Arhi SS : Chemistry #1 [ Completed ] - Page 19

Arhi SS : Chemistry - Part 3

Khushi chided her traitorous heart for beating wildly in Arnav's presence. Sitting across him in an almost empty room, was dangerous for her fragile heart. Since the moment he had entered the boardroom yesterday, she had not been able to think of anything beyond him. His masculinity, his toned body, his smirk and his touch... everything seemed to draw her in. It had taken immense self-control on her part, to act nonchalant in front of him. This was the first time in many months, that she had blushed four times, in one freaking day.

That episode... that embarrassing to the roots episode, made her flush each time she thought about it. Had he really grabbed her there... for support? His rough palm, holding onto her weight, had shocked her momentarily. And soon the shock had transformed into immense awkwardness. She had not even waited properly for his apology. Not being able to look into his eyes, she had rushed out of the room, which seemed to get smaller in size, with each passing minute she spent with him.

Look at him, how cool he seems about it. Not an ounce on discomfort or shame. Must be a normal thing for him to grab onto girls brea..., Khushi thought to herself. Aman, Jai, Arnav and she, had huddled into the smaller conference room since morning, discussing the way forward. The employees of their steel division, which was to be merged immediately, needed to be briefed on their roles in the new-formed company. Khushi had some suggestions, despite the six-foot tall distraction in the room and she saw him stare at her intently, throughout her conversation.

His gaze unnerved her. It felt oddly similar to something from the mushy books she had read. Was this how a woman felt when a man stared at her? Then why had she never felt these unfamiliar emotions bubbling within her with NK? Was it because NK and she were friends for long and shared a comfortable companionship with each other? Was it because Arnav was a mystery to her... and mysterious things are always intriguing? He was an enigma and she felt a pull towards him, which she had no clue how to control.

As the meeting adjourned, Arnav stopped Khushi from leaving, "Khushi... can I have a word with you?" Aman once again stopped in his tracks for an indication from Khushi, if he was required. Khushi was in a fix. This felt like deja vu from yesterday and she had no intentions of a repeat telecast. She quickly asked Arnav, "Yes Arnav, tell me..." She saw a ghost of uneasiness on his face in Aman's presence, yet, he continued, "Our lunch is still on right? I shall get free in an hour's time, and then we could go to this pizza place around the corner. What say?"

His casual attitude irked her a little. Wasn't he least affected by what occurred yesterday? Did her presence not have the same effect on him? She decided it best to act calm and replied, "Yeah, cool. I will make sure to be free in an hour. See ya!" Saying that she made a quick exit with a smirking Aman in tow. Get a grip on your emotions Khushi... what the hell is wrong with you! Khushi mentally chided herself for acting like a hormonal teenager. Thinking it best to immerse herself in work and keep the distraction at bay, she got busy with briefing her team.

It was around one, when she heard a knock on her cabin door. She knew who it was, before Arnav walked into the cabin. "The view is stunning," he genuinely complimented the vast expanse of Arabian sea, that was seen from Khushi's cabin. However, it struck Khushi in the gut thinking if he had actually complimented her. She mumbled a soft, "Thank you" before continuing jestingly, "I am ready to leave and actually starving too. Your suggestion of having delicious pizza has made me crave for it even more."

"Well then lets get going. Its not good manners to keep a pretty lady hungry, is it?" Arnav teased Khushi, now genuinely complimenting her beauty. She could only blush at the comment, as she made her way towards the door. They decided to walk the five minutes of distance towards the sea-facing restaurant. It was one of Khushi's favourite places, as she had grown up relishing the scrumptious pizzas of that place, since childhood.

She was pleasantly surprised to see, that he had made the effort of reserving a table for them. They were seated at a cozy corner with the view of marine drive. Like always, she did not need to go through the menu, to decide on what she would have. She noticed him eying her with caution, as she fumbled with her phone, pretending to respond to messages. How were they actually going to break the huge block of ice between them? She had no clue, how to begin the conversation and was thankful for the timely intervention of the waiter.

"One medium size Bombay Masala pizza, thin crust, topped with black olives and alapenos," Khushi said, as soon as he had asked, what they would like to have. Arnav chuckled at her eagerness and she blushed at her own craziness. It was a while since she had indulged in eating outside... especially since the NK fiasco. Arnav placed his order and once again, an uncomfortable silence engulfed them.

"So, what do you like to eat besides pizzas, Khushi?" Arnav began. She looked at him hesitantly and replied, "I love spicy food and I love desserts. From the chaats on the roadside, to souffls at Le Pain... I am a big foodie you see. Its just that it has been a while since I indulged in eating outside. Earlier NK would take me out to eat, atleast twice a we..." She stopped talking as NK's name involuntarily came out of her mouth. Damn!

She shifted in her seat uncomfortably as she heard Arnav speaking in a soft hushed tone, "I am sorry for what happened between NK and you, Khushi. I may not know the details... however; the media surely covers such troublesome issues generously. Why don't we just put that topic aside and talk about what desserts you love. See, I am diabetic and I haven't had a sweet-dish in months... does that make you feel any better?"

