Valentines OS Contest Voting

(Banner courtesy to ..RimJim..)

Salaam Namaste all you wonderful IPKKND-ers out there! 🤗

Here, we are back with the voting round of the most amazing contest we have had the Valentines OS Contest.

What this post will entail is that read the entries in the posts below and then vote in your own reply.

Below are some rules/outlines that you may follow and it should help you vote. Please keep them in mind while voting:

Rules:

• You must ONLY vote for 3 entries.
• Avoid multiple voting from different accounts - we will find out if you do create an MID to vote.
• Avoid any type of advertising for this round, if we happen to find out then your entry will be disqualified right away without any questions.
• You must not vote for your own entry because if you do, your vote won't be counted.
• If you vote for more than 3 entries, then only the first 3 will be counted and the rest will be ignored.
  

Last date to vote is: February 12th 2012.

If your entry is missing, please PM me (-Alina.) ASAP!

So, let's get going guys!

Alina and the IPKKND Development Team.

Entry 1:

What if you fall in love with someone who doesn't have the same status as you? What if you love someone who doesn't have a full wallet but a beautiful heart? What if Valentine's isn't all about gifts, parties, diamonds, dates and chocolates? What if it's just something simple and natural?

After all' Valentine's day is about Love, not about gifts and dates.

"No Naani, she won't like it" Arnav groaned. He had been thinking of a gift for over the past week and he just couldn't think of one. His budget was another problem.

"Khuch dilsey karo, Chotte. I'm sure Khushi will love it" Naani smiled at her grandson. Arnav and Khushi had started dating a year ago and this was their first Valentine together. The first time Arnav had introduced Khushi to his Naani, she already knew that this girl cared more about affection rather than price.

Arnav was not a rich boy. He was a simple boy who worked at a coffee shop and alongside went to College with Khushi. On the other hand, Khushi was rich; she had everything anyone could ever want.

But all she wanted was Love.

~

"That's it Naani!"

Naani laughed and ruffled his hair, "Like I told you, Khushi doesn't like all this drama. She likes something that could hold a special memory and something that she could cherish" Arnav pulled himself up and rest his head on Naani's lap.

"You know that I don't have much money, right Naani" Arnav's face saddened. "Have you ever told her that you love her?" Naani asked all of a sudden. Arnav sat up and turned away, "You haven't said it?!" Naani yelled. She held onto his ear and turned him towards her, "Ow- Naani I told her that I like her" Arnav said as Naani pulled on his ear.

"That is not what you say to me when you get home!" by now Arnav was whimpering in pain, "I'll tell her Naani" Arnav promised. "You're telling her today!" Naani ordered him. He looked up horrified, "Aaj?!"

"Yes, today." She let go of his ear. "But I don't have anything with me Naani' no present, no chocolates or anything!"

"You gave her your heart, Chotte" she smiled.

~

'How am I supposed to do this?!' Arnav asked himself walking back and forth.

"Arnav?" hearing his name Arnav turned around and looked at Khushi. She was simply dressed in a white dress and she didn't seem to look like she was a rich brat. She looked like a normal decent girl.

"Hi" he waved at her.

"Ghaddhey! Why are you saying hi?! At least wish her!" Naani's voice echoed in Arnav's ear. He shouldn't have worn his Bluetooth today. "Hey" Khushi casually replied and moved near Arnav.

"Tell her!" Naani scolded Arnav.

"Happy Valentine's day, Khushi" he smiled at her.

"Are you hugging her?" Arnav closed his eyes, "Stop ruining the moment Naani" he muttered.

"Excuse me?" Khushi asked. Arnav stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her. She gradually slipped her arms around him as well and they slowly walked down the park. "Khushi" Arnav said her name nervously.

"Yeah?" she asked, still leaning on his shoulder as they sat on the grass.

"Aren't you mad at me?" he asked her in hope that she would say no.

"Of course she's mad at you, Chotte!" Naani yelled over the Bluetooth. God, she was making it difficult for him to say what he wanted to say.

"Mad at you for what?" Khushi asked innocently.

He hesitated at first, and then held her hand in his, "I didn't get you anything" Khushi looked up at him and smiled. "That's not what's important, Arnav" he was touched with her words, but he still felt guilty for not getting her anything.

"Come on Chotte! Say it!" Naani shouted. It seemed as if she was trying to set his love life.

"Khushi" he placed a kiss on her wrist. "Hmm" she asked as she stretched her legs out so that they could be right beside Arnav's.

"I don't know if now is the right time to say this since we've only known each other for a year' but I can't hold it anymore. I want you to know what I truly feel for you" he said with all his heart.

Khushi stiffened a bit and Arnav couldn't help but wrap his arms around her waist and pull her in his lap. "Say it, Chotte" Naani spoke softly this time.

"I know I'm not as rich as you, and I know I can't even afford a proper gift for you' I can't take you out on a proper date, and hell I can't even buy you nice chocolates! But one thing that I know right now is that I love you with all my heart. I might not be the one for you, but I truly love you and I want to spend the rest of my life with you, Jalebi"

Khushi traced her fingers across his face and placed her lips on his, "You have given me the most valuable gift ever, Arnav" she pecked his lips again.

"I have?" he seemed confused. "Your heart" she placed her hand on his chest, "There's nothing more valuable than this, and I simply love you for who you are"

"Please, I don't want to hear my grandson and his girlfriend having their private moments!" Naani yelled loudly this time.

Arnav looked at Khushi's shocked face and he burst into laughter, "I love you too Naani" he turned off his Bluetooth and placed it in his pocket.

Khushi dug her face in Arnav's chest as her face turned into a shade of crimson red, "So that's where you get your love tips from'" Khushi giggled in his embrace.

Arnav also let out a small laugh before mumbling, "Happy Valentine's day' and I love you" he said and placed a small lingering kiss on her forehead.

"Love you too" Khushi kissed his cheek.

Translations:

Khuch dilsey karo, Chotte = Do something from your heart, Chotte

Aaj! = Today!

Ghaddhey! = Donkey!

ANYTHING FOR YOU

"What do you want?"

His heart rejoiced when he heard her voice. She had known that he was there without even turning back.

"You."

"Why don't you try to understand?" she asked in an exasperated voice. "You meet me here on this day every year and tell me the same thing. My reply hasn't changed either."

"Why not? Give me a valid reason. I will leave and never return."

"The distance between you and me is too much," she said with her back towards him.

"What distance?"

She stepped closer to the edge of the cliff and pushed a stone into the deep hole. The stone fell. For how long, she didn't know. She felt like that stone. Sinking into an abyss with darkness surrounding her. It had felt like that for the past three years. From the day she had lost her parents to a horrible accident.

"You are rich."

He pushed a few papers in her hand. "I have changed everything to your name. You just have to sign to make them yours. I am not rich anymore."

"Education?"

This time he pressed a book in her other hand. "That is the prospectus for the best architecture school in Delhi. I showed them your designs and they have accepted to take you in with scholarships."

"What about family? I have no one. Why do you want an orphan?"

He stepped closer to her and showed her his iPad. Video calling was on and she was able to see his nani, di, cousin and the others on the screen.

"They are waiting for you to accept them as your own."

"I am pregnant."

"I am okay with it as long as the baby calls me 'dada'."

She was shocked with his reply. "I'. was'.. just saying. Was not serious about it."

"But I am." There was sincerity in his voice.

A long pause later, she asked, "Why? Why are you doing this?"

"Because you taught me to live, Khushi. You taught me to fight back. If I hadn't met you four years back, I would have given up everything when my Uncle cheated me with my money and threw me on the street."

He stood on the same cliff with an 'everything-is-over' look on his face. A fourteen year old girl ran to him and held his hand.

"My name is Khushi. What is yours?"

What was the use in hiding a name? "Arnav."

She gave him a chocolate. "Have it."

That was when he noticed the bandage on her arm. It was soaked in blood.

"What happened?"

She shrugged her shoulders. "I fell while learning to ride a scooty. You know what? Dad said he will teach me again tomorrow."

The wound seemed painful and it bled too much. "You want to try it again?"

"If I am frightened of the outcome, I will never learn to ride it. Just because I fell the first time does not mean that I will always fall."

Her innocent response shook him to the core. It was like she had told that for him. It made him realize that his Uncle was just a hurdle and he should not give up.

"I'll see you next year."

"Why next year?" he asked her.

"Because my parents come here every year. They met each other in the same spot on Valentine's day. This is their special place."

She kissed his cheek and his lips involuntarily curved into a smile.

"Happy Valentine's Day, Arnav! You should smile a lot. You look nice."

"From that day, I worked hard and reached this position. I am 26 and have earned a position that 99% of the people can't. That is because of you. Only you."

Tears trickled down her cheeks.

He touched her shoulder and made her face him.

He saw the same helplessness and the hopelessness that had been in his eyes four years back.

"Why, Khushi? Why have you lost the will to live again?" He wiped her tears and said, "Your parents have left Earth, not you. They are alive in your heart's every single beat."

Without looking at him, she said, "I love someone."

His heart shattered.

"He lives for me. He tries to make me laugh. He tries to be my father, mother, friend, everything'."

His shattered heart was beyond repair.

He gathered his strength for her sake. "But, what's wrong?"

A few more tears rolled down her cheek. "I am no match for him."

"You are not inferior to anybody, Khushi. Does he love you? Should I talk to him?"

"He loves me more than anything else."

"So what's stopping you?"

"I'm frightened."

"Tell me his name. I'll talk with him."

She raised her eyes to look into his. "Arnav Singh Raizada."

He stood like a statue.

Eons passed before tears dropped from his eyes.

"Do you trust me, Khushi?"

She nodded.

He carried her to his car. He drove for a while and stopped in front of a big house.

Khushi's eyes widened. It was her design. She had thrown away her designs while standing on the cliff during the first Valentine's Day after her parent's death.

"I saved every design of yours."

They walked in and found the house decorated like a wedding hall. Arnav's family welcomed them. He took her to a room which had a blown up photo of her parents.

He knelt in front of her and asked, "Will you marry me, Khushi?"

"Whose house is this?"

"Ours."

Tears leaked down her eyes and she hugged him. "I will marry you, Arnav."

They took their vows and became man and wife.

He kissed her forehead and said, "Happy Valentine's Day, jaan! The cliff is our special place from now. I love you."

"I love you too, Arnav. Happy Valentine's Day!"

Her heart beat only for him and his, only for her. Both were able to recognize each other's presence without even opening their eyes. If this isn't love, then what is?

Entry # 3:

THE ONLY ONE FOR ME

It was very late at night and she was in a pub. Another five minutes and it would be February Fourteenth. Here she was. Still Single. Being single didn't bother her. Being alone troubled her. No parents, friends, colleagues'. No one to share her feelings with.

Suddenly, the light went off. She was scared of the dark. Her breathing became heavier. When she realized that she couldn't control her fear, a pair of strong arms encircled her waist and held her close. She moved her hands to see who it was. She felt strong muscles stiffen under her touch.

Who was he?

Her right hand moved to his chest and she stopped when she felt his heartbeat. It was racing. She raised her other hand to feel her heartbeat. Hers was racing, too.

Why did her heart react to a stranger?

He was gone before she realized that the power had returned.

Her phone buzzed and brought her out of the reverie. There was a new message.

Why did she even bother accepting the phone from the man who conducted the 'Lucky Draw' contest? The answer was out of her reach.

The message said,

'Your heart still remembers my heart. When will you remember me?'

"Still remembers? Do I know him?"

Her phone buzzed again.

'You are the first girl I hugged. The first girl I shouted at. The first girl I cried for. The first girl I fought for. The first girl I missed. And the only girl I kissed and fell in love with.'

She didn't understand what was going on. How could he be the one who kissed her when, as far as she knew, nobody had kissed her at all?

'The confusion tells me that you don't remember me. How can you forget your first guy? Yes. I was the first guy to hug and kiss you.'

She walked out of the pub and stood in the corridor. There was a red arrow which said 'Follow Me.'

Was it for her?

She hesitated and her phone buzzed again.

'It is for you.'

She followed it. It led her to an elevator. There was a small 'PRESS ME' sticker over the button '5'. She pressed the button and waited for the fifth floor. There were red arrow marks on the wall and she followed them. She stopped in front of a big door which was decorated with white ribbons. She took a deep breath and opened the door.

The clock struck twelve. It was Valentine's Day.

Candles lit the big hall. Three walls were decorated with white and red roses. The other side was covered with a big white curtain. The floor was covered with white and red balloons which was similar to the colour combination in the wall. Silver stars, which hung from the ceiling, shined in the candle light. There was a table in the centre with a cake, a couple of glasses and bottle of champagne.

She stepped closer to the table and read what was written on the cake.

'I LOVE YOU, KHUSHI'

Love? Someone was in love with her?

Her attention turned towards the curtain. What was behind it?

She pulled the string in the left corner of the curtain and it parted to show her some beautiful memories of her past. Photos of her and'..

"Chotu?" she whispered.

She realized the truth in the messages. When she was born, he was the first person who lifted her, hugged her and kissed her. They had grown up together and he was always by her side. He was her only family as her mother had passed away after she was born. Fate had played a cruel hand and she was separated from the person who was her world. It had left her devastated and she never made friends after that.

The door at the other end of the hall opened and a man walked in. He wore a black three piece suit and looked dashing. His eyes twinkled and a smile played along his lips.

"Mr.Raizada'." Khushi said in confusion.

He extended his hand and said, "Arnav Singh Raizada."

She shook his hand. "Of course. Who doesn't know you? I'm Khushi."

He looked at the room, at her and then at the photos. "I am here on behalf of Chotu."

"Excuse me?"

"Chotu loves you a lot. You are his world and he wants you to know about his feelings."

"Where is he?"

"He is here, frightened to come before you to speak out his heart." Before she could ask, he said, "He is a businessman. Obviously, he has enemies. He has money and girls follow him to use him for their gains. He feels what he has can hurt you and he is frightened."

Tears pooled in her eyes. "Why did he leave me?"

"His parents wanted to shift to London. He was eight and he didn't have a say. When he stood on his own legs, he started searching for you. And he found you."

"My Chotu can't hurt me. He was my life. Still is. I don't know anybody other than him in this whole world."

He put his arm around her waist and pulled her to him. "Then why can't Gudiya recognize Mr.Raizada as her Chotu?"

Her eyes widened in shock. She lifted her hand and touched his chest. His heart was racing. So was hers. She raised her eyes to his and saw tears in them. She wiped his tears and placed her ear over his chest. She put his arms around him and hugged him.

"Chotu need not be frightened. Gudiya is always his. In fact, she has to be worried."

"She doesn't have to be worried because money and power makes no sense without her." He kissed her forehead. "I love you, Khushi."

"I love you too, Arnav."

Khushi wasn't alone anymore. They shared the cake and a little bit of champagne with the promise of a perfect tomorrow.

Entry # 4:

It was a warm morning of February. Sunlight penetrated through the windows of living beings to wake them up from sweet sleep. Today, sunlight was brighter and warmer for lovers all around the globe. Afterall, it was Valentines' Day.

