#5 Arhi FF : Limerence [ Completed ] - Page 22

Limerence : Part 32

Khushi sat in one of the luxurious suites of Grand Hyatt, Delhi. The make-up artist and hairstylist were engrossed in working on her, while Payal Mittal was focused on the events of last night. "Can you believe it? It was Sheetal after all... and these boys hid everything from us so conveniently. I am amazed at their stomachs that can hide so many important details and stories. I wouldn't be able to last an hour, carrying that much news to myself. And I missed out on so much drama yesterday. I think everyone purposely leaves me out of all the juicy stuff. What do you think Khushi?" Payal's rant went on and on, making Khushi chuckle at her cuteness.

"I think you are right Payal. Everyone does keep you away from all the news. I think you should ask Akashji why he does that to you all the time," Khushi added fuel to fire but had clearly forgotten that Payal was the master of this game. "Oh really? Then why don't you refuse to get engaged to ASR, until he promises to never keep things from you and then you can tell me all the boy's secrets!" Payal said feigning innocence. Khushi gasped in shock and looked silently at Payal. "How can you say such a thing, Payal?" Khushi asked. "Exactly the way you told me to question Akash about it!" Payal teased with a raised eyebrow.

After a moment of complete silence of them looking at each other, both the girls burst out into fits of laughter, much to the stylist's annoyance. A few more minutes of easy teasing and mischief passed between the two girls. The stylists had done their job and as per Khushi's brief, she looked simple, yet absolutely stunning. The moment Payal and Khushi were alone in the suite, Payal pulled Khushi into a hug and said, "You look so beautiful Khushi. Even though I had designed the saree keeping you in mind, this saree has become you. I cannot imagine how impatient Arnav is going to be tonight, to spend some private moments with his dear dear fiance."

Khushi blushed at her words and also at the memory of Arnav's sensuous kisses. Forget Arnav, but she couldn't even admit it to herself with being embarrassed, how desperately addicted she was to them. It was as if they could not keep themselves from touching each other... in any way possible. The light brushes against her cheek, the entwining of hands, the sweet forehead kisses and those thoroughly amorous kisses... from a novice, slowly and steadily Khushi was turning into an expert in this matter. "Oye hoye! The makeup artist wasn't required here at all. Arnav's name is enough to turn you red, Khushi. Such a natural blush... sigh!" Payal kidded dramatically.

Khushi smacked Payal lightly and glared to silence the Dracula, who could never stop with her lighthearted chatter. How thankful was Khushi to have such a friend... such a sister in her life. At the mention of a bond that Khushi had always desired, her thoughts took a dark turn towards the woman she shared blood with. How low had she stooped! How disgusting a plan she had executed! Khushi hadn't been able to believe that it had been Sheetal, who had planned this entire media fiasco. However, fate had a different game planned all together for her. Sheetal had merely been the catalyst to push Arnav towards Khushi. It had only diminished the distance between them. She dreaded to think otherwise and also refused to accept Sheetal as her stepsister, even to herself.

"Hey, what happened?" Payal asked concernedly, seeing the clouded expression on Khushi's face. Khushi shook her head and literally launched herself in Payal's arms, taking her by surprise. "I love you Payal. You are the sister I have always wanted. Thank you for coming into my life and being my strength throughout," Khushi said with emotion and like one of the very rare times in Payal's life, her eyes brimmed with tears. "Pagal! You better not thank me ever! This was just meant to be. I understand soulmates and eternal love and prince charming's... have always waited for one all my life. But what I had never expected was to find a soul sister, who would become this important to me. So frankly, the pleasure is all mine Ms. Khushi Gupta. And you better not cry now. It will ruin your makeup," Payal joked, uncomfortable with being too emotional.

