Errors in Measurement System....

An error may be defined as the difference between the measured value and the actual value. For example, if the two operators use the same device or instrument for finding the errors in measurement, it is not necessary that they may get the similar results. There may be a difference between both measurements. The difference that occurs between both the measurements is referred to as an ERROR.

Sequentially, to understand the concept of errors in measurement, you should know the two terms that define the error. They are true value and measured value. The true value is impossible to find out the truth of quantity by experimental means. It may be defined as the average value of an infinite number of measured values. Measured value can be defined as the estimated value of true value that can be found by taking several measured values during an experiment.

Types of Errors in Measurement System

Generally errors are classified into three types: systematic errors, random errors and blunders.

1) Gross Errors
2) Blunders
3) Measurement Errors

Systematic Errors

• Instrumental Errors
• Environmental Errors
• Observational Errors 
• Theoretical Errors

Random Errors

Types of Errors in Measurement System

1) Gross Errors

Gross errors are caused by mistake in using instruments or meters, calculating measurement and recording data results. The best example of these errors is a person or operator reading pressure gage 1.01N/m2 as 1.10N/m2. It may be due to the person’s bad habit of not properly remembering data at the time of taking down reading, writing and calculating, and then presenting the wrong data at a later time. This may be the reason for gross errors in the reported data, and such errors may end up in calculation of the final results, thus deviating results.

2) Blunders

Blunders are final source of errors and these errors are caused by faulty recording or due to a wrong value while recording a measurement, or misreading a scale or forgetting a digit while reading a scale. These blunders should stick out like sore thumbs if one person checks the work of another person. It should not be comprised in the analysis of data.

3) Measurement Error

The measurement error is the result of the variation of a measurement of the true value. Usually, Measurement error consists of a random error and systematic error. The best example of the measurement error is, if electronic scales are loaded with 1kg standard weight and the reading is 10002grams, then

The measurement error is = (1002grams-1000grams) =2grams

Measurement Errors are classified into two types: systematic error and random errors

Systematic Errors

The Systematic errors that occur due to fault in the measuring device are known as systematic errors. Usually they are called as Zero Error – a positive or negative error. These errors can be detached by correcting the measurement device. These errors may be classified into different categories.

Systematic Errors

In order to understand the concept of systematic errors, let us classify the errors as:

• Instrumental Errors
• Environmental Errors
• Observational Errors
• Theoritical

Instrumental Errors

Instrumental errors occur due to wrong construction of the measuring instruments. These errors may occur due to hysteresis or friction. These types of errors include loading effect and misuse of the instruments. In order to reduce the gross errors in measurement, different correction factors must be applied and in the extreme condition instrument must be recalibrated carefully.

Environmental Errors

The environmental errors occur due to some external conditions of the instrument. External conditions mainly include pressure, temperature, humidity or due to magnetic fields. In order to reduce the environmental errors

• Try to maintain the humidity and temperature constant in the laboratory by making some arrangements.
• Ensure that there shall not be any external electrostatic or magnetic field around the instrument.

Observational Errors

As the name suggests, these types of errors occurs due to wrong observations or reading in the instruments particularly in case of energy meter reading. The wrong observations may be due to PARALLAX. In order to reduce the PARALLAX error highly accurate meters are needed: meters provided with mirror scales.

Theoretical Errors

Theoretical errors are caused by simplification of the model system. For example, a theory states that the temperature of the system surrounding will not change the readings taken when it actually does, then this factor will begin a source of error in measurement.

Random Errors

Random errors are caused by the sudden change in experimental conditions and noise and tiredness in the working persons. These errors are either positive or negative. An example of the random errors is during changes in humidity, unexpected change in temperature and fluctuation in voltage. These errors may be reduced by taking the average of a large number of readings.

Random Errors

Measurement Error Calculation

There are several ways to make a reasonable measurement error calculation such as estimating random errors and estimating systematic errors.

Estimating Random Errors

There are a number of ways to make a reasonable estimate of the random error in a particular measurement. The best way is to make a series of measurements of a given quantity (say, x) and calculate the mean and standard deviation (x ̅  & σ_x ) from this data.

The mean x ̅   is defined as

Where, Xi is the result of the i th measurements

‘N’ is the number of measurements

The standard variation is given by

If a measurement is repeated many times, then 68% of the measured valves will drop in the range  x ̅ ± σ_x

We become more positive that , is an accurate representation of the true value of the quantity x ̅ . The standard deviation of the mean σ_x is defined as

σ_(x ̅  )=σ_x⁄√N

The quantity σ_x is a good estimate of our uncertainty in  x ̅.  Notice that the measurement precision increases in proportion to √N  as we increase the number of measurements. The following example will clarify these ideas. Assume you made the following five measurements of a length:

Error Calculations

Therefore, the result is 22.84±.08mm

In some cases, it is hardly useful to repeat a measurement many times. In that situation, you can estimate frequently the error by taking account of the smallest division of the measuring instrument.

For example, when using a meter stick, one can measure, perhaps a half or sometimes even a fifth of a millimeter. So, the absolute error would be estimated to be around 0.5 mm or 0.2 mm.

STATIC & DYNAMIC CHARACTERISTICS OF MEASUREMENT SYSTEM

The performance characteristics of an instrument are mainly divided into two categories:

i) Static characteristics

ii) Dynamic characteristics

Static characteristics:

The set of criteria defined for the instruments, which are used to measure the quantities which are slowly varying with time or mostly constant, i.e., do not vary with time, is called ‘static characteristics’.

