Chapter 96

Next day Wednesday @ Gupta House - Around 8 pm

Payal looked at Akash and her father, who were busy conversing about some news that was going on TV. She was worried that Akash may ask Shashi about the loan. She didn't tell her father that she had met Akash in the bank. She didn't want to make him worry and she knew if her father came to know about it he may feel bad, that the Raizadas knows and they may extend their help in financial matter. She knows well that her father is very self-respected in these matters, and she is too. That's why she declined immediately when Akash tried to offer help, it angered her somewhere that if they are not rich like them it doesn't mean that they cannot face the problems life throw at them.

But now she was feeling bad about it, because since the time Akash had come here for dinner, he hadn't talk to her except greeting her at the door. He didn't even throw his usual glances at her, which she was used to by now.

This was also noticed by Shashi, that now Payal was throwing glances towards Akash and he had only looked once or twice in her direction, have something happened?, he thought.

"Payal Bitya, are you done?", came Garima's voice from kitchen.

Payal came back from her thoughts and look at table, she was arranging cutlery on it.

"Yes Amma, done!", said Payal and went to Kitchen to help her mother. Khushi came down with Arush; she went up to change his diaper.

"Chaaa", Arush exclaimed as he saw Akash, who stood up with a smile and move towards Khushi.

"Hows my champ?", asked Akash ruffling Arush's hair.

"Choc choc", said Arush as he extends his hand towards Akash.

"Oh man, sorry champ I forgot to bring you chocolates", said Akash as he remember that he indeed forget to bring chocolate. Akash would give chocolate to Arush every now and then. Arush loves the taste of it and he knew that only his Chachu brings them for him.

"Choc choc doh", said Arush again as he tap Akash on face.

"Baby, no. Chachu forgets na, he will bring next time", said Khushi.

"Piissh (Promise)", said Arush.

"Yes promise", said Akash as he took Arush in his arms and went to sofa. Payal smiled looking at the scene, Arush and Akash playing.

"Jiji, you sit down, I will bring the rest of dishes", said Khushi as she went into kitchen.

Garima then called Shashi and Akash to come. They all started to have dinner. Arush was in Khushi's lap. She was eating her dinner and also making Arush eat some rice. Shashi notice that Akash didn't ask any question to Payal or start conversation like last time, he only answered when Payal asked him one thing or two.

After dinner Garima asked Akash to stay back for a while for coffee or tea but he denied politely saying that he had early morning flight to catch so he should leave. Khushi move ahead to drop him at the front door, but Shashi told her to help her mother and asked Payal to do that as he could guess that she wanted to talk to him.

Payal and Akash went out into the small porch, "Akashji, I want to apologize", said Payal.

Akash was about to open the front gate but stopped listening to this, he turned to her.

"I know you must be upset about my behavior, I was tensed and didn't want anyone to know about loan", said Payal.

"Its ok Payal", said Akash looking into her eyes which widened a bit at the way he addresses her without ji'.

"I was more of disappointed actually then being upset. I thought we are friends now as we have gone past the awkwardness. I didn't want to make you feel low that you are not rich like us and can't handle problems. All I wanted was to offer my help being a friend. But I guess I was wrong, we are not friends", said Akash in serious tone.

Payal shakes her head, "No its not like that, we are friends".

"No Payal, if we were friends you would have picked up my calls that night. You messaged me you didn't wana talk. Fine by me, I agree to let friends have their personal space, but you could have talk to me later but you didn't. I am kind of tired with your mixed behavior. One side you clearly told me you don't want a friendship, because these are not your thoughts, then on other side you go out on lunch with me, share your daily routine on phone with me and here again you behave as you don't want to do anything with me. If you think that I am after you for some reasons then you are wrong. Being friends doesn't mean that I have some other intentions or I will propose you at some point. I wanted to be friends with you because I liked you as a person; it doesn't mean I will ask for a relationship in return. Our siblings are getting married and soon our family will be bonded, I didn't want others to feel the awkwardness between us, which i felt and that was my reason for extending the hand of friendship. I don't know why, who and what made you this closed up but you cannot put other person in dilemma because of it. Decide and be clear what you want", said Akash, his voice stern and expression serious.

He looked at her surprised face for few seconds and then went out. Payal stood there astonished, as it was the first time that she had seen Akash being that serious with her, she can feel the hint of anger in his words. She moves back inside, with many thoughts circling her mind.

Akash sit in his car and drove from there. He was kind of irritated now, he really liked Payal and wanted to be friends be her. One reason was this and other was that he had seen the awkwardness in her while he converse with her when she came to Dehli during Anjali's wedding. He wanted to be cordial with her and remove that awkwardness so that their siblings won't feel it. Plus he really liked her personality and the way she tackles things life throw at her, it was nothing more or is it?

