Chapter 43

Khushi twirled around on her bare feet as she watched her full ghagra of her lehenga flair around her legs…it was a stunning Sabyasachi design (see below) with a lot of minute work on the dupatta, which she had chosen after a lot of deliberation.

The white, gold & silver colors especially made her skin glow while her hazel eyes, seemed to have gotten brighter than usual…probably in anticipation of meeting Arnav after so many days apart

“Khushi! What are you still doing here? You have to go down with Akhil remember…” her maasi said as she walked into Khushi’s hotel room that was kept unlocked “Haan maasi…I was just finishing up...I’ll go now” she said smiling as she slipped her feet into her silver and gold heels while Trisha came and stood in front of her

She swiped some kajal from her eyes and placed it behind khushi’s ears “You are looking beautiful beta…and soon you too will be a blushing bride if the rumors heard are true” her maasi said with a wink as khushi’s mouth turned into an ‘o’

“Naani…” she muttered as Trisha hit her lightly on her shoulder “As if you would not have told me!” she said as Khushi hugged her maasi tightly “I wanted to tell you, but after this wedding…and that too aaram se with chai-shai, cause I know you will have tons of questions for me!” Khushi said with a giggle as Trisha laughed “That I do…but I’m so happy for you…you both are just perfect!” she said as Khushi rolled her eyes

“We are not marrying Maasi…at least not right away…but thanks for saying that…I do love him…a lot” Khushi said with a blush as Trisha smiled warmly and entwined her hand with Khushi’s as they walked out towards the ballroom where the wedding guests were assembled for the bride and groom to make an appearance

…

“Stop fidgeting bhai…I’m sure she’ll be here in a second…” Aakash said as Arnav kept turning his head towards the long staircase of the grand ballroom, waiting for Khushi to come down along with her brother for the reception; he could see the bridal party too making their way from the other staircase

“I am not fidgeting…I’m just…” Arnav said as he stopped talking; his breath getting caught at the sight of Khushi walking down the stairway….At this point he did not have any words to describe her…or her beauty which seemed to be shining more than usual, even giving a complex to the actual bride

The beautiful striking white and gold further high-lighted the milky smoothness of her skin while the fitting miniscule choli made Arnav’s mouth water in sinful thoughts…it also did not help that her perfect waistline was on full display which the embellished dupatta was not really hiding at all, instead it teased Arnav more at the way it sat perfectly on her chest…But the thing that really took the cherry was the radiant happiness glowing on her face…and he fell in love just a little bit more

“So…here she comes…won’t you officially introduce us beta?” his bua broke his thoughts as she teased him along with Aakash…He ignored them and started walking slowly towards the stage, his eyes not leaving Khushi as they headed towards the beautifully decorated stage. It delighted him to see Khushi’s eyes searching for him amongst the assembled guests

Earlier, when they had walked into the ballroom, they were greeted warmly by Khushi’s naani and her mother who both seemed to be looking at him with more than usual interest and tenderness. He knew Khushi had told them about their relationship, but this was the first time he was meeting them after being officially declared as Khushi’s boyfriend…at least to the family

It had been an awkward few minutes as his grandfather and bua had enthusiastically met Khushi’s family and shared knowing glances as if they had some secret agenda to discuss which he was pretty sure, they did…but thanks to the ever increasing guests, he could quickly escape from there and since then he had been desperately waiting to see Khushi

He stopped near one of the pillars and observed as the ‘Jai mala’* garlands were exchanged and the to-be bride and groom went to sit on their prepared thrones as people came to meet them…according to the north Indian tradition, the reception was taking place first before the actual wedding which would be held in the early morning at around 2am

He smirked as Khushi’s eyes finally found his and her eyes widened in joy as she took in his ensemble (see below)…he had thought that he should meet her demands midway and so had opted for a dark printed bandhgala over dark brown jodhpurs…it was stylish and he knew he looked good in it as he observed Khushi staring at him shamelessly

He blinked his eyes at her once as she gave him a 100 watt smile and looked around to find a way to get away from the stage…but as she was about to walk down, someone held her back and she had to return back to her place as people came to congratulate her brother and his bride…she looked up apologetically at Arnav who gave her an understanding look and smiled making her want to run into his arms

…

Khushi had been trying unsuccessfully to get out of her duty of being the groom’s sister and go to meet Arnav who had been standing looking at her. Their eyes speaking a language of their own, as they felt more and more desperate to be in each other’s arms…to touch…to kiss…all those days apart had been a torture

“Congratulations” Khushi’s came out of her thoughts as she found Arnav standing very close to her, in front of Akhil and Mihika as he wished them…the rest of his family too was congratulating them while Khushi felt her heart do flip-flops watching Arnav smile and laugh.

