Face The Music - Jaisa Des Waisa Bhes: Page 63

Everyone stands outside the room in the corridor. "Mom!" Aarav's voice comes from inside. Sheetal runs inside. Everyone else turns around to go in. Khushi says, "Let it be! Sheetal can handle it!" All eyes on her.... Aakash agrees, "Khushi ji is right! We should leave them alone for a while." "Alright!" Nani ji agrees. Anjali nods in agreement. Everyone leaves.

Inside the room, Sheetal sits next to Aarav and starts moving her hand through his hair. Aarav looks at her as she asks, "What do you want, honey?" "Sorry, Mom!" Aarav says. Sheetal says in a heavy voice that cracks as she cries while speaking, "What is saying sorry going to serve? Why don't you listen to me? Why did you go there in first place? What of something had happened to you?" "Mom, I want to meet my Dad!" Aarav says. Sheetal looks obviously upset.. she says, "Your dad..." then she stops, holds Aarav's hand and says in an emotional voice, "Dear, I also want you to meet your Dad.. but.. everything does not happens as we wish." "Not even once?" Aarav asks in a mellow voice. Sheetal sobs lightly and puts her arm around his head and shoulder, says, "I am with you, right? What more do you want?" Aarav nods like a good child. Sheetal gives him a gentle kiss on his forehead. A smile spreads across Khushi's lips as she watches them from the door.

Later that night:

The Raizada family sits together in the lounging area having tea when Sheetal comes down the stairs. "Aarav is alright now. He is resting," she informs them. All eyes around her show relief. Arnav gets up.. his face turns a bit softer yet firm as he approaches Sheetal. He says, "Sheetal, I am really sorry. I have no right to speak to you like that. I was just..." Sheetal interrupts, "It's okay. You don't need to say sorry. I will be watchful next time." Just then Hari walks in, "Here it is, Nani ji! You asked for this?" "Give it to me, "Nani ji says as she takes the decorated plate from his hands. Mami ji says with excitement, "Arey, I forgot! Tomorrow is Karva Chauth!" "Yes!" Nani ji laughs lightly. "Can I have it?" Manorama asks. "Here, take this!" Nani ji says. Sheetal says, "I forgot too!" Nani ji, Mami, Khushi .. all look at her with a question in their eyes. Arnav's eyes have the same question as he looks at her with few frowns crowding his forehead. Sheetal gathers herself quickly, "I will be right back!" and leaves. Khushi's face shows the thoughts crowding her mind regarding Sheetal's remark.

NK says, "Hey, can I say something? I have seen this in the movies. Yes, in the Hindi movies.. you know! Ladies keep a fast..slowly.. slowly.. you know! What do you call it, aaa... 'Kadwa Chaat'..Ya!" Manorama and Nani ji roll their eyes. Khushi corrects him, "It's not Kadwa Chaat, Nanhe ji,.. Karva Chauth! The most important day for a married woman'" Anjali's face turns pale. "Ya, alright!" comes the remark from Arnav as he turns around and leaves with hurries steps. Yehhh.... ASR/Arnav is back! The tone.. the dialogue,.. the style of walk and the look.. it's none other than.. him! Khushi curls her lips and makes a face as Arnav climbs up the stairs. NK says, "Khushi ji, now what's wrong with him?" Khushi smiles and says with a little sarcasm, "Your Nannav bhaiyya does not believe in 'Kadwa Chaat'!" "Okay!" NK says as Khushi gives a broad sarcastic smile. Just then her eyes catch the sight of Anjali's face.. mellow.. deep in thoughts.. . Khushi gently puts her comforting hand on Anjali's hand resting on the sofa. That startles Anjali. She comes out of her thoughts as she looks at Khushi. Khushi gives a gentle comforting smile. Anjali manages to bring a light smile on her face as she says in a calm voice, "This is the first Karva Chauth" of my both sis-in-laws!" Payal says with a pleasant smile, "Di, I will keep the fast.. but, don't know about Khushi..."

Khushi immediately turns into a little sister and says, "Why? Why can't I? What's going to happen if I don't eat for a day?" Aakash also smiles now. Khushi points out, "And... Last year I kept fast on Teej as well!" Everyone looks at her with an affectionate smile... Khushi, however, starts chewing on her nails as she remembers what happened last year on Teej.. . How she had passed out and Arnav had caught her just in time... Her eyes immediately lift towards the clock on the wall. It's eight o'clock. She says to herself, "There is only little time left before it's midnight! In the morning, I won't be able to eat anything other than sargi'" She puts her hands together, closes her eyes and prays, "Hey, Devi Maiyya, protect me so that I can keep this fast!"

Anjali puts Mehendi.. henna.. on Khushi's hand but Khushi's eyes are glued to the clock. NK experiments on Mami's hand with the Mehendi. "Di, hurry up, please!" Khushi says impatiently. "Almost done, Khushi ji!" Anjali says, "Just couple minutes.." Mami pulls her hand from NK's grip.. looks a the design and says, "Let me see! Hello Hi Bye Bye! What have you done?... Modern art?. It's not like that.. look at this.. .. start from here.." everyone watches Mami's reaction with a smile.. Nani ji walks in with Hari in tow... with a pile of sarees on a platter. "Anjali bitiya," Nani ji says in a soft affectionate voice as she comes close to her, "See which one of these sarees you like?" Anjali shrugs her shoulder to almost imply.. 'why me?'.. when Khushi interjects. She gets up, grabs a saree from the platter and hands it to Anjali as she sits back down on the sofa, "Di, you should wear this one! This color suits you!" Anjali accepts the saree with a subdued smile. "Payal bitiya, you chose too! Which one do you like?" Nani ji asks. "Yes," Payal says as she turns to look at the sarees. Just then walks in Sheetal. As she watches everyone busy with mehendi and sarees and all other festive things.. she exclaims, "Wow! Mehendi! Can I put it on as well?" Khushi's eyes immediately show a question in her gaze. Mami, however goes ahead and asks, "Are you keeping a fast too?" Sheetal's face shows almost none to mellow expressions as she says, "No.. I just like mehendi!" Nani smiles affectionately and says, "Come bitiya, I will put it on you! Come, sit down!" Khushi looks at her wide eyed... suspicion ready to raise its ugly head as she watches Sheetal getting the mehendi done by Nani ji. Note for readers/viewers who do not know about the custom: Anyone except a widow can have mehendi put on.. no need to fast.. this is just for story's sake here as shown... Khushi is so lost in her thoughts that when Anjali says, "It's done, Khushi ji!" she does not even hear her. "Khushi ji!" Anjali says again. This now brings Khushi's attention back, she smiles at Anjali as she says, "Done!" But,.. her suspicious mind gets to work as she gets up and goes towards the stairs. Payal now comes and sits in front of Anjali to get her mehendi done.

