Chapter 119

A Day later - 27 Sep - Arshi's Haldi Day ------

Arnav looked at the yellow sticky paste in a bowl, placed in the decorative red tray, with distaste. He frowned, made a face and then finally looks at his sister.

"Ok, lets just get over with this quick", said Arnav and sit on the small stool, placed for him in the large living room of the guest house, they have rented in Mumbai for 5 days.

As decided by elders the Mehendi and Sangeet function were held in Dehli and the Haldi & Marriage Ceremony are going to be held in Mumbai. The Raizadas and Gupats have left for Mumbai the next day after Sangeet Ceremony and the Haldi was schedule for the next day.
Khushi's Dadi wanted to have the wedding in Luckhnow as according to her, that's the actual ancestral home of Guptas, and the bride's bidaai should be done from their home. But Shashi knew well that Arnav will never agree with this, and seeing the worried glances between Arnav's Nani and Mamaji he understood that they are also thinking about the same. So he put them out of their tension and told with finality that Haldi and Marriage will happen in Mumbai.
His mother started to protest but got quite when Shashi mention that Khushi would also prefer the same as that's the place where she had spent her last 11 years and actually grown up.
His mother knew well whats Shashi was pointing at, as she had never accepted Khushi as her grand-daughter and Shashi have to move to Mumbai with his family. She thought to stay quiet, not wanting to face embarrassment but cannot helped but felt bad that her say was not given an iota of importance.

Devyani thanked Shashi, because she won't have to deal with Arnav's temper on this issue or spent her energy in making him agree to something he hates. And her respect for Shashi grew manifold when he said that he knows that their children would want the same and Khushi's happiness means more to him than anything else.
And they both know that Khushi's happiness is in Arnav's happiness and vice versa.

"Chottey, you need to ...", Anjali was saying when Arnav shot her an angry look and then look around at the few people gathered for his Haldi ... it was limited to only family and very close friends. He never liked being called Chottey with audience around, which is not his family.

"Um ... Arnav, I think you might have to take your shirt off", said Anjali.

"What? No way!!", exclaimed Arnav as he give a look towards Nani's very good friend Nitu, Shalini Masi, Mamiji, 2 of her close friends and other females present there . He would never take his shirt off in front of them.

"Do you want to spoil your shirt with this?", said Anjali as she crouch down and place the tray in front of Arnav's feet. Everyone in the family knows well that how fussy Arnav is in matter of his clothes and cleanliness.

Arnav looked at the Haldi paste and then at his sister, "Whats the need to take off the shirt? I am not planning to take a bath in that", said Arnav in low stern tone, shoting a look of distaste to Haldi paste.

Anjali sighed, her brother is too much sometimes, "We have to apply this haldi on your face, hands, arms, shoulders, neck, legs and feet.", telling Arnav like a teacher explaining to a child about his homework.

"See bhai, I guess you will be bathing in the Haldi today", said Akash teasingly, but quickly schooled his expression when Anjali shot him an angry look.

Arnav's eyes widened a bit hearing that where this sticky paste will be applied on him. He makes a sour face, "Di, just apply it on my face, hands and foot".

"Oh no no, a ritual should be properly fulfilled, right Nani, Rahul?", said Anjali looking at her Nani and husband. And they both nodded their head suppressing their smiles.

"So its better that you take your shirt off because it doesn't matter to us if its get spoiled", said Anjali ... she too can be stubborn like her brother.

Rahul who was seeing this banter, knows that they can keep on with it for hours ... but this is not the time for it. He went near Arnav and grabs his arm, "Come with me Arnav", as he pulls Arnav into a standing position.

"Rahul, where are you taking him? We have to start with the Haldi", said Anjali as Rahul takes Arnav towards his room.

"2 mins bus", he shouted back and enters Arnav room.

"Jiju, what you are doing?", asked Arnav as he watched Rahul opening his suit case, which was still half unpacked.

"Solving the matter and saving time", said Rahul and throws a white vest at Arnav, "Put this on, go quick".

When Arnav didn't move for another 4 seconds Rahul continued, "Come on Arnav, do you really want to be half naked in front of those aunties? I don't mind but ...", Rahul wasn't even finished when Arnav quickly take off his cream color t-shirt and put on the vest. Rahul suppress his smiles, secretly he likes this part of Arnav, a little childish attitude hidden beneath his ASR one.

They both went out and Anjali presses her lips seeing Arnav in a vest now, she thought Rahul would make Arnav agree to take off the shirt. Seeing the dislike on his wife's face, Rahul came near her, "You know it's the best we can make him agree, and I am sure he won't mind getting his vest spoiled ... a better choice to throw away than shirt, right?".

"Hmm ...", Anjali hummed and before she could say anything else Arnav spoke up irritatingly, "Can we just start now?", he wants this to get over soon.

"Ok baba we are starting, its not good for health to be angry always", said Anjali as she sat down on floor near Arnav and asked to Nani to start the ritual.

