CHAPTER 12: Trouble in paradise
RAIZADA MANSION, 06:30 AM
The beeping of the annoying morning alarm disturbed Khushi’s sleep as she half-asleep with eyes still close patted around to her bedside table, turning off the damn annoying thing. And though she wanted to go back to sleep as thanks to her naughty husband who didn’t let her sleep until wee hours at early morning, she knew she had to wake up and get ready after then prepare for morning aarti like good bahu.
Opening her eyes lazily as she looked beside her to see her devil of a husband sleeping like an innocent baby with a cute pout, she just melted at how cute he looked while sleeping. Khushi peppered kiss all over his face not being able to resist herself and wrapped silk sheets around her to cover herself and tried to get up, but was instantly pulled back making her crush to Arnav’s chest.
Arnav in sleep husky voice said: “Where are you going...? Don’t you want your return kiss???” he opened his eyes and winked at her naughtily.
Feeling embarrassed at being caught Khushi wiggled wanting to escape but her husband didn’t let her by tightening his hold on her as he naughtily said: “Arey, where you trying to run...that too without giving me proper morning kiss...?”
Saying so Arnav held Khushi and brought his lips to hers making her get lost in his touch as the kiss started as a soft tender kiss which turned into passionate, wild and desire full. Arnav rolled them making Khushi lay flat on her back as he hovered over her still kissing her passionately and with all the love and desire he had for which made Khushi loose her in-habitations and control as he kissed the daylight out of her. They pulled apart finally feeling breathless; Arnav looked at his wife’s lovely face which had turned into lovely shade of red hue, her eyes closed as she slowly opened her eyes looked at him with the love of entire world as he brushed off the baby-hair behind her ear and said in a husky voice: “Good morning, Mishti.”
Khushi lowered her eyes shyly turning brighter red if possible and her chest still heaving up-down from the breathlessness trying to catch her breath with her smudged sindoor and lipstick made her more aphrodisiac in Arnav’s eyes as he felt his desires for her rise again. So he put a finger under her chin and made her look up, said in husky desire filled voice: “This morning is good, but I can think of few things to make this morning even better...”
With suggestive naughty look on his face which always left Khushi shy and rendering her speechless and powerless in front of him. Then Arnav slowly pulled the sheets off her which she was using to cover herself and lowered his lips on her taking her in a passionate kiss, taking her in a world filled with desire and loved only he can take her to... in which where only them wrapped in their little bubble of love.
....
Around 07:30 AM, Khushi looked at the time and started pushing Arnav off her seeing it was getting late which made him get irritated as he kept tightening his hold on her to not let her go. She annoyedly pinched him making him jump and taking the opportunity gathered the sheets around her, covering herself got out of bed. Arnav made a face as he hugged her pillow looked at Khushi who was gathering the scattered cloths around the room and removing the sheets and put on her pink silk night-gown which was thrown off by him last night.
Arnav making face: “Mishti, why did you have to get up...get back here baby!”
Khushi: “No, you get out of bed, it’s getting late...I’ve to go down for puja and you’re getting late for your morning jogging Mister...” sternly trying to get him out of bed.
Arnav tied the bed-sheet around waist as he got out of bed knowing she is climbing in again and stood in front of her as he pulled her close by her waist said: “You know what, I don’t need morning exercise to burn down calories...my wife makes me work quite hard in bed to satisfy her.” giving her a wink and more flirtatious smirk.
Khushi swatted him turning crimson at his shameless comment: “Besharam! Aap mein koi sharam aur haaya naam ki cheez hai ki nahi...?” (Shameless! Do you have anything in name of shame and shyness in you or not..?)
Arnav: “Ab apni biwi se kaisi sharam or kaisi haaya...” (Now what kind of shame and shyness from my own wife...)
Khushi blushed harder and swatted on his chest: “Dhat!” pulling out of his arms, hands him towel and pulls her towel out and puts on her shoulder. She points him towards bathroom saying, “Freshen up fast, after you I need to shower also...” pushing him in and shutting the door after pushing him in and turned to go.
Arnav opened the door popping his head out asked: “Wanna join me in...?”
Khushi: “No thank you...”
Arnav: “Come on hop in, time and water both will be saved...” giving a naughty smile.
Khushi answered back: “Really...? But I think I’ll let it pass... Now hurry up!” turning around and went to fix the bed as he pouted but nonetheless shut bathroom door to freshen up.
After fixing the bed and putting the dirty clothes in laundry basket, she opened the wardrobe, taking his track-suit and kept it on bed, just as Arnav came out of bathroom with one towel around his waist and other around his neck. Khushi shaking her head seeing water dripping from his wet hair and made him sit on edge of bed, taking the towel from around his neck started drying his hair properly as he sat there wrapping his arm around her waist with a cute smile letting her pamper him.
After she dried his hair properly put the towel over her shoulder and smilingly she picked up the track suit and handed him, taking which he went to the walk-in wardrobe for changing into it quickly. In 05 mins he came out changed into track suit and Khushi handed him his phone, handkerchief and his water bottle he takes with himself for jogging. As smilingly Arnav took his things from Khushi and he gave her a kiss on his forehead as she smiled at him, said: “I’ll be back soon...”
Arnav smilingly patted her cheek affectionately as she gave him cute smile and he left for his jogging leaving behind a smiling Khushi who looked at the time and rushed to bathroom seeing it was getting late. Within 20 mins Khushi came out showed wearing her off-white in Bengali style her long hair open as she quickly as in front of mirror putting her on her bangles, sindoor and mangalsutra and quickly made it downstairs to do the morning aarti arrangements once looking clock which showed 08:10 AM.
....
Exactly at 08:20 AM, one by one the Raizadas’ started gather at mandir for morning aarti for 08:30 AM aarti. First came was Nani who was pleasantly surprised to see Khushi in mandir already and finished with the required preparation but not very shocked as she had seen Khushi taking up role of elder Bahu with ease, addressed Khushi: “Aap yaha itni subha-subha?” (You here so early in the morning?)
Khushi: “Yeah, I came down to do the aarti preparations...it’s the Daughter-In-Law of the house responsibility, right.”
Nani didn’t say thing more and silently stood their watched Khushi arrange everything alone as she too didn’t attempt to say anything more, simply continuing but inside she was happy that Nani at least talked to her.
After her came Anjali who was shocked to see Khushi has already finished the aarti preparation and Shyam who came along with her, looked lustily at Khushi who sat in front of the idol arranging the aarti thaali. Then came Mamaji and Maamiji doing her usual ‘Hello Hi Bye-bye’, soon after them came energetic NK and Lavanya, who came down with thoughts to demean Khushi if she was late but was surprised to her doing aarti preparations could only stand making a face. Last to come were Akash with Payal as they greeted everyone as they stood with others as Payal saw Khushi doing aarti preparation little perplexed because she thought the aarti preparation was done by Nani or Anjali, no one else.
Nani asked Payal: “Payal bitya, why are you so late??” looking at her with her gaze on her which was very much analyzing her made Payal nervous.
Payal nervously replied: “Woh... woh, I got up little late Dadiji. Sorry, it won’t happen again...” as she tried to look away from the microscopic eyes on her under which was she and her every move, which was quite unnerving if she was being truthful.
Nani said strenly: “I’ll let it go today, but try getting up early because in this house the Daughter-In-Law of the house who does morning aarti preparation like Khushi is doing...”
Manorama: “Hello Hi Bye-bye, bhatjj are you, Queen Victoria jo tum sabse last coming like Maharani, ah khoon bhari tang?” (Hello Hi Bye-bye, what are you, Queen Victoria that you come last like Royal Queem, ah Khoon bhari tang?)
Nani sternly: “Manorama!” shutting up Manorama who did her usual ‘Hello Hi Bye-bye’.
While Payal couldn’t say anything and silently nodded in agreement as she stood embarrassed with the situation, but what can she do, she isn’t use to these things. She has grown up in small family and now after marriage she’s having tough time coping up living such a joint family and all the new responsibilities. She had thought in such a rich family there would be servants and house-help for everything but no like any other typical family it is expected from the Bahu of the house to cook and do the household chores. And she is trying to adjust to all this new things but her Mother-In-Law is making things harder for her in her own way with her tantrums of making her run after her.
Khushi silently got up and with aarti thaali and started doing the aarti as everyone folded hand in prayer. Than after aarti Khushi turned to give everyone Prasad and put tikka, she 1st went to Nani touching her feet; who just kept hand on her head silently, than put tikka and gave Prasad. Then one by one gave Maamiji, Mamaji, Akash, Payal, NK, Lavanya, Anjali and lastly she came and stood before the slimy Shyam who looked at her wickedly as Khushi gave her Prasad waiting for Khushi to put tikka as even for excuse of tikka at least Khushi would touch her, this thought made him smile creepily.
