Completed SS: One Fine Day (Reposted)

A/N: I already had this story up through my old ID (Raisin) and
since it has been suspended as I requested, I would like to repost it so that
it would be on the forum always as I wrote it with so much love for the couple.

This is SS is very close to my heart as it earned me readers
and friends who gave me love and care in return. Every one of them means a lot to
me and this work of mine goes for them.

Synopsis:

What if the person, for whom we spared a moment for, turns out to be someone we must not reach out to? With erupting love and with the person in hand's reach distance, its very difficult to hold all feelings at a place. How will they manage? How will they let the emotions out? How will they win each other? It all begins, 'one fine day'...

Chapter-1

Khushi rushed out of her house and hurried towards the bus stop to catch her bus on time. She was already late due to the fault in her alarm and she had to skip her breakfast. There is no way she could miss her class because there is a new lecture coming to their class today and she wants to check if he is about to their expectation.

The previous lecturer they had was a strict person who was about 50 years of age with furrowed eyebrows that never relaxes itself a moment. He'd be scurrying them every time into classes and assignments that would just squeeze the energy out of them. They had had enough from him and when the news of his voluntary retirement reached the students, Khushi was the one to be more delighted.

Now she had prayed to her God to bless her and her friends with a nice guy who could give breaks whenever they demanded and who can adjust with the assignments that were filled with mistakes. She wanted someone who could make her classes interesting and entertaining and slightly and secretly she also wished that he was good looking so the classes won't be boring.

The climate was cloudy and chill breezes caressed her as she strode towards her bus stop that is around the corner of her house. She checked herself one time if she had dressed properly as she didn't mind to wear a proper dress as she was in haste. Once satisfied, she resumed to walk.

Her thoughts drifted to her new lecturer again as she wondered how he is going to be. Her stomach knotted up when she thought what if the guy was worse than his previous lecturer. Somehow the news regarding gender of the person came to them when they were in the lunch break one day and that is when Khushi and her friends rambled how they want him to be.

Some girls even wished something naughty that made everyone giggle and chuckle. She shook her head as she was tired of the topic and she realised she could not take any more mental ruffling at the morning itself. There's a lot of time left back for a day to be completed and she needed energy and stamina to go through it.

By the time she reached the bus stop, it began to drizzle and she found the bus stop unusually empty. She looked around to find the street isolated and quite dark to be called a morning. She hugged herself to protect herself from the cold wind and waited for her bus to come. She checked her watch and was satisfied with the time which was her usual time of boarding.

She rubbed her arms and looked around as she was bored and found someone running towards the bus stop, towards her with a folder held above. She found the figure pulling and attracting as she continued to watch the direction.

By every moving micro second she found the person appearing clearly from being a blur and when it neared, she realized it's a handsome guy she has not seen anywhere before. He was wearing formals as if he's a corporate and rushed towards to her to escape from being drenched by the pouring sky.

He reached the bus stop and stood by her side but Khushi didn't avert her eyes from him throughout as she was too engrossed in mugging up his appearance. He ruffled his hair to avoid it from being plastered to his scalp which just made him more appealing.

He sensed the pair of eyes that watched him intently and in a reflex he met her gaze.

Arnav ran towards the bus stop from his new college's accommodation to attend his first day of work as a lecturer. The climate was cool and chilly much to his surprise. It was his favourite climate and the signs of the day showed him the day is going to be great.

Apart from the nervousness, he was excited and happy to join this college as a lecturer as it was him dream to be a teacher one day. He had worked hard towards it and today, he had achieved it. But he believed that he had not achieved yet. Yes, his achievement depended on how much his students are going to like him.

He was a relaxed person with a rarely tensing mind which left his character more impressive. He would take care of anything and he had that courage to face things which resulted in him being a patient guy.

When he walked towards the bus stop it began drizzling and he had no choice but to run. He lifted his material folder above his head to protect himself from becoming wet. He wanted things to be perfect at the first day of his job.

He ran towards the direction of the bus to find the whole avenue empty but a lone petite girl standing in the bus stop hugging herself. Being in his situation he could not pay more attention to her as he hurried down the lane to board the bus on time.

He jogged over the single stair and stood beside her. Taking a look around his surroundings he ran his hand into his scalp to ruffle his hair. He found a strong urge to turn to her side and when he did, he met her gaze.

Khushi and Arnav met each other's eyes. It was awkward and strange but at the same time it was comfortable. He found the gaze warm and beautiful that wove a mysterious web around him but to her it was cosy and secure.

Khushi knew it was wrong and she must avert immediately but his strong orbs held her gaze and she found the willing to learn everything about him. She wanted to know what he does, what his interests are, who are his friends, anything and everything. About him.

Arnav at the same time was confused but excited. He knew that the gaze was something special that differentiated it from other glances he had taken so far. It had some magic into it and he felt that it should continue. He doesn't know her but the signs were good. The signs happened to him since the morning were good. This glance is so good that he could not stop wondering whether the signs were for this or this is itself a sign for something more.

The exchange was a matter of few seconds but for both it felt like an eternity. They both lived the moment in full concentration that made them pay more attention to every minute detail they shared. They experienced bliss in that brief moment and their trance broke when the bus honked.

They forgot where they stood, what they were doing and what they were waiting for. When the bus honked again, they hurriedly climbed into it forgetting to even check if they are boarding the right bus.

Khushi swiftly moved to a seat and got herself seated while Arnav stood behind with no space left to sit. Each of them was avoiding the other's gaze out of embarrassment and awkwardness.

But when the person who was sitting with Khushi got down in the next stopping, Arnav quickly sat beside her. She was shocked at the sudden movement and stuck to the window not wanting to have a physical contact. Her heart beat louder and faster as she tightly clung to the window. She didn't turn her face over him until she got down and no move of Khushi went unnoticed.

Khushi jumped out of the bus and ran towards her college clutching the books tightly to her chest not turning back. She rushed over to her class with a flushed face and sat in her seat which was in the second row. Her mind raced over the encounter and she could not control herself from getting frightened.

She was not aware that anonymous eyes could have so much power on her. She hated the fact that anyone who was not known before to her can do wonders. She was disgusted and was surprised at the same time.

She was lost in her thoughts not noticing how her class filled up after the bell and she even failed to notice the new lecturer she was eagerly awaiting.

'Hi, everyone, I'm your new chemistry lecturer, Arnav. Arnav Singh Raizada'

She had her head hung downwards and was confused with the introduction given. She all of a sudden remembered about her new lecturer and quickly lifted up her gaze to meet the same guy she met this morning.

The same guy who sat with her.

Her eyeballs bulged out of her socket as she gasped at the sight. She looked from her left to right and tried to hide behind the front row students when Arnav spotted her. She cowered and lowered head not noticing that Arnav saw her.

Arnav was shocked, then surprised, and immediately his face changed to a smirk admiring the behaviour of the cute girl in front of him. She was not immature but was still a kid. He loved the contrary. Arnav could not control his smile, as he tried to control his chuckle, while he continued to speak.

She tried to look everywhere but not his eyes and he felt the urge to snap her head up and make her look into his eyes. But he could not. He immediately began to imagine, how things could develop, but he wasn't sure how. But he knew that there is a supreme power, which could connect persons if it was meant to be. If 'they' were meant to be, Arnav would be more than happy.

That's when he realised what the signs since morning were all about. The signs were promising which he could not avoid but believe. He knew he had instantly developed something for this magnet sitting before him.

All now left was, how he is going to be connected… may be the signs would show him a way.

Chapter-2

Chapter-3

Chapter-4

Arnav waited at the entrance tapping his phone on his thighs impatiently. He thought that he should have picked her up from her home. She offered to come on her own since she has got something to do on the way. He made Anjali and Bubbly sit in the reserved table and waited outside to take Kushi inside.

He had dialled Kushi's number twice from Anjali's phone and when he was about to press the call button, he felt it was not a good idea and gave up. He began to worry about her safety and after all it was a Saturday night! It is not essential to remind him that the roads would be filled with useless guys making nuisance. He had not fed her number in his phone and hence he had to bring Anjali's with him downstairs.

He took a sharp breath and punched the call button and stuck the phone to his ears. Within two rings, Kushi attended the call.

'Anjali ji, I'm on my way. Stuck up with traffic', she shouted into the phone as it was extremely noisy with traffic all around.

'Um, it's Arnav. Yeah, got it. Just wanted to check if you're ok', Arnav blurted.

'Uh, sorry sir, as I said, …traffic. I'll be there in 5 minutes', she hurriedly ranted and shut the phone taking a deep breath. She didn't expected Arnav on Anjali's phone and she blinked few times after keeping the call down.

Arnav decided to wait because she might not know where they would be sitting and he thought it is better to take her himself inside since he had noticed the bar at entrance being crowded.

Kushi paid the cab off and strode almost like running and saw Arnav standing at the entrance looking at his watch. She immediately recognised her delay. She checked her time and she was 15 minutes late. She approached him quickly.

She noticed how Arnav looked different from his appearance in classes. He was wearing a slim fit linen shirt with his first two buttons undone and a pair of jean that made him look too young to be a lecturer. He looked way more appealing with his hair washed and gel free. He had shoved his hand into his pocket and tapped the other hand on his thighs impatiently.

She reminded herself not to drift away into thoughts and reminded herself to be careful with her every move. She was already late and wanted to behave perfect and not like her first day with Arnav when she stared at him as if never seen a guy before.

They both greeted each other and he led him into the lift. Kushi stood a step ahead as he stuck himself behind her diagonally due to the crowd. That is when Arnav paid attention to her.

She wore a simple white coloured Anarkali suit with thin sequence of gold and bronze. She had thrown her dupatta on a shoulder which left the other shoulder uncovered. He looked every girl in the lift and noticed the sleeveless skimpy outfits they were wearing. By every category, Kushi looked decent with half sleeves that stopped in middle of her arm which showed the rest of her pale skin. He smiled to himself.

Kushi is not a ravishing beauty like Bollywood actresses. But she was pretty in her own way. She had those cute features and attractive attitude that impressed anyone in a second. She is quiet, polite and calm which will make any guy want to know more about her. Arnav was not an exception. He was unable to take her eyes off and continued to think about her forgetting who she was to him.

The lift stopped in a storey which was having a party and picked up three young boys. They were clearly drunk and Arnav felt something prodding his insides. He tried to pull Kushi back but dropped the idea in order to not appear possessive and strict. He's not her lecturer right now. If she thinks she has to be safe, she would come back and stand with him. He left the option to her.

Kushi sensed Arnav's eyes on her even though he stood back. She avoided standing near to him to protect herself from unwanted feelings and thoughts that his proximity evoked into her. But when the lift was loaded with three other boys who were drunk she felt the need to move back. But instead, she compared the impact of proximity and decided to stay where she was.

Arnav being disturbed by the presence of the guys sensed their eyes on Kushi. He curled his fists and turned to the other side from doing anything wrong which could lower his dignity in front of her. He could not look into the other direction for a moment and when he turned again to the boys, he saw one moving towards her.

Arnav quickly clutched her by her waist and brought her close to him roughly. Kushi startled by the tight grip on her waist was even more stunned when she realised it was Arnav's. She crashed onto his sides as she felt the burning sensation on her rib and just below her breast. She kept her hands on his' and tried prying it off as she looked questioningly with a startled expression into Arnav's eyes.

