Tere Bin

Prologue

The Camera's captured this rare moment when the Best Business Tycoon of the Year 2013 award was given to Arnav Singh Raizada, a 28 year old rich and stylish personality of the Fashion Industry, as he collected the award from none other than the renowned Child Psychologist and social worker Khushi Gupta on the Stage. Though her eyes stuck on his face for long, he maintained the decency of their relationship and marched towards the Mike for a small Thank You speech. He dedicated the award to his elder sister Anjali who was also present there , sitting on the first row and smiling proudly as he praised her for being his guidance and support in all times. The Host of this ceremony then continued announcing the next category of awards as Arnav and Khushi started stepping down the stairs. She almost stumbled ,missing a step , but he supported her on time. Sparks flied as his fingers graced hers making their eyes meet. He was expressionless while she was yearning to know what he feels. Her heart raced rapidly as he started walking down the stairs but holding her hand which was yet again very formal for the onlookers. She dispersed towards her seat at the second row where her father Shashi Gupta was waiting for her while he headed towars his Di, handing her the trophy and concentrating back on the stage. Both Anjali and Shashi asked the same question to Arnav and Khushi respectively if they both  knew each other and got opposite responses. He denied knowing her whereas She accepted knowing him.





Part 1

Life is always complicated especially when it makes you meet people you never intended to even see again in your lifetime. Arnav Singh Raizada, a rich young and talented business tycoon had everything he needed. Money was overflowing in all his bank accounts, awards and recognition from everyone and almost everywhere from his surroundings, he had a family who was overly concerned for him and he never failed to fulfil their wishes before they could even let it out before him, but amidst all this there were still some underlying secrets of his life which he never wished to share with anyone. One such secret he collided with today in the Award function. He met her. After 8 long years. It was strange, unexpected and he will never promote it from his end. His silence was unacceptable to Anjali, the eldest of the two, happily married to the best lawyer of Delhi, and had a cute 4 year old boy named Anshuman. The baby boy was the heart of the Raizada family and unlike his Maamu, he was very cheerful and notorious, right from his birth.

She asked him on their drive back home if he was happy and all was well because he didnt seem so. One quality of Arnav Singh Raizada was that he never allowed his inner turmoils get exposed before his family. He never liked pressurising them with his problems. He was the best suppressent when it came to feelings. He faked smiles for giving smile on his family's faces and that was the most loved character he carried. Luckily they reached back home late night which meant , no  interactions with anyone else, just wishing his Di a good night and turning back to his room. He reached his room, locked the door and turned the lights On. Wanting to obliterate his uneasiness, he spashed the cold water on his face, closing eyes momentarily and breathed normal.

"Hi I am Khushi Gupta, Naam toh sunna hoga?" ("Hi I am Khushi Gupta.. Must have heard this name before" )

This line echoed in his ears again and again. Before the words can take the form of images in his mind, he turned on the cold shower to erradicate this helplessness.

**********

"Does coincidence happen Paapa?", was Khushi's next question to her  father as she passed him medicines. Shashi Gupta,  a successful businessman in his early 50's was her only parent. She was hardly 2 when he mother passed away but  she never  was given  a chance to miss the love of  a mother .Shashi gave all the love, pampering, care and  understanding to Khushi right after that. If they had relationships award, Shashi ought to receive the best parent award of the millenium, he was that best in parenting his child.

His daughter had always made him proud. She was best in academics, though little naughty in her teenage, she still managed to win medals, trophies and everything that any father will always expect from his child. She took life more seriously after 18 and chose to do something for the benefit of the society. She was a speaker and had all the needed leadership qualities in her making her stand high in this modern world. She loved kids and thats the reason she picked Child psychology as her subject for the betterment of young kids who will be the future of tomorrow. She had tie ups with some local educational authorities wherein she conducted her role of developing some special childrens attacked by behavioural disorders and helped them counteract their abnormalities, mental discomfort and act normal within the society they live in. She was their learning mentor who liaised with these special kids , acted like a childminder , worked with their parents, enabling their child to live positively again. Who wouldnt be proud if their daughter is such a perfect educational social worker?

Just like Shashi was both Father and mother for Khushi, she was his daughter and acting wife too. She loved him like a daughter would and dominated him like a wife. They both were new to Delhi. Shashi had recently developed his new Branch here and shifted his head office planning  to have a long run stay in the heart of India, Delhi. And likewise Khushi had got to scatter her help everywhere she could, not just in one city, so this was their 1st week in Delhi and it  cannot be more than a coincidence that she met HIM today. Not just meet, but she also presented him the best Businessman of the year award. And that was probably still less that God made her stumble on those stairs and take his help, stopping herself from creating an  embarrasment of herself before such a huge crowd., if he hadnt held her.

Her long pause after asking the question of coincidence to her father, did raise some confusion in Shashi's eyes. He shook her once and asked her what she meant by coincidence? Was there anything he should know about. ? She had no answer. Hugging her father and wishing him a good sleep, she left to her room hoping she can tackle this matter herself .

***********

3 days later

She stuffed the Sandwiches in  her mouth and sipped the juice quickly making it clear enough for her father that she had an urgent meeting with someone. Shashi kept reading his newspaper maintaining an unhappy look on his face which wasnt unnoticed by her.

Khushi: Paapa, its  just a matter of an hour or two .I will be back and then as promised we are going for the sightseeing. You think I dont wish to explore Delhi?
Shashi: You had promised me you wont schedule any meeting today. I specially took an off from my work for you so that we both can spend time together and you are ditching me.

She felt bad. Getting up from the chair, she hugged her father from behind, keeping his newspaper down.

Khushi: Forgive me paapa. I  had not scheduled anything for today. Just last night I got a call from this lady explaining me about her Son. I think I can help her. And its my job dad. Please understand.
Shashi (Smiled ): My daughter is the best in commitments. She will fail herself but never others. Fine. Go ahead and come back soon.
Khushi: Love you Paapa.

She picked her purse and left the house hurridly .She was always punctual and wanted to maintain that. Driving to the said Restaurant where she had fixed this meet, she parked her car and entered inside. As decided previously she reached the corner table where the lady was sitting alone , waiting for her.

Khushi: Mrs Anjali Jha?
Anjalli: Umm Khushi Gupta?
Khushi : Yes. Nice meeting you Maam. Sorry for keeping you waiting but the Delhi traffic is the root cause.
Anjali: (chuckled): Thats why I started early from home. You must be new to this place, I suppose then.
Khushi : Right. Settled a week back.
Anjali: Wait a minute, I guess I have seen you somewhere recently. In the Award function. Am I correct? You gave the best Businessman's award ?

"Not again", she mumbled and passed a sweet smile to Anjali because this topic made her uneasy.

Anjali: There you go, I didnt know you are Khushi Gupta or else we would have met long back.
Khushi: Lets begin?
Anjali: Ohh Sure. My 4 year old Son, Anshuman, he is the one I was telling you about on the call. Very naughty kid but I dont see him giving any proper response in anything except play. We had put him in playschool last year and never did a day pass that we didnt receive his complaints from the teachers. He doesnt concentrate probably. He is good at sports, he can run the entire day, but can you believe he doesnt even count right  from 1 to 10, forget writing A to Z correctly and in order. Initially  we thought our over pamper has made him so , or might be his diet problem. Have corrected all Khushi , but no luck. We wanted to get his admission done in the next 6 months in a good school, but  I doubt he is going to clear the interview with the Principal. My husband will never allow bribing the school authorities with heavy donations too. So I am too much worried about my baby.
Khushi: Hmm. I get what the problem is. Learning disability, it might not be common but definately one major issue to worry about. Its good that you have addressed this  issue when Anshuman is hardly 4 which will help us cure it at the right age.
Anjali (Happy ): So that means he will be fine?
Khushi: Very soon. Trust me.

Anjali's happiness had no bars. She thanked Khushi and then both decided the agenda too. This had to be some weeks efforts from Khushi's side to treat Anshuman's problem but to start with, she had to meet the child first.

**********

The meeting was over and Khushi was busy exploring the market of Delhi with her father. Who else can be a better companion when you dont have a partner? She entered the big store which  was famous for their designer sarees and authentic jewelleries. The collection was marvellous and seemed like she was going to shop a lot from here, emptying her father's pockets. She was checking a Sky blue designer saree when suddenly she felt a gust of wind blowing her hair locks. She turned in that direction only to find the store door opening and he entered inside in his rich Black suit, removing his glares and scanning  the store as if looking for someone. For few seconds her eyes were glued to his face as she had never expected COINCIDENCE to play a part again today. Thats when her father called out her name aloud to get her attention but the funny part was that it just didnt drive her attention ,but also Arnav's attention towards her. No much differences in their looks. Both equally surprised but like the award night, he was the one to take off his gaze from Khushi first. Thats when another girl came towards him and held his arm. She was pretty, charming and the way she held his arm meant a lot in the language of possession. The girl took him to the other counter whereas Khushi left to her father, both not much far from each other. Her eyes glanced at them again and again which she couldnt control much from her end and what surprised her  was the  fact that he was helping that lady with his choice of Saree. Since when did he start doing this. ? He was always tired of ladies shopping , wasnt he? But she was talking about things 8 years back. Everything changes with time especially MEN. The girl left for the changing room whereas he was dying to leave this place. Khushi didnt knew when her father saw Arnav and walked to him for a Hi hello!!

"Whats the need Paapa ?" , she mumbled to herself but too late. Arnav and her father already met each other and shook hands. SHe just hoped her father doesnt invite her to join them. She turned around and kept checking the sarees but nothing seemed to favour her today. She was been called and like a good daughter she had to obey. She reached them but meeting his eyes was out of question.

Shashi: My daughter Khushi Gupta.

None of the two acknowledged this as if the introduction was unnecessary. Uneasiness striked both when Shashi confessed they must be knowing each other as they studied in the same college. He raised his brow looking at her while she stared helplessly at her father for saying this.

Shashi (Seeing Khushi): What? Ohh.. Did you mean you just studied in the same college but never got introduced like this?

Before anyone could answer ,the girl was back from changing room. She joined them too.

Arnav: Mr Gupta, hope you dont mind but we have to leave. Shall meet you again sometime.

Shashi definately didnt mind. Arnav and the girl left while Khushi was feeling some uneasiness still inside her. Thats when she saw his phone on the same table he was standing with the girl before their talks. Shashi like a good gentleman asked Khushi to quickly follow him and  pass it back before he drives away. It would be ackward, she knew, but how is she supposed to explain her father ? She took his Iphone and rushed outside. She hadnt reached far when she saw him coming back for his phone alone. They both stopped at the same point. She passed him the phone while he turned to leave again without even a Thank you which was very unkind of him.

Khushi: Kitna mushkil hai mujhe sirf ek Thanks kehna? (Is it so difficult for you to say a Thanks to me? )

Arnav: (Turning back to her): Jitna simple tha tumhaare liye mujhe ek Sorry Kehna..!! ( Yes. Just the way it was so simple for you to say a Sorry to me)

This had to be a taunt, she knew it .None of them wished to get into that OLD ARGUMENT again after 8 long years. But one thing she had to clear out just incase the COINCIDENCES keep playing such tactics of making them meet in future again.

Khushi: I thought we have moved on Arnav.
Arnav: Yes we have. And after this MOVED ON phase, I dont want you to be anywhere around me in the present or the near future. So whatever you are Miss Khushi Gupta , just remember that.

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 2

MOVE ON? Just two simple words to understand but it has such a deeper meaning. Two people meet, share some time together, laugh, create moments and then part away advising the other to MOVE ON? How can people be so emotionless? Their hearts had to be of stone which can only create noise but never melt. These thoughts had crowded his mind all the way as he drove back home from that shopping mall. Why was life again playing tricks with him? After 8 long years he had almost started things freshly and today when he had untied himself from all those past knots, it was again dragging him towards the shadows of his meaningless old relationship. His tightening grip on the steering wheel was noticed by the girl beside him in the car. She placed her hand on his shoulder asking him if everything was okay. He seemed to be very disturbed. He looked at her faking a smile assuring all was good.

*********

Khushi removed her earings and placed them at the dressing table  top. She didnt even care how roughly she was taking off these earings and it did prick her too. After such a long time she was frustrated again to this extent. What does he think of himself? Is this a way to talk to a girl in public? He had changed so much, that it was hard to believe  he was the same Arnav she knew before. Never did he raise his voice in the past but today he didnt leave a chance to make her embarrass. She sat on the bed looking at herself in the mirror. The door knocked and Shashi came inside with Orange Juice glass. She had to look fine because her father was ignorant of that past . She got up.

Khushi: Dad, I would have made it. Why did you get?
Shashi: My daughter takes so much care of me all the time, cant I do this much for her? I thought by now you would have changed into your night suit. Whats wrong? Anything bothering  my baby?
Khushi: No. I was just tired. Nothing else.
Shashi: All work and no play makes you tired these days. Anyways whats plan for tomorrow?
Khushi: I have just one appointment tomorrow, but the most important one. Didnt I tell you about that 4 years child suffering from learning disability? I am visiting him tomorrow.
Shashi: Ohh yes. Thats nice. Start his treatment early and make him well soon. But dont forget to come home early. We have a family Dinner to attend.
Khushi: Family Dinner? Where ?
Shashi: My childhood friend Dr Mittal. He has invited us and 2 more families for a Dinner at his home. Its his Anniversary and he wanted to celeberate it only between 3 -4 close families. Now that we too are in Delhi, we cannot miss it like the previous times.

Khushi gulped the juice agreeing  for this Dinner party .

Shashi: So good night. May the sweetest dream make your sleep blissful tonight.

She hugged her father and then turned around to fetch her night suit.

Shashi: Ohh haan. .. I was going to ask you something else. Actually I felt a bit strange today in the Mall when we met Arnav Singh Raizada. You said you both knew each other. But when I introduced you to him, he didnt even react properly. As if he was meeting you for the first time today.

Khushi never thought her father would notice all this so quickly. She  mumbled something to herself and then looked back at Shashi.

Khushi: Yeah Dad. We knew each other but not so good that he will remmeber me forever. So .. Never mind.. Who cares.. Hai naa?

Shashi was convinced. He left the room while Khushi kept on staring the mirror blankly. She was such a liar. How could she lie that they both didnt knew well? The whole college was aware of their level of friendship. They even stayed together in the same apartment. They were so close buddies that each of them knew everything about the other. They ate together, studied together, played together, partied with their common friends. Those hangouts, late night parties, was the highlights of those days. She closed her eyes to suppress these thoughts from her mind and pulled the quilt on her. She had no strength or energy to even change her dress. She just wanted to sleep and get these thoughts out of her mind.

***********

Next Morning

Anjali was running behind her son Anshuman and while doing so she bumped into her Chotte who helped her balance herself.

Arnav: Di careful.
Anjali: Sorry Chotte. But my son will really make me lose some weight. He doesnt sit at one place. Look at him. From an hour I am trying to get hold of him so that I can feed him the breakfast and he is not coming to me. Its already 10 and she might come anytime to see him.
Arnav: Who is coming to see him Di?
Anjali: Uh!! The Child Psychologist. Didnt I tell you I have found a good Dr who will help us with Anshuman's disability?
Arnav: Hmm. But Di, I seriously think we are overreacting. Anshu is just a kid. We should give him some time.
Anjali:  You and Shyam think alike but I dont wish to take a risk Chotte. Please understand. And this Dr, she is the best I heard. THats why I contacted her. She has recently settled down in Delhi and is so willing to help us.
Arnav (Sighed) : OKay. As you say. I will not interrupt in this matter.!!

Anjali saw Anshuman running towards the stairs and she excused Arnav following her Son there. He was just leaving towards  his room when suddenly he heard her voice. He stopped at the spot turning at the door in surprise. She was standing in a simple Red chudidar, talking to Hari Prakash something. For seconds, Arnav was just lost in her sight. She was really present here or was he hallucinating? But wait..!! Why will he hallucinate her? She was no where around his mind and heart unlike before. He had flushed her out from his life many years back. He saw her entering the house and Hari Prakash leaving at the stairs showing her the couch to get seated until he calls the respective person she was here to meet. Their eyes met and as expected she seemed to be half nervous and half shocked to find him here again.

They stood a feet away because Arnav was blocking her way to the couch. She had doubts, so did he.

Khushi (In surprise): What are YOU doing here? (She purposely stressed the word "YOU")
Arnav: (Gritting his teeth): I should be asking you that? What the hell are YOU doing in my house?

Khushi's eyes widened with this little information he just gave her.

Khushi: Kya? Your house? But .. this is Anjali Jha's house, isnt it?
Arnav: She is my Sister.!!

Everything was crystal clear to her but he was still having questions. She had not answered why she was here and that too to meet his sister. But she looked more interested in clearing his doubts .

Khushi: Okay.. Look Arnav.. This is a worst coincidence. Dont mistake me but I am here to meet your sister OFFICIALLY..

As if there was any reason left for her to meet Anjali PERSONALLY now.. All was OVER , isnt it? Infact nothing ever STARTED to END.. !!

Khushi: Infact just not your sister, but her Son Anshuman. She.. She came to me a day back stating her concern about Anshuman. So.. I am here to help.. Because.. I .. I am a Child psychologist.. (She proudly stated but seemed like he was not much happy with anything.. )

He clutched her arms in anger. THis touch was very much old but the way he screamed after that was so unexpected..

Arnav: Child psychologist..!! My Foot!! Kya sikhaogi Anshuman ko ? Jhoot bolna? Bet lagana yeah phir kisi ka dil todna? Mere ghar mein tumhare liye koi jagah nahi hai Miss Khushi Gupta..So.. GET OUT..!! ( Child Psychologist..!!! My Foot.. !! What will you teach Anshuman? To lie? To bet or to break innocent hearts? There is not place in my house for you Miss Khushi Gupta.. So .. GET OUT..)

He was acting RUDE. He was never like this before. But why the hell was she even comparing? BEFORE and AFTER didnt matter. They had nothing BETWEEN them now. So whatever he told her was untolerable. She snapped back.

Khushi: How dare you Arnav? This might be your house but I am not here to cure you. So please stop making things tough for me and call your sister down. I am not going to leave until I meet her.

Ego's clashed like always but this time Arnav was more  powerful than her. He was about to drag her out but his sister's voice from behind them just stopped him from OVERREACTING.

Anjali : Khushi Gupta? Please come in.. Sorry for keeping you waiting so long. Chotte? Why didnt you ask her to get seated. ?
Khushi and Arnav shared a short glance but smile followed her lips as she saw Anjali again.

Khushi: He was forcing me to sit Anjali , it was me who denied.
His eyebrow twitched in surprise as he watched Anjali taking her to the Couch. He fisted his fingers unable to do anything beyond this and was leaving but looked like Fate had other plans. His sister called him again and very politely asked his help in discussing this matter with Khushi.

Arnav: Di I am busy. You handle it.
Anjali: Chotte , please. It will not take much time. Even Shyam is not here otherwise do you think I would have bothered you?

"BLACKMAILING" was all that his DI knew. He sighed and sat next to his DI, opposite to HER. They talked for a while but Arnav was quiet and opinionless. He had nothing to say. INfact nothing to react too. Khushi could not show this kind of gesture as she really was being professional. She wanted to help this child, may be because he  was Arnav's nephew. !! Didnt she?

Anjali: Uhh. Let me call Anshu here. He is a very naughty boy Khushiji. He didnt even eat his breakfast today morning.

She saw Anshu playing on his tri-cycle and immediately caught hold of him . She picked Anshuman in arms and carried him to Khushi.

Anshuman: Mumma leave me. I wont eat.
Anjali: Meet her. She is Khushi Jiji.
Anshuman was little shy to meet this new person and the moment Anjali dropped him down, he hide behind his mother , popping only his head out staring at Khushi. Very sweetly, Khushi pulled his hand and cuddled him towards her.  He struggled to leave but she  removed his favourite chocolate and passed it to him.

Khushi: Anshuman.. You like dark cholocates. Dont you?

His eyes glittered seeing the big chocolate as he noded a Yes. She didnt give it to him though and hide it behind her.

Khushi: Then  first eat your breakfast, drink the milk and only then this chocolate will be yours.
Anshuman: CHi.. No Milk. I dont like milk.
Khushi: Really? If you dont drink milk how will you get muscles like your Maamu? Dont you wish to be like him when you grow up?

For Anjali this was just a simple way of making the kid understand and agree to their demands . But Arnav was seriously baffled. Muscles!! She didnt had to use him as an example. Was she purposely doing this or was it just  a slip of tongue. Whatever the reason was, Anshuman was surely caught in her web and he agreed to finish the milk and breakfast to earn that chocolate. Anjali was impressed seeing Khushi's way of tackling Anshuman. Seemed like the day was not far when her Son will be perfectly fine like other kids. HArdly did she knew that the Dr's presence in their house will be complicating things for her younger brother.!!


______________________________________________________________________________


Part 3

The talk about his "muscles" and body building had really boosted Anshuman in drinking the milk and completing his breakfast. Not to mention , Khushi was always like this. Just one meet was enough for her to make any one like her  and most importantly believe her. Arnav gulped down remembering the first time he had met this girl 8 years back.

Flashback Begins

He zipped his bags again pushing it to the center of the bed hearing the door bell at this newly rented two bedroom apartment. He expected NandaKishore urf NK, his buddy, but seeing a beautiful teenage girl, smiling at him, he was just bowled off. He knew NK had many friends and mostly girls but this wasnt NK´s room where these girls can come anytime to get his help. Unlike NK, Arnav was too shy and reserved personality. Thats why he never had much friends. NK was the only one whom he got well along on his first day of College when he was his roomate at teh Hostel. But when the topic shifted to girls, he would be the last one to entertain them. Seeing no expressions or welcome from him, the girl dropped the bags down and extended her hand towards him for a handshake.

"Hi I am Khushi Gupta, Naam toh sunna hoga?" ("Hi I am Khushi Gupta.. Must have heard this name before" )

KHUSHI GUPTA? Was she famous that he had to know her name? But this name had brought some unusual tickles to his body which he ignored and completed the handshake.

Arnav: NK isnt here. He stays in the Hostel still . I dont know who gave you this address for him Miss Gupta.
Khushi: (Chuckled): Dont be so formal Yaar. Call me Khushi. Or KG? Thats what almost every friend of mine calls me here.

She was cute, especially the way she moved her hair locks and tucked them behind her ear again and again.

Arnav: How can I help you ... Khushi? (He liked calling this name too.)
Khushi: Thats better... I wont ask you to pick my bags but if you can allow me in, I can dump them in my room.

What was she saying? Bags? Room? His confused look surely gave her an idea his mind was still juggling to find answers ..

Khushi: You needed a Room mate right ? To share this two bedroom apartment? NK told me.. So I came here.. With my bags loaded .. Didnt he inform you I am coming?

Arnav was finding it hard to believe. Yes he needed a roommate to share the rent of this apartment but  a GIRL? No way.. He had asked NK to find a decent room partner but never a girl.. Seeing him blank, Khushi didnt wait anymore for his permission. Some men understand late.. And he was one of them, she thought . Without his permission she got inside with the bags as she was really in hurry.

Khushi: Where's the washroom?

He was still standing like an idiot statue. Finding no answer ,she sighed and did the investigation herself. She cannot  wait for his reply. It had been almost 5 minutes and probably she had find the washroom by now that Arnav came back to his senses .He immediately dialed NK and wanted to lash him out for finding a girl roommate but before he could , NK knocked the door and entered in.

NK: Hey Buddy. Is she here?
Arnav: Whats going on NK? You found a girl? I told you I needed a decent room partner.
NK: And who else can be more decent than an Indian girl Buddy? She is nice but  very talkative. But you need a person like her around to make you little more  social. She belongs to a rich family too.
Arnav: Rich? If She is rich why she needs to share a  room? She can own one.

"Yes I can" came a reply from the other door. She was back making Arnav little restless because he never wanted her to overhear their talks. She came forward.

Khushi: Cant rich people stay in rent apartments ? I am just saving money my Paapa gives every month. Is it wrong?

Arnav liked being clear. He didnt wanted to sound rude but somethings had to be discussed before he agrees for this.

Arnav: Its not about money Khushi. You are a girl and staying like this with a boy can spoil your reputation. I will not like anyone pointing at you for taking this step.
Khushi: Ohh Hello. Which generation are you living in? And this is not India wherein people will mistake our stay together. I am not the first girl in this planet to take such an initiative. You know Bobby and Sonia ? They stay together too.

Arnav didnt know them obviously but NK cleared it.

NK: Bobby and Sonia belong to her group of friends. I heard they are dating now Khushi. Is it true?
Khushi (Smiled): Ohh  yes. It  was so so expected. Afterall they stayed together.. Pyaar toh hona hi tha.. (Love had to happen)

Arnav's brow twitched high again. What was that suppose to mean? If he agrees to allow this girl stay in his apartment, are there chances he will fall for her too?

Khushi: By the way.. Stop being so mean Arnav and tell me am I In?
NK : Ofcourse baby. You already IN.. Let me show you the room. Come..

She didnt even wait for Arnav's answer. And how was he supposed to deny her? He had no idea what this stay of theirs would lead into. All he hoped was that he keeps concentrating on his studies rather than entertaining a girl. Afterall he was here in US on a Scholarship. His family wasnt rich as hers and he had to settle everything down there in Delhi.. He had to save his father's property which had been mortgaged., had to find a perfect groom for his Di and get her married, his Nani's health had to restored too by getting her treated in a good hospital. And Akash had just began his Pre University college there. Arnav was his family's only hope and he will never fail them. Though he was here for studies, he still had to find suitable part time jobs to ensure he keeps supporting his family's income. The college hostel was full as he was late in getting admission here which had forced him to find a suitable rented apartment. He stayed with NK for one whole week in the Hostel until he found this house which was quite near to their University and had asked his buddy to look for some room partner. Now that he had got one, he just couldnt deny because he was the one in need. Not she!!

Flashback Ends..

The call on his mobile diverted him from the flashbacks which though had brought a smile on his face 8 years back, today they meant nothing. The phone ring caught Khushi's attention too as they were still sitting at the Sofa discussing Anshuman's case with Anjali.

Arnav checked the caller and answered the phone call moving little away from them but not so far that Khushi cannot hear his talks.

Arnav( On call): No, I havnt started yet.  I will pick you from your home. (PAUSE..) .. Uhh.. No.. Di wanted me to stay back for some time. Uhh.. She has called some child psychologist to discuss Anshu's case. Forget all that. Just be ready. I am reaching in half an hour.  Bye. ..

He finished the call and left back to his room to get ready. He was already late  and he didnt wish to delay more. Staying here was like poisoning his heart again which he would not allow again. !! Khushi had no idea whom he talked to. As if she cared if it was some girl the other end .. !! She kept focussing on Anjali's details and was thanking God that he was finally not around anymore. She can concentrate on Anshuman properly now.

**********

Evening - Mittal's Anniversary Party

Khushi entered the Mittal House with her father and the Mittal's were more than happy welcoming them. She was dumbfound seeing the Raizada's already present here. Again a COINCIDENCE? Why? Anjali too had no idea Khushi and her father will be a part of this dinner but  she was happy to have their company because her brother had to be busy with someone else now. Suddenly Khushi's eyes fell at the corner where she saw Arnav standing and talking to the same girl whom she had seen in the shopping mall the other day. The girl had encircled her hand around his  and was busy in clicking a Selfie though Arnav seemed to be very little interested in doing this. He too saw Khushi and her father. Like Khushi he too had not expected to see them here. She seemed to be liking Blue still. Thats why she wore a Sky Blue Anarkali with silver border , her hair curled at the front and the rest hanging loose behind. Their eyes met for some seconds and as usual he had to be the first one to divert his gaze. The Mittal's seemed to be praising Shashi for having such a beautiful daughter. They immediately called Vivaan who was busy with some of his friends the other corner and got him introduced to Shashi and Khushi.

Vivaan first praised Khushi for the social work she was doing and then told her how he also wished to be a part of it in future. She always welcomed volunteers but she had not expected to get one so soon. The Mittal couple and Shashi asked Vivaan to take Khushi and get her introduced to his friends and the other guests out here. Thats when Khushi got a slight hint what was happening. She gave a cold stare to her father and then as she had no chance of denying, followed Vivaan towards the guests. He had introduced Khushi to almost everyone and then he took her to Arnav and this girl who still seemed to be very much engrossed with him .

Vivaan: And here is the most eligible bachelor of the town Arnav Singh Raizada and his would be Fiancee Alia. And guys meet Khushi Gupta, our honourable guest tonight.

Arnav's hands were still in his pocket but eyes definately on Khushi's face to see what her reactions were knowing who Alia is .There was a  shock written on her face for some seconds which she hide placing a warm smile on her lips and said a Hi to Alia.

Vivaan: Alia. .You should be conscious now. You have a competitor. Isnt she more beautiful?
Alia hit Vivaan and chuckled.
Alia: I am always In for that. So Khushi Beware!! (She was  just teasing but it was so evident from Khushi's face that she was uncomfortable even extending this talk.)

Khushi excused herself and went to her father whom she wanted to talk desperately.  SHe found him standing alone and making a drink for himself. She stopped him from doing this task.

Shashi: Ohh Khushi.. Just one peg baby.
Khushi: No you wont drink Paapa. At least not till you answer my questions.

Shashi had sensed what she wanted to talk.He allowed her to speak.

Khushi: Paapa this is so embarrassing. You tricked me to meet this guy here on the pretext of having Dinner with the Mittal's ?

Shashi: He is Vivaan, Mittal's elder Son. And I didnt trick you baby. You know I am not one of those fathers who will impose his decision on children. Vivaan is a very nice guy, I personally know him. All you need to do is just meet him, talk to him and try knowing each other. Thats it.

Khushi was very uncomfortable at the moment. She didnt know what her reaction should be. Why was fate playing such tricky games with her since the time she had settled in Delhi?  Here Arnav's presence in the Dinner party of Mittal's was already pricking her and on the top this marriage alliance?

Shashi: As far as I know you, there is no one yet whom you gave your heart to. But if I am wrong, you can just tell me the name Khushi and be assured I will talk to that man personally if you like him.

Khushi stared at the floor because she didnt wish to see anywhere else and misguide herself. It was true she never gave her heart to anyone yet but that doesnt mean she can think about marriage. She was not ready for it so soon.

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 4

Khushi managed to convince her father that she is not ready for marriage now but he only agreed on the promise that she will spend some time with Vivaan allowing him to Volunteer in her Social activities and then decide if she liked still wasnt interested in him. She agreed. The dinner was arranged and everyone took their seats on the Long table which was specially designed to accomdate at least 20 people together. And again it was a coincidence that Khushi was seating exactly opposite to Arnav. Alia was next to him and Khushi was in between her father and Vivaan. Such an uncomfortable seating arrangement it was. She was already suffocating with Arnav's presence and upon that her father now was trying to link her with this new guy.

They started serving themselves. Being a good daughter she first served her father. Arnav  watched that. Her usual habit. She likes serving people however good or bad she cooks.

Flashback starts

Khushi tried to stuf the burnt Roti in his mouth while he did his best to save himself from tasting it. He was running accross the room and she was chasing him.

Khushi: Arnav stop. .stop yaar..Dont be such a jerk ..
Arnav: (Throwing the pillow on her while running): Being Jerk is better than puking dammit!!
Khushi : Haww. !! You mean i.. I cook so bad? (She kept chasing him)
Arnav: Cant define!!

He finally was able to enter his  bedroom and was about to lock the door before she enters but suddenly he heard her screaming in pain. He quickly opened the door and saw her standing before him crying holding her hand.. Seemed like while he tried to close the door, she hit her hand in the process of pushing it..
..
Arnav ( holding her hand): Sorry KG.. Tujhe Chot lagi? Dikha..! (Sorry KG.. Did you get hurt? SHow me)

She gave a wining smile and stuffed the paratha peice in his mouth. He was going to spit it out but she gave him her promise..

Khushi: You cant throw it.. My Promise!!

He unwillingly started chewing and his expressions changed.. As if he liked what she cooked.. She was more than happy seeing him smiling..
Khushi: Is it good?
Arnav: Yea.. I mean .. Truely amazing. You should taste it too KG.. For me.. Come..

He went to the table and cutting a big peice of Paratha , he very lovingly made her eat. The moment she chewed it, she realised it had no taste and no spice. .She immediately ran into the washroom and threw up. Arnav was laughing like hell seeing her doing that. She angrily came outside wiping her face with the towel .

Khushi: I .. i wont leave you Arnav.. How could you do this?
Arnav: You did the same KG..!! Think how I ate it? for you..!!

Khushi sighed understanding what he said but she was upset too that she couldnt cook nice..

Arnav (Holding her hands): Thats fine.. I will teach you how to make Paratha's. I am sure by the end of this year you wil learn it well
She hit his hand for teasing her again..
Arnav: But.. but .. promise me you will never try your hands on it alone until I teach you. .Please KG..
Khushi chuckled and leaned her head on his arms thinking how much she pesters him and he still does everything for her..!!

Flashback ends!!

Alia shook Arnav asking why wasn't he eating.. He denied answering anything and started enjoying the food. She ensured her eyes stuck on her plate and nowhere else. Vivaan was still showing a lot of curiousity towards Khushi's social activities and she was responding to him only whats been asked. Soon Khushi saw Alia turning towards Arnav and smiling. He gestured her a nod as if denying her for something but she kept smiling only. Khushi was not sure what they meant. But why was she interested to know it? Her spoon fell down the table in the thought process and she leaned down to pick it up. Thats when she saw Alia's toe fingers playing with Arnav's shoes . A complete unknown rage build in her body whose reason she never knew. She gave a cold stare to Alia and then at Arnav but they never even realised that.

