Chapter 32

Mature Content Ahead....!

Khushi walked with her phone stuck to her left ear as she worked out some last minute details of the engagement party; she finished her call with the event manager who was probably running around in the huge house trying to tie-up the loose ends and stood quietly by the first floor bannister looking down at the beautifully decked up grand ballroom of the Gupta Mansion...Aradhana had never looked better and she knew her dear departed great-nanaji agreed.

She smiled fondly as she saw her mother and maasi walk out of the room behind her to join her near the vantage point from which she was gazing down “This looks perfect Khushi!” her maasi said as she side hugged her niece... “I am so glad we gave in to ma's insistence of having Akhil's engagement here...this house really did need a grand celebration to come of the gloom it had settled in recently” she said with a sad smile as Garima held khushi's hand

“I cannot agree more Tripti, Its our son's engagement...and we have to make it large! Don't we Khushi?” she asked her daughter whose laughter rang amongst the long corridor “Off course mamma...I would not have had it any other way....and its fatso's engagement...so it has to be the best! After he's chosen the best Bhabhi for me!” khushi said quickly glancing at the room the two woman had just come out of; where Mihika, Akhil's fiancee sat with her family getting ready

“Yes, she truly is a beauty...can't believe our kids have grown up so soon na rimmy?” Tripti said as she swiped some kohl off her eyes and placed it behind khushi's ear “And you especially my darling...very soon, your prince charming will be coming this way to sweep you off your feet...and I won't be surprised if you find him tonight...with the way you are looking, every man there would be looking at you only” she said as Khushi rolled her eyes

“Ya right maasi...” she said as her eyes sought the main entrance of the room where the many invited guests were streaming in from...it had been 5 days since she had met Arnav and it was killing her to not find him here on time...the last day they met was in a meeting with their team, the day after he had come to visit her mother...they were supposed to spend the day together, but some issue at R&S's Delhi office and a disagreement with its northern region partners had taken him there to sort things out

Since then they had only spoken on the phone wherever either of them had got some free time...Khushi had been busy trying to work out the D'Blanc account with their legal team to get the stuff ready for the contract signing while Arnav was bogged down by his work in Delhi...they were desperate to finally see each other tonight after such a long hiatus and the fact that it was Akhil's engagement made it even better

The engagement that was supposed to take place at the Grand Hyatt had been shifted to Aradhana owing to some structural problems the hotel was facing...it was a very last minute decision, but after persistent insistence from Khushi and her nani, her maasi's family had finally given in instead of going to look for another five star hotel to hold the function in.

Khushi had assured them that she will hire the best event planning company and she most definitely had held her part of the bargain...the house looked spectacular with a barrage of white and pink orchids with sheer net curtains of pale pink and Jhumars* made of white roses decking the entire grand room...the ornate architecture of the room lent a regal feel to the place while the strategically placed lights gave the place a magical feeling

She sighed as the rest of the women came out of the room along with the bride and walked down the large curved staircase to descend downstairs. Khushi adjusted the pallu of the beautiful designer saree [see below] she wore and looked once again at the entrance to see if he had arrived...her eyes lit up as she saw his grandfather walk in with a very elegant lady by his side...she strained her eyes to catch a glimpse of Arnav but could not see him anywhere

She texted him again out of disappointment 'Are you coming or nt? I will not ask u again' she wrote and sent to add another text to her growing pile of unanswered ones...she had been trying to call him since last three hours when she knew his flight would have landed back in Mumbai, but had gotten his phone switched off the entire time, she was worried and annoyed....she had also been tempted to call Lavanya and ask her about Arnav but had canceled that thought since it was a sunday and her holiday.

She looked back at her silent phone and walked down dejectedly to join the others as they gathered around the bride and groom....she heard her name being called and looked up to find her nani and Sanjay uncle, her maasi's husband standing with Arnav's grandfather and the woman who had come along with him “Khushi...you already know Raizadaji, come and meet his daughter Padmini” she said as khushi stood in front of them and joined her hands in a namaste

“Oh, so this is Khushi....” the woman said as she smiled at warmly and caressed her face gently “I have heard a lot about you beta...but no one told me you were so beautiful” she said as khushi smiled and blushed slightly at the admiration...many people had commented on her looks and praised her beauty before, but it had affected her deeply when Arnav's bua had done the same...as if, she was approving her.

“I hope you have heard all good things aunty” Khushi said as Padmini laughed gaily “Off course...Arnav doesn't talk much, but baba has spoken about you quite a lot...you may not remember but I do recollect you as a small chubby little girl who used to come to our house when you were young...when Bhaiyya and bhabhi were..” she said and stopped suddenly as emotions overtook her

“I understand” khushi said squeezing her hand as her nani, her uncle and arnav's dadaji looked at her “Its always difficult to talk about loved ones who are not with you...I wish I would have remembered them and my visits, but I truly don't” khushi said sincerely as Paddu bua kept her other hand on her's “Oh, don't you worry...I will tell you everything...at least what ever i remember that is...I too was very young you know...in fact, you should not call me Aunty...call me Paddu bua only...I'd really like that” she said as khushi smiled and nodded

“Khushi, why don't you go and see if Mihika needs anything...she seems to be very stressed” Sanjay said as she khushi nodded with a smile, she said quick good byes with a promise of catching up with Paddu bua soon....she started walking briskly across the room when she banged into a startled Payal “Oh...sorry...” Khushi said and stopped as she spotted Payal in front of her “You!” Khushi said as payal looked at her with a confused expression

