Pardesi Pyaar ~ Part 12

Arnav, Ajay and Khushi had all checked into the airport, and were waiting so that they could board their flight. Khushi had still felt upset when they had arrived at the airport, but was now starting to cheer up. She couldn’t wait to get back to India and meet the rest of Arnav’s family.

 

“I can’t wait for you to meet Di! I know for a fact that she is going to love you.”

“I really hope she does.”
“She will! The only person you really have to worry about is mom.”

“Why?”

“Because mom is picky as hell. When she buys something, she needs to look at it for a solid 2 hours after to make sure that it’s perfect, I have no doubt that she will do the same with you.”

 

The idea of Arnav’s mother looking at her in microscopic detail was one that made feel super nervous. What if his mother found a fault in her and said that Arnav couldn’t marry her? What would she do then?

An announcement overhead brought Khushi out of her thoughts. All passengers for their flight could now board the plane.

As the two Raizada’s and Khushi got to their feet, Arnav’s father addressed them both.

 

“So are you both going to be okay to get boarded and then to fly?”

“Of course we are dad!”

“Right then, I’m going to get myself boarded now.”

“Why don’t you wait with us, we can all go on together?”

 

Slapping his hand to his head, Ajay realised he forgot to mention something.

 

“I forgot to tell you, I’m flying business class. You both are just flying economy, so I need to get boarded now.”

“How come you get to fly business class?”

“Because I am a business man and I thought you and Khushi could do with some space.”

 

Arnav mumbled something about it would’ve been great if he and Khushi had been upgraded, but he let it go.

 

*****

 

Once on the plane and seated, Arnav checked out the inflight entertainment, while Khushi made sure she was as comfortable as possible. They were seated beside each other, and the seat next to Khushi was empty.

 

“I don’t think anyone is going to come and sit next to you.”

“That’s alright, it means we have some more space.”

 

Soon the flight was ready for take off. Arnav placed his hand in Khushi as they set off for taxi and didn’t let her go until they high in the sky.

 

“Are you excited about going back?”

“I am, but at the same time I’m not. I’m really, really going to miss Durban and Katie.”

 

Wrapping his arm around her, Arnav pulled Khushi into himself.

 

“Once the wedding plans start moving forward, we can invite Katie and her family to stay with us. We’ll invite them early so they can stay for a long time.”

“Thank you so much for understanding.”

 

Pressing a kiss onto her forehead, Arnav moved back slightly and started fiddling with the TV. They began watching a film, forgetting all about any concerns they may have and just enjoyed each other’s company.

 

*****

 

“Ah, there you two are. I was worried I wasn’t going to be able to find you you again.”

“This is why you shouldn’t have left us dad.”

 

Ajay chuckled as he made his way over to luggage claim. They waited around for their luggage, while Ajay turned his phone back on.

 

“Shyam and Akash are waiting for us at arrivals.”

 

Arnav nodded and turned his attention back to the carousal. He saw his and Khushi’s bags coming so he took them down and then they waiting for his fathers.

 

“Who’s Shyam and who is Akash?”

“Haven’t I told you who’s who yet”

 

Shaking her head, Khushi looked up, waiting for him to explain.

 

“Shyam is my jijaji. Anjali Di’s husband. And Akash is my cousin, my mama jis son.”

“Oh okay. I want to have a rough idea of who is in your family so I don’t look completely dumb when I meet them.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll introduce you to everyone properly as you meet them.”

“I really, really hope that everyone likes me.”

“You won dad over and in the same way I know you’ll win everyone else over.”

 

She hoped so. The last thing she wanted was to not be accepted by Arnav’s family. She wanted everyone to like her and accept her.

 

*****

 

“Saale Saab!”

 

Arnav’s head snapped up as he followed the sound of the voice. There jumping up and down slightly, he saw his brother in law and his cousin. Seeing them, Arnav felt like a kid again and rushed towards them, giving each a hug.

 

“Jijaji! Akash! How are you guys? I’ve missed you so much!”

“We’ve missed you too bhai!”

 

Walking over with Khushi, Ajay laughed. Shyam leaned down to touch his father in laws feet and Akash did the same.

 

“God bless you boys. I bet you’re all happy to be back together again.”

 

Turning to Khushi he carried on.

 

“These three are like the three musketeers. They do everything together. After Anjali and Shyam got married, the three of them even went to the extent to occasionally falling asleep in the same room. It’s impossible to get them away from each other.”

 

Arnav stepped in at this point and took Khushi’s hand.

 

“Jijaji, Akash, this is Khushi. Khushi, this is my Jiju and this is my brother Akash.”

 

Both men politely greeted Khushi and she did the same in return.

 

“It’s great to finally meet you. Our groupchat has been all about you recently. Arnav can’t seem to talk about thing else.”

 

Blushing, Khushi hid her face slightly in Arnav’s arm.

 

“Aw look, they look so cute together. Rani Sahiba is so excited to meet Khushi. So we really should get going.”

 

Grabbing hold of all their luggage, everyone made their way down to the car park and bundled into the car. Once in the car, they were ready for the off.

 

“Boys, please drop me off at the office. I have some urgent business that’s waiting for me.”

“But babuji, maaji is going to be so mad if we don’t take you home with us.”

“Don’t worry Daamand ji, she’s going to have Khushi to keep her busy. Khushi bitya, I’m sorry to had to do this, but you’re going to have to deal with your saas on your own today.”

