Chapter 51
-------------------- Next day Sunday - Morning
Arnav eyes opened with the sound of door bell ... he quickly looks towards the bed and sigh from relief ... Khushi was sound sleep. He hadn't slept properly at night. Thinking of Khushi, of what happened and what could have happened if he hadn't reached on time. He had been waking up in between his sleep to check up on Khushi and he was glad that Khushi was peacefully sleeping ... not having nightmare about the incident, no waking up with scream.
He stands up and arch his back to relax his muscles ... his back was paining a bit. Sofa was small for his 6 foot long figure; he had never slept on sofa before. The door bell ring again ... he quickly move out of bedroom to see who was it before the person rings again and probably wake Khushi up. He opens the door and surprised to see Aman and Lavanya before him.
"Aman?", said Arnav asking what he is doing here. But instead get a question from Lavanya. "How is Khushi?.
"Fine ... better I guess", said Arnav and give them space to come inside.
"She sleeping?", asked Lavanya looking at Arnav and he nodded his head. Lavanya move towards the bedroom. Arnav didn't question as he knew that Aman, Lavanya share a friendly bond with Khushi so they are worried for her. He watched her went into the bedroom and turn to Aman.
"ASR we have to move for airport in an hour", said Aman after few seconds coming direct to the point. He roams his eyes on Arnav's face which clearly looked tried. He knew that he wasn't able to sleep properly just like him and Lavanya. They both had trouble sleeping last night, thinking about Khushi.
"what?", said Arnav getting surprised. "What time is it?" he asked Aman.
"Around 8 am", said Aman. Arnav sit on the sofa and rub the back of his neck.
"you ok ... ? You haven't slept last night properly ... right?", said Aman who could clearly see some redness in Arnav's eyes due to lack of sleep. Arnav look at Aman surprise that he knows about it ... Arnav didn't deny and nod his head.
"well me too ... worried for Khushi", said Aman and Arnav acknowledge it with slight gesture of his head.
"Khushi is sleeping ... I don't wana disturb her ... so she won't be going back today", said Arnav as he relax back in sofa.
Aman wasn't surprise ... he somewhere knew this would happen. He didn't say anything and look at Arnav to continue what he had in mind. Thats the bond between Aman and Arnav ... they never beat around the bush with each other ... always come directly to the point and always give space to other to say what he want to and understand each other's silence.
"I will stay here with her until she is fine ... if she goes now others will try to talk to her and she is not in a state to talk with others ... and others will ask her again and again whats wrong with her if she isn't her chirpy self ... it will take her time to be normal.", said Arnav.
Aman was happy and amuse at the same time. Happy to know that Arnav cares for Khushi and amuse that he notice Khushi's chirpiness and knows that after the incident it will take her some time to get back to her normal self.
Well I might underestimated the thing between them ... Lavanya was right ... it is much more than it seems, thought Aman with a smile.
Arnav raise an eyebrow at Aman when he saw him smiling.
"What should I tell others?", asked Aman ... before Arnav could say anything he continues, "I can tell them Khushi is not well so that she cannot come ... but why are you staying back for her ... what reason should I give for that?", said Aman.
Arnav was stunned at the direct question. He was blank for a moment ... what he should answer for that. Seeing him blank Aman said, "they can't ask you obviously but they will talk among themselves that why for a mere employee the ASR ... their boss is staying back and ..." Aman was saying ...
"She is not a mere employee ...", said Arnav cutting Aman in between. Aman could sense the anger in his voice ... he smile inwardly wanting to know what Arnav actually consider Khushi.
"She is more than that ... she ...", Arnav was saying but stopped. "She is what ASR?", asked Aman looking in his eyes.
"Leave that Aman", said Arnav and stood up not wanting to tell how important Khushi has become for him. "I don't care what others think ... I am staying with back Khushi and that's final".
Aman smiles ... who better than him knows Arnav ... he had been with him from past 8 years ... though Arnav don't say it but Aman knew he is the only close one Arnav had after his Di. Arnav had always have difficulty is saying his actual feelings or showing emotions and right know seeing the concern for Khushi ... Aman knew right then and there that Khushi had reach the place in his heart which is only reserved for his close ones and beside his Di and him now Khushi is also become close to him. Although it will take time for Arnav to actual realize that fact or may be who knows he had already realized that fact.
Before Aman could say anything they heard Lavanya, "I will stay back too". Both Aman and Arnav turn towards the bedroom to see Lavanya coming to them.
"Khushi?", asked Arnav instantly taking a step toward Lavanya. "Relax ASR ... she is still sleeping", said Lavanya and Arnav got relaxed.
"Lavanya why ...", Aman was about ask why she wanted to stay back but Lavanya gesture him to stop.
"I don't want others to get suspicious about why ASR stays back for Khushi", said Lavanya looking at Arnav. Arnav was about to say he don't care but Lavanya said, "I know you don't care what others think ... but think about Khushi ... they might gossip about her later when she gets back to India ... I will stay back on pretence of taking care for her and you could do that in actual ... I won't come in between ... I promise", said Lavanya giving a mischievous smile to Arnav and he raised his eyebrow asking her "really-is-this-the-time-to-joke".
"And Aman would say that you have some work with VF or we can say you are also not well ... what say haan", said Lavanya with same mischievous smile.
