Chapter 101

Next Day - Saturday Morning ---------------------

Anjali was putting the plates on the dining table for breakfast; Hari Prakash was almost done with the cooking. Nani came there and asked Anjali about Arush's health.

"He is much better Nani, he is sleeping now as he woke up around 5 am for his milk", said Anjali.

Nani nodded her head and saw Akash and Rahul coming to dining area.

"Bitya leave this and go to Arush, he will wake up if he is alone in the room", said Nani with concern.

"Rajat Uncle is there with him Nani, I asked him to come down for breakfast, but he wanted to stay with him", said Anjali.

"Good morning Dadi", said Akash as he took his seat beside Rahul. Nani nodded in response.

Mama and Mamiji usually wakes up late on weekends, so Anjali called Hari Prakash to lay down the breakfast. She was thinking to go upstairs to call Arnav for breakfast, when he himself made an entry, making her surprise.

"Good morning everyone", said Arnav in light casual way and sit down, opposite to Akash and Rahul. Rohan too came there and sit adjacent to Rahul, wishing everyone good morning.

"I guess your work problem is solved now, that's why there is no anger on your face Chottey", said Nani

"What problem Nani? Everything is fine at work", said Arnav as he places the toast on his plate and started to butter it.

Nani too started her breakfast, shaking her head at his grandson's changing moods. Rahul and Akash shared a knowing look and both smiled thinking the same thing, that it was not work, but Khushi and yes the matter seems to be solved looking at the calm Arnav.

Anjali wanted to ask about Khushi, if he had talked to her? or if they had sorted things out? but stopped when her eyes fell on her husband, who was giving her a playful smile. Anjali frowned and gesture to him, asking what is it? Rahul just shrugs his shoulder and look at Akash who was also having the same smile on his face.

"Akash quite with smiling and finish your breakfast, we have work to do", said Arnav and Akash got alerted.

"You are not going to office today, its Saturday and I need Akash to help me with something", said Anjali instantly.

Akash face fell, thinking that, again he will have to go for some shopping or some other errand to run regarding wedding preparations.

"No, we are not going to office today, but we will be doing work from home. And I have arranged for some extra help so you won't be needing Akash", said Arnav.

Akash sigh with relief, mentally thanking his brother, he is more willing to do office work than carrying bags of shopping. Why they have to shop so much for wedding? it never ends, thought Akash little irritated.

"Yes, I will need him, he is the brother of groom and I want him to take part in the wedding preparations Chottey", said Anjali in stern tone.

"And he will Di, when the real functions starts, before that I need to explain him about some important office work, because I won't be working after wedding for some days and he will take over", said Arnav.

"Oh really, then what will you be doing Chottey?", asked Anjali in a teasing tone.

"That's for me to do and for you to think", said Arnav smirking and stood up taking his glass of juice, "Akash, study room when you are finished" and then move from there towards stairs. Anjali look at Rahul, as if asking what was that, in reply, he again gives her the same playful smile. Anjali gave him a stern look and went back to her breakfast.

"Arnav bitwa seems to be in a good mood today", said Nani looking at Anjali and Rahul.

"Not only today Nani, you will be seeing him in the same mood till his wedding", said Rahul and wink at Akash who understood the meaning, "Yeah Dadi, after all he is finally getting his Khushi", said Akash and then give a look to Rohan, who was surprise with the look he received.

"Yes that's right", said Nani with a smile understanding his referring to Khushi, "I am very happy that he is getting Khushi as a life partner, who knows how to handle his anger and make him smile".

"So true Nani, she is the one and only for Bhai", said Akash and his eyes fell on Rohan with the statement, who gives him a serious look in return, as if telling him that he knows what he is doing (that his sister was not meant for Arnav).

"You don't have to worry about him Nani, now that Khushi is here to take care of him", said Rahul and Nani smile wide in return.

They had finished their breakfast when Arnav came there with files in one hand and place the empty juice glass on the dining table and address Anjali, "Di, Khushi will be here in the evening" and he was about to turn when Anjali asked, "Why? I mean ... how do you know?", purposely, so that Arnav will tell that he had talked to Khushi.

"What a stupid question Di", said Arnav giving a look to Anjali as if she had gone crazy, "if I won't know about her then who will? And if you remember ... her family was coming this weekend. They will be here today evening, so I asked her to go from here to the station".

"Ok ok, don't need to be all ASR with me", said Anjali twisting her mouth.

Nani stood up from chair, "Chottey do arrange for the car for them".

"No need, I will drop them home", said Arnav and went from there towards the study room, leaving everyone surprise.

Arnav rarely do these kinds of things, even with Anjali and Nani, he would deny sometimes if they asked him to drop or take them somewhere and Anjali had to blackmail him for it.

Rahul chuckles seeing the expression on Nani's and Anjali's faces and move to Anjali, side hugging her, "You will be getting more surprises like this in future Anji, so brace yourself".

Anjali push him away, "I know and even the reason behind it, but still I can't help but get surprise when he does things like these, which he didn't do before".

Nani and Akash agree with her, they both move away from there. Rohan went upstairs to check on his father, thinking about Khushi. She was hurt yesterday, the way she was crying and run out. Did Arnav talked to her and sort the matter?, he thought. He seems to be in a good mood or else he would still be his grumpy self. But he was right, doesn't he? When he told Khushi that the moment they will get home Arnav will yell on her. And they still think that Arnav is changing because of Khushi in his life, don't they see how he hurt her and dominate her ... Rohan shakes his head thinking this.

"By looking at Chottey's mood, I think he had talked to Khushi and apologize to her for hurting her", said Anjali looking at Rahul.

"I told you when you were getting all worried about the situation. I knew he will solve it yesterday night itself and I told the same to Akash", said Rahul with a winning smile.

