Tarasti hai Nigahein - OS

One-shot:

He dreaded walking back to his room which was now occupied by his few days old...wife. Khushi Kumari Gupta. He could not accept the treacherous act of this woman. And did not that vile snake admit that he and Khushi were in love with another? So the calculative ASR took control of everything to make her pregnant sister's life easier. 

But after a hectic day at the office, he just wanted to retire to his room. Shaking his head Arnav Singh Raizada prepared himself to see the lady who made him a beast after her betrayal. However, as he entered his room an unexpected sight greeted his vision. He gulped watching the sensuous scene. His new wife was twirling around the room with a beautiful smile on her face. No. She was practically giggling. 

Khushi??

Hehehe...Arnavji.

She welcomed him with her glowing smile. It was a change from her sad and teary face. But this drastic change made him suspicious. This morning Khushi was weeping near the poolside. Then what made her so glad? As Arnav advanced in her direction his nostrils flared in disbelief as the familiar smell of alcohol reached him.

What the? Khushi? Are you drunk?

Nai...Bilkul nahi...hiccup...nahi drunk.

(No..not at all...I am not drunk).

He could not believe his eyes. She was a vixen sent from hell to finish him off. The seduction moves were not helping his growing desires. Trying to curb the feelings Arnav grabbed her arms and tried to steady her. But alas the beauty had different plans.

Stop it. Stop dancing in circles with your dupatta Khushi Kumari Gupta. Tumhe sharaab kisne pilai haan?

(Who gave you alcohol?)

Sharaab nahi...health drink...hiccup. Nanheji ne diya.

(Not alcohol...it was an energy drink. Nanheji offered me one).

Health drink?!? What the hell! His cousin loves to create trouble. He has married Khushi but still, NK does not leaves an opportunity to hover around his wife. Jealousy rushed inside his veins making the man crazy. Why does this always happen when Khushi Gupta is concerned? This is ridiculous. Verbalizing his anger he shook his wife who was still swaying in his hold.

Sit down Khushi. Four days. Only four days of this contract marriage and you are driving me crazy. 

Hehehe....gusse mein to aapki aankhen....kitni khoobsurat lgti hain....hiccup.

(When you are angry your eyes...look pretty).

She was drunk. But her words were intoxicating for even the controlled ASR. He felt something flutter inside him. His wife was flirting with him. And this made him nervous. She lifted her finger and rubbed his under-eye region. Shocked by the electrifying touch he let her go and sat on the recliner looking at the wall behind Khushi. However, his wife had other ideas. One second she stood in front of him and the next she was sitting on his lap. Astounded by the move he felt speechless. For once ASR sat very still. Unprepared for his woman's action. Gulping his nervousness he tried to frame something to distract himself. Feeling restless Arnav spoke out loud.

..what...? What are you...trying to do Khushi Kumari Gupta?

Hehe...hum to bas aapke paas baithe hain....hiccup...hehe...

(I am simply sitting on your lap).

She wrapped her arms around his neck and locked eyes with his own. Her orbs were shining with mischief. While Arnav Singh Raizada felt his anger vaporizing in thin air. Her warmth made him dizzy. The sudden proximity made him gulp. Stammering like a fool he tried to hold her by the elbow.

Khushi...stop this....just get down.

Aapko pata hai Arnavji...hehe...jab aapne humara video Lucknow mein leak kia tha na tab kuch gundon ne humein cheda tha.

(You know something Arnavji...hehe...when you leaked my video in Lucknow some goons tried to take advantage of me).

Video? When did he...? His eyes touched his forehead as blurry flashes of the past greeted Arnav. He turned pale as her words registered in his brain. Eve teasing?? Did they do something to her? OH NO. NO NO NO NO! Embracing her to reassure his beating heart he enquired about those good for nothing creatures.

What the? Oh my god. Phir kya hua?Say something damn it.

(What happened then?)

Hehehe...aapki wajah se hi to hum unse mile. Unhone hi humein bachaya...hiccup...

(...it is because of you that I met him. He saved me after all).

His mind could not grasp anything. Did he save her? He who? Arnav mused as Khushi got distracted by the poolside. He cupped her cheeks and made her face him. The idea of someone else being her saviour irked him. These riddles were annoying him. Slowly, her eyes came back to him. Unable to curb his curiosity he enquired about the man who saved his wife.

Kinhone bachaya?

(Who saved you?)

Humare mangetar ne. Phir majbooran Delhi aaye to woh wahan bhi aagaye. AR mein naukri ke liye bheja aur phir Buaji ke PG bangaye.Hiccup...he did black magic on Buaji tabhi toh majboor hokar sagai kri.

(My fiance. Then he followed me to Delhi. He even promised me a job in AR and then somehow became a PG in Buaji's house. He performed some sort of black magic on Buaji which made me get engaged to him).

The revelation made his heart sway. He could feel the rabba ve tune around him. She was coaxed by Buaji. She was not interested in that weirdo. Her confession soothed his mind like a balm. So what happened on Diwali night was more than just a passing attraction for Khushi. She was equally affected. It was never a one side thing. But the idea of a stranger being her fiance made his blood boil.

What the? You were forced? 

Hmmm...hiccup...aur phir pta chala who shaadishuda hai...dhoka dia sabko...yaad hai...hiccup...pooja ke

din hum roye the aapke saamne.

(And then I got to know that he is a married man...he betrayed us...do you remember that day...I broke down in tears as you consoled me).

What the hell?!? That fraud. How dare he betray Khushi and her family. He recalled the day perfectly. She had been a mess. That is why she was so heartbroken that day he concluded. That stupid PG did not do right by her. He needs to be punished for his deeds. What was his name? Damn it. Bl**dy cheat.

Haan. Shyamji. My fiance. Your Jeejaji. Betrayed everyone. 

You are really drunk huh? Kya bol rhi ho?

(What are you saying?)

He could not believe her slurred words. Khushi cannot lie in such a state. But what does she mean by Shyam being her fiance and his Jeejaji? Has he misunderstood the situation? But then what happened at the terrace? No, he heard her. He witnessed the act with his own eyes. Suddenly she stood up from his lap and turned sideways and looked towards his laptop, which was kept on the coffee table.

Hehe...rukiye. Hum abhi aapko dekhate hain ki Jeeji ki shadi wali raat unhone kya kia...hiccup...now where is that pen drive? Nanheji told me to insert it into your laptop.

(Wait. I will show you what happened on the night of Jeeji's wedding...now where is that pen drive?)

Khushi fumbled with the pen drive but was able to insert it into his device after a few attempts. He tried to hold her swaying body but his hands halted in mid-air as he saw Khushi and Shyam on the terrace yet again. Wait. Did he manhandle her? Touched her inappropriately leaving bruises on her forearms. Fear replaced her smiling form. Damn it. She is scared of that snake?)

