ArshiFF:3#UnpredictableCircumstancesTB2YP last chap page 66 Complete - Page 2

"What?" I said with an angry expression

"See" he pointed at me and laughed

"Bhai that's the expression she always gives us." Anjali held her stomach laughing

"Like a mother scolding her kids." He rolled around on the sand laughing.

"I hate you two" I said getting up faced the other direction acting like I was mad at them but I was watching them. They no longer cared about the sand messing up their clothes they were just enjoying the moment. My heart felt content seeing their adorable faces. Their laugher filled my heart it was what I lived for what I loved and I now had a lifetime of hearing it.

"Okay Kiddo stop or we may have to sleep on the floor today" Arnav said in an amused tone.

"Then we'll be looking down again and she'll watch us with that expression." He pressed his lips together after Anjali's words.

"Are you two done?" I asked

"Wait a few more" Arnav said "she may even start grounding us or make us eat vegetables" they both laughed again

"Bhai she may take away your car and my phone."

"Can you imagine being stuck at home with no internet for a week what a punishment?"

"That's it I'm going to kill you two" I said putting my hands around Arnav's neck.

"Khushi you going to kill your husband on the first day of you marriage at least wait till the wedding night" I tightened my grip around his neck and Anjali just continued to laugh

"Ahh my stomach hurts stop it Bhai"

"You two are unstoppable" I said letting him go.

"We only tease you because we love you." He hugged me and gave me a peck.

"Yeah we're sorry" Anjali said creeping up next to me. "We love you very much" I know that I said coming out of Arnav's hold and hugging Anjali.

"Mrs Raizarda you should not have accepted our apology"

"Why not?" I looked at him confused still holding Anjali. "Because now you'll have a lifetime of having to deal with our tantrums. If you let us of so easily now won't that spoil us?" I smiled at him then looked at Anjali.

"I don't mind handling my family's tantrums." I said with pride "after all I know how to manage the Raizarda babies."

I got up and pulled Anjali with me. "Now hurry up the guest are waiting." I took My hand out for Arnav he ready took it and pulled himself up.

We had completed our long photo session and were now heading to the reception.

Anjali didn't even wait up for us once we reached closed to the site she ran off. I waited a far for a second with Arnav just taking in the look of the site.

Small round wooden tables were set on the beach with white table clothes on top there was one round table in between all the other tables, the central table, where everyone could see the bride and groom, and they could all communicate, there was beautiful white drapes handing off bamboo sticks the mountain and ocean backdrops for our wedding reception.

"Do you like it?"

"Do you need to ask?" I looked at him with a small smile. I knew he would have read my expression, he knew me better than I knew myself there was no way he had not already known what I felt. The joy in my heart could be seen on my face my smile said it all.

"Let's go" he said holding my hand. Arnav yelled at Aman before we reached he nodded to his friend then began to use all the strength in his lungs to yell.

"Ladies and gentlemen let me be the first to welcome Mr and Mrs Raizarda." There was a loud roar with everyone screaming. I walked with Arnav down the hill than on the smooth sandy beach. His hands tightly entangled with mine as we walked pass the; waving hands, flying confetti, and the individual electronic devices. There were probable 100 pictures being taken that moment. But it was a wedding nothing else I was expecting. Through all the commotion my eyes spotted Anjali throwing gold seashell shaped confetti in the air with Charlene I smiled realising why she had run off. After all she had to entertain her guest too. The excitement on her face was priceless. I could do anything for this girl anything to always see her like this. Her smile was probable the biggest in the crowd she had dreamtime this day more than Arnav and I had. She had already decided the result of our relationship from the start.

Once we had passed the crowed and reach our table Priya walked to my side and Aman to Arnav's.

"Had fun?" She asked me

"Arnav sure did" Aman sniggered

"We were taking picture nothing fun about that" I said "and when your with the Raizarda sibling it is definitely not fun!" Priya laughed while Arnav made a face.

"Your a Raizarda to now" Aman tried to defend his friend.

"That's why I had said the siblings"

"You can't win against my wife Aman" Arnav said with a smirk.

"Wife, up to a few hours ago it was my girl" Aman raised a eye brow at his friend.

"She was not my wife up to a few hours ago she was just my life now she's my life and wife." He winked at me once then looked at his friend. His eyes then spotted on Anjali "what is he doing here?" There was a sudden change in his tone I could tell he was angry 'but what changed his mood?' I glanced at him and saw an angry expression on his face his eyes were focused on one place, correction one person. I followed his gaze and they landed on Anjali. She was talking to Charlene they were joking and laughing it's seemed as if they were having fun. I smiled seeing her like that even though I now knew I would have to handle a grumpy husband.

"He's Kidos guest"

"She didn't need any guest"

"Sana's come too"

"I don't remember inviting him or his name being on the invitation list."

"I invited him" he looked back at me with a glare. "And his name was there with some more of Anjali's friends. You just don't know any of them so must have skipped the page." I knew he had done that I didn't even have to think twice about it. "Don't give me that look you should have noticed before it's too late now" I smirked back at him "just let her have some fun".

Aman had interrupted our conversation saving the guest from seeing one of our arguments. "Guys your guest have been waiting for quite some time now can we have dinner?" He said

"Yeah I'm staving" Priya said trying to help Aman.

"Then let's eat" Aman waved to Momo dinner was not ordered from a restaurant. It was hand made by some of the most experienced chefs on the island, the mother of the island. They had volunteered to cook for all the guest they seemed so excited about it that Arnav didn't have the heart to say no to them. But he had insisted on paying for all the ingredients bring both parties to a compromise.

Priya fixed the back of my dress and I took a seat on my chair. Arnav sat next to me and called out to Anjali.

"Kiddo come sit with us"

"No I like it here"

"Kiddo" he shouted

"Let here stay there she can join us later" I interrupted.

"Khushi she'll complain later arguing about not being that in the picture"

"I won't promise Bhai" she did turning away from her brother. I could see Arnav's expression becoming hard. I pressed on his hand he turning to look at me with a slightly softer expression.

