Arhi FF For You Forever Td 7 Td 8 link on pg1 - Page 61

Sorry for the terrible delay... there was so much confusions regarding some part. still I havent posted.. I am sure I can post it by Tuesday evening.. Till then enjoy this.

PART 39 A

No one would have the urge to disturb the scene pictured infront of them lest if they hadn't thought about the time constraint for the day's important activities. Sitting on the top of the kitchen slab he was taking a dip in the roti and moved it near to her lips. She could be seen as embarrassed with the act and a reddish colour creeping her cheeks with embarrassment. All she did was turning around, sides, through the windows making sure they don't have any spectators watching them. Arnav smirked at her anticipation coupled with fear. With the help of his palm he moved her chin to face him. He gestured her to open her mouth to have the roti from his hands. Her blush deepened not by his romantic gesture but by the unnamed love he had for her.

Arnav: Khushi.. What are you looking at? Have this.. He slowly made the free hand open her jaws to feed her.

The instant gush of embarrassment marked her cheeks again while tilting her head sideways that's when she saw those three heads peeping in through the door giggling. She jolted in shock when she spotted her three friends on the door but Arnav who was unaware turned her face towards him and was about to feed the next morsel. Quick enough to chew the first morsel and gulping down Khushi stopped his hand gesturing through her eyebrows to look past her near the door.

Arnav tilted his head to find her friends giggling at them .. He couldn't help but planned to tease the girls a bit before he left. He smiled at the flustered Khushi who was dying of embarrassment. Not more than a second he took to pull the entire form of Khushi on himself. He could hear four different gasps in quick succession. Three from the far end and one near his heart. He further motioned her hand to take the roti from the plate and took near his mouth. He savoured the morsel with content licking her fingers which surely made her weak below her knees. Unable to handle this much Khushi was controlling herself from fainting on his arms especially when he kissed her fingers after taking the roti in.

Arnav: Khushi don't think I would leave any job unfinished.. I will make it up tomorrow for whatever happened in your room.. He said hoarsely making Khushi drown in his husky voice.

He looked past Khushi from the shoulder where he found two friends trying to pat the other friend Kavya who had half fainted on the floor due to hyperventilation. Khushi turned to see what Arnav was watching with amusement. Kavya slowly pulled herself up after Shreya had pretended to pat on her cheeks. Khushi meanwhile struggled to get out his hold to accompany her friends. Her friends let out a giggle making fun of her while Arnav finished his roti.

Abhay came along pushing Swetha who was standing on the way swift on his walks towards his friend. Swetha manage to hold herself from falling down and shot an angry glare at her fianc who was walking past not even bothered to look at her.

Abhay : Arnie.. Come lets go.. its your haldi. We have too much to finish today. Di is ready to bath you in haldi.. He said excitedly hurrying up Arnav.

Swetha moved behind him and patted his shoulders to turn back. He shrugged his shoulders not willing to turn back and concentrated on pulling Arnav. The second time he got the pat made him turn around to witness a fuming Swetha with her hands on the hip. He smiled happily as if looking at his fianc after a long time and went on to hug her infront of them. That surely made Kavya faint for the second time.. Swetha shrugged his arms out of embarssment realizing herself that she couldn't snap back at him for pushing her before.

Abhay : Hey sweetheart.. Don't be shy.. Your friends are all used to this.. See I can predict that from Khushi bhabhi's face. He teased looking at Khushi who made an O shaped mouth.

Abhay had to dodge the small cup flying on his way from Khushi for making that remark.

Arnav : Abhi.. I guess we should leave before you get hospitalized for an kitchen attack by the girls.We have to get back home.. Lets leave. He said dragging Abhay from the kitchen.

Before he moved out of the kitchen he turned around to spot his fianc waitng for him to show his face again. He smiled and winked at her.

Arnav : Bye Khushi.. See you tomorrow. Bye Girls.. He said plainly making her blush even more with the thought of tomorrow the day when she would be totally his.

Khushi's heart felt as if one part of her is missing from her as he moved out. She turned behind to face her friends who were carefully watching her expression..

Khushi : What ?

Shreya : Kal hamere Dilwale Dulhaniya Le jayenge.. and you are going to leave all of us tomorrow. Shreya said mockingly but the effect was surely turning out to have a bigger impact on Khushi as her smile slowly faded at the thought.

Her face turned into horrified expression thinking about her marriage. The pang of seperation though it's not as intense as it is meant to be but the physical presence missed by her parents and her friends. Swetha could understand her worries and hugged her tight to give her strength.

Swetha : Khushi ... Its time to enjoy.. Now be happy and don't think about anything else..

Khushi nodded in agreement as it was after a big trauma that things have fallen into place. Nothing should stop her from enjoying this unneeded happiness on the most important day of her life. She smiled at Swetha and her friends who inturn bear hugged her.

************

Haldi was a simple affair at both the houses. Relatives and close friends graced the occasion with their presence and blessings. Raizada family had arranged their hall with lots of haldi which scared Arnav the most. Dressed up in plain white Kurta he came down to perform the ritual. He got aghast seeing the small bowls filled with Haldi water. He had seen how his sisters had been filled with haldi but to his memory it was just a paste where people smear it on their face. This looked weird to him and scrunched his eyebrows giving a questioning look to his di.

Anjali: Chotte.. Don't give me such looks. Today is our day.. You should listen to our orders or else I would stop talking to you. She said with a cute pout eager to make her brother agree to this.If there was something that Arnav would resist it would be this haldi smearing on his face. He disliked it since he had the notion that haldi was to be applied only on women.

Arnav: Di.. whats your plan? I don't see this anymore entertaining for me. Looking at the bowls I feel some sort of cheating would be implemented by my sweet friends. He looked around him surrounded by the battalion- his friends brother and jiju ready to attack him with their ammunition the haldi.