As Khushi walks up the stairs, she runs into Aarav at the landing as he comes downstairs.

She says, "Arey, Aarav! What are you doing here? You are supposed to rest!" He says with almost expressionless face, "I am okay now. Why is there so much noise?" Khushi throws a glance over her shoulder towards the lounge as she says, "When a few ladies get together, there is bound to be noise! It's Karva Chauth tomorrow.. that's why everyone is getting their mehendi done!" Arnav says, "Oh, yes! It's the same festival when Mom keeps a fast for Dad!" I am amazed how much this five year old kid knows and remembers. That raises a flag in Khushi's head. She turns around and looks at Sheetal. Sheetal waves at Aarav with a smile on her face. Aarav nods and runs down the stairs. Khushi's suspicious gaze stays on Sheetal as Mami's question flashes back in front of her eyes, "Have you kept a fast as well?" and Sheetal answering, "No, I just like mehendi." Khushi says to herself, "No, No, Khushi! Don't think like that! It's not right!"

A bit later in Arnav and Khushi's room:

Khushi sits at the bottom of the bed. A large spread of different, delicious dishes in front of her on a table.. she eats like there is no tomorrow... says, "It's good that my mehendi dried so fast!" HP brings in one more dish, puts it on the table and says, "I will get some more!" With her mouth full, Khushi says, "Thank You! Anyway.. there is so much confusion going on in my life these days... on one hand, Sheetal ji says she is not keeping the fast.. on the other.. Aarav says that his Mummy will!.. If she will then the question is, for whom? .. So many questions.. " Khushi keeps eating.. . Arnav walks in and sits down next to Khushi.. Khushi is too busy eating. "What's going on here?" Arnav asks in a soft voice. " I am going to eat whatever I can until midnight!.. so that.. I am satisfied.. and I won't remember any of this!" she says with the spread of her hands covering the dishes on the table. HP runs in and puts some more food on the table before he runs out again. "Okay.." Arnav says and reaches for the food. Khushi slaps him on the hand lightly as she screams at him to his surprise, "Don't touch it! All of this is for me!" Arnav watches her as HP brings more food in. HP asks, "Bhabhi, anything more?" Arnav's eyes go wide as Khushi says "Some more Gol Gappe.." as she stuffs her mouth with one. Khushi is completely focused on food.. Arnav notices some food stuck on her lip. As Arnav reaches to remove it, Khushi stops him in the middle, "Huh..don't touch! Didn't I say that all of this is for me?" Arnav still reaches and grabs the food stuck on her lip.. Khushi grabs it back from his hand and eats it! Arnav looks at her with puzzled eyes.. a smile appears on his face as he watches Khushi with affectionate eyes and finds her adorable as she gets another gol gappa ready.. he says, 'Khushi, you are just like a child.." "Shhh.. " Khushi goes, her eyes on food, "Don't divert my attention! It's almost midnight!" She takes next bite. Arnav says to Khushi, "Khushi, who ever asked you to do this? No one has asked you to keep the fast. Khushi retorts as she continues to eat, "Why? It's my first Karva Chauth!.. all the women keep it so that their husband can live long.. then why shouldn't I? Anyway, last year I did keep fast on Teej!... even though I did not want to!" "I remember.. you passed out!" Arnav says. Those memories flash back in Khushi's mind once again.. how she passed out and Arnav grabbed her just in time when she was about to fall down. How he made her drink water... She says to Arnav, "Yes! And you made me break my fast before the pooja.. worship!" "Because... I did not believe in this non sense then... Neither do I believe in it today!" Arnav says. Khushi says, "But I believe in it! So, I will not eat." "Fine! As you wish!" Arnav says and gets up... then he sits down again as Khushi goes, "Haaa... so, it makes no difference to you whether I eat or not?" Arnav's eyes go wide.. he exclaims, "What the!"

"What what the?'" Khushi says.. all animated.. "Learn it from Salman Khan ji..he keeps fast for each of his heroines!" Surprised Arnav asks her with disbelief, "So, now I should keep a fast?" Khushi says, "Let it be! You will get sick if you keep fast!" and she takes her next bite. Arnav smiles and says, "Khushi, you won't be able to!" "Why won't I?" Khushi retorts. Arnav waves his hand to show her herself... his eyes say... "Have you looked at yourself?" Khushi pauses for a moment.. realizes what he says is right... but she argues, "I am doing all this in preparation for tomorrow. I can do it!" "Impossible, Khushi!" Arnav says.. doubt evident in his eyes. Khushi immediately starts in filmi style, "Then you really don't know Khushi Kumari Gupta Singh Raizada! Once I make a commitment then.. " she burps.. Arnav gets a kick out of it... he says with mischief in his eyes, "It's your tummy.. . making sounds!" Khushi still continues to eat.. Arnav says, "Khushi, I challenge you! You will not be able to keep the fast!" Khushi looks at him with big eyes and says, "What kind of husband are you?" "Okay... if I win, then no fasting for next time, okay?" Arnav says. Oh... the game of challenge... Arnav and Khushi's favorite game is back! Khushi gives him 'the' look and says, "Okay, I accept the challenge!" and gives him a sarcastic smile.. Arnav looks at her with amusement as the smile broadens on his lips.

