Bad Mother

"Keya, Keya, get up, mummy is getting late for office" screamed Rushali at her ten-year-old daughter.

"Five more minutes mummy" she requested.

"I have a client presentation today. Get up and have your breakfast. I know your exams are over and you are on a holiday but your poor mom has no holiday except Saturdays and Sundays, so please get up beta" she coaxed her.

She sat up on the bed, the hair ruffled and she looking cute in her night dress, she was the apple of rushali's eyes. Ever since her husband Mohan expired, she was single handedly bringing up Keya. Her in laws had made all allegations at her that she was responsible for her husband's death.

Actually, she was on the driving seat 5 years back when they were driving back after watching the movie. As luck would have it, they met with a fatal accident which cost them Mohan's life while Rushali escaped death. Keya had not accompanied them so she was safe.

Rushali had cried a lot on his death. More so with the allegations that were made on her, it forced her to step away from her in laws and stay at a rented apartment in the heart of delhi.

Keya was an independent child since a young age, she was capable of looking after herself and Rushali had appointed a full day maid who took care of her house and Keya in her first absence.

Life was going on fine until one-day Rushali announced that she was thinking of marrying again.

She was in a relationship with a colleague of hers who was younger in age. She had reasoned with Keya the pros and cons of having a man in their life but she denied to accept Rahil in their lives.

"Mummy I don't need a dad. You are my mom and dad both" she cried.

"I agree Bachcha, but I also need companionship. I can't stay alone for the rest of my life. Just try to understand" she told Keya.

Even her house help Kumari told her - "Didi ye achi baat nahi. Aap vidhwa ho. Aap kaam pe jate ho log kaisi kaisi baatein karte hain aapke bare mein aur ab shadi karoge to log kya kahenge "

"Log to hamesha hi kuch kahenge. Par meri bhi koi zindagi hai ya nahi" she was crying saying all this and locked herself in her room.

She cried her heart out. She was thinking that Keya would understand her position but she too was behaving like the others.

Thinking about these things she fell asleep and was woken up with a jet by the alarm clock. It was seven in the evening.

She opened the door of her room and found that Keya was studying while Kumari was preparing dinner.

She went to Keya's room and told "I am sorry bachcha. I should have not shouted like that".

"Its ok mummy. If you want I am ready to meet your friend. I am happy in your happiness" she told and hugged her.

Tears of happiness rolled down her cheeks as she found support from her daughter.

Rahil was home to pick up Rushali.

"Mummy, Rahil uncle is here" Keya announced as she heard the honking of the car.

"Oh, he's already here. I am late today. Beta I have kept your milk on the table, Kumari shall come in a while and prepare the breakfast. Don't skip it ok" she kissed her on the forehead and rushed outside.

While in the lift she met Mrs. Malhotra, her nosy neighbour who was always interested in her life.

"So Rushali how are you? Seems your boyfriend is waiting, that's why you are in a hurry" she smirked.

She gave a fake smile and ignored her comments and went on her way.

"Hi Rushy. What took you so long" questioned Rahil.

"Keya is having an off day today so got late. Nonetheless, I need to finish the presentation" saying so she took out her tab and started working on the presentation.

They reached office in 20 mins and Rushali rushed to the washroom to dab on some makeup before the client presentation.

"Hurry up Rushy. The clients are here" told her friend Samantha coming into the washroom.

She hurriedly put on the makeup and proceeded towards the conference room.

She gave a brilliant presentation and the clients were impressed with the marketing strategies she suggested.

Rushali was happy that her hard work had paid off and Rahil silently appreciated her with a nod of his head.

Back home Keya was busy munching chips when Kumari told "Khana laga doon Keya baby. Itna chips wagera mat khaya karo".

"Mujhe abhi bhook nahi didi baad mei khaoongi" saying so she became engrossed in watching the movie.

It was two in the afternoon when Rushali called from work.

"Khana ho gaya keya ka" she questioned Kumari.

"Nahi madam wo boli abhi nahi khana" she answered.

"Phone do usko" she told angrily.

"Keya what kind of behaviour is this, why didn't you have your food".

"Chill mom, I am not hungry and I am not a kid that you are always behind me. Let me enjoy my break and don't bother me" saying so she disconnected the call.

Rushali was heartbroken with this behaviour of hers, she had tears in her eyes which she quickly wiped.

Rushali tried to compose herself but her bestie Samantha knew that something is wrong.

"All well Ru" she asked.

"Yeah, it's just that I am worried about Keya, Sammy. Off late it's becoming tough to handle her" she shared her dilemma.

