Unending Chase II

Chapter 1

Raj, Ruturaj and Abhay decided to start investigation after Abhiram's party. Ruturaj left for his house. For rest of the day he was thinking how he should behave with Abhiram. After thinking for long 3-4 hours he decided to go and ask Abhiram about his testimony and false things which he found. But Abhay stopped him when he learnt about Ruturaj's plan.
So they decided to keep away all these things from Abhiram till they confirm any fraud from Abhiram's side.


They joined Abhiram's party next day, they had food. Abhiram noticed all of them are little upset and not behaving normally but Abhay managed to act normal and deceive Abhiram.


On very next day of the party, they met in Abhay's office to discuss future action plan.


"This guy Vilas is the key to solve this murder mystery." Raj started explaining how they should start investigation with.
"I can help you to get hold of him. I know few friends who can give his whereabouts." Ruturaj told Raj how he can help.


Ruturaj knew few friends who can help to reach Vilas. Vilas was now missing from his house. And even police tried to trace him but he was untraceable. They wanted to find him.
So Ruturaj contacted Abhiram's and Vilas's friends. He called his 10-15 friends and surprisingly nobody was having any information of Vilas's whereabouts.
Raj, Ruturaj and Abhay were really frustrated with progress. And they came to conclusion that Vilas was in different world.


"I think he must have left country to run away from police after Abhiram got caught that day..." Raj suspected. "We should check his luggage if it is there at his house".
"Ok, we need to check with Owner Aunty" Ruturaj supported him with this plan.


"Hello, Am I speaking with Mrs. Jagdale?" Raj called her to check if Vilas's luggage is still there in house.
"Yes, who is this?" - He got response with a question.
"This is Raj, Aunty you must remember a private investigator came to ask for Vilas.. You testified in court for that ... u remember .. don't you?"
"Ohh.. ya .. ya .. tell me what happened?"
"Aunty, Vilas's luggage is still there in house .. right?"
"Yes ... but ... "
Raj interrupted her . "Aunty, can I ask a favor please.. I need to check his luggage. I need to find some documents and I am sure Vilas should have kept them at house..."
"Yes, but police sealed and locked flat yesterady .. so I am not sure if you can go in to check your document ... "
"What the ........."
"ok, thank you aunty. will call you later if I need anything. bye" Raj looked at Abhay "Abhay, police department is also trying to find Vilas. They have sealed flat and probably they must have taken custody of his luggage."

"Shit !! what we can do now?" Ruturaj asked Abhay hoping he could have way to reach to Vilas's luggage.
"We can't go to police and ask them if we can search his luggage" Abhay replied. "Raj you need to check with your links in police department to get information what all things they have taken in custody."
"Ok.." Raj replied.


He called his so called link.
"Abhay, they haven't taken anything in custody. But flat is sealed. They finished unofficial search and they are waiting to get formal approval from Magistrate on Search Warrant. They couldn't get it as they wanted Abhiram's statement before they put any case on Vilas."


"What they got from their initial search?" Abhay asked without looking at him.


"Some documents and some photographs .. that's it ... they didn't get any proof of money transfer."


"Okay" Abhay replied.


"I want to go in that house. I am planning to get those photographs. I think we can get some lead on this case. And today only I am planning to enter house from balcony. I have my men to help me out. I want those photographs and documents which he mentioned on call." Raj was explaining his future steps.


On very next day, Raj called Ruturaj early morning.
"Hey, are you at home?"
"Yes, will leave for office in 1 hour."
"Ok, I am coming there. Need some help."


Raj reached Ruturaj's house in 10 Minutes. He showed some photographs. And he asked Ruturaj to check if he knows anybody from one group photo.


"Ruturaj, see this picture. There are 10 persons in this photo. Vilas is not there in this photo. It seems Vilas clicked this snap. Looks like he clicked it when they went for outing. I will match background of this image to find out exact location, but my senses tell this is from Sinhagad. And this photo was clicked one day earlier to Vikram Rai's murder."


"How you know this?" Ruturaj frowned as Raj mentioned Vikram Rai's murder.


"Vikram Rai was murdered on 11th April 2009. This photo was clicked on 10th April. Vilas have this photo in his digicam as well. Look at right bottom of photo."


"Yes, you are right.. how do you know about Vikram Rai's murder?"


"I know everything. I am an investigator. And investigator should know if he has worked on that case."


"What! You have worked on Vikram Rai's murder case? How come?" surprises were spurting on Ruturaj.


"Yes. I was investigating for one TV Channel. You know this media. They wanted story about Vikram Rai's murder so they appointed me to investigate and give them some proofs to make documentary. Anyways, leave it .. I will tell you details later on. Tell me if you know anybody from this group."


"Ok, I know one person. I don't have his contact number. But I have his address which I got from college's allumina list. We get letters from college and once I got letter with all batch mate's address." Ruturaj handed over one letter to him.


"Man, this letter is having Vilas's address as well !! .. what you are doing Ruturaj. I can check on this address. This is different than Mrs. Jagdale's address. You should tell me these things man .. I broke sealed house to get this address .. and you were carrying this in your pocket."
Raj was sounding frustrated now.


"Sorry Man, I never checked this complete list. I never observed there is Vilas's name on this." Ruturaj felt sorry for his carelessness.


"That's ok. Let's meet today afternoon at Abhay's place. I am gonna find this address. Bye"
Raj left Ruturaj's house in hurry.


Raj called Abhay to check meeting timing with him. He told Abhay and Ruturaj that he would send a message to both of them for afternoon meeting time.


All of them were seating in Abhay's meeting room. Raj wanted to give recent updates about this case. Also he wanted Abhay should guide for next steps as he was the one who would decide how to put case against Abhiram. Raj explained how he entered Vilas's house from window, and how he took print of different photos from Vilas's digicam, how he photocopied different documents. All he was putting on round table infront of Abhay.
Abhay examined all documents and photos.


"Raj, how was it at Vilas's address?" Ruturaj asked.
"Let me come to that point in some time." He wanted to put all his work step by step. He looked excited so Ruturaj was hoping for some good news.
Raj resumed telling his story what happened since morning ..
"Yesterday in Vilas's room, I got these documents. There is Vilas's bank statement. If you check, it looks pretty regular. I saw some payments towards his credit card. And all other payments are for movies, restaurants. I got his digicam, I checked all photos. He is not in a single snap. Most of these photos are group photos. Ruturaj doesn't know them except one.
Then today afternoon I went to the address Ruturaj was having. Vilas was not there. He used to stay there. That house is not on his name. Lady in that house told me Vilas is married. And I got Vilas's wife's address from her. She also told me that Vilas never used to stay at that house and she saw him rarely with his wife .. And I went to see Vilas's wife." Raj paused to take a sip of water. Abhay,Ruturaj didn't move, they were waiting Raj to start again.


"She told me Vilas passed away 6 months ago....." Raj continued......




Chapter 2


"Raj, stop talking in suspense. Tell me all things you got from his wife." Abhay ordered Raj to explain all things.


"Okay, look from bank records I didn't get anything. Keep all these with you Abhay and check for any suspicious transactions. Surprisingly there is not anything I got from photos. I mean, I didn't get a single photo of Vilas. From his old house I came to know he divorced his wife 10 months ago and he died 6 months ago. I got exact date as 15th April. That means 5 days after of Vikram Rai's murder. From Vilas's handy-cam I got few snaps taken in September month. So I am not sure if this is Vilas's handy-cam . And I am not sure who was living in Mrs. Jagdale's house."
Abhay interrupted Raj to ask question.
"Hey .. wait wait ... tell me one thing .. the time you went to Mrs. Jagdale you had Vilas's photo and you showed it to her to ID it. Don't you?"


