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22 years of Hungama
Originally posted by: anushkajain
hey take ur time but do try n atleast give us an incomplete part if possibe n if not than its ok dearđ
A Big Thank You đ¤ to all you guys for liking my last update so much.. i am really sorry i cant reply individually due to lack of time.. the same reason why the next update is incomplete.. i really cant complete it today.. will complete it tomorrow hopefully!
LETS CATCH UP...
Armaan and Riddhima could not believe what was going on around them at all.. Their heads had been wiped clean of any memory they had whatsoever.. It couldn't even be described as shock! It went beyond that.. They couldn't move a muscle.. All they could hear was lots of noise and cheering.. They were as lost as anyone could be, not knowing what exactly was happening and what exactly was to be done.. Armaan felt thumps and slaps on his back but didn't know who was it that was doing it.. He was just looking into those green orbs that were his life and light.. Riddhima felt someone, Anjali probably, put a hand around her shoulder and hug her sideways, but her gaze was just stuck in those blue eyes that were a ocean of all the love there was in this world for her.. Padma smiled as she saw the both of them lost in each other, not understanding what in the world was happening around them.. This was exactly the reaction she had pictured when she had thought of doing this.. If the kids and her, surprisingly immature, husband wanted to play that practical joke on Armaan and Riddhima, she was the one who had come up with this engagement idea.. Shashank had realized his mistake when he had overheard some of Armaan and Riddhima's conversation and it had finally penetrated his thick skull that they should be together.. He also confessed that Armaan wasn't that bad as he made him out to be.. She had been touched when he was ready to do anything to get forgiveness from his princess.. He had told her that she was most important and if she thought Armaan was the right guy for her then it had to be him.. She felt really sorry to see him in tears, but then he had cried quite a few time in the last few days thinking that she wasn't watching him.. But this time she lent him her shoulder and convinced him that everything wasn't lost.. Things could still be mended.. He was still confused about how to go about things when her elder daughter had come to their rescue.. When she learnt of how her father had learnt his lesson and was ready to accept Armaan as a part of the family, she quickly called over the entire gang.. They were all excited to hear of this development and were more than eager to get their friends together.. Anyone could do anything for Armaan.. They all loved him.. So they had come up with this cruel plan to trouble him some more.. Shock him so much, that he forgets his name.. And surprisingly Shashank was an active participant in the formulation of this plan.. She couldn't believe these people were being so juvenile.. Though she had been against it initially, she complied with the plan only on the condition that they use the diwali party to get them engaged.. She did not want to waste a second in inviting all that happiness back into her home.. She thought that the two of them had suffered enough and didn't want to wait even a day to get them together, in case something new comes up and wrong decisions are made again.. She wanted to make it official without wasting any time whatsoever.. Shashank and Anjali had been against this plan, not coz they didn't want this to happen, but thought it would be better if they had a grander ceremony at a later date with both their consents.. But Padma had been adamant and Shashank had no choice but to agree before she stops talking to him again.. So it was decided that Nikki, Muskaan and Anjali would help her out with the engagement preparations as they were running short of time, while the boys hatched their plan.. The girls had protested as they didn't want to miss all the fun, but then gave in only for Armaan and Riddhima's sakes.. So Muskaan and Nikki had gone shopping to get them engagement worthy clothes and Luckily Padma had already started collecting jewelry for Riddhima's wedding since Armaan had proposed to her a few months back.. So she had their rings ready too, for the official ring ceremony.. With a little bit of extra decoration they were ready for the big surprise.. And they had done this right under Riddhima's nose.. The only problem had arisen when Riddhima had gone to the airport after Armaan.. They thought she might stop Armaan from going and thus spoil their plan.. That's why Anjali had to go behind her to keep them updated on the status.. Luckily Armaan kept his word and got his reward in good time too.. She really wished she would have been there when Shashank must have told him that he was the one for Riddhima.. She could almost imagine his expressions.. Now she wished only for their happiness.. They had suffered enough.. And finally her family was complete.. Now only the formalities were left to be fulfilled..
"Riddhima.. Armaan. Beta.. Kucch toh bolo..", she ran a loving hand on Riddhima's head to get them out of their daze..
Armaan turned to his Padma aunty with the same dazed expression as he heard her voice.. Then turned back to Riddhima..
"Beta.. I hope this ring fits.. We can alter it if it doesn't..", he heard her say as she nudged Riddhima to put it in his ring finger.. He stared at Riddhima, entranced by her and what she was about to do.. If he had ever dreamt about this moment, this was way way better than the dream.. He watched, as if in slow motion, as she picked the ring from the thali that Padma aunty was holding and waited for him to put him hand forward.. But his brain wasn't processing the signals and his hand was frozen where it was.. This was so freakin unbelievable.. She was actually officially going to be his.. He could see that she too was feeling the same as he was.. Like this was all a dream and they would wake up suddenly.. Fortunately for him, this wasn't a dream.. As someone nudged his left hand forward, he forwarded it without realizing he was doing that.. "Oh.. God.. Armaan!! Hurry up..", came Nikki's voice from somewhere as she held his hand straight forward.. But he couldn't get his eyes off Riddhima.. He saw her look down and slowly place the ring in his ring finger.. Amidst all the claps and the hoots he could think of only one thing.. What in the world had he done to deserve this!.. When he had left the Gupta residence in the afternoon he had almost given up hope.. Both the father and daughter were more stubborn than he thought they were.. And he knew he was the reason for the entire mess.. Riddhima he wasn't expecting to crack, but he really wanted to get his point across to Dr. Shashank.. But after what happened, he just went back to Rahul's place and waited.. Waited till he had to leave and go back to do his time.. Hoping that by some miracle, she would call, or Dr. Shashank would call and tell him that they would give him a chance.. It would make it a lot more easier for him to leave then at least.. But nothing of that sort happened.. He realized he had to fight this battle alone now.. Face the consequence of leaving his Basket alone.. Even Rahul had refused to drop him to the airport saying he had to go for the diwali party at the Guptas.. So he had taken a cab to the airport with a heavy heart.. But he couldn't bring himself to walk through the departure gates.. He kept hoping against hope, wishing that something would happen if he waits there.. And his miracle happened when he heard Riddhima's voice in the crowd calling out his name.. And what happened after that was a blur.. She accepted him back in her life.. Dr. Shashank accepted him as family.. He couldn't believe it that it was still the same day that he had walked out of here disappointed, with just one wish, that he gets a chance.. But god had given him more than a chance.. This was too much for him to handle.. His eyes stung a little as he suddenly felt empty.. That pain that had filled him in all these days was suddenly sucked out and the happiness had not filled in yet, creating a vacuum of sorts.. In his state of limbo he did not realize when Riddhima had slid that ring in his finger, making him hers forever.. "Armaan.. Stop dreaming..", Rahul smacked him on his head, making everyone laugh, as they waited for him to put the ring in Riddhima's finger.. He suddenly became aware of the present as he felt that hard tap and his brain jumped into action.. Slowly the realization that this was actually happening, that they were really getting engaged, started seeping in.. Filling him with so much happiness and excitement that he could not bear it.. He looked at the ring that lay on the thali and took it in his hand.. Then remembering something, he kept it back.. He rummaged in his pocket and took out the solitaire that was a mark of their love.. He carried it around with him to remind him of her.. Now it was finally going to be returned to its rightful owner.. "Padma aunty.. Do you mind if I use this ring.."
