Scars ~ Part 11

Khushi was settling into college well. She’d made new friends and she was working just fine in all her subjects. However, things hadn’t improved between her and Arnav. He still rarely spoke to her and failed to notice when she did little things for him. Oh how she wished he would notice things about her just as she had noticed things about him. For example, how he ALWAYS buttered his toast before he did anything else when he got to the breakfast table. Even if his toast wasn’t ready, he would refuse to start drinking his tea. Or how he’d always fall asleep on his right, never on his back or on his right.

Had she fallen in love with her husband? Yes she had.

Had he grown any feeling for her at all. No. Not at all. And this broke Khushi’s heart.

*****

“So Khushi, we’re going to AR tomorrow to take the photographs. Would you like me to pick you up from your house or are we going to meet up there?”

“We’ll meet there, you don’t need to worry about picking me up.”

“If you want me to I can, I don’t mind.”

“Thanks for the offer, but really, it’s fine Raj.”

“Okay, so I guess I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Bye.”

Khushi picked up her bag and left the room. She and Raj had been getting everything sorted so that they could go to AR. They’d spent a fair amount of time together due to this and she hadn’t spent much time with all her other friends. However she knew they understood why, and they didn’t mind. Lavanya had been a great friend to Khushi. She’d call her and text her almost all the time to check up on her and make sure everything was going fine.

Anjali too had been very supportive and had been a great friend to Khushi when she got home. She’d sit down with Khushi on a regular basis and would just ask her about her day and offer any help with anything Khushi may have needed to do. Sometimes, Khushi felt as though everyone was treating her like a child or something, however she knew they all cared about her really.

“Di, I’m home!”

“No one’s home Khushi bhabi. They’ve all gone to the temple.”

“Oh, no one said anything to me?”

“Anjali Di said you’d be tired after a whole day out and she thought you’d like to rest. And as you’d have the house to yourself, it would give you some time and space if you needed to do anything.”

“Okay, thank you Hari Prakash ji.”

Hari Prakash left and Khushi made her way to her room. She’d left before Arnav today and so the room was still a mess. Arnav had left his towel on the bed and his PJs was all over the floor. Khushi shook her head and smiled and began picking everything up. Honestly, he was like a child at time.

Khushi put all her things away and then picked up her own towel and went into the bathroom to have a shower.

*****

“ARNAJ VI?!”

Khushi had walked out of the bathroom to find Arnav had returned home. This of course was fine, but Khushi was in her towel. Khushi averted her eyes, not knowing what to do now. Her clothes were on the bed and Arnav was sat right by them.

“What’s wrong? You look like you’ve seen a ghost. Last time I checked this was still my room too. So it shouldn’t be such a shocker to you to walk out of the bathroom and find me here.”

“No, its just that, you’re home early.”

“Yeah, i wasn’t feeling well. So I came home. Problem?”

“You’re not feeling well? What’s wrong? Is there anything I can get you?”

“Khushi, it’s all fine. How about you go and get dressed first.”

Khushi nodded and slowly made her way over to the bed. She leaned over to grab her clothes. Arnav looked over at her and caught a whiff of her shampoo, God it smelt good. He shook the thought away. Khushi walked back  to the bathroom and shut the door behind her.

She came back out a moment later fully dressed.

“Is there anything I can get you?”

“No, I’m fine.”

Khushi nodded and walked over and took her own things out and sat down.

“How’s er, how’s college going?”

“It’s okay. I’m coming to AR tomorrow for my photography project.”

“You are?”

“Yes, me and Raj, my friend. We’re working together and we’re doing a piece on the fashion industry.”

“Raj? Why have you not told me this before?”

“I had. I told you straight after Raj had spoken to someone at AR.”

“Oh, I seem to have forgotten.”

Khushi looked away sadly. Arnav never did seem to remember anything she told him.

*****

It was the next day and Khushi was all ready to leave for AR. She’d had her breakfast and was calling for a taxi when Anjali stopped her.

“Why are you calling a taxi?”

“I need to get to AR Di.”

“Yes I know. Hence why I’m asking you why you need a taxi. You can go with Chote. You guys are going to the same place after all.”

“Di I don’t think that would be appropriate.”

“Of course it would. No one would even notice. Chote, you’re fine to take Khushi with you, aren’t you?”

“But Di, you’d said we were keeping the marriage quiet. If I drive into work with her people are going to start asking questions and speculating aren’t they.”

“No they won’t Chote, because no one’s going to notice. Now, no more arguments from either of you. You’re going together and that’s final.”

Arnav huffed slightly and this didn’t go unnoticed by Khushi. Why did Arnav dislike her so? But neither of them did say anything further and they left the house. Once outside, Khushi took her phone out and dialed for a taxi.

“What are you doing?”

“Calling for a taxi.”

“Why, you’re going with me.”

“I don’t want to be a burden on you. I can travel by myself and no one needs to know.”

“Khushi, stop making a big deal out of this and lets go.”

“No. I can tell when I’m not wanted. I’m used to it. It’s ok. You carry on, I’ll be there in a bit.”

“For Gods sake. Just shut up and get in the car.”

Khushi remained standing where she was. For the first time she was defying Arnav. Full out ignoring what he was saying. Speaking her mind. Arnav noticed this and walked over to her and grabbed her by the arm and pushed her into the car and then went over to his side and got in himself.

“Don’t annoy me Khushi. Putting up with you sharing my room is testing my patience enough. Having to deal with you now is too much, but I married you for Di’s sake and I’ll do whatever I need to do.”

“Why don’t you just tell Di this isn’t working.”

“Because it’s working just fine. Di wanted her Chote married. I’m married. She wanted to be able to take care of you, she’s able to do that.”

“No this isn’t what Di wanted. She wanted you, she wanted us to be happy with one another.”

“What the hell is your problem. You’re getting to do whatever you want and everyone loves you. What more do you want.”

“I want… Nothing, forget it. Let’s just go.”

“No Khushi. Tell me. What the f*** is your problem. You walk around oh so happy around everyone else, but then around me you’re this cloud of misery. I get home and you’re just sat there and you look at me like a God damn alien or something. What the hell do you want from me?”

“I’m married to you. You’re supposed to be my husband. Yet it doesn’t feel like that. You’re just my room mate. Someone who puts up with me because he has to. I want you to care for me as much as I care for you. I want to make this marriage work, but you, you clearly don’t.”

Arnav turned the engine of the car on and turned to Khushi, his eyes boring into hers.

“Let’s get one thing straight. I NEVER wanted to marry you. I NEVER wanted to make you my wife. I DON’T love you. So take a note of that, You want us to live like a happy married couple? That’s not happening. I DON’T WANT YOU. So forget about being my wife, you can carry on being a roommate and if you want you don’t have to give a crap about me. Khushi, if i can tolerate this, you can too.”

“So you’ll never accept me?”

“No.”

Scars ~ Part 10

Khushi and Raj made their way to the photography class. Khushi looked around taking in her surroundings. Raj observed her.

