Chapter 43

She will love him ... care him ... cherish him ... make him happy ... all things she can do ... will do it for him. And in return she will become HIS ... with her love she will make him ... make her ... HIS ... FOREVER.

They broke the kiss after few minutes when they felt out of breath. Arnav trail feather light kisses long her jaw and move over to her slender neck. Her sweet fragrance was driving him crazy. Khushi clutch his coat collar more firmly as she felt her knees would give away soon. Just as he kissed her collar bone, she realizes where this was heading and this was just too much for her right now. She whimpers at his touch and push him lightly. Arnav looked up at her eyes scrunched closed ... trying to normalize her breath.

"Khushi ... ??", Arnav called her softly still holding her close. Khushi opens her eyes and look at his passion filled eyes. Arnav saw some uncertainty in her depths and run one hand on her arm.

"you alright?", he asked in softy husky voice of his. And Khushi nods her head.

"it's just that ... it's all new to me ... and I ... I .. have never been with someone else before like this ... soo ... um ..", said Khushi in low voice looking down at his collar buttons not meeting his eyes.

"really? ...", asked Arnav titling his head a little .. "you didn't even had a boyfriend?", asked Arnav a little amused.

Khushi look at him and shake her head, Arnav could not help but smile at her innocence. Who would say that this girl, who was bold enough to take the risk of exploring things with him, is somewhere nave in such things.

"I had never find someone to be with", said Khushi.

"Ahan ... and now?", asked Arnav in his velvet soft voice. Khushi blush at this and lower her eyes again... "I do now..." said Khushi in her soft voice.

"I am glad ... you did", said Arnav giving half smile of his. Happy with the thought he would her first and would probably be last if all goes well.

"um .. Arnavji .. can we ... can we take this slow ... I mean ..."said Khushi didn't know what will he think of her as at one side she had boldly accepted his offer and now she is asking this being all shy ... she is such a child sometimes, she thought.

"yes we could ..", said Arnav and Khushi looked at him surprise.

"Khushi ... this(he gesture between them with his eyes) is as new to me as to you ... I admit that ... I had dated before ... but ... I have NEVER (emphasizing on that word) felt that sensations and need that I feel with YOU ... we will take this as slow as you like ... I want to know you better ... what you like ... what you don't. I want to know all about you", said Arnav and Khushi nods her head overwhelmed with the feeling that Arnav understood her.

Arnav kissed her forehead and hug her. Khushi was reeling in his warmth when she remembered that there is one important thing that she wants to tell him. So she pulls back from the hug and said, "Arnavji there is something else I want to say".

"hmm ...", said Arnav. "Wo .. um .. you know when yesterday Rahul bhai came here and ...", as Khushi was saying but then they heard someone calling her name and then they heard Arush crying voice.

"Arush ...", said Khushi getting worried and move few feets away.

"Arnavji ... wo Arush", Khushi said and Arnav nods his head ... "I know ... go".

Khushi hurriedly move from there, moving her hands on her kurta to straighten it a bit. When she came out of the room she saw Shobbah standing near the stairs with Arush in her hands who was making a crying sound. Khushi hurriedly went to her and pick Arush in her arms who instantly quiten down and put his head on her chest.

"I was looking for you ... Arush baba woke few minutes back and he started crying ... Anjali ji told me that you went up to look for him but I didn't find you in his room", said Shobbah.

"its ok Shobbah ji... has he eaten something?", Khushi asked and Shobbah shakes her head. "No mam.."

"ok ... you go and get his milk bottle and some smash fruits ... I will go and see if he needs a change of diaper", said Khushi and move towards Anjali's room while Shobbah went down the stair.

Just as Khushi was about to enter the room she looks her right side and saw Arnav looking at her with admiration standing near his room. Khushi smile at him and went in the room, while Arnav storm down the stairs to be with guests.

Rest of the night went smoothly ... Khushi got busy with Arush and Arnav with guests. Both had smile on their faces ... but among all this Khushi forgot what she wanted to tell Arnav. When late night Arnav was changing his clothes he remembered that Khushi wanted to tell him something so he sent a text to her about that and waited for reply but when even after half hour he did not get the reply he went to sleep thinking that she might have slept so he will ask her tomorrow.

-------------- 3^rd May - Thursday @ RM - Morning of Haldi Ceremony

"Khushi bitya ... everything is ready?", asked Nani when Khushi and Payal came for breakfast.