 

Eyes widening, Khushi looked to Arnav. What did they mean she’d have to deal with her? What was she going to do?

 

“You guys! Stop scaring Khushi.”

 

Arnav placed an arm around Khushi and squeezed her hand reassuringly.

 

“You don’t need to be afraid of Ma. She’s going to love you.”

“What if she doesn’t?”

 

The men in the car all froze, realising that their words had been successful in frightening Khushi. Akash turned around.

 

“Don’t worry bhabi. We’re all messing with you. Buaji has been super excited to meet you herself. She’s not going to not like you. You don’t even have to worry about that.”

 

Feeling slightly better, Khushi relaxed and sat back, still holding on to Arnav. She thought about everything they’d said and her mind played on what Arnav’s father had said. He’d referred to Arnav’s mother as her saas and Akash had called her bhabi. It seemed as thought they had all accepted her already and she couldn’t help but feel glad. She didn’t want any issues, and she didn’t want to have to deal with anyone disliking her. So far, it seemed that she was off to a great start and she prayed that this remained the case.

 

“Trust me, they’re all going to love you Khushi. Just like I do.”

Pardesi Pyaar ~ Part 11

“I can’t believe you’re leaving, I’m going to miss you so much.”

“I’m going to miss you too. But Katie, don’t miss me too much. You’re coming to India soon and when me and Arnav get married, you have to be there! No matter what happens.”

“I’ll be there Khushi. I promise, I wouldn’t miss your wedding for the world.”

 

Hugging Katie, Khushi finally let the tears she’d been holding back flow. She couldn’t believe that she was leaving and that she was going back to India. And not just going back, but going back with Arnav, to his home, where his family all were

 

“Are you feeling nervous?”

“Very nervous. Katie, I don’t know how I’m going to deal with this.”

“Don’t worry Khushi, as soon as wedding talk starts happening, you call me and me, Karl and my parents will be there. Do you think we’re going to let you get married without having a girls side for all the ceremonies. Plus I’ve never been to an Indian wedding so none of us would miss anything for the world.”

 

Katie’s parents came out of the kitchen and her mother handed her a large bag.

 

“Food for the road. Take care dear, it’s been a pleasure having you here.”

“Thank you for having me aunty. It means so much.”

 

Hugging Katie’s mum, Khushi couldn’t really believe her luck. She’d come to South Africa to get an education and in return, she had found herself a family. She may not have been the luckiest person in terms of having her own family, but in turn, god gave her Katie and her lovely family.

Katie’s father came forward next.

 

“Like your aunty said, it really has been lovely having you around. You really have become our second daughter. I know you’ve only been living with us for a short time, but since you first came to Durban, it’s been nice to see you whenever you came with Katie. You really have become a part of our family.”

 

The tears which Khushi had been trying to suppress came tumbling out. She really was blessed. Taking hold of Khushi’s hand, Katie’s father handed her a small pile of money. Khushi looked at it, her eyes wide.

 

“Uncle…”

“Don’t say no dear. It’s not a lot and I know you have your own money, but consider this a gift from us, to congratulate you on your marriage.”

“It’s still a lot…”

“If your father handed you this money, you wouldn’t say no, so consider me your father and don’t say no.”

 

Closing her hand around the money, Khushi hugged Katie’s father.

 

“Thank you so much.”

 

Breaking the hug, Khushi looked at Katie’s family.

 

“Thank you so much. For everything, I can’t even begin to tell you how much you all mean to me.” You have done so much for me, I will never stop being grateful and I will never forget. Please, please come to my wedding, you are the only family I have, and it won’t feel right to get married without you all there.”

 

Katie came forward again and hugged Khushi tight. She was crying too now, she never thought she’d have to let go of Khushi so soon, but she knew that this day was going to come one day.

Wiping away Katie’s tears she looked at her friend.

 

“Please don’t cry. We’re going to be back together very soon and I’ll talk to you all the time any way.”

“I know, but I’ve got so used to living with you, I’m going to miss you so much when you’re not here any more.”

“I’m going to miss you too.”

 

They held each other and cried. Khushi had many friends when she was at uni but she had never made a friend like Katie who became like a sister. Katie too had never made friends with anyone whom she loved as much as she loved Khushi. They continued hugging and then the doorbell went off. Katie broke the hug and went running to the door.

Throwing the door open, there stood Arnav and his father, ready to take Khushi.

 

“Hi Arnav! Mr Raizada, please come in.”

 

Walking in, Katie gestured for them to take a seat as Katie’s mother went to get some refreshments for the Raizada.

 

*****

 

After the Raizada’s had spent a little bit of time with Katie and her family, they realised that it was time to leave, otherwise they wouldn’t be able to catch their flight. Khushi felt her heart breaking. She didn’t want to leave, but she wanted to go with Arnav. It was so hard, she hated what she was feeling.

Embracing Katie’s family again, it was time for Khushi to leave. Tears were shed all round. Ajay Singh Raizada extended a further invitation to Katie’s family so that they could all come to the wedding.

Katie helped Khushi to bring her bags out. Arnav grabbed hold of Khushi’s bags as he began to leave with them while Khushi said her final goodbye.

 

“This isn’t goodbye. You guys are definitely going to have to come to my wedding. If you don’t, relation over, I’ll never speak to you guys again. And I won’t get married!”

 

Laughing, Katie’s father placed his hand on Khushi’s shoulder and reassured her that they wouldn’t miss her wedding for the world.

