Mere Apne4(AR) - Epi71-88 - Note on Pg147 - Page 26

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Armaan agreed to marry Riddhima.

The four discussed what to do next. It was decided that they will talk to their parents first and then to Riddhima. Atul, Anjali, Rahul and Muskaan, all of them decided to face this together, coz they knew if they didnt tell what they have done to their parents, then Armaan will definitely tell them about the blackmailing and all, and it might be the end of their superb plan. Minnie was also informed about Armaan's decision who was very happy to know about it.

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Next day, the gang of four decided to first gather both the families together. Armaan and Riddhima were at the office, while Atul and Rahul have taken the leave so that they could talk to their parents about the matter. They have already informed Armaan about it, coz he has been bothering them to tell everything to elders. Riddhima stayed clueless about everything and thought Rahul has stayed back home for Muskaan.

Dadi, Omang and Aarti were taken to Rahul's place by Atul and Anjali. Rahul narrated everything to them as well as to Shashank and Padma. Elders were obviously very unhappy with the way they have coaxed Armaan into this marriage, especially Omang. He rebuked all of them for using such a nasty and hideous trick to convince Armaan. Shashank was also unhappy, but understanding true intensions of the gang of four, he tried to pacify Omang by saying that atleast nothing bad happened.

Dadi on the other hand was very happy. She knew that if the plan had back-fired or those pictures had landed into wrong hands, then they would have been in deep trouble. But then she also knew that Atul, Anjali, Rahul and Mukaan, all of them love Armaan as well as Riddhima a lot and their intention was never to hurt them. Dadi had full faith in them and knew that they must have executed this plan only after making sure that there are no loop-holes left out.

Besides, Dadi was aware of how difficult it was to wheedle Armaan. They have been trying to do it using all the right ways... means to convince him to marry someone for the last seven years, but nothing worked. And now, if their children have finally managed to convince him for that, then no matter what method they used, the only thing that mattered now is that nothing bad happened and at last their dream of settling Armaan was very close to becoming the reality.

Finally, with Dadi's intervention, everyone forgave the gang, including Omang. Though convincing Riddhima was still left, but they knew that it wont be too hard to do so. Muskaan being the master of Emotional-drama and making stories, was given the responsibility to do so. Anjali too was going to help her in the same, while Padma too offered her helping hand ecstatically, if needed.

They all discussed about the marriage plans. Omang called Guruji to inform him about that Armaan has agreed to marry Riddhima. Guruji told him to bless the couple on his behalf and promised to call them back after calculating an auspicious day for the marriage. What else the two joyful families needed.

It was the day that finally brought the good news they have been waiting for such a long time. All of them celebrated the news by congratulating, feeding sweets and hugging to each other. Dadi invited them all to their house on the weekend for the lunch and dinner and asked to bring along Riddhima as well.

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Next day, Atul informed Armaan about the good news early morning while he was in his Gym. Armaan all of sudden felt weirdly conscious. When he joined the others on the Breakfast Table, he tried his best to behave normal, but couldnt. He kept dropping some or the other thing, coughing slightly, clearing his throat, drinking water more instead of having his breakfast.

Others hide their smile at his clearly nervous state. Anjali even teased him twice, but even though his heart fluttered at her comments, he didnt respond and just passed a weak-awkward smile. So to evade all of it, he finished his breakfast, or better say half-ate it, and taking Vaibhav's hand ran away, excusing himself by saying that he will drop Vaibhav to his school.

As soon as he left, all others burst out laughing. His family knew, what he must be going through. They were aware that Armaan's hesitation wasnt coz he has agreed to the proposal due to some stupid reason, but coz he has always said no to almost ten thousand girls before Riddhima. They knew that somewhere within Armaan's heart knows that if it was any other girl apart from Riddhima, he would had never agreed to marry no matter what happened.

Somehow they knew that Armaan would never say no for Riddhima. He may try to cover it up with any random imprudent reason(s), however the feelings he has for her are now evident to everyone. His eyes said it all. How could he say no to the girl he likes so much? Or shall we say, the girl he has already started to fall in love with... They knew that its only the circumstances and his past that has kept them under confusion, otherwise, he is one of those, who believed in following his heart.

Aarti, Omang and Dadi were still a little unsure thinking that maybe he has agreed to the proposal due to that picture-blackmailing. Atul apologized again for their stupid trick, but also assured them that its not only about blackmailing, Armaan has agreed coz he actually likes Riddhima. He is only under denial because of his past experiences. He said that they never wanted to play this nasty trick, but were forced to do so, when Armaan refused to listen to them about anything in straight words.

Aarti instructed Anjali to make arrangements for the weekend Lunch and Dinner. She called Padma to invite them once again, actually to confirm if they are visiting or not. Padma of course has already accepted the invitation. Both the families had already started making plans for the marriage at their respsective ends. Muskaan and Anjali also discussed how they will have to convince Riddhima. Anjali suggested her to wait till the weekend and then talk to Riddhima.

