~IPKKND Anniversary Special OS~ Vote now!

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

Here, we are back with the voting round of the most amazing contest we have had the IPKKND 2nd Anniversary Special OS Contest. 😊

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

Please read through all the entries (In the 3 posts below) before you choose your best 3.

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

Rules:

You must ONLY vote for 3 entries.

Vote for those entries ONLY who can represent Ipkknd the best way!

Avoid multiple voting from different accounts - we will find out if you do create an MID to vote.

Avoid any type of advertising for this round, if we happen to find out then your entry will be disqualified right away without any questions.

You must not vote for your own entry because if you do, your vote won't be counted.

If you vote for more than 3 entries, then only the first 3 will be counted and the rest will be ignored.

Last date to vote is: 1st June 2013.

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

So, let's get going guys! 😎

Just a small note: The voting for the IPKKND Anniversary Special Avatar and Signature contest is taking place in the Development Team forum. It's just to fasten the pace of the process and to not burden the members with having to judge so many things at the same time.

Alina and the IPKKND Development Team.

Entry #1

MEMORIES

'Let's go to Lucknow!' said Aarav at the dining table. Everybody looked up startled. 'What, exclaimed Arnav. 'Yes Dad. I've just 15 days holidays left before my school reopens. Nani keeps talking about Lucknow, why don't we make a visit?' Khushi and Arnav looked at each other. Khushi noticed some uneasiness in Arnav's eyes.

Things had settled down for a while. Babuji had recovered, he was now able to speak and walk for short distances with the help of a stick. He was able to expose all of Shyam's untold evils which resulted in Shyam getting life imprisonment. Amma, Babuji and Buaji returned back to their home in Lucknow. Anjali Di was happily married to her second husband who was a reputed businessman in London. Arnav had made sure to carry out all inquiries about him before the marriage. Though he missed his Di very much, Arnav was satisfied that his Di was finally with a good man. Akash's project in the US was a success and Akash and Payal were returning back next month. NK had gone back to Sydney to assist his father in business.

All of Arnav's problems seemed to have been sorted out. But, when Aarav suggested Lucknow, he had an unsettling feeling. With Aarav insisting on making the visit, and Nani too supporting him, Arnav had to give in. Aarav became excited and hugged his Dad, but Arnav felt a certain fear lingering in his heart.

After arriving in Lucknow, the Raizada family made its way into Gomti Sadan, the Gupta home in Lucknow. Arnav and Khushi had not been to the town since the release of the video tapes to the media. So, it was a weird feeling for both of them. After the initial hospitalities by the Gupta family, the Raizadas proceeded towards Sheesh Mahal. Sheesh Mahal was under the care of a trustee for its maintenance. As soon as they neared it, Aarav couldn't believe his eyes at the sight of the huge palatial house. He along with Nani and Khushi made a tour of the bungalow with the help of a guide. Arnav wandered about stealthily until they came back. He was lost in his memories when he heard the happy voices of his family. 'Dad, this is so big. Is this really ours?' exclaimed Aarav. Arnav nodded amused at the little boy's wonder. In the evening, as they made their way back to Gomti Sadan, Arnav had a slight smile on his face and the fear in his eyes was nowhere to be seen.

After dinner, when Aarav was put to sleep, Arnav asked Khushi to come outside. When she came out, she saw Arnav sitting on her old scooter with her helmet on. The sight made her laugh out so loudly, annoying Mr. ASR a bit. 'What's so funny? I want to show you something. So, just come and sit.' Khushi, knowing her husband quite well by now, decided to not say anything and sat down on the pillion behind Arnav. As they neared their destination, Khushi realised that they were going to Sheesh Mahal. It was decorated with colourful lights, just as it was on the day of their first meeting. Arnav got down from the scooter, lifted his wife in his arms and carried her inside. 'Arnavji, what are you doing? Put me down.' said a flustered Khushi. 'Sshhh…' was the reply. He took her to the area where Khushi had fallen into his arms the first time they met. Arnav gently put Khushi down and asked her if she remembered the place. She looked around and nodded with a shy smile.

'Khushi, when we were coming here early today, I was afraid that all those memories which used to haunt me night and day for so many years, would return if I visited this place. I was not ready to come here. But, Aarav was so eager, that I couldn't refuse. Khushi, as I was walking around the house, I remembered all the happy memories that I had spent here. So many memories which were dear to me came back to me. Memories of that fateful day also were there, but it didn't hurt as much as it used to. And then, when I came here, I remembered our first meeting. That was the day you had entered my life and my thoughts. That moment became the biggest memory of my life. And I will never ever forget that. Happy Anniversary Khushi, exactly two years back on this day I found my life, you.'

He handed over a gift box to her. As soon as she opened it, she found a beautiful pearl set – a necklace and a set of danglers. Those pearls brought back memories of that day and she smiled. She hugged her Arnavji affectionately. Arnav continued, 'Thank you for coming into my life, Khushi'. 'You mean falling?' giggled Khushi. Arnav smirked, 'Of course, and you are an expert in falling'. 'And you in holding me, like always', smiled Khushi. 'Yes hamesha' agreed Arnav.

Still hugging, Arnav gestured her to look up at the sky. As Khushi looked up, she saw fireworks adorn the beautiful night sky. 'Oh, Arnavji, this is so beautiful, thank you', that was the reaction of an exhilarated Khushi. Arnav was entranced as he kept looking at Khushi who was smiling and giggling away. He was finally at peace.

Entry #2

Arnav Singh Raizada.

The nameplate on the door was a clear indication as to who the cabin belonged to.

The name was a familiar one, but she couldn't recollect why.

Taking her single-page resume in one hand, courage in the other and a confident smile on her lips, she entered the door that was held open to her by a bespectacled man who smiled politely at her before he left.

"Good morning, Sir! I have come for the job interview." Khushi started.

And we know what happens when Khushi starts. She can't stop.

So, without waiting for the man in front of her to turn and even look at her, she continued," Sir, I have heard a lot a bout your company. I have come all the way from Lucknow hoping I would get a job somewhere but I have been struggling with the interviews. It is so kind of you to offer me a job on the basis of Shyamji's recommendation alone! I will not disappoint y.. YOU?"

The latter exclamation burst forth when she finally saw the face of her would-be boss. That is if he hired her. She knew he wouldn't. Because it was the same man she had met at Sheesh Mahal. The same arrogant, ruthless, manner less tyrant she had faced, and barely come back in one piece.

Of course, what she didn't realise was that she was thinking aloud.

"What the ..? Miss whoever you are, how dare you come to my office and insult me!!", Arnav Singh Raizada stood towering over her petite frame. And looking at her shaking features, he recognized her.

"Wait.. YOU! What are you doing here? No way, are YOU the one jijaji recommended for the post of my assistant? MY assistant??!!", Arnav bellowed.

In the office below, people stopped working and looked up to the glass cabin of their boss. Half of them were already in sympathy of the poor female who was at the receiving end of his anger, while the rest were plain amused. Well, that's Delhi for you.

"What do you mean by that, huh? Do you think I am not worthy of this job? I think this job is not worthy of me! I REJECT this job!" Khushi countered back.

Arnav was momentarily stumped. She answered back. Wow. Her Shyamji..his jijai..forgotten in all of this.

Khushi, meanwhile, would have bitten off her tongue right there if she could. Hai Devi Maiyya! What have I done? I need this job and the money that will come in! Shyamji has gone to great lengths to secure this interview, and here I am ruining all, if any, chances of getting the job! But how do I work alongside him? He is a devil in suit and boots. What if he eats me?

Again, she thought the last part out loud.

And this time around, Arnav couldn't hold on to his temper.

He took hold of her arm, and jerked her behind him to the door of the cabin. Her resume landed somewhere beneath them, her courage had already taken a flight. Her smile, had been transferred to the office workers looking up at them.

