I Have You - Episode 30: Does it mean I accepted him without even realizing it?

Days were passing! I was looking for new homes. Finding a home suitable for my taste was really difficult! And then this thing happened and I forgot about searching for a new home for me.

I was working at the office. My mom called me! She never calls me during office hours. I went out to take the call. The call was disconnected before I took it. I was about to call back and she called me again. I took the call and she started asking casual questions. I asked her to call in the evening if there is nothing important to speak about. And then she told me why she called me.
"Ash Darling! You said your landlord was your classmate!", she was speaking.
Now, what did she know! Why was she asking about Teja?
"Yes, Mom! His name is Teja! Why are you asking about him now?", I asked her.
"Do you like him?", she asked me. I was surprised to hear that. What is happening?
I answered her, "No!". She said, "Ooh! You don't like him!". This is getting hectic.
"Mooom! Why are you asking me these! I am working here! What's going on?", I shouted at her.
She was giggling. "Moo..m!", I was about to ask her again and she answered me, "Teja's grandmother called us today. She spoke to me and Papa! She wants you to marry her grandson.".
"What? Teja?", I was in shock. She was telling all those words Teja's grandmother spoke to them.
And before she disconnected, she asked me a question. "Ash! What do you think?". I shouted at her with anger. I was irritated with Teja's actions, "Mom! Pleaa..see!".
She giggled again and said, "Let's take some time to think about this!".
I disconnected her call before she completed speaking.

I was taking a deep breath. I was planning what to do next! I went to Vennela and told her what my mom said to me. She was surprised to hear that, "Wow! Teja did that! Or maybe this is totally my grandmother's idea! Whatever it may be! I like that! Welcome to the family!". She was teasing me and I was already in irritation. I left her and went to call Anshu. Anshu should have known about this from before. Let's speak to her. I called her, she took the call and was speaking like she knew nothing.
"Anshu! My mom called me! She said Teja's grandmother wants me to marry Teja!", I told her.
"Oh! So it already reached you! The grandmother is really effective!", She said.
I asked her, "So, you were there with her all the time! You knew it all from the beginning! And you didn't tell me?".
She asked me back, "What will you do if I tell you earlier! It's the same! Isn't it?". What will I do?
I was listening to Anshu, "Teja's winning this game and I like it! Welcome to the family!".
I didn't listen to what she has to speak and I disconnected her call. I didn't take any calls from that moment. I finished my work and left home.

I sat in silence at the penthouse. I didn't cook yet. It was 10 PM. Even, Vennela wasn't bothering me today. I was lost in thoughts. I lost my anger and was thinking with a cool mind. I decided I should speak to Teja first! I called him and asked him to meet him. He was standing in front of me after a few minutes. "I think you should tell me what's happening!", I told him.
He smiled and started speaking, "I hinted Padma that I like you! She took the lead!".
I didn't know what to do? Shall I get angry with him or Shall I ignore this? He was speaking again.
"Ash! What will you do now? My grandmother is very sensitive. If you reject her proposal, she will never speak to you again!".
"Teja! Are you blackmailing me?", I shouted at him.
He was laughing and told me that he was just having fun. He asked me if I had my dinner. I told him that I didn't. He asked me to wait at the canopy shelter behind the penthouse. I waited. Vennela brought me some food. I was concentrating on my food and Teja entered.
"If you were that hungry! You should eat first! Instead of thinking about me!", he was happy to say those words. Vennela smiled.
"Who was thinking about you? Always thinking so high of yourself", I scolded him.
He laughed and sat opposite to me. He asked again, "Ash! Will, you marry me?".
It was the same place and the same words. I laughed out. Vennela was surprised by Teja's words and my laughter. She was looking at me with questions in mind. I felt questions flowing in my mind too.

When he proposed to me here for the first time, I ran away after rejecting him. This time I am still sitting in front of him and I was laughing. Does it mean I accepted him without even realizing it?


-(to be continued)





Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 29: I thought I can hide this forever! But!

"Anvesh! I remember that you wanted to buy me a purple watch too! So that's the case!", I joked and laughed at Anvesh sarcastically.
He looked at me, felt relieved and started speaking, "I thought you will bang my head with this box! Now! You are in a good mood! I can explain this!".
He continued, "Many years back! Teja gave this watch to Shree! Shree came to my office, she waited for me until I met her! She gave this to me and asked me to get this back to its real owner!".
I told him, "But I don't think I am that person!".
I thought for a moment and spoke to him, "Anvesh! You do one thing! You take my watch too and give these watches to Teja!".
Anvesh smiled and asked to hear his full story, "I went to Teja first! He gave me two options! Throw it away! OR Give it to Ash! You know Teja! He is strict with his words! Even though this watch is a bad memory..".
He was thinking and looking at the watch he brought, "Ash! I never spoke about those days! I and Teja went through a lot of embarrassment, pain, and loneliness when an incident happened in our lives. This watch is a memory from those days. Still, if I throw it I will feel like something really beautiful which holds beautiful feelings and memories will be lost. But, if you have it! It will have a new life and a new meaning!".
I was impressed with those words, "Anvesh! I never thought you were this poetic! I am so much impressed! I never thought you can even speak like this! Anyway! Just leave it there! I will hold it for you!".
He was happy to hear that. He was smiling to himself. He said he has to leave! Closed his bag and left the penthouse.


A few minutes later Vennela arrived, "I heard Anvesh speaking to Teja! I am curious! I want to have a look at that old watch! Can I Ash?".
I told her that she can use it if she wants. She smiled and opened it. After she looked at it, she said that it looks almost similar to the one I was wearing now.
I was wearing the purple watch! Oh Yes! I wore it in the morning when I didn't find my watch in the morning and also I was wearing a purple shirt. I went to the dressing table, removed the watch, placed in the drawer and I saw the watch which I wear to the office under my bed.
"Ash! There is something in this watch box!", Vennela handed over a wrapped paper slip from the watch box. I was very curious and I opened it! 121`"Ash! Teja is someone who has to be treasured!" These were the words written on it.
I laughed, Vennela saw that and she started laughing too.
`I asked Vennela, "I know why I am laughing! Why are you laughing?".
"Because you are laughing!", she looked at me and we started laughing again.
"Shree was the one who left Teja. Even Shree is sending recommendations for Teja!", Vennela heard me and started laughing more.
Shree regrets being separated from Teja and she sends a note to me asking me to treasure him. Interesting!


It was a weekend! I and Vennela were playing a game at the penthouse. I called Anvesh, he didn't take my call. I ignored that and was concentrating on my game. Anshu called me casually. She was speaking usual stuff and was reveling some interesting things about Teja's grandmother. She said that it's fun having the grandmother around. She asked me what were my weekend plans. I told her that I called Anvesh to ask the same question but he didn't take my call. She said that Anvesh could be busy vacating his place. Oh! I was surprised to learn that! I told Anshu that he didn't tell me about that and asked her where he was going. She told me that it was somewhere nearby his old place and that could be the reason he didn't tell me about that. I felt that this was fishy! I spoke to Anshu and disconnected her call. I took Vennela and went to Anvesh's place for a walk.

I saw Anvesh and Teja carrying some bags and going towards the house I liked a few days back! Vennela saw Teja and called him. We should have quietly followed them first Vennela! Teja and Anvesh saw us! They dropped the bags and approached us.
Anvesh spoke to me, "I thought I can hide this forever! But!".
Anvesh was looking at Teja's face and he spoke again, "Ash! This was all Teja's idea!".
Teja was smiling in a childish way. I shouted at Anvesh, "I liked that house. You snatched it away from me! It's difficult finding homes like that! Where will I go when Teja's parents are back!". Anvesh was showing his teeth to me. Teja interrupted me, "Ash! That won't be necessary!". I ordered him to stop speaking and left them there.

Vennela was following me. She was trying to hold back her smile. I asked her not to hold back and tell me what is the reason.
She said, "Teja's commitment! It is impressive!". Here's the sister with a recommendation! Again!
I told her, "His commitment! Really impressive! But I am irritated by his actions! Protect your brother! Someday I will kick him for sure".
She smiled at me and I smiled back at her. I got hungry and I took her to eat Aaloo paratha.

I remembered something and I asked her, "When are your parents coming back from the tour?".
She thought for a moment and answered me, "Maybe next month!".
I spoke to Vennela in panic, "But I still didn't find a new place! You should have told me Vennela!". She smiled and said, "They were just planning that yesterday! But it's not sure yet! And.. Teja asked me not to bother you by telling this!".
It looks like I have to start my house hunting again. I also had an option to rent the house they will vacate on the second floor. That way! I can meet with Vennela every day and have fun!