Finally ready to leave, Khushi picked up her hand luggage and made her way over to the door and exited the house. She reached Arnav’s car and then turned, blew Katie a final kiss and then got into the car, ready to go to the airport and start a new chapter of her life.

 

Pardesi Pyaar ~ Part 10

Rushing around, Khushi was making sure that she looked presentable and that her bag was ready with all her things in. Katie was sat on the sofa, watching Khushi run around.

 

“Calm down will you.”

“I can’t calm down. Arnav will be here any moment.”

“Khushi! Breathe!”

 

Before Khushi could respond to Katie, there was a knock on the door.

 

“He’s here! Oh my god oh my god, what am I going to do now?”

“Open the door for starters.”

 

Throwing her friend a glare, Khushi went to open to door. Pulling the door back, she saw Arnav, dressed in a casual sweat shirt and jeans. He leaned in and placed a quick kiss on Khushi’s lips, before coming into the house.

 

“Ready to go?”

“I’m so nervous, I don’t know if I can do this.”

 

Taking her hands in his, Arnav tried to calm Khushi’s nerves.

 

“You have nothing to worry about, I’m sure my dad is going to love you.”

“But what if he doesn’t?”

“He will Khushi, I know he will. He won’t be able to find any fault with you at all.”

“Are you sure?”

 

Pressing another kiss on her lips, he wrapped his arm around her waist.

 

“I’m positive.”

“Is my outfit okay?”

 

Arnav looked down at Khushi, taking in her attire. She had picked out a relatively plain pink anarkali suit. It highlighted her figure, clinging to her curves just right.

 

“You look perfect. Shall we go?”

 

Nodding, Khushi said bye to Katie and her parents and then left.

 

*****

 

On their way to Arnav’s house, Khushi knotted her hands in her lap. Arnav placed his hand over Khushi’s.

 

“Don’t be nervous.”

“What if your dad doesn’t like me?”

“He will do.”

 

Arnav carried on driving until they reached the block of apartments where he and his father were living. Arnav parked up and helped Khushi out of the car.

 

“It’ll be fine Khushi, don’t worry,”

 

Putting his hand in hers, he led her over to the door and they entered and made their way to the Raizada apartment. Once they arrived at the door, Arnav unlocked it and walked in.

 

“Dad, we’re here.”

 

Exiting the kitchen, Ajay Singh Raizada walked towards Khushi and his son. As soon as Khushi saw him, she put her hands together and greeted him.

 

“Namaste Mr Raizada.”

“Please, just call me uncleji.”

 

Ushering Khushi to sit down, Khushi took a seat and Ajay sat down opposite her. Arnav took his seat next to Khushi.

 

“Don’t sit down, go and get this lovely young lady something to drink.”

 

Nodding Arnav got up, ignoring Khushi’s protest for him not too. Ajay watched his son go towards the kitchen and leaned forward in his chair.

 

“So Khushi, please tell me a little about yourself.”

“Well my name is Khushi Kumari Gupta, I’m 23 years old and I’m originally from Lucknow.”

“You’re still only 23? And you’ve already completely your masters.”

“Jee haan. I would’ve completed it last year, but I took a year out to travel.”

“That’s impressive Khushi. Very impressive, you have achieved a lot at such a young age.”

 

Blushing, Khushi looked away.

 

“Arnav told me you don’t have any family, I’m sorry to hear that.”

“It’s okay, no one can change things how they are.”

“So in India, how do you live?”

“I have been working for as long as I can remember. I don’t spend a lot of money on myself, so I can put a lot of the money towards somewhere small to live and for basic necessities.”

 

At this point, Arnav came back into the room with tea for all three of them. Handing his father his tea, he sat back down next to Khushi.

 

“When do you plan to go back to India?”

“I’m not sure yet. I was planning to go back almost as soon as graduation had happened, but then my friend asked me to stay with her and now her family want me to stay with them indefinitely. They have been very accommodating, however, I know I need to go back to India soon.”

 

Nodding, Ajay stroked his beard. So far he was impressed with Khushi. She had achieved a lot for herself and she was a beautiful girl. He could see why Arnav was so taken by her.

 

“Dad, I want to be with Khushi and I think she wants to be with me too. Please bless us.”

 

Turning back to Khushi, Ajay asked the question he’d been waiting to ask.

 

“Do you want to be with my son too?”

 

Looking between Arnav and his father, Khushi blushed before looking down and nodding.

 

“I have nothing against Khushi. From what I have seen and heard, you seem to be the kind of girl that would be ideal for our family. You have my blessings children.”

 

Arnav got to his feet and went over to his father and touched his feet. Ajay blessed his son, just as Khushi was also getting up and coming forward to touch his feet. Ajay stopped her.

 

“From now, you are my daughter, and daughters do not need to touch their fathers feet.”

 

Tears of joy filled Khushi’s eyes as Ajay Singh Raizada got to his feet and hugged his soon to be daughter in law.

 

“Acha, you two sit and talk, let me go and call your mother and tell her the good news.”

 

Leaving Arnav and Khushi, Ajay went towards his bedroom.
Pulling Khushi into his arms, Arnav kissed the top of her head.

 

“I told you you had nothing to worry about. I told you you were the perfect woman for me.”

 

Wrapping his arms around her, Arnav took Khushi’s lips between his and kissed her passionately. Khushi felt uncomfortable at first, on account of the fact that Arnav’s father was so close by and could walk in on them at any moment, however soon she too got swept away with the kiss.

They pulled away moments later and heard Ajay coming back into the living room.

