OS – Six month marriage but partners for life-

 

Six month marriage but partners for life

It had been five years -their marriage contract hand come to an end -six months had finished and Shyam Jha was out of Anjali’s life- forever. She would rebuild her life with a lot of help and support from her family.
Why was Khushi still around -six months? that’s what he had stated – she had tried to be their for him but she had felt the pain and hostility from Di. This was Di’s home and as long as Di was not happy Arnav wouldn’t be happy and as long as Arnav wasn’t happy -how could she ever be happy – there was only one way forward she had to make the decision- she had to cut ties with the whole family. She had to leave for them to heal. He had told her six months and never altered that contract-for Arnav a deal was always a deal.
Khushi made one of her hardest heartbreaking decisions -she would leave -disappear for the sake of everyone concerned, it was better for her heart to break than to slowly see those around her suffer.Once she left Di, would get better quickly and Arnav would be happy. The entire family , nani ji , mani ji, Akash juju, jiji they would all be happy . Was her happiness more important than six other people. She was the daily reminder of what Shyam had done to their families.
Khushi packed her bags with the things that she had entered Raizad mansion with and left. She left behind all traces of Khushi Riazada ,the only two pieces of jewellery she took that Arnav had give her -was her wedding band and her mangle sutra. Every other piece she left behind.

A short note to Arnav to say their six months contract was at an end ,she had left as she had entered with nothing extra -he would find all the jewellery and clothes in her cupboard.
He could tell the family she felt she needed a break from everything that reminded her os Shyan Jha.

With that Khushi disappeared from all their lives , she wiped out all evidence of herself. She left no trace of herself.

Khushi had left a trail across Dehli of crisscross between buses and trains and then nothing the trail was dead.
x——————————————————————————————————————————x

Six years had come and gone. They said time healed old wounds but for Khushi and Arnav the wounds were still raw. The only difference time had made was acceptance.
Arnav had understood a longtime ago that Khushi had left him; he was to blame .Arnav had decided to come clean about his marriage to Khushi, with his family ,finishing off with the fact he really loved her and the six month contract had slipped from his mind -forgotten -as it was inconsequential . He felt after his kidnapping she understood the depth of his feeling -but it was evident that she had not. Arnav had told both families the truth -he didn’t want Khushi name being sullied anymore than she already had been. The responsibility for this mess lay firmly at his door and no one else’s.

Anger turned to grief and finally acceptance as everyone realised that there was no finding Khushi.
Arnav knew that life carried on and Khushi’s case was still open with the private investigator that he had hired to track her down.

The family knew that Khushi was alive because of the gifts that arrived for the family, a letter always came with the gifts, addressed to Payal telling them that she was doing fine. It was always general what she been up to what she had eaten there was detail but no detail.Not enough to locate her. The parcel was usually delivered by a random auto rickshaw to deliver it.
Arnav would ask Payal for the letters to re read them over and over again.

 

Khushi had managed her life by herself, for the last six years. She was no longer the happy-go-lucky care free person she had once been. The trials that she had, had to endure over the last six years while she established herself and re-invented herself had slowly been wearing away at her.
Now she was here parked outside Raizada Mansion contemplating entry.
Six years were a long time to be off their radar now she was back, she needed help. She needed Arnav’s help and money. She had nowhere to turn to, no one to ask. All her avenues were exhausted. Would he help her ? He would scream at her, she would have to deal with his temper , he would be angry , he might try to strike up a deal but if she asked for help he would give it,of that much she was certain.

She didn’t know how to even begin, ring him ? ask at the gate to be let in ? Walk up the drive through security . The heat in the car was stifling she had opened a window as she sat there lost in her world of thoughts.She had had the courage to come here she might as well get it over and done with. Her palms were sweating and it wasn’t anything to do with the heat of the day. She was not sure herself if it was fear or nervousness. She was fast running out of time ,she had been there an hour now.
The phone rang “ Khushi Bitia they are waiting on confirmation, they are running out of time – are you having problems raising the money?”
“No uncle ji the money will be transferred as soon as i can arrange it ,it will take a little time , I am here now -please tell them to go ahead- tell them Mr Raizada will be arranging the transfer.”
“Bitia please speak to the lady yourself.”
“Hello …I understand what hospital policy is ….the money will be transferred as soon as physically possible ….the guarantor …will be Mr Arnav Singh Raizada of AR designs and Business enterprises……..What do you mean anyone could say that … “
Defeated Khushi said “I will be there in an hour with the money”

She dialled Arnav’s number from her cell.
“hello ASR’s phone can I take a message ?”
“Aman “….Khushi ’s voice was barely audible
“I’m sorry, you have me at a disadvantage, you recognise me but I am sorry I can’t say the same for you”
“ARS is …is …he available or in a meeting …if so how long will be -this is urgent”
“Well he is in a meeting and will be un contactable for at least a couple of hours. May I know who is calling and I will certainly ask him to call you you back at his earliest convenience”
“Aman ….I need his help now not in a couple of hours …it might be too late “
“Maybe I can help you ?”
“Aman I need to transfer twenty lakhs cash now -can you authorise it?”
“Not without ASR’s permission”
“Aman ….this is Khushi…hello ….hello…are you there ? …hello?”
Aman had dropped he phone in shock and then had to recover quickly .
“Err hello Bhabhi -don’t go anywhere . I am just going to sort out your call -first what is your number? Secondly where do you need the money and if you text over the bank details I will get the money transfer organised”
Aman took Khushi ’s number and dialled it through his phone.
“Aman are you calling me ?”
“yes i’m making sure I have taken the number correctly do you have the bank details ?’
“Aman I will get them and ring you back shortly “
“Please don’t hang up put me on hold while you …”
“Aman I need the money , I will call back”
Staff that saw him thought he had gone mad as he ran at full speed racing up a flight of stairs to get to the conference rooms.
Knocking and entering “Sorry to interrupt but this is an absolute emergency please can you come with me sir”
Arnav was about to interrupt “Sir it’s a family emergency”
That was all the warning Arnav needed. Everyone knew the man of ice, the master of negotiation was completely malleable when it came to his family.
They had seen their employer reduced to all fours when his niece and nephew visited and decided that he was their method of transport.
“Aman what’s wrong ?”
“Sir your office first!”
The tone in Aman’s voice was enough to warn Arnav not to ask any further questions till they had reached the privacy of their office.
As soon as the door was shut -“start talking Aman”
‘Sit down and let me begin “
I just received a call… and his phone rang again “hello… yes …let me get a pen …”
“Aman cut the line “
“Sir this is the call I was talking about ..”
Aman took the details “I will sort this out in the next fifteen minutes can you meet me in the next half hour at the Hyatt ?”
“Ok you name the place I will meet you there …the time the place just name it bhabhi…”
Aman heard the quick intake of breath by Arnav.
Aman had only ever called one individual Bhabhi -Khushi….surely not after all this time …out of the blue.
Arnav hung on every word that Aman was saying not interrupting.
“Bhabhi , I can’t transfer this kind of money without your signature the money will go into a holding account so that the people will know it’s there but without your signature or ASR signature,I can’t release it. I’ll bring the documents to you for signing just name the place”
Initially Arnav had been confused about Aman’s statement but then understood , he was not letting Khushi go without a meeting face to face.
Arnav didn’t realise that he had been holding his breath till he saw Aman scribble an address down on a piece of paper –
“Bhahbi I ‘ll be there with the documents in half an hour…..I will tell Arnav as soon as possible…Bhabi …where are you know ? where have you been ….and why now ?”
“Ok no questions ….I’ll bring the documents over …..You want to talk to Arnav first …..OK “
“Explain Aman now “
Aman explained about the original call to his phone and the call for the money.
“Money ?”
“I need to transfer twenty lakhs to this sort code with this reference -Arnav its a hospital they are waiting on it for emergency surgery -what ever we do we need to transfer the money. Bhabhi would not ask unless it was urgent ….”
“This is all hers anyway transfer whatever she needs and give me the address I’ll go and meet her”
“Arnav – we have been friends a long time and I know how you have suffered over the years without her …control your temper …what ever the reason then and now she will have an explanation ….you need to hear it without exploding.”
“You’re a true and loyal friend – I will listen…get the private investigators onto her, I want her followed 24/7 incase she decides to run …..and don’t let anyone else know that Khushi is back. There is no need to break even more hearts if it is her intention to disappear “
“Arnav ….listen to her …not just her words …..just like you read the business opposition you read everything about them …read her body language ….good luck “
x——————————————————————————————————————————x

Arnav arrived not knowing what to expect, He didn’t know so he said his name to start with -“Hell ,excuse me , I’m Mr Raizada ..I’m ..here to…”
“Oh I know, I just told some one ,he is in surgery now and the family has been allocated to a waiting are on the fourth floor.
“Thankyou”
Arnav pushed the button for the fourth floor the elevators shut taking him upwards -his mind was being pounded from every direction possible. Khushi was back -just like that someone needed a transplant that was evident from the money and surroundings -his name was recognised so she must have left a message for him. Who was being operated on -who would come to mean so much to her that she would come back to him, unannounced -knowing he would never refuse her. Arnav felt the pang of jealousy -a man , her lover ? She had come to him to save her lover!. Then Arnav took a deep breath and let it out slowly Aman had said think it through with a cool mind-no anger. She was his Khushi -she was still married to him even after all these years. She would be faithful to him to the end that much he knew -so this man had to be a friend some one who meant the world to her or a pure stranger -Khushi was like that . She would lay down her life for a perfect stranger. That much he could vouch for. So this man was being operated on meant something to her but he would not be her lover -of that much he was certain.
Arnav stepped out of the elevator and looked for the waiting room.
He saw her her head in an old man’s lap. He stroked her hair soothingly while tears trickled down her face. Her eyes were shut but the tears were evident. She looked tired and dare he say it haggard and older.
His heart contracted with love -all the pain,fear and anger he had felt for being abandoned all those years ago left him -the only thing he knew was that he stilled loved her. Whatever the reason for her needing him he didn’t care -she was back and it was up to him to convince her the only right decision that existed was for her to stay for them to re start their lives as one. Husband and wife.

“Khushi”
Khushi eyes flew opened and she stared at Arnav.
What did she really expect ,for her existence to go on untouched by him. She knew that that he would want answers. He was owed answers. He deserved to know what was going on in there.
“Baba – this is Arnav “
“Hello son , do you want me to stay Khushi, or should I get myself some tea and a bite to eat, call me if you need me or if there are any changes, I will be in the canteen he is going to be in there for a few hours. I only ask one thing son … see this mess through her eyes ….she had very little choice then ….and now. But I say god moves in mysterious ways -a new lease of life is being bestowed on my child and I think ..NO Khushi let me say it …i think this could be his way of allowing new beginnings for all of you”
“Khushi its been a long time -five years three months and four days”
“You’ve been counting ?”
“Every second without you ..”
“I had to leave then”
“What about now ?”
“That depends?”
“On what or who ? Arnav pointed to the doors that stated no entry , authorised personal only”
“On you Arnav ….I left you…about five years ago..”
“five years three months and four days”
“Do you always have to be so precise ..”
“As I was saying I left you -our contract ended ..”
“Damn you, Khushi ! you know that the contract meant nothing after everything we had been through”
“Arnav, Di needed time…everybody needed time to deal with Shyam and his duplicity. Di needed time to forgive and heal without me staring in her face-a constant reminder of what might have been ”
“Point taken but you could have called …it took you -five years three months and four days to call and that too when you needed money….money that was always yours ….still is today”
“I thought I ‘d call you in a few months but then things changed ….and the longer I left it ,the harder it got and then things changed ….and then things, they really changed. It really got complicated that…that i couldn’t come back. I couldn’t make things worse for you.”
“How did things get complicated?”
Khushi stood up and was walking to and fro. Fidgeting . She twisted the corner of her dupatta.
“Oh Khushi don’t tell me you were pregnant!”
Arnav saw her eyes widen and her pupils dilated , oh my god , he had just said that in jest …because of the absurdity of the idea …it couldn’t be true …for the last four and a half years he had a child one whom existence he had never known of.
Arnav voice was hoarse with emotion ,his throat felt dry ,his tongue stuck to the roof of his mouth
“Khushi ….do …we…have …a.child?”
All Khushi could do was nod as more tears flowed as she looked towards the doors that said no admittance.
“is he or she in there ?”
All Khushi could do was nod…she saw all the emotions fly through his eyes , disbelief , sorrow and finally anger.Those eyes had almost turned black with anger his fist struck the table making Khushi jump in fear. She watched him clench his fists and turn round and walk out …leaving Khushi standing alone.
What had she really expected ? Happy family reunion ?forgiveness?would he ever understand why she had left and why she couldn’t return ? If she had had the kind of money needed for the operation she would have come after the operation. But what now -she didn’t have enough she had saved a substantial amount but the continual ongoing cost of keeping her son alive had eaten into her savings especially the last hospitalisation.
Opportunity arose she had to give her son the chance irrespective of personal cost to either of them.
Khushi felt the floodgates of emotion on top of what she was already coping with she felt as though she was going to explode
She called her Baba “please come “
An elderley man stood up and waited for the elevator as the doors opened he entered.
“Leaving already -son?”
Arnav looked at the elderly man and nodded.
“have you heard her whole story ? or only the part you ant to hear ? Do you not want to know what she has done for the last five years and how she has coped with evey thing that fate has thrown at her. I have to go to her she needs me -but it should be you holding her hand ….why don’t you come back with me”
“I need some fresh air “
“She needs you -not me -she always has and always will.Things happen ,let her explain”
“Things happen -five years she carried my child and gave birth to it -I don’t know if it is a boy or girl and now he or she is in surgery for what ? “
“Why don’t we ask her together? Take a piece of advice fro an old man – you will have plenty of time to think and for accusations and recriminations and the preverbial what if, what you won’t have time for is the now -lets go up together and try and make head and tail of what is going on”
The elevator reached the ground floor and the doors opened…
“I believe that this is you stop?”
“No mine is on the fourth floor-i believe that my wife is waiting and my kid….”
The elderly man pressed the button to shut the door with a faint smile on his lips.
Arnav re entered the waiting room “You came back” Khushi launched herself at him and held him close. Arnav couldn’t help himself his arms came up and held her close as if nothing could harm her. He smelt her hair like he had a thousand times in his dreams and now she was really here. She wasn’t a hallucination she was real.
“Khushi tell him about Arav”
“Do I have a son or daughter ?”
“Son”
“Name ?”
“Arav Shashi Singh Raizada “
“Nice name”
“I thought you would like it ?”
“Why didn’t you tell me ?”
“Di already hated me ….and then I was having a baby …..a happiness that by all rights should have been hers …initially she blamed me for all that Shyam fiasco. In time that seed might have taken root again I had to give her time before coming back”
“What about me Khushi ? in all of this grand master plan of yours ,what about me?”
“Our son was born and it wasn’t easy ….babuji helped me ..alot in those days …I didn’t have time to think …I had a child who was constantly sick in and out of hospitals …”
“Why didn’t you call me Khushi whats all this money worth if I can’t use it to help those i love”
Khushi looked up at Arnav “You still love me ?”
“I have always loved you , I am currently furious as hell but that doesn’t mean that I don’t love you”
“How could I give you a moments fleeting happiness and tell you that you have a child and then take it away from you …Arav had a heart condition only a transplant would take care of it -drugs would prolong his life but not for long. Do you know how hard it is for you to see you child grow weaker by the day. As time progresses you notice more and more he is not quite as big as the other kids born in his year. He can’t run as fast .then he can’t run at all. He doesn’t keep up with the other kids -every time he goes into hospital the fear grows is this the last time ? will I bring him home for another day? Each time I brought him home ,I felt god had granted me a reprieve. How could I put you through that. I decided that after Arav was better we would come and meet you.
He had a very bad infection a few months back and I thought that was it -it cost a lot of my savings..”
“Khushi you have all the Raizada money at your finger tips at anytime you could have use it”
“I know how you work the minute i operated my bank account your detectives would have been on me-wouldn’t they ?”
Arnav smiled for the first time and nodded.
“A transplant opportunity came up and here we was are “
“I understand your mad warped brain thinking pattern -I don’t agree with it -but I understand it-how long do we have to wait “
“Four to six hours”
“Some child lost their life so that mine could have a chance , Khushi do we know where the heart came from ?”
Khushi shook her head. “ devi maya will be upset with me -my heart leapt for joy when I heard that there was a possibility of a heart for Arav . I was happy that a child somewhere had died so that mine could live “
“No Khushi you didn’t think that you were just happy that our child had chance. Our child do you have any pictures ?”
Khushi sat there showing a whole array of pictures and listening to the stories of Arav and his shenanigans -his birthday’s.
“I’m so sorry you missed out -“
“I missed a few but i will be there for next one and every one thereafter.”
“will ……will he …will he be around for …for “
“Khushi he hasn’t met his father yet …he will wake up to meet me and the rest of his family , his cousins aunts and uncles and his Bua who will love him more than any of the other kids. You know I’m her favourite papad ka tukha”
Arnav had felt the years of loneliness of the last five years vanish. She had her reasons for disappearing then . If he wanted a chance with her he had to let the past go and be in the past. He had to create a future for them , one that she was so secure she would never run again.
‘Khushi promise me you will never leave me again no matter how justified you feel- you will always tell me if you get this mad running bug again”
“I promise “
“I want you to come home with Arav and all of us be a family again. We have a lot of things to work out and in time we will ,come home Khushi”
“We will ,but what about everyone else – ?”
“No one will say a word and it’s more your house and Arav’s than anyone else’s …they have all missed you …including Di”
‘Look the doctors…Mr Raizada I apologise for the delay in the procedure I didn’t realise the connection ..but the procedure was a success….the rest of it is in god’s hand “
Khushi spoke first “he was always in god’s hand and still is. It was god’s hand that guided yours during surgery and now he will watch over my son”
“When can we see him?”
“He is in ICU you can see him there but he will be heavily sedated for a few days.”
The doctor just watched the couple hold each other as they cried.
After all Mr Raizada maybe an important business man but at the end of the day he was just a father and a husband . It was as simple as that -he was only a father and a husband -nothing else mattered not the past , not their mistakes only them and and their son.

SS- Getting to know Khushi ( epilogue )

okay final part is up hope you guys enjoyed it- as some one said what is life without laughter. And what is laughter without pain -to experience one you must fully understand and appreciate the other.

Getting to Know Khushi 

  Epilogue

The wedding Proposal

 

Arnav always knew what he wanted and once decided he pulled out all the stops to achieve his goal.
That is what made him the success that he was today. He considered every possible scenario that might be played out and placed barriers in those routes until he , Arnav the businessman ensured his outcome.

Arnav had long ago decided that Khushi was the girl to complete him. She complimented him in every way. Yes, she was a bit on the clumsy side which seemed to get worse around him but she was his clumsy girl. He let her know everyday how much he loved her and how she had come to mean to him. He wanted to spend the rest of his life with her, for her to be the last thing he saw before sleep , the first thing to see when he woke up. He wanted the world to know that she was his -she had safe keeping of his heart. There was no one that meant as much as she did to him.
Arnav ensured that not a single person said a word out of line to Khushi- or they would feel the wrath and full force that the name ASR would spew forward.

All along there had only been one barrier ,one obstruction to his plans -Khushi herself. She steadfastly refused to marry him.
It had been a year now and he had started asking her to marry him nine months ago -flat refusal had been her response.
Arnav had tried everything to get her to agree- kindness, anger, the silent treatment, threatening Aman -which almost worked and then she saw the glint in his eye and knew that he wouldn’t see his threat through.

In finality he had a serious conversation with Aman-
“I have asked your sister to marry me till I am blue in the face -she says no”
Aman looked up at Arnav helplessly- he knew the reason why, but was under a strict promise not to reveal the truth.
“She can be stubborn”
“Aman she is taking it to a whole new level and you thought I was bad- she loves me -it’s evident in the number of ways she has tried to kill me over this past year”
Aman smirked and glanced down at Arnav’s lower half of his anatomy. Both recalled the incident when Aman took him to the doctors and he had to sit there for hours having a cold pack placed on his nether regions and being treated for superficial burns. They might have been superficial but got it had hurt. He had hardly been able to walk properly for a week.
“Inspite of the special number of ways that she has tried to do me damage I keep coming back for more – what is their left for me to prove myself to your sister -you’re my right hand man -help me ?”
“I’m also her brother -and yes you would be perfect for each other, you have to figure this one out on your own”
“Aman are you not going to help me?”
“I can’t -I gave my word”
“Even if you know that it is absolutely the right thing to do -for both of us !”
Aman saw the hard glint appear in ASR’s eyes.
“Arnav what are you going to do? I know that look you get it’s when you plan to close a deal and annihilate the opposition -irrespective of the cost!”
“I asked for help -you refused now I am going to win her my way.”
Aman was actually worried for Khushi for the first time -he had seen Arnav pounce on his business opposition and tear them apart leaving a path of destruction in his wake but achieving his ultimate goal -sucess.
“Aman all I can tell you is that in the end she will marry me but how I get her to agree is going to cause you some problems but the short term anguish and upheaval that I am going to cause in your lives will lead to long term happiness for all of us.”
“Arnav I’m warning you ..”
“Aman stop! you know she loves me and she is my heartbeat-without her I will cease to exist -whatever stupid notion that is causing her to deny me is going to be wiped out”
“Arnav -how exactly are you planning on getting her to agree?”
“That’s for me to know and you to find out, but I plan ruthless Aman you know that and I intend to win -there is no option for me to lose. Lets see the perfect wedding proposal venue ?…..”

