Chapter 14

“Why don't you keep any single malt?” Arun asked sheetal as he rummaged around the liquor cabinet in her living room “Or is it that you keep the better hooch for you rich boyfriends?” he mocked as he saw her come towards him from the corner of his eyes and shut the cabinet with a bang

“I don't think you should drink more! How much did you have anyways?” she said as she made a disgusted face and went back to her phone...Arun looked at her as he once again opened the cabinet and picked out a bottle of Jack Daniel's from it...pouring a generous amount in a crystal glass, he took a deep sip “Who are you trying to call? You've been at it since a while now” he said as she ended the call in frustration and threw it on the couch.

“Arnav...been trying his phone since that day at that stupid event...the day your stupid wife had to open her big ass mouth!” she said with ire as Arun chuckled “Oh yes...how can i forget that day! All of my dreams too got shattered! I'll never get Garima back again” he said sipping on the amber liquid.

“God only knows how many times i've tried to call and meet her since then...especially with that Dragon lady waiting to throw me out of this country...my own country! Bloody bitch! Who does she think she is!” he said with a growl as he downed the rest of the whiskey before banging the glass on a nearby table in anger.

“This is shite! Didn't you scrape enough from Raizada to buy some good stuff? Your house looks like shit! And so do you....Miss pretend rich miss!” he said with a demeaning grin as Sheetal gritted her teeth “How dare you come to my house and insult me!” she said as she pushed him away with her hands

“Yes, I pretend to be rich...yes, I trap rich guys...but you? Who are manipulative bastard who does not even think twice before conning your own daughter and ex-wife for your benefit...your'e such a sick man!” she said as she once again tried to push him when her phone started ringing.

She ran to pick up the phone and was overjoyed when she saw the name flashing on the screen...she pressed talk and was about to say something on the phone when she heard a different voice...a female voice...she listened to what was being said before cutting the call and throwing it on the opposite, shattering it to pieces.

“Woah!!...what did lover boy say huh? Did he tell you to go into exile as well!” Arun laughed as sheetal came towards him and held him by his lapels “That was your Goddamn daughter on my boyfriend's phone...” she said baring her teeth

“How dare she tell me to leave Arnav alone! Who the hell is she? Oh I know...like father...like daughter...she's probably warming his bed right at this...” she started saying when a sudden slap from Arun made her fall down....the shock of the slap registering few minutes before the door bell rang

“Stay there you bitch!” Arun said to her in a menacing voice as he walked to the door...he yanked it open before even checking out who it was from the security camera phone...it might have been good if he had....because the last thing Arun Mehra saw before the gun shot reverberated around Sheetal's home...was a pair of black as coal eyes.

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

“When are you going to thank me for it?” Khushi asked happily as she eyed arnav's phone and sipped on her glass of rich red bordeaux...she looked up from the rim of her glass as arnav gave her an amused look “What? She hasn't called since then has she?” she giggled as arnav smiled at her sheepishly while shaking his head

They had come out for a dinner at Khushi's favorite restaurant to celebrate their first win in G&R...they had successfully bid and won a contract for a leading organization that provided clothing lines for many leading brands in Australia...this was their first step towards success..so here they were...enjoying a quite meal and good wine

“Ok fine..thank you!..she's been annoying the hell outta me for quite some time now....I hope I won't get any calls for a few days alteast!” Arnav said as he cut into the beautifully cooked steak...he was actually glad that Khushi had told Sheetal off before they left for the dinner...he had had enough of her calls all week.

“Hmm....she did just cut the call...was probably royally pissed off that I spoke on your phone...hey! We might be in the news tomorrow...Mumbai's latest celebrity couple...I won't put it past Sheetal to leak this little info to the gossip columns of Mumbai's dailies...Khushi Gupta called from ASR's phone...somethings cooking!!” khushi said with a smile as arnav stopped eating midway

“And will that be a bad thing” he asked her not really realizing that he said it aloud...he saw as khushi stopped twirling her spaghetti as she looked up at him “I'm sorry....did you say something? Why are you whispering?” she asked him as he breathed a sigh of relief...for a minute he thought she had heard him “Nothing...more wine?” he asked her as khushi nodded and picked up her glass

She looked at arnav as he concentrated on pouring the wine in her glass...she had started doing this quite a lot now a days...observing him...ever since that day in the penthouse, a week ago...there had been some kind of an unknown energy between them...something she could not explain.

It was as if...as if...Arnav had become an integral part of her life...she could not deny the attraction she felt for him, it was always there...his looks, charm and also his high-handed behavior, though mostly in the past had always attracted her to him...but she knew it would never be fruitful...its always better to stay away from such distractions..especially in a work environment

Besides, Arnav would probably laugh it off if he ever comes to know about her thoughts...how she looked forward to seeing him everyday....not in a pschyo stalker kind of way...but as someone with whom she enjoyed spending time with....it had come as a shock to her when she started dressing extra careful, wondering what he might think of her...even today, she had really thought about her outfit before deciding on the lace white dress with shocking orange heels. (see below)

She blinked as he clicked his fingers in front of her eyes “Khushi? What happened? You just zoned out there...i nearly poured the whole bottle in your glass wondering why you weren't asking me to stop” he said as khushi pulled back her glass a took a huge swig

“Hey! Easy...are you ok? You seem kind of dazed!” he said as he took the glass from her hand, his fingers brushing against her hand...sending shivers down her spine. She quickly composed herself and gave him an extra bright smile “I'm fine...seriously...I was just thinking about stuff...you know, family...work” she said as arnav nodded

“Hmm...Yeah i understand...So, hows this new guy? Shashi Dinkaran? I've heard a lot about him...your Nani must have done some big time head hunting to get him on board...he'll be the new MD right?” he asked as Khushi nodded, her flushed cheeks now returning back to normalcy

“Yes, but he's not joined yet...he's gotta tie up all the loose ends in Bangalore before joining Gupta Mills here, he's only met Nani once in Mumbai for the official interview, but she was mighty impressed!...it did not take her long to take her decision...” she said as arnav looked on keenly...he had heard a lot of good things about the guy and was curious about him

