Arshi SS: An Awakening Thread 1 **Awarded** - Page 58

Originally posted by: ssyahoo

<font size="2">Update??</font>

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Ab wait nahi hota!!! I wanna go clubbing with Arnav & Khushi. 😆

Originally posted by: Nidsubh007

Ab wait nahi hota!!! I wanna go clubbing with Arnav & Khushi. 😆

Originally posted by: _disha_

Hame bhi saath chalna hai !!!! 😳

Thanks so much for waiting for this update!! It is really boosting my ego😉

I wrote the next chapter, just need to make some edits and proofread. I do have to warn you that it will be posted much later tonight (pst), as there are both Warriors (NBA) and Sharks (NHL) playoff games coming on tonight, taking away at least three hours of my time!!

Meet you all at da club tonight!

Originally posted by: A_BA

I was literally out for most of the day and just came home (2:30 AM!)...I have written half of the next update and will try to finish later in the day and hopefully post Sunday night Pacific Standard Time, otherwise it will be on Monday.

Apologies for the delay!

yaay... a few more hours to go...!!!😊

Originally posted by: De4light

Very nice update. I like the way you are showing changing arnav without leaving his core. He is man who never let's his emotins dominate him but we can see him changing slowly and loosing that grip.

I know his protective ness is making him go after them in club but I would love to see him getting jealous. I don't want khushi require his help there.

But I love your story so go ahead girl... Will wait for some more arshi sceans...

This is exactly what I'm trying to show...Arnav not changing himself completely...just slightly. He's still the same person, but he's starting to realize that he has feelings for someone!!

Thanks for your comments!

Originally posted by: cloverleaf

Now that I am trying to dabble a bit in writing, I can totally see the enormous effort that must have gone into writing this chapter. My chapters barely cross 1000 words. Terrific job. I also love the exquisite attention to detail in your writing. You describe the events as if it is happening right in front of our eyes.

Khushi seems utterly confused. Her heart says one thing and then her mind says another. I can somewhat relate to her insecurities.

Arnav is trying his best. But he has never been a man of words. He cannot spell it out for Khushi. But he needs to reflect on the situation and I am confident that he will figure out the error of his ways.

Here's cheering to many more of such delightful chapters.

Thanks for your kind words!! Once I started writing myself, I started to appreciate all the updates other writer's give out. I started with about 2,000 word updates and now am crossing well over 3,000.

Khushi is definitely insecure...but it's because Arnav has never been able to properly communicate with her! He really does need to tell her how he feels honestly...hope you continue to read, as you will see how it plays out!

Thanks so much for all the wonderful comments from the last chapter😊

New readers, please buddy me for PM's!

FYI, longest chapter to date (more than 3700 words!!)

Chapter 17

Tryst was the hottest nightclub in town since its inception a few months back. The lines to get in were enormous on a nightly basis, often extending to the next block. Eager club-hoppers queued up to get a chance to experience the happening club. The lines however, were for ordinary people; and Arnav Singh Raizada was anything but ordinary. His presence alone enabled the group to get in through the special door reserved for celebrities and influential people. When the usher recognized the mighty ASR, he promptly escorted the group indoors and led them to the VIP section. The private setting was great for those who could afford it, as it allowed the affluent to enjoy the club's atmosphere, without the throng of crowds mixing with them.

The nightclub became popular for many reasons. Situated on the posh Marine Drive, its location was key to its appeal. Those in the know in South Mumbai flocked to the club due to its vicinity to all the other hotspots. Another reason the club was successful was because it hired the best DJ's to play the hottest tracks, a surefire way to get people on the dance floor all night long. The interior of the club was filled with colorful strobe lights beaming from all different angles, highlighting the main attraction, the dance floor. The sides were populated with cozy booths allowing partygoers to catch a quick break. The VIP sections were situated on the mezzanine level; allowing the well-heeled to see what was going on in the main area of the club while simultaneously protecting them from the commoners down below. And of course, the main ingredient to a successful nightclub was the bartenders and the tasty drinks they dispensed at a rapid rate, allowing partygoers to quench their thirst.

