Arshi FF : Merger Thrd # 2 Link to Thread #3 on Page 1 - Page 89

Missing your update dear.. Come soon

Arnav!!!! When will the 2 of u confess!!! Shyam Ki toh khair Mahi ab jo arnav hai in the scene!! The chapter title is killing me!!! UPDATE!!!! plzzz with a cherry on the top... Update!!!

Oh Lord his family is so melodramatic

btw, forgot to write earlier, that i adored his family...and the confusion was so hilarious...Mami assuming he is married, Nani already warning him that this isnt done and him...hahaha...talking in riddles...hehehehe..."Khushi and I, arent married yet", that was epic...so does that means he is ok with marriage, if Khushi is the bride...😛

pls post next chapter..eagerly waiting..!!

Hello you have disappeared again :-)

Hope everything is ok waiting eagerly

A/n: Hello all... How are you all doing... Deep apologies for this delayed update again. I needed some time to put across this one. Just a reiteration. Arnav and Khushi in this story are taking baby steps towards each other. Many a times, it would be a case of two steps ahead and one step back.

I do believe that, in reality, this is what happens too. Especially in case of a matter where you have made complete emotional investment. Sorry to those who are waiting for the confession. As I said in the earlier update, it is couple of chapters away... please please hold on..

And thankyou...thankyou...thank you so much for your lovely comments... I am really really overwhelmed.

In the previous chapter, I intended to bring out how seriously Arnav takes this relationship. It's a fantasy I always had. Where a man truly' thinks of his wife as an equal. A lot of men say it, but I don't think they even know what it really means or what it entails.

In my thoughts, the life of a person is a set of concentric circles. First there is "You" at the center. With all your likes and dislikes, wishes and wants. Then your children, spouse, parents and siblings. Then your job. Then your extended families and friends. And the world at large.

In our social structure, it mostly happens that the woman starts her marriage with all this. She and her partner talk about how to make a life which includes both their circles of life. But then, eventually, the man's concentric circles thrive and expand. And the woman's circles shrink or become irrelevant.

There are lot of reasons why this happens. Some justified and many not. And its mostly because your spouse does not give the same weightage as you to the circles in your life.

[I am certainly not a feminist. It's just something I keep seeing around me. Just thought of sharing my thoughts with you. I donot intend to offend anyone, my deep apologies if I have.]

But I fantasize of a relationship where each partner expands his/her horizon to include the circle of life of their partner. In my first chapter, I spoke about the word "Sangam". This is what I meant. And when I write the words " A lifetime together", this is what I mean. I mean that two pair of eyes (Arnav's and Khushi's) visualize a life which has aspects of both their lives.

For this chapter, I kind of took time. It was important to capture the rest of the story while narrating the emotional progress of our main couple. With each passing day and event, they are shedding their insecurities, getting more aware of their feelings and gaining the necessary confidence to put across their feelings. A confession is a tangible thing to hear and see to which you can affix a day and time. But the confession itself takes several days to build up. It goes through various stages But I believe the thrill and excitement lies during the days you are building up the confession. First you are unsure about your own feelings and the feelings of the person you love. This is the Not-sure / Not-sure combination. Then it is Sure (about yourself) / Not-sure (about partner) combination. Then Scared-whats-going-to-happen /Not-sure. Then scared-what's going to happen / Almost sure. And then you slowly build the confidence to put the feelings across. This is the stage I am trying to portray now. The days leading to the merger of Arnav and Khushi.

I am however not able to include the Love vs Marriage Section in this chapter. I think I should be able to do it in the next. Sorry for prematurely posting the tag-line.

And lastly, a disclaimer for some technical things I have written. I am no expert in the information technology field. I have tried to apply some common knowledge that I have gathered over the years. If I am wrong, please consider it as a liberty taken by a writer.

Again, I have tried to focus more on our main couple. And not dwelled into the scenes of the peripheral characters like Mallik, Lavanya, Garima and Chutki. Had to keep it at a minimum as the update is long in itself. I will try and cover them in the upcoming chapters.

Hope I wont disappoint you. So here goes the next chapter.

CHAPTER 27

As Khushi held his hand, Arnav felt twice as strong to deal with Mallik and Shyam.

He held her hand firmly and guided her to sit.

"Do you remember Khushi, during the initial days, what were the three things that I always focused on in any meeting?"

"Customers, Suppliers and Supply-Chain."

She answered. There was no way anyone could forget it. Arnavji had imbibed those concepts in their blood.

"Exactly!!!"

"Mallik Fashions has seen unprecedented rise in profits due to improvement in these areas. And, simply put, my plan is to choke these exact areas of business."

Khushi looked on doubtfully.

"See, in any business, these 3 areas, pretty much make the core of its existence. If one falls apart, the business can still sustain and take corrective action. But when all of them collapse at the same time, then no business can take the hit. It will be wiped out in days."

"But how will you make this happen Arnavji?"

"That you leave it to me."

Khushi's face fell. And here she was thinking they were in this together.

Seeing her fallen face, Arnav corrected his stance. "Khushi," he said softly. "The fact is, in my earlier plan, I was planning to confront Mallik head-on, once he was crushed. But now, I have to tweak the plan to keep ourselves anonymous AND tackle Shyam. Give me some time to rearrange my thoughts. OK?"

She nodded a yes hesistantly.

"In the mean time, there is lots to do. Hold on..."

<<<He called Aman and asked him to arrange for a laptop with an mobile internet connection, which cannot be linked to anybody in his office. He gave specific instructions that the purchase needs to be on payment of cash. And with no name on the receipt.>>

Khushi looked at him confused.

Once he cut the call, he explained.

"Khushi, I have access to the main books of accounts of Mallik Fashions. Something I managed to get during my initial days at the company. Thanks to my Harvard and US credentials, people were more than accommodative for my requests, in that company."