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After dropping Vaibhav to his school, Armaan drove towards his office. Today he felt unusually content and relaxed. On reaching office, he even flirted with the receptionist. His staff was both surprised as well as happy to see him back to his old self. They understood the reason must be related to Riddhima. His smile told them that he has finally agreed for the proposal.

On the other hand, Riddhima was still unaware of all these events in performance behind her back. When one of the staff asked her indirectly if she is happy about her new relationship, she was confused. She couldnt understand what were they talking about. The girls were surprised when they realized that she is still unaware about her marriage being fixed with their boss.

Riddhima was still oblivious of everything and was behaving in her usual innocent way. It means their family havent spoken to her about it. The staff chose to keep mum about it, coz they knew that her and Armaan's families must have planned to talk to her in their own way.

Armaan reached his office around an hour late. He was in an obvious cheerful and good mood. Entering his office, the first thing he did was open all the windows of his cabin. He went to the balcony engulfing the fresh-morning air. He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath spreading his arms wide open in the air.

Though he has agreed to marry Riddhima on being coaxed by his family and 'circumstances', but his heart knew the reality. His heart knew that, out of numerous decisions he has taken in his life till now, this is the only one which will bring happiness in his own life. His personal life which has been of the least priority for him, is now going to be delighted with a new entry.

Riddhima entered his cabin after while to narrate the day's schedule to him. She had another file she needed to discuss with him. But, he wasnt there on his seat. She knew he has arrived by the presence of his Laptop lying on his table. She thought he is in his adjacent apparment. She went to the door and knocked it twice, but didnt get a reply. Sighing she came back to his table.

Feeling a cold wisp of breeze she looked up. To her surprise she saw him standing there in the balcony with his arms spread wide open. His eyes were closed. What is he doing there, with his arms spread out like an eagle? Is he meditating or something? She thought. Maybe... She waited for him to come back, but he didnt buzz from his place.

After a few minutes, she checked the time. It was getting late and he has a meeting in an hours time. Her brows wrinkled, what is he doing? For how long is this meditation going to continue? She thought. Its getting late.

'Abhi to wahaan khade hue pata nahi kya kar raha hai, baad mein der ho gayi to mujhpe hi gussa hoga phir...' she mumbled. She got up from her chair to call him inside. While crossing his table, her knee hit the corner of the table. Flinching as she tried to stand straight, the papers in the file she had in her hand fell loose on the ground.

"Offo... inhe bhi abhi girna tha..." she mumbled again. She bent to collect the papers from the ground, but they flew away, spreading all over in the cabin. The cold breeze entering the office through the open windows led them to the corners of the cabin. "Arey... ek to pahle hi der ho rahi hai, or ab ye sab..." she looked at the papers flying away and ran to collect them.

His trance broke as he heard her voice. She said something like 'Offo...' followed by something else as well. Turning back he saw her sitting down on the floor doing something. He walked back inside to see the papers flying all over the cabin. He bend to pick a paper lying near the table while she was collecting the ones that has flawn to the other corner of the room. Picking the papers, he moved there to help her.

As she kept her hand over another paper to pick it, another hand landed on her. She looked up to see him sitting on his knees collecting the papers. He already had a few in his other hand. Armaan looked at her as he felt her soft skin under his palm. They were face to face, their eyes met... Her eyes spread wide with surprise as she gulped. He stared at that beautiful face blinking slowly. She pulled her hand back looking down shyly.

For moments they sat there on their knees, silently, doing nothing. His eyes fixated on her face. When she looked up again he was still looking at her. He had a new glow on his face today. He looked happy. She smiled slowly. She felt his gaze traveling from one eye to the other, as if searching something in them. His continuous gaze made her a little conscious.

She tried to stand up but by mistake she stepped on her own dupatta. Both her hands landed on his shoulders for support. He was still sitting. He supported her before she fall grabbing her by her waist. Her glasses fell, while a few tresses covered her forehead blocking the view of one of her eyes. He glanced into her eyes once again, she looked back into his. Slowly she sat back again, her hands still resting on his shoulder, his on her waist.

To Armaan, it felt like a dream. He was close to her. He was looking into her eyes, without her glasses acting as a barrier. His hand moved up towards her face. She felt the warmth of his fingers brushing her forehead as he moved away her tresses blocking her eye. She sensed her veins quiver as his fingers touched her pelt.

Suddenly he heard a loud sound that broke his trance. Turning his head, he saw a flower vase on the floor. It has fallen down from his table when the breeze has pushed down some papers lying under it. He looked back in Riddhima's direction, to find her still sitting on the floor, collecting papers, mumbling something to herself.