Next Day - Thursday @ Night around 2 am ...

Khushi yawned as she looked at her cell phone, waiting for Arnav's message. It had been days that she didn't see him, although they did talk on phone and through messages. But today she wanted to have skype chat with him. Arnav told her that he will be late today as he had few meetings, following a dinner and they can do video chat tomorrow. But she insisted that she will wait and want to do it tonight. She was missing him a lot and wants to see him.

When her eyes just about to droop she felt her cell vibrated. She checked and got happy. She quickly went to her study table, logged into her Skype and waited for Arnav.

Few seconds later she saw him calling her and quickly pressed the green button. Arnav's face came on her screen. Her heart picked up a beat seeing his handsome face after days. His hair was slightly wet from front and face looked tired. Still there was a smile on his face when he said HI in his deep husky voice.

"Hh ..hh . ii", Khushi stammers a bit.

"What happened?", asked Arnav amused, he was happy to see her face and could see her cheeks having a faint pink tint even in the less yellow light of table lamp placed on her table. She faced it towards her so that Arnav could see her properly.

"Nothing, I am fine. But you don't look so. Tired?", said Khushi as she rubs her palms. It was the first time she was having video chat with him and she felt like a teenager talking to her secret boyfriend.

"What are you thinking?", asked Arnav as he saw her biting her lower lip and shy expression. Khushi giggles a little as she shared her thought.

"Ahaan, you havent done it before?", asked Arnav little surprised.

"Arnavji, if you remember I told you that I did not have a boyfriend and I have never done that kind of stuff before with anyone, you were my first", said Khushi little embarrass, little shy.

"Well I am glad it's like that, but seriously Khushi you never liked someone before? A neighbor or a classmate in college?", asked Arnav being curious, "A pretty girl like you, I am sure you have many admirers".

"Um nope, there are few who asked me out but I didn't like them in that sense and I am not THAT pretty that people will like me that much", said Khushi with a nervous laugh.

"Ask me how beautiful you are Khushi, inside out", said Arnav little in anger, "Never say that again".

"Ok ok fine, don't get angry", said Khushi as she saw his serious expression, "Tell me how's your work going? Are you done? You said you will be there only for 2-3 days".

"Its going fine, it will be over tomorrow I guess, just few things left", said Arnav as he put both his hands at the back of his head leaning against the bed.

"Oh that means you can come here on Saturday?", asked Khushi hopefully.

"Not sure, why?", said Arnav.

"Its my Alumni dinner at the university and my friends had been asking me to ask you to come there", said Khushi.

"Oh, your friends want. Not you?", asked Arnav.

"No, I want too", said Khushi quickly. Arnav smirk and Khushi pouted, "So will you come please".

"Khushi I don't think I can, I am not sure if everything will get over tomorrow, plus the flight is about 7-8 hours, if I do try my best, I will reach there late night, and by then your alumni dinner will be over", said Arnav as he put his hands back on his sides.

"Please Arnavji, come na, I want to introduce you to everyone there, my friends and teachers. There were girls who had always teased me that I cannot get a good boyfriend. I want to show them I have the best. THE ASR", said Khushi as she made a gesture with hand in air for his name.

Arnav chuckled, "Ok so you want me to come there to show off, not that you want me too".

"Its not that, whats the harm in little show off, don't tell me you haven't done that before, remember I have seen all your interviews", said Khushi.

"Ahan, yeah I remember that clearly", said Arnav as he winked at her.

Khushi lowered her eyes at that and then look up, "Please come, I miss you a lot, it feels like ages that I have met you, touch you ... feel you", said Khushi as her voice got sad and her fingers touched his face on the screen.

"Khushi, sweetheart", said Arnav as he sit straight up, he could see the shine of tear in her eyes.

Khushi pressed her lips together to stop her from crying, her heart yearning for him, "I .. I am fine."

"Yeah I can see that", said Arnav in mock tone, "I miss you too Khushi, you don't know how I am tolerating this distance between us".

"Please come here, if not for alumni then please for me, I want to be in your arms, please", said Khushi as her voice choked and a tear roll down. She quickly stood up and turns away.

"Khushi ... Khushi .. look at me please", said Arnav as he watched her shoulder shakes. "Khushiii...", came Arnav's loud voice, Khushi quickly went back to her laptop and throw a glance towards bed.

"Arnavji, shhshh Arush is sleeping", said Khushi.

"I don't care dammit, you are crying", said Arnav as he run a hand through his hair, "Dammit!!"

"Arnavji, I am fine. Sorry about that, I am just being emotional. I understand your work. Please don't be upset", said Khushi quickly wiping her tears and composing herself.

"I hate it when you cry because of me, I wish I could just fly over to you. Dammit! Why I agree in the first place for the wedding date to be that late. If I hadn't, we would be married by now and together", said Arnav exasperated.

