Posted:
Look at my OS here and you will see how I predicted Arnav's reactions. It's so on it that I am a little creeped. Look at the highlighted parts, you don't have to read it if you don't want to. I think I have started to think like the writer when it comes to the characters. Here's proof, you will see that I posted this OS days ago.
Khushi felt like an outcast in the Raizada household with no one to support her or even notice that she exists other than her fellow outcast, Jiji. They both had sympathizers in Akash jiju and sometimes Anjaliji but they too fell back when the wrath of Mami unleashed itself. What followed was pure humiliation. Sometimes even Arnav witnessed it without ever standing up for either of them.
Nani pretended like Khushi was invisible. Khushi was thankful that at least she treated Jiji well. Khushi tried to visit her family with Jiji and reason with them but they would have none of it. Even Jiji could not reason with Amma and Buaji. They still refused to see Khushi's face. Only Babuji seemed happy to see her when she came.
Khushi lived like a homesick, hollow shell in the cold, marbled mansion. She had nothing but an aching heart that broke and tore anew every time Arnav demeaned her. A heavy weight settled on her and she found difficulty breathing normally. It was an everyday fight against sinking into depression.
Arnav completely ignored her most of the time, leaving her to rot in the far corner of his room. Thankfully he spared her a blanket and pillow, threw them at her actually...on the night of their suhaag raat and she has been sleeping in her little corner ever since. She tried her level best not to interfere with his life and daily activities in the room. Not that he would have taken notice anyway. She felt he worked his level best to banish her from his sight. When he was there he worked on his computer, but most of the time he was overworking in the office. But if she did something wrong and made a little noise he would react immediately as if he was paying attention all along.
And to think that she deluded herself that the great ASR was falling in love with her, Khushi laughed at her own folly today at she lit her own little diya. She was only welcome after everyone left arti.
He hurt a lot inside, she would get hints of that but he never shared any of his thoughts with her. All she could decipher was that he was upset with her over something. In one of their more spectacular fights he shouted that he only married her for his Di. She put two and two together when she saw his changed behavior toward his Jijaji. Khushi realized that Arnav probably knew about Shyam's interest in her, if nothing else. He cared sometimes. He turned off the AC when he realized that she got a cold from it. She brought her food at beginning when she was too humiliated to join the family at the dinner table.
She lived in fear each day, worrying about running into Shyamji again and again. The sick man had still not given up pursuing her. Just the other day he approached her from behind in the kitchen only to be stopped when Jiji "accidentally" dropped hot kara (the drink that cures throat infections) on him.
Given the current situation with Anjaliji, she could not even tell Arnav about Shyamji's whole truth at the risk of overhauling everything in the house again. She dared not because she could not imagine how much more he would hate her than he already did if he heard she was engaged to Shyamji too.
She looked herself in the mirror now. Khushi Kumari Gupta, temporary Mrs. Arnav Singh Raizada. Unloved. HATED by her husband, orphaned by her family, ignored by her in-laws. The fake sindoor, the mangal sutra, the red sari, the small flower brooch all glittered back at her. Only her eyes did not. Her eyes were deep pools of sadness on a face that forgot to smile. Khushi was pulled out of her reverie by the shrill ringing of the phone.
She picked it up and they spoke for a good part of the hour.
NK: I thought the tape was destroyed when I came back Khushiji, otherwise I would have called sooner. But a video-grapher friend of mine was able to save the important bits. There is even a piece where Jijaji is seen plotting to kill Di.
Khushi: I can believe that he can sink that low.
NK: So...when do you want to do this?
Khushi: Anjaliji is on her last month. I suggest we wait until after the baby is born. Can you come to India then?
NK: Of course Khushiji, anything for you. I always knew you were being treated unjustly and anything I can do to change that will be my honor. I just wish I could show everyone the tapes right after I caught him in the act. That was my mistake...
Khushi: Thank you Nanneji. Please come then, I will have everything ready here.
A month later...
The Raizada family sat in the living room with the Gupta family admiring the new baby girl on Anjali's lap. Arnav watched from behind the couch by the main door.
Buaji: It is so good you were able to save the wedding video Nandkisore. Now we all can watch it as a family. What a night, the baby is home and now we can finally look back and enjoy Payal bitya and Akash bitwa's wedding for a change (she looked at Arnav who avoided looking her in the eyes).