"Of course not beta.. Tumhari ring zyaada khubsoorat hai..", she said as she caressed his head lovingly.. He looked at Riddhima waiting for her to put her hand forward.. But she seemed in a daze, just like him.. So he took her hand and slipped the ring for a second time in her ring finger, officially claiming her as his.. As everyone clapped around them, he took her hand and placed a soft kiss on it near the ring, a tear that had trickled out of his eye falling on her hand..
Riddhima was still in a daze as she felt his lips on her hand and that ring back on her finger.. She couldn't believe what all had just happened.. In the morning she had been determined not to fall for him again.. Like she had ever let him go!.. In the afternoon she had sworn to not go after him and stop him.. He deserved to be alone, she had concluded.. But his love had taken her back to him.. Back to her home, where she had always belonged.. Where she will always belong.. But she still couldn't bring herself to believe that her papa was standing behind Armaan and smiling, his happiness clearly reflecting on his face.. She couldn't believe people were clapping for her and him as they officially were declared as one.. She couldn't believe Armaan was here, with her entire family and friends, and not in Singapore as she had imagined him to be by now.. She couldn't believe any of this.. It was just not sinking in.. When she placed the ring on his finger, her heart had skipped a beat.. And when she saw him place that solitaire on hers, it finally started to seep in.. And that realization filled her with so many emotions all of a sudden that she felt weak.. Her head spun as her brain started processing the meaning of all this and she was overwhelmed with so many emotions.. She didn't realize when her tears gave away, and as everyone looked on them happily wishing them a happy life ahead, she lost it completely.. She couldn't take it anymore.. On the verge of a breakdown, she ran out of the crowd and up to her room leaving all of them in surprise..
Armaan saw her run away and wondered what went wrong.. He had just started to accept that all this was actually happening and before he could believe it completely she had run out of the crowd.. Was she not happy with this.. Maybe she wasn't ready.. "I'll go check on her..", he told Padma aunty as he started to go behind her..
Dr. Shashank, who was also confused as to why his princess was crying now, also had started behind her.. But he stopped as he saw a worried Armaan follow her.. Maybe he was what she needed at the moment.. Sighing, he smiled through the tears that were forming in his eyes.. Controlling his emotions he beckoned the guests to proceed for dinner and break the silence that had taken over by Riddhima's sudden exit..
He knocked on her door for the second time today and had a sense of deja vu as she didn't open the door and when he entered she was lying on her bed with her face in her pillow.. But this time he was much more apprehensive.. Afraid of losing the happiness that had just made its way towards them.. He sat at the edge of the bed next to her as he called out her name softly, trying not to give away his emotions, "Riddhima.."
But she didn't look at him and continued to cry.. His face fell, his heart twisted.. He didn't want to feel that pain again.. He didn't want to see her in pain again.. He didn't know what to do.. So he held her shoulder and turned her towards him.. And this time she didn't resist.. She just moved her face from the pillow and hid it in his chest.. Holding him tight as she cried on.. And in his arms she found the relief she was looking for as he caressed her back to ease her crying..
"Riddhima.. Kya hua?.. Please talk to me..", he asked trying to part a little to look at her face.. But she resisted his attempts and continued to cry, though her sobs had now eased down as she heard his voice.. But he was as confused as ever, a hundred different thoughts flooding his mind as to why she was crying..
"Riddhima.. Please bolo.. You know I cant see you like this..", he asked her again, forcing her apart this time..
She looked into his confused eyes, asking her a hundred questions, and held his face in her hands, caressing it, trying to tell him.. But she was so overwhelmed and stuck in a mire of emotions that the words weren't leaving her lips.. "I.. Don't.. Know.. So.. Fast.. Just..", she couldn't form coherent sentences as she tried to speak.. So she just leaned her head on his shoulder and cried on.. Armaan was relieved that at least she wasn't pushing him away.. Her actions told him she wanted him here, as did her eyes.. He tried putting her words together and was a little confused.. Then he realized that maybe everything is moving too fast for her.. She had just forgiven him a few hours ago and now suddenly she was engaged to him.. She wasn't ready for this yet.. And he wasn't going to force her into anything.. He would have to win her over.. Erase all that pain.. And time was the only panacea.. "Riddhima.. Look at me.. Please..", he took her face in his hands and looking into her eyes, "Riddhima.. I know all this is so unbelievable.. And I know its all happening so fast.. Mujhe pata hai after what I did, its not going to be easy.. I mean, I know I cant expect you to start trusting me right away.. We need time.. I need time to win your trust and you need time to start trusting me again.. A hundred sorrys are not going to change what I did Riddhima. And we'll take our time.. Hum Dr. Shashank ko jaakar keh denge that we are not ready for this yet.. Theek hai.." he told her fast, trying to mask his emotions from showing in his voice.. As soon as he finished he looked into her eyes for a moment and then looked away.. As he got up from the bed, Riddhima who had been just staring at him trying to keep up with his words, realized what he had said and came back to her senses, "Armaan..", she called out as she stood up, her tears all vanished now, while he just looked out of the window trying to pacify his heart that all will be well, as he waited to escort her back to her papa to refute his decision.. When Armaan didn't look at her she frowned and stood in front of him, "You are so dumb Armaan. I should've realized in the beginning.. Of all the people in this world I had to fall for an airhead like you.. You are the limit of stupidity.. I don't even believe I fell for you.. Is there any procedure to go back in time and cancel all that.."
Armaan, who was surprised at the tone she took, scowled as he heard her insults.. "Hold on.. Tum itna gussa kyun ho rahi ho.."
She raised her eyebrows in frustration as she continued.. "Toh kya karun Armaan.. Tum kitne paagal ho pata hai.. How can you say I don't trust you.. Are you stupid.. Oh wait a minute.. I forgot.. You are stupid!..", but Armaan had had enough.. What the hell was her problem.. "Riddhima.. Enough.. I was just..", but she cut him.. "Don't even try to explain Armaan.. Don't you get it.. I love you.. And I trust you more than my life.. Tum kaise keh sakte ho that I don't trust you..", she softened in the end as he looked at her, confused again.. She looked at his cute expression of defeated confusion and held his face as she moved closer to him.. "Armaan.. I trust you.. Don't ever say that again.. Agar maine kisse pe aankh band karke bharosa kiya hai toh who tum ho.. I trust you more than anyone else in this world..", she tried to explain to him as he just stared back, his heart filling with new hope.. But he couldn't help but ask, "Why do you trust me so much Riddhima?..", and she could say nothing but just look back at him.. When she didn't answer he asked her again, "How can you trust me after what I did.. I am not worth it..", and he lowered his eyes, ashamed as he remembered what he had done..
"Armaan.. What if I was in your place?.. What if I would have asked you to get out of my life coz papa didn't approve of you.. Would you have stopped trusting me.. Would you have asked me for time..", she asked him, forcing him to look into her eyes.. And her eyes said it all.. Those questions of her didn't need to be answered.. They had answered all his questions.. He knew as did she that he would not have wasted a second before taking her back if she wanted him.. Her love was the one and only thing he ever craved for..