“Nani tells me, he's really good...He single handedly turned Sulaja textiles around from being a small time cottage industry to the multinational it is today....” she said as arnav nodded “Yeah...i heard, but funny how he was keen to join Gupta Mills if he was so attached to the old company...I mean, i'm sure its not just monetary...then...” arnav said as khushi smiled

“I know, I too thought so at the start...but nani told me that the next generation of Sulaja textiles is well groomed to take over, giving Shashi the break that he always wanted...I heard from nani that his wife passed away some years ago and that was very hard on him and his two children...so I guess they just want a fresh break..” she said as she took the last bite of her spaghetti

“Yeah, makes sense...it's never easy to let go of someone you loved so much” arnav said quietly as khushi covered her palm with his and squeezed...arnav felt a sudden calm as her fingers stroked his hand...giving him a kind of peace he craved for...thinking about his parents always got him emotional and he never wanted to display this side in front of anyone..but he found himself opening to her under her soft gaze

“You know Khushi...at least I have some recollections of my parents..before they...uh....but Aakash...he was really young then...he hardly remembered them...” he said as he held onto her hand “Sometimes i don't know which one of us is worse, someone who has memories to live with or someone who never got a chance to make those memories” he said as he took a deep breath, trying not to get too emotional.

Khushi felt her heart go heavy hearing arnav's words...she did not know how it was to feel a loss of close ones...her parents both being alive and well...but she could relate to him with the memories part...she had some beautiful ones with her father

“Arnav...I think both have their own woes...even though my father is with us, I only remember him by the memories i had before everything fell apart” she said as arnav opened his eyes, surprised to see khushi talk about her father

“He used to take me to this small park near our house...it had swings and slides and those monkey bars to climb up on...we used to go there every tuesdays and fridays, and I used to wait when my papa would come and take to there to play...” she said, her eyes taking on a faraway look

“I have this picture of us in that park, where i'm sitting on his shoulders while he's grinning proudly into the camera...I kept it pinned to my study board at my boarding school..remembering that day...waiting for the day when someone would come and tell me that all this was a bad dream....that soon a friday or tuesday will come and papa will come to take me to that park..” she said as a lone tear made its way down her creamy cheek

“Excuse me...I need to use the restroom” she said abruptly as she got up before arnav could say anything and walked briskly towards the ladies room...she ran into the room and opened one of the cubicles before letting it all out.

She cried for all the days she had wasted waiting for her father to come to her...for the days she had foolishly hoped that he would tell her that everything was a lie and that he would be back with her and her mother...she cried for all that lost hope.

After a few minutes as she washed her face and took many deep breaths...she finally felt better...she walked out of the bathroom to go towards their table when she came across a very worried looking arnav pacing in front of glass doors “Arnav? Did you need the gents...its that way..” she started saying when he came towards her and grabbed her hand...he pulled her towards the open terrace and made her stand in front of her

“Arnav...what?” she asked him as he placed a gentle finger on her chin and tilted her face up “You've been crying...” he said as he took in her slightly puffed eyes and smudged kohl...she looked up into his eyes and was caught unawares as his bore into hers....the molten depth calling out to her...making her feel oddly secure.

“Its ok Khushi...you don't have to be strong always...you can show your weakness...let it all out if it will make you feel better...” he said softly as khushi's eyes once again brimmed with hot tears...she could feel them trail over her cheeks...she could taste them on her lips as arnav brushed his thumb over her heated skin, sending goosebumps over her body as he cupped her face with one hand...his thumb now tracing over her lips...removing the remnants of her salty liquid now pooling copiously in her eyes.

Arnav breathed in a shuddering breath as his hands trembled...he tucked a wayward lock of her silky hair behind her ears as his other hand continued to hold onto her face...he saw her eyes question him...implore him about why he was with her...but the pain and hurt he saw there was for her destructive past....something that she had to let go..

She looked ethereal in her lace dress, the moonlight highlighting the pure white color on her pale skin..he looked on as her bottom lip trembled with unmasked pain and his first thought was to swoop down and take them into his, making her forget everything...but instinct and her vulnerable state made him stop his wayward thoughts, instead he shook his head and gathered her in his arms and hugged her.

Khushi had no idea why she felt so safe and at peace as arnav wiped her tears..she could not understand the uncharacteristic beating of her heart as he looked at her lips...and then back into her eyes, the caramel depths now turning darker...she felt herself give in to that feeling of helplessness she always felt when she confronted her past...she looked on as he shook his head and pulled her into a tight hug.

They felt the noise around the restaurant fade away...the cold wind caressing their bodies had suddenly turned warm and inviting...the stars twinkled brighter...but all good things must come to an end...before either of them could enjoy this feeling and question themselves about why they were feeling so, the shrill sound of a cell phone interrupted their embrace

Khushi pulled back quickly as arnav took a few steps away to make some distance between them...he saw her looking at him questioningly as he realized it was her phone that was ringing in his pocket “Oh...uh, you left your phone on the table when you came...so...I brought it with me” he said as he pulled out her phone from his pocket and handed it to her

Khushi smiled shyly before wiping away the remaining tears lingering on her lashes...she said a soft thank you to arnav as she glanced at the person calling “Its my mother...i'll just be a second” she said as arnav turned to leave while khushi picked up the call

“Mamma...what..” she started saying calmly before her voice took a more panicked tone “mamma...why are you crying? What happened?” she asked her as arnav turned back and walked swiftly towards her

“Slow down mamma...please...tell me...whats the matter...i'm coming home right now” she said as she turned around to walk back into the restaurant with Arnav right behind her when something made her stop...her eyes went wide and her breath came out with difficulty as she heard her mother sobbing voice at the other end.

She did not know when the phone slipped from her hand or when she fainted..she did not remember when arnav held her right before she fell...she did not remember arnav frantically picking her phone and trying to call her mother to know what she had told her...the only thing she remembered before she fainted was her mother's broken voice... “Arun has been shot...he's no more...your father is dead khushi”

Khushi's Dress

Chapter 13

“Arun, I suppose you know why I’ve called you for this meeting” Shalini Gupta said as she sat opposite her ex-son in law who looked visibly stressed out. On her left sat her trusty CFO, Raj who had a calm expression on his face, making Arun Mehta sweat...he had an inkling as to why he was called here, but he prayed that it wasn't so.