Arnav looked into her eyes for a brief moment and retrieved his hands throwing a warning look towards the guy. The person who didn't noticed Arnav behind her and who had not expected a company along her backed off at the next storey.

By the time, Kushi realised the reason for Arnav's behaviour and kept a hand on her heavily breathing chest. She saw the shrunken material and smoothed it. She clutched her dupatta and kept gulping down whatever arose in her throat. She never looked back at Arnav until they reached the table. Arnav too noticed the crumpled fabric of her sides and felt his face heat up.

'Hi, Kushi' Anjali stood up and hugged Kushi while Bubbly who was already stuffing something into her mouth just waved at her.

'Hi', she greeted back and waved at Bubbly.

Anjali and Bubbly were seated in a side of four seated table leaving the other side for Arnav and Kushi. She had no choice but to sit down with Arnav. They ordered food, spoke about various stuff and when the food they ordered came, they began eating with silence.

Though she felt uncomfortable near him she could not ignore but wonder how they both looked as a couple. She doubted if their heights matched, whether they look equal age wise, etc. She was not even out of her trance, when a lady trailed towards them.

'Hello, hi, bye, bye! Anjali, Arnav!' she shrieked making Kushi jump who had just woken up from her monologue.

Arnav chuckled at Kushi's reaction, leaned to her ears and whispered, 'Aunt from native. She doesn't know we are settled here. She might be a little loud but good at heart.' He said casually as he stood up to talk to her. Kushi nodded in return with a smile and stood with Arnav as a matter of respect. Arnav saw her stand along with him and he felt delighted. Some sort of pride climbed over his shoulder as she stood near her.

The lady, Manorama, noticed the petite girl near Arnav. She stood along with him which impressed her immediately. She was elated that Arnav found a nice pair for him and she felt the necessity to show her happiness.

'Arnav! You found a girl by yourself! My god, she's so good looking and polite! Where did you find such a pretty bride amongst the spoilt brats!' she exclaimed and pulled Kushi's cheeks. Kushi looked like a deer that was caught in the middle of headlights. She shook her head and looked at Arnav with a pleading face.

Arnav was delight to hear that though he knew it's wrong. He inwardly felt excited. He didn't want to deny. But he felt the need to. After all Kushi is standing beside him with a baffled look. He took Manorama's hands from Kushi's cheeks.

'Not exactly, Aunty ji. She's my student and Anjali's friend. Her name is Kushi', he turned to Kushi and introduced 'Kushi, she's Manorama, our aunt'.

Kushi hid her shock, held her hands together and greeted. Manorama greeted back and after some exclamations and complaints, she left the place. Anjali just shook her head with a laugh and focussed in feeding Bubbly. Kushi who was already taken aback by the sudden barge of Manorama and her confession could not pay attention to food and stayed quiet. She looked at Anjali to start a conversation but seeing Anjali busy she focussed on to her thoughts.

She wanted to stop behaving all jumpy and nervous. She knew that Arnav is trying hard to make things easier and she instead of helping, making things complicated. She decided to behave as normal as possible. He is just her lecturer and they stared right into each other's eyes not knowing what's coming up. Apart from that, what is there to feel uncomfortable around him? She promised herself to behave normally and to bravely face things. It's not wrong to develop a good rapport with a lecturer. Why can't she give him and herself, a chance? She determined to shove every jitter aside and focus into what she has in her hands now. Arnav, who wanted to clear the air of awkwardness decided to speak to her first.

'So, Kushi, how is the food?' he almost whispered as she was sitting so close to him.

Kushi felt herself tremble again against the breath. But she reminded herself to be strong as the feelings are just because of her nervousness due to her acquaintance with a lecturer. She convinced herself that being friends with teachers are not that bad. Once she made up her mind, she spoke casually.

'The food is delicious. I had never had such a dinner before. Thanks to both of you actually', she was extremely grateful for the luxurious dinner they gave for her.

Anjali who was way too engrossed in taming the defiant bubbly just smiled at Kushi with a pleading expression for not paying much attention to her. Kushi understood Anjali's suffering being a mother and just chuckled at her with a nod to ensure she understood.

'It's our pleasure, Kushi. Are you saying you've never been to Taj before?' Arnav asked. How could she have not visited Taj before? He learnt from Anjali that she's residing in the same town since her birth.

'Yes, I meant the same, sir. You see, my mother being a single parent for me and my elder brother cannot afford such an expensive dinner', she said as a matter of fact and looked up at Arnav's eyes which was surprised at her innocent admission.

He has seen so many girls who just exaggerated their status and wealth but at the end they'll all look the same to him. Kushi here admitted that she could not afford a meal at Taj but she looked more amazing than the rest. She was special, she appeared special. The content and tolerance shone in her face which added glow to her face.

'If you don't mind, can you please tell me about your family?' he wanted to know every single detail about her. It was so intriguing and only few people are worth stalking. Kushi is one among such.

'Sure, sir', she readily wiped the corners of her lips elegantly with clothe. She slightly turned to his direction to face him better and continued, 'My father, Sashi Gupta passed away when I was five years old. Since that my mother, Garima, brought us up by doing small jobs like sewing, cooking food for functions and by tutoring the local kids. When my brother, Akash, joined his job as a HR manager then, who is 27 now, we became economically fine. Now everything is smooth'.

Arnav just nodded showing his interest in knowing her. He could feel the emotions getting stronger in him. So, Kushi has a brother, he thought. He doesn't know if it was for good or bad but he wished things go smooth. He was never drawn to a girl so fast and steady but he didn't try to control himself as it was only for goodness. He knew Kushi is his goodness.

'So, where is your brother now? I didn't get to see him around when I came to your house', Arnav asked taking a bite.

Kushi who has resumed eating by now took her time to swallow and replied, 'He's at London right now. He's there for a project. He'll be back in a month's time.'

He nodded with a smile and ordered their dessert.

Kushi excused herself to restroom and returned back to her table to meet someone who is the last person she wanted to see at the moment.

'Hey, Kushi! Never thought I'll meet you in this expensive restaurant' the person greeted her sarcastically.

'Uh, Hey, Sh… Shyam. I.. um, came for a dinner', she stuttered not wanting to Arnav to show up from anywhere behind.

'I see! Since when did this middle class girl started to have dinner at Taj?' he asked insulting.

'Well, i just uh, wanted to t.. try. You know', she looked back to make sure Arnav is still seated.

'Oh.. Try? That's good. Yeah, I can understand that you had broken your piggy bank', he retorted.

Kushi was not in a mood to care for the insults thrown at her but Arnav did. He was listening to the entire conversation going behind him. Anjali did noticed too and was looking sternly at Arnav for not showing any reaction. Little did she know that Arnav is raging inside with anger. He tried to tolerate not wanting to make everyone in their class aware that they came for dinner together. But he failed when the mocking was increasing towards Kushi

He all of a sudden pushed the chair roughly behind as he woke up. He strode towards Kushi and asked if she's ok. He added that he came to look for as she took time.

When Kushi tried to explain, Arnav looked at Shyam with a look of warning as he greeted, 'Hi, Shyam. I didn't expect you here'.

'Oh, hi, sir. I didn't expect you here too. Hey wait, you both came together?' he asked clearly shocked. He looked at Kushi from top to bottom and the way Arnav stood close to her.

'Yes, we are family friends and we did. Any problem?' he asked with a determined look that frightened Shyam.

'Nope, no problem at all. I didn't know you know each other before. Alright, I'll take a leave, Bye, sir! And, bye, Kushi'. He walked among in between the tables looking back again and again until he reached the entrance.

'Oh, no…' Kushi whined slightly as she kept her hands over face.

'Kushi, are you alright?' Arnav was worried at her reaction. She had never shown such emotions in front of him. But he was happy that Kushi has started to become comfortable around him. He could see the improvement since their frank interaction at the dining table.

'Sir, Shyam will let everyone know that he saw us here. I don't know how I'm going to face it', she said nervously as she bit her lip.

Arnav placed a hand on her shoulder oblivious to his brain. All he intended was to console her and in fact Kushi wondered if he was aware of his action. 'Kushi, are you seriously worried about that?'

He felt her moving slightly under his touch as he saw his hands over her shoulder. He quickly retrieved his hands and before he could even apologise, she spoke, 'you'll see the impact on Monday, sir'.

With that said she joined Anjali at table as he watched them. He rubbed his stubble thoughtfully and sighed on the fact that how many hindrances he had to fight for this girl.

Raizadas thanked Kushi at the end of the dinner only to make Kushi whine. She told them that they are making her feel like Jhansi Rani with a heated face. They all laughed and it was a moment of happiness. Arnav mentally took a picture of the scene and sighed in contentment.

They left for their home and it began to drizzle. They all ran towards their car to protect themselves from getting drenched. Anjali entered following Bubbly and Arnav thought by the time Kushi let herself get in, she'll be wet. He ushered her to get in the front passenger door and rushed to his seat.

He ignited the car and drove towards home. Bubbly sneezed few times and Anjali suggested that he drops them first as she has to give medicines to Bubbly before she catches cold. Arnav complied and it was only Arnav and Kushi when they drove towards Kushi's home.

Kushi clutched her hands together and kept watching outside. She could not deny the fact that she has become quite comfortable around Arnav but still spending time with him all alone was a different story. She turned to his direction casually to take a look at him.

Arnav had his hands on the steering strongly with his fingers around it. His eyes were fixated on the road. His look was sharp and his eyebrows were connected due to deep thoughts. His sharp nose was a bonus to his hotness. His jaws were set firmly as though he was gritting his teeth. He had the rough features and it added mystery to his appearance but he was not a reserved or short tempered personality. He was soft. He knew manners. He impressed.

She looked at the shrivelled material in her sides and kept a hand on it unconsciously. She felt his touch and she felt her stomach churning in reaction. She closed her eyes and tried to look outside the window to divert her. Arnav who was seeing everything through the corner of his eyes felt the tension and he had never felt hard before in controlling his emotions. He wanted to make her his own and the privacy they shared had brought him to the verge of losing control.

He found a thought that snapped his rational mind. When she touched her sides, he felt the urge of wrapping his hands around her slender waist and it shocked him to the core. He clutched the steering wheel too strongly and set his jaws tight from doing anything he would regret later. He even imagined the actions in his mind and saw Kushi's perplexed face with tears. He closed his eyes unable to take it and just consoled himself that everything would be fine when the time moves.

It's not a crush and it's something more. But Arnav cannot decide things as there are various factors involved in the matter of Kushi. Heck, in fact she's his student. And she has not even completed her college! But, the relationship they shared as a student and teacher would end in few months when her degree comes to an end. She will be 21 when she finishes her college by then he will be 27 too. 6 years of age difference is not a big deal when it comes to love and the only hindrance of being her teacher would be out of the air too.

He made mental calculations and shifted the gear with full attitude and zoomed towards her house. He stopped at her entrance as they both got down. He walked towards her and thanked her for accepting their invite. They spent few minutes in silence as he soke again.

'I'm sorry for behaving like that on the lift. I didn't know how to.. um..you know,' he ran his hand through his hair.

