Chapter 75

Khushi came out of the elevator on the 6^th floor ... she moves to the left, as the hotel manager told her, the stairs will take her to the rooftop.

After Arnav left the party, Khushi couldn't stay there for long ... she wanted to go back as soon as possible and meet Arnav ... so after an hour she came back to hotel with Payal, Anjali and Rahul ... others stay back to enjoy the party. She msged Arnav when she entered the hotel and got his reply next second to come on rooftop ... she shyly told Payal that she is going to meet Arnav and in return got teased by her sister and Anjali too. Some where she was feeling worried that if something is wrong and on the other hand her heart flutter with anticipation of being alone with him ... she wanted to spend some quality time with him as they will be going back to India tomorrow. She wanted to do something special to be remembered forever.

Coming to rooftop, Khushi spotted Arnav on the left side, standing against the railing. She moves towards him, there was a table set for two and there was a thing which she figures out to be a champagne bucket with two glasses.

Arnav turns back hearing the footsteps and saw Khushi approaching him ... he move a step ahead and held out his hand as Khushi came near. She gives him a big smile as she held his hand ... but the next moment gasped as Arnav pulled her to him.

"Ahh ... Arnavji ... waa" Khushi wanted to asked but her words die as Arnav capture her lips. She couldn't stop the moan that erupted from her as she wound her hands around his neck ... Her clutch fell on the floor ... all question of what, why, how ... left her as she felt his tongue touching hers.

Hearing her moan Arnav couldn't help but deepen the kiss as he plunder his tongue inside her sweet mouth sucking hers ... he pull her more close, crushing her petite form in his strong arms.

Khushi left like she has been kissed after ages although it was only a week back that Arnav kissed her in his suite ... she had craved his touch since then ... his lips are so addictive and she needed more. She felt his tongue explore her and it was driving her crazy. She hungrily kissed him back, not wanting to lose any distance between them as she presses herself more into him ... the pleasure that seared through her body made her legs go week, she stumble a bit but Arnav held her tightly, his hands around her waist and back. Their bodies were fused together, just like their lips were, that now even air could not pass between them.

They kissed for the longest time, taking small breaths in between but not leaving each other lips, finally when they were in dire need of breath they broke apart, their breathing heavy and un-even. Arnav place his forehead on hers as they both tried to control their breathing.

After some time when their breath become somewhat regular Arnav place small kisses along her cheek and jawline, Khushi tilted her head to give him access and he move down to her slender neck, giving little nips and licks ... She moaned again and Arnav felt his arousal starting to get uncomfortable ... he needed to stop ... there are some things that needed to be discussed. Reluctantly he pulled back and a protesting groan left from Khushi's throat. Khushi tried to pull back from his grip but Arnav didn't let her move.

"Don't", said Arnav with heavy breath. Khushi cupped his face and starting stroking his cheeks with her thumbs.

This was something esle ... different from all the kisses they have shared before ... Khushi had felt the desire, the passion and heat in his all kisses but this time ... she had felt longing and craving and not to forget this was their longest kiss till now.

"You ok Arnavji?", asked Khushi looking at his handsome face and closed eyes.

Arnav nodded his head ... he felt her hands pushing back some of his hair that had fallen on his forehead. Arnav open his eyes and gaze at her beautiful face intently.

"I wanted to do this since the time I saw you in this dress ... you're looking so gorgeous", said Arnav huskily.

Khushi blush but didn't avert her eyes this time, "Why not ... after all you gifted me this", she replied with a shy smile. They were still holding each other tightly.

"I love you Khushi", said Arnav after few seconds. Khushi looked at him surprise ... he is not a man of words but rather of actions ... she knew it very well ... he hardly say his feeling verbally ... but nevertheless when he do ... its makes her so happy and astonish.

"I love you too ... (Khushi paused) ... Arnav", replied Khushi in soft tone. Now it was Arnav's turn to get surprise, as she had said his name without "ji".

Getting overwhelmed Arnav gave her a long, sound smooch on her lips. Getting shy, Khushi hide her face into his chest and then few second later she wound her hands around his waist hugging him close.

They stay like this for some time ... then as Khushi eyes fell on the champagne bucket, she remembers something and breaks the hug, moving back.

"Arnavji ... how stupid I am ... I never got to congratulate you", said Khushi as she smack her forehead.

"What?", Arnav was confuse.

"For the show Arnavji ... many many congratulations ... the show got successful and Lavanya ji told me that you also signed a contract with VF ... now AR will work internationally ... finally your dream come true Arnavji", said Khushi happily.

"Thank you sweetheart", said Arnav ... Many people had congratulated him about his success ... but the warmth he felt with Khushi was something in its own.

"So lets celebrate ... you got champagne for this right", said Khushi as she move towards the table and picked the champagne bottle.

"umm not quite right ... I thought to celebrate my new dream", said Arnav as he held her hands in his.

"new dream? What is it?", asked Khushi curious.

"You know it Khushi", said Arnav with smile. And Khushi frowns trying to remember when he told her about it.

"You ... Are ... My ... New ... Dream ... Khushi", said Arnav pressing on each word ... and saw Khushi eyes brim with tears, as she remembers the day when he got shot and before closing his eyes he had said the same thing.

Putting the bottle back on table, Khushi hug him instantly, as she remembers that dreadful day ... she did not want Arnav to see her tears ... but Arnav pull back ... shaking his head as he wipes her tears. Khushi smile at him.

"Khushi ... remember you asked something before coming to Paris? When you asked me to bring Arush with you and I denied ... saying that with what right you will take him with you and you said ..." Arnav was saying when Khushi completed his sentence, "and I said to give me the right".

