CHAPTER 21: Dostana (Friendship)
[NOTE: Bengali conversation is used, translation is given in (italics)]
Khushi too was silently sobbing on her husband’s shoulder remembering that night, she pleaded them all so much to not go but they had promised to come back soon and she had waited but they never came back. Arnav only caressed her hair trying to take some of the pain away, so much his Mishti had to endure at least when his parents died, he had familiar faces around but she was cut-off from everything she ever knew, his heart pained for her loss. Others had also moved into tears hearing the tragic loss of Khushi’s except for Buaji and Garima who looked stoic and like they really didn’t want to be here.
As everything was being said Garima Gupta was reminiscing everything from her perspective about those days. She didn’t really share a very close relationship with her sister who was 05 years younger than her and she recalls well how Kashish was their mother’s darling though she had no problem with that being more of daddy’s girl herself. Despite being sisters, they were poles apart where she was quiet, introvert, obedient and average student, Kashish was prankster, loud, childish and brilliant student and their mother had always dreams of Kashish either becomes a doctor or engineer. That wish became true also when Kashish got scholarship and went to Kolkata for studying architecture, then she came back and that day she told their father about the man she loved, hell had broken in their house.
Then the Raichoudhary family had come and taken her with them and she remembers how her father had raged about it saying that Kashish would only be used and the guy wouldn’t marry her, how her mother gave her father silent treatment. But then 10 days later it was all over T.V. channels and newspapers coverage over The Raichoudhary wedding and she remembers her mother watching news all day for the wedding. After that over the years her mother was in contact with her sister, watched all news about her or her in-law’s family and even her father silently followed the news to know about Kashish as he too had realized just how good of family and husband Kashish found for herself. He had gotten over his anger which was why he never stopped Amma but he remembered well enough about his behaviour and Aditya saying that Kashish can’t keep any relation with her father was only reason he never contacted outright… didn’t want to create unnecessary problems in his daughter’s marriage.
In this time Garima had gotten married to Sashi Gupta and where Kashish was living a high profile glamorous life with brilliant career, handsome loving husband and rich caring in-laws, she wasn’t having all that good in comparison. Sashi was a good husband and they lived comfortably but her in-laws were too conservative which made them make her lives more than little difficult plus knowing about Kashish’s love marriage they sometimes said little too harsh words. Then her daughter was born and she had to hear all disappointments of her in-laws though her husband was happy but he was never the one to stand up for her in front of his parents. And after few years Kashish had her daughter, she had seen the news coverage and how her mother use to tell about the Raichoudhary family celebrating the arrival of Khushi, that had made her so jealous as at Payal’s birth she had to listen so many criticisms.
First her mother then her father passed away within 02 years and though Kashish didn’t come for final rites, she had received both the news. Over the years after that only news channels or newspapers were her sources of knowing about Kashish’s life which had made her jealous of her getting everything and then suddenly Sashi’s sweet business had lot of losses and they were under huge debt. That year had been very difficult for the family especially with the expenses of her old sick mother-in-law and Madhumati had come to stay with them as her husband had suddenly passed away. Then one night they had received a phone call from Kolkata Police informing about Kashish and her family’s accident leaving behind little Khushi and as a minor’s closest blood relative they were being contacted for custody. The Gupta family had said no about bringing the little girl even Garima wasn’t in favour, the girl could go to orphanage for all she cares but Sashi being the soft-hearted didn’t want to abandon the child.
So, that was why Sashi and Garima had gone Kolkata to bring her sister’s only daughter and reaching there she was dumbstruck by the abandons that clearly showed just how wealthy Raichoudhary family was. And at that moment she was so very jealous that Kashish was living off in such luxuries while she was struggling, and they found that Khushi wasn’t as orphan as they thought, she had people who wanted to take care of her and Garima could have easily handed over the custody over to them. In fact, Sashi had wanted that only now assure that the child wasn’t alone but Garima had seen the benefit of taking Khushi in, if they took the girl than they’ll get heavy monthly allowances which would solve all their problems. And that was the reason Garima had brought Khushi with her and to not let anyone know that the allowance money would be mostly spent on them rather than the little girl, she made sure that none of the remaining Khushi’s family have contact with her anymore. And also, Garima’s jealousy over her sister’s daughter growing up in luxuries while her daughter would be brought up like pauper was something, she couldn’t handle… Why should Kashish and her daughter have all and Garima and her daughter will know only poverty…? No, Garima’s daughter will have everything she ever wanted and for that Kashish’s daughter has to live her life on compromise.
All these years that was what Garima had thought that those people have forgotten about Khushi but they were smarter to have secretly communication without letting anyone know all these years. And Garima felt foolish to have not been more observant about what was going in Khushi’s life because then she wouldn’t have missed it. Even Khushi has been clever by portraying herself in front of like they wanted but doing things her way behind their back careful to not let anyone know. Garima wouldn’t have tolerated Khushi if it wasn’t for the money as the girl had been more trouble for her, always steeling everyone’s attention like Kashish had. This was the reason she had even agreed to marry of the girl to Shyam knowing the man wasn’t that well-settled and something was clearly wrong with him. If Khushi had been married off to that man than she would have been off their backs and Payal could be married off to a well-settled family because always whatever proposals came once they saw Khushi, they wanted her as their babu. Even Abhishek’s family had been same, since they saw Khushi after the pre-wedding ritual they had played the give-us-dowry-or-change-bride card that was what broke the marriage which of course except for Sashi, Garima and Buaji no one knew.
Madhumati Mishra loved her niece, Payal like her own daughter as she doesn’t have any children of her own what with her husband being sick when he was alive and then passed away at a very young age. Now Buaji had never wanted Sashi to bring Khushi as she felt that it would reduce Payal’s share of things and she was right, ever since Khushi had come in their lives she had pushed Payal to side-lines with always attracting attention of everyone. That was the reason why she could never fully accept Khushi or be harsh on her at times, she had been so enthusiastic to get her off their backs by marrying her of to Shyam. That was the reason for convincing Khushi to not tell Raizada family about Shyam’s true colour for Payal’s sake as she didn’t want such a good proposal to be spoiled. When the proposal for Payal came from a rich family the Raizada’s she had been very happy even though the minor issue of Payal’s mother-in-law remained, she was sure her niece would live like a queen. But everything had to be ruined by Khushi marrying Arnav Singh Raizada and Buaji was well aware that Khushi as Arnav’s wife would hold more authority over the house than Payal as Akash’s wife. This was just another reason what made her be angry at Khushi, she always ruins things for Payal with merely her presence… it would have been better if she never came in their lives.
The reaction in others were varied as NK, Payal, Anjali, Lavanya and Mamiji had already moved into tears hearing about the tragic story and their heart went out for the little girl who had not only lost her family but everything she had known at mere age of 10. Mamaji and Akash also felt bad hearing about Khushi’s past through Shyam was thinking about something else that had more of his attention at moment. True it is sad that a family was wiped out in an accident but that wasn’t important at the moment, what had his attention was the fact Khushi’s real family seemed to be rich and at present only she was only heir to huge fortune and Shyam was sure that his Saale Saheb was aware of this… maybe this was the reason he married Khushi so hurriedly and could only curse himself for missed opportunity… If only Khushi hadn’t known the truth about him then he would have married to her and also gotten hold of her fortune but now all this will go to his Saale Saheb.
Nani’s heart also melted for Khushi; she couldn’t imagine how it would have been for a little girl to not only loose her most of the family but move from her home to some strangers in a strange place. She discreetly wiped her eyes and said: “Bahut bura hua jo hua par kismet pe kiska zor hai, hum sirf uske saath jee sakte hai jo hota hai aur zindigi mein aage bardh sakte hai. Toh ab Khushi Bitya ke parivaar mein kon kon hai, aap logo ke elawa…?” curious to know about surviving family. (Whatever happened was very sad but who has even been able to control destiny, we can only live with what happens and move on in out lives. So, now who all are there in Khushi Bitya’s family except you all…?)
Rishi answered: “Now there is Radha Didi, Khushi’s Bua or as calls her Moni-maa, then Radha Didi’s son, Rudraksh or Rudra as we call him. Rudra is an IPS officer and there is Ryan, Abhay Dada and Piya Boudi’s second son, he is a lawyer and Radha Didi had taken his responsibility after that accident with our support. She was staying at Raichoudhary house with the kids ever since as there are people around to help her if she needs and it was easier for us to also immediately reach as we are next door neighbours.” though his concerned eyes were on Khushi who was hiding in her husband’s embrace, “Titli you okay Beta…?” asked worriedly, not being able to help himself.
She didn’t reply instead snuggled more in Arnav’s embrace and Arnav replied: “She’s fine Uncle, main hoon na yaha apni Mishti ko sambhaalne ke liye aur ab aapko isse lekar koi cheenta karne ki zaroorat nahi hai.” assuring him with a slight smile as he kissed the top of his wife’s head going back to whispering sweet nothings to her to make her smile softly. (She’s fine Uncle, now I am here to take care of my Mishti and now you don’t need to be worried about her anymore.)