'I understand, sir', she held her hands together and shifted from one leg to the other not expecting this apology. She pursed her lips and looked at the corner of the street and then her feet.

'I know you would. You can press your dress again to smooth it down', he pointed to her physique where he had touched earlier. Her eyes slightly widened and she protectively kept a hand over it as if stopping his eyes from boring into the material.

His lips broke into a smirk as he waved and got into his car. She waited until he drove but he insisted her to go in before he left.

She nodded and disappeared into her cozy little house. She rushed to her room and locked her door. This dinner has made things worse and better. She could not figure if it was for good or bad. But she liked it. She wanted it continue. She felt the desperate need of his presence around her like today. She badly missed him even though it was only a minute ago she saw him last. She rushed to her window and saw his car turning the corner.

It rained heavily which made harder to see things through the glass. Arnav turned on the wiper let it sway over the glass. He compared the rain water to Kushi and his mental turmoil to the wiper. How Kushi flowed like there is no end to her memories and how his heart is trying fight over the torment. He knew he had developed feelings soon but it was all because he could clearly see that the feelings are not something that could be got over when time goes. He knew it'll only make him regret badly if he had let her go. The one feeling he hated is Regret and he vowed not to feel it in the issue of Kushi.

Kushi is not easy because, she is amazing… If she is that amazing, well, it's not going to be easy. He promised his heart to make the amazing his'.

Chapter-5

Kushi tapped the alarm on its head to stop it from blaring anymore. The Monday had dawned finally. It had so many in store for her but whether it is for good or for bad, she don't know. If everyone could know anything what was to come, then the days would not be the same. Life would not be the same.

She had something to expect, she had something to be afraid of, she had something to regret. But until the day unfolds she can't know what she would be having in her hands at the end of the day. Her thoughts delayed her routines as she rose from her bed and skated around to get ready for her classes.

The Sunday seemed to be very slow for Arnav who spent the day at home. He roamed around the house, tried to help his twin sister Anjali at kitchen but ended up making the kitchen a huge mess, and after spending few hours in watching movies, he finally met with Monday, the start of an another week.

He peeked into his watch which showed the time that he should be already in his class. He was few minutes late which means his class was still being wild by the weekend drug. Until he gets into his class, the screams, the whistles and the noise were going to continue making the whole college a party hall.

Arnav stepped into his class to stop dead in his tracks. The whistles and hoots which should have subsided by the moment have only increased to his shock.

Kushi entered into her class few minutes ago with a smiling face anticipating the classes that she loved nowadays. She had shoved away the fear consoling her that she had not done anything wrong that the world would blame her of. She was startled by the sudden hoots and shrieks that her arrival has raised and instantly she turned around with a confused face to find the blackboard filled with bold letters and sketches. She dropped her hands to her sides, bewildered, as she finally comprehended what was in the board.

He saw Kushi, who must have stopped in her tracks just like him, was standing in the front facing the board. Her face was pale as if a truck ran through her. Her face wore an expression that etched pain and hurt as she hung her head down with eyes closely shut.

He stepped ahead to look at the blackboard which had torn her apart. It had sketches of two figures which was a boy and a girl. The boy sketch had its arms around the girl which was wearing a flowing dress that resembled Kushi's dress of Saturday. That's when Arnav's mind snapped with reality. So, the sketch was about… them! Near the sketch, it read 'Chemistry is destined to react in lab but it did in Taj! 'Happiness' wooed 'Handsome'!'

Even though it was an innuendo, it was obvious for anyone to find. Kushi who was not aware of the presence of the person, she was accused of with, turned around to find him looking at her with an expression that was a mixture of guilt, apology, sympathy and few others that she could not dare to look upon or name them. She, unable to face him, lowered her fuming face further and walked out of the class. It was like a breeze whipping by his sides without reaching him. He closed his eyes and groaned inwardly at the sudden walk over.

He pursed his lips, took in breath, walked over to his table, and slammed the books. The class immediately simmered down from its noise and it was quiet as a graveyard. Arnav had a tight expression in his face as he looked everyone carefully. He spotted Shyam cowering behind a boy and it will take no time for Arnav to corner the guy. But he knew it is of no use. Whatever he does in response to it, is all going to go by the drain.

He sighed unbelievably and continued his class. But every one of them realised that the class held no charm as it used to be.

Kushi ran into her room and shut the door behind. He lied to her mother that her head throbbed and she could no longer concentrate in her class. She sprawled over her bed and sobbed silently. She did have feelings and she had realised it when Arnav dropped her at home but it was not in the sense as her classmates have understood it to be. Kushi herself convinced that it was just a crush that every girl has over his charming lecturer one day or the other. But why was she accused of such a cheap stunt? She only had a dinner with him. That too not alone. And that too not on his or her wish but his sister's.

She clutched the pillow tightly into her small palm as she initiated to whimper after she tried to control her from crying. How she ever going to face everything was out of question as she had already begun to worry about how she was ever going to face him again.

She let her tears fall until she drifted to a deep slumber due to tiredness.

Arnav returned home that evening with a heavily aching head. He went straight into his room to change after calling out to Anjali for a coffee which he believed to calm his stinging down. He sat in his chair with Anjali opposite wondering what went wrong with his brother today.

She saw him humming his favourite tune while he got ready to his work and now he sat before her with a slightly angered expression. Arnav was a person that rarely fumed on things. He was tolerable and patience enough since he was a kid. She, being his twin sister, has spent more time than anyone with him which resulted her in knowing every move of his. She know that there should be something really wrong which has made him upset.

And she wanted to calm him down. She tried attempting something that she guessed it would soothe him. But less did she know that it is not the right topic at the moment.

Anjali pulled her drawer and picked the cover in her hands. She walked over to him and placed it before him. Arnav looked up at her questioningly when she opened her mouth to explain.

'Arnav, I have spoken to you about it already. But you have always diverted the topic. That's fine because you had enough time. The last bachelor friend of yours has settled down with a girl he chose last week. I think it's time for you to-'

Arnav by the time who has understood her notions could not wait until she finished and the desperation made him open up, 'I have someone in my mind, Anjali. I'll talk to you about it when the right time comes'.

With that said he bolted towards his room and Anjali who gaped at his confession broke into a smile. It was what she had waited for. She waited for this since her mother held her hands and took promise from her to take care of Arnav though he was her age.

When Kushi lazily opened her eyes from her deep sleep it was already noon. She heard loud voices from downstairs as her eyelids again drawn together to continue with her sleep.

'Hello, hi, bye, bye!' the voice shrieked downstairs as Kushi's eyes flared open.

She sat upright as she heard it. She shook her head and lunged forward the railing to witness the lady, Manorama, she saw at Taj. She gasped and saw her mother, Garima, serving her with snacks and drinks.

Kushi refreshed her up and went down to greet the guest that she had already known. She wondered if the lady came here knowing that it was her home but she wasn't sure. She decided to look upon herself as she descended.

Garima saw Kushi coming down and introduced her to kushi beaming, 'Kushi, this is Manorama, my friend and Mano, this is my daughter Kushi'.

'Hello, hi, Kush-. Wait!! I know you! Erm.. I met her.. Umm' she scratched her head as she drowned in thoughts trying to remember her.

'Taj. With the Raizada family', Kushi smiled at the lady's antics as she switched her face from one expression to the other.

'Yes. Right!' she was surprised, 'How are you, dear?' she came towards Kushi and kissed her forehead.

'I'm fine, Aunty. How are you?' Kushi asked with a smile as she joined them happily.

Kushi by the conversation learned that her mother and Manorama were friends from childhood and she has come to visit her. They spoke various things and Kushi also learnt that she doesn't know that the Raizadas reside nearby.

'What? Anjali and Arnav live in this area?' she asked.

'Yes, aunty, they do. They had just shifted here and it is our college's accommodation for the staffs', Kushi explained.

'I see. Can you please come with me and show their place?' Manorama requested.

'Why not? Kushi, take Manorma there and show her their house', Garima insisted.

'Ye.. Yeah.. Sure', Kushi said but hesitated a lot to face certain things.

She gulped as they got up to leave for the Raizada's.

Chapter-6

Khushi knew Arnav would be home this time. She was so hesitant to go with Manorama but she had no choice. Her mother kept pushing her as she doesn't want to make her friend Manorama, who she had met after ages, roam in the streets looking for the right house. Khushi was glad that she could help the poor woman who wants to know where her nephew and niece reside. But she was bothered with the persons whom she's trying to spot out.

Khushi dragged her feet along with Manorama to her car and directed her as she drove. Manorama's car pulled up at the entrance of Arnav's house and Khushi felt her heart racing up. Her face heated to a dangerous temperature and she kept consoling her that everything would be alright and there is no fault of hers involved. Though she tried hard, her heart nearly exploded when the door opened in response to the car's engine sound.

She thanked God when the door was opened by Anjali whose eyes lit up when she saw Khushi at the door. Khushi let out a sigh of relief and with a forced smile pointed towards Manorama who was parking her car. She could not bring herself to speak anything and she discovered that it is better to maintain silence or do some gesture if demanded a response. If being prodded further, Khushi determined to shrink the conversation into a word or two. Something told her that if she opened her mouth she would end up crying.

Further exchange of the women went into a mute mode as Khushi's watched them without an expression. Both of the women spoke animatedly throwing their hands up and down with bulging eyes and surprised look on their faces. She heard nothing as her mind went on and on with the classroom humiliation which made her face turn into a deep crimson unable to digest the mortification that has happened to her for the first time.

Many of her female classmates had dated her male mates. Some of them even has break up stories. But the next day they would act as if nothing happened. As if they don't even recognise each other. But Khushi was not from that category. She had values. She had morals. She had dignity. Being a girl without father, she was expected to slip or to make a mistake by the eagle eyed neighbours and relatives who wanted to criticise her at some point. But she had never given them a chance and she had behaved so well at home and at class.

The last thing she ever wanted to have is being accused of to be in a relationship with her teacher. She shuddered at the thought as she turned to leave urgently. She felt a tug at her hand and saw Anjali pulling her in along with Manorama. She realised that she was trying to leave without even telling them. Khushi shook her head in denial unable to form words as she was still in the thoughts which made her connected to Arnav. She was dwelt so much into her inner turmoil that made her not substantiate that she was into the house already.

She walked hesitantly towards the ladies and took a glance all over the house to spot that one living things which has disturbed her since they had met for the first time. She tried to listen to their conversation because by at least that she could know here he was. When she forced herself to pay attention,

'Khushi, what are you thinking?' Anjali asked with a wide smile on seeing her aunt and also by noticing Khushi searching something.

'Huh?' she woke her up from the trance and that was the best she could give at the moment.

'I saw you looking around and inquired if you were searching Bubbly. But you weren't seem to be conscious', she said jokingly as Manorama smiled along.

'Uh, sorry, I wasn't paying attention. I'm sorry. Yeah, where is she?' Khushi was surprised with her own as she asked. She never expected her to speak clearly at the moment.

'I just tucked her in bed for noon nap. I hope she hasn't fallen asleep', she spoke and pointed towards Bubbly's room behind.