What the?!? He hugged you forcefully?

Haan...Humein laga ki aap aaye hain chat pe humein batane ke aap bhi humse...hehe...par aap nai aaye Arnavji...hiccup...aur woh aagaye.

(Yes...I imagine that you would come to the terrace to say that you also felt....but you never came Arnavji...instead he arrived).

Arnav swallowed the rising bile inside him. The video revealed her innocence and his Jeejaji preying on Khushi as if she were a cattle. He heard the same lines that had shattered his world. But this time from a different perspective. His eyes touched his hairline as his blunder slapped him on the face. Whispering in a soft tone filled with guilt and regret he verbalized his feelings.

You told him to leave Di because you wanted to know his...real motive? 

For the first time, Arnav Singh Raizada felt ashamed of himself. He claimed to be god. His egoistic side made him destroy the happiness of the woman who meant the world to him. Holding his head in his hands the man tried to overcome the feeling of nausea that threatened his sanity. His power and money were of no help in matters of the heart. As he sat on the sofa he sensed soft hands pushing his own from his face. When his wife wiped away the wetness, he realized the tears cascading down his cheeks.

Aapki badi badi aankhon mein...hiccup...mote mote aansu kya kar rahe hain? 

(Ooooo such big tears...hiccup...in your eyes?)

He glanced sideways to see his innocent Khushi staring at him with a look of worry. He did not deserve such treatment from the woman whose life was now in tatters because of him. Composing himself, the man tried to handle the matter.

You...are his victim?

Haa..an...hiccup...I wanted to tell you about him. Jeeji ki shaadi wali raat ko. Par aapne toh deal krli. Aur hum bangaye 'Khushi Kumari Gupta 6 mahine ke liye Singh Raizada'.

(I wanted to tell you about all this at Jeeji's wedding but you rather made a deal with me. And here I am 'Khushi Kumari Gupta for 6 months Singh Raizada')

Giggles echoed in his room as she addressed the huge fortress between them in her drunken state. Contract marriage. Her last sentence kept ringing in Arnavs ears for a long while. He wished to hide from the bitter reality. 

'Khushi Kumari Gupta 6 mahine ke liye Singh Raizada'.

'Khushi Kumari Gupta 6 mahine ke liye Singh Raizada'.

For the first time, ASR wanted to go back in time. He desired to meet Khushi on that terrace without any obstacle between them. He felt her sit beside him on the recliner.

Sniff...everybody hates me. Raizadas. Guptas. Buaji ne kaha I am not her brother's true blood that is the reason I betrayed them so easily...hiccup...not their true blood.

Rubbing his face he turned towards the poor girl who sat helplessly next to him. His Di once told him that being practical does not always work. However, then the ASR in him did not give a damn about such bits of advice. But today he desperately wanted to make amends. Caressing his wife's head he tried to console her.

Khushi...please don't cry. I am...I just. Mujhe nahi pata tha.

(I had no clue).

Yahan koi bhi humara apna nai hai. Ab sirf do dost hain humare Shantivan mein. Hariprakashji aur Laxmiji. Koi humse baat bhi nai krta.

(I have no one to call mine. There are only two friends of mine in Shantivan HP and Laxmi. Nobody else talks to me).

Khushi's breakdown made him fall in his own eyes. It was difficult for him to comprehend the magnitude of his wife's pain. It was excruciating. Rubbing a hand over his face he tried to think of something that would sound consoling. The fact that this woman felt lonely even in a house filled with so many people made Arnavs heartbreak into shards. So he spoke the first thing that came into his mind.

No Khushi. Aisa mat kaho. Main hoon na. I am always here.

(Don't say that Khushi. I am here).

Only for...hiccup...6 months. Deal hui...hiccup...hai. Phir sab khatam. Sunehre pinjare mein phasi ye chidiya ek din udd jaayegi Arnavji...hiccup...udd jaayegi.

(Once the is over this little bird in the golden cage will find her freedom Arnavji).

Saying the words her voice trailed and slowly Khushi Kumari Gupta Singh Raizada lost her consciousness.  And as usual, Arnav was there to hold her. For the first time in 5 days, Arnav Singh Raizada wanted to scream out loud. His business ethics, schemes and desire to keep things under his control, all felt meaningless to him today. It seemed like he had been pushed off a cliff. The fear of the unknown was engulfing him rapidly. Leaning back on the recliner he kept staring down at his innocent wife. His insides were being dosed in fire. And he could not do a thing as he sat drowning in his hell. 

Khushi's fiance Shyam. The video. The manhandling. The way Khushi screamed at that snake to leave his Di because she knew he was salivating for the Raizada wealth. Arnav hugged the woman in his arms as tears made their way down his eyes.

His cruel deeds flashed before his eyes. How he dragged Khushi to the temple only to push her into a sham of a marriage. He mocked her beliefs and morals. How he stated that she would never be able to enjoy the position of being his wife. And the way he pushed her out of his room to the poolside. His cruel and cold act and her painful tears.

As guilt consumed him Arnav Singh Raizada realized something vital. The precious bundle in his arms is the centre of his universe. She is the only person in this whole world who could love him. Who could bring back the warmth and humanity in him. Wiping a lone tear he promised to avenge Shyam Manohar Jha because of whom he destroyed the feelings growing inside him for Khushi.

Carrying her in his embrace Arnav stood up from the recliner and made her comfortable on the bed. Tucking her in, he caressed her forehead and promised to make amends. He knew he had to ask for her forgiveness. He was ready to repent. Preparing himself for the tough times ahead the man slept beside Khushi holding her hand in his own.

###

Arnav Singh Raizada was lying comfortably on the sheet surrounded by several picnic baskets. He could hear the rest of his family playing cricket a few feet away from him. He shut his eyes for a while trying to absorb the happiness that surrounded him. It has been 3 months since Khushi's drunk confession. Arnav recalled with perfect clarity how the very next day he had exposed Shyam Manohar Jha to his family. His sister did not break down surprising everyone with her strength. The rest of the Raizadas also supported Di and his wife.

He had also confessed the sin he committed at Akaash and Payal's wedding. For the first time, Arnav Singh Raizada admitted the giant mistake he made because of his folly. 

And as all of this happened he did not waiver his gaze from Khushi Kumari Gupta. The woman did not react to his confession. For a long week, he was met with disappointment as his wife gave him the cold shoulder. When she did start talking, his brain registered only a few words. Live-in. Separation. Contract. Morals.

By the end of the next week, Khushi had left RM and her decision was supported by all the women in his family. She was not in Laxmi Nagar. And no one knew of her whereabouts. But a few days later, after a lot of persuasion on his part, his Di informed him that Khushi was living in Kanpur with a relative of hers.

