Chapter 26

“Don't forget now....you can live even after death!” Akash shouted in a sing-song way as the freshers looked at him weirdly...it was 'Give something Back' day at uni and all the students were busy with a lot of different charities and help organizations that were participating for the event.

Akash looked around and spotted Payal coming towards them and nudged his friend to start with their practiced speech...he looked sideways to see Amandeep busy staring at a cute freshmen who was checking out the fliers at their table...he rolled his eyes and stepped on his feet only to hear him yell loudly

“Dude! What the...” Amandeep said as Akash gestured towards Payal who was just a few feet away...Amandeep nodded and started speaking in a really loud voice “Yaar Akash! Not everyone is as noble as you, you know....giving away your eyes....and plus you are also thinking about organ donation?...tu iss dharti ka hi nahi hai [Your out of this world]” Amandeep said with a deep sigh as payal stopped right in front of their table

“Chal yaar...aisa nahi sochte [c'mon dude...you shouldn't think like that..]” Akash said as he pretended to have spotted payal just then “Payal...how are you? Would you like to see some brochures?” he said in a soft polite voice as payal gave him a small smile and picked up a leaflet, making akash hi-fi in his head

“Uh...you have donated your eyes?” she asked him, impressed with the nobel act that akash seemed to have done....being a biology student and having an interest in medicine, Payal respected people who were selfless enough to do something for others after their death...she smiled at Akash as he seemed to be uncomfortable about her question

“I understand Akash...very few people are like you who do such generous acts and then keep mum about it...its something to be proud about” she said giving him a genuine smile as Amandeep came right in front of her “Haan Payalji...Akash has donated his eyes! And thats not all...he will be going for organ donation as well....” he said as payal looked on with interest.

“And by 'organ' donation, i mean everything....every part of his body......even his....you know....I mean why should such a huge asset go to waste after his death na....his legend will remain...Aaahhh...” Amandeep shouted as he felt Akash crushing his feet with his heavy duty timberlands

“What Amandeep means to say is that, every part of my body should be used to give a new life to someone else...wouldn't it be wonderful if some part of yourself remains alive even after your pass away....and help in making someone else's life beautiful” he asked with such heartfelt emotions that payal slowly nodded and squeezed his hand

“Its a wonderful thought Akash....and people should take your example and follow you....I have myself opted for eye donation and will definitely go for organ donation too....” she said with a dimpled smile as Akash felt his heart melting...he did feel guilty somewhere inside...but looking at the gorgeous woman in front of him made him sigh and forget about his guilt for a second

“Thats great Payal...we need more people like you” he said as took his phone out and held it out to her “Do feed in your number, i'll let you know who to contact for organ donation, if you like that is” he said as payal looked on uncertainly for a minute before taking it from him and punching in her number....she gave it back to him and said a quick goodbye before leaving them looking at her retreating back

“Bhai! Bhabi is too good!” Amandeep said with a huge smile as Akash kept a hand on his heart and sighed “Yep...that she is” he said as he kept on looking till she vanished from his sight....he then quickly saved her number before calling another number “Haan...we are done...come and handle your stall now...” he said as he put his hand around Amandeep's shoulder “Good thing i came to know about her donating her eyes man!” he said as Amandeep looked on

“But how did you know?” he asked him as Akash shrugged “I have my spies...arre...I'm a Raizada man....I got the student office peon to check out her application....I had to get my facts right na bacchu...so that's where i found out about it...yaar, you need to fill out these things....and voila! We got the perfect opp today!” he said as Amandeep saluted him “Your'e the boss bhai!” he said as Akash slapped him on his back and walked towards his car, whistling away.

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

“Sir, Detective Prabhakar Naik is here to meet you?” Shashi looked up as his PA walked inside his cabin with a confused look....“Yes, do send him in...I forgot to tell you about him....I don't have any meeting till 4 right?” he asked as his PA shook his head “No sir...none till 4...Do you want to meet him here or one of the meeting..” he started asking when Shashi shook his head “No, i'll meet him here only” he said as his PA nodded and went outside to get the detective

Shashi closed down his laptop and thought about the phone call he had recieved on the way to his office....Detective Naik had called him to meet him up for the Arun Mehra murder....he said it was standard procedure to get everyone connected to Arun Mehra for the case...when Shashi had asked him how he would be connected, the detective had simply told him that he was bought in for Arun's role in Gupta Mills...so his statement too is imperative.

His thoughts were broken by the loud knock on his cabin door....he sat up straight as the detective walked in and shook hands with Shashi “Mr Dinkaran...thank you for meeting me at such short notice...” the detective said as Shashi shook his head “No please, anything I can do to help out...please, have a seat” he said gesturing towards the chairs at his table

“Thanks...so you must be wondering why I am here and why I need your statement” Detective Naik said as Shashi nodded “You see Mr Dinkaran...when Arun Mehra was removed from Gupta Mills on charges of fraud, he had confided in his wife Monica that Mrs Gupta had always wanted to remove him and bring you on board...since quite some time actually...” he said and waited for Shashi to react but continued as Shashi looked on blankly

“He had also told her that Mrs Gupta had had some meetings with you and had approached you for this role...and that the fraud he was accused of was planned by them to bring you on” he said as Shashi sat back and contemplated his words “So, I need to know from you about how much of this is true” he said as Shashi sighed

“Detective....I have known Mrs Gupta since a while now....I will be very honest with you that she had met me personally before officially calling me on for this role post Arun's dismissal...but she had never approached me for the job while he was on it....I was only asked to consider this role, a few days after Arun left....now if they were planning on getting me from before that is a mystery to me too...I only got their call later” he said as detective Naik nodded

“Ok...fair enough...but had you ever met Arun Mehra before?” he asked Shashi who shook his head “Not personally, no....I knew about him...but nothing on a personal level....I have never met him” he said in a serious tone as the detective jotted something down... “Ok, how about any of the other family members? His daughter? Ex-wife, Wife?...” he asked as he observed Shashi who pursed his lips

“Look detective...why don't you come to the point...what do you want to ask me? No, I had not met anyone of them except Mrs Shalini Gupta...that's it...” he said as the detective leaned forwards “Mr Dinkaran, please don't take my questioning the wrong way...I'm just asking standard questions...” he said as Shashi nodded and sighed

“You are right...please, continue” he said as the detective smiled “Just one more question...how close are you to the family now? The Gupta's I mean..” he asked as Shashi narrowed his eyes “What are you implying detective?” he asked in a calm voice as the detective shrugged “I only ask this question since you are staying with them at present...” he said as Shashi leaned forward

“In their guest house, till my permanent accommodation is sorted out....and I'm living there with my family....Shaliniji was generous enough to offer me their guesthouse...are your questions answered now?” he asked him as the detective nodded “Yes...more or less....for now, this is all i needed....I'll let you know if I need to meet you again” he said as Shashi nodded stiffly and got up to see the detective out....something did not feel right with his questioning....he felt it was necessary that he speak to Shalini Gupta about this.

