Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon

 

“Khushi, I need to talk to you.”

 

Eyes wide, Khushi was ready to run away. Things had been so weird between her and Arnav ji. To begin with there was the kiss from the mehendi day, the way he got all jealous and annoyed when NK was around her, the way he hadn’t objected to her kissing him in return in front of everyone. Then there was his concern when he had thought she’d been in an accident. The bangles that he had brought for her… And how could anyone forget the general niceness that Arnav ji had been showering her with.

Now, she didn’t want to hear anything else he had to say. Whenever he spoke or was close to her, all she could think about was how fast her heart was beating. Enough was enough. She was going to avoid him for the rest of the day so she could keep her heart under control.

 

“What about?”

“I just do.”

 

Taking steps towards Khushi, he was ready to talk about what was on his mind. But alas, interruptions were constantly getting in the way.

 

“Saale Saab, the groom needs you.”

“Akash…”

 

Nodding to Khushi, Arnav walked away, they’d resume their conversation later. Khushi stood there, she wasn’t going to go talk to him. It was her Jiji’s wedding, she had other things she needed to think about. She didn’t have time to think about the Laad Governor.
But she couldn’t help but think about his tone, how calmly he had spoken to her.

 

*****

 

“Bhai, I’m tense.”

 

Pulling at the buttons on Akash’s sherwani, Arnav looked up.

 

“Tense? Why would I be tense?”

“Not you bhai, I said I’m tense. And why are you in such a hurry?”

“I’m not in a hurry you are, after all you need to see Khushi.”

“What?”

“I mean Payal…”

 

*****

 

Sitting in the guest room, Payal was going through her jewellery, trying to work out what she was going to wear with her wedding outfit. She took one item out at a time, putting it aside after she’d explained her thought process to Khushi. However, Khushi wasn’t listening. She was rushing around the room, moving things from one side to another.

 

“Khushi! Are you listening to me? I said that the Jhumka isn’t here.”

“Kya?”

 

Running over, Khushi took the box that Payal was holding and started panicking and mumbling about how she would go looking for it.

 

“Khushi what’s the matter with you? I’m getting married yet you’re the one that’s getting all worried.”

“Me worried? Why would I be worried.”

 

*****

 

“Bhai have you forgotten? I’m not allowed to see Payal until the wedding now.”

“Yeah… right.”

 

*****

 

“I found it!”

 

Holding up the jhumka, Khushi handed it back to Payal.

 

“There you go. Now we have time.”

“Can you go and find amma and buaji for me?”

“I need to go and find Arnav ji too.”

“Arnav ji?”

“Haan, he wants to talk to me.”

 

Knotting her hands in front of her, Khushi thought about all the things he could possibly want to say to her.

 

*****

 

“You… You wanted…”

“I need to talk to you about something.”

 

It hadn’t taken her long to locate Arnav, and by the looks of it, it seemed as though he had been waiting for her to find him too. Walking towards her, Arnav closed the gap between them.

 

“Khushi main tumse…”

 

Eyes wide, Khushi looked up into Arnav’s eyes. Main tumse kya? What was he trying to say? Was he trying to tell her that he… No, no surely he didn’t…

Arnav walked towards her, and Khushi moved back. She didn’t want to move away from him, but her feet moved automatically, further and further back until her back hit the wall behind her. Arnav reached out, seemingly wanting to touch her.

 

“Arnav ji…”

 

He carried on, his hands close to her body, but not quite touching her. His phone began to ring.

 

“Arnav ji your phone…”

 

Arnav pulled his phone out of his pocket, never moving away from Khushi. A waiter approached from behind them, letting Arnav know that Nani was looking for him.
Moving away from her, Arnav spoke to Khushi with his eyes. They weren’t done yet. Pushing herself off the wall, Khushi looked up at Arnav as he moved back, but before he left, he pointed to the mirror beside them.

Confused, Khushi turned around and looked at her reflection. There on the mirror, on her forehead was a bindi. Khushi looked up to where Arnav was standing and saw that he was smirking slightly. Laad Governor, he did this. Blushing, Khushi reached out, peeled the bindi off the mirror and placed it on herself and looked up at Arnav again. He smiled and then walked away.

What was happening? What did he want to say? What was he doing?

 

*****

 

Anjali had gotten into an accident and the Raizada’s gathered around Anjali on her bed.

 

“I really am fine, please don’t tell anyone, they’ll just get worried for no reason. NK bhai, please go and stay with Akash so he doesn’t find out and get worried. And mama ji and mami ji, please take Nani. I’ll just get changed and I’ll come down.

 

Arnav watched from the door as he held his tears back, yet he failed as his tears flowed down his face. What if something had happened to his Di? How would he live? He could’ve lost her. He could’ve lost the woman who for a long time brought him up singlehandedly. He could’ve lost his Di before telling her that she was right…

The Raizada’s got to their feet, understanding that Anjali didn’t need to change, but she needed to talk to her brother who was on the verge of a breakdown. Slowly, they all filed out of the room, while Arnav remained perched on the edge of Anjali’s bed.

 

“Chote… I’m fine, absolutely fine.”

 

Finally letting his guard down, Arnav rested his head on his Di’s lap, while he cried like a child. Anjali stroked his hair, letting her own tears flow.

 

“I’m sorry Di.”

“Chote, why are you saying sorry to me?”

“For all the times I was rude to you and for all the times you asked me to do something for you and I said no straight out. You are my whole world Di, please never leave me like Ma did. Please Di, if you do I won’t be able to live.”

“Sh Chote. I would never leave you. Never. I’ll always be here for you, right here, always by your side. But you see, what I told you the other day about having no guarantees about tomorrow. This is why I said to you, if someone comes into your life and if there is something in your heart, you should tell them. You shouldn’t hold back, for we don’t know what could happen tomorrow. We don’t even know what could happen today. Now you go down, I’m going to change and then I will come down.

Getting to his feet, Arnav made his way over to the door before turning around and smiling at his Di. He recalled all the times his Di had told him how one day a girl would come and his heartbeat would increase, if anything happened, it would feel like his heartbeat would stop. He thought back to the night before when he thought Khushi had had an accident. And he realised that his Di was always right. That day had come, and that girl had arrived. It was Khushi.

 

“Di, I need to tell you something.”

“Haan, Chote, tell me.”

“You were right.”

“About what?”

“Remember all the time you told me someone would come into my life and mera saase rukh jaygi and all that stuff. It’s happened Di.”

 

He walked back over to her, and sat by her side. Anjali smiled her widest smile and cupped her brothers face.

 

“Di… I’m in love with…”

“Khushi ji. I know. You may only be telling me know, but I have known for the longest time that there was something in your heart for her. Have you told her?”

 

Arnav shook his head.

 

“But I want to tell her. Today, right now.”

“Then go tell her!”

“Lekin Di, do you think she loves…”

“She does Chote.”

“How can you be so sure?”
“I’ve seen the way she looks at you and the way you look at her. It’s clear what is between your hearts. Go and tell her Chote.”

 

Arnav got to his feet again and was ready to make his way out when another thought came to him.

 

“There’s something else I want to tell you and something else I need you to do.”

“Anything Chote…”

 

*****

 

With a smile that was refusing to leave her, Khushi made her way up to the terrace. Of course the note wasn’t signed from Arnav, but she knew it was him. Who else could it have been? She made her way up the stairs and onto the terrace where all the lights were sparkling around her. A hand came and rested on her shoulder. Slowly, Khushi turned around. Arnav. He’d arrived.

 

“Khushi, I need to talk to you.”

“About?”

 

Carefully taking her hand, Arnav held it in his own.

 

“I… Mein… I love you Khushi.”

 

His words echoed in her ears. He did? Did he?

 

“K… Kya? What did you say?”

 

“I said I love you. Mein tumse pyaar karta hoon Khushi.”

 

Tears fell from her eyes as her smile widened and she rushed into his arms.

 

“Hum bhi aapse… I.. I love… I love you too Arnav ji.”

 

Arnav felt his heart swell with joy, he’d never felt this much joy in his life. His arms tightened around Khushi and he held her close. She loved him too. He was right. She did…

They remained in their embrace not wanting to let the other go. They had finally got each other. They weren’t about to let go just yet. Arnav’s hand moved from around Khushi’s waist into her hair. He pulled away slightly, only slightly so that he could look at her face.

 

“I love you Khushi.”

“I love you too.”

“God I feel like saying that to you over and over again.”

“Same.”

 

Khushi made to rest her face in his chest again, but Arnav stopped her, placing his finger under her chin and lifting her face to his. Her eyes fluttered shut as she recalled the last time his face had been this close to hers. Diwali…

 

“I’ve been dying to kiss you. Can I?”

 

Saying nothing, Khushi felt her cheeks heat up as she moved her face only slightly more towards him. Arnav’s eyes too closed as he held her close and let his lips fall on hers. He felt her lips quiver between his, but her arms around him tightened as he slowly moved his lips against hers. She attempted to mimic his action, her hand reaching up to cup his face. They fumbled slightly, but their lips remained sealed to the others, trying to establish a pace and a familiarity.

Finally, when they felt that they needed air, they pulled apart ever so slightly. Their eyes opened, and Khushi saw Arnav’s eyes were much darker than usual.

 

“Marry me.”

“I will.”

“I mean tonight.”

 

Eyes widening, Khushi pulled herself out of Arnav’s arms.

 

“What?!”

“Yes. I want you to marry me, tonight.”

“But how?”

“I’ve already spoken to Di and Di is speaking to your family right now.”

“But even if they agree, how can we…”

“After Akash and Payal get married, we’ll get married on the same mandap.”

“But you don’t even believe in marriage.”

“After what happened yesterday, when I thought I lost you, I realised that life is unpredictable and then something happened today and I realised that I don’t want to have to let you go, ever. And if making sure you’re always with me is by marrying you, then that’s what I’m going to do.”

 

Taking everything in, Khushi felt so confused. Arnav wanted to marry her, Arnav loved her! She shook her head, trying to make sense of it all when Arnav’s phone buzzed.

 

“It’s Di.”

 

He clicked open the message and read it, his eyes wide with surprise.

 

“You’re family have said yes. Di said ‘larki wale maan gaye! Took some persuading but they have agreed! My Chote is getting married?'”

 

Mind going into overdrive, Khushi didn’t know what to think. Or how to react for that matter. Arnav realised that she was confused, so he placed his hands on her shoulders.

 

“If you don’t want to, we don’t have to. We can wait, do everything properly and then get married. But I want you, hell I need you and now that I’ve realised it, I won’t be able to stay away from you.”

“What if we do this and then you realise what you were feeling was wrong and you don’t actually want me that much.”

“Ever since I’ve met you, I’ve been pulled towards you. You’ve been changing me, slowly slowly. You’ve been taking bits of my heart to the point where yesterday I felt like I was empty because I thought I lost you. I don’t think my feelings towards you are going to change Khushi.”

 

Hearing him say those words, talk about his feelings like that, it pulled at Khushi’s heart. She hadn’t realised it until recently that she was in love with him, but when she realised, she knew that she wanted him. And now it seemed that it could become a reality.

 

“I need to talk to my family. But if they really do say yes and if they really are okay with this, then yes, I will marry you tonight.”

 

Arnav pulled her back into his arms, pressing his lips between hers once more while his fingers knotted into her long hair. He liked this, the feel of her hair in his fingers, the feel of her body against his, the feel of her lips on his. It was all new, yet he was already addicted to it.

 

*****

 

“Arre Sanka Devi. What is all this? Anjali bitya came and told us that Arnav babua wants to marry you tonight. What is all this?”

 

Looking to Arnav, Khushi really didn’t know how to answer the questions that her family were asking her. Placing his hand in hers, Arnav nodded and then addressed her family.

 

“Me and Khushi are in love with each other. This isn’t something that has been happening behind your back, we have only expressed our feelings for each other today. But now that I have realised my feelings for Khushi, I don’t want to have to wait before making her my wife. I understand this is very last minute but… I love Khushi and I want to do this.”

 

Buaji raised her hand to her forehead, called out to her Nand Kishore and then turned her attention back to Khushi.

 

“Dekho titaliya, of course you getting married tonight isn’t ideal, but if this is what you and Arnav babua really want, then we will not stand in your way.”

 

Looking between her buaji and her parents, Khushi nodded shyly. She’d always dreamt of a big lavish wedding, but now that it came down to it, she realised that all she really wanted was the man standing beside her. It didn’t matter to her if they didn’t have a big lavish wedding with lots of rituals and ceremonies before and after. She just wanted him, to be joined to him in holy matrimony.

 

“Then if this is what you want, we won’t say no.”

“What are you saying buaji?”

“I’m saying, take your hand out of Arnav babua’s right now and move away from him because the bride and groom aren’t allowed to see each other before they reach the mandap.”

 

She couldn’t believe it! She was getting married! Tonight! Payal took hold of Khushi’s arm and led her away from Arnav and into her room where she was getting ready.

The two sisters squealed with joy. They were both getting married, at the same mandap, into the same family!

 

*****

 

There was a rapid knock on the door and Khushi went to open it. She opened the door to see Anjali, standing there with a bundle of red clothes in her arms. She walked into the room and shut the door behind her.

 

“Congratulations Khushi ji! You’re getting married!”

“Anjali ji… I don’t know what to say.”

“Well for starters you can start calling me Di now. I can’t believe this is happening! You don’t understand how much I have dreamed about you and Chote getting married and now it’s happening! I’m so happy!”

 

Payal walked over to where Khushi and Anjali were standing.

 

“Do you see what she’s like Anjali ji, she’s hijacking my wedding day!”

“You can start calling me Di too! And you should get used to it, this is what my Chote is like. He always needs to be the centre of attention. He’s stealing his brothers wedding day.”

 

Together Payal and Anjali joked and teased Khushi for a while. However, once Anjali saw the time, she realised that she needed to rush off, after all, there were two weddings to take place!

Anjali handed over the bundle of clothes to Khushi.

 

“It’s not the best wedding outfit, but it’s the best I could have brought to me at such short notice.”

 

Turning the fabric over, Khushi looked at it and saw the blue boarder on the lengha and smiled.

 

“It’s beautiful Di!”

“Do you really like it?”

“I really do!”

“I’m so glad! Anyway, you start getting ready, I’ll have someone bring some jewellery for you too.”

 

Anjali turned away and left the room, shutting the door behind her. Payal came and stood beside Khushi as she opened up the outfit that Anjali had left for her. It was a simple lengha, definitely not bridal, but it was still beautiful. She couldn’t wait to get it on and get married to her Laad Governor.

 

*****

 

As Akash and Payal made their way around the holy fire, both families watched and showered them with flowers. They were on their sixth round, almost done. The evening had been long, with many rituals to complete for both the couples that were to get married. The Raizada’s and the Gupta’s had to make sure that they kept Arnav and Khushi away from each other during Payal and Akash’s wedding ceremony. But their eyes kept meeting, and Khushi blushed every time she remembered that she too would be getting married in a bit at this very mandap. She was ready, dressed in her bridal gear, waiting for her turn. As she looked over to Arnav, she realised he was still wearing his suit. Was he going to marry her wearing a suit? Typical Arnav Singh Raizada. Only he would do something like that. Shaking her head, Khushi went back to showering her Jiji and jijaji with flowers.

