Chapter 81

Next day - Saturday - Around 11 am

Garima sighed as she put the phone back and turn around to face her husband.

"What did Maa ji say?", asked Shashi.

"Well she is angry for sure, she asked if we have choose the boy but when I told her it was Khushi's choice she didn't like it ... said that we don't respect the traditions of our family .. it should be us selecting the boy for her ... and that Khushi might have been having affair with the boy behind our back long before we knew it ... I told her its not like that but she is having her own assumptions about Arnav bitwa and Khushi", said Garima sadly.

Payal who was also present there didn't like what Garima had said, "How can Dadi think like that? Amma whats wrong in selecting your life partner yourself ... And we all know that how Arnavji is ... how much he loves our Khushi ... if not for him we might have lost our Khushi long back ... he saved her life risking his own".

"Yes we all know that Bitya but you know na what thoughts our family have regarding love marriages", said Garima.

"Doing love marriage is not a crime Amma, everyone have the right to choose a partner for him or her ... its us who has to spend the whole with that person not Dadi or others", said Payal in irritation.

"Payal", Shashi gesture her to calm down, "We are not against Khushi's choice or this marriage ... I know that Khushi bitya will be happy only with Arnav ... and I also know that how much these two love each other ... so relax ... no one is stopping this wedding", said Shashi and then he look at his wife, "Have you talked to Jiji?".

"Yes she called me in the morning that she will be going to Arnav bitwa's home today to talk with Deviyani ji about going to Luckhnow", replied Garima.

"Ok lets see then what happens", said Shashi.

"And what if, after all this Dadi refuse to come for the wedding? Then what?", asked Payal and Shashi lost in thoughts with this question ... he loves his mother ... but he loves his daughter too.

Around 1 pm ...

Khushi clicks her tongue in disappointment when Anjali told her that Arnav is at office, working even on weekend. She was thinking to spend some time with him or may be go out with him ... its been a week since their engagement and they didn't get much time to spend, except for the few 2, 3 hours yesterday.

But her mind diverted from Arnav when Buaji started the discussion about how her Dadi wants to meet the groom family and about the Shagun Rasam. Nani and Anjali passed a worried glance when Buaji asked if they can go to Luckhnow for it. Anjali had said the same thing which Khushi had told her Buaji earlier that Arnav would never agree to go to Luckhnow. Buaji got dejected hearing this but Nani assured her that she will talk to Arnav and will try to make him understand. Nani had asked Buaji to stay here for lunch as she wanted to discuss some other things regarding the wedding.

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Akash had just finished his meeting, and he was happy to sign two financers for AR. One was a big event company (who wanted to work with AR sponsoring their events) and other was footwear brand (who wanted AR to use their products in their fashion show or other projects). The paper work was left ... but he will do it later ... right now he wanted to do the thing for which he had agreed to come here (Mumbai) on the first place.

He sends a message to Payal asking to join him for lunch if she was free. 10 minutes later he was grinning like a boy when Payal replied in affirmative.

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"Hey gummy bear how are you? And How is Aunty now?", asked Khushi when NK picked the call.

"Hey Kuku ... I am fine ... mom is getting better", replied NK. His mother was ill so he went to Mumbai on few days leave.

"Is she around? Can I talk?", asked Khushi. "yeah sure .. wait", said NK and after few seconds her mother voice came, "Khushi, how are you?".

"I am fine aunty ... how are you? What have you done to yourself ... you don't take care of yourself hai na?", said Khushi with concerned.

"Na sweety ... nothing like that ... its just that weather is changing so got flu and fever", replied NK's mother.

As its was the month of August ... sometime the weather was rainy and sometimes windy.

She really likes Khushi and just like Garima she too had the wish to see his son settles with her ... but when they two decided to be friends she was little dejected but accepted their relation and she treated Khushi like her daughter as she didn't have one ... only two sons. And when NK introduce Naina to her she was again happy finding another daughter in her.

They talk for few minutes and then NK came back on Phone.

"Hows Neerav doing?", asked Khushi. Neerav was NK's younger brother.

"He's fine .. his new semester will be starting from next month", said NK and then he remembered about the Alumni dinner of their university.

"Hey you're coming for the Alumni dinner right?", said NK.

"Of course I will. I wouldn't miss it", said Khushi.

"Great .. so you should be coming with ASR ... you know everyone in our group was so shocked with your engagement news", said NK.

"yeah I know, I talked to Aashima ... I don't think Arnavji will come, he is very busy ... you know even today he is at office working ... tuch ... here I was thinking to spend time with him or go out but no ... don't know when he will be back", said Khushi in sad tone.

"So what ... you go to office and spend time with him there ... you're his fiance now ... you can force him to go out with you", said NK.

"Wahh ... how come I didn't think of this ... how stupid of me", said Khushi smilingly as she hit her head.

"by the way when will you be coming to office ... or to be Mrs. Arnav Singh Raizada is planning not to work anymore .. haan", said NK in teasing tone.

"its nothing like that ... hopefully I will come to office from Monday ... what about you when will you be back?", said Khushi.

"um .. may be after another week", replied NK ... they talk for few more minutes and then Khushi went for lunch.

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Payal was glad that Akash had asked her for lunch, she too wanted to distract her mind as she was very much irritated on her Dadi. She was always respectful of her but she had seen throughout her childhood how her Dadi has behaved with Khushi and she never liked it.

She reached the restaurant and search for Akash, after 2 minutes she found him sitting at the table near the window.

As Payal move towards him, her mind played the images of the time she spend in Paris. Akash had kept to his words and always behave friendly with her. Unlike his brother, he was of very humble nature. She had seen him at the fashion event dealing with things and people and she really admire his side of handling things/situations with patience. And not to forget the little flutter her heart would experience whenever his hand or arm touch her during their touring of Paris.