She had been admiring his attire all this while from afar, but as he came so close, she could not help but marvel at the fantastic choice of clothing that emphasized his broad shoulders and lean body to perfection…now if only all these people would not have been here

“Hello Khushi” Arnav said softly as she smiled while saying a quick hello to him…she then turned to his family who stood observing both of them “Paddu bua and Mr Raizada…thank you so much for coming…” she said as Arnav’s bua came and hugged her tightly “Pleasure is ours dear…after all we are practically family now!” she said as Arnav’s grandfather too blessed her “You should start calling me dadaji now Khushi beta” he said as Khushi blushed, making Arnav roll his eyes at her

“Or Yudi…he prefers that” Aakash suddenly popped around as Arnav gave him an irritated look “Oh Aakash…so nice to see you…thanks for coming” Khushi started saying when the photographer asked them to stand with the bride and groom for the customary photograph

Arnav took this golden opportunity to stand right next to Khushi and wound his arms around her slim waist, making Khushi’s body tremble as his calloused hand drew lazy circle on her open bare back and waist...making her gulp her rising desire “When can you meet me” Arnav whispered in her ear as she closed her eyes at the sinful pleasure his breath left on her senses

“After the reception and dinner…room 1204…” Khushi whispered back as Arnav pinched her lightly on her waist before smirking and leaving…leaving her feeling bereft of his warmth…she just had to wait for the damn reception to get over

…

“Yes mamma…I’m going to go and freshen up and then change for the phera’s” Khushi said as the Akhil and Mihika left for their rooms to rest for a bit before the wedding rituals that were supposed to start in about two hours “You also go and rest…or would you prefer chit-chatting with a certain someone?” Khushi asked, wiggling her eyebrows,  as Garima hit her lightly on her arm

“Chup…besharam! Shashi and Payal will be coming for the phera’s only…so there is still some time for that” she said blushing as Khushi hugged her tightly “Ma…its so wonderful to see you smile so much” Khushi said as she saw Aakash saunter lazily towards them

“Bha…I mean Khushi….” He said as Garima giggled while Khushi glared at them “When are the actual Phera’s? Bhai was asking as he and I will be staying back for them…Dadaji and Bua are heading back home” he said as Garima suddenly interrupted them “Oh…yes, Padmini did say they are not staying back for the wedding…I’ll just go and say bye to them” she said as Khushi turned back to Aakash

“Why does your bhai want to stay back? As it is, most of the guests have left…except for some close family” she said with a slight smile and Aakash let out a laugh “Oh I know that…but seeing him fume and get irritated at everything and everyone for the last three hours…staying back for a few more hours should not be a problem…as it is…he is pretty close to you right?” he whispered as Khushi laughed along with him

“Yes, I could see his lovely mood fluctuating all night…anyways, its in two hours…but I’ll go tell him that…meanwhile, you enjoy the musical program and other fun stuff that has been planned for all late night guests…I am sure you will be more than happy you stayed back” she said cryptically, leaving Aakash puzzled as she patted him arm and went to find Arnav

…

“Where is he?” Khushi muttered under her breath as she walked slowly to her room. She had explicityly asked him to meet her near her room, but had not been able to locate him anywhere…had he knocked and left?  