Nani put a small tilak on Arnav's head first and then rubs her fingers coated with haldi on his both cheeks. Anjali giggles as Arnav squeeze his eyes shut.

"Wow, never knew ASR was afraid of haldi", said Aman in teasing tone. Arnav opens his eyes instantly and shot him a deathly glare. Aman quickly averts his eyes.

"Come on ASR, its just haldi paste. You are acting as if its something infectious", said Lavanya suppressing her giggles, "You know haldi is actually very good for skin".

"Yeah right!", Arnav huff in irritation and presses his lips as Mamiji applied the haldi over his both cheeks and arms.

"Miss tip top is right Arnav bitwa, your Mami boootiful skin is all becaz of this haldi", said Mamiji while applying haldi on him, "And after this our Arnav bitwa will have a boootiful and shiny skinwa".

Arnav makes a face at this remark and other share a laugh seeing his sour expressions. It was a miracle in itself that Arnav was sitting here and letting others apply this sticky paste to him. The person, who runs away from all these ceremonies and ritual and was never interested to attend them, is now sitting in middle of ladies and few gents for his very own Haldi.

Mamaji was next ... who applied haldi on his face and arms, then came Rahul who applied on his face, arms and little on his shoulders.

Anjali pulls his trousers up so that they can apply haldi to his legs. Arnav instantly pull his legs back, "Di what are you doing?", said Arnav with gritted teeth while lowering the trouser.

"Uffo ho, I am not taking your trouser off Arnav", said Anjali is stern low tone for only him to hear, "Just a little up to apply haldi on your leg".

"Di ...", Arnav literally whined like a child making Anjali giggle, "Please my Chottey, just this once", said Anjali pinching his cheek a little making him more grumpy but he didn't protest when Anjali pull his trousers up, just below the knees.

Anjali then applied haldi to his face, arms, shoulders, legs and feet. There was a big smile on her face while doing so, as she was very much enjoying this.

Next Lavanya push herself forward to apply the haldi, she sit down in front of Arnav giving him mischievous looks. Then she takes a haldi on her fingers and applies to his cheeks, going down his neck and then little on chest.

Aman looks at the way Lavanya's hand was going from Arnav's neck to his chest, her movement was slow ... her eyes admiring Arnav's form... he just couldn't take it and move forwards, "Lavanya hurry up, we all are waiting".

"Gosh Aman, wait na", said Lavanya giving him a pouty look and then takes more haldi on his fingers and apply haldi on Arnav's legs ... she laugh inwardly, knowing perfectly well that what it is doing to Aman and soon enough her hand was in Aman's hand as he pulls her up.

"Ok now, my turn", said Aman and before anyone could say something, he quickly crouch down and apply some haldi on Arnav's arms. Then he stood up and move back taking Lavanya with him.

Next came Nitu and applied Haldi on Arnav followed by Shalini Masi, Minnie, Dhruv and 2 of Mamiji's very good and close friends.

"What was that?", said Aman in irritating voice taking Lavanya to the corner.

"What was what? I was just applying haldi", said Lavanya with a shrug.

"Really? I doesn't seem to me, it was like you ... you were touching him", said Aman in same tone.

Lavanya controlled not to giggle, looking at the Aman's annoyed expressions, "Well what can I do, he has such a great body", said Lavanya and look over at Arnav. Aman quickly come in front of her, blocking her vision.

"What did you just say?", asked Aman as if confirming again.

"What?", Lavanya look at Aman innocently, "You have to agree ASR is HOT! No?".

"yeah right, Last time I remember, someone was saying I was so hot while making ...", Aman stopped himself from completing the sentence.

Lavanya bit inside of her cheek looking at Aman, "Well you are hot, no doubt", said Lavanya and a smile appear on Aman's face which got off instantly listening to Lavanya's next word.

"But ASR is more hot than you", said Lavanya and take step aside to move away when Aman grabs her arm, "Let this wedding finish, then I will show you who is hotter", his tone stern and challenging. Saying that he left from there and joined Akash and Uday.

Lavanya turns her face and smile widely, she just loves to rile up Aman. When he is jealous, he puts in more effort ... more passion into their intimacy, or more like their love making. And she just loves those moments ... her Aman shedding all his inhibitions.

Everyone was done applying Haldi to Arnav and only Akash and Uday were left. Akash gesture Uday and he nodded, a silent communication passed between them. Uday move away for a minute and came back ... his hands were behind his back and he stood at Arnav's back and Akash came in front crouching down.

"Bhai you are already covered with haldi everywhere, where should apply it?", said Akash in mischievous tone.

"Akash", Arnav give him a warning glare ... Akash's expression were a tell-tale that something is cooking in his mind and soon it came out as Arnav gasped loud when Akash had put his hand in Arnav vest and rub his hand all over his front.

"What the ... AKASH!!", Arnav yelled as he stood up and soon another what the escape his mouth as Uday put his hand under Arnav's vest from behind and rubbed the haldi all over his back.