NK: Yes, Buaji, it will be quite the night. I am glad I came just in time.
Anjali laughed: I could not be happier that you came to see the baby NK bhai.
NK: Congratulations again Di and...Jijaji of course (he looked at the twitching, constipated face behind him). Having a daughter is truly a blessing, isn't it? It changes a man's view about women, does it not Jijaji? New respect is gained.
Shyam started perspiring as he forced a smile at NK for the onlookers.
Arnav tapped his foot wondering when Khushi would show up.
Khushi came down the stairs just then looking stunning in a black sequin embroidered sari as Arnav watched in reluctant admiration. Her hair was open and occasionally blew in the breeze. Her eyes sparkled. She wore no jewelry but gleamed brighter than any woman he had ever seen.
Imagine Khushi in something like this...
The doorbell rang. Arnav nearly went to open it but Khushi gave him such a glare as she swept past to open it that he stopped midway. He felt happy seeing her in such spirits after a long time. Reluctant though he might be to admit it but he was softening toward her again. Beyond all her deception, she was still Khushi, the girl he had fallen deeply in love with. And no matter what she did he couldn't help loving her.
Khushi opened the door and in walked two police officers. Khushi welcomed them saying they were eagerly expected.
Arnav angrily: Khushi, what is this about? Why have you called the police? Are you not aware that police are not called to RM?
Khushi: I am aware of a great many things. But today they are here as my guests. (Arnav looked on confused as Khushi turned back to address the officers). Please take a seat, the wedding video is about to start, right Naneji?
NK: Yes, Khushiji. Please have a seat next to our Jijaji here officers (he said before Shyam could bolt), there is space on his side.
Anjali smiled and awkwardly made space for the officers.
Arnav suddenly realized that there was some kind of a plan to expose Shyam's truth. But he couldn't understand why Khushi would intentionally put her lover in trouble?
Anjali and the other family members looked on flabbergasted too.
Arnav grabbed a hold of Khushi's arm as she tried to follow the police officers in to the sitting area.
Arnav gritted out: Khushi please, I don't know what you are doing but Di is not well enough to take whatever it is you are plotting right now.
Khushi hissed back: There will never be a right time for this. She is out of danger now and we should not risk her life and the baby's anymore.
Arnav confused: What life risk? What do you mean?
Khushi: Let go (she pulled her arm away). You are as clueless as you ever were. By being quiet you have exposed her to danger more than anyone. Now the baby is at stake. And I want my justice!
Khushi took the remote from NK and pressed play: Forgive me Anjaliji, but I cannot wait any longer and neither should you be kept in the dark.
The video went on to show many scenes including Shyam's jealous looks to Arnav and Khushi, his evil plan to get Anjali into a car accident, his numerous utterances to get Khushi back, Khushi's full fight with Shyam on the terrace, and more.
Everything was clear now. The police officers cited the video as proof of Shyam's arrest and handcuffed him for premeditated murder attempts. Arnav stood rooted to the ground but his head was whirling. Khushi, his Khushi was innocent and Shyam an attempted murder! She didn't love him! Shyam had been the horrible fiance she said betrayed her and her family. How wrong he was!
The senior police officer then addressed Khushi: Thank you for the proof Mrs. Raizada. If you want to press deception charges and so on, you can come to the police station later.
Anjali was quiet, with floods of tears flowing from her eyes. Everyone else looked to Shyam and then Khushi.
Khushi looked around at the apologetic faces turned to her: It is Khushi and I will be visiting the police station soon, thank you officer.
The inspectors dragged Shyam away as he shouted for mafi from "Rani Shaheba," but thankfully she did not go to his aid. She sat there looking at her newborn, wiggling baby in her arms.
NK broke the silence: So now you all know the truth. Nanav had married Khushi because he wanted Shyam to stay with you Di...while you were pregnant, but it is high time that you all stop misunderstanding Khushiji for eloping with Nanav. (He said gravely) It is better if you explain Nanav as you forced her hand.
Arnav was shell shocked: I...I did force her. I threatened to break Payal's wedding again if she did not marry me (the Gupta family unanimously gasped). I ruined her life (his voice broke) and I never defended her against any of your accusations.
He looked at Khushi with renewed love and uttered her name in that broken voice as if the name came from his heart. Khushi's heart plummeted but she stopped herself before it went out to him.
Arnav: Khushi I didn't know (his eyes welled). I did not know the whole story.
