Smitar's: Finding Khushi #9 Link to #10 on Pg 1 - Page 52

The hitherto emotionally stunted ASR and Anamika unfurling their petals is a sight to watch… and Khushi is the catalyst that brought love and laughter into their lives… her entry into their lives has been life-altering and she is the glue that holds everyone together!

Anamika seems to be at ease with her own body… she doesn't hesitate from openly showing Ganesh her love and desire for him; she takes every opportunity to touch him… that she is having fun doing so is a bonus! Ganesh is still cautious about PDA towards Anamika, whereas she is becoming more and more confident of what she wants and doesn't mind demanding it… that she is lightening up is clearly reflected in her gentle teasing of Ganesh. The gradual progress in the Ganesh-Anamika relationship is beautifully depicted through his thoughts… despite his long-suppressed desire for her, he doesn't crowd her but gives her ample time and space to call a halt to the proceedings if she feels threatened… the fact that she is in charge is what strengthens her trust in him and makes her decide to take the next step toward physical intimacy. Just love the inherent gentleness and thoughtfulness in everything Ganesh does… Ganesh defied all expectations by touching her nose with his… such a cute reminder of the manner in which the Maoris greet each other… it's almost as if he is welcoming her into a new world of freedom and closeness. Swallowing hard, Ganesh closed his arms around her waist and effortlessly lifted her up to lie against his barrel of a chest… the image is one of protection, almost like trying to soothe a baby… that final gentle kiss is just adorable! His stubble rubbing against her soft cheek, eliciting a giggle from her makes one nostalgic about that similar scene between Khushi and Arnav, in the show: Aapki dhaadi chhubti hai, followed by his gentle kiss! Koel is a true friend, giving them ample opportunities to enjoy each other's company without fear of interruption.

Khushi wooing a jalebi is funny yet endearing… She kissed the jalebi, and then popped it into her mouth… wonder if she imagines it to be Arnav, wanting to gobble him up! Arnav has truly changed: he doesn't mind indulging in the ridiculous, thoroughly enjoying Khushi's lovable yet eccentric antics… he, in fact, joins in by singing the next lines expressing his possessiveness! The image of Arnav crooning Bollywood songs to Khushi would have boggled one's mind once, but seems par for the course now! Loved the contrast between the beginning and the ending of this update: whereas in the beginning Khushi romances a jalebi, seemingly Arnav's replacement, the ending proves that he's the centre of her universe, with the jalebis a distant memory! Will we be lucky to have a situation wherein Hum tum ek kamre mein bandh ho aur chhabhi kho jaaye 😉?