Similar warmth was spread around the Shantivan, which was a place for newly wed couples Arnav-Khushi. As the sunlight touched the beauty, sleeping there, she opened her eyes to welcome the bright ray of Sun. She smiled, blushed and then, turned to look at him, her lucky charm. But,all she could find was and empty bed, with clean white sheet, crumbled a bit, due to his sleeping posture. She pouted at his absence, but smiled again, thinking he must be in the bathroom. Shyly, she got off her bed, went near the bathroom door and slowly opened the bathroom door...to enjoy his hot body getting drenched under the cold showers.

"Arnavji!", she exclaimed in glee, as she slid the curtains aside..But was sad all over again to see empty bathing area...which has captured the fragrance of his body gel. She breathed in the essence, blushed again. She closed the door back and opened up her robe to bathe and get energised for day long house hold works.

She came out, while drying her hair, and looked around for him Again, disappointment covered her face, when she found an empty room, echoing his absence. It was not just normal day...at least not for her. Because this was the day, when they first time felt for each other...though forcefully, but she became his' forever! It was valentine's day!

Tears welled up her eyes, over the thought that he has forgotten this special day. She wiped her erupted feelings as HP knocked the door and bought her morning tea. She thanked him and silently, between the sobs drunk her tea.

Whole day, Arnav didn't call her. Nor messaged her. She kept on glancing at her phone, but it kept silent. It was evening time, when worked out Arnav comes, to get relaxed, cuddling in love of his beautiful wife. Khushi kept pacing up and down the hall, but there was no sign of him. Disappointed she picked up her harmless weapon and there went round-round jalebies in the frying pan.

"Huh? If he doesn't care, so why do I?", she said while gobbling down first Jalebi.

"Why only I should think about this special day?", there went another jalebi down her stomach. Like this, cursing thoughts for him came out...making way for her sweet jalebies. Even those were not helping so angrily went to her room. She pushed open the door and ambience there almost took out "wow" from her mouth.

Her room was decorated in fairy lights, walls were covered with rose strings, sweet smell of same, enhancing the beauty of room. She was awe-struck. Looking here and there...up and down, smiling simultaneously...her eyes fell on the gift,kept for her. She quickly opened the the gift and found beautiful set of red bangles. She opened the bangles that were resting in her hands since morning and instantly wore his gift. Then, she glanced back at the dressing table and saw one more wrapped surprise. She opened it too and found beautiful red saare. Without wasting a second she zoomed into the bathroom and wore it.

As she came out of the bathroom, cladded in his lovely gift...she went towards the mirror to see herself, when she found a note written on mirror.Instantly, it reminded her of previous year's misconception about that message. Shayam's evil face flashed in front of her...but soon it was vanished on the thought that, that evil doesn't exist anymore. She read the message which said :

You look b'ful! pls come to terrace! This time, it would be me...n no other evil!

She blushed, then looked down on her toes. All the memories of previous year was flashing in her minds..still sending goosebumps. She looked up to erase the message when she saw two passionate eyes peeping at her, from the half open door. He noticed that Khushi has saw him and before Khushi could turn and look, he was already out of sight. Khushi turned towards the mirror,and quickly rubbed the mirror. Then, she made her way to upstairs. While climbing the stairs all she could feel was nervousness...same which she felt last year. She was blushing, smiling all the way to upstairs.

As she opened the terrace door, she found whole terrace shinning in small contributed lights of hundreds of candles. Down, the lowly maintained floor was covered with rose petals! She was left speechless. Slowly, she went in. It felt like heaven...and she was princess of that heaven. She looked here n there and couldn't find anyone. Then, she turned towards the terrace door and found a well built figure, hands inside his pockets! Even his dark form reflected his confidence!

Slowly, a prince suit cladded handsome prince became to be visible. Khushi just watched him coming, breathing heavily at his each step towards her, not blinking her eyes even for once. He came very close to her and held her hands. She closed her at his touch and was ready to accept whatever he does with her tonite. She kept her eyes closed to feel the pleasure that his eyes promised to give her tonite...but, nothing happened. She opened in her eyes to see what happen and found a figure knelt down on his knees. He slowly looked up at her, as if he knew that this was the time she would open her eyes. His eyes were filled with tears. Before Khushi could say anything he said -

"Khushi! I have everything today! Money, car , big firm and what not." He paused to gulp down.Then continued..

"But..But, I don't have anything to give you, for the love that you always showered on this beast. I took you wrong as always, hurt you, almost killed that Khushi inside you! But, you! You always returned all this with your love. Khushi, you know, every time I shouted at u that I hate you...I wanted u to hear those whispers which said that I love you! Last year I ruined your life forever! Without thinking about ur feelings! I... " He almost cried now.

Khushi asked him to get up...he obeyed. She stood on her toes, cupped his face and slowly captured his lips with her's. Arnav responded back. He slid his hands on her bare waist and caressed it. It was slow, but a passionate kiss. After sometime they broke the blissful moment. Khushi, still cupping his face said..

"I heard those whispers Arnavji! "

She continued ," You never ruined my life. In fact, made it worth living!

"I am all yours Arnavji, from the day I caught me while I was falling down from stage...And, Diwali was the day, when I assured you and Devi maiyya , that I am ur's...Forever!" With this she hugged him again...caressing him simultaneously..making him feel her love.

After passionate hug and long kiss, he picked her up and took her to their room...probably to gift her on the anniversary of their first feeling!

Entry #5:

The Beauty of True Love

He watched her run ahead of him, her giggles filling the air and he could not help but smirk at her childishness. She stopped at a short distance from him twirling around while he strode to catch up with her.

"Kitna sundar hai, na?" she asked cheerfully.

Arnav grinned at his paagal little wife. "Tumne to kaha tha ke tum Taj Mahal dekh chuki ho?" he countered smartly.

Khushi rose on the tips of her toes to kiss his stubbled jaw. "Dekha hai, lekin aapke saath pehli baar dekh rahe hain!"

Overwhelmed by her confession, he leant closer to kiss her plump lips but her eyes widened and her hands shot to his chest to promptly push him away. "Kya kar rahe hain aap?" she gasped. "Log dekheinge to kya socheinge?"

Rolling his eyes, Arnav snaked his arms around her tiny waist to hoist her flush against him. "Dekh rahe hain to dekhne do. Patni ho tum meri, hak banta hai mera. Vaise bhi, aaj Valentine's Day hai."

"Laad Governor kahin ke!" she laughed shyly. "Aapko sirf apni padi hai, na?"

He staked one more attempt but she turned away, giggling breathlessly, so that his lips landed on her cheek. "Khushi!" he growled.

But she had already escaped from his embrace and run ahead. He watched her go, amusement slowly eclipsing his frustration. Suddenly, he no longer understood had happened to him. Things had been completely different ever since his path had crossed with Khushi Kumaari Gupta's. And he just realised, the main change in him was that he had gone from a Laad Governor ' as she called him ' to man who thirsted for his wife every other millisecond. Hadn't he been the one to absolutely despise public displays of affection, even when it was his Di calling him by a pet name? Unbelievable!

When she turned around to smile at him teasingly, he ended up returning the broad grin before breaking into a run, his eyes burning with the promise of a punishment once he had caught her...

||

"Different hai?" he asked, his arms firmly folded around her waist, her back pressed against his chest as they stood there together, gazing at that beautiful monument.

"Kya?" she breathed. She could feel the heat of his hands on her belly through the white and red georgette saree she was wearing.

Arnav tilted his head to press his lips on the crook of her neck, making her shudder. "Mere saath Taj Mahal dekhna?" he murmured against her bare skin.

She smiled and leaned her head into his shoulder. "Aapke saath har baat alag hoti hai, Arnavji. Yahaan tak ki saans bhi lena alag hota hai. Aap nahin hote ho, to sab kuchh kitna khaali sa lagta hai..."

"You know, mujhe hamesha lagta tha key eh sab stupid hai. Bekaar ki baatein hain. I thought ke agar main life mein dil se nahin dimaag se jeene ki koshish karoun, to mujhe kabhi pyaar nahin hoga..."

She smiled at him gently and he tightened his hold on her possessively. Only he could know how difficult it had been to tear her away from Delhi for this one week alone with her. Maybe handing over all his work to Aman had been a much easier task.

When he had announced to the family members there had been a lot of complains. How would Di go to the mandir alone? Who would give Nani her medicines? Who would advise Mami on the colour she would wear every day? Who would tell Hari Prakash what to cook? How would Aarav complete his homework? The boy had himself come up to him and asked who would punish his insolence if his mother wasn't there?

Couldn't they survive for just a week without her, dammit? Thankfully he had hardly given his in-laws time to protest or he was sure the two families would have gone on some kind of strike to stop their Khushi from leaving. As he floated in those thoughts, he suddenly came up to realise she had trying to free herself.

"Kya kar rahi ho tum?" he demanded gruffly. She just couldn't stand in one place, could she? She always had to ruin the romantic moments.

She beamed up at him, taking his hand in hers. "Chaliye humaare saath," she replied.

Khushi dragged him inside the majestic tomb.

"What?" Arnav raised his eyebrows questioningly.

"Aapko pata hai ke Shah Jahan ne Taj Mahal kyun banvaaya?" she asked him. He smiled silently because even if he knew the answer, she would still explain to him. "Kyunki voh sansaar ko yeh dikhaana chaahte the ki unki patni kitni sundar thi, unka pyaar kitna anokha tha. Yeh koyi dikhaava nahin hain, Arnavji, yeh ek sacche pyaar ki nishaani hai. Hum aapse yeh nahin keh rahe hain, ke humein bhi aapse ek Taj Mahal chaahiye. Hum aapse sirf aapka pyaar aur vishvaas chaahiye."

He looked at her softly, tucking a lock of hair behind her ear. "You have that, Khushi, you know it. I'm yours forever... Aur agar tumhein koyi Taj Mahal ya kuchh chaahiye, to I promise ki main tumhein voh dene ki poori koshish karounga," he whispered sincerely to her.

Khushi giggled. "Lo! Karli na Laad Governor apni dil ki baat? Aur voh bhi poore filmy style mein! Phir humse kehne aayeinge ke hum filmy hain."

"Voh to tum ho hi!" he laughed, kissing her forehead.

She rested her head on his chest, right over his heart beat as they enveloped each other in a hug.

"Humaare Taj Mahal to aap hi ho, Arnavji," she admitted, making him swoop down to devour her lips hungrily, his mouths smothering her surprised squeals.

Entry # 6:

Surprise!

It had been five years since Arnav and Khushi had become one in body and soul, since their marriage. It was wonderful. He always surprised her, taking her for late night walks, going to road side shops for gol gappes and chanai, going out for dinner, at fancy restaraunts and smaller restauraunts. They would go out for movies, Hollywood and Bollywood. To put it simply, Arnav made her feel like she'd found her Raj Kumar.

Everybody decided to go to the mandir while Khushi went to the mall, telling everyone else she had some work to do. She went into a store that sold western clothes. She found a red and black, off-the-shoulder cocktail dress and maching black stilettos. She found a red and black lingerie set with a strapless bra. She then went to a spa and had a cleansing and waxing session. Two hours later, she came out refreshed. She bought a white shirt with a three-peice black suit for Arnav. She then went to a catering business, told them what she wanted and by what time. When she came home, everybody had come home. She greeted everyone and went into the kitchen and prepared tea. As she came out with the cups, she heard Anjali and Payal talking about Valentine's Day. She then realized that tomorrow was Valentine's Day and her husband hadn't said anything, let alone talk to her. No one else had said anything either. She handed everyone a cup and sat down with hers. She thought about her past Valentine's Days. Arnav had always given her amazing gifts, making her feel loved. In return, she'd given the best she could. Things she knew he would love. But, she thought, it wasn't good enough. She had wanted to do a party this year for the whole family and have lunch with him.

But as she had been feeling like Arnav was avoiding her, she didn't know if she had the energy to to do the party. After a long thought, she decided if he hasn't done anything, it's fine. She would show her love for him and make him fall in love with her again. She came out of her thoughts to see everybody looking at her. She then told them her plans and after preparing most of it, while leaving everything else to them, they went up to their rooms and went to bed.

The next morning, Khushi woke up first and bathed, wanting to get everyone ready before Arnav woke up. At 8 o'clock, Khushi woke up Arnav and waited for him to go into the bathroom. She then waited for him to finish. When Arnav called her for his clothes, Khushi gave him the suit she had bought him. Confused, he asked where the suit came from, Khushi told him not to worry, but to just wear it. He came out in it. Khushi then explained to him her plans, about going to lunch together and then the party that night. Arnav agreed and left for work. Khushi frowned as a tear fell as to how fast Arnav left. She then decided to ignore that and got ready. As it neared the time for their lunch, she got ready and saw Arnav come. She got in the car and the two drove to the restaurant.

Arnav and Khushi sat down and ordered their food. Khushi ordered the champagne she had chosen and the waiter opened and poured it. Arnav was surprised at this, but decided not to show any of his shock. They enjoyed their lunch and had a good time. Khushi noticed that Arnav repeatedly looked at his watch, though. And this didn't sit well with her, making her feel even more scared that Arnav was going to be spending the rest of the day with another girl or a girlfriend.

When they finished, they got in the car and Arnav started driving. Khushi was thinking so hard, she didn't realzie where they were going until Arnav stopped the car and opened the door for her. Khushi looked around and saw they were at one of the biggest hotels in India, the Red Valentine Hotel. She asked what they were doing and he repleid he had some quick work before they went home.

Arnav and Khushi entered a dark room, causing her to tighten her hold on Arnav. She sensed she was being watched, but ignored it as she approached a flat surface.

She then heard Arnav's voice, "Ladies and Gentlemen, I am greatly honored to have you here and celebrate Valentine's Day with me and my wife. I proudly present my "India's Valentine Day" Collection in honor of my beautiful wife, Khushi Singh Raizada!" he said as spotlights came, resting on the couple. Khushi, shocked, looked out into the crowd to see her whole family sitting in the front row with smiles.

She turned to her husband and asked confusedly, "Arnav, what's this?"

"Your Valentines present. A whole collection dedicated to my beautiful wife, the one person I can't live without. And I know what you were thinking, I didn't love you anymore and was avoiding you. Khushi, I can live without loving myself, but I can't live without loving you. And I was avoiding you, cause if I didn't, I would have never been able to surprise. So please forgive me and tell me you will be my Valentine's for this year and every year to come." Arnav replied. holding his wife's hands.

Khushi looked at her husband and out at the crowd, who at this point were yelling "YES". She looked back at Arnav and nodded, "Yes, I forgive you and will be your Valentine forever. Under one condition." she added with the smirk she had learned from her husband.

"Anything Jaan." he replied.

"Don't do anything like that ever again."

"Wouldn't dream of it, Sweetheart." he replied as he took his wife in his arms and kissed sealing the promise till the end of time.

