February 2016, Newtown, Kolkata
‘Can we meet this evening? It’s crucial,’ I texted Vikrant.
‘Certainly,’ he answered.
‘Where? In Victoria Garden?’
He responded with a palms up, ‘Done.’
Four months had elapsed. Vikrant and I found our friendship growing stronger and deeper. We supported each other through life’s challenges, celebrating victories and sharing moments of joy. Our bond became unbreakable, defying the tests of time and circumstance.
But beneath the surface of our friendship, something was changing, though we didn’t speak of it openly. In the stolen glances, the gentle touches, and the warmth of our companionship, I began to feel a connection that transcended friendship. Vikrant’s
100 In the Arms of a Soldier laughter became music to my soul, his smile lit up my world, and his presence filled my heart with warmth.
I noticed the way his eyes sparkled when he spoke about his dreams, and how his touch sent shivers down my spine. Vikrant, too, began to see me differently. My unwavering steady support, my kind heart, and my infectious laughter had woven their way into his being. He realized he had fallen in love with the girl who had been his shield, his confidante, and his best friend.
Yet, we both hesitated to acknowledge these newfound feelings. We feared that moving from friendship to romance might jeopardize the trust and understanding we had built over time. Our hearts silently longed for each other, our souls yearning for a love that went beyond friendship. We were caught in a delicate dance, afraid to disrupt the harmony we had nurtured.
Eventually, I decided it was time to find answers. Love has a unique way of making you see your partner as someone truly special. You focus on their strengths, cherish the small precious moments, and feel emotions like possessiveness, jealousy, and a fear of losing them. Deep love brings empathy, the ability to feel their pain as your own, and a burning desire to do anything for them.
When you are deeply in love, your relationship transforms with emotional and physical intimacy, a passionate connection, and a thirst to know everything about each other. Vikrant and I were on the verge of discovering this profound love, but we had to overcome our hesitations and fears to embrace what our hearts truly desired.
‘You can’t live without Vikrant because you love him. Accept it,’ advised my inner voice.
But what would he say in response? I had two ailments: 1. If he responds ‘yes,’ I’ll jump up and down and hug him tightly all day.
2. If he rejects me, I will never think of it ever again.
…
‘Hey, Good evening.’ I sat next to him. He responded by wishing me good evening.
‘So Prana, why did you want to meet me today?’ he asked, which really made me feel uncomfortable. I was already anxious, and now I was even more anxious.
I mustered all my resolve and said, ‘I just want to tell you something.’
‘Let’s go,’ he said.
‘Actually,’ I said, unable to speak. I lost my entire script.
‘What’s the matter, Prano?’ he enquired. My stomach fluttered like a butterfly.
‘Vikrant I think.. I think. I feel as if I love you.’
Long periods of stillness.
‘Are you serious?’ he asked, breaking the ice.
‘Indeed, Vikrant. I love you.’ I said, ‘You are the one I want to share the rest of my life with.’
I’ve finished now. Nothing further. It could be regarded as the worst proposal ever. But folks, remember that he is not an average person. A Para Commando, and my best friend, he is.
Consequently, you could understand why I was anxious.
He said, ‘Prano, I love you too,’ which allowed joy to enter my heart. ‘But,’ he continued.
‘But what?’ I questioned. He got up.
‘I care deeply for you, Prana. I don’t want to see you suffer in any way. Being the spouse of a military person is far from simple.
It completely changes your life. There won’t be any consistency in our lives if we get married. I’ve mentioned this before, but it’s important that you understand. My duty often involves dangerous tasks, and I can’t predict how much time I’ll be able to spend with you.’
The gravity of his words hung in the air. Vikrant tried to protect me from the heartache and uncertainty that military life
102 In the Arms of a Soldier could bring. His love for me was evident, but he also understood the immense challenges we would face if we chose to be together.
It was a difficult decision, and the reality of it was far from the romantic fairy tales we might have imagined.
He turned to face me, his eyes filled with concern. ‘Pranali, this isn’t a fairy tale. It’s the reality of military life. My father, Captain Vikram Shergil, was a former army commander. I saw how my mother endured during his missions. She would stay up all night, sometimes going without eating. She cried endlessly. I don’t want you to go through that, Prana. What if I go on a mission and never come back? What if….,’ I felt necessary to shut his mouth. So I sealed his lips with mine. Yes, you were correct to guess.
Our first kiss.
It only lasted for four to five seconds. But a first kiss is a first kiss. I was happier than ever as a result.
‘I completely understand if you need some time to think about this. I just couldn’t hold back my feelings any longer. Vikrant, you’ve always been by my side, supporting and understanding me like no one else ever has. You’ve been my best friend, and now, I want to take our relationship to the next level. I want to be more than just a friend; I want to be your partner, the one you confide in, and the person who loves you with all my heart.’
‘I need some time to sort through my own feelings. Can you give me that?’ asked Vikrant. I nodded, a small smile gracing my lips.
‘Of course, Vikrant. Take all the time you need. Just know that whatever you decide, our friendship will always be the base of our relationship. I’m here for you, no matter what.’
