When You Came Into My Life

Update- 1: Without You Here

Rhyl, England

The waves are crashing on the shore, breaking into sprays of foam. Three seagulls rushed the peaceful lane beneath them. The sky was still pinkish and the neat houses seemed quiet. The paper delivery boy was riding across the dusty street on his red bicycle.

The scene shifted to the small wooden gate. Ahead was a moderate, trendy villa, a duplex. It had a name plate at the side of the door saying- ‘Ryan Ville # 30, Larch Drive, Rhyl, Clwyd, LL18 3TA’. The designed dark wood door opened to a large sparkling hall. At the right side was a staircase and the left side gave access the dining area and living hall.

The Dining Area was separated by a half wall. There was a refrigerator with little notes stuck with pieces of tape, a four chaired dining table and a small television set. The walls were of cream and cherry with one side having a window overlooking their messy backyard. One side opened up to the top kitchen with gleaming working tables and utensils.

The Living hall was big and fashionably decorated with couches and sofa sets of brown and yellow. There was a large LED TV set and a glass pillar to have some decorating pieces. At one side was a huge cabinet for books and DVDs. The red brick walls bore tapestries and portraits and were bathed with early autumn sunlight.

On another side opened up an area decorated with flowers. It was the puja room in which Devi Maya’s Idol sat on the red platform.

Upstairs led to a corridor still lighted with golden lights. The first door opened to a room with light yellow walls to go with the curtains drawn across the balcony. The floor was of cheery light pink tiles. There were two chairs with a central table, a blue rocking chair, a black cabinet cum dressing table and a working table. At the central of the room was a queen sized bed with had its red sheets messed, saying probably this bed was slept in a while ago. The brown door at the corner was closed and a sound of shower was issuing.

The second door led to a room with blue and white striped walls. The floor was of a red rug. Toy cars and chocolate wrappers lay on the ground but the overview was neat. There was a wooden horse right beside a cloth stand full of little jeans and T-shirts. A reading table was set underneath a crowd of books and copies. The bedside table had a dimly lit lamp and beside was a bed of grey sheets and blanket. By the looks, it seemed a little figure lay curved, covered from top to bottom under the warm grey duvet.

Mumbai, India

The view, amazing, was that of ‘KH Palace’. It was considered one of India’s grand pieces of Architecture. The huge, five storied complex was a wonder. Crafted with granite and white marble each level had a gorgeous garden full of red roses. The terrace stood out with little ornamental plants at the half railing and a comfy swing at one side. The balcony was tiled of white. The entrance was a heavily crafted wood worked stone door. Beside the porch an external elevator was to be spotted.

The Living hall was huge with stone statues and portraits. The whole place was furnished with fine stone work holding a few sofa sets of black and crimson. The posh lighting and the LED set ahead above a cabinet full of unused DVDs completed the view of a wealthy man’s taste.

The Dining area was huge and passage like. It had a long marble table with a polished surface and ten chairs, 9 of them which mostly remained unused. On one side opened the door to the kitchen, a neat and tidy place with cupboards, cabinets and a four burner in the central.

At the corner was a small door which led to another space, this one being the servants’ room.

The marble stone steps led to level one which was the study. With hundreds of shelves and thousand of books the walls were of un-penetrable, bulletproof glass, now closed with brown curtains.

The second floor was a gallery of endless family pictures all in smiling faces and bright colors. There were some couches to sit on and a huge glass cabinet showing off some certificates and trophies.

The third floor was the self conducted gym fully equipped with expensive exercise machines of all kinds. Not that the owner was much of a muscle worker these days.

The fourth level was the Master’s bedroom. The worker, an old man in his 60s was working on straightening the grey sheets of the king sized double bed. The wine red walls bore framed photographs, most of them faded with oldness. A mirror stood at on corner of the massive room, a shelve lining the corner, holding gels and hairbrushes. An ash recliner stood a little away from his working table beneath the red rug. A cloth stand stood near the sliding to the terrace, waistcoats thrown carelessly over it’s hands.

The final level as one came up the stairs would have a view of a blue swimming pool of calm water beneath the glass ceiling. Now the afternoon sunlight pierced through the calm waters.

Rhyl

8: 30 (UK Time)

Aryan dear, wake up sweetheart.

Little 9 years old Aryan heard his mom calling out to him from under his ‘blanky’. He mumbled-

Mom, five minutes please..pretty please!

He heard his mother’s calm voice reply-

Now you wouldn’t want to be late for first day of school do you?

Aryan reluctantly pulled the duvet off his head to find his beautiful mother, Khushi Kumari Gupta, smiling down at him.

Mumbai

Get OUT!

The man scuttled out of the glass cabin frightened and upset. He was not like this, his boss. He had been cold but not cruel until since 9 years ago it seemed. Almost a decade back. Now he fired employees as easily as eating a piece of pie, maybe thrice a day or more than that.

Rajesh just had been fired and just because he had been three minutes late in bringing in the file.

His now ex-boss was none other than the frightening mighty Arnav Singh Raizada, the great business tycoon.

**

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Update- 2: Without You Here

RV (Ryan Ville)

The woman looked halfway through her thirties with long straight brownish hair down her back. She was still slim, tall and slender, which made perfect sense when her English friends told her she was perfectly eligible for dating. And now, she was almost drifting in her ankle length pink dress with a red scarf around her swan like neck. Her face was beautiful with large hazel eyes, long eyelashes and skin as white as butter cream. She now looked down at her baby boy, Aryan Singh Gupta, her pink lips curving into a smile at his sleepy yawn, trying to push away the fact he perfectly resembled his father.

Aryan had his head with black tousled hair above his adorable dark brown eyes with handsome eyelashes. He had a cute red nose with a set of slightly parted lips set firmly against his facial structure. He scrambled down his bed stumbling towards his washroom door.

Khushi lovingly called out a ‘Good Morning’ before heading downstairs to set down Aryan’s Cornflakes. As she came into the kitchen her answering machine beeped and Khushi jabbed at the green button. A cheery voice called out-

Good Morning Khushi!

Khushi took the newspaper flung through the window and replied-

Good Morning NK Bhai. Where are you?

NK: On my way. Reach within 20 minutes. Did you want some groceries?

Khushi: Oh no. That’s ok. I have a half day shift today and will go out with Aryan when he returns from school.

NK: Oh ok. I will join you two at evening. Bye.

Khushi: Bye.

Khushi put the receiver down wondering what if it would be her Arnavji if she would speak to now. She felt the consistent loneliness engulf her among the quietness as she busied herself with the stove.

Mumbai

Can’t you get the thing right DAMNIT!

Arnav Singh Raizada was one of the most intimidating men alive. With a huge temper and seeming pride he was a man of late thirties. His arrogant features- furrowed brows above enraged brown eyes with sweeping eyelashes and his nose straight and prominent and his tight lips set firmly against his high cheekbones- were studied by many girls, but as if the guy gave them a second thought. He was hard-working and intelligent, sharp eyes and pricky ears. He was also the founder and owner of the one of the most successive MNC, the AR Designs.

He stood up from his arm chair and pierced the man in front of him with a steely look. He barked-

Give it to me!

The man, he now recognized was Nishant, one of his older employees who were remaining to get fired. Nishant promptly handed over the black file to Arnav who snatched it away and strode over to his chair. As Nishant exited the director’s cabin he sadly stole a glance at his unfeeling boss who had his back turned on him.

Arnav was only a little short of six inches with tight muscles under the rough fabric of his black Armani suit. He was wearing a white shirt underneath with his black tie standing against his broad chest. He angrily clenched the file in his hand and sat back down on his spacious chair hating Nishant, hating himself and hating life itself. He looked at the rectangular photo frame set on his white table. It showed two women, two women still, even in death, holding the most importance in his life.

Life and Love, both had betrayed him.

** 10 years earlier**

Delhi, India

GH

The one floored house was nicely set with a small yard among other housings. Outside a dirty name plate read in Hindi ‘Gupta Ghar’ (Gupta House). The house, firstly a porch with steps, opened up in a small living room cum dinning. It was homey with light furnishing of a three couched sofa set, a TV set, a cabinet, a green refrigerator, a wooden four chaired dining table and some family photographs on the light brown walls. In addition to every traditional Hindu house there was a red decorated platform for puja. The place opened into another four rooms.

Khushi Kumari Gupta and her elder sister, Payal Suma Gupta’s room was colored in a merry shade of yellow with some photographs and a few half-naked Salman Khan posters. In the middle of the stone floor sat a four sided poster bed, neatly done with blue and white sheets. There was a cabinet and a brown dressing table just beside it containing the average- set of combs, a perfume or two and two sets of drawers. On the bedside table sat a Devi Maya’s Idol. There was a window looking over to the road and the small door to the washroom.

The second one opened to Buaji’s room. It was done with a light brown color with a clock ticking. The bed was made in light green sheets with similar curtains drawn across a window. A cabinet and two rickety chairs completed the view of Madhumati Gupta’s room.

The third one was the standard white room with a big family photograph of five smiling faces. The white carpeted floor had a large old wood bed at the center. There was a big safe and a small mirror with some shelves. This was the room of Khushi and Payal’s parents’, the still very much in love couple, Shashi Gupta and Mrs. Garima Gupta.

The last and final one opened up to a gleaming kitchen, with a two sided stove and a big sink for washing. A small window at the side looked into their neighbor’s property.

RM

Birds were twittering as the enormous compound came into view. The green carpeted steps led to a large fashioned door. The entrance showed a wide hallway with draperies.

The living hall was graciously decorated with show pieces and almond brown couches and sofas with a flat screen LED TV under which a large collection of DVDs were piled neatly.

The right side had the glinting dining area with a long table of 10 chairs, the marble surface clean and neat with a few jugs and a bowl of fruits. The entrance of the kitchen opened up to a large room with a four burner in the middle and shining work tables and cupboards all around. A small door opened to the servant’s space. The dining hall was directly in front the mandir place which was a small staged area decorated with flowers of red, orange and yellow with Devi Maya’s idol in a small red platform.

The view of the staircase was blocked by glass walls and when reached on top of the flight onto the broad corridor. Opening up the first of the doors the way led to the head of the family’s room. It was a plain room with soft yellow wall paper and a big portrait hung behind the dark brown bed. The portrait showed 5 smiling faces. The room had a closet with a attached mirror and a side table with some medicines.

The door to the second opened up. The room was a faint glow of golden with a balcony attached to the back of the room, an attached closet cum dressing table. The rocking chair and a two sitting tea table were set on the tiled floor. This belonged to the romantic couple of the household, Jeet and Anjali Sharma.

The third door opened to Akash Singh Raizada’s room. This room was a neat one. Not a thing was out of place. The room was light blue with white strips. The brown almira was at the far end of the room. Then came the dressing table with a big mirror and gents deodorants and gels all lined up. There was a handstand with a few coats and an all-nighter. The reading table was full of large volumes of books all arranged in apple-pie-order. The recliner was of navy blue velvet matching the bed-sheets. A pair of glasses was set on the side table. The walls had family photos all around. A light, constant breathing broke the silence.

Then came the last room, the junior master of the house, Arnav Singh Raizada’s den. The room was modestly neat with a towel hanging over the grey recliner. The walls were a blend of brick-stone tiles and the deepest shade of brown and red those were covered with photos. The elegant wardrobe stood, beside the opening of the room and a laptop bag hung from the handstand. A desk with a few books and notes were sitting on the smooth carpet. A king sized bed was laid in the middle of the room.

GH

Khushi! Khushi wake up!

Jiji! 5 minutes, please!

Oh yeah, last time you said that you woke up half an hour later.

Khushi reluctantly opened her eyes as she felt the warmth of her blanket being seized away from her. She stifled her yawn and stared at her sister sleepily.

Payal was 27 years old, 2 years older than Khushi. She was very pretty with her long black hair in one single braid down her side. She was wearing a pale blue salwar kameez.

Payal said-

Now what are you seeing? Get up! You don’t want to be late for your interview do you?

Khushi’s world crashed upon her as she remembered today’s significance. It was her interview, for the job at AR Designs! Whoopee, she was going to meet the director of AR, the man she idolized, Mr. Arnav Singh Raizada and even better get an opportunity to work with him!

Khushi quickly jumped out of bed wearing a cream colored suite, her messy hair flowing behind her as she rushed to the washroom shouting-

Good Morning Jiji!

RM

Chote! Come down for breakfast!

Coming Di!

A very beautiful lady, in her late thirties came, floating gracefully into the living hall. She was tall with long black hair falling on her back and coming down her shoulders. She was fair with a radiant face, her black eyes dancing as she smiled and handed the cup of tea to her husband.

Jeet Sharma, 41, returned the smile of his loving wife. He was a family guy with young merry eyes and an intelligent head full of black hair. He tugged at her purple saree, gesturing her to sit down. But she just smiled and touching his cheeks affectionately she straightened and again called-

Chote!

Arnav appeared to be in a hurry, a young gentleman of 30, in three piece grey suit and he called out-

Good Morning Di, Hello Jijaji! Sorry Di. Got to go. Will have breakfast at the office.

Anjali indignantly opened her mouth but her younger brother said, turning to Jeet-

Where is Akash?

Jeet: Gone out seconds ago. Said he had an early meeting.

Arnav frowned and said aloud-

He had no meetings. Not that I know of. Anyways, bye!

With that he rushed out with his car keys in hand.

**

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Update-3: Everything Yet Nothing

The building was one of the tallest on the busy Delhi roads. It was a towering one completely done with glass. It had 22 floors and at the top written in metal cubes formed the letters ‘AR Designs’.

Good morning. What can I help you with?

The lady behind the desk was dark and tall with her hair in a long sleek ponytail. She smiled showing a perfect set of white teeth, her purple eyes having a young glow in them.

Khushi wore a simple pink suite, her veil (dupatta) pinned up on one side. Her long hair was tied at the nape of her neck with the clutcher. She brightly returned the smile and said-

I am here for my interview DF Department Manager. Please check for Khushi Kumari Gupta.

Khushi Kumari Gupta.

Khushi spun around at the direction of the amused voice. She, for the first time in her life, came face to face with Arnav Singh Raizada. Khushi stared, unbelieving at the man in front of her.

Arnav heard Khushi’s voice the first thing when he had entered the office. She spoke rhythmically sounding professional and mature and the same time. The name registered into his brain as he remembered the fantastic designs he had been shown last night. As she turned to face him Arnav had been caught on how attractive she was. He pushed the thought away.

So this is the great ASR, Khushi thought. She broke into a smile and extending her hand she said formally-

Arnav Singh Raizada, if I am not very much mistaken.

Arnav took her hand and clasping her little subtle ones in his own big ones she said-

Yes. And of course you’re here for an interview Ms. Gupta.

Khushi was genuinely surprised. Rich men were supposed to be snobbish and rude. She was proven wrong of course. Arnav said-

Why don’t you join me at the cabin, I have a free morning today. I checked your qualification details and samples last night. And by the looks of it, quite frankly, I will like to appoint you as AR’s new Head of Designs and Fashion.

Khushi: Uh..Ok..

**

Aryan came down in his school uniform- red cardigan with a white shirt underneath and a red and blue diagonal stripped tie. He, as usual and so much like his father, wore a pair of polished black shoes. He smiled seeing his mother.

His mother was everything and the only thing he had. He never was interested in making any friends at school. He always liked to sit quietly and read a book or recite poems to himself. But there was another person of course- Nunkle- short for NK Uncle. NK hated to be called an uncle so he and Aryan made up the name Nunkle. They were best buddies.

Khushi: Aryan, sweetie, are you all ready?

Aryan: Yes Mom.

Khushi planted a kiss on his cheeks and he ran to the kitchen counter to have his breakfast. Khushi moved about, slipping Aryan’s water pot into his batman school bag. Then she went and sat across Aryan and munched on a toast, talking to him.

10 minutes later Khushi was driving in her Bluebird with Aryan at her side, quietly looking out of the window. Khushi knew better not to disturb Aryan while he was in deep thoughts. Instead she pushed a rectangular smooth surface beside the stirring wheel. The surface opened up to reveal a small space. Inside was a photograph, a man who was looking intently at her, smiling slightly. He was lean and strong with his handsome features staring at her. Khushi smiled as stole glances while driving, a photo of the Arnav she had fallen in love with years ago.

Mumbai

Arnav had just come out of a meeting, exhausted. The deal was up for none other than the Singhanias’. Hopefully he would get it finalized by the next few days. He pulled his laptop forward and started tapping monotonously.

Arnav, these days, could only work. He built an empire around him as well as a strong wall through which even life couldn’t penetrate. He turned into a body without a soul. The day Khushi and Anjali had died they had taken Arnav along with them.

**

The sound proof glass cabin had unnoticeable windows cut into. There were shelves all around bearing past achievements of AR. It was modernly furnished with a white top black table, three armchairs, the head one bigger and comfortable than the other two and a brown couch.

Arnav was behind his desk pulling open and rummaging some drawers when Khushi entered. Upon spotting Khushi standing at the doorway he said-

Come in please.

Khushi smiled before taking a seat in front of Arnav. She observed his figure in its hunching position, his muscles tightening as he worked on bringing some files out. He finally straightened and sat down in his seat, facing Khushi. He said-

So Ms. Gupta, what can you tell me about yourself?

For the next 20 minutes Khushi talked continuously about her interest and background and Arnav listened to her eagerly.

The girl has potentials, AR does need some like her, Arnav thought.

They talked a bit more, now and then one of them laughing out loud.

Arnav: So Ms. Gupta, I will have someone send you your appointment letter later this day.

Khushi: Thank you Sir. It means a lot to me.

Arnav: And you mean a lot to AR. So that is fair and square.

They both laughed and Khushi stood up. So did Arnav. He extended his arm saying-

I will see you next week then.

Khushi shook his hand briefly saying-

I will be looking forward on being AR’s DF Department manager, Sir.

Khushi reached the door when Arnav called out-

Ms. Gupta.

Khushi turned and Arnav resumed-

I would rather you call me Arnav.

Khushi just smiled her acknowledgment and descended the grey carpeted steps. I will be actually working with ASR! Can’t believe it! She thought, Nice fellow too.

Arnav smiled to himself slowly walking towards his desk. I like this Ms. Gupta. What was.. yes.. Khushi. Nice name and a nice woman too.

Khushi was just exiting the office when a gust of wind hit her in the face. She turned and looked up to find a figure staring down at her from the Director’s cabin. She couldn’t help but feel a little flustered.

**

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Update-4: Everything Yet Nothing

At first glance he could be mistaken for an Englishmen. With short light brown hair and creamy complexion the 32 year old man was no one but Nand Kishore Raizada, self preferred name being NK. His eyes were the lightest of brown with a slightly curved nose and a set of smiling lips. He was dressed in chinos and a t-shirt and he was leaning on the front of his black Nissan GT-R. He saw the duo approaching and straightened.

Nunkle!

Aryan ran up ahead and pounced on him. NK laughed and said-

Hey Little Man! What’s up?

As they were talking excitedly Khushi caught up with them after greeting some of ladies. She smiled, relieved and hugged NK. She said-

At last you are here. I thought your trip to Australia will be a permanent stay.

NK: With you and little man alone here? Never! (turning to Aryan) Kid, I can’t wait to see your face when you find out all the chocolates I brought for you!

Aryan’s face lightened up and he said-

Can’t wait till I get home today. Won’t you stay over at our place tonight?

NK smiled-

Of course. I might stay in for a few nights before the week days end. Then we three can go up to my place and your Mummy (glancing at Khushi) can fix up my wreck of a house.

Khushi: In your dreams NK!

NK: Why Khushi? You seem all lost without me.

Khushi: You’re nothing but a bad influence (sticking her tongue out) Anyway, you must be tired from the journey.

NK nodded and said-

Severe jet lag. But too much grossed out to spend the night at the stinking chateau of mine.

NK yawned widely and the school bell went off. The three, along with the others entered the big iron gates of Bryn Hedydd School for the starting of the year feat.

**

Good Morning!

Arnav looked up to find the face that had haunted him in his dreams for the past weeks smile back at him. He cleared his throat and said-

Good Morning Khushi! So you ready for work?

Khushi was wearing a blue suit, her long hair raised up in a bun. Arnav was wearing a grey suite with a black shirt and tie underneath.

Khushi found the man before her interesting, just the person, not the celeb she had known. Unlike most men, he seemed to always come up with something to say and be nice and pro about it.

Khushi’s place was a glass cabin, right across Arnav’s. It had a nameplate on the side wall reading ‘Ms. Khushi Kumari Gupta – DF Department Manager’. Her room was air conditioned and brightly lit. The desk was a big black one, unlike Arnav’s having a crimson top. The head chair was a black one, comfortable and large. Two seats sat ahead on the tiled floor. A red velvet couch was set up against one of the walls. Files of black, red, blue and green, brimming with papers were arranged neatly on the polished side tables.

Quite hard to believe all this place is mine.

Arnav was showing Khushi around her room, explaining her routine work. As he talked he looked at Khushi from the corner of his eyes noticing the variations of her amused expressions. He smiled to himself. Khushi said-

I guess I will be working from now then.

Arnav: Yes, and if you need something and I am not present just dial 100 from this phone and you can get the reception or my secretary.

Khushi smiled and said-

That should be fine.

Arnav frowned-

Khushi, I told you not to use ‘sir’ for addressing me. But now you’ve stopped calling me altogether.

Khushi looked down, fidgeting with her veil and after a few moments spoke-

**

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Update- 5: Darkened Soul

Arnav entered his bedroom, loosening his tie while walking, spent and worn out, towards a little red and orange platform. The platform was brightly lit with golden lights, their source unknown. Inside sat Devi Maya’s idol draped in red cloth.

Arnav just closed his eyes and brought his hands together, joining them beneath his chin, as if in prayer.

After a few minutes of silence Arnav slowly opened his eyes and then strode away to the washroom, stopping short to get rid of his black coat and waistcoat and dump them on the bed.

**

Arnavji.

Khushi’s voice was soft and sounded musical as she uttered his name. She looked up cautiously to meet Arnav’s eyes, which were cringed up with a frown. He said-

Arnavji? Seriously? That’s so 90s!

Khushi laughed. She said-

As long as it makes you annoyed I will keep calling you Arnavji.

She slightly tilted her head and smiled, her soft hazel eyes twinkling. Arnav’s mind struck on the beauty of her eyes but he merely shrugged and said-

Whatever suits you Ms. Gupta.

Then with a mock air of pride he stepped out of her cabin. Smiling to herself Khushi sat down to work.

**

Arnav came out, half naked with a towel draped around his waist and his wet hair dripping water over his jutted muscles. He snatched the towel laid across his recliner drying himself vigorously.

All the while he thought about her. Khushi and him. Their two months of happy married life. Two months when he came home Khushi served him water, not the servants. Two months when in the morning Khushi would hand over his briefcase. Two months of waking up in the bed with Khushi in his arms, sleeping. Two months when Khushi helped him with his tie and coat, choosing his attire for the day. Nine years had passed since then but somehow to Arnav it felt as if just last week.

He still didn’t forget the effect she had on him. Her touch, her moves, her captivating eyes- all seemed just a step away. He still remembered the small things she did to please him, to bring a smile on his face, the effort she made just to put him off stress. How he longed for her in these lonely nights.

He donned on a white shirt and rolled up the sleeves up to his elbows. Then he pulled on a black cotton trouser and took off his towel. He walked up to the right side of his huge room where illuminated with a soft golden light was the photograph of an women wearing a sindoor and a mangalsutra smiling whole heartedly at Arnav. The photo frame was curved into bronze.

Arnav spoke quietly, his voice broken but soft-

Hey sweetheart, I miss you dear. Today was just the same as usual. Yelled at people, fired one of them and ended up shattering one of the glass windows of the cabin. I know, I know, you want me to re appoint the man I fired but who cares. I have an important deal with the Singhanias tomorrow. Please sweetie, pray for your Devi Maya for the deal.

He paused, his lips slightly curved in a smile. He said-

I am going to bed now. Love you Khushi.

Arnav slowly turned around and left. Khushi Singh Raizada, his Khushi, kept on smiling in the still photo taken from the evening he had proposed her to marriage.

**

A plump woman of 70s, Madhumati Gupta seemed rather intimidating. She had a slightly smudged nose, narrow eyes and pursed lips. She was wearing a peach colored dress with a large veil draped over her front.

She was currently glowering down at her niece, Khushi. She said-

Parmeshwari, where were you?! Not answering the phone calls and your stupid office says you’ve already gone out. What is this?!

Khushi: O ho Buaji! Let me enter the house first then you can rave-

Madhumati caught Khushi by the ear and she gave a yell. Khushi shouted-

Leave Buaji! Please! Ouch!

Madhumati: Sankadevi!

Khushi stuck out her tongue as soon as her aunt released her ear. Khushi did love teasing her. She quickly entered the house and then spotted her parents coming over to her.

Oh no, she thought, how was she supposed to tell them that her crazy boss dragged her to a late meeting on her very first day?

**

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Update-6: Darkened Soul

**

Good morning Ms. Gupta.

Khushi looked up from a file, frowning slightly. She replied-

Good morning Arnavji.

Arnav took a chair in front of her and said-

Khushi, you are supposed to greet me when you enter the office, not the other way round.

Khushi retorted-

Then why are you here?

Arnav: Something bothering you?

Khushi forced a smile and said-

Nothing at all. Now if you excuse me, I have to work.

Arnav: You’re excused.

Khushi did not smile as she looked down to the files again. Not hearing Arnav shifting from his chair she said, her eyes transfixed on the paper-

I thought I was being excused.

Khushi looked up and Arnav asked in all seriousness-

What is it?

Khushi: Family matter.

Arnav abruptly stood up but Khushi quickly said-

I have no problem in telling you but you hardly can help. So yeah.

Arnav smirked and said-

Try me.