Entry # 7:

Akash and payal were finally married. Arnav and Khushi relationship was also slowly progressing still they haven't confessed their love.

It was morning, Khushi just woke up when her cell ring she accepted it was arnav as sometime he calls her but today it was NK

NK: hello Khushi ji I hope I didn't disturb you

Khushi: not at all Nanhe ji

NK: so khushiji tell me what are you doing in evening?

Khushi: nothing why?

Nk: oh great actually today is valentine day and nannav has thrown a big party so I was wondering would you come with me

Khushi: valentine day party but nanhe ji that day is for lovers and you and me

NK: we can go as friends

Khushi: no nanhe ji I don't think I will come as the party is thrown by arnav ji and he has not invited I still remember how angry he got seeing me in last party he had thrown for jijji and jijaji

Nk: but

Khushi: no but I am not coming

And she cut the phone

In RM

Everyone was sitting in living room

Anjali: NK bhai what happen

NK: khushiji said no to come with me at the party

Anjali: why

Nk: she said nannav didn't invite her so she won't come

Anjali and Nk were talking and arnav was listing it from stairs. He was happy that she said no to NK but then become angry because she was not coming

Arnav went straight to his room

Arnav: I can never understand this girl the day when I don't want her in my party she came and today when I want her she is not coming

Then suddenly an idea comes in his mind.

it was afternoon when the doorbell of gupta house rang. Khushi went and open the door, it was a courier for her.

She went to her room and opens it. To her surprise there was a beautiful red gown in it and a note attached to

' please come tonight, there is some surprise for you which will change everything . I will be waiting to see you and will also send a car to pick you

From

Your, Laad governor

Khushi was on cloud nine, arnav ask her to come in Valentine's Day party. Khushi quickly start getting ready.

After 2 hours she was finally ready. She said by to amma and buaji and left for the party.

The party has just began arnav along with the young raizadas were already there at venue. Couples have start coming but Khushi was nowhere.

After sometime finally he saw her entering and my God she was looking breathtaking in his favorite color.

As she entered whole raizada clan surrounded her but she don't have any interest instead she was looking for one who was found nowhere suddenly a waiter come and gave her a note

'you are looking beautiful Khushi, come to terrace alone if you want your surprise'

Khushi look here there but couldn't see arnav, and then she thought he must be upstairs. Khushi quickly made a escape from everyone and hades towards the terrace.

When she reached there she saw it was little dark there but she saw a figure standing. She slowly start moving towards him

Khushi: arnavji

Arnav turned around

Arnav: Khushi thanks for coming

Khushi: arnav ji you said there is a surprise for me but I cant see anything

Arnav: you don't need to see it you just have to feel it

Then he come closer and hold Khushi hand and make her where a bracelet

Arnav: Khushi this is for you

Khushi: arnavji its beautiful but I cant take this

Arnav: ofcourse you can just like those bangles

Khushi: but why are you giving me this today

Arnav: because today I want to tell you something and also want to ask you

Khushi: what is it arnav ji

Arnav: Khushi would you be my valentine

Khushi: but valentine's day is for lovers and

Then she blush thinking what arnav can actually meant

Arnav: ok Khushi to make it simple for you first I will tell you then ask you

Khushi: han

Arnav: Khushi kumara gupta I don't know how but I LOVE YOU so would you be my valentine

Khushi was surprised how easily today he confess his feeling not like usually when he face many difficuly doing that

Arnav: Khushi I just ask something

Khushi: arnav ji I LOVE YOU TOO and I will be your valentine

And she hug him tightly

After spending some time alone

Khushi: arnavji I think we should go down everyone must be wondering where are we

Arnav: hmm

As they both went down hand in hand

Nk smirked and said

Nk: so that's why you said no to me.

Arnav and Khushi both ignore him

Arnav: Khushi today just you and me

Khushi: yes arnav ji we will later think about others

Then as the party begin other couples were dancing arnav too took Khushi on the dance floor

They both were dancing forgetting the world.

Entry # 8:

Os- laad Governor ki nayi rasm

Khushi opened her eyes to see her husband still sleeping

She leaned forward and kissed his cheek ...Good morning Arnavji

A: hmmm he wrapped his arms around her good morning khushi

K: jaldi uthiye arnavji...

A: kyun? Aaj koi special din hai?

K: uff oh! Arnavji aap ko kaam ke alawa kuch aur yaad rehta bhi hai ya nahi?

A: kya hai khushi

K: aaj Valentine's day hai arnavji

A: haan toh

K: haww kya haan toh?

A: khushi I don't believe in all this...

K: chodiye arnavji ... I should have guessed before, she sat on the bed with a long face

A: khushi meri baat toh suno

K: nahi arnavji hume kuch nahi sunna hai

He sat up and cupped her face with his hands...Khushi mujhe tumhe apna pyar dikhane ya tumhe pyar karne ke liye kisi din ki zarurat nahi hai...khushi meri har saans mein sirf tumhara naam hai and mujhe apna pyar prove karne ki koi zarurat nahi hai...Don't you know how much i love you?

K: haan hum jaante hain par arnavji sari duniya Valentines day manati hai!

A: khushi tum jaanti ho ki jo saari duniya karti hai woh Arnav Singh Raizada nahi karta

K: ji laad governorji hum jaante hain...par kabhi kabhi sab log jo karte hain voh kar lena chahiye...

A: theek hai khushi tumhari khushi ke liye mai kuch bhi kar sakta hoon...bolo tum kya karna chahti ho? Waise dekha jaye toh hume roz yeh Valentine manana chahiye!

K: mazak bandh kijiye aur sach me aap Valentine's day manayenge...

A: sirf tumhare liye khushi!

K: toh theek hain...mere liye matlab sab kuch mere mutabik hona chahiye toh theek hain mai jo kehti hoon aapko karna padega...

A: kya khushi? Tumhare dimagh me kya chal raha hai?

K: Kuch nahi arnavji hum bas aapke liye kuch karna chahte hain aap office jaiye aur jaldi wapis aajaye...

A: as you wish my love

********

In the evening, khushi was pacing up and down her room she still had loads to prepare for only the food was ready and she really had no idea how it would turn out...

Hey Devi Maiyya Raksha Karna...

Ting Tong

Haawww her eyes widened and her mouth was a perfect 'o'

Arnavji aagaye aur tu ne ab tak kuch nahi kiya...

She came and stood outside the door thinking of how to stop him from entering...

A: Hi khushi ...

K: hiii she said nervously

A: darwaze par khadi rahogi andar nahi aane dogi mujhe?

K: nahi aap agle do ghante tak andar nahi aa sakte

A: what the! Yeh sab tum kya kar rahi ho khushi? It's not necessary

K: chup rahiye aur jaiye...jab tak hum aapko nahi bulate aap aa nahi sakte

A: Whoa! Theek hai...she took his bag and coat ...ab aap jaiye

a: khushi mujhe change karna hai

k: mai aapke kapde Hp ke haath se bhijwa doongi...abhi aap yahan se jaiye

a: ok ok! Ja raha hoon...relax

arnav went to the guest room to change and relax for sometime wondering what his crazy khushi was upto...

a(st): khushi mere liye itna sab kuch kar rahi hai...I think mujhe bhi uske liye kuch karna chahiye...so what if I don't believe in Valentine's day Khushi toh karti hai na...

kya karun...kya karun...yeah that's it JALEBI!

After a few minutes Arnav Singh Raizada walked into Raizada Mansion's kitchen all prepared to surprise his lovely wife...

Yes! Arnav Singh Raizada was going to make the jalebis himself...

He had a tough time making it...the spirals of the jalebis seemed to be turning into some other shape...

Dammit! Yeh Khushi yeh sab itni aasani se kaise kar sakti hai?

With great difficulty arnav was finally ready with his surprise

*********

Finally after what seemed like ages he heard her voice...

AArrrnnaaavvjjjiii

His heart skipped a beat why did she scream like that!

Khushi! He yelled and ran upto his room,his heart beating two times faster...

Kya hua Khushi tum theek ho he shouted.

He ran and hugged her tight and she hugged him back!

K: kya hua arnavji hum theek hain! Itna serious hone ki koi zarurat nahi hai ab chaliye...

Arnav then noticed that she had decorated the poolside with fairy lights her personal favourite...

A table for two was ready with a small cake in the centre and all the food dishes were placed exactly how she wanted it to be...arnavji chaliye she said while threading her fingers through his...

She had a happy smile on her face now and she knew he would be surprised one by one she started opening the dishes and arnav was indeed surprised...

A: khushi yeh Italian khana?

K: haan humne banaya hai sirf aapke liye hum jaante hain aapko yeh sab khana acha lagta hai...

A: khushi tumne? Thank you... can we eat? Mujhe bohot bhook lagi hai

K: haan

They sat down and khushi served him the food

Arnav took a bite and was so happy it's very nice khushi...give me more i want to eat this whole thing

K: no you can't i also have to eat

A: no! I want the whole thing

Khushi understood something was wrong so she immediately took a bite before he could stop her...

The white sauce was full of lumps and ...never mind it just tasted so bad how can he eat this!

K: stop! Yeah kitna ganda hai arnavji! Yuck please mat khaiye...

A: i like it kyunki tumne banaya hai...

Khushi was all sad now and she sat pouting ...arnav continued with his dinner and then went upto her and kneeled down near her...

Khushi i really loved it...sach me...kyunki tumne mere liye itne pyar se yeh sab kuch kiya...what's important is the thought not the outcome...i love you

K: hum bhi aapse i love you dammit!

A: maine bhi aaj kuch gad bad ki

K: kya kaisi gadbad?

He then got his little surprise for her...and placed the dish in front of her..

She stared at him open mouthed...sugarfree hai?

A: haan

She gave a wide smile and looked back at the dish to find the words i love you khushi, beneath that were all swirly twirly weird shapes...

K: yeh jalebi aapne banayi hain arnavji? Humare liye?

A: nahi Katrina kaif ke liye! Obviously khushi! maine i love you khushi wali jalebi banayi hai na

K: aapko pata hai maine bhi ek baar aapka naam banaya tha par woh toh hum ne jaan booj ke nahi banaya tha aise hi ban gaya!

She picked up a piece and started eating happily...he also tasted one

A: Yuck! Khushi how can you eat this

K: aapne banayi hai

Both of them burst out laughing...then khushi hugged him tight

A: Waise khushi ek baat toh tai hai ki hum dono ek dusre ki favourite cheezein nahi bana sakte...

K: phir bhi we are the best Jodi

A: khushi mujhe tumhe valentine gift dena hai aur woh yeh hai ki hum dono ek hafte tak yeh Valentines day manate rahenge

K: matlab ?

A: matlab ye ki hum dono honeymoon ke liye Hawaii jane wale hain

K: aap duniya ke sabse best pati hain

A: par tumhe ek promise karna hoga...ki har saal valentines day par tum mere liye Italian khana banaogi aur mein tumhare liye jalebi...

K:ab se yeh humare pyar ki ek rasm hai

A: nayi rasme banane mein tumhara laad governor kuch kam nahi hai...

K: love you arnav ji

A: love you my khushi...

They both sat by the poolside khushi's back resting on arnav's chest and their hands entwined they both were in their heaven of love...

Both of them just sat feeling the presence of each other in their lives...their hearts whispering i love you with every beat...

Entry # 9:

Maine Socha na Tha

Arnav was leaving for office...

Yeh khushi kahan gayi? She knows i don't leave without seeing her...par woh hai ki...he saw khushi near the door and pulled her close to him...

K: yeh aap kya kar rahe hain arnavji? Koi dekhlega toh?

A: khushi mai apne room mai apni biwi ke saath hoon aur aisa kuch nahi kar raha hoon jise dekh ke koi kuch kahe

K: laad governor

A: mai office ja raha hoon

K: haan toh hum kya karein?

A: tum jaanti ho mai office nahi jaata jab tak...

he was cut off when she pressed her lips on his...then she kissed him on the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin...

a: wow yeh bonus kis liye

k: aaj valentine's day hai na is liye

a: acha valentine's day toh extra love varna nahi?

K: arnavji!

A: waise bhi mai yeh sab me believe nahi karta mujhe tumhe pyar karne aur apna pyar jatane ke liye kisi din ki zarurat nahi hai...

K: she cupped his face hum jaante hain arnavji but celebrate karne se kuch hoga toh nahi na

A: ok theek hai

Anj: chotte!

They moved away and went down...

A: kya hua di

Anj: aaj tum office nahi jaoge

A: par di

Anj: tum jaante ho na mai aaj party karti hoon aur waise bhi yeh shaadi ke baad tumhara pehla valentine's day hai

A: so what di?

Anj: chotte bas! Hum kuch aur nahi sunna chahte! Tum office nahi jaoge aur humari help karoge!

A: ok theek hai di...aapke zidd ke age koi jeet nahi sakta

Anj: kya kaha tumne

A: kuch nahi di...mai upar jar aha hoon

Anj: nahi humari help karo please

A: ok

Khushi looked at arnav and gave him a mischievous wink...

A(st): not bad Mrs. Raizada aaj aap flirty mood mai hain...hmmm nice i like it

Khushi was walking about with a flower basket in her hand as she was placing some flowers here and there when suddenly someone pulled her and all the flowers fell from her hand and in to time she was literally pasted to a wall...

A: hi

K: kya hai arnavji...aap kahin bhi shuru hojate hain...

A: excuse me!

K: chaliye chodiye hume jaana hai...

A: ok jao mujhe bas itna kehna hai ki maine room me tumhare liye kuch rakha hai aaj party main i want to see you in that

Khushi turned a crimson red...she pecked him on the cheek and ran away blushing

**********

Evening Party

Khushi walked down the stairs and arnav was left mesmerised seeing her...he walked upto her and offered his hand to her she took it and walked down elegantly...

They met some of the guests and after half an hour arnav was getting really bored...

A: khushi im bored mujhe yahan aur nahi rukhna

K: mujhe bhi...

A: let's go up and spend some time together khushi

K: chaliye yahan toh humne chehra dikha diya hai ab chalet hain...

He held her hand and they went upto to their room...arnav closed the door..

A: khushi you look beautiful...just be with me all the time...

Khushi lightly held his hand and led him to the poolside she then made him hold her waist

He hugged her tightly from the back and she rested her head on his chest...

Both of them started grooving to the light music that was playing in the background...

Khushi turned towards arnav and he pulled her close she could feel his breath on her face and neck...

Arnav placed light kisses on her neck and shoulder

A: khushi I love you

K: Hum bhi aapse i love you dammit

A: you are never going to let go of that are you?

K: kabhi nahi

Suddenly arnav carried her in his arms and took her inside the room and placed her on their bed...

He sat down and pulled her up close to his chest and khushi's back rested comfortably there...their arms snaked around each other they sat like that for a very long time...

Khushi then turned around and pressed her lips against his...

K: arnavji humne kabhi socha na tha ki hume duniya ka sabse acha pati milega...humne nahi socha tha ki aap kabhi humare honge sirf humare

A: maine bhi socha na tha!

