Chapter 41

Guys!! I am sooo sorry....I had updated this on IF ages ago but completely forgot to update here!! Will try and update the next part soon!! Thanks for the lovely comments...really appreciate it! xoxo

Khushi rubbed her palms against her eyes as she yawned while stretching her body...she opened her eyes and grinned at the bright sunlight filtering in through the open curtains...turning around she took in Arnav's sleeping profile as she shifted towards him and placed a quick kiss on his cheek..she saw him wrinkle his nose as her open hair tickled him making her hold in a laugh

She quickly got up and searched around for something to wear when Arnav's large white shirt caught her attention...donning it, she made a quick trip to the bathroom to wash her face and brush before slowly tip toeing out of his room, making sure she doesn't disturb him...today she wanted to surprise him further by cooking them breakfast

She hummed a soft tune as she walked into the kitchen and put on the coffeemaker before measuring some water and milk for her early morning tea...she pulled out some bread, eggs and bacon from the well stocked fridge and cupboards before getting ready to chop some veggies and cheese for the frittata she was planning on making...after a few more minutes of chopping and beating eggs, she got the pan hot enough to pour the delicious mix in before switching on the grill for the bacon

She sighed in contentment as she saw to the food, giving her some time to strain her tea concoction before settling on the kitchen counter as she sipped on her morning doze of life...her ears pricked as she heard a faint click making her aware that Arnav must be coming down...she giggled as she kept her cup on the counter before crossing her legs and mussing up her gorgeous hair for a sexy welcome to her boyfriend

She bit her lips as the footsteps came closer making her wonder how quick he had walked down...rolling her eyes she made herself ready to greet Arnav when she heard a new voice with the approaching footsteps "Wow! Something in here smells delish! Is that Bacon?" the man said as he came inside with a silly grin, only to stand stock-still with his mouth hanging open at the sight of the beautiful woman in front of him

"Aaahhh!" Khushi screamed as she literally slipped off the counter and got hold of the first knife that lay nearby, the same one she was using to chop up the vegetables "Who are you! And How the hell did you come in? Arnaaavv...Arnaaav" she screamed as the man took more than a second to realize that the woman was holding a huge knife and screaming Arnav's name

"Whoa! Hold on...Khushi...I mean, Miss Gupta...I...Its...me" he said as she stopped screaming when Arnav's voice came booming behind them "Khushi?? What happened...where are you!" he screamed as he practically ran down the stairs in nothing but his boxers to find a sight he would never really forget in his life "Akash?' he said as he looked on bewildered at his brother who seemed to be frighted out of his wits standing glued to the wall as Khushi with her wild hair and big eyes implored him with a chopping knife

"Akash?" Khushi said a second later as realization hit her... "Oh...Akash!...your brother? Damn!" she said as Arnav started laughing while Akash got his breathing to normal...this is how it felt to see a woman transform from an Angel into a demon, he thought as Khushi finally stepped back embarrassed and kept the knife down...she looked on helplessly at Arnav who could not seem to stop laughing

"Oh God! This is probably the funniest sight I have ever seen..." Arnav said as he finally noticed what Khushi was wearing...he quickly glanced at his brother who seemed to have calmed down a bit and was now nervously looking everywhere but at her...Arnav thinned his lips as he quickly went and grabbed khushi's wrist before pulling her out of the kitchen and towards the bedroom upstairs

"Akash...we'll be down in a minute" he shouted as Akash mutely nodded before pouring himself a glass of cold water...Khushi frowned at Arnav at his caveman behavior as he closed the door behind them after reaching the room "Arnav! Why did you have to drag me all the way here? I'm sorry I attacked your brother that way...but I was genuinely surprised and a bit scared...plus you both don't look anything alike...and now that I think of it, your brother looks very familiar..." she said as Arnav sighed and pulled her by her shoulders

"Khushi! It's ok...you didn't know...and that moron had to find today of all days to visit me here!" he said as Khushi looked on with her eyebrows drawn together "Okey...then why did you bring me here? We were not even properly introduced" she said frowning as Arnav pulled her closer to him and ran his hands down her body to rest them on her perfect bottom

"Khushi...do you realize what you are wearing? I could practically see your entire body illuminated in the sunshine...thanks to my white shirt...do you really think I could keep you down there in such a state, let alone introduce you to Akash?" he asked her as she blushed...she looked down at the loose shirt which did cover her till her knees, but was also pretty translucent...she smiled sheepishly as she wound her arms around Arnav before lightly pecking his lips

"Sorry Mr Raizada...this was exclusively for you...now if you don't mind, I need to change into something more presentable to go down and officially meet your brother" she said as she pushed him away only for him to pick her up in his arms and into the bathroom "well, in that case lets not waste time" he said before shutting the door amongst khushi's squeals

...

"Akash?" Arnav called out nearly half an hour later as both he and Khushi walked down, freshly showered and slightly out of breath...they found Akash setting up the table with the food that Khushi was preparing earlier "Oh No! The breakfast!" she said as Akash cleared his voice "Uh...I took care of it...don't worry" he said as Khushi looked at the slightly overcooked frittata and crispy bacon...the bread was freshly toasted with jam, butter and other preserves on the table

"Thanks" khushi said in gratitude with a small awkward smile as Akash smiled back and looked down...Arnav grinned at the two embarrassed souls before once again laughing out "Relax you two! These things happen...and trust me Khushi, one day not so far in the future you might just want to chop off Akash's 'Ahem' for something he will do or say...or simply just cause you want to! That's how annoying he can be!" Arnav said as Khushi giggled while Akash looked on horrified

"Kya bhai! That is not how I wanted to be introduced to your girlfriend!" he said before stepping in front of Arnav and holding out his hand, the earlier awkwardness and fear completely forgotten as his real persona took over "Hi! I'm Akash raizada...the one and only loving , smart, handsome and dashing brother of your boy-friend..." he said with a cheeky smile as Khushi returned his handshake and smiled "Very nice to meet you Akash...i'm Khushi" she said as Akash rolled his eyes "Who doesn't know you Khushi!" he said as Arnav glared at him "Sorry...Khushiji" he said as Khushi burst into a fit of laughter

