ArHi FF[Complete] - Running From The Truth#3 Epilogue pg. 102 - Page 35

any chance of an update?

Originally posted by: Arnav1Khushi

any chance of an update?

I have written most of the next chapter! You guys will definitely get a weekend chapter, hopefully tomorrow though 😊 Thank you for waiting!

Look forward to chapter 37

Get well soon!

Take care dear.

Happy new year dear! We are waiting :-)

Chapter 38A - Forge Ahead

He settled further into his pillow, watching her serene face in a peaceful slumber. A smile immediately made it's way to Arnav Singh Raizada's face, the curve of his lips only because he realized that this was a sight he was willing to wake up to every morning for the rest of his life. Her long lashes rested against the skin under her eyes, her hair was disheveled, and the slight pout of her lips making her look all the more adorable. His thoughts went back to the previous night; his delight grew after recollecting what had transpired between them both. He had shared with her, what no one else knew. Not even his Di. His feelings about his parents and how the death that ensued had affected him was a matter that he had planned to keep locked up in the back of his mind forever. But Khushi...she changed everything. It was now evident that being surprised would be habitual, with her in the picture. His eyes fell back on her, as he caressed her skin softly, making sure not to wake her.

And how easily had he shared everything...it was only because she had initiated it. She had showed him that he wasn't alone in this, that she had been sailing in a very similar boat. After the death of his parents, everyone had said they understood. This had made him scoff; lash out to the point where a flicker of hatred formed for the people around him. How could anyone other than him and his family possibly understand? However, when she said it...he could feel that she truly did. And it was not only because she had a similar situation, but more because she understood him.

He sighed, pulling her closer to his own body. She turned in her sleep, wanting to move further away however she was hindered by Arnav's hand tightly clasped around hers, something he himself was unaware of. It was just uncontrollable, something he did instinctively.

Her eyelids slowly started to open, but the sunlight hit her orbs making her close them once more as she frowned. Shaking his head with a smile, he thought of how much his Khushi loved her sleep. His fingers caught hold of the edge of the covers, lifting them up over their head so she was shielded from the light. Suddenly it felt like it was only them, in their small little world.

He watched her eyelashes flutter as she stirred in her somnolence, a sudden smile gracing her face although her eyes were still shut. She stretched and then threw her arm around Arnav's neck, moving closer to place her face in the crook of his neck. He pulled her closer, smiling as well as he tucked her in under his chin.

"Did you sleep alright?" His voice was husky from having scarcely awoken.

He felt her nod, "Did you?" She asked pulling her face away to stare at him despite her drooping eyes.

He fought the urge to laugh at the picture she presented him with, the way she talked to him with nearly closed eyes. "I slept like a baby. I don't remember the last time I slept so soundly." He admitted.

She settled back under his chin and he felt her sigh happily. "I have that effect on people." She murmured sluggishly, but he could hear the smile in her voice.

"Oh really? I was actually hoping that you were the type who could keep me up all night." He said suggestively, smirking when she pulled back again and her drowsy eyes were now wide open while she tried to hold back her laughter.

"Arnav you are shameless." She smacked him on the chest as he tightened his hold on his Khushi.

"I guess you just have that effect on people." He threw her words back at her, loving the way her lips curved into his favourite smile.

"Khushi?" He asked after some time.

"Mhmm?"

"Thank you, for being there last night. I needed that. I always need you, but there are days when I especially..."

"Arnav, would you stop being ridiculous and thanking me? I wouldn't have wanted to be anywhere else." She said soothingly, placing a kiss on his jaw and snuggling closer. "I knew...I talked to Di yesterday and she reminded me. I just...I couldn't stay away."

"Don't ever stay away." Arnav stated easily, his love for her unimaginably growing for her by the second.

"What time is it?" She asked sweetly.

"Too early for you to be worrying about the time. Sleep, I'll wake you up in some time. I'm just going to take a quick shower and then we can have breakfast together." He expressed, placing a kiss on her temple before attempting to get up and head to the washroom, however she reached out for him and pouted.

"Arnav...don't go." There was a hint of pleading in her tone, but her eyes only shone with adulation for him.

He smiled, feeling the corners of his eyes crinkling in the process as he leaned forward. "Khush, I promise I'll be fast. Just close your eyes for a bit and I'll be back before you know it." He ran his fingers through her errant strands of hair quickly before successfully getting up this time.

Khushi hugged the pillow next to her, sighing because it was nothing compared to the real thing. Although his scent did linger on the surface of his pillow, she noticed. She found herself opening her eyes and adjusting them to the light triumphantly moments later. Sitting up, she perceived that Arnav was still taking a shower. She had no track of time at this point of time, so she did not even know how long ago he went in. Dismissing her random thought process, she stretched relatively before throwing the covers off and standing up. She walked languidly, the smile that Arnav had so carefully placed on her face, still in place. She stopped in front of his full length mirror, taking a glance at her very messy form. She had never been one to stress over her appearance anyways, she thought as she ran her fingers through her hair. Arnav made her feel very beautiful, always.

Grasping the fact that sleep had decided to evade her, she made her way to his spacious kitchen. She wondered if he had ever made anything in here, as she gazed at the glossy wood that bordered the glass in the cupboards, the shiny silver and marble that she was suddenly surrounded in.

"This kitchen just makes me want to cook." Khushi muttered under her breath with a smile.

She headed over to his fridge, briefly scanning the various items as she bit her nails in confusion. She thought she would make breakfast for Arnav and surprise him.

However her thoughts went wayward when she heard the click of his front door, a key being swiftly turned and a door opening. Her eyes widened, wondering who it could possibly be and so she braced herself against the counter and peeked out into the living room to see.

----

Payal Gupta slipped a finger across the screen her iPhone as her alarm blasted once more, the loud English song resounded off the walls of her room, as she effectively turned it off. Groaning in her pillow, she turned over to make herself more comfortable however her phone had other plans. A shrill ringing interrupted the morning that was supposed to let her sleep in, as she turned and angrily picked up her phone. "What?!" She groaned into the phone.

"Payal!" The high pitched squealing on the other side did not help wake her up, yet made her annoyance level rise for not being able to sleep even more. "It's me, Shreya!"

She rolled her eyes, "Yes Shreya, I know your voice quite well. Why are you calling me so early?" Payal asked in her most sassy voice. Shreya was a new, sweet and very talkative friend she had been lucky enough to make in Lucknow. After her interview for the AR event, she had found Shreya around, waiting for her own interview. One thing had led to another, and they had ended up chatting for a while, realizing that they shared very similar interests. They exchanged numbers, and had even gone on a shopping trip together recently. Payal now considered Shreya as a very good friend, someone she could easily share anything with.

"Someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed!" Shreya giggled. "I'm sorry I woke you up darling, it's just that I couldn't contain my excitement any longer!"

"Shreya get to the point, if I get circles under my eyes, I will kill you." Payal warned, making her good friend on the other side laugh heartily.

"Okay, okay! I got a call from AR...they recruited me as a model for the fashion event! Didn't you get a call yet?"

Suddenly, Payal was wide awake and sitting upright on her bed. "They called you?! Today?"

"Yes, just now! I had to share it with you first. They're just finalizing matters, so I'm sure they will call you too Payal. Don't worry." She could hear the assuring hint in her friend's voice; however nothing would calm her nerves now. She knew very well that she would not get a call, and she knew why...that Akaash Stupid Raizada was doing this on purpose!

She would kill him. Her stomach growled, completely ruining her newfound attempt at a strong attitude, and she sighed.

First breakfast, she decided. And then...you better watch out Akaash! Her eyes now held a dangerous glint in her eyes as she mentally brainstormed ideas of how little old her could possibly confront someone as powerful and big and handsome...

Handsome? She mentally chided herself for her uncontrolled thoughts. He's not handsome, he's...evil... she decided.

------

Lavanya sulked at the breakfast table back at the Raizadas, not wanting her toast, or juice, or the pancakes she had been craving about 10 minutes ago. She wanted nothing, she decided as she looked at the various items scattered across the table. Hari Prakash kept bringing in more food to her own disdain, as everyone chattered among themselves happily. Her mood was completely off, despite all the delicious food, the environment around her, the people...nothing was helping.

"Lavanya bitiya, you haven't touched any of your food!" Devyani remarked in slight shock. "Is something wrong?"

"Yes, I was just going to ask you that as well!" Anjali said, turning all her attention towards Lavanya. "What's wrong? Is it the pancakes? Are they no good? I can make another batch!" Anjali suggested.

"Bitiya, is there something here that you don't like? Or maybe you are in pain?" Mahinder Raizada asked softly, and even Manorama had a worried look on her face.

She shook her head in negative, an abrupt overwhelming wave of sadness going through her. She suddenly wanted to cry her eyes at, especially at the sweet words of her family that cared so much for her! And here she was...upset over...she did not even know what! It was a mix of many things, and she did not want to trouble them with her incessant thoughts.

"I'm fine...just not hungry." Lavanya managed to say, leaving everyone else with frowns.

Suddenly, NK made an appearance by descending the stairs gracefully, his usual sunny smile adorning his face. He had a bag and file in hand as he made his way to the breakfast table.

"Mmm, smells good!" NK expressed happily. His eyes easily found Lavanya's first as he went over to stand beside her, his hand put on her shoulder comfortably. "Did you eat yet Lav?"

"No bitwa, she hasn't touched any of her food." Manorama complained, making NK turn to look at Lavanya in slight astonishment and worry.

"Why not? You were telling me how hungry you were this morning! Do you not like it? Tell me who made it, I'll yell at them." NK said, making Lavanya want to cry all the more.

"Excuse me, I just don't feel too well." Lavanya excused herself and walked up the stairs slowly and steadily knowing very well that she had a follower. When she reached her room, she sat on the bed and the waterworks came flowing easily.

"Lavanya?!" NK almost exclaimed as he dropped all that was in his hands and went to kneel beside her. "Tell me what's wrong! Are you in some sort of pain?"

She shook her head again, not wanting to face him when her emotions were a complete whirlwind. "I don't want to talk about it."

"Lavanya." NK said in a firmer voice. "Please?"

She removed the hands that were covering her face and looked into his soft dark eyes, sighing instantly because she knew very well he would not let it go.

"What if I'm not a good mother?" Lavanya asked, so innocently that it nearly broke NK's heart.

"What? Is that why you're so upset?" He asked incredulously.

"I'm serious NK! What if I'm a horrible mother?" Lavanya sobbed.

"Hey...shh, stop crying." NK said softly as he pulled her in for a hug, not caring that his suit was being drenched with her tears. He would change before work. "First of all, I have no idea what brought all of this on, but whatever it is, you need to remove it from your head. Secondly," NK continued stroking her head. "I know you get upset sometimes, overwhelmed all of a sudden and that's completely normal because of your mood swings...we've been over this I think." NK smiled half heartedly, remembering his various experiences with her that ranged from anger for not putting something in the right place, or sudden bouts of happiness upon seeing him suddenly. "Thirdly, you will be a great mother Lavanya, and I say this with only honesty. It won't be easy of course, but we have each other don't we? We will help one another, and it will all be okay. I don't want you thinking like that." NK said, a sudden wave of emotion washing over his own self. He wondered what he would do without her, or their baby. He wanted nothing but happiness for them all.

Lavanya sniffled, and pulled away from NK while he stood up to grab a tissue box. "Thanks," she muttered gratefully, wiping her tears. "It's just that...this morning, my friend Maya called me. She's a really good friend, and she's in town for the weekend. So she wanted to go out tonight...you know, clubbing and whatnot." Lavanya rolled her eyes, and NK wondered if what he had just seen was correct. The old Lavanya would never roll her eyes at the mention of a party. She had always been the life of parties.

"And I guess I forgot to mention it to her...you know, what's been going on with me lately. And she was just so shocked...I mean, I know it is shocking. People can't really picture me like this." She pointed to her own state, as NK listened quietly. "But even I've adjusted to everything, so why can't people accept that? The way she said it...she said she could never imagine me as a mother! It just made me wonder if I'm actually fit for all of this. I feel completely ready for everything NK, of course I'm slightly scared but excitement overrides all of that. What if...I don't know." She pouted, giving up.

"Lav...I only took in one thing from all of that - that you're ready for all of this. As long as you're happy, I am happy and so is our baby. Your friend hasn't seen you like I have, like this. You've grown so beautifully into all this...I'm proud to have you as my wife Lavanya." He admitted, making her head snap up to meet his eyes.

"Wh...really?" She asked, her eyes wide with wonderment.

"Definitely. I think we've both matured for the better, we helped one another. And we'll continue to do so." He said reassuringly.

"So...you're not unhappy anymore?" She asked hesitantly.

"I'm happy Lavanya, I truly am."

Lavanya smiled, an instant change in feeling as bouts of happiness bubbled deep through her being. The acceptance of NK was something she had been seeking all this time, although she knew they had been moving forward and he seemed much happier with her and the arrival of their baby, she was never sure he had accepted her as his wife. The rest of the family had fallen into the pattern easily, after some time and space they had looked at her with open arms.