Khushi nodded and walked quickly towards the room before they call Arnav downstairs. The whole ground floor of the house had only a hall and kitchen along with a room which is Bubbly's. If Bubbly is in her room to sleep then Arnav probably has to be in his room.

Khushi went in to find Bubbly tucked under her duvet patterned with teddies and holding a photo frame in her hands. She waited near the door to find any movement which would confirm Bubbly's sleep. But Bubbly saw Khushi at the door and jumped up in excitement. Khushi instantly placed a finger on her lips to make Bubbly quiet and rushed to her side. She made Bubbly lie flat and covered her with her duvet till her ear. She sat by her side.

'You can resume with your sleep. Your mommy is busy with guest and I thought I could sit by you', Khushi said with a smile as she patted the girl's head lovingly.

'OK', bubbly whispered as her eyelids threatened to close anytime.

Khushi just smiled and assured her with eyes that she's near her. Bubbly smiled back and as if she had remembered something, picked the photo frame up and showed it to Khushi. Khushi took it from her hands and tried to identify the person who was in the picture.

He was a handsome guy with plenty of hair at proper length and had dark brown orbs just like Bubbly did. His eyebrows were thick framing the perfect eyes. Unable to figure, she looked at Bubbly for assistance.

'My daddy', Bubbly blurted in her half sleep.

Khushi felt her heartbeat stop as she starred at the poor soul. Her eyes immediately moistened as she remembered her own father. Not knowing what to say, she gulped down the lump in her throat. She tried to smile and nodded.

'Ma says he was a good person. He had bought me lots of toys. You know the train toy I have right?' she questioned Khushi.

'Yes,' Khushi let out a wisp of air that didn't even form a word. But her nod assured the small girl that she knew.

'My dad bought me that one. I like it so much. So, I take care of it by wiping the dust regularly', she kept speaking and her words told her how much she was proud of her father.

Khushi saw herself in Bubbly and wondered if every girl loves their father to the same extend. A tear slipped as she missed her father and his pampering towards her. She wiped as Bubbly continued.

'I love my father sooo much!' she spread her hands in the air, 'But Ma says he cannot get to know it as he had gone to rest in God's house. But she said there is a way to make him know my love'.

Khushi furrowed her eyebrows to let her know she's interested in knowing them. Gotten with the gesture, bubbly continued.

'By being good. Ma said if I live as a good girl, my daddy will get to know that I love him. She said, fathers love good daughters'.

Khushi felt like something slapping her mind. For a moment, she forgot that she's a grown up and doubted whether her father would love her. Though her father had left her when she was five, she had loved him like any other daughter who has their father alive. She swallowed the tears that threatened to fall out with the sudden fear that gripped her conscience. She worried whether her father would show her the same care and love if he knows what happened in college? She felt that it was her mistake to behave which would allow people blame her for something cheap. When her mind reflected things more clearly and honestly, she felt betrayed.

She scanned her memories very clearly for one more time, only to realise that she had developed feelings. No. She quickly got up from the bed in a fraction of second. She was frightened of herself. She was frightened about the fact how fast she had fallen for him. She now all too well, was clear that she liked Arnav. She shook her head slowly to attempt a lie towards the conscience that was pointing a charge at her.

No. She doesn't want that. She doesn't want Arnav to look her that way. Not her teacher to look that way. She kept a hand over throat as she suffocated with thought. She kept gulping the lump and blinked away the tears that brimmed at the edges.

Bubbly had fallen asleep and Khushi needed to get home as soon as possible. She could not be at the same place where Arnav was. She was a girl who appreciated the idea of being together at the same place but now it all seemed to be a nightmare. Arnav has become something she's afraid of. He had become something that would lose all her will to be strong. She didn't need the weakness.

She turned abruptly only to be rammed into the well-defined chest that was hard enough which made her stagger and fall back on the bed.

***

Arnav missed Khushi. That sort of hurt made him open up to Anjali like that. He was sure about what he felt towards Khushi but he wasn't sure whether he was right. He didn't know whether he was right because he could not comprehend khushi. He could not decipher what goes into that little brain of hers. Her eyes spoke mystery and it was like a sealed mouth of old wine which banned the entry but gave the intoxication.

He ran a frustrated hand into his hair. He rested the hand right there on top of his head and pulled his hair to forget the hurt in that pain. It confused him like hell and the absence of the petite girl made him go numb. He felt that the class had lost its soul today. She left the class and he had to continue because he cannot follow her all the way and console her.

He let her go and continued the class. Her spot was empty which burned his mind and it was entirely spiritless for Arnav to teach the class with the same enthusiasm. The sudden loss of her made him upset and the sore mood continued till now making him wonder what will free him out.

'Arnav!' Anjali called her out as he snapped out of the trance.

He thought of spending time with his sister and niece which would relax his mind as he descended down. He was surprised to his Aunt sitting there with her sister chatting away.

'Mano Aunty, you?' he asked clearly surprised yet not in the mood of welcoming.

'Yes, me. Do you even care to tell me where you stay?' Manorama asked with a fake anger.

'Yeah, sorry, I wanted to call you but forgot', he apologised sincerely and inquired her further, 'But who told you we are here?'

'Who else! Your student, of course!' she spoke with a tint of complaint for being ignored.

'Student? Who?' he asked discombobulated.

'Khushi', Anjali replied this time to let him know the details, 'Mano aunty and Khushi's mother are friends. Mano aunty didn't know we live here and Khushi had brought here knowing her lack of knowledge'.

Manorama slapped Anjali's arms fakingly for the choice of words she made. Both the women burst into laughter not noticing the frozen face of Arnav. He stood there still but managed to ask, 'Where is she?'

'Bubbly's room', Before Anjali could even finish the sentence, he dashed towards the door which left both women smile at each other surprised.

Once he opened the door, he saw Khushi sat in Bubbly's bed leaning towards Bubbly listening to what she was saying. He heard the whole conversation go between the girls and waited until they are over. He had a lot to say to her. He took the time to rehearse himself for the upcoming encounter when he saw the exchange going deeper and deeper with the sensitive topic.

He remembered the Taj dinner where Khushi said her father passed away when she was a little girl. His mind raced with curiosity to know if she was relating things. But he waited until the interaction was over. He had a lot to say. He waited.

He saw Khushi got up from the bed all of a sudden as if trying to escape something. She turned suddenly and ran into Arnav's chest which bounced her off to the bed. Her mental whirlpool made her weak unable to stand the things that was on her way. She had fallen flat but managed to lift her head and supported her elbow on the bed to get up but had paused seeing Arnav.

Arnav, who waited for her to recognise her presence instead, saw a Khushi who looked like she was living a nightmare. He was bewildered to see Khushi with an utterly messed up state of mind. He wanted to rush to her side and comfort her but he was not in a situation to do as he thought. He stood there trying to look for a sign of admission but Khushi remained seated and searched his eyes hungrily for an assurance.

He forgot all the words that he had formed in his mind. He wanted to tell her what he felt; he wanted to tell her how it was not both of theirs fault; He wanted to tell her how bad it was to have a day without her. But he forgot. He could not bring them back into his memory. All he remembered was a single word from the whole paragraphs of sentences.

He saw hurt, guilt, fear, and many more in her always mysterious eyes and he again failed in deciphering them. He saw pain, he wanted to wipe it. He saw fear, he wanted to assure her. He saw guilt, he wanted to comfort her. But what would he do for the others, which he found in those melting brown orbs?

He stood still unable to give her the warmth she needed. She looked at him demanding answers that would remove her turmoil and tremors but he stood there unable to proceed. All he needed was a small signal to proceed and he would be there by her side. But she didn't know what he required and he didn't get what was stopping her.

The two souls tried to bore into the other to find answers and solutions but the masks they wore in the society stopped them as they both did nothing.

Arnav who was completely down with agony wanted to give her happiness. He blamed himself for the accusation thrown at her. It was all that she doesn't deserve. She had helped her family and all he did was being a reason for the accusations to be thrust. He didn't want her to suffer. He knew she was a happy and content girl before he entered her life on that one fateful fine day.

He felt the need to apologise. Sorry- that was the one word he remembered from his monologue that he had wanted to speak to her. That was the only word that stood readily at the tip of her tongue. He wanted to let it out loud to her and wanted to end all the pain that both were going through. He wanted to release them out of the trance that they are in. He wanted to leave everything right then and there as he decided to give up. The moment came.

'Sorry!' He apologised in a rasp as Khushi's forehead began to crease.

With that said he bolted from his place and dashed out of the door leaving a confused khushi back.

Initially she found no reason for him to apologize. But she didn't require much time to find the reason.

It was for everything. Everything.

She walked out of their house, expressionless. She felt things crashing down as she dragged her feet out of the place. She had never felt so hollow and empty. It was like there is nothing left to expect or to anticipate anything hereafter. It seemed all colourless as she plainly ran her eyes on every object she saw from their entrance. It rained profusely and she didn't minded walking into it.

It was the only thing that seemed to welcome her to hug her in its arms. She readily walked into the rain from their porch. But her mind still fought the battle that seemed to never end.

Kyun khwaabon pe tere saaye hai…

(Why does your shadow hover upon my dreams?)

She stood there forgetting the place, forgetting the situation, forgetting the climate. The rainwater drenched her from top to bottom as her hair plastered on her scalp and forehead. She was confused as to why she can't remove his thoughts even for a second. She was confused as to why his sorry brought so much pain in to her life. She was confused that why his absence is being such a hell. She was confused and everything remained confused.

Dil kyn hai tanha mera…

(Why is my heart so lonely?)

The loneliness which haunted her since a minute ago was such a fearful darkness that threatened her to swallow her in. She was scared how she would survive all alone without a hand to squeeze her palm which would assure the presence. She felt alone. All alone. The strings of water surrounded her like iron bars as she felt chocked.

Kyun kamoshi hai zuban pe meri…

(Why is my tongue tied with silence?)

She walked a few steps and unable to move from where he was, she turned to look at the house as she felt like seeing him. But there he was already in his balcony watching her. But she felt emotionless as she caught his stare. They spoke a lot and they had shared a lot but they don't have the strength say it aloud. Do they? Do they have the ability to understand what they were sharing? She cursed her silence.

Aashkon se keh paaon na…

(I can't seem to describe them through tears…)

Her tears diluted among the raindrops and lost its shape. If tears could speak out what she wanted to tell him, she was ready to fill an ocean with it. But tears don't exactly speak and she felt scared that they may tell him very less of what she was going through. She had some things to stop herself from running to him and won't he understand it? She looked at him longingly to understand her. When he stood there all too confused, she wished at least he knew the little amount of her feeling that her tears could say. But that too dissolved in the rain.

Kyun dard hait itna, tere ishq mein…

(Why is there so much pain in your love?)

So, this is what she got at last? Her dreams, though they are only few weeks old, and her prayers, though they were from only since few weeks, seemed to haunt her with pain and agony. She felt them unbearable as she continued to look at him for help. He wished he would run to her and wipe the traces of hurt from her. But he remained where he was and it gave her more pain. She would never understand why she was stopped. That's what she had thought. She lost the small spark of hope she held, somewhere in the droplets as she broke her gaze.

She turned. And walked away.

Chapter-7

Disturbing and lonely weeks rolled.