"Oh my God! I don't know anyone who calls me that...Khushi is just fine Akash..." she said as Akash gave arnav a triumphant smile "Anyways, lets eat, both of you...I am starving!" Arnav said as all three sat down "Wow Khushi...this looks amazing...Thank you!" Arnav said as he lightly kissed Khushi on her forehead making her blush while Akash made a gagging sound

"Please don't tell me you will be both groping each other at every opportunity!...I don't think my innocent eyes can take it!" Akash said dramatically as Arnav looked at Khushi with an 'I told you so' expression... "Don't worry Akash...we'll try and keep it private...I don't think anyone is fond of other's PDA..." she said as she thought of the recent display she had seen of payal with that guy outside her house... "Great!" Akash said as Khushi's brain suddenly did a 180 degree rotation...the guy with payal...that is why he looked so familiar! Akash raizada was dating Payal Dinkaran!

"Khushi? What happened? You just kinda zoned off! " Arnav said as Akash too looked up from his food "Hey...I was just kidding Khushi...you both are free to do whatever you like, wherever you like...as long as its not anywhere near my Playstation and the..." he kept on blabbering as Arnav glared at him once again "Sorry..." he said as Khushi came out of her thoughts

"Nothing, I'm fine...was just thinking of something" she said as both Arnav and Akash went back to eating...she observed Akash and wondered if she should just ask him, because she was 100% sure that it was him with Payal the other day...but maybe he did not want his family to know...yet... "So Akash! When do you finish Uni? And you'll probably be joining R&S once you graduate" she asked him conversationally as he shrugged his shoulders "Just a year or so left now...i'm already interning at R&S...so its all cool...I love my job! It pays for my wild ways!" he said as Arnav rolled his eyes

"Thats nice...I too interned in GM before finishing my degree and joining in...its always better like that" she said as she tried to bring out the topic she was dying to ask "So, any girlfriend?" she asked him cautiously only for him to squirm a bit in his chair before chuckling loudly "Oh...there are too many!...i'm too much of a stud!" he said with a smirk as Arnav hit him on his head "Ow!" he complained as Arnav looked at Khushi "Only a fool will ever date him! God bless the woman who does!" he said as Khushi grinned...she had the perfect plan to bring the lovebirds face to face! Payal had enough fun at her expense...Now it was Khushi's turn!

...

and I set fire...to the rain...' Khushi sang as she pulled into the driveway of her house in her happy mood...she had a real fun time with Akash as he told her all about his and Arnav's childhood, much to Arnav's annoyance...she smiled as she parked her car and got out in front of the main door

She still had her smile intact as she stepped in, only to stop in her path as her grandmother approached her with a stern expression on her face...before Khushi could say anything, she came ahead and pulled her grand-daughter by her hand bringing her into the living room with a strength that surprised even Khushi

"Nani...when did you come...and..." Khushi started when she looked at her with stern eyes "Not one word Khushi" she said as Khushi looked on mutely while Shalini gestured Laxamma to get everyone out...once the living room was completely empty and quite, khushi once again asked in a slightly worried voice...she had never seen her grandmother this angry "Nani...what is the matter? Is everything alright?..." she asked, only to stop as Shalini held her hand up

"You think you are too smart Khushi? You think I won't know? How can you keep such a big secret from me? Does Garima know?" Shalini asked as Khushi finally realized what she was talking about...Arnav's grandfather must have said something to her about her and Arnav's relationship...she should have told Arnav to ask them not say anything to her family.

She sighed as her nani's hands fell loosely away from holding her wrist...she looked up guiltily and went closer to her nani as she spoke in a controlled but soft voice "I am sorry Nani...I did not want you to know about us this way...In fact I was going to tell you and mamma today itself...but I guess Arnav's grandfather told you already" she said only to have her nani look at her in confusion

"What are you talking about Khushi?" Shalini asked Khushi who looked at her with a slight frown "Arnav's grandfather...He told you right?" she asked as Shalini now completely turned towards her "What has Raizada sahab got to do with this? Wait! He knew about it too? And you didn't tell your own family!" she said as Khushi nodded "We didn't tell him...but he and Arnav's bua figured it out...we decided just two days back that we'll tell everyone about us" she said as Shalini held her by her shoulders

"Tell us what?" she asked as Khushi bit her lip "About us, me and Arnav nani...I swear I was going to tell you both today!" she said trying to convince her grandmother when the older lady looked at more more bewildered than before "You and Arnav? What about you and Arnav? What's going on?" she asked only for Khushi to sigh in exasperation...her grandmother will not make this easy for her

"Nani...ab bas bhi karo [Pls stop now]...Since you already know everything...Arnav and I are seeing each other...since a while now...and yes, I know I should have told you guys this but with all this investigation and other stuff, it just did not seem right" she said, looking up...hoping that her grandmother will let it go with her blessing when instead she found her eyes go huge like saucers

"You and Arnav? Wh...what? I...when did you?" she said as Khushi felt a sudden lurch in her heart...was her grandmother not referring to her and Arnav? "Nani...that's what you asked me right? Someone must have told you...Arnav did say we were pretty obvious" she said when Shalini looked on in amusement

"Khushi...I was not talking about you and Arnav...this is news to me! A greatly satisfying one too!" she said as a big smile broke out on her face, making khushi slightly relax before another new confusion reflected on her beautiful visage "I was talking about the accident...of your car...and other things that have been going around which has involved the special officer as well...what is going on? Is someone threatening you?" she asked as the earlier smiling face was now tensed.

"Nani...woh" Khushi started saying when another voice spoke loudly "Threat? What is going on here? Ma? What are you saying?" Garima said as she stood in the doorway with various bags in her hands...both Khushi and Shalini looked at her worried state as she dropped the bags and came towards khushi, cupping her face in her hands as her restless, concerned eyes roamed over her... "What's wrong babu?" she asked as Khushi sighed and looked at her grandmother who she knew she could handle...but Garima gupta was another story!