Khushi giggled and pulled away, knowing Payal's tactics very well. Their conversation was brought to an abrupt halt when a knock sounded on the door. Payal opened to gasp in shock seeing an unrecognizable Garima standing by the door. "Amma! Look at you. You look gorgeous. I see that Manorama amma has lived up to her promise," Khushi said with glee. Garima did look every bit gorgeous, in the classy saree and all that expensive jewellery which Manorama had forced her to wear. But her glow was for a different reason all together. Her beloved daughter was about to be engaged to the finest man she had ever known. He was going to claim her daughter publically... finally giving them the respect they had been devoid all their lives. It wasn't a mere dream... it was her deepest desire come true.

"Look at you, already siding with your mother-in-law. I didn't know you would be changing sides so soon Khushi," Garima teased, making Khushi pout cutely. "Aunty, you are looking absolutely stunning. With you and mom looking like this, what is the point of us getting dressed? No one is going to even spare a glance at us!" Payal said and added quickly, knowing well that the mother-daughter would love to have some time alone, "I will just go and check if the boys need some help. Will come back soon to get the two of you. I think it is already time for us to head towards the lawns."

As soon as Payal had left, Garima turned towards Khushi and cupped her face in her hands, "You look like a princess bitiya... so beautiful and so elegant. No wonder your prince, finally found you." Garima kissed Khushi's forehead as they both shared similar emotions. It was beyond what they had imagined, distinct to the life they had lived so far. And yet, they could not have felt more at home, amidst people who were mere strangers a few months ago. As the time sprinted by, Garima said, "Bitiya, you already know that there will be some people out there, who will be try to taint the beauty of your and Arnav's relationship. They will try to instigate you, to taunt you and mar your love. But ignore them like you always have Khushi. Always look at the brighter side and keep doing good. One day they will see you for what you are and not just the Raizada bahu. I am confident that day will come very soon."

Khushi hugged her mother and took her blessings. "I will amma, I promise. And please stop talking as if I am getting married. I am not leaving you so soon, so stop saying such things ok. By the way amma, do you think I look good enough for Arnavji?" she asked hesitantly. Garima smiled at her beloved daughter and said warmly, "You will get to know very soon bitiya. It will be only his eyes, that will reveal the truth. Any kind of reassurance from my end will only fade in comparison." Khushi's eyes lit up at her mother's confident words as she waited with anticipation for Payal to barge in, to whisk her away to her Arnavji. Wasn't it time already?

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The entrance to the gardens of Grand Hyatt was majestically decorated with chandeliers and golden drapes. The guests were warmly welcomed and were greeted with the spectacular sight of the illuminated garden. The seating was such, that the tables were pre-reserved as per names, so that there was no chaos or confusion on the day itself. There were ushers humbly leading the guests to their reserved tables and making sure of that they were served with an array of beverages and delicious snacks. Such was the beautiful engagement party of one of India's topmost fashion entrepreneurs... to one of his employee.

The gossip wine was abuzz with varied stories about the girl who had finally won over this handsome bachelors heart. There was excitement to see her as well as a lot of sour thoughts, against a woman they hadn't even seen yet. Arnav was the first one to walk into the venue, greeting people along the way. Manorama and Manohar Raizada, like wonderful hosts, immediately took the onus to make sure that everything was perfect and much to the guests liking. Akash was by his brother's side, helping him to ease off conversations with business associates. It was a spectacular sight and all everyone did was wait for a certain Khushi Gupta.

The entire ordeal to randomly converse with people was excruciatingly painful for Arnav. He was already so anxious, nervous and desperate to see Khushi that the time seemed to almost amble sluggishly. He looked at his watch for the millionth time when Akash teased, "She will be here soon Arnav. Relax! It is just your engagement not wedding... where you will fear of her to be a runaway bride." Arnav glared at him and said, "Well, I am sure this delay is because of your crazy wife. She must have come up with some new idea to make a grand late entry or something." Akash was about to make a smart comeback, when a hush fell over the entire gathering, their eyes turning to one direction... the road that was taken by the extremely stunning Khushi.

