Chapter 58

Aman had talk to employee not to assume anything about the article as it is fake and ASR will clear the matter once he gets back ... he also advise them not to say anything about this article which will reach ASR ear's and might create problem for that person. But still some people didn't stop their gossips. Aman knew its no use as some people just don't listen.

Saurav have called Aman and told him that, it was a woman who called India Times giving them news and then email the picture and also some description what to wrote ... that's all they could find out from inside source. Aman was astonish to know that ... a woman? Why a woman do something like this ... is she some previous girlfriend of ASR looking for revenge, he thought. But this little piece of info help them and Aman asked Saurav to look in the video Photage if any woman is taking ASR's and Khushi photo that time in the hall.

------------------ 2 hours later - Around 12 pm NOON

Arnav and Khushi was sitting on the back seat of the car, they just entered the city limits and now on way to Rahul's apartment, both were engross in thoughts. Khushi was thinking about the happenings of the last few days ... how close they have come and she somewhere felt light confessing her love to Arnav. And the way he reacted to her confession, his wild kiss was proof that he loves her too ... like any other girl she wanted to hear the same words in reply but she knew that its not easy for Arnav to verbalize his feelings ... he is more a man of actions ... he will take time and she is willing to give him that but she prayed for it be soon.

Arnav was thinking how controlled his life and emotions were until Khushi came in his life. When he started AR Design his sole focus was on making it No.1 achieving the heights of heights and build a fortune for his Di and family. Like every man needs, he too look for female company, he dated many models, high class girls but none could take his attention more than week or month ... he realized sooner that all those girls are with him for materialistic reason or to gain fame. This made his beliefs on love, care, emotions more sore. But still somewhere deep inside his heart he longed to be cared, to be loved and wanted to be the sole focus of attention of someone ... But that someone never came ... until now..

Arnav looked at Khushi who was looking outside the window, one hand on her lap and other on the window sill playing with her locket. Seeing the locket some questions came back to his mind so he grab her hand which was on her lap ... Khushi looked at him questioningly.

"Can I ask you something?", said Arnav in a soft tone ... Khushi got surprise ... when he needed permission to ask anything, she thought but didn't say anything and just nod her head.

"Is it yours or someone give it to you (Arnav pointed towards the locket) ... because I clearly remember that you weren't wearing it during London trip?", asked Arnav but his heart started to beat fast.

"oh that ...", Khushi smile looking down at the locket. "well its kinda sad ... its not mine enitirely ... someone gave it to me when I was 8 years old", said Khushi rubbing a finger on the locket and look at Arnav ... he could clearly see her eyes getting moist ... he try hard not to show any emotion on his face ... he wanted to know if she remember something of that day or not.

Khushi squeeze his hand as if gaining strength from him ... never before she tell anyone about this but today her heart wanted to share this ... and who will be better than Arnav.

"A boy gave it to me on the day of my parents accident ... I was sitting on the bench all lost and alone ... and I was very scared ... no one came to me to talk or ask how I am doing ... but then a boy came to me and I some how felt safe with him ... I don't remember what he said exactly but seeing me cry he gave this locket (Khushi gesture the locket to Arnav) to me and said that it will protect me where ever I go and my fears will go away", said Khushi as few tears role down cheeks.

"Khushi ... I didn't mean to ...", Arnav want to apologize but Khushi cut him, "no don't be ... I will always be thankful to him ... because this did give me some sense of protection ... I always felt that someone is there watching over me ... and to think of it ... I know why that thing happen to me in London ... I didn't have this with me then because I have given it to Arush before going to London because he fell sick I wanted this to protect him ... but when I came back I just couldn't stay apart from this and take it back ... I feel somewhere selfish", said Khushi frowning a little.

Arnav shakes his head in NO, "you're not selfish ... it was yours anyway and I can see you're emotionally attached to it".

"yes that I am", said Khushi smiling and wiping her tears.

"So ... um .. Khushi ... that boy ... you know who was he", asked Arnav after few seconds.

"Nope", said Khushi with a sad pout ... "I was 8 then ... I only remember bits and pieces of that day ... but the little time I was in that city I didn't see that boy after that day".

Arnav nodded and turn his head towards the window remembering that how next day he was thrown out of his own home along with his Di. Khushi looked at him and found lost in thoughts ... she look down ... he was still holding her hand.

After some time when Arnav still didn't say anything Khushi squeeze his hand and Arnav look at her. "Is there a problem Arnavji?", asked Khushi thinking that something must be bothering him. At first Arnav thought to deny but looking the concern on his eyes he said, "Yes ... but Aman didn't tell me the details but the way he was talking I am sure its not a small issue", said Arnav.

"oh ... can I help?", said Khushi and smile at her. Always ready to help others, he thought.

Squeezing her hand he said, "I will surely ask if I needed" and then turning to window he leans back and close his eyes ... still holding her hand. Khushi didn't say further ... she knows he must be thinking and with his eyes close she didn't want to disturb him either.

-------------------- At the Same Time

"Akash what did Aman said", asked Anjali as she come near to Akash who was standing in the hall way talking to Aman.

"Bhai and Khushi are on their way over here ... they will reach in an hour or so", said Akash who had just cut his call with Aman.

"Good ... I hope everything will be alright ... but I am scared", said Anjali looking towards Khushi's parents and Buaji who were sitting in the living room with Nani, Mami and Mama.