"Listen Miss.. whatever your name is.." Arnav began..

Khushi cut in before he could say anything else, "Khushi Kumari Gupta."

"WHAT THE..?", Arnav was furious. Not only was this girl insolent, but she was giving back as good as she got!

"Khushi Kumari Gupta, Sir. That's my name.", Khushi answered in a smaller voice, having realised her predicament.

"Now you listen Miss Gupta. And listen carefully. Be prepared to face the consequences of angering me. You want a job? Let me see who gives you one. And you can go ahead and call me names. But do that outside the office. GET. OUT.", Arnav's voice rose on the last two words. Till then, he had been talking in a soothing voice.

Ummm.. as soothing as a snake's hiss, right before it bites you. You know?

At the same time, the bespectacled man Khushi had met just 4 minutes back came up the stairs, oblivious to the tense atmosphere around the main cabin.

"Bhai, I have typed the..", Akash stopped in mid-sentence, as he saw Arnav hold a beautiful girl's hand and practically pulling her to himself. She was the one I had helped enter the cabin, right? Well, it seems Bhai is smitten.

Misunderstanding the whole situation, Akash smiled and brought forward the appointment conformation letter. "Well, bhai, I think.. Khushiji should go and meet Aman right now." He checked her name on the letter. Arnav had already appointed her to the post before having met her. After all, it wasn't everyday that his Jijaji recommended people.

He was regretting his decision now.

Akash turned to Khushi, and addressed her, "Khushiji, welcome to the office. I am Akash Singh Raizada, co-owner of the AR Group of Companies. But please call me Akash." You might soon be calling me dewarji if I can play this correctly!

Khushi was shocked.

One moment she felt as if she would be dead, the next moment she felt as if she had been saved.

But was she really safe? Or had she invited trouble?

Swinging her head back and forth between the two brothers (How can they be brothers, they are so different! Khushi though) she caught on to their silent exchange.

The result was that she had a job.

Yeah, not the best job in the world.

She would probably go crazy soon.

And Arnav would go mad too.

But she had a job.

Thanking her Devi Maiyya, she shook her arm out of Arnav's grasp, smiled at Akash, thanked him and rushed down the stairs without sparing a single glance at her other new Boss.

Arnav was furious, but knew that he couldn't make a wrong move in front of his staff. he would wait for his turn.

And thus, began the love story that drives ALL OF US crazy even today!

Entry #3

Will u be my pillow??

Arnav was gazing at the gorgeous looking girl beside him as she was enjoying the movie..He has to do it today otherwise nani,buaji,sashi uncle and garima aunty said they will search someother guy for khushi..He really couldnot understand how come he cannot make up the courage to propose this girl who was his brother's salli..

First time they met was during Akash payal's sangeet..Khushi was in London and returned directly for the sangeet .It was a love at first sight for Arnav..Eventually being one family ,Arshi became close friends and all the elders came to know that Arnav Is deeply in love with khushi..Its been 2 years they are waiting for him to propse her but poor guy couldn't do this alone..

Signing the deal for crores doesn't seem to be a big thing but this one seemed to be…It was Khushi's b'day today and all the elders has warned him to propose her or to forget her.

"Arnav Chaliye?"

"Oh ya khushi..Did you liked the movie?" he realized the movie was over..

"Ya I loved it but why all the movies have same proposing techniques .Arnav couldn't they be unique..Something which make everygirl go jelly on her knees.." She said with a dreamy look..Arnav who was to takeout the ring from his packet pushed it again inside with a sigh…

They soon got into the car from the theatre and was moving towards their houses..When Khushi reached GM she got down and said " Thanks for the perfect day Arnav...Now don't be late fr my b'day party" he smiled and nodded a yes ..

"Buddhu today also he didn't propose me..LG..Its been two years and he didn't propose me yet" khushi whispered angrily and went inside GM..

He drove back to RM..Everyone was waiting for him in the living room..

"HHBB Arnav bitwa propsejd Khushi" mami asked with mamji tailing her behind..

He just shook his head for a no and sat beside the young couples of the house who was looking at him expectedly..

"Chottey didn't propse khushi today also madhumati ji" nani who was talking in phone telecasted the news to Gupta's..

"Baehhh" even Lakshmiji was angry on Arnav..

The elders heaved a sigh and went inside.

"She wants a Unique proposal?What am Suppose to do"Arnav said exasperated..

"That's not a big deal for you bhai..You know ways to crack up a hard shell"

"You only helped us to propose Salisahib. So think of a good way.."

Akash and shyam in the pretext of helping Arnav let out the secret..

"Is it true that it was not ur idea of propsing me"Anjali and payal roared together.

Arnav gave them a YOU ARE GONE look and went to his room..He sat on his bed pulling up his pillow squeeezing it and started thinking deeply.."Unique way.."After a deep thought he decided what has to be done and started for the party..

All the raizda's entered the GH and was greeted by them..When Arnav entered they gave a disappointed look..

Arnav shoved it and searched for his angel..She ascended the stairs in a beautiful lavender choli and Arnav was stunned to look at her.She was looking ethereal..She smiled acknowleding him..Soon the party started in a full swing..Its time for gifting b'day baby.Everyone from RM gifted khushi and its Arnav's turn..

He went toward her khushi was smiling at him.The whole hall was entirely silent..As he gone near her ,breath caught in her throart..He eyed a servant and soon he brought a full size mirror..Arnav took khushi towards the mirror by her shoulders and stood behind her and gave a gift and eyed her to open it..

When she opened the gift she was confused to see a red heart shape fluffy pillow..

Arnav voice fanned her ears "Will you be pillow?"

"Uh?" Khushi looks his eyes through the mirror..

"Khushi will you be my pillow forever???..

My pillow has seen my every side my happiness,sadness,confusions,lonliness everything..

When am happy I'll hug it

When am sad I'll wet it with my tears

When am lonely it acts as a shoulder for me

When I miss mumma it will become my mumma's lap..

I wish u to replace my pillow..

Will u do the honour? "

Khushi's eyes welled up all that she could manage was a nod..

Arnav hugged her from behind and opened the pillow which she was holding to reveal a beautiful ring..

"look at my eyes khuhsi I want to look at urs..Thus seeing each others image on the mirror and with everyone applause Arnav made Khuhsi wear the engagement ring..

When they turned around Anju shyam payal akash squeezed them in a group hug..

All the elders were happy that atlast their Arnav had confessed his love for khushi and there is gonna be a marriage soon..Music was on and the couples attacked the dance floor..Khushi was all shy ..She was leaning on him while Arnav's hands was around her keeping her close to him and they were gently swaying to the music..

"it took you 2 yrs to confess?"Khushi complained

"Aww meri baby what to do ..Am having that ring with me for two years but atlast today only I got the guts to propse you.."

"For two years??"She asked unbelivably

"Ya..Achaa now say me how was the proposal??Was it unique?"

She looked at him in his eyes and said "The best way to make a girl go week on her kness.."

"Am honoured..Waise there is one more point I didn't add to the proposal?"

"What was it Arnav?"

"You know my pillow will always be in my bed..And since u accepted to be my pillow you should also be there in my bed" Arnav said with a guttery smile..

Khushi became beet red hearing this and hidden herself in his chest..He somehow cornered her and was about to place his lips on her when his mobile rang..

"Aman Calling"

He for once ignored his call and placed his lips on hers.

Entry #4

Happily Ever After

Today was the day of arnav khushi's triplets naming ceremony yes they had triplets everyone in raizada family was happy and arav was oncloud 9 he got 2 sisters and 1 brother..

Khushi and arnav were the most happiest to see all the family members happy.

The preparations were done and the priest called arnav and khushi with the three little masters downstairs they sat for the havan..