The various static characteristics are:

i) Accuracy

ii) Precision

iii) Sensitivity

iv) Linearity

v) Reproducibility

vi) Repeatability

vii) Resolution

viii) Threshold

ix) Drift

x) Stability

xi) Tolerance

xii) Range or span

Accuracy:

It is the degree of closeness with which the reading approaches the true value of the quantity to be measured. The accuracy can be expressed in following ways:

a) Point accuracy:

Such accuracy is specified at only one particular point of scale.
It does not give any information about the accuracy at any other Point on the scale.

b) Accuracy as percentage of scale span:

When an instrument as uniform scale, its accuracy may be expressed in terms of scale range.

c) Accuracy as percentage of true value:

The best way to conceive the idea of accuracy is to specify it in
terms of the true value of the quantity being measured. Precision: It is the measure of reproducibility i.e., given a fixed value of a quantity, precision is a measure of the degree of agreement within a group of measurements. The precision is composed of two characteristics:

a) Conformity:

Consider a resistor having true value as 2385692 , which is being measured by an ohmmeter. But the reader can read consistently, a value as 2.4 M due to the nonavailability of proper scale. The error created due to the limitation of the scale reading is a precision error.

b) Number of significant figures:

The precision of the measurement is obtained from the number of significant figures, in which the reading is expressed. The significant figures convey the actual information about the magnitude & the measurement  precision of the quantity. The precision can be mathematically expressed as:

Where, P = precision
Xn = Value of nth measurement
Xn = Average value the set of measurement values

Sensitivity:

The sensitivity denotes the smallest change in the measured variable to which the instrument responds. It is defined as the ratio of the changes in the output of an instrument to a change in the value of the quantity to be measured. Mathematically it is expressed as,

Thus, if the calibration curve is liner, as shown, the sensitivity of the instrument is the slope of the calibration curve. If the calibration curve is not linear as shown, then the sensitivity varies with the input. Inverse sensitivity or deflection factor is defined as the reciprocal of sensitivity. Inverse sensitivity or deflection factor = 1/ sensitivity

Reproducibility:

It is the degree of closeness with which a given value may be repeatedly measured. It is specified in terms of scale readings over a given period of time.

Repeatability:

It is defined as the variation of scale reading & random in nature Drift:
Drift may be classified into three categories:

a) zero drift:

If the whole calibration gradually shifts due to slippage, permanent set, or due to undue warming up of electronic tube circuits, zero drift sets in.

b) span drift or sensitivity drift

If there is proportional change in the indication all along the upward scale, the drifts is called span drift or sensitivity drift.

c) Zonal drift:

In case the drift occurs only a portion of span of an instrument, it is called zonal drift.

Resolution:

If the input is slowly increased from some arbitrary input value, it will again be found that output does not change at all until a certain increment is exceeded. This increment is called resolution.

Threshold:

If the instrument input is increased very gradually from zero there will be some minimum value below which no output change can be detected. This minimum value defines the threshold of the instrument.

Stability:

It is the ability of an instrument to retain its performance throughout is
specified operating life.

Tolerance:

The maximum allowable error in the measurement is specified in terms of some value which is called tolerance.

Range or span:

The minimum & maximum values of a quantity for which an instrument is designed to measure is called its range or span.

Dynamic characteristics:

The set of criteria defined for the instruments, which are changes rapidly with time, is called ‘dynamic characteristics’.
The various static characteristics are:
i) Speed of response
ii) Measuring lag
iii) Fidelity
iv) Dynamic error

Speed of response:

It is defined as the rapidity with which a measurement system responds to changes in the measured quantity.

Measuring lag:

It is the retardation or delay in the response of a measurement system to changes in the measured quantity. The measuring lags are of two types:

a) Retardation type:

In this case the response of the measurement system begins immediately after the change in measured quantity has occurred.

b) Time delay lag:

In this case the response of the measurement system begins after a dead time after the application of the input. Fidelity: It is defined as the degree to which a measurement system indicates changes in the measurand quantity without dynamic error.

Dynamic error:

It is the difference between the true value of the quantity changing with time & the value indicated by the measurement system if no static error is assumed. It is also called measurement error.

A Cute Love story - Episode 8...!!!

I said, "Nethra, please don't talk non sense. Adithi and Mithra are the same to me. I trust God. You'll come back. You're the only one in my life"

She said, "A woman would love to hear this from her husband. I would be happy if I survive. Arjun, I love you, I wanna live with you in your love for infinite years. When I wanted to die I was saved and now when I wanna live I'm gonna die. I had repugnance towards life until you came into my life. I never thought love can be so good. You taught me what love is, what happiness is and what life is. You changed my seasons; you gave me reasons to smile, to laugh, to love and to live.

Now I like this life and I don't want to die so early. I never got what I wanted. The life with you till now is what I have been longing and yearning for all the days of my life. Parents like your parents, a husband like you who holds me in the palms of his hand and protects me like an apple of his eyes, children like you and me. I don't wanna die but live Arjun, I want to live this life. I want to live with you"

Sobbing she continued, "Whatever it is, God bless you and thanks a lot for you gave me a life in heaven. Though I don't want to die, I will still be happy if ill fate takes me because I lived a life to my heart's content"

As she was saying this, mom entered and I said, "Mom, she is scared to death and I can't console her or give her confidence"

Mom took her hands in hers and said, "Nethra, I spoke to the doctors they said this hospital is equipped with the latest instruments and the best doctors in town. You don't have to be scared or worried. As desired I'm gonna see my grandchild soon. After few years you're gonna give me another grandchild and I'm gonna raise them up. Don't worry about anything. Put your trust in God" saying this she kissed her forehead and stroked her gently.