She was still in her thought as she opened her room door, but as soon as she walked into the darkened room, a hand stopped the door from closing and pulled her flush against the now closed door, taking her by surprise…it was so sudden that before she could scream, her mouth was shut closed by a soft but urgent pair of lips…Arnav’s lips

She moaned and opened her mouth as soon as she registered Arnav pressing her against the wooden door with his body while his hands held her by the waist and nape…he tiled her head for better access to her mouth as she responded wantonly to his insistent kisses

“God….I missed you soo much” Arnav mumbled as Khushi raked her fingers into his short hair and held on the silky strands while he continued to plunder her mouth, albeit more softly than before…she felt her toes curl as he kissed her with so much tender hunger that her body went limp in complete surrender to his loving caresses

Arnav smiled as her hold on him loosened and her arms went around his neck, hugging him with all her might “I missed you too” she said as he hugged her back, burying his face in her fragrant hair…he then picked her up in his arms as she held him by his shoulders and smiled brightly as he took them to the couch and made her sit on his lap

“I was going mad Khushi…how do you even know so many people!” Arnav whined as she kissed him softly on his eyes, then his jaw while he sighed in satisfaction…she giggled as she held his upturned collar and brushed her nose with his “I didn’t know all of them baby…but courtesy calls” she said as Arnav pulled her closer to himself, her legs curling against his strong thighs making her squeal

“I love this bandhgala…you look so hot…” she said in a throaty murmur as she trailed her hands over the rich raw silk while he pushed her silky hair behind her ear “I thought I should meet you half-way…I would never say a no to anything you ask of me…if its within reason” he said with a smile, as she leaned forward and kissed him softly on his cheek “Thank you” she whispered as Arnav shook his head “That’s not the thank you I hoped for Ms Gupta” he said as she pushed him back and stood up from his lap

“What kind of Thank you do you want then Mr Raizada?” she teased him as he pretended to think, making her giggle “You haven’t told me what you think of my lehenga” she said as his eyes went darker than before as they trailed blatantly on her delectable form making her shiver in anticipation

“I liked it so much, that I could not help but think when I could tear it off you” he said as Khushi gasped and walked a few steps back “Thank God you told me…I love this dress too much to get it torn off by you…so to avoid you tearing it off and to give you a better thank you…why don’t I take it off myself?” she asked wiggling her eyebrows as Arnav shifted in his seat, to make his suddenly aroused lower half more comfortable

“Khushi…it wouldn’t help my current state if you speak like this…You know I won’t be able to…” he started saying when Khushi’s hand went to the pin that held the dupatta of the lehenga in place on both her shoulders “Then don’t...just relax and let me thank you properly baby” she said as the dupatta came slithering off her body

Arnav’s breath caught as he saw her perfect body encased in that miniscule silver choli and long white ghagra…the thin gold waist chain made him go harder as Khushi continued to take off her jewelry, starting from the numerous bangles on her arms, then her necklace and finally her earrings…she was just about to take off her waist chain when Arnav’s raspy voice stopped her “Leave that on” he said as she nodded and bit her bottom lip making his blood roar

She then reached at the back and undid the small knot at the back that held the choli together…then carefully removed it from her upper body, leaving herself clad in a lacy hot pink bra making Arnav hold his breath…She cupped her lace covered breasts in her palms as she looked at Arnav with brazen desire

“Do you like this baby?” she asked him in a seductive voice as Arnav’s hand’s went to the top button of his bandhgala…. “Uh-uh…you have to help me first…then I’ll help you” she said as she made her way clad in her bra and ghagra…she stood right in front of him as she asked him to undo the ghagra fastening on the side of her hip

Arnav could hardly control anymore but wanted to give Khushi her time to do whatever she wanted to…how much ever that was testing his patience…he unzipped her ghagra slowly as the heavy material slipped quickly passed her gorgeous legs…he saw her lifting her sandal clad feet and push the ghagra away

She then sat astride him with her legs on either side on his as her hands went to his buttons…she looked into his eyes as her fingers deftly undid the button’s one by one, Arnav could not control himself anymore as he squeezed her buttocks and pulled her lower half over his arousal that twitched in his tight jodhpurs

“Umm…Arnav….” Khushi said as she undid the last button and pushed the top away from his strong muscled body…she splayed her hands over his chest as she continued to rub herself over him making him groan deeply at her “I can’t wait Khushi…its been too long” arnav said in a hoarse voice as he turned them around and pushed her back onto the soft couch…his lips found her eager ones in a passionate kiss as his fingers went to caresses her wet core