"Yes ..... " Raj answered and waited to get approval from Abhay to start with his analysis.
But Abhay continued ..
"Here comes the catch .. look, as per our information Vilas used to stay there till the day Abhiram got caught. As per his wife he died six months ago. Weird !! .. ok continue what you have more on this .. " Abhay instructed to continue.


"Ok. So I was thinking Vilas is not anymore so there in Jagdale's house different person used to stay. And Abhiram knew him. And probably Abhiram knew Vilas died. So he is using Vilas's name to restrain investigation. But I am not sure how come Mrs. Jagdale saw him that day!"


"How Vilas died?" Ruturaj participated in discussion.


"Heart attack. He got savior attack and he was admitted to Sahyadri Hospital. There he died while taking into hospital. These are hospital reports. Interesting thing in these reports is there was no sign of Cholesterol or weak heart or high heart rate when he got attack. Everything was normal. So according to doctors his heart was pretty fine and they see no reason for attack. When I checked with one doctor, he told they need to perform Postmortem. And for this they need police case and requisition to perform Postmortem to find exact reason of attack. So on paper Vilas's death was natural!" Raj answered in detail.

"Okay. I think we can take a pause on Vilas now. Tell me about Vikram Rai's murder case. How and when this happened? What all things you got on his murder?" Abhay shifted focus on root which started this fiasco.

"Vikram Rai was industrialist. He was famous for grabbing new market for anything. He started his phone company initially. Then he moved to electronic manufacturing. Then he started company for exporting goods from India to overseas. And when he saw huge profit in Construction business, he started constructing huge buildings. And his bid for constructing largest mall in India succeed, he threw big party to all members and friends who helped and planned to quote his bid. On party there were around 1000 invitees. Most of them were working in his Construction company. I don't remember if I came accross Abhiram's name in any way for this murder." Raj stopped talking and opened his bag which he used to always carry. It was a laptop bag, he used it as he can drag his laptop with him anywhere he goes with the help of wheels. He opened his laptop. He typed his password and waited for Microsoft Windows to start. Nobody was talking now. Even small beep from laptop was clearly audible. They were waiting for Raj to start again with Vikram Rai's murder details. Ruturaj and Abhay were unaware why Raj opened his laptop. So they better kept mouth shut and started looking on laptop screen.

Raj opened list of invitees of Vikram's party. Abhiram's name was not there. Raj clapped and said "See, that's why I never investigated about Abhiram"

"ok, tell me how he was murdered? and do you have any suspect with your investigation?" Abhay asked.

"He was poisoned. There was dance program on the party day. And someone from stage artist gave him a poisoned drink. Nobody is able to find who handed over it to Vikram. And to find suspects I checked if it was having any relation with his contract. But I don't see any direct beneficiary from this murder. That contract is still pending and is on waiting to get quoted again. But my senses and my analysis tell me that Navin Bhatnagar could be the person behind his murder." Raj answered all questions from Abhay. And he was waiting now for Abhay to ask about Navin Bhatnagar.

"What !!! Navin Bhatnagar? I know him. He is Abhiram's friend. Abhiram always goes to see him!" Rutraj shouted ...



Chapter 3

Trio were getting Interesting information, some clues, few more puzzles with this case now. Ruturaj was thinking this started with a phone call from Abhiram and then turned to go toward unending pathway. Now all of them were not sure where to start. Going for Vilas was a dead end already. For Vikram Rai's murder case they got new link, but choosing to go for that was having risk that Abhiram can get a clue of what they were doing. But to go ahead for next milestone they chose to go for Navin Bhatnagar.


"Navin Bhatnagar is well established builder in Pune and Mumbai. He built our Garment Firm. And that was done from Abhiram's contacts. I have met Navin. And I don't know if I can see he can plan murder. Will sound strange to you but I find Navin very polite and down to earth. He follows rules.... and ... don't know how to believe on him .. " Ruturaj started explaining how he thinks about Navin.


"Raj, did you ever talked with this guy?" Abhay asked Raj.


"Yes, I went to visit him once. And I told I am investigating on this murder and want some information. And with his blunt answers I suspect he must be involved in murder. He was Vikram's competitor. And he could be benefited with Vikram's murder. As he can bid now for mall construction. And also he already put bid for that project. And he didn't get contract. So according to me he is the person we need to look for." Raj replied.


"Hey guys, I got to go to office now. I haven't been in office since this started. Abhiram may suspect if I don't go for meeting now." Ruturaj interrupted conversation.


Abhay replied "Okay you may leave now, anyways I am going to meet this guy Navin Bhatnagar. Raj can you please fix appointment with him. Don't tell anything about Abhiram's case but yes tell him that I want to meet for Vikram's case"


"Okay" Raj replied and started to find out Navin's office number.


On next day morning Raj and Abhay went to meet Navin Bhatnagar.


"Hello, Mr. Bhatnagar I am Abhay Mokashi. I am criminal lawyer. wanted to ask you something about Vikram Rai's murder if you allow." Abhay came to point directly without wasting time.
"Yeah sure, go ahead" Navin allowed him to go ahead.
"Tell me if anything wrong with Vikaram. Like if he got finance from wrong sources?"
"Actually I don't want to say bad about him, but yes he used to get black money as source and then with this construction business he used to make it white. I can say his other businesses were going good and that was honest money he earned. But as soon as he entered construction business he turned to be like other builders in town." Navin explained all things straight.
"Do you think anybody involved in this with him like Abhiram? .. I hope you know Abhiram"
"Ohh, yes I know Abhiram. I don't think Abhiram is involved in this. Even he came to me with his plan to construct hotel for him. But we didn't get permission to built one.And he never tried to use different way to get permission too .. you know which way I mean .. "
"Yeah I got that .. .. By the way do you know Ruturaj? What you think about him?"
"Ruturaj? Abhiram's partner ? what makes you think if he is involved in this?" Counter question came from Navin this time.
"Hmm .. let me explain you. I am investigating something for him on Abhiram. You must have heard about Abhiram's case few days back. And my investigator linked it to Vikram's murder case. We have got some thing on this. I can't share those with you as of now. It can be dangerous for you as well." Abhay explained in vague without reveling his investigation.
"Okay .. I don't think Ruturaj knows Vikram any way. I am not sure. And I am not in position to tell his involvement as I don't know him as much I know Abhiram."
"Ok, thanks for information Navin. I am grateful for this." Abhay shook hand with Navin while leaving from his office.


"Why you asked about Ruturaj?" Raj asked Abhay while coming out of building.
"Just like that, this all started with call to Ruturaj. And he was involved in each scene of this case till now. He also knows Vilas. He knows all things we are investigating. So I just hit a shot with his name to see Navin's reaction on participation of Ruturaj on this. Hey by the way can we go to Vilas's wife now? could you call her up and check?" Abhay was looking skeptical about this new thought. And for his fortune Ruturaj was not there with him.


"Hello, good morning Bhabhiji. I am Abhay Mokashi, I am criminal lawyer and I want to know few things about Vilas." Abhay asked Vilas's wife as soon as he got chance to speak with her.


"Yes sure." She replied.
"When you both started staying in Mrs Jagdale's house?"
"We were there just for 2 months. We went there in Feb-09 this year. And we were there till March End."