And that was how the lover Arnav was born leaving no traces of ASR inside him. He kept apologizing to his wife in different ways. His methods were innovative and refreshing. Slowly, painstaking he worked his way up and one fine day Khushi Kumari Gupta blessed him with her forgiveness. He stopped his musings feeling two palms around his eyes. Chuckling at the familiar scent he pulled the person down and trapped her wrists not allowing her to move any further. Mrs Raizadas bright face greeted his vision. She giggled and squirmed in his arms.

Khushi Singh Raizada. You should be cuffed to me as punishment for being away from me for so long.

Smooching her cheek he wrapped her in his arms trying to understand how a blessing like Khushi has been bestowed on him. It makes him wonder whether God exists somewhere up there? And even if he does exist how can a man like him be gifted with a happy go lucky person like his wife. He wondered.

Arey Di ki dawai ka time hogaya tha. Aur phir thodi der humse door rehne ki aadat aapko honi chahiye Swami.

(I need to keep a track of your sisters meds. And you should know how to survive without me for a while at least, Swami).

Smirking at the endearment Arnav tickled her form till his wife apologized and promised to never call him Swami. He could still hear their family arguing in the background. However, Khushi's words about keeping his distance made his heart flutter uncomfortably.

Main pehle bhi tumse door hochuka hoon. Ab tumse door nai rehna chahta Khushi.

(Being without you is a curse which I have experienced earlier. Now no one can separate us Khushi).

Feeling her lips on his jaw the man tightened his arms around her. She was a strong woman who had not only forgiven Arnav but had also promised to stay with him for seven lives. In her embrace, he felt like the King of this world. Ready to conquer anyone. He shut his eyes again to bask in the glory of their love.

Ab kaisi doori. Ab to hum ban gaye hain 'Khushi 7 janmon ke liye Singh Raizada.'

(No. No separation. Now I am yours for seven lives).

Calm washed over Arnav Singh Raizada as I sponged on the words of my wife. I am a human who makes mistakes. And when he understood that God blessed the man with happiness. Immense happiness.

AJHS -18

Part 18

Arnav POV

Three days. It has been three days since that unfortunate incident occurred. For the rest of the Raizadas, this was simply a mistake on the part of the electrician. However, Akaash, Dhruv and I were aware that all of it was a planned, well-organized move done to throw me off guard. This was an open challenge. When D showed me the ripped snap of Khushi and me, I knew that the culprit wanted recognition for his job.

While the rest of the family was busy with the wedding preparation I was doing everything in my power to figure out what happened on the night of Akaash's engagement. While Akaash and D were taking care of the investigation process. I handed over the video recording of the event to the police. I don't have any enemies. Neither my business rivals are that desperate to face an untimely death. So the question remains unanswered. Who is responsible for this mishap? Who is trying to attack my woman?

As my device went off I rubbed a hand over my face. The chaos in my mind was too much to deal with. I stared at the caller id in relief. My girl was calling me. Khushi had no idea about what happened that night. It is wrong of me to keep her in the dark, but I do not wish to stress her further. My girl was still recovering from the shock. Trying to compose myself I stood up from the recliner and answered the call in a normal tone. 

Khushi...

Arnavji woh Vimla Maasi is here. And she is...

I could easily detect the hesitancy in her tone. Something was bothering her. What the hell is that Vimla Maasi doing at her house? Her nosy neighbours love to poke their heads where their attention is not needed. Rolling my eyes at the thought I tried my best to calm down, for the little angel of mine.

Relax sweetheart. Take a deep breath. Inhale. Exhale. Good. Now talk.

Arnavji Vimla Maasi is here, at my place. She said that her grandson, Mahesh, will return from Dubai tomorrow.

So?

Listening to her I moved toward the mirror in my room. I wore my watch on my left wrist and then began to comb my hair. I was supposed to attend a meeting with Aman soon. As I stared at my reflection one last time, Khushi's next words froze my feet. My mood turned dark. The joy of her hearing her nightingale voice vanished only to be replaced by an immense hatred from Vimla Maasi's grandson.

Arnavji Vimla Maasi gave Maheshji's proposal to Amma and Babuji. Hum dono ke rishte ke liye.

With each phrase that Khushi uttered, my anger rose to unimaginable levels. Damn it. Khushi ko sab chocolate smajhte hain kya? Everybody wants her. First that Siddharth Shukla. And now this idiot Mahesh. Ughhh. Now, this is getting out of hand. I am not gonna wait for another day. Maturity gai bhaad mein. Meeting tel lene. I will ask Di, Nani and Mami to visit Gupta's house this afternoon. There is no point in waiting for the right time.

Ab bahut hogaya Khushi Gupta. Main shaam ko aarha hoon with the Raizadas at your house. It's time to fix our wedding.

(This is too much Khushi Gupta. I will be coming with my family to the Gupta house this evening).

Rukiye...rukiye...

(Stop...stop...).

Nevertheless, I hung up on her. Throwing my comb somewhere behind me with too much force I dashed outside my bedroom door. Taking the stairs, I screamed out loud for Di and Nani. The result was instant. All my family members crept out of their room with worried looks on their faces. Their questioning glances made me smirk. But there was no time for a detailed explanation.

Di, Jeeju, Mami, Mama, Nani, Akaash, and Dhruv stood around me with raised eyebrows. I pushed my hands inside my pocket and declared my intentions to everyone present. Suffice to say different reactions greeted my sight. Shock. Surprise. Amusement. Joy. And a familiar smirk.

My brother was in shock. Mama and Mami were surprised. While Di, Jeeju and Nani displayed amusement along with joy. And Dhruv Singh Raizada lifted an eyebrow, cloning my smirk, making me chuckle.

Hello hi bye-bye? Phati saree and Arnav bitwa? When did this happen?

Bhai and marriage?!?

My Chotte will soon have little chotte's running around in the house?

I rolled my eyes at Nani's words. For grandparents, the ultimate aim of marriage is popping kids. They keep an eye on you like a hawk. Waiting for the slightest of the hints. Two phrases. Good news. Passing her a grin I simply nodded my head in a general direction answering the questions that were being fired at me. However, I did not allow myself to be distracted by the Spanish inquisition. Right now the need of the hour was being at Laxmi Nagar. Cocking my head to one side I demanded the Raizada clan to land at Khushi's place.

Before that weirdo auntie puts a claim oh Khushi I want to make things official. Aaj hi shagun wala ritual done krte hain.

(I want to be done with the first ritual today itself).

Par Chotte itni jaldi kaise...

(But so soon Chotte...)

Di I don't want any arguments. Ye deal aaj hi hojani chahiye.