Uday and Akash had already made another big bowl of haldi as they decided to put haldi all over Arnav ... as this was the one time opportunity in their life, that they will get to be naughty with Arnav.

Nani, Mamaji, Mamiji, Rahul, Minnie, Dhruv and Shalini Masi gasped in shock surprise and started to worry about Arnav's reaction ... which will be shouting the house down with his anger.

Meanwhile Akash, Uday, Aman, Anjali and Lavanya tried to suppress their laughter.

"Sorry bhai, but we just can't stop ourselves ... we will never gona get this chance again ... so ...", Akash was saying when he stopped shocked.

Arnav had taken a big amount of haldi from the bowl which was in Uday's hand and applied it all over Akash's face.

Everyone gasped and stood in shock surprise at Arnav's unusually calm demeanor.

"Yeah you were saying Akash?", said Arnav ... soon there were giggles and chuckles around.

"Good going Arnav bhai", said Uday laughing seeing Akash's face.

"yeah?", said Arnav and in a flash Uday had haldi all over his face too, "How is this now?".

"Bhai ...", Uday whined but he was not the one to be remained behind, soon he takes some more haldi and applied Arnav's forefead, going down to his nose and lips.

And then next moment the haldi fight ... or more, haldi game started between Uday, Akash and Arnav. Aman, Lavanya, Dhruv, Minnie, Mamiji and Shalini Masi joined as well... laughing and running behind each other. Soon there was haldi on everybody'd face except Mamaji, Nani, Rahul and Anjali.

"Bhai ...", Akash called to Arnav, "Di ... Di ...", he pointed towards Anjali who was hiding behind Nani.

"No ... No", Anjali quickly shook her head and run to other side but soon Akash and Arnav catch her and both applied haldi to her on either side of her face.

"Arrrghh ...", Anjali whined and slapped both Arnav and Akash on their arms ... and then couldn't help but smile wide seeing her brother's happy faces.

Nani quickly told Mamaji to take their picture. Mamaji take his cell out and took their pictures. Rahul who was standing away from all this chaos was doing the same since the fight started ... taking pictures. He wanted to capture this carefree ... laughing Arnav, to be cherish later.

Mamaji shows his cell phone to Nani, who smiles and run her finger over the screen, which showed Anjali leaning on Arnav's who was bathe in Haldi, his face titled upward a little and a full blown smile on his face.

One or two tear slipped from Nani's eyes, which she wiped away, "I wish she was alive today to see her children happiness", remembering her daughter.

Mamaji wound his arm around his mother, "Ma ... Jiji is watching from above ... she is happy just like us ... I am sure of it".

Nani sniffed and tried to suppress her sobs as Mamaji rubs her back.

She quickly wiped off her tears seeing Anjali coming to them.

"Nani ... look what they have done", Anjali called out to Nani, as usual complaining about her brothers. Nani smiles seeing her grand-daughter's pouty face and pinch her nose as she came near, "And who is asking you to stop ... go do the same to them and I think Rahul bitwa is still left".

And with that everyone's attention went towards Rahul who was standing on the stair, at other corner of room.

"Oh no ...", said Rahul making a worried face as he runs towards the front door with Arnav, Anjali, Aman, Akash, Uday, Lavanya, Dhruv and Minnie running behind him. While all the elders laugh seeing their grown up children turning into kids as they grab Rahul ... stumbling him to ground and applying haldi all over him.

After some time Nani told everyone to freshen up as it was time for lunch and then the ladies have to leave for Gupta house for Khushi's haldi. Anjali went to kitchen and grab the tray, having haldi bowl, which they have made to take for Khushi. She quickly went to Arnav's room and went in.

"Wait ... wait", said Anjali as she saw Arnav wiping the haldi from his face with spare piece of cloth.

"Oh no ... not again...I have more than enough of that on me already", said Arnav in annoyance.

"Arey baba, I am not going to put it on you", said Anjali as she came near him.

Then she wipes some haldi from his face, neck and then arm and rubs her finger over the edge of bowl ... the wiped off haldi went into the contents of the bowl. Anjali then takes the stick made out of big leaves and stirs the bowl mixing both haldis.

"What is that for?", asked Arnav confuse of what Anjali did.

"This haldi is for Khushi and it is considered good omen when some of haldi off from groom is applied to the bride", said Anjali with a smile.

(A/N: not sure about this, but i have read that somewhere and remembered while writing ... no offense to anyone here)

"oh ...", said Arnav and look at the haldi paste ... a small smile appearing on his lips thinking that the haldi which was applied on him, will now be applied on Khushi.

"Ok now you refresh up and come for lunch", said Anjali and went out of his room.

Arnav turn and saw his reflection in the mirror ... his lips pressed in annoyance.

"Dammit Akash ...let your time come, I won't leave you", said Arnav and went in washroom.