Khushi glared back at him: You never gave me a chance to explain either! Not just you...no one in this room, not even my so-called family (she looked at Amma and Buaji) believed in me. Buaji you had so easily forced me into an engagement with Shyam giving Bauji's sake. How could you of all people think I would run off with Arnav Singh Raizada without consulting you all when I could easily lay down my life for you!? How could you ORPHAN ME AGAIN!? (She was screaming now, all the pent of frustration and injustice coming out of her like a hurricane).
Buaji looked away crying.
Arnav pleaded: How could I ever ask you to forgive me? Khushi...I...
Khushi: You cannot. Because I DO NOT FORGIVE YOU! AND I NEVER WILL! I have had enough Arnav Singh Raizada. I tolerated your torture from the day I met you. I curse the day it met you! You are like a bad omen that ruined me life anew. You trapped me for hours and released those tapes that forced me to move to Delhi. I took every form of torture you put on me and no one (she pointed her finger around) in this entire room even knows what you put me through.
Khushi: Di, you want to know what you dear, sweet Chotte did the first day at the office? He gave me a lecture of my low aukat and dropped me from the second floor! (All the pain and humiliation came back to her and her tears flowed freely, the man she loved only ever hated her).
NK looked at Arnav shocked. Arnav just looked on numbly.
Khushi: The tables are turned now Arnav Singh Raizada! It was your action that brought your vile Jijaji into my life. (She paused and took a deep, frustrated breath). You amir zadehs and your high morals (she laughed softly). You lectured me about gold-digging and you married your sister off to one? This is how well you know people? I had to take every manner of ill treatment imaginable from you even before you blackmailed me with Jiji's wedding. But all you grand, holier-than-thou lot only took your frustration out on me. Kyun Naniji, your Chotte is just na-samajh (immature), right? He's 8 years older than me but can't exercise his own brain. You thought I just danced off to marry him when he asked. Well, he isn't such a catch you know. I would not take him if he was the last man standing! (Arnav felt like she just shot him).
Amma interrupted: Khushi bittya...
Khushi whipped around: I am not your bittya! Don't you remember? You disowned me on my mock wedding day. You abandoned me when I needed you most!
Amma cried: I didn't know all this. I didn't know you sacrificed yourself for Payaliya.
Khushi cried: I was your daughter too Amma. You couldn't listen for once? You couldn't believe your chotti? Had you not known me long enough to believe that your little daughter would not do this to you? (Amma stared down at the ground, ashamed). I guess you were right about one thing. I am not your daughter, because you never managed to be my mother! YOU ORPHANED ME AGAIN! (She screamed shrilly).
OP and HP came into the living area hearing all the commotion. They stared in awe as Khushi Didi stormed about. Whipping revenge.
Khushi went and wiped away Babuji's silent tears: No one really loved me like you and Jiji Babujiii...(she hugged him).
Mamji: Khushi listen...
Khushi: It's Phaati-sariii Mamiji!!! What, you are out of fresh taunts for me and Jiji today? Kyun bolti bandh ho gayi (cat got your tongue)? My poor Jiji... (she looked at Payal with Akash in the corner) took a lot from you just for taking my side. But she put faith in me with no proof and was a true sister to me (she went and hugged Payal as she cried for Khushi).
Arnav was speaking barely above a whisper: I am so sorry...Khushi...I am really very...
She took a deep breath and looked at Arnav with renewed vigilance: Don't utter my name! I forgave all your injustices against me when I thought you had come to know me. But what did you do but mentally torture me again just when I put my faith on you? What did you give me other than heartbreak? You destroyed my innocence, my happiness, ME! I have turned into this evil wretch because of you. You think just saying sorry will make it all wash away!?
Arnav's eyes brimmed with unshed tears: I don't expect you to forgive me.
Khushi: Good! Then this will not be a surprise to you.
She smashed a stack of papers on the table around which everyone sat. Arnav, Naniji and Anjali jolted sound and the baby started crying. Anjali quickly quietened the baby, trembling under Khushi's wrath.
Arnav knew what they were before he saw them. But reading the one word only drove the knife further home.
Khushi felt a cold relief wash over her, she almost smiled: That's right. Divorce papers. Sign it. Now. We have no lack of witnesses. Looks like the family will be enjoying a lot more than a wedding video today Arnav. Jiji and Naneji? You will sign as my witnesses. (NK hesitated). Don't worry Naneji, no one in the house will blame you. You did not know about the papers...and besides, I think these two families are done playing the blaming game for a while.