"Garima...calm down...lets all sit down and wait till Khushi explains everything to us" she said as all three went towards the seating area and sat down...Shalini was the first to speak as Garima looked on anxiously while Khushi looked on with a slight guilt hinting in her eyes "So Khushi...would you like to tell us what is happening? From what I know, there have been a series of mis-haps and threats around you" she said as Garima gripped Khushi's hands tightly

"No nani...its nothing like that" she said looking at her nani before glancing at her anxious mother "Mamma...please don't think too much into this...its just some psycho who takes pleasure in scaring me...I was not and will not be hurt in anyways...and No, there is no threat...everything is just fine" Khushi said trying to make herself sound calm and composed...while internally she was dreading how both these women in her family will react if she tells them the nature of how things actually were

"So, you mean to say that the break-fail and other threatening messages you got, were all nothing?" Shalini asked as Garima gasped "Accident? Which accident...Khushi, what is ma talking about?" Garima asked as her voice came out with a tremble, making khushi feel more guilty "Nani, please...the police and Avinash are handling everything...i agree things were a bit difficult earlier but now its all getting sorted...the person responsible will be caught soon...I am absolutely fine!" Khushi said as Shalini looked on with the same concern and anger while Garima's eyes looked more confused and worried

"What messages did you get Khushi? Is this anything to do with Arun's murder?" Garima asked as Khushi sighed...there was no use keeping it away form them...knowing her grandmother, if she had so much information already, she probably knew what and how, things have happened "Yes mamma...this is to do with Mr Mehra's murder..." she said as Shalini looked at her sharply while Garima;s eyes turned huge in surprise

Khushi thought it was best to let them know about the events before they come to know from someone outside...so she narrated all the incidents that had happened since the day she got that parcel...she also told them about Arnav's involvement and how he got his friend's alliance with the investigation for the murder and the new threats...she also assured them that things were being worked out and that who ever it was will be caught soon

After nearly half an hour of taking in all that Khushi had to tell them, both Salini and Garima felt too heavy in their chest...they could not believe that their baby girl had gone through so much without letting them know anything "Khushi, I think for your own protection, you should stay and work from home...that would be for the best" Shalini said as Garima agreed "Absolutely...till they find the murderer, its best you do not step out..." she said as Khushi got up and stood with her hands on her hips

"I knew this will happen! Please don't do this, both of you! I am fine...and Arnav was with me and is with me...there is nothing to worry" she said as Shalini's face relaxed "Speaking of Arnav, when are you planning on telling you mother about him? She asked her as Khushi blushed furiously...it was bad enough that she blurted out her relationship with Arnav to her grandmother...bringing it up in front of her mother will be worse

She looked at Garima who looked suddenly very alarmed..."Umm...mamma...Arnav and I have been seeing each other...since a while now..." she said as Garima's tense face broke in a smile "I know babu...I was waiting for you to tell me yourself...Shashi and I saw you both that day at the engagement" she said as Shalini sharply turned towards her daughter "Shashi? What were you and Shashi doing tailing Khushi?" Shalini asked with interest as Garima suddenly went red and fumbled

Khushi looked on in embarrassment as she wondered how long her mother had known about them...but had not said anything...so, they were pretty obvious as Arnav's bua had rightly said...she looked at her mother fumbling for words as her nani questioned her about Shashi "Uh...Nani...if you don't mind, mamma and I have a lot to talk about...we also need to discuss about the wedding...why don't you rest for a while..." she said as Shalini nodded her head

"Yes, I think i really need some sleep after all the shocks i received today...Khushi, we will talk later, on many things that need to be sorted out..." she said as she got up and left, leaving Khushi and Garima alone in the living room "Alright mamma...I saved you this time, but you need to tell nani about you and Mr Dinkaran...and did you really know about me and Arnav all this while?" she asked as Garima giggled "Yes, I did...and I will tell your nani everything...but not today...she has had too much to deal with in one day..." she said as Khushi nodded...all her secrets were out now...it was time.

Chapter 40

Monica turned away from the window as the door opened....she smiled and went to the bar to fix a drink for herself and her visitor “Scotch on the rocks?” she asked the man as he shrugged out of his suit coat and flung it over the large leather couch...he loosened his tie and walked towards her as she held out the glass for him

“I think I need something harder than this” he said as he knocked the glass from her hand making it bounce off the lush carpet before roughly pulling her to him...he bit her lips as she gasped at the sudden attack but relaxed into him right away as if she was used to it...she let him bite and squeeze her as he took out all his frustrations...she whimpered as he tore away her clothes before pushed her onto the couch as he started divesting himself off the rest of his clothes

As she lay down staring at him, partly in fear and partly with desire, he eyed her angrily as his reddened eyes bore into hers, but before he could continue with his ruthlessness, his phone rang making him look at it in frustration before checking the caller...he immediately picked it up as spoke gruffly into it “Speak!” before settling himself into the large armchair

He nodded and grunted a couple of times as Monica got up and went to sit by him on the arm rest...she draped herself over him as he continued to listen to the man on the other side when suddenly he jerked up from the chair, making her nearly topple down “What..” she said as he laid his angry eyes on her before saying a quick few words to the person on the other end

“You are being trailed...in fact since a couple of days now” he said without any preamble to which monica's eyes widened “What? But you said you took care of it...and that now, they were only keeping a watch...” she said as she got up and tried to wear her tattered clothes “I said I will take care that they don't get anyone on you...I did not know that that A*****e cop had kept a team who has been following you since the past two days!” he said as he ran a hand though his hair

“Thank God we haven't met since that day....and today too we both have reasons to come to this hotel...you are meeting your friends for your card party while I am having a potential client meet...but this...this cannot continue now...we cannot meet anymore...” he said as Monica pouted “Don't say that darling...we are in this together isn't it! And you said it yourself...no one can point a finger at us for Arun's murder since we didn't do it!” she said as he chuckled at her

“Oh Im not worried about Arun Mehra's murder you fool!...and you know that! Its that princess Gupta that i'm worried about...I thought playing with her vulnerabilities will weaken her...but nothing is working out...plus that Raizada seems to be stuck to her like glue! And now with that blasted cop being involved...I think we should lay low for a bit...kind of strike when the heat is off...it will be very unexpected” he said as his face finally relaxed

“Hmm...you are right...let them enjoy some good time...after all there is a wedding in the family...” she said as the man nodded and called someone “Bury the plan for now...i'll let you know the next step in a few days...for now, lay low” he said before cutting the call and looking at Monica again....his eyes darkened as she divested herself of the shreds she was covering herself with before walking boldly towards him “Guess we gotta make up for the next few days” she said as he twisted his mouth cynically, waiting for the right time to strike....waiting.

