CHAPTER 12: Moments
ONE WEEK LATER
G.K. CONSTRUCTIONS – 01:17 PM
It has been a very busy day in G.K. Constructions office since the morning but as the afternoon rolled up things started to get considerably slow and steady. Right now Arnav and Khushi finished up briefing the project team working on the collaboration project G.K. Constructions is doing with A.K.R. and the team consists of Lavanya, Anjali, Aman, Akash, Payal, Tuli, Samar, Yuvraj, Mayuri and NK from G.K. while from A.K.R were Arnav, Khushi, Neev, Amaya, Abir, Sana and Rajveer and Ishaani is on maternity leave but still keeping updates and helping from home if needed.
Everyone was gathering their belongings and casually chatting along ready to take lunch break. Samar along with Ranveer was teasing Arnav about his famous drunken performance on holi much to his annoyance. He exclaimed annoyed: “Can’t you just get over it already!” huffing out loud.
Samar laughed claiming: “I’m not letting you get over it; it’s so fun rubbing it on your face...”
Abir amusedly asked: “But seriously Arnie, did you really do the filmy ‘Drunken Suicide’... I mean like since when do you watch cliché Bollywood movies?!”
Sana pouted sulking: “I missed all the fun and that is so not fair!” throwing her hands in air showing her displeasure of missing all the fun.
Neev comments: “It wasn’t that great, Sana trust me handling drunken tantrums is like handling bunch of sugar rush toddlers.” looking at Sana with serious eyes.
Amaya says solemnly: “I totally empathize with you Arnie...” giving him an understanding look and turns to the others saying, “Yeah guys get over it!” as she was too been teased after holi.
Ranveer jovially says: “Anyways since we’re already making Arnie embarrass, why not we talk more of Arnie’s embarrassing stories?” grinning ear to ear.
Arnav groaned and Samar jumped excitedly: “Oh, more Arnav’s embarrassing stories!”
Ranveer: “I can remember one, so to speak... remember guys that prank we pulled on Arnie about Katya died?”
Neev and Abir exclaimed together: “WHAT?!”
Khushi frowned: “Veer, that wasn’t even funny...” remembering the incident he was referring to.
Till now the ones who were listening had felt their curiosity pick up, so being the always curious Mayuri asked: “Which incident are you guys talking about?”
Ranveer jumps answering: “I’ll tell you, it was few years ago and it were like 03-04 months since Arnie and Katya were dating. So one evening at my house...”
Khushi sat around with her group of friends, her best friend - Ishaani, Ranveer - Ishaani’s boyfriend and one of their other friends, Josh. Her boyfriend, Arnav, was supposed to be there but he was at home sick with the flu. They were in Ranveer's living room, sitting around on the floor and goofing off. They decided to do a throwback to middle school and play a game of truth or dare.
It was Josh's turn to ask someone and he picked Ishaani: "Ishaani, I dare you to call Arnav and tell him that Khushi died."
Khushi cracked a smile, knowing how he would react but shook her head saying: "No, you can't do that...he'll kill you, all of you and maybe even me.”
Ranveer said: "Probably, but you have to do it, Isha and you are a good actress... you can pull it off." still wanting to pull this prank on Arnav.
Isha picked up her phone: "Okay, fine I'll do it." but Khushi smacked it out of her hand, not wanting her boyfriend to get hurt.
Then Josh came over and sat on Khushi, pinning her to the floor after a brief struggle which he of course won. He put his hand over her mouth, successfully silencing her and she tried to lick it, but he just ignored her. Ishaani dialled Arnav's number and put him on speaker, shushing the rest of them, well the rest of them that weren't being silenced.
Arnav’s groggy-sleepy voice erupted from the phone: "Hullo?" coughing and Khushi could picture him lying in his bed, sleepily rubbing his eyes.
Ishaani started fake crying and saying: "Arnav, I have to tell you something... It's about Katya..."
He asked: "What's wrong? What's wrong with Mahi? Is she okay?" immediately snapping out of his sleepiness.
She faked hiccuping in-between her sobs replies: "Ka-- Katya... She‐- she's dead."
Arnav forced laughed saying groggily: "No! You're kidding... you have to be effing joking." totally not believing what Isha was telling him.
But Ishaani conveniently webbed a fake story of Khushi’s supposed suicide and told him: "No, she committed suicide... She didn't show up at Veer's tonight, so I went over there... I found her on her bathroom floor with bloody cuts on her wrists, a toilet full of puke and an open bottle of pills..." as she sobbed in-between which almost made even Khushi believe her story.
He whispered like not wanting to believe yet couldn’t deny: "No... Not Khushi... Not my Mahi... Why would she do that? If this is a joke, I'm going to kill you." threateningly in the end as to end the prank.
She sobbed: "I wish it was a joke but it's not a joke... She's really dead..."
He exclaimed now believing her: "Oh My Gosh!" as he continued on to swear, in a heavy, choked voice. Khushi could picture his facial expression and it hurt her, so she started squirming again and Josh bounced on her, so she was forced to stop, focusing on breathing and not actually dying.
Isha asked in a quiet voice: "Are you crying?" sniffing and hiccuping a little.
Arnav replied: "Maybe... Are you?" in low steady voice trying to cover his emotions. He is always like this, not showing his emotions easily to anyone but Khushi could always read them and he opened up to her willingly.
She confessed: "So much..." with all honesty she could.
Then a few moments of silence was there after which he said: "I'm coming over there... Where are you? I'm in the car now..." slight commotion could be heard from other side of him moving around.
She tried saying: "But you're sick, don't you still have a high fever?"
He instantly replied from the other side: "It doesn't matter, I'm freaking out... I love her so much..." almost agitated.
Not having any option Isha told him: "We're at Ranveer's place... but don't come over here." trying to talk him out from coming.
Arnav simply said: "Too late, I'll be there in two minutes..." and simply cut the line, clearly on his way to Ranveer’s house.
Isha after hanging up the call stared at the phone a moment or two then loudly shrieked: "What do we do? He's coming over!" getting into panic mode, she might have pulled the joke which in the beginning seemed fun but now clearly scared of Arnav’s wrath which they would receive when he gets to know that he had been played.
Ranveer said: "Let's have Katya hide then surprise him and that why he would get distracted with her then to get angry on us for the prank." coming up with an escape plan to get away from Arnav’s anger, as if that would happen, Khushi thought.
Josh finally got off of Khushi, letting her breathe again and she forced in a huge breath then burst out at them: "Did you hear his voice? He's so sad... He's going to kill you, Veer!"
He frowned asking: "Why me?"
Khushi replied him the obvious: "Because you're his best friend and he can't hit Isha, who also happens to be your girlfriend..."
Suddenly there was a knock at the door and she was shoved into the closet but left the door open a crack, so she could see. Ranveer opened the door and Arnav walked in looking like a mess but still cute to her. On top of being sick, he had obviously cried a little in the car as he looked around. Then collapsed on the floor dejectedly, his head in his hands whispered: "She's not here... She really is dead, I can't believe it..." his shoulders slumped and shaking slightly from his silent sobs.
Josh said soberly: "I'm sorry buddy..."
Ranveer looked at the closet and gestured with his eyes for her to come out. Khushi opened the door quietly, tip toed up to him and wrapped him up in a hug from behind making him whipped around and his jaw dropped, exclaiming: "Mahiya! You're okay! You're not dead! Oh! Thank god..." muttering with utter relief and peppering her face with kisses.
He stood up and attacked her with a hug, pressing her body into his as buried his face in her neck, kissing it tenderly: "I love you... I love you so much, baby..."
Khushi replied him in equally adoring tone: "I love you too, Arnav."
He slowly let her go, looking at her and smiling but then his grin started fading as realization dawn upon him: "Then it was a joke all along and even you played along them Isha... Oh now, somebody is about to die!" whirled on Ranveer, delivering a swift punch to the nose.
Ranveer joked after receiving the weak punch: "That punch was weak, dude. I expected better, but sorry... It was pretty funny..." laughing a little.
Arnav replied making a face: "I'm sick, I can't help it that I feel like crap. Is this one better?" then he whipped around and punched Veer in the gut.
Ranveer huffed out: "Ooof!" doubling over, holding his stomach and then says, “That hurts!” as after a moment pain goes away.
And Josh commented off-handed looking at Ranveer with sympathy: "Much..." and put his hand up in surrendering but nonetheless receiving a hit in his head from Arnav.
Ranveer and Arnav did a bro hug thing after which he pulled Khushi to the couch as she easily sat down and he laid down wrapping his arms around her waist and laying his head in her lap. She ran her hands through his soft hair.
Khushi asked: "How do you feel?" and pressed a hand to his forehead.
Arnav replied weakly: "Not great."
Ishaani asked: "How high is your fever?"
Arnav: "103, last time I checked."
Ranveer said: "Here, man, I'll get you a blanket..." retrieving a blanket from the other room and threw it at Khushi’s face which she spread it across Arnav's body.
He faced her stomach, burying his face in her, groaning softly as he grumbled: "I hate all of you, except you, Mahi... for making me get out of bed today..." and she rubbed his back in smoothing manner.
Khushi told him: "I tried to stop them, but Josh was sitting on me..." as ran her fingers though his wavy hair.
Josh simply said: "Goodnight, Arnie..." seeing his friend is all sleepy and eyes doping shut.