"Don't worry Ru, things shall fall in place. Why don't you and Rahil tie the knot" she questioned.

"It's not that easy Sammy. He hasn't told his parents yet about us. He needs some time and even I am not in a hurry" she responded.

Just then she received a call from Mr bajaj who was the marketing head. He was known to be a big flirt even after being in early fifties and didn't miss an opportunity to hit on any girl.

He tried his charms on Rushali too but she was a thorough professional who didn't fall prey to his charms.

That day she had to submit an important presentation to him so he asked her to meet him to discuss the presentation.

She went to his cabin and he tried to put his hands on her shoulders when she simply backed out and he had to restrain from doing so.

"Rushali why are you so paranoid. We are Colleagues dear, you can always count me in your support."

"Thanks for the offer sir but I am well capable of handling my self" she told and discussed about the presentation and left in a hurry.

It was already 10 when she left. It took at least half an hour for her to reach home.

"I hope Keya hasn't slept" she thought to herself.

She reached home and opened the door with the key that she had.

Keya was fast asleep on the dining table.

"Beta get up.. I am back home. Let's have dinner" she coaxed her.

"Mummy you are late everyday nowadays " she complained.

"Ok darling, this weekend we shall have fun together. Ok" she told and they both hugged each other.

The weekend came and as promised rushali spent the entire day with keya. They did shopping, bowling, had Keya's favourite food. All in all it was Keya's day out with only her mom.

That day Rushali had devoted her entire day in playing mom to Keya and she was happy about this. They were watching a movie when Rahil called.

Though Keya was fond of Rahil, that time she didn't like his intrusion and made a grumpy face. Seeing her like that, Rushali disconnected the call which made her very happy.

She just hugged her tight and told "I love you mom, you are the best" which made her very glad.

On the way back, Keya insisted on having an ice cream and they went to the ice cream parlour near their society. There they met Mrs. Malhotra.

"Oh mom and daughter together. It's a rare sight. Otherwise, I see you with your boyfriend only" she said curtly.

Keya felt angry listening to this and wanted to give it back to her when Rushali stopped her. Although she was just ten in age, the challenges which life had thrown at her had made her mature very early.

Rushali regretted that she couldn't protect her precious child from this big bad world and she had to face the cruelty so early in life.

"Yes, Mrs. Malhotra, it was a mom and daughter day out for us. How I wish you had a daughter to go out on such dates" saying so they both left from there.

Mrs. Malhotra was fuming with anger listening to these words and vowed to teach them a lesson.

Keya was very tired with the entire day's outing and fell asleep as soon as she lay on the bed.

Rushali was happy that her daughter was happy. She changed her clothes, showered and made some hot coffee for herself.

She checked the time. It was eleven. She messaged Rahil if he was free and he promptly called her back.

"So Rushy, how was your day with Keya. I hope you guys had a fabulous time." He told excitedly.

"Yes, we did have a great time and sorry for not accepting your call" she told.

"No worries. I understood that you guys wanted some alone time. No kebab mei haddi" he joked.

Rushali felt blessed to have someone like Rahil by her side and after having talked for around half an hour, they both retired to sleep.

Next day being a Sunday both mother and daughter slept till late, when they woke up it was time for lunch. Kumari didn't come to their house on Sundays so it was their duty to make the food.

Keya wanted to surprise her mom, so she went to the kitchen and started preparing sandwiches for them. Seeing her at work made Rushali really proud. She was overwhelmed seeing her little doll at work.

"Mummy, taste my sandwiches which have been prepared with a lot of love" she beamed.

"Yes my bacha these are the best sandwiches I can ever have" she told with tears in her eyes.

She savoured each and every bite of the sandwich prepared by her when the doorbell rang.

Rushali opened the door to find Rahil there. He had come home with a bar of ice cream with Keya's favourite flavour,

Keya jumped seeing that and went and hugged Rahil.

"Thanks Rahil uncle" she told and sat down to eat the ice cream.

Rushali was happy seeing Keya like this,

"I should more often spend some quality time with her" she told herself.

While keya was enjoying the ice cream, rushali and Rahil sat in the living room.

"Its good to see Keya so happy" Rahil told smiling.

"Yes. Yesterday's outing has had a positive impact on her. I should do it more often" told Rushali.

"If that is what makes her happy, I suggest you do it every weekend, let that be mom and daughter day" suggested Rahil.

"I guess you are right, thanks for being so understanding" she told and hugged him.

