Chapter 10

The next day in office was pretty routine for both Arnav and Khushi, but with meetings lined up the entire day and both taking care of different divisions of the company, they hardly had any time or reason to meet each other...

“Aman...i really don't know what to do about this girl...why is she making my life so difficult?!” Khushi asked as she rested her tired head on her chair and closed her eyes...all the fun from last night had more of less dissipated as soon as she had woken up to her head of HR's call in the morning

He had told her that Sahiba had spoken to him about a few concerns regarding her role in the department...and had requested to be put back into R&S...this had done it for Khushi, who had failed to understand what her exact problem was.

She had reworked on Sahiba's job profile last week and had given her a much better role looking at the past work she had done in R&S; even Arnav had agreed to the role change, stating that an employee of Sahiba's caliber should be given this deserving post...but Khushi still had a nagging doubt that the woman just did not like working under her.

“I'm not sure maam...i think it's best you speak to her once...” he said as khushi opened one eye “Hmm...i think i'll go and have a word with Arnav first...the matter has still not gone to him since she reports in to me directly now” khushi said as she pushed herself off the chair and left to meet arnav

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

“Come in” Arnav called out as he quickly typed up a mail...he looked up briefly to see khushi enter his cabin “Hey...just give me a minute ok” he said with a quick smile as khushi nodded and sat in one of the plush chairs at his desk

Arnav quickly finished drafting his mail and saved it before leaning back in his chair, observing the woman in front of him “So..what's up? Looks like you've been busy all day!” he said as he took in her tired face.

He was still in a happy mood after yesterday's night out and was actually looking forward to meeting her today...but work had kept them both very busy.

“Yes I know...we just signed on a new media agency and a new advertising agency today morning...the entire day went in negotiations and setting deliverables” she said as she sighed and twirled the paperweight on his desk

“What's the matter khushi? You don't look so well...the seekh kabab acting up?” he teased her as she finally looked up at him with a soft smile on her face and a twinkle in her eyes “Haha...that is so not funny...” she said as she finally relaxed and sat back in the chair

“Arnav...the reason i'm here is that i'm concerned for Sahiba, she spoke to HR about shifting back to R&S...i really don't know why...she is an asset to GR and i would love to have her in my team...but i think she just does not like me...and i can't seem to understand why” she said as arnav sighed and went back to his laptop

Khushi thought it was very rude of him to disregard her concern so casually but when Arnav turned his laptop towards her a few seconds later, she was stumped by what she saw on his laptop

“Khushi...she wrote this mail to me yesterday...she had already spoken to me about her concern and how she did not find it comfortable to work under you..” he said as khushi looked at him dumbfounded, her mouth set in a tight line.

“Khushi...don't look at me like that...we had promised all the people in the new team, that they could go back to their original job if they wanted to...so i did not argue with her...i told her she can take her decision once she spoke with you” he said as khushi slowly shook her head

“Hold on a minute...you knew about this?And you did not think it would be wise to tell me?” she asked him with a questioning look to which arnav shrugged his shoulders

“I thought it would be best if she spoke to you directly...i did not want to get involved in it; as it is, you look at marketing...i think she only wanted my advice, so she wrote this mail to me” he said nonchalantly only to have khushi spring up from her chair angrily.

“Oh right...and yet, you told her that she could easily go back to her old job!...how is that, you not getting involved, pray tell?” she asked him, her arms flying around animatedly

“Arnav...i'm not saying that you don't have a say in this, but this girl works directly under me...and she had to speak to me about her concerns...if she has a f****g problem because i'm younger and less experienced than her...then screw her..i don't need her on my team” she said, her eyes blazing green

“I had told you this earlier as well arnav...i do not care for people who make issues out of nothing...there is nothing this girl has against me...there is no reason for her to complain and whine when i have only been more than considerate towards her compared to the others...i have gone out of my way to better her role, something which i have never done before...and this is what i have to face?” she asked him banging her hands on arnav's desk

“Calm down khushi” arnav said in a steady voice, but one could make out a kind of underlying rage in it...no one had dared to speak to him in this way...and no one would.

“I really don't know what your problem is here! I have told you time and again, that people like Sahiba will have a problem working for someone who is their junior in experience and age...its natural..and one thing I absolutely believe in, is giving an employee their rightful freedom...if Sahiba does not feel comfortable working with you, then she can go back to R&S...as it is, a person of her caliber is an asset to any company” he said as khushi pursed her lips

“Why are you making such a big deal out of it? I had told her to speak to you before taking any decision...how is it my fault that she did not feel the need to? Maybe she does not feel comfortable talking to you...but that is no reason for you to blow your fuse this way!” he said as he too got up and stood stiffly

“Tell me Khushi...is it because you will lose a good team member or are you so egotistical that you can't seem to accept the fact that someone does not think that highly of you...that they take offense at the fact that you are here purely because of your name...” he said as khushi suddenly looked up, her eyes shining with hurt and disbelief

“That's quite enough Mr Raizada...i think you have said enough” she said as she turned and walked out of his cabin leaving a very angry arnav behind...he kept looking at the door she had just left from and could not help but feel a little regret at the words he had uttered in anger..