"yes Khushi ... you asked me to give you the right ... and now I want to give you that right", said Arnav as move a step away from Khushi.

"I want to give you the right to hold him, to love him, the right to call him your own without any fear of people asking questions, I want to give you the right to openly declare that he is your son", said Arnav as he look at her intently.

Khushi heart beat accelerated hearing this, understanding the meaning ... she knew what must be coming next ... but will it really happen? She waited with bated breath ...

"In the same way, I want to have the right to call you mine, I want to have the right to hold you close without any worry of media or someone watching ... I want to have the right to kiss you wherever ...whenever I want ... I want to have the right to see your face first thing in the morning when I wake up ... I want to have the right to hold you in my arms when I go to sleep ... I want to have the right to shout out the world that you belong only to me and I to you ", said Arnav as he take something out of his pant pocket and then kneel down on the floor.

Khushi gasped as she covers her mouth with hands, not believing that it is actually happening.

"Will you give me that right Khushi? WILL YOU MARRY ME?", asked Arnav as he held out a beautiful ring looking up at shocking Khushi.

After his conversation with Rahul, Arnav thought about it a lot ... standing away from Khushi with longing in his heart to hold her close without any worry of people asking question had made his mind more clear. He still had some fear of the relation called marriage ... but if that relation can give him the right to hold her anywhere he wants, to call her his own without giving explanation to anyone then he is ready for it. He remembers Khushi's word about how life is too short, to not to duel in past and think of future ... and when he thought about future ... he only saw Khushi in front of his eyes. Yes Rahul was right ... he had denied all these things but since Khushi came in his life everything changes ... he changed. He worried for her, care for her ... He loves her.

Then he remember the time when he wanted to be with Khushi but could not as worrying about media's gossip, worrying about her safety and respect ... how frustrated he felt then ... he remember the nights when sleep deprived him ... how much he wanted Khushi with him then. When he saw Rahul going up to his Di, kissing her on cheek openly and then dance with her ... he wanted to do that with Khushi but could not ... then he remembers the time how they went out with Arush from back side of hotel so that they don't come under media eye ... how frustrated he felt to do this ... when Arush got hurt, he watched Khushi's worried face, how she wanted to hold him then but could not as all other team members were present there ... then he remember that man's word ... his wife ... his son ... his family.

All these thoughts came in his mind one by one and made his resolve more clear ... that he wanted Khushi in his life ... he cannot live without her ... and if marriage is the only way to guarantee that ... then he will do it.

So now, he kneeled before Khushi ... waiting desperately for her reply.

Khushi stood motionless, staring at him ... her eyes filling with tears ... her heart beating very fast ... she could not believe this that Arnav propose her ... she was thinking to talk about them after the they go back to India ... she wanted to talk to him about their relation ... how they will go from here ... what will they do ... but she never thought that Arnav will beat her to this and do something which she wasn't expecting at all.

Arnav got worried when Khushi didn't respond, may be this is too much for her, thought Arnav.

"Khushi ... I know we haven't discussed about it ... I asked you to explore things with me ... to see how things go ahead ... but ... now ... I can't wait Khushi ... I need you beside me .. .in my life forever ... I know this must be shocking for you ... but I ...", Arnav was saying not knowing how to explain her when Khushi extended her left hand towards him. Arnav stopped seeing her hand and then he heard her saying a single word.

"YES ..." Khushi didn't know how her voice came out ... she was just feeling too over whelmed right now.

That will be the brightest smile that came on his face as he slips the ring in her finger ... he was about to get up when he felt her weight on him and he stumble back on floor.

"What the ...", exclaimed Arnav as he stumble on floor with Khushi above him.

Just as Arnav slipped the ring in her hand ... Khushi jumped on him ... hugging him tightly as tears roll down her cheek. Arnav hold her with one hand and other hand on floor not to fell flat.

"Oh Arnavji ... I love you ... I love you ... I love sooo much", said Khushi happily wiggling him in her hug.

"Khushi ... Khushi ...", Arnav tried to pull her back.

"But Arnavji ... how come you are asking for marriage?", asked Khushi breaking the hug as the initial happy phase of getting propose subside and she remembered that Arnav dislike the relation marriage.

"Why? You don't want to marry me?", asked Arnav confuse and surprised at the question.

Khushi quickly shakes her head, "No ... I do ... there is nothing I want more than getting tied with you for lifetime Arnavji ... but you were against marriage ... you hated the idea", asked Khushi with concern, "Did something happen or someone said something to you? Nanji? Anjali ji?".

Arnav was awe and felt contended that even now she is worried about what he thinks or feel ... how can someone be so selfless ... he looked amusedly at Khushi.

"Khushi I won't lie ... I still have some uncertainty about the marriage thing ... but more than that I am hell sure that I cannot live without you ... I want you with me everyday, every minute ... every second ... hell I never believe in falling love either but here I am ... truly and deeply in love with you ... and with that love I believe in us ... If I falter I am sure you will be there to guide me", said Arnav

"oh Arnavji ... I will always be here with you", said Khushi hugging him back. Arnav smile and hug her back.

"Oh I can't tell you how happy I am", said Khushi as she pull back from the hug.

"Yeah I can see that", said Arnav as he straighten, sitting on the floor with Khushi in his lap, amuse that she still didn't realize their position.

"We need to celebrate now ... yuppie", Khushi exclaimed like a child as she got up and pick the champagne bottle from the table. Arnav brush dust off his pant as he stands up and chuckles seeing Khushi struggling with the champagne bottle to open it.