"yeah I hope so too ... I just cant understand who did this and why?", said Akash worriedly ... his mind was on Payal.

When he called Payal for asking her Buaj's address, she told him that she is on her way to airport. She was worried for her parents too. Later she got her message that she got the ticket for 11.30pm flight and will be here around 2pm.

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After an hour Arnav and Khushi reached Rahul's apartment. Seeing the apartment building Khushi got confuse and turn to Arnav, "Arnavji ... what are we doing here? Aren't we going to office?",asked Khushi getting confuse.

"Aman asked me to come here straight ... I too want to know why", saying that Arnav went out of the car and Khushi followed.

When Rahul opens the door Arnav was surprise to find him there ... he was expecting his Di ... why didn't he go to hospital, thought Arnav.

"Rahul bhai", exclaimed Khushi and give a side hug to Rahul, who in return patted her head lovingly and welcome them in.

Arnav straight come to the point, "Jiju ... whats going on ... why Aman asked me to come here".

In reply Rahul just hand him the newspaper ... Arnav look at Rahul with confusion but then the next seconds his eyes pop out seeing his and Khushi's enlarge picture with the heading, Khushi too come beside to Arnav and got shocked seeing their picture in newspaper.

Arnav Singh Raizada's Lady Love found

there was a close up picture of Arnav holding unconcious Khushi in his arms

Most Charming Young Business Tycoon Arnav Singh Raizada who had been out of the charts for couple of months is secretly engaged with the stunning young lady Khushi Gupta who works at AR as a fashion designer. Many had questioned about Mr. Raizada's disappearance from the media with his usual flings and now that questioned had been answer in form of Ms. Khushi. Inside Source had said that they are pretty close and always found together in their free time at office. Our source also tells that both had been quite close in their London trip ... and also stayed back a day which was not scheduled. Which is because his lady love had fallen ill and like a charming lover Mr. Raizada had stayed back to take care of his lady love which we have never seen him doing before for his previous girlfriends.

One can clearly see the picture how Mr. Raizada is holding her lady love. Our Source said that she got stuck in the store room and Mr. Raizada like a hero save his lady love and bought her to his cabin.

The gesture itself told that Ms. Khushi is very important to Mr. Raizada. But the main question is that how Ms. Khushi Gupta is able to impress Mr. Raizada which is quite impossible. She is not rich, not classy just a middle class girl but we can't deny that she has charms. So is this true love? ... or another girl looking for opportunity to be Mr. Raziada using her beautiful charms like many others out there ... why not ... Mr. Raizada's charm is hard to resist. We will soon find out more within next month if we hear wedding bells ... or will it finish just like another previous flings?

"What the hell is this?", said Arnav gritting his teeth in anger turning towards Rahul.

"That's what we all are trying to figure out Arnav", said Rahul

"Ar .. navji ... this ... why?", said Khushi as tear form in her eyes ... she couldn't not believe that someone could wrote these thing about her.

"Khushi ... everything will be fine ... I will make everything fine", said Arnav grabbing her hands but tears started to flow from her eyes more freely.

Before Arnav could say anything more Rahul's cell ring ... looking at the id Rahul extends his cell towards Arnav.

"Its Aman ..", said Rahul ... Arnav quickly takes the phone picking up the call.

"What the hell is all this Aman? Dammit why didn't you tell me before about this?", shouted Arnav in anger.

"Because you couldn't have done anything while staying at the farm house ... as soon as we saw the news everyone has been trying to call you and Khushi but both of your phones had been going non - responding ... plus media started to gather at AR and Shantivan thats why i asked you to come to Rahuls apartment. We started to get phone calls from various channels and people regarding the article ... so I thought it's better to tell you once you get back.", said Aman hurriedly before Arnav could say anything else.

Arnav close his eyes trying to control his raging anger and then asked, "Aman who did this?".

"that me and Saurav are trying to find out from past couple of hours, Saurav got to know from the inside source at India Times that it was a woman who called them with this news and also she emailed the picture to them. We looked at the security camera footage of the hall but couldn't get who took the picture as at that time people were standing close to each other. Only option we left is to find out the email address from the person who wrote this article. That we sure that its someone from AR", said Aman quickly about what he had find out so far. "just an hour ago I address to Media that you will be coming to AR to give a statement" added Aman.

"What the hell ... I am not doing such things ... those bas***ds don't know anything expect to disrespect others", said Arnav with anger.

"ASR I did this to divert the media which was at Shantivan. At least with my statement they are here now. I check with Amit ... no reporter is around Shantivan now", said Aman.

"Aman ... I want to go India Times ... if its about me only I would have neglect it but its about Khushi's respect and I wont tolerate if anything happen to her and her image. Find out everything about India Times, especially their share holders ... you know the drill Aman ... do it asap", said Arnav ... his anger was not cooling down.

"I am on it ASR", said Aman "you should go home".

"No .. I am coming office ... I need to deal with this mess ... I swear I am not going to spare that person", said Arnav.

"Khushi's parents are at your home ASR", said Aman. "What??", asked Arnav in confusion.

"Khushi's parents are here in Dehli and they got to know about the article as well. Akash took them to Shantivan as we got worried if Media get to their house ... it was our luck that they didn't get to know about Khushi address", said Aman.

