Chapter 30

Chapter 30

The entire week had been chaotic, with work piling up for everyone. Sumer was away on an international assignment, shooting in Prague. Payal was busy with her latest designs, which she thought would add value to her portfolio when she applied to AR Designs. Akash was occupied in finishing a huge order, which his new business partner had managed to get. While Arnav was away for a couple of days in London, Khushi was busy with Vandy, planning the book launch for Saturday evening. They had finally decided to launch the book in Delhi. The team at the publication house thought it would be better, since the writer lived here and the book itself was based in Delhi. As much as Arnav wanted to be by Khushi's side, his increased responsibilities at AR Designs were keeping them apart. They would talk over the phone at length however, and he made sure that she was comfortable with every decision taken by Vandana.

To Khushi's surprise, when she had asked Arnav to not send his cars anymore, he had agreed without a word of protest. She had wanted to drive her beloved Dhanno again. He knew how fond she was of her scooter from which he had kept her away for too long. His sweet fiance had always agreed to all his demands and he just wanted to see her happy. "Fiance"... Arnav could not stop using this word. He kept on saying it at every given opportunity. He could not wait to proclaim to the world that he had found his soulmate... especially in front of Akash Roy. Arnav did not know why, but Akash didn't give him good vibes. He remembered the day at Khushi's house, with Payal and Sumer when Akash had walked in. Payal had excitedly told Akash about Arnav and Khushi's engagement and how his parents wanted to go to Lucknow to meet her parents. He had noticed Akash's stiff stance and a certain awkwardness, as if he was not too happy with the news. Akash had pasted a bright smile on his face and congratulated the couple, but Arnav thought something was amiss... Had Akash been in love with Khushi... before he, Arnav had entered their lives?

Khushi had brushed it off as a trivial thing, saying Akash had always had mood swings. Arnav had let it be for the time being. If Akash was really in love with his angel, there was no point trying to probe and inadvertently rub salt on his wounds. He could not wait to get married to Khushi and have her to himself... all the time! At the moment though, he was headed to The Oberoi Hotel, straight from Delhi airport. He had called up Khushi as soon as he had landed from London and was rushing to meet her. She was at the hotel with Vandana, finalizing some last minute details for the launch, and he just couldn't wait to see her. Most of the day, he was engrossed in work and managed it well. However, every free moment that he had, his mind dwelt on Khushi. So much so that his family had started complaining, that he had been ignoring them completely. He knew his mother and Nani too well, to fall into their trap. They had been continuously teasing him after his declaration of love. Anjie had already started planning her outfits for all the functions. Yes, the Raizadas were totally crazy and his adorable angel was going to join the gang...soon.

As soon as Arnav saw Khushi sitting inside the coffee shop, he rushed towards her and kissed her firmly on the cheek. A surprised Khushi looked at him and whispered hurriedly, "Arnav, what are you doing? Mr. Sagar is here." Arnav quickly turned around to see Vandana and her father grinning at the couple. He straightened and shook hands with the man. "Hello Uncle, how are you? I am sorry I did not notice you were here," he added in mortification. Mr. Sagar laughed at him and replied, "No problem, young man. I have been selling romance and dreams to readers, for years now. It is great to see real love, once in a while." As Vandy and Khushi continued their discussion, Arnav walked alongside the older man, discussing some business issues. "Uncle, what did you think of my proposal? Will JD Constructions be interested in this deal?" Arnav asked, hoping for a positive response. "Son, I have known the two partners for a long time now, and when I presented your proposal to them, they were surprised by your interest in their company. However, they do not have many options, considering the way their son has brought doom to the company, which had been built with enormous hard work and faith."

