Intoxication #1. Part 5 on pg 126/ Link to new thread and teaser pg1. - Page 45

Truly evocative banners that reflect the sense of darkness and mystery that permeates this story. Must say, the lady in the third banner is damn flexible! ...trembling like the last remaining leaf on a fall branch... nice image... reminds me of the story The Last Leaf' I read as a kid. Arnav offering Khushi solace brought to mind vividly the numerous occasions he did so in the show. "Don't speak, get your breathing in order first", said Major Raizada in a curt, authoritative voice that demanded complete, unquestioning obedience... being curt with her is also the right move as kind words might have caused her to break down utterly. Being dismissive of her fears won't do Arnav any good, though he could be right about one of her smitten fans having followed her... but such a person would have been eager to speak with her... he wouldn't have stopped when she stopped and just followed her when she began walking... that indicates someone who was up to no good... of course, as Arnav stated, it could all have been a result of Khushi's overheated imagination. What is it in his eyes that made her realise he was lying? Rage at being this imbecile fool, who had the temerity to still allow herself the luxury of indulging in hope. Rage at being this idiot who seemed to have very conveniently forgotten that in her life and with her circumstances, hoping just amounted to exposing yourself to hurt. More hurt... reflects such hopelessness and heartbreak! Khushi telling Arnav what she feels about his flippant comments was wonderfully done. Jenny, you have got the atmosphere of those film noire classics down to a T: the swirling fog weaving thick, smoky fingers around them, each lost in thoughts. Khushi's conflicted emotions are well-etched. Arnav's face was impassive and his gray eyes lazily contemptuous... makes one wonder if Khushi isn't right in being wary of him, as it looks like he is following his own agenda and has some ulterior motive in taking an interest in her... if she has any connection to his past, to either Lavanya or to Aditya or Aman remains to be seen. The suspense just build with each new chapter! The description of the suspected serial killer could fit Arnav... can't remember if he has a limp, though!