"Dammit ... shit", said Arnav worried for Khushi now.

"I will get the info till then you handle situation at home", said Aman. Agreeing with Aman, Arnav cut the call and then turn to see Rahul and Khushi sitting on the sofa.

Rahul took Khushi to the sofa when Arnav move aside to talk to Aman.

"Khushi stop crying please ... you have to be strong ... its just utter rubbish ... these people don't have anything else do to ... I know its difficult to neglect this but trust me it will just fade away in matter of days", said Rahul trying to console Khushi.

But Khushi's mind was on something else ... she was hurt with the words written about her that she is using her charms to trap Arnav ... how can they demean her love like this ... and then who could do this and why? What they get ... and then she thought about her parents ... what will they think? They must be so worried about her.

"Amma baba ...", murmurs Khushi. "What Khushi?", asked Rahul as he didn't understand what she said.

Khushi turn to Rahul grabbing his arms, "Bhai Amma baba are here in Dehli .. what if they see this ... what they must be thinking about me ... they must be very angry and worried ... I have to go to them ... I have to explain them", said Khushi and she stood up.

"Relax Khushi ... your parents are at Shantivan", said Rahul and Khushi eyes widened.

"What? How .. why?", said Khushi not understanding.

"Akash brought them to Shantivan ... we feared that Media would reach your home and we don't want them to create any scene at your place ... people would get wrong idea about this so we thought it's better that they come with us", said Rahul and Khushi nods her head.

Just then Arnav finished his call and came to them, "Khushi", Arnav called her name softly and Khushi looked at him. He felt bad seeing her tears. Grabbing her hands he said, "Don't worry Khushi ... I will make everything alright ... Come on we have to go home", said Arnav and Khushi just nod her head ... only thought in her mind was what would her parents think or say about her and Arnav.

--------------------- Around 1 pm NOON - at Shantivan

Arnav was holding Khushi's hand when they enter the house. Both of them move towards the living room.

"Chottey", said Nani and stand up as she saw him coming from the hallway.

Anjali, Akash, Mami, Mama, Khushi's parents and Buaji all stood up watching them. Garima was the one who reacted and first and came to Khushi.

"Khushi kahan thi tuh haan?", said Garima in anger. Khushi got mute hearing the tone ... which clearly tell that how much her mother is angry.

" Jawab de", said Garima shaking her arm.

"Amma wo hum .. wo ...", Khushi was scared to tell he mother that she was with Arnav.

"You were with him? Right? You lied to us that you are going to your friend's house? And what all this in the newspaper? Tell me?", yelled Garima shaking Khushi's arm.

On constant insisting of Garima to call Khushi or call her friend to know where she is Akash had to tell her that Khushi is with Arnav and they are coming here ... although Akash didn't tell that she was with him since last night.

"Aunty please ... you", Arnav want to say but Garima held her hand up asking him to stop.

"I am talking to my daughter", said Garima in anger tone not looking at Arnav as her gaze was fixed on.

"Are you going to tell me or ...", said Garima and raise her hand to slap her but at that instant Arnav came infront of Khushi shielding her. Everyone gasp thinking that she will slap Khushi.

"Garima ...", said Shashi in a tone telling her not to do such thing and take few steps to Khushi and Garima.

"Aunty please ... wecacn talk with ease", said Arnav and felt Khushi gripping his hand more tight.

"Amma Baba ...", said Khushi stepping ahead from behind Arnav ... few tears flow down on her cheeks.

"I didn't do anything wrong. I am sorry I lied but (looking at her father) I didn't do anything wrong", said Khushi her voice shaking. Shashi nods his head indicating that he knows but Garima was not satisfy.

"And what was that which is in newspaper?", asked Garima still angry.

"that's not true aunty ... someone has done this just to jeopardize her and my name", Arnav quickly explain to Garima.

"Not true? So there is nothing between you two?", said Garima looking at Khushi who bow her head down.

"I am asking you something ... and don't you dare lie to me Khushi", said Garima shaking her arm. Khushi looked at her mother guilty and lower her eyes. The in look Khushi's eyes told Garima that there is something between them. This made her more angry that her daughter hidden such a big thing from her parents. But before she could ask Khushi something else they all heard a small soft voice.

"Maammaa"... Everybody turn in direction of voice. All this while no one notice when Shobah come down the stairs holding Arush as he was going cranky for the last 15 minutes ... its like the little baby sense his Mama's presence ... that's why he was saying Mama ... Mama and Shobah had to bring him down to take him to Anjali so that she could calm him down. She was standing at the foot of stairs.

"Arush ...", said Khushi and take a step but Garima held her.

"Mammaa Mammaaa ...", exclaimed Arush loudly as he finally saw his mama and started to wiggle in Shobah's arm to go to his Mama.

"Khushi I asked you something", said Garima again ... she didn't notice that Arush was calling Khushi Mama' ...

"Amma ... ek minute ... wo Arush", said Khushi pointing to Arush.

"Maaamaaa", scream Arush as he started to cry and wiggle himself more forcibly in Shobah's arm. Shobah got scared that he might fall down so she quickly place him down on floor and Arush started to walk towards Khushi. Seeing that Khushi too moves ahead but Garima held her.

"Is he calling you?", asked Garima not believing.

"Amma please ...", said Khushi as she tried to remove Garima's hand from her arm to go to Arush.

