Just because I was THE ONE to dig nails to peel my heart off of me, doesnt mean that my body and soul are dancing in joy to have the new found emptiness...
Khushi, Here is your speech notes. The first page has bulleted list with points you ne...
I dont need it NK. This year annual meeting is going to be different. Khushi handed over her meeting notes to NK sporting a pleasant smile.
How different? What are you talking about? NK asked suspiciously as she climbed up the steps to the dais of the company's huge conference hall.
This day of the year is typically set aside for the company annual meeting to disclose BW Industries annual report. Every year it is hosted in grand celebration with giveaways, gifts, dance, music, exotic food, and of course with lots of affection and care from the management as each employee came with a baggage of bitter past.
Taking the mic into her hands, spreading the warm smile, Khushi started her impromptu speech, 3 Years..Wow! Time flies when you dont want to stop your feet. It is an amazing feeling to stand here and take pride in what we all have started 3 years ago, BW Industries. The name BW means more than I could sum it up in bunch of adjectives. I sincerely thank each and everyone for your tremendous support and dedication to this company.
3 years, 8 branches! Unbelievable and none can beat that! So everybody give it up for all of us who were and are part of this company. All employees stood and gave standing ovation to the whole company, many breaking down into tears as this company had nothing less than a lifeline in a stranded desert.
This annual meet is going to be very unconventional from previous years, as I am not going to spend much time in details. I have very important announcement to make, which I will do at the very end. HR should email the Annual report within a week but to summarize it where we are, We opened 3 additional branches last year while growing revenue to 168%. Though we took big bold steps in opening more branches, declaring the fundamental shift in the business, our marketing team did splendid job helping me identify some of the best clients in the state, without compromising the quality of service we offer. I couldnt be more proud of you guys this moment. The Services team led by Payal Krishna, you guys never fail to amaze me. Khushi pointed to Payal and clapped for her, while Payal accepted the appreciation with a glee.
Few announcements: Dont believe the rumors, the company is very much private, will never be made public. BW is mine and will always stay mine.We are shooting to open 2 more branches by the end of this year. In addition, here is the best news, by the year end, we will be providing onsite day care facilities for your kids. In-office employees will be allowed to spend 2hrs of their day time with their kids. Employee Benefits team will follow up with the details once finalized.
Lastly, I will be taking step back from the position for next quarter or two. And this week is my final week before my time off.
The hall roared in murmurs while NK and Payal looked at her in shock from behind the screens, as she continued.
For personal reasons, I need some time off to myself. I may not be very active in day to day operations but I will be very much available if need be. In my absence, I would like to appoint the most able man in this company Mr. Nand Kishore as acting President and he shall take decisions on my behalf.
Lets give a huge round of applause and welcome NK to take the chair...My friend, well wisher who helped me reach these heights...Khushi stepped back and gestured NK to come to stage while he looked at her baffled and shocked.
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With bunch of files in one hand, diaper bag in other hand, Khushi entered the first day of her office carrying her 3 month old son in sling wrap hugging to her chest.
No matter how many steps of success Khushi climbs up in her life, NK would never forget THE KHUSHI he saw walking into her office the first day. Determined, aggressive, adamant and she always came across as very angry. Angry at something which became her striving force to win.
For a woman of that age, she basically had no life but spent most of the time in that cozy office room, shopping for clients, taking care of her son and ending the day with late night lessons on new business to the women who became her army expecting no salary but her love. NK would get exhausted but she would never sit, continuously carrying the months child to her chest, and running around the city to meet new clients. Being novice in the field, scared of putting so many lives on street, her only aim was to make money ethically. If the world by then associated Khushi as young and aggressive entrepreneur, NK came across her as the most vulnerable woman who made constant effort to hide her insecurities. No one except NK had noticed her sudden meltdowns, in the corner of her office, hiding her face to the wall from the world, holding her son. It was one time NK accidentally noticed and the image secretly remained in his memory till date. The reasons of her anguish unknown, he never dared to sneak into her private world. The woman he is seeing today has come a long way from the corner of the office room to the 10,000Sq.Ft Conference Hall.
NK turned with the knock on his door and he instantly jumped up in anger. What the hell was that Khushi? NK screamed inside her office, not approving her decision.
Calm down NK. I needed to do this.
But why?
I need to take care of certain things that I dont wish to discuss at this point. She said fixing herself green tea.
Dont mind me saying it. You are losing your sane mind seriously! Do you think this company will survive without you.
I am not leaving anywhere NK. I will keep in touch with you every single day. This company means a lot to me and I wont let it go down. I need someone who knows in and out about this company. I dont want to deal business matters with anyone but one person and I chose that person as you. Shut up and take the seat without going melodramatic. Khushi fumed slamming the files on the desk.