“So how you liking it so far?”
“Well I’m enjoying it and I’m feeling a whole lot better after meeting you guys. You’re all so lovely! And thanks for the hot chocolate. It’s lovely.”
“You’re welcome. Oh our class is the next room.”
“Okay.”

Raj and Khushi entered the room and the professor walked over to Khushi.

“Ah Miss Gupta, I was waiting for your arrival. The head told me that you would be in my class. Now my class have already started their respective projects and they’re working in pairs. I understand this maybe slightly difficult for you, but you are going to have to find someone who will be willing to allow you to join them because I think at the moment everyone has a partner.”
“Oh.”
“It’s ok sir. Khushi can work with me, I don’t have a partner.”
“You don’t?”
“No sir.”
“Oh that’s okay. Khushi you can work with Raj.”
“Okay.”

Raj led Khushi over to his desk and began telling her about some of the ideas he had.

“But of course if you want to do something different that’s fine with me.”
“No no, its fine. If that’s your plan then I’m fine with that.”
“Great! I’ve already been in touch with some of the fashion houses around here and AR Designs told me that they’d talk to their boss and see if he’s okay with us photographing their next big fashion show.”
“AR-AR Designs?”
“Yup, they’re currently the biggest fashion house in India and Arnav Singh Raizada is one of the most successful business men around. I would love to work with him in this way.”

Khushi gulped. Did she want to mix her work up with Arnav’s work? Would he blow a fuse when he saw her? But she had to think about her new friend Raj. This was his work too and it would look so much better for the both of them if they managed to work with AR Designs.

“Khushi?”
“Yes?”
“You seem a little lost? You ok with the plan?”
“Er yeah! Why not?”
“Great! Now we need to do some work before we allow ourselves to work with any fashion house. First we have to actually take some awesome pictures to show them what we can do. This means we actually have to take nice pictures and then edit them accordingly as well.”
“Right!”
“Khushi this also means your going to have to make time for me so that we can work together. Because it’ll be easier for us to do all our project work together and then we’ll just do the essay work in our own time.”
“That’s all fine by me.”
“Here look through some of the notes I’ve already made so you can start your essay as well.”

Khushi nodded and started looking through Raj’s notes. Raj looked at Khushi and smiled. Thank the lord he was working with someone so down to earth. Khushi seemed to be such a hardworking person.

The time flew by and Khushi and Raj had a solid plan as to what they were going to do while they waited for the fashion houses to get back to them.

“Khushi I was thinking, this weekend there’s a little fashion road show. Anyone can go along and take pictures and stuff. I was thinking we can go, take some pictures and then send them to some of the fashion houses so that they can see that we’re a good cause to help.”
“This weekend?”
“Yup.”
“I’ll have to ask first.”
“Yeah that’s fine, here take my number and let me know.”

Raj gave Khushi his number and Khushi gave Raj hers. They spoke for a little while about random things and then the lesson came to an end so they left together and went to find the rest of their friends. The first person they bumped into was Lavanya.

“Hey guys! I was just going to come looking for you! How was your first photography lesson?!”
“It was great! I’m working with Raj so its cool.”
“La you seen Tom?”
“No.”
“Okay that’s fine I’ll go find him. Catch you ladies later.”

Raj walked away leaving Khushi and Lavanya on their own.

“So we don’t have any other lessons today, we’ve got maths and psychology tomorrow. So what do you wanna do now?”
“Well, I should be getting home…”
“No way! It’s your first day of college and it’s probably the only time I can talk to you on your own. So I say we find a nice coffee shop and go talk so I can tell you some group secrets.”
“Oh well, okay then.”
“Great! Let’s go!”

Lavanya grabbed Khushi’s hand and led the way. Once they were outside college they began talking about all sorts. In almost no time, they arrived at the coffee shop.

“So tell me honestly, how was it working with Raj?”
“Honestly it was great! He’s really helpful and filled me in straight away.”
“Were all the girls giving you dirty looks?”
“No, why would they?”
“Oh all the girls absolutely adore Raj but he never seems to give them any attention and they hate any girls who go near him.”
“Really?”
“Yeah! I’m actually being dead serious with you. Like girls hate me and Amrita because we’re friends with Raj. They’re not too bad with Amrita because they know her and Tom are together but they hate me because they think I’m with Raj. It’s mental. So be prepared!”
“Aha oh goodness. Oh well, as long as I have friends like you guys, it doesn’t matter if the others hate me. Oh so Amrita and Tom are together?”
“Yup, they’ve been together FOREVER like quite literally. I think their mothers are friends and so they’ve known each other from a young age. And they kind of just fell for each other and it’s been like that since forever.”
“Oh that’s so lovely! So are you and Raj actually…”
“Oh good god no! Raj is like a no go zone. Personally I see him like a brother and Raj has saved himself for ‘The One.’ He refuses to do what other guys do and have tonnes and tonnes of girlfriends.”
“Oh I see now.”
“Tell me more about you Khushi.”
“Erm well there isn’t much for me to tell about myself.”

Khushi looked away looking awkward. She didn’t want to start a new friendship by lying to her friend. But at the same time she couldn’t tell Lavanya the truths about her because of course she didn’t know Lavanya too well yet.
Time passed and both girls spoke for hours on end. It was around 6pm when Khushi realised she should be getting home.

“My goodness, it’s got so late! I have to get going now La. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“Hold up Khushi, give me your number so we can talk sometime.”
“Yeah sure.”

Khushi gave Lavanya her number and Lavanya gave Khushi hers.

“It’s okay you know, I don’t mind like walking you up a bit.”
“No no, it’s okay, you’ll be late too. I can manage.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes.”
“Okay, bye Khushi, I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Khushi nodded and La and Khushi parted ways. Khushi walked down the road a bit and once she realised Lavanya was well out of the way, she called Anjali just as they had arranged.

“Di, I’m ready to be picked up now.”
“Of course. Where are you and I’ll send a driver to come and get you.”

Khushi told Anjali where she was and then disconnected the call. Within a few minutes, a Raizada family car had arrived.
The drive home didn’t take too long. Khushi got out of the car and grabbed all her stuff. She reached and door and knocked. At once Anjali opened the door with a bright smile.

“Khushi! Come come, you must tell me how your day went.”

Khushi and Anjali walked into the living room and they sat down together.

“Sorry I’m a bit late Di. My friend insisted that we should go and get a coffee and talk some time.”
“Oh you’ve made a friend! That’s great! And no there’s no problem you coming home late. Why, when I was in college I don’t think I ever got home before 7 in the evening because I always went for a coffee or I went to a friends house. So if you want to go with friends after college that’s fine with us. And don’t worry about Nani, she’s fine with it too.”
“Oh thank you so much Di!”
“Any way tell me more. Actually don’t! I’m so silly. You should go and freshen up and have something to eat and then you can tell me more about your day.”

Khushi nodded and made her way to her room. She walked into her room and looked around. This was her other life. It was as though she was living two different lives. One where she was a wife and daughter-in-law. And on the other hand she was a singleton going to college and making some amazing new friends. Was it possible to be both people at the same time?