“Ooh…arnav…” Khushi moaned as she quickly undid his trouser buttons and helped him take them off…She went to remove her sandals as he once again caught her hand “Leave them on too” he said as she bit his ear “Kinky…” she whispered while he growled and flicked her bra hook…throwing the lacy scrap somewhere in the room

He latched his mouth on her straining peaks one by one as she arched into him, her hands travelling over his hard back as she pushed them further into his boxers, cupping his strong buttocks….he cursed as her hands wandered to the front and found his aroused member, stroking it with her dainty fingers, making him hiss in pleasure

“Not now baby…I won’t last” he rasped as kissed her parted swollen lips while pulling off her soaked panties…He lathered kisses all over her body as his lips found the waist chain…he licked his way across the span of her tiny waist, his hot tongue against the cold metal making Khushi loose all control

Before she could tell him that she could not wait anymore, he pulled off his boxers and slammed his throbbing arousal inside her hot, warm center, making her scream in pleasure… “Oh yes…Arnav…. I missed this so much…” Khushi panted as Arnav increased his thrusts...He wished they had more time to take It slow but he had been tested enough

He knew he would have exploded if he would not have had Khushi now…and it felt so wonderful and exhilarating to be inside her…as if this was the only place he always wanted to be in…He increased his speed at Khushi’s encouraging words as she joined him perfectly with every thrust

She wound her legs around his thighs and held him tightly as they kissed in abandon…tongues dueling, teeth clashing as their bodies rubbed deliciously against each others…while both of them finally coming together in a shuddering climax, taking them to a place they both craved

As their bodies relaxed and the aftermath of the beautiful but intense lovemaking made them lie satiated on the couch, Arnav pulled Khushi tightly in his arms, his fingers brushing away the errant hairs that were now stuck to her forehead “You have to move in with me…we’ll get a house together…I can’t live without you another day Khushi…please…tell me you will” he said as Khushi buried her head in his neck and sighed

“I wish it were that simple Arnav…this is India and I have my family and even your family…it won’t be that easy” she said as she looked at his handsome face, as he kissed her softly “But we’ll find a solution…I know we will…and once all this craziness is over...you and I will take a long vacation…just us…no work…only pleasure…and more pleasure…” he said as his hands started caressing her bare warm body

Khushi giggled and pushed him away as she got up and pulled his bandhgala jacket over her naked form “Yes we will, but now, I have exactly half an hour to get ready and reach in time for the pheras…and you too need to make yourself presentable…so chop chop Mr Raizada…we shall continue this…some other time” she said as Arnav shamelessly got up and started making his way towards her with a mischievous smile making her squeal and rush into the bathroom…both of them finally realizing the completeness they felt with each other.

Chapter 42

“No! You have to wear the Sherwani!” Khushi screamed on the phone as she went about sorting through the racks of designer sarees and dresses her designer had sent to her…she narrowed her eyes as Arnav once again refused to listen to her

“Khushi, I told you…I don’t do traditional, so please don’t ask me to wear a sherwani…I prefer my suits” Arnav answered back on the phone which further annoyed Khushi.

As it is, he had been out of the country for an R&S event when all the other wedding functions were taking place because of which they had not seen each other for more than a week now.

On top of that, Khushi was getting restless without him since her family too knew about them and had been pestering her to call him over to meet them officially…so at this point, she could not take anymore of this!

“You know what Arnav, wear whatever you want…I ask you one thing! One thing and you can’t do it for me!” She whined on the phone as she picked up a pink ensemble and held it to herself in front of the floor length mirror in her room

“C’mon baby, don’t be like this! As it is I am dying to see you since I got back this morning…and the last thing I want is to argue with you on something so insignificant!”