Jiji: Khushi please...think again.
Khushi: There's nothing to reconsider Jiji. I have served my time. Arnav...why don't you tell them that you had already put a time limit on this joke of a marriage?
Arnav just stared at the divorce papers like it was his death sentence. Khushi bent down and signed the papers with a flourish. Naniji uttered a squeak.
Khushi turned around murderously: You were wrong Naniji, I did not make a mockery of marriage, your pyare Chotte did. And I no longer want to be part of his sham.
Anjali: Khushiji please, my Chotte is very sorry...please...it can't be over like this.
Khushi: Shaadi ek pavira rishta hai (marriage is sacred), right Anjaliji? You said that to me that day. You accused me of making a mockery of it when your husband was going around openly flaunting it (Anjali blushed). I am not blaming you of hypocrisy Anjaliji, you did not know better. But your brother and I are not husband and wife, we never have been. There's nothing here TO BREAK!!! (Arnav took a step back as he felt Khushi take his wounded heart in a vice). This marriage can't be over if it never was. We were broken from the start. I do not intend to spend my life living like a second-class citizen in this house or in that room. This is nothing but a sham and now I demand my freedom! Jiji, Naneji sign it now please (she pointed at the papers).
They quietly did as Arnav stood by the table shaking in his shoes.
Khushi: What are you staring at? Sign the papers Mr. Amirzadah! Don't worry, I didn't ask for a penny from you.
Arnav looked at Khushi stunned, he was not even thinking that.
Arnav: I would give my life for you if you just asked Khushi.
Khushi: Oh!? How generous of you. Generosity runs in your veins. Like when you threw me to the corner of your room with a blanket. At present I only require the signature if you please.
Arnav's hand shook as he signed. He really felt like he was giving his life away. No money mattered, he would have given her anything she asked for. His heart was breaking but he realized that Khushi deserved to be free of him. He could not stand in the way and make her miserable if she hated him so much. She was completely in the right but his heart still yearned for his wife. He realized he never stopped loving her. His heart was overwhelmed with all these feelings as he signed a contract like no other in his whole life.
Khushi then forced Mamiji and Mamaji to sign as his witnesses.
Khushi: Congratulations Mamiji, you are now free of me. Congratulations Patti Dev. And the biggest congratulations to me! (She fought against the war inside her asking her little heart to forgive and rush into his comforting arms but she went ahead knowing he didn't love her like she loved him). I am free now. Khushi Kumari...NO! Just Khushi. Khushi, the orphan!
Jiji looked at her laughing like an avenging spirit but she knew that inside Khushi was hurting more than everyone in this room put together. She knew that Khushi craved bonds, love and affection more than anyone. She sought it all her life. Setting herself free of everyone and divorcing not only Arnavji but Amma and Buaji was killing her inside.
Khushi confronted Arnav and took his hand. He looked at her small, trembling, pale hand on his pulling it to her maang and before he could react she swiped away at the only color on her - the blood-red sindoor. Arnav sucked in his breath in shock.
Khushi: We are done now Arnav Singh Raizada. You were right, this sindoor and this mangal sutra mattered to me once (she grabbed the necklace). Remember how you gave these to me? Now you can have it all back. Now it means NOTHING!!! YOU MEAN NOTHING (she tore the necklace away from her by the locket and the beads went flying around the room, their noises deafening).
Anjali's scream chilled: NAHI!!! (To her it was symbolic of Chotte's life).
Simultaneously, Arnav felt the spirit leave him as he fell to his knees. But no one except Babuji saw the soul leave Khushi's sparkling eyes too. She let go of Arnav's numb hand.
Khushi went and touched Babuji's feet: Ashirvad dijiye Babuji (give me your blessing). I want to go out into the world knowing I have your support (he put a shaking hand on her head).
Khushi's body wanted to break. Everything inside her screamed like someone had ripped her apart. She silently called on DM and mustered all her strength to pull herself up and walk out of the main door as tall as she could. It was as if DM carried her. She felt everyone around her disappear, only Arnav was there on his knees in her conscience. She walked past his bowed form.
NK ran after her.
OP looked at HP, eyes the size of saucers.
HP: Hell haath no fury like a woman scorned.