For the next 10 minutes Khushi narrated how she accidentally saw a message from her elder sister’s cell, how the text appeared to be romantic and how her Jiji defiantly denied on having a boyfriend when confronted by Khushi earlier this morning. Khushi finished her story by saying-

And also I found that her boy friend’s name is Akash.

Arnav: What the?! Akash you say?

Khushi frowned and said-

And the reason for your reaction is?

Arnav: O Khushi! Does anything ring a bell? Akash, my brother, your second boss. The man you met yesterday at the meeting and ended up calling Akashji.

Khushi: Akashji? No ways. Jiji would have known if I worked for her boyfriend.

Arnav: And why will your Jiji know that?

Khushi: Obvious! Because they are in love and share everything with each other.

Arnav rolled his eyes when Khushi said-

It’s just a coincidence. Akashji is good enough to share things like that with you, unlike Jiji!

Khushi folded her arms and looked sulky again. Arnav said-

No it’s not, I think it’s not.

Khushi: Why are you so hell bent on framing your brother for having a girlfriend?

Arnav: Because Khushi, Akash is just behaving weirdly for a last couple of months. Going out for an overtime morning jog on weekends, arriving office late, leaving office early and even sometimes going out in lunch time.

Khushi became thoughtful. Then she said-

Can be that he has a girlfriend but come on who said she needs to be my Payal Jiji!

Arnav got up from his chair and said-

Well, put on your thinking cap and think wisely.

He added when he reached the door-

That is, if you got any brains.

Khushi opened her mouth furiously but Arnav walked out smoothly. Khushi slumped back in her chair and suddenly a smile rose to her lips. My Payal Jiji in love! How wonderful!

**

Arnav lay down on his back and looked around at the vacant left side of his bed. Back at RM, when they were a happy family Khushi always took the left side, but then as the night progressed she snuggled up closer to Arnav, completely lying on top of him, her face buried in Arnav’s chest.

Arnav heaved a sigh and sat up on his bed. As always he knew he will find himself sleeping beside the poolside, on the recliner, among his plants. That was the only place that he would feel comfortable in sleeping.

Forlorn, Arnav climbed the one flight of staircase and looking at the dark calm waters he flopped down on the blue couch and kept looking at the millions of stars ahead in the night sky, a tear escaping his eye as he drifted off to sleep.

**

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Update-7: Disputes

NK was a moderately living man. He owned a restaurant with Khushi and had a brownstone block of his own. He lived in one of the biggest apartments in his building and rented away the other 13.

NK’s apartment had a Living room and Dining space attached with the open English kitchen. Two bedrooms with attached bath completed his home.

His Living room had two couches and some squashy cushions. A LED TV set with the Home theatre blaring Metallica songs most the time. The brown carpet had crackers spilled all over it with some empty coke cans. In Khushi’s eyes, it wasn’t the prettiest sight.

His bedroom was more of a spider’s web with his cabinet doors hanging open and dumped clothes strewn all over the floor. The brown sheets on the bed were muddled, the curtains drawn and dirty socks dangling from the stand beside the door. A piece of stinking pizza lay among a heap of books.

The spare room looked like though it hasn’t been unlocked for years with golden dust settling in every inch, though it was only last month Khushi and Aryan had come over to stay.

As for now when he unlocked the door and entered his Living space with the mom and Son duo a strong smell of rotten vegetables reached his nose.

Aryan: Nunkle! That smell is so… (squeezed his nose)

Khushi completed-

Disgusting, NK associated rotten cabbages.

NK laughed nervously and muttered-

Wait till you see the spare room you are sharing with your son.

**

Arnavji!

Arnav was scanning through a file when a high pitched voice sounded. He looked up to see Khushi standing with her hair in a bun, wearing a white and yellow suite with her veil neatly hugging her neck. She had a pair of tiny silver earrings.

Khushi looked a moment at her boss before quickly glancing away. In the TV and over the net and papers he did not look half as handsome as he really was. Dressed in total black today, Khushi couldn’t but think he was very good looking.

Arnav: Come in Khushi, just finalized the samples you passed on last evening.

Khushi: And just now I got informed that we have to go out for a meeting at 5.

Arnav: Quite true. A deal with the wealthy Vadhera brothers.

Khushi: Vadhera? That somehow sounds..umm..anyways I had a brainwave! (smiling)

Arnav mocked-

Surprise.

Khushi twisted her mouth and said-

I have a plan to get Akashji blurt out that he’s in love with my sister.

They are just in a relationship. Not in love!

Mr. Raizada, just because it’s beyond you doesn’t mean people around you can’t fall in love.

Arnav smirked and said-

So you’re discussing love with your boss now?

Khushi instantly looked away, reddening. Arnav raised a teasing eyebrow at her.

**

NK, what’s this!?

Khushi was wrinkling her nose holding a dirty, stinky black sock between the tips of her fingers. They were cleaning out NK’s bedroom, Khushi and NK, or rather only Khushi. NK was sipping a coke lying on the dusty carpet. He lazily replied-

If you aren’t blind you should be seeing that you’re holding one of my fav black socks.

Khushi: Something which looks like a piece of crap. Oh NK! Grow up!

NK: What! I am 32 okay?

Khushi: Then act like one!

Suddenly the two heard Aryan’s shout of delight. Then running feet and the little guy skidded into the room, his arms full of colorful packets. He exclaimed, running to hug NK-

Nunkle! You’re the best! I can’t believe you brought this all for me!

NK: All for you Little man!

NK started tickling Aryan causing to spill out the chocolate boxes from Aryan’s arms to the ground. But the duo laughed away, NK tickling Aryan while he laughed loudly, trying to fight him off. Khushi smiled at them resuming her work.

**

Akashji, here’s the file you wanted.

Akash’s cabin was similar of that of Arnav’s, only the modern furnishings in a brighter shade of color, He was wearing a crown suite with a white shirt underneath. He was taller than Arnav, broad shouldered and long limbs with a kind face and a nervous pair of black eyes behind his rimless brown glasses.

Akash looked up and saw Khushi. He liked that girl. Joyful and lively, he thought, what was her name again..ohh..Khushi..Khushiji. He stood up and taking the file he said-

You could have sent it with Aman. No need for you to walk around. You are THE DF manager.

Khushi laughed lightly throwing her head back and said-

It was fine. Really, I didn’t have a problem.

Of course you wouldn’t, would you now, Ms Gupta?

A cold voice drawled as Khushi spun around to face her boss, Arnav Singh Raizada. He continued coolly-

You like to flirt with men don’t you? First with me and now with my brother. Tut tut. Not happen-

Akash was taken aback by his elder brother’s attitude. He was going to intervene when Khushi said, maintaining equal coldness-

Mind your words Mr. Raizada. Unlike you I don’t show off to everyone that I find in my way.

Arnav: Really. Well, don’t you have an elder sister? No wonder where you learnt your flirting fr-

Khushi: Watch it now! You’ve no rights speaking like that. Just to inform you my sister (glancing at Akash) Payal Samya Gupta is one of the most naïve women in the world.

Akash was shocked. Payal Samya Gupta was exactly his girlfriend’s name. Then it hit him. Khushi Kumari GUPTA. GUPTA! They are sisters! He was going to say when Arnav turned his lip and replied-

Oh really? Somehow I doubt that (glancing at a frozen Akash)

Khushi: You do? Listen to this then, just last night my Payal Jiji was saying that she cannot fall in love herself and will only marry by our parents’ choice and fall in love with her husband!

Akash erupted-

What Payal said that?! NO! She couldn’t have! I love her and she loves me!

Then silence settled upon the room and then abruptly Khushi burst into giggles. Arnav grinned widely striding over and giving a thump on his back and said-

Just acting Akash.

Khushi controlled her laughter and said-

Don’t worry, my Jiji loves you too. Just wanted to find out if you were her boyfriend after all.

A relief swept through Akash and he slumped back in his chair. Suddenly Arnav stopped smiling looking at Khushi. Khushi frowned and then her face lit up with an ear to ear grin. She said-

Devi Maya! I forgot that I won! Haha Mr. Arnav Singh Raizada, what were you telling me, my plan was rubbish and Akashji won’t tell us anything. Now quickly eat your words and get ready for your payment!

Khushi smiled wickedly and a glum Arnav.

**

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Update- 8: Disputes

Mom.

Yes sweetheart?

Will you tell me a story, please?

Khushi and Aryan were in NK’s spare room, under the red blanket. Khushi wore her cream colored sleeping suite while Aryan was in his long blue pjs and night shirt. NK had gone to deal with the police after a poor attempt of theft at the restaurant. He was on his way home.

Khushi smiled, kissing Aryan’s cheek-

Of course sweetie. Which story you want to listen to?

The one where the princess loses her prince.

Khushi sighed, said-

Aryan, why do you want to hear that story all over again and again?

Aryan: Mom, the story suits our life. Maybe that’s why.

Khushi forced a smile and began telling the story of her Arnavji and herself, only naming the characters as Romeo and Juliet.

After an half an hour Khushi finished speaking, tears stinging her eyes. Aryan held her hand and said-

This is a story of you and dad right?

Khushi did not reply. She didn’t have the courage to.

Aryan pressed-

Come on mom, you can’t keep me in the dark forever.

No reply, his mother just stared blankly at the opposite wall.

Aryan: Fine. Don’t tell me. I am going to use the loo.

Aryan scrambled down from the bed when Khushi quietly spoke-

I left your dad because I loved him. (Khushi looked up) And yes the story is somehow the story of me and your dad.

For the last 3 years Aryan had been persistent on questions about Arnav. And now he knew the fact that his mother had left his father. As to why it all summed up to because his mother loved her husband but really he had no idea about what had happened.

A tear escaped Khushi’s eye. Aryan came running and embraced his mother. Khushi threw her arms around her son, crying soundly.

**

I give you two options Arnavji. Either say, keeping your brother as a witness, that you, from now on, believe in love or you have to stand in front the whole staff saying that you apologize for the crime of calling me a stupid.

Akash stifled a laugh and Arnav threw him a dirty look before setting his gaze on Khushi. He said loudly-

I will do none.

Khushi opened her mouth furiously. Arnav just stared at her with almost monotonous eyes. She said-

You can’t do nothing!

Arnav looked genuinely surprised-

Excuse me? I, Arnav Singh Raizada, can do anything I want to.

But I helped you!

How so?

I devised this successful plan.

Why did you?

Because it is about my sister and your bother!

Did I ask you to?

No!

Arnav smirked. He said-

See, that all comes down to one point. I AM NOT CHEATING. We were in this together. If you have a normal sense of humor that you can give me a hi-5.

Arnav came towards Khushi and held out his palm. However, furious, Khushi turned on her heels and walked out of the room.

Both men laughed.

**

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Update-9: Knowing You

The small wooden table had dinner laid on it- tatws popty , bara birth and faggots. The room was lightened dimly with the setting sun sending some last glow through the yellow curtains. Khushi was sitting quietly while NK served her.

They were eating when NK asked-

You okay Khushi?

Khushi: Could have been better.

The rest of the meal went with sounds of spoons, knives and forks.

**

The rest of the week passed smoothly. For Arnav it was packed with meeting and business calls while Khushi kept out of her boss’s way in every way possible and to be engrossed in designing and the huge stacks of files. A hectic weekend came with family time and Khushi’s case, preparing for her friend’s marriage and then went. Sunday was a bright morning of mid July.

Khushi wore her hair in a long high ponytail and for a change wore a long crimson with a top with sleeves down to her elbows.

You look different.

Khushi recognized the rough voice immediately and muttered-

No, not you, not in the early morning please Devi Maya!

She slowly peeked at the shadow covering her, yes it was his virile structure! She looked in front of her, tight muscles were glaring from beneath his blue shirt. Shirt! Didn’t he wear a suit today?

Khushi slowly rose her gaze following her eyes up his chest then his throat and slowly his beardy chin, pursed lips, straight nose and then finally looked shyly into the twinkling brown eyes.

Arnav, on the other hand admired her dress selection today. Her top was a yellow one with red designs on the neck collar and orange and pink blooming flowers drawn on one side. With her simple, flowing long skirt she looked much younger then Arnav had suspected earlier.

Khushi rudely said-

What is that supposed to mean?

Arnav: I just said you look different.

He added after a glare-

I meant good different.

Khushi: Don’t you think you are acting weird? Giving compliments, on top of that, to me.

Arnav blurted-

I might be crazy headed but that doesn’t mean you aren’t nice.

Khushi’s frown got deeper. She said-

Blowing hot and cold Mr. Raizada? Suits you anyways.

Khushi went past him and up the stairs greeting all the people in her way. Arnav stared. She didn’t appreciate a compliment from him, HIM!? Arnav Singh Raizada for whom all the girls died for? What was this girl?

**

Khushi you want to talk about it?

Khushi and NK were having a last mug of hot chocolate before retiring to their beds. NK’s balcony was big enough to hold a small glass table with two chairs and had a view of the now quiet town.

Khushi was exceptionally quiet and NK, by habit, knew she must be thinking about Arnav and wished not to be disturbed. Khushi, instead of remaining unresponsive, sighed and slide her hand over NK’s where it was kept on the tea table. She said-

NK, I can’t do it anymore. Not any longer. Aryan’s growing up and he is growing up without a father. He is now getting old enough to understand everyone has a father and if I don’t tell him something about it then he will just assume that I and Arnavji got di..divorce..ed..

Khushi’s throat constricted and she looked away. NK tried-

Khushi, look, whatever happened we cannot change it ever. But can’t we really change the future?

Khushi jerked her hand away-

We have talked about this. We can’t in any means go back. Nor we can call in India. I can’t put his life in risk NK, never.

NK: Khushi, try to understand. The bastard who killed Anjali Di is probably dead by now.

Khushi: But don’t you understand. Probably. That’s the thing. What if he is still out there? Or what if he assigned some men to track us knowing his death beforehand? He promised me if I went back to India the first thing I will notice there is..

Khushi began to weep helplessly leaving NK uneasy. Khushi, after a while, said-

I need to tell Aryan. I need him to know that his father, if he knew about his existence, would love him deeply under any circumstances. And I was the one who left him or perhaps Aryan will blame him. I don’t want that.

NK: I understand Khushi. But what about you?

Khushi; There’s nothing to talk about me. I am happy with my child and you.

Khushi wiped her tears and smiled weakly. She said-

And by the way I think I have just found a girl for you. Remember my new colleague.

NK crinkled his face in an unpleasant manner. He said-

Not again Khushi!

**

Ms. Gupta.

Khushi was in her cabin. While looking through some samples she felt a pair of eyes on her. No mistake that it was those melting cocoa eyes, deep and beautiful.. Wait! Was she thinking about his eyes? His eyes!? Pftt..what was wrong with her this days? All she could do was think about that Laad governor. Laad Governor! A perfect name for him.

Unable to concentrate Khushi raised her head only to stare at Arnav who was staring at her quite evidently through the glass door. Khushi stood up suddenly and Arnav smirked. He pushed open the door and said-

Khushi, how about lunch with me today?

**

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Update- 10: Knowing you

What?!

Arnav smirked. He said-

I meant the meeting will go on for some time and as it can be late we can have a lunch.

Apprehension dawned to Khushi but it did not erase the frown on her face. She asked-

Well.. this Vadhera brothers, what are their names?

Arnav opened his mouth to respond when Khushi’s cell rang. Arnav hesitated and Khushi dived for her cell, which, for some reason, lay on the floor. She spoke-

Hello Jiji, yes..no I didn’t..Jiji, by any chance did you-

Khushi’s eyes shot up at Arnav and he cut short-

Jiji, leave it, I have to go for a meeting.. yes I am okay..bye.

Khushi gulped and without looking at Arnav rushed out of the room.

Khushi was confused, she was unable to get her boss out of her head and now this. Vadhera. She hated the name. Can it be him? Can it be them? Just when she forgot everything and took the step to move on, here again she is. She shuddered at the prospect of meeting him. It can’t be him, it just can’t be. Can it? Past memories came crashing back to her but she tried to break off from his thoughts concentrating on her present. She no longer loved him, did she? She has moved on. Her family, the job at AR and this vexing handsome ASR was her present.

She looked back at Arnav who was walking towards her and smiled at him, almost grateful he was there.

**

Hey Ruby!

The Teacher’s Lounge was painted off white with blue strips. The room smelled fresh with air conditioners. There were tables and armchairs and was a place teachers could enjoy their time off classes. But checking copies were also a part with scratching noises filling the room with light chats.

Ruby, Mrs. Owen, was the Geography teacher of Grade 8. She was white with freckles and now wore a blue top with jeans and light summer coat, part of her cleavage showing. She looked up at her colleague, Khushi, with her black beady eyes.

Khushi wore full jeans with her sweatshirt rolled up to her elbows, tucked neatly. She sat in the chair beside Ruby, sighing and dumping a stack of green copies on her working table. She looked around and waved to three other co-workers. Ruby said-

Good morning Kushe. You’re here early.

Khushi smiled tiredly not bothering about the pronunciation of her name. It had become a habit being referred as Kushe in a Welsh accent. She said-

NK went to drop off Aryan at school so I reached quickly.

Ruby: Hmm. I hardly slept last night.

Khushi: Ditto. (yawning) I think I drooled on a student’s sheet.

They both laughed. It was the Mid Term Examinations for Grade 2 to 7 and great pressures were put upon the teachers for checking their Exam papers.

**

Khushi, you seem nervous.

Arnav looked at Khushi who stared at busy streets through the big window of the empty conference room. Khushi tore her gaze and laughed silently, replied-

Maybe.

Khushi felt decided. No. It wasn’t them. They weren’t rich enough to make deals with AR. Vadhera was a common sir name in India. No, it won’t be them.

Arnav felt vexed. Something surely was keeping Khushi preoccupied or was it just because it was one of her first meetings. No, Khushi was smart, she had proven that on the very first late night meeting. It was something else entirely. But what?

Khushi: Arnavji, what were you saying about the Vadhera brothers then-

Arnav opened his mouth to reply but once again got intervened, this time by the door being pushed open. Two gentlemen walked inside in black business suits and sunglasses. Arnav’s mouth formed a line as she crossed past Khushi to shake hands with the new comers. Khushi turned around knowing it was them. She felt the air chill the moment she heard shoes on the tiled floor.

Despite knowing she froze when she turned around and looked at her ex fiancé Devan Vadhera. The man she had fallen in love four years back.

Devan took off his sunglasses his thin lips curling into a smile.

Devan Vadhera was a man of 26. He was sturdily built with a fair complexion. He was well over six inches tall with broad shoulders and hard chest. His eyes were black with thick eyelashes and nose all straight and handsome.

Madhav, the elder Vadhera was a businessman of 31. He, like his brother was strongly built with intimidating features.

Devan looked at Arnav and then at Khushi. He said in a deep hoarse voice-

So this is the new talent of yours ASR, Ms. Khushi Kumari Gupta.

Khushi cleared her throat and in the most official tone she could master she said-

Nice to meet you Mr. Vadhera.

She moved forward and shook hands with both of the men, carefully avoiding their amused gazes. Khushi knew they were informed of her arrival and had de bated Khushi’s worst reaction. But Khushi was not going to lose her composure, not this time.

**

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Update 11: Confusion and Determination

It was a Friday evening and the golden sun was throwing off the last off its light into the pale sky. A gentle warm breeze blew, rustling the leaves. Khushi and Payal walked amidst the central Park, talking.

Payal: Why didn’t you tell me before?

Khushi: Trust me Jiji, I tried to, but..

Khushi trailed off as she heard Payal muttering slangs under her breath. She replied slowly-

I have decided Jiji. I will not, in any how repeat my mistake. That was four years back.

Khushi’s voice quivered. She was getting emotional. She was remembering him, something which she mustn’t do.

Payal took her hand and asked-

You sure you’re okay?

Khushi looked at Payal. After meeting Devan all seemed a mess again. Just last night she, after two years, again dreamt of him. After a long time Khushi had cried, cried silently in the darkness of her bedroom. She had kept strong without a single soul to confide in about the recent incident. But now she had told her sister she broke down.

Khushi threw her arms around Payal, letting her tears flow again. Payal led her to a bench and they spent time, looking at the dusky sky till the last of golden light had faded.

**

I am sorry about your marks sweetie. Tell you what? Next time we will work harder.

The little girl of 8 peered at Khushi, and then gave a weak smile. She said in pure English-

I wanted so bad to get the highest, you know Ms. Gupteh.

Khushi ruffled her short blond hair. She smiled warmly and said-

I love your spirit, you know. And science is a hard subject to get top marks in. Besides, I heard you’re the top in all other subjects.

Stephanie Martin smiled. She liked her science teacher, Ms. Kushe Gupteh.

Khushi looked around at the other students in the class. Some were happy with Bs while some were sad getting As. Some were still chattering cheerfully getting Cs. Interesting. Khushi loved kids and loved to watch them and play with. Teaching them has been one of the memorable experiences. She was unaware, but she was one of the most popular among the teachers of junior section of Shanes School of Motoring.

A boy called her out and she hurried to his side to answer his query.

**

Yes.. no I am fine, seriously dude..No! I mean, dude you can’t come here just like this in middle of your university.. Of course not..

Khushi was talking on her cell. She looked disheveled, her bun tied without much combing and her ivory salwar holding a bit of wrinkles. But as usual her face was pretty, radiating a natural glow. Now she was smiling tiredly, standing in the corridor. Arnav walked over to her to hear part of her conversation on the phone-

Yes, I think it’s time I stand up for myself..yes he did..I know-

She paused, spotting Arnav in his black suit. She hurriedly spoke-

I will call you back.. bye.

Arnav said-

I don’t know but you seem off the hang for the past couple of days.

Khushi: Oh no, I am fine. Just a little worried about ..um.. something.

Arnav: Uh.. Ok, so I have been waiting to inform you. Madhav Vadhera accepted the deal and we go in for a final meeting tomorrow evening.

A visibly shocked expression drowned Khushi’s features. She composed herself quickly, almost losing her balance for a moment. This didn’t go unnoticed by Arnav who immediately held Khushi firmly by her shoulders. He asked-

What is it Khushi?

Khushi: Nothing, just a bad headache.

Khushi could see Arnav was not convinced. But she said-

Let’s go to your cabin. I want to show you some files I worked on last night.

As they walked out of the long corridor and into their conference room Khushi was so worried that she failed to notice Arnav’s secure grip on her arm.

**

How is it going?

Khushi was at her diner. NK was sending instructions to the waiters. He turned around and said-

All good yet. Aryan’s in the play zone?

Yes, he and some of his friends. I think I will take over for some while.

NK: Oh no, you look tired. I am sure our guests wouldn’t prefer an exhausted old woman to an energetic young and handsome guy.

Khushi gave NK a playful shove and snatched the register books from him. She looked around at the place she and NK built up in the last 9 years.

The Seas And Salt Beachside Diner was as always with pleasant company. Tables were full, couples were dancing on the side bar dance floor and cute families were laughing and enjoying their food. Khushi enjoyed watching them, especially families with the mom and dad and their one child. They reminded her of Arnav and Aryan and what a great family they three would make. The golden lights were hanging in artificial lamp. The curtains were reddish-brown and the walls painted a sunny yellow.

**

I said let go!

Khushi was whispering dangerously. Devan stood in front of her, pinning her to the wall. He looked at her pleadingly. He again said-

Just listen to me once. Khushi, this once just listen to me, please. Khushi I loved you and I have loved you then. My marriage was nothing, I got divorced the day you left me. Khushi-

I don’t care! Just leave me.

Khushi no! I know you love me. Khushi you love me still.

Khushi looked away and fiercely said-

I don’t love you! Now leave.

Devan released her. He said-

I got my answer Khushi. You love me very much and one more chance I promise to-

Khushi looked daggers at him. She almost exploded-

You promise?! Mr. Vadhera, you promised lots of things all those years back? You promised to love me, marry me and cherish me forever. But you broke all those and now you again promise?! Truth is that then you were after my father’s money and now you’re after my money.

Devan: Khushi-

Khushi: Don’t get your filthy mouth to say my name! And watch yourself!

Khushi fumed away, striding towards the exit.

Devan smiled wickedly and he whispered-

Khushi, you’re right. Then I was after your father’s money and now yours and your father’s altogether. And money I will get from you and as well as your heart. I know you a bit too well and your weak spots then you would have liked you see, Ms. Khushi Kumari Gupta.

**

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Update 12: Confusion and Determination

He sat on his recliner, head down, hands clamped tightly on his lap. He was wearing a sweatshirt, a light breeze running through his hair. He was at his poolside, trying to get off the mental stress he was going through.

Chote.

A delicate hand appeared on his shoulder, jerking Arnav back to reality. He turned around and saw his elder sister, Anjali in a blue purple sari looking concerned. She went and sat beside him and said-

Chote, you’ve been quiet ever since you got home. Is everything ok?

Arnav replied truthfully-

No Di, nothing’s ok. It hurts to see people you care about hurting. And even worse when you don’t know the reason behind their pain and you have only to see the tears.

Anjali: You want to talk about it?

Several hours back..

Arnav was waiting impatiently. Where is that girl?

At that moment a small figure came out of the large circling doors. Arnav frowned. That was her, wasn’t it? She scurried, looking back, her eyes brimming. Just as Arnav was about to call out she stumbled and bumped straight into him.

Khushi’s eyes shot up. She quickly pulled away and looked down, saying-

I am sorry.

Arnav put a hand on her slumped shoulder. He said-

Now this is torture. Khushi tell me what happened, please?

Khushi stammered: I ca..can’t.

The drive passed on with Arnav glancing at Khushi, worried and baffled, all the while Khushi just kept on cutting calls on her cell, finally switching it off.

Present time..

No Di. I don’t. Goodnight.

Anjali kissed Arnav on the forehead and said-

Whatever it is you will set it right, I know. You always do. Goodnight.

Anjali left leaving Arnav crammed up with emotions.

**

Class 4A had a good reputation of its own. The students were fairly modest and intelligent in their own taste. However wood work was their favorite class, a class they could talk freely without waiting to hear the bell for lunch time. And this was the class they were having now, taken by Mr. Hanson.