 

*****

 

When Akash and Payal’s wedding was complete and they had taken their blessings from the elders of both families, Payal moved to Khushi’s side and Akash to Arnav’s and they led their siblings to the mandap for their marriage. Some of the guests were not aware of the sudden double wedding plan and so looked to each other confused. But regardless, people came together once more for the second marriage.

 

*****

 

The rounds were completed, vows had been made, mangalsoothra was tied and sindoor was applied. Arnav and Khushi were officially married and they couldn’t be happier. They got their blessings from the family members and were congratulated by all their guests.

Arnav placed his hand on Khushi’s, pulling her into himself.

 

“I can’t wait to fully make you mine.”

 

Blushing, Khushi realised what he was insinuating. She hadn’t thought about that, about what he was suggesting but maybe she should have been. Hadn’t she been teasing her Jiji all week about her wedding night? How had her own wedding night slipped her mind?

The bidaai of Khushi and Payal took place and then they were welcomed into the Raizada house with Akash and Arnav carrying their respective brides over the threshold.
Usually they would have got the new couple to play some games, however due to the unexpected second marriage, it was late and everyone was tired so the couples were sent to their bedrooms.

 

*****

 

Walking into his room, Arnav didn’t expect it to be decorated for their suhaag raat, but was surprised to see that it had been decorated. Flower petals and candles were scattered all over the room. The bed too was decorated with flowers hanging all around it.

Arnav carried Khushi over to the bed and lowered her onto it, lowering himself at the same time, his face moving closer to hers as her back hit the bed. His lips pressed between hers just as he settled her onto the bed and positioned himself over her.

Cupping her face and making sure that his weight wasn’t on her, Arnav kissed Khushi passionately, his lips urgent against hers. Wrapping her arms around his neck, Khushi pulled Arnav close to herself. Biting her lip ever so slightly, Arnav used Khushi’s momentary shock to slide his tongue against hers. The intrusion of his tongue caught Khushi off guard for a moment, but she let him steer the kiss and she attempted to mimic his direction.

 

*****

 

Some time later, Arnav and Khushi were still in bed, still just kissing. They lay on their sides, Arnav’s leg slung over Khushi’s as his hands caressed her back.

Finally he pulled away and got to his feet.

 

“I need to get out of these clothes. Do you want to get changed?”

 

Shaking her head, Khushi sat up in bed.

 

“You change, I’ll wait for you.”

 

Nodding, Arnav walked over to his wardrobe, pulled some clothes out and went into the bathroom. Leaning back against the headboard, Khushi lifted her hand to her lips and smiled. When her day began hours and hours ago, she hadn’t thought she would end up being married at the end of the day. Heck, she didn’t even think that she and Arnav would confess their feelings for each other. Yet they had and here they were, married.

Loosening the dupatta that was pinned to her head, Khushi took it off her head and just used it to cover her chest. She slowly began to take off the heavy jewellery that she had been wearing when her hand fell upon her mangalsoothra.

Smiling to herself, she let it rest around her neck. She was married. To Arnav ji! To the man who she had been in love with!

Before Khushi could proceed any further with her thoughts, Arnav came out of the bathroom in nothing but his sweat pants. She took in his toned abs, his muscular arms.

Her eyes travelled shamelessly down and she took in the sight of his feint V lines. Holy crap.

He walked over to the bed and pulled Khushi off of it and onto her feet.

 

“Arnav ji… What are you…”

“I need to undress you.”

 

Blushing, Khushi looked away as Arnav reached out and slowly pulled her dupatta away from her. As he did so, he saw her chest heave slightly, moving up and down in a rhythmic manner. She attempted to raise her arms, to cover herself, but Arnav stopped her, moving her arms away. He took a step closer to her, letting his lips move to her not exposed neck as he trailed a line of hot kisses down to the base of the neck. His hands wrapped around her exposed waist as he ground her body against his.

 

“I know this is all happening really fast, we can slow down if you want.”

 

He whispered the words into her ear, his warm breath made her shiver with a new kind of wanting.

 

“But I’ll admit, I really want to make love to you tonight.”

 

His words ignited a new kind of fire within her and Khushi wrapped her arms around his neck.

 

“I want to be yours.”

 

Still hugging her close to himself, Arnav began to undo the doori of Khushi’s lengha top, letting it sag around her shoulders as it began to come undone. Pulling it over her head, his eyes fell onto her exposed body.

 

“Are you sure?”

 

It was all happening fast, but this was one thing Khushi was sure of. She loved Arnav ji, her husband, and she wanted to be his. Some may think she was being insane, given the fact that only 12 hours ago she had no idea that 12 hours later she would be married. But she was and she knew how she felt about him and he felt about her. She wanted this, she wanted him.

He kneeled down before her, his fingers in the waistband of her lengha as he pulled it away slowly. Khushi shut her eyes, breathing hard. This was happening, it was really happening.

Lifting her off her feet, he put her down onto the bed once more before proceeding to free her of her panties and his own trousers. Once their clothing was no longer near them, they finally came together as one…

 

*****

 

Morning arrived sooner than either of them had expected and light hit their eyes, ruining their peaceful slumber. Khushi’s eyes fluttered open and looked at Arnav, sleeping peacefully beside her. Or should she say under her. Her head was resting on his exposed chest, her leg was draped over his and her arm on his shoulder.

Blushing, Khushi remembered last night, their expression of love, their marriage, their kisses, their love making… Pressing a kiss on his shoulder, Khushi gathered the covers around her as she began to get out of bed. But she felt his hand around her wrist and he pulled her back onto himself.

 

“Where do you think you’re going?”

“To get ready for the day.”

 

Running his finger along her body, he felt her melt back into him.

 

“I love you Khushi.”

“I love you too.”

 

Laying in each other’s arms, they both enjoyed the warmth that they were receiving from the other. Both smiled at their respective thoughts. But ultimately, only one thought stayed in their minds. It felt so good that their relationship finally had a name.

 

*****

 

Author’s note:

So many of you are probably seeing this and thinking “What? Another OS this week?” I didn’t have any intention to post this, but after realising that today marks the fifth anniversary of IPKKND ending, I thought we may as well make the day special by remembering and celebrating the union of our fave jodi. So here you go, a special, long OS that I have been saving for a special occasion. Hope you guys enjoy it. Be sure to let me know what you think. 

Fifty Shades of Raizada ~ Part 15

“I’ll sign the contract.”

 

Arnav turned to Khushi, his eyes wide. Did she just say what he thought she said?

 

“I mean there are things we need to negotiate, but yes, I will sign it.”

 

Gathering her into his arms, Arnav pressed a quick kiss on Khushi’s lips before proceeding to press a line of kisses along her neck. His hand wandered along to her exposed midriff and stayed there, feeling her smooth skin.

Moving away from her neck, he inched closer to her lips again, which were already parted, waiting for him. Centimetres apart, Khushi could feel his breath against her lips, as she moved closer, trying to get to him faster. His lips brushed against hers when there was an abrupt knock on the door.

 

“Chote? Are you and Khushi in there?”

 

Jumping apart, Khushi fixed her sari and looked at Arnav, who was beyond annoyed.

 

“We’re busy Di.”

“You can’t be too busy, you aren’t married yet. Come downstairs quickly, mama and mami are ready to cut their cake.”

 

The sound of Anjali’s shoes moving away from the door could be heard clearly, and Arnav waited until he could no longer hear her heels before moving back in. However, Khushi placed her hand between their lips, laughed and then got to her feet.

 

“We should go, everyone’s waiting for us.”

“Do we have to?”

 

Laughing, Khushi places her hand in Arnav’s and pulls him to his feet.

 

“Come on.”

“Did you hear that joke Di made? About how we can’t be too busy because we aren’t married yet?”

“I did hear that.”

“It’s so presumptive of her to assume that we aren’t having sex because we aren’t married. We could have been.”

“Your sister seems very traditional. I understand where she’s coming from.”

 

Shaking his head, Arnav decided that he didn’t want to proceed with this conversation right now. Taking Khushi’s hand, he opened the door and they began to make their way back to everyone else.

At the dining table, the whole family was stood around mama and mamiji, and there was a large cake on the table, waiting for them to cut.

 

“Finally, Chote and Khushi are here too. The cake can be cut.”

 

Picking up the knife, mama and mami held it together as sliced into the cake. Everyone clapped for them, congratulating them on another year of their marriage. Mama ji took a bit of the cake and fed mami and then mami did the same. Khushi watched as they fed each other cake and then they started going round the family members. She couldn’t help but notice how in love mami and mama seemed to be. Even after being married for so long, she could see that there was still a spark between them and she couldn’t help but wonder if her and Arnav would also be able to last that long and if they would still have a spark between them. It was undeniable that they had a spark between them now. But would the fire between them last? Or would it go out after a while?

 

*****

 

Once the cake and everything else had been cleared up, the Raizada’s all sat down together with Arnav and Khushi, just talking about life in general.

 

“So Khushi, what do you do?”

“I’ve just graduated so I’m looking for work.”

“That’s great! What did you major in?”

“English literature.”

“That’s so interesting. What are you plans for the future regarding our brother?”

 

Looking over at Arnav, Khushi bit her lip slightly. What was she meant to say? How was she meant to answer this? She knew what she wanted but Arnav…

 

“Di, our relationship is still new. Once we get into the swing of things, we’ll let you know where we are going next.”

“I’m just trying to make conversation.”

“I know Di, but honestly, by asking us about the future constantly, you’re putting pressure on us. We just want to enjoy, get to know each other and then see where things go.”

 

Nani shook her head hearing this.

 

“Kids these days. They need to enjoy themselves first. In our day, our parents selected someone for us and that was it. We got to know them after marriage. Now, kids meet someone, have as much fun as they want, and half the time don’t even end up staying together.”

 

Nani saying this made Khushi feel slightly uncomfortable. She understood exactly what Nani was saying and she also agreed with her, but Khushi didn’t like that Nani was probably judging her because of what Arnav was saying. She didn’t want Nani to think that she was one of those girls who would simply stay with a man, have fun and not think about the future. Khushi did think about the future, she wanted a future with Arnav because she knew that if she could get him to open up, if she could look into his heart, she would be able to, in time, start reversing the years of pain that had hardened him. She knew that she cared about him enough and that if she tried hard enough, she would be able to change him.

 

“You don’t need to worry about that with us. I intend on keeping Khushi forever.”

 

Payal and Anjali aww-ed at this comment of Arnav’s. How romantic, he wanted to stay with Khushi forever. But Khushi had heard his wording. He didn’t want to stay with her forever, he wanted to keep her forever. Everyone else seemed to have ignored his wording, most people probably would, however Khushi didn’t like it. She didn’t want to be kept, she wanted to be loved and cherished. She wasn’t a trophy to win and then keep for the rest of time.

Tonnes and tonnes of different thoughts fluttered through Khushi’s mind. But she pushed them all away. There was a time and place for everything and now was not the time to start doubting Arnav’s intentions.

 

*****

 

As the evening at the Raizada house came to a close, Khushi realised that she really like Anjali. Payal was quiet but she too was very nice. But in general, the Raizada’s were all very warm and welcoming and Khushi felt like she was one of them in no time.

 

“Please come back again soon Khushi. It was lovely seeing you. Even if you don’t come with Chote, just come on your own. We’d love to have you again.”

“Thank you so much Anjali Ji.”

“Please, call me Di.”

 

Blushing, Khushi hugged Anjali. She truly was one of the nicest people Khushi had ever met.

 

“Chote, you’re coming back soon to sort some paperwork with me aren’t you?”

“Yes Di, I’ll come before next weekend.”

“Pakka?”

“Pakka Di.”

 

Anjali hugged her brother tightly and Khushi noticed the tears gathering in her eyes. It was evident that the siblings shared a very strong bond, one where they cared about each other a lot.

Finally, after all farewells had been done, Arnav and Khushi took their leave.

 

*****

 

“Your family are lovely.”

“They are, but they can be crazy as well. But I guess I wouldn’t change them for the world. I’m grateful that I have them.”

“Thank you for letting me meet them. And also thank you for telling me about yourself.”

 

Arnav just smiled. He wasn’t entirely sure how to proceed with this conversation, so chose to shut it down altogether. A smirk played on his lips as he remembered something that she’d said to him earlier.

 

“So… You’re going to sign the contract.”

“After we go through it. There’s so much I want to change. So much that I don’t actually even understand…”

“So how about we have a meeting once you’ve read through it and talk through it”

“Okay, yeah sure.”

“But first, can I take you back to mine, I’ve missed you.”

“Arnav…”

 

She wanted to object, remind him that he’s said he wouldn’t touch her again until the contract had been dealt with, but she found herself just nodding to what he had said. She’d missed him too. And considering she hadn’t signed the contract yet, he couldn’t inflict anything crazy on her. Yet.

 

*****

 

They got back to the city and made their way to Arnav’s apartment. The very same one she’d woken up in that day she got drunk after graduation.

 

“I haven’t brought you back here since that first day, have I?”

 

Shaking her head, Khushi unclipped her seatbelt and they made their way up to his apartment.

He took her hand in his own as he opened the door and ushered her inside. Once inside, Arnav’s hands were on her, under her sari.

 

“Did I tell you how fucking sexy you look in this sari?”

“No you didn’t.”

“You look fucking sexy in that sari.”

“You don’t look too bad yourself.”

 

Leading Khushi to his bedroom, he pushed her down straight onto his bed. Loosening his tie, Arnav stripped out of his clothes before coming back to Khushi and unravelling her sari. He made light work of the sari that had taken her almost half an hour to get right.

Once he’d completely freed them both of their clothes, he picked up his tie and wrapped it around Khushi’s wrists.

 

“What are you…”

“Giving you your first taste of how things can be once you sign the contract.”

“Arnav…”

“Don’t worry about it, it’s going to be fine.”

 

Once he made sure that her wrists were tightly tied, he then proceeded to tie her to the headboard.

 

“Wait! Stop!”

 

Arnav chuckled and pressed a kiss onto Khushi’s lips. He reassured her that she had nothing to worry about. This time would be the same as all the other times, only difference would be that she was tied to the bed. Khushi didn’t like the idea of being unable to move her hands, but she went along with it. Even know she was nervous, she knew this was something she knew she could actually deal with.

 

“You know, you should feel honoured right now. I’ve never had sex with anyone in this bed before. Come to think of it, I’ve never had sex with anyone in any of my personal beds before. We’ve already done it in my other bed and now we’re doing it in this one too.”

 

Blushing, Khushi took his words in. Did that mean he saw her as being different to all the other girls that he’d been with? Did that mean he saw her as something special, hence why he was willing to do this with her in his own bed? Surely he must find her special, if he didn’t, he wouldn’t have introduced her to his family, nor would he reassure her that marriage was something that they could work towards at some point.

