Gaurav Goyal.doc

41
A STORY

Transcript of Gaurav Goyal.doc

A STORY

GAURAV GOYALSelflessness is a good thing but not always, especially, when in loveI pondered over this as I moved slowly in rain towards my home. The rain had already washed away the gel from my hair and like lifeless bodies they lay flat on my head, some of them blocking my view. I used to be so proud of my hairs before, they would always keep standing up like the needles of a porcupine. And now, I didnt even care to push them away from my eyes or to run fingers through them to know if they can withstand the torture of rain anymore. Hands inside my jeans pocket, I walked unwillingly. Several head light flashes passed besides me. I lifted my head to see people returning to their homes. So fortunate people, who have a reason to get home quickly.For a brief second a smile flashed on my face. May be it was a joke. I decided to trust my instincts and looked for the quickest route to my home. I had missed the road. I turned back and moved my legs swiftly. Splashing the water with my shoes, and this time I even moved fingers through my hairs. I would need them if I want to meet her ever again. I wondered how many sorry, I was joking messages she must have sent by now.I entered the house and called my wife Mobile darling, I am home. You got any message for me? This is my family: a working man (thats me), my darling wife, my mobile. And sometimes we are accompanied by my friends, not to forget the loneliness; I call her my 2nd wife.Not even caring to dry my hands first, I picked up the mobile. Tap, tap, tap and tap. Keypad unlocked the message flashed on the screen. I was in such a hurry that I wanted to kill the person who designed such stupid informations to be displayed, thus blocking the screen. No new messageWiping away the water from the screen with my thumb, I sat down on the sofa. More precisely, I actually fell down. Good thing the sofa was there. Oh see, no signal. May be due to rain. I restarted the mobile. Once, twice, thrice, but to no use. I then tried for signal in different room and keeping mobile in different positions.No, nothing. And then the electricity was disconnected. In the darkness I moved toward my bed and slammed my self against many things, but the pain inside my heart didnt let me feel the physical hurts. On the corner of my bed, I sat remembering my whole life. As a movie clip it started running in my mind..She was my classmate for more than nine years. The first time I saw her was in 3rd class. That was my first day at the new school. I was late, as usual. As soon as I entered the premises of school, the warning bell rang. I started running as fast as I could, imagining a mad dog chasing me. A mad dog with huge jaws. This technique was good enough to let me cover up the path to my class in few seconds. The hallway was crowed with students and echoed with their chit chats. As I was entering the class, students were starting to move out to the ground. It was then that the whole world around me stopped spinning.My mind kept telling me that the dog with huge jaws is very near now and I must move fast, but my legs were frozen. I felt someone had poured tons of instant cement mix on me and immobilized me. My heart beat slowed down to the lowest possible count and my eyes refused to blink. May be my mouth was also open with tongue hanging out, but I was hypnotized, Lost in the two most beautiful crystals of brightly shining black marbles impossible to find, I stood there as an idiot until that dog finally bit me. It was enough to snap me out of the spell and I resumed my work.Those crystals belonged to the girl I loved. I always remembered her as an angel. Jet black hairs, long and shining. I wondered if god had created the wind only with the single purpose of flowing through them. Eyes so accurate in size that even a single measurement more or less would have ruined it. Her eyes conveyed her smile more than her lips ever could. Her nose would render pink color in winters matching with the natural color of her cheeks and lips. But more than her lips, I remember her teeth. Its was not that her lips, in any sense, may not make any princess jealous, smile so lovely that may invite the kings, gods and demons to fight for, but, for once, I had seen her smiling with one tooth missing and she looked so cute, her image got printed on my heart. Never ever before I had any idea how could someone look so good with a tooth missing, but she proved me wrong. Since then, whenever I saw any girl child without teeth, my mind would go back in time and sweet memories of her would bring joy and smile on my face.The sunshine filtering through the window made me blind for some time. I didnt remember if the whole night I was asleep or awake. Everything was so blurred that I took it for a dream, but still I felt my eyes burning and whole body sore and aching.

Forget about the last night, I need some rest now

I told my self and pulled up the bed sheet up to my head and got lost in the darkness of sleep.

The mobile rang for the 9th time. I knew she doesnt have the habit of calling so I had ignored all the previous calls. I was still waiting for the message alert tone when the mobile rang for the 10th time.