"yes Nani ji ... everything is ready ... we will leave after breakfast", said Khushi and sit down on table and started having her breakfast along with others. Her eyes were looking around for Arnav but didn't found him. Just then she remembered that she still didn't get the chance to tell Arnav that she will be now staying at Rahul's Apartment till the wedding as representing his family. She smacks her head at that. Payal look at her gesturing with head asking, Whats wrong? But Khushi just shakes her head and look at the time ... its around 9.30am

After their kiss at pool side both got busy in their own work and then she was so tired that she slept. When Payal woke her up it was already 8.00am ... she had her bath and pack her stuff and went down for breakfast.

On the other hand Arnav woke up early around 6.00am ... he went for his jog and then to study room so that he could send some important mails. Making time for himself so that he can spend some time with Khushi. As Anjali's haldi ceremony was in the evening so Khushi will be free most of time before that as all preparation was done already. So he thought he could take Khushi out on lunch, spend some time with her. He had already made reservations in a restaurant; arrange flowers for her as he knew she loves flowers. He thought before going to lunch he would buy some gift for her as well, if that doesn't get too much. So when he climbs down the stairs there was an extra spring in his steps. He reaches at the dining table and greets everyone good morning.

Just when he sit down, Payal stood up ... "Khushi hurry ... we have to go to bazaar also ... Rahul ji must be waiting for us ... i will go and get our luggage ...you finish eating till then", with that Payal went towards the stairs to collect her things.

"You are leaving?", the words escape Arnav's mouth before he could know it. Khushi gulped and nods her head. "I and jiji are going to Rahul Bhai's place", said Khushi.

Before Arnav could say Anjali said, "you know Chottey Rahul was upset that he didn't have any sister to perform the haldi ritual so Khushi said that she will perform the ritual for him as they both consider each other as brother and sister now... isn't it sweet of her. So Khushi and Payal both are going to Rahul's place and they will have his haldi ceremony there ... not only that they will be staying there and doing other stuff as well which family do for wedding", as Anjali kept on saying but miss the changing expression of his brother which had turn into anger. All his plans of spending time with Khushi went in vain. He angerly stood up and move towards the stair.

"Arey Chottey ... Where are you going... at least have your breakfast", Anjali called behind her brother.

"not hungry di ...", Arnav shout back and started climbing the stairs.

"Uff ... yeh Chottey bhi na ... don't know why he got angry now", said Anjali shaking her head.

"Arey bitwa ... leave it ... he must be worried due to work ... you eat", said Mamaji. Khushi appetite died at the moment. She too stood up so that he can talk to Arnav, this things was not to get angry on, but then why did she fear that he would?

"Arey bitya ... you didn't finish your breakfast", said Nani looking at Khushi.

"No Naniji ... I am full ... I will go and help jiji", said Khushi and move towards the stairs.

But instead of going towards her room she stopped infront of Arnav's room. She knocked on it and waited. After few seconds she heard his curt voice, "who is it?".

Khushi enter the room and saw him buttoning his shirt. Arnav saw Khushi entering his room but turn in anger and pick his waist coat from recliner and started wearing it.

"Arnavji ... are you going to office?".

"hmmm", that's all Arnav did.

"But why ... you should be staying here ... its Anjali ji's haldi today", said Khushi and move towards him.

"there is no point staying here now ... haldi is in evening I will be back by then ... you don't have to worry about that", said Arnav in mock anger tone.

"Arnav ji ... why are you getting angry ... its not big deal that I am going away ... I will be here for the ceremonies na", said Khushi and put her hand on his shoulder which he jerked away.

"fine its not a bid deal ... but you should have at least told me that you will be staying there", said Arnav now picking up his coat.

"I tried to tell you yesterday remember when we were at pool side then we both got busy I forgot", said Khushi. And remember that yes she was trying to tell her, now he realize what he felt something strange ... Khushi calling Rahul "Bhai". But then he did send her text asking about it.

"I had send you a text ... you could have massage me about it", said Arnav buttoning his coat.

Oooppss ... she didn't check her cell.

"I didn't check my cell today", said Khushi now regretting why she didn't check it.

"wow .. great", said Arnav and pick up his laptop but Khushi stop him.

"Arnav ji I still dont get why are you that angry ... I am sorry I didn't tell you but I don't see any point getting angry at this", said Khushi in a stern tone.

Arnav grabs her arms and said, "I am not angry at that you will be performing rituals for Jiju ... I am angry because you didn't tell me and here I was planning to take you out on lunch ... I even finished most of my work for today as well so that I can spend some time with you ... but there is no point for all of this now as you are going", his tone getting higher with each sentence. He left her and storm out of his room picking his laptop bag.