Vivaan: Hey..? Is all okay? I think you didnt like  the food Khushi. You have hardly eaten anything.
Khushi: Uhh. No Vivaan. The food's awesome.  Its just that I am not much hungry.
Vivaan: I see. Want some Juice?
Khushi: No. I am fine. Thanks.

She excused finishing half the  food and left towards the big lush green lawn for getting some fresh air. She had no idea why she was acting like his Ex now? Does it even matter? Everything was over. She never took their relationship in the other way then what was it that affected her since the time they met after 8 long years. She hoped it was not serious. People who meet each other after such a long gap, especially when they parted in a odd circumstances, might feel the same which she was going through. But was she the only one here to feel it or was he realising it too? Some one placed hand on her shoulder and she almost jerked.

Alia: Hey.. its me.. Sorry, I didnt mean to scare you.
Khushi: I am not scared. I was just lost in some thoughts .. Thats all. What are you doing here?
Alia: I was going to ask you the same. What are you doing out?
Khushi: Fresh air!! (She faked  a smile)
Alia: Ohh. I was looking for Arnav. He got some call and came out too. So I followed. Dont know where we went though.

Khushi: Following your would be Fiancee? WHy? Suspicious about him?

Khushi teasingly asked and Alia started laughing.

Alia: Of course I am suspicious. He is Arnav Singh Raizada afterall. You know Khushi, I hate it when I find girls drooling over him. I mean dont have other job to do. Thats why when I am out, I try to keep an eye on his every move.
Khushi: Hmm. Not fully wrong Alia. Because I am sure these men feel the same when we are giving more importance to others, cornering them.

Khushi purposely said this. She knew Arnav was coming towards them and probably she wanted him to hear that too. Not sure how he treats Alia, but she can never forget how possessive Arnav was with her years back.

Flashback Starts

A
rnav snatched the books from her and threw it on Couch..

Arnav (Angrily): Why cant you answer my questions KG? Is it that difficult?
Khushi: Its not difficult. It unneccessary Arnav. Whats wrong with you?
Arnav: Wrong with me? You came with Ronny on his bike and you asking whats wrong with me?
Khushi: Arnav please.. Ronny is my classmate.
Arnav: And he likes you. He eyes you everytime when you around dammit!!  I dont think he has good feelings for you . So just stay away from him..
Khushi: (Angrily): Excuse me!! Stay away? Why? WHo are you to advise me that? Dont forget Arnav, we are just sharing this apartment, not our lives that I keep following everything what you want me to do. And please,  I know how to deal with men if they try act smart with me. Ronny is in his limits and you stay in yourss!! Dont try to be my Boyfreind because you are not one!! Understood ?

She tried leaving but he caught her hand and pulled her back in anger. He was infuriated with her talks.

Arnav: Kya kahan? I am not your boyfriend?
Khushi suddenly realised what she said. She inhaled  a deep breathe and tried to cool down. The hold of Arnav's hands on her was too painful and she tried to soothe him by her apology..

Khushi: I am sorry. I didnt mean to say that. Arnav you know I dont like people restricting me. Even my father never talked to me in this tone. So when you try to boss around, I get agitated. Thats all.
Arnav: And in that frustration you are hurting me and my heart KG. Dont you realise that? I may not be rich like your father but that doesnt mean I dont owe the right of correcting you. I want you to be  safe. Not just from Ronny but every other guy who likes you, who wants to spend time with you. I cannot tolerate seeing you with any other man than me!!

Khushi noded and pinched his cheeks..

Khushi: Okay ARNAVJI.. Aap ka hukkum .. Sar aakhon par.. Khush? ( OKay .. Arnavji.. I will do exactly what you said and what you want. Happy? )

Flashback Ends

Arnav was well aware why she made that statement. She realised it always but never really cared or followed, did she?

Arnav: Uhh Alia. We should leave.
Vivaan came there too. He heard Arnav and Alia planning to leave.
Vivaan: Leave ? So early ASR? I know you are busy but such occassions dont come daily. You have so many pretty faces around and you leaving instead of stealing their hearts.? (He gestured towards Khushi and tried teasing Alia a bit)
Arnav: Vivaan some girls are very expert in breaking hearts. And my sixth sense says, Miss kHushi Gupta is one of them. So I prefer utilizing my precious time in a fruitful deal than such baseless relationships.!!
Khushi was enraged by his comment.

Alia and Vivaan didnt took it serious though.

Alia : Vivaan ke bacche.!! You are teaching wrong to my Fiancee?
Vivaan: Correct yourself Alia.. He is your would be Fiancee. You guys have not been engaged yet..
Alia: So what.? We are getting engaged in 2 weeks. Isnt that enough? Arnav.. (she turned to see Arnav who quickly concentrated back on her instead of staring Khushi.. ).. Just dont listen to Vivaan's advises..Okay?

Arnav smirked back and then holding her hand, he wished a bye to Vivaan ONLY and they both left the garden..

Vivaan (Admiring them leave): Such a wonderful pair they make. Hai naa Khushi?
Khushi : May be .. (She replied in a harsh tone and walked inside the venue to find her father. She had seen and heard enough at this place. She needed to calm down and that was possible only when she leaves from here)

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

Next Day

Khushi just hoped Arnav was not around in the house today when she is helping Anshuman. His presence is too annoying especially because he doesnt mind insulting her anytime before anyone.!! She rang the door bell and the servants opened the door , welcomed her in .She asked for Anjali and they made her wait in the Living room. She saw a man getting down the stairs, holding some files and papers. He took looked as a part of this  family. She got up when he reached her. He seemed to be little confused as if he was trying to recognise her.

"Aap? "

Khushi: Hello. I am Khushi Gupta.. I am here for Anshuman..

The name itself reminded this man who she was. But she was here for Anshuman? Or Arnav? But he avoided clarifying this matter and extended his hands for a handshake

"Shyam Jha.. I am Anshu's father", he replied

She completed the handshake and he asked her to  be comfortable around and excused as he was getting late for the court. She sat on the Couch, reading the magazine till Anjali came there and took her in . Shyam couldnt believe how small the world was .His Saale Sahab had come a long way from his past but guess the future wasnt so simple , now that Khushi Gupta had entered their present. !! He knew Arnav was getting engaged in 2 weeks and hoped that whatever his decision was is always right for him because his Saale Sahab was gem of a person.

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 5

AR Office

Arnav finished his conference meet and was out of the cabin when he saw his Jeejaji Shyam talking to his other lawyer Roy.

Shyam: Good Afternoon Saale Sahab.. How was the meet?
Arnav: It was nice, the Client is impressed with our designs. Only the financials are to be discussed now to bag this deal.
Shyam: Ahh! I never doubted your skills Saale Sahab. Anything you touch does turn to gold. How about having Lunch together? I have enough time this afternoon. No more court sessions too.

Arnav turned to Aman who quickly  checked his schedule and gave him a positive nod.

Arnav: Okay.. Lets go. Its been long we had a Lunch together.
Shyam: Indeed.. Chaliye.. (Come)

Shyam Jha apart from being Arnav's Jeejaji also shared another bond with him. Arnav treated Shyam  as his philosopher. Any tough situations that he wished to talk about and share with someone, Shyam was always the one to hear it from him and advise him. Arnav was a man of principles and his principles only enhanced by Shyam's advise. Arnav was very young when his sister got a marriage proposals from the Jha family, a very reputed lawyer family in the town. Shyam after marrying Anjali, just didnt take her responsibility but also the responsibility of the whole family whom he treated as his own.Arnav respected Shyam for his idealistic thoughts and matured behaviour. Shyam was a lovely husband, a protective father and an excellent human being.

Both Arnav and Shyam were at the nearest Hotel having their Lunch. Shyam was not much sure if he should be asking this to Arnav but he could not avoid the fact that he had seen a restlessness in Arnav's behaviour from past few days and after seeing Khushi in their house today, Shyam guessed what the reason behind that behaviour was.

Shyam: I.. I met Khushi today..
Arnav stopped eating. Met Khushi ? Ohh yes.. How could he avoid this? Afterall some or the other day his Jeejaji would have found out who is treating Anshuman. Arnav tried to maintain a normal look on his face.

Arnav: (Sighed): I dont understand how could Di choose HER for Anshu's treatment?

Shyam: Rani Saheba does not know about the past you both share. And if you react now, she will be soon aware of all that you never wish to even remember Arnav. So let it go.
Arnav: I never tried to hold it on either Jeejaji. You know I have moved on.
Shyam: Hmm. Easy to say it but equally difficult to hold that stand when your past is so close to your present. Does she know you are Anshu's Uncle?
Arnav: Yea. We have met too.
Shyam: And she still accepted to treat Anshu? Thats strange!!
Arnav: Jeejaji.. Why are we even discussing her ? Lets not spoil this Lunch.

Shyam did not want to stress Arnav. He knew what Arnav had faced in the past and things should never repeat if they make you worse. He still remembered the day when accidently he had seen a photo of his saale sahab with a beautiful girl messing with his hair as she kept laughing her heart out while his Saale Sahab was tickling her , trying to stop her from playing with his hair. It was very difficult for Shyam to understand that his Saale Sahab Arnav even laughed heartily some years back. After a little poke in Arnav's past life, he managed to know from Arnav that Khushi was the only girl with whom he shared such a  laugh. She was his smile, his only friend, the first girl in his life whom he considered to be his partner, his life partner. Only if she had not cheated his love, today he would have retained that smile and love in his heart forever.

***********

Raizada House

Anshuman was a strong boy but definately very hard to handle. Khushi was trying to get a hold of him so that she can make him undergo some basic lessons on counting and memorizing but he ran outside, directly entering the other room which was next to it. Khushi chased him.

Khushi: (Entering the room): Anshuman.. Where are you hiding? Come out. Look, I will complain to your father if you dont do these lessons. Anshuman.. Please baby.. Be a good boy.. Come here..

Anshuman was quiet and hiding behind the curtains. Khushi scanned the room thinking where can he hide? .Suddenly her eyes feel on the pool outside the French doors and by now she had guessed whose room she was in.

Arnav always wished to have a Pool inside his room. He loved silence and beaches were his favourite spots to visit. So finally he made his dream room with a pool in it. Anshuman came out of the curtain seeing no reactions from Khushi and hugged her from behind. She caught him before he could run away again.

Khushi: Caught you Anshuman... Now dare you run away again.

Anjali entered the room  in search of the two.

Anjali: Khushi? Is he troubling you?
Khushi: Ohh not at all Anjali. But your son is in a playful mood today. He has no intentions of doing the lessons. See. He made me chase him till his Uncle's room.

Anjali (Little astonished): How do you know this is my Brother's room ?

Such a tricky question she asked and Khushi had no reply to it. The servant came there to Khushi's luck and told Anjali that Alia was here. Anjali's thought diverted.

Anjali: Ohh. Finally she came . Khushi, me and Alia have some shopping to do for the upcoming engagement. Would you mind continuing the lessons with Anshu in my absence? I will be back in few hours.

Khushi needed this privacy. She agreed. Anjali left after advising Anshuman not to trouble Khushi. After she left  Khushi picked Anshuman in arms and carried him back to his room.
_______________

"Just get the hell out of my room', he barked in anger seeing Khushi on top of his bed , trying to chase Anshuman again who was being too naughty and making her run everywhere in the house, especially in his Uncle's room. Khushi froze at the spot feeling her eardrums vibrating with high resonance. Anshuman escaped but Khushi was still at the same place.

Arnav: Dont you get it when I say OUT OF MY ROOM ?

What was wrong with this man? Why did he bark in such a high tone? She never had heard this pitch of his , so sharp and loud.

Khushi (Composing herself): You can say that politely too. And I am not your servant to order me like that.
Arnav: Neither was I your personal servant whom you kept dancing on your demands Miss Khushi Gupta. What you sow, so shall you reap. You are here to treat Anshuman, stick to that job. Do not poke elsewhere. It wont be good.

Khushi was going to argue but thats when they both heard Anshuman scream aloud in pain. They both rushed outside the room to check what was wrong. Anshuman was sitting on the floor and crying ,  holding his hand. He probably had fell down while escaping from his Uncle's wrath. Arnav picked Anshuman in his arms and rushed to the room again, screaming at the servants for the first aid. Khushi followed him out of concern..

Anshuman was crying badly and Arnav had no idea how to calm him down. He kept calling for his Di because he had no idea she was not at home. Khushi took Anshuman on her lap and started caressing his hurt arm.

Khushi: Shh.. Anshu.. Stop crying .. Boys dont cry.. Show me where you hurt.

Arnav was only watching the way she reduced Anshu's cries. She checked his hand first, pressed it and stretched it back and forth..

Khushi (Looking at Arnav): Its not a fracture. He will be fine.

HP came inside with the first aid and passed it to Khushi. Anshu hugged her while she kept patting his back. She applied a soothing gel on his hand and kissed his cheeks. His tears had dried by now.

Khushi: The pain will go off in some time. Okay baby?

Anshu hugged her again feeling better. Arnav extended his arms before Khushi making her feel little uneasy. Both kept staring in the other's eyes but he cleared off her confusion by asking Anshu to come back to him. So he wanted to take Anshu in his arms. She didnt deny but Anshu seemed more comfortable with her than him.
Arnav gave up his efforts and turned back to HP.

Arnav: Di kahan hai? (Where is Di? )
HP: Bhaiyaa.. Di has gone out with Aliyaji.

Arnav picked his phone and dialed the number. He angrily spoke to Anjali asking her how can she be so careless in letting her Son be alone at home? Khushi felt frustrated because he proved that her presence with Anshuman was not enough to guarantee the baby's security. He asked his Di to come back home dropping all her work outside. Anshu was asleep in Khushi's arms due to her continous caressess. She was getting a call from her father and she had no chances of picking it up unless Arnav helps her in doing so. She placed the baby on bed and then answered the call moving away from them. She talked for a minute and then returned back.

Khushi: I have to leave.
Arnav: No one ever stopped you ( he said covering Anshu with the duvet)
Khushi (frustrated): Arnav for God's sake stop taunting me in each and every sentence we speak. It hurts. If you dont like  to see my face then turn around. But do not come in between me and my profession. I dont like that. I have to go. So please tell your sister that I will be calling her later to enquire about Anshu's health.

She left his room giving one final look at Anshu. She feels HURT? Did she ever think about him? How much hurt he was when she cheated him? He fisted his fingers and closed his eyes not to remember that bitter past again.
_________________

Anjali settled her sleeping son on the bed and thanked Arnav for being there with Anshu at such time.

Arnav: Di I think nothing should be more important to you than your Son. How could you leave him alone?
Anjali: I left him with Khushi.. And you know this is not her fault. Anshu is so naughty , how can she handle him alone? I am wrong here and I promise this will never repeat. But CHotte if you dont forget , I had been out for some real important work.

Arnav was just listening..

Anjali: Today me and Aliya have selected your engagement card design and placed the order. We will receive them tomorrow evening. Isnt that great? We have hardly 2 weeks and we should be hurrying up now.

For some seconds Arnav stilled. His ENGAGEMENT? Ohh Yess.. Another  responsibility which he had to fulfil for his family.!!

Anjali: I have made a list of invitees too. You have a look and let me know if I missed anyone.
Arnav: Fine.

He was about to leave but she stopped him.

Anjali: I will invite Khushi personally but we should be giving a card to her father too.

Arnav was blank. His Engagement? And Khushi Gupta is invited too? ?

Arnav: (Interrupting): Gupta's ? Why Di? They are not needed to attend this function.

Anjali very calmly tried to explain Arnav that everytime his stubbornness won't work.
Anjali: You are getting engaged Chotte. This will be a big day for you both. Why do you think we invite all relatives and friends? It's only because they can bless you both and your life starts with ease.
Arnav: (in frustration): Di... The Gupta's are neither our relatives nor friends.
Anjali: But Khushi is treating your Nephew. She and her father are not strangers to us. What harm will it cause if we invite them?

Wish Arnav could explain why he doesn't want to invite HER in his engagement. How can he make Alia wear the finger ring when once he made Khushi wear a ring which he bought from his hard earned money? How could he forget that 3 weeks hard work he did, by working extra hours in his part time job to earn some money from which he can buy that diamond studded ring for his KG. He had seen her eyes glittering when they had been out in the shopping mall for buying some T shirts for him. He hardly had a good wardrobe and she took the whole and sole responsibility to change it and make him look little western and stylish. It was that day she had seen this Diamond ring in one store  and loved it. But she was very strict in terms of spending her pocket money. She ignored buying it even though she had enough credit in her card to swipe. THats when Arnav promised himself, he will earn it for her. But  what fruit did that ring give? NOTHING

______________________________________________________________________________



Part 6

Days were passing  quickly. Khushi was maintaining distance between her and Arnav because only that will help things from getting complicated. However hard she denies, she still cannot forget one fact. She and Arnav had been in relation 8 years back. After Anshuman's little accident that day, she restricted her meet with Arnav, ensuring she is only concentrating on the baby and not entertaining him or his useless taunts. Arnav on the other hand was busy with his engagement preps. His Di was in a full swing . She was the most excited person for this occassion to happen. Khushi finished her activity for the day with Anshu and kissed his cheeks saying a Bye when Anjali entered the room.

Anjali: Done?
Khushi: Yes Anjali. He is progressing. He has started recollecting and memorizing what he learns now. I am sure he will recover completely very soon. But dont forget to make him do his home work. All those Abacus practice will help him.
Anjali: His father sits with him daily to revise what he does with you. And my husband is quite impressed.
Khushi (laughed): I am not doing much Anjali but I like to take that credit sometimes. Thanks.
Anjali: You deserve it Khushi and thats why I have something for you. Please dont deny.

Khushi was very confused when Anjali passed her a gift wrapped box.

Khushi: Whats this?
Anjali: A small gift from us to you.
Khushi: No.. No way. I cannot take it.
Anjali: Its not a price Khushi.. Its just a Thank you gift from us to you. Please wear this on Chotte's engagement. I am gifting all my close friends and relatives and you are one of them now.

The thought of wearing this  dress / saree or whatever it is ,was not bad but on Arnav's engagement?

Khushi: But Anjali.. (She tried convincing)
Anjali (Interrupting): You cannot deny. Think like your elder sister gave this to you. Will you still decline your sister's request?
Khushi: (Sighed giving up and hugged Anjali): I could never deny my sister If I had one.
Anjali caressed her back. They were building a new bonding these days.

**********

Next Day

Vivaan parked the Car. Khushi and Vivaan both got down.

Khushi: I will wait here Vivaan. Come soon.
Vivaan was officially joining some NGO to assist and provide his help in working for the poor children. Since Khushi was already a part of it, she was helping him with the documentation process.

Vivaan: How can I let such a beautiful lady wait for me outside? And that too before my house? Come in. Mom dad will be happy to see you.
Khushi: Why? Am I the only girl who has entered with you?
Vivaan was almost blushing.

Vivaan: Uhh.. I cant lie. So better I dont answer  that. Come.

She smiled and followed him inside. To their surprise Arnav and Anjali were present already. Khushi slowed down her steps whereas Vivaan showed his excitement .

Vivaan: Wow.. The Raizada's here? Real surprise huhh!!

Arnav stood up and hugged Vivaan but he still had a confusion in his mind.. What was Khushi doing with Vivaan in his house? Vivaan's parents welcomed Khushi and Anjali also greeted her.

Anjali: So Vivaan? I thought your meet with Khushi was restricted only in family functions and parties. I didnt know you guys meet unofficially too. (she teased)
Khushi was uncomfortable especially because this teasing was done before Arnav.

Khushi: No Anjali. Actually Vivaan is joining the NGO I am working for. So he needed little help. Thats all.
Vivaan: Yea. And who will miss the chance of spending time with such a beautiful girl Anjali Di ? Like Arnav, dont you want your other brother like figures to settle in personal life?
Khushi: (Little annoyed): Vivaan .. Please..
Vivaan (holding his ears): Sorry. I was just kidding Yaar..

Vivaan's parents asked Khushi to join them at the couch. Vivaan quickly left to his room to get the papers. Anjali continued talking. Arnav and kHushi both avoided each other maximum possible.Anjali passed the engagement invitiation card to Vivaan's parents and invited them heartily. Vivaan's mother took Anjali in the Puja room to keep the card before Devi Maiyaa idol. Vivaan's father got  a call and he excused the only remaining 2 people here.. Arnav and Khushi..!!

Khushi was trying her best to be in her own world , forgetting Arnav was in the same room. But again, the fate had no such plans to keep them silent for long. She felt something tickling at her feet . When she saw what it can be, a big cockroach was trying to climb on her feet. She jumped and got up in fear..

Khushi: Cock..cockroach.. Ohh god..

She rushed to Arnav, holding his hand and stamping her feet in the fear that the cockroach had already climbed on her. Arnav was too shocked. He held her hand .

Arnav: Its gone.. Relax..
She kept stamping her feet , closing her eyes tight to supress that fear..
Arnav: Khushi stop doing this..!!
She was still afraid..
Arnav (Angrily): KG .. STOP !!

Thats when she actually stopped and opened her eyes. KG? He called her KG? Again ? After 8 long years this name from him seemed still so fresh and captivating. They kept staring in each others eyes. Arnav was cheated by his own heart. But what was he supposed to do in such situations. ? He knew her fear for cockroaches. He knew how much cockroach freak she was.

FLASHBACK STARTS

Arnav extended his hand for her to get down the Kitchen slab..

Arnav: KG.. Come down. Its gone..
She stamped her feet denying to get down.
Khushi: No. Its roaming everywhere Arnav. I wont get down..
Arnav: Ohh.. Baby its not going to eat you. Its such a small creature. And you scared of it? How funny is that?

Khushi: Funny? You think its funny? It climbed on me. Chi... What if it bites?
Arnav (holding his laugh): Cockroaches dont bite KG. Use your brains.
Khushi: Did you open their mouth and see if they have teeth? No right? Then how do you know they dont bite? They bite. I know. Ohh God. I got goosebumps. See..

Arnav did see the goosebumps forming on her skin. He extended his hand again..

Arnav: It will go. First  come down. I promise the cockroach wont come back.
Khushi: No. You promise you wont leave me alone anytime.
Arnav (smiled lovingly): Promise baby. I will never leave you alone. Now come.

She finally caught his hand and he helped her get down the kitchen slab. Thats when he realised her hands were cold as ice. That showed how much fear she had within because of that cockroach. Arnav took her back to the room ensuring he will never leave her alone.

FLASHBACK ENDS

The flashback had peeped in the minds of both Arnav and Khushi. Such a different bond they shared earlier. They heard Vivaan's voice and thats what made her leave Arnav's hand and move aside. Arnav composed himself to come out of this dilemma. Why was he even thinking about her?

Vivaan: Here you go Khushi.. All the required documents.

Khushi took the papers and kept in her bag. She didn't even check then thoroughly. Saying a quick bye to Vivaan and not waiting to see the other people around there she hurried to her car for getting away from this place.

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

Engagement day

Shashi: I cant believe this Khushi. How can you deny this function?
Khushi: Paapa please. I am just not in a mood to go anywhere. And I told you about that painting competition in the city orphanage? I need  to go there and prepare the kids. So I cant come. You congratulate Arnav and Aliya on my behalf.

Shashi: No Khushi. This wont look good. More than me they are close to you. What will I answer them?

Shashi was trying to convince Khushi but for some reasons she kept denying. Shashi gave up. He asked Khushi to call Anjali and inform about she not coming, only her father would. Khushi sat on the bed after her father left the room. This was right. It was better to ignore this day rather than being a part of it and spoiling her mood. But why will her mood spoil if Arnav is getting engaged? She never loved him. She never took him more than a friend. Then why was she avoiding his best day?

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

Arnav was wearing the best rich black suit. Suddenly someone came and helped him put the suit. He was Shyam. Arnav wore the suit and then turned around. Shyam had a smile on his face.

Shyan: Kya baat hai Saale Sahab. Aaj toh bilkul cha Gaye aap. Kaafi handsome lag rahe hai. (Wow Saale Sahab.. Today you are looking very handsome)
Arnav: ( chuckled): Aap se jyada nahi Jeejaji. (Not more than you Jeejaji)
Shyam: (smiled): How are you feeling today? Its such an important day of your life. ? Tensed?

Arnav was quiet. He never hide facts from his Jeejaji and today wasn't different.

Arnav: Kuch ajeeb lag raha hai.. (Feeling unusual).. Everything is about to change and I don't know if that change will be good for all of us or not.
Shyam: ( sighed): I can understand. You know Arnav when I was getting married to your Di, I never had this level of tension. Know why? Because I wanted to get married to your sister. The little time I spent with her when she used to work with me in my office, was enough to understand her and also realise my love and attraction for her. But how long do you know Aliya from ? 8 months? Were these 8 months enough to confirm you want to marry her?

Arnav: ( little frustrated): I took one long year to see the true face of a girl Jeejaji. A girl who stayed close to me, with me all the time. Its not about time Jeejaji. .. There should be a connection to take such decisions.
Shyam: And you feel this connection for Aliya? Are you sure Arnav?

Arnav had no reply . He kept on staring at Shyan's face for a while finding answers but that's when Anjali entered the room talking over the phone.

Anjali( on call): No way. You have to come. And I am sending you the car. I don't want to hear any excuses. Is that clear? ( PAUSE).. Good. Come soon.bye..

She cut the call and causally hugged her brother ,praised him for his looks today which were extra charming.
Shyam: Whom were you inviting so lovingly?
Anjali: Khushi.. She didn't come with Shashi uncle. Seems she had some work. Hoe could I allow her to skip this occasion? So finally I convinced her and she is coming. Anyways Chotte everyone is down. Aliya is come with her family. They are waiting for you. Come.

Anjali dragged her brother out giving him no time to eve react that Khushi was attending this party. Shyan could understand what was going in Arnav's mind. First of all he was so tensed about his relationship with Aliya and now Khushi's presence will affect him more.

 ***********

Khushi entered the Raizada house in the red saree which Anjali had gifted her specifically for this occasion. She was uncomfortable but Shashi soon came to her and received her happily

Shashi: I am so glad you came here. You were been missed. Come. Congratulate the couple.

Shashi forced Khushi towards Arnav and Aliya. They were standing together and definitely looking a perfect match. The moment Arnav's eyes met Khushi's, he felt a prick in his heart. Never in these 8 years he felt such pain like he did today. Shashi was called by someone and he left the other side. Khushi was about to wish the couple but a girl dragged Aliya towards some group of friends. Again Arnav and Khushi were left alone. She knew it was strange but since she had come here , it's better to fulfil the purpose.

Khushi: Sagaai mubarak. (Congratulations on your engagement)

Arnav: Sagaai abhi tak hui nahi hai (The engagement is yet to happen)

Khushi: Toh ho jaayegi. Kuch hi palo se koi faraq nahi padta. (Doesnt make a difference ..Hardly a matter of few more minutes)

Arnav: Kaafi jaldi hai tumhe meri sagaai ki? (You are very eager to see me engaged, arent you?)
Khushi:(Angrily): Dont overreact Arnav. Past mein jeena bund karo. (Stop living in your past)

Arnav: Jeeta tha Khushi.. Kaafi waqt laga tumhe bhoolne ke liye. Par ab mujhe tumse related koi baat naa yaad aati hai.. naa yaad karni hai. Main apne present se kaafi khush hoon. Kabhi laga nahi tha hum dobaara iss tarah se milenge. Shayad iss liye thoda overreact kar gaya. But not anymore. Aaj se.. infact abhi se.. mujhe yeh yaad bhi karna hai ki hum dono ke beech mein pehle koi rishta bhi tha. (I used to live in my past Khushi.. It took me long time to forget you.. But now I dont remember anything related to you. Neither I wish to. I am happy with my present. I never thought we will ever meet again in life. Thats why I overreacted some time. But not anymore. From today.. infact from right now.. I dont even wish to remember that we both ever shared a relationship in past)

Khushi was perplexed with the way he talked to her. She kept looking at him in shock. She always had seen a compassion in Arnav's eyes for her when they were together but today she could feel an intensity in them which was enough to burn all their memories into ashes. He walked away from her towards the small mandap where the family were waiting for the couple to come and complete their engagement ritual.

______________________________________________________________________________



Part 7

Arnav slid the ring in Khushi's finger , as gently as possible, without breaking their eye lock. She was baffled by this step of his. Every person around clapped for them. Seeing her expressions, he could understand this was the biggest surprise of her life. But he wanted it to happen this way. A day which none of the two can ever forget in their life. He touched her cheek softly as she looked at the ring in her finger. The same diamond ring which she wished to buy some day.

Arnav: This is not our engagement ring KG. That one will be more precious than this. I know we cannot get engaged just between our friends. We need to have our families beside us. Once I get a proper Job and settle all my family issues, the first thing I am going to do is meet your father and ask your hand in marriage. Until then we have to be satisfied with this temporary engagement  of ours.

Khushi: One minute Arnav.. Engagement? Marriage? What are you talking about? And this  ring? (She removed the ring from her finger).. WHat does this mean? Are you serious? I mean.. You think we should marry ? How can you take all this so seriously?

Arnav's heart thumped louder seeing her reactions, especially when she removed that ring so casually from her finger.

Khushi: Look Arnav.. I .. Ohh God. How should I say this to you. .? But. I think its high time now. I cannot cheat you for nothing. I dont want to give you false hopes.
Arnav became serious.

Arnav: FALSE HOPES?
Khushi: (Taking a deep breathe): Yes.. You heard it right Arnav. I know you have feelings for me but.. But I Dont Love you.. (there was a big pause as he kept watching her face in amusement).. Infact I never did. I never loved you Arnav..

Arnav was shocked with her revealtion. He caught her arms in rage.

Arnav: What did you say? You ? You never loved me? Then what was all that we shared until now? ..( he was still trying his best to control his anger.. He loved her too much to be frustrated on her).. Khushi please tell me this is a prank. You are just trying to pull my leg right? You dont mean to say all this. I gave you this surprise so you are trying to do the same now. Just tell me please..

She shoved his hands away and stepped back.

Khushi: Yes.. It was a prank.. A big prank .. But not the one happening now.. I am talking about the prank that I played on you since the day we met.. !! Arnav .. You know how me and NK keep challenging each other. So this was also a part of  it. We had a BET.. He told me about you, my would be new housemate . I was impressed with your character.. Soft.. simple and naive.. According to him, you cannot fall in love or relationship at this stage because you have your own responsibilities behind. But I challenged him , that I will prove him wrong. We had this bet Arnav.. I told him by the end of our first year in college, you will propose me.. And guess what? You did that too early.. You told me that you love me just in 5 months of our meet. I Won that same day.. But till then we were good friends too. I didnt wanted to lose that friendship of ours because of this bet. So even if I won, I kept this relation between us intact., Our friendship intact..

Arnav's eyes were red in rage.

Khushi: Arnav .. I know I should have told you this before .. But I am sorry ... I didnt wish to lose such a good friend who cares of me. I am sorry Arnav. I dont feel for you in that way.. And I am too young to even think of a relationship which we can share after 5 years from today.. Its too early to say that.. May be in future I can feel all this which you feel for me now.. We can think about it then.. But as of now.. I am sorry.. Please forgive me!! We should..  We should MOVE ON Arnav.. Please.. I am sorry..!!

She tried holding his hand and making him understand but he angrily pushed her back pointing a finger at her.

Arnav: Dont you dare touch me..!! MOVE ON? Its easy for you Khushi, not me.. I cannot believe this.. I feel for a selfish and immature girl like you. What not I did for you Khushi? I never thought this will be the outcome of my love. And you call yourself my friend? Friends DONT CHEAT Khushi. You can neither be my FRIEND nor my LOVE anymore. I HATE YOU.. I HATE YOU FOR CHEATING ME.. I HATE YOU KHUSHI.

He walked away from that place. Khushi was too emotional at the moment but she knew it was her fault. She should not have extended this Bet and play with Arnav's heart. But she never thought he seriously loves her so much.  She lost a good friend only because of her silly behaviour.

Flashback Ends

The claps around made Khushi come out of her past. She saw Arnav had already slid the ring in Aliya's finger and she was repeating the same now. The Raizada's were very happy. The moment the exchange of rings was done, Arnav's eyes involuntarily fixed at Khushi. His Di hugged him at that same instance, blessing him and Aliya but his gaze didnt move at all from his target. He could feel her eyes moist. As if she was hurt being a part of this ceremony. The moment Khushi saw him looking at her, she turned around. What was wrong with her? Why was she becoming so vulnerable? Why did she feel that pang in her heart now? Whatever happened today was the reality. Whatever they had between them was their past. Nothing can be altered now. A lone tear escaped her eye which she wiped off gently before anyone else sees it. She just hoped he doesnt notice all this. She herself was confused with the emotions bubbling inside her. She cannot confuse him with her actions when she cannot justify them to her own self. While the crowd got busy enough in wishing the couple, Khushi took the opportunity to flee from that place. She was suffocating here and she herself didnt know why?