This time I attended the call. Some 38 miles away, sitting in his big office, my boss was yelling on the other side of the mobile. I could feel him spitting while talking and wiping off the sweat from his forehead with the free hand while words came out of his mouth like bullets from some century old automatic. Lots of noise, but no effect at all.Where the hell are you? This is the 10th time I am calling you. You cant go on a leave without informing in advance. We have a lot of persons ready to replace you. Next time you do the same and you are out.

Sir, with all the respect, here is my explanationI am leaving this job right now.Click I disconnected the call and slammed the mobile against the table top.

My whole world was still spinning around and body felt like ripping apart. I decided to eat something.

From the refrigerator I pulled out the leftovers of previous day. Some spaghetti and a glass of Pepsi would be okay for lunch, I thought as I moved to the bedroom.

Sitting on the corner of the bed, I had just picked up the fork when something came to my mind and I started moving the fork to and fro and then vigorously in each direction. I wondered what would be the best way to kill a man or how to make a man suffer the most before he dies.

Similar thoughts kept coming to me as I pushed the fork inside the spaghetti, rolled it around and brought it near to my face. Wet, dripping and tangled. This is how his intestine would look once I pull them out of his body. The rage and anger was so gripping me that I felt an immediate need to beat up someone.Okay, I will go to the gym today. Definitely

I told myself and tried concentrating on eating.

In the evening I pulled out an old trunk from the closet that I had forgotten about long ago. It contained the part of my life I had once decided never to live again.

As I lifted the trunk in my hand, memories of the past flashed on my mind.

I was practicing in the ring on punching and defending techniques and with several cuts on my lips and cheeks, I was bleeding. The mix of sweat and blood had nearly blinded my when I heard someone walking on the stairs.

Casting a long shadow against the light filtering through the window, she walked towards the ring wearing a white dress with the ends of her long skirt tracing the ground behind her. My hands lowered and my head bent at some angle. My heart started beating in coherence with the sound of her heels tapping against the floor. I was about to wave hand towards her but before I could do that her eyes widened and she raised her hands to cover her mouth. I turned back to see what was wrong when a huge hand moving in right jab formation hit me. It twisted my head round and my body followed the same course, my feet several inches above the floor. With sprays of blood and saliva ejecting through my mouth, I could see the whole stadium spinning about me.I landed on the cold and hard floor with my head and palms hitting first followed by chest and legs.

If you dont pay attention, you will get your ass kicked every time my coach roared pointing his big finger at me.

But I wasnt listening to him. All I wanted to do was to say hi to her.I pushed myself above the floor but my arms were too tired. She was still standing there with eyes wide opened and hands covering her mouth. I used all my strength to stand up. My body was few inches above the floor when a smile came to my lips and my hands collapsed under my weight.

The next thing I remember was that the old doctor holding my nose and yelling This is the thirteenth time you are here with a broken nose. You will get yourself killed if same thing happens again.

This is what you have been saying for the last thirteen times. I murmured as I pushed myself from the stretcher and stood up to find my jacket.

If not for yourself then think of the person sitting outside. What will happen to her if you die? he asked as he washed his hands in the wash basin.His remark penetrated me deeply. I had never thought of it this way.

I pushed the door and walked outside. She was sitting on a chair with moist eyes.

So? How was my fight? I asked as I walked towards her.

Good. Except for the part where you got jabbed. She pushed the words out of her throat as she did her best to hide her tears and subsided her crying.

You know I have been thinking that this fighting stuff is no longer suiting me. I was thinking of finding some good office work that would involve less fractures and more money. Words came out of my mouth without my permission. It was like I was speaking someone elses thoughts.

She looked up at me. I felt that same thing was on her mind too. She stood up and hugged me. Why are you doing this? Its your passion. She said softly in my ears.

Because I have to choose between my life and my passion. And I choose you, you are my life now.

With a deep sigh I pushed myself out of it.

How could you do this to me? I wondered as I slowly took out the contents of the trunk. Finger cut gloves, a heavy dark brown T-shirt specially manufactured on request, camouflage patterned pants and black leather heavy army boots.

Dressed completely in the outfit I stood before the mirror. Inspecting myself, I removed the plastic bands from my wrist and pulled the gloves onto my hand. I was about to move when my hairs got my attention.

I moved my fingers through my hairs to raise some spikes but the hairs were not strong enough now.

Welcome back, Mr. Animal. With these final words I left for my destination.The gym was in the far corner of the city, far away from the buildings and vehicles. Located in the greenery and surrounded with all peaceful things, it was a good place for meditation. But I was not going there to meditate.As soon I entered the gym, went straight to the punching bag and rained it with my anger and rage.