"Why you left from that house?" Raj asked this time.
"I didn't want to but Mrs. Jagdale told us that Mr. Jagdale's nephew is coming to stay there so we had to leave from there, and we shifted to Pashan Road area in April and in 15 days Vilas passed away. Strange .. I still feel bad to leave that house."
"Wait wait .. are you sure you moved in April?" Abhay asked looking at her if she is lying.
"Yes.. I am sure. I can't forget that date ..."
"Okay. Is it fine if I ask about Vilas's death?"
"Hmmm .. okay .. " she replied reluctantly.
"Vilas got heart attack as per report I got from hospital. He was not having any other signs to get savior heart attack. Right?"

"Yes" expressions on her face were telling she didn't want to discuss about this but still Abhay continued to ask.

"Doctors mentioned his death as natural death. Do you think if this is true? please give me frank opinion. And sorry if you feel offended to answer this, but it will help to find how he was dead."

"No, I don't think it was natuaral death but he got heart attack. It's true. I was here with him. Door bell rang that morning and Vilas went to open the door. I couldn't see who was that person as I were in kitchen. Vilas came in after 5 minutes, and within next few minutes I saw him lying on floor with his right hand holding chair leg and left hand on chest. He was sweating like anything... " She couldn't continue as tears rolled out of her eyes.

"Okay .. any chance we can get to this person?" Raj asked this time as Abhay looked busy in his thoughts. Probably he was visualising incident.

"No .. I really don't know this person .. But I am sure he did something to him .. something .. we don't know .. something doctors didn't identified." this time she started crying aloud. Abhay stood up and held her hand "Cool down maam .. we will find this guy. Don't worry .. doctors must have missed something .. calm down .. " Abhay called her maam coz he didn't know her name. And he couldn't ask that moment.

"Thank you Aarti .. be calm and don't worry. If you remember something which you haven't told then call me." Raj stood up to go out when Abhay signaled him to finish with meeting.

"Raj I want Vikram Rai's murder case files, Vilas's death documents you got from Hospital and file with this Abhiram's case details .. carry them to my office in some time. I am going for lunch out with a client. And please call Ruturaj that I am cancelling tomorrows meeting. I want a day to put all these things togather to restart with next steps." Abhay instructed Raj. And Raj noded as he couldn't dare to ask what he wanted to check.

Chapter 4

Abhay was on his desk with 15 files on desk. 10 of Vikram Rai's murder case. 4 of Abhiram's case. And one from Sahyadri Hospital. Before opening any file he went to kitchen to prepare tea with ginger and masala. He poured tea in thermos then he switched off his cell phone. He again came back on desk. He seperated files and made 3 stacks. One with 10 files, second with 4 files and opened last file. He started reading it aloud. File was having Vilas's death details. Most of terms he didn't understand, they were purely medical terms. He opened his legal pad. Started drawing incident flow ..



Then again Vilas thought of something and then again re-draw it with dates and with new data in it.

Then Abhay started with his second cup of tea to start with second thought of dates. So he opened new page on Legal Pad. And started writting down -

- Vikram Rai murdered in April 09

- Mrs. Jagdale told to leave house in April 09

- Abhiram met Vilas and gave 1 Lakh Rupees to Mrs. Jagdale in April 09

- Vilas moved to new house in April 09

- Vilas Murdured Dead in April 09

Abhay was not sure why he wrote 'Vilas Murdered' because he never got anything as such in Vilas's file. But he again opened file, this time he called his family doctor Mr. Abhay Patil.

"Hello Doctor, how are you? this is Abhay. Long time no see. But it's good I am keeping my health .. " Abhay started conversation without letting Doctor to speak a word. Abhay continued ..

"Doctor, I have a question for you .. how heart stops? "

"Abhay, I think you need Psychiatrist not Physician  .. do you know what are you talking?" Doctor asked Abhay with smile which Abhay could hear.

"Sorry, but tell me please how heart stops? I mean in which scenario we get heart attack?" Abhay asked clearly this time.

"There are many reasons, but base reason is a heart attack occurs if the flow of oxygen-rich blood to a section of heart muscle suddenly becomes blocked. If blood flow isn't restored quickly, the section of heart muscle begins to die. Cholesterol .. " Doctor started giving him explanation but Abhay interrupted him with his next question. "Can we artificially stop blood flow to heart?"

"Ummm .. Yes ..difficult. But if there is clot or bubble in blood then blood flow can be stopped. Since when you started studying Medical Abhay?" Doctor got chance to ask something to Abhay. But Abhay didn't answer .. he was thinking of something. He hung up the phone without saying 'Bye' to Doctor. Doctor must have tought that Abhay is going mad on something about heart attack.

Abhay started his desktop monitor, he plugged in Internet connection wire and opened google.com.

After reading web page which he got from google, he wished to call Aarti to meet but he thought he had to finish his work of that day.

So he opened Abhiram's file this time.....

Chapter 5
Abhay continued to take notes on his notepad. He emptied thermos with his last caffeine drink. He needed more but he was not having time to get up and take break from his study. Finally he couldn't work more   without caffen kick so he checked his watch it was showing 20:30. He realised he had not taken his lunch. He felt hungry, he got up and decided to go to Pizza Hut in Aundh. He ordered small pizza with diat coke. While taking diat coke he thought 'what a non sense to have diat coke with pizza' with grin on his face.
He took few bites of Pizza and drank few sips of coke with straw, he saw bubbles on top of coke bottle formed due to blow from straw pipe, suddenly he got up, went out , started car and headed towards Vilas's house. He knocked on door waited for few minutes to get in house. Aarti opened the door, she was surprised to see Abhay again. He apologised to come without notice. And again he started with his questions without realisation he was still standing out of door ..


"When Vilas went out on that day and came back did you see blood on his hand?"
"No, I don't remember .. let me visualise ...I think yes .. no no .. I am sure there was blood on his left bicep. But it was like drop and I don't think it caused heart attack !"
"No.. you don't know ... This was a reason of heart attack girl   .. you missed it and so doctors .." Abhay told her frowning at her.
Abhay called his Doctor again ..


"Good Evening Doctor .. " this time he greeted him and waited for response.
"Hey Abhay, you fine?" Doctor asked sarcastically.
"Yeah .. sorry for morning.. I was working on one case and I got a scene so I called you. I even forgot to thank you for the information." Abhay sounded apologetic.
"Never mention it.. so you called me to say sorry and thank?" this time Abhay could hear smile with question.
"Yes .. no .. actually .. after morning's discussion I checked few pages on net having details of how to stop blood flow to heart. I got link where some doctor mentioned successive air bubbles in blood can stop blood flow to heart. As bubbles contain air and in place of blood only air reaches to Heart. So I was thinking of how air bubbles in blood could be planted. And after seeing coke bottle with straw I realised a injection without any fluid if given to anybody, it can create air bubble in blood. Am I making any sense?"
"Yes, you are right .. injection without any fluid in it is having only air. So we usually spray out little liquid before giving injection to patient. But remember heart attack occurs if the flow of blood to heart muscle suddenly becomes blocked. If blood flow isn't restored quickly. So if you ask me a normal injection can't block blood flow for long time to stop heart working." Doctor explained.
"Okay so you mean there must be big size injection or pipe to give heart attack?"
"Yes .. or rather I can see there must be injection with long pipe given if there is heart attack."
"Okay, thanks doctor .. I got what I wanted ... will come to meet you next week." He hung the phone up and looked back to Aarti.