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

Shalini Gupta looked up at the door in the study as a faint knock halted her conversation with their CFO, she uttered a soft come in and smiled as her daughter walked in “Ah..Garima...you are back...how was school beta?” she asked her daughter who rolled her eyes as she sat down

After saying a quick hello to Mr Raj, their CFO she turned towards her mother “Oho ma...its the same old story...kids fighting, laughing, playing and in these recent years swearing as well” she said with a laugh as the other two joined in

“Good...i'm glad you enjoy your work...you don't know how glad i was when you said you wanted to start teaching again” Shalini said as Garima looked down, a soft smile playing at her lips “I know ma, it gives me peace...something which i've got after a really long time”

They sat in silence for a couple of minutes before Shalini took a deep breath as she turned towards their CFO “Raj, i think we should talk to Garima about the matter we were discussing just now” she said with a grim face as Garima suddenly looked up to find their faces clouded in worry

“What happened ma? Raj ji, is everything ok?” she asked them when Mr Raj leaned a little bit on the desk and looked at her sideways “Garima, i just want to know something very truthfully from you...it is something personal and i would not have asked you this, had your mother not insisted on it” he said as Garima nodded

“Has Arun asked you for money recently? A large sum..” he asked her with a straight face, the question throwing Garima off for a second before she composed herself “I don't think that is any of your concern” she said in a mild annoyed voice when her mother interrupted

“Yes, it is his concern...because recently there has been a lot of money going out of our company for deals and vendors we don't know about” she said in an exasperated voice which had Garima look at her mother with concern

“Ma, i did not know this....have they found out who is doing this? And please don't say its Arun...now a days anything happens, you blame him...” she said getting disturbed; Shalini looked at Mr Raj and nodded her head to give him consent to continue

“Garima, please don't get distressed, we know how important Mr Arun is to you...but during our yearly Audit, we have come to know that most of these accounts have been made on his insistence...the only reason i asked you the earlier question was because you have helped him before as well...so i was wondering if..” he started saying when Garima looked at him with moist eyes

“Raj ji, I really don't know what to say..." Garima said as she looked away for a few seconds before facing her mother and Raj again 

"Yes...yes he did ask me sometime back for a large sum...he said he wanted to start a new business on Khushi's name in Dubai...he did not tell me all the details, but only that it was with a a very big company and was bound to be a success” she said as both Mr Raj and Shalini looked at each other

“But I had this nagging doubt about the investment...when i asked for some more details and figures, and also asked him to get Khushi involved, he refused...we had a small fight and he did not bring it up again after that” she said as she sighed and closed her eyes

“Garima...its ok, this will help us immensely...but beta, i need to ask something of you” her mother said to her as she lay a withered hand over her daughters “If this comes true...if it really is Arun who is divesting us of money...then there will be criminal proceedings against him...you will not...and i repeat not ask me to pardon him...because i will not” she said with finality

Garima's eyes filled up listening to her mother...she felt guilty of the fact that her mother had to actually say such a thing to her...that a mother had to plead her daughter to be on her side when she always has been...but it was her heart that was a traitor...she squeezed her mother's hand back and took a deep breath

“Ma...i promise, if its proved that Arun is behind all this; if it is proved that he had any hand in playing with hard earned money of so many people, nothing in this world will make me stand against you...i will be with you in this...I have given him too many chances to change...to maybe see a glimpse of what he was all those years ago...but even I am tired now ma...” she said as a new determination shone in her eyes

She smiled at her mother who looked a lot relieved than she was earlier...it would be difficult, she knew that...but it was time she took a stand.

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

“ASR?” Lavanya said as she came to stand next to him and shook him by his shoulders to get his attention...she looked at him with a concern when he finally looked up with a thoughtful expression “ASR? What's wrong? I called you name like 3 times...where are you lost?”

“Lavanya...I..nothing, i was just thinking about Sahiba,..remember i told you to keep an eye on the new team...do you have anything to report to me?” he asked her when she gave him a quick smile and went to sit opposite him at the desk

“Actually I was going to tell you this in the morning...but i got busy with the preparations for the mela tomorrow” she said as she kept her phone and notebook down. She leaned a little towards him and spoke in a soft voice

“You see ASR, after you told me to check on the team...i tried to get a bit closer to the new people..the one's from Gupta Mills? They seem to be doing pretty well and seem to be happy...yes some have concerns about how things will progress, but that is natural..” she said as arnav nodded at the information she was parting

“But, when it came to our team...there seemed to be a little bit of a...how do I put it? Disturbance maybe?” she said twisting her face “What disturbance? Was there any concern?” arnav asked her as she sighed loudly and pursed her lips

“You could say that...but more than a concern, it was what was being said that was disturbing...especially Sahiba....she seemed to be instigating to everyone that Khushi is not a nice person to work with...and that her attitude stinks and all that...but I don't think it has affected anyone really..because i personally think she's great to work with...and i guess the rest think that too...its just Sahiba who doesn't...and I wonder why...its not like she has had that many interactions with Khushi maam..” Lavanya said wondering aloud..