Next Morning:

It's four AM.. all the Raizada ladies are dressed for the day... and cooking in the kitchen.. except for Mami.. who snores in the kitchen sitting on the back counter. Nani ji says, "Arey, why are you all helping me out?.. Sasuma is supposed to cook and feed her daughters-in-law..." Payal says, "Dadi ji, you will work and we will watch.. how can that happen?" Khushi says, "Nani ji, in fact, we are helping you out so that the food gets ready quickly!" Everyone smiles. Little bit later.. they start transferring the food into serving bowls.. Anjali says, "It's so much fun... to get up early in the morning.. then to have this food.. and then to keep fast rest of the day! .." Her voice mellows down as she says, ".. and this all is for the one. who you love the most!" Stunned everyone looks at her. Khushi says, "Di.. you.." Anjali looks at her.. says in a calm voice, "Don't get worried, Khushi ji.. I am alright! At least no one is deceiving my trust.. my love! I am really very happy." Manorama continues to snore... her head slips as she cannot support it in her slip.. thus waking her up as Payal asks Anjali, "Di, where should we put the laddoos..?" "Hello Hi Bye Bye! Is the food ready or not?.. the mice are running around in my stomach. I am so hungry!" As Manorama stretches, Khushi says, "Everything is ready, Mami ji!"

NK joins them as the ladies set the food up in the lounge area. Khushi looks at him surprised. Payal asks, "Oh, NK ji! How come you woke up so early in the morning?" NK says, "Payal Bhabhi, let me explain. I got up so early in the morning to give all of you.. paropkar.. obligations'!" Khushi corrects him, "Protsahit... to cheer up.. Nanhe ji,. Protsahit!" "Oh, yeah.. that's it.. sorry.. sorry.." he goes, "To cheer up! So, is everyone ready to attack? Ready for.. " Nani ji interrupts, "Aaa... stop! I have something to give to my daugters-in-law.. sargi.. something that I give to my daughter-in-law every year!" Nani ji lifts a nicely packaged gift and hands it to Manorama, "First,.. here you go, Manorama!" "Aww..." goes Manorama. And she bends down to seek blessings from Nani ji. Then Manorama hands a gift to Payal, Payal bends down to seek blessings from Manorama. NK watches them with a smile on his face. Then Manorama hands the gift to Khushi a bit apprehensively.. Khushi seeks Mami ji's blessings. Anjali watches them with a peaceful face and nostalgic eyes.. as Nani ji says, "It's the custom of our family.. that first Sasuma feeds Kheer.. vermicelli pudding to her daughter-in-law!" Mami ji agrees, "Oh, ya!" Nani ji then feeds Kheer to Manorama first, followed by Payal and then Khushi. All their faces and eyes turn mellow as they look at Anjali. When they sit down on the sofa, Anjali notices it.. she says, 'Why are you all so quiet?. You don't have to worry so much about me..I am absolutely alright! .. and anyway, it is the first Karva Chauth of both my Bhabhis.. sis-in-law!.. If the two of you don't eat this food.. then I will finish all of it! I am warning you.. eat fast!" NK jumps in, Okay, guys! So, let's attack! Come on!" Khushi also jumps to grab a banana, "Yes, yes! Eat fast.. don't know afterwards when we may get food!... This moon can be difficult at times! Doesn't show up!" Mami follows her. Payal smiles as she eats. Mami enjoys her food. Nani ji gets nostalgic, "When he was around... he used to get up with me early in the morning for sargi." "Wow, Nani ji!" NK says as he gets emotional... "A boy.. a girl.. with some 'sardi'.. cold.. I mean Sargi.. how romantic!" Everyone laughs as Khushi says, "And.. there is my husband.. snoring in his sleep!"

Just then Sheetal walks in.. NK immediately jumps to his feet. Khushi says, "Sheetal ji? How come you got up so early?" "There was so much commotion around.. so, I woke up!" Sheetal says as she looks at the Kheer on the table and says excitedly, "Wow, Nani ji, Kheer! Actually, that's my favorite dessert. Can I have some?" "Then, come, Sheetal ji! Have it with us. Come, sit down," Anjali says. Sheetal sits next to Nani ji. Mami hands the bowl of Kheer to Nani ji and Nani ji feeds the Kheer to Sheetal.. the same way she fed her daughter-in-law. Khushi's suspicious mind remembers those words of Nani ji when she talked about this custom in Raizada family. Anjali's suspicious eyes look at NK, "NK Bahi, why are you eating this food? This is especially for Karva Chauth." NK says, "Di, sorry, I could not resist!" Khushi's mind though busy thinking, "Mehendi last night.. now, Sargi too? Is Sheetal ji keeping the fast for Karva Chauth?" Sheetal enjoys her Kheer in the meantime as Khushi wonders, "If she is.. then for whom?"

The Nightmare:

Beautiful decorations... dressed up Khushi and Sheetal.. Sheetal asks Khushi, "Rice?" "Got it.." "Water?" "Huh.." Khushi nods. "Sieve.." Sheetal asks.. Khushi hands a decorative sieve to Sheetal.. . Sheetal holds it up and looks ahead.. at the moon.. then turns around and looks at Arnav dressed up in his Sherwani... as Khushi watches them with vulnerable eyes. Then Sheetal hands her back the sieve and puts her hands together, "My husband.. my lord.. my heaven is at your feet.. bless me!" as she bends to touch his feet.. Arnav holds her and says, "That's not where you belong.. you belong here".. he stands her up close to him.. then without taking his eyes off Sheetal, he says to Khushi, "Give me the water!" Khushi hands him the water.. Sheetal holds on to Arnav's hand as he gives her water to drink. Aarav watches them After Sheetal is done drinking water, Arnav smiles and says, "Awesome Threesome!" As Arnav goes to hug Sheetal, Khushi interjects.. "Just a minute!" She yells at Sheetal, "Evil woman!.. Witch!..I won't let you off easy!"