“Uh...maaji…” Arun started as Shalini raised an eyebrow “Please refrain from calling me that…we both know how much respect you have for such relationships” she said with barely controlled anger as Arun looked at her with seemingly desperate eyes…his fist clenching and unclenching in nervousness

“Did you think that you will so easily launder money out of my company, and we won’t know about it?” she asked him as Mr Raj gave her a file resting on the table. She opened the file to a specific page and leaned ahead to show the contents to Arun.

“I don’t need any more proof…and any number of reasons you throw in your defense won’t work here” she said as Arun poured over the neatly printed excel sheets with attached vendor details and bills…he knew it was futile to talk his way out of this

He looked up with pleading eyes at the regal woman sitting in front of him, unable to form words in front of the fire burning in her eyes “I….I..don’t…” he started saying when Mr Raj got up and took the file away..he looked at Shalini who nodded at him and waited till he left her cabin, leaving Arun and her alone inside

“However close Raj is to all of us, there are certain things I can’t discuss in front of him…especially those which include my daughter and grand-daughter in matters where you are concerned” she said as Arun sat with his head in his hands that were shaking due to fear and anger

“Maaji…you have to understand!...I had debts…some which I took in Khushi’s name…to buy property for her” he said as Shalini got up in anger and pushed her chair away with such force that Arun was left shocked to see that much energy in her fragile body.

“Don’t you dare take Khushi’s name! You have never…ever done anything for my girls…You think I don’t know how you had planned it all? You always meant to marry Garima for her money…it was an added bonus that she fell pregnant and gave you that chance without any qualms from our side” she said as she controlled her breathing and picked up a frame from her table

She lovingly gazed at a picture of all three of them, Her..Garima and Khushi; it was taken a week before Khushi had left for the London for her undergrad… “You broke her Arun…you made her stand against her own family…you humiliated her…you did everything that one should never do to someone they claim to love…” she said as a thin film of tears formed on her aged eyes

“And Khushi…all that girl wanted was her father…but what did you give her? Nothing!..I won’t even get into things my darling had to go through due to your heinous and shameful ways” Shalini said as she placed the frame back on the table

“If you think even for a second, that Garima will once again forgive you…think again. Don’t ever show your face to her…she has moved on and I do hope that she will find someone worthy of her love..unlike you..” she said as Arun slowly got up from his chair, his shoulder dropping…he knew there was nothing else he could do…not now at least

“As for Khushi…I won’t tell her about your criminal activities, nor am I going to call the police and hand you over…it will cause too much grief for both of them, so I’m letting you go…leave this country…don’t show your face ever again!...trust me, I will make your life hell if you stay here…I have made sure that no one will hire you..so it’s best you go….think of this as your exile” she said as Arun looked at her with angry eyes

“You can't make me go away...you want to throw me out? Fine! To hell with this company....Lets see how you keep this sinking ship afloat!” he mocked as Shalini Gupta smirked at him “So much arrogance is not good Arun, I had thought that you would be at least a little bit shameful...but I think i hoped for too much...” she said as the door to her cabin opened up and two guards came inside.

“You will leave Arun..or I know ways to make you” she said, a slight glint twinkling in her sharp eyes before she walked out of her cabin…leaving Arun with the guards who escorted him out of the office building to his immense embarrasment. Arun did not know how things had gone from bad to worse…he knew it was best to lie low at the moment…and going away for a few days was the best option..though not out of the country yet..he had many things to plan.

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

Arnav looked at the almost comical expression of shock on Khushi’s face as she stood like a statue outside the door….he waved his hands in front of her face “Hello! Ms Gupta…” he said, as she shut her open mouth and stepped inside the huge apartment

“Arnav? What is this? And what are you…” she started saying as Arnav shut the door behind her and interrupted her confused talk “Khushi…this is the R&S Penthouse..” he said matter-of-factly as khushi nodded at him slowly…trying to work out why he had called her up here…and what did he mean by those words he had said at the doorstep

“God woman! Are you in shock or something? Its just a pent-house!” he said as khushi gaze travelled around the magnificent penthouse…she loved the simple and elegant lines of the place with a beautiful winding staircase leading to the upper floors…she could make out two doors on either side of the living room with a large entrance into the massive looking kitchen, separated by a glass wall

“No Arnav…I still don’t get it...why have you called me here” she said as arnav sighed “Khushi…this is the R&S Penthouse …I usually stay back here if I get late…sometimes we even conduct dinner meetings here..” he said as khushi walked ahead touching the beautiful furnishing before sinking into the plush couch

“Hmm…” she said as she leaned back and relaxed into the soft leather “And why is it my home away from home? From what i've gathered so far...its yours!” she said as he went and sat besides her on the couch “Yes, its my place, but i don't live here permanently” he said as she still looked at him blankly

He sighed as he scooted closer to her on the couch “Khushi!…you live near my house, so I know how long it takes you to commute…tI’m giving you access to this place, so that you can stay back if you ever wish to..” he said as khushi gaped at him.

“And..i also know that you don’t get a driver…its not safe for a women to drive very late in the city…that too so far…I just thought it would be better to have an option if you feel like staying back…” he said as khushi nodded silently.

She was trying to work out how Arnav’s mind works…just two days ago he was ranting on about how unfit she was for her job…then today morning he apologized and now he was offering her keys to his apartment…ok, not his apartment but his company’s penthouse?