 

“I have spoken to your mother Arnav, and she has said that if you have chosen someone and if I approve, then she doesn’t see why she would have any reason to object.”

 

Arnav knew it, he knew his parents would’ve be able to find any fault with Khushi.

 

“She also wants us to wrap everything up here as soon as possible so that we can go back to India. With Khushi. I have told her that we will be able to leave by the end of the week.”

 

Eyes wide, Khushi took in what was being said. She would soon be leaving South Africa. She would soon be going back to India, with Arnav to meet the rest of his family. Khushi felt slightly light headed, was she really ready for all this?

Pardesi Pyaar ~ Part 8

Parking up in front of a large hotel, Khushi and Katie looked up in awe.

 

“Surprise ladies, we’re having dinner here tonight.”

“Karl, this place is super expensive.”

“Why have money if you’re not going to spend it on the people that matter to you right. Now stop worrying and let’s go enjoy.”

 

Getting out of the car, Karl led Katie and Khushi in. At the door, he stated that he had a reservation at the restaurant. The waiter led them in and sat them down at their table.

 

“Karl, really…”

“Don’t even worry about it.”

 

Katie placed her hand in Karl’s and Khushi couldn’t help but smile. Karl and Katie may not be official and they may not have been together long, but there was no denying that they shared something special. It was evident in the way that they looked at each other. Khushi couldn’t help but wonder if her and Arnav had something like that. Shaking her head, she pushed thoughts of Arnav away.

After a while, a waiter arrived with menus and left them to decide what to eat. Karl was just recommending some dishes to the girls when a voice interrupted them.

 

“Karl? Khushi? Katie? What are you guys doing here?”

 

Karl laughed and got to his feet as he hugged Arnav. Khushi started at Katie in disbelief. This had to have been a plan. Leaning over to Katie she whispered angrily.

 

“You knew about this didn’t you?”

“I promise I didn’t.” Katie feigned innocence and to her joy, Khushi seemed to believe her. “Just relax.”

 

Karl invited Arnav to have some food with them. Arnav insisted that he had to go, but Karl remained adamant and Arnav gave in. Khushi still believed that this was all a ploy, but Arnav and Karl seemed to be genuine and Katie seemed to be unaware. Maybe it was just a coincidence.

Arnav turned to Khushi and smiled.

 

“Hey.”

“Hi.”

“You haven’t been returning any of my calls.”

“I’m sorry, I’ve just been busy with moving out and then moving in again.”

“Maybe we can talk after getting some food.”

 

Nodding in a dismissive manner, Arnav knew Khushi had no intention of speaking to him after dinner, but he knew that she couldn’t avoid him for much longer. Enough was enough.

 

*****

 

Dinner was ordered and the food arrived a little while later. The food was good and everyone enjoyed it. Pleasantries were exchanged over dinner, all the while the tension between Arnav and Khushi continued to brew until it was almost tangible by all the people sat at the table.

Once everyone was done with dinner, Karl paid the bill and got to his feet and held his hand out to Katie.

 

“Were just going out to the car to talk for a little while. Can you guys maybe come and join us a little while later?”

 

Arnav smirked, knowing full well what Karl’s intentions were.

 

“You guys take your time and have some fun, I can drop Khushi off home.”

“Are you sure?”

“I have no issue, Khushi you?”

 

Looking between Karl and Katie, it was evident that they were desperate for some alone time. But did she really want to be left alone with Arnav?

 

“Yeah it’s fine, you guys go, Arnav can drop me off.”

 

Throwing Khushi an appreciative smile, Katie grabbed her bag.

 

“I’ll see you at home.”

 

Placing his hand on the small of her back, Karl led Katie out of the dining area of the hotel and Khushi watched as they exited the building.

 

“So… Can we talk?”

“Here?”

“Maybe we can go upstairs?”

“I’d rather not.”

“Okay, so how about we go and sit and talk in my car?”

 

Thinking about it for a moment, Khushi agreed and they got ready to leave. Arnav led Khushi over to his car, and like a gentlemen opened the door for her.

Once inside, they both settled down before Arnav turned to her and got down to business.

 

“So how have you been?”

“I’ve been okay, just busy, you?”

“Same. Look Khushi, I know you weren’t 100% comfortable with what went down between us that night but I really like you and I feel like you’re shutting me out.”

“I’m not! I told you, I’ve just been busy.”

“So busy you couldn’t even reply to one text in 2 weeks? What’s the real issue here Khushi?”

“I’m just not comfortable okay.”

“No, that’s not okay. I mean it is, I can understand your discomfort, but why do I feel like that’s not all?”

 

Arnav’s eyes bore into Khushi’s, staring her down, looking into her soul.

 

“There’s nothing else.”

 

Taking her hand into his, Arnav forced her to look at him.

 

“Khushi, I really like you. I’ve never felt so strongly about someone before and I know there’s something going on in your head. If you don’t talk to me about it, how can we work through things. Or do you not feel that strongly about me? Is that it? Do you not like me as much as I thought you did? Because if you don’t that’s fine.”

 

Was he feeling insecure? Khushi felt slightly taken aback. Was Arnav, Arnav Singh Raizada feeling insecure? Was he actually doubting how much she liked him.

 

“Please Khushi, tell me.”

 

He looked so sad, so confused and she couldn’t resist him.

 

“I just… I don’t think we’re right for each other.”

 

Arnav sat up a little straighter. What? He wasn’t expecting that.

 

“What do you mean?”