The world seized to exist, as Arnav traced her form greedily. Khushi walked gracefully, amidst the crowd, followed by an enthusiastic Payal and a very nervous Garima. Arnav could not seem to notice anything other than how beautiful Khushi looked. The stunning beige saree clung to her delicious curves, merging with the paleness of her skin. It was only the royal blue cashmere silk pallu, adorned with the glistening dull gold motifs, that stood out amidst the rest. It was the exact blue of his tuxedo and he appreciated Payal's effort to match the two of them. It wasn't a conventional bright design meant for a bride, but more of keeping to Khushi's tastes. The elegance, with which Khushi carried off the saree, was something everyone gathered, seemed to appreciate.

Arnav walked towards her in a trance, mentally urging her to look at him. And the next moment she raised her shy lashes, clashing her hazel orbs with his melting brown ones. She froze in her steps, entrapped by his scorching gaze. She looked at him wonderstruck, her eyes lingering on his face, taking in the man she loved with all her heart. Nothing had prepared her for what she felt in this moment, as he neared her and held out his hand for her to take. What followed were mere rituals for the rest. However, these two were lost in a world of their own. Their eyes sought each other ravenously ... each touch, each moment searing through their hearts, binding them together. It was overwhelming as well as the most beautiful moment in their lives.

The crowd cheered as the rings were exchanged, a million flashes seemed to be highlighting the darkening sky. However, more that the huge rock that had been put onto Khushi's hand, somehow the gathered crowd could not believe the sparkle in her eyes that was reserved only for Arnav. It wasn't a look of a greedy, opportunist gold digger. It was the look of a woman, utterly and completely besotted by her man... a man who seemed equally entranced by this beautiful woman.

NK smiled looking at the perfect couple in front of his eyes, happy to see his brother and Khushi so ecstatic. Despite the slight burn in his heart, he was happy for them. This is what happily ever after looked like and he somehow could not wait for his to arrive. His phone pinged with an incoming message, and he smiled looking at the name across his screen.

Lavanya : You ok?

NK : Doing okaish.

Lavanya : Do you need some tissues to wipe your tears?

NK : Is that why you skipped the party, so that no one could witness your spoilt makeup?

Lavanya : NK! Behave. And no... I skipped it because it would have been awkward. I didn't want to upset either of the two... atleast today.

NK : Good thinking.

Lavanya : I know. I am smart.

NK : And so modest...

Lavanya : When are we meeting next?

NK : At work on Tuesday.

Lavanya : Whatever!

NK : Ok ok fine! Want to meet at the club tomorrow night? Drinks on me!"

Lavanya : Now you are talking! :P Go enjoy your party.

Lavanya : And yes... please send me a pic of the two heartbreakers. ;)

NK : Sent. You crazy woman!

Lavanya : Always. You crazy man!

NK smiled as he put his phone back into his pocket. He had found an easy companion in Lavanya and was pleasantly surprised to realize that she was nothing like she was perceived. Behind the mask of a stubborn, elite, bitchy model, she was a humble girl... only trying to protect herself from this harsh world. Their daily chats had become a fresh breather into his life and she seemed to understand him and his situation better than anyone else. It was so easy to talk to her about anything and everything. He smiled at how he had stumbled upon this friend, unexpectedly. NK looked at the throng of people waiting to meet the couple of the night and shook his head, at the circus this entire event seemed like. Would he ever be able to get through such a day? Only time would tell.

The crowd had rushed to greet them, as Khushi simply smiled and nodded at the million introductions that happened within a span of a couple of hours. It was only the way Arnav held her hand, drew her closer while being snapped, or the way he held her possessively each time a stranger tried to engulf her into a hug, that pulled her through this uncomfortable yet novel experience. "I know this protocol has been exhausting and too overwhelming for you Khushi. But I guess, soon this elite society will get used to seeing you and you will get used to being indifferent to them," Arnav whispered into her ear, knowing well, her thoughts about what had transpired throughout the evening.