"We'll call her when we're cutting the cake there's no pictures while we eat." I moved closer to him and whispered "I know why you really calling her. She safe Sana is with her" I pointed towards her other friend on the table. He nodded and tried to enjoy rest of the dinner. I knew he was taking peaks towards her throughout the dinner but I didn't mind. He was protective that's who he was I couldn't change that nor could I ask him to be someone he was not. It's what made him the loving brother is.

"Attention please" Aman got up from his seat and raised a glass. "I think it's time for the best man's speech" he looked at Priya and she nodded. She got up and swapped places with him now Aman was on my side and Priya Arnav's side. Arnav and I looked up at them from our seat confused at what was occurring. "You all may be wondering why we swap places but we had a reason to do so."

Priya than began to speak "some of you may know that these two were apart for 5 years, continents apart. During this period I was with Khushi and Aman was with Arnav well physically that is."

"But really I was with Khushi, giving her info on Arnav indirectly" Aman said.

"And I was directly giving Arnav minute by minute info on Khushi" Priya said.

"Their hearts told them they had to know what the other was up to" Aman said.

"But there egos stopped them from asking" Priya said.

"So we did the work for them. We still sometimes support the other" Aman said

"Over our best friends, because like everyone else here today we know that these two belong together." Priya said

"That they know each other better then theor partner knows themselves" Aman said

"We will continue to support or best friends physically but mentally we will always be on opposite sides" Priya

"Sorry man" Aman said "I will always be on Khushi's side"

"I already knew you were a traitor Aman" Arnav shouted "you did it again this Morning" Arnav said in a lower voice knowing what his friend had been up to.

"It never did matter who's side they took" I interrupted, Priya looked at me and smiled.

"No matter what the boys say it really didn't matter whose side we took. Because indirectly these two will always be on one side" Priya said.

"We wish you both the best for the future." Aman said "but most importantly I wish Khushi good luck! She may make it look as if handling these Raizardas is easy business but it really is a hard task."

"Hey!" Anjali shouted from her seat.

"There's wisdom in my words" he said only to have to jump over the table the next second running from Arnav, he was about to bump into Anjali when he reached the other side but he quickly dodged her and ran around her. The two chase him out of the reception area then walked back.

'These two would never grow up' I thought to myself watching them strolling together laughing at their antics.

The ceremony was complete so was dinner all that remained was cake and a little dancing. I didn't have to look around for the cake because Momo brought it to us with the help of her friends.

"Enjoy sweety" she said giving me a kiss.

I looked at my two devils with a raised eyebrow. They stopped laughing. glanced at each other then Arnav spoke.

"He'll be back in a few minutes" he said it casually then walked to my side as if nothing had happened.

"You two are lucky I'm in a good mood"

"No we're lucky you always support us" Anjali said with a smirk. She was becoming more and like her brother day by day.

"I love you" I heard Arnav whisper in my ear I looked up at him and saw upmost love in his eyes. He had seen where my eyes had been focused I could tell by the soft look on his face.

"Bhai" Anjali whined gaze turned to her face. She looked beautiful today the only one who could have completed this perfect day. My eyes would have been frozen on her if not for the sudden flash that had hit me. In front of our table stood our guests holding their camera once again wishing to capture the moment.

The cake was cut and the first slice was brought out by Arnav. As expected the first slice had been for his sister. It may have shocked the guest but if he had not done that I would have pushed his hand holding the slice towards her.

"Bhai not me"

"Just eat it" he told her then turned to me. I blinked at him thanking him when I opened my month it he stuffed the whole slice in my month. I gave him an evil look while trying to swallow.

"LG" I said picking a slice he knew he was in trouble that moment. I first offered it to Anjali who was giggling crazily knowing her brother was not safe. "You turn" I said to him. He shook his head "it's really sweet" his eyes glanced at the guest. "Eat it or I'll cover you face with it" I whispered. He opened up than held my wrist while biting the cake. I knew he was trying to save himself. I could still move my wrist joints which is exactly what I did. The cake was lifted an inch and covered his nose. The bone line of his nose was now covered with cream.

"Khushi" he shouted I laughed with everyone else stepping back a little to give them the opportunity to get a picture of the great Raizarda covered in cream. Unfortunately for them he was still smiling which was not great for me. Their only loss was they missed out on seeing a tomato covered in cream. "I'll get you back later" he whispered in my ear. I walked pass him and began talking to some of the guest thanking them for coming. I could feel his eyes on me the whole time yet now demands no request just a silent speculator, that's what he was.

"May I have this dance?" My hand went into his without any though. The guest I was talking to slowly moved away. He pulled me onto the dance floor and wrapped his arm sound my waist. Swaying to the music I could see his eyes only on me. The perfect fairy tale moment that's what this felt like. A moment where I knew I was safe and happy. The guest no longer mattered, I didn't care who was here the only one that mattered was the man whose arms I was in: My companion, my Best friend, my Husband. He looked at me then nodded his head a little as if asking me what I was thinking I just shook my head in return.

His eye focused behind I turned to Anjali dancing with Charlene "kiddo" I shouted she turned towards me and without taking a second to think she came running towards me. "Swap dance partners please" I whispered in her ear then walked off.

I then told Charlene I would be dancing with him. A few minutes may not be enough to understand someone but I knew one thing for sure this boy had manners, I would trust my Anjali with anyone but I wouldn't mind letting him be her friend.

I glanced at Arnav between the dance and saw him laughing with his sister. The two made my life full of joy, these small moments matter more than anything memories where were being made now to be forever captured in my mind. His eyes met with mine and all I saw in then was gratitude. Appreciation for being in his life, for always caring, and for protecting Anjali again it was unsaid yet projected.

The party was finally coming to an end with guest beginning to leave, I could hear Aman and Priya shouting in the back about the time. I saw Aman walk up to Arnav and whisper something, he said something to Anjali and she ran off. When I reached them there conversation had ended.

"What's going on boys?" I asked

"It's time to leave" Arnav replied and then pulled me to some guest who had been waiting by small yot. Time was here to stay goodbye to some faces, and see you later to others. I gave my hugs and kisses, got my wishes then slowly walked towards Anjali. Plans had already been made for her, she would be staying with Priya in London for a week, the only one person I could trust. Luckily she was on holiday so Kushal would be their most of the day to keep her entertained n she could visit her friends' rest of the time.