---------------------- Around 4 pm - Gupta's House

Garima and Buaji welcome Nani, Nitu, Mamiji, Rahul, Anjali, Lavanya, Minnie and Shalini Masi inside their house. They went to living room, the furniture was shifted away, one wall had sofas aligned to it and the opposite wall was decorated for Haldi. Garima called Payal to bring Khushi.

Khushi came out wearing a pretty yellow viscose A line lehenga, paired with pink choli. Lehenga skirts had paisley butis all over and heavy zari embroidered gota lace adored the hemline. The dupatta was of pink color with gold border and gold zari embroidery patches on it.

(Khushi's Haldi dress)

Khushi was wearing the yellow white floral jewelry with it.

(See Image -- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/175218241724536890/)

Aman had already delivered her clothes and accessories today morning before Arnav's haldi.

Garima and Buaji smile seeing their daughter. Buaji quickly went to her and took her balaiyan. Payal make Khushi sit on the small settee. Her Chachi's and Chacha's were sitting on the sofas placed on opposite side, her cousins were sitting on the carpeted floor.

Poonam and Divya sit on the floor near Khushi. Aashima was upstairs, in Khushi's room, keeping a watch on sleeping Arush. He usually has his afternoon nap from 4-6pm.

Anjali came near her and placed the tray, having the haldi bowl, on the small table. She then sit beside Khushi and lifts her chin.

"Nazar na lagey meri Bhabhi ko, aj toh khil rahi ha", said Anjali with a teasing smile.

Khushi mouth's open slightly at her endearment of bhabhi' word.

"Aur haldi k baad toh aur ronak ajaye gi bhabiji k chehre per", said Lavanya sitting on other side of Khushi.

Payal, Buaji and Khushi's friends smile hearing their statements. Garima left to call Khushi's Dadi, who was resting in Payal's room upstairs, and her father who was in his room.

"You two will never change right?", said Khushi look both at Anjali and Lavanya. They both shakes their heads at a same time making Khushi giggle.

"And whats with bhabhi today?", asked Khushi.

"Well you're marrying my brother, so obviously you will become my bhabhi no?", said Anjali.

"Oh no Anjali ji, you're elder than me ... please call me Khushi", said Khushi.

"Only when you'll call me Di or Anjali instead of Anjaalii jiii", said Anjali stressing on the last word.

"And me too ... call me Lavanya ... Lavanyaji ... make me feel I have become an aunty or something", said Lavanya with a sour face making Khushi smile.

"I have been calling you both like that since the start ... so why now?", said Khushi.

"Arey now our relation will change na, you will become my Bhabhi", said Anjali.

"Yeah and as ASR is my boss, so that makes you (Lavanya pointing to Khushi) my boss to. So I guess I should be calling you Khushi Mam", said Lavanya wiggling her eyebrow.

"Oh no Mam please ...", said Khushi instantly.

"Then ... you have to agree with us", said Lavanya

"oh ... um ok .. Lavanyaji", said Khushi and quickly corrected, "Lavanya", making Lavanya smile and side hug her.

"And me ... me", said Anjali poking Khushi's shoulder.

"Um you will be my Anjali Di", said Khushi.

Anjali smiled and felt a little overwhelmed hearing Khushi call her that. She had always wanted a little sister. Anjali side hug Khushi and peck on her hair, "Thanks sweety ... I have always wanted a little sister ... and now I got one".

"Soch lo Bitya, this will be one crazy sister you will have", said Buaji, "She can be total sanki sometimes".
Khushi pouted at her Buaji, "I am not that sanki".

"Arey Buaji, that's have the actual fun in it ... our life will be full of it with Khushi around", said Anjali with love.

"Anjali bitya is right Madhumati ji", said Nani as she came near, "She had already brought so much smile in my Arnav's", remembering Arnav's laugh and carefree demeanor from few hours ago.

"I think we can all talk later, lets start with the haldi", cames Khushi's Dadi's voice from behind Nani. She came forward with a small thal in her hand. Nani, Buaji and Payal move aside giving her the space. Lavanya and Anjali also stood and went to other side.

"Yes yes, we should start", said Nani with a smile.

Dadi sit beside Khushi and place a tilak on Khushi's head. She place the thal on the small table and takes little haldi from the bowl and put it on Khushi's cheek. There was no smile on her face ... it was as usual expression less whenever Khushi is infront of her. Today being Khushi's haldi didn't make a difference in her expressions as well and Khushi was well use-to to it by now. So she just smiled a little so that others don't suspect something.

Dadi stood up and went away and sit on the sofa. Garima, Sriti and Buaji came ahead and put Haldi on Khushi's face and arms. Then Shashi came forward and apply haldi on Khushi. He patted her head as Khushi give him a wide smile. He move back and went to Garima, standing little away.

Payal came to her with a small stool, and crouch down near Khushi, she gestures Khushi to put her feet on the small stool and then lifted her lehenga skirt up to her knees. She was about to take the haldi from the bowl when Khushi stopped her and gesture her to come more close. Payal leaned towards her and Khushi whispers something in her ear.