Oh... So he has been dreaming. He scratched his head smiling, and walked to help her.

Sitting near her, Armaan started collecting the papers. Riddhima's back was facing him. Picking another paper as she twisted on her knees in her sitting position to turn around, her head bumped into his shoulder. Both of them fell on opposite sides on their back.

"Uff..." she uttered. First she frowned, but then seeing him lying on his back in the same way she has fallen, she smiled at him.

"Sorry..." he mumbled sitting back again returning her the smile.

Riddhima was surprised to see him return her smile. Is he really smiling? She looked at him carefully as he started collecting the papers again. Yes he is. Smiling to herself, she started collecting them herself once again. Picking the papers, when he placed his hand on a paper, her hand landed on his. They looked up and smiled at each other.

Her smile widened seeing his dimpled lope-sided smile. She was relieved on seeing him smiling after such a long time. The smile she didn't know she likes so much that she have missed it a lot. He looked charming with that warm smile... Its been a long time she havent seen that glow on his face. Looking at his smile once again, she kept papers in her hand in the file in her hand, from which they had fallen earlier.

She stood up, but slipped as her foot landed on a paper. "Aahh..." she closed her eyes. Within a moment, she realized that she havent actually landed on ground. When she opened eyes again, she realized that she was leaning over him. Her hands over his shoulders. He was lying on the floor in sitting position, one of his hand on the floor supporting him while other on her waist.

She was sitting on her knees with her weight left to be supported by his strong shoulders. Her glasses has fallen exposing her eyes to him. His heart jigged beats. She saw his fixated gaze on her face. She felt uneasy... strangely in a sweet way. She looked down, then back at him. Today, the way he was looking at her was very different... different from all those times she has noticed him looking or even staring at her.

There was a relaxed smile on his face. His eyes were soft, amiably glancing back at her. His fingers were warm, yet cold. She felt cold on her waist-line. He has removed his hand from there. Raising his hand, he brought it close to her face, and moved the tresses from her face away slowly letting his fingers linger over her forehead making her quiver. It was an awkward moment for her. She averted her eyes away from his.

"Ah..." she sighed closing her eyes for a moment, then opening them immediately. She passed a quick glance at him. He was still staring at her. She felt strange... "Err... Sir..." she said softly. He didnt reply. "Sir..." she repeated, only to feel his breath over her face. She quivered again. "S-sir..." looking back at him, she noticed that he wasnt listening.

"AHEM-AHEM..." Riddhima looked at the entrance on hearing someone clearing his throat. Taken aback by the sudden appearance of Atul, she stood up with a jolt.

Armaan fell on his back due to the jerk when she stood up in jiffy. He saw that she has turned around. His brow wrinkled when he heard someone clear his throat again. This time even louder, "AHEM-AHEM... AHEM... AHEM..."

"Bhai?" he realized that he was still on the floor, "Err... wo..." he stood up immediately wiping his pants. "Bhai tu? Yahaan? Kuch kaam tha kya?" he asked trying to divert his attention.

"Haan, aya to main kuchh kaam se hi tha. Lekin lagta hai ki timing thodi galat ho gayi..." Atul rolled his tongue meaningfully.

"Kya kaam tha?" Armaan cut him short as he felt his teasing tone.

"Wo kuchh papers check karwaane the tujhse. But I think I will have to come back..." He said looking at Riddhima, who was still standing with her back facing them. He has seen everything that has happened between Armaan and Riddhima a few minutes earlier.

Armaan too looked at Riddhima and realized that she was feeling awkward. "N-nahin. Baad mein kyun? Abhi bata na."

"Nahi, main baad mein hi ata hu. Shayad tun dono kuchh confidential discuss kar rahe the aur maine disturb kar diya."

"Aisa kuchh nahi hai Bhai, hum to bas ye papers..." he trailed showing him the papers in his hand that he ans Riddhima has been collecting from the floor.

"Achchha? Hmm..." Atul rubbed his chin as if thinking something for a moment, then continued grimly, "To kya meri shakal aaj achchhi nahi lag rahi?" He touched every feature on his own face looking confused.

"Kyun? Tu to theek hi lag raha hai, roz ki tarah..." Armaan was also confused.

"Haan, lekin agar main ajeeb nahi lag raha to phir koi meri taraf dekh kyun nahi raha..." he pointed towards Riddhima who seems to be too engrossed in her file.

Armaan understood who he was trying to refer, "Err... Riddhima..." he called, "Riddhima..."

She was reading the file. The moment she saw Atul staring at them, she realized that she and Armaan were in an awkward position. Standing up immediately, she engrossed herself in her file arranging the papers, shutting all her senses. Even though, she was standing very close to the two of them, she didnt hear what was being conversed between Armaan and Atul.

