Arshi: Before It Is Too Late(Part- 37 Last Part pg 50) 19/7/2014 - Page 29

Arnav is very busy now days... he wants to make partnership with another fashion house which is equally popular but for a reason facing losses. ASR knows that if he can convince them to join hands, together they can achieve a lot of success and then sky is the limit for them.

Khushi can see how he is working day and night so she has convinced herself that may be she is thinking too much, after all she has seen him caring for her, worried for her and shading tears for her. She has also come to know that how great ASR changes him to Arnav and comes in his true self only before her. Mere a few rude words cannot change the truth that he loves her unconditionally beyond any limit. So she will be patient. Though the flashes of her past memory is still bothering her but she trusts him and believes that if anything she needs to know then Arnav ji will definitely come and tell her, not now then some other time... she is ready to wait.

On the other hand Arnav is very careful about Khushi and wherever he is and whatever important work he is doing never fails to check on her once in an hour, which is making Khushi more at ease.

But the real fact is, till the time Arnav was oblivious to the fact that any event can lead her to her forgotten past so when it has started then he wants to be aware of everything happening around her... if anything happens then he wants to be there for damage control.

Still it hasn't occurred to him that it better to be safe than prepared for the worst as the worst has no measure, it can be beyond anyone's imagination, here Arnav's. It is better to come up with the truth rather let her know herself and feel cheated once again.

ASR is successful in his mission. The other company has come to an agreement and has signed the deal. They are launching a joint venture. The designs are already ready. So soon they are going to have a great ramp show followed by a grand party.

This collaboration is also going to be fruitful for Anjali's boutique. Arnav has insisted that her boutique should do the embroidery work as he knows that it is the best choice.

Khushi is in charge of the collaboration work in boutique and Payel is going to help her as the work pressure is huge and it needs extra help. Anjali and Shyam cannot be much help as they have to toss over Anjali boutique and their other garment boutique which is in the name of their son and running exceptionally.

Fortnight passes like smoke and the show is in 5 days. Whole Raizada family except Dadi and Mami, is busy in work and also in preparing the grand show and the party.

In this hullabaloo Khushi mind gets diverted from the recent happenings between Arnav and her. For now she is too busy in her work and also glad that she gets to meet Arnav in her work time too. They manage to steal some time in this hectic schedule to spend for lunch or tea and snacks, which make Khushi almost, forget about her visions. She is too happy to care about when Arnav has yelled on her in past.

The day of the great event arrives. The greatest part of the event is, the Raizada couples and Anjali and Shyam too are going to walk on the ramp to support their dream project in every way. This news has garbed the attention of media and guests. The excitement is reaching in its pick to see them setting the stage on fire.

After a beautiful exhibition of new line of clothes mixture of Indian and western culture... the host welcomes the great couples wearing the exclusive designs, best of the bunch.

First Anjali and Shyam walks on the ramp, Shyam wearing a designer completely Indian sherwani and Anjali wearing a beautiful traditional sari and yes forgot to tell you that their little one is also accompany them on stage wearing a beautiful kurta pajama, designed by Khushi keeping the trend and topic in mind of this show. Ayush in Shyam's arms looks extremely handsome and excited with the attention towards him.

They disappear in back stage when Akash and Payel walk in... Payel wearing a lahenga with a slight twist of west... the blouse is sleeveless and with deep cut in back and forth which ends above her navel... she is not using a dupatta instead it an half long sleeves thick netted jacket is covering the cuts and the lahenga is tight around the waist but it loosens with the length. Akash is wearing banarashi stylish indo western sherwani in a matching color of Payel.
Aksh and Payel walks back and the lights around the ramp dim and two spot light fall on two figure waiting on the entrance of the ramp... the host welcomes Mr. and Mrs. ASR, the show stoppers of the evening.

Khushi and Arnav walk in hand in hand. With their every step the lights start coming back. Every person presents their get awestruck to see the couple complimenting and completing each other. For a sec they just stare them mesmerized by their aura and then the whole area burst in the sound of clapping and with constant clicking of the cameras.

Arnav is wearing a Silver textured black mid length Indo Western Jacket grown on collar with satin piping at bone pockets and lapels, and trouser marching to it. The interesting part of the jacket is the exquisite embroidery work on front side. It is done in royal blue color and almost invisible on the black color jacket without light.

Khushi is wearing wonderful net sari which has been crafted with sequins, kandora on the waist and an enhancing booti work border. It is made of net material in a wonderful wine color with a stylist short sleeve blouse matching with the border color of the sari.

They walk till the end of the stage and entangle each other in an embrace. Arnav encircles Khushis waist with an arm and his other hand cups her face while Khushi's both hands rest on his shoulders. Arnav gives a light kiss on her right cheek to Khushi's surprise. Her eyes open wide in their own accord, conveying the message that this has been unplanned. In reply Arnav shrugs his shoulder winking at her with his devilish smile, making her blush heavily. They come back from their dream world when they hear the loud sound of applaud from the amused Audience. They turn and give a warm smile to them and walk back. They invite the other two pair on stage and they all walk on the ramp together in a triangle shape followed by other models in two lines either side of them...