Ryan, as Aryan was used to being called now, was laughing with his two boyfriends, Brian and Garald. Brian was a blonde, white and freckly while Garland was dark with short black hair and not as tall as other boys in class. A pretty girl with brown flowing hair came to them.

Her name was Mary Grodd and she was 10 years old. She said-

Hey guys! How are your social studies projects coming up?

Brian: I don’t even know what my topic is.

Garald: Yo Mars, I am already done.

Aryan: (thumping Garald on the back) That’s my nerdy BF! Mary I got halfway through. My topic’s not really hard- best swimmers.

Mary: Best swimmers, you’re unlucky boy. I got the top billionaires. And guess what?!

Brian: The guys you researched on were very sexy and you’re absolutely petrified drooling over their photos.

Mary: Oh! You know me so well!

The three guys rolled their eyes. Mary excitedly said-

But here comes the best part. The fourth richest and definitely gorgeous man is from Indiah.

Aryan’s jaw fell open. Mary continued-

And his name is Arnav Singh Raizada. He’s so handsome and…

Mary went on talking but Aryan’s focus was shifted. Arnav Singh Raizada sounded familiar, a little too familiar for Aryan’s liking.

**

Arnav was sitting at his desk. It was a Wednesday morning and his eyes just stared at the entrance of AR, waiting for Khushi’s arrival. He seemed dazed. Why was he feeling the way he was feeling? It hadn’t been even three weeks he had come to know Khushi. And now he felt this..this.. Why did he care for her so much? He didn’t even know her properly. He couldn’t think straight. His door opened swiftly and Arnav looked up.

The person was the one he was least expecting at the moment. The guy of 22 was none other than Arnav’s cousin, Nand Kishore Singh Raizada.

NK, short for Nand Kishore was wearing his regular attire, brown jacket with a purple t-shirt beneath, a white gold chain hanging down his broad chest. He smiled only half-heartedly as Arnav stood up and stared at him in surprise.

NK: Hi Nanav.

Arnav frowned. The NK he knew would run and hug him. But then maybe NK had become all serious and timid after the recent divorce of his parents. Arnav felt sympathetic and sad all of a sudden. He said-

NK! It’s so good to see you buddy.

Arnav walked to give him a hug. NK looked tense and tired. He forced a smile and said-

You too Nanav. Umm..Khushi has not reached yet?

Arnav’s confusion turned to bewilderment. He asked-

What?! You know Khushi?

NK was a little impatient now. He said-

Yes yes. I am her best friend. Where is she?

Arnav was about to burst when NK muttered, looking at the entrance-

Khushi.

Arnav followed NK’s gaze to see the person he was waiting to see. Khushi.

She was looking a person with anemia. She was pale as a ghost with slightly puffed eyes. She was wearing a lilac full sleeved suite. People greeted as she walked through the cubicles of employers. She nodded, smiling faintly.

NK went out and stood at the head of the stairs, looking miserable. Arnav could do nothing but stare. Khushi came slowly up the stairs, her head lowered, fingers fidgeting with her veil.

Next everything went in slow motion. Arnav saw NK say her name and she her eyes shot up in one instant, widening, lips parting. Her hands rose in shock. NK tried to smile, putting his hands on either side of Khushi. Khushi kept on looking at him then suddenly her face lit up with a broad smile.

Arnav came out and heard Khushi squeal-

NK! I can’t believe this!

NK suddenly became grim. He asked fiercely-

Can I ask why on earth didn’t you take my calls yesterday?

In response Khushi just wrapped her arms around her friend. Khushi felt happy. At last he came. He can understand me better than any one. NK pulled back. He repeated his question, firmly.

Khushi: NK, we can talk about that. Oh my god, I am so glad you’re here.

Then Khushi frowned. She asked-

And may I ask you why you are down here from Aus so abruptly?

NK: Yes, because I was worried about you and..

Arnav had enough. He decided to intervene. He said-

Khushi.

Khushi wheeled around and smiled broadly. She said-

Good morning Arnavji! Oh.. and this is my friend NK, from-

NK: Uh Khushi. I know him.

Now it was Khushi’s turn to be baffled. She said-

What? How?

Arnav: Because I know him from the time he was born

Khushi stared. NK said-

Khushi, you remember my cousin I told you about in Lucknow, Nanav Singh-

Arnav: What?! NK you said my actual name was Na!-

Khushi: Ow Ow Ow! Let get this clear! My best friend is my boss’s cousin?

Arnav + NK: Yes!

Khushi cracked up. In between her laughter she said-

Arnavji! You know what NK used to call you, Nanav the Psychopath!

Arnav: What?!

Nk started laughing too. He said-

Yes, she is the girl I and Anjali Di used to meet back in those days.

Then only did Khushi stop laughing. She said, turning to Arnav-

That means Anjali di is your sister.

Arnav: That means you are the girl-

Khushi turned away. Yet another problem. She remembered telling NK to keep all her contracts away from di, di who she loved, and di who was her closest friend. After what happened back in Lucknow, Khushi till this day blamed her, knowing she had to live with the guilt all her life. The guilt of tearing Anjali from her childhood sweetheart, Sham.

She felt Arnav keep a hand on her shoulder. He spoke slowly-

Khushi, do me a favor and go to di at once. All these years she had blamed herself for firing up on you. She was never the same after you left Lucknow for what had happened. She tried to look for you, find out if you were okay or not. Please Khushi, let us start where we were, you were the girl who my sister was befriend with. She misses you Khushi. Ever since you went away she pushed off all her friends, remaining to herself. She will be more than happy to get you back. Trust me.

**

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Update-13: Astonishing Discoveries

Chote! You could have told me you’re coming for lunch.

Anjali was wearing a pale baby pink sari and now smiled warmly as she opened the door and found her Chote, Arnav, standing before her, his expression somewhat troubled.

Arnav: Di, I had no plans of coming but until a rather unexpected guest turned up.

So I am a guest am I?

The voice was NK’s and he stepped up to face Anjali. Anjali looked with surprise and almost screamed-

NK! You are here? This is such a great surprise.

NK smiled wanly, hugging Anjali. He said-

I missed you all. So I came here.

Anjali: You did the right thing.

Anjali paused, studying NK’s face, the glint in his eyes were missing. She added, holding his cheek in her hand-

You sure you are okay?

NK: I am fine Di, and I have not come alone.

Anjali: Really? Don’t tell me you’ve come with your girlfriend.

NK: If put in one way she is my girlfriend.

Arnav clenched his fists almost automatically. NK continued-

You see Di she is she and she is my best friend.

NK went back outside and came back with her. Anjali was expecting to see an Australian bond. On the contrary she found an Indian girl seemingly with traditional values what with her sober outlook and respectful and trusting hazel eyes. She looked up at Anjali cautiously, as if awaiting some kind of reaction. She seemed vaguely familiar, almost like a old friend. Anjali could just smile.

Arnav stiffly said-

My.. I mean AR’s managing head-

NK: Di, I hope you recognize her.

Khushi kept mum. Di didn’t recognize her and she couldn’t blame her. She was seeing her for the first time after almost 7 years! She didn’t have a clue whether Anjali would accept her as a friend but it was worth a try, or several tries. Now they had met Khushi decided she would keep trying until Di would accepts.

Anjali was taken aback. Why would she recognize her brother’s new manager? She was new wasn’t she? She had never met her before, or had she? Then the familiarity of the eyes clicked. Of course! Khushi!

Arnav knew the instant Anjali recognized Khushi. Weirdly he found himself anticipating for her reaction.

When Anjali spoke, it wasn’t the voice any of the three had quiet hard before. Almost cold, slow and low toned. She asked-

Are you Khushi?

Khushi seemed ambiguous. Till now she had been worried about Anjali yelling at her and telling her to leave. Now she was worried of getting a slap on her face, maybe. She gulped, feeling her throat dry. She said-

Ya Di, it’s me. Khushi.

**

Good God!

This was the two words Aryan managed to gasp. Being born and raised up in England, like many others kids Aryan was an expert when it came to computers and using the net. Her mother, though kind, generous and friendly had imposed certain rules on the computer. A few common of them being- No turning on of PC after 9, no using the internet with her absent, safe search to be turned on the regular basis, history to be remained untouched to be investigated later..etc..

This night, unlike any other nights in his life, Aryan was breaking all of them. It was way past midnight with his mother tucked peacefully in her bed and he had turned off the safe mode scared something might go amiss. He had also decided on deleting the history later.

Now seeing all the contents flooding his computer screen he felt his head beginning to revolt. The images were that of his mother’s wearing gorgeous, expensive Indian clothes, everywhere posed with THE one man. The man was handsome, lean and tall, and in most photos he was possessively clutching on her mother slim waist and her mother’s hand resting on his chest. The couple looked happy in all of the images on Google search. They were all taken 10 to 9 years back. The man was world fourth richest- Arnav Singh Raizada. Seemingly the man his mother had been married to, seemingly the man who is his father.

The thought was anything but pleasing to nine year old Aryan.

**

Tears were pouring down from Khushi’s eyes as Anjali embraced her in a tight hug. Khushi was happy, she was happy after two crazy weeks. She could hear Anjali crying and her structure shaking against her. Anjali whispered-

Khushi.

Khushi managed between sobs-

I am so sorry Di. I never should have left you. Never. I thought..i thought..

Anjali pulled away and almost pushed Khushi. She wailed painfully, her words echoing around the large hall.

What did you think? If you left everything would turn out fine? I would have reconciled with that b****** !? I would have thanked you Khushi but you just left, you destroyed everything that was still remaining after the revelation. You went away, without anyone to comfort me, Chote and Akash were helpless. They didn’t know what hit me. You were my best friend not them! And NK had to go away. Days turned into months and months into years Khushi. For once you did not meet me all the time knowing I was here. You had contact with NK all these years and I knew it. I was sure. NK can deny the truth but I saw that he was lying the whole damn time!

The words came as expected to Khushi and NK. However, Arnav was shell shocked seeing his sister’s ominous demeanor. Anjali broke down on her knees, crying hard. The three rushed towards her. Khushi said-

Di I am sorry. Di look at me, I am very sorry. Everything I did, I can explain. I did all these because I thought.. I thought you hated me-

Anjali looked up at an instant. She yelled-

You’re wrong! I never hated you. I hate you! I hate you from now!

NK’s voice sounded over Anjali’s-

Di, we need to talk. It’s important!

Anjali stared at him, breathing heavily. NK solemnly said-

It’s about Dev.

Arnav saw yet another flick of recognition in Anjali’s eyes.

**

Hey Nunkle!

The car shed at Khushi’s front yard was messy and disarranged. Once painted light blue the color had now worn off with oil stains, mud and footprints. NK’s GTR was now parked in. His body was partly visible from underneath the car on which he was working on. NK heard Aryan’s cheerful call and smiling slid down from beneath.

Aryan looked at his Nunkle’s dirty face. With black spots and sweat beads on his forehead he was seemingly handsome. NK boomed-

Hello little Man! Wassup?

Nothing much. Just came to see what you are up to.

NK scrambled up and fished the surroundings for a bottle of water. He said-

Well that’s nice of you. See your mother doesn’t even care to wish me good morning.

Aryan laughed, trying to sound casual when he put down his next question. He watched as NK found the bottled and uncorked it. Aryan asked-

You know about the Richie rich Nunkle? Mr. Arnav Singh Raizada?

Aryan got his answer as he watched NK drop his bottle and stare at him in disbelief.

**

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Update-14: Astonishing Discoveries

After Arnav had gone back to office Anjali, Khushi and NK had settled in the private lounge. The room was silent before NK chose to break in-

So di, where’s nani?

Anjali cleared her throat and replied-

In the temple.

Khushi was still unnerved. She was even afraid to meet Anjali’s eyes. NK sensed her discomfort and again spoke-

Well di, Khushi has come back after a long time-

Anjali: And the reason being?

NK: She missed you. A lot.

Anjali: (sarcastic) I believe you.

Khushi spoke softly, not daring to look up.

Di, I am sorry. And I know you can’t forgive me that easily. I have been selfish, un thoughtful and lousy. If you call me a liar and a traitor you’re justified. If you slap me now, you’re justified. But you can’t pull me away from you. You can pull away your friend but not your little Khushi. Never. You might hate me but it doesn’t mean that you don’t love me.

After a long pause Anjali said-

I am not going to slap you and I am not going to yell at you. But you’ve to give me a satisfactory answer to one question I want to ask.

Khushi’s reply was earnest and immediate-

Anything di.

Anjali: Why did you leave that day?

Khushi sighed and then she began-

That evening, as usual, I was walking back home from school. It was already four and I hurried to reach NK’s reunion party. In my haste I thought about taking a shortcut. You remember the Crow’s wood, everybody in village spoke of it as haunted? So ya, I skipped the path and started walking through the wood. After an hour or so the sun began dying.

I scuffled along and almost at the end of the tall dark trees I spotted them. Shyamji and Lalita. They were..were ..well spending an intimate moment. I obviously took the man to be any other random guy. But then it was a small village and curiosity got the best of me. I inched closer among the trees, squinting at the man.

I couldn’t take in what I saw. The man who was seemingly my best friend’s boyfriend and was unofficially engaged to her was cheating on her! I felt disgusted. I ran away. After a week I confided the whole thing in NK, much to his persistence. I made him vow not to tell this to a soul. But how could I see you marry a guy who wasn’t worth a thing.

It was the next morning that I finally told you. And then you know it. But you see I couldn’t tell you the whole thing of what I really had witnessed. I was too ashamed, ashamed of making you unhappy, ashamed for snatching your love from you, ashamed for not being a better friend, ashamed for being the reason your aunts and uncles criticized you. My family almost wanted to disown me. But Babuji and Jiji understood. The very next day as Shyamji came raving mad at our door we turned him down. I saw only NK telling him to keep in touch but never tell you. We left for Buaji’s house here at Delhi. Now here is our life and here, after 7 years I met you once again.

Khushi ended, her eyes fixed on Anjali’s. Anjali asked-

Why are you here?

NK: Di, that’s two questions-

Khushi raised a finger to hush NK and answered, almost exhausted-

After I came to Delhi, Babuji opened a new branch of our Halwai shop. We had given our Lucknow branch to Ramu Kaka. Years steadily passed as we got settled to our new life. Then Jiji graduated, I followed almost immediately. Jiji turned out brilliant and joined the HCI bank as a CA to support the family. We considered moving into a flat but then Babuji lost the shop. Ramu Kaka had died and her nephews took over our business. Even with Jiji as a support we couldn’t get justice. So I joined AR a month ago, living up to my dream of being a fashion designer. I liked everything about my new job. And then…then NK turned up and I got to know that you, di was Arnavji’s sister. I couldn’t keep any longer knowing we were so closely related now. And considering the circumstances I needed mental support. So I came.

Anjali listened without interruption. She sighed and reached out to take Khushi’s hand. Khushi smiled, but only slightly. She said-

I am sorry di.

Anjali: Aren’t you forgetting something? NK, you mentioned about Dev earlier.

She studied Khushi’s hand and laughed and said-

Don’t tell me that lover boy of yours didn’t propose you yet. I remember what cute childhood sweethearts you were. I thought there would be a wedding ring as well as an engagement one.

Khushi’s muscles contracted. She looked at NK and he got the cue. He said-

Maybe most of the childhood loves aren’t meant to last.

NK continued-

After Khushi had gone away Devan traced her back to Delhi. They got together and eventually Devan moved in to Delhi. Then just four years back, after almost a decade of being in a relationship Devan proposed. Without a second thought Khushi accepted. They both decided getting engaged and then getting married after studies. They also agreed on Khushi working a job. But then as time passed he began to pressurize Khushi for marriage. Then in one of the major arguments that son of a b***** outburst on Khushi revealing that his only reason for marrying was her father’s money. And in truth he was already a married man with a pregnant wife.

The news broke Khushi. But she had been always strong. Despite my family wreckage I flew back immediately to support her. She broke of her engagement and Devan, not wanting to hurt his pride anymore left.

Then after several weeks I went away, leaving Khushi to recover with her family. After all these years just when Khushi felt ready to move on that..tthat.. he returned again claiming he still loves Khushi and that he wants her back. These two weeks was hard for Khushi but you, Payal Di and I will help her in every way possible.

Anjali’s jaw was hanging open. And to think this guy and Khushi were a match made in heaven! This was unbelievable! She felt the tears pour out, partly of sadness and partly of anger. She calmly said, warmly squeezing Khushi’s hand-

And help, we shall be.

**

How long did you to think to keep this away from me?

NK ran a hand through his hair, sweating, not for the light autumn sun but in the nervousness now bubbling within him. He finally spoke-

You sure you can handle all this I want to tell you?

Aryan: Yes.

It was shortly after wards NK launched into a tale.

Your Dad was a rich guy, at that time he was not the in the top 10 but still among the top 50. He owned one of the hugest MNC in Asia, AR Designs. People knew him by who he was. He was friendly and generous. Good hearted.

Your mom was a fine young lady. Ambitious beneath her shy nature. Amicable and jolly, your mother dreamed about becoming a fashion designer. She was multi talented- a great cook, a caring friend, a responsible sister, an obedient daughter. She was also a very bright student of Designing.

Then some time later your grand dad fell into a crisis. Despite your Payal masi (Aryan raised an eyebrow) I mean Payal auntie having a good job at the bank hard times came along. Khushi, family loving and trusting, came to the aid and took up a job of her sector, at the great Fashion house of AR.

Your mom was appointed the managing head and then with her big pay offs the financial problems rested. Your father was a man of a kind. He strongly believed he will not fall in love. But not long did his belief last as Khushi came along his way. Through ups and downs the two strong headed individuals fell in love with each other. They decided to get married.

But firstly your Akash uncle, younger brother of your dad got married to your Payal masi. After some time Khushi and Nanav..i mean your dad got married. The family was jubilant with two happy marriages. Your dad and mom were very much in love. Things never changed but then incidents occurred, things which were not foreseen. The consequences, your mother and I left the house. Your Anjali aunt died. Two after we reached here and Khushi thought she was dying we got news of you coming. You were the reason she chose to live again. And you are the reason she still goes on with the flow of life.

So there now you know the truth.

**

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Update-15: Oath

His face was blank. NK couldn’t gather what the kid was feeling. After what he had told him Aryan must have burst out into tears or ran away. Nothing. He just stared and NK gazed at him, concerned. He put a hand on Aryan shoulder and pulled him onto his lap. He said-

Little man, whatever happened is 9 years ago. And we can’t change it. But you have every right to know your father. Unfortunately we can’t go back, me and your mom just can’t.

Aryan slowly spoke –

Why can’t you?

NK sighed. He heavily replied –

I can’t tell you that. Khushi forbade me-

Aryan: To tell me anything. Fine keep me in the dark.

Aryan turned to face NK and said-

But I promise to bring mom and dad together-

NK: I know this is hard for you. But this is utterly impossible.

Aryan almost cried out-

No! Nothing is impossible for Aryan Singh Gupta. Nothing! I will prove that nothing is impossible. And moreover I found out yesterday that dad hadn’t married. And mom still loves him. So if they love each other me, their son shall bring them together. Now, are you going to help me or not?

NK remained silent for a long time. Then sensing Aryan’s growing impatience, he said-

OK, we will. But remember, not a word to your mom.

Aryan smiled sweetly and said-

Promise.

**

Arnav looked up from his laptop to see Khushi standing near the cabin entrance. She was wearing a green yellow suite with her hair in a bun. She looked livelier than she had been in days, a small smile playing at the corner of her lips. She said-

Good morning Arnavji.

The high pitched voice was back. Arnav smiled and said-

Hey Khushi! Good morning. How are you?

Khushi moved in and took a seat in front of her boss and said-

I am fine, actually really very fine. But look at you. You seem like you haven’t slept the whole night.

Arnav actually couldn’t get much sleep. After he had gone from the office he found his family having dinner with Khushi. NK, much to his annoyance, had gone to drop Khushi off. Later his Di took him upstairs and along with his Jijaji the trio spent talking about old days up to 4 in the morning. He had a slight headache and his eyelids felt heavy. He said-

Oh yeah. Di spent time telling me about you as a little girl. I was literally awake the whole night. (yawned)

Khushi: I am sorry. Actually di and I got too excited after meeting each other after so many years.

Arnav: I saw that. Anyways while I was at RM yesterday NK mentioned something about Dev or someone. Who’s he?

The smile instantly evaporated. Khushi stammered-

Uh..umm..

Arnav suddenly sat up straight. He said-

Oh no. Must be a secret between friends right? I shouldn’t have asked.

Khushi: It’s okay, you didn’t know.

Khushi went away and Arnav cursed himself.

**

Okay, now here’s the thing. Almost every week I come to this website. It is run by Nanav’s

Aryan: (baffled) Nanav?

NK: I called your dad that!

Aryan: Ohhkay..

NK and Aryan were sitting at NK’s laptop in their backyard. It was evening and there were more two hours to go before Khushi returned home. NK now searched out the site he had told Aman to open before he left. Khushi had been using this secret blog to see how Arnav was on a weekly basis.

NK resumed-

As I was saying, this is a blog run by Nanav’s PA. It has all his current status of health, wealth, companies, adversaries-

Aryan: Adversaries?

NK: Yes, actually the reason your mom left your dad was because of a family foe. He killed off your Anjali Bua and threatened your mom with your father’s life. Your mom wouldn’t take the chances so we came.

Aryan coldly asked-

Who is this man?

NK: Shyam, but you wouldn’t know him. The thing is that Shyam is in jail right now. Your father wanted to kill him but the police wouldn’t let him.

Aryan: But he killed people! He killed my aunt and he almost killed my mother and now-

NK: And now he is hell bent on taking revenge. He is in jail but he is a lawyer. According to the court his punishment is lifetime but your mom and I fear that he will bail himself out. It already has been nine years and after every ten years the country abolishes the older records. Lots of cunning criminals get a chance to escape at that time.

Aryan: So you are saying that you use this blog to even know if this man is still in jail or not?

NK: Precisely.

Aryan: And if he bails himself out the first thing he will want to do is kill father?

NK: Yes. And your mother has been a lot worried about this lately. You’ve no idea Aryan, but the world is not as good as it seems. This man, if we want to bring Khushi and Nanav together, must be destroyed. But he, believe me, is very dangerous.

Aryan: I believe you. But somehow I also believe we can bring my parents together.

NK: Problem is your mom. She believes that even if Shyam is in jail he will fulfill the threat he made years ago. That night as your mom was almost dying, Shyam said her to leave. Leave and go away somewhere far because if she went back to her husband he will make sure they both get killed.

Aryan: But all this time and this man was in jail. Why didn’t you do something?

NK: Aryan, you’re not getting my point. This man is behind the bars but he has huge connections all over the nations. They might be watching us as we talk. His men are just waiting for Khushi to board a flight to India. And then they are going to-

Aryan: Kill off dad.

The prospect was chilling. Aryan wanted to believe it was all a nightmare. Wasn’t it just yesterday he was sitting in his classroom, laughing away with Brian without a single worry in his head? And now, just 24 hours later he found out he had a billionaire as a dad who was on the edge of getting killed any day now. And also was it really true that they were being surveyed wherever they went? And also now that he was determined to bring both of his parents together, he and his Nunkle might be facing one of the most dangerous criminals known?

The answers of the questions weren’t that intriguing to Aryan.

**

Khushi arrived at the office early on Wednesday morning. NK had gone for submitting his previous records to a known University. As she stepped into the hall something did not feel right. Her eyes instinctively shot up at the director’s cabin. There sat Arnav in a grey suit talking to a man dressed in a brown casual suit. She didn’t want to believe who it was. No it can’t be him. Can it?

Her thoughts were interrupted by Akash. He cheerily said-

Good morning Khushiji!

Khushi: Good morning Akashji. How are you?

Akash: I am good. I just wanted to inform that Anjali di called you in for lunch today. She said your phone wouldn’t go through.

Khushi laughed distractedly. She said-

Maybe she was trying to call me at the same time I was trying to call her.

Akash: Yeah. Khushiji, I got to rush. You see I had gone to see your sister early in the morning and just remembered I had to show Bhai a presentation file today.

Khushi smiled and walked with Akash upstairs to Arnav’s room, already breaking into a light sweat. She entered before Akash and Arnav smiled at her. He said-

Khushi! Come come! I want you to meet somebody. You remember the Vadhera Brothers? The ones we had meeting with. Well Devan just turned up to say hello.

Khushi had feared just as much as the tall silhouette of a man turned and she came face to face with Devan, yet again.

**

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Update-16: Oath

Good morning Ms. Gupta.

Khushi smiled easily. She replied-

A very good morning Mr. Vadhera. How do you do?

Devan smiled, but Khushi could see he was baffled. He said-

I am fine. Arnav was just praising about you.

Khushi: Oh, so you already call each other by first names. That’s a development.

Khushi moved towards the desk to greet Arnav, making sure not to brush against Devan’s shoulder. Devan moved to exchange greetings with Akash.

Arnav talked to Khushi for a while, noticing her grim air. She’s again upset, he wondered. He looked at Devan who was talking to Akash. Again the question arouses- Why is he here so promptly and then appears to be so amiable? Something is definitely wrong. Arnav sees as Akash leaves the room and Devan comes forward. For some reason Arnav didn’t approve of the frequent long looks Devan was giving Khushi.

Devan said-

Arnav, it is so nice to see you all. We should definitely meet up. How about lunch today at Royal’s Café around 1? You and Ms. Gupta.

Khushi’s body went rigid and she swore under her breath as she heard Arnav smilingly reply-

Sure Devan. Me and Khushi will be there. We don’t have any lunch meetings scheduled. Do we Khushi?

Khushi stammered-

Uh..umm..no we don’t..Most fortunately.