"Haan haan, now a days you know my brother more than me right", said Anjali in mock tone.

"Yes true, you sometimes get too much worried about Arnav, I told you to always give time to the situations regarding Arnav. He always solve the matters, when he calms down after his anger", said Rahul in an explain tone.

"Yes, yes doctor ji, you know about each and everything and I am a fool who gets worried and think of everyone, I am crazy that I do that, but now I won't. Now you solve each and every issue of this house", said Anjali little irritated and move towards Nani's room and Rahul went behind her, smiling, because he knew that no matter what happens Anjali will always get worry about her family and specially her Chottey.

After some time --------------------

Akash look up from file at Arnav, who was busy typing a mail. They were in the study room and Arnav has given Akash a file to read.

"um bhai, everything is alright, right?", asked Akash after few seconds. Seeing Arnav's good mood at breakfast, he concluded that Arnav sorted everything with Khushi, but he couldn't helped but asked.

"Yeah ... why are you asking?", asked Arnav.

"Wo ... Jiju told me what happened yesterday, if you want I can talk to Dadi about Rohan", said Akash.

"What for?", asked Arnav.

"I know you don't like him staying here, I can talk to Dadi that we can arrange for a house close to our home for them and ...", Akash was saying when Arnav interrupted him, "No need Akash, I don't have any problem now with their stay here, they are here for Arush and staying here they can spend more time with him ... also its not good for uncle to travel to and fro every day".

"I know bhai, but its about Rohan, what happened yesterday, it can happen again. And I don't want anything to go wrong between you and Khushi when there are hardly 2 weeks left for your wedding. And Arush will be going with Khushi today evening, no? So what will they do here when he is not around?", said Akash with concern. He was worried that what if Rohan do something, which will become a hindrance in wedding.

"Its ok Akash, nothing of that sort will happen now. Let them stay here for as long as they want. Like I said, I don't have any problem now", said Arnav in an assuring way.

Akash was surprise to hear it, Arnav literally hates Rohan that Akash knew well. Arnav is not the person to tolerate someone around him, that too in his house whom he hates. Then how come he is ok with Rohan's stay here now? The answer came to him ... Khushi.

"I think its more of Khushi's influence talking than you", said Akash and Arnav look up at him. He smile seeing Akash's knowing look, "Hmm ... you can say that".

"Ahan, guess Jiju was right that you won't wait for tomorrow and will sort everything with Khushi yesterday night itself", said Akash and Arnav gives him a surprise look, as if asking really?'.

Seeing the look Akash continued, "Yeah he was sure about it, he said that you won't rest until you apologize to Khushi for hurting her and explain the reason for your anger".

"He was right then, I can't feel at ease if she is upset because of me, and i did said some pretty bad things to her ... you know how my anger is, when it gets at peak. It was disturbing me that Khushi is hurt because of me and I wanted to make it right at any cost. She is very important to me Akash", said Arnav.

"I know that bhai ... everyone knows", said Akash with a smile, "You know it feels kind of strange to see you like this".

"What you mean?", asked Arnav.

"Like this, at ease and satisfy. You smile more these days and your mood is not stick to professional stiff ASR that we were used to see every day. You never liked the concept of love and marriage. Whenever Di and Dadi bring up the topic of marriage you would get angry and you never even got any serious girlfriend, except for those models with which you make appearances in front of Media. When you got married to Tania, you were not this self (pointing towards Arnav) which you are now. You love Khushi and getting married to her and that too with all the rituals and functions, even attending those kinds of functions irritated you", said Akash.

Arnav looked to the side, seeing nothing in particular as his mind conjure up the image of his beautiful finance, the smiling face, her warmth, those peaceful hugs, "Its true that I never liked the concept of love and marriage after what happened with Ma and what I have seen, the way people make relationships for their benefits and the pretense that comes with it. But the truth is deep down in my heart I always wanted someone to call my own, to love and to be loved. My marriage with Tania was not my choice; I was forced to do it. I tried my best to make it work but when I got to know what she did I just cannot accept her anymore. The remaining positivity that I had for love and marriage were finished and I thought that there are no such things like these. But it proved wrong when Khushi came in my life. I don't know when and how but she just entered into my heart and conquer the deepest fears I had in regards of relations and now become my whole world", said Arnav as he leans back in his chair.

Akash was surprised and shocked, listening to his brother, openly expressing his feelings and emotions which he rarely does or more probably never do. Akash smile seeing the content look on his brother's face. He was so happy for him.

"I am so happy that you have found Khushi, she is indeed true to her name, the way she is bringing happiness in your life. I wish to see you like this every coming day", said Akash with a wide smile.

Arnav too smiled back and then sit up straight, "Ok enough of chatting now, get back to file. Aman and Lavanya will be here soon, we have to finalize things for the exhibition this evening", said Arnav and Akash got back to his file while Arnav look down at his laptop, but his mind went back to Khushi again and their early morning ...

His sleep broke with a soothing feeling of soft fingers running in his hair; he opens his eyes slowly and saw Khushi's beautiful face close to his own. She smiles at him and continue running her fingers in his hair.

"Hmmm ... it feels good to wake up like this", murmurs Arnav closing his eyes.

"Is that so? Then I will always wake you up like this", said Khushi softly.

He opens his eyes again and moves more close to Khushi, making her lay back straight, he probe up on elbow and runs his fingers on her cheeks.

"Did you sleep well?", asked Khushi cupping his face.

"Yeah, I always sleep peacefully with you in my arms", said Arnav as his eyes roam over her beautiful face. Khushi gives him a smile as she moves away few strands of hair from his forehead.

"I think you should go back now", said Khushi, "That's why I wake you up".

"Hmmm, I wish I don't have to, I want to stay like this with you", said Arnav in complaining tone.