When she didnt reply and kept turning the pages of her file, Armaan moved a little closer and hesitating a bit, placed his hand on her shoulder. She quivered again inwardly feeling his hand over her shoulder. But then on hearing his voice composed herself.

"Err... Riddhima..." he spoke softly. She turned around. He pointed towards Atul who pretended to be reading something in the papers in his hand.

"Ah... oh... H-Hi Atul Bhaiya... Err... Atul Sir..." she corrected herself.

Atul looked up at her and smiled, "Hi Riddhima..." he kept looking at her and then at Armaan with a wicked smile as if teasing Armaan. Riddhima found his gaze strange. She could see the hint of mischief in Atul's eyes, but couldnt understand the reason behind it.

Armaan fathomed what was Atul trying to do. Walking back to his table, he tried to divert the agenda, "Ahem-ahem... Kya... kaam tha... Bhai?"

Atul saw that Riddhima wasnt feeling to confortable with the way he was looking at them. So he thought to leave them alone for the time. He could pull Armaan's leg later. "Haan, ye papers hain..." he sat on the chair pushing his file towards Armaan, "...inhe ek baar check kar le zara..."

"Hmm..." Armaan nodded and started checking the file. But his mind was still somewhere at the other corner of the cabin, where she was there. He stole a glance of her. She was collecting rest of the papers. Then she sat on the couch and started arranging them in order. Her face still displayed her awkwardness of moments ago. He felt guilty for making her uneasy and thought of doing something to ease her. He called, "Riddhima..."

"Yes Sir..." she looked up.

"Kuchh din pehle jo construction department ne raw material ke liye tender ke invites bheje the, ye uski quote file hai. Jab tak main ye papers check karta hu, tum iski details zara Atul ko bata do please'" he requested showing her a file on his table.

"Ok Sir..." she smiled relaxing as her mind got diverted towards work.

"Arey tum wahin baithi raho..." Atul stopped her as she stood up. "...main wahin ata hu..." he took the file and went to sit beside her on the couch.

Atul helped her arrange the papers that have fallen earlier as Armaan got busy with his work. Once papers were arranged, Riddhima described all details of the Tender quotes they received.

After finishing his work a few minutes later, when he looked up towards them, he found them laughing at something. Sitting on the couch, they were talking like long-lost friends. He knew that they share a very special bond, but this was the first time he was seeing them talking in such a friendly way, in front on him.

Atul said something in her ear to which she frowned fakely, then laughed aloud sweetly. Atul shushed her at her loudness, so she placed her hand over her lips, giggling quietly. Armaan smiled looking at them. She looked so cute while giggling silently with her hands over her mouth, as it made her beautiful eyes stand out a little more.

Armaan noticed that Riddhima was wearing her glasses once again. It wasnt that he didnt like her this way, he liked her in anyways... with or without glasses. But yes, she looked much better without them, he admitted... Coz he could see her twinkling eyes in better view that way.

All this time, Atul has noticed Armaan stealing glances of Riddhima. He was happy to see that special glow on his brother's face for the first time, which only love can bring. He knew that Armaan loves her. No matter what he says, Atul has seen that emotion in his eyes. But Armaan has not yet realized it. Atul was relieved that he has agreed to marry her and soon enough he will also realize his true feelings for Riddhima.

Atul also noticed that even Riddhima stole a few glances of him. Though he was surprised, but not shocked. Muskaan and Rahul have already told them that she likes Armaan. Just like Armaan doesnt know that he loves Riddhima, maybe she also love him, but is oblivious of it. As it is, she is too innocent to understand all this. He was glad that they werent 'actually' forcing them into this relationship. They were just acting as anchors to bring them together.

Riddhima left after a while to finish her other work. Atul too discussed some work related details with Armaan and went back to his cabin a little later.

As soon as left alone, closing his eyes, Armaan sat in his chair to relax for some time. He didnt realize when he drifted off to sleep.

When he woke up he realized that it was already past lunch time. His eyes fell on Riddhima's cabin. He wanted to see her again. But how? He remembered that he havent been narrated the days's schedule yet. He called her in his cabin.

"Ji Sir?" she asked. He looked up, "Aapne bulaya?"

For a moment, he forgot why has he called her, then said, "Yes-yes..." signaling her sit down, he continued, "You didnt narrate me my day's schedule today Miss... Gupta..."

She looked up at him. His words might be professional, but his tone was back to his old teasy-self. Was he teasing her? But why? "Ji, actually main subah aapko schedule bataane hi aayi thi, lekin wo phir..." she trailed, recalling their close moments.

He glanced at her again when she stopped speaking. She was looking confused about something, "Phir?" he asked in the same tone.

"Phir wo... wo..." she fumbled and then added, "...wo Atul Bhaiya, I means Atul Sir aa gaye, aur hum dusra kaam karne lage." she looked at him staring at her, smiling. Why is he smiling? And he is definitely teasing me, she decided.