“Arnav…thanks for all this, but I don’t think I can accept it…plus I can’t possible ever stay back..my mom and grandmother won’t agree” she said as arnav smirked at her “Ms Gupta…I’m not asking you to move into my apartment for a raunchy time with me..I’m only providing you with a safe option if you ever get stuck late…so quit being all weird and thank me for my generous gesture” he said pulling her hand forward and thrusting the extra set of keys in her soft palm

Khushi, whose face had warmed up at his words seconds ago, laughed heartily as he pushed the keys into her hand…his fingers stroking her palm, a second more than required…she pulled her hand back, clutching the keys as soon as he let it go “Fine, I suppose it makes sense..thanks arnav…though I don’t think I’ll make use of these” she said playing catch catch with the keys in her hands

“We’ll see…” he said as he got up, suddenly feeling too warm sitting next to her…her intoxicating perfume swirling around his nostrils in the cosy space…he turned back to look at her observing him..her gaze softer than usual…but comforting in a way “Uh…I’ll show you around” he said as she quickly tore her eyes away and nodded, following him around the house

He showed her all the various rooms, nooks and spaces in the huge apartment and asked her to choose any of the bedroom, except for the one of the left from the living room “That belongs to my brother, who never really stays over…but apparently uses to study when there are guests at home..total lie!" he said as he smiled, making khushi’s lips turn up in mirth..she always wanted a sibling and wondered how it would be like having one.

“And the one on the right of the staircase, at the end of the corridor…is mine…so stay away!” he said as khushi rolled her eyes… “As if, I’m dying to go to your room..God only knows what I’ll find there!” she said as arnav looked at her seriously “Only my secret Harem” he said as she looked on at his straight face before bursting out laughing.

“Yeah right!” she said as arnav shrugged his shoulders “Guess, you’ll never find out” he said and stopped to look at her before continuing “Also, no bringing over anyone…I mean..” he said as khushi held back a smile “Oh…you mean my romantic interests? For a raunchy time?” she added his words as she grinned at his sheepish face

“Yep…not that you will, seeing that you don’t have one…just setting the rules you know” he said as khushi jabbed him in his arm “Oye! I’m not a saint…like you said, I’ll eventually find the right one right? But I still won’t bring him here..” she said with a cheeky grin and left to go and see the kitchen, something that always fascinated her

Arnav looked on as she whooshed past him…her gorgeous long legs hurrying towards the kitchen…he could not help but check her out…she was beautiful…there was no doubt about it, and he was enjoying this gradual peeling away of her layers…she really was a puzzle and he did not understand why he was so drawn towards her…it wasn’t merely as passe as an attraction....which he was. Attracted that is.

Yes, he had realized it that day at the mela, when he saw her for the first time, without any pretense…he always felt she was trying to prove something to him, in her strict and proper ways…but that day, he saw something which left him restless…in that simple dress holding a small child who looked at her with so much trust, he just knew that she was different and special.

He had always been attracted to her like a man is to a woman...she was breathtakingly gorgeous. But this was more than that…he admired her, he loved the way she always stood up for the people she loves…the way she speaks her mind and does not hold back…the way she accepts her faults and applauds her achievements without being egotistical about it..yes, she was special....but he knew he could never cross the professional boundary...not with her.

He shook his head as he heard her calling his name from the kitchen…he was amazed at the fact that he gave her access to this place…a place which was his secret heaven…somewhere only his close friends and family were allowed…it did not make sense, his reasons, though genuine, were made up.

He just wanted her to feel like she belonged; he had judged her too harshly and wanted to make it up to her…she deserved to share this with him, like they were sharing G&R..and maybe this was his way of repentance...yes, that's what it was. What else.

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

“Madam, here is the resume you were asking about…” Mr Raj said handing over a file to Shalini as she went about signing some official papers. She was glad that they were done with Arun Mehra…a fact which she had conveyed to her daughter some time back.

She was happy that Garima had taken this news positively; the only worry she had of her daughter being against it...vanished as Shalini saw a new dawn break over her family…the dark shadows of the past finally lifting off as Garima openly supported her mother in front of her one-time love.

Shalini Gupta took a deep breath as she flipped through the impressive resume…now that Arun was no more their country head, it was time they bring in new blood in to the company…except for Khushi, no one was capable to take over from Arun, but Shalini did not want her to take up this responsibility...not that she did not trust her to do it, but because she had other plans for her grand daughter

She smiled and handed over the file to Mr Raj and nodded “Let’s get him down from Bangalore for an interview as soon as possible…I think he will be best suited for this role…plus I had met him when he was promoted to sales head in ‘Sulaja Textiles’…and was very impressed” she said as Mr Raj smiled and nodded before leaving.

Shalini twirled the paperweight on her table and closed her eyes as thoughts of her company ran amok in her head…they were doing fine, but competition was fierce...plus Arun's departure will have a great effect on them…good? Bad? Only time will tell..till then, Shashi Dinkaran was their best choice…she just knew it.

Chapter 12

Note: A few of you were confused when Khushi thinks about Arnav firing Sheetal...what she meant was that he would break-up with her...like fire her from his life! and Yes, Sheetal was sleeping with Arun...read on...you'll know more as the chapters progress :)

PS: Thanks for all the lovely comments...i love reading them!

xx

The last thing that Arnav expected to see when he entered the conference room for the meeting with the core team was a visibly relaxed khushi, smiling and chatting casually with Lavanya...he cleared his throat to announce his arrival when both of them turned towards him startled

Arnav was prepared to get a cold look from khushi, but was pleasantly surprised when she smiled warmly at him and stood up as Lavanya said a quick excuse me and rushed out of the room, making him wonder if she was his PA or her's “Good Morning Arnav...” Khsuhi said as arnav smiled uncertainly.

“Uh...Good morning Khushi...the rest of the team not joining us?” he asked checking the time on his watch...he was himself a couple of minutes late and had thought that the rest of their team would be present in the meeting by now

Khushi shook her head as she sat down followed by Arnav who sat a few chairs adjacent to her “No, I first wanted to discuss some things with you before we involve the rest...i guess we both need to be on the same leaf before addressing the rest of the team” she said as arnav nodded in agreement

“Fair enough...as it is, because of my carelessness we are in this rut...” he mumbled feeling frustrated that they need to rework on all aspects of their marketing plan now that Sahiba was out....his thoughts were interrupted when he felt a warm soft hand press on his hand gently

“Hey! Its ok...i know why you fired her and I appreciate it Arnav...i really do...and if you don't mind, i'd like to forget about what happened that day...we say things when we are angry....God only knows what stuff i have spewed when in anger......so its fine...plus I know you regret saying all that...so lets just start afresh..ok?” khushi asked arnav tentatively as he kept staring at her....the warmth her palm provided giving him an assurance that she really meant it.