Aman was no longer privy to Arnav ’s though and a good job too-so far he had handled her with kid gloves giving into all her demands fulfilling her every wish but when it came to marriage there was no moving her. How could people say that he was stubborn -she had taken things to an all new level and he had followed her lead. What was her resistance to marriage ,what was her hang up?
Couldn’t be public opinion . They were openly seen at public functions together , she attended all the family functions even to the extent that she attended a wedding as part of the Raizada entourage.

She was a regular visitor to Shantivan and sometimes it seemed to Arnav that she spent more time with his family than she did.
With time Khushi had carved her self a place in everyones heart. She had even managed to convert MamiJi. On the odd occasion when Arnav darted to lose patience with Khushi -even Mami ji championed her.
Khushi was adored in the Raizada household and was considered an integral part of it.

No family decision was taken without her input to the extent that Arnav views were not asked for if she had contributed. They considered her a part of their family and knew it was only a matter of time before Khushi Kumar Gupta changed both her name and her residence to Raizada and Shantivan.

What did Khushi like him in -that bloody Bhand Ghala outfit – well if there was ever a seduction planned then this was going to be it -oneway or another Khushi you are going to say yes it will be the perfect suhaag night for both of us and then one way or another you will have no option but to say yes.
Arnav felt guilty planning her down fall but what the hell was he to do -he had no concept as to why she was saying no and she wasn’t telling him so he had to play his devious hand.

Khushi knew that he had asked her to attend a business event with him and they wouldn’t be returning till monday. She would need to be in formal wear when he picked her up on friday night and for saturday and sunday evening dinner.

Arnav arrived in plenty of time and took Khushi away with him. She looked stunning in her black sari and her hair up. He had already tarted mentally undressing her wondering what she radon underneath. The blouse had such a low back there was no way she was wearing a bra under that. Arnav was growing hot under his collar as he thought about her as-he increased the air conditioning in the car.

Khushi was not faring much better she didn’t know why but she knew he had something planned for tonight she felt it in the air , the way he looked at her -their was a hunger in his eyes and a look of guilt. Guilt? what had he to be guilty about ? Where was he taking her?

Finally they pulled into a.. farmhouse???
Khushi laid her hand on Arnav’s shoulder questioning where had they come she thought they were going to a business event .

Arnav smiled “yes we are but I didn’t say we are going to it tonight -tonight we are having dinner at my farmhouse….. no Khushi no one else is coming …….why are you dressed up and why am I? ……….well i think you look stunning and don’t you like me in this outfit …..i thought you found me irresistible in this out fit .

Khushi response was to blush and hit him on his shoulder and then lean across and nibble his ear.

“I just remembered why I have this ridiculous outfit on -it’s because you can’t resist me in this -I remembered from the time of Karan’s wedding

The farm house was welcoming their bags were taken up to separate rooms and dinner was served.
All her favourite dishes even though they didn’t compliment each other, they were her favourite dishes. She had chat and Pani poori , boti kabob ,hydrebadi byrani ,tamatar ka cut , tandoori chicken and kheer and of course jelabi and gulab jam as well.

Khushi felt she couldn’t move her stomach was going to bust at the seams. She told Arnav accordingly that she felt like a balloon that was going to explode.
Arnav played their music and they danced a long slow dance .
Khushi put him from her in the end explaining that if his hands didn’t stop she wouldn’t be able to soon.
All Arnav said “why do we have to stop-he loved her she loved him -why stop?but now for the next surprise he took her to the orangery and laid her gently on a soft whit rug and he pointed to the ceiling. They lay there for an age together gazing at the stars discussing which stars were her parents and which one were his slowly his caressing hands lulled her into a sense of security. The scent in the orangery was of jamine. Slowly Khushi felt the fire within her grow from a small flame to an inferno.

“Khushi?”
“She didn’t respond but continued to kiss him.
Hesitantly he undid her doris and slowly lifted her blouse away giving ample opportunity for her to call a halt to the proceedings.
MATURE PART18+

Arnav gently caresses her breasts , his aroma was intoxicating, his tongue was leaving trails of fire
a glimpse of the
Khushi was losing all sense of coordinated thought all she could focus on were the promises of pleasure yet to come.He had awoken a thirst in her that only he could quench -she was no longer in control -her desire for him, she could feel heat emanating for every pore.
As his tongue practiced on her nipples licking and biting , gently tugging she found her hand moving of their own violation to his trousers.
Arnav stopped her again -knowing the answer full well -he had mastered the art of seduction a long time ago and an innocent like Khushi didn’t stand a chance -he thought twice fleetingly of his plan but then got drawn back into the passion of the moment -let me Arnav she spoke to him through her eye’s.

They both knew tonight there was no turning back
As his tongue found her breasts, his hands started to caress the insides of her legs, her response egged him on slowly creeping towards the juncture between her legs finding it hot and wet. Her breathing pattern changing becoming shorter and more laboured and when he finally reached her centre he felt her rise and up and meet his his hand, her body arched involuntarily looking for release. Her response was sensual and demanding more – slowly she pulled his face and looked deep into his eyes -imploring him for release.
“Khushi are you sure ?”
Her only answer was to pull his head down to meet hers and their lips and tongues took a detailed examination of each other.
His fingers eased the way for her and slowly but steadily he glided his way in ,she rose to meet him ,luring him deeper,pulling him in.
Khushi lost herself to the moment as he thrust rhythematicaly picking up the pace and Khushi’s body responded, matching each of his movements. Arnav slowly plunged himself to the hilt into her allowing their passion to crescendo. He felt her rhythmic spasms around him which made him explode within in her.
Both lat there exhausted and sated letting their heartbeats return to its normal resting rate.
What had started out as dominance on his part had ended in mutual ecstasy for each of them.
She pulled his face to look at her and thanked him.
The guilty voice at the back of his head rose once again and whispered -doe the end justify the means ?

x——————————————————————————————————x

Slowly much later Arnav led her to his room where they indulged completely twice before the sun awoke.
After a long relaxing breakfast Arnav advised her that they were going out for lunch to a meet a guy who had new sample cloths to show him.
The weekend passed in a blink of an eye with every spare moment exploring each others bodies and what brought them both to release.
Finally on their return to Dehli Arnav asked her “Khushi I love you with all my heart -will you marry me ? Everything i am and everything i do is related to you- Please marry me ?”
Khushi looked up at him and with tears in her eyes she said to -we had a perfect weekend -why did you have to go and ruin it ! tears dripped and fell on her hand and she shook her head .
Arnav looked at her with tears and then hugged her -and replied “ I am going to work very hard over the next few months trying to convince you-you know you are my life !”
Aman looked at Arnav questioningly -she said no again but now I am really working on it “

Slowly time passed and they all fell back into their routines -with the exception of Khushi and Arnav trying to find time alone to worship each other’s bodies.
Days passed into weeks and weeks into three months.

It was a particularly hot day and Khushi felt dizzy -she better eat something she had been feeling peeky since this morning, her facial colour matched the way she felt . Pale tired white and exhausted.
She had taken to having naps in the afternoon it wasn’t till about three weeks later that the penny dropped in her head.

She practically ran all the way to Arnav’s office to find he was in a meeting .
“Shall i call him for you ?”
Everyone knew that she was his girlfriend -infact everyone knew they would be getting married -they were probably waiting for the best opportune moment when businesses were slacker.
“Khushi nodded and then shook her head”
She indicated that she would wait in his offices.
“how could she have been so stupid , she had broached the subject very shyly and he had said he was taking care of it – he had taken care of it all right -that’s why she was in this mess now.

Arnav returned to his office-and found an agitated Khushi-her eyes, the way her body moved her hands they seemed nervous.
The shrewd businessman took over in a minute -he wondered finally -yes his plan was coming to fruition -go choice of words -he hadn’t intended the pun.
“Armav we need to talk”
“mmm what about ? you come for a lunch time quicke”
“be serious -it ’s the bloody quickie that i have come about”
“We can go up to the penthouse”
“Arnav shut up and let me talk’
‘OK – you talk and I’ll have a quick nuzzle “
“ARNAV “ she said it in such hard body language he knew that she was shouting intact -furious is a word he would use her eye were sparking flames and anger dripped from every movement
“I’m pregnant !”
“Good ….What ?”
“Are you even listening to what I am saying -I’m pregnant “
“Ohhhh…..what do you mean i was supposed to be taking care of that part of the relationship-girls normally do that part “
“Arnav Singh Raizada “ she had signed his whole name syllable by syllable I asked you and you said it was ok”
It was as she said those words that Khushi realised what exactly Arnav had said and what she had understood -he had no objection to her getting pregnant – IT WAS OK!
The next thing that happened was Arnav felt her hand against his face. Through the glass cabin the slap was witness by Aman and his PA who came rushing in.
“Khushi -you OK ?”
“Sir ?”
Arnav looked at his PA and told her to leave this was a personal and private issue between them two. Arnav looked pointedly at Aman.
“Not until she tells me to !”
“Khushi tum teek ho ?”
“She slaps me and you ask her if she ’s ok-nice one”
“This is the first time Khushi has ever raised her hand against anyone me included – I know her and you -you probably deserved it “
Khushi turned her back on him and started to walk out.
“Khushi where are you going ? we have some unfinished business to discuss”
Khushi turned round and looked at Aman -“Translate for him incase he misses any of my words -word for word“
“You’re such an ass- you planned it all right from the start -your play on words -well guess what Mr Raizada – your plan just flopped -I definitely won’t marry such an underhand bastard . Have you heard of single parent families -well guess what I have just become another statistic -I never want to see you again in my life!”
As Aman translated his temper flew off the wall as the sentence finished -his mind put into place exactly what Arnav had tried to do -get her pregnant to agree to marrying him.
His hand rose and a fist flew through the air and contacted Arnav’s jaw.
His PA came running in again “Sir ?”
This time both Aman and Arnav shouted “Get Out !”
Aman took Khushi’s hand and led her out the offices -they all needed to calm down and think things through.
Aman sat with Khushi as she cried her heart out -how could he have used her like that , tricked her. She wanted children but not like this. Was it wrong of her to want marriage the perfect man ,lover and then have a family.
Aman explained Khushi you had it all he wanted to marry you it was you with the chip on your shoulder that kept saying no.
“Aman he needs a perfect partner – that will walk by his side compliment him in every way -be his equal , walk seamlessly irrespective which echelon of society he was mixing with. I can’t speak he would have to be at my side -I would have held him back as I have you.
“stop Khushi -you have never held me back -instead you have made me reach further than I ever thought possible with AKG motors-and you are more than Arnav’s equal just like with me you compliment him-he did what he did -I’m not agreeing with him but the guy asked you umpteen times and desperate times call for desperate measures. Khushi its been six weeks the guy is desperate -talk to him -give him a chance”
“Aman -we can afford to live in an affluent area and have a completely different lifestyle -we have never moved “
“Because I love this place and I don’t have to worry about you getting to the garage as it is just across the road from us.”
“You’re not married “
“You set a high bar -and I have met the right girl- this is not about me but about you – meet him Khushi -he has never had a deal go so badly sour that he lost the women he loves and almost lost his best friend in the process”
“I’m not ready to forgive him yet “
Aman hugged Khushi”You said that you are not ready yet -that means you will be soon”

Khushi pregnancy progressed and Anjali, Mami and Nani ji were regular visitors -but no mention of Arnav was made -offers had been made for her to move into shantivan and of course Arnav would be made to move to the penthouse.
Khushi asked Anjali to be present for the birth of her child and help her through the ordeal -she had asked Aman who had said that that was Arnav’s job.
Khushi had steadfastly refused to meet talk or hear Arnav’s pleas. He sent her texts and mails and flowers , foods that she liked , he sent her clothes that she would be comfortable in-in effect he was the supportive father doing as much as he could for her from a distance. He knew he had screwed up and he had to let her calm down -boy she was stubborn and could hold a grudge.
He sent little clothes for the baby.
Finally in her eight month she agreed to meet him- only because of Aman’s nagging.
Arnav came round like an eager school boy to meet Khushi.
They stared at each other hunger apparent in both sets of eyes. He looked gaunt and haggard , she looked tired and her belly was very evident -it was huge.

I needed to tell you why I said no to your proposal. Khushi explained to arnav and watched his eyes turn from liquid brown to almost black. His anger was apparent .

“You mean i have had to go through all this crap because of some hand up you ‘ve got because of your lack of sound -I use the word sound as you have always had a voice and have no problem making yourself understood. Khushi I’m …I’mm I don’t know what to say ….you made me do things that I felt as guilty as hell about and it all stemmed from your insecurities that you were not good enough for me. You have had us and wasted all these months because of some stupid belief that you have got that you are not perfect for me because you have no sound. Well lady I’ve got news for you it’s not the lack of sound that makes you not perfect for me but you screwed brains warped sense of perception”

With that Arnav walked out slamming the door behind him leaving Khushi standing there….alone.
He was right ,she had messed up first -hell they had both messed up ! What kind of chance did their baby have …their baby poor kid he was going to be so screwed with parents like them -good job it would have Aman and Anjali to help support it.

Khushi grabbed her keys and waddled to her car in her state there was no manic rush -she was a whale and had to move at whale’s paceShe heaved her self into the car and fitted jolly just behind the wheel. She would follow him to Shantivan and have it out with him.

Anjali looked up as she saw Arnav storm in slamming the doors -now what ?why was he back so early and why was he so angry “Di ….Di…that woman…..Khushi…I could wring her bloody neck….do ..you ….know …what ..she …why …she has ..been …refusing to marry me…where does ….her …brain …live …I’m …going to …my room!”

What the hell happened ? If it wasn’t her then it was her brother -let him calm down then she would talk to him.

Arnav had fifteen missed calls text after text from Khushi -right now he had to calm down before he did something stupid. Crap he had already done it how did she manage to do this to him every time
.
He had screamed at her and walked out on her. He had left her standing there with those large eyes they had started filling up.He had to get back to her and finish this conversation sensibly.

The door bell rang incessantly -what the f*** now ? when a man needed peace and time to think there was always pandemonium -now who was at the door ringing the door like a lunatic.
the words echoed in his brain like a lunatic-there was only one person Khushi.
Arnav shot out of his room to the top of the stairs to see Khushi pale and white clutching HP for support. Arnav raced down the stairs and reached before Di did.
He saw that her eyes reflected pain and she was clutching her stomach. He scooped her up and placed her on the sofa “Khushi look at me her breathing was easing up and getting to a regular pace “is it the baby ?” Khushi nodded with large tears swimming in her eyes everyone had gathered round by now Khushi explained that she had driven over and her waters had broken in the car. Arnav started swearing and Khushi started to cry.”Who the hell lets an eight month pregnant woman drive when she can barely walk did you even fit behind the wheel?”
“Khushi ’s response was when her idiot lover shouts at her and leaves standing with no alternative but to go after him to apologise”
Di was watching her brother and his girlfriend -would those two never learn .
Shut up Arnav did you not hear her her water s have broken this discussion can wait we need to get her to the hospital-NOW!”
Khushi grasped Arnav ’s hand as another spasm took over her body they all felt her pain as she held her breath but no sound came forth except the sudden “OWWWW- breath Khushi from Arnav”
Once the contraction had subsided Arnav actually said time it we need to know how far apart these contractions are -Di call Aman and let him know that Khushi has gone into labour and we will all be on our way to the hospital.”

“Khushi why did you come here and not drive to the hospital when your waters broke ?”
Before she could answer another contraction came and she squeezed his hand -breath Khushi slowly.”
“How long?”
That was seven minutes -we had better be going to the hospital this baby is coming pretty soon.
Khushi shook her head “What do you mean no ?..honey this baby is four weeks early we need to get you to the hospital as fast as we can …. you are both going to need help.”

“Now ? You want to get married NOW – Khushi I promise you that I will marry you as soon as I possibly can after the baby is born-but now we have to get to the hospital-please baby listen to me”
“Khushi steadfastly shhok her head -she was not moving .
Nani came to the rescue -go get the sin door from the mandir and i will get a chain . Arnav infront of Devi maya do you accept Khushi as your wife and Khushi do you accept arnav as your husband tie the chain place the sin door in her hair and now for god sake take her to the hospital. We will complete the rest of the ceremonies as soon as possible as long as you two can stop fighting and being this stubborn.

Baby Raizada felt that something important was going on in the outside world so decided to give his mother a break for a few moments before demanding her attention to allow him access into the outside world.

Arnav kissed her and smiled and then he felt her gasp yup -break time was over Baby Raizada wanted out.
It was forty five minutes late that a new Raizada entered the mad mad world of Arnav and Khushi-he was held by his mother for a second and then was placed in an incubator.

Two weeks later Arnav and Khushi came to collect their son and take him home Ariyan Aman Raizada was taken home by both parents to attend their wedding pheras.