Arnav groaned in response and Khushi rhythmically rubbed circles on his back, running her fingers through his hair. She felt him shaking even though he was really warm and his eyes fluttered closed, as he quickly fell asleep... He really needed the rest, Khushi thought. The rest of them hung out, ordered pizza and watched movies for hours but Arnav slept through the whole thing.
My poor baby, Khushi thought as she looked at him love filled eyes. Their friends found the sight of them very cute as Ishaani clicked a photo of them in phone immediately capturing the cute moment. Even later when Khushi left, untangling Arnav’s body from hers, he didn't wake up and so she left him sleeping on Ranveer's couch, after kissing his forehead lovingly. Later Arnav called Khushi to pick him up the next morning because he didn't feel like driving.
Ranveer finish of sharing the tale: “So like that we pulled a prank on Arnie and we had falling for it... you see it’s really hard to pull successful pranks on him.” as he concludes his story and gets all kind of varying from the listeners.
One hand there were the usual bunch of jealous people and then there were others smiling at the cute story. Mayuri and Amaya cooed dreamily together: “Awwwiiieee, how cute is that...”
Samar laughed out loud: “You seriously fell for that Arnav... I mean how you can believe Khushi suicide story... why would she do that?” exclaimed and Yuvraj just smiled softly realizing yet again how much Arnav is love with Khushi.
Abir frowned: “It’s not cute and defiantly not funny...” then pointedly looked at Ranveer saying, “You shouldn’t have pulled a prank on Arnie like that. He was sick like having a 103 fever and you guys made him drive, what if he had an accident..?” clearly not finding anything funny or cute.
Neev too nodded in agreement: “Yeah, he could’ve gotten seriously injured if something like that had happened... And why the heck Josh was bouncing on Katya, what if she had gotten hurt?! Once we get back to England, I’m personally dealing with Josh so that he thinks 10 times before he handles Katya like that again.” totally getting into over-protective big brother mode.
Ranveer: “Oops, looks like I shouldn’t have told this in front of the big brothers...” clearly sensing that he landed himself in trouble.
Arnav had pulled Khushi in a side hug and kissing the top of her head, reassuring himself that she is safe besides him. He still shivers remembering the panic he had felt that evening with the thought that he might have lost her. The he looked up to see his brother-in-laws glaring at his best friend and said: “And Veer didn’t you tell them the after story of how I made you pay back for pulling that prank on me..?” raising an eyebrow at his friend.
Yuvraj comments: “Yeah as far as we know Arnav, he won’t let anyone get away so easily...he defiantly did a comeback, didn’t he?” looking at Ranveer for answer.
Khushi started giggling at that and answered: “Oh, he most definitely did and they didn’t even know what hit them.” as all looked at her expectantly and she explained, “After Arnav got well and all thought that he might have forgotten about the prank and silently listened to their teasing for some time, he planned his own pay back. First, he changed Josh’s shampoo with some rainbow neon color dye and when his hair was all rainbows he told him that he can’t dye it or something because than it will do some permanent damage to his hair and not even shave his hair then his hair will grow rainbow color. So poor Josh had to roam around a month with rainbow neon color hair...” and everyone laughed at that and she further went telling, “Then there was Veer and Isha on whom he took a joint revenge. Arnav had messed with Veer’s event reminders and changed Isha’s birthday reminder and without reminder Veer forgot about her birthday and then tricked into sending Veer at his some ex’s party while Isha kept waiting. Later Isha blasted on Veer for forgetting her birthday and fumed more that he was at his some ex’s party... man, it took Veer a month to make her talk to him again.” then laughing more remembering the time.
Ranveer pouted: “I didn’t see that coming, Arnie had totally caught me off-guard... man it was so had to pacify Isha... she almost broke up with me and that’s it not even funny!” crossing his arms over his chest.
Then Arnav spoke: “And you would be caught off-guard yet again if you don’t stop teasing me over the Holi thing, Veer. Since Isha is pregnant now, it’s ten times easier to instigate her and a lot harder to pacify her... do you want me to do that?!” looking at her quzzingly.
Ranveer gasped in horror: “You won’t do that!”
Arnav simply said: “Humor me...” with a de-pan look and Veer had held his hands up in surrender making all laugh especially Samar which made Arnav eyes go on him and says, “And what are you laughing at so much Sammy boy... do you want me to tell everyone about your ‘Dhanno’ incident..?”
Now Samar paled almost screamed: “You won't!” and Arnav gave an evilly smirked making Samar gulp in fear.
Akash looked between the two and asked: “What are you talking about Arnav?” wanting to know what’s up about his little brother.
Before Arnav can say anything, Samar jumped in-between: “NOTHING! It’s nothing Bhai... totally nothing.” while looking at Arnav pleadingly.
Arnav shrugged replying Akash: “Not cheeky anymore, are we now..?” raising an eyebrow at Samar who immediately shook his head and then he turned to Akash said, “Nothing important...” making Samar sign in relief but added, “...only till Samar stops with the teasing.” to which Samar nodded hurriedly as to say no more teasing from him anymore.
So with that the topic was changed quickly by Samar and everyone too went with the flow as they wrapped their belongings. Then everyone started exiting the conference room chatting amongst each other and making way to canteen for lunch seeing it is lunch time already. Among all these Lavanya had been very silent with other things running on her mind but clearly wanting to stay silent over those didn’t say anything.
...............................
07:00 PM
It was evening now and employees had started leaving for the day those who had finished their work and others were trying to wrap up as soon as possible. Lavanya was working on a project report in her cabin but clearly not having full attention on it, her mind was dwelling over the story she heard about Arnav-Khushi from Ranveer today. Did Arnav really care for Khushi so much? Did he really loved her now and moved on? But how can he wasn’t she his first love and didn’t he say that you never forget your first love easily...then how can he be over her?
Lavanya felt her thoughts too jumbled up and shut the file in her hands; placing it on the table she rubbed her face tiredly wondering why things have to be so complicated. She rested her head back and closed her eyes for few moments then opening them her eyes landed on the photo kept on her desk. It was photo of her and Arnav from their engagement day, exchanging rings with smile on their faces, how happy they were that day... why can’t they be like this now? And then the memories of the engagement day flooded in her mind, a day that truly changed her life drastically...more than she had expected or ever wanted.
06 YEARS, 05 MONTHS AGO
ITC MAURYA, DELHI – 28/JULY/2010
The banquet hall of ITC Maurya was beautifully decorated with flowers, silk drapes and lights following the theme of white and gold. The hall was full of guests and why not after all it was engagement of Sashi Gupta’s daughter, Lavanya Gupta with one and only son of Business tycoon Manav Raizada, Arnav Raizada. The Guptas’ and the Raizada families were meeting and greeting their guests while Lavanya in maroon-golden dress sat on the stage along with Arnav in black Armani suit with silk black button down shirt and red silk tie with all smiles and joy of getting engaged clearly visible on their glowing faces.
Ranveer smiled at few guests and made way to Arpita and Manav who were greeting a few guests whom he smiled as he stood beside the elder couple who gestured the guests inside then turn to him. Arpita asks curiously: “Veer, what are you doing here and why aren’t you besides Arnie?”
Ranveer made a face replying: “It’s too much to see my best friend destroying his life and I can’t do anything about it...”
Manav confused: “What! What do you mean by destroying his life?”
He rolled his eyes explaining: “What else can I say uncle, Arnie is ruining his life... this girl Lavanya is just so wrong for him in every possible way. You know she wants to settle in India and you that’s not possible for Arnie... I can clearly see that marrying that woman is going to be the biggest disaster of his life and I can’t do anything to stop him!” almost pulling his own hair out of frustration.
Arpita made a face agreeing: “So right Veer, I totally get what you’re saying... this girl is possibly the biggest mistake of Arnie’s life and blunder when he marries her, she just doesn’t understand him.” folding her arms over her chest in her disapproval.
Manav signed: “Well either way we can’t do anything about it now and only hope for the best.... even I don’t see how.” saying the last part merely as whisper and shook his head.
Their conversation halted as the Sashi and Garima joined and they faked a smile at them then it was time for the ring exchange, so all gathered around the stage. Arnav and Lavanya exchanged rings happily with lovely blushes and soft smiles as the guests clapped and photos were clicked. The guests then one by one started congratulating the couple as they smilingly thanked them.
Arnav leaned towards Lavanya carefully as few guests walk down the stage and whispered in her ears only for her to hear: “You look so beautiful in this dress...”
Lavanya blushed prettily: “Thank you.” tucking a lock of hair behind her ear.
He smiled at her saying: “I’m so happy that finally after so many efforts we’re engaged...so glad that we don’t have to hide our relationship anymore. By the way, will you go on a long drive with me tonight after the party is over..? I’ve something important to discuss with you...” presses his lips.
She frowned: “About what..?” curiously looked at him then smiled at the guests who came to wish and posed for a photo.
After the guests got down the stage he replied her: “I’ll tell you then... just tell your family that I’ll drop you home after the drive.” and she agreed to his request and he gave her a smile.
After a little while Arnav and Lavanya got down the stage and went around chatting with the guests of their own and introducing each other in their circle of people. Both their parents were talking and they joined them smilingly in the conversation.
Sashi asked: “So are you like returning to India and settle here in Delhi?” to Arnav’s parents.
Manav frowned tad a bit replied: “We’re not settling in India...who said we’re?”