Rishi and Gayatri could only smile in satisfaction that their daughter was in safe hands, yes for them Titli was their second daughter and no one can say otherwise. Khushi pulled back from her husband’s embrace and he wiped her tears, without caring about audience placed kisses on her cheeks sweetly. She blushed but didn’t shy away, she could never shy away from her husband’s touch or affection and gave him a sweet shy smile in return which he reciprocated with a flirty smile of his own.
Khushi looked at the two people who took care of her as much as they could from afar, says: “Rishi, G-maa, thank you so much for everything you both did for me in all these years. If you both have wanted you could have so easily forgotten about me after the Gupta family took me in but you both were always there for me. Rishi made sure to visit me at least once a month and you both made sure to either take me with you guys or come to spent every vacation with me… you guys never forgot me. You both always looked after me like your own daughter, always been proud of all my achievements, scolded me when I was wrong, gave me strength when I was depressed or a shoulder to cry when I needed… You both did as much as possible for you to never let me feel the absence of my parents or family and for that I’ll forever be grateful to you both.” feeling teary and emotional again.
The Mukherjee couple looked at her affectionate smiles and Rishi said: “Oh, so now our Titli has grown up so much that she is saying thank you to her Rishi and G-maa… suna Gayatri, now Titli is behaving as if we are outsiders to her.” his face stern and bit angry.
Gayatri too says: “Haan dekha bhi aur suna bhi… biye hoyegache na tai akhon amar-a por hoyegachi.” with stern face. (Yes, I saw and heard also… now she is married that is why we are now outsiders for her.)
Khushi looked at them and said quickly: “Arre na ki bolcho tomara, por hote jabe kano tomara… Rishi! G-maa!” as both of them turned face away from her, she looked at her husband, “Arnav dekho na…” pouting knowing he’ll make everything right like always. (Oh no what are you saying, why would you be outsiders to me… Rishi! G-maa! Arnav see…)
Arnav side-hugged his wife and he knew they both were not actually angry, maybe little hurt by the words of her thinking she was actually thanking them for looking out for her as if she was an outsider to them. He smilingly says: “Uncle, G-maa, Mishti didn’t mean to hurt you or make you feel like she thought you anything less than her parents, she was just thanking you for all the unconditional love you gave her. Don’t we thank our parents for their love… it’s good to let know people we love and care about how much we appreciate them from time to time, please don’t get angry or hurt by her words.” requesting sweetly.
Now how could they both be angry after such sweet request from their son-in-law and both smiled at the pair. Gayatri says: “Theel hai Arnav Beta if you say so… and Titli don’t ever say things like that again, you are our daughter… you say things like that makes us feel like you don’t consider us your own.” said to Khushi.
Rishi said: “Adi and Kashish had left you in our care, I know if the situation was reversed then they would have taken care of our daughter like their own too. You haven’t grown up so much yet Titli that you’ll start thanking your Rishi and G-maa, ab kiya theek hai par dobaara kabhi maat karna.” hence saying that she was forgiven for now.
Happy at being forgiven Khushi excitedly hugged both of them and when she pulled back, to give a kiss on both their cheeks. She stepped back to sit beside her husband again but her eyes widened and she bit her tongue as she sank in her place muttering meekly: “Sorry…” which made everyone curious what happened.
Rishi and Gayatri were confused too but she noticed Khushi’s chocolate covered sticky fingers and looked at her husband’s suit jacket, laughing amused. He too looked down following his wife’s eyes and noticed a big chocolate stain on his jacket, signed exasperatedly: “Titli are you never going to change, again chocolate stain on my coat… how do you manage to do that every time and that too to me only..?” taking a wet-tissue from the table to try and wipe the stain off.
Others gave confused look at his words and laughing Gayatri replied: “Actually ever since Titli was kid and she has chocolate in her hands then she’ll definitely somehow manage to get Rishi’s clothes stained. Don’t know how it happens but it does every single time… even now…” laughing at her husband’s face and others too laughed a bit as the funny situation melted the earlier sadness.
Khushi looked apologetic: “Sorry Rishi, I didn’t do that deliberately… bas hogaya…” as she resumed eating her half-eaten chocolate.
Mamaji curiously asked: “Rishiji why does Khushi Bitya call you by your name…?” which others too wanted to know.
Rishi replied: “Because Titli’s father, grandfather and uncles called me by my name and she use to copy them, so by default she too calls me by my name only.” fondly looking at her, shaking his head at her childishness.
Akash questioned: “So, didn’t anyone ever correct her later or after she grew up…?”
Rishi answered: “Kashish and her Thami tried to but as I said Titli was very pampered.” never really minded that she calls him by his name.
Khushi asked: “You want me to call you Uncle, Rishi…?” making a face.
He shook his head, replied: “No, call me what you always do… you know I don’t like when you call me uncle.” as he knew she only does that when she was angry with him otherwise it is always his name she address him with.
Satisfied with the reply, she asked: “By the way, where is she…? Didn’t she too come with you guys…?” now finished with her chocolate, she folded the wrapper and kept on the empty teacup tray, wiping her hand with the wet-tissue.
Before anyone can reply the doorbell rang and they saw HP went to open the door, then they all saw a blur of red came inside running, screaming: “Kukoooo…!”
Khushi too jumped up from her place and went running, screaming: “Candy…!” as she hugged the red blur which actually was a girl of her age. Both were hugging each other tightly as she said, “I missed you so much my Candy!” then pulled back from the bone-crushing hug with a huge smile.
Others were watching the two girls with varied expression which consisted of Arnav, Rishi and Gayatri with fond smile while others were confused with the newcomer. They all made way towards them and saw a beautiful young girl in red dress with long light brown curly hair standing beside Khushi smiling, replied: “I missed you too my Kukoo…”
Nani asked out loud: “Khushi Bitya yeh kon hai…?” making both the girls to turn around and look at them. (Khushi Bitya who is this…?)
Khushi smilingly replied: “This is Dr. Maya Mukherjee, Rishi and G-maa’s only daughter and my Best Friend Forever-slash-sister.” doing the introductions.
Maya smiled at everyone sweetly, said: “Hello everyone…” then she went forward to hug her parents happily. Then moved towards Arnav, saying, “Jijaji… my one and only sweet Jiju… the one who stole my Kukoo's heart, finally I got the chance to meet you.” as she hugged him smiling.
He smiled hugging her back, said: “My sweet sweet, one and only Saali Sahiba, it is pleasure to meet you too finally. So, why didn’t you arrive with your parents…? Did you travel alone…? As far as I know you haven’t been to Delhi before, you should have called me than I would have made arrangements.” pulling back inquired concerned.
Khushi smiled at her husband’s caring nature towards her BFF-slash-sister as she side hugged him wanting herself to know why Maya arrived separately. Maya smiled at her Jiju’s concern, replied: “I had to visit the hospital once I will be joining tomorrow, so I had gone there straight from airport. And chill Jiju I wasn’t along, mere saath toh Ry--” bit her tongue as if she wasn’t supposed to say that but quickly went to covering up, “I meant I had a friend with me.” giving a nervous smile.
Khushi looked at her BFF suspiciously while Arnav raised a brow questioningly in his signature ASR style making Maya fidgeting even more under their scrutiny and nervously glanced behind her but quickly looked away. But nothing missed ASR’s sharp eyes and he had followed her gaze, his eyes widened noticing someone hiding behind the pillar then smirked as he said: “Oh Mr. Qutub Minar, pillar ke peeche se bahar nikalo, tumhare samane pillar bhi chota lag raha hai…” looking sarcastically in that direction which others too followed hearing his remark. (Oh Mr. Qutub Minar, come out from behind the pillar, in front of you that pillar also looks small…)
Then from behind the pillar came a tall handsome man in late twenties, smiling sheepishly at them, said: “Hello everyone…” then looked at Arnav and Khushi, “Hi Titli… Hi Arnie… ah surprise…” lamely towards them.
Khushi simply stared at him shocked while Arnav rolled his eyes, asked: “Care to explain how come you are here when at this moment you were supposed to be in Massachusetts at this time… or that was what you had told us yesterday morning when we called you…?” raising a brow in questioningly while the Raizada family was confused with his behaviour as if he knew this person.
He smiled nervously at being caught red-handed, replied: “Actually I was trying to give you guys surprise, yesterday after your call I had my return flight to India… I just didn’t tell you guys and what is with this interrogation, aise welcome karte hai kya…?” trying to get himself off the hook.
That seemed to be enough to break Khushi from her shocked state and she jumped screaming: “Dada!!!” running to hug him tightly much to most of the audiences’ surprise.