“I mean, I don’t think I’m the type of girl you’d want.”

“What the hell are you saying?”

“Were from completely different worlds. I don’t think it would ever work between us.”

“Khushi, I really am at a loss here, I have no idea what you mean.”

“I mean, you’re Arnav! Arnav Singh Raizada! You and your family are rich. Richer than rich! And then me, little me, I’m a nobody. I barely have two coins to rub together to produce heat. We’re so different, I don’t think, in the long term, it would work between us.”

 

Now Arnav was really confused. She thought they weren’t right for each other because of status. Really?

 

“Is that what you think of me?”

“What do you mean?”
“Do you think I’m that fickle that your background and your financial status matter to me?”

“Maybe it doesn’t now, but…”

“You think you’re not right for me because you don’t have as much money as me?”

“I’m an orphan…”

“So? What’s your point?”

“My point is…”

“You don’t have a damn point Khushi! What has having a family and not having a family got anything to do with how we feel about each other. I know it’s hard being you, I understand that and we’re you come from. But I like you because you’re you, the person you are. I don’t care if you have a family or not, or if you have money or not. Is that how little you think of me?”

 

Tears pricked in Khushi’s eyes, she really blew it this time. Arnav saw this and tried to swallow his anger down a little. Lifting her chin with his finger, he turned her to face him.

 

“Khushi, I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have got so angry. I really like you, I might even be falling in love with you. I just want you to know none of those things matter to you, I just want to be with you.”

 

Touching her face gently, Arnav leaned in. Khushi’s eyes fluttered shut as she moved in a tiny bit. Their lips connected and Arnav’s eye shut. Cupping her face, Arnav moved closer, intensifying the kiss. Khushi rested one hand on his chest and moved the other up to his cheek. Tears rolled down Khushi’s cheek and Arnav brushed them away, all the while pulling her closer to himself.

 

*****

 

After kissing intensely for a while, they finally pulled away from each other. Their eyes opened slowly and Khushi blushed and looked down.

Arnav smirked, running a hand through his hair.

 

“So… Where do we go from here?”

“I don’t know…”

“Khushi, maybe we can date for a while and see where things go.”

“I’d like that.”

 

Leaning back in, he placed a quick kiss on her lips. Things were finally looking up, maybe they could find a way to make this work out.

Pardesi Pyaar ~ Part 7

A phone began ringing and Khushi crawled under the covers. Who was calling her so early in the morning? Suddenly the ringing stopped and someone answered the phone.

 

“Good morning….. Yes we’ll be down, ready to leave in a bit…. Thank you.”

 

Khushi crawled out from under the covers only to be met with the dark eyes of Arnav.

 

“Morning.”

 

Rubbing her face, Khushi tried to remember the night before. Why was she waking up in the same room as Arnav. Then it all suddenly came back to her.

 

“Oh my god.”

 

Hiding her face with the covers, Khushi cringed as she remembered her behaviour from the night before. Arnav chuckled and came to sit down beside her.

 

“It’s okay.”

“I’m so embarrassed. I behaved so badly.”

“It’s okay, you were nervous and had too much to drink, happens to the best of us.”

“I’m so sorry.”

“Really Khushi, its fine, don’t worry about it.”

 

Coming out from under the covers once more, Khushi looked down at herself. She maybe disheveled, but she was still fully dressed. Arnav noticed this.

 

“Don’t worry, nothing like that happened between us. After you passed out, I tucked you into bed and then I fell asleep myself on the sofa.”

“Thank you for taking such good care of me.”

“I meant what I said to you last night Khushi, I do care about you, and I do really like you. Any way, you get ready, the reception just called to say that we need to leave the room within the hour otherwise we have to pay for another day.”

 

Nodding, Khushi started getting out of bed.

 

“I’ll wait for you downstairs at reception.”

 

Arnav left the room and Khushi sat in bed, remembering the night before. She’d behaved so badly, so unlike herself. Shaking her head, Khushi got out of bed and went into the shower.

 

*****

 

Arnav and Khushi were in the car, making their way back to the campus. Khushi remained silent the whole way, she didn’t know what to say, she felt so embarrassed. Arnav tried to talk to her, tried to ease the mood, but she wasn’t in the mood to talk. Pulling her phone out of her bag, Khushi saw a whole tonne of messages and missed calls from Katie.

 

“Shit.”

“What’s wrong?”

“Katie.”
“Oh don’t worry, after you went to sleep, I called Karl and told him you were with me. He took Katie home, don’t worry, she knows your safe.”

“Thank you so much.”

“Don’t mention it, its fine.”

 

The drive back to campus took place in silence. No matter what Khushi said, she still felt uncomfortable about how things had played out last night.

 

*****

 

Once they got back to campus, Arnav parked the car and took his key out of the ignition.

 

“Can I walk you back to your place?”

“Thank you for the offer but no thanks.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, but thanks for everything.”

“No problem.”

 

Smiling, Khushi turned away and unlocked the door and got out. She said goodbye and then was on her way back towards her home.

 

*****

 

“What the hell khushi! You know I was so worried about you right?”

 

Throwing herself onto their sofa, Khushi covered her face with a pillow. Katie came and sat down beside her.

 

“Hey what’s wrong?”

 

Explaining the events of the night before, Khushi hid her face feeling ashamed at herself.

 

“Oh Khush, it’s really not that bad.”

“I can’t face him again Katie, I behaved so badly.”