....................................................

“Come on Khushi...you promised me!” Arnav said as his face twisted in annoyance...ever since yesterday when they had confessed their love for each other, Khushi had more or less disappeared...true she had a lot of work at home due to the upcoming wedding, but he was really hoping to spend some time with her after what had occurred between them...they had decided to take things as they come, starting with letting their families know about them

“Arnav! Please try and understand...I know I promised i'll come over for the weekend...but since nani is still not back and mom is staying over at maasi's, there is tons of work left for me to do here...I have to personally go over every invitation and the gifts that are going along with it to the guests....you don't know how much tamasha some people do if their name's are spelled incorrectly” she said as arnav sighed

“Fine...I had some plans for us but guess I'll cancel it...you go and do whatever you think is soo damn important!” he said as Khushi tried to pacify him “Arnav...please...i'm sorry baby” she said sweetly to which he smiled and leaned back against the main door of his house as he continued to talk to her, much to the amusement of the guard who strictly kept trying to look alert while his ears seemed to be positioned to what was being said

“Its ok Khushi...I understand, if you need any help, let me know ok...i'll be at the penthouse all weekend since i'm working tomorrow as well” he said as she said a soft “Hmm....don't overwork yourself Arnav...I'll try and come to see you tomorrow ok” she said as his lips curved slightly more at the prospect of finally seeing her after more than 36 hours!

He said a quick good night as she blew him kisses making him chuckle...he walked into the foyer to find his bua waiting for him with an overtly sweet smile on her face “Aa gaye Arnav beta [You have come Arnav?]” she said as Arnav raised his eyebrows...he had come home to specifically tell his family about Khushi but was a bit worried after seeing his bua's welcome

“Hi...paddu bua....” he said warily as she came and hooked her hand around his arms before leading him towards the living area “Arre...why are do you look so nervous? I guess Papa told you about that darling girl...the one who we want you to marry” she said with a sweet smile as Arnav loosened his arms from her grip “Bua...about that...I can't marry that girl” he said as his bua looked on puzzled

“What? But why? You won't marry her or you won't marry any girl?” she asked him as he shook his head “No...I won't marry the girl you are talking about...I...where is dadaji?” he asked her as his grandfathers voice came from the large staircase landing “I am here beta...and what is this non-sense of you not marrying? How can you so blatantly say no!” he said with his eyes narrowed angrily as Arnav looked at him

“Dadaji...please understand...I...I like someone else....we have not spoken of marriage but if I ever do get married, it will be her only...” he said as his grandfather looked at his bua before shaking his head “Oh well...I suppose I can't force you for anything...guess we won't call the Gupta's then” he said remorsefully before adding another sentence “Who is this girl that you like then?” Yudhisthir raizada asked as Arnav took a few seconds to understand what his grandfather had just said

“Wait...did you say Gupta's?” Arnav asked him as he nodded his head sadly “Yes...I hoped Khushi would be my bahu...” he started saying when Arnav interrupted him “What? How...you were talking about some other girl yesterday...” he said as his bua walked up to him and turned him around “Haan...toh? Now we want khushi as your wife...but you obviously don't! So let it go...you tell us who this girl is that you like” she said perplexing arnav more

“But bua...its...the girl i'm talking about...” Arnav said as his grandfather came and patted him hard on his back before completing his sentence “is Khushi!” he said as Arnav once again looked on confused between the two people who seemed to be giving him smug looks “How...what is going on here!” he said as paddu bua started laughing uncontrollably

“We got you bacchu! Gosh...I would have burst a vein now if you'd still not confessed to us about you and Khushi!” she said to Arnav who still stood bewildered “You knew?” he asked both of them as they both nodded before bursting back into peals of laughter “Off course we knew! At least I knew...or you can say came across the truth and figured it out...that day at the Gupta Mansion?...during the engagement party?” she said as Arnav looked at his grandfather for his reaction

“What are you looking at me for? She told me this only two days ago...and I could not wait to play thins game on you...I know you Arnav, and I also know a bit about Khushi...both of you are too stubborn for your own good...I guess you both needed a push from our side...and here you are...ready to spill it all!” he said as he sweeped a hand in front of Arnav making him nod and smile

“Before you go into a frenzy about how I knew...let me tell you that I saw you that day when you came for the party...I saw you looking at Khushi before running behind her...then you both came down half an hour later...looking all....” she said as Arnav widened his eyes at her gesturing to his grandfather as his bua shut up... “So, yeah....I observed you for a few days and also confirmed with Akash that you looked lost and were smiling too much...so, it was pretty easy to figure it all out!” she said as arnav shook his head and looked at his grandfather

“Sorry dadaji...I wanted to tell you earlier...but with Khushi's father's murder investigation and all...she wanted to keep us under wraps...” he said as his bua whispered in his ears “Literally!” she said as arnav suddenly felt himself color up...seriously! “Its ok Arnav....I knew you both had your reasons...i'm just glad, that this time you chose the right person” he said as Arnav hugged his grandfather who held him tight

“And don't worry...we won't pester you for marriage and all that...take you time! You are both mature and i'm sure have an understanding about your relationship...but I would like to say that Khushi is very dear to me...and I will not tolerate anything against her...you included...so don't you dare hurt her! And please don't delay bringing her in his house for too long..i'm dying to see my grandchildren..” he started saying as Paddu bua intervened

“Haan papa...now let the poor boy go...i'm sure he has a lot of other 'important' things to do!” she giggled as she led her father away...Arnav smiled contentedly as he saw them bicker about his wedding and dating...now there was only Akash to tell...speaking of which, where the hell was he now-a-days...was it true what Khushi had said? Was he serious about someone?