Scars ~ Part 9

It was the next morning and Khushi was getting ready for her first day in college. She looked over to Arnav and hoped that he would say something, but he said nothing to her.
Khushi filtered through her dresses trying to find something appropriate to wear. Anjali knocked on the door and walked in.

“You ready Khushi?”
“I don’t know what to wear Di.”
“Wear anything.”
“But Di, all of my dresses are quite fancy. I can’t wear this stuff to college.”
“Can I have a look?”

Khushi nodded and let Anjali have a look. She looked through Khushi’s outfits and then pulled out a simple anarkali dress.

“Wear this!”
“Are you sure Di?”
“Yes! It’s simple yet elegant and red is so your colour.”
“Do you think I’m bold enough to pull this colour off?”
“Of course you are! Now hurry up and get ready!”

Anjali left the room and Khushi looked at the dress. She took a deep breath and got changed into the kameez. Once Khushi had dressed and had done her hair, she looked at herself in the mirror. She looked different even to herself. She looked like someone new, not the plain orphaned Khushi… Maybe this was going to be a new start for her.

*****

“You ready to go Khushi?”
“As ready as I’ll ever be Di.”

Anjali signalled to the driver so that they could get going.

“Di, what if I don’t fit in with everyone else?”
“Why shouldn’t you?”
“I don’t know. I guess I’ll be different from them all won’t I?”
“Why should you be different? They’ll all be around the same age as you and you’ll fit in just fine, I assure you.”
“I hope so.”

There was silence for the rest of the journey. They stopped in front of the college and Anjali and Khushi got our of the car.

“I’ll take you to the principle just so that you don’t feel awkward.”
“Thanks Di.”

Anjali and Khushi made their way through the college. Khushi noticed a little group looking at her and they smiled. Khushi smiled back at them. Maybe it wouldn’t be too bad.
They reached the principles office and the secretary instructed them to wait a few moments. It wasn’t long before they were called in.

“Aw Mrs Jha, how are you?”
“I’m fine thank you, it’s been a while since we last saw you.”
“Yes I’ve been busy but tell Shyam that we all have to meet up some time soon.”
“I shall. Any way this is your new student.”
“Hello Khushi.”
“Hello sir.”
“As Shyam ji said, we would prefer if you could keep Khushi’s identity hidden because Chote hasn’t formally announced that he’s married to Khushi.”
“Yes Shyam told me and that’s all fine. We have her down as Miss Khushi Kumari Gupta, and other than me, no one knows that she is married to Mr Raizada. In her file we have said, as Shyam said to do, Khushi is living with you guys as a tenant.”
“Yes that’s fine.”
“Now Khushi, we have got you doing business, maths, photography and psychology, are those fine by you?”
“Yes sir.”
“That’s great. Then I’ll show you to your business class now, because that’s the lesson your supposed to be in and someone can show you were to go after that.”

Anjali stood up.

“Khushi, I hope you have a great time! And good luck honey.”
“Thank you Di!”

Anjali left and the principle took Khushi too her business class. Before entering the room, he handed Khushi a timetable.

“This is your timetable and it tells you where to go for each lesson and where you have them. There’s also a map attached if you don’t know where to go. But if you do get lost, there’ll always be someone around to help you find your way, just walk into a classroom and ask one of the teachers and they’ll be happy to help. Don’t worry about not fitting in, there are always people who join after the start of the term. For example there was a girl who started only last week and there is a boy who is meant to start next week so don’t worry. And you’ll fit right in because most of our students here are about 18-20. There are some older people, but they choose to come back after taking gap years.”
“I understand and thank you sir.”
“You’re very welcome. So are you ready to go?”
“Yes, I guess so.”

The principle opened the door for Khushi and let her walk in first and then walked in after her. Khushi walked in slowly and looked around. Everyone was looking at her curiously, but they all seemed highly positive.

“This is Miss Khushi Kumari Gupta and she will be in your business class from now onwards. It’s her first day today so everyone, make her feel welcome. Carry on.”

The principle left and Khushi smiled at him. The business class teacher was a young woman, maybe the same age as Anjali and she too had a kind face.

“Welcome Khushi! It’s lovely to have you and I’m sure you will fit in just perfectly. Now where can you sit…”

She looked around the room and Khushi saw another girl raise her hand. She was one of the girls from the group of people who smiled at her when she walked into the college.

“Yes Lavanya?”
“Miss, Khushi can sit with me!”
“Well thank you Lavanya. Khushi would you like to sit with Lavanya?”

Khushi nodded and smiled and walked over to where Lavanya was sitting. Lavanya got up and smiled and took Khushi’s bag off her and helped her get settled.

“HI I’m Lavanya!”
“I’m Khushi.”
“Me and my friends saw you when you came in and we wondered when we’d be able to meet you! I love your dress by the way, it’s really pretty.”
“Really?”
“Yeah its beautiful and it really suits you!”
“Thanks!”
“So how come you’ve joined late? Just generally you decided later that you did want to come to college?”
“Yeah, just decided late.”

Khushi and Lavanya made small talk throughout the lesson and Khushi liked Lavanya. She was easy to talk to and really nice. At the end of the lesson everyone filed out slowly. Lavanya waited for Khushi as she got her things together. Before walking out, the teacher stopped Khushi.

“How are you feeling after your first lesson Khushi?”
“I feel a lot more confident now!”
“That’s great. Well go out and get to know everyone else. I’m assuming Lavanya has taken you under her wing?”
“Yes I have miss. I’m going to help Khushi round.”
“Excellent. Off you go girls.”

Lavanya and Khushi left the classroom and made their way towards the canteen. Lavanya explained to Khushi what each room was for and helped Khushi work out where her classes would be. Once they got to the canteen they joined up with the other members of Lavanya’s group.

“Guys this is Khushi. She’s new here.”
“Hi Khushi!”
“Khushi this is Amrita.” The first girl walked towards Khushi and shook her hand. She was as tall as Lavanya and also wore a kind smile.
“This is Raj.” Raj smiled at Khushi over his coffee mug and nodded in recognition.
“And lastly in our group is Tom. His name’s actually Tanvir, but he likes us calling him Tom.”
“Hi guys!”

Khushi smiled at all the members of the group. Raj got to his feet.

“So what can I get you Khushi?”
“Erm nothing, I’m fine thank you.”
“No I insist it’s your first day, let me buy you a coffee.”
“I’m not really a fan of coffee.”
“Tea? Hot chocolate? I insist!”
“Oh I’ll just have a hot chocolate then.”
“Coming right up!”

Lavanya smiled and took Khushi’s timetable off her and examined it carefully.

“Ok so, you see all 4 of us in business. You have Maths with Amrita and Tom. You have psychology with me and Amrita. And you and Raj are in the same photography class! So Khushi, looks like your a permanent member of our group now!”
“I feel honoured!”

Raj came back and passed Khushi’s hot chocolate to her. While they all spoke, Lavanya glanced at the time.

“Oh gosh, we should all start moving otherwise we’ll be late for our next class.”
“I have…”
“You have photography with me now Khushi. So should we start making our way there?”
“Erm okay.”

Khushi and Raj said bye to the rest of the group and they made their way to their next class.

Scars ~ Part 8

“Why! For gods sake! WHY!?”