Khushi so didn’t wanted to touch that creepy but couldn’t deliberately escape him without rising suspicion among the family members; hence unwillingly she was about to put tikka on Shyam, but seemed like her lifesaver Arnav walked inside the house. Seeing him entering as he gave her a cute smile which made her smile sweetly in return and without putting tikka on Shyam’s forehead, she made way to her cute loving hubby much to Shyam’s jealousy as saw Arnav-Khushi together and as for Khushi, everything comes after her husband so everyone can think whatever they want.
Arnav watched as Khushi in a simple off-white printed sari and hair open holding the aarti thaali coming to him smiling, she looked like an angel and he really loved the way she wore sari, seems like he has to ask her wear sari like this for whole day sometimes. She stood in front of him greeting him with a smile as she put tikka on his forehead and then fed him Prasad which he ate without any complain, Khushi then tried to bend down to touch his feet but he stopped her midway holding her arm saying: “Hadd hai! How many times do I’ve to tell you, don’t do this!”
Khushi: “But its tradition to touch husband’s feet for blessing”
Arnav: “It’s all nonsense...you’re my wife and your place is in my heart, not at my feet get that. So, don’t do that...”
Kissing her forehead as she felt touched by his words but irritated at same time for him not letting her touch his feet. Seeing her mood go low, Arnav said: “Arey, tumne tikka nahi lagaya?” (You didn’t put tikka?)
Khushi replied: “I was putting tikka to everyone...how I can put on myself...”
Arnav mischievously said: “Yeah, that’s also right...okay then let me put tikka on you.” with a very naughty smile on his face as he was looking at her with mischievous twinkle in his eyes.
Khushi something fishy the way he said and was going to protest but before that he started to bend towards her making her get lost in the depth of his crystal blue eyes, as he slowly put his forehead on hers and rubbed lightly putting kumkum on her forehead from his.
Khushi was all lost in his closeness as Arnav said in low husky voice: “Done...” his breath washing over her face as Arnav saw her eyes close on its own and lips trembling.
Arnav stepped back and feeling him moved away Khushi snapped open her eyes and looked around realizing they were still in hall and the mischievous smile on his lips made her turn crimson lowering her eyes in shyness. Arnav put a finger under her chin making her look at him and he was lost in her violet-hyacinth color eyes, he loved the unique color of her eyes... they were so beautiful that he could look in them all day. They both were lost in their own world without the care of outside but outside world did care a lot to interrupt them which was what exactly happened.
Shyam who was looking at the lovely-dovey moment between Arnav-Khushi burned in jealousy and not being able to take anymore decided to interrupt, called out: “Khushiji, you haven’t put tikka on me and I’m still waiting...”
Arnav-Khushi pulled apart and looked at a red-faced Shyam, but Shyam hadn’t attracted their attention also the rest of the family’s who were present having general conversation. An over-concerned Anjali asked: “Kya huwa Shyamji?” (What happened Shaymji?)
Shyam replied fuming: “Hona kya hai Rani Sahiba, look at Khushiji she left me standing here and without giving the morning aarti tikka, she ran to her husband seeing him entering. Now you tell me it is bad to not take Devi Maiyya’s aarti tikka in the morning, but she is so careless and couldn’t see anything beyond her husband...” making a face.
Anjali seeing her husband angry tried to calm him: “Shyamji please calm down, subha-subha gussa karna acha nahi hai...” then she turned to Khushi angrily scolding her, “Khushiji, what is this how you can make Shyamji wait like this...? How can you ignor-”
She was cut off by Arnav: “Di, stop scolding Khushi unnecessarily...it’s not her fault!”
Anjali looked at her brother in disbelieve to seeing him contradicting her: “Chotte! You’re saying this? You’re taking her side...against ME?!”
Arnav: “Di, stop over-reacting please...”
Khushi tried stopping him saying: “Arnav subha-subha don’t start fighting with Di, let it go please....”
Arnav: “No Mishti they can’t simply use that tone with you such pity issue...”
Anjali angrily: “Pity issue? I’m over-reacting...? Chotte, it’s her fault she was giving Prasad and putting tikka to everyone and she should have put tikka at Shyamji. But not only she left mid, she made him wait...how can she do that?” if it was possible she might have had steam coming out of her ears.
Arnav was losing his cool at Anjali’s behavior said: “Di you’re not kid anymore stop whining for everything and like for you, your husband is important...likewise for Khushi I’m most important person, for her I’m first then everyone else. And what are you shouting at her for one tikka, aap khud kyun nahi laga deti Jeejaji ko...”
Everyone in family was shocked seeing Arnav back-answering his Di, whom he had never contradicted on anything. Anjali was about to say something but Nani spoke first: “Enough of this... Anjali bitya, Chotte stop fighting! And Anjali bitya, Chotte is right...like for you your husband is important; Khushi’s priority is her husband. And it’s about tikka, you yourself put on Daamadji, baat khatam...”
Arnav took the puja-thaali from Khushi and passed to Anjali said sarcastically: “Now you yourself put as many tikka’s on Jeejaji you want and Jeejaji, get the tikka from your wife, as many as you want...”
Making a face Arnav took Khushi’s hand and left from there leaving behind a shock family at fuming Anjali who wanted to simply throw Khushi out for taking her brother from her, a jealous Shyam and Lavanya while rest of the family shocked seeing Arnav getting so protective of Khushi. They all started getting back to their normal routine after morning drama.
Arnav was dragging Khushi towards but she stopped him at stairs making him to face her as she said: “Arnav, you go upstairs I’m coming in 05 mins...” as she tried to move away.
Arnav: “Now what?” making an irritated face.
Khushi: “I’ll just check if everything for breakfast is done or not...you head up, I’m coming...” giving him explanation again trying to leave.
Making a face Arnav let go off her hand saying: “Come quick, you’ve to dry my hair and you know I can’t get ready without your help...” not wanting her to go.
Khushi teasing him said: “Arnav it’s only 2nd day we’re married and you’re like I’m doing these things for you since ages... What you used to do before our marriage?” with a smile playing on her lips.
Arnav simply said sweetly: “Two days or not, I don’t care... Now you’re here and I love your helping me in my little-little things, it’s like you’re pampering me. And I love being pampered by you, so come fast!” kissed her cheek before going upstairs.
Khushi could simply shake her head smiling at her cute hubby’s antics, he might be arrogant rude jerk to world but he is so childish in front of her, doing anything and everything to get her attention and pampering from her. She went in kitchen and gave HP quick instructions knowing her hubby would shake the whole house if she didn’t make it quick. Hence, she made way to her room for changing the sari and help her hubby to get ready.
Getting inside the room she heard the shower in bathroom making her aware of Arnav being inside, so she went to wardrobe and started taking out his suit, keeping it on bed. Arnav came out of the washroom seeing her taking out sari for her to change and his cloths kept nicely on bed. He made way to her as Khushi turned to face him and Arnav forward her the towel around his neck, sitting on the recliner and she smilingly took the towel from him and started wiping his hair dry while he wrapped he wrapped his arm around her waist.
Arnav causally asked: “Are you gonna change the sari?”
Khushi simply: “Hmmm...” continuing her task.
Arnav: “You should wear sari this way more often like for whole day sometimes...” told her sweetly.
Khushi stopped taken back by his odd request asked: “Why?” going back on her work as he gestured her.
Arnav simply replied: “I really like the way you dress up like this, all beautiful cute Bengali bride... Please someday dress-up like this for whole day...” requesting cutely.
Khushi smiled replying him: “Okay, when you’ll be home all day, I’ll wear sari like this for you...theek hai?” keeping the towel aside and Arnav flashed a dimple smile at her nodding his head liking the idea as she was done told him, “Now get ready, I need to change too...” moving to take her sari and go to washroom for changing.
Arnav went to bed picking up the blue suit with light blue shirt and a check tie she had taken out for him and started to change into it. As Arnav finished buttoning up his shirt after wearing his pant, he heard the washroom door click before opening and came out Khushi as a vision in blue-cream sari with her hair open, looking like Neeli-Pari who descended on earth only for him. And all he could do was stop and stare at her with moony-eyes.
Khushi walked up to him with her cheeks turning pink at his gaze on her and the look in his eyes, she simply picked up the tie from bed and stood in front of him and put the tie around his neck then started knotting the tie. Arnav smilingly wrapped his arm around her waist and mischievously running his fingers on her skin, tickling her. She swatted his hand in warning: “Behave!” showed him big eyes to stop but he simply smiled broader continuing his teasing.
Khushi finished up knotting his tie said: “Aap na bohat badmash ho...” (You’re very naughty...)