She was still in her thoughts, when she heard Arnav take a deep breath...she suddenly looked up to see her boss getting up and pocketing his phone...she too got up as arnav looked at her and gave her a slight smile “Thanks..I have an urgent meeting with Khushi...shift any of my other meetings if they overlap” he said and left before Lavanya could answer

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

“Yes Maasi...I know, off course I'll come for the engagement shopping....i've missed all this so much!” Khushi said as a small smile lit her face, lifting her earlier black mood..she had really been hurt by Arnav's words...but somehow wasn't surprised when he had spoken them...oddly enough she knew that whatever light moments they had shared last night would never translate to trust and respect for her work...she did not expect anything else from him

She was working out on prospective new employee for Sahiba's role, when her maasi had called her and reminded her about the shopping trip they were planning for Akhil's fiancee...the thought suddenly making her smile...she was very happy that her cousin had found such a lovely girl and was genuinely looking forward to spending time with the women in her family

She was just saying good bye to her maasi when her door was barged open and the last man she wanted to see walked in...his face sombre but his eyes warm. She calmly kept her phone down and leaned back in her chair...legs crossed at her knees

“I would prefer if you could knock...” she said in a slightly cold tone and watched in satisfaction as his eyes took on an embarrassed look... “I know...but i had to speak to you very urgently..” he said as she nodded and asked him to sit

Arnav was too wound up to do anything else...after his talk with Lavanya, he had gone to speak to Sahiba himself when he had chanced upon a small gathering at her desk...the discussion he had heard there had got his blood boiling...when they had noticed him standing there, everyone had dispersed quickly leaving Sahiba to face his wrath alone

He knew he had to apologize to Khushi for the harsh words he threw at her...she was right, Sahiba was simply being difficult because her ego was hurt...that was the only reason she was badmouthing Khushi and telling people the exact opposite of what Khushi had done for her...he knew that Khushi had gone out of her way to accommodate Sahiba, but the version she was telling the others was completely opposite of what had happened.

So here he was, after blasting of that girl for her behavior and serving her a termination notice...at Khushi Gupta's desk...to apologize.

“Arnav? You can sit you know...its your office anyways...i'm just here because of my name” she said as he felt something prick him and it worsened when he saw the hurt in her eyes. He kept his hands on her desk and looked into her eyes “Look Khushi...I...I only came to tell you...” he started saying when she looked at him questioningly

“Uh...I” he said again, trying to form words which for some reason were getting stuck in his throat...how do you apologize to someone after hurting them with such horrible words... “What is it Arnav? I have a meeting in 5 mins...did you come here to say something or just stare at me?” she asked him when he sighed and took his hands off her desk

“Are you coming to the event tomorrow? The Aastha Foundation Mela?” he asked her when she widened her eyes, not believing that he had come all the way to ask her this “I....I mean, i wanted to personally invite you” he said as he berated himself for steering from the real issue...his apology

“Oh how sweet of you, the great ASR coming to personally invite me...off course I'll be there...its a very noble cause and my mother is also very much involved in it....I don't mix my personal and professional issues Arnav...whatever happened in your cabin a while ago, will not affect my equation with you out of office” she said  stiffly as arnav nodded, not sure of what to say.

“Thats...uh...so i'll see you there tomorrow” he said as khushi looked away and nodded...arnav stood still for a few seconds more before walking back to the door...but the restlessness would not leave him...he turned back before stepping out of the room and called out to her softy “Khushi?”

She looked up at him with guarded eyes, not sure of what he was going to say “Khushi....I'm sorry” he said before he briskly walked away leaving a stunned khushi behind...unsure of what just passed.

Chapter 9

If Khushi's car was a big surprise to Arnav, then the place where they were headed was a bigger one; As soon as the Silver Astin Martin convertible had made an entrance in front of the sparse gaping crowd at the back of the club, back because the paparazzi were still hounding the front , Arnav could not help but wonder who the beauty belonged to.

But the mystery was solved when Ms Gupta herself sashayed to the driver's door and handed the valet his tip..she looked at him and said with a wink "I'm a huge Bond fan" He was momentarily struck by her choice in cars but quickly composed himself and got into the passenger seat with a smirk.

He knew she was waiting for him to comment...more than waiting daring him to say something...but he did not give her the satisfaction of it...instead he leaned back in the plush leather and closed his eyes as car roared into life

They had once again fallen into an easy conversation about work and the city in general with arnav letting khushi take an unknown road towards the south mumbai area...though they both stayed in town*, the dark and bumpy road which was quite uncommon here left him wondering where exactly they were headed to

“Uh..Khushi...where are we going exactly?” he asked her as she looked at him with a glint in her eyes “Oh...just wait n watch...i've not been there since the last time i was in Mumbai...so it's taking me a bit longer to remember the proper route....but this was a short-cut we used to take” she said as arnav nodded

He thought it best to trust her judgement before passing a sexist comment on women and directions.."You haven't eaten anything yet have you?” she suddenly asked him making him remember his grumbling stomach “Not really...but if your'e hungry, we can grab a bite at Zodiac...It shouldn't be that far from here” he said glancing outside

She grinned and winked at him before turning into a still smaller lane “Oh we are going to eat allright...just not at a fancy restaurant like Zodaic” she said as they finally came to a stop in a brightly lit street bustling with late night workers and party goers.

“Ok...lets go...my car won't go further than this...its just through there” she said pointing towards what looked like a small grocery store. Arnav nodded and got out of his seat as khushi waited for him to join her on her side...they could hear whispers of the few people trying to make out who they were...He nearly burst out laughing when he heard some one say 'Shahrukh khan hai kya?' (is it Shahrukh Khan?)

