Jalebi ~ Part 36

 

The long awaited day had finally arrived. It was finally Khushi and Rohan’s wedding day.

At the wedding venue, there was a great amount of hustle and bustle as everyone made sure that everything was in place and that all arrangements had been done properly. Khushi’s father, alongside Payal’s father, rushed around, making sure that the catering service had prepared all the food properly, while Khushi’s mother and Payal made sure that all of Khushi’s things were properly packed.

 

“Ma, Payal, you guys need to stop worrying. Even if I don’t have all my stuff it isn’t a big deal, in a weeks time me and him are moving back into my house.”

 

As Rohan and his family were primarily based in London, they didn’t have their own home in Delhi any more. As a result, it meant that Khushi didn’t actually have a sasural here where she would have to live.

For the purpose of rituals and traditions, Rohan’s uncle had said that they could welcome the new bride into their home and that Khushi and Rohan could stay there until they went for their honeymoon. Then, when they came back, they would move back into Khushi’s apartment.

Some girls dreamed to have a sasural, others not so much. Khushi found herself on this side of the spectrum, she was glad that she wouldn’t always have to live with in-laws. When Khushi thought that she may be marrying Arnav, she had been overjoyed at the idea of living with her in laws, of living with Payal. But now… Considering all the changes, she was glad for not having immediate in laws in India. It would mean that there would be less pressure on her. And she would have to feign happiness less.

 

“We know you’re going to be moving back into your own home, but you still need to make sure you have your things so you can stay there without any issues.”

 

Giving a noncommittal grunt Khushi turned away and Lalita threw her hands into her hair and turned to Payal. Khushi was driving her insane! She wasn’t making decisions about anything, she wasn’t getting a move on, she wasn’t doing anything! It was her wedding day, yet she was completely stoic about everything.

Nodding to her aunt, Payal signalled that she would handle it. Waiting until her masi left the room, Payal went over to shut the door and then came and sat beside Khushi.

 

“Khushi, what’s the matter.”

“Nothings the matter jiji.”

“Khushi…”

 

Letting out a sigh, Khushi turned to her cousin, letting her shoulders drop.

 

“It’s just all of this. I’m expected to constantly be smiling and to be that blushing bride, but I can’t. I don’t feel like smiling and as far as feeling shy goes, all these suggestive comments that everyone is making, I know they mean nothing, because I know I’m not going to be getting down with my husband tonight so…”

“I’ve said it to you over and over again Khushi, if this isn’t what you really want, there’s still time to walk away.”

 

Khushi knew that there was still time to walk away, but she also knew it was too late. The guests has started arriving, her groom was ready, she was ready. She couldn’t get cold feet and back out now.”

 

“How is he? Arnav I mean? Especially after the fashion show?”

“He’s been… Disturbed. He doesn’t really interact with anyone, Akash said he’s been keeping himself busy with work. But I saw the way his face fell when he realised that all of us were coming to your wedding today.”

“Did he say anything?”

“He didn’t say anything to me and Akash obviously because he knows we need to be here. But he did ask Di why she felt the need to come. She explained that your parents invited everyone on account if them being my in laws and that they had to go otherwise it would seem rude. I don’t think he was too impressed with that.”

 

Sighing, Khushi turned her attention back to the mirror and looked at herself. She knew she looked beautiful, but she didn’t look like the bride she wanted to be. And that was down to the fact that her groom wasn’t the man she wanted.

Placing her hand on Khushi’s shoulder, Payal looked at Khushi through the mirror, trying to tell her it would all be okay.

A little while later, there was a little knock at the door and Payal told whoever it was to come in. Anjali walked in tentatively.

 

“Di?”

 

Turning, Khushi looked up at Anjali, her eyes wide.

 

“Di, aap?”

 

Shutting the door, Anjali came and sat down on the stool by Khushi’s side.

 

“Hi Khushi, I’m okay, you?”

“I’m okay.”

 

There was a pause, a silence stretching out between the three ladies in the room. Payal decided that maybe she should give them some space so excuses herself. With Payal gone, Anjali felt herself loosen up a bit, felt a bit braver.

 

“You look beautiful.”

“Thank you Di… I mean, Anjali ji.”

 

Realising how inappropriate it was now to call her Di, Khushi felt the need to change the way she addressed Anjali.

 

“You don’t have to stop calling me Di. It may not have worked out between you and Chote but that doesn’t mean that I don’t still care for you. Please, keep calling me Di. I really like it.”

“Okay Di.”

 

Looking away again, Khushi realised that there was much that she needed to say, and something she needed to do.

Taking hold of her bag that was sat beside her, she fished in it until her felt the little velvet box under her fingers. Pulling it out, she took one last look at it before handing it back to Anjali.

 

“Can you… Can you give that back to him. I can’t keep it.”

 

Looking between Khushi and the ring box, Anjali felt at a loss. She didn’t know what to do.

 

“I can’t…”

“Please take it and give it back to him. I can’t keep it.”

“I think he’d want you to keep it.”

“I understand that, but if I held onto it, I’ll never be able to move forward in my life.”

 

It made sense, Anjali knew that. But she also knew that if she took this ring back, it really would be the end of Arnav and Khushi and she wasn’t sure it she was ready for that. But alas, she knew that she couldn’t be selfish and took the box from Khushi.

Tears fell from Khushi’s eyes as she handed the box over. It really was over.

 

“I’m sorry Di. I hope you know that I’m really sorry.”

“Sh, it’s okay.”

“And tell him I’m sorry as well.”

 

Nodding, Anjali got to her feet because she didn’t know how much longer she could remain here without having a breakdown on behalf of her brother.

 

“I wish you a very happy married life Khushi.”

 

And with that, Anjali left. The moment the door shut behind Anjali, Khushi get herself completely shatter. She had given back Arnav’s ring. Their relationship was done.

Sat alone in the room, Khushi waited for someone to come for her when there was a little knock on the door.

 

“Come in.”

 

Slowing pushing the door open, Lalita returned and took the seat next to her daughter.

 

“Mom…”

“Dekho Khushi. I’m saying this for the very last time, if this isn’t what is going to make you happy, there is still time to turn back. It’s not too late yet.”

 

Bless her mother. She had been repeating the same thing over and over again. She knew that Rohan wasn’t who she truly wanted to be with.

 

“I told you Ma, this is what I want.”

“I hope you know what you’re doing Khushi. I really do.”

“I do.”

 

*****

 

The main wedding ceremony was about to begin. The baraat had arrived and Khushi was seated beside Rohan on the stage. They greeted guests while they waited for the auspicious time to arrive. Looking around, Khushi took in all the guests that had come to the wedding. As she looked around, she saw an upset looking Anjali towards the back of the hall. Shyam has his arm around her, talking to her, patting her. She then saw Naniji. She too didn’t look entirely happy.

Carrying on round, Khushi’s eyes finally fell on her mother. She looked so pale, her smile so forced. Khushi knew her mother wasn’t convinced by what she had said, and it showed.

Sighing, Khushi turned away. But her attention was brought back when a whole lot of static played overhead.

Turning her attention the sound desk, she saw Arnav.

 

“Testing, can everyone hear me?”

 

There was a pause as Arnav waited for a response. People started turning his way to see what he had to say.

Feeling her palms start to go all sweaty, Khushi felt herself panic. What was he going to say, what was he going to do?

 

“What is he doing?” Hissed Rohan. Shrugging her shoulders, Khushi turned back to Arnav.

“Hi everyone, I’m Arnav Singh Raizada. Some people may know that Khushi and I were in business together before. I’ve come here today to wish her and Rohan a happy married life.”

 

Khushi watched Shyam and Akash daft through the crowd and make their way over to Arnav. They must have been telling him to come away, but he wasn’t done yet.

 

“I would like to present a song for the lovely couple.”

 

The guests, unaware of anything, began to clap, thinking Arnav was being sweet. But Khushi had a sick feeling in her stomach. Why was he here? Why would he come today? Why on her wedding day? Didn’t he realise how hard it was going to be any way without him actually turning up here?

But before any other thoughts could pass through Khushi’s mind, the music started up.

 

Of course, of course he would pick this song. The insinuations weren’t missed by the guests, many turned to Khushi, eyebrows raised. They knew what was going on here.

 

“Channa mereya mereya, o piya… O piyaa…”

 

Tears fell from Khushi eyes. Why would he do this? How could he… But Khushi watched as the tears fell from his eyes as well and she realised how he could do this. She’d hurt him beyond anything else.

Arnav kept singing the soulful lyrics, the guests completely swept away by him. When finally the song came to an end, there was a big round of applause for Arnav, as he took a little bow. Getting out from behind the sound desk, Khushi watched as Shyam put his arm around Arnav and led him away to where the rest of the Raizada’s were sat.

Looking away, Khushi turned to Rohan because she knew he would need calming down, only to find Rohan was no longer seated beside her. Turning back, she saw him, making his way over to Arnav.

 

Oh no.

 

If Arnav had created a scene, it meant Rohan was going to create more of a scene now.
By the time Rohan was able to make it across the crowd, Arnav had already started turning away to leave. He was at the door when Rohan places his hand on his shoulder, stopping him.

 

“We need to talk.”

“I’m sorry, I can’t be here any longer.”

“You came here today, now you have to wait until I dismiss you.”

 

Guiding Arnav back into the venue, Rohan steered him towards an empty room down the side. Pushing Arnav in first, he followed him in, shutting the door behind them.

Away from all the crowds and in the dim light, Rohan really took Arnav in. His eyes were red, he had large bags under his eyes, and his hair and beard were all starting to go slightly out of control.

Rohan had come in here with every intention to beat the crap out of Arnav for creating a scene on his wedding day, but looking at him now… Rohan felt for the man in front of him. The first time he’d met Arnav, every aspect of him was clean cut and perfect. Now, Arnav was the complete opposite. It was also evident that Arnav had lost a fair amount of weight.

 

“Why did you come here today?”

“I don’t know… I hoped… I don’t know.”

“What did you hope?”

 

Rohan watched as Arnav tried to answer. But there was no answer, just tears.

 

“Arnav…”

 

Wiping his tears away, he pulled on a smile.

 

“I’m sorry, I don’t know what’s up with me. I’m fine. I should leave.”

 

Turning to the door, Arnav was ready to bolt. He didn’t want to be here, he didn’t want to be sharing the same space or the same air as Rohan.

 

“Wait! Let me speak.”

 

Letting out a sigh, Arnav turned his attention back to Rohan.

 

“Do you love her?”

“What kind of a question is that?”

“It’s a serious one and one I need an answer to, right now.”

“I’d have thought it was obvious.”

“It was, up until you publicly called out yesterday for being a cheat.”

 

Rohan watched as Arnav turned away again, his cheeks the lightest shade of pink.

 

“I need to apologise to her for that. I didn’t mean to… I wasn’t drunk, but I’d had a few drinks to calm myself down and I guess… I reacted badly last night. I wanted to make it up to her, but I realise my song choice today wasn’t ideal either.”

“It wasn’t. Especially when you’re so transparent. I think all the guests realised that you’re in love with her.”

 

There was a pause. Neither men could think of anything to say.

 

“Just keep her happy Rohan, that’s all I ask. I know it must be weird, marrying her, knowing everything you know about us, but please. Be good to her. She picked you because she sees a future with you, so keep her happy.”

 

Once again, Arnav turned to leave but Rohan stopped him.

 

“I will. I’ll make her happy. I’ll bring her smile back again, and give her the happy ending she deserves. I promise you Arnav.”

Jalebi ~ Part 35

 

By the time Khushi and Rohan got home from the engagement party, it was quite late at night. Khushi’s parents had been invited to stay at Payal’s maternal home with her parents for the night.

Kicking off her shoes, Khushi stretched out her legs and began unpinning her dupatta from her lengha top. As she put her dupatta down, she heard a voice behind her.

 

“Wow, you are gorgeous.”

 

Looking into the mirror, Khushi saw Rohan stood by the door staring at her. Grabbing hold of her dupatta, Khushi covered her chest before turning around.

 

“Rohan! What are you…”

 

Slowly walking towards her, Rohan stepped right up to Khushi and placed a hand on her waist. Khushi squirmed ever so slightly against his touch but didn’t move.

Raising his hand, he slowly pushed her dupatta off one shoulder, letting it fall, exposing her chest.

Jumping away slightly, Khushi attempted to cover herself back up, but Rohan stopped her.

 

“Rohan…”

“Let’s do it tonight.”

“Do what?”

“Consummate our marriage.”

 

Eyes wide, Khushi covered herself up and moved back. Rohan slowly made his way towards her again.

 

“We can’t. We’re not married yet.”

“Technicalities. We will be soon and I don’t want to wait any more.”

 

Khushi carried on moving back until her back hit the wall. Rohan came right up to her, his face a mere inch away from hers.

 

“Rohan…”

 

Hand on her waist, he brushed her dupatta away again, but this time letting it fall away from her completely. Raising her arms, Khushi attempted to cover herself.

 

“You don’t need to cover yourself from me. Soon I’m going to see everything.”

“Rohan please.”

 

One hand still on her waist, he ran his finger down the side of her face and followed it down her neck.

 

“Stop!”

 

With all her might, Khushi pushed Rohan away from herself, grabbed her dupatta and moved to the other side of the room.

 

“What the fuck Khushi? Why do you act like that?”

“I told you I wasn’t comfortable with all this and you still…”

“Not comfortable my ass. Act as innocent as you want but you forget I’ve seen you having sex with Arnav. So don’t you dare act like…”

“Exactly! With Arnav! You’re not Arnav! I don’t feel comfortable… I’m not ready to… I can’t with you okay!”

 

Shaking his head, Rohan grabbed a fistful of his hair and yanked on it. He’d waited so long to be with Khushi and now that he had her, she was still keeping her distance from him.
Rohan realised that he was wasting his time and so just left Khushi’s room.

The moment he was gone, Khushi rushed over to her bedroom door and locked it, before coming back and sitting on her bed. Covering her face with her hands, it dawned on her how much of a mess she was actually in. She may have been able to tell Rohan to back off today, but soon they would be married and she didn’t know how long she’d be able to hold him off for.

As her husband, it would be his right to get intimate with her. How long would she be able to say no? In her heart, Khushi knew that she’d never be ready to do it with Rohan. Whether her love for Arnav would decrease or not, she knew that the relationship she’d shared with Arnav was special and unique. She didn’t think she’d be able to replicate something like that with Rohan.