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

“It was such a pleasure to meet and discuss this with you Mr d'Blanc, i'm sure GR and Matrion will do great things together” Khushi said pleasantly as the old patriarch of the well known French designer brand enveloped her in a hug and kissed her on her hand “Pleasure is all mine, ma cherie...and please, call me Armand......just like Arnav over here” he said winking at Arnav who stood stiffly looking at the old man flirting with Khushi

“Off course Armand...we look forward to visiting you in Paris soon” she said as Armand smiled jovially “I will look forward to it my dear....do ask your people to send in your travel details, I will have everything arranged for you” he said as he turned to Arnav and shook his hand “I expect great things from both of you Arnav...till we meet again” he said as he waved at them and left

“I can't believe the nerve of that guy....you can be his grand daughter! And why the hell was he comparing my name with his !” Arnav said in an irritated tone as Khushi hit him lightly on his arm “Seriously Arnav...shame on you....he wasn't flirting with me...he's French! They all are like that” she said as Arnav scowled at her making her smile

“Ok leave it now...lets get going, We need to brief the team” she said picking up her purse when Arnav's hand stopped her “Sit for a few minutes Khushi...we hardly get to spend anytime to together” he said as khushi smiled warmly at him and placed her palm over him, it had been three days since the mini-theatre incident and they had not got even a minute to spend together “I know...but think what this deal will mean for us Arnav!” she said as arnav grinned at her excitement

“Yes, it will be a defining moment for GR...but lets take small steps ok, I'll ask Lavanya to start planning for our Paris trip” he said as Khushi slapped her head “Dammit!” she said as Arnav looked up “What?” he asked her in concern as she pursed her lips “We can't leave the country Arnav....not till the investigation is still on” she said as Arnav cursed under his breath

“Don't worry about it...i'll see what I can do...” he said as he started dialing a number when a very familiar but unwelcome voice interrupted them “Fancy meeting you both here!” Shyam said as he strolled towards them, his voice sounding too loud in the quite restaurant

“Shyam...” Arnav said as he got up and stood in front of Khushi who was looking on in disdain towards the approaching man “Arnav....listen man , I'm very sorry about the other day....I know I went overboard with everything and...” he said as he walked around arnav and faced Khushi who was looking anywhere but at him

“And i'd like to apologize for it....to both of you....but especially you Khushi, I am really very sorry” he said as Khushi slowly got up and picked up her purse “I don't care for your apology Shyam because what you said that day did not make a difference to me...now if you don't mind we are leaving” she said as she stepped towards arnav who held her by her waist

But was stopped short by Shyam who came and stood in front of the two “Come on guys...these things happen...we work together...I can't have you upset with me Khushi and you too Arnav” he said as Arnav's hand held on tighter to khushi “I believe Khushi has already answered you...now please move” he said with barely controlled anger as Shyam stepped away

“I just hope that this will not be awkward at the Fashion Week...I mean we will be in the same room a lot of the times....you are planning on attending the events right?” Shyam asked as Arnav and Khushi continued walking away from him and towards the exit...making Shyam grin behind them “See you soon guys” he said in a soft whisper before going back to his table with a skip in his step.

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

It has been fifteen minutes since they had left the restaurant and Khushi had hardly spoken a word to Arnav...deciding to leave her alone for a bit, he had made his calls and had spoken to the commissioner to arrange for their temporary permission to visit out of the country.

Once he had got the assurance that it will be arranged on diplomatic grounds and that it wouldn't be a problem if their visit is for less than a week, did Arnav take a breath of relief. He immediately called Lavanya and got her to check on clearance for his private jet; since it was only a week before their planned meeting with D'Blanc in Paris...He wondered if they could squeeze in a day or two to south of France...but he would have to get that cleared with Khushi first.

He glanced at Khushi who seemed to be in a world of her own...she had not admitted it, but what Shyam had said and insinuated that day had really hurt her a lot...if only he could get that Slimeball alone, he would teach him a lesson and make sure he never approaches Khushi again...the possessive and protective feelings she aroused in him surprised him as he still did not know what to name this thing between them..if only Khushi will let him.

“Khushi?” Arnav said softly, only to have her say a "Hmm...” while still staring outside “Are you ok? Do you want to go home?” he asked her as she turned towards him with a confused look “Why would I go home? Its only 4...we need to brief the teams first...and now that you have got us permission, we really need to work round the clock to get our side of the proposal up” she said as Arnav nodded, intrigued that she seemed to have followed his one-sided conversation,

“Yes, I know...but you just seemed a bit tired and...” he said as Khushi gave him a small smile and squeezed his hand “I'm fine Arnav....I know what you are thinking but trust me, i'm ok....” she said as Arnav squeezed her hand back and pulled her closer to him...Khushi sighed as Arnav's arm's enveloped her small body providing the warmth she desperately needed

She had missed being with him....and these three days after what they had shared at her house,was making it difficult for both of them to be apart....but work and this new project had left them exhausted and overworked making it impossible for them to be together....she leaned more into him as he held on tighter, his lips caressing the gentle curve of her neck as she smiled

“Arnav....stop....we are approaching the office building” she said as she closed her eyes at the exquisite feelings his kisses were creating in her body “Khushi....its been so long...I haven't even kissed you properly” he said as she turned her face and kissed him chastely on his lips “I know....but soon...ok” she said as she pulled away from him and smiled at him warmly as the car rolled into the imposing R&S building making Arnav groan at his unfulfilled desire.

