The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 42

Jasmine had almost given upon on her parents just like other things in her life - career and relationship. She was depressed. Nothing seemed working in her life. She failed to be good daughter, friend, girlfriend or successful hairstylist. She had completely lost hope in her life. Zainab and Tina tried to revive her spirits. They took her out, treated her with her favorite snacks and pampered her all the time. But nothing interested her. She was still gloomy and unhappy.

As she looked out of the window, staring blankly at the clear blue sky after refusing Zainab to accompany her for a movie, her phone rang. It was her mom. "Jasmine, How are you, beta ?", her mom spoke. Jasmine froze. She had no words to speak. "Won't you say anything? Are you still angry with us ? We are sorry, sweetheart. We always love you.", her mother continued. Tears welled up in her eyes, Jasmine controlled her emotions that were in verge of bursting out of her heart.

After few minutes of silence, she broke down,"Ammi, I.. am sorry. You were right. I want to come back home. Mumbai was never the place for me. Please let me come back home. I promise.. I will never break your trust again..." Her mother consoled her and asked her to come back home. She promised that she would convince her dad to let her in. Jasmine relaxed bit though she was still sad.

When she informed Zainab about her mother's conversation,Zainab was stunned. She thought she would convince Jasmine in few days. She wanted to slap her and bring sense to her. But she didn't speak to her.

Zain looked like as if he hadn't slept for days. He hadn't trimmed his beard which had grown unruly and wild. He had sleep bags under his eyes. The spark that glowed from his face had disappeared. He looked miserable. His friends asked him about his conditions though they were aware he had rough breakup with his girlfriend. They wanted to bring back the old charming Zain. He stayed away from everyone and spent most of his time in thinking about Jasmine and what could have gone better between them. He felt more guilty thinking about all impossibilities. 

He stared blankly at computer screen. His eyes burned due to lack of sleep. He stretched to release the heaviness he felt inside him. Then he got up to take few minutes of break. He walked out of his small office to make shift tea stall. While he was sipping hot tea, he heard his name called out. He turned behind to see Usha Tai. He smiled at her. 

"Hi Tai, How are you ? Do you need some tea?", he asked politely. Tai declined his offer but asked him if he could spare some few minutes for her. Zain agreed. "Zain, I am sorry for all the inconveniences I caused you and Jasmine.", she began to speak. He was distraught when he heard Jasmine's name. "Why are you saying sorry ? We were the ones who had caused you inconvenience by keeping a secret about our relationship...", he said almost realizing that he had revealed the truth. "I know the truth. I know Jasmine and you are a couple. I forgive your for lying to me about your relationship status. But I am feeling miserable that I caused some problems between you and Jasmine. Please forgive me for this sin. I got influenced by my anger and see what mess it has created. I am sure my husband must be lamenting me for my sins in heaven.", she said sorrowfully. Zain smiled weakly at her innocence. He knew the real reason for their break up. It wasn't Tai. It was their egos that had messed their relationship.

(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 41

Three months had already passed. Many things happened in these three months. Tai had started searching for tenants for her flat as soon as Zain had notified her about leaving the flat. She had asked him the reason and even asked about Jasmine's absence. He had lied her that she had already shifted to PG as it was nearer to her workplace. Tai could see the pain in his eyes when he spoke about Jasmine. She felt there was something fishy in his explanation. "Did they broke up?", she has been wondering since that day.

Jasmine was in distraught condition. She felt guilty for ruining her relationship with Zain. She felt she didn't deserve him and hence never tried to get back with him. Instead she was trying to fix her relationship with her parents. She wanted to get back to home and erase all the memories she had in the city she called as her home. Zainab tried to coax her to stay but she never listened. She kept saying sorry to Tina whenever she met her. Even Tina tried to patch up Jasmine and Zain. Unfortunately all her efforts went in vain.

Tai was watching her favorite sitcom on TV. Ravi had come home to visit her. After casual chat, both were engrossed into the idiot box. It was an interesting scene. The mother in law was almost caught red handed by the simpleton daughter in law for snooping into her activities. This reminded Tai about her ordeal with snooping into her tenant's life. She felt ashamed of her actions. Watching Tai's expressions, Ravi asked, "What happened, Kakki?" 

Tai smiled weakly. "I .. I am feeling bad now when those tenants are leaving the house. I feel I stooped low like this wretched mother in law in the show. There is some problem in their relationship. I feel I could be the reason for that problem. I should be feeling happy because I succeeded in making their lives miserable. But I m feeling terrible here.", she said sorrowfully.

Ravi knelt down in front of Tai sitting on sofa. He pressed her hands gently and spoke, "What you felt is normal. You have right to feel anger for the lies they told you. You could have confronted them and displaced them. But you didn't. You were influenced by anger. Now the purpose of your anger is over and hence you feel guilty. If you want to rectify the mistakes, confront them now. I am sure they must be feeling the same pain you are going through. Confront them to release their and your pain."

She sighed. She decided to visit Zain next morning. She didn't want to visit him now. She had to plan what to speak to him. Words thought carefully would have positive impact than the words spoken without thinking. Next morning, she visited Zain immediately. After difficult climb to Flat No #2, she found the door locked. She slapped her head in despair. 

(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 40

Zain remembered the days when he would find Jasmine researching on latest hair styles trend and experiment it on herself. She would always pester him how it looked on her. She always looked pretty to him. He felt ashamed for not understanding the pain she went through. He punched the table very hard. Tina shook in fear while others looked at their table to see what was the commotion. They got back to their work when they sensed nothing.

Tina held his injured fist gently. "I understand your guilt. I am feeling the same. We can't do anything to change the past. But we can at least make our present better. Go and speak to her. I know where she will be. I will take you there.", she said calmly. He nodded gently. 

"Are you mad, Jasmine ? How can you leave your job like that ? What will you do now ?", Jasmine's cousin asked. "The job wasn't right for me. Abbu was right. This place was not for me. I didn't listen to them. I got influenced by my false dreams. I will go back home. But will they accept me?", Jasmine cried.

Suddenly door bell rang. Her cousin opened the door. It was Zain and Tina. "What are you guys doing here ?", she asked. "We want to speak to her. Please let us in.", Zain replied.She let them in. Jasmine got annoyed when she saw them. "Why did you let them in, Zainab ? I don't want to talk to them. It's over.", she spoke furiously.

She was about to leave when Zain grabbed her by her arms and dragged her towards him. He stared deeply into her eyes. There was still love in them. "Listen to us at least once. You have made all decisions without informing me. You left the house. You left your job. I didn't say anything. But I will now.", he said after releasing her immediately. "I thought you were a fighter. How could you be so dumb? Shweta was insecure about your talent. So she gave the reward to Tina because she couldn't bear your energy. How can you break your friendship over such a tiny thing like competition ?", he continued.

Before Jasmine could open her mouth, Zain spoke again, "You left me without saying anything. You didn't bother to even pick my calls. But what you did was wrong. You broke my heart. You can't come and go out of  my life whenever you like. I am not your game."  He left without saying goodbye. Jasmine wept hard while Tina hugged her tight. 

(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 39

Tina turned back to see two of her colleagues staring at her with wide eyes. One of them fled when they saw her approaching them. "We are sorry. We didn't say anything. It could be rumor spread by Meena.", her colleague blurted out. Tina wiped her eyes and glared at her. She knew Meena also envied  Jasmine's work and would do anything to stay in Shweta's good books. Meena was unofficially Shweta's pet. 

She proceeded to confront Meena who was busy trimming her nails and humming a popular Hindi song. "Meena darling, I heard you have some juicy news about Jasmine. Won't you share it with me ?", she asked sweetly. Meena stopped humming and looked up to find Tina towering over her. She was short and plump woman, filled with insecurity about her body.  "Why do you want to know ? Wasn't your ex.. Oops ! Best Friend ?", she said sarcastically.

" Hmm ! I will tell you what caused her to become my ex friend if you spill beans about her.", Tina said with gleaming eyes. Meena smiled. "Ok ! Listen! Shweta hates Jasmine because you know right, her favorite client was impressed by Jasmine's work and Shweta hates when someone takes her spot. So she declared you as winner though Jasmine was better than everyone. She knows you won't outshine her in front of her clients and will always be under her. Anyway, who knew this would irk Jasmine so much that she would leave the job.", Meena said while rolling her eyes because she thinks she looks cool by rolling her eyes out.

"Tell me about how you and Jasmine turned from friends to foe.", she asked excitedly. Tina was shocked. She always thought  Shweta was impressed with her work. "Well! Jasmine never became my foe. She is always my best friend. Now that you cleared the misunderstanding between us, it will become more stronger. Thank you, Meena.", Tina said. She hugged Meena tightly while Meena grumbled. 

Zain wasn't focused at work. He was remembering the sweet memories he shared with Jasmine. He missed her innocence. He missed her sweet banter. He missed her smile. He missed everything about her. His phone rang. He immediately picked it up without seeing who was calling. He thought it was Jasmine. But it was Tina. "Hi ! I have something to tell you. It's about Jasmine. Can you meet me at 4 in the evening at the cafe next to my parlor ?", she asked. He agreed to meet her. 

They met at the cafe. The cafe was empty with few youngsters having coffee and pastries. Zain and Tina stared at the rim of their coffee mugs. After few minutes of silence, Tina spoke, "I can't imagine Shweta could be so insecure. We all look up at her with great respect and admiration. Because of her, Jasmine left her job. Because of her, Jasmine broke her friendship with me." Zain stared at her with shock and confusion. He didn't know how to react. He felt even more guilty for not being there for Jasmine.