Khushi wakes up yelling.. , "I won't let you off easily!" She looks around.. she is in her bed.. in her room.. Khushi says to herself almost in a tired voice, "Now she is giving me nightmares!" She puts her hand to her head and sighs,.. closes her eyes,.. she opens her eyes as she realizes, "Hey Devi Maiyya! Today is Karva Chauth! Today I cannot eat anything.. I will have to starve.. How will I manage?" Worried Khushi throws her covers off.. and jumps out of the bed. Then she starts pacing around.. and keeps talking to herself, "Women do so much.. even the husbands should keep a fast.. yes!... No problem.. It's not that difficult.. I can do it!.. I just won't think about food.. Gol Gappe.. Chaat.. Jalebi.." Khushi holds her head in both her hands,, closes her eyes as she says, "No.. no.. no, Khushi! If you do that then that Laad Governor would win!" Still frustrated Khushi keeps pacing, "On one hand I have to find out who Sheetal ji is fasting for.. and on the other.. I have to starve whole day! How will this day pass?" Khushi starts biting on her nails..

Downstairs at the breakfast table:

Arnav and Anjali as well as Aarav sit at the table... Mami ji sits with a surgical mask on. Mami ji's eyes scour the delicious food spread out on the table. Anjali and Arnav moan with satisfaction as they eat.. obviously enjoy the tasty food.. ends up being a torture to Mami ji.. she reflexively reaches for food when NK walks in whistling... his eyes go wide as he looks at the delicious and appetizing assortment of food dishes on the table. He gets tempted.. but he controls himself and pulls back.. Anjali says, "Arey, NK Bhai, come!" "Yeah, Di!" Nk says and joins them at the table. Anjali and Arnav continue eating. Just then Khushi walks in.. her eyes go wide as her eyes take in all the dishes on the table.. She almost feels dizzy, she puts her hand to head and says, "Arnav ji!" Both Arnav and Anjali look at her as she asks, "Are you going to eat all this?" "Yeah! Why? It's not my fast!" Arnav says with a smirk on his face. Loved Loved Loved it! It was perfect Arnav/ASR style .. just the way he said it! Perfect! Aarav continues to eat peacefully. Anjali says chirpily, "Chhotey, try this! It's very spicy..hot! .. will make you salivate.." Khushi and Mami start salivating just at the sight.. as they watch and hear Anjali, "Pass the poori.. and you.. have this halva.. it's sugar free.. very tasty... have it.. do you see?"

Mami ji almost gives up, "Hello Hi Bye Bye! This much food.. should I say 'Hi' to food.. and say 'bye' to the fast?" NK and Khushi have tough time controlling themselves. Mami ji takes her mask off. And looks at the food with greedy eyes,, as she looks at the aloo tikki.. Jalebi.. the chutney.." then she says to herself.. "No.. No!.. Manorama.. yes, yes!,.. No,.. No.. No!" NK also keeps fighting the urge' "No.. No.. No.. No..! What should I do/" Mami says in a vulnerable voice.. Arnav looks at her as he eats.. a smirk appears on his face. Arnav also smiles in a subtle fashion as he watches Mami struggle, "The smell has taken over my senses.. .. No, Manorama! Imagine that you are a soldier!" Khushi nods in agreement as she avoids looking at the food.. "Be brave! On the border! Be ready!" she puts her mask on again. NK avoids the sight of food.. when Anjali says, "NK Bhai, shall I give you poori?" Initially NK nods yes.. As she moves to get it, NK says, 'No,.. No, Di! No, wait! I won't eat anything.. nothing!" Arnav looks at him briefly,.. his shrewd mind makes a quick note and he says to Anjali, "Di, pass that sauce!" Anjali puts the bottle in front of Arnav and says, "It's spicy!" Frustrated NK says, "That's it!.. stop.. enough!" as he jumps to her feet.. startled Khushi looks at him wide eyed. Mami ji goes dramatic as she averts the sight of food and waves her hands in 'no' as she says, "Enough.. it's too much. I can't take it anymore. Hello Hi Bye Bye!" she gets up and leaves the table in a hurry... "Mami!" Anjali tries to stop her.

Arnav looks at her with amused eyes.. Anjali smiles,.. NK says, "Di! Nannav.. how much more will you torture me?" as he looks at the puzzled eyes of Anjali he says, "I mean.. I mean... to Khushi ji?" Arnav and Anjali look at Khushi.. then look at NK as he says, "Do you know how difficult it is to keep the fast? It's not easy..," Just then his eyes catch Sheetal walking towards the table... he blurts, "And... how much more does one have to do to get his love.. right?" Khushi nods. Anjali says, "NK Bhai, I was just.." NK interrupts, "Joking? Right?" Anjali nods her head. NK says in a soft voice, "But.. this is not a joke! Already.. .what an bhookump.. earthquake.. it has generated here!" Initially Khushi nods but then realizes, says, "Bhookh, Nanhe ji.. hunger!" "Sorry!" NK goes., "Hunger.. hunger.." Amused Arnav asks, "Have you kept the fast?" "Yeah.. I have kept the fast.." NK spills the beans.. Arnav is genuinely surprised as he gives him "What the" look.. Khushi looks at him wide eyed.. Sheetal smiles to herself.. Surprised Anjali asks, "NK Bhai, why?" NK gives up.. says, "Di! So that I get a good wife! That's why I have kept the fast!" Anjali finds it adorable. She bursts out laughing.. Khushi smiles. Arnav gives him the look of disbelief.. NK.. his eyes though find his target. NK goes, "Anyways, I am cool,, I am properly fine! You know what.. I will find a very good wife!" Sheetal shakes her head.. Anjali finds it very entertaining and adorable.. NK says, "And, Khushi ji, I am sorry.. but you will have to spend your life with Nannav only.., It's OK.. not bad, yeah! It's okay!" Khushi makes a frustrated face.. as she watches Arnav lick his fingers.. Anjali says with a cute and eager smile on her face, "NK Bhai, tell me something! What kind of wife do you want?"