-(to be continued)





Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 28: He took a box from his bag. I was curious and I opened it.

I spoke to Teja, "These aren't a computer program! You write some code and hurray everything's connected! It is my feeling! How can you change it?".

He smiled and said nothing. What can he say? He is still digesting the words I spoke to him. I should leave him alone. I was about to leave and I saw Vennela arriving. I remembered an unread message from Vennela. I took my mobile and saw it. It was, "Ash! Do you still want freedom from me?". I replied back, "Yes! 😜". She was walking inside, stopped and saw my message. She looked at me, smiled and came to me, "Ash! Ash!". We were just smiling at each other like mad people.

"Vennela, please help me vacate the other bedroom. Teja wants to get some renovations done in that room. It's better if we get that done today!". Vennela and I went back to the penthouse and started vacating the other room. I was remembering the words Teja spoke before Vennela arrived.

"Ash! You had an option to like Anvesh! Now you have an option to accept me! I think you can rule out Anvesh! When I proposed to you, he was always behind me encouraging. He never stood up saying, "Stay away Teja! She is my girl!" So.. ruled out! There would be one more option for you, to marry some person your parents will choose for you. I heard someone say a known devil is better than an unknown angel. I am that known devil. I am the best option in any case.".
"Stop boasting Teja!", I told him.
He spoke out immediately, "I said I am a devil! In what case it can be considered as boasting!".
I clarified to him, "You said you are the best option! That is called boasting! Anyway, You are not a devil! No need to feel bad about yourself!".
He was happy to hear that, "If I am not a devil! I am an angel! Isn't it? Still the best option for you!". He called Anvesh and was telling him that I called him an angel. I denied it.
Teja asked me, "But I am Mr. Arrrogant! Why did you say that I am not a devil?".
I replied to him, "Because you are not a devil! I know that!".
I should just ask him to stop and spoke to Teja, "Teja! These aren't a computer program! You write some code and hurray everything's connected! It is my feeling! How can you change it? It would be better if you forget all about this!". He smiled, sighed a 'No' to my words, stood up and went to the juice counter.

Now when I remember his words, they feel good. There was nothing wrong with his words.

Next-Day! I cooked breakfast for me and Vennela. She was getting late and she wasn't even taking her call. I went to her home. It was locked and I was going back. I met Vennela and Teja near the stairs.
"Ash! Please wait for a few minutes! I will get ready! We can start soon!", Vennela was requesting me.
I smiled back and said, "I will pack breakfast for you!".
She was happy and was going inside.
Teja asked Vennela, "What about my breakfast?".
She answered him saying, "You can just eat anything! I will eat at Ashs' place!".
Teja was thinking while he spoke these words, "I think I heard this somewhere!".
Vennela smiled. She was happy to say this to Teja, "You always say these words to me when you are planning to visit Anvesh's place.".
She went inside. Teja was standing in front of me. We were silent.
I need to speak something, "Where are you people coming from?".
"We went to drop Padma at Anshu's place.", He told me.
"I heard this name somewhere!", I was speaking to myself.
"My grandmother! She is here!", Teja spoke to me and he continued, "We went to drop her at Anshu's place! Uncle and Aunty were also here. Vennela was getting late so, I brought her here. I should have had my breakfast when Anshu asked me. Uh-uh".
We smiled at each other and dispersed.


After work, I was relaxing and watching some songs on TV. I heard someone ring my doorbell. It must be Vennela but I kept the door open for her. Why is she ringing the bell? I opened the door. It was Anvesh! I was surprised! He never visited us at the penthouse even when Anshu was living here. He looked at me and started laughing.
"What?", I asked him curiously.
He said, "I have never seen you dressed so funny!".
I realized that I was in my pajamas and I didn't even brush my hair yet. I made Anvesh sit on the sofa. I went inside, brushed my hair and sat with him. I lowered the TV volume.
"Anvesh! What bring's you here?", I asked him.
He was speaking with hesitation, "I have to hand this over to you!".

He took a box from his bag. I was curious and I opened it. It was a purple watch. It was similar to the one I have.
"What is this Anvesh?", I shouted at him.
He was speechless. He was showing weird kind of expressions on his face. He was scared to hand this over to me. Yet! he is here to do that. It looks like he won't be speaking anymore. I would have to ask him some questions to understand the situation.



-(to be continued)





Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 27: If I make you feel connected! Would you accept me?

Vennela was standing in front of me! She was about to cry because I was ignoring her.
"I am not mad at youVennela!", I told her.
She asked me, "Then why are you behaving like this?".
"Your brother!" I answered her.
She was silent and she started looking into her phone. She showed me her credit card statement, "See! I am the one who bought that watch!".
I countered her back saying, "Even if you pay! I am very sure it is your brother who selected it! I also know why he selected that watch in particular!".
"What you said is true! I won't deny it!" she spoke those words and was still standing inform of me.
"Vennela! I am really not mad you! I want to be alone! Please leave for now!" She listened to my words, agreed with me and left me alone.

Next day! I was at home all day. I rejected to meet anyone. I rejected to speak to anyone. I cooked my dinner and finished it all. I was getting bored, so I looked at my mobile. I saw missed calls from my mom and a few other messages. I intentionally muted my phone. I don't want anyone to disturb me. I ignored the messages and called my mom back. She asked me if I ate. I told her that I ate. She asked me if I cooked at home. She is like that. I assured her that I cooked at home. She felt that I was not in a good mood. She asked me what's happening. I told her that it was nothing. She was inquiring me, "Ash darling! Are you mad? Is it because I told you that I cannot come and live with you? Why don't you leave that job there? Or get a transfer? Or find a new job here? Are you speaking to Anshu? How is she? Don't you want to come back home? At least plan a vacation? This! That! Blah! Blah!". I listened to her and disconnected her call. There were messages from Anshu, Anvesh, Vennela and Teja.
I looked at Teja's first! "Ash! We should speak! I will wait at the juice bar near our home!"
Anvesh's message was "Sorry Ash!". Anshu's message was "Ash! You call me back, else I will kick you hard!". I smiled after reading Anshu's message and called her back. I didn't speak much. She could read my bad mood from my words. She told me that I should speak to Teja. She told me that Teja and Anvesh are the juice bar. I listened to her words and disconnected her call. I thought for a few minutes, I was avoiding to speak about Teja's feelings from the time he proposed to me. I decided it is time to speak to him. I washed my face. Changed into casual wear. I walked to the juice bar.

I entered the juice bar. Teja and Anvesh were seated at a table. I went to them and sat opposite Anvesh ignoring Teja. Anvesh smiled at me, he said sorry, stood up and went to order something for me. Teja changed his seat and sat opposite me. He was using a convincing tone.
"Ash! Why are you like this? Be yourself!".
"Who is the reason for my bad mood?", I made it clear to him that it was him.
"Ash! I am sorry! I lied to Shree! But I felt great lying to her!", he was smiling.
At that moment, I felt better. Is it because I helped him feel great in front of his ex-girlfriend? The person who is an indirect reason for Anvesh's suffering back in those days. I wasn't speaking a word and was into my thoughts.
"Ash! Please speak up! I said I am sorry!", he was requesting and Anvesh was back with the juice. He handed it over to me, took his mobile phone and went to call someone. I was concentrating on my juice. Ignore T E J A!
"Ash! Let's speak! Speak about us!", he said. I stopped him saying, "There is no "US" !".
He smiled and asked me, "Why did you say no when I proposed you?".
I said, "A No is a No!".
He spoke, "Yes! I heard it! I asked why? what's the reason?".
I asked him back, "Did I ever behave like I will say yes if you propose me?".
"No! But you were so much into Anvesh, I had to hurry up! This was the only way I could make you think about me! I don't want you to think about him!", he was pointing to Anvesh. I wasn't speaking.
He started speaking again, "Ash! I want to know the reason? Is it because I am arrogant!"
"Is it because you don't like me?" "Is it because you like Anvesh more?"
"Is it because of the college days?" "Is it because of the penthouse?"
My answer was no for all his questions. He asked me, "Then what's the reason for the rejection Ash!". I could feel the pain in his words. He spoke out again, "And you are not yourself from few days. That doesn't feel good!". I have to give him a proper answer. He was looking at me waiting for me to speak.
"Teja! I don't hate you! That doesn't mean I love you! I like you as a friend! You are a good guy! There is no need to hurt you!", I was speaking and he was listening carefully. I continued, "I wasn't interested in you. You come to me and you propose to me. I had no reason to dance, say yes to you and jump into a relationship! I don't feel a connection between us!". I was done speaking. He was into his thoughts. A smile came onto his face. I smiled back at him.
He was so confident speaking, "If I make you feel connected! Would you accept me?".
I answered him right away, "Yes!". Why did I say yes?  I was curious and I asked him, "But? What can anyone do about that?". He answered me, "I don't know but I will have to find a way!". His confidence made me smile. I wished him all the best!
He asked me, "Did you eat anything?".
I answered, "The only thing I am doing from yesterday is eating!".
We both smiled at each other!

