A/N: I was pleasantly surprised to see that majority of the readers liked the previous part. Some even went on to say that it was the perfect comeback! I was totally not expecting this kind of a response. And I'm really glad that you all liked it so much! Thank you very much for the lovely comments! And also for the birthday wishes! I've replied to all of those who wished me in the previous pages. Coming back to the previous part, most of you liked the way ArShi resolved their fight. But many of you had an issue with Arnav's rude behaviour. One of the readers said she wants him to regret, another said Khushi should also regret her hasty decision,yet another said Khushi is very opinionated. Firstly,thank you for the honest feedback! I'll keep these points in mind. And I'll try my best to resolve these issues as & when I can. For now,we move on to..
Translation for Part 108
Warning: Some portions of this part are mature in content. Therefore reader's discretion is strongly advised.
Moments after the patch up,Arnav fed Khushi with his hand.
Once she was full,he took her to the bedroom in his arms.
Arnav: Sit here. I'll be back in a jiffy!
Khushi: Where are you going?
Arnav: I'm goin to fetch the first aid box. I left it in the kitchen.
Khushi: Alright.
Arnav: You sit here. And listen..
Khushi: Yea,tell me?
Arnav: I'll tidy up the room after comin back. You dont have to do it,okay?
Khushi nodded before he left.
When he returned,Khushi told him that she wanted to play the song of her choice.
Arnav(surprised): Right now?
Khushi: Yes,right now. We wont get time later on since Amberji will..
Arnav: Not be comin today!
Khushi: What?
Arnav: You heard me. The landline rang while I was returnin with the first aid box..
Khushi: Was it Amberji?
Arnav(shakes his head): It was the landlord who had called to inform that Amber has taken a day off.
Khushi: What about her salary?
Arnav: She'll get it tomorrow! But the main thing is that you dont need to worry bout Amber now.
Khushi: But I'm still worried about lunch! And,now that Amberji is on leave,I'll have to wash the dishes,the clot..
Arnav(interrupts): No need! She'll do all that tomorrow.
Khushi: Will we put wet clothes in our suitcases?
Arnav: You have a point! Fine,I'll wash the clothes in the washing machine. Right now we should be preparin lunch. We can listen to the song once we're thru with lunch,right?
Khushi: I thought we'll.. I mean after lunch we'll..
The color of her cheeks made sure Arnav understood what she left unsaid.
Arnav(smirks): Okay,fine! Bring it on!
Khushi: What do you mean?
Arnav: I mean lets dance to your song right now.
Khushi: No,no! I just want you to listen to the song.
Arnav: Then.. what bout the dance?
Khushi: We'll do it in the evening,on the song chosen by you!
Arnav: Fine.
Khushi: Can I use the laptop?
Arnav: Sure!
He held her hand when she got up.
Arnav: I'm.. really sorry! (kisses her hand)I never meant all that I said this mornin. But I really meant what I told you
a while back. The laptop is yours as much as its mine. You can use it whenever you'd like to!
Khushi: Thanks!
Arnav: I hope you're not miffed with me?
Khushi: No. I was just reminded of.. what you'd said when I saw.. the laptop. Thats why I thought of asking for your permission. Regarding what I'd said this morning..
Arnav(interrupts): That was absolutely right! Our choices wont be the same everytime,I get that. I'll get that chemise exchanged after lunch.
Khushi: No,let it be. As it is we're going behind schedule. You'll waste a lot of time if you go to the boutique now. Now that you've bought it for me, I'll wear it.
Arnav: Why should you wear it when you dont like it? Let it be. I'll give it to Aman.
Khushi(frowns): To Amanji?! Why?
Arnav: Coz he'll give it to our assistant designer. And the AD will use it for some model.
Khushi: Oh,okay..
Arnav(smiles): What did you think?
Khushi(ignores his question): I'll go & start the song..
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Khushi sat down next to Arnav on the bed as the song started..
Female: O saathi re,
Din doobe na!
Arnav was about to take her hand in his when he heard the first line & stopped.
His eyes went to Khushi who was looking at him with a forlorn expression.
Female: O saathi re,
Din doobe na!
Aa,chal din ko rokein,
Dhoop k peechhe daudein,
Chhaaon chhooye na.
O saathi re..
(Translation: O my companion,
The day should not end!
