Hi my dear readers,

Since I couldn't find a better way to greet my readers, a happy 2019. Here's a little token of gratitude for all the love showered upon. A bonus chapter of AGCL, a sneak peek into the life of our very own, much loved Swasan.

Thank you and Happy Reading. Please ignore errors or typos.

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Swara checked her watch and hoped she would be on time. The pooja organised by her Badi Maa 'Annapurna Maheshwari' went beyond the expected time but she had no complaints. It was for the success of Maheswari Group's new music project 'Sargam' -

It's been 6 months for her blissful wedded life with Sanskaar. Already 6 months? It never felt so with the time flying quickly. Once back from their short honeymoon at the Maldives, they both got busy with respective projects as well as Laksh with his corporate training.

Before going for a formal announcement of 'SARGAM', Swara wanted everything to be perfect. She had been handed over such an important responsibility by Bade papa and she didn't want to let him down. The main intention behind SARGAM was setting up a music foundation which would encourage budding talent in music via corporate sponsorship and collaboration with music institutes letting Maheshwari Group expand its horizons.

It was never meant to be a profitable venture but something would help them set foot in the field of Music, a less explored avenue by business entities.

The best part, she was given complete freedom to plan, execute the project, and of course, she had valuable suggestions, solid backing of family's business experience and staunch support in form of her husband. Ragini joining her given their mutual interest in music was just icing on the cake.

After 6 months of hard work, today her dream would take its flight. She had been nervous from last night but with Sanskaar by her side, who lulled her to sleep with his soothing endearments and kisses, she slept as a baby cuddled up to him. Next morning he and Laksh left early to look over the press conference arrangements. Ragini would join her straight at Maheswari office after a trip to Kanha's temple for a 'mannat'.

"Swara, tu na bilkul tension mat le. Tu bahut ache se karegi. Sab ache se hoga," Sujata Maheshwari, her loving Mother in law fed her a spoon of sweet curd wishing luck post pooja. Now she is on her way to Maheswari Inc.

A ring on mobile distracted her. Ragini. "I am almost there, Haan bas 5 min aur..."

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Maheswari Inc. hadn't been new to her. She fondly recalled the first time, she stepped in and how excitedly Sanskaar took her around for a tour. It felt thrilling to have a cabin designed for self and she absolutely loved Sanskaar's glass cabin.

"I insisted to have your cabin right next to mine, but ...it didn't work or perhaps they were scared, I would stop working if my beautiful wife is just little away from me." He told, grabbing her for a kiss.

"Sanskaar, We are in the office. kisni ne dekhliya tho ? Swara wriggled free and looked around. She was thankful it was on holiday they took the trip, but still, they had Laksh and Ragini on another floor. What if they walk in and...

Her every apprehension faded when Sanskaar pulled out a little remote. One Click, they were shielded much to Swara's surprise. The glass was as clear as opaque one minute ..it was frosted next. Not a single soul in view. Just them, shielded from everyone. Swara looked at him in surprise.

"It's instant privacy glass with adjustable transparency settings," Sanskaar explained with a wink, his one hand sliding smoothly over waist. Swara smiled faintly at the touch of his lips, over her cheek. "You know I never comprise on my kisses, Mrs.Maheswari, not when you are this close to me." He murmured teasingly against her ear.

"What if I demand such glasses for my cabin too, Mr.Maheswari ?" Swara murmured. The prospect of shielded glass definitely was tempting.

Sanskaar pulled back just enough to look into her eyes filled with equal measures of passion and mischief."Why do I sense some not- so- good intentions? What are you planning to do me behind those doors?" He teased her further. He always loved their teasing sessions.

Pressed against him, her arms curled over his shoulders, "Why don't you try and find out Mr.Maheshwari?I might have some delicious secrets "She brushed her soft lips over his neck and heard him gasp. She knows he likes it that way.

And he exactly did what she likes. He laced his fingers through her curls pushing them aside, his eyes raking over delicate features of hers which had her breath quicken. His head dropped down tracing her neck with feathery strokes which had her arching against him, moved up till he could feel her lips.

"Challenge accepted',

A hushed murmur and naughty nibble had their lips coming together for a scorching kiss and what followed next behind closed doors had been their 'dirty little secret'

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She had been a regular visitor and was assigned a team to assist Her and Ragini. They had review meetings to monitor the progress of the project and a few suggestable changes. They had meetings set up with various music institutes worked out some tie-ups ... and much more. It didn't tire her out, instead, the end of every day left her with an exhilarating feeling, a sense of fulfilment. Every night she would snuggle up to Sanskaar and they would discuss the progress, her concerns, which Sanskaar instantly addressed and at other times guided to right channels. It was during weekends the fun came into the picture with 'only family' time ... filled with love, laughter, food and playful teasing movie or picnic sessions.