(To be continued) 

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 38

Jasmine woke up to sound of chirping birds outside. She found Zain next to her bed. He was sleeping with his head lying over his folded hands while sitting on the floor. She sneakingly got up and packed her bag. She noticed him every time he snored. She gently opened the door and closed it behind her. She quickly kept her keys on the table next to the sofa.She looked at the house one last time before leaving.

An hour passed since she had left. Zain woke up slowly. He saw empty bed. The bed wasn't made. The bed sheets still lay on the bed like someone had used it. He got up and started searching for Jasmine. He looked every corner of the house. She wasn't there. He found the spare set of keys of the house. " Does this mean, she left?", he wondered. Suddenly he felt emptiness within him.

He quickly called her number. She didn't pick up. He kept calling her. She still didn't pick up. Then he gave up. He called Tina. "Hi, How are you ?", he said. "I am fine. How is Jasmine ? Did she wake up?", he asked. "She left. I don't know.. I know it's wrong to ask you after what happened yesterday. Did she come to your place ?", he asked. Tina was astonished. " I will talk to her when she come back.", she said. Both knew it was too difficult to speak to her now. 

Jasmine was at her cousin's house. Her cousin sister was one amongst few she shared good relationship. She had narrated her woeful story to her sister. "Hmm! But he seemed like a good boy. I liked you with him. I always thought Tina was sensible girl. Are you sure you want to leave the job because of your tiff with your best friend?", her sister asked. 

Tina arrived at the work. She found Jasmine and Shweta in deep discussion. The discussion took place for about an hour. She couldn't understand what was going. Shweta arrived with Jasmine and called everyone for meeting. "It's sad news today. One of our talented stylist is leaving us. Jasmine, we wish you all the luck. Thank you for being part of our family. You will be missed.", Shwetha said with pretentious sorrow.

Tina felt pinch in her heart. She felt guilty. Her eyes were welled up with tears. She waited for her turn as Jasmine hugged each and every one. When there was no one around her, she approached her. But Jasmine ignored her and left. She kept calling her name. But she didn't respond. Tina cried silently while she heard soft whispers behind her. She turned behind her to see two of her colleagues staring at her with wide eyes.

(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 37

Tina released herself from embracing her friend whom she was meeting after long time. She smiled at him. Zain was relieved. He was thinking about how happy Jasmine would be when she gets to know what surprise they had planned for. They were about to enter the building when they saw Jasmine was red faced. She looked very angry. As they got closer to her, she ran upstairs.

Tai greeted them with smile and good wishes. "Oh she is your girl friend ! You make good couple. I think Jasmine was upset because of your girlfriend unexpected visit. Ask her to make those yummy fries she made last time. I will also join if you don't mind.", she said with pretentious happiness as if she didn't know the truth. This was her way of teaching them lesson. "Aunty, we are friends !", Tina said. 

"I know. I know. Everyone says the same thing when they get caught.", Tai joked. Zain ignored her while grabbing Tina's hand and running upstairs. Tai didn't like the way she was ignored. "Look at these tenants ! If you show them some gratitude, this the way they pay us.", she said aloud while entering her flat. Zain first knocked the door. Then he realized he had the key, he opened the door quickly. Tina and he found Jasmine curled up in the sofa. She was crying.

Tina got closer to her. "Jasmine, why did you run when you saw us ? Aren't you happy seeing us?",  Tina asked calmly, placing her palm gently over her friend's lap. Jasmine brushed her hand off from her lap. "Happy! Why should I be happy watching my best friend taking over my dreams and now my boy friend?", she growled, spitting anger towards Tina. Tina , tear eyed rose up. She was shocked by her friend's allegation. "What are you saying?", she asked softly. 

"Don't act naive! I saw you both hugging.", Jasmine cried.  Zain couldn't take this any longer. He grabbed Jasmine's arms and dragged her closer to him. "Here we were planning to surprise with treats and goodies to make you feel better and you are accusing us for something we haven't done. You have taken failure into your head so much that you are accusing Tina for jeopardizing your career and love. If she wanted to hurt you, she wouldn't be here to help you make you feel better. You are selfish person. Always complaining and hurting people. If you are true friend, you should have been happy for her instead of blaming her for silly things.", he said sternly. 

"Leave my hand !", she said, trying to release herself from his tight grip. He left her. "Yes, I am selfish ! I always overreact on small things. I am not good friend or good girlfriend or daughter or employee or human. I...", she fainted before completing her sentence. Zain and Tina rushed beside her. They took her to her room and placed her on the bed. They sprinkled some water over her. She woke up but she was feeling weak. They fed her some food and put her to sleep. Tina left with heavy heart while Zain took care of Jasmine by sitting beside her and watching her if she needed something.

(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 36

Zain got up late. He hurried to get ready. He noticed the door was still closed. It didn't strike him why the door was locked or whether she was still inside. His mind was absorbed on how he would reach office early for client presentation. He quickly ate few slices of bread and drank cold milk. His phone rang. It was his friend. He didn't pick up. He scooted towards the door and rushed to office.

She lay on her bed. She didn't feel like getting up. She wanted to sleep and remain hidden from people. She knew people wouldn't care if she was there or not in this planet. Her parents were miffed with her for running away from home to start a career in hair styling in Mumbai. Her friends and cousins were struggling with their lives. Her best friend Tina was flying high and wouldn't bother to notice loser like her. Her boyfriend was annoyed with her constant complain. No one was happy with her. She wished she was not born.

It was afternoon. She still lay on her bed like vegetable. Her phone rang. Some calls were from her boss and some were from Tina. She didn't pick the calls. She was tired of speaking to anyone or answering everyone's questions on where was she or what happened to her though she hadn't answered to anyone or spoke to anyone. She felt low.

The meeting was success. Zain was happy to bag the offer. He had just settled in his seat and was about to switch on the monitor to check few mails when Tina called him. "Hey Zain ! How are you? Is Jasmine okay?", she asked nervously. "Hey Tina ! I am fine ! How are you? Jasmine is fine, I guess. Why do you ask?", he replied. "Jasmine hasn't come to work. I only wanted to know whether she was okay. She seemed upset yesterday.",  she said ,concerned about her friend. 

Zain was worried. He realized why the door was locked and it alarmed him suddenly. "Lord ! She is at home. I don't know how many hours she is locked in that room. She didn't have any food. I am coming. Can you meet me near my place? She needs us. Let's surprise her.", he said anxiously. Tina agreed to come. 

It was evening. Jasmine's tummy growled. She got up. She was hungry. She dragged herself to the kitchen. There was nothing that enticed her taste bud. She remembered about the restaurant that served hot dosas next to the apartment. She took bath and dressed up in plain T shirt and pyjamas. She tied her hair into a simple ponytail without brushing the ends of her hair. When she reached downstairs, she saw Usha Tai standing at the entrance with her back towards her.  Tai was watching outside with keen smile. When she saw Jasmine's dull face, she quickly said,"Look, don't they make good couple. Your brother look so perfect with that girl. Jasmine watched in horror. Tina and Zain were hugging.

(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 35

Two weeks passed and it marked the end of three month contest of who will assist Shwetha in upcoming film fest. Everyone looked at Shwetha with their heart beating faster. She was going to announce the names. Jasmine was sure it was going to be her. She had not left a stone behind to impress her boss. But still she was nervous.

"So I have checked your work these three months. Everyone were impressive. But I can't take everyone with me.", she joked. Everyone laughed nervously. " I have a name. She has surpassed everyone of you. She has been dark house amongst you. Her name is..", she continued while everyone watched her clutching each other's hand.

"It's Tina ! ", she said at last breaking the suspense. There was mixed response from everyone. Some were happy for her. Some were not so happy. That included Jasmine. She watched her best friend saunter towards Shwetha and shake hands with her. Jasmine always thought it was going to be her. She wondered what went wrong in her efforts. Everyone had told her that she was way better than them. She would win the contest. She sneakingly left for home. Tina was busy receiving congratulatory wishes from others. She had only noticed her friend absence when she left.


Jasmine locked herself in her room. Her phone rang few times. It was Tina. She didn't pick up. She was sulking. She had built dreams of flying with Shwetha to gather experience of styling Bollywood star. She had even made plans of taking pictures and photos with stars she had seen in big screen. Now everything was messed up. Her dreams shattered. Now she would be here sulking here while Tina gets to relive 'her' dream. She recalled all the memories she shared with Tina. She had remembered telling her about her dreams and fears of how she would impress Shwetha. But now everything seemed clear.

Tina's words of consoling her to make her feel better whenever she felt she was lacking efforts to impress her boss now looked like a big fat lie. "She only wanted to make me feel better. She wanted to distract me from mistakes I had committed so that I can falter more in my work. She knew Shwetha wouldn't pick me because my work wouldn't match the quality. I believed her words. I am such a fool.", she contemplated.

She felt like her whole world was coming to end. She didn't realize when Zain arrived. Zain didn't bother to check on her. He got refreshed and changed to casual T shirt and pyjamas. He got busy with his laptop. He was already sulking because of fight that took place two weeks ago. He only got up when it was time to have dinner. He walked into kitchen to see whether dinner was prepared. Usually Jasmine prepared dinner by this time. There was only empty vessels. He quickly prepared some pasta and walked towards her room. He knocked at the door. There was no response. He knocked again. "What?", she asked loudly. He was surprised by her tone. But then realized that it was same old drama. He didn't want to get into one more argument. "Do you need something to eat?", he asked casually. "No!", she replied back. He didn't try to force her to have dinner. He left her alone, unaware to the fact that she had lost a battle at work.


(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 34

"You are overreacting too much.", he said. She could sense the panic in his voice. "I am not overreacting. I was just suggesting you about marriage. It looks like you are panicking at word of marriage.", she said with anger boiling inside her. She pushed him aside and got up from her bed. She stood with her hands folded and her back towards him.