 

*****

 

Payal returned home and found Arnav and Akash sat together in the living room, watching tv together and laughing. It felt good to see the two of them together and happy. It showed that Arnav had come to terms with what had happened between himself and Akash and maybe now they would be able to move forward happily.

Akash noticed Payal first. Getting to his feet, he walked over to her and placed his hand on her waist.

 

“Hi.”

“Hi.”

 

Something seemed different about Akash. He seemed a lot more at ease and his touch felt much more warm and tentative than it had ever done before.

 

“How was the party? I’m sorry I didn’t come with you, I should’ve done.”

“It was okay and it’s alright. You’ll have to come with me to all the other rituals.”

“Did Khushi…”

 

Looking over his shoulder, Akash saw that Arnav was no longer paying attention to them.

 

“Did Khushi say anything?”

“She asked for you and said you should have come. Other than that, she said we should all start moving forwards with our lives because that’s what she’s trying to do.”

“So she’s actually happy?”

 

Sighing, Payal took Akash’s hand and pulled him further away from where Arnav was sitting.

 

“Honestly, I don’t know why she’s going ahead with this. It’s evident that she’s still very much in love with bhai.”

 

Running his hand through his hair and saw his brother sitting and watching tv.

 

“This is all my fault. I’ve ruined everything for them.”

 

Placing a light kiss on Akash’s cheek, Payal took his hands in her own.

 

“I’m not going to lie and say you didn’t cause this. But at the same time I will say that it’s okay. You messed up but you realise you were wrong and you’ve tried to fix your error. Both bhai and Khushi have forgiven you, so we should all just try and move forward now.”

“And what about you? Do you forgive me?”

 

Pressing her hand on his cheek, Payal smiled.

 

“I love you more than anything. I got annoyed at you, but everyone makes mistakes. So yes, I have forgiven you.”

 

Taking her hand back in his own, Akash pressed a kiss on her knuckles.

 

“I must have done some really good deeds to be blessed with you. I love you Payal.”

“I love you too.”

 

*****

 

It was evident to Arnav what was going on between his brother and sister in law. It made him happy to know that despite everything, Payal and Akash were going to be okay. Realising that there was no need for him to be around anymore, Arnav smiled and got to his feet and made his way up to his room. As he was climbing the stairs, a call from a number he didn’t recognise came in.

 

“Hello?”

“Hi Arnav.”

 

Pausing, Arnav furrowed his eyebrows as he tried to work out who was calling.

 

“Who’s this?”

“It’s Rohan.”

 

Feeling all his blood drain out of his body, Arnav took the stairs three at a time up to his room.

 

“Rohan? Why are you…”

“I just thought I’d call to let you know that it would be ideal if you stayed as far away from Khushi as you possibly could.”

“Excuse me? I don’t think you’ve noticed but I haven’t been anywhere around her, nor have I been trying to contact her.”

“I know, but I just thought I’d call to let you know any way. Khushi’s moved on and she doesn’t need you to try and force your way back into her life.”

“I really don’t understand why you’re calling me. I accepted that and I’ve backed off.”

“Again, I just wanted to reiterate. Besides, me and Khushi have now consummated our relationship so… We really don’t need you to try and come between us.”

 

Now Arnav really did go completely cold. Khushi and Rohan… She’d… How could she? So soon after as well.

 

“You… You what?”

“We took our relationship to the next level and in a couple of days we’re going to be married. So it would be better and easier for everyone if you just stayed away.”

 

With that, Rohan disconnected the call, feeling super smug with himself. Arnav on the other hand stood in the middle of his room, staring at his phone, feeling completely drained.

She… How?

Throwing his phone down onto his bed, he left his room and went to the room with the bar. He needed a drink.

 

*****

 

After the day Rohan had tried to come close to Khushi, he managed to keep himself at bay. And once he had calmed down, he did go and apologise to Khushi for his behaviour.
Realising that there was no point holding onto something like that, Khushi accepted Rohan’s apology and normality resumed between them.

There had been no word from Arnav and Khushi was glad. She knew she had to move on, and the more she avoided him, the better it would be for her. There were only a couple of days until the wedding and things were going well until…

 

“We have to go to this event Khushi.”

 

An invitation had arrived for Khushi. It was an invite to AR’s annual fashion show where they would be releasing their latest line.

 

“I can’t go! There’s so much to be done before the wedding and…”

“I know, but this is a big deal, you have to go.”

“There’s nothing to say that my attendance is a must.”

“There isn’t, but the media will all be waiting on you. It’s not a known fact that you and Arnav were business partners, and it’s a known fact that the businesses have been completely separated again. If you don’t go, it will give the media all the more reason to talk rubbish about you and Khushiyan. If you don’t go, people really will believe that there’s bad blood between Khushiyan and AR and that could have a negative impact on your business.”

 

Thinking about the point that Rohan was making, Khushi knew he was correct. But going to this event would mean that she would have to see Arnav, would have to interact with him otherwise the press would have a field day.

 

“I don’t know…”

“You just have to make a short appearance and then you can leave. I’ll be by you the whole time.”

 

After much deliberation and great reluctance, Khushi agreed to attend the event, but she made it clear that she would only stay for the minimum amount of time.

 

*****

 

Checking her dress in the mirror one last time, Khushi picked up her clutch bag and then left her bedroom. She had been stressing about the event and how things would go and now the moment was here.

Rohan was waiting for her by the front door, ready in a black suit and wearing a dark green tie to match her dress.

Here goes nothing.

 

*****

 

Upon arrival at the large venue where the fashion show was being held, Khushi was met by Aman who was responsible for making sure that everyone who was attending were invited.

 

“Ah Miss Gupta, it’s a pleasure to see you again!”

“Hi Aman. How are you?”

“I’ve been well, yourself ma’am?”

“I’ve also been very well thanks.”

 

After the pleasantries were over, Aman pointed out which suits had been reserved for herself and Rohan.

 

“You’re important to AR so Mr Raizada wanted to make sure you guys had good seats. You had seats on the front row, beside Mr Akash and his wife.”

 

Nodding, Khushi led Rohan over to where they were to be sat. A lot of people had already taken their seats and Khushi could already see Payal and Akash getting settled.

As they made their way towards their seats, Khushi kept an eye out for Arnav, but he was nowhere to be seen. As they got closer to their seats, Payal noticed them and waved them over.

Hugging Khushi, Payal said hi to Rohan before sitting down again.

Taking her own seat, Khushi sat down and made herself comfortable with Rohan sat to her right and Payal to her left.
Leaning over to Payal, Khushi whispered to her.

 

“Where’s Arnav?”

“He’s backstage preparing to open the show.”

“How has he been?”

“He’s been okay I guess, a little quiet, hadn’t been talking to anyone much at home, but then I guess that isn’t anything really new.”

 

This made Khushi feel a little better. Maybe Arnav was coming to terms with what had happened and he was starting to accept that they needed to move on and go forward with their lives separately.

As the light dims, those who were standing rushed to their seats and settled down as they waited for the show to start. Momentarily, the whole venue was completely black but then a bright spot light came on, revealing Arnav in the middle of the stage.

Taking him in, Khushi realised he wasn’t okay or that he hadn’t been okay. His eyes looked tired with dark circles around them. His beard not as neat as he usually kept it and his hair slightly out of control.

 

“Welcome to the annual AR fashion show! Thank you to everyone for joining us tonight. Without further ado, let’s get into the show.”

 

All the lights went down again but moments after, coloured lights came on, followed by a large light, lighting up the runway. Arnav had moved to the end of the runway, a mic in his hand.

 

The music kicked in and he first models began to descend the runway. Khushi’s eyes remained locked on Arnav, as did many others. The beat of the song dropped and Arnav started to sing.

 

“Mera dil jis dil pe fida hai, ek bewafaa hai…”

 

Eyes wide, Khushi realised what he was doing here. He was publicly calling her out without actually calling her out. Turning to Payal, Khushi realised that Payal too was looking at her with wide eyes.

 

“Did you…”

 

Shaking her head, Payal placed her hand on Khushi’s and gave it a light squeeze.

 

Shit.

 

“Tu bewafaa…”

 

Is that what he thought of her? That she was unfaithful? A cheat? Turning to Rohan, she could understand why he’d have such a bad opinion of her, she couldn’t blame him.

Turning her attention back to Arnav, she saw him staring intently at her while he carried on singing. Rohan places his had on Khushi’s knee.

During the musical breaks where Arnav wasn’t singing, the models kept coming out, showcasing ARs latest collection. But Khushi couldn’t take any of it in, her eyes were fixed on Arnav.

 

“Koi sheesha agar toote, bari avaaz hoti hai, magar dil toot jaane ki, saada koi nehin sunta.”

 

Looking down, what Khushi had already known, made itself more prominent in her mind. She was hurting him. She was hurting him so so much. She was hurting too, but maybe she was hurting Arnav far more. Maybe he was feeling it far more than she was.
Rohan’s hand on Khushi’s knee tightened and she turned her attention back to him.

 

“I’m going to kill that bastard.”

“No Rohan, leave him.”

“But he’s trying to publicly defame you.”

“He’s hurting. No one knew about us so no one knows he’s aiming anything at me. Please just leave him.”

 

Shaking his head, both Rohan and Khushi turned their attention back to Arnav. He wasn’t done yet.

 

“Use bhi neend naa aaye, woh bhi jage tamam raat, woh bhi kisike pyar main tadpe khuda kare.”

“Usne mujhko tadpaye hai, main bhi usko tadpaunga.”

 

Oh no, oh no no no. Khushi was well aware of which song this was. Aware of the lyrics and what they meant.

 

“Woh sar jhukaye baite hai, dekho gairo ki baaho main.”

 

Turning to her side, she realised just how fitting his words were. Here she was, pretty much in Rohan’s arms when she and Rohan and Arnav knew she was still very much in love with Arnav.

 

“Let’s go.”

 

Rohan got to his feet and took Khushi’s hand. He was done. Khushi hesitated for a moment but was yanked to her feet by Rohan. Turning to Payal, she saw Payal had a shocked expression on her face. A combined result of what Arnav had done and what she’d just witnessed between Khushi and Rohan. Looking over her shoulder, Khushi watched as Arnav ended the song, his eyes still fixed on her.

As the song came to a close, everyone got to their feet, clapping and stamping. Arnav had brought the house down.

The fashion show was a hit, but not because of the designs that had been displayed, but because of the soul tugging performance given by Arnav. While everyone was still distracted, Rohan pulled Khushi out of the venue and into the car park.

 

“Rohan…”

“We’re getting married tomorrow evening.”

“Tomorrow?”

“We were meant to marry in three days time, I’ve decided enough is enough. I’m done waiting. We’re getting married tomorrow. Everyone is ready any way, I can organise for it to be moved.”

“But…”

“I’m sick of that obsessed lover of yours. The moment he realises you’re unavailable, the better. So we’re getting married tomorrow. That’s it.”

 

Unable to think of anything to say, Khushi’s accepted defeat and nodded. Arnav had been acting slightly obsessive. Maybe getting married and getting all this over with would help sort things.

Tears pricked in Khushi’s eyes as she realised just what was happening.

She was going to get married. Tomorrow. To a man who wasn’t Arnav…

 

Jalebi ~ Part 34

It was decided while they were still in the UK that upon arriving back in India, they would have an engagement party. Initially Khushi had been against the idea, claiming she didn’t see what was the need. But Rohan insisted that it was something that he wanted.

Not wanting to argue, Khushi agreed to the idea of having an engagement party.

Still feeling slightly heavyhearted, Khushi went ahead with the engagement party prep with as much enthusiasm that she could muster. It helped that her parents had come back to India with them. If they hadn’t had come, Khushi was certain that all this would be even harder to deal with.

Almost every single day, Garima asked Khushi if she was sure she was making the right decision, and almost every day Khushi gave the same answer.

 

“I am happy with the choice that I have made.”

 

In Khushi’s heart, she knew that she was making the wrong choice. She knew this wasn’t the choice that was going to make her happy, but at the same time, she knew she couldn’t go back. She couldn’t just walk away from Rohan now, not after everything he had done for her.

Sometimes in life, one has to make sacrifices. This was the sacrifice of Khushi’s life. She was sacrificing her love, her Arnav, for Rohan’s happiness…

 

*****

 

The engagement party was in full swing. Rohan and Khushi has decided on hosting their party at a restaurant. It wasn’t a big event, nor had they invited a lot of people, so they were able to host their party in a restaurant.

Greeting their guests with a smile of their faces, they looked the couple. The happy couple. The one everyone had always know would eventually end up together. They were that couple.

As they stood their greeting their friends and family, Rohan slipped his arm around Khushi’s waist and pulled her close to himself.

 

“Rohan…”

“Sh. Smile and keep greeting people.”

“Can you let go of me?”

“Just keep smiling.”

 

Letting out a sigh, Khushi turned her attention back to their guests and smiled and greeted them as they came to talk to her and Rohan. She hated this. Every moment of it.

Looking around the restaurant, Khushi could see there were still a couple of empty seats, meaning that she still had to stand with Rohan, waiting near the door.

 

“Khushi!”

 

Rushing over to her, Payal entered and took Khushi into her arms. Rohan slipped his arm away and walked away, giving Khushi and Payal some space.

 

“You made it!”

“Of course I would! I wouldn’t miss your engagement party for the world.”

 

Looking over Payal’s shoulder, Khushi expected Akash to walk in at any moment, but he didn’t.

 

“Jijaji not with you?”

“No, he didn’t want to come.”

“Fair enough.”

 

Payal threw her arms around Khushi once more and pulled her close to herself.

 

“How have you been?”

“I’ve been okay.”

“No, Khushi, honestly, how have you been?”

 

Pulling away, Khushi looked down at her beautiful light pink lengha and sighed. She should have been super happy today, after all, all these people were gathered to celebrate her engagement, but she wasn’t happy. She had a heavy heart and she didn’t know what to do about it.

 

“I’m okay, considering…”

“Why are you doing this Khushi? Before, I understood. Now? It doesn’t make sense to me.”

“I can’t just leave Rohan now. Not after he accepted me.”

“I get that but bhai… Khushi he’s a wreck. He’s not drinking this time, which is such a relief, but he’s still broken and struggling. If anything, a way, he’s worse this time because he knows what the score is with you.”

 

Looking to Payal, Khushi felt a huge tug at her heart hearing this about Arnav.

 

“He’ll be okay as time goes on.”