Payal smiled and then went to Rahul who had just come in with a big thal in his hand, covered with red cloth, and Raj behind him was carrying another big thal.

"Rahul bhai, come on apply haldi to Khushi", said Payal.
"Me?", said Rahul little confuse and surprise as he looked around the room, filled with ladies only.

"Yes yes, you", said Payal and takes Rahul's hand and bring him near to Khushi.

"Arey Payal what are you doing? Don't you know only ladies from the groom side apply haldi to the bride", said one of Khushi's Chachi.

"Yes, and they are also not allowed to be present in the Haldi ceremony as well", said Khushi's Dadi.

"Don't worry, I was just here to drop Khushi's bridal attire", said Rahul putting the thal at the corner of sette behind Khushi. He turned to go but Khushi grabs his hand.

Rahul look at Khushi questioningly as she shakes her head gesturing him to not go.

"Rahul bhai, do you know why I put this red thread on your wrist?", said Khushi touching the now faded red thread that Khushi had put on his wrist on day of his own Haldi.

FLASHBACK

Khushi bring her hand forward showing him a red thread.

"I know its not rakhsha bandhan", said Khushi with a giggle ... "but I wanted to give you this rakhsha dhaga ... I saw Anjali ji put the same on Arnavji and Akash ... so I asked her if I could have one so that I can put it on you", said Khushi with sisterly love.

Rahul did not know how many times he could get overwhelmed with the feelings but today it seems like not stopping of it. With out saying anything he held his right wrist up and Khushi happily wound the red thread around his wrist.

"I pray to Devi Maiya that she protects you always and bring happiness in your life", said Khushi when she finished the knot. Rahul put same hand on her head caressing it. Just then he remember and say, "well I don't have anything to give you now ... but I promise I will give you soon". Khushi put her hands on hips, "you better ... I wont let you forget that easily". Rahul chuckled and wound his arms around her back.

FLASHBACK Ends.

Rahul was overwhelmed remembering the day of his haldi, which he thought will not happen as he doesn't have any of his family member around. But Khushi went ahead and declare herself to be his sister and she and Payal did the ritual of his haldi.

Rahul nodded his head in answer of his Khushi.

"It was not only for the name-sake. When I put this on your wrist, I accepted you my brother whole heartedly", said Khushi touching the red thread.

"So being my elder brother you have to apply haldi on me before Jiji", said Khushi with a smile, her eyes showing admiration and sisterly love.

NK smiles, only his Khushi can be this loving and selfless, taking care of everyone around her ... making them apart of her happiness and life.

Rahul eyes got moist hearing this, he look over to Anjali who was having the same tender expression and moist eyes. She knew well how much Rahul misses his sister, who had passed away long ago due to cancer. He was very happy that day when he told her that Khushi had tied the raksha thread on his wrist. She nodded her head, telling him to go ahead. Nani, Mamiji and others also smile at this, expect for Khushi's Dadi and Chachi's. They hated it whenever Khushi does something against her saying. But with Shashi present they cannot start the argument, as they know well by now that he does not appreciate someone saying something to his darling daughter Khushi.

(A/N: I have made it up this thing for this part, as i wanted to show Rahul-Khushi moment ... no offense to anyone.)

"Khushi is right Rahul bhai", said Payal as she stood next to Rahul, "She put this thread on your before your marriage to Anjaliji right ... so technically you are our brother first then Arnavji's Jijaji", saying that she give a confident look to her Dadi.

Felling that he was still somewhat reluctant, Garima move forward, "Beta kia soch rahey, chalo haldi lagao apni choti behen ko".

Rahul look up at her in surprise and found Garima blinking her eyes at him in assurance. Garima knows that her daughters always wanted a brother of their won. Though they had Arjun and Anki, their chachas son ... but they weren't close, they hardly interact and Kunal and Anuj were in another city, only visiting once or twice a year. So they sometimes crave for brotherly love and protection.

Rahul crouch down, unable to say anything due to overwhelming emotions bursting inside him. He takes haldi on his fingers and applies to Khushi's cheeks, arms and then on feet. He stood up, bend forward and give a peck over Khushi's hair.

"Thank you Behna", whispers Rahul only for Khushi to hear.

"Abh bholna nahi ... werna saza miley gi", said Khushi in serious tone.

"Nahi bholun ga ... Khabi nahi", said Rahul with love and gives another peck of her hair and move back. Rahul went to Anjali, who side hugs him as soon as he came near.

"Acha gi, toh hum kon hain?", said Kunal feigning a hurt tone, "Hum ko bhool gayi kia?".

"Acha toh kia ap yaad kertey hain humain, 3-4 mahiney mein ik phona ata hai ap ka", said Khushi in complaining tone.

"Absolutely right", Payal agree with Khushi, "Whenever we call you always are busy with your work projects".