She smiled through her tears as NK smiled back, putting a hand to her cheek lovingly before getting up to step away. He moved to the wardrobe, his hands moving quickly to take his suit off and replace it with another as she smiled at herself sheepishly; she had ruined his current one with her tears.

This was very well what had attracted her to NK in the first place, when they had initially started dating, his ability to overlook everything else and make one feel good about themselves. He had not seen her as anything else except for Lavanya.

Her thought process was interrupted as he turned up in front of her, a change in suit, as he held out a hand. "Let's go eat breakfast now!" He grinned, and she put her hand in his without a second glance. That was how it had always been, and would always be.

----

Khushi stared wide eyed, her mouth opening, then closing...the actions repeating themselves realizing she probably resembled a fish. She just...was not sure of who the small, plump woman who stood before her was. But by the way she put her hands to her cheeks and grinned, and Khushi could have sworn she saw her eyes begin to appear glassy; it was as if the older woman knew Khushi very well. It was as if they were long lost friends.

"You must be...Khushi, hai na?" She asked excitedly, placing the bags she had been carrying in her bag on the counter.

"Uh...yes, I am Khushi." She smiled softly yet hesitantly at the woman in front of her.

"You are prettier than I had expected. I am so happy to see you, my name is Radha. I'm the housekeeper." She grinned happily, at the same time as she took out the groceries from her bag. When she was done, she turned back to Khushi and stared expectantly.

Khushi chided herself mentally. How could she have forgotten? "Namaste Radha, I'm sorry I seem so confused. I guess I wasn't prepared for anyone! Very foolish of me, I'm sorry." Khushi apologized.

"Arrey, no need to apologize beta! I hope I did not scare you." Radha said sweetly, adjusting the pallu of her sari as she giggled.

"No, no. You did not." Khushi smiled back. "I'm glad we finally got to meet, Arnav speaks so fondly of you."

"Does he really? He is like my son!" Radha said cheerily. "He speaks of you all the time, you know. Where is he?"

"Taking a shower." Khushi replied with a blush, and then a fond smile because the woman's love for Arnav was very evident.

"Acha, what shall I make you both for breakfast?" Radha asked. "I know he likes so many kinds of foods that he eats back in the States. But I don't know how to make any of those." Radha complained sheepishly.

Khushi giggled. "Well I have never heard Arnav complain of craving anything in particular, you must feed him well." Khushi smiled, making the woman beam back proudly. "We will make breakfast together then! Let's make pancakes. He likes those, and then you can make them for him when I am not around!" Khushi decided as she took out any necessary ingredients.

Radha felt a stirring in her heart immediately, approving immensely of the sweet, pretty woman in front of her.

Radha was a happy woman in general, since a young age her smile ceased to leave her face. Despite this fact, she had suffered tremendously throughout her life. It was often said that the people who laugh and smile the most, were also the people who had cried the most. In Radha's case, this was absolutely relevant. Life had been hard on her initially, being married off to a man who never loved her, or even acknowledged her for that matter. After bearing two daughters, her in-laws who had already grown to dislike a woman like her, found reasons to point out flaws in her even more. She had not given the family a son, and she was constantly reminded of it. Her daughters were given no importance, and she held on to them even tighter as they were the only people she had in her life. Her husband had one day died in a tragic accident, and when she had assumed matters could not possibly become any more awry, she was proved wrong. Radha was left with two young children to raise on her own, and in-laws who took the opportunity to somehow blame her for her husband's death. She was left alone, to fend for herself, for her kids. It was upon God's grace that she came across the Raizada's. Ratna Raizada, Arnav's mother, had spotted one of her daughters at the mandir and had fallen for her immediately. Their days of living on the streets were brought to an end as Radha got a job as their housekeeper. Her and her daughters were given the utmost respect with the Raizadas. She had fallen for the family instantly, the beautiful and soft Anjali, Ratna the soft-spoken mother who she had developed a friendship with, and even Ajit Raizada, the father who never failed to give her a small smile whenever he was around...but it was Arnav who had found his way through her heart.

His anger and temper, the way he rarely spoke to anyone and constantly sported a frown, she had found it adorable. As she watched them grow, Arnav had slowly started to like Radha, and they had formed a friendship of sorts. And it was then that Radha realized why God had not given her a son, because she had found one in Arnav. They had moved to New York some years later, and she was left in charge of their place in Lucknow. And she had missed Arnav dearly, however whenever they came to visit, Arnav had come rushing to her for a hug and it was as if he had never left. The news of Ratna and Ajit's death some time later had left her heartbroken, and she had never quite gotten over it until date. But she realized how much it had made Anjali and Arnav grow up and mature.

Arnav had never forgotten her as he grew up, he had managed to send her money every month, and he had paid for her daughters' school fees, University payments. However, he refused to visit the house that held so many fond memories of his parents. So he had bought one of the biggest apartments in Lucknow, and she had decided she would check in on him from there whenever he visited. And she had found her happiness once more, the smile returning to her face as she watched her daughters grow without a single problem, and she knew she owed the Raizadas her life.

Arnav's happiness was undoubtedly very important, and this girl seemed perfect. From the way she caught Arnav smiling at himself from time to time; it had been obvious that the love bug had bitten him. Radha had finally stood up and asked him, unable to contain her curiosity any longer. And he had spoken the most Radha had ever heard him say in her life. She smiled to herself as she saw Khushi get into her work. She could only assume that Khushi had stayed with him to comfort him on this very day, a day where he was very gloomy. She could only hope that Arnav would not be the same this year, perhaps matters would be different.

Moments later, Khushi had finished flipping pancakes and Radha had made Arnav's very specific coffee, and almost on cue he emerged from his room. Strands of wet hair hung over his forehead as he rubbed a hand over the back of his neck. In a fresh pair of clothes, Khushi noticed how delicious he looked, and it did not help that she could smell his familiar musky scent from here. She took a deep breath and turned her attention towards the work in hand, trying to divert any thoughts about him.

"Radha Aunty!" Arnav grinned as his head snapped up, noticing one of his favourite people standing in front of him. He strode forward to seek her blessings as she lovingly patted his head, and then hugged her, while Khushi smiled happily watching them from the corner of her eyes.

"I feel like I haven't seen you in ages." Arnav complained as he pulled away from the hug.

Radha shook her head, "That's because you are hardly home nowadays, always working on this and that!" She chided.