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

“Great! So, I guess we are all on the right path...lets get this thing rolling...” Khushi said enthusiastically as she moved away from the presentation board as Arnav took her place “I think Ms Gupta has given you all a very good understanding for what we are in for....so I expect great things from you guys...starting tomorrow, prioritize your work and make sure you give your 100% to this project....this literally is make or break for GR” he said as everyone nodded and got up

“See you all tomorrow guys” Khushi said as she gave a look towards Arnav before stepping out of the conference room with Aman....she went straight to her cabin and started gathering her stuff when she got a text from Arnav 'Don't go yet...its still early....come up to the PH'....she felt her heart thudding loudly at the possibility of finally being alone with him....she quickly got everything ready and texted a quick 'K, c u there' and walked out of her cabin with a smile

She pressed the button and swiped the card to the Pent house and waited till the lift reached the top floor...she got out and walked towards the huge door with her key when the door opened...she smiled as Arnav took her hand and pulled her in, immediately wrapping his arms around her from the back making her sigh in pleasure

“Now this is more like it” he said as she leaned back further into him and wrapped her arms around his...she turned her head to take in his handsome features as her heart thudded in anticipation...she twisted in his arms to face him as her hands trailed along his shoulders to reach his neck...she closed her eyes as she waited for arnav to kiss her...but as she felt his breath close to her lips...she heard a loud 'Ping' from the kitchen making her jump in fright

“Thats the oven” Arnav said as he kissed her quickly on her forehead before rushing off into the kitchen... “Make yourself comfortable khushi...i've chilled some wine...help yourself” he said as Khushi looked on suspiciously at him rustling about in the kitchen “Are you cooking Arnav?” she asked him as she kicked off her heels and took off her jacket...she padded towards the wine chiller and poured two glasses of wine

She picked up the glasses and walked to the kitchen to see various pots and pans covered and laid out on the table...while arnav was busy with removing something from the oven “Lasagna...and no, I did not make it...I asked my cook to prepare everything and keep it ready...wanted to surprise you” he said as Khushi laughed in excitement and helped him set the table

“This is so sweet Arnav..thank you” she said as she wrapped her hands around him and laid a kiss on his jumper covered back “You needed this Khushi...and you need to leave me now unless you want me to make a meal out of you” he said teasingly as she quickly left him and sat at the table while giving him a shy smile

Once they finished the food...Khushi helped in cleaning up before both of them took some coffee and walked to the beautiful balcony overlooking the city of Mumbai....the calm breezy evening felt wonderful and the peaceful atmosphere made the setting very romantic...Arnav sat down on the large lounger and pulled khushi over to him...she snuggled into his warmth as both stared at the late evening lights on the skyline

“Khushi?” arnav asked her as she turned to him and smiled softly “How are you?” he asked as she she looked on quizzically...of all the questions he could ask...he asked the most absurd one “Huh? What do you mean? I'm fine...” she said as arnav sighed “No Khushi...you are not...” he said burying his nose in her fragrant hair which she had let loose from the tight bun

“I know you are keeping too many things to yourself...and then this added stress of work....i really want to know...how are you?” he asked as she shuddered in his arms....he tightened his hold on her as she wrapped her arms around his and leaned back....a lone tear falling from her eye... "I'm not fine Arnav....i'm scared” she said as he tilted her face towards him and rubbed his thumb across her cheek...wiping off the tear stain

“I know you are...and I promise everything will be ok....” he said as she nodded and cupped his cheek “I know arnav...I am scared.....as if all of this is an illusion, everything that is happening around me seems to surrel....but when i'm with you, its all real....very real” she said as Arnav pulled her face closer to kiss her tenderly.

He sucked leisurely on her plump bottom lip as she shifted to sit comfortably in his lap....she held onto him fiercely as his tongue urged her lips to open, deepening the mind-drugging kiss....she moaned in as he sucked on her tongue making her press herself firmly against him, her body moulded to his.

The tender slow kiss had turned into a passionate duel between their tongues as each sought the solace they found in the other's arms..they continued to duel with want as their bodies heated up with pent up desires...when they pulled away a few minutes later, both were short of breath but the blatant desire in their eyes matched...making them lunge once again for each other.

Arnav's hand traveled beneath her shirt as he caressed her soft belly, making her quiver in need....she plunged her hands in his hair, twisting her fingers in the silky strands as he shifted his mouth to her neck, biting and licking her soft spots.... “I want you soo much Khushi...” Arnav said in a hoarse voice as Khushi cupped his cheek and pulled him in for another kiss “Me too....” she said as Arnav laid her down on the lounger, his body pressing her's down over the soft cushioned seat while they continued to kiss

“Arnav.....” Khushi said as she realized that if they did not stop now, there was no going back....Arnav seemed to understand her hesitation as he gentled his kisses before reluctantly getting up...he pulled her up gently and kissed her on her forehead as she hugged him tightly....not wanting to let go “We...this...” Khushi said as Arnav smiled in her hair

“I know...its ok....you need to go home...” he said as she pulled back from the hug and caressed his stubbled cheek “You know I want this too right? But...I haven't told anyone at home...and its late...things will get awkward...” she said as he laid a finger on her lips “You don't need to explain Khushi...its ok....I want our first time to be special...and though I can't wait to be with you....in every way, we'll wait till the time is right....” he said as she kissed him lovingly on his cheek

“I have to go now...” she said as she got up but arnav pulled her back making her gasp as she landed back on his lap “Stay for a bit...its not thaat late” he said as he nuzzled in her hair “I promise, i'll be a good boy” he said as she giggled...settling herself comfortably between his legs, she closed her eyes as he held her against his beating heart...finding peace and calm amongst all the chaos in her life.