"Hmm..." he nodded, "So..." she looked at him perplexed, he added, "...lets do it now then."

"What sir?" she asked perplexed.

"Schedule... can you tell me about my schedules now?" he pointed towards the schedule log.

"Oh... of course..." she sat on the chair and narrated him rest of the day's schedules.

As she finished, Armaan exclaimed, "Oh god, it means that I missed the meeting with Mr.Mishra... how on earth did I managed to skip that?" he shook disappointedly.

"Sir, dont worry about it. Fortunately Mr.Mishra called to inform that he wont be able to make it today. So the meeting was cancelled. I have re-scheduled it for Monday." she explained.

"When did this happen?" he asked.

"When you were talking to Atul Sir."

"Hmm..." he sighed. Looking up at her, he added, "You saved me today..." she narrowed her eyes in confusion, to which he added, "I mean, I never miss my meetings, and this was an important one." he smiled seeing which she too did the same. Cute... he thought seeing her smiling face. Suddenly he asked, "Have you ever thought of Contacts?"

"Huh?" she looked up from her note-pad, "What?"

"Contacts." He repeated.

"I-I didnt understand what you mean Sir."

"I mean the lenses... the contact lenses..." he pointed towards her eyes, "...for your eyes."

"N-no." Where did this come from? She adjusted her glasses, "Why sir?"

"I think you will look better without these Gandhiji's momento." he pointed again.

"What?" she squinted, "FYI, these are not Gandhiji's momentos... these are my specs."

"Oh really? Hmm... Maybe I am wrong." He pretended as if thinking something, then, "Oh yes, this is a Cobra then."

"A Cobra?" she made a face. Has he gone nutters?

"Yeah, a Cobra. Your so-called 'specs' look like someone has hung a black king cobra on your funny face, in an artistic fashion..." he teased intentionally.

Riddhima could figure out his teasing tone by now. "You..." obviously it made her furious. What kind of stupid remark is that? Picking up her note-pad, she stomped back to her cabin.

Armaan laughed aloud as she slammed the door. It was after such a long time, he did this. He loved teasing her. She was easy to be evoked. Just now he realized how much he missed doing this. After laughing for a while, he resumed his work again, smiling to himself.

Riddhima slammed the door behind her mumbling to herself, "Main hi pagal hu. Mujhe laga tha ki wo badal gaya hai. Thodi si akal aa gayi hai usmein. Lekin nahi, wo to ab bhi waise hi hai... Irritating... mere specs use mazzaak lagte hain..." she pushed her glasses on her nose again. "Black King Cobra huh... argh..." she too resumed her work once again.

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That night, Armaan came back home in a very cheerful mood. He played with Vaibhav; nursed Dadi for a while, by messaging her feet; spoke joyfully with everyone in the house; pulled Chatur's legs; teased Anjali and Atul and so on. Everyone could see that and very well knew the reason behind his happiness. They were glad to see him back to his old cheerful self.

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On the other hand at Riddhima's house, she couldnt sleep properly. First coz she was annoyed with Armaan's comments and then due to another reason. She ate her dinner silently, making silly faces, recalling him. Others were surprised, but Muskaan assured them that she is fine. She knew Riddhima too well, as well as her body language.

Muskaan was aware that Riddhima must be annoyed because of Armaan, coz its not the first time she was seeing her that way. Riddhima had shared it with her many times, that how Armaan annoys her repeatedly. And while narrating all those things, she would make the same type of silly faces, like she made today at the dinner.

The second reason for Riddhima's sleepless night was once again Armaan. Every time she closed her eyes, his image appeared. Initially she was irritated, but then slowly, she too smiled. His smiling face smoothened her irritation. She felt relieved to see him back in his old form... teasing her. Yes, she still gets annoyed with his stupid comments, his non-sense remarks. But somewhere deep within, her heart craved for it.

For the last few weeks, his erratic behavior was making her sad and worried. Now that he is back, she was happy. She didnt know why, but it felt good to see him this way. His little gestures make everything look easier and lighter, unlike the days when he used to get cranky for every little reason. Riddhima drifted off to sleep, unknown of the fact that next few days were going to bring a big twist in her life.

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Riddhima overslept that day. To her relief, it was Saturday and she wasnt supposed to go to the work. When she came down from her room, rubbing her eyes, it was already around 10:10am. Standing on the last stair, she looked at Padma, who was busy packing a few things in a Basket. Shaguna, Rahul and Shashank were also helping her, while Muskaan sat in the living room, checking a few more packets.

What is happening? She thought. She jerked out of her thoughts, when Yash came running down from the stairs, bumping into her. She almost saved herself from falling. "Yash, ye kya kar rahe ho tum?" she said annoyed, rubbing her elbow that has hit the side pane of the stair-case railing.

"Sorry Bua..." he held his ear, "Maine aapko dekha nahi..."