"oh no ... we can't say that ... or else I too have to stay back on the pretence of looking after him", said Aman teasingly.
"What the ...", said Arnav looking angrily at Aman and Lavanya.
"No ... Aman is going back ... relax", said Lavanya looking at Arnav's angry expression.
"Whatever", said Arnav and move towards the bedroom to check on Khushi. Lavanya and Aman passes a knowing smile o each other.
-------------------- Around 10 am
Khushi opens her eyes and squint them as the light was directly falling on her face from the window. She slowly got up and sit on the bed ... her head was heavy. She looked around ... it was not her room ... then where is she? She thought and last night event flash before her eyes ... she grips the bed sheet in her fist and her other hand immediate flew to her neck ... Her OM locket?
Then she remembers she had given it to Arush before coming to London. It was the first time that she did not have her locket with her and first time a bad thing happen with her. She knew the locket had always protected her somehow ... exactly what he had said to her all those years ago.
But now Arnavji is with her. He had save me, she thought and relaxes as she remembers how Arnav came and pushes the guy and last thing she remembers was being in Arnav's arm.
He must have bring me here ... its his room, thought Khushi.
As her hand roam on her neck, she misses Arush so much. She so wish that she could be in India and with Arush. He would have brought some peace to her mind through his innocence and the love he had for his mama. Few tears roll down her cheek as she craves for her baby.
"Oh Khushi you woke up", said Lavanya as she came in room and saw Khushi getting up and came on bed sitting beside her. Khushi was momentarily taken aback seeing Lavanya beside her.
"Lavanya ji ... what .. you", said Khushi and slid back on bed a little. She roams her eyes around the room seeing if Arnav is there or not.
Lavanya knew she was looking for Arnav ... slight fear still visible in her eyes.
"Relax Khushi ... ASR has gone to VF office ... he had some work there ... he didn't want to leave you alone so I said I will be here with you until he comes back", said Lavanya caressing Khushi's head.
Khushi nods her head and looks down ... she really want Arnav now ... she want to feel his warmth ... want to hug him ... want to feel the protectiveness of his arms around her.
Lavanya could read the sadness on her face. "He won't take long Khushi", said Lavanya with a smile. Khushi looked at her but say nothing.
"I got your stuff here ... you freshen up ok ... till I order some breakfast", said Lavanya and Khushi nodded again. Lavanya help her to come out of bed ... that's when Khushi realize that she is not wearing her party dress.
"my dress ... how .. I ...", said Khushi worried thinking that who changed her clothes ... did Arnavji do it ... she thought ...
"I changed your dress with the help of doctor ... the dress got tore so ...", said Lavanya and seeing the fearful expression on her face she stopped. Khushi clutched her tee as she remembers how her dress got tore. She started to breathe heavily ... Lavanya got worried.
"Khushi ..." she called her loudly ... Khushi jerk up at the loud voice.
"You hungry ... I am so hungry ... I didn't eat breakfast you know ... I was waiting for you to wake up", said Lavanya making a sad face.
"you didn't eat?", said Khushi and Lavanya was glad that Khushi mind got distracted she nodded her head up and down giving a sad pout.
"why ... you should have eaten Lavanya ji", said Khushi. "I was waiting for you to wake up ... now that you are let me order some food for us ... till then you go freshen up", said Lavanya pushing Khushi towards the washroom.
After few minutes Khushi came out of the washroom and saw Lavanya talking on fone.
"you boarded the plane? ... Ahan ... ok ... don't worry Aman ... Khushi is fine ... I am here ... yeah ... you take care baye sweetheart", said Lavanya and cut the call.
Hearing the conversation Khushi realize that today was their flight back to India.
"Lavanya ji ...", said Khushi a bit loudly. "Today was our flight ... you here ... means you missed it ... and me too ... and Arnavji ... why ... whats the time ... do we still have time to catch the flight?", said Khushi hurriedly as she come near to Lavanya.
"Khushi ... calm down", said Lavanya grabbing her arms ... "I was just talking to Aman ... they are in plane ... they are about to take off in few minutes ... and your were not well so obviously ASR said that he and you are not going back until he thinks that you are alright ... he knew you would be uncomfortable among so many people ... so that's why", said Lavanya.
Arnavji missed his flight because of me?, thought Khushi ... she was happy as well as sad.
"but then why you ... I mean ...", said Khushi wanting to ask why she also stayed back.
"well not to raise the suspiciousness ... I stayed back ... I guess you know what I am trying to say right?", said Lavanya looking into Khushi's eyes. Khushi avert her eyes knowing well what she meant. Just then the door bell ring ...
"great ... food is here", said Lavanya and went out of bedroom.
-------------------- After an hour
Lavanya was trying to converse with Khushi ... but she wasn't getting her usual response ...
ASR was right ... she will take time to get to her normal chirpy self, thought Lavanya sadly.
When they were having breakfast only Lavanya was talking and Khushi was just nodding her head ... When asked any question she will just answer in few words. And even now Lavanya was talking to her for past few minutes but Khushi seems aloof ... her mind was somewhere else ... but one thing Lavanya notice that Khushi was looking at the bedroom door every now and then ... Lavanya knew that she was looking for Arnav. Lavanya smile inwardly ... she was glad that at least someone could make Khushi comfortable and she was amuse at the fact that ... that some was Arrogant, ruthless, emotionless and short temper ASR ... who knew that someday ARNAV SINGH RAIZADA will becomes the source of comfortness for someone.