Chapter 25

Slightly Mature Content

“So, what do you think they will do now?” Monica asked as she drew lazy circles over the man's chest as they lay entangled with each other in the plush bed....her chin was resting over his muscled arm as he rattled the ice cubes in his whiskey glass “About what?” he asked her as he disentangled himself and got up from the bed before drinking the rest of the watered down whiskey

“You know about what...that b***ch Garima has a battalion of supporters behind her...whatever i say or do will never implicate her in the murder” she said as she sat on the bed with her back resting against its headboard “We need to do something...otherwise I will once again come under radar” she said as the man turned around and looked at her with angry eyes

“Just shut up Monica! You know you did not order that hit...God only knows who did! But whoever did it made life more of a hell for me...” he said as he paced around the room, his lithe body tensing up as his fists clenched by his sides “Your idiot of a husband was my one and only chance to get that witch off my case...but now...now I need to be very careful” he said as Monica laughed throatily

“You were such a fool darling! Trust me when i say this....Arun's disloyalty towards Khushi came with an expiry date....what ever work of yours he did, was only to get Khushi to either leave Gupta Mills or embarrass her enough to make people talk about it....he would have never supported you in harming her little ass in any.....uh....how do i say it? mortal way...” she said as the man grinned

“True...I knew that....but I was never behind her life anyways....and if anyday it would have come to that, I would not have been stupid enough to ask her father to carry it out for me...I would have done it myself and made him take the fall for it...” he said as Monica stretched her hands over her head and smiled at him

“Aren't you the clever one....but at present, your cleverness does not solve our problem...how do we work around this mess? We don't even know who the killer is....who the hell would benefit from Arun's murder?” she thought aloud as the man sat down on the edge of the bed and looked at her

“The culprit will be out soon....but for now, you are on high-radar....whatever plan Naik had to intimidate Garima backfired since that Raizada got involved” he said with disgust as Monica leaned towards him, her generous breasts spilling out of the sheet that had fallen from her upper body

“Now that boy is delicious...alas he is too infatuated with my step-daughter....” she said as the man caught her breasts harshly in his hands and squeezed “Oh, that he is....but not for long...now that I have no one to hatch my evil plans with, I think i'll have to go the criminal way...” he said as he latched his mouth onto her nipple and bit hard

Monica screamed in both pain and pleasure as she sunk her nails into him “Wh...what are you planning on doing?” she asked him as she moaned at the assault his tongue and teeth were creating on her body “Oh don't you worry your silly little mind over it...you just work on acting like the sad widow and leave the rest to me...Khushi Gupta will never know what hit her” he said menacingly as he brutally kissed her to shut her up from asking more questions.

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

“Khushi where are you taking me!” Arnav asked as khushi pulled him along the long corridor of the living room towards a an ornate staircase that ran downstairs “Oh come on Arnav...stop asking me questions....just follow me” she said as they started walking down the staircase into a wood lined room below

“Is this your basement?” he asked her as she nodded “Yep...not just a basement....come I'll show you” she said as they walked further into the room, through a door that opened into another room lined with glass walls and marble flooring “This is my bachelorrette pad!” she said proudly as Arnav looked around the room in awe

There was a huge snooker table in the centre of the room with lots of comfortable seating around it, a long bar lined one end of the room with an artificial waterfall spilling over the other, giving the whole place a mesmerizing feel; they walked further towards the other end of the room which opened into a huge floor to ceiling library with books of all kind with recliners around it.

Through another door they came to a room with a huge 64 inch LED TV with state of the art gaming equipment a a huge selection of games with many comfortable bean bags lying around the soft floor. Arnav looked at her in amazement as she smiled widely at him “This is not all” she said cheekily as she led him towards another side where a huge glass door opened up on sensors to lead them into a cooler section

“This is the gym” she said as they walked inside a state-of-the-art Gymnasium with the latest TechnoGym machines gleaming proudly, arnav had his eyes wide open as Khushi took him towards the steps that led them to a more warmer area which had two doors “This one leads to the Sauna and steam room....while this one..” she said opening the door “Leads to the indoor swimming pool...when its raining or something, we use this....plus its temperature controlled” she said excitedly as she shut the door and pulled him along with her

“Now one last thing that you just have to see” she said as she took a speechless Arnav trotting behind her “Is our movie theatre” she said with a flare as she opened the door and shut it behind them “I have more that 800 movies stacked along the walls across this room” she said proudly as Arnav admired the tastefully done up room...he eyed the comfortable looking lazy-boys and sat down in one, relaxing himself as the soft yellow lights gave the room a romantic feeling

“Well....aren't you going to say anything Mr Raizada?” Khushi asked him expectantly as he looked at her lazily “Uh....Khushi....is there more? Or is this the end of your wonderland?” he asked her and watched with amusement as her nose flared in anger “Excuse me! Not everyone gets to see this part of the house...I had this designed recently and have spent a lot of energy and effort into making this so perfect!” she said as Arnav smirked at her

“Is that so? Well...I did not know that Khushi Gupta was such a guy!” he said as Khushi's mouth opened up in a huge 'O' “What? All that you just showed me...Gym, Gaming zone, Snooker, this movie theatre....all this is what men fantasize to own....its the perfect bachelor pad!...so....i'm just wondering...” he said as she walked to him and pushed him back on the lazy boy making the chair stretch back with her hands on either side of the armrests

“Is that so Mr Raizada?...well then, if I am such a guy, would you react to me this way?” she asked as she sat herself on his lap and lazily trailed her long manicured finger from his forehead to his lips..she pushed herself more against him making the chair recline further....she felt Arnav's breath hitch as her finger trailed further down to his chest and stealthily towards his groin

“Tell me...would you?” she asked she leaned towards his ears, her breasts at eye-level with him as his body was further pushed over the comfortable plush chair....he groaned as she bit his ear seductively, making him grasp her waist tightly as his head dipped down to trails kisses over her exposed neck near her shirt opening “Never...” he rasped as his hands went down to cup her bottom tightly, moulding them in his hands.

Khushi felt her insides turn to liquid fire as arnav left open mouthed kisses along the column of her neck, he pulled her down to dip his tongue over the indent between her collar bone making her moan in want...she grasped his arms as she leaned down as he took her lips in a scorching kiss making her entire body melt over the sensual assault

She spread her fingers inside his dark hair as his hands slid over her sides before coming to rest over her straining breasts making her arch her back to enjoy the feel of his large hands cupping her “Arnavv...” she moaned as his fingers got busy slipping her buttons off till her lace covered breasts were within his grasp

Arnav grunted as she shifted over him, her feminity aligned right over his burgeoning arousal making him curse his lack of control....he slipped the last of her buttons before burying his face into the sweet valley between her perfect cleavage leaving kisses over it as her perfume wafted over him....his mouth could not resist swirling his tongue over one hard nipple as it strained against the cream lace making her clutch on to him helplessly

“Oh Gosh...Arnav...” Khushi said huskily as he continued kissing her, his hands roaming over her smooth back, finally coming to rest over the hook of her bra...as if waiting for her permission....she smiled as she took his lips again for a mind numbing kiss giving him all the permission he needed...he quickly undid her bra before flinging it over them making khushi gasp out as his shirt rubbed against her sensitized tips