"You are a very good analyzer of Financial Statements. I want you to scan through the books of Mallik Fashions. I am sure Mallik and Shyam have left traces of their dirty work somewhere. It'll be just a matter of time before we can dig up a lot of dirt."

Khushi sat silently without responding.

"Khushi, what's wrong... Is something bothering you?"

"Ummm... Arnavji. What if Mallikji or Shyamji trace it back to us, once they try to find out where exactly things went wrong?"

"They wont be able to. Atleast not this way. You see, we will not be directly accessing the books. That way, the location of the computer would be revealed. I had thought through this problem earlier. We would be accessing a randomn computer in Mallik's Fahions' Head Office. And through that computer, we would log in to the books of accounts. The log in ID belongs to an old timer employee, who has left the company many years ago. So, no body will be able to trace it back to us."

"Say, in a long shot, they do trace it back, then they will have no clue as to the owner of the laptop. The internet connection will in the name of a third party. And even if Mallik or Shyam file a case on us, it will be dismissed within minutes as they cannot link anything, on record, back to us."

"Khushi trust me on this."

He held her hand and squeezed it to assure her.

***

TWO HOURS LATER

He made a phone call to his PRO Agency.

"Hi Ms. PRO. This is ASR here."

Arnav addressed her huskily.

"Hello Mr. Raizada!!"

The PRO gushed into the phone pleasantly surprised at having received a personal call from the hottie himself. She always had a thing for him...!

"Hope I have not caught you at an inconvenient hour."

Arnav was at his sweetest best.

"Not at all Mr. Raizada. Always happy to be at your service. Please tell me, what can I do for you?"

"Well, Ms. PRO. I have heard something through the grapevine. Infact, from CEOs of three Textile Mills that I know personally. Apparently there is a big fish in the market. A European Company. And there are planning to buy out atleast 5 Indian companies. Mostly Mid-sized companies. Have you heard anything of this sort?"

"No Mr. Raizada."

The PRO frowned into the phone. She had not heard any such thing. And she had very good contacts in the Apparel Industry. But if ASR is saying something, then there had to be some truth in the matter.

"Hmmm... Thought so. My friends in the industry have confirmed that this is very hush-hushed. And the companies who are being offered for a take-over are being approached directly. Mostly Executive Directors or Head of Marketing or Head of Strategy."

"Mr. Raizada. Do you happen to know which are these companies?"

"I don't remember all of them. But I will tell you a few. He mentioned 3 companies, thinking about their names on the go. But deliberately slipped in the name of Mallik Fashions."

"Alright Ms. PRO."

Arnav sighed, feigning disappointment. "I guess, my contacts were mislead with a rumour. I was hoping that you would know about this big-shot company. And you would help us make some contacts. I am not looking for a take over or anything. My company is too small as of now. But if you come to know of anything, then do let me know. I would like to see if I can get some business out of this company."

"Most definitely Mr. Raizada. We will not fail to meet your expectations, Sir."

The PRO sugar coated her words.

"Of course Mr. Raizada. I will make enquiries about this company inconspicuously. Please be rest assured Sir. None of our names will be out in the market."

She assured him, feeling very proud to have become his confident.

***

MR. JHA'S OFFICE

<<His Mobile ringing>>

"Hello Mr. Jha... Arey... Aap to chupey rustom nikley bhai...?"

It was the Head of Finance of Mallik Fashions.

"Arey... aisi koi baat nahi hain, Mr. CFO."

Shyam blushed in reply. The entire Management Team of Mallik Fashions had heard the news. Not only them, even the Marketing Head and NK (The head of strategy) had received congratulatory calls. They were among the lucky ones to be chosen by the big European Company.

"Arey Jha sahib. In all this, don't forget about us, Sir."

The CFO reminded him slimily. "Afterall, I have had a big hand in shaping up the books as they are today. Of course, it was your idea. Par mehnat to hamari hain." He drawled in his usual foxy demeanor.

"Mr. CFO. Watch your tongue. How many times have I asked you not to talk about it over phone?"

Shyam grit his teeth. What if someone overheard their conversation? This idiot would give away their secrect.

"Arey Jha Saheb, I just called you to ask you to keep our beak wet too... If this take-over happens, then you' will walk away with loads of cash. But what about me Sir?"

He sang into the phone. "I have a family too. A wife who wishes for a mahal'."

"Mr. CFO. You will of course get your share. We are in this together."

Shyam tried to cut the conversation to the minimum.

"Thankyou Jha Sahib. I hope you will keep us rewarded. And we will continue to serve you."

The CFO chomped on his gutka.

"I have to go Mr. CFO. I am getting another call."

Shyam cut short the conversation. He had to do something about this Hyena, before he lands him in any trouble.

***

Then again, Arnavji spoke about how his Chacha had harmed his family and brought about his parents death. But at the end of the day, it all happened 13 -

14 years ago. This quest for revenge has been simmering in him for literally, half of his lifetime. He had already lost his parents. And people like his Chacha are like venomous snakes. There was no telling when they would strike again. She knew she was selfishly seeking Arnavji's safe keeping. How do I ask him to back off? Even if he takes his revenge, his parents will not be back. What if all this led to more harm? Arnavji said in no uncertain terms that he will go after Mallik and Shyam. May be in a few days... may be by timing my talk... I should be able to show him a different path to tread... Instead of wasting his life on people like Mallik and Shyam, he should look forward towards a positive and lively life. And may be if they put their heads together, they might find a simpler way to deal with Shaymji.

For now, Amma and Chutki were safe. Arnavji had made sure of that by putting security guards outside her house.