Shyam : Come on Saale sahib.. this is just nothing. We are not disturbing you until the ladies are done with their formalities. Shyam mocked him with a wink which earned a detesting look from Arnav on the complicated meaning his statement bore.

Akash : Di.. its getting late.. Get started..Akash hurried up his sisters and Nani thereby dragging Arnav across the hall and seated on the middle where a small wooden stool was placed. Arnav gulped down his fear looking at the haldi and smiled cheekily at his sisters who were coming to sit infront of him with a grin.

Lavanya who had sat facing him leaned on his ears making sure that no one watches her.

Lavanya : Bhai.. how are you going to call Khushi now? Difficult time I must say. She bit her lips naughtily.

Arnav : Wrong impression on your bhai sister.. Just move your eyes towards my right ear instead of left. He held a smirk of success.

Lavanya was bowled when she saw the tiny Bluetooth attached to his right ear and his glimmering eyes smiling at her questioning her about his intelligence.

Lavanya: You are just too smart bro ! Enjoy..

Lavanya left him in peace when she found him dialing Khushi's number from the pocket and hiding it behind. Mami initiated the ceremony by applying haldi on him only on the face when he had pleaded through his eyes to decrese the quantity in her hands. Later Anjali took on the charge. She didn't pay attention to his looks. The maximum amount of haldi she could apply was smeared all over his face hands and legs. He threw look of fake anger which made her giggle looking at her cute little brother getting angry at her. She missed the in between messages passed by him through his call and finally caught his blue tooth which was the reason behind his monologues. In the midst of the music played behind Anjali wasn't really attentive to his talks. She seized the opportunity to tease him more by removing the blue tooth from his ears and talked to Khushi.

Anjali : arre... wah I didn't know you both didn't spare haldi ceremony too bhabhi.. How is everything going on there? She squealed in excitement like a child getting a candy..

Khushi on the other side was sitting on the edge of her cot dressed up in white salwar waiting for her mother's call for the function. She got embarrassed to core when she heard Anjali's voice suddenly. She started smiling to think about the situation where Arnav had to go through.

Khushi : Di... I am sorry.. haldi will start in 10 mts so I thought I would attend Arnavji's call.. She stretched her words in embarrassment of getting caught.

Arnav: Di.. enough.. you can talk tomorrow.. Let me continue.. He said snatching the blue tooth from her hand and placing it on his ears. Khushi blushed hearing her Arnavji's irritation for disturbing their private time. She continued to hear what was going at the other end.

Anjali : aww. How rude chote? I am not going to allow this.. I will call Nani now.. Nani...She shouted on the top of her voice scaring Arnav and in the process Khushi too. Khushi couldn't think of getting more embarrassed with Nani involved in this.

Khushi : Arnavji.. I am going to hang up the call. You enjoy the function bye.. She hurried to cut the call and sighed to have spared from Nani. As she had predicted her friends barged into her room to take her to the hall for the haldi. She threw the mobile behind her pillow and left with them.

********

After all the ladies made sure that they hadn't left a small portion on Arnav with Haldi Shyam came forward smiling and looked at his saale sahib who was irritated with the dry haldi on him. He leaned on him to enquire about the experience of Haldi bath.

Shyam : Saalesahab now that they are done with their part shall we move to the next stage?

Arnav got shocked hearing the next stage statement from his jeejaji. His face had innumerous questions to be answered by that statement. Shyam didn't make a delay in making Arnav get up from his seat. He pulled Arnav to the other end of the room which had been extended to a small work area outside.. Arnav was confused more at this jijaji's actions and stopped him midway..

Arnav: Whats the next stage Jeejaji? Are you going to wash my haldi? No thanks. I can do that myself. He sounded appreciating his jeejaji for his efforts of getting him till the work area but the next reaction from someone behind jolted him in fear.

Akash, Akshay, Tanish, Abhay and Kunal who were coming behind him had splashed the haldi water from behind drenching him totally. It was sudden action that made Arnav get his reflex and move away from the splash. Shyam made his deliberate effort to catch his saalesahab pinning his hands behind him which would resist him from running. The gang came forward for their action to be precise. Arnav caught his breath in between the splash but was surely enjoying the fun. They were giving him some seconds to catch the breath and that's when Arnav slided from Shyam's hand running into the hall where the family was present. He was chased by the gang who was ready to even mess up the hall for this fun. Arnav ran behind his naani with his wet clothes for defence.

Arnav : Nani.. Please tell them. This is not fair. What sort of a ritual is this ? How did you agree for this? He complained to Nani like a small kid which made Nani and the whole family chuckle at him.

Abhay : Chotte.. you just had haldi bath.. this is Haldi holi. Ladies get a chance to do all the rituals why can't we men have a sport in marriage? Being the smart dashing hot bachelor of the town's marriage we ought to get the special privilege of starting such a ritual. This will help your face glow in your wedding competing with Khushi bhabhi. Abhay winked at Arnav taking the maximum advantaege of his chance to mock his friend.

Arnav : Dammit.. you are going to get the revenge for this next week on your haldi. Arnav warned Abhay with a hope that Abhay would back off from this attack on him.

Abhay inturn made matter worse when he came running and catching Arnav by holding him from behind clutching his nape. Nani moved aside from the fun while others got to splash all the water on him. Laughs & giggles fluttered around the hall creating an ambiance of happiness in marriage. Nani wiped her tears looking at her grandson playing with his friends and sisters happily. Finally God had heard her prayers. She wished this happiness sustain through out.

*****

Garima took Khushi from the hall to her room after having finished all the haldi smearing on her. She had a constant blush on her face whenever she had to face the tease from her friends who didn't fail to take her Arnavji's name all the time. She was more emotional while Sashi came forward to apply the haldi on her. After Sashi had moved apart all the ladies including her friends took charge and applied haldi.