Garima said: “Lavanya was saying after marriage she and Arnav are settling in family mansion of yours in Delhi, so we thought maybe you’re all shifting back to India to settle here permanently.”
All eyes turned to look at Lavanya then at Arnav while he was sort of glaring at her trying to suppress his anger, said trying to be polite: “No aunty, I’ve no plans of settling in Delhi... I don’t know from where Lavanya got the idea that we might settle here when I had clearly told her that my life is in England.” and Lavanya at him trying say something in protest but he didn’t let her rather, “Uncle if you don’t mind can I drop Lavanya home after the party is over...actually I wanna take her on a drive and I’ve some important things to discuss with her, so..?”
Sashi: “Yeah sure, but drop her quick please...” glancing between the two of them.
Arnav: “Yeah don’t worry I’ll...I just have some things to discuss with her, which I think we need to do sooner than later.”
There was awkward silence of few moments and soon the topic was changed as they went back to chatting with guests and all. Though the party was going on full swing and everyone enjoying Arnav’s mood has dropped quite a few notches thanks to the earlier conversation, so now there was this tension building between Arnav and Lavanya. The gang of their friends were happy that Arnav-Lavanya getting engaged, well except for Arnav’s best friend, Ranveer who clearly disapproved Lavanya but didn’t say anything for sake of his best friend didn’t even bother to mingle much with Lavanya or her family and friends or for the matter with most of the guests as to not being in mood of much socializing. Even Sashi Gupta who seemed outward happy for his daughter getting engaged, wasn’t really happy about her marrying Arnav...it wasn’t that he had anything against Arnav but he felt he didn’t exactly fill his list of qualities he would want for his daughter’s husband. For Sashi Arnav had too much of British culture in him then Indian which made him not a too much as potential husband material but for his daughter he simply went with the flow. Arnav’s parents weren’t also very fond of Lavanya but it was only for Arnav that they didn’t voice their opinions and just acted to be happy which they surely weren’t.
The party soon ended around midnight and after the last guest was bid adieu, the families’ said goodnight to each other then made way to their respective cars to go home. Arnav got in his car with Lavanya and pulled out of the parking then soon was on out of hotel premises and on main road driving at modest speed. The weather outside was pleasant with little clouds seeming like it would rain and for once there wasn’t much traffic on Delhi roads at night and Lavanya switched the radio on humming along with some song smiling happily.
She turned to Arnav and said excited: “I can’t believe, we’re engaged finally, Arnav...I’m so happy!” and she noted how he was gripping the steering wheel tightly that his knuckles turned white which made her concerned, “Arnav, what happened?”
Arnav tries not to lash out on her: “Why did you say to your family that after marriage we’re settling here in Delhi... didn’t I tell you this over and over again that setting in India is just not possible for me... then why did you?” says gritting his teeth.
Lavanya simply replies: “Because we’re settling here in India only...I told you I’m not leaving my life here and moving to England.” crossing her arms over her chest firmly.
He glanced at her on the passenger side then looked back at the road say: “Oh, so you can’t leave your life here but it’s okay for me leave my life behind in England and settle here in Delhi...how is that fair, Lavanya?” questioning her back.
She huffed stubbornly: “But why can’t we..? You’re living here and you’re rich enough that relocating is no big deal for you....I mean like you’ve two places already in Delhi. And anyways you love India that’s why you came here in the first place, so what’s the problem in settling here?”
Arnav signed exasperatedly: “Why can’t you understand a simple fact Lavanya, it is not possible for me to settle in India... it is so different from here then where I’m born and brought up. Coming to see India and settling here are two different things and I don’t think I can settle here.”
Lavanya huffed: “How is it so different and anyways even if you’re born and brought up there, ultimately you’re Indian, nah...”
He glanced at her for a moment before looking back at the road and says: “It’s very different and I’m not even namesake Indian...I’ve been born and brought up in England that is where my home is. And Lavanya you always knew that I was returning to England back...I always mentioned it, so if you didn’t want to leave the county then why getting into such serious affair with me?” trying so hard not to sound harsh.
She replied: “Well I thought you can always change your mind... now enough arguing about this, we’re settling here in Delhi anyways in the end so what’s the point fighting over it...so let’s drop this discussion and talk about our engagement.” and went to back happy mode, totally disregarding his opinions till now.
He got frustrated with her attitude: “No we’re not dropping this and we’re defiantly not settling in India whatsoever get this straight, Lavanya... this one thing is non-negotiable for Me.” clearly not going to back off over this topic.
Lavanya was getting irritated: “And why that is... What is the problem in settling down in Delhi?” she isn’t use to refusing her.
Arnav: “Because it’s not possible...” then he took a deep breath and ran one hand through his hair and then changing the gear as he spoke signing, “I think we should’ve talked about this earlier, I should’ve discussed with you before like Veer had told me to...” mumbling more to himself.
She frowned: “About what?”
He started speaking: “There is a serious reason as to why I can’t settle in India...in fact after our marriage you can’t be here too. Lavanya, I didn’t come India here for just like ‘exploring India’ all think... there is more, I’m came here beca--” but was unable to finish as the jolted harshly.
Arnav looked at the rare-view mirror to see two black cars with tinted glass after them and one of it deliberately crashed to his car following after them. He cursed seeing the cars: “Shit!” and picked up speed while Lavanya looked scared.
She clutched her seatbelt and looked at him asked stammering: “Wh- Why a- are they fo- following us? OH MY GOD! Are they trying to k- kill us?” totally horrified as their car was again hit by one of the cars following them.
He replied: “Okay don’t panic and right now I can’t say anything now, first we need to lose them...just hold on tight for now, I’ll explain you later.” thinking ways of getting out of this situation as he concentrated on speeding up and zapping trying to lose the cars chasing them.
Arnav kept speed driving taking turns from one road to another trying to lose the cars after them but damn they’re good putting up a chase. Also at this point he isn’t even himself aware where he was driving but the roads are isolated wasn’t very helping right now. Lavanya was totally terrified with the whole scenario which clearly seemed life threatening and she didn’t even understand why they were chased like this also Arnav not telling her everything.
She glanced at Arnav who was driving with one hand and put on his Bluetooth and making a call, spoke urgently: “Veer, I’m being chased and I don’t know where am I driving... just track my GPS and get here ASAP!” and ended the call and turned full attention on driving.
They were now at outskirts of Delhi on an area which seemed to be near the woods and very isolated with no one around. Lavanya clutched her seat tightly as Arnav took a sharp turn cursing under his breath and their car was again hit forcefully as he somehow regained the balance. Arnav was realizing the tight situation he was in and he knew that he had to absolutely get Lavanya safe somehow, these people were after him.
So he glances at Lavanya then back on road ahead and said: “Okay Lavanya I want you to do something for me...” as he thought of the best plan he could come up with right now.
Lavanya: “Yeah, what?” terrified out her wits responded as best her senses allowed her.
He carefully told her: “I want you to jump out of the car...” as he glanced at her and she shook her head terrified by the idea, but he continued not letting her say, “Listen to me carefully, you’ve to jump out of the car... little ahead I can see soft grass at both side of the roads and I’m going to slow down for you to jump out. Take your purse from the dashboard...your phone is in it, right?”
She simply nodded: “Yes...” and picked up the purse in her hand as he motioned her to take it and clutched it tightly.
He then instructed her: “Okay, now jump out of the car and call my Dad...he’ll pass on the information to pick you up to the team who are coming to help.” then he turned to her looking in her eyes asked, “Did you understand what I’m saying, Lavanya?”
And Lavanya nodded immediately with tears pouring out of her eyes: “I- I’m sc- scared...” whimpers and bit her lip to contain her sobs.
Arnav tried to reassure her: “You’ll be fine, I won’t let anything happen to you... once I get you out of the car as safely as I could handle them better by not having to worry about you. Just do as I say, okay and you’ll be fine... just jump and then call for help to my Dad.” then he flickered the button opening the car door locks with a click and says looking ahead, “Okay now when I say jump, jump out.”
Lavanya’s heart was on her mouth as she held the door handle ready to jump and had the purse clutched tightly in her hands. Just as Arnav slowed down more to her side of the road and shouted a ‘JUMP!’ she opened the door jumping out of the moving car, rolling and landing on the patch of soft grass on the roadside. Arnav’s car immediately picked up speed and other two cars zooming after it, hot on tail. She wasn’t hurt except minor scratches on her palm and felt too disoriented but somehow managed to collection herself and looked for her purse, pulling her phone out quickly as her eyes trained on the cars.
As she was dialling the number, before her eyes not more then 20-30 feet away out of nowhere a big truck came and hit Arnav’s car who tried to move out by trying to go sideways but too late. The truck hit Arnav’s car which went off the road and rolled few times before stopping upside down on the right side of the road against a tree. While the other two cars that were following them were also hit by the truck getting totally crushed and the truck too lost balance went hitting a tree.
All this seemed like happening in slow-motion in front of Lavanya’s eyes like they happen in movies and her mind went blank rendering her motionless in silence. Then few moments later one of the cars that was following blew off with a loud ‘Boom’ going into flames making her snap out of her blank state as she screamed: “ARNAVVV!!!”