................................................

“God Akash....what's with the reaction?” Arnav asked his brother on the phone as his hyper excited voice made him cringe “Seriously bhai! You are asking me that! I mean...I just came to know that you are dating The Khushi Hot Gupta and you expect me to act all normal...!” he shouted as Arnav held the phone away from his ears

“Akash...akash...listen, how about we talk about this tomorrow huh? You can come over to the penthouse...Plus I need to talk to you about something else too” Arnav said as he stepped into the lift at R&S, partly glad that his signal was going for a toss...he really could not take any more of Akash's hysterics....Drama queen!

“Bhai...h...h....ok....c...can't....hear....hel....” Arnav heard as his voice cut off effectively making him end his call...he quickly typed up a message informing him that they'll catch up tomorrow before sliding his phone back into his suit pocket...he got out of the elevator and opened the door to his apartment as he switched on the lights in the living room

He looked around to find the place eerily silent, knowing that the help must have left a while ago after the routine cleaning and stocking...he checked his watch which read 11:30pm before he swiftly made his way up to his room...he stopped by his study to pick up some work files that he needed to go over

He switched on the landing lights as he passed the corridor which led towards his room...he entered his room and was beyond surprised to find nearly melted candles lit inside small dainty holders that were strewn all across the room....he left the files on the side table before squinting his eyes to find someone sprawled across the black egyptian cotton sheets on his bed 

He was amazed and beyond comprehension as he gazed at her sparsely clad body resting peacefully, her face shining under the moon light coming through the open curtains while the soft glow of the candles made the sheer peach negligee she wore glow amongst the black sheets... “Khushi....” he breathed as if in a daze as her perfect body lay invitingly in front of him as if in a dream

He felt his breath hitch as he slowly pulled off his tie and coat while taking off his shoes...it had been too long since the last time they had been together intimately and the sight of her lying in front of him was testing his patience to an extreme...he knew she must have planned a surprise for him, but had probably fallen asleep waiting for him...silly girl, he thought as the blood pounded in his veins looking at the feast in front of him

He quickly made his way to the bed and crawled in towards her before bending down to her face...her even breathing spoke of the deep sleep she was in and even though he was this close to waking her up just so he could lose himself in her, he controlled himself and kissed her gently on her forehead...her soft hair ticking his nose as his nostrils filled with her unique scent

He sighed as he got off the bed and decided to have a quick shower before joining her in bed...the least he could do right now was cuddle into her, though he highly doubted he would get any sleep tonight...especially with her sleeping next to him with that excuse of a nightwear she was wearing [see below]...taking a last look at her sleeping facade he made his way to the bathroom

After a refreshing shower which kind of tamed down his surging need for Khushi, he wore his pajama bottoms to keep a decent barrier between their bodies as he prepared to sleep next to her....he ran an absent hand through his hair to tame down the damp hair before switching off the lights and stepping out...he felt her before he even glanced at the now empty bed as khushi quickly hugged him from the back as he stepped out

He felt his just tamed body go out of control again as her soft hands massaged his chest while she lay featherlight kisses across his back..... “Khushi....” he sighed in contentment and raw need as she giggled and peppered small bites over his freshly washed back.... “Arnav....” she mumbled as he pulled her hands away from his chest before making her face him

He gazed at her naturally flushed face as their eyes travelled over each others visage, reading the love reflecting in their eyes along with a much baser need of just being with each other as the craving for much more clouded all coherent thoughts...before Arnav could even align his face to hers, he felt khushi's arms pulling him closer by his neck as she slammed her lips against his before biting his bottom lips between hers, making him groan loudly

He slid his hands along her arms to her hips as he pulled her closer to his body, deepening their kiss as he tasted her sweet nectar...his tongue danced with hers as khushi held onto him tighter by wrapping one of her long legs around his powerful thighs, bringing both their aroused parts together, making them jerk at the heated contact

Arnav traveled his hands over her buttocks as he squeezed them while lifting her from the floor...he cradled her body as their mouths continued to feed off each other occasionally parting to get in a much needed breath, but the hunger they felt growing for each other hardly let them stay away for long as their lips and tongues met again and again for a more fiercer, more passionate interlude

As they made their way over to the warm bed, Arnav lifted one knee over the edge of it before gently laying khushi down on it...she looked mesmerizing in the soft glow the candles threw over her gorgeous face as her lips red and swollen pouted at the loss of contact...she giggled as she pulled him over her by his pajama strings as she felt his aroused member twitch under the cotton

“Here I was supposed to surprise you...when I was surprised my self” she said in a soft voice as arnav leaned over her while her hands pulled the knot at his hips...he quickly held her hand and shook his head asking her to stop if she wanted him to last longer when she smiled mysteriously and leaned in towards his ears “I want to try something new” she said as arnav raised his eyebrows while she trailed her hands inside his pajamas and found his throbbing arousal

“Khushi...” he hissed as pure pleasure rocked through his body at her gentle touch....she pushed herself up as Arnav allowed her to pull his pajamas off before settling herself over his legs...she leaned forward and kissed him lightly on his lips before trailing her lips down towards his chest and abs...she then slowly increased the pressure with which she was stroking him before laying a soft kiss on his tip

He froze as he felt her mouth near his member before a soft kiss made him nearly come at the pleasure she gave him...he wanted to pull her up and slide into her inviting body but waited in anticipation as her mouth hovered over him...and then she made her decision as Arnav felt all the blood in his body rush down as her sweet hot tongue danced over him....he shut his eyes in ecstasy as her soft mouth slid perfectly over his hardness...while her hands continued stroking him

He took small puffs of breaths as she continued to suck him while his entire body shuddered in pleasure...he felt her beautiful hair all across his abs as she kept her momentum...but when he could not take it anymore, her held her shoulders to find her looking at him sheepishly as her desire clouded eyes bore into his...he felt completely overwhelmed at her acceptance of him and the fact that she was so very comfortable with him, made his heart go all all warm and fuzzy

