ENTWINED (Complete)

SIX- PART A

RISHAB'S POV

When I woke up it was already seven in the evening. I slept for seven hours. Ashi was still sleeping beside me hugging a pillow. I smiled seeing her. Without disturbing her I went outside Bhabhisa was in kitchen cooking and Bhaisa was watching news. I went near Bhaisa and sat beside him.

Feeling fresh? Bhaisa asked me.

Yes. I really needed that sleep. Bhaisa i need to talk with you. I said

Bhaisa nodded and switching off the television said, Meera, I am in my study with Rishab

Come. He said patting my back

GOPAL'S STUDY

Bhaisa made two glasses of wine for us and passed one to me.

I took a gulp of wine.

Bhaisa thank you. If it was not for you and Bhabhisa I do not even know what I would have done. Where I would take her. Ashi is a minor just 17 I cannot even take her to any hotel.

Rishab we are family. I am your brother. You don't thank your family. Amm...Rishab Can i ask you something?

I nodded

Is her age the reason you stay away from her or your guilt or the fact she was already married and that too to Kartik, your brother?

Bhaisa even I was in live in relationship for two years and about being married to my brother her marriage to Kartik Bhaisa was against her wish. The only feeling she ever had for him was fear I know that for sure. I am guilty about how I behaved but we both had accepted our marriage and I will try my best to give her all the care and respect she deserves from now. Sighs. Bhaisa she is just a kid and how could I claim my rights on her just because I married her.

Gopal Bhaisa went towards window. He stood facing window and said when I was married to Meera she was just 14. Initially I used to avoid any kind of physical relation with her as I wanted her to get comfortable with me. But women in our tribe have been taught that husband shows his love for wife through sex. Meera misunderstood my intentions she thought I am not interested in her. She went in depression.

I was shocked to hear what Bhaisa told me.

Rishab, Ashi is a widow and you know how they treat widows in our tribe and if you will not show her physical affection, she may get insecure about her position in your life. If you want to wait just talk to her explain her your point but she needs your affection.

I will explain her my point of view Bhaisa. I said

That will be better. Talk to her don't repeat the mistakes I did Rishu. Bhaisa said

So, when are you joining Raheja firms?

Bhaisa I have decided to take post of associate professor in Delhi law college.

But you always wanted to work as criminal lawyer with Raheja firms.

I wanted to work. But now. Sighs. Everything is new for Ashi. I cannot leave her alone and working as criminal lawyer in a law firm is very hectic. As professor my working hours will be limited plus pay will be good. So that is more convenient. I already sent them mail confirming my joining. I have to join after 20 days.

Bhaisa I need a safe place where Ashi will be safe and comfortable in my absence once i join college. She will be alone at home. I....

Rishab why don't you and Ashi stay here

Bhaisa how i could...already you are doing this much for us.

Rishab even Me and Meera miss family. We have friends here but not family. Ashi will be comfortable with Meera and even Meera will have Ashi with her. She does not tell me but I know she does miss her sisters. Think about it. Bhaisa said.

I will Bhaisa.

Come let go for dinner. Bhaisa said