***********

Night

Arnav was lying on his bed , eyes opened and he was staring the ceiling blankly. Everything was working just like it had to be. He decided to settle down with Aliya because his family wanted. Then why did he feel disturbed? Only because his past was back in his present? Does it even matter now? She never loved him though he always had loved ONLY her. He does not know if he still Loved her. Infact he didnt wanted to answer that question even to himself, forget answering it to anyone else. He tried to close his eyes but everytime he did that, her image flashed across. The same visual when a lone tear escaped her eyes and she wiped it off before anyone could notice. Why? Why did she cry? Did it affect her?

He pushed the quilt aside and got up from the bed. This night  was not easy. Infact all his future days and nights were not going to be easy until Khushi keeps coming before him in this house. His phone rang. He answered the call because it was Aliya on the other end.

Arnav: Hello.
Aliya: Didnt sleep?
Arnav: No. I was not getting one.
Aliya chuckled.
Aliya: Thats what happens when you love someone so dearly. I am so happy today and this excitment is not letting me close my eyes. Is the same happening with you too? I mean.. when you close your eyes, you are seeing me?

That was such a complicated question. NO. He didnt see Aliya.. It was someone else he was seeing and thinking about. Damm!! THis was so wrong. His silence was not liked by Aliya. She started coaxing him to tell what he was going through rather than being quiet like this..

Arnav: Stop it Aliya.. You know I dont express anything so easily. Lets not discuss all this. I am sleepy..
Aliya: Arnav wait.!! PLease..

He didnt cut the call ..

Aliya: Is there something bothering you? I dont know why but I felt like you are little disturbed today since the time we were together for the ring ceremony.. Are you happy Arnav?

Arnav gulped down the pain which striked directly in his heart.

Arnav: Aliya.. I am happy. !! Okay? Now good night.
He disconnected the call and threw his phone on the bed. He lied? Why ? This was so unfair on his part to lie to his would be wife that too something which had to be the base of their relationship?

***********

Gupta House

Shashi: Stop making Stories baby. I know something is majorly wrong.  You came away from that party without informing anyone.? Why?
Khushi kept arranging her Red saree in the closet. She was trying her best to ignore her father's doubts.
Khushi: I told you Paapa, I got a call from the  Orphanage. They wanted to meet me.
Shashi: Is it? Okay.. let me check your call history.

Shashi picked her phone from bed. She quickly snatched it from him and that action proved enough for Shashi to know she was lieing. She lowered her eyes.

Shashi: Today when I was talking to Anjali, and told her that you and Arnav knew each other before, she expressed a surprise because according to her when she had asked Arnav if he knows you, he had clearly denied.  What is that suppose to mean Khushi? You told me you both studied together and know  each other , even though not properly ,  you still are aware of each other from past. Then why did Arnav lie ?

Khushi: He lied to his sister, its his problem Paapa. I didnt lie to you.
Shashi: But you are hiding something. I can read your face Khushi. I am your father. I may not have given you birth or I can never take the place of your mother, but still , I can understand when you hide things from me. So dont stretch it that far. Tell me what is wrong?

Khushi was again in tears. She hugged her father asking a "Sorry". He didnt know what was so wrong that made Khushi cry like a baby. He caressed her and she told her father everything.. How she had put  a bet with NK, how she and Arnav stayed together in the same apartment, their friendship, he proposing her, she winning the bet, he taking their relationship seriously, finally proposing for marriage, and then break up.. Shashi was shocked that his daughter could do something like this. He knew Khushi was very immatured at the beginning, she took life very coldly, without  fearing anyone or anything. And now he realised that it was only this act that was the turning point of her life.She started changing and taking life seriously after this incident. Thats the reason she was so hunble and helpful now. But it was too late. His daughter didnt even know if she loved Arnav, his daughter though had realised her fault, still there was nothing that could change now. Arnav was engaged to Aliya and was moving ahead in life. He advised Khushi never to play with people's heart. It hurts badly and only gives us the ill luck in return. If Arnav was not in good terms now with her, she had to accept it  and move ahead in life. She can do nothing beyond that. Khushi was happy that her father at least didnt pounce on her but guided her what was right to do in future.

______________________________________________________________________________



Part 8

When you make a mistake, you should regret and apolozise. To forgive or not is the other person's choice. But that doesnt allow you stay in guilt, hiding yourself from that person forever. Life goes on. And she believed in this theory too. Khushi felt much better sharing her wrong deeds with her father. At least she could talk to somebody about her mistake and tell him that she really was Sorry for what she did. It was her father who taught her not to hide. Mistakes happen but a true human should learn from their mistakes and walk ahead never to repeat them again in life.

Khushi entered the Raizada House. She saw the servants taking out the decorations from the wall. She ignored them and walked straight to the Stairs. Thats when she faced Arnav again. Their eyes met. None of them prepared for this meet, as always. But someone had to start somewhere.. Khushi had made up her mind to be normal. If he behaves good to her, that will be easier and if not then she was ready to take his ignorance, his attitude and all that hurting words if he wishes to shower on her.

Khushi: Hi..
Arnav: What was wrong with you yesterday? You left without informing anyone.

He noticed that??? She tried finding some excuse for it.

Khushi: Yeah.. I had some urgent work. And had no time to inform anyone.(She knew he was not convinced with her reply. He can never hide his feelings, his eyes expresses them all. )..

Arnav: Never mind. I am glad that you made some time for my Engagement ceremony at least.
Khushi( Faked a smile): Hmm. Congrats again and wish you and Aliya a very happy life.

She had the courteousy to even wish him  that? He faked a smile and left downstairs. Khushi was quite monotonous with his behaviour but she decided to take it for good and leave but suddenly she was been stopped again by his voice.

Arnav: Khushi one minute ..

She didnt know what else was left to talk now.

Arnav: I had to ask you something.
She folded her hands giving him a go ahead though internally she was quite reluctant because she didnt wanted to land into any such trouble which can screw their present lives.

It was not wise to have that conversation on the stairs, so he asked her to follow him in his room. She was quite uncomfortable because she was feeling out of place at the moment to be at any place which was HIS. But the moment they both reached that secluded area and he shared his point, she was totally blank..

Khushi: What? What did you say? You are planning to tell Aliya about us?
Arnav: There's nothing wrong in it. She is my future bride and she has all rights to know my past. Especially when that past has returned back in my present. You know I dont lie Khushi, neither do I believe in hiding important things. I am just not that kind of a person. So I think, Aliya should know about us. I mean.. Our past!!
Khushi: I respect your intentions Arnav but sorry. This time I dont think you are doing right. Its going to complicate everything. She hardly knows me and it will get uncomfortable later.
Arnav: You always think only of yourself, dont you? I really dont care who will be uncomfortable and what complications it might create in our lives. All I know is Aliya has a right to know about her Fiancee's past. And I am going to tell her that.

Khushi: Fine.. If you have already decided everything then my advise wont affect it. Go ahead. Please feel free to share it with her. I will handle things if they come my way.

She was angered because for her this will be very difficult if Aliya starts being negative suddenly. Knowing how possessive and insecured Aliya was , it will not be good if she comes to know about their past, that will just add to her doubtful nature.

**********

Flashback Starts

Arnav: KG.. Put the glasses down.. What are you doing?
Khushi: Nothing. I am just making your work easy.  (She started wiping the glasses helping him )

Arnav: You are not. Do you even know what place is this ? Its a Pub.. And you are not allowed to be here.
Khushi: Thats unfair. You can be here,  I cant? Why? Only because I am a girl?
Arnav (snatching the glass from her): I work here KG. Its my job to Serve the customers and get my weekly wages. You are not allowed here KG.. Just get back to the apartment and stay there.

Khushi denied.

Khushi: I wont go until you come with me. We have exams tomorrow and you are busy serving customers?

Arnav now got her point. She was concerned for him and his academic career.

Arnav (holding her hand and dragging her aside): Dont wory about my exams. I will clear them all. But if you waste time here, you will not pass any. So just go back and study.
Khushi: No Arnav.. You take an off today and come with me.. How much do they pay you for one day? I will pay it to you.
Arnav : You think I will take the money from you?
Khushi: (Sighed in frustration): You wont.. I know. But if thats the only way to make you study rather than work here today, I am ready to even force you .. Please Arnav.. For me..!!

She pouted like  a kid and he could not deny her. She was his well wisher. He tucked her hairs behind the ear.

Arnav: Okay.. 2 minutes. I will inform my Manager and be right back. Wait for me outside..
Khushi (Happily): Ohh Arnav.. I love you for this.. Come soon.. Bye..

She left outside not realising what she just said.. LOVE ? She loves him? As if he doesnt know.. Her concern, her worry for him, always made him feel she has kept a special place for him in her heart. He watched her till she left the pub safely and then turned back to get the permission for a one day off.

Flashback Ends

A hand on his shoulder made him come out of the thoughts.. Why was he even getting into his past? The Pub atmosphere around and the drink in his hand had dragged his mind towards those days . He gulped the drink and looked aside to see the woman sitting next to him passing a  smile.

Aliya: You couldnt live without meeting me even for 24 hours, could you? This is the hangover of our engagement. Dont you think so?

She needed his attention all the time and her sweet talks just proved that. She was not wrong. He had promised a lifetime commitment to her. He placed the glass down on the table and tried to speak what he had called her for.

Aliya: I have never seen you drinking in the day time. Anything serious?
Arnav: Aliya .. I had a Past..!!

He didnt hesitate to reveal this and neither did he beat around the bush to make himself clear. Aliya was silent and little shocked too. It was evident her mood changed and she was serious by his confession.

Arnav: You have asked me this once before and I didnt reveal much of it. Thats because I had buried those old memories deep inside me. We got engaged yesterday and now I feel should be telling you everything before its too late.
Aliya: (Smiled): I am glad you want to let me know this. But seriously Arnav, its fine. I dont wish to know what that past was or who that girl is. It doesnt matter anymore.
Arnav: It does.!!
Aliya: What do you mean it does? Past is Past Arnav. It cannot drag into our present.
Arnav: It can..!! Not willingly but conincidently. My Past is back before me.. Something which I never expected to happen..

Aliya was losing her mind but she cannot lose the grip of this topic. She definately needed details now.

Arnav: (Holding her hand): I Loved a girl.. Its not something I can explain why and how? It just happened. We became friends and I loved everything about her. I liked her innocence, her naughtiness.. All her actions made me think she loves me too. It took me a year to realise , she never wanted to cross the line of friendship and take me as her life partner. She had put a bet for making me fall for her. And she won.. !! That was it.. The end of our friendship.. The end of our so called relation.

Aliya's mind had mixed thoughts.. She never thought Arnav Singh Raizada could anytime fall in so much love with anyone before .. She always had seen him as an Introvert personality with few close friends . He was never an open book for anyone, not even his Di.. But seemed like he was forced into such a drastic change of personality by that one incident in his life years ago.

Aliya: It happens.. She didnt value what had come for her. Because she was never destined for you. I was.. I am the one who can take the place as your life partner Arnav.. So I really dont care if she is back or something. I dont even wish to know her name or where she is at the present.

All she wanted to know was "Does he still FEEL for her?"  But Aliya never got the courage to ask him that. She feared what his response would be. If its anything which can hurt her, she just wished to ignore it at the moment and let life pass the way it was. She did not want any complications. Arnav was happy seeing how maturedly Aliya took this past of his. Aliya was his family's choice but today for the first time he respected the decision with heart of starting a relationship with her. He just wanted to prove himself that nothing was difficult. He wanted to prove himself nothing can change him back to the man he was 8 years back and somewhere he wanted to prove Khushi, that he was more happy and contended today than he was before when she was in his life. This was a war between his past and future.. Where he wanted his future to win..

***********

Gupta House

Khushi : No.. I dont want to know if he told Aliya about us or not Paapa. Its his wish.

She served the food and sat next to Shashi starting her Dinner. Shashi was observing how frustrated his daughter was. But at the same time he could also see some uneasiness in her. He dipped the spoon in the Kheer and brought the spoon towards her lips. She paused..

Shashi: What did I tell you yesterday? Just go with the flow Khushi. Let him take decisions for his life and you  respect it. Likewise he will respect yours. So stop thinking so much. Eat.

She allowed her father to feed her. Her father was like a role model for her. Whatever he advises were always for her benefit.
Shashi: Okay.. I forgot to tell you.. Vivaan had called me today evening..
Khushi (Eating): I too saw his miss calls. Will call him later. Why did he call you?
Shashi: He needed my permission to take you out..

Khushi stopped eating..

Khushi: Where he wants to take me? I hope not for a Date Paapa.
Shashi: Why? Whats wrong in that? He is a nice guy and handsome too. He has a smiling face at least not like Arnav Singh Raizada who doesnt know to stretch his lips for a smile.
Khushi (Interrupting): WHo said he doesnt know? He knows it .His smile is precious.. But when he does, he kills so many hearts .. (She had no regret in praising him even today..  )
Shashi: Really? He even smiles? Thats a news for me.
Khushi: Thats because you dont know him completely. He has the best smile I have ever seen a guy having. His eyes sparkles with innocence when he does that.

Shashi was thrilled noticing the excitement in Khushi as she described Arnav. Was this an indication of something which should not happen? Something which can ruin three lives ahead ?

Shashi: You seem to be quite impressed by him huhh? Even now?
Khushi zipped her talks. She had no idea why she was sharing all this with her father.
Shashi: Come on .. Dont feel ackward. Be frank enough ..
Khushi :Emmm. Yes. I was impressed once. Not now.. He is not like before Paapa. He has changed.. And there is nothing common between him now and him earlier.

Shashi: Whats the reason behind this change? Have you thought that?
Khushi: May be his work pressure or something to do with the family.. Those days he was free to live the way he wanted to .. Now he stays with his family and being the responsible one in the house, he likes to hide his personality and stay strict..
Shashi (Sighed): May be you are right. .Or may be wrong..

Khushi: What is that suppose to mean?
Shashi: May be you are the reason he is like this today?
Khushi : WHAT ? Me?
Shashi : Yes .. YOU.. Khushi sometimes we do things unintentionally and that spoils the entire future.. Not just ours but even the opposite person's. I think Arnav faced the same when he came to know about the bet. You told me he left the college, he moved into some other city having no contacts with his old friends. May be he really loved you so intensely that he could not stay happy anymore. He indulged himself into his work and goal so much , which can make him forget you. He succeeded in becoming a rich and famous personality and also in living a life .. Without you. .

Khushi was now realising the depth of Arnav's way in becoming  Arnav Singh Raizada. Her eyes watered but Shashi wiped off the tears before they can roll down.

Shashi: I am your father Khushi.. But I will not hesitate to point your mistakes when needed. You might be the reason that a charming and smiling boy turned into such a stubborn personality today. If you really regret your actions, then do something which can make him come back to his original self. I guess that would be your repentance and the only way you will be relieved from this mistake.

Her father had a  point. The Arnav today was really not the person she had expected him to be. And if she was the reason behind his gloomy present then she will do everything to brighten his future.

Khushi: Thanks Paapa. I will surely keep this in mind and work on it. I have wronged him and now I will make it right too. Anshuman might be a reason I am going in that house till now, but from today, my next important task is to get Arnav his life back.. His true life.. his true self..

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 9

Raizada House

When Khushi entered the house , she saw Aliya and Anjali talking something in the Living room.

Aliya: Di I will learn it  myself. But please do not help me.
Anjali: Aliya,  I appreciate your efforts but Chotte is very peculiar about his diet. He will never compromise with the taste or quality of the food. That is why I am telling you, allow me to help you in cooking.
Aliya: I will ensure he will get the best served. Please Di.. Please Please Please..

Khushi stood at some distance not to interrupt their conversation but Anjali saw her and asked her to join them.

Khushi: Hi Aliya..
Aliya: Hey Khushi. Now you please explain Di what my point is. I want to cook for Arnav and she is asking me to take help. Is that fair?
Khushi: Uhh... I think Anjali is right. When people are particular about their food habits, we should not try something on our own until we are perfect.
Aliya: Ohh God. It's waste to get your advise. I dont know. I am going and cooking the Breakfast. Excuse me..

Aliya left in the kitchen and Anjali sighed.

Anjali: Hope Chotte likes the food. You know Khushi, I am not against Aliya making this attempt, but these days I cannot predict when and for what reason Chotte might lose his temper. I dont know what's so wrong with him. He gets angry very easily unlike before. I never interfere in his matters that time and ask Shyam to check. He and shyam really share a good rapport. But today even Shyam is not here for Lunch. So little worried.

Khushi had somewhere realised why Arnav was acting short tempered these days. It was her presence around him that he was unable to accept. If the matter wouldn't have been related to Anshuman, Khushi would have stopped coming here since long, but today, it was just not Anshuman she was thinking about, Arnav had to be brought out of his Shell. She had to turn him to a man he was before. Happy and Jovial. Anjali shook Khushi.

Anjali: Where are you lost?
Khushi: Emm.. Nothing Anjali.  Where is Anshu?
Anjali: He is still sleeping. Yesterday he was watching football match with Arnav till late night. And slept late. Let me wake him up. But meanwhile,  I have something to ask you Khushi.
Khushi: Ask me? About?
Anjali: Lets walk..

She guided Khushi towards her room where Anshu was sleeping .

Anjali: Khushi, you never told me you and Chotte studied in the same college for a year and knew each other.

Khushi's throat was stuck.

Anjali: Your father told me on the day of Chotte's engagement. That's when I came to know this.
Khushi:Well.. Yes we know each other Anjali but ..
Anjali: I know.. Not properly right? Actually  I am not surprised. CHotte is not good in having  friendship with girls. Infact he has only few friends. That's his nature. What I wanted to ask you is that have you ever seen Chotte, when you both studied together, with some girl who was constantly with him all the time?

Khushi kind of understood what Anjali meant. But what should be her reply?

Anjali: Chotte had some relationship in the past. So do you have any idea who that girl is ? When  I ask him, he never tells anything about that girl, not even her name. But I seriously need to know Khushi because Aliya told me that Arnav shared a bit of his past with her yesterday wherein he also mentioned, this girl was back in his life. I dont understand what does he mean by Back ? I just hope she doesn't create any complexities in his life again. You have no idea how he had handled himself after that incident when he came to know she was fooling him. I dont want him to face anything like that again.

Khushi was shaken from inside. So Arnav told Aliya about his past but never shared her name with anyone? Everytime she heard from others how difficult it was for Arnav to get out of her thoughts, she felt enraged on her own self. She was guilty on her actions and felt like making things right then and there , only if this was possible. They had reached Anjali's room by now.

Anjali: Just try to recollect if you have any information about that girl. No hurry..
Khushi:(Faking a smile): What will do getting her info?
Anjali (Became serious): Meet her and warn her not to spoil my brother's life again. He is entering a new phase of his life, and she should strictly stay away from him, in all ways.
Khushi was very nervous but she still smiled and noded a Yes. Anshu woke up and Anjali got busy with him. Meanwhile the servant came there and informed them that Aliya needed some help in the Kitchen. Anjali chuckled.

Anjali: See.. I told her not to try anything. Khushi..? Can you go and check ? I will get Anshu ready by then.

Khushi needed to leave this room. She was already feeling guilty with the conversation she and Anjali just had. She readily agreed.

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

Kitchen

Aliya: I tried making the dough for the Paratha's but seriously Khushi, its not easy. Its just sticking in my fingers and spoiling my nail paint.
Khushi : Should I help you?
Aliya: You are most welcome.  I will make the Juice for Arnav till then.

Khushi tied the Dupatta across her shoulder and washed her hands. There was a time when she was a pathetic cook, but time had changed her. She cooked better now and somewhere Arnav was responsible for this change. After all he was the first person who had taught her how to cook, especially the Methi Paratha's. She made the dough and started kneeding them into small balls. Aliya was only observing her for a while and later left the kitchen since she got a call from her friend. It was Khushi who managed to make the breakfast ready for Arnav. She liked doing this and didn't wish to think why she liked ? The breakfast was served on the table. Aliya thanked her and rushed upstairs to call Arnav.

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

Arnav got down the stairs with Aliya who was looking super excited for Arnav's comment. She had made Pan cakes and Juice. The Aloo paratha was made by Khushi but at the present she didn't tell Arnav that. Khushi and Arnav stole  a glance and she was the first person to shift her gaze away.

Khushi: Uhh.. Anjali I will wait outside.. You all finish the breakfast.
Anjali (Stopped her): Arre? Why cant you eat something with us? Sit..
Khushi: No, I had my breakfast with Paapa and I am really not hungry again.
Anjali: Little juice with us wont harm.. Sit..!!

She forcibly made Khushi sit beside her whereas Arnav and Aliya took seats opposite to them. Arnav knew why she denied sitting with them. She was uncomfortable just like he was. Aliya poured the juice for Arnav and he started serving the breakfast for himself. The first dish he picked were the Pancakes .Aliya was desperately waiting for his comment. He made a slight bitter face tasting the pancakes..

Anjali: Chotte? What happened?
Arnav: Nothing Di.. They are little salty.
Aliya: Ohh.. But I had tasted them.. (She replied  in a low voice feeling sad)
Anjali: No problem Chotte. Eat the Paratha's. Your favourite Methi Paratha's.

Arnav took  a small piece of the paratha and stuffed in his mouth. Not even few seconds had passed that Arnav stopped eating and starred at Khushi.. She quickly gulped the juice lo hoping he didn't make it out who cooked the Paratha's. Before he could react much, Anjali tasted the Paratha's and saw Khushi.

Anjali: Nice Paratha's Khushi. How did you know Chotte likes Cumin seeds in Meethi Paratha's ? They are cooked perfectly. Hai naa Chotte ?

Khushi was speechless and Aliya little jealous of the praises Khushi received instead of her.

Anjali: Aliya.. You too come and eat.

Arnav stood up picking his laptop bag.

Arnav: Di.. I will have my breakfast out. I am getting late.

Even after Anjali's request to finish the breakfast, Arnav didn't wait. Khushi kind of understood why he left without eating. But Aliya and Anjali were confused. Aliya seemed little happy that even though Anjali had praised the paratha's but Arnav didn't. Neither he praised nor he ate it completely.

***********

Gupta House

She threw her purse on the couch folding her arms in anger.

Khushi: What does he think of himself? So much of attitude ?That too on food? What is the fault of those Aloo paratha's ? All thanks to Anjali who didnt leave a chance letting him know I cooked it.. But wait a minute.. He recognized it instantly when he tasted.. That I cooked it , not Aliya.. Uff..!! Yeh kya musibat hai.. Kuch karo toh gussa.. Kuch naa karo toh gussa.. Kya karu main? ( What difficulty is this? If I do something, he gets angry. If I dont do anything , he still gets angry.. What should I do?)

She sat on the couch in frustration..

Shashi: Wohi karo joh abhi kar rahi ho .. (Do the same what you doing now.. )

Shashi came there with a glass of Juice for her.

Khushi (Taking the glass): Paapa.. How many times did I tell you , please dont do all this for me. It should be my role to serve you. THis is overpampering.
Shashi (Sitting next to her): Even I dont want to make this a habit baby. Otherwise your in laws will come and taunt me in  future.. (He chuckled)..
Khushi : Paapa? (She quickly hugged her father from the side).. You think I will make my In laws do all this for me.
Shashi: No..But I cannot guarantee your husband would be saved from doing such gestures for you.. Do you realise how much angry you get these days? For silly reasons? If this continues, I am sure your husband will have to calm you down this way.

Her father had a point.. She really got irritated very easily these days. She was the same few years back when she stayed with Arnav.

Shashi: What happened today? You cooked Aloo Paratha's for him? Whats the Plan Khushi? Direct Cook from a Psychologist?
Khushi : Paapa please..I am seeing how you make fun of me these days. This is not fair Paapa..
Shashi: (Cuddling his daughter): I am gathering memories Khushi.. The day you will leave this  house and go with your husband,  I will miss all this fun.

Khushi had tears in her eyes knowing the reason.

Khushi: I am not going anywhere.. At least not without you..Whoever that man is,  if he cannot accept my Paapa in his house,  in his family, I will not marry him..
Shashi: Emm? Really? Then I will have to build a good rapport with him than you. (he chuckled again bringing a smile on Khushi's face).. Lets stop talking irrational things and come back to reality..Did you really cook for him?
Khushi: It was just a coincidence Paapa. Aliya was supposed to make his breakfast but she could not and asked my help.
Shashi: Which you offered.. ?? Khushi..  I want you to get Arnav out of his shell but not by taking Aliya's place. She is his fiancee and nothing should happen to that relationship because of your interference. Do anything but beyond that circle which connects Aliya and Arnav together. You are getting what I mean?

Khushi noded in agreement. Her father was right. She cannot let any harm to Arnav and Aliya's relationship because of her. She had to think properly to give a kick start to her mission.

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

AR Office - Next Morning

He entered his office and the started heading towards his cabin. The moment he opened the door, he was stunned to see the flower vases and small plants kept around his desk and on the table. What the hell was this ? He  closed the door and entered inside.. One thing he noticed was that these were his favourite plants. But who placed them here? There was a small note placed at the center of his table. He read it to clairfy his doubt.

" I couldnt find anything better to make up your mood. These plants are token of life and I gift them to you for a fresh start. Between us .. Forgive me Arnav.. Please..

Khushi Gupta (KG)"

He crumpled the paper in his fist and threw it in the corner. What nonsense was this? Does she think such gifts will change his hatred for her? He dialed his secretary Aman Mathur who came inside the next moment. .

Arnav: Where were you when all this was arranged in my cabin? Is there some plant exhibition here ? I want all these plants out of my place.. Get it cleared..
Aman: Sure  ASR..But where should we keep them?

That was such a valid question he asked.

Arnav: Send it back to this person who placed them here. And next time, I dont wish to see her around my Office premises..If she does reach here, you will be fired.. Am I clear?

Aman was highly shocked. He had thought Miss Khushi Gupta was his Boss's known friend. But seeing his Boss's anger, seemed like he had misunderstood this entire concept.

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 10

Shashi was shocked to see so many plants been kept at the garden area of their home. Khushi seemed to be standing all upset, watching the gardner plant them.

Shashi: Khushi? DId we buy some new plants for the garden? We already have so many of them here.
Khushi: I bought it. But not for us. For HIM.
Shashi: HIM?
Khushi (In frustration): Paapa .. Arnav. !!! I bought it for him. I gifted him all these at his office. But he sent them back here. What am I supposed to do with this guy? He is just not ready to accept anything from me.

Shashi then understood the whole point. He placed his arm around Khushi's shoulder and started walking inside with her.

Shashi: He is a very tough nut to crack. I cannot see my daughter banging her head so much on this matter. If he is not willing to accept any such gifts or your apology,  let it go.
Khushi (Stopped walking): Let it go? How can I let it go Dad? You taught me to fight for the right and now when I am, you asking me to step back? I wont do it. I will earn an apology from Arnav and also get him back to his real self. Bus.!!

She folded her hands gesturing how confident she was in this matter.

Shashi: Okay. If thats what you wish. Now go and get ready. Dont you have to go out with Vivaan? He will be here in some time. Get ready.
Khushi: Oops. I forgot it totally. I will go. Bye Dad.

SHe kissed Shashi's cheeks and hurried to her room upstairs. Shashi was very happy seeing her giving a start towards her future. Though she might not have realised this officially but Shashi liked Vivaan and wanted him to be his future Son in law. He was trying his best to make Khushi spend as much time as she can with Vivaan so that she knows him well and says a Yes for the wedding because like every father, he wanted to see his daughter settle down as soon as possible and have her own family.

***********

City Center Mall

There was a painting competition organised in the Mall for the Kids from an Orphanage . Every Kid would get one partner from the audiences around in the Mall and they together will do a hand painting. The paintings would  then be auctioned and the price will be given to the Orphanage for the betterment of these Kids. Khushi was volunterring this work along with Vivaan and was helping the kids to line up and get seated . Very soon the audiences would start arriving and will  be convinced to participate in this art and encourage the kids. As expected a lot many people supported this event.

Arnav coincidently had been to this Mall and thats when he met Vivaan. He was been escorted here at the venue by Vivaan who asked him to be there for some time and cheer up the kids . Arnav seemed to be disinterested.

Arnav: Vivaan.. This is for a good cause, I agree but I have to leave. So may be some other time. You carry on..
Vivaan: Ohh come on Arnav.. Little time here wont make you a big loss. Please.. For the kids.. ?

Arnav would never have denied such a good cause but if he was still doing it, the reason was purely the presence of Khushi. He just didnt wish to have such coincident meets with her. But he agreed to wait for some time. He heard the kids screaming "Khushi Jiji" asking her to pass the Drawing sheets to them. She was more busy than the other volunteers because the kids loved her more and wanted her attention more than anyone else. She was wearing a simple chudidaar, hair half tied and few strands left loose, which were falling on her face again and again even though she kept moving them away. What the hell was He doing? Admiring her? He turned his face around because this was not right.

Khushi saw him. Initially she was happy that this coincidence happened. At  least she will try to talk to him on that plants matter after the event gets over and but only if he stays back till then. She was helping some kids and their partners by passing them the colours and also helping them paint. Her fingers were full of colours . Her hair kept messing and she  was unable to move them away. In the process of trying she bumped with Arnav who was standing quiet in the crowd and checking some messages on his phone. He caught her before she could fall down and get hurt. She thanked him but the moment he saw her eyes growing wide seeing his suit, he checked what was wrong with it. His suit was spoilt by the paint stuck on her palms. He clenched his jaw in anger looking straight in her eyes. SHe was about to bite her own finger expressing how sorry she was for doing this but he caught her hand.

Holding her hand was only a way to convey her she cannot bite her finger because it had paint all over it. Sherealised his action and stopped but that had lead them both to a different world, their past, when such an incident did happen.

Flashback Starts

Diwali - 8 years back

Arnav banged the door as they were getting late for the Diwali night party which their Indian  college gang  was celeberating tonight.

Arnav: KG aaj Diwali hai tumhaari Shaadi nahi, Why are you taking so long to get ready? Come out. NK has ringed us 3 times already.

"Coming.. Bus 2 minutes", she screamed from inside. Arnav sighed and straightened his White Kurta which KG had specially gifted him for this Diwali just like he had gifted her the Lehnga Choli. He had always seen her in western outfits only and wondered how beautiful she will look in an Indian traditional dress. This was the same outift she was wearing in her room from past 1 hour. The door opened and she came out, standing just at the doorstep flaunting her dress.

Khushi: Ten-te-den.. How am I looking Arnav?

He was caught by her beauty. She looked enthral and no man could just take eyes off her today. He gulped down his feelings when she clicked her fingers before his face.

Khushi: Kya soch rahe ho?

Arnav : Umm. Yehi ki kya comment karu..
Khushi was more excited. She went to the mirror and started checking herself again.

Khushi: Dont think so much. Jo bhi yaad aaye.. wohi bol do.. Jaldi..
Arnav (Standing behind her and watching her face in the mirror): Bol du?
Khushi: Hmm..
Arnav: Khushi.. Aaj tum..
Khushi (raising her eyes ): Haan..Aaj main?
Arnav: Bilkul..

She was getting desperate to know how he will praise her with words today.

Khushi: Bilkul kya?
Arnav: Delhi ki auto rickshaw lag rahi ho..

He started laughing aloud seeing that shocked expression on her face. She turned around taking some Rangoli colours in her fist to throw it on him. Both started running. Khushi was chasing him ..She fell down on the floor, because she could not run in that high heels sandal. He stopped and came to help her.

Khushi (Moving his hand away): Dont touch me. I am looking like an Auto Rickshaw right? Huhh!! Let me go and change this. But let me remind you, its your gift to me. You selected this colour, I didnt.

She tried leaving but he stopped her and neated her messed hair.

Arnav: I have never seen a girl as beautiful as you Khushi. Thats how I felt seeing you in this dress. Thanks for wearing it for me.

She seemed convinced now and in the process of blushing hard she was about to bite her finger but he stopped her gesturing it was covered with the colours.

Arnav: Aur taarif karu yeah Madam ready hai Party mein jaane ke liye.. ?

He got up and extended his hand for her to hold. She held him and setting her dress properly both left the House.

Flashback Ends.

The kids screamed aloud finishing the painting and thats what broke Arnav and Khushi's stance as well. He left her hand and she moved back towards the kids who circled her and started showing the paintings. Arnav's heart beated fast and he did not wish that to continue. He left the place at once. Khushi while checking the paintings , scanned her surroundings to see him but he had gone.

***********

Raizada House

Anjali, Aliya and Khushi were busy sitting in the Living room, having their evening tea. Khushi could not make it up for the morning, so she was here now. Anjali forced her for the tea and some chit chat with her and Aliya until  Anshuman is back from the Shopping with Arnav and Shyam. They had lots of fun and girls talks. Finally Arnav, Shyam and Anshu were back home.

Aliya: Hi Handsome.. !! (She quickly rushed towards him and wrapped her arms in his).. I was waiting from so long .
Arnav passed a weak smile to her and tried his best to avoid even noticing Khushi.

Arnav: Anshu is very choosy in his toys. He made us run behind him in 4 different stores.
Aliya: Ohh!! Then he is just like me... He only likes the best.

She clearly was flirting with him whereas others except Khushi were enjoying this phase of Arnav and Aliya's life. Khushi kept her gaze on the magazine that was on her lap. Aliya forced Arnav and Shyam to sit with them and have their tea.

Anjali served the tea. Aliya snatched the magazine from Khushi.