"Being an architect is not an easy job you know", said Kunal.

"Bus bus ... no excuses ... ager importance chahiye toh importance deni bhi hogi", said Khushi.

"Bilkul", Payal agreed again.

"Good Payal, don't leave him ... he doesn't even give time to his own mother", said Sriti Masi.

"Ma ...", Kunal whined a bit making others laugh.

"What Ma? Tell me if I am wrong", said Sriti.

Kunal raise his hands in surrender, "You all win ok ... I will just sit back", said Kunal and quickly applied haldi to Khushi and then tweak her nose.

"Haw Kunal Bhaiya", said Khushi with a pout. Kunal smile at her and then went back.

"I am ok", said Rahul before Anjali could questions him, "You go, I will be fine" and push her a little. Anjali smiles and then went to Khushi and sit beside her.

Payal had already applied haldi to Khushi. Her Chachi's and Chacha's came next and applied haldi to Khushi. Then her cousins and friends applied haldi on her.

"I will go and send Aashima", said Poonam.

"Bring Arush down if he is awake ok", said Khushi a bit loudly to Poonam who nodded back.

"How he is doing Khushi?", asked Anjali.

Nani was applying haldi to Khushi now.

"Oh he is fine, as usual my naughty baby", said Khushi with a big smile, "He is so intelligent Anjali ji, you know ... he now reads poems along with me ... although not proper words but he knows poems by their tunes ... and ...", Khushi was saying excitedly but stopped seeing Anjali's stern expression.

"Anjali ji?", said Anjali in serious tone.

"Opps .. Anjali Di", said Khushi sheepishly. Anjali smiles, "That's better".

Khushi then tells her more about Arush latest activities while Nani, Nitu, Mamiji and Shalini Masi applied haldi to Khushi.

Rahul went to Shashi, "Uncle ji, I will take my leave now".

"Arey no beta, we are not letting you go without having some tea and food", said Shashi and Garima instantly agreed and before Rahul could protest, "We are not hearing anything ... if you are Khushi's brother then it makes you our son ... samjhey". Rahul smiles at Garima's stern tone, which was filled with mother's scolding. He nodded his head in agreement making Garima smile.

"Come beta, sit with us here", said Shashi and take Rahul to other corner where Kunal and Anuj was sitting on chairs which were placed there. They sit down and started to talk about tomorrow's wedding.

Anuj and Minnie applied haldi on Khushi and then move back giving way to Aashima.

"Arush is sleeping, Poonam is there with him", said Aashima before Khushi could question her. She knows well by now that how much Khushi cares for Arush.

Aashima move forward to apply haldi when NK nudge her and went forward. "Oyee ...", Aashima shouted angrily at him.

"Chottey baad mein, pehle batrey", said NK, he was out doing some work and just came in ... and as usual he would never let Aashima take the lead from him

"You're just a year older to me ... old man", said Aashima annoyingly and NK stick his tongue out to her.

Khushi and Naina shakes their head at their banter while Anjali and Lavanya enjoyed it.

"NK ...", Khushi said his name in a warning as he wiggle his eyebrows at her while taking the haldi paste from bowl then he applied it to Khushi's face, chin, little on neck and then on legs and arms.

"There all done", said NK and then move back. Naina was next who applied some haldi to her hands and arms. She move back and Aashima came forward giving an angry look to NK as if telling him that she will get back to him for this.

NK give back equal angry stare, Naina swatted his arm and gesture him to move back, "You never left a chance to tease her".

"Well neither does she ... relax sweety ... we both know that we don't mean it", said NK with a smile and then was called away by Garima for some work.

Aashima smile wide at Khushi as she put generous amount of haldi over her face, neck, arms, legs and feet.

"Aashiii ...", said Khushi in annoyance and put some of haldi on Aashima's face too.

"Wait you ...", said Aashima and put more haldi over Khushi's face and forehead.

"uffo .. stop it you two", Garima came there quickly seeing them starting the haldi fight, "Didn't I warn you both that I do not want any kind masti or your naughtiness with haldi", she said in warning tone.

"Aunty that's not fair", Aashima pouted, "whats the fun if you don't play with haldi".

"What are you? Little kids?", said Garima in stern tone, "Ma ji is already upset and I do not want to add another thing to the list ... so behave". Garima warned them and move from there ... but her eyes were going back to Khushi and Aashima after every few seconds.

"Seriously Khushi your Dadi needs to loosen up a bit", said Aashima leaning to Khushi, "Should I add some vodka in her juice?".

"Aashi ... don't you dare", said Khushi swatting her arm. Anjali and Lavanya giggles at this.

"wow ... vodka will surely make her loose ... but more than just her mood", said Lavanya while giggling. Khushi too couldn't stop her smile.

Lavanya takes the haldi and look at Khushi trying to find some empty spot to apply ... then she giggles remembering Arnav's state, "You're bathe in haldi just like ASR".