Entry # 10:

"'and then I'd take her to an amusement park followed by a dinner. Do you think she's going to like it?"

She looked at her younger brother's hopeful face, who was all but seventeen years of age, expecting an answer from her. "Trust me, she's going to love it!" she said with a smile as she ruffled his hair.

"You think so? I'm so excited! I bought some red roses for her'wait, it's not going to be too much, right?"

"Kartik, it's going to be amazing. Now go and study for your test or mom's never going to let you go."

"Awh, crap. Yeah. See you." He said and got up to leave leaving Khushi to go back into her self-pity mode.

Kartik, her younger brother, was planning to take out his high-school girlfriend, a pretty petite sixteen year old, on a Valentine's dinner date.

High-school Sweethearts! That's what they were called in school, her brother and his girlfriend, her brother had announced so, with pride.

She smiled sadly remembering her time in high-school. And the sweethearts of her school, Arnav Singh Raizada and Moonmoon Roy. Moonmoon Roy! She had been the prettiest girl of their school, exactly three years Arnav Singh Raizada's junior and in the same grade as Khushi. Hell, she was so pretty that even her name had a moon in it, oh wait'there were two!

And Arnav Singh Raizada' she sighed thinking of him. He had been the hottest guy in school, the nicest guy she knew and'her elder brother, Aakash's best friend. She had had a crush on him since she was eleven! Eleven! In those times, girls of age eleven din't even know what having a crush was. But it took her years to realize that he wasn't going to ask a girl like her out. His best friend's skinny little sister? Now why would he do that when there was Moonmoon Roy, the high-school hottie, in his best friend's sister's class?

But she never really lost hope. He'd wave at her, and Khushi's heart would do somersaults; he'd smile at her and she's faint; he'd touch her mistakenly, and her body with shiver; he'd ask her to do anything, and she would'do anything. And so she did' she helped him befriend Moonmoon, her classmate, and eventually ask her out for Valentines, just because he asked for it. She helped them become the high-school sweethearts that they were.

Yup, Khushi Kumari Gupta had sacrificed her high-school crush for a freakin' Chand ka Tukda!

And so here she was, as single as she could have been, celebrating her 25^th single Valentine's day! With a book and probably a lot of choco', she thought as her phone pinged.

1 new message from Boss

Well, that's odd, she thought. Her boss messaging her? That too on a Saturday. She knew he always worked on Saturdays. But she din't. So why the message? Odd, very very odd, she thought as she pressed the open button.

Sorry, in a meeting so couldn't call.

Need you to come to the office in the evening.

Urgent work.

See you.

'and there went her already non-existent plans for Valentine's night. Thanks a lot, boss! Khadoos, khadoos boss!

Oh

Did she mention who her boss was? No?

Well'he's none other than the great Asshole Singh Raizada! Yup, her childhood crush! Such'such was the damned fate of Khushi Kumari Gupta.

*******************************************

"I can't believe it." Khushi saw the woman mutter to herself coming out of her boss's cabin, "how can a guy be so boring? Who the hell works on a Saturday evening anyway?" she paused for a while realizing Khushi's presence and then looked at her asked, "right?"

Khushi just shrugged in reply. She did agree to this bronze looking woman though. Who the hell works on a Saterday evening? And who the hell calls their secretaries to rot with them in the office, and make them do useless work in pretence of 'Urgent work'. Putting that thought aside, she looked at the woman again'

She must have been another one of her boss's clingy one-time dates she was sure, the ones who wanted 'something more'. The one who'

"Khushi'." she heard her boss call out her name'in that husky voice!

"Well, I'm off to look for a better date. Enjoy working." She heard the bronze woman say as she left through the dark office.Dark office. Yes. No freakin' body was here! Why was she the one to be tortured always?

"Yes, sir?"

"Sit, Khushi." he said as Khushi obediently went and sat on a seat across the table and then realized that he himself had stood up and had started walking towards her.

How does one suddenly start looking more tall than they were, like 30 minutes ago? Din't men stop growing after 21 years of age?

Oh dear!

He came and stood, right by her seat, so close that she could see the neat stiches of his trousers, so close that she could smell him, that lovely male smell that made women go crazy, like in those Axe Effect ads.

"Do you know why I called you here, Khushi?" he asked huskily making her gulp as she forced herself to look up to meet his eyes.

"Err'because there was some urgent work?" she asked. Why the hell was he looking at her like that? Like like'oh she's couldn't even explain!

"And what might that urgent work be?"

"H-how would I'?" Khushi started only to be interrupted by him.

"I'm afraid, it's urgent indeed'You urgently need to be my valentine."

"Sure sir" She said in a hurry like she usually did when he handed her some work, but it hit her as soon as she said it. "What?" she asked and looked at his face, only to see him smiling, confirming the fact that she had indeed heard him correctly.

But he din't say anything immediately; just bent down and softly touched her arms, immediate taking her mind back to his high-school touches; and gently made her stand up. "You heard me right." he said and smiled sheepishly. Really.Sheepishly! "So...will you be my Valentine?"

She gulped and continued to look at him. She knew for a fact that her eyes, right now, must have been as big as they could ever be, staring at him.

"It's been a decade, Khushi. A decade! I don't think I can follow the stupid bro-code anymore."

"Bro-code?"

"Yeah. Rule number 3, never date, or even try dating your best friend's sister."

"Is that why you din't ask me to be your valentine that day, when you asked me for her number?" she asked, still amazed, not realizing that she had just voiced out the question she had inside of her for nine long years.

"Who? That Moon-faced girl? Oh, Khushi," he sighed deeply, "that day was such a disaster. I came to your class to ask you out on a date, but it somehow all got messed up, and I got nervous about Aakash getting to know about it, and then I just butchered it. So'today I'm rectifying my mistake. And I ask you again, properly this time. Will you be my Valentine, Khushi?"

As she tried to hide back the happy tears and beamed at him, her mind went back to all the times she had had with him, all the times he had smiled at her, all the times he had touched her accidently, and all the times she had thought that he'd make a move but din't, and finally as a tear escaped her left eye, a 'yes' escaped her lips and she found herself being kissed'by her valentine.

Because'such was the fate of Khushi Kumari Gupta.

Entry # 11:

I don't believe in Valentines Day

"Arnav when will you be back?"

"I'll be late."

"But you know it's an important day today! You have to come home early."

"What important day, its not your birthday, its not my birthday, its not holy, its not Diwali, its nothing, so why?"

"Do you honestly not know what today is?"

"No. I don't."

"Its Valentines day!"

Arnav looked up at the calender and saw that it was indeed the 14^th of February. He sighed and looked at Khushi.

"Khushi, valentines day is simply a day when all shopkeepers sell cheap chocolates, flowers and cards at extortionate prices."

"I know that, but it's a day to express your love for the person you love the most."

"Baby, we do that every day. This day is nothing special."

"Do you honestly think that."

"Yes I do!"

"So you're not going to wish me?"

"No, I'm not. I don't see the need to."

"Why are you always such a kill joy?"

"I can't help it if I don't believe in Valentines Day!"

"You don't believe in anything!"

"Well its better that way isn't it! I'm not stupid and mindless!"

"Is that what you think of me?"

"Yes it is! Now if you don't mind, I'm getting late for my meeting."

With that Arnav grabbed his laptop bag and left a gob smacked Khushi. Khushi felt a surge of anger run through her.

*****

It was later the same day, Khushi had, had a clod over her head all day. Khushi looked at the clock and noticed it was near enough 9:30pm. Everyone had dinner and then retreated to their individual rooms. Khushi made her way up the stairs to her bedroom and found that it was extremely dark within. She reached out for the light switch and turned the light on, but the light didn't come on. She walked into the room and the door closed behind her. She jumped and turned but couldn't see anyone there. She walked further into the room and then saw a matchstick being lit. Khushi saw the little flame being lowered and lit a candle. The figure that lit the candle lifted it and Khushi saw who it was. It was Arnav!

"Oh you're back."

Arnav put the candle down and swept Khushi into his arms and placed a light kiss on her cheek.

"Happy valentines day baby."

"You said that Valentines Day was just a load of rubbish."

"If my wife believes in it, then I do to."
"You're willing to change your mind for me?"

"I'll change anything for you."

Khushi blushed and Arnav put her down on the recliner. He clicked his fingers and a whole lot of little tea lights came on.

"Oh wow! How on earth did you do that?"

"Magic baby, magic."

Khushi looked around and saw all the little tea lights glittering. They were everywhere, even around the pool. There were also petals scattered here and there. Khushi jumped up and hugged Arnav tightly.

"Oh this is all just so beautiful!"

"Nothing is a beautiful as you though."

Arnav smiled as Khushi blushed. He cupped her face and moved in to kiss her. Khushi closed her eyes, anticipating the soft and warm lips of Arnav's. Arnav kissed the edges of her lips and then pulled back.

"What happened Arnav?"

Arnav lifted Khushi off her feet and took her over to the bed. Arnav lay her down gently.

"This is our first Valentines Day, the first of many, many more. I'll always love you baby, no matter what."

Arnav lowered his body on to hers, aligning his body with hers as he moved in to kiss her'

Entry # 12:

I wish...

He observed her as she tried to smile at those semi-hostile faces, looking devastatingly sexy in that red georgette saree with cutwork zari border and smirked, shaking his head. He turned his gaze back to the poster stuck on the wall; more precisely, he was looking at the younger version of her. She might have been what? Seventeen? Eighteen? She had not changed very much in those ten years, though.

She still had that long dark column of waves, except she no longer wore it in a side-braid but in a ponytail for most of the time. For the more casual occasions, like now, she let that tempting mane down. Her face was leaner now, more mature. But he wished he had known her then, when she had been a teenager. What had she been like? Had she been that practical woman she was now? Or had she been lighter, easy-going, more girlish?

"I used to be dumb back then," he heard her say in her delightfully musical voice behind him and he started turning to her. "I am even more now."

"I don't think so," he flinched. "You're not dumb."

Khushi tilted her head a bit. "You didn't know me then, Raizada."

"I know you now, Gupta."

"And you think you can judge my past by looking at my present?" she smiled, genuinely amused.

Arnav shrugged. "Why not? Knowing you, I cannot believe that you are dumb. You never could have been, you never can be."

She gave him a short laugh. "Are you becoming a philosopher?"

He didn't get the opportunity to reply because a thin willowy woman had approached them. "Khushi Kumaari Gupta?" she said sardonically. "You haven't changed at all! Still that nerdy girl?" Her eyes trailed onto Arnav, widening in surprise. "Who's the hottie?" she said out loud, making Khushi blush and inhale sharply.

Noticing that she had clenched her fists till her knuckles had turned white to control her temper, he decided to take the matter into his hands. "Hi," he smiled sweetly at the woman who had dared to insulthis Khushi. "I'm Arnav. The nerdy girl's my wife."

The woman blanched to his greatest pleasure, although he did feel Khushi's eyes nearly pop out of their sockets as they snapped to him. Her 'friend' forced a smile as she mentioned her name was Dheeja before taking flight.

"Why the hell did you do that?" Khushi hissed at soon as they were alone.

Arnav rolled his eyes. "Did you see the way she reacted, Khushi? It was worth it."

A small smile appeared on her face despite her best efforts to hide it. "You shouldn't have lied, though!"

"Can't undo it now, can we?"

She smiled back at him before averting her face, only to catch Dheeja and some other ex-classmates throwing dirty looks at her. "Remind me why I came to this Valentine Reunion again?" she groaned.

"To solve the murder of your ex-teacher?"

Khushi winced, making him follow her gaze to the little groups around them who were staring rather coldly at the pair of them.

"You know, I wish I had come to this school," Arnav whispered. "I wish had had known you then."

She laughed humourlessly, "So that you could hate me too, like all these people?"

He shook his head with a grin. "So that I'd show these jerks who you really are, Khushi. And for those who still hated you, it would be my pleasure to box them in the face."

Khushi laughed. "Did I ever mention you're mad?"

***

"So we finally got him," she sighed, relieved. Now, at last, she could leave this horrible high-school reunion.

"You're the sexiest and most intelligent cop I've ever come across," he replied casually.

"You mean in the female category, right? Because I think I heard you say, the other day, that you're the best."

When he raised his eyebrows at her, Arnav found that she was really serious. "For once, Khushi, can you stop being so..."

"So what?"

"So... whatever it is that you are, dammit!"

Khushi smiled wryly before turning away, lest he held her back by the elbow.

"Now what happened?" he gritted out, a little annoyed with her. He didn't know why, but these little clashes were always getting between them, and frankly, he hated fighting with her.

"Nothing... it's just that the problem's with me," she mumbled. Arnav frowned as a sour grin appeared on her face. "They never liked me, you get annoyed at me... maybe I'm a jerk."

Arnav sighed and wrapped his arms around her waist to pull her closer so that he could rest his forehead against hers. "Silly woman," he chuckled. "Ever wondered why I get annoyed with you?"

Her eyes had closed but she was breathing hard. Was her heartbeat synchronising with his?

"I love you, Khushi," he murmured softly, making her suddenly open her eyes wide with shock. She pulled back swiftly without being able to disengage herself from his embrace. "I love you," he repeated. "And I wish that what I had told that half-baked bitter gourd was true."

She immediately scrunched up her brow. "Half-baked... what?"

He ended up laughing himself. "That woman, who had called you 'nerdy girl'?"

"What do you wish was true?" she whispered.

"Seriously, woman? I think I'll have to modify my earlier statement about your being intelligent!"

It only made Khushi frown deeper.

"I'm asking you to marry me, dammit!"

Her eyes fluttered blankly for a moment and then, she had pushed him nearly in the middle of the road. "You duffer! Was that even a way to ask? Get down on your knee, for God's sake!"

Entry # 13:

"Arnavji – where will we go tomorrow for Valentine's day?" she inquired. "Khushi I don't believe in Valentine's day. It's an overrated holiday where one simply shows off their affection for one day."

Khushi was furious. She was flabbergasted that Arnavji didn't believe in Valentine's day. Laad Governor! First God and now Valentine's day! She smiled while imagining what Salman Khan might do for his girlfriend on Valentine's Day. He would undoubtedly plan an extravagant date with good food, dancing, and those killer dialogues of his! She could just imagine him serenading his girlfriend with the song O O Jaana Jaa na. "Ifonly I was in Lucknow then Bankelalji would have made my day memorable!" Arnav smirked at the mention of her fake boyfriend. It was time to pacify her. "Alright Khushi, I will take you out to celebrate Valentine's Day."

"Leave it Arnavji. You are incapable of planning a romantic rendezvous!" What the! How dare Khushi accuse him of being unromantic! "I bet I could plan something really romantic" Khushi boasted. "Really? Well then I challenge you. Let's see who excels in the romance department Mrs. Raizada. We'll each plan a date and see who wins. Be ready at 2!"