NK intermittently looks at Sheetal as he says, 'Di, I want a wife...who is modern by appearance but somewhat traditional inherently.. strong.. intelligent.. independent.. lovely.. beautiful.. and yeah, she should love to play basket ball.. very much!" Khushi's eyes go wide as she realizes that this sounds similar to Sheetal.. Arnav looks at Anjali and smiles meaningfully.. Anjali says, "Basketball.. isn't this a weird demand?" "Yeah, Di! Some girl..to makes my heart happy when I see her.. talk to her..!" Anjali smiles. Khushi curls her lower lip.. and thinks.. then says, "Sheetal ji, have breakfast... many delicious dishes..." NK says, "Yeah, Sheetal ji, sit down, please!" "Thank You! But.." Sheetal says, "I don't eat such oily things so early in the morning." That's good enough to make Khushi suspicious.. "Aarav, eat your breakfast quickly.. you have to get dressed for school, okay?" Aarav nods, "Okay!" "Excuse me!" Sheetal excuses herself. She leaves.. Arnav looks at Khushi.. Anjali says, "Aaa.. Chhotey, have this! Anjali and Arnav then moan and groan with satisfaction loudly.. purposefully as they eat... "Umm. Wow!' Arnav goes,.. "Umm.. delicious!" Anjali goes. Aggravated Khushi yells, "Di! Both you brother sister are so much alike!" Khushi covers her eyes with both her hands and walks away.. Arnav and Anjali watch her with mischievous eyes... smiles cover their faces.. Aggravated NK also leaves the table. Anjali stops laughing and says to Arnav, "It's been so much fun! But.. why are we doing this to Khushi ji? Poor Khushi ji!" Arnav smiles as affection fills his eyes.. he says in a matter of fact but softer voice, "Di, you know that I don't believe in fast.. pooja.. worship.. Everyone has a life! . How long to live.. when to die.. Di, that can't be changed by keeping a fast.." Anjali's eyes mellow down.. No one knows that better than Anjali.. her non- stop prayers and Shyam as her past.. "Hari!" Arnav calls, "Butter toast and juice for me!" Anjali says, "Oh God! Both of you cannot start your day without the toast!' she affectionately reaches For Aranv's face and pats him gently. Arnav smiles back.. as she says, "Eat!" Aarav also smiles... still at the table..

Back In Khushi's room:

As Khushi enters the poolside she says in a fierce manner, "I understand.. he is doing it all purposefully.. to tease me.. but I am not going to give up either!" She stands with both her hands on her hips. "I won't give up!" this startles Khushi! She immediately puts her hands close to her throat and wonders, "Where did this voice come from?" she looks around.. It's Mami ji. Sitting on the chair by poolside with her mask on, "Hello Hi Bye Bye! I am a strong and confident woman! I will fast, yes!" Khushi walks up to her and says, "Yes, Mami ji! I won't give up either! You are the one who understands me!.. May I.. sit here.. for a while?" "Sit .. sit down!" Mami ji says. As Khushi sits down Mami ji says, "Sailing in the same boatwa!" and heaves a sigh! Khushi smiles says, "This is nice! No one will come here." Mami nods, "Yes." Little do they know! On a mission.. Arnav enters with a bowl.. asks, "Dahi vadas, anyone?" Excitedly Mami takes her mask as she says, "Ah haan!" Khushi gives Mami a sharp look.. then both of them say in unison as Mami puts her mask back on, "NO!" Arnav shrugs his shoulders and says, "Okay". Khushi sulks with slight anger when Arnav, who was about to leave, turns around and says, "Khushi, please, make those potato fritters.. aloo pakoras.. I am craving for them!" Khushi gulps as she nods.. Arnav nods in response and says, "Thank You!" before taking off. Mami and Khushi look at each other. Khushi comforts Mami with a little rub on her shoulder as she says, "Mami ji, I will be right back! You stay strong!" "Haan!" Mami says, "Potato pakoras..." Khushi leaves to go to the kitchen.

In the Kitchen:

Khushi follows Arnav in the kitchen as he continues to savor his Dahi Vadas.. "I will tell Haripraksh ji to make potato pakoras for you!" Khushi says to him. Flirtatious lover in Arnav emerges.. he says in a soft, husky voice as he looks her into the eye, "No!.. I want the ones that my wife makes.." Gosh.. that 'wife' here was so adorable..! "I like those so much that I won't like other ones!.. " he takes a few close steps forward as he almost whispers, "I just love them!" Khushi's heart starts getting wrapped up in his flirtatious love as he says in a husky whisper standing so close to her, "Khushi. you make them just so good.." He starts getting close to her as he comes by her side and then right behind her.. continuing to talk in a flirtatious husky whisper, "First.. you cut the potatoes.. with love.. " then he leans over from behind and whispers in her ear, "Then.. turmeric in the besan.. graham flour..salt... black pepper... you add with love..." Khushi nervously rolls her hands over one another as Arnav continues to talk flirtatiously.. her heart getting entwined into his flirtatious love.. Khushi visualizes how she would make it as he describes.. whispers in her other ear.. "Then you put the oil on the gas... then slowly.. you drop the potatoes covered in the batter... into it..." Arnav now moves to the other side from behind her as he continues, "Then.. something happens.." Khushi asks with anticipation, "What?" Arnav leans over and whispers in her ear huskily, "Pakoras.." Very aware of the effect he is having on her, he whispers, ".. start shaping up.. slowly.. they lift to the surface.." Khushi moves with his voice.. A smirk appears on his face as he loves what he sees.. "And... making it.. you smell them.. " Khushi smells them in imagination and leans to the other side... so Arnav moves on the other side, "Then.. you take them out... one.. by... one.." Khushi visualizes every step as he talks.. "And then.. you.. and I.. .. eat them.. together... as we talk to each other about love..." Khushi immerses in and flows with Arnav's flirtatious flow of words.. Arnav loves watching Khushi's face.. as she reacts to every whisper of his... this flirtatious lover is playing the game of challenge to the fullest! He stands with his lips curled and smirk covering his face... when Khushi immediately says, " I will make the pakoras for you right away!" A broad smile spreads across Arnav's lips.. he knows how to get his Khushi to do something or what!

Arnav parks himself on the kitchen counter as Khushi rushes to make the pakoras. Arnav sits on the kitchen counter with his arms folded.. smiles flashes on his face intermittently as he observes Khushi.. each and every step.. As soon as the first batch is ready and comes out of frying pan, Khushi takes the plate... comes to Arnav.. picks one up and almost puts one pakora in her mouth as she says, "I will taste one.." A mischievous smile spreads on Arnav's face.. It dawns upon Khushi,.. she says, "Why are you doing this?" Arnav makes a straight face and says, "Me? What did I do? You yourself said that you wanted to make potato pakoras.. and then you said that you wanted to taste one,.." Khushi says in almost crying voice, "I can't taste!" Arnav shrugs his shoulders.. Khushi puts the pakora down in the plate and offers it to Arnav..he pulls back, "Ahh.. I am too full.. I don't want it! Thanks!" he gets up and leaves. Khushi's jaw drops open. She brings the plate close to her nose.. as she smells it.. Arnav comes back and whispers, "No one is watching! Have one!" and leaves again. Khushi looks at the pakoras in the plate with vulnerable eyes.

