Arshi FF : Merger Thrd # 2 Link to Thread #3 on Page 1 - Page 69

Originally posted by: Prettycool

Am I only one here who is so despo for to know what happen ahead

Originally posted by: shoobie

Wow. nice update! i am in two minds about Garima😡 certainly don't agree with her ways trying to secure Khushi's and her future.which self respecting lady goes about it this way! yet, i can understand her to need to "secure" financially based on her personal experience.

glad Khushi realized foolishness of her mother's thinking and ran away.

Am glad Arnav accepted Aman & his Di relationship. beautifully depicted Arnav's insights that he gains from his conversation with Aman.

thanks for the update.

Originally posted by: manusmithcl

Bus journey is turning out quite interesting..hope they open up.. Excellent chapter

A/n: Hey All, I am back with an update. PLEASE READ THIS NOTE BEFORE YOU START!!

This is a chapter which involves a lot of self-talk by Arnav and Khushi. Just like all of us, when we are about take decisions about serious matters. Especially Arnav, who is bombarded with lot of insecurities. Just to help us all in understanding I have colour coded the various voices in his head. But his real conscious voice' is in black. Sounds confusing...? Read on... You will come to know. If I have not been able to put it out well, just think that they are making various arguments within themselves and finally come to a conclusion.

I hope my note itself wasn't confusing. 😕😆

I really hope I am successful in getting you all into the heart and minds of my Arnav and Khushi. This journey that they have embarked upon is a beginning of their Merger. A True Merger happens when all insecurities are overcome and both are on the same pedestal. Arnav and Khushi are almost reaching that point. And I continue to hope you will stay with them till the end of the journey.

Thankyou all once again. I have a long delayed note pending, which I hope to post pretty soon. Trying to clarify some valid comments in the last couple of updates

Please do let me know how you felt about this update. It is very very close to my heart!!

CHAPTER 25

Arnav had been thinking how he would bring up the topic and get Khushi to share her problem. But she had been pretending to sleep all along.

The bus made its first stop just outside the city. And a couple of guava fruit vendors called out to the passengers inside the bus. Khushi opened her eyes and looked at the basket in the hands of the vendor.

After a really really long time, Arnav got to see a glimpse of his old Khushi. Her eyes shown with excitement. And was that a teeny tiny smile on her lips?

"Kitne ka hain bhaiyya?" She asked.

"Rs.10/- for one guava."

"Kya...? Ji nahi... If you give 3 for Rs. 10 then I will take it."

"Kya Didi..." the Vendor haggled.

Arnav saw her bargaining with the Vendor. The bus could start any moment now. He retrieved a 500/- rupee note from his wallet and extended his hand to reach out to the Vendor.

"Nahi..." Khushi said sternly, firmly gripping his hand.

"Bhaiyya, aap jaayiye. I am not going to buy."

The bus started.

"Arey, why are you bargaining for such a small amount? Just take them if you like it."

But Khushi placed both of her hands on his outstretched arm and firmly pushed it back.

"Nahi... Nahi chahiye."

"But you wanted them just now..."

"Chodiye ... Aap nahi samjhenge..."

"To samjhao mujhe... What is the problem Khushi? Is it money?"

"Arnavji... I don't want to talk about anything."

"Nahi ... bolna padega... You've got to tell me..."

Khushi looked outside the window, without replying...

"Khushi... Listen to me. I am heavily pressed with time. I am here only till tomorrow. And am catching a late night flight back to Delhi.

And these two days I am all yours. Let's discuss and sort out the problem."

Khushi closed her eyes and leaned her head on to the window.

Arnav leaned back on his seat exasperated.

Tears trickled down from her closed eyes, dripping on the rods on the window, safely hidden from Arnav's vision.

She wanted to tell him. She wanted to tell him everything. No not only about Shyam... Or about Amma... With Arnavji beside her, they would deal with all these issues... What was hurting her the most was her inability to tell him that she LOVED HIM.

How could she tell him? In all probability he would laugh it off... Not only because she was way below his league but also because, he did not believe in love or marriage. He had said so very clearly that day... Right after Sarita's broken engagement. And if he knew about her father, he wouldn't even want to be associated with her.

And NO!...it was not ok to see him for just a day or two every now and then.

She wanted to be with him all the time. She wanted to share a lifetime with him. Not as an employee, but as a...

Stop it... Stop it Khushi. Why are you wishing for the impossible my dear? Her heart called out to her.

As it is your Arnavji is not making it any easier for me. He is so close that I am aching and pining to be in his embrace all the more now... Her innocent heart cried.