He wanted to take me out on lunch?? He wanted to spend time with me?? ... thought Khushi. She move to her room with slow steps feeling sad.

-------------- @ Rahul's Apartment - Around Noon - Haldi Ceremony

Rahul looked on happily as Khushi apply haldi on his face arms and foot smiling all the while. He did not know that he could be so lucky to find his sister again in Khushi. And the fact that Khushi is here now performing the haldi ritual for him had made his heart overflow with happy and emotional feelings. His hand raise on his won accord and place it on Khushi's head who looked on him and smile finding his eyes moist a bit. Khushi shakes her head, telling him not to cry and then to lighten his mood she took some haldi on her finger and tweak his nose. Rahul was taken back by the gesture but then he chuckled.

"Hey its my turn now ...", said Payal sitting beside Khushi ... "Sari haldi tum hi laga do ki kiya? (Are you going to put all the haldi?)" and nudge Khushi with elbow.

"Arey nahi jiji ... lo abh tum lagao ...(Oh no jiji ... come now you put it)", said Khushi and move aside. Payal then put haldi on Rahul, smilingly while Khushi took photos of him from her cell.

Rahul look at Payal with same emotions, he was not only lucky to have Khushi as his sister but he was lucky enough to get two in return. He made a promise to him then that he would take care of them, do all the things a brother would do for his sisters.

His mind went back 2 days ago when he thought that he don't have any family and won't be having his haldi ...

"here Nani ji I have brought the mehndi ... just like you told me too", said Rahul while keeping the baskets on the dining table.

"Oh that's great bitwa", said Nani and gesture Jai Prakash to take the baskets to living room.

"Come have lunch ... we were just about to start", said Anjali and Rahul sit beside her. Just then Khushi also came there with Arush in her arms.

"Hello Rahul ji ... how are you ..? Ahann you here again ... its seems like you cant stay away from Anjali ji .. haan", said Khushi teasing Rahul .. and Anjali blush at that.

"Hello Khushi ... I am fine ... and I came here to give the Mehndi and yes you can say that I cant stay away from her", said Rahul while winking towards Anjali who in return hit his arm lightly.

"Arey bitwa just like you bring the Mehndi that will be put on Anjali ... In same way you have to send the Haldi as well", said Nani remembering about haldi.

"But I thought Anjali will have her Haldi here ... so why I need to send the Haldi?", question Rahul.

"Arey bitwa it's a ritual... see the haldi which is put on groom by his family is send to the bride house so that haldi is the first to put on the bride", said Mamiji.

"but I don't ... I am not going have my Haldi Mamiji", said Rahul with sadness. "you all know I don't have any family who can perform the ritual".

Every body stopped eating at that ... Nani and Mamiji felt very sad at that ... how could they forget such a thing. Anjali place her hand on Rahul's.

"its ok Rahul ... it doesn't matter much ... I will have my haldi here ... you don't need to send it", said Anjali squeezing his hand.

"I wish Anjali ... that my sister could be alive ... then she will perform the ritual for me ... I really miss her", said Rahul with moist eyes. Khushi was sad to hear this too ... she looked at everybody and saw fallen faces. Just few minutes ago every one was smiling because of the wedding and now everyone is sad. Just then a thought came in her mind.

"So what if your sister is not here Rahul ji ... mein hoon na", said Khushi with a smile.

"what??", both Rahul and Anjali say at the same time.

"remember Rahul ji ... you told me once that you consider me as your sister ... then why don't you make me your sister ... I will perform the ritual for you ... not only me .. my jiji is coming as well ... and I am sure if she was here ... she would have said the same thing.", said Khushi with excitement.

"here you go bitwa ... your problem is solve", said Mamaji looking at Rahul.

"really you would that Khushi?", said Anjali with moist eyes.

"Why not Anjali ji ... I don't have a brother ... so in that way I would get to do the things which a sister would do for her brother", said Khushi while standing up and went to Rahul who also stood up.

"tell me Rahul bhai ... will you be my brother?", said Khushi with sisterly love and extend her hand for shake.

Rahul was astonished to hear the word "bhai" from her mouth. Feeling overwhelmed he hug Khushi and said, "yeah I will be ... thank you Khushi."