She sat down infront of the mirror looking at her haldi filled face. She couldn't control her blush thinking of the importance the elders were mentioning about the haldi. She wondered how her face glow would appeal tomorrow that too what would be her Arnavji's reaction to this. Just as what she wished her mobile started to ring startling her from her thoughts. She took her mobile to find her Arnavji on the call. A smile crept in her lips how he could think of calling her just as she thought about him.

Khushi : Hello Arnavji ???? Her questioning tone raised suspicions in Arnav as to what made her shocked with his call ?

Arnav : Were you expecting my call or thinking about me? He asked simply as he was wiping his head with towel after his bath.

Khushi's jaw circled an O shape quickly but she wasn't the one who would admit failure so easily.

Khushi : No.. It was just because you called at this hour.. What are you doing there?

Arnav sighed thinking about what had happened in the evening.He stopped wiping the head throwing the towel and went on to settle himself on his couch with just the shorts.

Arnav : Don't ask me Khushi. There was a haldi conspiracy against me. I was dipped in haldi paste and water.. Still I can feel like I am looking yellow.. Disgusting. He said irritatingly wiping the invisible haldi from the neck and looking at his palm.

Khushi laughed at her heart's content thinking about his situation. She could understand what he must have faced with those fun loving crazy family.

Arnav: Don't laugh Khushi.. Here I am seriously irritated.. Do you find it as a joke? You know they had splashed so much of haldi water on me after this paste. I can smell it still on me. I had tried to bath for the third time but still I can feel the odor.

Khushi: Arnavji.. Don't be a kid. Its just haldi.. a way good for health. It has a nice fragrance something very natural that will cool your body. Just enjoy this one day in our lifetime.. I like it. She showed her excitement in her words with the aim of irritating him more. She didn't know the after effect of her statement would turn against her.

Arnav : aww. If you had told me before I wouldn't have bathed.. I didn't know haldi will be of so much use for tomorrow. He bit her lips thinking of her reaction hearing such a shameless statement from him. He was getting quite active in teasing her these days just to make her comfortable with him and avoid the awkwardness if it had existed.

Khushi thought a bit but as soon as she realized the real meaning of those words her yellow coloured cheeks turned to red like a litmus paper changing colour. Her Arnavji was so much caring her blush which she knew should be stopped somehow otherwise he would be taking advantage of her silence and continue his teasing just for the sake of witnessing her red cheeks and nose.

Khushi : Arnavji.. I am hanging up the call.. I have to take bath.. She made a face to make him aware that she sounded irritated with his tease.

Arnav : ah.. I would be very much pleased to help you in that.. Shall I ? He released his next tease with the hope of getting his Khushi's blush explode all over her face.

Khushi : Arnavji.. This is too much.. I can manage myself. Anyways I will see you from tomorrow how you are going to tease me like this.. I will make sure you get good punches from me. She throwed back her fake anger at once.

Arnav : oh .. relax baby.. I was just joking.. But you are right. I can't tease you over the phone from tomorrow. You will be with me. This is the last call at night we are going have before our marriage. Tomorrow this time you would have entered my life totally Khushi. The thought of getting into one's life with complete authority. I would miss this phone calls though. We are proceeding to a next level from our courtship to marriage. Feels proud that we have had a lot of memories to cherish and pass on to our children. Thank you baby for becoming a part of me in my life. The last time I can call you only as my lover. I love you Khushi..

Those words sank her deep into emotions filling her entire self going weak on her knees. Never she had such a feeling of reverence for an emotion. Each and every word was true to both their senses. Their last call the most cherishing memories of 6 months they ever had coming to an end. Next day they both are entering into a new life with new authority. All these days they were waiting for the moment to near but in reality when it comes closer there is an urge for an extension of this courtship period which had been the most sweetest phase of their life. They had seen through themselves how much they can love each other, support each other, care for each other without even a commitment through a ring. It was their hearts that commited, their souls that binded, their self conscience that merged which effected in such a cute relationship.

Khushi brushed her tears falling down her cheeks which cleared the yellow paint from her cheeks leaving behind only some streaks of that colour. Arnav could feel her tears flowing with a slight sniff though he knew she was strong enough to outpour her emotion so swiftly. He sought only one way to make her smile.

Arnav : Are you crying that you are going to suffer in the hands of a fool from tomorrow? He chuckled at his own statement thinking that it would bring a smile but instead an instant fury cropped up breaking his head off.

Khushi : Arnavji.. Can you please stop saying that? You are sometimes very casual when I am serious. I was getting emotionally attached to all our memories for these months and couldn't just part with those in a moment. You chose to mock at me with this opportunity? Khushi retorted back for his childishness.

Arnav: Ok. I surrender madam.. I am sorry. Vaise I have got one important point from this the first mark of indifference in us. I tease you when you are serious.. hmm. Point to be noted Ma'm. I will surely take care of it henceforth. My intention was just to lighten you up and boost your spirits. He said in apologetical tone making Khushi smile of his craziness.

The talk extended for a while till they got the warning bell from Buaji who was requesting her to wash her haldi. Arnav had forgotten about his appearance when Abhay came in. He didn't leave a chance to wink at Arnav who was talking to Khushi just wearing shorts on his cot. Arnav understood the meaning and shoved him off through his hands to leave the room.

Arnav:.. Khushi.. this would remain with us for life time in our joys, sorrows and sharing. I love you Khushi. He stated plainly with the deepest feeling of oneness.

Khushi : I love you too Arnavji.. She reciprocated with a different intensity altogether with the new hope & beginning entering into their lives which would tie them with a faltering future which only promises the acknowledegment their true love for each other.