"Vilas was murdered !! I am sure .. we are gonna find this guy who did this.. okay... tell me if you know if Vilas was involved in any illegal funds?"
"No.. I am not sure .. rather I would say no .. he was not involved in anything .. " she started to cry again .. but Abhay ignored her tears this time
"Please give me his bank details .. I want to check his account."
She went inside and took his passbook and handed over to Abhay.
"This is the only account he had?" Abhay asked.
"Yes .. I think .. I dont know if there are any other .. "
"Okay .. " Abhay started checking it in front of her though he was sure there won't be anything in that.
"Hey .. wait .. he had another account but that was joint with Abhiram .. his friend .. I don't have account details but .. "
Abhay was about to fell down after hearing that .. he realised then he was still standing out of the door. He couldn't speak anything with her. Rather he couldn't react on that .. he thought .. this is going difficult .. everything is so messed up .. every time new thread is coming up .. there are so many open threads ..  he felt this chase is unending .. an unending chase !!


Abhay came back to his office .. he checked his watch it was showing 22:39. He decided to come with only single thread out of all these open threads. He went to kitchen. Again prepared thermos full tea, this time with more ginger to make it strong.
He came back on his desk .. Abhiram's file was open, he started reading it aloud. Started noting down important points on his notepad.

From his notes, he had two points which he needs to check. First point 'why Mrs. Jagdale took deposit of 1 Lakh rupees from Abhiram for her husband's nephew'. And second one was 'why Abhiram didn't see Akash's name on deposit receipt. He should have seen it.' Thinking this Abhay took Deposit receipt in his hand. He stared at it almost for 5 minutes. He stood up .. He called Raj ..


Chapter 6


"Hey Raj, could you please come here and I want handwrite analysist if you know anybody." Abhay requested Raj.
"Man, do you know what's the time now? it's 2:30 AM not PM to get you any analyst. You should be thankful I picked my phone wondering what must have happened." Raj was sounding irritated by Abhay's request. Abhay didn't realise what was time. He didn't understand how time passed studying files and taking notes.
"Ahh .. I am sorry .. look I was working on this since I came back and didn't know the time. Come early morning .. and don't forget Analyst. And we will again need to go to Vilas's new house to check something.. so come as early as possible .. "
"Okay ..will try to .. " Raj sounded angry to take order from Abhay at 2:30 AM.


Raj couldn't sleep, he thought it could be tea effect or thought of receipt. He got up again connected to net. He opened google.com. Searched 'Handwriting Analyser', he was looking for some tool to analyse handwriting. He got one. He downloaded it and installed in 10 mins. All the time he was complaining about net speed. He was real impatient person on earth now. He realised tool needs scanned copy of document only in PDF format. He cursed himself. He used 'F' word atleast 50 times when he had to scan because he never used scanner and he was new to that device. He always used to ask his secretary to do that task for him. He tried 10 times to scan copy of receipt. But he didn't succeed to. Without thinking of time he called his secretary .. she picked phone up after 12 Rings ..


"Hello?" she sounded irritated.
"Hey, Amita sorry to bother you this time .. I know it's 3:00 now .. and really sorry. I just wanted to know how to scan a copy in this scanner. Sorry ... "
She interrupted him and started to tell steps .. "Open lid of scanner .. put paper on glass.. with written content facing glass .. open Epson scanner software from desktop .. just double click .. and then click on 'Scan' and once it's done .. click on 'send to' and then select 'mail recipient' and then give your mail id. You will get file on your mail."
Abhay was listing steps down, he noticed how she was master at it. At 3:00 morning she was telling steps without a single pause.
"Thanks a lot Amita .. you can take a leave tomorrow. Thanks again .. really .. I was in middle of .. "
He stopped .. after thinking of time now .. but he heard 'Yaay ' from her when he told about leave.
Abhay followed the steps and he logged in to open his mail. Thankfully mail was there in inbox. He saved the page. And he gave the path to software he downloaded.
He clicked on start button and waited till software prints out the result of scan. Reading result page he was nodding to himself on every point given on result sheet. Once or twice he said 'yess' loudly. Probably he was happy to see he was not wrong about receipt hunch.

He opened his mail and dropped a mail with all these details. He again searched few pages on google. He again mailed that information. He came back on his desk, this time he opened Vikram's file. Started to take notes.

-Vikram Got contract
- Threw a Party
-


He went on his bed. And this time he didn't realise when he slept. He got up when door bell rung twice. He got up .. still half sleepy and opened the door.

"Hey, are you still sleeping? c'mon man .. you called me night to come early morning. I didn't have my breakfast too." Raj was standing out of door and was still angry for late night call.
"Hey Sorry man, I didn't check my watch before I called you. So you got Analyst with you?" Abhay asked yawning.
"Yes.. he is coming in 15 mins."
"Okay good. Come in. Seat let me call Ruturaj and Abhiram to come here."
"Abhiram?" Raj asked frowning at Abhay.
"Yes, today I need him to be here with us .."

                        ********************

"Abhiram, before I go ahead, let me tell you why we all are here." Abhay started conversation. Ruturaj looked upset seeing Abhiram seating there for meeting.
Abhay continued his narration to ease some tension ..
"Look, after we came out of court. We had some questions about your testimony. First thing was you said in your testimony that Vilas messaged you to meet at Deccan Bus stand. But as per police record they tapped phone line not message.."
"But .." Abhiram started to protest and give explanation about this but Abhay told him to hold on till he finishes.
"Then second thing was Deposit Receipt, you signed on it, it is showing name as Akash Nayar. Then you knew that time Vilas is not going to stay there and still you handed over 1 Lakh Rupees to Mrs. Jagdale. Third thing was the message you showed us that day you got from Vilas to run away from police at deccan stand, Ruturaj says that message sender name stored on your phone was Akash Nayar. 3 things Abhiram. We were catching these since then. I didn't want any bad from your side on this. It was for my reputation, my business. We found that this guy 'Vilas' died on 15th April. And you were going to meet him at Deccan Bus Stand?  Now explain these things .. I never came to you before this just to be sure and clear on this beforehand. Do you know Akash Nayar any way?" Abhay was talking rudely to Abhiram. Ruturaj was happy to see Abhay didn't mention about company fraud thing. Abhay just mentioned he wanted to be sure.

"Wait .. let me start from beginning .. In April month's first week Vilas met me near office. He requested me 1 lakh rupees. He didn't tell me that time for what he wanted. I gave him my number. I told him that I will check and will let him know if it's possible for me to give 1 Lakh in week's time. I told him to call me after 2 days. He called me back after 2 days. I told him yes. He asked me to send it online to his bank account. I was pretty ok with that. Next day he again called me, and he told me to give that money to Mrs. Jagdale. I didn't know for what I am going to hand over money to Mrs. Jagdale. I felt it suspicious. But I went there, I saw Mrs. Jagdale and I asked her why I am giving money to her. She told me that this is for house rent and deposit. And I really don't remember if we discussed Vilas or Akash's name in our discussion. It just happened. But for sure when I signed that receipt I saw Vilas's name on it. Believe me .. "
Abhay interrupted him "Do you have account number Vilas gave to you?"
"Yes, I have it. I just need to go to office for that"
"That's Okay, give it to me after this meeting. And please continue, sorry to stop you in between your story .."
"Second thing .. I never got call. I got only message. Just think Vilas could have called somebody else and police department tapped it. That can be leak from Vilas's side. It was not from any discussion I had with Vilas." Abhiram was speaking with anger now. Abhay didn't bother to calm him down. Probably he wanted Abhiram to reach to this state.
"And third thing, I haven't stored his name on my cell. My cell contacts are in synch with facebook. This number must have saved on facebook for Akash Nayar's name. It came up on my cell. How you dare to blame me for this!" Abhiram was shouting now looking at Abhay and then at Ruturaj.