It was hard for both of them to mind their own business. But they had no option or choice to make. Life wasn't easy after that incident but both of them tried to get used.

Khushi didn't attend her classes for the next 2 days and many thought that she was offended by the accusations shot at her. Sure, she was upset but what hurt her more was the little exchange occurred between her and Arnav at Bubbly's room. It disturbed her so much and she could not come to a conclusion regarding why it happened to her and why did he chose to get away. But even if she could get his side of reasons, could she do anything about it? Never, of course! She had her own issues!

Khushi can never let down her family for her feelings. Her feelings did appear decent and reasonable for her but what the society would think made her back off from the idea. She avoided Arnav since the next day and continued to do so.

She would never look up in his class and will do whatever she was asked to do clearly making visible that she's avoiding things. They would come across at the hallway and they would pretend as if they had not noticed the other and would take a turn abruptly. It was hard for them to play the hide and seek which held no fun.

It was only disappointment and forced indifference. Arnav had gone through the same. His activities bewildered Khushi making her doubt whether he knew she existed. But she just swallowed the agony and continued to exist. She didn't live after that but existed.

Arnav found it real hard to survive before her eyes even though he clearly didn't want it. Taking classes with her sitting right before him wasn't that easy. It took so much effort and i-don't-mind attitude to work it out.

But days passed. The exams were around the corner and Khushi had learnt to concentrate herself more into her academics and now she was thorough with all her subjects. She needed a distraction and it's only very few who choose studies as a distraction and Khushi is one among that few. She had become wiser and had the answers at her fingertips. She had never felt this much nerdy in her life and she would just chuckle at her thought.

By the time, Akash had landed from London finishing off his project successfully which rewarded him with a promotion and an increment. Garima was happy to see his son being success and her daughter doing fine in her studies. Akash too was elated to find her sister so much into her career. The family was happy. Except one little soul that held pain and disappointment over her life.

She learnt to live with it. It gave her a different experience and she found it teaching her lessons on life. She decided to be patient until life concludes something for her. But she still hoped for the best. Sure, she had wasted her weeks without anything to expect or anticipate but decided to socially live for her family. Akash had noticed her hesitance after he came and when he asked, she brushed it off as nothing. But she vowed to change herself.

Khushi took her books determinedly and walked in her hallway to go back home.

'Miss. Gupta!' she heard a musical voice calling her.

She turned back to come face to face with Lavanya Kashyap, a lecturer from Computer Science department. Though she was from a different department, they had met few times before during examinations when Lavanya would come to invigilate them.

'Hi', Lavanya greeted her again.

'Hello Miss. Kashyap, How are you doing?', Khushi asked politely though she spoke trying to be friendly.

'I'm good. So, are you leaving for home?' lavanya questioned with a huge C language book in her hands.

'Yes, my classes just got over', Khushi replied and continued, 'Do you want me to do anything?'

'Erm, yes. I need a favour', she appeared nervous, 'Could you please pass this book to Mr. Raizada?'

Khushi's heart slammed to her ribs as she hesitantly extended her hand towards the book. Her smile faded replacing a jitter stricken face. 'Sure', she spoke softly and turned to walk towards the Staff's cabin to give the book. She didn't even bother to leave after bidding a proper adieu.

'Ask him to go through it', Lavanya called out from behind as Khushi just turned around and nodded with a smile.

Her stomach churned not knowing how to face him. But she walked further not noticing the door that was closed. She ran into it, and staggered back dropping the book down with a thud. She was annoyed at herself and massaged her forehead from forming a bump. She bent down and picked up the book to find a small note lying near it.

She picked it along with the book and saw the content unintentionally. It had a lip mark smudged with a dark shade of lipstick and words were scrawled along. It read, 'Would like to go out this Saturday?'

Khushi's eyes widened with realisation as she quickly tucked it inside the pages. She tried to walk with great difficulty towards the staff's cabin. She was at his door and knocked to get access into it.

'Yes, get in!', the manly voice of Arnav grant her permission as she opened the door to see him seated.

He was there with a surprised look as he steadily sat from leaning back. He looked at her expectantly as she strolled towards his table. Her eyes drifted to the book and to his face again as he curiously looked at the book in his hands.

She extended it to him and handed it. He furrowed his eyebrows together as he took it from her. He saw the letter 'C' printed boldly at the cover and looked puzzled at Khushi not knowing what he has got to do with a C language book.

'Miss. Lavanya Kashyap from Computer Science department asked me to pass this to you', she said softly.

His confusion didn't seem to clear out as she spoke again.

'She asked you to go through it', Khushi gestured to flip the pages in order to make him understand what Lavanya had expected him to do. If that was the thing, Khushi didn't mind helping her to achieve it though it hit her with jealousy pangs.

Arnav found her gesture cute as he let out a lopsided smile without opening her lips. That small smile brought a tug in her heart but she ignored it. This was not about them Khushi convinced her.

He flipped the pages until the note fell onto his lap. He took it between his index and middle finger and read it. He immediately looked at Khushi who averted her gaze down. He felt some sort of anger ripple inside him when he thought what Khushi would have thought about him if she had read it. He had not even come across this Kashyap twice yet. They had met at canteen once and had shared the table because it was crowded and now this.

He hated the way the matter was hinted and he mentally threw his hands above why it all ended up with Khushi witnessing. He was frustrated at the thought why anything doesn't appear decent and interesting if it was from anyone that was not Khushi. He thought it is not good to make her stand for so long. She might even miss her bus. Arnav had long before given up the idea of travelling through the bus she takes. Nowadays he drove his car to college which had increased his expenditure which is not a matter to him at all.

'Thanks, and you may go now', he spoke to her very formally as a teacher and she left.

***

Khushi threw her bag on the bed, flopped in it and dug her face into her hands. She felt like pulling her hair not knowing what to do. They both were trying to mind their own business and why should the fate put them at such situations. Khushi could not wait for her exams to get done so that, she'll be away from him completely.

She had plans to study further but she was not a nerd who thinks only studies would give knowledge. She is fine with anything after her degree completes, though it's a job or higher studies. Her privacy was interrupted when Akash knocked her door.

'Khushi?', he let his head to peek inside to see his sisters seated with her head into her hands. 'Sorry, I knocked. But I didn't get an answer and had to come in'.

'It's ok, Akash. You don't have to explain', she smiled slowly as she signalled him to come in.

He stepped into the compact room and sat with his sister, patting her head, 'Are you ok? My sister doesn't take time to smile'.

'Ha, no. I was just tired', Khushi laughed.

'That's my sister! Hey look, Ma wanted me to tell you that someone named Anjali had rung asking you. Call her back, ok?' Akash reminded.

Khushi groaned inwardly and asked with a whine, 'When?'

'I guess…' he looked thoughtful, 'at noon?'

'Ok! I'll call her', she said lazily.

'Why don't you get a cell phone for yourself?' Akash asked annoyed, 'I'll buy you!'

'Oh, please, Akash! I need privacy', she chided as she took the landline phone and punched the numbers.

The line got connected as the ring went. Anjali attended the call as she greeted her.

'Ma said you had called this noon', Khushi spoke.

'Yes, I wanted to speak to you about certain things. Are you free? Can you come to my place?' Anjali requested.

Khushi clearly doesn't want to go there and she glanced up at the watch. It was 4 pm already. She got an idea struck. 'Can you come to the park nearby? We can let Bubbly play and talk.' She suggested as casually as possible.

'Yeah, sure, that will be fine. I'll meet you at 5', Anjali said and hung up.

What was so important, Khushi thought. She had never sounded so desperate before. She pressed the 'end' button and began wondering what it was going to be about.

***

After an hour's time with her family, Khushi showered and dressed herself up and strolled towards the park. It was twilight and the whole street was showered with the setting sun rays. It has casted a magical glow over the objects as everything appeared to be dreamy and picture perfect.

Her head was clouded again with suggestions. She tried to shove them aside so as not to trouble her brain anymore regarding it. She decided to face it once it was ready to unfold and not to develop ideas beforehand.

She spotted Anjali sat at a wooden bench with Bubbly beside her. She walked up to them and joined them. Bubbly freed herself from her mother's grip and ran towards the playground as Khushi and Anjali watched her smiling.

It was silent until the ice was broken by Anjali.

'It's been a long since I saw you last' Anjali said and her voice clearly etched sorrow.

'I'm sorry, I was preparing for the exams', Khushi felt immediately guilty as Anjali spoke truly from her heart.

'That's ok. I can't wait for you exams to get over. I want you to come and visit me often as you used to do', Anjali smiled and Khushi felt like heart was melting away with love.

Khushi could not ignore the intrigue as she decided to shoot it, 'Anjali ji, is there anything you want to talk to me about? Because I felt like you gotta ask me something'.

'Yes, I do', Anjali looked straight into her eyes and she felt her heart beat fast with anticipation.

Khushi sent out a silent prayer that it is not about Arnav. But unfortunately, it was.

'Please don't mind me asking this. But I'm in a necessity to do so. As you know, Arnav and I are twins, but my mother had always treated me as if I'm elder than him. And that sorta made him behave to me like a younger brother would do. As a sister, I want him to settle down as a family. I had tried so many times asking him but he had always made me end the topic. I'm afraid if he was reluctant because I'm alone. I think, he's ignoring it all the way for me. But I want to make sure I kept the promise up I made to my mother that I would take care of him.'

Khushi nodded sincerely as she saw the confused soul pouring her mind into her.

'I also don't want to pester him so much into it. But still, I thought I should trigger him to give it a thought. Even some weeks before, I approached him with some photographs of eligible girls, but he didn't even bothered. But, he said he has a girl in mind.'

Khushi's heart almost stopped from beating. She felt something rip her apart as someone snatched her possession from her. She felt disappointed, deceived, and ignored. She mustered up the courage to blink away the tears that are threatening to form and kept swallowing to prevent herself from losing her cool. So, that was it, Khushi thought. She managed a nod.

'Khushi, have you ever noticed Arnav seeing a girl? I know it's completely wrong to ask you. But I don't want to compel Arnav to tell me who was that because he had told me that he would open up when time comes. It's only me who's too curious to know. I'm asking you because, you are his student. You know him at school and… you're the only one I could trust upon. Is the girl from your school?', Anjali held khushi's hands as Khushi sat there stunned.

Khushi's memories reeled back to the incident that happened today. Could it be Lavanya? She felt the earth rotate below her. She composed herself and reminded that Anjali was looking her for some answers. She could not let Anjali know what happened today. Moreover, she doesn't know what Arnav's reaction to it was.

It was better to stay from not only from Arnav but from the whole raizadas it seems, her inner devil told Khushi. She shook her head from being insensitive as she tried to be honest with Anjali. No, that doesn't mean she would ever tell her the Lavanya incident.

'No, Anjali ji, Arnav sir is a gentleman. He never glances up at a girl with any kind of emotions. He is purely professional and he would continue to do so. That girl on his mind should be somewhere from his social life. I guess, it would be better if you ask him straight', Khushi kept her hands on Anjali's and spoke truthfully. She realised she had spoken too much about him than she ever wanted.

But Anjali's face was filled with pride and her face glowed like a mother when she heard about his brother positively. 'I must have thought about it before. How could he find a girl in a college?' she playfully slapped her forehead.