****************************************************************************************************************

Khushi was punctual and her curiosity was heightened to the max when she realized they were headed to the airport. She carried her mini suitcase, which contained the necessary items necessary for her date and a mini cooler, into Arnav's private plane. Shortly after takeoff, the air hostess came by with a huge platter of foods like gol gappas, jalebis, and other items. Khushi squealed in delight as she devoured all of her favorite foods. Upon landing, Arnav blindfolded her as he led her to the destination. He finally opened her blindfold and she realized instantly where she was: Agra! Right in front of her, was the splendid Taj Mahal! She stared wide eyed as she entered while basking in the magnificence and beauty of the place. Arnav handed her a letter to read.

Khushi,

I chose to bring you here, the Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal true love. This was the perfect place to declare to you how much I treasure you and the love you have given me. I never imagined that I would love someone so deeply. You have brought light back into my life. Your laugh is music to my ears, your touch is magical, and your smile just melts all my worries away. Your craziness makes my life entertaining. You complete me. I recognize that I'm not eloquent which is why I am expressing my emotions through this letter. Never forget that I will always be there to protect you and love you, Hamesha!

Khushi had tears in her eyes as she engulfed Arnav in a bone crushing hug. He rubbed her back and stroked her hair until she pulled back. She then gently placed her hand over his heart and found solace in the beats. "Jab tum mere saath hoti ho toh meri dhadkane tez hojati hai, hamari dhadkane ek hojati hai."said Arnav lovingly. Moments later he lifted her hand and placed a gentle kiss over it. "Let's have a look around, shall we." Hand in hand they continued to admire the amazing architecture of this monument. They admired the different hues of the sunset from the rooftop. Before departing he gifted her with a miniature Taj Mahal, as a token of his love.

*************************************************************************************

They had just landed back in Delhi and it was now Khushi's turn. Contrasting Arnav's plan she had planned for a simple romantic evening. They drove off and she proceeded to give him directions. He eventually realized where they were going, but he pretended not to know as he didn't want her surprise ruined. Today was after all, about her happiness.

They reached the destination and Khushi insisted that he wait in the car as she needed 15 minutes to set up. He smiled at the place she had chosen, His mother's garden! In the center lay a beautiful blanket with candles surrounding the perimeter. Plates were set up and she was warming small containers of food over miniature burners. They sat on the blanket and she proceeded to serve him and herself, a variety of his favorite foods. "Arnavji, I know my choice is not grand as yours. But for me Valentine's Day is about being thankful for all kinds of love. So I chose this place to celebrate our amazing love for each other, in your mother's rose garden so she can be a part of our celebration today. Also, there are my parents (and she pointed to the sky) joining us today as well."

His eyes brimmed with tears as he was overwhelmed with emotions. He embraced her with intensity and pressed his chest against hers. He relished in the warmth of her body. "I love you Khushi!"

"Hum bhi aapse I love you dammit!" she replied. They smiled simultaneously fondly remembering their first declaration of love.

"Arnavji let's eat before the food gets cold." He began eating and she was busy yapping away about the Taj Mahal.

"Khushi let's decide now who won the challenge?"

"Hey Devi Maiyya! I can't believe that after all this you are worried about who won the challenge. What kind of husband do I have who is obsessed with winning? Mujhe koi farak nahi padta! I don't care who won!"

Arnav smirked as her listened to her banter. Truth be told, he didn't care about the challenge at all, not for today at least. He simply could not resist the chance to tease her. "Khushi you talk too much – you know that?" On that note he moved forward and brushed his lips against hers. He gently nibbled on her soft lips. Then she parted her lips as his mouth took control of hers. The moonlight glistened and the stars shimmered above, as Arnav and Khushi were lost in their own passionate world.

Entry # 14:

First day of marriage

After the marriage ceremony khushi met bauji, garima, bauji and she hugged everyone. She was crying. Arnav held her hand; ...''khushi why you are crying? Are you not happy in getting married to me''... he said to khushi.

Everyone laughed.

Anjali cupped her face; ...''choty it is natural, she is separating from her parents, and therefore she is crying''... she smiled.

Arnav smirked ... ''who is separating her from her parents whenever she wants she can meet

her parents ... he looked at khshi.

Khushi smiled.

Nani smiled; ...''OK choty it's very late now let's go''...

Mamaji; ...''hello hi bye bye you are absolutely correct sasu ma I am too tired''...

Nk; ...''yes nanav lets go nahi tu ap ki subha raat late ho jai gi''. He winked...

Arnav khushi blushed.

Akash smlied; ...'nk subhs raat nahi suhag raat'' ...

Mamaij; 'yes lets go I know khsushi betya is also tired after performed many rituals''...

They all came to exit door.

Nk, mamaji' mamaji, nani, Pyal and akash sat in jeep.

Arnav opened wedding car's back door for khuhsi. She smiled and sat. Arnav closed the door of the car and sat beside her.

Driver started to drive the car. When they reached at middle of the road khushi noticed that the road is not going towards RM.

Khushi with questioning eyes; ... ''arnavji where are we going , it doesn't go towards RM''...

Arnav smiled; ...''so what, you are my legally wife, I have right on you ...I can take you with me anywhere... He put his hand on her hand.

Khushi blushed.

Driver stopped the car; ... ''sir we reached at airport''. He said to arnav.

Khushi; ''Airport?

Arnav smiled; ...''yes airport''... He came out from the car and opened the door for khuhsi and gave his hand to her. She held his hand and came out from car...

Driver took out the bags from car.

Arnav hold khushi's hand and they entered the airport, they came to departure corner.

Khushi; ... ''arnavji at least now tell me where are we going''... she pulled him from his arm.

Arnav smiled; ...''we are going to Goa for honeymoon''... He put his hand on her hand.

Khushi blushed.

At RM.

Mami; ... ''hello hi bye bye anjali betya why love birds are not arrive at home at now''... he saw to the door...

Anjali smiled; ... ''mamaji they have gone on their honeymoon''... she rub her hand with joy...

Mamiji surprised... ''hai! When wills this happen''...

Nani; ... ''realy anjali detya''...

Anjali nodded her hand yes.

Nk; ... ''nanav tu barhi dhaki rusatm nakli''... he winked...

Mamaji; ... ''dhaki rustam nahi choopi rustam''...

Akash ; ... ''yes really I am surprised'' ...

Payal smiled; ... ''learn from your brother''...

In Goa at bally hotel at reception counter.

Receptionist; ...''welcome to bally hotel sir, May I help you... she smiled.

Arnav smiled; ...''ya Mr. And Mrs. arnav sing rizada I have booked the room on this name''...

Receptionist; ...''sir one minute I will check''... she smiled.

She checked in laptop. ..''Yes, honeymoon suite room right''. She looked at arnav.

Arnav smiled; ...''ya''...

Receptionist; ...''here is your room key sir room number 20 on first floor''... she gave key to arnav...

They reached the room, arnav opened the door.

They both entered the room.

Khushi looked into the room

It was wide and so beautifully decorated by candles; ... ''wow it's beautiful''... she told arnav...

Khushi nodded her head in yes.

They both looked at each other, he came near khushi. DHEK DHEK!

He caressed her face and kissed on her cheek, she closed her eyes ...

He whispered in her ear; ...''khushi go and be fresh'' ... he smiled.

Khushi opened her eyes she blushed.

She came out from bathroom after her arnav went''...

Khushi sat on bed; ... ''I am so lucky my first day of marriage and valentine day is same''... She smiled ... ''tomorrow is valentine day'' ... she lay down on bed she was so tired so she slept.

Arnav came out from bathroom he saw khuhsi is sleeping. He smiled and came near her and sat on bed beside her .he saw her with love, kissed her on forehead and covered her with blanket. He slept beside her, held her hand with his left hand and put his right hand on her chest.

And he slept.

IN THE MORNING.

Khushi woke up she opened her eyes slowly she saw room was decorated by red candles, red balloons and red rose flowers.

The smell was amazing. She found a note with rose on table, beside the bed.

She took the note and read it...'' I love you more than my life, I pray for you, more than I pray for myself it is my great honor that you are my wife''.

She smiled, suddenly she realized that arnav was not there.

She shouted; ...''arnavji''... she got up from bed, when she was about to step out of the bed she stepped on something very soft she looked down. The room floor was full of rose petals.

Arnav came in front, kneeled with a red rose; ''will you be my valentine''. .. He handed her the rose.

Khushi was surprised to see him like this; ... 'yes''... Tears filled her eye. She took the flower from his hand and gave her hand in his hand.

He got up and hugged her tightly; ...''happy Valentine day'... He whispered in her ear... 'Happy Valentine's Day, arnvji"... she responded softly.

Arnav left her and kissed her on cheek. She blushed.

He handed her a wrapped gift.

She opened it. It was a red beautiful sari; ...''it's beautiful''... She replied him and kissed him on cheek.

He smiled.

Khushi cupped his face; ...''arnavji one minute''...

She put box on table and took out a wrapped gift from bag and handed him.

Arnav saw her with questioning eyes.

Opened it khushi pointed to gift.

Arnav opened it, it was pic of her and him. Arnav smiled; ... thank khushi it's beautiful...

Khushi; ...''arnavji I will come in few minutes''... she took out the sari from box and went to the washroom.

After few minute she came out from the washroom,

arnav saw her ... She was looking beautiful in red sari.

He lost in her beauty.

Rabbave

He came near her caressed her face slowly lifted her near the breakfast table and made her sit on chair.

She looked at the table; ... ''OMG golgaba,samosa,jalibies''. She shouted with joy.

Arnav smiled and enjoyed her childish nature ...''yes everything is your choice''.

After breakfast he offered his hand for dance.

He wrapped his arms around her and started slow dancing.

During the dance, they were continuously looking into each other eyes. Their faces were very close.

He whispered; ... "You're mine khushi, now and forever'' ...

Khuhsi smiled; ...''yes arnvji''...

He rubbed his nose with her nose, hugged her tightly, she hugged him back, he held her more tightly ,he rub his lips on her shoulder .

Kissed her on lips lifted her laid her on bed kissed her on neck and made her his...

Entry # 15:

Love Everyday!

"Arnavji Wake up!! It's getting late"
"Let me sleep for five more minutes, Khushi"
Saying that Arnav again went to his sleepy world, suddenly he felt Khushi's lips on his rough stubble. He was completely enjoying those tickling sensations and then he actually realized what was happening with him. At once, he woke up and pulled her towards him.
"Khushi, I love this new way of waking me up, Do this daily!"

Khushi who already started to blush wasn't able look at his face.

"Arnavji, I have made a special breakfast for you. Go and get ready, meanwhile I will bring it here." When Arnav returned, he was surprised to the table beautifully decorated and the breakfast was his favorite pasta with white sauce.

"WOW!"

"Is anything special today, Khushi?"

"Hmm.. Nothing!, just thought of making your favorite breakfast".

"Well! I'm so happy" and he fed Khushi and they both had their breakfast feeding each other.

"Arnavji, Can you take a day off from your office?" Khushi pleaded with her puppy face.

"No Khushi, I can't. I have an important meeting this afternoon. So I need to go. By the way, why do you want me to take off from work?" he asked her with a naughty face.
"No I thought we can go for any movie today, It's okay, Arnavji. You go to office, Let us go to movie on some other day" she said feeling little sad but smiled.

"Bye Khushi! Have a nice day"

"Same to you Arnavji, One Minute!" and she went near the draw and took some gift pack and gave it to him. Arnav took that in surprise and opened it. It was a watch. He liked it very much. Though he had used many branded watches, this was something so special. His Khushi gave him. He kissed on her cheeks and left to the office replacing the watch on his wrist. Khushi was so happy. Later in the evening, Arnav returned home little early than usual and he quickly went to his room. He was shocked seeing the sight in front of him. Their bedroom and poolside were fully decorated with candles and fairy lights. There was a table set with beautiful red roses and a variety of dishes covered.

"How is the decoration, Arnavji?" Khushi asked hugging him from the back.

"Beautiful!"

Arnav pulled her in front of him. Khushi was wearing a red satin saree looking drop dead gorgeous. He was completely lost seeing her. All that he could manage was "K-kh-hushi". She pecked him on his cheeks excitedly.

"Khushi, why did you make all these decorations?"

That's it. Khushi's eyes brimmed with tears and she ran inside the room. Arnav followed her quickly. Khushi was so angry and she started to tear some newspapers and magazines kept in the side table. Arnav stopped her and took them from her hands.

"Khushi, what are you doing? Why are you tearing these and why are you crying?? What happened? Tell me damnit?" he asked her cupping her cheeks with much worry.

"I hate you, Arnavji".

"What?" he was about to laugh but suppressed not to make her more angry.

"Yes! I hate you because from the past one week there were numerous ads in these magazines and newspapers saying that "SURPRISE YOUR SPOUSE WITH THIS/THAT" and I thought you will remember Valentine's Day and will be happy if I surprise you. But you don't even remember what day is today. You didn't even wish me today!" saying that she wiped her tears. Arnav now clearly understood the reason behind the surprises that he has been experiencing from morning.

"Khushi, stop crying!" Arnav asked her and kissed her on her forehead and went to his side of the wardrobe and took a small box. He came near to Khushi and he himself opened the box and showed to her. It was diamond ring. He pulled out the ring and slipped into her finger and kissed her hand and said "Khushi, let me confess. I bought this ring last year."

"Last year?" she was confused now and listened to him carefully.

"Yes! I still remember, last year at this time I was about to propose you and present this ring, but when I saw that Shyam hugging you in the terrace. I was completely heartbroken. And I believed that Shyam's cooked up story. And at that same night, I decided to marry you forcefully only to destroy your life." He closed his eyes regretting that decision and took a pause and continued "And I don't personally believe in Valentine's Day, Khushi. I don't believe in this one day dedicated to love at all. If we love a person it should done all the 365 days in a year, not just one day. We should love everyday and we should celebrate it every day. And I loved all your surprises you gave me today." he smiled.

Khushi couldn't reply him back. She was getting all the mixed emotions at the same time and she hugged Arnav tightly.

Arnav hugged her back and decided to lighten the atmosphere. "But you said that you hate me, right?" he pouted and made a sad face. Khushi smacked him on his chest and hugged him again.

"Arnavji, Then why did you decide to propose me on Valentine's Day?" she asked him lifting her eyebrows.

"No, It's not because of Valentine's Day, it was Akash and Payal's wedding on that day and it was the last event of the marriage. I thought I'll be missing you since you won't be coming here and moreover I was little scared of NK" he admitted sheepishly. Khushi laughed and looked into his face and said "I love you, Arnavji! very much"

"And I love you too Khushi and I'll be there for you always!" and he kissed her on her lips.

"We are going for a movie tomorrow and I'm taking a day off from my office".

"Love you Arnavji always!"

Entry # 16:

The Healing Promise

Aarav ran to his parent's room as he saw an advertisement on TV.

Arnav and Khushi were at the terrace, it was a Sunday so both were sunbathing. Arnav was reading some business magazine and Khushi was doing some knitting.

Khushi looked up as she saw Aarav running towards her.