Both of their trances broke with a sound. They look at the bedroom door and saw Arnav standing there; wearing Black pant, waistcoat with dark blue shirt ... his coat was in his hand. Arnav was looking at Khushi ... she was looking better ... she was wearing a grey tee with dark blue jeans. Her hair opened but clipped.
(Khushi's dress)
Lavanya stood up seeing Arnav, she looked back at Khushi and saw the relief which was missing since she woke up. Lavanya smile and turn to Arnav.
"ASR you back ... good ... I have some work ... I was waiting for you ... ok Khushi see you later", said Lavanya tapping Khushi's arm and went towards the door ... she pass a smile to Arnav and went out.
Arnav move in the room and stood some distance away from Khushi ... his eyes not leaving her face. Arnav watch her looking at him then on floor, then again at him then on floor. He just wanted to grab her and crush her in his arm ... assure his heart that she is fine ... all the time he has been in office he was thinking of Khushi ... he just couldn't wait to go back and be with her. And now standing infront of him he was a bit hesitant ... wait Arnav Singh Raizada is hesitating? ... Yes he is ... and the reason is the person standing in front of him ... he didn't want her to get scared. He knew that she is still somewhere afraid because of the incident ... so he didn't want to do anything that will scare her more ... he just want her to be ok.
"Khushi ...", Arnav called her softly ... Khushi looked up at him waiting to see what will he say ... what will he do ... She wanted to hug him tight ... to bathe in his warmth ... but she was hesitant ... she was scared too but not from Arnav ... from the situation.
What if Arnav didn't want her after the incident ... what if he thinks that she is impure now ... what if ... and her thought process broke when she heard Arnav.
"tum thek ho?", said Arnav... his all time dialogue that is specially reserved for Khushi. Khushi look into his eyes which were only pouring care and worriness for her. Her eyes got teary and she sniffed.
"Khushi ...", said Arnav a move a step towards her seeing her teary eyes. But before he could say something else ... Khushi move towards him fast and hug him tight. Arnav stumble a step back with the force of her hug and momentarily get shocked at her action. But when he heard her sobs he wound his arm around her and hug her back tightly too.
"Shhhshhh ... its ok Khushi ... everything is fine", said Arnav rubbing her back with one hand. Khushi was relaxed ... finally she got what she was seeking since the time she woke up. After few minutes Khushi clam down but didn't break the hug. They stood there for few more minutes in each other embrace.
Arnav broke the hug and cupped her cheeks ... he wiped the tears and the kiss her forehead. Khushi closed her eyes when she saw him leaning on her face ... but when she felt his lips of forehead she got surprised ... she was expecting him to kiss on her lips but he didn't.
"Come ... sit ...", said Arnav taking her hand and making her sit on the bed. Then he hand her a glass of water ... which she drank slowly.
"Khushi ... I want you to do something for me ... Can you?", asked Arnav as he sit beside her on bed. Khushi got nervous a bit thinking what he wanted from her. Arnav seeing her nervousness quickly said.
"Relax ... I just wanted you to come with me to some place ... I have some work there ... but its ok if you don't want to ... I understand", saying that Arnav was standing up but Khushi held his hand and Arnav sit again on bed.
"I ... I will come", said Khushi and Arnav smile. Khushi open her mouth to ask where he is going ... but just then Arnav cell ring.
Arnav take out his cell and saw his Di calling him. "Khushi I will back ok", saying that Arnav went out of room. Arnav told his Di that he had some work that's why he won't be coming today but a day later. He purposely didn't mention anything of Khushi ... he knew if he do his Di would call Khushi. That's why he also went out of room so that Khushi didn't hear he is talking to Di.
After a minute he comes back to room. Standing near the door he saw Khushi lost somewhere ... her gaze stuck on the floor. He hated seeing her aloof ... a girl who always full of energy and chirpiness ... who always make jokes and make other people laugh ... is now sting there all lost ... no sign of energy. Arnav knew what he had to do to bring smile on that face ... he also knew what will bring that bright smile on her face ... so he turn back and make a call.
"yeah David ... did you do what I asked for", asked Arnav. "Yes Sir ... I talk to them as well", said David.
"Good ... send me the address", said Arnav and cut the call. He came back in the room and went to Khushi. He grabs her hand from bed and Khushi jerk at the touch and stood up immediately.
"relax ... its me", said Arnav softly and Khushi calm down.
"Come ... we have to go", said Arnav. "Now ?", asked Khushi. And Arnav nodded his head. He takes Khushi out of suite with him ... holding her hand all the while.
-------------------------------------------
Arnav was reading a file while Khushi was looking outside the window. Arnav had already read the file in the office, he purposely bring it with him in car and pretended to read so that Khushi think that they were indeed going for some work ... which was not true. Arnav was stealing glances towards Khushi who was lost somewhere again.
Only once she had look at Arnav and saw him immerse in file ... she didn't even ask where they were going which so was unlike her. He remembers when they were going out for dinner ... Khushi constantly asked him where they were going and Arnav didn't tell her. Throughout the dinner Khushi was talking and sharing things, he so wanted to see that bubbly chirpy Khushi again. He was hoping that his surprise could bring smile on her face.