-(to be continued)






Authored  by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 26: Enough! This is going nowhere! Stop it! Forget everything! I am leaving!

Shree and Teja were standing at the point where they met. They were speaking and were smiling at each other. Others were pretending like they were here for shopping but they were all observing Teja. They were trying to hide their curiosity but it was very obvious.

I was looking at Shree! She was pretty! She was chubby! She was wearing glossy makeup. Her cheeks were shining and when she was smiling, she was shining more. She was wearing a red top, black & white striped short skirt and red high heeled sandals. She was very short! Hence the very high shoes! Isn't she wearing too much makeup? I was smiling to myself! Vennela called out for me!
She asked, "Why are smiling?". I told her that it was nothing.
Anshu started attacking me with her words, "Why are you staring at Shree like you are going to eat her up?".
I laughed and answered her, "She looks so pretty!".
She countered me right away, "Are you jealous? Ash?".
I interrupted her to reply back, she was not even done speaking "Anshu! Not at all! 0%".
I was too loud! Everyone nearby was looking at me! Oh No! It was embarrassing! I apologized in a low voice and looked at Teja and Shree! Shree was looking at me and she smiled. I couldn't hold back and I smiled back to her. This is what I felt at that moment, they look so good together! Oh! My heart started beating faster! It was too fast! I couldn't handle myself. Anvesh was standing in front of me. I used his shoulder as support. He looked at me, he smiled and started speaking about our college days. Maybe he remembered those days while he was looking at Teja and Shree. After a few minutes, he took me to the chocolate shop and we were trying some chocolates.
When it comes to sweets, flies are sure to gather around! Everyone was scattered before we entered! But after we entered the chocolate shop, everyone joined us including Teja and Shree!
Shree was sitting beside me! So awkward! I was not going to speak to her! Let's stay in silence! But it didn't happen. She started speaking to me.
"It's so much fun meeting you people today! Ash? Isn't that your name?", she spoke to me looking into my eyes. I nodded my head and escaped her looks.
"Ash! What is your full name? I am curious?" She asked.
Teja was at the counter, he called out for Shree and she went to him! T E J A! This Teja guy, he is generally sunk into his phone when we go out. But instead of doing that today, he was entertaining miss ex-girlfriend today! So much fun to look at! I was looking at them. Teja looked at me and he was approaching our table. I ignored him. He came to me, stood beside me and took my hand. He is doing this again. I was about to teach him a lesson, Teja spoke aloud! "Saw this?". Shree saw that and she smiled. Shree came near to us and asked Teja, "I thought you were lying! Now I believe everything you told!". She smiled and took my hand. It was so awkward! She was holding my arm, looking at the watch and was speaking, "This one is more beautiful than that! Teja! You have got Ash! Lucky you!". She moved close to Teja and whispered to him, "I have always regretted being separated from you!". I could hear that as I was sitting so close to them. I changed my face to expressionless face. Am I even supposed to respond for that? Teja moved away from Shree. He was seated and he started looking into his phone. He was totally ignoring Shree even if she was speaking to him. She smiled and told us that she would be leaving. She requested all of us to get a group picture for her memory. I was standing at the end of the picture. Shree insisted me to stand beside her and I agreed generously. Teja was standing on the other side. She said bye to all and left.

It was my time to show my feelings! I faced Teja!, "What was all that? You have got Ash? That was too much! When did I say that you got me?". He was smiling at me. I will open up my feelings! I removed that watch and offered it back to Teja, "Take it back! Else I will throw it!".  He was still smiling. Vennela interrupted me, "Ash! That watch has nothing to do with Teja! I will feel bad if you can't keep it!". Here comes the sensitive queen Vennela. I was angry so, I didn't want to listen to her and I spoke back to her, "Vennela! What was all that fuss in the morning! This watch will match your outfit. Please wear! This! That! Weren't you planning this?". Teja was surprised after listening to my words and he asked Vennela, "Was this planned by you?". Vennela was speechless and she was looking at us with a surprise expression! I and Teja were looking at her with anger. Anvesh spoke out, "It's me!". Teja almost shouted on him, "What are you?Explain?". He answered back to Teja, "It's me! I called her here!". Teja shouted on him, "What?". How can he shout on Anvesh? No one is supposed to hurt Anvesh or Vennela. This conversation is going in a very bad direction. Even if I am angry, I have to stop this! I spoke to all and I wasn't facing anyone, "Enough! This is going nowhere! Stop it! Forget everything! I am leaving! Anshu and Vennela told me that we will all leave together but I rejected them and I left alone.

Few hours after I reached home, Vennela knocked on my door! I knew it was her! I didn't open it for her! She requested me to open it! I opened it for her, ignored her and sat back pretending to watch TV. She switched off the TV, smiled at me and said, "That was a coincidence! I didn't know anything about Shree visiting us! I swear!". She was honest. I said Okay and was still ignoring her. She felt bad and was about to cry.



-(to be continued)






Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 25: Stop it! I won't! I won't leave my penthouse!

I was searching for a new home. There was an empty house near Anvesh's place. I visited that house. It was good for me. Small and beautiful! Good place and good price! All good! I was returning after that. Anvesh was waiting for me at his place. I saw him, smiled and went to him. Teja appeared in front of me as soon as I met Anvesh! He is always here at Anvesh's place. Still, I liked the house! It should be better than Teja's penthouse. I need not see his face every day if I rent this house.
"Teja! I am vacating the penthouse soon!" I almost shouted at him with happiness. I am getting rid of you! Hahaha! That was what I was thinking!
He smiled! Sarcastically! And he started speaking. "Finally I win! Getting the penthouse vacated!". He was looking at Anvesh and started laughing. Anvesh also started laughing.
I was angry! I made him win! He is really snatching away my penthouse and I am the one helping him! I couldn't control my anger! I feel like kicking Teja! I wanted to stop him laugh!
I shouted at him, "Teja! I won't let you win!".
"Then! What can you do?" He was mocking me!
Anger! Feeling of making him win! I couldn't accept that! He was laughing at me!
"Stop it! I won't! I won't leave my penthouse! You lose!".
Teja was looking at me without any expression, he turned his back and went inside without a word. I stood there realizing what happened. Anvesh was still standing in front of me and he smiled back at me. I left him there without saying a word!

I was on my way, back to the penthouse. I told Teja that I am not leaving the penthouse! I thought I was not letting him win! But what does Teja want? He wants me to stay in the penthouse! He still won! He tricked me! What should I do next? Forget about what I said and vacate the penthouse? This T E J A is making everything difficult for me. I was thinking about that and I opened the penthouse door. Vennela was waiting for me. I told her everything! She called her brother and started scolding him for bothering me. She already finished scolding him before I understood what she was doing! I could hear Teja laughing on the other side. He is having fun! No doubt about that!
"Ash! Sorry for what Teja is doing?" She apologized! I told her that it isn't required! She didn't do anything wrong!
I decided to rent that house which I visited a few minutes back. I called its landlord! He said that someone else already paid advance for it just now! My search for a home begins again!

It was a weekend! I was getting ready to check some homes! Vennela came rushing to me, "I just got some tickets for a movie! Get ready! Fast!". I rejected her. She convinced me and scolded me for rejecting to have fun with her. I canceled my plan and joined her. It was a funny movie. We had fun! We were visiting the shopping mall after the movie. We were wandering around and suddenly, a pretty girl started waving to us. She came to us and started speaking to Teja! Vennela was holding my hand and took me away. She was pretending to look at some stuff to buy, but she was observing Teja! Anshu was ignoring all that and was trying some jewelry. I asked Vennela, "Who is that girl?". Anshu asked me back, "You don't know her?". I was thinking if I really know her. Vennela answered me while I was busy thinking, "Its Shree!". I countered her, "Great! Who is Shree?". Anshu started laughing! Vennela smiled and answered me, "Teja's Ex!".

Ex? Teja's ex-girlfriend? What is she doing here?


-(to be continued)




Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 24: He is true love! He is a devotee! His Ambition is to have you!