The havan got completed and arnav khushi named their childs as

Reva arnav singh raizada

Ahaana arnav singh raizad

Khushav arnav singh raizada

the fuction was over now and the guests has left…..

the three little masters were sleeping and arav was too sleeping coz he was tired and other family members were busy in their own work..

arnav and khushi were left alone…

arnav took khushi to his mothers garden after telling anjalithey both sat on the bench and arnav held khushi's hand and both of them looked in each others eyes……

arnav-khushi don't you feels that time has been soo fast… we have completed 5 years together still it feels that it all started just some days back…

khushi-I know arnavji because our love is the strongest thing which binds us together…

arnav-khushi u remember our first meet how you fell in my arm's from the ramp….

Khushi-kaise bhool skte hai hum who din.. pehle pehle toh hum uss din ko bahut bura mante the par ajj hum uss din ko sabse acha mante hai kyunki uss din hum apse mile the… apko yaad hai apne hamri doori kaise gusse mai thori thi…

Arnav-yaa I remember.. I cannot forget 6^th june 2011 ever in my life..

Khushi-arnavji apko yaad hai kaise apne hame uss din farm house par beja tha aur humne apko kitna sunaya tha..

Arnav-haan yaad hai uss din toh tum lady ASR ban gayi thi….

Khushi pouted at arnav and he said

Arnav-jooking yaar…. Khushi you remember the when you went with NK to get something for puja an di came in search of you.. wen I saw that ambulance I was soo afraid "what if I had lost you"

Khushi-agar app ussi din I love you bol dete na toh hum dono ko itni pareshaniyan na uthani parti….

Arnav-haan.. mai janta ho maine tumhe bahut hurt kiya hai I forvefully married you without trusting you…

Khushi-who sab purani batein hai lets recall our happy moments… arnavji you know what that day when on phone u said I LOVE YOU to me I was very happy from inside…….but outside i was crying..

Arnav-really.. ohk.. soo do u remember when I first kissed u during akash and payal's wedding

Khushi-yes I do and I also remember how I kissed u infront of naniki and di… I was feeling soo embaraced…

Arnav-u remember our teri meri dance.. it was the best dance of my life

Khushi-mine too.arnavji tell me when you felt proud of me?

Arnav-I feel proud of you every moment khushi u r a perfect daughter-in-law a perfect wife a perfect mother… the way you manage household and me .. I just feel proud of you but yes when u became mrs. India I felt sooo proud of you and you know what I was sure that only you will win…….

Khushi-you know hat arnavji when you said that you will marry me again with all the rituals I felt really blessed and u married me despite knowing about amma…

Arnav-khushi u know what I seriously feel that in all this your mother was also a victim dad never told her that he was married….

Khushi-thank you for everything arnavji….. u r the best husband anybody can get…

Arnav-and you r the best thing happened to me khushi……………

Khushi- our both the marriages were full of tredagy in first one you forcefully married me and in second one dadi created the mess but u still came..

Arnav-I had to some for my love..

Khushi blushed….

Khushi-arnavji I wanna live my whole life with you but godforbid something happenes

Khushi's sentence left incomplete as arnav covered her lips with his…….

After sometime arnav broke the kiss and said

Arnav-don't you dare utter a word about death we both will live together nad die together…..

Khushi nodded…

~~after 27 years~~

Know arnav and khushi have married off their four childs….

And now their arav is a father himself…

Arnav and khushi are grandmom and granddad……

They felt blessed to have such nice life partners for their kids..

Their love story had been famous in entire world….

Yes khushi wrote a novel on their love story titled

"Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon"

Which proved to be a best seller…

Time passed but their love remained the same…

Arnav is still naughty with khushi

And khushi is still a sanka devi

They fight

They love

They pacify each other

And they love each other still the same..

Their love story is still like it has started few days agao sometimes their childrens also thinks"our parents our more younger then us"

Khushi now is a succesfull social worker

She has many orphanages and old age homes running

And some schools and hospitals too

AR is the no.1 fashion house of the world…

Arnav gave entire responsibility of AR to arav,khushav and payash [payal and aaksh's son]

Khushi's daughter-in-law's follow her each step..

And love her as their own mom..

Arnav and khushi's two angels love their mom dad like hell that's why their husband lives with them in RM..raizada family is still the and will remain the same….

Arnav and khushi's love story will remain in every heart forever

And They lived happily ever after….

*Continue Reading in the next post!*

Entry #5

His mission

Khushi stirred and opened her eyes. She was in an unknown place. It seemed to be something like a hotel room. She threw the blanket away and tried to get up. That was when she noticed her swollen belly. She raised her nightshirt and saw her baby bump. She traced her fingers over the little bump and a smile crossed her lips.

Her smile was instantly replaced by fear as she didn't remember anything about herself or the father of the baby she was going to have. Tears threatened her and she fought hard to keep them at bay.

There was a tag on the suitcase which said 'Khushi'. There was no indication of a man sharing the room with her.

She took a shower and changed to a denim jeans and a loose fitting Tshirt which hid her bump.

Her stomach growled and she decided to feed herself and the baby before finding out about herself.

She asked the lift operator for the restaurant and he stopped in the first floor.

The restaurant was very crowded. There was only one empty table near the right corner. She made her way to the empty table and sat down.

A man and a woman, who sat about ten tables away, watched her every move like a hawk.

"I can't believe you are doing this to her, chote," the woman, Anjali, said. "She is five months pregnant."

"I will be by her side the second she feels uncomfortable, di," Arnav told her.

"She is suffering, chote and you are only increasing the things in her list."

"You have no idea how it is, di. Every morning, it is as if her brain is wiped clean. She wakes up and finds herself cuddled close to me. The next thing I see is fear. She pushes me away and panics. It hurts, di. It hurts to know that she is frightened of me. She is frightened of the baby growing inside her as she fights with herself to remember whose it is."

"Today, you are trying to let her decide for herself, chote. This is not a cure. You have to help her write down diaries or help her with hints or photographs for Anterograde Amnesia. You just can't let her be on her own."

"One day, di," he said with tears in his eyes. "I want to know how powerful love is. My love is. Our love is."

She nodded. "The waiter is signaling for you."

When Khushi occupied the empty table, the waiter said, "Sorry ma'am. This table is occupied. Can you wait for a while so that I can arrange another table for you?"

"Sure. I'll wait."

When she got up, Arnav said, "We can share the table if you don't mind."

Her growling stomach did not give her much time to think over his offer.

"Thanks," she said and sat on the chair.

They ordered breakfast and waited for it to arrive. Khushi played around with the bracelet in her right hand while Arnav stared at her through the corner of the eye as he went through the mails in his phone.

"Are you here for vacation?" he asked her.

"Here?" She scolded herself for not finding out where she was.

"Here…. Darjeeling," he offered.

"I think so."

She was distracted by the television in the restaurant as it played a song from a Salman Khan movie. Her lips curved into a wide smile as she enjoyed the song.

She forgot about her predicament for a few minutes. "Amazing song. I love Salman."

Arnav cursed under his breath.

"She loves Salman," he muttered. "Unbelievable, man. Here I am, sitting in front of her and she loves Salman. Why couldn't she forget Salman and remember me? Mr. Khan, be ready for a battle."

Anjali and Arnav were connected through Bluetooth headsets and she heard what her brother muttered.

She giggled. "Looks like someone is jealous."

"Stop it, di," he whined.

"I wish she never had that accident. Or at least I wish she had that accident after she met you."

He sighed. "I just wish to smash that television to pieces."

"You said something?" Khushi asked him.

He shook his head.

The waiter arrived with their breakfast.

"Can you pass me the sugar, please?"

He passed the cup with the sugar cubes to her. Their fingers touched when she took the cup from him. As soon as their fingers touched, she pulled back her hand as though the contact burnt her.

Arnav masked the pain he felt at her reaction and drank his coffee.