It was so unlike him, he has never prepare for surprises for anyone before, not even his Di. He hate surprises himself, even on his siblings birthday ... he just use to wish them that's all. He never gifted them from himself but if they ask anything he never denied that either. The last time he had prepare a surprise was for his mother 14 years ago and that not ended well.
NOOO ... His mind scream ,,, he fisted his hand not to go there ... not to remember that day which only bring immense pain and bad memories ... He won't think about it, specially not now
He looks towards Khushi ... "Today is only for her", he thought and smiles. Truth to be told he was nervous a bit ... again which is not like him ... he was never nervous before in anything be it business or personal life decision ... but today he is ... because that's the first time for him doing things like that and that for some lady ... no not some lady ... an important lady. He smiles again.
He looks ahead and saw that they are nearing the destination. He waited for the right time and then grabs Khushi's hand ... who jerk at the touch and her instant reaction was to pull back her hand but Arnav hold his grip tight and few seconds later when Khushi register it was Arnav she relaxed. She looks at him with questioning eyes but Arnav shakes his head. He purposely grabbed her hand so that she could not read the signboard of the building ... he wanted it to remain a surprise until they reach in where he wanted her to be.
"We have reached", said Arnav softly. Khushi looks outside the window ... she got curious as she could see big lawns, garden and benches. The car had stopped ... they came out ... Khushi looked at the building. It was old age, stoned and 3 story building.
Arnav came to her and take her hand again and take her inside the building. When they were in the lobby Arnav covers Khushi's eyes with his right hand from behind.
"Ar .. navji", Khushi gasped and immediately place her hand above his.
"Shhsshhh ... relax Khushi ... I am here", said Arnav as he wrapped his left hand on her stomach and make her move forward. Now Arnav was behind Khushi and she was walking ahead.
"Arnavji ... why ...", Khushi wanted to ask why he had covered her eyes but Arnav interrupted.
"Do you trust me Khushi?", asked Arnav as he make her turn to left in corridor.
"Arnavji .. I mm... I", Khushi stammer ... she was getting very nervous and somewhere scared now.
"Yes or No?", asked Arnav again. "Yy ..es", stammer Khushi.
"then don't be afraid ok", said Arnav and he could feel Khushi nodding her head.
He comes infront of one room. He read the plate on the wall beside the door. He smiles and his heart thumb a bit.
Now is the time ... hope it works, thought Arnav and pushes the door open with the hand which was on her stomach.
Khushi could hear some voice ... Arnav move her ahead keeping her eyes close. When they were in middle of the room Khushi could recognize the voices ... women and ...
Babies?, she thought.
"Surprise ...", said Arnav softly in her ear and lifted his hand from her eyes ... Khushi opens her eyes and the sight greeted her was so cheerful that it brings the smile on her face.
Arnav had come beside her so that he can see her expression and yes she was smiling. Khushi looked at Arnav asking simple question "why" with her eyes.
Arnav understood what she wanted to know so he explained, "um ... remember you once told Di that you love kids, specially babies ... and you told me that you had also worked in orphanage looking after babies ... as they make you feel at peace and good ... so I thought after yesterday you ... you may .. need this ... to ... to you know what I mean ... I" as Arnav was saying and didn't know what to say further ... Khushi engulf him in a tight hug.
She sniffs and Arnav knew that she was about to cry ... he quickly withdrew from hug and cupped her cheeks. "No ... don't ... I bring you here so that you can enjoy a bit ... I know you must be missing Arush ... but I cant bring him here ... so", said Arnav.
"thank you Arnavji", said Khushi. She wanted to say so many things to Arnav. The fact that Arnav understood what she wanted at the moment was more than enough for her. She was just so so happy realizing that Arnav had understood what she was missing and what could cheer her up.
She felt a tug on her leg ... she looked down and found a cute girl looking up at her.
"you tum(come) to play wiz(with) us?", the girl asked in her cute baby voice.
Khushi crouch down and held the girl's hand, "Yes Baby .. I am here to play with you", said Khushi with a bright smile.
"yeahhh ..." Girl jump clapping ... "tum(Come) I tho (show) you my thoyz (toys)", said the girl and drag Khushi with her to the corner where toys were place in shelves. "you kna(know) I thot(got) a new theddy yesterday ... and ..." The girl talked on as she walks with Khushi.
"Mr. Raizada", a lady in 30s came to him. "yes", said Arnav. "I am Mrs. Stewart ... I handle this section ... Mr. David told me that you would be volunteering today", said Mrs. Stewart.
"Oh yeah ... Actually not me ... she (Arnav pointed to Khushi) will be volunteering today ... as she love to spend time with kids", said Arnav with slight smile.
"oh ok ... thanks ... we always appreciate helping hands with the kids", said Mrs. Stewart and went to towards Khushi who was now sitting on floor and playing with that cute girl and a baby boy.
Arnav just stood in the corner and watch Khushi mingling with the toddlers. Yes he was successful in bringing the smile on her face as he watched Khushi laugh and smile heartily with the small kids. He don't know how many minutes he had stand there watching Khushi ... all he feel was contended.
Khushi saw Arnav standing at the corner ... she gesture him to come to her but he denied with the gesture of his hand ... Khushi pouted at him and gesture again to come to her and then made a cute pleading face ... well now how will Arnav deny now ... as now a days he just can't deny her anything. He walks over to her and crouch down ... Khushi handed him a toy and tell him to play with them. Arnav didn't know how and when ... he started playing with babies along with Khushi and the time just flew by.