"Calm down, I got your point. You just told you saw Vilas's name on receipt. I have a proof that you are telling a truth. Yesterday I got this from Handwritting Analyser tool. He read out loudly so everybody could hear.
Point 1 is name on receipt and signature is with same style and with same hand. Abhiram did you write the name on receipt?" Abhay suddenly asked Abhiram to confirm.
"No" Abhiram replied.
"Point 2 is signature is with left hand. Abhiram is right handed, so he didn't sign on this. So we are clear on this that Abhiram didn't see Akash's name on receipt while signing it. Ruturaj you are left handed, right?"


Chatpter 7

Unending Chase I

Chapter 1
'Hello ... hello .... Rut I am in a big trouble ... please come downtown .. Near Deccan Bus stand .. and come fast ..
'Hey Abhi .. at least tell me what happened ... and why you are talking on phone when you are driving bike?
'No dear.. can't tell you now .. don't have enough time to explain ... please rush .. come here as soon as possible ...'
'Okay Man...'

I really don't understand what the hell Abhiram is doing there. Ruturaj was talking in his mind.
He was guessing what he has to do there at Deccan. He took his car key from drawer of corner chest kept near door. And suddenly he stopped. He realized he can't park his Sedan car at Deccan Bust stand due to dense traffic at Deccan stand so he opened drawer again and took out his bike's key. He was not having time to take helmet, and he started to descend down the stairs. On bike, Ruturaj was just thinking of what must have gone wrong with Abhiram, why Abhiram was so tensed. He didn't understand when he crossed Nal Stop Bridge. After 30 mins drive from Chandani Chowk, he reached at Deccan Bus stop he pulled over his bike in Parking area. And he realized he didn't ask Abhiram where to come near Deccan bus stop. Now he was wondering which direction to go, towards right on JM Road or towards left on Karve road.
He put his hands in his jeans pocket to take cell phone out of pocket .. 'Oh Shit !!' Ruturaj yelled "I forgot cell at home ..". He didn't have time to go all the way to Chandani Chowk and take his cell to call Abhiram. He was thinking what can be done to contact Abhiram.
He saw few Police vehicles going towards River Bank. He decided to follow them. He ignited bike's engine and started following Police van. After 2-3 mins drive police vehicles stopped. Ruturaj killed engine, parked his bike at curb and he walked 100 - 150 steps towards river bank... he felt something weird, he was thinking in his mind .. "Not a single vehicle in this area? how it can be possible? this area is always crowded .. what's happened here?" .. Ruturaj was hoping he would get answers to all his questions once he meet Abhiram.
Ruturaj was following police now .. his mind was blank, he was following blindly.
He stopped suddenly, he was shocked to see Abhiram's bike lying dead on road. Petrol from his bike was flowing like blood flowing from murdered body. He looked around bike and shouted loudly 'Abhiram ... Abhi ... where are you ?'. Sound from his throat ceased when somebody held his shoulder from backside. He turned around. "Do you know Abhiram?" question came from Inspector wearing khaki shirt and khaki pant. 'Ye .. Yes ... Yes ..' Ruturaj was stammering. "Okay, tell me your name" .. "Ruturaj .." he told while wiping sweat from his face with his palms.. "Ok, tell me full name.." Inspector was staring at him. "Ruturaj Gupta" He kept his answer short. "How do you know Abhiram ?" one more question from Inspector. "Sir, he is my friend we run small garment manufacturing firm in partnership, and I will answer all your questions .. but please tell me what happened with Abhiram, and why you are asking so many questions about Abhiram?" Ruturaj finally asked inspector.
"I am Sumant Khanvilkar, I was investigating one murder case from last 3 months and we were having some clues with respect to that case. Today morning our investigating department traced one mail having name and bank card details of victim of this case. So we found out person who sent this mail. We tapped his phone lines and we came to know there is one meeting for transferring money which is related to this murder, I don't have details of this meeting and more important I can't share anymore information of this to you. Now come with me to police station. Abhiram is in custody, we arrested him at meeting place. When we approached to him he started running away on bike and we chased him and caught him. Come now ... fast ...get up" said Inspector.

Chapter 2
"So tell me about your friend .." Inspector Sumant Khanvilkar started interviewing Ruturaj in interview room of Deccan police station.
"Sir, he is very cool guy. we are friends since we were in engineering college. That time we were not fast friends as we are now, but we used to meet for coffee during tea breaks. He had different friend group in college. All of them were from rich families. Abhiram is from middle class family and probably so he wanted to earn money as much as he can. He gave this business idea to me and told me how we can make money from this. I was surprised when he came to me with this idea. I thought that he felt I am from rich family and so he approached me. Once I asked him how come you came to me to get finance for business. He told me that he knew I am quite sincere and sober than all his friends. And so I will give my 100% dedication for this business. And yes I am from rich family, don't know fortunately or unfortunately my parents are not as free as his other friends. I mean, my parents are little orthodox. They think I should stand on my feet. I should learn how to earn money. So they gave 75% share to start this business. And Abhiram took loan from bank for his 25% share. He is also handling marketing and sales for our firm. And really he is good at it. I don't think Abhiram is anyway involved in this murder. I can't even imagine if he can do any such murder or so..." Ruturaj wanted to speak further but he stopped as inspector
"No, on the other hand he always pays to bank on 5th of every month. He showed me bank record. And he was telling me with this rate he can close loan in next 4-5 years. And after that there won't be any dues on our firm. Importantly I am not involved in any documentation of this loan as this amount is to be paid to the bank is from his share of company profit." Inspector Khanvilkar was silent now. He was thinking something. He took cigarette packet from his packet to light, but he realized he can't smoke in police station, so he shoved cigarette back in packet. "Sir, can I meet Abhi now?" .. "Hmmm .. yes .. " he shouted loudly "Shinde, come here take this gentleman to Abhiram, the person who we just put in custody...."
Ruturaj was thinking what he can ask Abhiram first. "Should I ask if he is involved? Nah, this would be suspicious. He will think I am also not trusting him. So should I ask how is he? hmm.. he is in custody man he is not going to be good anyway.."
While talking in mind, Police assistant Shinde told him to sit on bench and wait till he takes Abhiram out of custody. Ruturaj started thinking again but immediately after few seconds Shinde came with Abhiram. "Thank god Rut, you are here .. I am sorry friend for all this trouble. But I couldn't think any other friend who can help me to get out of this... can you please call any lawyer I want to get bail and get out of this hell ... " Abhiram started discussion so Ruturaj was happy as he was free to talk and ask anything now. He asked "Tell me what happened ... I will call lawyer and will explain this to him". "I don't know why police started chasing me there at Deccan. I was waiting for my friend. I lent him 1 Lakh rupees six months ago. Today he told me he will give 80K to me and remaining after 2 weeks. And he told me to wait on Z-Bridge. Suddenly Police came and told me to freeze. I stood still, I didn't move. One person from police group held my collar tightly. I was talking to them. They were asking something about meeting. Suddenly I got message from that friend, he can see me and these people are not from police department. These are fake. And he told me to run away as fast as I can. So I gave sharp jerk to person holding my collar, and I started bike and tried to run away. But they started chasing me in police jeep. They fired bullet on my bike tire. I tried to dodge it but bike slipped off the road. I fell down. My ankle is still bleeding .. see ... "
"Okay.. and you called me when you were driving?" Ruturaj started playing inspector's role. "Yes Rut. I was helpless. I wanted to call someone who can take responsibility if anything happens to me. So I called you. I have your number set in my fast dial numbers. So I just needed to press my call button of headset thrice." Abhiram explained.
"Hmmmm.. Got you .. let me call my friend. He knows defense lawyers. And I will tell inspector to send somebody to look at your ankle. Bye for now. Will get back to you soon.. don't worry. It will be fine just sit tight."