Just then Keya too came to the living room.

She didn't quite like this gesture of her mom but she didn't show her displeasure.

She sat alongwith them when Rushali suggested to play a game of scrabble.

Rahil readily agreed so did Keya and all three of them got busy in the game of scrabble.

Mondays were always busy being the first day of the week. Keya too had to go to school that day for some activity classes.

Rushali too was getting ready for work when Kumari rang the doorbell.

"Keya baby ka school hai aaj" she questioned.

"Haan jaldi se tiffin bana de Kumari" told Rushali.

Kumari got ready to prepare their food and in minutes she laid down the table with butter toast and aloo parantha. She packed tiffin for both Keya and Rushali and off the mom-daughter duo went to their respective destinations.

"Ru, how was your weekend" asked Samantha.

"Sammy it was great. We both had an awesome time. I am thinking of doing it more often so that Keya doesn't feel that she is alone" she told.

"I am so happy for you Ru" she told and hugged her.

Rahil too reached office and they both caught up during lunch time.

While she was having lunch, she got a call from Mr bajaj.

"See me in office in 10 mins" his voice sounded commanding.

She hurriedly finished her lunch and went to his cabin.

"Yes sir, what happened" she questioned.

"The presentation which you gave last week, has been rejected by the client and our rivals have got that assignment" he told angrily.

Rushali was shocked listening to this as she was appreciated for her assignment.

"But sir, how is this possible" she asked shocked.

"I don't have any idea. I want that assignment at any cost" he thundered.

"But what can I do" she questioned.

"If you want, you can do many things Rushali. Just give it a thought" he told pressing her shoulder and giving a cheap smile.

Rushali's blood boiled by this gesture of his and she gave him a tight slap.

"I resign from my position here and now" she shouted and barged out of the room.

Tears were rolling down her cheeks.

"What happened Rushy" questioned Rahil seeing her like that.

She narrated the entire incident to him. He was about to go and punch him hard but she stopped him as she didn't want to create a scene in the office.

She went and hugged Samantha and explained the entire ordeal to her.

"Ru you should not leave that fellow. File a case of sexual harassment with HR" she said hugging her.

Rushali felt that it was the right thing to do. After all, why should she leave the job when she is not at fault.

She mailed the entire incident to the HR team and a meeting was fixed with both the parties in the afternoon.

Both the parties presented their case and knowing Mr bajaj's track record he was found to be guilty and asked to resign from his post.

He was fuming with anger and vowed to himself that he would not leave Rushali.

Mr bajaj returned home that day feeling furious.

"How dare that woman ruin my career. I am not going to leave her. Just wait and watch rushali how I ruin you" he muttered to himself.

Rushali went home really saddened that day.

"What happened mumma" asked Keya.

"Nothing beta. Mom had a tough day today" she told hugging her.

"Don't worry mumma, god will make everything fine" she said wiping the tears which had filled up her eyes.

She went and took a shower and Kumari came to her with her favourite cup of coffee.

"Kumari tu kehti hai na main ek vidhwa hoon to thoda sambhal jar rehna chahiye. Kya ye meri galti hai" she asked her.

"Kya hua madam, aaj aap bahut udas ho" she asked her.

She started crying inconsolably hearing this.

Kumari just hugged her and said "Ye duniya badi zahir hai madam par hamein himmat rakhni padti hai" she consoled her.

She gathered herself because she had to stay strong for her daughter. She had to make her a strong, fearless woman. She had to stay fearless for her.

It was around one in the night when she received a call on her phone. Sleepily she picked it up and said "Hello. Who's on the line"

The line was blank. There was no one on the line.

Again her phone buzzed and she picked it up and again there was no response.

The third time the phone rang and she was agitated.

"Who the hell is it. What do you want?"

"I want to sleep with you. What are your charges" the person on the other end said.

"Just shut up you moron. How dare you?" She thundered

"If you didn't want to be contacted why did you put your phone number on the website" the person on the other side spoke.

She froze listening to this. Was it a bad dream? Who had tried to malign her image?

Thousands of thoughts crossed her mind. Her mind couldn't focus on anything. She didn't know whom to call. Finally she called up Rahil.

"What happened Rushy. Why are you sounding so scared" he asked concerned.

"Rahil, someone has put my number on some website and I am receiving obscene calls" she told crying.

Rahil was dumbstruck hearing this, he calmed her down and said "Rushy don't worry, we shall find out who the culprit is. Let's register the case with the police in the morning" he suggested.