"Here allow me", said Arnav as he takes the bottle from her and then open it in few seconds. He pours the champagne in glasses and hand one over to Khushi.

"Cheers", said Khushi as she click her glass with Arnav's and drink a little. Arnav chuckled again as he saw Khushi make a weird face.

"You don't like it?", asked Arnav and Khushi shakes her head.

"You never drink champagne before?", asked Arnav again amused.

"I did ... only on occasions but I prefer not to ... I don't like its taste", said Khushi.

"Then why are you drinking it?", asked Arnav.

"Because I want to celebrate this moment with you", said Khushi innocently.

"There are other ways do that as well ... you know", said Arnav smirking as he take her glass and put it back on the table along with his.

Then he pull her to him putting his hand on her waist, "You know na what I mean", said Arnav leaning close to her face.

Khushi grab his face and pull down smashing her lips with his, kissing him passionately, Arnav was jolted with her passion at first ... her boldness always surprise him ... then pulling her close he responded with equal passion.

After breaking the kiss, Khushi move away from him being shy and little embarrass at her own boldness. She put her hands on the railing ... watching the glowing magnificent beauty of Eiffel tower surrounded by lights. Arnav came behind her ... hugging her from back ... Khushi lean back on his chest.

"is it real? ... it still feel like a dream to me", asked Khushi in daze as she stare at the Eiffel tower.

Arnav pinches her on her right arm, "Owh ... Arnavji ...", Khushi pouted as she turns back in his arm facing him.

"it's not a dream anymore ... it will be getting real very soon", said Arnav. Khushi smile and places her hands on his chest ... her ring glitters.

"When did you get this?", asked Khushi pointing towards the ring.

"When I bought this dress for you ... I saw this ring in show case ... tonight when I finally decided what I wanted to do I went straight to that shop and bought it ... I didn't want to waste any more time", said Arnav and Khushi smiles.

"Do you like it?", asked Arnav.

"its beautiful Arnavji", said Khushi and peck his lips softly but Arnav grab her nape as he place his lips on her firmly ... kissing her sensuously ... it seems like he is not getting his fill of her tonight.

"Dd ..d .ooo y o oo u knooww ... h hooww maan nny ti imes we haave kissed tonight", said Khushi with irregular breath. Arnav gesture with his head, asking the question, his own breath un-even.

"Four times", replied Khushi.

"Make it five then", said Arnav as he again kissed her. Khushi felt herself go dizzy with his passionate kissing.

"I think I am going to faint", said Khushi after her breath got normal.

Arnav chuckled, "No you're not ... I am here to gold you always".

"Always", said Khushi looking into his eyes.

"Always", replied Arnav with all the love he had for the woman in his arms.

-------------------------------------------------------

"Arnavji hurry naa", said Khushi getting impatient as she hop on Arnav's bed.

"Wait ... I am doing it", said Arnav as he inserted the CD in his laptop sitting beside her on bed. Soon the fashion show started playing on laptop screen ... Khushi smile widely looking at Arnav and then back at screen.

After much kisses and warmth caresses, Arnav decided to go back when he saw Khushi stifling a yawn ... he chuckled at her innocence expression. While in the elevator Arnav asked Khushi if she is not too much sleepy he wanted to show her something ... Khushi instantly agree but asked for few minutes so the she change into her comfy night clothes. After some time she came to Arnav's suite and got surprise to know that Arnav wanted to show her the fashion show footage as she had complain to him 2, 3 days ago that he made her miss the display of her design. So he had taken the CD first hand himself from Mr. Richard.

Khushi clapped like a kid when she saw her designs and talk how she made them and what difficulty she faced in their production phase. Arnav was mostly watching Khushi rather than the fashion show as her every expression was captivating.

Then the scene came where they both walked on the ramp ... Khushi watched it with awe ... she found them looking fascinating together.

"See you were getting nervous without any reason ... nothing happen ... no one knew that it was you", said Arnav looking at Khushi.

"That's because I was wearing the mask ... imagine the situation if I wasn't", said Khushi.

"well then you should be glad that I had your mask with me", said Arnav.

"well I am more shocked then glad that you had my mask all this time with you", said Khushi shaking her head slightly as the idea still didn't settle down with her that Arnav had held onto her mask from 3 n half years.

"Well just like you have my cravat with you all this time", said Arnav with a glint in his eyes.

"What??", said Khushi bewildered.

"My black cravat ... which I thrown away at that function ... you picked it up right", said Arnav tilting his head a little.

"Ho ..ww. do .. yoouu know that?", asked Khushi stammering a bit.

"Oh I saw it in your drawer", said Arnav nonchalant.

"My drawer?", asked Khushi confuse thinking when he saw her drawer.

"Yeah ... in Mumbai when you invited us for lunch at your home", said Arnav as he saw Khushi's eyes go wide.

Khushi get up from the bed, anxious to know that Arnav saw his cravat in her drawer ... it was true ... in that function when the show was over and she was going back ... she happen to see Arnav little distance away talking to Aman clearly in anger ... he didn't saw her as his back was to her ... then Arnav grab his cravat and had thrown it away probably in frustration ... she didn't know the reason then ... but later as Arnav told her that he was frustrated when he couldn't find her then ... maybe that was the moment then ... Khushi didn't know why but she didn't move from there until Arnav was gone and she had picked his cravat and store it in her drawer since then ... she use to hold it sometimes ... remembering the scene when he cornered her in the booth.

Khushi chew her nails as another realization dawn on her, as she move few steps away from the bed, if Arnav had seen the cravat in her drawer then he must have seen his sketch as well that she had made.