Khushi locked herself into her bedroom. Why did her aunt hate her so much!? This wasn’t even fair. If only, if only she could go and be with her parents. How she wanted nothing more to be with her parents. Nothing good had ever happened in her life.
Khushi remained in her room for the rest of the evening. She didn’t bother going down to have dinner. Maybe if she wished hard enough, God would have mercy on her and take her away from this wretched world.

Downstairs Payal was filling the female members of the Raizada family in about the tensions between and her mother. The Raizada’s listened, taking poor Khushi’s past in. Anjali knew Khushi had a tough childhood, but all of this… This was something on a completely new level.

“Dadi ji I was thinking the other night. All of this, as much as she feels accepted here, I think she still needs her own space. I don’t think her and Arnav ji are ready to accept their relationship…”
“It’s not Khushi, it’s Chote, I’ve spoken to him so much about giving Khushi some time… But he’s just sooo, ugh my brother!”
“It’s understandable Di. But if you feel it fitting and if you all allow it, I was thinking maybe Khushi could go to college. She’s only 19, and she always had such dreams to get decent education. I think it would be good for her.”

Nani looked at Payal, her expression of that in deep though.

“Why, that’s an excellent idea! Why didn’t anyone think of this before! Yes, that’s what we’ll do, we’ll send Khushi to college! That’ll freshen her mind, she’ll be around people her own age and she’ll have the childhood she deserves!”
“Payal, why don’t you go and talk to her about it.”
“No Di, I can’t. I can’t face my little sister. Not after how that woman treated her. You please go and tell her. I need time, time to find a way to sort things out. Please Di.”
“Okay, fine. I’ll go tell her. Nani, can you talk to Shyam ji and tell him to call the college principal. He’s a friend of his.”
“Yes, of course my dear.”

Anjali made her to Khushi room and knocked on the door. She knocked a few times before Khushi actually opened the door.

“Can I come in?”

Khushi nodded her head.

“Are you ok?”
“I’m… I’m… I’m fine.”
“Are you sure, do you want to talk about it?”
“No, not really Di.”
“Ok, but if you want someone to talk to, I’m here you know.”
“Thank you.”
“Any way, I came to let you know that, we’ve been thinking and Payal has said that it might be a good idea for you to go to college. It’ll give you the opportunity to get to know people your age and you’ll get out of the house and away from everything.”
“What? Really?”
“Yes! I’m getting Shyam ji to talk to the principal and we’ll see if we can get you in by next week. The new terms only just started so you won’t have missed much.”
“Seriously!?”
“YES! What kind of course would you like to do?”
“Well I guess I would like to do a business course.”
“You’ll have 4 choices, so what else would you like to take?”
“Well I’d love to take business, photography, maths and psychology!”
“Are you sure?”
“Oh yes!! Yes please!”
“Then its settled, I’ll go and talk to Shyam ji and see what the principal has to say. And you have to come and have dinner first.”
“Ok.”

Khushi then went down to dinner and everyone spoke to Khushi about college and what she would like to do as her courses. Khushi may have grown up in an orphanage, but she wasn’t uneducated. She came top in her high school and really wanted to continue onto college but wasn’t allowed to do so. So now to be getting the opportunity to go back and fulfil her wish, she was more than happy.

After dinner everyone went up to their bedrooms. Khushi went online to see what she could find out about the college. She was still using Payal’s laptop when Arnav walked into the room. Khushi put the laptop aside and stood up.

“Good evening.”
“You don’t need to say that. It sounds way to formal. Hi is good enough.”
“Erm, ok. Have you had dinner? Or would you like to me get it ready for you Arnavji?”
“It’s fine, I’ve eaten at the office.”
“Ok.”

Khushi looked around and logged out of the laptop and turned it off.

“I’ll just go and give this back to Jiji.”
“You know how to use a laptop?”
“Erm, yes?”
“Oh, okay.”

Khushi felt very slightly offended. Did he think she knew nothing? Khushi left the room, gave Payal her laptop back and then went to see Anjali. She knocked on the door and waited. Then Anjali opened.

“Di, I just wanted to ask…”
“Oh Khushi, I was just coming to you. Shyam ji talked to the principal and he said you can start tomorrow! And you’ll be able to do all 4 courses you wanted to do because your high school grades were really good.”
“Really?!”
“YES!”
“But Di, Arnavji…”
“He’ll be fine with it, just tell him about it when you get back to your room. Also, Khushi just to make things easier, we have got you registered as Miss Khushi Kumari Gupta. They don’t know that you are married to Chote, but they do know you live with us. So, could you not let anyone know that you’re Chote’s wife? It’s just that once people find out they’ll harass you and Chote has to make a formal statement about him being married for the press, and he hasn’t got round to doing that yet.”
“Oh ok.”

Khushi left Anjali and was walking back to her room. Why hadn’t Arnav made a formal statement about being married yet? Was it due to the fact that he didn’t accept it? Or was it because… No, no, it couldn’t be because he wanted to end… No. Just no. It couldn’t be that.
Khushi walked back into her room, in deep thought. She shut the door and then addressed Arnav.

“Arnavji, I start college tomorrow.”
“You what?”
“I start college tomorrow.”
“Which one?”
“Central Delhi college.”
“I see. And I’m guessing Di’s told you that you can’t tell anyone your married to me?”
“Yes, Di’s told me that.”
“Ok, that’s cool then. Have fun.”

Khushi waited for Arnav to say something more, but nothing came.
Would their relationship ever blossom? Or was she destined to live with someone who didn’t care about her for the rest of her life?

Scars ~ Part 7

It was the next morning and Khushi was brushing her hair and getting dressed. Arnav was in the bathroom having a shower. Khushi was still brushing her hair when Arnav walked into the room. Khushi jumped up and grabbed her dupatta. Arnav looked at her and rolled his eyes.

“You don’t need to be so formal when I’m in the room you know.”
“Sorry?”
“Rushing around and creating so much havoc just to get to your darn dupatta.”
“I feel uncomfortable without it when you’re around.”
“Typical.”

Arnav moved away from her and began getting dressed. Khushi couldn’t help but stare at him. He had his trousers on, but his chest and abs were exposed to Khushi’s eyes. She couldn’t help but think of how masculine and strong her husband was…

*****

“Chote have you taken your lunch?”
“Yes Di I have my lunch. God anyone would think you’re sending me to school and not work.”
“Age is only a number, I shall always care for my Chote.”
“Right, sure Di. I’m off.”

With that Arnav left the table and made this way to the door. On his way to the door he bumped into Khushi. She handed him his handkerchief.

“Thanks.”

Khushi smiled, but didn’t get one in return. Arnav left the house and Khushi sadly made her way to the table.

“Good morning Khushi!”
“Morning Di.”
“I love your dress Khushi! It really looks pretty!”
“Thank you.”
“You know, when you showed me this dress yesterday after you came home, I told you it was pretty, but seeing it on you, it looks so much nicer! You look stunning!”

Khushi blushed when Manorama mami walked in.