 

*****

 

Not long after Arnav had tied Khushi up, he was releasing her again once more. Both panting frantically, a layer of sweat glistened on both Arnav and Khushi. He moved himself off of her and grabbed at his clothes and pulled them back on again.

 

“You okay?”

 

Nodding, Khushi hid her face with the duvet. How could she ever admit that she actually enjoyed what they had just and how they had done it? But Arnav didn’t seem as though he was about to ask her about it. He was dressed again in no time and he was getting out of bed.

 

“Arnav, where are you…”

“I have work to do.”

“But now? It’s getting late and we just…”

“You can sleep or relax, but I have stuff I need to do.”

 

With that, Arnav grabbed his laptop and left the bedroom. Khushi couldn’t believe it. He never left her so soon after they’d gotten intimated and now this? Was this how it would be if she signed the contract? Would he just walk off as soon as he was done. What about simply basking in the afterglow with each other? Just cuddling and letting sleep take over?

Laying back in bed, a million thoughts whizzed around Khushi’s head. Was this contract really one worth signing? Should she really put herself out there for him like this if he didn’t even care enough to stay with her after getting close to her? Khushi realised that there were a lot of things she needed to think through before she could sign the contract, but before all that, she really needed to get some sleep.

Fifty Shades of Raizada ~ Part 14

The next weekend arrived fast and Khushi found herself feeling super nervous that she was soon going to meet the Raizada’s. She’d made piles and piles of clothes that she wasn’t sure if she should wear or not. Arnav had been no help. He’d told her it wouldn’t even matter if she turned up in a bikini, they just wanted to meet her.

 

“Lavanya, help me na, what am I supposed to wear?”

“What did Arnav say?”

“He told me I could wear a bikini and no one would care.”

“He probably has a point.”

“I know, but I don’t want to make a bad impression on them. I want to make a good first impression. I want them to know that I am serious about Arnav.”

 

Khushi moved away from her own wardrobe and went to open Lavanya’s.

 

“Can I pick something from your wardrobe?”

“Go for it.”

 

Opening up the wardrobe, Khushi filtered through Lavanya’s wardrobe, trying to find something to wear. Lavanya’s wardrobe consisted majorly of western dresses and as much as Khushi knew she’d be able to rock one, she decided that she wanted to wear either a sari or a kameez.

 

“La, can I wear your black sari?”

“Sure you can. But isn’t that too see through for you?”

“It probably is, but it’s designer.”

“Khushi. You don’t need to wear a designer sari to impress the Raizada’s.”

“I know, but I just want them not to doubt me at all.”

 

Taking the sari out for Khushi, Lavanya draped it over her and then stood back.

 

“I think you can really pull this off.”

“Do you think so?”

“Yeah! Of course! You’re going to stun the Raizada’s and Arnav!”

 

Blushing, Khushi turned away and placed her hand over her beating heart.

 

“I really hope that I can impress them all.”

 

*****

 

“Is she ready?”

 

Arnav walked into the little living room and took a seat. Lavanya came and sat opposite him.

 

“She’s just picking some jewellery.”

“Is she nervous?”

“Of course she is! I’m surprised she still has nails at all considering the way she’s been biting them.”

 

Arnav ran his hand through his hair. He’d always been super careful so his family didn’t find out about the women he had in his life because he knew they weren’t permanent and he didn’t want his family to get their hopes up, thinking that he was going to settle down. Now, his family had found out that he has a woman in his life and he knew it was going to be the start of a million different questions.

Arnav was pulled out of his thoughts when he heard a light cough behind him. Turning around, he saw Khushi behind him.

She was wearing a simple, black chiffon sari, which did nothing to actually cover her body. He could see her toned stomach through the sari. The blouse was silver with pearls all over it. She’s decided to team her outfit up with a pair of simple pearl stud earrings and a pearl necklace. His eyes fell down to her shoes, she was wearing six inch silver heels. He’d never seen her like this before, and he loved this look, this side of her.

She never failed to mesmerise him and Arnav realised then that he would never be over her. Everything about her stunned him. Getting to his feet, Arnav reached out for Khushi and placed a kiss on her cheek.

 

“You look stunning as always.”

 

She looked up and as their eyes met, Khushi smiled. She hadn’t seen him since last weekend. They’d spoken, but it had been a busy week and so they hadn’t had the opportunity to meet up. Lavanya looked at the couple and she couldn’t help but smile. She’d always wanted Khushi to find someone who would love her and treat her like she was the most precious person on earth and now it seemed like she had.

Arnav wrapped an arm around Khushi.

 

“Are you ready to leave?”

 

Nodding, Khushi picked up her clutch off the coffee table, but Lavanya stopped them.

 

“Let me take a picture of you guys. You look so amazing!”

 

Arnav chuckled and held Khushi close while Lavanya took her phone out.

Placing her hand on his chest, and Arnav made sure Khushi was as close to him as possible.

 

“Perfect.”

 

Snapping a couple of pictures, Lavanya got what she wanted and let them got on with their evening.

 

“Are you going to bring Khushi home this evening?”

“It’s up to her.”

 

Turning to Khushi, Lavanya raised her eyebrow. Looking between Arnav and La, Khushi thought about it.

 

“I’ll call you and let you know I’m a bit.”

 

Taking their leave, Arnav and Khushi left and got into his car and began their journey towards Shantivan.

 

*****

 

When they finally pulled up in front of Shantivan, Khushi took a deep breath and took her seatbelt off.

 

“Khushi wait.”

 

Turning to face him, Khushi looked at Arnav with a question in her eyes.

 

“Are you okay?”

“I’m fine, just a bit nervous to be meeting your family so soon.”

“Don’t worry about them, they know not to bother you. Come on, let’s get this show on the road.”

 

Arnav got out of the car and rushed over to Khushi’s side and helped her out. Taking her hand, he helped her down and then wrapped his arm around her waist and led her to the front door.

Reaching the door, Arnav rang the doorbell, his arm still firmly around Khushi. The door opened a matter of seconds later, and there stood Anjali with a pooja ki thaal.

 

“Hi! Welcome! Come in!”

 

She did a quick aarthi and then ushered Arnav and Khushi into the house.

 

“Di, we aren’t married, you didn’t need to do aarthi.”

“I know that, but I wanted to welcome Khushi properly. You’ve never brought anyone home, so this must mean that Khushi is special. And due to that I want to make sure that she is welcomed properly so she has a good impression of us so that she stays with you.”

 

Khushi smiled at Anjali. Did she really mean it when she said that she wanted to make a good impression on her? Were they as anxious about meeting her as she was them?Anjali led Arnav and Khushi into the grand living area and Khushi looked around, taking in the room. It was large, with a high ceiling and had powder blue furnishing.

 

“You have a beautiful house Anjali ji.”

“Please call me Di and you should tell Chote that you like the house. He pretty much designed and decorated this entire house.”

 

Turning to Arnav, Khushi looked at him with wide eyes.

 

“I didn’t know you had such an interest in interior decorating.”

 

Shrugging hide shoulders, Arnav turned his attention to his sister.

 

“Di, where is everyone?”

“Hello hi bye bye. Is my Arnav bitwa looking for me?”

 

Turning, Khushi saw a middle aged woman, dressed in bright pinks and yellows walking down the stairs. She descended the stairs and rushed over to Arnav and gave him a hug.

 

“What is this Arnav bitwa? Ever since you’ve become a big business man, you don’t seem to have time for your mami at all.”

“Mami ji, you know it’s not like that.”

 

They broke their hug and Arnav introduced mami to Khushi.

 

“Khushi, this is mamiji. Mami ji, this is Khushi, my girlfriend.”

 

Mami ji looked Khushi up and down, taking in her outfit. Khushi felt herself sweat slightly under Mami’s glare and she pulled her pallu slightly.

 

“Very nice sari. I approve. Is it designer?”

“Ji Mami ji, but it isn’t mine…”

 

Biting her tongue, Khushi realised that maybe she shouldn’t have said this. She didn’t want them to think that she wasn’t capable of buying designer saris herself. But looking at both Mami and Anjali’s expressions, she realised that it really didn’t matter to them if it was hers or not. They were impressed regardless.

Letting out the breath that Khushi was holding. Mami ji turned her attention back to Arnav.

 

“Di, Nani, mama ji, Akash aur Payal kaha hai?”

“They’re coming chote. Give them a moment.”

 

There were so many people in the Raizada family that Khushi needed to meet. She was so worried that she wouldn’t impress someone and it would cause a problem between herself and Arnav.

Almost as though he read her mind, Arnav wrapped his arm around Khushi and held her close to himself.

 

“Are you okay?”

 

Nodding Khushi turned her attention to the stairs where she saw a young couple walking down.

 

“Bhai! You made it!”

 

Akash and Payal made their way over to Arnav and Khushi. Akash hugged his brother and Payal smiled at Khushi.

 

“Akash, Payal, this is Khushi, my girlfriend. Khushi, this is Akash, my cousin and this is his wife, Payal.”

 

They all greeted each other and made small talk as they sat and waited for Nani ji and mama ji to come down.

Mama ji came next. He hugged his nephew and greeted Khushi before going and taking a seat by Manorama.

They all sat together, talking about dinner and asking Arnav and Khushi about their relationship. Khushi felt like she didn’t know what to say, for she wasn’t entirely clear on their relationship herself. She chose to remain fairly quiet, and let Arnav do the majority of the talking and only spoke when she knew what to say.

After ages of waiting, finally Nani came down the stairs and over to the living area where everyone was waiting for her. Her eyes instantly fell on Arnav, and tears gathered in her eyes.

Arnav got to his feet and made his way over to his Nani.

 

“Mera Chote. You’ve come home after such a long time. Why have you stayed away from your Nani for so long?”

 

Hugging Nani, he wiped away the tears that had formed in his eyes and introduced her to Khushi. Khushi put her hands together and greeted Nani.

 

“Namaste Naniji.”

 

Nani took Khushi into her arms and hugged her. Khushi’s eyes widened as she looked at Arnav over Nani’s shoulder.

 

“Jeete ro bitya. I must say Chote, you have picked yourself a beautiful girl.”

 

Blushing a deep shade of red, Khushi looked down, feeling shy.

 

“When are you planning on getting married?”

“Nani, we’ve only met recently, marriage is still out of the picture for now.”

 

Both Nani and Anjali put their hands on their hips and looked at Arnav and Khushi.

 

“Surely you guys have some kind of faint idea.”

 

Arnav shook his head.

 

“Anyway, today isn’t about me and Khushi, today is mama and Mami’s day. Shall we go and celebrate that?”

 

*****

 

The Raizada’s and Khushi were all sat around the dining table, eating and laughing at stories that were being shared. Khushi couldn’t help but feel herself loosen up. She’d been so worried about making a good impression that she hadn’t really been focusing on anything else. However, now being here, she realised that she hadn’t needed to have worried so much. The Raizada’s were good, welcoming people. They liked to have fun and they were all very open. It made her really think about Arnav. He was so much more different than the rest of his family. Even now, they were all joking together, and even though he was partaking in the jokes, he never made his own jokes, never really let his own guard down. It made her wonder why, why he was like that and why he chose the life that he had chosen for himself.

Once dinner was over and dessert had been eaten, everyone moved back to the living room.

 

“Chote, why don’t you go and show Khushi you’re childhood bedroom?”

 

Nodding, Arnav got up, took Khushi’s hand and led her up the stairs.

As they went up, he showed and explained everything they passed. He told her which was Di’s room, which was Nani’s room, which was Mama and Mami’s, which was Akash and Payal’s. Finally they reached the door at the end of the long corridor and Arnav slid open the lock and pushed the door open.

 

“Welcome to my childhood bedroom.”

 

Arnav led Khushi into the room and shut the door behind himself. Looking around, Khushi took in the chic decor. She took in the large fur rug, the large bed, and the stylish recliner. Her eyes then fell outside the window and saw that there was a small pool.

 

“You have your own pool?”

“It’s only 3 feet deep, but yes, I have my own pool.”

 

She carried on looking around, taking in all the framed photographs that were dotted around the room. There were many of Arnav on his own, from various points of his life. Khushi noted how the younger Arnav’s had a much more softer look in his eyes than the older Arnav’s or the Arnav that was stood before her. A couple of the pictures were on him and his sister through the years. And then there was a final photograph, one with a man and a woman, two people that Khushi hadn’t met before, yet felt like she knew. The woman had the same eyes as Arnav, only her eyes were much, much softer, looked much happier. And the man had a stance that was similar to Arnav’s.

Walking over to where Khushi was standing, he placed a hand on her shoulder.

 

“That’s my mom and dad.”

“Your mom is so beautiful.”

“She was. She was the most beautiful woman in the world.”

“What happened to them?”

 

Taking Khushi’s hand, Arnav led her over to the bed, where he sat her down and then sat down beside her. He took a deep breath.

 

“They both killed themselves.”

 

Gasping, Khushi placed her hand over her mouth and took Arnav into her arms.

 

“I’m so sorry.”

“I was only 14 at the time. First my mom shot herself, and then my dad shot himself with the same gun after her. Within 10 minutes, I lost both my parents.”

“I can’t even begin to imagine…”

“He was having an affair. My dad, he was having an affair. How could he do that to my mom? When she found out, she tried to live with it, live with what he was doing behind her back, but she couldn’t, so she did what she needed to do to get away from him and his actions. Once dad realised what she did, he couldn’t live with the guilt, with the fact that he drove mom to suicide. So he picked up the gun and ended himself as well.”

“I’m so so sorry.”

“He was a coward, he couldn’t live with his actions.”

 

Tears were rolling down both their faces. Khushi took Arnav into her arms, letting him break down. She held him tight, making sure that he knew she was there for him. Once he stopped crying, he wiped his face and composed himself.

 

“Now do you see why I live the life I live?”

“Your parents actions hardened you.”

“No, no it’s not that. My parents lost control. My dad couldn’t control his desires and that led to him being the cause of them both ending their lives. I can’t afford to do that, I can’t lose control. I need to be in control, always.”

“You aren’t your parents Arnav. You may not lose control any way.”

“I may not, but I still have their blood running through me. The way I have chosen to live, I always have control. I can’t hurt myself or anyone else. I have control at all times.”

 

Placing her hand on Arnav’s knee, Khushi realised she finally understood why he was the way he was. Granted, she still didn’t 100% agree, but it made sense. She leaned in and placed a kiss on Arnav’s cheek. This contract, it was his way to stay in control because he felt that that was what he needed. But Khushi realised that what he really needed was someone’s love, to show him that losing control sometimes wasn’t the worst thing that could happen. She was ready to stay by his side and help him through this.

“I’ll sign the contract.”

Jalebi ~ Part 12

“You can stay with me.”

 

Arnav’s head snapped back and he looked at Khushi.

 

“What are you…”

 

Taking his hand, Khushi pulled them away from the reception desk so that people behind them could get themselves sorted while they talked.

 

“My room is a big one. I’ve got a big bed and there’s also meant to be a big sofa. So one of us can sleep on the bed the other on the sofa, and we can keep switching while we’re here. Or if a room opens up, you can shift there after.”