Even though Arnavji had bought her some time, she had to find a way out. And frankly beyond disappearing, her mind did not come up with anymore ideas.

***

CONTINUED IN NEXT POST

Shortly afterwards, her lunch arrived. Carried in by an adorable Office boy.

"Good Aaabternoon Madamji. Lunch for you."

His lively voice was a welcome change.

Khushi smiled at him.

"Myself Munna. ASR sahibji has asked me to take special care of you."

"Achcha?"

Khushi smiled at the boy who looked just out of teenage.

"Do you need anything else madamji? Some juice, coffee... some more food?"

"Arey, nahi. This itself is a lot..."

"Ok Madamji, I will come back in 30 minutes. Is that sufficient time to finish your lunch?"

Kushi looked at him confused at this weird question.

"Woh... ASR saabji has given me strict instructions to report to him if you skip your meal."

He clarified. "He told me that if you don't eat, then I am fired." His saabji would win the competition for most weird reason for firing a person.

"Achcha?"

Khushi giggled. "Has your ASR saabji finished his lunch?"

"Nahi Madamji. And I don't think he will eat anytime soon. Company Lawyers have come. And they have all entered the big conference room. That means some important meeting is going on. And no one is allowed to go inside. Food is very far fetched."

Khushi's eyebrows creased.

"You have your food Madamji. Paapi pet ka sawal hain. Aapka bhi aur mera bhi. Bhuliyega nahi, my tummy is full as long as your tummy is full."

Khushi smiled at the young boy's comment. And began to eat.

Munna promptly came half an hour later. And SMSed his saabji that she had finished her lunch. Cleared the plates and went away.

In the evening, he came in with tea. Khushi asked where ASRji was? Still in the meeting, replied Munna. No, he had not had his lunch. "Arey Madamji. Why do you worry? Everyone in the office thinks that ASR sahib lives by gulping air. Only mortals like you and me need food." He chuckled, messaged his sahib that Khushi madam has had her tea and biscoot, cleared the cup and went away.

In the evening, the driver came to drop her home. She waited for him for sometime. But Anjali insisted that she sleep. There was no telling when Chotey would come.

As she lay on her bed, her thoughts went to her mother and little sister. She was so consumed in the events of the day, that she had missed talking and updating them altogether. Arnavji had said he has arranged for security guards for them. May be she could call one of them and talk to Chutki atleast. What was her fault in all this? Sleep consumed her within minutes, after such a long and eventful 48 hours.

Next morning, Naaniji said that Chotey had left at 5 am. She saw him leave, when she got up. The driver picked Khushi up, soon after breakfast and dropped her again in the evening. All day Arnavji was locked up in the big conference room. Munna reported that he had carried only sandwiches in the morning. And nothing else after that. But her lunch and snacks were brought in promptly. And SMSes sent to Arnavji that she had eaten them.

Day 3 was no different either. At dinner, she subtly urged Anjali to check on Arnavji. If he will join them for dinner.

"Arey Khushiji, we are used all this."

Anjali brushed aside her worries. "Chotey lives and breathes his work. And don't worry, he would have had something in his office."

But how was she to tell them that he has hardly been eating any food. His health would suffer if he continued like this.

Post dinner, she decided to wait up for him. She pretended to be asleep beside Anjali. But her senses were wide alert.

Around 12 in the night, she thought she heard some noises in the living room. She stepped out of her room quietly, not wanting to wake anyone up.

The living room was illuminated with a dim light. And she saw Arnavji collapsed on the couch. With his legs perched up on the center table, hair in dis-array, tie loosened, shirt crumpled, sleeves folded up. Coat and bag carelessly thrown on the floor.

She rushed into the kitchen and served a plate with roti and sabji and went back to him.

Shaking him softly by the shoulder she said "Arnavji, eat something. You will feel better."

Arnav snapped his eyes open and sat up straight. "Khushi.. Tum? Why aren't you sleeping? You must be tired after working all day." Khushi frowned at the irony. Who was telling whom?

"Arnavji, first you eat something."

"Tch... I don't want anything..."

He pushed the plate away and slumped back on the sofa, closing his eyes.

"Arnavji... Did you eat your dinner?"

"U-huh. The meetings got over only at 10 pm. Don't worry, I had an energy bar."

"Arnavji... that is not good... Eat only two rotis... I will not force you anymore..."

She said warmly. Something is better than nothing.

"Stop it Khushi."

He sprang back. "Don't pester me at this time of the night." He was tired as it is. And he had no bandwidth to talk to anyone right now.

Khushi stood straight, slightly taken aback by his outburst.

"Fine, mat khaayiye (don't eat)."

She snapped. She stomped towards the kitchen. And came back after keeping the plate there. And started to search his laptop bag.

"Kya kar rahi ho tum?"

"Aapse matlab?"

She found what she was looking for -

Energy bars, that too 4 of them. She held them in her hand and zipped the bag.

She took couple of steps towards the kitchen and turned back. "Toh aap bhi sun lijiye. From tomorrow you will get only one kind of SMS. Khushi Madam did not have her mid-morning tea. Khushi Madam did not have her lunch. Khushi Madam did not have her evening tea or snack." She warned him brandishing the energy bars in her hand.

"Tch.. put the bars back, Khushi... And leave me alone please."

He drawled, feeling tired.

"Dheere... Everybody is sleeping."

She admonished in a hushed voice. "And No... I am not giving the bars to you. They are going where they rightfully belong. In the trash can." Saying so, she stomped to the kitchen.

Just as she was about to throw them, Arnav stopped her. Pulling her back by the arm. The bars fell down.

"Pagal ho gayi ho tum? Are you stupid...?"

"Haan... I am stupid... How does it matter? Chodiye humein..."

she tugged at his hand to let go of her.

"Khushi... calm down..."