Cool down bro. What happened to your good boy image? the gym owner called from the back.

Hes dead. He never existed. I was fooling myself. I answered as my punches grew stronger.

And what happened to your hairs? You used to look cute in spikes. he asked.

I am not cute. Girls are cute. And I am not a girl, I am The Animal. I answered crushing my teeth and punching the bag harder.

Is that offer still open? I asked him as I turned towards him.

Yeah. But...

Count me in then I cut him short.Okay. Tomorrow morning. Dont be late and bring your full concentration with you this time.

Next morning I entered the fight classes some fifteen minutes late, as per my habit.

Ah, here comes the chief guest. These were the first words of the old instructor as he sized me up.

Get down and do hundred pushups, now. His crushing voice was enough to frighten the whole stadium.Yes, mama Godzilla. I murmured to myself.

When my punishment was over, I went to him.

So when will I start fighting? I asked him.First thing first. You need to build up a lot of stamina and power, only then you can enter the ring. He said avoiding me.

Ive got enough stamina and power. Pick up any man against me and I will beat him. I said.

Oh, so you want to fight? Come then, fight me. He answered pointing towards the ring.

Any time. I entered the ring getting my hands in the punching gloves.

Everyone inside the stadium stopped for a few seconds and then formed a crowd around the ring.

The bell rang and the match started.

I was moving to and fro, left and right to pick up his weak point. But he was standing there like a mannequin waiting for me.

What are you waiting for? Come, hit me. He taunted me.

I charged towards him but he sidestepped and I went straight into the corner. Come on, I am here. He said from the other corner.

I again charged towards him, this time to hit him with my shoulder. He not only avoided me again but this time he also hit me on my head and I fell banging my head against the corner pole.

You are not prepared now. This is what will happen to you if you go out there like this. He said.

Shut up and fight like a man. I challenged him as I stood up.

He took my remarks seriously and raised his hands up to the level of his face.

You are going down this time. I roared as I ran straight to ram him.

He let me come up to him and using my own momentum, he pulled me towards him, thus raising me above the ground. Then he twisted about his heel of one leg and threw me against the corner like a hammer.May be you are one of those heartbroken lovers who come here to loose their anger. But all you can loose here is your teeth. Go back; this place is not for you. He told me as I tried to stand on my feet again.

Who the hell are you to tell me this I yelled back still unable to stand up.

Go back home. Think over what I said. This match ends here. He motioned everyone back to their place.Next morning I decided to visit my friend who I thought would understand me. The drive to his house was pretty uneventful. Most of the road was empty due to rainy season. People must have decided to escape this cold weather by staying at home in the company of their loved ones. Suddenly the whole world appeared as an enemy to me.

It started drizzling and the weather became even more chilled.

I wanted to raise the door glass but couldnt get my hands to do it. The road side scene appeared gripping me. I looked at the moss covered tree standing alone on the road side. Most of them were chopped down and a wet patch of mud was all that remained there telling that a tree used to be there. The trees looked back at me. I could feel them smiling at me, a smile that was full of pity and mercy. A weak smile that one person gives to another person who is suffering the same. I could feel their irresistible desire to break out of their body, their wish to hold their loved one in their arms and to tell them what they mean to their life. I could feel their inability and the pain of the unfulfilled desire to be with their loved ones.

For a brief moment I felt that becoming a tree is the worst punishment that can be given to us. Imagine watching your loved ones standing inches away from you and you cant even touch them. You cant even tell them how much you love them. All you can do is to watch them until someday someone may come to chop her down. No matter how powerful you are you cant even move a finger to stop it. You cant even turn your eyes away from it. And after she has been taken away, you still stand there looking at what used to be the place of your love. You cant even cry to reduce the pain and for the rest of your life that portion of the loose mud becomes your companion.

I can imagine how you feel. Words came out of my mouth.

My melancholy came to a screeching halt along with the car when a couple on Harley-Davidsons overtook me from the wrong side. My first reaction was to overtake them, stop them and inject some sense in them. But somewhere from inside my memory lane an incident popped in front of my eyes.It happened approximately a year ago. It was her birthday. We had planned to go to a place of my choice.You would love it, believe me. I assured her. I will be there in fifteen minutes. With this I disconnected the call.