Arnav broke the kiss as he held khushi away from him for a few seconds to gaze at her “Perfect” he said taking in her flushed body....her peachy pink nipples stood erect as his eyes lingered over them, khushi could not help but think of him as boy who was being served his favorite candy...she sighed as his rough palm cupped her “You are so beautiful khushi” he said as he pulled her back towards him, his hands squeezing her roundness making khushi bite her lips from moaning out loud

Arnav felt her hands move restlessly over his shirt as she tried to slip her hands inside his shirt, untucking it from his pants, he pulled her more towards him as his mouth closed over her hard peak making her moan loudly as she touched her forehead to his, her long hair falling gracefully over them....arnav cursed as her hand settled over his arousal, squeezing him over his pants while her other hand trailed over his abs inside his shirt, her nails scratching him in its wake

“Khushi....don't...” he said hoarsely as she continued pressing down on his hard member while she pinched one nipple over his muscled chest.... “Dammit...” he rasped as she threw her head over giving him a perfect view of her upper body writhing in desire making him want to take her right then and there....and they would have probably continued had it not been for a sound coming from outside the mini theatre.

“Shit” Khushi said as both realized at the same time the position they were in; they were in Khushi's home...with her family in the house...she leapt up from his lap at the same time he got up to tuck in his shirt...he helped her find her bra in the dim light and looked on in amazement as she wore it quickly before donning her shirt haphazardly over it...buttoning it in record time.

Both hardly had a second to check if everything was ok before the door opened up and in came Payal with her head swaying to the music from her headphones...the lyrics of which were being belted by her before she came at a sudden halt to find the two people looking at her awkwardly.

“Oh...i'm sorry” she said eyeing Khushi warily before her gaze went to the handsome man next to her...both looked throughly bothered as they looked at her, not sure what someone should say in such situations... “Umm....I did not know anyone was here...uh....carry on...” she said as she started walking back out before khushi stopped her

“No...Payal...I mean, I was just showing Mr Raizada the basement....we are done here...did you come down to watch a movie?” Khushi asked her as she eyed the DVD in her hand, she smiled at Payal who gave her an odd look before giving a quick glance to the man named 'Mr Raizada' who was suddenly very busy with his phone 'So lame!' she thought as she nodded at Khushi

“Uh..yeah, its a rescue whale thing....need to do some work on it for uni....I thought i'll come by and watch it here....this place is awesome by the way” she said as she saw khushi look at the man pointedly “You don't mind me using it, do you?” she asked her as she smiled genuinely “No, off course not...you and your...brother right? You guys can come here anytime you want” she said as payal gave her a tight smile, still not sure what she had walked into

“Oohkay...great!” Payal said as Khushi started moving towards the door with arnav behind her...but stopped short making arnav bump into her from behind “Uh...sorry, where are my manners....Ar...I mean, Mr Raizada....this is Payal, Shashi Dinkaran's daughter...” khushi introduced them as arnav nodded politely...not really making any eye contact with Payal

“He knows my dad?” Payal asked Khushi as she nodded “Yes, Arnav is my partner at GR..he knows your dad pretty well” she said as Payal said a quick “Hmm...well, it was nice meeting you Mr Raizada” she said in a fake cheery voice to a stiff Arnav, which made Khushi hold back a laugh...they proceeded to walk right out of the mini theater after that leaving payal behind but turned around when they heard the door opening again.

“Uh...Khushi, I don't know if you know this...but your Shirt is buttoned up wrongly...” she said as she quickly shut the door making Khushi's cheek redden under arnav's amused gaze “What?” Khushi said as she re-buttoned her shirt while arnav looked on with interest

“I like that girl...she had spunk!” he said as she hit him on his arm “Shut up you cradle snatcher!” she said as he laughed at her comment “Really! That's the best you can come up with....she's not that young....at least she did not look it” he said pulling her leg as she pinched him “You better not notice her...or for that matter any other woman..understand!” she said as arnav put his arm around her shoulder “How can I, when i have you around me!” he said as she pushed his hands away

“Good...now act like my boring business partner....we are going up for dinner” she said as arnav said a quick “yes maam” and followed her through the basement up the stairs.... “Stop looking at me like that arnav!” she moaned as he raised his eyes “Like what?” he asked her as she turned around on the last step “Like your going to eat me” she said as he leaned forward “But that's what i want to do...eat you...and after that little nibble...i can hardly wait” he said as he left her breathing hard while he cooly made his way to the dining area.

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

“Where the hell is this girl?!” Shashi cursed under his breath as he tried payal's phone again while walking down the cobbled pathway that led towards the main mansion...Payal has texted him an hour and half ago that she was going over to the mansion to watch a movie in the mini theatre for academic purposes...he wondered what wonderful things they are teaching in college to students, that they are needed to watch a movie..whatever happened to books!

He punched in a reminder to get a DVD player as soon as possible for all future movie sojourns his kids needed...he did not want them spending too much time at the main house...somehow after the morning incident, he too wanted to stay away from there...best not to entertain thoughts which would never materialize he thought as he walked briskly up the path only to bump into someone

“Shashi!” arnav said as the older man smiled at him and gave him a quick handshake “Arnav...great to see you...” he said as Arnav nodded and smiled back “Yeah, you too...going for a walk?.Khushi just told me you guys are staying here for the time being....oh and I met your daughter too earlier” he said as Shashi nodded “yes, Shalini ji has been very generous with me and my family....i'm finalizing a deal for an apartment soon actually...we might move out in a month or so if everything works out” he said as Arnav smiled

“Thats great! If you need any help do let me know...I know a lot of Property guys...good ones...” Arnav said as Shashi thanked him “Ok, I gotta go...had come over for some work but got pulled into having dinner....a really large one!” he said as shashi laughed...He said a quick good night to Shashi before sitting in his car that the driver had got around the driveway.