“Thank you Khushi...I really don't know what to say...I feel really ashamed about what i said the other day; and to be honest with you....most of it really was what i used to think....but since we have started working together, I have come to know you as a person and a colleague on a more personal level...and trust me when I say this, that I am very glad that you are with me in this venture...I could not have asked for a better person” he said with a sincere look in his eyes which made khushi smile brightly at him

“Hmm...Arnav Singh Raizada...you have a silver tongue!” she said as she laughed aloud, her tinkling laughter filling the entire room...making the other occupant of the room take notice of how sweet it sounded and how it touched some chords in his heart...how could he have upset someone who was so forgiving.

It took him a few seconds to gather that she had stopped laughing and was now looking very pensive...he wondered what had bought on this look on her face, when she answered herself “Some people are born charmers aren't they? They just know how to...” she said as she sighed loudly when arnav squeezed her hand back “Mr Mehra?” he asked her as she looked at him with slightly bright eyes

She nodded slowly as he felt anger course through him..he knew the kind of snake that man was...but after what he had further discovered about him yesterday, it really made him hope that he could wring that man's neck...not because he was sleeping with his girlfriend but because of what all he was putting Khushi and her mother through

“Hey....i'm sorry about yesterday....I really could not imagine Sheetal...” she said as arnav looked at her with irritated eyes “Khushi...I don't give two hoots about Sheetal...things had gotten beyond bad between us, so much so that I don't remember that last time we spent some time together on our own” he said as khushi looked at him questioningly

“I started dating Sheetal a while ago...she gave me the space i wanted...but I knew from the start that she was very materialistic...I won't go into the nature of my relationship with her...but things had gotten pretty bad between us since the past month or so...she was getting clingy and wanted some sort of commitment from me” he said as Khushi continued to listen

“Its not that I don't believe in commitment...I was very clear with her from the start that I was not looking for that from her....we were dating casually and I never intended to take this companionship forward” he said as khushi nodded

“And then recently I told her that I wanted to break things off with her and she convinced me that we should do it gradually as it would be harmful for her career if i suddenly broke up with her” he said wondering again why he was telling her all this.

“But then when i came to know yesterday about how she was sleeping with Arun mehra...it disgusted me!....I kept thinking to myself last entire night why I was with her in the first place or why I continued to be with her” he said exasperated at himself when khushi sighed loudly beside him

“Like i said Arnav...that man knows how to charm...anyways you are better off without her...I did wonder what the hell you were doing with her!” she said with a straight face as arnav burst out laughing...with Khushi joining him shortly after....the tense atmosphere easing away slowly as they finally got on with the work at hand.

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

“Well..well...well...if it isn't for my darling hubby!” Monica said in a sickly sweet tone to Arun as he sat in his study...after what has happened yesterday at the mela, he had promptly put her in the car and told the driver to take her home while he took off to his condo outside the city.

He had wanted to avoid speaking to her yesterday and would have gladly done the same for a long time had he not had to come back to his house to work. He had avoided going to Gupta Mills today since he knew that he would be glared at by the faithful employees of Shalini madam, plus it was best to avoid the old hag as well till things calmed down.

He was really annoyed that Sheetal and Monica had found an opportune time to bicker yesterday in front of Garima and Khushi...now he had to work on a new plan to explain to Garima that whatever she had heard and seen yesterday was a lie...that he was not sleeping with Sheetal and was still considering leaving Monica at the earliest

He got back from his thoughts at the shrill voice of his wife who had just entered his study, still in her robe...he gave her a warning stare before getting up and striding towards her....he held her roughly by her arms and pushed her at her wooden door, nearly dislocating her arm in her process “You B***h!...Do you know how much you humiliated me yesterday!” he said as he pushed her harshly at her door

Monica straightened up and winced as the sharp pain shooting from her arms made her momentarily unfocused, but pretty soon she was facing her husband again with fire spitting from her eyes “Oh yeah! I humiliated you! You B*****d! You think I did not know that you were sleeping with that slut!” she said as Arun turned around and slapped her hard across the face

“Shut the f**k up!” he said as she looked up at him with disgust “Oh you want me to shut up huh?! I know that yesterday's drama only affected you cause your precious daughter and ex-f*****g wife were present there...and Oh, how they must have reacted to what they heard!” she said scathingly only to make him come towards her again

“Oh, beat me all you want! But remember...this is going to cost you honey! I now have proof that you were cheating on me...Oh I know how much you cheat sweetheart....but now, this is in front of the entire world! Why the hell do you think i instigated that slut!...I knew she's too dumb to understand that I said all those things to trap her...I knew she would spew the truth about your relation with her...and...” she said holding her phone

“I also had someone take a video of our little conversation...plus whatever followed...you know! Your daughter threatening you...and all the other drama....proves to the world what a a lying, cheating b****d you are! Hence making it easy for me to get a hefty alimony....” she said as she laughed heartily, making Arun come towards her again

“Uh uh!” she said stepping away from him “You don't want me to make my case stronger by citing domestic violence now, do you?!” she said with a smirk as Arun stepped back...knowing that his wife had very cleverly trapped him....he had wondered yesterday why she had insisted on coming to the event with him...when she clearly hated being in the same space as Garima and Khushi.

He went to his desk and swept his hands in a fit of rage...throwing everything down on the carpeted floor...he looked at the scattered things before turning back to his wife...soon to be ex “You listen to me Monica...and you listen well....you have done your best...But i will not bow down so easily...I will fight you till the end...try and prove anything you want, but remember...I am Arun Mehra...I can and I will prove all your accusations false in court and when i'm done with that...you won't even know what hit you!” he said in a cold menacing voice.

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

“Seriously rimmy.....I really don't know why you still hold a candle for that scum” Tripti said as she placed a steaming cup of green tea in front of her sister...she was glad that she had come to meet her after her court session especially after khushi had told her today, about what had transpired yesterday.

She was glad that her sister did not seem that perturbed as she usually would have been, if any of Arun's negatives had come out....she usually was a wreck whenever her dying love for that undeserving man was questioned.

Tripti still remembered the day when Garima had found out that Arun was cheating on her while being married...Khushi had been very young then.