She agreed to his proposal and the entire night she was sleepless. She just kept twisting and turning on her bed.

"Oh god why are you testing us so much" and she cried herself to sleep.

The morning rays peeped through the curtains and she woke up and got dressed hurriedly. Rahil came to pick her up and off they went to the police station.

"Haan ji madam bolo" said the officer in charge at the police station.

"Sir, I am getting obscene calls from this number since last night" she told him giving the number.

The officer called on that number but it was switched off.

"Matlab kya baat kahi aapko" he questioned.

Rushali was feeling a bit awkward to give the details when Rahil stepped in and told the entire episode to the officer.

"Acha, to ye baat hai, thik hai to aapka number tracking pe daal dete hain. Dekhte hai kaun aapko pareshan kar raha hai" saying so he instructed the constable to note down her phone number.

After completing the formalities at the police station, Rahil suggested her to go to a coffee shop. She too needed a break from all the things that were happening lately so she readily agreed.

She was sitting with a sad face at the coffee shop.

"Don't know why god is punishing me like this" she continued.

"Don't worry Rushy, all shall be fine but I must say one thing that you are bold enough to take the move of complaining to HR department but what purpose did it solve. Bajaj has been thrown out of office because of you, don't you think he would retaliate" he questioned her.

Rushali was silent listening to this. Was bajaj behind all this fiasco she wondered?

She was afraid thinking of the consequences those calls would have on her mental setup and besides that she had Keya to look after.

"Don't worry about Keya. I shall handle her. You just think of coming out of this mess. I would suggest you to take back your complain from HR and get bajaj rejoin office" he suggested.

She was shocked listening to this.

"How can you suggest something like this Rahil " she told angrily.

"Don't be upset Rushy. I am telling it for your own good, rest is your choice" he told and kept quiet.

They both sipped their coffee silently and then she told him to drop her home.

She was pondering over Rahil's suggestion when Samantha called her up.

She gave her the entire details of what happened the night before and the morning.

She was shocked listening to this and told "I am sure that bajaj is behind all this".

"I don't have any proof about it dear" she told sadly.

"Its good that your phone has been put on tracking. This way it would be easier to track the culprit" she motivated her.

Keya could sense that her mom was upset regarding something and she decided to cheer her up so she made chocolate biscuit cake for her.

"Here mumma, this is for you" saying so, she put the cake in front of her.

She just hugged her child and told "Thank you beta. You are the light of my life" and kissed her.

Both mother and daughter were about to retire to sleep when her phone buzzed again.

Terrified she picked up the phone only to find that it was the same person.

"Kya madam ek raat ka kitna logi".

She just kept the phone and started crying. Keya too got scared seeing her mom so vulnerable.

"Don't worry mumma, call Rahil uncle. He won't do anything if I keep mum" she told.

Teary-eyed she looked at her intently and asked her "What do you mean he won't do anything if you kept mum".

"Tell me beta, don't be afraid. What did Rahil uncle tell you" she questioned her.

"Mumma when you are not home, Rahil uncle comes and plays a game with me. Its name is no pain no gain. He bites my lips, touches my chest and the place from where I pee, he opens my panty and kisses it..he tells he loves it"

Rushali was shocked, she held her head in her hand and sat down like a dead person.

She couldn't believe that she had trusted a person like Rahil.

He's cheaper than bajaj, she thought to herself.

"Rahil you scoundrel you would need to pay for it" she told herself, wiped her tears and got up.

Keya started asking her "Mom, what happened. Have I done anything wrong" she asked innocently.

"No beta, not you, my precious child. I have been a bad mother. I am going to amend the wrong that I did. Come with me" she told and off they went to the police station.

"Madam ji kal aap aate ho aur kehte ho aapke sath bura hua. Aaj kehte ho jo kal aaya tha usne aapki beti ke sath galat kiya hai, kya samajh rakha hai humlog on ko aapne" he told irritated.

Rushali had enough.

"If you cannot write the complaint, then let me meet the senior officer here. I want to talk to him now" she shouted.

Hearing the commotion outside, the senior police officer intervened and listened to the whole story.

Since it was a case of child sexual abuse, they ordered for medical examination to be done of Keya.

Keya was terrified and didn't know what was happening.

She just clung to her mom.

"Don't worry beta. What Rahil uncle was doing was not right. These doctors just want to check you. I am here with you, don't worry" she coaxed her.

She mustered courage and went with the doctor for the examination. The doctors confirmed the reports and promptly the police went to Rahil's place.

He was shocked to see the police along with Keya and Rushali.