NK took deep breath trying to control his anger. He had seen the woman grow before his eyes and it scared the sh*t out of him to manage the company without her guidance. Trying to make her see his point, he politely approached and sat before her, maintaining safe distance as he learnt quite well over the years that she dont appreciate men at close distance.
Khushi, lets keep everything aside. Do you remember the day we bagged our first contract?
Her lips curved into smile remembering the day she tasted the first fruit of her success, the very first time after separation she subconsciously rushed to the penthouse to share her win to Arnav. But Alas, she turned her heels back as her conscience slapped her hard, reminding her decision, the letter, the moment she entered premises.
Khushi..
Hn..Sorry..Khushi looked flustered and questioned what NK was saying.
Khushi it took 112 days for you to bag the first contract. Do you remember how lunatic you turned counting the days every single night the moment that clock chimed 12? Do you remember those nights you used to sit all hours to give the best quote constantly estimating including the pennies involved.
Khushi with her eyes focused on the rim of the cup remembering the mentally exhausting days of her life to sustain.
You started this journey with 50 people who had no idea what comes after alphabet A. And this day just look around what you have achieved and you are trying to handover all these to me? A pimp turned business man? I will be honest I am not that Khushi who worked her ass of in the mornings roaming the streets for contracts hanging her son to her all the time, and yet survived to give night lessons to the women you saved...And amidst all these, you may have but I havent forgotten the times you used to just blank out and sit in a corner of your small office...ofcourse for reasons you dont want to share...
NK..why are we discussing this.
I am trying to understand how the hell you think I will manage.
Keeping the cup aside, she leaned back to her chair and spoke in almost pleading tone, I have started all these for a very strong reason, but today I learnt after 3 years that the reason is nothing but chimera and its breaking down each passing second. I need to hold it tenderly before it melts down to nothing. You have been with me at my worst times. And you have no idea what a strength you had been all through these years. If you cant, I dont know who else will. Please NK. I cant trust anyone else and hand this over.
NK looked at her skeptically.
You are the best and of course after me! She smiled pleading her case.
NK shook his head in disbelief, nodding his consent. You are on my speed dial from this moment. You called for it, you better speak to me one hour every single day to guide me otherwise this company will go down. I dont have much confidence in me.
I DO...
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Ma'm Ms. Anjali Singh Raizada and Mr. Aman Verma are here to see you. Deena intercom'ed Khushi who was wrapping up her meeting with Sapna.
Send them in! Khushi gathered the pile of files and shoved it onto the wall rack simultaneously speaking to Sapna. So decide the 2 days you want to work and rest you can save it for your studies. Here are the college brochures I got for you. Take a look and let me know what interests you.
Khushi gestured Aman and Anjali to come inside when they knocked on the door. Walking Sapna to the door, Khushi said, Call me any day, any time if you need to speak to me. And we have interviewed 3 families who are interested. After the final assessment, I will let you decide. With that she sent away Sapna and closed the door behind her.
After exchanging pleasantries, Anjali questioned about the girl who just walked away. Khushi not revealing all the details, simply said that Sapna is looking for good family to adopt her daughter.
While Anjali kept Khushi busy in talks, Aman checked out the tall windows and abstract art of a woman holding her man on her lap...That painting brought a huge grin on his face as he could imagine his buddy finding solace in her.
Just stopping by to inform you that we are getting married tomorrow. Anjali stated with remorse filled voice as she couldnt invite Khushi to the wedding.
Congratulations to you both! You will not have any problem from my side.
Khushi, thats not..
Anjali its OK. I understand completely. You guys should not worry about us much. Trust me, I got this, I will handle it.
Thats right, all set Bhabhi?
Yupp, I think so..In fact, yes I am all ready. Khushi replied in glee while Anjali looked at them puzzled. But that took backseat and a nagging question about AdiNav danced in her mind ever since she entered the building. Khushi, I was reading online about AdiNav Foundation, we will be glad to contribute.
I am very humbled with your gesture but I dont accept donations. I dont like to extend my hand in need to serve these foundations, be it from anyone. I am sorry. Khushi politely refused.
Oh...Anjali exclaimed while Aman looked surprised at Khushi. Any reason? Anjali asked as an aftermath to which Khushi gave a casual shrug dropping the matter right then and there.
Unable to control the urge to know the reason behind AdiNav, Anjali finally questioned, Why AdiNav? I mean the name, if I am not wrong why Adi after all that happe...
Thats Adarsh, MY SON and Arnav, 2 most important men in my life! Khushi brusquely cut her off with stern smile. It wasnt easy for her to talk as simply as she did knowing the connection between the man who screwed her everything and the people who sat in front.
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I am tangled in the knot of your memories. Either relieve me wiping them off my life, or become part of me threading yourself into the knot...Whatever it is, do it quick and do it with care because my heart is dying...living its final moments beating only for you...