"Arnavji please, its fine, I am ok", said Khushi.

"Khushi look I will wind up my work tomorrow as soon as I can and will come there ok", said Arnav taking a deep breath.

"No Arnavji, you will not hurry with your work. Take your time. Come here when you're finish with it ok", said Khushi in warning tone.

"But Khushi, I want too and ...", Arnav was saying when Khushi cut him, "No But, I will feel bad if you will do this, so please don't. I do not want to feel guilty, that for me you have neglected your work", said Khushi.

"Khushi I never neglect my work you know", said Arnav slightly annoyed.

"I know and that's what I admire in you most", said Khushi with a smile, "So come here only when you finish your work. Ok", said Khushi and Arnav nodded his head.

They talk for some more time and then Khushi asked him to go to sleep. It was evident from his face that he didn't want to and he was worried for her but Khushi assured him that its fine and she needs him to sleep because she don't want to effect his health. Arnav agree and bid her goodbye giving her a flying kiss making Khushi blush. He asked her to do the same but she was shy and denied. Arnav warn her that he will collect all his kisses when he will come there.

Khushi went to bed and few tears came out, she wiped them quickly and watches Arnav's pictures on her cell phone, she was really missing him a lot and was craving for his warm embrace. She realize how Arnav must be feeling when he used to say that he craves for her presence, she understood now how it is like to long for someone.

1^st September - Saturday Evening - Around 6pm...

"So is he coming?", asked Aashima as she applied eyeliner. She had come to Khushi's house to get ready so they can go together to their university.

"No, Aashima I told you he is a busy man, he said he would try but I asked him not to leave his work for me. It feels wrong to me", said Khushi.

"Come on Khushi, you guys are engaged and if he had said he would try then you should have agreed with him", said Aashima as she put her hands on her hip.

"I would never do that, I know what his work means to him. I know about his struggles and I would never come between his successes", said Khushi as she put on her earrings.

"Oh come on Khushi, its not like that", said Aashima.

"Leave it Aashi, I told him to complete his work and then come. Don't worry you will get to meet him next week I promise", said Khushi as she smiled at her friend.

"Yeah I hope so too", said Aashima and look closely at her friend, "Are you in touch with Anand?".

"He did call or messaged me few times but I told him that I don't him to and I guess he havent't since 1-2 months", said Khushi her expression thoughtful.

"After your engagement more likely ... he called me when he saw the news and he was angry asking me about it", said Aashima, "That guy was really into you".

"Yeah I know that, but it's not my fault I told him many times that I do not want to do anything with him. I was polite in it and even NK warned him", said Khushi.

"He will be there tonight you know", said Aashima little worried.

"Don't worry, NK will be there. He will handle him if he tried to be smart with me", said Khushi as she turn to Aashim, "How do I look", as Khushi twirl.

"Hot", said Aashima with a wink and Khushi rolled her eyes.

"I can't wait to see Maya's expression seeing you in this dress, ASR's personal design, she will burn up in jealousy", said Aashima as she touch the tiny lace flower over Khushi's light peach color evening gown.

(Khushi's dress)

Aashima was in awe of Khushi's dress when she saw her coming out for washroom in it, she really loved the dress and was shocked when Khushi told him that is was designed by ASR.

"Yup, its his design. He gifted me", Khushi had said with pride.

"That's what I was thinking that we usually don't see that kind of design in the market and was going to ask you where did you get that", Aashima had said, "it's gorgeous".

"Yeah I too want to meet her specially, all years in university she teased me about being highly popular herself and sophisticated. I want to see her face, now she knows I am engaged to the ASR", said Khushi wiggling her eyebrows.

Just then her cell ringed, it was NK. Who was downstairs waiting in his car, "Come lets go, NK is here", said Khushi and picked up her clutch and move out.

Khushi and Aashima bid goodbye to Khushi's parents and Payal.

"Jiji call me if he gets cranky ok, I will come back", said Khushi standing at the front door.

"Don't worry about him Khushi, I will handle him, now go and enjoy your night ok", said Payal as she push Khushi out. She waved her hand as Khushi got inside the car with Aashima.

"Hi girls, how are you doing?", said Naina.

"Great, how about you? I am glad you can make it", said Khushi.

"I have too or else whose gona watch over him", said Naina giving a glare to NK.

"Oh come on babe, you gotta trust me. Khushi tell her I am an innocent and a gentleman", said NK as he started the car.

"Yeah sure, with the amount of flirting you do", said Aashima rolling her eyes.

"Oh you shut up", said NK. "NK, be nice", warned Naina.

"Yes mam", said NK bowing her head towards Naina who smacked his shoulder. NK drove from there, the banter going on between Aashima and NK throughout the journey.