He hit his head with his fist. Now he had to pacify her again. " How should I cool her down? If I say something, she will again take it in wrong way.", he wondered. "You guys are all the same. You say you love me. But when I asked you to hold my hand, you are shying away.", she said. He got up and stood behind her. He turned her toward him and stared down at her gloomy eyes.


"You don't look good when you sulk.", he said softly. She glared at him. "Your sweet words won't melt me now.", she said firmly. "I am always there for you. But marriage is something I haven't thought about.", he argued gently. "Why? Don't you want to marry me?", she asked. "Yes, I do! Maybe some day I will. But not now.", he said.

She walked out of the room. He followed her. Finally he grabbed her hand and pulled her towards him. "What happened to you? Why are you behaving like this?", he asked. "You know why.", she said sulkingly. He released her hand. "I am tired of this drama. I need fresh air.", he said. He banged the door while he walked out.

She didn't stop him. She was hurt. He walked aimlessly outside. His mind was absorbed into the fight. He wasn't against the thought of marriage. He wanted to marry her. But not like this. He wanted both families involved in their marriage. He didn't want to marry to prove to world. He wanted to marry her only because he loved her.

He came home. He found her engrossed in her phone. He tried to speak to her. She didn't speak. He left her to herself and got busy with his work. This followed for few days. No one spoke. They were held by their egos and misconceptions. Their love for each other was hidden by their pride.


(To  be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No # 2 - Part 33

Zain held Tai's hand as he helped her get inside her flat while Jasmine walked alone to her flat. She was unhappy. She wanted to spend quality time with Zain and thought dismissively, "Tai had to ruin it all. I was thinking...". Something struck her. Her thoughts slowly diverted to "was Tai spying on us?" . There was doubt of her following them. She was aware Tai knew they were couple and not siblings. Slowly she realized,"Maybe she wanted to catch us red handed." She spoke aloud without realizing that Zain was behind her,"We should be more vigilant."

  

"Why should be more vigilant?", asked confused Zain. He closed the door and made sure it was locked twice. He turned towards her with his hands on his hip. "Why should we be more vigilant?", he asked again. "We should be more vigilant because Tai is spying on us.", she replied like excited kid who had solved a complex problem. "Why will she be spying on us?", he asked. Jasmine was getting annoyed with his slow realization. "Why are you acting dumb? You know she knows we are a couple. She wanted to catch us red handed there.", she quipped. 

He banged his head with his fist. "Come on Jasmine! You are acting like that suspicious daughter in laws from typical Indian TV series. She must've had some work there. That's why she was there.", he said. "Oh Please! What work will she have in empty street with shops and restaurants closed. Don't tell me she also wanted to visit the same restaurant we had decided to go. Unfortunately it was closed and she didn't know just like us.", she said sarcastically.

"Even if she wanted to catch us red handed, what can we do? She can catch us now also. She could have caught us when she slipped in middle of road. Or she could have caught us on day she got to know. Why would she wait? Maybe she doesn't want to leave us because she is getting rent from us.", he protested. She stomped towards the room. "There she goes again. Why do I have to tolerate this daily?", he whispered to himself. He quickly followed her. She had not locked the door this time. He opened the door and found her sitting on the bed.

Her eyes were moist. He sat close to her. He put his hand on her shoulder and dragged her close to his chest. She immediately cried. "Why don't you understand? It's better we leave now. We can't take chances. What if she informs police about us or inform our parents about us? We will be doomed. I can't stay without you. I don't want us to part ways.", she sobbed. 

He tightened his grip on her shoulder and said, "Don't worry. Give me few days. We will find some place to stay and then we will leave. If she informs the police or our parents, we may be doomed but I won't leave your side. We will face this together." She wiped her tears and spoke, "Why don't we get married? No one will raise fingers on us. Our families may be disappointed but they will accept us." His grip loosen over her. He became nervous. He had not thought about marriage. It was too early to take that step in their relationship. He was sure he didn't want to leave her but marriage was too much for him to give in their relationship.

(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 32

The auto rickshaw driver stopped near the location his client had asked him to drop them. Zain looked out. There was no restaurant. He panicked. He said,"Bhaiya, I don't think this is location I asked you to drop us.". The driver was irritated. "Sir, This is the location you asked for. I dropped you at the right location.", he said.

Jasmine watched the argument with slight annoyance. She had great expectation with this date. Everything was turning into a mess. She quickly opened the google map app on her phone and checked the location. The location was right but there was no sign of the restaurant.She checked again and this time she saw the closed keyword below the name of restaurant. Her face turned red.

She caught hold of Zain's arm in anger and showed her phone to him. Zain was shocked. He hadn't checked the restaurant before planning the date. This mistake costed him badly. He smiled weakly at her. She got down quickly while heading straight , not knowing where to go. He said sorry to the driver before following her.

Usha Tai watched the commotion from the far. She had asked the auto driver to stop little far. She didn't know what was going on inside the auto and why they had stopped at place where there were no people around. The driver was asking her repeatedly whether she would get down at this place. She was getting annoyed by his repeated intervention. Finally she got down when she saw her tenants getting down.

She followed them sneakingly. She didn't want them to know that she was following him. Zain got hold of Jasmine's hand and stopped her. She was miffed and turned her face away from Zain. "I am sorry. I should have checked the place. You can punish me however you want. But don't walk away like this.", he begged with folded hands. Her heart melted though she was still angry with him.

Tai hadn't seen small pothole on the road. She was engrossed in watching her tenants. She slipped her leg and fell on her head. She screamed in pain. Fortunately, nothing bad happened. She got small cut but her fall alerted them. They quickly turned back to see Tai on the ground. Zain rushed towards her and quickly helped Tai to stand on her feet. He asked her whether she was fine. Jasmine watched them with dismay. She wasn't happy with how the things turned out. It was supposed to be sweet romantic date to bring two lovers together but ended up like always causing more distance between them.


(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No # 2 - Part 31

Zain kept knocking the door constantly. His hand ached but he didn't stop. He didn't want her to sleep another night with heavy heart. "Please open the door,sweetheart. I am sorry.", he said. The knocks on her door became more louder. He jumped with pain when he banged his already paining hand on the door. She opened the door as soon as she heard him crying in pain. 

She took his injured hand and dragged him to kitchen. She took out some ice from freezer and rubbed it gently on his hand. He winced in pain. The pain slowly subdued. "Sorry !", she said softly. "I am sorry !  I was too harsh on you. You were right for being mad on me.", he said. "But I should have listened to you first before making up some conclusion. You were right. I overreact most times and I have been very hard on you.", she said as she hugged him tight.

He held her for very long time. He didn't want to let her go. The love that was fading due to pressures from life and work was slowly brightening. Finally they released each other and stared into each other. Their relationships was sailing up and down. They hardly had seen any bright days filled with love. They had heard stories from their friends who were in live in. They never faced such struggles during first few days. 

It was weekend tomorrow. An idea struck him. He had been spending quite lot of time at home during weekend. He decided to spend some quality time with Jasmine to rekindle their relationships. "What are you doing tomorrow? ", he asked. "Nothing as usual !", she replied. "How about I take you on date to this new restaurant I had come across last week?", he asked excitedly. She smiled and agreed.

Next day arrived. She was more excited than him to go on date. It had been long time that they had gone on romantic date. Today is the day she could spend good time with him. They had very tough time and this was much needed break from those rough days. She looked gorgeous in floral white dress and matching sandals. She had left her hair open. Her face glowed with happiness. Her eyes shine with love and excitement.

He wore casual T shirt of same color that matched her dress and jeans. His heart beat faster when he saw her. "You look pretty", he said as he blushed. He held her hand as they left their apartment oblivious to the fact that Tai was watching them. As soon as she saw them leaving, she quickly combed her hair and rushed behind them. She made sure that they didn't see her. She took the next auto after they boarding first auto to the location they had decided to go.

(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 30

He was sulking whole day. His mind was not focused on the work. He was thinking about injustice he was facing from Jasmine's hand. He got back early because he was not in mood to work. He postponed some meetings he had with client and he asked his friends to take over for some meetings which he couldn't postpone. 

He lay lazily on the sofa,staring blankly at the ceiling. After few hours, he got distracted by sound of someone opening the lock of the door. He turned back to look. It was Jasmine. He didn't greet her with his usual smile or joke. Instead he walked to his room and closed the door. Jasmine realized the strangeness in his behaviour. She presumed he was angry that she didn't pick the call. 

She headed towards her room to cheer him up. She knew she was wrong in not speaking to him. It was first time she was going to make him feel better. It was first time she was going to ask him for forgiveness. She crossed her fingers while entering the room. He took out his laptop and pretended as if he was working on it when he saw her coming towards him. She sat down next to his bed. She placed her folded arms next to his legs. He tried many times to push her arms away. But failed and eventually he let her place her arms next to his legs.

"I am sorry. I should have picked your call.", she said softly. He didn't say anything. He was seething with anger. "Please say something ! I am sorry.", she purred. "What should I say ? Only you can say things to me and blame me for all the mistakes which I have not done. If I say one word, you overreact and don't pick my calls. What should I do when you say things that hurt me? How would you feel when you are made to look like fool in front of my friends?" , he spoke angrily.

Each word he spoke stung her like needle. She didn't expect him to react like that. She got up in anger. Her eyes had turned red. She was breathing deeply like raging bull. "Fine ! I overreacted. I should have picked your call. I was scared. I was scared that if Tai found out who my parents were, called them and told them where I was, how they would react?  I have put in lot of efforts to convince them to let me come to Mumbai to pursue my dream. If they found out I am living in with my boyfriend, they will kill me.", she said before breaking down into tears. 