Anvesh saw him showing his teeth to me and he started speaking to Teja, "Teja! Don't bother Ash! Else I will buy a watch for her too!". Anshu heard all that and started laughing. Ganesh asked Anshu what's going on. Anshu passed the movie. Teja stood up, poked Anvesh's shoulder with his index finger and they were laughing at each other. Anvesh pulled him and made him sit on his other side. Vennela was der with the bottle, She handled the bottle to Ganesh and asked why they were laughing. They resumed watching the movie after discussing that and laughing on it. What was exactly happening? I had no clue.  I thought it was best to ignore that and  I ignored all that.

I reached home after all that party and fun. I sat on my sofa and was relaxing. I switched on the television and tuned into a music channel.
Anshu called me at that moment and I took it.
She started speaking, "Ash! Did you reach?".
"Yes! Just now!", I replied to her and was looking at the TV to mute the music. I saw on the screen that a song from the Bollywood movie "Sanam Teri Kasam" was playing. I muted it.
Anshu started teasing me, "Oooh! Listening to romantic songs! Oooh!".
"Stop it Anshu!" I ordered her to stop but she didn't stop.
"Your guy! He is true love! He is a devotee! His Ambition is to have you!". She was filling my head with Teja! I asked her, "Who is my guy?".
She laughed out, "Hey come on Ash! He is good!".
"But you said I should think about Anvesh!" I asked her. She laughed out again and replied, "That is true! But Teja is good too! He feels so good about you! I was happy to know his feelings for you!".
"Why did you start making recommendations for him now! Why don't you just forget about it?" I spoke to her. She laughed. She was laughing for anything I say. I could feel that she is happy and she spoke back to me, "Even if we forget! Teja won't forget! He is determined to make you accept him!". "Hmm! Why do you feel that way! I already rejected him! Isn't it?" I asked her. "Teja totally ignored your rejection. The way he held your hand today! OMG! So romantic and the watch! That's amazing!". I was just listening without any response. I was looking at video from TV and listening to audio from my phone. "Ash! Did you know that the meaning of purple is devotion and ambition! And a purple rose represents true love". I said Uhu! No!. "The watch Teja bought for you!" She was speaking and I interrupted her saying, "Oh Yes! Now I understood! His actions and gifts? Do they mean that much!". She replied with a Yes. I asked her again, "Isn't all this your imagination Anshu?". She shouted at me with a No. "But I didn't see all this! Let's say its all true! How did you understand his gestures!". She laughed out, "Teja called me. He said you are smart but you will never be able to understand his gestures. Because he is not good at words, he asked me to call you!'.
"Oh! Oh! Even you started bothering me! Anshu!". She laughed again and said, "Sorry Ash! If you don't like it! I am sorry! But one thing! If you want to get rid of Teja! You will have to reject him for more than thousand times! That's going to be tough! All the best! And! Remember! Whatever you feel! Whatever you want to do! I will be with you!". She was laughing again. I smiled and told her, "Enough! I am disconnecting!". "Ooh! You just started behaving like Teja!" She was teasing me. "Stop it!" I disconnected her call.

Teja? Anvesh? Someone else? Noone at all? That is my choice! A decision which will affect my future life! I rejected Teja without thinking and he doesn't even consider that! If I want to get rid of Teja, I have to do things as hard as he is trying to reach him. But I don't want to hurt him and I don't want to be harsh with him. How to do this? It is really tough! Things were never this tough in my life! My life used to be very simple. It felt like a puzzle of extreme hard level. And why does my heart rate increase when I hear about Teja! This has been happening from the time I rejected him!


What else is this Teja going to do? What to do with him?


-(to be continued)






Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 23: I made him leave my hand and sat back beside Anvesh!

Speak of the devil and Teja was standing in front of me and was smiling. I didn't respond to his smile. Anshu and Vennela were with him. Teja was trying to hand over a gift to me. I rejected to accept it. Vennela took it and handed it over to me. "This is from me, there is no way you can reject this now!" She smiled and sighed me to open it. I accepted it. Teja smiled and said, "Rejecting things became your habit these days!". Anshu and Vennela were laughing. He left us saying he will catch up with the guys in the kitchen. The guys were cooking for all of us on that special day and they were very busy. Teja must be the supervisor for them as he cooks very well.

We sat down and started unpacking the box. It was a watch. A beautiful watch! Vennela saw that and was saying, "Ooh! Very Nice!" as if she saw that for the first time. I asked her, "But you said, you got this for me!". She laughed out and I understood. Teja was the one who got this and because I won't take it from him, Vennela was just bluffing. She convinced me to keep it. Anshu was silent till that moment, she was thinking something. I asked her what's wrong and she started speaking, "Teja is right! You are really rejecting things these days! You rejected to vacate the penthouse even if you were alone! You rejected his marriage proposal! You rejected his gift!" and she started laughing out at me. I shouted on her to stop. I have to divert these people! I asked Vennela about her new year resolution and it started again, "I will get my brother married to you!". Anshu started laughing at me and said, "Mine too! I will get my brother married to you!". These people won't change! Why are these people so interested in bothering me.

We were in the lawn of Anshu's home for our party dinner. They cooked a lot for all of us. Everything was ready to be served. I sat in a chair. Anvesh was sitting on my left. Anvesh asked me for my hand and he wished me a happy new year. We were roaming in the same house but didn't wish each other a happy new year yet. So everyone started wishing each other. Teja approached me and sat on my right. I stood up. He stood up too. He grabbed my wrist and was looking into my eyes. I was frozen. Why did he hold my wrist? He slowly moved to my front,  transformed his hands into a handshake and wished me a happy new year. I replied back as a reflex, "Happy New Year Teja!". I made him leave my hand and sat back beside Anvesh. Anvesh was smiling at me. I ignored him. And I saw everyone was smiling at me! It was so irritating!

Vennela pushed Teja aside and sat beside me. She was holding the new watch in her hands and she made me wear that on my wrist. And after that, she was showing it to everyone saying its so good!

I was stuck to Anvesh and Vennela all the time. All of us were watching a movie in the living room. I was seated between Anvesh and Vennela. Teja asked Vennela to get some water for us. Vennela didn't want to leave and she rejected. Teja was smiling and complaining to Ganesh, "See! She is also rejecting me!". Ganesh laughed at him and asked Vennela to bring some water for us. She stood up and went into the kitchen with a bad expression on her face. Teja stood up and sat beside me. I was about to leave. This time, Anvesh grabbed my hand and asked me not to go. I smiled at him and sat back in my previous place. Teja was speaking to no one but to himself, "This lady even rejects to sit beside me!". I heard that and told Teja not to bother me. He showed me his teeth!


-(to be continued)





Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 22: My heartbeat raised! It was like my heart was racing to break the world records!

The next day after Teja's proposal! Like every other day! Vennela was knocking at my door. I opened it for her. She brought me breakfast and asked me to get ready for office. She wasn't acting different and it was good to see her. I was getting ready for office and she asked me, "Did you have dinner last night?". I didn't answer her and was thinking.. whether to lie to her. She understood that I didn't have my dinner. She got angry. She started scolding Teja, "This is all because of him. He is causing inconvenience to you. I don't understand what got into him!". I stopped her. And asked her not to speak about it. I mentioned to her that I am looking for a new place to live. She became sad and she told me that I can do as per my wish. Anshu was calling me. I took the call. She was almost shouting, "Are you okay?". Vennela whispered to me that she told Anshu about what happened yesterday. I answered her saying I was all good and I am planning to vacate the penthouse. She said alright.

I was using my free time to browse and visit new homes. I tried to avoid Teja but he was always there on the premises. For the first time after that proposal, when I met him at the building entrance he said hi to me and smiled as if he did nothing wrong. Still, I tried to avoid him as much as possible. But, Vennela was stuck to me all the time. She was like a protection shield for me from her brother. Time passed by and I didn't even realize it was the new year.