“You should be in a happy mood today! Your brother is getting married and we are going to finally see each other after so long! You don’t know how I have survived without seeing you all this time…” he said in a low voice, which completely melted Khushi’s heart

She smiled as she plonked herself on her bed, now littered with tons of silky, satiny dresses as she shifted the phone to her other ear “I missed you too Arnav…and I can’t wait to see you tonight…If only I could meet you right away…but there are just too many things to do….” She said as she sighed and laid down on the bed on her stomach

“Fine! Don’t wear the Sherwani…its ok, I won’t force you…Just come on time ok…” she said as Arnav sighed in relief…she could feel him smile on the other side “I’ll come right now sweetheart, but you know how scandalous that would be…so I shall be on time tonight…” he said as Khushi giggled

“Ok, I’ll see you later…Oh and baby…please make sure that Aakash comes as well…I have a surprise for him!” she said as she suddenly remembered her genius plan “Sure, he’ll come…but why are you not telling what it is!” he asked as she giggled some more “Nope! All in good time Mr Raizada” she said as she bid him a good bye and let out a satisfied smile…she could not wait to tease that little brat!

•••

“Khushi? Ah…what a pleasant surprise” Shashi said as he opened the door and stepped aside to usher her in…he was truly surprised to see her here and also a bit nervous since Garima had told him that Khushi knew about them

“Not sure if it will be pleasant Mr Dinkaran…but we’ll know soon” she said under her breath as she went and sat down on the couch while Shashi sat on the settee opposite to her.

Khushi observed the casual track pants and worn t-shirt that he was wearing while he had the Sunday times in one hand…he had obviously not expected to see her this early in the morning

“Your kids are in?” Khushi asked as Shashi nodded his head “Ritwik is still sleeping and Payal…I’m not sure…she’s not come down yet…I just got their breakfast ready…you want some?” he asked her as she looked up in surprise

“You cook for them?” she asked him in a surprised tone as he nodded and smiled “Yes, on Sunday’s we have a late breakfast cum lunch since they both don’t wake up till noon” he chuckled as Khushi let out a small smile…how nice it must be to have such a caring father…she shook herself mentally to not go there…not now.

“So, how are things at work? Heard you’ve been working from home all week” Shashi said as Khushi nodded…she knew that her mother must not have told him the real reason for Khushi’s absence from GR office, so she merely shrugged her shoulders “Yeah, too much work for the wedding…so I’ve been working from here” she said as Shashi nodded before keeping the newspaper aside and leaning forward, with a determined look in his eyes

“We both know why you have come here khushi…so why don’t you ask me what you want to” he said as Khushi smiled at him…she knew he was aware of her reason to visit, but to have him ask her directly was something she admired “I don’t want to ask anything Shashi…I just want to know how serious you are about my mother” she said simply as he leaned back and smiled as his eyes now turned tender

“I am as serious as a man in love can be...I want to marry her Khushi, as soon as possible…but she has some reservations” he said as Khushi looked on speculating his words “Why so soon? You hardly know each other” she said as Shashi shook his head

“It doesn’t take long to fall in love. I think it was love when I saw her the first time, cleaning the cowebs in this house…and I can’t wait because I am tired of playing hide and seek…I want the world to know that I love Garima gupta and marrying her is the only way I can…we are not a young couple anymore and I don’t want anyone pointing a finger at her…she is far too precious for me” he said as Khushi took a deep breath…he seemed genuine in his love for her mother, but she had to be sure

“Don’t take this the wrong way Shashi…but, my mother is a very rich woman…her first husband took that advantage and left her bleeding…what guarantee is there that you too won’t do that...and before you take offence, I’m only asking this because I don’t know you very well personally” Khushi said as Shashi smiled gently at her

“I can never take offence Khushi…what you have asked me, shows your love towards your mother and how can that be wrong? But if you need to know, I don’t care for Garima’s money…I have more than enough of my own and if you still don’t believe me, I am willing to sign on any papers that deter me or my kids from possessing anything that belongs to Garima…except for one thing....” he said as Khushi looked surpised

“What thing?” she asked as Shashi gave her a warm smile “Her heart…that is something that we all want a part of…that is something I want a share of…can you share that with us Khushi?” he asked her as Khushi felt her throat dry up…she smiled a genuine smile at Shashi and nodded “That can be arranged” she said as Shashi let out a laugh