The subsequent divorce on Shalini's insistence had really broken her little sister, who had believed that Arun had committed adultery under the influence of alcohol..a very convincing story he had weaved for her love sick mind...but Tripti had known better....she knew her sister's husband very well and she knew the kind of things he was capable of.

They really had a tough time bringing their lovely rimmy back from her depression...poor Khushi had to be sent to boarding school, so that she could be away from the kind of devastation her mother faced...plus the sudden absence of her father had been very tough on the poor child.

It had taken them a long time, but Garima had finally come out of it...mostly for Khushi's sake...but her love for Arun had not died...in fact the slime that he was, he kept meeting her even after their divorce...feeding her lies about how he was framed by her own mother to get rid of him from her daughter's life.

Tripti remembered those awful days when Garima had stood against her mother and had insisted on marrying Arun again...but Shalini and Tripti were very much against it all....and finally Garima had conceded, but only at the expense of keeping Arun in the company...the vile man had turned her against her own family and had extracted a promise from her which kept him financially secure...a hefty positing in Gupta Mills...one that he still enjoyed.

“Tripti? What happened? I think I am the one who should be lost in thoughts” Garima said as she sipped on her calming green tea...the aroma making her feel light instantly “And trust me...I don't hold a candle for him anymore...the recent days have shown me the true picture of him...something that I should have seen all those years ago” she said as her sister placed a comforting hand on her shoulder

“You were young then rimmy...I still remember how fascinated you were with him....how excited you were when he asked you out for a coffee in our cafeteria” she said as Garima kept the cup down and leaned back in her chair “I know...he was so handsome and so charming...” she said as she remembered her Arun from those days

“He had that aura around him you know...and I fell for him right away!....his good looks, fresh MBA degree..suave and so well spoken....even Nanu used to love him....” she said as she thought of those days...her first and only love...she had fallen hook, line and sinker for him and before she knew...she had given him her all.

“Hey!..forget about all that ok...its all in the past now” Tripti said as she squeezed Garima hand and scooted her chair closer to her sister's “I know Tripti...but i always wonder...how would have my life turned out if I hadn't fallen pregnant at that age? How would things be, if Arun had not proposed marriage and I had instead aborte...” she started saying when Tripti kept her palm on Garima's mouth

“Shush!...don't ever say that!....that baby is Khushi...our chulbuli...I think the only good thing that man did was that he fathered our Khushi....how would have happiness come in our life otherwise?” she said as both sisters smiled warmly thinking out their chulbuli...their Khushi.

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

“Maam...do you have a minute?” Lavanya poked her head inside Khushi's cabin as she looked up from her laptop screen...After the successful meeting in the morning, both she and Arnav had become busy again in their respective work “Off course Lavanya..come in” she said as she saw Lavanya enter

“Sorry to disturb you...looks like you were busy” she said as Khushi shrugged “No...i'm actually glad that you came, i needed a breather...come, have a seat” she said as Lavanya shook her head and smiled “No maam...i actually came to tell you that ASR has called you to the 28^th floor” she said as khushi looked on confused

“28^th floor? What's that? A restaurant?” she asked as Lavanya laughed “No maam...28^th floor of this building, Raizada Towers...he's waiting for you up there” she said as Khushi nodded “Oh ok...but what's on 28^th floor? Actually now that i think of it...i hardly know what goes on, on the other floors of this building...” she said as Lavanya smiled

“Well, many of the floors have been rented out for sister concerns of R&S...as you know there are many things we dabble in...but the 28^th floor is...” she said as Khushi looked on as Lavanya stopped talking and opened the door for her

“I think it's best that you go and have a look yourself maam...oh and this is the access code” she said as khushi took the piece of paper from her, raised an eyebrow and gave her an amused smile before making her way to the elevator.

She pressed the button to the 28^th floor and waited as the elevator climbed...once it stopped on the 28^th floor which was coincidentally the last floor in the building, the LED screen in front of her prompted her to punch in the code...she checked the code given to her and pressed it to find the screen go green before the lift opened up to a beautiful white marbled foyer

She stepped out in the wonderful smelling room and walked further towards a huge wooden double door...she was just about to ring the bell or knock when the door was opened up by none other than arnav, who stood aside to let her walk inside a magnificent penthouse “Welcome...to your home away from home” he said as khushi looked on wide-eyed.

Chapter 11

“You are looking so pretty chinna” Lakshamma said as she swiped some kajal from her eyes and applied it behind a highly amused khushi's ear who could not hold her giggles

“Lakshamma, seriously! I'm not a kid anymore...and i look the same!” khushi said as she side hugged their years old cook...who was more of a second mother to her...she had after all grown on her food.

She watched fondly as sliver of tears appeared in the older woman's eyes while she quickly served up some hot idli's on khushi's plate.

“Whatever you say...you will always be a kid for all of us...and you are very beautiful...but an indian dress always makes you look like an angel” she said plonking down tons of coconut chutney that khushi loved with a bowl of steaming hot sambhar which would be finished in a few seconds.

“Really? You think I look better in Indian attire?” Khushi asked her as Lakshamma bustled around the dining area getting the fruits and juices ready for her chinna.

“Yes, you do...and i think you will look more beautiful in a saree” she said with a wink and a bright smile as she sauntered off into the kitchen to get more food to feed khushi

Khushi smiled as she glanced at her reflection in the mirror adjoining the dining table...she thought she looked ok because she had hardly ever worn Indian...but today she felt she should wear something simple for the mela...today was for the kids and they should be the centre of attention.

She squeezed down the rest of the idlis on her plate and drank the orange juice quickly before calling a loud bye to Lakshamma...her mother had already gone to the grounds since she wanted to oversee the entire preparations and her nani would be joining them directly from the temple.

As khushi got up and brushed the crumbs off her dress, she remembered her mother telling her that Arun Mehra would be there as well...along with his wife...this had not sat well with khushi, who was already struggling to keep her emotions in check with the fact that Arnav would be there as well.

Arnav...he was such a...such a....she had no words for him actually...yes she had been hurt by him all those years ago...but when she had started working with him, she had seen another side to him...and had actually genuinely liked his company...the night in town had really made her forget all about the past and how silly she was being holding it against him.