Riddhima smiled and pulled his hands down, sitting in front of him. She saw a few toys lying on the stair, "Ye kya, tere toys yahaan aise stairs pe kyun pade hain. Inki wajah se koi gir gaya to?"

"Ye? Ye to main gaadi mein rakhne ke liye le jaa raha tha." Yash picked his toy-car.

"Gaadi mein? Kyun?" she asked.

"Hum sab aaj Vaibhav ke ghar jaa rahe hain na. Main uske saath khelne ke liye le jaa raha hu ye saare toys." he informed.

"Vaibhav ke ghar?" she reiterated while he shook his head vigorously, "Achchha." then she narrowed her eyes in confusion, "Sab jaa rahe hain matlab?"

"Matlab, sab... Dadaji, Dadi, Mumma, Papa, main aur..."

"Aur tu bhi..." Padma finished for him, while Yash grinned looking at her.

"Main? Mumma lekin main kya karungi wahaan jaake? Main to aaj tak unke ghar kabhi nahi gayi." she stood up to take the packet from her hand.

"Nahi gayi to kya hua, aaj chal." Rahul said walking out of the Kitchen.

"Lekin Bhaiya... aise kisi ke ghar achaanak jana achchha nahi lagta." she looked at Shashank, coming out with another packet. "Aur ye sab aap log kar kya rahe ho?"

"Hum, Atul-Anjali ke ghar jaa rahe hain." Muskaan pointed.

"Wo mujhe bhi samajh mein aa gaya Bhabhi, lekin ye sab kya hai..." she signaled towards around a dozen of baskets and packets.

"Ye sab? Ye sab gifts hain." Muskaan grinned.

"Gifts? Aur wo bhi itne saare? Koi special occasion hai kya? Aap log to pehle bhi bhot baar unke ghar gaye ho na, to phir aaj ye sab Gift kisliye?"

"Haan, lekin is baar hum teri aur Ar..." Rahul started only to be interrupted by Muskaan.

"Err... Haan to kya hua..." Riddhima narrowed her eyes, Muskaan continued, "Wo actually, hum pehli baar ek saath unke ghar jaa rahe hain na, isliye." she glared at Rahul to keep quite.

"Pehli baar ek saath jaa rahe ho?" She was confused, "Lekin usmein kya badi baat hai?"

"Badi baat ye hai, ki aaj tu bhi humaare saath chalegi. Kitne sawaal puchhti hai tu." Padma came and stood beside her.

"Mumma, main koi VIP hu kya?" she giggled lightly, then, "Aur waise bhi, main kya karungi wahaan? Mujhe to kisi ne invite bhi nahi kiya." she made a sad face.

"Kuchh din pehle jab hum log unke ghar gaye the, tab Aarti Bhabhi aur Maaji ne ne hum sabko saath bulaya tha lunch ke liye. Tujhe bhi saath laane ko kaha tha. Ab kya tere liya alag se invitation bhejna padega unhe?" Padma informed with a hint of lovable motherly scolding.

"Nahi." Riddhima said softly smiling.

Padma smiled at her, "To jaa ab jaake tayyaar ho jaa. Hum sab to kabke tayyaar hain. Jaa warna der ho jayegi." Riddhima nodded turning to the stairs, "Aur sun..." she turned to Padma once again, "Koi achchhi si dress pahaniyo, apne wo tent waale kapde mat pahan ke aa jana."

"What do you mean by tent waale kapde Mumma?" her mouth fell open, "Mere Kapde aapko 'tent' jaise lagte hain?" she frowned.

"Haan." Padma nodded, while Muskaan chuckled looking at her funny expressions. "In fact..." Padma looked at Muskaan. "...Muskaan bete, tu hi jaake ise dress nikaal ke de-de, warna ye buddhu kuchh bhi pahan ke chali ayegi."

"Ji Mumma..." Muskaan nodded getting up excitedly.

"Bhabhi araam se..." Riddhima came forward and helped her to walk upstairs.

Padma shook her head seeing them walk upstairs. Today finally her little girl was going to become someone else's 'Amaanat'.

Padma-Shashank have spoken to Dadi, Aarti and Omang and decided to do a small Roka ceremony, indicating mutual acceptance of the proposal from both families. Riddhima-Armaan didnt know anything about it, as the elders decided to do this all of a sudden. But since Armaan have already said yes, and even though Muskaan havent been able to talk to Riddhima about it, they were aware that this relationship is going to get tied no matter what.

If they had any doubts, all their doubts about Riddhima's liking towards Armaan have been cleared off in the past few days. Everyone in her family has noticed her worried state about Armaan. Ever so often, she would bring in the topic involving how tense Armaan looks these days, and how she she doesnt like him this way.