I know my mom's kiss pacifies her and she was calm and said to me, "Please be with me"

I said, "It is my duty and responsibility to be with you in times of trouble and pain. Don't worry I'll be with you"

A couple of nurses brought the stretchers and took her to the operation theatres. I was with her holding her hands till she became unconscious. I wanted to cry aloud, I needed somebody to console me saying "She'll be safe" I had never felt like this before. Though Mom, Adithi and Mithra were present, nobody had the guts or courage to talk to be me as I was so depressed and dejected.

Little later I heard the cry of my little one; few minutes passed and a nurse came out; she placed my little one in my hands and said "It's a girl" I was happy yet I was looking at her with lots of queries and expectation for news about Nethra but without saying anything she left the place.

I kissed my little angel and hugged her to my bosom and held her tightly. She shook her body and her little hand hit my chest. I felt like she was consoling me, I felt like she's saying "It's alright dad, everything's gonna be fine soon. Mom is gonna comeback alive" I felt a great consolation and it's an unrivalled solace too. There is no match for the consolation, comfort and confidence she gave me that moment.

No one can ever give it again.

I felt happy and I blindly trusted that Nethra will come back.

Sometime later the doctor patted my back and said she's safe and out of danger.

I went near her and I wept with joy, it was such an emotion that I can't express in words but it can only be felt. The fear just vanished and I felt so... so good and happy. She woke up and smiling she asked, "Where is mom?" I kissed her forehead and said, it is a girl and mom is busy with her granddaughter. Wait I'll call her" saying this I ran to the veranda and called my mom. She came in along with Adithi and Mithra and gave my little angel to her and asked her to feed her.

Nethra took her, kissed her and fed her. Adithi and Mithra enquired about her health. My mom said, "I'm very happy to see both of you out of danger"

Nethra said, "Mom, you have to raise her up, wise, loving, patient, caring, affectionate, mischievous and naughty like Arjun. Teach her the rich heritage and cultural values of our country; specially the values of a family. Teach us parenting as well"

Mom said, "Sure and she left the room" with Adithi and Mithra.

She asked me to sit on the cot and she gave her to me. As I took my little one from Nethra, her hand got caught in Nethra's mangal sutra.

As Nethra was took out her hand she said, "Love gives meaning to everything even metals and stones"

I held her in one bosom and my little angel on the other and asked, "What does it mean to you?"

She said, "It means love and life. I love you. Arjun for this love you shower on me, my heart says you can do anything for this Man. I'm a slave to your love"

I kissed and said, "Love you too. You're not a slave but my queen" and looking at my little girl I said, "She is my little princess" As I said this, my little girl gave a small smile for a micro second with her tiny lips as if she was hearing to our conversation. I asked, so what shall we christen our angel?"

Nethra said, "POORNA"

Smiling I said, "My mother's name, lovely, but how will we address her"

She said, "Yeah, mom's name because POORNA means complete and fullness. Your mother and our daughter make our lives complete and let's fondly call her as Cuckoo or tweety"

I said, "Great, she'll be our little mom from now on"

Holding both of my angels on either of my bosom is one of the loveliest moments in my life.

A Cute Love story - Episode 7..!!!

She said, "Hold on I'm not yet done"

I said, "Bad girl, you don't know the rules of the game, you should hide before the counting ends"

I heard the sound of her anklets nearing me and her sweet perfume smell hit my nostrils. I felt her untying my hands as she was saying, "Is it, I'm sorry I don't know the rule"

She untied my hands and wrapped it around something, when I was trying to find it out what is in between my hands I felt something rolling my head. Before I could think of what was happening, I felt soft air brushing my ears and I heard her say "I LOVE YOU"

Next morning we woke up late, she was lying on my chest and her face was vivacious like a just blossomed rose. I stroked her head and said, "I loved the hide and seek game. Did you?" she murmured, "Hmmm, I liked it too"

I called my mom and after usual enquires I said, "Mom, the night dress was awesome; Thanks, nice selection" she gave a surprised look and grabbed the receiver from me and said, "mom, was it your selection? Hmmm anyway your idea was excellent and it worked out well, thanks a lot, we had a nice time" now I was shocked and grabbed the receiver from her and asked, "Mom, was the game your idea?" on the other end she said, "Turn on the speaker"

I turned it on and she continued, "I'm glad to know that both of you had a nice time. I just helped you people to start your family life as both of you were hesitating, scared and shy to take the initiative and from now on you can take it further. Relationships are fragile and need to be handled with care. Take this as a statement for life. Life is beautiful, enjoy it against the odds that come your way, be happy, make others happy and spread the happiness wherever you go. All the best, Have a happy honeymoon. Take care, bye"

Both of us together said, "Bye Mom"

After the call she said, "I love the way your parents handle things"

I said, "Yeah, even I love the way they raised Adithi and me. I'll tell you some instances. When I was studying 10th standard, I got attracted to a girl near our house. My scores were going down and I was becoming dull and restless. My dad identified these changes and one day he took me out to a restaurant and ordered for a beer for himself and asked if I wanted a beer.

I said, "Maybe yes" he ordered one for me and said, "This is not the official age to taste beer but temptations start at this age. The more you control the more you are tempted and tried so let's taste it. Moreover beer has less alcohol content when compared to other liquors. Everything is good when it is within limits"

The waiter got the beer and as we were taking it he said, "Arjun, I am glad that you are within the pass % in your studies but overall score is going down. What's troubling you?"

I didn't want to hide so I said, "Dad, I like the girl who is staying near our house. She is always on my mind"

He asked, "Is she studying in your class?"