Khushi tilted a bit towards the window and inconspicuously wiped her tears. She looked out of the window.

It was all becoming so difficult... especially with him so close to her, but yet so far away. Distance!! Would they ever be able to do away with this DISTANCE!

She turned to look at Arnavji. He was dozing, his head nodding awkwardly due to the rattling bus. He would sprain his neck if he slept this way.

She gently cupped his cheek and brought his head back in position. His face was only inches away from hers now. His mint cologne raising feelings she didn't want to entertain.

She took in his sleepy face, her thumb grazing his early morning stubble. Her lips yearned to kiss the cheek close to her.

No matter how hard she tried, her resolve to withdraw from him failed miserably. Just a few more sub-seconds... Her heart tried to steal as much time as possible.

Arnav woke up as soon as he felt her hand cup his cheek. But without showing signs of waking up, he reveled in her soft touch. She couldn't be mad at him for too long, could she? But as he waited, she did not withdraw her hand... Wondering what was happening, he opened his eyes only to see her very close to him. Their eyes collided. Arnav was taken aback with what he saw in them... He straightened his head to get a better look of her, but in the process she withdrew her hand and turned back to the window.

***

As the journey progressed, more and more passengers boarded into the already crowded bus. "Go back, Go back" the conductor kept shouting.

"Even a mosquito doesn't have a place here." Someone screamed from behind. And Arnav's closest companion in this journey - the pot belly of the cook - made an out and out effort to befriend his face.

Annoyed he put his hand over Khushi's shoulders and turned himself towards her. Facing her completely, he let the back of his head to deal with the pot belly.

The moment he put his arm around her shoulder, Khushi's heart beat rapidly. Wasn't this supposed to be a holy trip? But she seemed to be drowning in unholy thoughts throughout the journey.

After a particular stop, the bus started its journey again. The pressure on his head kept increasing... Especially during turns...He knew Khushi was crushed between him and the wall of the bus. His face was so close to hers that many a times he feared his face would bump on her cheeks...

And then came this deadly turn where everyone swayed. Unable to bear the pressure on his back and head any longer, Arnav ducked Khushi and covered her with himself. The cook came landing down on them.

Khushi hung on to her purse and closed her eyes shut. Her heart was pounding due to their close proximity. Arnav hid his face in her nape. Her smooth jasmine scent making him want more...

Slowly, the bus took a straight road and the passengers balanced themselves.

Straightening up, he pulled Khushi back to position holding her shoulders. Finding her ok, he shouted at the driver

"Abey Ooo..." but his voice was drowned with the other passengers similarly displaying their anger.

"Sorry... woh... I wasn't able to balance..." he apologized to Khushi.

"Actually, I am sorry Arnavji... I know you are not used to all this..."

"It's alright Khushi...This is nothing...I have travelled in worse conditions..."

Khushi looked at him confused.

"Bitiya...Saheb... can you hear me...? We have to get down at the next stop." Kaka yelled to alert them.

"Finally!!!" Arnav heaved a sigh of relief. "I am telling you right now Khushi... I will not let you board this kind of killer bus on our return journey."

Just then the bus stop arrived, the conductor shouted "2 minutes... Get down... Get down... Fast Fast Fast..."

Arnav got up to move ahead "Hello... Excuse Me...Hello..Excuse Me... " He courteously asked one by one ahead of him to make space...

Khushi patted on his shoulder. "Chodiye...Is this the way you plan to get down the bus? Let me do it..." She sneaked ahead of him.

"Bhaiya... Bhaisaheb... Utar Na hain hamein... Give us some space..." She was only louder than Arnav... but no good at it either.

In the middle of their courteous moves, the bus started.

"Roko... roko..." Kaka shouted running after the bus. He had already got down.

"Arey... rokiye..." Khushi's girly voiced was no match to the rattling bus.

That's it... Arnav had had enough. Before his Harvard days he had travelled many times in these kind of buses on work. Always be a Roman when in Rome. He banged the ceiling of the bus. The conductor yelled. "Abey... Kaun hain?"

"Bus roko... utar na hain..." Arnav bellowed. Khushi just stood there too stunned and scared... She was looking at a terrifying ASR as of now.

He squeazed ahead of her. Caught hold of her hand and barged in between the people... Pushing and shouldering them... Earning some colorful profanities along the way.

He leaped down from the bus only to land into a dirty puddle. The bus started to move again. Khushi was still on the step board. Balancing his back pack on one hand, he swooped her out of the bus with the other and took quick steps away from the bus... to save themselves from the slush that the bus tires would splash at them.