(This deal should be discussed today itself).

Bhai shaadi is not a deal aap...

(Bro marriage is not a deal you...)

Flipping him the bird I took the steps two at a time dialling my manager Aman. All the preparations for tonight can be arranged by that fella. He is like a genie in my lamp. I cancelled my meetings for the day and gave him the necessary instructions. After explaining in detail what was needed I asked HP to send Dhruv and Akaash to my room.

Just because I am getting married I cannot shift my priorities. We are still blind about the attacker who almost hurt Khushi a few days ago. I did not wish to bother the rest of the family so this was supposed to be a secret meeting. Dhruv and Akaash were tight-lipped about the incident. They were simply following my orders.

With my hands across my chest, I sat on the lounge chaise on the poolside. My mind kept flashing back to the incident. Someone was trying to hurt the love of my life. Purposely. It was time to brainstorm. First, s/he knew everything about the event. Second, the person left my photo with Khushi on the floor of Shantivan, with a red cross over it. Third, he knows the girl owns my heart. As I was busy analyzing the details of the event Akaash and Dhruv flanked my sides.

Bhai CCTV footage mein kuch waiters chandelier ke aas paas dekhai diye the. They were all in a disguise. Seems like an accident ke pehle ki footage tamper krdi gai h.

(Brother the CCTV footage showed some waiters loitering around the chandelier. And the footage of the accident has been tampered with).

Fisting my palm I raised it in mid-air and then slammed it on the glass table next to the chaise. It created a loud piercing noise startling my nephew and brother. Yet again my enemy was roaming around without a care. Next, he could be at Khushi's place. Damn him. I won't let him hurt my girl. He won't get away with this, the next time he tries to pull such a stunt.

Nannav Chachu....you are bleeding.

Akaash called HP to get some ice for my bruised and bleeding knuckles. I glanced at the little man who stood beside me with a worried expression on his face. With a smirk, I rubbed the fingers of my other hand over his hair. My intention was not to scare the kid. However, Akaash knew my temper well, because he shook his head as he held the ice towel over my hand.

Akaash assign a bodyguard for Khushi. I won't take any more chances over my girl's safety.

Khushi POV

At 4 in the evening, I took a final look at the snacks and drinks that would be served to my would-be in-laws. Amma and Babuji were confused for the last few hours. After Arnavji hung up on me I told my family that the Raizadas would be visiting today. When they asked me the reason for the sudden visit I simply shrugged my shoulders acting all clueless. 

I so wanted to stop Arnavji over the phone, but I could make out the fear behind his anger. He often uses it to hide his real feelings. And Vimla Maasi loves to create a ruckus. By giving her grandson's proposal to Babuji and Amma she designed yet another obstacle in my and Arnavji's life. Henceforth I did not have the heart to postpone my man's idea of marriage.

Very soon the Raizadas were standing on the threshold of my home. And Mr Arnav Singh Raizada was dressed up in black. Clad in an Armani suit he oozed hotness with the light stubble on his face. His eyes were dancing with unusual excitement. When he glanced in my direction, I flushed looking everywhere but him. Buaji welcomed them inside while Payal gave me a perplexed look. The rituals for Jeeji's marriage would start in the next two days. So the sudden visit baffled the family.

As the Raizada clan settled in our small living room my family glanced in their direction with a confused smiles plastered on their faces. Understanding their feelings Naniji began the conversation making me gulp. My eyes met Arnavjis who simply nodded his head in assurance. Blinking in response, I moved my eyes back toward the matriarch of the Raizada family.

Madhumatiji you must be wondering why we all are here again when Payal's marriage rituals are about to begin?

Yes, Devyaniji. We were not expecting you here today. Is everything alright?

Before anyone could say something Di asked Payal to switch seats with me, making me sit beside Nani. The move bewildered Buaji. She was expecting me to handle the kitchen duties as Jeeji would be sitting with her would-be in-laws. The action made her open her mouth but Nani intervened.

I wish to have Khushi bitiya as my elder bahu. Chotte and she like each other. So we thought...

Ye aap kya keh rhi hain? Khushi aur Arnavji?!? Aap mazaak krhi hain na?

What are you saying? Khushi and Arnavji?!? You are kidding right?)

I palmed my head while glaring in Arnavjis direction. He gulped in response. Buaji'a laughter echoed in our house. Was he expecting something different? Till now Buaji has only witnessed this man harassing me, insulting me, and this very man is here in my house with a proposal. For me. Of course, Buaji would take it as a joke. A very poor joke. Ughhh. As if his errors were not enough the man startled everyone by speaking with Buaji.

Umm Buaji I made many mistakes in the past. But the truth is that I love Khushi.

Par tum dono ka to 36 ka aakda h. Aur abhi to tum sab bhul gaye ho. Ladai jhagda yaad aagaya phir kya? Chod doge kya bitiya ko?

(But you both don't get along. And you have forgotten everything. What if you remember all of it? Will you leave my daughter?)

Everybody cringed at her words. But Buaji never likes beating around the bush. Her blunt and honest approach can be terrifying at times. Amma and Babuji nodded in agreement making Arnavji stare at the floor in guilt. He knew he had done terrible things but amnesia made it difficult for him to relate. There was a curtain blocking his memories. Surprising us yet again he stood up from the sofa walking across, only to kneel in front of Babuji. Taking his palm in his own Arnavji spoke in a hoarse tone.

I promise Babuji main Khushi ko bahut khush rakhunga. Yaadasht waapas aane ke baad bhi. Waada.

(Babuji I promise to keep your Khushi happy. Even if I do remember my past. I swear).

The Raizadas and the Guptas sans Babuji held their breaths in anticipation. Only my father's answer would decide our fate now. Gulping I stared at the two most important figures of my life. My dad. And the love of my life. Devi Maiyya please saath dena. Finally, Babuji nodded his head with misty eyes making everyone cheer out loud for both the siblings. Gupta sisters. Raizada brothers. A double marriage was on the cards.

Soon after Babuji's agreement, the elders got busy discussing the various rituals and customs associated with a big fat Indian wedding. Taking her chance Jeeji moved to the kitchen and was followed by a smiling Jeeju. They were engaged and no one bothered to keep an eye on the two. Rolling my eyes I shook my head. However, the loud doorbell distracted me and I answered the door with a smile. My eyes bulged out at the sight. Vimla Maasi stood in front of me with a big thaal of gifts in her hand. Uh oh.

Khushi bitiya I am sure your parents have agreed to our proposal. See I even brought the shagun. Let me in...

Before I could say a word to her about Arnavji, the man appeared beside me wrapping his arm around my waist as if it was a regular occurrence. Vimla Maasi's eyes widened in disbelief. To make things more obvious he smooched my cheek loudly.