"Kya hai yeh sub", yelled Garima not understanding why that little boy was calling Khushi his Mama.

Before Khushi could say ... Arush who wanted to go to Khushi tripped on his foot and fell down.

"Maaammma ..." ... screamed Arush again now crying.

"Aruuushhh" ... Khushi and Arnav both shouted seeing him fall down ... both move but Khushi was the fastest. She jerk Garima's hand away and run to Arush, kneeling down on floor and pick Arush .. hugging him tight.

"Shhshhh ,,, Baby Mama is here", Said Khushi running her hand on Arush's head ... she too started to cry seeing Arush cry.

Anjali, Akash, Nani, Mama and Mamiji got emotional seeing the scene. Arnav was feeling overwhelmed at his son's love for Khushi. All were standing but he only wanted his Mama.

Garima and Shashi was shocked. Buaji knew somewhere the bond Khushi and Arush share as she seen her self ... but Arush calling Khushi Mama made her surprised too.

"Mamma ...", Arush was crying and it hurt Khushi more.

"Shhshh babay ... see Mama is here ... don't cry ... please baby", said Khushi as she broke the hug. She sit on the ground with Arush on her lap and make him stop crying. Arush stop crying ... feeling happy to be in his Mama's arms. Khushi quickly look at his small legs, as he was wearing shorts, to see if he got any scratch or not .. he didn't.

"Mammaa ... mish uuu Mama ... lub uuu mama", said Arush patting her cheeks and Khushi give him a big smile ... kissed his cheek.

"And Mama love you loads", said Khushi and Arush put his head on Khushi's chest grabbing her shirt in his tiny hands.

Anjali move towards Khushi so that she could take Arush. Khushi looked up seeing Anjali who kneel down and take Arush's hand.

"Baby .. come here", said Anjali in baby voice. "Naaahhh", said Arush.

"Baby come here ... I made yum yum food for you .. come", said Anjali taking his hand off Khushi's shirt but Arush turn his head away, "Naaa naaa".

"Arush .. baby .. zid nahi kertey ... come here", said Anjali a bit sternly this time and try to take Arush with force.

"Mamaa...", screamed Arush and Khushi quickly held Anjali's hand to stop her and shake her head.

"Mama k pas ... Mama k pas ... na jana ...", said Arush and again started to cry thinking that Anjali will take him away from Khushi.

"Shhss no baby ... Mama kahin na ja rahi ... Rotey nahi... mera pala baby hai na", said Khushi kissing Arush's cheeks again.

"Mamaaa k pas", said Arush again as he put his head again on Khush's chest and Khushi hug him.

Shashi, Garima and Buaji all three were astonish at the scene in front of their eyes.

"Khushi ... Whats all this?", said Garima looking stunned at the scene.

Hearing her mother Khushi quickly stood up and turn. She look pleadingly at her Amma and then Baba.

"Baba ... please ...", said Khushi in choked voice as tears flow from her eyes. Understanding her plea Shashi move to Khushi and pat her head.

"Khushi ..." Garima started to say but stopped by Shashi.

"Bus Garima ji ...", said Shashi looking at her. "we will talk about this later." Then look at Khushi.

"Bitya you go ... take care of him ..", said Shashi gesturing toward Arush who was glued to Khushi's chest. Khushi look at her mother worriedly ... "Go Khushi bitya", said Shashi again and Khushi nods her head and move towards the stairs follow by Anjali.

Shashi comes near to Garima but before he could say anything. Arnav speak up, "Uncle ... what Khushi said is true ... we" as he was saying but Shashi stopped him .

"I trust my daughter.", said Shashi ... "But I would like to speak with you alone". Arnav nodded his head.

"Garima ... take rest for a while ... let me handle things", said Shashi and Garima nodded her head.

Shashi turns to Arnav ... understanding the look Arnav gesture to the side with his hand and move ahead towards the study room.

"I think we all should rest now", said Nani looking at everyone. "Manorma ...".

"Ge sasuma", said Mamiji looking at Nani.

"Show them the guest room", said Nani and then turns to Garima and Buaji , "please you go, get fresh and take some rest ... you have been worried since the time you came here".

Mamiji then take Garima and Buaji up the stairs. Nani move towards the kitchen on order to prepare for lunch. Akash and Mamaji too went to their rooms.

Once in the room Arnav turn to Shashi, "Uncle what Khushi said is right ... there is nothing wrong between us", said Arnav.

"I know that ... when I said I trust my daughter then I meant it ... I may not be educated enough but I know how the media and their agenda works ... So I am here to ask you what you going to do about it?", said Shashi.

"I assure you Uncle I will handle everything ... I don't know why they print this but I am will get to the bottom of this ... I wont make them harm Khushi or her image ... her respect means a lot to me", said Arnav determine.

"Do you love her?", asked Shashi ... the important thing he wanted to ask since long. Arnav was stunned at the question and look shock at Shashi ... who was rather looking calm to Arnav's surprise. When Arnav didn't answer Shashi asked the question again.

"Do you love my daughter?", asked Shashi ... but this time Arnav answer without any hesitation.

"Yes ... ", said Arnav then after a pause completed the sentence, "she is most important to me."

Arnav didn't know how to explain him how much he loves Khushi and what she meant to him ... but he hoped that he understands.