“Yes, me...Payal Dinkaran” she said with a sarcastic smile as khushi narrowed her eyes “What was the meaning of teasing me in front of my mother the other day huh? Would you like it if i teased you in front of your father?? and that too when you don't know me at all!” khushi said as payal shrugged her shoulders “Hey! Your guy didn't seem to mind it...he is, your guy right??” she said as khushi pursed her lips

“That is none of your business...and it would be better for you to understand that now...” she said as payal raised her hands, her eyebrows lifting up in amusement “Okey...I really did not know you will take soo much offense...I'll be sure to zip it the next time...” she said as khushi calmed down a little bit “Fine...sorry I did not mean to be so rude...its just that this day is not going the way I intended” she said as payal nodded her head

“Yeah, I can see that....or cannot see that is” Payal said as khushi looked on in confusion “I beg your pardon?” she asked her as she grinned widely “I cannot see your 'Guy' anywhere” she said making air-quotes as she said guy giving khushi another reason to fume at her...but before khushi could say another words she quickly walked away from her exclaiming 'Food!' to which khushi gave her an annoyed look while her lips curved up a bit “Bhookad!* Reminds me of me” she thought as she shook her head and walked towards the main dais where Akhil and Mihika sat.

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

Khushi had tried, but she could not hide her disappointment anymore...the rings had been exchanged...the guests had all wished the lovely couple and now everyone was having dinner, with all the young one's dancing to the DJ's tunes...she sighed as she looked at her cousin and his fiancee dancing cheek to cheek to a vey romantic hindi song and started making her way up the stairs...she really wanted some quietude after all that mingling.

She had already spent a considerable amount of time with Paddu bua and Arnav's dadaji who had regaled her with many lovely stories about the olden days...not that many of her's since there went't that many to tell...but more of Arnav and his bother Akash...it had left a smile on her face as she imagined their 'Chotey' in all those situations...the talks had made her more restless to see him, but after not receiving any message from him till now, she had given up on the hope of seeing him today

It made her fume that he had promised her last night that he will come directly from Airport to the function here, but had probably not bothered to...he had not even answered her calls or replied to her texts...she wanted to see how he would respond to the cold shoulder she was planning on serving him tomorrow morning...even his bua and grandfather had not spoken about why Arnav wasn't here...instead they had told her how Akash was supposed to come, but had got some university work at the last minute

'Bloody Arnav Singh Raizada' she thought as a soft breath caressed her ears making her tingle all over “Thinking about me?” she turned around to come face to face with his caramel eyes that held passion, desire and longing all together...she kept staring at him as if wondering if he was figment of her imagination or was he really here “I'm here...in the flesh” he said, once again reading her mind as she stepped back a few steps

“What are you doing here!” she asked him as she realized they were alone in the upstairs terrace where she stood gazing at the starlit sky “When did you come?” she asked him as he chuckled and came forward to hold her by the shoulders “Let me see you first” he said as his bold gaze lingered over her curves lovingly wrapped up in the soft material of the sari

“Let me go...I don't want to talk to you” she said shrugging his hands off her and started walking out of the terrace...she had reached the corridor near her room when Arnav yanked her by her arms and pushed her inside her room, then proceeded to lock the door before standing with his hands behind him observing her “Now, let me see you” he said as khushi threw daggers at him with her angry eyes “What do you think you are doing? I have to go down..” she said as he went to stand by the door

“No one is waiting for you down there...Everyone is busy with their own thing...and all the formalities are done..” he said as he gazed at her with hunger in his eyes....he saw her stiffen before walking towards him, her hand on the knob of the door near his hips...he quickly covered her hand with his before bending down to her ear “I missed you babe” he said as khushi closed her eyes

“No you did not...otherwise you would have at least texted me back...but you obviously had better things to do” she said as he pressed his body closer to hers...his front meshing with her exposed back “I lost my phone at the airport...I had gone to get a new phone before coming here, that's why i got late...plus my flight had anyways gotten delayed...sorry...I did not call you because I thought you were busy with the engagement...I know how much stressed out you were for all this” he said as khushi relaxed against him

“Your'e not lying are you?” she asked him as he removed a brand new iPhone 5 and showed it to her.... “Check the phone book” he said as she slid it open and saw the contacts...there was only one name in it 'Khushi'....she smiled as she looked up sideways to finally face him “Only my number?” she asked as he nodded “Its the only one i remembered...I don't even know my home number” he said as she shuddered at the intense look in his eyes

She turned around completely to wind her hands around his neck “I'm sorry...I thought that you had forgotten...” she said as arnav touched his forehead to hers “Forgotten? How could I forget khushi when all I thought all night and all day today was finally holding you in my arms...I missed you soo much that it hurts...” he said as khushi blushed

“I did not even meet anyone downstairs...As I came in I saw you walking upstairs...I followed you a few seconds later without meeting anyone...I just had to see you first” he said as he dropped a gentle kiss on her forehead, making khushi close her eyes in satisfaction.

She was finally in his arms...she was with him....she did not want anything else....she opened her eyes seconds before his lips crashed on hers, stirring a deep sweet ache within her...she had been anticipating the kiss, but the raw passion that seemed to have hit them right away left her completely breathless.