Aliya: Stop reading so much Khushi. Okay lets continue that old topic..
Anjali: Yea.. She is right. We were having so much fun.. So Khushi.. Tell us what kind of qualities do you expect to see in your future husband?

Khushi didnt wish to answer this. Not in front of Arnav at least.. She tried to ignore and change the topic but the ladies didnt allow her to skip this. Shyam watched Arnav's expressions and could easily Arnav was showing a disinterested and unbothered look on his face.

Anjali: Aliya.. I think she is purposely hiding. May be she already has chosen that man and does not want us to know about him.
Khushi: No Anjali.. Aisa kuch nahi hai.. (Its nothing like you think)
Aliya (Chuckled): Then tell us . We should also know .. May be we can help you find your Mr Right?

Khushi sighed and gave up .

Khushi: I think he should be honest.. In his feelings for me. Rest all can be adjusted.

Aliya, Anjali and shyam liked her thought but Arnav could not stay quiet.

Arnav: Honest? Really? (He asked giving a sarcastic look at her)
Khushi was baffled when he raised this concern. She never expected him to talk to her and that too at least not in this matter.
Arnav: Will you be honest to him ?  (There was a complete silence around.. He continued..).. I hope you know what the meaning of honesty is .. !!

She felt little humiliated now.

Arnav: Khushi its very easy to expect something from your partner but equally difficult to give that same back to him. I hope you realise this.

Before he could utter some more stuffs to khushi which can lead Anjali and Aliya in a dilemma, Shyam clutched Arnav's hand pressing it , gesturing him , he was going overboard. Arnav stopped speaking and stood up..

Arnav: Sorry..!! I got involved unnecessarily in your conversation. Carry on..!!

He excused himself and left for his room.. He could not believe he just said all that to Khushi. Was he the same man who had once told her "Iss pyaar mein sahi aur galat ka koi matlab hai.. Agar kisi cheez ka matlab hai.. toh woh yeh hai.. Ki main tumse bahut pyaar karta hoon .. KHUSHI..!!" Today he was definately counting her wrong doings, ignoring that self created statement  of his.!!

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 11

Arnav: Sorry..!! I got involved unnecessarily in your conversation. Carry on..!!

He excused himself and left for his room.. He could not believe he just said all that to Khushi. Was he the same man who had once told her "Iss pyaar mein sahi aur galat ka koi matlab hai.. Agar kisi cheez ka matlab hai.. toh woh yeh hai.. Ki main tumse bahut pyaar karta hoon .. KHUSHI..!!" Today he was definately counting her wrong doings, ignoring that self created statement  of his.!!

Anjali: What is wrong with Chotte? How could he just say something like this ?(she stood up seeing Arnav leaving for the stairs. )

Khushi was very much disturbed. Aliya was equally confused what made Arnav react so violently with Khushi. They hardly knew each other. Shyam had to handle the situation somehow.

Shyam: Rani Saheba.. He looks little tired today. Even in the car he was screaming at someone over his phone. You know he gets angry very easily these days.
Anjali: But this is not a way to behave with our Guest Shyam.. He cannot make such personal comments on someone's life when he does not know anything about them.
Aliya : Let me talk to him.. He needs my support probably.

Aliya rushed upstairs towards Arnav's room.. Khushi picked her bag to leave..

Anjali: Khushi. I am so sorry for the way he behaved..
Khushi: Its okay Anjaliji.. And please you dont be sorry.. I understand.. I should be leaving now.. Bye..

Even though Anjali wanted to stop her, Khushi didnt wait at all. She walked as fast as she could to get out of Raizada House. She was again hurt today because Arnav was really very rude on her.. May be her father was right. If he has no intentions to forgive her, she should stop trying these attempts. Because in doing all this she was hurting herself and Arnav both. She got inside her car and left the place.

************
Arnav didnt allow Aliya inside his room. He wanted to be alone for sometime. He cannot let anyone just come and advise him how wrong he was for taunting Khushi when she was busy telling the qualities she wished to see in her life partner. What was happening to him? Why did he lose his control? Was it just because she was talking about seeing honesty in that man when she herself wasnt following it earlier? Or was he hurt even thinking about Khushi getting settled with someone else ?

"No", he fisted his fingers looking at himself in the mirror. He cannot be that weak. He never wanted to bother in these 8 years where Khushi was. He wanted to stay away from her as much as possible. Then why was all this affecting him today? He should not have reacted like this , at least not before the family..

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

Khushi had no intentions to come out of her room. Since the time she had returned from Raizada house she had locked herself in the bedroom. She was very angry on Arnav but at the same time she felt he was not wrong in what he asked her for. She wanted a perfect partner who is honest with her but was it right talking about honesty before a man whom she had cheated on the name of a bet? She tossed on the bed closing her eyes, trying to forget those hurtful words from Arnav. May be this was her punishment for cheating him. Whatever it was but she will not trouble him anymore from the next day. She will stick to her role in that house only. Anything beyond that , especially related to Arnav, she will ignore.

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

It was night 10:00 pm and Arnav still had no sleep in his eyes. He was standing at the Poolside watching the calm waters. His Jeejaji came there and placed his hand on Arnav's shoulder.

Arnav: Main theek hoon Jeejaji.. I am fine.
Shyam: Its good to lie sometimes but not on such crucial Saale Sahab. Sharing helps .

Arnav: I have nothing to share. So please leave me alone Jeejaji..
Shyam could understand how much disturbed Arnav was.
Shyam: Fine. I will leave but before that I have some free advise for you Saale Saahab. I hope you take it and understand what I am trying to feed you by this.

Arnav was quiet. He still did not concentrate on Shyam but kept gazing at the water.

Shyam: You outspoke to Khushi today. I know you realise that as well but Saale Sahab, only realising is not the end of such situations. Just talk to her. She might have wronged you in the past but she is sorry for that now. Forgiveness is  not that easy, but neither so difficult. Till when will you keep letting this grudge ruin your mind and heart? I know she was immatured enough to cheat your love, but today she knows her mistake and wants to earn forgiveness from you. She is no more that teenager who messed up with people's emotions Saale Sahab, she is a grown up lady who respects people around her. She must be forgived. Give  a thought on it.

Shaym patted Arnav's shoulder twice and left him alone to decide if he should accept his Jeejaji's advise or not.

**********

The Morning had brought a new light in the Raizada family which none of them were aware of. Anjali was still unhappy for the way Arnav behaved with Khushi the previous day. Shyam was unsure if his Saale Sahab will follow his advise or not. Aliya was curious to know why did Arnav react like that with Khushi? Everyone were drawing their own conclusions and trying to sort this mystery themselves. Khushi as usual entered the house, keeping her mind clear of the fact what happened here. The way she was insulted before the family by Arnav. She was on call with some of her Client whose kid she had just treated some months back. She was been invited for that b'day party tonight and Khushi was trying her best to avoid attending it as she was not in a good mood for such events.

Khushi (Talking on the phone while walking inside the house):Mrs Chopra, I will try my best to come. Give my b'day wishes to Chintu. Tell him, his gift is on way. He will like the gift, I am sure of that.

She was so lost in the coversation that she didnt even realise there was a toy in the middle of the passage. She stumbled and dropped her phone on the ground. The call got disconnected but luckily her phone didnt tamper. She bent to pick the phone but at the same time HE bent too. Arnav Singh Raizada and Khushi Gupta, both held the phone together. Their fingers brushed with each others as their eyes met. She heard the cutlery sound which was arranged for the breakfast downstairs. That broke their stance. He left her phone and both stood up. She turned around to leave.

Arnav: Iss tarah palat ke kyon jaa rahi ho? (Why are you turning away like this and leaving?)
Khushi:Because I dont wish to show you my face and spoil your mood.

"Whenever I see your face early morning, my days goes splendid", was what Arnav used to tell her when they were together. Arnav sighed remembering those days.

Arnav: I never had a problem with your face..

She gulped down but never turned to see him. She was good the way she was.

Arnav: Kal ke misbehaviour ke liye .. SORRY..!! ( I am SORRY for Misbehaving with you yesterday)

Khushi's eyes almost popped out her sockets. She so wanted to see the expressions on his face but she kept controlling her anxiety. When she still didnt turn around, he himself stood before her to face her. Thats when she looked at him again.

Arnav: Whatever you do, whatever you wish to see in your future partner, I should not be bothered about that. I had no rights to react that way.

Khushi kept staring at him bewildered.

Arnav: You are helping my Nephew and I respect you for that generiosity. I assure you what happened last evening will never happen again.

She was still quiet and shocked.

Arnav: Are my words making any sense?
Khushi (Coming back to reality): Yeah. Of course Arnav. Uhh.. Thanks ..

Arnav noded gently and left her way. He went back to his room while Khushi jumped in joy..

Khushi (Folding her palms and looking up): Thank you Devi Maiyaa.. You rock.!! I would not have asked anything better than this today. Thank you so much..

She jumped again and then scanned her surroundings once .She didnt wanted anyone to notice her doing such stupid jumps. She was so much excited that she wanted to share this news with someone.. And she did that. She dialed her father walking away from the corridor..

************
That night she could not ask for anything else than her father to come back home soon so that she can share everything that happened between her and Arnav today morning. She was talking to Shashi from past one hour on this same topic. Her excitement was visible in her gestures and smile.

Shashi: Khushi ab bus karo.. You have never talked so much about one person continuously to me.
Khushi : (Finally Stopping): I know Paapa. But you cannot measure my happiness today. He talked to me normally.. He just .. Ohh god..!! After yesterday, I never thought I can ever face him again. I was almost on the verge of stopping all communication with him , I even had given up the thought of getting him back to the old Arnav.. But he just made my day today.. Now I am regaining those hopes.. This was just the first Step dad. Aage aage dekhiye.. I will change him back to a man who loved life.. who smiled.. !!

She seemed to be lost in some thoughts.. Something was going wrong, Shashi could feel it but he just didnt wanted to judge anything so early.

*************
For the first time in these past few days, Arnav could get a sound sleep. May be he forgiving Khushi and coming back to talking terms with her was the reason behind it. He was in sleep and was remembering the flashes of that day 8 years back when Khushi was facing the same Sleelpess night issue due to the exams.

Flashback Starts

It was 01:00am , she pushed the door open, he jerked on the bed.

Arnav: What the! KG? What are you doing here? And .. WHy didnt you knock?
Khushi: (Getting inside): Knock? Kabhi kiya hai kya maine Arnav?  I dont need to knock to enter your room.
Arnav: Unless its night KG..
Khushi gigled.
Khushi: Why? What do you do alone at night in your room that I should knock before getting in?

Arnav sometimes couldnt believe how easily she cracked jokes with her which he couldnt digest himself.. He kept the book aside which he was reading.

Arnav: What happened?
She sat on the bed before him and held his hand.
Khushi: I am feeling feverish..! No.. Infact my breathing has become abnormal.. I want to sleep but then when I get on bed, my eyes are wide awake. I dont know what its called. What is wrong with me Arnav ?
Arnav: Uhh,.. Sleeping disorder.. May be..
Khushi: Ohh God.. Really?  But why its happening?
Arnav: Exams tension.. Thats all. Dont worry. I know you have studied well. You will pass Khushi.
Khushi: How sweet of you to believe me so much Arnav.. You know me so good. Know what? Whenever I am with you, I feel so eased up and comfortable. Wish you could have stayed with me 24*7.

She placed her head on his shoulder.

Arnav : Main humesha tumhaare saath hoon Khushi.. Chahe kuch bhi ho..
Khushi (closed her eyes): Promise..!!
Arnav: Promise..

She smiled and took a deep yawn. He kept reading his book then while she dozed off on his shoulder. Almost after half an hour Arnav realised by hearing her snores. He placed her head gently on the pillow and covered her with the duvet. He shut the lamps off. He cannot disturb her sleep at any cost. He moved to the couch and slept there, admiring her the whole night. This was the first time she slept in his room. It had to be celeberated. But only in his dreams.. !!

Flashback Ends

Arnav opened his eyes the next moment when the Flashback was over. He sat on the bed looking at his surroundings . Everything seemed calm and passive unlike those days when only her presence used to enlighten his day. But why was he even thinking of those moments again? He had forgiven Khushi for everything but that doesnt change the most important fact of their life. He was getting married to Aliya in a few weeks and Khushi was not at all bothered of that. She was so unaffected with all this which proved she never loved him then nor did she feel anything beyond a friend even now!!

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 12

Everyone gets a second chance in life to mend their mistakes. Khushi got it too from Arnav but now that he had forgiven her, she didnt know what was next. It was just last night when she told her father how she would change this business tycoon Arnav Singh Raizada back to the sweet and lovable Arnav he was before,  but looking  at his anger now, which he just vented on some business official of his, she lost that little hope. He spoke so rudely with this person, whoever he was and disconnected the call. She walked in his cabin knocking it once before he scolds her for being so unprofessional. Greeting him with a warm smile, she waited till he changed his mood, at least till she felt he was trying to be better.

Arnav: What are you doing here?
Khushi: Do you ask the same to everyone who come to meet you in your office without prior appointment?

Arnav: I am not in a good mood Khushi. So please stop wasting my time and tell me what made you come here?
Khushi (Sighed): I was just passing by so I thought I can come and meet you.
Arnav's frustration was clearly seen on his face and expressions.

Arnav: Passing by? You think this is some meuseum or something where you can drop in anytime you wish? This is my Office Miss Khushi Gupta and I work here. You cannot just come and see me when you want to.

He was quite rude enough in stating his point. Khushi felt absolutely wrong for being here. She gulped down her nervousness..

Khushi: Sorry.. I should have.. (she was short of words)..  Sorry. I will leave.

She turned around to open the Cabin door and leave but in her nervousness she could not even open the knob. She was still fiddling with it when suddenly Arnav placed his hand on the door stopping her from leaving. She didnt move an inch but neither did she meet his eyes.

Arnav: Dont go...

His husky tone and the protective glance which he gave her feeling apolgetic for the way he behaved, made her relax her tension.

Arnav: I didnt mean to say all that. I took out unnecessary frustration on you which actually belonged to someone else.
Khushi: Gosh!! You are quite unpredictable Arnav... Unlike BEFORE

She stressed that last word just to ensure what his next reactions are.

Arnav (Looking in her eyes): Its good to be unpredictable. At least people dont take advantage of you.. !!

He liked giving her back, didnt he? Her gaze lowered again.

Arnav: Get in.
Khushi: No. I am okay. I really should leave. You look quite busy.

He didnt care what excuses she made to leave this place. He picked his extension and ordered two coffee's. She was surprised once again.SHe had not even confirmed she will be waiting and he was ordering coffee for her?

Khushi: Arent you quite demanding these days? May be even dominating. !!
Arnav: You still watch me very keenly then.. Dont you?
She was stuck AGAIN.

Arnav (picking some file and flipping the pages): Sit..
Khushi: Uhh .. I actually wanted to THank you for forgiving me. I know it was not that easy for you so..
Arnav: Lets not discuss what happened Khushi. I am over it now.
Khushi (Smiled): Sure.

The coffee was kept on the table and the peon left. Khushi started making their coffee's. Arnav attended some calls meanwhile and then joined her.

Arnav: No Sugar.
Khushi: I havnt added it either.

That was still a surprise for Arnav that she remembered he was diabetic. He still recollected the day 8 years back when she had come to know he was diabetic. She was so much worried for him.

Flashback Starts

Arnav: What ? What is this?

He picked the paper in his hands which she snatched from him and started sticking it to the wall.

Khushi: Its your Diet plan Arnav. I have selected the best food items which are healthy for a Diabetic person. You will follow this plan regularly.
Arnav: No way KG.. I am fine Okay. Its not that I learnt I am a diabetic just yesterday. I am so since the time I was 5 years old. ANd this will be forever with me now. Such diet plans can never change it. Its waste of time.
Khushi: Chup.. Ek dum Chup. I am not asking you to follow it.. I am ordering you Arnav baby. And if you dont obey me, no more Sugar free Pancakes for you. I wont make it henceforth..
Arnav chuckled giving up..

Arnav: Uhh..!! Fine.. I will follow it.. anything for the pancakes.. You know how much I love them.. Because.. thats the only stuff you know to cook best. I cant risk of abandoning it forever..

Her eyes grew wide seeing Arnav laughing heartily. She picked the pillow from the couch and started hiting him.

Khushi: Arnav ke bacche.. how dare you say that? You think I dont know to cook.?
Arnav: (Running away): Think? KG.. I can prove you cannot cook baby..Demo dikhaau?

She was more agitated. She kept chasing him while he ran outside the room just to ensure she doesnt catch hold of him.

Flashback Ends

Arnav's cup was about to fall from his hand, he was that lost in the past flashbacks. She quickly stood up and held the cup. He came back to the present.

Khushi: Arnav.. Dhyaan se.. Cup gir jaata.. What were you thinking ? (Arnav.. Careful.. The cup would have fallen down. What are you thinking?)
Arnav (Nodding a No): Nothing worth!!

Even though Khushi really had no idea what he was thinking, she felt bad when he said he was thinking something which had no more worth in his life. Arnav seemed to be a very closed person from the beginning  but today he was much worse that before. He was hiding every peice of information which was necessaery for her to know because that was the only way she can make him what he was earlier.!!

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

2 Days later

Khushi hugged Aliya though she was never comfortable around her.

Aliya: I am glad that you made it here from your busy schedule Khushi.
Khushi: Please dont thank me Aliya. Art is my passion too..I love to Paint as well just like you do.
Aliya: Ohh wow. Really? I must come sometime to see your paintings then.
Khushi: With pleasure..

The girls shared a smile again and thats when Aliya was more than pleased to see the Raizada family getting inside at her Painting exhibition.. She welcomed them .. Khushi too stood there but searching for HIM.. But her query was quickly raised by Anjali to Aliya.

Anjali: Has Chotte not come yet ?
Aliya (Dropping her face): I dont think he is coming Di. I had dropped him a message few minutes back and still didnt get any reply.
Nani: THis man has really become careless. Its his fiancee's Painting exhibition and he is not around? Thats unfair.
Aliya : Its okay Nani. I know his work. Its fine. Come in.. I will show you my paintings..

She gestured Khushi to follow them as well but Khushi very cunningly gave an excuse and left to the other corner to make a quick call. The family went inside but Khushi kept thinking if she really has to do this.. She took some 1o minutes and finally decided to take this matter up. She dialed Arnav's number. She had no hopes he will answer it as Aliya had told her how Arnav had not even bothered to reply her message earlier. But to her surprise, Arnav answered her call within 3 rings.

Arnav: Hello.
Khushi: Hi. Uhh.. I know you must be busy Arnav.. But.. Umm..
Arnav: Come to the point. That can save my time..
She pressed her lips feeling nervous yet decided to give a shot.

Khushi: I am here at Aliya's painting exhibition.. Just came to know you arent around.. So.. I thought to check with you .. Its a very big day for her Arnav.. And.. I know you.. You were quite responsible .. So why spoiling that image? You should come..!
Arnav: Are you my Fiancee's lawyer? You dont need to speak on her behalf Khushi.
Khushi: You can call me her lawyer or your old friend, call me anything, but please take my advise. Its for your benefit.

Suddenly the call got disconnected but she could still hear his voice from behind her.

Arnav (Standing behind her): When you know me so much, how did you think I will skip my responsibility so easily?
She jerked hearing his voice and turned around.. Her eyes wide open in shock. Arnav was standing there in the exhibition hall..

Arnav: (Walking towards her): Tumhe kya laga? MAin yahan nahi aaunga? Aur iss liye tumne mujhe samjhaane ke liye phone kiya? But Miss Khushi Gupta, let me ask you one thing. Why did you think I will listen to you and come here? ( What did you think? I wont make it for this exhibition? And thats why you thought of calling me ? Convincing me?  But Miss Khushi Gupta, let me ask you one thing. Why did you think I will listen to you and come here?)

She was speechless and numb..This was such a irritating feeling which she felt these days around him, especially when he overruled her in every matter she thought she can win easily?

Arnav: Apne aap ko itna importance dena bund karo Khushi.. (Stop giving so much importance to yourself Khushi).. I know what my priorities are. Kahin tumhe aisa toh nahi lag raha ki main yeh shaadi kisi ke dabaav mein aakar kar raha hoon? ( Are you thinking I am getting married to Aliya because my family is forcing me to?

Their eyes met.. Was he hinting her he was not happy with this relationship or was he genuinely letting her know she was wrong in thinking so?

Arnav: Main khush hoon Khushi.. Aliya se.. Aur humaari hone waali Shaadi se bhi.. ( I am happy Khushi.. With Aliya.. With this marriage.. ) And I dont give any third person , permission to discuss my future, my role and responsibility towards this relationship. Thanks for your concern but its really not required.

Each and every word he told her was pricking her heart. No doubt he was right, but still she was not happy the way he showed her the right place in his life. She was not used to be ignored by Arnav so much. She loved his pampering, his concern which was the highlight of their relation earlier and now this sudden change was just very hurting. They heard Aliya screaming Arnav's name happily. Their stance broke. Arnav turned around to see Aliya rushing towards him. She looked overjoyed.

Aliya: Arnav? I .. I cant believe my eyes. You came? I thought you wont make it for this exhibition..
Arnav: Never under estimate me Aliya.. I am tired saying this to everyone..

He clearly taunted Khushi who sighed turning the other side..

Aliya: I loved your surprise..The best as ever.. Come.. I am so glad to show you my paintings..
Arnav (Looking at Khushi): Excuse us Khushi.. And please make yourself comfortable..
Khushi (In anger): I WILL..!!

She walked away from this couple cursing herself for thinking so much for him and Aliya. She was so much lost in these thoughts that she bumped with Vivaan who had just entered the place..

Khushi: So..rry. Sorry Vivaan..
Vivaan: Dont be sorry.. They say when girls say sorry after bumping with a handsome guy, means they are lying.
Khushi: Shut up Vivaan.. I am really not in a mood to take such unhealthy and flirty comments at the moment..
Vivaan: Kyon? Aliya ne paintings itne bekaar banaaye hai kya?

Khushi could not hold her laugh anymore. She hit his arm playfully. Whichever mood she may be, Vivaan made her laugh .. Arnav's eyes had caught this scene from far. He had been noticing Vivaan and Khushi's growing bond and he was not much convinced about it. But who was he to interfere?  It was Khushi's life and he was no one to obstruct it. They both had come a long way now.. Distances had grew much wider than they thought. Even after forgiving her and moving on from each other, they still could not build the same rapport, the same sweetness which once existed between the two. Something which was enough for him to cherish for lifetime was now not even a part of his future desire.

______________________________________________________________________________
Part 13

Khushi after a long search finally liked a painting which she decided to buy. Not that the other paintings were not good. But this one she selected was just matching her choice. She quickly called the volunteer asking him to mark the painting as sold, because she was buying it.
Volunteer: Sorry Ma'am but this painting is already sold.

Khushi: Sold? But there is no red dot here which can confirm that.

" That's because I have decided to keep it Khushi", came a response from Aliya who was just behind her.

Aliya: Actually this painting was for sale but you know Arnav, he liked it very much so I wish to gift him this..Its the first time he has appreciated my work so much. So.. Please don't mind. You might have to look for some other option dear.

Khushi was surprised to know Arnav showed interest in art and that too painting. 

Khushi: Uhh no problem Aliya.. You can keep it for him. I will fetch something else.

Aliya thanked her and then asked the volunteer to pack this painting Before anyone else likes it and wishes to buy. It was a wonderful time that Khushi spent amidst the art and artistic people. After finishing she met the Raizada's again at the lobby.

Anjali: So Khushi did you empty your pockets by buying Aliya's paintings?
Khushi: Yes Anjali. She is really a talented girl. I loved her sketches.
Anjali: Its nothing Khushi. You know she wishes to draw a sketch of Chotte one day but he has no much time for that. He cant sit at one place for so long. Feels like he is wasting time. Now you tell me is that fair. Your fiancee wishes to draw your sketch and you are denying..

Anjali looked at Arnav who faked a smile on his face and kept checking the messages on his phone. He was a busy man. Khushi smiled too but somewhere she remembered the day when she had mad this attempt of sketching their portrait together 8 years ago.

Flashback starts

Khushi: Arnav .. Don't move yaar. Bus few more minutes.. He is almost done.

Arnav was sitting quietly and in the same position from almost 45 minutes in the classroom, on the bench, beside his best friend Khushi who was sitting close to him and smiling for the portrait. She was always fond of clicking pictures and saving it in her album. But getting a sketch done was her first time. Arnav was her best buddy and he was a sweetheart, always caring her more than himself. He shared a special place in her heart. So one sketch with him is worth it.

Arnav: KG.. I have my class in next 10 minutes. And you know I dont bunk my classes.
Khushi: (Still not moving away): Uhh.. Stop acting like a Saint Arnav. Everyone bunks class at least once in their entire college history.. And who is more important to you? Me or your boring class?

She could not turn around to see his expressions but she knew he was smiling on her talks. He did not need to reply either. Both knew how much importance she had in his life and vice versa. Rohan, their college's famous sketch maker finally finished the sketch and gave them a thumbs up. Arnav's back was aching but Khushi seemed very excited to see the sketch. She took it in her hands and her face glowed up. Arnav meanwhile came there stretching his arms in air . He too was impressed with the way Rohan had drew their sketch..

Arnav: Looks so real. Thanks Rohan..
Rohan: My pleasure guys. Chalo. I will see you later .. Bye..

Rohan  left and Khushi got a call from her father.. She had avoided attending any phone calls from past one hour because she was posing for the sketch. Thus without any delay she just rushed away to answer it handing the portrait to Arnav. After almost 10 mins she came back and saw him still admiring the photo. He stroked his thumb on Khushi's cheeks in the sketch which had totally shocked her. What was that gesture supposed to me. Till then she had no idea he was falling for her. She considered him to be just her friend, her best friend, nothing apart from it. She cleared her throat to get his attention.

Khushi: Uhh.. Arnav?? What are you so much engrossed in? Do I look more beautiful in photo than real?
Arnav (chuckled): You look beautiful in everything.. Specially when you leave your hair..
His eyes stated a lot that day which Khushi was pretending of being unknown to. She just wanted to clear her doubts. Arnav was still lost in admiring her.
Khushi: Uhh.. Now aren't you getting late for your class? Its started.. Go.
Arnav: Ohh. Thanks KG. Bye.. Will meet you at the canteen.

He ran picking his books from the other bench. Khushi had her class too yet she was not in a position to attend it. She sat there holding the sketch in her hands and staring at it blankly.

Flashback Ends

Suddenly Aliya came there holding the same painting which Khushi had chosen.

Aliya: Arnav.. This is for you.. I mean we will mount this on the wall opposite to your bed. This is my best painting and after marriage I would love if you give it some place in your house.
Aliya  expecting Arnav to convince her that the demand she just raised is acknowledged.
Arnav: Sure.. Di will get it fixed for you later. Now if you are done, we should be leaving.

Aliya could not leave along with them because she had to finish her exhibition. The Raizada's bid bye to her and so did Khushi. When they came out, Khushi's car was punctured. That was really surprising.

Khushi: Ohh god. I should have agreed to Dad. He had asked me to give the car for servicing but I.. Uhh..( she cursed herself for landing in such situation)
Anjali: Khushi. Don't worry.. We will drop you home. Come.
Khushi: No Anjali its fine. I will ask the driver to get another car. I will wait.
Anjali: Sure?
Khushi: Yeah. I will be fine. Thanks. You all leave.. Please.. And Anshu will be alone at home.. You should be reaching early.

Anjali didn't argue. She agreed and they left in their car. Arnav was still busy talking to some of his old client who was here for this exhibition. She dialed at her home to check if the other car was available but to her dismay, her father had been out in the same car.

Khushi:( on call): Its okay Ramu kaka.. I will find a cab here. Don't inform paapa or else he will be worried. Will reach in sometime.
She cut the call and that same instant Arnav parked his car beside her. She was astonished seeing him getting down but standing at the car door.

Arnav:  Where's your car?
Khushi: Uhh.. I am taking a cab. Paapa is out in his car so.
Arnav: Main chod dunga..

She twitched her eyebrow high looking at his face.

Khushi: Are my ears overhearing or did you just say that??

Arnav put his sunglasses again.

Arnav: I wont repeat it twice. If you wish to come, get in fast..

She didn't think twice. Though before the exhibition had started, they had their share of argument over his responsibilities towards Aliya but never did Khushi imagine he will change his behaviour for her as well. She got inside the car and he drove out of that area. Aliya who was out to drop her best friend till the car saw Arnav giving Khushi lift. She didn't understand how come Arnav get this sudden change in himself? He couldn't stand Khushi at times, he didn't think twice before insulting her then why suddenly he had changed his attitude towards her? Was she thinking too much?? She sighed and left this matter here. Khushi and Arnav both  remained quiet for few seconds but then she started the conversation first.

Khushi: Actually even Vivaan had to go early otherwise he would have dropped me..
Arnav: ( paying attention only at the road): Hmm. You might enjoy that ride more than this.. He had got his bike..

Khushi didn't understand on what context he said this but she still replied back..

Khushi: But he drives rough .. Not like you.. He still has little childishness in him..

Was she reminding him their bike rides together 8 years back? He kept quiet. Some topics were better unopened again.

Khushi: Uhh.. So Arnav Singh Raizada doesn't ride bikes anymore? Or should I say he is conscious of his personality now??
Arnav:  Some sports look good till one age..
Khushi: I don't agree with you..
Arnav: As if I care..( he looked at her once and then again kept concentrating on the drive)

Everything had changed. The person who just said he hardly cares for what she thinks about him was the same man who only cared her above everyone and everything once.. Though they had mend their issues and were back on the track of being gentle towards each other , still the crack in their relationship will always remain. This was something which either might take time or will never alter.

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

Raizada house

The family were having dinner including Arnav who was very busy eating giving no ear to the talks that were going on between his family. All he could understand was that they were planning to keep some Puja at their place soon as Anshuman was recovering from his problem. The idea was good but he didn't had time to keep attending all this.

Anjali: Chotte. You will have to buy a saree and bangles for Aliya which she can wear on that Puja day. Take something in red. Its your favourite colour and also the would be bahu if wear red presented by her fiancée is auspicious.
Arnav kept the spoon down.
Arnav: Di.. Where do you read all this? Such crazy stuffs reach only your brain, doesn't it?

He was mocking her. Anjali's jaw dropped. She hit his arm gently.

Anjali: Badmaaash.. More than Anshu you make fun of me.. Just tell me if you will be buying the saree and bangles or not?
Arnav: Di aap leke aao.. I might be busy in work.

He tried getting up and leave but she caught his arm.

Anjali: Nope.. You are going to get it Chotte.. Shaadi tum karoge aur yeh saari cheezein hum kharide? Bilkul nahi chalega.
Shyam: Saale sahab just agree before she starts giving you another lecture.

Arnav smiled whereas all the others laughed heartily. Anjali pretended to be hurt and folded her arms looking down. Shyam pointed Arnav how suddenly they made her upset. Arnav held his Di's shoulders and made her meet his eyes.

Arnav: Red designer saree chalegi???

Seeing seriousness in his expressions and tone, Anjali heartily smiled and hugged Arnav for agreeing to her demand. What was he supposed to do then? This marriage was purely for his Di and the family. If by fulfilling their demands like this they get happiness then he can sacrifice anything.. Even his own self ..

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

Next day - Shopping Mall

Coincidences and Arnav Khushi had a connection from long. He had just entered the store to buy the saree for Aliya when he heard Khushi's voice from the other side. She was talking to a sales girl and asking her to show some good dresses to some kids who had accompanied her. He quickly guessed who these kids were. They were from the orphanage where she kept devoting her time in educating these innocent souls. The kids were notorious and she being alone had to be very alert in fulfilling their demands. Though there were two other wardens who had accompanied the kids, they all needed her attention only.
Khushi: Ssshhh..kids stop screaming. This is a public place. Be quiet and see what dresses you like. Okay? Don't trouble anyone..
She started fetching some good clothes for them. Arnav purposely paid no attention to her and got busy in selecting  a saree for Aliya. He was not very good in this job. His di had asked him to get a red saree.. But even red had so many shades. He was going mad seeing the heap of sarees before him..

Khushi: Need help?
She asked casually seeing him tossing his mind thinking which one to buy..
Arnav: No thanks.. I will manage..
Khushi: I am sure you can but a girl can assist you making a better choice..
Arnav: You are talking to a man who owns a Fashion house..

He had a point. She left him alone to decide what he wants and joined the kids again. After almost half an hour Arnav made his choice. He paid the bills and came out of the store. He heard the kids screaming outside with joy at the ice cream counter where Khushi was serving them ice creams of their favourite flavours. She was indeed doing a brilliant job in working for the kids benefit and giving them so much of love.. He didn't realise he had stopped there and was admiring her from quite a sometime. She was enjoying the ice cream with the kids who fed her their flavours in between. So much of love she had within her these days.. She always had love in her to share but may be never for him...

His wait there came to an end when he saw Vivaan coming at the spot with many balloons and passing it to the kids one by one. Arnav knew Vivaan had joined the NGO along with Khushi and he was supporting her in this social cause. But what was his motive behind this? Arnav saw how Khushi and Vivaan were playing with the balloon , fighting over it like kids on who will keep it as only one balloon was left after sharing with the kids. Very soon Khushi won the conversation or may be Vivaan purposely lost for her. Arnav could not wait much after seeing their healthy bond. May be he was jealous but this was a temporary feeling. He had killed every bit of that love he had for Khushi, in the past 8 years. Yes he was moved when she entered his life suddenly but that was all. From now on he promised to stick to his family, his fiancée and his future commitments rather than wasting time in thinking about his old link ups. He truly wished to feel like he had Moved on .. Just like she had..