Shashi sighed as he saw arnav's car moving away from his sight....he had an inking that something was going on between Khsuhi and Arnav...but it was not his place or right to say or think about it....he shook his head as he headed towards the mansion door, only for the door to be opened at the same time by a startled Garima

“Shashi?” she asked him, bewildered to find him standing on the steps as he looked a bit stunned to find her there “Uh...Garima...hi” he said as Garima smiled at him “Come in...did you need anything?” she asked him as he walked inside making sure he kept a large distance between them “Yes, I had come to get Payal...she is watching a moive in the theatre i suppose” he said as Garima smiled at him and nodded

“Yes, she came in earlier...why don't you sit down, i'll ask someone to let her know” she said as Shashi shook his head “No, please don't worry...i'll just call her” he said as he tried calling Payal again “It won't work....the signal...it doesn't reach the basement...please, come and sit down....it will only take a minute” she said as she went inside to ask one of the help to go and call Payal

She then walked back to where Shashi was still standing awkwardly “Will you like something to drink Shashi?” she asked him warmly only for him to shake his head “No thanks...just had my dinner...I warmed the soup up for Payal and then realized that she is still here...” he said as Garima looked on fondly “Uh...she drinks only soup in the evening...dieting and all that crap” he said as Garima burst out laughing

“I can imagine...Luckily Khushi was never into dieting....She can eat a whole house and still have place for more!” she said as Shashi joined in laughing with her....this felt so natural to him, both of them talking about their kids, berating them and loving them at the same time....he missed this....but he sobered up quickly as the reality of the situation hit him.

“You did not know about me, did you?” she asked him as he gave her a confused look “That I am Garima Gupta...Arun Mehra's...” she said as Shashi looked away “I could make out from your reaction today morning” she said as Shashi looked up at her face...she gave him a sad smile and sighed

“I understand Shashi...and its ok....its natural” she said as Shashi gave her a questioning look “I know I am a divorced widow...and its only natural that you would want to...” she said as Shashi felt horrified at her thoughts....is that what she thought had made him back away from her?

He knew they had both felt that instant attraction...and all that flirting he did with her...yes, he was terming it correctly now....had maybe made his intentions clear to her...and she had never backed away....giving him hope....but the reason he backed away himself was miles apart from the one she was thinking about....he wanted to correct her....he needed to correct her

“Garima...” he interrupted her only for her to step back a little “Please, don't try and explain....I don't know what i was thinking....but after a long time i felt like I had found a friend...but its totally understandably why you...” she started saying when Payal's footsteps came right behind her “Papa! Your'e here! I told you na, I'll come after the movie is over!” she said as Shashi was torn between answering his daughter and correcting Garima

“Uh Payal...It was late...and I did not want you walking back alone” he said as Garima looked away....her lips pursed as she tried to reign in her emotions “Arre baba! I would have called you na! Its only 9:30!” she said as she glanced at Garima “Thanks for letting me watch the movie aunty” she said as Garima smiled warmly at Payal “My pleasure beta, come anytime you want...you are more than welcome here” she said as she patted payal's cheek before turning towards Shashi

“And she can stay over anytime if it gets late...don't worry” she said to Shashi as he tried to catch her eyes....this was not right...she could not think this way about him....he had to explain to her “Papa! Where are you lost? Lets go now!” Payal said as she linked her arm with him “Thanks again aunty...i'll surely be using that awesome place soon!” she said as she pulled her father along with her...making Garima give him one more fleeting look before closing the door behind them.

Chapter 24

“Good morning!” a pleasant voice interrupted his walk as he turned around to see Garima walk up to him...he smiled at her warmly as he observed her in the early morning light; her hair had come astray from a tightly knotted bun, her simple salwar was muddy along with her hands, but her face seemed a lot more lively and glowing since the last time he had seen her...but more than that, she just looked all the more lovely.

“Good morning Garima...good to see you” he said as she stopped in front of him and smiled shyly “Yes, its a beautiful morning...I was just trimming the rose bushes, we expect a good bloom this season” she said pointing towards the rose garden...Shashi was surprised that she took personal interest in the vast gardens as well...but then she had told him of her love for gardening the other day

“That would be wonderful....Ah..Garima...”he said hesitantly as she looked at him with nod “Yes Mr Dinkaran” she said as Shashi burst out laughing “Please don't call me Mr Dinkaran Garima...I'm not that old...at least I hope i'm not....and a young woman like you calling me by my surnames just makes me feel really old!” he said as she too laughed with him

“I'm hardly young Shashi...I have a 28 year old daughter...” she said in a matter of factly way which had Shashi's thoughts on how wonderful his name sounded from her mouth take a u-turn and go back to the daughter part...she was married? But she did not wear any magalsutra or sindoor...and somehow she gave out vibes of not being married.

“Uh...I did not know you were married” he said as his enthusiastic voice from earlier took a slight dip...he looked on to see Garima fidget with her kameez and looked away “He passed away..my husband...actually we were divorced quite some time back and recently he passed away...you know about it” she said as Shashi looked on with relief and a bit of confusion

“Know about it? I don't understand” he said as Garima cleared her throat “You did not know that Arun Mehra was my husband right? I'm sure ma must have told you...if not, it was plastered across all the media...his m..murder that is” she said with a slight tremor as her eyes took on a glassy sheen...had she looked up at that point, she would have seen Shashi stagger back a few steps

She was Garima Gupta Mehra...why hadn't he realised this earlier! He knew Shalini Gupta's daughter's name was Garima...but it never struck him...or maybe he was so blinded by his own muddled feelings around this woman, that he never gave it a rational thought...she was Khushi's mother....in a way...his boss....what the hell was he doing!

“S...sorry...I..I'm still a bit of a mess...” she said as she swiped a finger under her eyes as Shashi stepped back...his earlier welcoming stance, now a bit weary “Shashi..is...is everything all right?” she asked him as he smiled at her “Off course...I...I need to get going...uh...I have an early meeting scheduled” he said as he turned to leave but stopped as Garima looked on with confusion

“Garima...i'm very sorry for your loss” he said as he placed his hand on her shoulder for a second before turning swiftly on his toes and walking towards the guesthouse...leaving Garima in a state of confusion as she watched him disappear around the bend.

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

“ASR? Should we proceed for the meeting?” Lavanya asked as Arnav looked up momentarily from his phone....he was contemplating texting Khushi since she had still not reached office...but then thought he should not be crowding here...but he could help worry about what was going on in her mind after last night...would she decide she did not want this anymore?

“Uh..yeah Lavanya...lets go” he said as he got up and wore his suit jacket....he gave a nod to Lavanya who was a little bit confused to see her boss's mood swings....just earlier in the morning when he had arrived he had said a cheery good morning to her..which he had never done before...and then, when she gave him the wrong coffee...he just shrugged and said...'it happens'...another thing he had never done before..