Zain's anger didn't melt. Instead it got more nastier. He spoke,"It's always about you. You should have thought about that before getting into relationship with me." She was heartbroken by his words. She had left her morals and inhibitions of societal judgements to stay with him and here he was accusing her for being selfish. She spoke one last time before running towards her room, "I was genuinely sorry. I came here to seek forgiveness from you and make you feel better. Instead of accepting my sorry, you are blaming me for being selfish, overreacting and what not. Do hell with this sorry! I will never speak to you !" He banged his head with his fist. He felt guilty for reacting too much. He headed towards her room to calm her down.

(To be continued)

The Tenants from Flat No #2 - Part 29

Jasmine thought he was joking initially. But his expressions proved it to be something else. "Are you serious?", she asked. "Hmm.. I..Did you hear everything?", he stammered. Everything was going smoothly. She was smiling and now he regretted bringing the topic of Tai. Anyway he had to inform her. He knew he had to face her wrath some day.

There was silence for some time. No one spoke. Jasmine was disturbed. She was tired of series of miseries taking places one after another. "I am sorry.", he said softly as he put his hand on her shoulder. She nudged his hand off from her shoulder. She stomped towards her room and closed it. She didn't come out. He knocked the door several times. There was no answer. He sat down next to her room and slept there.The couple spent their first night without food. 

Morning arrived. He got up as soon as door opened. She was surprised to see him next to her door. "What are you doing here?", she asked. He rubbed his eyes. He had stiff neck. He was still sleepy. He yawned as he spoke,"I slept here the whole night, waiting for you to have dinner with me." She felt bad and hugged him. "You didn't have dinner for me. I am sorry. But I won't forgive you for what happened yesterday," He smiled and said,"Why? What did I do now? " 

She released herself from the embrace and said,"Come on ! You know what you did! I told you many times to be careful around her." He laughed as he spoke, "I was careful. It's not my mistake if she got to know. You might have been careless." Jasmine was taken aback by his statement. She glared at him with anger. She walked out of the house before banging the door loudly. Zain followed her immediately.  As she climbed down the stairs, he tried to calm her down. She ignored him.

Tai opened the door coincidentally when Jasmine reached down. "What happened", she asked. Jasmine and Zain stopped to greet her. "Why do you constantly fight with your brother? You are taking your brother for granted." , she said. This triggered more anger in the young girl. Jasmine barged outside. "These youngsters are always hot blooded nowadays. You can't have proper conversation.", Tai taunted. Zain ignored her comments and followed Jasmine. 

"Wait ! I need to speak to you.", he called her out. She didn't pay any heed to his calls. She got into an auto and headed towards work. He tried calling her on her phone. She didn't pick up. She put her phone on silent. He didn't stop calling. He called her when he was getting ready for work. He called her when he was at work. He also called her on her friend's phone. But she didn't respond. He was angry. He didn't understand why he was getting punished for something he had not done.

(To be continued)

The Tenants from Flat No #2 - Part 28

Jasmine's day wasn't as smooth as she thought it would be. She had tried all her best to catch Shwetha's attention. She wasn't aware of jealousy brewing in Shwetha's heart. She assumed that she was happy with her work. She felt there was chance for her to be in her dream team. Unfortunately Shweta was ignoring her on purpose. Jasmine thought her boss was busy. She was blinded by admiration towards her boss to see the real picture.


All her efforts gone down in flames. She was disappointed and expressed the same to Tina. Tina consoled her, "Why do you worry? She knows you are working hard and she is impressed. I know you will be in her dream team." Jasmine sighed. When she got back home, she opened her laptop to watch some videos. She was trying to clear her mind. Her mind would go back to how her day was and how better she could have done.

Suddenly the bell rang. She lazily walked towards the door to open it. She presumed it was Tai and disinterestedly opened the door. It wasn't Tai. She was surprised to see Zain outside. "I didn't expect you to come early.",she said. "Oh! Why? You thought it was Tai?", he joked. She got irritated and stomped inside.

He smiled as he entered. But his mind was working on ways he was going to convey the message. He was sure that there would be fireworks. Now he had analysed the intensity of the fireworks. It was going to burn the whole place.

He took deep breath. "I didn't cook anything. It will take me few minutes. Is it okay?", she said solemnly. He understood her mood wasn't good due to work pressure. He had to deal with this issue lightly. "No problem. But I have one condition", he said smilingly. "What?", she asked. "We will cook together.", he replied.

She smiled. "Why not!", she said while heading towards the room. He freshened up and wore casual pyjama and plain flue t-shirt. He found her already chopping the veggies. "What are we making?", he asked. "Mix veg curry and roti. You make the rotis.", she said. He agreed and started making the dough. While cooking, they chatted about various things from family, friends to work and Tai's weird ways. Amidst the light conversation, he blurted out the truth. Jasmine stopped everything and stared at him in shock.  Zain covered his mouth with his hand as he never wanted to spill the beans out like this.

(To be continued)

The Tenants from Flat No #2 - Part 27

Zain shivered when he learnt that his landlady knew the truth. What was he going to do now? Thinking about Jasmine's reaction on this news made him tremble in fear. She would surely break up with him. "Mahesh Bhai, What will we do now?", he asked helplessly.

Mahesh smiled. He wanted that reaction. Now he could use their helplessness for his benefit. He imagined about how much money he was going to encash from their helplessness. "I have an idea. It's better to find new place to stay before Tai gets hold of you. You will saved from all the drama before she calls you a liar in front of public.",Mahesh said. Zain sighed and spoke,"Thanks! But is there any way other than this?"


"I mean we again need to search places. It will be an headache for all of us. It may take long time. We don't how our next owner would be. What if Tai throws us before we find a place to stay? What if she does it today?", he continued while thinking about the consequences of being thrown out of house. "Why are you thinking so much? She won't throw you today. She's planning to catch you red handed once you commit next mistake. She waiting for you to be off guard.", Mahesh tried to convince him.

The young man didn't seem to be convinced by his agent's words. He felt strange that he knew so much about his landlady's moves. "Bhai, How do you know that she will not throw us outside today?", he asked. Mahesh was getting agitated by Zain's questions. "Why is he asking so many questions? Why does he want to know so much?", Mahesh thought. He didn't want to reveal the truth. But he had to in order to get Zain convinced.

"I know this because she called me today to her place. She told me that she got to know everything. She warned me that she will call police on me if I didn't help her to catch you red handed.", he spoke the truth. Zain found him suspicious. He was about to ask him about his intentions in helping them. But he held back. He had to find out the motive behind Mahesh's sudden concern.

"Hmm I see! When shall we start looking out for the place to stay?", Zain asked, trying to sound convinced. He wanted to find the truth. Mahesh fell for his lie. "Let's start as soon as possible. But I have something to inform you before we start looking.", Mahesh spoke excitedly. "What is it? Hope there is no more surprises", Zain asked. Mahesh laughed and said,"You need pay me some advance before we start looking." "Advance for what?", the young tenant asked. Mahesh didn't like to clarify every time. "Nothing much! You have to pay Rs 15000 only to get out of contract with Tai since you are leaving before completion of one month contract.", he said. Zain finally understood Mahesh's motive. "Bhai! I need to discuss this with Jasmine and I will come back to you as soon as we made our decision." , Zain said. Mahesh was frustrated with failure of his second plan. He thought he would use Zain's innocence to his benefit. But it backfired. He cut the call immediately.


(To be continued) 

The Tenants from Flat No #2 - Part 26

Mahesh thought deeply, "How will I get Tai to agree to my plans?" He smiled nervously at her. Tai looked at him suspiciously. She knew if she agreed to his plans , she would be like pawn in his hand. He would use her for his benefit. But what benefit would he get out of using her? " 

"Tai, you are right. We will do as you say. We will wait for them to make some mistakes and catch them red handed just the way you want. ", he said. She wasn't convinced. She knew there was some hidden agenda there. She wondered what was his hidden agenda.  She regretted asking him for help. She should have done this alone. Something struck her mind while she was thinking.

She didn't have to take him in. She would do her own thing. If Mahesh acted smart, she would blackmail in name of 'police'. She had found out his weakness - he hated being called thief. She wouldn't let him know anything she did. She would do it discreetly.

"Mahesh, you go home. I will come up with a plan and let you know.", she said smoothly. He became worried. "Now what is she up to?", he wondered. He had to keep an eye over her. He didn't trust her. He thought she was simple woman. But he never thought she would think two steps ahead of him. He had to be cautious of her every move. 

As soon as he left the flat , he called Zain immediately. "Hi Zain!", he said. Zain was surprised by his call. He didn't expect Mahesh's call. "Hi Mahesh Bhai, how is everything?", he asked. "All is good. But I have bad news for you.", Mahesh said. Zain was confused. "Now what can possible go wrong?", he wondered. 

"Usha Tai knows our secret.", Mahesh said. The phone almost slipped from Zain's hand. He laughed nervously as he spoke, "What are you saying, Bhai? Are you playing a prank on us? It's not April Fool's day." Mahesh changed his tone to bit serious. "I am not joking, Zain. It's true. She knows our secret. ", he said.

(To be continued)

The Tenants from Flat No #2 - Part 25

"So what are you going to do with them? Do you have plan?", Mahesh asked. Tai stayed quiet. She got Mahesh now. But she hadn't thought ahead. She had no plan.  Mahesh understood she had no plan. Now he had upper hand over her. He knew what to do now. "Tai, I have a brilliant plan. If you allow me, I can reveal my plan to you.", he said.

Tai regretted not having concrete plan. She knew how Mahesh was. He is opportunist. She knew that he would now dominate her regarding the plan. He would have his way over her. She should have had plan ready. She decided to reject whatever he said.