"Did you tell her that?", asked Shashi and Arnav got nervous a bit at the question.

"I .. I was .. going to tell her but circumstances didn't allow me to ... I ... I will surely tell her", said Arnav getting nervous at the way Shashi was looking at him.

"Good ... thats all I wanted to know", said Shashi and turn to go.

"Are you sure you don't want to ask anything else?", said Arnav not sure about that way Shashi accepted things.

"No ... but yes I want to say one thing", said Shashi looking at Arnav ... "Don't you dare hurt my daughter ... I wont tolerate it", said Shashi sternly and left the room.

Arnav gulped and sighed ... he never felt nervous in front of someone before ... but he was not someone ... he is a father of the girl he loves a lot.

After few seconds his cell ring ... it was Aman.

"Aman ...", said Arnav picking the call ...

"ASR ... I got all the info ... I am on way to you ... will explain things when we head to India Times", said Aman.

"Good ... I will get ready", said Arnav and head to his room.

After 20 minutes when Arnav come down he saw Akash, Mamaji, Mamaiji, Nani and Khushi's buaji at the dinning table. Seeing him all ready in 3 piece charcoal suit with dark purple shirt ... Akash came ahead.

"Bhai you going office?", asked Akash.

"yes Akash ... I have to handle things", said Arnav heading to the front door.

"Wait bhai ... I will come with you ...", said Akash coming behind Arnav.

"No Akash", said Arnav turning back. "You better stay here ... in case something happens ... I will call you ok", said Arnav and Akash agreed ... then Arnav leave as Aman was waiting outside.

------------------- After 40 mins.

Arnav barge into the India Times office ... Aman following behind and gaurds at sides.

"Sir ... you cant go in like this ...", said one security man trying to stop Arnav.

"Sir ... please wait ...", said another security man but Arnav didn't listen.

Arnav's guards move the security men aside giving Arnav the way ... he move in straight ... when he reach the hall every employee stood up seeing Arnav Singh Raizada in their office.

"Aman ...", said Arnav .. his anger was already building.

"this way ...", said Aman pointing towards the left to the director's office and Arnav move ahead.

Arnav open the cabin open with force and went in ... the director got shocked seeing Arnav there.

"HOW DARE YOU PRINT THIS WITHOUT MY CONSENT?", roared Arnav throwing the newspaper which was in his hand on the table.

The director literally shook with his roaring voice. He didn't even imagine in his dream that the man who had been staying away from media from years ... rarely giving to the point official statement would come straight to his office.

"Mr. Rai ... za.. da", stammer director.

"Did you not know I already have court orders for the media to stay away from my personal life ... do you know what could I do you?", said Arnav with gritted teeth.

"Mr. Raizada you cannot threaten me ... this is a free field ... we have freedom of speech ... we can ..." director tried his best not to look worried but Arnav cut in.

"FREEDON OF SPEECH MY FOOT ... it doesn't give you the right to meddle in my personal life ... and about threatening ... you don't have any idea WHAT I COULD DO", said Arnav and gesture Aman ... he handed the file to Arnav.

"I own 38% shares of this company now", said Arnav stamming the file on table.

"it wont take me much time to buy 20% more shares giving me the highest bid and authority to fire you or shut down this company", said Arnav in menacing voice.

The director started to sweat as he read the file which clearly indicate that Arnav owns 38% share of this company and if he has 20% more share ... it will make him the highest bidder with 58% of shares.

"Mr. Raizada ... please we can sit and talk", said the director trying to ease the situation.

"I AM NOT HERE TO BLOODY SIT AND TALK", shouted Arnav ... "get me the man who wrote this article", said Arnav.

"yes ... yes ... Mr. Raizada", said the director and pick up the phone calling his News Editor guy.

After few minutes the News Editor guy enter the cabin and got shocked to see Arnav. Arnav grabs his collar, "WHO THE HELL GIVE YOU THE PERMISSION to write rubbish about me?", shouted Arnav.

"Sir ... Sir ... I ...", said the News Editor guy getting scared seeing Arnav so angry.

"ASR .. please ... we can talk without fighting", said Aman trying to take his hand of the collar.

"Aman ... you", said Arnav in anger as he left the collar.

"Letme handle it please ...", said Aman and Arnav take a step back.

"When you publish some news about personal life of a known person, be it celebrity or business man you have to take his consent first before printing it ... if not then its consider breaking the rules of Media ... and If that person file a complain against you ... you will get sue for this ... and also your license gets cancel. But we can let this go if you corporate with us", said Aman looking at both the director and News Editor guy.

"What we can do?", asked the director getting worried ... he didn't think in this perspective ... when his News Editor guy came with this news he was reluctant at first to publish as he knew that Mr. Raizada is a private person ... but at the same time its like a break through news as Arnav had stopped addressing to media 2, 3 years ago and no ones knows about his personal life much ... also when Arnav stop his flings 5 , 6 months ago ... everyone get curious to know whats happening in his life ... so it was like an oppurtunity for them to publish this news first. But doing that they had neglected the main fact which Aman said ... but again at the same time when the woman who give this news said that she is from AR .. they thought the news to be true ... and end it printing it.

"give us all the info about the woman who give you this gossip", said Aman and News Editor look stunned at him.

"How do you know that ...", News Editor guy about to ask when Aman completed his sentence.