He quickly flipped her over before pining her body down with his....he slid the thin straps of the soft sheer fabric, bringing her gorgeous breasts into his view...he bent down to capture one puckering nipple in his mouth while his expert hands squeezed the other... “Umm....Ar...Arnav...” khushi moaned as his other hand travelled inside her lingerie to pull away her matching soaked panties...she jerked in response as his thumb rubbed across her engorged nub while she thrashed her head on the now crumpled sheets

“Khushi....I need you....so much” Arnav said huskily as he slid the rest of the offending material off her leaving her stunning body bare to him....he ran his tongue over even dip and crevice making her shudder in need as her craving reached a boiling point... “N...now...Ar...Arnav” she nearly screamed as he continued to rub her over her heated core

He once again took her lips in a drugging kiss as he parted her legs before swiftly pushing himself inside her...her sudden sigh of relief made him relax inside her as he contemplated staying inside forever....but the building need and overwhelming tightness of her sheath made him pull out and thrust back into her as she held onto him, her nails digging into his shoulders and back... “Aah....harder....baby....” she moaned into his kiss as he increased his pace, making her body tremble with each hard push that he meted out

Khushi felt her body building up a powerful fulfillment as arnav's continued thrusts took her to an even higher edge than she had ever experienced before...she held onto him tighter as his lips trailed over her jaw before settling in the crook of her neck...she felt him bite her as a shattering orgasm hit her body at the same time, making her tremble in unbridled pleasure while the bite made it even more enjoyable....

She felt her body going back into an overdrive as one more orgasm hit her hard...right at the same time her Arnav spilled inside her...he grunted as let himself go into a blissful oblivion...their bodies satiated beyond what they had ever experienced...but as potent and passionate as their always were..

..........................................................

“So you wanted to surprise me huh?” Arnav asked Khushi a few minutes later as they lay in the aftermath of their passionate exercise...he felt her nod into the crook of his neck and giggle as she looked up and moved some of his hair that had settled over his forehead “Uh..huh...I did, but I fell asleep...I didn't know you'd be that late” she said as Arnav took her palm and kissed its center “I told my family about us...but looks like they already knew..” he said as Khushi widened her eyes....she continued to look at him in awe as he narrated the game his grandfather had played on them

“Oh my God...Arnav...do you think mamma and nani know too? Were we that transparent?!” she exclaimed as Arnav pulled her into him tighter “What does it matter if they do sweetheart...you are going to tell them anyways right?” he asked her a she looked at him and nodded “Yeah, but I want to the person to tell them...just like my mom...” she started saying when Arnav raised his eyebrows at her

She smiled suddenly and snuggled deeper into his arms “leave it...i'm sleepy now...” she said as Arnav pulled her back “You were going to tell me something right now...what was it? You don't have to keep any secrets from me...is this the same thing you were on about the other day?” Arnav asked her as she nodded and yawned “Yes...and i'll tell you...but after I tell my family about us...promise!” she said as arnav nodded and smiled at her...both shared one last kiss before closing their eyes as sleep came to them quite swiftly...both unaware of a new pandora's box that was about to be opened tomorrow.

Khushi's Nightwear

Chapter 39

“Did you know that you look gorgeous when you sneeze?” Akash said as Payal wrinkled her nose at him...she sneezed again into her handkerchief before glaring at him “That was not even remotely romantic Akash!....and how can someone look good when they sneeze?” she asked him as he shrugged his shoulders

“I don't know...the way your entire face scrunches up and your nose gets all red and puffy...its cute...but you always look gorgeous, so...” he said as Payal slapped his arm that was currently around her shoulder as they sat in the small cafe off the university campus

These few days had gotten them so close that it was hard to believe that Payal had almost hated him on their first meeting...there was something about him...that macho exterior which he showed to everyone, when she was the only one who could see the boyish innocence in him...his eyes...they spoke volumes yet had not completely opened up to her...as if he feared something; she hoped he will let her in soon..

Because believe it or not...pigs did fly and Payal Shashi Dinkaran was falling fast for the most unlikely boy she had ever imagined herself falling for....she loved the little things he did for her....like mixing the cane sugar in her coffee and stirring it for her...her name written randomly in his notebooks...something she had found out completely by chance...

The whole new feeling of being secured in his arms....something she had never experienced except when she was with her family...So, for once in her life...she had let go of the usual caution that she maintains with everyone and had embraced whatever life threw her way...

“Hey! Where are you lost babe?” Akash asked his beautiful girlfriend as she seemed to be staring away into space...he saw her look at him for a second before smiling that beautiful smile of hers that always made him think that the world was a much better place now...

“Nothing...Just, some stuff at home....” she said as he raised his eyebrow... “What stuff? All ok at home right?” he asked her mildly curious when she nodded and looked his way again “Yeah, everything good...in fact, I need to share something with you...” she said as she took a deep breath “See...the thing is...my dad...I think he is dating some woman” she said as Akash looked on wide-eyed

“What? Its just a hunch...but i see him smiling all the time...especially when he gets someone's texts...and he walks a lot...like he is always out of the house right after dinner...once I even saw him leaning against our upstairs gallery and laughing and giggling...I mean, which grown man...old man that too, giggles!” she said and blew her bangs that kept coming over her forehead

Akash snorted to keep his laugher at bay which made payal glare at him again as his face broke into a huge smile before he doubled over laughing... “Akash! This is not funny....there is a potential step-mother that might join our family soon! And what if she brings in step-siblings for us? What if dad suddenly stops loving us” she whined as Akash pulled her closer and dropped a quick peck on her frowning lips

“Stop being a drama queen my cinderella! First you need to analyze how you feel about him dating someone...someone, who like you said might be a potential step-mother..” he said as she closed her eyes and sighed “I don't know....see its weird that I was the one who encouraged him to get back into the game...you know, like date and find someone for himself...and now when he might be doing just that...I can't help but worry” she said as Akash smiled at her

“Babe...its his life too you know...just like we are dating and he may or may not have an issue with it, you too should analyze what you feel of this new phase in your dad's life...remember this payal...once you and your brother get into your own lives...he will be all alone...he too deserves to be with someone he can spend the rest of his life with...plus he's not that old! So why don't you cross the 'evil step-mother' bridge when you come to it?” he asked her as she nodded and snuggled in closer into him

“Hmm...you are right...and for all you know, i'm just imagining this...maybe there is nothing there....and if there is, I'll deal with it when its in front of me....” she said as Akash gave her a thumbs up, lifting the corners of her mouth “Yeah...and trust me, speculating will get you no where! Ask me...i've been trying to work out which new damsel bhai is dating since he too seems to be all secret texts and odd smiles” he said as Payal looked on confused

“Bhai? Who's that? Your cousin or something?” she asked with curiosity as Akash nearly bit his tongue off at the slip “Uh...yeah, kind of....one of my cousins...anyways, lets not get into all that....you tell me how your preparation for the exams are going?” he asked her as payal got into a detailed explanation of how she had planned her study schedule while akash kept finding himself getting deeper and deeper in the hole he had dug for himself.