Next day...
Locking the brakes and jerking the gears, Arnav brought his pristine white Audi to halt infront of Mahalakshmi temple. Coming around the car, Arnav rang up Aman to find out if everything is ready for Anjali to arrive. Upon Aman's confirmation, Arnav opened the door and held his hand out to Nani who took front passenger seat.
Nani gifting him a warm smile, stepped down with his help and her walking stick. Coming around the other end of the car, Arnav opened the door to Anjali.
Draped in Orange red Net saree embroidered with intricate zari thread and leaf work, Anjali stepped down the car like timeless beauty giving her hand to Arnav as he opened the door. The heavy silver border caught in the toe nail didnt let Anjali to step down properly. Arnav gesturing her to stop bent down to move the thick patch out of her way. Arnav looked up to see as a drop of tear slammed on his cheek bone. Instantly getting up on his feet, he chided Not Again...
Anjali dabbing her tears looped her hand into his arm and hugged him closely while Nani took the other side of him. His one hand intertwined with Nani's and the other supporting Anjali's nervous frame, the three made their way to the temple stairs in silent thoughts.
Why do I feel that I am going away from you? Anjali questioned resting her cheek on his arm possessively.
Wrapping his arm around her shoulders, He pulled her closer kissing her forehead, assuring her in the best way he could in silence. Do we have to stay close to be close?
Nahi, but..
Relax Di... Look at him, he looks like he just gulped a barrel of energy drink. Arnav teased pointing to Aman who stood at the head of stairs, trying to change her mood.
Anjali slapped his arm giggling but at the same broke into tears. Gently giving Nani hand to Aman who approached them, Arnav wrapped his arms around Anjali and hugged her in silence. Both remained quiet for a moment, one scared of the future and the other detached to the same.
He is the best man a woman can have. You are in safe hands... Arnav said fondly brushing his palm on her arms comforting her, pointing at Aman who stood few feet away with Nani and his mother Mrs, Varma.
She smiled and nodded blushing at Aman who glanced at her with smirk on his lips.
Chalien? Arnav asked wiping her tears.
Anjali nodded as Arnav led her inside the temple and exchanged pleasantries with Aman's mother and his relatives.
Aman and Anjali settled to get married in temple albeit their initial decision was to go for Court wedding. Court wedding needed a month wait and a notice to be put up in the bulletin board; so the couple had changed their mind to go for simple small ceremony at temple. And so here they are looking as gorgeous as they are!
Arnav slipped her hand to Aman and took the position next to exhilarated Nani. Arnav looked over his shoulder to see if Nani is truly happy with Anjali's decision. For last 48hrs, he had asked her countless times and every single time she assured him that she is perfectly fine with Anjali decision. If there is one thing he loved in Nani, that is her simplistic approach to life and the way she moulds herself to the situation. Something he had learnt over the years silently observing her.
As Priest recited vedic slokas, Aman leaned to Anjali and whispered, Who are you?
Anjali baffled & scowled at Aman as if he lost his mind.
Where is my Gundi Anjali? You look similar but not quite my Anjali. Aman tried to ease her nerves and it did work. She looked down giving a soft chuckle.
Subtly touching his lips to her ears, he whispered, I am glad you asked for fast-track wedding straight to tying knot and sindoor, because..He paused as she waited impatiently... You look stunning and I cant wait!!! Anjali blushed nervously fidgeting with her fingers. She thanked her stars next moment as Priest bothered her hopeless romantic soulmate.
The 2-step wedding ceremony went by breeze as Aman concluded it adorning Anjali's vermillion with Sindoor. Ignoring the priest next set of words, Aman cupped her face and kissed her forehead whispering,
You are the best thing happened in my life. I will always love you with all my heart.
Happy tears spilled over her cheeks as she pulled him into an embrace. Arnav was right, He is the best man Anjali could ever wish for, the man who never said NO to her decisions regarding their relation. If their relation sustained so much emotional trauma, one has to give it up to Aman with the way he held onto her without feeling pressured under the circumstances. Because he knew there cant be another Anjali who wouldn't care what world thinks even at very young age and would stand by him every treacherous step like she did when his dad passed away.
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Sindoor!
Mere red color for people who dont value it! Arnav Singh Raizada was one among them until Khushi entered his life only to change his opinion gradually, each time destiny played its role bringing them together again and again, binding them with more powerful vermilion, Blood!!! If he takes a moment to ask himself when was the time they bonded into a relation, his heart without a question would scream the time and day they met in Tirupati picking on each other. As smart and shrewd man as he is, he was too naive to understand that fact until he filled her maang, until he religiously married her. As Aman took the pinch of Sindoor in his hands, Arnav's eyes evasively dropped to the floor, forbidding the memory of his beautiful bride. But his insensitive mind was too sharp and quick to flash the memorable moments behind his closed eyes.