Chapter 3
Ruturaj was surprised to see Abhay Mokashi. He started thinking 'I always imagined lawyer will look like an old age man. With less hair on head and with white beard. But he is so young, can he handle any defense case?'  
"Hello Mr. Gupta, I am Abhay. I passed my law degree in 2007. And from past 4 years I am practicing. Wanted to apply for prosecution lawyer post but unfortunately I couldn't make it. So started my business. Anyways tell me what happened if you don’t have any questions for me." 
Ruturaj told him what was told to him. 
"Okay .. seems Abhiram unknowingly got involved in this case. There shouldn't be a problem to get bail and take him out of custody. It's very late now to go to police station. Let me call them to check if I can go there and get some papers to start to work on this case." Abhay was talking with confidence in his eyes. 
"Hello, this is Abhay Mokashi. I got case of Abhiram Sharma. Can I get some information now if I came to police station". 
Ruturaj got impressed with his accent. Abhay was stern and confident. He must have got positive answer because of which he stood from his rolling chair while talking on phone. "Hey, I need to go to police station. I will call you if I need anything. You may leave now. And be calm, I know you are tensed with this situation." 
"Yes, I am tired, I haven't taken any food since afternoon. I have never gone to Police Station except for passport inquiry and today I spent half a day in Police station for Murder case!" Ruturaj started thinking again .. 
"Hey...  you alright?" Ruturaj came back to present tense with this question. 
"Yes ..yes... I am starving .. can we get something to eat and then go to police station if you don't mind" .... Ruturaj didn't know lawyer asked him to go home and take rest. Abhay ignored his ignorance and agreed with him. They stopped at McDonald on JM road. Abhay ordered two chicken burgers and diet coke. Ruturaj was searching for vacant table. Abhay came towards him with 2 parcels in one hand and two paper mug tray in other hand. "Hey, lets seat in car, we can talk. I need to tell you few things. And we can enjoy nice music also .. ". 
"Your description gives me a picture of innocent Abhiram. He didn't know that his friend is playing game him. What I can see is Abhiram financed for planned murder. And while investigating, police find one clue from phone call of planned meeting to transfer cash funds. In legal terms, Police doesn't have any proof of direct involvement of Abhiram in murder crime. And being present at meeting place can't be a reason for his arrest. And luckily Abhiram was not having money when he got caught. So this should be easy to get him out.  Just we can be in trouble for phone calls. This can be used to prove Abhiram's relation with Murder case. So his friend is the key to prove Abhiram is innocent. Anyways .. Abhiram will get bail easily. And I also need to talk to him tomorrow once he gets out."
Abhay was explaining things to Ruturaj. 
"Okay, that's good." Ruturaj kept reply short.
 "And about my fees, I charge 10K for single meeting. You can assign me on this case if you want. I will take total fee of 25K for first hearing. I hope this case shouldn't go more than 2-3 hearings. And I accept cheques." Abhay was showing his marketing skills by impressing Ruturaj with case details and telling fees after that. 
"okay, I will give cheque tomorrow I don't have it with me right now, I hope this should be fine with you." Ruturaj was keeping replies short as he was very tired.
"Okay, no problem. And one thing if you want we can hire one investigator to find out Abhiram's friend and his details. My investigator takes 5K fee for one case. If you want I will negotiate it to 3K". 
"That should be fine .. " Ruturaj didn't bother to say anything other than this.

They both reached Deccan Police station after 10 mins drive from McDonald. Abhay signed  some papers. He took investigation reports from inspector Khanvilkar. He shook hand with him. "Hey Ruturaj, Abhiram can get out tomorrow morning. Sorry, he needs to be in custody tonight. We need to have Judge's sign on bail papers as he is charged under a murder case. This is a non-bail able offence. So we need to prove in front of judge that Abhiram is not involved in this murder. I will do it tomorrow morning. And will come here to take Abhiram out of lockup, let’s go home now, Good night Ruturaj".
"Good night ..  Can you please drop me at Deccan Bus stop if possible"
"Yeah, sure".
They both ensconced in Abhay's car. Ruturaj was sitting on front seat. He saw file kept on dashboard. "Is this file is having all police investigation documents?" Ruturaj asked the lawyer. "Yes, with all details of charges they are putting on Abhiram", Lawyer answered. "So this will have Abhiram’s statement? "
"Yes, of course".
Ruturaj opened investigation file, he started reading Abhiram's statement. It was same as he was told by Abhiram. But in addition to that it was having Abhiram's friend's name and address with his occupation.
Ruturaj was surprised as he didn't ask Abhiram who is this friend.
"Abhay, I know Abhiram's friend !!"
"You know him?"
"Yes, I didn't ask Abhiram about his friend, but I just read his details in Abhiram's statement. You were telling me something about investigator. Can I join him? Probably I can also give some information to him." Ruturaj was excited suddenly after reading name of friend.

 Chapter 4

"Your Honor, to start this case I will mention murder case for which Deccan police handcuffed Abhiram if you permit to do so." Veena Rao prosecution lawyer opened case with her soft and sweet voice.
"Go ahead" - Judge replied.
"Vikram Rai, well known businessman was murdered on a party day. He got new contract for constructing India's largest mall. So he decided to give party to all friends who helped him getting this contract. In that party, somebody poisoned Vikram. Our investigation shows he drunk a drink having poison. We didn't find any other glass with poison. Postmortem report shows Vikram never handled poison with his hands. So he on his own didn't mix poison in his glass. So there should be somebody else who mixed it. Police department interviewed all his invitees for party. Abhiram was one of the invitees."

Abhay and Ruturaj were looking at each other. They were shocked. Abhay whispered in Ruturaj's ear "God Damn, Police investigation file was not having this!!"
Ruturaj was thinking something different ...

Veena Rao continued ... "This is his interview sheet, we didn't find anything suspicious in his interview. And day before yesterday we got information about a meeting with respect to Vikram's murder. Vikram's name was mentioned in mail with his bank details. On same day, after we traced this mail, 10 crores transferred from Vikram's account to Vilas Gupta's account. We tapped Vilas Gupta's phone and we came to know he is giving hard cash to somebody on Deccan stand. Police went there to keep tab and take custody of this big amount. There Abhiram was waiting, when we approached him he started running away. Police fired bullet and arrested him. See this file having permission to tap Vilas's phone, and arrest report."

Ruturaj again whispered "10 crores!! this is going hard ... real hard.. "
Abhiram's face turned white after listening to prosecution lawyer. He was afraid now.

"That's it from my side your honor." Veena Rao finished prosecution opening statement.

"Your Honor, Prosecution is accusing my client for a murder case, they don't have proof to prove it." Abhay was firing his gun now on defense opening statement in regional court where he applied for bail. He continued, "This is very clear, being caught at meeting location will not prove anything. There are so many people we can see on Deccan Stand. And Sorry to say but police depart has not given me Vikram's murder case file. They just handed me file of Abhiram's arrest. So I believe this hearing should be limited only for my client's arrest. I can't counter argue on his presence at Vikram's party. But we need to concentrate on one thing, prosecution is not showing any proof if Abhiram is murderer. Police Department is not having any evidence because they are not showing finger print report to court. And as my dear friend didn't mentioned about match of finger prints taken on glass with my client's finger prints. So without any evidence they want to keep my client in custody. He should get bail for this. And police department should summon defense if they are putting case of Vikram's murder on my client. Documents of my client's arrest filled right now are for only for money handover." Abhay took over all attention now. He defeated prosecution lawyer with his cards.
Abhiram and Ruturaj looked relaxed now. Ruturaj was confused, he wanted to be happy but something was bothering him now.
'10 crores !! Abhi told me 1 Lakh !! I need to check with him first on this' Ruturaj lost in his thoughts ...