There were either some snide remarks or inquisitive queries regarding Khushi and Arnav had to really control himself, to not punch the faces of the people who had the guts to keep probing into their relationship. Nothing would really suffice this society's hunger for gossip and the best way to deal with them was ignorance. And that is exactly what Khushi had been muttering to herself, "I am fine Arnavji, I really don't care what all these people think of me. I am used to being judged. All that really matters is you and our family. See how happy everyone is. To see their smiles, I could take on this world, again and again."

Arnav raised Khushi's hand to his lips and kissed it tenderly saying, "That's like my beautiful brave girl, who I am going to soon steal away from everyone. I think my cheek muscles have just stiffened, with this constant smiling. Aren't you feeling hungry? I am sure you are... wait let me just..." Khushi interrupted him and replied distressingly, "Arnavji we just can't leave like that. This is our engagement party." He smirked at her and held her hand, already dragging her through the backside of the stage and replied, "Exactly! This is our engagement and we should be the ones celebrating!"

As they took a turn towards the private section, they heard a loud giggle followed by a cheerful question, "Running away from your own party, bhai?" Arnav froze in his tracks and turned around to see Anjali, dressed in a peach salwar suit. She looked much older than she did yesterday and yet the naughtiness shining in her eyes was like a ten-year-old. "What are you doing here?" he asked erratically. "Oh! I had come with mom and she waited till you guys were engaged. However, she rushed off immediately after. I did not want to miss out on this rocking party and the food looked so delicious... so I stayed back. Is that ok bhai?" she asked with a cute pout on her face.

Arnav knew then and there that he was a complete goner. There was no chance anyone could deny Anjali's pouting face and he simply nodded in reply. "Meet your Manu maasi before you go, ok? She will make arrangements for you to be dropped home. Don't leave alone," Arnav warned, worried about her safety. Anjali nodded obediently and rushed forward to hug both Arnav and Khushi together. It was a quick congratulatory hug as she immediately pulled away and winked at them saying, "Congrats to the two of you. Have fun!" And just like the way she had appeared out of nowhere, she sprinted away into the night.

Khushi could not help but say, "She is so cute... so innocent." Arnav hummed in response and continued on his way, trying to push away all the dark thoughts that seemed to have clouded his mind, momentarily. As they took another quick turn, Khushi gasped at the sight in front of her. At the extreme end of the gardens, hidden behind shrubberies and huge trees, stood a stunning gazebo, illuminated by a million fairy lights. Awestruck, she walked towards it, taking in the beauty of this place. As soon as they were inside, Arnav pulled her closer and whispered, "How did you like my surprise?"

Khushi looked at his dancing eyes and replied, "This is so beautiful Arnavji... just like the movies." He chuckled at her innocence and leaned closer whispering, "Yeah! Exactly like the movies... where the hero and heroine kiss to their hearts content." Khushi gasped and tried to pull away from his hold, only to be pulled back closer. "Arnavji... koi aa jayega! What will people think when they realize that we are missing. Everyone will be so worried," Khushi tried to find excuses.

Arnav kissed her cheek soundly and replied, "Relax. Akash, NK and Payal will manage everything. I have instructed them to handle things. Anyways, the guests by now are busy with drinks and food, so no one is going to miss us for a while. Why don't you forget about them and focus on your fiance, Ms. Khushi Gupta." Khushi blushed at hearing the word "fiance" from Arnav's mouth. It was in this moment that the reality actually seeped in. She was engaged to him... formally. Nobody could taint their relationship anymore... nobody would question her anymore. It was such a huge relief that forgetting her embarrassment, she lunged forward and hugged him tightly to herself.