Khushi knew her outfit would stand out like a sore thumb in a posh club from what she had heard of these types of places. Her fears were confirmed when she witnessed the skimpy outfits worn by the females waiting in line outside. Feeling self-conscious, she clutched at her dupatta continuously. Her actions and distraught facial expressions highlighted her anxiety at the situation, which Arnav picked up immediately. Seeing her standing right behind Jay and Nikhil, he quickly went to hover behind her, essentially blocking people from seeing her. He didn't want her to feel uncomfortable or ashamed of the clothes she was wearing. To him, she looked much better and more respectable than the half-naked girls parading around. Khushi felt Arnav's presence behind her, and noticed she was caged in by three tall men while walking into the club, letting her relax a little about her outfit drawing unwanted attention. It's not like she would have worn a miniskirt to try to fit in if she knew they were coming here, but she would have dressed more appropriately for a night out in town, instead of a quiet dinner with coworkers.

When they were taken to the VIP area, Khushi was able to relax more as it was just the AR team and she was comfortable with them, excluding a certain Laad Governor at times. Not having to worry about her outfit, Khushi was finally taking in the atmosphere of the club. She looked in awe of all the lights streaming around the venue and the wild dancing on the main floor. The beats the DJ was mixing had a huge impact on the atmosphere, as it promoted everyone to dance. After taking a seat and placing orders for refreshments, Sim and Pam pulled Khushi on her feet to start dancing.

Arnav, in his typical reclusive manner, did not get up and start dancing. Instead he remained seated on the cushioned booth with a drink in hand. He enjoyed watching the pure unadulterated joy resonating from Khushi's face while she was swaying her body to the latest Bollywood hits. Just by looking at her, it was obvious that dancing was one of her passions. Khushi could feel a pair of eyes boring into her soul but decided to ignore it, knowing that one look towards him would be her undoing, so she continued to move her body to the rhythm of the music. Arnav grimaced when he saw that Jay was dancing in close proximity to Khushi, but he couldn't do anything about it; so he watched, hoping that Khushi would voluntarily step away from the scene.

Khushi was having a blast dancing, but at the same time, she felt like it wasn't her ideal environment; she didn't drink alcohol, did not dress in revealing outfits and was not looking to find a man. She would rather dance in the privacy of her home for her friends and family members. Khushi noticed that Pam had ventured off to join a group next to theirs and Sim was dancing up a storm with Aman of all people. The two had really hit it off during dinner and they remained close in the club. Suddenly feeling a little uncomfortable without her girlfriends dancing around her, Khushi decided to take a seat. As it was, she was spent from the strenuous day, and dancing for a prolonged period was tiring. Unfortunately for her, only Arnav was seated in their section, forcing her to sit beside him. It was typical of the Laad Governor to be a bore while everyone else was enjoying the fun and frolic of the atmosphere. Arnav was ecstatic when he saw Khushi walking back to the table; he would finally get a chance to talk to her alone.

"You enjoying yourself, Khushi?" Arnav started the conversation, surprisingly.

"Yes, I love to dance and they are playing some of my favorite songs."

"You don't feel uncomfortable here, right, with all the sharaab," he asked hesitantly.

"It's fine. I don't mind if other's drink; it's just not something that I do," she replied honestly. "Plus I know nothing can go wrong, as you're here." Arnav was surprised at her words, but more so humbled by her admission. He rejoiced that somewhere deep down, she trusted him.

There was a pause in their conversation, each enjoying the quiet moment amongst themselves. Arnav decided to break the silence, once again, and asked, "Khushi, why did you want to have lunch with me the other day?" He didn't want to belittle or embarrass her; he just wanted to get to the bottom of it as he knew there had to be a reason for her unexpected request.

Khushi was taken aback by his question as it came out of nowhere. She didn't want to be having this conversation with him; not here and not now. She tried her best to avoid it.

"I just thought you needed a break when I came to your office, that's it," she said trying to put on a straight face to hide her emotions.

"Are you sure?" When she nodded in the affirmative, he continued, "Well if that's the case, I just have to say how sorry I am once again. My meeting with Natasha had not finished yet and we decided to continue on during lunch. I felt really bad when she walked in but I just couldn't do anything about it." His apology was heartfelt and genuine, Khushi noticed. She also saw how he apologized to her with such ease, much different than the first time he tried. "When we get back to the office, we can definitely go try out that cafe you mentioned the other day. Cup o' coffee, right?"