The rest of the minutes passed in silence.

There was no vermillion on her forehead and the chain was hidden in her Tshirt and he decided to use 'Miss' for his final try.

Before leaving, he said, "I am Arnav. Have a nice day, Miss."

"Mrs. Khushi Singh Raizada."

Her words stopped him from leaving.

"I remembered you the second our fingers touched."

He closed his eyes to stop his tears from falling.

"I remembered the way you hug me from behind and place your hands on my stomach to feel our baby."

He walked behind her and snaked his hands around her waist and placed his hands over her five month bump.

"Like this?"

She nodded.

"I remembered the way you kiss my neck and say…."

Before she could speak further, he bent his head and kissed the crook of her neck and said, "I love you."

"And then I remembered the way you kneel in front of me and talk to our baby."

Forgetting about the stares he received, he knelt down before her.

"Today, I hurt your mummy by leaving her alone, baby. I hope you will forgive your papa."

She pulled him to his feet and hugged him.

"I can't help forgetting, Arnav. Even if it hurts me, please make me remember you and our baby. I love you, Arnav."

Anjali said, "Mission accomplished, chote. Your love is very strong."

Entry #6

Wolf Dream

Arnav walked into the college campus with his thoughts around his love, Khushi. It was his birthday and she hadn't even wished him. No phone calls. Not even a text with the simple words 'Happy Birthday'. He was angry with her.

All of a sudden, someone jumped on him from behind. The touch and smell told him that it was Khushi. She wrapped her legs around his waist and her hands around his neck. He carried her piggyback style. He was tempted to let her fall but thought otherwise and held her thighs.

"Hey, pretty girl!" he said.

"Hey to you, cute boy."

He groaned. "I am not cute, okay?"

She pinched her cheeks and said, "You are to me. A very, very cute boy. My very cute Alpha."

Students started to entered the college and saw the couple. They didn't mind about it much as they knew that the two were the cutest couple. Most of the students in the college were werewolves and there were very little humans. Arnav was the future Alpha of the pack and all the werewolf students knew about it. Khushi was his mate and Arnav made everyone know about her as he didn't want anybody flirting with her.

"Whatever…. I am angry with you," he told her.

"Why is my mate angry with me?"

He removed his hands from her thighs and shook her off him. She would have fallen if she hadn't anticipated it.

"Forget it," he growled.

He was on his way to the Principal's office when Khushi called him.

"Mr. Alpha, I have a present for you."

He turned around.

"What present?"

"You have to catch me first. I'll tell you."

"I am faster than you, pretty girl. I can catch you in a matter of seconds."

"Let's see, cute boy. Right now. In the forest behind the campus. You catch me and I'll give you the best gift possible. What say?"

"I am ready," he said with a smirk.

"Before we leave, I have to tell you something." She waved her hand and shouted, "Happy Birthday, my dearest Arnav."

Rose petals fell on him and he saw his brother, Akash, and a few others of his pack on the main building's first floor with an empty sack.

Khushi and Arnav ran to the back gate and into the forest.

When they were out of everybody's sight, Arnav said, "Remove your clothes. I don't want you to lose them."

They chose separate bushes and removed their clothes and changes into their wolf forms.

Arnav was a massive black werewolf. Khushi was smaller than him. She was a snow white werewolf who had a little black on her belly.

He let out a happy howl to know that the game had begun. They picked their clothes in their mouth and ran.

Khushi ran around trees and jumped over bushes. Arnav had to accept. She was fast. But not fast enough for him. He pounced on her and they rolled over on the dirt. Arnav, in wolf form, landed on top of her and licked her face. She didn't give up. She pushed him and stood in front of him and shook her fur to get rid of the dirt.

She moved her head in the direction of a small wood house. He understood. He tackled her to the ground again and caught her neck between his teeth. She yelped when his teeth bit into her skin. He softened his hold and let her gather their clothes.

He carried her and dropped her in front of the house and nudged her to change. He stayed out and changed too.

Khushi, in human form, opened the door and welcomed him in.

"Where is my gift, pretty girl?"

She spread her hands and said, "Me. I am your gift."

He frowned.

"What sort of a gift is that?"

"Don't you want to mark you gift, cute boy."

His eyes twinkled. Marking his mate meant listening to each other's every single thought and understanding every hidden feeling. In short, their lives laid bare in front of each other. He had wanted to mark her when he had found out that she was his mate but she had wanted to wait.

"It will be a little painful," he warned.

"I can manage."

He didn't have the patience to wait. He made her lie down on the floor and got on top of her. She tilted her head and gave him full access to her neck.

"Are you sure?" he asked.

"Don't tell me Mr. Alpha is frightened."

He bent his head and bit her neck with his wolf fangs. She gasped in pain as his teeth sunk in and later she enjoyed it as she felt every thought of his course through her. It was the same with Arnav.

"You are mine," he said as he raised his head and kissed her forehead.

She felt someone tickling her and she opened her eyes. She found Arnav's chocolate brown eyes watching her with love.

She smacked his shoulder and said, "You spoiled a wonderful dream."

"What was it about, may I ask?"

"About us being werewolves and you marking me."

"Interesting," he chuckled.

"What happens when a female marks her mate?"

He got down from the bed and stood facing her.

"I don't know. Why?"

Without answering him, she changed into her wolf form. Her clothes ripped as she changed and she pounced on him. They fell with her on top of him. She licked his face and let out a happy howl.

"Someone is happy even though I woke her up from her dream."

'I am going to try,' he heard her voice in his mind.

"Try what?"

Khushi's wolf smacked her lips and bit into Arnav's neck.

"Wow." He touched her belly and said, "You are pregnant, pretty girl. I can sense our baby."

Tears filled their eyes.

'I am living my dream,' she said through her mind link.

"Me, too."

Entry #7

I am Pregnant

It was morning.Arnav Singh Raizada opened his eyes feeling a naughty ray of sunlight tickling his face.He instantly felt the warmth that is cuddled against his chest, his wife Khushi Arnav Raizada.Her hand thrown across his bare tummy while his hands held her by her waist possessively.They both covered from the cold atmosphere by a white silk sheet.Her hair all messed..Sindhoor smeared..He remembered their last night deed and smiled.Even after being married for almost an year they both couldn't get enough of each other..It was as if the passion and pull between them was increasing day by day.He dropped a kiss on her hair and tried to get up.His movements may have caused some disturbance to her sleep, she stirred and opened her eyes.The first thing she saw was her husbands smiling face.She too smiled at him and pulled his face closer for a morning kiss..Whenever they kissed,everything else seemed stopped for a moment.They both kissed each other with intense passion..Both not ready to leave each others mouth.After what seemed like eternity Khushi pulled back from the kiss, gasping for breath.

Arnav-Good Morning Mrs Raizada..

The possessive way he addressed her by that name still made her blush a dark shade of pink.

Khushi-Good Morning Arnav..

Arnav-How do you blush so much even now Khushi?..

Khushi-All thanks to you..

Arnav-Really,my tigress?..

Khushi-Have any doubt Mr Raizada?

He leaned closer to her and rubbed his nose with hers.

Arnav-I have to go early today..Have an appointment with the Sharmas..

Khushi-Hmm

Arnav-Get up lazy bones..

Khushi-Iam not feeling to wake up now Arnav..Feeling tired..

Arnav(touching her forehed,concerned)-What happened?...Aren't you feeling well?.Should I call the doctor?

Khushi-Uff..Di is right..You are too much Arnav…I am feeling a little bit of tired only..(caressing his cheeks)Don't worry so much…Iam fine..

Arnav-But..

Khushi-No ifs and buts…You go and freshen..I will sleep for half an hour..

Khushi pushed Arnav softly.He wore his track pants and left to bathroom still worried about Khushi's health.