"Just few more days, then you won't have to", said Khushi as her heart flutter looking into Arnav's brown orbs which were now focused on her lips. He leans in and brush his lips with hers,"I can't wait for that".

Khushi blushed as she put her hand over his lips, "No more now, go fresh up, I will bring juice for you".

"No need, I will eat something at home", said Arnav as he reluctantly got down from bed and picks his cell from side table, it was around 6.10 am. He went to washroom to freshen up and Khushi got busy in making the bed.

She was glad that Arnav slept well, where she didn't. Her mind was on him all the time, all their talks running in her head. She couldn't help but feel sad and concern for him, with all what happened with Tania ... how can she play with his feelings? Her own friend. Love isn't something to impose on; it's a very beautiful thing, you cannot force someone to love you. She closes her eyes as she squeeze the pillow in her hand, thinking how much hurt Arnav got in all this. She feels proud of him that despite of all the hardships and pain he is still standing strong. How much a person can endure?, thought Khushi as her mind played his words, his fear of losing her, his fear that his love may not enough to stop her from going away. She may have assured him but she cannot take it out of her heard, he may be strong from outside, but he is like any other human being from the inside, who needs love and assurance and care. And she will give him that, all through his life. She will fill his life with happiness that all his fears will go away.

She was lost in her thoughts that she didn't hear the bathroom door got opened and Arnav come out. He saw her looking into the space, the pillow in her hand, clutched tightly. He understood that she is thinking about last night. He moves towards her and hug her from behind, "Khushi stop thinking, I am fine".

Khushi turns in his arms and look at his face, he was smiling a little and his eyes assuring her that he is indeed fine now. Khushi drop the pillow on bed and cupped his face, getting on her tiptoes, she kissed his forehead, eyes, both cheeks, nose and then pecks his lips.

"Arnavji, no matter what happens, how hard or worse things get, I will always be there with you. You are not be alone now and never will be. And never think that I will go away from you, because I can't live without you, you are my everything Arnavji and I want ...", Khushi was saying when Arnav place his lips on hers to stop her. He kisses her lightly and tenderly.

"Relax sweet heart; do you think that I will let you go that easily? I told you I am selfish, I will move earth and sky to keep you with me. I need you like one needs his next breath", said Arnav intensely.

Khushi shiver a little, feeling his breath on her lips and the intensity with which he had said those words.

He knows that he has the fear of losing her, but after last night that was pretty much settle down. And he is not the one, to not struggle to keep the person he loves close to him if the situation arises that she had to go away. First, there will be nothing like, but even if it is, he is not ASR just for business. He can be shrewd and ruthless in other things as well.

"Khushi just forget it ok, like you say that past is past, it is gone. So why think on it and ruin your present and future", said Arnav.

Khushi was highly surprised to listen to this that her mouth got slightly opened. These words coming from him, who used to clutch tightly on to his past to keep reminding him the cruelness of this world, is a new thing in itself.

"What?", asked Arnav looking at her expression.

"You are saying this ... you.", said Khushi astonish.

"Yeah, strange isn't it", said Arnav with a chuckle.

"Yes it is, but I am happy that you have started to think like that. True, the past is gone, though it will remain with us, but we have to focus on our present and future and we will ... together", said Khushi with a smile and Arnav hug her in return. They stood like this for few seconds and then Khushi broke the hug, "Don't forget your promises ok, or else it won't be good for you".

"Yeah yeah, I know. I will try to be more close to Arush", said Arnav.

"Good and also that you don't have to keep everything here (she patted his chest where heart is) you have me now, you can share your worries and pain with me ... anytime ... anywhere. We are the other half of each other, soul mates, one body two souls", said Khushi and Arnav look at her with a glint in his eyes.

"But we are not one body two souls yet, we haven't done THAT yet Khushi", said Arnav in his husky voice.

Khushi look at him confuse for a second and then her mouth open in O, understanding his meaning.

"Besharam", said Khushi pushing him on chest, "Abh jayee, werna Buaji ne daikh lia toh garbad ho jaye gi".

Arnav leans in, "Jaon?"

"Haa ..aan", said Khushi as she moves back and her legs hit the bed, she balance herself quickly.

"Dil nahi cha raha", said Arnav, his eyes mischievous.

"Dil ko samjhayee, k intezaar karey, sabar ka phal meetha hota ha", said Khushi cheekily.

"Hmm ... aur yeh phal kub miley ga?", asked Arnav innocently.

Khushi blush slightly, "Shaadi k baad".

"Usse se pehle nahi mil sakta?", asked Arnav as he wound his hand around her waist and nuzzles his nose on her neck.

Khushi closes her eyes to control her senses, "No", she pushed him giving him a stern look, "Now go, you have an exhibition to plan tonight".

"How do you know that?", asked Arnav surprise.

"I don't go office, it doesn't mean I don't know what happens in AR", said Khushi with a pride in her voice.

"Really?", asked Arnav.

"Yes really, now go. You will be late otherwise, for your jogging", said Khushi and move around him towards her cupboard.

"So you will come tonight?", asked Arnav.

"I will try Arnavji, wo Amma, Baba and Jiji are coming today evening. I have to do preparations here for them and then I have to pick up Arush as well and then ...", Khushi was saying when Arnav cut in, "Its ok Khushi, I understand. Don't need for you to come, I won't stay there for long anyway. You can come to Shantivan first, we will go to pick your family ok".

"No Arnavji, you don't have to, I will take ..."

"Taxi right? Well no need when I am here, I said we will go ... so we will go, no argument.", said Arnav in his serious tone.

"Lard governer kahin k", murmurs Khushi.

"Suna main ne", said Arnav.

Khushi sticks out her tongue at him, Arnav chuckled and gave a smooch on her lips and left from there.