"So.. Why were you crying?.. Itna ro rahi thi.. What was I supposed to think..", he asked her cutely, trying to get away from the topic..
That took her back to why she was crying and she leaned in on his chest as she said.. "Coz I was happy.. Confused.. Overwhelmed.." she started.. "Itna?!!.. Who cries so much when they are happy..", he asked her in exaggerated shock as he parted to look at her..
"Who was crying on my shoulder when papa said you're the best.." she asked with raised eyebrows and a teasing grin..
He pulled her back into him as he said cheekily.. "That toh I was crying because he said mujhe tum dono ko jhelna padega.. I am so screwed now.."
"Armaan!!", she hit him on his shoulder..
"Basket.. You scared me and a hundred other people in the party.. They all think you've been forced into this or something.." he joked as he kept her in his embrace caressing her back slowly..
But she didn't find it too funny as she pulled out a little and looked up at him.. "Armaan shut up! You don't know what I was feeling.. I mean.. Sab kucch itne jaldi ho gaya.. I still cant believe it that you are here and not in Singapore.. You wont understand.." she went on with a frown..
Armaan smiled at that.. "Of course.. I wont understand..", he sighed, his tone almost bordering on sarcasm..
She ignored that however as she put her arms around his back and looked into his eyes, coming closer.. "Armaan!.. Ab kucch galat nahi hoga na.. Please.. Even if anything else comes in our way, just promise me that you wont leave me alone.. Even if you think it is whats best for me.. Coz it cant be the best for me if I have to stay away from you.." Armaan looked into her pleading eyes, a glimpse of that pain reflected in them, as it pierced his heart.. All he could say was "Promise.."
She smiled at that and said again.. "And Promise that you wont go back on this promise.."
"Promise.." he said as that smile reappeared on his face..
"I love you.." she said, not being able to look away from his eyes..
He leaned his forehead in on hers.. "I love you too.." almost whispering his reply.. Her hand crept up his nape, into his hair as she pulled his face closer, closing her eyes in anticipation.. He felt her fingers take hold of his hair and he pulled her closer by the waist, tightening his hold around her.. Looking at her soft pink lips once, he closed his eyes as he leaned in, his hands caressing her waist, sending shivers down her spine.. This almost felt like their first kiss.. Maybe even better.. It felt like forever since they had done this.. They didnt even remember when they had last kissed.. Coz they had been caught in the act the last time around.. But all that was over now.. this was a new beginning and they were as nervous as excited to experience it all again.. She felt his hand creep up her back begging her to give in to him.. He felt her pull him closer again with her hand that was in his hair, her other hand, caressing his nape, telling him to go on.. Their eager lips were a few millimeters from each other, their breaths mingling into each others' "I am sorry..", they jumped apart as that voice that had haunted them, after that night a few weeks back, came right from across the room.. They saw Dr. Shashank going red with embarrassment as he looked everywhere but at the two of them.. He didn't know what to say..
Armaan on the other hand was scared like hell.. "Woh.. Sir.. Actually.. Aankh mein kucch.. Chala gaya tha.. So I was just..", he stuttered as he tried to make up some bull crap, his heart racing like crazy.. he was already red with embarrassment and now talking crap!!
"I am sorry.. Main baad mein aata hoon..", Shashank looked at them sheepishly.. Riddhima was deep crimson and very interested in the floor all of a sudden..
"Nahi sir.. Please.. Main ja hi raha tha.. Uh.. Riddhima needs to talk to you..", she looked at him in surprise as she heard that.. Armaan looked at her meaningfully, conveying through his eyes that it was time to mend things with her papa now.. She blinked once in agreement, thanking him for giving her this opportunity.. Armaan smiled at her, then at Dr. Shashank, who returned his smile for once, and quickly left the father-daughter pair to catch up with each other..
Riddhima and Dr. Shashank watched Armaan make his way out of the room, still blushing about the incident that had just occurred.. Riddhima was utterly embarrassed, not only because her dad caught her almost kissing Armaan, but because he caught her in the act a second time now.. Talk about not learning from mistakes.. The last time around was a horrible experience.. She hoped today at least things wont be that heated as they were a month back..
"Uh.. So..", she heard her dad's voice as he came up to her, waiting for her to say something.. She figured he too was feeling awkward.. Obviously he didn't believe Armaan's blatantly stupid lie.. Even a blind man would be able to tell what they were up to.. And that smart head had left her alone to deal with the embarrassment of it all.. Though she had assured him silently that she would patch things up with her papa, it was not really that easy.. Given that she had not spoken to him in weeks now, she had probably lost practice.. And she was really really rude to him in all these days.. He certainly didn't deserve that kind of a treatment from his own daughter.. But what could she do.. She had held him partially responsible for sending Armaan away.. In fact his cruel words were what had hurt Armaan and compelled him to take that harsh decision anyway.. But she should have realized that by not talking to him she worsened the matter by feeding his alter ego.. He obviously was hurt by the fact that all of a sudden Armaan was more important to her than him, especially when he didn't have a clue about their relationship.. Maybe if she would have kept trying he would have given into her a long time back.. But she had just ignored him like she didn't care.. And now she was embarrassed and ashamed of her behavior.. What was she going to say to him.. This thought had been creeping up from the back of her mind all the way home from the airport after her he had finally accepted Armaan and her relationship.. That was too much of a surprise for her.. Her di had told her on their way back of the entire plan and she was shocked that her papa had been at the core of all the planning.. She still couldn't believe it.. And she couldn't thank him enough.. Coz what she felt when Armaan hugged her back in that room could not be expressed in words.. No other way could have been the right way for them.. That acceptance had made him so happy, she could see it in his eyes.. She knew how much he craved for a family and her dad didn't know what he had given him by calling him a part of the family.. But she knew, and she was grateful..
When she didn't say anything for a long time, Shashank realized that she was feeling as ashamed and awkward as he was for behaving the way they had behaved in the last few days.. "Riddhima.. Beta.. I am sorry.. Will you please forgive your papa beta..", he finally apologized breaking the silence..
Riddhima looked up at him in surprise as she heard that and she felt even more guilty than she already was, "Nahi papa.. I am sorry.. Maine aapke saath bohot rudely behave kiya.. I am really sorry.. Main bohot buri hoon na.. I broke your trust.. And then I blamed you for it all.. I am so sorry.. I ..", and her voice broke at the end of that, tears rolling down her face again..
He saw her cry and immediately went forward and hugged her.. Something he had longed to do in all these days that he had silently observed her cry.. "Hey.. Hey.. Hey.. Riddhima.. Please don't cry.. You know I cant see my princess in tears right?.. Riddhima.. Beta, I am sorry.. I deserved every bit of that behavior from you.."
"No papa.. Nobody deserves to be treated like that.. But I was so angry.. ", she said as she looked at him all teary eyed..
He made her sit on the bed and sat next to her, "I know.. Maine kaam hi aisa kiya tha.. "
"Nai papa.. Galti humari thi.. Humne aapko pehle bataana chahiye tha..", she kept defying his apologies..