We were assembled at Anshu's home for the new year party. The devil, T E J A was also supposed to be there. He brought the cake and placed it on the table. I was seated there. He went away. I was curious to have a look at our new year cake. So, I unpacked it. It was a chocolate heart-shaped cake and has the words "Happy New Year!". Vennela and Ash were overwhelmed to have a look at it.
It wasn't extra-ordinary! Just the usual cake! I almost shouted, "It isn't that special!".
Anshu said, "But Teja bought it! So it is special!". Vennela agreed with her. I was angry. I asked them to stop the nuisance. Anshu sat on my right and Vennela on left.
Anshu started speaking, "Let's speak about it today! You became a zombie from the time Teja proposed you!".
Vennela added, "You aren't eating well too. You didn't get rejected! You are the one who rejected Teja. Why are you behaving so strange?".
Both of them were looking at me. I don't want to speak about that. Anshu and Vennela forced me to speak about it.
And then I asked Vennela, "Is Teja doing well?".
"Do you really want to hear about him?", She asked me back. I was nodding my head hesitantly. She told me that he is happier than before and is behaving like he succeeded in something. He thinks that I will accept him in the future. I was surprised to learn that. Crazy Teja!
Anshu started speaking, "Poor Anvesh! I thought he will get a great partner like you. My wish is just a dream now!".
"What? Why are you speaking all this stuff? But.! I didn't accept Teja!", I told her.
Anshu's eyes became wide and she asked me, "Did you reject Teja for Anvesh? Do you love Anvesh?".
I answered her immediately with a No. She got disappointed!
She declared,  "Now that Anvesh knows about Teja's interest, he will never think about you. I feel sad for him!". I was surprised to know this. Anvesh already knows.
Vennela started speaking, "The day he got rejected by you, he was speaking to Anvesh about what happened? looked like Anvesh was Teja's cheerleader!".
She turned to me, "Ash! My brother is a good guy. He will be lucky to have you. Think about him!". Anshu interrupted Vennela, "Ash! You already rejected him. Please let me know if you are interested in Anvesh! I will take care of the rest!".
Both of them making recommendations for their brothers. It was really irritating. I asked them to leave me alone. They smiled at each other and left me alone for a few minutes.

I started thinking Teja or Anvesh or someone else. Anvesh is an angel! Teja is a gangster! Mr. Arrogant! Devil! But why was I scolding him? He didn't do anything wrong! Other than trying to snatch away my penthouse! But it's his penthouse! He owns it! And then I remembered the canopy shelter and proposal. My heartbeat raised! It was like my heart was racing to break the world records!


-(to be continued)





Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 21: Will you marry me?

We were visiting a food court after the movie. Teja's and my order arrived first. We were seated. Anvesh called for me and asked me if I need something else to eat. I sighed to him that I want nothing and I smiled. Teja was looking at me and he asked, "You like Anvesh very much! Isn't it?". I answered him immediately, "Yes! Everyone like Anvesh! He is an angel!". He smiled back at me and asked one more question, "Do you love him?". I thought for a moment and answered him, "Noy yet! No..! Maybe! No..! I am interested in Anvesh but there is really nothing between us right now.!". Anvesh was approaching us and I asked Teja not to mention this with Anvesh. Teja Agreed.

Few days passed!
We were having fun with each other. My new group of friends, me and a lot of smiles!

It was a Sunday! May be December 11. I and Vennela came back from shopping. Vennela stopped at her home on the second floor to drop her shopping bags. I reached the penthouse and I felt some lights blinking behind the penthouse. I walked towards the penthouse. Teja was seated there with a laptop on his laps. He saw me and kept his laptop aside.
It was really looking beautiful. I could feel the good smell of freshly painted benches. He hung up some colorful lights on the top and placed some bushes around. The place was dully lit and the blinking lights made it feel like a festival.
I looked at him and said, "Good Work! It is beautiful!". He smiled back at me and asked me to sit. We spoke about our shopping. He said he has something to ask me. He wasn't hesitant. He just wanted my permission. I told him to go ahead and he asked me, "Ash! Will you marry me?". He was smiling. I thought I misheard him or maybe he was joking. I enquired him, "What did you say?". He repeated those words again "You heard it right? Will you marry me?". I was sure that he wasn't joking. I could see his facial expression. He really wants me to answer him. He was looking into my eyes. I bent my head and stood up. He stood up too. I could see that he was dressed well and prepared for this occasion. I didn't want to look at him, so I was looking at the floor and thinking. I could see the image of blinking lights on the floor. He planned to propose me today. I wanted to leave that place but I have to say something before I leave. I said in low voice, "No! No!" and I turned to go back. I saw Vennela standing there. She was speechless and expressionless. I don't know what to say to her. Teja was calling me,"Ash! Ash! Ash!" but I ignored him. I left them there, went inside and locked the door.

This thunder struck me from no where! I never dreamt this to happen! I sat on the sofa. For a few minutes, I couldn't think and I couldn't do anything. I realized that I was shivering and was just sitting with a blank head. I thought to call Anshu but I dropped the plan.

I went to my room, was lying on my bed and was lost into thoughts. Teja was so curious about me and Anvesh. I should never have answered him honestly. He should be liking me from longtime. I was a stranger to him still, he treated me just like Vennela. Why did he do this? Who told him that I will accept him? No one ever discussed this with me! Did I hurt him? I said No! So it is clear he is hurting! Tears rolled on my cheeks for hurting him. I wiped them. I realized that Teja was treating me so good from few days. The person who rarely smiles started smiling at me every time. Greets me cheerfully! The person who is always into his laptop or mobile is actually spending time with me instead of doing that. What to do now? I rejected him! How will I face Vennela? How will I share this with Anshu and Anvesh! Do I have to vacate the penthouse now? Did Teja let me stay here because he was interested in me? I opened my mobile phone and started searching for a new place. I was bound to face Teja in future. I can't escape him. What to do? Will he kick me out of the penthouse?


-(to be continued)





Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 20: Why are you laughing Ash! Don't make fun of my brother!

"Why are you laughing Ash! Don't make fun of my brother!" Vennela shouted.
I replied to her saying, "No! No! I am not making fun of Teja! Let me explain! A few days back, I was teasing Anvesh. I told him that he is treating Teja like his ex-girlfriend. He started laughing like a monkey. Now I know why he laughed so much!". Vennela couldn't understand and she asked to explain more.
"Teja was what? 18 years old when his girlfriend broke up with him!". She nodded her head and I continued, "Many things happened because of that silly breakup. Few years passed and if you look back, it looks so silly. That's why Anvesh laughed so much when I quoted ex-girlfriend. Now that I remember him laughing, I can't control my laughter too." I started laughing again. "Vennela! Also your brother! He said that he lost his two best friends instead of saying his girlfriend broke up with him. He was so embarrassed to say that. You should have seen his face back then.".
Vennela was shocked to hear that, "What! Teja mentioned her as a best friend. This is really funny!". She started laughing too and mentioned to me that he never spoke about that in the last seven years. She also told me that Teja always mentioned Anvesh and me with Vennela. He would always say, "Anvesh and Ash are a tough competition! They are always on the top scorer's list. I will beat them next time". That is how Vennela knew me. I felt good after hearing that and I said, "But he never succeeded in that!". We both smiled at each other.

Like every time! Speak of the devil and.. Teja was calling Vennela. Teja said that he got some movie tickets and asked us to get ready. Teja and Anvesh will pick us up in a few minutes. We got ready and were going down by stairs. I asked Vennela, "Why were my friends teasing you at the wedding?". Vennela answered me, "They don't want Teja to be at the wedding! They were asking me questions like why was Teja there? Didn't he know that Anvesh will be here? They were bothering me. Tears almost came out of my eyes and you showed up!".

I realized something and I said these words to Vennela, "I didn't notice this before but you are as sensitive as Anvesh. Isn't it?". She showed her teeth to me and I continued, "I feel like I am holding time bomb, each in one hand. Anvesh in one and You on other. Anyone can explode at any time. I have to be careful!". We started laughing and by that time, we reached Anvesh and Teja who were waiting for us at the car. Teja saw me laughing and smiled back at me. I smiled back at him and I was looking into his eyes. I don't want to look into his eyes. I escaped his eyes. Teja was wearing a light blue shirt and his sleeves were folded. And that was when I noticed him. He is a good looking guy and also a good person. I was just feeling his wrong version till that day.

Teja was driving and Anvesh was beside him. Vennela and I were seated at the back. I was speaking to Vennela and both Teja and Anvesh were able to hear me.
"Vennela! What does your brother do exactly? He is always roaming around without any work. I wonder how he owns this building and car!".
Teja and Anvesh started laughing after hearing that.
Vennela spoke to me, "Oh! Now I know why you call him a gangster? You think he earned a lot as a gangster! Isn't it?". I said yes to her.
Anvesh started speaking, "Ash! You know! Police are looking for him in Mumbai. So he ran away from there and is living here!". Everyone started laughing. And then Vennela told me that he works from home for some UK based investment company, earns well, invests in stock markets and bought the building on housing loan.


-(to be continued)






Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 19: Vennela was curious and I was busy laughing!

She asked me to promise. Promise what? Not to discuss this with Anvesh or Teja. I said ok. She told me only their parents were aware of this and It's better not to discuss it with them.