"Sorry, you know things are getting busy with work." Arnav said apologetically, as he turned his head to look at Khushi who faced away from him, still flipping pancakes.

"So I have finally met her." Radha whispered and grinned, making Arnav lower his gaze and smile. Radha placed a hand on his cheek, patting him lovingly. "Theek hain, we will talk more later. I need to go now! I just came to drop the groceries as you were running out. And I also learned how to make pancakes from Khushi." Radha winked, and Khushi turned to look at them with a grin.

"But wait; won't you have breakfast with us?" Khushi asked suddenly.

"Oh no, I already ate with my kids, bitiya." Radha smiled at her concern. "Arrey haan! Khushi, I also bought you some toiletries so you can freshen up. Arnav called me early to tell me."

Khushi almost blushed and then thanked the women gratefully.

"Okay, I really need to leave now. Khushi bitiya, I hope we meet again soon." Radha smiled and nodded at Khushi who smiled just as sweetly back. "Arnav, walk me to the door, will you?" She asked, and he nodded almost instantly, giving Khushi a look before leaving the room.

Radha kept trying to hide her giddy smile, as they walked leisurely to the door, their steps relaxed and comfortable. When they did reach, Radha turned to Arnav and put her hand to his cheek. "I'm very happy today. Which is why I want to give you something...although, it is not actually for you." She said, watching the confusion form in Arnav's brown eyes.

Her hands went to her bag, pulling out a velvet box. It was not large, however not very small either and would spike anyone's interest. On top of the box, was an envelope attached. Radha watched the myriad of emotions flicker across Arnav's face, and then the recognition replace any other emotion.

For Chotey's Future Wife was inscribed neatly on the envelope was not what Arnav was concentrated on, but more the handwriting. It was...

"Ma?" Arnav asked, approaching the box slowly, his eyes fixed on the title.

Radha nodded slowly, her own tears threatening to spill. But today, she would be strong because it was finally time.

"She left this for...your future wife. Kangans. She even attached a letter to it. I thought...today, I would give it to you. It seemed right." She finally smiled, watching Arnav trying to regain control of his own emotions.

He nodded, taking the object from her hands gingerly. "Thank you. I think it is perfect timing as well." Arnav said softly, looking from the box to Radha.

Minutes later, she had left, leaving him with good wishes and her blessings. He took a deep breath, steadying his uneven breathing and shaking off any bad memories. What was important right now was the fact that Khushi was waiting for him in the kitchen, everything else could wait. And it was for his own selfish reasons as well, that his feet carried him so quickly to Khushi after putting the box away somewhere safe. She chased all the bad thoughts away; it was only him and her when they were together. She could keep him sane, keep him happy. She was everything.

He hugged her from behind as she was putting pancakes on a plate for him, and she jumped slightly before relaxing completely and he felt her smile. He rested his head on her shoulder, as his hands made way to snake around her waist. She placed her hands on top of his, her soft skin sliding from his forearms to his fingers and holding him.

"I made you pancakes." She said happily. When he did not respond, she frowned slightly realizing how he must be feeling, and turned in his arms to face him. She brushed strands of hair away, and gazed into his eyes with adulation. Her fingers stayed on his face, moving to cup his cheeks before leaning in to kiss him fully.

After yesterday, there was nothing left in her that felt the need to be scared. Following all the events of the previous night, everything they had shared...the insecurities had faded into oblivion.

Her lips moved against his, assuring, telling him she was here with him. And when he finally opened up and took control of the kiss, pushing her further against the counter, she could do nothing but gasp for breath. As his hands roamed her body, she gave herself to him, everything she had to give in that very moment. He pulled away moments later, smiling finally as he leaned his forehead against hers.

"I think I just lost my appetite for pancakes." He smirked, leaning in to peck her on the lips once more. She giggled against his lips, pushing him away with her best stern look while he watched in amusement.

"We are having pancakes, okay? I'm hungry." She stated as she raised her chin.

"I'm hungry too." He threw back at her. "Just not for pancakes..." He said leaning forwards to kiss her jaw as her laugh turned into a sigh of pleasure.

Somehow, she would never know where her self control came from, she managed to push him away and smile at him, as he smiled back looking like a little child.

"Arnav, breakfast first! No arguments."

"Fine, you win." He said in defeat, watching as she dazzled him with his favourite smile and he could not help returning it.

-----

Payal swung her bag angrily on her shoulder, tearing her sunglasses off as she entered the AR Designs building. Her heels resounded off the floor as she approached the front desk. The buzzing of people, the colours and elegance of the building did not catch her attention for once.

She came to face the woman sitting in the front desk who seemed to be making some important calls. "Hi." Payal interrupted.

The woman looked up and smiled, a flicker of confusion on her face. "Hello."

"I...I need to see Akaash Raizada." Payal announced confidently.

"Err...do you have an appointment Miss?" The woman asked.

"No, but I know the Raizadas well. I mean...my brother and cousin work with them. Khushi Gupta and..."

"You're Khushi Gupta's cousin?" Diya asked in shock. "Oh, alright then. Akaash is actually free right now if you want to see him. Give me one second." Diya smiled at Payal in a very friendly way and Payal looked at her with slightly narrowed eyes. It then dawned upon her that she had mentioned Khushi, of course everyone loved her. Being her cousin had it's advantages of course, why would anyone refuse someone like Khushi?

"Akaash Sir, there is a Payal Gupta here who wants to see you. Shall I let her up?" Diya asked, and then blushed and giggled moments later as she hung up. "He says to go right in." Diya said as her laughter subsided.

Payal stared in shock before made her way up the stairs slowly. Did he flirt with everyone? Did he have nothing better to do? Suddenly her resolve weakened as she feared what she would say next. Was she supposed to keep a straight face, or show him her visible anger? She was suddenly confused. However, she kept her head held high as she set on her mission in determination.

Knocking on the door lightly, memories of her first interview here some time ago made its way back to her. And she took a deep breath, her strength returning. She would tell him off and...

"Come in." He called.

She entered with slight hesitation, finding him looking up at her from his laptop as he leaned back in his leather chair.

"There you are, finally Payal! I was wondering when you would come." He drawled lightly, and suddenly the whole speech she had planned, flew out of her head.

"Have a seat." He gestured to the chair opposing him, while she narrowed her eyes at him.

"What do you mean you were wondering when I would come?" She asked suspiciously.

"You're here to yell at me. Because you think I didn't choose you, because you think I don't like you, because you think I judged you from our first meeting, you know, all that jazz...am I right?" He asked with a hint of a smile, his eyes always glinting with amusement.

"What?" She asked. "How did..."