"No thank you Rahul bhai ...", said Khushi pulling back from the hug ... "let me tell you ... my jiji says I am a crazy girl and beware of me I can do all kind of mischievous things", said Khushi and everyone laugh at that.

"not a problem ... I am looking forward to it", said Rahul and once again hug Khushi.

His thoughts process broke when he felt someone was moving his arm.

"where are you lost Rahul bhai?", asked Khushi.

"Ahaan I guess ... thinking about Anjali ji", said Payal teasing him.

Rahul shakes his head, "No just thinking how I got so lucky that I crave for my one sister that I lost and now I got two".

Khushi and Payal look at each other. "Rahul bhai I have already told you ... don't be sad ... where ever your sister is must be happy to see you ... and we also don't have a brother you know ... we always craved for one ... and now we got that in you ... so we are lucky as well to have you", said Khushi while holding his hand.

"Ok no more sad talk ... Rahul bhai don't forget your friends are here as well", said Payal looking at the 3 men standing behind waiting for their turn to put the haldi. Khushi had suggested the idea that Rahuls's friend should also put haldi on him. After the ritual was over Payal lead Rahul's friend for lunch and Khushi waited for Rahul to come from his shower.

Rahul came after 15 or 20 minutes and saw Khushi standing in living room.

"Khushi why aren't you having lunch?", asked Rahul moving towards her.

"Was waiting for you ... I want to give you something", said Khushi. "What?", asked Rahul.

Khushi bring her hand forward showing him a red thread.

"I know its not rakhsha bandhan", said Khushi with a giggle ... "but I wanted to give you this rakhsha dhaga ... I saw Anjali ji put the same on Arnavji and Akash ... so I asked her if I could have one so that I can put it on you", said Khushi with sisterly love.

Rahul did not know how many times he could get overwhelmed with the feelings but today it seems like not stopping of it. With out saying anything he held his right wrist up and Khushi happily wound the red thread around his wrist.

"I pray to Devi Maiya that she protects you always and bring happiness in your life", said Khushi when she finished the knot. Rahul put same hand on her head caressing it. Just then he remember and say, "well I don't have anything to give you now ... but I promise I will give you soon". Khushi put her hands on hips, "you better ... I wont let you forget that easily". Rahul chuckled and wound his arms around her back.

"fine with me ... now come have lunch ... then you have to go to Shantivan", said Rahul and both went for lunch.

-------------- @ RM- Around Evening - Anjali's Haldi Ceremony

Payal and Khushi had come there with the haldi bowl from which they have put it on to Rahul. They place the bowl near Anjali who was sitting on a small chair wearing white dress. First Nani came and put haldi on her, then Mamiji, Payal, Khushi and then Anjali's other friends and women from their community.

Arnav was standing a distance away with Akash and Mamaji ... looking at his sister's smiling face. Then his eyes fell on Khushi who was wearing a bright yellow and orange dress. Just looking like a sunflower, as sunflower move in the direction of sun but here it was opposite. The flower was standing on its point and the sun was moving in its direction.

(Khushi's dress)

Arnav was watching all her moves, how she giggles along other girls when they put haldi on Anjali's face, how she put that strand of her hair back to her ear, how she tug her dupatta every now then. Her luscious lips curve into a full dazzling smile. Khushi felt the same sensation she always does when Arnav eyes are on her. She turns in his direction and caught him looking at her. Just then he avert her eyes, the smile fades from her face remembering that how Arnav plans to take her out on lunch and she went away making him angry on ruining his plan. She would have felt the same if she had plan something for Arnav and could not fulfil it. So she wanted to apologies or anything to make his mood better.

The ceremony was over in an hour, the ladies from the community was gather around Anjali and Nani ... talking. Khushi went upstairs to spend her time with Arush, as she had no other way. She tried to talk to Arnav but he had ignored her which in return made her angry. She spends the next hour playing with Arush and feeding him. Later she also put him to sleep. When she went down everyone had started their dinner. She saw Arnav standing near the buffet table, which was placed in corner of living room for the guests. She picks up a plate and went near him, extending it towards him with a smile. Arnav give one look to the plate and one look to her then turn away without saying anything. Khushi huff in anger and turn to put food on her plate.

"Arey ... where bhai went?", said Akash coming near Khushi.

"I guess he went to his room", said Khushi looking at Arnav going up the stairs.

"what? Without eating ...", said Akash with some worry. "he didn't even had his breakfast and he didn't eat much at lunch either ... I don't know if he had taken his medicines or not".

"what ...???", said Khushi looking Akash with worry her hand stopped in between which was about to put food in her plate.