 

It was a mare whisper. She couldn’t bring herself to say it out loud because she was worried everyone around her would be able to detect that she knew she was lying.
Would Arnav be okay? Would she ever be okay? Would they both be able to move in from this and learn to accept their circumstances?

 

“He really, really loves you Khushi.”

“I really loved him too jiji. But just because you love someone doesn’t mean that you should be with them.”

 

Opening up her clutch bag, Khushi fishes around a little before pulling out the ring box that Arnav had given her. Looking at the soft box one last time, Khushi handed it over to Payal.

 

“Tell him it’s the most beautiful ring I’ve ever seen. And I love it. But it’s not mine and I can’t keep it. Please also tell him that I’m really sorry.”

 

It pained Payal to take the ring back and it was evident that it was painful for Khushi to be giving it back. But regardless, she knew she couldn’t keep it.

 

“There’s still time, please reconsider. Please Khushi. I know this isn’t the right thing for you to do.”

“It’s over jiji. There’s nothing left to reconsider.”

 

*****

 

Once all the guests had arrived and were seated, Rohan got to his feet and gave a little speech, thanking everyone for joining them and hoping that everyone would leave them kind wishes for their upcoming marriage.

 

“I know a lot of people have been asking us about dates and we haven’t said anything until now. However we have decided on getting married in exactly a months time from now.”

 

There was a gasp from the guests before they started clapping.
This was news for Khushi. She didn’t know anything about dates for the wedding, nor had she realised that they would be getting married so soon. She didn’t appreciate being thrown into the deep end in this manner.

Payal who was sat beside Khushi, gave Khushi a little nudge, her eyebrow raised.

 

“You’re getting married in a month? Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I didn’t know!”

 

Slightly taken aback by Khushi’s response, Payal looked at her sister with concern. She wasn’t sure if this was a good thing or if things were going to end up well. I’m her bones, something just didn’t feel right.

 

*****

 

A quiet little knock on his door brought Arnav out of his thoughts. Looking up, he saw Akash at his door.

 

“Hi bhai.”

“What do you want Akash?”

“Can I come in?”

 

Thinking about it for a moment, Arnav finally nodded and Akash walked in.

 

“You didn’t go to Khushi’s engagement party with Payal?”

“No. I didn’t feel right. And I doubt Khushi would have wanted me there.”

“True, she probably wouldn’t have. But who knows with her.”

“Bhai are you… Are you okay?”

“I’m alright, you?”

 

Nodding, Akash looked around awkwardly before finally taking a seat on the recliner.

 

“I feel like we haven’t really spoken properly in quite a long time.”

“It’s because we haven’t.”

“I know. And I know it’s my fault.”

“Leave it Akash. It’s not worth talking about.”

“No bhai, we do. We need to talk about it.”

 

Sighing, Arnav took a seat on his bed, facing Akash. He didn’t really want to talk to Akash about anything, but he knew that if they wanted to restore peace, then he needed to talk to him.

 

“Bhai, I fucked up. Big time. I made a mess of so much…”

“We’ve been through all that before.”

“I know… I just… I wanted to say I’m really sorry. I don’t know what came over me. I got jealous and I… I actually like a complete arse. I can’t even begin to explain what was going through my head because I don’t know myself. I feel like I went momentarily insane.”

“It’s okay. I mean, it’s not okay, but what’s happened has happened. We’ll work through it. We’re brothers at the end of the day.”

 

Akash felt like a huge weight had been lifted off of his chest. Once he’d actually had the time to think about everything, he realised how messed up it was of him to act the way he did.

 

“I really am sorry bhai. I…”

“It’s okay. I get it. You cared for Khushi for a long time and to see her with me. But you should’ve just told me how you felt. And about the business, you should have just told me you wanted more responsibility. You know I would’ve given it to you, I would’ve made you my co-CEO if that’s what you wanted.”

“I know, I know. Like I said, I honestly don’t know what came over me. I acted like a child. I’m so embarrassed that I did what I did.”

 

It was evident to Arnav that Akash really was repenting, that he really did feel bad about what he had done. But like he had said, they were brothers at the end of the day. And Arnav was the older brother. It was his duty to help and guide Akash.

 

“So we good?”

“We good. But Akash, don’t get me wrong, I do need some time. Things can’t just snap back to the way they were.”

“I understand and I didn’t expect us to be like how we were before. But it’s important to me to know that at least you don’t hate me.”

“Again, you’re my brother.”

 

Getting off the recliner, Akash went over to Arnav and hugged him. Usually he wouldn’t dare, because he knew how much Arnav hated hugs, but he had to today. And to his delight, Arnav hugged him back.
Breaking the hug, Akash sat beside Arnav.

 

“So bhai, what’s the plan? How are you winning Khushi back?”

“There is no plan. Me and her are over.”

“But bhai, you love each other.”

“There’s nothing I can do. She’s made her decision and that’s that.”

“I can’t believe… I’ve ruined everything! Please let me go speak to her. I’ll beg her! She can’t just walk away like this.”

“I appreciate your efforts Akash. But what’s done is done. It’s over.”

 

Arnav could tell that this revelation was disturbing Akash beyond compare. He could tell that he was genuinely stressed out.

 

“It can’t be over. You both love each other so much! Please let me speak to her. I won’t be able to live with myself, knowing that I caused this.”

“It’s hard Akash but we’ll all learn to come to terms with this. I’ve tried my best but if she isn’t willing to take me back even after everything I’ve done for her, then there’s nothing more for us to do.”

 

Opening his mouth to say something else, Akash couldn’t believe what was going on. He’d ruined his brothers life! He’d never intended on this happening. He had been jealous of Arnav’s success but this… This was beyond anything he had anticipated. He hadn’t expected Arnav to fall so desperately in love…
He couldn’t allow this. He needed to do something.

 

*****

 

As the engagement party rolled to a close, most of the guests had finished their dinner and had already started to leave. Only immediate family and close friends remained.

 

“Did you have a good dinner jiji?”

“I did and I really enjoyed myself this evening. Rohan’s really nice and he seems to care for you.”

 

Smiling, Khushi nodded. She knew Rohan cared for her, but at the end of the day, her feelings for Rohan would never compare to the way she felt about Arnav. But it was too late to think about Arnav now. That was over.

Pulling herself out of her thoughts regarding Arnav, Khushi turned her attention back to Payal and mentally kicked herself for not asking about Akash earlier.

 

“Is everything okay between you and Jijaji?”

 

Khushi watched as Payal’s expression dropped as she sighed.

 

“He… I don’t know Khushi. I know he’s sorry for what he did but… I just can’t look at him the same way after knowing he did that to you…”

“Jiji…”

 

Letting out a sigh, Khushi thought about what we she should say. She couldn’t let there be problems between Payal and Akash because of her.

 

“I know it sucks, but jiji, you can’t let this affect your marriage. What’s happened has happened and you just have learn to move on from it.”

“But Khushi…”

“What’s happened has happened. I’m happy jiji. I have no complaints. I have my business back and I’m getting married, I’m happy, I promise.”

 

Both Payal and Khushi knew that Khushi was lying, but they acted as though it was the truth. There was no point trying to call Khushi out on it.

Crossing her fingers and toes, Payal prayed that her little sister find happiness after marriage, but she knew, that truly, Khushi wasn’t happy and that this wasn’t what she wanted. But there was nothing she could do. Prayers was all she had for Khushi.

Jalebi ~ Part 33

A little while Arnav had left, there was a light knock on Khushi’s door.

 

“Not now Rohan, please.”

 

Quietly, the door opened and Rohan walked into the room and sat beside Khushi on the bed.

 

“Are you okay?”

“Please just let me be for a while.”

“I can only imagine how hard this is for you. I’m sorry, that your hurting so much.”

 

Turning away from Rohan, Khushi opened the ring box once more time, looking at it as she cried harder. Looking over her shoulder, Rohan saw the ring.

 

“Did he…”

 

Nodding, Khushi turned to face Rohan.

 

“I think he was going to propose to me with it.”

“You need to give it back.”

 

Rohan was firm with what he was saying.

 

“I wasn’t going to keep it but…”

“You need to give it back. Either he can get his money back for it or he can give it to someone else. But you can’t keep it.”

 

The way Rohan was speaking to her, angered her. What did he think of her? That she was going to keep it? And how could he even suggest that Arnav would give this very ring to someone else? It was clear that this ring was one that he had picked especially for her, it had her name written all over it.

 

“I need you to leave and give me some time.”

“Khushi…”

“Just go Rohan!”

 

Letting out a loud, exaggerated sigh, Rohan got off the bed and left Khushi’s room. Just before leaving, he turned to her one last time.

 

“You need to accept that we’re getting married. The sooner you accept it and learn to deal with it, the less memories of him will affect you.”

 

Shutting the door behind him loudly, Khushi turned to the door, wanting to say something back to him. How dare he? Khushi felt so angry. Angry at the circumstances that she was in and angry at Rohan being such a jerk at a time like this. How she wished she could just turn back time so she never came back to India in the first place.

 

*****

 

When Arnav got home, he was glad to find that everyone had gone out. But as he made his way up to his room, he saw Payal sat in her room, lost in her own world. Knocking on her door, he waited until she acknowledged him.

 

“Bhai? Is everything okay? Come in.”

 

Walking into Payal’s room, she got to her feet and gestured for him to take a seat on the sofa. Taking in his face, it was evident that he wasn’t okay.

 

“What happened?”

“She chose him over me.”

“She what?”

 

Payal knew what had been going on. She knew about Khushi and Rohan and about how Arnav had won the businesses back and given her her business back. But Payal had thought that when all of that got sorted, even if not immediately, at some point Khushi and Arnav would get back together.

 

“Last night… You know I was with her. I thought things would be okay between us. But now, today, she’s telling me she chooses him over me and that despite everything, she wants to marry him.”

“But… She loves you? Surely…”

“That’s what I thought. I thought because she loved me, if I made things right, she’d come back to me. But evidently not.”

“Would you like me to speak to her. To see what she’s thinking and why she’s reacting like this?”

 

Shaking his head, Arnav looked Payal in the eye as he spoke.

 

“No. Don’t bother. She’s not worth it. Screw it and screw her. She’s made her bed and now she can lie in it. I’m done with her and her games.”

“But bhai…”

“I don’t want to speak about her any more. Forget about it Payal.”

 

Knowing that the conversation was over, Payal looked down at her hands. She couldn’t understand why Khushi would do this. She knew that Khushi loved Arnav a lot. And Arnav was everything she wanted. So why…

 

“Payal can I say something to you?”

 

This brought Payal out of her thoughts as she turned her attention back on Arnav.

 

“Of course. There’s no need to ask.”

 

Putting his hands in his lap, Arnav looked up at Payal before looking away again, feeling uncomfortable.

 

“I just… I wanted to apologise.”

“For what bhai?”

“For taking the businesses back from Akash.”

“Why are you apologising for that? He wrongfully took Khushi’s business from her and you did what you needed to do to get it back for her. You didn’t do anything wrong. If anything, I should apologise on his behalf. I still don’t understand why he’d do that to Khushi. Why he’d do that to you!”

 

Arnav had thought about maybe telling Payal the truth. Telling her what he had heard Akash say to Khushi that day, but he decided against it. He knew Payal and Akash’s relationship was already under a lot of strain, he didn’t want to add to that.

 

“You don’t need to apologise for him. He’s a grown man and should’ve known better. You aren’t responsible for his actions.”

 

Shrugging, Payal knew Arnav had a point. She didn’t know he was planning anything like this and even if she did, she didn’t think that her views would have made a difference to him.

 

“How has he been doing?”

“He’s been okay. I thought he would have been angry or under a lot of strain, but he’s not. If anything he seems a lot more free. So I guess it doesn’t bother him that you’ve taken everything back. I think he had realised that he was out of his depth and whatever his plan was, he must have realised it wasn’t going to work.”

 

Nodding, Arnav looked at his watch and then got to his feet.

 

“Right, I’m going to be off to my room. I need to look through some files and make sure that everything’s in order again.”

“Are you going to be okay bhai, regarding…”

“I just need some time to process and accept what’s happened, but I think I’ll be okay.”

“If you’d like to talk, or if you need anything, I’ll be right here.”

“Thanks Payal. I appreciate it, I really do.”

 

Once Arnav left Payal’s room, she picked her phone up and called Khushi. But her Khushi’s phone was unreachable. Sighing, Payal decided to leave Khushi a message, asking her to call back as soon as she was able to.

 

*****

 

As the days slipped by, Rohan saw less and less of Khushi. He had thought that once she got over the fact that her and Arnav were over, she’d started accepting it better and that she would start trying to move forward with him. But if anything, he found she was going backwards, speaking to him less and less.

It was abundantly clear that Khushi was very much in love with Arnav and that she wasn’t ready to let him go. But Rohan was beginning to lose patience. He knew when he got into this relationship that he would be second fiddle, but he’d also through that Khushi would realise how much he cared for her and would start trying to move on. But it just wasn’t happening.

On a number of occasions, Rohan had seen Khushi in her room, wearing the ring that Arnav had given her and staring at it.

So far Rohan had managed to keep his cool, to not get mad at her, but it was getting increasingly harder as time went on. On one particular evening, Rohan decided that enough was enough.

Putting dinner together for them, he knew what he needed to do in order to make headway with the situation in hand.

 

*****

 

“This was some really good food, thank you.”

“It was my pleasure Khushi.”

 

Putting his fork down, Rohan realised that now was the time to say what he had been thinking.

 

“Khushi… I was thinking maybe… I think we should go back to England.”

 

Putting her own fork down, Khushi looked up at Rohan. At the back of her mind she knew that this was coming, it made sense why Rohan wanted to go back.

 

“Okay.”

 

Khushi’s response threw Rohan a bit. He hadn’t expected Khushi to agree so easily to his request. He had thought that she would argue and would want to stay here. But apparently not.

 

“I was going to book myself a ticket for London any way. I need to go and sort things at Khushiyan.”

“So when do you think we should leave?”

“Whenever you’re ready.”

 

Picking up her plate, Khushi made her way over to the sink to wash up. She didn’t really need to go to London to sort out her business. But she had realised that if she wanted to get over Arnav, then the more distance there was between them, the better it would be. Plus she was missing her parents a lot. She needed to be with them right now.

 

*****

 

A week had passed since Khushi and Rohan had decided that they were going to go back to London and now they were finally back. Between the time she had made the decision and now, Khushi had regretted her decision at least 50 times. She knew that the moment she saw her parents, they would grill her once more about all things related to Arnav and she wasn’t ready for that.