************

Marriage

The melancholic music of shehnai reverberated the marriage hall invoking the enthusiasm among the people present for the marriage. The beautiful floral decorations clearly adorning the hall with their impeccable beauty cooled the eyes of the guests. The aroma of mouthwatering sweets and food stuff tickling the nostrils of the food lovers present in the hall creating croaking sound in their intestines.

Sashi Gupta walked past the crowd through the hall to check up on the important guests who were attending the marriage. Garima and Madhumati too got involved deeply in tretating their guests. Nandkishore helped in several activity across the marriage hall where the help was needed. His silence was a bit weird for Garima for being the only son of the family arranging their only daughter's marriage. She purposely called him closer to make him feel that he is not isolated in his own sister's marriage.

Garima : Nandkishore. Beta.. can you check if Khushi wants something to drink ? She has kept fast from today morning. She might need something now. She cant eat anything till the rituals are over. She pleaded from her eyes freezing him on the spot from his mother's request. He knew Khushi wouldn't pay any attention to him but he couldn't deny his mother's request which made him nod and drag himself to the bride's room.

********

Lush green Lehenga contrasting deep Red choli wrapped with the double coloured veil with beautiful ornaments adorning her neck, forehead and the ear the princess was sitting on the edge of the chair arranging her bangles in sequence which would be symmetrical on both the hands. Her fair skin, the complimentary bridal dress colour with her dark mareeon mehndi complemented her giving her a look of a fairy who have come down to earth. Her hazel eyes glimmered in joy, beautified by the help of black kohl which gave a highlight to her eyes , her permanent red nose and cheeks developing more colour which made it easy to avoid the any artificial colours on her face.. Her eyebrows neatly shaped in to accommodate the maangtika which enhanced the beauty of the bride. Her luscious lips coloured by a slight tinge of pink colour added to the final touch of the emobidment of beauty. The hair was tied into a bun adorned with beautiful jasmine flowers whose fragrance filled the entire room.

Her hands trembled in nervousness while her face plasted a smile that was visible to the array of her friends with Misha who were busy in doing their self make up as if they were to be presentable than the bride. She slided down her bangles which she had sequenced and looked at her wrist hanging in air. Those tingling bangles gave the voice of a perfectly soothing jingle which coordinated with her anklet. Those were the two sounds which distinguishes a bride from others in a marriage.

Swetha after her finishing touches of her mascara turned to look at the nervousness of her bride friend who was focusing her sight on the nearby chair as if something attracting her. Instead of joy she could see a mixture of emotions on her face which is obvious for a bride on her marriage. She had juxtaposed her nervousness with the curiosity, excitement, ultimate joy and a pang of separation.Swetha had no way than to comfort her friend as the other girls were busy in their own grooming.

Swetha : aww my pari is looking so gorgeous today.. Let me ward off the evil. Saying this Swetha took the kohl in her eyes pasting it on the back of Khushi's ear on the hairs.

Khushi looked up at Swetha when her eyes expressed the unnamed concern and tension.

Khushi : I am scared Swetha. I don't know why I feel this way.. I am like shivering now.

Just as she reached to hold Swetha's hand she heard a knock. Swetha got up to check who it was. She was surprised to see NK standing on the door. Without much hesitation she asked him to come in. NK was very much embarrassed to enter into their room. He remembered the good old days when they had been good friends with Swetha, Shreya and Kavya.. Just his stupidity lost all his ties and good releations in his life.

Not giving much attention to her he entered to find Khushi sitting on a chair in her bridal attire. NK was overwhelmed to see his sister princess dressed up so beautifully. The moment he saw KHushi looking at him and giving him an angry glare he felt pale as if he was feeling himself to be cold to get such a reaction in shame.

Khushi stood up abruptly and turned her face away not able to meet up her brother's eyes which would further depress her. She hadn't expected him to appear before her after the condition she had put forth to him. Despised by his unforgivable acts she herself had troubled so much to show this hate on him. She wasn't the one who would do something so adamant but Lavanya's matter did put her off so much that she was no way to bend down to her brotherly feelings on him.

NK : Are you feeling hungry ? Amma asked me to check if you need anything to drink or eat ? Its not good to stay hungry for the whole day especially now if the ceremony starts it would be difficult for you to have anything in the middle. He plainly asked with concern to his sister as he was terribly apologetic too. He knew there was no use of turning his apology to her as that would mess her emotions at present when she shouldn't be thinking of these at this happiest juncture of her life.

Khushi : Swetha.. I don't want anything. I can handle myself. She snapped back with the intention to make him understand her disinterest towards his concern. She herself was feeling the pain but she couldn't let aside her moral belifs and rights which came infront before her family.

As NK had clearly deciphered the reaction of his sister he was about to move out when all of them heard the sound of baraat reaching near the gates. Khushi's friends with Misha stroded down to welcome the baraat leaving behind Swetha with Khushi for her company.

KHushi clutched Swetha's hand more briefly in nervousness when Swetha came near her in excitement. NK stepped down towards the hallway as he is to be there to welcome the groom's family.

*********

Golden colour sherwani with matching golden beads embroidered near the heart area of the dress, accompanied by a golden pajama and a sandal Arnav Singh Raizada replaced the name of Prince in true sense. His clean shaved face with a neatly gelled hair, glimmering eyes, cuteness personified smile never needed any jewel to beautify him literally. But to the much insistence of his sisters he had a thick bracelet worn over his wrists with his usual ring on his ring finger and a Rado watch on his left hand which was presented by his brother and sisters. He had resisted the idea of pagoda which had extened it so much down but had to agree finally that he would be wearing it during the rituals.