“Are you sure?”

“Honestly I think it’s the only option we have. Otherwise you’re going to have to stay somewhere else and it could be really far. This way would be most convenient.”

“I don’t have any issue with this idea, but so long as you’re okay with it.”

“I told you, it’s no issue at all and I think it’s the best idea.”

“Okay, but you have to let me pay for the room.”

“Arnav, that isn’t necessary.”

“No, I insist. If you don’t let me pay then I won’t stay with you.”

“We’ll go half half.”

“Deal.”

 

Arnav and Khushi got back into line for the reception desk and Khushi notified the woman that Arnav would now be staying with her in her room.

 

“That’s fine ma’am. Enjoy your stay.”

 

Taking the key card, Khushi made sure she knew which floor and which room they were going to. She led Arnav over to the elevator and they made their way up to the 10th floor where Khushi’s room was.

They reached the room and Khushi unlocked the door and let them in.

The bag boy behind them brought their bags in and Khushi told him to put them down the side. The room was huge and the bed was even bigger. Arnav looked around the room, it sure was classy. The room was decorated in red and cream with a large tv on one side. There was a large sofa to one side but it wouldn’t be big enough for either of them to sleep on.

 

“I told you there would be more than enough room for both of us.”

 

Arnav’s eyes fell on the bed and his mind couldn’t help but go there. The bed was large and looked fairly spacious, it was as though this bed was made for intimate things to happen on it. But he knew that nothing of such was going to happen on this bed.

 

“So er, Arnav you get comfortable, I’m just going to the bathroom to freshen up.”

 

She picked up her luggage and opened it to take out her wash bag and some pjs. Khushi then went into the bathroom and locked the door.

Arnav went over to his luggage and took some of his stuff out and began to fill the little wardrobe, making sure he left enough room for Khushi’s stuff. He looked over at the clock, it was only 7pm yet he already felt drained but then realised it was well past his bed time in India. Arnav took his phone out and connected to the hotel wifi and texted his family members, just so that they would know he got here safely.

The water was running in the bathroom and Arnav realised that Khushi must have been taking a shower. Arnav’s mind went into overdrive. She was taking a shower… She was on the other side of the door, naked. Arnav shut his eyes, trying to push the thoughts out of his mind, but he couldn’t. His mind conjured up images of Khushi, naked, water cascading down her body as she stood under the powerful stream of water. He imagined himself, walking into the bathroom, stripping his clothes off and walking into the shower with her, stepping in behind her and pulling her wet naked body against his. Arnav shook his head, pushing his little fantasy out of his head. He couldn’t think like that, he couldn’t, it would just lead to complications. It would make their stay harder to deal with.

The door opened and Khushi walked out, in her pyjamas and with a large white dressing gown with the hotel logo on.

 

“There’s one in there for you as well.”

 

Arnav nodded and grabbed his stuff and went into the bathroom. Khushi saw that he’d been busy, getting his stuff sorted and decided that she too should get her stuff sorted in the wardrobe.

 

*****

 

By the time Arnav had finished in the bathroom, Khushi had finished tidying her things away and was sat at the desk with her laptop.

 

“I was just making sure that I had all my notes for tomorrow’s conference. You did let them know that you were going to attend right.”

“Yes, I notified them as soon as I could and they said that it was fine and that they’d be expecting me.”

 

Nodding Khushi logged off the laptop and let out a big yawn.

 

“You’re tired too?”

“Yeah, really tired.”

“Should we call it a night?”

“Do you not want to eat anything?”

“I’m not really hungry right now.”

 

They both remained standing where they were, not sure were to go and what to go. They were both fully aware of the fact that neither of them would fit on the sofa. It just wasn’t long enough for either of them. Regardless, Arnav went over to the sofa and sat down. He reached over and grabbed a blanket off the bed. Khushi remained standing where she was. She knew he couldn’t sleep on the sofa, it wasn’t big enough and he wouldn’t be comfortable at all.

 

“Arnav… I think you should come sleep on the bed.”

“But where will you sleep?”

“I… I can sleep on the bed too…”

“What?”

“Neither of us can sleep on the sofa, it’s too small.”

“But on the bed…”

“It’s big enough for both of us and we can just put pillows between us.”

“Are you sure?”

“There’s nothing else we can do.”

“Khushi…”

“Seriously, its fine.”

 

Taking some of the extra pillows that were on the bed, Khushi built a tiny wall down the middle of the bed and then sat down on the left side.

 

“I’m taking the left, you can have the right.”

“I sleep on the right any way.”

 

Khushi turned out the lamp on her side of the bed and then reached out and turned the main room lights off. Arnav felt confused, unsure of what he should do. But then slowly made his way over to the bed. He got onto the right side of the bed and lay down and switched the lamp on his side of the bed off as well.

Once both lights were switched off, Khushi sat up and took her dressing gown off and then got under the covers.

 

*****

 

Hours passed, yet neither Arnav nor Khushi were able to get to sleep. Both were aware that the other was awake, but both pretend that they were asleep. After a while, Arnav decided that this wasn’t working and so reached out and turned the lamp on his side in and got out of bed.

Pulling his laptop out, he went and sat at the desk. Khushi lay still, wondering if she should get up and acknowledge that he’d got up or to carry on feigning sleep. She decided that she was going to get up too. Khushi sat up.

 

“You’re still awake?”

“I couldn’t sleep so I thought I’d do some work.”

“Aren’t you tired Arnav?”

“I am, but if I can’t sleep I may as well do some work.”

 

Getting out of bed, Khushi put her dressing gown on and went and sat on the sofa.

 

“You shouldn’t work now. We’ve been travelling and you must be tired. Should we watch a film?”

 

Arnav looked at his laptop and then looked back at Khushi. Logging off and switching off his laptop, Arnav left the desk and came and sat beside Khushi on the sofa.

 

“What do they have?”

 

Browsing through the film selection, nothing much caught the eye. That was until Khushi saw that they could watch Despicable Me 3.

 

“Can we watch this?”

“You like the minions”

“I love the minions, they’re so cute.”

“I was going to suggest we watch 50 Shades Darker but if you want to watch Despicable Me 3 then that’s what we should watch.”

 

Playfully slapping his arm, Khushi laughed.

 

“There was no way I was going to watch that with you Raizada.”

 

Putting the film on, Khushi grabbed hold of a blanket and draped it over herself and offered it to Arnav as well. They both settled down and watched the film.

 

*****

 

Light peaked through the curtain and the phone rang in the distance. Arnav’s eyes stung as he forced them open. He began to get out off of the sofa but the phone stopped ringing so he settled back down again, closing his eyes.

A moment later however, Arnav’s eyes snapped back open and he looked around. His head was resting on Khushi’s butt! He had used Khushi’s bottom as a pillow. How? When? When had they even fallen asleep?

Arnav lifted his head and made to get off the sofa when Khushi started stirring.

 

“Mm… Arnav.”

 

She rolled over and then went back to sleep. Arnav looked at her. What was that? Was she… Was she having a dream about him? Shaking the though away, Arnav grabbed the towel and went into the bathroom.

Stripping all his clothes away, Arnav stepped into the large shower enclosure and turned the water on. He stood under the water, letting it cascade down his body. Running his hands through his wet hair, Arnav’s thoughts fluttered back to Khushi. Their journey here, their small talk, the way she had laughed whilst watching the cartoon film. The way her eyes lit up when the minions hit the screen. And then his thoughts travelled further back in time, to the time when he and Khushi spent some quality time in the back seat of his car. He thought about how her skin had felt against his, how she’d wrapped her legs around him, and he couldn’t help wondering how it would feel to have her completely naked body against his… To have her naked body move in time with his…

Arnav balled up his fists and slammed one into the wall. He couldn’t think like this, he shouldn’t think like this. But hearing her almost moan his name in her sleep did something to him and now he couldn’t stop thinking about her and all the things he wished he could do with her.

Tipping his head back slightly, Arnav willed for the thoughts to go away, but they didn’t. His mind was going into overdrive and he could feel something going on with him down there.

Arnav looked down, and sure enough he was hardening.

 

“Fuck.”

 

Turning the temperature of the water all the way down, Arnav realised that a cold shower was all that could help him right now.

 

*****

 

Once his cold shower was done and he felt refreshed, Arnav reached out for his towel and wrapped it around his waist and left the bathroom.

 

“Oh shit!”

 

Khushi covered her eyes and Arnav turned around.

 

“I’m so sorry! I don’t usually have to get dressed before getting out of the bathroom.”

“It’s fine, it’s fine. It’s not an issue.”

 

Arnav rushed over to the wardrobe and grabbed hold of some clothes and rushed back towards the bathroom, but he hit his knee against the bed.

 

“Fuck!”

 

Arnav sat down on the bed and rubbed his knee. Khushi rushed forward and sat down.

 

“Are you okay?”

“I’m fine, just give me a second.”

“Let me see the damage.”

 

Kneeling down before him, Arnav showed Khushi where he hurt himself.

 

“Do you want me to get you some ice?”

“No, I’ll be fine. Let me just go and get dressed.”

 

Arnav got up and made his way off to the bathroom. Khushi sat down onto the bed and bit her lip. She may have only got a quickly glance, but she couldn’t get the image of water running down his hard body out of her mind. His tousled hair, how strong his arms and his chest looked. Though she only saw a bit of Arnav’s legs, she was certain his legs were powerful and muscular. How she wanted to touch his hard, wet body, how she wanted to brush away the water that was running down his body. How she wanted to explore his body further, see what he had hidden under the towel…

Khushi lay down on her bed and let out a huge sigh. She felt for Arnav in a way she’d never felt for anyone before. The physical attraction was obviously there, but she loved him as a person too. The way he thought, how caring he was, his business acumen. Everything about him was so attractive and she wanted him so bad. But Khushi knew she couldn’t. A relationship with Arnav would put too much at risk and she couldn’t risk it. But she wanted him, her body ached for him.

She’d never had him before, yet her body craved him. She wanted to feel his hardness against her softness. She wanted to be able to hold him close and bask in his warmth. But she couldn’t. The world had a funny way of playing games and this was one game she didn’t want to play. But she had to. If her and Arnav got into a relationship, it would make a mess of everything, wouldn’t it? Surely they couldn’t have a good working relationship while they were in a personal relationship? It would never work out, right?

 

A Sister’s Sacrifice

 

“Tho baath pakki hai. Hamari Chote aur aapka Payal bitya.” (So it’s settled. Our Chote and your Payal bitya)

 

Unable to take any more, Khushi got up from the sofa, made an excuse about tea and went rushing into the kitchen. She couldn’t deal with what was happening right under her nose. Arnav ji and jiji… How fate played games with her always.

 

*Flashback*

 

Arnav wrapped his arm around Khushi who looked around them nervously.

 

“Arnav ji, let me go, someone will see us.”

“Let then see, I’m not hiding us any more, I’m going to tell everyone about us.”

“But…”

“No buts. I’m going to marry you Khushi.”

 

Eyes wide, Khushi took his words in and blushed before hiding her face in his chest.

 

“I love you Khushi.”

“I… I love you too Arnav ji…”

 

Cupping her face, Arnav lifted her face to his and moved towards her, closing the distance between their lips…

 

*Flashback end*

 

How had it all gone wrong? This was meant to be her shagun day, but it wasn’t. It was her jiji’s. Arnav was meant to tell his family about their relationship, that they were in love with each other and that they wanted to marry. But somehow instead of picking her, they had picked Payal. Somehow, despite being the one who was around the Raizada family, they picked Payal over her to be their daughter in law. Did they not think she was good enough for their family?

Tears pricked Khushi’s eyes as she really took in what was happening. The love of her life was going to marry her sister…

Holding onto the worktop, Khushi steadied herself. She felt weak, shattered, broken… She held the worktop out of fear that her legs would give way and collapse. Tears flowed down her face. Everything was ruined.

Rushing into the kitchen, Arnav moved over to Khushi, placing his hand on her shoulder.

 

“Khushi, I really don’t understand how…”

 

Arnav began to explain that he was going to tell Di about his and Khushi’s relationship when Di approached him instead.

 

*Flashback*

 

“Di, you here?”

“Haan Chote, I’ve come to talk to you about something very important.”

“What is it Di? Are you okay?”

 

Smiling, Anjali put her hand on Arnav’s shoulder and led him into his room, gesturing him to take a seat.

 

“I was just with Nani and we were just discussing your marriage…”

“About that…”

“Me and Nani were just saying how we think a certain Miss Gupta might just be what you and this family needs.”

 

Looking up to his Di, Arnav felt a little shocked.

 

“How did you…”

“I’m your Di. I know. So what do you say?”

 

Looking down, Arnav smiled to himself. He had been so careful to make sure no one found out about him and Khushi, but it seemed they hadn’t gone unnoticed.

 

“Oho look how much my Chote is blushing. Should I assume that means yes?”

“Yes.”

 

Getting to her feet, Anjali clapped her hands together before throwing her arms around her brother.

 

“I can’t believe you’ve agreed! Wait until I go and tell Nani!”

 

Anjali left the room, beaming for ear to ear. Arnav couldn’t help but beam too. Khushi was his choice and she was his family’s choice as well. It was all going the right way for once…

 

*Flashback end*

 

“But I’m going to go back out there and explain. Don’t worry, I’ll sort this.”

“No!”

 

Eyes wide with a frantic expression, Khushi took hold of Arnav’s hand to stop him from turning away, but then dropped his hand again almost instantly.

 

“You can’t tell anyone.”

“But Khushi…”

“You can’t.”

“But if I don’t say something, my marriage with Payal is going to go ahead.”

 

Turning away to try and hide her tears, Khushi realised what she needed to say and do.

 

“You can’t say anything to anyone, you have to go through with all of this.”

“But Khushi…”

“No, no buts Arnav ji. Jiji’s marriage didn’t happen once before because of me, we can’t… I can’t do that to her again.”

“I understand that, but this is different. We love each other, how can I possibly marry your sister?”

“You have to. Jiji has agreed to this marriage, she accepts, she’s interested. I can’t… We can’t…”

 

Wiping her tears away, Khushi turned back to Arnav.

 

“We just have to push our feelings away, forget about our relationship and try and move forward.”

“How can you say that? How can you expect me to do that? You want me to forget about you and marry your sister? Are you crazy! How am I meant to forget about everything that has been going on between us for the last couple of months? Do you know how messed up that is?”

 

Turning her back to him again so he wouldn’t see her tears, Khushi nodded her head.

 

“I know it’s going to be hard but…”

“But nothing! I can’t marry Payal!”

“You have to! I can’t let her life get ruined again because of me.”

“But if we don’t tell the truth about our feelings, if we don’t stop this, then we’d still be ruining Payal’s life. Would you not rather she just be hurt now for a short time, instead of hurt for the rest of her life because she’s married to a man who loves her sister?”

“You’ll have to move on and learn to accept Jiji.”

 

Running his hand through his hair, Arnav couldn’t believe she was being like this. Was her love for her sister that strong that she was willing to give up her love for the sake of her sisters happiness?