People don't stop clapping till they disappear in backstage... the host requests everyone to join the grand celebration about to start.

The party starts...
ASR walks in the party followed by Akash and Shyam. They all have changed and each one is looking dashing in their own style wear. No need to tell that the ladies present there are drooling over them and half of them are checking ASR only. Pity those poor girls! Who can resist the urge to drool without blinking when the man is ASR, clad in black Armani suit!!

The boys go in different direction to attend the guests.

ASR is busy talking with a client when Shyam and Aksash come to him. After few minutes when the client moves to other side Akash asks Arnav, "Bhai where is Khushi?"
Arnav answers casually, "May be with Di or Payel... ask them."
Shyam (tensed), "they are also not here."
A frown apperes on Arnav's forehead, "Call Di", he asks Shyam.
Shyam (worried), "I called in her cell. It ringing but she is not taking the call."
Akash (worried too), "even Payel..."
Damn! The only word Arnav utters tapping the keys on his mobile and then he says looking at Shyam and Akash, "It is ringing"... with every ring his tension builds higher... "Come on Damn it! Pick up the phone."... "How many times I have to tell you the calls are meant to be answered."... "Come on Khushi please pick up the phone"... "Damn you Khushi Gupta Singh Raijada, I told you don't ignore my calls"... "Please pick up the damn phone." He keeps on muttering while trying Khushi's number. But no one picks up.
Akash and Shyam are also tried to reach their girls but all in vein.
Before Arnav could say Shyam says, "Let's go Arnav."

They all walk towards the exit. When they are about cross all the lights in the hall turn off. The sudden darkness engulfs the whole area with loud gasp among the guests.

"What the...?" Arnav looks around but nothing is visible only the voices can be heard.

Akash from his right whispers, "What's wrong with the lights now?"
Shaym murmurs, "No idea."
Arnav (irked) "What the...?"... "MANAGER...!" He shouts.
But to their surprise there is a tune echoes across the hall, a birthday song...
Spot lights falls on the huge birthday cake placed in middle...

Arnav wonders and so others and that is when the birthday tune lowers and a musical voice echoes
"Today is a very special day (pause) for me, (The spot light already has moved from the cake to Khushi who is standing near it in a black evening gown looking ethereal)... because it is the same day that God had decided my fate years back... before even my birth, and had sent a guardian angel on this earth on this day... so when I come in this world, he can take care of me."... "Though everyone thought how can he be an angel when he is so rude and arrogant, but that mask of the rude man had fallen only before me and I had seen the soft hearten loving and caring person under the veil, who truly had proved himself the angel for me" ... "I can't thank enough to God to make me this lucky with his presence in my life"... "He did everything to make me happy but I couldn't give much in return so I took this opportunity on this day to thank him and wish him in this fortunate day... (Another spot light falls on Arnav who is still standing near the exit, all lost in her beauty and words, with a little glint of tear in his eyes) ...Thank you Arnav (Khushi starts walking towards him and the spotlight follows) for coming in this world and in my life. (She is at his side looking into his eyes)A very Happy Birth Day to my dearest husband Arnav... (Returning her gaze to the crowd)Singh Raizada..."
Arnav's trance breaks when she holds his hand and guides him to the cake a midst the roaring sound of clapping and whistling, the birthday tune plays in background.

By the time they reach near the cake all Raizadas and Guptas have gathered near it.

Khushi makes him stand behind the cake and gives a knife in his hand. But who will cut? He is all lost in her, though the tears haven't escaped from his irises but his throat has chocked, and his body has lost weight... he is in no state to move or utter a single word. The ASR is truly surprised today to the core.

Understanding his situation Khushi takes his hand and makes him cut the cake. With her touch a lone tear escapes from his eyes and he again starts feeling his weight.

She holds the piece before his lips to take the first bite but he makes her eat it and takes a little form her hand and before anything anyone can speak Arnav takes Khushi in a bone crashing embrace. He holds her so tight to never let her go. Khushi feels short of air but she doesn't mind, this is heaven to her.
When Arnav feels she is gasping, he leaves her immediately and apologizes cupping her face and with concern in voice, "Did I hurt you? I am sorry... I am sorry Khushi..."

Khushi mouths a No shaking her head sidewise and he again hugs her lightly but not for longer cause all wants to wish ASR for his birthday.
Anjali comes and stands beside Shyam, and Payel beside Akash. They have been helping Khushi to plan this surprise.