______________________________________________________________________________


Part 14

When Khushi showed Anshuman's progress cards to Anjali, she was over excited and happy that her Son's treatment was improving, he was becoming like a normal kid  in terms of his thinking ability.

Anjali (hugging Khushi): Thanks Khushi. You have no idea how much happy I am today.
Khushi: Anjali, you dont have to thank me and I have been telling that to you from long. Whatever I am doing is my job, my desire in curing every child like Anshuman.
Anjali: I know Khushi but not everyone is so generous like you to work for such a noble cause without caring if you are been benefited equally or not. I wont thank you but you ought to get a gift from me today.
Khushi: Gift? No Anjali please

Anjali didnt hear a word. She dragged Khushi to her room. Khushi stopped inside when Anjali opened the closet and took out a gift box. She then gave it to Khushi.

Anjali: Its a Saree. I had bought it sometime back.
Khushi: No Anjali. Its really not required.
Anjali: You cannot deny it Khushi. I told you about the Puja we have tomorrow evening here at Raizada Mansion.? Wear it for us tomorrow. Please .
Khushi: You are pampering me too much Anjali.
Anjali: I am like your elder sister. I have full rights to do that.

Khushi hugged Anjali and then both came downstairs. Arnav was back from his work.

Anjali: Here he comes.. You know Khushi, these days my brother is so much into work that he has no time for us. ALways comes home late. Arnav: Di please dont start again. And today I came one hour early. Isnt that enough?
Anjali: Accha baba. I am happy that you are early. But dont forget, tomorrow you going to work from home. I cant afford you to go to office when there is a Puja at home. And Khushi, I know you are busy in the morning, but I will be very happy if you can assist me in arranging the Puja stuff.

Khushi could not deny. She would have rejected this plead of Anjali had it been for some other purpose.

Khushi: Sure Anjali. I will try my best to reach here early tomorrow.
Anjali: And dont forget to wear this same saree I gifted.
Khushi (Sighed):  I will remember (She smiled and once again gave a quick glance to Arnav and saying a bye to them she left the house)

Arnav: (to Anjali): Saree?
Anjali: Hmm. I bought one for her just like you bought for Aliya.. She is really sweet Chotte. She is doing so much for us.
Arnav: Did I ask you why you gave her a Saree?
Anjali:( holding his hand and walking): I still clarified. You know sometimes I think wish I had one more younger brother. I would have definitely asked Khushi's hand in marriage for him.

Would she really do this? He left her hand and changed the topic.

Arnav: Send some tea in my room. I will freshen up.

Anjali didnt notice how uncomfortable Arnav got when she shared such details about Khushi with him. She happily left in the kitchen and Arnav in his room.

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

Puja Day

As promised Arnav was working from home, on his laptop in his room , when he was been told Shashi Gupta had come to meet him downstairs. This was a total surprise for him. He went down and greeted Mr Gupta taking him to the drawing room where they can comfortably sit and talk.

Shashi: Sorry Arnav, had to disturb you. But the matter was really urgent.
Arnav: You dont have to be sorry Mr Gupta. Please tell me what the matter is?
Shashi: You know I have recently signed some work with a foreign client. My management is facing some difficulties in getting the Project finance approved from the bank. Actually I lost a deal to Chopra in the last quarter for which I had raised a small amount from the bank. Now they are little hesitant to show their trust above a level on my company. So me and my Board of directors have thought of a new way to handle this situation.We are looking for some Promoters to join my company, so that it gives them a strong reason to believe in our future ventures and sanction the loan amount.
Arnav: Hmm. I understand what it means Mr  Gupta. You want AR group to be one of those Promoters?
Shashi: Certainly Arnav. Only if you think its good for your name too. Take your time, we are in no hurry.

Shashi completed his talks and got up to leave. Arnav and he shook hands and both started walking towards the main door.

Shashi: Actually I am going to ask Vivaan too about this matter . I am sure he will help me . He is a very nice boy. Always keen enough in assisting people.
Arnav noded in favour and kept walking. Mr Shashi Gupta looked very impressed with Vivaan.

Shashi: I wont hide from you Arnav, but I am planning to make Khushi and Vivaan tie a knot. I will not get a good son in law than him. What do you say?

What the hell was wrong with Mr Gupta? Why was he talking about his personal decisions with him? And that too regarding his daughter Khushi?

Arnav (Stopped at the door): I am no one to speak anything on this topic Mr Gupta. You should ask this to Khushi and Vivaan. They might have the right answer to your question.
Shashi smiled weakly.

Shashi: Right. Guess I will have to talk to them soon and make them take a decision. Every father wants to see his daughter married and settled. Now Khushi is not small either and I am growing old. Anyways, thanks for your time Arnav. Bye.

Shashi Gupta left and Arnav was still standing at the same place, watching his car leave. Khushi and Vivaan? He clenched his jaw unwillingly. There were still some hidden feelings in him which made it difficult to accept such realities. But there was nothing wrong in what Shashi Gupta was thinking, He was a father and he had a right to make such decisions for his daughter.

___________

It was evening. Arnav was forced to wear a  Kurta Pyjama which his Di had specially bought for him on this occassion. He was never comfortable in such outfits but he still managed to wear it for his Di. He was buttoning the Kurta while getting down the stairs when Aliya and her parents entered the house. Arnav was surprised to see Aliya in a red saree which was not the one he had bought for her. He stopped his Di who was arranging the Puja thali to give to the Panditji.

Arnav: Di ek minute..
Anjali: Arre Waah Chotte. Aaj bade Handsome lag rahe ho.. (She pinched his cheeks but he moved her hand away)
Arnav: Di didnt you give Aliya the saree which I purchased?
Anjali: I did Chotte. Thats what she is wearing today.. See.. (She pointed towards Aliya who was talking to Nani)
Arnav : No Di. This is not the one I got.
Anjali was shocked.. This was not the one? She tried recollecting what might have happened?

Anjali: Ohh God. I made a mistake then. The boxes were packed and I thought this is the one you got for her. How can I make such a mistake?
Arnav: Di, its fine. It happens especially when you are so busy. You can give that saree later to Aliya..
Anjali (making a low face): No Chotte. I cannot give that Saree to Aliya because I already gave it to Khushi.

Arnav was speechless. She gave that Saree to KHUSHI? What kind of coincidence was this ? The Panditji called Anjali and hence she had to leave Arnav alone. A gust of wind blew around,  brushing his hair and he subconsciously looked at the main door. Khushi entered the house in the same red saree which he had purchased. He always had admired seeing her in Sarees but the admiration doubled when the colour was Red. He could not move his gaze off her. She was unknown to this until she too felt the same gust of wind on her face, forcing her to look in the direction of the Stairs where Arnav was standing. She could see his mouth slightly opened which probably he was unaware of. It had always happened whenever she wore a Saree. But why was she feeling so uneasy when she met his eyes. Why was she shy? Why did she feel her cheeks were turning red? Why did she feel her knees growing weak? Why?

Their eye lock broke when Aliya came in between them , towards Arnav, flaunting her saree and asking him how she was looking today. That was reality. She was Arnav's present, not Khushi. Khushi went to Anjali to assist her. Arnav had to give a compliment to Aliya , hiding the fact from her that she was not wearing the Saree which he purchased. He didnt wanted Aliya to be upset or even jealous, in the worst case knowing who was wearing his choice?
____________

The Puja was going to began in few minutes. Khushi was asked to get some more flowers from Arnav's poolside where Anjali had kept the flower basket. With little hesitation, Khushi went in his room. He was on call with some official but the moment she came in, he dropped the call.

Khushi: Uhh. Anjali asked me to get the flowers basket..
Arnav: Sure.

He hardly managed to speak looking in her eyes. He was hiding the feelings in his eyes for her today. It would look inappropriate if she reads his admiration seeing her in red saree.. Khushi picked the flowers basket and turned around but her sandals slipped and the basket fell down from her hands. She cursed herself for doing this and started picking the flowers and keeping them back in the basket.. Surprisingly Arnav kneeled down to help her. Khushi hiccuped . He passed a glass of water to her to ease down.

Arnav: Tumhare aur Vivaan ke beech mein kya scene chal raha hai? ( Whats the scene between you and Vivaan? )

He tried to be as specific as he could. Khushi almost choked the water in her throat but managed to gulp it down in few seconds.

Khushi: Aur . yeh .. tum kyon pooch rahe ho? (And.. may I know why are YOU asking me this?)

She had  a right to know. Why this concern in knowing about her and Vivaan's relationship when he himself is committed to Aliya now.

Arnav: Nothing personal. Infact poochta bhi nahi. But tumhare Dad aaj mujhse mile the. Kaafi taarif kar rahe the Vivaah ki. He wants Vivaan to be his Son-in-Law. So just asked what you think about him? ( Nothing Personal. Infact I would never have asked. But your dad had met me today and he was praising Vivaan much. He wants Vivaan to be his Son-in-Law. So just asked what you think about him? )

What the hell? Her dad told Arnav that he wants Vivaan to be his Son in law? What was wrong with her father? Why was he propoganding this to everyone?

Khushi: (Little uneasy): Uhh.. I havnt thought about it yet. (She lowered her eyes)
Arnav: Toh socho Khushi. Kab sochogi? Apne baal safed hone ke baad? Age is running out.. ( So think on it Khushi,. When will you think? After your hair turn white? Age is running out)
Khushi: Excuse me? I am hardly 23.
Arnav: Dont wait for 32 then.. Take a decision. Its just an advice. Take it or leave it..  And you are 23 from past 4 years. Stop hiding your age from me atleast.

Khushi's jaw dropped when he made her realise she cannot hide her age from him.

Khushi: Fine. I am 27. Happy? But I have maintained myself like a girl of 23 would. I feel 23 even now.

Arnav noded in affirmation. He didnt wanted to embarass her more .She picked the basket and hurridly left the room. He stood up putting his arms in Kurta pockets , having a smile on his face. She always considered herself young and active. No doubt she still looked like the same 19 year old Khushi at times, especially when he pulls her leg.

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 15

The Puja started. Khushi was sitting at the corner whereas Arnav was seated just adjacent to her , though some feet's away. Aliya was little uncomfortable in that saree. SHe was unable to carry it on her well. May be because it was too heavy.. She started tucking the saree pleats again and again ensuring no one watches her but Anjali saw it.

Anjali: Aliya?
Aliya: Di sorry but this saree is just not comfortable. I dont understand how can ASR get such kind of heavy saree for me? Doesn't he know I cant carry it well?
Anjali was embarrassed. It was all her fault that Aliya had to wear this saree which was not Arnav's choice but hers.

Anjali: Sorry Aliya but dont blame Chotte for this. Actually he didn't buy it, Nani did. The one which he bought for you mistakenly was gifted to Khushi. 

Aliya was shocked. She looked at Khushi once who had no idea of what was going on, she was that much engrossed in the Puja.

Aliya (in frustration): Di, how could you make such a mistake?
Anjali pouted feeling sorry.

Aliya: Anyways, now when this is not the one he bought for me, I think I better change it before it makes me more uncomfortable.
Anjali: But Aliya the Puja is going on?
Aliya: Sorry Di but I really have to change. Excuse me.

Aliya got up and left for the guest room to change this saree. Arnav turned around to check what was wrong and realised what must have happened. Anjali was very upset. Khushi too was surprised why Aliya went upstairs suddenly. The Puja continued for the next 15 minutes and finally came to an end. Everyone started taking blessings of the Priest. Coincidently Arnav and Khushi bent at the same time at the Priest's feet. The Priest considered them as a couple.

Priest (blessing them): Ayushmaan bhava.. May your love keep growing in the coming years of your blissful married life.

The entire family were awestruck with this blessing. They knew the Priest had misintercepted Arnav and Khushi's relationship. Khushi immediately moved a step back feeling nervous whereas Arnav was equally startled with all this. Aliya who had changed her saree and was getting down the stairs heard it too. She was burning now with jealousy..

Arnav: Khushi is not my would be wife Panditji.

It took him lot of courage to say this. There was a time when he intended to marry her but today he had buried all his feelings and left them unattended in a deep corner of his heart.

Panditji: Ohh !! Sorry beta.. I thought so.

He gave the Prasad to everyone. Aliya took it and then held Arnav's hand trying to show her right on him purposely before everyone.

Aliya: Arnav.. This isn't fair. You will have to take me out for shopping now and gift me a new saree.
Arnav: New? For?
Aliya: Ohh come on now.. As if you dont know.. (she turned to Khushi).. You know what Khushi? The saree which you are wearing belongs to me.. I mean Arnav had got this one for me. Our Saree boxes got interchanged unknowingly!!

Khushi was stunned. She looked at Arnav once and his expressions conveyed the same. Anjali didnt like the way Aliya said this. What was the need?

Khushi: Uhh!! I am sorry Aliya.. I really didnt know it..
Aliya: That's fine.
Khushi: Why Arnav then? I will gift you a new one.
Aliya: Ohh No Khushi. Thanks. But I want to buy his choice only. Planning to make a collection in my wardrobe. I want everything of my would be husband's choice.

Arnav was getting irritated with the way she was trying to show Khushi her right on him..Khushi was feeling little awkward too.

Khushi: Anyways, I should be leaving now. Thanks for inviting me Anjali.
Anjali: Our pleasure Khushi and thanks for coming early and helping us. Come.. I will give some Prasad to your father as well..

Anjali took Khushi along towards the kitchen.. Arnav moved Aliya's arm off him.

Arnav: She is our guest Aliya.. You shouldn't have let her know who bought that saree..
Aliya: You know how much possessive I get when the matter comes to you Arnav. How could I be calm seeing her in something which belonged to me?
Arnav: Possessiveness is on one side and your behaviour on the other. I cant appreciate what you did Aliya..

Aliya didn't wished to spoil his mood. She held her ears for a sorry..

Aliya: Okay baby.. Sorry.. Please forgive your would be wife.. !!

Arnav was still in an angry mood when suddenly he saw Khushi's saree pallu very close to a small lighted diya. The flame could burn her saree in no instant, she was that close. He literally ignored Aliya and rushed towards Khushi screaming her name loudly .The whole family's attention drew on them. He pulled Khushi away from the flame and bursted all his anger on her.

Arnav: Cant you see around? You could have burned yourself Dammit? Why are you always so careless? Dhyan kahan hota hai tumhaara KG?

Khushi was too panicked of what just happened. She had clutched his arm tight in fear. She was that afraid. The family rushed towards them. Everyone were bothered for her if she was okay? Arnav had his eyes fixed on her face. KG? He called her KG? Damm.. !!! Anjali who was equally worried came there too. Khushi realised she was holding Arnav before everyone. She immediately withdrew her hands and stepped back. Arnav's eyes scanned her movements while she detached from him and then walked away. She kept watching him as he climbed the stairs. He didn't even look at Aliya, he was that dazzled by his own actions. The moment he was off her eyes, Khushi then concentrated on the family who were asking her if she was fine.

Anjali: Khushi you okay naa?
Khushi: Yes Anjali.. I am fine. I didn't get hurt. I .. I will leave .
Anjali: I will ask my driver to drop you home.. Come..

Anjali escorted Khushi to the door. Aliya was holding her anger. What was wrong with Arnav?? He ignored her throughout the day and so much concern for Khushi? Why? What was between them which she couldn't see?

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

Same Night

Anjali was taking off her earrings sitting before the mirror but she was in a deep thought. Shyam could guess she was not okay. He came there and assisted her in keeping the jewellery in the box.

Shyam: Rani Saheba.. The puja is over. Don't tell me you are thinking of keeping another Puja now. Aisa much plan hai toh please inform me prior. I will postpone my meets.
Anjali : Shyam.. Did you notice a change in Chotte? I mean his behaviour towards Khushi these days??
Shyam was alert now..

Shyam: Behaviour? No Rani Saheba.. Why? What have you noticed?

He tried his best to understand what Anjali was thinking about them.

Anjali: Earlier he was always against her, I mean he didn't even like her coming I this house for Anshu. He was so cold towards her, never spoke in a proper tone. But then today he has changed totally for her. He argued with Aliya for behaving badly with Khushi, he supports her, and then that Diya incident? The way he rushed towards her, saved her, shouted at her to take care of herself and then KG?? He used a Short form of her name. Why?? I mean isn't it strange??

Shyam had expected his wife to notice all this and it did happen.

Shyam: Ohh Rani Saheba.. You think so much.. Saale Saahab is a normal human being. He has seen how much improvement Khushi has got in Anshu. May be that's why he is behaving genuine with her.
Anjali: Genuine??? It's more than that Shyam.. May be you cannot notice it yet. But I am doing that. I know my brother. He never showed so much concern and worry for anyone like he did for Khushi in the evening..
Shyam: Okay.. Do one thing.. Tomorrow ask Saale Sahab about it. He is the only one who can answer your queries. Happy??

Anjali smiled at her husbands suggestions.. May be he was right. She will ask Chotte about this matter the next day.

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

Gupta House

Khushi kept turning the bed lamp on and off every second, staring constantly at one place, lying on the bed. She was disturbed  today with Arnav's behaviour. After long time she felt the same concern in his eyes which he always had for her 8 years back. Was destiny playing its card ? Why did she meet him again after their bitter seperation ? Why did she get an assignment to treat Anshuman, who was his nephew? Why did the coinicidence happened and her and Aliya's sarees got interchanged? Why did the Panditji gave such a blessing to them thinking they are a couple? And lastly that unwanted accident which Arnav saved her from today. Was she really careless like he said? May be yes.. Because if she wasnt, then she would never have let Arnav go out of her life 8 years back. If she would have been more matured and thoughtful then, she might have taken some time in deciding about his proposal of love.

Suddenly she heard her father's voice. She jerked and got up.

Shashi: Khushi? You didnt sleep yet? Its 01:00 am beta.
Khushi: Uhh.. I wasnt getting sleep Dad.
Shashi: I could see that. You didnt even lock your door today. Whats wrong? Anything bothering you?
Khushi sat on the bed without speaking more. Shashi was right. She needed help. He took seat beside her and caressed her hair.

Shashi: You can tell me. I wont tell anyone.

Khushi: You dont stick to your words Dad. Why did you tell Arnav that you think Vivaan is a good match for me ?
Shashi was getting the point now.

Shashi: Because Vivaan is a good match for you Khushi. Isnt he? He is handsome, humerous, responsible, everything that you would like to see in your future husband.
Khushi sighed in disappointment..

Khushi: Dad I told you I need some time to think about him. Its too early for me to decide and get married like that . Precise I dont love him and neither he does.
Shashi: Hmm. So you want to fall in love first and then get married? Nice thought.
Khushi ( Giving a frustrated look to her father): Dad?? I didnt mean that. I mean .. I ..I dont think Vivaan is that responsive to my behaviour, my attitude. He doesnt even know what I like , what suits me, what can cause me harm, or what makes me smile. He doesnt know anything.
Shashi: Like Arnav knows.. Thats what you mean?

Khushi was blank..

Shashi: Look Khushi.. Whatever you are looking in your future man, you cannot compare it with anyone else. Two men can never be same. But yes all these qualities can develop with time. And Precisely, whatever Arnav had for you, was past. Aliya is his present and thus I feel Vivaan can be your future.
Khushi: (Sighed giving up): I think now I am getting sleep dad. We shall talk some other time about this marriage topic. Good night

She kissed her father's cheeks wishing him a good night. Shashi could see how she ignored this kind of conversation with him. But what was the need? Was she getting involved unknowingly with Arnav again?

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

Few Days Later

It was again a coincidence that Khushi and her father had come to the same restaurant for Dinner where the Raizada's had . Raizada's welcomed the father daughter and asked them to join them. Shashi could not escape and he agreed to their wish. Aliya seemed little disturbed by Khushi's presence but she still managed to fake a smile on her face. Arnav and Khushi were sitting opposite to each other at the corner of the table , eating quietly. Suddenly from nowhere, Nandakishore (NK) saw his old buddies Arnav and Khushi and could not help resisting himself from meeting them. He came to their table.

NK: Hello guys.. Pehchaana? NK..!!

Arnav was stunned to see NK after such a long time. He had cut off all his old buddies from the list after leaving the college. He was happy. He stood up and gave NK and Hug.. Khushi was overwhelmed too seeing NK.. Afterall they shared a good friendship in all those 5 years of her graduation. Raizada's were little confused how come both Arnav and Khushi shared a common friend? Aliya was just watching and so where the others. .

NK: Ohh my God. Wait a minute.. You both together at one place with your families? Let me guess? You guys are marrying? Dammm!! I knew it .. Arnav loved you so much Khushi.. And I am glad you both finally sorted your issues and are becoming one.. You cannot believe how much upset I was after you left Arnav. I regret for that bet with Khushi. But you know it was just for fun but everything became very serious in the process. But now I am relieved that you are no more holding that grudge against each other. LOVE WINS no matter how late .. I am so happy guys..

He took both Khushi and Arnav in his embrace to share his happiness. The family got the biggest shock today.. So Khushi was the girl whom Arnav loved in his college days?Arnav and Khushi were so much nervous with NK's sudden confession that none of them knew how and what should be done next?

______________________________________________________________________________

Part 16

NK: Ohh my God. Wait a minute.. You both together at one place with your families? Let me guess? You guys are marrying? Dammm!! I knew it .. Arnav loved you so much Khushi.. And I am glad you both finally sorted your issues and are becoming one.. You cannot believe how much upset I was after you left Arnav. I regret for that bet with Khushi. But you know it was just for fun but everything became very serious in the process. But now I am relieved that you are no more holding that grudge against each other. LOVE WINS no matter how late .. I am so happy guys..

He took both Khushi and Arnav in his embrace to share his happiness. The family got the biggest shock today.. So Khushi was the girl whom Arnav loved in his college days?Arnav and Khushi were so much nervous with NK's sudden confession that none of them knew how and what should be done next? Aliya had a major heartbreak knowing this so called relationship between her fiancee Arnav and Khushi. Anjali was speechless and Shashi was just observing faces of the Raizada family. He knew they wont be happy after all this.

Arnav (breaking the hug): NK.. Its not what you thinking okay? Let me explain..
NK: (Smiling): Ohh Nannav.. Dont be shy now.. I know everything okay.. Let me handle this now..
Khushi: NK.. Stop it.. !! Please dont utter a word now. (She commanded nervously)

Aliya stood up. She took her purse and without uttering a single word, she started walking towards the exit. Arnav knew she would react the same way..

Arnav: Aliya.. Stop.. Dont go away like this..!!

She didnt listen. She just kept walking. Arnav looked at Khushi once who was almost apolozising by her eyes for this entire scene but she was not at fault. In fact no one was wrong here. It was just  a bad coincidence. He followed Aliya hurridly. The Raizada family started dispersing from the scene slowly. None of them were in a  mood to keep questioning more to Khushi at the moment. Anjali was in tears. She was the only one who wanted answers  but Shyam didnt let her stay there.

Shyam (Whispering to Anjali): Rani Saheba.. We should focus on Aliya and Saale Sahab.. Please.. Lets get back home..

Anjali felt dejected. She gave one final glance to Khushi who was nervously watching her and then left the place.

Khushi sat on the chair depressed while her father was still trying to get a  grip on this situation.


Khushi: NK?? How could you ? And that too before the family? Do you even know what will happen after this?
NK (Little confused ): You are asking me about the future? I am still confused about the present Khushi. What is Nannav doing with that Aliya when he loves you ?

Khushi angrily backfired.. NK stepped back in fear.

Khushi: He doesnt love me okay? He is engaged to Aliya and is marrying her soon.
NK: You sure? You mean there is nothing between you and him now?
Khushi: NO NK.!! (She purposely stressed the word "NO")

NK: Ohh Man!! WHat a fool I am. I ruined all of this.. But how was I supposed to understand? When I saw you together, I thought you both are one again, as a couple. Damm!! Wish it was Truee.. !! I mean.. I thought it to be true.

Khushi gave NK a sarcastic and then a  serious look which made him quiet.. Shashi sighed and held Khushi's hand.

Shashi: Its okay Khushi. Dont blame him for anything. He wasnt even aware . Lets think of sorting this matter now rather than discussing who did what? Okay?

Khushi: Take me home Paapa.. !!
NK: Hey Khushi... Sorry dear.. I really really didnt know this will happen..
Khushi (Sighed ): I know NK.. You didnt do it on purpose.. Its okay now. Some day me and Arnav had to handle this. We will manage.. I will see you soon...
NK: Yea.. If you need anything from me, please tell me. I am always there.. Here's my card.. Take care.. Bye..

Shashi took Khushi along back home..

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

Aliya's home

Arnav: I told you that girl is back in my life, didnt I?
Aliya (angrily): But I didnt know she was so Close to you.. She was just in the same house where you were and you guys were seeing each other every damm day.. God..!! I feel cheated Arnav.. I had the right to know she was none other than KHUSHI GUPTA..!!
Arnav was getting irritated now.

Arnav: She means nothing to me now!! How many times do I have to prove that Aliya?
Aliya: Ohh you proved that? When? I didnt notice.. You know what all I noticed all these days Arnav? It was your hatred towards her in the beginning and then suddenly one fine day that hatred turning out to be a soft corner again.. You never actually hated her.You pretended.. You wanted to prove yourself that she doesnt exist for you but the truth is, you cant forget her anytime.. She was always there between us..Always..!!

Arnav: Are you done? (he asked in frustration)..

Aliya became quiet but she really felt better taking out her frustration over him..

Arnav: I am not going to explain myself beyond this. Take your time to decide how you want to take this forward.. And if its still a YES for OUR existing relationship, then let me know..

He was being very rude..

Aliya: Dont you think I owe a bit of emotional handling from you?
Arnav: Aliya.. You very well know I have no much patience to pamper my girl. I would be grateful if she understands this herself and accept me as I am.

He turned around to leave..

Aliya: You were not the same with Khushi 8 years back.. Were you?
Arnav stopped walking but he didnt  turn around..
Aliya: With her you were always the weakest.. You did everything to keep her happy, to feel her loved, even though she never cared for it.. Then why cant you show some of those feelings to your would be wife now?
Arnav fisted his fingers .. He didnt wanted to remember those days again.. He turned around and met Aliya's eyes..

Arnav: My heart is dead Aliya.. The very moment she broke it, it died. And along with it all these feelings died too.. I made it very clear to you in the beginning, I might never be able to love you  the same way..
Aliya: (with moist eyes):. USe the right word Arnav.. Not "Might".. You "Never want" to love any other girl the way you loved her..

Arnav was speechless.. He had nothing further to say nor cut her statement.. He had no more courage to prove her wrong because she wasnt.. He knew this was true.. He can never love any girl the way he loved Khushi.!! He walked off without clearing this phrase..!!

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

Raizada House

Anjali and Shyam had a  similar arguement over this incident.. And Anjali was very hurt to know Shyam already knew who Khushi was..

Anjali: You too hide it  from me Shyam? How could you do that? All these years you knew who that girl was who cheated my Chotte. You still hide it from your wife? Dont you know how much I care for my brother?
Shyam: Rani Saheba.. Arnav would never let me know about her. It was a coincidence that few years back I saw him staring at a girl's photo on his laptop. When I asked him, he denied answering but later he felt like sharing it with me. I had just seen her picture thats all. You know your brother. He doesnt let his feelings out that easily..
Anjali: Then why didnt you tell me about this when you first met Khushi in this house?
Shyam: What would I tell you? I too cared for my Son.. I wanted him to be treated just like you do. Khushi was the only ray of hope Rani Saheba.. And believe me I was going to tell you this after Anshu was fully treated..

Anjali: Disgusting Shyam.. I never expected you to hide such important things from me..

She started walking outside the room but Shyam blocked her way.. He held her arms and looked in her eyes..

Shyam: I am sorry..  I realise how crucial this matter was.. I should have told you before..
Anjali: Its very easy for every man to do a mistake and get ask for forgiveness .. You might even be forgived Shyam but this will always remain  a fact that you too can hide some things from me. I can forgive you.. but not forget that ..!!

She shove his arms and walked out..

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

Next Morning

The Raizada's were quietly eating their Breakfast. Many of them were still in the same mood like yesterday. Anjali was not talking to her husband though she didnt give up her other responsibilities towards him. Nani was eating slowly and so were others.. Arnav came down , full ready to leave for work. He ensured to be as normal as he could. He didnt wanted any more scene to be created at home today. He sat on his chair and waited for his Di to serve but she didnt.. He sighed in disappointment and started serving himself. Shyam felt bad for him. But he knew his wife's anger. It wont last long.. Not for her Chotte at least..

After some minutes of quiet breakfast, Nani suddenly started speaking to Arnav her point of view which surprised everyone..

Nani: Chotte, I feel you and Aliya should get married soon. I will talk to the Panditji and ask him to find a good mahurat this month..

Anjali was startled too but Arnav was in a  hurry to finish the breakfast and leave.. He was quiet..

Anjali: Nani.. Par?
Nani: Ek minute Anjali.. I am talking to Chotte and I need his reply .. Only after that others can ask me about this sudden decision of mine. So Arnav bitwa.. What do you say?
Arnav finished his breakfast and wiped his lips..

Arnav: Leave it on me and Aliya to decide this Nani.. We will let you know when we are okay..
Nani: No Chotte. This time I am not going to leave it on you both.. I have seen and heard enough.. Its high time we stop this confusion here.  I will talk to Aliya's parents today and get the best date available for the wedding..
Arnav (getting up): Fine.. If thats the only way this family can forgive me for hiding about Khushi, then I am ready for this.

He picked his suit and laptop bag and rushed out for his car.. Nani took a sigh of relief but Anjali and Shyam were not happy with Arnav's words nor Nani's decision.. The marriage talks and pre-poning can make this entire scene more complicated..

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

AR Office


Arnav  was already in a bad mood while driving the car because of Nani but the moment he got down in his office campus, his anger calmed down a  bit seeing Khushi standing right ahead at her car, waiting for him.. What was she doing here early morning ? He locked his car and took steps towards her. There was a lot of hesitation and despair on her face which she tried hiding by a smile.

Arnav: Tum theek ho? (You alright?)

He didnt know why he asked her this.? May be he really wanted her to be alright.. She felt a tick in her heart because this was the least expected from him.. It was because of her that he had to face so much humiliation before his family the last night and now he is still asking her if she was okay? What should she name this concern of his?

Khushi(nodding a yes): Haan..I am sorry for coming here like this without your permission.. But.. I came here to give you this.

She removed a business card from her purse and passed it to him. He took it..

Arnav: Whats this?
Khushi: Uhh.. She is Dr Batra.. A child psychologist.. She is my Senior and she is the best for Anshu..

She almost stammered while uttering the last sentence.. By now he was clear what her intentions were. She was backing out from treating Anshu further because of what happened yesterday. But he will not allow her do so.. He handed the card back to her..

Arnav: We dont need two people handle him.. You are enough..
Khushi: You are not understanding Arnav.. I am not going to treat him anymore.  SO I am recommending this Dr..
Arnav: Why? What happened suddenly that you dont wish to treat my Nephew?
Khushi: You know what happened!
Arnav: I dont care.!! All I know is you are not the same Khushi Gupta who backed out at the end moment... You are quite close in getting Anshu treated Khushi.. Dont lose our hopes now.. And leave the family matters to me. I will handle them..

Khushi was awstruck.. What kind of man he was ? He was saving her still? What should she name this feeling he still had for her?

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 17

Khushi: You are not understanding Arnav.. I am not going to treat him anymore.  SO I am recommending this Dr..
Arnav: Why? What happened suddenly that you dont wish to treat my Nephew?
Khushi: You know what happened!
Arnav: I dont care.!! All I know is you are not the same Khushi Gupta who backed out at the end moment... You are quite close in getting Anshu treated Khushi.. Dont lose our hopes now.. And leave the family matters to me. I will handle them..

Khushi was awstruck.. What kind of man he was ? He was saving her still? What should she name this feeling he still had for her?

Khushi: (Sighed): Your family must be very angry on me for what I did. I dont think they will accept me continue to treat Anshu.
Arnav: I said. Leave it to me Khushi. We cannot change the past but the future is still in our hands. They will accept it soon.

Khushi knew he meant every word he said. He will really handle everything for her. He was always that caring.

Khushi: Umm.. How is Aliya? She might have fought with you for hiding about us.
Arnav: She is okay. (he checked the time on his phone).. I have a meeting now.
Khushi: Ohh Sorry.. You leave. I will see you later..
Arnav ( raising his eyebrow): For?
Khushi: (out of words): For.. Nothing.. Just like that.. !! Wont you be there when I come today evening for Anshu?
Arnav: ( passed a  weak smile): Dont worry Khushi. No one will say anything to you. Just go and finish your day with Anshu.
Khushi: Thanks. Thanks for everything Arnav..
Arnav: Hmm.

He gave her one last glance and then stepped ahead to enter his office. Khushi kept admiring him all the while. He was a man of dignity. Not just the one who saves his but also others. !!

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

Arnav was just back home from work and he was expecting Khushi to be here anytime. He had felt the reactions of his family members the same. They seemed to be stressed. He saw his Jeejaji talking over the phone. He came there and waited for Shyam's call to finish. Shyam winded up his conversation and then disconnected the call.