"Par tum dono ussi din mujhe bataane waale the.. Right?.. But sab kucch galat ho gaya.. You know when Padma told me that, I didn't react to it at all.. I was so angry.. Maine kabhi nahi socha tha that tum Armaan jaise ladke ko pasand karogi.. You know, I never liked him.. In fact my dislike bordered on hatred.. You know when I first set my eyes on him in Kasauli medical college, he had almost trashed his superbike into my car and run away without even apologizing.. ", he recounted that incident that happened years back to his daughter..
Riddhima stopped crying as she was pleasantly intrigued by her dad's story.. This was the first time she was hearing about a past that her dad shared with Armaan and she wasn't a part of it.. She looked at him with a surprise on her face as he continued, "Yeah.. That's right.. He was a naughty kid.. Tattoos and street fights and all.. I had heard all sorts of stories about him.. And I didn't like him one bit.. Even in class he would back answer me and glare back at me shamelessly when I glared at him.. I couldn't help but hate him.. That is why I behaved the way I did when he came to Sanjeevni.. I didn't want him anywhere around me.. And he was the last person I wanted around my princess.."
"Papa.. But Armaan's not like that.. He's a little crazy sometimes but his heart is in its right place.. He's very nice.." she defended her Armaan immediately.. She was sure there must be some explanation to that kind of a behavior from Armaan.. She vaguely remembered him saying something about this incident but she had not paid much attention.. She was probably lost in his cute frowns and scowls as he complained about her fathers' unfairness towards him..
"Hmm.. I know.. I realized he was not that bad when I heard about him visiting the orphanage from your bua.. Then I was impressed by his hard work and all.. He is indeed a brilliant doctor I must say.. But what was I supposed to think after reading that letter Riddhima.. Do you know how angry I was.. And more than anything, I was angry that you were lying to me.. I couldn't believe it that my Riddhima was lying to me.."
"I am sorry papa..", she looked down, her guilt taking over her..
"No I am sorry Riddhima.. The fact that you needed to lie to me just shows that I wasn't really good at my job.. I completely ignored the fact that my little Riddhima is not little anymore.. She can take her own decisions and lead her own life.. I didn't realize that I have become old now Riddhima.. But I certainly have.. I completely forgot what it feels like to be in love.. I think I should stop coloring my hair.. Least the grays will remind me of my age..", he joked..
Riddhima who was going to challenge her father's claim, let out a chuckle at his joke through her tears.. "Papa.. Aap bhi na.. I think the salt and pepper look will look sexy on you.. But aap mamma ko kya kahenge.. She'll eat you alive.."
He let out a laugh as he heard his daughter.. Yeah.. They were back!.. "So.. Will you forgive me.."
"Papa if you say that once again, I'll eat you alive.. You cant say things like that about my papa.. My papa is the best papa in the world and nothing is going to change that.."
"I don't know what I've done to deserve you beta.. Thank you.. I love you.. And I am proud of your choice too..", he smiled proudly at her..
She couldn't believe her ears.. All she could say was.."Papa.."
"Haan Riddhima.. All this while I kept cursing Armaan that he broke my family.. He took them away from me.. The truth is that it was me who destroyed my family.. I pushed everyone away.. I was the one who didnt see the whole picture.. My ego always interfered when he spoke to me so directly Riddhima.. Coz he was always so confident of himself.. Even when he believed he was the one who was wrong and even when he believed that he was right.. But when I heard him talk to you in the afternoon, mujhe ehsaas hua, ki who meri family ki khushi ke liye itna kar sakta hai, aur main apni beti ki khushi ke liye usse apna bhi nahi sakta! I was ashamed of myself Riddhima.. I am sure he loves you, if he could go that extent to keep your family together.. He did not once think of running away with you.. Or give up hope.. And when I asked him to forgive me, usne ek baar socha bhi nahi.. I wouldn't have been able to forgive someone who had insulted me so much, in a matter of a second.."
Riddhima just stood there as she heard her dad talk about her Armaan.. She had never been this proud of him.. Of herself.. That she chose him for herself.. Without any help.. He was hers.. Rightfully earned by her.. And somewhere she had a hand in making him what he was..
And without realizing she was saying it, she spoke with a proud smile on her face.. "He's crazy papa.. He always thinks he's the one at fault.. And you know why he didn't take a minute to forget all that happened.. Its because he respects you.. So much that he chose you over me.. I think he loves you more than I do.. At least mamma tells me that Armaan loves her more than I do.."
"I know.. I wish I could have seen it before.. Its just that I love you more.. I just missed his point every time.. If I would not have lost my head and listened to Padma that day.. Only if I wouldn't have said those words.. I didn't mean to hurt him Riddhima.. Agar mujhe pata hota ki who wahan hai toh main kabhi uske saamne aisi baat nahi karta.. I didn't want to hurt him.. But I was hurt Riddhima.. I couldn't look beyond that.. I am sorry that I hurt him so much.. I am sorry for all the tears I gave you by hurting him beta.. " he started apologizing again.. But Riddhima couldn't see him in that state again.. Everything was fine now.. And all of them had lost their heads.. You couldn't really blame it on one person.. It was a bad mix of horrible luck, unfortunate timing and bad tempers.. "Papa aap gussa the.. The way you found out about us was wrong.. It wasn't meant to happen like that.. I know maine aapka bharosa toda and I am sorry.. Aapka gussa bilkul theek tha.. Gusse mein log kucch bhi kehte hain.. What happened wasn't completely your fault.. Meri bhi galti thi.. I shouldn't have run away like that.. Armaan shouldn't have left me alone here.. But its all over now.."
But all that guilt that had been masked by his ego was coming out today.. "But Riddhima, if I wouldn't have overreacted, you wouldn't have run away and Armaan wouldn't have felt so guilty.. Its all my fault.."
Riddhima frowned at him as she heard that.. "That's not true.. Aap phir shuru ho gaye.. Do you want me to stop talking to you again.."
He saw her perfect scowl and couldn't stop himself from smiling.. "Of course not.. I just want you to be happy and always keep smiling.. " he patted her cheek as her frown turned into a smile.. His smile widened at that as he seriously asked her, "Beta tum khush toh ho na.. I mean.. Tum party se iss tarah."
And she started her explanation again.. "Woh kucch nahi papa.. I was just overwhelmed.. Sab kucch itne jaldi ho gaya.. Waise di told me about your prank papa.. I cant believe it.. Aap aur iss tarah.. I thought only mamma had that naughty streak in her.. " she teased him..
He chuckled at that.. "Yeah.. Ussi se seekha hai.. "
But Riddhima was still curious, unable to believe that her dad was actually a prankster too.. Talk about getting old.. They all start acting like kids.. "Toh aapko yeh idea aaya kahan se.. I mean its not easy fooling Armaan you know.. His face was worth a watch.." he grinned as he saw her giggle.. "Yeah.. That it was.. Only you were busy crying.."
"Papa.." she whined as he teased her..
"So do you really love me more.." he asked her cheekily..
"I always will.. ", she smiled at him.. And he smiled back looking into her eyes, which clearly told them she was lying.. He knew, that one fact had changed permanently.. She would always love a certain Dr. Mallik more than him, more than anyone else in this world..