“I know you feel awkward, but he seemed okay did he? And he stayed by you the whole night. So really, you should just let yourself learn from the events and move on.”

 

Listening to Katie, Khushi knew that she had a point, but she didn’t feel as though she could face Arnav again any time soon. Khushi decided that maybe it would be best to just avoid him for a while, just until it’s not as embarrassing to think about how she had acted.

 

*****

 

“Khushi, can you answer your god damn phone, otherwise I’m throwing it out of the window.”

 

Picking the phone up, Khushi muted it and then put it down again so it could ring on in silence.

Two weeks had passed since graduation and in that time, Khushi and Katie had moved out of their campus home and into Katie’s family home. Khushi had insisted that she would find herself somewhere to stay, but Katie and her parents said that Khushi had to stay with them. There was no point worrying about a house or a flat when she didn’t plan on staying in Durban much longer. In those two weeks, Khushi had gotten accustomed to living with Katie’s family and they too loved having her around. She’d become one of the family and everyone forgot that there was ever a time when Khushi didn’t live with them.

 

“Will you please just talk to him. He’s getting desperate, he calls at least 3 times a day.”

“I’ll speak to him when I’m ready to Kay.”

“But Khushi! It’s been 2 weeks, surely you’re both over what happened.”

 

Shaking her head, Khushi grabbed her phone and her laptop and went into the living room.

Moments later, Katie’s own phone buzzed. Picking it up, she realised it was a text from Karl.

Katie and Karl had spent their entire night together on graduation and had really enjoyed each other’s company. Since graduation they had spent a fair amount of time together and were in the stage where they were technically dating, but it wasn’t yet official as such.

Katie opened her text from Karl and replied.

He didn’t reply and say what his plan was, but Katie knew that Karl meant business.

 

“Khushi! Get ready, we’re going out.”

“Where are we going?”

“Wait and watch!”

 

Coming back into the room, Khushi raised her eyebrow, waiting for an answer.

 

“Tell me now, otherwise we aren’t going anywhere.”

“Karl texted, he’s taking us out.”

“He’s taking you out.”

“No he’s taking both of us out. You’re not going to be here much longer and he wants to get to know you as well as he can before he goes. So he’s taking us both out.”

“And Arnav?”

“He didn’t say anything about Arnav so I don’t think he’ll be there.”

“Make sure Arnav isn’t going to be there and then I’ll come with you.”

 

Katie rolled her eyes and pretended to text Karl and to wait for his response. After about 5 minutes of pretending, she announced that Arnav wouldn’t be there. Khushi agreed to go out with them.

 

*****

 

When Karl arrives, Khushi and Katie are ready to go. Like a gentleman, he opens the doors of the car letting them in.

 

“So Karl, where are we going today?”

“Wait and see ladies, wait and see. I’ve got lots of fun waiting for you both.”

 

Katie giggled as she clipped her seatbelt and Khushi looked down at her phone biting her lip. Why did she have such a bad feeling about this?

Pardesi Pyaar ~ Part 6

Arnav, Khushi, Karl and Katie all walked into the hotel where the after party was being held. The majority of their class mates were already there but there was still more people to come.

Karl offered Katie his arm and they left Arnav and Khushi.

 

“If you need either of us just call, otherwise, enjoy you’re not.”

 

They walked away. Khushi turned to Arnav and smiled.

 

“So…”

“So… Erm do you want to get a drink?”

 

Now, Khushi wasn’t one to usually drink, however, she was feeling super nervous. One drink wouldn’t do any harm, it would just help her to calm her nerves.

 

“Can I just have a white wine.”

“Yeah sure.”

 

Arnav ordered Khushi’s wine, and got himself a beer. He wasn’t much of a drinker himself but he didn’t want Khushi to feel uncomfortable drinking on her own.

The bartender handed their drinks over and they took a seat on the bar stools. Khushi took a little sip of her drink. She didn’t like the taste, however it did make her feel warm inside.

 

“You look beautiful tonight.”

“Thank you, you look really good too.”

 

The music around them was loud and the room was dim. Arnav leaned in close to Khushi and they spoke about their plans for where they were going next in life.

 

“I’m probably going to stay here for a few weeks with my dad and then I think I’m going to go back to India. You?”

“I think I’m going to stay but then I want to go back, I miss being back in India.”

“I’m sure you do. Your family must be missing you too.”

 

The mention of family caught Khushi off guard. She took another long sip of her wine.

 

“I don’t have any family.”

“What do you mean?”

“I’m an orphan.”

 

Arnav felt momentarily stumped. He didn’t know what to say.

 

“I’m so sorry, I didn’t know.”

“It’s alright, I never told you so, it’s not your fault.”

“Do you want to talk about it?”

“Not really.”

 

Arnav didn’t want to press the matter. It was obvious she didn’t want to talk about it. Maybe in time she would open up, but right now, she didn’t and he didn’t want to force her. Khushi carried on sipping on her wine until it was all gone. Arnav had barely touched his beer, but he was glad that Khushi hadn’t noticed.

 

“Do you want to dance?”

 

Nodding, Khushi got to her feet and Arnav off his. He offered her his hand and led her to the dance floor. Between the time that they had arrived and now, the dance floor had really filled up, with most people on it, dancing, laughing, enjoying themselves.

 

“I wonder where Katie and Karl got to?”

“Did you know, Karl has a huge crush on Katie.”

“He does?!”

“Yeah he does. Do you think Katie will like him back?”

“I’m not sure, I mean she hadn’t dated a lot of people since I’ve known her so I don’t really know.”