"I'm a genius." He shrugged, with a laugh. "Actually, I was just going to call you. I had your file open."

Payal glanced down at his office to see in reality that he did in fact have her portfolio open, and she looked back at him with absolutely nothing to say.

"What's wrong? Cat got your tongue?" Akaash asked with a raised eyebrow.

Stupid, stupid, stupid! Why don't you think things through before doing them? Payal chided herself. Now what am I supposed to do?

"I just...got worried. I really wanted this and...I was just making sure you know. Maybe I shouldn't have assumed anything but...my friend Shreya said that you were making calls and I hadn't received one and..."

"Your friend told you that? Oops, I must have misspoken." Akaash said in mock apology, making her eyes widen.

"You did this on purpose didn't you? You knew I would freak out and come here." Payal finally asked, seething in anger.

"Did what?" He asked innocently, laughing when she glared hard.

Akaash pushed back his glasses and shrugged. "You are the one who misunderstood me. Don't try to put this on me, okay? I didn't know you would do anything..." Akaash smiled smugly at her.

He watched her clench her tiny fists, wanting to desperately say something but he knew she would not be able to.

He stretched in his seat and got up. "Let's start over, okay Payal? Now that you are working as a model for the event, it's better if we don't have such a sour relationship." He chuckled, while she crossed her arms and looked away.

"Let's be friends" He suggested, casually putting a hand out for her.

She continued to divert her eyes, looking anywhere but at him. Her embarrassment was slowly shrinking and her annoyance for the man in front of her was increasing.

"Okay, let's figure it out as we walk." He decided, taking his hand away.

"Walk? Where are we going, if I may ask?" Payal asked in irritation.

"Well I'm hungry and I m really craving pizza." He said, checking his phone once before putting it back in his pocket. He made way to the door, only to be halted by her voice.

"Pizza? You're thinking of pizza right now." Payal asked incredulously.

"Yes," He said in a very obvious tone. "I'm hungry. Now are you coming or not?"

"Coming with you? Are you mad?" She asked.

He shrugged leisurely, taking his jacket in hand as he opened his door. "I'm locking my door by the way...so unless you want to stay here..."

She struggled for words, wanting to say many things, however all she knew at the moment was that she did not want to be locked in Akaash Singh Raizada's office, so she ran out the door. Damn him!

"Wait! Fine, I'm coming." She grumbled, watching as he smirked at her in response.

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"Arnav..." Khushi said as she traced an unknown pattern on his palm. They sat on the lounger by his beautiful balcony, enjoying the view of the sun peeking out from the sky, a kaleidoscope of colours gracing their presence.

They had finished breakfast happily, while Arnav could not help compliment her pancakes. She had been so excited about them; Arnav wondered what would have happened had he not said anything. He had stolen a couple of kisses in between and then Khushi had excused herself to call up her Buaji and tell her she would be home soon. They had ended up here somehow, him cradling her body as she breathed steadily into his neck, the rhythm relaxing him naturally.

"I was thinking..."

"What were you thinking...?" Arnav smiled.

"That you should come over for dinner. Soon. You know, so we can tell Buaji properly..." She said softly.

"Really?" He asked. "You are...ready for that?"

She nodded with a smile. "I just want her to know everything clearly...there's nothing to hide anymore. I want to be with you, without any kind of hindrance." She continued to trace a pattern on his hands.

"I know Khushi, but your Buaji doesn't..."

"I know she isn't very fond of you. Actually, after Siddharth and Payal's father left them...she has kind of lost faith in any man. She doesn't trust them, so she easily finds the first reason to disapprove. But things have changed Arnav; between us...we aren't teenagers anymore. Once she realizes that, I'm sure everything will be alright."

Arnav nodded after listening to her carefully, entwining his fingers with hers in the process and looking down at their hands. He knew he had to do this, for her happiness. Anything for her. He would win Buaji over, they would win everyone over.

He lifted her hand to his lips, grazing them across her satin skin, while she stared at him with hope in her eyes, wondering what he would say. And how could he disappoint?

"When do you want me to come over?" He watched relief wash over her face, as she threw her hands around his neck.

"Thank you Arnav." She breathed.

He tangled his fingers into her hair, stroking softly as a smile graced his face. "I want only happiness for you Khushi. I want this too." He assured her. "Buaji will love me in no time."

"I love you." She said.

"I know." He grinned, leaning in for her lips.

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Scroll down for part B 😊

Chapter 38B - Forge Ahead

A week later, Siddharth sat across from his mother at the dinner table watching as she cleaned quietly. She looked concentrated in her work, but he knew her mind was elsewhere.

"Ma?"

"Hmm?"

"Doesn't Khushi seem a lot happier these days? I mean, she's always smiling to herself. She used to do that beforehand as well, but it seems to be really frequent now. Don't you think Ma?" He pushed further.

Madhumati looked at him, her eyes on the border of seeming angry that Siddharth had to bring up such an important fact, but she quickly concentrated on her cleaning.

"I can't wait for dinner tonight, since Arnav is coming. He's a really great guy." Siddharth said, knowing very well that he was treading on thin ice.

This time Madhumati did not look up and kept to her task, wiping various parts of the room and moving items around.

"Ma, would you please calm down? Just sit here with me for a second." He expressed with a sigh. Madhumati could not help but put whatever she had in her hand away, and walk over to her son in defeat. She pulled a chair out and sat across from him as the memories of what Khushi had told her came flooding back to her senses.

"Buaji...do you think I could invite someone over for dinner?"

Khushi had asked hesitantly, and Madhumati, not realizing what the very obvious outcome would be, had happily obliged. When she had asked who, she had responded simply. Arnav. There was no need for an introduction, no use in explaining what was going on, and everything had fallen into place in Madhumati's head.

"I'm sorry I had to keep it from you Buaji...I wanted to do this sooner. But I've finally found it in myself. I love Arnav Buaji, we love one another. I am sure about this."

Madhumati had been at a loss for words initially, and this had only weakened her resolve.

"I'm grown up now; I know what I am doing. This is not a mistake Buaji, and I know you don't like him. But please, give him one chance. He has changed immensely...and that too, for me. Please do this for me; you are the closest thing I have to a mother. I need your blessings; I seek your approval Buaji. And the two of us cannot move any further without it."

Any words she had formed, had died in her throat after listening to her Khushi's honest words, which had touched her right where she was most sensitive. When Khushi had compared her to Garima, something inside Madhumati had flickered, almost like a burning light that she had kept lit, and it had blown out. She had agreed, and the smile on Khushi's face was absolutely worth it. Seeing her niece, whom she considered as a daughter happy, was something she would never tire of seeing.