On the other hand, Arnav was completely shattered when he learnt that Khushi was leaving for London once more. He had tried to get in contact with her, but his efforts were futile and she had blocked his number.

He was struggling to cope, but didn’t seek reassurance in alcohol this time for the sake of his Nani. But he knew he needed to do something in order to help deal with the dull ache in his heart.

Payal had observed her brother in law and she couldn’t help but feel broken for him. His momentary happiness that had come to him was gone again. He walked around the house like someone haunted. She had tried to contact Khushi, but when she finally got through to her, she found out that Khushi was leaving again. Payal wasn’t impressed. She couldn’t understand why Khushi was being like this.

And then there was Akash. He wasn’t happy with how things had turned out, about the fact that he no longer owned the business, but at the same time there was a new found peace in him. He had come to terms with what had happened and he also realised that he was a mess. Akash knew that he had made a royal mess for his brother, and he knew that he needed to do something to make it up to him, but at the moment, his efforts were fruitless as Arnav didn’t want to have anything to do with him…

 

*****

 

“I really don’t understand what’s going on Khushi. It doesn’t make any sense to me.”

 

Rolling her eyes, Khushi put the kettle on before coming to sit down opposite her parents at their kitchen table.

She and Rohan had been back in the U.K. for just over 4 hours and she already knew coming back here was the worst idea. Last time she was here, she had gotten engaged to Rohan so suddenly, her parents hadn’t really had time to process things and so they couldn’t say much before she left. But this time, they had time to think about the matter and so were full of questions.

 

“Amma, Babuji, please. I really don’t want to talk about it.”

“You may not want to talk about it Khushi, but you have to. What on earth are you playing at? You didn’t explain to us whey you made this decision when you left and you still haven’t explained to us. And Rohan won’t say anything either.”

 

Wishing that she had invited Rohan back to her house, Khushi sighed as she got back up to make the teas.

Looking between each other, Shashi and Garima knew that there was something wrong. Getting to her feet, Garima walked over to where Khushi was and gestured for her husband to leave.

 

“Khushi, please, tell me. What happened. We know what happened between you and Arnav regarding the business, we understand that. But all this with Rohan. Khushi…”

 

“Amma please. If you know and understand what happened between me and Arnav, then why is it so hard to accept me and Rohan.”

“It’s hard to accept because your father and I both know how much you cared for Arnav. We know things went horribly wrong, but we don’t understand why you’d make such a big decision regarding Rohan.”

“You and papa wanted me to marry Rohan and I’m doing that! Why can’t you just…”

“No we can’t accept it Khushi! Because we know you don’t want to marry Rohan.”

“Well I do now.”

 

Turning away from her mother, Khushi knew that it was going to be hard to convince her parents that this was the right decision. Coming back towards her daughter, Garima placed a hand on Khushi’s shoulder.

 

“Dekho Khushi, I can kind of understand why you are doing this, but that doesn’t mean I agree. Rethink what you are doing, you’re making choices for what’s going to happen to the lives of three people, not just yourself.”

“Mama please. I’ve made my decision. And my decision is Rohan. The sooner everyone accepts this, the better.”

“We just want your happiness. I won’t say anything more on the topic, but what I will say is that, you need to think about this carefully and clearly with a fresh mind. Will you be happy with Rohan? Can you see yourself living your whole life with him? Maybe even starting a family with him one day. If your answer to any of these is no, then don’t go ahead with this.”

 

Garima placed a hand in her daughters shoulder and made her turn around.

 

“Please Khushi.”

“Okay. I will think about it.”

 

Leaving the kitchen, Garima walked away, hoping that her daughter would make the right decision. Khushi watched her mother walk away and couldn’t help but think about everything her mother had said. She had taken it all, and she had already thought about everything her mother had mentioned before. But she knew she couldn’t go back now. She couldn’t betray Rohan’s trust and go back to Arnav. She just couldn’t.

Jalebi ~ Part 30

As the weeks went on, Akash carried on struggling with the businesses. He had thought that as time went on, it would get easier, but it wasn’t. The files were piling up and he found it harder and harder to get through the workload. Everyone expected him to have the answers, to know what to do, but he didn’t know! It was too much! And Arnav had completely washed his hands on the businesses. He couldn’t deal with it any more…

 

*****

 

Initially Rohan had gone for a couple of days, but he extended his trip and so Khushi had been alone at home. She hasn’t spoken to Arnav since that day when she’d invited him over to her house, but she had wanted to reach out to him. But it didn’t feel right. He still wanted to be in a relationship with her but she was now committed to someone else. It felt wrong to reach out to him, maybe give him hope when she knew that there was no hope. Not any more.

 

*****

 

“Yes Aman, perfect! Let’s see if he finally breaks this time. I think he will. He’s been struggling since the beginning and the last couple of days… Well done Aman, you’ve done me proud brother. If our plan works, you can be guaranteed a promotion.”

 

Ending the call, Arnav put his phone down and grinned to himself. If Akash thought that he was smart, then he underestimated his brother. Did Akash really think that Arnav was going to let him win? That he was going to let him sail smoothly?

 

Akash had been struggling from the beginning, Arnav took advantage of that. He got Aman to manipulate Akash’s workload to overwhelm him. Arnav hoped that Akash would break, that he would ask Arnav to take the businesses back. So far Akash had been resilient, but Arnav was certain that he would break, and he could tell his breaking point was near.

 

*****

 

“Aman, where is that god damn file? I have a major meeting with investors and I haven’t got the file!”

“I checked it for you and I gave it back to you tomorrow. You’ve probably put it into your briefcase sir.”

“I have checked everywhere a million times! I don’t have it. You must still have.”

 

Aman shook his head, trying to suppress his smile. He knew exactly where the papers were, but he wasn’t about to tell Akash. He could tell Akash was very stressed about the meeting with the investors and if they wanted him to break, today was the best day to do it.

 

“Aman, please go and check again. If I don’t have that file then we’re going to be in big trouble.”

“Yes sir.”

 

Exiting the room, Aman dialled Arnav’s number, he was sure it was almost show time.

 

*****

 

There was ten minutes to go, and Aman hadn’t returned with the file. Akash felt like pulling his hair out. If he didn’t have the file, then they would lose out on a major investment.

With just five minutes to go, Akash was pacing the office, sweating profusely.

Knocking on the door, Arnav walked straight in.

 

“Bhai, what are you doing here?”

“I just came to see how you were doing. Big day today. This meeting has been booked for over three months. I just wanted to check that you were okay.”

“I can’t do it. Aman has lost the file and I don’t have all the information. Please… Please bhai, you go in and speak to them. You’ve been preparing for this for almost a year, you know all the details from top to bottom.”

“I’d love to. But this meeting can’t be taken on by anyone other than the owner of the business and that’s you.”

“But I can’t do this meeting! I’m not prepared! If I go in there, we will lose a million dollar investment guaranteed. And we need this investment!”

 

Sitting down opposite Akash, Arnav put his feet up on the desk and smiled.

 

“If you can’t do it, quit.”

“Wh… What?”

“You heard me. If you can’t do this simple meeting, then quit. Hand me everything back and I might even be gracious as to let you keep your old job.”

 

Looking at his cousin and then looking at the clock, Akash realised that he was now late for the meeting. Either he had to get himself to that meeting pronto and make himself look like a fool, or he could have a clean shave and put it all back on Arnav.

It was a hard decision for Akash. He had been planning this takeover for the longest time, and to now even think about giving everything back.

 

“Tick tock Akash.”

 

Looking between the files of papers that he needed to get through and the clock, Akash realised he was way out of his depth. He couldn’t manage it all. The longer he left it , the further the businesses would sink. There was no use being the owner of a sinking business, he’d make less money than he was when he was working alongside Arnav.

 

“Come on, decide. The investors are waiting.”

“Okay! Fine! I’ll hand the businesses back over. Please just go to the meeting.”

“Nuh uh, I’m not going anywhere until all paperwork is signed back over. Aman!”

 

Walking into the office, Aman handed Arnav a file. Opening it up, Arnav had a quick skim of the papers, making sure all his clauses were in place and everything was just as it was meant to be. Once he was satisfied, he put his signature on the papers and then handed it all over to Akash who looked wary.

 

“Don’t worry, there’s no foul play. These papers just state that you are giving back what is rightfully mine and you are handing back rights for me to have ultimate power to with anything off.”

 

Passing the file across the table, Arnav handed Akash the pen and all. Looking completely defeated, Akash looked between his cousin and the papers. Reading through them thoroughly, Akash finally signed the papers grudgingly. As soon as it was done, Arnav snatched back the papers and handed them over to Aman to have filed immediately.

Getting to his feet, Arnav walked round to Akash side of the table.

 

“Right. I think it’s time for you to get off my chair. I have businesses to get back into order.”

 

Getting to his feet, Akash packed up his things as Arnav took his seat and rearranged his desk.

 

“Meeting…”

“If you had stayed on top of things, you would have known that that meeting was rescheduled and it isn’t until next week.”

 

If Akash had looked defeated before, he was now completely shattered. He’d been played.

 

*****

 

A rapid knock on the door brought Khushi to her senses. Looking up at the clock she saw it was almost 8pm. Who would be coming at this time of evening?

Grabbing her dupatta, she made her way over to the door and opened it.

 

“Surprise!”

“Arnav…”

 

Smiling, Arnav showed Khushi the food and the champagne that he had brought with himself as he entered her apartment.

 

“Arnav you can’t be here…”

“I think I can. We need to celebrate.”

“Celebrate what?”

 

Putting the food down, Arnav handed Khushi a file over. Taking it, she opened it up warily. The moment she saw “Khushiyan” at the top of the papers, she shut the file again, handing it back over to Arnav.

 

“I can’t look at this.”

“Khushi, look at it.”

 

Shaking her head, Khushi pushed the papers away but Arnav took her hands in his own.

 

“Look at them.”

 

Taking the papers, Khushi took a deep breath before opening the file again.

 

*I, Arnav Singh Raizada, hereby sign all rights of ownership to Miss Khushi Kumari Gupta…*

 

Arnav watched expression as she read the whole document. Tears welled up in her eyes. Once she read through all the papers, she looked up to Arnav.

 

“You…”

“I told you I would sort it.”

“I can’t believe…”

“Sign the papers and we can have them filed. Aman’s waiting outside so he can get them to the courthouse.”

“But they’re closed now…”

“Arnav Singh Raizada has connections. We can get them filed tonight and by tomorrow afternoon, everything will be back to how it should be.”

 

Wiping away her tears, Khushi quickly checked everything over once more and then signed the papers and handed them back to Arnav. Getting up, he went over to the door and handed Aman the papers and told him to get it all sorted as soon as possible.

When Arnav returned, he found Khushi coming back from the kitchen, two champagne flutes in her hand. Putting them down, she gestured to Arnav to open the bottle of champagne.

 

“No, you open it.”

“No you should, after all you are responsible for sorting it all.”

 

They went back and forth but ultimately Khushi won and Arnav proceeded to open the bottle. The poured then both a glass and raised his glass for a toast and Khushi did the same.

 

“To the successful futures of AR and Khushiyan. Whether together or apart, may they always prosper.”

 

Clinking their glasses together, Khushi took a little sip before putting her glass back down.

 

“I still can’t believe… Khushiyan…”

“I promised you I would sort it. I couldn’t let you down.”

 

Arnav put his glass down as Khushi shuffled closer to her. She placed her hand on his cheek, letting her fingers graze over his slightly unkept beard.

 

“Thank you.”

 

She placed a gentle kiss on his cheek, letting her lips linger, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath her lips.

As she began to pull away, Arnav grabbed hold of her hand, keeping her close to himself.

As they looked into each other’s eyes, their need and desire for each other was evident. Arnav’s darkening hooded eyes met Khushi’s soft hazel ones as he cupped her face, brushing his lips against hers.

 

“I love you Khushi… Come back to me.”

“I… I love you too…”

 

All thoughts of the businesses and the fact that this was no longer appropriate, were completely forgotten about as their lips met for the first time in a long time. Initially, it was a brief meeting of the lips, gentle, light… But then Arnav pressed his against hers with more force, pulling her further into himself as he kissed her like a man starved. Khushi reciprocated with the same amount of intensity and heat as her hand trailed down from his face down to his neck.

Pushing her back, Arnav lay Khushi back against the sofa as his hand moved from her face to her neck and then further down to her breast. Her kameez was a light cotton one and so he could feel the little bump of where her bra was. He moved his hand, continuing over her breast until he felt one of her erect nipples. Brushing at it, Khushi felt herself go a little breathless and she hooked her leg onto his.

Her hands found their way to his tie and she pulled it off before proceeding to take the buttons of his shirt off. Arnav broke the kiss and moved off of Khushi, who groaned in protest.

He got up, and then lifted Khushi into his arms. Khushi wrapped her arms around his neck, and placed little kisses on his exposed chest. Walking into the bedroom, Arnav placed Khushi down on the centre of the bed and sat beside her on his knees. Khushi too got onto her knees and moved towards him, taking off the rest of his shirt buttons and then sliding his jacket and his shirt off. Once his shirt was off, she moved towards him once more, pressing her lips onto his and placing her hands on his ass, pulling him closer to herself. Arnav’s hands found the dori of her kameez, pulled it undone and then pulled her kameez off.

 

“Arnav…”

“Are you are sure?”

“Yes.”

 

Lying her back, he pulled her shelwar off and freed himself of his own trousers. He left their underwear on and lay her back against the bed, moving between her legs.
His hand trailed down her body, tracing every curve in slow motion, while his lips travelled down the column of her neck, and then went further still until he found one of her pebbled nipples. Pulling her bra away from her breast, he took it between his lips, his tongue grazing the sensitive tip. Khushi’s hand tightened in his hair and her leg brushed against his.

His hand carried on its travel, feeling the inside of her thighs before resting on her panties. He stroked her over her pants, running his hands along the front, putting slight more pressure on the finger that traced her entrance.

 

“Complete me…”

 

He looked into her eyes, which now were much darker than what they had been a little while ago, her need mirroring his.

Arnav wanted to play with her, prolong this moment, but he too wanted to be within her, feel her warmth around his length.

Unclipping her bra, Arnav pulled it away and tossed it aside. He pressed a quick kiss on both breasts, before lightly suckling on each nipple. He then carried on to pulling her panties away and made light work of his own underwear.

Coming back over her, Arnav gentle pushed a finger into her, to check if she was ready and was glad to find she was. Her body was wet with need, ready for the taking.