“What happened?” Khushi asked him as he pursed his lips and controlled his mirth “Nothing...i'm just not sure where you are taking me...are you sure I can trust you? What if you are going to drug me and sell my kidney or something?” he said as khushi gave him an amused look

“Oh my God...did you just crack a joke?” she said with a mock shocked face to which arnav simply shrugged “I told you...there is lots you don't know about me...i'm not the khadoos everyone thinks me to be” he said as khushi smiled “Oh yes i know...my mother is one who always sings your praises” she said rolling her eyes

“Garima aunty is a sweetheart....i don't think she can't not sing everyone's praises...she has this innate talent to look for goodness in even the worst of people” he said as she sighed “Tell me about it” she said as arnav looked at her frowning face...he knew she was thinking about her father

“By the way...i never knew that our parents were acquainted” she said as arnav nodded “Yes they were...i think you were at boarding that time...i had met your parents a couple of times since i studied in Mumbai only” he said as she nodded “It must be difficult not having them around” she said to which he shrugged again

“You get used to it” he said hoping that khushi won't talk about it anymore...and to his relief she just smiled at him and pointed towards something that looked like a little stall 

“Here we are!” she said as arnav tried to look around for a restaurant or at the most a building that might hold one...but when the most amazing aroma's stuck his nasal senses...he knew this was the place she was raving about

He looked at her sheepishly as she gave him a smug look “Oh...i assumed again...but seriously, is it my fault? I could never guess that you would eat at a place like this...i mean most girls like you don't go anywhere near such places” he said as she pulled him forward and ordered two mutton seekh rolls for them

“Girls that you know don't Mr Raizada...i don't think you know any girls like me” she said as she paid for the rolls and started walking back to the car. They both knew that it wasn't advisable to sit there and eat...especially the way they were dressed

As soon as they sat inside, Khushi put on the air conditioning and settled into her seat before greedily biting into the succulent kabab, covered in spicy salad and soft roomali roti..she let out a soft moan relishing the stinging heat of the kabab and the cooling hit of the chutney

Arnav too closed his eyes in satisfaction as he bit into his roll, he was beyond surprised to know that Khushi knew of this place and liked this food...he had eaten at many such places, but her eating here was a huge surprise for him.

He was just about to thank her for bringing him here when her sudden moan and eyes closed in food ecstacy made him watch her in fascination, he shifted in his seat as Khushi suddenly opened her eyes and looked at him “So, did you like it?” she asked arnav who just realized that his mouth was open with the kabab still in his hands while khushi had already polished off the entire thing

He nodded and went back to eating the rest of it as khushi rummaged in the cooler in between the two seats for some water, she took a couple of sips as arnav finished his and offered the same bottle to him. Once they were belted back into place she started the engine as arnav asked her “Where to next?”

“Well...since we are in this part of town...i know exactly the place for the perfect chai” she said as he raised his eyes “Chai? At this time?” he asked her incredulously as she nodded enthusiastically and reversed the car out of the small parking area.

He leaned back and relaxed as she put on some classic rock music and opened the windows “I just love it when i'm driving around marine drive...the wind in my air...the smell of sea...bliss!” she said as he could not help but smile at the excitement

They drove a bit more till Khushi finally slid her car in one of the free parking areas in front of marine drive, close to nariman point...they both got down with arnav following khushi to the upper seating area overlooking the beautiful Queen's necklace

“I love this place...i used to come here a lot with my parents” arnav mused as he let the gentle breeze caress his face...he could not remember the last time he had been so carefree...it felt wonderful to not be hounded by the press or feel suffocated at society parties.

“I know you must be wondering where the chai is right?” khushi asked him as she rubbed her arms along her bare arm. Arnav nodded at her as he took off his coat and gave it to her “Yes i am...but this is nice too....here, put this on...the last thing we want is a mob out to kidnap you” he said as khushi rolled her eyes

“Thanks..but all this is so filmy and cliched right? The hero chivalrously giving his coat to the heroine who is freezing to death in her thin dress...now all we have to wait for is the slow violin music and the cue to look into each others eyes” she said wriggling her eyebrows as arnav burst out laughing

“Has anyone told you how mad you are? I don't think i could ever guess this side of your's” he said as khushi grinned “I know...i am really mad...but when it comes to work, i take professional conduct very seriously!” she said as arnav continued to chuckle

“You should laugh more you know...all that frowning and sneering will make your face age earlier than it should” she said as arnav raised an eyebrow “Oh, this is coming from you? I haven't seen you smile and laugh like this since i met you” he said as she wore his coat and tightened it around herself

“I know...i actually haven't...” she said to which he gave her a confused look “I mean...i actually haven't smiled and laughed so much....since a long time” she said as she looked away “Thanks for joining me today...i really needed this” she said looking back at him

He promptly smiled, still wondering what she meant by her earlier words “By the way....you still need to tell me about that Banerjee chap everyone keeps asking you about” he said once again trying to broach the subject...he did not know why, but it really bothered him....the way that people kept asking her about him

“Hmm...well, since i promised you i'll tell you but i really want to know if your girlfriend writes? I mean...i don't mean to mock her...but she really does not seem like the kind to...” she started saying when he shook his head “Oh..no don't worry...i know you only asked out of curiosity” he said as she smiled at him

“Sheetal...does write....or you can say, she is under this illusion that she can write...” he said as khushi burst out laughing followed by arnav “Ok...we have to stop laughing...its not good for me” he said as khushi suddenly pointed towards a kid on a bicycle

“There he is...” she said as she suddenly got up and waved to the boy who seemed to be carrying a huge steel apparatus and paper cups on his tiny cycle “Chotu...do chai dena (two tea's please)” she said as they boy stopped in front of them and poured out two steaming cups of ginger tea for them

Khushi took both the cups and looked at arnav who was still sitting “Well..what are you waiting for? Give him 10 rupees...i paid for the kababs...so the least you could do is treat me to this chai” she said as arnav shook his head and handed over the 10 rupee note...something which he had to really search for in his wallet