He couldn't muster the courage to look into Rushali's eyes.

"Just a minute inspector" she told and stopped the policeman.

"I didn't know that you were a fox in the garb of a sheep. How dare you play with my daughter" she told holding his collar.

The inspector had to pull her away from him.

"Ma'am, the police would do the needful. You please take care of your daughter" saying so they arrested him and took him away.

Rushali just hugged Keya and reached home.

She called up Samantha and asked her to come home immediately.

"Is everything fine Ru" she questioned.

She started crying hysterically and just told "I am a bad mother. I am a bad mother" and was crying profusely.

Samantha reached her home and she found Rushali huddled in one corner and her eyes swollen with the constant crying.

"Ru what happened" she questioned alarmed.

"Sammy I have failed as a mother. My precious little child had to undergo so much suffering.

"What do you mean" she questioned.

She narrated the entire ordeal that her little girl had to go through.

Samantha was shocked. More than that she was angry on Rahil as to how he could break her trust like this.

"But wasn't Kumari home whenever he came" she questioned her.

Until now, Rushali had not thought about all this. She became numb with this question of Samantha.

She called Keya and asked her "Beta whenever Rahil uncle came, was Kumari didi not there"

"No mumma whenever he came, she used to go out. Rahil uncle used to give her money and she used to go smiling " she conveyed.

Rushali was heartbroken listening to this.

She had immense faith in Kumari and this behaviour of hers had left her completely devastated.

She thought of confronting her the next morning.

"Ru I suggest that you complain to the police about Kumari too, after all she purposely left that pervert with her" told Samantha angrily.

"Right now Sammy am lost. I don't know whom to trust anymore" she told hugging her.

"Don't worry darling. I am there with you. We will not leave these people who played with the life of our little doll" saying so she hugged her tight.

She spent that night at her place. Keya was completely blank as to what was wrong. What had happened with her. She just understood that her mom was sad and hurt.

"Don't worry Mumma, God will take us out of this" she said wiping her tears.

"I am a bad mother my Bachcha. I couldn't save you from this ruthless world" saying so she hugged her tight and cried her heart out.

"No mumma you are the best mom. After all, you are my mom. How can you be bad. I will hit those people who call you bad" said Keya innocently.

Rushali hugged her tight and vowed to herself that she would not leave the culprits without getting the necessary punishment to them.

The next day Kumari didn't turn up for work. Rushali tried her number but it was switched off.

"Ru she must have got the information about Rahil's arrest and must have fled from here" told Samantha.

"I shall not let her go away so easily. She can't ruin my daughter's life and flee away like this" she told angrily.

She went to the police station along with Samantha and Keya.

"Sir, my maid is also involved in helping that man who abused my child" she complained.

"Ok give me her address and phone number" the officer told.

She gave the details along with the photograph and proceeded home.

News of Keya's abuse had spread like wild fire within the society.

Mrs. Malhotra was the one who spread it to others.

"Huh, these working women leave their kids and want to enjoy their life and then these things are bound to happen to their kids. Don't know why do they opt to become mothers. Such bad mothers they are" she was discussing with another neighbour.

Samantha and rushali were passing them at that point of time when Samantha stopped and told.

"Look here lady, when you don't know the situation, don't pass such nasty comments, you need to be in that person's shoes to feel what they feel. Have some empathy atleast for the little child".

Mrs. Malhotra just made a face and went from there.

Rushali and Samantha were exhausted by the day's proceedings, so was little Keya. She had become quiet now realising that something bad had happened with her.

"Mumma, am I being punished by God" she questioned Rushali.

"No bacha, you are God's favourite child, then how can he punish you" she told teary eyed.

"Then mumma, why are we going to police. Who has done something wrong, I know that police catches thieves. Who is the thief here?" she asked innocently.

Rushali didn't have answers to her questions. She just hugged her tight and told "Beta the thieves who have robbed our peace of mind and turned our world upside down won't be spared. I promise you".

Keya just hugged back her mom, gave her a peck on the cheeks and went to play in her room.

"Ru, I think I should leave now" told Samantha.

"Thanks for coming over Sammy and being by my side" she told.

"Are you mad, that you are thanking me. I am just a phone call away, just call me anytime" saying so she left from there.

Rushali too got busy in preparing their meal when there was a knock on the door.

Rushali went to open the door and was stunned to see Mr bajaj at the door.

"Why are you here" she screamed at him.

"I am here to help you my dear" he gave a wicked smile and forced himself inside the house.