"Tell me your plan.", she asked though she wasn't interested in any of his plans. "You snoop behind their backs. You can follow them secretly, find out their weakness and take pictures if needed. You can use these photos as evidence against them.", he said. She immediately rejected the idea. "I am not doing that. I can't stoop that low. I will wait for them to make some mistake and then I will catch them red handed.", she argued.

"Tai, it's difficult to catch them like that. Do you think they will stay extremely relaxed? Irrespective whether they are aware or unaware that you know their little secret, they will still be vigilant. It will be difficult to catch them like that.", he asserted his point. Tai smirked. "This guy is very difficult person. He will not refuse a 'no'.", she wondered. She had to find a way to let him know that she was the boss.

"Every thief thinks they are vigilant. But they always commit silly mistakes and they get caught. They did that. But I let them off. Now they will become more relaxed and they will commit mistakes which will lead me to them. You were easy catch for me.", she said confidently.

Mahesh looked down withe embarrassment. He hadn't known that it was difficult to influence her. An idea struck him. He was going to let her use him as bait without letting her or her tenants know that he would be using their situation for his advantage. 

(To be continued)

The Tenants from Flat No #2 - Part 24

Tai had found her friend with twisted side for her mission. He was supposed to come in few minutes. "He is always late ! I need to make this clear with him- no delays.", Tai said with disappointment. She hated people who disrespected time. Finally the bell rang. Tai rushed to open the door. It was Mahesh. He smiled idiotically. She didn't smile back and impatiently gestured him to come in. 

Mahesh walked in. There was something fishy. Tai's urgent call in the morning to meet her at home raised doubts in his mind. "What can it be?", he wondered during the entire journey to Tai's apartment. Instead of normal greeting or asking about her well being , he jumped to his question, "You seemed to be tensed, Tai. Even during the calls, you seemed disturbed. Are tenants troubling you or not paying you the rent properly?". He wondered whether Tai learned about Zain and his girlfriend's truth. If she did, he was in trouble.

Usha Tai was quiet. She had to deal with this man carefully. He was twisted man. She knew he was the main culprit in bringing the liars as her tenants. She had to teach him a lesson. She was going to blackmail him to help her teach her tenants a lesson. "Everything is fine. Tenants are paying rent on time. They are following the rules properly. But!", she spoke in sarcastic tone. Mahesh began to sweat profusely. He kept using his handkerchief to wipe the drops of sweat on his face. His heart beat faster. His truth was out.

"Tai, then what is the problem.", he said nervously. "The problem! It may not be huge for you. You got your commission and spent royally on your family. I am bearing the brunt here.", she said scornfully. Mahesh kept quiet. He knew if he spoke anything in his defense, Tai would break him black and blue. " I know the truth. The boy and girl are couple and not siblings. They are not married too. They are living in together. That's what you youngsters call it, right?", she said furiously. Her anger was rising every minute.  

His lips began to quiver due to fear. He felt as if his time has come. He wanted to run away from Tai's rage. He stuck to sofa he was sitting. Tai's big eyes reminded him of his strict teacher of  his high school days. She would stare at him with big eyes whenever he was caught red handed by her while cheating in class test. "You know what I will do now. I will call the police and report you and the couple for cheating me. How about that ?", she said sadistically. 

The word police bought him to knees. He knelt down next to where Tai was sitting. He folded his hands and begged, "Please don't do that ! I will do anything you ask for. What will happen to my family if I get arrested? Who will look after them?". He began to weep. Tai nudged him to get up. "Ok! Ok! I won't call. But you have to help me teach them lesson. I want to make it worse enough for them to pack their bags and leave.", she said firmly. Mahesh agreed to help her out with her plan.

(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 23

Jasmine waited impatiently for him to reply. She sensed there was something he was hiding. Thinking about what he was hiding made her more angry. "Come on, say something.", she said impatiently. Zain shivered. He wasn't scared of her anger. He was scared of disappointing her. He looked at her. Her eyes gleamed in fury. He regretted appreciating Tai's sweet dish. He should have kept quiet and agreed with Jasmine. Now it was too late.

"Nothing.. strange happened when you left. The delivery guy fixed the cylinder and went. He thought you were my girlfriend and I told him you were my sister when he said he won't tell anyone that I was with my girlfriend.", he blurted out everything that happened in morning. She slapped her head out of anger. "You messed it up. First you forget to lock the door and instead of handling that guy, you messed it more. Who asked you to tell I am your sister? Who asked you to open your mouth? You should have stayed quiet." , she spilled out her anger on him.

He held her tight to calm her down. She was fighting his grip on her. "Calm down ! If you scream like that everyone will get to know.", he said calmly. She understood the situation and calmed down instantly. "I am sorry I shouldn't have opened my mouth. In that situation I didn't know what to do.", he said softly. She glared at him in anger. "What do you mean you didn't know what to do?", she asked angrily.

"Calm down! I did what I could. But.. look at brighter picture. Tai doesn't know about us. If she knew, wouldn't she throw us out of the house. Why would she act sweet?", he said. "You do make sense. But why would she act sweet all of sudden? There is something odd in her behaviour. She hates us. Why bother to act sweet?" , she said. He hugged her tight. "Why do you worry so much? Nothing will happen." , he consoled her.


"But we have to be careful. We cannot let our silly mistakes to get us in trouble. She is very smart. We need to make sure she doesn't catch our lie.", she said. Zain agreed , thanking Lord that everything was sorted. He was relieved that she had read his mind. He wanted her support now to make things look fine.

It was midnight. But Tai didn't get sleep. She was thinking of evening at her tenants. She regretted being too sweet. She felt she was opening herself too much. They had suspected her actions. She had to be careful now. She couldn't take any chances.

(To be continued) 

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 22

Jasmine sighed in relief. She wanted that for long time. She stared at Zain with gloomy eyes. Zain smiled at her. "Thank God! She went.", he said exhaling deeply. He got close to her and put his both hands on her shoulders. "What happened? Aren't you relieved that she went?", he asked calmly. She shifted her gaze from him to empty hot box and then back to him. "I was happy today. I wanted to treat you with your favorite snack. But Tai came and had her fill.", she said disappointingly. "She didn't even ask before snatching it.", she continued.

He noticed her cheeks had turned red. Her sweet voice made his heart beat faster. He suddenly felt immense love for her. He always found her childish antics cute. But today he found it more appealing. "Aww! How sweet of you? I am touched by your gesture.", he said as he squeezed her cheeks.  "Aren't you disappointed?", she asked.

"It's okay. She is an old lady. She liked your fries. She had them. I can have them next time. But she has bought us Puran Poli. Let's have them.", he said. She wasn't convinced. "But I prepared them for you with love.", she said softly. He held her hands and nudged them gently. "I understand you prepared them with love. Why should we fret over what has already happened?", he consoled her. She finally understood. They had first bite of sweet dish. It was tasty.

Jasmine had one while Zain finished rest. "Tai doesn't seem to be person who could make such tasty sweets. She is so bitter always.", he said. " I don't agree with you.", Jasmine argued. He stared at her in confusion. He thought he had convinced her about the fries incident. "She has been acting strange since this evening. She asked me about my day and even taunted me about my profession when I was going upstairs. I gave her back but she didn't reply. She banged the door on me and I got back home. The strange part was that she came back to flat few minutes after we had not so good chat. She was overly warm which didn't match her aura. She seemed different.", she continued.


"You are overthinking. She must be genuinely trying to build relationship with us. I didn't find her overly warm today.", he lied. He did find Tai's behaviour odd though. But he was convincing himself that nothing bad would happen and the gas delivery guy must have not mentioned  about them to her. He was trying to dodge the topic for another reason- he didn't want her to ask him about how he had managed with the guy today. The fear appeared again.

"I am not overthinking, Zain! You always blame for overthinking. What happened today shouldn't have happened. But it happened and now we are bearing the consequences. By the way, how did you manage today? Did that guy ask any questions? Did he try to blackmail us?", she asked firmly. Zain sweated profusely. He was speechless. He stared at her blankly as if trying to find answers in her.


(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No #2- Part 21

Zain smiled weakly at Tai. He wondered,"Why is she here? Does she know the truth? Are we going to be thrown out? Will she call the police on us? What if our families get to know about this? Jasmine won't bear this? What will happen to her? Will this be an end to our relationship?" His eyes turned red thinking about their relationship. "What happened to you? You seem quiet today. I think you are tired. Anyway I will take a leave. Jasmine, take care of your brother. Thanks for the fries.", Tai said.

He was relieved with Tai's words. She was not going to throw them out. He looked at Jasmine and smiled. Jasmine didn't understand the reason behind his smile. She was aggrieved by Tai's munching all the fries she made for Zain. "Tai, I am not that tired. I am feeling embarrassed that I intervened your girls party with Jasmine.", he joked. Jasmine found his humor to be bad taste. She wanted to kick him out badly. 

Tai didn't understand the subtle joke in Zain's language. "Ok then I will stay back. Jasmine, can you please make those fries?  I am craving for it.", Tai said shamelessly. Zain seemed like naive boy. She could get more information from him if she had candid chat with him. He didn't expect Tai to stay back. He had thought she had hated Jasmine. He smiled nervously , not knowing what to say. He looked at Jasmine. She was fuming.

He pleaded her with his eyes to fulfill Tai's request. She stomped and walked towards the kitchen. Tai knew she had angered her. But she kept quiet. "So how was your work today?", she asked as she tried to break the ice between them. He was surprised by her warm tone. There was something fishy about her. But he didn't try to think hard about it. He thought, "I must be overthinking. Maybe she is here to build good relationship with us."