Khushi look at Lavanya questioningly. Lavanya passes her cell phone to Anjali, "Show her Anji". She put haldi on Khushi feet and legs.

Anjali open the photo gallery and click on Arnav's pic and show it to Khushi.

Arnav had haldi all over and he was putting some on Akash, both brothers have smile on their face.

"Is it really Arnavji?", asked Khushi in surprise looking at his pictures as Anjali scroll through.

"Yup ...", said Anjali and then she and Lavanya told Khushi how Akash and Uday applied haldi to Arnav and in return Arnav applied haldi to them and then how they all were running after each other playing with haldi.

Khushi was very happy listening to what Arnav had done, she just couldn't take her eyes of Arnav's smiling face.

"Lavanyaji, can you send me those please?", said Khushi looking at Arnav's pic.

"Sure Khushi Mam", said Lavanya making Khushi look at her with a pout.

"Ok ok Lavanya ... now ok ... please send me all of them", said Khushi.

"Sure", said Lavanya with a smile taking her cell phone from Anjali.

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

Aman entered Arnav's room with a garment bag in one hand and a shopping bag in other.

"Here ASR, your sherwani", said Aman placing the bags on bed.

Arnav made a face and then sighed thinking, Just one more day Arnav ... then you won't have to wear these clothes.

Arnav nodded his head at Aman and then look down at laptop. He was sitting on the bed with his back to headrest and laptop on his lap.

"Wow your skin does look shiny", said Aman coming close to Arnav.

"Shut up Aman", said Arnav irritatingly, "Don't you have work to do?".

"I am on leave ... you know its my boss's wedding tomorrow", said Aman innocently

Arnav give a glare to him, just then his cell beeped and then more beep sounds came. He picked his cell and saw messages from Lavanya. She has sent him Khushi's pictures.

Arnav smile seeing Khushi picture, before haldi, wearing his designed lehenga ... then another close up picture.

"khushi is looking good na", said Aman who had bend over ... curious to know what had made Arnav smile like that.

"Get lost Aman", said Arnav giving a push on his shoulder.

"So it will be like this now haan ... now Khushi is here I don't have any importance", said Aman ... his expression shows he is hurt.

"Did you had importance before that you will have now?", said Arnav in mock tone.

"ouch ASR ... you're so rude", said Aman putting his hand over his heart, "You hurt me deeply ... I will leave then", with that Aman turn and went out.

Arnav roll his eyes at Aman's retreating back and murmurs, "Dramabaz ... Di's influence is rubbing on him".

Then his focus went back to Khushi's pic as more came in with haldi on her face and arms. He runs his finger over her face, having haldi all over ... but it's the smile on her face that shows her happiness and shyness. Another picture came where Khushi was looking down, and a shy smile on her face ... he assumes that someone must have teased her. He sighed and wished that he could be with her at this moment ... to take her in his arms ... to inhale her unique fragrance ... to kiss her ... touch her. He closes his eyes ... trying to control his urge to go out of his room right now and fulfilling his wish.

After looking all the pictures he sends Khushi a message, to call him as soon as she gets free.

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

Garima told Khushi to go upstairs to her room and let the haldi remain on her for 15 mins before washing it away. Aashima held Khushi's lehenga so that it doesn't get spoiled by the haldi on her legs. Garima told Payal, Naina and Divya to go in kitchen and takes drinks and snacks out and serve to guests.

Khushi came inside her and went to bed first, she smiles seeing Arush's sleeping face. And then look at the clock ... its about to strike 6pm. She sits at the foot of bed, Aashima gathers her lehenga skirt on her lap and then look at Poonam, "Poonam you go down and have something to eat, I will help Khushi with taking off haldi".

"No, I am fine, I will help too", said Poonam standing up from bed.

"Amma said to wait for 15 mins before washing haldi", said Khushi reminding Aashima what her Amma had said.

"Ok, I will fill the bucket with warm water till then", saying that Aashima went to washroom.

"Poonam, can you please hand me some tissues and my cell phone", said Khushi gesturing towards her dressing table.

Poonam went to her table and grabs some tissue and Khushi's cell. She then hand them to Khushi.

Khushi wipes Haldi from her hands and then picks her cell phone. She smiles seeing Arnav's message. She was about to reply him when Aashima called her to come inside the washroom. Khushi put her cell on bed and went to washroom with Poonam holding her lehenga skirt.

After Some Time --------------------------------------

Garima look around the living room and couldn't find her husband. The Raizadas are about to leave. She quickly went to her room to check and found Shashi talking on phone. She went ahead but stopped hearing the name.

"Sandeep its ok, please stop apologizing", said Shashi in a tired voice, "Lets just forget it and move on".

"I understand ... if you can come it will be good ... No Payal would never mind ... ok do what you think is right ... ok take care ... baye", Shashi cut the call and sighed.

"Is everything ok?", asked Garima coming near him.