....................................

“So how is work going beta? I heard you and Khushi are working extra hard on that French project?” Yudhisthir Raizada asked his grandson as they ate their lunch in the latter's cabin, a roast chicken salad for Arnav and Butter garlic naan with extra-buttery butter chicken for his grandfather

Arnav smiled as he saw his dadaji enjoy his forbidden food “Its going well...Khushi is very hardworking and she's giving her best to this project...if everything goes well, it will open a whole new international market for us” Arnav said as the older Raizada licked his finger making Arnav chuckle

“You do know that Bua will first shoot me and then skin you alive if she knows i'm feeding you this right?” Arnav said gesturing towards his nearly empty plate...well, empty except for the chicken bones...Yudhisthir laughed loudly as Arnav shook his head “Arre beta...if it was up to your bua, she would keep me alive on my medicines only...at least your dadi was good...and your mother even better...she used to sneak me all the yummy delicacies she made” he said as both went back to those times...when things were much simpler

“So...Khushi...she seems like such a wonderful person...I always liked her and i'm glad you both are doing so well...in fact, just last week I suggested Mr Khanna's son, Vikram for her...” he said as Arnav stopped his fork mid-way...not quite understating what his grandfather was on about

“Suggested? For what?” Arnav asked as his heartbeats started beating very fast..the food that he was enjoying just a minute ago felt like tar now “For her hand...she is very much of marriageable age, plus Mr Khanna was asking about her during one of our club meetings...they have been actively looking for a bride for their son and he wanted to know what I thought about Khushi...since, you know...we know her personally” he said as Arnav kept his salad bowl down

“And what did you say?” Arnav asked him as his grandfather shrugged his shoulders...completely oblivious to the turmoil that was raging in his grandson's eyes “Well, I told him all good things off course...and then even connected him with Shaliniji...who by the way, seemed very glad about the rishta...so, maybe we will be hearing the shenai soon!” he said chuckling before adding “You better finish your project before that...you know how Indian brides get, don't you?” he said as Arnav took a deep swig of his water and got up to go and stand by his window

“Where are you lost Arnav?” his grandfather called out to him as he continued to stare out with a fire raging in his chest and hands clenched by his sides... “Are you upset that I'm not putting any effort in your marriage?” Yudhisthir asked him as he got up and burped loudly...making Arnav turn back with confused eyes “My marriage? You mean...mine and...” he started asking before his grandfather cut him

“Yeah, yours and Seema's...” he said as Arnav looked on in confusion “Seema? Seema who? What are you taking about....” he started saying when someone knocked on his door making them both look towards it as Khushi stepped in “Mr Raizada....sorry I was busy with some work so did not get to join you for lunch as decided...how have you been?” Khushi asked as she walked in with a sunny smile

Yudhisthir Raizada observed the beautiful young lady in front of him before giving a quick look at his grandson who seemed to be looking anywhere but at her...a tortured look in his eyes as he averted his gaze and looked back towards the windows...something very fascinating catching his eyes for sure

“Khushi beta...i'm very well...don't worry about it...we'll do dinner sometime...in fact, your grandmother has called all of us next week at your home...” he said as Khushi nodded “Oh yes, she did mention it few days ago...she's coming back today from her tour” Khushi informed him as he nodded and gestured her to sit next to him on the couch while arnav stood rigidly at the window making Khushi wonder what was wrong with him

“So anyways, before you came in...I was telling Arnav, how I found the most wonderful life partner for him...” he started as Khushi felt all the color draining out of her...the slight blush that had marred her perfectly smooth cheeks a second ago got displaced with a ghostly white as his grandfather continued to speak “Seema Jadeja is just the perfect woman for Arnav...and I know her family since quite some time...I was just discussing this with Arnav when you came in” he said as Arnav finally turned around

“Dadaji...can we talk about this later?” he said as his dadaji gave him a reproachful look “Arnav, don't be shy...its only Khushi and she's like family now...so as I was saying, at least meet the girl first...am i right Khushi?” Yudhisthir turned towards khushi who looked like she was about to faint

“Khushi? Are you ok? You don't look so well” he said as Khushi picked up a glass of water from the table and gulped it down...Arnav too turned concerned eyes towards her as she looked away from him “I'm ok...just feeling a little under the weather...” she said as Arnav came near to them “You should go and rest in the penthouse Khushi...I'll call for some medicine...” he started saying when she got up on wobbly feet and looked right at him

“I am perfectly fine Arnav...you need not worry for me...” she said before turning towards his grandfather “I'll take your leave now Mr Raizada...I really do have a lot of work to do today...hope you enjoyed your lunch” she said with a smile that did not quite reach her eyes “Oh yes! The food was wonderful....but unfortunately I don't get to eat all this at home...hopefully my new bahu will make it for me..right Arnav? I have heard Seema is quite a cook!” he said as Arnav glared at him while Khushi looked away

“Anyways...I too better leave now...I've taken enough of Arnav's time today” he said as khushi smiled at him and nodded “Yeah, me too...see you soon though” she said as she bid her goodbye without even looking once at Arnav...she walked straight out of his cabin...her throat too constricted to speak, her eyes tired holding in the moisture and her heart breaking into pieces.

...............................