Khushi brings the pakoras to the lounge area where the whole family is gathered for tea. As she puts the plate down on the table, Arnav asks in a concerned voice, acting ignorant, "Oh, Khushi, why did you take the trouble?" Khushi looks him into the eye and says, "Didn't you say that you wanted to eat aloo pakoras..?" Aaksh says, "Bhai does not like aloo pakoras.." "I know!" Khushi says, "Despite that I made it! See!" she smiles and says in his words, "Warm.. deep fried.. nicely wrapped in the batter... and to go with it.. green chilli chutney!" NK drools at the sight of the pakoras.. Mami cannot take it anymore... she laments, "Arey, why, Phati Saree.. why?" Arnav seems amused at Mami's reaction as she says, "I thought that you were my friend! Sailing in the same boatwa!" she sobs.. Khushi is about to say something when NK says, "Why, Khushi ji? I supported you so much this morning.. no one supports that much.. but. You.. this.. you should also support me that much!" Arnav is amused to watch this' "Ah, now I know about your friendship! Anyways, it's enough!" he gets up and leaves. Anjali bursts out laughing as she tries to stop him, "Oh, NK Bhai.." As Anjali goes to eat, Khushi says, "No, Di! First, Arnav ji will eat!" Khushi lifts the plate and offers it to Arnav, "here, have it!" He says, "What?. No way!.. Very oily.. I can't!" "But you said," Khushi goes to protest when Arnav interrupts and says in a straight forward voice, "Feed Sheetal!.. She is the guest of the house... look after her!" he gets up and leaves..

Loved it! Loved it! Loved it sooo much! Finally, Arnav behaved like himself... and pointed out clearly that Sheetal is a guest in this house.. His body language... his posture... his mannerisms... his tone. His eye gestures... perfect Arnav!

Anjali says, 'Sheetal ji, have some.. Khushi ji's pakoras, served hot! They are very tasty.. have some!" Sheetal says, "No, I don't feel like it! Thank You!" Nani ji says, "How can it be, Sheetal bitiya? You denied tea as well!" Khushi's suspicious mind gets up again. Sheetal smiles sweetly and says, "Really don't feel like it!" Just then Aarav says, "Mumma.. are you.. this year.. too.." Sheetal cuts him off, "Aarav, have you finished your home work?" Arnav nods in negative. Sheetal says, "Let's go then! We need to do home work!.. Come!" Khushi is in deep thoughts.. Anjali says, "Oh, Sheetal ji, but have some! Khushi made them with so much love!" Khushi immediately takes some out on a smaller plate. Nani ji says, "Yes, yes! What if you eat one?" Mami says, "Yes... If not nothing else.. eat it for the sake of your empty stomach!" Takes the plate from Khushi and hands it to Sheetal as she says, "Have some.. eat!" while she turns her face away as she finds them very tempting.. Sheetal takes the plate and says, "Come, Aarav! First, let's finish your homework.. " she looks at the pakoras in her hand and says, "I am sure.. since the smell is so nice.. these must be tasty.. I will eat them in my room, okay?" She gets up, holds Aarav's hand and says, "Come, Aarav!"

Khushi's mind now gets more suspicious. She follows Sheetal without saying a word. "Don't know when the moon will be seen?" NK says, "There is no moon!" "Nanhe.. Nanhe..! Nani ji says, "Still have time!" she points to the sky. "Okay, Nani ji!" He looks at Anjali who enjoys the pakoras, "Very tasty!" Manorama breaks into a fake lamenting cry.. Anjali watches her with amusement.

Upstairs:

As Khushi walks through the corridor she thinks, "Don't know if Sheetal ji ate her pakoras or not... Aarav must not have eaten. He doesn't like.... like Arnav ji.." Her feet slow down in front of the guest room, "It's not very difficult to find out!" She enters the room, "Sheetal ji!" Sheetal is at the cupboard closet, "Hi!" Khushi says as she walks over, "I just came to see what needs to get done for Diwali!" "Okay!" says Sheetal with a smile. Khushi touches the curtains and says, "These curtains... these curtains seem a bit worn out.. so, I will get new ones." Sheetal smiles. She drops a piece of clothing as she puts her blazer on the hanger. Khushi immediately grabs it and hands it back to her, "Here it is!" "Thank You!" Sheetal says. "And this stool?" Khushi says as she stands in front of the dressing mirror.. "This needs to get fixed.." Khushi bangs on it. Sheetal seems puzzled by her odd behavior.. Khushi, however, keeps her arms swinging as she gets to the bed, "This bed.. is this bed alright? Everything comfort.. " Sheetal smiles, "Yeah!" Khushi smiles back as her eyes scour the room.. "Oh, yeah! It needs cleaning underneath the bed as well!" She peeks under the bed.. A happy smile spreads across her face as she finds the plate empty tucked under the bed. "This means that Sheetal ji ate the aloo pakoras!" Khushi rejoices. She gets up and asks Sheetal, "Where is Aarav?" "In the washroom!" "Okay the, I will take your leave!" Khushi says. Sheetal nods and smiles back.

Khushi's happiness is not to last long enough! As she steps out of Sheetal's room she spots HP, "Hari Prakash ji, I have some clothing to give to the laundry guy! Please, come and collect them." Khushi gets closer to HP who has his mouth stuffed. Khushi asks, "What happened? Why are you not saying anything?" HP chews faster and faster,.. Khushi makes faces as she does not understand, "What?" HP finally is able to speak as he swallows, "Bhabhi ji, your aloo pakoras today are excellent!" Khushi asks him, "What? You ate those aloo pakoras?" "Sheetal madam gave it to me! She said that she did not feel like eating so, gave it to me. Bhabhi ji, excellent! Enjoyed them!" HP says as he leaves.

