“Sir, I have come. I brought the keys too.” said the professor.

“You are aware of the fact that the hacking case has been reopened, isn’t it?” Ritesh asked.

“I am, sir. Inspector Khan was in the college and was questioning a lot of people. I am scared, sir. You have to do something or we will all get caught.” said the professor.

“Well, professor, I cannot save all of them. Besides, I need to first save my own ass before I can think about the others. As for you, professor, I have only one solution.” saying, Ritesh took out his hand gun and brutally shot the professor at point blank. The professor yelled in pain and fell on the ground, dead.

Ritesh did not wait, he took the professor’s mobile, and was about to get on the car when suddenly, he saw another car coming from the right. The car stopped a few feet away. Ritesh was shocked as he saw Anita coming out of the car with the driver. They came forward and could make out the fallen body of the professor.

Ritesh was not in his senses now. He, immediately, fired at the driver who was hit on his left shoulder. Anita screamed in despair as he rushed towards her driver, however, Ritesh ran towards her and put the gun on her head. People in that locality had heard Anita’s scream and were all coming out. Ritesh realized that he had to escape or he would be done for.

“I will blow your brains out, Anita, if you dare open your mouth again. Get into the car or I swear I will kill you.” saying, Ritesh dragged Anita to her car. Anita was at gun point; she couldn’t do anything except listen to every word of Ritesh. She got on the front seat while Ritesh got on the driver’s seat and sped away. The people in the locality had gathered over there and helped the driver to sit up. One of them decided to call the ambulance while another called the police.

Meanwhile, there was a knock on the door at Sameer’s home. Sameer had finished his dinner and was getting ready to sleep.

“Must be Govardhan sir. Who else can it be at this time of the night?” Sameer thought as he opened the door revealing a surprise.

“Dad, what are you doing here at this time?” asked Sameer.

“Why? Do I need to fix an appointment to meet someone like you?” asked Mr. Malhotra.

That was a weird question that Sameer had no answer to; he stepped aside to allow Mr.Malhotra to come in. Mr. Malhotra looked at the room, it was almost the same size as Sameer’s room, however, that room was a part of their house and was more cleaner. Sameer watched in silence as Mr. Malhotra just kept looking around. He then saw the washroom, had a look at it and then came out. A light breeze was coming from the window which Mr. Malhotra noticed; he went and looked out of the window.

“They call me a man of principles and ideals, a man who never gives up, a man who can fall yet, still rise up against any challenge that life would throw at us. It is those same ideals that I wanted to imbibe in you and Dia, however, you never ever showed that zeal that I had. You were always lazy and happy-go-lucky, and try as I may, I could never make you look at life seriously.

However, it is only when I threw out of the house, it is only when I came to my senses that I realized that… that you are my son. My blood runs in you and that all it required was to tell you that we are not that different.” said Mr. Malhotra, Sameer was trying hard to grasp what his father was trying to say.

Mr. Malhotra then looked at his son and narrated a story that was enough for Sameer to understand his father’s predicament.

“My father sent me to shimla for my collegiate studies. I was of your age and believe me, I was just like you, never serious with my life, never had any ambition or goals… yet, I was happy in my world and my family. So it was obvious I didn’t want to go to a hostel yet my father felt that I needed to be disciplined for the life that lay before me.

I don’t think anything changed. I was still the same, perhaps because I may have not been studious but I was intelligent. A trait passed on to Dia and you. One day, I was hanging out with my friends and I was introduced to a senior, Balki. He was another good-for-nothing yet there was a reason why he was ‘respected’ by everyone. He was a son of big shot in shimla, he had all the bad habits.

I was mesmerized by this guy and we would always hang out with him. It just happened that, one day, he wanted to take us all to a bar in the heart of the town and I was interested. Back then, Sameer, there was no debit or credit cards… they were still not introduced. Father used to send me money through the speed post facility. Father used to send me around Rs. 1000 a month, I never needed that much and I would end up saving a lot. Balki said that he needed Rs.2000 from all of us. I was still in my world of fun and therefore, the amount did not sound alarming to me.

I checked my envelope and found that I had the required money. I took them and gave it to balki. We were having a ball at the bar, however, I did not want to drink. Balki’s friends forced me to, it was intentional as I can clearly see now but didn’t realize that time. The drink was strong, just 2 glasses and I was out of my senses. Slowly, I lost touch with reality, I fell to the ground and before, fainting, all I could hear was a police raid and people running around because of it.