I said, "No, she is doing her UG"

He said, "That's fine, age is not a matter at all. But you should think one thing. If your studies are going bad your future will be taken for a raid. Even if you are serious on this, it would be difficult for me to approach parents for her hand in marriage. Concentrate on your studies first, get a good job and then if you still have the same feeling towards that girl, I'll talk to her parents"

I felt relaxed and peaceful. After this we became good friends. I started concentrating on my studies and slowly I realized it's not love but infatuation that I had for that girl. (As I was saying this I felt a sense of possessiveness in Nethra's face) I said, "My dear tweety bird, you don't have to worry about all these things, I just want to be frank and open with you and expect the same from you too. No man is perfect and flawless; as a wife I think you need to know about my flaws than perfections"

She said, "Okay, but I'm feeling possessive. This feeling is new to me"

I said, "That's a good sign of love as long as it is within the limit"

I continued, I even told my dad about my interest to watch a porn movie when I was 17 yrs. He said, "I appreciate that you asked me. Proper sex education is needed now with raising AIDS and other STD diseases. It's natural and common to have these kind of desires at this age but I advice you, don't watch it from any movie hall. You'll become an animal and will lose respect for the other gender. You will see them as mere objects than as human beings. I'll get you an educational CD on that" and as said he did get me a CD and after that he asked me if it was useful and my comments on it too. This freedom and easiness offered by my parents had brought me till this level and I didn't go astray. They were able to guide Adithi and me in all walks of life and gave us the freedom to share and express our feelings.

Nethra said, "I wish I was born to them"

I said, "But if you're born to them, then I wouldn't have got this lovely wife. I'm happy and feel blessed to have you as my wife" saying this I kissed her and we started off with the "Hide & Seek game" and this term has become our code word from then on.

Our honeymoon was lovely. We flew back to India. Life was going on peacefully and happily. About 6 months later Nethra gave me the good news that we are gonna have a baby and I felt so happy. My mother took care of her very well, took her for regular checkups, scans and so on.

Nethra was very scared and she said, "I'm very much afraid" I said, "Don't be scared, stay calm and be comfortable. Check with mom if you have doubts" whatever I said and however I consoled her she grew restless day after day.

All of us in the family were happy until we found out that the umbilical cord is around the baby's neck during a check up in 8th month of pregnancy. The doctor said it's a risky procedure and the chances of survival are very less for the mother and the baby. Nethra got scared. She was admitted and there were few hours left for the operation.

She called me and said, "I'm scared, I think I'll not survive this operation"

My throat was shut with pain and grief with the thought of losing my loved one. I said, "No dear it is not gonna be like you think. You are gonna come back safely with a son or a daughter and we are gonna live happily"

She said, "If I die, I want you to marry Mithra"

A Cute Love story - Episode 6...!!!!

I asked, "You didn't like it?"

She said, "It's nice but"

I asked, "But"

She said, "I wanna talk to Mom in privacy; can you leave me alone?"

I said, "Okay, I'll go a walk" and left the room.

I went to the reception and made a call to my mom, my call was on waiting. She attended my call and said, "Hey Arjun, Nethra is on the other line"

I said, "Yes, I know, put me on conference without her knowledge mom"

Mom said, "That's not a good practice. Call me later I'll talk to you"

I said, "Mom, she is my wife and I need to know if she is unhappy with me"

My mom said, "It's bad, should I do it?"

I said, "Please mom" reluctantly she connected the calls and told Nethra, "Sorry dear that was an important call that's why I had put you on hold"

She said, "That's fine mom, no issues"

Mom asked, "So how was your day today? How is Arjun behaving with you?"

She started sobbing and my Mom asked, "What happened? Why are you crying? Did he force you?"

She said, "No, he is gem of a person and I'm feeling guilty I'm disappointing him, I'm not fulfilling my responsibility as a wife"

Mom said, "Thanks, for a moment I thought I have raised an animal"

She said, "No mom, he gave me a night dress as a honeymoon gift"

Mom asked, "You didn't like it"

She said, "I liked it but it is transparent and seductive. I feel shy and awkward to put it on"

Mom said, "Sweet heart listen, He is your husband and has all rights to see you like that but only if you are willing and I promise you he won't trouble you or force you. Put it on only when you're comfortable and he'll take it as a sign. My advice for you is life is beautiful enjoy it and you'll start liking this life soon. Take your time. Enjoy your honeymoon, okay"

She said, "hmmm..."

Mom said, "That's good. Good girl. Take care. Bye. Good night" and disconnected her call and asked me, "What Arjun, what is your wife saying?"

I said, "I love you mom, you handle her wisely"

Mom said, "People are more important than anything else Arjun. Relationships are more fragile; handle with care. Take care of her"

I asked, "Sure Mom. So how are you, dad, Adithi and Mithra doing?"

She said, "We all are doing fine. Enjoy your honeymoon and come back home safely. I wish your patience will be paid soon"

I said, "Thanks, I want us to be compatible people first, which is more important for a family. Am I right mom?

She said, "Yes, couples should be capable of existing together in harmony. Okay take care. Bye"

I said, "Bye, Good night" and we disconnected the call and I went to my room and knocked it.

She said, "Come in"

While entering I asked, "What did you mother-in-law say?"