Aman and Di watched silently holding their breath, as those two took their paces round the fire -this was Khushi and Arnav wedding, would they actually manage it without incident or …… but thats a whole different story

Getting to Know Khushi penultimate chapter

 

Penultimate chapter

It had been over a year that Arnav and Khushi had been spending an increasing amount of time with each other.
The odd casual coffee and ice-cream had turned into a standing date most evenings, usually down a local ice-cream parlour at Laxmi Nagar -to the extent they had their own table. Arnav smiled as recalled the first time that he had his coffee and her ice-cream.
Arnav pulled up outside her house just as he saw Khushi leaving a large building across from their house. She was in her overalls -the building carried the initial AKG Motors.
Arnav met her at the entrance and smiled, Khushi smiled back and told him that Aman wasn’t there.
“Khushi I have to deliver some documents to him Arnav had stopped by Laxmi Nagar on the pretext of delivering papers to Aman for the morning meeting -emailing a copy would have sufficed- but the excuse that it required a signature was what he used as justification to meet Khushi.
Arnav knew that the errand that he had sent Aman on would keep him occupied for at least two hours -time enough for him to deliver the papers and see Khushi.
“Khushi while I wait can I have a coffee?”
“Err …no one drinks that stuff at home Akash has chai like me. Lets go to the local ice-cream shop -they may have coffee”
They sat at a table at the ice cream parlour but that took Khushi and Arnav about fifteen minutes to get there.
Arnav watch as she must have wave and chatted -Khushi style to every person as they walked. To top it of she stopped to play marbles with group of boys -hitting the bull eye and then high fives the boys as they all laughed.
“Can he play ?”
Khushi made a sad face and shook her head.
“Can he fly a kite ?”
Khushi looked at Arnav and then back at the boys -and shook her head
“Can he …..Khushi held up her hand and then using her hands explained to them he couldn’t use a catapult , or play gilli- danda or climb trees , bowl a cricket ball like her or Akash or kick a ball and was completely useless when it came to cars- he didn’t even know that a car needed petri to run.
“Khushi Didi why are you his friend then ?”
“He is Akash bhaiya’s boss”
All the boys then nodded their heads wisely, grasping the situation -this was Akash bhaiya’s boss not Khushi Didi’s friend”
Arnav was laughing as they walked away -“just for the record -i play cricket , football and hockey “
Khushi explained to him “Did you want to spend the next hour playing with the boy’s”
Arnav shook his head and laughed.
“You know you look much better when you laugh “ Khushi ironed out his frown lines as she signed him.
As they entered the cafe and took their seats Khushi placed their order one bitter horrible black coffee -and then went on to explain to the shipowner that if was plain black he could maintain his moods for longer -sugar might actually sweeten him up -so he had to stay away from it. She on the other hand wanted a vanilla ice-cream with three sauces and multicoloured sprinkles and moon dust that popped in your mouth with a crackle .
Khushi was already in heaven just describing her ice-cream to the owner. She hadn’t even started eating it yet and she looked as though she was going to orgasm. Could she really love food this much?
Arnav noticed that having no voice didn’t hold Khushi back in this environment , here she was happy , loved and treated as an equal by most. Arnav was finally beginning to understand why Aman had never moved from Laxmi Nagar -here his Khushi was safe. Everything was familiar -people knew and she knew them they had all found a way to understand her and her them.
They sat at a table but not in silence -well not Khushi version of silence she signed him and used her phone to text so that he understood. What did he like about the bitter dark liquid that made her toes curl cause it was bitter.
“why do you like black coffee ?”
“Are there any other colours?”
Khushi looked at him with a loss of words as his statement continued “I like it like i like my woman, hot and strong “
Khushi choked on her ice-cream she quickly stretched across to grab a tissue before the contents of her mouth ended up on him. In her rush, she knocked over her ice-cream and spoon which suddenly seemed to develop wings. It somersaulted over and hit Arnav on the nose. In her anxiousness Khushi quickly stretched across the table to offer him a tissue instead in her hurry she knocked the steaming cup of coffee into his lap.
Horrified at her resultant actions Khushi ran round to his side to mop up the offending hot bitter liquid and then it happened -she slipped and fell straight into his lap forcing him back into a seated position.
He wasn’t sure what he was suffering more from -was it really possible ? He had just been wacked on the nose by a metal spoon, traces of ice-cream trickled down his face and had steaming hot coffee thrown at him followed by a beautiful wriggling girl and the more she wriggled the more aroused he got even in his damaged and painful state ….he was getting hard.
“Stop”
And Khushi stopped wriggling and her eyes widened she felt it -no she had imagined that -surely not !
Then Aman walked in.
Both Arnav and Khushi had the same train of thought Shit! the only difference Arnav verbalised his noughts whilst Khushi just thought them.
“Khushi what the hell is going on and ASR what happened to you”
“Your sister happened to me! I’m not sure which injury to deal with first”
“If I may suggest Khushi -get of Arnav -give me your hand “
Aman removed Khushi from Arnav and then asked her if she was OK ?”
“Now you ASR -how bad is it ? Usually if Khushi is involved its bad”
“A bit bruised sticky and wet and burnt -how’s that for openers “
“Khushi -you going for some kind of record here -how much damage can you do to one guy in fife minutes “
Khushi bit her lips apologised and moved forward to try and help the situation. Arnav had just got himself under control -there was no way he was about to embarrass her or himself in front of her brother and friends. He held up his hands as fast as Aman got hold of Khushi by the scruff of her neck.
“Khushi you have helped enough today please stop -go home while I try and sort this mess out.
‘Khushi -thanks -as dates go this one will always be up there”
Khushi looked at Aman “It wasn’t a date Aman, tell him the date is tomorrow same time and same place if he can walk”
“Khushi he needs danger money to go on a date with you and I need a boss that can still walk the day after tomorrow- so I’ll say NO”
“I carry special insurance -so I’ll say yes!”
Aman didn’t know who to glare more at his sister or his friend cum boss.
Arnav smiled and nodded at Khushi to go home.
“Aman you don’t need to worry -tomorrow would be the safest date that Khushi would ever go on ….man I think you need to get me to the hospital -forget walking I think your sister is an advocate for family planning -i think she has burnt my balls !!!”
“Serve you bloody right for looking at my sister and engineering my absence”
“Ok I think I have paid the price for what i did to you -“
“Arnav I’m serious -she is my kid sister and ..”
“I am deadly serious about getting to know her- trust me when I say I am never going to hurt her intentionally but the same i can’t guarantee about her”
Let’s get you to the hospital.

It was after that eventful day that Khushi and Arnav started spending time together.
He learnt sign for her by attending classes , she tried hard to drink coffee -the closest she got was an iced mocha caramel latte.
She made Arnav smile and now he wanted to lay the world at her feet.

Rakashabandan had come and gone – everything was planned down to the last detail for tonight.
Nothing had been left to Aman. Right down to the last detail Arnav had planned it.
The perfect proposal. It had been weeks in the planning -the backdrop, the ambience ,the food the ring and the verse.

Aman already knew Arnav’s intentions he had already declared his intentions to Aman who was Khushi’s brother and one of his closet friends.

 

 

 

TS – Getting to Know Khushi

Getting to Know Khushi 

Chapter 5

 
“-Arnav Ji are you ready -We will be over to pick you up in ten minutes you haven’t forgotten -your forfeit.”
“-I’m ready-“
“-At the door , please open -ding dong-“
“I didn’t hear anything”
“The bells like me the silent type communication by text -so open the door”
Arnav stood there gaping
Khushi pointed to herself and then gave herself the thumbs up.
She gave him a twirl and then signalled him a question what do you think?
She stood there in a beautiful chiffon sari with a red sequin border and large kundan ear rings.
“Breathtaking -amazing “
She signalled back to him with Aman’s help-
“For Salman – a girl has to make an effort for her beloved -you know one day I’ll marry him”
“Yeh -he will be waiting for you at the Laxi Nagar crossing cause he has nothing better than to wait for you !”
“Arnav who’s at the door ?”
“nani ji its Aman and Salman Khan’s fiance “
“What Arnav ?“
“Nothing Nani ji Its Aman and Khushi “
Khushi looked at her watch -and then indicated to Arnav -are you ready ?
“There’s plenty of time , would you like to come in?”
Khushi looked at Aman who translated for her
“We have to leave now she doesn’t want to miss a single thing”
What you mean like standing in a ridiculously long queue to get in and then buying absurdly priced food and drinks and then sitting in crowded hall watching hundreds of women fawn over Salman Khan, listening to their screams and wolf whistles when he takes his shirt off”
Khushi ’s eyes lit up and sparkled and she nodded her head vigourously and smiled.
Arnav shook his head and then said something that made Aman look up and stare at Arnav.
“Really ?You do you need to make gaga eyes at him when you have to fine specimens here in real life “
Was Arnav really flirting with his sister ? Aman glared at ASR- to warn him.
Khushi looked at ASR and felt his biceps and then gave him the thumbs down, She then pointed out his shirt and waved her thumbs from side to side indicating that he did not match up to Salman; she then turned to Aman hand smiled and kissed him on his cheek and indicated that he was perfect -except for his rakhi -he was her brother.
Nani had seen the exchange and heard the comments and laughed as she approached.

“Aman beta come in “
“Namaste Nani JI “
And then Arnav saw it but Aman was used to it.
Khushi involuntarily took a step closer to Aman and sidled up to him -fear flickered in her eye’s and then settled as he casually draped his arm over his sister’s shoulder -and then the boldness returned to her eye’s.
Arnav realised two things in that instant -Aman was not only her voice but he was her strength and proctor.
Aman’s reactions were habitual that’s how Khushi always behaved round new people nervous, till she had assessed them, she took her confidence from him until she knew where she stood with strangers;that’s why he had found her response to ASR puzzling -not once had she retreated into her shell -instead she she had come out fighting, treating him like a long friend, his equal which she was. Aman felt that ASR had met his match in Khushi -the way she was treating him and the way he was responding. But this was his baby sister -more like his daughter-he had brought her up on his own for the last fourteen years on his own. He had taken responsibility for her from a very young age and then when his mother’s body finally lost the will to fight anymore ,Aman took responsibility for her completely. He would have to watch ASR very carefully -he wasn’t about to let him hurt his sister.
“Who is this , with you and did I hear that Chote was actually going to A BOLLYWOOD- INDIAN MOVIE with you?”
Khushi put her hands together and greeted Nani traditionally as ASR made the introductions before Aman could -“This is Khushi”
Khushi stepped forward touching Nani’s feet
Aman and Nani stared at Arnav momentarily – Aman noticed that ASR was taking his place he was becoming Khushi ’s voice and he hadn’t even realised it.He had to watch carefully -could ASR change -could he be the one for his Khushi- he had to wait and watch carefully.
Nani looked up at Chote -he introduced Khushi -but she was obviously here with Aman -and what magic spell had she created that was making her Chote voluntarily attend a film.
“Come in and have a cup of tea before you go”
Nani watched the expression in her face change as she warily looked at ASR first and then Aman for reassurance -they both smiled reassuringly and beckoned her forward into the room.
Aman was watching ready to pounce like a hawk, as Nani grabbed Khushi’s hand and led her to the sofa.
As they walked across the room Khushi clapped her hand’s and pointed to the mandir.
Khushi eyes lit up at the beautifully decorated mandir.
Arnav shook his head and Aman laughed.
He looked in stunned disbelief -him the agnostic was falling for a girl who visibly smiled at the site of a Mandir -typical of fate -it always laughed at him.
Khushi distracted and started peeking in and looking and admiring the mandir at the way it was decorated.
“Khushi you like it-you can go in if you want “
Khushi couldn’t resist -re-emerging a few minutes later
“Beti what did you pray for ?”
Khushi pointed to Arnav and Aman and smiled.
“You shy ? really you prayed for both of them anything special”
Khushi nodded and shook her head – confused how to tell Nani .
She looked at her gently and smiled and pointed to her voice box and shook her head and then made actions of flying wings -indicating that her voice had flown away a long time ago when she was a child.
With her actions and Nani’s interpretation she told her that she had prayed to Devi Maya that they wouldn’t embarrass her at the movies and behave themselves -she really hoped that Aman wouldn’t fall asleep and start snoring like he did last time he took her.

Aman and Arnav watched her and Nani talk as if they had known each other all their lives.
“Chai Khushi ?“
She made Nani understand She would prefer Adrak wali chai -Khushi jumped up and indicated to all that she would make it.
She rushed off following HP returning awhile later with adrak wali chi for all.
“Nani praised her chai commenting she hadn’t had such a delicious cup of tea in a long while.”
Everyone had joined them for tea and to stare in amazement that Arnav was going to watch a film -an Indian film.
Seeing was believing ,all there were convinced that he would find an excuse not to go.
Khushi looked at the time indicated to Aman that they had to leave –
“Excuse us Nani Ji otherwise if I miss the film we will have to endure the torture twice she will watch it and make me watch it again looking at Arnav -and if I go down so do you -boss or no boss!”
They all laughed

 

“She is very pretty -but she doesn’t speak- she ’s not good enough for our Arnav -she’s not perfect”
“What do you mean she doesn’t speak ? She speaks more than you -didn’t you notice she didn’t stop”
‘She doesn’t speak Sasuma! She is like broken toy -one that you can’t fix”
“Manorma! she is not broken , she doesn’t need fixing, she is perfect – she smiles with her eyes and only those with a good heart would recognise that. Only broken people look for the same in others because of’s their own insecurities. That’s the problem with you you can’t tell the difference between a real diamond and paste. And Khushi is a perfect diamond -I see that -but that doesn’t matter Arnav and Aman see it too -and that makes all the difference.”

All three had heard the whole conversation Aman noticed , the anger flare in ASR’s eyes and clench his fists, Khushi smiled and slipped her hand into Aman’s hand and shook her head and smiled and said lets go – Salman ’s waiting.
She placed a hand on Arnav’s shoulder and shrugged hers and smiled – it didn’t matter she was used to comments like that.
Arnav replied that “it still didn’t make it right “
Khushi used her eyes and a combination of simple hand signals and Aman’s help to say to Arnav “You change the world one person at time -I won Nani ji today -next time may be ,It will be your Mammi or maybe it won’t ;some people you can never change.”
“How can she say you don’t speak -you say more in couple of sentences than she does in an hour?”
“Salman – keys please Aman! I need to drive”
“Arnav say a prayer Khushi is driving put your seat belt on we are partaking in the ned Dehli Grand Prix- I ‘ll take the back seat -you joining me or are you showing your false bravado by sitting in the front!”
Khushi glared at Aman and told Aman “ to zip it -Arnav waiting -front or back , let’s go“ tapping at her watch.
Arnav sat and belted himself in and the heard Khushi rev the engine squeal the car out the drive -he grabbed the seat of his car as he watched her weave in and out of Dehli traffic like a true professional cab driver -cutting up drivers going across a round about and the wrong way up a one way street. Finally he had to say something.
“Khushi you know that we have to be alive to watch the film !”
Arnav turned round and saw Aman siting with his head back eyes closed -sleeping -obviously he was accustomed to Khushi particular driving style.
The car halted with a jerk -yes she had actually managed to park the vehicle in the tinniest space.
Aman stood patiently at the boot of the car waiting .
“What are we waiting for ?’
“I can see that you have never been to the pictures with Khushi – our picnic basket”
“What ?”
We can buy popcorn and ice-cream and whatever else she wants inside ?”
“Not my Khushi -I tried to warn you -now just sit back and experience Miss Gupta at the cinema’s and we will have to translate for her as well -as crazy as her words are”
Arnav wouldn’t have believed it if he hadn’t been there.
She had an argument with the ticket collector and won about the food with Aman translating for her. She held her own little picnic and shared her food with total strangers and them. she danced in her seat whilst Aman and Arnav sank lower and lower. Everytime Salman’s shirt came off Khushi whistled as loud as she could. The first time she whistled Arnav had a heart attack and looked at Aman -who held out a sleeve of paracetomols smiling. Arnav shook his head -i’ll take my punishment like a man.”
“ASR you still have a lot more coming you’re way. The night is still young”
The look that Aman received was one of absolute plai terror at what more the night could hold.
Finally the film was over and Khushi was dancing on air.
“It’s a good job that she can’t sing or we really would’t survive”
Khushi then took the boys out for food -they had chaat from a street vendor whilst ASR looked at the food as though it would walk away by itself. She found a balloon man and bought half his balloons from him and let them go only hanging onto two, kissing each one as she let it go.
“khushi what are you doing ?”
Khushi explained to Arnav that she was sending a prayer and a wish up to heaven -it might reach there faster. ASR smiled at her. She had ice-cream and had made Aman have one too since she couldn’t decide on a flavour , she had triple scoop each a different flavour and Aman’s was the same. Each time he reached the next flavour she would take a little bit of his cone and when her’s was finished as she wolfed it down at a ridiculous rate she watched Aman -till he smiled and gave her the rest of his cone.
“You do this every time Khushi -why don’t you just order four scoops yourself.”
She moved her hands very quickly and Arnav couldn’t follow the conversation.
“Pardon Aman I didn’t follow that last part -she should order eight mini scoops for herself , so I can eat mine in peace.”
Khushi jumped i the conversation -Arnav don’t listen to him he only wants two scoops he orders the third for me in the first place.
The group broke into laughter as Khushi took them to the park where they fed the ducks and she paddled in the fountain and she made Aman and Arnav join her and then the three lay on the grass watching the clouds and stars trying to name the shape of clouds as they floated by.
Eventually Aman drove them back to Shantivan whilst Khushi slept in the back.
“Enjoyed your punishment ?”
“Yes actually Aman I did! Tell her I’ll speak to her tomorrow”
“Why ASR ? She’s my sister -let her have her dreams, as long as she hope she will always dream -you might just break her dreams”
“Aman -she is special-I wouldn’t let anyone break her dreams-night Aman – give us a chance Aman or she will lose hope slowly and you will end up breaking her dreams. Everybody deserves one chance”
“Aman looked at Khushi and the Arnav -text her tomorrow I’m sure she will be waiting “

x——————————————————————————————x

 

This seems like a natural place to stop this three shot -unless you want a further part or epilogue.

 

 

TS – Getting to Know Khushi Part 2/3

Chapter 3

The following two weeks had Arnav in a tizz, he found it hard to focus on meetings and tasks that required his full attention -one particular meeting he found that he his brain had wandered of imagining the the girl with laughing eyes and dazzling eyes calling him and Aman Idiots. It was actually Aman who came to his rescue.
“ASR what happened in that meeting -you seem distracted”
“mmm nothing -I’ve just got a lot on my mind”
“What more than the normal fifty ball that you juggle”
“Yes -more than that- it’s more of a puzzle ,I’ll work it out”

“Aman I have to drop of some papers to you,but i m running late ”
“I’ll pick up from you later,ASR from Shantivan”
Arnav sat there puzzling lots of things one of them Aman never, repeat never invited him to house infact in all the years that Aman had worked for him -he had never had an invite to his house. Other employees invited him -the fact that he didn’t attend any employee’s had nothing to do with the fact that in the last nine years had never invited him to his house. Despite him being his right hand man, trusted work colleague, friend he had never been invited to his house. All he knew about Aman was he had no parents and seemed to be recently hanging out with a girl who wore overalls from AKG motors.
Aman looked at his watch -deliver the documents and get home -it was Rakshbandan today -he was dead -Khushi would have. He was going to have to do some serious grovelling to make up for being late. ASR really had some timing -it wasn’t often that Aman booked time off work -this was one of those days and now he was going to be late – but those documents had to have ASR ’s signature ready for the courrier to be picked up in the morning.
Khushi -well – he would take his punishment , she would forgive him -she always did. He would buy her some galaxies and chaat on the way home.Her stomach was always the route to his forgiveness.
Aman knocked to find HP opening it –
“Aman Bhaiya -Arnav Bhaiya is having dinner at the table with Nani Ji”
“HP call him out -I have a two minute job”
“Bhaiya you know Nani will not allow Bhaiya to get up until dinner is finished -you come in”
“I am running late -I just need a signature “
“Bhaiya -you know Nani wouldn’t let you go without eating”
Oh boy -ASR -you owe me, big time Khushi is going to make mincemeat of me -and you , as it is she really hates you.
“Namaste , Nani Ji, I am sorry to disturb you bit I need ASR’s signature -30 second job”
ASR got up to get sign the papers.
“Chote sit!”
“Nani Ji it will..”
“Arnav I said sit-it’s dinner time” turning to Aman “join us Beta, HP “
Aman sat trying to stifle his laughter and not look at ASR who was presently glaring at Aman.
Aman looked up ASR and then said “It doesn’t work anymore -Nani Ji’s is more scarier -two grown men, whizz kids of the business world who strike fear in majority of people they know ,are no more than two purring kittens in front of a beautiful 65 year old lady. If only the world knew”
“Aman -may I remind you who you work for “
“Chote! Stop your bullying ASR tactic’s – mera bechare Aman – you tell me if he gives you a hard time -I’ll twist his ear”
“Ji Nani ji” -looking at ASR .
“Unbelievable ! It’s a good job I never let you come to AR designs -Nani -you will destroy my reputation in minutes”
“Aman -why are you taking so little ?”
“Nani ji, I have to go I’m already late and who jo hai….woi …”
Arnav now started to smile squirm -you were laughing at me a minute ago -now Nani has caught you -it’s your turn. Arnav started to enjoy watching Aman squirm his way out of this little trap that he had got himself into.
“Ji Nanai ji -woi ….she …my phone!”
Aman saw his text and then the next and then the next
You’re late .
YOU ARE LATE
YOU ARE VERY LATE !
Arnav saw the change in Aman -he was literally wolfing down his food swallowing it whole .
“Aman beta -slow down the food is not running away”
“No Nani Ji , but time is, I need to get home soon or Arnav will have to find some one else to shout at tomorrow”
“I’ve finished let me sign those papers”
Arnav saw the next text
Do you even love me ?
Care for me ?
I’ve been waiting for you for the last two hours – my forgiveness is rapidly vanishing as my hunger seems to increasing exponentially.
“Aman -you had better go -you are being summoned !”
“Khushi?”
“Yes”
Arnav knew he didn’t like that. He didn’t like Aman being called by Khushi -he had finally figured out that part – he like Khushi -a lot! The question was what was her relationship with Aman.
He had see a few of Aman’s aquantainces but they never lasted very long but this girl was different -he couldn’t put his finger on it.She wasn’t his regular run of the mill types of girl. He had taken time to learn sign , for her , she was special to him . He had already figured that out ;but the rest he wasn’t quite there.
“Where is she waiting for you ?”
Aman didn’t like this line of questioning. Why was Arnav asking about Khushi he looked up at Arnav’s face and saw the look. He knew that look well -he was on the prowl, something about Khushi had caught his eye. He knew Arnav ’s reputation with women well- he had protected Khushi from him and many like him. Those who thought his ray of sunshine was an easy target. He put them right soon men and aunties all alike. Those who thought she would be an easy catch , those who thought that no one would tie themselves to a mute girl-she wasn’t worth much. Khushi was used to being treated like dirt by a lot of people until Aman had shown her her worth. It was there loss that they didn’t spend time with her she had a wealth of knowledge and love to share.
Where he had been living for the last nine years people knew Khushi -here she was treated as an equal-they knew her there were no prejudice against her. Here where she lived she was treated as an equal. She had fought her battles and won. She had made people acknowledge her and won their respect. She had shown how to overcome adversity with love and laughter. They had built a safe world for her in which to exist in Laxmi Nagar. He could have moved out of here and into a far more affluent area -but Khushi would have to start her battles again -No they were happy where they were. Thanks to Arnav he was rich. Richer than he could have ever believed possible.
But that look in his face meant that he and Khushi were in trouble.