I parked my Harley Davidson in front of her house. I was dressed in black three piece coat and pants formals. Even my hairs were settled down to match with the outfit. Standing against my ride, I waited for her to come. It was already dark and light from a light pole illuminated the corner of the road from she was supposed to make her entrance.I kept gazing straight at the corner when the shadow of someone coming became visible.

I stood up and started walking the same direction to greet her. I had hardly walked some distance when she reached the corner.

Dressed in killer red dress she stood there, her hands folded against her waist to avoid the cold. Flocks of hot air ejected from her pink lips as she breathed.

The flickering yellow light from the light pole in combination with the uneven fog that surrounded her was making her even more lethal.Some of her hair locks were covering her cheeks. She jerked her head slightly towards left to push them aside. Once this done, she looked at me and smiled.

I was still standing some where between her and my ride, wondering how many couples would break up tonight due to the boy looking more at her than his companion, or even worse, how many accidents would occur because the driver was not able to focus on road due to her.I drove my bike as fast as I could, jumping the signals and overtaking from all the wrong sides. It was not that we were getting late or any thing else but I wanted her hairs to keep swinging in the air.I stopped the bike at the foot of a small hill.

Come fast. I told her as I held her hands in mine and rushed to the top.

When we reached the top there were two chairs and a table placed at the edge of the hill. In the dark, the image of a person was visible arranging the food and drinks on the table. He looked at us and after giving a last look at the table, nodded and left without a word.

So, this was your great idea? Dinner in dark? she asked with a frown forming on her forehead.

I ignored her remarks and took her to the chair.

Sit. I said and pulled the chair.

I took the seat in front of her and settled looking at my watch.

She took the glass of drink and pulled it near her lips asking, What are we supposed to do in this dark? I cant even see you.

I had just opened my mouth to answer when a ray of light fell on her face.

She turned her face in the direction of light. From the canopy of dark black clouds emerged a thin crescent moon of pure white light. The whole arrangement now became visible. We were sitting just inches away from the edge below which a sea roared. The waves that originated in the water reflected the light and appeared as the collection of brightly shining silver fishes jumping with joy. The water current that crashed against the rocks at the bottom of hill broke into tiny droplets and sparkled like tiny diamonds in the air. Even the sea became quite and the splashing of water against the rock turned into melody.

I looked in her direction to get her opinion. She was still holding the glass near her lips. Her lips were pouted in the anticipation of drinking. The light that fell on her lower pink lip shone as a pearl shines in the sunlight. Her eyes sparkled with joy and amusement.

Beautiful. I said.

The train of my memories ended as soon as the rain turned heavy and the cold water nearly numbed my hand and face. I looked at the tees for the last time and pulled up the window glass.I want to cry. These were my words as I entered my friends house and hugged him.

Why, what happened? he asked rather worried.

Theres so much going inside me, I cant take it anymore. All the time I am filled with anger and pain. I dont know what to do. I am boiling inside. All my emotions, my all feelings, everything is trying to get out. I feel like my head would explode any time. The more I try to push them away the more I get into them. I am trapped in this hell. Please help me. I pleaded to him.Is it because of her? he asked.

Yes. She loves someone else. She left me. Asked me to forget her.

He caught me by shoulder and helped me sit on a chair.

He then pulled a chair near me and settled in that.

I had already told you he continued, That girl was a bi.aahhh!!!!!Dont you dare speak such things about her. When I had completed my sentence I realized that I was holding him several inches above the ground by his neck.

I looked into his eyes. He was terrified but still worried about me. I lowered him and sat back into my chair.

After massaging his throat for sometime he spoke, Okay, I got it. She kicked you out of her life but you still love her.

Yes. I squeaked, not able to raise my eyes to meet his.

And this is making you angry and painful. He inquired.

May be, probably. I tried to answer.And you come to me to cry? What happened to the person I knew? She left you, now you make sure she regrets her decision.

How? I asked him raising my eyes towards him

Why dont you use your anger and pain to your benefit? Think of it. I know you can come up with some thing. He said as he sat down in front of me and handed me a bottle of drink.

I gulped some of the contents thinking deeply about what he said.

Thanks bro. You are great. I stood up to leave.

Where will you go now? he shouted from the back.I have a fight class today. I dont want to be late for that. I answered as I got in my car.

When I entered the class, it was empty. Only the instructor was there arranging the bags.

He looked at me and said, Today is holiday. Come tomorrow.