But what happened yesterday had scoured that deep hurt again...and this time, it was left festering..she did not know what to make of him...after what he said to her during the argument, she was very sure about what he thought of her..even the awkward apology he served seemed forced.

She sighed as she picked up her bag and slipped on her sunglasses and started walking out the door towards her waiting car...she felt it was best to ignore the two men and just concentrate on the kids...she was really looking forward to this and no one in the world will spoil it for her.

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

“Your girlfriend could have been a little bit less....uh....flamboyant maybe?” Yudhisthir Raizada remarked as Sheetal stepped out of her car aided by akash...her flouncy fuchsia dress billowing in the wind, making her hold on to it with both her hands

Arnav smirked as he glanced at her and looked back at his grandfather “Dadu...leave it na...I thought she would not come...but she surprised me...said she wanted to help out with the mela” arnav said as his grandfather gave him an irritated look

“Arnav...this is an event held for the kids from the orphanages...the last thing we want is a free show from your..” he started saying as sheetal walked towards them holding akash's hand “Uh...Arnie...the ground is so rough...i can't seem to balance on my heels” she complained as a sniggering akash raised his eyebrows at his brother

“Sheetal...why don't you go and sit in the pavilion? You'll be more comfortable there...akash help her please” arnav said in mild annoyance at her as his grandfathers eyes got more disapproving towards her... “Yeah...i think i'll do that, its too hot to stand anyways....Oh hi yudi!” she said as she noticed arnav's grandfather and leaned forward to kiss him on his cheek which left the older man more horrified than earlier making him step back instantly.

“Sorry..i did not see you...i'll go and sit there...Akash, please help me hun” she said as akash nodded his head like a perfect gentleman and led her towards the seating area...he turned around once and mouthed a 'Yudi?' to both his brother and grandfather who had twin expressions of amusement on their faces

“I truly don't understand your choice in women arnav” Mr Raizada said as arnav shrugged his shoulders...he glanced around the huge grounds and smiled as he noticed Garima walking towards them

“Arnav beta...how are you? Its been so long since I last saw you...you should all come home for dinner once” she said as she lovingly cupped his cheek with one hand

“Yes aunty...we will definitely plan sometime...how have you been? The place looks amazing...i'm very glad that you are a part of this” he said his grandfather piped in “Yes garima is very passionate about this...she's truly a blessing” he said as garima smiled warmly at both of them

“Aastha foundation was your mother's brainchild Arnav...i am so glad that i can do a little bit for a cause she so believed in” Garima said as arnav nodded at her silently...he really did miss his mother at such times..he once again looked around and was trying to squint and look in the distance when his grandfathers voice cut his thoughts

“Who are you looking for arnav?” he asked him curiously to which Arnav shrugged again and looked away “No one...i'll just go and check with Lavanya on the arrivals...i think the buses should start coming in soon” he said as he stepped away...he did not know why he was so restless...but he knew that it was because of someone's absence

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

“Mamma! Where are you? I can't hear anything!” khushi shouted over the din of hundreds of children running and shouting..the whole atmosphere was soo lively that khushi could not help but smile widely at all the young kids of various ages..she tried to listen to her mother's voice but gave up when all she could hear was static

She ended the call and thought it was best to look for her mother the conventional way...she was trying to walk around the excited children when she felt a tug on her kurta...she looked down to see a small girl with tear stained eyes look sadly at her

Khushi quickly bent down at her level and cupped her cheek “What happened sweetheart? Are you lost?” Khushi asked her when the girl simply nodded and ran the back on her hand on her snotty nose...khushi smiled at her and picked her up to find a volunteer

“Don't worry ok...we'll find someone...what's your name?” she asked the little girl who had now buried her head in the crook of her neck...she sniffled one more time before croaking out a small “Diya...i don't know where my didi went” she said as huge tears filled her eyes

Khushi wiped her tears with one finger as she shook her head at her “No crying ok? We'll find your didi” she said as she tried looking around for some adult who looked like a volunteer...she was just about to turn when she heard someone whistle

She looked ahead to see a man in a white shirt calling out to the kids to come join in the art competition being held...she thought that he was probably a volunteer and walked briskly towards him with diya in her arms...she reached him and tapped him on his shoulders to get his attention..but was shocked as he turned around.

“Khushi?” arnav said with a shocked face as he looked at the beautiful woman in front of him...she wore a simple white churidar kurta with a colorful bright dupatta (see outfit below)..her hair was left open to dance in the wind...and her clear face sparkled with health

But what was more shocking was the small girl who was nestled in her arms...holding on to her as if her life depended on it... “Arnav?” khushi said in a small but tight voice as her brain registered the fact that he was indeed standing in front of her

This was the first time she had seen him in anything but formal wear...and surprise was a mild word for what she felt when she looked at him...the white linen shirt moulded his body perfectly and the rolled back sleeves gave her a tempting look of his sinewy hands (see outfit below) while the faded jeans, snugly fit his long legs.

Their awkward staring was suddenly bought to a standstill as little diya suddenly shouted out “Didi!” in a delighted voice to a woman walking towards them...she wriggled out of khushi's arms and into the arms of the woman who held the child close to her

“Oh diya...where were you? I was so worried!” she said as she looked up to find both arnav and khushi looking at their exchange “Thank you so much...i was really scared since diya is so small...she and a couple of the smaller kids were supposed to play in the designated play-area only...but when i turned for a second i did not see her...thanks for finding her” she said with gratitude shining in her eyes

“My pleasure..” khushi said to the woman and then turned around to the little girl “So diya...you will not cry now will you?” she asked her as the girl smiled at her and shook her head “Very good...now, can i get a kissy?” khushi asked her as the little girl leaped forward and planted a big smacking kiss on khushi's cheek

Both khushi and diya's didi started laughing at the gesture while arnav looked on with an odd expression...he had never thought of khushi as being the motherly type...Hell...he did not know what to think of this girl! He looked on as khushi waved a bye to diya and then turned towards him

“Looks like the kids really love this mela...the excitement and happiness is so infectious!” she said as a soft smile lit her beautiful face...her eyes glowed in mirth as she saw some of the kids running about with colorful ribbons and crepe paper for a craft competition