She pressed herself more on to him as his hands went to her bare, beautifully curved waist, he sucked on her lips as she opened up to welcome his probing tongue...they had missed this immensely and the feel of their tongues dancing with each other was too overwhelming to control for them as arnav impatiently tried to take off her saree...his fingers first taking off the delicate silver and diamond pin holding it together

Khushi too could not wait to get his clothes off as she threw his coat away while her hands went to his neck to deftly undo his tie...they walked backwards as khushi fumbled with his buttons before untucking his shirt and pulling it off him completely...her fingers found his firm muscled chest as her nails grazed over his sensitized nipples, making him hiss in pleasure

Khushi trailed her lips over his jawline, tracing his strong jaw with her hot tongue, making Arnav's flesh burn in the process...she nipped at his neck and shoulders before dipping her head towards his chest...she boldly kissed him across the vast expanse of his pecs before taking his nipple in her mouth...sucking on them while her hands undid his belt

Arnav groaned as his body stiffened beyond comprehension under Khushi's skillful mouth....he undid the rest of her sari before unravelling her perfect hairdo, the gorgeous mass of her shiny fragrant hair finally free for him to clutch on to...he held her face once again, pulling her up to kiss her fully on the mouth as her hands dipped inside his pants..he helped her undo them completely before untying the single dori that held her flimsy blouse to her body

He was completely aroused as he saw her ample breasts bare in front of him...he hardly wasted another second as he devoured her then and there...his hands traveling over her taut body as she clung onto him for support...his mouth sucked and nipped at her hardened peaks as she pushed him on her bed...he lay back on the plush downy duvet as she stroked him over his boxers..finally taking them off him

“I need you soo badly” he said as khushi smiled against him “me too” she said as he suddenly flipped her over to lean over her...he divested her of the last silky materials before pulling off her soaked lace panties off her...he wanted to do much more to her, but the need and desire to be one was so strong that they both were more than ready to combust

As he slid inside her welcoming heat, he knew he had come home...all those days of being away from her had tortured him in ways he had never felt were possible...he thrust deep inside her as she met him equally at each thrust, her moans getting him to the edge as they finally reached their climax together...the shattering aftershocks vibrating through their bodies as they sought each others embrace to lie in

As they lay entwined with each other, savoring the rush they had just felt, both closed their eyes for a few more seconds to feel the unsteady rhythm of their hearts coming back to normal...they knew they had to get back downstairs but neither wanted to leave the cocoon they had created between them...

“We need to get back Arnav...” Khushi said as she leaned towards him and stroked the sweaty hair off his forehead... “Do we need to?” he asked her opening one eye as she smiled at him and nodded “Yes...i'm sure someone might have seen you...and I too have been gone for quite some time...” she said as arnav got up and pulled her closer to himself

“I know...I can't wait for the day we won't have to sneak about” he said as khushi nodded and kissed him on his cheek “...soon baby...” she said as arnav smiled at her, pulling her in for another lingering kiss as they finally got up and got dressed...Khushi tried to do the best she could of her hairdo while arnav tried to tame his wayward hair

“You go first...then I will come after a while” she said as Arnav nodded and started walking towards the door...but he turned around at the last minute and pulled her in his arms for another kiss “I won't be able to kiss you before i leave...this is good bye and sweet dreams” he said as khushi smiled against his lips “sweet dreams” she said as he pulled open her door and slipped out before anyone could see him....unaware of two pairs of eyes who had witnessed it

*Jhoomar - Chandelier

*Bhookad - Someone who eats all the time!

Khushi's Saree

Chapter 31

"You know I have already taken down her statement right?...i don't understand why you want to talk to her now..as it is, she is very scared" detective Naik said as he paced in front of a cool looking Avinash who was browsing through some of the initial reports that were handed to him...he ignored the detective who kept ranting on about how it was not necessary to meet Sheetal and Monica and how they had already given their statements

"Enough Naik!" Avinash said in a slow but menacing voice...he got up to come and stand in front of him "This is a joint investigation now, so I suppose you know that I can interrogate anyone and everyone related or non-related to this case...so please refrain from giving me a lecture on what I should do and should not do, understand!" he said making Naik stop midway, his nostrils flaring in annoyance

"Plus I really don't think that Sheetal is any kind of a victim...yes, she saw the murder happen in front of her eyes...but as far as being scared is concerned...the woman was found frolicking and socializing around Various Night-clubs and page three parties since last few days...giving exaggerated comments to who ever asked her about the cold blooded murder.." he said as Naik stiffened

"Now, if you don't mind...I would like to proceed for my questioning and you can go back to your office...I still wonder why you are so against letting me speak to them that you had to come all the way from Churchgate to Bandra for discouraging me thus" he said as Naik got defensive "What are you trying to say huh?...don't you dare..." he started saying when Avinash kept a firm hand on his shoulder refraining him from saying anything further

"Careful Naik...I am your senior...don't try and mess with my investigation and do not make assumptions on my behalf...unlike you, I believe in giving everyone a fair chance" Avinash said before picking up his files and leaving a fuming Naik behind in his cabin.

...