Anjali knew very little about what she had just reinforced.

How could he find a girl in a college?

Khushi again confirmed that it was too wrong for a lecturer to get a girl from a college. After all, he'll be expected to treat his students like a brother or sister. Khushi again felt like the earth is rotating. This time the pace was faster.

'You're right, Khushi, I must have asked him in straight. It'll be better if I keep Mano Aunty with me. It'll be easy to go to the girl's right away. What do you think?'

Khushi could only nod at the moment and that's what she did exactly. It was already dark which means they have to leave soon and Khushi was thankful it was.

Chapter-8

Arnav was too tired that evening. He lazily took steps into his home and dropped himself onto the living room couch. He had to make the farewell party arrangements for the final year students as he was the in charge of the whole event.

He was definitely going to miss his first set of students which included Khushi. They would come for the party after their exams and that's it. They no more had any necessity to visit their college and nothing to do with their professors. That sorta hurt him and it will continue to do so until he gets his own experiences of leaving students. After all it's a part of a teacher's life.

But what he felt was more deep and depressing and it is not quite essential to mention. He shook his head and proceeded to his room to freshen up himself.

When he returned back to fix himself at kitchen, he noticed Anjali being busy on phone which seemed like she was talking to Manorama. She was insisting Manorama to come to their house immediately as they both have some important work to do.

Arnav could not quite guess what was going but he decided to ignore as it could be some ladies stuff like shopping or something else. He squirted the juice into his mouth and sat on the counter. Anjali looked restless as she scurried around the kitchen particularly doing nothing.

'Anjali, are you up to something?' if she appears restless, then it sure gonna end up in tragedy.

Anjali jumped back frightened as she kept hands on her chest, 'Arnav! When did you enter? You scared me!', She threw the spatula she was holding and cried out. It hit him right on the shoulders as he took it in his hands.

'What did I do? You were so engrossed in conversation with your aunt!' He retaliated.

'Oh, shut up, Arnav!' she still panted unable to stop her hitched up breath.

'I better do', he glanced at the spatula in his hands and kept it quietly at the counter.

They both burst out laughing and continued to chat away.

***

Exactly few minutes later, Manorama entered Raizada's place and dashed towards their kitchen upon hearing the noise that the siblings made.

'Hello, hi, bye, bye!' She entered the kitchen with greetings as her face blossomed witnessing the happiness in air.

'Hi, Aunty!' Arnav and Anjali greeted her back in chorus with a wide smile.

'Anjali dear, what do you wanna talk to Arnav about? Why did you asked me to come so fast?' she stepped into the matter straight.

Anjali felt awkward as Arnav looked at her so surprised. She could speak anything to him and the necessity of another person between them surprised him a lot. That does not mean he was not fond of Manorama. She was more like a mother to both of them but Anjali's hesitation disappointed Arnav as Anjali avoided looking him into his eyes.

Anjali required a support with her as she was going to formally take steps towards his marriage. She doesn't wanted to be wrong especially when it comes to her brother's life. Manorama might be loud and playful in her attitude but she thinks sensibly when it comes to their niece and nephew's life. She will be the perfect person to talk into the girl's family whoever Arnav has in his mind. And Anjali could not wait anymore until he blurts it out. Above all, what if he was lying to her to make her not bring the topic up? She will make him speak up today.

'What?' Arnav darted his eyes between Anjali and Manorama, 'What is it about?'

'Arnav…' Anjali hesitated but she wanted to know it today and that thought drove her to choose words, 'Please tell me who is that girl? I'll do my best to bring her into your life'. She came to the point.

Arnav sighed at the question as he pursed his lips and looked down at the floor. He composed his stuttering mind at the unexpected question shot at him and he wondered how he was going to answer her. It was a moment of uncertainty when he told her that he has someone in mind and that hopeful moment has obviously gone now and the question is apparently meaningless to him. He realised both were looking at him and he knew he was being demanded, 'But, what's the hurry?'

'But, what's your problem in opening up that?' Anjali was not going to give up that easily. She glanced over at Manorama which threatened her to speak up.

Manorama nodded her head towards Anjali as she kept her hand on Arnav's shoulder, 'Arnav, you can have your time in developing things between you both. You can at least tell us who is it, right? We'll at least know who is going to be our family'.

'Please understand, Arnav. I have a promise to keep up. But I held patience. You keep delaying and I'm scared. Dad died when he was young. Mom died when she was young. My husband died when he was young. I know this is insane. But what if I die soon too? I can't betray mom's promise', her eyes began to tear up, 'please, Arnav, I'm not asking you to marry immediately. But I'm asking you to tell me who was it. I never saw you talking to any girl and you haven't even mentioned about any female friend to me, and what if you were lying to make me shut up? Or if you have any problem in getting together, I'll do my best to bring you together!' she almost yelled in frustration at her brother's idleness. She looked at Manorama and continued softly, 'I haven't slept since he said he has someone in mind'.

Her sobs were the only noise that filled the kitchen. Nobody had anything else to say as Arnav fought a battle between his mind and heart. He was determined to stay as he was until his fate led him into something. But now it seemed everything go beyond his control and he had no choice. He had an option and he thought he would pick it but now the option does not exist and he knew it's a waste to wait. He made his mind to leave everything to his sister.

Yes, It'd hurt him, but it's not like he cannot move on. Time will heal everything and he wanted to give fate a chance. And he did.

'Anjali', he tunred to look his aunt, 'Aunty, whomever you want me to marry, I'll do as you say'.

'But Arnav, we are not compelling you to marry the person we choose. We are just asking you to tell us-'

'Never mind, aunty. Forget it. It hasn't worked', he admitted.

Manorama and Anjali looked each other with confusion as Anjali kept a hand on Arnav's shoulder.

'I'm fine, Anjali, honestly. I'll be happy with whomever you choose for me', he laughed to make the situation light, 'I know how you'll scrutinise and filter the girls'.

Both the ladies' face broke into a big smile as they began to walk towards the living room to make choices among the available eligible girls. Arnav sat still at the table top not certain about what he believed a moment ago. But deep down in his heart he waited for a miracle to occur.

Meanwhile the ladies have decided on what they had to do.

***

The exams had been over and the only situation that would arrive certainly in future was going to be the party. And, that's all. After that, who knows when they would meet and she had doubts if they would ever meet at all.

Kushi was laid in her bed on her stomach with her head turned sideways and her lips wore a pout. She had thought that she had overcome the notions that were pulling her towards him but she had not. She was falling for him hard and that was dangerous.

That day after her exams she had been waiting for the bus at the stop. The climate was too windy which made her skirt lift up frequently. She had a hard time taming it from flying up and her face was burning from mortification.

A car zoomed past her and she very well knew the owner as she looked at the other direction to avoid the awkwardness of meeting his eyes. But the car reversed to where she was standing and Arnav got out of it as handsome as always. He looked incredibly good looking with his hair tousled by the wind.

He walked over to her and the other girls, who were standing with her there, had their jaws dropped to the surface. She stood there stunned forgetting everything round her and looked into his melting dark coloured orbs that bore into her.

'Get in the car, I'll drop you t home', he spoke and without his intention it affected her.

'I'ts ok, sir,' she looked down, 'I'll go by bus', She kept her hands on skirt clutching it from flying any higher especially in his presence.

He shook his head and clutched her wrist as he led her into the backseat of the car. He sat in his driver seat and drove off. He would have considered about hauling her into the car if he was really in a good mood. But after seeing her in the middle of the road while clutching her fleeting skirt with four or five guys around had really made him go mad. The only courteous that struck his mind was to make her sit backseat.

He drove fast as she fearfully glanced over at him. His fingers were wrapped around the steering wheel and there was a new ring dazzling on his finger. For a brief moment, she wondered if he had gone out with Lavanya where she could have proposed him and slipped the ring. It was conventionally a boy's duty, but her enthusiasm when she asked Khushi to pass the book has resulted Khushi to envision impossible stuffs.

She shook her head wildly at the thought and noticed Arnav looking at her through the mirror. She blinked twice and turned quickly towards the window.

The engine came to a halt outside the ice cream parlour and she looked at Arnav with glaring eyes. He furrowed his eyebrows and excused himself out as he got to buy something for his niece. Once he was out, she slapped her forehead and imagined what would have happened if she had opened her mouth thinking that he'd taken her here on purpose.

She rapped her fingers over her bag impatiently to get herself out of his presence which made her doubt on her determination. She had to be strong after he had apparently shoved her aside. That thought angered her and she for a moment literally, hated Arnav. She looked over for him when his phone rang.

She peeped over it to find that the call was from Lavanya, as the screen displayed, and she slumped back to her seat sulking. It repeatedly rang and she could not hold back her curiosity which defeated her. She readily took the phone and stuck to her ears and waited for her to speak.

'Arnav, may I know why you rejected my proposal to date?' her voice was evidently anger as Khushi's mind jumped with joy.

Her lips broke into a lopsided smile as she clutched the phone to her ear tightly.

'Will you please answer?' her pitch raised as Khushi blinked unable to respond.

She saw Arnav walking in her direction and once he got in, she extended the phone to him. 'Call for you. It rang continuously and so…', she trailed off.

'Oh, thanks', he quickly took it and answered, 'yes, Arnav here?' he spoke as Khushi leaned back comfortably with a triumph smile. She could not figure what has gotten into her that made her behave quite… weird.

He continued to speak, and although it wasn't necessary for her to eavesdrop, she overheard what he answered her.

'Miss. Lavanya, look, I'll speak to you later. Will you pleas-', Khushi figured he was cut off. But he resumed, 'ok, listen, I won't do anything that I wasn't interested. You understand?' he declared and shut the phone. It was obvious that Arnav was demanded to reply and he had to be rude.

A smile was plastered as she appeared to be a fool. Though Arnav could not understand why, he was glad she found happier after that dark incident.

'How was your exam?' he asked her with his eyes fixated to the road.

'I've done well, sir', Khushi replied confidently.

'Good!', he raised an eyebrow in response to the energy he found.

It brought some light into her heart as she felt like she saw the old Arnav for a moment. Her mind rewound the incidents of their earlier rapport and she could not help but compare. Recently, his behaviour towards her was slightly cold and probably it was because he had realised lately that he's being more than a teacher. Now his inquiries about the exams were quite comforting as she found her heart swamp with warmth and care. She imagined how magnificent it would be to have him all the time with her. It irked that it could not be possibly happening and she reminded herself to be away from such insane thoughts.

He glanced over her thought drowned face and he felt quit guilty for his attitude towards her. But it's always his heart that rules his mind. His rational mind kept telling him it was no wrong but his heart kept reinforcing how it all could perhaps end in regret.

He struggled hard to keep his soul in control over her presence. He needed to drop her right there and end this all mental discussion that destroyed his peace.

He pulled over to her house and opened the door for her. Her eyes followed every action of him towards her and she immediately started to miss him. It had gone beyond the control and this car ride had proven her she could not escape herself from imagining stuffs like they were a couple already.

He handed her a pack from the ice cream parlour and drove off. Khushi unable to believe that she was bought ice cream from Arnav starred at the package. Few minutes before, she was furious with the thought that he had taken her to a location personally but now he had handed her something which has a personal gesture to it but she felt no anger instead she found fondness.