 

“Arnav ji… Forget about me. Our relationship, it’s over.”

“I can’t.”

“You have to. Please…”

 

Taking his hands into her own, Khushi looked up into Arnav’s eyes, pleading. Pulling his hands away from her, he turned and marched away. This was insane. She’d totally lost it.

 

*****

 

“Are you okay Khushi? You’ve been so quiet all evening.”

 

The Raizada’s had left and the Gupta family had all retreated to their individual bedrooms.

 

“I’m fine.”

“Are you sure? You looked really pale earlier. Are you falling ill?”

“I’m fine Jiji, really. Don’t worry about me at all.”

 

Whether or not Payal realised that Khushi was lying, she chose not to question Khushi any further and picked up a sari that the Raizada’s had gifted her.

 

“This is such a pretty sari isn’t it?”

“Hm.”

“Can you believe this is happening Khushi? I mean, I, Payal Gupta, am marrying Arnav Singh Raizada! Can you believe it?”

 

Noting the excitement in Payal’s voice, Khushi smiled briefly before turning away.
Walking over to where Khushi was sitting, Payal placed her hand on Khushi’s shoulder.

 

“I know you and Arnav ji have had your problems before, but I’m so glad you’re both friends now.”

“Were not friends…”

“I mean you don’t argue all the time like before. It would have been a problem if you did, after all he’s going to be your Jijaji.”

 

Khushi noted how Payal was blushing. She should tease her sister, but she couldn’t bring herself to do it. How could she possibly tease her sister about the man she loved. The man who she thought she was going to marry. She couldn’t do it. Not yet anyway.

 

“You know Khushi, when Buaji told me about the proposal, I was so nervous. Arnav ji just seems so… Intense. And I guess I still feel like he is but…”

 

Intense… That’s the word Payal used to describe him. If only she knew just how intense he really was…

 

*Flashback*

 

Arnav had taken Khushi to the farmhouse under the pretence of work and now they lay on the bed of his bedroom. His hand locked with hers as he placed a line of kisses on her neck. Hands fisted in his hair, Khushi held him close to herself as she hooked one leg into his.

 

“Arnav ji…”

 

He silenced her by slanting his lips over hers, taking her in a soul consuming kiss. Their lips duelled for dominance as their hands caressed the others body, their body’s moving against the others, their need for each other evident.

 

Breaking the kiss, Arnav groaned and pulled away.

 

“I can’t wait to marry you. Having to stop myself is driving me crazy. I want to be with you…”

 

His hand moved down her body, touching her breasts lightly. Khushi knew exactly what he mean and how he wanted to be with her. She wanted that too. When they got intimate like this, it was becoming harder and harder to pull away, to stop themselves from taking things further.

 

“I can’t wait to be able to carry you into my bed and make love to you all night long. I swear Khushi… Our wedding night…”

 

Blushing, Khushi rolled into him, hiding her face in his chest. The thought of their wedding night and taking things further caused her body to feel like she was going up in flames.

 

“I can’t wait either…”

 

*Flashback end*

 

Realising that their wedding night would now never arrive, Khushi felt her eyes well up with tears again. Getting to her feet, she rushed into the bathroom.

 

“Khushi…”

 

Slamming the door behind her, Khushi leaned against the door and let her tears fall.

 

*****

 

Putting all her feelings aside, Khushi began to come to terms with the fact that she wasn’t going to marry Arnav. It hurt, but she got used to the hurt. There was nothing else she could do.

Wedding preparations were in full swing now, and Khushi partook in everything that was happening with as much enthusiasm as she could. It was hard, but seeing the happiness on her sister’s face, Khushi got over what she was feeling.

She had managed to avoid Arnav, even though it had been crazy hard. He was everywhere. Either he’d turn up at her house and openly tell everyone that he needed to see her, or he would constantly call her until she needed to switch her phone off. Every time he pulled such a stunt, she felt herself break all over again, her need to be with him taking over her. But she has to resist it all, for her jiji’s sake.

 

*****

 

“Jiji you go na! I’ll wait outside.”

“Come on Khushi! You need to help me!”

 

Dragging Khushi by the hand, Payal forced her to come into the lingerie shop with her. This was too much for Khushi. How could she possibly help her sister pick out lingerie. That too to impress Arnav.

 

“Jiji please, I don’t feel comfortable.”

“Oh ho Khushi! Why are you acting like you don’t wear underwear? Anyway, you should buy some stuff for yourself. After my wedding, buaji will start looking for a groom for you!”

“I don’t want to get married.”

 

Stopping in her tracks, Payal stopped to look at her sister.

 

“What do you mean you don’t want to get married? It was only a few weeks ago you were telling me all your wedding plans. And now?”

“I just don’t want to.”

 

It was obvious to Payal that something was wrong with Khushi. She lost her spark, she was always quiet and she seemed so distant. And no matter how many times Payal asked, Khushi wouldn’t tell her anything. She was starting to become concerned but she didn’t know what she should do.

Choosing to drop the matter for now, Payal picked up some sexy night dresses and held them against herself to show Khushi.

 

“What do you think? Should I get this?”

“I told you I don’t want to do this! Why can’t you leave me alone!”

 

Running out of the shop, Khushi held her tears back. Upon reaching a bench she sat down and looked up.

 

“Why Devi Maiyya are you testing me like this? Why are you punishing me? I have never done anything wrong then why… If you are punishing me for getting close to Arnav ji outside of marriage, I’m sorry, but please, stop playing with me like this! I know I should’ve kept my distance but still… I haven’t actually done anything sinful with him… Please stop punishing me like this. Please…”

 

*****

 

As the date of the wedding got nearer and nearer, Arnav became more and more frantic. He needed to stop the wedding, he couldn’t marry Payal. He had been trying to talk to Khushi, so that they could work something out together, but she wasn’t willing to speak to him.

Pacing his bedroom, Arnav ran his hand through his hair. He needed to work something out. But without Khushi’s co-operation, he didn’t see himself getting out of this situation. And he didn’t want to go against Khushi’s wishes and tell everyone the truth about his and Khushi’s relationship.

Why was everything such a mess? And to make matters worse, the Raizada’s and Gupta’s had decided that the best location for the wedding was the farmhouse. Arnav had tried to suggests other locations, but everyone was set on the farmhouse. Arnav couldn’t do it. He couldn’t get married at the farmhouse and he couldn’t spend the first night with Payal in the bedroom where he and Khushi got intimate numerous times.

 

*Flashback*

 

“Arnav ji we need to stop doing this.”

“Doing what?”

“Coming here… And doing this.”

 

Placing kisses down the valley between her breasts, Khushi giggled as Arnav’s stubble tickled her.

He moved lower down her body, placing kisses just above her belly button. Khushi’s hand clenched in Arnav’s hair as she felt a weird feeling brewing in the pit of her belly.

He came back over her, lying beside her on the bed and threw his arm around her midsection. Khushi grabbed hold of the blanket and covered their half naked bodies.

 

“We’re coming to your house tomorrow. And within the month we’re going to be married.”

“I can’t believe this is happening.”

“The next time we get intimate like this, we won’t have to stop. I won’t have to stop myself from taking your underwear off.”

“Arnav ji…”

“I can’t wait to hear you moan my name when I’m buried deep in your body.”

 

Blushing redder than she had ever done before, Khushi buried her face in Arnav’s chest.
Soon, soon they would be one.

 

*Flashback end*

 

Running his hand through his hair, Arnav didn’t know how he was meant to deal with this. Life was a shambles.

 

*****

 

The wedding day was finally upon them. Payal was taking a bath, and Khushi took the time for herself. She had been sat on the bed, looking at the wedding lengha and felt a sudden urge to put it on. Payal had only just gone into the bathroom so she had time.

She struggled a bit to get it on, but she managed it and looked at herself in the mirror. The lengha was in the deepest shade of red with a heavy golden boarder. Even without all the jewellery she felt weighed down, she felt like a princess. A bride fit for Arnav Singh Raizada. Looking at her hands adored with dark mendhi, she found the A tattooed on her skin. Tears fell onto her hands as she realised that this was a mare dream and nothing more. She would never be Arnav’s bride, never ask him to find his letter on her hands. He’d never be responsible of taking this heavy lengha off of her.

Khushi remained in front of the mirror, staring at herself and wishing hard that this were her reality. But no amount of wishing or praying would change the fact that this wasn’t her wedding day and that she would now never be able to marry Arnav.

Stood there in front of the mirror, Khushi lost track of time. When Payal came out of the bathroom, she was slightly confused to find Khushi stood in her lengha, tears flowing down her face.

 

“Khushi?”

 

Snapping out of her daydream, Khushi looked at Payal with big eyes. Now she was done for.

 

“Jiji I…”

“What are you doing?”

“I’m sorry… I just…”

 

Starting to cry again, Khushi felt her world crash down around her. How was she going to explain herself now?

 

“Hey hey, don’t cry.”

 

Rushing over to her sister’s side, she took Khushi into her arms and held her close.

 

“I’m not going to say anything. There’s nothing wrong with you wearing my dress. I don’t mind.”

“Are you… Are you sure?”

“Of course Khushi. Waise bhi you look so beautiful in it.”

 

Mumbling a word of thanks, Khushi went behind the little wooden sectioned off bit to get changed. As she took the lengha off, it felt like she was letting her soul go with it.

 

*****

 

“Aw my Chote looks so handsome.”

 

Arnav smiled at his Di as she faffed around with his sherwani and his turban. The smile he had plastered on his face was one that had been on his face for the last week. He had been trying to work out how to get out of this, but he hadn’t come out with anything yet. The only way he could avoid this marriage is if he told the truth about himself and Khushi, and she had forbidden him from doing that. He couldn’t get out of it…

 

*****

 

The Gupta’s had been directed to two bedrooms so that they could get ready as there was some time before the wedding.

Helping Payal into her lengha, Khushi felt the tears in her eyes once more. How had the tears not stopped yet, how did she still have so many tears?

 

“You look like a princess Jiji.”

“Thank you Khushi. Are you sure? Do you think… Do you think he…”

 

Watching Payal blush, Khushi felt a sick feeling in her stomach. Her sister wanted to impress Arnav, wanted Arnav to be impressed. After all why wouldn’t she want that? She was going to marry him.

 

“Jiji I need to go out to get some air. I feel really hot.”

 

Nodding, Payal let Khushi go. She rushed out of the bedroom, and walked down the corridor so that she could leave. She couldn’t do this. She couldn’t be here while her sister and her love got married.

Just as she was walking passed Arnav’s bedroom, he opened the door and stuck his head out of the room. Upon seeing each other, they both stopped.

 

“Khushi…”

 

Making to rush away, Arnav grabbed hold of Khushi’s hand, pulling her to himself, placing his arm around her waist.

 

“Let me go. Please.”

“Talk to me.”

“There’s nothing to talk about.”

“Khushi please.”

 

Pulling herself away from him, Khushi turned away and rushed down the stairs. Payal, who had been standing at the doorway of her door, saw the little interaction between Arnav and Khushi and couldn’t help but feel confused. What on earth was that about? What was going on?

 

*****

 

As Arnav and Payal took to the mandap, both their eyes sought out Khushi. But she hadn’t come back yet. After seeing Arnav and Khushi together, alarm bells had started going off in Payal’s head and she started to piece things together. But nothing was making sense. She wanted to speak to Arnav, but she hadn’t had the opportunity to talk to him. And now they were at the mandap, she couldn’t ask him anything now, not with everyone looking at them.

 

“You okay?”

“I am… It’s just Khushi… I don’t know where she is.”

 

Arnav looked away and it further solidified Payal’s suspicions.

 

“Maybe it’s better if she isn’t here.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

 

Not responding, Arnav looked away, waiting to get the show on the road. But Payal couldn’t. Were Arnav ji and Khushi… But surely they would’ve said something if they were?

Payal felt confused, a million thoughts crossed her mind as she tried to make sense of it all. But she couldn’t make sense of it. She didn’t know what to think. She needed to ask him. She needed to know. She couldn’t go through with this with any doubt in her mind.

 

“Arnav ji, I need to speak to you.”

 

Looking around, Arnav moved a little closer, offering his ear.

 

“No I need to speak to you in private.”

“But now?”

“It can’t wait.”

 

Arnav flagged his Di down and let her know that he and Payal needed to quickly talk about something.

 

“But now Chote? It’s nearly time to get started.”

 

But before Arnav could respond, Anjali nodded as she helped Payal to her feet and directed them to one of the rooms. She told them to make sure that they were quick.

Once inside the room, Arnav shut the door and approached Payal.

 

“What’s the matter, is everything okay?”

“I don’t know. That’s what I want to ask you, is everything okay?”

 

Arnav looked at Payal, slightly confused as to what she was trying to ask him.

 

“What do you mean?”

“You and Khushi.”

 

Payal watched as the colour drained from Arnav’s face as he realised what she was asking. Stepping closer to Arnav, Payal looked up at him, a pleading expression on her face.

 

“Please, tell me the truth. Is there something going on between you and Khushi?”

“I…”

 

Arnav thought about all the times Khushi had said that Payal couldn’t find out about them, that their relationship was now over and so there was no point talking about it. But Payal knew and it would be wrong to lie to her. He couldn’t deceive her. He couldn’t build a relationship with her by starting out with a lie.

 

“Just tell me.”

“We… We were in a relationship, we were in love with each other and when I agreed to this marriage, I thought I would be marrying Khushi. But when I realised the error, Khushi stopped me from rectifying the situation. You were interested in this rishta and Khushi didn’t want to take that away from you. I don’t even know how my family came to the conclusion that you and I would be right for each other, especially when we have never really interacted, but they did. They picked you for me over Khushi, and she wants me to give this relationship a fair chance, for your sake.”

“But you love each other.”

“Khushi ended our relationship on the day of the shagun. I haven’t been able to speak to her since.”

“But do you still love each other?”

“I still love her, I don’t know if she still feels the same way about me.”

“How could she… How could she not say anything?”

“She said your last rishta broke down because of her, she didn’t want to be the reason for this rishta breaking as well. She told me our relationship was over and that I should learn to move forward with you.”

“So this marriage… Will you actually accept our marriage and try to move forward with me.”

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t.”

 

This evidently must have been the wrong answer because Payal looked appalled.

 

“Does Khushi mean that little to you? You’re willing to marry me and move forward with me when you were in a relationship with my sister. When you claim you were in love with her and wanted to marry her?”

“It’s because Khushi means the world to me that I am willing to move forward. Khushi’s happiness lies in your happiness Payal. If I can keep you happy, then it means that I would be keeping Khushi happy too.”

 

Turning away, Payal raised her hand to her head, trying to comprehend everything that was happening.

 

“Payal, I know this is a lot to take in moment before we get married. But I promise you, I will be faithful to you.”

“But Khushi! What about Khushi?”

 

Arnav felt his heart break. His heart broke for Khushi, who he knew had so many dreams linked with him and his heart broke for Payal who was hurting because her sister hid the truth from her and was ready to sacrifice so much for her.