And so, here she was. It was time to finally meet Arnav, for her niece's well being, for the entire family's in fact.

"You need to trust Khushi Di." Siddharth's voice steered Madhumati out of her thoughts. "She knows what she is doing, who she has chosen. And she is happy, can you deny that?"

Madhumati shook her head in negative. "But I don't like that family Sid, have you forgotten why I brought her here in the first place? The way they treated her..."

"Did you also know that Arnav had not talked to any of his family for a very long time because of it? Until Khushi Di had finally convinced him. And he finally talked to them, only because he did not want Khushi to feel guilty about it." Siddharth said thoughtfully.

"Does that change the way they feel about her Sid? Will they accept her as a daughter-in-law? Even after everything with NK, will she feel comfortable in that house? Will he?" Madhumati shot back.

"All I know is that Arnav wouldn't let anything hurt Khushi Di. He would leave him family if that was what it came to." Siddharth explained softly. "They will work matters out, you just need to accept it first Ma."

Madhumati looked away, not knowing what to think, what to say. Her mind was at war with itself, and this was the worst kind. How could she accept all this? What life had thrown at her was only a supporting detail. But then, on the other hand how could she not accept? Perhaps it was all her fault in the first place, had she given Khushi those letters...would any of this have happened? It would not, she decided. Perhaps Arnav would have apologized and eventually Khushi would have forgiven him. She knew she could not let her niece down this time as she recalled how upset she was upon finding out what her Buaji had been hiding...

"I don't know anything Sid, only that I want Khushi bitiya to be happy. The rest will fall into place." She stated, and Siddharth decided not to pry any further. She got up quickly and headed for the kitchen.

Payal almost walked in on cue, with her cell phone in hand. She smiled briefly at the screen, and then looked up at her surroundings and her smile faltered as she sported a straight face. Taking a seat beside her brother, she sighed and looked around.

"Why are you staring at me like that?" Payal asked when she had no choice but to look at her brother who would not look away from her face with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"Why were you staring at your cell phone like that?" He waggled his eye brows.

"Because I was just talking to my friend, and she was telling me how she thinks you're very strange. I thought it was funny." She laughed, making Siddharth scowl.

"Oh please, I know you have a secret boyfriend." Siddharth said. "And I can only guess who it is..."

"Whatever Sid. So, when is Jeejaji coming?" She asked changing the subject.

"Jeejaji is too long; I'm going to call him Jiju. It sounds cuter too." Siddharth decided.

Payal stifled her laughter. "I'm going to tell him you said that."

Siddharth's eyes widened, "I was kidding! If you tell him that...I will tell him that you were crushing on him initially!"

Payal gasped and gave Siddharth a warning look before he guffawed at her reaction.

Khushi walked into the dining area, smoothing the invisible creases on her clothes. She had decided to wear a red anarkali he had once complimented her on, and of course she knew this was his favourite colour. Her eyes met with her cousins laughing over some matter, and a smile immediately made its way to her face.

"What's the joke?" Khushi grinned as she sat across from them.

Their laughing came to an abrupt end, and it seemed as if their voices had died in their throats momentarily as they stared at one another, and then back at her making Khushi frown slightly.

"Nothing Khushi Di, was just making fun of Payal!" Siddharth covered up.

"O...kay." Khushi said, completely unconvinced as she stared at Payal's blank face.

"Yeah Khushi Di, you know how Sid is. Always making fun of me!" She said with a laugh, waving a dismissive hand in the air.

"Uh huh...anyways, where is Buaji?" Khushi asked.

"In the kitchen, just doing some last minute stuff. So when is jij...I mean, when is Arnav coming?" Siddharth asked quickly.

She narrowed her eyes slightly and then moved her eyes to her watch that was wrapped around her wrist. "He should be here..."

A knock at the door interrupted her sentence midway, and she looked to the door with an uncontrolled smile. "Now." She completed.

Skipping to the door without a second glance at anyone, she ignored the blush that threatened to colour her skin. She was a mixture of many emotions, slight exhilaration, much trepidation, but mostly a sense of serenity that this was finally happening. No more heinous limits. A sensation of euphoria that they were moving forward so beautifully, there were no more barriers in their way except family. Although Arnav refused to believe that they were examples of impediments, he believed that if they loved one another there was nothing else to think about. But because he respected Khushi and her thoughts, knowing that acceptance was a big deal for her, he was working towards all of this. And this only made her love for him grow impossibly, she wondered if she would ever be able to express it properly verbally or physically. Would he ever know how much she loved him? But then again, he loved her tremendously as well; he must have been asking himself the same thing.

Taking a deep breath, she opened the door and was almost blown away by his mere appearance. One would have thought that she had gotten accustomed to him, after spending so much time together she had memorized his every move, his every feature and habit. Every roll of his eyes, every small curve of his lips, the way he preferred solitude at times and the way he needed her with him in others. The way he reacted at her mere touch, they way she felt when he touched her...

She was happy. And then she cocked her head to the side and dazzled him with a smile so brilliant, he almost reached out for her and kissed her. But he resisted, knowing his environment. She reached for his hand softly, pulling him in the house and closing the door behind him.

She glanced around herself briefly before tip toeing and planting a kiss right on his cheek. "Hi." She murmured against his skin.

"Khushi, don't tempt me here." He warned, and she let out an inaudible gasp.

"You're nervous." It was not a question, but a statement.

"What? I'm not nervous." He argued, and Khushi almost let out a giggle.

"Wow, the great Arnav Singh Raizada is nervous!" She said to herself in awe, watching as he gave her a slight glare.

"Okay, I'm sorry, I'm sorry. Just relax, would you? It's going to be great." She smiled at him, gripping his hand tighter in reassurance and suddenly Arnav felt much better. It was true, he was in fact slightly uneasy about this all. It was different from impressing a client, or a business associate. That was all breezy for him, however this was about Khushi. She was bigger than any business deal or contract.

He squeezed her hand back and nodded, as they walked into the dining area. He met with Siddharth and Payal who both sat at the table already, in an animated discussion. Khushi cleared her throat, effectively catching their attention as they both turned around and smiled. They were warm smiles, welcoming, and Arnav felt himself relaxing further.

He had seen much of Siddharth and some of Payal as well. However, to see them together was as if one was looking at two books with similar covers, yet a different interior. They were similar in looks, yet discordant in movements, personalities. Siddharth was more calm, relaxed with a sense of subtle humor, and Payal was glamorous, loud and uncaring of what others thought about her. Arnav was amazed at the differences between all three relatives, including Khushi.