“Hello hi bye bye, who is this bootiful fairy?”
“Not bootiful mamiji, beautiful!”
“Bootiful, beautiful, what’s the difference Anjali? The fact is our Khushi looks magical.”

Khushi smiled and thanked everyone for their comments. Oh how she wished her husband would say she looked pretty. Payal walked into the room and saw that Khushi looked lost in her thoughts.

“Good morning. Did you sleep well Khushi?”
“Yes I did and good morning to you too Jiji.”
“Have you had breakfast yet?”
“No Jiji, I was waiting for you.”

Payal smiled and nodded and the two sister went and sat down at the dining table. They made small talk and then cleared up after themselves once they had finished eating. They went and sat down in the living room and were talking with Anjali and NK when the phone rang. Naniji answered it first.

“Payal bitya, it’s for you.”

Payal nodded and made her way to the phone. The call wasn’t a long one and she returned soon enough.

“Di, Amma and Bauji are coming!”
“Oh that’s lovely. We should start preparing some snacks.”

In all the excitement Payal forgot about Khushi. When she did remember her, she turned to find Khushi looking very pale. Payal sat down beside her and placed a hand on her shoulder.

“Khushi are you ok?”
“No.”
“It’ll all be okay, don’t worry about it.”
“You would say that wouldn’t you. It’s okay for you, they’re your parents and they love you!”

With that Khushi ran up that stairs and slammed the door shut of her bedroom. Khushi threw herself onto her bed and cried bitterly.

“This isn’t even fair God. I thought me getting married would change my life, but it hasn’t. My life’s more of a mess it was before. I’m married to a man who can’t stand to be around me, and my sister-in-law is actually my cousin who’s parents hate me! Why are you doing this to me God? I should have just stayed at that darn orphanage and continued living as a slave. At least its better than all of this crap I have to deal with now.”

*****

Shashi and Garima arrived about an hour later. They had sat down with everyone, unaware that their niece too was in the house.
Anjali, Naniji and Mamiji left the room so that Payal could talk to her parents in privet.

“What’s wrong my sweetie? You seem so upset today. Is everything ok? Have you had an argument with Damaandji?”
“No its nothing like that.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes I’m sure.”

They spoke for a little while, all the time Payal was concerned about her little sister who had refused to speak to anyone. She was going to tell her parents about Khushi, when Garima called Anjali over.

“Anjali bitya, where’s your new sister-in-law? Arnav beta’s wife?”

Anjali looked at Payal, not knowing what to say.

“Ma, there’s something you should know. Arnav bhai’s wife is… She’s… It’s Khushi.”
“Khushi?”
“Yes.”
“Who’s Khushi?”

Shashi’s eyes widened and then he glared at his wife.

“Khushi, our daughter.”
“We only have one daughter and that’s Payal.”

Garima now knew what everyone meant, but chose to believe or pay any attention to it.
Just then Khushi opened her bedroom door, hoping that her aunt and uncle had already left. However she noticed that they were still there, she suddenly felt lost and didn’t know whether she should turn back and go to her room or continue down the stairs. She was going to turn back when Payal called out for her. Khushi turned to look at her sister and took a deep breath and began going down the stairs.
Garima looked up and saw. Khushi looked exactly how her sister looked. Some things just didn’t change. She looked at Khushi and looked away again, she didn’t care about this girl. Not even after all these years. Shashi on the other hand jumped to his feet and rushed over to Khushi. When he reached her and she reached the bottom of the stairs Shashi hugged her.

“Why, my dear child! How have you been?”
“I erm…”

Shashi let go of Khushi and she stepped away slightly. The tears were prickling in her eyes and she knew she would burst into tears any time soon. She turned to her aunt and saw that she was looking away from her. Shashi felt the tension and tried getting through to Khushi again.

“It’s lovely to see you again Khushi, really, I’ve missed you so much!”
“I… I’ve missed you too…”

Khushi turned to look at her aunt who was still ignoring her. She contemplated what she wanted to do and then slowly approached her aunt.

“Na-Namaste maasi.”
“Huh.”

Khushi looked at her sister, then her uncle and then back to her aunt and rushed off in the direction of her room. Payal glared at her mother.

“Why must you be like this? I don’t know why you don’t like Khushi, I know it has something to do with Maasi, but this isn’t fair on Khushi. She never did anything wrong! She’s been suffering all her life and she’s still suffering! And you know what, because of you, the distance I have gotten rid of recently between us, will probably be back again. So thanks mom, you’ve shown me today how much you really care about me!”

With that Payal stormed out of the room too. Shashi looked at his wife.

“I hope your happy now. You’ve made a suffering girl, suffer even more and you’ve probably pushed our daughter away from us as well. Well done Garima.”

Scars ~ Part 6

A few weeks had passed since Payal and Akaash had returned. Arnav remained distant from Khushi and this did not go unnoticed by the family…

*****

“I want to make an announcement!”
Everyone turned to Nani who was sitting at the top end of the dinner table. She looked to Khushi and Payal and gestured for them to stop serving and sit down.
“Well after chote and Khushi bitya got married I didn’t say much because Akaash beta and Payal weren’t here. Now they are back, I want chote and Khushi to go on their honeymoon.”
“Great idea nani! I was going to mention it myself!”

Arnav looked at Khushi and Khushi looked at Arnav.

“Nani…”
“Chote you can’t make any excuses, you have to go!”
“But Di…”
“Arnav beta, its your honeymoon, you shouldn’t be making excuses not to go!”
“Mamiji, I’m a businessman and my business is at its peak. I can not leave, not for something as minor as a honeymoon.”
“Chote…”
“I’ve made my decision Di, we’re not going and that’s final.”
“Your words mean nothing chote, lets see what Khushi bitya has to say.”

Everyone turned to Khushi who looked around. Khushi looked down. How could they make her decide something as big as this? Of course she wanted to go on honeymoon, it was her honeymoon for god sake! But she looked at Arnav. He had been nice to her, but she could tell he didn’t like her much at all. He kept his distance from her and only spoke to her when necessary.

“There’s nothing much I can say, if Arnav ji is saying we can’t go, then I guess we can’t go.”
“There now even Khushi doesn’t mind. So can everyone please stop trying to dictate and let us drive our own relationship!”

Arnav got up and left the table. Khushi watched him leave and sighed. Relationship? What relationship? The truth was there was no relationship between them. Arnav had wanted them to be friends, but they weren’t. There was no friendship between them.
Khushi noticed Anjali’s face fall when Arnav left the room.

“It’s ok Di. We can go on honeymoon another time.”
“But Khushi, it would be nice if you go now!”
“I know, but really di, its ok.”

Payal smiled. Her sister was still as giving and understanding as ever.

“Di, would you like to go shopping with me and Khushi today?”
“Oh, I can’t today Payal, my friends are coming round. But you and Khushi go and enjoy yourselves!”
“Ok Di.”

Payal turned to Khushi.

“Get ready! Me and you are going shopping after ages Khushi!”
“But I haven’t got any money.”
“Khushi, I’m your sister, I’ll pay for you!”
“No, I cant do that!”
“Khushi, you do consider me your sister right?”
“Of course Jiji.”
“Then its settled, I’m paying!”

