PAYBACK TIME

C H A P T E R - 31

Most people do not listen with the intent to understand, they listen with the intent to reply.

– Stephen R.Covey

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Read the author's note at the end

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A

bhi was in a foul mood during the car ride. Generally Abhi was the type of person who always talks. Seeing him quite didn't sit well with Purab.

So he questioned, ''What is the matter? You seem awfully quite.''

''Why does she dislike me this much?''Abhi questioned frustrated.

''Who?''Purab asked perplexed.

''Prachi'' Abhi answered.

''Did something happen when you were with Disha?''Purab asked and Abhi narrated the scene to him.

''I am really grateful to you and Sunny for helping us.''Abhi expressed his gratitude.

''What is family for if not to help each other in tough times.''Disha said as they walked through the corridor.

They both came to a stop when they heard voices. It sounded angry. Though Abhi was unaware of the voices' Owner, Disha quickly identified who it belonged to.

''What is happening?''Abhi asked curious.

''I am not sure. Let us head back.''Disha said.

''Wait. Let us see who it is.''Abhi said and rounded the corner. He was immediately met with the sight of an angry Prachi.

''Prachi, are you alright? What happened? Why are you angry?''Abhi asked concerned.

But Prachi looked absolutely surprised to see him there. ''Maasi what is he doing here?''Prachi asked Disha ignoring Abhi.

''Did you not know I am coming here tonight? I thought you came tonight to meet me.'' Abhi asked.

''Why would I come here to meet you of all people?''She asked looking at him as if he repulsed her.

''What are you speaking? I am your father.''Abhi said.

''No, you are not.''Prachi said irked.

''I get it you are angry at me thinking that I abandoned you. But Pragya is lying. I actually wanted to keep you with me.''Abhi said looking hurt by her previous words.

''Thank God. Maa took me away with her. Imagine living with you and your family. I guess I was lucky.''Prachi said tauntingly and before he could speak she continued.

''My Maa did not lie to me about the reason of your seperation. I know what happened.''

''No, you do not. If you knew you would not talk like this. If you want you can ask Disha. She was there when everything happened.''Abhi told exasperated.

''Okay. Let us hear your version of the story.'' Prachi said.

''It was a mutual seperation. After Ki- Kiara.'' He stopped mid sentence as memories flooded back of that dreadful day.