Arnav naughtily replied: “Ab tumhare saath badmashi na karoon toh kiske saath karoon...pardosi ki biwi?” (Now if I don’t do naughty things with you, whom I suppose to do...neighbor's wife?)
Khushi swatted him and pulled away, picking up his waist-coat helped him, wearing it and then picked his coat and helped him putting it on.
Arnav quickly went in front of mirror brushed his hair and turned around as Khushi held her right hand out holding his wallet, handkerchief and phone which he took from her put in his pocket. Then she forwarded her left hand holding his watch and taking from her he quickly put it on smiling at her and walked to the coffee table checking if he took all important files, keeping them in his laptop bag. While Khushi stood in front of mirror applied her coral-pink lip-gloss, she put on her matching earrings and through mirror she saw Arnav searching something which made her shake her head as she opened the 1st drawer of the bedside table of his side took out the car keys and walked up to him and held in front of him.
Arnav took the keys from her saying: “Thank you, really where you find it? I couldn't find it anywhere...” as he gave him a grateful smile to her.
Khushi: “Wahi jaha aap humesha rakhte hai, in you bedside table 1st drawer.” in her 'duh' tone. (Right where you always keep, in you bedside table 1st drawer.)
Arnav gave a smiled sleepily saying: “What am I going to do without you?!”
Khushi just shook her head at his dramatics and held her right hand out holding her sindoor-daan asked him silently to fill her maang which he happily did, kissed her forehead and she said smiling: "Aapko pata hai? Yeh sab se khubsoorat ehsaas hai jo hum mehsoos karti hai jabhi aap humari maang bharte ho. Yeh choti-choti cheezein hain jo hume humesha ye ehsaas dilati hain ki hum, ‘Hum’ hai...'Main’ aur ‘Tum’ nahi.” (You know? This is the most beautiful feeling that I feel whenever you fill my maang. These little-little things always remind me that we are ‘We’...and not ‘You’ and ‘Me’.)
Arnav hugged her tight and she reciprocated, after few moments she pulled back and kissed his cheek. She went to dressing table kept her sindoor-box, turned smiled at Arnav asked: “Now can we go down for breakfast?”
Arnav nodded picked up his laptop bag and wrapped one arm around her waist holding her close to him as he gave her a cute smile showing his deep-dig dimples which were returned by Khushi who flashed her bright dimple smile as they both went downstairs.
When Arnav-Khushi came to dinner table for breakfast saw everyone already seated as the dishes were brought by HP and Payal on the table. Arnav sat on his seat wishing all his usual ‘Good morning’ as Khushi started serving his breakfast and then sat down beside him helping herself while Payal with HP served rest of the family and after that Payal too sat down for her breakfast and HP felt to finish his other chores.
The breakfast had been a quite affair with normal chatting and no drama was created here as everyone quickly finished. Nani finishing hers went to her room as Mamaji also left for office, Shyam too got up to go office doing his overly-sugary-good-husband act asking Anjali to take care of herself, NK danced to his room going to call his friend for confirming if the lunch plan was still on, Maamiji fluttered to living room followed by Payal as Akash softly said he is going to office to which Manorama simply ‘Bye bye’ him; whereas he want Payal to see him off till door but his mother didn’t let them so he simply said goodbye and left, Lavanya had gone to her room to take her purse and important files needed in office.
On other side Khushi walked Arnav till the porch, and he looked around seeing no one in sight, not that he cared if anyone saw...he pulled Khushi who came crushing to his chest wrapped arms around her and brought his lips on her, kissing her passionately as she wrapped her arms around his neck kissing him back with equal love and passion. They came up for air, pulling their lips apart from each other, looking in each other’s and Khushi turned red under his gaze.
Arnav brushed he lock of hair behind her ear said softly: “I don’t wanna go office...”
Khushi sweetly replied: “But you’ve to go...”
Arnav made a baby face complaining: “Why do I’ve to go...? Can’t I spend all day with you...just you and me?”
Khushi smiled saying: “As much as I would love that, but we can’t...you have office and I’ve household chores to take care...” Arnav made a face not willing to leave her as she looked at his face lovingly making him give her a loving looks, “It’s okay na Jaana you go to office, anyways I’m coming to office with your lunch...”
Arnav smiled at the lunch together thought: “Yeah, that’s better you come with lunch to office...” he pecked her lips few times before he finally walked to his car got in and waved her as she smilingly blew flying kisses at him which he pretended to catch, then started the engine and zoomed out of the main gates while she stood smiling and after he was out of sight turned around to walk inside instead came face-to-face unexpectedly with Lavanya.
Lavanya stood their fuming at Khushi, she had witnessed the whole scene when she had walked out of the house and was so very jealous seeing ASR all romancing with Khushi while he never talked to her lovingly in their whole relationship period. She walked up to Khushi wanting to demean her knowing now even ASR wasn’t here to defend her, sarcastically said: “Wow Chamkili! You’ve really done it...I’ve to say you fooled us quite well, no one even got the wind of your plan and you successfully accomplished it...”
Khushi frowningly asked: “Matlab?” (Meaning?)
Lavanya angrily spoke the words: "Nicely trapped ASR ah! I never expected this from you Chamkili... but guess what, middle-class girl like you know only one thing i.e. to trap rich guys like ASR and what better could be expected from you!"
Khushi calmly said: “Lavanyaji I know you’re being bitter...I know you're hurt with Arnav marrying me and I’m really sorry that you feel betrayed. But don’t regret marrying him because our reason is simple, he loves me and I love him...and I’m not going to be the selfless-sacrificing person nor I’m stupid enough to turn my back on my true love which was being reciprocated for someone else knowing on one would be happy. So for once I wanted to be selfish and wanted my love in my life regardless to others...that’s what we did and I don’t regret any of it. So if you trying to give me guilt-trips it’s of no use.”
Lavanya fumed: “Of course you’re selfish, all the while acting to be my friend and then you snatched my ASR from me!”
Khushi said possessively: “First of all it’s not your ASR...he is MINE, be it ASR or Arnav. Secondly, you both were over quite some time back, even before Jiji and Akashji’s engagement...so snatching from you is out of question, when he wasn’t yours in first place. Lavanyaji, I’m sorry for your heartbreak but I sincerely hope you find your true love one day...”
Saying so Khushi walked inside while Lavanya stood their burning in anger and jealousy as she angrily said: “ASR loves you, my foot! I’ll take back what is mine and ASR is mine!” storming out from there. Walked to her car and getting in, started the engine and zoomed out of RM gates.
.....................................
A.R. DESIGNS, DELHI, 10:30 AM
The news of ASR marrying Khushi has traveled in the office at lightning speed, which a peon heard Aman talk with Akash when they came office for brief hours. And the hot gossip of the day was that their cold-heartless boss eloped and got married, now who could’ve thought that the man who uses to run away from the ‘marriage’ would ever marry...that too by eloping. As the signal of ASR’s car entering office premises made the employees rush back to work and when ASR walked in all got up greeting ‘Good morning’ like always. But for the first time that they received a ‘Good morning’ from ASR that too with a polite smile as he walked to his cabin, without seeing behind him everyone go googly-eyes and funny faces of identical shock expression.
Lavanya walked into the office received sympathized looks from everyone which she determinedly ignored, but the way ignoring the looks is easy ignoring words aren’t...and the words were floating around in office. Everyone had eyes on Lavanya’s moves and whispering among each other behind her back, all seem have opinion that Khushi was more suitable for ASR as he seemed more mellowed and in pleasant mood than ever. Everyone felt that Khushi brought ASR’s better side as everyone has in past witnessed the sublet changes Khushi had always seem to have brought in him, and as for Lavanya, she herself is such a Drama-queen...always throwing tantrums at the drop of hat, how could she handle ASR. Lavanya could only silently fume at the behind-her-back whispering comments, she has a plan to work on; hence she ignored everyone and continuing her work with her two minions following her.
_____________
RAIZADA MANSION, 12:50 PM
It was quite afternoon in Raizada household, Nani was in her room feeding her pet goat grass like always, Maamiji had gone out to some kitty party also taken Payal with her, Anjali was in her room resting as she was in a sleepy-mood which Nani said to be her pregnancy hormones and Khushi was in kitchen preparing lunch with HP’s help, humming a song softly with a shy smile playing on her lips as the song she was humming reminded her of her cute naughty hubby: "Kabhi aar kabhi paar laga teri nazar, Kabhi aar kabhi paar laga teri nazar... Saiyaa ghaayal kiya re tune mora jigar...."
The doorbell rang and Khushi asked HP: “HPji can you please see who it is?”
HP nodded saying: “Ji Bhabhi” and went away to see who the visitor is.
Khushi smilingly packing Arnav’s lunchbox and NK walked into kitchen making her stop as she asked: “You want something Devarji?”
NK smiled replying: “I just came for a glass of water...”