“Well I hope it works out for them, he’s really into her.”

 

Arnav held Khushi close as they talked and danced. Arnav let his hand brush over Khushi’s exposed arm. Sparks flew between both of them, the touch was electrifying. She should have taken a step back, but instead Khushi took a step forward, getting even closer to Arnav.

He wrapped his arm around he waist, pulling her closer to himself. Khushi closed her eyes as she leaned into Arnav, her face resting on his chest.

She knew she shouldn’t get this close, but the feeling of his arm around her waist and his hand on her body did something to her and Khushi wanted to get as much of it as she could before she had to let go. Arnav kissed the top of Khushi’s head and she looked up, eyes wide.

 

“I… I don’t know why I did that, it was an impulsive move I didn’t even…”

 

Before Arnav could proceed with his apology, Khushi had leaned in and pressed her lips against his. Arnav was shocked and for a moment stood her, not knowing what to do. Then his eyes closed to and he slipped into the moment and kissed her back. It was a light kiss, nothing heavy, no opened mouthed, no tongues and it only lasted for a very short amount of time before Khushi came to her senses and realised what she’d done.

Pulling away, Khushi gasped and raised her hands to her lips.

 

“I’m so sorry, I don’t even know what came over me.”

“It’s okay.”

“Arnav I…”

“Really, its fine.”

 

They both stood there, taking a step back from their close embrace when Arnav’s phone began to ring. He pulled it out of his pocket and was about to let the phone go to voicemail when he saw that it was his dad.

 

“I’m so sorry, but I have to take this, it’s my dad.”

“Oh yeah sure, go ahead.”

 

Arnav weaved his way off the dance floor and went outside so that he could take his call. Khushi thanked the stars because she felt things becoming a little awkward. What was she thinking? Why did she kiss him like that? Khushi shook her head and made her way over to the bar where she asked for another glass of wine.

She still didn’t like the taste, but Khushi downed the glass in one go and then asked for another. The alcohol in her body made her feel warm and made her feel that tiny bit more confident and she needed that right now, especially after the moment she and Arnav had just shared.

Arnav came back a few minutes later and found Khushi hovering by the bar.

 

“Is everything okay?”

“Yeah, my dad was just needed me to send something to Di, it’s all good, you okay?”

“Yeah, yeah I’m great! Can we dance some more?”

“Sure.”

 

Taking Khushi’s hand, he led her back onto the dance floor. The music was fast and everyone around them was getting super intimate with their dancing. The boys had their hands all over the girls and the girls were all up against the guys. Khushi was so glad she had decided to drink the extra wine.

They got onto the dance floor and began to move. Arnav wrapped an arm around her waist once more and Khushi wrapped her arms around his neck. They moved in time with the music, Arnav letting his hands travel along her body, feeling her curves.

 

“I really want to kiss you.”

“Then kiss me.”

 

Arnav leaned in and kissed Khushi, her lips parted and he placed his between hers. Khushi’s hold on Arnav tightened as he felt along her body, letting his lips caress hers. His hands were playing havoc on her skin and Khushi could feel all kind of sensations within her. She ground her body against his, making him intensify the kiss. Their bodies rocked into each other, imitating a much more intimate game.
Arnav came up for air and ran his hand along Khushi’s face.

 

“Let’s go upstairs?”

“What’s upstairs?”

“Rooms.”

 

Nodding, Arnav led Khushi off the dance floor and they made their way over to reception and booked themselves a room. The way up to the room was filled with sexual tension. They wanted to get back onto each other, but both resisted the urge until they got into the privacy of a room.

Once in the room, Arnav pressed Khushi up against the door and let his hands touch her once more before pressing his lips onto hers. His tongue caressed her lips, asking for entrance and Khushi parted her lips for him. They deepened the kiss and Arnav’s hands slid up to Khushi neck, holding her close. Khushi’s hands slid under Arnav’s shirt, touching his abs. Pulling her hands out from under his shirt, Khushi started fumbling with the buttons on Arnav’s shirt. Taking the buttons off, one at a time, Khushi let her fingers touch the skin she was exposing.

Arnav broke the kiss and took a step back.

 

“Aren’t we going too fast?”

 

Shaking her head, Khushi stepped back up to Arnav and kissed him ones more. Her hands pushed his shirt away and let her hands run over the planes of his muscular back and Arnav let himself pull down the zip of Khushi’s dress. Khushi moved closer to him, pushing him back until the back of his knees hit the edge of the bed. Arnav fell back, pulling Khushi down with him. He flipped her, so she was below him as he kissed her neck. Khushi moaned out and wrapped her arms around his neck, grinding her body against his. Enjoying what was happening, Arnav almost let himself get carried away, his fingers sliding under her dress, but then he came to his senses. Getting to his feet, he looked down at her for a moment before picking his shirt up. Khushi opened her eyes.

 

“What’s wrong Arnav?”

“We can’t do this.”

 

Getting to her feet, Khushi straightened her dress out and moved closer to him.

 

“I think I’m falling in love with you Arnav.”

“We’ve just met, this is too soon and Khushi, I think you’re slightly drunk.”

“I only had a couple of glasses of wine.”

“I know… But for now I think you just need to rest.”

“But I want you… I want do things with you.”

“And trust me Khushi, I want to do things with you as well, like really really want to. But not right now.”

“Don’t you like me?”

“I do! And trust me I really want to do what you want to do. But I don’t want to take advantage of you while you’re slightly tipsy.”