She said, "Nothing, we were just talking"

I said, "Okay, I'm feeling sleepy" saying this I lay on the couch and asked her, "Can I sleep here or shall I check if another room is available"

She said, "No, you can sleep on the cot, I'll sleep on the couch"

I said, "Maybe we can take a forty winks on the couch but it is uncomfortable for an entire night's sleep so I suggest both of us sleep on the cot comfortably if you are comfy"

She said, "Okay" and we walked towards the cot as two poles and laid ourselves on both the edges facing the walls. We dozed off soon and I woke up when the hot sun's rays hit my face and found her still sleeping but she was facing me and her legs slightly wrapped on me without her knowledge. I called the room service and ordered for coffee and lay on the bed gently stroking her head as I didn't want to disturb her sleep.

She was sleeping like a baby. The name sleeping beauty was very apt for her and I wondered if the princess in the sleeping beauty fairy tale would have been as beautiful as my Nethra. In silence I asked God, Why did you put her in wrong hands instead you could have given her to me, I would have taken care of my angel. Anyway thank you lord for giving her to me. I'm happy with her.

The calling bell rang tringggggggggg...........

I opened the door and the room service personnel said, "Good morning Sir, Your coffee and newspaper. Have a nice day" saying this he left the tray on the table and left the room.

I served coffee for both of us and woke her up with a kiss on her forehead, she didn't refuse it. We started off with the days outing plan. Usually when we were together I used to do a lot of talking and she speaks very little which is contradictory to our gender. Similarly today I asked her; tell me some of the happiest moments in your life.

She said, "My world is very small. It consists of Mithra and me. Few years back 4 more people joined my world. Yet I have few happy moments to mention"

I interrupted and asked, "Don't you have your mother and father in your world?"

She sternly said, "No, I can never forgive them for ruining my childhood. Don't talk about them please, their thoughts make me angry"

I felt bad at her response and I was able to feel the pain and agony in her tone. I said, "Okay, go on with your happy moments"

She said, "I was very happy when little Mithra was born. I was extremely happy when you said; my safety is your responsibility. I saw a fatherly concern in it. I started liking you from that moment onwards. When you got food for me I found a motherly care. When you said the worst hostel food is good and you gave me your lunch so I can at least have one good meal a day; I saw your brotherly affection. When you surprised me with a gift on my birthday I saw a true friend in you. I was bountifully happy when your mother first kissed me on my forehead, Adithi's innocent chats and time spent with mom, dad, Adithi, Mithra and you are the finest moments in my life"

I said, "You have seen me as a father, mother, brother and friend but why is your heart refusing to accept me as your husband?"

She said, "It's because of my past dreadful experience which I haven't told you"

I said, "I don't want to listen to your past which will remind you of that and trouble you. I know you're innocent. All I would say is forget the past, I understand it's very hard but still try not to ruin the present with the past"

I felt happy that she spoke frankly and unusually, expressed herself. During dinner she said, "You can take liquor if you want" I said, "Not today, I don't feel like taking a drink now. When I feel like taking a drink I'll surely ask for your permission, dear. Okay?" she smiled and said, "Okay"

The second day of our honeymoon went on like this with a little improvement of sleeping together facing each other without any hesitation. She woke up early the third day. Sweet sound of her anklets woke me but I was pretending to sleep and I was observing her. She ordered for coffee and was trying to wake me up. She got her face near my face but took it back. Few moments later she came near to kiss my forehead but she didn't, I opened my eyes and said, "Leave off your shyness and kiss me dear" sheepishly smiling she said, "Good morning" and handed me a cup of coffee. I knew she started to love me but was reluctant to reveal it.

We went for the third day's outing and she started to walk holding my hands and allowed me to wrap my hands on her shoulder. There was progression in our intimacy and we captured it in the photo snaps. This day went on as usual with a little improvement of wrapping our hands and legs around each other.

Though longing and yearning welled up in my heart, I enjoyed this waiting. It was an interesting and exciting experience to make her bloom herself. The fourth day's outing went on like this and in the night she asked me, "It's boring, Can we play something?"

I said, "Okay, let me check if the billiards pool or any recreation centre is open in the hotel at this point of time"

She said, "Let's play an indoor game"

I said, "Oh, we don't have chess board or carom here. What do we play?"

She said, "Hide and seek"

I laughed loudly and said, "Hide and seek interesting. Okay who is gonna hide and who is gonna seek?"

She said, "I'm gonna hide and you're gonna seek" saying this she tied my eyes and pulled my hands to my back and tied them together.

I asked, "When was then rule changed. I know hide and seek where only eyes were tied but why hands?"

She said, "what if you take out the eye band with your hands before I hide and find out my hiding place?"

I asked, "Okay, but anyway I have to take it out myself once you're hid"

She said, "Oh yeah, I didn't think about it. Okay you start counting by the time I will hide and think on how to release your hands as well"

She said, "100"

Hmmm funny I started counting, "one, two, three.................. forty, forty one............. Seventy, seventy one.................. ninety nine, hundred. I was counting and at the same time thinking where is she gonna hide and I listed the places to check - the cupboards, under the cot, balcony, bathroom that's it. No more place to hide in the room. I asked, "Nethra, I'm done. Shall I Come?"

No response from her...

Silence!!!!!.... Silence!!!!!!.....

The Love Cute Story.. Episode 5...!!!