I woke up to find myself in the police lock up along with my friends. I could see the principal of my college and 2 more teachers speaking to the police officer. The principal had bailed us out and we received a strong warning. As if that was not enough, our parents were called in. My father was furious with me and slapped me real hard. The sound of that slap still rings in my ears.

“Is this the reason why I send you money every month, you good-for-nothing wretch? You have no concern how much I toil day and night so that you can peacefully complete your studies and have a future yet you waste my hard earned money on all these nonsense. No more pocket money from now onwards.” my father said.

I was sad and felt guilty too. It was my fault. Everything was back to normal; however, my father was still disappointed with me. As usual I did get a speed post from my father… just Rs. 250, no more eating outside whenever I wanted to; I had to depend on the free lunch and dinner the college provided.

I was sitting in my room, one day, and thinking about the day at the bar. I kept thinking if… if anyway, it was possible to turn back time but it was impossible. I was angry at myself. Suddenly, something clicked inside me. My conscience was not pricking me anymore but giving me a signal that I may not be able to turn back time but I can make things right, prove to my father that I do have concern for him.

The same day, I went for a walk in the evening. There was a small restaurant just close to the college. The owner of the restaurant, Steve, knew me because my friends and I used to regularly come to feast on his delicious puddings, cakes, pastries and a variety of omelettes that his restaurant was popular for. Hesitant, I still walked up to him for help.

“Hey there, Puneet! How are you?” Steve asked.

“I am alright. I…ah… Steve uncle, I need your help.” I said.

“What is wrong? You don’t look so good. Everything alright?” Steve asked looking concerned.

“Steve, I need a job, a temporary one if possible.” I replied.

Steve couldn’t believe what I just said. Before, he could ask anything, I explained my situation and narrated the incident at the bar.

Steve started laughing and then said, “He he! Seriously!! Just 2 glasses and you went out cold. You really need some schooling from old boys like us. Anyway, jokes apart, I understand the situation you are in, and I must say I am proud that you understood that you have committed a mistake. How many boys of your age take the slightest trouble to even feel guilty about what they have done?

All in the past now, son. Look around you, it is past 5 pm and the crowd is already coming in. That is where my issue starts; I would love to have an extra pair of hands. It comes to a situation where I have to leave this table of mine and take orders. You can help me out in 2 ways - either you take care of the register here or you take the orders from the customers. Be assured, I will pay you handsomely.”

My joy knew no bounds. I had no issues working as a waiter, my mother used to tell me that no work was big or small. I wasn’t doing this permanently, I was doing this to prove something and I was confident I could do it.

After 2 months, I was working as usual at the restaurant when Steve asked me to take the order from table no. 15. I took out my notepad and walked towards the table; I didn’t notice the couple and asked, “Yes sir, your order?”

There was no answer. I heard a gasp from the lady and I looked at the couple. It was my mom and dad. My dad stood up shocked, I was surprised too yet, I took a grip of myself and once again asked, “How may I help you, sir? Would you like to have some tea and pastries?”

Steve noticed it and walked towards the table. He did not know that they were my mom and dad. Being the owner, he attended to them like regular customers, “Any problem, sir? Has my employee misbehaved with you?”

My father did not speak; he noticed that people in the restaurant were looking at us. He sat down and ordered for bread omelette and tea. I noted the order down and walked up to the chef. After my parents left, I told Steve about them. Steve was surprised but then understood why they were behaving oddly.

“Steve, if you don’t mind… my parents must be waiting for me. Let me go and meet them.” I said.

“Oh, come on, son. I understand everything. Go on, kid, I will take care of things here.” Steve gave the permission to leave and I immediately rushed towards the hostel.

My parents had come down to meet me and also pay the fees too. I took them to my room and made them comfortable. My father did not ask, however, my mother wanted to know.

“Don’t worry, mom. It is just for 3 months. It is the peak season here so Uncle Steve required some help at his restaurant. Just helping him out. Besides, it pays to have a bit of experience. I got to know a lot of things in these 2 months, so I can say I am bit prepared.” I assured my mother.