Everyone comes forward and wishes Arnav but his eyes are still glued on hers. He winks at Khushi, making her eyes wide open and cheeks all red.
He takes the speaker which was lying on the table and looks at her smiling face before saying smirking, "I am ASR, the initial stands as.. A for Arrogant... S for Snobbish, and R for Rude (Khushi rolls her eyes and guests and family chuckle)... okay Wify don't scare me with you big eyes (the voice is playful and but the smile is genuine)... (He looks at the crowd) It was the truth of ASR and I am still the same for the world and I don't regret that, as none has the permission to enter in this real Arnav Singh Raizada, except you (he looks back at her and Khushi smiles lovingly and so the family). "
"So now you see (eyes on Khuhi) I am no angel rather the beast that turned into human with your touch, with your love and only for you. (His expression has changed and he speaks from his heart) You made my birthday special with your presence and you made me lucky with your presence, in my life... so I am the luckiest person on the face of earth now."
Khushi is already in tears and Arnav comes forward and wipes them nodding his head, continuing his speech... "I was late to understand that my happiness, my solace is only in you... but now when I know, I am going to savor it whole my life... I am ASR but not as perfect as the world thinks but I want you to help me to be the perfect man of your life (He spreads his hand and Khushi holds it, promising), the love was there in my heart for you, is there and will be there for you forever, Please don't turn away anytime from this love, I will not be able to breathe then, in return ask whatever you want, even my life (Khsuhi nods in negative and he half closes his eyes assuring)... because it is this love which completes me, us... I have waited for this love for long time, which can make me beyond who I am, from ASR to a person who is the LOVE of someone special... Any time span will be less for our togetherness even a whole life so let's promise seven lives together and forever." With this he keeps the speaker down... no person left in the hall who is not in tears and so Khushi... but ASR is there to wipe them and he did.

Arnav gives a feather kiss on her lips declaring his love for her in font every person there and to the world.

The kiss is so sudden that all including Khushi fail to react, but for seconds and after that the whole area bursts into loud sound of teasing and whistling and clapping. All cheer this couple except one, Anjali... she can see where this is going... this happiness, this love, this surrender all are going to shatter with a mere revelation and she just prays to God that she shouldn't be the one to bring the storm in their life, which can wash off everything from their life.
When Arnav leaves Khushi after giving another tight hug, all notices her tomato color and do not leave a chance to tease her even Arnav, "Khushi", he calls in his usual husky voice and when she looks at him blushing, he says showing her cheeks, "something is there". Khushi innocently touches her skin and asks "where?" Arnav plays along and shows every corner of her face making her rub all her face in turn making it all the more deep.

Khushi asks frustrated," What is it Arnav ji you clean it, I can't find..." Arnav smiles devilish and says, "If I touch then the color will turn redder". Khushi first gets confused but second later when she understands the meaning, seriously she turns redder, if that is humanly possible. It is a sight worth watching and Arnav enjoys it to the fullest.

That is when the music plays and DJ invites all on the dance floor. Arnav spreads his right hand to Khushi and she readily keeps her left hand on it and he takes her to the dance floor with grace.

The song played...

The couples are so lost on the floor in their partners but most are Arnav and Khushi... they are dancing together after long time. They are so close. The moment is so precious. The feelings are mutual. This intimacy they wanted for long. The profound wish to break the barriers is same inside them...

(yeh jo ehsaas hai jo karaar hai

kya issi na hi naam pyar hai...) ... 2

These lines sure brings waves of feelings in both of them

Tinka tinka, zara zara... Zara

tinka tinka

tinka tinka

Next song plays,

The song brings tsunami in their hearts with all the hidden emotions hitting their senses.


Khushi looks down but Arnav trails his hand from her waist to her chin sending shivers down her spine and with his thumb makes her look into his eyes and same way his hand returns in his previous position leaving a trail of fire in wake.


Arnav twirls Khushi and drops her on his left arm and looks on intensely in her eyes.

He brings her up and twirls again and picks her up in the air hugging her lower body. While bringing her down slowly, her petite figure rubs on his masculine body only to raise the urge to touch and feel once again... and it is impossible to resist the feeling anymore for both of them... after Khushi has come back from the dead they have shared everything all emotion except this one, Passion... destructive passion... now they desperately want to feel it in that moment.
Arnav takes Khushi's hand and guides her through the stairs to the elevator and then to the room which is booked for their use in between the party. Others are so engrossed in the dance and in the mood set by the DJ that none notices them leaving and the song continues playing keeping the mood up.