“Seriously Khushi....you know exactly how to make a man feel worthless!” he said as she grinned widely and handed over his tea “Hey...that's just me..” she said as he took his tea from her...after a few sips of tea, he turned back to her

“Now...tell me about him....” he said as she took tiny sips of her tea and looked at him....the depth in her gaze, suddenly unnerving him “You really don't know who Sujoy is?” she asked him to which he shook his head..it amazed her how much he wanted to know about Sujoy

“Arnav...do you ever watch movies?” she asked him to which he thought for a few seconds before shaking his head “Not really....i don't get time for them...i'm mostly a news and share market kinda guy....that's all i really see on television...and i really cannot remember the last time i steeped into a cinema” he said as khushi looked at him wide-eyed

“Wow...you really are something...no wonder you don't know about him” she said as she finished her tea and snuggled into his coat...the intimate gesture making arnav's heart flutter “So...Sujoy is a hollywood director...he's one of the few Indian born directors that hollywood has...and his is Good...Oscar good” she said as arnav nodded

“I met him a couple of years ago at party in LA..” she said as arnav continued to listen to her...“We got into an easy conversation...and hit it off...but we never took it further....I was still in university that time and all this was pretty new to me...so i never understood when i developed feelings for him” she said as she drew her knees closer to her body

“We kept meeting now and then...i even did a workshop with him, though it was out of my syllabus...but i really liked his company...he had this aura around him you know...” she said as arnav continued to listen “After about a year of knowing him...he suddenly asked me out” she said as her eyes lowered

“I was tempted...very tempted...and i knew that i liked him....a bit too much, plus both of us were not looking for anything permanent...at least not at that point” she said with a small smile

“Things got pretty routine after that...and i moved in with him....Nani and mamma obviously were not happy and the fact that he was much much older than me...and was not interested in marriage, just did it for them...we never saw eye to eye on that issue....but they are not the kind of people to give me ultimatums and dhamki's (threats)...so they kept quite” she said as she sighed deeply

“So are you still with him? Like a long distance thing?” arnav asked her as she shook her head “No...when nani proposed this new opportunity to join GR, i really had to put things into perspective...when i thought over our relationship...i felt that more than anything, we liked each others company...but there was never love in our equation...and he knew it too” she said as she looked at arnav

“I'm not the kind of person who believes in love...i can't..my father saw to it” she said as her eyes moistened “So...it wasn't difficult for both if us to step out of whatever we had...we parted as friends...and will always be friends...” she said as arnav kept his hand on hers

“Khushi...I” Arnav started saying when looked at him “Its ok Arnav...i know your'e feeling awkward after listening to all this...but you have a right to know....professionally this question will come up now and then during our interaction with media...and you should know the truth behind it” she said as he nodded

“Sujoy has still not disclosed the details about why we both split...thats why the media goes crazy wondering what is going on...but they'll get their answer when they see him strolling around sunset boulevard with someone new” she said as a soft smile lit her face

“Or they might see you with a someone new” he said as she pulled her hand from below his and folded them in front of him “Maaf karo (sorry)...but there is no way i'll be seen prancing about like that!” she said as she made a sour face “I like being on my own...i don't need a man to complete me!” she said smugly

“I'm sure you'll be fine on your own Khushi...but sometimes you need someone to share your life with....otherwise life gets very boring, you need a special someone” he said as she raised an eyebrow “Oh and you are an expert on this because Sheetal is your special somepne?” she asked him to see him look horrified

“No way...Sheetal knows where she stands in our relationship....you can say she is the Sujoy in my life...but only someone i can't stand at times!” he said grimacing when khushi hit him playfully “Arnav singh raizada...women are not playthings...you can't use her like this” she said as he grinned

“Oh...i'm not using her at all...in fact she is using me!” he said as she opened her mouth “Disgusting!” she said as he threw back his head and laughed “Oh don't judge me darling...we don't live in an ideal world now do we?” he asked at which she nodded

“Nope...we dont! And thank God for that!” she said as he got up dusting his pants “And who knows Khushi...the right man for you might already be in your life...” he said as she got up and straightened her dress “Oh yeah...like who?”

He smirked at her as he gave her a hand to get down “Shyam jha!” he said as she glared at him “That is not even remotely funny!” she said as both walked towards the car with a silly smile on their faces

They did not say much after that as khushi drove him to his house, which was only a couple minutes away from there....they parted outside his house with soft goodnights and smiles of trust and a budding friendship

As Arnav hung his coat inside his huge wardrobe...he could not help but inhale the heady scent of the woman he had spent the night with...not in the sense that he usually does...but in a sense he never had...he knew that after tonight, he would never think of Khushi like he did before he had met her.

She really was an enigma...someone who seemed so strong and poised from the outside, but was equally fragile inside...the girl had soo many facets to her...that he imagined it would take a lifetime to understand her...he shook his head as he prepared for bed at the absurdity of the night...

Something that started off as a pretentious farce of a night...ended in the most liberating way amongst easy conversation and real laughs...this was this last thought as he fell in to a dreamless sleep...something which he had not had since a long time.

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

“I can't believe you let this opportunity pass off you idiot!” the gruff voice came from the other end as the man holding the phone walked around agitatedly in his living room “I could not help it...she left very quickly...that too wiht that ASR....i could hardly carry out our phase two...especially since she refused the drink” he said as the voice sneered from the toher end

“I don't care...this is the last time i'm warning you...get the job done as soon as you can...I want to make a mockery out of that girl! You get it?...and its intriguing that she went with ASR...is something brewing there?” he asked as the man took a deep breath “I don't care....you know what? I can't do this anymore...i want out” he said as the voice started laughing

“Oh you want out do you? Did you forget the stuff i have against you? You know what it will do to your precious career now, don't you?” he said as the man gulped down his fears and closed his eyes, he damned the day when he lost his senses!...dammit...if it weren't for her...he thought as the man's voice cut through his thoughts

“Oh, its no use regretting the past...you are my puppet now..do what i say or else...” he said as the man cut the call and threw his phone away...he knew there was nothing he could do...nothing!