"Okay, I approve Abhiram's bail. But he needs to go to Police station whenever they call him." Judge announced.

"Abhiram and Ruturaj, I give you 30 mins. Do what you want to do in this 30 mins. Meet me after 30 mins in my office. I need to talk to you both. If you came late I won't take this case. I want to know everything from start. I will need your complete day if you want me on this case" Abhay was aggressive now....


Chapter 5:

"Abhiram, I want to know everything from start. But before you start let me introduce you to my investigator Raj. I have told what I was knowing last night to Raj. He just reached here so couldn't tell anything what happened today in court. But I insist you start, Raj will get an idea what I want to mention in our discussion" Abhay ordered looking at Abhiram.
"Yes, I know Vikram Rai. Vilas my friend works for him. On party day, I went there with Vilas. And I left party before Vikram died. I met to Vikram. I put a proposal of garment stall in his new mall. I thought we can make good money if we get entry to his mall."
Abhay interrupted Abhiram, "Tell me about Vilas.. he is the rascal who dig grave for you!"
"I know Vilas from college days. He is pretty trustworthy. So I lent him 1 Lakh rupees six months ago. He told me he will return it in 1 year. But he called me on yesterday and told to come at Deccan and he told me he will give me 80K now and 20K after some time. I went there and when police came to me he sent me message. See this message". He took out his cell and handed over to Raj.
"Did you ever asked him why he needs 1 Lakh?" Abhay didn't want any break in discussion.
"No, I felt little odd to ask this.." Abhiram replied.
Abhay nodded and started noting down something on his write pad.
"Do you know what he does?, where he works? if he has taken money from any other person?" Abhay restarted questioning.
"No, I am afraid. I know him from college days. I met him once in alumni meet in college. And we started meeting after that. He lives near to me, so he used to come on my terrace where we have drinks party. Once I asked him where he works. He told me some construction institution name. And he told me he is going to start his own business of construction design."
"Raj, you need to find him. Probably police department must have started looking for him. We need him, he is the key to open door to get out of this. Abhiram, did you ever speak with Vikram before party?"
"Yes, on call. Vilas introduced me with him over phone call. I asked him if I can meet him for this proposal. He told me to come to party. So I went there with Vilas."
"Did you come to know about this mall from Vilas?"
"Yes".
"Ok, Ruturaj you can join Raj for his task. Abhiram you should go home. We are pretty good. We should come out of this. Judge has decided to keep hearing tomorrow to check if prosecution can file murder case against Abhiram. We need to prove them Abhiram was unknown about Vilas's intentions. And let police department investigate further with Vilas."
Abhay concluded this meeting.

Raj and Ruturaj went to given address. Initially they decided to keep tab on Vilas's house. So they both remained seated in car. They kept their eyes on Vilas's house door, balcony, windows for almost 30 mins. No movement observed in his house. After 30 mins Raj told Ruturaj to be in car, and he went up to Vilas's house. Vilas's house was locked, so he pressed bell of neighbor's house. Old lady opened the door. 
"Hello Aunty, I am Vilas's friend, do you know if Vilas went out? and when is he coming back?". Raj asked old neighbor.
"I am not sure whom are you referring to, this house belongs to Akash Nayar. There is no Vilas in our building." She replied.
Raj was shocked and was wondering what to ask now. 
"I am sorry Aunty, I think I entered in wrong building. Can I ask you one more question?"
"Okay" she said reluctantly
"Please give me 2 mins, I have my friend's photo in car. Let me take it from car. Please help me if you can identify if Akash Nayar is the friend I want to meet to. I think he must be living here with different name." Raj asked with fear of getting identified for following Vilas.
"Wait a min. Who are you? What you want? I can't help you." Old lady was about to shut the door. 
"Aunty, please listen to me, I am a private investigator. I am working on one case. I got this address of Vilas. So I want you to identify him if he is living here with different name. Please aunty .. please ... " Raj started pleading for help. 
She waited for 2 secs and opened door again. Raj went downstairs and climbed stairs with Vilas's photograph. He was thinking in his mind 'Thank god I downloaded Vilas's photo from Abhiram's Orkut account. And Ruturaj confirmed that photo of Vilas.'
"Yes, he is Akash Nayar. I don't know if he uses his name as Vilas. He is living here from past 6 months. He told he works for some construction company. He used to come very late at night. But I never felt he will do anything wrong. Strange ... " She was talking freely with Raj and Ruturaj now.
"Aunty, when you saw him last?" Raj asked old lady.
"I think I saw him day before yesterday. He was carrying large bag. I thought he is going out of city." 
"Did you see him after that?" Raj was asking questions in hurry.
"No, I don't think he came back" She replied with sigh after answer, which indicated she wanted to end this question-answer session. 
"Thank you Aunty!" Raj got up. Signaled Ruturaj to get up quickly.

"Raj, I think there is some connection of last 6 months period, Abhiram lent 1 Lakh to Vilas 6 months ago. I think he must have used them to pay deposit of this flat" Ruturaj was giving his thoughts while going down the stairs. They came back to car. 
"Just a minute" Raj started climbing stairs again. He banged on old lady's door. 
"Aunty, extremely sorry to bother you again. Who is owner of this flat? Can I get contact number?" Raj was breathing heavily. 
"yes, I am owner of this flat" She answered.
"What!! Ok tell me if Vilas or Abhay gave you deposit of 1 Lakh 6 months ago?"
"No, he payed 80K for deposit, and 20K for one month rent" 
"How he payed it to you, by cheque or cash?"
"Cash, his one friend came on that day, I don't remember his name."
Raj took out his cell and handed it to her "Is this guy came to you to give you money?"
"Yes, probably yes. On that day he was with his sunglasses so I'm not 100% sure. And this happened 6 Months ago .. and ...."
"Okay.. thanks Aunty.." Raj interrupted her and Raj came downstairs in few seconds.
He looked at Ruturaj with grin on his face .. "You are right man ... you are right...."

Chapter 6:

"Tell me what heppened, why you are so excited?" Abhay asked Raj after 2 mins since at their meeting place.
"Abhay, we are clear. Prosecution wants to put case against Abhiram for financing murder of Vikram Rai. But he has not given money to Vilas for murder. He lent it for deposit and rent amount for Vilas's house." Raj explained what he got from old lady.
"Are you sure? how we can prove this in court?"
"I am an investigator not lawyer man! I can get you witness who will testify that Abhiram gave 1 Lakh rupees for Vilas's house rent. Then ball would be in your court. You think how to bat."
"Ahhh, Okay. I got you. So you got witness. Can we go and meet witness today? I need to explain some things to witness and I don't want any surprises as we got today"
"Yes sure. Let me call and take her appointment" Raj first time mentioned witness is lady.

Raj and Abhay went to meet old lady. Ruturaj went home to take rest he was chasing things from last 30 Hours. Abhiram was sleeping at his home. Probably he was assured with his lawyer's confidence or it might be tiredness he had in custody.

Sun started setting, Ruturaj called Abhay for status. Abhay explained him how is going to handle case next morning also he told he has submitted witness list to prosecution. Abhay was confidant. He had his card in his pocket and he knew prosecution can't put case of murder for paying house rent of a person who may be involved in murder. This was simple, this was clear. Abhay was sure, he gonna win his first individual case. Alas he was happy with his thoughts.