“She is waiting -I had better go! nani Ji ijazzat ho thoi”

 

Chapter 4

 
Arnav started looking into Aman’s personal file for his home address -really Laxmi Nagar that was his address nine years ago -and hadn’t changed. Why he was a very affluent individual now -wealthy in his own rights -maybe not to the extent that he was but still he had money and power to be reckoned with courtesy of AR designs and the fact that he was second in command.
Emergency contact – next of kin -sister -Khushi Gupta – now that was interesting.
in all the time that he had known him not once had he mentioned family and especially not a sister. Not once. Why ? Was he ashamed of her ? No that was not the Aman, he knew. So why did he keep her hidden.? Well it was time for Khushi to come out of the shadows -he was interested in her.
Why did she wear overalls that said AKG motors. That name he knew that AR designs paid a regular amount of money to keep AKG motors to keep his fleet of cars on the road. Any time they need a spare car or driver -it was usually through AKG motors.
Time for a basic google search -who owned AKG motors and where was it located ?
A few presses of the button revealed that AKG motors was a limited company registered at companies house with two major share holders -Akash Gupta and Khushi Gupta. From the accounts that had been presented -was a thriving company which an exhibited a high profit margin.
The more he researched the more he realised that they had ventured from just fixing cars to renting and selling cars as well. They had a lorry section as well as bikes. they had truly diversified themselves and captured the automobile and now were taking over the bike market.
Well it wasn’t everyday that you learnt that your second in command worked for you because he wanted to not because he needed to.
the Gupta’s were worth millions, in there own right and this was the information that was readily available to him-so the reality was he was probably worth a lot more. So why laxmi Nagar -not the poorest but then not the richest either. An area prone to electricity cuts and water shortages.
Arnav realised that the man he had worked with and considered a friend for the last nine years was a real mystery.
Arnav liked nothing better than solving a mystery -layer by layer.
“So Aman my friend what else are you hiding ?”

“Time to pay you a visit”
Also this was the first time in nine years that Aman had rung in and said he was unable to attend work. the perfect excuse -visiting a sick work colleague.
Arnav arrived at Laximi Nagar and slowly manoeuvred his way to address on file but stopped short.
The site that greeted him was unbelievable. The middle of the road had been cordoned off- and turned into a make shift cricket ground. Khushi was bowling and Aman was batting -there was a whole host of people watching and seemed to be playing children adults and teenagers.
the site that greeted him was beyond belief, inconceivable, unthinkable, unimaginable.
It was as if there was a street party except that it was a cricket match.
Arnav got out to watch the spectacle as there was an incredible hush over the area.

“Bowl Didi -like you have never bowled before -gethim out he is the enemy -not your bhaiya!”
“Aman don’t falter man – you have to hit the six for the game or they win and we have the forfeit-she is not your sister !”
Arnav watched the crowd who seem to hold their breath -it was obvious that this ball held the fate of the game in the balance.
he watched the silent communication between brother and sister -“Game on”
Khushi bowled the best that she ever had -and Aman batted as though he was batting for India.
He hit the ball for six but was caught out by one of the fielders- the perfect catch!
The spectators erupted into joyous cheers every single one. In reality there was no sides every member of each family had been placed on opposites side so that the outcome was irrelevant they would all celebrate as a community. And now it was time for celebration.
He saw a group of boys pick Khushi up on their shoulders and carry her off on a victory period to Aman .

Aman joined the group carrying khushi round the perimeter singing and laughing-till he spied Arnav.

“Whats wrong ASR ?”
“You’re meant to be sick !”
“No I’m not -i took the day off -without pay -you can check! Whats wrong why are you here?”
“I came to check on a sick friend -someone who has never had a day of sick in the last nine years !”
“This was my punishment for being late yesterday -it was rakshabandan and by the time i got home it was already 10:30. Never get on the wrong side of Khushi , she knows exactly what buttons to push to make you suffer”
“Well are you going to ask me in? Offer me a drink -after all I have come to visit a sick colleague”
“Lets lay down a few ground rules ASR- by now you will have checked my personal file and found out everything about me and Khushi -or so you think- she is strictly off limits to you! i know she has caught your eye but then she does -she catches everyones eyes. it falls to me to look after her and ASR one foot out of line with her and I will have no hesitation in striking back -employee or not- this is my sister “
“point taken “
“now for that drink -come in….Arnav mind the rangoli-Khushi spent hours making it -if you step on it she will have you she has left gaps in the pattern for your feet-follow me hang on let me tell Khushi your here”
Arnav saw Aman signal to her and she signalled back hand and then he laughed and shook his head.
“What was that about?”
She asked if we were married ? You can’t seem to live without seeing me on a daily basis and she said mind the rangoli and if we step in it leave our shoes outside she does’n want footsteps in the house!”

Arnav entered a simply furnished house but busting at the seams with colour. An array of colours decorated the house.

“Khushi likes colours -hence the rainbow -she seems to add every year but forgets to clear out!”

Arnav then heard it a jingle of bells -“thats Khushi she has come”

khushi entered and smiled at both men -one made her smile while the other made her heart flutter. What was wrong with her ? Why did her stomach churn and start doing a dance every time she saw him. He was not for her -no man was. Not in this life time- why didn’t her heart listen to her brain?
She came in and hugged Aman and stood next to him and had a conversation with him which amazingly enough Arnav followed.
“Whooped your ass! another forfeit coming your way – opening show for the latest Salman Khan movie!”
Arnav saw Aman shaking his head -begging then pointed to ASR -it was his fault that he was late why should he punished alone.
“Tell him”
Aman looked at Arnav and held in the laughter …Khushi says you have to pay the forfeit fees”
“Why “
Arnav looked at her directly, Khushi pointed to the coloured footprints leading into the house to the spot where he was standing and secondly you two are joined at the hip one would think your partners- so take your punishment together”
Arnav laughed at Khushi apologised and held up his hand sot her admitting defeat.
Aman looked at Arnav at amazement -“ASR the show is this friday -and you don’t know my sister-be prepared -you know I actually feel sorry for you-bring a couple of tranquillisers your gonna need them- she has no voice -but she still manages to create the most hungama at the cinema hall!”

TS – Getting to know Khushi (part 1 of 3)

She jingled her bangles at him, right in front of his face. She looked down at his face and smiled, and presented herself before him, twirled and showed of her new sari and earring and looked up at him questionably.
He smiled , appreciation reflected in his eyes, his index finger touched his thumb followed by an a flying kiss. His approval fully granted.He stood up and grabbed his keys “lets get you to the mandir”
As he walked out of his cabin -Khushi grabbed his hand and opened his palm and grabbed the car keys smiling. Jingled them in his face shaking her head , grabbed his hand and smiling pulled him down the stairs leading the way to the car.
Laughter was not a sound that frequented AR designs often but it was a sound that followed Khushi everywhere.
People looked at her and smiled.There was something about her, her persona , her aura that made people smile and laugh. She was like a ray of sunshine, spreading happiness where she went.
The engine roared into life and just as Khushi placed the car into reverse, she heard it , the sound that made her heart stop. The sound that always curtailed her fun, ruined her plans. That ringtone belonged to only one person. The name was flashing on the screen whilst the phone did a little jig all on its own on the dashboard -mocking her , ruining her plans. His hand stretched out towards the phone to answer.
Khushi placed her hand on his gently stopping the action and looked into his eyes pleadingly shaking her head, willing him, begging him not to take the call. He gently shook his head at her and pressed answer as Khushi’s anger flared and erupted through her eyes. It was teej, she had been fasting all day and now when it was nearly time -he had to take the call. He could have easily just asked her to starve rather than go through all this natak, that she didn’t see the point of when it included her stomach. In fact why was most religious things involved the absence of food from her stomach. Must have been a man who invented these traditions , since it was always women who were having to give up food

“Yes ASR……..when……where……I’ll get a replacement vehicle sent out to you…….you want one sending to RM as well…OK one to rescue and the other to transport …no problem I’ll sort the vehicles and get back to you”
“What Khushi? why you pulling on my shoulder -its only a five minute delay and then we will be on our way. Slow down what did you say …..there are no spare drivers in the bank because its Teej most people have gone home early ….I’ll ring a hire company and they will deliver the vehicle and organise a taxi service for the Raizada house.
Khushi furiously shook her head -she picked up Aman’s phone and texted ASR car sent to RM -no spare vehicle whats wrong with yours ?
Text- Aman if I knew that I would fix it ! Order me a cab or pick me up !
Khushi Text him back -think of it as a sick child what are its symptoms ?
Aman -you ass! I hate kids -is that all you could think off ? I don’t know !
Aman saw Khushi bit her lip and looked fearfully at Aman
“Khushi -you wanted to text -so text ! you sort it out -I was just going to order him a cab!”
What’s he said to me ?
…………………….he laughed “he called me an ass -don’t worry -thats mild he calls me worse! It doesn’t mean anything -he threatens to sack me at least once a week!”………………………….why do i work for him…… he’s a good guy …….I’ve got his back and he’s got mine ..just like you have ……and the the pay and fringe benefits are excellent !”
Khushi texted him more Have you got a flat tire or will the engine make a sound when you turn the key ?
“No flat tyre and no sound and if we have stopped playing hundred questions …order the F******* car or cab for me …..NOW!”
“It’s not a nice habit to swear ….did your mother never wash your mouth out with soap and water?”
“Really Aman ?……. Please order the F****** D*** CAR ! NOW!”
…………………… Are we going to pick him up ? or order him a cab?….why are your cheeks bright red? What’s he texted you now ?
Aman started to laugh -lets go pick him up -he can drop us off and have my car till tomorrow -we can go in yours tomorrow?”
Khushi punched the coordinates into the sat nav reversed the car following the instructions in the sat nav. All too soon they saw ASR outside his vehicle talking and pacing.
Khushi and Aman got down from the vehicle
“About time too you a***……. “
Arnav spotted Khushi after launching into Aman-the girl he was with was stunning -he hadn’t seen her in any of the portfolios -she must be one of the new models on the books.
“Sorry Aman I didn’t realise you were on a date -you never said -you should have just ordered me a cab!”
Aman smiled back -Khushi wanted to come ….she wants the keys. Khushi had already walked round the vehicle twice and she says there are no flat tyres.
Aman took the keys from Arnav and handed them to Khushi.
Khushi put the keys in the ignition and turned the key ? She heard the engine turn but it didn’t spark into life.
Khushi jumped out the car and walked up to Aman; Aman erupted into laughter.
“Arnav …. Khushi says the car is like her stomach -starving -it needs feeding -you have run out of petrol”
Arnav had the decency to look up at the girl and nod sheepishly .
Aman took a spare canister from his boot and started topping the petrol tank up. Only to find Khushi shaking both her arms in desperation stopping him. Arnav looked up at the commotion ,he was trying to attend to the meeting that he was late for and all this girl was doing was creating noise -how hard could it be to top up the tank. As he looked up he saw her making various hand signals at Aman and finally point at him and then Aman -shaking her head in defeat.
Aman looked at Arnav -You take our car, and I’ll order us a rescue vehicle to tow your car to the garage- at least you can attend the rest of your meeting”
“Why is she shaking her head at us like a pair of idiots?”
“Because thats what she called us …she said I wasn’t much cleverer than you i have just filled your petrol tank with diesel!-she says not to start the car they will be able to drain and wash your engine by tomorrow -if you start it you will be stuffed!”
“Are you sure you don’t want to go and let me wait for the cab”
“No you go -the meeting is more important than the ….”
Aman felt his head being struck from behind “Owww now what ?”
He turned to speak to Khushi and then turned back to Arnav looking as sheepish as he could not knowing how to begin when Arnav saw Khushi prod him from behind .
“Your meeting isn’t not more important than our ’s but your meeting won’t wait , while god will be more understanding as he ….as he … as he ….” Arnav saw her poke him again in the ribs “ As he ….forgot to give us adequate brain cells to read a fuel gauge and the word petrol!”
Arnav could see fire being spat at Aman -poor guy -he knew exactly who wore the pants in their relationship.
Arnav -took the keys and without a thank you left shooting off to his meeting

——————————————————————————————————————————-

Chapter 2

Arnav received a text “Your vehicle is ready -fully fuelled and in the parking bay ”
It was 6:30 time to go home -he would find Aman and return his keys and pick up his car.
Arnav entered to find music belting through the airwaves and a man in overalls strumming along on an air guitar to dancing in the dark by Bruce Springstein.
Obviously the mechanic who delivered the car -what the hell did he think he was doing behaving in this manner in his offices. Arnav not used to raising his voice at his employees -usually his cold glare was enough to reduce them to a quivering mass- that was if he could be heard. Here he was being drowned out by Bruce Springstein.
“Enough !” he screamed as Aman came through the door as he saw Arnav screaming -which could be heard halfway down the corridors putting the fear of god into those employee’s finishing off their days work and sending a prayer of thanks that it was not them at the receiving end of ASR wrath.

“Just exactly what are you doing ?”
Khushi looked like a child caught with her hand in the cookie jar. Startled and scared -her expressive eyes showed fear and then looked for reassurance from Aman.

“Arnav what’s the problem ?” Walking over to Khushi and standing next to her.
“What’s the problem ? I come to return your keys and find …find …”
It was a rare event that ASR was lost for words -find what ? A young boy enjoying himself in Aman’s office after working hours.

“We have a lot of confidential information in our offices -not privy for the likes of every Tom Dick or Harry -that’s what wrong!”
Khushi didn’t want an argument flaring between her brother and his employer. She tugged on Aman’s sleeve.
Aman spoke to her with a hand gesture what ? But the look that entered his eyes was different from protector to love when he looked at her. Arnav saw the look change in Aman’s eyes leaving him more confused than he was a moment age
Khushi ran to his desk picked up a set of keys and ran over to ASR. She gave him the set of keys and opened the door showing him the exit.
‘What the …. Is he showing me the way out ….in my own building ?”
Aman laughed – “yes she is !”
“ Khushi – i have to have a word with ASR why don’t you go make me a drink and a black coffee for ASR and no sugar and …..” He had just been face palmed. “ What do you mean no snack ? I am not carrying extra few pounds” looking down at his waist. “Khushi I’m hungry, I haven’t had any lunch!”
Khushi glared at ASR “Unbelievable -what did I do ?”
Khushi returned a while later carrying a plateful of samosa’s and tea and coffee.
“Thanks monkey -you go home I’ll meet you at home …what do you mean you’re going to wait for me …..oh I see you brought ASR’s car -you have no car to get home- I’ll be half an hour …..don’t screw your face up -you don’t look pretty like that “
Arnav noticed the smile that lit up her face and eyes -it was the girl from yesterday did she ever say anything -Aman seemed to be able to read this girl perfectly. Why was she dressed in those overalls ?
“ASR lets finish -Khushi I’ll meet you in the car -go see what you can wreck!” Aman threw his keys to her.
“Aman you go home -i took up your time yesterday and now she’s waiting for again. I’ll see you tomorrow this can wait”

Arnav watched form above as he watched Aman and Khushi from his cabin -it suddenly struck him as he watched the two of them laugh and “talk”. She couldn’t speak, she spoke in sign to Aman and he was her voice. He was her voice. Suddenlly felt his heart constrict. Now he was confused and perplexed -why had she no voice -no that was wrong she had a voice -Aman ! Her eyes spoke volumes. She intrigued him .

OS – Khushi gets her Ice cream

 

Slight on the naughty side mild and definitely suggestive

Khushi Get’s her Ice cream

It was blazing hot Khushi needed something to cool her down – her grumpy husband was not faring much better than her. He had his aviators on and stared dead ahead with his expressionless face. The air con was on full blast but all she could think of was ice-cream -cool and soothing trickling down her throat soothing and cooling her from the inside .
Why did he have to drag her to this stupid meeting – he could have gone to Nanital for the meeting without her and leave her to her boredom and heat at home, at least that way all she could not only have eaten ice-cream but stuck her face , no her whole self in the freezer.

“Arnav ji please just stop for one minute at the next place to see if there is any cold drinks or water maybe?”
“Khushi we’ll be there soon how thirsty can you be ? You know I don’t like stopping once I have started driving and those places you like to eat from -I’m surprised that the food just doesn’t walk away by itself it has so many microorganisms !”
“Micro what ?”
“Bugs -cockroaches to you!”
“Arnav ji you are mean just plain mean to me! Please I promise i will zip out of the car buy the bottle and jump straight back in the car “
He felt her hand caress his arm he was already well on the way to folding but he had to hold out a bit longer. He had already dragged her to this meeting because he wanted her company , her presence just made I’m feel better and this was going to be a difficult negotiation anyway -good or bad outcome when she was with him it always felt better. But she didn’t know that also when she was around things always turned out for the better no matter how bad things initially looked. The Sham fiasco , the Shukar brothers episode . She was his lucky charm, things had jus looked up since they got married. It had almost been three years now and he still felt as though they were just beginning their journey together. He was no fool he knew she knew exactly what buttons to press to get him to do her bidding. If she hadn’t wanted to come, she would have told him in her own way and he wouldn’t have forced her. Like now he would hold out for about another ten miles and then relinquish. He enjoyed there imaginary war.He hated it when they fought in reality and usually she was right -he had learnt that after three major arguments; she had relented first and he always felt like S***, even when she said sorry. The first time he tried to make up he bought het a chain -well that’s what men do buy gifts to appease their wives . Wrong not Khushi -“why would I want to remember the time that you made me cry -take it back to the shop now or sell it I don’t want anything to remind me of the time you made me sad !” She had made him take it back to the jewellers -and he was apologetic and the jeweller was astonished but appreciative.
When they had left the shop a junior asked the owner why had he accepted the return? the answer was very simple -for a girl like that when her husband had something to celebrate he would spend three time the amount -she was special, Mrs Raizada was really special and meant the world to her husband -he would do the best to lay it at her feet, and being jewellers they would help him.

“Khushi when have you ever been able to zip out of a car and nip back in -you have to stop to speak to half the world , comment ,discuss the pros and cons ,make them your aunt and uncle if by chance you don’t discover that they are already related to you. No we will be late for our meeting!”

“Arnav -your meeting not mine -but I know we are in this together , I promised to walk beside you in this life and the next seven”

Arnav was controlling his laughter as his lips were twitching out of control, the minute she dropped the Ji from his name , he knew it was moments before he, the great entrepreneur of the year -still only a man, who adored his wife caved in. The walls of Jerico had already crumbled and lay as rubble and ruins ,but he enjoyed the negotiations she would come up with. Well he was a businessman. Deals were what he did day in and day out and the ones with his wife brought him the most immense amount of pleasure and laughter.

“Please you can time me I will be five minutes ,no hello ,no goodbyes , no aunties or uncles in and out just like that as fast as Mr Raizada”
“Err khushi when have I ever been in and out just like that as fast as that? I always take my time savouring and enjoying every second, slower the better”
Arnav ’s look and meaning put a whole new connotation on Khushi’s innocent statement. She turned bright red looking at her husband stunned into silence.
“No come back Khushi ?”
“Just drive !” She spluttered and keep your ming on the road !
“Drive or stop ? You seem to have changed your mind “
“Stop”
“I’m going to time you -five minutes”
With that Arnav slowly pulled into the next collection of shacks that appeared -that called themselves a town.
“You’re on a timer “
Khushi dived out purchased a cold drink two bottles of sealed mineral water and an ice-cream and rushed backed to the car.
“ Can’t have been more than five minutes “
“You were ten , Khushi whats with the ice cream -you know how i feel about that -you will get ill and pick up something “
“I have bought it now and your getting late drive we will argue on the way”
He noticed that she put the radio on to the latest Bollywood song and was enjoying her ice-cream to the fullest.
She licked up the melted ice-cream first not wanting to waste a single drop of the elixir. Her tongue glided across the surface from the base to the tip savouring each lick she closed her eyes ,reaching the head.and closed her lips enjoying the coldness as the ice-cream slid down her throat. She was in seventh heaven. She sucked the ice-cream into her mouth silently watched by the corner of his eye.
Back down to the base before the little drops trickled any further. She swirled her her tongue around the base ,pleasure evident on her face. The tip of her tongue popped out and licked her ever so kissable luscious lips.
What was she doing to him did she even have a clue ? Arnav was no longer sure where to focus -watching her was mesmerising , hypnotic , his attention needed to be on the road not her. But his body was responding to her of its own accord -he had little or no control. He was aroused and hard -he was sure this was illegal to eat ice-cream like this in public.
“Err Khushi quickly eat your ice-cream before it goes everywhere”
“You just drive and let me sink into the pleasure that this ice-cream is giving me” Yup only Khushi, his oblivious wife could be so unaware of his predicament that she was solely responsible for . Could he pull of the road and park up unobserved -meeting be dammed -traffic was always a good excuse. She would never give him head in the middle of nowhere. But he was desperate for her-how had she exactly got him into this state. Surely she must know his precise position.
He looked at her again uncomfortably shifting ,fidgeting in his seat his hands clenched at the wheels knuckles showing white. His mind reciting the facts and figures for his latest presentation.
Khushi continued to lick and swirl her tongue getting pleasure from each drop of vanilla ice-cream when she noted the tension in her husband his arms and then his trousers.
“Arnavji pull up behind that big tree ?”
“What ?”
“Park up behind that tree ?”
“Why ? its another forty-five minutes left to Nanital”
“I know”
As he parked up “what Khushi ?”
“This wont take long what did you say earlier in and out fast as you can !”
He sat stunned at her actions -his trouser was unzipped and he was treated to the pleasures of her tongue that he had witnessed the ice-cream getting moments ago
She looked at him – and smiled leaning over -naughtily whispered -“get driving Mr Raizada you’re gonna be late for your meeting -two unscheduled stops so far.”