Now it is confirmed in Khushi's mind, "This means that Sheetal ji has kept the fast! She did not eat lunch either. ,..and she is hiding it from us? Why is it necessary to hide? " Khushi thinks and infers, "There is only one reason... the one she is keeping the fast for, that person is in this house!" Khushi's heart sinks.

In the evening:

Raizada Mansion is well decorated for the event. Nani ji welcomes the guest ladies, "Come on in!" Mami ji and Anjali join her in welcoming the guests. Khushi talks with one of the guests, "Whenever you feel like eating, think that obesity is hiding in the food! Then think of this as well, that by not eating what huge obligation you have done to yourself!" She smiles. Mami ji, Nani ji and Anjali talk with the guest. Nani ji says, "The moon must be about to come up.." that's when she sees Sheetal, "Arey, Sheetal bitiya, come here for a bit!" Sheetal walks over to them. Nani ji introduces her to the guests, "This is Sheetal ji.. Our Arnav's friend from college!" Sheetal puts her hands together.. and smiles.. the ladies pose a question, "Sheetal ji, what does your husband do?" Khushi is all ears from a distance. Nani ji, Mami ji, and Anjali's face go pale.. eyes wide.. Sheetal says, "Sorry, just a minute! I will check on Aarav." As everyone looks at her...

Finally Nani calls, "Khushi bitiya!" Khushi looks at Nani ji, "Arey, can you go and see if the moon has come up or not?" "Oh, yeah! I will be right back!" she says to guest and leaves.

By the poolside:

Beautifully decorated poolside... Arnav is on the phone.. dressed in a blue kurta.. "Yes, Aman, tomorrow's meeting.." His eyes spot Khushi as she walks in.. dressed in a adorned red saree... adorned with just enough jewelry.. Khushi stands with both her hands on her hips as she looks at the sky and says with some frustration, "Why hasn't the moon come up yet?" Arnav's gaze naturally follows her gaze to the sky.. only stars up in the sky.. no moon. Khushi's gaze then settles on a table by poolside that is nicely decorated and has food on it. She looks at the plate full of Aloo-Pooris.. Her hungry stomach and eager mind, reflects immediately as she lifts both her hands, makes fists with them.. her face full of joy and anticipation, she walks up to the table.. as she says "Hayee.." but.. as soon as she gets to the table the plate disappears.. Arnav's eyes are on Khushi and his attention diverted to her... "Kya?" Khushi says as the plate disappears. "Ah.. yes.. I'm here.." Arnav says on the phone... but his attention is again caught by Khushi as she says, "There is no food, Khushi.." A smile appears on his face as affection fills his eyes... watching Khushi talk to herself and say, "There is no food here!" Khushi closes her eyes.. lets out a deep breath.. and opens her eyes again... only to find a pot full of Jalebis sitting on the table in front of her... beckoning her... A sweet helpless smile appears on her face.... "Jalebi.." Khushi tucks her hair back and bends to grab a Jalebi... she picks one Jalebi up and closes her eyes as she is about to put that in her mouth when it disappears.. Khushi realizes that there is nothing in her hand.

Arnav watches her with amused eyes as he tries to pay attention to his conversation with Aman... but how could he miss out on such a beautiful opportunity that his zalli Khushi is providing to him... his eyes... glued to her face.. he says on the phone, "Listen, I will call you back!" Khushi in the meantime, frustrated, looks at the sky and says, "Hey, Devi Maiyya, you test me, no problem. But.. why are you testing me over and over? .. and that too regarding food.." she runs her hand on her stomach.. Frustrated she puts her hands on her hips and closes her eyes.. she decides.. opens her eyes and all animated, says, "Enough! Now, I won't think about food..." happy with her decision she closes her eyes. A smile on her face. Arnav walks up to her, "Khushi!" he says in his soft husky voice.. Shhhssh.. for the umpteenth time.. he kills me whenever he calls her like that... Khushi stands there with her eyes closed.. smile on her face.. seems mesmerizing... beautiful... Arnav is all game.. for his challenge.. with a slight mischief in his eyes, he holds a bowl full of Jalebis in front of her.. The smell enters Khushi's nose.. she sniffs and follows the bowl sniffing... her eyes still closed, she says, "No!.. Neither would I think about food. Nor would I look at it!" Arnav is not going to give up so easily.. he says in a soft voice, "Khushi, have one... No one is watching.. and I won't tell anyone!" OMG.. when I watched this part for the twentieth time .. I realized that this Khushi is just sooo.. adorable ... how can anyone stay away from her! Just so cute.. so adorable.. so beautiful... Anyone is bound to lose their heart to her!

Khushi opens her eyes.. hurt evident in them. As she looks Arnav into the eye.. his eyes with flicker of mischief.. her eyes.. hurt and anger mounting them.. she goes off on him contrary to his expectations, "What are you thinking? That I have kept this fast because someone is watching me? Just to show off?" Arnav puts the bowl down on the table as he says, "Khushi, I.." Khushi interrupts him as she yells at him with aggravation and frustration, "This all is a joke to you?... okay, alright! I accept that I am getting hungry' I accept that I see food over and over' Forgive me!" She puts her hands together.. as she continues in an angry voice, "This might be a joke for you, but not for me! I want to keep this fast!" Arnav listens to her.. he reaches out to her as he goes to touch her face, "Okay, I am sorry.." But Khushi pushes his hand away with anger.. Arnav looks at her.. a question is his eyes..."why?" Khushi looks him into the eye and says, "I want to stay happy with only you, Arnav ji!.. forever..." His gaze soft.. his face relaxed. His eyes cajoling... he watches Khushi's eyes well up and her voice crack as she says, "And... I know that this fast will make that forever.... even longer... Don't you understand even this much?" Arnav bows his head briefly as he goes, "Shhh.." in a soft whisper.. takes few steps forward and puts one hand on her shoulder, wraps other one around her head and pulls her in his embrace as he puts her head on his shoulder. Khushi wraps her arms around him as she closes her eyes. "I am sorry.." Arnav says in a very soft voice as his gentle hand soothes her over her head and shoulder.. Khushi hugs him tight as he continues to hold her in his embrace and says, "I was just... Khushi, can I do something... to make you feel better?"God... this moment is just sooo beautiful...dream of every lover...