Come,let us stop the day,
Lets chase the sun,
Dont let the sunlight touch you,
O companion!)
He wrapped an arm around her as the male voice repeated the first stanza.
Khushi placed her head on his chest & wrapped an arm around his waist while the song continued in the background.
Male:Thakaa-thakaa sooraj jab
Nadi se hokar niklegaa,
Female:Hari-hari kaai pe
Paaun padaa toh fislega.
Male:Tum rok k rakhnaa,
Main jaal bichhaaun.
Female:Tum peeth pe lenaa,
Main haath lagaaun.
Male:Din doobe naa..
Khushi lifts her head & stares at Arnav.
Female:Teri meri atti-batti,
Daant se kaati katti,
Re jaiyyo naa!
O peehu re..
(She cups his cheek)
O peehu re,
(Arnav holds her hand)
Naa,jaiyyo naa!
(Translation: Male: When the tired sun
Will come out of the river,
Female:If it steps on the green moss,
It will slip(and fall down.)
Male:You try to stop it
While I'll lay the trap.
Female:You carry it on your back,
While I'll help you with it.
Male: The day should not end..
Female: Our fights and make up sessions,
Complete with bites & kisses,
Please dont go!
O my dear..
O my dear,
No,dont go!)
They continued to stare deep into each other's eyes.
Female:Kabhi-kabhi yoon karnaa,
Main daanton aur tum darnaa!
A smile appeared on Khushi's lips which seemed on reflect on Arnav's face.
His lips went up on one side forming that lopsided grin which she loved.
Male:Ubal pade aankhon se
Feeke paani ka jharnaa!
(A shy Khushi lowered her gaze)
Female:Tere dohre badan me
Sil jaaungi re!
(Arnav lifted her chin & she reluctantly met his eyes)
Jab karvat legaa
Chhil jaaungi re!
(Arnav could read the naked desire in her eyes)
Male:Sang le jaaungaa!
(Arnav leaned closer to her)
Teri meri angni-mangni,
(He placed his mouth on hers)
Ang sang laagi sangini!
(Khushi grabbed the back of his head with her right hand)
Sang le jaaunn..
O peehu re..
(Translation:Female: On some occasions,
We'll do it this way,
I'll be the one scolding you
And you'll be the one feeling scared!
Male: A waterfall of tasteless tears
Will emerge from my eyes!
Female: I'll cling to your body
As though I've been stitched to you!
So I will get hurt,
Everytime you change sides!
Male: I'll take you along!*wherever I go*
Our engagement and union,
My partner is attached not just to my body
But also to my soul!
I'll take you along..
O my dear..)
Arnav cradled her head with one hand while he grabbed her breast with the other & pushed it out of her chemise.
The thin straps of her chemise gave way as Arnav liberated her breasts only to captivate them in his hands.
His fingers were warm,hard,desparate and far from gentle.
Yet Khushi did not protest as they cupped,pressed,pulled and rubbed her.
She could only moan into his mouth.
He pulled her onto his lap after jerking the robe off his body & flinging it on the floor.
She groaned as her lower body met his growing erection.
He kissed her face thoroughly before moving on her neck.
She recieved his bites and kisses with equal enthusiasm.
He then shifted his attention to her soft,inviting arms.
She opened her eyes when he stopped just above her left wrist.
"I'm fine..", said she, although Arnav heard it as "Dont stop!"
"I'll take care",he replied & Khushi thought she heard "I wont!"
He kissed her injured hand tenderly as he held it lightly in his hand.
Then he placed it on his chest.
Arnav: Comfortable?
Khushi: Yes..
He wrapped an arm securely around her waist as he pulled her down with him.
She cradled his head with her right hand even as his body landed on the bed with a thud.
But Arnav was nonplussed!
He pushed the chemise off her hips & she kicked it when it reached her ankles.
His hands went down the curve of her hips and stopped at her pert,round bottom which recieved a squeeze.
Khushi took his mouth in a sensual kiss as his hands rubbed her derriere.
The kiss was constantly interrupted by his erection,which poked her incessantly.
Breaking the kiss,she pushed herself down so as to reach the same level as the interrupter.
Arnav: Careful!
Khushi: Dont worry! Nothing will happen to me!
She grabbed his member with her right hand & took it in her mouth.
Arnav's head sank deeper into the matress as her tongue went up & down his length.
Her fingers did not leave the chance to tease him simultaneously.