 

“I can’t marry you Arnav ji. I can’t. Say today we get married and everything goes well. But one day we may have children together, one day we may be happy together… But Khushi. I can’t do that to her. Her first love… I can’t rub it in her face like that. Khushi’s strong, but I don’t think she would be able to deal with that. And I cant lose her.”

“So what now? What are we meant to do?”

“We need to find Khushi.”

 

Arnav nodded. Payal was right. They couldn’t go forward with this. They needed to find Khushi and they needed to talk some sense into her. But where was she? And how were they meant to find her before everyone started to come looking for them?

Arnav was stressed, but the moment they opened the door to try to go and find Khushi, there was was, standing in the doorway.

 

“Khushi!”

 

Throwing her arms around her sister, Payal held Khushi close to herself, letting her tears fall.

 

“Jiji…”

“You crazy girl! How could you… Where did you go? I thought you weren’t going to be back.”

“I just needed to…”

 

Breaking the hug, Payal turned her attention to Arnav who was looking at Khushi with longing in his eyes.

 

“Arnav ji, could you go outside and wait for us please, I need to talk to Khushi quickly.”

“The wedding…”

“Don’t tell anyone anything yet. Please just wait at the mandap while I speak to Khushi.”

 

Nodding, Arnav left and Payal shut the door behind him.

 

“Jiji what’s going on?”

“I know the truth!”

“Which truth?”

“Yours and Arnav ji’s.”

“He told you?”

“He didn’t need to. I realised. What were you thinking Khushi? How could you just… How could you give up your first love for me? Not just your first love, but your true love? You planned a future with him and you were… You were ready to sacrifice all of that for my sake? Are you… How can you be that selfless Khushi?”

 

Tears flowed down both Khushi and Payal’s face as Khushi explained everything that had been goon through her head.

Holding her sister close, Payal listened as Khushi cried.

 

“You really are Sanka Devi. How could you possibly sacrifice so much for me? I understand why you were doing it, but Arnav ji… How could you do that that to him? How could you do that to yourself? Did you not think how hard it would be for you to see me and him together?”

“All I was thinking about what you Jiji.”

“Pagli. How did you think I could ever be happy at your expense? Maybe one day me and Arnav ji may have been happy. Maybe he would one day accept me whole heartedly. But just as he’s your first love, you are his. And I don’t think any of us would have been happy if me and him got married. Not really… Not truly happy, the way we all deserve to be.”

“What are you saying Jiji?”

“I’m saying, let’s get all this sorted and get this show on the road…”

 

*****

Finally reemerging from the room, everyone looked between the bride and her sister in confusion. But after a quick explanation of the circumstances, the wedding was finally ready to go ahead.

The couple did all the rituals that were needed and were soon pronounced man and wife…

 

*****

 

Locking the bedroom door, Arnav smiled as he walked over to the bed where his blushing bride was waiting for him.

 

“So in the end, it all worked out for you and me.”

 

Khushi smiled as Arnav came towards her. She had been completely convinced that their relationship was over and done with but now… They were about to start a new relationship. Thanks to her Jiji. Payal called off her marriage for Khushi’s sake. Her sister sacrificed her own rishta for her sake. Khushi watched as Arnav slowly stripped out of his sherwani and dropped his trousers. He came onto the bed, moving towards her slowly.

 

“Our first night… I thought I’d take my time, letting you undress me and then me undress you. But after what we went through, almost losing you… I can’t wait. I just want to make you mine now.”

“Please, just make me yours…”

 

*****

 

A rapid knock on the door woke Arnav up. Looking beside him, he smiled at the slumbering, naked form beside him. Last night had been intense. Definitely not what he had expected for their first night, but given the circumstances, it was understandable why there had been such a sense of urgency between them.

Covering Khushi properly with the silky blankets, Arnav pulled his trousers on and went to open the bedroom door.

 

“Good morning Chote, you took your time. Did I disturb anything?”

 

Laughing, Arnav pushed the door open so Di could see Khushi was still sleeping.

 

“You woke me up. She’s still fast asleep.”

“Was she okay? I mean given the circumstances and how suddenly everything changed?”

“She was a bit unsettled for a while, she kept thinking about Payal but she was okay afterwards.”

“It’ll be hard for her for a while. She was so ready to give you up for her sister and now to have you but at the expense of her sisters happiness…”

“Can you believe she was willing to walk away front our relationship for the sake of Payal? I never believed that people could be that selfless.”

“She has a big heart Chote. A very big heart. Always keep her happy and treasure her, people like Khushi are hard to come by.”

 

Smiling, Arnav looked over his shoulder to see his wife stretching. The sheets moved away from her body a little and rested just about her breasts. Arnav blushed as he shut the door slightly, covering Khushi from Anjali’s view.

 

“Looks like you’ve been doing a good job treasuring her.”

“Di!”

 

Sticking her tongue out, Anjali rushed away, shouting that Arnav and Khushi should be ready in an hours time for the pooja. Shutting the door, Arnav walked back over to the bed, letting his trousers and boxers fall to the floor. Getting into bed, he cuddled up to Khushi, placing light kisses on her neck, making her wake up.

 

“Hi.”

“Arnav ji…”

“You’re beautiful.”

 

Cuddling up to Arnav, Khushi pressed her face into his chest, inhaling his scent. Khushi made a mental pact to herself. She was never take this man for granted. She’d never stop being grateful for him. And she’d never stop letting her sister know just how much she appreciated her sacrifice. And she would always make sure that she would always love her sister more than anyone else in this world. Payal had given her the biggest gift someone could ever give anyone.

 

The gift of a happily ever after.

Jalebi ~ Part 11

Inches apart, their breaths were mingling with each other’s, their lips ever so close, so ready to connect. But alas, Arnav’s phone began to ring. Both Arnav and Khushi’s eyes open and they jump apart. Khushi took a step back from Arnav and ran her hand through the hair. This needed to stop, she needed to stop letting herself get caught up in moments like this.

Arnav answered the phone and Khushi looked around. A man came walking towards her and handed her a Polaroid photograph.

 

“I like to take pictures of people there. I hope you don’t think that’s weird. I don’t keep any of the photos I take.”

 

Khushi had a look at the photo. It was of her and Arnav, stood where they are right now, in front of the beautiful waterfall. In the photo, they looked so absorbed in one another, so close to kissing.

 

“Thank you for this.”

“You’re welcome ma’am. I wish you and sir a long and happy marriage.”

 

The man walked away just as Arnav was disconnecting the call.

 

“Who was that?”

 

Khushi showed Arnav the photograph that the man had given her.

 

“That’s a really nice photo.”

 

Khushi nodded and went to put it in her bag.

 

“Are you keeping it?”

“Do you want it?”

“I mean…”

 

Arnav ran his fingers through his hair. He did want to keep it because he wanted a memento but seeing as she wanted it, it felt wrong to ask her for it.

 

“No it’s alright, you can keep it. Any way, that was a call from a member of the cabin crew. The aircraft is ready and we can start making our way back now. Unless of course there’s something else you want to see or if you just want to spend some more time here.”

“No I’m okay, we can start heading back if you want.”

 

Arnav nodded and he and Khushi slowly made their way back towards where their jet was. Arnav couldn’t help but think about the almost kiss that they had shared. Khushi kept the photo! Did that mean she had feelings for him and that she wanted to hold onto what almost happened between them? Arnav shook his head, he couldn’t think about this, he couldn’t stress himself out over this. Khushi had made it very clear that she wanted herself and Arnav to be friends and maintain a professional relationship. He couldn’t assume something like this. But he wished he could ask her, just find out once and for all what was going on in her mind, but how could he ask her?

 

*****

 

Arnav and Khushi had returned to the jet and they were strapped in, ready for take off.
Once the jet had taken off, Arnav took his seatbelt off and waited as Khushi did the same.

 

“So it’s a 7 hour flight, I was thinking of going and taking a nap, is that okay with you?”

“Yeah sure! You take a nap, I’m going to check my emails and then I’m going to watch some tv.”

 

Arnav nodded as he made his way over to the bedroom whereas Khushi stayed in the main area and pulled her laptop out. She used the inflight wifi to check her emails and she replied to her messages from Payal, sending her pictures of the jet.

Once Khushi was all up to date with her business emails, she decided to see what films were on. There was a vast range of films that she could choose from, and decided to watch the remake of Beauty and the Beast. Khushi crossed her legs and got comfortable on the sofa and draped a blanket over herself as she got comfortable and ready to watch the film.

She watched the film, taking in everything that happens and when the film ended, she wiped away a tear of happiness.

Switching the TV off, Khushi decided to go and see if Arnav was awake yet. She got off her sofa and walked into the bedroom area to find Arnav all curled up in the bed, fast asleep.

Khushi walked over to the bed and sat down beside him and watched him sleep. He looked so different sleeping. His features were relaxed and his hair flopped over his eyes and he almost looked like a child. Khushi reached out and pushed his hair out of his eyes and smiled, he really was so very adorable. Arnav’s eyes fluttered open slightly as her hand left his face and he smiled.

 

“Hi.”

“Hey.”

“Do you want to lie down for a bit?”

“No, I’m okay.”

“How long until we land?”

“Over 4 hours still.”

“You should lie down and rest for a bit.”

“Really it’s okay, you relax.”

“Khushi, I need to get up and do some work any way. You rest.”

 

Khushi smiled and nodded. She was tired and would like to lie down. She moved on to the bed and sat on it.

 

“Is it okay if I just lie here for a few more moment?”

“Of course, it’s a big enough bed for both of us.”

 

Khushi lay down, facing away from Arnav. He lay there, staring at her back, smiling to himself. Almost as soon as Khushi’s head had hit the pillow. Her eyes fluttered shut and she went off to sleep.

 

*****

 

Somehow Arnav staying in bed for another couple of minutes, turned into another 2 hour nap. Arnav rubbed his eye and went to move off the bed when he realised he was being held down. Arnav looked to his side as his eyes widened.

Khushi was lying beside him, well more on top of him than beside him. Her head was resting on his chest, her arm around his midsection, and her leg up on his leg, her knee laying against his crotch. How had this happened? Did Khushi realise?

As much as Arnav wanted them to stay like this, he knew Khushi couldn’t wake up and find them like this. He gently picked up Khushi’s arm and placed it away from himself and then went to move her leg. But it was at that moment that Khushi’s eyes opened slowly and looked up.

Her eyes met with Arnav’s and she smiled. But her smile slipped away seconds later when she realised where they were. She jumped away from Arnav and sat on the edge of the bed, facing away from him.

 

“I’m so sorry, I don’t know what…”

“It’s okay, don’t worry about it.”

 

Khushi got to her feet and left the bedroom in a rush, all the while saying that she needed the bathroom to freshen up. Arnav watched as she left and ran a hand through his hair. Why was she so awkward when nothing even happened. It was no big deal? Arnav shook his head and went into the little bathroom attached to the bedroom and freshen up himself.

 

*****

 

“Sir, ma’am, if you would be like take your seats and fasten your belts, we will shortly be ready to begin our descend.”

 

Arnav and Khushi both made their way back to their seats and strapped themselves in.

 

“How do you feel to almost be home?”

“It actually feels so good. I didn’t realise how much I’d actually miss England.”

“Do you want to move back one day?”

“Maybe. I don’t know. I feel like India is the place for me to be right now. But I think my heart will always be in England, I don’t know.”

“Are you going to see your parents while you are here?”

“Yes of course! I was going to see them anyway, but I need to invite them for Payal and Akash’s wedding. I still can’t believe they’re getting married.”

 

Arnav smiled, not knowing what to say. He still didn’t know what game Akash was playing and if he really was marrying Payal because he loved her. But Arnav believed that if Akash really did love Payal as much as he thought he did, then he wouldn’t be marrying her just for his game.

 

“Do you think I can come with you to meet your parents?”

“What?”

“Can I meet your parents?”

 

Khushi was slightly thrown off at this request. Why did he want to meet her parents?

 

“Well I mean, were business partners now and you’re trusting me with part of your business now. I want to get your parents blessings so that we can proposer.”

 

Khushi smiled and nodded.

 

“I didn’t realise… But yes, of course you can meet them.”

“Where are you going to be staying while you’re here?”

“I’m going to stay at a hotel, I gave up my apartment the last time I left.”

 

Khushi thought for a moment.

 

“Wait, where are you going to stay?”

“I…”

“Arnav. Please don’t tell me you haven’t sorted accommodation out.”

 

Arnav looked at Khushi slightly sheepishly. Khushi rolled her eyes playfully at him.

 

“When we get to my hotel you can ask if they have a room. But it’s a popular hotel, in the heart of London so I have a feeling it won’t be likely that they will have a room. You always have to book there in advance.”

 

Before Arnav could say anything more, the plan was preparing for landing and so it suddenly got very loud around them. However before long, the plane landed and the cabin crew notified Arnav and Khushi that they could leave the jet.

 

*****

 

After completing security and claiming their baggage, Arnav and Khushi left Heathrow airport and were met with a man who was holding a card with Khushi’s name on.

Khushi walked over to him and greeted him.

 

“Arnav, this is Arjun, he’s my PA here. Arjun this is Arnav Singh Raizada. He decided to join me for the conference.”

 

Arjun gasped slightly but composed himself and shook Arnav’s hand.

 

“Mr Raizada! It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m such a fan of your work in the industry, I can’t believe I’m actually meeting you.”

“The pleasure is all mine.”

 

Once they were done with the initial pleasantries, they made their way to the car that was waiting for them. Arjun loaded up Arnav and Khushi’s bags and they were soon off.
The outer London traffic wasn’t too bad, but once they got into London city, they were stuck in traffic. The cars were not moving and it seemed that they wouldn’t get to the hotel until late evening.

 

“Arjun, how has everything been at the office? Has Rahul been able to handle everything?”

“You have nothing to worry about. Sir has everything under control, and he follows every instruction you send down to the tee.”

“That’s good. Is everyone working with him alright?”

“Yes, it’s easy to work with him, he isn’t a problematic boss, but of course, we all miss you ma’am.”

“Aw, I miss all of you as well. I was thinking of maybe coming into the office the day after tomorrow, just to see everyone and see how everything is going.”

“I’m sure they would all love to see you again.”

 

Arnav listened as Arjun and Khushi talked about her business. He’d always known Khushi was passionate about her work, but now listening to her talk to Arjun and Arjun talking about how everyone was missing it Khushi, it hit him just how good at her job she was, and just how much people respected her.

He couldn’t help but think back to high school when everyone, including himself, looked down on Khushi. She really did do everything she could to change that, and she had. She made a name for herself and made herself a respected boss that everyone listened to and loved.

After a good hour of slow moving traffic, they finally arrived at the hotel. Arjun got out of the car and took the bags out. He summoned for the doorman to come and take the bags.

 

“Ma’am will you and sir be okay to take it from here?”

“Yes we will be fine, thank you so much for collecting us.”

“It’s no problem ma’am. If you need anything else, please don’t hesitate to call me.”

“I won’t, thank you so much Arjun.”