My mother was proud of me while my father was still silent. When it was time for them to leave, I took out an envelope from my bag and gave it to my father. My father didn’t understand at first, so I opened the envelope and showed him the content.

“I do understand how hard you work to fulfil our dreams. I may have not done it before but I do now. There is Rs.2000 in this envelope, the same amount that I gave or lost for going to the bar. Please keep it.” I said.

My father was shocked, slowly, a smile sprouted and he hugged me hard. I felt so proud of myself that day. He then looked at me and said, “Son, there will be a time when you will have a family of your own. Your son or your daughter will try to follow in your footstep. See to it that the example that you created for yourself today is the same that they see and they do. I may have been angry with you yet we are humans… we all make mistakes but I never stopped loving you or caring about you.

Your kids may also make the same mistakes, it is ok to be angry yet do not leave them. Always support them, let them know, that whatever happens, you will always be there to protect them, love them, and educate them. I bless you, my son. God bless you.”

Mr. Malhotra looked at Sameer after completing the narration. Tears welled up in his eyes as he walked towards Sameer and said, “I looked at the photo of my mother and father in my room and this incident, out of nowhere, came to my mind. I remembered what my father said and took myself to task for forgetting it.

I became so much inclined to my ideals and my principles that I forgot that you and Dia are after all my kids. I should have supported you, protected you, yet, I turned out to be your enemy over here.”

Sameer watched as his father started to cry profusely. This was the first time he had seen him cry. He then remembered what Govardhan had said when he first came to this locality - The world never turns their back to anyone. The world is only oblivious of the fact that there are a few good people out there who deserve to be trusted, deserve to be loved and honored. The world is blind, it is deaf and it is we who should make the world see what it needs to see, make it listen what it needs to hear.

He then looked at his father again… his father, his family… they were his world, they were everything to him yet, when his mom and sister came to meet him, he allowed his anger to take control of him. However, now, he realized that the world… his world… believed him now, they knew the truth. Sameer touched his father’s hand; the latter looked at his son.

“I remember my grumpy old man telling me that men don’t cry, and here you are here… crying like a bollywood heroine. It is ok, dad. It is ok. We were all puppets to a situation, however, the situation is now under our control.” said Sameer.

Mr. Malhotra wiped his tears and then smiled.

“Come back home, son. We all need you. Wait, I will pack your stuffs for you.” said Mr. Malhotra.

“Whoa! Dad, seriously!! You threw me out of the house without any of my stuff. I had to take a loan from Govardhan uncle to buy the ones I am wearing. The only prized possession I have is that costly yet stupid mobile you gave me.” exclaimed Sameer.

Mr.Malhotra stared at Sameer, the next moment; they burst out laughing and then hugged each other. Govardhan came in and his joy knew no bounds to see the father-son duo in a tight embrace.

“God bless you and your family, Sameer. God bless you all.” said Govardhan.

At Sameer’s home, Mrs.Malhotra was sitting at the dinner table and constantly checking the clock.

“What happened, mom? Is something bothering you?” asked Dia.

“Your father went somewhere without telling us. I am worried where he has gone off to. He has not even had his dinner and he needs to leave early tomorrow.” Mrs. Malhotra replied.

Suddenly, they heard a vehicle come and stop next to their house. They walked out to see if it was their vehicle. Mrs. Malhotra and Dia gasped in surprise and happiness as Mr.Malhotra walked through the house gate with Sameer. Dia ran towards Sameer and looked at him, Sameer was about to say sorry for the way he behaved with her before but was cut short as Dia hugged him. She was crying profusely and Sameer consoled her.

“I am back, Dia. I am back. Stop crying now.” said Sameer, wiping Dia’s tears.

He, then, looked at his mother and walked towards her. It was the same thing with her too. Some of their neighbors had come out of their houses to see what was going on, they knew Sameer’s family for so many years and felt so happy looking at the family united once again.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 10

 

Meanwhile, Ritesh dragged Anita inside a warehouse which was actually his father’s hideout for illegal trading. Mr. Juneja’s goons were surprised as Anita was dragged to the office room and then pushed inside. Anita fell on the couch as Ritesh locked the office room door.

“I had everything planned out. Everything was going well. I was trying to destroy all evidences yet you came from nowhere and spoiled everything.” exclaimed Ritesh.

Anita could make out the desperation that Ritesh was in. It did not take her more than a second to realize that everything that was going on with Sameer was planned by Ritesh.