A throaty groan left his mouth when he reached the edge.
Khushi stopped what she was doing and looked up at him only to find him looking at her.
No words were exchanged yet Khushi knew what he wanted of her.
She sat up slowly,without taking the support of her left hand.
Then she straddled him and guided his member to her entrance.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
ArShi went straight to the bathroom once they were through.
Khushi(points to the bandage): The bandage will get wet while bathing..
Arnav: Doesnt matter! I'll tie another one.
Khushi: Okay.
Khushi waited while Arnav removed his robe and threw it in the laundry basket.
Then he approached her & removed the dupatta covering her shoulders.
Khushi took the torn straps of her chemise in her hands while she looked at Arnav.
Khushi: Who will stitch these?
Arnav: I will stitch them.(winks)Every single time!
Khushi smacks his arm while Arnav proceeds to remove the chemise.
Arnav: I'll get you a strapless chemise next time.
Khushi(throws dupatta into the laundry basket): Yeah,why not!? That'll make your work easier!
Arnav(throws chemise into the laundry basket): Right!
He started the shower gently at first,allowing the water some time to warm up.
When he felt it was adequately warm,he allowed it to spray water in full speed.
Khushi shivered slightly as the water cascaded down her body.
Arnav: Is it okay?
Khushi(stepping aside): No. It's not warm enough..
Arnav did what he was told almost instantly.
Arnav: Now?
Khushi extended her palm & felt the water on her fingers.
Khushi: Yes,this is fine.
Arnav: Come here..
When Khushi approached him,he asked "First shampoo or first shower gel?"
Khushi(surprised): Will you use your bottle wala soap for me?
Arnav nods while picking up the bottle of shower gel from the shelf.
Khushi: Then i'm gone!
Arnav(turns to her): What do you mean?
Khushi: I mean.. (lowers her gaze)Your fragrance will emanate from my body throughout the day.
Arnav(smirks): Thats precisely what I want!
Khushi(looking at him): Really?
Arnav wrapped an arm around her waist & pulled her towards himself.
Then he kissed her hard & long.
The rotating shower head sprayed water on & around them.
But that did not deter them.
They broke the kiss only when they felt out of breath.
Khushi struggled to look into his eyes as the water fell on her face.
Khushi: Stop.. the.. shower.
Arnav: Why?
Khushi: Coz its.. not allowing me.. to see.. you.. properly!
Arnav: Okay,wait a sec..
He turned to her once the waterspray ceased.
The sight in front of him mesmerized and aroused him at the same time.
Khushi was no less mesmerized. Or aroused,for that matter!
Her mind took her back in time to that day when she had challenged him indirectly in Lakshminagar's akhaada.
More importantly,when he had emptied the glass of water on his face.
The sight of water dripping from his hair and face had made her heart flutter then like it fluttered now.
As her eyes took in the gorgeous view,she felt he looked much more handsome now than he had looked that day.
Back then it was only his face & hair.
Today the water was dripping from his entire body!
Khushi's eyes travelled down,past his adam's apple down his wet chest and chiselled abs.
Before she could gaze any further,she felt Arnav's lips on her damp locks.
As she looked up,he kissed her parting.
Then her forehead,her eyes,her red nose and crimson cheeks recieved his kisses.
Contrary to what she was expecting,her mouth recieved only a small peck.
Arnav chased the water droplet which ran down her chin,her swan neck until his mouth caught it at her cleavage.
Khushi grabbed his head with her right hand as his mouth devoured her breasts.
Arnav kneeled down before pressing kisses to her slim waist.
Khushi moaned his name when he nipped her navel with his teeth.
It only encouraged Arnav who went further down,kissing every inch of her skin.
Her knees buckled when his lips touched her wet core.
She grabbed his shoulders with both hands and yelped.
Arnav got up immediately and took her wounded hand in his.
He opened the bandage hastily & checked the wound.
Khushi hissed when he touched the wound.
Arnav looked at her with eyes brimming with regret.
Arnav: I'm so sorry,Khushi! I dunno how it escaped my mind? I.. I jus got carried away..
Khushi: even I didnt think of it! Hum bhi.. carried away.
He kissed her wound gently before lightly holding her hand.
Arnav: I'll take very good care of it,I promise!
Khushi smiled in response.
Arnav: Come,lets have a bath..