He looked across at her -“Just when I think i know you -you go and pull the rug out from under my feet. Do you even begin to comprehend how much i love you or what you mean to me Mrs Raizada.”
“Just keep reminding me -now drive or you will be late”

 

OS – Akaash and Khushi – Best friends

 

Hi a long OS -sit and get the popcorn out sorry couldn’t upload the picture 5200 words approx – acup of coffee or chai latte sit back relax and take time out your busy day and enter my word of fantasy !

Akash and Khushi- Best Friends

Khushi opened her eyes as the sun seemed to stream through the window finding her -blinding her.
Who was that screaming “ Shut up !”
Akash in total agreement tried to agree but all he could manage was an incoherent whisper. Who had the music on surely everyone had gone home.His head throbbed there was a constant pounding in his head and the light was blindingly bright. It was cutting through his brain like a blunt knife slow and painful.
Khushi spoke first -“Do you want to kill us -shut the curtains …….. today. Are you just plain vengeful or what ? Shut the curtains its making him worse.”
Khushi’s eye grew slowly accustomed to the darkness she could make out a man in a three piece suit standing there looking as though he was about to commit murder. By the look on his face it was going to be Aki and herself that were the intended victims.
“Who are you ? The party is over – get out and let us die in peace”
“Aki how you feeling ?”

“Khush….I feel like death….”
“No thats the moron standing here looking at us -do you know him because I’m about to throw him out on his ass”
“Khush i have a marching band playing in my head -let me go to the bathroom first -then I’ll sort him out”
“Aki are you OK -do you need some help?”
“Khush I’m going to the toilet -I’ll manage that by myself!”
“Thank God you can do that by yourself “
“Bhai ? Is that you ? Oh crap”
“Bhai?”
“Yes it’s me -Bhai- Get your girlfriend out of here -now and the place cleaned up Nani and Di will be arriving shortly”
“What ?”
“Bhai they are not due till the 24th”
“It’s the 24 th today -oh my, doesn’t time fly when you are having fun “
“What ? but that means its monday -today ! What the…”
“Oye you Aki ’s bhai, when are Nani ji and Di coming ?”
“About three hours ?”
“Right first things first Aki lets have some paracetomols you shower I clean away the rubbish and you … are you here to help or shout and glare ?”
“ what ?”
“Khushi quickly scribbled a list -look here are some instruction go and buy these from the store across the road and come back asap”
“What ?”
“Look do you speak english ? -go..and …buy ..the …things …on the list …understand “
“What ?”
“oh you need money hand on a sec..”
Arnav watched in amazement first he had walked into their flat -it looked as though a bomb had hit the place, next he found Akash in bed with a girl -both hungover -he was a lot worse than the girl.
Now she was sending him out to buy things on a list and His Nani and Di were arriving in three hours -Akash was going to be dead meat served up for both of them to kill again. Akash and his friends had trashed his flat and god knows what else they had done. Now he was watching this girl rifle through her purse and then Akash’s wallet. Really -unbelievable she had forced the money ,list into his hand and shoved him out the door. He was about an inch away from killing his brother -better be go off and blow off some steam and then come back and sort out this mess….Akash as soon as your brain is functional you are going to wish that you were dead by the time I finish with you. Then your Di and Nani will start on you.

Khushi quickly shut the door behind Arnav, she ran back to check on Akash,
“Idiot your brother’s here, your sister and nani are on their way, what did you drink ?and how much ? The flat is trashed you need to get up and have a shower. You might feel better! I’ll clean up as much as I can before your brother gets back, hopefully I have bought us some time”
“My head Khush !’
“Aki Sweetheart -its going to be a lot more than your head on the block ,if we don’t get this place sorted -your Nani and your Di are on the way -your brother -well the less said the better. Get in that shower and keep your shorts on so I can come in and check on you”
Khushi made a few calls and an hour later when Arnav returned with the shopping list prepared to do battle and start on the flat he found a sleeping Akash and a flat that was spotlessly clean everything in order. There were no remanents of the scene that had initially met his eyes -empty alcohol bottles, broken glasses, half eaten food, left over food on the table, couple of broken pinata’s , confetti scattered on the floor, chairs upturned and to top it of , the place had smelt like a brewery a -only Khushi presence was evidence that something didn’t belong.
The flat was welcoming, it smelt of chocolate and vanilla as sensed candles and colourful flower arrangements were strategically placed around the flat.
Arnav placed the shopping in the kitchen as he continued the inspection of the flat, all the bedrooms had been cleaned and beds made and presented with little gifts on two of them one for nani and one for Di.
Arnav’s temper diminished slightly -at least the flat looked presentable -to be honest ,it looked better than it ever had. The black and white austere presentation was gone. There were flashes of colour and humour scattered through out the flat. The toilet had a sign –
“If you sprinkle while you tinkle,
Be a sweetie wipe the seatie”
Only a girl could have put that up, the windows had chimes and in Akash bedroom was a collage of photographs mostly of himself and the girl that was probably responsible for cleaning the flat in record time -since Akash was not capable of much. The idiot! He should have known better -how much had he drunk and what had he mixed to get himself into such a state.
Arnav gazed at the pictures -her eyes ,and her smile were infectious -she was stunning. Arnav felt something stir, she was attractive , no she seemed full of life and vibrant in every picture- laughing. The way Akash looked at her in the pictures showed a bond.
He had witnessed that bond earlier -when he had walked in both had been in the same bed! What the hell was he doing staring at his brother’s girl. She obviously cared for him -it was evident in the photographs, the way she had sorted the flat out and the time frame.
As Arnav returned to the the lounge, he found her feeding Akash and berating him in the same breath.
“ I don’t care, you aren going to drink this. What the hell Akash , what did you drink -if I hadn’t got back when I did -what do you think i would have found ? A dead body lying in his own vomit -do you know how many times you were sick last night -how many times I cleaned up after you! And because I had spent the last forty eight hours on the go looking after various people you included . I fell asleep next to you – your brother walked in found us together and assumed that we were both hung over. You are, but I was only exhausted from looking after you all. Don’t you ever drink that much or mix your drinks – I thought i was going to have to get your stomach pumped. Akash if anything happened to you who would I shoot baskets with , feed the ducks, play on the swings and merry go rounds . Who would partner me on the seesaw. Who would I play holi with? Swallow you soup, you will fell better. Have some nurofen now and by the time your Nani arrives and your Di you will feel half human again.”
As Khushi got up to leave Akash got hold of her hand “ sorry , I promise not to do this again!!”
“You had better not or you will ave me to deal with -this time I have let you off the hook -since its your first but the next…..”
“Khushi ,I promise there will be no next “
“What about your stag night ?”
“Not even then, besides you will be there to keep an eye on me “
“It will be your stag night -how can I be there, do i fit the description of a stag ?”
“Yup! Honorary Stag!”
“ Shut up Akash and drink some more fluids -let me finish the lunch for everyone now!’
“Did I ever tell you how special you are?”
“Aki -what do you want ?”
“Since I am forgiven -a massage for my very delicate head”
“I haven’t forgiven you !”
“You called me Aki !”
“I’ll come back after I have sorted the lunch”
Soon as Khushi left Arnav sat down “explain”
“Not now Bhai, take pity on me, I have just had an ear bashing from Khushi please can you wait till I feel better. You must have had at least one hangover in your life -this is my first and last.”
“who exactly is she?”
“She is Khushi”
“Akash I’m serious who exactly is she? What is she doing here? and are you going to tell Nani and Di about her -otherwise get her out of the flat before they arrive!”
“Nani and Di know Khushi , they often talk on Skype “
“Really ? How come they know and no one has said anything to me?”
“Bhai ? why would they say anything to you -you are the original angry young man -everyone too scared to say anything to you “
An hour later Khushi returned lunch cooked.
“Massage Time”
“Khushi can you do my head neck ….maybe shoulders and back”
“Aki don’t push your luck get in the bedroom have some more water and get your t off I’ll get the oil”
It was a long while later that Arnav returned with Di, NK and Nani to find Akash fast asleep and a delicious lunch cooked.
It was the early evening before Akash stirred to find his cousins and Nani there including his parents who arrived later.
Khushi finished her shift at 2:00 am in the morning exhausted let herself back into the flat changed and fell into an exhausted slumber.
It was the early hours of the morning as Arnav cuddled up to the warm body in his bed. He nuzzled her neck, her heady aroma heightened his senses and his body fitted around hers like a glove. His hand draped over her unconsciously caressing her breast.
His body responded to warmth next to him.
She felt so right next to him she fitted him so perfectly he wanted more – her scent he snuggled into her wanting more ,he loved morning sex.What the hell ? morning sex ? who with ? who was in his bed ? who exactly was he caressing ? His hand came to a standstill, the lower half of his body was a lot slower responding to the next set of commands than his brain , her voice -cold and menacing
“If you don’t remove your hand and the rest of yourself from my bed in the next split second Akash Raizada , I will scream blue murder before castrating you! What the hell Akash ? What pissing planet you from ? Since when do you behave like this? Your second is over and your still in my bed!”
Before Arnav could respond as his stunned brain was immobilised by her voice -Khushi-Akash’s girl. What the ….. he was in bed with his brother’s girl and enjoying it ! He couldn’t work out if he was shocked or disgusted with himself. But then he felt it and heard it simultaneously .
“Get out AKASH!” as he was unceremoniously kicked out of bed and landed on the floor with a bump
“Khushi…….. Bhai?”
Khushi looked at the doorway as she heard her name being called .
Khushi looked to the doorway “Akash Tum? to yeh kahn?” looking at the individual who was lying face down on the floor.
Arnav played for time let the dust settle ,more importantly let his body settle.Attack is better than defence after all she got into his bed. He didn’t climb into hers and why was she objecting to Akaash’s hands all over her -he had seen them earlier and then to kick him no Akaash unceremoniously out of bed. That was a mighty hefty kick for a girl of that size -his brother had found himself quite a little…Shut up Arnav -one problem at a time.
“Khushi you ok?”
“Get that idiot out of your room!”
“Oh don’t act so virginal -nothing happened! Akaash -really nothing happened ”
“What ? Get out of my room -his room whatever get out”
One pillow flew after another hitting their intended target perfectly.
“Bhai duck!” Akaash flew to grab Khushi’s hands before the next missile hit his brother square in the face. He was sure their was some sort of explanation, but in a mood like this there was no reasoning with Khushi. The vase left her hand but missed her target landing with a crash near enough its intended victim.
By this time the entire family were at the doorway watching the going ons in disbelief there Chote was lying on the floor in his pyjama bottoms having missiles thrown at him whilst Akaash was trying to stop Khushi ji from hurting him. What was going on why was Khushi in his bed ? why was Chote on the floor why was Akaash having a hard time wrestling her. All these questions were going through all the various spectators minds-but only one was going through Arnav’s -self preservation!
“Bhai get out till I sort this out !” Out everyone!”
“Khushi stop ! what happened and why are you in my bed ?”
Khushi looked up at her best friend and didn’t now where to begin -to tell him where his brother’s hand’s had been where other bits of him had been -he had been hard and aroused -what was she more ashamed of that she had thought for an instant that it had been her best friend. He would never behave like that with her. He would never betray their brother /sister relationship like that. She should be ashamed of her self for thinking like that.
“Aki I have too many late nights and my brain function is not at its best -my shift finished later than usual by the time I got home i looked in my room I found someone sleeping in my bed..”
“That was me I was waiting for you to tell you that I had more people staying than I first anticipated but you know my weekend “
“Don’t i just”
“I fell asleep in your bed”
“So I came to your room finding your bed empty -I thought it was for me so I stripped and went to bed only to find someone in my bed -your bed this morning -i thought it was you messing around so …”
“You kicked me out of bed ? What exactly was i supposed to be doing ? That was a lot of anger that you directed at my brother ? Exactly what did he do ? Khushi he didn’t try anything on with you ….did he ?”
Khushi saw the anger flare in his eyes -she saw the beginning of rage .
“No Aki ! Think about it I was in his bed -I think it was an innocent mistake”
“Khushi I will kill him “
“no Aki i think it was a genuine mistake -look lets go out and sort out this mess before your family think you have a complete lunatic living with you. Errr… either pass me my scrubs or your gown”
Khushi and Akaash looked at each other and then burst into laughter.
All everyone heard was roars of laughter vibrating through closed doors.
“Khushi which ever way you leave this room its gonna look bad -in my gown or your scrubs -i think its a fine line -scrubs are sexier!”
“Aki your gonna get hit next !”
“Scrubs it is pass them over.”
Khushi walked out of Akaash room towards her under the watchful eyes of the Raizada family.
I’m going to have a shower in my room I suggest that you have a shower in Aki room and you Aki find your own shower. Graduation is in 3 hours , explanations can wait!”
The house was a flurry of activity as everyone rushed to shower and change. They all remerged fully dressed to be met by a table laid with a full english and Indian breakfast to accommodate all tastes.
“Quickly eat everyone otherwise we will be late and you will miss Aki’s graduation.”
“Khushi I can’t …”
“Aki be quiet -eat your breakfast I have laid it out for you and I sort the rest of you out – where is Payal when you need her !”
“Khushi… please !”
“Aki pass me the tie let me stand on a chair -I can’t believe you still can’t tie a Windsor knot. Anjali Di I think now that Aki is graduated -don’t you think we should get him married ?”
If looks could kill Akaash look would have annihilated Khushi into the ground to leave a pile of cinders.
“Do you need me to feed you as well or would you rather I left that to….”
“Khushi Kumari Gupta! you are on thin ice !”
“No one heard -And I thought you needed a helping hand”
“I heard !”
“Arnav”
“Bhai “
“look about this morning -I’m sorry -just marry the girl- she has dropped enough hints and do it before Nani ji and Di realise the real extent of your relationship and then you will be both dead meat”
Both gasped “is it that obvious ?”
“Only a blind man and my family could miss the signs and evidence “
“I’ll tell Nani and Ma after graduation”
Khushi threw her hands around Akash’s neck “really ! I have to go and and make some jelabie now for Devimaiya!”
“Later Khushi!-first my graduation”
“bhai -you will help me with ma”
“Akash you really need to ask that ?” He loved his little brother -he would do anything for them Di, Mami and Nani bu right now why did he feel as though he was making a big mistake , a huge error,
It was this morning -the way this girl had handled everything in the last twenty-four hours showed how much she cared for his brother . The way she had responded to him but made him doubt her and himself. A life time of watching and not having. He knew he desired this girl more than any other he had ever laid eyes or hands on ,his bodies responses were a witness to that fact.
Akaash graduated later that day and was hugged and kissed by his whole family and Khushi. Lunch was served and celebrations carried right on into the early hours of the evening.
Only back at the flat as her watch struck seven and an alarm went off-she smiled and said to all -“my shift is starting in an hour and looking at Arnav -when I come back I am in my own room , in my own bed , no unwanted guests .”
Arnav was the first to reply -“not in your bed, but should you care to share the one last night it will be a different issue!”
Everyone laughed as all necessary explanations had been made through the day.
Khushi you want me to drop you off – you know I don’t like theses late shifts of yours.
Khushi smiled a secret smile- Arnav saw the hidden language between the two.
Those two had better come clean soon or else Mami would go up the wall as soon as she realised what those two were up to.
As soon as they were out the door Arnav saw them walking away -strange they neither held hands nor touched each other intact Akaash was on the phone talking. They were a strange pair.
“Mami ,Nani now that Akaash has graduated what do you think about him settling down ?”
“ he has chosen a girl, it’s his choice I think we should stand behind him !”
“What do we know about her backgroundwa, her family la. What’s she really Likewa?”
Di was the first to speak “ He has chosen her and that is all there is to say on the matter -whatever her family background it doesn’t matter he has picked- and knowing Akaash she will compliment him in every way.All that is left to be decided is a date – we will ask Khushi when she comes back from her shift.”
I was a bitter sweet feeling for Arnav – he had help sort his younger brothers life out with a girl who made his heart smile. Everytime he thought of her smile, her kicks her orders his heart smiled and ached a little.

Time had flown by wedding arrangements were well underway. Arnav knew that Akaash best friend was flying in from the states ; it was only after his arrival would festivities begin in earnest.
He had stayed away from the wedding madness as far as possible – cards, outfits ,jewellery , he had given them a free reign and a carte blanch as long as he was not involved and only had to turn up to only essential ceremonies.

“Bhai, can I talk to you ?”
“What’s up Akaash ?”
“ why do I feel that you are not 100% behind this wedding?”
“What Akaash ?”
“I don’t know, I get the feeling that you are holding back”
“Akaash you know my views on wedding -its not for all of us”
“you will come home for dinner tonight -Khushi’s arriving tonight -the madness will begin”
“Akaash you mean it hadn’t started yet -OMG this was a lost cause -i’ll be late tonight”

Arnav arrived late that night to be greeted by fireworks -his family was bananas and weddings made them more so. Wht the hell were there fireworks in his garden -today of all days-he thought the madness was calming down and then he remembered Akaash had said Khushi was coming over tonight. He had successfully avoided her since graduation and through out all the wedding fiasco- he supposed there was no avoiding her now.
The site that greeted him was bizarre a beautiful girl was twisting Khushi’s ear while she was shrieking
“Aki , Aki stop her I will never forgive you !”
Arnav saw Akaash take a step forward to rescue his Khushi when another voice spoke
“If your Aki interferes I’ll never forgive him”
“That’s not fair both of you I’m screwed which ever way I go”
“Welcome to married life “
“Aki , jiju help me stop Jiji -I’m going to have no ear left”
“How much more have you planned Khushi ? come clean now!”
“Jiji I have to have some fun at my best friends wedding and my Jiji’s”
It was naniji who came to her rescue – forgive her let her go -if it wasn’t for her where would you two be today ? Her heart is in the right place “
“Nani ji her heart is always in the right place her brain doesn’t always follow suit -i mean look at the picture !”
Arnav looked at the picture /cartoon /caricature of Akaash – even his laughter bubbled to the surface -it was good -the only part that was a mystery to him was exactly who Akaash was marrying . He thought it was Khushi but she had called him Jiju and the girl twisting her ear Jiji.
Those wedding cards he hadn’t paid much attention he had to get his hands on one now!
“Chote where are you going ?”
“Mandir Nani”
three voices replied in unison 
“MANDIR ?”
“I am going to pray for our safe passage throughout this wedding I have just seen who’s come!”
They all laughed remembering his last encounter with Khushi.
In the mandir , for the firs time ever Arnav thanked the gods – the wedding card stated there on the front for any idiot who took the time to read – Payal weds Akaash.
Arnav felt like slapping himself -he had been miserable for months -he couldn’t forget how she felt how he felt and now …. he actually stood a chance to find out. He still had to be exceptionally careful, she was going to be related to him and she was Akaash best friend. There was no space or time for screw ups. He needed time to think things through.
“Said your prayers Arnav “
“Hopefully we will all be protected “