"Hi Arnav Sir! Have a seat." Siddharth offered.

"Please, call me just Arnav." He suggested politely, and Siddharth nodded vigorously.

"Hey Payal, how are you?" Arnav asked with a smile.

She almost blushed at the sound of his husky voice, wanting to giggle like a school girl and she exchanged a brief look with Siddharth who mentally reminded her of what they had against one another.

"I'm great." She grinned. "Are those flowers for me?" She asked, and Arnav chuckled lightly, looking at Khushi who smiled lovingly at him.

"Actually, they are for Buaji."

They say if one speaks of the devil, they appear. And this was precisely what happened as Madhumati exited the kitchen and stopped to look at Arnav. The look of disapproval flashed across her face, and it would have been difficult to miss.

"Namaste Buaji." Arnav said, slipping his hand out of Khushi's to greet her properly, and Madhumati nodded politely. "Namaste." She replied.

"Buaji, Arnav brought these flowers for you. They are your favourite too, red roses." Khushi expressed happily as she motioned to the flowers in Arnav's hands.

"Khushi must have told you. Thank you." Madhumati said as she took the flowers out of his extended hands and left to put them in a vase. When she returned and noticed Arnav was still standing, she gestured for him to have a seat before Khushi, and could not help but notice what a gentleman he was.

"Would you like some tea?" Madhumati asked softly.

"Can I have green tea?" Payal asked.

"She wasn't asking you Payal. Geez..." Siddharth said with a shake of his head. "You will get used to her Arnav, she is a bit self absorbed." He grinned.

Payal almost got up to hit her brother, but Madhumati's stern voice disrupted her. "Payal." She warned.

"Why are you warning me? Did you not hear your son?" Payal asked her mother incredulously.

"Sid, be nice to your sister." Khushi chided softly.

Payal huffed and sat comfortably in her seat, glaring at Siddharth while Arnav suppressed a smile and Khushi shook her head.

"If the offer is still open, then yes I would love some tea Buaji."

Madhumati's head snapped towards him, "Call me Aunty. Only Khushi calls me Buaji."

To say Arnav was slightly taken aback would be an understatement, so he nodded slowly and smiled politely. "Of course, Aunty."

He turned his head to look at Khushi briefly, whose expression had faltered from a happy one, to a slight look of dismay. This time he grabbed her hand from under the table and gave it a gentle squeeze, as if telling her it would be okay eventually, and that he did not mind. Although an old part of him wanted to glare and show his temper, he controlled it as he had practiced so carefully to do.

"Khushi was making pakoras for you, as she told me you like them. Bitiya, go bring a tray of tea and snacks first." Buaji said, and Khushi did not look at her but got up silently and headed to the kitchen. Arnav watched as Madhumati's eyes trailed after her niece, a hint of remorse, regret in her eyes? She turned back just as swiftly to face Arnav and there was an uncomfortable silence that hung over them.

"So...Arnav and I are all set for the fashion event happening next week. Finally, all the hard work has paid off." Siddharth cut through the silence.

Arnav nodded before responding, "Yes, hard work has definitely paid off. I am sure it will be a hit as it always is. Lucknow is a beautiful place to do it, as it is our traditional line. Your niece and son are both very responsible for all the future success Aunty." Arnav said very honestly. He was not one to suck up, nor was he good at telling people what they wanted to hear. This was only the truth, and all he could say that might make Madhumati feel better.

"Yes, they are both very hard working." Buaji gave a small smile for once and glanced at her son.

"Hello? I'm here too!" Payal narrowed her eyes at Siddharth as she waved an arm in the air.

"And of course we have Payal modeling for us." Arnav added, smiling at her and she grinned back.

"Yes, the Guptas and Raizadas are pretty involved at the moment." Siddharth remarked, making Payal's eyes widen and her hand closed over her phone almost protectively. "Like the sun and the sky have met finally!" Siddharth said.

While Arnav and Madhumati stared in confusion, Payal turned beet red at the referral of the sky. Had they been alone, she would have commented on how lame it was...of course, he meant Akaash. She had not told him anything, so he must have seen his name on her phone.

It was true, after that day where she had burst into his office for no solid reason, they had gone out to eat...not a date, but at the end of it, she had thought it to be a sort of unplanned date. They had agreed to a friendship of sorts...and the ever so flirting Akaash Raizada had then asked Payal out on a date the next day. Although finding it strange yet flattering, she had agreed wholeheartedly and it had continued over the week. She knew he was the type who had flings, never anything serious. And for now, all she knew was that she liked Akaash very much, and he seemed to like her. Whether he thought of it as a fling or not, whether this would continue or not, was something she would wait and watch for.

"I mean...we're working on this project together, and now Payal is working with Akaash..." Siddharth cleared the air, and they all nodded, however Payal made a mental note to destroy Sid.

Khushi came in with a large tray, pakoras and a beautiful set of cups and a teapot perfectly placed on the surface. She smiled softly, having seemed to lighten up despite the way she had left the room.

Settling it down, she took her seat and glanced around her.

"Khushi Di makes the best pakoras, you'll love them Arnav!" Siddharth stuffed one greedily in his mouth as he explained.

"You know Sid, eating with your mouth closed is a good thing." Khushi said with a raised eyebrow, stifling a giggle.

"Everything she makes is delicious." Arnav admitted, not noticing the way Madhumati's expression softened.

"Arnav, do you prefer jeejaji or jiju?" Payal asked curiously.

Arnav almost choked on his tea before looking up and Payal in slight shock. "Sorry?"

"See, he likes jeejaji better." Payal concluded as she stared at him expression, turning to look at her brother. "Sid wanted to call you Jiju."

Khushi, on the verge of laughing, looked back and forth between the two, "This is what you were discussing earlier, wasn't it?"

"Payal, how does it feel to still be a tattle tale?" He asked with a glare while Payal giggled relentlessly.

"Okay but seriously, can I call you jeejaji?" Payal asked Arnav.

"Payal..." Madhumati warned again.

"What, even I'm curious." Siddharth said with a shrug.

"Don't you think it's a little soon..." Khushi started, but was interrupted half way into her sentence.

"You can call me whatever you like. Although I prefer Arnav personally, it is your choice." Arnav smiled charmingly.

"What is the point in calling him that when they are not married yet?" Madhumati asked, turning to her kids. "Who knows if marriage is even in the question...?" She concluded under her breath.

Arnav cleared his throat, stroking the back of Khushi's hand that rested lightly on his thigh.