Lavanya jolted out of her memory lane sweating and looked around almost panicked with her heart racing so fast and the voices of the night still ringing in her ears, reliving that terrifying night again: “That night of engagement was suppose to be most happiest night of my life but it turned the scariest night of my life which had left scars behind...if only that accident hadn’t happened, if only I had waited for him and not agreed to marry Samar like dad said... Maybe then today I would’ve been in Khushi’s place, happily married to Arnav... Or maybe I should’ve tried to find him after divorce rather than simply waiting here... God, I’m such a mess!” as tried not to break down from all the turmoil going inside her and taking deep breaths trying to calm down as her thoughts wondered on the hazy details of post-accident that night, wiped her face slowly.
Going back to that night after she had burst out screaming Arnav’s name terrified and crying and wanting to rush to him but somehow her body was frozen on the spot she was. Within a moment or two there were police jeeps, ambulance and fire brigade there and it went chaos all around with activities. A pre-medic assistant had picked her up and pushed her limp body in an ambulance but her eyes were glued to Arnav’s car as she watching him. He was taken out from the car by two firemen who had to cut the door to take him out, the other two cars had blew up; hence no survivor and the truck driver was also taken in one ambulance. The later events were jumbled in Lavanya’s mind like Arnav put in stretcher and taken by pre-medic and put in an ambulance in which Arnav’s Dad and his some friend got in then taken to hospital. She was also taken to hospital but she couldn’t remember what she did on the whole ride then reaching hospital and her family was there crying over her, trying to ask her what happened and Arnav’s family waiting outside O.T. tensed waiting for his news while their friends too were there relieved for Lavanya being safe but tensed for Arnav’s well-being.
Later after long operation the doctor had came out of the O.T. announcing that Arnav had loads of injuries from left leg fracture to his right arm and shoulder bone fracture, head injuries and few broken ribs along with the scratches and bruises. Though he was out of danger at the moment when made all signs in relieve but the next words of the doctor made all cry as he told that Arnav had slipped into coma and no one knows when he’ll wake up. That night for Lavanya had been best which turned to the worst in every way possible, Arnav’s parents were broken especially his Mom seeing her son batted and injured body lying on hospital bed with machines attached.
Lavanya was other hand excepted minor injuries was very traumatized and it took a whole week for her to get her bearings to start working back to normal from getting out of the dazed-numb state. It had been a very difficult phase of her life, she thought shaking her head trying to pull herself together and chase these thoughts away. She looked at the time to see its 08:30 PM already which means she was daydreaming since last one and half hour, stared to gather her things calling a night to work for now.
She quickly wrapped up her things and gathered her belongs, got up from her chair taking her bag and files she needs to take home then turned her cabin lights off and walked out, locking her cabin. The executive floor seemed empty as most cabins on this floor were locked; clearly others have left already as she walked down the empty corridor towards the elevators but paused on her way as she saw Khushi’s cabin light on and door open. With silent steps she turned Khushi’s cabin and spied to see what was going on being careful to not get seen by anyone inside and outside the cabin.
Inside Khushi’s cabin, she was in white blouse and navy blue short skirt with hair in long French braid and high white peep-toe heels which she came to office wearing today.
She was fluttering around her desk gathering her belongs while happily humming an English pop-song softly in her melodic cute accented voice which was clearly heard in the silence around, swirling her hips dancing: “Oh, I just wanna take you anywhere that you'd like
We could go out any day, any night
Baby I'll take you there, take you there
Baby I'll take you there, yeah
Oh, tell me, tell me, tell me, how to turn your love on
You can get, get anything that you want
Baby just shout it out, shout it out
Baby just shout it out, yeah
And if you,
You want me too
Let's make a move”
Out of nowhere a pair of strong arms wrapped around her waist twirling her around and a husky warm voice sang to her with that sexy British accent making it even more charming with smile on lip: “Yeah, so tell me girl if every time we
To-o-uch
You get this kind of ru-u-ush
Baby, say yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
If you don't wanna take it slow
And you just wanna take me home
Baby, say yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
And let me kiss you...”
Arnav sang the last line rather seductively before he bend down pressing his lips on Khushi’s soft lips, making her spoon and kiss him back with equal passion. They both kissed each other heatedly and he pushed her on the desk then held her hips making her sit on it. Without breaking the kiss stood between her legs pulling her so close to himself that even air can’t get in-between them. Arnav’s one arm around her waist while other slipped under her skirt caressing her soft peach-cream skin while her hands were tugging at his hair and back of her neck.
Out of breath they pulled back from the kiss and Khushi eyes takes in the sexy picture her stud of husband made in ruffled raven hair like he just rolled out of bed, his white button-shirt’s sleeves rolled up till elbow slowing of his strong slightly tan muscular arms, his black tie loose around his neck and with only black waist-coat and black trousers he looked sex walking on legs to her giving her bedroom looks with those silver smoldering eyes and lips red and swollen.
He too was savoring her mesmerizing flushed feathers and smirked seeing her checking him out making her blush like ripe strawberries. Khushi flirtatiously says: “Hey Superman...” and tugs him closer by his tie.
Arnav smirked: “Hello there my Lois Lane...” greeting here back playfully making her giggle and her bend down peppering her face with kisses.
She whispered: “I love you, my stud of hubby...” kissing his stubble chin and bumped her nose with his cutely.
He smiled at her cute antics and replied her: “I love you too, my sexy wifey.” with a fond smile as they went from playful kisses to making out heatedly.
Lavanya felt she had seen more than enough she could handle seeing Arnav in another woman’s arms, so up and close. She silently retreated and got into the elevators as the scene she witnessed in Khushi’s cabin was burned in her mind and kept replaying itself. She got out of the elevators and went to parking, getting in her car as her thoughts filled with the playful and intimately closeness of Arnav with Khushi which she witnessed and she never shared with Arnav. She was always very self-conscious of the surroundings to let Arnav that close or intimate with her had always annoyed him. She saw Arnav and Khushi walking out of the building in each others’ arms sharing laughs and playful kisses as they got in their car and pulled out of the office premises without noticing her. Lavanya sat in her few moments processing her scattered thoughts; she noted that Khushi is very open about displaying her love and affection on Arnav in public without any care of surrounding... something she could never do and he always wanted from her. So with thoughts along the lines of Arnav-Khushi and the relation she had with Arnav lingered in her mind as she drove out of office premises and towards her home having a comparison and her thoughts all over the place.
What actually Lavanya never understood as to why Arnav always cared less about people around while she was very conscious, even to hold his hand in public. The real thing she never understood was Arnav’s upbringing, he was born and brought up in England and he didn’t have much of Indian culture in him that he has of British. So open display of affection didn’t bother him and Lavanya’s denying always hurt him, they never understood the difference between their upbringings...never found a common ground. But with Khushi things are different for Arnav because she understands him and is more attuned to him, also she has a very similar upbringing like him which naturally makes her shower her all love and attention on him openly anyways.
PRECAP: Some more past flashback but from a very new Point of view, any guesses who it can be?
.............
NOTE: The song is ‘Kiss You’ by One Direction...I’m a crazy 1D fan; they’re like so cute I swear LOL. Anyone here a 1D fan-girl and who is your favorite..? Also if anyone doesn’t like 1D please don’t make hate comments because I won’t like that and please no bashing my Zaynie, I know many are pissed off when he left the band but I don’t think that’s wrong. I mean everyone at one point moves on to do something more bigger then they’re already doing and Zayn’s going solo was his big move but for me he’ll always be part of One Direction always, that’s how I still think of him.
Now moving on from my 1D blabbering, I seriously don’t get how this story gets so many requests for updates and all...it’s so I don’t. Anyways here is the update, so do give your feedbacks about it... how were the flashbacks and which one you like the most, a glimpse of Arnav-Khushi courtship period or Arnav-Lavanya’s engagement? Just to let you know first I wasn’t planning to give two flashbacks in this chap... I wasn’t suppose to give the Arnav-Khushi flashback in here but I know I’ll get mobbed by readers for giving too much Arnav-Lavanya and then I thought its nice way to put the contrast between both the relationship.
ONE WEEK LATER
G.K. CONSTRUCTIONS – 01:17 PM
It has been a very busy day in G.K. Constructions office since the morning but as the afternoon rolled up things started to get considerably slow and steady. Right now Arnav and Khushi finished up briefing the project team working on the collaboration project G.K. Constructions is doing with A.K.R. and the team consists of Lavanya, Anjali, Aman, Akash, Payal, Tuli, Samar, Yuvraj, Mayuri and NK from G.K. while from A.K.R were Arnav, Khushi, Neev, Amaya, Abir, Sana and Rajveer and Ishaani is on maternity leave but still keeping updates and helping from home if needed.
Everyone was gathering their belongings and casually chatting along ready to take lunch break. Samar along with Ranveer was teasing Arnav about his famous drunken performance on holi much to his annoyance. He exclaimed annoyed: “Can’t you just get over it already!” huffing out loud.
Samar laughed claiming: “I’m not letting you get over it; it’s so fun rubbing it on your face...”
Abir amusedly asked: “But seriously Arnie, did you really do the filmy ‘Drunken Suicide’... I mean like since when do you watch cliché Bollywood movies?!”
Sana pouted sulking: “I missed all the fun and that is so not fair!” throwing her hands in air showing her displeasure of missing all the fun.
Neev comments: “It wasn’t that great, Sana trust me handling drunken tantrums is like handling bunch of sugar rush toddlers.” looking at Sana with serious eyes.