* Town that i mentioned is South Mumbai...we in Mumbai call it town or SOBO...very expensive place to live in!

Marine Drive with a view of Queen's Necklace (in Town...)

Chapter 8

“So bhai...i was in office today” Akash said lounging about on the lazyboy in arnav's room, busy with his playstation. Arnav had just finished applying his aftershave and had walked out of his bathroom in his pants with a towel around his neck

“Oh Yeah...when?” arnav asked as he threw his towel towards the laundry basket in the corner and opened his wardrobe to pick out a shirt...he looked over his shoulders at his brother engrossed in his game

“Akash...i asked you something...why and when were you in office?” he asked him again as akash paused his game and looked up at his brother who was now putting his arms through a pale blue shirt “Sorry bhai...what were you saying?” he asked him again as arnav rolled his eyes while buttoning up his shirt

“You told me you were in my office today..?” he asked him as he picked out his jacket for the evening. He went to the mirror and gelled his hair before going back into the bathroom to wash his hands..he heard akash say something and walked out just in time to hear his last sentence

“...and man is she hot!” akash said with a dreamy face...arnav walked towards him and picked up his phone from the table as he asked him again in mild annoyance “What are you talking about Akash?”

“I just told you na!...i went in to sign some papers that yudi wanted me to sign...but when i came to meet you, you were busy with some work...so i went down to the cafeteria to grab a cup of coffee...when i saw her” he said with a goofy smile which left arnav amused

“Her? Who did you lose your heart out to now?” he asked him typing something on his phone when akash sighed and leaned back on the lazyboy, stretching his arms above him “Khushi gupta....the woman of my dreams!” he said as arnav's fingers suddenly stilled over his keypad

“What?” he asked akash, turning towards him “Did you say Ms Gupta?” he asked him to which akash nodded “yes bhai...she is perfect! Every man's dream...God...that face, that body and that luscious long hair...i just wanted to...” he said when arnav's glare made him stop talking further

“Akash...she is my colleague...and partner...I expect the utmost respect for her from you...she is not a college girl you want to roll in the hay with..understand?” he said sternly to which akash started laughing hysterically...he fell off his chair while arnav continued to glare at him

“Roll in the hay! Bhai...why are you talking like its the 80's!” he said with huge guffaws as arnav went back to his typing...akash saw his brothers stiff stance and unsmiling face and knew he had to do some big time damage control. He got up and held his ears to show his apology

“Sorry bhai...i was just joking...she is too mature for me...though she is gorgeous beyond a doubt, i think she will eat me alive if I even approach her...” he said as arnav smirked at his brother words...he agreed with him 100%

“Yes she will...now get back to your books...you have your final's in just a month...so get studying!” arnav said as he ruffled his brother's unruly hair..

“Life is so unfair bhai...i have to study while you get to party...kya din aa gaye hai (what days have come)!” akash said dramatically as arnav said a quick goodbye and left for the party...he was already very late and he had to pick up sheetal on the way.

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

“What time will you be back?” Garima asked khushi as she spritzed some Escada..she picked up her clutch and checked if everything was in there “Uh...don't know mamma...i personally don't want to stay there for more than half an hour...” khushi said with a grimace as Garima shook her head

“Khushi...why are you even going if you don't like him” Garima said as khushi sighed “for professional reasons mamma...i don't like Mr Jha at all...but he is a good friend of Arnav...i don't want things to go sour if i'm rude to him on personal level as well” khushi said dabbing a bit of lipgloss before stepping into her heels

Garima looked on concerned at her as she pondered over what khushi just said “Hmm...you are right...but i fail to understand how someone like Arnav is friend's with that vile man” she said as khushi nodded

“I know mamma...but who cares! Mr Raizada might have his reasons to keep him close...plus why do you assume that Mr Raizada is the epitome of perfection and won't have any flaws like choosing bad people for his friends?” khushi said with a sarcastic edge in her voice to which her mother laughed

“Are you jealous my bacchi?” Garima asked her as khushi gave her a hard glare “Why would I be jealous mamma? Sing his praises all day and night...i don't care...i just don't think that you should always stick to your first impression about anyone” she said as she stood in front of the mirror for one last time

“Hmm....i suppose...but I have failed to find a single fault in him during the times I have met him...so unless I do...I'll stick to my opinion of him” she said with a smile as khushi rolled her eyes “Sure mamma...whatever you say” she said as she leaned down to kiss her before leaving for the party....she felt like driving today!

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

“Are you sure she is coming to the party?” a rough voice spoke on the phone as the other man whispered back “Yes...its confirmed...she should be here any minute” he said as the voice on the other end took a deep breath

“Great...i think we can use this to our advantage...i'll call you back in a few minutes to explain the plan” he said as the other man nodded, his palms clammy with the thought of once again doing something unsavory for the man on the phone...

He ended the call and wiped his forehead as he took a huge gulp of his drink...he kept the crystal glass down as he walked back into a brightly lit corridor of Club Viver...he smiled at the familiar faces as he made his way inside the VIP section and picked up another glass of scotch from a passing waiter

He sat down on one of the plush chairs and removed his phone from his pocket...he waited.