She entered her house to find Manorama talking to her mother and brother. She looked back at the entrance suspiciously and strolled towards them convinced. Their conversation flowed for some time and Manor

'So, Khushi, exams are over it seems. What have you planned to do next?' manorama asked biting a cookie.

Khushi shrugged. 'Whatever mom says. Job or higher studies…', she trailed off.

'What about marriage?' she prodded.

'Well, if that's what both of them prefer,' Khushi waved her hand to Akash and Garima, 'I might give a thought to it.'

'How about marrying my nephew?'

Khushi stiffened, 'Pardon me?'

'You heard me, Khushi. Would you like to marry my nephew, Arnav?'

Khushi felt that her breathe had stopped but she had to respond though. 'Ha, aunty, Please!' she laughed lightly to avoid everyone starring at her with a smirk, 'I said I might give a thought but Arnav sir? No way!'

Everyone laughed at the reaction and no one noticed that Khushi's eyes which turned moist after she had extricated from the shock.

'Did you see her face? She turned pale!' Akash guffawed.

'Yes!' Manorama joined Akash, 'Actually we're looking for a girl seriously', She looked at Garima and confessed.

'Yeah, when kids reach an age, things has to be done accordingly', Garima supported.

Khushi excused herself to her room with a reason to freshen her and sped off.

Once Manorama left, Garima told Akash with a sigh, 'I wish she had asked seriously. Arnav will be a perfect match'.

Khushi in her room closed her eyes tightly and tried comforting her heart that raced in miles of speed. She wept silently cursing her fate which erupted hopes like bubbles and when she attempts to feel them, it'd be pricked and gone. She would be completely fine until something happens as such that teases her patience and tolerance. She was tired and furious as she entwined her fingers tightly.

She envisioned his face before her and smiled sadly thinking about his lopsided smile.

How she wished what Manorama asked was actually serious!

Chapter-9

Arnav was getting ready to the college. The exams were over and there are going to be no classes until the college re opens but today it was the farewell party of the final year students. He had some last time arrangements to be done as final touch as he hurried his departure.

He had not felt hungry to make himself seated and eat the food. He simply skipped and went in the kitchen to grab some fruit juice which would give him energy to scurry around the premises where the party is thrown.

He strode towards the kitchen to see his aunt and sister sitting closely in the dining table discussing something in serious tone. He shook his head at their dramatics and took the tetra pack from the fridge door only to hear them speak about Khushi.

He was enthralled and quite appalled at the topic and he tuned up his ear a bit sharper to eavesdrop on what the matter could be. Usually him being the gentlemen he would never involve himself into indecent stuffs but when it is about Khushi, he forgets what he was.

'I haven't expected a 'no' from her', Anjali spoke disappointed.

'Don't be disheartened. The mistake is mine too. I didn't imply it in a serious tone. With the whole family sitting across me, I could only make it sound like a joke', Manorama pouted. 'Besides, Akash guffawed and made it even less serious.'

Anjali nodded as Manorama kept a hand on her hand and squeezed it assuring.

'Do not worry, Anjali. If they were meant to be together, they would'.

'I just hoped, that's all. After all, she'd be perfect for him. Khushi was the one who immediately crossed my mind when Arnav said things didn't work out with the person he wanted to be with.'

'I don't have to explain. You very well know how I enthused I was to see them together at Taj. They were wonderful together', Manorama added.

The ladies sighed and their shoulders were slumped and it was the right time for Arnav to take charge of the conversation. So, he did.

'What are you both talking about?' Arnav poked in his nose unable to control the urge to know what had happened.

They both looked at him with a pouted face not knowing whether to tell him or not.

'I just asked what was it about?' He was not angry, but he was tired of the surprises which led to nowhere.

'I asked aunty to ask for Khushi's hands for you', Anjali blurted.

'Then?' his forehead creased to intimate the seriousness after the surge of shock calmed down.

'Khushi had said…', she glanced her aunt and retreated to Arnav, ' that she was not interested.' Anjali knew she should not have said that and quickly added in, 'that was obviously because you were her teacher. If not, she would have agreed. In fact she had spoken so well about you to me.'

Arnav wasn't surprised about the denial. But it hurt him. His forehead took back the creases as he realised what had happened. Whatever in the sense Manorama had implied, it was rejected. She might have liked him as a teacher but it was reassured that she wasn't as a girl. He thanked God for not approaching her at any situation. His appetite was now completely gone as he placed the tetra pack at the counter.

'Alright, I'll be back by night', he said softly, grabbed the keys from the holder and dashed off.

***

Khushi on the other hand didn't want to attend the party at all. She replayed the incident that happened after she entered the home once Arnav dropped her.

She wondered why in the world would Manorama had to ask her that. But she had no clue and she had made up her mind it was only to bait her. She was always loud and witty and this was one of her wits. A painful wit.

Never in the world, had Khushi thought that would she be in a situation to say 'no' to Arnav. She felt guilty for disgustingly lying over her feelings and her mind called her a 'betrayer' since that moment. How could she agree for it when she already knew that Arnav has someone in her mind? She wanted Arnav to get what he wanted even if it is exposing her feeling to eradication. She was informed that by his own sister and there was no way Anjali was lying to her. May be Manorama was adamant that he should marry someone of their interest. Khushi wanted to do a favour to him at least for giving her the warmth she had never had before. It pricked her heart to sting, but she had no choice.

She glanced at the Salwar Kameez suit she had selected to wear it out today for the party. It was black and grey with silver sequences piped along the borders. The black had clearly resembled her mood and the silver sequence spoke aloud about her immature excitement of seeing him. She grudgingly took the hanger out and threw the suit on herself.

***

The party has begun and the speeches were made by different professors on life. The students became emotional by then and now it was much better in mood. The sorrow has evaporated and the students were rejoicing over their farewell. The tradition of the farewell was to be sad, but the overgrown technology has reformed the tradition. After all, anyone can contact anyone whenever they want now with the inventions of centuries.

Arnav was too busy until the program started and once it was in action, he relaxed down. Things were going smooth just as he wanted to be and he was appreciated for his job on this. Meanwhile, Khushi was sitting alone in a lonely chair that was far away from people's interference which seemed that she was clearly not interested.

She had not spoken to anyone after the day when she was accused to be in an affair with Arnav. She would attend her classes and mind her own business and would leave the place once the bell rings. Many of her mates came apologising but she didn't even glanced over them and plainly stated that she could forget what happened but she would never forgive what they did to her. They were still guilty and its level increased when she had ignored all of them and chose to sit in an isolated chair.

She kept fiddling her dupatta in impatience to get home as soon as possible. She didn't pay any attention until Arnav got hold of the mike to make his speech. Her heart rattled with over speeding beats.

'Good evening, my friends. Hope you all are enjoying your final day here together at college. I don't want to take much time of yours which you obviously want to spend with your friends as students. I have a small advice to tell you. You can either take it as an advice or guidance or whatever perception it may be', he shrugged casually which made the girls drool and few of them took pictures with their cameras as he continued, 'which is, to make your life less complicated. If you want to tell something, just say. If you want to apologise, then apologise. If you want to thank someone, just thank them. You don't have to muster everything inside your little hearts and explode it.'

He looked straight into Khushi's eyes as he spoke from the stage which made Khushi stop the process of breathing, 'Just let it all out. This advice is more to me which I'm yet to implement'.

The crowd cheered over his honest admission and Khushi's hands automatically applauded in unison to the crowd. Neither of them broke their eye lock for a brief moment and it was Arnav who broke the spell casted over them even if it is only for few seconds.

He continued, 'I'll end my boredom here, and hope you all enjoy the evening. Thank you!'

The cram hooted and clapped again with loud noises showing him how the small address was worth the time.

He walked down the stage and Khushi's eyes had not left him even for a second throughout. She smiled sadly to herself over her feelings and how strong they got instead of losing their power.

Soon, the students began to party with blaring music and with the grand assortment of food that was served. Khushi was not in a mood to join anyone though she had acquaintances apart from her class mates. She took a drink and sat over the stool and watched the things happening around.

Arnav who had spotted Khushi studied her with intensity. Her black dress which spoke the simplicity and dignity adorned her fair skin which had tints of pink on her cheeks. She naturally had that glow which made her look like an angel. Her untied shoulder length hair framed her face with a perfectly placed fringe, complimenting her skin colour and hair colour. She attracted in a specific way that Arnav could not figure.

Her dark brown orbs which always had a spark, held a fleck of sadness that pulled his attention to her deeply. They were fixated at the object in her hand indicating that she was mentally absent. He saw her seated all alone with a glass of drink in her hand which was still full. Before he realised, he walked towards her direction.

'Hey, Khushi', he smiled genuinely when she had sensed someone's presence near her before she looked up.

'Hello, sir' she quickly stood up from her seat and greeted back.

He pulled a stool near her and signalled her to be seated while he joined her with his perch.

It was a slow and hesitant moment for both of them unable to know how to strike a conversation. Arnav doesn't want her to feel lonely which made him walk up to her despite the fact that they were in a college as a… teacher and a student. Khushi knew that he is with her right now only to drive away her loneliness and she badly wanted to break the ice of awkwardness but she just didn't know how.

'So, what are your plans for future?' he asked concerned with a concentration that made her feel proud of herself. She saw how elated her mind was to have his attention to her. She also noticed how girls around them groaned at the sight.

'Well, I have plans to work, sir. But I also want to study. Let's see', she replied politely.

He nodded at the reply. 'Do what your mind says', he pointed to his temple.

She was able only to nod and force a smile. Even his small gestures attracted her badly that she found herself affected by his every movement.

'You don't like parties?' he inquired noticing her not indulged to her atmosphere.

'Erm… It depends, sir. This party is not my type'.

He raised his eyebrows teasingly as he saw her, 'is it?'

'Yes…', she trailed off confused at why he was reacting and it immediately struck her that it was his idea to celebrate it in that style. Her eyes grew larger in realisation as she admitted, 'I mean, I'm sorry. I meant to say I'm not into loud music'.

He threw his head back and laughed which stunned Khushi in awe. She stared at him as he composed himself. They both were surprised at how the conversation flowed easily after everything that had happened between them. It was as if they had just gotten to know each other better.

'I guess, our rapport as a teacher and as a student ends here. Isn't it?' he spoke as a matter of fact once he was out of her cuteness he experienced. He felt the moment pure and pleasurable. He wanted it to continue and he never in his dreams thought that he would attempt for it. But he did.

'Uh, yes', she anticipated what was coming further.

'I wish we continue to be friends hereafter', he didn't thought he would talk about this to her but he could not help it when he sat with her. He wanted to let himself out to her at least to a certain extent even if it is not in whole.

She stiffened at the admission as she sharpened her ears.

'Yes, I want to be friends with you. I have always noticed you being so nice and I used to wonder how it would be to have a friend like you. But since I was your teacher, I don't know how comfortable you would be with me. But now, as I'm not your teacher anymore, I wanted to tell this to you and know your opinion', Arnav has not practised or anything, but it came out in a good flow and he didn't felt bad about venting it all out.

Arnav saw Khushi's mouth which was slightly open with surprise. She had not expected it coming and she had never even envisioned such situation occurring. Arnav raised his eyebrows to indicate that he was waiting and Khushi instantly snapped herself out of the trance.