Shyam: Good evening Saale Saha, you are early today.
Arnav: How is Di?
Shyam: What happened to her? She is alright.
Arnav: No. I didnt mean about her health Jeejaji but her mood. Is she still upset ?
Shyam (sighed): She didnt talk to me properly today after knowing I was aware of you and Khushi. So that proves she is not going to accept it so easily. May be you should talk to her once and check. She might feel better.
Arnav: Hmm. Where is she?
Shyam: In our room. Feeding Anshu.

Arnav didnt wait for long. He rushed to his Di's room.

Anjali: Anshu one last morsel beta. Please .come here.

She stopped Anshu from running away but he was so not interested. Arnav walked in. He stood right before her but she purposely didnt notice him. She kept on running behind Anshu who was now off the room.

Anjali (in frustration): Anshu is getting out of my hands now. Everyone in this house does what they feel is right. I am like no one to them. Its my fault I keep running behind them, think so much about them ..!!
She was purposely saying all this and somewhere this taunt was even for Arnav. She was going to leave the room too but Arnav caught her arms and stopped her.

Anjali: Leave me Chotte. I have work.

He didnt obey her. He made her sit on the couch and then kneeled down holding her hands in his.

Arnav: Di I am sorry.. I know you are upset with me. I should have told you before. I even tried Di but didnt wish my past to come in between Anshu's future.
Anjali: Dont give an excuse Chotte. You never wanted to tell us. You think I would have treated Khushi badly if I had known what she did with you before? Is this what you know about me?
Arnav: Di I didnt mean that way. I was not prepared for anything. Khushi's comeback in our lives was a total surprise that I myself could not accept her in the beginning. But as time passed I realised its not right to poke her for something she did years back.

Anjali was silent.

Arnav: She had met me today. She wanted to pass on her responsibility to some other senior Dr she knew but I denied. It was you who made me believe Khushi can treat Anshu Di. So I have convinced her again that this revealtion will not affect anything between her and Anshu. I hope you will agree to my decision. I know you will never question her anything but Di please dont stay away from us like this. Please.. !!

He leaned his head and placed it on her lap. Anjali's heart melted. She gave up her anger because she can never stay so much dettached from Arnav anytime. He was her soul.. She caressed his head softly which was an indication she had forgiven him.

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

Anjali managed to convince the family not to raise any questions to Khushi about the past. They should forget it all and try to accept what their present it. For them she was just Anshu's Dr now who was treating him for their own good. So when Khushi came to Raizada Mansion she got the same warm welcome from Anjali though one thing noticable was that Anjali didnt speak much unlike before .She was very much to the point. Khushi realised they will need time to accept things and hence didnt take things to her heart even though she felt that bonding between her and this family missing.

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

Almost a week passed and Khushi was just noticing how the family was trying to get Arnav and Aliya's marriage done within a few days. She had always heard them talk to Aliya's family on phone about what preparations should be done and who would be on the invitation list. Everything was getting decided. On the other hand she had not seen Arnav from past one week. Probably he came late home these days. He was a  busy man afterall. But shouldnt he be home and assist his family too? They were preparing for his marriage. He should be concerned too.

Khushi finished her task with Anshu and gave him a soft kiss on cheeks.

Khushi: Anshu.. Where's my kiss?
Anshu happily kissed her cheeks in return and then rushed to his mother who just came in the room. Khushi stood up passing some paper to Anjali.

Khushi: This is his latest progress report. A huge difference from the last one. This therapy will be completed in one more week Anjali and your son will be just like every normal kid of his age.
Anjali: One week? (she asked smiling).. Thanks Khushi. You have really taken a lot of efforts to make this happen. We  can never forget that.
Khushi: Dont thank me for anything. It sounds quite formal.
Anjali: Devi Maiyaa is probably showering her blessings all at a time over us. In one week my Son will be okay and entering a new phase of his life just like Chotte..
Khushi: ( little tensed): I.. I didnt get you Anjali.
Anjali: Chotte and Aliya's marriage date is fixed for next week. We will start the premarriage rituals in a day or two.

Khushi could feel her heart thumping loud as if she wasnt prepared for this news.

Khushi: Ohh.. Uhh.. Good. Nice. I mean .. Congrats..
Anjali was noticing her reactions.
Khushi: I should be leaving. ..
Anjali: Going out somewhere?
Khushi: Yea. Going out with a friend.

Khushi took her purse and headed towards the door but Anjali stopped her.

Anjali: Can I have few minutes of yours Khushi?

Khushi was not in a mood to talk anything and she herself didnt know what affected her so much? Was Arnav's marriage news freaking her out?

Anjali: I wont take much of your time by revolving the topic. Let me come to the point Khushi. Are you happy?
Khushi was confused.
Khushi: Happy?
Anjali: For Arnav and Aliya's marriage..
Khushi was speechless. She didnt understand why was Anjali suddenly asking her all this?

Anjali: Whatever happened between you and Arnav years back, I am not going to talk much about that. I know everyone has a right to decide who they love. Its something which you need to feel inside before accepting it before the other person. You didnt feel what Arnav did that time and hence you both parted. You were an ambitious girl and you never thought of having any relationship at that point. You were immatured to play with Arnav's heart for winning a bet. That was the only wrong you did.I dont know if you realise the consequences of that one mistake of yours or not. Because it might not have harmed you in any way. But Arnav.. It changed his life Khushi. He was so hurt that he took a different route to forget all his sorrow. He studied hard, worked hard and finally reached this place and designation what he has today. He never looked back in life and he never will either. We had to convince him a lot to get married and finally he accepted to get engaged to Aliya. I know. He doesnt love her. Its just a  favour he is doing on us by marrying and getting a bahu for this house. But such marriages dont last long.. They can break anytime which I am not prepared to let happen.

Khushi's eyes became moist all of a sudden. She was not used to handle so much of emotional talks.

Khushi: Why are you telling me all this? You should speak to them directly.
Anjali: I cant.. !! Arnav might not take it seriously because he might think its another advice from a person who has always cared for him. (She held khushi's hands in hers).. I want you to talk to him Khushi regarding his seriousness in this marriage.

Khushi withdrew her hands from Anjali's in shock

Khushi: Me? No.. I .. I cant
Anjali: Khushi please.. You are the only who was termed as his best friend those days. He might understand your words. I know he will.
Khushi: We used to be best friends, but now things have changed. We just talk Anjali. That doesnt mean he will obey everything I ask him to do .And what do you want me to tell him? That Stop living in your past and accept the future? Thats what you want me to tell him? (She asked in frustrtation)
Anjali: No.. I dont want you to tell him this..

Khushi was just trying to get a grip of what Anjali wanted.

Anjali: I want you to ask him.. If he .. If he still loves you..

Khushi was terrified by that sentence.. She got up..

Khushi: What? Are you mad? Why will I ask him that? And.. No.. Its not right .. I ..
Anjali ( trying to make her understand):  I know its not right but if you ask him this, he might be able to get a clear picture in his mind Khushi. At least he will understand if he doesnt love you anymore then why was he so indifferent to his relationship with Aliya?
Khushi: You have no idea what you asking me to do Anjali. I am sorry but I cannot do this..

She rushed outside the room.. Anjali could understand Khushi's helplessness but she really wanted to get her Brother's heart and mind clearer before he sits in that mandap and ties the marriage knot with Aliya. Was she wrong in wanting good life of her brother?

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

Gupta House

Shashi noticed  a difference in khushi's behaviour since the time she was back from Raizada house . She seemed to be in some deep thoughts. She was breaking the roti into pieces but didnt eat them at all. Shashi clicked his fingers to get her attention.

Shashi: Khushi? What is wrong with you ?Why arent you eating?
Khushi: (coming out of her thoughts): Sorry Paapa.  I am just .. not hungry.

She wiped her lips with the cloth and hurridly ran towards her room. She needed to speak to someone about this but not her father. Someone who can understand her state of mind. She dialed NK and asked him to come right away at her place.

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

Night

NK : Cool.. She is right. You need to ask him what Anjali Di said.
Khushi: NK? Are you out of your mind too? I cannot ask that to him.
NK: But why? What are you afraid of Khushi?
Khushi was silent

NK: Okay lets take this the other way. You tell me one thing Khushi. DO you still DONT love him?
Khushi got up from the bed frustrated.

Khushi: What is this NK? I have asked you to sort my problem not complicate it more.
NK: I am doing the same. You both are my friends and I should know what is going on in your minds. First answer this question yourself  and then think about asking it to Arnav. Will you be able to see Nannav getting married to someone else? Wont you feel even a slightest prick in your heart seeing the same man who once was madly in love and possessive about you , now applying the Sindoor to some other girl? DO you still believe somewhere in your heart that no man could ever love you so honestly and truly like Arnav did?Come on Khushi answer me.

Khushi had landed herself in the most terrible situation from which she cannot escape anymore. She need to get these answers for herself and only after that she will be capable of questioning Arnav.

______________________________________________________________________________




Part 18

NK: I am doing the same. You both are my friends and I should know what is going on in your minds. First answer this question yourself  and then think about asking it to Arnav. Will you be able to see Nannav getting married to someone else? Wont you feel even a slightest prick in your heart seeing the same man who once was madly in love and possessive about you , now applying the Sindoor to some other girl? DO you still believe somewhere in your heart that no man could ever love you so honestly and truly like Arnav did?Come on Khushi answer me.

Khushi had landed herself in the most terrible situation from which she cannot escape anymore. She need to get these answers for herself and only after that she will be capable of questioning Arnav.  Seeing her lost in deep thoughts NK clicked fingers to get her attention.

NK: Got your answers? Bolo bolo..
Khushi: (getitng up): I have no answers. And you stop giving me such illogical ideas. I will not do what Anjali has asked me to neither will I ask these foolish questions to myself..
NK got angered..

NK: Foolish? These questions are foolish for you? Ohh God!! Someone has rightly said, beautiful woman's brains lies in their knees. You might be very intelligent in your profession Khushi but you lack knowledge and wisdom in "Love" subject. I am not provoking you. I just want you and Arnav to be happy. If this is the way you both chose to stay happy then I am fine with it. But tomorrow when he has one year old kid from Aliya and you are still single finding your Mr Right, dont come to me and repent God didnt  give you a chance. I cant help that time. Bye..

He started stepping towards the door just hoping she would stop him somehow understanding the seriousness of the situation. He was about to open the door when she stopped him..

Khushi: Theek hai.. I will do this..
Nk (turning around): Do what? Walk in their marriage?
Khushi: (giving him angered looks): I meant, I will ask Arnav what he has in mind. And only then I will try finding the answers to all those questions you want me to think about.
NK: What an Idea Khushiji!! ( he sarcastically commented).. Without clearing your own thoughts you want to first clear his? Amazing.!
Khushi: This is my way NK. Now dont poke in between my methods. I know what I am doing.. You just tell me how!!
NK: How? What how?
Khushi (sighed in frustration): Give him some reason to come and meet me .. We didnt see each other from one week. I dont know what is keeping him so much busy..
NK ( purposely teased): Marriage preps Khushi. He might be booking his post wedding trip with Aliya!!

Khushi picked the pillow and threw it on him but he caught it at the right time..

Khushi: Enough of teasing NK.. Help me!!
NK (chuckled): Okay.. I have an idea.! Hold a second..

He removed his phone from pocket and started dialing.

Khushi: WHom are you making a call now?
NK: Shhh .. Just wait and watch..

He put the phone on speaker. The bell rang and finally was answered.

"Hello"

Khushi skipped a heartbeat listening Arnav's voice. What is NK planning? Does he want her to ask Arnav all this on phone? Has he gone mad?

NK: Hey Nannav!! Whats up Man?
Arnav: At work!! How did you call?
NK: Uhh. Its been long we have met so I thought how about a get together? I mean all we old friends? 

Now Arnav was very sharp in these matters. Old friends? That means Khushi too? And why a get together so sudden?
Arnav: Sounds cool but I dont think I can make it. You carry on with others..

Khushi let a sigh of disappointment.

NK: But why? What are you so busy at Nannav? Its hardly a matter of few hours.
Arnav: NK, next week is my marriage. You think I will have enough time before that?
NK: I know it. Thats why I am asking you to attend this get together. Who knows what lies for us in future. We all might not even meet again so casually!! Come on Nannav.. You want me to take Aliya's permission now?
Arnav: No. Thats fine!! Dont involve her in this.
NK: Cool. That means you coming..
Arnav: Hmm..
NK: I will text you the Venue and timing tomorrow. See you then .. Bye..

He cut the call and flipped the phone back in his pocket. KHushi was watching him in confusion.

Khushi: You plan to make me embarass before everyone? How can you arrange a get together NK? How can I talk to him amidst so many people?
NK: Uff!! You draw conclusions so easily Khushi. Who said its a get together?
Khushi: What do you mean?
NK: Means my pretty friend, its just a get together for you and him.. Not for anyone else. Not even me. No one will be informed or invited except you both. I will arrange a dinner for you both in some far off place. Just clarify your hearts and return back to your normal lives. And believe me you wont get this chance again.!!

Khushi noded in affirmation. She knew this was the only chance but was she prepared to talk about their past again to Arnav?

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

Arnav was ready in his casuals to leave for the so called get together. He didnt know who all were invited, but he wanted to be a part of it. May be because this opportunity wont come again and again. He wanted to spend some time away from all those thoughts pricking in his heart regarding the forthcoming marriage. Everyday that passed, his heart was beating louder and faster than the previous day because he knew this marriage would end lot many relationships and start new ones which probably he was still not prepared for.!!!

Anjali knocked the door and entered in. She was surprised to see Arnav leaving somewhere and that too in his casuals at late evening..

Anjali: Where is my Brother going ? Looks like he is on a date with his future wife, am I correct?
Arnav: No di.. I am not going out with Aliya.. NK has arranged a get together between our old friends.. I will be back late tonight.. Dont wait for me..

Anjali was surprised. Get together?

Anjali: Ohh! Thats why even Khushi left early from here. She too might be invited, hai naa?
Arnav : ( tried to concentrate in the mirror) : May be..
Anjali : Is Aliya aware?
Arnav stopped and turned around.

Arnav :She is informed though I am not sure if she is happy with it.
Now Arnav didnt tell the fact to his sister that he and Aliya were not in proper talking terms since the night she had come to know about his and Khushi's past relationship. He had tried to clear his intentions of really marrying her but Aliya needed some space to decide on her own.

Arnav: She is still insecured and I think she is not wrong. I am doing my best to stick to marriage decision. I cant commit to anything more than this Di.
Anjali: Chotte, is this marriage being imposed to you by us ? Are you doing it only for our sake? I dont see even a tinge on happiness on your face since the date has been decided. I dont find you participating in any talks related to it. You have to take a decision before its too late.

Arnav: What decision ?
Anjali: (Zipped her lips): Ask Khushi which decision I am talking  about. She knows it .!! And enjoy your get together.

Anjali didnt wait there longer. She knew her brother would figure out everything what she meant... She purposely hinted Khushi's name so that he can go and talk to her. At least that will help Arnav understand where in stands in this whole marriage fiasco!!

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

Arnav was driving towards the Venue.. Why did his sister say "Ask Khushi?". What did she mean by this? He might get his answers only after reaching the Venue!! He parked the car inside the posh hotel premises. He saw Khushi getting down her car too. She had chose to wear black dress today. But why was he bothered about it? Why shouldnt he be bothered? He knew black was not a good choice for her. She saw him advancing towards her. She stopped gulping down the nervousness thinking about the topics she had in her agenda to discuss with him.

Khushi (Stammered): H.. h .. hi !!
Arnav: You seem to purposely invite some  trouble tonight?
Khushi: Kya? (She asked confused)
Arnav: Black Dress? Dont you remember this color is unlucky for you? Everytime you wore black we have fought!!

He remembers that? Still? He was right, they almost fought unwillingly when she wore black. he never let her wear this color during their college days. But will it still apply? She had really forgot this silly connection between them and the color Black.

Khushi: You are still unorthodox!!
Arnav: I am just saving  another fight!! Anyways, lets get in. You know who else do we have on the guest list ?
Khushi kept silent and walking with him inside. They were greeted in and gestured towards the table which was specially reserved for them in the Terrace Restaurant..

Arnav was surprised to see the table of only "2"..!!

Arnav: Where are others? And where is NK? Let me dial him..

He was about to dial but she stopped him.

Khushi: No one is coming Arnav!! Its just YOU and ME!!
Arnav met her eyes. She seemed to be confident..
Arnav: The Get together? He just arranged it for Us?
Khushi noded and looked down.
Arnav: And you knew this? Or should I say you planned it with him!! Am I correct?
Khushi: Arnav please..Dont draw conclusions like this..
Arnav: Just reply in a YES or NO.. Did you plan all this with him?
Khushi was in a trouble.

Khushi: Yes!! But..
Arnav turned around to leave.. She held his hand stopping him. .

Khushi: Arnav please.. Dont leave like this.. I have to talk something..
Arnav: (Shrugging her hands off): Talk? What do you want to talk here, so much aloof from our families and on a candle light dinner? I am getting married Khushi.. Yeh sab karna tha toh bahut pehle keh dena tha.. Its too late now ..
Khushi's eyes were moist. She was already nervous and he was making it more difficult for her.

Khushi: Will you just listen to me for once?
Arnav: NO.!! ( he clearly replied and then turned around to leave.)

She tried stopping him again but in the process her leg hit the table and she got a sprain in her ankle. She screamed in pain and that was enough for Arnav Singh Raizada to supress all his anger and look at her. He saw her struggling to stand. He rushed to her and helped her sit on the chair..

Arnav: Khushi? I .. I am sorry. I didnt know you. .

He cut his words and kneeled down on the floor to check her pain.She withdrew her feet behind..

Arnav: Khushi mujhe dekhne do..!!

He spoke with authority looking straight in her eyes. SHe could see his concern for her. She allowed him to check her ankle which was badly aching.
Arnav: ( holding her ankle to twist ): It might pain a little.
Khushi noded giving a go ahead and shut her eyes tight. He twisted her ankle ensuring she feels the slightest pain which she can bear easily. She held his arm and felt the pain easing slowly. She opened her eyes. Arnav was still kneeling down, looking at her expressions .

Suddenly both of them heard a loud clap from the other end . They became alarmed and turned to see. She was Aliya smiling sarcastically and clapping her hands coming towards them. Aliya ? ?What was she doing here, he thought while getting up from the floor. Khushi was shocked too. It was such a bad timing. She just hoped Aliya dont take them wrong in this whole situation now before knowing what they were here for.

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 19

Khushi noded giving a go ahead and shut her eyes tight. He twisted her ankle ensuring she feels the slightest pain which she can bear easily. She held his arm and felt the pain easing slowly. She opened her eyes. Arnav was still kneeling down, looking at her expressions .

Suddenly both of them heard a loud clap from the other end . They became alarmed and turned to see. She was Aliya smiling sarcastically and clapping her hands coming towards them. Aliya ? ?What was she doing here, he thought while getting up from the floor. Khushi was shocked too. It was such a bad timing. She just hoped Aliya dont take them wrong in this whole situation now before knowing what they were here for.

Aliya: Wow..!! Kya ISHQ hai.. Very impressive.
Arnav: Aliya dont draw any conclusions.
Aliya ( angrily): Conclusions? What conclusions Arnav? Everything here is so crystal clear. This night.. the hotel and a private candle light dinner with your ex lover. What else is needed to clarify my doubts?
Khushi : Aliya .. Its not what you thinking. We..

Aliya was highly frustrated to listen anything what Khushi wanted to say.

Aliya: (Interrupted):  Just shut up Khushi.. Dont you dare speak between me and Arnav today.
Khushi shiverred seeing the level of frustration Aliya was showing off. She moved back and remained quiet. Arnav got angry with Aliya's behaviour. He stepped ahead and held her hand.

Arnav: Lets talk out.
Aliya shrugged off his arms.
Aliya: Why outside ?Why not here? Let others know how you cheated me!!
Arnav (Gritting his teeth): I didnt cheat you.
Aliya: Ohh come on Arnav. Why are you still hiding things ?
Arnav: I told you before coming here.
Aliya:Yes you did. You told me the half truth Arnav. You said there is a get together. Where is it? Where are others? Why is only Khushi with you ? At least now tell me the whole truth. You and Khushi planned this date and would keep doing it at my back hereafter even if we get married. Am I right?

Arnav was raged.

Arnav: (Clenching his jaw): Aliya you are crossing limits now.
Aliya: Limits? Are you in your limits Arnav? What is this suppose to mean? You and Khushi together in a hotel for dinner, and you even helping her with the sprained ankle? Do you realise what all this mean to a third person like me? I always had this thought in my head that you dont love me and neither would you give me that place which you gave her. And today you proved that.

Arnav was speechless though his anger was only brewing high with every comment Aliya made on them.

Aliya stepped forward towards Khushi who was looking nervously at her with tears in eyes.

Aliya: What kind of woman are you? You cheated Arnav 8 years back and now trying to impose your rights on him? You messed with his life first by ditching his love and now you screwed my future too. Women like you is a shame on humanity.

Tears rolled down Khushi's cheeks because today she was been blamed for something she never even thought of. Arnav had heard enough. He clutched Aliya's arm and angrily turned her around.

Arnav: Enough Aliya..Just stop pointing at us otherwise I have no idea what I will do .
Aliya shrugged his arms off again.
Aliya: You dont have to do anything Arnav. You have done too much already.

She removed the finger ring from her hand and forcefully made Arnav hold it.

Aliya: Its over. I do not want to continue this relationship or our upcoming marriage any further.  Now you both do whatever you want. No one will poke nose in between your matters.

She gave one final look to Khushi and rushed outside the hotel premises. Silence spread around them. Arnav was holding the ring in his fist. He had never expected such sudden changes in his life.. Khushi broke down in tears but she didnt accept defeat yet. She came to Arnav.

Khushi: Stop her Arnav.. Just go and tell her she is thinking wrong about us.. Just go..

Arnav didnt even at all. He was just looking in the direction from where Aliya left.

Khushi: Fine. Dont go.. I will tell her.

She was about to leave but Arnav angrily clutched her hand and turned her around. He seemed to be very mad at her.

Arnav: Stop doing this favour Khushi. You know very well why all this happened?
Khushi: Why it happened? You mean to say I am responsible for it? Yeh meri galti hai?
Arnav angrily slid the crockery from the side table down on the floor.

Arnav: Haan .. Yeh sab tumhaari galti hai Khushi. This is all happening because of you..

Khushi stepped back in fear witnessing his anger. She was astonished because he seemed to be highly frustrated.

Arnav: Kyon Khushi? Kyon plan kiya yeh sab? Why did you lie to me about this Get together?
Khushi: Arnav I .. (she wiped her tears slowly because she had to get some courage to talk to him rather than weeping ).. I didnt know Aliya would be here. I thought we could just talk about.. about.. ( she was blank. What will she tell him what she wanted to talk about? )
Arnav clutched her arms and dragged her closer.

Arnav:About what? Us? ( he angrily questioned)

Khushi felt the pain in her arms and even struggled to set free but his next set of words baffled her..

Arnav: Tum meri zinadagi mein dobaara aayi hi kyon Khushi? Main tumse phir mila hi kyon? Agar tum dobara nahi aati toh koi aur naa sahi par mere gharwale khush rehte. Tumse dobaara milna meri zindagi ka sabse galat conincidence tha Khushi. I hate that fact.  I damm Hate it!!

He left her with the same intensity making her stumble and then walked out in anger. She held the chair for support. Her eyes clouded with tears as she registered each and every sentence he just spoke to her. He hated meeting her again in life? How could he say that?

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

It was quite a disturbing and shattering moment for the Raizada's to come to know what happened between Aliya and Arnav in the Hotel. Though Arnav had locked himself in his room not letting anyone show any kind of mercy or pain for him, only he knew that he was not thinking about Aliya but those ill words, harsh sentiments he showed towards Khushi in the hotel. How could he tell her all that? What would she go through? He was quite rude.

The family were discussing the matter downstairs .Anjali kept the phone aside after talking to Aliya about that entire scene which took place.

Nani: What did she say Anjali bitiya? I am sure she is misunderstanding the whole situation.
Anjali: ( gulping her tears): Haan Nani.. She is not willing to continue this marriage decision further. She broke the engagement.

Nani was shocked and very upset. She sat on the sofa pressing her forehead.

Nani: Thats what I feared. I told you Anjali, allowing Khushi to continue treating Anshu would not be fair. Now see what has happened. Our Chotte once again got nothing but betrayal. Why everything happens only with him? What wrong has he done?

Anjali calmed Nani down. She caressed her back gently. Shyam sat on the other end.

Shyam: Naniji whatever happens , happens for good. May be we are not seeing it correctly..
Anjali: Good? What good Shyam? What is so good in breaking of  a relationship?
Shyam: Rani Saheba, you very well knew Saale Sahab didnt love Aliya. He was just accepting what we wanted him to do. This relationship was never based on love, it was only a weak understanding.
Nani: But he would have accepted Aliya with his heart some day.
Shyam: Might be or might even not Naniji.. Could you guarantee that?
Anjali: Its good to be positive Shyam but not everytime. I dont see anything good in what happened today.
Shyam: But I do. !!
Nani: What is it ? Let we know that too.
Shyam: Khushi..
Anjali: What?
Shyam: Yes you heard it right.. May be God wants Arnav to get his love back as his life partner. May be Khushi is his destiny..

Nani: What are you talking Daamadji. This is impossible. She broke his heart and today also she is responsible for Aliya denying this wedding. You still think such a girl will fit in his life.?
Shyam: She is not bad. The situations made her look so. She  is treating Anshu, she is a good cultured , and more importantly she is not immature like she was when she rejected Saale Sahab. I think we should be considering this fact and let this matter sorted somehow.

Nani and Anjali both were blank but Shyam really had a point. But will Arnav agree? And Khushi? Does she still doesnt want Arnav as her life partner?

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

Gupta House - Next Morning

It was quiet unlike other times when Khushi kept this house busier with her morning chores. She was the only woman in this house and with so many responsibilities. Right from making the breakfast, cooking lunch for her father and packing the tiffin for his Office, assigning the respective work to the maids, gardners, driver and so on. But today it was quite silent when Arnav entered the house asking for Khushi to one of the maid. Before the maid could reply, Shashi came there completely surprised by his visit.

Shashi: Arnav? Morning beta.. What are you doing here so early?
Arnav: Uncle Where is Khushi?
Shashi: Khushi? Why?
Arnav: I have to talk to her.
Shashi: Talk? Anything urgent?

Arnav didnt respond. He really looked nervous and unable to answer anything at this point..

Shashi: ( placing his arm on Arnav's shoulder): Yesterday night when Khushi came back home, she was very disturbed. I tried to ask her what happened but she didnt speak anything to me. Today morning some things got cleared to me when your Nani called.
Arnav: Uncle I want to meet her. Where is she?

Shashi could see the desperation in Arnav's eyes to see Khushi. That urgency was so unavoidable within him today.

Shashi: She is not here.
Arnav: Not here? Then where is She?
Shashi: She has told me not to let anyone know where she has gone. I didnt realise in the beginning why she wanted me to hide her whereabouts but if I am not wrong it was you whom she wished to go away from, for sometime. Am I correct?

Arnav was shocked to know Khushi had left somewhere so suddenly and that too giving orders to her father of not letting him know where she's gone? He was getting crazier by this situation now.

Arnav: Look Uncle.. I really need to meet her. Whatever wrong happened between me, her and Aliya, I overreacted and spoke something to Khushi which I should never have. I want to take back my words. I know I didnt mean it. She knows it too but just I have to clear my stand. You have to tell me where she is.

Shashi sighed and patted his back again.

Shashi: I would still say, whatever happened between you three, you should have been in Aliya's house at this time convincing her, not asking me where Khushi is .!!

Arnav was getting irritated now. He shrugged off Shashi's arm.

Arnav: Fine.. Dont tell me where Khushi is, I will find out myself. !! Thanks for your patience Mr Gupta..!!

He stepped back and walked away . Shashi could see how much hurt Arnav was but whatever he advised wasnt wrong. He was still so much bothered for Khushi and not Aliya. That proved, somewhere deep down his heart, the love which he had for Khushi, still exists.

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 20

Almost a day passed, Arnav was still unable to find where Khushi was. He had tried reaching her number but now it was Out of coverage. He had tried contacting her email and social network account to but never got a response. How can she be so insensible? What does she think, all this ignorance will help make things fine? Cant she give him one chance to explain and apolozise for being so harsh on her? He knew she was very hurt but does she care about him? Does she realise he is hurt too ? He kept fiddling with the papers in the file which were scattere on his bed and he had no idea what he actually wanted to do with them. He threw the file aside in anger and stood up. The file fell right before Anjali and Aliya's feet who had just entered his room. They both could see how much upset he was. Arnav was little taken back seeing Aliya here . He composed himself meanwhile Anjali picked the file from the floor.

Anjali: Chotte.. Aliya wants to talk something to you. .
Arnav: Any more blames remaining Aliya? which you forgot to put on me the other day? ( he angrily questioned)
Aliya: Will you allow me to speak?

Arnav tried his best to calm down though he knew this was possible only when he finds Khushi.

Anjali: I will be downstairs. Call me if you need.

She passed a weak smile to Aliya and left the room. Aliya walked towards him.

Aliya : I know you are not in a very good mood Arnav.. .And I also know that I am not the cause of your worry.. !! Its someone else!!
Arnav: Are you here to read my mind Aliya? ( she became quiet but he  continued). Just say something because I am really not in a mood to discuss that same Triangle.. You .. me and Khushi. So please come to the point..
Aliya ( took a deep sigh): Okay. .I will come to the point then.. Khushi had met me yesterday morning. Now does that interest you Arnav?

Arnav's expressions changed suddenly. Khushi.. She met Aliya? Yesterday? He clutched her arms in eagerness to know the full story behind it.

Arnav: What do you mean? She met you? But hows that possible?
Aliya: She wanted to talk to me before leaving the city. I wasnt much happy seeing her yesterday because my anger was still bubbling within but her confession cleared some of my pain Arnav. She told me the truth about that get together. She said it was she and NK who had planned it just for you both so that you guys can clear out what you have in your heart. Infact she had to think about this because it was Anjali Di who wanted her to talk to you and confirm if you are really willing to go ahead with our marriage..

Arnav was dumbstuck. His Di wanted Khushi to talk about this topic?

Aliya: She proved to me you were unaware of that meet and talk. I mistook everything and messed up that night. Sorry Arnav. I know I have hurt you.. But .. this pain equalises the pain you gave me..!!

Arnav was not understanding what pain she was talking about which he gave to her. But she  didnt make him wait too long, she continued with her explanation.

Aliya: I love you.. And I always wanted to get that love back from you but it never happened and might never have even if we got married. I had started realising this fact very long back, even before Khushi came back in our lives but I always believed to change this belief of mine . But alas, now I have reached that saturation point in my life where I can see what is right and what is wrong. 

She slowly stepped forward and held his hand. he could see tears in her eyes.

Aliya: Our marriage decision was wrong Arnav. Your and Khushi's so called silent and unfelt relationship is still right!! Dont think I am blaming you. I am not.. When love happens, we dont think about anyone or anything else except that love, just like even after all this mess, you are still not thinking about convincing me for the wedding, but you are busy in finding out where Khushi is and how can you get a way to talk to her.

Arnav gulped down his feelings, he had no words to say to Aliya who was being so strong and understanding today.

Arnav: Aliya .. I ..
Aliya: Ssshh .. Dont speak anything. I have not completed yet..

He became quiet again..

Aliya: I cant spend a life with a man who always will have someone else in his heart. I deserve a better partner, a better lover, dont I?  So Mr Arnav Singh Raizada, you are free from this imposed relation between us. I am not saying this with any pain in my heart now. I honestly want you to sort things out between you and kHushi. I want you to sort the confusion between your heart and her mind. I know you will find a way out and succeed. All the best!!

Arnav wiped her tears slowly and held her hands in his..

Arnav: You have changed!! Your thoughts, your decisions have become more matured and concrete.
Aliya ( composing herself): Yeah.. I know.. Love changes everything and everyone. Wish I was that girl whom you had met in your college days. I wouldnt have been that foolish to choose my career over you. But sigh.. You are already been booked and I will have to find someone else who can really carry the burden of my delicate heart within him. Just pray I find that man soon. I am not used of being Single again you see!! (she chuckled and Arnav smiled too. )

Arnav and Aliya both felt a lot better after this conversation.

Aliya: And yes...I dont know whats your and Khushi's future, but I definately know we both are not going to break up that friendship between us. I believe you will at least consider this proposal from me. Will you ?
Arnav: Ofcourse, until I dont see you happy finding your life partner, I am not going to get peace..
Aliya: Stop worrying .. If luck prevails ,I will find him soon. Now you continue with scattering and fiddling with these important papers, I will leave. Bye.

Aliya was really being sweet today and Arnav liked the fact that they cleared the misunderstanding between them. But all this could not sideline the truth that Khushi had left somewhere only to give him and Aliya and chance to re-think about their marriage.

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

Gupta House

Shashi was desperately waiting for his daughter to call him up and update about she reaching safely. Also he wanted to know a lot more from her. Luckily his phone rang and he knew it was Khushi only.