By the way, Part 2 of this is coming soon. Hopefully some more parallels between this and the story. The writers claim not to read the OSs but I am not so sure.
Khushi felt like an outcast in the Raizada household with no one to support her or even notice that she exists other than her fellow outcast, Jiji. They both had sympathizers in Akash jiju and sometimes Anjaliji but they too fell back when the wrath of Mami unleashed itself. What followed was pure humiliation. Sometimes even Arnav witnessed it without ever standing up for either of them.
Nani pretended like Khushi was invisible. Khushi was thankful that at least she treated Jiji well. Khushi tried to visit her family with Jiji and reason with them but they would have none of it. Even Jiji could not reason with Amma and Buaji. They still refused to see Khushi's face. Only Babuji seemed happy to see her when she came.
Khushi lived like a homesick, hollow shell in the cold, marbled mansion. She had nothing but an aching heart that broke and tore anew every time Arnav demeaned her. A heavy weight settled on her and she found difficulty breathing normally. It was an everyday fight against sinking into depression.
Arnav completely ignored her most of the time, leaving her to rot in the far corner of his room. Thankfully he spared her a blanket and pillow, threw them at her actually...on the night of their suhaag raat and she has been sleeping in her little corner ever since. She tried her level best not to interfere with his life and daily activities in the room. Not that he would have taken notice anyway. She felt he worked his level best to banish her from his sight. When he was there he worked on his computer, but most of the time he was overworking in the office. But if she did something wrong and made a little noise he would react immediately as if he was paying attention all along.
And to think that she deluded herself that the great ASR was falling in love with her, Khushi laughed at her own folly today at she lit her own little diya. She was only welcome after everyone left arti.
He hurt a lot inside, she would get hints of that but he never shared any of his thoughts with her. All she could decipher was that he was upset with her over something. In one of their more spectacular fights he shouted that he only married her for his Di. She put two and two together when she saw his changed behavior toward his Jijaji. Khushi realized that Arnav probably knew about Shyam's interest in her, if nothing else. He cared sometimes. He turned off the AC when he realized that she got a cold from it. She brought her food at beginning when she was too humiliated to join the family at the dinner table.
She lived in fear each day, worrying about running into Shyamji again and again. The sick man had still not given up pursuing her. Just the other day he approached her from behind in the kitchen only to be stopped when Jiji "accidentally" dropped hot kara (the drink that cures throat infections) on him.
Given the current situation with Anjaliji, she could not even tell Arnav about Shyamji's whole truth at the risk of overhauling everything in the house again. She dared not because she could not imagine how much more he would hate her than he already did if he heard she was engaged to Shyamji too.
She looked herself in the mirror now. Khushi Kumari Gupta, temporary Mrs. Arnav Singh Raizada. Unloved. HATED by her husband, orphaned by her family, ignored by her in-laws. The fake sindoor, the mangal sutra, the red sari, the small flower brooch all glittered back at her. Only her eyes did not. Her eyes were deep pools of sadness on a face that forgot to smile. Khushi was pulled out of her reverie by the shrill ringing of the phone.
She picked it up and they spoke for a good part of the hour.
NK: I thought the tape was destroyed when I came back Khushiji, otherwise I would have called sooner. But a video-grapher friend of mine was able to save the important bits. There is even a piece where Jijaji is seen plotting to kill Di.
Khushi: I can believe that he can sink that low.
NK: So...when do you want to do this?
Khushi: Anjaliji is on her last month. I suggest we wait until after the baby is born. Can you come to India then?
NK: Of course Khushiji, anything for you. I always knew you were being treated unjustly and anything I can do to change that will be my honor. I just wish I could show everyone the tapes right after I caught him in the act. That was my mistake...
Khushi: Thank you Nanneji. Please come then, I will have everything ready here.
A month later...
The Raizada family sat in the living room with the Gupta family admiring the new baby girl on Anjali's lap. Arnav watched from behind the couch by the main door.
Buaji: It is so good you were able to save the wedding video Nandkisore. Now we all can watch it as a family. What a night, the baby is home and now we can finally look back and enjoy Payal bitya and Akash bitwa's wedding for a change (she looked at Arnav who avoided looking her in the eyes).
NK: Yes, Buaji, it will be quite the night. I am glad I came just in time.
Anjali laughed: I could not be happier that you came to see the baby NK bhai.