Khushi Di wants to discuss our wedding arrangements in detail. So why don't you come inside and sit with your would-be in-law's sweetheart?

Scarlet patches appeared on my cheeks. The PDA made me self conscious. However, Arnavji felt a little too confident after Babujis approval. I could feel the happiness radiate out of him. Vimla Maasi stood very still, gaping at our proximity. Subtly I tried to remove his hand from my waist. But the man was not in the mood to let go.

Vimla Maasi ye Arnavji, Jeeji ke Jethji. Humari shaadi inse tay hogai hai. Hum andar jaa rhe hain. Namaste.

(Vimla Maasi this is Arnavji, my Jeeji's brother in law. Our marriage has been fixed. I should be going inside. Namaste).

Leaving an astonished Vimla Maasi and a smug-looking Arnav Singh Raizada I walked back inside my home where the elders were sitting and enjoying the snacks. I was about to sit next to Buaji when she asked me to get some more pakoras from the kitchen. Smiling at everyone I moved towards the kitchen. Fuming with the anger I placed the extra pakoras on another plate and almost threw it inside the microwave. Arnavji is turning into a Romeo Singh Raizada. He never leaves a chance to flirt with me. As I stared at the timer a reflection greeted my vision. However, I did not acknowledge his presence. The ding of the microwave distracted me. But before I could do anything two bronze hands pulled the hot plate out. Stalker Singh Raizada. With a sigh, I turned around to give him a little something to hear. But he beat me to it.

Agar main Vimla Auntie ko sach nahi batata to woh uss idiot Mahesh ke naam par, shagun ki thali tumhare parents ko pakda deti.

(If I had not said the truth to Vimla Auntie she would have passed down that shagun thaal to your parents).

To aap muh se bta dete unko. Idhar udhar haath lgane ki kya zarurat thi. Unka chehra dekha tha?

(You could have used your mouth for that. Who asked you to get so touchy-feely huh? You should have seen her face).

Saying my bit I skirted around him to leave the kitchen when suddenly a hand thrust forward to hold my elbow. The unexpected touch made me shiver. I raised my brow just like him. He smirked a little at the familiar gesture. Chuckling a little the man rubbed his nose with mine. His actions caused my heart to beat like a machine gun.

Log ishare zyada jaldi samajhte hain Ms Gupta. Just look at your red nose right now? Touch makes things obvious. Nahi smjhi? Koi nai shaadi ke baad main samjha doonga.

(People understand gestures rather quickly. Just look at your red nose right now? Touch makes things obvious. You do not get it? No problem I will explain the details after our wedding).

Hawwwww!!! Did he just suggest what I think he did? Winking in my direction he left while I stood in the empty kitchen like a fool. My face looked like a huge tomato.  How can he say such things? Shaadi pakki hone pe ye haal hai. Khushi Kumari Gupta tu to gai kaam se. Raksha krna Devi Maiyya. Shaking my head I walked outside to join the rest of the family. Marriage with this Raizada would certainly be an adventure.

Arnav POV

We returned from Khushi's place in the evening. Everyone kept talking about the upcoming rituals throughout dinner. I could not tolerate the noise anymore and chose to retire to my room. After a quick shower, I did my nightly meditation and slowly succumbed to sleep. However, my peace and happiness did not last too long.

Fear slammed my insides. As if a liquid had gone down the wrong pipe. It was too dark around. I tried to breathe but the fog around me made it difficult. I looked below. My feet were stuck. No matter how hard I tried to move them, nothing changed.

Aapne humari Payal apne paas kyun rakhi?

(Why did you keep my Payal with you?)

Koi matlab nai hai.

(It means nothing).

Khushi standing with a look of helplessness clad in a red saree, voiced out her thoughts. She could not hide the vulnerability in her tone. I was stuck in a horrible nightmare. No matter how hard I tried to scream for her no sound came out of my mouth. But somehow I could sense more. 

A running engine. My feet pushed the brakes vigorously. My hands gripping the steering wheels. Another sound registered in my ears. A truck approaching my way. The beaming headlights blurred my vision. A gasp. A loud horn and bang. My shoulder took the brunt of the collision. The piercing pain is evidence of the same. My sight returned.  My car spun like a hot wheels toy, due to the unexpected action. And then everything faded into darkness.

My eyes fluttered open in fear. My heart thundered inside my chest. I moved my hand towards my heart only to feel that I was drenched in sweat. I could feel a dull pain in my shoulder. Damn it I slept in the wrong position again. I sat up in my bed and glanced at the wall clock. 3 am. 

My mind was lost. I could still remember the nightmare. But this one felt like a memory. A dark moment in my life. A moment where I disappointed Khushi in the worst possible way and then the almighty punished me for the same. Only one woman can solve this puzzle for me. My soon to wife.

Khushi...

Precap: Amidst the wedding rituals Arnav tries to know more about the Diwali night from Khushi.

Shyam Malik plans his second move. NK and Lavanya receive the wedding invite.

AJHS - 17

Part 17

Shyam POV

Finally, after weeks of planning, I felt a sense of satisfaction inside my soul. I, Shyam Manohar Mallik, son of the deceased Arwind Mallik and the former owner of Sheesh Mahal. My plans were set in motion. Tonight on the engagement of Akaash Singh Raizada, I would hurt ASR in the worst possible manner. I would make him pay by causing pain to the love of his life. Khushi Kumari Gupta. 

If the accident and the amnesia failed to do their job then the impending doom of Khushi Gupta will destroy the man who snatched my father's pride. And this is just the beginning Arnav Raizada. Now you will understand what it feels like to watch your loved ones suffer. The excruciating pain will push you on a roller coaster of emotions. And trust me the ride is not a pleasant one. 

Drinking the last sip of my wine I sat on the leather chair in my warehouse. My eyes swept toward the wall clock which showed that I still had a few hours to wait. Soon this afternoon will end. And from this evening onwards ASR would feel a small degree of fear. A fear that will continue to escalate with time.

Cheers Dad. Tonight on the occasion of your birthday, I will give you the first instalment of your gift. 

Khushi POV

I had been in love with Arnav Singh Raizada for a while. It all started when I was a mere employee, working for the Raizadas. My job was to train Lavanya Kashyap, the would-be wife of ASR. But all of that training took place in Shantivan. The home of Arnav Raizada. Naturally, I could never avoid the man. He was always around. 

It all began when suddenly Arnav started peeking through the thick curtains around ASR. And I observed the softer side of Arnav Singh Raizada. His beautiful laugh. The comfort of his arms. The way he saved me from certain mishaps. Like the time when Arnavji saved me from those goons in Nainital. Or when he chose to protect me from a wax burn rather than his girlfriend who fell from a stool hurting her elbow. My saviour kept filtering in through the drapes of his cold exterior. 