Khushi nodded and then went up to her room to get dressed.
She picked her bag and phone up and then left.
Payal and Khushi met and the front door and then left the house. They got the driver to take them into town.

“Mohitji, Blue Waters Mall please.”
“Ji Payal Bhabi.”

The drive to the mall was quiet and Khushi made little conversation. This was the first time she and Payal had been completely on their own.
Payal decided there would be plenty of time for her to speak with Khushi when they reached the mall.

Within a short while, they arrived at their destination and they got out of the car.

“So where do you want to go first Khushi?”
“I’ve never been here before.”
“Then it’s a good thing your first visit here is with me!”
“Jiji, this place is very exclusive and designer.”
“So?”
“I don’t shop at places like this Jiji.”
“Well you should get used to it. You are a Raizada daughter in law and you’re my sister! This is the only place I’ll ever let you come shopping in now!”

Khushi looked away. She had hardly been shopping in the last god knows how many years. She was wearing rags more or less all the time up until she got married.
Payal looked at Khushi. She sighed and then decided that they should go to her favourite boutique. They entered the shop and Khushi looked around amazed. There were tonnes and tonnes of dresses and kameezes.

“You like this shop Khushi?”
“It’s amazing!”
“Di brought me here the first time we came shopping after me and Akaash got married. It’s my favourite place ever!”
“I like it too!”
“Come on then! Lets pick some nice kameezes for you!”
“Jiji, I…”
“No if and or buts Khushi, Di has given me extra money so that we buy you some nice stuff! And Akaash has given me his card and said that anything you want to buy we should just pay it with his card and he’ll happily pay the bill.”
“Jiji, I can’t do that.”
“Of course you can. You’re my sister, you have some right over your brother in laws money!”

Khushi smiled and she and Payal began looking at the dresses on the racks. Payal picked out various different dresses and got Khushi to try them on.

*****

After hours of tedious shopping Khushi and Payal decided to call it a day and have something to eat.

“Where did you and Jijaji meet?”
“We met in the coffee shop outside of my collage. I dropped my change and he picked it up for me.”
“And that was the start of your love story?”
“Pretty much!”
“Jiji, that’s a horrid starting to a love story!”

Payal laughed.

“Its nothing special, but it was the start of our love.”
“So you fell in love with Jijaji because he picked your money up?”
“Of course not. We had coffee together and then we got talking and then he gave me his number. After that we met a few times and we spoke almost every day.”
“Didn’t aunty and uncle say anything?”
“No not really.”
“Oh, ok.”

Khushi decided she no longer wanted to talk about her aunt and uncle. Payal too realised this.

“So how are you and Arnav ji getting on?”
“Ok I guess.”
“Have you guys…”

Payal looked away feeling shy at what she wanted to know from her little sister.

“Have we what?”
“Have you… I can’t say it Khushi.”
“What are you trying to say Jiji?”
“Have you guys consummated your marriage?”
“WHAT!? OF COURSE NOT!”
“Sorry, sorry, was just curious.”
“Jiji, do you really think we’d done THAT? Gosh he doesn’t even like me.”
“I’m sure he does.”
“No Jiji, Arnav ji doesn’t like me. He hardly talks to me and he avoids me all the time.”
“Khushi, Arnav ji just needs a bit of time. He never wanted to get married so soon, it’s only because of di and dadi ji he decided to get married. I think you should try and spend some time together to get to know each other more.”
“Yeah, I guess so.”

Payal felt as though they had hit another blocked road.

“So shall we head back home now?”
“Ok.”

*****

Payal looked at her little sister beside her and thought deeply. Khushi had already been hurt over and over again in life; she couldn’t let Khushi get hurt again. Not ever, she would do anything but let Khushi get hurt again.

Scars ~ Part 5

“Kh-Khushi?”
“Jiji?”

The two women looked at each other. Payal bit her lip and looked at Khushi. Anjali realised something wasn’t right and walked over to Khushi and Payal.

“Do you already know each other?”
“Di…”
“Tell me Khushi.”
“Di…”
“Fine Payal you tell me.”
“Di, Khushi… Khushi is my… She’s my cousin.”
“What?”

Khushi looked away, feeling the tears gathering in her eyes as the memories re-entered her mind.

“I think we should all sit down.”

Payal and Anjali walked towards the sofas and sat down. Khushi remained exactly where she was.

“Khushi, you come too.”

Khushi nodded her head and joined her cousin and her sister-in-law.

“Payal please explain this to me. Khushi has spent almost all her life in our family orphanage…”
“My mom and Khushi’s mom were sister. After Maasi and Mausaji died, Khushi came to live with us…”

*Flashback*
“Payal! Look who’s here!”
“KHUSHI! I haven’t seen you in so long!”
“I missed you so much Jiji.”

Payal looked down at her 8 year old cousin and smiled. She loved Khushi. Khushi was the little sister she always wanted but never had. But nevertheless, Payal treated Khushi as her own sister and Khushi did the same.”

“Payal, from today, Khushi will live with us forever.”
“Really Babuji!?”
“Yes.”
“That’s great! But why? What about Maasi and Mausaji?”

Khushi looked down at this point. Her eyes brimming with tears. Payal noticed this.

“What’s wrong Khushi?”

Khushi hugged her big sister.

“Mama and Papa are dead Jiji! A bad man killed them.” Khushi started crying.

Both Shashi and Payal tried to console Khushi, but found it immensely difficult. At this point Garima walked into the room.

“What’s Khushi doing here?”
“Garima…” And Shashi explained how Khushi’s parents were brutally murdered by a mass murderer and how Khushi was spared because she was a child.
“So we have to look after her now?”
“Yes Garima. We are her only family.”
“I refuse to care for my sisters burden of child.”
“Garima, don’t be like this. Khushi is a child. Whatever you had against your sister is the past. We must care for little Khushi.”
“Fine. But I refuse to care for her as my own. I will never see her as my own, you know that.”
“Fine. Don’t care for YOUR SISTERS daughter. I’ll bring Jiji here to look after Khushi. She needs someones warm arms to fall asleep in at night.”
“Do as you wish.”

*Flashback ends*

Payal concluded the story. Of course she didn’t tell Anjali about how her mother reacted with Khushi. Khushi too was remembering the first day she came to live with her cousin. She was so happy. To begin with, she didn’t realise her aunt didn’t want her around. But after that she started realising that her aunt seemed very cold with her…

*Flashback*
“What on Earth is that racket?”
“It’s me Maasi! I’m practising for our school recital!”
“Oh no you’re not! You are not playing that thing under this roof.”
“But Maasi! I have to practise!”
“I said NO!”

Payal ran into the room.

“Really Ma she does have to practise. Otherwise they won’t let her be a part of the recital.”
“Payal dear. You should be practising for your play. Go do that.”

Payal looked sadly at her cousin. Khushi put down her little recorder. Garima gave Khushi a cold smile and walked out of the room. The moment Garima left, Khushi’s tears poured out of her eyes. She walked over to the little photograph of her mother and father and hugged it to herself.