"I will tell Di ... she might be able to make him eat", said Akash and went from there.

Khushi looked at the dinner, not wanting to eat knowing that Arnav is not eating. Just then Payal came to her asking why she is not eating. Khushi told her that she didn't have mood to eat but Payal insist her by putting food in her plate knowing her little sister's love for food and the fact that she can't stay away from food. Not wanting to make Payal worry, Khushi ate her food half heartedly. After dinner, one by one guest started to leave.

Khushi went to kitchen in search of Hari prakash and found him arranging the food in fridge.

"Hari prakash ji ... did Arnav ji have his dinner?", asked Khushi.

"No bitya ... I did take the dinner to his room but he refuse to eat but then Anjali ji give him juice", said Hari Prakash. Khushi sighed, oh well at least he has juice, she thought and went from there.

It was Around 10.00pm and all the guests have left, Nani, Akash, Mamaji and Mamiji have retired to their rooms as well. Leaving Payal and Khushi with Anjali in her room.

"Come Khushi we have to leave as well", said Payal.

"jiji ... can we stay here tonight please ... I want to stay here with Arush ... we will go tomorrow morning", said Khushi picking Arush in her arms who had awaken after an hour when Khushi had made him sleep earlier.

"Haan Payal stay here its late ... Arush won't go to sleep without her now", said Anjali with a smile and Payal agree. As now she had come to know the love between Khushi and Arush and she cannot deny Khushi that. So Payal went to their room while Khushi stay behind with Arush. After an hour or so, Arush had slept again thankfully. So Khushi bid good night to Anjali and went to her room ... she find Payal fast asleep. So she changes her clothes and went near bed. Just then she thought to check on Arnav. If he is awake she could talk to him ... and this time she won't let him ignore her. So she went to his room but found it empty ... She check the pool area ... Arnav was not there as well. So she went down to see If Arnav was in study room.

Meanwhile Arnav was feeling a bit dizzy as he had not eaten properly today, he had also didn't take his medicine for night, for one he was angry on Khushi and second he had juice and later forget about medicine when he got some work call. So he thought he won't be feeling weak but he was wrong. So now he was standing in Kitchen looking for something sweet. Just as he was about to take the bowl of kheer out from fridge he heard the sound of foot steps. He looks up and found Khushi standing few feets away from him.

"Arnav ji are you hungry ... do you need something?", asked Khushi with slight worry in her voice.

Arnav close the fridge door, "Nothing ...", he said and move from there. Just when he passed Khushi he felt his head heavy and he stopped. Khushi turn and look at him with worry.

Arnav sway a bit, he grab the kitchen slab ... Khushi went to him in an instant grabbing his arm.

"Arnav ji ... are you ok ... what happened?", asked Khushi getting more worried.

"something sweet ... need something sweet", said Arnav in low voice taking the support of kitchen slab, feeling he would collapse any second. Khushi hurriedly went to fridge and take the kheer bowl out. She went to Arnav and held out spoonful of kheer. Arnav eat it slowly. Khushi give him 3, 4 more spoon full which Arnav ate without any protest. Khushi held the 5^th spoonful to Arnav but he stops it and straightens up. Khushi put the bowl aside and held his shoulder with one hand.

"Arnav ji ... have you eaten anything? Have you taken your medicine?", asked Khushi but Arnav avert her eyes.

"I am fine", said Arnav in stern tone and move past her. He had taken only one step when Khushi move infront of him halting his step.

"Now listen here Mr. Raizada ... I have already told you once and am telling you again ... don't affect your health due to your stupid anger", said Khushi in angry tone. Arnav was taken aback by her tone but before he could say anything she grabs his wrist and takes him out of kitchen to dining table.

"Don't you dare move from here ... (she make Arnav sit on chair)I am bringing your dinner.", said Khushi a bit loud with equal anger. She went back to kitchen. In next 10 minutes she warms the food in micro oven and went back to Arnav. Who was sitting there clutching head in his hands ... he wanted to move from there but the weakness wasn't allowing him.

Khushi put the plates in front of him and sit beside him. Arnav push the plate away and tried to stand up but Khushi held his arm and push him back on chair.

"I said ... don't you dare move from here", said Khushi pointing a finger to him, then she takes a morsel of food and bring near his mouth. Arnav push her hand away, Khushi takes a breath controlling her anger. She again takes the morsel near his mouth and Arnav push it away again. Khushi take the morsel again near his mouth for the third time and Arnav push it away more forcibly and the morsel fall from her hand on the table.