 

Arjun left and Arnav and Khushi made their way into Strand Palace Hotel.

 

 

Arnav gazed up at the large hotel.

 

“Wow!”

“You haven’t seen anything yet.”

 

The doorman pushed the door open and Arnav and Khushi walked into the lobby of the grand hotel.

For once, it was Arnav who was lost for words. He took in the grand hotel. It’s not as though he hadn’t been in fancy hotels before but this somehow felt different to all the other ones he’d been to. The lobby was long, with a marble walkway, but red carpet surrounding it. There were also large red sofas, as well as tables and chairs were people were sat. Khushi walked up to reception and Arnav followed her.

 

“Hi, I have a reservation.”

“Name please?”

“Miss Khushi Kumari Gupta.”

“Ah yes and you’re going to be attending the conference that’s being held here tomorrow as well?”

“Yes I am.”

“Okay, just a second please.”

 

The desk clerk checked Khushi’s details and then handed her her key card. Khushi thanked the lady and then Arnav stepped up.

 

“Hi, I was wondering if there are any rooms available.”

“Just a second.”

 

The woman checked on her computer but a moment later looked up.

 

“I’m afraid we don’t have any rooms.”

“Nothing at all I’m afraid.”

“Not even a family room?”

“No sir, I’m sorry.”

 

Arnav turned to Khushi.

 

“Looks like I’ll have to find somewhere else to stay.”

 

Arnav started to turn away when Khushi stopped him.

 

“You can… I… You can stay in my room.”

 

 

 

 

 

Pardesi Pyaar ~ Part 15 ~ Last Part

The wedding was done, the ceremony was complete and Arnav and Khushi were finally man and wife. Khushi had been welcomed into the house as the bahu and the little post wedding games had been played.

Now Anjali was helping Khushi up the stairs, taking her to Arnav’s bedroom. Their marital bedroom.

 

“How are you feeling?”

“So nervous Di!”

“Aw, don’t worry, it’ll all be fine. Everyone feels nervous for their wedding night, just relax.”

 

Pushing the door open, Khushi’s eyes fell on their heavily decorated bed. Around the bed were drapes of gold and red, with petals adoring it.

 

“Do you like it? It took me and you jiju half the morning to get it sorted.”

“It’s beautiful.”

 

Helping Khushi over to the bed, Anjali sat her down on the middle of the bed and then fixed her lengha, pulling it out and placing it down around her.

 

“Di… I’m really scared.”‘

 

Anjali smiled and placed a hand on Khushi’s shoulder.

 

“Don’t worry, you have no reason to be afraid at all.”

 

Moving away, Anjali relit some of the candles that had gone out and made sure that everything was perfect. Khushi took this time to calm her breathing down and to get herself in check. Anjali was right. There was nothing to be afraid of. It’s not like she was about to spend the night with a complete stranger. She was about to spend the night and the rest of her life with a man she was very much in love with. She had been waiting for this moment for so long, there really was no need to be scared.

Once Anjali made sure that everything was perfect, she turned her attention back to Khushi.

 

“Are you okay now?”

“I’m fine, thank you.”

“Then should I go and get Chote?”

 

Blushing, Khushi nodded. She was ready for Arnav, ready for the most beautiful night of her life.
Anjali pressed a kiss on top of Khushi’s head, wished her the best and then went to go and get Arnav.

Sitting up straight, Khushi waited. Anjali brought Arnav back a moment later, but the wait felt so much longer.

 

“Happy suhaag raat.”

 

Anjali pushed Arnav into the room and then left. Turning his attention to his newly wedded wife, Arnav smirked, finally, they were married. Turning around, he locked the door and then came back over to the bed.

 

“Hey, you okay?”

 

Looking up, Khushi nodded shyly. She was okay, better than okay. She was married to the man she was in love with, the man, she at one point didn’t think she could ever be with.

Sitting down beside Khushi, Arnav took her hands in his own.

 

“You’re not tired or anything are you?”

“I’m not tired at all yet.”

“So we can…”

 

Arnav watched as Khushi bit down on her lip and as her cheeks turned bright red. He smirked as he moved in closer to her, closing the distance between them.

Finally, there was nothing holding them back, nothing stopping them from finally becoming one…

 

*****

 

“Arnav, come on! We need to get ready to board our flight now!”

 

Arnav quickly shovelled the last of his food into his mouth and then grabbed his carry on and got up.

A few days had passed since Arnav and Khushi wedding, and now they were ready to be off on their honeymoon! They had decided to go to Italy. It was one of the many countries Khushi really wanted to visit and Arnav too wanted to go there.

After much debate amongst themselves and with the family, it was decided that they would go on honeymoon for a full month. This was due to the fact that Ajay wanted Arnav to come back and start taking over responsibility for the business. And once that happened, it would mean that Arnav would be busy more often and he and Khushi would have less time to spend together.

Everyone had believed a one month honeymoon would be ideal as it would mean that they would be able to spend a lot of time together before they both got busy with their lives.

 

“I can’t wait to get to Italy! I’ve seen pictures of Italy since forever and I’ve always wanted to go.”

“I’m just excited to be able to spend all that extra time alone with you.”

 

Sliding his hand up her arm, Khushi understood exactly what he was trying to say. In the short time that they had been married, Khushi had found out that Arnav was extremely insatiable. No matter how many times they got intimate, as soon as they were done, he was ready for another round. Khushi wasn’t complaining though. She knew she wanted him as much as he wanted her, so she wasn’t complaining that he wanted to make love to her over and over and over again. And she also didn’t mind that they were going away for a whole month. Like Arnav, she too was looking forward to being able to spend the whole day in bed with him.

 

*****

 

“Arnav…”

 

Arms tightening around Arnav’s neck, as she felt her muscles clench around him. She was close and she knew he was too. Arnav pumped his length within her a few more times before they both reached their peak.

The moment arrived and they both climaxed together. A hot line if fluid left Arnav’s body and up Khushi’s channel.

Arms and legs going limp, Khushi’s limbs fell away from Arnav. He rolled off her, pulling her close and just laying beside her.

 

“You okay?”

 

Nodding, Khushi pressed a kiss on Arnav’s chest and moved in close to him, basking in the warmth of his body. Initially, after they made love, they wouldn’t cuddle because they both felt self conscious due to all the sweat on their body.

However, as time had passed, they cared less.

 

“Can you believe we’re going home in 2 days?”

“I know! I can’t believe that our month here is almost up.”

 

Arnav pressed a kiss on Khushi’s forehead and wrapped an arm around her.

 

“Just because we’re going home doesn’t mean anything is going to change. I still want to spend as much time with you in bed as possible.”

 

Blushing, Khushi muttered that that was what she wanted too, because it was. She loved spending time with Arnav just generally, or just sitting and having a chat with him, but she was happiest when they were wrapped together in an intimate embrace, when they couldn’t tell where one of them started and the other ended.

 

“I love you Khushi.”

“I love you too.”

 

*****

 

Arnav held back Khushi’s hair and rubbed her back as she threw up into the toilet. It was the fourth time I less than 3 hours that she’d thrown up and Arnav was starting to get concerned.

 

“I don’t understand why you’re throwing up so much, we both ate the same food at the restaurant last night and I’m completely fine.”

 

Lifting her head, she shrugged her shoulders.

 

“If you throw up one more time, we’re going to the doctors.”

“Arnav, there’s no need.”

“It isn’t normal to be sick so many times in one go, especially when you haven’t eaten anything that should cause you to be sick.”

 

Khushi had a slight suspicion as to what could be the cause of her illness, but she didn’t want to say anything to Arnav, not until she was sure any way. She didn’t understand how it could happen, especially when they had been so careful and she was taking the pill. So she couldn’t be…

Arnav and Khushi had now been married for just a little over 3 months and everything had been going perfectly. Arnav had settled into his dad’s business and Khushi had settled into life at the Raizada house. She connected well with both Payal and Anjali and was ever so grateful to find that they were still as kind and as helpful as they had been before the wedding.
Ma too was lovely and nothing like the typical mother in laws that were shown in Indian dramas.

In these three months, Arnav and Khushi had gotten even closer to each other. As Arnav had said before their honeymoon had ended, they had managed to make time for each other almost every evening and the fire between them was still burning as brightly as it had done when they first gotten married.

 

All of a sudden, Khushi felt sick once more and threw up. Arnav held her close, as she let it all out of her system. Once she was done, he pulled his phone out of his pocket and dialled for the doctor.

 

*****

 

“Congratulations Mr and Mrs Raizada, you are expecting a baby.”

 

Eyes wide, Arnav looked between Khushi and the doctor.

 

“But how? We used protection to begin with and Khushi’s been on the pill the whole time any way.”

“It happens sometimes. It’s not as uncommon as you’d think. A lot of people do fall pregnant even when they are on the pill. I would recommend you both go and get a full check up done as soon as Mrs Raizada is feeling a bit better.”

 

Arnav nodded and ushered the doctor out when she got up to take her leave. Dropping the doctor off at the door, he turned around and began making his way back to their bedroom when he was stopped by his mother.

 

“What’s wrong Chote, is everything okay with Khushi?”

“Everything’s fine, she just experiencing some morning sickness.

“Morning sickness? Is Khushi…”

“You’re going to be a dadi!”

“Oh Chote!”

 

Anaamika pulled her son into a big hug.

 

“That’s amazing news! I didn’t realise that either of you would want a baby so soon, but that’s lovely news.”

“I mean we weren’t planning a baby so soon, but if we’ve been blessed with a baby then we’ve been bless, nothing we can do about it.”

“Chote you go see to Khushi, check she’s okay. I’ll go and tell everyone and we’ll all be up to see her in a bit.”

 

Nodding, Arnav rushed up the stairs and towards his bedroom. Pulling open the door, he saw Khushi sat up in bed, her hand over her belly. She saw Arnav walk in and smiled. He sat down beside her and took her hand in his own.

 

“We’re going to be parents! Can’t you believe that?”

“I’m so sorry, I don’t understand how this happened. I’ve not missed a single one of my pills…”

“Sh… Why are you apologising? I know this isn’t what we planned but we’re being blessed with a baby. You don’t need to be sorry. A baby is a blessing from above.”

 

Letting out a breath of relief, Khushi hugged Arnav.

 

“I’m so nervous about the baby, but I guess I’m really excited as well.”

“Me too. I didn’t expect us to have a baby so soon, but I am excited. We’re going to have our own little person. Someone that’s half of me and half of you!”

 

Both sat close together, their hands interlinked over Khushi’s belly. Their baby couldn’t come soon enough.

 

*****

 

Laying back in the hospital bed, Khushi’s eyes welled with tears as she held her little girl in her arms for the first time. After a long, strenuous pregnancy, she could finally hold her little princess.

 

“Oh Arnav, she’s beautiful isn’t she.”

 

Arnav moved over to Khushi and took a seat beside her.

 

“They’re both beautiful, just like their mother.”

 

Handing the second baby over, Khushi peered down at both of her little girls at the same time and Arnav wrapped his hand around his extremely exhausted wife.

 

“I still can’t believe you had both of them inside you only a little while ago.”

“Truth be told, I can’t either.”

 

Both babies were tiny, weighing in at only 5 pounds each.

 

“Khushi, they look exactly the same don’t they?”

“They’re identical Arnav. Absolutely identical.”

 

Almost as though the little girls understood what their parents were saying, they both opened their little eyes.

 

“Arre dekho. They’re completely in sync with each other as well.”

 

Arnav chuckled and looked at his little girls. As he looked at them, he gasped as he took in their eyes.

 

“No Khushi look! They’re trying to show you that they aren’t completely identical. Baby on the left, her eyes are light like yours, but baby on the right has darker eyes like me.”

 

Taking in the eyes of their little girls, Khushi too noticed the difference. It was slight, no where near as extreme as the difference as hers and Arnav’s eyes, but the difference was clear.

 

“I always though identical twins had the exact same coloured eyes.”

“Apparently not!”

“Well this makes naming them easier.”

“How so Khushi?”

“Baby with lighter eyes, were going to name her with the name I picked, and baby with the darker eyes, we name her with the name you picked.”

 

Nodding, Arnav agreed that this was the best idea and the best way to go about this major decision.

 

“So it’s settled, baby on the left with the lighter eyes is Isha Singh Raizada and baby on the right with darker eyes is Arya Singh Raizada.”

“Isha and Arya Singh Raizada. Daughters of Arnav and Khushi Singh Raizada! How perfect.”

“Just like them.”

 

Wrapping his arm around his wife, Arnav placed a light kiss on Khushi’s lips and then placed a kiss on each of his daughters forehead.

Who would have thought the girl he met in a coffee shop in South Africa would become the love of his life and the mother of his children? Arnav thanked his lucky stars. A trip which he hadn’t wanted to go on became one of the best decisions of his life. Perhaps it was due to this that Durban, South Africa would forever hold an important place in his heart…

 

*The End*

 

Author’s Note

Well here it is you guys, the end of one journey. I would like to thank everyone who has followed this journey through with me. Thank you so much for all your support and love. As you all know, it means the world to me knowing that you guys enjoy what I am able to produce for you. I know a lot of people did want to see more twists and turns in this story, but I had always wanted to keep it simple and light hearted on account of the fact that all my other stories have much heavy storylines.

I would lastly like to thank Isha for giving me this story idea and for trusting me to do justice to her ideas. I probably wouldn’t have come up with the idea to set a story on South Africa myself. 

Again, thank you all. Make sure you all come back here tomorrow for another instalment of Jalebi, things are really starting to go places now and you do not want to miss out on that! Also, as we are reaching the end of the road for Fifty Shades of Raizada because I will be dropped updates left right and centre! So make sure you pay a visit regularly so you don’t miss the last leg of Fifty Shades!

 

Pardesi Pyaar ~ Part 14

She watched from the stairs as they walked into the house. She watched as they looked around in awe. Katie’s family had finally arrived, and so all the ceremonies for the wedding can now begin. Khushi had been waiting eagerly for Katie and her parents to arrive and now they were finally here!

Running down the stairs, Khushi threw herself into Katie’s arms, letting her tears flow.

 

“I’ve missed you so much Kay!”

“I’ve missed you too Khushi! The house is so quiet without you around and it just feels so weird not having you there all the time.”

 

Letting go of Katie, she hugged Katie’s mother too. She then took a step back and introduced Katie’s family to the Raizada’s and the Raizada’s to Katie’s family.
The Raizada’s welcomed Katie’s family into the house and led them over to the living room where they sat down.

 

“How have you been Khushi dear?”

“I’ve been great aunty! How have you been?”

“I have been well too my child, we’ve missed you so much.”

 

They were all just settling down, when there was another knock on the door. Katie turned to Arnav.

 

“Arnav I think you should go and open the door.”

 

Confused, Arnav walked over to the door and opened it. There before was none other than his good friend Karl!

 

“What the? What are you doing here?”

“I couldn’t miss your wedding bro!”

“I can’t believe you’re here!”

 

Hugging Karl, Arnav couldn’t believe this was happening. He’d told Karl on numerous occasions that he should come to the wedding, but Karl had kept saying that he probably wouldn’t be able to due to issues on his passport.