Next day morning, Abhay, Abhiram, Ruturaj met in his office. They went to court in Abhay's car. Abhay called Raj and checked status if witness left from home. He got affirmative answer.

"Your Honor, I would like to call Mrs. Jagdale, owner of Vilas's house as my first witness" Abhay started with testimonies of witnesses after initial process in court.
Mrs. Jagdale came and stood in witness box.
"Mrs. Jagdale you own this house where person with name Vilas or Akash who so ever was living?" Abhay started testimony.
"Yes"
"By any chance, did you know this person before you rent your house?"
"No, he came to me after reading Ad in news paper."
"Do you know Abhiram, person who is sitting there?"
"Yes, he came with 1 Lakh rupees to give for Akash's deposit and rent"
"Your Honor, Abhiram never financed for Vikram's murder. He lent money to Vilas for house deposit and rent. This file is having all documents if House Ownership, lease agreement, Rent receipts. On deposit receipt Abhiram has signed. So this proves Abhiram never financed money for murder. And Abhiram went there on Deccan Bus stand to get his money back from Vilas. And Abhiram was unknown of the fact that Vilas would give him his money stolen from Vikram's account. So this is clear, Abhiram is not involved in murder case. And I request you to declare my client not guilty in Vikram Rai's murder case"
Abhay finished with his first witness, he asked prosecution for cross examination.

Veena Roy took charge and she tried to ask questions like "Are you sure he is the same guy you saw on that day.." But prosecution side was already dented with Mrs. Jagdale's testimony.

After prosecution finished cross examination, Abhiram declared his next witness would be Abhiram himself.

Ruturaj and Abhiram were little surprised because Abhay never told them that Abhiram needs to testify.
"Abhiram, please explain what happened on the day of your arrest."
Abhiram started explaining all things as he told in his interview sheet.
"I got message from Vilas that he will return my 80K today at Deccan Bus Stop. And remaining 20K after some days. I went there at 12:00 Afternoon. And was waiting for him to come. Suddenly some police men came and held me. Then I got message from Vilas that he can see me and these are fake police so run away. And then I started running away on bike. They fired bullet on my bike tyre. I tried to dodge it but bike slipped off the road. I fell down."
"Have you shown this message to Police in interrogation?" Abhay interrupted him."Yes."
"Your honor, this is much more clear now. Abhiram is innocent. He lent money to Vilas being honest friend. And he was not aware if Vilas was involved in murder. I again request you to declare my client not guilty"
Abhay was impressive with his speech. He wanted to call inspector Sumant Khanvilkar for testimony but he avoided to avoid any further discussion on how Abhiram ran away. Abhay was playing smart, he didn't want Judge to hear his client ran away from police.

"That's it from my side, I would like to request prosecution to go for cross if they want to" Abhay finished his play with sarcasm in his tone.

"No questions" - Veena Roy replied. With her reply it was clear prosecution left hope of getting custody of Abhiram for murder case. Or probably they wanted some more time for investigation as prosecution mentioned in their form submitted in court.

"Evidence shows Abhiram lent money to his friend. And he was not aware if his friend is involved in murder. So I declare Abhiram not guilty for lending money for Vikram Rai's murder. I request Police Department to investigate more on Vikram Rai's murder." Judge announced.

Abhiram was happy, he was about to cry in joy. He gave hug to Ruturaj and told him "I owe you big time ... thank you friend .. thank you very much ..."
"hey, congrats .. I knew you are innocent and so I helped you dear." Ruturaj explained him.
Abhay approached Ruturaj and Abhiram, he handed over his bill. "Raj gonna take only 2K for his investigation as he thinks Ruturaj cracked this case down... ha ha ha .."
"Abhay, can you come at my house tonight .. we can have big party ... " Abhiram invited his lawyer.
"Hey Abhi, I am too tired today to hang out.. I haven't slept for 2 nights man...I was tensed. Can we make it tomorrow if you and Abhay don't have any problem" Ruturaj requested him.
"Yeah sure .. so we will meet tomorrow evening .. right?  .. and Abhay I will pay your bill there .. so you will come there atleast to take your fee .. ha ha ha" Abhiram laughed.

Chapter 7:

Ruturaj called Abhay next day morning.

"Abhay, this is Ruturaj. You got some time? I need to meet you."

"Yes. I am free today. Let's meet at my office. But what happened? you sound tensed" Abhay replied.

"will tell you when I meet you in 30 mins." Ruturaj cut the phone line. He was thinking of something. Something was wrong in this case ...

Ruturaj reached Abhay's office in time. He entered his office. He was surprised to see Raj also sitting with Abhay.

"Hey, Ruturaj. Good Morning .. what happened man?" Raj welcomed him.

"Abhay, something is wrong. I wanted to ask Abhiram first but then I thought I should check with you"

"Tell me what you want to check"

"First thing, Abhi showed us message he got from Vilas. Right?" Ruturaj started asking Raj and Abhay.
"Yes, right" Abhay replied.
"Sender name for that message on Abhi's cell phone was as Akash Nayar !!"
"What !! why you didn't ask Abhiram that time?" Abhay was surprised and was exclaimed with what he was hearing.
"Yes, I didn't ask because I noticed it but till that moment I was not sure if this Akash Nayar name was connected anyway to our case. And with all other discussion I forgot this somehow." Ruturaj was explaining how he forgot to mention this before hand.

"And this thing striked in my mind when Vilas's owner said Abhi signed rent and deposit reciept. Becuase if Abhi has signed rent reciept then he should know that Vilas is staying there with name as Akash Nayar. Right"

"Yes man, you are right." Raj started thinking for any other loops in Abhiram's testimony
"One more thing, Abhiram told in his testimony that he got message from Vilas that day morning to meet at Deccan!" Raj showed that line from file of case testimony print.
"And according to police record, they traced call with Vilas and so they find Abhiram at meeting point." Abhay was whispering now ... "Abhiram is lying ... something he is hiding .. something is wrong with him ... " Abhay finally spoke out pointing his first finger to testimony file.

"Should we call Instector?" Ruturaj asked Abhay.
"No. wait .. this case is closed. On legal front we have proved Abhiram is not involved anyway in this money handover. So now inspector doesn't have any proof to catch him again." Abhay replied his answer.

"So what we should do? I suspect Abhi is misusing company funds if he is involved in this money transfer. I want to investigate on this further. I want to save my ass from any kind of fraud. I cant bear any debt caused by Abhi's foolishness." Ruturaj was frustrated now.

"Do you have any bank document which shows this?" Abhay asked him.
"No". Ruturaj answered with more frustration.

"Then you can't blame or report inspector to investigate. I hope you are understanding what I am telling. You need base to put case on Abhiram." Abhay was trying to explain Ruturaj how things work.

"But we can tell Inspector about these things. right?" Ruturaj gave expression as Abhay is forgetting this point.

"But my friend court has accepted this statement. So inspector can't go back and catch him on basis of testimony and rent receipt which is already accepted by court. And yes we proved this to court!" Abhay was telling him how helpless they were.

"Okay! so will you guys work for me to find if Abhi is cheating me and company?" Ruturaj asked both Abhay and Raj.

Raj replied "affirmative" without seeing Abhay's reaction.

Abhay thought for two or more seconds and replied "Okay ....".

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Murderer, Money, Fraud, Motive and every other link is covered in next part of this story. :) 
Will publish Second part soon, Stay tuned !