As the bus moved away, Khushi looked at Arnav. Her arms firmly around his neck. Face just an inch away from his. And feet hanging in the air. He was definitely angry. Creased eyebrows, lips pursed, stiff jawline. Her dry lips parted, awaiting his out lash.

Arnav looked at her worried face. He was worried sick that she could have been hurt had she fallen down from the bus. How can these bus drivers be so negligent? He did not let go of her. Comforting himself that she was safe and sound within his embrace. His eyes hovered all over her face...then her eyes... and finally settled on her parted lips... Pink lips... Soft lips?

Khushi noticed Arnav gazing her lips. Her heart beat rapidly. He would yell at her anytime now. But all she heard was a soft "Tum theek ho?" His voice was ridden with so much of concern. She was surprised.

"Huh?!" was all that she could reply with slightly wide eyes.

"Khushi... kya tum theek ho?" He jerked her in his embrace.

"Bitiya...Saheb... are you alright?" Both of them turned to look at Kaka... He was running towards them, as fast as his old legs could carry him.

Khushi pushed at Arnav's shoulders "Chodiye humein..."

Arnav put her down as Kaka approached them.

"Arey... Saheb. Your shoes have gone dirty." Kaka pointed out. Khushi went on to stand beside Kaka. Something annoyed Arnav. What was wrong if she stood beside him?

Kaka took Arnav's back pack and showed him a tap where he could wash his shoes.

Arnav returned with some slushy shoes. Water oozing out with his every step. Khushi put a finger on her lips hid behind Kaka to giggle. Arnav walked around and stood in front of her.

"Haseen aa rahi hain? ... It would have been more funny had 'you' been drenched in that puddle." Arnav cocked an eyebrow. And that shut her up.

"Theek hain...theek hain...chaliye... let's eat first and then go for the darshan." Kaka tried to make peace.

They quickly split the food and the snacks and walked towards the mandir. But to their horror the queue had extended out into the road and quite far from the main mandir. Exasperated they stood in the queue... and soon more people gathered behind them.

Khushi stood ahead of all three, then Kaka and then Arnav. Distance...

Although he was annoyed at the distance, Arnav tried to make the most of it. He tapped on Kaka's shoulder and asked him softly.

"Kaka... did Khushi tell you what happened last weekend."

"Nahi Saheb. Neither is she saying anything nor her mother. I have been updating her mother about her status ever since we found her in the PG. Garima requested me to take care of her while she was on her way. But she got the tickets only for the next day. By that time, Khushi bitiya had come back to consciousness and doctor had said she is out of danger. So I asked Garima not to come. Someone needs to take care of Chutki bitiya too. Her exams are coming up."

After a short pause, Kaka continued.

"Saheb, I am guessing Garima and Khushi bitiya had a fight. Because Khushi bitiya is refusing to talk to her even on phone. But what that fight is about... I have no clue. Khushi bitiya just doesn't want to talk about it."

Arnav found this strange. Khushi had shared her father's ordeal with Kaka. Then what had changed now?

If only he knew... If only he knew that HE was the change. She no longer wanted a shoulder to cry on. Because he had shown her what it means to have someone who would fight a battle with you, for you. He had defined the word "companion" for her. A person from whom you had a "right" to demand help. A person who would willingly help you. And that "help" does not entail a favor, which you are obligated to return later.

Khushi herself had no clue how deep and dirty her current problem was. There was a possibility that she might just get out of it easily, unscathed. But there might also be real and tangible predicament. The repercussion of one wrong move might land them all in more trouble. She not only had to safe guard herself but her family too. And who in today's world will take up such kind of headache. Unless you are family. And she was not Arnavji's family, even though she considered him to be her's.

And then there was this heartache that she was dealing with. What did Arnavji want from her...? What was he trying to tell her...? Was he so easy going with other girls too? Even if she let that be, what was she supposed understand from that "Tum theek ho?" And that palpable concern on his face which she mistook for anger. And what about all that long distance care... He was sending confusing signals to her... Was there a chance that he too...?

No..no... couldn't be. Or just may be..? If only she knew what was cooking in that Harvard brain... He was not making it any easy for her either...

Her thoughts were stopped by a tap from Kaka.

"Bitiya... See that board up there... It says that all kinds of baggage has to be kept in a locker. I will go check and make arrangements." He took the backpack from Arnav and the food bag from Khushi. And left to check where their bags could be kept.

Arnav seized the chance to talk to her.

"Khushi... Suno..."