Arnav watched his house literally come to life over the next few days -after the arrival of Khushi.
She seemed to be in ten places at the same time -there was no telling whose side she was on the girls or the boys one minute she was taking part from the boys side and the second she was on the girls side.She was at the boys sangeet and then at the girls, at the boys’ haldhi and then the girls.
She served and worked like a boy when it was Akaash’s function and worked like a boy when she was from the girls side .
In this mad zone she took a few minutes out for down time -no boys side or girls just her. She sat and looked up at the stars and spoke her silent thoughts.
“Do you know their names ?”
“Thats my Amma and my babuji -I was updating them on how I was coping with this crazy wedding and the latest dilemma I was in ?”
Arnav had expected her to spout out the the names of orions belt or something at the intense way that she was staring at the stars not what she stated.
“Whats your dilemma -Aki and Jiji are doing my brain in tomorrow whose side am I on boys or girls -don’t they understand that i love them both and I am fed up of picking sides !”
“Khushi forget about the wedding – for now -how long are you here for -you finished studying ?”
“In my line you never finish studying there is always another exam or paper to write- but I love it. I graduated about a year ago – I am in the middle of my post graduation at the moment – so I will be returning when this mayhem is over. I have missed living with Akaash”
“What no drunkens orgies to clear up or strangers in your bed ?”
Khushi turned beetroot red at the memory -changing the subject “he was always good hat was a one off”
“What about you Khushi? Do you fancy a quiet anything away from here with me?”
Khushi took a deep breath “ Just a anything or an actual date ?”
Arnav stared into her eyes images filling his head of the time spent together since her arrival “actual date”
“Fancy Chinese ?”
he hated chinese he could never find anything he liked “Love too”
“How about now ? we disappear and reappear in about an hour who is going to miss us in this bedlam”

Arnav grabbed her hand and sneaked out the back entrance .
They returned an hour later to find that people had been looking for them, but Arnav had just had the best chinese in the world.
The wedding finally came to a natural end and soon it was time for all guests to return home.
All guests.
Akaash involved as much as he was in his own wedding hadn’t fail to notice the look in his brothers eyes or his best friends secret glances . How they used every opportunity to do jobs together.
“Ehh bhai -can I ask you something ? Khushi is going back in three days “
“I know that”
“err are you going to miss her ?”
“I’ll be grateful for the peace and quiet and return to normality”
“You know she has three months left till her next contract .”
“Really -now why are you telling me that ?”
“You know she is committed to her job and would never leave her job half way through bu after that she is a free agent as long as no one signs her up -some one like her is usually headhunted -I’m just saying “
“thankyou for just saying”
“that morning in my bedroom what exactly happened why ddid Khushi kick you out thinking it was me? We have shared a bed before and she never kicked me out”
“That is none of your business -you didn’t ask that day and well that boat has long since sailed “
“err bhai you know that I am her Jiju and her best friend “
“Yes Akaash I know trust me this circus I have been in for the last three weeks has all been about you becoming her Jiju!”
“ Bhai ! why are you so difficult ?” Do you like Khushi ?”
“why didn’t you just ask the question directly and save all this beating round the bush, the answer to your question is yes”
Total silence followed. Khushi entered “has someone died ?”
Both looked up at her and then each other “Aki do you fancy chinese ?”
All Akash could see was Arnav signalling him -but all the signals were confused.
“what just me or all of us ?”
“All of us if your free Arnav ?”
“Khushi he hates chinese !”
“What ? “
“if Arnav is going it will have to be Italian -but you hate italian”
Khushi looked at Arnav and both broke into laughter -“i’m sure I can manage one italian meal after all the chinese that I fed him!”
“Arnav has had chinese ?”
“Over the last two weeks I think everyday with me “ Khushi laughed harder
“You had chinese -you hate chinese you never go when we go !”
“it’s what you do when you love some but don’t want to say it -actions speak louder than words!”
Khushi stood on tiptoe and quietly kissed his cheek and left -not sure who was more in shock Arnav or Akaash.
“Ohh and Aki if your my best friend -you will never ask what happened that morning in your bed that morning “
As cool as Khushi tried to appear her colour was anything except cool -the brightest shade of red .
Akaash’s mind could only wonder what had exactly happened that morning and Arnav well he just smiled .
He wasn’t about to share any news with anyone or else that madness would begin again. For now it was enough that they knew that she was returning at the end of three months to become Mrs Arnav Singh Raizada, his ring was worn around her neck news not to be shared with the rest of his crazy family.
He would tell them ooo about forty eight hours before the due date.
“I think it was chinese you wanted”
“No Arnav -Italian is fine”
Akaash looked on in disbelief his brother was readily suggesting doing something he disliked.
“Bhai how about chaat “
“No”
“No”
Arnav hated chaat more than chinese. Now he had his brother he wasn’t going to let go so easily. It’s not often that you got the better of Arnav Singh Raizada and when you did -you just didn’t let go that easily.
“Just for the record she loves chocolate , cake , and jelabie -basically everything you don’t -oooo I am so going to enjoy watching this”
“Aki get jiji and meet us downstairs”
If he had ever had marching orders these were them.
“Akaash is going to make my life hell till you come back what was that peck you gave me -that was a sorry excuse of a kiss”
“That was the best you were going to get in front of my Jiju, do you really hate chinese ?”
“I’m finding dishes that are quite palatable and the company makes the difference -now my kiss before we go downstairs”

OS – Arnav’s Realization

Many thanks to Ammz 4873 for the title – I struggled with the name -but I loved the suggestion !

Many thanks !

xxx

 

OS – I need a Name for this story any suggestions ?

“Hi, Khushi , I’ll be home in about an hour and I really fancy some Kerala”
“Hi yourself, have you just landed? Kerala? I’m making you pasta!”
“I’ve been away for ten days, I just fancy some –please or just dal will do……. I‘ve missed you”
“You‘ve missed me or my cooking?”
“Both!”
“Ok just get here ,I’ll see what I can rustle up for you..Bye”
He’d been away in Hong kong for the last ten days paying ASR division in HK a visit. She hated it when he left on site visits , whilst he was based in New York.
Khushi quickly made some fresh dishes just as he had asked.
Khushi heard the key turn, Arnav walked in and dumped his bag in the foyer of her flat and placed his laptop and and phone on the table.
“I’m in the kitchen”
He came up behind her and placed his arms around her waist from behind pulling her into him. He inhaled her scent and then nuzzled her neck,trailing warm gentle kisses down her neck occasionally nipping her neck causing Khushi to jump.

“Arnav -stop it – Behave you will mark me – I don’t want any hickey’s, it’s to hot to wear high collars or cowl necks”

–“ Oh… I thought I had already marked you !”

All Khushi could do was turn red and remain speechless.

“Really Khushi -no comment -? Oh it’s so good to be back –I missed you and that smells lovely.”
“What me or the food?”
“Both” Arnav laughed. He laughed a lot around her. “Do I get a proper welcome home or is just your back chat I’m going to get?”
“What do you expect, you give me less than an hour,  forty minutes to be precise to make you something you want to eat and then ask me if you’re going to get a proper welcome home?”Khushi looking at her watch placed a quick peck on his lips

”Look, that will have to do for now, you go have a shower by which time I will have finished the dinner and then you can have a proper welcome home kiss. Ok –go hurry or your kiss will be longer getting to you –you need to wash away all your travelling dust . Go! na!… Arnav stop kissing me you’re such a distraction. I’ll end up burning the food and then you’re going to have Maggi Noodles and fun I’ll put melted cheese and chilli sauce on it for you!”

“Khushi , I’ll go now –you’re the only one I know that has melted cheese on Maggie. That is a taste I will never develop! or want too-ugg! melted cheese and chilli sauce. I’m not sure which is worse.Khushi you eat some weird combinations ”

“Blame my childhood-we ate what we could ! and were grateful for it -Payal loves Maggi with melted cheese and chilli too!”
Arnav looked in the cupboard pulled out a clean set of jeans and a T and then changed his mind pair of boxers would suffice-forget the jeans –who was he dressing for –he was not planning on going anywhere-he had missed her this trip had eaten into his six weeks with her before he had to return to Dehli. For now that was a whole world away -he had to make up for lost time.
Arnav was enjoying the hot spray, washing away his tiredness from all the travelling. He  felt the hot water sooth his aching muscles and then he stiffened. Literally, not just his shoulders but the other parts as well –he hadn’t realised when the shower door had opened and Khushi had stepped in. Not until he felt her behind him, with her hands caressing his chest .He snuggled into her as she caressed his front. She lathered his pecs and then his six-pack going lower and lower. Anticipation was filled with disappointment as her  hands returned to his shoulders leaving Arnav aroused.  The promise of what might have been had to be voiced maybe she just needed a gentle reminder –“What you doing Khushi ?”
“You said you were tired –so I am massaging you!” laughter bubbling her words.
“You know that’s not all you’re doing- you know exactly what you’re doing”
“Turn around Arnav so that I can be sure that you front is all done”
This girl was in every fabric of his being –he really couldn’t live without her –he had really missed her these last ten days –but the HK site visit was well over due . He had a few issues to iron out at the site like the… where were those hands of her going … he was losing focus …all he could think about right now was making passionate love to his girl.
Khushi looked at him he was definitely hot and hard and bursting –she better get him in the bedroom fast she could see how hard he was and how much he wanted her. Those eyes smouldered -the passion in them was readily seen-any minute now he would voice his need. She knew his body well, every look every movement every unvoiced thought. She had loved him unquestionably ,without expectation for the last four years -taking whatever he wanted to give expecting nothing in return.
“Khushi lets get out of here in the next five minutes or I’m having you in the shower- protection be dammed”
Khushi rinsed Arnav and herself off and dried him slowly and led him into the bedroom. “First things first –have you had your medication?”
“Before I got in the shower- I was expecting a different type of dinner!”
“Food first then Arnav –I’m not having you pass out on me half way! ”
Arnav laughed “I can’t ever see myself passing out on you half way- may be at the end –you do give a man a run for his money”
“Shut up Arnav jump into bed. You know if I said that to any other man he would be in it by now”
Arnav grabbed her hand and looked at her seriously “you had better not be saying that to any other man –you are mine and nobody else’s!”
“Arnav stop it you’re hurting me!I I was only joking –jump into bed I know you are tired”
Khushi fed him and herself slowly.
“Khushi I have missed you, you’re cooking , you’re laughter, you’re smile, you’re eyes- I have missed everything about you –the way you sprawl yourself all over the bed and sleep in your taekwondo style or should I say octupussy style-arms and legs all over me. Can I have dessert now?”
“I’ll get you some”
Arnav caught hold of her hand and pulled her into bed “That wasn’t the type of dessert that I was talking about – you need to to finish what you started in the shower”
It was a long while later that Arnav nuzzled her neck and said “Now that’s what I call a proper welcome home”
He pulled her into his side and held her close intertwining his hand with hers and fell asleep. This was the most restful sleep he got when he was with her. Here he could unburden his load of responsibilities and sleep breathing in the sedative fragrance of the woman who meant more to him than his life.
Soon as Khushi heard his steady breathing –she disentangled herself from him –showered and changed and left a not for him incase he woke –she turned his phone off –no vibrations to wake him –nothing ! Just the rest he needed before he started working again. Khushi returned to AR designs-NY office. KKG entered her offices and asked her PA and best friend Payal to see if there were any urgent meetings that ASR had to attend that evening in his diary. If there were –they should either be rearranged or she would attend instead of him. Khushi ran the NY office and was also the head designer of the NY sector.
“Err did you have a nice lunch?”
“Yes I did, thank you Payal and stop smirking!”
“Khushi what are you doing with him?”
“Payal I love him –and he doesn’t believe in marriage-yet, but he will.”
“Khushi –you have been in a relationship with him for the last four years. I know you both guard your privacy closely –but he lives with you while he’s here, he hardly visits his flat- I can’t even remember the last time he stayed there. Aman and I know about both of you –but it’s only a matter of time –and when his family find out , Akaash won’t be that bad but his sister and grandmother –from all reports are traditionalists –they are going to be looking for a traditional Indian girl from a good respectable family. You’re the one who is going to suffer from a broken heart –he will leave you, and go with what his family want –and you Khushi you won’t even fight for him because you would never want him to chose between you and his family-just in case you lost!”
“Payal enough of the big sister lecture –we have to sort the appointments”
“Khushi you look after this division so well, he has no issues with this branch, we are showing the most profit , soon there will be no excuse for him to be here, he should be spending more time in Dehli site –Aman says there are quite a few concerns there with the next season’s line up and Aman sent over a email for him re those designs ; he may have to fly back there they are on a six week deadline. Akaash is worried as well.”
“Payal check the meeting calendar first and then get Aman to email me all the designs , every single one- I’ll have a quick look and see if there is anything I can do now and then tomorrow when Arnav comes in he can have a look-OK”

A while later Payal heard her name being shrieked as though a murder was taking place.
“Payal !”
“What’s wrong with the world? Whose died Khushi ?”
“What? No one ! ”

“Then why are you screaming for me like that? ”

“These designs ! The fabric has been murdered and who cuts fabric in that way ? Anyone in first year design knows that to get the fall of the fabric cut it on the bias. They need a lot of help , who the hell was the designer on this range -it certainly wasn’t Arnav -no way ! I know his style”
“Khushi , I’m sure you know his style”

“Payal -I’m talking about designing -Arnav has a very individualistic style and taste”
“Khushi what did you think that I was talking about ?”

Khushi ignored Payal -there were more serious matters to attend to those designs need a lot of help –

“I’m going to work on them from my studio at home – I have no meetings tomorrow so I may come in and work on them here or from home “

“Khushi are you sure –these are Indian designs and you design the western line do you even know what the Indian/Asian market want?”
“Well unless I have a go I will never know will I and if I screw up Arnav will fix it. Let’s see how good a designer I am?”
“Are you looking for praise? You know I already think that you are a fabulous designer. Go home I’ll take care of everything here and Arnav tomorrow if he comes in! Not in your special way but I will take care of him”
Payal ducked as a pen went flying past her ear. She exited Khushi’s office promptly to ensure all further missiles met the closed door and not the intended target. They had been friends for far too long now, they were more sisters than friends. Khushi and Payal’s friendship started in the orphanage when another girl had been pulling Payal’s hair wanting her bar of chocolate . Khushi had fought the other girl off and let Payal eat her bar of chocolate as well as Payal’s own bar.
They had a dream they would be adopted together and be sisters forever. But as the girls got older the dream vanished as they realised that no one adopted twelve-year olds. They became each other’s family and their dream changed they would marry brothers and become sisters. But with the march of time that dream grew fainter and fainter and slowly vanished. They realised that they were already sisters and they didn’t need anyone else to make their relationship official.
Khushi could hear Payal’s laughter from the other side of the door.
Khushi arrived back at her flat and peeped in on Arnav and he was fast asleep. She came up to him and kissed him and in his sleep he grabbed her “Where did you go?”
“You knew that I left?”
“mmm always – now get back into bed.”
“I’ve got some work to do”
“Your boss is giving you the afternoon off”
Khushi smiled and kissed him which was intended as a quick peck but Arnav had other ideas and it was only a matter of minutes that Khushi was naked and in bed with him.
“I have so little self-control around you Arnav –it’s not good and you take advantage of me”
“You want me to stop or carry on taking advantage of you ?”
“Don’t stop”
It was a while later that Khushi slid out of bed without making a noise .
“You are sneaking off again?”
“I’m going into the studio –catch up on your sleep then come and join me –I’m not going anywhere. I was as quiet as mouse –how did you know that I had left ?”
“Khushi I always know. I have a built in Khushi radar system. ”
Khushi started in the studio looking at the title and designs. First thing she did was change the title of the show “ Mid-Summer in the City” that was far more catchier than plain old summer.
She started designing light fabric clothes with delicate embroidery on printed chiffons and muslins. She used light silver thread embroidery with a scattering of sequins. Khushi designed outfit after outfit telling a story of a girl and boy arriving in the city , sightseeing working , playing in the city, their night life and finally their wedding.
She was pleased with her designs and she was sure that Arnav would approve –she had crossed western designs with more traditional colours and Indian deigns such as a long dress with a fish tail and a heavily embroidered chuni and the wedding outfit had a boned bodice corset with traditional mirrored embroidery and a full muslin layered lengha with the lower layers carrying mirror work.
Arnav walked in holding a steaming cup of tea for her, he was showered and dressed.
“Tea? You been up all night ?”
“What time is it ?”
“Seven …..am. I’ll swap you a kiss for a cup of tea. What have you been designing was it my lovemaking that inspired you ?”
Khushi –laughed taking the tea and kissed him – you can’t look at my designs yet. Have you looked at your emails ?”
“No and amazingly my phone has not rung would you know anything about that?”
“Listen even God rested on the seventh day –so I figured that even you need rest. Check your emails –especially the one from Aman –he is worried about your next launch called Summer. You check the mails and I’ll drink my tea while I use you as my back support”
“You’re free to use me anytime, for whatever you want”
Khushi curled her feet under herself and drank her tea cuddling into Arnav as he switched on his laptop and phone.
She felt the tension growing in him as he came to an end. He was scowling and emailing various people three hours later and several phone calls later followed by a  lot of swearing. It was the foul language and the anger that emanated from Arnav’s body that woke Khushi up.

Arnav looked guiltily at Khushi – a sense of loss already pervading every cell in his body. He had already had to go to HK now he had to return to Dehli. Leave her again. Arnav felt his heart constrict, a sense of foreboding, a sense of loss fast approaching. He was going to have to leave her again -he had hardly spent any time with her on this trip. It was the time that he spent with her, that allowed him to store enough memories of her  in his brain to allow him to spend time away from her. She was the half that was missing from his life -she completed him -gave him strength to cope and carry on. She made all his problems seem inconsequential. He wanted to be able to package her up and place her in his breast pocket -and take her everywhere with him -next to his heart. Always with him. Back to reality -he had to go , she had to stay. His brain was already focusing on how quickly he could resolve the issues and find a reason to come back. But come back sooner than planned was his intention.
“Hey sleeping beauty – got some bad news – I have to go back to Dehli anything urgent in the NY site? Otherwise I’ll leave tonight and I’m not sure when, but I’ll be back ; I will try and come back for a couple of days. I won’t last that long without you”
Khushi smiled “It’s the Summer show isn’t it I saw the designs –they need a lot of work –actually they need scraping and starting again- Arnav I know I only design western wear  for you , would you let me help you design- I know you don’t usually design with anyone else but I want to help you –otherwise you are going to be one mean tempered person who will probably sack Aman about five times in the process along with Akash and dig yourself into an early grave. The rumours of your bad temper will flood all the offices! Thats going to be bad for morale ”
“Khushi  STOP! firstly you’re not just anyone –you’re my everything –I  don’t what I would do without you. As far as I’m concerned you can do whatever you like. I don’t stop you from anything –you know everything there is to know about me. It’s you who refuses to access to my laptop and emails; you know all the passwords to my accounts. It’s you who refuses to spend the money that I earn. I ordered you a card for you –so you could spend whatever you wanted – you fought with me and cut it up! That’s why I stopped buying you  anything. I hate fighting with you. As for your designing ability – you are out of this world – I only give you western lines because I thought that was what you wanted –if you want to design the eastern line, you can. I have no doubt in your ability –if you took that title head designer worldwide, you would produce some absolutely fabulously designs I’m sure. You know in the last four years I have never seen you in Indian clothing –you would look out of this world”
“That’s because you seem to spend most of your time taking me out of clothes! Look don’t go of topic –I asked Aman to email me the designs-please don’t shout at me –but they were awful not up to our usual standard –nothing new ,nothing innovative , nothing eye-catching not even the title –so I spent the night working a few designs”
“So that’s what you didn’t want me to see just yet – can I have a look now”
“Arnav- they are my first draft – I’m not totally happy with them yet they need work yet”
“Khushi stop it. Let me just look at the first draft –you know that I will give you my honest opinion I always do remember when you first attempted at baking egg free cakes.”
Khushi smiled at the memory –her first attempt at baking an egg free cake – Arnav said it was delicious but the formula would serve used as a formula for latex.
Khushi sat there chewing her nails all the time Arnav looked at the designs half an hour later
“Khushi stop chewing your nails!”
“You’re being a total ASR – I’m sitting here dying –and you have not let a single emotion flicker through your eyes –you have kept a deadpan face –your frigging poker face –unreadable”
Arnav walked up to her and picked her up and swung her round –“for a first draft they are works, you should have started designing the Indian line a long time ago”
“Now you carry on working , resting I don’t care, you just came through for me –I’m going to work to sort a few things out then I’ll phone you and let you know what time I‘m coming home”
“Arnav what do you fancy for dinner?”
“Anything except egg free cake , pasta , noodles , Chinese, Thai , English, pizza ,burgers”
“Right that doesn’t leave a lot –so straight forward terms just tell me what you want?”
“alloo puri and chat “
“That’s my favourite –not yours”
“Exactly – I like the faces you make when you eat chaat and pani puri. I love the way you dry my lips when the pani leaks out with your fingers and I love the taste of your lips when you have eaten a box of jelabie. Now the quicker I leave the quicker I get back –by the way how is Payal ? Why do I get the feeling she doesn’t like me?”
“She’s fine and she likes you!”
“Don’t lie to me Khushi, I can see it in your eyes”
“Ask her, it’s not that she doesn’t like you –it’s just that she doesn’t trust you”
“What ? Unbelievable !”
It was late into the night when Arnav returned. He knew he was in trouble, what a day he had had. Just when he thought that he had sorted out the Summer show, he realised that it would have to be straight after Diwali leaving them little time to turn the orders around. When he told Payal that he was taking her and Khushi to India she completely flew into a rage. It had taken a lot of calming down on his part and he had to see things from Payal’s side. He hadn’t initially, after Payal had a screaming match with him and called Khushi, all sorts of names .
Arnav what do you think will happen in India –what when they find out that you two are living together. You’re grandmother will never accept her neither will your sister. Are you ashamed of her ? Is she not good enough for you? Me and Aman hide your secret why ? If society accepts it why do we hide the real extent of your relationship? If you take us to india be prepared for the fallout because there we can’t protect the both of you, here people don’t really care, that’s why you get away with it and Khushi loves you too much, so she swallows her real feelings on this matter ?Why do you think she has never let you give up your flat and why do you think she lives in her own ? When they find out that the great ASR has being playing house with his lead designer KKG what do you think they will do to her in the news? They will make mince meat of her –she won’t survive the crap they will write about her –mistress, slut, whore!
It was at this point that Arnav let loose he almost slapped Payal, you’re talking about the women I love – so shut the F*** up !”
“I’m her sister –we have been together since forever-she has always looked out for me and now it’s my turn –we are not going to India –either you give your relationship a proper name or stop seeing her –break her heart while I’m here to help her through and let her find someone else and let her marry someone else and have kids with him !
“Never !”
“You claim to love her then do what’s best for her and stop thinking of yourself and your needs, what about her needs. Arnav the longer you are in a relationship with her , the harder it will be for her to mend she will shatter into so many pieces that we will never be able to fix her.”
“Payal you know that I love her, my world revolves around her.”
“Unfortunately there are more than just the two of you in the world, and I am not letting anyone raise fingers at my sister, you almost slapped me when I called her a few names and that’s when I love her and want the best for her . How many people are you going to shut up –think about it Arnav . Do you think that she is not good enough for your family ?”
“No Payal , I’m not good enough for her”
“That won’t wash with me Mr Raizada-she happens to love you so I need an answer ?”
“Let me put it another way for you Arnav where do you see yourself in ten years –with or without Khushi?”
“With Khushi ?”
“With children without children?”
“I hadn’t thought about that ?”
“Don’t give me that carp Arnav – I know you both use protection –so somewhere in your brain you have thought about children. I know Khushi , and I know that from the world where we come from she wants at least three if not five. Are you going to take away her right, her dream? Or are you going to let her have those children with another man.  ”
“ NO! Khushi will make a wonderful mother”
“Arnav give yourself a break and her, you will make a wonderful father and partner, I see the things you do for her ,I see the way you make her smile-think about what I have said! You and her permanent or her and someone else?”