She gives him a smile as she sat down opposite to him. After greeting each other, they had placed their order as Akash was feeling hungry. Akash notice that Payal is a little disturbed as she was not counter-answering his talk like she usually do. So he asked about it and Payal first thought not to tell him but then he was Arnav's brother and soon going to be related to Khushi. So she told him about Dadi's demand of Shagun Rasam and that to in Luckhnow.

"What Luckhnow? Bhai will never agree for this ... he hate that city ... where he lost his parents", said Akash with concern.

"I know Khushi said the same when I talked to her yesterday but Dadi is Dadi and thats not all ... today she came to know that Arnavji is of Khushi's choice ... I mean their marriage is not a arranged one .. you know where parents selects a boy for their daughter and she was saying such stupid things about Khushi and Arnavji", said Payal telling him what her mother told them this morning.

"But why she is thinking like that about her own granddaughter?", asked Akash little confuse.

"Because she had never consider Khushi as her own family, she never like Khushi being the adopted child ... she even asked baba to ...", Payal was saying when Akash cut her.

"What Adopted? Khushi is adopted?", said Akash in shock.

"Yeah ... you didn't knew?", said Payal looking at Akash's shocked expression.

Akash shakes his head in negative as he didn't know about this fact. Khushi had only told Anjali and Arnav about it and Anjali had only told Nani about it. And among Khushi's friends only NK and Ashima knew about this.

"Oh Arnavji knows about it ... I thought you knew it too", said Payal.

"But looking at your family, the bonding and love ... it doesn't feel that she is adopted", said Akash still in shock.

"That's because we never thought of her being adopted. Amma, Baba, buaji and I love her very much ... she is the life of our family and home ... we don't talk about this thing ... but now this situation with Dadi ... I am sure all this will be talked again and Khushi will be hurt", said Payal sadly.

Akash held her hand on table, "Don't worry this time she is not alone ... Bhai is with her ... and the way he loves her ... he won't let anyone hurt her".

"Yes I know that ... but as you said that Arnavji won't agree to go to Luckhnow ... then?", asked Payal concerned ... and she experience the same flutter with his touch but she didn't withdrew her hand.

"Lets see ... I am sure Dadi will talk to bhai about this and the matter is related to Khushi so I think there are chances that he will agree", said Akash with a smile tapping Payal's hand and move his hand back and Payal smile but the same time time feel the loss of warmth.

Soon their food came and they talk about other things while having their lunch. After lunch they were heading to the front door of the restaurant when someone called Akash from behind.

"Akash ... you here?", came a lady's voice.

Akash and Payal both turn to see a pretty lady standing 3, 4 feet away from them.

"Hey Sania ... how are you yaar?", said Akash as he and the lady hug each other. "What are you doing here? Is Manav here too?".

"I am good. No I came here for lunch with a friend. Why didn't you tell me that you're in Mumbai?", said Sania hitting his arm.

"Sorry yar ... I was here for work ... I am leaving tomorrow evening", said Akash.

Sania roll her eyes, "Work .. huh ... you're becoming like Arnav bhai". Just then she notice Payal who was looking at them with confuse expression. Akash saw that and introduce Payal with Sania, "this is Payal, my very good friend and Payal this is Sania one of my best friends".

"Hello nice to meet you", said Payal shaking hands with Sania.

"Just good friends?", said Sania wiggling her brows at Akash.

"Sania please ... not here ok", said Akash with a warning look.

"Ok fine ... you know Payal I tried many times to hook him with girls during our uni time ... but he was always shy in these matter ... even now when I try he shies away ... I don't know what will become of him", said Sania and Payal just smile, not feeling good at this.

"I guess I should be going now", said Payal.

"No wait ... I will drop you", said Akash and turn to Sania, "I will call you after reaching my hotel ok".

"Yeah you must ... Sarah was complaining that you haven't called her in past few days ... she thinks that you don't love her anymore.", said Sania.

"Don't worry ... I will come to meet her tomorrow but do tell her that her Mr. A loves her very much", said Akash giving a side hug to Sania and then bid goodbaye.

Akash dropped Payal at her home. Payal didn't know why she wasn't feeling good hearing about Sarah. Does he love someone? but then Sania said he was a shy person and Akash too never mention about any girl whom he likes?

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After lunch Buaji, Mami and Nani got busy in wedding discussions. Anjali and Khushi discuss about the activity week that will be starting from next week in the orphanage. After 2 hours Buaji bid them all good baye. Khushi told Buaji that she wanted to meet Arnav so she will come later. So she left Arush with Anjali and then went to AR.

Arnav finish the meeting with ordering his Marketing and Finance head to make the report on the things which they have discuss in this meeting. Arnav move towards his cabin telling Aman to bring some file which he wants to work on before leaving. He glances at the clock which showed 4.45 pm. He thought that if he could finish the work quickly, he will be free in an hour and then he can go meet Khushi ... but before that he have to buy a gift for her. He really wanted to gift her when she asked about it last night, though he didn't really meant when he said she should gift him. He stares at his laptop screen as he thought what he should gift her.

The door of his cabin open and then closed, "Aman, let's just complete this quick ... I will tell you the quotes and you compare it with the ones in the file ... I want to leave in an hour so lets wrap it up quick ok", said Arnav ... he didn't look away from screen , assuming it to be Aman

"Oh really? How come you think of leaving early today?", came a familiar voice.

Arnav looked up in surprise and found an irritated Khushi standing near the table with her hands folded over chest.

"Khushi ... what are you doing here?", said Arnav as he stood up.

"I came here to remind someone of his promise", said Khushi as she came over to table standing opposite to Arnav. "Someone promised his finace to pamper her but I guess that someone forget about it".

"Ahan ... and who is that someone", said Arnav amusingly as he move around his table now standing close to Khushi.