I gave her a tight hug not wanting to let her go. She was my angel, my baby I knew I couldn't live without her even for a day, I hated the feeling.

"Khushi we'll be back in few days." I heard Arnavs soft voice in my ear, but at the same time I could hear Anjali sobbing. "Girls its one week stop crying" he said when we pulled out of the hug "you can tease me as much as you want when you together again" that made the two of us laugh. I bent down to her level gave her strict instructions to take care of herself and not to cry. I wiped the few tears then gave her one last hug before stepping away. Arnav was no better than me his hug lasted longer than mine did luckily Anjali did not cry this time. He said his good byes and held my hand helping onto the yot.

It felt like a small part of me was being left behind as we drove away. I was wrong a large part of me was being left behind. It seemed Arnav was more hurt than I was. I could tell by the tight grip on my hand, his hear was aching inside after all that was his sister his only family. In his eyes she was now in a stranger's hand.

"Where we going?" I asked trying to divert his attention

"Spain!"

Nothing else was said for the next few minutes. There was no need to speak his arm wrapped around my waist and he pulled me close together we waved bye till we could not see anyone, till it was just the two of us. Ready to start our new life, ready to take our first step as Mr and Mrs. Waiting for whatever life had in store for us. This unpredictable journey was only beginning. We knew there were many more unpredictable moments to come.

Two more parts to come!

Chapter 67 - Our Family

Note in two parts

I snuggled closer to the warmth in my sleep. "Khushi" a gentle voice trying to wake me up from the deep slumber I was in.

"Khushi" Arnav said again his love was sleeping on his shoulder with their arms wrapped around each other.

He would have let me sleep if the food had not arrived. He knew I was sleeping on an empty stomach and would be starving. "Khushi" he said again my eyes fluttered open.

"Hmmm" I moaned complaining about my sleep being broken.

"Khushi you haven't eaten, wake up and eat something" his voice had already broken my sleep but his care woke me up. I looked up at his face, my face then ROTATED around the plane.

"Where's Kido?"

"Asleep" he pointed to the seats in front of us, Anjali had he legs stretched on the seats a pillow on the hand rest supporting her head. I couldn't help but smile.

Air hostess came up to us and asked what we would like to eat? Arnav ordered for the two of us then asked me to go freshen up. On my way to the bathroom I had quickly insured Anjali's blanket was on her properly and her pillow was at the right angle. Looked like Arnav had already switched of all the electronics around her had been switched off so she wouldn't be disturbed.

"Thank you" I said sitting back in my seat my food tray nearly set with the packages all opened for me.

"For what? I know this thanks was not for the food."

"For tucking Kido in" I smiled at him taking a bit of my salad.

"Are you forgetting she's my sister, which makes it my duty to take care of her" He bit into his rice.

"Then a thank you for doing your duty"

"Shouldn't i be thanking you?" I raised an eyebrow, he took my free hand in his "you didn't have any duties towards her you still..." He stopped there I saw gratitude in his eyes one that I had always seen. This was always an unspoken topic between us. A few words would be exchanged but we would never have a full discussion there was never any need for it. What I did was never a favour to him, it was what families did for each other. I stepped in when he was in need, when he was at his lowest emotionally broken and hurt. A big part of my heart knew that I had always loved him and would always love him. If indirectly I could have helped my love I would which is exactly what I had done. Helped the love of my life to get his life together when our lives were falling apart.

"Don't" I said before he could finish speaking. Even if he had been a small reason for me to say yes he wasn't the only reason. I loved Anjali as much as he did I would have given up on her, never! She was a little sister to me she still is my little sister. Our angle she lightened up my world when Arnav had left and she lightens it up now. Even if she wasn't Arnav's sister I would have taken her in after the accident it wouldn't have matter to me that's she's my Arnav's sister. To me she was a adorable girl I meet who had a clear heart n who needed me. I had adored her from the moment I'd met her. She was mischievous little girl who stolen my heart over the years. I loved her then as a little sister now I lived her as my daughter.

The real chain that had held me and Arnav together all these years and is now holding us together, completing the family.'

He looked straight at my face he could always read me nothing was different now. He could see how his one 'thanks' had hurt me, he knew it would but he just couldn't resist the change in his life was thanks to me, the one he loved. How could he stay silent and not say one 'thanks you' he couldn't not give credit to the women who was the reason for his happiness he couldn't not show his gratitude.

"Sorry" he kissed my hand "she more your then mine" he tried to cover up but there was genuine truth in his words. "She may be my sister but your daughter" he knew exactly what my heart called him. "She loves you more anyway" I couldn't help but smirked at his words. He moved closer to me and whispered in my ear "don't be too smug about it. Not like it's the first time I've said that."

He smirked "I've already admitted it to the world" I smiled

"Yes you have" I glanced at the little girl we were taking about. I had always prayed for her happiness, hoped she would never have to face any pain. But the reality was different our destiny had given us all pain. Pain we had to learn to live with but amongst this. She had probable had to face the most pain; with a secret hidden in her heart and separation from her brother for years and the loss of her parents. At a young age she had seen a lot yet her face always had a smile on it. She had more strength then I could ever show. She had unintentionally taught me to cover the pain with happiness. Her love was unconditional, her soul was caring and her heart was innocent. She would change over the year that I knew I just hoped she didn't change too much.

We had built a world where we would all be happy. I was may be selfish but I wanted that world to always stay the same. The three of us and our little world'; with no darkness; no misunderstandings; no accidents; no separation; and no pain. "You told the world about this world of ours." I said

"Our little world" he said as if he could have read my mind.

I would have been surprised if it was someone else who guessed that. "Get some rest you won't get any after we land" Arnav said after the food tray his finished but my mind had not stopped thinking.

"I'll watch her" he said kissing my forehead and putting my head to rest on his shoulder again.

"Why won't I get any time after we land?" I asked my eyes half shut yet sleep feeling like it was miles away.

"You have a lot of appoints lined up" he said I knew he had already planned a lot but what I wasn't quite sure.

"Do you mind elaborating on that please?" I asked

"Umm"

"Yes"

"You should sleep first" he said.