Arnav heard Mr. Sagar talk, his face and expression revealing nothing more than polite interest, whilst inwardly, he felt jubilant at the information. This definitely was good news and he hoped this deal worked out in their favour. He thanked the older man and settled in a seat beside Khushi. Vandy had almost wrapped up the discussion, as the group finished a quick dinner. Vandana spoke to Arnav, "Arnav, although it's not my business, you know right, you cannot be present at the book launch?" This got both Arnav and Khushi's attention. "What? Don't look at me like that! Arnav, with media present at the venue, they are going to demand answers to the reason for your and the Raizada family's presence. Don't tell me you hadn't thought about this aspect yet?" Vandy questioned him. "Crap! I don't care if they question us, Vandy... I will disclose our relationship. It is soon going to be official anyways. I don't think my family would mind either. It is such an important day for Khushi and I definitely want to be by her side," Arnav tried to sound convincing, as he proposed this solution to the rest.

"Arnav, you can't be there. What Vandy says makes sense. This is not the way we should disclose our relationship to the media. I don't want my book to sell because it is written by Arnav Singh Raizada's fiance. I really want this book to do well... because it is good," Khushi put forth her view, to which Arnav immediately objected. "Angel, I can't be sitting at home, while your book is being launched. This has been my dream too... for a while. Even Maa, Nani..." Vandy intervened and said, "Arnav, trust me when I say that the Raizada family's presence would really be a big boost for the book and the publication house. However, I think Khushi is right. Give her the freedom to fly on her own... What..." Arnav cut her short and said grumpily, "I am going to be present at the launch, whether you women like it or not." Vandy laughed heartily, seeing him throw a tantrum like a small kid and said, "First...at least, let me complete what I want to say. See, I am inviting you, as the guest of honor to unveil Khushi's new book. You are my college friend and now a popular celebrity. But hey, I am not paying you a penny for this!"

Arnav grinned at her and said, "You are the best! Don't worry, I won't take a dime from you, as long as you keep paying Khushi the royalty." He looked at Khushi and winked at her. She just shook her head in resignation, thinking about how she would have to deal with a stubborn ASR, all her life. It wasn't a very unpleasant thought and she relaxed in her seat. After winding up their discussions at the hotel, Arnav dropped Khushi home. He was invited in by Payal for a cup of tea, which Arnav could not refuse. Payal's application at AR Designs had been accepted and she had already cleared two rounds of interviews. She was to meet the head of the company, which was Arnav, in the upcoming week. Arnav was more than happy to have Payal in his team and Khushi in his home. The next few months, were already planned in his head. After the book launch, the family was to travel to Lucknow and meet Payal's parents. He had gotten a sound hearing from his family, for giving a ring to Khushi without a proper engagement. Hence, an official engagement would follow soon. The rest, he would let Khushi decide, as to what pace she wanted to set for their wedding preparations.

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The venue looked elegant and stunning. Khushi had made sure that the decorations weren't too loud and the hall looked spacious. There were circular tables around the center, where they had planned to conduct the launch and ensuing press conference. There was to be no formal platform or table setting, unlike most other press meets. She wanted it to be a casual chat with the media, where anyone could ask questions and the entire team would answer them. The team comprised the writer, editors, publishing house, the cover designer and the chief guest. Her excitement was palpable, with Payal by her side every moment. Arnav had been sulking all day, texting her about how much he was missing her. He wanted to be around to help, to support her. She knew how much his presence would have calmed her too. However, it was best this way and anyway, he would get to the venue in a couple of hours.

Arnav had finally convinced Khushi, that they would organize a success party at Shantivan, after the conference. The Raizada's wanted to celebrate with their soon to be daughter-in-law. Sumer, Akash, Payal and Vandy were invited to the small celebration, followed by a sumptuous home-cooked dinner. "You look gorgeous, Khushi... stop fidgeting with your dupatta," Sumer said softly to an extremely anxious Khushi. She simply nodded, not even listening to what he had said. Sumer grabbed her hand and dragged her towards the extreme right, where the refreshment counters were set up. "Come, let's eat something. Bhook ki wajah se jyada tension hota hai. You don't know when you will be free enough to eat later, so just eat this samosa," Sumer thrust a plate full of snacks in Khushi's hand, as he prepared another full plate for himself. Khushi giggled at his craziness, munching on the piping hot samosa. Food did calm her down a little, yet her eyes scanned around for that one face, which could take away all her worries.