Devan smiled at her but Khushi averted her eyes towards Arnav, laughing and saying-

Arnavji, look at your collar. Now don’t tell me the great business tycoon ASR has worn an un ironed shirt!

Arnav: Khushi, you see I don’t have a wife who tends to me. So… But I am willing to bow to you only if you fix my collar.

Khushi reddened slightly and glanced at an apprehensive Devan. She then obediently put her arms around Arnav. Fixing his collar, her hands sending goose bumps down her spine as her fingers brushed his hair. Devan loudly said-

So I will be taking leave. Bye Arnav. It was nice to see you again Ms. Gupta. See you at lunch.

As Devan turned away and left Khushi could sense one of his tricks coming up this afternoon. But she turned to Arnav who was looking at her and smiled at him.

**

What? You and mom took courses on cryptology!?

NK and Aryan were in NK’s bedroom. NK’s laptop was reflecting a window of C Basic. NK now started to explain-

Yes, for eight years after moving in here Aryan, me and your mom took lessons on cryptology. But this knowledge was just for hacking networking sites and intercom channels for emergencies concerning your dad’s life. We vowed never to use it for extracting information which would help us to formulate plans for reaching to India. But now, by your show of determination I am going to have to try and break the national intercom channels of Black market and Information as well as try to hack the Indian Digital Management.

And how does breaking these sites help us?

NICBI helps us to get information passed through the unsecured and secret telephone lines and even VoIP calls direct to our lines. It’s tough and the radio transmissions are weak owing to the fact we live far away from the nation but still possible. But the thing most challenging will be hacking the IDM database. They are secure and protected by all kinds of algorithms. Here however, living in Rhyl comes at an advantage. England is a MEDC and publically specializes on computer engineering software. If I could slip off for a couple of days and head to London I may pick up some CDs containing instructions to loop the specific algorithms.

Aryan: Talking in the way that you are, I believe you’ll take days to get the job done.

NK: Owing to your momma’s prying ears we might take a while yes. At least with all the work at the restaurant I would want a month.

Aryan: That’s long.

**

And so tell me Khushi..umm..can I call you Khushi?

Khushi, Arnav and Devan were at the Royal’s Café having lunch. Khushi barely ate anything, only fighting off an urge to pummel Devan in the face by forcing sincere smiles and little formal talk. She gritted her teeth before replying-

Sure Mr. Vadhera. After all you call Arnavji by his name.

Khushi deliberately emphasized on ‘Arnavji’, watching the muscles working on Devan’s cheeks. She looked at Arnav who was at apparent leisure, seemingly enjoying his food with his friends. How she wished to tell him everything so that he would punch the life out of Devan?!

Arnav: Khushi, then you should also honor him by calling him by his first name.

Come on Arnavji, how can I tell you that I called him ‘my’ Dev? The thought even disgusts me, thought Khushi. She said-

Oh no Arnavji, come on, that will sound rude, wouldn’t it?

Arnav could sense something was coming. He pretended to be in peace. In reality he was carefully observing the actions and the interactions between the two people, Khushi beside him and Devan in front of him. Khushi had not touched her food yet and looked extremely uncomfortable. Devan was looking at Khushi with kind of drowsy eyes, something in those eyes Arnav didn’t come to like.

At that moment Khushi’s phone rang. She answered it, sounding hesitant-

Ya NK (Devan’s eyes shot up), how did the interview go..yes..i am at a lunch.. shut up..Royal’s Café with Arnavji and one of our business friends Devan… no!.. Bye.

Arnav: How did the dumb bag do?

Khushi: Hey, watch it about my friend Arnavji. NK’s a good student and he will come off well.

Devan: Who’s NK? Your friend?

Khushi felt nauseated at Devan’s skill of acting. And to know him and NK were good friends even some years back! She said-

Oh NK’s a family friend.

Just then Arnav’s phone went off and he excused himself, going towards the men’s. Khushi felt suddenly alone, knowing Devan had come searching for this moment only. Just then Devan kept his hand on top of hers and looked at him with wide eyes jerking it off. Devan said-

Khushi, I know you are mad at me and you’ve every reason to be mad but-

Khushi hissed-

I am not mad. I just hate you and don’t ever come near me, my friends or my office ever again!

Devan: And so, Arnav, he’s a good friend right?

Khushi: Yes he is.

Devan nodded-

Much better than me I see. But Khushi I don’t ask for much, I want just another chance. Khushi please-

Khushi: Don’t even go there! Who are you to have one more chance? All these times I thought I knew you where else I didn’t know the real you. Not at all! I thought you loved me but you had proven me wrong again! And now all I do is hate you!

Devan tried, his eyes showing warmth and care-

Khushi, love, please, you can hate me but please give me another chance-

Khushi: Again with your chances!? Why don’t you understand I don’t love you, I don’t need you and all I want is that you go away from my life once and for all? I don’t love you!

Devan seemed close to tears now. He pleaded-

Sweetie, please, I know I have wronged you. But never again in my life Khushi! I never loved anyone but you. Khushi the marriage was a blunder. I did not love that woman. She was a burden that my family had set upon me.

Khushi: Look I don’t want to lose AR’s reputation here or else I would have slapped you now. Don’t you have the least of shame to talk about your wife-

Devan: She’s not my wife. She never has been! You’re my life, my love, my everything Khushi. You are-

Devan stopped short, having been spied Arnav ending his phone call and heading towards them. Khushi apparently had seen it too and ducked down to wipe her eyes almost brimming with tears. He smiled wickedly inside, thinking about his next move.

**

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Update-17: Life to Live

Arnav sat on his Living hall working on his laptop. His insomnia was unstoppable even by medication of powerful depressants. Now the doctor had stopped giving medicines and recommended peace of mind. But peace comes with a cost, a cost Arnav was not willing to pay. Nowadays he did not even feel tired. People, he knew, whispered about OCD. And he sometimes doubted that yes maybe they were right. Even being the greatest businessman in the country maybe he was suffering in a kind of Obsessive Conclusive Disorder. Not that it mattered to him, nothing in the world ever did. He just wanted his old life back. Khushi and his Di.

The bell rang. He knew who had come, or the people who had come. Still he kept his eyes fixed on the screen, concentrating on the mail he was drafting. Soon someone opened the huge doors and he heard sound of feet. And then-

Chachu!!

6 years old Krishav Singh Raizada came bouncing towards Arnav. Arnav pushed the laptop away and hugged his nephew as he bounded on him. The little guy visited KH palace occasionally, and it was only then the halls of the huge castle got broken of its eerie silence.

Krishav Singh Raizada, only son of Akash and Payal Singh Raizada was 6 years of age. He had black untidy hair much like his father and the black were those inherited from his mother. Even in this small age he was not so much of a troublesome kid, only sometimes demanding gifts from his only uncle who now held him in his embrace.

Never once in his life did Krishav have the opportunity to see his uncle smile. But by blood instinct he knew that Arnav loved him. However Krishav was unaware of the fact that he was the only creature in the world Arnav would find peace in. Krishav reminded Arnav of Khushi and her wantings for a baby prince of their own in the future. That made him content.

Akash and Payal came, never speaking a word of greeting, only looking at Arnav’s exhausted face. Once he had been a sight to behold, strong, muscular, style, every girl would die for him. They still today would die for just one of his glances in that way. But his closest of people knew his darkest of pains. His body was harder than before, his muscles stiff, his mouth long forgotten to smile, his eyes, once so sharp and joyous now bore a dead look, cold and shallow. Within days he had changed to an aggressive, monstrous demon at whom the world has been afraid of for the past decade, a long mournful journey of a decade without his wife and without his sister.

Moments after Arnav raised his deeply lined face to look at Akash and then at his wife, Payal. All through the years they have been beside him alongside his Jijaji and Nani. As much as he couldn’t really show his feelings he was really grateful for being there by his side, even though he had become what he is- An unfeeling shallow beast.

Arnav slowly spoke, his voice raspy by the lack of use-

How are you doing Akash?

Akash: Bhai we are doing absolutely fine.

Akash smiled feebly but on the contrary Payal gave a huge warming smile, one Arnav known Khushi to posses. She said-

Arnavji, I will bring us tea ok?

Arnav nodded, talking quietly to Krishav and Payal left. Akash reached out and put his hand on Arnav’s shoulder, said-

You okay?

Arnav: As ever I will be.

-*-

I get Diya ready for her first day at the new school. I look around the living room checking if I had taken my phone with me. Diya loves the sun and enjoys the warmth, running a little ahead of me. I watch her as I walk, hearing the nonstop tune of waves crashing into the shore.

As I watch my little daughter of 10 I realize I came a long way. All these years in America taught me a how to be independent and I learned to be on my own, learned to not miss my husband, my lover. In those lonely nights, I still remember I cried, with no one to support me. And now I traced a part of my family here in Rhyl. They reside here in Larch Drive, in a duplex. She called it Ryan’s Ville, I wonder why.

Now as I walk further to reached Bryan Heydd’s I see my cousin, once my best friend walk up to the parking lot. I wasn’t expecting to see him here but I keep a calm pace, for I know he won’t recognize me. For I am now unrecognizable to who I am..or rather, was. My hair is shortened up to my shoulder, colored a light brown, my almond eyes hidden behind an ash pair of lens, my skin, once so fair and delicate, now tanned and dark. Yes, I knew it. NK strode past me without giving me a second glance, my dear little brother who was so crazy about me. Alas!

Diya runs back to me and kisses me on the cheek and then runs away again, off to her new school. I start to turn to trace my steps back to my apartment but a boy catches my eye. He looked the same age as my Diya, with an angry face and glaring eyes. Apparently he was arguing with one of his peers. However, his structure caught my attention. He was just so much like my younger brother, as if he were his son. The rectangle structured face, the furious eyes and ominous demeanor. I stepped closer, looking at him with interest. He even talked like him, gritting his teeth when angry.

As if being caught in a crime the boy wheeled around and looked at me. I observed him carefully. He was just like my Chotte, a carbon copy. His face relaxed somewhat but he said in heaving accented English-

Excuse me Ma’am, may I help you?

I was surprised at his cordial manner. He seemed a total little gentleman. My confusion increased. Could it be that Khushi was pregnant when she had left?

-*-

Aryan was agitated and angry. Things weren’t exactly going the way they had hoped. Nunkle needed to go to London by momma was insisting on knowing the reason. Both of them were so busy that they didn’t get time to search out some FTP servers and C Basic algorithms so that they can order online to be shipped. NK was busy with the restaurant while he was busy with his science presentation. This morning he found out his locker had been broken into and his project was stolen all because Gerald had irresponsible enough to let his locker key lying around.

But now looking at the lady with kind eyes he cooled himself down. His mom had taught him manners. He wouldn’t just let out all his frustration on a stranger now, would he? Strangely too, he found this lady familiar, even though he was sure he didn’t ever see her.

The lady smiled warmly. She asked-

What is your name child?

Aryan hated being called a child. It made him feel small for the rest of the world, unimportant. But he politely replied-

Aryan Singh Gupta, you can call me Ryan if you like.

Aryan saw as the woman lost her color. She gulped, raising a hand to her forehead, a failed attempt to steady herself. Aryan held her hand firmly and said-

Ma’am, are you okay? Shall you take a seat? Hey Gerald, quick bring a chair!

But the lady just whispered-

No, thank you. I will manage.

She staggered away and out through the gates of the premises. Aryan could sense something big had hit her.

**

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Update-18: Life to Live

Chachu, can I sleep with you today?

Arnav replied-

Sure Krishav, you can.

Payal: Krish beta, come here now. It’s your dinner time.

The four were sitting in the Living Hall. As Krishav and Payal left Akash tried to make conversation with Arnav. He said-

Bhai, can I get a straight answer?

Arnav knew it was coming. It always came. Two years into Khushi’s death Akash, Jijaji, Payal and Nani tried to convince him for another marriage. Life cannot be lived alone, Nani had said. They all had said similar things. But Arnav Singh Raizada, as in most of his decisions stood tall, stamping on the persuasions of a second marriage, every time. And now after nine years, again Akash visited after 7 months only to talk about this. They never lost hope but he had lost faith, faith in love, marriage and life. His life was a lie. He tiredly said-

Akash, we have been through this. And let me remind you the last time you asked me I didn’t give you a chance to ask and nor will I now. If you’ve anything else to talk about you can.

Arnav stood up to go, not wanting to hear what came next-

How are you living your life like this Bhai, all alone?

Arnav exited the room without giving a backward glance. They didn’t understand, did they? He was not alone. He lived in the memories of his little wife, his Khushi.

Akash sighed. He will never budge but it was worth a try. Akash didn’t know what to think. He knew Arnav loved them all. Then why was he hurting Nani again and again rejecting the proposals? No one can live alone and cold like this. And no one deserved this too, especially Bhai, bhai who gave all of them all the happiness in the world, who worked and spent selflessly, who gave all the love and respect to the family, who took all the responsibility of household matters on to his shoulder, who made all their problems his own and resolved them. Definitely this is not what he is supposed to get.

**

-*-

The rest of the weekend I brooded on my mistake, happy at the same time. How could I not be? I had a dear little nephew! My Chote’s and Khushi’s son! But what happened the next Monday I didn’t see that coming to be honest.

My work at the office was finished for the day and I started walking home. The sun had set, the sky a dark purple. People were returning from the beach, but still it was a small town, hardly any crowd on the lanes. I hurried to pick up Diya from the neighbor’s home, Mrs. Willibouy.

With every figure now turning into tall black shadows I didn’t see them. Not in time anyways. Suddenly that familiar voice called-

Momma, look the lady I met that day! Nunkle look!

My body tensed up as fear gushed. It was Aryan. I looked around and about me. There they are- Khushi and NK.

Bhagwan! Khushi actually looks older now! With the flannel shirt and full jeans she looked almost a native. NK was wearing baggy shorts and a bit wrinkled green t-Shirt, looking all American. I knew Khushi will recognize me. If not now, then she will figure it out later. And I didn’t want them to find me like this. A distressed lady who has no one to go to, all lonely in the world. But then I realized that this is who I have become and this is the real me. If I don’t share my pain with my family that whom do I share it with? I walked forward slowing, giving Khushi a chance to recognize me. I didn’t want to reveal myself. That would be shameful.

As I walked I saw Khushi’s polite smile fade off, her hazel eyes beginning to scrutinize me.

-*-

~~~~^~~~~

Khushi felt stiff. The women before was not a stranger. No, definitely not, something about her seemed familiar, so familiar that she suddenly felt uneasy. She glanced at NK who was scowling. She tried to smile but failed. NK elbowed her. He whispered-

I think my brain has stopped functioning but why does this woman look familiar?

Khushi again studied the person. The woman was pretty, her features soft and gentle, graceful. She was looking at them earnestly, as if a plea for figuring out something. She knew the look in those eyes but it can’t be. No ways! Not HER! But Khushi had long before learned to believe in the impossible. And now if the woman was HER then another impossible struck in her life. She turned thirsty and breathless as she squealed-

Di! You!

NK looked thunderstruck. His doubts had hit to be correct.

~~~~^~~~~

The two children were fast asleep in Aryan’s bedroom and Khushi crept out, turning out the lights and closing the door behind her. Lots of surprises today, Khushi thought. But she also knew there were surprises awaiting her when Anjali Di gives her an explanation about what had happened. She quickly went to her bedroom where NK and Di were sitting.

Khushi entered the room to see NK holding Anjali’s hands with his head on her lap, letting out silent tears. Khushi felt overwhelmed. Her best friend was here with her, after so many years, safe and sound. The next moment sadness filled her heart. Her Arnavji had no one, not her, not his son, not his sister, not his niece, nothing. He didn’t even know he had a son. She felt guilty and started crying, leaning on the door frame.

After what seemed like ages Anjali held Khushi and hugged her tightly. The women wept for a long time before settling themselves on the bed. Khushi held Anjali’s hand and kissed it, eyes threatening to spill new set of tears. Khushi asked-

Di, how are you?

Anjali: I am good. But I think I owe you an explanation.

NK: Di, it’s not like that. We also owe you an explanation.

Anjali smiled and taking a deep breath began her tale-

That night as the flames burnt I thought I was dying. Then I saw a dark shadow pass over. I knew it was Shyam. I tried to make as little noise as possible, tried not to shout out in pain. But then he knew I was here. He came over to me and said that I would die here, the whole thing was planned so I could be killed and that he would be the one to watch as I take my last breath and that would prove his true love for me. I knew he was right. But then a large block fell from amidst the fire on Shyam. The plank was on fire and he yelled in pain and ran out, howling.

The plank cut the fire on one of my side. I took off my flaming sari and found the entrance to be caved in. I had little strength left in me but I tried. At the end of fifteen minutes when my skin began boiling I made a space large enough for me to get through. I squeezed in and toppled over to the other side.

Later I staggered over to Shantivan. Just outside premises I spotted two accomplices of Shyam. I hid. But what I heard made my world go upside down. They were discussing among themselves and one was asking what the immediate plans are. The other told that if I go back then they will kill off the whole of our family.

I fled. As a Raizada I always had second citizenship in America, Australia and UK. I flew off to US by a private jet. There I learned I was pregnant with Diya. Diya came. I took up a job as an interior designer. It was tough settling in. It was tougher to bring up Diya as an Indian girl in the midst of Washington. Apart from these I then contacted Amanji. I was stunned to discover you were dead, and that too on that day, same time. Grief took over me and I had to take classes of counselors. I then found out that NK’s body was not recovered and drawn to the conclusions that he had gone missing. I was determined to trace him out.

And just last month I did and along with him I also found you, Khushi. You can’t imagine how happy I was. I moved in here last week.

**

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Update-19: Resolves Dissolve

What in the world?!

Khushi trudged home that Thursday night, tired after a series of long meetings. Payal had gone out to stay over at a friend’s house and the rest of the family had dashed to Lucknow for attending a funeral. As she opened the door she stared, baffled of her vision.

The small living room was lightened in the darkness. Little bunches of white and golden fairy lights were traced upon the brown floor, leading to her bedroom. Khushi called out cautiously-

Who’s there?

Upon getting no reply Khushi crept inside, shutting the door behind her. She was a brave girl and she would beat the hell out of the person who was trying to scare her. As she neared her bedroom she saw a white ray of light peeping through the almost closed door. She sucked in her breath and slowly pushed open the door. Her jaw fell open.

Every corner of the bedroom was flooded with soft lamp lights. There were royal bouquets of white and red roses placed on the shelves, her bed and on the working tables. Her poster bed was a pool of rose petals.

Khushi heard a swift movement behind her and spun around only to fall in a pair of arms. Her head shot up to look into Devan’s black eyes. They were filled with warmth, love and care, promising all the things in the world. As Devan smiled at her softly and breathed on her face Khushi felt everything dissolve. She only knew this much- She still loved Devan Vadhera.

Devan leaned in and whispered-

I love you Khushi.

Khushi softly said-

I love you too Dev.

Devan leaned in slightly to kiss…

~~~~^~~~~

She isn’t answering my calls!

NK was pacing up and down his room. Anjali sat on his bed, knitting and smiled. She said-

NK you worry too much. Chote had a series of meetings today. She must be tired out and fell asleep. If you keep calling her you will only wake her up.

NK: You don’t understand. She never does this. And I am more worried because today’s no one is at home. She’s alone.

Anjali’s smile faded as she frowned. She asked-

No one at home? Where are they?

NK: Payal didi’s gone to stay over at a friend’s house and Buaji, Uncleji and Auntieji have gone to Lucknow to attend a funeral.

Anjali: Then why didn’t you ask her to stay over here?

NK shrugged. He said-

You know she fusses a lot these days. All because of that ****!

From the restaurant meet up Devan had been following Khushi around. This pissed of her greatly and she now even didn’t want to leave for office in the fear of seeing Devan on her way.

Anjali: NK, you’re the one who’s fussing. Just relax. Khushi’s a big girl now if you’ve forgotten.

NK mumbled-

It’s just I have this weird feeling that Khushi’s up to something bad.

**

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Update-20: Resolves Dissolve

~~Four months later~~

She was the most beautiful bride on the earth. Her pale pink sari lazily caressed her milky skin accentuating her heavy jewelry. As she adjusted herself in front of the mirror her earrings swayed gently. Her long dark brown hair was tied up high in a bun, pinned up at several places. Her pink sari bore intricate and exquisite embroidery in golden fabric.

Khushi nervously looked at the mirror and then blushed. The day she was waiting for has at last come. The grand wedding of her to Devan. Khushi’s smile faded as she recalled the past months. From the day her Jiji, Anjali and NK had come to know about the reinstate of their relationship they were oddly distant to her. And now there was Arnav. This was the one person not present today. After her engagement ceremony he had gone to Dubai, not informing anyone about the exact date of his return. Khushi felt miserable all of a sudden.

~~~~^~~~~

Arnav came out of Delhi Airport wearing one of his grey Armani suits, pulling a brown carrier behind him. He could not remember the last time he felt so dreadful. This last two weeks at Dubai did not do him any good. All he thought about was her, she and her marriage with another man, not him. Arnav realized that he had fallen for her. And now he was back in India. But he had no intentions of gate crashing her marriage. No, he loved Khushi but her happiness was the priority. After all, her happiness was his happiness.

Trying to smile Arnav directed the driver toward the convention center where the wedding was taking place. As he sat back and closed his eyes he could see flashbacks of Devan inserting the engagement ring in Khushi’s delicate finger, Khushi’s blushing face and the couple hugging and posing for photos. A glint in Devan’s eyes made Arnav feel that maybe it meant nothing to him. But then he pushed the feeling away knowing it was jealousy.

~~~~^~~~~

I don’t know about you Di. But I am not talking to her!

NK and Anjali were looking after the last minute preparations. NK was wearing a blue sherwani and Anjali a green-black sari, her long hair sweeping behind her. When Anjali didn’t reply NK continued-

Why I am even here? Why are you here? She doesn’t need us. All she needs is that *******!

Anjali: NK stop! She’s an adult. Friends only can do as much as advise her. If she thinks she will be fine with Devan then let her go.

NK: She’s my best friend!

Anjali: She is Devan’s to be wife before anything else! Moreover she cares about us. I have seen how hurt she was when you put the cold distance between her and you. And it’s her marriage! If we don’t celebrate it then who will?

NK: Oh puh-lease di! Think for yourself. It’s not a marriage! It’s a well planned treachery to have Khushi’s monthly good bucks from AR. Didn’t you hear her that day, ‘I and Dev talked about this, he whole heartedly agreed that I will continue my job after our marriage. He loves me so much’!

Anjali sighed and walked away leaving a fuming NK to pop the balloon in his hand angrily.

~~~~^~~~~

Khushi was talking to Payal.

Payal: Khushi, Amma and Babuji have started from home. They should be here within the next half an hour.

Payal was now Mrs. Akash Singh Raizada. One month ago they had got married hugely celebrated by the families. As the sister of the bride she wore heavy makeup and a red-black sari with matching accessories, her hair tied in a ponytail.

Khushi: Where is Buaji?

Payal: Downstairs, yelling at all the workers for setting things right.

Both sisters giggled as Khushi’s phone rang. Khushi saw the name flashing- ‘Babuji’. Just as she was going to pick it up the uproar of drums and horns sounded. Both the girls yelled-

Groom party arrived!