Arnav told her sternly, squeezing her arm in the process.

"Calm down? You are asking me to calm down? For three days you are killing yourself with work. Without Food, without rest. And you are asking me' to calm down?"

"What if your sugar levels go out of control... What if your diabetes worsens... What if something happens to you? Have you spared a thought how will I live another moment knowing you are killing yourself every minute?"

Arnav did not miss the point. She would not be able to live another moment, without knowing how he was doing. His heart was enveloped in the warmth of her concern. His breath hastened. Does she feel for me just as I do for her?

"Boliye..."

He felt her shoving his chest several times. "Ab chup kyun hain. Is this responsible behavior?"

In a jiffy, his soft feelings were replaced with irritation. He was not a small boy. "Stop it Khushi... this is how big businesses are built. And this is how people like Mallik are brought down. So don't give me gyan', alright?" He dismissed her mis-placed worry.

"Fine."

She cut the conversation abruptly and started to walk towards the kitchen exit.

"What fine? You cant walk out like this. We are in the middle of a conversation."

"Ji haan... I can. Infact, I am leaving, first thing in the morning. Then you can happily continue to do whatever you want."

"Khushi... stop it... what's with you...?"

He pulled her back.

"Chodiye Humein..."

she struggled to get out of his handhold.

Fed up, Arnav lifted her and propped her up on the kitchen counter and blocked her by placing his hands on either side.

"Khushi... Khushi...listen to me..."

"Leave me... let me go."

Khushi kept pushing him by his shoulders and arms.

"Khushi...Tell me... what's wrong... why are you behaving like this..."

He leaned more on her knees, moving closer to her.

Her pushing and shoving became weaker and slower. She crunched up his shirt near his collar.

After a few moments of hesitant pushing and shoving and silence, she said softly.

"You had promised me..."

"Promised what?"

He asked her huskily.

"Promised me that you will not let this Mallik Fashions plan get in the way of life."

"Tch... now when did I go back on that promise."

He placed a finger under chin, asking her to look at him. But she didn't oblige. Her eyes were cast on her hand on his shirt. Her fore finger making randomn designs on it. The thin fabric of the shirt was not enough to hold back the warmth oozing out of her. Arnav found himself calming and relaxing, reveling in this small but intimate gesture.

"For three days you haven't eaten or rested."

She pricked and pulled an imaginary lint on his shirt. Eyes downcast, tears brimming at its tips. "Do you know what it feels like Arnavji?"

"How does it feel?"

He placed his hand gently on her waist, urging her to share more of her feelings... yearning to know more of her feelings for him...

"You force me to eat, while you are starving yourself... And on top of that you have kept a guard to check if I have eaten or not. While I have no clue where you are... or if you have eaten. You come after we sleep... leave before we wake up... I haven't seen you in 3 days... despite living in the same house."

"Why?"

Arnav stopped her monologue.

She raised her eyes to look at him, unsure what he was asking particularly.

"Why does it bother you if I have eaten or slept? Why do you want to see me every day?"

"For the exact same reason as you keep track of me."

"That's not an answer. Tell me why? Kyun Khushi... Why does it bother you?"

"Kyun ki... hum... hum..."

her tender eyes stared at him in dilemma. How was she going to tell him? That she loved him with all her heart. Her hand hesitantly tugged at the garment in its hold. Arnav sensed the pull on his shirt. She was yearning to fall in his embrace. And he was more than waiting to give himself in. But some nagging thoughts were still holding him back.

"Agar yahi sawal main karoon toh?"

Khushi broke their silence, trying to pull her focus away from her need to hug him.

"Why do you keep track of what I am doing?"

She asked him in turn.

"Kyun ki mujhe farak padta hain... If you are alright or not..."

He answered honestly, to the point.

"Kyun...?"

"Don't you know why...?"

He asked her gently, hovering affectionate eyes all over her face. Don't you know already, that I don't want to live a day without you? Don't you know I am hating this distance... this hesitation between us... I want to be with you as soon as I can and share a lifetime. And if all this working can bring us together even a day earlier, then I will work harder to make it happen.

Khushi felt her heart thudding away again. Colour rose in her cheeks... She looked here and there, flustered at his question... What is this that Arnavji keeps hinting at? Why doesn't he say it clearly?

She moved in her spot, indicating she wanted to get down the kitchen counter. Arnav sighed and released his hold on her. And slowly took a step back. She slid down and took a step or two towards the kitchen doorway, when Arnav held her back again.

"Khushi, trust me... I will not let anything happen to you. I am taking utmost care in whatever I am doing."

"Hamein aap pey poora vishwas hain Arnavji. I know you will not let anything happen to me. But I donot trust my fate. You are putting yourself through all this only because of me. And if something were to happen to you in the process, I will not be able to live another day."

She lay her fears out in the open.

Arnav sighed. She was taxing herself with unnecessary guilt. "And why do you think I am doing all this only because of you?"

"Don't indulge me Arnavji... Only because Shyamji is a threat at the moment, you have revived your old plan. Had I not been in the picture, then all this wouldn't have happened at all."

"Wrong... you are not the cause for any of this. And I am doing this mostly for myself and because Mallik deserves this. And coming to Shyam, he is just a small fish whom I am going to handle when the time is right... Ok?"

Despite his explanation, she did not believe him. She thought he was just being too nice and protective.

"Khushi, go get some sleep. I am also going to sleep now."

He clarified before she bombarded with her line of questions.

"Will I see you at breakfast?"

"I will try... but wont promise."

Bidding a goodnight, they both walked to their separate rooms.

***

The next morning, the entire family saw Khushi's spirits transformed, the moment she heard from Mamaji that Chotey was still asleep on his bed.

She quickly went into the kitchen, offering Anjali and Mamiji that she would make the breakfast that day.