"Arnav Singh Raizada ... you know him right?", said Khushi keeping a straight face.

"Oh yes I know him right ... he is a man of his words", said Arnav with proud expression.

"Really? It doesn't seem so as he is always busy in work .. work and work .. even on weekend", said Khushi in irritated tone. Arnav's expressions got soften hearing the complaint behind her sentence.

"Khushi ... I know sweet heart ... its just that with AR opening in London ... its more work ... I do want to spend time with you", said Arnav holding her arms.

"Ok fine then we are going out and that too right now ... enough of work for today", said Khushi as she grabs his cars keys from the table and with other hand grabs his hand and move towards the door.

"But Khushi I have just this last work to do ... Aman will ...", Arnav was saying when Khushi turn around, "I have already spoke to Aman and he said that work can be postpone to Monday ... so NO excuses now Mr. Raizada (point a finger towards him) You are going to take me to my choice of place", said Khushi and then resume walking towards the door with Arnav's hand tightly grasped in hers.

"Seriously ... this is your choice of place?", said Arnav in a mock tone.

"Yup", said Khushi with a grin and sprint out of car. Arnav sighed and follow Khushi locking his car.

Khushi took his hand in hers and walk up the road which leads to Gate of India. There were many people around, walking, talking, taking pictures, eating different eatables from various vendors lined up in one side.

"Khushi we could have gone to some restaurant or cafe", said Arnav as he looks around with frown on his face ... he never like such crowded place.

"uffo Arnavji always restaurants ... don't you get fed up with always the same thing ... look around its so much activity here ... you need to go out dude", said Khushi giving him a wide smile ... nudging him with elbow

Arnav cock up his eyebrow at the word "dude" ... but before he could say anything Khushi drag him to one vendor who was selling cotton candies and ice-cream.

"Arnavji look ... cotton candy ... I haven't eaten one since ages", said Khushi excitedly as she asked the man to give two cotton candies.

Khushi smacks Arnav's hand as he place his hand on one cotton candy stick, "What?", said Arnav looking at her confuse.

"Ap nahi kha sakhtey ... yeh bhut metha hai (You cannot eat ... its too sweet)", said Khushi as she takes a big bite of pink fluffy cotton candy.

"Tum ne do liye so I thought one is for me (You bought two so I thought one is for me)", said Arnav.

"Nahi hum donu khayein gey (No ... I will eat both)", said Khushi as she bit into the other one, as she was holding one cotton candy in each hand.

Arnav looks at her amuse as she relishes the soft candy like a child, as they move forward on the long road. Arnav move his hand to tear some candy but Khushi push his hand away with her elbow.

"Bola na bhut metha hai ... ap nahi kha sakhtey (I told you na its too sweet ... you cannot eat it)", said Khushi giving him a glare like a child who don't want to share her candy.

Arnav chuckle as Khushi pace up her speed of eating the cotton candy and within 2, 3 minutes she finished both candies. Arnav stop Khushi taking her hand and smirk, Khushi looked at him confuse as why he is smirking at her, before she could question Arnav lean in quickly and lick a small piece of cotton candy that was stick near her upper lip .. his tongue touching the side of her upper lip in the process.

"ummm ... sahi kaha tumne (Yes you said right)", said Arnav in teasing tone, "waqai mein bhut metha hai (Its really very sweet)".

Khushi's mouth open in an O understanding the hidden message in his sentence. She quickly looks around to see if someone watching them ... but all were busy in their own world. Khushi turn away and move ahead.

"Khushi ... aur metha nahi khana kia? (Khushi ... don't you want to eat more sweet)", Arnav tease moving along with her and glad to see the familiar tint of red on her cheeks.

Khushi attention quickly diverted as she saw gol gappe.

"haye Gol gappe", said Khushi with a clap of her hands and she drag Arnav to the food stall.

Arnav gape at the food display on the stall, "Khushi you are not eating this, its so unhygienic ... we can eat all this in a restaurant also".

"Uff Arnav ji ... there is no fun eating this at restaurant ... the real taste and fun is to eat outside like this ... you know me, jiji and NK have eaten street food so many times in Mumbai ... I really miss the spicy flavor", said Khushi excitedly and asked the man to give 2 plates of gol gappe, 2 plate of chat and 1 bhail Puri.

"Arnavji what will you have?", asked Khushi and Arnav gape at her second time.

"You will eat all that?", asked astonish Arnav.

"of course ... its nothing ... you know I use to eat 4, 5 plates of gol gappe at one time ... me and NK always bet who can eat more", said Khushi as her mouth water seeing the gol gappe.

The man hand her a plate of gol gappe and Arnav look at her astonishing as she started to gulp down gol gappa after gol gappa. Soon Khushi start with the second plate, Arnav just stood there watching her, how she closes her eyes for a moment to relish the taste and then rub her tongue over her lips to lick the extra spicy water, he gulped down seeing the few drops of that spicy water moving down her chin and jaw. Khushi looked at Arnav who was staring at her lips with that expression on his face which clearly shows what his mind might be thinking.

"Arnavji here ... have some", said Khushi extending one gol gappe near his mouth to distract his mind. Not that she mind him kissing her ... but she definitely don't want to be kiss here with so many people around.

"No Khushi .. I don't eat all this", said Arnav moving her hand away.

"Oh come Arnavji ... don't be spoil sport ... eat one please", said Khushi and move the gol gappa again near his mouth.

"Khushi ... I told you na I don't like all this unhygienic food", said Arnav eyeing the food on stall.

"Arnavji ... I bring you here today and you will do what I say ok ... now please open your mouth", said Khushi and press the gol gappa on his lips ... having no chance Arnav open his mouth and takes the gol gappa ... he cough lightly due to sour flavor of the spicy water.