I interrupted and said, "Thanks, I don't want any "But". We can be friends even after marriage"

She said, "To be friends we don't need a marriage"

I said, "Very true, anyway my parents will get me married to another girl and she will become possessive and will ask me not to talk to you or meet you. I can't listen to that and she'll ask who is important Nethra or I. I'll say Nethra and she'll quarrel and my life will become more miserable. I prefer to share a life of dissension with you than to share it with someone else"

She said, "Thanks for saying that I'm important, but still I have an aversion towards marriage"

I said, "You'll get over the aversion soon. Be ready for the wedding and I'll take care of the rest"

I was happy to know that she likes me and I said to myself, "I have to make her love me too. Hmmm interesting task"

The wedding took place as per our customs and practices and everything went on well. All Our relatives left leaving 6 of us in the house which included Mom, dad, Adithi, Mithra, Nethra and I. After dinner we all sat in the sofa and watched TV and were talking about the days happenings. Adithi and Mithra went to Adithi's room to sleep. Dad asked us to go to our room and Mom accompanied us till the room.

Before she could enter the room Nethra held my mom's hand and said "Aunty, I'm scared"

Mom said, "There's nothing to be scared about. Everything will be fine soon"

She asked, "Aunty, Can I address you as Mom from now on?"

My Mom said, "No issues, you can address me as you prefer. But I am desirous to be addressed as Granny and please grant me that wish soon. Family planning is between the husband and wife. I just told you my desire" saying this she kissed her on her forehead and asked, "What does the mangal sutra mean to you now"

She said, "I don't know, I haven't thought about it. It's a custom so I'm wearing it."

Mom said, "You'll explore and discover its meaning soon" and she left the place.

I was sitting on one end of the cot and she stood at the other end. We were like the North Pole and the South Pole. She kept biting her nails and I understood that she was nervous. I beckoned her to come near and as she came I said, "Sit" and she sat on the cot.

I said, "You look perplexed and tired"

In her delirium she said, "Yeah, I'm tired, woke up early in the morning and didn't have enough sleep last night. I'm not confused but I'm wondering how am I gonna manage in a new place"

I said, "My home is not new to you"

She said, "My role as your wife makes it a new place to me"

I said, "The change is only in the role and not with anyone else"

She asked, "Did you hear what Mom said just now? She wants to become granny soon"

I said, "That's Okay, elders are like that"

She said, "I can't ignore it just like that, she is more than my mother to me. Nobody has ever loved and cared for me so much like her and I'm very grateful to her. Since I'm obliged to her it's my duty to fulfil her just and reasonable desire to become a granny but I don't know if I can do it"

I said, "That's lovely, but it's your wish. No troubles from my side. Okay I won't take much of your time. I'm tired too. I have few things to give you" Saying this I went to the cupboard and grabbed a bag to the cot. I smiled and gave a cover to her.

As she was opening it I said, "This is the college admission cards for Adithi and Mithra. They are going to study in the same college, same course and Mithra is gonna stay with us from now on. I don't want her to stay alone in the hostel and suffer in loneliness like you did"

Tears welled from her eyes; but she smiled and said, "Thanks a lot. I always loved and longed to stay with her"

I said, "It's my responsibility and handed over another cover to her saying, "This is for my beautiful wife".

She opened it and looking at the air tickets, and the broche from the tour operator for 10 day tour package she exclaimed, "Are we going to Mauritius?"

I said, "Yes, for honeymoon"

She asked, "Are we leaving tomorrow?"

I said, "Yes, pack your things and be ready. The flight is at 9.30 PM"

She said, "Hmmm...Okay"

I took out the last one and gave it to her saying, "This is a small wedding gift for my dear friend Nethra. Happy married life"

She smiled and took it from me and opened it. It was a cute white teddy carrying a red velvet heart. She was nervous and restless and having so many things on hand and mind, the teddy slipped from her hand and fell on the floor just like she dropped Cuckoo. Now the recorded voice screamed "DARLING, I LOVE YOU". With widened eyes she picked it and hugged it and looked at me with fright.

Smiling I said, "Hmmm Okay, good night, I'm gonna watch cricket. Take rest. Good night. Sweet dreams" saying this I went near the door and before I could leave I said, "I wish I was that teddy" and left to the hall switching on the TV. Slowly I slept off as I was tired too. My Mom woke me up in the morning with bed coffee and she said, "Good morning, hope you slept well. (Smiling she said)I appreciate your patience. What time is your flight?"

I said, "9. 30 pm"

She said, "Okay, pack your things and organize your trip" saying this she went to wake up Nethra.

We started off and reached Mauritius in the morning; occupied the room booked for us. Since it was booked for honeymoon the room was adorned with aromatic flowers. The look and feel of the room was extraordinary. We called our family and informed them about our safe arrival, the hotel location, room number and contact information.

We had breakfast and started off for sightseeing. Mauritius is one of the most spectacular islands of the world. The beaches of Mauritius are some of the best I ever came across. White sands and blue waters make a striking contrast that was a treat for the eyes. The climate was good and we had nice time.

Nethra was enjoying the beauty of nature and as usual I loved her company. The day went on good with fun and joy. As we were sitting in the restaurant for dinner, I asked her, "Can I take a drink?"

Shocking she looked at me and asked, "Alcohol... Liquor.... do you take liquor?"

I said, "Yes I do, occasionally"

She said, "Your wish"

I said, "Sweetheart, to do as per my wish I need not ask you. You either say yes or no because you're gonna stay with me. You should be comfortable and I don't prefer doing something that troubles you. You're my wife and I should discuss everything with you"

She said, "No, no drinking"

I said, "Okay, thank you" ordered food and as we were waiting for the food she said, "You're not like my dad"

I asked, "Why do you compare me with your dad?"