“So you did all this? You had the college systems hacked? You were the one who tried to destroy Sameer’s life?” Anita asked, there was disgust in her voice which Ritesh understood, the latter took out his gun and pointed at her.

Anita was scared, she was shivering with fear looking at the gun, however, something clicked in her mind. She wiped her tears, and building up courage got up from the couch. She walked towards Ritesh, caught hold of his hand and had the gun placed on her forehead.

“I would be lying if I say I am not scared, however, you did all this to get me, isn’t it? So, if I am your prized possession, do you want to kill it?” a smile sprouted on Anita’s lips as she asked this question.

Ritesh went round-eyed and his hands started to shake. Anita continued, “You have dug up your own grave, Ritesh. Your ideas, your plans… everything had a loophole from the start. You never put yourself in a situation, you created situations for yourself that was not necessary and then, put yourself in a web of trouble leading to your father intervening every time and saving you.

I guess even your father realizes that you are nothing but an embarrassment to him yet you never did learn from your mistakes. You continued to show off your power thinking that you are a prince of this city or something and you can do anything you want yet you are wrong.

Power… you want to know what is real power, you want to know what it is to be respected, to be honored. Then you ought to learn from Sameer whose life you wanted to destroy yet look at him. He is a hero now, the whole city knows about him and yet, here you are… my ‘fiancé’ who is known to this city as just another spoilt brat.

Go ahead, Ritesh. Kill me. Besides, I deserve it. I deserve this circumstance of mine, a punishment for not believing in the one I loved so dearly. Go on… if you have the vigour.”

Ritesh couldn’t believe what he just heard. He lowered his gun and grabbed Anita by her neck. She did not struggle, Ritesh looked into her eyes, indeed, she was no more afraid and she meant every word she said. He wanted to say something, however, he couldn’t. He pushed Anita back and stormed out of the room. Anita went back to the couch and sat down.

What do I do now? I need to find a way out. I need to contact somebody. I left my mobile in the car. Dad must be worried... he must be trying my number. My driver… I don’t even know whether he is alive. What do I do? Nothing like this would have happened if I had… if I had given a chance to Sameer to justify himself, supported him in his time of pain.” thought Anita, as she started to cry again.

Sameer’s mobile started to ring at the dead of the night and the former was jolted by it. He switched on the bed light and looked at the mobile. It was Inspector Khan.

“Sir! What happened?” asked Sameer.

“Sameer, your case is not going towards any result… instead, the result itself is coming towards the case.” exclaimed Inspector Khan.

Sameer at first couldn’t grasp the statement and said, “I don’t understand. Please tell me what has happened.”

“I will tell you everything. There is, of course, a bad news. Anita has been kidnapped by Ritesh and we are not sure where he has taken her.” said Inspector Khan.

Sameer was shocked to hear this.

“Sameer, I know it is a bit of an inconvenience, however, is it possible to come to the leelavati hospital immediately. I have Anita’s father with me and he has lodged a complaint against Ritesh as per the statements of a few witness. There is a lot of other information that you need to know. We are close to solving this case, Sameer.” said Inspector Khan.

“I am coming, sir. I am coming immediately.” said Sameer.

He hung up the call, went to his parent’s room and knocked on the door. Mr. Malhotra woke up and opened it.

“Sameer, what happened? What is wrong?” Mr. Malhotra asked.

“Dad, Inspector Khan called me just now. There has been some new development in reference to the hacking case. Ritesh… he has kidnapped Anita and they have no idea where he is. He has some other information too and has asked me to come now.” said Sameer.

Mr. Malhotra was shocked too, “Say again, Sameer! Anita has been kidnapped!

“Ritesh. It was always Ritesh from the start. He planned everything and now, he is desperately trying to remove those loose ends that could lead him to jail.” Sameer responded.

“Indeed, let me get the car keys.” said Mr.Malhotra.

They reached the hospital, sameer walked up to the receptionist and enquired, “I came here to meet Mr. Patil or Inspector Khan.”

A police constable recognized sameer and walked up to him, “Sameer sir, we need to go to the 2^nd floor. This way.”

The constable escorted sameer and his father to a room where sameer noticed that Anita’s driver was admitted. Inspector Khan and Mr. Patil came forward to greet them.