The sounds of Jasmine angrily placing the utensils on the stove could be heard in hall. Tai smiled by not reacting. Zain smiled back nervously. He awkwardly brushed his hair back with his hand. "How am I going to handle her outburst today? She is going to murder me if I tell her about today's event.", he wondered.

Tai felt it was getting over the board. Jasmine was angry. Tai felt if she stayed longer or spoke something that offended Jasmine, she would not fulfill her goal. She had to find other ways to fulfill her purpose. "I remembered I had some work. I will go. I will come some other time.", she said with smile as she got up to leave. Zain didn't persuade her to stay. He didn't want to add more fire to Jasmine's anger.

(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 20

Jasmine entered her room with smile. She was happy today. Everything was going good now. She impressed her boss and also gave back to her landlord when she was taunting about her profession. She wished everything would run smoothly in future. She thought about Zain. She wanted to treat him well today. She looked at her watch. He was going to come home in one hour.

She changed into her home clothes. She rushed towards kitchen. She looked at the utensils kept on the rack. "What does he like?", she wondered. She smiled when an idea struck her. She immediately started to prepare cabbage fries. It was his favorite dish. She was sure he would enjoy it. She smiled as she started to fry the cabbage in large wok.


The smell of delicious fries had spread across the whole house. The door bell rang. She got excited to see Zain's expression. She ran to open the door. To her dismay, it was Usha Tai. She had bought six Puran Poli in a steel plate. She smiled at her , waiting for her to let her inside. "Tai, do you need something?", Jasmine asked dishearteningly. "No, why would I need something? Instead I have bought something for you.", Tai said.


Jasmine wasn't happy with Tai being here. She wanted her to leave soon. "Oh ! It's sweet of you.", she said dispiritedly. "I thought you are alone. So I bought some Puran Poli for you and we can have nice chit chat until your brother comes.", Tai said excitedly. Jasmine let her in as she had no other options. Tai was landlord and she didn't want to upset her in first week of stay.

"The house looks clean. I wasn't expecting from you. Youngsters nowadays don't keep the house clean.", Tai said as she looked around. The smell of cabbage fry caught her nose. She rushed towards the kitchen to find a heat box. She opened it due to intense craving.


She took few and had them. "Delicious!", she said. Jasmine was furious. She had made them specially for Zain and here Tai was having them as if she hadn't eaten for days. She wanted to snatch the box from her but she couldn't. Suddenly bell rang. Jasmine opened the door. It was Zain outside. He looked anxious and tired. "I am sorry. I won't do it again.", he said as he followed Jasmine inside. Tai came out of kitchen with hand full of fries. "What did you do?", she asked with smile. Zain was startled to see her here. His face became white with fear and his heart beat faster.


(To be continued)

The Tenants From Flat No #2 - Part 19

Jasmine was over the moon. She had finally made good impression on her boss. But she wasn't aware that her boss was jealous of her and not happy with her work. She hugged Tina for saving her twice. Tina smiled. She was happy for her friend. "I am proud of you, girl. But what happened to you today? You looked out of focus today.", she asked.

Jasmine went back again to morning events. She felt uneasy thinking about it. "Don't ask about it. Zain messed it again.", she said. Tina laughed. "What did he do now?", she asked. "We almost go caught by gas cylinder guy. I don't know whether he managed the situation or put the cart before the horse. I am tensed.", Jasmine said.

Zain couldn't wait to meet Jasmine. He was worried about the gas cylinder guy. He wished he didn't spill the beans to Usha  Tai. Whenever his phone rang, he would jump from his seat. He would relax whenever he saw the name of the caller. He was anxious what Tai would say. He dreaded on thought of going home and witnessing Usha Tai with broom in her hand, waiting for them at the doorstep. 

He didn't mind facing the wrath of Jasmine but he didn't want to witness Usha Tai's fury. With their secret out, he feared Tai would have upper hand over them. He trembled thinking of ways she would torture them. He wished he had not got influenced by words of Mahesh. He wished he could change what had happened in morning. He wished he had remembered to look the door. 

Jasmine got home early. While she was about to head upstairs, Tai opened the door. She smiled. Jasmine smiled back wondering whether she got to know about them. "How was your day? Did you cut any hair today?", Usha Tai asked. Jasmine cringed with hatred. How much she hated when someone mocked her profession. "No Tai. In fact I had styled an actress's hair. She is having red carpet day next week.", she replied.

Usha Tai giggled. "Oh I see. You style people's hair one week before the event? Does the hair stay that way whole day? Oh! I think these actress don't take bath for a week.", she joked. Tai's useless conversation was getting on her nerve. "You also don't take bath before any special occasion?", Jasmine mocked. Tai expression turned sour. "I was joking, Tai. The actress came for design selection. She selected my design and hence we will be styling her hair with my design for movie premiere.", she said. Tai made a face and went inside. "I have to be careful with this girl. She is cunning.", she thought.

(To be continued)

The Tenants from Flat No #2 - Part 18

Jasmine wasn't really focused on work. She was thinking constantly about the morning events. It was perfect one moment and next moment it was all mess. She wondered whether Zain took control of the issue or whether he make mess of it. She knew Zain's carelessness. He could destroy a controlled situation with his antics.

Tina watched her friend's depressed face. But she didn't inquire due to busy schedule. While she was working on one of her client, she saw her friend almost jeopardize her client's hairstyle if she hadn't stopped her in time. She would have cut the hair shorter than what client expected it to be. Jasmine smiled at her for saving her. 

This was not all. A horror was going to taking place that could ruin Jasmine's career. Shweta was showing different hairstyle to very important client who was looking for unique hairstyle for her film premiere.  The client asked her to show a sample and Shweta obliged. Jasmine was on her break when Shweta asked her to get some clips and accessories. 

As usual Jasmine was in her own world. She bought comb and scissors instead. However Tina arrived on time to save her. "What are you doing? She has asked you to get clips and accessories, not this.", she reprimanded her. Jasmine was startled. She grabbed the right stuffs and offered it to Shweta. As Shweta accessorized her client's hairstyle, Jasmine looked. The client didn't seem to be happy.

 Jasmine asked her boss if she could help. Shweta was skeptical. "Jasmine, it's her premiere night. I can't let you assist me unless I have checked your work. I haven't yet inspected your work. It's not your day.", she said. Jasmine begged to let her show her work today. While Shweta was declining her request, the client interrupted, "Let her show her work! Even you reached where you are because someone gave you an opportunity. Give her the opportunity. If her idea looks great, then we will see. She's not going to cut my hair and the premier night is a week later.

Shweta complied to her client's request. She gestured her to do her work. Before starting out, she asked her about her dress. The client showed the pic of her dress. It was an elegant floor length black gown. It had sequence work on chest area. It looked perfect.  Since it was tube dress. She found the perfect hairstyle that could suit the dress. She combed her hair and sprayed little of hair spray on the top to make perfect puff. Later she used the hot buns to make a Cinderella hairstyle.  It looked pretty. 

"This is too..", Shweta was about to make some nasty comment when she saw the client seemed happy with the hairstyle. She changed what she was going to say. "This is pretty ! Good Job, Jasmine!", she said with bright smile. Jasmine felt overwhelmed with happiness. 

(To be continued)

The Tenants from Flat No #2 - Part 17

The secret was out. She had to deal with this situation carefully. "Kaki, if you allow me, I can suggest you that you catch them red handed outside or somewhere no one from this building recognizes you or the new tenants.", Ravi spoke. She rejected his idea and said, "No, Ravi ! I don't want any drama outside. In these scenarios, you will always meet someone you know. I don't want to do that."

Ravi wondered how he could assist his aunt. He loved finding solution to other people's problems which his wife hated him for. This was a complex problem and there has not been a day when he had not found solution for any problems. He would find one solution and think how Tai would react to those solutions. He had rejected almost all solutions based on how Tai would react on them. 

Finally he found one. He smiled as he spoke, "Kaki, you will like this idea definitely. Why don't you confront them privately?  Threaten them that you will call the police and I am sure they will get scared. They will leave the house without even causing any noise." Usha Tai thought, "It wasn't bad idea. They will surely leave the place if I threaten them. When they leave, the same issue of finding tenants will start. Again I have to catch hold of Mahesh and I don't like him. He was the one who got these people. If I get tenants, they won't pay rent these fools are paying. How about I watch them and find a weakness in them? Then I can use that weakness and teach them a lesson."

She rejected his idea but decided not to share her idea. She knew Ravi. He was simpleton man who wouldn't like this idea. He would make her feel guilty and she would have to quit teaching a lesson to them. "Tai, so what will you do now?", he inquired. She looked at him for few minutes and replied, "I will handle them by myself. If I need your help, I will let you know. Anyway , do you need one more Puran Poli?" 

He found it odd. He knew she was hiding something. He respected her privacy and didn't want to divulge more on this topic. He knew she was hurt. He only wished she would allow him to help her. He declined to have any more of his favorite sweet and wished her goodbye before he left. Usha Tai was back in action. 

She had her plan laid out. But she didn't know how to start. She knew she couldn't execute this plan alone. She needed someone who was suave as well as cooperative to help her out. She couldn't take Ravi's help. He would be caught on first attempt only. Finally she found a person who could help her out . But it wasn't easy to get help from that person. She had to be as twisted as that person.

(To be continued)

The Tenants from Flat No #2 - Part 16

Ravi knocked the door. His favorite aunt opened it immediately. "Hi Ravi! How are you ? Come inside. I was thinking about you. I prepared your favorite sweet - Puran Poli.", she said with warm smile. He came inside. The house looked as usual- clean and polished except for the smell of freshly prepared Puran Poli that surrounded everywhere.

He sat near the dining table while she served the sweet to him. He devoured the sweet and forgot the reason he came here for. Later they had quick chat. Tai asked him about his family and  work. He replied that everyone were good and his work was going on very good note. That was when he realized the reason he came here for - the secret of Tai's tenants.