The Raizadas had arranged for a decorated car instead of a horse as a special request by the shy groom Arnav who felt it would be awkward to sit on a horst for baraat. Even after several attempts of tradional advices from Nani, he was hell bent on rejecting those. His friends and colleagues along with Akash and Payal , Shyam and Anjali accompanied the car with the occasional dance they were interested of. Madhu had safely accommodated her place on Arnav's lap with Nani sitting beside him to give him the much needed support.

As soon as the car came to halt Sashi and Garima came forward while Buaji's eyes searched for NK. She caught him coming slowly and then pulled him near her to welcome the groom. The relatives, friends and all the guests crowded around the families where Arnav came out of the car directed by his mamaji to the marriage hall. Mamiji had lavishly spent more for her make up than her own son owing to the love she had for her Arnav bitwa than her own son Akash.

Akash and Abhay acoompanied him followed by the rest of his family and friends. Garima took the arti of the groom who was smiling at them affectionately. His daughter's prince had arrived finally to take his princess from his house. Every daughter in house is a princess, the princess is getting married and leaving tomorrow with her Prince there would be a vaccum that he would feel leaving behind an eerie of silence in the house. He hugged Arnav possessively thanking him for his generosity and acknowledging his love for his daughter. Arnav too hugged Sashi whom he had considered after his father in the position who is going to acquire that authority formally in some hours.

All of them got into the mandap while Arnav's eyes were searching for his sweetheart. He knew it was foolish of him to believe that she would be present before her in the mandap without the intimation of the pandit. Abhay leaned on his ears to tease him that he wont be able to see Khushi until he bribes the pandit for hurrying up. Arnav stamped him on his feet for the stupid idea and turned back to smile at the guests who were looking at him with an open jaw. He was made to sit at the mandap with the Panditji starting to chant some mantras which had to follow.

Sashi moved aside while one of his friend caught him to comment about Arnav.

Friend : wah Sashiji.. You are really lucky to get a beautiful damaad, and that too working in the States. But have you checked about his thoroughly? As far as I know such handsome kids have no clean history with ladies.

Sashi knew the jealousy brewing up in everyone. He smiled at the thought of this one factor which would make his family proud among his friends.

Sashi : Praveen.. For me my Son in Law is a gem of a person. I have understood him that he will pamper my daughter more than me.. what more do I want ? He said with a finality of discussion stating he had confidence in Arnav no matter what.

Sashi moved towards the hall while Panditji called up bride's brother to do the rituals. NK moved near Arnav and didn't even expect Arnav to look at him. He spotted Lavanya who was standing beside her bhai but she didn't even bother to look at him. He could see her happiness for her brother's marriage than anything else. If anything could have killed him at the moment, he thought. Not even a second after he thought he was seen to be pulled by Shyam who made him stand near Arnav. With a sense of guilt running through his spine he looked up into Arnav's eyes with pleading eyes. Astonished to find he saw a slow smile creeping into Arnav's lips acknowledging his brother in law. NK was stumped at this reaction and before he could respond Abhay came in with the pagdi placing it on his hands.

Abhay : Take this bhai. Place this on your jeejaji. He teased him to make the mood light as there was nothing else to get so serious. He saw the remorse in NK's eyes which had made everyone forgive him to some extent.

NK took it in his hand and placed above Arnav's head while Arnav bend down a little to fit it on his head. NK felt the happy tears clouding up when he saw Arnav's family really making him one among them after forgetting and forgiving his sins.

********
Moments later much to his desperation he heard Panditji calling out for the bride. His heart started to pace thinking about the most awaited time nearing. A sudden momentum increased the heart beat pounding itself to have a competition. He could feel her coming down the stairs with this reflex action of his. The same feeling whenever he sense her presence though it had been only for 4 times. He tilted his head slowly to get the clear picture of his bride coming down. As a matter of fact his heart jumped till his mouth halting its action for a moment not able to digest the ethereal beauty nearing him to fill the seat beside him. She is not only going to fill the seat but fill the place beside him forever. For him Forever.

Khushi's heart started to beat erratically right from the stairs.. She had bend her head down in a typical bride style while she did notice through the corner of her eyes where her Arnavji was. The more she was nearing to him the more she could spot him clearly the more her heart started to pace its movements. She was stunned by the hotness of her fianc who had sat on the mandap with immense curiosity of her arrival. She felt butterflies hovering in her stomach as if it had caused acidity due to her fast. She knew her nervousness is making her mad. Composing herself she moved beside him to take her seat before the holy fire when suddenly a deep blush crept on her cheeks when she felt her bare elbows touched the fabric of his sherwani. It was like an electricity passing through her while he hadn't even touched her. She closed her eyes and sighed in to control herself from losing her control. Arnav controlled his chuckle with the effect he had noticed on her face after she sat.

Sashi and Garima was called in by the Panditji for the Kanyadaan. Sashi's eyes welled up while performing the kanyadaan as it was symbolically entrusting his daughter in safe hands. He felt his hands squeezed by Arnav who looked at him with a smile assuring that he would never break his trust and would take up his daughter's responsibility more than his life. A smile lit up in confidence on Sashi's face which was acknowledged by Arnav with his eyes. Khushi could feel certain emotional exchange between the two. She could only smile at their compatibility of a Son In Law Father in law even before the marriage.

The families crowded around the bride and groom for the exchange of garlands. Khushi took the help of Swetha to take up the garland and faced her Arnavji. A bright twinkle shone in his molten brown eyes which dragged her physically towards him. Arnav got the garland from his friend Abhay and tried to place on Khushi's shoulders when he saw Shyam and Akash lifting her up with a challenge put forth to Arnav.

Arnav : Jijaji, Akash???? He exclaimed in surprise when he saw them changing their sides and posing a challenge to him.

Shyam : Saale sahib now Khushi is my sister and Akash's saali. So we have this right to support her. Come on .. Let me see how you face this challenge.