"Ji?"

"Khushi, just tell me... what is the problem?"

"Tch... Phir se? Arnavji, why are you hung up on it... just leave it..." She turned to face the front of the queue fed up with his incessant probing.

"Khushi, you've got to tell me. It's already noon. We hardly have any time to talk...What is the deal with those 40 Lakhs... Who gave you that number? It's no big deal at all... Just take it from me. And fix that problem."

That riled her up. And she snapped.

"Nahi chahiye... Samjhe aap? Nahi chahiye aapke paisey. Nahi chahiye aap ke ehsaan."

"Fine... fine..." Arnav tried to calm her down. Clearly this angle was not working. "Theek hain. At least tell me what the problem is. May be I could come up with a solution."

"Why? Why should I share my problem with you Arnavji?"

"Becau..."

"What right do I have to ask anything from you? With what right do I accept anything from you?" She didn't realize she was raising her voice.

"Watch out Khushi!" He held her in a tight grip by the arm. "We are in a public place. All I am asking you is to just "tell" me what is bothering you." He hissed close to her. "And then we will figure it out who does what?"

"Nahi bataana hain..." She pushed him away. "Nahin bataana hain ... Samjhey aap. I don't want pity from you anymore. I don't want just...just some concern from you anymore. Do you get that?"

"Then what is it you want from me dammit?" He pulled her close to himself.

Khushi held onto his shirt tightly facing up to him. "If you don't know what it is, then there is no point in telling you. And if you already know it, then what's the point in telling you?" Tears trickled down her cheeks... "So, for starters, understand what you want Arnavji."

Her inner voice begged her...Tell him. Tell him right now... No.. I don't want your concerns and worries. I want YOU. All of you. With you behind me, with me, I will deal with Shyam myself.'

"Kya tamaasha chal raha hain yahaan?" A security guard struck his stick on the ground. Arnav and Khushi stood apart from each other.

"Behenji... Is his guy troubling you?"

"Nahin bhaisaab. We are together."

"Toh, ghar ka maamla ghar mein rakho na. Keep your domestic troubles inside your house. There is no need to make public display." He warned them and moved ahead.

Khushi faced the front of the queue and tried to compose herself. But Arnav stood there baffled. What was she talking about? What is it that he didn't know? What is it that he had to figure it out within himself?

Kaka returned saying he had kept the bags in the temple locker. As he attempted to stand between Khushi and Arnav, the temple guard started to yell again.

"Who is that joining the queue in the middle? Go to the end of the queue."

"Arey bhaiyya... I was..."

"Don't argue... Go to the end of the queue right now... Or else I will not let you enter the temple at all."

Kaka surrendered... "Bitiya I will go and stand at the back."

"But how will we keep in touch..." Khushi raised a genuine concern. Both Khushi and Kaka did not have mobile phones.

After some brainstorming, they decided that in case they are not able to touch base with one another they will just board the bus and return.

The queue moved ahead...And Arnav silently stood behind her. Constantly thinking what she was referring to. No... She had not made a random statement... She knew exactly what she was talking about.

***

As the idol of Devi Maiyya came into vision... Khushi felt her soul spell bound and entranced. The sight of the goddess in the sanctum sanctorum was one to behold. Illuminated only with Diyas of Oil and Wicks, Devi Maiyya smiled her blessings on her ardent devotees. Assuring them that she would ward off all their miseries. As the devotees approached closer to the idol their chanting and prayers gained momentum. Everyone was enraptured in the moment. The volunteers in front of the idol pushed the devotees who did not pass by quickly. And one such devotee was Khushi. With her eyes closed, she let loose all her pain. There was nothing that Devi Maiyaa did not already know. Then what was she to do now? Why had Devi Maiyya chosen her to go through all these problems?

What had she done to Shyam? She had not given any wrong signals to him. Then how com she was under his radar.

And why did Devi Maiyya bring Arnavji in her life. If it was not meant to be, then why had fate brought them so close, but yet kept them so apart. This distance from Arnavji was the worst punishment...

She cupped her face with her palms and sobbed into it. While she felt someone push her. And then another familiar pair of hands guided her some distance and let go of her.

***

Arnav followed Khushi silently throughout the queue. Khushi stayed put in front of the idol...and after a few seconds, a temple staff pushed her...asking her to keep going and not block the queue.

Arnav knew Khushi recalled her Devi Maiyya in every other sentence. When pushed, he held her securely and guided her to a spot a step or two away from the moving queue, just so that she had a few more minutes with her Devi Maiyya.