Khushi was sleeping when Arnav came out from bathroom,after shower.He wore his three piece suit and sat beside her..He kissed her forehead softly.Khushi opened her eyes feeling his lips on her forehead.He was dressed in his office suit a cute frown adoring his forehed.

Arnav-Are you fine Khushi?..Please tell me sweetheart aren't you feeling well?..I mean you never sleeps like this..

Khushi-Iam perfectly alright..How can I be not fine when you are with me?

Arnav(kissing her cheeks)-Take care Khushi…

Khushi was about to get up when Arnav stops her.

Arnav-You rest here..I will tell to Payal and Di..

Khushi-I am not tired now Arnav…I will go downstairs…

Arnav-No..You are not going anywhere..It is high time you take care of yourself Khushi..If you don't do it, I will have to do it for you..You can't neglect your health like this…Understood?

Khushi(pouting)-Yes boss..

Arnav smiled and captured her pouting lips in his.After bidding her bye,he left for office.

It was about an hour later Khushi came to downstairs.She don't know why she was feeling so strange..so tired..She greeted Mamiji and Nani who were sitting in the hall making garlands for pooja and left to kitchen.

Anjali-Good morning Khushiji..Are you fine?..Chottey told you were not feeling well..

Khushi-Ohh this Laad Governor…I was feeling tired Di..Nothing else..Now I am fine..

Payal(showing a packet)-See what babuji had sent for you Khushi…

Khushi-Jalebeess!

Khushi ran to Payal and took the packet from her.She took a juicy jalebi from it and was about to put it in her mouth when she felt to throw up.She kept the packet on the nearby shelf and ran to washroom ,leaving a shocked Anjali and Payal..They followed Khushi and saw her throwing up..Anjali rubbed Khushi's back while Payal came with a glass of water.

Anjali-What happened Khushiji?

Khushi-I don't know Di..I felt to throw up when I saw jalebees..I mean I am having this strange feeling for a few days..I feel very tired..

Payal(making Khushi drink the water)-You need some rest…You go to room and rest..We will call the doctor..

Anjali-Haan..I will take you to your room Khushiji..

Saying that Anjali and Khushi left to her room.Payal meanwhile went to take her mobile to call Dr Shilpa who was their family doctor when,

Anjali-PAYAL JII,, KHUSHIJI FAINTED!!!

Arnav was standing infront of the closed door of RM restlessly waiting for somebody to open.He was literally flying from after he got Payal's call. "Arnavji,Khushi is not well..she fainted" this was all he heard..HP opened the door and he rushed inside..He saw their family doctor Shilpa Mehra coming down the stairs,Payal and Anjali beside her.He ran to them surprising Payal and Anjali.

Arnav-How is my wife doctor?...What happened to her?

Shilpa(smiling)-Your wife is perfectly alright now Mr Raizada..You go and see her.

Anjali-Yeah chottey…Khushiji is in your room..

Arnav rushed to his room and found Khushi sitting on the bed leaning on the headboard.He sat beside her and cupped her cheeks.

Arnav-What happened Khushi?..What did the doctor say?

Khushi looked his anxious face and her eyes filled with tears..

Khushi-She said you have to prepare to welcome another member..

Arnav(confused)-What?

Khushi-One more person will be coming to our family soon..

Arnav-Who?..I don't understand anything Khushi..

Khushi-Ohh..A person who will call you papa..

Arnav was silent for some minutes.

Arnav-You mean…you..you are..pre..pregnant?

Khushi(smiling)-Yes Arnav..

He hugged her tightly and after some minutes broke the hug and showered her face with kisses..Each time murmuring I Love You..

Arnav-Thank you Khushi…For coming into my dull life and coloring it with happiness and dreams..

Khushi-I should be the one to thank you Arnav..For giving me so much happiness..for making me your wife..for loving me unconditionally..and for making me a complete woman…I Love You Arnav..

He pulled her closer and kissed her passionately..After some minutes he kissed her belly,where his baby was lying under her heart and whispered

Arnav-Love you baby..I will try my best to be a good father……Papa loves you both…

Khushi(hugging Arnav)-You will be the best father…and we both love you very very much…..

Entry #8

The day which started all

Today was 6^th June. The same day when it all started, they both met and set start of their new journey. Journey of love and hate and love won.

Arnav and Khushi both were sleeping peacefully together, arnav woke up as the sun rays came in their room through the curtains.

Arnav turned where he saw his angel sleeping like a baby. Seeing her early in the morning always gave him pleasure, then as he noticed the time it was 8, time to wake her up.

He gently stoke Khushi hair and said "Khushi its 8 you should get up otherwise you might get late for morning prayers"

After asking about several times Khushi finally opened her eyes and said "good morning" to which arnav replied after placing a kiss on her forehead.

After that that they both got ready and went down for Morning Prayer and breakfast.

After breakfast they both came back to their room Khushi was resting as she was expecting while arnav was busy working on his laptop suddenly he saw something and said "what the! How can I forgot todays date"

Khushi who was now reading some magazine asked "arnavji what so special about today, did you have some important meeting"

Arnav left his work and came and sat beside Khushi and said "no Khushi nothing like that. Actually today is 6^th june". Khushi was confused "so something important"

Arnav looked at her confused expression and understand that she too forgets so he said "yes Khushi today is very important day for both us as 2 years ago we met". Then Khushi realized that what she forget and exclaimed "devi maiya I totally forgot I am sorry" and he just smiled "don't be but still can't belief two year pass since we met''

Khushi spoke "arnavji I still remember that day I came to meet jijji in law and somebody push me on the ramp, I was so afraid I didn't knew what to do and I just start walking as those models force me and as I reached at end I don't know how I slipped and I fall in your arms".

Now it was arnav turn "Khushi same here I can't forget that day because that day I got reason of my existence. When I saw you falling I can't stop myself to take you in my arms and I must say you have the beautiful eyes I ever saw, I was just lost in you.

Khushi looked at him and said "oh really then why do you behave so harshly with me" arnav hold Khushi hand and said "I am sorry Khushi that day I just couldn't control my anger I know I hurt you a lot" Khushi said "don't be sorry if that things doesn't happen then we would be have never been together so just forget that remember the good times we had together"

Arnav said "Khushi you know when you were working in AR and you wore a saree, that day you look like an angel who has come to fill my life with happiness and you when you resigned and told me that you are leaving delhi forever I felt like some part of me is going away" Khushi spoke "I felt same that's why I didn't go and then we again met in shantivan and then di appointed me to train lavanyaji and we met daily although I put a condition then I will not meet you" arnav nodded and said "hmm do you remember our nanital trip we were out of fuel and someone stole your clothes and you have to wear her bridal dress" Khushi said in between "of course I remember then we went to dhaba and everybody assume we were married"

Arnav smile remembering it " yah and what about diwali and our almost.." before arnav could complete khushi" arnavji" arnav "what you know Khushi if that day the phone doesn't ring you might know I would have complete that" Khushi blushed hearing that " then we set jijji with jijaji and then the marriage preparation began"

They both were smiling remembering those days as arnav spoke "those were best day our challenge the teri meri dance, then you wrote my name on mehendi, after that I kiss you and challenged you back and to my surprise you did it then the day of wedding we both serve the guest, I choose saree for you everything was perfect I was about to confess to you my feelings but everything" Khushi cut him off " we got married I know not in best way still I also love those moment when I tease you here and in buajii house and when we returned everything got changed you left me and you were kidnapped"

Arnav cupped Khushi face "Khushi and only because of you I am here today you saved me" Khushi said " it was my duty arnavji the moment you said those words I know something was wrong and then after six month we both decided to marry again and we did after that arav come in our lives and complete our family"

Arnav said " not yet our angel is still yet to be born and she will come in some days" as soon as arnav said that Khushi screamed in pain " I think it's time" arnav didn't know what to do he just took Khushi in his arm and drive her to hospital with other family members.