"So! I really think that the murder was committed by Arnav and that Khushi together...for sure!" Sheetal said with a sultry smile at the handsome inspector in front of her...Avinash had been interrogating her since the past 15 minutes and was already having a headache talking to this woman who kept alternating between examining her deep red painted nails and batting her eyelashes at him

Avinash sighed as he got up and walked slowly around the table they were sitting at "So, you are saying with conviction that Arnav and Khushi are guilty...what made you think that?" Avinash asked humoring her as she pursed her lips "Umm...I think its because Arnav was jealous that i was with Arun and obviously that hurt his ego and Khushi...umm...well I suppose she just hated Arun anyways...so it makes perfect sense!" she said as Avinash took a deep breath

"Have you, by any chance spoken about these assumptions to anyone outside?" he asked her as she thought for a bit and shook her head "No...not really...I mean, the last thing i want is for Arnav to know that i'm on to him...he'll probably have me shot as well you know..." she said rolling her eyes as Avinash once again came and sat opposite her

"Ok...so Sheetal...I think you should know something...now remember this is very very confidential and i'm only telling you this because I would hate a beautiful woman like you to face any charges" he said empathetically as Sheetal's face went pale "Charges? Me? Why?" she asked him as he once again sighed deeply

"You see Sheetal...you are the only eye witness to what happened that day...no one is there to refute what you saw and the exact circumstances under which the murder happened" he said and stopped for a dramatic pause before continuing again "So, its actually your word against everyone else's...who is to say that you did not pull the trigger? After all the body was not the way it should be if he was shot directly at the door.." he said as Sheetal sat upright in her chair

"No...after i came out of the shock, i moved him a bit to see if he was still alive...I...I swear i did not do anything" she said as fear laced her voice "Sheetal..listen, its ok..." Avinash said as he carefully saw her worried face, now totally devoid of any color...just a few more words...he thought as he cleared his throat "No one is accusing you right now...but circumstances are not in your favor...especially because" he said as Sheetal suddenly looked up, biting her lips.

"What? Because of what?" she asked as Avinash looked down "Monica...she has told us of a woman who used to call Arun all the time...she suspects its that woman who had him killed...and..." he said as Sheetal nearly jumped out of her seat and took the bait "Is she accusing me? That B***h!" Sheetal said as Avinash made her sit back "Calm down Sheetal...she has not explicitly taken your name...but has hinted around it" he said as Sheetal shook her head vigorously

"I can't believe this! That W***e...what does she think of herself huh! I am very sure it was she only who had him killed...Arun used to tell me about her promiscuous ways...she is a bitch of the first degree...did you know her eye was always on Arun's property? But due to the pre-nup they signed, she would't have gotten a penny if they divorced...No wonder she had him killed!...I just know it was her who had him shot!" she said getting up and pacing the room...completely un aware of a small smile playing on Avinash's lips

...

Khushi crept in slowly through her mother's bedroom door to find her propped on the bed with her eyes closed…her bandaged arm was laying on a soft pillow on her side as she rested against the cushioned headboard. She smiled softly as she walked towards her with the cup of green tea and gently nudged her on her shoulder

"Mamma…tea?" she asked as Garima smiled and opened her eyes to watch khushi blow on the hot mint and ginger tea and hold it to Garima's lips… "Babu…it's only a sprain…I don't understand why you are not letting me move at all!" Garima said with a fond smile as she lifted her other hand and took it from her

" I know mamma…but I worry…we leave you alone for three days and you end up breaking your arm" Khushi said as she climbed on the huge bed and sat next to her mother "Sprained…not broken!" Garima said as she chuckled at the annoyed look on Khushi's face

After Arnav had dropped her home around 4 in the morning, Khushi had come back to a very silent home…she had quickly glanced into her mother's room to find her sleeping awkwardly but had not thought much of it and had gone to sleep in her room, falling immediately into an exhausted sleep.

When she had woken up at around 8 in the morning, she had gone down to get some tea, only to see her mother sitting at the breakfast table with her hand in a sling…Garima had been very happy to see her daughter home after three days and had gotten up suddenly to hug her, only to wince in pain.

When Khushi had asked her in a terribly concerned voice, Garima had narrated the incident wherein she had slipped and sprained her left arm at the school last evening while leaving for home…the driver had helped her to the doctor's clinic where they had bandaged her hand and put her arm in a sling , she had to keep it on for a day or two for the sprain to get better.

Khushi had been beside her since then, refusing to leave her mother alone, even Laxamma could not convince Khushi to go to office or take some rest.

"Khushi, you should have gone to office...I am fine now…I can even move my hand properly…see" Garima said wincing as she moved her hand about "Mamma! Stop…I took a personal off today! Whats the big deal…even Arnav is fine with it" she said as she remembered the text she had sent him early morning…he had called her right away telling her to take the day off

"Ok baba…fine…but you should go and unpack now…Laxamma was cribbing about your still packed luggage" Garima said as Khushi got up and left for her room…Thanks to her hostel and then studying abroad, she was still not used to seeing her mom in any kind of physical pain and had panicked to see her such in the morning

She had just opened up her bag when her phone started ringing…she smiled looking at the name and heard Arnav's husky voice, making her go weak in the knees "Khushi? Is aunty better now?" he asked her as she sat down on her bed and sighed "Yes, she is much better now Arnav…and I'm so glad I stayed at home today…she is seriously such a child!" Khushi said as Arnav chuckled

"So that means you did not miss me at all!" Arnav said as Khushi giggled "Nope…not at all!" she said as she rolled on her bed…her open luggage abandoned "Liar…" he said as she closed her eyes and imagined being with him "Yes…I am a liar…I missed you a lot…and that's so crazy since I saw you less than 24 hrs ago" she said sitting up as she felt him smile into the phone

"Well in that case, I can't make you miss me longer" he said as Khushi narrowed her eyes "What do you mean?" she asked him as she heard someone knock on her door… "Hold on a minute Arnav…someone's at the door" she said as she scrambled off her bed and went to open the door to find Laxamma standing there with a smile "Mr Raizada is here to see your mamma" she said as Khushi looked on with shocked eyes