He smilingly hugged her back, equally tight and lifting her off the ground as he soon felt tears soaking him which made him put her back and pull back from the hug. He wiped her tears, said: “Aye dehko kanna-kati kore… Titli kande na… Oye kanna thama na hole tor bor amake are tor saathe dekha korte debe na jodi tui amon kore kanna korish amake dekhe sob somoye.” wiping her tears as he joked to make her stop. (Arre see started crying… Titli don’t cry… Oye stop crying or else your husband won’t let me see you again if you keep crying seeing me every time.)
She tightly clutched his hand on her face and pressed her lips to stop sobbing, then said: “Amar bor amon korbe na *sob sob* sudhu sudhu or bepare *sob* ulto-palta bolo na *sob*… I missed you so much Dada-bhai…” getting all emotional again. (My husband would never do that *sob sob* don’t say nonsense *sob* about him *sob*… I missed you much Bhaiyya…)
His smile also got little wobbly as he replied: “Bujhlam, akhon tor bor-er bepare kichu bola jabe na toh… I missed you too Doll… so much…” then to lighten up, he said, “Acha aye baar toke theek kore dekhte de…” looking at her from head to toe, “Wah ekdom ginni-banni hoyegechis saree-sindoor pore, ki sundor lagche toke… Ebar bol toh tor bor toke theek kore dekhe na class nite hobe…?” teasing her knowing well enough just how doting her husband is. (Understood, now can’t say anything about your husband right… I missed you too Doll… so much… Now me look at you properly… Wow you look so married wearing saree and all, you’re looking so beautiful… Now tell me is your husband taking good care of you or do I have to take his class…?)
Khushi blushed at the teasing, tears forgotten now and replied: “Or theke bhalo bor are hoyena… khoob bhalobase amaye…” with a shy smile glanced back at her husband and then looked back at her brother. (There is no better husband than him… he loves me so much…)
Arnav stepped in, saying: “Okay enough of your reunion… and please stop talking in Bengali when most of us don’t understand what both are talking about though I know this Mr. Qutub Minar was talking something about me.” standing beside the duo and giving him a knowing-look.
He rolled his eyes, retorting back: “How many times do I have to tell you not to call me that, we both are of same height and if I’m Qutub Minar then you’re no less than Mr. Eiffel Tower.” sounding quite childish.
Arnav rolled his eyes, saying: “Whatever at least being tall is in my family, I mean look at Akash… agreed he is shorter than me by two inches but at least he is 6’1. And look at you, I think you have grown few more inches since last time I saw you on my wedding day… if you keep growing like this than you won’t find a girl to marry you, as is it is that is going to be a hard task with your absurd height.” pulling his leg smirking at him.
He glared at him, said: “Titli apne pati ko chup karne bol…” said to Khushi. (Titli ask your husband to shut up…)
But Arnav was faster to reply: “Usse kya bol raha hai, mujhse baat kar Mr. Qutub Minar.” giving a superior look crossing his arms over his chest. (Why are you saying to her, talk to me Mr. Qutub Minar.)
He gritted his teeth saying: “Just because tu mere behan ka pati hai main kuch bol nahi raha but don’t test my patience.” and continued glaring at him. (Just because you are my sister’s husband, I am not saying anything but don’t test my patience.)
While the others were watching the exchange between the two with fascination as the Raizada family couldn’t understand how did Arnav know this man and what was actually going between them. ASR smirked said: “Oh, am so scared by your threats… Saale sach mein mera Saala bane se pehle se janta hoon tujhe aur tere mere beech yeh controlling temper aur itna respect kab se shuru hogaya…” tilting his head a little gave him a look. (Oh, am so scared by your threats… Saale before really becoming my Brother-in-law I know you and since when did controlling temper and so much respect started between us…)
He shook his head chuckling mildly as he went forward and give him a bro-hug, said: “Kaminey tu kabhi nahi sudhrega, haina Arnie.” pulled back patting his back. (Bastard you’re never going to change, right Arnie.)
Arnav gave a lopsided grin replied: “Saale sudhra toh tu bhi nahi hai, Ray.” and punched him on the stomach. (Jerk even you haven’t changed, Ray.)
He winched, said: “Ouch! Oye mar kyun raha hai…?” rubbing the place he was hit and turning to Khushi says, “Dekh Titli tera pati kitna violent ho raha hai, tere bhai ko mar raha hai…” complaining to her playfully. (Ouch! Oye why are you hitting me…? See Titli your husband is turning violent; he is hitting your brother now…)
Arnav punched him again, says: “Oye tu usse kya complain kar raha hai… aur tujhe toh aur maar pardhni chahiye, pata hai kal kitna upset hogai thi meri Mishti tere call ke baad jab tune usse kaha ki tujhe wapas aane mein aur bhi dus din lagenge. Aur aaj bhi meri Mishti ko rula diya tune, Saale Saheb tumhe toh mujhse maar hi milni chahiye.” and went to pull his ear while Khushi only giggled seeing her husband and brother bickering. (Oye why are you complaining to her… and you should get beaten by me, so you know how upset my Mishti got after yesterday’s call from you when you told her that it will take ten more days for you to return. And even today you make my Mishti cry, Saale Saheb you only deserve to get beaten by me.)
He winched trying to free his poor ear but that only got his ear to be twisted even more harder, said: “Ahhh! Oye chod mera bechare kan ko Arnie… Kyun mere pyaare cute kan ko haathi ke kan bana raha hai… Titli tujhe bahut hasee aa rahi hai, apne pati ko bol na mere kan chor de… Ow ow ow! Bachao koi mujhe… Ow ow ow!” pleading his sister to rescue him. (Ahhh! Oye leave my poor ear Arnie… Why are you turning my cute ear into elephant ear… Titli why are you laughing, ask your husband to leave my ear… Ow ow ow! Help me someone… Ow ow ow!)
Khushi giggled replying: “Yeh aap dono Jeeja aur Saale ke beech ka mamla hai, hum kuch nahi bolne wale… Aur sahi hai, hum toh aapke kan khech nahi sakte aur aapne kal hume bahut udas kiya… uske liye aapko punishment milna chachiye.” as she clearly back off from providing any help. (This matter is between you Brother-in-laws, I am not getting in-between… And you deserve it, I can’t pull your ear and yesterday you made me very sad… you should get punished for that.)
Maya too giggles commenting: “Yeh acha hai, shaadi ko dus din bhi nahi hue aur abhi se Khushi Jiju ki Mishti hogai hai.” teasing her friend as she wiggled her eyebrows at her getting a blush in return. (This is nice, it is not even ten days they’re married and from now only Khushi has become Jiju’s Mishti.)
Unable to help anymore, Manorama Raizada question: “Arnav Bitwa who ijj this jiska tum earwa pull karat ho…? Hello hi bye-bye!” batting her heavily painted eyelashes. (Arnav Bitwa who is this you are pulling ear of…? Hello hi bye-bye!)
Arnav casually replied: “Yeh hai Mr. Ryan Raichoudhary, Mishti ka Bhai aur mera dusra best friend.” still twisting his best friend’s ear. (This is Mr. Ryan Raichoudhary, Mishti’s brother and my second-best friend.)
Almost everyone was shocked by the introduction and that wasn’t because he was Khushi’s brother… no it was because he was Arnav’s best friend and they only knew about being Aman his best friend… ah, more like only friend. No one had any idea that how could Arnav possibly have known Ryan from, let alone knowing about being best friends, it was really very unexpected and shocking as they watched the scene unfold in front of them with even more fascination.
Ryan continued to try freeing his ear, said: “Ow! Arnie yaar mera kan chor, dekh itna kan khechega toh sach mein haathi ka kan hojayega… Kyun kar raha hai aisa bhai, do-chaar aur punch mar le par mera kan chor… Titli bol na apne pati ko mera kan chorne… Rishi Uncle, G-maa aap bolo na isko mera kan chorne... Aap sabko bahut hasee aa rahi hai par mujhe dard ho raha hai, bachao koi… Ow ow ow!” winching in pain and pouted unable to rescue his ear from getting abuse. (Ow! Arnie yaar leave my ear, see if you keep pulling my ear like this it will really turn elephant ear… Why are you doing this brother, punch me few times more but leave my ear… Titli ask your husband to leave my ear… Rishi Uncle, G-maa please ask him to leave my ear… All of you are laughing but I am in pain, help me… Ow ow ow!)
Khushi stopped giggling, seeing her brother really in pain and says: “Arnav bas hogaya punishment, please Dada ko chordo… dekho unko dard ho raha hai, please chordo ab…” pleading cutely and almost tearing up, on the verge of crying. (Arnav enough punishment, please leave Bhaiyya now… see it is hurting him, please leave now…)
Being the obedient husband that Arnav Singh Raizada is, left Ryan’s ear, saying: “Mishti ne bola toh tujhe chor raha hoon par dobara usko kal ki tarah upset mat karna… agar kiya na toh pakka tere kan ko haathi ke kan bana dunga, samjhe Saale Saheb…?” giving his warning though his tone was playful but eyes promised seriousness. (I am leaving you because Mishti is saying but don’t ever make her upset like yesterday… if you did then I’ll definitely make your ears like elephant ears, understood Saale Saheb…?)