"That it's a women who gave the info ... well we have our sources. But if you don't want the things to get worse .. give us her email id", said Aman.

Nodding his head, the News Editor guy take his cell out and search for the mail his assistant give him ... then he gave the id to Aman ... who quickly message Saurav about it.

Arnav hit his both hands on table with force making director flinch and step back, "You are going to print and cast on both your channels ... apologizing for printing the fake news ... you will apologise to mine and Ms. Gupta's family ... you will also tell that the picture is manipulated ... you will tell that someone from my past girlfriend is looking for revenge from me and uneccessarily drag Ms. Gupta in it ... She is not at all involved. Print this news in your evening paper right now ... also you are going to print the same news for a week ahead in morning and evening newspaper and same goes for you channels", said Arnav in menacing tone and then straighten up ... "if you didn't do as I said then get ready for your company to shut down ... and I MEANT EVERY WORD", said Arnav pointing a finger to the director giving a deathly glare to him and the News Editor guy and then turn and move out of the cabin with Aman.

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"Khushi...", someone called her and she looked up to see her sister Payal standing at the door.

"Jiji ...", said Khushi getting surprise.

Payal rush to her and hug Khushi sitting on the bed. "Jiji .. you here ...?", asked Khushi.

"Of course ... I saw the newspaper and I knew Amma baba would be worried for you so I have to come here ... what did they say? Did they scold you? I know Amma must have scold you?", said Payal hurridly.

"No jiji ... they didn't scold me ... Amma is angry I know but Baba said he will handle things ... so I came here ... he wanted to talk to Arnavji and Arush was getting hyper", said Khushi as she lovingly stroke Arush's cheek who was drinking his milk laying on the bed.

"Khushi ... did .. did Amam know that Arush call you Mama", asked Payal and Khushi got worried.

"Yes Jiji I guess ...", said Khushi.

Before Payal could say anything else she heard her mother voice.

"Payal ... go down ... they are waiting for lunch", said Garima coming inside the room. Payal stood up seeing her.

"Amma .. wo ..", Payal wanted to say but Garima stopped her, "You go down ... I will come later ... I need to talk to Khushi", said Garima a bit sternly and Payal nodded ... she went ahead and turn at the door looking at Khushi and assure her with eyes to not to worry and went out.

Garima came and sit on the bed opposite to Khushi and looked at Arush who was happily drinking his milk his one hand holding khushi's fingers.

"Amma", said Khushi slowly and worried.

"Do you love him?", asked Garima looking at Khushi. Khushi got stunned with the question but later after few seconds nods her head.

"Why didn't you tell us?", asked Garima again. Khushi lowered her head and then slowly taking Arush's hand off her finger she kneel down on floor facing Garima .. held her hands, "Amma ... I wanted to tell but I was scared that how will you react ... I didn't want you to think that I am doing something wrong ... which I am not.", said Khushi as tears form in her eyes.

"And why did you lie to us?", asked Garima ...

"Wo .. Amma .. wo Arnavji was upset with me ... we kind of fought and he went away .. I was so worried for him that I just wanted to see him ... I know you wouldn't have allowed me to go ... also you didn't knew about us ... I am sorry Amma ... I love him so much", said Khushi .. now tears easily flow from her eyes on her cheeks.

"And he? ... he loves you?", asked Garima. Khushi was surprise at the her mother was calmingly asking her questions but she was glad that she ddint have to hide these things anymore.

"yes Amma ... he loves me too ... he don't say much but I know ... Amma Arnavji is very nice ... he has struggles so much in life ... I want to make him happy Amma", said Khushi looking at her mother.

"And the baby ... he called you' (emphasizing on the word) Mama ... right?", said Garim gesturing towards Arush. And Khushi nods her head ... then she tell her mother how and when Arush called her mother and then there was not stopping and how Arush become important for her.

"And did you think what will happen ahead?", asked Garima.

"Amma I don't understand what you mean?", said Khushi.

"Khushi ... Arnav bitwa is 8 years older than you ... he was married ... he has a kid ... and you love him .. his kid call you mother ... do you what people say about this? They will all gossip ... its not right", said Garima now sounded worried.

"Amma isn't it good that he call me mother .. isn't it right that he had already accepted me as his mother?", said Khushi emotionally.

"bitya its not easy as you think ... you will be a step mother to him ... do you know what step mother means in our society? people will taunt you if anything goes wrong ... they will held you responsible ... you don't know this society we live in ... they make one's living unbearable", said Garima putting her thoughts out which were going in her mind the time she heard Arush call Khushi "Mama".

"So what Mama ... I don't care what people think ... I trust myself ... I will do the best for him ... didn't you did the same Amma?", said Khushi lokking at her mother.

"Me ...? What you mean?", said Garima.

"You and Baba adopted me ... you didn't care what people said when you were bringing me up ... you never differentiate between me and jiji ... you handle every obstacle and taunt ... and face the world with brave face ... Don't you trust me Amma? I am your daughter ... I can handle things ... I love him so much Amma (Khushi looked at Arush whose eyes were now dropping) I wont make any harm come to him", said Khushi with determination.