Shashi: Hello Khushi?
Khushi: Paapa.. I have reached safely.. Sorry I couldnt drop you a message earlier, that jet lag made me rest for hours here..!!
Shashi: No problem beta.. Where are you staying by the way? Which Hotel?
Khushi was silent for a while but she had to reply something to her father.

Khushi: Uhh.. Dad. I am not staying in a hotel..
Shashi ( worried): Not in a hotel? Then where Khushi ?
Khushi: Umm.. its an apartment Dad. A rented one..

Shashi was totally confused.

Shashi: Rented apartment? But why? You are already in a new place Khushi and upon that you staying in a rented apartment ? How's that gonna work?
Khushi: Dad relax.. I am fine.. And this place is not new to me.. I have lived here before..

She gulped her tears and then tried to wind up the conversation.

Khushi: Dad.. I got to arrange my things here so I will call you later okay?
Shashi: Okay.. But Khushi.. I had to tell you something.. Arnav had come yesterday.. He was asking about you..

Khushi's heart skipped a beat knowing he had come for her.

Shashi: He wanted to talk to you.. May be apolozise for what he said. But I didnt tell him your whereabouts..
Khushi ( gulping her tears again): Thanks Paapa.. Its better like this. I have already messed a lot with him and his family. I dont want them to be hurt again.
Shashi: But Khushi I dont think you leaving the place for some days is going to change anything. And Aliya and Arnav are not going to get married. His Nani had called me and told me about the marriage cancelling.

Khushi: (Sighed): Paapa.. Give them some time.. I have told Aliya the truth and cleared her misunderstanding. Everything will be okay in a while..
Shashi: The way Arnav was looking for you, his restlessness, his anger for not getting the reply from me, I dont think anything will change Khushi. He will find you, he will come to you one day and you will have to answer him that time..
Khushi: Lets hope that never happens. Bye Paapa. I will call you later..

She disconnected the call with a heavy heart and scanned the empty room once again. She was in US, in the same city where she and Arnav had met, in that same apartment which they once shared. She left India with a hope to get away from Arnav's life but she embraced their old memories, the friendship and his kindling love which had come to a halt at this same place. Staying with these memories was the biggest punishment she could give to herself  but she accepted it whole heartedly. Their joy, their childish arguments, their silly fights, everything started at this house. She stood up and walked in the bedroom where he used to stay. She remembered each and every conversation they used to have here, every movie they saw together in this room which always used to be her favourites. He used to tease her when she shed tears seeing her favourite actor been beaten by the goons, he used to feed her popcorn, he used to allow her put her head on his shoulder and doze just like that leaving the movie half complete, he used to teach her on the weak subjects during the exams, he used to share jokes, thoughts and a lot more which she can never forget ever. Each of that moment became precious today. Each of those images in her mind became her only solace to come out of the pain.

She stepped in the kitchen and once again she could actually visualise how Arnav always taught her to cook. She always wanted her mother to do that for her, make her learn cooking but she lost her mother at a very young age and never really took cooking seriously after that. But it was Arnav who once again made her know the basic elements that a woman must know and inbibe within her. Arnav was not just her friend, he was also her philosopher, her guide those days.

She reached the living room where her bags were and removed that old photo frame of hers and Arnav during the college days which she had framed those days. She always saved it with her even though their relationship became bitter. But today she no longer had to keep this frame in the closed cupboard. She removed it and hung it on the wall. She kept looking at that picture for long with tears in her eyes and then rubbed her fingers over it. This man had loved her once and she had hurt his emotions, his feelings for a foolish bet.. He had given enough years to himself for staying without her.. Now it was her time.. It was her time to stay without him.. Tere bin!!!

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 21

Almost 2 more days had passed, Arnav now had given up the hope of getting any update from Shashi Gupta about Khushi. Like daughter like father. They both were stubborn at times when it came to keep promises. So Arnav found one last ray of hope and that was NK. He met NK at his house.

Arnav: I am asking you for the last time NK, tell me where Khushi is?
NK: I dont know Nannav.. If I had known, why would I hide it from you? I am also equally worried for her Man.
Arnav: Ohh Really? It was you who gave her this dumb idea of meeting me in the name of the get together of friends. And now you are showing concern for her?
NK: I gave her that idea because she really wanted to meet you alone.. I cannot push someone without their consent Nannav. She wanted to talk to you about..

NK suddenly zipped his lips realising he cannot say anything beyond this.

Arnav (little confused): About? About what NK? WHat did she wanted to talk? Tell me
NK: Uhh. Nothing. I dont know.. You ask her that when you meet her.
Arnav (sighed in disappointment): How am I supposed to meet her when I dont know where she is ?
NK: Huhh. I know.. But Nannav.. Dont worry. When I am here you stop taking stress okay. Take a deep breathe. Blow air out.. Come on..
Arnav ( angrily): Shut up NK..
NK: Nannav.. I am serious. You cannot think properly in anger. You have to calm down.
Arnav: I dont think you know anything and neither are you of any help to me.. Its better I find her myself..
NK ( blocking his way): I can give you  tips where to find her.

Arnav: No thanks.. Ek tip diya tha tumne Khushi ko of meeting me and that has really cost us all a lot. So please. You sit back and mind your own business now.
NK: (Chuckled): You insulting me Nannav.. Look.. Whatever I did, that made a change.. A positive change, didnt it? Aliya realised she cannot marry a man like you. (Arnav looked at him in frustration).. I mean.. You didnt love her.. She realised that.. So one problem solved.. Now regarding finding Khushi.. I promise you I can help.
Arnav: (Folding his arms): Accha? Kaise?
NK: Umm.. First promise me I am in this mission?
Arnav: What?
NK: Mission Finding Khushi Nannav.

Arnav was serious but NK's funny talks were helping him come out of that grumpy mood.

Arnav: Okay. You are IN.. Now tell me what you think? Where can she go?
NK: Out of India.
Arnav: I know that.. Her phone is not reachable and that confirms she is not in India.. She is not the one who can manage two different numbers. So its obvious she is not here.
NK: Good. Very impressive Nannav..
Arnav: Thats all you have ?
NK: Nope. I have more.. I mean look.. She is out of India.. Means she is somewhere where she is needed or she would like to go. Which is her favourite foreign destination?
Arnav: Bali..

Arnav had a weak smile on his face.. 8 years back when he had started loving this girl, he even had thoguht of taking her to Bali after their marriage. He seemed lost in those memories now.. NK clicked his fingers to get him back to the conversation.

NK: Its summer Nannav,. She will burn her skin there. Girls wont prefer going to a beach location at such summer times. Anywhere else she wished to go?
Arnav ( thinking): I think I know where to find her
NK: Where?
Arnav:Vivaan.. He might know where she is ..
NK: Vivaan? How? How would he know?
Arnav: He had joined her social service cause. I am sure wherever Khushi is, she is gone to fulfil some of her duties related to her work. So he should know that.
NK: Wow Nannav.. You impress me again..
Arnav: Let me dial him..

Arnav did give a call to Vivaan quickly but once again that became a dead end. He had no idea where Khushi was infact he himself had not met her since weeks. Arnav disconnected the call and sat on the couch losing hope.

NK: This is insane. No one knows where she is except her father? Hows that possible? Nannav .. mere bhai.. you will have to re-think where she can go. Its only you who might get that answer. No one else can because we dont know her better than you.

Arnav closed his eyes and leaned back on the chair. NK could realise how desperate Arnav was to meet Khushi. So he thought of having some fun to cheer up his mood.

NK: Waise Nannav.. What will you do meeting her? I mean I know you were little harsh on her the last time you met. So are you only going to say Sorry for that or will there be something else added too in your talks?

Arnav opened his eyes.

Arnav: You are having fun dont you ? You like seeing me in so much of distress? Here I am trying to think NK. I dont know what I will do when I meet her. But yup. The first thing will be clutching her arms and screaming at her for making me play this hide and chase game.
NK: Aww. Nannav..Cool down . WOh mil jaayegi.
Arnav: I hope so NK. Every single minute of this chase is making me weak. Aisa lagta hai sab mere wajah se hua hai. I shouldnt have talked to her so rude.
NK (Sitting next to him): Waah.. What a pair you both are. There Khushi left the country because she considered herself to be the reason for all this mess . And now you are assuming that it happened because of your ill words. What can I name this love? Hayee..
Arnav: Shut up NK...

He got up.. NK got up too.

NK: WHy shut up? So you dont love her?
Arnav didnt reply anything.
Arnav: I will leave. Bye.
NK: But why ? Nannav.. You cant leave this question unanswered. Say something.

Arnav didnt wait there anymore. He kept walking and then finally left his house.

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

Shashi Gupta was sitting in his room reading the newspaper when suddenly his servant told him about Mrs Kundra who was the head of the NGO which Khushi worked for. Shashi greeted her and asked her to be comfortable.

Mrs Kundra: Shashiji where is Khushi? I tried calling her number but its out of coverage. Is she okay?
Shashi: Ohh yes. She is completely fine but she is not here. She.. Uhh.. She is out of country for few days
Mrs Kundra: Ohh. But why suddenly she left without informing us?
Shashi: I know she has work commitments in the NGO but she had some important work and hence she left.
Mrs Kundra: I understand. But when is she coming back??
Shashi: I am not sure on that. May be few weeks later.

Mrs Kundra was unhappy..

Mrs Kundra: Few weeks?? Ohh.. That will be very late. I was hoping she comes back soon. There is yet another task for her which she might like to take up.
Shashi: Task.. ?? But I don't think she will take it at this time.
Mrs Kundra: Shashiji.. I know your daughter. She has always been ready for helping kids in need. She will never want to miss any of this opportunity. I think I will talk to her once and confirm what she feels about it. Give me her new number. I will call her and talk.

Shashi was in a fix if he should really let Mrs Kundra know where Khushi was.

Mrs Kundra: Come on Shashiji. I am not an unknown person that you are thinking so much to share your daughter's number. Please. I am sure even Khushi would want this.

Shashi agreed and gave Khushi's number to her.

Mrs Kundra: Thanks. I will contact her in sometime.bye..

Mrs Kundra left and Shashi didn't get even a slightest idea who had sent her for knowing Khushi's whereabouts..

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

AR office

Arnav took the number from Mrs Kundra with delight.

Arnav: Thanks Mrs Kundra.. I really appreciate your help.
Mrs Kundra: Mr Raizada.. I have never lied to anyone at least in such matters. But I still felt like doing this act for you because I can see the desperation in your eyes to meet Khushi once. But what is so wrong between you and her that she left so suddenly without wanting anyone to know her whereabouts?
Arnav: Its a long story Mrs Kundra. I will tell you some other time.. Right now my priority will be talking to Khushi. I hope you don't mind.

Mrs Kundra understood the seriousness of this matter. She wished Arnav luck and then left his cabin..
Arnav kept looking at the number for long. He was thinking if calling Khushi directly on the number will help? What if she doesn't answer? What if she hangs up hearing his voice? And the worst of it, what if she decides to move some other place knowing he has come to know where she is? He cannot miss this opportunity.. So he had to take some other way to reach her.. And he already had planned it in his mind..

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

3 days later

Khushi was tired staying alone in that apartment. In these few days she had almost re-lived every moment of their life which happened 8 years ago. The only most important part missing was the presence of Arnav. She had no contacts with him but she wished that by now Aliya and Arnav have sorted everything between them. She could get updates from her father but she chose not to talk about it as it would hurt her even more. She had no idea how long she would stay here but one thing was sure, until she knows Aliya and Arnav had settled down their misunderstanding she will not return back. She dressed up and walked in the nearby store to shop some vegetables for the dinner. She was tired ordering pizza's for her meal. She was missing that Indian food very much. Hence why not cook here what she prefers for a change? This might even get her out of those topics thinking which she only gets pain? She took a basket and started selecting the vegetables.. She was about to pick aloo when suddenly she remembered how much Arnav hated aloo unless it was to make his favourite aloo parathas? She smiled and kept walking to the next counter. And then came the bittergourd. She smiled to herself thinking how she forcefully used to feed Arnav bittergourd which was good for his diabetes.. She was about to pick some when she heard his voice.

" Main aaj bhi karela nahi khata Khushi.."

Khushi jerked turning around . Arnav?? He was here?? How did he come here ?? Who told him her whereabouts? Arnav was standing opposite watching her intensely with his hands in pockets. She could read his doubts, his concern for her in eyes. What she also read in them apart from this was his feelings for her which didn't look normal..

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 22

" Main aaj bhi karela nahi khata Khushi.."

Khushi jerked turning around . Arnav?? He was here?? How did he come here ?? Who told him her whereabouts? Arnav was standing opposite watching her intensely with his hands in pockets. She could read his doubts, his concern for her in eyes. What she also read in them apart from this was his feelings for her which didn't look normal..

Khushi dropped the bittergourd from her hand and turned around not to see him. This was such a childish act she did though she knew it wont work.

Arnav: So now you dont know me? ( he asked in frustration seeing her turning around)

Ofcourse she knew him but she had no guts to talk to him. She started walking ignoring him. She was still unable to believe he was here. Arnav followed her and within few steps blocked her way.

Khushi: Leave .. leave my way Arnav.. (she hesitated meeting his eyes still)
Arnav clenched his jaw trying to keep a control on his anger.
Arnav ( holding her hand): Thats not going to happen anytime soon.

He started dragging her out of this store, towards the bill counter. She kept struggling.

Khushi: Arnav what are you doing? Everyone is watching us..

He didnt care. He kept taking her with him. They reached the bill counter. He snatched the basket from her and paid the bill using his own credit card. She had a problem with that too..

Khushi: I can pay that. You dont have to..

He didnt listen one word from her. Taking the bags in his other hand he kept dragging her out of this place. Finally when they were out towards the parking, she managed to get off his hold. He stopped.

Khushi: What do you think you are doing Arnav?  (She seemed angry)
Arnav ( dropping the bags down): What do you think I am doing? ( he stepped forward and looked in her eyes).. I am taking you back home dammit!!
Khushi: I am not going anywhere with you..Just leave.

He was getting frustrated by her talks but he kind of guessed why she was behaving so. He clutched her arms and looked in her eyes again.
He kept a control on his anger too.

Arnav: Khushi I know why you came here.!

Khushi immediately looked in his eyes. He knew? He knew why she is here? Her heart started beating faster.

Arnav: Look.. Whatever happened in that hotel the other day, whatever I said to you, I didnt mean it. You know it I can never regret we meeting each other in life. 

Ohh!! SO he knew this? Nothing more. She started breathing normal again. But moved his arms away.

Khushi: Arnav please, you should go back and sort things with Aliya, not me.
Arnav: I sorted.
Khushi was again stuck. Sorted ? What does he mean by that now? Are they together again?

Arnav: I told her we arent meant to be together. Aliya and Me can never have that compatibility which.. ( he stopped speaking suddenly making KHushi more curious)

Khushi: Which?
Arnav: (Stuck what to reply her): Which.. Uhh. .Which is necessary for a relationship.. We have parted our ways Khushi
Khushi (little angry): Parted ways? What are you saying Arnav? How can you do this? She was your fiancee. I had convinced her there is nothing between you and me. How can you just part ways then. This is not right... You should go back ..Arnav you should.. ( he gripped her hands tight)...
Arnav: Khushi .. I dont love her.

Her heart started beating faster again. And this time she knew this irregular breathing of hers was not going to turn normal so soon...

Arnav: And I know you know it very well .
Khushi ( gulped but still stuck to the point): You dont love her? You can love her in future Arnav.. How could you just say that?
Arnav: Because I dont commit to people something which I really dont wish to do. I didnt wanted her to suffer. I had ruined her life enough. I wanted her to live happily at least now. And this was not my decision. She thought the same. We took this decision mutually.

Khushi was absolutely shocked.

Khushi: You should re-think..
Arnav: I did that hundred times Khushi. And my answer is still NO. I cannot marry Aliya. I know I have hurt her unintentionally because may be I had stopped thinking for myself. Now.. I am more clear on what I want, whom I want!! ( he said that gripping her hands again)

Khushi was cold and numb. She probably knew what he was indicating to her. But was it right? He had just broke his engagement, and now he is here for her, to take her back. Does it mean right? Does it all seem right?

Arnav picked the bags from the road again ..

Arnav: Get in the car!!

He loaded her bags in the car but even then Khushi seemed to be lost in some deep thoughts. He practically had to hold her hand, get her till the car door, make her sit inside and tie the seat belt. Thats when she came back to reality and looked at his face with more confusion.

Khushi: How did you know I am here?
Arnav ( sitting at his seat and starting the car engine): I managed !!

He drove the car out on the streets. He took the same way towards the apartment where she stayed. Now this was again thrilling for her.

Khushi: You even know where I am staying?
Arnav ( noding a yes): You were always weak in hiding from me.

She didnt speak a word. He parked the car and then both got down. Just like she did, he too had a lot of memories about this place. There was so much they shared here. Seemed like life had got them again at the same place where this started.. where their love started.. He walked till the door of their apartment and then asked her the keys.. She passed it on to him staring at his face for few seconds. He opened the door and both entered in.

The first thing Arnav saw was their picture frame together of their college times hung on the wall. Khushi quickly rushed to the wall knowing what he was admiring at and turned the frame.

Khushi: Uhh. I didnt find a good hotel around. SO.. So I rented this place again.. ( she lied)

Arnav came to herand turned the photo frame again correctly.

Arnav: Stop lieing to me.
Khushi (gulped): You stop emabarrasing me first.. Why did you come here? You could have waited for few more days. Main aa jaati Arnav( I would have come back Arnav)
Arnav: I know ( he noded).. But main phir bhi aagaya.. (But I still came for you)

She had no idea where these talks were leading them to. She moevd in the Kitchen allowing Arnav to check this place again. Arnav kept scanning each and every corner of this house which looked so much like before. She had arranged everything just like it was when they left this place. He moved the curtains apart and looked outside the window.She came out from the kitchen with two coffee's. She passed one to him.

Arnav: Would you mind if we share this house again?
Khushi's eyes widened!!
Khushi: What? Share? No.. We cant Arnav.. Its not right..
Arnav: Why? We did that before too, didnt we?
Khushi: We had an excuse then..
Arnav: I have an excuse even now.. I dont like the view from my Hotel room where I have checked in. This view is perfect.. ( he said admiring Khushi making her cheeks go red)
Khushi: No Arnav..
Arnav: Sshh!! Its confirmed now. Till we are here, we are staying together. I dont want to lose you again.. I will get my luggage back and book our tickets back to India..

He gulped the hot coffee in a go and started walking to the door. Khushi was simply looking at him ..

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

Few hours later

Arnav had already returned with his luggage and was resting in his room as he seemed to be very tired by the Jet lag. He had travelled such a huge distance just to see her and get her back home. That was really sweet of him. But Khushi was still unhappy with what happened between him and Aliya. She was talking to her father over the phone and sharing this important news of Arnav being here, with her.

Shashi: I cant believe this. He tricked me? He tricked Shashi Gupta?

Khushi had a smile on face. She literally chuckled knowing her father's state. Shashi felt happy..

Shashi: Finally!! My daughter got her smile back. It seemed years she had lost it!! Chalo.. Atleast Arnav's come back there became beneficial.
Khushi ( stopped laughing): But Paapa. Aliya?
Shashi: Khushi I know you feeling bad for her. But I respect their decision. If Arnav didnt love her there was no point she staying with him. See.. When you told Arnav years back that you dont love him, did he stay with you after that? No.. He left.. Today Aliya followed his footsteps. Aliya is a brave girl Khushi. She will find her Mr right. Dont worry about her. Okay?

Khushi was still disappointed but she agreed..

Khushi: Okay Paapa. I will call you later. I need to cook  Dinner.
Shashi: Okay. Give my regards to Arnav and haan when you returning back?
Khushi: He got our tickets for next week dad.
Shashi: Next week? Fine. Whats the plan then? Go out somewhere. You both are familiar with that place. So find some time in relishing those old memories of your friendship. After such a long time you both are friends again.
Khushi : I will think on it. Now Bye..

She disconnected the call and kept sitting on the couch thinking about those old times.. So much pleasant those days were.

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

Night

Arnav had woke up and she realised that hearing his voice. He was talking over the phone probably. Some official talks she thought and kept cooking the parathas, his favourite..!!  He came in the kitchen talking over the phone still. He smiled at her and she smiled too in return. He cut a peice of the paratha and tasted it. She could say it from his look that he did love what she cooked for him. He hurried his talks and finished the call instantly. He was about to pick another peice when she hit his hand gently..

Khushi: Wash your hands first..
Arnav: What the!!
Khushi: No What the!! It was your rule before sitting for Dinner. Did you forget Mr Arnav Singh Raizada?

Well!! He can never forget anything related to them.. Earlier when they stayed together, Khushi was very much indisciplined in such matters. And he always used to teach her what right is. So this time she was doing the same with him now.

Arnav: If you are so much bound to those rules Miss Khushi Gupta then we had another rule too.
Khushi: Kya? (She asked curiously)
Arnav: I fed you the first morsel!!

Khushi hiccuped remembering that.. He wasnt lieing. But feeding her the first morsel now? After 8 long years? Didnt seem good.!!

Khushi: ( walking to the dining table): Grow up Arnav. Things have changed now.

She kept the plates and bowls on the table.

Arnav held her hand and turned her around..

Arnav: Nothing ever changed between us Khushi. It was we who thought its over!! 
Khushi's heart beat rapidly once again. Arnav took a peice of paratha and dipped it in the curd first and then the pickle. Just the way she likes to eat it.

Arnav: For our friendship ( he got the morsel towards her lips)

She had no way that to allow him feed her this bite. There was so much of attraction between them always.. Those days she didnt realise it and now she couldnt help ignoring it!!

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 23

This was their first day together, again, in this same apartment wherein they had shared a beautiful friendship earlier. Today once again that friendship had slowly started to bloom. Arnav inserted the DVD player and switched on their Plasma TV. Khushi made herself comfortable on the Couch holding the pop corn box in her hand and picking a few popcorns in between her fingers. Where was their life leading them now? They both were here in US, staying alone but with each other, as friends or may be little more than that compared to earlier. Was this normal? She felt Arnav holding her hand and making her feed him the popcorns which she was holding earlier in between her fingers..

Arnav ( munching the popcorns): Your phone is ringing. Answer it.

Her phone was ringing? Since when? Was she so much lost in him that she didnt even realise that? She quickly turned aside and picked her phone. It was Aliya's call. She was shocked and confused on what her next action should be.

Khushi: Aliya? Why is she calling me?And who gave her my US number ? Is that you Arnav?
Arnav: (Srouching his eyebrow high): Does it matter if you share your personal number with her? No right? You were hiding from me, now I found you. .So why so amazed when others are trying to contact you ? Stop worrying and answer the call.

Khushi: But Arnav. What will I.. What will I talk to her?
Arnav: ( sitting next to her holding the remote control): You will miss the beginning of the movie if you delay further. Chalo. Answer the call ( he snatched the phone from her , pressed the answer key, and held the phone on her ear..)

She had no choice but to talk though she was highly nervous ..

Khushi: Uhh. Hi.. Hi Aliya..
Aliya ( On call): Haa!! Finally you answered .. I was going to disconnect the call now. Anyways.. Hi Khushi.. How are you?

Khushi turned towards Arnav who was busy in selecting the movie from the DVD menu and held the mobile in her hands allowing him to be free.

Khushi: I .. I am fine Aliya.. and you?
Aliya: Not too bad.
Khushi ( gulped down ): Aliya.. I am sorry.. I really am Sorry for hurting you .. But believe me I didnt do anything willingly..

This was the first statement Khushi could make from her end.. She really was guilty that Arnav broke his engagement with Aliya and came to her in US.

Aliya ( Interrupting her): Khushi relax.. You dont have to feel sorry for anything. Infact I should be asking forgiveness. I always mistrusted your bonding with Arnav.. I always had that insecurity in my heart and mind that you have purposely entered our lives again. I disrespected you.. I said those hurtful words which any girl wouldnt have tolerated .. Please forgive me..

Khushi ( moist eyes): Aliya but some of your assumptions werent wrong. You both broke your relationship because of me..

Arnav gave her a short glance with slight anger. He never liked when Khushi treated herself low before anyone..

Aliya: Huhh!! He didnt break it off. I did. I was the one to understand our relationship had nothing in it. SO whats the point in continuing?
Well..  Lets just forget what happened Khushi.. Infact I told all this to Arnav also.. Our lives are finally back on track and we have realised who belongs to whom, dont we?
Khushi still felt bad for Aliya but she didnt extend this conversation in that turn anymore.

Aliya: Chalo. I finished what I had to say.. After you left without letting us know.. I was always waiting for this opportunity when I could ask forgiveness from you. So I hope we would stay in touch Khushi ..
Khushi: Yea. Of course.
Aliya: Great. So you have a good time and see you soon. Bye..
Khushi: Bye..

The call was disconnected.. Khushi was displeased..

Khushi: Poor girl..
Arnav took her phone and kept it aside. He then fed her some popcorn though she was really not in a mood of having it..

Khushi: Arnav, dont!!
Arnav: Stop hurting yourself Khushi.. Trust me all is good now.
Khushi: People dont really move on so easily Arnav..
Arnav: No one better than me can understand this Khushi. I know.. People get hurt but they are sensible enough not to lament over their past forever. Give her some time.. Okay?

Khushi noded weakly and then turned back to watch the TV.

Khushi: Will you at least now tell me which movie we watching?
Arnav: I bet you would love it ( he played the movie revealing suspense finally. )

Khushi jumped with joy reading the movie title " Maine Pyaar Kiya" . This was the first movie which made her crazier for this actor.

Khushi: Gosh!! WHere did you get this DVD from ?
Arnav: Found a store..( he smirked seeing her smiling )..

He knew how much she loved this movie and the star in it.. When they were together earlier, she always demanded him to get this DVD so that they can watch the movie together but he kept ignoring it as he never wanted her to praise any other man apart from him. He was very possessive for her then.. Not that he was not possessive for her anymore. But now they were matured enough to understand the difference between crush, liking and love!!

They kept watching the movie together and there came the scene where the villian of the movie screams to his friends in the party, defaming the actor and actress's friendship..

"Ek Jawan Ladka aur ek ladki kabhi dost nahi ban sakte Prem" (A young boy and a girl cannot be just friends Prem)

This dialogue almost kicked her senses.. This was just a movie . But the statement had a power packed intensity in it which Khushi felt instantly.. This was so true in her case.. She and Arnav started their relationship from being friends first.. And then that friendship turned out to be love from his end.. Though she had realised it, she never accepted that love wholeheartedly. 8 long years had passed, and now when they were together again, she wanted to confess so many feelings to him, she was still holding back .. Why? Why cant she just tell him she wants that relationship to continue which she had left half way earlier? Wasnt this an enough proof that he broke up his engagement with Aliya and came in search of her in US? Of course he always proved his love to her in his actions. It was time she did that too. She had a smile on her lips but she was equally feeling ackward for anything further. She bunned her hair and put the clutcher.

Khushi: I am sleepy..
Arnav: Really? Dont want to continue the movie?
Khushi: Not tonight. You watch... ( she stood up to leave but Arnav caught her hand. She stopped and turned around to know why he did that? )
Arnav: You want to say something?

Khushi gulped down her thoughts.. How did he come to know?

Khushi: Uhh.. Yes.. Good night Arnav.. !  ( She made him leave her hand gently)

Arnav couldnt believe this.. She was still keeping silence on that matter? Damm!! This girl was always adamant.. But if she wanted to play this "Who would confess first?" game with him, then he was ready for it.. He will make her lose this time..

Arnav: Good night!!

She took her stuff, shut the lights of his room and finally left the room.

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

Next Morning

She placed the breakfast on the table. She very well knew Arnav was awake by now as she heard him speaking over the phone.. Business talks again!! After few minutes when he came out, she was surprised to see him dressed.

Khushi: Leaving somewhere?
Arnav: Yes. Have to meet someone. You mind if I eat my breakfast out? Getting late actually!!
Khushi was unhappy..
Khushi: I made your favourite Arnav.
Arnav: Uhh. I will have it for Lunch.

His phone started ringing again and he quickly answered while walking to the door.

Arnav: Yea Sim I have just started. See you soon.

"SIM"? Who the hell was she? She never heard this name from Arnav before.. Or may be she did but didnt remember? Uff!! This man ignored her cooked food for meeting this girl? What was so urgent? She locked the door in anger after he left and returned back to the table for eating alone.

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

Frustration was building up within Khushi. It was evening and Arnav had still not returned. He had promised to come for lunch, didnt he? Then what was he so busy at? Not that he didnt inform her he would be late. She had got his message few hours back that he was still with Sim and might be late. This was definately nothing to do with his professional life. He had no work here . She was confident this was personal. But Arnav is not like that. He always had few friends and definately not here in US anymore. Who was this Sim then? She kept pacing in the room with frustration.Finally she heard the sound of a car getting parked. She rushed to the balcony to check. Arnav got down from an unknown car along with a lady who was driving it. The woman was smiling happily looking at him whereas he too didnt look much bad. Seems like they both had really a good time the whole day. Damm!! What was she even thinking? Arnav can never be happy with any other woman but her!! She believed that.. He made her believe that by breaking off his enagagement with Aliya then why was he doing all this now? Arnav stood down talking to the lady for some more time and then finally they see off each other .She drove her car out and Arnav rushed to the elevator to get home. Khushi breathed hard and then walked to the door. She opened it after Arnav rang the bell. He looked happy and that made her more angry.

Khushi ( at the door): Who was she?
Arnav: Excuse me?
Khushi: That woman .. who dropped you here.. Who was she? And where is your car? Is she SIM? You were with her the whole day? You ignored my cooked breakfast for her?

She didnt even care that he was still at the door and not even stepped in..

Arnav: Would you allow me to get inside first?
Khushi breathed hard again controlling her anger and then moved aside. He got in. She closed the door with a loud noise, taking the frustration on this wooden door.
Arnav loosened his tie and finally sat on the couch. Khushi stopped few feets away from him to get answers..

Arnav: Can I have some water?
Khushi clenched her jaw and folded her arms not moving an inch.
Khushi: Help yourself!!
Arnav very well realised how much frustrated she was..
Arnav: (Getting up from sofa): Okay.

He went to the kitchen, opened the refrigerator and gulped the cold water from the bottle. .The moment he kept the bottle back in, she blocked his way out..

Khushi: Why are you taking so much time to answer my questions?
Arnav smirked.
Arnav:Seeing you like this, I remembered that day when Robin had dropped you home from his bike from college. Do you memorise that fight between us that night?
Khushi: Dont change the topic Arnav. Do you even realise what I went through the whole day? I was going mad thinking who this Sim is? I was waiting desperately for your call but you only dropped ONE damm message and that too mentioning coming home late? This is why you came here? This is why you left Aliya for ?

Arnav (Interrupting): Wait wait wait.. What has Aliya to do if I meet some Sim ?
Khushi: Aliya might have nothing to do with it.. But I do.. What do you want to prove huhh? You wanted to see if I am jealous? Fine.. Then listen Mr Arnav Singh Raizada.. I am jealous.. Very jealous.. If there was a device which could measure jealousy.. it would have broken into pieces by now.. I am that jealous.. Do you understand now?

Arnav leaned back and folded his arms staring at her face calmly..

Arnav: I havnt seen or heard anywhere a friend being so possessive for the other Khushi. Is everything alright within you ? ( he asked very casually holding his laugh)

Khushi could read in between his words now.. She realised she was getting hyper for no reason.. Arnav was really teasing her.. Thats all.

Arnav: Why did you get jealous Khushi?

By now she could understand his expressions had turned out to be very serious and had driven her anger away. She blinked her eyes to let it go.. What was she supposed to say now? Why did she over react like this? SHe was about to turn and leave but he caught her.

Arnav: SAY IT!!

She lost herself looking in his eyes. She had to complete this part of their life ..

Khushi: ( cupping his cheeks): I got you back after 8 long years.. I cant afford to let you go.. I was jealous seeing you smiling to another girl, I got carried away in my anger..

There was silence in the room for few seconds..

Arnav: And ?
Khushi: And I.. I think we should.. we should start this relationship between us .. again.. once again. freshly.. Where no Aliya.. no Sim and no other Robin can be a reason for our fight..
Arnav's heart was feeling light to hear all this from her. But he still wanted to hear those 3 magical words from her.

Arnav: And?

Khushi: ( smiling ): And wohi.. joh aap sunna chahte the.. always .. from me.. ( she took a deep breathe ). I love you Arnav.. Very much..

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 24

Khushi: ( cupping his cheeks): I got you back after 8 long years.. I cant afford to let you go.. I was jealous seeing you smiling to another girl, I got carried away in my anger..

There was silence in the room for few seconds..

Arnav: And ?
Khushi: And I.. I think we should.. we should start this relationship between us .. again.. once again. freshly.. Where no Aliya.. no Sim and no other Robin can be a reason for our fight..
Arnav's heart was feeling light to hear all this from her. But he still wanted to hear those 3 magical words from her.

Arnav: And?

Khushi: ( smiling ): And wohi.. joh aap sunna chahte the.. always .. from me.. ( she took a deep breathe ). I love you Arnav.. Very much..

Arnav felt as if his heart stopped beating. Did he really heard it from her? Or was he hallucinating? There were no words needed from his end to acknowledge what she said. He caught her hands in his. Their eye lock was intense.. Khushi's eyes became moist when she felt his grip on her hands. She learned Arnav was still trying to believe her confession of love.