Khushi smiled at him genuinely, her heart warming up to the man sitting across her. He had eased her worry regarding NK's matter coming up in the conversation and veered it into pleasant territories. Not letting NK upset her anymore, she replied, "It is too bad that you cannot indulge into the most delicious and sinful dishes on this planet. My favourite by the way is death by chocolate'... something that will literally kill you with its richness."

He laughed at her and flirted, "Well, I have a lot of other sinful things to indulge in... so I don't think I am missing out on much, Khushi." He winked at her, his audacity making her blush at his innuendo. The food was served, and Khushi was kind enough to let Arnav taste some of her favourite pizza. It must have skipped her mind, that she had never shared her pizza with NK, in their entire courtship period. And then again, it may have been just the first time.

By the time Arnav and she had returned to the office, there was a certain comfort surrounding them. Arnav had made her laugh so much, that she was in serious trouble of spitting the fresh lemonade, on his face. She smiled recollecting his jokes and wisecracks. He was a charming man and she felt the pull towards him, like never before. His easy companionship and flow of conversations had put her at ease on the thought of working with a random stranger. One lunch had managed to change the mood of their relationship, and Khushi felt happy with the change.

The day passed by in a blur... and the week followed in a similar pattern. Arnav and Khushi had fallen into a comfortable zone, working together for the upcoming conference. It was the launch of RG Steel Pvt. Ltd. They had finally managed to convincingly merge both their steel divisions, to form one strong unit. The conference's agenda was to launch its new logo and their strategy for the brand. They had been working late nights to meet this deadline of Saturday evening, when the conference was going to be held.

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Khushi looked at herself in the mirror, fidgeting with her new dress. Saturday had come at such speed, that she had been unable to even think of what she was going to wear for the event. This blue dress, was something, she had picked up from a small boutique in London, some five months ago. She had completely forgotten about it. It was only when her mother had reminded her, had she realized that it suited perfectly for the occasion.

It was a corporate event and considering the product, she thought it best to stick to a dress instead of a formal suit. Khushi was not much interested in make-up and used very little of it regularly. Hence, applying a coat of basic make-up, she tied her hair into a neat ponytail, giving the finishing touches to her corporate look. Perfect! Arnav might just get impressed. That was the only thought that crossed her mind after getting ready. You fool... stop thinking about him!

Reaching the stunning venue on time, she rushed to make sure that the arrangements were fine. The media was thankfully co-operating and stuck to their relevant area. In the past, she had experienced all sorts of media mania and hoped that this event would sail through smoothly. To her annoyance, Arnav was running late. She hated people who did not realize the value of time, as she herself was always punctual. Quickly sending a text to Arnav, she engrossed herself in welcoming the guests.

The Ballroom at Taj, was soon buzzing with good vibe and positive feedback. The list of high-profile clientele, had kept the media busy. However, Khushi could not enjoy any of the fanfare, without missing the man of the day. He had texted her, he would reach in twenty minutes, almost an hour ago. It was time to begin the event and Khushi was getting a little paranoid. She picked up her phone to dial his number, when her heartbeat picked up speed. She felt a sudden urge, to look towards the entrance.

To her utter shock, Arnav was there... looking absolutely delicious. His toned body was smartly covered in a deep blue suit. With hair gelled and set in place, his face looked a little weary. She wondered what was the cause of the slight frown on his face. Making his way through the crowd, greeting people on the way, he swiftly reached her. "I am so sorry Khushi for the delay. However, something urgent had come up."

He quickly narrated the incident that had got him delayed. There was an accident on the road, and he had somehow managed to take the victim to the hospital, when no one else was ready to help. She felt relived at the well being of the man who had met with an accident and was thankful for Arnav's assistance. He truly was a man with multitude of facets... and how could anyone resist his charm?

She saw his eyes roving over her form, taking in her attire. Her heart rejoiced at the appreciation she saw there. "You look beautiful Khushi," he whispered huskily. It had been a while since someone had complimented her this way. She blushed and replied, "You look dazzling yourself, Arnav." He laughed raucously, gathering attention of the people around. However, he was least bothered about his surroundings, as he took her hand in his and led her to the podium to begin their conference.

After an hour of presentations, announcements and speeches, the conference concluded. Everyone including the Guptas and Raizadas moved towards the dining area, to enjoy the delicious buffet. Arnav and Khushi remained busy, greeting their guests and personally addressing the media. While Khushi was being asked a few questions regarding the Raizada-Gupta tie-up, a reporter asked her, "So maam, now that Nandkishore Mittal is married to someone else and the Gupta Industries has joined forces with Raizada Corps, do you think there is any chance of Khushi Gupta and Arnav Singh Raizada getting together?"