'Yeah, yes, sure, sir', Khushi smiled which reached her eyes.

Arnav flashed a smile brightly as he propped his elbow on his thighs which made him look more appealing. She again fell in studying his posture and felt a tug realising he is not for her. But she consoled her saying they were friends now, which was much better than not being together at all.

When Arnav was about to ask her something, he was called by the Principal to sort out some issue. He excused himself from her with a brightly lit face and that wave passed into Khushi which made her happy in return. She kept smiling and looked around to gain the jealous arrows of girls.

Minutes passed and it was almost half an hour as Khushi felt too bored. She looked around to find her 'friend' at least whose presence would entertain her but he was nowhere in vicinity.

She supported herself by leaning on to the counter beside her with her head resting on her palm. Her lips wore a pout which spoke loud about her boredom. Arnav saw her at once he entered the hall back from the Principal's cabin. He was allowed to go home as he came too early to look after the arrangements.

He went and sat again next to her as Khushi straightened herself from her casual pose.

'What's up?' he asked smiling.

'I wanna go home, sir' she said clearly lazy.

'I'm free to go home too'.

'I see'.

'You want to go home or you want to just escape from this place?'

'Anything to get out of here'.

They both laughed as he stood up. He signalled her to stand up and led her out of the crowd to the parking lot. He opened the door to make her sit in front and he placed himself in his driving seat and drove off. She didn't know where he took her but she trusted him.

He pulled over to a road and stopped the engine. She looked around to find the road completely deserted and it was dark as it was past the evening.

'When should you be in home?' he asked to make sure she had time.

'My curfew is 9 pm', she replied wondering why he took her here.

'We have two hours. Come with me'.

He led her out and they walked past into the side of the road which took them to a small forest. It had no lights and was completely dark. She stumbled slightly when she stepped on a root and Arnav immediately stopped and held her by her shoulders. They resumed walking as he occasionally asked if she's doing fine.

When they walked deeper and deeper into the woods Khushi could not help but be frightened. She doesn't know which way they entered and where it would lead. She didn't have the courage to question him as it might lead to a wrong impression. She heard noises of some animals and her fear increased.

She hesitantly held Arnav's hands and he automatically clutched it tight while walking. She didn't even know whether he realised their physical contact.

Arnav was excited at the privacy they were sharing. She had trusted in him and came with him for which he had to return the favour. He had a private place in his mind which he thought would rob Khushi's heart. He wanted to share it with her and spend some time alone in that favourite place of his which he believed to be Khushi's favourite too in few minutes.

While they approached the step, Khushi heard the rush of waterfall and she wondered whether their town had a waterfall first of all. Arnav stopped her, went behind her and closed her eyes with his palm which made Khushi's stomach knock up with tingling feel. She didn't protest but she could not explain the feel she felt when they walked too close while he led her forward. They occasionally bumped because she could not see and also because his step was larger than hers.

He smiled when he felt her eyelashes flutter against his palm as he led her. When he retrieved his hands back and when she opened her eyes, it was a special sight for her to see. He stepped forward to see her reaction as his mind recorded every moment frame by frame.

Though their situations declared that they were incapable of being together, their mind doesn't seemed to accept the fact. They somehow fell into the places beside each other no matter how they tried hard to keep them apart.

Chapter-10

Khushi opened her eyes slowly, to see Arnav go in front of her, to look at her face. She smiled at him and tried to look past him. That is why they were there, right?

Her eyes widened in shock as she eyed the scene before her. She was astonished to look at the place as she had not even in her imagination thought that there would be a beautiful place like that.

It was a small clearing of the forest that shone under the full moon light. It was quite bright and she could see every corner of the location clearly. A tall waterfall flowed opposite to them which took turns and ran as a small river by their feet. The other parts were completely covered with the carpet of thick lush green grass and there were rocks at the sides of the river which adorned the stream.

The wind whizzed past them which was cool and it smelt fresh along with the nature. There was nothing except trees around them as he took her hand and led to a rock. She didn't even bother to notice where he took her as her eyes were fixated at the waterfall which appeared like a melted flow of silver.

Arnav made her seated at the rock and sat beside her as they together watched the moon. Khushi noticed the river water being crystal clear and gasped. She could even see the surface of the mud under the water. The water reflected them off along with the full moon above their head.

She tugged his arms lightly unable to speak anything to call him. 'Did you see how clear the water is?'

He smiled at her innocence and kept his other hand over her hands, which rested at his arms. 'I know.'

They sat close as they both looked forward not realising the proximity. The place was so chill and the water from the fall slightly drizzled over them which made both of them slightly wet and instantly khushi's arms formed goose bumps.

He sensed her tremble. 'Are you cold?'

She jerked her eyes to him and admitted, 'Yes, but that's fine'.

He noticed her hair almost drenched out due to the drizzles of waterfall. Water droplets travelled from her forehead to her brows, where they disappeared and again emerged down to her eyelashes. She seemed to be lost into the environment as he lightly caressed her lashes with thumbs to stop the water from getting into her eyes.

She felt tickled with his touch near her lids and realised there water droplets in his hands. They exchanged a smile and the reality struck them making them see how close they were. She drew her hands back hesitantly as Arnav felt the loss of the touch. It tugged him lightly somewhere as he brushed them off and turned away.

That is when Khushi sensed the curiosity being stirred in her. He was here sitting with her but he had told Anjali that he had someone else in mind. His actions kind of surprised her because they were too intense and it all felt all too personal. Why a lecturer wants to share his favourite location to a student? Besides, to Khushi, she was only a normal looking girl.

She turned to look at him who was looking far into the forest, brooding. She bit her lower lip not able to control her tongue.

'Can I ask you something?' she blurted.

Arnav turned in reflex which terrified her as she began to stammer.

'Umm, since you said we are friends, can I ask you something?'

'Yes, of course!'

'Erm.. Who is the girl?' she squinted her eyes which meant she didn't wanted to ask at all.

He got the hint, but he knew this moment could be converted into something else. 'Which girl?'

'The one in your mind?' she raised her index finger on air and pointed somewhere up.

He laughed and the laugh was full of life as she stared at him in awe. She forgot blink her eyes until he stopped laughing and looked straight into her eyes. It was as if he was scanning her mind and reading her.

'First, I have a question to ask you', he said.

She furrowed her brows. 'Yes?'

He looked down at his palms and asked. 'Why did you reject me?'

'Sir?'

'Manorama aunty came and asked for your hands, right?' he looked at her as she nodded. 'Why did you reject me?'

'Sir.. That was because', she bent her head down unable to meet his eyes. 'Anjali di told me one day that you preferred someone else', she raised her eyes to look him and questioned, 'When you have already known she was going to ask me, why you didn't stop her?'

'Again, answer me first, why did you ignore her proposal?'

'It was because I wanted to do a favour for you. When I know you're interested in someone else, how can I go and agree? I wanted you to have whom you actually wanted to spend your life with', she didn't understand why Arnav was suddenly acting so dense.

'So, if you had not known there was a girl already, would have you agreed?'

The question was too direct and Khushi felt her throat going dry. 'Sir, that is.. I think, I would have.. agree-, I mean I would have asked my family'.

Arnav was sure he heard the word, 'agreed'. But he was not sure if she had really meant. Before all, he wanted to clear her mind first.

'You have answers, Khushi. But you have clearly failed to put them together into a piece. You have known what's happening around but you have still failed', he didn't know if it was correct to explain her everything. But he felt the moment appropriate. He felt like venting all out. It's time to arrange things. After all, a sparkle of hope seemed to be lightened.

Arnav being unaware of her sister's disclose to Khushi and his Aunt's approach to her family, had gotten the picture finally. But Khushi being aware of Arnav's interest, Anjali's disclose and Aunt's approach could not connect the reality. It was time for her to know who was actually dense.

She looked confused as Arnav took a deep breath and began to explain her. 'Firstly, I haven't stopped Aunty because I never knew she would come and ask. Besides, I also don't know when Anjali told you all this. Secondly, to answer you first question, the girl was…', he trailed off drowning into her pool like orbs.

'The girl was?' Khushi whispered and ushered.

'The girl was... you!' he pointed his index finger at her with sharp eyes.

Khushi felt like she had been knocked out of air. Her forehead creases subsided in realisation as she averted her eyes to the water fall. Arnav wasn't sure how she felt at the admission but he prayed that she doesn't take him wrong. It suddenly hit him hard that he had brought her to an isolated place which might scare her. He felt what a bad idea it was to bring her there.

After his confession, he just didn't know in what perception she was going to look him at. He decided to break the ice. 'If you want to leav-'

He was cut off by her words, 'I made a mistake'.

He heard her words but he was just not sure what she spoke and why she spoke. 'Pardon me?'

She turned at looked at his eyes, 'I said I made a mistake. I thought Aunt was making fun. I also didn't want to consider it really because I thought you were with someone.' Her eyes shimmered slightly, 'I never knew I was the one'.

Arnav was too shocked to respond anything as his lips slowly curved into a smile. His mind delayed in syncing the words but his lips had known what she meant.

'Which means?' he asked with a profound confidence and happiness.

Khushi had not planned to expose her mind so soon to him. But it had all occurred. She felt things are falling into right places leaving her no option to take. She had to tell him at least now to end her agony. To end her loneliness. Her moments with him kept telling her how incomplete she was, when she thought he was not meant for her.

She took a breath and confessed, 'I.. Love you! I did, I do an always will!'.

The words crashed his senses and within a second his hands wound around her waist, pulled her closer which made their lips inch closer. She kept her hands on his chest, to steady herself, in response to the sudden shift which made her stagger. She was engulfed by him and she saw her dreams coming true, at last.

She looked up at his eyes expectantly as he understood what she needed. Her look begged him to assure her. He remembered how she had made him go crazy with her presence and how she made him restless. It was all nothing but… Love.

'I love you too, Khushi'. He whispered them against her lips which made her eyelids automatically shut.

She lived the moment to its fullest, in his arms and in his warmth. She felt secured in his chest and more than all, he had just uttered the words that made her fall completely to him.

Arnav adored the cute, petite face which was now too close to his. Her flushed cheeks made her face glow brighter. And he knew it was the moment. It was the moment he needed to show how much he had loved her since their first meeting at the bus stop until the second ago.

He brought his lips to her forehead and placed a seal of promise that replicated what he had held these days within him. The moment was emotional and overwhelming to both of them since they had suppressed their feelings too long. When he retreated back, he saw bliss in her eyes, which was much purer than the water running below them.

They together watched the moon above them with a wide smile plastered on both of their faces. Khushi had never in her life felt so protected and loved. She wondered how life gifts people with surprises. What she envisioned on the day when she met him first had come true now which was beyond to her belief. Meanwhile, Arnav was too proud of himself at owning her to himself. She was the most prized possession for him and when he realised she was in his arms, he could not ask for more.

Arnav looked down at Khushi who had rested her head in his chest, and his mind replayed the vow he made when he dropped her off after their dinner.

Kushi was not easy because, she was amazing… If she was that amazing, well, it's not going to be easy. He promised his heart to make the amazing, his'.

And, he did.