Finally a smooth ride of life...

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"You are late" He pointed at the watch.

"Woh Mom and Pooja ...you know, "Swara placed her handbag and file on the glossy white desk, casting a look at her husband charming and handsome as ever. It had been a hurried morning which didn't give them much time. In a slim fit dark brown suit, he looked like a chocolate brownie, sinfully tempting.

Standing up from his chair, "You should stop checking me out Mrs Maheswari, if not I might be tempted to do some. Err ..bad things " Sanskaar laughed out as Swara hit him playfully and went on to adjust his tie. Dressed in a simple green linen saree with just a watch, a simple chain and a pair of matching studs, hair tumbling down in short waves .. she looked Simple and exquisite, his beautiful wife.

"I just got a complaint from your secretary that in spite of a reminder, you are not getting out of your cabin. Why is it so Mr.Maheshwari?" Swara asked smoothing his collar and looking up at him with a small inquiring smile

"Well, I was waiting for my lady luck to be next to me." Smiling, Sanskaar brushed a loose strand of hair, but he could sense her nervousness. His hands stroked her back in soft soothing touches, easing up coiled tension.

Swara knew he stayed back for her. He could have chosen to be with Laksh and other executives but that wouldn't get them a chance to have this little talk before the conference and She needed him. Like always she didn't have to say a word. He was here.

Feeling better already, "Don't you think I should be one needing all the luck...What If.." Swara gazed at him apprehensively " I never faced media before, Sanskaar. Ragini strictly told me I have to do the talking part. I..."

Sshhh....

Swara fell silent as he held her cheeks softly, " Kitne tension leti ho tum. Media is just another crowd, Swara. You have nothing to worry. This is your dream project and I know you will do great." His eyes shone with utmost confidence and Swara felt every apprehension fade away as he took her into his embrace, all warm and comforting. Then he wished her luck in the sweetest way possible. He kissed her till he felt her relax in his arms. There was no single tense nerve in her body as she melted against his heat, transported into some other world...into realms of bliss.

The intercom buzzed. Sanskaar pulled back and took a minute to catch his breath. After Swara settled a bit."You know I'll always have your back, Shona." His lips brushed her forehead softly and Swara knew she could take on the world with him by her side.

He linked her fingers with his. " Are we set?"

Swara drew in a deep breath and nodded "Yes!"

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Swara watched Sanskaar with a smile as he took over introduction part and faced media like a pro, all cool and regal. When one of them questioned if this was sort of the family project with daughter - in - laws of Maheswari Group, heading it.

"Well, If you put that way...I don't mind. But that doesn't qualify them to handle a Project. I am extremely glad to share that this project is the brainchild of my wife, Swara Maheswari. She holds an Art diploma in music and a masters degree in management and my sister -in - law Ragini Gadodia has a Masters degree in classical music which definitely puts them in a better place to handle this project efficiently .'Project, Sargam' went through every approval process as per standards of Maheswari group. At Maheswari group We favour talent. We don't hand over projects just like that ...they are earned. This was definitely well earned and they being family is an extra perk, "He added with a charming smile.

Swara wished she could run and give him a bear tight hug. My Hero. He never failed to amaze her.

Later, Sanskaar stood back and watched as Swara went to present the details of the project answering every and any query raised with supreme confidence. Who would believe just before an hour she was nervous like hell? Not a trace ...and she's owning her moment like a rock star. Sanskaar felt his heart swell with pride at ringing applause by the end of the presentation.

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Back at Maheswari Mansion, they had a small celebration...and back in their room, snuggled to each other.

"Sanskaar ..I think your secretary and half of the female population in your office hates me Swara raised a point playing with buttons of his kurta

" Is that a complaint?" He asked stroking her hair lazily.

"No, a compliment. They burn, because I have most dashing, hot, handsome, caring and one in a million husband," Turning to face him, Swara twined her arms lovingly around his neck, "because I own Sanskaar Maheswari."

Sanskaar smiled. He loved this possessive side of Swara. "Well, that's very flattering, Miss Bose." Looking at Swara's expression "Ok! Mrs Maheswari but you know what! I miss calling you by that name." he told her fondly.