Amaya says solemnly: “I totally empathize with you Arnie...” giving him an understanding look and turns to the others saying, “Yeah guys get over it!” as she was too been teased after holi.
Ranveer jovially says: “Anyways since we’re already making Arnie embarrass, why not we talk more of Arnie’s embarrassing stories?” grinning ear to ear.
Arnav groaned and Samar jumped excitedly: “Oh, more Arnav’s embarrassing stories!”
Ranveer: “I can remember one, so to speak... remember guys that prank we pulled on Arnie about Katya died?”
Neev and Abir exclaimed together: “WHAT?!”
Khushi frowned: “Veer, that wasn’t even funny...” remembering the incident he was referring to.
Till now the ones who were listening had felt their curiosity pick up, so being the always curious Mayuri asked: “Which incident are you guys talking about?”
Ranveer jumps answering: “I’ll tell you, it was few years ago and it were like 03-04 months since Arnie and Katya were dating. So one evening at my house...”
----FLASHBACK----
Khushi sat around with her group of friends, her best friend - Ishaani, Ranveer - Ishaani’s boyfriend and one of their other friends, Josh. Her boyfriend, Arnav, was supposed to be there but he was at home sick with the flu. They were in Ranveer's living room, sitting around on the floor and goofing off. They decided to do a throwback to middle school and play a game of truth or dare.
It was Josh's turn to ask someone and he picked Ishaani: "Ishaani, I dare you to call Arnav and tell him that Khushi died."
Khushi cracked a smile, knowing how he would react but shook her head saying: "No, you can't do that...he'll kill you, all of you and maybe even me.”
Ranveer said: "Probably, but you have to do it, Isha and you are a good actress... you can pull it off." still wanting to pull this prank on Arnav.
Isha picked up her phone: "Okay, fine I'll do it." but Khushi smacked it out of her hand, not wanting her boyfriend to get hurt.
Then Josh came over and sat on Khushi, pinning her to the floor after a brief struggle which he of course won. He put his hand over her mouth, successfully silencing her and she tried to lick it, but he just ignored her. Ishaani dialled Arnav's number and put him on speaker, shushing the rest of them, well the rest of them that weren't being silenced.
Arnav’s groggy-sleepy voice erupted from the phone: "Hullo?" coughing and Khushi could picture him lying in his bed, sleepily rubbing his eyes.
Ishaani started fake crying and saying: "Arnav, I have to tell you something... It's about Katya..."
He asked: "What's wrong? What's wrong with Mahi? Is she okay?" immediately snapping out of his sleepiness.
She faked hiccuping in-between her sobs replies: "Ka-- Katya... She‐- she's dead."
Arnav forced laughed saying groggily: "No! You're kidding... you have to be effing joking." totally not believing what Isha was telling him.
But Ishaani conveniently webbed a fake story of Khushi’s supposed suicide and told him: "No, she committed suicide... She didn't show up at Veer's tonight, so I went over there... I found her on her bathroom floor with bloody cuts on her wrists, a toilet full of puke and an open bottle of pills..." as she sobbed in-between which almost made even Khushi believe her story.
He whispered like not wanting to believe yet couldn’t deny: "No... Not Khushi... Not my Mahi... Why would she do that? If this is a joke, I'm going to kill you." threateningly in the end as to end the prank.
She sobbed: "I wish it was a joke but it's not a joke... She's really dead..."
He exclaimed now believing her: "Oh My Gosh!" as he continued on to swear, in a heavy, choked voice. Khushi could picture his facial expression and it hurt her, so she started squirming again and Josh bounced on her, so she was forced to stop, focusing on breathing and not actually dying.
Isha asked in a quiet voice: "Are you crying?" sniffing and hiccuping a little.
Arnav replied: "Maybe... Are you?" in low steady voice trying to cover his emotions. He is always like this, not showing his emotions easily to anyone but Khushi could always read them and he opened up to her willingly.
She confessed: "So much..." with all honesty she could.
Then a few moments of silence was there after which he said: "I'm coming over there... Where are you? I'm in the car now..." slight commotion could be heard from other side of him moving around.
She tried saying: "But you're sick, don't you still have a high fever?"
He instantly replied from the other side: "It doesn't matter, I'm freaking out... I love her so much..." almost agitated.
Not having any option Isha told him: "We're at Ranveer's place... but don't come over here." trying to talk him out from coming.
Arnav simply said: "Too late, I'll be there in two minutes..." and simply cut the line, clearly on his way to Ranveer’s house.
Isha after hanging up the call stared at the phone a moment or two then loudly shrieked: "What do we do? He's coming over!" getting into panic mode, she might have pulled the joke which in the beginning seemed fun but now clearly scared of Arnav’s wrath which they would receive when he gets to know that he had been played.
Ranveer said: "Let's have Katya hide then surprise him and that why he would get distracted with her then to get angry on us for the prank." coming up with an escape plan to get away from Arnav’s anger, as if that would happen, Khushi thought.
Josh finally got off of Khushi, letting her breathe again and she forced in a huge breath then burst out at them: "Did you hear his voice? He's so sad... He's going to kill you, Veer!"
He frowned asking: "Why me?"
Khushi replied him the obvious: "Because you're his best friend and he can't hit Isha, who also happens to be your girlfriend..."
Suddenly there was a knock at the door and she was shoved into the closet but left the door open a crack, so she could see. Ranveer opened the door and Arnav walked in looking like a mess but still cute to her. On top of being sick, he had obviously cried a little in the car as he looked around. Then collapsed on the floor dejectedly, his head in his hands whispered: "She's not here... She really is dead, I can't believe it..." his shoulders slumped and shaking slightly from his silent sobs.
Josh said soberly: "I'm sorry buddy..."
Ranveer looked at the closet and gestured with his eyes for her to come out. Khushi opened the door quietly, tip toed up to him and wrapped him up in a hug from behind making him whipped around and his jaw dropped, exclaiming: "Mahiya! You're okay! You're not dead! Oh! Thank god..." muttering with utter relief and peppering her face with kisses.
He stood up and attacked her with a hug, pressing her body into his as buried his face in her neck, kissing it tenderly: "I love you... I love you so much, baby..."
Khushi replied him in equally adoring tone: "I love you too, Arnav."
He slowly let her go, looking at her and smiling but then his grin started fading as realization dawn upon him: "Then it was a joke all along and even you played along them Isha... Oh now, somebody is about to die!" whirled on Ranveer, delivering a swift punch to the nose.
Ranveer joked after receiving the weak punch: "That punch was weak, dude. I expected better, but sorry... It was pretty funny..." laughing a little.
Arnav replied making a face: "I'm sick, I can't help it that I feel like crap. Is this one better?" then he whipped around and punched Veer in the gut.
Ranveer huffed out: "Ooof!" doubling over, holding his stomach and then says, “That hurts!” as after a moment pain goes away.
And Josh commented off-handed looking at Ranveer with sympathy: "Much..." and put his hand up in surrendering but nonetheless receiving a hit in his head from Arnav.
Ranveer and Arnav did a bro hug thing after which he pulled Khushi to the couch as she easily sat down and he laid down wrapping his arms around her waist and laying his head in her lap. She ran her hands through his soft hair.
Khushi asked: "How do you feel?" and pressed a hand to his forehead.
Arnav replied weakly: "Not great."
Ishaani asked: "How high is your fever?"
Arnav: "103, last time I checked."
Ranveer said: "Here, man, I'll get you a blanket..." retrieving a blanket from the other room and threw it at Khushi’s face which she spread it across Arnav's body.
He faced her stomach, burying his face in her, groaning softly as he grumbled: "I hate all of you, except you, Mahi... for making me get out of bed today..." and she rubbed his back in smoothing manner.
Khushi told him: "I tried to stop them, but Josh was sitting on me..." as ran her fingers though his wavy hair.
Josh simply said: "Goodnight, Arnie..." seeing his friend is all sleepy and eyes doping shut.
Arnav groaned in response and Khushi rhythmically rubbed circles on his back, running her fingers through his hair. She felt him shaking even though he was really warm and his eyes fluttered closed, as he quickly fell asleep... He really needed the rest, Khushi thought. The rest of them hung out, ordered pizza and watched movies for hours but Arnav slept through the whole thing.
My poor baby, Khushi thought as she looked at him love filled eyes. Their friends found the sight of them very cute as Ishaani clicked a photo of them in phone immediately capturing the cute moment. Even later when Khushi left, untangling Arnav’s body from hers, he didn't wake up and so she left him sleeping on Ranveer's couch, after kissing his forehead lovingly. Later Arnav called Khushi to pick him up the next morning because he didn't feel like driving.
----FLASHBACK ENDS----
Ranveer finish of sharing the tale: “So like that we pulled a prank on Arnie and we had falling for it... you see it’s really hard to pull successful pranks on him.” as he concludes his story and gets all kind of varying from the listeners.
One hand there were the usual bunch of jealous people and then there were others smiling at the cute story. Mayuri and Amaya cooed dreamily together: “Awwwiiieee, how cute is that...”
Samar laughed out loud: “You seriously fell for that Arnav... I mean how you can believe Khushi suicide story... why would she do that?” exclaimed and Yuvraj just smiled softly realizing yet again how much Arnav is love with Khushi.
Abir frowned: “It’s not cute and defiantly not funny...” then pointedly looked at Ranveer saying, “You shouldn’t have pulled a prank on Arnie like that. He was sick like having a 103 fever and you guys made him drive, what if he had an accident..?” clearly not finding anything funny or cute.