Half hour later they reach the university, NK stopped the car near the front lawn, "You girls go, I will come after parking the car, the party is in auditorium 1", said NK.

"We know dumbo", said Aashima.

"Get your ass out of my car then", said NK annoyed

"NK ...", said Naina in warning as she stepped out.

"Relax Naina, they are like this since the start. They just show like fighting, in real they are friends", said Khushi.

"Yeah I hope so", said Naina, "You go Khushi, I will come with NK".

"Ok, said Khushi and move ahead on the bricked path leading towards Auditorium. She took out her cell phone from her clutch and send message to Arnav.

"Hey Khushi", Khushi heard her name and look up to see Anand standing in front of her.

Oh not now, Khushi groaned inwardly but didn't show it on her face,"Hey Anand, how are you?", said Khushi.

"I am good and you are looking wow, so gorgeous", said Anand as he move close to her, he had always liked Khushi and wanted to be her friend and more than friends. But Khushi never give him the chance ... infact she denied him straight. It hurt his manly ego, but he couldn't do anything else as she moved to Dehli after graduation and then her engagement with none other the great ASR made him burn in envy.

"Thanks", Khushi smile at his compliment.

"So you're engaged and here we thought that you have no zone line etched out for boys", said Anand in mock tone.

"Yes I am engage, now if you will excuse me I want to go to my friends", said Khushi and step aside to move but Anand caught her hand, "Whats the hurry Khushi, we have met after so long, spend some time with me, I am also your friend".

"Leave my hand this instant", said Khushi in anger as she twisted her hand to get it out of his grip, "You are not my friend".

"Because you never gave me the chance to be ... what you think of ...", Anand was saying when someone grab his collar from back and jerk him away from Khushi.

"Step aside now", said the man in black suite, his eyes dangerous looking at Anand.

"Hey who are you to tell me what to do", said Anand in anger.

Khushi was confused for the man's interference, though he seemed familiar to her.

"You don't want to know who I am, now step aside and don't you dare go near her", said the man.

"Are you threatening me? what you will you do haan", said Anand as he pushed the man's shoulder. The man quickly grabs his hand and twisted his arm making Anand turned and gasped in pain.

"Hey let go", said Khushi.

"Mam he is misbehaving with you", said Man in composed tone.

"I said let him go", said Khushi in anger. The man let go of Anand's hand and step back.

Anand jerk his arm, "Another one of your mysterious men eh?", mocked Anand.

The man move ahead, "If you say another word, you will regret it", his voice was dangerous.

"I will see you soon", said Anand giving an angry look to the man and Khushi and move ahead towards party hall.

"What was that and who are you, I think I saw you somewhere", said Khushi as she tried to remember.

"I am Raj mam, your guard", said Raj in polite tone.

"Ohh ... but what are you doing here? Wait a minute, my guard, whats that mean?", asked Khushi surprised.

"Mam, I am appointed for your safety by ASR, he strictly order me to watch over you", said Raj.

"He whaat?", Khushi got shocked and annoyed, "You please go, there is no need. I can take care of myself".

"I am sure Mam you can but I have strict order from ASR, not to left sight of you", said Raj.

Khushi opened her mouth to retort when she heard Aashima calling her. She turned and saw her coming to her.

"Hey Khushi whats happening, I just saw Anand with you. Did he do something?", said Aashima and then she saw Raj, "Who's he?".

"Mam, you should go inside", said Raj and move back few steps.

Khushi grab Aashima's hand and move towards party hall. "Khushi you didn't tell me who was he?", asked Aashima.

"My bodyguard", said Khushi annoyed and Aashima squealed in excitement.

(Auditorium decor)

Khushi was in awe of the arrangement. The team who was responsible for the party had done a marvelous job, they decorate the hall in winter theme, white dance floor in middle with stage at one end and a small bar at another. On other both sides were tables with chair. Few people were sitting and few were standing. What Khushi liked the most was the crystal flocked tree in middle of bar and snowy scenery all around.

"Wow, this is beautiful", said Khushi.

"yeah tell me that", said Aashima as she took Khushi to their group of friends. Divya and Poonam gush over Khushi's dress and demanded to have a dress, when Aashima told them it was from ASR's personal collection.

Soon Dean went on stage and made a little speech welcoming fellow students, old students and teachers. Then he asked the band to start playing and told the students to join. The dinner will start in 2 hours.

Khushi greeted her senior fellows and teachers. Many had congratulated her on her engagement. Her dean and few fellow students asked if ASR will come, to which she politely denied. Few girls had asked about her dress and she proudly tells them it was ASR's personal design and watches their shocked faces with glee.

After some time she went to the bar to have a drink, "Oh well well ... look who is here", Khushi heard a voice from behind.