But now...he seemed a bit uneasy.... “Did you check with Mathur why Khushi's not in yet?” he asked her as she followed him towards the smaller conference room...since this was an internal discussion, they were using the smaller more personal and casually designed meeting room “Yes I did...he said she had a doctor's appointment in the morning...so she'll be coming in late” Lavanya said arranging the meeting notes in her folder

“What?” Arnav asked as he stopped abruptly making her nearly crash into him “Why is she at the doctors?” he asked Lavanya who looked on in confusion 'you should know romeo! Did you get her knocked up!' she thought with a giggle but kept a straight face as Arnav glared at her “Uh...I don't know ASR...i mean, it would have been too personal for me to ask that” she said as Arnav sighed and ran a hand through his hair “Fine..just ask aman to let you know once she gets here” he said before walking inside the meeting room

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

“....and since, the Gartner report speaks about the dip in the export business for India this year...we think....” the man presenting went on as Arnav's mind refused to register what was being said...he already knew all the statistics he was droning on about and his thoughts were too jumbled to pay any attention to him....Is she ok? Did she go to meet the doctor because of stress...he kept thinking when he picked up his phone again

He saw a message blinking and was relived to see that it was Khushi's...'Hey...sry running late, had some personal work...will be in office in 15' Arnav stared at the message and wondered why she did not tell him about her doctor's appointment...the thought irked him as he texted her back 'Ok, come and meet me when you here' He took a deep breath and counted the minutes for the meeting to get over...he was restless to see her and make sure she was ok.

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

“Maam...ASR has been asking about you” Aman said as soon as Khushi came inside her cabin...she took off her suit coat followed by her heels before settling herself down on her chair...she took a few sips of cool lemony water and then looked up to an anxious aman “Good afternoon to you too Aman!” she said as aman looked flustered...he felt like a yoyo between his two bosses.

“Good afternoon maam...uh, like i said...ASR was looking for you..” he said as Khushi looked up with a raised eyebrow “You already told me that Aman...i'll go and meet him..but first, can you please order me a chicken salad? I'm starving” she said as he nodded and quickly left her cabin while Khushi leaned back in her chair.

She knew that Arnav might be wondering where she was, but this was way too personal for her to tell him where she was....she smiled as she recalled the look on his face yesterday at the door as she was leaving...she felt a jolt go through her spine as she remembered their kisses from yesterday....thanks to which she had hardly slept a wink.

She knocked once on his door and entered, only to find his cabin empty....she walked to the bathroom and saw that it was open with no one inside..she wondered if he was out for a meeting...and since it was lunch time, his secretary also wasn't present outside to tell her...she sighed as started dialing Lavanya's number when the cabin door opened and Arnav walked in making her stand still

“Khushi?” Arnav said as the shock of seeing her in his cabin made him take a step back....he was just informed that she had reached office and was planning on going to meet her after dropping his stuff in his cabin, but when he had stepped inside his office, her scent had overridden everything...making him aware in a second that she was inside

“Arnav!” Khushi said with a smile as she walked towards him and gave him a quick hug...making him raise an eyebrow “I expected a little bit more than a hug Khushi...” he said with a smirk as his mood suddenly lifted on seeing her...he felt relieved that she seemed to be ok and her usual sunny self and most of all she definitely did not look like she was having second thoughts

“I told you Mr Raizada that we need to be professionals....so that means, no eyeing...no touching...except for casual hugs and hand shakes...and definitely No kissing...or anything else” she said counting them on her fingers...she suddenly felt arnav pulling her towards him.

His hands were on her waist as he bent his face dangerously close to her ears “And if i say Ms Gupta, that i do not agree to these terms...” he whispered as khushi felt herself melting into him but she quickly cleared her mind before trying to push him away, only to give up when his hands tightened more on her waist “There is no choice...we need to maintain a dist..” she said as he pulled her more close to himself and took her lips in a smoldering kiss, making her shut up

Khushi sighed in satisfaction as she crept her hands into his hair and held him tighter as he deepened the kiss, his teeth nipping her lips to open which she gladly did, only to taste him so very throughly that the kiss left them both panting and wanting for more.... “Arnav....we need to....” khushi said between kisses as arnav nodded and stepped back, breathing heavily as they both tried to gulp some air.

“I don't know how I can keep my hands off you Khushi....your terms suck!” he said as she giggled and laced her arm through his...she pulled him towards the couch and pushed him down on it before herself sitting next to him, her legs crossed over the other as she leaned towards him “These aren't terms Arnav...but we agreed to take this slow right?” she said as arnav shook his head

“Nope, you agreed to take this slow...if it was up to me, we'd both be on page three today morning!” he said as she smiled at him “This is new for me Arnav...you are a public figure...more than me...and your'e always in the public's eyes....Arnav after what happened with my dad and my family and both of us being in the limelight for this, the last thing i want is people gossiping and making up spicy stories on us...” she said as Arnav looked on in concern

“Arnav, please don't think that i'm not proud of being with you or that I feel awkward dating you openly...no, never! My only concern is that I don't want your family or mine to be put through more mudslinging...you heard what Jha said yesterday...people are talking about..” she started saying when arnav placed a finger on her lips “No Khushi...no one is thinking about you that way...don't listen to that b*****d Jha...he was just trying to rile you up” he said as Khushi leaned her forehead on his shoulder

“And I don't care what is being said...I don't give a damn what Monica or Sheetal are spewing....the truth will be out soon..we just need to be patient...but i understand your concern...your mother and nani too have been through a lot, I'll be glad to wait Khushi...but please don't ask me to keep myself away from you...its virtually impossible” he said as she reached up and kissed him on his cheek

“Thanks for understanding Arnav....I promise that once all this madness is gone, you won't be able to stop me from shouting this out to the world!” she said as Arnav pulled her closer to himself once again and kissed her soundly “Umm....I'll wait for that day” he said a huskily as khushi gave him a shy smile, her flushed face glowing

“Oh by the way, where were you this morning?” he asked her casually as she quickly looked down “Oh...juts at the doctor's...had gone for a routine check-up” she said as he nodded “Ok...Nothing to worry about right?” he asked her as she smiled shaking her head...truth is, she had gone for a casual check-up, but there were certain other things she had discussed as well...but there was no need to tell that to Arnav...at least not right now.