Khushi: “Wait, I’m giving you.”
Khushi picked a glass from shelf and pouring water, she handed him with a polite smile and NK thanked her as she went back to her work of packing lunch for her husband which she especially made for him, his favorite. After drinking water NK kept the glass but he kept his eyes on Khushi, observing her every move; it would be a lie if he said that he didn’t get charmed by her when they first met and he liked her....liked her a lot. Her responding to his silly flirting during Akash’s wedding made him quite confident that he could make her fall for him, but all things changed when unexpectedly Arnav-Khushi walked in through the doors of Shantivaan married.
He had seen how in-love they’re with each other, it’s like they couldn’t see anything beyond each other and he has also seen changes in their individual personalities. It’s no doubt that Arnav has changed from cold-heartless ASR who didn’t care about anything in world and his first priority was his Di, now turned into warm loving and caring Khushi’s Arnav who loves his wife more than anything in his life...maybe more than his Di. But there are changes in Khushi also, its correct that she was always a bubbly, chirpy, fun-loving girl who always laughed and smiled, but there was something missing in her smiles and laughs which weren’t seen behind the happy facade. Now it seems to be gone, her smiles and laugh reaches her eyes...the love and adoration in her eyes for Arnav made NK realize that he could’ve never gotten that look for himself from her ever and he felt jealous from Nannav for getting it all that he was hoping to make his. And he had simply accepted the heartbreak... his first heartbreak, but he was happy that his cousin found his true happiness after all the hardships he faced in life. He knew time would heel his aching heart; there is someone else who is destined for him, his ‘The One’...what about the this treacherous heart who doesn’t seem to heed him.
He placed the glass on the counter and giving Khushi a polite smile left the kitchen. HP after a minute or two came there with a mafia-envelope in hand and said to Khushi: “Bhabhi aapke liye koi courier aaya hai...” (Bhabhi a courier came for you...)
Khushi looked at him confused asking: “For me...?” HP nodded and she said, “Okay, you keep it on the counter I’ll see it later and now please chop the salad for me...”
He nodded again and got on working on what she asked him. Khushi closed the sabzi dabba and turned to see HP chopping tomatoes for salad, so she instructed him: “HPji, you please pack the salad after chopping it and then keep the Tiffin in the basket and please Mohanji se kahke sab car mein rakhwa dijiye...”
HP nodded and Khushi picked the courier from the counter, made way upstairs to her room wanting to change before taking lunch to office and now since this courier arrived for her, she might check it as well.
What Khushi hadn’t noticed was a pair of stern eyes analyzing her, which were none other than of Devyani Raizada with her lips pressed in thin line. She was observing Khushi’s moves since morning and she has to admit this to herself that Khushi has settled effectively in the role of Arnav’s wife and Raizada’s elder Daughter-In-Law very nicely... maybe she herself having searched the whole world couldn’t find a better bride for her elder grandson. It really amazed her how Khushi has silently taken the charge of the household without family’s help while Payal was still struggling to settle down, it’s not Payal is bad or something but simply having hard time adjusting in new family and the new responsibility while Khushi seems so spontaneous. It’s amazing how both girls are brought-up by same family yet both have so different trails and traditional values, where Payal is juggling between her new role of a wife and new responsibilities as a daughter-in-law. Khushi seem to have found her balance of fulfilling her responsibility of a daughter-in-law yet her husband is her first priority. It seems like there is more of Khushi that is to be discovered by everyone.
*****
Khushi entered her room and closing the door sat on bed as she looked the envelope for sender’s name but found none strangely. With a frown she curiously opened the envelope, emptied the contents on her lap and some photos with a folded piece of paper fell on her lap. She curiously gathered the photos and turned around to see them and what she saw was completely unexpected.
The photos were of Arnav-Lavanya’s, they were pictures like both went on some party dancing together, at some dinner laughing with hands held kept on the table, Lavanya hugging him, her kissing his cheek and along with those old photos were photos of what seem like taken in office today where Lavanya had her arms around Arnav’s neck and he held her by waist, like she was falling and he held her to steady her, but it was the way they looked in each others...Lavanya was looking at him with pain standing behind him had a hand kept on his shoulder and Arnav to had an hurt face, than other photo of them standing very close to each other, one seemed like they were almost hugging each other with tears brimming in Lavanya’s eyes.
These pictures pricked Khushi’s heart as she picked the folded piece of paper keeping the photos aside. She started reading the content of it, a letter addressed to her with tears clinging to her eyes ready to fall.
To Khushiji,
I’m sending you these photos to make you aware of your husband’s true colours. I know you’re very much hurt seeing these photos but you should know the truth...you think your husband loves you but that’s not true, he is simply using you. You’re his new shining toy he is playing with, till he gets bored and throws you like a used tissue paper. He doesn’t love you, he loves Lavanya, and in fact he is two-timing on you. Now only you think he says he loves you and that’s why he married you but if he loves you and there is nothing between him and Lavanya, than why hasn’t he asked her to leave RM yet?
Khushiji he married you only because he wanted to bed you as you’re the type of girl who wouldn’t have physical relation with anyone before marriage, while the other girls in his life readily agreed for live-in relationship like Lavanya...but he knew you won’t and also he thought that you being so naive soul is easy to keep under control as he could do whatever he wants, so he married you. He has many girls in his life and you have seen Lavanya, you’ve yourself witnessed their live-in relation... He cannot be satisfied by one woman.
Arnav Singh Raizada is a total Casanova and a womanizer, the whole world knows it...a very well known fact, everyday in Page-03 news he has a new girl hanging in his arms. Now even after know the truth you wanna stay with such a man? You want to stay with him waiting for him to throw you out of his life like a tissue-paper? You have to decide what you want, but in my opinion you deserve better than this Khushiji. If you don’t believe me, call office, you’ll know that right now Arnav is in his cabin alone with Lavanya and has asked no one to disturb the....also let me tell you that they’re alone in cabin for past hour and ASR has asked not to be disturbed for few hours. Now what is so important happening between them for so long inside the cabin alone...that made ASR give instruction not to disturb them...? You guess what might be happening behind the doors. I’m telling Khushiji if you question Arnav...even showing these pictures to him than he’ll deny and brush you off saying you’re being unnecessarily suspicious and it’s only professional between him and Lavanya and give you some lame crap excuse...so better you don’t mention about this courier and question him or else he’ll easily make excuse saying someone trying to frame him and you’re so naive Khushiji that you’ll again fall for his lies.
Yours concerned,
Well-wisher
Khushi felt like crying reading the letter as tears filled her eyes. She picked her phone and dialled Arnav’s number which was switched off. After few unsuccessful attempts she called office to his Personal Secretary, Neha Saha who picked up after few rings formally greeted with: “Good afternoon, this is AR Designs...how I may help you?”
Khushi wiping her silent tears simontaliously as she asked trying to calm voice: “Hi, I’m Khushi Arnav Singh Raizada speaking...can you please forward the line to Arnav please? I called on his mobile but it’s switched off...”
Neha: “I’m sorry ma’am but ASR is busy in meeting with Lavanya ma’am in his cabin and he has asked not to be disturbed by anyone... Any message for him I can pass along when he is free...”
Khushi gulped the lump in her throat controlling her emotions said: “Just inform him that I can’t come with his lunch and I’ve send his lunch with the driver. So he takes his lunch and medicines in time, will you please tell him?”
Neha politely replied: “Sure ma’am...anything else?”
Khushi: “No, thank you...”
Keeping the call, Khushi took deep breaths and quickly wiped her tears as she went downstairs to kitchen, finding HP said to him: “HPji can you please ask Mohanji to take the lunch to office? I’m not feeling well, so I’m not going anymore...”
HP concernedly asked: “Kya huwa Badi Bhabhi?”
Khushi smilingly replied: “Kuch nahi, just mild headache...I’m fine” hiding her inner turmoil.
HP nodded: “Theek hai, Bhabhi...”
Khushi: “You please ask Mohanji to leave now, or else it will get late for him to eat lunch. I’m going to my room for resting and I won’t be eating lunch today...” HP nodded and walked off to do what he was asked to do while Khushi silently made way to her room.
Entering her room silently she closed the door behind her, her eyes fell on the envelope and its contents on bed which she quickly picked it up and put back in the envelope, taking it she hid it in one of the drawer in her side of wardrobe. She walked up to the bed and fell on her stomach clutched Arnav’s pillow hugging it she let her tears to spill and broke into bitter heartbreaking sobs. As she wondered how it happened with her, she was happy and content one moment and next second came this envelope which made her a mess with turmoil inside her, as she cried her heart out alone in the privacy of her room hugging the pillow of the one person she loves the most and wishing to be in the confines of his protective embrace.