Khushi: Why? a.. I mean.. arent we..?
Arnav: Nahi Khushi. Its way too risky!
Khushi: I'll take care!
Arnav(shakes his head): Still.. I cant take a chance,Khushi.. (checks himself) I mean,sweetheart..
Khushi(disappointed): Well,okay.
As Arnav picked up the bottle of shower gel from the floor,Khushi cursed herself.
Khushi(thinks): You're so stupid,Khushi! You didnt think twice before burning your hand! Now niether will you be able to bathe with honey,nor will you be able to cook with him. And.. you wont even get to make love to him!
She clicked her tongue in despair.
Arnav: What happened?
Khushi hugged him to herself.
Arnav(rubs her back): Do you realize it now?
Khushi: Realize what?
Arnav: The result of takin impulsive decisions?
Khushi nods while breaking the hug.
Arnav: Before you take sucha silly decision next time,you..
Khushi(interrupts): I will be reminded of this day &.. this wound. And that wont allow me to make any decision in a haste.
Arnav: Exactly! So I'm not the only one who has learnt a lesson.
Khushi(nods): I understand what you're trying to say.
He cups her face & kisses the top of her head.
Arnav: Cheer up! So what if we cant have sex? We can always bathe together,right?
Khushi: Ya,thats right! Your wish of bathing with me is about to be fulfilled!
Arnav(nods): Finally!
He took the wet loofah,poured some of the shower gel on it & placed it on the hollow of Khushi's neck.
A rich lather combined with a strong,masculine fragrance engulfed Khushi as the loofah went around her neck,her shoulders,her arms.
Arnav was about to place the loofah on her chest when Khushi stopped him.
Khushi: Thanks,I'll manage..
Arnav: I think it'll be better for both of us if you do! Jus make sure that you dont take it anywhere near your injured hand.
Khushi: Okay.
She tried to concentrate fully on the loofah,ignoring the fact that Arnav was lathering himself up.
Needless to say,it was hard for both of them to keep their eyes & hands off each other!
But they somehow managed to do so.
Khushi was relieved when they stepped out of the bathroom.
Arnav: Wait..
Khushi(turns around): why? Whats left to do?
Arnav: Nothing!
He scoops her in his arms & carries her to the bedroom.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
*Later that afternoon*
Khushi stood in front of the vanity table,drying her hair with the white Turkish towel.
Arnav stood behind her,transfixed.
When Khushi saw him gaze at her like that,her red cheeks turned crimson.
She turned around and threw her towel onto his face.
Arnav(removes the towel): What the..!?
Khushi(combing her hair with fingers): Dry your hair or else you'll catch a cold!
Arnav(scowls): how unromantic!
Khushi(turns around): Oh,really? Then.. (walks up to him)how about this?
She took the towel and started drying his hair with it.
Arnav: Nice! But this is better..
Arnav wrapped his arms around her waist.
Khushi: umm hmm! Bend down..
When he bent his head,his eyes fell on her cleavage,which was peeping out of
the red bathrobe.
Without a warning,he bent his head further and licked it.
Khushi(shocked): aah! Honey! You scared me!
Arnav mumbled sorry baby while pressing a kiss to her cleavage.
He took his tongue further inside and Khushi moaned unwillingly.
Khushi: Go.. please!
Arnavji(mumbles): Where?
Khushi: umm.. Call Raghuji & ask.. him to deliver the.. lauki. (bottle gourd)
Arnav lifts his head & frowns deeply.
Arnav: Lauki?Werent you plannin to prepare.. baingan ka bhartaa for lunch?
Getting the opportunity, Khushi takes a step or two away from him.
Khushi: Yes,I was! And thats what we'll have for lunch today. You were the one who was talking of preparing lauki for breakfast.
Arnav(makes a face): Its not lauki,its gnocchi(pronounced as nauki).
Khushi: Whatever that may be! Ask him to deliver it. Then you can prepare it for dinner.
Arnav: I doubt he'll have it though,coz his is an Indian grocery store. While gnocchi is an Italian food item.
Khushi: Then.. what do we do about the gnocchi?
Arnav: We prepare it at home,like the pesto sauce!
Khushi: Do you know the recipe?
Arnav: No.But I'll look it up on the net.
Khushi: Then do that! And get him to deliver all the necessary ingredients,apart from the baingan(brinjal). And yes,ask him to give the brinjal meant for preparing bhartaa.