“Thank you, sameer and Mr. Malhotra for coming. As you can see, it is Mr. Patil’s driver who was shot by Ritesh. He is trying to destroy all the evidences against him and in turn, has killed the professor who provided him the spare keys to the room where the college systems were kept. Anita’s car was passing through that street at the same time.

As per eyewitnesses, Ritesh shot the driver too, then dragged Anita into his car and sped away. The driver is out of danger; however, we really have no idea where Anita is.” Inspector Khan explained the situation.

Mr. Patil, guilty as he was for not believing sameer, said in a low tone, “I am paying the price for not giving you a chance. I don’t know where and how my daughter is. If I would have known this would happen, I would have rejected the alliance with Mr. Juneja a long time back.”

Sameer nodded his head in disagreement and said, “Please, uncle, the past is where it is supposed to be. Mr. Juneja and Ritesh have together caused a friction among us, this is what they do, and this is what they have always been doing to climb their ladder of success. Not anymore, it is time we end this. We will figure something out.”

Mr. Patil always thought high of sameer, he was more impressed today. Inspector Khan then shared the complete details and findings of sameer’s hacking case. Sameer, Mr. Malhotra and Mr. Patil was in shock and awe listening to the facts.

“Thanks to one of our informers, we caught hold of a man at a roadside bar. He confessed that he was a goon working for Mr. Juneja. He stated that it was Mr. Juneja who had planned the attack on the home minister, he is one of the sponsors for the opposition party and was actually eyeing that seat.

He stated that he reports to a man named Rafiq who is Mr. Juneja’s right hand man. Rafiq arranged for 2 men to go and hack the college systems. It is obvious that ritesh and rafiq did not have wind of what was to happen next. They played blind and now, Ritesh is trying to destroy the evidences.”

“We have to save Anita. She is now a witness to everything. Ritesh may not want to kill her; however, I cannot say the same for Mr. Juneja. He will still try to save his son.” said sameer, feeling concerned.

Inspector Khan then received a call; he walked away from everyone and then answered the call. After speaking to someone, he hang up the call, came back to the group and informed, “We had got the contact numbers for Mr. Juneja and Rafiq, we have confirmed locations about them, however, the man we caught does not have Ritesh’s number. If we can nab Rafiq, he can tell where Ritesh is. I will have to go now.”

Suddenly, Mr. Patil received a call from an unknown number. He answered the call and was surprised, it was Anita, “Dad, it is me… Anita. Please help me.”

“Anita, where are you? Where are you calling from?” Mr. Patil asked in desperation.

“I don’t know. This looks like a factory. Ritesh locked me up in his office room. I am taking a big risk, dad. He failed to notice that this office has a landline. Please locate this place with this number. I am hanging up.” saying, Anita disconnected the phone.

“Hello… hello… ANITA…she disconnected the line.” said Mr. Patil.

“Where is she? Did she give a location?” asked Inspector Khan.

“No, she was speaking in a hushed tone. It looks like there are a lot of people out there and she, somehow, managed to call us.” Mr.Patil explained.

“Your daughter is really brave. This is it, people. Mr.Juneja and Ritesh are not getting away with this. Give me the number, Mr. Patil.” said Inspector Khan.

Inspector Khan contacted his deputy again and asked him to track the location of the landline number. Sameer was in deep thought; he suddenly remembered those lovely moments that he had with Anita. He shuddered when he realized that Anita was deep trouble. He had to do something… he had to help her. He still loved her and now, when the dark clouds that hovered around him for so long were clearing out, he wanted her back.

“I am leaving now. Don’t worry, Mr. Patil. We will find your daughter.” said Inspector Khan.

“Sir, if you don’t mind, I would like to come with you.” said sameer.

Inspector Khan stared at sameer and reacted, “Are you at out of your mind? It is Mr.Juneja we are talking about. He will do anything to save his son. Anything can happen over there.”

“Don’t worry about me, sir. I won’t come in your way. Do you job, however, I am worried about her. We are all worried about her. I cannot stand here like this and expect news. Thanks to you, I got my family back, I want Anita back too and I want to help her.” said sameer.

Inspector Khan thought for some time, nodding his head in disbelief, he said, “Keep a safe distance and for no reason, come in the line of fire if a firefight breaks out.”