“But you wouldn’t be taking advantage of me, I know what I want.”

“I just want you to be 100% and I don’t think you are right now.”

 

Taking a step away from him, Khushi felt her cheeks burning due to embarrassment. She’d put herself on a plate for him and he was saying no?

But before Khushi could think further on the matter, she felt light headed and everything around her went dark.

Pardesi Pyaar ~ Part 5

Graduation day had arrived and Khushi and Katie were at their home getting ready. Katie was curling her hair to perfection, whereas Khushi was making sure that her dress was just right.

 

“Are you sure it isn’t too short.”

“It’s fine! I asked some of the other girls what they were wearing and the length of your dress isn’t going to be an issue at all.”

“I really would prefer to wear something a bit longer.”

“Khush, you won’t even be able to see your dress under your robes and after graduation we’re going after party and the shorter the better right!”

 

Rolling her eyes, Khushi turned away and pulled her dress down that little bit more. She was used to wearing short dresses, but she just felt a bit self conscious today because she knew that should would be meeting up with Arnav after.

 

“Have you spoken to him?”

“Yeah he texted me last night and he said we’ll meet after the graduation ceremony.”

 

Making sure that they looked perfect and their hair was in place, Khushi and Katie grabbed their bags and left for their graduation.

 

*****

 

Taking their places, the graduation ceremony began. As Khushi was sitting down, she saw Arnav sitting a couple of rows in front of her. Arnav too saw her and gave her a little wave before he turned around and sat back down. Khushi couldn’t help but smile, she loved how he noticed her. She knew it wasn’t a big deal, but something about it just made her feel so warm and special. Like she mattered to him, like they may actually share something special and precious.

 

The ceremony began, and one course at a time, the class of 2017 graduated from their masters programmes. They went in alphabetical order of the courses so Arnav graduated before Khushi. When his name was called for him to collect his diploma, a number of people whooped for him and Khushi and Katie made sure they clapped extra loudly for him.

Arnav walked across the stage and joined his classmates. When every last member of the business class graduated, they left the stage and made their way back to their seats.

A little while later, it was time for Khushi and her literatature class to graduate. Just like with Arnav’s class, Khushi’s class took to the stage, one by one and collected their diplomas. When Khushi collected her diploma and walked across the stage, Arnav cheered for her and Khushi blushed a deep shade of red. She reached the rest of her classmates and waited as the rest of them too collected their diplomas.

Once everyone from the literature class had collected their diplomas, the audience cheered for them as they took their seats once more.

One by one everyone in the auditorium collected their diplomas until everyone in the room who was to collect their diploma, had collected their diploma.

 

“And that concludes the graduation ceremony for the class of 2017!”

 

The graduates all took their mortarboards off their heads and threw them up into the air do cheered. They did it! They’d graduated!

 

*****

 

Katie and Khushi had taken off their robes and had put them aside, ready for the night that was waiting for them.

 

“Are you sure I look okay?”

“You look perfect. Now stop worrying and look cool for when Arnav comes to find you.”

 

Khushi smoothed down her hair and pulled down her dress. A moment later, Arnav walked over to her.

 

“Hey.”

“Hi.”

“Congratulations!”

“Congrats to you too.”

 

Arnav and Khushi were lost in each other. Katie watched them and realised that they were long gone and that she needed to get their attention again.

 

“Ahem.”

 

Snapping out of their little trance, Arnav and Khushi looked up. Katie extended her hand to Arnav.

 

“Hi, I’m Katie.”

“Arnav.”

“Nice to meet you.”

“Same here. Should we get going ladies?”

 

The girls nodded and Arnav draped his arm around Khushi’s shoulders.

 

“Arnav! Wait up!”

 

Arnav and the girls stopped and saw Karl rushing over to them. Karl caught up with them, panting. He rested his hands on his knees as he got his breath back.

 

“I… Give me a second.”

 

Arnav, Khushi, and Katie watched with an amused expression as Karl stood there, hunched over breathing hard. After a moment, he straightened up.

 

“Hi, I’m Karl.”

“Katie.” Katie extended her hand and Karl shook it. Jackpot, he found her without even looking for her.

“And you must be Khushi, he hasn’t stopped talking about you.”

 

Blushing, Khushi looked up at Arnav who smiled down at her.

 

“Should we get going to the after party then?”

 

Everyone nodded and Arnav and Khushi walked in front of Karl and Katie, making small talk.

 

“So Katie, can I accompany you to the party?”

“You won’t ditch me will you?”

“I don’t intend to.”

“Then yes, you can accompany me. I don’t really fancy third wheeling those two.”

“How do you think it’s going to go down between them?”

“I don’t know, but I hope it goes well. Khushi hasn’t stopped thinking about him since she first met him.”

“Same with Arnav! He’s been going on about her for months.”

“I hope it works out between them. They seem really into each other.”

 

Karl and Katie continued to talk about their friends, whereas Arnav and Khushi continued to find out more about each other. Katie was glad to know that Arnav seemed to be as into Khushi as she was into him. It put her mind at ease, at least he seemed to care about Khushi the same way she did for him.
Karl led them to his car.

 

“I call shotgun! Is that okay with you Arnav?”

“Go for it.”

 

Katie fist pumped the air and got into the front passenger seat of the car, leaving Arnav and Khushi to sit at the back. Once everyone was seated and ready to go, Karl started the engine, shifted the car into drive and they were off towards their party venue to get their night started…