One more thing added on the list ... which Arnav never did before and doing it right now ... playing with babies ... he too started to miss Arush.
They had lunch with Mrs. Stewart and other staff. She thanks them for helping them in taking care of the babies and also feeding them. When leaving, Arnav had given a good amount of donation check to Mrs. Stewart who had thanked him and Khushi whole heartily.
When they seated in the car Khushi grabs Arnav arm, "Thank you so much Arnav ji ... I had a really good time here ... all the kids are sooo cute and lovely", said Khushi as she smile wide.
That ... just for that smile Arnav did all this ... but this is not the only thing for today.
"I know ... I could see this (he pointed towards her smile) but its not done yet", said Arnav.
"Meaning?", asked Khushi. "Few more places to go", said Arnav.
"More surprises ...?", asked Khushi excitedly like a small kid. "um not surprises but somewhere I wana take you", said Arnav with a smile.
"oh ok .. where?", asked Khushi with curiosity. Arnav raises an eyebrow at that as if saying yeah-i-am-really-gona-tell-you.
"Won't say ... just wait and see", said Arnav and Khushi pouted again knowing well that Arnav won't tell her until they reach the place. But inwardly she had thrilling feeling thinking where Arnav could be taking her.
After a while when they enter from the gate, Khushi exclaimed in wonderment looking at the view in front of her.
"WOW ... Arnavji ... its beautiful ... whats this place ... a park?", said Khushi as she came down from car and look around.
"Not any park ... its Kew's Royal Botanic Gardens ... the world's famous gardens with few Glass Houses, Galleries, Restaurant and Conservatory", said Arnav as he came to Khushi and holds her hand.
"Come let me show you around", said Arnav and walk with her ahead.
"Every living plant you will find here ... every mean every kind and form of plants and flowers", said Arnav and Khushi looks at him ... his face clearly shows excitement ... Khushi knew gardening his favorite time pass thing.
After a while they came in front of a small, elegant glass house with triangular roof.
They entered and Khushi gasped at the sight in front of her. There was large pond with different varieties of water lily some of them very big in size.
"This is the Water Lily House ... see the size of the lilies ... you won't find this size anywhere else, this is called "Victoria Cruziana Water lily". It is name after the queen Victoria and it only grows in summer as these lilies are usually heat loving plants. And see these flowers (Arnav pointed towards the pink purple flower on water lily) these flower only last for 48 hours. They start out white then darken to pink and purple before sinking beneath the surface of the water." Arnav explained to Khushi about the plants as they move around the pond.
Khushi looked at him in amazement with little astonished expression. She thought that gardening was just a time pass for Arnav but hearing the information it doesn't seem so.
"Arnav ji ... you knew all this ... how?", asked Khushi and Arnav smile at her.
"When I was is Harvard ... we have to choose additional summer course apart from our main program ... and I chose Botanical Research ... for this course we have come here as this place is famous for its largest collection of plants ... I work and study here for about 4 months ... and after that my interest of gardening get stronger", said Arnav as they made a complete round of the pond.
"oh ... that's why you love gardening", said Khushi with a smile and Arnav nodded, "yeah that and also my mom loved it too ... I got the interest from her", said Arnav after a minute.
Khushi was silent for a minute ... that's the first time Arnav had talked about his mother to Khushi ... she was feeling good that he share something of his life with her. As Anjali told her long ago that Arnav didn't like to talk about his parents so they try not to mention them. But now Arnav himself had mention something about his mother and Khushi was glad about it that he can share this at least with someone ... and that someone is her.
Beside the giant water lilies, there was also a wide range of tropical ornamental aquatic plants and climbers which Khushi loved and admire. They came out of the glass house.
"um ... I am not sure if you are up for it but I wanted to show you something I like and I understand if you don't want to ... we can go .. and", as Arnav was saying Khushi interrupted him.
"Is there more? ... will you show me? ... I wana see", said Khushi holding his hand again. Arnav was surprise at first then give her his biggest smile ever.
"yeah come", said Arnav and took her to a gallery. It was a small red brick building known as "Marianne North Gallery".
They enter and Khushi looked around in wonderment ... all four walls were filled with colorful painting of different plants.
"This gallery is name after "Marianne North" ... she travelled alone to North and South America and many parts of Asia ... and during her journeys she use to paint images of different kinds of plants. This gallery has 832 of her paintings.", Arnav explained to Khushi.
"these are so lovely", said Khushi as she move from one wall to other.
Next they went to another gallery, "Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art". This gallery holds paintings from Dr. Shirley Sherwood's collection along with other artists as well. It also had a collection of dried plant leaves of different kinds.
Arnav take Khushi around the gallery explaining her little bits of illustrations.
Next Arnav take her to middle of the "Kew's Garden" which had a big glass house with a lake. The area was very serene and calm ... which also soothe you nerves and body. It's a good place to relax.
"This is the main attraction of this place known as "The Palm House and Rose Garden" ... it has the biggest collection of Roses and other flowers", said Arnav as he took Khushi inside.
Khushi mouth open at the view ... indeed what Arnav said was true ... Khushi had never seen these different types of roses and flowers. Arnav take her around and also explains about different flowers.