She said, "He is the first man in my life. So I thought all men will be like him. He doesn't discuss anything with my mom and similarly my mom gives him back the same. They take their own decisions on everything and it was Mithra and I who struggled between them"

I said, "A husband and wife should be like best friends to each other. There is nothing like ruling or leading the other it's just sharing life and heading together. My parents discuss every small thing right from the purchase of home appliances, investments, our education and everything. You know the next day's menu is always discussed during dinner and mom made it a practice to have dinner together"

The waiter served the dinner and after that I continued, "If dad missed a dinner that's it, his day is ruined. She'll not talk to him. He'll walk after her and beg her pardon. She will not accept it immediately, she'll hold on for some time till Adithi and I support him. Then she warns him and it's over. It will be fun watching these small plays at home and we learnt love and forgiveness from them. At the right age they involved Adithi and me in the discussion and sought our views and opinions, if our decisions were right and wise they acknowledged it and accepted it. It included our marriage too"

She said, "Yeah, I know it's fun to be in your home"

I said, "Bricks and walls make a house and it's the woman, the mother who makes it a home. My love, will you make my house a home?"

She said, "I'll try, I might fail a few times but I'll learn it from your mother. I have a request for you"

I asked, "What is it?"

She said, "I will try to change myself and live up to your expectations. Please don't leave me for any reason, I hate being alone"

I said, "I love you the way you are. You don't have to change anything for me. You are just perfect and I want you to be yourself always"

She said, "But you are changing my character. I don't talk much, but now I feel like saying all the untold that I had shut in my heart"

I said, "I'm happy to know that you are feeling at ease and comfortable with me. You can talk and do whatever you wanted to do with me okay. I love you and all you do"

She asked, "You love me so much? I don't know if I'm worth your love."

I said, "Don't speak such philosophical words" and we left to the room.

I switched on the TV and sat on the couch fiddled the remote searching for a good channel to watch while she was having a wash. I suddenly remembered about that and I took it from my bag and sat on the sofa again. She joined me on the couch to watch TV.

I asked, "How was your day today?"

She said, "It was great; Mauritius is awesome"

I said, "Yeah, I loved it" and gave her the pack saying this is my honeymoon gift for you.

She asked, "Does anybody give gifts for honeymoon?"

I asked, "Why not? Gifts are given to express love and that's what I did. I thought this will be the right time to give this gift that's why I didn't give it yesterday"

Smiling at my response she opened the pack, her face turned red and said, "Oh my god"

The Cute Love Story..........Episode 4...!!!

Little later my mom came out and said, finish the discharge formalities let's take her home.

We went home. She was resting in Adithi's room and my mom gave her some food as per the physician's instructions. Nethra requested us not to inform her parents as they would just come and rebuke her. This will add to her pain and in no way will give her relief or change the situation. Later, my mom came to my room and said, "I wanna have a word with you"

I said, "Yes mom, what's it about?"

She said, "It's about Nethra"

I said, "Mom I'm really sorry, actually I was very angry with her and I don't know how I spoke all that. Maybe because of anger"

She said, "There is nothing to feel sorry about. I knew you were in love with her and I also knew that you didn't realize its love. She is not a bad choice to regret; she is like this because of some bad incidents that happened in the past; she is also a girl, a human being who is deeply in need of love that was denied by her heartless parents. I'll talk to dad about this if you are serious but before that I need to clarify certain things with you"

I asked, "What is it?"

She said, "She attempted suicide because of vexation as her parents have applied for Divorce and her father is getting married to someone else after the divorce. An insecure thought of their lives and future had made her depressed and has been troubling her. That's why she had decided to end her life"

I asked, "Mom anyway they are not together and the divorce is not going to change anything. She could have told me Mom. Death is not a solution"

Mom said, "When you are depressed you won't be able to think and decide wisely. Do you know she hates men? She is friendly with you because you care for her; respected her as a human being ignoring her callous nature and grumpiness"

I asked, "What's the reason to hate men in particular?"

Mom said, "Do you remember one day when we were watching a movie she became nervous and started to shiver"

I said, "Yes, I do remember"

Mom said, "Taking advantage of her family situation one of her relative had been sexually harassing her for some time since she was thirteen years old. This has affected her psychologically; it's kind of a mental disorder. If she comes across such situations or thinks about it or if she sees something that reminds her of that she becomes nervous"

I said, "Mom, it's shocking. How could life be so cruel on somebody who is helpless?"

Mom said, "Life is like that. She wants to be happy, move around with friends and lead a normal life like other girls of her age but this incident makes her not to trust anyone and she thinks grumpiness and loneliness is a shield to protect her. She is very timid in nature and fears about life but she portrays herself as a bold and stern person. Now Arjun, tell me are you patient and matured enough to handle a wife like her?"

I said, "More than I know myself you know me better; you tell me mom will I be able to handle this?"

Mom said, "I don't know, but my advice for you is to stay calm and make her feel comfortable with you. Make her trust you and love you. Love cures and pacifies. You will have to be patient till that. It'll take time for her to develop confidence in you. Love is not the relationship of two bodies. It's the bonding between the hearts & minds of two individuals that lasts forever.

If you really love her as much as you portray, you've got to give her some time. I'm really concerned Arjun, she is not mentally sound right now and may not give in to your urge for physical intimacy. This might frustrate you to the extent of giving up your relationship leading to divorce or separation.

She attempted suicide because she didn't like her parents' divorce and just imagine her mental agony if she has to sail in the same boat. Take time, think and tell me. Are you gonna take her as your wife or are you gonna give up your love for the pleasure of physical relationship?"