"Leave just now or else I'll shout and call everyone" she fumed angrily.

"Oh, you still have friends...oh yes your boyfriend ...Rahil. ..I heard you put him behind bars" he told.

"Poor chap he got caught but thankfully he gave me something which you might be interested in" he continued.

She could not believe her ears that Rahil was actually his partner. She was completely aghast.

"What happened? You are shocked listening to just this. ..wait a moment I have something for you" saying so he inserted the CD in the CD player and switched it on.

Rushali was dumbstruck seeing the video. It had Keya and Rahil in it showing all the dirty things that he did with her.

Tears were streaming down her eyes. She couldn't take it anymore. She just switched off the player and took the CD out and destroyed it.

"Oh no worries darling I have more copies of it which can be made available on the child porn site you see" he laughed obnoxiously.

Rushali's tears were not stopping only.

"Please don't spoil my child's life like this" she begged.

"Now I like that....The way you are begging me gives me a lot of satisfaction" he told laughing.

"I tried to put your number on the dating site and trouble you but that Rahil double-crossed me and adviced you to file a police complaint and then the complain with HR which cost me my job. You thought I'll just let you go off like this. No never" he hissed.

"Please leave my child alone. What wrong has she done. I'll do anything you ask me to do" she told folding her hands.

"Really, you would do anything that I ask" he questioned.

"Yes to save my daughter I am ready to pay any price" she cried inconsolably.

"Ok, then take off your clothes" he commanded.

She was aghast listening to this. She stood there frozen. She didn't know how to react.

"God, why are you testing us so much. Mohan how I wish you were alive " she closed her eyes and silently prayed to god.

Just then the doorbell rang.

Rushali hurriedly opened the door and was glad to see Samantha at the door.

She just managed to mouth "bajaj is here" which was enough to alarm her.

She quickly told her that she will call the police and went from there.

"Who is it" demanded bajaj as he had gone hiding in the inside room.

"Nothing just the laundry guy" she exclaimed and rushed inside the room as Keya was fast asleep in that room.

"Your daughter is indeed pretty just like you. Now let me see your inner beauty. Come on now, get started" he told pressing her shoulders.

Rushali had managed to pick up the vase and kept it holding behind the back and as soon as he touched her, she just hit him hard with the vase.

Blood started oozing out of his head and he became unconscious.

Rushali just picked up Keya and rushed out of the house. She bolted the door from outside and was waiting for Samantha who arrived there with the police.

Rushali narrated the entire incident to the police about how bajaj was blackmailing her and she in her self defense hit him.

The police went inside the house and rushed bajaj to the hospital.

Keya was petrified with everything that was going around her. Rushali tried to calm her down. She got a call from the police that bajaj was out of danger and they would be taking his statement the next morning and she was advised to be present at the police station.

Rushali agreed and requested the officer to seize the CD which contained the objectionable stuff of her daughter.

The inspector assured her that they would handle the case sensitively as a child was involved in it.

Rushali heaved a sigh of relief and hugged Samantha.

"Sammy you were godsend today. Had you not come on time don't know what would have happened" she told hugging her.

Samantha hugged her back and told "Ru you shall always find me by your side through thick and thin. You just take care of Keya" saying so they both left for their respective homes.

The next day the police went to record bajaj's statement and asked him about the CDs to which he denied.

"I don't have any such CDs sir, that woman is lying" he lied.

"We will get to know who is lying and who is not. We have orders for searching your house"

Hearing this he was alarmed and tried to dissuade them from going home.

But the police carried out the search and found various CDs at his place which contained child porn. It seemed to be a complete racket that they were running.

The police waited for him to get better to take the investigation further.

It took around 15 days for bajaj to recover completely. He was taken into police custody and questioning started regarding the CDs in his possession.

At first, he denied stating that he was employed in a reputed company.

"We know about your reputation bajaj. How you were thrown out of your office on charges of sexual harassment" told the police officer sternly.

Still, he was not ready to accept his crime when the police started giving him third-degree torture.

He was in too much pain to deny anything. He gave the names of the members who worked with him and the police were shocked to know that Kumari was one of his associates.

She was the one who would work in houses and give them information regarding the kids at home and about the parents. Then it was Rahil who used to befriend the family and the kids and generally they chose single moms because they were easy targets.

The police inquired about the whereabouts of Kumari and he gave them her native address. The police sent their team to the address and arrested her from there.

Once Kumari was brought to the police station, Rushali was called to identify her.

She had taken Keya alongwith her and on seeing Kumari, she cheerfully shouted "kumari didi aap kahan the itne din se".