And this was the real story which happened!
After the results were out. Anvesh found out that Teja didn't qualify in one of the subjects, Teja wasn't taking his calls and wasn't meeting him. So, he decided to meet Teja that day.
And at Teja's home, Teja wasn't leaving out of his room. His mom dad were worried about him. Vennela tried to bring him out every day but it didn't work. After the results were out, they thought that was the reason he was locking himself in. Teja wasn't speaking to anyone. Vennela and Teja's mom were in his room and speaking to Teja. Teja was angry and was shouting "These people have spoiled my life! I don't know how to fix it?". He didn't want to speak.
Anvesh already reached their home and listened to that. He went inside his room and wanted to speak to him, Teja shouted on him too.
"My life is spoiled! I don't want to speak to anyone!".
And then he made all of them leave his room and locked it from inside.
Anvesh left their house. And the next day! Anvesh called Teja many times but Teja didn't take his call. At the end of the day, Teja messaged Anvesh and the message was, "Don't call me again. I don't want to speak to anyone. I am planning to quit college!".
After reading this message Anvesh misunderstood. Anvesh thought that he was responsible for the downfall of Teja. Teja was his best friend and they spent all year together. Anvesh thought that he was the reason for Teja's decision. Because Anvesh was sensitive, he couldn't take the pain from Teja's anger and he tried to give up on his life. Thank God! It wasn't dangerous and Anvesh was admitted to hospital and was getting treatment for his hand fracture.
Teja learned about the incident and visited Anvesh. Their parents let them speak alone and were trying to listen to them from outside. But they both were silent. They sent Vennela inside to make them speak.

Their Conversation was as below...

Vennela: Anvesh! I think you misunderstood Teja!
Teja(Angry and shouting): Yes! You misunderstood!
Vennela sighed Teja to be calm. Anvesh smiled and was listening.
Teja(with calm tone): On the last day of our examination, Shree broke up with me. I couldn't finish the exam because I was angry. I am the reason for my downfall. It's not you!
Vennela and Anvesh were surprised to learn the truth.
Teja: I am sorry for my anger! I shouldn't have caused you this pain.
A tear dropped from Teja's eye. Vennela wasn't clear what to do. Anvesh was embarrassed to speak back to Teja. Teja wiped his eyes and went out. Vennela followed him.

Time passed! Some wrong rumors were spread in the whole college. They were in the same class but in different worlds. Even if they ran into each other, they couldn't speak. Teja didn't quit and they were having a silent competition to reach the top scorer position. Teja was no.3 and Anvesh was no.2. That way, they conveyed the power of their friendship but no one could understand!

Later, Vennela came to know that Teja's girlfriend broke up with him because she found a rich guy and that rich guy forced her to break up with Teja on the last day of examination. The rich guy was jealous of Teja. Vennela doesn't know if Teja knows the truth.

And because of Anshu's wedding, both of them forgot all that and are having fun now.


Vennela patiently conveyed all the story to me. I had no words to respond. Few minutes passed and we were doing some random things like looking into a mobile phone.

I remembered things from the last few days and I started laughing. Vennela was curious and was asking me for the reason. But I was busy laughing.


-(to be continued)






Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 18: No one is living at the house on ... It is for ...!

He made me feel good by listening to me. I should listen to his story too. I was also curious about it.

I asked, "Hey Teja! You can speak more about your college life! I will listen!". I smiled at him.

He kept his laptop aside and started his story, "No one asked me about that till today. I think I should speak. Some wrong rumors were spread in college about me. From that time onwards, no one wanted to be friends with me. I lost my two best friends. I became popular as Mr. Arrogant!" He laughed sarcastically.

I asked him, "But I always saw you with people! You were always busy back in graduation class!".

He continued, "All of them! They wanted something from me but not friendship! It was painful in the beginning, even with a lot of people around.. with no real friends! It felt lonely!". He smiled and continued. "Later, Vennela joined our graduation college as junior and she was always bothering me around. So, it got better!". We both smiled at each other thinking about Vennela. He started using his laptop and I went inside.

I was lying on my bed and was thinking about Teja. From last few days, I have been speaking to Teja well. Maybe he isn't the person I pictured him as. Maybe he is a nice person. Maybe I was wrong about him. I listened to the bad versions of Teja from other people but I have been feeling the good version of him. Later, I started treating him as a friend.

On one Sunday! There were no plans and everyone was just relaxing. I finished my breakfast and was watching TV! Vennela started knocking the door and was asking me to open the door as fast as possible. I opened the door. She was carrying some groceries.
"Ash!" She dropped all of it on the floor. "Come on! Let's cook together!". I smiled and we started cooking. We cooked very good looking chicken biryani and were about to start eating. She clicked a picture and was sending it to someone.
I asked her, "Who are you sending it?".
"To Teja!", She replied. "But you and your brother live in the same house!", I told her.
She laughed out and said, "I became your new roommate and Teja became Anvesh's new roommate! No one is living at the house on the second floor. It is for storing furniture!".
I was surprised to learn that fact. But..!
I remembered the words from Divya. Teja and Anvesh were supposed to stay away from each other but, they are spending time together and are having fun. What is all this about?
"Vennela! Do you know what happened between these two people a few years back?" I couldn't hold back anymore. Very curious!
"Hm Yes! Only I am aware! Even Anshu doesn't know what exactly happened!", She said.
"Can I know?", I asked her curiously.
She started thinking and spoke out, "Now that they are both together and having fun, I think we can speak about it.".
She started eating and was praising our work. It really turned out yummy.
"Before sometime! Teja came to me and said he is going to Anvesh's place. I asked him what to do about our lunch. He said that I can just eat anything and he will eat at Anvesh's place. He must be looking at my picture right now and should be feeling bad for leaving behind. Haha. Thanks for the good food Ash!".
I was looking at her with wide eyes, "Can you tell me the story which I asked for?".
She laughed and started narrating.


-(to be continued)




Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 17: I know how it feels... to be lonely...

I called my mom and asked her to come and live with me. She said she couldn't do that as my father's health isn't good these days. She was giving useless suggestions like come back home, get married, etc. I ignored those suggestions, disconnected the call and started walking behind the penthouse. I was curious about the renovations Teja was doing.

He installed canopy shelter. It wasn't complete yet. The bench was rough still, I sat on it and started looking at the sky. It was really good. I remembered the days I and Anshu spent in that place. Even if the work is not yet complete, this place really became beautiful. I was thinking about Teja who was planning to surprise his parents with such renovations. I was really curious about what could have happened between Teja and Anvesh but who will clarify.

Speak of the devil and... T E J A was standing in front of me. He saw me, apologized and was going back. He was holding a laptop in one hand and two pillows in the other.
I stopped him saying, "You are the landlord! Anyway, I will go inside now!".
He replied saying, "But you are paying me for this area! I should take your permission to be here. I thought you were at the office, so..".
I interrupted him and told him that it's okay and he can sit there. I stood up and started walking.
He started speaking, "You were doing some thinking before I was here, Isn't it? You can continue. I don't want to interrupt you!". He turned back again. This was going nowhere.
I told him that I will sit on one bench and he can sit on the other without any problem. He accepted, smiled delightfully, sat on the bench with one pillow and gave the other to me. I accepted it.

He started doing something on his laptop and I was totally ignoring him. But he wasn't ignoring me.
He started speaking while typing something on his laptop, "Ash! You look so dull? Why?".
I smiled and said it was nothing. He insisted me to share my thoughts if I want to. He said he will listen and was still typing on his laptop.
I thought, "Okay. Let's pour out!" and I started speaking to him.
"I asked my mom to come and stay with me but she couldn't come!'.
He stopped typing on his laptop, stared into my eyes with interest and asked, "Do you feel alone at the penthouse? Is that the reason you asked your mom to come here?".
That was true but I didn't respond and was just looking at him.
He continued, "You are free to leave the penthouse anytime!".
He is trying to snatch away my penthouse again. He could see those words on my face.
And then he started convincing me, "I am not going to snatch away your penthouse. I was just checking if you are not comfortable here. Is Vennela bothering you? I thought you both were getting along well!".
I replied him saying Vennela is my new roommate and best friend.
He insisted me to let him know if there is an issue and said he will help. We sat there in silence for a few minutes. I was lost into my thoughts.

He started speaking to me again, "I am sorry if you feel like I am bothering you too much but I have to say this to you. I know how it feels... to be lonely... I was alone all those years during graduation! It was painful. I will really help you if you have any problem. Just let me know!."
I was feeling good, I was feeling comfortable and I was curious about what happened back then but I didn't ask him. I smiled and assured him that there is no problem.


-(to be continued)





Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 16: What are you? A monster?