"Kaki, I have something to say" , he said suddenly shifting the topic from his family to new tenants. He was eagerly waiting to disclose the secret he saw today. Tai stared at him with curiosity. He shook his feet while he continued to speak, "Kaki,I saw.. something strange in Tenant's house. They are not actually who they pretend to be. They are lovers. They are not siblings." Tai was confused.

"Why do you say that ? What did you see there ? What happened?", she asked like eager child. "The door was open. I didn't realize that. As I opened the door without thinking, I saw them holding each other like lovers. They were almost about to kiss if I hadn't raised my voice.", he said. "Are you sure?  You weren't dreaming right?", she asked.

"No Kaki ! God Promise! You tell me who will hold their sister like as if they are going to kiss.", he asked. She thought deeply. He made sense. He never lied. He always thought good about her. Unlike her children, he always inquired about her well being. He would help her even if she called him during midnight. She believed him.

But she had no idea what to do now. She wanted to throw them out now. But if she did, she would be known as gullible by everyone. She didn't want that. She had to deal this situation carefully. She thought deeply while Ravi tried to decode what she was thinking.

(To be continued)

 

The Tenants from Flat No #2 - Part 15

It took about few minutes to fix gas cylinder. Zain was in his own world. He was searching ways in his head to cool his girlfriend's anger. Ravi got up triumphantly. "At last your cylinder is fixed. If you have any issue, just call me. I will be at your service. You can check the stove.", he said excitedly. All his customers liked his spirit, knowledge of handling issues related to gas cylinders and his ever ready attitude. Unfortunately due to shortage of staff, he would deliver the cylinders personally. In turn t

He waited for Zain to say something or check the stove. The young man was simply staring into emptiness. He seemed lost. "Sir! You look lost.", Ravi said. There was no response from Zain. Ravi assumed that his barging inside the house and catching the tenant with a girl must have gone wrong. He realized his error. He didn't want to lose a customer or witness Usha Tai's fury.

"I am sorry for barging in like that. I didn't mean too. I didn't expect the door to be open.", he said. Zain came back to reality. He wanted to screw Ravi for spoiling their perfect moment and now he had to cool Jasmine's temper. He stared at him with anger boiling inside him. He cooled his mind and replied with tinge of mockery, "Do you always enter people's house without ringing the bell or knocking the door?" He smiled to cover his anger.

Ravi was flustered. He was out of words for a moment. Later he replied, "Bhai, I said I am sorry. I didn't mean to. Anyway, I won't tell Kaki or anyone about your fling with your girlfriend." He lied partly. He would have informed Kaki about this. But he had to cool the situation and not lose the money he would receive for his service.

Zain was worried. He didn't believe Ravi.  He was sure he would tell Usha Tai. He blurted out with no thought, "Dude, mind your business. She is  not my girlfriend. She is my sister."  Ravi stared at him suspiciously. "Sister ! I am sorry. My bad!", he said. He knew if he tried to get more information from him , he would attack him. He kept quiet. He received money and he headed towards Usha Tai's house.

He wondered how can anyone hold their sister the way they hold their wives or lover. He was burning with this doubt. He had to share this to Usha Tai. She had to know what their tenants are up to. Zain banged his head with his fist. He had messed it up. Now he had to deal with Jasmine and Usha Tai. He had to come up with a story that Tai would believe it instantly. For this he needed Jasmine's help which seemed like distant dream right now.

(To be continued)

The Tenants from Flat no #2 - Part 14

Jasmine woke up to sunny morning. She stretched lazily.  She scanned around. She was in her room on her bed. She smiled at the realization. She knew how he had carried her towards her room. What amazed her was that he didn't take undue advantage of the situation. This made her fall head over heels for him.

Later she checked her phone. There was still time. She didn't want to go to work. Even one day off costed her too much. She got up sulkingly. She lazily headed towards the bathroom. She freshened up after few minutes of sleep. She sluggishly took bath and got ready for work. She checked her phone one last time before heading to Zain's room. There was still more time for the terror to arrive.

Before she could open the door, the door opened. She almost fell in his arms. She blushed. Her cheeks turned pink. Her gaze was downward on the floors. He didn't shy while holding her hand and dragging her close to him. She didn't resist. She wanted to stay in his embrace for infinity. "I wish you had no work today. Do you really have to go?", he said huskily.

Her heart raced faster. But before she could say something, the door opened suddenly. They froze at sight of stranger staring at them suspiciously. They broke out from their embrace. "Oh.. Hmm.. I am sorry. The door was open. I came in.", the stranger said. He was short built and was wheatish complexion. He wore orange t shirt that had logo of company he worked. 

Jasmine stared angrily at Zain when he looked at her with guilt. "How can someone be so irresponsible?", she thought. Zain automatically realized what she said.  He smiled at her weakly. "I am Ravi. The gas agency guy. I got you the cylinder.", the stranger said. The couple suddenly remembered about Usha Tai's conversation yesterday. They gestured him to come in. Jasmine hurriedly went out while Zain showed Ravi the kitchen.


As Ravi fixed the cylinder, he glanced at Zain momentarily. "Usha Kaki(Aunt) told me that she had rented the flat to brother-sister duo. Who is this girl then? Where is his sister?", he wondered. While checking on Ravi, Zain received a message from Jasmine. It read," How can you keep the door open?I am not going to forgive you for this." Thinking of tonight's ordeal he was going to receive from his girlfriend terrified him. He wondered how he was going to cool her down.


(To be continued)

The Tenants from Flat no #2- Part 13

As soon as Zain closed the door, the argument brewed between them. "I told you she would get to know.", Jasmine argued. "She didn't get to know. You heard that. She didn't hear anything, darling. You are thinking too much.", he asserted on his stand. "I am thinking too much? You don't know what could have happened?  She would have killed us if she got to know. I don't know whether she heard our conversation or not.", she protested.

He couldn't take it any longer. Her reasons were based on her fear. She was getting worried over nothing. He walked closer to her and hugged her. She resisted it. "Relax! I know you had a bad day. She doesn't know. She said she didn't hear. Even if she heard and throws us away, I won't leave you alone. I will always be your side. Why worry today about what will happen tomorrow?", he whispered.

His warm hug melted her heart. She wanted to stay in his embrace forever. All her worries vanished. She felt secure. She was convinced that nothing wrong would happen when he was there. She believed his words. She was worrying too much and for those things that didn't take place. "You are right. But what about dinner? Aren't you hungry", she said with smile.

He quickly ordered something. They settled for something vegetarian this time. The night went smoothly. "I am tired of eating out. Hopefully we will get to make something from tomorrow.", she complained. "It's been two days, babe. You are bored with outside food?  I have heard girls love to be pampered with outside food.", he joked. She frowned but smiled. "Not all girls are the same." she said.

They watched a movie after dinner. It was too boring. Jasmine slept during the first half of the movie. He stared at her innocent face. He fell in love with her all over again. He bent down to kiss her forehead but stopped in middle when she moved a little. He learnt something new about her. She was light sleeper and one could melt her temper with just one hug.  He smiled at this realization.


Suddenly he carried her gently towards her room. She did wake up. She did feel someone carrying her but she was too tired for the day to realize what was happening. He tucked her in her blanket. Before switching off the light, he stared at one last time. His eyes were filled with love and care. He headed towards his room after switching off light.


(To be continued)

The Tenants from Flat no #2 - Part 12

She was upset again. She curled her lips in disgust. She already had a tough day and didn't want one more headache for the day. With her both fists clenched tight, she spoke angrily, "I told you! What part of discreetly you don't understand?" Zain covered his face with his hand. He started gently rubbed his face while he thought deeply. He didn't like her upset. He wondered how he could make her feel better.

Meanwhile Usha Tai was searching for number of gas agency. She searched everywhere.  She checked the She checked every drawers and cabinets in her house. It wasn't there. She flipped the newspaper and magazines. It wasn't there either. She checked the boxes and jars in kitchen. It wasn't there. While she opened the fridge to quench her thirst, she thought she saw something. She closed the door and found a sticker that contained the number.

She remembered Ravi , the gas agency owner sticking it on the fridge. He was her son's best friend during childhood. He was like her son. He helped her with any task she asked. After trying his hand in all kinds of business, he found his true calling in setting up a gas cylinder agency. "I should have called him directly. How could I forget him?", she thought. She called him. After short chat, she asked him to deliver a cylinder next day.

Later she climbed the stairs to her tenant's flat. The climb was like Mount Everest summit to her. Her leg ached with every step she took. She sighed when she reached. But a female voice startled her. She thought it was from other flat.When she got close to her tenant's flat, she was shocked. She could hear Jasmine screaming in top of her voice and Zain was cooling her down. She didn't understand why they were fighting.

She tried to put her ear on the door to listen carefully. Suddenly the door opened. She almost tripped over Zain. The couple looked at her with astonishment. They feared whether their secret was out now. She smiled weakly, fearing of giving opportunity to them to taunt on her for snooping over their personal space. They smiled back pretending as if nothing happened few minutes ago.

"I .. I got the phone number of gas agency.", Tai said hesitatingly. Zain took the slip she gave. He wondered whether she had heard anything. To confirm this, he said, "Sorry for the loud voice. We were arguing on very petty issue. You know how siblings are." Tai was relived that they weren't offended. She replied, "Voice was loud. I thought something happened. Anyway, I didn't hear anything. I have called them to come tomorrow morning at 9 am. Next time onward, you book the gas. Don't bother me." Everyone were relieved. Their secret was not out. But they had to make sure that they didn't commit this blunder again.