Khushi then make him eat few mores and after that she made him eat chat and bhel puri too. Khushi giggles when everytime Arnav frowns eating the spicy food. After that they move forward, hands in hands ... talking and enjoying each other's company.

After an hour they went to car and on Khushi insistence drove towards the cinema as Khushi wanted to watch a movie. Arnav was in no mood to watch a movie and definitely not an Indian one but again Khushi hush him saying that today was her day and he will do what she asked for ... so half hour later he was sitting inside the cinema with an excited Khushi on his side ... enjoying the movie.

"Seriously you call this a movie ... its so exaggerated ... cheesy lines and that music", said Arnav as they went out of hall when interval came.

"Right you call those things movie which have no action, no songs, no dance, only talking", said Khushi as they move towards food counter.

"Well English movies have actions and songs too but not as exaggerated as hindi movies", said Arnav in mock tone. But Khushi didn't paid any head to it and order for one big size popcorn, a tray of nachos, a pack of dorritos and a large coke.

"Khushi you ate all those gol gapes and chat a while ago and now you will eat all this?", asked Arnav in bewilderment.

"Arnavji see (Khushi move her finger on her stomach dividing it in two halves) this side (point finger to right side) is full now but this side (pointing to left side of her stomach) still have space to be filled", said Khushi with a wide grin and takes her food and went towards the hall.

Arnav shakes his head and move after Khushi with an amuse expression on his face. While Khushi enjoy the movie ... Arnav enjoyed seeing her various expressions while eating all that food.

Later that night Arnav went to sleep by seeing Khushi's pictures which he had taken during their visit to India Gate ... he smile seeing Khushi's various poses ... she surely turns into a child herself with excitement. The smile on her, face and shine in her eyes ... make her more mesmerized. And surprisingly Arnav couldn't help but admit that he who doesn't like crowded place and dislike roadside food had enjoyed every moment of the day ... and it was mainly because of that beautiful women filling his boring life with happiness.

Next day Sunday - Around 3pm

Payal was checking the copies of her students after lunch when she got call from Akash.

"hey Payal ... are you free? I am leaving in 3 hours so I thought to meet before I go", said Akash after greeting her.

"Why? Don't you have someone else to meet?", said Payal trying not to sound rude as she remember that Akash told her friend yesterday that he will meet some Sarah today then why is he calling her. She don't know why it is irking her and not to forget that for the first time in her life she didn't have a proper sleep as her mind was busy thinking of someone.

"Yeah I know ... I have met Sarah, I was just leaving from her place, so I thought I could meet you ... um for a coffee?", said Akash.

"You're with Sarah now?", asked Payal.

"yeah she is in my arms, she is such a sweet heart you know", said Akash sounding happy to Payal.

WHAT?? Her mind screamed ... the girl was in her arms ... how shamless he is that he is telling her this like it's a normal thing.

She was about to bash him when she heard a girls voice, "Who you're talking too ... I will talk too".

"Oh ok baby", said Akash as he give a peck to 4 years old Sarah and then speak in cell "um Payal talk to sarah".

"hello who are you? Are you Mr. A's friend", said Sarah.

Payal was shocked to hear a little girl's voice. Here she was thinking it to be some woman when in real she was a kid. Payal literally smack her hand.

"Um yes ... I am his friend .. and who are you sweety?", said Payal.

"I am Sarah Mr. A's girlfriend", said Sarah and Payal could heard Akash chuckling.

"oh and do you go to school?", asked Payal as a smile appear on her face.

"yes I am in nursery ... what you do?", said sarah ... they talk for a minute or 2 and then Akash told her about the cafe near her home ... the same caf where they had coffee last time when Akash came Mumbai.

Later Payal was feeling embarrass on her thinking, when Akash told her that Sarah was Sania's 4 years old daughter. Sania got married to his other best friend Manav right after graduation; they were all together in university. And Sania move to Mumbai 2 years ago when Manav got transfer to Mumbai branch of his company and he use to meet them often whenever he comes to Mumbai.

She is never going to tell Akash what she thought, decided Payal sipping her coffee.

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"No way .. I am not gona do that", said Khushi pointing a finger at Arnav.

"Oh yes you are, remember today is my day ... and you're gona do whatever I say", said Arnav with a smirk.

"But you know I don't know swimming", said Khushi with a pout as she look anxiously at the big pool.

Today was Sunday, and they were at the farm house. Yesterday night Arnav thought for long how they should spend their time tomorrow and looking at the small pool outside his room, the idea came in his mind of swimming together, but he knew Khushi didn't knew how to swim so it feel interesting to him to teach her.

So after lunch they had dropped Buaji at the station, as she was going to Luckhnow. Yesterday night when Khushi came home, Buaji told her that her mother told that how her Dadi was angry knowing that it was not an arrange marriage, the type which her dadi was expecting to be and how Dadi was assuming things about them. To say that Khushi was angry would be understatement. She burst out saying that she doesn't care what other thinks and if Dadi don't attend her wedding she would care less but Buaji told her that they cannot ignore elders like this, they have to be respected. So Buaji thought to go to Luckhnow to talk to her mother about the whole scenario.

Arnav felt little disturb with the mention of city and got surprise to know that Khushi's relatives live in Luckhnow, which he didn't knew before as he assume that as her family lives in Mumbai, so her rest of relative will also be living there. He wanted to ask but his mind got diverted when Khushi started to question about why they are going to farm house, but as usual Arnav didn't tell her.

After reaching farm house, Khushi spend some time at the pond, looking at colorful fishes as she love that particular part of the front lawn, then Arnav take her to the back side where the big pool was. And when he told her what they were gona do Khushi was shocked and understood why Arnav asked her to wear jeans today.

"well that's why we are here ... I am going to teach you", said Arnav as he takes her hand and takes a step towards the pool when Khushi jerk her hand away.