He was himself surprised that now he don't want to think about past. How painful it might be, he wants to forget those hurtful days and focus on today. He hates the feeling of vulnerability, he had made himself strong and he wants to be that way. Last night will be last time when he had visited his painful memories, but now he will think of creating new ones, like Khushi says, life is short and we have to make most of it.

He will think about his present with Khushi and plan for future. With the word plan, he remembers that he has to make plans for her birthday, there are so many things in his mind do to. He wants to make it memorable for her, as it is her first birthday with him. He picks up his cell, gesturing Akash that he will be back after making the call.

In Evening - Around 5 pm --------------------------

Nani had just finished her evening prayer and was moving around the living room spreading the fumes from diya. She smiles wide when she saw Khushi in hallway coming towards her. Khushi bend down and touched her feet.

"Jeetey raho bitya", Nani blessed Khushi as she gives her Prasad.

"How are you Nani? How's the pain in your knees now? ", asked Khushi eating Prasad.

"I am fine bitya, pain is less than before", said Nani.

"Naniji you shouldn't be doing this, give me, I will do it", said Khushi as she extend her hands to take the pooja thal.

Nani held her hand, "Its ok Bitya, it's almost done. But if I can get a tea made by you then I will feel much better".

"Of course, you don't need to ask Naniji, you just order", said Khushi with a smile.

"Stay happy", said Nani patting Khushi's cheek.

"By the way, where is everyone Naniji? Arush? ... Anjaliji?", asked Khushi looking around the empty living room.

"Anjali bitya took Arush to orphanage; he was getting irritated at home. Damadji is at hospital. Chottey and Akash bitwa are as usual busy with their office work. Manohar and Manorma went out to meet friends and Rohan bitwa and Rajat ji also went out for some work.", said Naniji as she finished her around of living room.

"Oh ok, Naniji you go in your room and I will bring tea for you", said Khushi as she held Nani from shoulders, "And if you want I can make pakoras for you too".

"Wah, thank you bitya, do make more, Anjali bitya will love those, she will soon come back", said Nani with excitement.

"Ok Naniji", said Khushi and went towards kitchen, while Nani went to her room.

Khushi come inside kitchen and prepare the ingredients for making Pakoras and tea. She messaged Anjali and Arnav both of her arrival here. Anjali replied back that she will be home in an hour, and no reply from Arnav. Khushi understood that he must be busy with work and will reply to her when he sees the message.

Hari Prakash came there after few minutes and asked Khushi to let him make the pakoras and tea but she refused and asked him to sit down and let her work. He reluctantly sit on the stool inside the kitchen, worried that he might get a scolding from Arnav bhaiya if he gets to know that Khushi is working and he was just sitting. But soon his worry removed as Khushi began to chat a dozen with him and he too indulge in the stories giving his inputs.

Rohan and Rajat just entered from front door ... Rohan asked his dad to go his room and rest saying that he will bring tea for him. He went towards kitchen hearing the noises coming. He thought to ask Hari Prakash to make coffee or tea, but got highly surprised seeing Khushi working in the kitchen like it's her own and chatting with Hari Prakash like they are long last friends.

Hari Prakash stopped talking seeing Rohan there, Khushi turn towards to him to see why he stopped and saw Rohan. Seeing him, all those talks of Arnav and Tania flash in her mind.

"Hi, you here?", asked Rohan as he move towards Khushi and stood 2-3 steps away, "I thought you won't be coming here today".

"And why you thought like that Rohan ji?", asked Khushi her expression serious.

"After what happened yesterday, the way Arnav yelled, I don't know what exactly happened between you too but he definitely hurt you with the way you went away all crying, if I am not wrong in recollecting", said Rohan in a slight sarcastic way.

Khushi looked at Hari Prakash who had stood up and was looking between her and Rohan. Khushi take one cup of tea and put it in a tray, "Hari Prakashji, please give this to Naniji, tell her that the pakoras on their way. And please arrange the chairs in the gazebo, we will have our outside", said Khushi with a smile. Hari Prakash nodded his head and went out of room.

"I was right, wasn't I? I told you he will yell on us as soon as we will come home", said Rohan in same tone.

"Yes you were right, so what?", said Khushi as she put more batter in oil to make pakoras.

"So what? Doesn't it bother you the way he gets angry unnecessary? His rude behavour?", asked Rohan surprise at her coolness after what happened yesterday.

"Arnavji doesn't get angry unnecessary, he was worried when he couldn't reach to me. I would have behaved the same way if it was me, I would have gone crazy if I couldn't get to Arnavji. So unlike you, I understand his concern and fear behind his anger", said Khushi.

"So I guess he had apologize to you for yesterday that's why you don't seem upset", said Rohan.

"Yes he apologize and me too. I too had said some bad things to him, which hurt him", said Khushi.

"It's really surprises me, that after how he behaves rudely and get angry on little things, everyone still cares for him. Even if his behavior is too much sometime, even if he hurt someone, still he is the good one", said Rohan.

"That's because everyone loves him very much. They all know what he had gone through, what he had become despite all the hardships and pain he has to endure. This house, this comfortable life his family has is only because of his hard work and struggles, which I am sure you know as well", said Khushi as she took out the fried pakoras.

"So does it give him a free pass to behave however he likes with anyone and do whatever he wants?", asked Rohan in slight anger.

"Do you have a girlfriend Rohanji?", asked Khushi as she shut the stove and turns to Rohan.

"What? What has it got to with me having a girlfriend?", asked Rohan confused and irritated.

"Tell me first, do you have a girlfriend or a female friend who is close to you?", asked Khushi.

"Yeah, I got a friend who is close to me", replied Rohan

"Ok then imagine, one day you find yourself in bed with her and she tells you that you both had made love, but you don't remember a thing about it, how will you feel then?", asked Khushi in serious tone.

Rohan was speechless with her question.