I have something to tell you. I continued. You were right. I am a heart broken lover who came here to loose anger.Good. His response amazed me. A person with broken heart will destroy anything that stands in his way. You got power, I saw it yesterday. But whats your technique?

I break bones.may be this is my technique. I answered sheepishly.He smiled and said, Lets improve it then.

ONE YEAR LATER.In the corner of a small cell with lots of mirrors, lay a wooden bench laden with white towels, water bottles and glucose. On the other corner of bench, I sat, staring at my own image in mirror. My instructor sat in front of me wrapping my hand in white tapes.This is the last match in this tournament, champ. You win this and we win the whole tournament. He said.

In that case you should be preparing for the party tonight. I answered rather smiling.

Dont be so sure of that champ. Your opponent is very skilled and powerful. If you miss any chance of hitting him, he will kill you. He tried to warn me.No one can kill me now. Im already dead. I said looking away from him towards the window.

You havent forgotten her yet? my friend asked as he entered the cell. You know its her birthday today. He completed his sentence as he came and stood by my side.

Should I wish her then? I asked him.

You havent wished her yet? You are so callous. At least just as a friend you should have wished her. He scolded me like a teacher.Okay. I will wish her after the match. Remind me of that.

Outside our cell, the whole stadium was on an uproar. People were shouting and cheering. Banners and hand-written cardboards were covering most of the stadium. The smell of adrenaline and cigar smoke covering every inch of the hall.Amid the noise, the match commentators, Gary and Mike were delivering their views about the upcoming match.You know Gary; this match is going to be very unique.

Whats so unique in this match Mike?

Well Gary, at one corner we have The Destroyer. He had displayed very interesting fights throughout this tournament. He is a good blend of power and technique. But on the other corner we have The Animal. Brutal power and unbeatable stamina. All his fights in this tournament have ended in pools of blood all over the ring. He had not shown any mercy to anyone. Its like a battle between courage and skill.

Theres one more thing about The Animal, Mike. Sources have given the information that he sleeps very less. Yes Gary. My sources told me that he dreams about some person every night that he is trying to forget. Probably a girl that he may have loved.

Love sure can surely kill a person Mike.

With this last remark, all the lights of the stadium were turned off. All the spot lights now on the entrance of the fighters.From deep inside my cell, a narrow passage was made up to the arena. Walking through it I felt like a lion coming out of his den. Just as I stepped inside the arena, a whole sea of people extended their hands through the security railing to touch me.

The crowd was mostly youth containing considerable amount of female fans. One of the girl, may be in her teens, tried her best to reach me. But when she couldnt, she cried loudly, LOVE YOU.These words instantly got my attention and I looked at her direction.

When she realized that I had actually heard those words, her face turned red with embarrassment along with a sweet smile on her lips.I kept looking at her and her humiliation appeared familiar to me. It rekindled an old memory inside my head. It happened when we were in school. That was our outdoor class. The physical instructor wanted us to warm up before we could start playing. So, he asked us to make a round circle and jump for five minutes. Fortunately or may be unfortunately, she was placed diametrically opposite to me. And I couldnt help but look at her.When the instructor blew the GO whistle, we all started jumping.

The dress of girls included a long skirt.But still, as expected, it would go up when the girl would jump.

She had just started jumping, when a light wind blew and her skirt went some extra distance.

Lowering her skirt down, she looked around and saw me looking at her.That was the time I could feel my heart beating like a bongo drum. I could feel my face turning red. I moved my eyes away but still a short smile crossed my lips.

In embarrassment I cried loudly, Sir, I need to go to washroom, now.

Every one stopped jumping and started looking at me, for they knew that the instructor would definitely punish me now. Some giggles and smiles came from the students.

The instructor walked up to me and stood before me like some army general.

You wish to go washroom? he asked as if he was asking my last wish.

Yes sir ... yes. I uttered meekly.

Sure. You can go washroom after you have completed five rounds of the ground.

He then turned around on his feet and marching away thundered, The rest of you may start playing.

My plan had worked. The jumping drill was cancelled. She wouldnt have to worry now. I consoled myself as I ran the premises of the ground, in which now she enjoyed the game happily with her friends.

Hey champ! What are you doing? My coach cried from the back.I looked around. For once I felt I was dreaming. I felt like millions of bees were buzzing inside my head. Standing in the middle of the ring, I was facing The Destroyer. Crowd surrounding the ring was shouting and yelling. The match referee was talking something about playing like gentlemen.