"Arnavji that's cheating, I don't like swimming, you can't ask me to do that ... I won't ...", Khushi was saying when Arnav cut her.

"Cheating?? ... well I don't like all that junk food but I ate all that street food because you wanted me to try and then that stupid movie ... did I protested?", said Arnav in stern tone ... Khushi opened her mouth to retort but Arnav continued not giving her a chance.

"No na ... I did all that what you asked me ... because you said that was your day and I have to do everything you ask me to so now its your turn ... you will do what I am asking you to do", said Arnav.

"Arnav ji ... why don't understand it ... I am scared of water and its depth", said Khushi taking few steps back ... worry on her face as a distance memory came back to her.

"Well that's the point ... I am gona take your fear away", said Arnav and in a swift movement he carried Khushi in his arms and went towards the pool.

"Arnavji ... No ... Please", Khushi wanted to say but her protest died when Arnav take a step down in pool.

It was a 3 step pool, the first step water was just below his knees, he descends the second step down and water touched his waist, Khushi clutched his shirt more tightly when she felt water touching her hips. Arnav slowly put her down, Khushi clutch on to him tightly with one arm around his waist and other clutching his shirt near shoulder. Arnav hold her close by waist.

"Khushi don't be scared, I am with you", said Arnav softly ... Khushi looked at him with worried eyes.

"I won't let you go", said Arnav assuringly.

Before Khushi could say something, Arnav step down on last step and the water came till his chest.

"Ahhh Arnavji", Khushi yelped loudly and snaked her hands around his neck and tried to push her upwards.

"Khushi relax ... you are not in the depth yet", said Arnav trying not to feel the sensation that her body was making his body feel. He controls his thoughts not to go in other directions.

"Arnavji please let go back na ... I really don't want to do this", said Khushi with fear as she look back with corner of her eyes. If they step ahead they will be in 8ft depth of pool.

"Khushi look I am here na with you ... trust me", said Arnav as he cupped her cheek.

Khushi jerk his hand away, "Look if I get drowned na (she pointed a finger on his face) I am gona kill you", now getting angry.

Arnav chuckled, "Really ...? How you are going to kill me after getting drowned.. I mean then you will be dead yourself .. no?", he teased her.

Khushi mouth open in an O and then she hit his chest 2, 3 times.

"What the", said Arnav with sudden hits.

"Even after that I will not leave you ... my ghost will haunt you forever", said Khushi

"Well I prefer real you to haunt me forever than your ghost", said Arnav as he lovingly peck her nose which was turning cold. Khushi turn her face huffing in irritation. He found her so cute at the moment that he just wanted to kiss her till his heart content but he made his mind focus on the task at hand now.

Arnav tried to move forwards when Khushi shrieked, "No No ... don't ...please".

"Khushi relax ... why are you so afraid? Tell me the reason?", asked Arnav in stern voice.

Khushi look down, "wo um ... I was in school and we cousins went to sea for picnic ... we challenge each other to see who goes most further in the sea, the water was coming above my waist and in next moment my foot slip and I fell in water, I couldn't stand and I thought I would die, I tried to scream but couldn't ... luckily baba saw me as everyone else was busy in the fun ... he rushed to me and pull me up ... since then I am afraid of water ... whenever we go to sea ... I just stick to beach", said Khushi hurriedly.

"hmm ... ok ... well just try for once ... if you can't do it then I promise I will never ask you again", said Arnav and Khushi looked at him uncertain.

"you know cycling right?", asked Arnav and Khushi nodded, "So its just like that ... you have to move your legs to and fro and arms stretch out".

Khushi gulped as Arnav move her to his left side, his left arm wound around her waist and her right arm was wound around his waist.

Arnav peck her cheek, "Just trust me ok, I won't let anything happen to you ever".

Khushi just nod her head, holding his waist tightly.

"Ok now stretch your arm forward, and when we step ahead move your legs to and fro", said Arnav as he hold her waist and then move head, going into the pool.

Khushi move her legs just as he said, but the major part was done by Arnav as he take her body weight on him, he went to the middle of pool and move infront of Khushi, he slowly started to let go of her waist.

"Just keep moving your legs", said Arnav when he saw that Khushi is starting to get panic, "I am here ... I won't let you go".

Khushi had always been a fast learner, and Arnav knew this aspect of her during their Paris fashion show. For the first 2, 3 minutes Khushi stumbles in pool but Arnav guided her and then slowly Khushi started to get hang of it and started enjoying it too. All this while Arnav didn't left her hand. When Arnav saw that she was comfortable moving in water now, he took her to the edge on other side where the pool step stand was.

"Hold on to it and watch me ok", said Arnav and then he started to swim, doing a one lap of pool, telling Khushi how to move legs, arms, your head and how and when to breath. Khushi was looking at him astonishing at how beautifully he was swimming and when he move his head up to take a breath how magnificent he looks ... as the sun rays fell on him making him more appealing. Her hand itch to move his wet hair.

After 10 minutes he came back to Khushi and takes her again in middle of pool and this time he left her hand.

"Arnavji .. no .. no please", said Khushi getting panic and quickly held his hand, Arnav move close to assure her when she hug him close.

"please take me out", said Khushi, "please .. I don't want to do it more".

Arnav also didn't want to push her further, he will take it slow but still he was glad that she tried.

Arnav take her to the steps ... Khushi took a breath of relief when her foot touch the tiles of pool ... without waiting for Arnav she move out of the pool. Arnav too followed her out.

"See it's not that bad", said Arnav rubbing his hair.

"yeah right ... I am not going back in there again", said Khushi her hand on hips.

"but don't deny you enjoyed it .. may be a little ... but still", said Arnav coming close to her.

Khushi smile a little but then next moment she got worried, "haw Arnavji, my clothes are all wet and I don't have other clothes as you didn't tell me what we will be doing .. now what will I do ... how will I go home looking like this".