RAIZADA MANSION, 06:30 AM
The beeping of the annoying morning alarm disturbed Khushi’s sleep as she half-asleep with eyes still close patted around to her bedside table, turning off the damn annoying thing. And though she wanted to go back to sleep as thanks to her naughty husband who didn’t let her sleep until wee hours at early morning, she knew she had to wake up and get ready after then prepare for morning aarti like good bahu.
Opening her eyes lazily as she looked beside her to see her devil of a husband sleeping like an innocent baby with a cute pout, she just melted at how cute he looked while sleeping. Khushi peppered kiss all over his face not being able to resist herself and wrapped silk sheets around her to cover herself and tried to get up, but was instantly pulled back making her crush to Arnav’s chest.
Arnav in sleep husky voice said: “Where are you going...? Don’t you want your return kiss???” he opened his eyes and winked at her naughtily.
Feeling embarrassed at being caught Khushi wiggled wanting to escape but her husband didn’t let her by tightening his hold on her as he naughtily said: “Arey, where you trying to run...that too without giving me proper morning kiss...?”
Saying so Arnav held Khushi and brought his lips to hers making her get lost in his touch as the kiss started as a soft tender kiss which turned into passionate, wild and desire full. Arnav rolled them making Khushi lay flat on her back as he hovered over her still kissing her passionately and with all the love and desire he had for which made Khushi loose her in-habitations and control as he kissed the daylight out of her. They pulled apart finally feeling breathless; Arnav looked at his wife’s lovely face which had turned into lovely shade of red hue, her eyes closed as she slowly opened her eyes looked at him with the love of entire world as he brushed off the baby-hair behind her ear and said in a husky voice: “Good morning, Mishti.”
Khushi lowered her eyes shyly turning brighter red if possible and her chest still heaving up-down from the breathlessness trying to catch her breath with her smudged sindoor and lipstick made her more aphrodisiac in Arnav’s eyes as he felt his desires for her rise again. So he put a finger under her chin and made her look up, said in husky desire filled voice: “This morning is good, but I can think of few things to make this morning even better...”
With suggestive naughty look on his face which always left Khushi shy and rendering her speechless and powerless in front of him. Then Arnav slowly pulled the sheets off her which she was using to cover herself and lowered his lips on her taking her in a passionate kiss, taking her in a world filled with desire and loved only he can take her to... in which where only them wrapped in their little bubble of love.
....
Around 07:30 AM, Khushi looked at the time and started pushing Arnav off her seeing it was getting late which made him get irritated as he kept tightening his hold on her to not let her go. She annoyedly pinched him making him jump and taking the opportunity gathered the sheets around her, covering herself got out of bed. Arnav made a face as he hugged her pillow looked at Khushi who was gathering the scattered cloths around the room and removing the sheets and put on her pink silk night-gown which was thrown off by him last night.
Arnav making face: “Mishti, why did you have to get up...get back here baby!”
Khushi: “No, you get out of bed, it’s getting late...I’ve to go down for puja and you’re getting late for your morning jogging Mister...” sternly trying to get him out of bed.
Arnav tied the bed-sheet around waist as he got out of bed knowing she is climbing in again and stood in front of her as he pulled her close by her waist said: “You know what, I don’t need morning exercise to burn down calories...my wife makes me work quite hard in bed to satisfy her.” giving her a wink and more flirtatious smirk.
Khushi swatted him turning crimson at his shameless comment: “Besharam! Aap mein koi sharam aur haaya naam ki cheez hai ki nahi...?” (Shameless! Do you have anything in name of shame and shyness in you or not..?)
Arnav: “Ab apni biwi se kaisi sharam or kaisi haaya...” (Now what kind of shame and shyness from my own wife...)
Khushi blushed harder and swatted on his chest: “Dhat!” pulling out of his arms, hands him towel and pulls her towel out and puts on her shoulder. She points him towards bathroom saying, “Freshen up fast, after you I need to shower also...” pushing him in and shutting the door after pushing him in and turned to go.
Arnav opened the door popping his head out asked: “Wanna join me in...?”
Khushi: “No thank you...”
Arnav: “Come on hop in, time and water both will be saved...” giving a naughty smile.
Khushi answered back: “Really...? But I think I’ll let it pass... Now hurry up!” turning around and went to fix the bed as he pouted but nonetheless shut bathroom door to freshen up.
After fixing the bed and putting the dirty clothes in laundry basket, she opened the wardrobe, taking his track-suit and kept it on bed, just as Arnav came out of bathroom with one towel around his waist and other around his neck. Khushi shaking her head seeing water dripping from his wet hair and made him sit on edge of bed, taking the towel from around his neck started drying his hair properly as he sat there wrapping his arm around her waist with a cute smile letting her pamper him.
After she dried his hair properly put the towel over her shoulder and smilingly she picked up the track suit and handed him, taking which he went to the walk-in wardrobe for changing into it quickly. In 05 mins he came out changed into track suit and Khushi handed him his phone, handkerchief and his water bottle he takes with himself for jogging. As smilingly Arnav took his things from Khushi and he gave her a kiss on his forehead as she smiled at him, said: “I’ll be back soon...”
Arnav smilingly patted her cheek affectionately as she gave him cute smile and he left for his jogging leaving behind a smiling Khushi who looked at the time and rushed to bathroom seeing it was getting late. Within 20 mins Khushi came out showed wearing her off-white in Bengali style her long hair open as she quickly as in front of mirror putting her on her bangles, sindoor and mangalsutra and quickly made it downstairs to do the morning aarti arrangements once looking clock which showed 08:10 AM.
 |
| KHUSHI'S SARI AND LOOK |
....
Exactly at 08:20 AM, one by one the Raizadas’ started gather at mandir for morning aarti for 08:30 AM aarti. First came was Nani who was pleasantly surprised to see Khushi in mandir already and finished with the required preparation but not very shocked as she had seen Khushi taking up role of elder Bahu with ease, addressed Khushi: “Aap yaha itni subha-subha?” (You here so early in the morning?)
Khushi: “Yeah, I came down to do the aarti preparations...it’s the Daughter-In-Law of the house responsibility, right.”
Nani didn’t say thing more and silently stood their watched Khushi arrange everything alone as she too didn’t attempt to say anything more, simply continuing but inside she was happy that Nani at least talked to her.
After her came Anjali who was shocked to see Khushi has already finished the aarti preparation and Shyam who came along with her, looked lustily at Khushi who sat in front of the idol arranging the aarti thaali. Then came Mamaji and Maamiji doing her usual ‘Hello Hi Bye-bye’, soon after them came energetic NK and Lavanya, who came down with thoughts to demean Khushi if she was late but was surprised to her doing aarti preparations could only stand making a face. Last to come were Akash with Payal as they greeted everyone as they stood with others as Payal saw Khushi doing aarti preparation little perplexed because she thought the aarti preparation was done by Nani or Anjali, no one else.
Nani asked Payal: “Payal bitya, why are you so late??” looking at her with her gaze on her which was very much analyzing her made Payal nervous.
Payal nervously replied: “Woh... woh, I got up little late Dadiji. Sorry, it won’t happen again...” as she tried to look away from the microscopic eyes on her under which was she and her every move, which was quite unnerving if she was being truthful.
Nani said strenly: “I’ll let it go today, but try getting up early because in this house the Daughter-In-Law of the house who does morning aarti preparation like Khushi is doing...”
Manorama: “Hello Hi Bye-bye, bhatjj are you, Queen Victoria jo tum sabse last coming like Maharani, ah khoon bhari tang?” (Hello Hi Bye-bye, what are you, Queen Victoria that you come last like Royal Queem, ah Khoon bhari tang?)
Nani sternly: “Manorama!” shutting up Manorama who did her usual ‘Hello Hi Bye-bye’.
While Payal couldn’t say anything and silently nodded in agreement as she stood embarrassed with the situation, but what can she do, she isn’t use to these things. She has grown up in small family and now after marriage she’s having tough time coping up living such a joint family and all the new responsibilities. She had thought in such a rich family there would be servants and house-help for everything but no like any other typical family it is expected from the Bahu of the house to cook and do the household chores. And she is trying to adjust to all this new things but her Mother-In-Law is making things harder for her in her own way with her tantrums of making her run after her.
Khushi silently got up and with aarti thaali and started doing the aarti as everyone folded hand in prayer. Than after aarti Khushi turned to give everyone Prasad and put tikka, she 1st went to Nani touching her feet; who just kept hand on her head silently, than put tikka and gave Prasad. Then one by one gave Maamiji, Mamaji, Akash, Payal, NK, Lavanya, Anjali and lastly she came and stood before the slimy Shyam who looked at her wickedly as Khushi gave her Prasad waiting for Khushi to put tikka as even for excuse of tikka at least Khushi would touch her, this thought made him smile creepily.