"yes I saw my sketch as well", answering her thought as Arnav too get up from the bed and take a step towards her.

Khushi turn back with a jerk, looking anxiously at Arnav who had a lopsided grin on his face.

"I was shocked to see my sketch and the details you have portrayed ... its amazing that you have been able to pull it with only one meeting of ours then ... or ... (Arnav came near to her) you were keeping an eye on me", said Arnav raising an eyebrow at her.

Khushi mouth opened in an O, she closed it and opens it again ... nothing coming in her mind to as a reply to this. How can she tell him that she couldn't get rid of from her mind and had been collecting news and information about him, even though she tried not to ... but failed.

"I ... I ... don't know what you're talking about", said Khushi after a minute as she move towards the door but Arnav block her way ... completely enjoying the situation and fluster Khushi.

"oh yeah ... then what all those business magazine doing in your shelf and not to forget all that newspaper clippings", said Arnav with a teasing tone and a wide smirk on his face.

Khushi look at him nervous, but seeing him smirking she got angry and irritated, "you ... you saw my things ... Thats not right Arnavji ... one should not touch other personal things". She didn't want him to know that ... it was her secret ... she was feeling embarrass that she had been caught with her crush on him.

"So what? Its no big deal ... besides I am glad to know that I had a secret admirer although it was hard to believe at that time that it was you", said Arnav ... smirk still intact on his face.

"You ... you were not supposed to saw that?", said Khushi

"Why not?", asked Arnav mischievously.

"Because ... because ...", Khushi fidgeted with her finger thinking of a reason. Arnav chuckled at her nervousness ... they had been intimate and close and have come a long way in their relation from where they have started ... and still sometimes Khushi behave like its new.

"you are making fun of me", said Khushi angrily.

"What ... no ... I am just surprise that why are you feeling embarrass about it", said Arnav smirking again.

"Don't ... don't do that", said Khushi.

"What?", said Arnav.

"that ... that ... don't laugh", said Khushi as she move near him pointing a finger.

Arnav saw her finger and then said, "I am not", smiling down at her.

"you ... you are very bad", said Khushi as she give a punch on his chest. "You were not supposed to see that", another smack on his chest.

Arnav caught her hand the third time and she tried to move back ... Arnav held both her hands tightly ... Khushi jerk her hands to free them and doing so she stumble back ... Arnav move forward with the jerk and both landed on bed ... with Arnav on top on her.

Both lost in each other, staring and feeling the effect of their bodies ... her hands clutching his shirt from collar and Arnav's one hand was beneath her back and other on the bed as he balance himself on to fall on her flat.

Khushi look into his eyes ... getting lost in them ... her mind playing various things ... how he asked her to wear the dress ... how he give her the mask so that she don't feel much nervous ... how he proposed her ... his kisses ... her conversation with Lavanya ... at that moment she felt what Lavanya had told her ... that it feel right ... right to be with the person you love the most ... to love him and to be loved by him. All thoughts of argument flew out of her mind, occupying only one thing ... Arnav.

Arnav too was lost in her green depths ... her soft body under his ... playing havoc with his body and desires ... he slowly lowered his head looking into her eyes ... Khushi close her eyes in submission and Arnav needed nothing more to go ahead as he place his warm lips on her soft ones.

They kiss each other with passionate fervor, Arnav suck on her tongue tasting her unique flavor, thrusting his tongue further in depths of her sweet mouth. Khushi hands slid into his hair, pulling hard and Arnav pressed his body further into her. Khushi moan as she felt his hand going inside her tee and caresses her stomach. Her heart galloped as his hand roam upwards ... she too wanted to touch his body ... she move her one hand on his back going down and then enter his tee ... Arnav groan feeling her soft hand on his back ... his control snapped and he broke the kiss, going down, licking and nipping her jaw and neck. His hand now caressing underside of her breast ... she arch her body when she felt his hand closing on her breast completely ... his other hand move the tee from her shoulder nipping and licking the area.

Khushi was feeling very strange at the pit of her stomach now ... a kind of ache between her legs ... she could feel her body heating up ... she knew her body wants him but at the same time she was scared ... scared of this close intimacy and which it will lead to ... at one point she feel to let go of every thought and submit herself to him, as she wanted to do something special for him ... and thought to make this night special for him by giving herself completely to him ... and at other point she wanted to stop and run away as she felt anxious and scared of her body response and her thudding heart. Again and again she repeated in her mind not to think and to give in completely. While struggling between her thoughts she didn't realized that her hands got stiffen on his back.

Fortunately Arnav realizes this as alarm bells rings in his head that it is getting way ahead ... he looked at her face and found her brows frown and didn't miss the slight look of uncertainty on her face ... Gathering much strength he moved back getting away from her tempting body ... he stood up from bed ... his back to her as he raked his hand in his hair ... trying to control his wild desires and thoughts.

He cannot deny that he wanted her ... hell more than anything he wanted to make love to her now and the thing that Khushi didn't stop him either was not helping him ... he knew she is submitting herself to him ... she always submit to his moves never protesting ... but he didn't want it to be that way ... he want to make it special for her ... he knew her beliefs about marriage and her traditional values ... if she can forget them just for him, then why can't he control his wild desire for her. He wanted do it in a proper way, he didn't want her to regret ... Like he did in the past.

His thought process broke when he heard a sniffing sound ... he turn back and got worried seeing tears running down her cheek, looking down, her hand fidgeting together.

"Khushi ...", Arnav said her name slowly as he move towards her.

"Khushi sweetheart ... I am sorry ... I didn't ...", Arnav was saying when he got cut by Khushi.