Riddhima was a soft-hearted girl who worried about everyone's problems and pain. But the way, she talk about Armaan, is different. Armaan is there in most of her talks, even if he has nothing to do with the topic they are discussing. Her innocent gestures told them that, unknowingly even she likes him a lot. Its just she doesnt think about Love, Marriage and topics of that sorts. Else, Armaan would have been the first person she had considered. So she was not to be worried about in this regard.

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On the other hand, in Armaan's house, he too slept like a log till late. He knew nothing about Riddhima and her family visiting them today. Anjali had told everyone not to tell him anything, so that they can surprise him. Previous night, Armaan played with Vaibhav till late night on his playstation. After Vaibhav slept, he worked for next few hours, and then sleep evaded him due to Riddhima's thoughts. So all in all, he didnt sleep till early morning.

"Aarti Bahu, sab tayyariyan ho gayi hain na?" Dadi asked as she saw Aarti coming in the living room, after instructing their house-maid.

"Ji maaji... aap chinta mat kijiye, maine sab dekh liya hai. Anjali bhi to hai help ke liye. Ab to bas un logon ka intezaar hai." Aarti smiled.

"Aur nahi to kya Dadi, aap nishchint rahiye. Agar kuch problem hui bhi to main sab dekh lungi, after all mere eklaute Dever ke rishtey ka sawaal hai..." Anjali giggled.

Omang pushed the button of the cordless phone, closing the call, "Maa, Shashank Bhaisaab ka phone tha, unhone kaha hai ki wo bas 5 minute mein nikal rahe hain, adhe-paune ghante (30-45 minutes) mein pahunch jayenge yahaan."

"Theek hai." Dadi nodded. "Anjali bete, Atul kahaan pe hai?"

"Pata nahi wo kahaan rah gaya Dadi. Maine use Vaibhav ko utha ke tayyar karne ke liye kaha tha. Ab dekho, dono baap-bete pata nahi kahaan gaayab hain. Main jaake dekhti hu kya kar rahe hain ye log." Anjali replied and walked back to her room.

~~~~~~~~~

Anjali didnt find them in her room. So she went to check Vaibhav's room. When she entered his room, her eyes widened with shock. Vaibhav's room was a mess. Besides his toys that usually lay on the floor all the time, today there were new companions with them. Atleast 5 pairs of tiny shoes laid around the bed, 6 pants, 4 shirts, 7 t-shirts, 3 little blazers, two jackets and 4 small wrist-watches too were lying on his bed. Atul was sitting at the corner of Vaibhav's bed with his hand on his chin and elbows resting on his knees.

Anjali held her head, "Hey Bhagwaan, ye sab kya hai?" she looked up to see Atul. Atul looked up at her and then again on the floor. She asked again, "Atul, ye sab kya hai? Saare room ka satyanaash karke rakha hua hai. Wo log bas aane waale hain, aur ye sab... Aur Vibhi kahaan hai?" Atul just sighed and raised his finger on opposite side of the room.

Anjali followed his pointer. There stood her son, Vaibhav, in front of the Mirror, combing his hair. Anjali's mouth fell open as he saw him wearing a light blue shirt, with one of his brown blazers and pants. A neck-tie hung around his neck long enough to touch his knees. "Vaibhav, ye sab kya hai?" she exclaimed.

Vaibhav turned to his mother and smiled, "Hi Mom. Main aaj apne aap tayyar ho raha hu."

"Apne aap..." Anjali said, "Lekin maine to tumhaare Papa ko tumhe tayyaar karne ko kaha tha na..." she turned to Atul, "Atul?"

"What? Main to aya tha ise tayyaar karne, lekin isne..." Atul shrugged.

Vaibhav interrupted him, "Haan Mumma, maine hi Papa ko kaha ki aaj main khud tayyaar ho jaunga. I am a big boy na. Aur dekho, I am almost ready. Bas ye tie mujhse nahi bandh rahi..." he held his long tie, "Aap ise theek kar do na..."

"Vibhi, ye kya pahna hai tumne, aur ye tie to Armaan ki hai na?" she asked.

"Haan, lekin aaj mujhe pahan ni thi, to maine le li..." he grinned.

"Ye Armaan ki tie hai, nikaalo ise..." she tried to take it out of his neck, but he held it.

"To kya hua Mumma, Chachu kuchh nahi bolenge. Main unhe baad mein bata dunga."

"Tumhaare liye bhot badi hai ye tie..." she took it out of his neck, "...aur tum aise bilkul achchhe nahi lag rahe ho, nikaalo ye sab." She removed his clothes.

Vaibhav kept whining as she changed his clothes once again. As soon as she finished, she shushed him and made him stand in front of the mirror. "Dekho, ab kitne achchhe lag rahe ho..." instead of looking at his image, he kept sulking folding his arms over his chest. Anjali glanced at Atul for help.

"Haan-haan, ab kitna handsome lag raha hai mera Sher..." Atul praised.

"Dekho, ab tumhaare Papa ko bhi tum achchhe lag rahe ho..." Anjali said.

"Papa ko achchhe lagne se kya hota hai, unhe kuch nahi pata. Minnie Bua kah rahi thi, ki ladkiyon ko smart aur decent gentlemen achchhe lagte hain..."

"Ladkiyon ko? Lekin tujhe kya karna hai is se? Aur aaj achanak tujhe ye sab kya sujha?" Anjlai asked mused at his comment.

Vaibhav slapped his head, "Offo, arey meri bhi to GF aaj aa rahi hai humaare ghar, so I have to look presentable..." Since his parents looked confused, he elaborated, "Arey, Angel... wo aaj pehli baar humaare ghar aa rahi hai na."

Atul-Anjali looked at each other, and then burst out laughing. A minute later, when they stopped, Anjali said, "Ooo, to ye baat hai..." Vaibhav shook his head happily, while she ruffled his hair. He held her hand and said, "Mumma baal kharaab mat karo mere..." Anjali laughed again at his antics.

"Lo jiski shaadi hai, use koi chinta hi nahi hai, aur ye... ise dekho aise tayyar ho raha tha, jaise aaj iski shaadi hai..." Atul chuckled.

"Shaadi? Kiski shaadi hai Mom..." Vaibhav asked.

"Tere Chachu ki..." Anjali said lovably.

"Kya? Chachu ki?" Vaibhav was surprised. "Chachu ki shaadi aaj ho rahi hai kya?"

"Nahi yaar, aaj nahi, thode din baad hogi uski shaadi." Atul said as he combed his hair.

"Achchha?" Vaibhav scratched his head, "Kiske saath?"

"Wo..." before Anjali could answer. Chatur knocked the door, informing them that Dadi is calling all of them downstairs.

