Arhi SS : Chemistry #1 [ Completed ] - Page 79

Arhi SS : Chemistry - Part 9

Khushi took a large swig from the teacup on her desk and stretched herself on her plush chair. It was one hell of a tiring day at work. As much as she would have loved to think about the man who occupied her every spare second... the never-ending list of work had kept Arnav and her away all day. It was Friday and they needed to wind up a lot of things before the weekend began. The merger was still in the nascent stages and Khushi shuddered to even think about the endless list of responsibilities they would have to deal with, when it was complete.

She checked the time and gasped to see that it was already seven in the evening. How had the entire day whizzed by so quickly? Arnav was supposed to take her out for dinner and as promised he was going to... Khushi froze in her seat, thinking about how much she was looking forward to kissing him. She blushed at the memory of how Arnav had returned sooner than anticipated and how they had kissed in this very cabin. The flashes of his warmth engulfing her, his breath fanning her face, his hands caressing her face, his touch, his scent, his taste... Khushi shuddered at the intensity of her feelings for him.

How easily he had said that he liked her! She hadn't been able to respond at the time, confused at his behavior... from completely distant to acutely possessive. He had explained his reasons to rush away to Singapore. He had needed time to think about the changing dynamics of their friendship. But what about her need for some space to get used to this thing between them? Since their kiss in her office, he had flirted ceaselessly. Cornering her at every given opportunity. She liked it... infact she reveled in this adoration and lost all semblance of their surroundings, each time he was around her. Yet, she first needed to speak to NK and get completely over the baggage she was carrying for the last few months. Only then could she move forward with Arnav, to anywhere that destiny had planned for them.

She remembered their dinner last night, in a small coffee shop at Colaba Causeway. It was a hole in the wall, with bare minimum seating. It was not at all a place; she had expected him to take her to... especially on their first official date like he had said. Yet there was something special about it. It was his college hangout place, and he wanted to begin his story from there onwards. They had discussed about their schooling and their gang of friends. The easy conversations revolved around their favourite authors, to sportspersons... to places they had travelled to. She had been surprised at how easy it was for them to talk about any topic in the world. From economy to bhurji pav they relished, they had laughed, teased and laughed some more till late in the night. Khushi smiled at the mere memory of how wonderful it was to spend time with Arnav.

There was a knock at the door, bringing her out of her thoughts. Her heart skipped a beat, seeing the dazzling smile on the face of the most gorgeous man she had ever seen. Arnav entered her cabin and pulled off his jacket languidly, before settling down on the chair across her. Did he realize how utterly sexy he looked in that crisp blue shirt stretching across his toned body? Khushi sat mesmerized, as his hands moved to the knot of his tie, to loosen it and then slowly pull it over his head. She looked at his movements... without batting an eyelid, hypnotized by everything he did. He had not even said a casual "hi" yet and she seemed to not care even if he did.

His strong manly fingers moved towards his collar and unbuttoned the first two buttons of his shirt, giving her a peak of that bronzed chest. She involuntarily licked her dry lips, her eyes focused on the movements of his hands, completely missing the darkening of his eyes. He then began the task of rolling up his sleeves to his elbows. Khushi did not know much about his workout sessions; however, it wasn't difficult to guess how dedicated he must be at the gym. The strength of his arms was physically visible, and Khushi gulped thinking about what his sinful hands were capable of. Get a control over yourself Khushi! What are you thinking?

She heard him clearing his throat as he whispered huskily, "Hi there!" Her hazel eyes immediately lifted to clash with his brown ones, that seemed to be boring into her soul. She shivered at the effect he had on her and barely managed to respond with a soft "Hi." Arnav smirked at her reaction and then his delicious lips curved some more... a beautiful smile blooming on his handsome face. Khushi blamed her exhausted mind for feeling these strong emotions... for a damn smile!! But it was an Arnav Singh Raizada special... a smile of the lips that had the power to make her forget everything else.

"I am not at all complaining... but if you are done with your ogling, then I would love to take you out for dinner... on a proper date unlike yesterday," the devil teased and all Khushi could do was blush at her wantonness. Trying to rein in her thudding heart and to not give him any satisfaction, she replied, "Don't flatter yourself Arnav. Its always nice to admire a good-looking man and I do that plenty of times. So don't get carried away with this admiration, because you are definitely not my first." And just like that she saw Arnav swiftly rise from his chair and lean forward, so that his face was merely inches away from hers.

"Well then I might just be your last..." he breathed out, startling her at the meaning behind his words. And just as suddenly, he settled back into his chair and said, "Before things get too hot to handle, let me tell you Gabbar, that I am done with my work. I am heading out to meet a friend. I will be free in an hour's time and will pick you up." Khushi struggled to find her voice after his declaration. Her mind panicked at the speed of which Arnav was moving in their relationship. There were too many things to tackle before such grand proclamations. Had he meant what he said?