“Anyways, the detective is coming to my house today....he's supposed to take mamma's statement and all...thanks to you, we could delay this so much...now i feel mamma is well prepared and in a better frame of mind...plus i'll be there along with her” she said as arnav squeezed her hand “Do you want me to come?” he asked her when she hesitated before shaking her head “No...i'll be fine...plus nani will also be there” she said as she got up

“I gotta go now Arnav....I don't want Aman to come wandering here! Will you be in office later? I have a few meetings lined up after lunch” she said as he shook his head “No...i'm going for the show rehearsal after lunch, need to check on everything before the final show day after tomorrow” he said as khushi nodded “Ok then..i'll see you tomorrow” she said as she ruffled his hair and left his cabin, making him smile tenderly at her as he saw her leave.

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

“Mamma...are you still worried about the detective?” Khushi asked her mother in the evening as they sat sipping tea; the detective was due any minute and the anxiety in the Gupta household was climbing up every second with both Khushi and Shalini worried for Garima who seemed to have become paler as the day progressed.

“No Khushi....i'm fine....just have a slight headache” Garima said pressing her fingers against her temple as the door bell rang...Khushi got up to see who it was when her aunt's voice came through the living room “Rimmy...where are you?” Tripti said as she came across Khushi

“Maasi! You here?” Khushi asked as Tripti came and hugged her “Yes beta, ma told me about the detective coming in today...i felt it would be good if all of us were there by Garima's side...your uncle also wanted to come but was called off due to an emergency at the last minute” she said as Khushi smiled gratefully and led her to the sitting room

A few minutes later, Detective Naik showed up...he was not happy with the fact that Kushi's naani and maasi were present for the interrogation and made his displeasure known “I know you people have reach in higher places, but I cannot allow two people, totally irrelevant with this interrogation to sit through this” he said as Khushi held her hand up

“I don't see how my aunt and grandmother's presence will affect this 'interrogation' as you call it...and I don't think its against the law since we are in my house, not the police station” she said as the detective gave her a snide smile

“Oh we would have been at the police station had your Mr Raizada not interfered....Law cannot be bent for the privileged few you know” he said with a sneer as Khushi glared at him...but before she could say anything, another voice spoke up

“I agree...and right now what you are doing is very much beyond anything 'Lawful'....you know for a fact that Garimaji's name was taken by a woman who had all the reasons to kill Mr Arun Mehra....and yet instead of keeping an eye on her and interrogating her further on this, you waste your time trying to intimidate a woman who has always supported Arun Mehra and who would have not gained anything instead of more heartache from his death....is this not bending the law?...How much are you getting paid I wonder” Arnav said in an irate tone as the detective stood up flustered

“Mr Raizada...I did not know you were coming too...” he said as everyone in the room looked equally surprised “I was in the area and thought i'll come and see if everything was ok” he said looking at Garima who smiled at him gratefully “but looks like instead of asking the relevant questions, you are arguing about who should and should not be present here” he said looking squarely at the detective who looked away and cleared his throat

“I am only doing my duty...now if you all don't mind, i'd like to continue with the interrogation” he said as Arnav nodded as he stood leaning by one of the pillars...his eyes caught Khushi's questioning ones as he gave her a small smile and asked her to concentrate on what the detective was talking about

The interrogation surprisingly went on for only 20 minutes as opposed to 2 hours the detective had informed them of, Khushi suspected it was because of Arnav's presence that the detective only asked specific questions instead of probing where there was no need...once he took down Garima's statement and after a few more questions pertaining to Garima's personal life away from Arun Mehra, he seemed to be satisfied; he thanked the ladies and stood up to leave.

But just as he was leaving, he turned one last time towards Garima and regarded her with wary eyes “Just one more thing i'd like to know from you Maam, was there any other woman in Mr Mehra's life other than Monica, Sheetal and You? Anyone you knew he had a deeper relationship with instead of...you know...” he said as Tripti stood up at once

“How can you ask her such a question? Don't you see how disturbed she already is? I think you have asked her enough questions for now....even if Arun had other women he was as you say 'deeply' involved with, we don't know any of it...” she said, her eyes blazing fire as she kept a supportive hand on her sister's shoulder....the detective looked at the rest of them one more time before nodding as he left

“Tripti beta, what was that? He asked a routine question...you do know that Monica has alleged that Arun used to get calls from a woman right? That's how Garima has gotten caught up in all this...then what was wrong in Garima answering that question? What if she had an inkling about some other woman?...it would have taken the suspicion away from her” Shalini said eyeing Garima who shook her head.

“No ma, I don't know of any other woman...and please don't shout at Tripti, she was only trying to protect me...” she said as Khushi came and sat down next to her “Mamma...are you sure your'e ok? Maybe you should rest for some time” Khushi said as Tripti sighed “Come Rimmy...i'll take you to your room...rest till dinner ok...” she said as she helped Garima up, she turned towards her mother once before looking away and taking Garima with her.

“Nani...maasi was only looking out for mamma...I know she overreacted...but you can't blame her for it” Khushi said as Shalini nodded and pursed her lips...she then turned towards Arnav and smiled “Thanks for coming beta, I know the detective was within his limits since you were here...he would have probably not been so accommodating otherwise” she said as she patted Arnav's cheek “Khushi please make sure Arnav stays back for dinner...and No I will not take a no for an answer” she said as Arnav started protesting. She gave a stern look at Khushi before leaving the two alone in the sitting room.

“Arnav...what are you doing here?” Khushi asked him as soon as nani left...she watched as Arnav stepped towards her and took her hand “I wanted to come Khushi...I know you needed me here...” he said as Khushi shook her head “How...what are you talking about?” she said as Arnav smiled “Don't deny Khushi...when i asked you in the morning you seemed uncertain....i knew you wanted to ask me to come...so i came..” he said as Khushi looked on, a slight smile curving her lips

“Ok fine...i did....but I did not want to bother you..” she said as he pulled her hand till she bumped into his hard chest “Never think that anything you ask will ever be a bother ok....” he said as she kept her palms on his chest...his heartbeat erratic against them “Ok...i won't....” she said as she laid her head over his chest

“Thanks...” she said as he sighed “anytime...now aren't you going to show me your bedroom?” he asked suggestively as she hit him playfully on his arms and giggled as she pulled him along with her.... “I don't think you can visit my bedroom yet...but i have a much better place to show you” she said as he followed her...wondering where she was taking him.