"Then she tells you that how much she loves you, but you don't obviously right, you just consider her a very good friend. Imagine the guilt you would feel of ruining her life when she tells you that she is pregnant with your baby ... and then you don't have any choice but to marry her. Not only that, you are taunted and blackmailed that you are having an affair or not caring for your marriage when you couldn't love her despite all your efforts and then you get to know that it was all a hoax. You didn't made love with her in first place, she was not pregnant ... she had done all this just to get you. Tell me Rohan ji, if your that close friend had done all this with you then how would you have felt?", said Khushi.

Rohan didn't say anything as he understood what Khushi was implying ... her sister had done all that with Arnav.

"Your sister not only lied to Arnavji, she played with his emotions and feelings. She had taunted him of cheating him and having an affair when he couldn't love her back, she blackmailed him to give into her seduction game, can you even think how much mentally disturbed Arnavji must have gotten because of your sister? But still he tried to fulfill his responsibilities as a husband, he tried to make her happy, he took care of her. Can you image the pain he must have gone through on getting to know that your sister lied all along? She used him", said Khushi in anger.

"She didn't ... she loved him Khushi", said Rohan in anger.

"Love? You call this love?", said Khushi sarcastically, "It was not love but selfishness on her part. Love cannot be imposed on someone. Its not in anyone's hand to fall in or out of love with someone. Your sister thought that she might not live for long, and she wanted to have her love but it doesn't give her the right to play with Arnavji's life and feelings that way. Arnavji was honest in his feeling since the beginning, he had told your sister time and again that he doesn't love her and cannot love her but she still went ahead and plan all that to get him, that was not love, that was selfishness and cheating. She is your sister, so obviously you love her very much and you are hurt by losing her, but you just cannot blame Arnavji for what happened with her when the main culprit is your own sister", said Khushi pointing a finger at Rohan.

"That all wouldn't have happened if he loved my sister in return, why didn't he? She loved him so much. They spend so much time together, didn't he feel even a little bit of love towards Tania?", said Rohan angrily.

Khushi took a deep breath and then continue, "Look Rohan ji I know that you are angry on Arnavji that he didn't love your sister, but you cannot force someone to love you. You think that Arnavji didn't love her a bit? If he didn't cared for her, he wouldn't have married her in the first place; he wouldn't have tried to change his feelings towards her. But love is not the thing that can happen on your own will, it just happens. And you think that your sister might have lived if Arnavji had met her in the hospital? Tell me if he did meet her in the hospital, he wouldn't have forgiven her even then ... so would your sister still be alive then? Can you guarantee that? No ... right? You cannot be sure when and how much someone has to live, no one can know about these things. And how can you expect from Arnavji to meet your sister, even after how she had broken him? Would you have forgiven someone like that? Because If it was me, then I would never have forgiven that person. Your sister not only broke his trust, but hurt him to the extent that he can't forgive her even if he tries to. Its not easy to forget and forgive when someone breaks your trust into pieces and play with your feelings. Only a person who goes through such trauma can understand this. So I want you to think on this again, keep yourself in his shoes and then decide", said Khushi and then turn towards the stove, she took the kettle down and started to pour tea in thermos.

"And about Arnav's anger and behavior towards me, you don't have to worry or think about that. Like I said before, I know him better than you. I love him the way he is. I love his anger, his arrogant nature, his determine personality and strength. He had gone through so much but still he is standing strong, running his business and taking care of his family. You don't even know half the things he had gone through in his teen years, the problems he had faced. But he faced them strongly and emerged as a successful man. I am very proud of him and I feel lucky to have him in my life. Our love is unique in its own way, it's very strong. You won't be able to understand our bond. No matter what happens, how much we fight, argue and even hurt each other, we will still love each other unconditionally.", said Khushi as she closes the thermos and turn to Rohan, "Arnavji won't say anything to you now, and I will appreciate it if you also don't say anything to him which will make him angry or cause tension because this time you will find me standing before you.", said Khushi in determine tone.

Rohan knows that whatever Khushi had said is right, but he still couldn't feel at ease, he still couldn't forget his sister's pain in her last days. His anger towards Arnav was still the same.

The whole conversation was heard by Akash, who happens to come there as he was feeling hungry. But he stopped seeing Khushi and Rohan conversing. He was so happy hearing Khushi's words. After talking to Arnav in morning, he had postpone his plan of talking to Rohan, thinking that now if Arnav doesn't have any problem with his stay here then he shouldn't increase the tension by talking/warning to Rohan at this time. But now listening to Khushi talks he was sure that her love for Arnav will never lessen, no matter what happens ... and by looking at Rohan's expression he knew that he understood it too that Khushi won't take it lightly if anyone tires to hurt Arnav.

Now he doesn't have to worry about his brother, because Khushi is here to take care of everything regarding Arnav and he doesn't need to talk to Rohan anymore, thought Akash with a smile.

He step forwards the greeted Khushi, "Hey Khushi" and then his eyes fell on Pakoras, "Oh wow .. Pakoras, you are awesome Khushi, I was feeling so hungry, Bhai makes me work too much sometimes, you have to tell him to take it easy, you know", said Akash as he went ahead and extend his hand towards the plate reserved for Arnav.

Khushi quickly takes the plate away, "This is for Arnavji, you take it from this one", said Khushi pointing to another plate.

"oh Acha, whats special in that? I want one from this lot only", said Akash in teasing tone as he tried to take the Pakora from the plate in Khushi's hand, who move it here and there to not allow Akash to take from it.

"Akash... stop it! They are less spicy one, for Arnavji only", said Khushi in stern tone.

"Ok baba", Akash said the take the pakoras from another plate, "mmm, so good".

"You make tea as well, great", said Akash and then count the cups, "Um Khushi Aman is here also, is there enough tea for him as well".

"Aman is here", said Khushi with a smile as she took a tray and place the plate in it with a mug filled with black coffee. It's been many days that she met Aman, she wanted to meet him.