Khushi turned and saw Maya with her group of friends, "Oh Hello Mayaji", said Khushi stressing on ji' part. Maya twisted her mouth, "You haven't change, still with old thinking, I thought now you are engaged to ASR you would have learned some manners", mocked Maya.

"I didn't need to, you know Arnav loves me as I am", said Khushi with pride as she saw the jealousy in Maya and her friends.

"I don't see him here though, what happened? Separation so soon?", said Maya.

"He is a busy man dear", said Khushi.

"Busy? Or he don't have time for you?", said Maya as her friends laugh. Khushi pressed her lips to control her anger.

"He doesn't have time to come among useless people you see, he grant his presence to special people only", said Aashima who also come there.

"Yeah in which you both comes", said Maya. Aashima shrugs her shoulder and stand next to Khushi, "Really if that was the case then ASR would not have gifted Khushi his personal designed dress", said Aashima as she gesture towards Khushi's gown.

Maya's mouth twisted again, when she saw Khushi and her dress she had the idea that it was a special one. Khushi couldn't help but feel happy about it, "Yeah he gifted me along with other dresses from his personal collection".

Maya picked up her drink and move from there, her friends follow along.

"Bi**h", said Aashima and Khushi give her a glare, "Don't say that Aashi".

"Khushi that's your problem, you always think good of everyone, try to be selfish sometimes", said Aashima as she order her drink.

"Ok don't get angry ... I guess the band is starting, come let's dance", said Khushi as she hear the band started to struck the tune on their instruments.

"Buy my drink", said Aashima as Khushi grab her and move towards the dance floor.

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

The band was about to start the song when they all heard a whooshing noise. Everybody started to look here and there.

"What's that?", said Aashima as the whooshing sound got stronger.

"Its coming from outside I guess", said Khushi as she saw few people going outside. They both move to the door as well.

Just then someone shouted, "There is a helicopter above our uni".

Till then many student and few teachers have come out. Khushi and Aashima went out too.

There was a white chopper in the air, which was coming down slowly on their university front lawn.And then they all saw 2 black SUV's coming from the front gate in speed and stopped in front of the lawn with screech, the door opens and 7-8 men came out wearing black suits. They all went in the lawn and stand in circles, telling the students to get off the lawn who had come there.

Khushi looked at her Dean who was standing some distance away from her with other fellow department heads.

Why isn't he saying anything to those men?, thought Khushi.

She got her answer as the chopper move down, Khushi move a step back as she saw AR logo in red on it.

"Oh my god", said Khushi, "Arnavji ...", could it be really him?

"Khushi what?", asked Aashima. But Khushi's eyes were stuck to the chopper.

The chopper touch the ground and the men move closer to it circling it. Khushi saw Raj run to the chopper gate and he opened it.

Just then she heard loud squeals and murmurs as Arnav came out from chopper.

"Oh my god ... Khushi, its ASR", squealed Aashima from her right.

Khushi was staring wide eyed, Raj said something to Arnav and pointed in her direction. Arnav give slight nod of his head and move in her direction.

Khushi watched him stunned, coming two steps down from lawn area, looking dashing as ever in his black suite with red wine tie and shiny black shoes. The men in black suites move closer to him, pushing the people away and making way for him.

(Arnav's attire)

Khushi heard few people, mostly girls calling out his name.

"Please move aside", said Raj a little loud as he move to Khushi's side. The chopper blades were slowing down, but still there was noise.

"Hey .. I am her friend", said Aashima offended.

"I know Mam, but for now please move aside", said Raj and Aashima look at Khushi angrily and move aside as Arnav came near.

Arnav took off his sunglasses as he stood in front of Khushi and smirk at her stunned expression; he leaned in, near her ear and said, "Hi".

"H h...i..i", said Khushi, "Yo ..o uu you're here".

ASR's men now have surrounded them in circle. The chopper blades had slowed down now and she could hear murmurs going around them.

"Yeah I am", said Arnav as he move close and snake his hand around her waist and give a gentle pull and kiss her forehead. Khushi got stunned at his gesture and look around. Few were looking in awe, few shocked and few were jealous.

"Arnavji ...", said Khushi as she put a hand on his chest and gesture with her eyes to the people around her.

"Hello ASR, nice to see you here", Khushi heard her Dean as he came near.

"Hello Sir", said ASR shaking his hand with Dean, "I hope you didn't mind (gesturing towards his chopper) I was short of time".

"No no, its fine. Welcome", said Dean and turn towards Khushi, "Khushi take him inside, the party is going on".

"Ye s..s yes Sir", said Khushi. Arnav looked at her amused with a small smile on his face. His hand was still around her waist. Khushi smile at him and move ahead.

Her heart was beating fast; she could feel his body heat from her side. She wanted to hug him.

He came here for her, the thought was overwhelming for her. She presses her lips to not cry.