(To be continued)

The Tenants from Flat no #2- Part 11

Zain was relieved nothing happened. He thought she had seen him throwing the paper box into garbage. He was happy that nothing such happened. He was not as scared then as he was now. He was daredevil in his childhood. He was always into some mischief. He didn't mind getting caught and beaten by his dad. But now fear of getting thrown out of house for small silly mistake would cost him lot. He would lose his girlfriend and his family wouldn't trust him.

Jasmine reached. But she was right behind Shweta. Shweta was engrossed into her phone and was planning what to say in her briefing with her employees. She immediately bent down before Shweta could turn and catch her. Other employees watched Jasmine crawl down and sneak towards her usual place next to Tina. They were nervous as they gave her way . Shweta shifted her gaze from her phone towards her employees. Their nervous expression looked suspicious. Jasmine got up to stand. "That was awesome.", Tina whispered.

"What happened?", Shwetha asked her staff. They nodded saying nothing. Shweta continued to brief them about the new products they were going to use and different hairstyle they were going to innovate. She ended the discussion by talking about the film festival she was going where she would take three of her best staff. "So in this three months, I will check on your work and if I am happy with your work, three of you will come with me to this event where we would styling none other than Ranveer Singh.", she spoke excitedly. Everyone cheered.

"Ok! Now disperse. Let's get back to work.", Shweta said. Jasmine was in her own world. She wanted this opportunity. If she wins it, she could show everyone her worth and no one would ever make fun of her profession. She was already planning her course of action to impress her boss. There weren't much clients today. Many of them only wanted her to either wash their hair or color their hair. She wasn't impressed with her day.

Zain's day was normal. The work load was not much. The project he was handling had six month deadline. There was still more time for completion. He lazily sat on his chair, staring at his laptop. He was still thinking about the morning. That was a close escape from Tai's eyes. He constantly thought about the consequences. He didn't hear his friend calling out his name. "Zain! Dude! What happened about the protocol?", his friend asked. Only when he nudged him, he came back to reality. "What?", Zain asked in confusion. "The protocol?", his friend asked. "Working on it.", he replied. His friend wasn't convinced. "What happened, dude? You looked lost.", his friend asked. "Nothing !", he replied. "New place. I didn't get enough sleep.", he replied. His friend teased, "I understand. New place !" Zain smiled as he got back to work.

He got back home and saw sulky Jasmine lying in the sofa. She was staring into her phone. He knelt down next to her. He gently brushed her hair and asked, "What happened" "My day wasn't good. Shweta is taking top three people with her to assist her in styling Ranveer Singh for upcoming film festival. She will decide those three people based on how they impress her with their work in these three months. I didn't get anything interesting to show her.", she replied sulkily. He smiled and said,"It's just first day. You have still three more months. I know you can do it." She smiled as she got up and hugged him. Suddenly she remembered, "Did you throw that paper box?" "Yes I did! I threw it in the garbage outside the building", he said. "Shit! Why did you do that? I told you to throw it discreetly", she said , raising her tone. She immediately released herself from the hug. Her expression again turned into sulky one.

(To be continued)



s

The Tenants from Flat no #2 - Part 10

Morning arrived as usual. It was warm weather outside. Jasmine was ready for work. She rushed to Zain's room. The door was open. She saw him sleeping on his back and his legs were stretched out of the bed. The bed was too small for him. She felt sorry for his state. She gently knocked on the door. He didn't hear. She knocked again. He didn't hear again. He was sound asleep. 

She looked at her watch. It was already past nine and she was late. She called his name. He didn't respond. She was getting irritated. She thought about Shweta Dave - her boss. Shweta was known for her fiery tongue. She had already got twice warning from her for being late. She was not a easy boss whom you could fool. She had to get before her. Her phone vibrated due to message notification. She jolted for a minute thinking it was Shweta. It was her friend Tina. She asked her whether she left. She quickly messaged her back yes. 

She rushed towards him. She bent down to nudge him. Before she could do anything, he pulled her close to him. Their face were almost close. She blushed slightly. Her phone vibrated again which pulled her back to reality. "I have to go. I am late.", she said as she tried to release herself from his hold. He smiled. " I won't. I will hold you like this whole day.", he teased her. "Please Zain, you know how Shweta is. I need to get there soon before her.", she argued. 

He released her. "Fine, I leave you today. But not tonight.", he joked. She rushed towards the main door not before turning back to tell him, " Ha ha very funny. Before you leave for work, can you throw that paper box ? Usha Tai will come to know. Throw it discreetly." He nodded. There was small bang of main door confirming she had left. 

Zain woke up lazily. He stretched his hands and legs. He freshened himself and tiptoed downstairs with white cover containing the paper box. He found a large garbage bin which was brown coloured barrel outside the building. There was no one outside.  He threw it after making sure no one was looking. He rushed inside and was almost about to climb the stairs when he heard Tai calling his name. He froze.

"How was your stay yesterday? Everything was good? ", she asked. He was relieved. He turned back to her and said, "It was great, Tai. But the gas cylinder is empty. If you can help us get one cylinder.", he said. Tai stared at him as if he had asked her one of her kidneys. "Ok! I will get you one this time as per our terms and conditions. But next time you get it.", she said sternly. He nodded his head and rushed towards his flat. He sighed as soon as he closed the door.

(To be continued)

The Tenant from Flat no #2 - Part 9

Usha Tai left . Jasmine closed the door only when she was sure she was not there. There was going to be war now with her boyfriend. It’s wasn’t first. They had many fights. But today wasn’t acceptable to Jasmine. Before she could come into her combat mode, she stared at him for few minutes and left toward her new room. He followed her but she shut the door on his face. He wasn’t surprised. He knew the reason.

He wanted to say sorry. He never thought it would be like this. He wanted to give her best life. Unfortunately the beginning went all wrong. An idea struck him.  He took out his phone to order food. He ordered her favourite Chinese dish. As he waited for the food, he heard her open the door. She had maggi packet and a small silver vessel in her hand as she headed towards the kitchen.


She tried to switch on the gas stove with gas lighter to boil the water. Nothing worked. She tried to use matchstick to light the fire. Zain watched her burn in frustration. "It's no use trying. There is no gas in cylinder.", he said with a smile. His smile irritated her more. She threw the match stick box aside in anger and stomped towards her room. She shut the door again.

Zain knocked the door. "Don't get angry, darling. I have ordered your favorite food. I am sorry for all the inconvenience.", he consoled her. She didn't open the door instead she said furiously "Don't talk to me, Zain. I am angry." "I am sorry", he repeated. There was no reply only sobbing. Suddenly she said aloud, " I wish I hadn't agreed to living in with you." Her words struck him like sharp knife. It pained deeply.

The food arrived. But he didn't have the appetite. His eyes were almost closing when suddenly he heard someone standing behind him. It was Jasmine. Though her eyes were red ,her expressions were calm now. She was holding the paper lunch box given by the restaurant.  "It smells yummy.This is non veg. What if Usha Tai catches us?", she asked.

He smiled. "Don't worry. She will not get to know.", he said as he pulled her hand and dragged her to sit close to him. They shared their first meal together. Love got back again and filled the atmosphere between them. After scrumptious meal, they chatted for a while. Zain mostly joked while Jasmine laughed delightfully. As she called it nights, he wanted to spend more time. They playfully argued until they decided it was time to go to bed.

(To be continued)

The Tenants from Flat no #2 - Part 8

Zain triumphantly opened the door of his new house. Others followed him. Mahesh handed him the copy of contract papers and said, "Keep this safely. If there is anything you need, you can contact Tai. She stays downstairs. She will be there for you now on." Tai smiled and said with tint of irony, "They are like my kids. I will take good care of them in absence of their parents." Everyone knew her words weren't true.

Mahesh bid him goodbye and left immediately. Tai didn't leave. Zain and Jasmine wanted her to leave but didn't say anything. They smiled at her. After few minutes , Zain asked, "Do you need something, Tai?" "Nothing!", she replied not realizing that they wanted her to leave.  Zain looked at Jasmine with pleading eyes that asked her what to do. Jasmine didn't know either. She only knew that if she opened her mouth, Tai would start either belittling her or bragging about her children. It will continue whole night.

Tai remembered at last what she had to say. "The house is in best condition and I want it in the same condition when you leave the house. Last tenants were so unclean. I had to fully renovate this house.", she said as she made her comfortable on the sofa. Jasmine folded her arms in frustration and gestured Zain with her eyes to ask Tai to leave the house. "I also don't want too much noise. Youngsters these days love to party and dance in lewd songs. It won't happen here.", Tai continued.

"Bring your friends. Talk to them and serve them food. But don't put loud music and dance. I get headaches from the thumping of feet sound. Anyway, I am sure you don't drink because of your religious beliefs. But don''t cook or bring non veg food. I am pure vegetarian. I don't my house to be contaminated. Whatever you want to eat, eat outside and come. I think Mahesh must have told you.", she said.

The couple stared at the old lady in shock. "No non veg?", they blurted out in surprise. Tai looked at them suspiciously. "Didn't Mahesh tell you about this? I am surprised. I told Mahesh about this conditions before renting it to you guys. That man is a rascal. Always behind money. Anyway, now you know, I am sure you will follow this rule. Or else you can vacate the house and take the money", Tai said firmly as she got up from her seat to leave.

Zain agreed with heavy heart. He had invested lot of effort and money in finding a house. He didn't have energy to find a place to stay. He had already vacated his room which he shared with his friends. That was not the problem. Problem was that he had bragged that he had got nice place to stay with his girlfriend. He didn't want to go back. He also didn't want to Jasmine to go back. Now she wouldn't get the room back in her PG. Contrary Jasmine wanted to slap him tight. "How much should we adjust?", she wondered.