After that Arnav take her to "Treetop Walkway", which was 60ft high from the ground and 600 ft long. It takes the visitors into the tree canopy of a woodland glade. Arnav and Khushi went up by the lift and they begun walking along with other people.
Khushi was really excited like a kid; she would point towards different things asking Arnav about it. They came to part from where Khushi could see a white big building with triangular roof, she asked Arnav about it.
"It The Temperate House ... it contains plants and flower from all the temperate regions of the world. It has different sections for heat loving plants and winter plants.", explained Arnav.
When they came down from the treetop walkway it was already evening so Arnav took Khushi to a restaurant called "Orangery" which was also inside the confines of The Royal Gardens.
Arnav made Khushi sit and went to place the order ... he came back and after few minutes and sit opposite to Khushi.
"So you like it?", asked Arnav.
"I don't have words to say Arnavji ... everything here is so beautiful and I am astonished at the collection of plants and flowers here ... I mean how they do it .. its amazing", said Khushi genially praising about the place and Arnav was happy knowing that.
This is something a part of his life which he had never shown to anyone before, never share with anyone ... not even his family. He had thought much about where he should take Khushi apart from orphanage as he wanted to spend time with her... he knew she won't be comfortable for flashy dinner, movie and shopping ... same old things ... he wanted her to take some place where she could get relax and at the same time feel new and excited. He somewhere doubted that Khushi would feel bore but he was wrong ... she was excited as he had hoped. And that made him contended that he had succeed what he wanted to do.
On the other hand Khushi was very much relaxed ... she was very glad that Arnav had shared all these things with her ... she could see the excitement of sharing something which others don't know ... the knowledge he has about plants. It shows Khushi the whole new side of Arnav ... where he was not that ruthless, short tempered business man but a simple human being who enjoys nature at its fullest.
When the waiter came with their order Khushi was surprise to see a bowl of ice-cream for her.
She looked Arnav and he said while smiling, "You love ice-cream right ... Your favorite ... strawberry with pineapple."
And Khushi was astonished for a second that Arnav remembers the flavor she had that night at the hotel. She happily eat her ice-cream while Arnav had his coffee.
On way back to the hotel ... Khushi was thinking about her day with Arnav. When she came to London she had thought of spending time with him, going on dinner or shopping may be. But this is much more than that. First Arnav take her to orphanage bringing her out of her trauma, she was so happy knowing that Arnav understood what she needed at the time. Then there trip to the Royal Gardens was just fantastic ... she really enjoyed a lot, especially Arnav's company. Not once Arnav had talk about the incident ... not once he had tried to be intimate with her ... he had given her space and she was thankful to him. This shows her that it's not only the physical attraction between them ... it is much more than that ... they understand and feel each other which is a very big step in a relationship.
------------------------- Back @ Hotel
When Khushi came out of the washroom she saw her mobile ringing. She picks her mobile and saw it was NK calling ... she picked the call.
"Hello Kuku ... you were ill and you didn't tell me ... how are you now? When will you be coming back", NK asked his questions as soon as he heard the call being picked. As when Khushi didnt came back to India Nk had called Aman asking about her and got to know that she was ill.
"hey NK ... relax yaar ...I was just ... um (thought Khushi ... she didn't wana tell anyone about what happened with her) I had an upset stomach ... I am fine now", said Khushi.
"Gosh yaar ... how many times do I have to tell not to eat junk food. What did you eat this time ... tell me?", asked NK with slight anger at her friend for not taking care of herself.
"um ... I don't remember yaar ... but whats the point asking .. I am fine", said Khushi as she didn't want NK to get suspicious that something else had happened.
"you sure?", asked NK as he thought something.
"haan na yaar. How many times I have to tell you ... ok listen I have to go ... will talk when I will be back and that's tomorrow ok?", said Khushi as she didn't wana extend the talk because she knew she wont be able to handle her self for long and she don't wana break down in front on NK.
"huh .. ok .. take care Kuku ...baye love you", said NK his usual thing.
"yeah baye", said Khushi and cut the call. She was glad that NK didnt insist much.
But NK was surprise ... usually when Khushi has upset stomach she would whine about the food and curse the maker who is reason for the bad food ... and she didn't even say her usual goodbye thing which they use to say every time.
NK knew that something is wrong ... may be ... may be not ... but he got the feeling that Khushi was hiding something ... he will ask her once she will back.
On the other hand Khushi was feeling sad that's it's the first time in their friendship that Khushi had lied and hide something from NK ... but she knew if she told him he would have become hysterical and who knows he might flew over here to London.
She will tell him once she is back ... or she really wana tell someone else about this or not? .. she thought.
------------------------------------------------
Lavanya came back from the shopping; she didn't have anything else to do. She knew Arnav had taken Khushi out somewhere. She was happy that they both are spending time ... Khushi needed this to distract her mind. Lavanya was about to put key in the lock when she found it open. Getting surprise she opens the door and went it and saw Khushi who was folding her clothes.
"Khushi .. you here?", asked Lavanya as she dumped the shopping bags on her bed.
"Hey Lavanya ji ... how was your shopping?", asked Khushi as she saw 4, 5 shopping bags.
"So so ... missing Aman ... its so much fun shopping with him as I irritate the hell out of him", said Lavanya giggling. Khushi smiled too.
Lavanya saw that and feel happy that she was smiling ... that means Arnav was successful in bring her smile back.