Arnav: Are there different kinds of brinjals?
Khushi: Yes. So you must ask him to bring the desi one. I dont want anything like the videsi eggplant in my kitchen!
Arnav: Alright,I'll tell him.
Khushi: Meanwhile,I'll put the clothes inside the washing machine.
Arnav: You let it be. I'll do it
Khushi: Areh,I'll do it. Dont worry! You just tidy up the room,okay?
Arnav: Fine.
Khushi: And listen..
Arnav: Yeah,tell me?
Khushi: Since this will be the last time Raghuji will be here,you.. give him some money,as tip. While we were here,he delivered whatever you asked him to. He was here whenever you called him. So we should also do something for him before we leave. Am I right?
Arnav(agrees): Ya. I'll give some money to Amber as well.
Khushi: Thats a good idea! Now I should leave. Anyways we're running behind schedule..
She was about to step out of the room when he called her.
Arnav: Listen..
Khushi(turns around): Yes?
Arnav: Wear that white saree today which you'd worn on the first day of the cruise.
Khushi(smiles): Okay! And you wear your jeans with that red kurta. (sighs)I dont know when I'll get to see you sporting that color again!
Arnav: What makes you say that?
Khushi: Coz I know that you'll never wear that color at home!
Arnav: I'll wear it,only in front of you! And today..
The bell rang before Arnav could complete his sentence.
Khushi: Must be Amberji..
Arnav: I dont think so!
Khushi: Still,I need to open the door!
She rushed to open the door while Arnav sat down to browse the internet.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
As Khushi had expected,it was indeed Amber standing outside the door.
Khushi: Areh Amberji,you had taken a chhutti.. I mean leave na?
Amber(nods): Oui!(yes)
Khushi: Then how come you're here?
Amber: You et(and) monsier are leaving demain(tomorrow). So,I.. work today.
Khushi(smiles): Toh.. aap sirf humare yahaan kaam karne aayi? Only here?
Amber: Oui. Rien que pour toi! (Yes. Only for you!)
Khushi: Merci! You're so sweet,Amberji! I'm so glad you decided to help us!
Amber: I start work?
Khushi: Haan,haan. Wash clothes first then wash dishes aur aakhir me mopping. Theek hai?
Amber: Bien.
Khushi: I'll give you some jilebis today! Indian sweet!
Amber: Fantastique!
Khushi immediately left to inform Arnav about Amber's arrival.
Khushi(excited): Didnt I tell you..
Arnav(interrupts): I heard everything. (smiles) She's really fond of you! Thats why she came here,especially for you!
Khushi(smiles): I know.
Arnav: I hope you arent tensed anymore?
Khushi: No,I'm not! Now that she's washing the clothes,should I tidy up the room?
Arnav: Nope! You go upstairs & talk to everyone at home. Meanwhile,I'll finish my work.
Khushi: Good you reminded me of calling home!I need to talk to buaji about something very important. I'll talk to her right now..
Arnav: Climb the stairs carefully,okay?
Khushi(smiles): Ar.. Honey! I've hurt my palm,not my heel! I'd also like to give an instruction..
Arnav: Sure!
Khushi(imitates him): Finish your work as soon as possible,okay? Make it fast!
Arnav(imitates her): Ji,bilkul..
Khushi hugs him before leaving the bedroom.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
*Later that afternoon*
Arnav placed Khushi on the marble slab,slightly away from the gas burner.
Khushi: Why did you make me sit over here? How will I be able to work from here?
Arnav: Thats exactly why I've placed you here,so that you're unable to work!
Khushi: Didnt you say that you'll allow me to help you?
Arnav: Yes,I did! But you dont need to stand on your feet for that! You'll be able to help me while sitting right here! BTW,you must tell me what all ingredients are required to prepare baingan ka bhartaa..
Khushi verbally listed the various ingredients alongwith their locations in the kitchen.
Arnav: Now tell me the recipe..
Khushi: Give me the brinjal..
Arnav: Honey,didnt I tell you that I'll be doin majority of the work?
Khushi: I know that! But then you also said that I can help you while sitting here,didnt you? *when he nods* So,once you hand over the brinjal,my work will end in 30 seconds flat!
Arnav(wonders): What kinda work is this?