"You don't want me", said Khushi suddenly.

"What?", Arnav got startled hearing this.

"You ... you stopped ... you don't want me that way", said Khushi, stifling her sob, as her mind played what Lavanya said that how can man like ASR control his desires for her ... the unbelievable look on Lavanya face came to her mind ... may be he didn't have that kind of desires for her ... may be she didn't evoke such feeling him like he does in her.

Grabbing her hand, Arnav yank her up from the bed and grabbing her waist pulls her to him, joining their bodies tightly. Khushi gasped as he felt his hardness, she look up at him with wide eyes ... his eyes smoldering down at her.

"what does it tell you haan?", asked Arnav couldn't help but get angry at what she said ... how can she said that after playing havoc with his mind and body.

Seeing her scared expression Arnav cooled down and touch her cheek, "There is nothing more I want right now to claim you ... to bury inside your soft body Khushi ... but I don't it that way. I don't want you to regret the moment later.".

"I won't regret, I want it too", said Khushi blushed deep red.

"Khushi you are saying this because you are caught in the moment but when you realize later what had happen ... you will not like it ... even now I can tell that you're not fully ready for this then why didn't you stop or said anything", said Arnav as he loosen his grip and held her more softly.

"but I am ready Aranvji", said Khushi but couldn't hide and anxiousness in her voice.

Arnav stare at her for few seconds, "you are ready to take things further ... to the level where there is no turning back".

"Um ... ye ... ess", said Khushi a bit hesitatingly as she avoid her eyes.

Arnav sighed and held her hands taking her to bed and making her sit ... he kneel down on floor in front of her grabbing her hands in his.

"Khushi your heart might approve of it ... but I am sure that your mind doesn't agree with it", said Arnav and Khushi looked at him surprise as to how he can know about the struggle going on her mind and heart.

"Khushi look ... we both love each other and understand each other ... I know and sure that I want you and I know you do to but I also know how much you values these things about marriage and taking relationship to next level. I want it that way ... I don't want you to feel oblige to do just because I want it. Khushi I have been there ... I know how it feels. You will do it because other want it but then later you get feeling that you did wrong ... you try to cover that feeling with your responsibility toward the other person but the inner conscious don't make you at peace with it", said Arnav ... as he remember his time with Tania.

"I didn't love Tania ... but she did ... and I knew that ... she wanted to take things further and I obliged thinking it as my responsibility but later I felt that I did wrong as I couldn't make myself to love her that way even when I tried many times and when ... when ... she did that ... I hated myself ... so much ...", said Arnav as he got lost in past memories.

Khushi held his one hand and cup his cheeks with other ... it was first time that Arnav was speaking about Tania and she can see the anger and hatred in his eyes ... she didn't knew what Tania did to make Arnav hate her that much ... but she didn't want to know if it brings pain to him ... that's the one thing she didn't want to see on his face ... no matter what.

"I don't want you to go through that feeling Khushi", said Arnav as he kiss her palm.

Khushi wanted to say that she won't regret it ... He didn't love Tania that's why he felt that way ... but she ... she love him so much ... so why would she feel that way ... but she stopped herself, seeing the pain look on his face.

"I am sorry Arnavji ... I ... I just wanted to do something special for you ... you have done so many things for me ... and me none ... I wanted something that you will remember forever", said Khushi.

"Who said that you done nothing special ... you have done so many things for me Khushi", said Arnav with tender look in his eyes ... Understanding what she meant.

Khushi looked at him confuse and curious.

"When you brought flower for me just to say thank you ... that was special to me ... I had girlfriends before, they all expected expensive gifts from me but never given me something as innocent as you did", said Arnav as he caresses her cheek and Khushi smile at him.

"When you avoid sweets even when you are crazy about them, just because I can't have them ... that's special for me ... When you sung a lullaby for Arush when he wasn't getting any sleep ... That was special to me", Arnav said further.

Khushi got surprise ... he remember all these little things.

"When he got hurt and you made me realize that he needs me and also how to handle him ... that was special to me ... When you came to office, after my factory burned, the way you consoled me ... that was special to me.

When all the time I was at my most vulnerable state you stay with me without asking question or probing ... giving your silent warmth ... that was special to me.

When you understand what I am feeling without even me saying it ... that's special to me.", said Arnav and smile at shocked expression of Khushi.

"When you didn't know what was the future of our relation but still you expected everything I say or did, not holding anything back ... that trust you showed towards me ... that was special to me.

When you came running to the farm house to find me, despite the mistake was mine ... that was special to me.", said Arnav ... his hand still caressing her cheek.

Khushi's mouth open in an O hearing all the things ... never did she thought Arnav would say something like this or more remember these things.

"When you confess that you love me and kiss me that was special to me ... The way you selflessly love me back ... that ... is special to me", said Arnav ... his eyes pouring out the love.

Khushi was looking at him being totally stumped with his words ... her mouth still open in an O and her eyes batting at him slowly.

Arnav smiled at her expression; putting his finger under her chin ... he closes her mouth, "Fly will go in". Tease Arnav.

Khushi launch herself on him ... making him fall on his bump on floor.

"What the ...", he exclaimed as Khushi hug him tightly.

Khushi breaks the hug, "You know ... you don't say much ... but when you do ... you left me speechless".

"That's the magic of Arnav Singh Raizada", said Arnav proudly.

"yeah ... yeah", Khushi roll her eyes.

"By the way Khushi ... do you have a habit of jumping on people whenever you get happy or excited", asked Arnav amused.