Khushi so didn’t wanted to touch that creepy but couldn’t deliberately escape him without rising suspicion among the family members; hence unwillingly she was about to put tikka on Shyam, but seemed like her lifesaver Arnav walked inside the house. Seeing him entering as he gave her a cute smile which made her smile sweetly in return and without putting tikka on Shyam’s forehead, she made way to her cute loving hubby much to Shyam’s jealousy as saw Arnav-Khushi together and as for Khushi, everything comes after her husband so everyone can think whatever they want.
Arnav watched as Khushi in a simple off-white printed sari and hair open holding the aarti thaali coming to him smiling, she looked like an angel and he really loved the way she wore sari, seems like he has to ask her wear sari like this for whole day sometimes. She stood in front of him greeting him with a smile as she put tikka on his forehead and then fed him Prasad which he ate without any complain, Khushi then tried to bend down to touch his feet but he stopped her midway holding her arm saying: “Hadd hai! How many times do I’ve to tell you, don’t do this!”
Khushi: “But its tradition to touch husband’s feet for blessing”
Arnav: “It’s all nonsense...you’re my wife and your place is in my heart, not at my feet get that. So, don’t do that...”
Kissing her forehead as she felt touched by his words but irritated at same time for him not letting her touch his feet. Seeing her mood go low, Arnav said: “Arey, tumne tikka nahi lagaya?” (You didn’t put tikka?)
Khushi replied: “I was putting tikka to everyone...how I can put on myself...”
Arnav mischievously said: “Yeah, that’s also right...okay then let me put tikka on you.” with a very naughty smile on his face as he was looking at her with mischievous twinkle in his eyes.
Khushi something fishy the way he said and was going to protest but before that he started to bend towards her making her get lost in the depth of his crystal blue eyes, as he slowly put his forehead on hers and rubbed lightly putting kumkum on her forehead from his.
Khushi was all lost in his closeness as Arnav said in low husky voice: “Done...” his breath washing over her face as Arnav saw her eyes close on its own and lips trembling.
Arnav stepped back and feeling him moved away Khushi snapped open her eyes and looked around realizing they were still in hall and the mischievous smile on his lips made her turn crimson lowering her eyes in shyness. Arnav put a finger under her chin making her look at him and he was lost in her violet-hyacinth color eyes, he loved the unique color of her eyes... they were so beautiful that he could look in them all day. They both were lost in their own world without the care of outside but outside world did care a lot to interrupt them which was what exactly happened.
Shyam who was looking at the lovely-dovey moment between Arnav-Khushi burned in jealousy and not being able to take anymore decided to interrupt, called out: “Khushiji, you haven’t put tikka on me and I’m still waiting...”
Arnav-Khushi pulled apart and looked at a red-faced Shyam, but Shyam hadn’t attracted their attention also the rest of the family’s who were present having general conversation. An over-concerned Anjali asked: “Kya huwa Shyamji?” (What happened Shaymji?)
Shyam replied fuming: “Hona kya hai Rani Sahiba, look at Khushiji she left me standing here and without giving the morning aarti tikka, she ran to her husband seeing him entering. Now you tell me it is bad to not take Devi Maiyya’s aarti tikka in the morning, but she is so careless and couldn’t see anything beyond her husband...” making a face.
Anjali seeing her husband angry tried to calm him: “Shyamji please calm down, subha-subha gussa karna acha nahi hai...” then she turned to Khushi angrily scolding her, “Khushiji, what is this how you can make Shyamji wait like this...? How can you ignor-”
She was cut off by Arnav: “Di, stop scolding Khushi unnecessarily...it’s not her fault!”
Anjali looked at her brother in disbelieve to seeing him contradicting her: “Chotte! You’re saying this? You’re taking her side...against ME?!”
Arnav: “Di, stop over-reacting please...”
Khushi tried stopping him saying: “Arnav subha-subha don’t start fighting with Di, let it go please....”
Arnav: “No Mishti they can’t simply use that tone with you such pity issue...”
Anjali angrily: “Pity issue? I’m over-reacting...? Chotte, it’s her fault she was giving Prasad and putting tikka to everyone and she should have put tikka at Shyamji. But not only she left mid, she made him wait...how can she do that?” if it was possible she might have had steam coming out of her ears.
Arnav was losing his cool at Anjali’s behavior said: “Di you’re not kid anymore stop whining for everything and like for you, your husband is important...likewise for Khushi I’m most important person, for her I’m first then everyone else. And what are you shouting at her for one tikka, aap khud kyun nahi laga deti Jeejaji ko...”
Everyone in family was shocked seeing Arnav back-answering his Di, whom he had never contradicted on anything. Anjali was about to say something but Nani spoke first: “Enough of this... Anjali bitya, Chotte stop fighting! And Anjali bitya, Chotte is right...like for you your husband is important; Khushi’s priority is her husband. And it’s about tikka, you yourself put on Daamadji, baat khatam...”
Arnav took the puja-thaali from Khushi and passed to Anjali said sarcastically: “Now you yourself put as many tikka’s on Jeejaji you want and Jeejaji, get the tikka from your wife, as many as you want...”
Making a face Arnav took Khushi’s hand and left from there leaving behind a shock family at fuming Anjali who wanted to simply throw Khushi out for taking her brother from her, a jealous Shyam and Lavanya while rest of the family shocked seeing Arnav getting so protective of Khushi. They all started getting back to their normal routine after morning drama.
Arnav was dragging Khushi towards but she stopped him at stairs making him to face her as she said: “Arnav, you go upstairs I’m coming in 05 mins...” as she tried to move away.
Arnav: “Now what?” making an irritated face.
Khushi: “I’ll just check if everything for breakfast is done or not...you head up, I’m coming...” giving him explanation again trying to leave.
Making a face Arnav let go off her hand saying: “Come quick, you’ve to dry my hair and you know I can’t get ready without your help...” not wanting her to go.
Khushi teasing him said: “Arnav it’s only 2nd day we’re married and you’re like I’m doing these things for you since ages... What you used to do before our marriage?” with a smile playing on her lips.
Arnav simply said sweetly: “Two days or not, I don’t care... Now you’re here and I love your helping me in my little-little things, it’s like you’re pampering me. And I love being pampered by you, so come fast!” kissed her cheek before going upstairs.
Khushi could simply shake her head smiling at her cute hubby’s antics, he might be arrogant rude jerk to world but he is so childish in front of her, doing anything and everything to get her attention and pampering from her. She went in kitchen and gave HP quick instructions knowing her hubby would shake the whole house if she didn’t make it quick. Hence, she made way to her room for changing the sari and help her hubby to get ready.
Getting inside the room she heard the shower in bathroom making her aware of Arnav being inside, so she went to wardrobe and started taking out his suit, keeping it on bed. Arnav came out of the washroom seeing her taking out sari for her to change and his cloths kept nicely on bed. He made way to her as Khushi turned to face him and Arnav forward her the towel around his neck, sitting on the recliner and she smilingly took the towel from him and started wiping his hair dry while he wrapped he wrapped his arm around her waist.
Arnav causally asked: “Are you gonna change the sari?”
Khushi simply: “Hmmm...” continuing her task.
Arnav: “You should wear sari this way more often like for whole day sometimes...” told her sweetly.
Khushi stopped taken back by his odd request asked: “Why?” going back on her work as he gestured her.
Arnav simply replied: “I really like the way you dress up like this, all beautiful cute Bengali bride... Please someday dress-up like this for whole day...” requesting cutely.
Khushi smiled replying him: “Okay, when you’ll be home all day, I’ll wear sari like this for you...theek hai?” keeping the towel aside and Arnav flashed a dimple smile at her nodding his head liking the idea as she was done told him, “Now get ready, I need to change too...” moving to take her sari and go to washroom for changing.
Arnav went to bed picking up the blue suit with light blue shirt and a check tie she had taken out for him and started to change into it. As Arnav finished buttoning up his shirt after wearing his pant, he heard the washroom door click before opening and came out Khushi as a vision in blue-cream sari with her hair open, looking like Neeli-Pari who descended on earth only for him. And all he could do was stop and stare at her with moony-eyes.
 |
| KHUSHI'S SARI |
Khushi walked up to him with her cheeks turning pink at his gaze on her and the look in his eyes, she simply picked up the tie from bed and stood in front of him and put the tie around his neck then started knotting the tie. Arnav smilingly wrapped his arm around her waist and mischievously running his fingers on her skin, tickling her. She swatted his hand in warning: “Behave!” showed him big eyes to stop but he simply smiled broader continuing his teasing.
Khushi finished up knotting his tie said: “Aap na bohat badmash ho...” (You’re very naughty...)