"Yeah obviously, when bhai works from home, is it possible that Aman don't come here", said Akash as he popped another Pakora in his mouth.

Rohan felt outsider between their talks so he move from there, he was about to go out from door when Khushi called him, "Rohanji, if uncle is not much tired, can you ask him to come out. We all will have tea together".

Rohan was surprise that after their bitter talk, she was still behaving normally with him; he just nodded his head and went out.

Khushi turned to Akash who was busy in eating, Khushi take the other plate away from him, "Stop eating now ... Tell Arnavji and Aman to come out now, I am going to take all these in the gazebo", said Khushi in an ordered tone.

"Ok mam", said Akash and move out.

Khushi had made enough pakoras for everyone. Hari Prakash came there just then and helped Khushi to take the tea and everything outside in the gazebo.

Khushi has just arranged everything on the table in gazebo, when there was a car horn. Khushi smile and quickly went there, Anjali was back. Khushi smile as she move towards the car when it stopped in the porch.

Mohan quickly came out and open the back door; he took Arush in his arms, allowing Anjali to come out.

"Arush .. baby", Khushi said loudly as she saw Arush, who also saw her Mama and grinned, he made a loud happy noise when Khushi took him in her arms, "How are you now my shona?", said Khushi kissing on both cheek and then look at Anjali.

"He is much better Khushi and now his mama is here, he will be fit in no time", said Anjali ruffling Arush's hair.

"Anjali ji, I made tea and Pakoras for everyone", said Khushi gesturing towards gazebo.

"Wow, pakoras ... thanks Khushi", said Anjali and move towards gazebo. Anjali loves pakoras very much.

Arnav, Aman and Akash were already seated there. Anjali greeted them and take a seat, Khushi came there with Arush in her arms. Rohan and Rajat also came there ... Nani too came out to have the pakoras.

"No Arnavji, not from this plate", said Khushi quickly as she saw Arnav taking the pakora from other plate instead of the one place beside his coffee mug, "Take from these, I made less spicy ones for you".

Arnav smile at her and took the pakora from less spicy lot, "Thanks", he said while munching.

Nani and Rajat smiled seeing this while Aman, Akash and Anjali pass teasing smiles to each other.

Khushi started to play with Arush near the gazebo. When Anjali was done with her tea she asked Khushi to have hers and she will look after Arush.

After some time, they were done with their tea and snack. Anjali told Khushi that Arush needs a change of diaper.

"Khushi I think his bag is still in the car", said Anjali.

"Ok Anjali ji, you take him inside, I will bring the bag", said Khushi and went towards the car and Anjali move towards front door taking Arush with him.

Khushi took Arush's baby bag from the back seat, she was about to turn when her eyes fell on Raj who was standing few distance away. Khushi remember seeing his bruised nose and went towards him. Raj who was talking to another guard got alerted seeing Khushi.

"Mam", Raj tilted his head greeting Khushi.

"How is your (pointing toward his nose, which was still little red and a bit swollen) um wound?", asked Khushi little hesitatingly.

"Its fine Mam, nothing to worry about", said Raj, touched with her concern.

"I wanted to apologize on behalf of Arnavji and me, that you have to bare the consequence because of my mistake", said Khushi in an apologetic way.

Raj shakes his head, "No Mam, you don't need to apologize and it was not your mistake. I know and can understand ASR's anger. It is his care towards his loved ones. And ASR was right, it was my responsibility to look after you, I should have been more careful and we are trained for situation like these so ASR's anger was justified. He doesn't show but he does care for his employees, he was the one who called the doctor for my treatment and give me the day off", said Raj and Khushi smiled.

Raj then pointed towards the guard who he was talking to before, that guard was now sitting on chair reading something, and he seems younger than Raj in age, "You see that guard there Mam, he didn't get the chance to complete his studies and is a single earner of his family. ASR is bearing his fees for private courses. He was the one who arranged for private tuition for him. And there are more like him who ASR is helping indirectly. He may be arrogant and short temper boss but at the same time he is caring and kind to many people", said Raj with a pride in his voice, "So its ok Mam, I didn't mind his punch, although it did hurt", he chuckled lightly making Khushi smile too.

Khushi pat his arm, "I hope your wound heal soon" and then move from there.

She went towards the Gazebo, Rajat and Nani were coming towards porch. She saw Arnav talking to Aman and Akash was nearby talking on phone. She quickly went to Arnav.

Seeing her coming near him, Arnav stopped talking and turns towards her. He was about to open his mouth when Khushi quickly got on her toes and peck his cheek, "Ap bhut achey hein", said Khushi quickly in low tone, then turn and run towards the front door.

Arnav was dumbfounded at her gesture. Aman was grinning and Akash too was having a teasing smile as he also saw what happened. Rohan too saw that but his face remained expressionless, he moves inside with his mind full of many different thoughts about his earlier conversation with Khushi.

Arnav give a glare to Aman, "Don't you have to go somewhere?".

"Yeah I know, I am going", said Aman as he suppress his grin, "I guess it is futile to ask that you will be late, no?".

Arnav pressed his lips and went ahead. Aman grinned and looked at Akash who was also grinning, thinking that they got a new point to tease Arnav.

Khushi stopped when she reached outside Anjali's room. She knew after what she did, Arnav will demand the reason. She went inside and places the bag on bed. Anjali had taken Arush's clothes off. Khushi picked him up and went inside the washroom to clean him.

After some time --------------------

Arnav was ready in his 3 piece suite; he will go straight to exhibition venue after dropping Khushi and his family. He went to Anjali's room but found it empty. He went down and called Khushi's name.

Khushi came out of Nani's room, as she went there to bid goodbye to Nani.

"Khushi lets go, we will get late otherwise", said Arnav coming towards her.