“But I will still keep a close watch on you Shashi…and I think its time you and mamma tell nani about yourself…and your kids too…after all, we will have another wedding to plan soon” she said as Shashi grinned “Thank you Khushi…but do you think it would have any negative effect on the investigation?” he asked anxiously as Khushi shook her head “You don’t worry about that…to hell with the damn investigation…we all know none of us have anything to do with it, so why waste precious time?” she asked as Shashi nodded and agreed with her

“So, I’ll talk to mamma as well and I think as soon as Akhil’s wedding is over, you both should tell everyone…don’t worry…I am there to support you” she said as she got up “Oh and we’ll see you for the wedding later…try not to find a cozy corner with my mother tonight” she said as Shashi smiled and looked away “I can say the same thing about you and Arnav” he said cheekily as khushi blushed and look away

“Ah…that…well…” she said as Shashi laughed “Lets call it even” he said as Khushi smiled and nodded as she made her way out…she turned around at the last minute before leaving “Please make sure Payal comes tonight…I forgot to personally invite her” Khushi said as Shashi nodded and bid her a goodbye.

•••

Arnav checked his watch as he paced the living room waiting for the rest of his family to come down…he had been waiting impatiently since the last 20 minutes for them to start for the wedding venue so that they reach on time…he could hardly wait for another minute more to see Khushi

“Looks like you are desperate to see your lady love bhai!” Aakash said as he walked towards Arnav in a subtle dark red sherwani giving his big brother a knowing smirk as their bua and grandfather followed behind him…Arnav gave him an irritated look and ignored him as he strode towards the rest of his family

“What took you guys so long? We should have left by now…” Arnav said as his bua raised a perfectly arched eyebrow “Oh ho Arnav…you are acting as if this is your wedding…dekho toh isko (look at him)” she said with a mischievous smile as Arnav’s grandfather chuckled

“You are right beta…looks like we will have to speak to the Gupta’s about Arnav’s rishta now” he said as Arnav simply scowled at them “Enough you guys…its nothing like that…I just did not want us to be those people who reach for a wedding after everything is over” he said as his bua tutted

“Arnav! This is a north Indian wedding…abhi toh sirf reception hai, phere toh subah ke teen baje honge (right now its only the reception, the phera’s will happen at 3am) “ she said as Arnav shrugged his shoulders “So, we should still reach on time…and dadaji, you will not speak to the Gupta’s about any rishta…please” he said as his grandfather’s face fell

“So when can we speak to them? I don’t like this dating-shating thing, especially since you both are eventually going to get married anyways” he said as Arnav sighed in exasperation and started walking out as his bua turned to her father “Theek hai na papa…(its ok papa), leave it for now…let them decide when they want to get married…abhi toh enjoy karne do (Now, let them enjoy)” she said as Arnav threw her a grateful look before all of them walked out

“All this is fine bua! Bhai will get married whenever he wants to…but what about me? What if I want to marry right away?” Akash asked wiggling his eyebrows as everyone burst out laughing “Ok bacchu…as long as you get the right girl, you can marry right away!” she said as Arnav thumped Akash on his back

“No chance! He is far too young to marry…and anyways, which girl in the right mind would want to marry this cartoon!” Arnav said as Akash turned towards him with a bashful smile “Hai koi (there is someone)…maybe!” he said vaguely as everyone looked shocked except Arnav who had an inkling…thanks to Khushi’s intuition

“Kaun hai? aur ladki hi hai na? (Who is it? And it is a girl only right?)” their bua asked as Akash scowled while Arnav and his grandfather laughed loudly “Haan bua…it’s a girl only! And you will meet her soon!” he said with a dreamy smile as everyone chuckled while the car started on the way to the wedding venue.

SORRY.SORRY.SORRY!!!!

Hey Guys!!!

Thank you so much for being so patient with me...as I had written on IF, my husband was in a very bad condition due to which things were too tensed at home. I won't get too much into it, but just wanted you guys to know that I have not given up on this story and will be updating the next part as soon as I finish it! 

I tool have lost my initial concentration on the story and will take a few days to just get back on it before I continue with my original plan for SOI

Hope you guys can wait for just a bit longer as I come back with the next chapter!

Once again, I love you guys for waiting so patiently and not giving up on me!!

XOXO

Arati

Chapter 41

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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