Akshay : Jeejaji our boss is no less. We will show you who we are... Akshay came forward with Kunal who were well built and lifted Arnav in one go.

Arnav looked at the challenging face of Khushi immediately dodged the garland which fell on her neck. He winked at her success while she blushed. It was Khushi's turn now. Instead of lifting him his sister Lavanya and Anjali took up the job of pulling him back thereby inviting Khushi near them to put the garland. Khushi's face flushed with deep red when the sisters were teasing them to come more near and suddenly pushed Arnav on her making her jolt out of shock. Arnav steadied himself faster and bend his head to make it easier for Khushi to wear it on his neck. All of them clapped in unison looking at the cute couple easily giving up their challenge.

Both of them were seated on the mandap infront of the fire.Panditji started to chant the mantras while he asked Anjali to tie the knots of their shawls as a bandhan. Anjali excitedly moved taking Lavanya along to tie the knot as they had did for Akash and Payal. AKash and Payal smiled at each other remembering about their marriage. The to be couple Abhay and Swetha looked at each other remembering how it would be on their marriage. NK smiled at the happy face of his sister. Arnav who could see NK standing aloof from everyone instructed Abhay to make him stand near him. NK at first hesitated but Arnav made sure that he stands near by him till the marriage is done. Lavanya glanced at him once when she could spot the remorseful eyes of NK who stood behind her bhai. For her there was nothing with NK. Not any revenge or any concern. She considered him only as Khushi's brother and the rest she had erased from her life long back. She was snapped out of the thoughts when Panditji called in for time of Mangalsutra. Arnav took the mangalsutra in his hand with pride and looked at Khushi. He could feel his heart beating faster correspondingly to the ones beating beside him. He could see Khushi's heart pounding in the same pace but she had kept control of it by looking down in shyness.

Escorted with the musical shehanai, the whispering crowd who neared the mandap for clear vision, the erratical heart beats, the unmatchable smiles of the family with their whole hearted blessings and wishes and finally their souls which were jumping in excitement to be one, the two love birds entered into the new life of a couple with Arnav tying the mangal sutra on her neck. His hands shivered, her neck did reciprocate with the shiver, her eyes flickered, his eyes reciprocated with the same flicker. Both had scanned this image in their mind to be safely registered and stored for their lifetime.He took the pinch of vermillion to smear the partition of her forehead symbolically marking her as his. Their eyes finally met for some moments after the realization dawning on them they are tied for life. Khushi smiled in contentment and relief. He assured her back with his eyes. An assurance for life which conveyed the feeling of I will be there "for you forever!"

Families took their time to congratulate the couple and showering their kisses and hugs to the newly wed couple. Panditji asked them to stand up for the pheras. Arnav started to walk around the holy fire which bound them into one followed by Khushi. Seven rounds indicating their seven promises /vows infront of the God of Fire which symbolized the completeness of marriage.

After the pheras and other rituals the couple got the blessings of the elders. Nani was overwhelmed and emotional. She kissed her grandsons forehead and his wife's too. Sashi and Garima were sharing happy tears,they blessed the kids before taking them in an embrace. Buaji, Mamaji & mamiji and other elders blessed them too. Arnav searched for Payal's parents and took their blessings with Khushi which overjoyed them for the mark of his respect. Mamiji though wasn't so liking it but it was finally Arnav's call now. No one can question him.Anjali and Akash with all his friends and her friends hugged them. It was the turn of NK but Khushi turned her face not meeting his eyes. Arnav understood Khushi's cold attitude. He smiled at NK and pulled him for an hug which amazed the whole crowd including Khushi. NK was feeling at the top of the world when he found Arnav had forgotten all his sins.

NK : I am sorry Jeejaji.. I am terribly sorry. He pleaded through his tears while Arnav soothed him by caressing his back.

Arnav: I thought you would wish me instead of apologizing NK.. oops I mean Saalesahab in my jeejaji's words. He stated casually to lighten up the mood while the whole family chuckled. Khushi could only smile at his generosity she didn't make any expression of forgiveness to her brother yet.

**********

The friends took their time in sitting around the couple. Khushi could feel his elbow brushing hers occasionally though it wasn't deliberate. He turned to smile at her while she stole glances at him occasionally. He could sense her glancing at him secretly finally leaned over her ears to talk.

Arnav: Congratulations wifey.. Don't blush too much I wont mind flicking your red nose infront of the public. I have the authority now .. He smirked while challenging at her. A round shaped jaw with increasing redness was the result of his smirk. She was about to utter something when Anjali cleared her throat.

Anjali : Aww my bhai and bhabhi are so much desperate to talk isn't it? She winked at the couple who inturn made a face.

Shyam came behind hugging Anjali and teased her.

Shyam : Rani saheba.. we were like this too after our marriage.. why cant you give them space atleast.

All of them started to laugh at the blushing Anjali. She hit Shyam's arm to take it from her and moved near Arnav and Khushi with the food plate.

Anjali : Here is your dinner. Now you both feed each other and mind you this is the only plate which you both have to use. She warned them.

Khushi took the plate from her. When she met him looking curious on what she would feed him first she bit her lips naughtily and took the pickle to feed him. His eyebrows went wide looking at her mischief. Buaji came in between and hit her elbow for taking the spice first.

Buaji : Titaliya.. what are you doing? How can you feed the spice first time ? Take some sweet and feed Arnav babua..she whispered in Khushi's ears.

Khushi couldn't control herself from giggling when she saw the horrified expression of Arnav while the rest of them were laughing at him. She thought it wasn't fair to tease him further and tried to take the sweet after wiping off the pickle from her fingers.

Arnav caught her wrists in protest. His signature smirk made the crowd gasp in surprise. He took her hand near to his lips and licked her fingers with the spicy pickle. He didn't block the eye lock while Khushi's face had turned red to shock and blush. He turned towards buaji who was keeping her hand in her head as if a ship has sank.