"Seriously?? ...", said Khushi looking at him with anger then she stood up and pick the morsel from table and bring it near his mouth. "now don't act like Chottey Singh Raizada (Arnav look at her in anger and wanted to say something when Khushi continued)... this stubborness doesn't suit you ... leave it for your son ... Now open your mouth", said Khushi a bit loud.

"what th ...", Arnav wanted to say what the but Khushi put the morsel in his mouth hurriedly.

"Stupid Laad Governer ...", Khushi was saying when Arnav cut in.

"Excuse me ... what did you just say?", said Arnav whiling gulping down the morsel.

"yes you heard it ... You are a Laad Governer (Khushi take another morsel of food) you have to be stubborn about everything", said Khushi and brought it near his lips which Arnav take without any protest now.

Khushi take another morsel, "you know if you don't eat properly ... your health gets affected (bring near his lips and Arnav eat the morsel again) ... But no ... you don't listen to anyone ... you do whatever you wishes and keep scaring others", said Khushi grumpily and make him eat another morsel.

"have you ever thought ... if you get sick ... Anjali ji and Nani ji will get worried ... poor they ... they don't force you because they are scare of your anger ... you know you have to take medicine ... then why are you being careless.", said Khushi and make him eat 2, 3 more morsel of food, which Arnav eat without any protest, his eyes were glue on her face which was clearly showing annoyance.

"haven't I tell you not to affect your health because of your stupid ... stupid anger ... but no ... you never listen ... you're not a kid ... understand ... you have to take care of your health ... eat on time and take medicine on time", Khushi kept saying in annoyed tone while giving him morsels of food. Arnav was very amuse by her antics and was quite enjoying having food with her hand.

On the other hand Khushi kept her stream of complaints without realizing that she had fed him 2 whole rotis and some rice. Arnav was quite full now so when Khushi take another spoonful of rice he held her hand and Khushi looked at him in anger ready to burst again, but Arnav said, "I am full...".

Khushi kept the spoon in plate and stood up. "Good ... now go and have your medicine like a good boy ... if you don't then I won't hesitate to shove it down your throat", said Khushi angrily and went to kitchen.

Arnav just smile at her cuteness ... she looks extra cute when she in angry ... he want to pull her and kiss her but he have to wait for that because at this moment Khushi was in full tigress mood. So he went upstairs and has his medicines.

Khushi wash the dishes and kept the remaining food in fridge ... she went up to stairs ... thinking how much worried she got when she saw Arnav sway ... for a moment her heart beat stopped ... "Stupid Laad Gorverner ... jaan le k chotrain gey meri ik din (he will take my life one day)"... Khushi murmured.

Khushi was so busy in her thoughts that she didn't saw Arnav coming to her side, she realize when Arnav pull her towards him and she came crashing down on his chest.

"Whaaa ...", Khushi want to say but then Arnav take her lips in a searing kiss plunging his tongue in her mouth, tasting her sweet nectar. Khushi grabs his shoulder and just as she let herself drown in the kiss he pull back abruptly ...

"That's ... your punishment", said Arnav and went back to his room and close the door.

Khushi stood there few seconds thinking what just had happen and when she realizes she pouted sadly and a bit angrily. "Stupid Laad Governer ..."she said with stomping her foot and went back to her room.

-------------- 4^th May - Friday @ RM - Evening - Sangeet Ceremony

Today's theme was purple and blue ... left side of the living room was empty with purple and blue drapes cover the wall behind ...in front was a long blue carpet which will be dance floor and ahead of that was rows of chair ... with a big long sofa in front on which Rahul and Anjali was sitting with Nani and Mamiji on either side. And behind the chairs were the stairs going up ... on which Khushi was climbing going to Anjali's room to check on Arush. The baby was asleep ... but Khushi felt a little sad that he cannot be a part of the function but still she ask Shobbah to bring him down in case if he awakes.

"Khushi ... come quick ... the sangeet is about to start", said Payal emerging at the door.

"Coming jiji ... ", said Khushi and give a peck to Arush's forehead and went downstairs with Payal.

The lights were out when they reach the living room ... just then the music starts ...

"Desi boys ... song from movie Desi Boys" and then spot light focus on NK and Akash ... who both were wearing ... black jeans and jacket with white shirt inside.

Make some noise for the desi boyz
The boyz, the boyz

Akash and NK started dancing just like the way in the movie ... Khushi clapped loud for them.