Stoney silence followed both individuals looked each other up and down-no longer employer and employee but two individuals who loved the same one unconditionally. Want the best for her , her happiness was far more important than theirs.
“ Payal you say you are her sister, will you come to India with us so I can introduce the woman I intend to marry and her family ,to my family”
“ARNAV!” Payal threw her arms round his neck.
“I haven’t asked her yet she might say no!”
“You’ve got me on your side –she doesn’t stand a chance”
Three weeks later Shantivan was a buzz with lights and laughter and music. Diwali celebrations were in full flow. Arnav was busy entertaining guests talking to them whilst he kept looking at his watch and then the door expectantly. The flight from New York had arrived late consequently everything was running off centre. Khushi and her team of models and designers and Payal hadn’t arrived yet. He knew the plane had landed but that was all he knew –no communication from them as yet .
It had been three weeks since he had proposed to Khushi and she had accepted, he had then flown back to tell his family that he finally met a girl that he wanted to marry –she was a designer –the head designer that ran the New York site ,her name was KKG.
Nani had initially not spoken to Arnav , until Anjali had intervened on his behalf.

” Give the girl a chance –at least he wants to settle down and get married and have children –that means great grand children Nani –Arnav’s children – your Chote’s children! you wouldn’t want to miss out on that. You know she is American give her a chance –meet her half way. She will find us equally intimidating we are traditional Indians- can you imagine what must be going through her head. I know she doesn’t know our ways and customs, but if we meet her half way then I’m sure that she will meet us half way. Nani remember Chote chose her -she will be special”
“What do we know about her ? she has got herself a nice rich boy from a good family? What kind of family does she come from? I was speaking to Akaash asking him how long Chote had being seeing her ? he seems to think maybe a year or more. I think he was lying because he wouldn’t look me in the eye so I think it’s more than a year.”
“Nani , just ask me – I have been seeing her for four years.”

“Four years? Did I really live this long to hear this ? I should have died before I heard this -my own flesh and blood -where did I go wrong with you? Four years -Arnav Singh Raizada, what exactly were you thinking ? Oh… don’t make it worse , don’t tell me she is pregnant ?”

” Nani please stop. She ‘s not pregnant. I love her and that’s why I am marrying her. She is equally important to me as you are”
“Yeh, so after a few roll’s in the hay with her, you are now making her my equal , who has looked after you for the last 28 years”
“Nani! I love all of you , you will love her just give her a chance –a fair chance nani without any drama. Actually be as dramatic or filmee as you like you will both get on exceptionally well”
“OK for Anjali’s sake. Fine – so when do I get to meet her”
“Diwali function –the flight will arrive in the morning and the whole team will come over for the celebrations in the evening and she won’t feel so isolated”
“What about us ?”
“Nani JI this is your house! She is the one likely to feel lost and isolated -new country -new in laws-mad ones at that -she’s got to meet you Di and Mammi ji NK and Akaash -no wonder I waited four years -I had to make sure she wouldn’t run away from my mad family! ”
Good grief did his grandmother take a degree if being difficult- as much as he tried to bring a bit of normality to the situation she was intent on taking everything the wrong way.
First his show down with Payal, then his Nani and Di. The only one who didn’t have any expectations and tried to keep him happy was his angel. If he had realised getting married was so much work he would have eloped with her and then brought her home. At least then the fuss would have died away in twenty-four hours. This was just plain torturous –but if it made Khushi happy then he would go to hell and back for her –but where was she?
Dandia music started to play when suddenly Arnav sensed her presence –” she’s here Nani , Di I can feel her”. Arnav turned around to see his whole team playing dandia all dressed in lengha’s –all KKG designs each one a stunning creation and Khushi looked breathtaking.
His eyes just gazed at her drinking in the vision –he had never seen her dressed in a lengha-if she looked this good how would she look in a red sari.
Di nudged Nani as they watched Arnav just stare. Anjali signalled with her hand that, that he was a lost cause.
“OK Chote which one is she ?”
“The most beautiful one”
Akaash spoke up “Please don’t say the one in the green lengha –she is …..”
“No not that one she is Payal –her sister”
“Chote I thought you said she was American”
“She is – she was born in America and lived all her life in America”
“Her sister name is Payal-that is not an American name”
“Her name is Khushi “
“Then why did you call her KKG”
“Because she designs under her initials her name is Khushi Kumari Gupta”
“Well she not one of the two blonde girls so which one is she ?”
“Anjali you really have to ask look at the girl who is dancing but looking at him –and wearing red”
They all started directly at Khushi who by now was blushing as she was fully aware of Arnav’s gaze staring at her undressing her mentally.
Finally when the dandia finished, the team made way across to Arnav.
“I hope we made an entrance and not a spectacle of ourselves”
Arnav grabbed Khushi hand and went to kiss her lips which Khushi deftly avoided by turning her head and bending down to touch Arnav’s Nani’s feet .Khushi turned her back to Nani and glared at Arnav a warning look. Arnav thought what the hell had he done now? Why was she glaring at him.
Nani this is my sister Payal , Payal did the same .
“Chote go get some drinks for these girls they have shown more etiquette and manners than you seem to have. You seem to have momentarily forgotten that this is a Diwali celebration”
“Nani ji – he thinks he still at work and can order us about and we will jump to his every command”
“Bitia I know he is bad tempered and demanding-I take the blame for that ,I have thoroughly spoilt him- you will have to sort him out “
“You both know that I am standing here –not invisible –and Nani ji this is part of my team –they work for me –leave me with some respect?”
“Don’t worry Nani Ji , we will sort him out. Boss drinks please ” Payal joined in the conversation
By the time Arnav returned with a waiter carrying a tray of drinks he saw his Nani deep in conversation with Khushi and Payal . The girls had his family eating out of their hands and that was strange Akash seemed to be following Payal around. He seemed to have the hots for Payal. Arnav smiled to himself –this was going to be a very interesting show.
After about an hour’s conversation with his Nani. Nani started laughing you had better go and spend some time with my grandson otherwise he is likely to self combust in anger . I have been watching him trying to get your attention for the last half hour –he looks about ready to explode. You are not at all what I expected – I’m glad, I not often wrong –but this time I am glad – you seem to be perfect for my grandson. I think he is still trying to figure out the look you gave him when you came in and he tried to kiss you ..”
Khushi blushed “ err I .. Naani ….I…”
“You have more common sense than my grandson and i think well versed in the ways of our culture and tradition. I can see that by the way both of you girls conduct yourself and behave. But go spend some time with him, then come back to this old lady later”
“Nani ji –you’re not an old lady- just one with more experience, wisdom and knowledge”
Nani laughed and “ you know how to make an old, no a wise lady happy , now let me give you something –these Kangans were Arnav’s mothers intended for his bride. I had given up all hope of that ever happening.”
“Finally Khushi – what took you so long – I have been signalling you for ages come with me now!”
He took her out into the kitchen and then into the gardens round the back down some stairs past a pool to his room and locked his door
“Arnav what are you doing ? Where are we going – whose room is this ? This is your room isn’t it-it’s boring and plain ! Are you mad?”
“No they all think I have taken you out into the garden not my room?”
“What if someone see us?”
Arnav had already closed the distance between them and had his arms around her and was focusing on her lips asking his question inbetween warm kisses“We ….are… going… to ….be ….engaged …. married ….–let them speculate. ….I …..have ……missed …..you …..more ….than …..ever-Have you not noticed that everyone rooms are on one floor whilst you and Payal have rooms on a different floor –both rooms have king size beds. Think about Khushi – I have no intention of being celibate –I have missed you too damn much “

Along period of silence followed as they both investigated the recesses of each other mouths. Arnav’s hands had undone her dori and were fondling caressing her breasts -that were hard erect by now. Both wanted more , both needed more.
Khushi kissed Arnav “ My sister is not stupid you know She gave our rooms to two of the models –me and Payal are sharing on the floor with everyone else”
“What , unbelievable! Mark my words, I will find us time together alone away from everyone prying eyes. I can’t believe that you’re all conspiring against me.!”
“Arnav did I tell you that I love you- but until we get married sex is of the table!”
“What the hell…. … Come on .. he grabbed her hand and pulled her with him”
“Now what ? where are going to Arnav ?”
“Eloping !”
“Arnav –behave”
“You’re forcing me to all I want to do is misbehave with you”

Through the fog of passion they heard a loud persistant knocking.
“Chote are you in there?”
“Unbelievable – YES Nani ji “
“You had long enough with her – are you both decent ? so now bring her out and and let us share- I’m not having any gossip about my daughter-in-law. Understood!  And Arnav I don’t make it a habit to talk through closed doors “
“Yes Nani Ji “

A minute later a very sheepish Arnav opened the door and a ver red Khushi looked at Nani.
“Khushi Bitia, I don’t know what your long-term plans are but I checked with the priest and the earliest data for the wedding is in approximately three months – is that OK with you “
“Nani ji whatever date you decide is fine with us –isn’t Arnav”
“No it’s not, something sooner!”
“Arnav , whatever DATE NANI JI says is fine –OK !”
“Nani three months is fine, but Khushi will have to go back to new York office after the fashion show and train someone to take over before returning to be here permanently with us”
“Now both of you come back the way you left in about ten” looking at Chotes face “ make it fifteen minutes”
“Arnav –you gave in very easily to Nani’s date”
“Well two things – firstly I am going to have to interview whoever is going to take over the New york branch before you can leave – so I am going to spend time with you and have my wicked way with you. Secondly we are still going to elope and get married –this no sex rule isn’t going to work – and then we will get married again in front of everyone, whenever they want three or six or even nine months-they can have a whole year, as we will be married.”
“Arnav come here” She kissed him “I love you – now come on let’s go back the way we came here”
“Khushi –just so that you know I love you”
“I know”

 

 

 

A girl like that

I had written a few more parts to this story I just didnt  realise that I had not updated it here – so here are all the parts togethere.

A long read ! Don’t get bored hang in there friends  see it through to the end.

I’ve been hot air ballooning recently since our weather has been so fantastic -absolutely an awesome experience -if your not scared of heights have a go – the peace is absolutely out of the world and the views are to die for .! Enough! The story –

 

Part 2

(Just a bit of Fun )

A Girl Like That

Another boring lunch – Arnav was fed up how hard could it be to find the crazy mystery girl.

Six weeks and six lunches he had his Di organize on the pretext that he wanted to meet the individual who had come up with a mind blowing idea to raise money for the charity – except he didn’t have her name only what she wore.

“Really Arnav – you can describe to the last detail what colour sari , embroidery , jewellery the girl had on , the cut of her blouse -but not her name.”

“I design clothes for a living – it’s my thing if I didn’t notice her clothes what would you have me notice?”

“There must have been half a dozen sponsors at the charity event with their daughters , I’ll invite each one to lunch and hey presto we will find your sari.”

It had seemed like a good idea at the time, but it had been a waste of time and mind numbingly boring. He couldn’t even complain to Di -he had asked her.

Now here he was attending a wedding for Di sake hopefully he would be able to pick her up and leave. He hated weddings they were boring and mundane and to top it off you had all the mothers and Aunti ji trying to palm their daughters on to you-to make your life as miserable as theirs.

He hadn’t been there five minutes to find his Di “they are running late”

“So whats new for an Indian wedding -when did they ever run on time – how late ?”

“Not bad only about an hour”

“What ? You didn’t think to phone me -Diii!”

“Enjoy”

“Humphhh- first those bloody lunches and now this – just perfect”

Thank god for Smart Phones – he would go out into the garden and finish his emails.

Arnav was busy walking into the garden typing he didn’t see the flash of green and pink hurling herself towards him.

CRASH !

The impact sent both of them flying crashing to the floor.

Arnav’s phone went flying out of his hand and he wasn’t sure which was worse the impact his back had taken or his front where he felt he had been punched.

That scent- jasmines -it was so familiar. He had been floored in a flying tackle and the offending party was still lying on him. The warmth of her body permeated through his shirt. Even in this state he could feel his body stir. His body recognized the stranger lying on top of him. She molded to him perfectly.

Di had come looking for him and had witnessed the accident along with a group of girls and boys. Everyone stopped -pin drop silence.

Arnav looked up to find a pair of shoes waving in his face – shocked “What the …” then a voice like soothing balm to his painful body

“Girls side or boy’s?” the shoes continued to be waved in his face.

No apology , no sorry , no are you ok -only -there she was again

“Girls side or boy’s ?”

Arnav had no idea he had just come to pick up Di.

Those eyes ,full of laughter and mischief . “Your side”

“Right answer mate”

Di was worried ,had they been hurt ,would he erupt how much of an explosion would there be , Di started rushing over to check.
Khushi rolled of him “Thanks for the soft landing”

“Happy to oblige”

She held the shoes in one hand and held the other out to help him up.

He smiled up at her.

Di held her breath. Her Chote had not exploded but the opposite he had smiled -a truly rare event. The crowd was gathering.

“I’m fine”

Few of the onlookers had seen Khushi slam into Arnav Singh Raizada and had come to watch out of concern, others had crowded round because Khushi held the prize -the groom’s shoes.

Khushi scurried behind Arnav placing him as a buffer between the boys and the girls. The bartering began. Khushi fighting her corner then elbowing Arnav into backing her up.

Di was speechless any minute now that world renowned temper would make an appearance. Did Khushi really just elbow him? Khushi didn’t know her brother like she did. 1…2…3…when would he explode?

Arnav couldn’t work out what he was more shocked by -the accident ,meeting her being involved in this theatrical mess or just having been elbowed. Enough was enough ! Time to put his Harvard business skills to use -there was no way he was going to let the boys side win.

Numbers flew back and forth . Khushi not being one to be left out joined in throwing in jibes and comments about the groom being an oaf ,stupid and dumb along with the boys side, whilst the brides side were stunning and spectacular intelligent.

In the end, as the playful insults were thrown back and forth Arnav had had enough. He clamped a hand over Khushi’s mouth named a figure full and final settlement and her silence to boot -wasn’t that a deal worth making.

Di was worried for Arnav -he didn’t know Khushi like she knew Khushi.

The boys side all laughed and the deal was done. Khushi was struggling at the way that she had been shut up and was trying to get herself free.

“Stop struggling ,the deal is done you are going to be silent and return the shoes -OK!”

She glared at him “are you really on my side ?” pouting. Arnav’s heart did a little flip at the pout.

“Yes -really – do you think you could have got more ?”

Shoes returned Khushi took her money. Surrounded by a group of girls shared it out equally with them .

“Hey -where is my share ? I played the most important part”

Khushi stared at him , looked him up and down and stared directly at his crotch area and then raised her eyes to meet his “I don’t think you’re a girl”-She took the money folded it and tucked it into her choli top. “You want it come and get it !” with that she sauntered off with the group of girls laughing.

“Oh I definitely will one day !” a comment only heard by Di who was now looking at Arnav dubiously in amazement. Was this her brother , the one who hated weddings ,had he just taken part in a joota churai , had he flirted with a girl in front of her, and was he oogling her behind as Khushi walked away with that comment to boot.

“Arnav Singh Raizada” and she slapped him playfully across the back of his head .

“What Di ?” Arnav rapidly thought to himself had he said the last comment out aloud – he thought he had

“She’s is a very good friend of mine – keep your thoughts to yourself!”

Anjali’s brain started ticking the cogs were turning faster and faster , Khushi had come that day , she was wearing a red sari ! She was the sari girl.

“Chote shall we go home?”

“Di the party just started give it a little while then we will leave”

Di thought to herself -will miracles never cease.

Arnav had only eyes for her he watched her dance and shake her booty ,her hips gyrated to the music never stopping till a really slow song came on -Teri Meri

Arnav saw her head off the dance floor and grabbed her hand and pulled her into him . He pulled her into a reverse turn bringing her up to meet him . Their breath mingled ,he inhaled her jasmine fragrance her lips parted in excitement while the latent flame of desire sparked into life between them. He then pushed her into a double outside spin followed by a cross body step . He continued to twirl and spin. When they finished they were the only two dancing on the floor and the room broke into thunderous applause.

Khushi was breathless , she wasn’t sure if it was from the dance or because of the exploding chemistry between her and…she didn’t know his name.

Arnav knew he had set the cat amongst the pigeons he had felt her heart beat and the flame of passion between them. There was something between them -he just couldn’t name it yet. People came up to her to congratulate her and him on the dance.

Di just watched speechless as her Chote came and sat down next to her.

“You .. I mean … that ..dance … you and Khushi …when did you learn to dance … and like that ?”

“Khushi -is that her name ?”

“What – you don’t know her name and you danced like that !”

“Weren’t we good?”

Khushi came up to Di not knowing what to say

Now for the Pice de rsistance Arnav thought .

” Coffee and ice cream tomorrow evening at 7.30 at the Taj coffee shop and I’m hanging onto the money flashing a couple of Rs1000 notes”

“Khushi looked perplexed and then it dawned on her the butterfly caress across her chest he had lifted the money from her choli”

Khushi gasped and her hand clasped her bosom in realization of exactly where his hand had been. Arnav came up to her and whisperd for her ears and her ears alone ” you said if you want it come and get it – well just to let you know I want a lot more and I’m going to get it !”

Khushi turned red .

Di had never seen Arnav like this – what had he said to the poor girl now .

“Till tomorrow – shall we Di”.

A Girl Like That

–Chapter 3

Arnav sat alone in the coffee shop drinking a coffee and working on his lap top.

He deleted what he had written again probably for the twentieth time. He looked at the display in the corner of his screen 8:15 pm. She was late .He had told her 7:30 clearly. He was Arnav Singh Raizada , when he said jump people not only jumped they asked how high . When he gave an order people followed. He sat there alone frustration increasing and patience decreasing.

8:25 He had given up pretending to work; he had just played the umpteenth game of solitaire and lost for the umpteenth time. His brain just refused to focus and all because of her.