I turned my head to see his face. "Talk Mr"

"You have appointments with three..." He paused for a second as if bracing himself for my wrath "bridal boutiques"

"WHAT!" I shouted

"Shhh" he pointed towards Anjali.

"How could you make the appointments without asking me? I..."

"I know what you like" he interrupted me "you would have taken forever to get yourself to go to the shops if I had not booked it. I know how much you hate shopping for yourself."

"Wait this all seems too rushed to me. When's the wedding day?" He started looking around the plane avoiding eye contact with me. "Arnav!" He still didn't look at me. "LG!" Still no answer "You stupid lard governor I will kill you of you don't tell me the date" he couldn't help but laugh at my impatient behavior. He tried to lean in closer to me but I moved back.

He then whispered "I can't tell you here's there are people around, I'll tell you when we land. And even if I don't" he pointed to the sleeping angle in front of us "she will" I smiled knowing she really couldn't hid anything from me. "Aman's joining me in the evening with Akash after which the three of us will go suit shopping."

"And my bridesmaid dresses?" I asked assuming he had probable arranged something for that too.

"They will meet you tomorrow morning, I though I'll give you today to spend on yourself." I smiled and then rested my head on his shoulder again.

"Still feels like a dream" I said closing my eyes.

"Yes it does, we waited too long"

"It's coming to an end now."

"Soon!" Was the last word I heard before I dosed off again.

I woke up after a few hours and saw he was not next to me. I looked around and saw him sitting with his sister watching a move. Looked like batman they had probable both come to a compromise her not wanted to watch action and him not wanting to watch a sob movie. I quietly creep out of my seat and went to the washroom.

"Where were you?" I heard a large shout from Anjali as I stepped out.

"Umm I went to freshen up" I said looking back at the toilets I had just come out of.

"I was so worried could you inform us before?" She shouted I saw panic on her face one which was rare for this girl. I got on my knees and stood in front of her.

"Kido where would I go without telling you? Were in the sky there's nowhere for me to go. You and Arnav were so engrossed in movie I didn't want to disturb you. You need to leave this fear in your heart. I'm not going anywhere" I said in a calm voice.

"She will never leave kiddo" Arnav said from behind "she can't even if she wanted to she loves us too much" he smiled at me trying to lighten the mood. "She's addicted to us"

"Khushi let's go sit down planes about to land." He took Anjali with him and sat next on the seat next to mine. He knew we would have like to talk. I did my buckle then turned to hear. "Why were you scared?"

"I wasn't" she tried to defend herself.

"Kido!" I said "you've never his anything from me don't start now"

"I just don't want to lose you or Bhai" she said in a low voice.

"Why would you?"

"I don't know I have never thought mum and dad would leave me" I pulled her into a hug. We hadn't spoken about this topic since the accident there was never any need too.

"Kido you never told me about the fear before."

"I don't know everything seems to perfect at the moment, that's when something bad always happens" I pulled back and cupped her face. After seeing so much at a young age this was expected I just didn't want her hiding her feelings from me it would only hurt the two of us.

"Nothing bad will happen this time. Trust me!" I reassured her as the safely signs came up. "Next time don't his anything from me Kido, please confront me" she nodded

"Anyway you have a wedding to plan, and someone special waiting for you to think about"

"Khushi" I heard Arnav shout from the seat in front.

Once we were out of the arrival gate. Arnav quickly directed us towards two taxis. Priya was already waiting near one of them I gave her a hug "missed you" she whispered into my ear.

"Me too"

"This will take you girls to the boutique" he said opening the door for one.

"What boutique?" Anjali asked

"Where you're going to buy Khushi's dress" Arnav answered

"Where you heading?" I asked him

"Going to drop the bags home freshen up then meet Aman." He looked at his watch. "He should be landing in 3 hours."

"Bhai why do we have to go now? I'm tried can I not come home with you?"

"No kiddo you know why we need to do this now" he said with a straight face."

"But..." He cut her off

"You slept for half that plane journey there's no way your tried."

"Fine you go relax while we do all the work" she said then got into the taxi.

"Open all the window, let fresh air in and sleep for a bit you didn't on the plane" I said before getting into the taxi. Arnav smiled at my care towards him and walked to his taxi full of bags.

We were in Central London in one of the most expressive boutiques in London. The sales assistant had just been told it's a beach wedding. I told her I wanted a smile and elegant dress. She had so far shown me three that were simple yet not simple enough for me. I wanted a straight cut flowing dress that's all I really knew. I felt like one of those who's brides who had no clue about what they were doing.

Anjali was sitting outside with Priya. I had refused to try on any of the dresses so far they were probable getting impatient. The sales assistant walked in with a clothes cover over my possible wedding dress. It felt weird sitting here on the soft plumped purple armchair in a room all alone. I had dreamt about this day for a very long tie yet felt surreal now. After all I had killed this dream many years ago, and it had only been reawaken a few months ago.

Yet I knew I was ready, ready for the day ready for the life ahead.

She opened the zip of the dress and I felt a smile growing on my lips. It was exactly what I would have wanted. A plane, simple flowing white dress made of a cotton under layer and netted over layer on the skirt. It came had a white belt on the waist to enhance curves. The top was the real show point of the dress. A transparent front with floral applique design formed to cover only the most important areas even though the neckline was high. She turned the dress and I saw the transparent applique pattern continuing on the back.

http://instagram.com/p/iFot-uoLnw/?modal=true

"Would you like to try it on?" I nodded then tried it. It felt soft and comfortable exactly what I wanted but it was a little loses around my waist.

"We're going to have to get this fitted" she said as she put a clip on the back to give me a view of how the dress would look once completed. "We know you're on a tight scheduler so we may have to rush it."

I just looked at myself in the mirror I really did love the dress yet it felt like something missing.

"I understand why don't you get started on it I'll pay for emergency changes."

"Would you not like to show it to your friends?"

"No I'll keep it a surprise" I took it off and quickly changed.

"Let's go girls" I said to the two.

"Did they not have any dresses you liked here?" Priya asked

"No they did, I choose it"

"What!" Anjali shouted

"Khushi this isn't like your normal shopping spree where you walk in and out with the first dress you see" Priya argued.