I shook my head, feeling tears sprout in my eyes. I did fall in love. The proof of my folly was the Diwali incident. I kept wondering why I did what I did. How could I fall for him of all the people? Our story was surrounded by bitterness and malice and anger and spite. My broken heart - the aftermath of Diwali. After being hurt repeatedly I decided to bury those feelings for the rest of my life. And then the unthinkable happened...

Khushi hurry up. Our cab is here. Let us go. We are running late for Payalia's engagement.

I blinked in assurance through the mirror as Buaji left my room. I quickly draped the white dupatta across my neck. I stared at my reflection with keen eyes. I could see a girl dressed in a beautiful white lehenga and blue blouse. A gift from the Raizadas. Although I knew who chose this particular outfit for me. 

A few minutes later, Buaji, Jeeji, Amma Babuji and I were seated in the cab which was heading to the Raizada Mansion. My parents had returned from Lucknow last night. Jeeji's engagement was an important event that no one wanted to miss. As we moved along with the traffic my mind drifted back to the thoughts of Arnav Singh Raizada.

When I was trying to heal my broken heart, the unthinkable happened. He bounced back into my life as if nothing major had happened between us. It took me a while to understand that Arnav was not playing games with me. The man had been through a lot of physical and emotional trauma. His accident changed him. Retrograde amnesia changed him. I finally saw the man who loved playing peek a boo with me. A vulnerable and kind-hearted Arnavji. The same man who now loves me to death. 

I gasped as our cab came to a stop. Shantivan was decorated like a new bride. The shimmering lights. The heavy floral arrangements. And a thick path filled with red roses for our warm welcome. I followed my family inside the Raizada house.

And now after crossing so many hurdles Mr Arnav Singh Raizada wants me to say the one thing that I have been avoiding for so long. He wants my confession. He is hellbent on getting one by tonight. My train of thought was interrupted by Anjaliji and Naniji who welcomed me with great enthusiasm and a knowing look. I stuttered a quick greeting with a red face, recalling how they had seen Arnavji and me together in the hospital when he was shot. They knew that we were a couple. Highly embarrassed I excused myself on the pretext of using the washroom.

But I never made it to the washroom because out of the blue a hand snaked around my waist pulling me inside one of the guest rooms down the hall. And suddenly I found my back against a wall with two arms shackling my personal space. I sighed out loud showing my displeasure. But the man had no intentions to move. A pair of molten brown eyes locked me in place.

Raasta chodiye.

(Get out of my way).

Pehle I Love You bolo.

(First, give me your confession).

Koi zabardasti hai.

(You cannot force me).

Haan hai.

(Yes I can).

Rolling my eyes at him I pushed him away and tried to leave the room. The keyword is being tried because as soon as I skirted around his presence the man dashed to the door blocking it with his frame. I gulped watching his stance. He appeared quite dashing in the Kurta, gifted by my father. He paired it with dark blue denim. And the stubbled look did not make it easy for me to deny him anything.

I placed my hands on my hips lifting my eyebrows at his juvenile behaviour. Who would have thought that one day a cruel beast like ASR would act like a stubborn 2-year-old to get what he wants? But it was a wrong move on my part as his eyes followed my hands. I flustered a little as he eyed my midriff in fascination. Crossing my hands below my chest I tried to hide my bare stomach. However, his eyes never left my petite waist. Annoyed by the act I voiced out my irritation.

My eyes are up here Mr Raizada.

I know. I was simply admiring the...view.

I trembled hearing the huskiness in his voice. With his hands behind him, he moved, smooth and quick like an animal. Making me feel like a prey who stood at the wrong place at the wrong time. Scarlet patches blazed furiously on my cheeks. Like a dear caught in headlights, I retreated. Arnavji gauged my expression for a second before he prowled in my direction. Like a synchronized dance we kept moving further and further inside the room. Forward. Backward. 

 Arnav POV

After months of running behind the woman of my dreams, I now desired only one thing. A confession from Khushi. Three simple words. But my stubborn girlfriend was in no mood to declare her feelings. I cornered her in the guest room and tried to lean in her personal space. However, she continued to overpower me with her strong headedness. 

I had no choice but to block Khushi Gupta when she tried to leave. Her anger fueled a strange excitement inside me. And the hands beside her midriff were only making me see the obvious. Her exotic self. Like a moth to a flame, I covered the distance between us. However, our sensuous dance came to a sudden halt when the lights went off for a while.

ARNAVJI!!!

I rushed towards hers blindly. It did not take long for her to descend on me, like a vulture on an abandoned carcass. Her small fragile hands held down my torso while her forehead touched my collarbone.

Shhhhhhh. Relax. We have a backup. Just wait for a minute.

I covered her face with frenetic kisses while she worriedly ran her hands over my face and shoulders. I could sense a shift in her shivering frame. My words, my touch, reassured her to an extent I presume. When the lights did not turn on immediately I knew there was a technical issue that might take longer to be solved. I caressed her hair trying my best to calm my woman.

Humein andhere se bahut darr lagta hai. Bahut suffocation hoti hai.

(I am afraid of darkness. The feeling suffocates me).

Shhhh. Kuch mat socho. Bas ye socho ki tum mere sath ho. Kisi achi jagah. Jahan sirf hum dono hai. Aur dher sara suqoon. Warna chaaho to mentally rehearse

kar skti ho.

(Don't think. Just focus on this moment that you are sharing with me. Just us. And a calm atmosphere. Or else you could rehearse in mind).

Kya?

(What?)

Wohi I Love You.

(I Love You).

Arnavjiiii! Aap tote ki tarah ek hi ratni kyun lagaye huye hain?

(Arnavjiiii! Why are you repeating the same thing again and again like a talking parrot?)

What the!! Did you just call me a parrot?

The lights came back brightening up the room. We looked pretty hilarious wrapped up in an embrace bantering like enemies who just needed another reason to punch the other one's face. Getting out of my embrace she walked out of the bedroom but not before giving me a fake smile. As if she was stating the obvious.

How dare she? I will show her that I am not a parrot but ASR. The calculative and controlling businessman. Following her out with a smirk of my own I joined the rest of our family. Thankfully no one noticed our absence. Everyone was too busy teasing Akaash and Payal. Except for the little Raizada who stood behind me with a knowing smile.

What? Why are you smiling?

Dil e naadan tujhe hua kya hai. Aakhir iss marz ki dawa kya hai.

(A poetry on new love and lovebirds).

Di, Jeeju and Nani laughed out loud at Dhruv Singh Raizada's Shayri. While Akaash and Payal blushed. Since it was their day no one understood the fact that this jab was for me and not Akaash. But I had to chuckle when Khushi coughed up the juice that she was enjoying so wholeheartedly. She must have heard him too.