Khushi was surprised to see that Arnav had already walked to the door and was almost moving out when he turned around and added with a wink, "Be ready Khushi." And then he was gone. Ready? Was she ready? Ready for what? Her brain shut down and she cursed herself for not being able to function at work! How did Arnav manage to draw a line between personal and professional life so efficiently? She could feel the crazy butterflies fluttering in her stomach in the anticipation of their dinner date. It was a date... so would it mean that he would kiss her... again? Groaning in frustration at her distracted thoughts, she dipped her nose into the first file on the table, unsuccessfully trying to concentrate on work.

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"Where are we going," Khushi asked eagerly, as she sat besides Arnav, who seemed to be engrossed in listening to the song playing in the car. "Hmm," he queried distractedly. "Why are you so lost Arnav? Is anything bothering you?" Khushi asked, feeling his restlessness. As they stopped at the traffic light, he turned towards her, looking at her intently. She could sense that he wanted to tell her about something, yet he quickly masked his emotions and said, "Nothing Khushi... I am fine. And as for your question about where we are headed... then its one restaurant you will love, because I know that it is one of your favourites."

His silly grin mirrored on her own face as she questioned, "How do you know that? Have you gone ahead and hired a investigator to find out about my history?" Arnav laughed at the thought and she could not contain her laughter either. "Well if you want to call your best friend an investigator then so be it," he said cheerfully. Khushi looked at him stunned. She could not believe her ears and to clear her doubts, asked in a soft whisper, "You asked Sheetal about my favourite restaurants?" He nodded like a small child, laughing at the expression on her face.

To confirm the bizarre news, Khushi asked yet again, "... and she told you about my favourites?" He nodded once again, no more being able to control his sexy grin looking at her comical expression. She mumbled more to herself, "The Sheetal Kapoor... actually told a guy she had a crush on... about my favourite restaurant, so that he could take me out on a date!" He chuckled and said, "Well it's not so easy to get Sheetal Kapoor talking... but you see... Arnav Singh Raizada and his charms are too irresistible."

That statement got a reaction out of her, as she looked pointedly at him and whacked his arm. He mocked her with a hurt expression as she teased, "I hope you are not flirting with two women at a time Arnav... like the gossip that surrounds you. You better remember that you are dealing with Gabbar here... aur mujhse panga lene ki sazaa tumhe milegi... barabar milegi." Khushi tried laughing the devilish laughter of Gabbar, failing miserably at it, yet filling the car with such joy and peace.

Soon they were on the secluded streets of Bandra reclamation and Khushi realized where they were headed. A quintessential Bandra bungalow stood ahead of them... illuminated with beautiful lamps and sparkling fairy lights. Bungalow 9 was an exquisite restaurant, nestled amidst the quiet locality of old Bandra... and definitely one of her favourites. She turned to Arnav, and said excitedly. "I love this restaurant. I can't believe that Sheetal actually told you about this one." He gifted her with his lopsided smirk and teased, "It's the charm... Ms. Gupta!" Another whack against his arm, and they were soon being escorted into the warm, romantic interiors of the restaurant.

After placing the order for their food, Arnav held Khushi's hand that lay over the table and brushed his thumb softly over it. "Have I ever told you how beautiful you are?" he asked, the sincerity in his question baffling Khushi for a moment. "Why do you always say things that fluster me? Do you actually mean them, or are you like this with every pretty face you have been with?" Khushi asked in response. She saw a hint of hurt marring his gorgeous face and cursed herself mentally, for coming on so strong in her attitude.

Taking a deep breath, she heard him speak. "I do not know where this deep mistrust comes from... or this lack of self confidence Khushi... but you have to believe me when I say this... that as strong you are as a businesswoman, you are the most beautiful woman I know, inside out. Your innocence and honesty is the most alluring facet of your personality. And I sometimes wonder if you are simply shipping for compliments here and pretending to be surprised by my genuine praise," he finished talking, leaving Khushi mesmerized by his words... that left her reeling in the true depth of his emotions. Seems like she would have to get used to feeling this happy.

The food had soon arrived and both of them dug into their respective dishes, savoring its deliciousness. The comfortable conversations were back and Khushi felt happy and content in his company. The slight touches of hands and brushing of his fingers against her cheeks, ignited a deep-rooted fire within her and she wished for their entire surroundings to simply dissipate, so all that remained was Arnav and her.

However, throughout their entire meal, a slight burden on her chest, did not let her relax into the evening completely. Only when the dessert was served and he took to the task of simply watching her, did she decide to talk to him about her plans for Saturday. Clearing her throat like a prelude to her conversation, she whispered softly, "I am meeting NK tomorrow evening." He looked at her with surprise, which slowly turned into a beautiful smile that finally made her relax in her seat. "Good! It is high time you get it over with Gabbar. My Gabbar can never be scared to face problems upfront. So go win your friend back, so that I can kiss you senseless without you feeling that slightest twinge of discomposure... and yes before you ask me how I know about it... let me tell you that I notice everything about you sweetheart."

Khushi blushed profusely, her heart thundering in her chest at his endearment. Despite the fast pace of their equation, Khushi was completely enjoying the adoration. For the first time she felt the need to give into the temptation that was Arnav Singh Raizada. She leaned into him and said, "Thank you for everything Arnav." He smiled at her and brushed his knuckles across her cheek. How could a man be flirty and a tease, yet understanding and such a softie at the same time? It was tough to not fall for the charms of Arnav Singh Raizada, just like he boasted.