Amidst the people who had slowly started gathering, she saw him walk casually towards her. A few cameramen tried to ask him some questions, which he completely ignored. His smiling eyes were trained on her face, trying hard to mask the love he felt. He looked dashing in a crisp dark grey suit, which fit his body perfectly. His eyes moved over her form, taking in her appearance. She blushed slightly, leaving the plate half-eaten. "Ab kahan bhook lagegi? Bhabhi ka saiyyan jo aa gaya!" Sumer teased her, as Arnav came and stood right in front of her. "You can leave," he told a shocked Sumer and yet left the couple alone, knowing very well, that at this moment the only thing Khushi needed was to be with Arnav.

"You look so beautiful, angel," Arnav spoke huskily, controlling the strong urge to brush his fingers across her flushed cheeks. She looked gorgeous in a deep blue salwar suit that snugly fit over her curvaceous body. The rustic gold work on the shoulders looked as if she had adorned heavy ornaments and created a beautiful contrast to the darkness of the blue. If he were the businessman ASR, he would have noticed all of the above and appreciated Payal's spectacular talent. However, he was only Arnav where Khushi was concerned, and he barely noticed anything beyond her mesmerizing face. Her hazel eyes had a different sparkle today... it was the shine of a dream coming true. Arnav was proud of her and even happier to see her dazzling smile.

He had just taken a step towards her to hold her hand, when Vandy intervened softly, "Arnav! You are not supposed to be here. Gosh, Lover boy! Just keep away from Khushi for a few hours, then you get to take her home." Arnav was about to retort when Payal, Sumer and Akash too came along and teased him. He looked at Khushi, who had been silent all this while, and asked her what the matter was. She shook her head, motioning that everything was all right, yet Arnav knew she was feeling a little jittery. When Vandy dragged her away from the group to begin the event, he quickly messaged her, "Angel. Your one dream is coming true today... so smile... because your brilliant smile is the only thing that I dream of everyday." He looked over at her reading the message and a beautiful smile bloomed on her lips. She looked up at him, their eyes speaking a language of their own, amidst the gathered crowd.

The media quickly settled, as Vandy introduced Khushi to them. She spoke about how the publishing house had been on the lookout for new talent. Then, for the first time in her life, Khushi addressed the media. Her nervous fingers clung to the microphone. Her worried eyes flitted every now and then towards Arnav, drawing strength from him. She spoke about the plot of the book and how thankful she was for the opportunity. She had wanted to thank Arnav, the one man who had made everything possible. However, the discomfort of not being able to show their relationship openly, prevented her. Finally, Vandana invited Arnav on stage and spoke a little about Arnav's college years. She joked about the fact, that the only reason she could afford the presence of Arnav Singh Raizada at this event, was because she knew many of his teenage secrets. As the media relaxed into the evening, Arnav finally unveiled Khushi's book, to a huge round of applause from the audience.

The next couple of hours went by in a daze, as Khushi met different reporters, answering their questions patiently. Arnav had retired to one of the suites, that were booked in the hotel for Vandana's team. He did not want to face the press and face their unwarranted questions about his personal life. This was Khushi's special day and he wanted her to dazzle in the limelight. He had put Sumer in charge, if anything went wrong. Payal and Akash were also around for help. He waited anxiously for things to get over, so he could head back home with his Khushi. Soon, an exhausted Payal, Sumer and Akash barged into the room and stretched themselves out on the comfortable cushioned chairs. "Where is Khushi?" Arnav asked anxiously, to which Payal answered, "She is still with Vandana, meeting a few more people. They should be up in another ten minutes and we can leave immediately."