"Relax sweet heart, I am here now", said Arnav and Khushi looked at him surprise thinking that how he guessed. They move inside the auditorium. Arnav gestures Raj, he came near and Arnav whisper something to him. Raj nodded and move away from there. The men in black suit stood in line near the auditorium door and Raj was some distance away from Arnav and Khushi.

"What was that?", asked Khushi.

"What was what?", asked Arnav.

"That Raj, you appointed him after me", said Khushi annoyed.

"Not after you, for you. Need to keep you safe", said Arnav.

"He nearly took off someone's arm you know", said Khushi.

"Well he deserved it, I would have punched me if it was me", said Arnav in serious tone.

"You knew about it", said Khushi as she look towards Raj, "He told you already".

"He had orders to report to me directly and immediately if something happens out of ordinary with you", said Arnav.

"Wait what? That means he is been following me?", said Khushi in surprised.

"Yup, since the time you landed here", said Arnav and Khushi's mouth open in a O.

"You want to close that now if you don't want me to kiss it", said Arnav and Khushi instantly close her mouth and swat his arm, "Arnavji behave".

"Whats my fault if you're looking so beautiful in this dress and all I can think is to kiss you senseless", said Arnav as he pull Khushi more close to him.

"Arnavji, please", said Khushi as she look around and found Aashima gesturing to her. Khushi move back a step and gesture Aashima to come.

"Arnavji, these are my friends, Aashima, Poonam and Divya", said Khushi introducing her friends.

"Hello ladies", Arnav smiles as he shook hands with them.

"Oh my god I can't believe I am meeting you in person", said Divya as she looked at Arnav in awe.

"Yeah, you are an inspiration to us all", said Poonam as she blush a little. Khushi try to control her laugh.

"And you are more handsome than you look in pictures", said Aashima and received a nudge of elbow from Khushi, "What, it's true girl", said Aashima.

"Thank you ladies, its nice of you", said Arnav.

Just then they heard the band started playing ... Poonam and Divya move away after few minutes to the dance floor. Aashima asked Khushi but she denied.

"Oh want to dance with your fianc eh", tease Aashima.

"Aashi just go before I smack you", said Khushi giving an angry glare to her friend who put up her hands in surrender and move away giving a wink to Arnav.

He chuckles, "I like her".

"What?", said Khushi quickly giving him an angry glare.

"She seem fun, good friend. Don't need to get jealous", said Arnav amused.

"I am not jealous, I know you are mine", said Khushi giving a tug to his tie.

"No doubht", said Arnav as his eyes travel lower to her lips. Khushi lowered her eyes and bit her lower lip.

"Oh don't", said Arnav as he move back a little, "Don't test my patience Khushi".

Before Khushi could say something they heard a voice, "Hey ASR, I can't believe you are here"

Maya came there and extend her hand, "You are my role model, and I have followed every news about you", her voice was little over excited and she smile little seductively at him.

Arnav smile politely, "Hello" with slight wave of hand, he didn't miss the scowl on Khushi's face and understood that this lady doesn't come in her friends category.

Maya face expression changed as he didn't shook hands with her. Khushi smile at her over sweetly and before Maya could open her mouth Khushi grabed Arnav's arm, "Excuse me, I want to dance with MY finace", saying that Khushi move towards dance floor with Arnav.

"What was that? You said you were not jealous", said Arnav in teasing tone.

"Oh I am not, I want to give that stupid something back. Remember I told you how some girls teased me all the time, she was on top of that", said Khushi annoyed as she look at Maya, who was fuming now seeing them.

"Ahan", said Arnav as he snake his arms around her waist and pull her close, their bodies touching from front, "I like fiery you".

Khushi blush under his intense gaze, Arnav takes her hand and started to move as the band play a slow number. Many couples came on dance floor.

"So how was my show off?", said Arnav. Khushi giggles a bit, "Superb" making Arnav smile.

Then her expression changes to concern, "But I said not to hurry your work, and I feel bad now that you have to come here like this".

"There is something else that is more important than my work now", said Arnav as he look at her with love, "You".

Khushi's heart skips a beat as she saw the desire in his eyes.

"You are important to me Khushi and I know how much you wanted me to come, so how could I deny that", said Arnav as he runs his hand on her back.

Due to gown her upper back was bare. Khushi close her eyes as she felt his touch, she sighed thinking finally ... she got his touch. Arnav was looking at her expression. His situation was not different.

Khushi put her hand on his shoulder and reel in his warmth, they dance slowly. Few people were looking at them in awe and few in envy. Anand was burning seeing Khushi that close to someone. Even with NK in uni, there was always a little distance between them. Maya too fumed and felt jealous. Aashima, Poonam and Divya were looking at them in awe and happiness. They were happy for their friend. Aashima didn't leave the chance to tease Maya about it, making her more agitated.