“Why did you leave me? Please let me come to you mama. I miss you papa. I hate it here. Maasi hates me. Please tell God to let me come to you too, please…”

*Flashback ends*

Payal went and sat beside her little sister. She noticed Khushi was lost in thought and put her arm around her.

“Hey…”

Khushi looked at her sister, an expression of discomfort on her face. Anjali noticed this.

“Why don’t you guys go up to one of your bedrooms and talk. I think you sisters need some time to catch up with one another.”

Khushi nodded and stood up. Payal too got up. Khushi walked up the stairs and led Payal to hers and Arnav’s bedroom. Once inside she shut the door and sat on the sofa. Payal sat beside her and looked around.

“You know, me and Akaash have been married just over a year and I’ve never been in Arnav bhai’s room before.”
“You’ve been married over a year?”
“Yup!”
“Congratulations!”
“Thank you… How have you been?”
“Ok, what about you.”
“I’ve been well. I missed you Khushi.”
“Hm…”
“Are you angry with me?”
“Why would I be angry with you Jiji?”
“Because…”
“I’m not. How’s Mausaji?”
“He’s well. He’s missed you too.”
“And Buaji?”
“She doesn’t live with us any more. She got angry with Ma and left the day after you left.”
“Oh.”
“Khushi, really. Talk to me, how have you been?”
“I told you, I’ve been absolutely fine.”

Payal noticed Khushi’s absolute tone and decided not to say anything more. She knew that pressing Khushi now would just mean pushing her further away. So she decided to change the subject.

“So you’ve been here a while now. How’s it been? Have you settled in?”
“I guess so.”
“How’s bhai been?”
“Erm… Okay?”
“Right well. Khushi we’ll talk again some time soon, but I want to go and freshen up now.”
“Okay.”

Payal got to her feet and left the room. Khushi watched her cousin go. Once the door was shut, Khushi let all her tears flow.

“Why are you doing this to me God? After all these years, after all this pain, I find a new life. Please, I love Jiji, but please don’t let my past ruin my future. Please God.”

Payal who was still outside Khushi’s door moved away. Her Khushi was in so much pain. Always, as a child she was in pain. And now again. Payal slowly began to walk away, her memories haunting her.

*Flashback*
“Ma where are we going? Papa tell me na.”
“Payal…”

The car came to a halt outside a large, dull grey building. Shashi and Garima began getting out, Payal and Khushi followed.

“Why are we here Ma?”
“This is Khushi’s new home.”

Khushi looked at her aunt, her eyes wide.

“Are we staying here too then?”
“No just Khushi. Come along.”

Garima grabbed Khushi’s hand and led her into the building. Payal tried to rush after, but her father stopped her.

“Babuji! Please I don’t want Khushi to go!”
“There’s nothing I can do beta. Your mother wont listen to me!”
“Why does she hate Khushi so much? Khushi loves her!”
“I know she does.”
“I HATE AMMA, I WILL NEVER FORGIVE HER FOR SEPARATING ME AND MY LITTLE SISTER!”

*Flashback ends*

“I promise you Khushi. I will make sure you get nothing but happiness now. My life aim is to make sure you’re always happy. And I will make sure of it. That’s your Jiji’s promise to you.”

Scars ~ Part 4

Khushi woke up before Arnav the next morning. She looked at her husband/friend and smiled. Maybe, gradually, she’d get all the happiness she never used to get before. Maybe, just maybe…

*****

“Good morning Chote! You’re up late today.”
“Just really tired and I don’t have any early meetings so I can take my time before getting to work.”
“Oh I see. Well Breakfasts ready so eat!”
“Di, when’s Akaash and Payal coming back?”
“I completely forgot! They come back today!”

“Seriously?!”

“Yes! They get in at 7 today!”

“Oh damn! I’ll have to go receive them then won’t I?”

“No, Akaash said not to worry, he’s got something arranged.”

“Oh alright then.”

“Chote, what time did you get home yesterday?”

“Half 11. Why?”

“Chote, I told you to come home early. Khushi was waiting for you.”

“Yes I know she was, but I had work. My works important to me too you know.”

“I understand, but I thought I made it clear to you that I wanted you to spend time with Khushi and make her feel loved.”

“If I did that Di, I’d be lying to her. You know I don’t love her. Nor do I really care about her. I only married her for your sake. Nothing else.”

“But you’ve married her now, give this relationship an opportunity.”

“Di. Just stop. You know Khushi isn’t the kind of girl for me. Say I accepted her. She’d still never be able to give me what I want. What I need.”

“You don’t know that! You don’t know anything about her. How can you say so much even before having a proper conversation with her?”

“She’s an orphan Di, who grew up in a slum of an orphanage. She has no idea what class is or how to mingle with people of my society.”

“Chote, you’re being bang out of order.”

“It might be an orphanage you fund for, but its still a mess. You know it. But that doesn’t even matter. What matters is she isn’t my kind of girl and never will be!”

At this point Arnav got to his feet and walked towards the front door. On his way to the door he bumped into Khushi.

“Oh, er, good morning Arnavji! Have you had breakfast?”

“No.”

“I’ll get you your breakfast now then.”

“Don’t bother. I’m off.”

Without another moments thought Arnav walked out of the house. Khushi turned around to find a flustered looking Anjali and made her way to her.

“What’s the matter Di? Is he upset with me again? I know I’m running a bit late… But…”

“No, no. It’s not you. He’s just got a lot on his mind.”

“Oh I see. Have you eaten Di?”

“No I haven’t, and neither have you. So we shall eat together!”

Khushi smiled and the two of them made their way to the dining table.

*****

*Ding Dong*

Anjali rushed towards the door and threw it open. Before her stood a handsome man whose features resembled Arnav’s…

“Di!”

“Akaash!”

The two hugged.

“Gosh Di, I’ve missed you so, so, so much!”

“I have missed you too!”

Along with Akaash was a tall and beautiful woman in a pink sari.

“Payal! I missed you! The house is always dead without you!”

“I missed you too Di, you should have come with us. No wedding is a wedding without you!”

“I know, but while you were off enjoying a wedding, I had to organise my Chote’s wedding.”

The trio walked into the house and sat down in the living room.

“But honestly Di, you got Bhai married without us around.”

“Akaash, like I said on the phone, we couldn’t wait. I’m really sorry. It wasn’t a big thing and we didn’t have time to wait around.”

“We understand, its ok. We can have a big party later on.”

“We could… But I don’t think Chote would be up for it. He’s not really happy with the wedding…”

“Where is our new Bhabi?”

“She’s just gone to get changed. She’s been really excited about you guys coming home. She’s been really eager to meet Payal. I think the idea of her having someone close to her age to talk to is something she’s really looking forward to.”

“I am too! It would be lovely to have someone else to talk to and go shopping with as well.”

At that precise moment Khushi began descending the stairs. Payal looked up smiling…

“What? No, it can’t be…”

Payal got to her feet and walked towards Khushi. Khushi now looked up at the woman approaching her. Payal sopped a few feet away from Khushi.

“Kh-Khushi?”

“Jiji?”