Ryan was rubbing his poor abused ear, replied: “Agar tu meri behan se itna pyaar nahi karta na toh pakka tujhe nahi chor ta iske liye ya mujhe dhamkane ke liye. Par acha laga yeh dekh kar ki meri chotti behan ke pass itna pyaar karne wala koi hai jo uske mathay ki ek shikan ki har wajah se lardhne ko tayar hai, chahe who uska bhai hi kyun na ho.” (If didn’t love my sister so much and threatened me for her than surely, I wouldn’t have let you go for this or threatening me. But am happy that my baby sister has such a loving man who is ready fight any reason that dared to make her frown, even if that is her own brother also.)
Khushi was already beside her brother and pulled him with her towards the sitting area and made him sit as she inspected his abused ear concerned seeing as his ear has turned red. Others had followed the duo and taken seat as they watched them while she fretted, saying: “Your ear has turned red, it is paining too much Dada…? I’ll go bring First-aid…” as she turns to leave only to be pulled back by her brother holding her wrist to stop her.
Ryan smiled at her, said: “Titli am fine, I don’t need First-aid or anything… Now come and sit here beside me, I’m seeing you after so many days… even if I saw you on your wedding day, we didn’t get to talk properly…” as he pulled her to sit beside him and Arnav had taken the other side to sit, making her to be in-between them.
She asked again concerned: “Are you sure Dada…? You’re not hiding so that I don’t get too worried, right…?” wanting to make sure.
He smiled assuring her: “Yes Titli I’m fine… now you tell me, are you okay, right…? No problem or anyone that I need to take care of…?”
She smilingly replied: “Everything is fine Dada, and how can anything be wrong when Arnav is here… bahut khayal rahte hai humara.” turning give a sweet smile to her husband who just kissed the side of her head in response.
Ryan smiled as he knew his best friend well enough to know that his sister is in safe hands but he also knew the problem his best friend’s family had with his sister, especially his best friend’s Di. NK comments: “Khushiji I must say aapka Bhai bahut khamba hai… he is so tall which makes me feel so small.” making everyone gape at him while Arnav crackled in laughter and Ryan fumed, pouting angrily.
Khushi suppressed her laugh, said: “Nanheji, khamba nahi lamba… khamba means pole, lamba means tall.” but giggled at her brother’s plight as she knew he hated the jokes always made about his height.
Arnav said between his laughter: “Oh! NK for the first time your messed-up word also made sense… He is totally a khamba…” bursting in another round loud laughter.
Ryan made a face, saying: “Ha ha bloody ha… so funny that I am dying laughing…” but his friend didn’t stop as others were also laughing now, annoyed, “Shut up everyone! And what are you laughing about Arnie, if I am khamba than so are you as we’re both the same height… so you also make NK feel small… stop laughing Arnie!” getting irritated with his best friend.
Arnav answered controlling his laugh: “I make NK feel small all the time and that is just not only with my height, so he hardly notices it. But you Ray, totally different matter, your height is factor here, Mr. Qutub Minar…” teasing him.
Ryan makes a face at that comment and was going to retort but their bickering was interrupted by curious family members. Mamiji asked: “Hello Hi Bye-bye! Arnav Bitwa tell ujj haaw do you know Khushi’s brotherwa…? Humko toh tumhari Aman Bitwa elawa kono Fraaand hai bataya nahi… Bonder bhy? Inbestigation karegi padi!” in typical Mamorama Bond style while others were also curious about this. (Hello Hi Bye-bye! Arnav Bitwa you never told us about how you know Khushi’s brother…? You never said anything about your any other friend except Aman Bitwa… Wonder why? Have to do investigation!)
Arnav looked at her curious face and replied casually: “I know Ryan since school days after Di and me came to Delhi to stay with you here, Aman and Ryan were both in my class. Ryan too had just joined school and was living in school hostel while his family was in Kolkata, that time the accident didn’t happen because that happened after a year of him being in boarding, we were 15 I remember. Somehow, they both had recruited themselves as my friends and won’t leave me alone or stop pestering me, no matter how rude or silent treatment I gave them. After a while I kind of accepted that they weren’t going anywhere and since then we were three musketeers… Both of them are had stuck to by my side through thick and thin, yaha tak ki mere peeche peeche Harvard bhi aagaye, Aman with partial-scholarship and Ryan instead of going Oxford for his LLB, changed plans to followed me to Cambridge.” with a fond smile for the two idiots who took upon themselves to look out for him.
Ryan spoke: “Toh aur kya karte, tu toh apna dhayan bilkul nahi rakhta hai agar hum tere peeche peeche Harvard nahi jaate toh pata nahi kya haal bana leta apna. Aur tune sirf yeh bataya jo hume kiya, uska ka kya jo tune humare liye kiya…? Aman had serious family problems, it was only because of us as his friends that life mein kuch ban gaya, especially you have been his motivation to make something out of himself. Aur jab meri family uss accident mein guzar gai aur Titli ko zabardasti Lucknow lekar chale gaye, tune aur Aman ne milkar mujhe sambhala…tum dono nahi hote toh na jane kya karta main. So, the point is hum teeno ko ek dusre ki zaroorat thi as friends to help each other and we did that by still sticking together as friends, samjha Arnie.” giving his friend a smile. (What else could we have done; you don’t take care of yourself at all and if we hadn’t followed you to Harvard than who knows what you would have done to yourself. And you only told them about what we did for you, what about all the things you did for us…? Aman had serious family problems, it was only because of us as his friends that life that he made something out of himself, especially you have been his motivation to make something out of himself. And when my family passed away in that accident and Titli was forcibly taken to Lucknow, it was you and Aman who had looked after me… if it weren’t for you two, I don’t know what I would have done. So, the point is that the three of us needed each other as friends to help each other and we did that by still sticking together as friends, understood Arnie.)
Arnav returned the smile while Khushi gazed at both her husband and brother, happy with the bond they shared and that they both had each other at the low points of life when they truly needed a friend. It was Akash who asked: “Toh Bhai aapko pata tha ki Khushiji aapke dost ki behan hai…?” wondering when his brother discovered that and how. (So, Bhai you knew that Khushiji is your friend’s sister…?)
Arnav looked at him and said: “Bhabhi…”
Akash blinked perplexed: “Huh…?” clearly not understanding.
He rolled his eyes, saying: “Khushiji nahi, Khushi Bhabhi bolo… I was waiting how long it will take you and NK both to realize that but it doesn’t seem to happening any time soon. So, I am telling you both myself, from now on address her properly and I better not hear you both calling her Khushiji instead of Khushi Bhabhi, clear…?” raising a brow at them in business-like manner. Poor Akash and NK, what can they do other than nodding their heads in affirmation in front of mighty ASR, then he continued to reply the earlier question, “And no, I had no idea that Mishti was Ryan’s sister because if I had known that then I wouldn’t have troubled her so much. Woh toh shaadi ke din jab maine Aman aur Ryan ko mandir mein bulaya tha toh pata chala, it was pure luck that Ray was also in Delhi that day and was able to come.”
Ryan adds his two cents: “Yep it was coincidental that I was in Delhi for a case hearing in Supreme Court that day and my flight that night for Massachusetts got postponed to next day. Jab Arnie ne mujhe yeh call kiya yeh bolke ki mandir aa jao aur saath mein marriage register ko bhi lekar aaye, toh Aman aur main pooch gaye waha marriage register ke saath. Now imagine my surprise jab mujhe pata chala ki Arnie na sirf shaadi kar raha hai balki jis lardki se kar raha hai woh meri behan hai, jab ki mujhe koi andaza bhi nahi tha ki yeh dono ek dusre ko jaante bhi hai khaas karke jab jaane ki koi wajah nahi thi. Uss din mujhe pata chala ki jis Laad Governor ke baare mein Titli pura time complain karti thi woh Arnav Singh Raizada hai… vase mujhe phele hi samjh jaana chahiye tha Titli ki baato se ki uska Laad Governor kon hai, after all pure Delhi mein ek hi toh itna khardoos, akdoo, sadu hai. I don’t know what was more shocking to me, Arnie ki shaadi ya Titli se Arnie ki shaadi aur woh gadha Aman, usse toh bahut hasee aa rahi thi waha kharde kharde. Phir uss raat maine aur Aman ne milkar in dono ki shaadi karwai… shayad bhagwan ki marzi thi iss liye uss din main Delhi mein tha aur mujhe apni behan ko dulhan ke roop mein dekhne aur uska kanyadaan karne ka moka mila. Aur bhale hi yeh ek surprise tha jo maine expect nahi kiya tha par isse acha surprise nahi mil sakta tha, after all meri chotti si Titli ko mere dost Arnie se acha pati mil hi nahi sakta.” as he told the family and side hugged his sister. (Yep it was coincidental that I was in Delhi for a case hearing in Supreme Court that day and my flight that night for Massachusetts got postponed to next day. When Arnie called me asking to come to temple and to bring a marriage register along, so when Aman and I reached with a marriage register there. Now imagine my surprise to find that not only Arnie was marrying someone but that girl turns out be my sister, I had no idea that they both even knew each other in first place especially since they had no reason to. That day I realized that the Laad Governor she used to complain about all the time was Arnav Singh Raizada… but I should have realized that earlier from Titli’s words who her Laad Governor was, after all in whole Delhi there is only one such rude, arrogant, snobbish person. I don’t know what was more shocking to me, Arnie getting married or Titli getting married to Arnie and that idiot Aman was just laughing standing there. Then that night Aman and I both got their marriage conducted… maybe it was God’s will that I was in present in Delhi and got to see my sister as bride and was able to do her kanyadaan. And even if it was a surprise that I didn’t expect but I couldn’t have gotten better surprise than that, after all I know that my little Titli couldn’t have found a better husband than my friend Arnie.)