"Can we go someplace private now?", said Arnav in impatient voice as the song came to end. Khushi nod her head a little and move towards the auditorium door. She gesture Aashima on the way who understood and shows thumbs up to them making Arnav chuckled and Khushi pass an angry look.

Khushi took him to sport complex area; it was rather dark and only few people were around. Arnav was amused at the situation, rather enjoying it. He never did these kinds of things when he was studying, no girlfriends and all the focus on study. Khushi stopped at one side of corridor and turn to Arnav. Before he could say anything Khushi hugged him tight.

"Arnavji ...", Khushi said his name in longing, "I missed you very much".

Arnav wound his arms around her soft body and inhale her hair. He got alerted as he heard a sniffing sound. "Khushi, you're crying", said Arnav as he pull her back.

"No no ... I am just overwhelmed, surprised and happy to see you here. Thank you so much for coming", said Khushi as she wipes the tear which had rolled down, "It means a lot to me".

"Sweeheart, it means a lot to me too", said Arnav as he cup her face and lean in.

Khushi closed her eyes but just then a thought came in her mind, she opened her eyes and place her fingers on Arnan's lips, "Arnavji, wo Raj ..."

"He knows to stay back when I am with you", said Arnav and place his lips on her.

Khushi sighed as she felt his lips touch hers ... softly and slowly, she wound her hands around his shoulder and neck and give equal to their kiss which soon turn into a hot one.

"Khushi", Arnav whispered against her lips as they broke their heady kiss ... if it wasn't for the need to breathe ... they would never have parted.

"Arnav", Khushi whispered as she tried to move back but Arnav pull her more into him, and start another passionate kiss. He didn't want to stop, and wanted to continue kissing if not for the noise they hear of people close by.

"I ... I .. th..ink .. we...should go", said Khushi as she calmed her breath.

"Shhshh", said Arnav as he place his finger on her lips, "Don't say anything, just few more minutes", he pulled her close to his body, her front touching his. Khushi sighed as she put her head against his beating heart, while he laid his chin on top of her head ... both finding solace in each other's embrace.

Few minutes later they went back to the auditorium, Khushi wanted to leave, to spend time with him alone, but he said it won't look good as her friends must be waiting for her. Khushi got busy with her friends and Arnav met with NK and few other people. Soon the dinner started and they went to buffet table. Arnav stood to side as Khushi made his plate and give it to him. He waited till she made hers and they both went to the corner table. Khushi's friends understood that she want to have some private time with Arnav so they didn't disturb them.

After dinner Khushi went to bid goodbye to her Dean and teacher and was going towards Aashima when Anand came in front of her.

"Hey Khushi, I never get to congratulate you, my bad", said Anand as he extend his hand, "Congratulation on your engagement". He wanted to show her that he isn't intimidated by her so called fiance.

Khushi didn't want to shake his hand but she didn't wanted to create a scene as she saw 3-4 people watching them from close by.

Khushi had just lifted her hand when someone else grabs Anand's hand from her side, "Thanks".

It was Arnav. He snake his other hand around Khushi's waist and pull her little close. Arnav's grip was tight, his face serious. Anand was taken aback with his hard stare which clearly telling him to back off or their will be consequences. Anand give a nervous smile, "ASR its nice to meet you".

"I wish I could say the same about you, but can't", said Arnav in stern tone as he left his hand.

"I don't want to see you near my fianc after this", said Arnav in same hard tone and take Khushi away as Raj came there telling Anand to back off now. Anand couldn't help but feel insulted as he saw few people murmuring who were standing close by. He quickly move away from there in anger.

Aashima, Poonam and Divya were giving teasing looks to Khushi, as they saw the whole scene from some distance away. Khushi gesture them to stop it as she came to them to say goodbye.

"Ok take care and don't forget about the treat ok, I am not gona let you go", said Aashima.

"Yeah from you and ASR as well", said Poonam.

"From me what?", said Arnav who came near and heard the last part.

"That we wanted treat from you and Khushi, you guys got engaged and we were not even invited", said Aashima before Khushi could stop her.

"Oh that, not a problem ... hmm lets see", said Arnav as he thought for a while, "How about dinner at Hyatt sound?".

Ashima, Poonam and Divya squealed with excitement and instantly agreed making Khushi shake her head. Khushi hugged her friends and then move out with Arnav.

Khushi got confuse when Arnav took her to front lawn instead of parking lot. And then next moment her eyes widened when she realize that she will be traveling in chopper.

"Arnavji?", said Khushi not sure about it.

"Trust me", said Arnav as he went in and give a hand to her.

"Always", whispered Khushi as Arnav pull her in.

"Take it in the air", said Arnav to the pilot. Khushi saw Raj already seated in front with the pilot.

Soon Khushi heard noise of blades, it was less inside as compare to what you hear outside.