"huh ... Arnavji", Khushi pouted cutely as she tried to move away but Arnav wound his arms around her trapping her and then capture her lips in a sweat slow kiss ... savoring the moment.

"Thank you Khushi", said Arnav after breaking the kiss.

"why are you saying thank you?", asked Khushi blushing.

"for accepting a flawed person like me", said Arnav.

"Arnavji ... you're not flawed ... you're perfect", said Khushi as she cupped his face, "I should be thanking you for loving me ... no one ever loved me that much like you do".

Arnav gave his full smile, "same here".

And Khushi hug him back.

"Khushi ... if you glued to me likes this ... I will forget what I said earlier and will take you to bed right now", said Arnav in teasing tone.

Khushi move back, "Haw Arnavji ... you are very shameless".

"Only with you", said Arnav as he nuzzles his nose with hers.

"So shall we go?", asked Arnav.

"Where?", asked Khushi.

"To bed or where less ... you are not planning to move away from me", said Arnav in his husky voice.

Khushi quickly stood up staggering a bit ... Arnav extended his hand to hold her but she move back, turning and run out of bedroom. Arnav chuckled at her reaction ... he stood up and was about to close his laptop when Khushi came back in the room with hurried steps.

Arnav look at her amusingly, but before he could say anything ... Khushi quickly peck him on cheek and run out of room , saying goodnight loudly.

Arnav shakes his head, "Pagal hai ... but cute hai"

--------------------- BACK to DEHLI ... Monday - early morning.

Khushi hurriedly put stuff into her handbag, as she chews on her sandwich at the same time. Then she run out of her room, entering the kitchen ... drinking water.

"Ay sanka devi slow down", Buaji smack her shoulder seeing Khushi drinking water in speed, "What happened to you early morning".

"Uff ho Buaji ... I am getting late for office", said Khushi as she put the glass down and move out of kitchen followed by Buaji.

"Office ... but its an hour early before your usual time", said Buaji confuse.

"yeah but today I have to reach early ... ok baye", said Khushi and give a sound peck on her Buaji's cheeks and hurried out of house.

"Ay be careful sanka devi", Buaji shout after Khushi closing the front door, "Haye re nandkishore ... what will happen of this girl", murmured Buaji as she went to kitchen.

Khushi quickly hail an auto and went towards office. She was very excited to meet Arnav. They had come back to India on Saturday evening ... After getting rid of the jet lag Khushi didn't get much time to talk to Arnav as she wanted to spend ample time with her sister before she go back to Mumbai.

Khushi giggled remembering the shock face of Payal when she told her that Arnav proposed to her and show her the ring ... and then follow the squeals of excitement and laughter. Payal wanted to tell their parents about it but Khushi tell her to wait as she haven't talk about it Arnav as how they are going to tell their families about it ... Payal agreed but ask her do it fast because she won't be able to hide this things in her stomach for much time.

On Sunday night when she talked to Arnav she felt shy ... its not the first time they were talking but now their relation had changed ... their relation had a name now ... Arnav now his finance soon to be husband, the thought itself made butterflies flutter in her stomach. She asked Arnav to come to office early as she wanted to spend time and also wanted to talk something important ... that's why she leave early for office ... she couldn't wait to meet Arnav.

There was an extra bounce in her step while entering the office ... its around 8'o clock ... peon open the office around 7.30 as instructed by Arnav ... because sometime he comes early to office ... although the office timing was 9 am and people started to come from 8.45 ... so she have half an hour to spend with Arnav ... she went straight to his cabin. Khushi pouted sadly when she find it empty. She quickly takes out her cell to call Arnav ... when it buzzed flashing the name of the required person.

"Arnavji ... where are you?", asked Khushi picking the call.

"Hello to you too sweetheart", Arnav chuckled hearing her impatient voice, "I just got to your house ... hurry up and come out, I am waiting".

"Oh no Arnavji ... what are you doing there?", asked Khushi dejected, now she won't be able to spend time with Arnav.

"You said yourself to come office early ... so I am here to pick you", replied Arnav.

"uff ho Arnavji ... I meant it for you to COME OFFICE ... not my home ... I am already in office ... standing in your cabin right now", said Khushi as she smack her forehead.

"Oh damn ... ok I am coming right now", said Arnav and cut the call ... he drove back towards office ... his heart warm up with the thought that Khushi was as excited as he was to spend time together.

Khushi huff in irritation and went out of his cabin ... as its no use now ... till the time Arnav will get here people would already started to come. And she was right ... when Arnav enter the office after 30 minutes, as it was rush hour for school ... so the traffic, there were already many people in the office.

He saw Khushi talking to one of her colleague and sighed that he has to wait till lunch hour ... so he went straight to his cabin. Khushi saw him going up and sighed too, same thought in her mind that now she had to wait for lunch hour to meet him.

-------------------------------------------------------

"what happened to you? Why this sulking face and why did you ask me not to pick you in the morning?", asked NK watching Khushi sitting on her seat sulking. "And why aren't we going to caf for lunch?".

"I wanted to talk to Arnavji ... and come to office early thats why i asked you not to pick me ... but he went to my home to pick me up and now I am waiting for the chance to go up to him", said Khushi as she see around. Lunch time started, she was waiting for the hall to empty so that she can go up.

"Ahan ... something important?", asked NK

Khushi nods her head remembering their last night in Paris, and a smile came up on her lips as she got excited want to tell her best friend about the biggest new of life.

"Arnavji proposed me", said Khushi with a wide smile.

"WHAT? WHEN ... HOW?", NK nearly shouted.