As soon as Arnav heard this, he said, "Okay then. Let's go down, so that we don't waste time. In fact, the three of you go ahead. I will get Khushi and Vandy along with me. Sumer, you just make these guys comfortable at Shantivan. Maa must be expecting us already." Sumer made a mocking face at Payal, cribbing about this impatient, hyperactive Arnav. The exhausted trio grudgingly left the hotel, while Arnav went back to the function room. Thankfully, the reporters had almost vacated the hall, leaving only a few of Vandana's acquaintances lingering around. He swiftly walked towards where Khushi and Vandy stood with a couple of people, and said brightly, "I am sorry to interrupt, may I borrow these two beautiful ladies for a couple of minutes?" Khushi smiled, happy to see Arnav after two hours of sheer torture. She wondered how he handled the press so often. Their unending and sometimes baseless questions had really drained her. One look at his handsome face however, and a sudden burst of energy seemed to surge within her.

After a quick chat with Vandana, Arnav strode out of the hall, directly towards the exit of the hotel. Khushi discreetly followed him, a couple of minutes later. She walked to the street that led to the main road, not wanting to be seen getting into the Raizada car. The whole tension of the last few days had taken a toll on her emotionally. As soon as she got into the car, she kicked off her heels, rubbing her hurting legs to soothe the pain. She tossed her dupatta and her bag onto the back seat. Sighing in relief, she rested her head against the backrest of the seat and closed her eyes. It was only a couple of minutes later, that she realized the car wasn't moving. She opened her eyes to look at Arnav and gasped at his piercing gaze on her. His desire filled eyes, were taking in her each and every movement. Without any further delay from her end, she went into his waiting arms, feeling the warmth and comfort there - she was home.

He tilted her chin up, looked into her hazel eyes and asked, "Tired?" She shook her head in denial, reveling in his care and replied, "Just happy." That was all that he needed to hear, as he took her lips into a slow, tender kiss. Their lips moulded against each other, neither dominating, only giving to each other. He threaded his fingers in her soft hair, massaging the scalp slowly, to relax her mind, which had been extremely jumpy, for the last few hours. Pulling back her head, he trailed moist kisses all over her face, her jaw and her slender neck, eliciting sensual moans from her delicious mouth. Moving back to her trembling lips, he increased the intensity of the kiss, that made her cling onto him, as the entire world around them swayed out of focus.

A while later, he pulled away, his eyes blazing with desire and the frustration that this wasn't the place to go any further. She was heaving hard, her lips swollen and red with the assault that his lips had made. She looked up shyly into his eyes, his hair ruffled and standing at odd ends. She brushed his hair with her dainty fingers, to make them look as perfect as it had earlier. Not one word was spoken or needed, as their rapidly beating hearts could hear each other clearly. The fogged windows of the vehicle screamed the intensity of the kiss. He smiled at her tenderly, switching on some music, which was their usual companion. As he drove through the light traffic in Delhi, the mood suddenly lightened when a particular song played on the system. Khushi looked at Arnav mischievously and started humming the song. Arnav soon joined in and a few minutes later, they were both bouncing like two crazy teenagers, singing loudly as the song vibrated in the posh Ferrari.

Baabu samajho ishaare hauran pukaare pam pam pam
Yahaan chalatii ko gaadii kahate hain pyaare pam pam pam
Rii baabbaa rii baa baa baa rii baabaa rii baa baa baa rii baabbaa

Sau baaton kii ek baat yahii hai
Kyaa bhalaa to kyaa buraa kaamayaabii men zindagii hai
Tootii phootii sahii chal jaae thiik hai
Sachchii jhoothii sahii chal jaae thiik hai
Aadii tirachhii chalaa-chalaa ke jhuum
Aadii chalaa chalaa ke jhoom
Tirachhii chalaa-chalaa ke jhoom
Bajuuu... Baabuu samajho ishaare hauran pukaare pam pam pam
Yahaan chalatii ko gaadii kahate hain pyaare pam pam pam

Chapter 31

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All I can do is apologize for the delay in updating. But AD had been extremely hectic and I wanted to update 3 stories at one time, as its easier to PM together! Maafi dei do!! 🤗