Arnav's protective arms immediately slid around her, pulling her flush to himself. She felt so soft to his touch, his fingers skimming over her open back. It was the first time he was touching her so intimately, breathing in her floral scent. "Hmmm... I agree with amma today. You should definitely wear more sarees," he whispered close to her ear, tugging onto the lobe, sending delicious shivers through her body. Pulling away, he brushed aside a few lose tendrils from her exquisite face and cupped it. Leaning into her, looking right into her wide eyes, he silently waited for her to give into the magic that had engulfed them. And it was within a fraction of a moment that he sensed her approval, as she relaxed into his touch.

He swooped down to taste her, exactly the way he had been craving all evening. It had been so difficult to keep his hands off her. He could never understand this crazy kind of attraction he felt towards her. It made him feel like a hormonal teenager and somehow the fact made him smile. A boy who had lost his childhood long ago, seemed to have resurfaced now and all he needed, all he wanted, was to be always around the woman he loved... just breathing in her essence, just being able to touch happiness, in anyway he could.

"Mmm," Khushi moaned into the kiss, as his fingers skimmed across her waist, rising towards her breasts, stroking her through the fabric of her blouse. It was such a wanton reaction that she immediately pulled away from the kiss in shock. Breathing harshly, Arnav rested his forehead against hers, not letting her go too far. "Sorry," he breathed, knowing well how inexperienced and innocent she was. He knew that their chemistry was explosive and it mesmerized Khushi each time they crossed a small barrier. That was why she felt scared and out of her depths. It wasn't something she wanted to talk about and that was why, it was up to Arnav to take things slow between them.

"I love you Khushi," he whispered against her lips that immediately rewarded him with one of her dazzling smiles. "I love you too Arnvaji," saying that, Khushi buried her face into his warmth, feeling his erratic heartbeats synced with hers. She could no more fathom a life beyond him. It was as if there was always this desperate need to be with him and she was thankful that he loved her just as much. "Did I tell you how beautiful you look today, sweetheart?" Arnav asked, his chin resting on the top of her head.

She blushed at his endearment and shook her head in denial. "You don't?" he asked surprised and then pulled away. He gently held her face and tilted it, so she could look directly into his eyes and nowhere else. "Look into my eyes Khushi. What do you see? Do you see yourself?" he asked and she nodded in reply. "These eyes have been hollow for far too long, until you filled them with dreams, your love, your happiness... you filled them with hope for a beautiful future. You beguile me, my extremely gorgeous fiance. I cannot imagine my life without you. I love you so much!" he said with such emotion, that tears brimmed in Khushi's eyes.

"Hey, don't cry," he said, rushing to wipe her tears away. "How can you say such things?" she asked sniffing. He looked at her confused and wondered what he had said to hurt her. Then she gave him a small smile and said, "How can you say such beautiful things Arnavji? I didn't know you were so romantic. But you do the same to me. The depth of my feelings for you, scare me sometimes. Don't ever let me go, Arnavji..." Her broken words towards the end broke his heart. He sensed her fear and realized that the scars of her troublesome past still plagued her mind. He vowed to himself, to slowly and steadily, destroy all he fears and show her, just how cherished she was to him.

Kissing her lips gently, he said, "I am never going to let you go Khushi. You will always be close to my heart. Hamesha!" She smiled at that and at that same moment loud music seemed to boom into the silence of the sparkling night. "Looks like the party has just begun and we will need to head back soon. Till then will you do me the honor of a dance, my beautiful, sweet fiance?" Arnav asked teasingly. She nodded and put her hand in his waiting one, the warmth of his fingers spreading through her like a wildfire.

The stars glittered, the air sizzled, the night smiled gloriously at a couple, who had come so far in life. Their love was a symbol of the bright dawn after every dark night. Overcoming their past, altering their beliefs, they had won against the world and in turn, won each other. As Arnav twirled Khushi around and pulled her closer... the small twinkling gazebo made a fairytale-like picture. Hidden away form everyone, this seemed like their own little world... their chotisi duniya... a place where happiness resided. With two lovers absorbed in each other... it was limerence at its best.

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Epilogue 1