Arnav naughtily replied: “Ab tumhare saath badmashi na karoon toh kiske saath karoon...pardosi ki biwi?” (Now if I don’t do naughty things with you, whom I suppose to do...neighbor's wife?)
Khushi swatted him and pulled away, picking up his waist-coat helped him, wearing it and then picked his coat and helped him putting it on.
 |
| ARNAV'S SUIT |
Arnav quickly went in front of mirror brushed his hair and turned around as Khushi held her right hand out holding his wallet, handkerchief and phone which he took from her put in his pocket. Then she forwarded her left hand holding his watch and taking from her he quickly put it on smiling at her and walked to the coffee table checking if he took all important files, keeping them in his laptop bag. While Khushi stood in front of mirror applied her coral-pink lip-gloss, she put on her matching earrings and through mirror she saw Arnav searching something which made her shake her head as she opened the 1st drawer of the bedside table of his side took out the car keys and walked up to him and held in front of him.
Arnav took the keys from her saying: “Thank you, really where you find it? I couldn't find it anywhere...” as he gave him a grateful smile to her.
Khushi: “Wahi jaha aap humesha rakhte hai, in you bedside table 1st drawer.” in her 'duh' tone. (Right where you always keep, in you bedside table 1st drawer.)
Arnav gave a smiled sleepily saying: “What am I going to do without you?!”
Khushi just shook her head at his dramatics and held her right hand out holding her sindoor-daan asked him silently to fill her maang which he happily did, kissed her forehead and she said smiling: "Aapko pata hai? Yeh sab se khubsoorat ehsaas hai jo hum mehsoos karti hai jabhi aap humari maang bharte ho. Yeh choti-choti cheezein hain jo hume humesha ye ehsaas dilati hain ki hum, ‘Hum’ hai...'Main’ aur ‘Tum’ nahi.” (You know? This is the most beautiful feeling that I feel whenever you fill my maang. These little-little things always remind me that we are ‘We’...and not ‘You’ and ‘Me’.)
Arnav hugged her tight and she reciprocated, after few moments she pulled back and kissed his cheek. She went to dressing table kept her sindoor-box, turned smiled at Arnav asked: “Now can we go down for breakfast?”
Arnav nodded picked up his laptop bag and wrapped one arm around her waist holding her close to him as he gave her a cute smile showing his deep-dig dimples which were returned by Khushi who flashed her bright dimple smile as they both went downstairs.
When Arnav-Khushi came to dinner table for breakfast saw everyone already seated as the dishes were brought by HP and Payal on the table. Arnav sat on his seat wishing all his usual ‘Good morning’ as Khushi started serving his breakfast and then sat down beside him helping herself while Payal with HP served rest of the family and after that Payal too sat down for her breakfast and HP felt to finish his other chores.
The breakfast had been a quite affair with normal chatting and no drama was created here as everyone quickly finished. Nani finishing hers went to her room as Mamaji also left for office, Shyam too got up to go office doing his overly-sugary-good-husband act asking Anjali to take care of herself, NK danced to his room going to call his friend for confirming if the lunch plan was still on, Maamiji fluttered to living room followed by Payal as Akash softly said he is going to office to which Manorama simply ‘Bye bye’ him; whereas he want Payal to see him off till door but his mother didn’t let them so he simply said goodbye and left, Lavanya had gone to her room to take her purse and important files needed in office.
On other side Khushi walked Arnav till the porch, and he looked around seeing no one in sight, not that he cared if anyone saw...he pulled Khushi who came crushing to his chest wrapped arms around her and brought his lips on her, kissing her passionately as she wrapped her arms around his neck kissing him back with equal love and passion. They came up for air, pulling their lips apart from each other, looking in each other’s and Khushi turned red under his gaze.
Arnav brushed he lock of hair behind her ear said softly: “I don’t wanna go office...”
Khushi sweetly replied: “But you’ve to go...”
Arnav made a baby face complaining: “Why do I’ve to go...? Can’t I spend all day with you...just you and me?”
Khushi smiled saying: “As much as I would love that, but we can’t...you have office and I’ve household chores to take care...” Arnav made a face not willing to leave her as she looked at his face lovingly making him give her a loving looks, “It’s okay na Jaana you go to office, anyways I’m coming to office with your lunch...”
Arnav smiled at the lunch together thought: “Yeah, that’s better you come with lunch to office...” he pecked her lips few times before he finally walked to his car got in and waved her as she smilingly blew flying kisses at him which he pretended to catch, then started the engine and zoomed out of the main gates while she stood smiling and after he was out of sight turned around to walk inside instead came face-to-face unexpectedly with Lavanya.
Lavanya stood their fuming at Khushi, she had witnessed the whole scene when she had walked out of the house and was so very jealous seeing ASR all romancing with Khushi while he never talked to her lovingly in their whole relationship period. She walked up to Khushi wanting to demean her knowing now even ASR wasn’t here to defend her, sarcastically said: “Wow Chamkili! You’ve really done it...I’ve to say you fooled us quite well, no one even got the wind of your plan and you successfully accomplished it...”
Khushi frowningly asked: “Matlab?” (Meaning?)
Lavanya angrily spoke the words: "Nicely trapped ASR ah! I never expected this from you Chamkili... but guess what, middle-class girl like you know only one thing i.e. to trap rich guys like ASR and what better could be expected from you!"
Khushi calmly said: “Lavanyaji I know you’re being bitter...I know you're hurt with Arnav marrying me and I’m really sorry that you feel betrayed. But don’t regret marrying him because our reason is simple, he loves me and I love him...and I’m not going to be the selfless-sacrificing person nor I’m stupid enough to turn my back on my true love which was being reciprocated for someone else knowing on one would be happy. So for once I wanted to be selfish and wanted my love in my life regardless to others...that’s what we did and I don’t regret any of it. So if you trying to give me guilt-trips it’s of no use.”
Lavanya fumed: “Of course you’re selfish, all the while acting to be my friend and then you snatched my ASR from me!”
Khushi said possessively: “First of all it’s not your ASR...he is MINE, be it ASR or Arnav. Secondly, you both were over quite some time back, even before Jiji and Akashji’s engagement...so snatching from you is out of question, when he wasn’t yours in first place. Lavanyaji, I’m sorry for your heartbreak but I sincerely hope you find your true love one day...”
Saying so Khushi walked inside while Lavanya stood their burning in anger and jealousy as she angrily said: “ASR loves you, my foot! I’ll take back what is mine and ASR is mine!” storming out from there. Walked to her car and getting in, started the engine and zoomed out of RM gates.
.....................................
A.R. DESIGNS, DELHI, 10:30 AM
The news of ASR marrying Khushi has traveled in the office at lightning speed, which a peon heard Aman talk with Akash when they came office for brief hours. And the hot gossip of the day was that their cold-heartless boss eloped and got married, now who could’ve thought that the man who uses to run away from the ‘marriage’ would ever marry...that too by eloping. As the signal of ASR’s car entering office premises made the employees rush back to work and when ASR walked in all got up greeting ‘Good morning’ like always. But for the first time that they received a ‘Good morning’ from ASR that too with a polite smile as he walked to his cabin, without seeing behind him everyone go googly-eyes and funny faces of identical shock expression.
Lavanya walked into the office received sympathized looks from everyone which she determinedly ignored, but the way ignoring the looks is easy ignoring words aren’t...and the words were floating around in office. Everyone had eyes on Lavanya’s moves and whispering among each other behind her back, all seem have opinion that Khushi was more suitable for ASR as he seemed more mellowed and in pleasant mood than ever. Everyone felt that Khushi brought ASR’s better side as everyone has in past witnessed the sublet changes Khushi had always seem to have brought in him, and as for Lavanya, she herself is such a Drama-queen...always throwing tantrums at the drop of hat, how could she handle ASR. Lavanya could only silently fume at the behind-her-back whispering comments, she has a plan to work on; hence she ignored everyone and continuing her work with her two minions following her.
_____________
RAIZADA MANSION, 12:50 PM
It was quite afternoon in Raizada household, Nani was in her room feeding her pet goat grass like always, Maamiji had gone out to some kitty party also taken Payal with her, Anjali was in her room resting as she was in a sleepy-mood which Nani said to be her pregnancy hormones and Khushi was in kitchen preparing lunch with HP’s help, humming a song softly with a shy smile playing on her lips as the song she was humming reminded her of her cute naughty hubby: "Kabhi aar kabhi paar laga teri nazar, Kabhi aar kabhi paar laga teri nazar... Saiyaa ghaayal kiya re tune mora jigar...."
The doorbell rang and Khushi asked HP: “HPji can you please see who it is?”
HP nodded saying: “Ji Bhabhi” and went away to see who the visitor is.
Khushi smilingly packing Arnav’s lunchbox and NK walked into kitchen making her stop as she asked: “You want something Devarji?”