"Toh neeche chale.. I think everyone must be waiting..", he suggested, getting up from her bed..
As they started walking towards the exit and down the stairs, his arm around her shoulder, he asked her under his breath, "You can uncross your fingers now Riddhima.." she looked at him in surprise, grinning at her, as she looked down, embarrassed at being caught.. And without saying a word she made her way down, back to her Armaan.. Back to her life.. Everything was perfect in her life now.. He made it perfect.. Just like he had promised..
Armaan had come down from Riddhima's room all flushed.. He had been caught by his sasurji in the same spot that had caused all this ruckus.. He was more scared than embarrassed.. But then when he saw him embarrassed about it too, he guessed this time he wasn't red because he was angry, but because he was blushing.. Shanky was capable of that!! "Dude.. Give him some respect.. Ab toh officialy sasurji hai.. ", he muttered to under his breath, as he reprimanded himself at that thought occurred.. He just hoped that Riddhima sorts things out with her father now.. Then everything would be perfect and back to normal.. Actually, nothing could be normal now.. They were engaged.. Like officially.. Wow!! Every time he thought about that, a new feeling erupted in him.. And the thought of everyone, each and everyone knowing about them now, would obviously change a lot of things.. And he was right in thinking that as he heard Nikki's voice.. "Ooh.. Romeo's blushing.. Kya kar rahe the haan..", she teased as she asked aloud.. He didn't realize when he had started blushing at his thoughts and had completely lost track of where he was and what he was doing.. Now all of a sudden he realized that all his friends were gathered in the living room, seated comfortably on the couches and some on the floor as they enjoyed dinner.. He also noticed that most of the guests had left by now and Padma aunty was seeing off the last one's remaining..
"Nikki tujhe aur koi kaam nahi hai kya.. I mean you just got married yesterday.. What the hell are you doing here.. Poor Abhi..", he teased back in response as he sat on the small couch next to Anjali.. Abhi who was sitting opposite him turned red while Nikki just hit Armaan on his leg as she was sitting on the floor with her back against the couch, now frowning, making Armaan smirk in delight..
But Rahul had nothing to get teased about.. He was going to kill two birds with one stone.. "Haan yaar Armaan.. Tu sahi keh raha hai.. Tu toh apna kaam kar aayaa.. Ab Abhi ko bhi karne dena chahiye.. ", he teased him, to see Armaan's smirk change so fast into a scowl and all of them howled with laughter at his condition.. Abhi was the only one who didn't find that funny.. It was his wedding night dammit!!
"Oh.. Toh abhi I understood why Ridzi ran away like that.. Kyun Armaan.. You should have just told us you needed your privacy.. ", Muskaan joined her husband in teasing him.. She never failed any opportunity to tease Armaan.. He had given her hell in that department..
"Muskaan.. Tu chup baith samji na.. I'll get back at you.. You just wait and watch..", he threatened her..
"Kya ho raha hai yahan pe..", Padma asked, as she saw all of them laughing and guffawing away..
"Kucch nahi mom.. Hum Armaan se keh rahe the, ki ab toh sab official hai.. Ab usse Ridzi se milne ke liye bahane maarna band kar dena chahiye.. Pakda jaayega.. ", Anjali teased as she answered her mom's questions..
"Padma aunty please tell them to stop irritating me.. And for your kind information.. Riddhima is talking to Dr. Shashank right now.. Jaakar dekh lo..", he frowned and pouted and looked all flustered.. He wasn't used to being the butt of all jokes.. He was never at the receiving end and even if he did manage to get himself embarrassed, he always got out of it with his witty remarks.. Until today, when everyone was taking their opportunity to make fun of him and avenge all those time that he must have ever teased them..
"Accha.. Padma aunty ke chamche.. Don't act all innocent.. Don't tell me you weren't up to anything before your sasurji interrupted..", Nikki couldn't stop herself from teasing him.. Though she knew Riddhima had been crying and wasn't too sure of what must have happened, it was fun to see Armaan's expressions..
His ears went red, half in embarrassment and half in anger, "What!.. No!!.. And how do you know anyway.."
Padma finally intervened as she spoke, "Armaan.. Tum inki baaton par dhyaan mat do.. Main tumhare liye khana laati hoon.. Bhook lagi hogi mere bacche ko.. And stop troubling him.. " she mock glared at all of them, as she ran a loving hand on his head, standing beside the couch..
But Armaan obviously wasn't going to accept that offer without his Basket.. "Uh.. Nahi Padma aunty.. Abhi bhook nahi hai.. Main baad mein kha lunga.." he said cautiously, hoping no one would see through his bahana..
Muskaan grinned as she heard that, leaving no opportunity to get back at him as she said.. "Seedhe seedhe bolna teri Basket ke saath khayega.." making everyone laugh again as he turned red.. Glaring at her angrily he retorted.. "Muskaan! .. Forget it!.. I am not saying another word.."
"Kyun.. You want a lawyer..", Rahul didn't miss his chance as everyone around errupted in roars at that.. Atul almost choked on his food.. They had been discussing the prank before he had come and now Rahul found the perfect opportunity to start teasing him about it again..
And Armaan's scowl and temper just increased with that remark.. How was he falling for them again and again.. "Ha ha.. So funny.. Kameeno..", he started cursing, but was interrupted by Padma aunty, "Armaan!", she raised her voice, glaring him down..
He smiled at her sheepishly and apologized.. "Sorry.. But seriously.. Yeh plan tha kiska.. Bohot hi ghatiya joke tha..", he turned back to his friends making a disgusted expression..
"Of course mera plan tha.." Anjali proudly took responsibility..
"Please.. Don't lie Anjie.. Mera plan tha.. I came up with the whole 'you cant leave this country idea..'", Rahul claimed, defying her..
"Please.. I had the idea of a prank.. That's why I called you guys here..", she retorted..
"But we formulated the plan..", Atul challenged her..
"Please.. We suggested the whole, police thing.." , Nikki got into the whole It-was-my-idea game..
"Yeah.. You wanted to wear the costume and arrest him.. Really Nikki.. I suggested Ranbir to play the part.. That was most important.." Abhi joined in too as he proudly claimed his right..
Armaan who was getting irritated at the way they were proudly showing off now, decided to digress the topic.. "I agree.. So where is he.." he asked Abhi about Ranbir..
"Oh he just left a while back.. He was too tired I guess.." Abhi answered him..
But Anjali didn't give up just yet.. "Don't change the topic Abhi.. It was my plan.." she said again..
"It was my plan..", Rahul asserted..
"No.. It was..", Nikki had started, but "It was my plan.. The organ stealing and smuggling was my idea.. And that was the crux of the prank.. Kyun Armaan.. " Dr. Shashank had heard them bickering as he came down with Riddhima and decided to stake his claim too..