Khushi: You'll get to know pretty soon! for now,pass the baingan. And the chhuri(knife) as well!
She quickly made long slits in the brinjal before handing it back to him.
Khushi: Done!
Arnav: Now tell me,what do I have to do?
Khushi: Sprinkle some oil all over it & rub it nicely.
Arnav: Which oil?
Khushi: Since we get olive oil over here,you can use that.
After spraying it with oil, Arnav reluctantly rubbed the brinjal.
Khushi: I've asked you to rub oil on the baingan,not on your head!
Arnav(glares): I know!
Khushi: Then why are you scowling?
Arnav: Coz I hate it when my hands become so oily! Anyways,whats next?
Khushi: Wash your hands first. Then you'll have to grill the brinjal until its skin becomes burnt and wrinkled.
Arnav: Okay,wait..
She is shocked when he fetches a grill pan.
Khushi: Why do you need this pan?
Arnav: To grill the brinjal. Or do you want me to do it in a heavy bottomed pan?
Khushi: No! You need to grill it in open fire.. I mean.. you'll have to place it directly on the gas burner.
Arnav: Okay,fine!
He opens one of the kitchen drawers and peeks inside.
Khushi: What do you want now?
Arnav: Tongs or.. yup! I got it!
He takes out a pair of tongs and places it on the slab.
Khushi: Actually you can do it with your hand. But its better if you tongs since you're not used to it.
Arnav: You should never do it with your hand coz that can burn your hand if you're not careful!
Khushi: Okay,okay! Now you grill it meanwhile I'll chop the pyaaz(onion) and tamaatar(tomatoes).
Arnav passes the vegetables to her before placing the brinjal on the gas stove.
Khushi feels a stab of pain when she wraps her hand around the tomato but she ignores it.
Khushi(thinks): If I show that I'm in pain,honey wont let me do even this much.
Arnav(hand on her shoulder): Baby?
Khushi(startled): huh? a.. yes?
Arnav: Are you alright?
Khushi: yes..
Arnav: If you're unable to cut the veges,then let it be.
Khushi: No,I'm fine. You should stop worrying about me and worry about the baingan instead! Keep turning it once in a while. That way it'll get cooked from all the sides.
Arnav: Okay,I'll do that. What is the next step?
Khushi: We'll have to wait till it cools down..
Arnav prepares the dish,following all the instructions to the T.
Then he takes a spoonful of it & blows on it before extending it towards Khushi.
Arnav: Generally you're the one who asks me to taste this & that. Today,for a change,you taste this & tell me how it is!
Khushi(after tasting it): umm..! (grins)Its delicious!
Arnav(takes a bow): Thank you!
Khushi: Shall we make the chapatis now?
Arnav: uh huh! I'll make them. You'll only see what i'm doin.
Khushi: Let me do some work,honey! Look,only 1 hand is needed to roast the chapatis. I can easily do it with my right hand. That'll save time as well!
Arnav's expressions revealed that he wasnt very convinced with what Khushi said.
Khushi(pouts): Please let me do it.. Please honey!
Arnav: Okay sweetheart! But not at the moment. let me roll out a few chapatis. Then I'll put you down.
Khushi(agrees): Okay. So take out the rolling pin & start rolling right now!
======================================
Arnav's rolling skills did nothing to impress Khushi.
Khushi: Which country's map is it?
Arnav: France!
Khushi: No kidding,honey! Please roll them properly..
Arnav: Dont worry! All the chapatis will be perfectly round!
Khushi: How?
Arnav: Like this!
He took a round bowl with sharp outlines & placed it on the rolled dough,thus cutting it circular.
Arnav(smug look): Didnt I say that it'll be perfectly round?
Khushi: What about the leftover?
Arnav: That'll go into the dustbin!
Khushi: Hey Devi Maiyya! Will you waste so much dough?
Arnav shrugged his shoulders in reply.
Khushi: Wait,I'll do something.
She took the leftover dough and made a small ball out of it.
Khushi: Keep attaching the leftovers to this ball. We'll get 1 small chapati from it.
Arnav: Fine.
Khushi: It'll be better if you roll the chapati slightly once you've cut it.
Arnav: Okay. I'll roll it a bit.
Khushi: Put me down. I'll roast this one while you roll the second chapati.
Arnav: Come..
He lifted her off the slab & placed her gently on the floor.