"Mom.. Ye Valentine's Day kya hota hai.?"[Mom, what is this Valentine's Day meant?"]

Khushi smiled and raised her eyebrows at Arnav, who looked up suddenly, closing the magazine he was reading.

"Ask your Dad, Aarav, he knows better than me about all this firangi festivals, he studied at Haridwar, I mean Harvard University..you know" Khushi said sarcastically.

"Very funny, its not a firangi festival even Indians do celebrate it, and second Its Harvard University.." Arnav said pinching her nose.

"Ouch, that hurts.." Khushi said rubbing her nose.

"You guys can fight all day, now care to tell me what is it or shall I Google it?" Aarav asked seriously

Arnav and Khushi looked at each other and then started laughing irritating Aarav.

Arnav gestured him to sit beside him. Aarav sat next to Arnav's chair, eager to hear about the festival.

"Umm.. Valentine was a Saint whom was imprisoned for performing weddings for the soldiers who were forbidden to marry in ancient times. During his imprisonment he had healed his jailers daughter and before his execution he had wrote a letter to that girl as" from your valentine". And now people celebrate his birthday as "Lovers Day" in which lovers express their feelings towards one another by gifting roses and greetings."

"That's all?" Aarav asked smiling.

"Yep" Arnav said tousling his hair.

"I'd have gifted Anamika with flowers and greeting if I had school today.." Aarav said in a serious tone, twitching his nose cutely.

Arnav and Khushi gaped at him, their mouths widening.

"Okay, you guys carry on fighting.." He said and left the terrace leaving two confused souls behind.

***

Khushi smiled at Aarav's innocent yet mature rants and then got up sadly, as Aarav left from the terrace. Arnav noticed the change in Khushi's face and he pulled her pallu from behind as she was leaving him alone at the terrace.

"What happened?" He asked sweetly

"I just remembered our first Valentine's Day, together." Khushi said looking away.

"We celebrated last year..? I don't remember.." Arnav said scrunching his eyebrows.

"Yes we did, and it was so grant.." Khushi said laughing evilly

Arnav couldn't remember anything; he shook his head and cupped Khushi's face. And saw her smiling through tears.

Something stirred inside him and his mind flashed back to the 14^th of feb 1 year before.

***

"Arnav ji, where are we going..?" Khushi asked the umpteenth time.

"It's a Surprise, I told you.." Arnav said winking at her.

"But I want to know now, you know I hate surprises.. it kills me from inside.." She said pouting.

"15mins more sweetheart.. we are almost there.." He said speeding up the vehicle.

***

Khushi was feeling very awkward as they walked through darkness. She slid her arm into his holding him tightly. He had asked her to wear RED and let her hair open. She was nervous like hell.

"Arnav ji.. Please tell me, where are we going..?" Khushi asked again

Arnav looked at her from sideways; she was looking irresistibly gorgeous in that red sari with her hair flowing in the air. He thought, his eyes lingering on her petite form.

Arnav kissed her hair, shooing her.

He withdrew his hands from her hold as they reached their destination. Khushi's eyes pricked as the lights brightened one by one.

She twirled around, her eyes widening at the sight in front of her. Arnav smiled at her childish act, his arms crossing over his chest and his face adorning a lopsided smile.

"We are at the farmhouse" Khushi exclaimed her eyes twinkling.

"WILL YOU BE MY VALENTINE, KHUSHI?" Arnav asked bending on his knees, a red rose in his hand extended towards his LADY LOVE.."

Khushi nodded smiling, and taking the rose in her hand.

"I am sorry Khushi.." He said his head lowering.

"For what, Arnav ji.. I loved this, its really beautiful.." She said kissing him on the cheek.

"Sorry for ruining our first ever Valentine's Day, last year the same day, we were in the Mandir, for our 6 month contract marriage and its the same day I thought I'd pour my heart infront of you.. and I lost my temper when I saw you in Shyam's embrace, after that all I did was hurting you and trusting that bas***d Shyam..over you, Over MY LOVE..!

" I AM SORRY KHUSHI, FORGIVE ME.." He said looking down, not able to meet her eyes, which only shown UNCONDITIONAL LOVE FOR HIM AND HIM ONLY.

Khushi smiled through her tears and crushed her body into his pulling him in a swift tug. He hid his face on the crook of her neck, she felt her shoulder wet with his silent tears.

"Arnav ji, you know that I LOVE YOU.. no matter what happened between us in the past, and there is nothing to forgive. Your LOVE has healed all the wounds. She said cupping his face lovingly and pressed her lips onto his trembling ones.

"You should have done this at our house too, why here?" She asked caressing his cheeks.

"I just wanted to remove all those bad memories of this day from our life and replace it with fresh and happy ones.."

"I PROMISE YOU, I WONT HURT YOU AGAIN, IN ANYWAY AND WILL ALWAYS TRUST YOU.." He said determined.

"I LOVE YOU.." He said rubbing his nose on her red ones.

"Your nose is red." He said chuckling

"I know." She said giggling.

"I LOVE YOU TOO.." Before she could complete her words, his lips came crashing onto hers.

And they kissed like eternity. Leaving behind every pain and replacing their lives with LOVE and LOVE only.

Entry # 17:

VALENTINE GIFT

Khushi came back to their room after her kitchen works..She opened the door of their room and saw Arnav halflying on the bed..waiting for her.She smiled and went near him.When he saw his beautiful wife near him, he pulled her to himself..He came on top of her and started showering her face with kisses.Khushi cupped the back of his head gently and smiled..

Arnav(kissing her face)-You know how much I missed you Khushi?Why were you so late?

Khushi-Arnavji,I had to help Di..she was alone downstairs..Nani and Mami had gone for the mehandi function at Kanpur.

Arnav-Hmm..so where is Payal?...I didn't see Payal and Aakash down there for dinner..

Khushi-Jeejaji had taken jiji for a date n dinner..they are not back till now..

Arnav(kissing her neck and collorbone)-Anything special today?

Khushi-Arrey LaadGovernor ji today is 14th Feb...Valentine's Day..

Arnav-Hmm so?

Khushi-Hey Devimaiyyah you gave me such an unromantic husband...who don't know the speciality of Valentine's Day..Arnavji today is the day of lovers..so jiju took jiji out for a date..Oww jiji is so lucky to have such a romantic husband...

Arnav(smirking)-Really?Then what about your husband Khushi?Is he romantic enough?

Khushi-Romantic?!! and my husband no way...That LaadGovernor only knows to shout and yell.

Khushi knew her husband was more romantic than Aakash.But still she liked teasing him very much.

Arnav-Is it?..Then it is the time to show you Mrs Raizada...how romantic your husband is.

With that he captures her lips in a passionate kiss.Khushi was surprised at first..But after seconds she parted her lips for him and started responding to the kiss.His talented hands started undoing the dori of her salwar suit while her hands went below his T-Shirt and started caressing the rippling muscles.Arnav groaned when he felt her fingers drawing patterns on his chest.After kissing like what seemed eternity,he started placing kisses along her jawline followed by her swan like neck.The creamy skin of her neck was only adding fuel to the fire.She moaned softly when he started placing love bites on her neck..Her soft moans were such a turn on for him.He again brushed his lips with her soft ones and moved to her cheeks.After giving enough attention to her cheeks his lips travelled towards her earlobe and he gently bit her earlobe..Khushi clutched the white sheets beneath her,unable to suffer this soft torture further.He freed her hair from the band and it fell over her shoulder covering both of them in their small world.He buried his face in her curls and inhaled the jasmine n orangey fragrance.Without wasting any seconds further,Khushi rolled over and came on top of him..She peppered his face with loud wet kisses,enjoying the feeling of his prickling stubble over her juicy lips..She nipped his earlobe,giving him a taste of his own medicine..He pulled her closer and locked her lips with his,unable to control his urge.They kissed,licked,bit..their tongues danced..She began pulling his hair softly as a support and he clutched her waist.Khushi pulled back from the kiss due to lack of oxygen..She saw his loving eyes watching her lovingly..A small smile adoring his lips..She too smiled seeing him smiling.

Arnav-Do you understand how romantic is your husband now?

Khushi(blushing in a deep shade of red)-Jii(yes).

Arnav gets up and gently pulled her.

Arnav-Come with me..I want to show you something.

He holds her hand and walked to the poolside..She went with him without any further question.He opened the door to the poolside and Khushi's mouth formed a perfect O seeing the scene infront of her..The poolside was decorated by fairy lights and flowers..Rose n gerbera flowers scattered inside the pool water..Candles,illumination lights and flowers..giving poolside a royal look..It was only then a pink coloured board with "HAPPY VALENTINES DAY"in purple letters caught her eyes..She looked Arnav's face and saw him smiling..She threw her hands around him and hugged him tightly.

Arnav(gives her a diamond choker with matching earrings)-This is for you Khushi…

Unable to control anymore she again hugged him and buried her face in his neck..happy tears rolling though her cheeks..

Arnav-No present for me?

Khushi smiled and went to their room.She came with a red file and hands it to Arnav..Arnav openes the file and started reading the documents kept inside..Khushi saw his eyes going wider and teary as he reads the papers..

Arnav(teary)-Is it true Khushi?...You're…pre..pregnant?..Iam going to..to be a..dd..dad..and you mom..We are going to be..pa..parents?

Khushi nodded her head happily..her eyes moist..Now it was his turn to pull her into a hug…He pulled her into a hug and hugged her tightly..It was only then he remembered.

Arnav(concerned)-Did I hurt you Khushi?..Did I hurt our baby?..I mean I hugged you tightly..

Khushi-No Arnavji..

He pulls her and makes her sit on the recliner he also comes and sits beside her..

Arnav-Weren't you feeling well Khushi?..I mean how did you know that you are pregnant?

Khushi-I was feeling very odd Arnavji..i fell to throw up twice..and got a sour feeling when I saw jalebi, smell of coffee..so went for a check up..i didn't tell you as u would make a big deal out of it..Then doctor prescribed for the pregnancy test and it was positive..

Arnav-Thank you Khushi..for giving me such a beautiful valentine's day gift..

Khushi-I should thank you Arnavji..for making me a complete women..loving me unconditionally..and now am so happy..because I have a part of you with me..We can tell family this good news tomorrow..

Arnav nodded and brought his face closer to her belly..The place where their baby is sleeping..He kissed her belly above the salwaar and whispered"I don't know whether I would be a good father..but I will try my best, baby…Love you and your mumma a lot…Daddy is here..waiting for you.."

Khushi placed her hand above his head and whispered"you are the best husband..and iam sure you will be the best father"

Nobody knew how long they sat like that..his head on her lap near her tummy..hugging her waist..listening to each other's heartbeat…Dreaming about their bright future..about their baby..

Entry # 18:

The wind howled as she walked down the dark road. Her pace quickened with each step. She had thought that staying away from him might help her forget the pain he gave her. But it never did. She missed him, every single day. Now that she was back in town, it had gotten worse. Every place she went to reminded her of him, the moments they spent together… and today... today was a special day. Today marked a year of their marriage. The temple loomed in front of her. She knew she would get peace only at the feet of her Devi Maiyya. She closed her eyes and exhaled deeply as she reached the foot of the stairs.

As she climbed up the stairs, memories of her wedding day came flooding back. She remembered his eyes, burning with rage, as he tied the mangalsutra around her neck and adorned her forehead with sindoor.

"Now you are my wife, but only in the eyes of the world, and only for six months. Then I will let you free. But until then you will stay in my house, with me, as my wife."

A tear rolled down her cheek. I hate him. I will always hate him for what he did to me. The forced marriage, the insults and abuse that followed. I will never ever forgive him. She wiped the tears from her cheeks and raised her hand to ring the bell that was hanging from the celing, when she froze.

In front of the idol of Devi Maiyya kneeled a man, his shoulders fallen, his head hanging low, completely dejected. Her forehead crinkled, as she felt sorry for the man. He must have lost someone or something very special. Then her heart recognized something her eyes didn't. Her heartbeats quickened. Her eyes opened wide as she felt the familiar breeze. The man must have felt it too, because his head lifted suddenly and he looked over his shoulder. Their eyes met.

He stood up slowly, fighting the temptation to run over to her and take her in his arms. But he knew she didn't want to see him or talk to him or feel his touch. So he stayed there in front of her, unsure of what to do and what to say.

She thought she knew what pain was, but what she felt now was worse. She felt a sharp pain in her heart seeing him in that state. He had aged since she last saw him. He had grown a beard; his hair was shaggy and his face was creased with wrinkles. He looked thin and frail; he seemed to have lost a lot of weight. Suddenly she didn't care anymore. She knew she was supposed to hate him for what he did, but now nothing else mattered, but him. She burst into tears and ran as fast as she could, towards him. She crashed into him and threw her arms around him. The bells in the temple rang loudly, as the winds struck hard against them.

He staggered back under the impact. He couldn't believe what was happening, but he wasn't going to waste any more time thinking. He put one arm around her waist and he caressed her hair with his other hand. He pressed her supple body against his. He closed his eyes. She was in his arms, finally. After years of inner conflict, today he felt free. He felt relaxed and happy, as he inhaled the fruity scent of her shampoo and felt the warmth of her body against his. A smile appeared on his face. She pulled away and he looked at her, into her tear-filled eyes.

"Khushi", he said softly. She burst into a smile. How she had longed to hear his voice! He continued, "I am sorry .."

She put a finger on his lips and shook her head. "No, Arnavji. Don't." She wiped away the lone tear that threatened to escape his eye. "You were here at Devi Maiyya's feet, inside the same temple where we got married a year ago. You don't need to say anything."

His lips trembled, as he took her face in his hands. "I love you, Khushi." A tear ran down his cheek and he embraced her. He pressed her body against him and hugged her tightly. He leaned back, lifting her feet off the floor. She smiled, threw her hands around him and whispered in his ear. "I love you too."

Arnav watched Khushi pray, her hands together in prayer, her head bowed in front of the idol. She opened her eyes and looked at him. "What? Shall we go?"

He smirked. "What gift do you want, Khushi?"

"Gift?"

"Today is Valentine's day, the day lovers exchange gifts to express their love."

Khushi giggled. "Why do you need a special day for that?"

Arnav shrugged his shoulders.

She put her hands around his arm and leaned her head against his shoulder. "I have everything I need right here."

"And you will have me by your side forever." He said, placing a kiss on her forehead.

"Thank you for what you did for Babuji." As they watched Shashi walk without support earlier that day, Garima had broken down and confessed to Khushi that it was Arnav who had arranged for the best doctors to treat Shashi; he had asked Garima not to tell Khushi about it.

"You should know it was all for you." Arnav said, caressing her cheek with his thumb.

Khushi raised her eyebrows as he took her hand and got down on one knee. He looked at the idol and smiled, "Shall I?" The wind struck the bell above them.

Arnav turned to her and asked, "Khushi, will you marry me? This time in the presence of our families, with their blessings." She burst into a smile, nodded, got down on her knees and threw her arms around him. He held her tightly and smiled. The wind howled around them.