 

“So was there actually any issues with your passport then?”

“Nope! I just said that to you so I could surprise you.”

“Well I’m surprised bro! Come on in.”

 

Leading Karl into the living room, Khushi gasped the moment she saw him.

 

“Karl!? What are you doing here?”

“I couldn’t miss yours and Arnav’s wedding! So here I am!”

“I’m so glad you could come!”

 

Karl took a seat next to Arnav and Arnav introduced him to the boys of the family. They all got along so well right from the first moment. Khushi turned her attention to Katie.

 

“Did you know he was coming?”

“I did.”

“Why didn’t you tell me then?”

“He wanted to surprise you guys. Oh my goodness, I forgot to tell you something!”

“What happened?”

“I told mom and dad about me and Karl. And they’re cool with our relationship!”

“That’s great! I’m so happy for you!”

 

Everyone sat around and talked about everything under the sun. Khushi was so happy to have Katie and her family back and she was so happy that they would be here for all the wedding ceremonies. Now this wedding really could get going!

 

*****

 

There was only one night separating Arnav and Khushi from becoming man and wife. They were both excited, struggling to contain their feelings.
The Raizada’s and Katie’s family were all busy with last minute preps. Making sure that everything was sorted and ready so that the wedding would go on without a hitch.

The boys of the house were not busy with preparations, they were getting ready for the event of the decade, Arnav’s bachelors party.

 

“Jiju, you know you really shouldn’t be coming with us. Akash, you also shouldn’t be coming.”

“Bhai, its your bachelors party. We have to be there! Right jiju?”

“Right Saale Saab. We have to come to make sure you stay in line.”

 

Arnav rolled his eyes. He didn’t even want this party, he didn’t need to go out and make the most of his last night as being a bachelor. He just wanted to be with Khushi. But Karl, Akash, Shyam Jiju and their cousin NK for Australia all wanted a bachelors party, so he couldn’t say no.

 

*****

 

“So you’re really having a bachelors party?”

“Yep.”

“Really?”

“If you don’t want me to you should’ve said so ages ago. I’ve been asking you since the start.”

“I know it’s just… Don’t do anything reckless.”

 

Kissing the top of her head, he reassured her that he wouldn’t do anything stupid.

 

*****

 

The boys had been gone for just about an hour now and Khushi was getting anxious. She knew what went down at bachelors parties and as much as she trusted Arnav, she didn’t trust those who would be around him.
Before plans about the bachelors party had been made, the plan had been that all the the youngsters of the family would have a party together. Khushi looked around her, Payal, Anjali and Katie all looked bored.

 

“Girls, I have an idea.”

 

Anjali’s eyes lit up.

 

“What what?”

“What do you guys think about gatecrashing the boys bachelors party?”

 

Katie clapped her hands, loving the idea, whereas Payal and Anjali looked at each other, slightly wary.

 

“Khushi… I don’t know… The boys might not appreciate us just going there.”

“But jiji! Wouldn’t you rather them be annoyed than finding out that Akash Bhai was doing something he shouldn’t.”

 

Gasping, Payal nodded frantically.

 

“You’re right Khushi. We shouldn’t trust these boys. Di, I think Khushi is right, I think we should.”

“But Payal…”

“Di, you know what they’re like when they get together. Do you remember what happened last time Akash and Arnav bhai took jiju out?”

 

Anjali raised her hand to her mouth as she gasped, recalling the antics of their last boy’s night out. Getting to her feet, she told everyone to quickly go and get ready. They were going to the farmhouse.

 

*****

 

Arriving at the farmhouse, the girls all made sure that they looked presentable and then Anjali led them to the door.

 

“Now ladies, if they’re a mess, we need to teach them a good lesson. Deal?”

 

All nodding, they made their way into the farmhouse.
The music was loud and the lights were low. But the house was empty. They followed the music to where it was the loudest and there they found the boys. Just the five of them, on their own, with bottles of beer around them.

Arnav was the first to notice the new arrivals and got to this feet.

 

“What are you guys doing here?”

 

Anjali stepped forward.

 

“We came to check on you boys.”

“Di, how could you guys just crash our party like this?”

“There’s not much of a party going on Chote.”

 

NK laughed and got to his feet and came over to Anjali and Arnav.

 

“You see Di, we knew you girls wouldn’t be able to stay away. So we decided that we would make you believe that we were having a crazy party so you all would get annoyed and join us.”

“Why didn’t you just tell us that you guys wanted us all to spend the evening together?”

“Where’s the fun in that?”

 

Anjali rolled her eyes and tutted. Shyam came up to her and draped his arm around her.

 

“Rani Sahiba, forgive us for lying to you ladies, but it was more fun this way, winding you guys up.”

 

As all the girls scolded their partners, Khushi moved over to Arnav who draped his arm around her.

 

“Hi.”

 

His voice was low and husky, she loved it when he sounded like that.

 

“How long do you think they’re all going to stay angry at each other?”

“Who cares, let’s dance.”

 

Taking her hand, Arnav dragged Khushi away from the arguing couples. Once they were a little far away, they could no longer hear the others, the music loud.

The song changed and Arnav pulled Khushi close to himself.

Arnav moved his body against Khushi’s in time with the beat of the music, his body brushing against hers. Khushi looked over to the others and saw that they were all absorbed in themselves so she too let loose and let the music take over.

She couldn’t remember the last time she’d been on the dance floor, just enjoying the company she was in. Tonight, right now, she felt completely carefree.

Arnav’s hands landed on her waist as he pulled her back against himself, his lips lowering to her neck. His arms tightened around her waist and Khushi could feel every inch of his body hard against hers as he carried on kissing her neck.

Caught up in the moment, Arnav spun Khushi around in his arms so that she was now facing him. He ran a finger down her face, while his arm tightened around her waist. His lips were only a centimetre away from Khushi’s, when he felt a hand pull him away from her slightly.

 

“What the…”

 

Shyam raised his eyebrow at Arnav.

 

“Jiju…”

“I understand how you’re feeling, but we can’t let you kids get carried away. Save it for your suhaag raat tomorrow night.”

 

Shyam walked away, leaving a furiously blushing Khushi and a slightly miffed Arnav. But he did as his jiju said and took a step away from Khushi.

 

“He’s right, let’s save it for tomorrow night.”

 

Moving closer to him once again, Khushi pressed her lips close to his ears as she whispered, “I can’t wait…”

Pardesi Pyaar ~ Part 13

 

Pulling up in front of the large house, Khushi felt as though her eyes were going to fall out of her head. She had been anticipating a large house, but she hadn’t expected this. The Raizada house was HUGE, way bigger than anything she had ever seen before.

 

“Welcome to Shantivan.”

“This is your home?”

“Yep.”

“It’s beautiful!”

 

Turning in his seat, Akash looked to his future sister in law.

 

“Welcome home bhabi!”

 

Arnav got out of the car and then helped Khushi out while Shyam and Akash got their luggage. Arnav placed his hand on Khushi’s and led her to the front door.

 

“Don’t be nervous. I’m here, with you.”

 

They reached the front door and Arnav rang the doorbell, his hand remained in Khushi’s even when she wanted to break away.

They stood waiting for only half a moment and then the door flew open and a pretty woman in a pale pink sari opened the door. She looked at though she would be a couple of years older than Arnav. This must either be his Di or Akash’s wife.

 

“Chote! You’re home!”

 

Moving forward, Arnav hugged the woman just as another, also beautiful and young woman, joined the first. Khushi realised that the first woman must have been his Di and the one that joined them now was Akash’s wife.

The woman who Khushi assumed to be Akash’s wife handed the woman who Khushi assumed to be Arnav’s Di, a pooja ki thaal.

 

“Di, must you do this?”

“Yes Chote! You’ve arrived home after moths and our new sister in law is entering the house for the first time, this has to be done.”

 

Realising that Khushi was right, she smiled. This was his Anjali Di.

Anjali began to do the aarthi. When she was done she allowed Arnav and Khushi into the house.

 

“Chote, you’re so rude, you haven’t introduced us to our bhabi to be.”

“Sorry, sorry. Di this is Khushi, Khushi this is my Di.”

“It’s so good to finally meet you Khushi. We’ve all heard so much about you.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you too.”

 

Anjali led Khushi and Arnav through the house and gestured for them to take a seat in the living room. Khushi watched as Akash passed the luggage over to a man named Hari Prakash and asked him to take them up to Arnav’s room and the guest room.

 

“Did you guys have a good journey?”

“It was okay.”

 

They all made small talk about the journey when the other young woman came out of the kitchen with a tray of drinks and snacks. She placed the tray down on the table and then took a seat beside Akash.

 

“I’m Payal, Akash’s wife. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you Khushi.”

“Same here.”

 

Arnav looked around the house and then addressed his Di.

 

“Di where’s Ma, mami and Nani?”

“They went to the temple, they should be back any time now.”

 

Nodding Arnav settled back down, placing his hand on Khushi’s knee. He leaned forward and whispered to her.

 

“Are you okay?”

“I’m fine, thanks.”

“Aw look how cute they are!”

 

Pulling away from Arnav, Khushi blushed a deep shade of red as she watched Arnav’s siblings and their partners all look at them.

 

“Don’t worry Khushi, we’re all couples here and we all share things any way. As long as the elders aren’t around, you guys can get as cosy with each other as you want in front of us.”

 

Turning to Arnav, she watched as he smirked and slipped his arm around her. She tried to shake him off but he kept his arm in place.

 

*****

 

Some time had passed and Khushi was feeling a lot more comfortable around the younger members of the Raizada family. Anjali Di was very sweet but she teased them a lot. Shyam jiju was the opposite of his wife, even though he was still very sweet, he calmed his wife down, making her go easy on Arnav and Khushi.
Akash was quite quiet, he didn’t say much, but he was very friendly. His wife Payal was also like that. She didn’t speak much, but she was warm and very attentive.

Feeling herself starting to loosen up, she relaxed against Arnav and laughed at the jokes and stories that were being told.
It was then that the door rang.

 

“Looks like they’re back from the temple.”

 

Moving away from Arnav, Khushi stood up and smoothed out her clothes, making sure that she looked presentable. Anjali and Arnav also got up and they led Khushi over to the hallway, waiting for the women to approach them.

 

“My Chote is home!”

 

Taking in the three women, Khushi established who was Nani. Then she looked at the other two women beside her. The first woman looked like a rainbow with a colourful sari and equally colourful jewellery, the other woman, looked a lot like Anjali, just older. This must be Arnav’s mother.

 

“Ma, Nani, mami. This is Khushi.”

 

Moving forward, Khushi touched the feet of all three ladies, all of whom gave her their blessings. She then came back and stood before Arnav’s mother.

Arnav’s mother, Anaamika Raizada looked at the girl before her. Khushi stood there, watching as Arnav’s mother looked at her from top to bottom, an expression of deep thought never leaving her face. Khushi felt her heart dropping the longer Arnav’s mother looked at her. Maybe she wasn’t going to like her, maybe she wouldn’t approve of Khushi as their daughter in law.

Then all of a sudden Anaamika broke into a smile and moved towards Khushi, pulling her into her arms.

 

“Chote, you have picked an absolute jewel to be your wife. She’s absolutely beautiful. Your father was right, you have picked a girl that’s more beautiful than your mother, I am impressed.”

 

Feeling her cheeks go red, Khushi hugged Arnav’s mother, so glad to be accepted. Breaking the hug, Anaamika took Khushi’s hand as she led Khushi into the living area where the other Raizada’s were waiting nervously. Sitting down, Anaamika took the seat next to Khushi.

 

“Ma, you are right, she is beautiful, but you are still the most beautiful woman in my life.”

 

The Raizada’s laughed at Arnav’s attempt to butter his mother up. Anaamika laughed.

 

“Nice attempt Chote. But there really is no harm in agreeing with me and saying that Khushi is more beautiful because she really is.”

 

Nodding, Arnav blushed. His mother was right. As much as he loved his mother and sister, Khushi definitely was far more beautiful.

Anaamika turned her attention back to the girl sat beside her.

 

“How was your flight dear?”

“It was good aunty.”

“Have you had the opportunity to freshen up yet?”

 

Shaking her head, Anaamika nodded.

 

“Go to your room to freshen up and I’ll get some food ready for you.”

“There’s no need for that aunty, I’m not hungry.”

“Nonsense! You have to eat. Anjali, go and show Khushi to her room. Khushi, freshen up, rest a bit and then I’ll send someone to get you when the food is ready.”

“Ji auntyji.”

“Also, stop calling me aunty. I’m going to be your saas very soon so you can call me ma.”

 

Blushing, Khushi looked up at Arnav who was staring at her, smiling.

 

“Ji Ma.”

 

As Anjali led her up to her room, Khushi couldn’t believe her luck. The Raizada’s were all lovely people and they all accepted her. Khushi thanked her lucky stars. For once, things in her life seemed to be sailing smoothly.

 

*****

 

A week had passed since Arnav and Khushi had arrived back in India. Things had been going very well with wedding talks starting. At first Khushi had been quite nervous because she didn’t know if she was ready for marriage, but now, she knew that she wanted to spend her life with Arnav and she loved this family so she didn’t mind getting married.

Arnav and Khushi were currently in Khushi’s bedroom, locked in a tight embrace, Arnav’s hand running up and down Khushi’s back as his lips caressed hers. Khushi’s hand tightened in his hair, while the other ran up and down his chest.
They had tried to stay away from each other, mainly because Khushi was worried someone would see them and they’d disapprove, but they could no longer resist each other.

Finally they broke the kiss before things went too far.

 

“Arnav we should stop.”

“Ugh, I can’t take this any more. I need to be close to you.”

“Well we’re going to be married soon.”

“Soon isn’t soon enough. Besides, the pandit can’t find us a good date yet.”

“They’ll find us a date soon Arnav. And besides, sabar ka fal meeta hoti hai.”

“I’m sure you’ll be meeta anyway Khushi. Let me take a bite to check.”

 

Batting him away from her, Khushi laughed and straighten out her clothes. But she understood Arnav’s impatience. She too wanted to get close to him, but she knew she had to wait, it was the right thing to do.

 

“I swear, watch what I do to you on our wedding night.”

 

Feeling the heat in her cheeks growing, Khushi hid her face in his chest. She didn’t want to think about what is soon to happen between them, excitement and nervousness about the matter all mixed together, making her feel slightly sick.

Smirking, Arnav stepped away and slowly exited the room, allowing Khushi time to process his words. He loved seeing her like this, so completely absorbed in the thoughts of what was to come.

Once Arnav was out the door, Khushi moved over to the door, shutting it and resting her back against it. Her breathing was heavy, her chest rising and falling rapidly, thoughts of him taking over her mind. Recalling all their semi intimate encounters, Khushi replayed all the emotions she had felt. It was all so intense, how could it get any more heated. But of course she knew it could and the prospect of what was to come made her burn up with both shyness and desire.

She couldn’t wait to become Mrs Arnav Singh Raizada.

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.”