Arnav : Buaji. Its not necessary that if she feed me spicy at first my love will decline. For me the person who feeds me has a sweet heart which is more than enough.He explained Buaji who inturn smiled in contentment for such a cute damaad for her titaliya. She warded off evil from both their heads by crossing her hands.

Arnav: Buaji if you feed me even a pickle I would be happier too. Because you are so sweet. He said placidly while Buaji blushed at his comment.

Abhay: Arre stop it Arnie she is already diabetic..he peeped in earning a smack from Buaji for teasing her. All of them laughed heartily while Khushi gestured him to feed her as its his turn.

Arnav turned towards the plate and took a small piece of jalebi to feed her. There was an awe among the crowd for such a sweet gesture as everyone knew Arnav is feeding Khushi's favourite jalebi.

Anjali : See Khushi bhabhi.. My chote fed you your favourite. He will always look after your likes and choices first. I promise you. She winked at Khushi who inturn nodded in agreement. No one could notice her happy tears which were threatening to flow from her eyes except Arnav. After making sure that they had no specific attention Arnav caught her left hand and squeezed. She looked at him for the reason while he smiled pleasantly to take her emotions easy.

*****

Sashi and Garima had felt the vacuum across their house moments after Khushi left their house. They still remembered how their daughter cried during bidaai and how Sashi had to console her. Sashi dwelled in thoughts of his daughter when she thanked him for loving her so much like a princess from birth. Sashi felt a tug when Khushi bend down to take his blessings biding a good bye in her gestures. She had literally crushed Garima and Buaji in a hug not able to ponder upon the moments that she would be spending without anyone of them. She could never think of a day without her mother's food, her buaji's advices, her father's love and her family in her house. But this day she had to get separated from her favourites. Nani had taken the responsibility of consoling Khushi as suggested by Arnav. He felt the elders would make more impact in consoling her.

Nani : Khushi bitiya.. Don't worry. You can visit your house any time. It's just a matter of few minutes travel. Don't get depressed. Nani consoled with her words wiping her tears. She knew Khushi is not so childish to understand the situation. It was just the intense situation which every daughter has to face during their bidaai. Sashi thanked Nani through his eyes for taking the effort.

Khushi had taken note of NK standing by the side. She moved near him involuntarily but as soon as he saw her he pulled in for a hug though Khushi didn't reciprocate.

NK : I am sorry chotti.. I will miss you.. He broke the hug in utter dejection and moved away from the premises. She just stood blankly as if digesting what had happened between them. She could feel the remorse in her brother which was tearing his heart into pieces.

Sashi and his family saw their daughter peeping outside the car window to bid them bye when the car was retreating from the marriage venue. The ladies poured their heart out but the immense satisfaction of finishing this marriage without any obstacle was more than their sadness.

********

Raizadas had set up for a warm welcome of their elder bahu. The aarti was taken by Payal who welcomed her Jethani with pure love and affection. Khushi hugged her for having got her sister back after a long time. Now since both are going to be in one house Payal felt like someone from her family is going to accompany her. Mamiji found this hugging session a little irritating but didn't bother much as she had much important job of clearing her make up was pending. Arnav and Akash showed faces and smiled looking the reunion of sisters. Abhay came in between Arnav and Akash teasing them for drooling over their respective partners infront of their family..

The Grihapravesh ceremony was a sleekly arranged by Anjali. Arnav had been demanded to lift Khushi and enter their house as per tradition. Khushi felt the blush coming back to her cheeks. She turned to look at Arnav who was ready for the pose with a lopsided smile. She closed her eyes in embarrassment when his arms cricled her waist and swooped her easily as if she was weightless. His hands on her waist had really given her a shrill through the spine and the other hand holding her legs. She remained closed her eyes till Arnav placed her softly on the floor. The whole family was laughing at Khushi's naivety praising her cheeks which displayed the embodiment of coyness.

The post marriage ritual made the couple weary which was evident from Arnav's yawns as he leaned on Abhay's shoulders while sitting for the game of searching the ring from the milk. Abhay could feel his friend's weariness and whispered in his ears..

Abhay : Arnie.. don't tell me you are tired and going to sleep after this dammit..This is not the time to sleep. Abhay cautioned him which made Arnav jerk from his posture in shock and stare at Abhay.

Arnav : Abhi... Arnav groaned in frustration as he found Abhay snake an arm around his shoulder to pacify him.

Anjali meanwhile signaled both of them to be quiet. She slided the ring into the bowl and gestured the couple to search for the ring. Lavanya was in full support of her bhabhi with cute Madhu sitting by Khushi's side while Arnav had his men army by his side. NAni and Anjali supported both of them to compete faster. Arnav dropped his hand into the bowl while his eyes sought solace in hers. She moved her arms in motion inside the bowl in search of the ring occasionally brushing with his arms. She saw him raising an eyebrow suspicious about her winning this as he had already caught the ring in his palms hiding it. Khushi knew that he was playing with her devised a plan to get the ring from him. They both had lost their selfless nature when it came to a love competition between both of them. She slowly caught his closed palms and started to tickle him.Arnav knew she was a lioness who wont accept her defeat easily and decided to play along till she stops tickling. The next trick from Khushi did work effectively. She pouted in accepting her failure and the next moment she saw him handing over the ring to her palms inside the bowl. She took her hands out with the ring while the family clapped declaring her as the winner. He battled his eyelids for once to show her that her success is his own success.