"Shhshhh ... stupid ...", Khushi hush him, "On Friday night after the success party ... he asked me to come to rooftop and he proposed me ...its was so romantic you know ... under the stars ... above the world", said Khushi in a dreamy state.

"Wow ... finally ASR took the step ... so what did uncle aunty said? When is the wedding?", asked NK excitedly.

"Well I haven't tell Amma Baba, only told Payal jiji and now you ... that's what I wanted to talk about Arnavji ... that how and when should we tell our family", said Khushi.

"Ahan ... well I will as soon as you guys can", said NK and Khushi smile.

"Now can we go have something ... I am starving", said NK rubbing his tummy.

"Motu you always hungry and think about food", said Khushi smacking his arm and NK made a pouty face.

"Ok you go in caf ... I will be there after some time", said Khushi getting up from her chair as she saw the coast is clear. She went up to Arnav's cabin. She enters and stopped seeing Arnav stopping few feet away, as he was too about to go out of his cabin.

"Hi ...", said Khushi as she closes the door behind her ... Arnav walks up to her places one hand beside her head on door.

"hey ...", said Arnav in his husky voice.

Both kept looking at each other for few minutes ... then Khushi move forward and hug him, "I missed you".

Arnav chuckled hearing that, "really? Its been just two days".

Khushi move back from hug, "So what? I guess you didn't miss me", she pouted angrily.

"Oh I do ... very much ... but at night ... while sleeping you know", said Arnav as he runs his hand up on her arms.

"Shameless", whisper Khushi as she understood the meaning behind the sentence.

"Only with you", murmur Arnav close to her lips as he captures them softly nibbling them. Khushi wound her arms around his neck and got lost in his kiss. After few seconds they get apart ... Khushi caresses his cheeks and he turns her head to kiss his palm and found empty finger.

"Khushi ... where is the ring?", asked Arnav.

"Um in my purse", replied Khushi.

"What? Why aren't you wearing it?", asked Arnav a bit angrily.

"Because then my colleagues will ask me about it ... you know girls never miss these kinds of things", said Khushi and continued before Arnav could speak, "That's what I wanted to talk to you about ... I told Jiji about it and she wanted to tell Amma Baba ... but I stopped her that I don't how you planned to tell your family ... do you want to tell now or wait for some time".

Arnav smile at her, she always put him first, "How about we tell them today evening?".

"What really?", asked Khushi not believing ... she thought Arnav would want to wait for sometime.

"Yes why not ... I already proposed you ... so why wait more ... it should be good to bring you to my home as soon as possible", said Arnav winking at her.

Khushi blush at the statement and nodded her head, "Did you tell Aman?", asked Khushi.

"um No", replied Arnav.

"Arnavji ... best friend are to be told first you know ... I already told NK about it", said Khushi.

"hmmm", said Arnav.

"Ok I am going for lunch now ... NK wants a treat", said Khushi moving back ... but Arnav grab her left hand.

He kiss the area where he put the ring, "Wear the ring in the evening ... ok".

Khushi nodded and left the cabin.

Arnav to move our after few second and went to Aman's cabin.

Aman had open his cabin door to go to caf, and got surprise to see Arnav standing there.

"ASR ... did you have some work?", asked Aman.

"Um .. yes ... um ... do you remember the place where we use to go back then in starting year of AR", said Arnav.

Aman was startled to hear the question, of course he remember that place, it was a continental caf where they use to go to celebrate whenever AR get the new deal.

"yeah ... Drew's Caf", said Aman not understanding why Arnav is asking this.

"yeah great ... so let go there for lunch then ... my treat", said Arnav as he move forward to the exit.

Aman would have fainted if not for the door he was leaning onto ... he was shocked to hear that Arnav want to go there for lunch ... he haven't been there for years ... what got into Arnav, thought Aman as he followed Arnav ... he did not know that he will getting another shock way to soon.

And for sure Aman's mouth hang open when Arnav told him that he had proposed Khushi when they were waiting for their food to come.

"Aman close you mouth, else fly will go in", said Arnav in a tease as he remembers the scene where he said the same to Khushi.

Aman quickly close his mouth, "Um .. that's great ... um congratulations", said Aman not know what else to say.

"Thanks ... well you're the first one I told about this ... and don't you dare tell someone else about it until I say so", said Arnav pointing a finger to Aman and he quickly nodded his head.

"Well you can tell Lavanya ... she is friend", said Arnav with a smile and Aman just nod his head ... soon their food arrive and they got busy eating ... Arnav talk while eating which was very unlike ASR ... Aman was happy ... way too happy ... to see his friend Arnav coming back ... who got lost behind the mask of ASR. And he knew well who to thank for it.

------------------------- @ RM - Evening

"Arey what are you doing here? Didn't you have the surgery to look after tonight?", asked Anjali getting surprise to see Rahul coming to living room with Akash.

"yeah I do ... but it's after 8 pm ... Arnav called me to come here for some time if I am free ... so I am here now", said Rahul as he bent down to touch Nani's feet.

"Jeetey Rahye", Nani blessed him.

"Chottey asked you? Why?", asked Anjali a bit worried.

"Don't know ... lets wait for Arnav", said Rahul.

Anjali look at Akash who understood what she wanted to ask him, "He will be coming soon Di ... he told me to leave as he had some work to do".

"hmm ok" replied Anjali and then called Hari Prakash to make tea for everyone.

After some time Arnav enter along with Khushi ... where Arnav was confident ... Khushi was nervous. She didn't have to she knew that everyone like her and won't be having problem with them being engaged ... but still she felt nervous how will they react.

Anjali, Rahul, Akash, Nani, Mamaji and Mamiji ... everyone were present there ... having their evening tea when they saw Arnav and Khushi together coming to living room.