"But what are you doing here ... I thought you would be with ASR", asked Lavanya as she removed her sandals and get on bed.
"wo ..um ... we came back an hour back so .. um so ... I came here ... Arnavji has work to do", said Khushi hiding her shyness and nervousness.
Lavanya who saw that smiled and said, "Ahan ... so ASR is busy ... but there is no office work left ... so in what he is busy?" with a teasing tone.
"um .. I don't know", said Khushi and place her clothes back in the suitcase.
"well I don't think so he is busy ... so if you wana spend time with him you can go (Lavanya took her night clothes from suitcase) ... who knows when will you two get time once we go back to India ... ASR will get hall busy then", said Lavanya and went to the washroom. She smiles and peek through the door and watch Khushi. She so wish to tease her but didn't wana make her uncomfortable, and she also knew Khushi won't go to ASR as they both are pretending not to be together.
Stupid both are ... don't know these things don't hid for long, thought Lavanya and giggles. She saw Khushi thinking something and then after few second she saw her coming towards the washroom. Lavanya closed the door and waited.
Khushi knocked on the door, "Lavanya ji ... I will ask Arnavji if he need any help with the work ... so...", as Khushi was saying when Lavanya opens the door and give a big smile to her.
"Ahan ... help haan ... well ASR never needed someone's help before and that too in his work", said Lavanya in a teasing tone and Khushi looked down a slight blush appear on her face at getting caught.
"Well you can go and help him with dinner ... you know Anji message me asking that I should remind ASR about his medicine ... like seriously he is not a kid", said Lavanya and Khushi smile at her for understanding her feelings that she wanted to spend time with Arnav.
Khushi went to the door but then return and about to say something when Lavanya said, "Don't worry I will lock the door ... you spend as much time as you with ASR" and give a wink to Khushi ... who quickly turn being shy and then move out of room.
------------------------------------------------
Arnav opens the door, as he heard the bell and was astonished to see Khushi standing there. Just a minute ago he was thinking to call her to ask if she is ok and here she is infront of him.
"Khushi ... you ok?", he asked looking at her . Khushi nods her head and said, "Do you need any help in work?, asked Khushi.
Work?, thought Arnav getting confuse ... "Um no ... I am done all", said Arnav and Khushi got sad thinking now how will she spend time with him, how will she say it.
"ok then .. baye", said Khushi and turn to go ... looking at her sad face Arnav realize why she is here.
"Khushi ... (Arnav grabs her hand moving towards her and she turn to him) I just remember there is a presentation I have to make ... will you help?", said Arnav and Khushi instantly smile and nods her head.
They both come in the living room where Arnav laptop was placed. He had sent some emails.
"What is the presentation about? Can you give me some details", asked Khushi as she sit on the sofa infront of his laptop.
Arnav started to think ... there was this small project he had to do next month ... he was doing some research for it ... when he came back in evening as he wanted for the time to pass as he was really missing her but thought to give her some space.
He then tells her about the project and shows her his research. Khushi got excited ... it was the first time she will be working with Arnav personally on some project. Soon the discussion begins and Khushi started to draft the presentation along it. While doing work Khushi didnt forget to steal glances of him ... he looks so dominating when he is in his usual working avatar.
When finally the presentation was made it had already been 2 hours. Arnav looked the time ... it was 8.30pm ... he thought to order some dinner for them. While waiting for the dinner Arnav switched on the TV and Khushi too started to watch with him. Soon the dinner came and they had it while watching some movie. The male and female lead were fighting on some issue and then when they stopped they started to tear each other clothes ... while kissing ... Khushi choked on water and look down ... her cheeks getting red ... Arnav switch the channel as both male and female lead had become nude and were on bed ... Well no need to tell what they were doing.
"you ok?", asked Arnav ... and Khushi nodded still looking down ... her mind went to her dream and she felt the same sensation to rise inside her. She looked sideways to Arnav, who was eating ... she smiles and got lost in him. After a minute when Arnav look back at her she avert her eyes. Arnav smile but didn't say anything. Soon the dinner was over and they started to watch another movie.
Arnav was sitting with his back to sofa and one arm spread on Sofa back. Khushi had her legs up on sofa and have seated some distance away. She looked at Arnav and then moves a little towards him ... then after a minute or two she moves further ahead ... Arnav watch her from the corner of his eyes and smirk inwardly. He knew she wanted to come to him ... but he wont do anything ... he wanted to see what she will do.. then after few minutes Khushi move more closer to him ... now that only one feet distance is left.
Khushi was fidgeting with her fingers ... she wanted to site close with him while hugging ... she wanted to feel his warmth ... but she was shy to do it and also nervous. Arnav look at her and clearly understand that she is nervous as she was looking down. Arnav smiles and then move towards her now that their body's touches each other ... Khushi jerk a little but then got relax ... she blushes and smile and look at Arnav whose eyes were still on TV. He didn't want to make her more nervous. Slowly Khushi relax back against the sofa while keeping her head on his shoulder and watch the movie.
Arnav try to fix his eyes on TV ... but when after few minutes he couldn't resist he looks at her and found her sleeping ... He chuckled and then turn the TV off. He picks her gently and then take her to bedroom. He places her on bed and when getting back he felt a pull on his collar ... he looked down and found that Khushi was holding his shirt ... he gently take her hand off and cover her with quilt. When he turn to go he again felt a pull on his hand ... he turn back and saw Khushi holding his hand and looking at him with sleepy eyes.