Neev too nodded in agreement: “Yeah, he could’ve gotten seriously injured if something like that had happened... And why the heck Josh was bouncing on Katya, what if she had gotten hurt?! Once we get back to England, I’m personally dealing with Josh so that he thinks 10 times before he handles Katya like that again.” totally getting into over-protective big brother mode.
Ranveer: “Oops, looks like I shouldn’t have told this in front of the big brothers...” clearly sensing that he landed himself in trouble.
Arnav had pulled Khushi in a side hug and kissing the top of her head, reassuring himself that she is safe besides him. He still shivers remembering the panic he had felt that evening with the thought that he might have lost her. The he looked up to see his brother-in-laws glaring at his best friend and said: “And Veer didn’t you tell them the after story of how I made you pay back for pulling that prank on me..?” raising an eyebrow at his friend.
Yuvraj comments: “Yeah as far as we know Arnav, he won’t let anyone get away so easily...he defiantly did a comeback, didn’t he?” looking at Ranveer for answer.
Khushi started giggling at that and answered: “Oh, he most definitely did and they didn’t even know what hit them.” as all looked at her expectantly and she explained, “After Arnav got well and all thought that he might have forgotten about the prank and silently listened to their teasing for some time, he planned his own pay back. First, he changed Josh’s shampoo with some rainbow neon color dye and when his hair was all rainbows he told him that he can’t dye it or something because than it will do some permanent damage to his hair and not even shave his hair then his hair will grow rainbow color. So poor Josh had to roam around a month with rainbow neon color hair...” and everyone laughed at that and she further went telling, “Then there was Veer and Isha on whom he took a joint revenge. Arnav had messed with Veer’s event reminders and changed Isha’s birthday reminder and without reminder Veer forgot about her birthday and then tricked into sending Veer at his some ex’s party while Isha kept waiting. Later Isha blasted on Veer for forgetting her birthday and fumed more that he was at his some ex’s party... man, it took Veer a month to make her talk to him again.” then laughing more remembering the time.
Ranveer pouted: “I didn’t see that coming, Arnie had totally caught me off-guard... man it was so had to pacify Isha... she almost broke up with me and that’s it not even funny!” crossing his arms over his chest.
Then Arnav spoke: “And you would be caught off-guard yet again if you don’t stop teasing me over the Holi thing, Veer. Since Isha is pregnant now, it’s ten times easier to instigate her and a lot harder to pacify her... do you want me to do that?!” looking at her quzzingly.
Ranveer gasped in horror: “You won’t do that!”
Arnav simply said: “Humor me...” with a de-pan look and Veer had held his hands up in surrender making all laugh especially Samar which made Arnav eyes go on him and says, “And what are you laughing at so much Sammy boy... do you want me to tell everyone about your ‘Dhanno’ incident..?”
Now Samar paled almost screamed: “You won't!” and Arnav gave an evilly smirked making Samar gulp in fear.
Akash looked between the two and asked: “What are you talking about Arnav?” wanting to know what’s up about his little brother.
Before Arnav can say anything, Samar jumped in-between: “NOTHING! It’s nothing Bhai... totally nothing.” while looking at Arnav pleadingly.
Arnav shrugged replying Akash: “Not cheeky anymore, are we now..?” raising an eyebrow at Samar who immediately shook his head and then he turned to Akash said, “Nothing important...” making Samar sign in relief but added, “...only till Samar stops with the teasing.” to which Samar nodded hurriedly as to say no more teasing from him anymore.
So with that the topic was changed quickly by Samar and everyone too went with the flow as they wrapped their belongings. Then everyone started exiting the conference room chatting amongst each other and making way to canteen for lunch seeing it is lunch time already. Among all these Lavanya had been very silent with other things running on her mind but clearly wanting to stay silent over those didn’t say anything.
...............................
07:00 PM
It was evening now and employees had started leaving for the day those who had finished their work and others were trying to wrap up as soon as possible. Lavanya was working on a project report in her cabin but clearly not having full attention on it, her mind was dwelling over the story she heard about Arnav-Khushi from Ranveer today. Did Arnav really care for Khushi so much? Did he really loved her now and moved on? But how can he wasn’t she his first love and didn’t he say that you never forget your first love easily...then how can he be over her?
Lavanya felt her thoughts too jumbled up and shut the file in her hands; placing it on the table she rubbed her face tiredly wondering why things have to be so complicated. She rested her head back and closed her eyes for few moments then opening them her eyes landed on the photo kept on her desk. It was photo of her and Arnav from their engagement day, exchanging rings with smile on their faces, how happy they were that day... why can’t they be like this now? And then the memories of the engagement day flooded in her mind, a day that truly changed her life drastically...more than she had expected or ever wanted.
----FLASHBACK STARTS----
06 YEARS, 05 MONTHS AGO
ITC MAURYA, DELHI – 28/JULY/2010
The banquet hall of ITC Maurya was beautifully decorated with flowers, silk drapes and lights following the theme of white and gold. The hall was full of guests and why not after all it was engagement of Sashi Gupta’s daughter, Lavanya Gupta with one and only son of Business tycoon Manav Raizada, Arnav Raizada. The Guptas’ and the Raizada families were meeting and greeting their guests while Lavanya in maroon-golden dress sat on the stage along with Arnav in black Armani suit with silk black button down shirt and red silk tie with all smiles and joy of getting engaged clearly visible on their glowing faces.
Ranveer smiled at few guests and made way to Arpita and Manav who were greeting a few guests whom he smiled as he stood beside the elder couple who gestured the guests inside then turn to him. Arpita asks curiously: “Veer, what are you doing here and why aren’t you besides Arnie?”
Ranveer made a face replying: “It’s too much to see my best friend destroying his life and I can’t do anything about it...”
Manav confused: “What! What do you mean by destroying his life?”
He rolled his eyes explaining: “What else can I say uncle, Arnie is ruining his life... this girl Lavanya is just so wrong for him in every possible way. You know she wants to settle in India and you that’s not possible for Arnie... I can clearly see that marrying that woman is going to be the biggest disaster of his life and I can’t do anything to stop him!” almost pulling his own hair out of frustration.
Arpita made a face agreeing: “So right Veer, I totally get what you’re saying... this girl is possibly the biggest mistake of Arnie’s life and blunder when he marries her, she just doesn’t understand him.” folding her arms over her chest in her disapproval.
Manav signed: “Well either way we can’t do anything about it now and only hope for the best.... even I don’t see how.” saying the last part merely as whisper and shook his head.
Their conversation halted as the Sashi and Garima joined and they faked a smile at them then it was time for the ring exchange, so all gathered around the stage. Arnav and Lavanya exchanged rings happily with lovely blushes and soft smiles as the guests clapped and photos were clicked. The guests then one by one started congratulating the couple as they smilingly thanked them.
Arnav leaned towards Lavanya carefully as few guests walk down the stage and whispered in her ears only for her to hear: “You look so beautiful in this dress...”
Lavanya blushed prettily: “Thank you.” tucking a lock of hair behind her ear.
He smiled at her saying: “I’m so happy that finally after so many efforts we’re engaged...so glad that we don’t have to hide our relationship anymore. By the way, will you go on a long drive with me tonight after the party is over..? I’ve something important to discuss with you...” presses his lips.
She frowned: “About what..?” curiously looked at him then smiled at the guests who came to wish and posed for a photo.
After the guests got down the stage he replied her: “I’ll tell you then... just tell your family that I’ll drop you home after the drive.” and she agreed to his request and he gave her a smile.
After a little while Arnav and Lavanya got down the stage and went around chatting with the guests of their own and introducing each other in their circle of people. Both their parents were talking and they joined them smilingly in the conversation.
Sashi asked: “So are you like returning to India and settle here in Delhi?” to Arnav’s parents.
Manav frowned tad a bit replied: “We’re not settling in India...who said we’re?”
Garima said: “Lavanya was saying after marriage she and Arnav are settling in family mansion of yours in Delhi, so we thought maybe you’re all shifting back to India to settle here permanently.”
All eyes turned to look at Lavanya then at Arnav while he was sort of glaring at her trying to suppress his anger, said trying to be polite: “No aunty, I’ve no plans of settling in Delhi... I don’t know from where Lavanya got the idea that we might settle here when I had clearly told her that my life is in England.” and Lavanya at him trying say something in protest but he didn’t let her rather, “Uncle if you don’t mind can I drop Lavanya home after the party is over...actually I wanna take her on a drive and I’ve some important things to discuss with her, so..?”
Sashi: “Yeah sure, but drop her quick please...” glancing between the two of them.
Arnav: “Yeah don’t worry I’ll...I just have some things to discuss with her, which I think we need to do sooner than later.”
There was awkward silence of few moments and soon the topic was changed as they went back to chatting with guests and all. Though the party was going on full swing and everyone enjoying Arnav’s mood has dropped quite a few notches thanks to the earlier conversation, so now there was this tension building between Arnav and Lavanya. The gang of their friends were happy that Arnav-Lavanya getting engaged, well except for Arnav’s best friend, Ranveer who clearly disapproved Lavanya but didn’t say anything for sake of his best friend didn’t even bother to mingle much with Lavanya or her family and friends or for the matter with most of the guests as to not being in mood of much socializing. Even Sashi Gupta who seemed outward happy for his daughter getting engaged, wasn’t really happy about her marrying Arnav...it wasn’t that he had anything against Arnav but he felt he didn’t exactly fill his list of qualities he would want for his daughter’s husband. For Sashi Arnav had too much of British culture in him then Indian which made him not a too much as potential husband material but for his daughter he simply went with the flow. Arnav’s parents weren’t also very fond of Lavanya but it was only for Arnav that they didn’t voice their opinions and just acted to be happy which they surely weren’t.