Rushali held her back and stopped her from going near her.

She herself went and stood in front of her and looked her in her eyes. Kumari couldn't stand her gaze and lowered her eyes.

"Why Kumari why....just for few thousands of rupees you have ruined my daughter's life. She doesn't understand now what has happened with her but as she grows up, she would know. How would she feel? I trusted you so much and this is the result you give" she had tears in her eyes while saying all this.

She was sad and angry at the same time, she wanted to give one tight slap to her but she knew the police would do their job.

"Rushali ji, the guilty are behind bars, we would suggest you to concentrate on your daughter and help her forget this incident".

"Sure officer and thank you for your prompt action. I hope that many lives are saved now though I cannot undo what has happened still I shall make sure that my daughter knows right from wrong. I will teach her about good touch and bad touch which I think is the need of the hour" she told the officer.

The officer just gave an empathetic smile and they left from there.

The entire incident had taken a toll on their physical and mental well being,

On reaching home she just called up Samantha and asked her to come home.

Meanwhile, she had Keya freshen up, made her some noodles and put her to sleep.

It was well past 4 in the evening. She went to take a shower and was sipping her favourite coffee alongwith the noodles when Samantha arrived.

"Sammy all the wrongdoers have been arrested. Now we need to look ahead" she told

"Perfect dear. You should move ahead and give Keya time too. Why not head for a vacation. Just the two of you. It would be a good break" she suggested.

Rushali liked the idea and booked the tickets to Manali.

She went to Keya's room to give this news to her when she found her holding her stomach and crying in pain.

"What happened beta" she asked worried.

"Mumma my tummy is aching badly" she told.

"Ok, let's go the doctor" and she quickly booked a cab and was on her way to the hospital.

Rushali took Keya to the doctor and she examined her.

Since the doctor was a gynaecologist, she informed that she was in a very critical condition.

"I guess your daughter has been subjected to forced sexual interaction quite frequently because of which her uterus has become weak. It has shifted a bit from its position due to which she is experiencing pain" she informed.

Rushali's world came crashing down. She couldn't believe her little doll was in so much pain.

"What now doctor" she questioned.

"I am giving some medicines. If they work well and good or else am sorry to say that we would have to remove her uterus" she told sympathetically.

Rushali burst into tears. She couldn't believe what the doctor said.

Keya was feeling better with the medicines the doctor gave and Rushali took her home.

She was quiet the entire journey and Keya was asleep with the fatigue.

"Why god so many hardships. I know am your chosen child but please god give me all the pain and relieve my daughter of all this pain" she prayed silently as tears rolled down her children cheeks.

She got down the auto and was on her way home when she met Mrs. Malhotra. She knew that like always she would pass some nasty comments but to her surprise she came and asked

"I hope Keya is doing fine. May God relieve her of all the pain" she told and went from there.

Rushali was in tears hearing this and reached home.

She called up Samantha and told her the entire details which the doctor had told.

Even Samantha was at loss of words. She pacified Rushali and told her "Trust God. I hope he makes things better soon".

"God is testing both of us but I am not going to give up so easily" she told wiping her tears.

Samantha boosted up her morale and she went to sleep cuddling Keya.

Next day again, Keya woke up with pain in her abdomen.

She went to the washroom to pee and was shocked to see blood flowing out.

"Mumma" she shouted hysterically.

Rushali got up hurriedly and rushed to the washroom.

She was shocked seeing so much blood and immediately called the doctor.

The doctor advised her to make her wear the sanitary pad and immediately rush to the hospital.

She told as was instructed and rushed her to the hospital.

"Its good that she has started her menstrual cycle" the doctor sounded positive.

Rushali was relieved that it was not something serious.

"Now the entire system would clean itself naturally so you need not worry. I am giving some medicines to relieve her of the pain and she should be doing fine. Your daughter is a true fighter" she told keeping a sympathetic hand on her shoulder.

Rushali felt that she had to undergo all this cause of her.

"Had I been a bit more careful, my daughter would not have to go through all this" she wondered.

Tears were rolling down her cheeks when Keya came and wiped her tears.

"Mom I am doing fine. My teacher has told me all about menstrual cycle, so you don't worry mom" Keya told smiling.

Rushali just hugged her tight and told "I will try and be a good mother from now on. No one would be able to harm you my bacha" she told.

"You have always been a good mom mumma. You have done so much for me in spite of your busy schedule".

Rushali was elated listening to this. What mattered to her the most was that her daughter was happy with her.