"Don't go please ... stay", said Khushi in sleepy tone. "I am here sweetheart ... not going anywhere ... you sleep ok", said Arnav and kiss her forehead.
Khushi smiles and said, "Thank you for today ... I loved everything Arnavji".
"Me too ...", said Arnav and close her eyes. Then he moves towards the sofa and lay down facing towards her. Khushi too turn to his side ... she watch him for few seconds then sleep. Arnav too slept after few minutes while watching her.
----------------------------------------------
Khushi opens her eyes and the first thing she saw was Arnav sleeping on the sofa ... with his one leg and one arm dangling down and his head tilted to one side. The posture itself looks uncomfortable. Khushi felt bad that he had to sleep that way. She came to him and crouch down on sofa. She looks at his face lovingly ... a strand of hair was on his forehead which she gently move away. Arnav stir at the touch ... Khushi roams her fingers in his hair admiring his features. After few seconds Arnav felt something soft running in his hair ... he opened his eyes and saw Khushi's face up close. Khushi move back as she saw him awake.
"um ... Arnavji ... we have to go to Ariport", said Khushi as she stood up.
"yeah ...", said Arnav and stood up ... again he felt a little muscle pull in his back ... he stretches his arms to relax his muscles ... Khushi saw him doing it and gulped a little seeing his biceps stretched. She move backwards.
"You ok?", asked Arnav as she saw him moving back.
"yeah ... need to fresh up ... I should go", said Khushi and Arnav nodded. Khushi left the room and went towards her to pack her bags.
----------------- Next Morning - During the flight back to India.
Arnav was thinking how to call Khushi here ... he remembered how he was missing her presence when they were flying to London ... and now flying back to India he was missing her presence again. But this time there are no other employees so he can call her here. But then there is lavanya ... but he have some intuition that Lavanya knows but them already... so it wont be a problem ... he smiles as he thought.
So he send a message to her ... And waited for her to come.
Khushi was sitting beside Lavanya on the window seat ... she was looking at the clouds ... her mind was playing all things that had happen in her London trip ... the good and bad. She felt her cell vibrate ... she check and read Arnav's message.
Can you come here ... need some help with work
She smiles ... as she remember how she went to her on pretence of work as she wanted to spend time with her and now Arnav was doing the same.
"um Lavanya ji .. wo um .. Arnavji want some help with work ... I will back" said Khushi as she stood up.
"Again work ... I wonder what kind of work ASR is doing which I don't know" ,said Lavanya pretending to think and look at Khushi.
Khushi didn't know what to say more so she move out of the seat panel.
"Lavanya ji .. I ...", Khushi was saying when Lavanya interrupted
"its ok Khushi ... well take AS MUCH TIME AS YOU WANT to help him ok ...", said Lavanya as she emphasizes on some words.
Khushi blush and move towards the business class.
"both are stupid ... making stupid excuses to spend time ... think that others don't understand", giggle lavanya ... "oh well love make you do stupid things", she said again as she thought about Aman and her. Lavnaya look at the empty seat beside her and sighed... "Amaaan ... miss you baby", lavanya pouted.
Arnav look at his left when he felt her presence ... Khushi smiles at him and sit beside him.
"So what you need help with?", asked Khushi.
"nothing ...", said Arnav and look at her intently. Khushi got shy seeing his gaze that she clearly knew what he meant.
Arnav holds her hand and Khushi's heart thumbed at the touch.
"you alright?", asked Arnav. And Khushi nodded.
"Khushi .. um .. what happened that day ... (Khushi's body got stiff at the mention of that event) ... I am sorry and ...", as Arnav was saying but Khushi stopped him by placing her finger on his lips.
"No Arnavji ... why are you saying sorry?", said Khushi.
"Cause if I didn't have let you go alone that wouldn't have happened ... and I didn't came earlier", said Arnav with little anger ... on himself.
"But you came ... and that's what means to me ... you save me ... you came for me", said Khushi and she places her head on his shoulder.
"I will always come Khushi", said Arnav. "I know ...", said Khushi slowly and entwined her arm with his.
"Arnavji ..." Khushi called him after few seconds. "Hmm ...", said Arnav.
"Now that you're dream is coming true ... working with VF .. AR going international", said Khushi.
"yeah ..", said Arnav.
"So what after that?", asked Khushi and look at him. "Meaning?", said Arnav looking at her.
"Any new dream?", asked Khushi. Arnav looked at her thinking for a while. "Not now I guess ... haven't thought any yet", said Arnav after few minutes.
"Ahaann ...", said Khushi. "What about you?", asked Arnav.
"Well I dreamed of going abroad ... want to travel different places ... and its kinda come true ... so not anything new now", said Khushi with a smile which Arnav returned.
Khushi again places her head on his shoulder ... they both didn't talk much but basked in each other's warmth and presence which meant more to them then talking.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
NOTE: Info and pics related to "royal gardens" are taken from Google. i dont know about the sequence of the places inside the royal gardens .. so i just only shows which are the main attractions of that place.
well those who live in London or have been there will know much about it.
As Khushi have one thing (kids) to bring her peace ... then Arnav should also have something unique for himself as well ... thats why i show his love for nature.
eagerly waiting for your comments and likes ... 😊
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