Garima look at her daughter in awe ... she had always seen her as the mischievous kid ... not taking things seriously ... always easy going ... seeing her this determine about something and that too for a big responsibility like a kid make her proud on her daughter but at the same time worried for her as always. When Shashi came back from the study he had talk with Garima to trust their daughter as he believe that she do anything wrong and Arnav will make everything right. After few minutes of thinking Garima to came to the conclusion that their daughters had never done anything which will bring shame to their family name. But the kid calling her Mama make her worried so she thought to have a talk with Khushi.

"I didn't know that my bitya could get that mature", said Garima lovingly as she run her hand on Khushi's head.

"Amma ... just be with me", said Khushi kissing her mother's hand. "if you are with me ... I can do anything".

"I am always with you bitya", said Garima

--------------------- After Some time @ AR Designz

"Saurav did you get to know whose id was that?", asked Aman as soon as he and Arnav enter ARID.

"Yes we run for the Ip address ... the id belongs too Ms. Parmindar K.", said Saurav.

"Parmindar?", said Aman scrunching his eyebrows as if trying to remembering something.

"Aman you know about her?", asked Arnav looking at Aman.

"yeah I guess I heard this name ... Saurav run this name in our employee data base", said Aman and Saurav gesture the IT guy who was sitting with a laptop.

After 15 minutes the IT guy said, "Parmindar Kumar ... Assistant to Manager Mohaish Rana of Management department. And then he turn the laptop towards Aman and Arnav.

"What the ...", said Arnav ... "Oh my..", said Aman seeing Pam's pic.

"Why the hell she did this for?", said Arnav loudly in anger.

"That I don't know ASR", said Aman he too didn't understand why would she do something like this.

"Dammit ... I am not gona spare her", said Arnav and went out of ARID.

"ASR please calm down ... let me handle this.", said Aman walking with Arnav hurriedly.

"No way Aman .. I am gona handle her my way ... the nerve of her", said Arnav fisting his hand.

After few minutes both enter the office hall ... they went few steps ahead but stopped as Arnav heard Khushi's name.

1^st male employee: "I told you na Vicky .. But you never believe me.."

Vicky: "But I never thought she will be like this.. I mean ASR and Khushi..? I still can't believe this Sunil"

Sonia: "Even I am shocked. I saw them together in London but I didn't knew that it was this serious.

Suman: "Sonia leave it ... Khushi is not like this ... you know Media they just print what they think without any proof.

Sunil: "Proof? Suman this picture is proof enough and we all had seen how ASR was caring for Khushi ... he never does that for anyone else".

Suman: "So? .. its their personal matter ... its better we leave it". And Suman move from there dragging Sonia along.

Sunail: "waisey you have to give credit to her (he winks at Vicky) ... she is an item (looking at the picture) .. ASR is so lucky to be with her ... anyone would want to be with her ...

But his sentence didn't get completed as a loud voice echoed through the hall. Arnav had slap Sunil very hard that he stumble back two steps. All other employees got shock to witness this. Aman was shock as well ... Arnav reacted so fast that he couldn't even utter a word.

When Sunil straighten up he got scared to see Arnav standing in front of him ... his eyes shooting daggers. Arnav grabs his collar.

"Her name is not an item ... its Khushi Gupta ... a respected employee of AR. Those who don't respects other are not allowed in AR ... You work here but that doesn't mean you can talk about my personal life and who does interfere I don't spare him", said Arnav with gritting teeth.

"ASR .. I .. I amm so", Sunil want to apologize but Arnav jerk him away leaving his collar.

"I don't even give them a chance to ask forgiveness.", said Arnav and then he turn to look at his employees and said in a loud voice, "What Khushi and I share? What our relation is? What she is to me? I didn't give the right to discuss this to anyone ... DO YOU UNDERSTAND", shouted Arnav and all employees look down.

"MY LIFE IS NONE OF YOUR BUISNESS ... IS THAT CLEAR TO ALL", shouted Arnav again. And they all shiver hearing him roar.

"And if anyone said anything ... any damn single thing about Khushi ... believe me I won't spare that person", said Arnav. All the employees murmurs yes and their head still down indicating that they will follow his order and no one will say or discuss anything about Khushi or him.

"And you", said Arnav grabbing Sunil's corner again. "You are fired", said Arnav and push him towards the hall door.

"No Sir ... please .. I am sorry Sir", said Sunil.

"I said you are fired dammit ... Security ... get him out of this place", shouted Arnav. Guards who stood outside the hall came in and drag Sunil out.

"Miss Parmindar Kumar", shouted Arnav. Pam who was also their got scared when Arnav take her name. She got the intuition that Arnav got to know that it was her who send the picture to the news.

She didn't move from her place. Her colleague nudges her to go ahead. She jerk and slowly took step towards Arnav.

Not want to create another scene Aman move ahead and slowly said to Arnav.

"ASR I think we should go to your cabin ... don't do it here please", said Aman.

"No Aman ... everyone has the right to know ... and its about Khushi I don't give a damn to anyone here", said Arnav in low tone for Aman to here but the tone itself told Aman that no one can stop ASR now.

"Miss Parmindar, didn't I just say that the one who don't respects others don't have the right to work here ... So you are fired as well", said Arnav loud enough for everyone ... and then there were gasps from the people.

"ASR ... please listen ...",Pam tried to say but Arnav cut her.

"SHUT UP ... it was you who send the picture to the INDIA TIMES ... you told all that rubbish to write ... didn't you?", said Arnav in loud angry voice and Pam took a step back flinching. She looked down too scare to say anything.