Looks like The Animal is lost somewhere. The commentator Mike made a comment.I gave Mike an angry and cold stare at him for long enough to make sure he wouldnt pass such comments again.

Mike, he is angry today. Better you stay away from him. Gary giggled as he teased Mike.May the best man win. The Destroyer said as he forwarded his hand to shake mine.

You should have better stayed at home today. I turned around to my corner, completely ignoring him.

Both the fighters are in their respective corners now. Mike, did you notice that The Animal rejected the offer of The Destroyer. Looks like The Animal came here with no emotions at all.

No comments Gary. Oh look. The match has started. Both the fighters are looking terribly seasoned and concentrated.

Oh, theres an advance by The Animal. He is trying to jab him. But The Destroyer managed to avoid it.

The Animal is always very aggressive. Attacks first, every time. But The Destroyer is more tactical. He waits for a good moment and then takes complete benefit of it.And there is another advance by The Animal. This time he grabbed his head. And The Animal threw him in the corner.

And here comes the right jab, followed by another right jab and now a left one.

A punch to the ribs and once again a left jab. Another punch to the ribs.

The Destroyer pushed him away. And the round one comes to an end. The referee tries to stop The Animal. The Animal is very raged now.

Yes. But The Destroyer looks very calm. Both the fighters going back to their corners. What do you think Mike? How long will this match go?

I would say nine rounds, Gary. See The Animal tries to end match very soon with his brutal power whereas The Destroyer ends the match with his punching techniques. Both the fighters have at least one thing in common.And the second round starts with a bell. Both the fighters coming back to the center. The Destroyer moving around swiftly to avoid any direct hits from The Animal.

The Animal looking a bit uneasy. He is not used to this moving around. He likes to throw his opponent in the corner and then punch him until he breaks up.

The Animal is looking tensed. May be now he will start running after him? What do you thin...Oh no. The Animal grabbed The Destroyer. A punch to his ribs.

The Destroyer got a fracture. His ribs are fractured now. The Animal pushed him in the corner.

Here comes what this entire crowd wanted to see. Brutality, blood and more brutality. The Animal is punching The Destroyer in the ribs again and The Destroyer tries to block the punches with his arm. How long would he survive this torture?Look The Destroyer pushed The Animal away. The Animal is unsteady now. And here comes The Destroyer. Left jab on The Animal.

Oh my god!!! Looks like the nose of The Animal got fractured. He is not looking good.

Look carefully Gary. Both the fighters are unsteady on their feet. The Animal has had a lot of broken nose cases. But the broken rib is completely new experience for The Destroyer.

So looks like The Animal would be able to bear the pain while there are chances of The Destroyer to collapse.

From my narrowing and darkening vision, I could see the destroyer about to fall. About the same time I could feel myself getting unconscious. I felt a damp and heavy impact on my back. My legs were no longer holding me. The only thing now visible to me was the roof of arena. Laden with many lights that were piercing my eyes, I could see the whole roof spinning round and round and finally I felt like entering some tunnel. Even the noise of the crowd and commentary was getting fader and shallow.

Both fighters are down Mike. What happens now?

Well first thing is that they will be taken to ICUs. This tournament cant have an end like this. If both the fighters come out to be alive and fit for fighting, we will surely witness a rematch.

What a rematch?

Yes, you heard it correct people. We will have a rematch. Make you sure you get to see it. There will be more blood and brutality when these two fighters will avenge their broken ribs and nose.

The sound of beeps and people whispering grew stronger and clearer as I tried to open my eyes. I found myself lying in a small bed surrounded with a lot of machines and people in white dress.

A person with torch in his hand came near to me and with another hand forced opened my eyes, one by one, and shining the light in them.

By now I was aware that I was in a hospital. I felt my nose with my hand. It was covered up with many layers of dressings and plaster.

The person with the light said, You are lucky that your nose has now developed a habit of breaking. Otherwise you couldnt have survived that blow.

I held his face with my one hand and pushed him aside with my full force. He fell against the table full of medical instruments. Where is he? I will tear him apart. How dare he break my nose. I cried loudly as I tried to remove the pipes and needles running inside my body.

By now, most of the medical squad was inside the room. Several male nurses held me back to the bed.

Tie him up. Use the belt. The doctor ordered the rest of the team as some people helped him get up.

Leave me. The match isnt over yet. Ill break every bone in his body. I kept on yelling as they tied me with the belt.

My friend was standing at the gate when I noticed him.

What are you looking at? I thundered at him.