"I know, I looked at a few dresses"

"And you happy with it?" She asked me

"Yes!"

"Then can we see it?" Anjali asked

"Not now Kido it's a surprise..." "Now come on we have to find your dress" I said pushing her towards the door.

"Don't they have any here?" Priya asked

"Already checked they only do brides maids not flower girls.

"I'm not a flower girl" I'm "13" that's makes me too old to be a flower girl"

"Hmm well I'll just have to check that" I said. We walked out and I thought to first check the highs tree stores as we were close to Oxford Street. Somewhere in my mind I knew Anjali would be too big for the flower girl dresses but I didn't want her to be in a bridesmaid dress she was too young for it. I wanted her to be free that day dress like an angel.

We walked to the kids' area and the sales assistant confirmed Anjali's doubts. Flower girls dresses only went up to 11-12. She loved that and so did I but now I was in a dilemma she couldn't wear a long dress like the others however she would look beautiful in a short dress. I told her what I would like her to wear and she loved the idea. A short flowing dress perfect for a beach wedding.

The next few hours felt never ending we looked at over 100 dresses in many stores including private boutiques and high street stores. But nothing was good enough it was either to simple or the wrong colour. Some dresses looked puff on her, some pricked her and some just didn't fit well. We were on a time limit so finding the perfect dress was vital. Somewhere it felt even months to plan would not have been enough time. So far the best dress we had seen was a light blue sleeveless dress made of chiffon with floral appliqu on the sleeves it felt right but was just too short. Like many other dresses it ended above her knees. I knew Arnav would kill me if I got that for her. The dress was just we not good enough she needed to shine that day and nothing worked. We entered a small boutique selling couture dresses for weddings. She had brides made dresses on one side of the room and bridal dresses on the other.

"Kido"

"Khushi" we both shouted at each other together our eyes caught by a dress on display with the wedding dresses. "Can we try that?" I asked seeing Anjali's eyes frozen on the dress.

It fit her perfectly we had finally found the perfect dress after what seemed like a while day. When I looked at my watch I saw it had been a whole day we had been searching since 11 this morning and it was now 6. If not for the adrenaline and the short lunch we had Anjali would have been dead tired.

We purchased that dress and asked for it to be delivered the next morning.

There was a sudden tiredness that we had missed while shopping. Yes we were exhausted but it was out of frustration. Now when we got into the taxi Anjali's head fell on my shoulder she was fast asleep in a few minutes. It had been a long day she needed rest. I got a call from Arnav after dropping Priya home.

"Hello" I whispered

"Why are you whispering?" He asked

"Kidos asleep"

"Ohh, have you finished your shopping"

"Yes, we only have to get the bridesmaids dresses now"

"Okay you can do that tomorrow morning"

"Where are you?"

"On my way to the tailors"

"What now?" My eyes widened

"Shhh"

"I'm not shouting"

"You will" he chuckled

"Shut up, you had all day why did you go now?"

"Aman just arrived" he tried to defend himself.

"Nice excuse, while Kido and I we're scourging around in 100 shops you got to sleep at home." I said in and angry tone

"I want sleeping"

"Then what should I have expected you to be doing cleaning the house" I said in a sarcastic tone. I could tell he was smirking on the other side. "Never mind your lucky shops are open till ten or you wouldn't have a suit to buy"

"Luck? This is my intelligent planning"

"Whatever Raizarda don't forget what I told you no dark colours"

"Yes Mrs to be Raizarda I remember clearly. I won't get any blacks or greys" he said mocking me.

"I'll text you the colour"

"You decided?" he asked

"All fits into place after buying kidos dress" he smiled on the other side that I knew.

"Finally you found her dress, I didn't think you would in this lifetime."

"What do you mean by that? The dress had to be perfect that's why we took so long" I argued.

"Yes ma'am I know you girls are picky"

"Arnav"

"As long as you two are happy with i don't mind how long it took. That and not delaying my wedding"

"Arnav if for Kidos dress I had to delay your wedding I would have"

"My wedding?" he shouted on the other side.

"Yes I'm home I'll text you the colour in a bit"

"Fine bye" he slammed the phone in anger couldn't help but smile

"Bye" I said then tried to woke up Anjali. The lazy girl didn't want to get up.

"Kido were home get up." She adjusted in her sleep

"I want to sleep"

"Sleep in your bed not here" she finally moved herself up and got out of the car. I was about to pay for the driver but he told me all expenses were paid by my fianc.

I stepped out and saw my house felt like we had been away from this place for a long time even though it had only been a few weeks. I guess this was my home, my first home. I would always remember this place as to where my family first live together. My eyes traced over the building that still looked the same. The home where I grew up the place that held all my childhood memories. The lane I rode my bike on. The steam you would see over the rooftop, When we had a BBQ, the neighbors that would bring over meals when it was a special occasion. The noise over the vacuum cleaner as we hovered the car. I could live my life remembering the numerous memories of this place. The old and the new ones we had created: the snow fights, paint fights, warm nights, birthday celebrations and delicious meals in our home. One of our homes!

My thought stopped when my eyes got to the small girl who body was leaning against the front door. "Kido" I shouted and ran over to her letting half her body weight drop on me as I dragged her in. She dropped on the couch before I could say a word. "Kido go change"

"Hmmm" is all I got in reply. I put a blanket over her and let her sleep.

I quickly texted Arnav the colour of the suit I wanted him to get then thought to make some dinner for myself. I kept glancing at Anjali's sleeping form. The angel that had been in my life for years was not officially going to be related to me. I could never forget me first meeting with her she was always a bubbly child. The first meeting only showed how different she was to her brother. Just like that first moment I would never forget the worst moment of our life. When she had come running into my arms after news of our parents death. The tears in her eyes had broken me and built a wall stopping me from grieving. The couch she was sleep on now was the same place she had shared her deepest darkest fears and secrets with me. I had seen more tears then I would have like to in her eyes. I just hoped I could keep then out of her eyes now.

I poured a glass of water and walked to Anjali. "Kido get up" I said shaking her a little.

"Let me sleep"

"Drink his then you can" I said continuing to shake her

"Fine" I brought he glass to her lips and she got up on one elbow and made her drink it while she had her eyes closed. She popped back into bed once she was done. I washed that glass then filled my plate of food, picked it up and started eating my dinner. I knew Arnav would eat out it's what the three enjoyed doing in collage.