"He is?" she asked Laxamma who nodded at her, a gentle smile on her face… "You are?" Khushi asked arnav who was still on the phone with her "Yes…now come down and get me" he said as Khushi smiled brightly before walking out of her room…only to return back in a second to check her appearance..she grimaced as she saw her unwashed hair tied in a careless pony and her old comfy tracks and threadbare vest that she preferred to wear at home

Not having any time to change, she left her hair open before going down with Laxamma who stood observing her keenly "He is romba good looking" Laxamma said winking at her to which Khushi rolled her eyes "Ya, so?" she said as Laxamma nudged her "You are single…its time you find yourself a good boy..I'm just saying" the old woman said as Khushi blushed deeply

She was still wondering what made Laxamma say such a thing when Arnav's profile came into view…she sighed as she looked at him texting someone…he looked up as Khushi approached him and Laxamma went back into the kitchen to get something for the guest "Hi" Khushi said as Arnav glanced around to check if anyone was there…he came forwards and dropped a quick kiss on her forehead "Hi back!" he said as Khushi's eyes darted around the room

"Arnav! Not here…this house is full of spies!" she said as arnav gave her an amused look "Ok, then you tell me where?" he said winking at her as she hit him lightly on his arm "Shut up!" she said as he grinned at her "Khushi…how is aunty now? Can I come and meet her?" he asked with concern..the earlier playful mood now somber

Khushi smiled as she nodded and started walking him towards her mother room "She is better now Arnav…I know its not that big a deal…but It just scared me a bit…after the recent spate of bad things happening around me.." she said as arnav held her elbow to stop her "Don't say that Khushi…" he said as khushi held his hand "Its true Arnav…its like I'm Jinxed…the only thing going right for me is my work…and…you" she said honestly as Arnav squeezed her hand

As they reached Garima's room, Khushi knocked on her bedroom door before opening it slightly "Mamma…Arnav's here to see you" Khushi said as Garima straightened up while Arnav and Khushi walked towards her "Arnav…you here?" Garima asked surprised to which Arnav smiled "Yes, Khushi told me about your accident" he said as Garima gave Khushi a stern look

"He Bhagwan! Arnav, this girl will drive me mad! Its just a sprain beta…she has made this into such a huge thing…you came all the way to check up on me!" she said, now smiling at Arnav who shook his head "Not at all aunty, your house is on way to mine…I was just concerned, so I came to see you" he said as Garima turned towards Khushi

"Don't let him go without dinner…" she said to which Khushi nodded "Arnav…I will no take a no" she said as Arnav shook his head "No aunty,I'll have to take a rain check this time...My bua just got back from Vaishnov devi trip and since I stayed back in my apartment last night I still haven't met her…she will probably have my head if I don't get back" he said as Khushi pouted while Garima nodded understandingly

"Ok beta, but I will soon be calling you all for dinner here…ma was also saying that she had been meaning to call you all over since the venture happened" she said as Arnav nodded "We'd love that Aunty" he said giving a quick glance towards Khushi who was trying to look away…after a few more minutes of exchanging pleasantries as Arnav got up to leave, they heard a knock on the bedroom room

"Hi aunty" Payal said as she walked inside gingerly into the room…Garima smiled at her brightly while Arnav and Khushi looked at each other, remembering the other day when Payal had caught them together "Hi Payal…how are you beta?" Garima asked her as Payal smiled slightly

"I'm good aunty… Papa told me about your mishap….I just thought I'll come over and see if your'e ok" she said as Garima suddenly went pink…she hoped no one noticed her flushed face….the incident yesterday had put a damper on her and Shashi's plans, making her regret being so careless…she had told him not to come over to avoid any unwanted gossip from the house help.

"I'm much better now Payal beta…thanks for coming over…how's your college going?" she asked her as Payal smiled shyly "Its going great aunty.." Payal said suddenly noticing Arnav and Khushi who seemed to be very quite "Uh..Hi Khushi…and uh…" Payal said trying to remember the man's name "Arnav…" he said as Payal nodded "yeah…Arnav" she said as both arnav and Khushi said soft hi's

"Anyways aunty…I gotta go…I'm glad to see your'e better" she said as Garima slightly got up and smiled "Keep coming payal and bring your brother too…you know you kids are welcome to come over anytime" she said as payal smirked at Khushi and arnav "Off course aunty…I especially love your mini theatre…its soo….cosy" she said as khushi's eyes widened while arnav pursed his lips from laughing out

...

Khushi stepped out of her mother's room with Arnav a few minutes after Payal had left...she was still annoyed at the girl for teasing them about the incident "I swear Arnav...I could just..." Khushi said as Arnav held her by her shoulders "Hey...calm down baby...she was just joking...she's young, let it be...my brother has done worse things to me you know!" he said as Khushi started walking agitatedly towards her room with Arnav following her

"That's your brother Arnav...Payal is not my sister...she is no one to me...the gall of that girl to..." she said as they reached her room...she hardly had time to finish her sentence as arnav closed her door and pushed her against the door to take her pouting lips in his...she immediately relaxed in his arms and let his lips devour hers...the control he held on to for the past half an hour since he saw her walk into the living room in that completely at home look, had now come off explosively in the isolation of her room

He pressed his body into hers as she latched her fingers into his hair pulling his face more towards hers to deepen the drugging kiss...they kissed like they were starved off each other, each giving their all to feel that sense of satisfaction one feels in the arms of their lover...arnav raised Khushi above him to kiss the side of her neck while she wrapped her legs around his waist, still hoisted up in the air

As his mouth trailed above her now exposed cleavage, thanks to Arnav yanking her top down, Khushi held on to Arnav's neck more tightly while she ground her hips against him "Khushhi...don't do that..." arnav said huskily as he cupped her tender breasts in his hands, squeezing them to get a deep moan from Khushi who could feel him harden against her

"We should sss..stop" Khushi said hoarsely as she slackened her hold on him unwillingly while arnav pulled her top back up and brought her down to her feet...he kissed her again softly on her swollen lips as she responded with equally sweet passion...they finally pulled away, knowing that they won't be able to stop if they continued a minute longer..