Khushi placed the skillet on the burner & waited for it to heat up.
To check whether it was sufficiently hot or not,she was about to touch it when Arnav grabbed her hand.
Arnav: Are you..? You've already burnt 1 hand. Now do you want to burn the other as well?
Khushi: The skillet isnt that hot that it would burn my hand!
Arnav: Whatever! Leave all this..
Khushi(shocked): Areh! Why? Okay,I wont touch the skillet. But please let me roast the chapatis.
Arnav(placing her on the slab): I'll do that.
Khushi: Then what should I do?
Arnav: Apply ghee on the chapatis.
Khushi: But honey..
Arnav(interrupts): No arguments! I'm not takin risk today.
Khushi: There's no risk in it!
Arnav ignores her & places the chapati on the skillet.
Khushi(realizes): Trying to change his view on this matter would turn out to be useless ! He's way too worried about me. Or,I can say that.. there's a fear which constantly scares him. But then.. what if he behaves like this for every little thing? I'll have to do something about it..
Arnav: What the..!?
Khushi: What happened?
Arnav: I.. burnt the chapati.
Khushi: Doesnt matter! The next one will be better! And listen..
Arnav: Yeah,tell me?
Khushi: Make sure the flame is low.
Arnav: Okay.
Arnav continues to prepare the chapatis while Khushi thinks about a way to help him get rid of his fear.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Post lunch,Arnav watered the plants in the small balcony outside the living room.
Khushi came & stood next to him while he was busy tending to the plants.
Khushi: Finished your packing?
Arnav: No,I'll do it after waterin the plants. (turns to her)Have you finished cleanin the kitchen?
Khushi: No,I was doing just that when.. a thought came to my mind.
Arnav: Which thought?
Khushi: I'll tell you once your plants finish drinking water!
*******
Khushi held Arnav's hand & took him towards the piano in the living room.
Arnav(surprised): You were thinkin bout this?
Khushi(nods): Yeah. Why dont you sit down?..
Arnav sat on the stool in front of the piano with Khushi on his lap.
Khushi(turns to him): Do you know how to play this?
Arnav: Nope! What bout you?
Khushi: No,even I dont know how to play this. (clicks her tongue) All this happens to me only!
Arnav: What do you mean by all this?
Khushi: I mean there's a pool in Shantivan but I dont know how to swim! There's a piano over here but I dont know how to play it!
Arnav: As far as swimming is concerned,I'll teach you how to swim!
Khushi(smiles): Okay! And I'll teach you how to play the piano!
Arnav(frowns): How will you teach me when you yourself dunno how to play it?
Khushi: I'll learn how to play it after going back to Dilli. The next time we're here,I'll play the piano for you! Every single day!
Arnav brings her head closer & pecks her lips.
Khushi(sighs): When will we come here again,honey?
Arnav(shrugs): I dunno,baby. I.. cant say anythin as of now..
Khushi: May be.. during the next monsoon? Around our second marriage anniversary..?
Arnav: Lets see. Right now it looks like we might have to go to Dubai next year.
Khushi(surprised): Dubai?
Arnav(nods): I read Akash's mail this mornin. He & Aman have fixed my meetin with the owners of one of Dubai's famous fashion houses for next week.We will collaborate with them once the deal is cracked. You know what that means?
Khushi shook her head with a blank look on her face.
Arnav: AR Designs will have its first show in Dubai Fashion Week next year,in which we will showcase our joint collection!
Khushi: In which month does this fashion week take place?
Arnav: April..
Khushi: Okay so.. that means we'll go to Dubai in Aprail?
Arnav: Yup!(smiles) Aakash has done a fantastic job! The fashion house owners are impressed and interested as well! What could be better than that?
Khushi: You're right. The only thing which would be better would be you cracking the deal effortlessly! By Devi Maiyya's grace,you will achieve all that you desire!
Arnav: I dont need anybody's grace! (confidently)I know it for sure that I will achieve all that I desire!
Khushi(ignores his comments): Both,jijaji and Amanji deserve to be appreciated for their efforts! They finalized the Gulmarg plot deal on one hand & almost fixed the Dubai deal on the other! You must congratulate them!
Arnav: I will do that once we're back home!
Khushi: Alright. Right now you should finish your packing while I should finish the kitchen work.
Arnav: Ya,thats fine but you also need to finish your packin. And while packin,I want you to think of that place where you'd like to go for a bike ride today!