Khushi was taken inside while everyone was waiting outside. Arnav was pacing continuously in the corridor just then the doctor comes out "congratulation it's a girl"

Hearing that arnav went inside where he saw Khushi and his angel, he went and took his baby in his arm "Khushi she is just like you, thanks for our angel now our family is complete you, me, arav and our angel arshi" arav too came there

The others just smile looking at perfect family.

*Continue Reading in the next post!*

Entry #9

Oasis

A month passed by after Arnav Singh Raizada & Khushi Kumari Gupta's six month's contract marriage.Anjali & Nani were still angry on both of them.Mamiji never missed a chance to taunt Khushi.Paayal was facing the dilemma everyday as to whose side should she take,her sister's or her mother in law's.

The glow on Khushi's face was fading day by day. Arnav never comforted her.Instead he did everything that would suffer her further. On the other side, the sole reason, because of whom, lives of two families turned upside down, Shyam Manohar Jha,was happily wandering & creeping over RM.

After a long,hectic day at work, Arnav returned home when clock stuck 11.He opened the doors with his keys. Everyone were fast asleep by then.He strode towards staircase trying not to make noise.

He reached the kitchen & heard some sounds.He went forward curiously & halted on the spot. Khushi was against wall & Shyam was staring at her lustily.Khushi's face was almost pale due to fear.Arnav took a step ahead in anger but stopped when he heard Khushi yelling at Shyam.

"Don't you dare come near me Shyamji.Didn't I told you before that you disgust me.I don't want to talk to you. Just leave."

"Listen to me once Khushiji.Why don't you understand that I love you so much.That Arnav doesn't love you.Wo toh ye samjhta hai ki aap bhi humse pyaar karti hain.That's why he married you. To protect his Di's marriage.He thinks you are a home wrecker.But he doesn't know that he can't take you away from me.You will be mine very soon Khushiji." Shyam said in the most lustful tone & left the kitchen.Arnav stood mummified on the spot. He couldn't believe his ears.Khushi was shocked to the death. She heard nearing footsteps & got startled. She was about to scream thinking it was Shyam when she saw Arnav.His eyes had turmoils of emotions in them. Disbelief, defeat,rage, anger,concern,repentance. He stood there for a while & suddenly stormed out of kitchen. She followed him hurriedly. Everything was now crystal clear to Khushi.Why he blackmailed her into this marriage. Why he refused to answer her questions.She could understand what he must have gone through all these days. That creep Shyam had trapped him too in his filthy tricks. And because of his weakness,his sister, Arnav fell for it very easily.

She went upstairs to their bedroom. The room was almost dark. As soon she entered the room,she felt his strong arms around her tiny waist. Arnav was on his knees hugging her from waist & resting his cheek on her tummy.

"Khoosh...Khushi...I...I am...I...please Khushi...please forgive me.I made a grave mistake Kooshi.Please don't leave me.I can't live without you. That bas*ard...he...Just give me one chance Khushi.Please just once." Arnav said in a breaking & shaking voice.

Khushi held his shoulders & raised him on his feet. She looked worriedly at him. His eyes were bloodshot due to unshed tears.

"No Arnavji.I can't see you like this. I can't see you shattered. I'll not leave you at any cost. Sambhaliye apne aap ko.You have to be strong for Di,for me.Look at me."

He looked in her eyes & saw concern,tenderness & love for him in those doe eyes.

"I love you Khushi.I was scared of loosing you." He hugged her with all the passion.

"I love you too Arnavji." She hugged him back with equal passion.

Her confession made him pull back from hug.He cupped her face gently & placed a feathery kiss on her lips. She reciprocated him & there was no turning back. The kiss started gently & turned passionate & demanding in seconds. An mere kiss showcased every emotion that had existed on the face of earth. They parted in the need of oxygen.After few moments he scooped her in his arms & strode towards their bed.They kissed again & a moan escaped her lips to stir desires & passion within them. Their being one was witnessed by the stars,French doors, pool side & cool gust of wind.

Though the whole world was against her.Though she had a rough road ahead of her. But that night she found her Oasis in scorching desert, in the form of her husband. She was ready to face the world with her husband by her side.

Entry #10

Once More

As NK was nearing Arnav's room, he heard typing sounds from the laptop and thought that it must be Arnav.But, he was surprised. In front of him was Khushi, with a Bluetooth in her ear and busy typing. 'Khushi jeee?!!' exclaimed NK. Khushi looked up to see a surprised NK with his mouth half open.

'Nanheji, when did you come? I thought you were coming next month?'

'Yes, I was. But, I thought of giving you all a surprise and here I am. But, instead you've given me a surprise! What is with you, the laptop and Bluetooth? And where are Nannav and Aarav?'

Hearing that Khushi laughed and said,'Aarav has gone on a school trip. You know that Arnavji has made me incharge of the Indian wear section. Well, all this is related to that. Arnavji left very early today morning. I've been trying to call him, but his phone is switched off. Anyway, I am leaving for office in some time. I will meet him and tell him that you've come. By the way, how was your journey?And did you meet the others?'

'Yes Khushiji, I came up after meeting everyone. The journey was fine. But, at the airport I had a tiff with this girl. She thought I purposely bumped into her and started accusing me for no fault of mine. I had a hard time coming out of that situation.'

'Really Nanheji, you are sure you weren't flirting with her?' winked Khushi

'No Khushiji', pleaded NK.

Meanwhile, they heard some sounds from the hall. Khushi immediately concluded, 'Oh, she must be here.'

'Who?' asked NK and followed Khushi to the living room. They saw Nani, Mami and Anjali welcoming a young girl who had arrived with her bags to spend some days at RM. As her back was towards them, NK couldn't see her face. But when Khushi called her out 'Ananya'' she turned around and NK immediately recognised her.

Ananya knew the voice and turning around said, 'Khushiji'.' and when she saw NK, she shouted, 'You!? How dare you follow me up to here. Do you know, Khushiji, this guy has been chasing me from the airport' she complained.

Hearing this, everybody except NK, broke into a laughter. Mami explained, 'Ananya, this is my nephew, NK.

'Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't know' said Ananya, but a look towards NK implied that she was far from sorry and still believed that he was a flirt.

NK came near Anjali and whispered, 'Di, who is she? Is she also one of Nannav's ex-girlfriends?' NK had to get his doubt cleared as he realised that he seemed to be having a special liking for all of Arnav's girlfriends.

Anjali laughed at his doubts and explained, 'No, but she is his ex-girlfriend, Lavanya's cousin, Ananya. You know about Lavanya , right? We met Ananya at Lavanya's marriage in London and invited her to spend some time here.

Later Khushi bid goodbye to all and left for office. At the office, she asked for Arnav but was told that he had left for a meeting outside. Khushi wondered why Arnav was behaving so from morning. She hadn't talked to him all day and he was clearly avoiding her. She went into his cabin and was fiddling with his things, lost in his thoughts, when a hand suddenly covered her beautiful eyes. Khushi immediately knew whose it was. 'Arnavji, stop it. I'm angry with you. You haven't talked to me since morning and now you are doing this?'

'Why not? I love it when your nose becomes red in anger.' laughed Arnav.

'Arnavji, I am not in a mood for jokes now. Please tell me what is going on?'

'No Khushi. I won't tell you. But, I'll show you. Come.'

Arnav took Khushi to a posh restaurant. Arnav had booked a table at an exclusive corner from where they could not be visible to the rest. Khushi kept asking him the reason for this special date. Arnav asked her to be patient and gave the order for food.

'Arnavji, now I can't wait anymore. Please tell me the reason' requested Khushi.