Not wanting to dwell on the past, Khushi tried reassuring him, "Don't worry Arnavji, it wasn't a big deal."

Although he was still skeptical of her response, he didn't want to push her and make her feel uncomfortable.

To stray from the topic, Khushi started blabbering, "I can't believe I'm in a club, in Mumbai! I wonder how Buaji would react to that." Arnav chuckled thinking her aunt's initial reaction would be to mutter her favorite deities' name in an exaggerated manner. "It's my first time visiting this city; I always wanted to come here. Mumbai seems so magical in movies."

"I didn't know it was your first time here Khushi. How have you liked it so far?"

"Well this is a business trip, so I can't really go sight-seeing, but I got to see the Arabian Sea. It was so magnificent. I could stare at it all day if I had a choice."

"It's even better at night, up close. Do you want to go see it?" Arnav wasn't feeling the loud club atmosphere and wanted to spend some time alone with Khushi.

"Of course," Khushi replied enthusiastically, without thinking of the repercussions.

"Let's go then," Arnav said while standing up.

"Right now?"

"No time like the present."

She hesitated for a bit and looked around to see all her friends, but they were fully immersed in their dancing. If she went with Arnav, she would get to look at the Sea with all the lights twinkling in reflection, but if she declined, she would be forced to sit next to him watching others dance. She texted Sim and Pam, informing them that she left with Arnav and then stood up, and motioned for Arnav to take the lead. Not wanting any unwanted hands reaching out to touch Khushi, he quickly came to her side, wrapped his arms around her shoulders and escorted her down the stairs and out of the building.

Mumbai was often referred to as the city that never sleeps; and Khushi could confirm those claims. Stepping out of the club well past midnight, the streets were still full of cars and people roaming around. However, there was a peaceful atmosphere at night, with the gentle sea breeze wafting through the air. Crossing the street from the club to the promenade along the seaside, Khushi stared at the amazing sight in front of her. It really did look magical; the soft waves coming onto shore, the breeze hitting their senses, and the most spectacular sight was of the lights rimming around the costal line.

Seeing Khushi looking in amazement at the scenery, Arnav beamed with joy. He loved bringing the simple pleasures to Khushi.

"This is called the Queen's Necklace," he started to explain, looking out at the view in front of them. "When you look from certain angles, the lights look like a strand of jewels; and due to its magnificence, it's deemed the Queen's Necklace." Although the term was likely coined in colonial times under the British Raj, it was one of the quintessential aspects of the Mumbai skyline.

"I have never heard of that, but it's just so beautiful, Arnavji." Khushi was thoroughly enjoying the setting in front of her. She regretted not witnessing such a sight in all her years. Taking in all the sights and sounds around her, Khushi caught a flash of color at the end of the promenade. She could see many people walking that way, and could even hear faint music coming from that direction. She turned to Arnav to ask him what was there.

"That's Chowpatty over there."

"Can we please go there? I've heard so much about the infamous Chowpatty in Mumbai." Arnav was not a fan of the rowdy atmosphere presented at the beachside destination. He didn't appreciate the food, the rides, the music or the jolly, carefree atmosphere. However, he wanted Khushi to see it firsthand as he believed she would enjoy it. He nodded his head in approval, after which they both started walking in that direction.

The first thing Khushi noticed upon entering Chowpatty was all the food stalls, selling various types of food. Seeing tantalizing signs for Pani Puri, bhel, pav bhaji and ragda patties immediately made her stomach grumble. Even though she had a satisfying dinner at the Ambassador Hotel, this type of food was definitely her true calling, and she would not be able to resist.

"Arnavji, what do you want?" She asked in excitement. "I can't decide what I want to try first."

"Umm, Khushi, I don't really think this is a good idea. It's not really hygienic; you don't know the source of the water or where the ingredients have been. If you're still hungry, we can try to find a decent hotel that is still open." He found it hard to believe that Khushi could fit more food in her slender body, but she never ceased to amaze him.