Jaadu Hai Nasha Hai Madhoshiyan Hai... Kahan

Baahon Mein Teri Yun Kho Gaye Hai
Armaan Dabe Se Jagne Lage Hai
Jo Mile Ho Aaj Hum Ko Door Jana Nahin
Mitado Saari Yeh Duriyan
Jaadu Hai Nasha Hai...Khud Ko Chupaao Kahan


Arnav unlocks the room without breaking the eye contact they have been sharing since the dance started. The door opens and Khushi straight goes inside and stands in middle of the lavish suit. Arnav silently closes the door.
The sound of their beating hearts are so loud that they thought it could be overheard by those passing by.
He slowly makes his way to her and hugs from behind. Khushi pulls his arms together to make his grip strong on her. At last this is what she has craved for so long and waited patiently that someday her Arnav ji will be ready to give her what she wanted, he will bless and shower her with his love and the most anticipated day has come. Her heart beats pounces with this thought. She keeps one hand on her chest above her heart and presses hard to stable the erratic beats. Arnav understands her condition and he puts his right hand over her left hand which is resting over her heart and then after few second he twirls her to face him. They look each other in the eyes and Arnav without moving his eyes from her, guides her right hand towards his heart and makes her feel that his condition is no better. Khushi smiles and rests her head on his chest. They hug each other as tightly as possible wishing if they could crawl under each others skins.
Meanwhile Arnav starts dropping wet kisses on her shoulder and trails his lips till her right ear and licks the part behind her ear lobe. The moment he does it she feels strong sensation in her whole body and especially under her lower belly. She tightens her grip on him. Arnav continues his torture. He drags his both hand on her back up and down. He caresses the little bare part of her back with his fingers. His every touch is creating havoc in her body and in his too. He kisses the crook of her left shoulder and finally bites there hard making her cry and thus he leaves his mark on her.
The bite surly doubles the heat in Khushi's body and she digs her nail on his little bare chest. She too marks him as hers. Arnav suppresses the burning sensation of her little act of wildness by pursing his lips, in the next moment he takes his revenge, claiming her lips in passionate yet brutal kiss. He bites her inside out making her groan and then again soothes her pain by licking where he has bit. This passion and love is new to this new Khushi and she is losing herself completely in his effect. If he wouldn't have been holding her tight she would have fallen flat on the floor as her knees feels to her like jelly. Slowly one kiss leads to another and thus the series continues until they both turn mad and had enough... He finally takes her in his arms and places on bed. He sits on top her; admiring her ... Khushi too seems lost in his molten brown orbs.
Arnav bends to take her lips again in his mouth but this time gently and passionately making her craving for more and she equally participates with him to make him crave for her. He slowly drags his lips upon her chin, on her throat and trails it down till her little visible cleavage. Her soft moans are making him loose all his senses. If she is moaning so much in the foreplay then what she will be doing in time of real action... he thinks and then their last love making scenes flashes before his eyes and a smirk appears on his face.

Her hand on his court button brings him back from his stance and he looks down only to find she is taking the buttons off her court... wow this is new... he never knew that she will be so willing to give herself to him. The smirk changes into a broad smile surely and he too helps her undoing the buttons and that is when he hears her saying "I LOVE YOU ARNAV".
****