In her excitement Khushi threw and left her phone at the dressing table where it continued to ring. They ran to the window seeing the crowd of people dancing, horses and cars, lights…

~~~~^~~~~

Life is unpredictable. Just half an hour ago Khushi believed it was her wedding day. And now it became her parent’s dead anniversary. She was standing in the morgue, two figures covered in white clothes lay in front of her, still and cold. She could not see Payal and Madhumati clutching to each other, could not hear their screams and screeches. She just stared, point blank, too shocked to even shed a tear.

Just twenty minutes ago when she was getting impatient with all the guests in the place her phone rang. Once again the name of her Babuji had flashed. She had picked it up only to fall unconscious in Devan’s arms ten seconds later. A voice of an unknown man had said that her parents’ faced a terrible car accident and was no more.

A hand was kept on her shoulder. And though the touch did not provide any comfort she felt herself being dragged, being pulled into the lightened corridor of DSC Hospital. The hand kept dragging her as hazy images passed before Khushi’s eyes, the screeching Payal, people sobbing, someone trying to console her and then Arnav’s tensed face as he looked at her.

Again she plunged into darkness. A cool wind blew clearing her mind and vision. She saw Devan in front of her. But what she really saw scared her. The eyes which were once filled with love and warmth now spitted anger. His mouth was hard and the whole thing had a demonic demeanor. Khushi focused on his face as he started talking, coldly-

Khushi, I am so sorry, so sorry sweetheart. You lost your parents. How I regret for not being able to save them? I am so sorry. But now I must go.

Khushi found her voice as dread filled her. She croaked, holding Devan’s jacket-

What do you mean Dev? What do you-

Devan jerked off her hand. He said-

Try to understand Khushi. You must let go. After your parents’ death..I cannot possibly stay. No.

The first of tears were forming in Khushi’s eyes as she said-

What are you trying to say? I need you, please.

Devan now almost shouted, harshly-

Why don’t you understand you silly woman I was here for your father’s house?! The house at Lucknow, his estate, Buaji’s house! He didn’t transfer it in your name, did he?! All the thing goes to your ******* sister, you get nothing! And all I get is some 50 thousand per month from your stupid job at AR! I don’t think so!

Khushi couldn’t believe it. Tears were pouring as the words registered in her head. Devan continued, anger reflecting on his every feature-

What did you think huh? No one would ever want to marry a woman like you, as stuck up and nagging you are! What did you think you bitc-

Slap! Devan clutched his left cheek. He looked on to see Arnav standing in front of him, his face flushed dark with anger and loathe. Slap! Devan hand raised up to his left cheek. He said with greeted teeth-

Get out you bloody *******!!

Devan opened his mouth to defend when another slap sounded on his left cheek. He turned slightly to glare at Khushi. Khushi stood frozen, unnerved at being slapped him. But her eyes were no longer pleading in pain. They were blank or rather raging with anger. She ferociously said-

Didn’t you hear him? GET OUT!

Devan knew there was no more than embarrassment left for him. He turned. Khushi called-

Mr. Vadhera.

Arnav turned to Khushi, baffled. Khushi glanced at him and then at Devan. She pried the emerald encrusted ring out of her finger and threw it at Devan’s feet. Arnav turned towards Devan, observing him monotonously.

Devan turned and went away. All was over. The game had ended.

As Devan walked out of the porch Khushi collapsed beside Arnav, howling.

**

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Update-21: Gathering Broken Pieces

‘Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow,

Creeps in this petty pace from day to day,

To the last syllable of recorded time;

And all our yesterdays have lighted fools

The way to dusty death. Out, out, brief candle!

Life's but a walking shadow’

It was month since her parents’ died, a month since her engagement broke. And three weeks since she moved into the house in Lucknow. She moved about quietly, forlorn and miserable, pouring herself a cup of coffee before she headed towards her new workplace- Ideal Grammar School of UP.

Tears are the words my heart uses

To explain that even my fake

Smiles can’t cover up my pain

And even though you’re gone

We’ll never be apart

Because no matter what the distance

You’ll forever be in my heart

She worked all through the day, trying to take interest on the class. Children were innocent, too innocent to see the pain she hid while she laughed and played with them, too innocent to understand. She came back home and sat on her window sill, even the tears were now dried. In the silence of the dark night she spent looking at the stars, wondering what was that she did that life had given her so much grief to overcome.

Some important conversations played through her mind, conversations she had with people who she cared about, people who she so selfishly had left, blinded by her own pain.

~~Some weeks ago~~

The people in the Raizada mansion were all in white. It was the funeral of the most respected and beloved Shashi and Garima Gupta. The servant’s moved about, passing around plates of food. There was only low murmurings and stifled sobs. Khushi sat aside with her Jiji resting her head on her lap and her Buaji stood near them, weeping. Khushi ran her fingers slowly through Payal’s silky hair, trying to soothe her pain when she herself was drowning in it.

The three lost track of time until Anjali came pleading them to have some food. Akash came and took Payal in his arms, letting her anew tears flow. Anjali and Nain were trying to feed Buaji. Khushi remained unresponsive, monotonous. No one could indulge her into having something.

Arnav finished some urgent work and came up to RM where his family was grouped. He spotted Khushi sitting against the pillar not replying to NK’s concerned questions. As soon as she saw him her tears welled up and she ran to his embrace, crying loudly.

After some hours Arnav carried Khushi to Akash’s room where the other family members were present. Arnav began-

So I wanted to discuss about Uncleji’s will. The lawyers have recovered it and this is what the whole thing summarizes into.

Uncleji made some alterations in his will right after Payal and Akash’s marriage. He clearly stated that whetever he had belongs to his wife who can decide what to do with the property. And now following the case of Auntieji’s death both parents had kept all their property to their adopted daughter Khushi

Khushi: What?

Arnav cut her off and said-

But there is a condition. If you, in terms of law, do not become Mrs. Vadhera, you get the property. Auntieji’s will revealed that since Payal was married and well off you are the one with the need. And then if you do not marry in the near future then you will be the sole owner of all the properties at Lucknow, Delhi and wealth in the bank account.

Khushi: but-

Payal waved her down. She said-

Are you sure not anything goes to the government? Cause if it does it’s going to be hard to claim it back.

Arnav: No, the lawyers have made sure. And in the case Khushi does not want any of the properties she can bid for it or share it with out or whatsoever.

Khushi: You’ve talked enough. Now hear me out. I want none of the property. It belongs to their only biological daughter, my Jiji.

Payal: Khushi you can claim me as your sister but not as their daughter. We were always treated equal and you know that!

Khushi: Jiji, try to understand, now in Amma Babuji’s death the entire things they ever had belongs to you and you only. I, in this case, do not come in the picture at all!

Payal: But Khushi why-

Arnav: Okay stop. Khushi, according to the will, you’re getting all the property. Now if you want you can sell or share them out. But we being your family have to warn you that you’ve got nowhere to go unless you take help of the things you rightfully own.

Khushi: Arnavji, I am perfectly capable. I earn 60 thousand rupees a year and can afford to live as a tenant with a perfectly decent house.

Nani: Bitiya, try to understand. You can’t work right at this moment. You can’t deny that you don’t need time. And why live alone when there are so many people who care about you?

Payal: And what if I don’t sign the papers which will legally transfer the property in my name?

Khushi: But Jiji-

Arnav: That’s it. You’re keeping the property for now and ever till any ups and downs of financial crisis comes your way. Payal must be getting sleepy. So end of discussion. Good night everyone.

As everyone proceeded to their rooms Arnav picked Khushi up again and took her to his room where she slept. That night Arnav fell asleep on his recliner, too tired to wake up as Khushi sat up on her bed. She packed up her few things and scribbled a note to be left in the dining hall. Then she exited the house. She wanted everyone to be happy- solution: Go away.

~~Present time~~

Khushi’s eyes were shut as the moonlight struck on her tear-streak face. She was fast asleep, hoping for a better day when she wakes up.

``~~Khushi’s Letter~~``

Dear all, I am writing this letter to apologise for all that has happened. If I would not have accepted Vadhera in the first place maybe Babuji and Amma would have been alive. Jiji, Buaji, please forgive me. I know you’ve been kind to me but you shouldn’t have been. Being an adopted girl, I was the one to ruin your family. I am sorry. Anjali Di, NK, I am ashamed. I was not a good friend and you’ve every right to be mad at me. I did not listen to you when I ought to. I was blind when you two tried to show me light. Sorry. Naniji, Jijaji I am sorry to be a burden on your shoulders until now, sorry for causing you so much trouble. And I am sorry I misbehaved earlier tonight during the discussion. Please forgive me. Arnavji, you might not ever forgive me because I am leaving AR. If you let me I will come back, but not just now. I can’t. I am really very sorry.

And now again, I am sorry for what I am going to do. Trust me when I say it’s hard for me. I am leaving RM, leaving AR and leaving you all. I know it’s really selfish but I just want some time alone. Please don’t try to contact before I am ready and contact with you all. And please forgive me for I am really very sorry. I really am.

Love

Khushi

``~~End~~``

~~~~^~~~~

Di, you don’t even know where she is!

Arnav was angrily glaring at NK and Anjali. The three were enjoying tea in the living hall when Arnav exploded. Anjali said calmly-

Chote, trust her. She’s a woman. She can take care-

Arnav: Damn, she can’t. She is a strong girl and I know that. But knowing the condition she went away I also damn well know she can’t take care of herself!

NK: Di, Nanav’s right. We don’t even know where she is and it has been more than a month. Not even a single call Di, not even a message. God forbid, but if she gets into any trouble then no one will ever know.

Anjali glanced at her furious brother and then a worried NK. She quietly said-

You know where she is. If you think she wishes to see you can go. But knowing her and knowing the pain she has been through I just didn’t think forcing ourselves on her would be a very good idea.

She left the hall and made it towards the stairs. Arnav defiantly said-

Yes, now that you mention it I think I know where she is. And I will reach out to her by tonight.

NK: I can’t come if you plan on going this week. If one thing I learnt from Khushi it is never leave things in between and I have my exams so.

Arnav muttered as he dialed Aman on his HTC-

Never leave things in between. That’s exactly what she did.

His PA received the call and Arnav now barked-

Get a ticket for the top airline there is available for Lucknow. Now!

**

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Update-22: Gathering Broken Pieces

It was night. Khushi slowly traced the rim of her tea cup. Winter was coming, she realized, as the cold wind hit her face. The moon had yet to become a full circle. Khushi had always loved full moons. It was romantic. She remembered the time she saw the full moon, in Devan’s arms, just some two months ago. She was so happy then, and now…

Khushi heard a car driving up and screeching to a halt. Strange. Cars in Lucknow? That too, in the dead of the night. Whoever could that be? Seems like someone pulled up in the very yard of her house. She slid down the window sill and made her way to the oak doors, lightening the tubes of the front passageway.

It was not before long she heard urgent raps on the door. She loudly asked-

Who is it?

A voice so very familiar replied-

Open up, will you? It’s cold out here.

Khushi was astounded. Wasn’t it Arnav’s voice?! What on mother’s haven was he doing here? She immediately pushed open the latch and revealed her boss.

Arnav was standing there with a black jacket zipped up halfway and matching trousers worn well below his waistline. His hair was disheveled with the wind but he was grinning unashamedly, his eyes twinkling.

Khushi forgot how to react. She eyed him from top to bottom, her face passive or rather shocked.

Arnav said, laughing mischievously-

Khushi, stop checking me out, you’re making me feel naked.

Khushi looked away but then smiled. She said-

Tracked me down, huh? Come in then.

She moved aside and Arnav entered with his driver following him with two luggage carriers and his laptop bag. Arnav dug his hands deep into his pockets and said-

Hi.

Khushi: Hey.

When Khushi didn’t add anything Arnav quickly said-

Look Khushi, if you don’t want me here I will step out now. I just wanted to make sure you’re doing okay. People at home miss you so much and they are all worried sick. But I understand that you need time alone and so if you..

Khushi kept staring as Arnav trailed off, unsure. Then she said-

You’re done with your talking Mr. Arnav Singh Raizada?

Arnav nodded his head like an obedient kid. Khushi said-

Then sit here, come.

Khushi motioned to one of the double sofas and they both sat down. Khushi said-

I am now going to talk and you’re not going to interrupt.

Khushi took a deep breath and held Arnav’s hand, surprising him a bit. She said-

I have been selfish and mean minded. I left when my sister needed me the most. I have been irresponsible. I left my job, not caring on how the business will be handled. I have been a bad friend. Instead of reconciling with NK and Di I came back here, showing that I could do without friends. And I have been disrespectful to nani, not obeying her wishes. I just got carried away, too much absorbed in my own pain. I forgot that others maybe hurting too. And Buaji lost his brother and Jiji lost her parents, real parents, people who she belonged to. Here I was, shallow and unkind brooding over my broken engagement to a man who never loved me. Interesting how unfeeling I have become. And now after hurting others, and after hurting myself so deeply I realize how mistaken I was. All this days allowed me to think and now that I realize, I really wouldn’t blame if everyone hates me.

Khushi was in tears and Arnav had listened patiently. He brought her close to him, looking into her sad and tearful eyes. He said-

Everyone loves you Khushi and the thing which really matters is that everyone understand. Each and every person you care about knows what it is to be hurt in love and I and Di, know what it is to lose parents. I know you’re an adopted girl but you are a part of your family, your parents are a part of you, all four of them. And you’re hurting as much as your Jiji. And you’re hurting more because of…

Arnav paused, tracing Khushi’s ring finger gently, where once the engagement ring sat, her fake engagement. Khushi, after a while asked-

Did you have your dinner?

Arnav: Yes, but I wouldn’t mind a cup of coffee.

Khushi smiled faintly, getting up-

My coffee stocks are done for. I will get some tomorrow. I will warm up my tea and you can share it. What say?

Arnav grinned and said-

Wouldn’t have it in other way.

Khushi walked off, smiling.

Happy days were knocking on their doors if they would only open and let it in.

**

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Update-23: Dry Leaves

Good morning Khushi.

Khushi peeped from under her sheet. Arnav was wearing black track suits, his hair wet from a shower. He was standing near the half-closed door, carrying two mugs of in a tray. Khushi silently grabbed her veil at her side and draped it around her before lazily sitting up on the bed. She said-

Good morning Arnavji.

Arnav entered and passed a mug to her and took a seat at the couch by the window. Khushi said-

I didn’t know you could make milk tea.

Arnav: Di taught me how to. She said when she gets pregnant she will have food only by me and Jijaji.

Khushi laughed and said-

Yes, after all you two are the most important men in her life.

Arnav: no, there are three and a girl. You and NK. Di loves you two.

Khushi: I know that. By the way this is good tea. Thank you.

Arnav: You’re welcome. I also bought some coffee in. (raised his mug) and here’s the newspaper. (handing over a set of newspapers to Khushi)

Arnav looked at Khushi as she set her mug aside and scanned the front page. She looked pale and had lost some weight. The dark circles around her eyes were prominent. Last night the light was dim and he couldn’t quite see her properly. Her arms were thinner and fragile than before. Her hair came down long and pretty, as if protecting her thin body. But she still looked beautiful in her blue sleeping suite.

Khushi skimmed through the pages feeling Arnav’s gaze on her. Surprising herself, she adjusted her knees the other way so he could get a better view of her. Then she convinced herself that she wasn’t flirting.

Arnav: Khushi you haven’t been taking proper meals, isn’t it?

Khushi: Of course I have been having my meals, why wouldn’t I?

Arnav: You lost weight.

Khushi smiled only slightly and then finishing the rest of her tea asked-

Its quiet here, isn’t it?

Arnav: It always has been. You like it here?

Khushi: I love it. I sometimes imagine myself growing old here in this very surrounding just the same way I grew up here as a small girl.

Arnav: Me too.

Khushi: You? Arnavji, you’re a tycoon. I expect you to love places like Washington or London. Frankly, I am surprised that you live here in India still when you could settle somewhere big.

Arnav: Khushi, firstly, I am not much of a fan of places you refer ‘somewhere big’. Secondly, Di and Nani love this country. Lastly, though I am a business man I like quiet and living among the nature.

Khushi: Living among the nature. I like the sound of that. I could spend a whole day walking along the rivers or through the shady woods. It’s exactly what I have been doing these weekdays when I am free.

Arnav: You’re free? I mean you work somewhere?

Khushi: Duh! You really think I could get three meals a day without an earning? I work as a teacher in UPGS.

Arnav: UPGS? That was the school I read in.

Khushi: I know that. (she grinned) Saw your name in the old head boys list in the principal’s office. Nerd.

Arnav: Excuse me?!

Khushi: I must tell this to NK. We could have a great laugh.

Arnav narrowed his eyes and Khushi got up to sit beside him. She said-

Now give me your phone. I want to talk to everybody at home. Today’s a Friday so we can later go for a walk.

Arnav: Now that’s a good idea.

The next two hours of the gentle morning passed as Khushi talked on the phone, Arnav unpacked his things into a spare room and then Khushi started to cook lunch.

Arnav came into the clean and spacious kitchen. He saw Khushi cutting vegetables, wearing a pink apron, trying to push of the lock of hair coming down her forehead. Arnav came forward and Khushi looked up. As if her eyes gave him the permission, Arnav slowly raised his hand to make contact with Khushi’s delicate skin. He could feel Khushi’s muscles contract with his touch. He slowly moved his fingers, almost lazily, as if caressing her was a habit. Then realizing how uneasy Khushi was he tucked her hair behind her ear quickly and moved his fingers away, cursing himself. He cleared his throat and asked-

Do you need help with anything?

Khushi was still unnerved and shakily replied-

Arnavji, why don’t you take a tour around the house?

It was a single floored house. The front yard was quite big with ornamental plants that had been well tended to. After a small porch with steps, the oak doors opened to a passageway that opened to a large Living space adjoin Dining. The hall was painted soft yellow with large and small portraits of families. At one side a little mandir was set with Devi Maya’s idol and fresh flowers.

From the furthest corner the open top kitchen could be clearly spotted. The kitchen gleamed. The cupboards and working tables were made a fine dark wood. The little two burners, a fridge, a rack and a red kitchen clock completed the view.

There were four bedrooms with joint balconies and bathrooms with each of them. The master’s room with beige carpet, white walls and a nice outside view of the countryside was now dusty and vacant. Buaji’s room was of dark brown walls with matching carpet and curtains. All the furniture was covered in white cloth. The spare room in which Arnav now stayed had a poster bed with pale blue walls and yellow carpeting. There was a window overlooking a silent road. Payal and Khushi’s room were decorated with posters of Salman Khan, Shreya Ghoshal and Shaan on the walls of sunny yellow strips in white. The double poster bed had stars hanging from them and there were working tables with old books and a large dressing table. A window looked over the quiet lanes of countryside with a couch set beside it.

Arnav came back and sat on one of the working tables and said-

I must compliment your house. It’s a fusion between old and new.

Khushi: Babuji was a man of old and new. He designed his house like that.

Arnav smiled. He asked-

Will I wash out this rice for you?

Khushi: Sure, one and a half pot. We won’t have much than that.

Arnav: I am looking forward to the evening walk you know.

Khushi: Me too.

They resumed cooking the lunch while the birds twittered outside, singing melodies of love.

**

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Update-24: Dry Leaves

So beautiful!

Khushi ran ahead of Arnav, tiptoeing and brushing her hands against the cool leaves. She was wearing a long white top with leggings, her hair still wet from the shower, un-bushed and natural. Arnav was wearing a half sleeve white polo shirt with full chinos.

The surroundings were breath taking. A cool breeze was blowing as Arnav and Khushi walked through the woods. The birds were twittering and frogs were calling in their hoarse voices. It was a cool evening of autumn, the weak sun sinking. The air smelled sweet. Arnav couldn’t want much more than to just watch Khushi wondering aloud about the beauty of nature. He said-

Khushi, now that we are here, I realize how much I missed doing this, walking among the woods.

Khushi ran back to him and said-

Yes Arnavji, that’s the same way I felt when I moved back a month ago. It was great to just sit underneath a tree feeling the cold hard ground while throwing stone into a pond.

Arnav: Oh yeah, the pond. Is it still here somewhere?

Khushi: Hell yes! It’s always been there, getting only deeper each year at monsoon. And now the new Chair Person even set up a wooden dock like place and put steps around it. We are actually walking in the direction of that pond.

They walked side by side, Khushi occasionally bumping into Arnav. Arnav remembered something and grinned. He asked-

Arnav: You know Latra Deva auntie?

Khushi giggled. She said-

Of course, who didn’t? I and NK used to fool around with her a lot, stealing jackfruits and mangos from her trees. She used to run a mile behind us and then she used to turn back and run another two miles back to Rahamat Chacha’s house to complain. Poor soul, she died last year.

Arnav was amused. He said-

She died? She was the only one who gave me a chase. She thought that I was Mohan, the chicken thief!

Khushi hit him on the arm. She said-

And you’re laughing?

Arnav just shrugged and smiled at her. They walked and talked for another fifteen minutes before reaching the Sheoli Paan, the pond they both had loved as children. Arnav grinned. It was really a beauty now than before. The waters were not green, but pink and golden, reflecting the sky above. There was a little harbor that stretched out into the water.

Khushi: Like it? I found this new setting really very nice.

Arnav: It’s romantic.

Khushi’s smile disappeared in a flash and Arnav felt to hang himself. Of course! Why did he need to talk about love when Khushi’s in such a sensitive condition?! Oh Devi Maya! Did he just take god’s name? Weird! He quietly said-

I am sorry Khushi. I know I shouldn’t have talked about that.

Khushi: No, it’s okay actually.

Khushi walked a little ahead of him, throwing back her head and staring at purplish sky. After a while she turned back and looked at the solitary figure of Arnav. She smiled and went back to him. Arnav did not smile. She said-

Trust me, wounds heal. And my wounds are in the process. It doesn’t matter that much now.

Khushi reached out and held Arnav’s big hand. She suddenly felt cold and shivered a bit. Arnav gently said-

I did tell you to bring a shawl.

Khushi: I enjoyed today’s walk. But that was just the part of it. Now we make our way back.

Arnav smiled. Hand in hand they began tracing their steps back to where they came from.

~~~~^~~~~

My legs are aching badly.

Arnav and Khushi were both dressed in sleepwear and were having the last cup of hot coffee and tea before bed. Arnav said-

That’s what happens when you work throughout the day and then even walk for three hours. Will I give you a massage?

Khushi: no, thank you. You must be tired. And oh, of course, I forgot to tell you. I have lots to do tomorrow. Go shopping, cooking and baking, wrapping gifts, cleaning and dusting-

Arnav: Khushi catch a breath. Is the President coming to this house day after tomorrow with all his army and officials?

Khushi: Very funny Arnavji. But no, much greater people than them are coming the following Tuesday. As I won’t be at home in up till evenings in weekdays so I have to finish all the work tomorrow.

Arnav: May I ask who are coming?

Khushi: Our people. My family and your family.

Arnav: What?! These people are what?! They are coming? Why!?

Khushi: (sarcastic) To see you of course.

Arnav: I know they are coming to see me..I mean you. But why so early? I wanted to stay here.

Khushi: Who’s kicking you out? Akashji will be there to handle the business. The ladies and NK are visiting.

Arnav grunted disapprovingly. Khushi said in glee-

I am so happy they are going to come!

Arnav mumbled-

A lot happier than you were to see me.

Arnav said goodnight and left as Khushi turned out the lights.

~~~~^~~~~

Khushi, are these home made?

Khushi turned around, her face and hands covered in flour to see Arnav holding up one of the muffins. There were trays of shapely, browed crusted muffins set on the working table. Khushi was still working into getting some mixture into the oven. She smiled and said-

Yes, I made them a while ago. Have one if you want or have it after a pour out chocolate sauce on top of them.

Arnav took a bite and his eyes widened. He said-

I didn’t know you baked so well. This is absolutely pro.

Khushi: Maybe, people love my baking. And thank you.

Khushi watched as Arnav devoured two of the muffins. She smiled but then it faded- Devan had also loved her muffins.

**

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Update-25: Cosmic Kisses

The days flew for Arnav and Khushi. Everything had now settled down except for one thing. Khushi was still in Lucknow and was declining to shift. Other than that it was now a regular routine to have two or three of the Raizada people always missing from RM. These ladies of Devyan, Anjali and Payal with the addition of NK and Madhumati alternatively kept visiting Khushi. Khushi had tried to persuade them not to come, knowing that it affects the Raizada household, in this case the superior Raizada men.

Akash and Jeet missed nothing except their wives when they were forced to sleep on their lonely beds. At nights they would sneak out have popcorns and watch movies. Arnav didn’t join them, he was still brooding about the constant presence of his family members in Khushi’s place, one of his major reasons for not going to visit Khushi. It was more than two months he hadn’t seen her smile and the only moment of talking to her on the phone had to be past 2 in the morning after his di and NK finished chatting with Khushi.

Then, in the middle of the freezing winter, Khushi at last drove all the women and NK out of the house and informed Arnav about it. That night both of them spent hanging on to their phones, talking and laughing, not anymore in the fear of waking Payal who had slept beside her.

Khushi was dressed in her suite, invisible by the two sweaters donned on top of it and then draped in thick woolly shawl.. She had a woolen cap over her ears and socks on her feet. Her cold fingers opened the door as a familiar rap sounded.

As Khushi opened the oak doors Arnav grinned, shivering a little. He was wearing brown jacket zipped up till his neck and looked pale with cold wind blowing on his face. He said-

Brr.. Super cold here isn’t it?

Khushi: You can see me to know it right?

Arnav stepped back and looked Khushi from head to toe. Then he grinned mischievously and said-

The old lady must have been cold.

Khushi hit Arnav on the arm and then they both brought in the bags. Khushi asked-

Now tell me, why couldn’t you come while the others were here?

Arnav held her cold hands and sat down in the couch. Khushi unwrapped her shawl and threw the other end at him. Arnav replied-

Because I couldn’t have talked with you all day long. They would make something big just by seeing me talk with you. You know, ladies.

Khushi: Oh! I guess you are right, but I missed you.

Arnav put his arm around her and said-

AR’s not the same Khushi. Even the employees miss you. And all day long I can’t just work. And AR is definitely in need of a Manager.

Khushi: I told you to recruit someone else!

Arnav: Then what Khushi? Fire the person when you return? All companies have a job commitment and you know that.

Khushi: Arnavji, I can’t go back to Delhi. Not just now.

Arnav: How do you manage Khushi? I mean I know NK’s bought all these speakers, home theatre, CDs and stuff, but getting 8000 rupees per month from a small school isn’t what you deserve.

Khushi: Fine, I have a laptop and I know how to use it. Why don’t I work from here? You can cut of a part of my salary for not attending meetings.

Arnav: Khushi, cutting salary is not the point. You talk smart. People get impressed by you. Just the day before we lost the EPC tender and I bet on everything I own that we could have make it if we were together.

Khushi: Isn’t there any other way?

Arnav: I don’t know, but for now let’s just have a cup of coffee.

Khushi: Good idea.

Arnav: And Khushi?

Khushi: Hmm?

Arnav: I missed you too. A lot.