Samantha called her to check on her and she gave her the entire details. She too was happy seeing her friend happy.

She heaved a sigh of relief and went home along with Keya.

"Mumma I won't go to school tomorrow "announced Keya.

"But why beta" she asked surprised.

"What if I stain my clothes mumma" she told innocently.

"No beta, when you use sanitary pad it will not stain" she explained to her.

"Am I a bad girl mumma" she questioned.

Rushali was taken aback at this question of hers.

"Why are you telling like this beta" she asked lovingly.

"Because I didn't tell you about the game I was playing. In fact, I liked the game. I know I am a bad girl" she quipped.

"No bacha, you are not bad. Who told you all this" she questioned.

"I heard Malhotra aunty say to another aunty" she confided.

Rushali was furious hearing this and decided to confront Mrs. Malhotra.

Rushali went and knocked Mrs. Malhotra's door.

It was late evening.

"What brings you here at this hour" she questioned at the door.

"Look Mrs. Malhotra we have withstood many taunts of yours but not now, not at the cost of my daughter. How dare you malign her name and tell others that she is bad girl. For God's sake leave the poor child. Keep her out of your gossips, as it is she has been through hell which she is not even aware about, please don't make it more difficult for her. I request you" she said folding her hands.

Hearing the commotion, Mr Malhotra came outside.

"What's this whole hullabaloo about" he questioned.

"Mr Malhotra, I request you to make your wife understand that it is no business of hers to poke her nose in our lives, she better keep out of it" she told and stormed away from there.

Keya was there with her and she smiled that her mom had scolded Malhotra aunty.

"Its good that you scolded her mumma " she told joyfully.

"Anyone who tries to harm you or say anything bad about you, shall get a scolding from me" she said ruffling her hair.

"Mumma I am very happy today. Can we go for an ice cream" she requested.

"Sure darling, let's go right away" she told and off they went to their favourite ice cream parlour.

They were enjoying the ice cream in the ice cream parlour when her phone beeped.

It was a video message from an unknown number.

She opened the video and was dumbstruck looking at it.

The video had images of Rahil and Keya and it was uploaded on a porn site.

Immediately she called up the police and showed them the video.

The cyber cell of the police traced the address from where the video was uploaded and she was shocked when she found out who the person was.

Rushali couldn't believe that someone could go to such lengths.

She was shocked that it was Mrs. Malhotra from whose computer the video was uploaded.

The police went to her place and knocked on the door.

She was surprised to find the police at her doorstep.

"Show us the CD that you have got" the officer demanded.

"What CD are you talking about" she questioned.

The police showed her the video and she was shocked seeing the video.

That is Keya along with Rahil. He is their friend. How come he's doing such a heinous act with her she said.

"How did you get the video" the officer demanded.

"I don't have any clue officer" told Mrs. Malhotra.

"Call your husband" he ordered.

Mr Malhotra came and he accepted that he had got the cd from Rahil in exchange for 5000 rupees. He used to regularly watch child porn and was addicted to it.

Rushali had also gone with the police and was stunned with the revelation made by him.

"Why Mr. Malhotra you ruined my child's life like this" she told crying.

"I was upset at the way you behaved with us so I thought of teaching you a lesson" he told meekly.

The officer have him a tight slap and arrested him on charges of the holding child porn CD and uploading it on net.

He immediately called the cyber cell and asked for the video to be deleted.

Samantha had come to be by Rushali 's side and little Keya was just bewildered as to what was happening with her why her mom was mad at the Malhotras. She simply hugged Rushali and told "Don't worry mumma, you are a good mom. I know you shall make everything find soon".

Hearing these words from her she just hugged her tightly and vowed that she would not leave the culprits.

The journey from filing the case to fighting for Keya was tiring but she did not give up. She made sure that Rahil, Kumari and Mr. Malhotra were behind bars.

Mrs. Malhotra apologised to her on behalf of her husband and told her "You are a strong mother Rushali. I am sorry that I misunderstood you. Please forgive me" she told

Rushali just hugged her and told "We working mothers gave to go through a lot managing home as well as office, it takes double the effort. Please don't label us as bad moms because you don't know under what circumstances she has stepped out to work. Kindly be more empathetic towards her" saying so she walked with her head held high and holding tightly to her doll's finger and she promised to herself that she would make her daughter so strong and independent that she could fight the whole world alone.

Whether working or stay at home all moms are doing a fab job to raise their kids. Please don't label them as good or bad on the basis of this only then this world would be more respecting towards women.