The party soon ended around midnight and after the last guest was bid adieu, the families’ said goodnight to each other then made way to their respective cars to go home. Arnav got in his car with Lavanya and pulled out of the parking then soon was on out of hotel premises and on main road driving at modest speed. The weather outside was pleasant with little clouds seeming like it would rain and for once there wasn’t much traffic on Delhi roads at night and Lavanya switched the radio on humming along with some song smiling happily.
She turned to Arnav and said excited: “I can’t believe, we’re engaged finally, Arnav...I’m so happy!” and she noted how he was gripping the steering wheel tightly that his knuckles turned white which made her concerned, “Arnav, what happened?”
Arnav tries not to lash out on her: “Why did you say to your family that after marriage we’re settling here in Delhi... didn’t I tell you this over and over again that setting in India is just not possible for me... then why did you?” says gritting his teeth.
Lavanya simply replies: “Because we’re settling here in India only...I told you I’m not leaving my life here and moving to England.” crossing her arms over her chest firmly.
He glanced at her on the passenger side then looked back at the road say: “Oh, so you can’t leave your life here but it’s okay for me leave my life behind in England and settle here in Delhi...how is that fair, Lavanya?” questioning her back.
She huffed stubbornly: “But why can’t we..? You’re living here and you’re rich enough that relocating is no big deal for you....I mean like you’ve two places already in Delhi. And anyways you love India that’s why you came here in the first place, so what’s the problem in settling here?”
Arnav signed exasperatedly: “Why can’t you understand a simple fact Lavanya, it is not possible for me to settle in India... it is so different from here then where I’m born and brought up. Coming to see India and settling here are two different things and I don’t think I can settle here.”
Lavanya huffed: “How is it so different and anyways even if you’re born and brought up there, ultimately you’re Indian, nah...”
He glanced at her for a moment before looking back at the road and says: “It’s very different and I’m not even namesake Indian...I’ve been born and brought up in England that is where my home is. And Lavanya you always knew that I was returning to England back...I always mentioned it, so if you didn’t want to leave the county then why getting into such serious affair with me?” trying so hard not to sound harsh.
She replied: “Well I thought you can always change your mind... now enough arguing about this, we’re settling here in Delhi anyways in the end so what’s the point fighting over it...so let’s drop this discussion and talk about our engagement.” and went to back happy mode, totally disregarding his opinions till now.
He got frustrated with her attitude: “No we’re not dropping this and we’re defiantly not settling in India whatsoever get this straight, Lavanya... this one thing is non-negotiable for Me.” clearly not going to back off over this topic.
Lavanya was getting irritated: “And why that is... What is the problem in settling down in Delhi?” she isn’t use to refusing her.
Arnav: “Because it’s not possible...” then he took a deep breath and ran one hand through his hair and then changing the gear as he spoke signing, “I think we should’ve talked about this earlier, I should’ve discussed with you before like Veer had told me to...” mumbling more to himself.
She frowned: “About what?”
He started speaking: “There is a serious reason as to why I can’t settle in India...in fact after our marriage you can’t be here too. Lavanya, I didn’t come India here for just like ‘exploring India’ all think... there is more, I’m came here beca--” but was unable to finish as the jolted harshly.
Arnav looked at the rare-view mirror to see two black cars with tinted glass after them and one of it deliberately crashed to his car following after them. He cursed seeing the cars: “Shit!” and picked up speed while Lavanya looked scared.
She clutched her seatbelt and looked at him asked stammering: “Wh- Why a- are they fo- following us? OH MY GOD! Are they trying to k- kill us?” totally horrified as their car was again hit by one of the cars following them.
He replied: “Okay don’t panic and right now I can’t say anything now, first we need to lose them...just hold on tight for now, I’ll explain you later.” thinking ways of getting out of this situation as he concentrated on speeding up and zapping trying to lose the cars chasing them.
Arnav kept speed driving taking turns from one road to another trying to lose the cars after them but damn they’re good putting up a chase. Also at this point he isn’t even himself aware where he was driving but the roads are isolated wasn’t very helping right now. Lavanya was totally terrified with the whole scenario which clearly seemed life threatening and she didn’t even understand why they were chased like this also Arnav not telling her everything.
She glanced at Arnav who was driving with one hand and put on his Bluetooth and making a call, spoke urgently: “Veer, I’m being chased and I don’t know where am I driving... just track my GPS and get here ASAP!” and ended the call and turned full attention on driving.
They were now at outskirts of Delhi on an area which seemed to be near the woods and very isolated with no one around. Lavanya clutched her seat tightly as Arnav took a sharp turn cursing under his breath and their car was again hit forcefully as he somehow regained the balance. Arnav was realizing the tight situation he was in and he knew that he had to absolutely get Lavanya safe somehow, these people were after him.
So he glances at Lavanya then back on road ahead and said: “Okay Lavanya I want you to do something for me...” as he thought of the best plan he could come up with right now.
Lavanya: “Yeah, what?” terrified out her wits responded as best her senses allowed her.
He carefully told her: “I want you to jump out of the car...” as he glanced at her and she shook her head terrified by the idea, but he continued not letting her say, “Listen to me carefully, you’ve to jump out of the car... little ahead I can see soft grass at both side of the roads and I’m going to slow down for you to jump out. Take your purse from the dashboard...your phone is in it, right?”
She simply nodded: “Yes...” and picked up the purse in her hand as he motioned her to take it and clutched it tightly.
He then instructed her: “Okay, now jump out of the car and call my Dad...he’ll pass on the information to pick you up to the team who are coming to help.” then he turned to her looking in her eyes asked, “Did you understand what I’m saying, Lavanya?”
And Lavanya nodded immediately with tears pouring out of her eyes: “I- I’m sc- scared...” whimpers and bit her lip to contain her sobs.
Arnav tried to reassure her: “You’ll be fine, I won’t let anything happen to you... once I get you out of the car as safely as I could handle them better by not having to worry about you. Just do as I say, okay and you’ll be fine... just jump and then call for help to my Dad.” then he flickered the button opening the car door locks with a click and says looking ahead, “Okay now when I say jump, jump out.”
Lavanya’s heart was on her mouth as she held the door handle ready to jump and had the purse clutched tightly in her hands. Just as Arnav slowed down more to her side of the road and shouted a ‘JUMP!’ she opened the door jumping out of the moving car, rolling and landing on the patch of soft grass on the roadside. Arnav’s car immediately picked up speed and other two cars zooming after it, hot on tail. She wasn’t hurt except minor scratches on her palm and felt too disoriented but somehow managed to collection herself and looked for her purse, pulling her phone out quickly as her eyes trained on the cars.
As she was dialling the number, before her eyes not more then 20-30 feet away out of nowhere a big truck came and hit Arnav’s car who tried to move out by trying to go sideways but too late. The truck hit Arnav’s car which went off the road and rolled few times before stopping upside down on the right side of the road against a tree. While the other two cars that were following them were also hit by the truck getting totally crushed and the truck too lost balance went hitting a tree.
All this seemed like happening in slow-motion in front of Lavanya’s eyes like they happen in movies and her mind went blank rendering her motionless in silence. Then few moments later one of the cars that was following blew off with a loud ‘Boom’ going into flames making her snap out of her blank state as she screamed: “ARNAVVV!!!”
----FLASHBACK ENDS----
Lavanya jolted out of her memory lane sweating and looked around almost panicked with her heart racing so fast and the voices of the night still ringing in her ears, reliving that terrifying night again: “That night of engagement was suppose to be most happiest night of my life but it turned the scariest night of my life which had left scars behind...if only that accident hadn’t happened, if only I had waited for him and not agreed to marry Samar like dad said... Maybe then today I would’ve been in Khushi’s place, happily married to Arnav... Or maybe I should’ve tried to find him after divorce rather than simply waiting here... God, I’m such a mess!” as tried not to break down from all the turmoil going inside her and taking deep breaths trying to calm down as her thoughts wondered on the hazy details of post-accident that night, wiped her face slowly.
Going back to that night after she had burst out screaming Arnav’s name terrified and crying and wanting to rush to him but somehow her body was frozen on the spot she was. Within a moment or two there were police jeeps, ambulance and fire brigade there and it went chaos all around with activities. A pre-medic assistant had picked her up and pushed her limp body in an ambulance but her eyes were glued to Arnav’s car as she watching him. He was taken out from the car by two firemen who had to cut the door to take him out, the other two cars had blew up; hence no survivor and the truck driver was also taken in one ambulance. The later events were jumbled in Lavanya’s mind like Arnav put in stretcher and taken by pre-medic and put in an ambulance in which Arnav’s Dad and his some friend got in then taken to hospital. She was also taken to hospital but she couldn’t remember what she did on the whole ride then reaching hospital and her family was there crying over her, trying to ask her what happened and Arnav’s family waiting outside O.T. tensed waiting for his news while their friends too were there relieved for Lavanya being safe but tensed for Arnav’s well-being.