Let's go c'mon
Kudiyan de dil utte rule karange, ehi bazaaran vich phaili hai hawa
Todange Romeo de love da record vi, likhange ishqe da paath nawa
Hum yaaron bigde hain, dil apna hai shareef bada
Make some noise for the desi boyz ...

The song continued and both Akash and NK dance really well. Payal was all the time looking at Akash who was looking utterly handsome according to her. She had a slight hunch that she was getting attracted to Akash. But she quickly brushes the thought and focus on enjoying the dance. But time to time her eyes were drifting to Akash on their own accord. When the song finish every body clapped.

Then next came on stage was NK and Khushi and then the music start ... NK had already change into white kurta Pajama

"Dili wali girlfriend ... Song from Yeh jawani hai Dewani).

Khushi sway her hips with the music and NK follows her with the steps.

O what a look, what a grace
Tenu hi karaan main chase
What a naksh, what a nain
Dil tera ho gaya fan

NK dance with the lyrics following Khushi here the there and Khushi kept on showing attitude with different expressions.

What a smile, what a style
Lut'ti neendo ki ye file
Kabhi soft, kabhi rude
Killer tera attitude

Both stopped and then NK holds Khushis hand and push her towards him as such that her back collided with him. But she jerk his hand and move way with a hand on her waist.

Tere liye hi toh signal tod taad ke
Aaya dilliwali girlfriend chhod chhad ke

Tere liye hi toh signal tod taad ke ... Aaya dilliwali girlfriend chhod chhad ke

NK dance the same steps as in the movie ... and move around Khushi.

O teri ankh da ishaara mujhe fraud lage
Tu toh Majnu aawaara by God lage.

Khushi dance the same step as in the movie with the facial expression as well ... the song goes on and they both dance with rhythm.

Arnav eyes were glue to Khushi ... She was looking gorgeous in simple silver white Lehnga choli with red border.

(Khushi's dress)

It's the first time he was seeing Khushi dancing with abundance and her moves are somehow feel seductive to him. Those who don't know about Khushi and NK will surely say that they are couple as both were dancing very comfortably with each other and also the song depicts two lovers. Though Arnav knew that NK and Khushi are only friends but he could help but feel irritated whenever NK touches Khushi on waist or her arms.

Just when these lyrics came ...

Tujh se bhi zyada shona
Koi handsome munda hona
Leke jayega sone mein tol tal ke Oye..

Khushi turn and look at Arnav and she wink while pointing in his direction for a second or two... Arnav startled and raise his eyebrows at her ... the songs continues and everybody enjoys their dance. When the dance come to end ... NK picks Khushi off the floor with his hands under her hips and Khushi grabs his shoulders ... giving her full smile. NK then take a around and hold Khushi. Just then her eyes fell on Arnav and she could feel his facial expression change ... she quickly tap NK on shoulder and gesture to put her down ... which he did ... every body clapped.

Arnav move from there and went to stand next to stairs. Khushi comes to Anjali as she call her and hug her ... Telling Khushi how she liked her dance. Khushi looked up and but didn't see Arnav so she move where he was standing before. Then after few second she saw him standing near stairs talking to a guest. Just then Arnav turns his head in her direction ... Khushi wave at him with a smile but Arnav didn't respond.

Khushi pouted towards him and send a text to him ... Arnav feels his cell buzz so he take it and saw a msg from Khushi ... he opened it.

Khushi: Are you still angry ?

Arnav wanted to smile but he controlled ... he replied back.

Arnav: Hmmm

Khushi look up at Arnav but he averts her eyes ... so she msg again...

Khushi: will sorry work 😳?

After few seconds her cell beeped and she saw a msg from Arnav.

Arnav: No ...

Khushi felt sad but she wanted to make his mood better so she asked ...

Khushi: then ... 😕?

Arnav think for a while and replied and look up towards Khushi smirk playing on his lips. Khushi saw the msg and her mouth open in an "O" ... she looked up at Arnav and saw his smirk ... anger rose in her. Just then a guest came to Arnav and greets him. Then after few minutes when he turns towards Khushi she was nowhere. He looked here and there but he didn't saw her ... so he move out of living room area to see if she is in Hall or dining area. He was near dining table when he heard footsteps he turns and saw Khushi standing with her hands on hips.

"what did you just send me?", said Khushi moving a step ahead.

"what? ... what I want you to do simple", said Arnav with a shrug of his shoulders.

