#55 Destiny

"I'm sorry... "the words echoed in Ruchi's mind, rewinding to thirty five years ago! This date, that year, her destiny changed forever!

She recalled too vividly, waiting outside the college gate, patiently first, and then, gradually losing her composure. She must have glanced about a million times at her wrist watch, rechecking on the time. He'd promised to meet her at 5 pm. It was almost 6 and, no sign of him! 

Her mind was seized by a flurry of ambiguous thoughts. Both had discussed with their respective families about their relationship but, met with strict opposition. As a final resort, they'd decided to elope and get married. They were to reach the nearest city by night, followed by a simple, registered marriage next morning and, then calling their families to inform about the same. 

"Did he leave me? Did he decide to walk out on me? What will I do if he leaves me? How will I face my life?" her thoughts were wild and riotous! 

She'd no idea that she was now crying softly, her worst fears taking over her completely! On an impulse, she began running towards the boys hostel; to find out why he couldn't come! Breathless and weeping, she reached the hostel gate, rushing in. There was a crowd at the gate. His roommate saw her and came towards her, an expression of overwhelming sadness on his face. "Ruchi, I'm sorry but, Amit just met with a fatal accident.... ", he broke down. 

The gravity of the words hit Ruchi hard and, with a loud, uncontrollable wail that escaped her, she collapsed to the ground, succumbing to the most cruel turn that would distort her destiny!