8:32 He stood up to leave. He had enough of waiting. He didn’t want to believe that he had been left waiting. But there was still time maybe she could get here. He sat down again. What was etiquette? How long did one wait in a situation like this?

8:42 Maybe she had an accident? Maybe her car broke down? Maybe she had a flat? Did she drive? Did she even have a car? Maybe she was hurt? He should go check. But where?

8:55 She would come for her share of money. Had he given her the right address ? Was there another Taj Coffee Hut in Dehli.

9:20 Arnav pulled out his phone to call her -he didn’t have her number -damm-he could phone Di she would have it . He didn’t want her to know that he had been waiting all this time and that to for a girl.

9:33 He could think of a thousand reasons why she wasn’t coming , he might as well go home . At least he knew her name.

10:00 She definitely wasn’t coming . Not tonight. But his name was Arnav Singh Raizada -he would make her come -strike that – he would ask her to come -is that where he had gone wrong? Too many questions! Brain shut up stop thinking ! With that Arnav closed his laptop and left.

” Hi Chote,you’re late ,I expected you ages ago”

“Digging Di?”

“She is a really close friend ! and you are my …brother”

“Uha”

“You already know she didn’t come”

“mmm”

“Are you going to make me work for it”

Di laughed ” You are besotted with her – admit it- how long did you wait ?”

“Since 7:30”

“I have a lunch date with her tomorrow round one-ish , This is Khushi it’s gonna be more ish than the one -would you like to take my place ?”

“Let me think about ?”

“It’s a onetime offer don’t take to long or it’s of the table”

“Di , don’t use my negotiation tactics on me!”

“OK – Goodnight – I’ll be meeting Khushi for lunch”

Di turned and left. She was almost at her bedroom door ” Di I’ll take it”

Di shouted back laughing ” Hospital Canteen”

Unbelievable twice in a row – it was 1:55. Be fair Arnav thought to himself she didn’t know you were coming. She stood Di up-not you. Arnav was furious at having been stood up twice. He had to get back to a meeting . He pushed his chair back forcefully accidently into two girls carrying tea on a tray. The domino effect followed. The chair banged into her knee ,the tray went flying and the scalding hot liquid went down Arnav’s face and front.

“OMG -are you OK ?” her voice never changed . She always seem to state the obvious. She had a melodious voice His face was burning his chest was on fire and his breath caught. It wasn’t because she was standing so close to him. He was in pain , not excruciating ,oh boy but definitely pain so where did his jelly brain come up with the statement “I’m fine – are you ok?”

“I’ll be fine ,but you won’t come with me , Seema you’re alright , I’ll sort him out and come back to clinic as soon as. Follow me”

“I’m really really sorry”

“That’s Ok it doesn’t hurt” what the hell rubbish was coming out of his mouth -it hurt like hell , he felt as though his chest was on fire.

Khushi sat him in a cubical and in seconds had his shirt off him.

He watched her staring at his chest “You know you’re equally fast taking a shirt of as you are putting it on. Like what you see ?”

“Not really that scald is gonna be bad I need to cool it.”

She returned in 2 minutes with a tray full of things . She place icepacks on his chest.

“That’s freezing- you could have warned me”

“Shut up! you said it wasn’t hurting”

“I lied”

“You’re … You’re… impossible. Don’t remove that for twenty minutes ”

“You’re kidding – I’ll be frozen”

“That’s the general idea”

A while later Khushi dressed the area ” if it blisters let me know -but that should be OK . Were you meeting Di? I was running late.”

“What are — you doing ?” Arnav asked shocked .

Khushi had her hand on his ass. “Checking to see if your glutimas maximus matches your sixpack in hardness ”

“What ?- At least you noticed my six pack as well as my arse”

He watched and smiled she had his wallet and was rifling through it .

She fanned some notes in her hand ” I believe this is mine and I’ll take an extra Rs 1000 for the treatment you have received today ! Make sure your dressing is changed tomorrow … What is your name ?”

“Arnav”

“Did you wait for me at the coffee shop yesterday ?”

Arnav hesitated for a moment – truth or lies? Pride before a fall. Nothing ventured nothing gained .

“You didn’t come”

“Can I have you’re left hand – Arnav ”

He held his left hand out . Khushi pulled a sharpie from her pocket and wrote his palm SORRY and a number across his palm.

“I was on call yesterday working and I didn’t have your number- otherwise I would have warned you and I didn’t know you’re name. My shift finishes at 5:00 ish and you had my tea earlier ”

Arnav s hand rose involuntarily to his chest . ” I remember”

“Coffee and Ice cream ? My bleep! I’ve got a run – See you later ?”

“See you later !”

Arnav thought to himself as he picked up his jacket and smiled he never waited on anyone -the world waited on him; he had better get used to the ish.

 

Chapter 4

 

 

A Girl like that

Khushi was exhausted she had the week full of wedding functions interspersed with work. She Finished at the wedding and come straight on call and worked through lunch. At least she had finished early. She sat on the loungers having her early dinner or late lunch with her best friend Priti.

“Cancel this date and go to sleep”

“No I can’t stand him up twice , I’m showered changed I’ll be back in an hour sleep by 7,30 then I’ll sleep through the night”

Quickly putting her helmet on Khushi maneuvered her way through the traffic weaving in and out of the cars as only a true professional could driving in peak hour Dehli traffic could.

She still had five minutes to spare all she had to do was park her scootie and run in.

Scccrrratttch . Oh hellfire -Not today ,not now and she was almost on time . She had some how managed to scrape the whole side of the white SUV, the wing and the door.

She could hear the man swearing as he got out and slammed his door shut. He turned the corner ready to give the individual a piece of his mind couldn’t they see where they were going ?Any idiot could see there wasn’t enough space to park a scooti as well as SUV.

Both started together

“I’m really really sorr… Arnav ?”

“What the hell were you …Khushi!”

Arnav couldn’t believe his eyes – his pride and joy had been scraped by the girl he had been trying to meet for the last 6 weeks.

Khushi gulped why was she like a class A dope around him. twice in one day she had managed to cause him damage first she had burnt him and now ruined the paintwork on his car.

Arnav just shook his head “Unbelievable- of all the people it had to be you! Well you can’t place an ice pack on it or give it a tetanus shot – so what do you propose?”

Arnav’s anger at having had his car scraped had long fizzled out. But he was a businessman and wasn’t about to let an opportunity handed to him on a plate get away.

Khushi looked at the scrape “shall we discuss this over coffee and ice cream?” flashing him her 1000 watt smile which was renowned for getting her out of trouble. “Look I’m almost on time it’s only five past- and I think I’m due to meet someone at 5:00 if that date stills stand…

She looked adorable “The date stills stands, we are just going to introduce some business negotiations into our date”

Khushi looked up into Arnav’s eyes to find laughter mirrored there. Arnav gazed into Khushi’s eyes to find fear and apprehension being replaced by relief and laughter.

“So what are you proposing?”

“Put your car into the workshop and get it re-sprayed”

“How do I get to and from work and my meetings ?”

“Get a cab and I’ll pay for that too”

“How about you give me a lift to and from work and I ll postpone me meetings for one or two days”

“As long as I’m not on call and I am allowed the -ish in our timing schedule”

“I have to be at work by …”

“Where do you work and how long will it take me from there to here?”

“15 minutes”

“How long to your house from here?”

“30mins”

“You don’t ind travel ling on the back of a scootie?”

“OK -so you will pay for the repairs and give me a lift -dealt”

Arnav held out his hand “You gotta shake to make the sure the deal is complete”

Arnav and Khushi shook hands and then Arnav held her hand to his lips and planted a feather light warm kiss on the back of her hand.

“What’s that for?”

“Small print in our deal”

Khushi turned his hand and kissed his palm, a soft fleeting touch of warm velvet against his skin.

“What’s that for?”

“In case I need a get out clause”

Khushi and Arnav sat there chatting till the lights dimmed and Kaka said ” Saab it’s 11:00 and Khushi Bitia will be working in the morning at 8.00 she needs to go home”

“Sorry Kaka ,Goodnight , come on Arnav time to go”

“So exactly what time do you get to work ?”

“By 8:oo no ish -”

Khushi hadn’t heard from Arnav in two days till she got a text from him.

“Free tonight ?”

“Depends”

“8.00”

“More like 9:00 ish what you got planned ?”

“Chinese?”

“Bring take away can have it in the doctor’s staff room third floor room 401 anyone asks say your waiting for Dr Gupta”

“I like that -Dr Gupta”

Later that evening Khushi got a text “how much of the ish left I’m starving”

Khushi opened the door “Hi -not much of the -ish left- what you brought ?”

Khushi started unpacking their dinner box after box Arnav there are 24 boxes here who are you aiming to feed , more so how many are you aiming to feed – I think it’s party time ?”

Before he could say anything Khushi had sent out a flash text and all too soon his private dinner had turned into an impromptu party, everyone on a break or that was free turned up. People chatted and laughed some found an Ipod and music filled the room. Khushi ate and chatted to everyone danced with a few to be watched by a surely Arnav . What was with this girl – how hard was it to have a quiet peaceful dinner Khushi came up to him “Dinner was fantastic everyone thinks so and the party turned out great but I’ve been bleeped so gotta run have you got a date for your car?”

“Tomorrow come and pick me up”

“Goodnight” and she was gone . That was the longest conversation he had with her all night,he hadn’t even had a dance.

“Bye man -dinner was good – gotta do it again”

Arnav smiled and thought not likely -next time he would get one dish and they would share!

Khushi finished her shift changed she had not had much sleep but she had to pick him up bt from where?

Morning sleepy head need address to pick you up

Arnav texted her the address. Khushi looked confused at the address-that was Di’s address. What was he doing there? Did he live there? Her mind replayed the events of their first meeting she just couldn’t figure. He left with her but she had to pick him up from Di’s.

She was too tired to put any more effort into it ,she would ask that was easier .

She arrived by seven at Shantivaan “Namaste HP , I’m here to pick up Arnav ?”

Hp told her he was not down till 7:45 he might be having a shower or getting ready. Khushi told HP not to worry give her two cups one coffee and one tea she would take it up to his room.

Khushi entered his room with a discreet knock not gaining an answer, entered hearing the shower running. He had played her the time before so it was time for a bit of fun, purposely she sat on the chair facing the door to the shower.

Arnav was humming to himself finally some lone time with her. He would ask her to stay for breakfast at his office- even if he had to ride on a bloody scootie for it. Would he make it alive one of those contraptions. What state would his suit be in he had better make sure there was a spare at work he would text Aman to ensure that.

Towel wrapped around his waist he came into his bedroom to be left speechless.

“Hi there”

Arnav gulped nervously “What you doing here ?”

“Having tea , got yours take a seat won’t feel as if it was your home”

“What ?”

“Oh don’t worry about me, I have seen everything a man has to offer”

“Like I said feel as if you were at home, change or come and join me as you are”

“You’re early”

“I came straight after my shift I thought that I would give you a lift and then get some sleep- I got a couple of hours last night”

“You gonna stand in the doorway you might as well let me examine your chest”

Khushi looked at his chest the burn was not so bad it would heal without scarring. But her fingers lingered for longer going slowly southwards stopping at the towel.

Arnav held his breath as he felt her fingers touch his chest and as they made an investigative tour of his chest he felt as though he couldn’t breathe. The flame of want was stirring between them.

Arnav got up quickly grabbing his clothes and went into the shower to change- he thought about it and stepped into a freezing cold shower and then came out -was that all it took a few caresses and he was a lost cause.He changed and came out “Khushi -lets…”

She was fast asleep . Di called ” Chote HP said …” “Shhh”

Arnav pointed to the sleeping angel on his recliner “She came to pick me up after a night shift and fell asleep – I swear Di between her job and the number of accidents we keep having I’ll never get past first base- let alone ask her to marry me?”

“WHAT?” Pulling him out of his room, “what did you just say?”

“She came to pick..”

“Not that stupid! the other part”

“She’s been on a night shift…”

“Not that Arnav Singh Raizada! you are not to old that I can’t pull your ears what did you say about marriage”

He smiled “one minute” he went back and threw a cover over her and drew the curtains closed and shut the door .

Downstairs he said “Wake her up at about 12.00 and yes If i ever get to spend time with her while she is awake – she is the girl I would like to marry -she doesn’t know that yet.”

“Why is she here to give you a lift to work you have three cars”

“But she doesn’t know that”

“When she finds out you will be for the high jump !”

“I have a get out of jail free card”

“Arnav you don’t know Khushi she will make you pay and I will love watching it – this time the shoe is on the other foot she has your heart and she is gonna pull the strings – seriously she is a lovely girl and wears her heart on the outside. Don’t hurt her Chote”

“Trust me Di -she is already winning in that department she hurt me plenty. Let me give you the running total”

By the time Arnav had recounted last night’s dinner date Di was splitting her sides with laughter -you both really need some help.

 And Finally –

A Girl Like That – Final Part

“Happy ?”

“mmm – very -I need reminding though ”

“happy to oblige Dr Gupta” Arnav twisted her under him in one slick movement. Before he could claim her lips again “it’s Dr Raizada now”

“I like the sound of that – though it almost wasn’t.”

Then there was silence in the room just the sounds of rising passion between two lovers.

A long while later both spent ,tired exhausted Khushi lay there, her head on his chest her hand drawing out nonsensical patterns on his chest . Arnav fingers played with her hair.

“Arnav how long would you have waited ?”

“As long as it took you to get to me! I have been practising close onto a year now – I have got use to your ish now. I should count myself lucky I was only waiting about an hour”

Khushi smiled and remembered – she gently looked up and laid a gentle kiss on his throat.

She had had a call in the morning – a heart was on the way theatre was being prepped Pritihad to come. The chance had come, who was Khushi to stop her niece getting a new heart. Some child had died and left the most precious thing behind ,someone’s despair , lost dreams and grasp of life had becomes the most precious gift to another – a second chance to live her dreams. Wedding mandip Arnav he would wait ,they would have a second chance but for Pritti this was her only chance.

Khushi jumped up picked her phone grabbed Payal and Pritti all of them part dressed for Khushi’s weding later on in the day.

“Payal ,Pri lets go! a heart is on the way ”

“Khushi now ? b…b..but yyyour getting married today ”

“I can rearrange that Arnav will understand”

“NO, massi i if I get a new heart today you get a new husband -deal – I’m not going anywhere-unless you promise!”

“Promise and until your surgery is over I will stay with you”

Khushi stayed at her niece’s side throughout the surgery -one of the hardest things she had to do.

She hadn’t realised that until the little green dot jump into life she had been holding her breath.

She hung around icu until she was happy that her nieces condition was sable.

She had a promise to keep, to her niece and to the man she loved.

“I’ll be back soon baby”

“Hi Arnav”

“How are things ”

“As well as can be expected- I have a promise to keep -still want to get married ?”

“We are only running four hours late but the family are here guests have gone home.”

“Get the fire ready – i have a window and i am on the way”

Arnav had eyes only for her.Her almond green eyes held him incapacitated stuggling for breath.

“Khushi Ji what have you got on ? and it doesn’t surprise me . Hospital surgical scrubs and you arrived in a screeching ambulance ”

“It was the quickest way of getting here and getting back. My wedding lengha is at home you’ve got me as I am ”

“I ll take you as you are” Arnav was just grateful she was here. It was the two of them that counted not what they were wearing that counted and the promises they would make to each other.

Hospital Staff had converted one of the unused doctor’s sleeping rooms into a honeymoon suite.

Their wedding night had taken place in a hospital.

With Khushi life was going to be full of surprises-unorthodox-they had definitely broken the mould when the made her. But she was his.

 

X—————————————————-X

 

 

” NOTHING ! ARNAV! THIS IS YOUR FAULT!”

“WHAT? HOW?” calm Arnav told himself -calm yourself-remember soon the hormonal monster would be gone -his Khushi would be back. “Sorry honey – what is my fault?”

“You haven’t tried hard enough!”

“Did you enjoy yourself ?”

“Yes -but that’s not the point I’m just over 42 weeks -this baby needs OUT NOW!”

“Khushi – you’re going to have to be induced-give in now- not that I’m complaining I have the most fun these last three days – do you realise we’ve made love more times in these last three days than ever before – everytime I turn round you literally jump me – I’m not complaining -I’m loving it! I’m not quite sure how I should be feeling – used , a sex toy whatever. I love you, Dr Raizada but you have to give in now. You have tried everything to bring this baby out but the -ish gene is very strong. This child is going to be late for everything. Khushi you tried walking -running that was hilarious -ever seen a hippo run – oww! Ok sorry i deserved that ! You’re beautiful Khushi-really. You eaten pineapple ,spicy food , we had more sex in these last three days than I can ever remember and I have loved every second of that – I have played with those” . Arnav was still paying with her breasts .

“Now Khushi – we will have a bath together and then I will give Sheena a ring and say we are coming in – there is a lazy baby that is just way too comfortable where he or she is but it’s time too meet me properly and the rest of the family. OK”

Arnav looked down at her with tender loving eyes, her eyes were brimming with tears .” Khushi you know it’s the right decision.”

 

“I know- Arnav just so you know – you are the perfect sex toy !” her eyes were laughing. ” I’m sorry I have been so …so…all over the place ”

“Ssshhh- I enjoyed being the sex toy -trust me .” his eyes were laughing back at her. “But sweetheart ,natures had her chance now it s time for science ” He got out of bed and gently helped her out of bed “Shower first”

A long leisurely hot shower took place with Arnav soaping and massaging every inch of her body.

“When did you get gem’s put on your toe’s?”

“What?- I can’t even see my toes”

“I’ll take a picture later and show you”

Arnav wrapped his love in a large towel and carried her back to the bedroom.

“Hi Sheena -we are coming in this baby thinks it’s taking an extended vacation in my wife -time to introduce it properly to its parents.”

“Arnav”

“Sheena what time do you suggest?”

“Arnav ” Arnav signalled to her to wait a seond

“Sorry Sheena I did’t here that”

“ARNAV !”

“What ? I’m just trying to sort out the time -enough is enough you have have gone over and I have let you have it your way so far – but now I don’t think it’s safe for you – so Dr or not you are Mrs Raizada – you are my love and life and you always said you would take care of my love and my life -so just shut up Khushi and do as everyone is telling you -no more chances – you are going in today and that baby is coming out !”

“Have you quite finished ? LOOK”

“What?”

Khushi stood wrapped in a large towel in a pool of water smiling .

“Don’t worry I’ll get a towel – just be careful you don’t slip! Sorry Sheen – what time ? About 1.00 OK see you soon- Bye”

“Ok Khushi you have 5 hours to rest them I am taking you to the hospital and meeting Sheena and then whatever she says goes -no arguments , discussion -understand”

Khushi cane up to him smiling” for an intelligent businessman of the year sometimes you really are a duffer ! But you are my duffer and i love you and I wouldn’t change you for all the diamonds in the world . Please get me a large drink of ice water and sort your work out and then whenever we will go.”

“Finally the light bulb has come on in your head jaan”

“I wonder when yours will !”

Khushi dressed herself tossing and turning ,rubbing her stomach and back as time progressed . Arnav noticed the restlessness and tossing and the few sharp intakes of breath.

“Khushi don’t worry”

“Arnav have you finished your work?”

“I can leave it”

“Anything urgent -?”

“No”

“OK get the car lets go to the hospital now”

“Darling it’s only 12:00 and the journey takes 15 mins we will be waiting on Sheena for the best part of an hour”

“Arnav – not that i mean to worry you but that puddle earlier – that was my water’s breaking and in the last half hour the contractions are coming ever 8 mins- I need -no this baby needs -no we all need to get to the hospital”

Arnav face was expressionless -deadpan . He stood as still as a statue.

Oh devi Maya don’t tell me I have got one of those husband s who is completely useless in childbirth.

“ARNAV ,ARE YOU LISTENING -COME BACK TO ME !”

Arnav sprang into action – scooped her up keys in hand and strode out of their room .

Di and Nani saw Arnav coming down the stairs “PAYAL , PAYAL ”

“What’s happened ? everything OK ?”

” This baby has decided that it’s time to meet all of us. Di, I’m taking Payal with me ,you bring everything else -see you – and they were gone”

Alina Singh Raizada announced her arrival to the world screaming , 45mins later. A mop of thick black hair and hazel eyes screamed at her dad.

“She’s late , she screams , she eats and then without so much of a thankyou she sleeps! She’s got everything from you Khushi ! She’s beautiful ! I didn’t know that I could get any happier – look she’s holding my finger and smiling at me”

“Arnav newborns don’t smile they…” She stopped and smiled who was she to spoil his moment. She loved them both whole heartedly they were her world.