And obviously Armaan, who had almost jumped as he heard that voice, agreed to anything his to-be-sasurji said.. "Yes sir.. Of course.." , and he stood up, only to be pulled down by Anjali again, "Papa.. Stop bossing over him.. And Don't take all the credit..", she fought with her dad too.. But Padma had had this.. It was stupid enough to have played such a joke that they were now fighting about who was the plotter.. All of them were actually.. Immature idiots.. So she made her stand clear, "Enough.. Now.. Stop all this.. Chalo Riddhima.. Armaan.. Tum dono ko bhook lagi hogi.. Khaana kha lo.. Shashank.. Aap bhi kha lijiye..", she instructed and left to the dining area.. Armaan got up, as he followed Riddhima, his gaze not wavering from her as she stole glances at him.. They took their plates and returned to where their friends were still probably arguing about the prank.. But they shut up as they saw Padma aunty join them too.. Abhi, Muskaan and Rahul who were sitting on the couch, slid down to the floor, to make space for Dr. Shashank, Padma aunty and Riddhima.. Armaan just resumed his place next to Anjali.. Riddhima who came in last looked around as she wondered where she should sit.. Then she stole a glance at Armaan, who was looking at her longingly.. How she wished, they could run away from here and eat in peace.. Just the two of them, so she could make him eat and he could feed her with his own hands.. She sighed as that seemed a little next to impossible for them.. She smiled a fake smile as she saw all her friends smirk at her, as she took her time to take her seat.. Sighing at her helplessness, she made her way to the couch, to sit next to her papa.. The good thing was that it was right opposite Armaan.. So at least they could look at each other, coz they certainly weren't interested in whatever conversations were going on otherwise.. As she was about to move towards the couch, Anjali stopped her, "Ridzi.. Wahan kahan jaa rahi hai.. Yahan baith na..", she grinned naughtily at her little sister, indicating to the place she was sitting.. Armaan looked hopefully at Riddhima as all of them enjoyed their expressions.. Riddhima blushed a little, but managed to reply normally as she said, "Di.. Wahan jagah nahi hai.. Where will I sit.."
"Of course jagah hai.. See ..", Anjali got up from her seat and pointed at it.. Riddhima looked down as she saw Armaan's pleading eyes and their friends' teasing grins.. She nodded and took that seat next to Armaan, still looking into her plate full of food that she wasn't interested in.. But she got the shock of her life when her Di, sat back on the same couch and pushed her towards Armaan.. "Di.. There's no place here.. Aap kya kar rahe ho.."
"Of course there's place", and she took a comfortable third seat on a two-seater couch, pushing Armaan against the side rest and a blushing Riddhima almost on his lap.. Everyone laughed at that sight, they just couldn't get enough of teasing Armaan and Riddhima tonight.. But Armaan looked apprehensively at Dr. Shashank and surprisingly found him guaffawing with his stupid friends.. Riddhima moved ahead a little as she uncomfortably sat next to him, turning a deep crimson with all the teasing..
"Riddhima beta.. Tu inn logon ki baat mat sunn.. Aur Armaan.. Tum bhi.. Chalo khana khao.. ", Naani encouraged them, though she too was smiling a silly grin, looking at their expressions..
Armaan and Riddhima looked at her, then at each other and nodded.. As everyone again got into their own conversations and back to their dinners, Riddhima just stared at her food.. When she turned to Armaan, she found him already looking at her.. He was evidently waiting for her too start eating first.. She shook her head in a no, telling him to eat first.. Armaan was actually very hungry, having skipped his lunch too.. But he remained adamant about her eating first.. She smiled at him, then took a piece of her roti and dipping it in her daal, she stealthily placed it in his plate, looking around to see if anyone had noticed her.. Then looking at him, she beckoned him to eat it.. He grinned at her briliant idea.. He quickly followed in her steps as he too passed on to her plate his first morsel of food.. "Armaan.. Chor kahin ka.. Uski plate se kyun kha raha hai.. Khane de na usse..", Nikki who had caught Armaan in the act as he took a little while longer to leave his piece in her plate almost made him jump as she teased him.. That brought him to everyone's attention as they sniggered at him, all flushed, one hand still in Riddhima's plate and eyes wide in shock.. Riddhima smacked his hand away.. "Samajh na Nikki.. Un dono ko ek hi plate se khana hai.. You know what they say right..", Muskaan continued the tease as she winked at an embarrassed Armaan.. But this was the last straw for him.. He couldn't bear them teasing him in front of Dr. Shashank.. That was too much for him to take.. He got up quickly, "Uh.. I need some water.."
"Arre.. Tum kyun jaa rahe ho Armaan.. Main le aati hoon.. And give me your plate too.. I don't think you need it anymore.. ", Padma also couldn't resist the urge to tease him.. "Uh.. Nahi.. I'll just go get it myself..", and without waiting for a reply he escaped from there, leaving all of them in fits of laughter.. Riddhima was about to get up to go behind him, but Anjali stopped her, "Ridzi.. Where are you going.. Tujhe bhi paani chahiye.."
Riddhima blushed as she sat back, "Stop it guys.. Bechaare ne kucch nahi khaya hai ab tak..", Riddhima knew she was going to be teased like hell for this, but she couldn't take it anymore.. Even she was irritated with all the teasing..
"Riddhima.. Beta.. Sab mazaak kar rahe hain.. Itna seriously mat lo..", Shashank told her as he was enjoying this case taking.. He had never imagined he would, but he was really enjoying it.. They were pretty cute, he thought.. But when she didn't reply he tried diverting her attention, "Accha forget all this.. Lets all finish dinner quickly, then we'll light the firecrackers..", he said excitedly..
Riddhima smiled at that.. He knew how much she liked the firecrackers.. Not the noisy ones.. But the ones that shot up in the sky and shot a million stars.. She always loved to watch them.. But this time she had other plans.. "Papa.. Can we go to.. Uh.. Armaan's place..", she couldn't dare to call it our place yet, "uh.. Actually, I wanted to at least light a few diyas there.. I mean.. Armaan ko kucch aata nahi hai na.. He wont do it.. ", she tried justifying as her parents smiled at their blushing daughter.. That's when Shashank realized, how much of her he was losing day by day.. Now she had another home too.. Someone else to look after.. It hit him worse now.. But today was a happy occasion and he couldn't deny his princess anything today.. "Of course beta.. We'll all go there.. ", Riddhima was pleasantly surprised as was Padma as they both stared at him in awe, while all others just smiled at this perfect and happy family..
So after dinner, everyone piled up in two three cars and drove off towards Armaan's place.. Riddhima smiled as she remembered his expression when she told him that they were planning to go to his place.. She had found him sitting on the kitchen counter, and eating as he talked to himself, complaining to god alone knows who, about how unfair life was.. He was really irritated with all the teasing.. But the moment he heard the news that Riddhima brought for him, he left whatever he was doing and hurried to the door.. As they reached 'their' place, Riddhima felt all nostalgic.. It felt like forever that she had driven in through that gate.. She could only remember the last time when her dad had driven her out of here.. But she put that horrible thought aside and looked forward to finally come home..
Armaan too was overwhelmed as they parked outside their home.. He had not seen this place in like forever.. He had avoided coming here today and went to Rahul's place instead, coz he couldn't stand the emptiness of it without her.. At that thought he looked around to see her getting out of another car, staring at the place in front of her, that was witness to their love..