Sameer nodded his head in agreement.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 11

 

At the warehouse, Mr. Juneja walked inside along with Rafiq.

“Ritesh! Ritesh, YOU GOOD FOR NOTHING BRAT!! COME OUT… COME OUT OR I AM GOING SKIN YOU ALIVE.” Mr. Juneja yelled, he was burning with rage.

Ritesh walked towards his father, his feet trembled looking at him. He was also shocked to see that the the men who had hacked the college systems were still alive and looked at Rafiq in disbelief.

“I am sorry, brother. I know it is my duty to help you, however, this is a job that I couldn’t do without telling your father. Your father was planning to send you abroad, far away from all situations and that is the reason why he has been trying to call you yet you did not answer the phone. You ended up calling me and telling me to kill them.

I understood that you were trying to destroy the evidences. It is my mistake, Mr.Juneja… I did not realize that he would go and meet the professor, I did not realize that he would kill him.” said Rafiq.

Ritesh was again shocked… How did Rafiq know that he had killed the professor? It did not take him a minute to realize that the news had spread like wild fire… he was done for.  

He looked at his father again and wanted to say something but before he could speak, his father caught hold of him and kept slapping him hard. Ritesh begged for mercy but his father was relentless. Rafiq, realizing that Mr.Juneja could kill his son in anger, caught hold of the latter in an attempt to subdue him.

“Mr. Juneja, control yourself. He is your son… he is your son, goddammit!” exclaimed Rafiq.

Mr. Juneja looked at Rafiq and then back at Ritesh. He controlled himself and lowered his hand. Anita could see what was going on through the office window.

“Yes, of course, he is my son. HE IS MY SON. A son who is hell bent in bringing disgrace to my name… a son who is hell bent on destroying everything that took me years to create. I created all this for him, for his future and he doesn’t understand it.” said Mr.Juneja.

Ritesh looked at his dad, tears welled up in his eyes as he blurted everything that was in his mind for so long, “You are right, dad. I will never understand it, I never understood it. Why? Why do you think I never understood it? That is because I never had you by my side to make me realize my purpose.”

Mr. Juneja stared at Ritesh, the latter continued, “I was 5 when mom passed away. Since then, I always looked up to you for love and comfort yet you were always busy with your work, with your business… I had nobody with me to tell me what is right and what is wrong. If I did something right, there was no one to encourage me, if I did something wrong, there was no one to correct me.

The last thing I know, I just kept doing what I thought was right. I saw how people respected you and never questioned you. I saw how you made the life of people hell whenever they questioned you. I wanted the same for myself. I wanted to be loved; I wanted to be respected… I wanted to have everything.

There was no one to stop me, not even you. I wanted everything and whenever something couldn’t be mine, I either snatched it or destroyed it. Is it my fault? If it was, then why didn’t you stop me? Why didn’t anybody stop me? You slapped me today… why didn’t you slap me when I did my first mistake. I remember I had stolen someone’s bike when I was in school, a police case was registered yet you did not scold me, did not slap me that time… just used your power and influence to silence those who complained against me.

I was never serious about my studies because like all other parents, you never asked me. When was the last time you asked how I did in my exams, when was the last time you asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up? I am 24 years old, do you even know that… yet I still go to college. I haven’t completed my studies.

I saw Anita in college, she is so beautiful and thus, I wanted her… I craved for her love. Yet, I got to know that she was seeing Sameer. My blood boiled, and once again, no one stopped me. I was hell bent on destroying Sameer’s life. I thought I succeeded yet the reality is right in front of me.

I have committed a crime. I tried to destroy all my mistakes yet Anita saw me… so many people saw me. The police are after me and I have no place to hide. I am finished… and this time, no one can save me, not even you, dad. Not even you.”

Ritesh sat down on the ground and clutched his head in anguish as he cried bitterly. Mr. Juneja looked at his son, for the first time in his life, he realized that his son was right; the former sat down on a chair and clutched his head too. Anita was able to hear every word of Ritesh.

“I must say I pity him now. He is not a spoilt brat, he is just another man who never got what he deserved. An animal that was never taught what was right and what was wrong. Nothing can be done now. He has already committed a lot of crimes that he is answerable for. There is no escape for him. It would be best if he surrenders, that is all.” Anita thought.