Finally when he had a chance to see her face...Arnav felt the same exasperation and helplessness he felt in the hospital... Why was she making such a big deal about this problem...? She had shared Payal's problem with him... So how was this different...? He wished her Devi Maiyya gave her the presence of mind to share it with him... he was almost at his wits end now... And to see her in so much pain was killing him... And so they stood like that for a few more minutes while the queue passed behind them.

Suddenly there was a commotion. People pushed each other without mercy. They heard others screaming and shouting outside the wide doors of the inner mandir.

Khushi was pushed to the wall where they were standing. A small sculpture carved on the wall was piercing her back. She yelped in pain.

"Khushi..." Arnav shrieked.

He pushed himself between her and the unruly crowd, trying his mighty best to not crush her. Khushi hugged him in fear... Arnav plastered himself onto her...unable to maintain distance between them. He pushed her purse behind her back for protection and held on to her as if his life depended on it. After what felt like a life time the crowd settled down behind him.

Once he found some space, he slowly loosened his hold on Khushi.

Still in his embrace, Khushi raised her face to look at him.

"Arnavji!" She gasped. His eyes were wet with tears.

"Are you alright...?" She cupped his face.

Arnav's face was ridden in pain. Within a span of one week, he was on the verge of losing her... twice.

"Arnavji... are you hurt... tell me..."

"No... I am alright..." He composed himself.

"Kya tum theek ho?" He held her face.

"Hum theek hain Arnavji... Are you sure you are alright..." She ran her hands all over his chest and hands.

"I am ok Khushi... I really am."

In a few minutes they heard an announcement. There has been a stampede in the mandir. And it has been locked down to clear up. So all devotees should stay put and cooperate.

"Kaka!!!" They both looked at each other. Khushi prayed hoping nothing had happened to him.

Just in time Kaka called on Arnav's phone. He was alright. But police were insisting that all tourists should vacate the city. So, Arnav asked him to return home. They were locked inside. And since he and Khushi were together, Kaka should not worry. And yes, his wallet and phone were with him. So they should be able to get home safely.

After several hours, the people trapped inside the mandir were allowed to step out. Slowly, every one made their way out to see the horrific incident outside. The victims of the stampede were being attended to by various people. Khushi shuddered and clasped Arnav's arm. It could have been them. Arnavji could have been hurt too.

Arnav in turn, wrapped his arm around her and slowly they made their way outside the mandir.

Once out, they realized all the buses had left. So, they would have to take a hotel room.

Arnav booked the only available room in a nearby hotel. He asked her to proceed to the room, while he would be back in sometime.

CONTINUED IN THE NEXT POST

Khushi looked around the room. Not so good... but would work for the night. One bed and a blanket... And a chair...Good enough. She will settle on the chair and ask Arnavji to take the bed.

After a good half an hour Arnav was back, with some food and clothes.

"Called home. Kaka has reached. I updated him the situation here and that we will reach tomorrow morning."

"I got some change of clothes and some stuff to freshen up..."

He handed the covers to Khushi. She dug in only to find two pairs of pajamas, t-shirts... And some other stuff.

"Sorry... the women's clothing shop was closed." He clarified.

Picking up a towel and soap for himself he stepped inside the bath room.

Khushi started to lay the food on the table.

Five minutes later he stepped out with the towel loosely tied around his torso. Water droplets on his bare chest and hair dripping with water... Khushi looked at him shell shocked. She turned around closing her eyes with her palms.

"Arey... scene itna bhi bura nahi hain... Kapde le jaana bhool gaya tha..." he chided her instead of apologising. Took his clothes and went into the bathroom.

In couple of minutes, he stepped out - fully clothed - Khushi thanked her heavens.

Next she went in. Arnav switched on the TV. And settled on the bed to watch some news.

10 minutes later Khushi stepped out...

Arnav took her in... From bottom to top... and then top to bottom...

And then he rolled on the bed...laughing his guts out... It never occurred to him that Khushi is couple of sizes smaller than him... Now she was immersed in these baggy clothes... and was holding onto her pant... most likely it was slipping...

"Khushi...this is so hilarious..." he guffawed.

Khushi stilled... She had seen him smile... Only at home...but had never seen him laugh... It had never occurred to her that he could be normal, just like anyone else... He could laugh too...a laughter which was infectious. He looked so different, so... young... like a small mischievous boy.

A small embarrassed smile spread across her face.

"Scene itna bhi bura nahi hain." She stuck her tongue out. "Do you have a belt?"

Arnav only nodded unable to speak pointing at the pant he had worn throughout the day.