"Armaan.. Chaabi kahan hain.. Jaldi khol..", Nikki called out as they had already reached the door along with Riddhima.. He rummaged in his bag and finally found the key.. Everyone smiled as he handed it to Riddhima.. She took a moment to look into his moist eyes and knew she wasn't supposed to return this one again.. She smiled at him, blinking a thank you and opened the doors to their safe haven, their refuge, their paradise.. All of them entered and managed to switch on the lights and stuff.. They made themselves comfortable in the living room, tired from the really long day they had.. But Armaan and Riddhima were still standing outside as they waited for Naani to get in too.. They didn't leave each others' gaze at all as Armaan stepped forward and held her hand, entwining his fingers with hers.. They both stepped forward, looking into each others' eyes, as they entered their home together.. And it wasn't empty this time.. All the people that they cared about and loved were here.. All the people who loved them and cared for them were here.. This was what they had always wanted.. This was what he had always wanted.. This was what she had always wanted for him..
"Riddhima.. Why do we have to clean.. Its 11:30 and everyone's tired and sleepy.. Why cant we just light the diyas or whatever and do what you want to and get over with it..", Armaan asked her as she dusted the kitchen.. She ignored his protests as she continued her work.. Then taking the broom, she walked out of the kitchen door and up to the terrace.. "Forget it Armaan.. Who bohot ziddi hai.. And anyway, the rooms and stuff are done..", Padma said as she witnessed the scene from the entrance..
"Till she's done, just help me with these..", she took out a thaali and started placing diyas on them.. He helped her our oil and light them.. He felt weird as he had never done this before.. When she told him the story behind celebrating Diwali, he vaguely remembered his teacher telling him something like that in school.. He never really celebrated Diwali once he was out of school and out of the Orphanage.. He used to be alone during festivals.. He was really touched that all of them were making so much effort to make this Diwali special for him.. Especially Riddhima.. "This is my first Diwali in this house Armaan.. And I am not going to compromise on the cleanliness..", she had said frustrated with his constant attempts to dissuade her from cleaning up..
Armaan looked at him amused.. He knew he was eager to get some alone time with his newly wed wife.. He couldn't believe they were being so sweet, waiting here, being a part of his happiness, when they should have been celebrating their first night in their new home..
Soon Abhi's wish had come true as they all looked at the well lit house, Riddhima smiling proudly at how pretty it looked.. It wasn't much, but the effort was hers.. Armaan stood next to her as he whispered , "Happy Diwali..", in her ear to see her dazzling smile light up the already bright ambience.. Then they lit a few firecrackers that Dr. Shashank had not forgotten to get for his daughter.. And he was delighted when she smiled and thanked him as she stared at them in awe.. It was past midnight when all of them trudged back inside, completely exhausted from the long, really long day!
"Chalo.. I think we'll call it a night.. ", Anjali got up as Atul followed her.. They were the first ones to have given up as everyone else sipped coffees..
"Bye.. Good night..", all of them wished them a tired goodbye as Armaan followed them out, to bid them goodbye.. He didn't want them to go.. He knew they'll all just disappear in a matter of minutes and leave him alone again.. And he couldn't handle that.. Not today at least.. That would be a total anticlimax to a perfect day! As he hugged Atul and Anjie at their car, thanking them for all they had done for him and Riddhima, "Di.. You forgot your phone..", Riddhima came hurrying out, hoping they hadn't left.. She hugged her Di and jeeju too as they finally drove out.. Both of them watched their car leave the gate and smiled.. All said and done they had in some corner of their heart enjoyed all the teasing and leg pulling.. Coz behind all that was one fact, that their friends cared a lot about them, to go out of their way and do all this to make it a special day for them.. Both of them were sure that they would remember this day forever.. They turned back to go back in, to the rest of their friends and family, thinking about how they had come a long way, from the first time they met, till today as they walked hand in hand.. As they approached the door that scene from about a month ago flashed before them, reminding them of all that they had to go through to get what they have today.. Armaan stopped first as she got pulled back before she could climb the two steps back in.. He was still lost in that moment, which had been the beginning of an end for them.. "Armaan..", she asked him as he still looked lost.. He looked at her and his eyes said it all.. He knew what was playing on his mind.. She was aware of where they were standing.. Suddenly realizing how life had come a full circle for them, she caressed his face as she said, "I love you Armaan.."
And all those moments of pain and anguish started melting away as he brought her closer by the waist and replied, "I love you Basket.."
She put her arms around his waist as she hugged him, leaning onto his chest.. She took in his presence, the entire day playing in front of her, as she finally believed that he was hers.. He held her close, tightening his grip on her, making himself believe that he was here, back in their world.. She was his and this time there was nothing between them.. Nothing at all.. He hid her face in her hair, taking in its fragrance that he had missed so much.. He had craved so much for her in these weeks of separations.. He couldn't believe he had managed to live without her.. It would be impossible for him to do it again.. It would take his life.. "I love you..", he whispered, to assure her and himself that this wasn't really a dream.. She heard him and pulled out a little, her eyes becoming moist as she looked into his.. And she got lost in them as she always does, all that love in his eyes waiting to be poured out.. She saw him lean in as he whispered again, "I love you so much..", she closed her eyes as she felt his finger brush her lips once, to make sure this was still real.. She was aware of his every tremble as he hesitated, then very gently placed his lips on hers.. She smiled against his lips and a tear slipped out of her eye.. She couldn't describe what it felt like, as that realization finally sunk in.. This was real.. He was real.. She was real.. They were real.. Together forever.. Armaan felt her hands reach the top of his back and into his hair as she pulled him closer, proving to him that he wasn't dreaming anymore.. They were here.. They had always been.. In this moment forever.. He moved his lips gently on hers, telling her how much her loves her, finally completing what they had started out to do that night, at this very place that had torn them apart.. But they had always been here.. They were just destined to be.. As he felt her tears wetting his lips as they flowed down continuously, he pulled out to look at her.. But she leaned into him, asking for more, her entire weight on him now as he held her up by her waist.. She was lost completely.. He saw her beautiful face, her eyelids hiding her eyes from him, that expression of tranquil on her face.. There was nothing more serene and beautiful in the world.. And the world disappeared as he wanted to give her all that she wanted.. And all she wanted was to be in his arms forever.. He kissed her softly once and almost in a trance, just picked her petite self in his arms and made his way to the kitchen door from the outside.. Riddhima opened her eyes as she felt him lift her.. She found him looking at her as she looked back at him, not asking him once where he was taking her.. Coz she would go with him wherever he took her.. As long as he was with her.. That's all she wanted..
"Armaan..", Muskaan saw him turn the corner toward the back of the house with Riddhima in his arms.. She had come out to check on them as they had not returned and now everyone, especially Abhi, was getting desperate to go home.. So she had come out to look for them and seen Armaan walk away with Riddhima in his arms.. She had started to call out, but lost her voice at the sight.. And they were so lost in each other that she didn't have the heart to say anything else.. Nor did they realize she had called out.. She blushed to herself as she thought that they did deserve this time.. Now more than ever.. As she made her way in, Abhi's eyes widened to see her alone again, "Kya hua Muskaan.. Armaan aur Riddhima kahan hai..", Padma asked her..
"Who aunty.. Uh.. Terrace pe gaye hain.. ", Muskaan told her, not looking into her eye, with a small smile..