Khushi smiled.

~~~~^~~~~

The clock was ticking 1 in the morning. They were talking quietly about their favorite movies, arguing and giggling. Then Arnav went to the kitchen to make hot chocolate. Khushi sighed, feeling content. She walked up to the front porch and silently stood, feeling the cold hair on her face.

Arnav came quietly and watched Khushi. She was looking a white angel with a white shawl across her body, her unblemished radiant skin, and her open tresses flying loose. He set the mugs on the table and went to her. She was shivering only slightly. She felt a shadow and looked up into Arnav’s chocolaty eyes. His eyes were so beautiful with that moonlit benevolent twinkle.

Arnav looked into Khushi’s deep hazel eyes. They were glazy with intense emotions written within them, not the cheerful dancing emotions. But a warm welcome, a happiness that is conveyed to the very soul. They lost themselves at that moment, completely letting go of all the past happenings.

Arnav huskily said-

I will give you a massage, come.

He held Khushi’s hand and brought her to the couch. Then he slipped of her socks, feeling her smooth shining skin underneath his fingers. He sat in front of her on the carpet, running his hands swiftly across her ankle.

Khushi shut her eyes at his gentle touch, so warm and comforting. She was aware that her short leggings, now that the socks were removed, only came down a little below her knees. Khushi felt adrenaline rushing through her body as her nerve endings fried. His touch was now getting stronger as he rubbed her foot and toes.

Arnav didn’t know for how long but he then looked up and saw Khushi staring at him. She was bolder, stronger, a woman, an adult. And her eyes said all the things he ever wanted to hear from her. He slowly released her feet and rose to look at her fully. Then once they read each other’s face they knew it was futile to try to hold back.

Arnav initiated. He inched slowly toward Khushi and then brought up his hand to caress her face, to know that he got the correct signal. Khushi closed her eyes as his fingers ran across her closed eyelids, burning cheeks, red nose and pink lips. She shivered and then gave in. It was haven as Khushi tugged on Arnav’s collar and pulled him closer. Their lips met with unknown desires, uncontrollable passion.

Arnav’s hands now went around Khushi and with a jerk she pushed their bodies up and then again kissed Arnav. Arnav responded fully and as they kissed, Arnav shifted around and then pushed Khushi against the wall. Khushi shrugged of her shawl, Arnav’s heat taking over her. Arnav ran his hands up and down Khushi arms making her cling on to him and kiss him with even more fury.

Khushi shuddered against Arnav as his hands buried in her hair. She clutched onto Arnav’s neck feeling him kissing her face wordlessly. Their lips met again. They kissed for a long time, twisting and molding into each other. Arnav whispered-

Khushi. I…I..Khushi..I..-

Khushi’s phone rang out of nowhere. Khushi’s eyes flew open, finding Arnav a few centimeters apart from her. She sprang away as the bitter truth seeped in, her broken engagement! And she..she kissed her Jiji’s brother in law!

Arnav felt suddenly tired and exhausted. Whatever happened was not supposed to happen! He had convinced himself he would give her time, the time she needed by keeping a distance from her. He had promised himself before he came. As he saw Khushi burst in tears and run and slam the door of her room he knew all had ended.

Or at least he that’s what he thought. Until the coming morning.

**

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Nov 4

When You Came Into My Life (By Monali98) (Thanked: 31 times)

Update-26: Cosmic Kisses

Arnav had thought of unpacking his luggage in the morning. He had planned to stay with her for a whole month this time. So much to make out of his plans. He sighed looking around. Khushi’s bedroom door was still shut. His luggage was assembled in the living room and he would be now leaving, leaving without telling Khushi, leaving to never come back again, leaving her once again truly broken. He knew how much Khushi would try to hide it and forget it NK and Di would get it out of her. And when they do, well..Arnav didn’t want to think about it.

The morning was cold and the fog did not even allow vision a few feet away. Arnav could vaguely make out his car as he stepped onto the porch, guilt eating him up. He heard a soft noise and felt a swift movement. He turned around to see Khushi, all wrapped up in shawl, standing there, looking at him intently, her eyes a little puffed and red. As he saw her all the memories of last night flooded through him. He looked away. Khushi gently asked-

You going somewhere?

Arnav looked at her, vexed. Her tone was so calm and quiet. She reached out for his hand and held, closing her eyes, feeling the softness of his palm. She asked cautiously-

Would you believe me if I told you that I don’t regret any thing which happened last night?

And Khushi was saying this. Arnav couldn’t have been more surprised. What, she did not regret the kiss? Did she feel the same he felt about her? Arnav looked at Khushi. She had known how to love, but she never really knew what love was or what it really felt to be loved. Arnav decided, now that he was given a chance, would show Khushi all that. Relieve gushed through her veins and he broke down in a smile. He said-

Khushi you don’t even know how much you-

But he couldn’t finish his sentence because Khushi had gone on tip toes and kissed him, her hands locked behind his neck. Arnav’s hands shot up to her waist as he responded and then kissed back, on her chin, cheeks, nose and eyes. Her feminine scent drove him crazy.

They broke the kiss after a while and went inside. The sat on the sofas and Khushi said, caressing Arnav’s face lightly-

Sorry for last night. I didn’t mean to hurt you.

Arnav pulled her into an embrace and stroked her sweet-smelling hair. He said-

It’s okay Khushi. I am just happy because everything turned out fine, or maybe, more than fine.

Khushi pulled back and smiled. Her cheeks were red and she looked down, blushing. She had kissed Arnav! She initiated! She gently said-

I will go unpack your bags.

Arnav let her go, watching her closely. She looked happy but not enough. The happiness in her step was not comparable to the happiness in her eyes when she first glided into her office and informed him that she was getting engaged. But then, the happiness there was for love. She had truly loved Devan. And now unashamedly Arnav had fallen in love with her. For Khushi, kissing him now was maybe just out of the bond of closeness, dependence and trust but for him it was so much more. Arnav also realized he needed a friend to confide in, because unlike Khushi he had never fallen so deeply in love.

~~~~^~~~~

Di, believe me, there is something brewing.

Anjali and Payal was working in the kitchen in white aprons above sweaters. Payal was false crying because of the onions she was cutting through and Anjali made an impatient face at NK who was propped up against a working table. Anjali asked-

I wish you had class today. But anyways, could you care to explain Nandunu?

NK: Stop calling me that! Freaking pet names!

Payal: NK, go on. What is brewing and cooking or whatever?

NK: Di and Didi, I just talked to Khushi.

Payal + Anjali: So?

NK: Khushi was happy. I mean super happy. I hadn’t heard that cheerfulness in her voice even when we were around. And suddenly Nanav goes and-

Anjali abruptly stopped stirring the dal to look at NK, shocked. Payal stopped false crying and her lips parted in surprise. NK took a cold mood and said-

Yes ladies, you heard right, Nanav Singh Raizada went up to Lucknow. Apparently, he is planning to stay in for a fortnight or two.

Anjali recovered and almost shouted-

Chote’s there!? With Khushi?! How come I didn’t know about it?

Payal: Yes, wasn’t it just yesterday afternoon he said he was going to Agra for a meeting? How come the change of plans?

NK: Didi, duh! He likes your sister, my best friend, our Khushi. That’s what I am saying. But here’s the-

Anjali: Let me get this straight. Chote lied to us and left for Lucknow?

NK: No, by the sounds of Khushi what I have gathered is Khushi was trying to throw us out of the house so that Nanav could go. As soon as we left Khushi called your dear brother and he made his arrangements. And now he is there with her!

Anjali: I never even would have given a second thought of imagining Khushi with my Chote!

Payal: Yes. But maybe that’s because we always imagined Khushi with that r****l.

NK: Oh ho! You two are hopeless. Let me finish first! Khushi was just in the middle of telling me something when she gasps and then giggles and then shouts ‘Arnavji!’ and then I hear running footsteps and more squealing as the phone gets cut. So there you go.

The ladies were trying to digest this. After a minute Payal said-

Something is definitely brewing!

Anjali looked thoughtful as she said-

They have grown up. They will know what to do.

~~~~^~~~~

Khushi.

Hmm?

You’re the best thing there ever was you know that?

Khushi smiled. In the evening light her face reflected off the golden sunrays. Arnav’s arm was wound around her waist as they sat on the damp grass, chilling air rushing past their ears. The two were out for a walk when Khushi led Arnav to a lake side. Arnav felt content to be with Khushi. Khushi snuggled into his into his hard chest and smiled. She said, her voice rumbling from somewhere buried within him-

I have never felt this happier in days Arnavji. Thank you, for everything.

And then as time wore on and the winter sun slowly sank Arnav could feel Khushi sobbing, crying out tears of happiness that were still to come.

Arnav pulled Khushi in his hold and looking into her teary eyes pleaded-

Please Khushi, please don’t cry. Everything will be fine. I promise.

Khushi released her tears once more, the little strength of trusting someone returning again.

**

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Update-27: Seeking

Khushi was confused. As the days rolled on Khushi felt Arnav’s strong attachment to her. She felt Arnav caring for her, his feelings seemed much stronger then what it felt the first time he kissed her. Only that Khushi was vexed. Could she risk letting herself go again? Could she fall in love again? These were questions Khushi did not know the answer to. But for two things she was sure- She didn’t have another heart to lose, she couldn’t deny the fact of getting attracted to Arnav intimately. Spending time with him made her realize his wanting for getting to know her. It was strange for her. Because the only other man in her life was Devan and they didn’t talk much except about himself and his work. And definitely Khushi’s feelings were not a temporary infatuation. Did it mean she was falling love? Khushi pushed the thought aside. There were other worries inside her head- Society.

Arnav was sitting on the bed, sorting out some work on the laptop. Khushi came into his bedroom and sat beside him, frowning. He looked up and asked-

Something wrong?

Khushi shifted uneasily looking outside the window as if afraid of being overheard. She replied-

Yes. Everything’s wrong. How could I not think about this? Hey Devi Maya!

Arnav smirked. He moved over and put his arm around Khushi’s shoulder. He laughingly asked-

What is it Ms. Gupta, burnt your cake again?

Khushi shoved him off and indignant, replied-

People. I should have thought about this. Arnavji, things here is quiet but when something happens it spreads like flu. And on top of that you being you I also have the media to worry about. Oh no!

Arnav: Me being me? People, media? What are you on about Khushi?

Khushi: You don’t understand do you? When you left to come here and work the ladies started asking weird questions about you. It didn’t take much time for me to realize what they meant?

It was a Saturday evening. Khushi’s work place opened tomorrow and some fellow colleagues had come to discuss the plans for the New Year. In the process, the conversation had drifted from studies to society and then finally pointing out Khushi that Arnav’s staying with her under the same roof, both being unmarried was not exactly what Indian society accepts.

Khushi finished explaining the conversation and said-

And I haven’t thought about the media. You had gone public with my recruitment and if these people get to know that..

Arnav: Khushi, take a breath will you? I came privately and the media people all consider me to be in Turkey. Except you, my family and some people here who recognize me as the owner of AR no one knows my real location. And I also know that some journalists have been scooping up information for the inside story of you leaving AR so suddenly but I paid them off and forbade them even thinking of publishing anything on you. So there.

Khushi looked suddenly apologetic. She reproachfully said-

I am so sorry. You must have given big bucks to shut them up.

Arnav pulled Khushi in his arms and said-

Khushi, its nothing. Forget all these. I will go away to Delhi in a week and tomorrow’s your one of the two offices are opening so I wanted to come in UPGS myself.

Khushi smiled and pecked him affectionately on his beardy cheek and said-

Of course you can. But before, you’ll need to shave.

After a pause she said-

Do you really need to go away?

Arnav looked at her sadly. He tried-

Khushi, come back to Delhi. Please.

Khushi looked away. She firmly said-

That is not an option I would consider in the near while. I am not telling you that I can’t come. All I am saying that I need time. I hope you understand me.

Arnav, annoyed, released her and said-

Then don’t ask me because I have to go to Delhi. Because that’s my home and unlike you I am responsible for my work and dedicated to my family.

He scrambled down from the bed and made his way towards the door when he heard a stifled sob. Khushi gently said-

I know I am very irresponsible to my work but unlike you I neither have a home nor any family. Jiji’s now Akashji’s wife and I Buaji had been always distant. So no, I can’t go back.

Arnav saw the eyes filled with tears and felt helpless. He could have killed himself for being so cold. He ran to her and embraced her, kissing her hair. He said-

I am so..sorry Khushi. I didn’t mean to.

Khushi sobbed for a while. She wanted to be happy but failed every time. That night Arnav stayed beside Khushi kissing her forehead long after she had drifted off to sleep.

**

I know this update sucks but i i had to give a filler update to let out Khushi's feelings towards Arnav. I won't mind if you bash me up for returning after two days with a BOOORING update. I am actually too sad with Anee's leaving to concentrate on anything.

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Delete this update.

Replace this update.

Nov 7

When You Came Into My Life (By Monali98) (Thanked: 22 times)

Update- 28: Seeking

The UPGS sign board was a bit dusty. The walls around the building with its four fields were of red bricks. It was afternoon and some senior students were playing football, some walking around indolently with their friends. Soon they will have their classes and the juniors will come out for their last playtime before dispersal. Khushi will be there with them, with the four graders. With this thought Arnav entered his old school.

His memory didn’t jog when he looked around. All seemed to be different, nothing at all when he left his school at 16 for moving into Delhi. At his time the fields were unkempt with ugly weeds and damp grasses and wild plants. Now the only grass was mowed so short that it did not feel a bit damp in this cold weather. Arnav noticed the uniform had changed, so had the mannerism of the few students in sight. Instead of blue ties and blue trousers with white shirts, most of the boys had long messy hair, some wearing Man U jerseys over their uniforms and some a loose brown t-shirt with the school seal on it.

Arnav enjoyed 20 minutes out in the weak sun, exploring the vaguely familiar settings. He soon discovered two things still there- the large oak tree and the small deep well. He, from the corner of his eyes, noticed some girls wearing blue skirts throw him interested glances. Arnav again thought about Khushi- his crazy fandom drooled over him, wanting so much of a glance but Khushi, she had been indifferent and that is what made her different. At that moment he wished to tell her how much he loved her but knew he couldn’t.

Break time came. Arnav patiently waited, watching from a distance. Many children appeared and started chattering, squeaking and giggling. Then came Khushi, conducting a flock of active kids. Arnav looked on as she talked animatedly and picked up a little girl, giggling with him. In her ankle-length marigold dress and silver earrings she looked like an angel sent from haven, only for Arnav.

Khushi was actually tensed. What if Arnav came and wrapped his arms around her as a greeting? It won’t be a pleasant example to the juniors and then a pleasant sight to her colleagues. She looked around, scrunching her eyes. Then she spotted him. He was wearing casual- wrinkled brown chinos and a Prussian shirt, his wet hair pulled back with a comb. He stood out, looking handsome without making an effort. He was smirking, coming towards her, as if he knew what she was scared off.

Arnav came and stopped short. Did Khushi think he was that dumb to kiss her in front of children? Though he would have very much liked to. He spoke-

Hey Khushi.

Khushi straightened up after letting go off the child on her lap and smiled, somewhat nervous-

Namaste Arnavji.

Khushi’s eyes showed warning and Arnav knew to be formal. He bent down on his knees and asked the kids who hadn’t gone off to play yet-

Hello fellows, how are you all?

Their faces showed no interest and Khushi knew they thought Arnav to be a boring adult to give them a lecture. She also went into bending position and laughingly said-

Guys no need to be disrespectful. He is a harmless man not here to give you an earful!

The students laughed. A boy asked-

What’s your name sir?

Arnav smiled and replied-

I will tell my name if you all tell me yours.

Introductions were made. Khushi watched wondrously as Arnav played cricket with the kids. Khushi, as always had to play running and catching with the girls. But her focus was on Arnav who talked and smiled with the boys, as if they were his pals. Khushi’s respect for him only increased.

~~~~^~~~~

Yes! Another point for me!

That’s not out. The cork’s in your court! See!

Arnavji, you need glasses, come and see for yourself!

Arnav and Khushi were bickering, again on the points. They had many points of interest that matched, one being badminton. And both liked playing the sport in winter, just as they were doing now, or rather two minutes ago. Now they were arguing.

Arnav had drawn a court in chalk mark on the yard. It was a chilling night and the lamp lights were turned on for better vision. Talking about vision, according to Khushi, Arnav seemed to have lost it. He came over inspecting the cork and the rough ground. He said-

Khushi, it’s in the line. See the cork is on the chalk mark. I get the point.

Khushi: You always say this when we come to the game point.

Arnav: Khushi, as you said, it’s the game point. You can’t mess with that.

Khushi: As you said, you can’t mess with that. This is my win.

Arnav: Wrong. This is my win.

Khushi: My.

Arnav: My.

For the next five minute they went on ‘my’ –ing. Arnav abruptly stopped, and looked at her. She looked absolutely hot, her forehead glistening with sweat, her eyes full of life and energy, lips invitingly parted, breathing softly. She had taken off both of her jackets, revealing a sleeveless paisley top, her muscles rigid as the cold wind hit her arms, the black trousers hugging her slender thighs.

Khushi felt her cheeks getting hotter even in this cold, she had to be blushing. Arnav was looking at her with such intensity. How could she not? And then she shyly looked at him. In this weather he was now wearing on a white vest, his muscles glaring at her, teasing her brutally, with loosely worn track pants. Her eyes traced a bead of sweat that crept down from his forehead, his captivating eyes and highly kissable, as she now knew, mouth.

Arnav started advancing towards her. Khushi felt weak on her knees. Then her knees gave away as Arnav pulled her by the waist and kissed her without a word. Khushi’s hand went up to Arnav’s strong arms, running her fingers on the taut muscles. Arnav pressed her against him kissing her gently, tasting her sweet lips with closed eyes. One arm traced her spine as Khushi shivered and clawed his back. She also closed her eyes letting herself drown in the moment. They pulled back, holding each other for support, their breathing hitched. Arnav began running his fingers across her milky arms and Khushi rubbed her hands on his broad chest, making them warm.

Khushi kissed Arnav all over the face, letting her lips linger on his skin before nuzzling in his neck and allowing herself to be carried in Arnav’s safe arms.

Both were so lost into each other that they failed to notice a camera flashing at a distance, directed towards them.

**

Update-29: This is Our Song

Khushi was cooking some lentils, the steam getting into her face. She coughed a bit when two strong hands held her fast and pulled her away. She stopped coughing and eventually leaned back and smiled a little. Arnav rested his head on her shoulder and breathed in her scent. He whispered-

Khushi, it’s my last day here. If you remain sad and pretend to get all caught up in work then your poor Arnavji will be miserable.

Khushi’s smile faded and she tried to jerk off from Arnav but he held her only firmly. She grumbled-

I don’t own you Arnavji, let me go. I have work.

Arnav: Stop complaining Khushi. Come, let me help you in the kitchen and then we can take a long walk along the stream in the evening.

Arnav released Khushi and they worked on preparing a small lunch. Arnav observed Khushi’s fallen face all the while feeling stabs of unexpected pains through his heart. Maybe this was known to be truly in love. Over this one month Arnav had gone so used to having Khushi around, kissing her, speaking to her he doubted Delhi treating him well.

Khushi was so sad. If he had to go away why did he come in the first plans, that too staying for a month? Khushi now didn’t know how to cope up alone anymore. Arnav had become more of a friend of hers. She will miss spending time with him, watching him as he worked on his laptop or just looking deep into his eyes, holding on to his neck. She will miss him so much. Why will she miss him so much?

~~~~^~~~~

It was all dark when they returned from the walk. Arnav released Khushi’s hand as they reached home. Outside the house, on the porch Khushi spotted a dark figure. They approached the house and the silhouette became clear.

The man was capped, wearing a black jacket and glasses. As soon as he saw them he strode towards them. Khushi instantly knew that he was sent for delivering Arnav something important. Her recognition gave away to confusion- Arnav was going away tomorrow afternoon, then why this delivery?

Arnav saw the man and knew him to be one of AR’s delivery servicemen. At last Aman sent it, he thought, smiling. The man held out a wrapped package to him and said-

Good night sir.

Arnav nodded his acknowledgement and said-

Thank you. And you can tell Aman that I am not very pleased seeing how time he took to send this.

The man went away biding Khushi a good night. Khushi looked curiously at the brown paper package then asked-

What is in it Arnavji?

Arnav: I will show it later.

Arnav unlocked the door and entered without further answers to Khushi’s questions.

Khushi came back from washroom, droplets of water falling on her beige suit. She frowned seeing her bedroom door closed. Her forehead ceased even deeper spotting a package wrapped in red paper sitting o her bed, a paper lying next to it.

She tucked a lock of hair behind her ear and bent down to read the heart-filled paper. Khushi grinned reading on-

My dear Khushi,

I know I am not at all good in writing letters, especially letters to a person I care the world about. But still I am going to say all I want to say. Khushi, this past month with you was a boon to me and I treasure every moment I ever spent with you. For me, you feel the right one, just the only one. You make me want to live this world and make most out of my life. You have been the one in my happiness, sadness, loneliness and excitement. You have been my inspiration. You have been all I never expected anyone to be. As I write this all I want is to stay here longer, stay here with you, forever. I told you before, I have been with women before, and fine women they were, what I didn’t tell you that no one is compared to the place you hold in my heart. No one made me feel anything; I was unmoved, indifferent to all. But you, I wouldn’t tell that I fell for you at first sight and I don’t even know when I fell for you but now that I have, I realize I have always been in the search for someone like you. Not even some like you but you, just you, the one lady in this world. I won’t say much further because I know you need your time, considering you deeply wounded you were in love. I don’t even need to know what you feel for me, not just yet. Just let me stay by your side forevermore. Always keep smiling.

Arnav

By the end of the letter tears were rolling down her golden face. She hugged the letter into her bosom, crying. He was so sensitive that he had said all carefully avoiding the conclusion- I love you. After moments in silence Khushi picked up the parcel. It was addressed to her and she opened the lid, knowing what was within. It was a sari of deep red, the kind of red which do not give warning, nor the red of blood. It was the color of pure love. The rims were done in golden embroidery, the fabric sheer silk, almost like butter. The skirt was of the same color while the sleeveless blouse was of shiny golden. Two velvet boxes were also set aside. The flat one contained a gorgeous diamond neckpiece with earrings dented with red precious stones. The round one contained bangles of all color- red, blue, golden, green, yellow, white and black.

Khushi smiled knowing Arnav wanted to make this one night special. She changed herself in his gifts, winning her curiosity of opening her bedroom door and peeping at Arnav’s doings.

She stood before the mirror. The effect was good, romantic, and even sexy. The silk sari draped around her curves gracefully, her slender waist mostly visible. Khushi adorned the simple jewelry with light make up and put a bindi on her forehead. The bangles clinked as she moved around her arms, fitting the sari one last time. She wanted to look perfect for Arnav.

She came out observing the surroundings with pleasant surprise. The dining hall and living space were bathed in soft candle light and there were huge bouquets of red roses place everywhere around the two rooms, sending a flowery scent to her nose. The dinner table was set with more candles of various shapes, colors and sizes completed with vases of flowers. Their dinner was laid down- besan paare, black eyed pea salad, cabbage kofta, gajar matar, creamy spinach pasta, paranthas and yoghurt. She eyed the food hungrily.

Suddenly Arnav appeared on the other side of the room, out of his bed room. Khushi just stared. He looked so handsome. He wore black three quarter jeans with a white shirt, his sleeves rolled up to his elbow. His wet hair was ruffled in a boyish way, an unkempt style Khushi had never seen. The upper two buttons were gaping open, allowing a view of his hard chest muscles.

Arnav’s heartbeat accelerated at the sight of her. Yes, he was the one who had designed the sari for himself, but never in his wildest of dreams had he imagined Khushi to be as stunning as this. The silk was just lightly spread over her curves accentuating her structure. The blouse, low rounded neck, exposed part of her cleavage. She had worn the diamond necklace which shone against her delicate skin. The earrings peeped from behind her long open tresses. Her eyes were ringed with kohl and sweet lips with pink gloss. Arnav cold have ravished her then and there.

Arnav came towards her and kissed her softly on the lips, both closing their eyes. Khushi kissed Arnav again as he took her hand and led her to the dining table to have their meal. Both ate, Khushi complimenting the food, Arnav complimenting her appearance. They laughed, talked and kissed again as Arnav brought in dessert- hard baked brownie with chocolate sauce.

Later on Arnav went away briefly and played some music in the player. He slowly came to her and took her hand, kissed it, and led her to the cleared Living hall. He put his arms around her, pulling her close against him. He could smell Khushi’s sweet fragrance as he bent down to kiss her again.

Khushi was overwhelmed by the strength of his feelings. She put her arms around her neck, drawing him close, resting her nose against his as they swayed to the music. Arnav kissed her for the longest time, caressing her back and her face. He kissed her forehead, feeling her sink into his arms. He murmured-

Khushi I will be back before you can even miss me. I promise. Do you like this night?

Khushi lifted her eyes to look into Arnav’s, they were so warm and trusting, and now seeing her sparkly reflection in his dark chocolaty eyes, Khushi knew he was close to tears. He didn’t want to leave her. Khushi also realized something else- she had fallen in love again.

~~~~^~~~~

Some miles away a man threw a glass, shattering it into a million pieces seeing the photos of that girl with another man, kissing.

**

Hard to understand where i will take shelter considering the serial will end just after a while and this beautiful forum will close down forevever. Till date i have never visited pages of other serials' other than my lovable IPKKND. Thinking of moving onto 'Honge Judanaa Hum's page and start acquaintances there after IPKKND shuts down. Love Barun, Sanaya and all the cast who are fighting against Gul's plot. Why don't they just end the show with positive note instead of leading into crappy plots and forcing the show off air!?

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Update-30: This is Our Song

It was a cold morning that appeared next day. The mist had thinned and winter was going away just as soon as it had come. The dry street looked towards hazy shapes of green at a distance. A cool breeze blew the little dust around as Arnav and Khushi walked, hand in hand.

Khushi was wearing a blue shawl over her full sleeved suite. She was feeling low, just a matter of hours and Arnav will go away. She looked over at Arnav who was looking up at the pinkish blue sky of dawn. He did not blink as the birds flew across or when Khushi squeezed his fingers, seemed like he was taking in all that would be lost sometime from now.

They walked in comfortable silence and soon reached the cart shop. The cart was more of a minivan selling tea and freshly backed buns. There were two rackety wooden benches lined and the duo went and sat opposite each other.

The owner of this small bakery, Khalid Chacha, wished Arnav and Khushi a good morning asking them what was it that brought them brought them up so early. Arnav replied-

Chacha, I am returning to Delhi on noon’s flight today. So we decided I give a last visit before I leave.

Arnav and Khushi had made a point to visit this teashop every day of Arnav’s stay. Khalid Chacha was a wise man from childhood and almost after a decade, getting reacquainted with him brought some good old days back.

Some hours after that Arnav had kissed Khushi goodbye while she tried to keep her composure.

With her companion gone, days flew past for Khushi. She now worked at laptop all day, even attending meeting through video conferencing. Other than that life was pretty much the same with the Raizada ladies visiting now and then.

At weekends she went up to the town to see spring carnivals with friends. She went on long walks and talked to Arnav all through the night. And then she found out NK and Anjali suspecting about her and Arnav’s relationship. It didn’t bother her much except for one thing which kept nagging her- If Arnav loved her why didn’t he say so?