Khushi is breathing heavily with closed eyes in anticipation. Her lips curve in a beautiful smile and her cheeks reddene. His body weight on her tender parts is creating havoc.
But suddenly she feels herself light. Frowning she tries to understand the reason and shots opens her eyes only to see Arnav has moved aside and now sitting on the edge of the royal bed far from her.
Now what is wrong?
She moves towards him crawling and spreads her arms across his torso from behind, resting her head on his shoulder. Feeling his body stiffening in her touch she peers on his face only to find his head bowed. She steps down of the bed to stand in front of him. Khushi tries to pull his face up to meet her eyes... he doesn't let her. Determined to find out what the problem is, she kneels down before him.
He shuts his eyes tight to not to let her see in them. But her touch on his cheek makes him open them instantly feeling the warmth of her touch, and Khushi gasps in shock to see that redness in his eyes. His face muscle appeared to her stiff and his lips forming a thin line as if to control something from breaking out.
Why is he so much depressed? Did I do something wrong? But what?
He tightens his fists more digging his nails in his skin seeing her watching him confused... Now what would I tell her?
she slowly takes his hands in hers and massages to ease the death grip making soothing circles with the back on the back of his hands. He does loosen them but few drops of water trickles down his face only to land on the back of her hands.
What is it bothering him?
"Arnav, if you don't let your pain out then it only causes more hurt... tell me what is wrong; maybe I can help you... (Pause) when I am sure it is related to something which is not letting you to close the distance between us... (Pause)... Don't you think I also have the right to know and when I am craving to close the gap?" Khushi speaks looking in his eyes with all emotions she is been holding till now, but doesn't let the tears flow to make Arnav feel more guilty, which he is for some unknown reason, already.
Arnav keeps on staring her but Khushi could see the flash of inner turmoil going inside him through his ever expressive eyes.
Finally he speaks in hoarse voice breaking his long silence, "Khushi I am sorry ... but believe me I too want to close this distance but for that I need to confess something... to you, which can change everything between us (the last part he says in his mind) ... but not tonight. You have waited this long then give me this night to prepare myself, for the worst (he concludes in his mind)I promise I will tell you everything tomorrow... I need this time please."
Khushi heaves sigh loud nodding in agreement. She stands on her feet and offers her right hand for him to take. Only Arnav knew how much he needs this support from her to strengthen his weak resolve. Taking her hand gratefully he too comes on his feet.
Take my hand and strength; you have my support... always
Both leave the place. Throughout their walk to the car park Khushi doesn't let go of his hand rather she tightens her grip with all her might giving her silent support to make him realize that she there for/with him... (Always).
Another person who is been listening to this conversation hides behind the pillar wall and waits till they go out of sight.
Arnav drops Khushi in RM and says that he has some work to finish hence he is going to office for some time.
Khushi only nods knowing that he wants to stay alone. She walks up to their room. An unknown fear is gripping her mind and heart... what is it he wants to tell me? Looking at him it seems something big... will I be able to bear it... Devi mayiaa give me strength... I can't lose my love my Arnavji for anything.
Khushi sits on the recliner waiting for him.
Arnav drives through the empty road in dark. Speeding his car in every minute...
Anjali sits on the couch of living area waiting...
Finally around 2 O'clock of night Arnav returns. Not wanting to disturb anyone in the house he slowly and silently moves towards the stair when a call stops him on his track...
"Chotey"
The voice has same intensity, same love, same affection, same care which he was missing from last few months... he was missing his Di... he was missing her calling him "Chotey" just like she did now.
He closes his eyes to let the tear flow which has gathered in his eyes as soon as he has heard the call. He feels a hand on his shoulder.
Turning and he hugs his Di fiercely and Anjali also wounds her hands around him to hold him in a warm embrace. She rubs his back to sooth him knowing well how much he needs this.
After a few moments Anjali speaks, "Chotey you must be hungry... come eat something."
Arnav shakes his head on her shoulder stating No.
Anjali smile faintly and speaks again, "If I feed you then also you will say no?"
It is impossible for Arnav to say no to this that too after so many days so he just follows Anjali.
Anjali brings the morsel near his lips and all Arnav can do is just stare into the space.
he hears his Di saying something and looks up to meet her eyes. Anjali heart cries seeing his condition. Only this evening he was the happiest man on this earth and now looking at him it seems that the word Happiness' doesn't exist for him. The dark circles, the red puffy eyes, the pale face and the dropped shoulder crying loud his broken state.
Controlling her tears Anjali only says, "Khao Chotey" and that is when his trance breaks as he opens his mouth like robot.
While feeding Anjali notices his lost state and understands that he needs his Di to tell him, to guide him, to take him out of his awful state and she does, Chotey I know you are scared... (Arnav distant gaze focuses on her)... and I am too... (Arnav's attention is now on her completely)... but truth has to come out someday and it is better that you tell her before she comes to know herself. (In between she feeds him)... I cannot assure you about the outcome but I will suggest you to prepare for the worst...
Arnav interrupts her in a chocked voice, "I do think the same Di, But Di how can I let her go? I can't think my present and future without her... without her' the thought itself is so horrifying that I get shivers thinking of it and if it comes true then I will not be able to breath... I will not die of course but I won't be able to live... I love her so much Di... I will not be able to live without her Di... I just can't think..." his voice trails off as he hides his face in his palms shaking his head, crying like a baby.
Anjali is in tears too but she wipes them. She can't be weak... she needs to brave for her Chotey... he needs her support.
She keeps the plate down and hugs him from side and says, "I know Chotey you love her more than anything, more than anyone. I have seen your love in your eyes much before you realized it for yourself... I know... and when you love someone so much then you have to keep faith on that love... (Arnav looks up to see her face, which has assuring smile on it)... yes... love can do wonders and you have to believe it, you have to trust your love, if it is strong and pure then it will never go far from you... take strength from your love and tell her everything or else you might have her in your life but your guilt will always hold you back to lead a normal married life with Khushi and she might not like it... (Arnav looks a little shocked and surprised hearing this) I heard you talking in the room ...I was passing... (Pause)... I could sense the disappointment in her voice still she was giving you her support... she is best wife and pure human being, you know that (Arnav chuckles sadly)... when I heard her I knew she eagerly wants to know why you are keeping the distance from her but just being patient for you.. Believe me when I say that don't test her patience so much... she is kind of a person who will listen to the truth bravely but silence will kill her. Now be brave and face her with truth and no matter what I will be with you."
When Anjali finishes her small speech Arnav holds her hands and says with conviction, "Thank you Di, I really needed it... I really needed the courage and now I think I can do this... I can't say I am ready, I will never be for this but I have my Di with me by my side and no matter what happens I will not be alone completely..." saying this he pecks her knuckles and in return Anjali kisses his forehead, in a silent promise...