Mom paused for a moment and continued, "If you are going for the first choice I'll talk to dad and at the right time we will talk to her mother or father"

I said, "Mom, there is no need to think I have made up my mind, It's now I love her more. I wanna go for the first option. I wanna take her as my wife, I know her heart is bruised; I wanna heal her hurting and relive her from her pains. It's no fault of hers mom. I don't know if she will ever open up or mingle with anyone like she did with us and vice versa if others would be able to understand her pain and grief or not. I want to be by her side always mom"

Mom said, "Don't be hasty in deciding. It's easy to say but practically it's difficult. As a mother I wanna see my grandchildren. When I know the chances are very less, how do you think I'll accept to it?"

I said, "Mom, It's not a decision in haste. I'll stand firm and stick on to it come what may. To fulfil your wish we can adopt children and if you want grandchildren in your genes, technology has advanced to great extent in the medical field. I don't wanna quit her for a silly reason mom"

Mom said, "Good, I appreciate your decision but time alone will reveal the zeal of your love. All that we discussed should be between you and me. You should never discuss this with anyone especially Nethra and embarrass her at any point of time in your life"

I said, "I swear, I'll not discuss this with anyone"

Mom said, "We'll talk about it later. Don't trouble her asking anything. Okay" saying this she walked to the door and before she could leave, naughtily smiling she said, "I have never come across such a worst and wild proposal ever in my life"

After the discussion I was thinking about it and I felt pity for her. I decided, I should provide her a good life and replenish all the happiness and love that she lost all these years.

I went Adithi's room to see her. Adithi and Nethra were playing chess. I pulled up a chair and sat next to Adithi and said, "Hi Nethra, how are you feeling?"

She said, "Better"

I said, "Please don't ever try to do like this again what so ever. I know you're grieving and your heart is bleeding but death is not a solution for anything. I just thought what if your attempt had succeeded. The thought of losing you made me wild and that's why I behaved badly. I didn't mean to hurt you but I meant what I said. I'm very sorry if it had hurt you in anyway"

She didn't say anything but silence. I asked, "Shall we go out for a drive and get some fresh air?

Adithi said, "Okay, let's go to ice cream parlour I need triple sundae. What do you want Nethra?"

I said, "Let me check with mom if I can take you out and if you can have ice creams"

I asked my mom and she said, "Okay do not buy Nethra a sundae but maybe a scoop if she can take it. Don't stay out for a long time. Come back soon" Adithi, Nethra and I went to the nearby park and were watching the people around, the children playing etc. A swing was free and Adithi said, "I wanna swing" and ran to the swing.

Nethra and I were sitting in a bench and she asked, "Can you do me a favour please?"

I asked, "What is it?"

She said, "I wanna see Mithra, can you take me to her? She is studying 9th standard in St. Ebenezer School, Yelagiri"

I said, "Let me check with mom and if your health cooperates we shall go this weekend"

I checked with my mom and dad during dinner. Dad said, "Let us all go and visit Mithra this week end. Anyway we were planning for a family outing; let's combine it together"

As planned we all started. On seeing her sister both of them hugged each other and cried. We didn't know what to do and how to react on seeing this. Soon they became normal and were talking about their classes, studies, teachers, hostel and lot more. We had lunch with Mithra, during lunch Mithra said aloud to everyone, "Arjun is the only person Nethra has ever introduced as her friend till now and I'm very happy that she has someone to share. Thanks a lot, please take care of her. She is very reserved and will never tell anyone what she feels"

I said "Don't worry Mithra we'll take care" and we started back to Chennai. On the way back Nethra said to my dad, "Thank you for organizing this trip uncle, I'm very happy" Dad said, "Please don't say thanks a make me a stranger. You're happy right, that's what I wanted child"

Just to divert the topic I said, "Adithi is also studying 9th standard now". Looking at Adithi, I asked, "Is Mithra's syllabus same as yours?"

Adithi said, "Yeah, Same CBSE syllabus"

Overall the trip was good. She was happy and I was happy too.

Days passed on like this and I did not discuss with Nethra about my love for her and her opinion about me except for the hospital incident. I tried to talk to her sometimes but she avoided talking about it. We completed our under graduation and went abroad for MBA and my dad helped her in getting an educational loan. After MBA I took up my dad's business and Nethra joined a company. Adithi and Mithra moved to 12th standard.

Everything was fine and I asked my parents to ask Nethra's mother for her hand in wedding. As Nethra's parents are divorced, her mother took up the responsibility of settling them. Her father remarried and had a son. Nethra felt very ashamed and awkward.

When my parents asked her mother, she was not much interested in the wedding. My parents were very keen on the wedding and later she accepted. Our wedding was fixed. Before the wedding I wanted to ask Nethra if she was happy about the wedding because there was no love proposal, no acceptance and we were not lovers but good friends. I called her and asked, "Are you happy with the wedding?"

She said, "I think you're ruining your life"

I asked, "Why do you say that? Don't you like me?"

She said, "It's not about like or dislike but it's because of me, my behaviour, attitude etc. You'll have a tough time with me because I don't know what a family is, what a wife and husband relationship is or how to build it. All I know is arguments, quarrel, hatred, tears, pain and grief. Since I didn't have any pleasant memories during my childhood, I hate having children and I hate myself too. I hated being a symbol of sympathy and shame among my friends and relatives. I hate divorce. I think it's the more cruel than any cruelty ever existed in our society. Divorce is worse than "Sati (A practice in the olden days where a woman would be burnt alive along with her husband in his death funeral)" No man can live a peaceful life with a woman with an attitude like mine. It will lead to divorce and I will become the apt example for the saying "Like mother, like daughter""

I said, "Nethra, You don't have to worry about the past and its negatives. All I wanted to know is if you like me or not? Give me a straight clear answer yes or no"

She said, "Yes as a friend, but"



What will she say.......
Wait n see....