"Ok Arnavji, I am ready", said Khushi and then turn to Anjali and Nani who also came out of room. Khushi bid them goodbye and move towards front door. Arnav too moved when Nani stopped him, "Chottey, I was thinking to invite Khushi's parents on lunch or may be dinner tomorrow. So can you extend the invite from me?".

"I don't think it will be a good idea Nani, they will be tired with the journey and then they have to settle in. Besides its Khushi's birthday this Monday, we can arrange for small celebration here and we can invite her family to stay for dinner then", said Arnav.

"Yes Nani, I think Chottey is right. They all must need some time to settle down and take care of things", said Anjali.

"Ok bitya, we will do that way then", said Nani with a smile and move inside her room.

Arnav turned to go when Anjali stopped him, "Small celebration here? so you're not planning anything special for her?", asked Anjali wiggling her eyebrows.

"Who said that? I have already planned everything", said Arnav and continue when Anjali open her mouth to probe more, "And no, I will not tell you anything about it, so don't try it". And then he moves towards the front door.

Anjali pouted and huff slightly irritated. She really wanted to know what he has planned; he had never done this for her birthday or anyone else. He only plans for business meetings or ventures. It was a new thing for Anjali so she was very curious to know what he will do.

If he won't tell him then she will ask Khushi about it, thought Anjali.

Khushi put Arush's bag in the backseat of Arnav's car and open the front door when it got lose by Arnav, who trapped her between him and car.

"What was that you did a while ago?", asked Arnav raising an eyebrow.

"Wo bus dil chaha toh ker diya", said Khushi averting her eyes. Arush, who was in her arms, got excited seeing his mother and father close. He grabs Arnav's tie and started to pull it. Khushi caught his hand to stop him.

"Acha, ager mera dil chahey aisa kerne ko toh ...", said Arnav looking at her face.

"Toh hum ne kahan roka ap ko", said Khushi shyly.

"Acha, aj subha toh roka tha", said Arnav in teasing tone.

"Wo .. um", Khushi look at him and then avert her eyes. Just then Arush pull Arnav's tie more making him lean in close to Khushi's face.

"I guess Arush too wants his father too kiss his mama", said Arnav and peck on her cheeks.

Khushi smile shyly at him and then got surprised when Arnav kissed Arush's cheek who squealed as Arnav's stubble itched his cheek.

He patted Arnav's cheek and then move to his face and places a kiss on Arnav's cheek.

Khushi was so happy to see it that she just kept looking at Arnav and Arush, who was smiling and making happy noises.

"Shall we go?", said Arnav opening the door for her. Khushi smile and sit in the car with Arush in her lap.

Shashi and Garima were very surprise to find Arnav at the station to pick them. Payal understood his gesture that it's because of Khushi that he is here. She had taken Arush is her arms and gave a teasing look to Khushi, pointing towards Arnav, who was telling the cooli there to put the luggage in his car. After they settle in the car with their luggage, Arnav drove from there towards Buaji's house

"Jeetey raho babua", Buaji blessed Arnav for dropping her family, "Come, I have just made tea for everyone".

"No thanks Buaji, I had my coffee. Anyways I have to go somewhere, I will have tea some other time", said Arnav politely.

"Ok babua", said Buaji and patted his shoulder, she went inside to pour tea for everyone else.

Arnav look at Shashi and Garima who was standing there, Khushi and Payal had gone inside as Arush was getting sleepy and cranky.

"Uncle, Aunty I have arranged a car for you all which will be here in the morning and also arranged for two people, who will help you in wedding preparations or anything else you want", said Arnav.

"Beta you don't have to do it, it was not needed", said Garima quickly.

"I know Aunty you think that it is not good to take help from son-in-law. Di says that when a girl gets married, her sasural becomes her real home and husband's family becomes the priority, right?", said Arnav and Garima nodded her head.

"When a girl can accept other's family as her own then why can't a son-in-law do that as well?", said Arnav, "I am not doing this as a favor but as a responsibility which I have towards my other family. You consider me a son right? then think that your son is doing this. And I don't want you and Buaji to have any problem in travelling and going to places, which I know is require in wedding preparations, and that way Khushi won't get worried as well".

Garima was very touched with his gesture, she went near him and run her hand on his face and cupped his cheek, "God bless you beta". Arnav smile and then look at Shashi, "uncle I wanted to talk with you about something".

Shashi nodded and move outside with him. Arnav called Raj on phone and asked him to come forward. Raj came there with another guard.

"Uncle this is Raj and Jignesh, they will be here for the security purpose, I wanted you to know so that you don't get worry seeing them around you", said Arnav and Shashi nodded, though somewhat reluctant about the whole arrangement.

"If you have an problem you can call them and they will take care of it", said Arnav and then turn to Raj, "I don't want any mistake Raj".

"Yes Sir", said Raj and then he and Jignesh move from there.

"Uncle you don't have to worry, its just to make sure that you people don't get disturb by media or reporters", said Arnav.

Shashi nodded understanding the matter.

"Um uncle there is one nother thing", said Arnav little hesitatingly, "I wanted your permission".

Next day - Sunday Night - Around 8 pm -----------------

"Don't give me excuses NK", said Khushi in an angry tone, "Your work is more important or me? (Pause) No keep your wishes with you, wish me when you come here or else don't (Pause) I don't want any gift, I want my best friend to be here on my birthday (Pause) I don't want to talk to you now, goodbye!".

Khushi cut the call in anger, her phone ring again and then again, but she didn't pick up.

NK was stuck with work in Mumbai and couldn't come to Dehli and Khushi was very upset with him that he won't be here on her birthday. Since the time they had become friends 5 years ago, they had always celebrated each other birthday's together.