 

“Baby are you sure?”

“Yes.”

 

Lips pressed between each other’s, hands locked above Khushi’s head, Arnav carefully lowered himself into her, a little at a time. Even before pushing his entire length in, he could feel her body adjust around him, squeezing him as he made his way in.

Wrapping her legs around his waist, Khushi melted into the bed, a content sigh leaving her lips. Arnav held himself still for a moment before slowly moving, taking long strokes, making her feel her full length, pushing all the way in before pulling all the way out again.

He went excruciating slowly, savouring the feeling because up until a short while ago, he’d believed he wouldn’t experience this level of intimacy with her again. Khushi lifted her hips to meet his each thrust, her legs tightening around his waist.

 

“Faster…”

 

He had known that he’d been moving to slowly for her liking, but hearing her verbalise what she wanted turned him on, making him up his speed, move faster and harder. But he made sure that he didn’t hurt her by moving too aggressively.

Once they’d established a speed and intensity that they were both happy with, Arnav kept going, holding Khushi to himself, placing kisses on her neck.

They were both getting close and Arnav moved faster. A moan of intense pleasure left Khushi’s lips and Arnav smiled against her neck. He loved knowing that he provided this much pleasure to her.

 

“Ah… Arnav… I…”

“Sh, I know.”

 

Her muscles clenched around his length tightly, she was so close. He could feel his release coming too and moved faster, lifting her hips so he was guaranteed to hit her most sensitive spot each time.

Her head turned from on side to the other, her hands clenching the sheets below her. He could feel it, it was far more intense than anything they’d ever experienced before.

With one last thrust, they both came undone. Breathing heavy, Arnav held himself still as his length emptied its content into her body. Khushi body went slack under his and Arnav gathered her into his arms, tucking her into his chest.

 

“Are you okay?”

 

Hiding her face in his chest, Khushi gave a little nod, placing light kisses on his chest.
Arnav felt his body get heavy with sleep and Khushi too felt herself becoming light.
Soon enough, they both drifted off into the world of sleep, content for the first time in a long time…

Jalebi ~ Part 29

Khushi lay in the bed, staring up at the ceiling. Rohan was still out of town and so Khushi had been spending a lot of time around the house. She’d been tempted to take the calls of the Raizada’s but she wasn’t sure if she was ready to speak to them just yet. All her thoughts, all her feelings were troubling her the more time she spent alone. When she closed her eyes, she could feel Arnav’s hands and his lips on her body. When she opened her eyes in the morning, she thought Arnav was lying beside her. It was driving her insane and she couldn’t deal with it.

As time passed and Khushi remained idle, she got more and more angry at Akash. How could he take everything away from her like that? The business, fine, his greed got the better of him, but he should have realised that taking the business would lead to her losing the love of her life, her soulmate. The more Khushi thought about it, the more she realised that she couldn’t stay mad at Arnav. But how could she not? If he hadn’t accommodated the idea in the first place then this wouldn’t have happened.

Sitting up, Khushi ran her hand through her hair, tugging on the ends. This was all driving her insane! She couldn’t deal with this any more. She needed to do something to get it sorted.

Looking at the clock, Khushi realised it was only 2pm. Jumping out of bed, Khushi got dressed. It was finally time to sort this.

 

*****

 

“Khushi? What are you… Who let you in?”

“Hi jijaji. I’m guessing you weren’t expecting me.”

 

Looking around, it was obvious that Khushi had caught Akash off guard. He hadn’t been expecting for her to come to see him and it showed on his face.

Waling into the office, she shut the door slightly, and sat in the seat opposite him.

 

“Listen…”

“No. You’re going to listen. Why would you do this to me jijaji? I respected you so much, I thought you were such a nice person and you… You conspired against me the whole time.”

“I didn’t…”

“You stole my business. The one I put my heart and soul into for five years. How could you? And then Arnav… I thought he… I believed he did this to me, I thought the worst of him… How could you mess with my love and my life like that?”

 

Looking at him, Khushi waited for an answer. Akash opened his mouth and then shut it again as he felt something snap within him.

 

“You want to know why and how?”

“Yes, please tell me.”

“You deserved it. You deserved to have everything you held important taken from you. Call it revenge.”

“Revenge for what?”

 

She looked at him quizzically, trying to make sense of what he was saying.

 

“Revenge for what Akash? What have I ever done to you that’s so bad that you felt the need to ruin my life in this manner?”

 

Remaining silent, Akash played up his options. Either he could remain silent and maybe she’d leave, or he could tell her exactly how she ruined his life. Akash decided to go for the latter.

 

“I ruined your life, because you made a mess of mine.”

“Excuse me?”

“Remember when I asked you on a date in high school?”

“No? When did you ever do that?”

“It was just before I started dating Payal. I asked you out first and you completely ignored me. You said no and then left.”

 

Her forehead creased and Akash watched as she took in the what he was saying. He could tell she was confused, really thinking hard and then her expression softened.

 

“It was a dare though?”

“Yes it had been a dare, but I was generally interested in you and I actually wanted to date you. But you shot me down in an instant, you didn’t think anything of it.”

“I didn’t realise you were being serious. How was I supposed to know?”

“Would it have made a difference to your decision?”

“No. Probably not.”

“Then you deserved what you got.”

 

Looking up, Khushi tried to understand Akash and his actions.

 

“Are you… Are you actually insane?That was in high school! And besides, you got with jiji after and now you’re married to her. It all worked out for you. Why did you need to ruin my life?”

“You don’t get it do you? I was in love with you and you turned me away. I went to Payal to make you jealous. But it never worked.”

“I don’t… Why did you feel so strongly about me back then? I was so basic, so… I was invisible.”

 

Khushi felt genuinely super confused. This was insane! So Akash had been in love with her and went to Payal to make her jealous?

 

“You may have been invisible to everyone else, but I noticed you in classes. I saw how smart you were and I found that attractive. Boys back then only cared about boobs and butts. I cared about brains.”

“But you’re with jiji now! You’re married to her! How could you do this to me and to her?”

“I couldn’t just let you get away with it Khushi. And then you got with bhai. Do you know how hard that was? Maybe if you and bhai didn’t get that close, maybe I wouldn’t have done anything. But knowing you were sleeping with him when I…”

“Don’t.”

 

She wanted him to stop. This was crazy. Akash wasn’t right in the head, there was definitely something wrong with him.

 

“Okay so I screwed up when we were kids, but Akash, you’re married to my jiji now and you’re happy! Why would you…”

“Because we needed your business! AR was sinking…”

“And I could have helped you! There was no need for you to steal my business from me.”

 

Waiting, Khushi watched as the cogs in Akash’s brain spun and he tried to think of something to say, but nothing came. Letting out a sigh of exasperation, Khushi threw her arms in the air and turned away.

 

“This was a waste of my time. You aren’t worth it. You can have Khushiyan and you can shove it up your ass. I hope jiji sees what kind of trash you are. She deserves so much better.”

 

Turning to look at Akash one last time, Khushi took in his slumped figure and just shook her head and made her way to leave. Reaching the door, she was shocked to find Arnav stood in the doorway.

 

“Arnav…”

 

Akash looked up from his desk, his eyes wide as he took his brother in.

 

“How long have you been here?”

 

Walking into the room, Arnav walked over to Akash.

 

“You did all this for revenge? You used me as a pawn so you could get revenge?”

“Bhai…”

“How could you Akash! Does my happiness mean that little to you? At the beginning, okay fine, I didn’t know Khushi, she didn’t mean anything to me. But when you realised I was falling in love with Khushi and you knew that I didn’t approve, you still went ahead for the sake of your revenge?”

 

Khushi looked between the two brothers. Akash had his head down, and Arnav was seething with anger but it was evident that he was hurting.

 

“Arnav leave it…”

“No! You may be able to leave it because you’ve moved on, but I haven’t! And so I can’t leave it.”

 

He marched over to Akash and pulled him out of the chair by his collar. Khushi rushed in after him.

 

“How could you do that to me? I’ve always loved you and treated you like my own little brother and you.”

“Arnav let him go!”

“If I was as low as you, I’d probably beat you up now, but I respect family.”

 

Letting go of his collar, Arnav threw Akash back into the chair and stormed out of the office.

 

*****

 

“Arnav! Arnav wait!”

Running after Arnav, Khushi needed to make sure that he was okay. Akash had looked drained and slightly mortified when she had left but he didn’t matter. But Arnav did.

 

“Arnav!”

 

Finally catching up with him, Khushi caught Arnav by the elbow, turning him to face her.
She saw the tears that had gathered in his eyes.

 

“He used me and my feelings for you to achieve his own twisted schemes…”

“Let’s go somewhere and talk.”

 

As much as Khushi didn’t want to be alone with Arnav, she knew that she needed to talk to him, he seemed a mess at this moment.

 

“Let’s go back to mine.”

“No thanks. I don’t want to get beaten up by your fiancé.”

 

Turning away, Arnav was prepared to make his way back over to his car when Khushi stopped him again.

 

“Rohan is out of town.”

“Why are you insisting we talk? Aren’t you the one who wanted to cut me out of your life for good?”

“A lot has happened and we found out a lot today, I know you’re feeling confused, so am I. So I think it would be us both good to sit and talk about it.”

 

Turning his attention to Khushi, he saw her outstretched hand, her caring look in her eyes. It was evident that no matter what happened between them, she still cared and maybe, just maybe, he had a chance of winning her back.

Nodding, Arnav led Khushi to the car and they made their way back to Khushi’s apartment.

 

*****

 

“Take a seat, I’ll get you some coffee.”

 

Putting her keys down, Khushi went into the little kitchen while Arnav took a seat on the sofa. He looked around and he couldn’t help but feel nervous. The last time that he’d been here, he left finding out that she was engaged to her arsehole of a childhood friend.
She reemerged moments later, much faster than she had done the other day and handed Arnav his coffee cup and took a seat beside him. Arnav noticed how when she initially sat down, she was relatively close to him, and then she scooted away from him. She took a sip of her own tea before turning to Arnav.

 

“How are you feeling?”

“I’m not as mad as I was initially. But I’m still mad. How could he… I can’t even begin to comprehend.”

“I can’t either. I can’t believe something that happened so long ago fuelled so much hate and anger in him. If I knew this was to happen, I would have just gone on that date with him.”

“He’s insane. And forget about us, he played Payal too.”

“Don’t tell jiji anything. She’d break down if she found out what he was doing and her reasoning behind it all.”

“Well she already knows he’s the reason why you haven’t got Khushiyan any more. I told Di any way but I got drunk the other day and told Nani who took it up with mama and Mami.”

“You got drunk?”

 

Khushi’s eyes widened as she turned to him fully.

 

“You don’t get drunk?”

“That was the old Arnav. This Arnav drinks to drown his sorrows. Although, I’ve promised Nani I won’t get drunk again.”

“But why were you so drunk that you told Nani something like that?”

 

Arnav took a sip of his coffee and put the mug down, turning to Khushi.

 

“Why do you think I was so drunk?”

“I don’t…”

“I handed my business over out of anger, the only woman I’ve ever wanted to be with is engaged to someone else and my brother is a piece of shit. Is it hard to see why I’ve been getting drunk?”

 

Turning away, Khushi looked down.

 

“You act like you’re the only one that’s hurting.”

“It seems like I am.”

 

Unable to contain herself, Khushi looked Arnav in the eye, and he could see the anger in her.

 

“Just because I’m not getting drunk and I’m not lashing out doesn’t mean I’m not hurting. You chose to give your business up, mine was taken away from me! Yes, I may not be with you any more, but you’re not with me either any more. You act like you were the only one in love in our relationship, but I was too. I had to let you go… Do you think that was easy for me?”

“You went and got engaged to someone else.”

 

Shaking her head, Khushi realised there was no point talking to him about this. He wouldn’t understand. He couldn’t see.

 

“You don’t get it Arnav. I gave myself to you and I thought you betrayed me.”

“I didn’t…”

“I know that now! But at the time I was hurting and confused and Rohan was there for me. I thought that maybe our parents knew what they were doing when they had fixed our rishta…”

“But Khushi, you know now that I didn’t play you, or cheat you. Take me back.”

 

He’d put the cup down and leaned closer to her, taking her hands in his own. He looked into her eyes, searching for an answer, pleading almost for another chance.

 

“I love you and I know you still love me. Take me back Khushi.”

 

He leaned closer, his lips almost touching hers, waiting for a response. She looked into his eyes, and could see the sincerity, the need, the desperation almost.

 

“I can’t…”

 

He leaned closer, wanting to close the gap.

 

“You can…”

“Rohan…”

 

She moved back, pulling her hands out of Arnav’s and looked away.

 

“I can’t! I can’t do that to Rohan. Not after the way he supported me at my time of need. I can’t…”

 

Getting to her feet, she turned away. Arnav too got up, his hand reaching her shoulder.

 

“We’re in love. Rohan will understand…”

“I can’t do that Arnav! Please, don’t make this harder for me.”

“So what, that’s it? Despite knowing I never wanted to hurt you, you’re still willing to turn your back on me? Does what we shared mean that little to you?”

“Please leave.”

 

Tears rolled down Khushi’s face. She wanted to be with Arnav, of course she did! But how could she just go back? How could she do that to Rohan? She couldn’t. Her bed was made and she had to lie in it now. Without Arnav…

Jalebi ~ Part 28

As days pass, it became abundantly clear that Arnav was struggling to come to terms with the events that had taken place. By 5pm every day, Arnav is completely drunk. Anjali had thrown out all the alcohol in the house, but despite that, he still managed to get drunk.

 

“Anjali bitya, what are we to do? Chote can’t carry on like this. He was hurting so at first I didn’t say anything despite being completely against his actions. But now. This is too much.”

“I know Nani. I’m trying, but I don’t know what to do.”

“Have you been able to get through to Khushi?”

“No. But I know Payal has been talking to her.”

 

Nani nodded and then sat down. She was stressed. Seeing her grandson like this was really hurting her. Arnav was always so strong, so kept together. And now all of a sudden he was a complete and utter mess and there seemed to be no way to help him.

 

*****

 

“But Khushi…”

“Jiji please. How about you come round and meet Rohan? He’s really nice, I’m sure you’ll really like him.”

“Khushi, I told you Akash doesn’t want me to contact you. He’s holding you responsible for Bhai being such a mess.”

 

Gritting her teeth, Khushi stopped herself from telling Payal that Akash was the cause of the condition Arnav was in, not her.