Arnav smiled at his innocent wife, took out a gift parcel hidden under the table and gave it to her. 'Here, this is for you.' he said. Khushi looked at it wide eyed with her 'O' mouth. 'Where did this come from? That's why you left early today, to plan for all this?' asked Khushi. Arnav nodded and asked her to open it. Khushi gleamed with excitement and opened the packet. Inside was a beautiful red colour saree decorated with pearls of various sizes.

'Khushi, remember the first time we met? I was very rude to you that day. I still feel very bad about it.'

'Arnavji, I know. But, why are you saying all this today?'

'Because it has been exactly two years since I met you. Happy 2^nd Anniversary Khushi' smiled Arnav.

Khushi was in tears now. She couldn't believe that Arnav had remembered the date of their first meeting too.

'Of course, Khushi. Didn't I tell you? I remember each and everything about the moments I spent with you.'

Khushi smiled and hugged Arnav. After some time, they returned home from their date. When they went inside they saw Ananya and NK quarrelling again and Anjali trying to calm them down. When Anjali saw Arnav and Khushi, she asked them to talk to these two and went inside. Arnav was about to say something, when Ananya tripped over Aarav's tennis ball and was about to fall. But, NK was right there to catch her. Ananya was saved but both their eyes met and they fell for each other.

One look at them and Arnav smiled and whispered to Khushi, 'Looks like next year one more couple is going to celebrate their anniversary.' Needless to say, Arnav's prediction came true. After many fights, quarrels and patch-ups NK and Ananya celebrated their first meet anniversary next year.

Entry #11

A Battle Lost is A Battle Won

Khushi fixed the dupatta on Payal very carefully. In the orange lehenga, her sister was looking no less than a queen.

"You are looking so beautiful, Jiji. None of the Raizada women can even come near you."

"Khushi!! You always exaggerate."

Khushi hugged her from the back.

"I will miss you, Jiji."

"Shall I call it off then?"

"Kya?! And you were telling I exaggerate?Now stop looking like you have been sentenced to death.You should be smiling now. Not everyone becomes a Raizada Bahu."

Payal's lips curved into a small smile. She knew she deserved this happiness to her sister.

"Thank you, Khushi."

"Mention not, Mrs Payal To-Be Arnav Singh Raizada."

=====================================================================

Arnav watched her coming down the stairs. She was not in her everyday chudidar and braid. Her long locks were open and dangling over her green chiffon clad body. She was looking different ' the kind of different that made him feel different too.

Khushi Kumari Gupta.

Her enemy.

Their eyes met. And her lips hinted a winning smirk.

He did not respond. But his eyes followed her every move ' as she walked towards the gazebo. Her hair was dancing with the wind. Her hips swayed. Her pallu conspired with the wind and tried to fall off her shoulder.

A beautiful enemy.

She had looked just as beautiful shivering in his arms that night. The fashion show in Sheesh Mahal.

Their eyes met again and she did not avert her gaze.

"Chotey! Where are you?"

His sister called. It was time he joined them.

Khushi watched as he started walking towards them.

Arnav Singh Raizada.

Her enemy.

He was as always in his boring black attire. Hair perfectly set. 5 o' clock stubble defining his arrogance. His long strides as confident as ever.

A handsome enemy.

It was all about the challenge, when it started.

"I will make you pay, Mr. Raizada. You will bring my sister in this house yourself, marrying her, as Mrs. Raizada."

"I will marry your sister? That will never happen, Ms. Gupta. And I never lose any challenge."

She was adamant on making him pay for the loss he had caused. But when the marriage proposal really happened, only one thing gave her confidence' her trust in his words. Her three months in AR Fashion House had taught her that he was a man of his words. And he had promised to take care of her Jiji always, to keep her happy.

She had won her battle in the end.

Arnav Singh Raizada was getting engaged to Payal Gupta today.

The Arnav Singh Raizada - because of whom her sister's marriage broke, because of whom they had to leave Lucknow. The Arnav Singh Raizada, who derogated the concept of marriage. The Arnav Singh Raizada who maligned her for life.

But the taste of triumph was not as sweet as she had anticipated. She knew it was not only post-battle fatigue. She cursed herself for feeling this way, for the unwanted heartache. Only a few more minutes. And Arnav Singh Raizada would be her Jiji's forever. It all would be over.

Her eyes did not leave his for a single minute as the ceremony started. His eyes did not leave hers too. Amid the celebration after the rings were exchanged, the two still stood. They scanned the joyous faces of everyone.And then their eyes met again.

And his lips hinted a winning smirk.

=====================================================================

Khushi was watching her own reflection on the ripples of the pool. Her breathing hitched as another face appeared.

"Khushi Kumar Gupta."

His soft whispers sent shiver through her body .. like every time he was this close to her, from the very first day she had fallen in his arms. She tried to ease her erratic breathing. But when had her body ever listened to her when he was this close? She hated herself for this .. for feeling this way .. about this arrogant man she so wanted to loathe.

"Kahan tha na maine," he whispered again, "I never lose."

His whisper made her shudder; it also burnt her skin. She faced his smirking face.

"You promised!"

Her growl only broadened his smirk.

"Yes. I promised. I promised she would be a Raizada Bahu. I promised to always take care of her. But did I ever promise that I, Arnav Singh Raizada, would marry your sister?"

Realization dawned on her and she stood speechless lost in his intense eyrs. All this while, she had been played .. by Aranv Singh Raizada.

Arnav took time to scan her glaring eyes .. Her shivering lips, flushed cheeks .. Her heaving chest .. She looked different even when she was angry.

"Akash is an amazing person. She would keep Payal very happy."

"But she thought it would be you .. You broke her heart," her voice came out in whisper.

Arnav smirked.

"Come on, Khushi! You know me this much. You really think it was me she has been talking to every night?"

Khushi blinked. His smirk broadened.

"Everyone but you knew, Khushi. I cannot thank your family enough to help me give you a surprise."

Khushi watched his devilishly handsome face - smirking. She did not know what made her feel so overwhelmed ' rage, relief, joy ' She felt defeated .. yet the happiness was thousand times more.

"One more thing."

Khushi looked up as he stepped ahead.

"Tumhaari naak laal ho gayi hai."

She stood frozen with butterfly flying inside her stomac as he flicked her nose softly, smirked and walked away.

This Arnav Singh Raizada she had never known.

He turned from the glass door and gave her his most beautiful lopsided smile.

"So are you up for the next one?"

Khushi blinked. Next one?

"Perhaps I would agree to pay a higher price for releasing the fashion show tape."

Khushi blinked again.

"And there is only one more bachelor Raizada left."

Khushi's heart stopped as Arnav smirked meaningfully ' his eyes darker than ever.

"Hope we both win again, Khushi Kumari Gupta ... To-Be Singh Raizada."

Entry #12

Is This Love?

Khushi stood at the gate till the final car disappeared from view, the dust long settled, the sounds gone silent. Arnav stood by her side, looking at her, watching as a myriad of expressions crossed her face.

"Its time, my love", Arnav whispered.

Khushi looked at him and smiled. She knew that this is where it shall all end.

With trembling hands, she held her husband's strong ones.

As she took a step forward, she stumbled. And in the way he had been doing ever since she knew him, Arnav caught her before she could fall.

They gazed at each other.. taking a moment of privacy before they began their journey towards the building..

"Devyani Raizada Home"

The board in front, read.

If one were to read the print below, they would know that it was a trust funded by AR group of Companies and several others, for the benefit of patients suffering from Alzheimer's and other old age related problems. A "New-age" old-age home.

Khushi had Alzheimer's disease. At the ripe age of 78, one would almost expect that in her. What had surprised people was the dedication with which her husband stood by her, everyday.

Khushi battled memory loss. She remembered details of her youth, but forgot who she had met just yesterday.

She battled old age. The beautiful chirpy girl had been transformed to a graceful old woman, whose smile still lit up the room.

She battled vision trouble. Surgeries helped her halve the problem.