Khushi took a deep breath as arnav stepped away from her but kept his hands on either side of her on the door... "What do you do to me Khushi?...I can't seem to control myself around you..." he said as khushi bit her lip "Me too Arnav...how will we work together if we can't even stay a minute without undressing each other" she said without thinking to which he smirked

"So you undress me every time you look at me?" he asked her teasingly as a soft pink glow highlighted her already flushed skin "As if you don't" she said as arnav shook his head "I don't need to Khushi...You turn me on even in old tracks and vest" he said making Khushi hug him tighter "I'm coming to office tomorrow" she said as arnav smiled against her hair

"You better...but only if aunty is fine ok?" he said as they pulled out of the hug...Khushi adjusted Arnav's hair which was completely tousled and straightened his tie and coat that had gone haywire "Fine, but tomorrow we need to brief the team about everything...we can't leave it for long" she said as arnav held her hands in his "I'll do it if you can't make it..." he said as Khushi smiled warmly

"I'll be there...otherwise mamma will break her other hand beating the pulp out of me" she said as arnav kissed her softly on her forehead "Bye...i'll see you tomorrow then" he said as Khushi looked at him, feeling a kind of warmth growing in her chest "see you" she said as arnav gave her one last caressing look before carefully leaving her room with Khushi watching him walk away...she did not know why but she was missing him already...what does one call this feeling?

Chapter 30

“Thank you so much for coming Payal” Akash said as he met her outside the mall, he gave her a grateful smile as she nodded and smiled back at him “Sure Akash...its not a problem...I was headed here anyways” she said as they fell in step with each other and walked towards the entrance of the mall

“No..seriously, your'e a life saver! If it wasn't for my sister...” he said as payal looked at him sideways while walking towards a women's departmental store “Its really ok Akash...you need my help in choosing something for your sister right? And I am actually pretty good at buying gifts for others...so...” she said as akash opened the glass door for her

“I would have asked zee, but she's not really like a girly girl...you know...and i really don't know any other girls...like friends i mean...I'm kinda shy” he said with an exaggerated shyness that payal found endearing “Haha....allright...now tell me, what kind of stuff does she like...I mean would she prefer a dress, perfume, accessories, shoes...” she started counting on her fingers when akash felt himself go absolutely clueless.

“Uh...I don't know...maybe a nice bag?” he asked her as she nodded and led him towards the handbag section...after surfing around for a while she selected a few bags and showed them to Akash... “What do you think?” she asked him as he looked least interested in them, since all his focus was on the gorgeous girl in front of him

He felt like a class A jerk for deceiving her like this, especially since he had started feeling a little more strongly for her...and he had already lied to her about having a sister...so it didn't really qualify as another lie...plus he really wanted to meet her...out of the college that is...they had interacted a few times on campus but he really had not had a chance to meet her off it...this was the perfect opportunity

“Akash! Hello...” Payal clicked her fingers in front of his dazed face which got his attention back to the task in hand “Uh...I think this dark red one will be nice...” he said as payal smiled and kept the rest back...she gestured him to follow her to the cashier and waited till he made the purchase “Won't you buy anything?” he asked her as she shook her head

“No...its ok...I had only come to pick up my dad's dry cleaning and to buy some pastries for my brother from the patisserie here...I'll head home after that” she said as akash picked up the bag...he really wanted her to stay back for a while longer... “Hold on...don't you want it wrapped?” she asked him as she took the bag from him and went to the gift wrapping section

“Whats your sister's name?” she asked as she instructed the man behind the counter to pack the bag in a pretty pink wrapper...she turned back to a completely blank Akash as he looked on with a horrified look “Akash...what's her name?” she asked him as he blurted out “Arnie,,,”

Payal twisted her face comically before turning towards him “Arnie?...whats her full name?” she asked him as he racked his brain...the only name he could think of was his brother's pet name and it most definitely wasn't a woman's

“Her...name...her name is actually Arnasha...” he said slapping himself mentally for making up a pathetic excuse of a name that sounded more like a mythical place than an actual name “Arnasha? Its different...but nice” she said as akash looked on dreamily...maybe the'll name their daughter Arnasha...he thought dreamily as they finished the wrapping and left from there.

“Why do you have that goofy grin on your face?” Payal asked, observing him as he quickly sobered up “Oh...nothing...just like that...anyways...I was thinking, since its lunch time...why don't we grab a quick byte?” he asked with a hopeful look as payal nodded and smiled “Sure...I was hoping you'd say that....I'm starving!...i'll pick up my stuff after lunch” she said as Akash did a mental jig.