"Arey Khushi bitya", said Nani surprise seeing Khushi and Arnav together ... its not that they haven't seen them together but it's the first time that they had come from office together, usually Khushi will come alone from office and Arnav a while later.

"um ... We have to tell you guys something important", said Arnav as he grabs Khushi hand.

Anjali got suspicious looking at her brother ... as he grab Khushi's hand Anjali didn't miss the glitter of shine on her hand and instantly knew what it was, "OH MY GOD ... YOU PROPOSED KHUSHI", Anjali shouted jumping up from the sofa startling everyone else in the room.

Arnav roll his eyes at his Di antics and look sideways at Khushi, "I guess you were right ... girls don't miss these kind of things", whisper to Khushi making her giggle at that.

"um .. yes Di", said Arnav turning to his sister, "I proposed Khushi and she said yes".

Anjali squealed loudly as she moves towards Arnav quickly smashing into him, hugging him.

"Oh I am so happy", said Anjali as she broke the hug. "Finally my brother got some sense".

Everyone else stood up hearing the news, Khushi move towards Nani, bend down to touch her feet but Nani stopped her and hug her.

"Congrats bhai", said Akash as he too hug Arnav followed by Rahul and Mamaji ... Mamiji kissed his forehead getting overwhelmed with the news. Arnav got embarrass a bit with all this.

Anjali went to Khushi and hug her tight, "All thanks to you Khushi ... or else I had nearly loose the hope of seeing my Chottey getting settle in his life". Khushi just nodded her head in response.

"Now there will be grantwa celebration ... hain na sasuma", said mami excitedly, "After all it iz our Arnav bitwas marriage". Nani agreed instantly

"Yes you are right Mamji ... I have thought so much about chottey's marriage and Now I will fulfill all my wishes", said Anjali excitedly.

"yes yes Anjali bitya ... first engagementwa ... then mehndi ... sangeet .. haldi ...", Mamiji was saying when Arnav cut her.

"Oh no no ... no need for all this ... we already are engaged ... so no need for engagement function ... lets plan for marriage only ... why all the fuss of all these function", said Arnav making everyone quite.

"hain no functionwa ... whyz Arnav bitwa", asked Mami ji

"Yes Chottey ... why not ... these are not just function but these are traditions", said Anjali moving to her brother.

"Di ... you know I don't like all these ...lets just stick to the wedding ... simple and small one", said Arnav.

"No ...", said Nani ... Arnav open his mouth to say but Nani stop him, "Your marriage will happen with all the traditions ... in a proper way ... I won't allow it to happen like last time you get married ... just a phone call to tell us that you got married to Tania ... this time everything happen according to traditions following each and every ritual", said Nani sternly.

Arnav got stiffen hearing this ... Anjali and Khushi gasped. Rahul, Akash, Mamaji and Mamiji also got worried with the situation. As they all knew how much Arnav hate Tania that he had asked not to even take her name in this house.

"Nani ...", Anjali went to Nani stopping her to say something further ... Khushi move towards Arnav seeing the pained look on his face ... She quickly grabs his hand which was curled into fist ... indicating that he is trying to control not to lash out on Nani. She squeeze his hand and Arnav look at her and loosen his hand ... Khushi intertwine her fingers with his. Then she turns to Nani.

"Nani ji ... our marriage will happen ... just like you want ... with every ritual ... but please don't make it grand ... I also want it to be on small scale with only family and close friends", said Khushi as she squeezes Arnav's hand.

Nani agreed to this and Anjali smile at Khushi handling the situation, she was glad that Arnav didn't shouted like last time Nani talked about his marriage with Tania ... she was glad that now Khushi is here to handle his brother.

"Come on now ... he have to plan for Arnav bitwa's marraige", Mamaji said trying to divert the situation and soon Mamiji got busy in talking with Anjali and Nani ... Arnav move towards the stairs going up ... Khushi didn't stop him as she knew that he needed some time alone.

"Um Anjali ji ... Arush", asked Khushi coming to Anjali.

"Oh he is sleeping ... Shobahji just left before you came ...oh I forgot in the excitement", said Anjali and move to side table where the baby monitor was place ... she picked it up moving to her ear to hear any sound.

"I guess he is still sleeping", said Anjali hearing no sound from the other end.

"ok .. I will just go see him then", said Khushi and Anjali nodded. Khushi went upstairs.

"you know baby ... soon there will be nothing stopping me from holding you in front of others ... mama is still sorry that she could not hold you when you got hurt back then", said Khushi as he caresses Arush's hair and kiss his tiny hand.

"you have every right now to hold him, whenever ... where ever you want Khushi", said Arnav as he move into room ... he knew that Khushi will defiantly go to Arush, whether he is sleeping or not.

Khushi turn to see Arnav coming towards the bed where Arush was sleeping. Arnav sat opposite to Khushi as he caresses Arush's hair.

"He is your son now", said Arnav holding Khushi's hand with other.

"My son ...", said Khushi looking at Arush caressing his hair just beside where Arnav hand was ... her eyes getting moist as she smiles at Arnav.

TO BE CONTINUED ...

i make it as long as i can ... hope you guys like it ... waiting for you comments now ...

and yeah one thing i want to say ...

few asked about Akash and Payal that why their relation is going so slow ...

well i dont know if you guys read the notes i post after or before the chapter ... i did say few times that there wont be much about Akash and Payal ... i could not think of anything regarding their relation ... what ever idea comes in my mind is related to Arshi ... well i will try to think of something for them ... but still i will say there wont be much about them.