Her timing was just right when she had laid the dining table. Arnav walked out of his room, spic and span.

"Chotey, naashta ready hain. Have your breakfast and leave."

"Nahi Di. I have a meeting which starts in 30 mins. I am already running late."

He hurried towards the foyer to wear his shoes.

And Khushi ran after him miffed. What was the use of the previous night's argument, if he is going to behave the exact same way?

"Arnavji.. chup chaap chaliye aur naashta kijiye"

"Didn't you hear what I just said."

He said equally upset, slipping his one foot into a shoe. "I don't have time."

"Then fine. I will send Munna back everytime he comes today."

"Tch... what logic is this?"

He stood up and started to wear his coat.

"Arnavji, you promised."

"Khushi, not now. You have picked up a bad sense of timing for everything now a days."

"Arnavji, don't change the topic. It is about your food. Not my sense of timing."

The family behind silently heard the bickering taking place at the entrance of the house. Each member baffled by the gal of this girl to take takkar' with the Lion himself.

The ever truce-making Anjali came up with a pragmatic idea. She packed both their plates and walked swiftly towards them.

"Achcha baba. Both of you stop fighting. Here take the breakfast and eat in the car?"

"Ab Khush?"

Anjali tried to cheer both of them.

Arnav grunted in annoyance. But Khushi hugged her with a wide smile. "Anjaliji... only you can handle this Akdoo Singh Raizada." She made a face and ran inside to get her bag.

As the duo left the house bickering again, one person sighed a breath of relief after 14 long years. Finally she would be able to tell her daughter that her Chotey is now in safe hands.

The rest of the day and week saw a pleasant change. ASR spared 10 minutes every 4 hours as a snack break. He not only fed himself, but also the people in the meetings. And once he was done eating, an email was sent to a certain someone, that she can start eating her food too.

7 DAYS INTO EXECUTION OF THE PLAN

Khushi sensed that Arnavji was sitting alone in his cabin. For a week now, she had been searching the Mallik Fashions books of accounts. But everything seemed so straight forward and clear. May be Mallik and Shyam were honest businessmen.

As time went by, her unease increased as well. How long can she sit like this, doing nothing about her situation. How long would security guards stand outside her house? She had been in touch with Chutki through one of the security guards. They had all been worried sick as to what would happen on Sunday, when Shyamji was due to arrive for the wedding. But to their relief, he had not shown up. And to make matters more complicated, the phone at the STD booth close to their house had mysteriously gone under repair. So, there was no contact between Amma and Shyam.

***

Khushi opened the door of the private conference room, connected to Arnav's cabin and checked with him,

"Arnavji, I need to talk to you. Can you spare some time."

"Come Khushi... Look I have some interesting developments to show."

He folded the magazine he was reading and pointed at the article he wanted her to read. Khushi took the magazine and sat on the chair opposite to him.

IS THIS THE END OF THE RISE AND RISE OF MALLIK FASHIONS??!!

Mallik Fashions seems to be treading on a bumpy road over the past week. Earlier in the week we saw the share prices of Mallik Fashions sky rocketing, thanks to unconfirmed reports in the Apparel Industry that Mallik Fashions would be approached by a big shot European Company with a bid to take over their business. While that has not seen the light of the day, things have taken a turn towards the worse for Mallik Fashions.

It seems to have been adversely affected by the other rumour raging in the Industry. We have yet another unconfirmed report that PAN INDIA Logistics Company has made a move to completely acquire its two associate companies

- North India Logistics and South India Logistics Company. These acquisitions will no doubt bring a phenomenal change to the Logistics Industry in India. The three companies together intend to give state of the art service to its customers at discounted prices going forward. While most companies have received these acquisitions as a welcome change that the Industry has been awaiting since a long time, some companies like Mallik Fashions have accused this move as a path to monopoly and destroy mid-size companies like itself. It is clearly a case of calling the grapes sour as our source informs us that some companies, including Mallik Fashions have been black-listed by a Due Dilligence team over-seeing the merger of the top 3 Logistics Companies in India. The DD team has given an advisory that PAN India, North India and South India logistics Companies should abstain from dealing with companies like Mallik Fashions. As they are running high on business risks and are making payments 4 months later than the industry average.

The report has resulted in such adverse state of affairs in Mallik Fashions that they have neither been able to get their supplies in to their factories, nor move their final products out. We will be keeping a constant vigil on this company to report you with any latest news.

Our current evaluation is :

DO NOT BUY SHARES OF MALLIK FASHIONS.

Khushi read the article... and re-read it... and then re-read it...

Arnav hoped she would guess whose doing it was? But her act of staring at the short article for this long a time surprised him.

"What are you looking at Khushi?"

He asked her, drumming the table, unable to contain his excitement anymore.

"Something is wrong. I think this article is wrong. You should not believe it."

She replied, frowning upon the paper.

"What the?!!"

He exclaimed. How can she say that PAN India is not taking over North and South India Logistics. After all, AR India had acquired controlling power in PAN India logistics almost a year ago. And he had initiated acquisition of North India and South India Logistics Companies since then. Last week he had made the final offer for take over and the managements of both companies had given a positive response. And it was under his direct instructions that the the report by the Due Diligence team had been taken seriously and all the three companies stopped doing business with the black listed companies, which included Mallik Fashions. Basically, the entire last week has gone in making sure that this small article is backed by facts.

"Khushi, every bit in that article is true. I know it for a fact, because I made it happen. AR India has controlling power in PAN INDIA logistics Company. And we have made an offer just last week to take over the other two companies."

"Arnavji, are you sure that every word in this article is true."

"Of course damnit. It took my team 10 drafts before I gave my final approval on that article."