“Yes...its amazing...i was thinking that we should do this more often...” he said surveying the grounds...but trying to steal a glance at her serene face...wondering what was going on in her mind...was she still thinking about what happened yesterday? But she seemed to be talking normally to him

“Yes you should! And i'd love to get involved...please let me know how I can help out...both financially and personally” she said as arnav nodded at her excitement....but the minute a smile crept up his face...she looked away “Uh...I have to go and look for my mother...nani will be coming any time” she said as arnav called out to her before she left

“Khushi...about yesterday” he started saying when she turned around swiftly...the earlier warmth in her eyes getting replaced by indifference “I told you Arnav...i don't mix personal and professional issues...whatever happened yesterday, happened...just let it go” she said and started walking away when arnav held her wrist gently to make her stop

Khushi suddenly stopped as she felt his finger grasp her wrist...she looked up to find him looking at her with regret “I fired her...Sahiba...she's no longer with our company...” he said as khushi looked at him in horror “what? Why would you do that? And once again...why was I not informed?!” she said pulling her hand away from his grasp

“Khushi...she was badmouthing you...she was turning the other team members against you...I heard it and saw it myself...I can't have such a person working for me...I was going to tell you yesterday only...but it wasn't the right time” he said as khushi shook her head

“Then when is the right time arnav? You can't always decide things on your own..especially when it concerns GR...we are both equally responsible for it...I really wish you could have trusted me more...I don't see how we can work like this” she said as anger and helplessness drained her

She really did not know how he could not involve her in such a big decision...Sahiba was at a very senior post...Khushi was more afraid of the amount of information she has on their campaign...it could be harmful to them if she joins a competitor

“Did you not hear me Khushi? She was talking rubbish about you dammit!” he said, his anger rising with every second...he really did not know what this woman was made of...how can she defend someone who was so against her

“I heard Arnav...but did you think for even a second before firing her in anger, that she has valuable information about our entire fiscal plan? What if she uses that against us!....you should have let me handle this...We could have kept her on for a few more days and worked around this...now we'll have to rethink our entire strategy!” she said holding her head as realization dawned on arnav

She was right...in his fit of rage and anger he did not realize this important fact...they should have tactfully removed her...he swore under his breath as khushi looked at him with an irritated look in her eyes “Tomorrow morning...first thing, we have to sit and rework on our strategy...we will have to delay our plans for a few more days...” she said as arnav nodded mutely

He had never felt like a bigger fool....how did not not think of this!...he closed his eyes and took a deep breath as he felt a feather light touch of his shoulder...he opened his eyes and saw khushi look at him with a determined face

“Arnav...I'm not that prejudiced that I won't feel gratitude towards someone who did take a rash decision...but to save my name...so thank you....” she said as arnav nodded at her, not understanding what to feel.

“But you need to let me handle my team from now on...and please try and include me in your decisions...otherwise I don't think we will be able to work together” she said as he looked into her eyes...startled at her words...would she really stop working with him?

“Also..one last thing arnav...I know what you think about me...things said in anger are often what we really feel...but i do want to clarify, that I am not in this company because of my name only...i am here as much because of my work and dedication as you are...” she said as arnav tried to speak...but she held up her hand to finish her words

“This was a mutually formed company arnav...just like you were chosen from Raizada & Sons...i was chosen from Gupta Mills...so I could have thrown the same words in your face...but i wont” she said as arnav stood in front of her with guilt and regret shining in his eyes.

For the first time in his life...he was left speechless...he could not do anything but see her walk away...and as she disagreed from his line of sight, he could not help but feel a deep pang in his heart...something which he had not felt for a long time...something which was alien to him. He knew he had to fix this...and he will be damned if he doesn't.

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

“Rimmy! There you are” Arun mehra said with a huge smile as he walked towards her...he saw his ex-wife stiffen as he approached and that left an unsettling feeling in his stomach...this had never happened before....usually she was very restless when he came near her...he knew she still harbored feelings for him...and that was his ace of cards

“Arun” she said coldly as her eyes seemed to have lost the usual shine she had for him...he gulped uneasily as he walked more towards her “Rimmy...what's wrong? Are you not well?” he said as he tried to place his palm against her forehead, but was shocked when she stepped back and looked away

“Your wife is standing a few feet away from you...you should not be touching other women in front of her” she said as Arun frowned at her...he looked back to see his current wife fanning herself and talking loudly on the phone to one of her friends

“Oh who cares...you know how things are between both of us...you know I don't care about her...not as much as i do about you” he said as garima looked at him with disgust “You know what! That is exactly what i don't get....you claim to hate her and keep telling me that you did the biggest mistake by leaving me for her...then why are you still with her?” she asked him in a deadpan voice

Arun took his handkerchief out to dab on the sweat beads that had formed on his forehead...he really did not know what had brought up this avatar of his ex-wife...but he was really worried now...he tried smiling at her when a commotion behind them alerted both of them.

Garima looked ahead to see Monica and Arnav's girlfriend Sheetal talking in loud voices...they were not that loud to attract attention...but something about their body language and narrowed eyes looked fishy...she started walking towards them when Arun held her wrist

“Oh leave them...one is an ex-model and other is a current one...they must be having a spat on who is better” he said as he tried to steer Garima away from them when a strong grip held his arm and pushed him away from Garima

“Leave my mother alone...and if you have even a little bit of decency then you'll control your wife and your....your... plaything....i heard everything they both spoke about...and I am glad that you are increasing the mountain of disgust i have for you day by day...” she said, her words full of loathing

“I really don't know how much more you can fall...but hear this Mr Mehra...if i see you anywhere near my mother, I swear to God..I'll kill you! Do you understand?” khushi said quiet loudly to get the attention of a few people around them...but she did not care.

She quickly pulled her mother along with her and started walking towards the other side of the grounds..away from the drama that would eventually unfold in front of everyone...she looked back to see Arnav and his family observing the argument which now saw Arun Mehra pulling his wife away while Sheetal seemed to be clinging on to a livid looking arnav

The last thought she thought before she took her mother for some refreshments, was that Arnav Singh Raizada would be firing Sheetal too...and this time...she was all for it..hell yeah.