"Laad Governor, kahin ke!" She muttered under her breath, but loud enough for Arnav to hear. Although he was not a fan of the moniker she coined for him, he had to give it to her that her thinking was one of a kind, just like her.

"Well I have heard so much about Mumbai chaat; this will be my only chance. I'm not going to miss out." With those words, she quickly ran to one of the stalls, reading all the options on the menu. Arnav followed behind, less than pleased about what Khushi was planning on doing.

"Bhaiyya, I want two plates of Pani Puri," Khushi yelled out to one of the men behind the counter. He told her to wait in the line designated for Pani Puri at the corner. Arnav quickly paid before Khushi had a chance to reach into her purse to dig out some loose cash. Nodding her appreciation at his gesture, she headed off to where the puri's would be served. When she got there, she was handed a disposable bowl to hold. When it was Khushi's turn to receive puri's, she waited on edge as the man behind the counter would gently poke the top of the crisp, round puri, making an opening that would allow him to drop in the filling. After putting in the proper stuffing, he dipped the puri in a container that was laden with green water. After submerging the puri for a quick second, he took it out and placed it on an eager Khushi's bowl. Khushi put the whole puri in her mouth, savoring the sweet and tangy melange of flavors.

Although Arnav was disgusted at the prospect of eating street food, watching Khushi's face light up with joy was a pleasurable sight. She had her eyes wide open while she anticipated the arrival of the puri, then closed her beautiful eyes as she allowed herself to savor the taste when she put the puri in her mouth, and then finally she opened her eyes, lighting up her face with the widest smile known to mankind, showing her appreciation for the experience. Her actions were repeated every time the bhaiyya passed her one of the small delicacies, until her allotment for the said food item was over. Khushi loved the Mumbai chaat experience and would have had more if she wasn't already full from the dinner earlier in the night. Also, she felt bad that she was enjoying the best chaat of her life while the Laad Governor just watched in wonderment. Meanwhile, Arnav couldn't help but stare at Khushi while she was relishing the small puri's.

Feeling slightly uncomfortable under his intense gaze, Khushi tried to move away. Unfortunately for her, Arnav was quick to grab her wrist and pull her gently towards himself. Just a few inches away from the tips of their noses touching, Arnav raised his right hand, while keeping the left on Khushi's wrist, and smoothly brushed away the droplet of water that lingered near Khushi's plump lower lip, sending warm sensations through both their bodies. Arnav was shocked at the softness of her lips, especially against his rough hand. His mind started wondering about how they would feel against his own lips. Khushi was a loss for words at the sensual way Arnav touched her. No man had ever gotten so close to her physically, but she knew that the feelings he aroused in her were not commonplace. Both stood in the same position, gazing in to each other's eyes, not wanting to the ruin the perfect moment they created for themselves.

Even with the close proximity and intimate position, both Khushi and Arnav did not feel awkward towards one another. Instead they felt comforted with the others presence. They were broken out of their trance as loud music blared through a remote stereo system, signaling that the Ferris wheel was about to start operating. Khushi turned around to see children and adults of many ages heading towards the ride, wanting to enjoy the unique experience. Khushi too wanted to sit on the Ferris wheel, as she hadn't been on one since childhood. Turning back towards Arnav, she asked him, "Arnavji, can we please go sit on the Ferris wheel? It seems like so much fun."

"I don't think it's safe Khushi. Look at all those kids climbing up on top and dangling off the sides." He didn't want to admit that he had a slight fear of heights, but he had to dissuade her somehow. Unfortunately for him, Khushi wasn't buying it.

"Arnavji, look at how many kids are sitting on there. I doubt their parents would let them sit if it wasn't safe." She knew he was still not convinced, so with her sweetest voice and cutest pout, she pleaded, "Please Arnavji, when else am I going to get a chance?"