"Yeah, he was just apologizing that he cannot come tomorrow to Khushi's wedding", said Shashi, "he said that he doesn't want to remind Payal about her pain".

"Oh ... didn't you tell him that Payal will never mind about them coming", said Garima, "She never blamed them".

"I know ... but Sandeep thinks like that seeing them Payal will remember him", said Shashi.

"I will talk to Uncle Baba", came Payal's voice from behind. She had come in searching for her mother, as Nani wants to bid goodbye to her.

"Beta, you don't mind right?", asked Garima.

"Of course, you shouldn't be asking me that", said Payal and come near her father, "Baba, whatever happened I have never even think bad about uncle and aunty. They were not at fault. I know they were hurt as much as I was", Payal pause to take deep breath, "I would like them to come tomorrow. Its been so long of this awkwardness ... lets just end this ... I know you miss your friend".

"Bless you bitya", Shashi patted Payal's head.

Payal takes his cell phone and told them to go out and see off the Raizadas. Shashi felt proud of his daughter as he move towards the door and turn to see Payal talking to her Sandeep uncle asking them to come tomorrow for Khushi's wedding.

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

Arnav went down after some time and saw that his Di and others were back from Khushi's home. That's mean haldi is over then why havent she called me?, thought Arnav and turned back to his room. He dails Khushi's number ... but she didn't pick up.

"Aashima, stop it now", said Khushi as she tried to take her cell phone from Aashima. She had just come out of washroom after having a long warm shower and saw her cell phone ringing. Before she could pick it up Aashima beat her to it. She had come in the room with food tray for Khushi.

Arush had woken up few minutes ago and she had taken him down.

Aashima wiggle the cell phone in her hand and dodge Khushi and went to side, "No, you won't get it that easily". The ringing stopped and then started ringing again.

"Aashima, Aranvji gets angry when I delay in picking the phone, please give it na", said Khushi in worried tone as she tried to take the phone from Aashima but she again dodged her.

"Oho Jijaji is also very impatient haan", said Aashima as Khushi's cell ringed for the 3^rd time, "Lets see what he has to say", with that Aashima picked the call.

"What took you so long DAMMIT? I have been calling since ages", came Arnav's angry shout from the other end.

Aashima was shocked to hear the yelling, she was about to say something when again Arnav shouted, "Why are you not speaking now dammit?.

"Uh .ji ..ja ...", Aashima squeak and then flinched hearing another yell, "What the? Who the hell are you dammit and where is Khushi?".

Khushi who was standing next to Aashima, giggled seeing her shocked expressions. Aashima gulped and give the phone to Khushi and went out of room.

"Arnavji", said Khushi while giggling, "You scared poor Aashi".

"What the? Khushi whats going on dammit?", came Arnav another yell ... he was getting hell angry now.

Its been hours that he heard her sweet voice and was craving for her presence and here she is laughing.

"Arnavji calm down please, Aashima had my cell and was teasing me, not giving it to me ... but I think she won't do it again ... given that how you scared her", said Khushi and couldn't control her laugh ... "You should have seen her face".

And just like that hearing her sweet laugh, Arnav's anger went away. He sit down on bed and lay down, with his legs down.

"Khushi ... I am missing you so damn much", said Arnav in soft voice.

Khushi's giggles stopped hearing the longing in his voice, "Arnavji, I miss you too. Just few more hours then we will be together".

"I can't wait for that, its just getting too much now with never ending rituals ... this and that and upon that I can't even come to meet you, I can't stay away from you any more Khushi ... its just making me so ... so angry", said Arnav irritatingly running his hand in his hair.

"Arnavji ... it's just tonight you have stay away from me ... then never ever", said Khushi as she sit down on her bed.

"And I am not even planning to stay away from you after this night ... you will be in my arms every night coming ahead", said Arnav ...his voice getting husky.

Khushi blushed hearing this.

"I wish I could see your red cheeks ... touch them ... kiss them", said Arnav.

"Arnavji ... please", said Khushi feeling shy to say more.

"Please what Khushi ... tonight is yours ... but tomorrow will be my night and not only your cheeks but your whole body will turn red", said Arnav intensely.

"Arnavji ...", said Khushi hell shy now.

"That's the word you will be repeating tomorrow night", said Arnav in same tone.

Khushi's heart had already started its fast dhak dhak, "I ... I have to go ... goodbye".

"Run all you want ... but tomorrow I am not letting you go", said Arnav and Khushi quickly cut the call ... not able to hear his intense words.

Her cell beeped.

"Sleep tonight sweetheart ... tomorrow will be a long night" (wink emoticon)

"We will see about it tomorrow", replied Khushi with shaky fingers.

"Oh yes we will see ... a lot more", came Arnav's reply and then a wink and kiss emoticon.

Khushi heart thudded more and goose bumps appear on her skin thinking about it ...She hide her face in her hands understanding the meaning behind his words.

SCROLL DOWN FOR PART - B