"Like I said, it is your choice. Or you can wait until Khushi and I get married to call me that." Arnav suggested.

This time not only did Madhumati stare at Arnav, but Khushi did as well. They had never discussed marriage, or the idea of it. She had always known that he did not believe in the institution, and assumed it had changed overtime with him. But to hear the words come out of his mouth sent her heart fluttering. He avoided her gaze on purpose with a slight quirk of his lips, knowing she would be shocked.

"Will your family allow it? After everything they have said?" Madhumati countered, and this time Arnav's fists clenched until his knuckled turned white at the memory.

"Buaji!" Khushi said in astonishment. "I thought we agreed on..."

"Bitiya, please." Her aunt said in a pleading tone. "This is about his family...it's an important matter to discuss."

"Aunty," Arnav interrupted softly. "I love your niece very much. My family is very apologetic regarding the way they had previously acted. They love Khushi dearly, and this all happened due to a misunderstanding, which was my fault. I am not justifying my actions, or my family's. And I can promise you that if she gets the slightest bit disrespected by any member of my family, I will take Khushi away from that house. We can live on our own, wherever she wants. She comes first to me."

Everyone at the table was completely silent, listening to Arnav very keenly, taking in his every word. "I know, I have made mistakes. Many of us have." He said, and Madhumati felt the guilt in her own self form because he was absolutely right.

"What is important to Khushi is also important to me. Her parents, and you, have raised her beautifully, and she wants everyone's blessings before we can move forward. Yours are the most important. I know you do not like me much, and I will not blame you. But I am willing to come to as many dinners as it takes for you to accept me, whatever it takes. For Khushi." He looked at her, pure unadulterated love in his eyes as took her hand in both of his.

Madhumati felt a whoosh of breath leaving her as she relaxed in her seat slightly, his words ringing in her head like a broken record. She looked at her niece, the pleading look in her eyes and then looked away.

"I will bring out dinner. Khushi made some of your favourites, I hope you like it." Madhumati gave him a small smile as she got up and headed to the kitchen.

Both Siddharth and Payal grinned at Arnav widely, "The filmy side in me wants to get up and clap for you. But I shall spare you." Payal said.

"Oh thank goodness we are spared." Siddharth heaved a sigh of relief. "But on a serious note...I am very happy for you Arnav and Khushi Di. Truly happy." Siddharth grinned, and Payal nodded along. "Me too."

Khushi resisted the urge to throw herself at Arnav, to kiss him to her heart's content, to feel his skin under her fingers, to hold him. Instead, she brought his hand to her face and kissed his palm, silently telling him she loved him.

The rest of dinner was silent, apart from Siddharth and Payal's occasional bickering, and Arnav's approval of the food Khushi had made with him in mind. Not a word more was said by Madhumati who ate in silence and hardly gazed up. She seemed to be deep in thought, and they all wondered what she was thinking.

When dinner ended, Arnav had finished off his conversation with Payal and Siddharth and had stood up from his chair. "Thank you for having me for dinner Sid, Payal, Aunty." He smiled gently.

"Arnav..." Khushi began.

"I have to go." He said with a twinge of regret, wishing he did not have to leave her.

"Okay, I will walk you to the car." Khushi smiled.

"Thank you Aunty, for everything." He left for last, nodding politely before he turned to face the door, Khushi in tow.

"Wait!" Madhumati called out before they stepped out, her voice hesitant yet firm. Arnav turned first looking at Khushi once before gazing at Madhumati expectantly.

"There is tons of food...take some leftovers bitwa." She offered, not a hint of the silent rebuke that she had carried in her voice the entire evening.

"Buaji..." Khushi started.

"I would love to." Arnav finished, with a smile, which she returned slightly much to his surprise.

Moments later she brought out containers of food for him in a bag, checking inside once more to see if everything was in place.

"Here." She passed him the bag gingerly, and he took it unfathomably, something inside him stirring for the first time. "I've forced Payal to start learning how to cook...if you would like, she is making us dinner next week and you may join if you wish." Madhumati suggested.

Arnav looked at Payal who smiled nervously, and then Khushi who nodded in encouragement, her eyes gleaming with warmth.

"I would love to join; I will check my schedule and get back to you Aunty." Arnav smiled genuinely.

Madhumati nodded, and gave him a look of acknowledgement. There was a hint of acceptance; however Arnav knew it would not be so fast. And he did not mind waiting some more for time because he had not come here with the expectation that it would be a happy ending of sorts. That it would all be okay in a flash, him and Khushi both knew what reality was about. But this was a start, and he left feeling it was a positive one.

Moments later, Khushi was clinging to his arm as they approached his parked car in her driveway. "Arnav...I'm sorry if anything Buaji said offended you, she's just still..."

"Khushi, stop feeling so badly. Did you see how she was in the end? I think she will like me soon." Arnav smiled.

"Look at me, pathetic! I'm supposed to be assuring you, instead it's the opposite. I was just so nervous...and,"

Arnav stopped in front of his car, pulling Khushi to stop and face him. She immediately put her arms around his waist and looked up at him with a slight pout.

"Khushi," Arnav leaned down and placed a kiss on her pout and pulled back to look at her, searching her face. She sighed and smiled up at him slowly.

"Okay, I am relaxed now."

"Feel free to use that method on me whenever I am tensed Khushi." He grinned boyishly, earning a smack on the arm from Khushi who ended up moments later doing exactly what he said.

"But you're right, at the end she seemed to have softened up towards you! Thank you for saying everything that you did Arnav."

Pulling away unwillingly, they both sighed and agreed they would see one another the next day. And as Arnav drove away, he caught Khushi waving goodbye and realized that he had not felt so happy in a very long time. And he was in a phase of his life where he looked forward to the next day, to the future, a future with Khushi. The day where he could put his mother's bangles on her, the day where he would marry her, the smile on her face throughout all of it...there was much to look forward to. And as he drove off, he fathomed the fact that he could not wait.

Previous : Chapter 37 Next : Chapter 39

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Hi everyone! Firstly, wishing you all a very happy new year😃 I hope you all enjoyed the holidays!

Secondly, so sorry for the delay, I know it has been a while! But I've been sick for almost a month and a half, going to hospitals and studying for exams. So asli duniya has been tough, but I am here now and have pretty much recovered.To make up for lost time, I hope you enjoy the long updates 😊

And last but not least...a couple more chapters, and this story will be finished! Chapter 40 will most probably be the last 😳

Enjoy, and Happy Reading! Feel free to buddy me for PMs.

Great. I m excited to read the update. Happy new yr

Yayy!