She went in and fixed herself.

When she stepped out next, the traces of laughter were still visible on his face.

Arnav watched her... He had seen her at home... Only once when Di was around. But he had kept mostly to himself.

There was something endearing about her right now. Hair tied up, a few wet strands sticking on her neck, a few soft curls escaping and dangling here and there. Face clean and bright. The smile on his face broadened. He liked this... A lot... He felt like kissing her... A loud smack on her cheeks...

"Stop smiling and eat. Why didn't you start?" Khushi handed over a plate to him.

"Ch" He clicked his tongue... "Not without you. Come and sit here..." He scooted to the other side of the bed to make space for her. Gave her the pillow as back rest while he folded the blanket and put it behind his back.

"Arnavji, I will take the chair."

"Shut up Khushi... And relax. We've had a long tiring day. Lay down and stretch your legs."

Khushi sat at the edge. Arnav ate leisurely. And she finished hers quickly and went and stood near the window.

Folding her arms as a shield to the breeze, she went over the events of the day. Devi Maiyya was really testing her, wasn't she?

But, may be, some things were not meant to be.

She had not spoken to her mother for almost a week now, hoping her mother would just forget about it, childishly expecting the problem to solve itself. But she had to take a decision soon. She had no idea if, when and how Shyam would strike. She resolved finally. She would make one last attempt for her mother to understand the reality. If it didn't work out, she would take Chutki and disappear. Her mother was leaving her with no option but to repeat history.

Ok, I understand your decision about Shyam and Amma.

What about Arnavji? Khushi, you've got to tell him. Even now you have a chance. Don't miss it. Tell him... tell him right now. Her inner voice pushed her hard.

NO. I WILL NOT TELL HIM ON MY OWN. She silenced her inner voice with a finality. This war within herself whether to tell him or not, had to be resolved. She could not sit on the fence for every situation in her life.

Khushi, you are just consumed in some mumbo-jumbo norms for love. How does it matter who says it first? When two people love each other... Her conscience tried to explain.

And that exactly is my question? How do you know he loves me? It might be just concern and sympathy? And say, I do tell him about my feelings and say, he even accepts them. Do you want to live a lifetime guessing if Arnavji accepted you out of love or out of sympathy? I will die every moment wondering if he is with me because he pitied me.

And he is a man who doesn't believe in marriage. Tell me, how would you feel if the man you love from the bottom of your heart feels imprisoned in something he doesn't believe in?

Whatever it is, it has to come from him. I will not push him into this. He has to feel it on his own and find his way to me.

Many people have showed me sympathy and pitied me. Even though it hurt me to be constantly taking favours, it did not bother me too much. But Arnavji is very close to my heart. I wouldn't be able to see him in the eye if all he has for me is sympathy and pity. I want to see love and respect. Do you understand the difference, my dear? She explained to her heart.

She looked longingly at her Arnavji. Her heart wept and her eyes misted. If he doesn't find his way to her, she had a long tough life ahead without him. She wished her heart would break right now and she would die. Death was the only way to get rid of this unbearable pain.

Arnav watched her from where he was lying down. She had turned to look at him for a moment but hadn't said anything. Light twinkled from the tears accumulating in her eyes.

He sighed, switched off the TV and kept his plate aside.

"Khushi come here." He stretched his hand towards her.

She just looked at him but didn't move.

"This was the only room available. Come and lie down Khushi. It's been a long day."

"Nahi Arnavji. I am fine. I will take the chair."

"Khushi, look, don't argue. Come and sleep here. I will take the chair. I am used to sleeping in chairs."

"Arnavji. Something's need to be done, no matter what. And some people should not forget where they belong. No matter what. I will take my rightful place. You please sleep on the bed."

"Stop it. Stop this convoluted way of talking. I am this far from going mad." He rushed towards her angrily. "Will you or will you not tell me what's bothering you. Why are you driving me crazy Khushi?"

"And you are driving me crazy too." She said firmly without raising her voice. "The solution is very simple Arnavji. Why don't you just leave me at my plight and carry on with your life."

***

1.30 AM in the MIDNIGHT.

"Uuuhh!!!" Arnav woke up with a start. Panting hard. His T-shirt was soaking with sweat. He had just dreamt of Khushi lying in a pool of blood. He looked around, taking a few seconds to place himself. He saw her scrunched up on the chair, covered up in her dupatta. She shifted pulling her thin dupatta closer, as a wave of mid-night breeze flowed through the window.