Khushi was taken aback by the brazenness of his question. The direct jibe at NK and her, made her uneasy in answering. It wasn't a mandate to respond to this kind of personal questions, however, she did not want the media to gloat at successfully infuriating her. So she responded as calmly as possible, "Well, this is a professional tie-up and not a dating service, if you understand what I mean. NK was a friend much before we joined forces professionally. There is a big difference between then and now. As for the future... let me know if you can predict yours correctly? I would gladly pay you for telling me mine then. " The reporter quietly nodded at her response, as she walked away after answering a few more questions.

"That was a total knockout, Gabbar!" she heard Arnav whisper close to her ears. Turning around to face him, she smiled and said, "Gabbar... really? I wasn't as nasty as I should have been. Reporters das aur main bechari ek... bahut nainsafi hai." Arnav laughed as she played along with his mischievous comment on her being Gabbar and responded, "You know what Ms. Gupta... I like the name Gabbar for you. It kind of suits you. I was terrified, the first time I met you."

Khushi laughed at his craziness and shook her head in defeat. Both of them soon joined their families for dinner. Khushi picked up her phone and dialed Sheetal's number. "Where the hell are you woman? The conference is over and now we are winding up dinner too," she said, as soon as Sheetal picked up her phone. "Babe, sorry sorry sorry! I got a little late. Was out with the gang for a round of drinks. I should be there in ten. Wait for me and keep that Raizada close-by for introduction," Sheetal replied in a rush.

Khushi didn't know why, but the thought of introducing Sheetal to Arnav, did not sit well with her. If she would admit it to herself, she felt a teeny tiny bit jealous, to think that Arnav may find Sheetal attractive. This unwarranted green monster surprised her, considering that Arnav and she were not even best of friends yet. Had she ever felt like this, while she was with NK? Had any woman's interest in NK irked her to this extent? Hell! To be frank, she had not even reacted badly to Lavanya. She had handled the situation pretty well.

However, with Arnav things seemed different. There was a potent energy between them. She felt a pull like never before... towards him... towards everything he did. She seemed to be attuned to his every action. Even now, amidst the crowd, she looked at him, sneakily having some dessert. She quickly walked over to him and said, "Thief!! Stop sneaking around to have dessert. You are not allowed to eat sweets." He choked on being caught and smiled gave her an embarrassed smile. A smile, that melted her insides.

"Hayye... Gabbar! You keeping tabs on me, feels kind of good. If I didn't know you better, I would think that you are stalking me. You aren't right?" Arnav teased. She swatted his arm is mock annoyance and replied, "Dream on Arnav! I am not interested in the rich, millionaire, most sought after bachelor, the angry business tycoon and what not." Arnav quirked his eyebrow in amusement and said, "Itna notice karti ho tum mujhe? Which article from which magazine have you been reading Khushi?"

She was about to respond, when she felt two familiar hands wrap around her tightly. She turned around and hugged Sheetal. Finally her best friend was here. She turned sideways to introduce Arnav and Sheetal, when the former said, "Sheetal Kapoor! What on earth are you doing here?" Khushi looked between the two and realized that they seemed to be well acquainted. Why had Sheetal hidden the fact that she already knew Arnav? And what was their story?

"Hey Arnav, long time. How have you been?" Sheetal batted her eyelashes, blushing prettily, much to Khushi's annoyance. "I have been good. What about you? I completely lost touch with you after Grad School. It has been so long since I met you." Arnav came forward and hugged Sheetal, who seemed to cling onto him. Khushi fumed and asked furiously, "Will someone tell me what is happening here?"

Arnav laughed at her adorableness and replied, "Relax Gabbar. Sheetal and I go down way back to our Harvard time. We were in the same batch, and if I am not mistaken, Sheetal had a huge crush on me, but never came up to tell me about her feelings." Khushi did not know what was annoying her more... the fact that Sheetal had hidden such a big truth from her or the fact that she had a huge crush on Arnav. She tried to reign in her emotions and said sarcastically, "Well that is sweet, isn't it Sheetal."

Sheetal looked sheepishly at Khushi and said, "Sorry Khush, did I forget to mention it earlier, that I already knew Arnav?" Khushi sighed in frustration and made her way towards where her mother stood. She did not want to get in the way of jilted love, that was on its way to fulfillment. From the corner of her eye, she noticed Arnav and Sheetal laughing heartily. Her anger notched a bit higher as she balled her hands in fists, controlling the urge to walk and tear them apart.

Such strong reactions? What was wrong with her? Why was she feeling so agitated if Sheetal and Arnav got close? Her mind had completely blanked out while her traitorous heart could not fathom the reason of the unwarranted emotions bubbling within her. She simply waited for the conference to wind up, so that she could go home and relax. She needed to get away from that man. Working with him all day and night, was taking a toll on her mental semblance.

Giving some respite, the guests began to leave and so did Sheetal. Khushi bid farewell to her parents and told them she would come home soon. Winding up the party, she was just about to down a glass of water when Arnav walked towards her. "Hey Khushi, if aren't too tired, you want to go for a drive? It's just that the conference was a huge success and I thought we should have a private celebration too. What say Gabbar?" Khushi was about to refuse, when he grabbed her hand and pulled her along with him towards the exit.

Part 4