As soon as Yudhisthir Raizada got into the lift on the 7^th floor, Arnav turned on his heels to go and meet Khushi...He wasn't sure how he could go and explain his complete lack of denial to what his grandfather was talking about...but the truth was that he respected his grandfather too much to outright deny what he was suggesting, though deny he would.Period. But he still wasn't sure what Khushi felt for him...

But the way she reacted to what was being said in his cabin, he was hoping his assumptions were correct...he could not wait any longer now...there was too much at stake; the way his grandfather was going on about that Khanna guy, it wouldn't be too long now that her grandmother would bring it up...putting her in a fix....for the first time in his life, Arnav felt like he was too close to losing something so precious in his life that he would cease to exist if he did

He quickened his steps and barged inside Khushi's cabin, only to find it empty...he walked to the en-suite and knocked when the door opened and Aman came running inside “ASR? Khushi mam is not her...she...left...” he said as Arnav scrunched his eyebrows “She left?.....when? She was here a minute ago...” he said as Aman shook his head “No...I mean, I think she has gone to the penthouse....she didn't seem well” he said as Arnav without replying to him walked briskly back to the elevators before punching in his card to the top floor

He hardly wasted a second before he rushed into the apartment and called out to Khushi...only to find her standing at the kitchen counter with her palms holding onto the edge of it...her body went stiff as she heard his voice, but she did not turn around as he made his way up to her “Khushi?” he called out softly as she moved away from him, still not facing him

“Khushi...i'm sorry....I could not say anything to dadaji at that point...I respect him too much to straightway rebuff him..but I will....you just....” he said as she turned around making him stop midway....he felt his heart clutch painfully as he saw her reddened eyes...her cheeks a witness to the streams of tears that had run down their downy path... “Shit...I'm sorry baby...I made you cry” he said as he pulled her stiff body to him and ran his hands down her back relaxing her...he felt her resist at first before giving in and holding him tight...her shoulders shook as she cried into his chest

“Shh...Khushi....sweetheart, please....stop....No one can take your place in my life...please...I can't see you cry” he said as he felt his eyes fill up for her sorrow....she pulled back from him before holding his face in her hands “I love you” she said as he stared at her as if he was facing an alternate reality....he knew she had strong feelings for him..and here he had come to confess his feelings and hope to God that she felt something closer to what he did..but those three words she uttered made him feel as if he was dreaming... “What?” he asked her as if in a daze when she left him and moved away from him sighing

“I know, you might not have wanted to hear this Arnav....but I can't keep it inside any longer...I was a person who was always in control of my feelings....I never let anything and anyone affect me....maybe it was because I saw the true face of relationships very early in my life...if my own father could abandon me, why will anyone else want me?...this is what I always told myself and stayed away from forming lasting relationships...” she said as her eyes teared up again

“Then you came in to my life...we started off on quite the wrong foot...but that first time I met you in the club, and the kind of impression you had about me, I don't know...I wanted to prove you wrong...that look in your eyes haunted me all those years...” she started saying when Arnav shook his head and came forward “and then I met you again...but under completely different circumstances...I really did not know where things would lead to, but whatever happened was inevitable” she said as Arnav kept looking at her....his heart beating in a tandem

“I resisted you Arnav....I kept telling myself that this should not happen...because I knew that with you, it wouldn't be that easy to let go....and I now know that I was right....that I can never let go...” she said as she wiped her tears making Arnav want to take her in his arms but he waited...she had to get everything out

“I fell for you Arnav...and it wasn't that difficult...you were my only pillar of hope in my darkest time...and you continue to stand tall for me...but i'm not sure if I deserve it...and maybe that was why I did not want the world to know about us...the investigation was just a ruse...because I myself wasn't sure if you should be with someone who is as emotionally challenged as me....” she said as Arnav took a deep breath....of all the stupid things this girl could think of “Khushi...” he said as she once again flashed her eyes at him

“No...your grandfather is right...You deserve someone better than me...that...that Seema, seems like the perfect woman for you...and i'm sorry I blurted out my feelings for you....but I...I could not pretend anymore....I'm not a martyr who would sacrifice my love for someone I don't know...but I want you to think very clearly about what you want...and I will not keep anything against you if you..if you...” she started saying when Arnav pulled her to him startling her as she held his shoulders to balance herself

“Shut up Khushi....I have heard enough from you...now let me tell you what I think” he said as she continued to look into his eyes that were now blazing fire “How dare you tell me to leave you and go to someone I have never even met or have no intention of ever meeting...how dare you assume what I feel for you...how dare you think that after confessing what you feel for me, I will leave you and go...how dare you Khushi!” he said as his voice went up a few notches

“Don't you have any idea what I feel for you? All this time with me and you assume that my feelings for you are so fickle...that one day you tell me that you love me and the next moment ask me to 'think' about leaving you?...you are right Khushi Gupta...you are an emotional mess and I'm a fool to be with you...” he said as she closed her eyes to stop the tears from flowing out

“But you are my emotional mess....and I'll be a bigger fool if I let you go without telling you what I really feel for you....so here it is Khushi....something that I have been dying to get out since the past few days....something which I know I would only tell someone I was very sure to spend the rest of my life with....” he said as khushi opened her eyes to only gasp at the tenderness she saw in his eyes making her heart flutter aimlessly

“I love you....I love you so much that I cannot envision a second being away from you....every night I sleep with your thoughts in my mind...remembering every little thing that you said or did in the day and in the morning I wake up with the sole purpose of seeing you again...to make new memories with you....there is no one who has a hold over my heart like you do and there never will be....” he said as she looked up in awe as her cheeks flushed with the beautiful red color that he adored

“Be mine Khushi...forever...” he said as she smiled before pulling down his face for a much needed kiss...a kiss of love....a kiss of life....a kiss of being together forever....As their tongues met to taste the sweetness of each other, their hearts finally beat as one

Khushi smiled against his lips as he pulled her closer still before she angled her head to look at him “You really love me?” she asked him shyly as if she could not belive it “Its not that difficult you know....” he said as he rubbed his nose with her's“What isn't?” she asked as he sighed and kissed her lightly “Loving you” he said before hugging her tightly to his body as her arms wound around him...possessively...in love.