Arnav was downright irritated now. Her reaction was totally unexpected.

What were you thinking Arnav,

the ASR in him chided... That she would jump with joy and hug you and say I love you?

Well, I don't mind that at all...

The Arnav in him replied cheekily.

Do you realise that's what you fantasize all the time now a days. That Khushi would use any random excuse to "Jump with Joy. Hug You. And Say I Love You.

And then, I would get to kiss her. I cant wait for it.

Here I am, working my a*s off every day. Juggling a thousand things. And all you do is fantasize the life ahead with her.

ASR jibed.

Atleast one of us has gotta live dude.

Arnav retorted.

A soft click of the shutting door brought Arnav back to the present. He loved this tiff within himself. The Arnav in him day-dreamed about what life could be with her. And like always, the cynical ASR would remind him that she did not know of his bitter past.

Shirking his thoughts, he decided to check with her at the end of the day. Because right now, he had a thousand things needing his attention.

***

Consumed in her thoughts, she went back to the private conference room, without saying a word further.

That's when she started to work frantically. She re-visited all the reports she had made. A hypothesis started to formulate slowly in her mind.

She checked Sales. Then the Customers. Then the money received from the Customers.

Then she checked Purchases. Then the Suppliers. Then the money paid to the Suppliers.

She checked the ratios. Time lines of sale and purchases. The companies involved.

She was interrupted when Arnav walked in to the room at 11 in the night.

"Khushi. Shall we leave?"

Arnav stood at the other end of the conference table, closer to the door.

She was deeply engrossed in her work.

"Arnavji. You leave. I need some more time."

"Have you found something?"

"Tch Arnavji. I am not finished yet. And I don't want to give you half

baked information. Give me some more time. You go home. I will try and keep my reports ready by the time you return in the morning."

"Are you crazy? Do it tomorrow. Chalo, let's go".

"Nahi Arnavji."

She said it with a sense of finality. "I will come only when I am done."

"Theek hain. I will wait."

He lay down on the sofa at the corner of the conference room.

Khushi was too consumed in her work. She did not extend the conversation.

Arnav watched her working intently. They both were not very different from each other, were they?

And then she has the gal to yell at you for working so hard.

His cynical ASR started again.

Look who's talking. You are the one who goes all restless when she is miffed with you.

Arnav, the young boy, teased ASR.

Of course. How can one work in peace, when you know that some one is upset with you.

Well... Well... Finally. Finally you have acknowledged that she affects you too. That you love it when she shows mock-anger. When it is actually deep seated concern.

Join hands with me ASR. We are hopelessly in love with her.

The Arnav in him proded the ASR.

Ahem...there's... there's nothing like that...

Arnav loved these internal bickering nowadays, between his ASR and Arnav sides. Chuckling within at their conversation, he closed his eyes to rest a while. A small smile of contentment adorning his lips.

And didn't realize when sleep over took him.

He woke up with a start in sometime. His eyes spotted Khushi completely engrossed in her work. What time was it? Now look who's gone crazy over work? He casually looked at the time on his phone. 4.48 AM?

"Khushi... What are you doing... Chalo, lets go home. You need to rest..."

"Arnavji, I am not done yet. Just a while more. You wont believe what I found. Freshen up quickly. I need your full attention. I want you to confirm my findings."

Arnav joined her within minutes, fully alert.

"Arnavji, your report says that in the past 3 to 4 days, Mallik Fashions has not seen any purchase or sale of products. Right?"

She started from where they had left off the previous morning.

"Yes."

Arnav allowed her to lead the conversation.

"But I have been literally stalking the books every day in the past one week. Goods "have" indeed been moving in and out of their factories."

"How is that possible? I have guards spying on the entry and exit gates of all their factories. Not a single truck has moved in or out."

"I presumed so too. Which could only mean one thing."

She widened her eyes, urging him to guess what it was.

And Arnav didn't disappoint her. "Which only means that what are have been looking at, especially since 3 days, are all sham entries?"

"EXACTLY!!"

"Look at these reports I have made since yesterday Arnavji."

She pulled him closer. Arnav bent in to have a closer look at the screen. Their faces only inches apart. Both their stomachs constricted with bubbles of excitement, wondering if their guess was true. Hearts pounding. But their minds holding them back, asking them to check and double check the findings.

Khushi systematically started to walk him through all the reports she had made.

"Arnavji, This is the sales report for the last three days. These are fake sales. I compared these statements of these fake customers with some other customers. Very clearly, the other customers are making payments after 30 days, as per Industry standards. But these fake customers make a fake payment within 3 days."

"And that money goes into a fake bank account."

"And then there are suppliers. Again, payments to these fake suppliers are made with 3 days. Unlike 4 months for other normal suppliers."

"Again, payment to suppliers is made using the fake bank account."

"You will observe that at the end of any month, the balance in the fake bank account is always ZERO. Which cant be. You need to maintain some minimum balance in all bank accounts. Else, the bank would charge you some bank charges for maintaining low balance. We don't see any such entries in this account."

"And since the balance is ZERO, in all the accounts

- CUSTOMERS, SUPPLIERS and BANK ACCOUNT...."

"They don't show up in any reports."

Arnav completed her sentence. "And they manage to remain under the radar of any scrutiny."

"But what is the purpose? Who can draw money from a fake bank account? Why would you want to go through all this trouble, without any benefit?"

Suddenly a thought struck him.

"Hold on Khushi. Can you run the report since the time I joined?"

"I have already done that Arnavji."

She showed him the report.

"Khushi, the fake entries have started since a month or two after I gave the idea of the IPO. Which means... Which means, all this has been done to increase the profits of the company..."

"which means a more healthy balance sheet..."

Khushi continued with his thoughts.

"Which means better Share Prices"

Arnav concluded.