**

Next Morning Khushi wakes up with a jolt.
She looks at her side to find her Arnav only to see the bedside empty, though the crumpled sheet and duvet are stating the fact that he was there.
Khsuhi scans the whole room but doesn't find his tress. She checks the clock and it way past his jog time but early for his office.
Where is he?
She hurriedly walks inside the washroom to get ready to go down.
Last night she felt exhausted after reaching her room. She suddenly felt all her energy had drained away. She felt like crying hard. The turmoil inside her mind and heart were killing her. She couldn't decide what to do or what to think? Once she even thought of going to Di and ask her what is wrong with Arnav ji. But then she thought if Di had told her that she can ask anything anytime if confused, doesn't mean that she should involve her in THIS. So she scratched that option and sank in the floor. She didn't know how long she sat like that, waiting for Him to return. But after long wait exhaustion took over her and she fell flat on the ground and dozed off. She slept like that, she didn't know how long? She woke up with a start form her uneasy slumber with the sound of doorbell. She knew it was him. She made her way towards the bathroom to change and sleep on the bed.
She so wanted to go to him and hug him tight but she also knew that he needed time and space to come out of whatever problem he is in. The look in his eyes in the hotel room made her realize that he is hiding something BIG and it is breaking him from inside but she didn't want to force him to tell her and decided to wait for him. So giving him his much needed time, she went to sleep on the bed. She waited for him to come in the room but she didn't know when sleep took over her and when he came and again when left.
Khushi comes out of the bathroom all dressed to go down. Her eyes roam every corner of the living and dining room to get a glimpse of him while descending the stairs but he is nowhere to be seen.
Has he gone to office? But why didn't he wake her up? Why didn't he tell her before leaving? What is wrong with this man? Khushi is losing her patience now. Well he has tested it well enough... Now it is time for some quiz show and off course she will be the quiz master and Arnav ji will be the answerable for all her query. Humph.
Taking a reverse gear she walks back to her room to grab her mobile, so she can call and give him a piece of her mind.
When she goes to take the phone from the side table a piece of paper comes into her view under the phone. In her hurry she didn't see it before. She takes the paper and reads the content inside.
It is a note from Arnav ji...
Sorry for leaving without informing you. But you were sleeping so peacefully that I didn't feel like waking you up. You were looking so serene and beautiful.
I am going to Mumbai for a meeting but don't get hyper I will be back by evening. Be ready at 7. We are going out. Where? You will come to know. But DONT be LATE. There is a gift for you in the cupboard. I want you to wear that for out special date.
Love You Always "My Khushi,"
Only "Yours Arnav ji."
A sweet smile appear on her lips which turns in to a grin and in no time that turns into a soft chuckle. She walks to the cupboard hurriedly and yanks it open to find a big packet.
Off course a red sari is there which looks like designed by ASR himself with matching accessories.
The whole day passes in anticipation for a restless Khushi. She impatiently waits for evening and the clock to strike 7.
By afternoon all in Raizada mansion has come to know that she is going out with Arnav for a special date. All tease her like hell, only Anjali keeps herself away in the pretext of office work only to stare at her laptop screen in her room sitting beside Ayush.
When Khushi goes to meet her she manages to force a smile before speaking her heart"God Bless You". In return Khushi smiles widely which only to make her eyes moist. Kissing her forehead with all affection she adds, "My little sister, I wish you to see this happy always."
After passing sometime with Ayush when she is about to leave, Anjali calls her. Looking into her eyes, cupping her face in her hands she says, "Khushi you know if Chotey is my brother then you are my sister and both of you has the same place in my heart. Remember Your Di will be always with you in all your decision and action to support you and help, no matter what" before smiling lovingly...
Feeling a tug in her heart, may be by her words or by the look in her eyes she hugs Anjali with all her might before walking back to her room to get ready for the evening.

Khushi is ready and sitting in front of the mirror checking herself and waiting...

When he doorbell rings exactly at 7 in the evening and she rushes down to open the door before HP can.
She opens the door hurriedly only to find a pair of mesmerized chocolate eyes looking back at her, and the owner of those orbs looking nothing less than Adonis himself.