Its a letter. From her. He replied with a heavy voice.

What she wants now? I was still busy in freeing myself from the belt.

She is dead.

I took some time to understand what he meant.

What? was all I could speak at that time.

She died about a week ago. She wanted this letter to reach you today. He said.This time I could feel that the heaviness in his voice was due to crying.

What happened the day you two broke up? he asked me.It was her birthday that day and I was getting ready to meet her. She messaged me to ask what gift I was bringing for her. I said plainly like some answering machine looking away at the distance.And then she told you that she wanted something special from you. She asked you to forget her forever because she loved someone else. He completed my words.

Yes. I replied.

She wanted you to start hating her so that her death wont kill you too.

What do you mean? She knew she would die? How? I was puzzled and lost now.

She was diagnosed with cancer in the last stage. Her death was inevitable. She wanted you to learn to live without her. She knowingly chose her birthday to carry out her plans because she knew you would do anything to make sure her birthday remains a happy moment for her.

For some time I felt this whole setup was a joke. Everything, including this world, the doctors, hospital and myself.

I felt I was the lead character in some really bad joke that was not going to end soon.

And then I started laughing and looked at the corner like some mad man.

She knew I would accept her birthday request without any complaint. She knew I wouldnt bother her by asking why she is doing all this because it was her birthday. She knew I would do anything to make sure she gets what she wants on her birthday. I said in laughing tone and looking sad at the same time.

She did it for you. She wanted you to live without her. My friend started coming near to console me.

Live without her? Do you call this living? I died every single time I breathed without her. She should have allowed me to die with her. That way, my life would have been much happy. I shouted at him.He stopped some foot away from me.

I looked at him and spread my hands towards him pointing at the letter.

I looked at the letter. It was her handwriting. I had no intentions of going through what it said.

I felt intense burning on my cheek. I ran my hand on that spot.

A huge cut from the match was still open and bleeding, but the burning was due to something else. I traced the wet area and reached my eyes. They were leaking.

I was crying and the tears were entering the open wound. For the first time in one whole year I felt some pain. I realized that the belt was very rough and tight too. My nose pained like hell.

And all this time I thought that I was the one who made a selfless sacrifice in the love. I cant even imagine what she must have gone through to do all this Similar thoughts came to me and filled with guilt and shame.

I closed my eyes and could feel more drops of tear running down my cheek.

The letter was still in my hands. I felt the texture of the paper with my thumb. It was damp and weak. Someone must have poured buckets of water on it or may be it were her tears.Ladies and gentlemen, we welcome you to the rematch of the final fight in this tournament. Mike cried loudly in his microphone as the crowd went mad.

In the midst of huge yelling and crying, the two fighters came to the ring.

Mike, you think they have learned something from their previous fight? I mean will The Destroyer try to avoid the punches to his ribs? Or will The Animal protect his nose? Gary asked Mike as the fighters removed their cloaks and got their gloves inspected by the match referee.

I dont know about what tactics these rivals would adapt but there have been tremendous changes in The Animal Mike told Gary.

Tell me about it Mike. What changes are you talking about?Well Gary, there are reports that The Animal is learning techniques and will rely on them more than his brutal power now.

You mean he will not beat his opponent to death now? Watching him beating the opponent made it a really good show.

Hold on Gary, theres something else too.

What is it Mike?

According to his trainer and friends, The Animal now sleeps peacefully and wakes up smiling. He remains less aggressive and is giving more time to visiting old friends and family.

Whats the cause of it Mike? You got any inside information?

No inside information Gary. But to make a guess, I would say that he got his lost love back.You mean the girl he was trying to forget has come back in his life?

Before Mike could have said anything, the match started.Round by round the match reached its end. Both the fighters were still standing on their feet and determined to win, but their power was exhausted by now. Their sweat and blood covered every single inch of the white ring floor.

This is the last match Gary. Just feel the tension in the air. You wouldnt wish to be in their shoes now.

Yes Mike. I cant believe we are in the fifteenth round. It is the longest match in the tournament. People have stooped moving from their chairs. They have eaten their whole finger in the excitement and tension. Feels like we are on the frontline and the third world war is about to begin.

The reason is obvious Gary. The Animal is not playing his game. He is maintaining distance and using techniques instead of power. On the other hand The Destroyer doesnt want to expose his ribs to The Animal. He is playing defensively.