"Come inside, you change into something ... I will tell the servant to wash and dry our clothes ... it will just take an hour", said Arnav as he held her hand and went inside.

Arnav took Khushi to his bedroom and gave her a full length towel gown and told her to take shower. He grabs his clothes, as some of his clothes are always there in the farm house and went to other room to take shower himself. Khushi was about to wear the towel gown when her eyes fell on Arnav's clothes which was hanging in the bathroom. She takes the white button shirt and runs her hand on it. Feeling mischievous and wondering what will be his reaction after seeing her in his clothes ... she wears the white shirt and black trouser, which was obviously loose on her.

She went out of bathroom and was wiping her long hair with towel, she went to the dressing table and was about to take the lotion bottle when Arnav enter the room.

"Khushi ... do you waa ...", he stop mid- sentence when he saw Khushi standing near dressing table wearing his clothes ...wait a minute HIS clothes?

Khushi turn around and look at Arnav who was staring at her. Khushi smile a little and look down fidgeting with her fingers. Arnav move towards her in a trance, he couldn't help but admire her looking beautiful in his clothes.

He never thought that someone can look so tempting in simples clothes like Khushi was looking right now. Belonging to fashion industry he had seen many hot, sexy models wearing skimpy clothes or even lingeries but he never felt attracted or mesmerized by them that the way he was feeling right now seeing Khushi in his clothes.

"Khushiii ...", he huskily drawled her name standing close to her.

Khushi look at him and then quickly look down as his gaze was so intense that she couldn't look for long feeling shy.

"Why are you wearing my clothes?", asked Arnav in same husky tone.

When Khushi didn't answer for few seconds Arnav snake his hand around her waist and pull her into him.

Khushi gasp with the sudden move and her hand went to his shoulder and look at him so was looking at her with heated gaze.

Arnav leaned in and nuzzle his nose on the side of her neck, inhaling her natural smell.

"hmmm ...", take a deep breath and Khushi shivers when he exhales feeling his hot breath on her neck.

"I never thought someone can look so sexy even fully clothed", murmurs Arnav near her ears and Khushi felt heat risen up her cheeks.

Moving back he pull her chin up, "you didn't tell me why are wearing my clothes .. haan?", asked Arnav.

"um .. wo ... um ... just like that .. um", Khushi replied.

"hmm just like that or you wanted to ...", Arnav left the sentence incomplete.

"Wo I wanted to know if .. if you like me .. in .. um your clothes", said Khushi blushing.

"Then let me tell you sweet heart", said Arnav and capture her lips in a searing kiss that curl her toes ... his tongue went into her mouth in seconds ... their tongues mating and they both got lost tasting each other, nipping and licking each other lips. Arnav hands roam all over her back and Khushi hands roamed in his hair and nape.

Arnav's one hand went inside shirt and he roam his hand on side of her stomach ... Khushi shivers a little feeling his warm hand on her skin. In all this they were smooching each other. Lost in the sensations Arnav hands move upwards and it touch the underside of her breast ... both stiffen realizing that Khushi wasn't wearing a bra.

Her heart started to thud more fast, thinking he will touching her more intimately than before, her stomach felt tight and a familiar ache started between her legs. Arnav's mind alarmed him to stop ... but his heart over rule and he move his hand more up touching the side of her breast fully.

Khushi moan in his mouth clutching his hair in tight group that it felt a little painfull to him but he didn't think much as his mind was clouded on other things. He was about to move his hand forward to cup her mound when his mobile started to ring.

They both broke apart with the noise, breathing heavily. Remembering what was about to happen Khushi stepped back and turn away from Arnav feeling very shy.

Arnav takes his cell out and saw his sister calling, he quickly takes 2, 3 long breaths and calm himself, he could feel his member below going hard.

"yes Di", said Arnav picking the call.

"Chotey where are you two and when will you be back?", asked Anjali.

"We are at farm house Di ... why something happen?", asked Arnav in concern. Khushi too turn to him.

"Um no ... Nani wants to talk to you about something important so try to come back before dinner ok", said Anjali

"Um ok ... anyways we were planning to leave in sometime after having some snacks", replied Arnav.

"ok good ... drive safe .. take care", said Anjali and cut the call.

Khushi gesture her head asking what Anjali said.

"Nani wants to talk to me about something important ... so Di wants us to come before dinner", said Arnav.

Khushi got alerted as she knew what Nani wanted to talk to him about.

"Khushi ... you ok?", asked Arnav seeing her lost in thoughts, wondering If she is upset or something with what he was about to do.

Khushi shakes her head but didn't look at him. Arnav didn't want her to feel uncomfortable so he asked, "You want to eat something?".

"Um No ... just want some tea", said Khushi giving a small smile to him and then quickly avert her eyes.

"ok I will ask Ram baba", said Arnav went out of the room thinking to ask her later what's bothering her.

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

"What did he said Anjali bitya?", asked Nani who was sitting on her bed.

"They will be leaving for here after sometime", said Anjali sitting in chair opposite Nani.

"ok good", said Nani.

"Nani I don't think Chotey will agree to go Luckhnow ... we all know how he feels about that place ... he never went back to that city after those trials with Chacha ji", said Anjali worriedly.

"I know that Anjali Bitya ... but we have to make him understand that this time its not about him or his past ... its about Khushi bitya. Its nothing wrong what Khushi's dadi had asked. I was too happy with Chotey's decision of marrying Khushi bitya that even it slip my mind about the Shagun part ... I guess we didn't except Chotey to agree for engagement or even marriage for that matter ... I nearly lost hope to see him settle down properly until Khushi bitya came", said Nani.

"You're right Nani ... did you notice how Chotey is changing ... he is smiling more and he is more at ease with things and people around him than before", said Anjali.