Collage days were so different to what they were now. Our relationship was so different to what it is now. Then we were a couple but now were a family. We used to enjoy say out with each other and our friends now we can't think of a day without Anjali. His main priority would be football and f1 now he can't think of anything other than business. How life changes over the year. A few years added to your age and your way of looking at life totally changes. The boys may be out today but I knew their time together would not be like it used to be. The thing they discuss may be the same but there insight towards it would be different. They can try and be those teenage boys for a few minutes but they would never be able to live those moments again.

I checked one last time on Anjali, showered, changed and then got into my bed (Payal's old room) a place which I had once dreaded to visit. If it had not been for Arnav I would have still kept this room locked, my heart locked. Stopping myself from grieving, from letting go of who was no longer there. He had become my strength that day. No words were exchanged yet grief was shared. That day had taken a burden of my back. Pain growing in my heart was let out before it could grow anymore.

If helping me cry was not enough he had even tricked me, winded me up to make alteration in this place. Something that was needed! A step to help me move on with my life, a step to help me accept the reality of my lives. It really did help me, it changed our lives a mere activity like redecoration changed the position they held in our life. It changed our family structure.

I was jetlagged yet my brain wouldn't let me sleep. The wedding plans were floating in my mind. How easily I had found my dressed, then how hard it had been to find Anjali's. And now that I looked back at it my dress it no longer fit the wedding. Anjali's dress was so mesmerising my dressed would look like a simple maxi compared to it. Yes I wanted her to shine but I didn't want to look like a guess at my own wedding.

Continue below

I know im late but its up yay!!!

Thank you everyone for your messages, i was fine just really busy with life.

Chapter 69- Change!

A pair of black leather brogues clicked on the hard marble floor. He ran as fast as his feet could take him, his heart pumping with anxiety, mind shifting through 100 thoughts. 'He had to get to his destination fast, what if something happened? She could be in trouble.' He regretted being at work today, he regretted leaving early, he regretted not listening to her words the night before. She was as stubborn as him, he had always known yet he had not taken her words seriously. The worst part was he didn't only have to think about her but also the unborn. How could he handle everything at once, he was only one man.

"With no brain" I shouted from behind, he's legs paused for a second had his wife just heard what he was thinking?' He then looked at his watch and the boarding gates. "Hurry up will you" Arnav shouted not looking back/

"I'm running as fast as I can" I shouted back at him.

"We're going to miss the flight" he held the back of his neck as he felt something hit it followed by another hit on his head.

"We wouldn't have to be getting on a flight right now if you hadn't said NO to her" I shouted at him again, he turned around to see an angry red faced wife standing a meter behind him, who was now out of breath. His eyes traced over the large white t-shirt I was wearing covering my swollen belly, down to the loss jeans than bear feet. The shoes were probable scattered somewhere on the floor near him after all his wife had aimed them at his head. He looked at me with an angry expression.

"I need you to walk faster" he said to me "not stand there and throw things at my head"

"I though losing some weight might help" I said sarcastically. He was just about to reply but saw the large clock hanging in the middle of the airport.

"Not the time" he said coming running towards me and lifting me up in one motion. He was running towards the boarding gate when I said pointing towards them

"My shoes"

"I'll get you new ones"

"Nooo" I shouted in his ears. He quickly turned back and slowly bents to pick them. I smiled as we ran towards the gate again. With him holding his 6 months pregnant wife arms and her royal blue shoes in his left hand. On lookers would have thought we were weird but we we're on a mission to get on the next flight to London.

Arnav sat me down in my seat once we got onto the plane, he then slowly bent down and put the shoes next to me. "Be right back" he said to me then walked off I closed my eyes and let myself finally process what was happening. Arnav and his sister had argues the night before when she had insisted on wanting to spend the summer in the UK after only a week in India. Arnav had been caught up by business deals and I had wished to complete my current cases so I could take a long maternity break. He didn't want her to go alone so they had a row and her dreams had been crushed. She had known the main reason she was refused was because she wanted to see Charlene. Yes she was still with him' well technically they were together for 3 years now and this 16 year old girl wanted some freedom and independence.

To prove a point the girl had decided to run away. We had walked into her room this morning only to find no one in it. Arnav had contacted a few of his allies and found out she had left for London alone, the night before. Now we were running behind her, we would be 12 hours behind once we got there but what mattered was that we would be with her.

I placed my hand over his he instantly entangled our fingers and squeezed my hand he was worried I knew, scared for his sister, but I knew she was fine. Unlike him I knew my Anjali, the confident and independent girl who I knew better than any even herself. Her ever secret, fear, joy was my own and where she was now was her home. Somewhere she knew very well. I felt my eyes close again after a few minutes, exhaustion from morning drama had probable kicked in.

I had woken up after a few hours hearing an irritating noise. It sounded like someone's shoe annoyingly tapping on the floor. I rubbed my eyes open and looked at the guy next to me who had a sulking expression on his face. He was stressed I knew but he was ruining my sleep.

"Are you not sleepy?" I asked his head turned in my direction and he looked at me with a calm expression.

"You're up already? Go back to sleep long trip ahead"

"I would if I could" I said with a sarcastic smile.

"Why do you need something? Should I call the airhostess?" his hand reached for the button

"Yes, can you ask her to move my husband seat?"

"What!" his hand retreated back

"Yes, he's making so much noise that I can't sleep"

"Noise? What noise?" I looked down at his foot which he was still tapping "Oh sorry"

"She's fine you do know that right" there was no sarcasm in my voice.

"How am I meant to know? She's not in front of my eyes" the tone of his voice was slowly raising. There was no stopping this man soon he would erupt like a volcano.

"I want some orange juice" I said trying to change the subject. His expression softened and he got up to go get me a drink I observed his face it looked as if it had fallen more. Like he had got some new that wasn't great. He was blaming himself for the current situation we were in. I put my hand over his when he was in his seat again then asked if he was okay. I had seen a fake small smile on his face he was trying to reassure me but it wasn't going to work. I thought to keep him busy with a few more small requests. I was able to keep him busy for the next hour making him run back and forth for me. He was exhausted at the end he didn't even realise when he fell asleep in the seat next to me. I placed the blanket over him and watched him till my eyes gave way and sleep took over.