**

"So are you ready for our Date" his husky voice breaks her stance and she nods with a dazzling smile.
He walks in and Khusi gets confused "aren't we going out?"
Arnav smiles looking at her confused state and says "We are indeed but as I said this date is special so let me take you for a tour of all places which holds memories of us together, good and bad... and the tour start from here, Raizada Mansion... (He spreads his right hand before her)... So Mrs. Khushi Kumari Gupta Singh Raizada will you let me take you for this journey back to time where I will be your guide and story teller"
Khushi understands what he wants to do. In this way he is giving her, her lost memory back so she doesn't miss out of any special moment of their life. She feels overwhelmed but becomes hesitant "but what will others think... if we roam around in the house like that."
Arnav chuckles "none is present at home... you were busy in evening getting ready so you didn't realize that all woman of the house have gone for a satsangh where men have gone for a business party and the servants are on leave for the evening, and before you ask I have planed it all. So don't worry no one will disturb us."
Khushi smiles and feels great on her husband's effort to make this date memorable. She places her left hand on his right and let him lead their way.
While walking Arnav says looking forward, "Khushi this journey has more hurtful incidents then happy ones, (Khushi looks at him with questions in her eyes, but Arnav keeps looking into nothing particular) so I want you to be strong because I will not stop today or back off from telling you EVERYTHING, cause I want to light this weight from my heart once for all and if I fail today, I won't be able to gather the courage to tell you again. He stops on his track so is Khushi. (He looks deep into her eyes and continues) You will have all your answers today, So Khushi ARE YOU READY?"
The same dread she has felt in Di's room comes back to her but she will agree to this, she has to cause she also wants to know what is keeping her Arnav ji to reciprocate her love... and Truth... Only Truth can clear the cloud in their relationship. So she nods positively.
Arnav stares her for a brief moment and then drops a kiss on her temple before continuing to walk with her.
They stop by the stairs and Arnav looks at Khushi intensely a feeling of hurt is clearly visible in his eyes though he is smiling, "this stairs holds many memories of ours but there is one special..."
Arnav goes back to the day when Khushi was about to fall when she bumped into him in darkness. He switches on the music player which is kept on the hall and it plays the song, played that day...
ab jab tere paas main aaya, Ik sukoon mila
Jise main tha bhoolta aaya,
He takes her hand for a dance and sways with the music gently on the stairs but careful that she doesn't triple.
Wo wajood mila
Jab aaye mausam gham ke, Tujhe yaad kiya
Ho...
"This exactly I wanted to do that day." He says with a smile.
Jab sehme tanhapan se, Tujhe yaad kiya
Hmm..dil... Sambhal ja zara
He twirls her around and holds the same way as she was about fall but securing an arm underneath her waist so that she doesn't fall like that day.
Phir mohabbat karne chala hai tu
Dil yahin ruk jaa zara
Phir mohabbat karne chala hai tu
They stare at each other conveying the immense love they feel for the other.
Aisa kyun kar hua janu naa
Main janu naa o..o..
Dil sambhal ja zara
He pulls her off and holds her by her waist "... But the mighty ASR in me retorted on my weakness and I let you fall but believe me it was unintentional. When I saw you fell down these stairs (he looks down with horror as the scene flashes before his eyes) my breathing stopped (he looks back at Khushi)and the next moment I cuddled you in my arms (he shows both his hands like he cuddling a baby now)and wanted to make sure (he cups her face) that you are fine. I am sorry. (He touches her forehead with his while saying sorry and closes his eyes, a lone tear escapes)
Khushi wipes the teardrop, with her thumb shaking her head asking him not to cry "Don't apologize Arnav ji. I know you didn't do it intentionally"
Phir mohabbat karne chala hai tu
Dil yahin ruk ja zara
Phir mohabbat karne chala hai tu"There are so many incident that I should say sorry for, to you and I will apologize for my every single mistake don't stop me today Khsuhi... it is very tough for me and I want your support."
Khushi has no idea what is coming, but she knows one thing she will get all her answers today so she silently nods with a half smile.
They climb the stairs, hand in hand.
Arnav stops her before their bedroom door and look around as if trying to find something and finding the object of his interest he chuckles. Khushi looks at him puzzled. He points a cactus around the corner and starts narrating the incident when she came looking for a file in his room, mistaking it as Anjali's room and saw him half naked. Khushi's cheeks take a shade of pink listening his tale which in turn makes him caress her cheeks lovingly. He feels the softness for a long time before entering the room, where most of the bitter memories lie.