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

“You know its in fashion to be late right?” Sheetal asked arnav as she adjusted her very short red dress before getting out of their car. Arnav turned towards his driver and told him that he will be out in half an hour max “Oh c'mon Arnav...you were not serious about that were you!” sheetal exclaimed as arnav gave her a hard look

“Look sheetal...i told you earlier as well....i don't like Shaym Jha...and i cannot stay at this party for more than a few seconds...half an hour of my time is more than what that man deserves” he said as he pulled his jacket together and started walking towards the red carpet laid out for the guests.

Sheetal pouted at arnav's very cold demeanor but forgot about everything as the press started clicking their pictures... “Oh..ok fine baby...as you wish” she said as she laid a peck over his cheek and entwined her fingers with his while they walked towards the entrance of Club Viver

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

“May I say you look absolutely ravishing today my dear” Shyam slurred giving Khushi an appreciative look, making her cringe. She was mentally berating herself for wearing this dress but unfortunately she had yet to unpack properly and this was the only thing she could find at the last minute suitable for this party (see pic below)

“Well, this is probably the 10^th time you have told me this Mr Jha...seems like your alcohol level is climbing at top speed” she said sarcastically and turned around trying to catch some known person's eye...a task she had been doing for the past 15 minutes that Shaym had stuck to her like a leech.

“Oh....your words stab my heart Khushi...you do have a very sharp tongue...sharp enough to cut maybe? Sharp and beautiful..” he started saying when khushi narrowed her eyes “Please stop commenting on my tongue Mr Jha...you will never be fortunate enough to get with 10 feet of it” she said as Shyam's eyes widened..but a deep voice from behind made them both turn around at the same time

“Looks like its slice and dice time!” Arnav said as he glanced at the purely irritated and completely embarrassed faces in front of him. 

When he had walked into the club 10 minutes ago...Sheetal had gotten herself busy with her other friends leaving a visibly happy Arnav behind

He himself was trying to spot Shyam to say the customary hello and then leave, and he did only to find himself stop and admire the woman talking to him, she had her back to him, but as she flicked her long gorgeous hair over one shoulder...something about the gesture made it look very familiar.

As he walked towards the duo, his eyes appreciatively took in the woman's perfect body fitted to a tee in a figure hugging lace dress...the sheerness of it and the underlaying skin colored fabric..leaving little to the imagination

But the shocker for him was when he caught the tail end of their conversation...Sharp tongue indeed...it hadn't surprised him that the damsel who was currently annoyed with Jha was none other than Ms Gupta herself

“Arnav!!” Shyam said as she lunged forward to hug him, giving Arnav a waft of his strong smelling alcohol breath. He pulled back quickly from the hug and said a quick “Hey Shyam..” before turning his attention to Khushi.

He was momentarily left tongue tied as he took in her dark kohl lined eyes and pouty red lips...plus the dress she wore left him wondering more about her...till now he had only seen her in office wear and formals...this...this was totally new for him.

“Mr Raizada...I wondered if you were going to show up!” she said as he raised his eyebrow....he picked up a glass of champagne from a passing waiter and looked back at her “You knew i was coming?” he asked her as she shrugged her shoulders

“Well...after Mr Jha mentioned how close you both were...i assumed you will be here” she said as he looked at her uncertainly, but their conversation was cut short by their only spectator who suddenly did not want this talk to continue “Uh...i have to go and meet some people...Khushi, why don't you come with me?” he asked her with a smile

Arnav saw the way Khushi hesitated to go with him and stepped forward before wrapping his arm around her waist “Oh...I think I should take Ms Gupta to meet some of our partners?” he said as khushi sighed in relief as shyam looked pointedly at arnav's arm

“Yes...off course...Uh...i'll see you both later” he said and walked away towards the other side of the club “He is so strange!” khushi said as arnav chuckled besides her, his arm still holding her close to himself...a fact that both realized at the same time and literally sprang apart as if burned

“Uh...yes...he is strange...and the only reason he ran away like that was because he knew I was going to tell you the truth” he said as khushi raised one perfectly arched eyebrow...the sudden loss of warmth in the back of her mind “the truth?” she asked him to which he nodded

“Yes...the truth....that i hate that man's gut!” he said as khushi's mouth opened in a perfect 'O' “Really? But he told me how close you both were...” she said as arnav made a sour face “Close? Me and him?” he asked with a sardonic twist to his mouth as Khushi's eyes turned stormy

“Why that lying bastard..” she said making arnav raise his eyebrows further more...she looked at his horrified expression and smiled “What? He told me that you guys were very good friends and had done a lot of work together...so i thought professionally it would be very wrong of me to not attend an event he personally invited me to” she said as arnav shook his head

“Oh i'm not surprised he lied to you...Shyam Jha is an expert at this...the only way he gets his way is through lies...” he said as khushi gave Shyam's barely visible back a disgusted look “Yeah...i have dealt with him earlier...and i know exactly the kind of person he is!” she said as she saw a blur of red come towards them and literally stick to arnav's right side

“Baby....who is this? Won't you introduce us?” sheetal asked a very irritated arnav; he was just about to say something when Sheetal held her hand forward to khushi “Hi...i'm Sheetal kapoor...Arnav's girlfriend...and you are?” she asked khushi who took a second to give her a once over before shaking her hand and smiling

“Oh hi...i'm Khushi Gupta...Arnav's partner in GR...” she said as Sheetal squealed “Oh my God! You are Khushi Gupta!!...Gosh i''ve been meaning to meet you since the time i heard you were going to work with Arnav” she said as khushi stepped back from her overwhelming response to meeting her

“Oh...thats great...its really good to meet you Sheetal” Khushi said trying to think of one reason why Arnav was with this woman...and as always she came to the same conclusion she always did...all men think of only one thing...and Arnav singh Raizada was nobody different, Khushi thought eyeing Sheetal's ample bosom and killer body

“Same here...but listen....I really need to ask you something” Sheetal said as khushi looked at her “Are you still dating Sujoy Banerjee?” she asked her with a dreamy look which arnav did not fail to notice...