When I had opened my eyes in a few hours lucky for me he was still asleep. We only had a few minutes till we had to land which meant I wouldn't have to deal with Mr concerned for long now. We would find Anjali than all would be fine again.

When I had opened my eyes in a few hours lucky for me he was still asleep. We only had a few minutes till we had to land which meant I wouldn't have to deal with Mr Concerned for long now. We would find Anjali then all would be fine again.

"Ma'am seat belts" I squinted my eyes knowing that would have woken him up. Here we go again' his eyes popped open, the blanket he had wrapped around him fell to the ground. He squirmed in his seat till he was in an upright position with his eyes tracing around the room. He was more jumpy then he was when he had fallen asleep Great' I thought to myself, good luck kido'.

"What time is it? How long till we land?" He looked at his watch

"We are just about to land sir" the air-hostess said lowering his anxiety. I placed my hand over his, he looked at me and that was enough for him, our fingers entangled as we prepared ourselves for what was to come. We needed to find that girl and fast. A little part of me was scared inside I didn't show it but I had butterflies in my stomach nervous and scared about my kido.

As soon as the plane landed and my phone switched off airplane mode, my phone rang. KUNAL was flashing on my screen. I suddenly felt my breath hitch and the flutters increase.

"Arnav I need water"

"Now?" I nodded as a reply.

When he got up and went to get me a glass I quickly picked up Karan's call.

"Hello"

"Khush I been messaging you for ages, where have you been?"

"I was asleep" something then suddenly clicked in my head. "Wait, did you message Arnav?" his tone said it all.

"Yes! Why?" he asked I covered my head with my hand this was not great.'

"What happened?" I finally asked

"She not here!"

"WHAT!" I screamed my heart skipped a beat

"She landed in the UK, but then took another flight out, that's all I know so far, I don't know where she went" I suddenly felt a cold chill pass through my body. Where had she gone? Was she okay? Was she safe? Where would she go?' A million questions were probable passing my mind that minute. I didn't know where she was or what she was doing she was meant to be in the place where she could have possible been safe.

"Khushi" my mind finally paused when I had seen my husband. He must have read my face because the next minute he was beside me. He didn't ask me what was wrong he just bought the glass near my mouth. My expression said it was to do with our angel he knew very well. "She's going to be fine" he whispered to me. I wish I could have believed his words I was now debating whether I had made the right decision by letting him sleep throughout the flight. If he was in constant contact with Aman like usual he would have known by now where she was, what she was doing?

"We need to get off now" he said slowly helping me up from my seat. We headed of the plane and into the airport he was holding me but I was shaking inside, I felt like my legs would give way. The emotions I was feeling were so unexplainable: terror, concern, unease, and nauseating all missed together. We probable passed 100s of people and 100 of bags walking half the airport. But it all flashed pass me as if I didn't even realise when we reached the front of the airport

"Arnav I need something to eat" I said seeing the exit door

"Not now" he said continuing to walk

"NO NOW" I shouted he hadn't even looked at his phone since we landed. He was taking me out to go look for her did he even realise we needed to find her, we needed to get onto another flight. He was so worried when we were on the plane why was he relaxed now?' Being here didn't mean we would find her. I now wanted her in front of my eyes and in my arms.

"We're getting late and your giving me mood swings"

"Mood Swings?" I raised an eyebrow

"Yes"

"Excuse me maybe you have not realised but I'm in this condition because of you? Just like you didn't realise you're meant to check your phone. You're meant to find out where my kido is. You haven't realised that maybe she's not in the UK" I shouted with tears dropping down my face. He stared at me with a calm expression just watching me speak as if he knew. The next moment he received a smack on his chest "where is she?" his relax body language should had told me that he not only knows where she is but that whatever the place is she's safe.

"We need to leave the arrivals tunnel and get to departures."

"That's not answering my questions."

"Gibraltar" I could finally breathe a sigh of relief after hearing where she was.

"When did you find out?" I said

"I'll answer all your questions later for now can we please get moving" he requested ushering me towards the exit.

If she was there I knew in my heart I had nothing to worry about she was safer there then she was in London. That was our home away from home our safe haven. A place where everyone knew us, people there had known my girl since she was 12 there was no way they would let anything happen to her. I still remember how they had thrown us a small party after our honeymoon. If was like a family event, everyone on the island had cooked a dish and they had made the chief guest my angel. She was fed that day like she had never been before. Everyone wanted her to approve their dish, everyone want to dance with her, and everyone wanted to make her smile. I had sat that day watching my girl have the time of her life. Receiving all the attention and love she deserved from what the world would call strangers. Little did they know they would give there life to protect this girl.

After that day she had become another child on that island, she looked forward to every holiday, every small get away and she loved just hearing the name Gibraltar. RUN AWAY' how I had not thought of it before. She had always found that location a great place to escape. There was more to this than I could understand at the moment. There were now a few other questions running in my mind.

Once on our second plane I had gone to freshen up while Arnav prepared himself for the storm he knew was about to hit him. He shut his eyes and relaxed he had nearly lost his voice after shouting at Aman earlier that afternoon. When I was asleep he had checked his phone constantly that's when he has received a message from KUNAL which read:

SHE'S NOT IN LONDON

He shouted at Aman wanting prompt answer to where his sister was. He had told him to get all his sources together and his resources he wanted to know where she was as quick as possible. He had not raised his voice while near his wife but the anxiety had resulted in him tapping his foot.

When asked by his wife to go get a glass of orange juice he had taken it as a excuse to checked his phone. He spoke to the air hostess for a minute and used her phone to call Aman. He had ignored his wife's questions when asked if he was okay. The last thing he wanted was to stress her out. He had run back and forth for what looked like his wife's little demands but what he was really doing was hiding his face, and checking his phone every time he got up. Waiting for an email to let him know what was going on. In the next few minutes he had received what he had been waiting for, she was currently on a plane to Gibraltar. A small smile had appeared on his face that second, he picked up the nuts his wife had requested and threw them in the air. He would have screamed if not for the women he loved, who currently needed to stay relaxed. If he had told her where her angel was she would have insisted on making a few calls to make sure the house was ready for her arrival. But Anjali didn't need anyone's help on that island she knew exactly what she needed to do. He picked up a new packed of nuts and headed back to his wife then closed his eyes. Only after receiving that information was he able sleep.