NK smiled replying: “I just came for a glass of water...”
Khushi: “Wait, I’m giving you.”
Khushi picked a glass from shelf and pouring water, she handed him with a polite smile and NK thanked her as she went back to her work of packing lunch for her husband which she especially made for him, his favorite. After drinking water NK kept the glass but he kept his eyes on Khushi, observing her every move; it would be a lie if he said that he didn’t get charmed by her when they first met and he liked her....liked her a lot. Her responding to his silly flirting during Akash’s wedding made him quite confident that he could make her fall for him, but all things changed when unexpectedly Arnav-Khushi walked in through the doors of Shantivaan married.
He had seen how in-love they’re with each other, it’s like they couldn’t see anything beyond each other and he has also seen changes in their individual personalities. It’s no doubt that Arnav has changed from cold-heartless ASR who didn’t care about anything in world and his first priority was his Di, now turned into warm loving and caring Khushi’s Arnav who loves his wife more than anything in his life...maybe more than his Di. But there are changes in Khushi also, its correct that she was always a bubbly, chirpy, fun-loving girl who always laughed and smiled, but there was something missing in her smiles and laughs which weren’t seen behind the happy facade. Now it seems to be gone, her smiles and laugh reaches her eyes...the love and adoration in her eyes for Arnav made NK realize that he could’ve never gotten that look for himself from her ever and he felt jealous from Nannav for getting it all that he was hoping to make his. And he had simply accepted the heartbreak... his first heartbreak, but he was happy that his cousin found his true happiness after all the hardships he faced in life. He knew time would heel his aching heart; there is someone else who is destined for him, his ‘The One’...what about the this treacherous heart who doesn’t seem to heed him.
He placed the glass on the counter and giving Khushi a polite smile left the kitchen. HP after a minute or two came there with a mafia-envelope in hand and said to Khushi: “Bhabhi aapke liye koi courier aaya hai...” (Bhabhi a courier came for you...)
Khushi looked at him confused asking: “For me...?” HP nodded and she said, “Okay, you keep it on the counter I’ll see it later and now please chop the salad for me...”
He nodded again and got on working on what she asked him. Khushi closed the sabzi dabba and turned to see HP chopping tomatoes for salad, so she instructed him: “HPji, you please pack the salad after chopping it and then keep the Tiffin in the basket and please Mohanji se kahke sab car mein rakhwa dijiye...”
HP nodded and Khushi picked the courier from the counter, made way upstairs to her room wanting to change before taking lunch to office and now since this courier arrived for her, she might check it as well.
What Khushi hadn’t noticed was a pair of stern eyes analyzing her, which were none other than of Devyani Raizada with her lips pressed in thin line. She was observing Khushi’s moves since morning and she has to admit this to herself that Khushi has settled effectively in the role of Arnav’s wife and Raizada’s elder Daughter-In-Law very nicely... maybe she herself having searched the whole world couldn’t find a better bride for her elder grandson. It really amazed her how Khushi has silently taken the charge of the household without family’s help while Payal was still struggling to settle down, it’s not Payal is bad or something but simply having hard time adjusting in new family and the new responsibility while Khushi seems so spontaneous. It’s amazing how both girls are brought-up by same family yet both have so different trails and traditional values, where Payal is juggling between her new role of a wife and new responsibilities as a daughter-in-law. Khushi seem to have found her balance of fulfilling her responsibility of a daughter-in-law yet her husband is her first priority. It seems like there is more of Khushi that is to be discovered by everyone.
*****
Khushi entered her room and closing the door sat on bed as she looked the envelope for sender’s name but found none strangely. With a frown she curiously opened the envelope, emptied the contents on her lap and some photos with a folded piece of paper fell on her lap. She curiously gathered the photos and turned around to see them and what she saw was completely unexpected.
The photos were of Arnav-Lavanya’s, they were pictures like both went on some party dancing together, at some dinner laughing with hands held kept on the table, Lavanya hugging him, her kissing his cheek and along with those old photos were photos of what seem like taken in office today where Lavanya had her arms around Arnav’s neck and he held her by waist, like she was falling and he held her to steady her, but it was the way they looked in each others...Lavanya was looking at him with pain standing behind him had a hand kept on his shoulder and Arnav to had an hurt face, than other photo of them standing very close to each other, one seemed like they were almost hugging each other with tears brimming in Lavanya’s eyes.
These pictures pricked Khushi’s heart as she picked the folded piece of paper keeping the photos aside. She started reading the content of it, a letter addressed to her with tears clinging to her eyes ready to fall.
To Khushiji,
I’m sending you these photos to make you aware of your husband’s true colours. I know you’re very much hurt seeing these photos but you should know the truth...you think your husband loves you but that’s not true, he is simply using you. You’re his new shining toy he is playing with, till he gets bored and throws you like a used tissue paper. He doesn’t love you, he loves Lavanya, and in fact he is two-timing on you. Now only you think he says he loves you and that’s why he married you but if he loves you and there is nothing between him and Lavanya, than why hasn’t he asked her to leave RM yet?
Khushiji he married you only because he wanted to bed you as you’re the type of girl who wouldn’t have physical relation with anyone before marriage, while the other girls in his life readily agreed for live-in relationship like Lavanya...but he knew you won’t and also he thought that you being so naive soul is easy to keep under control as he could do whatever he wants, so he married you. He has many girls in his life and you have seen Lavanya, you’ve yourself witnessed their live-in relation... He cannot be satisfied by one woman.
Arnav Singh Raizada is a total Casanova and a womanizer, the whole world knows it...a very well known fact, everyday in Page-03 news he has a new girl hanging in his arms. Now even after know the truth you wanna stay with such a man? You want to stay with him waiting for him to throw you out of his life like a tissue-paper? You have to decide what you want, but in my opinion you deserve better than this Khushiji. If you don’t believe me, call office, you’ll know that right now Arnav is in his cabin alone with Lavanya and has asked no one to disturb the....also let me tell you that they’re alone in cabin for past hour and ASR has asked not to be disturbed for few hours. Now what is so important happening between them for so long inside the cabin alone...that made ASR give instruction not to disturb them...? You guess what might be happening behind the doors. I’m telling Khushiji if you question Arnav...even showing these pictures to him than he’ll deny and brush you off saying you’re being unnecessarily suspicious and it’s only professional between him and Lavanya and give you some lame crap excuse...so better you don’t mention about this courier and question him or else he’ll easily make excuse saying someone trying to frame him and you’re so naive Khushiji that you’ll again fall for his lies.
Yours concerned,
Well-wisher
Khushi felt like crying reading the letter as tears filled her eyes. She picked her phone and dialled Arnav’s number which was switched off. After few unsuccessful attempts she called office to his Personal Secretary, Neha Saha who picked up after few rings formally greeted with: “Good afternoon, this is AR Designs...how I may help you?”
Khushi wiping her silent tears simontaliously as she asked trying to calm voice: “Hi, I’m Khushi Arnav Singh Raizada speaking...can you please forward the line to Arnav please? I called on his mobile but it’s switched off...”
Neha: “I’m sorry ma’am but ASR is busy in meeting with Lavanya ma’am in his cabin and he has asked not to be disturbed by anyone... Any message for him I can pass along when he is free...”
Khushi gulped the lump in her throat controlling her emotions said: “Just inform him that I can’t come with his lunch and I’ve send his lunch with the driver. So he takes his lunch and medicines in time, will you please tell him?”
Neha politely replied: “Sure ma’am...anything else?”
Khushi: “No, thank you...”
Keeping the call, Khushi took deep breaths and quickly wiped her tears as she went downstairs to kitchen, finding HP said to him: “HPji can you please ask Mohanji to take the lunch to office? I’m not feeling well, so I’m not going anymore...”
HP concernedly asked: “Kya huwa Badi Bhabhi?”
Khushi smilingly replied: “Kuch nahi, just mild headache...I’m fine” hiding her inner turmoil.
HP nodded: “Theek hai, Bhabhi...”
Khushi: “You please ask Mohanji to leave now, or else it will get late for him to eat lunch. I’m going to my room for resting and I won’t be eating lunch today...” HP nodded and walked off to do what he was asked to do while Khushi silently made way to her room.
Entering her room silently she closed the door behind her, her eyes fell on the envelope and its contents on bed which she quickly picked it up and put back in the envelope, taking it she hid it in one of the drawer in her side of wardrobe. She walked up to the bed and fell on her stomach clutched Arnav’s pillow hugging it she let her tears to spill and broke into bitter heartbreaking sobs. As she wondered how it happened with her, she was happy and content one moment and next second came this envelope which made her a mess with turmoil inside her, as she cried her heart out alone in the privacy of her room hugging the pillow of the one person she loves the most and wishing to be in the confines of his protective embrace.