 

“There’s nothing I can do jiji. I’ve moved on and he will too. Any way, I have to go now.”

 

Before Payal could say anything more, Khushi put the phone down. She didn’t want to speak about Arnav any more or hear how much he was struggling. She had received a number of calls from the Raizada household and a tonne of messages from Anjali. She understood their concern for Arnav, but at the same time there really wasn’t much she could do. She’d made her bed and now she had to lie in it. It was hurting her, knowing Arnav was a mess and that’s she was the cause of his state, but she just couldn’t bring herself to face him.

Sitting down on the edge of her bed, Khushi scrolled through her camera roll and found a picture of Arnav. It was one she had taken of him while he was asleep in bed. His hair was over his eyes and his bare chest was on show. Looking at the picture, it hurt Khushi’s heart as she realised just how much she actually missed him. How she wanted to lie beside him again, to be able to push his hair out of his eyes and cuddle into his chest. But she couldn’t. That phase of their life was over and she was trying to move on with Rohan.

Locking the screen of her phone, Khushi put it down and got to her feet before turning to fix the bed. As she leaned down to fix the pillow, a strong pair of arms came to hold her, their body pressed against hers.

 

“Hi.”

“Rohan let me go please.”

“Nope…”

 

Pushing her hair over to one shoulder, Rohan pushed Khushi’s kameez off her shoulder and attempted to kiss her exposed skin.

 

“No!”

 

Moving out of his grip, Khushi fixed her clothes and moved away from him.

 

“I can’t… I’m sorry. I can’t.”

“We’re getting married soon, we don’t need to worry.”

“It’s not that. I just can’t do this… With you… I…”

 

Clenching his jaw shut, Rohan looked to Khushi. He didn’t say anything, but his eyes said it all. He wasn’t impressed.

 

“Right. Okay. Whatever. I just came to tell you I’m going out of town for a few days. I need to get some work related stuff sorted. I was going to ask if you wanted to come with me, but I think it’d be better if you stayed here and tried to get your head sorted.”

“I’m sorry…”

“I’m being patient with you Khushi, you know I am, but you’re starting to test my limits. I get that you’re not ready to get intimate with me, but I need you to at least start trying to accept me.”

“I am… I will…”

 

Grabbing his things, Rohan said goodbye to Khushi and then left her room. Sitting down, Khushi realised that she really needed to find closure, if she didn’t, she’d never be able to move forward. She realised with Rohan out of town, now was probably the best time to get anything done.

 

*****

 

“Sir, do you know where the file is?”

“If I knew where it was, I wouldn’t be asking you! Find that god damn file! I have a meeting with the Mehta’s in less than an hour.”

“Maybe you should ask ASR…”

“I am ASR.”

“I mean Arnav sir…”

“No. I can do this myself. I don’t need his help.”

 

Akash dismissed Aman who shook his head and walked away. Ever since Akash had taken over, the whole company was a shambles. Even though all the employees were slightly scared of Arnav, at least they knew that he was fair and that if he got angry, there was a reason behind it. But Akash… If was unable to do something, he’d take it out on everyone else. And he never was able to do anything. If Arnav was a natural born charismatic businessman, then Akash was the complete opposite. He couldn’t lead a business when he didn’t even have business knowledge. No matter what his qualification stated, his business’s acumen was zeeo and he couldn’t control his temper at all.

Aman had never minded having Arnav as a boss, but right now, he prayed for Arnav to return so they wouldn’t have to deal with Akash any more.

Akash was struggling. Nothing was going right for him. Since his time here as the owner, he had failed to close any deals successfully and he was constantly messing up at meetings because he seemed to always have the wrong files on him.

He had never struggled this much when he was working alongside Arnav but now, nothing was going right. But he wasn’t going to admit defeat and go to Arnav. He would manage this. How hard could it be to manage two businesses that were fully equipped with more than capable staff. If Arnav and Khushi were able to do it, then surely he would be able to do it too.

 

*****

 

Arnav was sat by his bar, drinking his sorrows away. Nani walked in and wrinkled up her nose. Arnav was just attempting to reach out for the bottle and was about to pour himself another glass when Nani stopped him.

 

“Enough is enough Chote. This isn’t you! You aren’t a drunk. You need to start coming to terms with what had happened in your life and you need to start working through your issues.”

“I’ve tried Nani, but I can’t get anything sorted and I can’t make things right. I’ve failed Khushi and I’ve failed myself.”

“Chote you can’t blame yourself.”

“Oh I don’t. I mean I do, but I blame my brother too. How did I ever trust that scum?”

 

Devyani Raizada looked at her drunk grandson, her eyes wide. What was he saying?

 

“Chote, what do you mean?”

“I mean, I didn’t steal Khushi’s business, Akash did. He took advantage of the fact we were both distracted from the night before and used that against us. I trusted him despite knowing he had bad intentions and now I’m suffering while he’s living the life.”

 

Devyani knew that she should be angry at Arnav. She didn’t miss what he meant when he said they were distracted from the night before. And she knew exactly what he was insinuating happened between him and Khushi the night before. But she wasn’t angry. If anything it hurt her more because she realised that Arnav’s feelings for Khushi were very much real, otherwise he would never have slept with her. He knew what their families rules were and he wouldn’t go against his Nani for the sake of any old woman.

But more than that, she was concerned about what Arnav was saying about Akash.

 

“Chote, are you sure about what you are saying about Akash?”

”It’s the only thing I’m sure about any more. He went against my wishes, stole my girlfriends business and ruined my relationship with the woman I worked so hard to win over.”

“Arnav, I will sort this. I’ll sort it all for you, but you need to stop drinking.”

”There’s nothing that can be done Nani. To give Khushi her business back, Akash needs to sign off the papers and he’ll never do that. And even if he did, she’s getting married to someone else. My life is destroyed.”

”We will sort this Chote. Just please stop drinking.”

 

Arnav looked into his nani’s eyes. It was evident that his behaviour was hurting her and he couldn’t bare to see that hurt in her eyes. He put down his glass and pushed it aside.

 

“I’ll try Nani. Only for you.”

 

Thanking Arnav, Nani turned around. She needed to go and speak to Anjali. If there was any kind of funny business going in, Anjali would know. Arnav wouldn’t be able to hide anything from his Di.

 

*****

 

Slumped over on the Anjali’s bed, Devyani couldn’t believe what she was being told. How could one brother do that to another brother?

 

“Anjali bitya, we need to get this sorted.”

“But what can we do Nani. Akash won’t hand the business back over and Khushi is about to take Chote back.”

“We need to talk to Mamorama and Mahendar”

“I don’t know Nani… Chote wouldn’t want to cause problems within the family.”

“I know he wouldn’t, but this needs to get sorted. Chote is a mess and I’m worried… I’m worried that if he can’t pull out of this, he’ll do something stupid.”

“He wouldn’t do that Nani.”

”At this moment I don’t know what he’d do. He’s hurting so much.”

“Maybe if you spoke to Khushi…”

”I’ve called her as you have, but she isn’t taking our calls. No Anjali, I think we need to sort our house first before trying to contact Khushi.”

 

Getting to her feet, Nani walked out of Anjali room and made her way over to mama and Mami’s room. Anjali knew this probably wasn’t the best thing to do, but maybe Nani was right, maybe this was the only thing left to do. Getting to her feet, Anjali went after Nani, but made sure she stopped by Arnav’s bedroom first. His door was open and so Anjali could see him lying on his bed, facing the ceiling.

She’d never imagined her brother would fall in love to this extent. But then she never expected her other brother to stoop to such an extent. Sighing, Anjali left Arnav and made her way over to mama and Mami’s room to find Nani already there, speaking to them.

As Devyani and Anjali explained what was happening, the colour fell from both Manorama and Mahender’s faces.

 

“Sasuma… Are you sure? Our Akash bitwa… But he never goes against anything Arnav bitwa says. Why would he do something like this?”

“That’s what I don’t understand Manorama. If Akash wanted a share of the business or if he wanted more responsibility, then Chote would have given it to him, but why… I don’t understand.”

“Anjali bitya, you tell us, Arnav bitwa tells you everything.”

 

Explaining everything she knew, Anjali talked them through everything Arnav had told her. Both Akash’s parents were in disbelief, but they didn’t disbelieve what was happening. They had senses the tension between the two brothers and seeing how Arnav had been, all the stories fit together.

Manorama turned to her husband.

 

“Call Akash home now! We are going to sort this.”

 

As Akash’s father dialled his sons number, Anjali turned and found a pale looking Payal stood at the door.

 

“Payal…”

”He… He’s the reason…”

“We didn’t want you to find out like this.”

“He’s caused this? My sister’s life is a shambles because of…”.

 

Payal felt her world come crashing down around her as she turned away. How could Akash do that? How could he do that to Khushi? How could he do that to Payal!? Did he not for a moment think that he was hurting her if he hurt her sister? How could he?

 

*****

 

“Okay yes! I am responsible for everything that’s been happening between Arnav and Khushi and with the changing ownership of the business, but I had a good reason for it.”

“What reason could you possibly have for cheating your brother like that and ruining his life? Akash, have you seen Arnav bitwa recently? Have you seen the state he’s in? If you wanted more share of the business or more responsibility, why didn’t you just ask him? Why…”

”Ma please. I did what I needed to do to protect myself and secure myself a future.”

 

Anjali and Nani remained quiet as they watched the face off between Akash and his parents. Admittedly, they had been worried that Manorama would react badly, that should would side with her son and refuse to believe what was going on. But if Manorama loved her son, she loved her nephew equally.

 

“Akash bitwa, he’s your own brother!”

“He’s not my own brother! He’s my cousin! Everyone acts like…”

“Don’t! Don’t you dare say anything against my Arnav bitwa. He has always loved you like a brother, always cared for you. He would do anything for you.”

 

Turning away from his mother, Akash was fuming. How dare his own parents tell him he was making the wrong decisions and that his actions were wrong? Shouldn’t they be telling him that he did a good job, he secured their family a stable future?

Turning to leave the room, Akash saw his wife standing in the doorway and she looked livid.

 

“Payal…”

 

Walking towards her, Akash stretched his hand out, urging her to take it. She didn’t. Coming up to her, Akash stood before Payal, waiting for her to say something. Remaining unmoving for a moment, Payal thought about everything she’d learnt that day. Pulling her hand back, she slapped Akash across the face, hard.

Everyone in the room gasped as they took the seething Payal in.

 

“Payal…”

“How could you? How could you do that to my sister? You may not accept bhai as your own brother and may not care for what you do to him, but Khushi is my sister and I love her! Did you not think…”

“I did it for us! So we’d have a better future!”

“Right. So for our happy future, you destroyed my sister’s life?”

“She seems fine to me, she’s getting married…”

“Are you stupid? You know as well as I do that it took Khushi so long to accept her feelings for bhai, to give their relationship a go. It took her so long to admit that she loved him, she was ready to spend her life with him and you… You took that happiness away from her.”

“Again, she seems fine, she’s getting married…”

”She’s only doing that because she’s trying to run away from all this! She’s never been good at dealing with her problems and this… I can’t believe you…”

 

Shaking her head in disgust, Payal realised that there was no point arguing or trying to explain anything to Akash. Entering the room, she approached both Nani and Manorama.

 

“Dadiji, ma ji, I would like to go home for a couple of days.”

 

Akash turned around to protest, but he saw his mother and grandmother had already given her permission to go. Turning away, Payal left the room, throwing one angry glance at Akash before she left.

Did he do the wrong thing? Had he made a mess? Why was everyone so angry when all he was trying to do was make a future for himself?

 

Jalebi ~ Part 27

By the time Arnav arrived home, he was a wreck. His eyes were bloodshot and he was in a foul mood. The moment he stepped through the door, Anjali came rushing over to him.

 

“Chote! Where on earth have you been? You went out hours ago, saying you just needed to pick up a new laptop charger and there’s been no news from you since. Do you know how many times I’ve called you? Do you know how worried I was?”

 

Arnav listened to everything his sister had to say, not entirely taking in a word she was saying. Anjali realised that Arnav’s attention was somewhere else. Taking a good look at him, she saw his red, puffy eyes.

Taking his arm, Anjali led Arnav into the living room, sat him down on the sofa and then sat down beside him.

 

“Chote, what’s the matter?”

 

Arnav remained stoic for a moment before responding by laying down on the sofa, his head on his sisters lap and his arms around her.

 

“My life is over Di”.

 

Completely breaking down, Anjali looked down at Arnav completely alarmed. She couldn’t remember the last time her brother broke down in this manner. Arnav usually always hid his emotions from her, tried to be tough for her, but right now…

Anjali stroked his hair as he cried. Nani came outside, hearing the commotion followed by Shyam and Manorama.

 

Mami came over to Arnav and sat on the sofa by his feet, her hand on his back.

 

“Arnav bitwa, what happens?”

 

Calming down slightly, Arnav wiped his eyes and sat up.

 

“I saw Khushi…”

 

The Raizada women and Shyam all looked between each other, not entirely sure how they should proceed with the conversation.

 

“Kya? Khushi’s back? Did you speak to her? What did she say? Chote, did she say anything to you?”

 

Shaking his head, Arnav looked at his Di and took her hands in his own.

 

“She’s engaged.”

 

Mami gasped as did Anjali. Nani turned to Shyam, her eyes wide as she realised what was happening here.

 

“She’s engaged? But how Saale Saab? Only a few weeks ago you and her were talking about marriage. How in this short time has she managed to go and get herself engaged?”

“She’s engaged to her childhood friend jijaji. The man her parents had initially picked for her. I met him when we went to London and you don’t understand how smug he was. I want to kill him!”

 

Anger irrupted within Arnav. How could she actually do that to him? How could she move on just like that? Did their relationship really mean that little to her? Turning back to his sister, Anjali could see the anger in his eyes.

 

“Did she not tell you as well Di that she wanted to spend her life with me? Then how could she do this? She says I’ve deceived her, but what has she done? She promised herself to me and now she’s with another man. How could she do that to me?”

 

Getting to his feet, Arnav stormed off towards his bedroom. The Raizada’s all looked between each other, unsure of how they needed to deal with this issue.

 

“Maybe I should go and speak to Khushi. Tell her that whatever happened wasn’t down to Chote.”

”She won’t believe you Rani Sahiba. I’m sure Saale Saab would have tried his best to make her listen to him. But she like him is also hard headed. I don’t think any of us getting involved will have any benefit.”

“But Chote… He’s so broken. We have to do something before he does something stupid. I’ve never seen him this upset, or this angry.”