Shashank raised his eyebrows at that and looked at his wife who was smiling.. He calmed himself a little, trying to be the cool, understanding dad.. "So.. Lets call her down.. We should get going..", he said, uncomfortably..
Muskaan suddenly struck an idea, "Shashank sir, hum log soch rahe the, that since its so late already, we'll have a sleep over.. I mean, adhi raat toh nikal gayi hai.. Kyun Rahul?"
Rahul was confused as he saw her make weird gestures.. Sleep over!!. "Kya?.."
"Rahul..", she hissed and glared at him.. He knew what this meant.. This meant that he was supposed to agree to whatever she says..
"Yes.. Yes sir.. I mean uncle.. We were thinking of a sleep over..", he said, Abhi gave him such a murderous glare, if only looks could kill..
Padma smiled as she understood exactly what was going on.. But she was ok with it if Rahul and Muskaan were going to be here.. She knew Armaan and Riddhima needed to spend time with each other.. It must be difficult to believe what had happened all of a sudden today.. "Theek hai.. We should leave then.. Ma.. Shashank.. Chalein..", Nani, immediately started off slowly towards the door.. She was tired and not at all used to late nights.. But Shashank's eyes were wide open at what was going on.. He obviously couldn't and didn't want to say no.. But he was apprehensive.. He was really interested to go up and find out what Armaan and Riddhima were up to on the terrace.. "Uh.. So.. Lets call Riddhima.. I'll wish her a good night..", he told Muskaan and Padma.. Rahul snorted, but controlled his laughter.. "Shashank.. Aap bhi na.. You can wish her tomorrow morning..", and she started pulling him to the door with his hand.. "Bye.. Baccho.. Have a nice time..", she wished them..
"So.. What do you kids do at a sleep over.. I mean I haven't been to one..", Shashank asked them cautiously, trying to be as less nosy as possible.. Nikki smiled at his condition as she replied, "Kucch nahi uncle.. We'll just stay up all night.. And catch up with each other.."
"You stay up!.. Why is it called a sleep over then?.. And how do you exactly catch up.. "
"Shashank.. Enough.. Chaliye bohot lae ho gaya hai..", and she glared at him.. He followed her very reluctantly to the car as he wondered how Armaan and Riddhima were 'catching up' with each other..
"Sleep over?.. Sleep over!!!", Abhi snarled as the elders left them to themselves.. "Are you insane.. I want to go home..", he had lost it now..
"Abhi calm down.. This was the only way to give them some alone time yaar.. Bechaare.. Good job Muski..", Nikki tried to get him relaxed..
But he got even more hyper.. "Oh. Ho.. Good job Muski.. Who dono bechare.. Aur main?.. "
"Abhi yaar.. Tu jaa na ghar.. No one's stopping you..", Rahul said casually, ignoring his exaggerated sarcasm..
"Of course I am going.. Its our first night and they have already started with theirs.. I am still sitting here.. So unfair.."
"Abhi.. Enough!.. Mujhe gussa mat dilao.. Tumhara first and last night, literally, yahin kar dungi..", Nikki threatened him, through her blush as Rahul and Muskaan sniggered at Abhi's complaints..
"You guys go ahead.. We'll wait.. Anyway, I don't have my car.. And in case Dr. Shashank calls or something, someone should be there..", he joked..
Nikki nodded as she stormed out of the house with her bag, Abhi hurrying behind her, wondering now, if he would at least not have to spend his first night sleeping alone on the couch..
Muskaan was still giggling at the duo as they left.. When she turned to look at Rahul, he was looking at her and smiling his naughty smile.. "Kya hai?.. Battisi kyun dikha raha hai..", she asked him, looking away.. She knew what was coming.. He stepped closer to her as he put his arm around her waist to pull her closer.. "Kucch nahi.. I was wondering, ki himari first night ke liye kaunsa kamra theek rahega.."
"Rahul!", she hit him on his arm, blushing as he picked her up, leading her to one of the rooms for their, oh-so-not first night.. She remembered theirs still very well.. Just a few weeks back.. Her hot lingerie trick had worked and they had spent an entire weekend in bed.. Blushing at that thought and the anticipation of it all, she hid her face in his shoulder as carried her to one of the rooms and kicked the door shut behind him..
Armaan had carried Riddhima to her favorite place in this house, the terrace.. It had been beautifully lit by diyas earlier tonight, and a few of the diyas were still emitting their yellow light as they flickered in the cool breeze of the night.. But Armaan and Riddhima had eyes only for each other as he took her to the spread that was laid against a wall.. The same place where they had once before, dreamt about being together.. That had been a magical night.. But this one was incomparable.. He pulled her into his lap as he sat with his back against the wall, bringing her closer by her waist.. She didn't waist any time in leaning into his chest and hiding her face their, her arms going around his waist to keep him close to her.. "I love you..", she whispered against his skin and he tightened his hold on her, pulling her closer to himself.. His hands caressed her back, as he rested his head on her shoulder, nuzzling in the crook of her neck, remembering how it felt, rediscovering all those moments.. She felt him, his warm breath, his cold hands on her half bare back.. And a final realization of his presence made its way out of her eyes, wetting his kurta as she kissed his chest, moving to his neck.. He realized she was crying and pulled out to look at her.. And that only increased the rush of emotion out of her eyes that craved just him, as he craved for her.. As he read that in her eyes, he wasted no time in claiming her lips, this time kissing her passionately, telling her that he was his.. Telling her that he would never leave her ever.. And she kissed him back, renewing her promises that she had made, that she had kept and would always keep, no matter what.. All that pain that had made home in their eyes was forced out by their kiss, as they pulled each other closer, wanting to nothing but this feeling to last forever.. His tears mingled with her hers as that relief of having her back, of feeling her with him came back to him.. He wasn't alone.. He was sure he never will be..
"I love you Riddhima.." he whispered in her ear as he saw her sleep in his arms.. He was leaning back on the wall and she was still in his lap, her ear pressed against his heart, his heart beat singing her a lullaby.. He held her close, cradling her to himself, looking down at the angel that lay in his arms.. Her peaceful expression told him she was sleeping a dreamless peaceful sleep, something she must've have craved for so long.. He had too.. But he didn't want to sleep.. Not yet anyway.. He was scared to shut his eyes, lest she turns out a dream and disappears when he wakes up.. He couldn't lose her.. Not even in his dreams.. He snuggled her closer to himself protectively, kissing her forehead, making sure she was his.. He leaned back, as she moved due to his movements, and let her hold him tighter as she slept peacefully in his arms.. As he looked up at the sparkling stars smiling at him through the transparent roof, he recollected the entire day.. This day that he would never forget in his life.. It had started with him in her arms.. But she didn't want him then.. And it ended with her in his arms.. And wanted nothing but him.. Of all the crazy and unbelievable things that happened in this blur of a day, one thing was real, that it started with her and ended with her.. This was what defined his life..
I am planning to write a friendship story. I will choose the love interest of Paras Kalnawat and Karan Kundra according to the choice of the...
Hello everyone âşď¸ This is Saumya â¤ď¸ I have completed the five long threads of my FF "Hum Sath Sath Hain.!" A modern time story Following are the...
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2
Cricket
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