Entry # 19:

Khushi's twinkling eyes traced over Arnav's sleeping face with silent adoration. He looked childlike as he lay spread-eagled beside her: his wavy hair tousled this way and that, his mouth half-open, his eyes sealed shut. But her husband was anything but innocent. Even now in the deep fathoms of sleep, his hand rested possessively on her stomach, keeping her pressed to him.

"I love you, Arnavji," whispered Khushi, dropping a feather-light kiss on his darkly stubbled chin. He instinctively edged closer to her, but remained sleeping.

A wave of love rushed through Khushi. To think that this was the same man she'd once despised so vehemently. But no matter how much she'd resisted, she'd been pulled to him. They belonged together; it was as simple as that. And today was their first Valentine's Day.

A smile spread across Khushi's face as she recalled the TV report she'd seen yesterday. The reporter had thoroughly explained the annual holiday, wishing the viewers "A wonderful Valentine's Day with your one true love!"

But her one true love looked like he had no plans of waking up let alone celebrating, mused Khushi. Arnav Singh Raizada, you're lucky I love you so much..

A familiar noise buzzed just then. Khushi immediately closed her eyes, feigning sleep.

Arnav groaned as he blinked awake, turning off the alarm with half-closed eyes. He immediately fell back into his spot, his arm curling around his wife. He gave himself five minutes more of sheer bliss before rising. A day of back-to-back meetings awaited him.

"Morning, Beautiful," he murmured to Khushi. "I have an early meeting so I get the bathroom first today." Before she could say a word, he'd already jumped out of the bed.

Khushi frowned as she sat up, tucking the blanket under her arms. "Happy Valentine's Day to you too, Arnavji," she grumbled under her breath.

----------------------------------------------------------

Red roses sat blooming on the breakfast table as Khushi and Arnav arrived.

"Wow," exclaimed NK, fingering a petal. "Who brought the flowers?" He looked at Arnav with raised eyebrows. "Nanav? It was you, right?"

Khushi's eyes shone as she turned toward her husband. But he was busy drinking coffee, barely glancing at the roses. "No, NK."

Khushi and NK exchanged puzzled frowns.

"It was Akash," whispered Payal, staring at her husband with a warm blush.

He smiled at her. "Happy Valentine's Day, Payal."

"VALENTINE'S DAY!" shouted NK, his eyes rounding. "I can't believe I forgot! It's my favorite holiday with all the lovey dovey couples getting chocolates, roses, and gifts. Good going, Akash."

Khushi kicked NK under the table, motioning her head toward her husband. He nodded conspiratorially. Clearing his throat, he asked, "And you, Nanav? What are your plans with your valentine?"

Arnav narrowed his eyes at his cousin. "I don't believe in that nonsense."

Khushi's heart dropped. Nonsense? NK started to argue so she kicked him under the table once more, shaking her head.

It was hopeless. The Laad Governor would never change. She stabbed into her breakfast, watching with a frown as Arnav practically wolfed down his. It seemed it was time for a new plan..

----------------------------------------------------------

Arnav glanced at his watch as he navigated through the morning traffic. His first meeting would start in just 15 minutes.

A car with hearts drawn on its windows cut him off. Arnav scowled, pounding on the horn.

"Hai Devi Maiyya, why is it so loud?"

Arnav froze as that familiar voice hit his ears. He glanced at the rearview mirror and then turned to confirm it. But it was true: his wife sat in the trunk, waving at him.

"Morning, Arnavji--again!"

The SUV swerved to a stop along the roadside. Within seconds, Arnav was outside, pulling open the trunk door. His wife winked at him. He shook his head. "Khushi, what are you doing here? I have an important meeting."

"I hid in the trunk," she admitted. "You know, like Nainital.."

He frowned, checking his watch again. "Khushi, I don't have time for this. Please, understand."

Her face fell. Tears pooled in her eyes. "But, Arnavji, it's Valentine's Day! And everyone who loves someone is celebrating except for us. Why, Arnavji? Don't you love me anymore?"

"Khush--"

But she was already hurrying out, ready to sprint away. He grabbed her wrist, swinging her around. Her eyes narrowed. "Let me go!"

"Never!" vowed Arnav with a smirk. And then in a flash, he picked her up in his arms, placing her carefully in the passenger seat.

As she opened her mouth to shout, he dialed a number on his phone.

"Yeah, Aman.. Cancel my meetings. I'm spending the day with my wife." The sudden glow on his Khushi's face was worth all the profit in the world, he decided, reaching for her hand.

----------------------------------------------------------

Khushi's eyebrows shot up as they entered the farmhouse.

"Arnavji, what are we--" A warm gel oozed down the side of her face. "What the--"

Arnav laughed. The husky sound sent heat coursing through her. "Valentine's Day, right? So let's start with some chocolate, Khushi." He smeared some chocolate syrup across her other cheek and then her lips.

Khushi's breath hitched as he kissed off the sweetness. She was trembling as he picked her up in his arms.

"Time for roses.."

"But, Arnavji.. I need to clean up."

"I know, love," he said, taking her into the bathroom.

The jacuzzi was brimming with rose petals. Khushi's eyes widened as her husband undressed her. Her hands tugged off his clothes, pulling him into the tub as well. Eager lips and hands met.

The water was freezing by the time they climbed out. Khushi hugged her husband close. "Arnavji.. this was the best Valentine's Day!"

"It's not over yet.. Let's stay this weekend here," he mumbled, drying her hair. "Khushi, don't ever doubt my love. I don't need Valentine's Day to love you. A single day isn't enough for us. I need you forever."

Khushi beamed. "I love you, my Laad Governor.."

Entry # 20:

Special day at a special place!!

Khushi's eyes sparkled with excitement as NK explained that today is valentine's day and how its special for people in love."Khushiji am taking my girlfriend for a movie and a candle lit romantic dinner tonight " NK said grinning happily.

"Wow Nanehji that's an awesome plan" Khushi smiled."Thanks Khushiji waise what are your plans?" He asked looking at her eagerly.

Before she could answer, "Khushiii" Arnav voice boomed from their room which is right next to NK's.Khushi smiled at NK apologetically "Nanehji I'l just come "

Arnav was buttoning up his coat when Khushi strolled in smiling.Her smile wavered, when she found him all dressed for work.She thought Arnav will take her out somewhere and celebrate the special day together.

"Khushi I have something for you " Arnav smiled and handed over a gift wrapped box.

Khushi's face lit up with a big smile "Arnavji whats this?" she eagerly unwrapped it to reveal a beautiful red saree embroidered with white stones.

She gasped in surprise "Wow Arnavji its beautiful"she hugged him happily.

After a minute he pulled away and cupped her cheek lovingly "You like it? "

Khushi nodded her head happily "I love it! I thought you had forgotten about valentines day but this is a beautiful surprise Arnavji" she said beaming at him.

"What the !! Valentines day?? " he looked at her quizzically.Khushi frowned "Ya you are gifting me this for valentines day right? " she asked suddenly feeling unsure.

Arnav rolled his eyes "Khushi you know I don't believe in all these things "

"Then why did you gift me this saree today? " she asked pouting.

"Khushi, my client and his wife are throwing a party at their farmhouse in Agra today and we both are leaving in a while. And you know Arnav Singh Raizada dont need any special day or reason to gift his wife" he declared with an arrogant smirk.

she rolled her eyes and suddenly sobered"Party? Arnavji what will I do at your clients party? I don't know anyone there.Besides you will be discussing business"

"Khushi its not an official party and am there with you. Now go and change into this saree,we need to leave now "

Knowing she will only waste her breath by arguing with him, She quickly changed into the saree and they left Shantivan 20 minutes later.

Khushi was surprised when they stopped at the airport."Arnavji, We are going by plane? I thought we are going by car " Arnav smirked "Oh I forgot to tell you that we are going by my helicopter" when she gasped in shock,he bent and captured her open mouth with his."you look stunning in this saree " he whispered across her lips making her blush.

*********

An hour later,Khushi let out a surprised gasp when they stepped out of the helicopter and she realized where they were." Arnavji you said we are going to Agra? "she asked confused.

"Happy Valentines day Khushi " he said smirking and kissed her forehead lovingly.

As realization dawned,she threw her arms around him in a bone crushing hug.They then stepped inside the place together where everything began a year ago.

Khushi stopped at the spot which held a special memory in her heart.Arnav hugged her slender waist from behind and nuzzled her neck "Khushi I can never forget the day we met,when you fell right across my arms " Khushi smiled and both of them travelled down the memory lane when they met for the first time at the very same spot they are now standing.

He then lifted her up in his arms and took her inside a room which was decorated full of Red roses and fairy lights.Khushi's eyes widened in surprise and her face broke into a wide grin as she took in the dcor.

When she was busy admiring the dcor,Aranav came before her and handed her a huge bouquet of beautiful red roses.Khushi smiled widened as she cuddled the roses close to her chest and inhaling the sweet fragrance."Arnavji this is so beautiful thank you ! " She stood on her tiptoes and kissed him gently on his lips and blushed.

He smiled and cupped her cheeks "Khushi you don't have to thank me " he said and kissed her softly.What started as a quick kiss turned out to be something more as he gentle nipped and licked her luscious lips and sucking the bottom lips between his.He outlined her lips with his tongue sensuously causing her to squirm in his arms and moan in pleasure.

When the kiss ended, both breathed heavily as if they ran a marathon.Arnav touched her forhead with his and tried to control his breathing.He moved her wayward hair away from her face and cupped her cheek "Khushi, you remember our first meeting right? " he asked her looking into her eyes filled with love for him.

She smiled and cupped his cheek the same way he did hers "How can I forget Arnavji? That day changed my whole life.If we dint meet last year I don't know how my life would have been without you "

Arnav nodded and chuckled "ya but our first meet was a total disaster and we hated each other" he sobered "But Khushi if we dint meet the way we did,I don't think we will be here now together.That day I made a huge mistake and hurted you.I brought you here today to replace all those hurtful memories with happy ones.I cant think of a better place to celebrate our first valentines day Khushi " he said smiling into her eyes which were tear filled at his words.

Khushi smiled and hugged him "You are right Arnavji.This Sheesh Mahal is our very own Taj Mahal which holds a special place in our hearts" She said grinning and Arnav laughed at her comparison.Bending his head to hers he whispered "I love you Khushi, Happy Valentines Day once again " and sealed her lips with his.

Entry # 21:

Cupid's Arrow

"He was my boyfriend", she said painfully. Arnav was shocked and disgusted to know this. "We were in the same college, one day he proposed me and without thinking twice I said Yes but now I realize that it wasn't love. He wanted my body" tears rolled down her eyes. "If that b*s*a*d would have been in his senses I would have bashed him to pulp" he said raging. "WHY", she asked him looking in his eyes. "Bcoz' Bcoz I felt a connection with you Khushi when I saw you for the first time in the wedding". Arnav lowered his eyes with sudden confession, feeling embarrassed. Not that he had a lack of girls in his life but he never found his Ms. Perfect.

(Flashback)

Arnav Singh Raizada needed no introduction, he was one of the most eligible bachelors of the country. But he preferred maintaining a low profile at his best friends wedding. Luckily, no one recognized him and he was enjoying to his fullest until he went to pick something form his SUV. He saw a guy manhandling a girl. he couldn't see the girl as the back of the guy was towards him. he could only hear the girl pleading. Reflexively, he went to the guy, held him from his back collar and punched him hard. The guy laid on the floor unconscious. He then saw the girl, she was the same angel he met at the wedding. She was dressed in a baby pink colour net saree which complimented her skin tone beautifully. The moment he saw her accompanying the bride he lost his heart to her. There was a charisma on her face which drew his heart towards him. Girls die for his attention but this girl did it effortlessly.

After the Jaimala he asked his friend, the groom, to introduce the girl to him and he did that. "Hey Khushi, meet my best friend Arnav and Arnav she is preeto's childhood friend Khushi" "Hi", "Hi, nice to meet you", said Khushi chirpily. Arnav was about to initiate a conversation but her phone rang and she excused herself. Arnav tried locating her but in the wedding chaos all his efforts went into vain. And then he met her at the parking lot.

"Who was that jerk? Are you Ok?"He asked concernly. "I'm fine", she managed to say between her tears. "Lets go inside its too late", he said but seeing her condition it didn't seem to be a good idea. "NO, Please leave me alone for sometime", she said controlling her tears. "Can I drop you home, its 1 am and I can't leave you here." "I'm not in a state to go anywhere right now. Just go" she shouted. Arnav fisted in anger, no one has ever dared to talk to him like that. "I'm not leaving you alone at this hour don't you understand dammit." Khushi looked in his eyes, anger prevailing in them. "I didn't wanted to shout like that but if you don't mind can I take you somewhere nearby?" She looked at him questionably but then he said, "Don't worry its a nearby public place where I go whenever I'm going through a turmoil."

She nodded in response and they both went in his SUV. He stopped his car at Marine Drive. "WOW!!!" she exclaimed, "I always wanted to come here at night but Buaji never allowed me." They got off from the car and a cool breeze hit her face. After straightening her saree she lifted her face and she saw his back. He was standing on a bench with his hands wide open. He had a well toned body and the breadth of his shoulders send goosebumps on her skin. He was an attractive man, all girls were drooling over him in the wedding. Somewhere deep inside Khushi was one of them too. She had a strange urge to go and hug him from behind but then she dismissing her wild thoughts she went and stood by him. He looked at her and said "SHOUT", she looked puzzled and he said "I do that whenever I'm upset, try you'll feel better." Obeying him she shouted her lungs out on empty sea. He got her water from his car and she broke down on the bench crying. "Don't keep anything inside you, it'll only hurt you. Here have this." She drank water and surprisingly she felt relieved and then she started narrating her story.

(Present Scenario)

"Hey, that Ok, you don't need to be embarrassed" she said bringing him to his senses. "I didn't realize what was I saying, I'm Sorry." "Don't be you only told me not to keep anything inside." she smiled at him. "Do you wanna have something?" he asked diverting the topic. "Yes, I'm starving but I don't think at this hour I'll find something to eat." "Don't worry Ma'am , I'm at you service" Arnav said "Lets go." They went to Sukh Sagar, a food corner nearby and Khushi attacked the food like maniacs. Thanks to Google otherwise he would have missed this scene, Arnav thought smiling at Khushi.

After she was done they went for a drive and khushi made Arnav open his car's sunroof. She flt like a free bird. It was 4 am and Khushi's eyes started drooping. 'Khushi, you are sleepy, shall I drop you home?" Mmm she mumbled. She directed him sleepingly and he haulted his car outside her home. "Get up sleepyhead, your home is here." She woke up rubbing her eyes. "Thankyou Arnav for everything." He smiled and she continued, "Deep inside even I felt a connection with you." he was shocked to hear this saying this she tried getting off from his car but he held her wrist. He gave her his number, "Call me whenever you like." She smiled and ran away shyly. Finally both of them got struck by Cupid's Arrow on Valentines morning.