"Oh My God Arnavji. Are we actually looking at a scam?"

She stood up cupping her mouth, shocked at the new revelation.

"That's the only explanation, Khushi."

Arnav stood up too and started to pace around.

"This is gold. This is gold... Now all we need is to gather who has bought and sold Mallik Fashion shares, since the IPO. And if I am right, it would be only Mallik."

"Do you realise how big this is, Khushi?"

He held her by the arm and shook her in excitement.

"I was hoping that they would take the bait, when I slipped in the idea of the IPO. But what I didn't know was that they would be greedy enough to cook up the profits of the company by almost 25%."

"These fools have dug their own graves Khushi. One anonymous phone call to the authorities and Mallik is finished."

"Do you get that... Khushi? Mallik is finished..."

"Ji Arnavji"

. Khushi smiled in excitement. "We only have to find out who has been trading with Mallik Fashions shares, since the IPO. If it is anyone from the Management Team, then they can be accused of insider trading too. That has far worse punishment." She equipped him with more weapons to strike at Mallik.

"Wow... Oh...wow... I cant believe this. How did I miss this all these days? I was sitting on a gold mine all along. And have been stupid to not use it all this while."

"Arnavji, how would you have known? This thing came out only when you bought the company to a stand still. Else, this entire scam was very cleverly camouflaged."

"Khushi... I can finally strike him. Do you see that?"

Arnav held her by the arm. Shaking her in excitement. "Finally, finally I have something real and tangible to strike at Mallik. Its all because of you. Its all because of you." He hugged her close and tight. Khushi was hardly able to breath, but all that was out of her mind. She was so happy to see him this happy!

Khushi shared the elation that Arnav was feeling at the moment. She was hardly able to breath when he took her in a strong embrace. His tight hold was creating havoc within her. On one side it was satiating her longing to be cocooned in his arms and then again, it was giving birth to a stronger ache in her core. A pining which told her that living without him was almost going to be next to impossible.

Arnav continued to hold her in tight embrace, but shifted his head a little back and said "You have no idea Khushi, since how long I have been looking forward to this day. And I didn't think it would happen so soon. Thankyou... thankyou..." He kissed her hard on the cheek. And the moment stilled...

Khushi froze, eyes wide open, as a spark zipped through her entire being.

When Arnav realized what he had done, his lips were still pressed against her cheek. It was an act purely out of impulse, overwhelmed by the sudden turn of events and information.

Had he withdrawn immediately, the kiss would have just been a friendly peck. But he did not. Rather, someone or something inside him had taken complete control of his senses. And made him stay put. His lips retreated back to position but the tip still lingered on her cheek. His nose pressed against her cheek bones, breathing her scent in.

The colour on her cheek was rising by the moment. Was it due to the kiss or his lips grazing on her cheek or his warm breath? Or was it was because of the havoc all these were creating within her? Khushi could not tell. She shut her eyes, pursed her lips tight and crunched up the sides of her dress, not knowing how to deal with this new ache in her gut. And then she felt it again. His lips pressed against her cheeks. But unlike last time this one was very slow...soft... tender... infact a caress... as if she was a delicate petal. And he kissed again..and again.. and again. A series of soft kisses trailing them across her cheek towards her ear and hair. And finally, he hid his face in her nape.

Khushi felt herself completely paralysed with each passing caress. He had asked her "Don't you know?"

a few days ago. And she had been confused with his hints then. But now she knew. When words had failed him, he had shown in his own way what she meant to him. In his own way he had told her how precious she was to him.

Arnav felt himself surrendering to the need to be close to her... his anchor. He tucked himself in her nape, hiding himself away from the world. His heart yearned for her caress... for acceptance. But she had not responded. She stood still through all his gestures. Her hands were fixated at her sides. She had not even acknowledged his embrace. Did she... Did she not like his actions... Was she upset...? His heart began to sink... May be she doesn't like him that way... Just when he was about to withdraw, he felt her hands. First on his hips and slowly moving up on his back. He felt her body go limp against him. Pressing further into him. He pulled her closer. And surprisingly that was possible too. He could not name what he felt now. He only knew that he had arrived... His heart was safely cocooned in her soft bosom.

Their hearts thudded against each other in symphony. Despite in close hold of each other, they were still frustrated. As if there was some more distance lingering between them. They both shifted closer and closer, if that was even possible. Giving themselves up to the other.

Arnav had to know... Had to know for sure if he was right that she loved him too. He raised his head and cupped her face with one hand, holding her close with the other. He grazed the spot where he had kissed her earlier, with his thumb. Khushi slowly opened her eyes feeling his breath on her lips.

And, for Arnav, all doubts vanished at that moment. Because what he saw in her eyes was pure unadulterated love and devotion for him. She had unconditionally and indisputably given her heart and soul to him.

When she felt his thumb graze her cheek and his breath fanning against her lips, Khushi shivered imagining what could happen next. She opened her eyes to see him and now it was her turn to be taken aback. The kisses were no match to the eyes essaying his feelings for her. This moment was enough for her to live a lifetime. To know that someone held and revered you in their heart. But was she being fair to him...? She only took things from him, never ever giving anything in return. In what way was she a match to him? This would completely be an imbalanced relationship. And would there be a relationship? He did not believe in marriage. And even if it did happen would he regret it after some time? Especially given the kind of parents she had. Who would stay unaffected by her family and background, and see her for herself for an entire lifetime?

Arnav was so overwhelmed with what he saw in her eyes. And a sudden guilt washed through him all of a sudden. She had walked behind him without asking any questions that day, when he had picked her up from her house. She came to Delhi to live in his house, again no questions asked. No, she had not come due to the Shyam-issue. She had figured her own solution for it. She had come for him, to be with him. Without asking or hoping for any commitment from his end. She had risked a heart break, if he decided to dissociate from her. Even though it was unintentional, he had so selfishly tested her all these days. Asking her to prove her unconditional faith in him. But what had he given her in return. Nothing. He did not have the decency to share his real past with her. He had no right on her, till she knew everything.