************

The wait of her Arnavji was absolutely killing her .. She was sitting on the bed in the same position which Anjali had left her in.Abhay had blocked Arnav along with Shyam and Akash as in teaching him. Arnav had to call up their respective partners to get relieved from them. Abhay was left behind and Arnav made a chance to call Swetha from her mobile and handed over to Abhay to continue his love talks to Swetha. He sighed after his hardwork of sending everyone back otherwise he wouldn't be let inside his room where Khushi was waiting for him.

As soon as she felt the door click open she felt the dhak dhak with the thought of her Arnavji entering their room. Her heartbeats pace increased feeling him nearby and she was only waiting for him to utter something to make her feel better. He slowly came near her sitting on the couch and opened her veil. He could feel her heart pacing, her face flustered with redness. Her hands were almost shiverring and she felt him holding it in his which made her open her eyes and look at him.

Arnav: Khushi?? Why are you so cold? He touched her forehead to check if she was alright and she passed a weak smile to him

Khushi: No.. Arnavji.. I am fine.. Its just I .. Khushi shivered and stumbled for words which Arnav could clearly understand.

Arnav: Khushi. Relax... Are you feeling uncomfortable? I guess you should change this attire and jewels. Arnav calmed her down cupping her cheeks. He could feel the innocence in her and he never wanted her to get awkward with him any moment.

Khushi : Its ok Arnavji.. I am fine.. She relaxed at his touch but Arnav wasn't ready to accept her words.

Arnav : No way.. Go and change into something comfortable. Get up.. He picked her up by pulling her arms from the cot and moved her near the dressing table.

Khushi sat herself on the chair looking at his reflection in the mirror as he was intensely watching her removing the jewels. She found it difficult to remove her necklace when he came behind her taking charge. Khushi felt goose bumps when he moved her hands aside and tried to open the necklaces. He saw her red nose through the reflection and smirked. He himself kneeled down to assist her with some ornaments which she wouldnt mind him doing..He was trying to find the ways to make her free from this nervousness and thought of cracking some jokes.

Arnav : uff.. You have the entire Bangles of Lucknow on your wrists. I guess this might take one day to get removed Khushi. He mocked to see her smile and chuckled.

Khushi hit his arm slightly for teasing her and as usual her mood was back to normal. She smiled as she saw her Arnavji slowly taking her bangle. He looked so cute when he made weird expressions whenever he found it tight to remove from her wrists. Arnav saw her drooling over her husband and thought to tease her seriously which would make her blush.

Arnav : Do you know these tinkling bangles would surely disturb everyone so its better to remove it . He winked at his own statement and could see her turning red in embarrassment.

Khushi : Arnavji.. I can take care the rest. Thank you so much . She cut short his teasing as she knew he was purposely doing it to see her red cheeks.

She took out a night dress and entered the washroom while he noded his head in amazement of her innocent wife.

He had changed himself to his night suit and was checking his office mails where he had received tons of wishes from his colleagues. He was replying them back when he heard the door opening. The moment she came out , he kept his mobile aside and passed her a weak smile.. For him, she was looking more prettier in these simple clothes than the ones she wore before.. Seeing her gulping down her tension of whats next now, he tried to handle the situation once again.. He got up from the bed making her froze at the spot she was standing. Walking towards her , he pulled the Towel from her hands and placed it aside.. He was totally lost in her but he tried to control himself from getting intense at her.

Arnav : So Mrs.Arnav Singh Raizada... welcome to my world officially umm.. infact now its our world... our small world. You me and our joy, happiness, fights, cute pouts, sadness, enjoyment and everything.. .I have one more life within me now.

He rested his forehead on hers flicking her nose with his. She felt her blush creeping up with the mention of Mrs.Arnav Singh Raizada.. She has finally entered into his life with much authority she posessed. Her string around the neck comprising the black beads showing her the power of her Arnavji on her. The red vermilion on her forehead making the world announce that she is Mrs.Arnav What more can bring a proud smile on a girl's face after marriage.. She is getting into a more responsible position. A family is dependent on her soulmate is dependent on her.. She had to satisfy everyone accordingly. Her thoughts made her feel dizzy and she sought solace in his hard core form wrapping and protected safely by his strong arms.

Arnav smiled into her hair resting his chin thinking about their life changing from this day.. A beautiful feeling of someone who has officially become his forever.

Arnav : Khushi.. I love you so much.. His grip tightened as his husky voice invoked the musical rhythm in those words creating a soothing havoc in her.

She broke the hug and looked into his molten eyes with anticipation. Soon the anticipation rested in oblivion as his lips started to claim hers in the most polite manner making her comfortable to each and every step he proceeded. She never knew it will be so easy for her tonight after this kiss from his side.. He was really making sure she didnt feel being forced for something she wasnt expecting from him so soon.. It was a new feeling for both of them. The first feeling of a kiss. They felt like teenagers who were devouring their passion for the first time after proposal. Never ever had they felt so blessed and perfect as in their arms. Arnav broke up first fearing it would make Khushi little dizzy. He saw her already drowned in their simple kiss which had an enchanting effect on her. He smiled at the catching breath and kissed her forehead. She opened her eyes to witness his smile who was contended with this simple kiss.

The next moment they could find themselves settling on the cot comfortably without breaking their eyelocks. What have they experienced is beyond their imagination, they hadn't expected it to be so beautiful . Arnav couldn't resist the increasing passion which created havoc inside him to proceed further. He traced his index finger from her forehead slowly moving down where by he reached her lips again. The fingers found time to grace her lips slowly creating ripples of desire inside her. She couldn't hold back her chest which was heaving heavily on the effect of his touch. The next moment she could feel his hands moving behind her neck clutching her nape tight. He traced his lips in the same way as his fingers did a little while ago from her forehead slowly dragging down through the bridge of the nose and resting itself in her luscious petals. This time it was passionate, intensified, stronger than what they had thought. He got surprised by the quick learning by his wife which completed their kiss making them drown in passion.

To be continued