"yes bitya I noticed ... do you remember how Khushi bitya make Chotey came out on Holi and the way he applied color on her? (Anjali nodded her head) ... I knew that Khushi bitya is affecting him and then my suspicious got confirm when Akash told us how Khushi bitya went to office after the fire incident and how calmly Arnav bitwa handle the situation ... because the old Arnav Singh Raizada would never be this calm after such incidents", said Nani.

"Yes and not to forget how Chotey started to be with Arush ... I know its Khushi who make him realized about his son", said Anjali.

"And remember that day when Chotey took Arush bitwa to Khushi's bitya home", said Nani with a smile.

"yeah how can I forget ... before that I have to work hard convincing him to let me take Arush even to Orphanage and here he not just took him to her house but he even brought him to Paris", said Anjali in not believing tone, "I was really shocked when he called me to pack Arush's things Nani".

"And not to forget the most important thing that it was Khushi bitya who make Chotey come to your parents death anniversary pooja this year", said Nani a bit sadly.

"yes nani how can I forget that day ... I was so happy when chotey came that day", said Anjali. "And you know Nani ... Khushi told me that Chotey talked to her about Mama and all the things happen that day 14 years ago".

"yes I know ... It was important for Chotey to open up his feelings and emotions thats why I had told Khushi bitya everything so that she will able to understand Chotey more deeply and also console him", said Nani ... "And I know if anyone could bring light and happiness back in his life it will be only Khushi bitya".

"yes you're right Nani ... no doubht in that", said Anjali.

"And I know Chotey will not agree to go Luckhnow easily but he will do it for Khushi Bitya", said Nani smilingly.

"Yeah now we have Khushi to convince him", said Anjali giggling and Nani smile too.

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

Arnav looked at Khushi with concern, who seems to be in thoughts looking out of window. Its been 20 minutes that they have left farm house and Khushi didn't talk much ... it was not like her ... she use to talk about everything and anything and its not in her nature to be quite for long ... which she only do when she is upset or there is some serious matter and he knew that well now.

Arnav waiting for her to speak but when she didn't he held her hand and call her name, "Khushi ..".

Khushi looked at him. "Are you alright?", asked Arnav. Khushi give him a smile, "yes Arnavji".

"Then why are you so quite?", asked Arnav.

"um just feeling a bit tired", said Khushi passing him a small smile, she was thinking what will be his reaction when Nani will tell him about going to luckhnow ... she knew he will be angry ... it doesn't matter to her if her Dadi attend her wedding or not but it does matter to her parents, specially her baba as she was his mother ... and she knew Arnav's Nani is a lady of traditions as when Buaji told her about the Shagun part she was also saying that it should be done.

"Are you uncomfortable with what happen in bedroom? If you don't want to things move forward you can tell me Khushi ... I will ..", he was saying when Khushi cut him.

"no Arnavji ... its not. I ... I don't mind all that", said Khushi and avert her eyes ... red tint starting to appear on her cheeks ... she does feel shy but at the same time feel excited too and how can she be uncomfortable when she was the one who wanted to take things to the next level in Paris.

"Oh so you don't mind?", asked Arnav teasingly. Khushi nods her head still not looking at him.

"And you won't mind if I do something more right? Moving more forward", asked Arnav again.

Khushi blush more understanding his meaning and surprised Arnav with nodding her head.

Arnav held her hand and bring near to his lips, placing a peck, "I am glad to know that but I want you to know that I will never do something for which you're not comfortable".

Khushi look at him with love, where she always thinks of him before everything ... she knew he does the same ... though he don't show it openly like she do ... but now he started to.

"I know that Arnavji", said Khushi with a shy smile and Arnav smile back at her ... the rest of the journey was a pleasant one ... now that Khushi started to talk.

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

"What Luckhnow? ... how can you even ask me to go that place where ... where", said Arnav in anger ... he fisted his hand to control ... he couldn't completed his sentence "where he lost his mother".

They were back home half hour before and now all were sitting in the living room.

"Arnav bitwa calm down", said Mamaji as he grabs his arm and makes him sit beside him again, when Nani told him that Khushi's dadi wanted to meet the groom's family and also that they haven't done the rasam of Shagun. Arnav wasn't ready for it, but when Nani mention that Khushi's buaji requested for it he agreed but when Nani mention that they have to go Luckhnow for it he stood up in anger.

"First listen to whole thing what Maa ji has to say bitwa", said Mamaji.

Khushi and Anjali was sitting on the opposite sofa, Arush was laying in Khushi's arm oblivious to his surrounding as he was busy drinking his milk.

Arnav sit down and looked at Khushi with anger as if complaining her, why she didn't tell him about it.

"I know bitwa you hate that place, but this time its not about you or the past. Its about Khushi bitya and her family and also about building future relationship. When two people get marries, its not only them who bounds together but two families also bounds together. I should have thought about it but in happiness of you seeing finally agree to get married I forget about this and we proceed for engagement as you wanted your relationship to be official soon", said Nani softly.

Arnav was little surprise at his Nani's tone, usually whenever he gets or shows his anger, Nani also responed in the same stern tone ... but this time was different.

"And in all this they didn't get the time to inform about your engagement to Her Dadi and relatives, as they have to prepare for function and traveling on short notice, its wrong on our part and Madhumati ji also agrees with it, also we had to keep this news under wrap because of media. But now they all have seen your picture and news in the newspaper so being angry is their right ... because if I were in their place I will be angry too. But all this is happen now ... so just forget it ... what we can do to mend ... is to go to Luckhnow, meet them and do the rasam of Shagun", said Nani.

"But why Luckhnow, we can do this here or even Mumbai ... I can arrange for their travel and stay if they have any problem regarding it", said Arnav in irritating tone.

"Yes we can, but it will not seem good asking them to come here or Mumbai when the tradition is that groom family goes to meet the bride family", said Nani.