Vennela got the job and she was treating me for it. Naturally, others joined us. We visited a food court in a shopping mall for a wide choice. Anshu and Ganesh stopped at a store to do some shopping. Vennela, Anvesh and Teja were looking around the food stalls. I was seated and was relaxing at a table. Teja finished his order and joined me first. A couple along with their little kid sat opposite to our table. That kid was holding a fluffy monster toy. The little kid started staring at Teja and was smiling. Teja looked at him, he ignored the kid and was staring at his useless mobile.

I was determined to teach him a lesson, "Teja! What are you? A monster? Couldn't you respond back to the kid with a smile?". I wasn't speaking to myself. I spoke to T E J A Teja!
He didn't respond to me and was having a blank expression for a few seconds. And then he started laughing out loud.
I insisted him not to laugh like that, the kid may get scared. He looked at the kid and he was still smiling at Teja. Teja waved a hi to him and he started laughing again.
What? Did he get mad? Vennela and Anvesh joined us and Teja was still laughing.
"What happened to you brother? Why are you laughing?", Vennela asked Teja. Anvesh was curious.
Teja started speaking, "She called me a monster!" and he was pointing at me.
Anvesh added to him, "Ash always comes up with suitable names for you!".
"What? There are other names too?", Teja enquired Anvesh. Anvesh was not revealing those names to Teja. Vennela was happy to reveal those for teasing Teja. Teja was still in laughing mode.
He turned to me and was complaining, "Arrogant! Gangster! Monster! You have a good impression of me.".
I smiled at him and countered saying, "You are always trying to snatch away my penthouse and Anvesh!"
Anshu and Ganesh also joined us by that time. Everyone was smiling at me and Anvesh was almost blushing.

We had a good time together!

I was back home and Anshu called me right after she reached. She started teasing me, "My Anvesh! And you both were behaving like future lovers!". We behaved like always. Why is she teasing me? And when did I say My Anvesh? I tried to convince her but it didn't work.

The days were passing by. Vennela became my new roommate. She was spending more time at the penthouse rather than at her home on the second floor. Teja started some renovation works at the penthouse. Eventually! we were running into each other and unlike the other days, he started smiling at me and was greeting me with delight. It was really getting weird around him!

In spite of all these people around me, I started feeling lonely. Maybe because I miss Anshu or maybe because I was living alone at the big penthouse. I was planning to ask my mom to join me here.


-(to be continued)





Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 15: Think about Anvesh!

Anvesh and I were helping Vennela to unpack some of her items. Teja was also der. It was fun together. We were doing silly things and were laughing at each other. Teja told to us that he will cook for us. Vennela stopped him and told him that she is bored with his cooking. He shouted on her "It's better to eat food when guests are here! Not grass!". She showed her teeth to him and he left to the kitchen. I whispered to myself "Gangster!".
Vennela asked me, "What did you say? Ash!".
I couldn't hide my happiness to declare him as a gangster, "He looks like a gangster to me! Your brother!".
Vennela and Anvesh started laughing out loud. And were supporting me "Suits him! suits him! Very much accurate!". Vennela mentioned that this name is more suitable than Mr. Arrogant! Teja heard us laughing and came inside the room. We became silent. He sensed something suspicious.
He asked with keen eyes, "What are you people hiding from me?".
Anvesh answered him with nothing and started laughing at him again. Vennela couldn't control and started laughing again. Teja turned to me and asked if I know anything. I answered with a No. Haha! We dispersed after eating Teja's food.

Next-Day! Anshu and Ganesh had different plans, they were out to meet some relatives.  I called Anvesh and we went out for lunch. Anvesh told me that Vennela and Teja were joining Ganesh and Anshu. We finished our lunch still we were seated at the restaurant and we were discussing what to do next. Everyone else was busy, only two of us and we had the whole Sunday ahead of us. We couldn't think of anything interesting, so we left the restaurant. We were walking back to our place and we saw the hoarding for the new comedy movie. We were planning to watch this movie with others but I suggested to watch it early. I started convincing Anvesh saying others left us here and are happily spending time there. Let's watch this movie and tease them with our review! He agreed!
That movie turned out to be very good. We laughed a lot! After the movie, we went to have some ice cream. We were cracking jokes at each other and laughed a lot.

I reached home and I was relaxing. I heard my doorbell ring. I prayed god! My day was so good, It shouldn't be Teja at the door. He heard me! :D It was Vennela.
"We are back!". She smiled, came inside, sat on our sofa and started complaining "I am so tired and it was so boring!".
I got an opportunity to tease them. "Is it? But I had so much fun today!".
She asked curiously, "Ash! Is it? What did you do?".
I was adding spices to my story, "I had buffet lunch at a cuisine. I ate until I couldn't. The food was so yummy! And then I watched the comedy movie!".
She interrupted me saying, "Weren't we planning to watch this movie together!".
I laughed out loud and I continued, "It was great! We laughed so hard that our cheeks hurt. Later, we had chocolate ice cream with lot of nuts and fruits.".
"I should have stayed back!" She said. I laughed out at her.
She asked, "Who else went with you?".
I answered immediately, "Me and Anvesh!".
She asked, "Only Anvesh?".
I answered, "Yes!".
And she started teasing me, "Ooooh! A date with Anvesh?". She became more curious to know about my day.
"No!" I shouted, "It was just a well-spent weekend with a friend!".
"Are you sure?" She asked me, "You have lunch together, you watch a movie and have ice cream later! Only you and Anvesh! And you say its not a date!". She started laughing. I made her stop and sent her back to her home.

Later, Anshu called me and started teasing me without even listening to my spiced up story. Anvesh must have already told her. After teasing me heartfully, she disconnected the call saying "think about Anvesh". Why do I need to think about Anvesh? He is always in my thoughts. We spent the whole day together and it didn't even strike me that it would be called a date. It was so much fun with him. He is our sensitive angel! It would be really good if someone like Anvesh could be my partner. But, before I make any decisions I will have to check how Anvesh feels or thinks about me. Hmm!



-(to be continued)







Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 14: Is he into mafia? Is he a gangster?

From the next day! After work, I cook dinner and eat. I speak to Anshu and wait for Anvesh's call. He calls me to join him for dinner or to come down. I will find out that Teja and Vennela are with him or he already had dinner at Teja's place. I will tease him and try to get mad at him and then the day ends.

Me, Anvesh, Vennela, Anshu, Ganesh and Teja had a weekend plan together. We went shopping, ate together and played a game. It was fun! All of us together! And the more I see Teja, the more arrogant he gets. He plans to snatch away my penthouse and now he is also trying to snatch away my friend Anvesh. What to do about this? I also wondered how sweet Vennela and arrogant Teja were born as siblings. After that day, Anshu, me and Vennela were a new set of best friends! And I was meeting Vennela and Anvesh almost every day! I also have to mention that Teja just existed.
And that Sunday we were watching movies at Anshu's place and Teja cooked for us. For his arrogance, he cooked quite well.

It was a Friday and the end of October. I started to the office. I saw some box truck parked in front of our building. I asked the security about it. He told me that owners are bringing in their furniture today. I came out and I found Vennela. It looked like furniture belonged to them but I didn't vacate yet. I asked Vennela what's going on. She said they are just moving their furniture and other things to a house on the second floor. I had more questions. I asked her if they were renting that house. She answered saying No. Teja owns it. I asked her satirically "Now! What else does he own here?". She laughed and answered casually, "Only this building!". I had many more questions but I was getting late for the office. She does have a lot of surprises in her bucket.

I was thinking about Teja on my way to the office. He is a landlord for the whole building. How? Such a big building! It has around 14 homes including the penthouse. How did he earn so much? I don't think that he is that rich from the beginning. Is he into mafia? Is he a gangster?

My mobile was ringing and it was Teja. Speak of the devil and he shall appear! OMG! I didn't want to take that call. It seems dangerous.
I took the call, it was Vennela! She said she got an interview call from my office and was asking me for directions. I told her how to reach my office.

It was lunchtime and I was waiting for Vennela downstairs. I was standing aside and instead of Vennela, I met her gangster brother Teja. He smiled at me and said Hi. I said Hi without a smile. I got very hungry waiting for Vennela, can you show me the way to the canteen. I took him there. There were a lot of choices to select lunch menu. He turned to me. "I don't want to waste more time researching this menu!". I responded with a fake smile. "Please order something for me, Ash!" He requested me. Ash! He is calling me Ash as if I am his close friend. Stay away from me! You Gangster! I was speaking to my inner self. I ordered something randomly for him and collected it for him. He started eating and was appreciating me for ordering good food. I was wondering what's keeping Vennela from joining me. He almost finished his food and started speaking to me. Vennela come soon, please! He was asking for details about my job and compensation. Don't bother me Teja, just sit silently and wait for Vennela. I wanted to shout at him but I didn't! And then he started asking me, "Is it fine if we get some renovation done at the penthouse?". I was just listening. He continued, "Only when you are here at work. We won't disturb you and we will keep it clean! I would really appreciate if you could co-operate with the renovations of the penthouse." I thought for a few seconds and said okay for it. After that, thankfully Vennela joined us.