**

Crossing the bed room he takes her to the poolside first. He makes her stand by the pool. Leaving her hand he moves to the switch board. With a single tap the whole pool area lights up with strings of fairy light. Khushi feels surprised and ecstatic. But when has he done this?
As if Arnav is reading her mind as he answers "I did it early morning with help of HP. You didn't notice them in morning light, luckily." he chuckles winking.
Kushi's eyes become moist and she blinks hard to send back the tears, threatening to flow.
Arnav comes near her "Come". He guides them to the recliner by the pool.
They sit on the recliner by the poolside.
Arnav keeps his hold on her possessively and protectively as if holding for his dear life even when they are sitting, well she is his life.
Khsuhi keeps her head on his chest hearing the music of his heart which is beating in sync with hers, feeling the bliss of the moment.
Arnav inhales the fruity smell of her hair and drops a kiss. Resting his chin atop her he continues, "On last Diwali night like an angel you stepped in this house wearing my favorite red. I was mesmerized by your charm. The glow on your face was nothing less than thousands of lamps. I was losing myself in you and again the ASR in me didn't let me. ASR found the best way to keep you away, by humiliating you. I called you a thief..."
Khushi jerks back to see his face and only thing she could see is pain, his eyes are guilty and moist. She waits for him to speak.
Arnav cups her face and looks into her eyes "I am sorry..."
Khushi has never heard such genuine sorry before but before she can open her mouth to say something, Arnav speaks again "I was a fool Khushi to hurt you that way... and you know what I knew I am wrong till I did that... I was afraid of losing myself into you. I had built the shell of ASR with years of hard work and I didn't want it to break by a simple girl like you... but little I knew that you would be the most important girl of my life with time, little I knew that I will find my solace in you, that you will be my salvation..." he keeps his forehead on hers and the tear streams freely from his eyes and so from Khushi's.
But none care to wipe them as Arnav speaks again "But I am glad that you retorted. You didn't listen to my baseless accusations in silence. That day you showed me a different side of yours. You showed me that you can fight, fight for truth and justice. I knew the day; you are no weak as I thought." He smiled through tears so Khushi.
"Here, he whirled his index finger around the poolside, we shared our pasts. Here you made me believe that they live with us in stars and always watch us from their place. You made me realize how to make your weakness your strength. I came to know another side of Khushi, who is mature and brave."
Khushi's smiles widely as she wipes both of their tears.
"You know I drown you phone in this pool in anger on your birth day"
"Hawww... why did you do that?" Khushi asks incredulously.
"Because I was jealous." Arnav says with a smile shaking his head on his action in disbelief .
"Jealous keu?"
"Because you were talking to NK and not me."
"Hawww... par Nanhe ji to mere dost hai aur bhai jaise hai." Khsuhi cannot believe that Arnav ji can be jealous of NK.
Arnav wounds his hands around her neck "I know but that time I was insecure..."
Khushi doesn't ask anything more but looks in his eyes searchingly and Arnav understands, "You will know why I was insecure by the time our date finishes, now let's move to our next destination."
He takes her to their bedroom. They stand in the middle of the room.
"This room has some terrible and good memories... which one would you like to listen first?"
Khsuhi thinks for a moment "let's start with funny memories."
"Okay though they are few... (Sigh)... one day you brought me a cup of coffee and accidentally it fell on my hand... without a fault of yours, you said sorry numerous times and also brought me another cup of coffee in a Sorry written mug. I thought you a Pagal that day... (Khushi pouted)... On the day of holi you forgot to take your clothes in bathroom and came out changing in my clothes which were there before. You thought I will not see but I was here only by the poolside and first time I found how sexy my wife is"
Hearing the word holi Khushi's cheeks turned beetroot color much to Arnav's amusement.
"So th... that... is... the... shirt ...a ...nd... tracks ...you... gave... me...that ... da... day... to ...wear." Khsuhi stammers and Arnav nods positively with a chuckle. Khsuhi hides her face in his jacket as he hugs her tight.
After a while when Khushi comes out of his embrace he sees the glint in his eyes has been replaces with a frown and when he sees her watching him he speaks "you know on the day of Di's baby shower you were dancing with me and suddenly you left and came here. I was angry that you left me there alone so I followed you. I came here and started yelling at you but the next moment you were in my arms, pale, almost senseless, struggling to breathe... (He holds Khushi in his embrace tight and with every word he speaks his hold tightens) I was scared ... the great ASR was scare to death seeing you like that... for the first time I feared of losing you... and the thought made me realize that how important you are in my life... and I realized that I can't think of life without you..."
They come out of the hug and stare each other... "Thank God NK was there... otherwise I never knew that you have asthma and by the time I would have managed to get help, I might have lost you (he looked horrified with the thought)... he informed me about your problem and tend you while I just kept thinking how little I know about you after living so many days with you in the same room and I felt immensely guilty thinking that you might have gone through such situations many a time without my knowledge and my support.. and this guilt still haunts me Khushi... I am Sorry for being such careless husband... I am sorry."
Khsuhi doesn't know what she can say to reduce his guilt feeling so she just kisses his tears away and silently tell him that she has nothing against him for that, after such genuine apology. She takes him in her embrace... consoling him, soothing him, giving him strength.
Finally Arnav becomes sober and he has to as it is just the beginning there are many things to reveal on this night... He asks her to wait in the bedroom and goes down. after a few minutes he comes back and leads her down with him back in the hall.
Khushi finds the center of the hall is decorated by scented candles and rose petals are spread on the floor in a circle. The candle lights mixed with soft moonlight coming through the glass windows has made the atmosphere cosmic... she wonders if this is beginning then what is to expect from the rest of this night.
Arnav comes and speaks in her ears softly and huskily, making her shiver, "On the day of our sangeet I found out that my beautiful wife has a gift of a melodious voice and after 14 years of my mom's death I took out my violin to play along with you..." coming in front of her he holds her hands "will you sing that song for me which you sang that day".
Khushi looks at him apologetically as she says guiltily "I don't remember Arnav ji which song..."
Arnav doesn't let her finish as he keeps his forefinger on her lips and shushes her. He leaves her hand and walks towards a corner and comes back with a violin in his hand. Looking at her eyes he starts playing slowly and it doesn't take Khushi a long time to recognize the song...
Ajeeb Daastaan Hai Yeh
Kahan Shuru Kahan Khatam
Yeh Manzile Hai Kaunsi
Na Voh Samajh Sake Na Hum...
She sings and he plays along. Both drowning into a world where only they exist and their love.

**

And oh! before I forget.. if you don't receive PM for this one just come back on Saturday to check the update... any ways we are almost there.😉