Time moved rather quickly. As per our family priest, 7.30 was an auspicious time to get engaged. The rings were exchanged and everyone congratulated the couple. I too gave my best wishes to both of them. Payal simply nodded. I knew she still hated my guts. Though Khushi had forgiven me her family was still wary of me. Only Shashi Uncle greeted me with genuine enthusiasm. And I know he is not aware of the sins that I have committed in the past. Casting my gaze away from the Guptas I turned to see Jeeju addressing the audience. He asked everyone to join Payal and Akaash for their first dance as an engaged couple. 

Shyam POV

Disguised as a waiter I stood in one corner of the Raizada hall watching everyone dance. I felt really happy watching Arnav Singh Raizada dance with her woman. Khushi Kumari Gupta. She is certainly beautiful. Sadly, I have to keep hurting her. Unfortunately, she holds Arnav Raizada's heart. My nemesis. 

With a smile, I glanced upwards. The huge chandelier that hung on the ceiling was very loose at the moment because a few minutes ago I made sure that this thing would fall. I only had to push down the power lever for the lights to go off. My men made sure that the rope around the chandelier burned rapidly. Any minute now the huge decoration would fall on the beautiful Khushi Gupta since she alone stood at the centre arguing with Arnav Singh Raizada. Her timing is perfect. As the music went off, everyone left one by one to start the dinner.

I pulled out the picture of ASR and Khushi which had a huge X on them. Passing the couple an evil smile I ripped the photograph into two and left the mansion. But before I drove away my ears were greeted by a huge thud noise. Screams could be heard from the mansion. But the most piercing and bone-chilling of all were of my enemy. Arnav Singh Raizada.

KHUSHIIIIIII.....

Happy birthday Papa.

This would be my first gift to him. Implanting fear inside the cold-blooded ASR.

Dhruv POV

According to Pops, our instincts can never be wrong. Hence I am always on alert. So imagine my surprise when a weird-looking burnt piece of something fell in my glass of juice. At first, I ignored it. Music began and couples danced along with my newly engaged Chachu and Chachi. I placed the juice on the nearby table and kept watching everyone dance happily. But that thing in my juice kept flashing in my mind like a neon sign.

A few minutes passed and unable to control my curiosity I picked up the abandoned glass of juice. Using a spoon I pulled out that black thing. What is this? When I examined the piece I could smell orange juice and a burnt material? On close inspection, I found what I have been holding all along. A rope. A broken burnt piece of rope.

My mind suddenly flashed back to the moment when as soon as the lights came back a man had rushed out of the busy hall holding a ladder. Mamiji had questioned him but he had explained rather quickly. I could only make out the words chandelier, heavy power consumption, voltage, and fuse. 

Realization dawned upon me. My eyes flew up to see the huge chandelier on the ceiling, about to fall any second. And directly below the chandelier stood Khushi Maam arguing with Nannav Chachu silently through gestures, who was a few feet away from her.

Wanting to control the disaster ASAP, I screeched in their direction making them twirl around to face me. Reaching Chachu I clutched his hands and explained to him about the impending disaster. I saw different emotions appear on his face in a matter of seconds. Confusion. Shock. Fear. Anger. Worry. For a minute he locked eyes with Khushi Maam. But before any of us could control the situation, the chandelier shook for the final time and descended towards the woman who had become the world of my Uncle.

Everyone shouted out loud. It was a cacophony of noises. Frightened by the turn of events the guests retreated to the other side of the hall, for their safety. Chachu released a terrifying scream as he dashed ahead to grab Khushi Maam. Within seconds Nannav Chachu pulled her to a safe distance and she narrowly escaped the gigantic chandler. The loud noise of bulbs and glasses echoed around the hall. From huge chunks to micro pieces, the broken light decoration was littered all over the huge living room of RM.

KHUSHI TUM THEEK HO?!? KHUSHI??! 

(KHUSHI ARE YOU ALRIGHT?!? KHUSHI?)

Chachu shouted at my teacher,  who did not utter a single word. The desperation on my Uncle's face made me sad. A few seconds later Ms Gupta fainted in his arms. I wanted to help them. As I rushed towards them, my shoe made a weird noise. I saw the rest of our family crowding Chachu. Assured by their presence I pulled my foot aside to see a ripped photograph. In my peripheral vision, I noticed Chachu carrying Khushi Maam up the stairs. Out of curiosity, I picked up the two pieces. 

My eyes touched my forehead as I clutched the photograph of Nannav Chachu and my teacher holding hands. But the most mind-boggling thing of all was the red cross over both their faces. A cold shiver ran down my spine. Shellshocked I now grasped the significance of this picture. This was not an unexpected accident. This was planned. Organized. And most importantly, the attacker desires to be acknowledged. This snap is clear evidence of the same. I need to have a word with Chachu.

Arnav POV

I did not feel fear very often. But yes the unknown has always frightened me. My past. The nightmares of my accident. The feeling of emptiness. However, this time I did not feel scared. Rather I was petrified. Not for me. For her. She is too precious. She is my heart. Meri dhadkan. Meri Khushi.

(My heartbeat. My Khushi).

I paced back and forth outside my room as the doctor treated Khushi Kumari Gupta. Our families also stood nearby. Everyone was shaken up by the chandelier incident. However, my heartbeat escalated to alarming rates with every passing minute. Everyone was having a gala time a while ago. Khushi was dancing in my arms with a frown on her face as I kept badgering her about the three words. And then the mishap occurred leaving all of us breathless.

Why? Why am I such an idiot? What is so damn important in those words? I should have given her more time. God, I feel so helpless. Please wake up Khushi. Please wake up. I promise I won't annoy you anymore. The self-loathing distressed me.

I should have been more alert. Buaji I am such a bad sister. I was so wrapped up in my bubble of happiness with Akaash that I forgot about my sister.

Payals words disrupted my thoughts. She felt guilty for not paying attention to her baby sister. But she was wrong. I was responsible for this mishap. Only me. However, before anyone could console her Buaji took the blame for the accident. 

No. This is my fault. This is my brother's fault. We are the elders. We are supposed to keep a check on everyone. Khushi is our responsibility. 

As everyone tried to calm Payal and her Buaji, the doctor came out of my room. Racing towards her I enquired everything about my girl. However, she simply shushed me. According to the doctor, the shock of the incident made her body pass out. A reaction to an action. All of us sighed in relief. I was about to enter my room to see Khushi when Payal said declared that she would like to take her sister home.

NO.

What?