NK: Congratulations again Di and...Jijaji of course (he looked at the twitching, constipated face behind him). Having a daughter is truly a blessing, isn't it? It changes a man's view about women, does it not Jijaji? New respect is gained.
Shyam started perspiring as he forced a smile at NK for the onlookers.
Arnav tapped his foot wondering when Khushi would show up.
Khushi came down the stairs just then looking stunning in a black sequin embroidered sari as Arnav watched in reluctant admiration. Her hair was open and occasionally blew in the breeze. Her eyes sparkled. She wore no jewelry but gleamed brighter than any woman he had ever seen.
Imagine Khushi in something like this...
The doorbell rang. Arnav nearly went to open it but Khushi gave him such a glare as she swept past to open it that he stopped midway. He felt happy seeing her in such spirits after a long time. Reluctant though he might be to admit it but he was softening toward her again. Beyond all her deception, she was still Khushi, the girl he had fallen deeply in love with. And no matter what she did he couldn't help loving her.
Khushi opened the door and in walked two police officers. Khushi welcomed them saying they were eagerly expected.
Arnav angrily: Khushi, what is this about? Why have you called the police? Are you not aware that police are not called to RM?
Khushi: I am aware of a great many things. But today they are here as my guests. (Arnav looked on confused as Khushi turned back to address the officers). Please take a seat, the wedding video is about to start, right Naneji?
NK: Yes, Khushiji. Please have a seat next to our Jijaji here officers (he said before Shyam could bolt), there is space on his side.
Anjali smiled and awkwardly made space for the officers.
Arnav suddenly realized that there was some kind of a plan to expose Shyam's truth. But he couldn't understand why Khushi would intentionally put her lover in trouble?
Anjali and the other family members looked on flabbergasted too.
Arnav grabbed a hold of Khushi's arm as she tried to follow the police officers in to the sitting area.
Arnav gritted out: Khushi please, I don't know what you are doing but Di is not well enough to take whatever it is you are plotting right now.
Khushi hissed back: There will never be a right time for this. She is out of danger now and we should not risk her life and the baby's anymore.
Arnav confused: What life risk? What do you mean?
Khushi: Let go (she pulled her arm away). You are as clueless as you ever were. By being quiet you have exposed her to danger more than anyone. Now the baby is at stake. And I want my justice!
Khushi took the remote from NK and pressed play: Forgive me Anjaliji, but I cannot wait any longer and neither should you be kept in the dark.
The video went on to show many scenes including Shyam's jealous looks to Arnav and Khushi, his evil plan to get Anjali into a car accident, his numerous utterances to get Khushi back, Khushi's full fight with Shyam on the terrace, and more.
Everything was clear now. The police officers cited the video as proof of Shyam's arrest and handcuffed him for premeditated murder attempts. Arnav stood rooted to the ground but his head was whirling. Khushi, his Khushi was innocent and Shyam an attempted murder! She didn't love him! Shyam had been the horrible fiance she said betrayed her and her family. How wrong he was!
The senior police officer then addressed Khushi: Thank you for the proof Mrs. Raizada. If you want to press deception charges and so on, you can come to the police station later.
Anjali was quiet, with floods of tears flowing from her eyes. Everyone else looked to Shyam and then Khushi.
Khushi looked around at the apologetic faces turned to her: It is Khushi and I will be visiting the police station soon, thank you officer.
The inspectors dragged Shyam away as he shouted for mafi from "Rani Shaheba," but thankfully she did not go to his aid. She sat there looking at her newborn, wiggling baby in her arms.
NK broke the silence: So now you all know the truth. Nanav had married Khushi because he wanted Shyam to stay with you Di...while you were pregnant, but it is high time that you all stop misunderstanding Khushiji for eloping with Nanav. (He said gravely) It is better if you explain Nanav as you forced her hand.
Arnav was shell shocked: I...I did force her. I threatened to break Payal's wedding again if she did not marry me (the Gupta family unanimously gasped). I ruined her life (his voice broke) and I never defended her against any of your accusations.
He looked at Khushi with renewed love and uttered her name in that broken voice as if the name came from his heart. Khushi's heart plummeted but she stopped herself before it went out to him.
Arnav: Khushi I didn't know (his eyes welled). I did not know the whole story.