"Didn't you ... SPEAK UP DAMMIT", yelled Arnav. And Pam just nods her head.

"Miss Parmindar Kumar you are fired from AR and I will make sure you wont get job anywhere else", said Arnav.

"No ASR please .. I am sorry ... I ...", Pam want to say but again got shut up by Arnav.

"GET THE HELL OUT OF HERE NOW ...", roared Arnav ... and Pam flinched back.

"Aman ... get her out now ... I don't want to see her bloody face in this office", said Arnav and turn and move up the stairs to his cabin.

Aman gesture Pam to follow him .. Pam tried to apologize but Aman knew nothing can be done now ... so he in next few minutes Pam got her termination letter. After that Aman went to Arnav cabin.

He too didn't like the way others talk about Khushi but there was another thing that worried him.

"ASR ...", said Aman moving towards his desk. Arnav turn around ... he was standing near the window wall looking outside at the city below.

"I wont question your actions ... but I want to say that your statement of "what Khushi means to you and what her relation is to you" will give others more chance to talk about you two."

"I don't care Aman what they say and think", said Arnav in a curt tone.

"I know you don't care but this time it isn't about you only ... its about Khushi as well", said Aman trying to explain him.

"I know that Aman ... I won't let any harm come to her", said Arnav and take few step towards Aman. He looked at Aman and before he could say anything else Arnav finally said himself, "I LOVE HER".

Aman got stunned at what he heard ... he couldn't believe at his ears ... at what Arnav said.

"you what?", asked Aman after few seconds in a daze.

"I love Khushi ... Aman .. I really love her ... I can't explain you how much she means to me ... I wish I could ... but thats all I have to say for now that I love her", said Arnav with a small smile finally telling someone himself about his feelings for Khushi.

Aman stood there looking at Arnav ... after few seconds a word escape his lips .."Woooww.." in daze state.

"I mean ... just wow man ... I couldn't believe that you just said that ...", said Aman running his hand through hair. "I still cant beielive it ... no .. I cant believe it ... its hard to believe it", said Aman going on ...

"Aman ...", called Arnav a bit sternly.

"No really ... who would believe it .. no one would believe it", said Aman in his own thoughts.

"Aman...", this time Arnav called loudly. And Aman comes out of his thought and look at Arnav.

"That's enough ..", said Arnav.

"oh yes .. yes .. ok ... fine .. good ... I am good", said Aman and Arnav look at him amusingly ... here he just confess his love for Khushi and there Aman is getting all worked up ... but what Arnav know that it really hard to believe for a person who had only seen him being arrogant, shouting and getting hyper.

"Aman ... isn't Mr. Richard in office today?", asked Arnav suddenly remember that he haven't seen Mr. Richard in office or any VF team member of that matter.

"oh that .. Lavanya took them all out for lunch and later she planned to take them for sight seeing some where ... she thought its better to keep them busy while we sort the mess out", said Aman and Arnav appreciated Lavanya's thought.

"Aman ...", Arnav about to say something but Aman answered his question.

"No .. they didn't know about the article and Lavanya make sure with prachi and Vijay that they don't get to know plus our team wont talk about it either", said Aman and Arnav nods his head in acknowledgment.

Arnav came near to Aman, "Aman ...", grabbing his shoulders with both hand

"yes ASR", said Aman slightly confuse and worried at his gesture. But the next words blow his mind.

"THANK YOU MAN ...", said Arnav with a smile ... his eyes showing gratitude.

That's second shock Aman got ... Arnav saying thanks to him .. which he never said to any one before.

"huh ...", that's all could Aman say as of now.

"Thank you for being there every time when I needed you ... thank you for understanding me ... thank you for bearing me ... thank you for ... For being my friend Aman", said Arnav still holding his shoudlers.

Aman mouth slightly opened in shock ... and he just stare at Arnav without saying anything ... his poor mind just couldn't take it all in one moment.

When after many seconds Aman didnt say anything and just stare at Arnav ... Arnav got fluster a bit ... "Aman ...", Arnav called him but no response.

"Aman ...", this time Arnav jerk him ...

"Huh ...you said thank you to me ...", said Aman in daze.

"that I did ...", said Arnav stepping back ... but still when Aman didn't come out of his shock Arnav called him sternly and loudly .."Aman .. that's enough ...".

"yes ...", said Aman and come out of his shock ...

"didn't you have work to do ... I guess we have meeting in evening ...", said Arnav in a curt tone.

"oh yes .. we have .. I will just go ...", said Aman and turn to go but then turn back to look at Arnav ... but the stern look at ASR face make him stop.

"yeah I just go ... and prepare for meeting", said Aman and turn to go ... his head was still buzzing with the two shocks he got ... he shakes his head and went out of the cabin ... poor Aman ... coming thank you from Arnav made his mind worked up.

Arnav smile ... surprisingly he felt good ... the moment Aman answer his question without listening he remembers Khushi's words and he remember the time when he started AR ... Aman was with him all the time ... working day and night by his side and always supported him in every action or decision of his ... he never named his relation with Aman but when Khushi said that he is his best friend he felt very good ... he wanted to say so much ... most importantly to thank the man who was always remain by his side in very problem and difficulty. Looking at the stunned expression on Aman's face make him amuse .. he like that in a way. Friends ... best friends ... this sounds good to Arnav now.

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