”I think we just need to give him some time to cool down and come to terms with everything.”

“He’s never loved anyone the way he loves Khushi and I don’t think he’ll ever love anyone else as much as he loves her. I don’t think he’ll ever fully come to terms with what has happened…”

 

*****

 

Pacing his bedroom, Arnav tried to come up with a plan. He needed to do something. Anything! He couldn’t just sit and wait for her to go and get married to someone else. He needed to fight for her. But his options were limited and he didn’t know what to do. He had thought that by telling her the truth about Akash, she would maybe reconsider, but she hadn’t. There had to be something! Running his hand through his hair, Arnav yanked the ends of his hair in frustration. Why was this happening!?

 

*****

 

Dinner was served and ready. The Raizada family all sat around waiting for Arnav to come down before they could start eating. Hari Prakash emerged from Arnav’s bedroom and made his way down to the dining room.

 

“Arnav Bhaiya has said that he doesn’t want to eat now, you all should continue.”

“Has Chote had something to eat at least? If he doesn’t eat he’s going to fall ill?”

“I took him some coffee and some toast a little while ago.”

”Okay. Leave him gor now, I’ll take some food to him later.”

 

Leaving the dining area, Anjali turned to her husband and sighed.

 

“Shyam ji, we have to do something, I can’t see Chote like this.”

 

Akash, who had been absent when Arnav had returned home, looked up from his food.

 

“What happened to bhai now?”

 

Turning her attention to Akash, Anjali couldn’t believe that Akash was asking this question. After all, he was the main reason why Arnav was in this condition. She wanted to say something, make it known to the family that Akash was the cause of Arnav’s plight, but she stopped herself. Her Chote didn’t want the family to know about Akash and she was going to respect his wishes.

 

“Chote saw Khushi earlier and it didn’t go well.”

 

Looking up from her food, Payal’s eyes widened.

 

“Khushi’s back?”

”Yes. Chote didn’t say when she returned, but yes she’s back and she’s engaged. Did you know about that?”

”What? She’s engaged? To who? How could she get engaged and not tell me about it?”

 

Anjali felt sorry for Payal, she looked genuinely hurt and stressed about the fact that Khushi was engaged to someone and she didn’t know about it. Telling Payal everything Arnav had told her, Anjali watched as her expression fell.

 

“I can’t believe… But she loves Arnav ji so much. I can’t believe she… Why would she do this to herself?”

“I don’t know Payal. I really don’t know.”

”Di, do you think I should talk to her? Explain to her about bhai’s condition? If she knows how much he is hurting, surely she’d…”

 

Intervening, Akash looked up from his food and stopped Payal in her tracks.

 

“Don’t you dare! You are not to say anything to Khushi. She’s made her decision and it seems as though she is sticking to it. If she cared for bhai at all, she never would have gotten engaged to someone else in the first place. If she’s can do that’s to bhai, she doesn’t deserve him. Besides, with which right do you want to go and talk to her? The both of you shared everything and she didn’t even tell you about her engagement, that should tell you how she sees you. You are to say nothing to her Payal, I forbid it.”

 

Payal looked slightly taken aback. Akash had never spoken to her like that and she didn’t understand why he was speaking like that now.

 

Anjali watched Payal and Akash’s exchange closely and her heart went out for Payal who looked hurt and confused. On one hand she’d just found out that her cousin had made a huge decision regarding what she was going to do with her life without telling her, and on the other hand, her husband was giving her a hard time.

 

“Why are you being like this? She’s my sister and despite her decision not to tell me, I still love her. I’m sorry Akash, but I can’t just turn my back to her, I know she’s going through a hard time too.”

“Payal Bitya is absolutely correct. Khushi is hurting too and she can’t just get upset with her and turn her back from her. Payal, I think you should calm Khushi and see what she has to say.”

 

“Ji Dadiji.”

 

Leaving the table, Payal went upstairs to make her call. Akash remained at the table, his hands fidgeting under the table. What if Arnav had told Khushi that he was the one who had caused the hand over of the business? What if Khushi told Payal? It could cause problems in their relationship. But seeing how Dadi had spoken, he didn’t think he would be able to stop Payal. He just had to hope for the best that Arnav hadn’t told Khushi anything.

 

*****

 

Both Arnav’s bedroom and the study were a mess. Papers had been thrown across both rooms, a couple of vases had been broken… Arnav had been through the papers over and over and over again to the point where he had almost memories the whole file. There was nothing in there that was going to help him give Khushi her business back without involving Akash.

Arnav was now sat in their little bar, with a glass of vodka. Anjali had followed the trail of mess and saw her brother downing the glass of alcohol in one go.

 

“Chote! What are you doing?”

 

Turning around, he saw Anjali walk in, her eyes wide with shock.

 

“I’m drinking Di. What does it look like?”

“But you don’t drink like this. Chote come on, stop.”

 

Taking the bottle of vodka away from Arnav, Anjali took her brothers face in. He looked tired and angry and confused and broken.

 

“You can’t do this to yourself Chote.”

“What’s the point Di? What am I living for right now? My brother who I’ve always loved had taken the one thing I loved most in my life. My business isn’t mine any more and the woman I love… She’s someone else’s. I have nothing Di. Just this bottle of vodka.”

 

He made to take the bottle from Anjali but she had it away from him.

 

“Chote, I know your hurting, but this behaviour needs to stop right now. We will find a way to get this sorted…”

“But I won’t get Khushi back.”

 

It was evident that he was really struggling to deal with what was happening to him. Anjali felt broken herself. She didn’t know how to help her brother.

 

“You know Di, back in high school, I never really noticed her. But when I saw her at the reunion last year, I was completely blown away by her. And then I started to get to know her and I started to fall in love with her. It took me ages and ages to make her accept my feelings and give our relationship and chance but… It was all for nothing.”

 

Resting his head against the bar, Anjali pat her brother on the shoulder. She didn’t know how to comfort him, didn’t know what the right thing was to say. As much as she felt her brothers pain, she did understand what was going through Khushi’s head. She’d taken a chance on Arnav and subsequently had lost everything she had ever worked for. As much as Anjali wanted to go and talk to her, to try and get her to reconsider, she knew that Khushi’s feelings right now and the way she was behaving, were completely justified.

 

“Chote, go to bed. It’s been a long day for you.”

 

Nodding, Arnav got to his feet, stumbling slightly as he got up. Anjali took hold of his arm and he held onto her for dear life as she guided him towards his bedroom.

Upon arriving at his room, Arnav crashed onto his bed the moment he saw it. Moments later he was fast asleep. Taking his shoes off and tucking his in, Anjali looked at her brother who was completely exhausted and completely heart broken. She needed to do something to help his sort all this, but what and how? How could she get Khushi to reconsider, especially now when she was engaged to someone else. Making sure Arnav was asleep, Anjali backed out of his bedroom and made her way towards Payal’s.

Knocking on Payal’s door, she waited to be let inside.

 

“Come in.”

 

Pushing the door open, Anjali saw Payal quickly wipe her tears away and she sat up a little straighter on the edge of the bed.

 

“Di? Did you need something?”

”Were you able to get hold of Khushi?”

 

Anjali watched as Payal’s shoulders slumped slightly but she nodded.

 

“She didn’t say much, but she’s invited me round to her apartment so that I can meet Rohan. Di, this isn’t right! Nothing about any of this feels right. We need to do something! Khushi can’t marry Rohan, I know her, her heart belong to and with Bhai. If we don’t do something, she’ll go on to making the biggest mistake of her life.”

”I know Payal, but I don’t know what we can do.”

“Anything Di. We can do anything but we need to do it soon. I’m worried Khushi is going to speed up the wedding process now that she knows we all know. I know what she thinks like, she’s going to try to run further away.”

 

Sitting down beside Payal, Anjali took Payal’s hand into her own.

 

“We’re going to sort this mess, and we’re going to get Khushi back for Chote. I can’t see my brother like this.”

 

Anjali felt a new power within her. Akash had messed with her Chote’s life and had ruined everything for him. But she wasn’t going to let him win. She was going to get Khushi her business back and Khushi back for Arnav, even if it was the last thing she ever did.

Unwanted ~ Part 30

 

Arnav

 

Happy birthday to me! I’ve reached the grand old age of 33 and don’t have a lot to show for myself. I mean obviously I have my business empire, but other than that, not a lot. I don’t know where my wife is and my life hasn’t really progressed much in the last six years.

But for the first time in six years, I’m actually looking forward to my birthday. I get to spend the day around a group of young people who I have gotten very attached to. In order to celebrate, I have brought some chocolates to share with the kids.

It’s going to be a good day, I could tell.

 

*****

 

Just before the children went for their lunch, I decided to distribute the chocolates that I had brought with me.

 

“So it’s my birthday today and I have brought some chocolates for everyone!”

 

There was a slight yelp of joy as I started going round each desk, letting each child pick a chocolate. One by one I went through them all until I reached Arushi. Now unlike all the other kids, she hadn’t been anticipating my arrival with the treats. She was sat at her desk, drawing what looked like dresses.

 

“Here you go Arushi, choose one.”

“No thank you sir.”

“Why not? Don’t you like chocolate?”

“I do, but I’m not allowed to have normal chocolate. I can only eat special chocolate my mama buys me.”

“Why’s that?”

“I have sugar ki bimaari.”

“You’re diabetic?”

 

I could feel my eyes widen as I waited for a response from her. She nodded her little head just as the bell went off, signalling lunchtime.

I dismissed the children once I was sure that another member of staff was outside, ready to take them. I watched Arushi slowly put her things away.

 

“But you eat jalebis?”

“My mama makes me special ones, just for me.”

“I’m diabetic too.”

 

Getting to her feet, she rushed over to the door where her friend was waiting for her. Turning around, she gave me a little wave.

 

“I’ll tell my mama to make some special ones for you too sir.”

 

*****

 

All throughout lunchtime, I couldn’t stop thinking about Arushi and the little revelation that she had made. I should’ve known. As her teacher, I should’ve known that she was diabetic.

But that wasn’t all. There was something else about this matter that was troubling me and I didn’t know what it was and why.

I knew that children could get diabetes, but Arushi was so young? She’s only 5? It wasn’t fair that such a young child should have diabetes. They should be able to enjoy their life, eat as much sugar as they want without having to think anything of it. They shouldn’t have to turn down sweets and chocolates. It wasn’t fair.

 

*****

 

At the end of the day, I watched as all the children got picked up by their parents. Once all my kids were gone, I was ready to go back to my classroom when I saw Arushi still sat on the small wall, waiting.

I made my way over to the wall and sat down on it beside her.

 

“Your mama isn’t here yet?”

“Mama has work so she can’t get me any way. But Priya wasn’t here today so Naina aunty hasn’t come either.”

“So who are you waiting for?”

 

Arushi shrugged her shoulders as she swung her little feet.

 

“Have you always had diabetes Arushi?”

 

She nodded without looking up.

 

“Does your mum have diabetes?”

 

Shaking her head, she looked up at me.

 

“Mama said papa has diabetes. That’s why she knows how to make special jalebis. She used to make it for papa all the time.”

“Oh, I see.”

 

Turning around, she looked back towards the main gate. There were still quite a lot of children around.

 

“Do you want me to call home to make sure that someone is coming to take you?”

“It’s okay. Someone always comes.”

 

We sat in silence for a while.

 

“Do you have any plans of what to do when you go home?”

“No. Play with mama and then dinner and then bed maybe.”

“Do you get a lot of time to play with your mama?”

“Lots and lots of time.”

 

Her face lit up as we spoke about her mother and it was evident that they shared a close relationship. It must be hard for her mother, being a single parent…

 

“Are you going to do anything when you go home sir? On my birthday, mama takes me to the park!”

“When I go home, I’ll probably call my family and then plan next weeks lessons.”

“No cake?”

“I live on my own, so no cake.”

“Do you not have any family?”

 

If this were an adult asking, I would find them to be very rude and intrusive. But Arushi was just a child and she was curious.

 

“I do, but my family live in Delhi. So I can’t see them for my birthday.”

“Oh… Mama says she used to live in Delhi before, a long time ago. My papa too.”

 

So Arushi’s parents lived in Delhi? Could it be possible that I knew her parents? Shaking my head, I pushed the thought away. I was being crazy. Delhi was huge and there were tonnes and tonnes of people. The chances of actually knowing her parents were slim to none.

 

“Did I tell you sir, it’s my dad’s birthday today too! Me and mama did pooja for papa’s birthday in the morning.”

“Really? That’s such a coincidence!”

 

So Arushi’s father had the same birthday as me. I wanted to ask if she had spoken to her father, or made him a card to wish him, but I still hadn’t established if Arushi’s parents were separated or if her father was no longer alive. If he wasn’t alive, I didn’t want to upset her by asking if she’d spoke to him.

Something about this child intrigued me and I wanted to know more about her and her family. But how was I to do that?

Looking over her shoulder once more, I saw Arushi’s face light up as she saw a man in the distance.

 

“Arushi!”

 

The man called out and Arushi jumped to her feet, grabbing her bag that was on the floor.

 

“I have to go now sir!”

“Is that someone to pick you up?”

 

She nodded her little head frantically as she ran round the wall and started making her way down the gates. I watched as she ran off. The man looked a similar age to me, maybe slightly shorter than me. I watched as he stopped where he was, a smile on his face as his eyes fixed on the little girl running towards him.

I kept watching, he knelt down slightly as Arushi approached and she threw her little arms around him, and he lifted her up.

Who was this man? I knew Arushi’s dad was out of the picture, but who was this? Whoever it was, it was evident that he and Arushi shared a close bond. They both looked delighted to be together as they made their way down the path and out the school gates.
I had never thought that Arushi may have any other family other than her mother. This man could be her uncle.

Shaking my head, I got off the wall and made my way back tinny classroom. I was getting far too invested…

 

*****

 

When I finally got home that evening, the first thing I did was check my phone for all my messages. There was a whole stack from friends and employees wishing me a happy birthday. And then of course there was a whole lot of messages from my family.

 

Turning FaceTime on, I gave Di a call. She answered on the second ring.

 

“Hi Di.”

“Happy birthday Chote!”

“Thanks Di. How have you been?”

“I’ve been alright, you?”

“I’ve been good too. Just keeping myself busy.”

“When are you coming back Chote? We’re all really missing you.”

“I’m missing you guys too. I should be able to start thinking about coming back soon. Veer has been interviewing potential candidates like crazy. But it’s midterm now. So anyone he hires, they won’t be able to start until the new term begins.”