Arnav was a busy man, she knew. Now after going back to work after a month, large assignments compiled up on him. Initially, he used to talk to her up to 3 in the morning. But now Khushi didn’t receive his calls explaining that he would have to get some rest to survive through the stress and tension of the company. On these dark nights Khushi sat up in his bed going through Payal’s wedding album and reliving all the happy memories.

At the end of January Khushi heard the good news. NK would be graduating soon! Khushi knew this was something she couldn’t miss for all excuses. She was in the country and she had to go. Though reluctant at first Khushi was soon happy on the prospect of meeting Arnav and the family again. She would go to Delhi. Yes she would, but only for a fortnight.

*

I feel nauseated, completely taken aback. As I look at those ripped photos I feel absolutely disgusted. Now what? All these months I have planned it all. That Vadhera messed it all! If he would have married the girl then I could kidnap her and got what I wanted. All these months she was alone, why did I wait?! Oh god! Now she’s with another man and goodness knows who that is. How am I supposed to get Anjali if Khushi’s with another man? She was my only hope. I must do some background research on the bloody b****** in this photos!

I look out from my dark den to the world outside. The sun was just rising over the city of Delhi. The man I heard moved in from Lucknow to Delhi. Well, I have waited all these time to get the information. Now today I go to Lucknow to meet Khushi Kumari Gupta, after 7 years! Oh how much I loathe her!

*

Her train was in two hours. With all her luggage packed and booted in the car sent by NK, Khushi was doing the last minute checking on the house when the light of her bedroom door went off and the door slid close swiftly and bolted as Khushi plunged into total darkness.

**

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Update-31: Rope

Khushi spun around to see a dark shadow of a broad-shouldered man. She inhaled and sharply asked-

Who are you?

The figure moved towards her in the dark room. A ray of moonlight was falling in through the ventilator, and Khushi gasped when she made out the face.

Seven years had done much alteration on 39 aged Shyam Manohar Jha. His face was deeply lined, his nose crooked and mouth distorted with swollen lips. He once had been a charming young man, one of the most handsome guys Khushi knew. But now his eyes were lit by ugly malice and the mere sight resurfaced all the hatred Khushi had for him.

Shyam moved his face at an angle for Khushi to get a better view. He smilingly said-

Recognize me Khushi?

Khushi stepped up and hissed-

What are you here for?

Shyam relaxed, his bottle green eyes boring into her. He twisted his lips hideous smile and said-

That was a better welcome then I expected. But let’s talk civil Khushi, how are you? And how’s been-

Khushi: What are you doing in my house? Get out!

Shyam: Ow! Cool..okay? I-

Khushi moved quickly and reached the door. But before she could open it Shyam was standing in front of the only escape route. He wasn’t smiling anymore. Khushi wanted to murder him right then and there with her veins gushing anger. She trembled and spitted in fury-

How dare you stand in my way! Get the hell out of my house! Now!

Shyam: Cool girl. You’re not going anywhere and I ain’t either.

Khushi tried to get a control of herself. She exhaled heavily and coldly asked-

Why are you here?

Shyam: That’s better. I am here to take back what you took away. Anj-

Khushi yelled aiming a fist at him-

Don’t you ever mention Di’s name through your filthy mouth! You’re a disgusting man worth of nothing, you’re undeserving, narrow minded and we hate you. Yes di hates-

Shyam’s face contorted as he exploded, shaking Khushi by her shoulders-

She loves me you b**** ! You get that!

Khushi shoved him aside and looked at him in the eye. She said-

Don’t come near us. Not near Di. She has a husband and she has her family. And I won’t let anyt-

Shyam laughed out cynically. He roared-

You! You will not let anything happen to her! Khushi, you destroyed her life, our life.

Khushi: Her life was never connected to you. You two together didn’t mean a thing! You cheated on her!

Shyam looked at Khushi awhile and then said in a low tone-

Khushi, that was a mistake, that girl misunderstood my smile and then was all over m-

Khushi: Oh please, save your breath! You think I saw a glimpse of you kissing? No, you went on kissing and touching..

Khushi trailed off, revolted. Shyam said-

Khushi, I love her, you have to trust me. And by the way, all that happened up till your broken engagement-

Khushi’s eyes shot up.

**

You are doing what?!

Khushi shouted as Anjali explained what they have been doing. It had been two months since Anjali and Diya moved into Ryan’s Ville. After a week later NK and Aryan had told Anjali everything about their plan. Anjali initially was honest with her vow of secrecy. But now, after Khushi caught her working on C basic in NK’s laptop, she told her. Now as she sat in her white shirt and pink pants Anjali tried to reason-

Khushi, listen, just hear me out. We need to this. Not for only you but Chote-

Khushi: Arnavji! That’s exactly the point! If you hack the Black Telly Communes then you are getting him into trouble. It’s all about him! Di why can’t you see it!?

Anjali: Khushi please, Aryan needs his father. And Chote, doesn’t he deserve his wife and his son. What did he do so-

Khushi: Be reasonable! You, his elder sister, are putting his life at stake!

Anjali stood up suddenly from the couch, looking away, tears forming at Khushi’s words. Khushi immediately sobered and pulled her down to face her. She sighed and said-

Di I love Arnavji so much that his safety is what matters to me the most. I live my life knowing that he is out there, safe and sound. And I love Aryan, he’s all I got di. If you proceed with this plan you will just put everyone at risk. Their lives at risk, your life, Diya.. You guys mean a lot to me, you’re my family Di.

Tears were falling fast but Anjali spoke, taking Khushi’s hand-

Khushi, I lived all these years waiting for someone to help me reach out to my husband. Yes he is safe, and he is wealthy and healthy. But happiness? They don’t have that and we both know it. We all will die someday Khushi. All that matters is to live happily the time that we have. You’re not happy Khushi. Even with our kids we are not happy, and that’s because we need the fathers of these kids. Their fathers who love us, our husbands, our best friends, soul mates, our lovers. We need them. And they need us.

Khushi: I just don’t know, Arnavji is…

Anjali: Khushi, you are married to him. Remember, the evening you got married? You vowed to cherish and keep him happy forever. And it’s never too late to keep promises. All you need is to move on and mend everything because you know you can’t turn back.

Khushi spoke after sometime-

I don’t know what you are doing here on this laptop. Would you care to explain?

Anjali smiled and nodded through her tears.

**

Shyam walked about the room, lazily eyeing Khushi who seemed to have frozen. He said-

You heard right Khushi. All the time Anjali slapped and left me I have not stopped loving her. On the contrary, I love her even more than before. I traced her back to Delhi. Eventually I saw her coming out of the mental distress. Then I saw Naniji handing her hand to that stupid accountant, Sharma. I made many plans but I was thrown off, every time by her good for nothing, silly, little brat of brother, Arnav. The guy never showed his face and I had no intentions of getting to know him. Then you came along. I saw Buaji at the Gal Gappar Market one day. I followed her and found you and that is when I had the stroke of brilliance to hit the goal indirectly.

Khushi’s tongue was still tied. So Shyam resumed-

I searched out Devan who was living a happy married life. I offered him big bucks to do you with a bit of love. As expected you took the bait and got reengaged to him all the while his wife knowing he was in Sweden for the finalization of an important deal. He was to get into a fake marriage to you and was to introduce me as his former best friend. With time I would have made everything in my way. That is, if Shashiji and Garimaji had not died and the duo-faced idiot had not walked out on you.

Then he disappeared with my advanced payments and I never saw him. But I don’t care about the money. All I want is Anjali. Remember that. I will come back. I could have kidnapped you, knowing that monstrous creature of that Arnav Raizada will do anything for you. But I like you Khushi. And I love Anjali and I will come. And when I do you have to help me.

With that he opened the door and walked out. Khushi did not hear the front door open and shut as she bumped against a wall, slid down and broke into sobs.

**

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Update-32: Rope

Arnav swore loudly. He barked-

Well, do something! I am not taking any flights to Aus this month let alone today. Shift the damned meeting or cancel-

Akash rushed into the room with NK pursuit. NK rolled his eyes and snatched the cell from Arnav and cut the secretary’s call. The latter twitched, annoyed, snapped-

What the? Give the phone NK.

NK dived his angry cousin and exited the room with a cheeky grin. Akash kept a hand on Arnav’s shoulder and calmly said-

Bhai, don’t worry, I will go in. Besides, the meeting’s just a week. I know you want to be here for Khushiji!

Akash ended with a smile when NK reappeared and boomed-

We all know that! Right Nanav?!

Both the man winked at a passive Arnav and went out of the room, laughing. Arnav sat down on his bed. Now the hardest part- wait for half an hour before the train from Lucknow arrived.

**

Yay! This is so cool! Mom never let me this far before!

NK was tightly holding on to his nephew and niece. They were enjoying as the sun went down, with their waists deep in seawater. The children again squealed as the cold waves hit them. NK looked fondly at the kids, knowing how much of a part of his life they had become, Aryan, more than anyone else.

NK heard Khushi and Anjali calling from the sandy shore. He spotted three bikini-clad and looked away, knowing almost naked girls were not unpopular in the Central Beach of Rhyl. He pulled the groaning kids back to where the ladies were- Aryan in a blue trouser and Diya in a mauve swimsuit.

Diya Sharma was the same age as her cousin, 9. Her curly hair was black, falling around her cute fair face. Unlike her mother, she had never worn lenses and got deep black eyes of Jeet. Now in a western swimsuit her tiny figure looked healthy and glowing.

The moms jumped on their feet and with towels, started to dry their kids vigorously. They were shivering but content with the swim. It was weekend. They were all enjoying together. Little they knew that this would be their last weekend here so satisfied and tension free.

~~~~^~~~~

Arnav was in a tuxedo, bent over some cartons. He then jerked over annoyedly and seized his con tele. After a few moments he growled-

Ragivh, I had specifically given instructions to send over cartons which contained previous managers records and my old files and information. And here you have people sending over the whole office storage full of garbage. Take this away immediately!

Arnav kept down the phone. It was 10 years since Khushi had stepped into this very office, complete nine years since she left him. In one year she became the conqueror of him, achieved the invincible, won over his heart by submitting to him in every way possible. Now after a decade the old records were being removed from the storage system but Arnav, determined to have Khushi’s presence decided to keep back all Khushi’s possessions, their possessions.

After 10 minutes Arnav was sitting only with three cartons. One read- Khushi Kumari Gupta, DF Manager; another read- Khushi Singh Raizada, Vice President; the last one- Our Box

Arnav went through them all, the harsh windy evening rolling to a cloudy night. He smiled and cried, watching Khushi’s design books, her photos in the year calendar, her photos with him, the works and samples they worked on together. He was not looking for something in particular, he just wanted to relive their moments together, but his heart which often told him Khushi was alive, was looking for something, something which he found amongst the second box.

It was a very old wrinkled paper, too fragile to touch. Arnav carefully took the paper underneath a mirror spotlight. Then straightening out he read the heading aloud, confused-

South Breeze JC Hospital

The hospital sounded familiar. Sometime into their marriage Khushi had gone there to check whether she got pregnant or not. But then when his eyes darted to another side and he resumed reading his body went numb, breaking into a cold sweat.

The paper was dated the exact day Khushi died, the timing of the appointment was a few hours after the forensics had predicted she died. If this wasn’t enough of a shock, the page was actually a pregnancy test report with positive results, with his late wife’s name and signature on it.

This paper was certainly not a fake one, nor was it anything else. Arnav felt revolted and he realized- Khushi did not leave the world, she left him.

**

The train hooted loudly, slowing down. Khushi hung her head outside from the cubicle window. Arnav was easily to be pointed out by his growing smile, a light blue t-shirt and a baseball cap.

As the train screeched to a stop Khushi pushed herself along the crushing crowd. Her dread from last night being replaced with an overwhelming sense of happiness as she saw Arnav running and taking the luggage of her hands. Her grin got the wider and she said-

Hi Arnavji!

Arnav held her arm, looking for a carter then he leaned in and said-

Khushi if this was somewhere western I would have kissed you senseless. Damn the people!

Khushi blushed crimson holding on to her handbag. Arnav swiftly planted a kiss on her hair and pulled her close. They talked as they reached the arch like exit of the busy railway.

**

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Update-33: Confession

It was two in the morning when Aman got woken by the ringing of his Nokia S3. He grabbed the cell but almost dropped it in surprise seeing the name that flashed on it. It was one of his ex bosses, the one whom he secretly kept tabs on and posted information on a coded blog- Arnav Sir.

He answered it cautiously. It was a recorded message-

Aman Mathure, reach AR office now!

~~~~^~~~~

Arnav was pacing the almost empty conference room, the paper clutched in his fist. His ex secretary appeared at the other end of the room.

Aman Mathure was a lower middle class man of 31. He was a little short than 6 feet with well groomed hair, small eyes and dark skin. He was dressed in a black shirt and flannel pants and wore an expression of scare mingled with curiosity.

Arnav strode towards him, his face hard and apprehensive. He thrust the paper in Aman’s hand, nerves twitching. Aman, on cue, raised the paper to his face and after a fleeting instance, recognized it. As NK had said he had kept it inside Khushi’s file to be buried and lost forever. But that was not to happen, exposing of it, now seemed, inevitable.

Arnav was observing the man before him. It took him a second to know that Aman knew, in fact he knew a lot more than him. He exhaled. Tonight- the night for all truths, or at least everything Aman knew. He calmly said-

Explain.

**

I missed you so much Khushi!

Arnav and Khushi were finally alone, up at Arnav’s room. After lunch now everyone had gone busy in something or the other and Arnav had seized Khushi upstairs with him. Khushi tilted her head slightly and smiled, just the way Arnav loved. She said-

I missed you too, very much.

Arnav pulled her in his arms and kissed her face. Then on her lips. He had missed her terribly and now she was here, there was nothing more he could ask for. Khushi kissed him back and kissed him on the lips. She put her arms around Arnav, drawing him close, feeling his hot breath on her. They giggled like kids and took off their shoes to dangle out their feet in the cool waters of Arnav’s poolside. They panted slightly, leaning into each other, whispering softly as the golden sun began to slip downwards into the horizon.

~~~~^~~~~

It was night when Khushi tiptoed into NK’s room. She found her two friends sitting there with mugs of coffee. NK was wearing a purple nightie while Anjali a plain beige sari. As soon as she stepped in NK asked-

So what is it between you and Nanav?

Khushi’s frown creased as she came and pulled up a chair next to Anjali. She had to tell her, tell them. She looked at her straight in the eye and said-

It’s time we discuss something rather important.

Anjali immediately looked concerned as she touched her arm and said-

What is it Khushi?

For the next 20 minutes Khushi maintained eye contact with her friends all the while telling them about last night. Their eyes widened with horror as Khushi went on with the talk. When she finished silence followed. Then NK spoke-

So, he only came to give a warning?

Khushi: And receive one himself. I told him he was dead meat if he dared to come near Di.

The two turned back to Anjali and Khushi held her firmly. What Anjali spoke wasn’t the thing Khushi was expecting her to-

Oh Khushi, I am so sorry about Devan. He turned out such a..such a.. I am so..so sorry. For me you had to face him then..then Shyam all over again. It’s all my-

Khushi: Di, look at me, none of this is any of our faults okay? Especially not you. You are the best, most beautiful, wonderful lady in the world. It’s none of your fault. Shyam is just who he is.

NK: Did he do anything to harm you?

Khushi fidgeted with her veil as she replied-

No nothing NK. He just talked all the rubbish and left.

Anjali, suddenly aware of her friend’s clumsiness said-

Khushi, what? Where did he hurt you?

NK: I am going to kill that son of!-

Khushi: Please NK, goodnight Di. I had a long journey and am feeling sleepy.

Khushi left before the two troubled people could object.

**

Aman began-

Sir, now that you got this I will tell you what I know of. It was a day after Khushiji’s funeral when NK sir calls me, dead in the night. He asks me to meet him at a park two hours after. After I went there I got a shock to see Khushiji with him. They tell me to keep a secret sir. Khushiji was alive but dead for you and the whole of her acquaintance. They don’t tell me the name but that they are flying off to another country. NK sir then pays me some money to start with a secret bog type to keep them posted about news on you. They give me this paper and go away. I also have their email addresses but other than that-

Arnav who had been listening earnestly now said-

Do you know where they are?

Aman: Not for sure sir but some months ago NK sir called me to get information on Shyam Manohar Jha. I found out that he is a captive in jail. That time-

Arnav: Wait! Shyam Manohar Jha?

It made some sense now. Shyam was a madman. He could do anything. Maybe he didn’t actually see them die in the fire. He just threw the kerosene all over and lit the match. No wait! He was too injured with severe burns. Why didn’t he see Khushi escaping? Of course! He was lying all along! He just had wanted to kill Anjali but Khushi had gone to rescue her. But then why had she run away? And does that mean Anjali was alive? Was NK with them? Did he actually have a kid of his own? Boy or girl?

So many unanswered queries.

He said-

Fine Aman. Now you sit on the computer and trace the IP address from where you have been receiving mails.

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Nov 21

When You Came Into My Life (By Monali98) (Thanked: 25 times)

Update-34: Confession

Khushi sighed, taking a sip of her tea. It was a scorching summer afternoon but the Raizada mansion was as cool as it could be, with huge two-way ACs. She was in the kitchen with her two lady friends- Anjali and Payal, each busy in finishing the cooking of the meal.

Khushi watched them as she sat one of the working tables, a china cup in hand. She then cleared her throat loudly over the hissing of heated pots of food. Payal looked back, so did Anjali. They exchanged obvious looks and came and stood by her side. Payal’s eyes twinkled as she said-

So you are in love, aren’t you?

Anjali: But my idiot of a brother doesn’t get it, does he?

Khushi exhaled. She miserably replied-

It’s not that. He just doesn’t want to pressurize me because I do really think he lo..loves m..

Anjali kept a reassuring hand on her drooping shoulders and said-

He does love you. And you’re right, he’s just being sensitive.

Payal: And that’s for your sake, he doesn’t want you to feel forced. But I understand you too.

Anjali nodded smilingly. Khushi replied-

Well it has been two weeks. I am going away after this hour and with his deal in Turkey goodness knows when I will meet him.

Payal: I don’t know but I have a feeling that pretty soon he will. Confess his feelings, that is.

**

It was almost dawn when Arnav felt someone shaking him. He had just sat down and closed his eyes, worn at the revelations. His eyes flung open as he sprang up and looked at a flushed Aman. The excited man said-

Sir, it’s done! The specialists hit upon an address.

The two men hurried to the room beside.

The room was a large one with grey walls and matching floor tiles. The light was bright, making Arnav’s vision unfocused. The ACs were turned on above the black business tables with LED monitors. Two computers were turned on, and before one of them three men were huddled close, one clicking away vigorously as the others watched intently.

Arnav leaned beside AR account management head, staring at the computer screen with bloodshot eyes. There were various windows open but the one in the middle had the address-

The Spotty Blue teapot, 141 Wellington Road, Rhyl, NW, England

Arnav couldn’t hide his shock. He yelped-

Khushi lives in England! North Wales?

The dark skinned man replied-

Sir, Rhyl is on the east coast of North Wales, a beachside town. It’s in community with Denbighshire. Apparently this cyber café is far up near the coasts, a little less than five hours drive from the heart of North Wales.

Arnav: This is a cyber café!?

Yes sir, and the only address. It seems like all the mails have been sent through the same PC at the same place.

Arnav nodded, ridiculed. After a pause he said-

Trace Denbighshire home records giving entries for any possible names related. Raghiv will give you the details.

The boss then turned and addressed-

Aman, call my jet in and make sure the news of my flight does not brush the press ears.

Aman: Are you going to this Rhyl place?

Arnav: And taking a group of men with me. You will be there as well.

**

The duo was at the poolside, sitting on the recliner. It was time.

Khushi, I am so sorry I have to go now. I am so sorry.

Arnav tucked a strand behind Khushi’s ear, pressing his lips lightly on her delicate skin. Khushi pushed him away, fighting tears. She was dressed in a green suit, the front done in beautiful blue. She glanced at Arnav wearing one of his official black suits. She again asked-

Do you have to go so urgently that you even don’t have the time to come with me to the rail station?

Arnav sighed, pulling her to an embrace. He softly said-

I can always make you happy while saying goodbye.

Khushi looked up and with the most earnest look, asked-

How?

Arnav leaned in and kissed Khushi on her lips. He folded her in his arms, kissing her face, again and again. Khushi kissed him back, smearing him with her tears. He said-

I will be back as soon as possible. I promise.

Khushi knew what was coming and she felt happy as she looked on hopefully at the man she loved. Arnav suddenly pulled back and changing his tone to a jovial one he said, winking-

And I also promise to bring turkeys along for Turkey. I know how much you like experimenting on food.

Khushi was surprised at the change. Then she was enraged. Didn’t he love her? If not, then why such promises? She pushed Arnav back and stood up, furiously speaking-

Why?! Why are you making all this promises which mean nothing!? Why are you doing all this?

Arnav was taken aback by his sweetheart’s sudden anger. He stood up trying to cut off Khushi in vain. She continued-

Arnavji, answer me? Don’t you..you.. I thought you..you lo..you.. Forget it!

Khushi stormed inside and picking up her suitcase, thundered outside the corridors, down the stairs. Arnav followed suit, realizing the mistake he had made. Scratch that, a blunder! He yelled-

Khushi, stop!

Five minutes later Arnav was standing in the empty driveway up his house, shielding his eyes from the sun and watching the black Mercedes driving away.

**

Holy crap, Khushi, DI!!

NK screamed loudly. He was crouched low before his laptop. Khushi and Anjali came rushing into his bedroom. Anjali asked, panting slightly-

What is it NK?

NK looked back at the computer screen, horror stricken. In an undertone he said-

Someone hacked the database I formed in TSBT. I think they got to know we are trying to hack theirs.

Khushi’s muscles went rigid, as the old, initial fear started flowing through, and she cautiously inquired-

Don’t tell me that they got the address?

NK: Shyam’s people must be checking the govern files right now.

The two ladies turned pale. Khushi saw the window was sending error messages, looping the whole process on the screen. The IP ID was exposed. How could they possibly do this? The only man to ever have in contact with them was Aman. Did that mean they had him captive, took his password, found their mails to him and tracked them? Khushi couldn’t think. She whispered-

Devi Maya, what do we do now?

The lord did not say anything in return. But Anjali recovered her color and her eyes sparkled-

NK, you have it! We can move to Australia instantaneously, removing all our grounds from here.

NK replied gravely-

You’re right Di, and very fast.

**

Every being is born to die. Every flower blooms to wilt. Every leaf grows to dry. Everything is created to be destroyed.

Unadulterated abolishment.

Her drenched clothes stuck to her petite structure like another skin. Her mind was unfocused, her heart grieving, never did she feel for a man this strongly. Her vision was blurred by the torrential rain. It was the first of the summer thunderstorms.

She bleakly saw the dark massive figures of trees swaying, saw the grass turn into muddy pools, heard the furious wind whistle around her, and felt the bullets of rain slash through her skin. But still she didn’t care. She had lost to love. Once more. Her relation had ended. Once more. And she had allowed herself to fall in love. Once more. And she, alone, had to bear the consequences. Once more.

A flash of light illuminated the dangerous grey clouds. Khushi’s legs shook, cold, fear, loneliness gripping her. Then a deafening roar of thunder. Khushi’s legs gave away completely and she bent down on her knees, all dripping wet. She had always believed a person getting drenched in the rain to be the happiest. But now she cried.

After moments someone kept a hand on her shoulder. She knew it was him. She wanted to shove his palm away, push him away, yell at him and never forgive him. But she sat in her bending position, frozen, not daring to look in the fear of being mistaken.

Soon the heat of the gentle touch began seeping through Khushi’s vein, working on her nerve impulses, forcing her to stand up and turn around.

There he was, still dressed in his expensive Armani suit, soaked thoroughly. He looked shaken, but he was smiling, a little nervous. He came forward, not taking her approval, pulled her into a comfortable hug. Khushi let her tears flow, still hurting, burying her face into his broad chest.

Moments passed and Arnav broke the tender embrace and squinted at her through wet eyelashes. Then he kissed her lips, claiming her, enveloping her, consoling her. They moved slowly as they kissed, compassionate dancers dancing in rhyme of the rainfall. They did not cease kissing and a short after Arnav pushed Khushi against a bark of a tree and, even in the howling of the raging storm, in his softest of whisper told her-

I love you Khushi.

Khushi eyes welled up with tears. She smiled and looking at her wet Arnavji knew she had been proposed exactly as she always dreamed of. In the rain, sealed with a passionate kiss. She replied slowly-

I love you too Arnavji.

Indeed, the one willfully getting drenched in the rain is the happiest!

**

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Update-35: Te Amo

The Parliament House of North Wales, 60 mi from Rhyl had been intruded into by some black dressed gentlemen. They were foreigners but they were professional. In a matter of just two days their boss, well informed, was on the way to a small lane, a perfectly ordinary living area, Larch drive, there a villa named ‘Ryan Ville’. His wife with a child, as informed by the office clerks resided there. He had not also missed his cousin who lived a few blocks ahead of them. His cousin brother had dropped the ‘Singh Raizada’ from the end while Khushi dropped his name and the ‘Kumari’ changing the spelling to Kushe Gupteh. What he didn’t do was check the latest records, one which had Anjali’s entries.

Arnav spoke on the phone-

Akash, I am at the States for a highly confidential meeting. I will speak to you later.

After he kept the phone he realized something had stirred within him, proving it was existent. The something was happiness. He did not smile but thought he knew something was coming- he, once again, will be re-united with his wife.

~~~~^~~~~

At the office of AR Akash Singh Raizada sat, dumbfounded. Didn’t Raghiv just say he booked tickets for UK? But then.. why did Arnav lie? What was going on?

**

You spoil me Arnavji.