Khushi glared back at him: You never gave me a chance to explain either! Not just you...no one in this room, not even my so-called family (she looked at Amma and Buaji) believed in me. Buaji you had so easily forced me into an engagement with Shyam giving Bauji's sake. How could you of all people think I would run off with Arnav Singh Raizada without consulting you all when I could easily lay down my life for you!? How could you ORPHAN ME AGAIN!? (She was screaming now, all the pent of frustration and injustice coming out of her like a hurricane).
Buaji looked away crying.
Arnav pleaded: How could I ever ask you to forgive me? Khushi...I...
Khushi: You cannot. Because I DO NOT FORGIVE YOU! AND I NEVER WILL! I have had enough Arnav Singh Raizada. I tolerated your torture from the day I met you. I curse the day it met you! You are like a bad omen that ruined me life anew. You trapped me for hours and released those tapes that forced me to move to Delhi. I took every form of torture you put on me and no one (she pointed her finger around) in this entire room even knows what you put me through.
Khushi: Di, you want to know what you dear, sweet Chotte did the first day at the office? He gave me a lecture of my low aukat and dropped me from the second floor! (All the pain and humiliation came back to her and her tears flowed freely, the man she loved only ever hated her).
NK looked at Arnav shocked. Arnav just looked on numbly.
Khushi: The tables are turned now Arnav Singh Raizada! It was your action that brought your vile Jijaji into my life. (She paused and took a deep, frustrated breath). You amir zadehs and your high morals (she laughed softly). You lectured me about gold-digging and you married your sister off to one? This is how well you know people? I had to take every manner of ill treatment imaginable from you even before you blackmailed me with Jiji's wedding. But all you grand, holier-than-thou lot only took your frustration out on me. Kyun Naniji, your Chotte is just na-samajh (immature), right? He's 8 years older than me but can't exercise his own brain. You thought I just danced off to marry him when he asked. Well, he isn't such a catch you know. I would not take him if he was the last man standing! (Arnav felt like she just shot him).
Amma interrupted: Khushi bittya...
Khushi whipped around: I am not your bittya! Don't you remember? You disowned me on my mock wedding day. You abandoned me when I needed you most!
Amma cried: I didn't know all this. I didn't know you sacrificed yourself for Payaliya.
Khushi cried: I was your daughter too Amma. You couldn't listen for once? You couldn't believe your chotti? Had you not known me long enough to believe that your little daughter would not do this to you? (Amma stared down at the ground, ashamed). I guess you were right about one thing. I am not your daughter, because you never managed to be my mother! YOU ORPHANED ME AGAIN! (She screamed shrilly).
OP and HP came into the living area hearing all the commotion. They stared in awe as Khushi Didi stormed about. Whipping revenge.
Khushi went and wiped away Babuji's silent tears: No one really loved me like you and Jiji Babujiii...(she hugged him).
Mamji: Khushi listen...
Khushi: It's Phaati-sariii Mamiji!!! What, you are out of fresh taunts for me and Jiji today? Kyun bolti bandh ho gayi (cat got your tongue)? My poor Jiji... (she looked at Payal with Akash in the corner) took a lot from you just for taking my side. But she put faith in me with no proof and was a true sister to me (she went and hugged Payal as she cried for Khushi).
Arnav was speaking barely above a whisper: I am so sorry...Khushi...I am really very...
She took a deep breath and looked at Arnav with renewed vigilance: Don't utter my name! I forgave all your injustices against me when I thought you had come to know me. But what did you do but mentally torture me again just when I put my faith on you? What did you give me other than heartbreak? You destroyed my innocence, my happiness, ME! I have turned into this evil wretch because of you. You think just saying sorry will make it all wash away!?
Arnav's eyes brimmed with unshed tears: I don't expect you to forgive me.
Khushi: Good! Then this will not be a surprise to you.
She smashed a stack of papers on the table around which everyone sat. Arnav, Naniji and Anjali jolted sound and the baby started crying. Anjali quickly quietened the baby, trembling under Khushi's wrath.
Arnav knew what they were before he saw them. But reading the one word only drove the knife further home.
Khushi felt a cold relief wash over her, she almost smiled: That's right. Divorce papers. Sign it. Now. We have no lack of witnesses. Looks like the family will be enjoying a lot more than a wedding video today Arnav. Jiji and Naneji? You will sign as my witnesses. (NK hesitated). Don't worry Naneji, no one in the house will blame you. You did not know about the papers...and besides, I think these two families are done playing the blaming game for a while.