Khushi looked at her brother with teary smile, said: “Thank you Dada, you are the best…” for his unconditional support he gave to her relationship with Arnav.
Ryan smiled back at her and says: “I know… but you should probably better know this that Rudra Dada is very angry about having missed your wedding. Ghar chalo ek baar tumhe Bade Bhaiyya tumhare pati ki class lenge…” joked trying to lighten up.
Arnav smirked at his friend asked: “Tu meri chor, main apna sambhal lunga kuch bhi karke... Tu yeh baata ki teri class le tere Bade Bhaiyya ne…?” pulling his leg. (You leave about me, I’ll manage myself somehow... You tell me that did you Big Brother take you class...?)
He made a face replying: “Bade Dada ne toh pure saath ghante ka lecture sunaya Skype call mein, ab tak ghar nahi gaya unke darr se… samne mila na toh pakka maarenge mujhe.” pouting at his situation. (Bade Bhaiyya had lectured me for full seven hours in Skype call, I haven’t even gone home because of him… if I am in front of him, am sure he is going to beat me.)
Gayatri adds: “Marna toh hume bhi chahiye tumhe, akhir kar hum sabne Titli ki shaadi miss ki siwaye tumhare.” while her husband and daughter nodded in agreement. (Even we should also hit you, after all we all missed Titli’s wedding except you.)
Ryan whined, saying: “G-maa… yaar aap sab mujh bechare ko kyun marna chahte ho, bolna hai toh Arnie aur Titli ko bolo after all shaadi in dono ne ki hai, main toh ittefaq se waha tha warna main bhi miss kar jata aap logo ki tarah.” trying to defend himself. (G-maa… yaar why are you all after want to hit poor me, if you want to say something than say to Arnie and Titli after all they are the once to have gotten married, I was present there co-incidentally otherwise I would have also missed like you guys.)
Rishi replied giving him a look: “My little Titli never gets scolding from anyone in the family and Arnav is our Titli’s husband, humara acha pyaar Damad… so why would we say anything to them… No, all scolding you have to take upon yourself, Ryan.” teasing him which made Ryan pout while others laugh.
The Raizada family had nice time mingling and knowing more about Khushi’s family though the Gupta family remained mainly silent spectators watching everything. Lavanya, Anjali and Shyam were more interested to find about Khushi’s past and anything that can be used to kick her out of the house but they made sure to conceal their intentions.
After a while, Rishi asked: “Naniji we wanted your permission to take Titli with us for her pag-phere rasam.”
Nani smilingly replied: “Sure Rishi Bitwa, you can take Khushi Bitya for Pag-phere after all she is your daughter… but where are you all staying…?” inquiring about their staying arrangements.
Rishi answered: “Actually, we had bought the Mansion two houses further in this lane and we are shifting here, seeing as Ryan is mostly in Delhi for his practice and to stay near Titli while Maya also got a good job in a hospital her to practice. Now, so now me and Gayatri will also like to stay near our daughters here plus staying in Delhi I could hand over the responsibilities of RC Empire to Arnav as Titli’s husband which he should be taking over rightfully.”
Arnav looked at him surprised, said: “What…? No Uncle, I don’t want anything to do with Mishti’s family business, that is Ray, your and your family to handle.” looking at his friend for support.
Ryan smiled back in support of Rishi, adding his say: “Well true that it is ours to handle and Titli has her share in the business too… but are you crazy to even think of letting her run business…? And I am not saying Titli is incapable of running business, I know she can but if we make the laadli of the family work like that I am going to haunted by the ghosts of my full family. No Arnie, it is you who has to should the responsibilities of RC Empire now as Titli’s husband along with me… you are going to take the Managing Director-slash-CEO’s post.” knowing well that his friend could handle the responsibility.
Arnav’s widened as he shook his head: “Are you crazy?! No… nahi… nada, am not becoming MD or CEO of your business… Ray that is your position or Rudra Bhaiyya or Mishti, not me!”
Ryan replied: “Titli is fifty-one percent shareholder in RC Empire’s all of the businesses and companies, after she was born every business venture was on her name by everyone in my family. You have to understand Arnie, Khushi was the first girl child in my family after generations and only girl in the house, meaning she was pampered like anything by everyone… so obviously as her husband it is your responsibility to pamper her and shoulder her responsibilities. And one of them is handling RC Empires, let me make it clear that neither me or Rudra Dada have any problem with that…” as Arnav was going to protest which he didn’t let and instead continued, “Look I am happy with my law firm, handling legal aspect of RC Empires and overseeing the business as Rishi Uncle handled it over the years and now he wants to hand it over to you, am fine with it as I know how good of a businessman you’re. Rudra Dada is happy with his job in Police Force and wants nothing to with business and he knows about this, he has no objections either. So, you better agree to Arnie because one way or another you have to in the end.”
Arnav still trying to object, said: “Mishti are you listening to all this nonsense your brother is sprouting… tum samjhao na isse, it’s not possible…”
Khushi came out of her happy thoughts after hearing that her Ryan Dada, G-maa, Rishi and Maya were going to move Delhi… in fact just two houses down the lane, they will be near her after so many years. She looks at her husband, says: “Dada and Rishi are right, you have to take over the business in my place because I can’t and I have full faith in you to do your best… toh aap maan jao.” smiling at his stunted face and kissed his cheek, moving on easily, “It is so nice now Dada, G-maa, Rishi and Maya are moving so close to us… bahut maaza aayega, if only Moni-maa and Rudra Dada too shifted here.” her smile dimmed a little missing them.
He shook her, saying: “Mishti, what are you saying…? Instead of supporting me and making them understand, you are also going along with them.”
Maya said: “Jiju, just agree with what Papa and Ryan Dada are saying because really in the end you have to agree as they say, especially since your Mishti is in their side already.” smiling cheerfully at him.
Arnav looked at the smiling face of Maya, G-maa, Rishi Uncle and Ryan along with the sweet disarming smile his wife aimed at him, he knew he was gone. Signing in defeat said: “Fine I’ll do as you say but I have a condition…” watching all their faces, he says, “I will be only be present as acting body on behalf of Mishti, I don’t want any share or company or business or anything to be transferred in my name… all this is Mishti and Ryan’s family and that is how it will stay, okay…” serious about this one condition he put forth.
Rishi and Ryan smiled happily along with Maya and Gayatri while Khushi hugged her husband saying: “What is yours is mine and what is mine is yours, so technically all those already belongs to you anyway.” smiling at her sweet husband.
So, after that the discussion moved to both Khushi and Payal’s pag-phere as it was decided that both of them would be going to their Maayka and stay over-night, that their respective husband will pick them up next day evening. Obviously, Arnav didn’t like the thought of staying night away from his Mishti Biwi but had no chance of protesting, this had earning him jokes at his expense from Ryan while Maya too teased Khushi endlessly while Nani smilingly made plans of Mukhdikhai rasam along with a puja for the newly-wed couples.
After an hour Gupta’s left with Payal whom Mamiji was very happy to send away and the Mukherjee’s along with Ryan left with Khushi while Arnav pouted seeing her leave. But he had made sure to follow her upstairs when she had gone to their room to pack an overnight bag to take kisses from her and tell her just how much he was going to miss her. Though same can’t be said about Akash and Payal as when he tried to follow his wife, he was stopped by his hawk-eyed mother, so he could only sit there staring longingly. For Payal, she was happy at the prospect of going to her Maayka and have a little break from her mother-in-law and responsibilities as a Bahu and of her Saasural while Khushi was even though happy about spending time with her family, she was going to miss her husband… first time away from him after marriage, ah it was going to long painful separation.