Later after long operation the doctor had came out of the O.T. announcing that Arnav had loads of injuries from left leg fracture to his right arm and shoulder bone fracture, head injuries and few broken ribs along with the scratches and bruises. Though he was out of danger at the moment when made all signs in relieve but the next words of the doctor made all cry as he told that Arnav had slipped into coma and no one knows when he’ll wake up. That night for Lavanya had been best which turned to the worst in every way possible, Arnav’s parents were broken especially his Mom seeing her son batted and injured body lying on hospital bed with machines attached.
Lavanya was other hand excepted minor injuries was very traumatized and it took a whole week for her to get her bearings to start working back to normal from getting out of the dazed-numb state. It had been a very difficult phase of her life, she thought shaking her head trying to pull herself together and chase these thoughts away. She looked at the time to see its 08:30 PM already which means she was daydreaming since last one and half hour, stared to gather her things calling a night to work for now.
She quickly wrapped up her things and gathered her belongs, got up from her chair taking her bag and files she needs to take home then turned her cabin lights off and walked out, locking her cabin. The executive floor seemed empty as most cabins on this floor were locked; clearly others have left already as she walked down the empty corridor towards the elevators but paused on her way as she saw Khushi’s cabin light on and door open. With silent steps she turned Khushi’s cabin and spied to see what was going on being careful to not get seen by anyone inside and outside the cabin.
Inside Khushi’s cabin, she was in white blouse and navy blue short skirt with hair in long French braid and high white peep-toe heels which she came to office wearing today.
 |
| KHUSHI'S DRESS |
She was fluttering around her desk gathering her belongs while happily humming an English pop-song softly in her melodic cute accented voice which was clearly heard in the silence around, swirling her hips dancing: “Oh, I just wanna take you anywhere that you'd like
We could go out any day, any night
Baby I'll take you there, take you there
Baby I'll take you there, yeah
Oh, tell me, tell me, tell me, how to turn your love on
You can get, get anything that you want
Baby just shout it out, shout it out
Baby just shout it out, yeah
And if you,
You want me too
Let's make a move”
Out of nowhere a pair of strong arms wrapped around her waist twirling her around and a husky warm voice sang to her with that sexy British accent making it even more charming with smile on lip: “Yeah, so tell me girl if every time we
To-o-uch
You get this kind of ru-u-ush
Baby, say yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
If you don't wanna take it slow
And you just wanna take me home
Baby, say yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
And let me kiss you...”
Arnav sang the last line rather seductively before he bend down pressing his lips on Khushi’s soft lips, making her spoon and kiss him back with equal passion. They both kissed each other heatedly and he pushed her on the desk then held her hips making her sit on it. Without breaking the kiss stood between her legs pulling her so close to himself that even air can’t get in-between them. Arnav’s one arm around her waist while other slipped under her skirt caressing her soft peach-cream skin while her hands were tugging at his hair and back of her neck.
Out of breath they pulled back from the kiss and Khushi eyes takes in the sexy picture her stud of husband made in ruffled raven hair like he just rolled out of bed, his white button-shirt’s sleeves rolled up till elbow slowing of his strong slightly tan muscular arms, his black tie loose around his neck and with only black waist-coat and black trousers he looked sex walking on legs to her giving her bedroom looks with those silver smoldering eyes and lips red and swollen.
He too was savoring her mesmerizing flushed feathers and smirked seeing her checking him out making her blush like ripe strawberries. Khushi flirtatiously says: “Hey Superman...” and tugs him closer by his tie.
Arnav smirked: “Hello there my Lois Lane...” greeting here back playfully making her giggle and her bend down peppering her face with kisses.
She whispered: “I love you, my stud of hubby...” kissing his stubble chin and bumped her nose with his cutely.
He smiled at her cute antics and replied her: “I love you too, my sexy wifey.” with a fond smile as they went from playful kisses to making out heatedly.
Lavanya felt she had seen more than enough she could handle seeing Arnav in another woman’s arms, so up and close. She silently retreated and got into the elevators as the scene she witnessed in Khushi’s cabin was burned in her mind and kept replaying itself. She got out of the elevators and went to parking, getting in her car as her thoughts filled with the playful and intimately closeness of Arnav with Khushi which she witnessed and she never shared with Arnav. She was always very self-conscious of the surroundings to let Arnav that close or intimate with her had always annoyed him. She saw Arnav and Khushi walking out of the building in each others’ arms sharing laughs and playful kisses as they got in their car and pulled out of the office premises without noticing her. Lavanya sat in her few moments processing her scattered thoughts; she noted that Khushi is very open about displaying her love and affection on Arnav in public without any care of surrounding... something she could never do and he always wanted from her. So with thoughts along the lines of Arnav-Khushi and the relation she had with Arnav lingered in her mind as she drove out of office premises and towards her home having a comparison and her thoughts all over the place.
What actually Lavanya never understood as to why Arnav always cared less about people around while she was very conscious, even to hold his hand in public. The real thing she never understood was Arnav’s upbringing, he was born and brought up in England and he didn’t have much of Indian culture in him that he has of British. So open display of affection didn’t bother him and Lavanya’s denying always hurt him, they never understood the difference between their upbringings...never found a common ground. But with Khushi things are different for Arnav because she understands him and is more attuned to him, also she has a very similar upbringing like him which naturally makes her shower her all love and attention on him openly anyways.
PRECAP: Some more past flashback but from a very new Point of view, any guesses who it can be?
.............
NOTE: The song is ‘Kiss You’ by One Direction...I’m a crazy 1D fan; they’re like so cute I swear LOL. Anyone here a 1D fan-girl and who is your favorite..? Also if anyone doesn’t like 1D please don’t make hate comments because I won’t like that and please no bashing my Zaynie, I know many are pissed off when he left the band but I don’t think that’s wrong. I mean everyone at one point moves on to do something more bigger then they’re already doing and Zayn’s going solo was his big move but for me he’ll always be part of One Direction always, that’s how I still think of him.
Now moving on from my 1D blabbering, I seriously don’t get how this story gets so many requests for updates and all...it’s so I don’t. Anyways here is the update, so do give your feedbacks about it... how were the flashbacks and which one you like the most, a glimpse of Arnav-Khushi courtship period or Arnav-Lavanya’s engagement? Just to let you know first I wasn’t planning to give two flashbacks in this chap... I wasn’t suppose to give the Arnav-Khushi flashback in here but I know I’ll get mobbed by readers for giving too much Arnav-Lavanya and then I thought its nice way to put the contrast between both the relationship.
Loved it ......
ReplyDeleteArshi scenes r lovely ..
Just dnt seprate dem...
N y he couldnt stay @ india n y la n asr relation broke n hw she married samar .....
W8ng
Awesome update, I think lavanya will have a new point of view. Please just don't separate arshi. Eagerly waiting for next update.
ReplyDeleteAwesome girl this is wonderful
ReplyDeleteThe way u protrate la is really good . She has to understand her mistakes
Update soon eagerly waiting
wonderful update love it
ReplyDeleteWonderful update. Loved the ARHI romance. No ARHI separation please...
ReplyDeleteSoooo nice but no arishi separation please
ReplyDeleteHi this is Chamkililaadgovernor from med... very nice update dear.. why din't Anjali and Aman married still ?? Why did Guptas made Lavanya's engagement before Anjali's ??
ReplyDeleteHi, well about Anjali not getting engaged then was because she wasn't in relationship with Aman back then. See Anjali is very ambitious character and Aman had to go though a lot to woo Anjali...so yeah despite being elder Anjali wasn't married first because she wanted to be independent. Don't worry I'll try to explain that better in upcoming chapter...
DeleteAwesome chapter loved it... Arnie is soooo cute... And what's the dhanno incident... Plss tell abt that too... Is Lavanya going to understand now that Arnav is not for her or is she still going to be stubborn... Eagerly waiting for more update soon dear
ReplyDeleteWow! Fabulous update. MTB and GD are the two awesome stories. and any update from them will make my day!
ReplyDeleteYou killed it. Just how you showed the love between Arnav and Khushi in the flashback 1. Kudos to it. But I sincerely pray Lav doesn't get any ideas listening to it.
Coming to flashback 2: It explains a great deal of story on how Arnav and LAv would have separated. It had given a direction to our Speculation. I love Arnav here, he tried to explain his lady love without being rude and make her see his point even al his patience had vanished. He tried to save Lavanya, before him. What a character.. Mr. Dreamy!!
Interesting part is Lavanya is introspecting herself. Well, that's a new!! I sincerely hope she will redeem herself. But, then the story would end, so the evil part of me wishes Lav to turn Evil.. BuaHahaha!!
Overall Nice Chappy!. I know, its not fair of me to ask you. but, please update soon. waiting!!
Don't worry Lavanya is turning any good anytime... she is going through many confusions right now & her thoughts are dwelling over 'What if' things didn't happen the way that did in last... also her pride won't let her back of so easily. Another thing Lavanya isn't a new person, she is just too proud & stubborn who just doesn't know when to back off type of a person... so her this nature is making do her all the wrong things.
Deletearshi fb scene was nice.prank on arnav was too much.arnav finding khushi alive was emotional.arn la fb scene was written wel.accident post fight was unexpected.arshi scene was romantic
ReplyDeleteLoveled the update. (Londoner)
ReplyDelete