FALSAFA

CHAPTER 19 - On the Last Day!

I kept it a surprise. I bought a ring and made all arrangements. I planned the evening for her but I needed to be alone, to check for the final time.

I spoke to the hotel manager about any distractions nearby.

He informed me that another group of tourists staying at the same hotel were going out for mountain trekking and Prisha could join them.

I thought it was perfect idea. She will never say no to this.

I pretended to be sick and asked Prisha to go alone.

She said no at first but I convinced her later.

On the day -

Prisha: But I wanted you to come with me!

Me: What can I do baby! I'm sick...couldn't help it. But I don't want to ruin your excitement. So you carry on. We'll have dinner together once you come back.

Prisha: OK as you wish. Take care. I'll see you soon.

She leaned forward and kissed me on my check before leaving.

I can never forget that touch. Her eyes! The shine...The excitement....

As she left I immediately started to check the arrangements.

I planned that as soon as she will enter the room, I'll sing her favorite song for her. Then I'll express my feelings in words. Then I will kneel on one leg and propose her.

I ordered her favorite pizza.

Everything was set. It was now just to wait for my queen to come.

I was thinking of how we used to imagine of this proposal time during out dating period.

I joked that I'll never marry her, because she is a bit crazy. And every time she replied the same "When I'll leave you, then you will miss this CRAZY".

Our old college time was clearly visible to me, the day we met, our hangouts, fights....everything.

I thought of calling her once to know her location but then changed my mind.

I sat on the bed and was lost in her thoughts. I was already missing her. I wished that she come home quickly and I give her the surprise. She will be so shocked.

I was so engrossed in my thoughts that I didn't realize when I passed out and fell asleep.

I woke up around 6:30 pm. I opened my eyes and opened my phone. I stood up with a jerk on seeing the time.

But where was Prisha. She should have reached by then. I thought of waiting for some more time.

I convinced myself that I was just being impatient. I was too excited.

I waited for next full hour, but no sign of her.

By then I started feeling tensed. Where were you Prisha? Please come fast. I called her several times but her phone was out of reach.

Just then my phone rang. I thought it was her but the screen flashed "DAD". I received the call.

Me: Yes dad?

Dad: Dhruv are you ok beta?

Me: Yes... why?

I could hear my mom fighting to take over the call.

Mom: Dhruv are you both okay?

Me: Yes mom but will you please tell me what happened?

Mom: (concerned) Haven't you seen the news?

Me: Ummmm.....NO...I was busy. Wait, I'll see!!

I turned on the T.V and switched to the news channel.

My jaw dropped on seeing the headline!!!!

The phone fell from my hand.

I started to shiver!!