.....
[NOTE: Hello lovelies, so am finally ‘Gustakh Dil...’ update is up... how was it...? I had so much fun writing Ryan’s character and honestly the only reason I choose Namik Paul is that I wanted to crack jokes on his height after watching some previous SBS interviews of his in YouTube, LOL. The scene of Ryan's entry and jokes his height are similar to a FF 'Chaahat' by Perwinkle_98, the similarities are co-incidental and not intentional but credit to her for writing those first... so yeah, you could totally read her story which is awesome too...
Now I have a question, how many of you want the Pag-phere stay of both Payal and Khushi in their respective Maayka while their respective husband miss them to be in next update... or do you want me to skip that and move on to Mukhdikhai Rasam, Post-marriage puja and Reception...? I have good ideas for both, so vote... I would love to know what you want... whatever has more votes will be the way next update’s basis, so don’t forget to tell me.
Will update MTB, DST and NBT soon... until next take care and don’t forget to like/vote and leave comments... and please comments be longer than ‘good’ or ‘nice chap’, I am sure you have more than that as opinion when you read the update and when you can type two words, am sure you can time more than that too...
So, take care and stay safe...
With love,
Kavya
#PS: @Swasaniarshi Thank you so much till now for posting my story on my behalf on Wattpad, now I want to post it myself as I have started to posting in Wattpad, so why not on-going once too... I hope you don’t mind.
#PPS: Should I keep Namik Paul as Ryan or change it to Shaheer Sheikh...? I am confused as I like Shaheer better and their is more scope of starting his love story since I don’t like anyone of the girls Namik has worked with.]
[NOTE: Bengali conversation is used, translation is given in (italics)]
Khushi too was silently sobbing on her husband’s shoulder remembering that night, she pleaded them all so much to not go but they had promised to come back soon and she had waited but they never came back. Arnav only caressed her hair trying to take some of the pain away, so much his Mishti had to endure at least when his parents died, he had familiar faces around but she was cut-off from everything she ever knew, his heart pained for her loss. Others had also moved into tears hearing the tragic loss of Khushi’s except for Buaji and Garima who looked stoic and like they really didn’t want to be here.
As everything was being said Garima Gupta was reminiscing everything from her perspective about those days. She didn’t really share a very close relationship with her sister who was 05 years younger than her and she recalls well how Kashish was their mother’s darling though she had no problem with that being more of daddy’s girl herself. Despite being sisters, they were poles apart where she was quiet, introvert, obedient and average student, Kashish was prankster, loud, childish and brilliant student and their mother had always dreams of Kashish either becomes a doctor or engineer. That wish became true also when Kashish got scholarship and went to Kolkata for studying architecture, then she came back and that day she told their father about the man she loved, hell had broken in their house.
Then the Raichoudhary family had come and taken her with them and she remembers how her father had raged about it saying that Kashish would only be used and the guy wouldn’t marry her, how her mother gave her father silent treatment. But then 10 days later it was all over T.V. channels and newspapers coverage over The Raichoudhary wedding and she remembers her mother watching news all day for the wedding. After that over the years her mother was in contact with her sister, watched all news about her or her in-law’s family and even her father silently followed the news to know about Kashish as he too had realized just how good of family and husband Kashish found for herself. He had gotten over his anger which was why he never stopped Amma but he remembered well enough about his behaviour and Aditya saying that Kashish can’t keep any relation with her father was only reason he never contacted outright… didn’t want to create unnecessary problems in his daughter’s marriage.
In this time Garima had gotten married to Sashi Gupta and where Kashish was living a high profile glamorous life with brilliant career, handsome loving husband and rich caring in-laws, she wasn’t having all that good in comparison. Sashi was a good husband and they lived comfortably but her in-laws were too conservative which made them make her lives more than little difficult plus knowing about Kashish’s love marriage they sometimes said little too harsh words. Then her daughter was born and she had to hear all disappointments of her in-laws though her husband was happy but he was never the one to stand up for her in front of his parents. And after few years Kashish had her daughter, she had seen the news coverage and how her mother use to tell about the Raichoudhary family celebrating the arrival of Khushi, that had made her so jealous as at Payal’s birth she had to listen so many criticisms.
First her mother then her father passed away within 02 years and though Kashish didn’t come for final rites, she had received both the news. Over the years after that only news channels or newspapers were her sources of knowing about Kashish’s life which had made her jealous of her getting everything and then suddenly Sashi’s sweet business had lot of losses and they were under huge debt. That year had been very difficult for the family especially with the expenses of her old sick mother-in-law and Madhumati had come to stay with them as her husband had suddenly passed away. Then one night they had received a phone call from Kolkata Police informing about Kashish and her family’s accident leaving behind little Khushi and as a minor’s closest blood relative they were being contacted for custody. The Gupta family had said no about bringing the little girl even Garima wasn’t in favour, the girl could go to orphanage for all she cares but Sashi being the soft-hearted didn’t want to abandon the child.
So, that was why Sashi and Garima had gone Kolkata to bring her sister’s only daughter and reaching there she was dumbstruck by the abandons that clearly showed just how wealthy Raichoudhary family was. And at that moment she was so very jealous that Kashish was living off in such luxuries while she was struggling, and they found that Khushi wasn’t as orphan as they thought, she had people who wanted to take care of her and Garima could have easily handed over the custody over to them. In fact, Sashi had wanted that only now assure that the child wasn’t alone but Garima had seen the benefit of taking Khushi in, if they took the girl than they’ll get heavy monthly allowances which would solve all their problems. And that was the reason Garima had brought Khushi with her and to not let anyone know that the allowance money would be mostly spent on them rather than the little girl, she made sure that none of the remaining Khushi’s family have contact with her anymore. And also, Garima’s jealousy over her sister’s daughter growing up in luxuries while her daughter would be brought up like pauper was something, she couldn’t handle… Why should Kashish and her daughter have all and Garima and her daughter will know only poverty…? No, Garima’s daughter will have everything she ever wanted and for that Kashish’s daughter has to live her life on compromise.
All these years that was what Garima had thought that those people have forgotten about Khushi but they were smarter to have secretly communication without letting anyone know all these years. And Garima felt foolish to have not been more observant about what was going in Khushi’s life because then she wouldn’t have missed it. Even Khushi has been clever by portraying herself in front of like they wanted but doing things her way behind their back careful to not let anyone know. Garima wouldn’t have tolerated Khushi if it wasn’t for the money as the girl had been more trouble for her, always steeling everyone’s attention like Kashish had. This was the reason she had even agreed to marry of the girl to Shyam knowing the man wasn’t that well-settled and something was clearly wrong with him. If Khushi had been married off to that man than she would have been off their backs and Payal could be married off to a well-settled family because always whatever proposals came once they saw Khushi, they wanted her as their babu. Even Abhishek’s family had been same, since they saw Khushi after the pre-wedding ritual they had played the give-us-dowry-or-change-bride card that was what broke the marriage which of course except for Sashi, Garima and Buaji no one knew.
Madhumati Mishra loved her niece, Payal like her own daughter as she doesn’t have any children of her own what with her husband being sick when he was alive and then passed away at a very young age. Now Buaji had never wanted Sashi to bring Khushi as she felt that it would reduce Payal’s share of things and she was right, ever since Khushi had come in their lives she had pushed Payal to side-lines with always attracting attention of everyone. That was the reason why she could never fully accept Khushi or be harsh on her at times, she had been so enthusiastic to get her off their backs by marrying her of to Shyam. That was the reason for convincing Khushi to not tell Raizada family about Shyam’s true colour for Payal’s sake as she didn’t want such a good proposal to be spoiled. When the proposal for Payal came from a rich family the Raizada’s she had been very happy even though the minor issue of Payal’s mother-in-law remained, she was sure her niece would live like a queen. But everything had to be ruined by Khushi marrying Arnav Singh Raizada and Buaji was well aware that Khushi as Arnav’s wife would hold more authority over the house than Payal as Akash’s wife. This was just another reason what made her be angry at Khushi, she always ruins things for Payal with merely her presence… it would have been better if she never came in their lives.
The reaction in others were varied as NK, Payal, Anjali, Lavanya and Mamiji had already moved into tears hearing about the tragic story and their heart went out for the little girl who had not only lost her family but everything she had known at mere age of 10. Mamaji and Akash also felt bad hearing about Khushi’s past through Shyam was thinking about something else that had more of his attention at moment. True it is sad that a family was wiped out in an accident but that wasn’t important at the moment, what had his attention was the fact Khushi’s real family seemed to be rich and at present only she was only heir to huge fortune and Shyam was sure that his Saale Saheb was aware of this… maybe this was the reason he married Khushi so hurriedly and could only curse himself for missed opportunity… If only Khushi hadn’t known the truth about him then he would have married to her and also gotten hold of her fortune but now all this will go to his Saale Saheb.