“That’s fine, there’s only a few weeks left.”

 

There was a pause as me and Di just took each other in. They hadn’t been apart for this long in a very long time and Arnav could tell it was unsettling Anjali.

 

“Di, I promise, I’ll be back soon. Or why don’t you come and visit me for a few days?”

“I’d love to. But Shalini has school and I can’t just leave her and come.”

“I understand Di.”

 

Me and Di made small talk. We spoke for a while. For the first time in a long time, me and Di were able to have a long conversation without arguing.

Once we were done, she passed the phone over to Akash and then to Nani and then back to Di.

 

“I was going to pass the phone to Nimisha, but she’s gone out with Pari. Maybe you can call them later, or they’ll call you?”

 

I nodded. I didn’t want to argue with Di by saying that I wasn’t going to call them. Wishing me a happy birthday once more, Di ended the call and I put my phone aside.

My time here really was almost up. There was only about another 2 weeks of the term and then the kids would go on holiday. And when they came back, they would have a new teacher.

As much as I was glad to be almost done, it was also hard. I’d really started enjoying teaching and I’d really grown fond of the kids around me. They’d become a part of my life and I loved seeing how far they’d come in terms of their education since I first starts with them.

When I’d arrived they were learning the letters H, I and J. Now, most of them knew the entire alphabet! We’d come a long way and my journey with them was almost at its ends.
As much as I had achieved a lot, I also didn’t achieve a lot. I had no new information regarding Khushi, no new leads. Nothing. Mumbai was cold. There was no sign of Khushi here. But regardless of the that, my heart told me that I needed to be here, that I was close.

Feelings were telling me to stay, the facts were telling me to move along.

Laying back in my bed, I looked up at the ceiling. If only a sign would just fall from the sky. But of course, nothing came.

Sighing, I got comfortable in bed, letting myself rest. Shutting my eyes, I was ready to take a short nap.

 

Just as I was about to drift off, a thought hit me.

Nimisha and Pari hadn’t called me today.

Now of course, to some this wouldn’t seem like a big deal, but to me, this was something noteworthy.

When I’d first moved here, Nimisha called me constantly. Sometimes with the pretence that she was missing me, other times saying Pari needed to talk to me.

As time went on, she called less and less frequently. But what stood out about today was that it was my birthday. Nimisha would never miss my birthday. Looking at the clock, I realised it was almost 7. The entire day was almost done and Nimi hasn’t called me? In a bit, Pari would go to sleep and wouldn’t be able to speak to me?

That was strange. It seemed out of character. And Di had said they were out. Where could they be at this time of evening?

Call me paranoid but something wasn’t fitting for me. Something was going on. Otherwise Nimisha wouldn’t pass up the opportunity of making a song and dance about our relationship. Something wasn’t right. Something was going on. But I didn’t know how I felt about it. Do I feel happy that Nimisha has left me alone, or should I be suspicious as to what she’s up to?

All of a sudden, I felt torn all over again. Something wasn’t right. I knew.

Jalebi ~ Part 26

 

“I’m engaged Arnav.”

 

Looking at the ring on Khushi’s finger and then looking between her and Rohan, it took Arnav a few minutes to process it all.

 

“Wait what?”

“I should’ve told you as soon as I saw you…

“Yes, yes you should have! How could you leave like that and come back engaged? Did you not think about me for even a moment? Did you not remember the fact that I wanted to marry you? How did you forget about everything we’d been through? How could you?”

“How could I? How could I?!”

 

Khushi felt her patience slipping away from her, her anger rising. Rohan took hold of her arm, whispered how she needed to calm down. But she wasn’t having it.

 

“I could do this because you deceived me! You stole my business from me! And you have the audacity to ask me how dare I?”

“Khushi…”

“I gave myself to you after trying to stay away from you. It took me ages to open myself up to you and that’s how you repaid me…”

“I didn’t do anything! It was Akash!”

 

Khushi stopped for a moment. What did he say?

“Jijaji?”

“Yes. It was all his master plan. Right from the moment he called you back for the reunion he had this plan. I knew about it from the start but I never thought it was a good idea. But initially I went with him, but only to an extent. Then I started to work with you, got to know you, and I couldn’t do it, I told him I wanted out. And then things really started changing between us and I…”

“Why didn’t you say no from the start?”

“I didn’t think much of it, I didn’t think Akash was being serious. And then I realised he was and that’s when I said no.”

 

Raising her hand to head, Khushi tried to take in everything that she’d just learnt. How could Akash do that to her? How could he even think about doing something like that?

 

“But Payal…”

“He loves Payal truly…”

“How could he do that to me when he’s always been trying to get into bed with my cousin. Did he not think…”

“I don’t know Khushi. I don’t know his logic behind it all. But I need you to know it wasn’t me. I didn’t even know when he created the papers. I’d already made it clear to him long before that we needed to put a stop to the plan. And he agreed. I honestly thought he was going to back off…”

 

Rohan who had been standing beside Khushi patiently finally started to lose his cool. He’d had enough of this.

 

“Okay. Right, you’ve said you’re bit, you’ve done what you needed to do, but it doesn’t change what’s happened. Whether it was your plan or someone else’s, Khushi no longer has her business. I don’t think there’s much else to be said.”

“I’d appreciate it if you didn’t come between us.”

“I’m afraid I have to be between you. Khushi’s my fiancé and I need to make sure you’re not saying anything to trouble her.”

 

Arnav moved up to Rohan. Who the hell did he think he was? Khushi sensed the tension between the two men and moved between them.

 

“Look, I don’t need you two to start arguing. Arnav, I appreciate your attempts to sort things, but… There’s nothing that can be done. You can’t give me Khushiyan back… As for us… I can’t trust you Arnav, I’m sorry. I know it sounds harsh, given everything that you’ve told me, but I can’t… I’m sorry. I’ve moved on with me life, I’ve moved on with Rohan, and I want you to respect my decision.”

“So what? That’s it for us?”

“I told you before I left, it was over between us.”

 

Tears pricked in both Arnav and Khushi’s eyes. She blinked them away as Rohan wrapped an arm around her. Arnav took a step closer to Khushi.

 

“I love you… I can’t live without you.”

 

She looked at him, wanting to move closer to him and wipe his tears away. But she was aware of Rohan holding her close. In her heart she knew she still loved him but…

 

“I’m sorry Arnav… We spent some beautiful moments together and I guess they and you will always be special. But it was always meant to be me and Rohan. I guess I got confused along the way. I’m not confused now and Rohan has accepted my past with you…”

 

Rohan and Khushi both watched as Arnav’s body deflated, he looked completely defeated. It pulled at Khushi’s heart. She’d never seen him like this. He looked so broken, so lost. She placed a hand on his shoulder.

 

“I’m sorry… But you will find someone for yourself, someone who will love you and care for you the way Rohan loves and cares for me.”

“I can’t be here…”

 

Holding back the tears that were threatening to fall, Arnav tried to hold himself together. He didn’t want to cry in front of her any more, and definitely not in front of Rohan.

 

“I’m sorry I came here.”

“Arnav…”

 

He brushed past both Khushi and Rohan and made his way over to the door. One hand on the door handle, he turned around and took one last look at Khushi.

 

“Goodbye Khushi.”

 

And with that, he was gone. Khushi wanted to go after Arnav, to stop him, to tell him she still cared for him and that she still wanted to be with him. But she knew she couldn’t do that.

Tears started falling, and Rohan pulled Khushi into a hug, holding her close to himself. Brushing him off, Khushi moved away from him and rushed into her bedroom, shutting the door behind herself. Throwing herself onto the bed, Khushi cried. Let it all out. This wasn’t fair. She had met someone she truly loved and who truly loved her too, but she couldn’t be with him. It wasn’t fair, this wasn’t how t was meant to be.

Khushi lay in bed, and she recalled all the moments she and Arnav had shared. She remembered all the kisses they had shared, the moment they had stolen during Payal and Akash’s wedding. She remembered their first night together, how gentle he’d been with her, how he kept making sure that she was okay, that this was still what she wanted.

Then she remembered their second night together. She remembered how she’d felt, being there below his body while he moved over her, kissing every inch of her body, touching her naked skin… She remembered how it had felt being so close to him, being one with him, having his body in hers…

Wiping her tears away, she forced herself to remember why they couldn’t be together, why she had made the decision to leave him. Yes it did change things, knowing that this was Akash’s plan and not Arnav’s. But Arnav should have said no from the start, he should have put his foot down because he knew it was wrong, morally, to do that to someone.

No, she couldn’t cry over not having Arnav any more. She wasn’t being fair on herself or Rohan. Rohan had accepted her, knowing everything about hers and Arnav’s relationship.

Wiping her tears away, Khushi sat up in bed and recalled everything that had happened when she arrived back in London.

 

*Flashback*

 

Arriving at Heathrow airport, Khushi pulled her sunglasses over her eyes to cover her puffy eyes. She had cried almost the entire flight, unable to understand how and why this was happening.

Once she collected her luggage and was ready to leave, she called for a taxi and went straight to her office.

The security team at the entrance of her office was the ones she was used to and they recognised her the moment they saw her and let her in.

Walking into the office, her assistant came rushing over to her.

 

“Ma’am! What are you doing here all of a sudden? But more importantly what’s happening with ownership? Apparently you have signed over all rights?”

“I need to talk to everyone from legal. Find out if they’re free and even if they aren’t arrange a meeting now.”

“Yes ma’am, but do you want to maybe freshen up first, you look exhausted.”

“Please just do as I’ve asked you to do.”

 

The assistant rushed off and Khushi made her way up to her office, greeting everyone politely as she passed them. Getting to her office, Khushi shut the door behind her before taking a look at herself in the mirror. She looked a wreck. Her eyes were bloodshot, her face dry and tired looking.

 

Sorting herself out a bit, she looked through the papers that Mohit had sent over to her, trying to find a loophole, something, anything that would help her get her business back. But she couldn’t find anything.

After waiting about half an hour, Khushi’s assistant reappeared, telling Khushi that he had managed to get a meeting sorted with the legal team and that it would take place in half an hours time.

Thanking him, Khushi dismissed him once more. Picking her phone up, she noticed that she had a tonne of missed calls and text messages from Arnav. She read the previews, but didn’t bother to open the messages. She didn’t have anything to say to him.

Sitting through the meeting with legal, it became clear very early on that nothing much could be done. They had gone through the papers in detail, trying to find anything that could help them, but it was clear that there wasn’t a lot that could be done.

When Khushi left the office, she felt completely deflated. She had hoped with all her heart that her legal time would be able to find something, anything. But it seemed as though if Arnav didn’t sign things over, she wouldn’t be able to get her business back.
Leaving the office, Khushi got another taxi to take her home. Getting to her house, she couldn’t help but feel broke. She hadn’t been home alone for years and now to come back home to an empty house, when she really needed her family was not ideal.

Once Khushi was home and she’d had some time to freshen up, she called the only person she could think of at that point. Rohan.

As soon as Khushi put the phone down from Rohan, he arrived. He came with food and some flowers. The moment he walked in through the door, Khushi embraced him.

 

“Khushi? What’s going on?”

 

Explaining everything that had happened, Khushi couldn’t contain her tears. She told Rohan everything, telling him everything that had happened from the start to the end.

 

“Wait, so you were in a relationship with him? Were you together when I met you guys at the conference?”

“No we got together right after.”

“I can’t believe he’d do that to you.”

“I’m sorry Rohan. I know… Us… We always said we’d get married. And I went and…”

“Sh, it’s okay. There’s nothing wrong with exploring your options. But I think it’s clear now that our Jodi was predetermined for a reason. We were meant to be Khushi. I know you’ve just got out of a serious relationship, but I want you to know, I still want to marry you… Maybe one day when you’re ready…”

“I can’t even think about that right now Rohan. It’s too soon.”

“I know, I know.”

 

Rohan dropped the topic of their marriage and Khushi too attempted to cheer herself up so she wouldn’t have to discuss the matter any further. It was too soon to even think about spending her life with someone else. Up until yesterday, she had felt her future with Arnav was set and now to have that taken away… It was too much at one time.

 

*****

 

Time flew by faster than Khushi realised. She’d been back in the U.K. for over 2 weeks and her parents were back too. She had received a number of calls and messages from the Raizada’s. She knew that she should probably call them back and talk to them, but she couldn’t bring herself to do it. Rohan had been a dream and had paid Khushi a number of visits to make sure that she was settling back okay.

It was one afternoon when she was scrolling through the news app when she saw the news about the management of AR and Khushiyan was changing. Tapping on the headline, Khushi opened up the full article and read that both business which had previously been under Mr Arnav Singh Raizada, was now being passed over to Mr Akash Singh Raizada. No formal statement about the change had yet been made.

When Khushi read this, she felt like the ground beneath her had been pulled away. She couldn’t understand why Arnav would do that. Why would he take her business from her, only to hand it, and his own business, over to his brother?

It didn’t make any sense, none of it made any sense. Throwing her phone onto the bed, Khushi realised that enough was enough. She was done with Arnav. He’d deceived her and used her love for his own personal gains and his own motives. She was done with him. It was then she made the most rash decision of her life…

 

*****

 

A couple of days later, Khushi and Rohan were engaged. It was a small affair, with just their parents and their immediate family present. They didn’t want anyone else.
Rohan had asked Khushi over and over again if she was sure, if this is what she really wanted and she had assured him that it was.

 

“Why avoid the inevitable, let’s just get it done.”

 

Rohan had been confused but he didn’t want to question it. He wanted to be with Khushi and if she had finally decided it was time to make their relationship official, then he wasn’t going to question her. Rohan could tell that Khushi’s heart hadn’t been in the right place on their engagement day, and he had asked her over and over to make sure she was okay. She said she was.

Their engagement went on without a hitch, and it wasn’t until late that night when she was back in her own bedroom did she realise what she had really done. She’d given herself to someone else, promised someone else that she would be their wife… But in her heart, she knew she belonged with Arnav…

 

*Flashback end*

 

Looking at the diamond ring on her finger, Khushi realised that she couldn’t allow herself to bask in the past. She had made the decision to marry Rohan, and she knew it was a decision that her parents supported her on. She couldn’t back down or fall weak now. She owed it to herself, her parents and Rohan to make this work. Brushing away her tears, Khushi decided that enough really was enough. It was time to move on. To close the Arnav related chapter of her life and to proceed with her new journey with Rohan.

It was time for a new beginning.