They had lunch in a small cafe lining the huge mall from outside...they spoke about their families...with Akash including his non-existent sister and a more modest lifestyle while Payal spoke very highly of her father and her naughty but irritating brother....she told him about her life in Bangalore and how she thought it would be difficult to start over again in Mumbai

“Hmm...so what do you think now? You think you'll be able to fit in now?” he asked her as she smiled shyly “Yes...I think i will...i'm glad I met you and zee and all the new friends I made in class...I suppose everything will work out just fine now” she said as she lowered her lashes and sipped her drink while both looked at each other over the rim of their glasses...the air around them changing...the wind bringing in new feelings and truck load of trouble along with it.

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“So! I..I'm not sure where we should go for...for our dinner?” Shashi spoke on the phone as he heard Garima laugh freely on the other end “Shashi! It really doesn't matter...I'm fine with anything” she said as he smiled on the other end “Ok, fine...then i'll book a table in Peshawar? Is that ok? Since you like Mughlai food...” he said as Garima pursed her lips trying to hold in a laugh

“Oh? But I like chinese food...when did I say I like mughlai?” she said in a mock serious tone which mounted shashi's confusion “Really? I don't know why i thought that then..fine then in that case I know this really good Pan-Asian restaurant at the Hilton...” he started saying when he heard Garima laughing

“I'm just joking Shashi...I like mughlai...but can we go to a smaller, lesser known place? Its just that with the on going case and Khushi also not being here...” she said as Shashi nodded in understanding “Off course...I understand...and you are right...the last thing we want is anyone recognizing you and seeing you with me...tell you what....Let me surprise you with something...I won't tell you anything yet” he said as Garima smiled fondly

“Sounds great....but you should know that I'm not a big fan of surprises” she giggled as he laughed along with her “I shall keep that in mind...” he said as they laughed a bit more and quieted down “So...how is Khushi doing? I heard they got the D'Blanc account..?” he asked as Garima smiled proudly

“Yes, they did...she called me last night from Paris to tell me about the same...I'm so happy for them...both of them are working really hard for this and I just hope the new company rises above all the others” she said as Shashi nodded in agreement “Yes...that they are....both Arnav and Khushi are very capable and with their astute business minds and ethics , they will do very well...” he said wondering if he should talk to Garima about what he had noticed between both of them.

But then on second thought he let it go....he and Garima had still not reached that level of relationship where such things could be discussed without the atmosphere being awkward “Anyways....I better let you go...let me know where and when I should meet you” Garima said as shashi smiled “I will...also...have you told your mother or Khushi about this?...I mean our dinner date?” he asked as Garima smiled nervously

“I haven't....not yet....Khushi is out of town and so is ma...it won't be appropriate to tell them on the phone...I....to tell you the truth I don't want them to know anything about this yet...I know it will be difficult to keep it away from them and you might also not want ma to know yet, owing to your professional...” she said when Shashi interrupted her

“Garima...my professional relationship with your mother and daughter does not worry me....I am true in my pursuit of you and I really like you a lot for anything like this to change my decision or influence me...I will be perfectly okay with whenever you want them to know about us...” he said as Garima felt a huge weight lift off her heart...she was worried if Shashi would want to keep this a secret but his honestly made her feel light with happiness...she was convinced now that she had done the right thing by agreeing to date him.

“Thanks Shashi...your words have really made me feel lighter...I'll let you know when i wish to tell them about us...now, I really need to go...my lunch break is over and you too need to get back to work...I'll see you tonight” she said as they said their goodbyes. Garima placed her phone back into her purse and picked up the notebooks lying on her table in the staff room

She had a smile on her face as she remembered the time spent talking and having long walks with Shashi post that night when he had confessed having feelings for her...at first she was a bit nervous...but then as time passed and they got talking, she realized she had never felt this free with anyone...Shashi listened to her as she spoke about her difficult life with Arun and his betrayals...when she told him about her worries regarding Khushi and her mother's health..

And in turn he told her about how his life had been post his wife's death and how he had to struggle with the kids...she loved listening to him speak so lovingly about them and that made her open her heart to him more and more each day...she entered her class and warmly smiled at her pupils as the impending date in the evening kept her smile in tact and her heart fluttering throughout the day.

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The early morning sunlight filtered through the dark burgundy velvet curtains, giving the room a cosy reddish glow...the slight chill in the air made Khushi snuggle more into the duvet as her body relished the feeling of having arnav's strong chest plastered against her smooth back...she smiled contentedly as images from last night flashed before her eyes, making her body tingle with excitement

She ran her hand over arnav's muscled arm as it lay snugly fitted against her upper waist...she reached behind her and shifted her naked body against his as he groaned in his sleep....she could feel his hot breath over her cheek as he shifted his hands over her before laying it possessively over one glistening breast, eager for his touch...she turned slightly towards him as she felt his legs imprison hers stopping her movement completely

“Now this is what I call a good morning” arnav said huskily in her ear as he bit her softly over the lobe making her sigh in need...she moved her arm over his torso as he breathed in deeply into her hair....khushi smiled as he quickly dropped kisses over her neck and shoulders, biting her warm skin slightly as he made his way up...he kissed her chin gently as khushi lowered her head further to capture his wandering lips

She kissed him softly at first as she pulled his lower lip into her mouth...her tongue traced his mouth, prying it open as he ran a hand over her body, slipping it under her back before pulling her up for a deep mind numbing kiss...he plunged his tongue into her probing mouth as khushi whimpered under the delicious assault

“Ar...rnav..” she moaned as he shifted her completely below him while leaving her lips to trail further down...khushi arched into him as he latched onto one straining nipple...his hand massaged her other breast as he devoured her body under his insistent mouth...she clutched his hair as he went further down to reach her inner thighs... “You taste soo good babe” he said hoarsely while khushi bit her lips from moaning out loud as his mouth found her center