Nani’s heart also melted for Khushi; she couldn’t imagine how it would have been for a little girl to not only loose her most of the family but move from her home to some strangers in a strange place. She discreetly wiped her eyes and said: “Bahut bura hua jo hua par kismet pe kiska zor hai, hum sirf uske saath jee sakte hai jo hota hai aur zindigi mein aage bardh sakte hai. Toh ab Khushi Bitya ke parivaar mein kon kon hai, aap logo ke elawa…?” curious to know about surviving family. (Whatever happened was very sad but who has even been able to control destiny, we can only live with what happens and move on in out lives. So, now who all are there in Khushi Bitya’s family except you all…?)
Rishi answered: “Now there is Radha Didi, Khushi’s Bua or as calls her Moni-maa, then Radha Didi’s son, Rudraksh or Rudra as we call him. Rudra is an IPS officer and there is Ryan, Abhay Dada and Piya Boudi’s second son, he is a lawyer and Radha Didi had taken his responsibility after that accident with our support. She was staying at Raichoudhary house with the kids ever since as there are people around to help her if she needs and it was easier for us to also immediately reach as we are next door neighbours.” though his concerned eyes were on Khushi who was hiding in her husband’s embrace, “Titli you okay Beta…?” asked worriedly, not being able to help himself.
She didn’t reply instead snuggled more in Arnav’s embrace and Arnav replied: “She’s fine Uncle, main hoon na yaha apni Mishti ko sambhaalne ke liye aur ab aapko isse lekar koi cheenta karne ki zaroorat nahi hai.” assuring him with a slight smile as he kissed the top of his wife’s head going back to whispering sweet nothings to her to make her smile softly. (She’s fine Uncle, now I am here to take care of my Mishti and now you don’t need to be worried about her anymore.)
Rishi and Gayatri could only smile in satisfaction that their daughter was in safe hands, yes for them Titli was their second daughter and no one can say otherwise. Khushi pulled back from her husband’s embrace and he wiped her tears, without caring about audience placed kisses on her cheeks sweetly. She blushed but didn’t shy away, she could never shy away from her husband’s touch or affection and gave him a sweet shy smile in return which he reciprocated with a flirty smile of his own.
Khushi looked at the two people who took care of her as much as they could from afar, says: “Rishi, G-maa, thank you so much for everything you both did for me in all these years. If you both have wanted you could have so easily forgotten about me after the Gupta family took me in but you both were always there for me. Rishi made sure to visit me at least once a month and you both made sure to either take me with you guys or come to spent every vacation with me… you guys never forgot me. You both always looked after me like your own daughter, always been proud of all my achievements, scolded me when I was wrong, gave me strength when I was depressed or a shoulder to cry when I needed… You both did as much as possible for you to never let me feel the absence of my parents or family and for that I’ll forever be grateful to you both.” feeling teary and emotional again.
The Mukherjee couple looked at her affectionate smiles and Rishi said: “Oh, so now our Titli has grown up so much that she is saying thank you to her Rishi and G-maa… suna Gayatri, now Titli is behaving as if we are outsiders to her.” his face stern and bit angry.
Gayatri too says: “Haan dekha bhi aur suna bhi… biye hoyegache na tai akhon amar-a por hoyegachi.” with stern face. (Yes, I saw and heard also… now she is married that is why we are now outsiders for her.)
Khushi looked at them and said quickly: “Arre na ki bolcho tomara, por hote jabe kano tomara… Rishi! G-maa!” as both of them turned face away from her, she looked at her husband, “Arnav dekho na…” pouting knowing he’ll make everything right like always. (Oh no what are you saying, why would you be outsiders to me… Rishi! G-maa! Arnav see…)
Arnav side-hugged his wife and he knew they both were not actually angry, maybe little hurt by the words of her thinking she was actually thanking them for looking out for her as if she was an outsider to them. He smilingly says: “Uncle, G-maa, Mishti didn’t mean to hurt you or make you feel like she thought you anything less than her parents, she was just thanking you for all the unconditional love you gave her. Don’t we thank our parents for their love… it’s good to let know people we love and care about how much we appreciate them from time to time, please don’t get angry or hurt by her words.” requesting sweetly.
Now how could they both be angry after such sweet request from their son-in-law and both smiled at the pair. Gayatri says: “Theel hai Arnav Beta if you say so… and Titli don’t ever say things like that again, you are our daughter… you say things like that makes us feel like you don’t consider us your own.” said to Khushi.
Rishi said: “Adi and Kashish had left you in our care, I know if the situation was reversed then they would have taken care of our daughter like their own too. You haven’t grown up so much yet Titli that you’ll start thanking your Rishi and G-maa, ab kiya theek hai par dobaara kabhi maat karna.” hence saying that she was forgiven for now.
Happy at being forgiven Khushi excitedly hugged both of them and when she pulled back, to give a kiss on both their cheeks. She stepped back to sit beside her husband again but her eyes widened and she bit her tongue as she sank in her place muttering meekly: “Sorry…” which made everyone curious what happened.
Rishi and Gayatri were confused too but she noticed Khushi’s chocolate covered sticky fingers and looked at her husband’s suit jacket, laughing amused. He too looked down following his wife’s eyes and noticed a big chocolate stain on his jacket, signed exasperatedly: “Titli are you never going to change, again chocolate stain on my coat… how do you manage to do that every time and that too to me only..?” taking a wet-tissue from the table to try and wipe the stain off.
Others gave confused look at his words and laughing Gayatri replied: “Actually ever since Titli was kid and she has chocolate in her hands then she’ll definitely somehow manage to get Rishi’s clothes stained. Don’t know how it happens but it does every single time… even now…” laughing at her husband’s face and others too laughed a bit as the funny situation melted the earlier sadness.
Khushi looked apologetic: “Sorry Rishi, I didn’t do that deliberately… bas hogaya…” as she resumed eating her half-eaten chocolate.
Mamaji curiously asked: “Rishiji why does Khushi Bitya call you by your name…?” which others too wanted to know.
Rishi replied: “Because Titli’s father, grandfather and uncles called me by my name and she use to copy them, so by default she too calls me by my name only.” fondly looking at her, shaking his head at her childishness.
Akash questioned: “So, didn’t anyone ever correct her later or after she grew up…?”
Rishi answered: “Kashish and her Thami tried to but as I said Titli was very pampered.” never really minded that she calls him by his name.
Khushi asked: “You want me to call you Uncle, Rishi…?” making a face.
He shook his head, replied: “No, call me what you always do… you know I don’t like when you call me uncle.” as he knew she only does that when she was angry with him otherwise it is always his name she address him with.
Satisfied with the reply, she asked: “By the way, where is she…? Didn’t she too come with you guys…?” now finished with her chocolate, she folded the wrapper and kept on the empty teacup tray, wiping her hand with the wet-tissue.
Before anyone can reply the doorbell rang and they saw HP went to open the door, then they all saw a blur of red came inside running, screaming: “Kukoooo…!”
Khushi too jumped up from her place and went running, screaming: “Candy…!” as she hugged the red blur which actually was a girl of her age. Both were hugging each other tightly as she said, “I missed you so much my Candy!” then pulled back from the bone-crushing hug with a huge smile.
Others were watching the two girls with varied expression which consisted of Arnav, Rishi and Gayatri with fond smile while others were confused with the newcomer. They all made way towards them and saw a beautiful young girl in red dress with long light brown curly hair standing beside Khushi smiling, replied: “I missed you too my Kukoo…”
 |
| MAYA MUKHERJEE |
Nani asked out loud: “Khushi Bitya yeh kon hai…?” making both the girls to turn around and look at them. (Khushi Bitya who is this…?)
Khushi smilingly replied: “This is Dr. Maya Mukherjee, Rishi and G-maa’s only daughter and my Best Friend Forever-slash-sister.” doing the introductions.
Maya smiled at everyone sweetly, said: “Hello everyone…” then she went forward to hug her parents happily. Then moved towards Arnav, saying, “Jijaji… my one and only sweet Jiju… the one who stole my Kukoo's heart, finally I got the chance to meet you.” as she hugged him smiling.
He smiled hugging her back, said: “My sweet sweet, one and only Saali Sahiba, it is pleasure to meet you too finally. So, why didn’t you arrive with your parents…? Did you travel alone…? As far as I know you haven’t been to Delhi before, you should have called me than I would have made arrangements.” pulling back inquired concerned.
Khushi smiled at her husband’s caring nature towards her BFF-slash-sister as she side hugged him wanting herself to know why Maya arrived separately. Maya smiled at her Jiju’s concern, replied: “I had to visit the hospital once I will be joining tomorrow, so I had gone there straight from airport. And chill Jiju I wasn’t along, mere saath toh Ry--” bit her tongue as if she wasn’t supposed to say that but quickly went to covering up, “I meant I had a friend with me.” giving a nervous smile.