Entry # 22:

It was Valentine's day celebration in our college. Everybody were discussing about their Valentine. La, as usual , was talking about NK. How he celebrated the whole Valentine week with her and all.

"Khushi, who do you think Arnav Singh Raizada is going to propose?", La asked me.

Arnav. Full name Arnav Singh Raizada. He was most wanted guy in our college, preceded by NK. Most charming, dashing , intelligent..all in all, he had everything that every girl wish to see in a guy...including me. But, he never talked to any girl. It had been rare case that he had ever talked to a girl...and luckily...in every rare case, the girl was same...that's me. I was good in accounts and he was second to me. So, every times doubts arose before going to the teacher, he came to me.

I blushed thinking of the last time he came to me and we were alone in class...discussing about something, which I always forget, whenever his face flashes before me. We were sitting really close to each other. If I tried to drift at a side, he would push himself more into me! His fragrance is still forgettable to me! As I was thinking about that time, La poked me again! Uh! My dream breaker!

"Khushi!! I am asking you something!!", La rebuked.

"Erm..Arnav...How do I know?", I said in 'who cares' tone.

''I think he's going to propose Sheetal", La said.

Sheetal. Full name Sheetal Kapoor. She was thought to be the most beautiful girl in our college. Beautiful...Uh! Who wouldn't look beautiful under tons n tons of make-up. Arnav and Sheetal were best basketball players, hence, she was the only girl who was close to him..after me...to add on. But, that doesn't mean, that he's going to propose her. Well...um...does it really mean a thing?

I swayed this thought off my mind. So, what if they were close. He was close to me also...let it be only for studies! But, I tell you, he had shared some...ok...few of his secrets with me. Like, how much he hate Mrs. Kate ( our accounts teacher ) , what he feels about Aishwarya R. Bachchan...and many more.

"Yeah! These are also some kind of secrets!", he told me the other day.

While La was blabbering about NK and I was lost in his thoughts...suddenly, I hit upon a hard body. It held my arms and saved me from falling.

"You okay?", asked my survivor.

As I looked upon him, I blushed really hard. I can feel my face turn tomato red. Oh! So, my survivor was Arnav!

"You okay?", He aksed me again.

Crashing down to my original world I stammered," Yes...um yes! Thanks!"I said, while still leaning over his hands. I was staring at his chocolaty brown eyes when he signalled through his eyes about our awkward position. First I didn't realise what he was saying...then, I suddenly realised and balanced myself back on my feet. He gave his sexy loopside smirk.

"No problem! Well...um..Hap...ha..Happy Val...", he was about to say something when that witch Sheetal called him. I was waiting to hear what he is saying but she came and dragged my Arnie. I hit my feet hard on ground and made my way to my home...leaving La totally confused about my behaviour.

It was 8pm when Valentine party organised by our college began. I admit, I behaved crazily this morning! Don't know, what impression I might have left on Arnav. I entered the hall and began looking for him. Finally, I found him. But..with a GIRL! And that also, SHEETAL! He was almost leaning over her. I didn't understand what he was doing. Then, suddenly, came a shock of my life. He sat down on his knees and I could understand..that he was proposing her..though, I didn't hear what he said, as music was too loud! So, he was not actually leaning over her...but was kissing on her cheeks!

A lone drop of tear left my eyes. Maybe I was crazy who all the time was thinking that he likes me or going to propose me. Maybe I was crazy to think that I was close to Arnav...'coz he shared with me his stupid views about Mrs. Bachchan. Maybe I was crazy to think that Sheetal was not beautiful than me.

My heart wanted to cry hard..but it can't happen in front of whole crowd. I wiped my tears and was about to leave when lights were switched off.

"What the...", I exclaimed. Today was really a bad day. Suddenly a spot light was projected on a being. As I was crying, everything looked blurred to me. As I cleared my eyes, I found him...Arnav. He was looking at me, giving his trademark smirk. I pouted at him and stood with my hands fold, close to my chest.

He then, started walking towards me. Spotlight following him like a his own shadow. As he came nearer and nearer to me I felt my anger vanishing with his each step.

To avoid my blush to be seen again. I turned to go when someone held my hand. I was sure it was him. Slowly, I turned towards him and looked into his eyes. He left my hands and cupped my face. I felt my heart racing at an indefinable pace. In no time, my lips were sharing a passionate kiss with His'. My hands unconsciously made it way to his chest and I grabbed his white shirt in my small fist. Our kiss continued for some more minutes, then he broke it for some air. I had tears in my eyes...probably of joy. He rested his forehead on mine...still cupping my face..his nose turned red.

He whispered," Khushi, I love you! I loved u since the day I met you! I am crazy about you since the day, I saw that lovely expression of yours while eating a mere paani puri on street. I want you since the day, we sat alone in class and I kept on snuggling into you. I wanted to kiss you, love you and cuddle with you ever since the very first day of our college. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH DAMMIT!"

I had tears in my eyes. Without wasting a second i passionately kissed him again. Not even letting his mind to register things...turning his nose red again His kiss was telling about his inner pleasure...his inner passion towards me. Suddenly, I remembered something n broke the kiss.

"what u were doing in that corner with sheetal.", i asked in possessively.

He chuckled n replied, " Even Arnav S. raizada needs rehearsals baby!"

"I am urs n u r mine, forever!", he said pulled me for a hug!

Entry # 23:

Just To Be With You

Arnav mentally cursed himself and his oh-so-brilliant brain for coming up with the marvelous idea of having every single function, from the shagun to the shaadi, at home as he muscled his way through the crowd mobbing his front yard.


He hadn't taken two steps past the threshold when the very reason for having all the ceremonies at home crashed right into his chest, dropping a thal full of flowers with a sharp clang.


Khushi audibly gasped as the clang echoed around the living room before rushing to pick it up, but a painful tug at her ear restricted her.


As her mind processed the fact that her earring had latched itself onto someone's shirt, her eyes shot up only to be meet by the smoldering chocolate pair she had been avoiding these last few days.


This day was no different than the rest when Khushi lost herself in Arnav's eyes until his rough hand brushed against her cheek as he smoothly yet unhurriedly unhinged her from himself.


In simultaneous actions, Arnav dropped his hand and Khushi took a few distancing steps away from him. They stood there for a moment, Arnav staring at her intently while Khushi looked anywhere but him.


Frustrated with her silence, Arnav took a step forward to talk to her, but Khushi suddenly looked up at him before swiftly turning and running away towards the kitchen.


After a minute Arnav sighed, finally tearing his eyes away from the kitchen door where Khushi's chaniya choli clad figure had disappeared, and headed up the stairs feelings as if he had just swallow a bitter pill.

But he was also ASR and there was no way he was going to let his Khushi be upset with him, especially today.

****

A few hours later, all the guests had taken their seats under the huge, elegant tent set up in the Raizada's front yard as the pandit asked for the groom and bride to be brought down by their respective siblings as per their wishes.

So with one final apprehensive glance at himself in the mirror Arnav grabbed a small red box and proceeded to Akash's room to escort him down first.
Akash stepped out of his room, dressed in a rich brown coat-styled sherwani, only to smile as he took in Arnav's kurta-pajama robed form, knowing fully well whom he was trying to please on this auspicious day.

Five minutes later, Akash and Arnav were standing at the mandap waiting for their respective partners.

Soon enough, Khushi delicately led a red brocade wedding joda adorned Payal to her place next to Akash.

Arnav and Khushi moved away to stand in the crowd as the pandit began the ceremony.

But instead taking their seats, Arnav grabbed Khushi by the wrist and strode out of the tent towards his poolside.

Khushi, not wanting to create a scene, had kept quiet until they had exited the tent before pushing and pulling with all her might.

As soon as they entered the poolside, Arnav whirled Khushi around so she now stood in front of him.

For the second time that day, Khushi didn't let him speak, but instead of running she chose to shout at him. "What's your problem!? Why have you brought me here? During my sister's wedding!"
"You left me no other option! You've been avoiding me for the past week before, during, and after every function!" Arnav shouted right back. "f**k, I even had it all organized at home because I knew you would take part in every little task, but that was a wasted effort!"

Khushi paused, surprised at his confession, but she soon remembered her anger and screamed right back, emphasizing each sentence with a shove. "You did this! You did that!... But what about me!?"
"What about you, Khushi?!" Arnav roared in exasperation. "I've been trying to figure out what the hell I've done to make you so upset, but I've got nothing!"

"WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!" Khushi questioned with such fury that even shocked Arnav.

"I'll tell you! Two weeks ago, I told you about Amma showing me photographs of prospective husbands, thinking you'd do something! But no, instead you hopped on the first flight to God knows where, disappearing for a week. And then you expect everything to be just peachy between us when you return with no explanation!" Khushi stopped and took a deep breath before looking at him wistfully. "Do my feelings not matter?... Do I not matter to you?"

Arnav didn't know what came over him in that moment as Khushi's words registered in his mind, but he stalked forward, grabbing her roughly by the arms and growled, "Never say that again! Every little damn thing about you matters, right down to the last hair on your head!

The sudden flash of fear in her eyes led Arnav to drown a in pool of self-loathing. Silently, he led her to the bench nearest to them. After pushing her down on the seat, he placed himself before her on his knees.
Arnav stared at Khushi keenly for a moment before straightening himself and closing his eyes as he softly said, "Khushi, you know by now that I'll never be the kind of guy who thinks of the perfect thing to say or the big romantic gesture that sweeps you off your feet..."

Khushi sat frozen, staring at Arnav's bowed head with wide eyes and when he hesitated she cautiously nudged him to go on.

Arnav reached back and pulled out that small red box, placing it in Khushi's hand, open, and continued, "But I can promise to by the guy who'd do anything for you, who loves to make you happy, who feels so lucky... just to be with you."

As Arnav finished he removed the delicate silver ring, a blood-red ruby set in the center and the band lined with tiny diamonds, and carefully slide it onto the finger that had a nerve connecting to the heart.

All the while, Khushi could do nothing, but stare on, completely and utterly in awe as her heart swelled with the love she felt.

And the next thing they both remembered was the sound of fireworks, whether they came from the wedding celebrations outside or from inside their minds as their lips met with such love and passion neither knew nor cared.

Entry # 24:

Its just about you and me..

The sunlight made her eyes shrink as she gently opened them getting used to the bright light. She looked beside her to see him sleeping peacefully. It had been 2 years since their marriage, still his one touch sent shivers down her spine. She lay on her chest staring at his innocent face.

"I wish I could stay like this forever looking at you",she whispered.

Maybe she said it too loud. She could see his lips slightly curve into a meek smile as he gently opened his eyes.

She blushed.

"Khushi... Every girl wants to stare at me forever. You are lucky that you are the one whose wish is granted",he said with a wink, pulling her towards him.

"O Really?",she asked, gently pushing him away.

It made Arnav pull her even more close to him.

"Khushi..",he said staring right into her eyes.

"Hmm?"

"I wish I could stay like this together, with you in my arms, caressing you, just stay there beside you",he said.

Khushi wiped the tear from the corner of his eyes. Arnav smiled at her.

"You know what it is today?",he asked Khushi, caressing her cheek.

"14th feb?",she said innocently.

"Its Valentine's Day Khushi!",Arnav said.

"What is that??",Khushi asked him, giving a confused look.

Arnav wanted to bang his head right away, he did too, mentally.

"God! Khushi! Just think it is a day for lovers, for us. Just you and me",he said.

Khushi nodded, understanding what he was saying.

"I have a very important meeting today but I'll try to wrap it up as soon as possible. you just be ready.",he said.

Arnav leaned towards her and placed a gentle kiss on her cheek.

"Oh! that means you are going to spend your Valentine's Day with Aman first!",she chuckled, pushing him away.

"SHUT UP! Otherwise the next kiss won't be on the cheek!",he said, sternly.

Khushi blushed and pushed him away.

"Go brush your teeth first. You're smelling so bad!",she said, giggling.

Arnav gave her a 'What the' look.

"Ya right! As if you're mouth is smelling like roses",he retorted.

"Hawww!",Khushi pouted, hitting him with a pillow, "Now Gooo l!!".

~~~~~~

The clock struck 7pm as Khushi fumed. She didn't know what to do. Arnav had yet not returned. He was not even responding to her calls and messages. No one was in the house even, apart from the servants. Akash had gone out with Payal and Anjali had gone out with her fiance to celebrate valentine's day.

"Laad governor!Huh!",she muttered as she sat down on the sofa.

Just then her mobile beeped. She had received a message... from...

"Arnav."

She read out the text aloud.

" Go to the terrace.

~Laad governor"

"Terrace? Now what is there in the terrace!",she exclaimed as she kept her mobile aside and walked upstairs.

She opened the door to the terrace and was greeted with a bright light which almost blinded her. It took her a few seconds to register herself as she looked around. The whole terrace was decorated with lights.. No not lights.. There were Diyas. There was a huge curtain behind her which had a picture of her and Arnav. It was not a normal picture. It was their first dance together, at payal and Akash's sangeet. She felt nostalgic as she remembered the golden days. Now she knew why the diyas were there. It reminded her of her first Diwali in this house. She closed her eyes and sighed feeling their almost kiss that day.

"Khushi...",she turned around as she heard his voice.

Arnav came out from his hiding. He looked simple yet handsome in a plain white shirt. She smiled at him.

Arnav, on the other hand was totally zapped by her beauty. She was looking gorgeous in a crimson saree he had gifted her on their anniversary. He loved it when she opened her hair, like she did today, which always drove him crazy. He walked towards her and she, towards him as they stopped in front of each other.

All the moments they spent together were flashing in front of them, their realization, their fights, their moments of love. Arnav gently linked his fingers with hers. He didn't fail to notice her wearing the bangles he had given her. That was his first gift to her, to any girl infact! He smiled on remembering how Khushi wanted to know why he brought the bangles for her. But how was he supposed to answer her when he himself didn't know then.

But he knew now. . .

"I love you Khushi. I have always loved you",he whispered.

He closed the distance between them taking a step towards her. Their faces were inches apart from each other.

"I loved you when I shouted at you. I loved you when I fought with you. I loved you when I hated you", he continued.

Khushi could see a tear in the corner of his eye. She wiped it with her fingers. Arnav took her hands and kissed them.

"I love you like crazy",he said, as he cupped her face.

"I love you too Arnav",she said, pulling his face towards her, their noses touching.

Arnav moved his hands towards her bare waist as she shuddered with his touch on her skin. Caressing her subtle cheek, he lifted her chin.She could feel the warmth of his breath brushing her lips. She stared back into his dark eyes, parting her lips slightly and leaned towards him. He placed a gentle kiss on her lips. Her grip on his shirt tightened. The kiss grew more and more deeper as they were filled with an intoxicating feeling of infinite passion. . . Their only wish was... Time would become still then and there.

Their love was eternal. He knew she loved her more than his life. She knew he loved her more than anything else. Their Valentine's day would never be for the 'lovers'.

Their Valentine's Day meant Just Arnav and Khushi. . . and their eternal love for each other...