Other health concerns had come and gone.

Through this, Arnav stood by her side. He never let go of her hand.

Not when his son told him they should admit her to a specialty center..

Not when his daughter complained, "Mom is getting on my nerves."

Alzheimer's had struck Khushi pretty early. It had started with simple memory lapses when she was 42, progressing to full fledged dementia by the time she touched 45.

Arnav was the one who recognized the signs. And he was the one who created this trust, with a whole suite meant for them. Because there was no way that he would leave Khushi alone.

So, for the past 35 years, they had been staying at this home. Their new home. For Khushi, everyday was a new beginning. For Arnav, everyday was a chance to reclaim his love.

And today, as they had waived 'bye to their kids and their families, he had seen the peace that Khushi felt. It was as if they had reconciled with their past. Forgiven and forgotten.

Khushi looked with eyes full of love at her husband.

If there was one thing, out of all, that she remembered, it was his touch. His love.

She had witnessed the death of her Amma, followed by that of her Buaji. Her Babuji had fought death and lived longer, but he was gone too.

Payal and Akash had relocated to London a few decades back, and they visited for a few months every year. Anjali di was in Australia with mamaji, mamiji and NK's family. They would visit too, but a little less often.

Naniji had passed away peacefully, surrounded by all the people she loved. And the Prakash brothers had long left the job and gone back to their own homes. Lakshmi's soul adorned heaven since the past half century.

Her own kids, a son, who she had carefully brought up in the splitting image of his father, and a daughter, who she had nurtured with her soul.. they had grown up quickly. To the point that they let the world in, and shut her out.

Arnav was more welcome in their world, but he refused to let them hurt his love, his wife.

So the strife had begun. It had only deepened with her diagnosis.

Khushi and Arnav had resigned themselves to a life full of their own love, which they helped spread amongst those who were less fortunate. As Khushi had deteriorated, Arnav had grown stronger emotionally.

The man who had refused to acknowledge the existence of God, was now considered akin to one amongst the people who knew them. He was Khushi's God, in the least.

If there was anything constant in their world, it was their love for each other and her devotion to her Devi Maiyya, whose idol was placed at the entrance of the building.

Up until a few years back, Arnav's laptop had occupied an important place in their lives. But Khushi had learnt not to curse her Sauten (other woman). Aman was important even today.

Their day began with each other, proceeded to helping others, taking care of the trust, and doing odd jobs here and there.. and ended with each other.

Though Arnav was physically getting weaker, he was still considered a charmer amongst the female residents of the Home. And Khushi still stole admiring looks from the various male occupants.

Such was their life.. Many years had passed without them contacting their kids. Family members would visit, but their own kids? No.

It all changed when their grand daughter met them, secretly. She was another Khushi. And soon, their grand kids trooped in for weekly visits. When their parents had found out, they had reluctantly joined in the visits. Their reluctance, however, converted to repentance. And very soon, they were begging Arnav to bring Khushi back to their home.

Khushi refused to leave, not because she was angry. But because this Home, was her abode now. And Arnav was not leaving her side. Till death do them part.

Both of them slowly made their way to their room, waving "Hi" and smiling at most people they saw.

Today was different, special. As if they both knew what was coming.

As they snuggled into each other that night, and whispered their love, the only sounds heard were of two hearts, joined in love, beating in unison.

Dhak - dhak

Dhak - dhak

... - dhak

Dhak - ...

... - ...

---------

Love never dies. The body does. The souls that love, remain entwined forever.

Entry #13

Love's Wondering Ways!

"There are times when you have everything you need and yet to feel lonely. You feel as if something is missing in your life but the dilemma is, you don't know what you need."

Arnav Singh Raizada was finally in the Masquerade party.

Where ever he went, there were media and crowds surrounding him from all ends. He never celebrated any occasion or rather he never got any time to. Being the son of one of the Multi-Billionaire Businessman, he had simply everything in his life yet he felt incomplete.

He wanted to give himself a chance. A chance, to live a moment where he was not the successful business tycoon Arnav Singh Raizada but simply Arnav. A man who needed love to live. He wished to get what he needed the most in his life though he didn't know what it was.

"In the last few moments of this year, I wish that I get what I need the most in my life."

Khushi murmured her wish with her eyes closed tightly and her palms folded against her as she stood in front of a well. It was not any ordinary well but a wishing bell.

Memories of that night when her mother was taking her last few breathes came flooding in her mind. She was 8 years old then and had listened with awe filled eyes as her mother had revealed the secret of the wishing bell to her.

From that day till today, she wished something or the other on every New Years Eve but it had never come true but this time, her heart said it will.

Khushi lifted her heavy white gown which gleamed in the moonlit sky like silver, as she ran towards the road. After few minutes, she stood in the main hall of the Masquerade Party. She slid down her white mask from the top of her head in front of her eyes, covering half her face gracefully.

She enjoyed the Masquerade parties the most. Here you are free to do anything you like. One doesn't have to bother who they are and enjoy themselves without any resistance. She moved to the centre of the stage where many people of her age were dancing.

Arnav's masked face disabled everyone present there to recognize him. He was glad that he was free of any commotion around him. He watched the outside world with fascination where no one had patience or time to care or interfere in other's life.

Arnav's gaze finally landed on an angel who was dressed in a long white gown that flowed all round her. He saw her long hairs blowing in the wind. Her bare milky arms moved with their own accord with the song.

Arnav stood their staring the figure, mesmerized by an aura that was around her. For a moment, it seemed to him that he was lost, he was actually lost in her beauty. As if in a daze, he slowly made his way to her. Just as he neared, he saw the back of her dress slowly opening, revealing her back to him.

Khushi stopped dancing and gasped as she felt a warm and rough hand touch her skin at the back. She was too shocked to the bubbling feeling at the pit of her stomach to react to the situation. Seeing her not reacting, Arnav decided to continue. And before Khushi could realize a thing, her back was pulled flush against a hard chest of a man.

Arnav's palms made their way from her shoulders to her palm and then finally wounded around her petite waist. Khushi could not resist to his touch as much as she wanted to. She slowly closed her eyes and leaned onto him as they swayed to the music.

Arnav took this opportunity to come to her side. Khushi opened her eyes dreamily and stared at him mesmerized. To say he was the most handsome man in the world would actually be an understatement. He was in other words an epitome of sheer perfection. His perfectly masculine body, sharp nose, thinned lips and light subtle made her shiver but what took her breath away were his eyes.

His eyes which had the ability to speak volumes and yet held an aura of mystery around it. Khushi felt her heartbeat go haywire, breathing hitch and her senses went havoc as he came closer to her. Arnav smirked as he saw her reaction to his proximity. Khushi closed her eyes and felt her lips quiver in anticipation of what was to come. But the next second her eyes snapped open in confusion with a jerk because Arnav had zipped her withering dress neatly.

Arnav briskly walked to stand in front of her. But Khushi turned away and ran. She ran out of the large hall running down the stairs quickly but then she suddenly halted and looked back involuntarily. At that moment the clock struck 12, welcoming the first second of the New Year.

The first sight that she saw unnerved her. There stood Arnav Singh Raizada with all his glory, as the moonlight tried to justify his Greek God features.

And then she ran again but this time not away from him but in his direction, right into his open arms. And at that moment they realized that they had finally got what they wanted the most in their life. They felt complete and the moment held still.

Arnav's warms lips descended down to hers, captivating them in a kiss but not before removing her mask and throwing it away. As they kissed each other they could feel an aura of radiance and purity around them.

The missing love had finally made it's wondering away to reach them.

***

Vote please!! 😃

NOTE: Entry #12 & 13 have been added later because I missed their OS but their entries were submitted before the deadline. A PM have been sent to every member who commented before I could add these two entries so I can be fair with everyone because It was my mistake. 😊