Khushi: This time I am serious Arnav.. I love you.. 

Arnav (gripping her arm): 8 long years Khushi.. I had almost lost hope.. I wanted to hear these three words from you since I proposed you for marriage with that ring .
Khushi: ( tears rolled down from her eyes): How could I forget that night.. You almost scared me proposing before all our friends.. It was quite ackward and equally embarrasing. Marriage was never in my dictionary and that too at that stage when we were hardly studying.. I was not worried of our future, I knew you would prove yourself one day.. Neither I suspected your love for me would fade with time.. But.. I was just not prepared.. It was so sudden..That nervousness made me confess to you about the bet which I put with NK .. And everything went wrong.. Before I could apolozise to you, you left from there.. I cried.. I cried for days Arnav.. I hated myself for playing with your feelings..That bet started with fun and slowly slowly I understood  your seriousness in our relationship.. There were so many times when I felt like confessing you about that bet but I feared losing you. But look what happened. Even after all my attempts of hiding it from you, the truth came out from my mouth and swept off everything.. I lost my best friend.. Forgive me Arnav ..I am really Sorry for hurting you so much all these years..

Arnav wiped her tears gently..

Arnav: You cried for me??
Khush noded a Yes softly.
Arnav: Kaise? (How ?) 

She realised he was mocking . She punched her fist gently on him. Arnav chuckled and caught both her arms..

Arnav: Do you know what happened with me all these years? How I lived with that fact that you cheated me? You played with my emotions for a nonsense bet?

Khushi's heart filled with remorse again. Arnav made her sit on the couch and he kneeled down before her, holding her hands in his.. He never wished to remember that time but he still chose to let her know.

Arnav: First few months I was unable to concentrate on my studies, I could not adjust in that new place, new college and new people around. I feared to make friends. I failed in my first semester, this was ought to happen. That depression was killing me from inside, nothing ever gave joy to me after that. My life became hollow.. When I first saw the result on internet, I imagined what would happen to my family if I keep losing interest in my studies like that. I had to earn for them .. Using that as the key to my new life, I decided to take all your memories out of my heart.. I promised myself never to remember any of those days or those people who would remind me of you. It took me years to overcome all that past.. And the day when I was totally out of your thoughts, I was Arnav Singh Raizada, a rising business tycoon in India. A man who was just a dead body ..Without any soul in him. A man who had forgot to smile, a man who just lived for his family, he had no more faith in true love, a man who no more believed he can ever love anyone again just like he did once. But guess destiny had other plans.. When I had hardly made myself stable, you came back in my life.. After 8 long years.. In the award function.. That night when I received the award from you, I felt my heart beating again.. But I chose not to hear it for long.. And since then I kept avoiding you, your memories, your apologies, until you left me again and came here. Thats when I took a decision ..A decision to listen my heart Khushi.. I can never forget you.. I never stopped loving you.. I just pretended that ..

Khushi cupped his cheeks and caressed him softly to allow him suppress his pain remembering the situations he had to undergo in these 8 years..

Khushi ( tears rolling from her eyes): Hum jaante hai.. ( I know)
They both took some seconds to come out of that emotional state.
Arnav: (Composing himself): We both have seen highs and lows Khushi.. But may be we really had done something good which has led us together again. And I am not going to let this opportunity slip from my hands.
Khushi (feeling little happy by his talks): Kya karne ka iraada hai Arnav Singh Raizadaji? ( What do you intend to do Arnav Singh Raizadaji?)
Arnav smirked.

Arnav: Pehle khaana khaane ka iraada hai. ( First I wisht to eat food)

Now that reminded her of their old topic of discussion when this all started..

Khushi: ( faking anger): Kyon? uss Sim ne kuch khilaya nahi? ( Why ? Didnt Sim feed you anything outside?)
Arnav chuckled and pinched her cheek.
Arnav: I dont go out for lunch with Real Estate Agents.
Khushi ( confused) :Real Estate Agent? You mean Sim is that ? But .. what work did you have with a real estate agent Arnav ?
Arnav: Patience..
Khushi: I never have it when the matter is related to you..

Arnav sighed and finally stood up to remove the keys from his pocket.. She was still not understanding what it symbloized..

Khushi: Which keys are this ?
Arnav dragged her outside the house and then closed the main door. Khushi was startled when the door got locked and they were outside ..

Khushi: Ohh God. The keys are inside and we got locked out now..
Arnav: Not really.. Try these..

He gave her the keys which he had just removed from his pocket. Khushi was slowly realising what he meant but she still wanted to try what he asked her to do. She inserted the new keys into the latch and the doors opened.. That means these keys are of this apartment?

Arnav ( Smiled and held her to the door): I bought this house..

Khushi's eyes grew wide and her jaw dropped. He bought this house?

Khushi: What? Really? But why Arnav?
Arnav: How could you ask me that ?We have such beautiful memories here Khushi. How can I let someone else stay here ? I dreamed to buy this place since the time we started staying together from college times .. But things never worked that way.. 8 long years .. But now I finally own it.. WE OWN IT..

Khushi was completely baffled with his talks and thoughts.. he didnt just love her.. he loved everything that was related to her.. that connects him to her..

Khushi ( wrapping her arms around his neck): Impressive Mr Raizada..  If you keep behaving so loving, I will keep falling hard for you.
Arnav watched her  eyes intensely. He was about to hold her when she pushed him away.
Khushi: Arent you hungry now?

Arnav was shy.. He was such an innocent and naive human being who had always dreamed to stay so loving with Khushi.. Situations had finally started unwinding for good and their complex relationships eased down.

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

Next day

Morning was never so beautiful like today. He woke up hearing Khushi's voice and seeing her face first while stretching his arms in air and yawning..

Khushi ( keeping the tray down on table): Good Morning..

She made his tea and quickly served him while sitting next.. He looked cute when he woke up.. She brushed his hair off the forehead while he kept admiring her. He always missed these little moments with her like the old times.

Khushi: Paapa had called me up early morning.
Arnav: Is all fine there?
Khushi: Yea. Seems your Nani, Anjali Di and Shyam Jeeju had come home to meet him.
Arnav's eyebrows raised high. Khushi kept staring at him. He cleared his stand before she could spy on him.

Arnav: I havnt told them about we being together again. I wanted to check with you before confirming this news with others.
Khushi ( chuckled): I am not spying on you, dont worry. They came there with the good news of Anshu's report being clear. Just not that, Anshu even passed his exams. He will be promoted to first standard now. Isnt that great?

Arnav was happy to hear this.

Arnav: Di will be relieved.. And all the credit goes to you.. If you hadnt understood Anshu's problem and helped him, this would never have happened. Thank you.
Khushi: If you would have thanked me earlier, I would accept it, but not now. We are part of the same family now, arent we? Anshu is not just your nephew, he is mine too ..

He gulped the tea quickly and kept the cup aside.

Arnav: So? When do you want this to happen legally? Need some time ? Or should we let our families know?
Khushi was stuck. Her mind was juggling to find an answer for this. She definately wanted to marry Arnav as soon as she can. But will this be right? She looked in his eyes with confusion.

Khushi: Its just been few days that you broke your engagement with Aliya.. Will it look good? I know your family will support you in this matter, but will they accept me?  They have always seen me as Anshu's helper, as a child pyschologist not as the girl who had played with your emotions years ago. Though they now know I am the same girl but will they forgive me?

Her questions were valid. She had a point but according to Arnav she was simply thinking much.

Arnav ( caressing her hand) : They have already forgiven you. But if you still wish to give some time for things to settle down, I have no objections.
Khushi (smiled): Why are you always so sweet? Why dont you ever object my decisions?
Arnav ( pinching her cheek and getting down the bed): Shaadi ke baad.. ( After marriage)

Khushi screamed rubbing her cheeks and soothing the pain.. She knew Arnav was purposely scaring her. But when he talked about their marriage, so casually, she could feel her cheeks getting red like tomato..
Khushi: Shaadi.. ( she was lost in some thoughts just like every girl would who dreams of this special day in her life.. )
Arnav: I am sure your father will be very happy knowing his daughter has finally planned to get married. He was very much worried for your marriage.
Khushi: I know.. He always made me meet his friend's Sons informally and later ask me how I find them. It was so wierd.. But not always.. Sometimes I really enjoyed interviewing those guys and answering their foolish questions.. One of them asked me if I can cook thai food.
Arnav ( chuckled): What did you reply?
Khushi: I asked him to get married to a girl from Thailand.. ( she started laughing hard.. Arnav kept admiring her while taking his clothes from the closet for shower). But seriously.. There was this one more guy.. Karan.. He was cute.. Infact out of all these men I met, he was the only one whom I liked by heart.. A very simple and humourous personality. ( she seemed to be lost in some thoughts again and Arnav could understand it had to be about her meet with that Karan)..

Almost few seconds she was quiet and Arnav started feeling jealous already.. He sat beside her again leaving all the clothes aside..

Arnav: Khushi? ( he shook her)
Khushi: (Coming out of her thoughts): You know he had this slight beard ..French beard.. When I told him I dont like men having french beard, he said he wont mind taking it off. He wasnt that conscious material stuffed with ego.. He was nice..
Arnav ( stopped her): You said enough about him.. Kuch aur baat karein?
Khushi: Kyon? I am being honest Arnav, he is really nice..
Arnav: May be.. But I dont want you to talk or think about him anymore. We are in a relationship now Khushi.. I feel jealous when you openly admire some other man.. Stop doing that.. Alright?

Khushi sensed his anger and then started laughing heartily.. Arnav was confused..

Khushi ( holding her laugh) : I had expected you to react the same way.. You havnt changed a bit Arnav.. You are still that same old possessive boyfriend which any girl would love to have.. I am impressed..

Arnav then realised she was only testing him..

Arnav: That means there is no one called Karan whom you met?
Khushi noded in denial. She was just making fun of him..
Arnav: Khushi ki bacchi.. ( he got up to hold her but she ran out of his room locking it from outside..  )

He banged the door once..

Arnav: Khushi open the damm door.
Khushi: ( laughing): No way.. Sort your anger and please get your shower done Mr Raizada.. I will get our breakfast ready by then.

He could hear her laughs fading as she travelled to the kitchen to cook. Arnav had a smile too on his face.. And this smile was after such a long time on his face.. He really had forgot to be happy since she left him and now he got all his happiness back, he got his love back.. he got his life back..

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 25

Arnav and Khushi walked out of the Arrivals Terminal of Delhi International Airport holding each others hand. Khushi seemed to be talking something to him and smiling ,while he pushed the trolley loaded with their bags. They looked mesmerizing together. A perfect couple who were so much in love. They were lost in their own world so much that they didnt even see NK who had come to pick them up. They kept walking ahead talking to each other .. NK was shocked that they both passed from beside him but didnt even recognise that he was here. What else is expected from love birds? He sighed in disappointment and rushed behind them. Placing his arms around them from behind, he surprised the couple finally breaking their stance. 

Arnav and Khushi stopped and turned around..

Arnav: NK?
NK: Hello Nannav.. Mere Bhai..Pyar ka chasma kya pehen liya, dost ko bhool gaye haan ? Tell  .. tell .. ( Hello Nannav.. My bro.. Since the time you started wearing the glasses of love, you forgot me ?Tell.. Tell)
Khushi blushed while Arnav tried to hold his smile, though he failed miserably.
Arnav: What are you doing here?
NK:  I came here to receive you both.
Arnav: What ? How did you know we were coming back today ?
NK: When you could find whereabouts of Khushi and go to US, couldnt I find this simple date when you both returning back to India?
Khushi: NK Jasoos. Enough of teasing us.. lets go.. I cant wait to get home and see dad.

NK: Now you remembered your dad huh? ( he teased again.) .Anyways.. Come come.. Get in the car..

He opened the car backdoor and started loading their bags while Arnav pulled Khushi before she could get in. He seemed serious..
Arnav: Eager to reach home? I thought you will never like getting seperated from me again.
Khushi (sighed): Wish we could always stay together .. Every day.. every second... But Arnav, we have to keep in mind that this cannot happen until we settle down as a married  couple. Allow me some time to fix things between me and your family, I promise not to keep you waiting for long.

Arnav was pleased with her statements.They kept staring in each others eyes for few seconds. NK cleared his throat to get their attention..

NK: Guys.. Romance baad mein.. Okay? Let me drop you both to your respective homes first.
Khushi chuckled and took the backseat whereas Arnav sat next to NK at the front.. 
NK ( driving): So..? What did you guys do in US for 5 days?

Khushi and Arnav shared a glimpse of each other from the front mirror which NK noticed.

NK: Oyee hoyee.. Feeling shy both of you? Tell tell.

He poked Arnav's stomach to get some answers from him..

Arnav: Concentrate on the wheels NK.. And stop asking such foolish questions ..
NK: Aww.. Come on Nannav.. Be a sport yaar. Dont forget I am the one who helped you both in bringing up your feelings towards each other.
Arnav: Thank you for supporting NK but what else do you expect to happen between me and Khushi in US?
Khushi: Let me answer it for you.. You know how Shy Arnav becomes when anyone talks about us.. ( she teased Arnav back pinching his arm)
Arnav rubbed his arm giving her a warning look and then kept looking out of the window

Khushi: So.. NK.. We.. roamed in the city.. watched movies, did some shopping and .. cooked together..
NK : Wow.. Thats a cool list.. Thats all? Anything beyond that ?
Khushi: Shut up NK..
NK: ( smiling): Okay.. I better shut up before Nannav throws me out of the car.

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

It had been almost 5 minutes that they had reached Khushi's home to drop her and Arnav had got down from the car, and both of them were standing at the car door talking to each other.

Khushi: Wont you come in?
Arnav: Next time.. Infact.. ( he held her hands in his ).. Next time I will enter your house will be to meet your father..
Khushi (blushing hard) : Meet Dad? And?
Arnav: (smirking):And.. ask your hand ..

Khushi was so much shy that she pushed him away and dragged her bags.

Khushi: Reach safe home and call me when you are free. Bye.. Bye NK.. ( she screamed walking away from the car)

Arnav kept smiling at her as she waved him "Bye". NK pressed the Car Horn to alarm Arnav and make him get in the car again. Afterall he didnt have an entire day to keep playing their driver.

NK ( after Arnav got in the car): This is the first and last time I am receiving you and Khushi together from Airport. You guys just dont finish at all.. Keep some talks for future Nannav..
Arnav ( smiling and putting his glasses back on ): You will not understand NK.. Drive ...

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

Raizada House

Arnav got a warm welcome by his family and he knew why they looked so happy and contended today. It was not only because they were seeing him after 8 days but it was because he had returned home winning his love. They could read that on his face. Anjali hugged Arnav and immediately started looking behind him as if searching for someone.

Anjali: Khushi? where have you left her?
Arnav: I dropped her home. What is she supposed to do here?
Anjali: What do you mean by that Arnav? We are so eager to talk to her.. She left so suddenly without letting anyone know ..
Arnav: Di.. she has her family too. Her father was waiting to see her. But she will be here tomorrow. To meet you all. Especially Anshu..

He picked Anshu in arms and pinched his cheeks.

Arnav: Hey champ.. You scored well in your exams?
Anshu: Yesh.. You promised me Spider Man's dress.
Arnav: Indeed. We will shop tomorrow. happy?

Anshu was over excited to know this. He got down from Arnav's arms and ran inside to call up his friends and tell them about it.

Nani: Chotte must be tired, he should rest. We will call you downstairs when the Dinner is ready Chotte. Go..
Arnav: Thanks Nani.. I will see you all in a while.

He hurried towards the bedroom. He missed home but not as much as he was missing Khushi now. Just few minutes had passed that Arnav had settled in his room, sorting his luggage and trying to find his Shaving machine.

Arnav ( speaking to himself whole searching the bag): Where have you kept it Khushi?

Somebody knocked his door and he turned around to see who was in. It was his Jeejaji Shyam.

Shyam ( entering in): So ... Khushi packed your bags?Thats  Unbelievable!
Arnav had a weak smile again on his face but he chose to remain silent over this topic. He did not want to reveal about their newly started relationship to anyone until Khushi wanted to..

Shyam: You didnt tell anyone what happened between you and Khushi in US? I mean what have you both decided? Is this secret even for me just like the other family members?

Arnav knew he cannot hide things from his Jeejaji. Afterall he was the only man who patiently guided him all these years and helped him come out of his remorse..

Arnav: She said a YES.. (he confidently replied)

Shyam was extremely happy. He patted Arnav's shoulders and then gave him a tight hug..

Shyam: I knew this would happen.. She just needed time to realise.. I am glad you both have given this relationship another chance.. But then.. Why hide it Saale Sahab ? Why not tell the families and get this progressed?
Arnav: She needs some time.. And perhaps.. I too think its soon. I have just broke my engagement with Aliya and Khushi needs to mend her ties with everyone here.. So its better we wait..
Shyam: Ohh. This is insane for me.. But if you both think its wise.. Then I am okay. But please dont make us wait long.. We are desperate to see you both together under this roof..
Arnav: You will see that day soon Jeejaji. I promise..

The men shared another hug.

Shyam :Well.. You can now call her and check where she kept your Shaving kit.. ( he teased Arnav and then left the room)

Arnav smirked picking up his phone and was about to dial Khushi when coincidently called on his number.. He answered.

Arnav: Where is my Shaving Kit?
Khushi : Thats rude...!! I thought you would be missing me .
Arnav ( sitting next to his bag on bed): Common Khushi... I dont have to tell you how much I miss you but if you dont tell me where my shaving kit is, I will have to show this unshaved look of mine to my entire staff tomorrow.
Khushi ( chuckled): Huhh!! You are so unromantic Arnav.. You are worried of your look not me? Fine.. If thats what you want, then listen, the shaving kit is in the left pocket of your bag. I guess this has fulfilled your purpose of this call. Good night then.. Bye..

Arnav was holding his laugh realising how much frustrated Khushi was because of his unreasonable attitude.. He kept sticking to this though..

Khushi: I am keeping the phone.. ( she tried to check if he was really serious)
Arnav: You told that already.
Khushi: ( Irritated): Fine.. bye..

She disconnected the call and Arnav kissed his mobile screen which displayed her photo as the wall paper.. 

Arnav: (Looking at her photo): Sorry Khushi.. But I like seeing you so desperate to talk to me.. You have made me wait enough. Now .. its your turn.. Let me see how long you resist for this marriage to happen..

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


Next day

As promised, Khushi had come to Raizada House to meet the family. She tried being as normal as she could. She was so busy with the family that she had really no time for Arnav seperately. And not to miss, Arnav looked in a hurry to leave for work. He ensured to keep his talks with Khushi as formal as possible because finally it was she wanted to hide their relationship from others. He though could realise that Khushi was just waiting to be with him..

Anjali: We are glad that everything is settling down now for you and Arnav..
Khushi smiled and kept glancing at Arnav again and again. He was on some phone conversation .. Official one probably..

Khushi tried to isolate herself using some excuse and then walked to Arnav who was standing with his back facing her. She poked him from behind trying to get his attention. Arnav turned once, looked at her, smiled and continued talking to his client..

Khushi frowned and immediately snatched the phone from him. She even disconnected it.. Arnav was totally mad at her..

Arnav ( in anger): Khushi? What is wrong with you ? It was a very important call dammit!!
Khushi was hyper too..

Khushi: It's just been few days that we have started our relationship afresh and you are screaming at me? That too when I am not at fault? I came here for you and you are busy on calls? You didnt even give me one proper stare.. I am wearing this pretty red dress which you gifted me in US and you didnt even notice? You have changed Arnav.. Aur woh bhi itne jaldi.. ? ( she angrily asked)

Arnav fisted his palm and tried to cool her anger.

Arnav: Khushi.. I.. I am sorry.. . .That client.. He was eating my head over the phone and I vent up his anger on you unknowingly..
Khushi ( coming in front of him): You sure about that ?
Arnav: You know I never lie..
Khushi: ( touching his cheek): Why do you get so much of anger Arnav?Earlier I dont remember you even raising your voice on anyone. But these 8 long years have really bought a huge difference in you. I feel sorry when I realise its me responsible somewhere.
Arnav: Dont blame yourself. I am sure you will sort my anger issues once we are together..
Khushi chuckled and passed the phone to him..

Khushi: I think you are right.. I have to work hard on you.. Carry on with your Client calls. I will see you after that.. Meanwhile let me spend some time with Anshu..

They both passed sweet smiles for being so understanding and then left for their respective activities..

______________________________________________________________________________


Part 26

A month later

Khushi brought the tray loaded with some tea cups outside, walking slowly. Her eyes were fixed on the floor, her hands almost shivering in nervousness. The living room was still far but she could hear the voices of Anjali, Shyam, Nani talking to her father and laughing over somethin g. Suddenly her way was blocked. She raised her face and looked forward. Arnav was standing right before her smirking.

Arnav: Need any help?
Khushi: Arnav? What are you doing here?
Arnav: Kyon? Nahi aa sakta? Kitni baar call kiya tumhe Khushi.. Tumne respond nahi kiya..Kya hua hai Khushi?  (Why ? Cant I come here?.. Khushi I called you so many times.. You didnt answer.. what has happened to you Khushi?)

Khushi: Tumhe kya hua hai Arnav? Maine phone respond nahi kiya .. aur tum yahan aa gaye? Aise Zoru ke Gulam bante phiroge toh..
Arnav ( interrupted): Excuse me?
Khushi: What will the family say? Abhi shaadi nahi hui aur yeh haal hai.. Kal shaadi hojayegi tab toh aap Office bhi nahi jaayenge kya?

She was purposely teasing him and he very well knew that. He took an opportunity to tease her back.

Arnav ( stepping towards her with a smirk): Sahi kahan Khushi.. I dont think I will concentrate on work at Office.. Its better I stay back home.. Lets stay together..
Khushi nervously stepped behind. Her cheeks started glowing..
Khushi: Arnav stop teasing..
Arnav: You can tease me anytime.. I cant?

Khushi controlled her blush and slowly pushed him back with the tray..

Khushi: Let me go out Arnav.. Tea will get  cold..
Arnav: ( looking at the tea tray): Why are you shiverring? Are you nervous Khushi?

Khushi sighed and finally told him what she was feeling as of now..

Khushi: Thoda.. ( little.. )
Arnav took the tea tray from her and placed it on the table beside. She looked down feeling terribly uneasy..
Arnav:  Look at me.. (he pulled her chin up) ..
Khushi's eyes were moist..
Arnav: ( little depressed seeing her tears): Khushi? What happened?
Khushi: Arnav.. I missing mumma very much today. I havnt spent much of my childhood with her but today on such an important occassion of my life, I feel she should have been alive to encourage me, to give me strength, to teach me what I need to talk, how I need to behave when my marriage is getting fixed. Its so hard for me to think how to react today before your family..

Arnav felt bad hearing her talks. He caught both her hands in his.

Arnav: Pehle rona bund karo..
She quickly tried composing herself and looked at him.
Arnav: Khushi I would be lieing if I say I know how you feeling today. We cannot change our past but we can always work on our future.. Whatever you missed until now, I promise me and my family will give that to you. Everyone loves you Khushi.. And they will shower everything they have, on you. .Itna pyaar.. ki tum lete lete thak jaaogi.. ( So much love.. that you will get tired collecting it one day.. )

His soothing words brought a weak smile on her face..

Khushi: I didnt know you have such raw emotions hidden deep inside his heart. How easily you eased my pain Arnav.
Arnav: Aise hi Arnav Singh Raizada nahi bana .. Now go out before they call you..And haan.. My family dont prefer Ice tea..
Khushi: Ice tea? But I have made normal masala tea Arnav..

She checked the tea cups again and realised what he meant.. The tea had become very cold. There was no point serving him that tea..

Khushi: Ohh.. I will quickly make a new one..  And you .. Mr Raizada.. ( she poked his arm).. Sit outside with the family.
Arnav: Let me help you in the Kitchen..
Khushi: What? no.. .Arnav?
He didnt hear a word. He dragged her with him in the Kitchen and finally made fresh hot masala tea ready for the family. She just kept watching him while he served it in the cups..
Arnav ( holding the tea tray and passing it to her) : Now go...
Khushi took the tray smiling at him for his such sweet guestures..

Arnav: Ek minute..
Khushi: Ab kya hua?

He moved behind her and took off her dupatta.. her eyes grew wide ..

Khushi: Arnav ? Yeh kya kar raho ho tum ?
Arnav:Relax..

He quickly covered her head with the Dupatta and she understood he was just dressing her perfectly like every girl should before presenting herself before a family who were here to discuss the marriage talks.. He came before her again, admiring her beautiful face and blushing smile..

Arnav: Ab theek hai.. ( he winked at her)

She held her laugh and without any nervousness, she started walking outside to the living room. Really.. Arnav had eased off all her worries and insecurities.. She was lucky enough to have a life partner like him.. When she came out, almost everyone in the family kept admiring her.. Anjali was guessing this was definately a team work.. Khushi alone can never think so much about her dressing style..

Anjali: Chotte kahan hai?
Khushi : Uhhh.. wohh.. Di..
Anjali: Phone pe hoga.. hai naa ? (she teased Khushi and then gigled with others.. )

Khushi was so shy that they were been caught by the family so easily..

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

Few months later

It was her fourth call from the evening to Arnav but he did not answer. This was heights of ignorance.. She never expected him to be like this.. She kept looking at her watch.. The boy from the jewellery store passed her some Orange Juice.. The Raizada's had always been a regular customer to them, hence they were always treated with dignity..

Khushi: NO Thanks..

She denied the juice and kept pacing at the billing counter.

Manager: Maam.. Please check our latest designs meanwhile.. Until then Sir will be here.

Khushi was about to respond but thats when she saw Arnav rushing inside the store.. He knew she was angry on him yet he passed her a broad smile.

Arnav: Sorry baby.. The meet got extended..
Khushi passed him quick angry glares and then turned around to the Manager..

Khushi: We will see the Anklets Sinhaji.. ( she politely made her statement)
Arnav (from behind): Anklet kyon? We were going to buy a Necklace..
Khushi ( still not speaking to him): Sinhaji.. Aap inki baat mat suniye.. Anklets ka section kahan hai?
Sinha pointed them to the direction.. Khushi kept walking..

Arnav ( following her): Khushi.. Come on.. Dont do this to me.. I was stuck dammit..
Khushi stopped at the counter and started checking the Anklets which were displayed for them. She picked one ..

Arnav: Its too broad.. See something else..
Khushi: ( still ignoring him): Uhh... I want a simple one..
Store girl: Sure Maam.. Check these ones..
Khushi kept making her selection and Arnav who was sitting next to her turned to speak to the Manager.

Arnav: Its hard to impress your wife especially when she is frustrated on you. .
Manager (chuckled): True Mr Raizada.. every husband feels the same..

Khushi was listening everything and she also felt like laughing but she was very good at controlling.. Arnav had to be punished. This was not the first time he was late.. Since the time they were married, he always kept doing this.. She realises his work pressure has increased. But she was his wife, doesnt she needs his time too?

Arnav ( turning again to Khushi and whispering in her ears): Sorry kahan naa Khushi.. Dont spoil the evening..
Khushi ( angrily looking at him): Evening ? Wake up Arnav.. Its already night..  I waited for two hours here in this store.. doing nothing but texting you.. calling you.. Do you realise how difficult it is?
Arnav: I do. !! Ghar chal ke baat karein? I am kind of feeling ackward.. Everyone is watching us baby..

He tried to hold her hand but she shoved off..

Khushi: Dont you touch me. !!
Arnav: What the!! You cant stop me from doing that Khushi. .You are my wife dammit..

Khushi made her selection and then asked the lady to pack it.. She got up and hurried to the bill counter.. Before she could even gesture of making the payment herself in anger, Arnav gave his credit card .. She didnt mind him doing so.. She truly wasnt carrying much cash or cards today.. She kept walking ahead.. Arnav took the bag and followed her. She sat in the car, he didnt start the engine though..

Arnav: I wont drive until you forgive me..
Khushi: Arnav.. Stop being a kid..
Arnav: ( smiling): Yea right.. It's time to act like a father now..
Khushi again felt like laughing but she controlled..
Arnav: Pata nahi aaj nani ne mujhse kya kahan..? She wants us to help her see her grandchildren soon.
Khushi felt tickles in her stomach hearing that.

Arnav: You know what that means? ( he asked being little romantically)
Khushi: No I dont know what it means.. Drive the car Arnav.. Or else..
Arnav: Or else kya?
Khushi: I will get a cab..

she was about to get down but Arnav locked the car doors.. She turned and looked at him again..

Khushi: Yeh kya batameezi hai?
Arnav: Batameezi toh maine abhi shuru bhi nahi ki.. Khushi Kumari Gupta..
Khushi ( instantly): Singh Raizada..!! ( she added )

Both of them had smiles on their faces.. Her anger had mellowed down totally.. She fisted her fingers and hit him few times on his arm , but gently..

Khushi: You.. you always do this.. You first break my heart.. make me angry .. and then use all these foolish tactics to win me again..
Arnav : Whats my problem if you get convinced with my foolish tactics.. And by the way .. You have no rights to get angry on me.. Anytime.. Samjhi?
Khushi: Kyon? Why cant I get angry on you ?Anytime?
Arnav ( smirking): Because.. if you get angry one your husband Mrs Khushi Kumari Gupta.. Singh Raizada.. how will we fulfil Nani's wish?

She blushed and pushed him away,..

Khushi: Shut up Arnav.. We are in the car.. Drive home ..
Arnav: (getting comfortable on his seat): Okay.. ( starting the engine).. As you wish KG..!!

Yea.. He had started calling her KG again.. The same name which he addressed her with when they were in College.. Arnav and Khushi had got married almost 2 months ago and their relationship was already on track , slowly and steadily Arnav Singh Raizada was becoming that sweet and sober boy Arnav who was so much nice and lovable for everyone. Who wouldnt be like this when they have got everything in their life which they desired?  The family had already started noticing the changes in their Chotte and no wonder they were more than happy with it.

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

Few more Months later

Khushi helped Arnav to put his tie. And even doing this simple task today, she felt tired and stressed. It was noticable on her face and expressions..

Arnav: ( stopping her): Khushi.. I will do it. You sleep for some time..
Khushi: I have just woke up Arnav.. How much will I rest?
Arnav: The more you rest, the more good it will be for our baby..
Khushi: Wrong.. The more I be active, the more simpler my delivery will be.

She breathed hard finishing her task.. He straightened his tie and cupped her face..

Khushi: Arnav.. I am feeling little uneasy today.. ( she said holding her 9th month stomach.. )
Arnav became restless ..
Arnav: What? Really? Should we go to the Dr? Is it time up? But the Dr gave us next week's date..
Khushi : I know.. but. . Aaahh

She cried in pain and Arnav was 100% sure her labour was nearing.. He screamed for his Di and Nani and picked Khushi in arms. She was heavy these days for him to lift.. He carried her slowly downstairs.. Khushi still trying to bear that pain..

Anjali: Chotte? What happened to Khushi?
Arnav: Di .. Its time for her to get admitted I suppose.. I am taking her to the hospital.. Please give a call to Shashi Uncle and ask him to come there..
Anjali: Haan. I .. I will come with you ..

Nani prayed to God to give strength to Khushi and quickly made call to Shashi Gupta informing him about all this..

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

3 weeks later

Arnav was holding the baby in his arms, ensuring he doesnt wake her up.. She was a baby girl .. just 3 weeks old ...
Arnav: Khushi ? ( he called her name slowly not to wake the baby)

He swinged the baby slowly in his arms again and got up from the recliner.. Khushi meanwhile came out of the bathroom wearing the saree.. She came by the mirror and looked at herself..

Khushi: When will I reduce my weight Arnav?
Arnav: (chuckled): 62 Kgs isnt that bad. (He said looking her from top to bottom once). Why reduce it?
Khushi: You must be joking ... And by the way I am not 62 Kgs now. I am 61.5 Kgs.. Even 0.5 Kgs of difference matters for a woman..!!

Khushi came to him and took the baby in arms. Arnav made Khushi sit on the bed, while he kneeled down.. They both caressed the baby's cheeks gently.
Arnav: She resembles you.
Khushi smiled feeling proud..
Khushi: But she has your nose. Stout.!!
Arnav: Your lips..
Khushi: Your hair colour.
Arnav: Your type of chin.
Khushi: Your smile..!! Short but.. out of the world..

Arnav and Khushi shared a glance of each other and then looked again at their baby..

Arnav: I cant believe she is Ours.. You know if someone had told me , we both will unite some day, love each other again and will have a baby girl.. I would never have believed it..
Khushi: Destiny has its own way of uniting people Arnav.. I am glad that it chose you for me.. It might have took me 8 long years to realise what existed between us during our College times was Love, but it didnt take even a fraction of second for me to dissolve in your love..I might have lived 8 years without you.. but I cant live even 8 seconds now without having you beside me..
Arnav: (Wiped her tears): Shaadi hogayi... Pregnancy hogayi.. Baby bhi hogayi.. par tumhare mood swings abhi bhi waise hi hai Mrs Khushi Kumari Gupta Singh Raizada.. You know what it symbolizes? ( he teasingly asked)
Khushi: Kya?
Arnav: Aashi needs a brother.. !!

Khushi took few seconds to realise what he said..

Khushi: Besharam..

Both shared a hearty laugh and kept pouring love on their newly born baby.. !!

The END!!