---

I took my roomy seat then turned to my dear husband who had known for quite some time now that our angel was in Gibraltar. Our home where the people would probably fatten her up and watch over her like hawks. No harm could ever come to her there. The gossip queens were at it day and night. Nothing and no one could be hidden from them. But they sure knew how to hid things themselves, if they wanted they could even hid my kido after all they loved her more than me. Just like another person who had hid things from me.

"When did you find out?" I asked after I had freshen up and taken a minute to calm my mind.

"Hmm" he said opening his eyes and looking at me

"When?" I didn't sound happy

"A few hours ago"

"How many hours ago?"

"Before I fell asleep, so probable 5 hours ago" he shrugged his shoulders.

I suddenly felt rage building up inside me he knew and didn't tell me "I was worried sick"

"No you weren't" he said reclining his seat

"Are you trying to say I don't worry for my girl?"

"No, I'm saying you have more faith in that girl then I do. You knew she was fine where ever she was unlike me!!" he got up a little and said to me.

"Knowing she was in Gibraltar would have changed things? " I asked

"Yes it would have" he leaned back into his chair and closed his eyes

"What?" I said hitting his chest. "Other than the fact that I wouldn't have to stress"

"You would have called your contacts and ask them to keep a watch on her" he said getting up."

"WRONG!" I shouted

"You asked Kunal to be at the airport ready for her arrival" he said with a serious face.

"She was going to be running around London we both know that's unsafe. Gibraltar however..." he cut me off

"Is your haven" he completed my sentence

"Yeah" I said looking away from him.

My haven but what was her reason for going there? What did she need to do there?' My mind was probable thinking what was bugging her. I knew my kiddo but there was more to this run then what appeared. At first we thought she ran to go see Charlene but she didn't even try to see him, he probable didn't even know she wasn't in India. My mind played their argument in my head, the words thrown at each other by both Raizarda siblings.

"Your so out of order"

"This is what right for you"

"You're only saying that because you don't want me to see him."

"I'm saying this because it's for your own good"

"Bhai I want to go"

"You're not old enough"

"I'm 16 for goodness sake"

"16, still a kid"

"I'm NEARLY an ADULT"

"Yes nearly, you're not an adult yet!"

She had stormed out the room slamming the door behind her. I had not interrupted the argument because both had sat me down and shut me up by putting a finger on their mouths. No matter how much they argued I was there main concern I had been forced to sit back and watch the two people I loved the most in the world argue unable to interrupt or solve their problem. I could now see the struggle in their eyes. A struggle every father goes through when having to trust another with his daughter and a daughter trying to gain some independence for herself.

As an alternative she had stolen that independence, one could say escaped and we were now chasing after this free bird. I would be crazy if I even though of putting the bird back into her cage.

As we grow up we see the protection that has always been in our lives as bars caging us in and the love a chain holding us down. We start to reject everything going on around us, we wish to break free. We want to think for ourselves, make our own choices, our own mistakes and show the world what were capable of. We no longer want to live under others names we rather establish our own name. Be recognised, be somebody. Have the respect everyone else has, the freedom everyone else has.

Asking for this is like asking to lose our childhood. The childhood we try so hard to always hold on to. The time we miss once it's gone. The time we wish we could ask to come back. It's the time that's gone in a flash. The time you wish you could extend for your kids, for your siblings. The memories we create become precious, the most precious moments in one's life.

Anjali was never held down she had always been given the freedom to make her own choices. Arnav and I had always been there to guide her in the right direction as guardians and friends by her side always. We laughed with her, we joked with her we were kids with her and grownups when needed. We had always tried to maintain the balance. Just like other parents would have' I thought to myself. Yes our family was unique but we were still like older than her, we saw things in a different light to what she did, we may have given her more freedom than others would have. But we would never be able to see the world through her eyes. Ever generation has their own struggles their own desires. Ones that may not be understood, but as time moves forward and the world changes people revolve to fit into the new world.

The door to my room slid open as two of my friends pulled on either side of the sliding French doors. 'Ohhs' and 'Ahhs' is all I could hear as I walked into the adjoining living room. "Wow Khushi you look amazing"

"Fabulous"

"This dress looks so good on you"

"Arnav's going to drop dead today"

"Doesn't she look like the perfect bride?"

"Priya my veil" I said trying to stay composed.

She went in my room and brought out a simple straight floor length chiffon veil she slid the pin in my head and bunched it little in the middle. The veil flowed down till my ankle the bunch not blocking the design at the back of my dress. The look was complete but I wouldn't know how it really looked till I saw it through Arnav's eyes.

"Now time for our gift" one of them said picking up a gift bag. I already guessed what would have been inside. These girls were very cheeky I took the bag and acted surprise when I saw the contents in the bag they probable thought it had everything a married women needs to impress her husband. They were probable thinking I'll turn red but I was prepared for this I just smiled and thanked then closing the bag.

"Wait won't you were the garter"

"Do I have to?" I asked

"Yes!" They all shouted I pulled the white lacy garter and slid it on my leg with Priya's help. "Who's that?" One of the girls had said after hearing the knock on the door.

"I'll check" Priya went to open the door.

"It's Anjali" she shouted after opening the door slightly.

"Close the door" I shouted jumping off the couch I was sitting on and running towards the door to close it before she got in.

"What?" Priya looked at me

"Close the door"

"But..."

"Fast" I shouted

"What the" I heard kido shout from the other side of the door. "Let me in"

"You have to wait Kido" I shouted

"Khushi why did you do that" one of them asked

"Can you go get my phone?" I asked one of the girls who brought it back in seconds.

I sent a THANKYOU message then heard Anjali shout again. the girls stared at me with bewildered expression.

"Thank you" I whispered before he walked of. It took me a few seconds after he left for me to compose myself. I smiled feeling a few tear drops at the end of my eyes.