Jiji: Khushi please...think again.
Khushi: There's nothing to reconsider Jiji. I have served my time. Arnav...why don't you tell them that you had already put a time limit on this joke of a marriage?
Arnav just stared at the divorce papers like it was his death sentence. Khushi bent down and signed the papers with a flourish. Naniji uttered a squeak.
Khushi turned around murderously: You were wrong Naniji, I did not make a mockery of marriage, your pyare Chotte did. And I no longer want to be part of his sham.
Anjali: Khushiji please, my Chotte is very sorry...please...it can't be over like this.
Khushi: Shaadi ek pavira rishta hai (marriage is sacred), right Anjaliji? You said that to me that day. You accused me of making a mockery of it when your husband was going around openly flaunting it (Anjali blushed). I am not blaming you of hypocrisy Anjaliji, you did not know better. But your brother and I are not husband and wife, we never have been. There's nothing here TO BREAK!!! (Arnav took a step back as he felt Khushi take his wounded heart in a vice). This marriage can't be over if it never was. We were broken from the start. I do not intend to spend my life living like a second-class citizen in this house or in that room. This is nothing but a sham and now I demand my freedom! Jiji, Naneji sign it now please (she pointed at the papers).
They quietly did as Arnav stood by the table shaking in his shoes.
Khushi: What are you staring at? Sign the papers Mr. Amirzadah! Don't worry, I didn't ask for a penny from you.
Arnav looked at Khushi stunned, he was not even thinking that.
Arnav: I would give my life for you if you just asked Khushi.
Khushi: Oh!? How generous of you. Generosity runs in your veins. Like when you threw me to the corner of your room with a blanket. At present I only require the signature if you please.
Arnav's hand shook as he signed. He really felt like he was giving his life away. No money mattered, he would have given her anything she asked for. His heart was breaking but he realized that Khushi deserved to be free of him. He could not stand in the way and make her miserable if she hated him so much. She was completely in the right but his heart still yearned for his wife. He realized he never stopped loving her. His heart was overwhelmed with all these feelings as he signed a contract like no other in his whole life.
Khushi then forced Mamiji and Mamaji to sign as his witnesses.
Khushi: Congratulations Mamiji, you are now free of me. Congratulations Patti Dev. And the biggest congratulations to me! (She fought against the war inside her asking her little heart to forgive and rush into his comforting arms but she went ahead knowing he didn't love her like she loved him). I am free now. Khushi Kumari...NO! Just Khushi. Khushi, the orphan!
Jiji looked at her laughing like an avenging spirit but she knew that inside Khushi was hurting more than everyone in this room put together. She knew that Khushi craved bonds, love and affection more than anyone. She sought it all her life. Setting herself free of everyone and divorcing not only Arnavji but Amma and Buaji was killing her inside.
Khushi confronted Arnav and took his hand. He looked at her small, trembling, pale hand on his pulling it to her maang and before he could react she swiped away at the only color on her - the blood-red sindoor. Arnav sucked in his breath in shock.
Khushi: We are done now Arnav Singh Raizada. You were right, this sindoor and this mangal sutra mattered to me once (she grabbed the necklace). Remember how you gave these to me? Now you can have it all back. Now it means NOTHING!!! YOU MEAN NOTHING (she tore the necklace away from her by the locket and the beads went flying around the room, their noises deafening).
Anjali's scream chilled: NAHI!!! (To her it was symbolic of Chotte's life).
Simultaneously, Arnav felt the spirit leave him as he fell to his knees. But no one except Babuji saw the soul leave Khushi's sparkling eyes too. She let go of Arnav's numb hand.
Khushi went and touched Babuji's feet: Ashirvad dijiye Babuji (give me your blessing). I want to go out into the world knowing I have your support (he put a shaking hand on her head).
Khushi's body wanted to break. Everything inside her screamed like someone had ripped her apart. She silently called on DM and mustered all her strength to pull herself up and walk out of the main door as tall as she could. It was as if DM carried her. She felt everyone around her disappear, only Arnav was there on his knees in her conscience. She walked past his bowed form.
NK ran after her.
OP looked at HP, eyes the size of saucers.
HP: Hell haath no fury like a woman scorned.
By the way, Part 2 of this is coming soon. Hopefully some more parallels between this and the story. The writers claim not to read the OSs but I am not so sure.
Hindi TV Shows
Anupamaa