Khushi: I've already thought of it! I want to go to the temple!
Arnav: What the..!?
Khushi: Shouldnt we visit the temple before our journey back home? Thats why I've decided that we'll go to the Iskon temple this evening!
Arnav: As you wish!
Khushi: We need to come home soon,so that we finish our dinner & go to sleep on time. Hence we'll not attend the aarti today,we'll just.. have a darshan.
Arnav: Okay.
Khushi: BTW,I hope you've booked the taxi?
Arnav: Yup! We leave at 5:30 pm tomorrow evenin..
Khushi(shocked): 5:30 pm? *when he nods*But the checkout time is 11 am na?
Arnav: You're right. But when the landlord had called this mornin,I informed him bout our flight timings. And I requested him to rent the penthouse for half a day. And he agreed!
Khushi: Good job! Spending some more time in this house would be much better than sitting in the airport!
Arnav: Exactly! We'll prepare breakfast together. And..
Khushi: I know!(blushes) We'll have a bath together!
Arnav: Right answer!
Khushi: Where is my prize?
Arnav(tweaks her nose): Right here!
Khushi(annoyed): Arnavji!
Arnav: Foul! You'll be punished for that!
Khushi(rubs her nose): If this is the prize then I wonder what the punishment would be like? Anyways,tell me.. What is it?
Arnav leans closer & bites her earlobe.
Khushi squeals while pushing him away.
Khushi: so thats my punishment,ya? Just you wait!
She grabs his collar & is about to bite his earlobe when a thought crosses her mind & she stops.
Arnav: Why did you stop?
Khushi: Coz it wont b a punishment for you! Rather,you'll enjoy it! (evil grin)The punishment should be something like this!
She pulls his cheeks hard.
Arnav(irritated): Khhu.. sshhii!
Khushi: Foul! Now you'll get the 2nd punishment!
Arnav: Hold on.. I dont even know why I was punished for the 1st time?
Khushi(pulls his nose): For speaking bitterly like the karela! *bitter gourd*
Arnav: Really? Then its a really small punishment.
Khushi: Do you want a bigger punishment?
Arnav: You can give it if you'd like to..
Khushi: Okay. (getting up) Get up & sit on the floor with your legs crossed.
Arnav(frowns): Why?
Khushi: How will I give you a head massage with chameli ka tel until you sit on the floor?
Arnav: What the..!?
Khushi(nods): This is the big punishment!
Arnav: Noways! I havent committed that big a mistake which would warrant for sucha punishment!
Khushi: Oh,really?
Arnav: I mean.. ya,okay I have! I know I've hurt you a lot & I'm ready to accept any punishment for that. But.. not this one!
Khushi: This is the only punishment!
Arnav: Then I'm not gettin punished!
Khushi: Yes,you are!
Arnav: No,I'm not!
Khushi: Go now! Henceforth you'll get nothing from me! Niether rewards nor punishments!
Arnav: Okay,okay fine! I'll.. accept this punishment some other time. You wont be able to gimme a head massage with 1 hand. So lets postpone this until your wound heals,okay?
Khushi: Okay! I wasnt goin to oil your hail anyways since you've already had a bath.
Arnav(sighs): Thankfully!
Khushi(looking at her palm): Now I can wait until this wound heals!
Arnav: Niether can I!
Khushi(frowns): Why are you so eager?
Arnav: Coz I'll get a massage only once it heals. I mean body massage..
Khushi: hmm,now I get it!
Arnav: Now,finish your work. Then take rest for a while. I'll prepare the tea.
Khushi: Okay.
She left for the kitchen while Arnav left for the bedroom.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Precap:
Arnav touches her cheek with his mashed potato laden fingers.
Khushi(irritated): Oh ho!
Arnav walks over to the other side & smears her right cheek as well.
Khushi: I'm warning you,sweetheart! I also have some color with me. Understood?
Arnav(utterly confused): Color?
Khushi: Yes,color!
She smears both his cheeks with some dry flour.
Khushi: I can also play Holi!(flicks the tip of his nose)So dont disturb me!
Arnav: You can play Holi but you cant do this!
He bent his head & licked the potato off her cheek.
Kindly ignore typos & mistakes. Next update on Thursday,25th September.
The song was from the movie Omkara.
Udne Ki Aasha
708