~~~~~~~~~

Downstairs, Dadi, Aarti and Omang were discussing something.

Vaibhav came and almost jumped into Omang's lap. "Dadaji, main kaisa lag raha hu?"

Omang kissed his cheek and said, "Arey waah, tu to aaj ekdum Hrithik Roshan Lag raha hai yaar... kya baat hai, koi Girl-Friend wageraah bana li hai kya?" Vaibhav blushed hearing his Grandfather's comment, while all other laughed.

"Upar jaake dekhiye to pata chalega aapko is Hrithik Roshan ki kartut Dad. Saare room ko upar-neeche karke rakha hua tha is Hrithik aur uske Dad Rakesh Roshan ne." Anjali chuckled.

"Oye, tumhara beta Hrithik hoga, par main Rakesh Roshan nahi hu? I have hair ." Atul interjected styling his hair with his fingers. "Aur waise bhi, maine aisa kya kiya jo mujhe naye naam mil rahe hain?" He made a face, "Wo sab tumhaare laadle ka kiya-dhara hai. Usi ko dikhna tha 'Decent, Smart and Presentable'... huh." he mocked.

"Decent, Smart aur Presentable? Kyun Bhai, aisi kya khaas baat hai?" Aarti asked.

"Aaj iski GF jo aa rahi hai yahaan."Atul stressed on 'GF' grinning at Vaibhav. When Aarti couldnt understand, he continued, "...Riddhima. Ise uthaane ke baad jabse maine ise bataya ki aaj Riddhima ghar aa rahi hai, bas tabse iska naatak chalu tha... 'Dad, main khud tayyaar ho jaunga. I am a Big boy now... Dad, I have to look Decent, Smart and Presentable... Dad this, Dad that'... huh?" he mimicked Vaibhav again.

Vaibhav glared at him, "Aap bhot gande ho Dad, main aapse kabhi baat nahi karunga. Angel ko bhi bol dunga ki wo aapse baat na kare, aur-aur Chachu ko bhi."

"Arey tu iski baat ka bura kyun manta hai yaar..." Omang tried to pacify his naughty grandson, "...ye to bas aise hi kuchh bolta rahta hai." He turned to Aarti, "Arey haan, Chachu se yaad aya, ye Armaan kahaan hai? Aaj bhi bina bataaye kahin baahar to nahi chala gaya?"

"Nahi Dadaji, Chachu to apne room mein so rahe hain." Vaibhav informed.

"Ab tak so raha hai?" He checked the time, "Aaj ise kya hua? Un logon ke ghar aane ka time ho gaya hai, aur jiske liye ye sab ho raha hai, wo khud hi ab tak so raha hai." he shook his head sighing, "Ab sab mera muh kya dekh rahe ho? Jao jaake use uthao bhai."

Just then, they heard some commotion outside.

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Hey Friends,

I know I kept you waiting for episode 73 for ages. I have not been able to keep with any things in last few months. I apologize for being so late. But I will try to keep up with the story.