My Guiding Star

Part Ten

"What costume are you planning for marriage Niru?" Sanjana Asked Niranjana. 

"I am planning for a saree. But let's do some purchase for you. Mind it, we have to purchase your wedding Reception costumes and also some other dresses for you. That is more important than my shopping" replied Niranjana with a false cheerful voice. She don't want others to find her disappointment.

It was cute to see Sridhar and Sanjana selecting costumes for other. Niranjana felt happy that Sanjana got an understanding life partner. At the same time she cannot stop feeling jealous. It seems that Ranjan does not remember anything happened between them. She is a love sick fool to remember and cherish them.

After finding a comfortable seat in the food court, both the guys have gone to buy food for the four. "Niranjana, Are you OK? You look bit dull suddenly. You were restless for the past two days too. What is the problem? Anything bothering you?" Sanjana questioned her worriedly. 

Niranjana shook her head and laughed "Nothing dear. Past one year I was very much held up in college and still not used to have so much of free time. That's why. And now I am feeling hungry after all the roaming around. Leave about me. Look Sridhar and Ranjan are back with food." She let out a sigh on getting escaped now. She should be more careful in showing her emotions. She cannot go on give excuses every time.

"Have you started inviting your friends Sanju?" Niranjana asked Sanjana while having their food. 

"I am planning to start from this week end. Most of my friends are out of station, so I will be posting the invites to them. I have some 8 – 10 friends around here and I think I can cover them this week end. What about you? How many invitations will you be needing?" Sanjana asked back Niranjana. 

"I am planning to invite couple of my college friends and school friends. Its long time since I met Sharvika. I lost contact after her marriage. She haven't contacted any of our friends. I was planning to meet her while inviting to your marriage. I will give you the count tomorrow. But I don't know how will I go over places. Dad sold my old scooter. Probably should book a cab."

"Why don't you take Ranjan? He can take you rather booking the cab. The city have changed a lot recently and better to have someone who know the routes." 

Niranjana refused rather quickly "No. No. He will be busy with his work. Let's not disturb him." 

Sanjana was surprised on her answer. "Not disturb him? Niru, when have you thought about him like that?" Niranjana wished they could drop that subject. 

To add on her pressure Ranjan added "If you plan on weekends I will be free to take you. What do you say?" If she declined any further then she should face unnecessary questions. She decided to accept for now and politely give some excuse to Ranjan later.

"That's settled then. Anybody wants ice cream?" Sridhar asked. "There is a good ice cream parlor in the ground floor. If we are done with lunch, let's go there" he suggested the gang. 

Niranjana asked them to go first as she wanted to check a shop here and told that she will join in few minutes. When she entered they have already started having their ice cream. While joining them she saw a cup waiting for her too.

"Oh Good Niranjana. We were worried if you would be late as the ice cream started melting already. You always prefer black current right? I have even got the Gems toppings for you." 

Niranjana's eyes misted with tears to see that Ranjan remembers this. He had actually listened to her then and still remembers it. What is the meaning for this? That he cares for her? Or he still thinks as sweet kid sister of his friend? How can she find it? Oh God Won't she get an end for this?