Khushi clutched Arnav's arm tightly with both her hands as chopper ascends in the air. She closed her eyes and started to pray.

After few seconds she felt a peck on her cheek, she opens her eyes and saw Arnav's face close to her. She looks in his eyes and got lost in the brown orbs. Arnav gestures her to the side. Khushi gesture with her head, what'.

Arnav gesture her to look to side and next moment her breath hitched as she saw many small big lights glowing down. She was in awe of the view. She left Arnav's arm and move little towards the big window and look outside. The city view from up there was just spectacular. Arnav move close to her as he put one arm around her from back.

"It's so beautiful", said Khushi.

"Yeah I know", whispered Arnav on her ear. Khushi felt goose bumps erupt on her skin as Arnav nuzzles on junction of her shoulder and neck. Khushi close her eyes and tilted her neck to give him more access and Arnav didn't leave the chance and place many kisses over there. Arnav control his desire and move back a little. And hug her from behind. Khushi enjoyed the view and his embrace.

After some minutes chopper landed on the rooftop of a big building; Khushi get to know from pilot talk's that it was the Grand Hyatt Hotel. Arnav told her that he was staying here till Monday and then he will leave for Goa.

Khushi wanted to ask him to stay for more days but she knew that he had work to do and he came here from London winding his work quickly was more than enough for her.

They all went out and Arnav gesture to Raj and Pilot to go. Khushi look at him questioningly and Arnav just pull her close in reply.

"Arnavji, what are we doing here?", asked Khushi as she move her hair to side which was blowing due to fast wind, being on top of the building.

"I want my kisses", said Arnav in demanding tone as he wound his arm around her. Khushi eyes widened a bit and she look around to see if anyone is there.

"No one is here, we are alone", said Arnav, "So remember what I said" as he look at her with a glint in his eyes.

"Arnavji ... its late and Amma must be waiting for me", said Khushi as she tried to push him but Arnav grip was tight.

He fulfilled his promise of collecting his kisses and didn't left Khushi until her lips were little swallow from their kissing session. Khushi lost the number of count of their kisses. It was good that she was in Arnav's arm or else she would have fallen down long ago.

Khushi was nervous at the state of her lips much to Arnav's amusement who was enjoying her rant about what will her jiji say when she will look at her.

Khushi glide her tongue on her lips yet again and Arnav groaned inwardly, she was look so tempting with her plump lips and shy expressions. If he was not driving the car, he would have taken Khushi in his lap and have a repeat session of kisses.

"Khushi stop doing that if you don't want me to stop the car and have another kissing session", said Arnav little annoyed.

"Haw, it's all your fault", said Khushi as she smack his arm, "look what you did".

"Yeah so, and look what you did", said Arnav pointing toward his neck and Khushi blushed as she look at few tiny red marks, due to her nails.

Arnav smirk at her and takes her hand, placing it on his thigh, and rubs his thumb on it. Khushi knew he likes to do that and she lean back, closing her eyes, happy to be with him.

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

"Arnavji?", Payal was surprised cum shocked when she saw Arnav standing one step behind Khushi as she opened the door.

"Hi Payal, I hope you're doing fine", said Arnav.

"Yes .. I ... I am, please come in", said Payal as she move to side giving them way.

"Payal, has Khushi come?", came Garima's voice from the living room.

"Yes Amma", Payal replied back.

"Hello Aunty", said Arnav as he saw Garima's surprise face.

"Arnav Bitwa, you here", said Garima astonished to see him and then her eyes move downwards towards his hand which was holding Khushi's.

"Amma you know, Arnavji came to my university in his chopper, it was so filmy. You should have seen the faces of others", said Khushi in excitement.

Garima shakes her head a little at her daughter's excitement, "Arnav bitwa please sit, I will bring some coffee for you".

"No aunty thanks, I was just here to drop her.", said Arnav as he look at Khushi and she beamed up at him.

"Bitwa its late you can stay here for tonight", said Garima but Arnav politely denied. With Khushi around he won't be able to stop himself to touch her or to be with her, and it won't seems a good idea in his in-laws house. Arnav went out as Khushi followed him. He pecked her forehead and smile at her, "See you tomorrow", said Arnav and get in his car. Khushi waved him goodbye.

Garima saw her daughter coming in with a big smile and contentment on her face. Khushi took Payal's hand and move upstairs telling her the happening of tonight with extra excitement. Garima send a silent prayer to Devi Maiya, her daughter was smiling but her glow was missing from past few days and now she could see the glow on her face and knew the reason for it as well.

(NOTE: The sequence of whole alumni dinner and Arnav coming there in his chopper was actually meant for my other story ... but then i thought to utilize it here as i mentioned that i may not be able to write another story after this ... i really wanted to write something like this 😳)

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