Khushi pulls away from Arnav's embrace and makes a sulked face.. as he continues to hold her close with one arm, she points to the sky..and makes a circle.. to depict the moon.. Arnav's eyes twinkle as something occurs to him.. his eyes gentler... as he looks at Khushi, her eyes ask him, "Can you?" She nods gently to say, "Will you?".. Arnav looks her into the eye... a flicker of smile on his face.. gaze soft and affectionate... his face brightens as his caressing hand holds Khushi by the arm... and leads her gingerly to the pool... he makes an eye gesture to suggest that she looks into the pool... his gaze settles on Khushi's face as she leans to look at the pool water.. . Khushi sees her reflection in the pool water.. a sweet smile spreads across her lips as she realizes what Arnav tries to say... her bashful smile reflects on Arnav's face as a smile spreads across his face and into his eyes.

Passion fills Arnav's eyes as Khushi looks at him... he holds her gently by the arm.. slowly turns her to face him.. his gaze steady on her face.. as he lifts her other hand and gingerly brings it to his lips.. and plants a passionate kiss on her hand.. Bashful Khushi looks down... before meeting his passionate gaze.. As Arnav brings her hand down, he turns her slightly around and moves behind her.. His passionate hands caress her arms.. Khushi closes her eyes and leans behind to rest her body close to his chest. Khushi swings gently with Arnav as he holds her close and his warm breaths touch her face... as she pulls away, Arnav's hand grabs her hand quickly and pulls her back twirling around herself, back into his embrace.. as he wraps his arm around her waist and holds the other one in his hand, Khushi wraps her arm around his on her waist. As they dance away together.. happiness fills Khushi's face.. passion exudes from Arnav's eyes.. as he lifts Khushi, puts her back on her fit.. and they dance away passionately wrapped in each others arms... Their gazes intertwined... as passion fills his heart, Arnav lifts Khushi in his arms.. Khushi wraps her arms around his neck. They keep looking into each other's eyes as he gingerly.. as they dance away... passion mounts in Arnav's heart and his eyes.. he brings his face closer to Khushi's.. his lips get closer when bashfully Khushi makes him lower herself and back on her feet and moves away from his embrace..

Arnav follows her as she stands slightly away.. her gaze lowered.. shy.. he walks close to her.. his caressing hands touch her as he stands close behind her.. Khushi closes her eyes and leans back. Then she slowly turns around and wraps her arms around his neck as she hugs him tightly. Arnav's hands immediately wrap around her as he holds her close to his heart. A happy smile.. contentment fills Arnav's face as they hug tight... Then Khushi pulls away slightly as Arnav keeps holding her in his embrace, Khushi looks him into the eye and says, "Today is very special for me..." "Why so special?" Arnav asks her. "Because this is my first Karva Cahuth... I have kept the fast for your happiness, prosperity, and long life.. and will that every year!" "Khushi, can one fast do all this?" Arnav asks sincerely. "I believe so!" she says.. then she gives him a gentle squeeze on his arms as she moves out of his embrace.. a smile on her face.. Arnav looks at her. .





Khushi reaches for the Kumkum box on the table.. as she struggles to open it, he comes by her side to the table.. the tiny box opens but spills kumkum in the air.. some of it goes into Khushi's eye, "Ahhh.." a sigh escapes her mouth as she closes her eye and puts the box on the table reflexively.. her hand goes to her eye.. Arnav looks at her with worried eyes. "Shh.. oye.. oye.." he holds her close and blows the kumkum from her face as she stands there with her eyes closed. Khushi opens her eyes as Arnav holds her face in his hand and looks him into the eye. Khushi turns bashful again as his hand caresses her face ever so gently and his eyes caress her face passionately...

Khushi reaches for the pooja thali when Arnav swiftly grabs it and moves it away.. surprising Khushi.. his one hand holding her by the arm and other holding the pooja thali away from her.. His hand pulls her close.. as she exclaims, "Arnav ji!".. he stretches his arm even farther as she tries to reach the thali... unknowingly... flushing her body snug to his.. his face close to hers.. his passionate eyes talk to her... her defense melts down.. she understands the language his eyes speak to her.. she moves her luscious lips close to his waiting lips... Arnav should have known better.. his mischievous lover quickly grabs the thali from his hands he gets distracted,..leaving him waiting.. But.. her earring gets caught in the button of his kurta.. "Ahh.." she sighs in pain,.. "Wait.." Arnav says as he struggles to untangle it.. Khushi moans in pain as he says, "Wait... wait.." Her ear stuck to his chest.. holding the pooja thali in one hand.. she asks, "Done?" "Huh!" he goes.. Khushi looks up,.. gazes into Arnav's waiting eyes as she moves her head up.. the memory from soon after their first marriage.. when Khushi's earring was stuck in the button of his blazer.. he had taken it out with so much anger.. comes alive in their minds.. that unpleasant memory now wiped off.. and replaced with this beautiful one!

Both smile at each other affectionately.. as happiness fills their hearts. Khushi reaches for the stuff from the table to add to the pooja thali. As she moves away,. Arnav grabs her and points to the sky.. Khushi eagerly looks at the sky. Her eyes searching for the moon.. a mischievous smile spreads across Arnav's face... there is no moon in the sky.. Khushi looks back at him,.. finds him smiling at her mischievously... She affectionately hits him on the chest to protest.. then moves away.... she moves few steps away when Arnav swiftly wraps his arm around her waist and grabs her... with his unexpected action, Khushi stumbles.. loses her balance.. the pooja thali is about to fall when his other hand hold it... Arnav's strong arms hold Khushi close and tight.. don't let her fall.. Khushi's one arm wrapped around his neck... they gaze into each others eyes.. as the memory from last year's Teej comes alive in their minds once again.. Khushi smiles as she gazes into his affectionate eyes, says, "Hold me! Be there for me!" He says in a soft voice, "I will always be there!" Both smile at each other with this promise as their hearts fill with happiness and contentment.