And here starts the last round. As soon as Gary completed his words, the

Tuuunnnnnnnnn sound of the metal striking against the metal echoed in the stadium. Although it was completely packed with people, the silence in the stadium was chilling and frightening.

I stood up from my stand in the corner and went to the center.

The Destroyer stood in front of me, completely drenched with sweat. He was not able to open his eyes. Shaking on his feet, he adjusted his head so that he can have a good look at me.

I was not in a better condition either. The blood and sweat had clouded my vision and the arms were about to fall off my shoulder. My chest and abdomen pained at the places he had punched me. However, so far I had avoided any blow to my nose. But still, my cheeks were wounded terribly.

The last three minutes of the tournament have come Gary.

The fighters have mounted their hands. No one is going to give up easily.The Destroyer is trying to move around The Animal in search of opportunity. But The Animal is not going to give him any chance.

Oh no. The Destroyer is unsteady on his feet and he slipped, giving The Animal a great chance.But whats this? The Animal is giving him a chance to get up. I believe that The Animal will regret this.The destroyer is having some problem with his balance. I think he is completely exhausted.

Yes, you are right Gary. Brutal power or not, The Animal still has a lot of stamina and endurance which is helping him remain agile. The match is looking very one sided now. The Destroyer is not even standing properly, and The Animal seems to be in the winning position. He got a lot of time and opportunity to avenge his broken nose.

Looks like The Animal agree with you. He had pushed The Destroyer against the corner. The Destroyer is defenseless, he is not even raising his to block. It seems he is terribly tired and exhausted.

The Animal is moving towards him.and a right jab and another right jab. The Destroyer blacked out. The Destroyer has fainted. The referee tries to intervene, but the punches of The Animal have not stopped yet.

Tannnntannnn..... tannnnnn

And the match ends here with the bell. Its a knockout. The Animal won. The Destroyer is still down. He is unconscious. The doctors are rushing to his aid while the security tries to hold The Animal away.

Doctors are examining The Destroyer while The Animal is being given the award. Looks like The Destroyer was lucky. He still got his ribs and nose alright, thats what the doctor are saying.

After some first aid and treatment the The Destroyer came to his senses. He was lying on the stretcher looking at me. I was standing at some distance from him holding the award money cheque and the belt of the tournament. Suddenly I felt that something was missing and the match was not over yet. I still got something else to do and I started walking towards his stretcher with a purpose on my mind.

Amongst the cheering and shouting of the crowd, I moved towards him as the security tried to stop me.

Whats wrong with The Animal? Mike shouted in his microphone as I made my way through the security guards.

May be he wants to avenge his broken nose, Mike

The cheering and shouts of the crowd turned into low whispers as I neared his stretcher. They were not sure what was about to happen next.

Its unbelievable Gary. Never in the history of the fighting tournament have I ever seen such a scene. Mike was standing over the table as he tried to look over the heads of crowd.

Gary joined him on the top of the table. The Animal is giving a new meaning to this fighting business. This is how a fight used to end in the times of great and honorable warriors; The Animal is bringing back that tradition.

As the people tried to understand what was going on, I was already standing by his stretcher. This fight was fabulous. Your techniques are superb. I may have won today, but I still got a lot to learn from you. I told him as I extended my hand towards him.

He immediately took my hand in his hands, and shaking them warmly said, But I dont want another rematch.

I smiled at him as the doctors and medical squad carried his stretcher away.

Get well soon. I cried as he was loaded in the back of the ambulance.

Where are you going champ? We got a party to attend tonight. My trainer called me from the back as I was moving out.

I cant. My wife would be waiting at home.

The crowd heard the whole conversation and comments started coming.

Is he married?

When he got married?

Who is he married to?

He cant be married. He still lives alone in his house.

His wife didnt come to see his fight?

I am telling you he lives alone. He is not married.

I looked at the puzzled crowd and gave them a last smile as I moved out.

The road was wet due to rain and empty. I was walking alone as the glare of something shining strongly on the road caught my eyes. I looked up and found it to be the reflection of the crescent moon coming out of the clouds.

The sky was cloudless and the stars twinkled as if they were giggling.

I looked directly up towards the sky searching for her star.

She would be very happy today. I told my self as my eyes locked on the most twinkling star.

I moved my hands out of the jeans pocket and hung them loosely some distance from my body. My fingers were spread wide open and eyes were closed as I tried to feel her near me.Tears emerged out of the closed eyes and my legs collapsed as I kneeled on the road.

So, how was my fight? was all I could push out of my throat.