Khushi mouth open again and she point her finger towards his chest.

"How dare you say that ... I know I had accepted what you say that there is something special between us and ready to explore things but it doesn't mean I would do that (poke his chest again and Arnav looked at her astonish) ... do you understand ... Arnavji ... how can you even think ..." Khushi was saying in her irritation when Arnav grabs her arms and turns her around ... now that her back was facing dining table.

Khushi gasped and look at Arnav fearing his anger but all she could see was ... his smoldering eyes. He put his finger on her lips.

"Chup ... bilkul chup (shutup ... just shut up)", said Arnav in low husky voice. Khushi looked at his finger then at him.

"Bhut bolti ho tum (you talk too much)... Khushi Gupta ... all I said is to "spend a night with me" ... means spend time with me ... go on dinner ... a drive may be ... just want to be with you for sometime", said Arnav and remove his finger.

"ohh ... ap yeh kehna chahtey they (you wanted to say that)... mujey laga k.. (i thought that ...)", Khushi said in daze and Arnav quirk his eyebrows.

"Acha kia laga tumhain ...(ok .. what did you think?)", asked Arnav.

"Humein laga k ap ka matlab hai k...(i thought what you meant was ...)", said Khushi a blush coming on her cheeks.

"K ...?", asked Arnav looking into her eyes which got lower with shyness.

"Gosh ... Khushi Gupta ... what a gutter mind you have", said Arnav with a slight chuckled.

"Haww ...", said Khushi and push him away. "Kia kaha ap ne? (What did you just said?)", said Khushi

"you know what I say ...", said Arnav smirking. "here i was asking to spend time with me ... and you were thinking ...", Arnav left his sentence incomplete.

"Hum nahi jayein gey kahin bhi ap k sath ... samjhey (i wont go anywhere with you ... understand)", said Khushi and move past him but Arnav caught her wrist and twist it behind her ... her chest touching his.

"you don't have a choice Khushi Gupta ..", said Arnav boring his eyes into her. A slight shiver run up her spine but she didn't let her composure down.

"Dinner per le janey k liye koi zaberdasti kerta hai kia? (does someone force to take someone out on dinner?)", said Khushi trying to free her hand but Arnav push her more into him.

"Jo bhi samajh lo ... jana toh patrey ga ... Ager nahi toh... (think what you want to ... you have to go ... if not then ...)", said Arnav.

"toh ..?", said Khushi with confusion.

"toh utha ker lay jaon ga (then i will carry you away)", said Arnav with a smirk ... Khushi looked at him astonish and a memory came to her when Arnav came to take her to RM as Anjali wasn't coming out ... and when she refuse he had pick her on his shoulders and take to his car. She blushes but she wanted to tease him.

"Hum nahi jayein gey ... bus (i wont go ... thats it)", said Khushi with high chin and look at Arnav

"Soch lo ..." said Arnav ... "Soch lia", Khushi replied the instant.

"thek hai ... (leaving her hand and move past her but then turn and whisper in her ear) ... baad mein mut kehna k warn nahi kia (dont complain later that i didnt warn you)", said Arnav in low husky voice and left from there.

Khushi turn her head slightly and saw him going to living room area. Her lips widened in a smile ... wow ... dinner with Arnav Singh Raizada ..., she thought while clap her hands together and giggle.

TO BE CONTINUED ... (Next update on next saturday - 7th december)

- i just could not stop my self adding the scene where Arnav nearly faints due to low sugar and Khushi feed him jaleebi ... but i made the scenario different 😳 ... i hope you like that...

- next few updates will be more on Arshi ... so just forget about kidnapping and Old man, his son etc ... and enjoy Arshi moments.

- Dont forget to press like and COMMENT ... 😉

Its been a year since our beloved show IPKKND has ended ... but it is still alive in our hearts and mind. and it will remain that way for many years ahead ... I have never been addicted to a show as much as i was of IPK ... and never loved jodi before as i loved Arshi/Sarun ... the proof is that i m writing a story on them which i thought i could never do ...

The first reason to write this story is to pay tribute to Arnav Khushi and Sanaya Barun for giving us a wonderful show which touched our hearts.

And second ... i missed IPk so much and i use to cry alot ... to find some solace from it i started to write.

And i want to SALUTE all other WRITERS out there who have written wonderful FFs, SSs and OSs about ARSHI ... they have played a major part in keeping IPK and Arshi alive among us. Do like and comment on their stories to show ur appreciation dears ... TC..!!