Tell her now, Arnav. Don't let go of her... Tell her now.

No.. No.. hold on. You've got to time it. She has only seen deceitful men around her. First her father, now Shyam. Is she even in the right frame of mind to receive whatever you have to say without being judgemental towards you?

He had to make sure that he would only get a Yes from her, when he proposed. Forget about a No, he would die if he felt even an ounce of hesitation or despise from her.

They both found themselves withdrawing from the embrace, and stood a feet or two apart. Arnav looked at her stealthily. She was visibly flustered. Pulling himself together, he said softly.

"Chalo...ghar chaltey hain."

"Ji."

Khushi followed him silently.

They drove towards home in silence, mostly immersed in their own thoughts. Every now and then, Arnav watched Khushi. She had rolled the window pane down. Preferring the twilight breeze to the car's AC. She placed her elbow on the open window and rested her head on it.

Arnav did not fail to notice that she had paled, since the time they had separated from the embrace. He knew she knew. She knew that she was special to him.

I will tell her... In a week or so. I will try and show her that Shyam can be truly dealt with and she can live without fear, as far as he is concerned.

Don't delay a lot Arnav. Don't you see she is already disappointed? How long are you going to make her live in uncertainity? She doesn't deserve to

. He was surprised to hear a combined voice of Arnav and ASR.

Ok... I get it...Just a few more days... May be this weekend? After Mamma and Papa's...

He zoomed his car. On one end he was happy that he was about to end this agony of uncertainity, but at the same time he feared if he would lose her forever. Either ways it was about time ...

***

As they entered the house, Arnav sat on the chair on the entrance to take off his shoes while Khushi slipped her sandals out and walked towards her room.

This silence was killing him. He had to make sure that all was not lost... that she wasn't too disappointed in him. "Khushi..." he called after her. "I will leave for office in couple of hours. Have some meetings scheduled early. Call the driver when you are ready to come to office."

"Get some sleep now. You haven't slept all night."

"Ji"

As they turned to go to their rooms, they heard a strong voice from the dimly lit hall.

"Wahi ruk jaayi ye Chotey. Is this a time to come back home... that too with a girl...?"

They both turned to look at the person. Khushi feared that the elders of the house are upset with them. But she was surprised when she saw the person standing in front of her. A boy, may be 3 or 4 years younger than her, grinning ear to ear, hair all messed up.

"Aakash...!!!"

Arnav walked towards him with a broad smile and open arms and took him in a brotherly hug.

"Bhai, how are you?"

The boy hugged him back tightly.

The brothers held each other for a moment longer than usual, oh... they had missed each other so much. Arnav ruffled his younger brother's hair out of affection.

"Tum nahi sudhrogey... You almost scared me. I thought it was Naani. Ready to take me to task again."

"Dheerey bhai. If Naani hears you, I don't know what she will be more upset about. That you think her voice sounds like a man. Or that you have returned at this time of the night."

Arnav chuckled. "It's not night anymore. It's almost time to wake up."

"For you Bhai... for you. For me, it's still mid night..."

Aakash stretched his back lazily.

Thinking of leaving the brothers alone, Khushi decided to go to her room, when Arnav stopped her.

"Khushi, wait... Meet Aakash, my brother."

"And Aakash, meet ..."

"Khushi... I know. Since yesterday evening all I have been hearing is only about her. Hello Khushi... very very pleased to meet you."

He hopped-skipped towards her and shook her hands.

"And now that we are no longer stangers, what should I call you... Khushi Di... or Choti Di... or..."

"NO!!"

Arnav shrieked...

Both Aakash and Khushi were taken aback with this sudden outburst.

"Khushi... just Khushi. Call her just Khushi..."

Am I missing something here?

Aakash's Poirot brain started to wonder.

While on the other hand, Khushi's heart began to rejoice again. Does it mean he intends to...? May be he needs time... May be I should stop jumping to conclusions... Don't get your hopes high Khushi... Another voice warned her.

She giggled within, which came out as a teeny-tiny smile adorning her lips. May be Buddu Singh Raizada needed some time...

Aakash looked from his Bhai's horrified face to Khushi's mischievous smile. Oh hell... this was no rocket science. But then ... Wait. A Minute. Bhai and Love? Is this love or is this just a fling? But Bhai is too good a guy to have flings... Has he confessed? Who in the family know about it? Hmmm? Inbhestigasun kare ka padi (as his mom would say)...

Arnav and Khushi went to their rooms while Aakash slumped on the sofa. He was miffed initially that he had to give up his bed for a guest. But if the guest was his Bhabhi-to-be, then he had no complaints at all. But is she his Bhabhi-to-be or not... That he would confirm over the next few days...

A/n:

How did you find it... Hopefully not as rushed as the previous chapter. I know it ended abruptly... but the next chapter is the continuation...

GUYS... .. THREAD IS COMING TO AN END. DONT WANT TO MISS OUT ON YOUR COMMENTS. SO PLEASE ... PLEASE... Please CLICK HERE TO COMMENT.

Would really like to know what you felt about the update. Or hit the LIKE BUTTON.

Again really sorry about the late updates... Its now partly because of AD and partly because Arnav and Khushi are in the penultimate stage of their merger. So, its kind of important to capture their thoughts and feelings correctly. Hope I have been able to do justice to penning down and letting you know how they are taking baby steps towards their union.

Waiting to know your thoughts.

Take care and lots of love

-Suri

oh u updated...thank u so much...made my day