Khushi mused as Arnav brought in morning tea and crackers, the sun peeking through the marigold curtains. They were at her new, two bedroom apartment. Now that Khushi had moved back to Delhi, Arnav never failed to pick her from home and drop her off after occasional dinners in Delhi’s best restaurants.

Arnav smiled and kissed her lightly on the forehead, setting the mugs and plate beside on the side table. He eyed up his sweetheart wearing pink sleeping suit. Her eyes were warm and jolly. She was simpering slightly, pushing back her knotted hair. He said-

And you spoil me with your smile Ms. Gupta. Here’s your extra milk tea with double sugar cubes.

Khushi laughed, taking her steaming mug in hand. She looked at her handsome man, in a black jogging suit. She asked playfully-

What did I do to deserve such sweetness from the great Mr. ASR?

Arnav: You are a sweet yourself. My sweetest toffee.

Khushi pouted and Arnav groaned-

Stop teasing me Khushi, I am warning you. Do you have any idea how highly kissable you look when you do that? Some of these days, I am going to have to eat you up whole.

Khushi squealed with childish laughter, pulling Arnav close and wrapping her arms around him. This is how she had wanted, to be with the guy she loved, a guy who would just love her plainly in return. And Arnav was a man, the only man for her. She kissed him passionately, letting him kiss her face, feeling his fingers tangled in her messy hair. Her cheeks burned and nerves tingled, another start of a big day. In half an hour they will be out for jogging, then later office. They will spend their lunch hour and evenings tea together in their cabins. Then, as Arnav promised, he will take Khushi out for dinner. It’s been two months she moved back in, since then they had been dating.

Arnav buried his face in the hollow of her throat and whispered-

I love you so much Khushi.

**

Di, I have really the reverse of what I ought to feel right this while.

Khushi, Anjali, dressed in western fashion, and the kids were sitting comfortably in NK’s GRT. Diya was playing on her IPod while Aryan sat in the passenger seat, looking hard at his laptop’s screen while glancing sideways at NK who was driving. For the first time in his life, Aryan found his jubilant Nunkle grim. They were heading to Cardiff Airport.

Despite the tension, Anjali giggled-

Khushi, you are so English! Anybody would think you have lived here the entire life.

Khushi grinned shamelessly-

You got to learn to communicate in the style your society does. But who would have thought I will be able to get out of the broken American accent I used to have. But let’s talk. I am feeling very happy, all of a sudden. Like something real surprise will take place!

NK: Yeah, trust Khushi to feel the opposite!

~~~~^~~~~

At that moment NK’s black Nissan crossed a red Chevrolet cruze, one that belonged to the mighty ASR. Two hearts fluttered together, singing, searching for the other, but the moment had ended as one of the cars bent its course, out of sight.

But not for long!

**

Arnav was driving. He didn’t dare look at his lady love beside him, talking animatedly on the phone. He was nervous. Tonight was special. He was still revising in his head what had to be told. They had dated for a long time and each of them by now knew the other by heart. There remained no pretense, and no holding back, just love. Last time while confessing he had messed up. But not this time, not the time he will be proposing her.

Khushi got down, helped by Arnav. She squealed in delight. Set amidst the garden ground of heaven, Olive Bar and Kitchen was perfect for romantic evenings. The air was a collision of sweet smell of jasmine and roses. Khushi ran and saw around the place and Arnav left her for a short while.

The restaurant was built on several huts, huge, with large outdoor patios set. The entrance was lit with neon lights and as it glowed contrast to the dark environs the whole moment seemed magical.

Arnav came back. Khushi’s eyes widened a bit, surprised. He was dressed in a crimson suite with black shirt, tie and flannel pants. He was carrying an artistic bouquet of red roses. Even in the darkness Khushi could understand Arnav was tensed on something. Nonetheless, he smiled charmingly and said-

For you.

Khushi blushed slightly, accepting the ambrosial flowers. Arnav led the way and the inside seemed to be posh and exotic. The halls were huge with sparse crowd, mostly young couples. Khushi now noticed that Arnav was matched to her outfit. She was draped in a red georgette sari with intricate black embroidery. The black pearls adorning her neck, hands and ears were complimented the black-red striped 3 inch stilettos. She had not known, but this night was extraordinary. And she looked glamorous, the gorgeous queen of the crowned Arnav Singh Raizada. People couldn’t help but stare at the handsome couple, walking hand in hand across the brightly lit rooms.

They settled under the cloudless sky. Arnav had reserved a candle-lit, two sitter porch for the two of them. Khushi went near the railing and side, putting her small hands on the cold metal bars. Arnav hugged her from behind and they stood like that, satisfied and at ease.

Appetizers were brought in- roasted mushrooms, Caesar salad, smoked vine tomato timbale and goat cheese soufflé. The main course came as a Mediterranean experience and later desert came as Wood baked skillet cake, chocolate suicide and Gelato Della casa. After the last bit of the chocolate mousse had been wiped off Arnav cleared his throat. Khushi looked at him, full of tasty food. He reached out over the table and took her subtle hands in his and looked into her eyes. He said huskily-

I have been waiting a long time to ask you now Khushi. I didn’t just know when the right time was. But I have to ask you this, Khushi. Will you marry me?

Not in the world would have Khushi thought being asked this question. But now that he had, it seemed obvious. Still, the realization hit her hard and tears sprang out. After quiet tense moments she gulped covering Arnav’s hand with her other and gasped in a strangled voice-

Oh, Arnavji-

Arnav requested earnestly-

Only Arnav, please.

Khushi was so taken over with emotions she couldn’t answer straight away and then she got up from her chair and sat near Arnav, looking at him through teary eyes. She replied-

Yes, yes yes! A thousand times yes! I will marry you Arnav!

Two people, flooding with happiness, kissed passionately, keeping the twinkling stars witness of their unity.

**

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Update-36: Te Amo

Cardiff International Airport was relatively small. A rectangular, modest white painted building, huge doors opened up the entrance. The inside was well-maintained and exiguous in crowd. The florescent lights flashed down on Anjali as she talked to the person behind the counter. NK was heading to a general pass with a luggage cart as his phone started beeping. Diya frowned asking her cousin about the sharp noise as NK took out his Blackberry.

Khushi came out from the ladies, and spotting his son and niece near the coffee machine, smiled, started towards them. As she reached, she saw Diya pointing out something and NK and Aryan kneeling down and looking hard at the laptop. Khushi said-

Hey you three, what are you looking at?

As NK turned and met her eyes, Khushi could sense something had gone terribly, terribly wrong.

**

What the?!

Khushi was in the guestroom at RM, looking at her to be husband, stunned. He was still in his casual of green sweatshirt and grey chinos, looking at his darling with mischief in his eyes. He pushed himself in through the doorway and said-

That’s my lingo. What the.

Khushi was still in her simple beige suit, waiting for the beauticians. That is, until a knock came to her door and she found herself staring in her fiancé’s chocolaty eyes. They were going to be married in less than 4 hours, the thought excited her to the core.

Arnav stared down Khushi from head to toe, making her blush. Then he pounded on her, kissing her urgently. Khushi responded, she had been missing him too. Nani had imposed strict orders on them- No meeting with the marriage away two weeks. Of course they had met, but it had been only seductive glances or at most, fleeting kisses when everyone was busy. Like the time Khushi had, accidentally on purpose, dropped a bowl of haldi on Arnav from upstairs when he adamantly refused to let anyone touch him. Or even when, during a dance in their Sangeet he had tried kissing Khushi while everyone was looking on. Or even when, yesterday, Arnav had turned out the main power switch and plunged all the ladies in darkness while he took his sweetheart away for an intimate moment. But that had not even lasted a minute with Payal’s prying eyes spotting Khushi veil behind the large draperies.

They kissed for quite a while. Khushi’s hand locked behind his neck and she jerked as Arnav dropped feverish kisses along her throat. She again tugged at him and kissed his cheeks, eyelids and chin, stopping at his gentle lips. Arnav murmured-

I am so lucky to have found you, you know.

Khushi pulled back and rested her forehead on Arnav, smiling and breathing heavily. She said-

And me, you.

Arnav: We’ll always stay together.

Khushi: Till our last breathes forever.

Arnav: I love Khushi.

Khushi: I love you too-

God what a romantic speech! Must call DI!

The two sprang away, flushed and bewildered, looking at their friend, NK who had a cheeky smile plastered over his face. The three could hear female voices approaching and with one last kiss Arnav ran out of the room, grabbing NK by the collar and taking him along.

**

Khushi, Ryan Ville has just been broken into.

Nothing could go worse. But this was expected, Shyam’s men tracked them down to destroy them. And they were going to continue with what they were doing- flee. But something rose inside Khushi. Instinctively she said-

NK, check the home CCTV footages. I believe you had the cameras connected to your laptop.

NK: Yes I did connect them. But what’s the use? We already know what monstrous beasts we are going to see.

By that time Anjali had also come, having finished off with the pre-formalities. She sensed the tensed air and quietly asked-

Now what happened?

NK started explaining and Khushi drifted to her thoughts. What now? If they even flee she was sure they would trace them back to Aus. Will they blow up Ryan Ville? How evil will Shyam get to achieve his revenge? Khushi couldn’t imagine.

After a few minutes of arguing NK relented, scanning the CCTV footages. This was not simple work as there were many videos recorded at every inch of the house. But after ten minutes when everyone else were concentrating on talking to each other NK’s hand found the correct video clip and after staring at it for 30 seconds he dropped his laptop on the polished floor, letting out a groan.

Everyone rushed to his side, fearing the worst but he lifted his face and their fears gave away to puzzlement. NK was smiling, for the first time in days.

And then he pulled and hugged Khushi and Aryan. He delightfully shouted-

It’s Nanav.

**

She was the most beautiful bride in the world. With deep red sari embroidered with delicate, light white designs her petite body looked absolutely perfect. Her skin radiated against the heavy gold jewelries and hair hidden behind the caftan fabric. Her hands were full of jingling red bangles. Her jhumkas swayed lightly as she moved around, fixing her wedding dress and looked at herself in the mirror. Khushi, soon to be Khushi Arnav Singh Raizada.

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Update-37: Chasing Shadows

Khushi!

Arnav called loudly, his voice booming. The newly married couple was at the private AR estate in Darjeeling. They were staying in one of the bungalows set in the midst of the hilly paradise. The purpose of the trip was Arnav’s unavoidable meeting which was later extended for a fortnight for his honeymoon. It was their third day and despite Khushi truly loving the cool, calm atmosphere and great views Arnav had promised to take her up to the Hawaiian Islands afterwards.

Khushi.

Arnav again called as he walked along the corridor, hearing Khushi high-pitched giggle sound somewhere downstairs. He jumped down the stairs and across the hall to spot his gorgeous little wife, talking on her phone.

Khushi was wearing only one piece of clothing, Arnav’s blue shirt. She shuffled her feet seeing her husband emerge, wearing a pair of khaki shorts. She quickly ended the call with her sister, suddenly self conscious, and tried to concentrate on the omelet she was frying. Soon two arms grabbed her from each side, the hold firm. Arnav leaned and kissed her shoulder blades. He softly said-

Good morning sweetheart. Gosh you look so sexy in my shirt and that too in the golden morning light, not to mention in the moonlight.

Khushi blushed, thinking about the night before; they had made love underneath the silver moon. She turned around shyly and kissed Arnav good-morning. Arnav refused to let go and kissed her until the egg had burned charcoal.

**

NK! You can’t expect him to use the same SIM card he used 10 years ago.

Anjali exclaimed, frustrated with the poor network. They were back in the car, heading back to Rhyl. With the children intently hearing, the trio tried to track down the mighty man. Khushi said-

And it’s obvious. Arnavji didn’t want any media attention. So he did not come by public airline. It must have been a private deal.

NK: Guys relax, we will find the damned number. West Denbighshire is not the largest place to cover-

Khushi: He left Larch Drive half an hour ago. He can be anywhere from here.

Anjali: And how do you even know we are going to put our hands on his number?

NK: It’s a small world, be optimistic.

They were using RTN, directed to the North Wales, trying to pick out any Indian numbers in use. The search was still running and once or twice, bringing a rush of hope, some numbers caught on but each hit a dead end. Khushi was constantly looking out of the window, as if her Arnavji was just waiting outside the car for her. She took out his photograph from her purse and cried, Anjali and Aryan trying to console her.

When they reached Morrisons Store, the scene left them stunned. In a matter of two hours the quiet neighborhood the Raizadas had left, now was full of police cars, screaming women, sirens, fire workers and rushing men. Several yards away a dark cloud of black smoke floated up into the ever blue sky.

A man wearing a bomb squad uniform was yelling-

It’s the Duplex of Larch, the one name Ryan Ville. A MC had been planted which went off!

**

Khushi stealthily came out of Shantivan, hopping into the waiting auto. To the temple, she barely said to the driver. As the vehicle started flashes of the last few days went through her head- Shyam revisiting her to give a final warning, Shyam roaming around their house, Shyam trying to meet her Anjali Di and Shyam plotting plans to kill Anjali with his sidekicks. She felt revolted, having almost eaten nothing in the past week. She knew what the dirty game was about and she was going to save her husband’s one and only dear sister.

She had not known then, but someone was following her.

The Lakshmi Narayan Mandir was famous perfect stone setting. It was a lazy Saturday evening and the birds were returning to their nests. Only five or six middle aged women were in sight as Shyam rounded a corner. He looked like any religious man wearing a pink shirt, black pants, walking bare footed. His dark lips curved into a nasty smile as he spotted Anjali among the ladies, praying, her eyes closed, all the innocence in the world.

Now where was his played pawn- Khushi? The little filthy girl, have to interfere in everything! From the time she married that Arnav Singh Raizada she had been after him, trying to diminish his plans. Soon she had brought in Anjali in front of him and his love of life had slapped him right across his face. It was then he understood that he could never get to Anjali. She was lost. But why would she survive then? And Khushi, she had made him take the decision he took. She had to bear the same consequences. Shyam had lured her into the dangerous game, by deliberately discussing his plans of the murder before her. Knowing who she is, she must come to save the day, once again. And she will deal in the same situation and reach the final destination. Death.

And there she was! In a purple blue suite, her hair tied in a bun Khushi looked elegant. But the pretty face was pale and worried. Pathetic, Shyam thought.

Two hours later, NK helped Khushi out of one side of the temple. She coughed, inhaling the venomous air and coughing again. They ran back, each supporting the other, crying for Anjali, watching as the fiery flames climb higher, and engulfing the shrine completely. An accidentally on purpose electrical fire, induced by a simple short circuit.

It was not until several awful moments when Khushi screamed in fury, pain and emotions. She doubled up on the cold earth, clutching NK. She stuttered, trembling-

That monster killed her..he killed her..oh he killed her! He came to me when I was…was..he said that..that if I go out of here alive I can’t..can’t go back to Arnav..Arnavji, not my family..not them.. I have to go..He will kill them..or else he will kill them all..I..I..I have to leave..

Khushi tried to stand up, failing. Without a second thought NK had helped her up saying-

I will come with you. No arguments.

Khushi had screamed again, then several times, it was physical pain. Within three hours her best friend had her admitted to the hospital and it was then he first learned about Aryan. They hadn’t been happy.

**

No hope without life. No life without hope.

So there was hope, for all. Each and every living being. In most cases the hopes are reached out to achieve. However, a few just keep hoping till the end. And Khushi had kept her hope alive, knowing there was nothing to be done. And now, what will someone do if our dreams come true without any effort. But that’s how it was. After ten years, she still didn’t want to meet her husband, in the fear of losing him. But as she felt a familiar tingling sensation running down her spine and a pair of eyes gazing at her she couldn’t have wanted anything more in her life.

Despite, losing her and her son’s house, despite so many injured people in a bomb blast, despite the cruel notion of Shyam returning, she spilled happy tears as she raised her chin and looked at her one and only man, the one her world has evolved around, her thin, pale faced Arnavji.

He knew it was reality. And proving his wife wrong, now Arnav truly knew what it meant when reality was better than dreams. This was reality. Khushi was standing just some feet away. He slowly smiled.

**

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Update-38: Chasing Shadows

It was as if the decade had melted into nothing, the 10 years which hadn’t passed. It felt the very same as years before, the same passion, desire and love.

Khushi’s hand rose to her mouth as she broke down into sobs. He ran and wrapped his strong arms around her, the same strength, scent and emotions. As she buried her face and cried into his chest she felt his body tremble against her. They cried holding each other; the world had disappeared around them.

The emotions were too powerful to overcome. Both felt happiness, extremely happy. But Khushi also felt the guilt of leaving him, shame for keeping his son away. And Arnav repented every second he had passed without his Khushi. Khushi cries had subsided soon, and Arnav broke their embrace, looking at his sweetheart for the first time in years.

Her fringes no longer hung out, swaying against her gentle cheeks, instead her hair was done in a plum bun, some tresses tucked uncaringly behind her ears. She was wearing a paisley top with beige chinos, her once creamy skin tone a slight perfect tan. She had no makeup except a dash of Vaseline on her naturally pink lips. She was thinner and vulnerable than ever before.

Khushi avoided gazing directly into his eyes, afraid of what they might tell her. But she looked at his lean, virile structure. He was handsome, as always, in a tuxedo, his muscles rippling out beneath the synthetic clothing. He hadn’t shaved for a couple of days and needed a slight haircut, looked unkempt. His face had some of the colors returning.

Arnav slowly raised Khushi’s chin to meet her tearful eyes. Her eyes were still so expressive, had so much to tell. He looked at her, feeling his gaze moist and clouded with tears. How he had missed her! His voice wouldn’t talk but his lips moved, speaking-

I love you.

Khushi just held on to him tighter, again breaking. Arnav then, with effort, spoke-

Khushi.

Khushi’s eyes shot up as her lips curved into the smallest of smiles. Arnav leaned down slowly, and Khushi went on her tiptoes, longing to just disappear into his very being and stay there forever. Their lips met with the same heated desire as it done 11 years ago in between a bone-shaking winter, in front of the fireplace in Lucknow. They forgot the mass of people that rushed by their side, forgot every other thing in the world. The kissed hard and slow, each pulling the other closer. Khushi’s lips escaped a low moan of his name-

Arnav…Arnavji…

They stood there, molding into each other, kissing in turns, for what seemed like only a few seconds. Then someone crashed into Arnav’s shoulder. Arnav instinctively held Khushi behind him and wheeled around to come face to face with his cousin, Nand Kishore.

One had a great, jubilant smile on his face while the other’s eyes widened with shock. The latter blurted sharply-

NK! You?

NK hugged his brother tightly and said-

Just been fulfilling the responsibility of a friend these 10 years.

Apprehension hit Arnav and he looked at Khushi, then at NK. He then smiled whole-heartedly and said-

NK, I don’t know how to thank you for taking care of her..I..I..thank you so much!-

NK: Nanav, mere bhai, it’s my duty as a friend; what’s more Khushi and Little man are not less than family.

NK left to search out Aryan and the others. Khushi held Arnav’s hand and smiled at him. She said-

I know I owe a lot of explanations Arnavji. But if anything is most urgent to say that is that I love you. And I will try our best to make up for all of these years.

Arnav took her hand to his lips and kissed it. He said-

We will make it through Khushi. I believe we will make it through.

Khushi nodded, kissing him lightly on his cheek. She said smilingly-

I want to give you a surprise, actually two surprises.

Arnav: Hmm..

Khushi looked around and spotted the group reappearing. She nudged Arnav and pointed at the beautiful lady, coming hand in hand with her daughter.

The big bomb of surprise dropped on Arnav as he recognized her. Was it really his Di? He ran.

He is my father.

That was a statement. Khushi didn’t know what to tell, or, how to tell. She looked at her Arnavji, at a distance, hugging his sister and taking his niece in his arms. Everything will be all right, she hoped. She said-

Yes, he is your father, your dad.

NK was sitting on the pathway, beside them, also noticed Aryan’s confused look. He said-

Little man, remember we used to talk about your dad a lot. And you said you wanted to meet him as much as you wanted your mom to meet him. So what happened now?

Aryan kept silent, looking away. Khushi pulled him into her arms and kissed his soft hair. She soothingly said-

I love you my baby. And your dad loves you as well. And I am sure he would try to be the best dad once he gets to know you. We will always love you and he will be the best dad. I promise.

NK said-

Come on, it will feel weird I know, but we need to do the introductions of this son-dad.

Khushi grinned and said-

Right, come on sweetie.

Anjali stopped talking abruptly and stared over Arnav’s shoulder. Diya slid down from her uncle’s grip and joined her mother. Arnav knew what was coming so he turned around slowly.

His boy was dressed in a black sweatshirt and jeans. His hair fell down in sleek style, perfectly matching his dark outfit. His face registered sharpness with brown eyes full of unsaid queries.

Arnav went to his knees so that Aryan’s figure was a little taller than him. He gulped and choked on his words-

Your eyes are mine, but just like ur mother’s they say a lot of unspoken words. You..You..it’s just so much to take in..you’re my son!

Arnav pulled his child into a hug which the little boy reciprocated. Khushi wiped her eyes as she heard NK say in an undertone-

Now to find where is that snake!

Update-39: The Trail

We can shift to Australia.

Khushi said, holding onto Arnav. Arnav’s limo was sleek and posh as it rode speedily past meadows and small two-three floored buildings. The internal features were gorgeous with 5 set of rows of comfortable seats. They all were sitting, spacious but uncomfortable. All were lost in their own worlds, but with the same problems at the same height. Everyone felt queasy and restless. NK said from the back-

No Khushi. For all we know Shyam can follow us down there.

Arnav, in rage but in confusion all the same, asked-

What does he want with us anyway?

Anjali: One of the two; either he wants to kill only me or he wants to eradicate us all.

Khushi promptly looked away and in a bitter voice said-

Or he wants to murder you Arnavji. And he will not be afraid to demonstrate his every bit of his filthy, wicked ways to achieve that.

Arnav: Yes, revenge for putting him in jail for murders he attempted and was thought to have committed. I see. And he actually was atrocious enough to blow up your house.

Khushi: Not just revenge. I actually met him while the temple was on fire.

Arnav: What?!

For the next half an hour Khushi’s husband sat, stunned as the trio explained everything that had happened all those time back. As the story went on Khushi found Arnav tightening his hold on her by every passing minute. In return Khushi wounded her arms around his torso, holding him close and steady. When they were done Arnav sat motionless.

Arnav, where are you calling from? Looks like a European extension.

Anjali was trembling, supported by her brother. They were at one of the executive suites of Pier Hotel, nearby their, now demolished, house.  The whole combo had three bedrooms with a separate living cum dining, and kitchen. It was modern and furnished well with framed paintings and photos on the white striped cream walls. The children were squabbling over a packet of crackers while the elders decided to call Diya’s dad, Jeet Sharma.  Arnav replied-

Jijaji, I am in England.

Jeet: Britain? Why?

Arnav: I will explain when you get here. And please, quick. My secretary Raghiv will send the tickets sometime from now.

Ok now that’s done we will have to move further.

Arnav spoke, grabbing Aryan’s hand. The kid whispered to his mom beside him-

He’s already being overprotective.

Khushi smiled wanly and held his other hand. She said-

All parents are.

They just came out of the cell ware store, each one of them having purchased new SIMs and phone sets. They were discussing where they could go when NK said-

We could leave for Nottinghamshire. My ex-employer has a hotel there.

So a hotel it was, Hotel Paradise in the heart of the small town of Bingham. They were staying at three separate double bed cabins, having stopped usage of credit card in fear of getting traced. Aman had promised cash to be sent to Arnav as soon as possible.

Arnav and Khushi’s room had still an extra occupant- Anjali. She was sitting on the red spreads of the bed, Khushi kneeling down to her and comforting her. She again wailed-

What will he think? I..I’ve kept his baby away from him..I left him even after being confined within marital bond.

Khushi wanted some time with his husband. But then, wasn’t she the one who had requested Anjali to be with her for some time? So now? She soothingly replied-

Di, you will be happy. Think about that. Jijaji will be happy. Think about that. Your daughter will have a father. After tomorrow we will all be so happy. We never need to look back di. Never.

Anjali looked at her with tearful eyes. Khushi looked back, smiling and touched Anjali’s cheek. She nodded and said-

You’ll have your family di.

Arnav came in, locking the door behind him. Sighing, he looked around. He had never lived in a smaller room; even his place at the Gupta house or Khushi’s apartment had been bigger. However, being in the country which it was, the room was well furnished with a TV set, velvet couches, posh rugs, closets and exquisite lighting.

He had just come from NK’s room, seeing him put Aryan to sleep. How he wanted to get to know his son and be a good father. They will work it out, he thought. With Khushi by his side, he believed nothing to be impossible. He heard the sound of the shower running, simultaneous to his wife’s singing. She had never a singing voice but it was the best music to Arnav’s ears. Noting the room was empty he closed his fists and gritted his teeth. First Aryan, then Di, and now taking up her time to shower. Doesn’t she have any time for him? He walked over to the washroom door and knocked it impatiently. The singing stopped abruptly making Arnav smile. He called out-

Khushi, open up.

The shower taps closed out and Arnav waited with bated breath, hearing some cautious steps on the tiled floor. So long since he had made love, or been loved. The door opened slowly, only a little way. His wife peeked out, her wet tresses sticking to her face, water droplets dripping from her chin. Arnav’s intense brown eyes followed a drop of water climbing down across her forehead, eyelid, cheek and to rest on her lips.

Arnav’s gaze conflagrated Khushi, but it had been too long. The burning desires were forced put off for too long to hold any longer. She stared Arnav from head to his black shoes, becoming bold, gaining strength. She again looked at his stony face and knowing he was fighting with himself to give her space, smiled.

Her innocent smiled irked him more but seeing the mischievous twinkle in her eyes his passion flared. He gruffly pushed open the door wide and literally pounced on her, so vehement he was.

The longest nights are not only the loneliest ones, they are also when you are with your loved ones, rejoicing after so many years of being apart with nothing but loneliness.

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