“I need you n..now...” she moaned as he thrust his tongue inside her warm core...his mouth closing over her engorged nub making her writhe under him.....he smiled as khushi pulled him up to kiss him again as her hands found his hardened erection...she stroked him making him gasp as he guided her dainty hands over his member... “Now...please...” she said against his mouth as he parted her legs and slid inside in one hard thrust

She cried out his name in pleasure as he filled her up again and again, making her wind her legs around his butt...he held onto her damp body as he pushed harder and faster into her, her moans making him loose control over himself as they finally came together in a shattering climax...they lay together once again cuddled amongst the sheets...both wide awake and basking in their new found togetherness

“Can we stay in all day today?” arnav asked making circles on khushi's back a few minutes later as she lay on her stomach with arnav leaning slightly over her “I don't think so Mr Raizada” she giggled as she turned and got up, pulling the covers to her chin to hide her naked form from him “Don't tell me your shy Miss Gupta” arnav said as he hooked a finger in the sheets and tried to pull them away

“Nuh...uh..” she said as she slapped his hand away “I'm not shy...I just don't want you to loose control...we really won't be able to leave this room then” she said with a grin as arnav looked on with a challenge in his eyes “Is that so? So you mean to say that you can resist me...that you won't lose control?” he asked raising an eyebrow as khushi blushed remembering her wild wonton self from last night and a few minutes earlier

“I don't lose control...I'm a woman...we don't...” she started saying when arnav suddenly got up and stretched...his  taut body displayed in pure male perfection as he flexed his muscles...he got down from the bed and turned around to let khushi ogle at his washboard abs and further down...she felt red hot desire combust inside her as she finally got a chance to see him properly...she gulped as he bent down and donned his boxers and the rest of his clothes before looking straight into her darkened eyes.

“Now do you get what I mean?” he asked with a smirk as he crept back to the bed and kissed her soundly “I better get going now...we'll go down for breakfast together” he said as she slowly nodded and sat upright on the bed, a slow smile playing on her lips “You can shower here Arnav...” she said with a grin as he quickly shook his head “Nope...too many temptations here...unless you want to join me inside” he said pointing towards the en-suite

Khushi threw her pillow at him as he dodged it and chuckled “Oh you will....soon” he said as he winked at her before walking out of the bedroom....Khushi waited till she heard the click of her room door as she laid back in the bed and stretched...a small contended smile playing on her lips as she closed her eyes for a few more winks to relax her exhausted body from their morning workout.

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“I had hoped you both would stay back longer...you could have gone to the cote'd azure for a day or two...its beautiful there this time of year and my house is always open for you two” Mr D'blanc said with a smile as they had their last lunch in Paris with the older man.

After a quick hurried breakfast at the hotel , they had reached the D'Blanc headquarters right in time for their last appointment with its senior management who would be overseeing the project once everything is finalized...the planning was in process and they had a conference call with the GR team back in Mumbai and the team appointed here...everything had gone off smoothly and now they were having a farewell lunch with Mr D'blanc at yet another of his favorite riverside restaurant, La Mer...

“We wish Monsieur..” Khushi said with a disappointed face “But we have a lot of things to take care of back home, now that things are going forward for both our company's” she said with a quick smile as arnav placed his hand over hers on the table “And we will take you up on the offer, pretty soon...” Arnav said as mr D'Blanc noted the obvious gesture...he wriggled his eyebrows at them and said a loud salut' to both of them as they finished their meal and said their goodbyes

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“Should we head to the hotel and then the airport?” khushi asked arnav a few minutes later as they strolled along the beautiful riverside to go towards their waiting car, she wound her arms around his and leaned her head on this shoulders. As Arnav smiled naughtily “Hmm...we can spend some time at the hotel before check  out you know......maybe” he said as khushi pinched him “Ow...you have got to stop physically abusing me Khushi!” he said in mock sternness as khushi looked at him with a perfect 'O'

“Me! Do you even know why i'm wearing this neck to toe hiding dress? I have bruises all over my body” she said as arnav's eyes darkened “You shouldn't have said that Khushi...now I want to examine them” he said as khushi shook her head and smiled at him “You can...but not now Mr Raizada...now we need to rush to the hotel, pack and then leave for the airport...we have a flight awaiting us” she said as Arnav groaned

“Fine...i'll agree with you this time” he said as they both settled inside the car “As if you had a choice” khushi said as arnav pulled her towards him for a kiss...his hands angled her face for deepening the kiss as khushi's arms wound around his neck...they parted after a minute or so...both panting as they remained locked in each others embrace

“This was the most wonderful and memorable trip I ever had Arnav...I wish we could stay like this....I wish we didn't have to go back...” she said as arnav tucked her hair that had come over her face “I know sweetheart...I wish it too...I wish I could keep you safe here with me...safe from whoever is trying to harm you” he said dropping a soft kiss on her forehead as a chill ran through khushi's spine...these three days of bliss had made her forget about the ugly truth back home

The fact that someone is trying to get her...the same someone who murdered her father...she snuggled closer into arnav's warmth as he stroked her hair soothingly “Its ok Khushi...we'll get through this...I spoke to Avinash in the morning and he is pretty confident about finding the person who sent you that photograph...it'll all be over soon khushi...i promise ok” he said as she closed her eyes and rested her cheek over his chest...his steady heartbeats giving her a hope and peace that she desperately wanted to cling to