Arnav didn't realize when he had dozed off. After that altercation in the night he had gone back to the bed and lied down, completely miffed with her. He had gone over their day's conversations again and again. What was she referring to when she said?

*If you don't know about it, then there is no point in telling you. And if you already know it, then what's the point in telling you.*

Sleep must have overcome him sometime after that.

Coming back to the present, he went over to Khushi to make sure she was ok. Trying hard not to wake her, he gently locked her arms around his neck and gathered her up in his arms. Walking over to the bed he lay her down. The dupatta slipped sometime in between.

Instead of withdrawing he stay put. Her locked arms beckoning him not to abandon her this time. At the moment he felt too vulnerable to stay away from her. He needed to hold her safely in his arms just to confirm that she was alright, safe and sound, with him.

For the moment he just let himself do what he wanted without succumbing to propriety. Instead of withdrawing his arms, he lay down beside her, supporting himself on one of his elbow, with his face directly over hers. She was sleeping like a baby. He encircled his other arm around her.

She had not been difficult today. He admitted to himself. She had just asked some difficult questions. Questions which had been nagging him too, but he had not bothered answering, fearing what he might stumble upon. But in the span of one week, he had almost lost her- thrice - the hospital, today's bus and stampede.

Suddenly he felt extremely vulnerable. His eyes misted. I don't have answers to your questions... He said silently.

You spoke about people being in their rightful places. All I know is that my place is here... With you... In your arms...

His chest constricted with a range of emotions. Tears accumulated and trickled down his eyes... Forming a trail on his nose and dripping just above her ear, disappearing into the hair.

I don't know a lot of things Khushi. But I do know that if I had lost you last week or today, I would be as good as dead myself. I wouldn't know how to live.

I know that I want you in my arms... just like this...forever...

I know that this distance between us is becoming unbearable. At this moment I have reduced the physical distance between us. But as the day breaks, you will again stand apart from me.

Moreover, we have no clue what's happening in each other's lives. I don't like it one bit, Khushi. I don't want to go to Delhi, nor to the US... not anywhere. I want both of us to be together and then carry on together.

He traced his hand along her arm and disentangled her hands behind his neck. Holding her free palm he slowly brought it closer and pressed his lips softly on the back of the fingers and then on the inner side of the palm.

Her loose t-shirt revealed a part of her creamy skin on the shoulder. He realized that there was no other garment between them than the new clothes he had bought just a while ago. Her soft bosom pressing against his hard chest. Her shoulder beckoned him to drop soft kisses of love and trace them along the slender neck, on to her smooth cheek and culminate in capturing her soft pink lips.

He was still holding her palm in his hand. Placing it on his cheek, he leaned to put his thoughts into action. She needed to know how much she meant to him. And he had to let her know.

Khushi moved, at the touch of the day long stubble... and showed signs of waking up and he stilled. What if she saw him so close so her? She would definitely mis-understand him. She would never forgive him. Once she drifted back to sleep, he slid his arms away and walked to the window.

Heaving a big sigh, he sunk his hands in the pockets and hung his head down.

What do you really want Arnav? His inner voice asked him the hard question. Had she not moved, what were you about to do? What is all this? Those tears... tears??? I haven't seen you this vulnerable since...since that incident... all those years ago. Why this urge to show her what she means to you? That feeling in the stampede...? In fact all these feelings for her since the day you met...? Don't you think it is high time you acknowledged that it is...?

LOVE?! He asked it directly, without beating around the bush.

I don't understand the word 'Love'. He placed his dilemma openly. Everyone keeps saying Papa loved Mamma a lot. Either they are lying or that can't be the definition of love. 'Coz what I feel for Khushi is way beyond all of that... I don't have an answer for lot of things, but I do know one thing for sure. I want to 'be' with her. Without these distances that I am forced to maintain - physical, mental, emotional - I want to be 'with her' all the time, not anyone else. You know, even the thought of another moment without her is making me breathless.

Dhak Dhak... Dhak Dhak... Arnav looked at his reflection in the window pane.

There you go Arnav, you've got your answer!! His inner voice concluded.

A small smile adorned his lips. Khushi and him. Khushi with him. He belongs to Khushi. Oh my goodness... Khushi... I am yours, just yours... The small grin expanded into a full blown smile. Is this what is called true happiness? He would explode in happiness right now.

Just when he was reveling in this thought, Arnav heard multiple voices in his head.

One was the voice of young Arnav, the boy and the person he was before his parents died. A boy full of life and innocence. A boy who was resurfacing ever since Khushi had come into his life.