Scars ~ Part 3

 

Arnav walked into the house at 11:30 and found the entire house to be dark. He didn’t bother switching the lights on. It was late and everyone would probably be asleep and he didn’t want to disturb them. Arnav walked into the kitchen and looked around. Strange, there wasn’t any food left on side for him. Arnav shrugged his shoulders and left the kitchen and went into the dining room. There he saw Khushi asleep on the table. He walked towards her and tapped her shoulder. Khushi awoke with a jerk.

“Oh, er, Arnavji you’re back! I didn’t realise. Oh I’m so sorry! Let me quickly warm your food for you.”
“Khushi it’s ok. You go to bed. I’ll eat.”
“No, no Arnavji. It’s ok. This is my duty! I don’t mind.”
“Well I do! For goodness sake Khushi, I get home after a long days work and I find you asleep, my food cold and then you’re mumbling about god knows what!”
“Arnavji, I’m sorry…”
“Just shut up Khushi!”

Khushi looked at Arnav with large eyes. She looked down, fighting back the tears and then rushed away and flew up the stairs to their bedroom. Arnav watched her go.

“Shit, I made her cry!” Arnav ran his hand through his hair and rushed after her. Arnav pushed to door open slowly to find Khushi holding her knees close to her chest, crying. He walked over to her side and sat beside her. Gently he reached out for her.

“Khushi…”

Khushi moved her body away. Arnav moved closer to her.

“Khushi, listen. I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to snap at you. It just happened. It’s been a long day at work and I’m hungry and you were blubbering. It was all just too much. But that doesn’t excuse how I spoke to you. I’m sorry.”
“It’s alright. I understand.”

Arnav offered Khushi his hand and she took it. He helped her up and sat her down onto the bed.

“Khushi, I want to tell you something today. This marriage, I did it for the sake of my family. I don’t see you as my wife. Not now any way. I need time. I can’t accept you as my wife right away because I hardly know you. Khushi I want to get to know you. What you like, what you don’t like. I want us to be friends.”

Khushi looked up.

“Friends?”
“Yes, I want us to be friends.”
“I do too.”
“Really?”
“Yes, I would like to get to know more about you Arnavji.”
“That’s great! Well now. I’m hungry. Have you eaten?”
“Well, I…”
“You haven’t right? Come on Khushi, we’ll go eat together.”

Khushi nodded and they left their bedroom and made their way downstairs. Arnav sat at the table while Khushi went to heat up the food.
After a while Khushi came back.

“No, it’s ok, you don’t need to serve me.”
“But I want to.”
“Alright then.”

Khushi served Arnav a bit of all the things Anjali had said he liked.

*****

“Wow, that food was nice!”
“Yes! It was. Di is an amazing cook!”
“That she certainly is! Right well, its been a long day, we should get into bed.”
“I’ll just tidy up and then I’ll come up.”
“Ok.”

Arnav left and Khushi went to tidy up the dishes. Once she was done, she dried her hands and made her way towards their bedroom. She opened the door to find Arnav was already in bed. She smiled to him and then shut the door. She went into the bathroom and got ready for bed.
Khushi came back and got into bed too. Arnav smiled to her.

“I really am sorry about before.”
“Really its ok Arnavji. I understand.”
“Well goodnight.”
“Goodnight.”

Khushi turned her back to him and fell asleep almost instantly. Arnav on the other hand was awake for much longer. Only one thing was passing his mind. Only one thought. “I don’t deserve Khushi…”

Scars ~ Part 2

Arnav woke up the next morning and slowly turned. Khushi was still asleep beside him. He shook his head and got off the bed and went into the bathroom with his clothes and towel. Arnav stripped his clothes away and went into the shower cubical and turned the cold water on. The water cascaded down his body. What had his life come to? He had finally allowed his sister and nani to make the biggest decision of his life. He was now a married man, with a mere girl as his wife. What were they thinking? She was only 19! Still a child in his eyes. How could they think this marriage would ever work, given the fact they knew he would never have a place in his heart for her. Once he felt himself calm down, he turned the hot water on and showered normally.

When Arnav got out of the bathroom he saw that Khushi was awake and had tidied the bed.

“Good morning.”

“Good morning Arnav ji.”

She smiled and then went into the bathroom to get ready.

Arnav waited until she was ready and they went down to have breakfast together.

Anjali saw the new couple walking down the stairs and smiled.

“The bride and groom are finally coming!”

Khushi blushed and Arnav simply nodded in acknowledgement. Anjali watched her brother come and sit down; he was how she had expected him to look. Anjali signed and sat down at the table as well.

“Khushi beta, sit down.”

Khushi nodded and Anjali passed Khushi a plate and helped her get food.

“Did you sleep well Khushi?”

“Yes I did Anjali ma’am.”

“Is chote looking after you?”

Khushi turned to Arnav and smiled and then nodded her head.

“Do you want anything, is there anything we can get you to feel more at home?”

“I am fine there is nothing else I want.”

“Khushi, please, you can’t call me Anjali ma’am anymore. Please, call me di.”

Khushi blushed and then nodded.

“Ji, Di.”

Arnav rolled his eyes and finished eating.

“I’m going to work di.”

“You can’t go to work, you’ve only just got married!”

“And? I have important work to do and Khushi has you guys to look after her. Any way, when are Akaash and Payal coming back?”

“Should be in the next few days, they want to see Khushi before you go off on your honeymoon.”

“Right, whatever, I’m off.”

Arnav finished his breakfast and left the table. Anjali sighed and realised that Arnav wasn’t going to move on with Khushi and forget about everything that had happened before.

“I will make sure you accept this relationship chote, I’m not going to let you hurt her, we are now her family, the only people she’s got and we have to take care of her.”

After finishing her breakfast, Khushi sat with Anjali, nani, mamiji and NK. They talked about many different topics. Anjali showed pictures of their family from when they were younger. Khushi laughed to see some of the expressions Arnav and Anjali had pulled.  One of the most recent pictures, showed Arnav shirtless holding a football trophy in his hands with many other men around him. Khushi gazed at the photograph. The man in the picture was her husband. His body was well built and toned. Khushi blushed looking at it, and turned her head away.

*****

“Chote why aren’t you back yet?”

“Di I told you, I have lots of work to do here.”

“Yes but you should be here, helping Khushi getting settled.”

“Di, you’re there, you do what you do best and make her feel comfortable.”

“When will you be back?”

“I’ll be late, don’t wait up for me.”

Before Anjali could say anything more, Arnav disconnected the call. Anjali sighed, maybe this was going to be harder than she had imagined.

Anjali went downstairs and helped to start getting dinner ready. Once everything was done, everyone came together to eat.

“Di, I’ll wait until Arnav ji gets back and I’ll eat with him.”

“He said he’ll be late Khushi, you eat with us.”

“Di, I’ll feel bad if I don’t serve him dinner.”

“You’re so cute! Alright, fine, but if he’s too late, you eat and go to bed.”

Khushi smiled. Everyone finished dinner, cleared up and then went to their respective bedrooms to go to sleep. Khushi sat at the table with her phone in her hand, playing a game. She looked at the time, it was only half 8, he wouldn’t be too much later now.