Payal came inside their room and saw a sulking Khushi, "Khushi, Nikhil is on the call", said Payal extending her cell phone to her but Khushi turned away. Payal shakes her head understanding that she is still upset and it was going to take time to make her understand.

"Nikhil, she is not in a mood to talk now. You don't worry; I will talk to her ok", said Payal and cut the call.

"Khushi what is this childishness? He is not sitting there for fun; he has a job and responsibility to fulfill. If he could, he would have come here na, he is really stuck with work", said Payal in a stern manner.

"I know Jiji, but we always celebrated our birthdays together and now it will be the first time since our friendship that he won't be here on my birthday", said Khushi in a sad tone.

Payal sighed and then a thought came in her mind ... she smile and sit on bed next Khushi, "So what if he is not here, you celebrate your birthday with Arnavji (Payal nudge her shoulder with Khushi's) its your first birthday with him right ... so you should be thinking on it".

Khushi pouted, "But Jiji, I won't be able to see him at midnight na, and even tomorrow. I will have to wait till evening to see him".

No ... you won't have to wait till evening, thought Payal with a smile.

"Where is Arush Jiji?", asked Khushi

"Oh he is fighting with Buaji and Amma is trying to feed him", said Payal giggling a little, "He is getting smart ... he makes Amma run after him".

"Oh I will go and see, Amma is already tired ... I will put him to sleep", said Khushi and stood up.

"He won't sleep that soon tonight, he is very excited to see us around him", said Payal.

Khushi went out of room to see what Arush is up to. Payal look at her cell and wait for the message that she supposed to get anytime now.

And after few minutes her cell beeped, she read the message and smile. She went out to the living room, she saw Arush in Garima's lap and Khushi was wiping his face. Payal saw her father sitting on other sofa and gesture at him, showing her cell phone. He nodded his head and Payal went back in room typing the reply.

"Khushi bitya ... can you bring my shawl from outside? I forget it there earlier", said Shashi.

"Ji Baba", said Khushi looking at her father and then turns to Arush, "Be a good boy Arush, no masti". Arush gives his mischievous smile in return.

Khushi went out of house and look here and there to locate her father's shall. She move to right side and then turn a corner, where Buaji hang clothes for drying, but didn't see the shawl. She was about to turn when she felt a soothing breeze and Arnav's thought came in her mind and then next second she felt an arm around her stomach, "Hi", came his husky voice

"Arnavji", She gasped and turn her head ...she saw Arnav behind her, with a smile playing on his lips.

"What are you doing here?", asked Khushi surprised.

"I came here to take you with me", said Arnav.

"Now? But I can't Arnavji", said Khushi looking towards the window which was closed.

Arnav took her hand and move towards the front of house.

"Arnavji, what are you doing? Someone will see", said Khushi worried about her Buaji's reaction.

"Relax Khushi, they know that I am here", said Arnav.

"What? Who knows?", asked Khushi.

"We know", came Payal's voice from front door.

Khushi look at Payal confuse with whats going on, "Jiji, what is happening? Will someone tell me?" Khushi stop and tug at Arnav's hand.

"You will get to know soon, enjoy!!", said Payal giving Khushi a wink and teasing smile, "Don't worry about Arush ok, we will handle him", saying that Payal went inside and locked the door.

Khushi's mouth open in O, and then she felt a tug at her hand. Arnav drag her to his car. He made her sit in the car and drove from there.

"Arnavji, what will Amma, Baba think about this? Just turn back the car", said Khushi little irritated.

"Khushi I think you didn't heard what Payal said ... they all know, your parents and Buaji too, that I am taking you with me tonight", said Arnav

"What? And they agree just like that? Why they didn't tell me? Why didn't you tell me?", asked Khushi in her speed.

"Because sweet heart, we don't tell about surprises", said Arnav giving Khushi a smile.

"Surprises? about wha...", she was about to ask when she remember that it was the night before her birthday.

"For my birthday?", asked Khushi astonished.

"Yup or what else", replied Arnav.

"oh Arnavji, tell me where are we going? whats the surprise? Are we going to farm house?", asked Khushi in excitement. Arnav planning birthday surprise for her made her happy and very excited.

"Well dear, when it is a surprise then it won't be reveal before its time. So just relax and wait ... wo kia kaha tha tum ne, sabar ka phal meetha hota ha", said Arnav smirking.

Khushi pouted and lean back in chair, she knew it is futile to ask him or probe him, because he won't tell her anything. So she didn't have any choice but to wait.

After some time, she realized the way they were going. The road goes to AR and soon she saw the office building.

"AR? I thought we will be going to farm house", said Khushi looking at Arnav who just shrug his shoulders in response.

Arnav parked the car in underground parking and they went to the lift which was exclusively for Arnav's use. The lift open and they came out to an open space. They were on the very top of the building as she saw chopper in front of her. She grabs Arnav's arm, "Arnavji where are you taking me?" asked Khushi little worried as she looked down at her clothes, she was wearing her simple pink shalwar kameez. What if he took her somewhere between poeple? She is in her night clothes.

Arnav squeezes her hand, "Khushi you trust me right?". Khushi nodded her head at him.

"Then come, there is nothing to worry, I am here na with you", said Arnav in assuring tone as he guided Khushi to chopper. She saw Amit and another person, who probably was the pilot.

"Amit, everything ready?", asked Arnav as he guided Khushi inside the chopper.

"Yes Sir, should we start?", said Amit.

"Yeah go ahead", said Arnav and sit beside Khushi, he wound his arm around her and tug her close. Arnav gives her a smile and Khushi close her eyes, as she snuggle more into Arnav. Soon the chopper was in the air. Khushi was feeling goose bumps and butterflies in her stomach due to anxiousness and anticipation of where Arnav is taking her and what he has planned for her birthday.

TO BE CONTINUED ... IN NEXT PART ...

Bubbles762015-11-25 05:19:07