Arnav open his mouth to retort but Nani gesture with her hand to stop.

"Also if we go there to meet them, they will feel happy that we take their request serious and it will show that we honor them", said Nani.

Arnav didn't answer as he didn't like all this, it feels rubbish to him to demand such things.

"Look bitwa its only for 2, 3 days, we will go there ... meet them ... do Shagun rasam and come back. Don't think much on Luckhnow ... take it just like some other place", said Mamiji as she was too worried about Arnav ... he was like her own son.

"I want you to think on it with cool mind. Remember one thing, to make relationships stronger we sometimes have to compromise even on those things which we don't want to", said Nani.

Anjali and Khushi was constantly looking at Arnav gauging his reaction which clearly seems to be anger. Arnav stood up and move towards the stairs without giving any reply. He climbs up hurriedly and went to his room. They all heard the loud bang of door.

Arush had finished his drink so Khushi hand him to Anjali and was about to move towards the stair when Nani stopped her, "Khushi bitya not now ... give Arnav bitwa some time to cool down, he might not clearly understand the situation with his anger".

Khushi nodded and went back to sofa, she took Arush from Anjali and went upstair to Anjali room.

"Nani, why did you stop Khushi ... she would have convinced Chotey", said Anjali.

"Yes I know she will but this matter is sensitive to him and I really want him to understand things on his own because Khushi bitya might not be here every time to convince him Anjali bitya", said Nani and Anjali hoped that Arnav agrees.

An hour later Khushi couldn't help herself and wanted to talk to Arnav. So she went to his room after making sure that Arush is ok with Anjali. She found Arnav sitting at the pool side. Arnav saw Khushi standing beside him, he move back on chair and Khushi sit on the table in front of him.

Khushi takes his hand in her, "Arnavji are you upset with me?", asked Khushi with concern.

"Why didn't you tell me about this?", said Arnav looking into the space.

"Because I knew you won't agree to go to Luckhnow, I told Buaji too. But she wanted to talk to Nani ji about it. I also said the same that we can do it in Mumbai. But Buaji said if you and your family go to Luckhnow it will show that we honor her. As my Dadi is too traditional in these things and not to forget very conservative too ... she is not like your Nani who is traditional but at the same time she had adapted to young generation trends.", said Khushi with a smile.

"What about wedding? What if your Dadi ask for the wedding to be held in Luckhnow? Then what?", said Arnav in stern tone, "I do not want our wedding to happen in that city."

"Me neither Arnavji ... that's why Buaji went there to talk to Dadi. She said that if we honor her say by going to Lucknow Buaji will make her realize that and make her agree to come to Mumbai or Delhi for wedding", said Khushi.

"Well I don't think so, if your Dadi can be so adamant about this Shagun thing ... she can do it later with the wedding", said Arnav.

"Then I don't care ... if she don't want to come then don't", said Khushi shrugging her shoulder.

Arnav was surprise at her reaction, he knew that Khushi is the person who always respected elders.

"Khushi ... you're saying this? How .. I mean you don't like your Dadi?", asked Arnav guessing the situation.

"She don't like me either", said Khushi with a sad smile.

"Khushi ...", Arnav move forward and cup her cheek, Khushi press her face more into his palm. "why?".

"Because I am adopted, I am not her blood", said Khushi sadly. "She was never happy with Baba's decision of adopting me. She asked Baba to take me back to the place from where he brought me ... but Baba didn't. I don't know why but he loved very much even then when it was hardly few days with him", said Khushi sadly remembering her childhood.

Arnav caresses his cheek with her thumb, silently asking her to continue.

"My Baba side of family is typical traditional family ... you know conservative type where girls are not allowed to study beyond school, marraiges fix by elders ... girls has no say in it etc. My Baba was the only odd one out in his family. Me and Jiji love to study and wanted to do higher education ... that's the other thing which my Dadi didn't like. She use to taunt me even if I make the smallest mistake ... time to time she make me realize that I am not her blood. That I am adopted, not part of her family. Besides Amma, Baba and jiji there was only Buaji in that family who love me like her own. Baba saw how all this was affecting my personality as I became more quiet and didn't play much. So he took the decision to move to other city and with help of one of his friend we shifted to Mumbai. Dadi was not happy with this decision but Baba knew that it was necessary to get rid of daily arguments. And Dadi blame me for that too. Her behavior didn't change with time either whenever we visited them during vacations. So I don't even think about them all ... that's fine if they don't like me. I have my Amma, Baba, Buaji and Jiji ... they are enough for me", said Khushi as her eyes got teary.

Arnav make her sit in his lap, her back was touching his front, he didn't say anything but held her tenderly.

"What about your Nana Nani?", asked Arnav after few seconds.

"Um they are not alive ... they died some 8, 9 years ago", replied Khushi.

"oh ok", said Arnav.

"it's ok Arnavji if you don't want to go, I will talk to Baba ... he will talk to Dadi", said Khushi.

"No need, I will go", said Arnav.

Khushi turn back to face him, surprise and shock at his answer, "Arnavji?".

Arnav give a smile to her, "Only for you".

"You don't have to Arnavji", said Khushi cupping his cheek. "Please ..."

"Yes I do ... remember I said that we will do all the rituals and according to traditions. So just like Nani said we didn't to the rasam of Shagun ... so we will do it now ... and beside its only for 2, 3 days ... so its ok", said Arnav.

"you sure na", said Khushi. Arnav give a peck on her lips, "Yes".

"Oh Arnavji", Khushi hug him tightly. "Thank you".

"Your welcome", said Arnav as he rubs her back ... its not about Rasam ... Arnav wanted to show her Dadi and others that how special Khushi is. He couldn't help but feel angry on her Dadi for treating her badly.

TO BE CONTINUED ...

Looking forward to your comments 😳