Anita then saw Mr. Juneja getting up from his seat, she watched in horror as he took out his handgun and shot the 2 men who had hacked the college systems. There was no mercy; his hands did not tremble while he shot them.

Ritesh saw the 2 men fall to the ground dead. He then saw his father come close to him, the latter lifted him up and said, “I am sorry, Ritesh. I am sorry for everything. I will now do what I should have done a long time ago. You are my son and I cannot stand here watching you taken away from me. We have to get you out of here. However, you will have to sacrifice one thing for your safety.”

“Sacrifice! What do I need to sacrifice?” asked Ritesh confused.

“Anita. You cannot have her. She is a burden now, she is a prime witness and she needs to be silenced before you leave this place.” said Mr. Juneja.

Ritesh looked at the office room, he saw Anita standing near the window and realized that she had heard and seen everything that was going on over here. He was disappointed at first yet he yielded and said, “Alright, dad. As you wish. Do what needs to be done.”

Mr. Juneja then ordered 2 of his men to bring Anita to them. The 2 men listened, and walked towards the office room. Anita understood and began to panic. The 2 men caught hold of her and dragged her downstairs. She struggled to break free but there was no escape. She was brought to the middle of the room and Mr. Juneja walked towards her.

“We have no enmity against you. It is the situation. I cannot see my boy going to jail. You have to be silenced. Forgive us for it.” said Mr. Juneja, aiming his gun at her forehead.

Anita started to cry again. Accepting the fact that this could be her last moment, she prayed to God and asked for forgiveness. Her mind flashed through all those moments with her father, her friends, she cried profusely when Sameer’s face flashed up.

“I am so sorry, Sameer. I am so sorry. I am paying the price for disbelieving you. Forgive me if you can.” said Anita to herself.

Suddenly, there was a gunshot and Anita screamed. Her eyes were closed and it took her some seconds to realize that nothing happened to her. She slowly opened her eyes to see Mr. Juneja, Ritesh and their goons looking at the warehouse gate. The police had arrived and leading the force was Inspector Khan.

“Drop your weapons everyone or we will be forced to shoot. Mr. Juneja, Ritesh… surrender yourself. There is no escape. You may have tried to destroy all your evidence yet we still have all information about your crimes. You better not do anything stupid.” said Inspector Khan.

Anita looked at the force and spotted Sameer in the group. He was wearing a bullet proof jacket just in case a fire fight broke out. She couldn’t believe it and a smile sprouted, Sameer spotted her too and smiled back. He nodded his head indicating that everything would be fine.

Sameer stayed back and hid behind a machine while the force came forward to nab the criminals. Ritesh started to panic, he was angry at everyone and everything, he lost his mind and allowed his anger to take control. He yelled in anger, grabbed hold of Anita and clasped his gun on her forehead.

Sameer was horrified by this move, while Inspector Khan stopped his force from moving forward.

“Ritesh, don’t do it. Surrender yourself. There is no escape. Mr. Juneja, please explain to your son.” Inspector Khan said firmly.

Ritesh’s hasty act made even the goons aim their weapons at the police force and the latter had their fingers on their triggers. Sameer, building up courage, came out of his hiding and stood ahead of the police force, alarming Inspector Khan.

“Sameer, get back here. You will be killed.” said Inspector Khan.

Sameer smirked and said, “Who will kill me? Ritesh!! Look at his hands, sir. He is afraid, he is shivering… he knows his game is up yet he is behaving as though he has one more card to play. The truth is, he is a coward, he is someone who has been in his father’s shadow all his life. Go ahead, Ritesh… besides, you wanted Anita. You did all this to get Anita. Here I am, Ritesh. Kill me… and fulfil your ‘dream’.”

Ritesh stared at Sameer in disbelief, the latter stood without any fear while the former had a gun in his hand yet trembled in fear. Anita took a deep breath and thought hard, he could make out Ritesh shivering, she saw Ritesh’s hand which was not steady, he then looked at Sameer who was wearing a bullet proof jacket. She had to make a move; she had to take a chance. No way these people could go scot-free, they had committed enough crimes, taken the lives of many innocent people.

She looked at Sameer and said, “Sameer, I am sorry for everything. I want you to know that I always loved you. I want you to know that I deeply regret not believing in you. I hope you will forgive me.”