The rims of her eyelids beautifully draped in dark Kohl, powdered with pink and golden hues lowered in shy, as his padded thumb gently caressed the abandoned tip of her forehead with the Sindoor. For the reasons unknown back then, Arnav took a moment to watch the hue of vermilion spreading across her cheeks as his own hand dropped to his lap in defeat to to her beauty. The drop was slow, dramatic yet a bit jerky which made her lift her lashes to meet his eyes. The subtle jerk that he sure would be invisible to naked eye captured only her attention and that astonished him. The curious shift of her gaze between his hand and his eyes proved him instantly that she IS THE woman who could read him close with his simple gestures and without utter of a word.
Those times were not in my control & happened without my aware...but this one...I am fully aware of what I am doing now on this day and I do not regret it a bit.
The liberal spread of fancy color on her parting followed by three knots around her neck , suddenly seemed to be too meaningful in his life and the person who owns it turned out to be more deserving and important than anyone else in his life. The emotion filled his heart that moment was too sudden and was worth dying for.
Arnav took an overwhelming inhale of breath as the vivid memories as fresh as blooming flower, forced him to keep her in his thoughts as he remembered Sindoor on her parting when he saw her in last 2 days. His face twitched in disapproval questioningly as she had never worn it when they were in relation. A small and new change in her didnt go well with the memory photograph of his Khushi and so again brought out his stubbornness to shove her away from his thoughts.
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The newly wedded couple touched Mrs. Verma's feet, as the lady kissed her new daughter-in-law, You gave me the best daughter anyone could have. Welcome home beta!
Mom..Brake on your emotions! Aman chided playfully as he led blushing Anjali to Nani.
Nani hugged Anjali whispering in her quivering voice, You made me so happy beta.
Thank you Nani for understanding and I am sorry we couldnt do as you wished...
Anjali, what matters is whom you are marrying not how you are marrying. And I cant express in words how happy I am for choosing the man you chose. Make sure you dont trouble my ex-boyfriend. Nani winked at Aman.
Dont you dare call yourself EX. I am MAN and quite capable to handle 2 ladies...Aman gleed earning slap from his mother.
First learn to handle your Pajama. Came Arnav's snide remark from behind pointing to the drawstrings that were hanging down threatening to kiss floor anytime.
Aman shamelessly checked if everything at place and walked over to Arnav grinning at the ladies. The ladies rewarded him the dramatic roll of their eyes to his silly public nuisance.
While the ladies got busier planning Anjali's House welcoming ceremony, the buddies took a moment and stared at each other before Arnav opened his arms for a hug.
Giving into brotherly hug, Sorry to keep you waiting for this moment! Arnav apologised sincerely for the years Aman had sacrificed choosing him over Anjali. I will never forget what you have done for me!
Pulling out from the hug, Thank YOU for making it possible. If not you, I dont think I would have gotten her...
Arnav giving her nonchalant shrug, It was about time! You guys have had enough!
Arnie, ek baat kehni thi. I admire the man in you. Always stay the way your are! I just hope you give yourself a chance!
Congratulations once again! Arnav smartly pushed the topic away giving friendly fist while Anjali joined them.
Ready? Aman asked hugging her sideways.
Anjali nodded and asked Arnav, Can you walk me to the car?
While Arnav obliged to her request, Aman excused himself to give them sometime alone.
Stepping down the stairs, his silence brewed painful tears in her eyes. I am going to miss you.
We will keep in touch. was Arnav's reply after much thought seconds.
Anjali shook her head in dismay. I wish you could be in Mumbai for good.
He remained silent taking her hand to help her take the last step down.
When are you leaving?
3 weeks! Arnav replied.
You are going to be very far from us. Its very upsetting. Anjali sighed.
I am only a flight away. You just need to give me a call, I will be here if you need me. Arnav assured pulling her into side hug as they walked to the car.
Anjali's eyes glistened with hope, cupping his face, Will you listen to me once?
Understanding her interest of subject Arnav was about to protest when she uttered, I promised Aman that I will not interfere in your personal space unless you let me.
Arnav flabbergasted and stared at her as she continued. How you want to lead your life is your decision. I just want you to be happy. Real happy inside out!
She kissed his forehead and hugged him breaking down to tears...I am going to miss you Bhai...Arnav remained silent with no words to express how much she has supported him in last 3 years.
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Note: Check out Thread on Wednesday for next chapter teaser....Page info of the teaser will be added on the Thread title...Will not send PMs for the teaser😊
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Last but not least, Sweetheart Meenu, this update on your name...Thanks for all your support and motivation...Happy Birthday Princess...
Edited by deepthiya - 9 years ago
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