-(to be continued)





Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 13: You are behaving like ...... is your ex-girlfriend!

I was about to sleep and I received a message from Anvesh.
"Hi, Ash! Still awake?"
I called him back. He told me that he got late in the office and he already had dinner. We spoke about his work and I disconnected.

Next day! After work, I cooked dinner and finished it. I spoke to Anshu and I was waiting for Anvesh's call.
He called me and asked me to reach the Chinese restaurant near our place. He said he reached already.
I reached the Chinese restaurant. I saw Anvesh with Teja and Vennela.
I said, "What a surprise!".
Vennela smiled and started speaking, "We have more surprises in our bucket!".
They started eating and Vennela asked me what I will like to eat. I told her that I ate my dinner already.
We were discussing their place of stay. Teja and Vennela are living in a serviced apartment nearby.
Later, Anvesh mentioned to Vennela that we have a job opening in our team. Vennela turned to me and started asking about it. I was curious.
I asked her, "Why?".
She answered me, "I resigned my job recently and am looking for a new one!".
I asked with surprise, "You resigned?".
She said yes. I asked her, "Please don't mind. Can I know your age?".
She smiled and answered me "24!".
"Two! four! 24! But you look so young! I thought you were a teenager." I declared my thoughts to her.
She smiled, turned to Teja and said, "Did you listen to Ash!". Teja and Anvesh smiled at her. I also learned that she was our college junior. Later, I gave her details of the job opening and we dispersed.

Next day! After work, I cooked dinner and finished it. I spoke to Anshu and I was waiting for Anvesh's call.
He called me and asked me to come down. I went down and saw him waiting for me. He checked with me if I had my dinner. I said yes for that.
He wasn't moving and was speaking about some other things.
I asked him, "Where do you want to eat today?".
He replied, "I already ate at Teja's place. He cooked for me."
"What?" I couldn't accept it. And then I remembered Divya's words, "Keep Anvesh away from Teja!". I have to protect Anvesh from Teja but here they are just meeting each other without my knowledge. They are having dinner together.
"Oh ok! New friends! New habits! ok bye! You can go back now!" I turned my back to him.
"Hey! Ash!" He started smiling. "He is a very good friend of mine, we met after a long time. So...!"

I interrupted him, "From the time he came back to you. You are ignoring me. Not only me, but you are also ignoring Anshu. You are always stuck to him. You are behaving like he is your ex-girlfriend!".
He started laughing out. "Ex-girlfriend!" He repeated those words and started laughing again.
A question aroused in my mind "If they had a bad past, why are they stuck to each other like this now?".
I teased him for some time and he went back.


-(to be continued)





Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 12: Ash! I am with you! If Teja bothers you again...

Vennela was speaking, "My dad got retired from his job recently, Teja wanted us to shift to Delhi after my dad's retirement. My parents agreed as their siblings are also living here in Delhi. And then we decided to shift to the penthouse. Teja took the contract papers out to call you people. He left them on the table and went out to take some calls. I was curious and I looked at those papers. I found Anshu's email id in it. I had facebook open, I searched for her and I found her. I learned that Anvesh is a mutual friend for us. After looking more I found out that Anvesh and Anshu are siblings. I was sharing my discovery with my mom. My grandmother looked at Anshu's profile picture and started saying that she is so good. She made me share Anshu's picture and contact details with Ganesh brother's family. My mom asked him to pause the shifting process to penthouse because they were interested in Anshu's profile."

We were all looking at each other's face and were smiling. I was looking at Anshu and Ganesh thinking, whatever the reason could be these both really like each other.

Vennela turned to me, "Ash! While my mom dad were starting for their tour, they told Teja not to bother you until they are back. Still, he is bothering you. I should speak to my parents."

Then why does he want to snatch my penthouse right away? I was wondering.

Teja was speaking to Vennela, "Ash doesn't have other roommates. And finding new roommates for a few months is almost impossible."

I interrupted him saying, "I really want to stay at the penthouse!".

He started explaining to me why he wants the penthouse to be vacated, "Actually I want to surprise my mom dad when they are back. I want to get some renovations done. So.."

Vennela started speaking, "Teja! Mom dad told you something. You follow it! Else I will call them and will complain about this."

He smiled and said, "Alright! Do as you wish Vennela!".

Vennela was happy and she turned to me, "Ash! I am with you! If Teja bothers you again about the penthouse, let me know. I know what to do. And in case if you really want to vacate the penthouse, let me know first. Is it okay?"

I said okay. She shared her mobile number with me.

And then we started making plans for next weekend. Vennela and Teja would be staying here from today. So, they were included in the plan. Vennela, Teja and Anvesh dropped me at my place. It was a great day. I had so much fun.

Next day! After work, I cooked dinner and finished it. Anshu couldn't take my call and I was waiting for Anvesh's call. It was very late and Anvesh didn't call yet. I messaged him but no reply.

-(to be continued)

Authored by Shabbu White

I Have You - Episode 11: I said that he is just 28, isn't it? Twentyyy eightt!!

We arrived at Anshu's place just like yesterday. I was still pretending to be mad at Anvesh. It was fun. So, it's fine. As soon as we arrived, Vennela ran towards me and almost hugged me. She was happy to see me, I could say that. I was happy to see her too.

The party started and we all got busy with the guests. The party was so enjoyable and every guest was happy. And then I was stuck to Ganesh's grandmother. She is a funny person. She was complaining, "Why are you not getting married yet?". I was just smiling at her. And she started narrating her marriage life. She got married at 14. She had four children before she was 21. She was scolding Ganesh for getting married so late. I said that he is just 28, isn't it? Twentyyy eightt!! She shouted at me. Vennela and Anvesh were also listening. She also forced Anvesh to get married. Anvesh was blushing and she was teasing him. Later, she targeted Vennela. I immediately countered her saying Vennela is too young. I think you shouldn't bother your granddaughter yet. She smiled and started saying no one can change these stubborn young people. Vennela thanked me for that.

It was after 4pm, guests dispersed and everything cooled off. I sat in a chair relaxing. Anvesh approached me and started speaking, "Ash! This juice is really good. Try it!'. I said nothing, I stood up and started walking. Anvesh was watching me. I was smiling and I ran into Vennela. I sat beside her and started speaking "Vennela! I didn't see your parents today?". She smiled and was about to answer. Anvesh interrupted us and offered the juice cup to Vennela. She took it and said thank you. He looked at me as if he was teasing me. I smiled at him and he sat beside me. Vennela had a sip and started speaking "My father got retired recently and my parents are out on a long tour".

"Wow! It must be fun." I told her.

She started speaking, "My grandma was scolding them when they were starting for their tour. You are the elder one among my children. Instead of getting these young people married, you people are going on tour. Shame on you people. Think about your age.

Look at your first little brother, he got both of his sons married!

I was listening and it was so funny. I laughed and told her that both of them were elder to Teja. She scolded me for interrupting her. She forgot about the tour and started scolding my father. You are 60 and you are retired. You are not even bothering about your children.

My father told to her that we are grown up and we can take care of ourselves.

And then she said if you are reckless like this, Teja will bring some stranger and will say that I already married her.

Teja heard that and he shouted on my grandma, Padma! Enough for now! Let them go and have fun!

She sat silently for a moment and then started helping my mom with her packing list."

We were enjoying her story and I asked her, "Why is Teja calling her with her name?".

Anvesh and Vennela laughed out. Vennela told me that their grandmother is only scared of one person and that's Teja. The grandmother strongly believes that her husband is reborn as Teja. He has the same face, behaves exactly like him and the same anger. After learning that, I laughed out too.

Teja heard us mentioning him, he joined us and sat beside Vennela. He said, "I think I heard my name!". Vennela laughed and told him that they were speaking about their grandmother.

Ganesh and Anshu also joined us. This was our new group of friends. Everyone was free and happy speaking to each other. It was fun, all of us together. We finished discussing Vennela's / Ganesh's grandmother and Vennnela said she has to tell the penthouse story.

She started and we were all listening.

-(to be continued)

Authored by Shabbu White.