What! That same name...he had asked Lavanya that day who this dude was when she had looked at him with wide unbelieving eyes and had only said one thing 'I don't believe you don't know him! Which rock are you living under ASR?'!..he had meant to search him on the internet...but had forgotten

He saw khushi's eyes flash red before she took a calming breath and pursed her lips...he knew that look...she was not happy. He looked at his totally clueless girlfriend and tried to ease the situation before it worsened

“Oh uh...Sheetal? Shyam was saying he wanted to show you the VVIP lounge...apparently some big Bollywood celebs are up there...maybe you should join in too...you can discuss your plans for that story you were writing?” he asked her as her face brightened

“Really? Oh that's great...who's there? Is Ayubji here? I always wanted him to direct my movie” she said as she said a quick 'see ya later' to khushi before waking briskly towards Shyam while a smiling waiter came towards khushi “Mam...Mr Jha sent this drink over for you...its a special Appletini” he said as khushi shook her head

“I'm sorry....i'm driving...and i've already had two drinks...so my limit for today is over” she said as the waiter nodded and turned away hesitantly...arnav looked up to see Khushi taking a deep breath “Looks like this is a tough night for you” he said as she nodded

“Yeah...you can say that....i just hope it doesn't get worse” she said as she saw another couple approaching them...her father and his wife “Khushi beta...you are looking gorgeous...I've been waiting for you since a while now!” Arun mehra said as khushi did the customary air kissing...and let him give her a side hug...she knew she could not show her indifference in public

She looked at monica who looked much younger than the time she had married her father...thanks to plastic, she thought as she gave a tight smile to her “Khushi...how lovely to see you...Arun's been talking about you non-stop for the past couple of days now...he is soo happy to have you back!” she gushed as she came forward to hug her

“Yes, its grand seeing you too” khushi said as she thrust her hand forward for a mere handshake making it very clear that there was no way she would hug her....she got a small satisfaction seeing a bit of red tinge Monica's perfect cheekbones..but she composed herself very quickly before anyone could notice

“You should come over sometime...” she said as they shook hands, khushi gripping her's a bit too tightly for monica to understand what the younger girl was trying to convey “Uh....ok...I uh...have some people to meet” she said as she went on her tiptoes to kiss her husband before leaving the other three

“Arnav...good to see you out and about....i hardly see you for these things” he said as arnav gave him a small nod...he could cut the tension in the room with a butter knife “Yes...i do come out now and then...but i'm a pretty private person” he said as arun smiled

“Off course..its always good to be private and have some time to yourself....especially in this busy life” he said as khushi turned her icy glare towards her father “Oh, that's fancy coming from you....when did you believe in privacy? What with your habit of washing your dirty laundry in the open...” she said caustically before turning around a walking out if the room....she had enough for one night.

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

Arnav saw khushi briskly walk away from the two of them, leaving Arun mehra very flustered in front of him...her outburst did not surprise him anymore...even though he hardly knew the girl..he just knew that when her father was in the frame, she was nothing short of a live wire

He said a quick goodbye to Mr Mehra whose entire face was blooming red and walked towards the exit he had seen khushi take. When he reached the now deserted reception area he saw her fidgeting with her clutch.

“I don't suppose you have a genie in there?” arnav asked her as she suddenly turned around with a startled expression “Oh...Mr Raizada...n..no i was looking for my valet ticket...i'm leaving” she said as arnav nodded “Yep..i figured..” he said as khushi closed her eyes and turned back towards him

“Listen...do you want to go for a coffee or something...I mean...i just can't go home right now...and some company would be great” she said as arnav raised his eyebrows...he was about to say something when khushi slapped her forehead

“Shit..i'm so sorry for asking you this...i totally forgot you came here with your girlfriend” she said as arnav shook his head “No..no...listen, i'd love to join you...in fact i was leaving myself..is it ok if we take your car? I'll leave mine for Sheetal...she's going to stay her till the club closes anyways” he said as khushi smiled uncertainly

“Are you sure? You don't have to do it out of pity you know....” she said as arnav laughed...his entire face transforming with the action

“Are you serious? Me take pity on you? I don't think that will ever happen...lets just go Khushi...i mean...Ms Gupta” he said as khushi smiled at him warmly “You can all me Khushi...Ms Gupta was getting a bit too stifling!” she said as arnav smiled back

“And you can call me Arnav...” he said as Khushi nodded and gave her parking ticket to the valet. Both waited in comfortable silence as arnav suddenly spoke up “By the way...i know this is out of the blue....but who is Sujoy Banerjee?” he asked her

He expected her to blow a fuse on his question, but was pleasantly surprised when she gave him a small smile “I'll tell you if you tell me something i want to know” she said as arnav nodded and waited for her question “Does Sheetal really write?” 

Khushi & Arnav's Outfits