And the next was ASR, who had taken birth just after his parent's death. Who had logically and objectively proved that there was no room for innocent Arnav's in this world. Only shrewd ASRs could survive in this venomous soceity.

First the ASR voice warned. Not so fast Arnav, don't fall into a pit from which you won't be able to recover.

'YOU' have these feeling for her. The ASR voice continued. What about her? Does she have the same feelings for you? Remember our decision - You will not commit to anyone unless you are extremely sure that they are equally committed to you. We don't want to get hurt, do we?

Hmmm... Arnav consciously acknowledged another hard fact. She knows nothing about me. Would she reciprocate my feelings?

What if she came to know about Mamma and Papa? How would she react? Would she want be associated with a man whose father had...? You know, like father... like son?

And my diabetes? Even though we have interacted so much, I don't think she has any clue that I am diabetic. It would be a life style change for her to live with me.

Would she be ok moving to the US, in the next couple of years, given the way the business is improving?

She has a family here to support, will she leave them for me - to be with me - to start a new life with me?

Yes Arnav, both of you can be together. The Arnav voice explained to him. If you marry, you can be together...

Arnav stilled at the thought of marriage. Ever since his parents passed away and his sister's alliance broke, he always thought marriage was a farce this society had built up.

Arnav... Arnav...!!! His young Arnav voice prevented him from remembering those bad days. For once in your life, do not let the ASR in you poison your thoughts. Can you promise me that you will listen to your heart, your true feelings as far as Khushi is concerned? His Arnav voice pleaded him.

All these feelings and hopeful-ness is fine. His ASR voice counter argued. But do you realize how bruised you will be if you were to find out that Khushi only idolizes you as a good boss and professional and nothing more? And how would you feel when her awe and admiration for you is replaced by despise and loathing, when she hears about your Papa...?

I would be heart broken. He accepted openly. But I need to take that chance.

Deep down I have a feeling that our feelings are mutual. Through out today she has shown me glimpses of her real feelings, when she thought I wasn't watching.

'We' need to have closure. For the good of both of us. Either we are together or apart, forever. If she doesn't want to be with me, I should let her go. I cannot keep intruding her life like this. He concluded.

It was time he took a stance. For Khushi. For Himself. For a lifetime together.

He silenced all the voices giving conflicting opinions and listened to his heart.

Yes I will find out if Khushi has same feelings for me. He made a strong resolve. I will not let the demons of the past to haunt my feelings for her. I will lay my heart out. It will be up to her to take me.

But I do need to know that she will say yes out of free will. Not because she feels I am superior to her.

I need to know she is ok with my past, before I convey my feelings.

I want to know if I am the kind of person she wants to be with. She had said a person needs to be bankable for her to spend a lifetime with him. And in the recent past it's exactly the opposite that I have done. Disappearing without a forewarning. I need to fix all this.

And then there is marriage. I stupidly proclaimed that I don't believe in it. She needs to know that I mean to and will' honor the relationship and will not abandon her like her father. That I am hers for life.

All this needs time. I cannot do this with a flight booked just a day away. And with her physically here and me in Delhi.

He closed his eyes to calm himself down. And finally acknowledged.

But I do know, irrespective of what she says, this feeling of true happiness will never fade away. She - Khushi - my true happiness - will be with me forever. And from today, I am her's. I won't be able to share myself with anyone but her, My Khushi, Arnav's Khushi. And I am Khushi's Arnav. He took a deep breath and smiled. This feeling and decision was liberating.

***

Khushi began to toss and turn and finally woke up. She shot up to sit, wondering how she reached the bed. When she saw Arnav near the window she relaxed a bit. He walked up to the bed, pulling the chair along with him.

Sitting on the chair, he held her palm in both of his hands and said -

"Thank you!!" He stared hard at their overlapping hands, lovingly grazing her palm with his thumb and eyes showering affection.

Khushi watched him numbly. Unable to understand what he was talking about.

"Thank you, Khushi!!" He looked at her - His eyes misted, throat constricted, gulping hard, face adorned with the most gratifying smile. He thanked her for letting him feel this overwhelming - all encompassing - joy, which, but for her, he would have never known.

NEXT CHAPTER: DON'T SPARE THE EVIL, NEVER FORGIVE THE DEMON

A/n: Do let me know how you felt. Please COMMENT or hit the LIKE BUTTON. And if I have missed adding you as a Buddy, can you please send a Buddy Request again. I will send the PMs from next time. Thankyou.

Thankyou all.. and lots of love. No matter what, just be happy!! 🤗

-Suri