That did it. He could not refuse that face, ever, Arnav realized. Accepting his predicament, Arnav led Khushi to the line for the Ferris wheel, but told her that she could experience it herself as he didn't feel comfortable getting on. Although dismayed at the thought of going up by herself, Khushi was still content that she was getting a chance. When they reached the main gate, Arnav paid the entrance fee for Khushi and the worker motioned for Khushi to take a seat in one of the cages. When he saw that Arnav had backed away and wasn't going to join her, he asked if there was any one person who did not have a partner and would be able to sit alongside Khushi. Immediately, a man in the back volunteered himself. Arnav raised his objections as fast as he could, "She can go by herself. She doesn't need a partner."

"No, sahib, it doesn't work that way. The weight needs to be balanced in order for the wheel to operate properly. She can't go without a partner," the young man at the gate informed Arnav. Looking at the man eagerly going towards Khushi, Arnav couldn't help himself but pay for his own fare, and dismiss the volunteer harshly. "There's no need for you to go with her when I'm here."

Confused at what was taking place, the man stepped away to the side, allowing Arnav to go join Khushi. Khushi was elated that they were going to experience this together when she saw Arnav walking towards her after paying for his ticket. When he took a seat, they both realized how snugly they fit in the small cage, with their shoulders and thighs touching each other's. After they were properly seated and secured in, the wheel moved gently, allowing the next group to get on. When all the seats were taken, the ride finally took off. Being that it was human powered, it started off slowly. However, the momentum started building as young boys climbed on the top and started move the wheel with great precision. Arnav was shocked at how high the boys were climbing, without worrying about the dangers involved. Although he was scared for their plight, he was more worried about having to look down from so high above the ground.

Khushi could sense Arnav's restlessness as the ride start picking up steam. She took a look at the man beside her and saw that his eyes were closed. Realizing that the mighty Arnav Singh Raizada might have a phobia of heights, she took a hold of his left fist and captured it in her small hands. At the first feel of her gentle touch, Arnav opened his eyes and looked towards Khushi, grateful for her awareness of certain situations. Forgetting all about his anxiety related to his phobia, Arnav allowed himself to relax and enjoy his surroundings. He noticed that Khushi's eyes lighted up every time the wheel started moving faster, bringing a smile to his face. Arnav realized that he could endure anything just to see Khushi's happiness.

As soon as they got off the ride, Khushi thanked Arnav profusely.

"Arnavji, thank you so much for bringing me here, and coming with me on the Ferris wheel. I haven't had so much fun in such a long time." Khushi had been taking care of her family for so long that she didn't have much time to enjoy anything for herself.

"No need to thank me Khushi. In fact, I'm glad I came. I didn't realize I could have fun on that," he said while looking at the Ferris wheel again. Khushi could hear the sincerity in his tone and sense it in his eyes that he was being completely honest with her. She knew that he too was busy with taking care of his business and family and never had a moment just for himself. She was glad that she was able to have a part in giving him a small respite.

Even though he didn't want to kill the mood, Arnav had to be practical.

"Khushi, I think we should start heading back to the hotel. It's pretty late and we both have a long day ahead of us tomorrow." Khushi understood his concerns and nodded in agreement.

Wanting to enjoy this moment with Arnav to the fullest, she requested that they walk back to the hotel, sensing that it wasn't that far away from Chowpatty. Arnav told that her if they had more time, they could have walked it but since it was already too late, they could walk for a few minutes more before hailing a taxi to take them back to the hotel. Reaching that compromise with Khushi was fairly easy as she understood the predicament. They headed away from Chowpatty and started heading down the promenade once again, enjoying the soft breeze coming from the sea, and more importantly relishing the rare moment spent with each other, without any conflicts and interruptions.

Please let me know what you guys think! This chapter was dedicated to all of you who wanted Arshi scenes, I tried my best to give a couple of rabba ve moments, hope you enjoyed them! More Arshi moments to follow in Mumbai!!!

Also, just a quick note: I will be out on vacation starting next week, therefore no updates for about 8-10 days. I apologize to those who want regular updates. I will try my best to update a couple more times before I head out. As always, thanks for patiently waiting!

Res 😊
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amazing updates
Ha..awesome
The sea and breeze...the beach...u describe it all very well
Romantic
Sweet

The way you wrote pani puri's description, I was like oh god I want to eat golgappe, its midnight here, now where I will get them 😆 it was a mouth watering moment. Beautiful moments of Arshi, a very well written and fantastic update!