Sameer looked at Anita, confused. The next moment, Anita kicked Ritesh’s feet; the latter winced in pain and staggered back. Anita did not think twice and scurried towards Sameer. The latter, horrified at Anita’s act, ran forward. He looked behind Anita, Ritesh had taken a grip of himself and aimed the gun at her. Sameer grabbed Anita and turned around, Ritesh fired the gun and Sameer was hit on the back. He winced and the force of the bullet pushed him. As Sameer and Anita fell to the ground, a firefight began between the goons and the police force.

Sameer grabbed hold of Anita and covered her from incoming fire. All the goons were killed, 3 police officers were martyred, when the firefight stopped, Sameer and Anita got up.

“Sameer, are you alright? Please tell me you are alright. I am sorry, I am so sorry.” Anita reacted.

“Damn you, Anita, that was seriously radical.” Sameer reacted back.

Anita looked at Sameer in tears; the latter then smiled at her, kissed her forehead and hugged her. After a long time, Anita heaved a sigh of relief and embraced Sameer. The latter looked around and then took of his bullet proof jacket, and turned it around to see the bullet deeply etched into it.

Anita looked to her right and gasped in horror. Sameer, confused, looked at the same direction. Along with the goons, Mr. Juneja and Ritesh also lost their lives, Sameer and Anita could make out that they were shot multiple times… a brutal way to die. Anita looked away due to the bloodshed, while, Sameer continued to look at Ritesh’s body.

“It is ok, Anita. It is ok. This is how it works out. Let us go home.” said Sameer.

As the police were doing their job, Sameer dialed Mr. Patil’s number and gave it to Anita, saying, “Your father was worried, quite obviously. Here, speak to him.”

Anita took the phone and spoke to her father; the latter heaved a sigh of relief. He even conveyed the message to Mr. Malhotra that his son was also safe and they were coming back.

A few days later, while sameer awaited the court hearing in reference to the hacking case, he however received permission from the management of his college to continue his studies. The locality that he lived hosted a grand party in his honor inviting him, his family and Anita. Inspector Khan was also invited along with his family and they had a ball.

Damodar was teary eyed realizing that Sameer was leaving the job and going back to finish his studies. Sameer couldn’t help laughing at Damodar’s antics.

“For the love of god, Damodar! Seriously!! You are behaving as though I am going to leave this planet or something.” Sameer commented.

“We have worked together only for 3 months, however, they were the best and the most adventurous moments of my life. I will cherish them always. I am happy though… happy for you and your family.” said Damodar.

Sameer then looked at Govardhan and said, “I have learned a lot from you, uncle. Every word of yours is etched inside of me, and I promise you, no matter whatever happens in life, I will never give up.”

“Stay blessed, son. And take care of yourself and your family.” said Govardhan.

The very next day, Sameer reached college and found Anita waiting for him at the gate. As both stepped in, Sameer was surprised to find a huge board with words – SAMEER THE SAVIOUR, WELCOME BACK. Sameer was then welcomed among huge cheers from the college students and teachers. Words of praise fill the air as the principal approached him.

“I got influenced by a criminal like Mr. Juneja and took such a drastic step. I am sorry for whatever happened to you… please forgive me.” said the principal.

Sameer nodded his head in disagreement and said, “Please sir. Let’s forget the past and move on. What has happened, has happened. It is good to be back, sir and I will see to it that the name of this college is not tarnished anymore.”

“Well done, my boy. Welcome back.” said the principal.

As the students started to leave for their classes, Sameer’s old friends, Dinesh and Sangeeta walked towards him.

“I guess even you people will apologize and say the same boring dialogue that the principal said or wanted to say.” said Sameer.

The friends looked at each other, Sangeeta was about to say something but Sameer cut her short, “You people are forgiven. No apologies needed but yes, you people do deserve a big punishment.”

“And what is that?” asked Dinesh, confused.

“Exams are 15 days away and I have nothing… no notes, absolutely no idea of whatever happened in class. No way am I repeating a year again to clear my graduation, so you people better help me out.” said Sameer.

The others started laughing at that comment, and Dinesh, winking his eyes, said, “Don’t worry about that, dude. We will see to it that you pass. Legally or… a bit illegally…”

Call it irony, Sameer raised his right eyebrow at that comment and then burst out laughing along with the group. They hugged each other and then walked towards the main building to attend their classes.

 

THE END