"I know .. those days were so much fun.I miss our college days, Sanskaar."

"How about we start over again?" Sanskaar gave her quick peck on lips and since he knows the complaint, his wife would be coming up with about 'short kiss' he turned it into a long one which had them tumbling between sheets in few minutes.

It was in between when they parted for the need of breath. "Where are we going this long weekend? Remember it was your turn to decide." Sanskaar asked nuzzling her neck. Swara giggled as his fingers tickled over her body teasingly.

"Surprise"

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Swara leaned on Sanskaar's shoulders as they took off for a short trip of 3 days. It was a mutual plan. Once in every 3 or 4 months, they would have this little escapade, away from everyone. Just their time and they would choose locations in turns. It was her turn and she wanted to make it special.

Sanskaar had no clue why Swara chose Srinagar but he knows it's for a reason. Something special as hinted by her. They were stationed at a boathouse "Sukoon", set among floating gardens of flowering lotus in a secluded corner of Dal lake, with views of the misty Pir Panjal mountains. A ride on boats and a cup of hot piping Kashmiri tea( Kahwaa) laced with saffron and cardamon at welcome made up all tiredness. A panoramic view of the sunset over the expanse of Dal Lake from their private space was a sight to behold...It indeed defined 'tranquility'

And the nights laced with scorching passion took every chill away.

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It was in the morning, Swara dragged a lazy Sanskaar out of bed . Sanskaar cribbed " Ek tho raat ko sone nahi diya aur subha jaldi uta rahi ho.. Have some pity, Woman. Nahi tho, I will be pressing charges of pati soshan against you."

"Pati Soshan? Really Sanskaar! Swara laughed and poked her tongue out ."Now get up lazy bones and put some clothes on."

"Clothes ? You took them off last night. You know whereabouts better." He grinned.

Seated midst, crumpled sheets with muffled hair all over the place and a lazy grin, How cute did he look. Swara was almost tempted cuddle up back into bed with him and spend a cosy morning...but she didn't have time to waste. She literally had to threaten him 'No kissing 'policy which got Sanskaar out of room in few minutes.

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Standing in the middle of thousand magnificent chinar trees, feeling the caress of morning gentle breeze against the skin and leaves tumbling to the soil in slow grace painting a rout of orange and yellows, reds and golds over ground ...It was a breathtaking sight. He had to agree. They were in Nasim Bagh - oldest Mughal garden.

"Sanskaar, do you remember the day you came looking for me in the library to check on freshers party and you asked me why was I smiling so much?"

Sanskaar nodded. How could he not? The sight of her smiling lost in her own world and he couldn't take eyes off her then...

"I was reading John Keats, 'An Ode to Autumn' and was thinking about this place. Main yaha pehli baar apni graduation main aayi thi doston ke saath and I fell in love with this place. I always thought I would come back here, once again, mumma ke saath... lekin, Itna sab hogaya ki..." Swara paused. Sanskaar held her hand in understanding.

I never thought I would share this anyone ..this memory, this beautiful dream but then you walked into my life. Now If there is anyone who owns all my dreams and whom I would want to share and live my every dream with ... it's you, Sanskaar I wanted you here next to me. I wanted to hold your hand and watch the sunrise, beyond those clouds over the lake and beautiful mountains...just like this. I wanted to live this moment with you." She said smiling through tears gazing at him with utmost love.

He had tears too. Moved by pure, unadulterated adoration and love this girl, filled his life with. It must be a blessed moment he met her ...to have her as a part of his life...not a part.! His life.His Shona.He realised how special this place was to her and she decided to share it with him.

With no words, he lifted their joined hands to his lips murmuring ' I love you'. Those were just 3 words but his eyes spelt more ...what this meant to him.

"I love you too," she murmured back in hazy voice, reading his eyes.

As they stood treasuring each other, that was the moment the first orange hued rays of sunrise kissed them. Holding hands, leaning onto each other, they watched the sun rise over the expanse of lake, painting the sky with a red blush and the warmth of tangerine and the trees shone as if they were wearing golden crowns...

"Isn't it beautiful?" Swara whispered soaking in the warmth of his hands wrapped around her.

"You know what I would say," Sanskaar smiled kissing her softly on her forehead. "Not more than you, never ever. You will always be my sunshine."

And they walked hand in hand into the brilliant gold light ...

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May you have a bright new year and hope you enjoyed reading this little bit.Do let me know

Love and hugs

Lucky