They were soon on the way back home and by the time Arnav pulled the car in Khushi's driveway, she was almost asleep. The fatigue and stress of the week was catching up on her. She felt the soft click of her seatbelt and stirred in her seat. Through drooping eyelids she smiled at Arnav. She saw his intense gaze flitting between her eyes and then dropping down to her lips. His eyes darkened and as he leaned into her... she felt his kiss even before his lips touched hers.

He had cupped her face in his large warm hands, as his lips teased hers till the point of sheer torture. He seemed to be in no hurry... unlike her... who had now inched closer to him, needing to feel the warmth of his body. Holding onto his firm chest, Khushi lost herself into the heady kiss. It was only a few minutes later, that they pulled away, breathing harshly... the fogged windows a proof of their sensual encounter. He smiled and traced her lips with his thumb and whispered, "Go home Khushi... before I lose myself in you yet again."

He threaded his fingers through her hair, combing them neatly and all she could do was touch the tiny scar on his forehead that had her attention since the last few weeks. Her eyes questioned about how he had got it, and his bewitching eyes responded saying some other time. After a few moments spent in complete silence, just savouring each other's presence, Khushi stepped out of the vehicle and wished him a quick goodnight before rushing into the waiting elevator. The tiring week was over and the dramatic weekend was here.

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"How are you Khushi?" NK asked faintly. Khushi looked at her best friend and could not recognize the man behind the pensive face anymore. Was this the same friend, who would laugh like a manic and have a warm smile glued on his face at any time of the day? His face looked drawn and the guilt weighed heavily on his drooping shoulders. Khushi felt bad seeing him in such a state and immediately rushed to rectify it. "I am good NK... very happy and content."

He smiled genuinely, happy to see her happiness and said, "It is good to know Khush, because your happiness was always very important to me. Unfortunately, I was the one to act completely against it. I have been a selfish man, Khushi and even if you choose to forgive me, I don't know if I ever could. I have completely tainted the beautiful friendship we shared and I don't know how to rectify it." Khushi could not stop the giggle that left her mouth, seeing her jovial friend talk so formally to her. Gosh! And they said women were dramatic!

NK looked at her laughing form and wondered if his friend had truly lost her marbles. She controlled her laughter with difficulty and said, "What is wrong with you NK? I understand that whatever happened a few months ago has soured our relationship but you are a newly-married man and looks like Lavanya's filmy personality is rubbing onto you. I am here today, to get my friend back... who seems to have locked himself up into some faraway land that I cannot reach."

She noticed the shock on his face and saw his coiled body, relax slowly. She saw a ghost of a smile on his face and continued talking, "NK. I have missed you. You were my friend first and then my fiance. Whatever happened between our families was not in our hands then. However, we should have been able to work out our equation better than we did." He cut her short and said, "I know Khushi. That is why I regret how I cut off all ties with you. I felt guilty and ashamed to have put my happiness over yours and my selfishness caused you so much embarrassment in front of the media... I didn't know how to face you then, Khush."

Khushi leaned forward and took his hand in hers saying, "NK... forget the media and the world. They don't matter to me... but you do. Whatever happened is now the past. Lets put things behind us and tell me in clear words, if Lavanya will have any issues with our friendship... because I for one want my friend back." NK shook his head and replied, "You have no clue how much of a lashing I get from Lav daily. She has been urging me to call you for the past two months now. She feels guilty too Khush and I can see the permanent sadness in her eyes, to live her dream life, crushing someone else's."

Khushi could not help but laugh at his face again, "Something is totally wrong with you NK! You are talking absolutely philosophical stuff. Crushing someone's dream life? Really? I think you need some regular dose of Vitamin Khushi to get over this disease. Finish off your cold coffee and lets leave. I am sure my mom is panicking with worry about this meeting." NK looked at his friend, who seemed to have changed with time. She was the same carefree Khush, he knew once during college... before their engagement. He was glad to see her back!

Without giving it a second thought he asked, "How is Arnav, Khushi? To work with I mean... are you getting along well with him at work?" He saw something incomprehensible flit across her face and to his utter shock, she blushed while replying "He is a great guy NK. I enjoy working with him." Did Khushi Kumari Gupta just blush? The world had to be ending. A new energy seemed to have rushed into NK, realizing the fact that his friend finally seemed to have found a man, who could make her blush. It called for good news and he swiftly got up from his seat, and pulled Khushi into a bear hug.

Khushi felt good to hug NK, with the bitterness and misunderstandings finally crumpled at their feet. The secluded cafeteria gave them the required privacy, form the crazy media who would not think twice before declaring Nandkishore Mittal's marriage in trouble because his ex-fiance. That thought made her smile and she looked up, towards the cafe's entrance, only to notice warm brown eyes looking right at her... engulfed in a warm hug with her ex-fiance. Her vivaciously beating heart stilled for a moment.

Part 10

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