Everyone stared in my direction as if I has grown another head. Damn it. Now is not the time to make announcements. I won't reveal a thing without Khushi's consent. Now, what to do. Think logically. Are you not the ASR? Taking a deep breath I crossed my hands across my chest and glanced toward a confused Payal.

Listen Payal, I think it would not be a good idea to take your sister home, right now. Let her rest here. In fact, why don't you and Khushi stay here for the night? 

At first, the Guptas protested. They were against the idea of letting the two girls stay in the Raizada house. But then Di and Nani came to my rescue. And after a lot of promises and reassurance, the family agreed to my proposal. Ahhh. Proposal. I wish this were in a different context altogether.

A few hours later I found myself sitting on the gazebo in my backyard. The sky appeared to be dark tonight. There were no stars around. The gloominess of the night seemed to affect my mood. Yesterday I was making plans about how to make Khushi Kumari Gupta confess her love for me. However, the disastrous event at Akaash's engagement party shook me to the core. My mind kept flashing the scenes of a stunt and horrified Khushi as I saved her. My heartbeat resembled a hummingbird's wings. Whatever occurred during the party did not make sense. 

But the most vital question is how the hell did such a strong and sturdy decoration fall from the ceiling? The huge chandelier had been in Shantivan for years. Then how come the thing lost its grip?

I rubbed my face, perplexed by the incident when a familiar voice startled me.

Nannav Chachu?

Dhruv Singh Raizada sat next to me on the lower step of the gazebo while staring into my eyes with a look of fear. Something did not feel right. I have known for a while that nothing scares this kid. He was playing with his fingers. A clear cut sign of nervousness. His body language screamed trouble.

What is it D?

I think whatever happened with Khushi Maam....was planned.

As soon as those words left his mouth I felt a huge amount of rage consume me. My jaw clenched, while I fisted my palm to the point that I drew blood out of my skin. Someone was trying to hurt the girl I love. Someone was deliberating trying to snatch my happiness. Standing upright I cocked my head in his direction. He slowly pulled out something from the back pocket of his jeans. A photo. It was me holding Khushi's hand in the restaurant of Agra where we enjoyed our last date. Our faces were crossed with a red marker.

Start talking Dhruv.

Khushi POV

Jeeji was fast asleep beside me but I was lying on the other side of the bed, wide awake, in Arnavjis room. He had asked Jeeji to stay back with me at Shantivan till tomorrow morning. He had convinced my family using his logical thinking without giving them an idea of our closeness.

This morning I was worried about Arnavji's challenge. I had planned to ignore him at Jeeji's engagement party. My mind was far away from giving him any sort of confession. We never really got the chance to argue much about saying those 3 special words. The chandelier almost fell on me. Almost. However, nothing happened to me, because my saviour was next to me in a jiffy. He had pushed me out of the way.

Arnav Singh Raizada has changed. He is not that cold-hearted beast who loved to destroy my self-confidence. Arnavji saved me tonight. And he did not even mention anything about our challenge after that. The man also ensured that I would sleep in his room till I feel somewhat better.

Woh humse bahut pyaar karte hain. He suffered so much. First his accident. Then being diagnosed with Retrograde Amnesia. And if that was not enough he took a bullet and almost died. Ab bahut hogaya. Ab Arnavji aur nahi sahenge. Hum aaj aur abhi unse apni dil ki baat kahenge Devi Maiyya.

( He loves me a lot. Now I won't keep my love waiting for long. Today itself I will confess my feelings to Arnavji).

Determined to bear my heart to the most compassionate human being, I sauntered outside the room to look for my Arnavji.

While walking down the stairs I recalled our cute nokjhok at the party. He had cornered me in one of the guest rooms. We were arguing like stupid 2-year-olds. The moment flashed before my eyes.

Raasta chodiye.

Pehle I Love You bolo.

Koi zabardasti hai.

Haan hai.

Chuckling at my childishness I kept wandering in the house, in hopes of meeting the love of my life. Devi Maiyya kaash Arnavji jaage huye hon aur humein yahan mil jaaye, please. Fortunately, my prayers were answered in a few minutes as I saw him pacing, through the glassed doors beside the hall. However, I could feel that something was majorly wrong. The frown around his brows made me wonder about the cause of Arnavji's worries. His expressions reminded me of our time in Nanital, when he had bashed those goons to protect me.

I walked in through the open doors, at the same time as his footfalls came to a halt. He probably sensed me like usual. Surprise laced his features. My unexpected presence baffled him. But before I could even move a step Arnavji stood towering over me with a look of love and anger.

What the hell Khushi Kumari Gupta? What are you doing here at this time? You are supposed to be resting in my room. Did I not make it clear enough...

Not allowing him to complete I snaked my arms around him pulling him in a warm embrace. For a while, he stood still shocked by my act. However, I kept caressing his back lovingly. A minute later he surrendered and folded me in his arms. His hold was tight as if the mere idea of letting go would make him lose me.

Aap theek ho?

(Are you alright?)

Nahi. Baat tumhari hai. Main theek kaise hosakta hoon Khushi.

(No. This is about you. You cannot expect me to be ok Khushi).

Loosening his grip he cupped my face and rubbed his thumb over my reddened cheek. His touch made me shiver. I could still see the worry reflect in his orbs. Wanting to please him I said the words to him. And my timing was perfect because the dazzling smile that followed my words made me sigh in relief. 

I love you Arnavji. I won't leave your side. Ever.

I was expecting a playful smirk or an instant response. But what I did not expect was a passionate kiss. Surrounded by his touch I felt like floating in the air. His kiss spoke volumes. Tons of emotions greeted me. Love. Happiness. Worry. Fear. Determination. His lips kept moving along mine. Only when I felt the need for oxygen, did Arnavji let go of me? Breathless we held each other. 

I love you to the point of madness Khushi. And I am not gonna wait for something else to happen. I want to get married to you.

Chuckling at his fierce and determined looks I nodded with the same enthusiasm. Life is too short for regrets and what. Now that I know that Arnav Singh Raizada is mine, there is no point in delaying the event. Rubbing the frown between his eyebrows I gave him my answer.

Jeeji aur Jeeju ke sath double wedding krlete hain Arnavji. Idea kaisa laga?

(Let us have a double wedding with our siblings, Arnavji. How is the idea?)

He ran high on emotions. I could see the surprise register on his face. My previous trust issues had made him too vulnerable. I am sure he must have expected an outright rejection from me. But after today's event, I don't think I cannot take any more risks. If we are meant to be then there is no point in delaying our forever. Suddenly a full-fledged smile replaced Arnavji's expression. Leaning his forehead against mine he announced something in a hoarse voice.

Perfect idea hai Khushi Kumari Gupta soon to be Raizada.

.

.

.

.

Precap: double wedding preparations, investigation about chandelier mishap.