Chapter 13

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter 12

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

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

xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter 11

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter 10

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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