Khushi looked at her BFF suspiciously while Arnav raised a brow questioningly in his signature ASR style making Maya fidgeting even more under their scrutiny and nervously glanced behind her but quickly looked away. But nothing missed ASR’s sharp eyes and he had followed her gaze, his eyes widened noticing someone hiding behind the pillar then smirked as he said: “Oh Mr. Qutub Minar, pillar ke peeche se bahar nikalo, tumhare samane pillar bhi chota lag raha hai…” looking sarcastically in that direction which others too followed hearing his remark. (Oh Mr. Qutub Minar, come out from behind the pillar, in front of you that pillar also looks small…)
Then from behind the pillar came a tall handsome man in late twenties, smiling sheepishly at them, said: “Hello everyone…” then looked at Arnav and Khushi, “Hi Titli… Hi Arnie… ah surprise…” lamely towards them.
Khushi simply stared at him shocked while Arnav rolled his eyes, asked: “Care to explain how come you are here when at this moment you were supposed to be in Massachusetts at this time… or that was what you had told us yesterday morning when we called you…?” raising a brow in questioningly while the Raizada family was confused with his behaviour as if he knew this person.
He smiled nervously at being caught red-handed, replied: “Actually I was trying to give you guys surprise, yesterday after your call I had my return flight to India… I just didn’t tell you guys and what is with this interrogation, aise welcome karte hai kya…?” trying to get himself off the hook.
That seemed to be enough to break Khushi from her shocked state and she jumped screaming: “Dada!!!” running to hug him tightly much to most of the audiences’ surprise.
He smilingly hugged her back, equally tight and lifting her off the ground as he soon felt tears soaking him which made him put her back and pull back from the hug. He wiped her tears, said: “Aye dehko kanna-kati kore… Titli kande na… Oye kanna thama na hole tor bor amake are tor saathe dekha korte debe na jodi tui amon kore kanna korish amake dekhe sob somoye.” wiping her tears as he joked to make her stop. (Arre see started crying… Titli don’t cry… Oye stop crying or else your husband won’t let me see you again if you keep crying seeing me every time.)
She tightly clutched his hand on her face and pressed her lips to stop sobbing, then said: “Amar bor amon korbe na *sob sob* sudhu sudhu or bepare *sob* ulto-palta bolo na *sob*… I missed you so much Dada-bhai…” getting all emotional again. (My husband would never do that *sob sob* don’t say nonsense *sob* about him *sob*… I missed you much Bhaiyya…)
His smile also got little wobbly as he replied: “Bujhlam, akhon tor bor-er bepare kichu bola jabe na toh… I missed you too Doll… so much…” then to lighten up, he said, “Acha aye baar toke theek kore dekhte de…” looking at her from head to toe, “Wah ekdom ginni-banni hoyegechis saree-sindoor pore, ki sundor lagche toke… Ebar bol toh tor bor toke theek kore dekhe na class nite hobe…?” teasing her knowing well enough just how doting her husband is. (Understood, now can’t say anything about your husband right… I missed you too Doll… so much… Now me look at you properly… Wow you look so married wearing saree and all, you’re looking so beautiful… Now tell me is your husband taking good care of you or do I have to take his class…?)
Khushi blushed at the teasing, tears forgotten now and replied: “Or theke bhalo bor are hoyena… khoob bhalobase amaye…” with a shy smile glanced back at her husband and then looked back at her brother. (There is no better husband than him… he loves me so much…)
Arnav stepped in, saying: “Okay enough of your reunion… and please stop talking in Bengali when most of us don’t understand what both are talking about though I know this Mr. Qutub Minar was talking something about me.” standing beside the duo and giving him a knowing-look.
He rolled his eyes, retorting back: “How many times do I have to tell you not to call me that, we both are of same height and if I’m Qutub Minar then you’re no less than Mr. Eiffel Tower.” sounding quite childish.
Arnav rolled his eyes, saying: “Whatever at least being tall is in my family, I mean look at Akash… agreed he is shorter than me by two inches but at least he is 6’1. And look at you, I think you have grown few more inches since last time I saw you on my wedding day… if you keep growing like this than you won’t find a girl to marry you, as is it is that is going to be a hard task with your absurd height.” pulling his leg smirking at him.
He glared at him, said: “Titli apne pati ko chup karne bol…” said to Khushi. (Titli ask your husband to shut up…)
But Arnav was faster to reply: “Usse kya bol raha hai, mujhse baat kar Mr. Qutub Minar.” giving a superior look crossing his arms over his chest. (Why are you saying to her, talk to me Mr. Qutub Minar.)
He gritted his teeth saying: “Just because tu mere behan ka pati hai main kuch bol nahi raha but don’t test my patience.” and continued glaring at him. (Just because you are my sister’s husband, I am not saying anything but don’t test my patience.)
While the others were watching the exchange between the two with fascination as the Raizada family couldn’t understand how did Arnav know this man and what was actually going between them. ASR smirked said: “Oh, am so scared by your threats… Saale sach mein mera Saala bane se pehle se janta hoon tujhe aur tere mere beech yeh controlling temper aur itna respect kab se shuru hogaya…” tilting his head a little gave him a look. (Oh, am so scared by your threats… Saale before really becoming my Brother-in-law I know you and since when did controlling temper and so much respect started between us…)
He shook his head chuckling mildly as he went forward and give him a bro-hug, said: “Kaminey tu kabhi nahi sudhrega, haina Arnie.” pulled back patting his back. (Bastard you’re never going to change, right Arnie.)
Arnav gave a lopsided grin replied: “Saale sudhra toh tu bhi nahi hai, Ray.” and punched him on the stomach. (Jerk even you haven’t changed, Ray.)
He winched, said: “Ouch! Oye mar kyun raha hai…?” rubbing the place he was hit and turning to Khushi says, “Dekh Titli tera pati kitna violent ho raha hai, tere bhai ko mar raha hai…” complaining to her playfully. (Ouch! Oye why are you hitting me…? See Titli your husband is turning violent; he is hitting your brother now…)
Arnav punched him again, says: “Oye tu usse kya complain kar raha hai… aur tujhe toh aur maar pardhni chahiye, pata hai kal kitna upset hogai thi meri Mishti tere call ke baad jab tune usse kaha ki tujhe wapas aane mein aur bhi dus din lagenge. Aur aaj bhi meri Mishti ko rula diya tune, Saale Saheb tumhe toh mujhse maar hi milni chahiye.” and went to pull his ear while Khushi only giggled seeing her husband and brother bickering. (Oye why are you complaining to her… and you should get beaten by me, so you know how upset my Mishti got after yesterday’s call from you when you told her that it will take ten more days for you to return. And even today you make my Mishti cry, Saale Saheb you only deserve to get beaten by me.)
He winched trying to free his poor ear but that only got his ear to be twisted even more harder, said: “Ahhh! Oye chod mera bechare kan ko Arnie… Kyun mere pyaare cute kan ko haathi ke kan bana raha hai… Titli tujhe bahut hasee aa rahi hai, apne pati ko bol na mere kan chor de… Ow ow ow! Bachao koi mujhe… Ow ow ow!” pleading his sister to rescue him. (Ahhh! Oye leave my poor ear Arnie… Why are you turning my cute ear into elephant ear… Titli why are you laughing, ask your husband to leave my ear… Ow ow ow! Help me someone… Ow ow ow!)
Khushi giggled replying: “Yeh aap dono Jeeja aur Saale ke beech ka mamla hai, hum kuch nahi bolne wale… Aur sahi hai, hum toh aapke kan khech nahi sakte aur aapne kal hume bahut udas kiya… uske liye aapko punishment milna chachiye.” as she clearly back off from providing any help. (This matter is between you Brother-in-laws, I am not getting in-between… And you deserve it, I can’t pull your ear and yesterday you made me very sad… you should get punished for that.)
Maya too giggles commenting: “Yeh acha hai, shaadi ko dus din bhi nahi hue aur abhi se Khushi Jiju ki Mishti hogai hai.” teasing her friend as she wiggled her eyebrows at her getting a blush in return. (This is nice, it is not even ten days they’re married and from now only Khushi has become Jiju’s Mishti.)
Unable to help anymore, Manorama Raizada question: “Arnav Bitwa who ijj this jiska tum earwa pull karat ho…? Hello hi bye-bye!” batting her heavily painted eyelashes. (Arnav Bitwa who is this you are pulling ear of…? Hello hi bye-bye!)
Arnav casually replied: “Yeh hai Mr. Ryan Raichoudhary, Mishti ka Bhai aur mera dusra best friend.” still twisting his best friend’s ear. (This is Mr. Ryan Raichoudhary, Mishti’s brother and my second-best friend.)
Almost everyone was shocked by the introduction and that wasn’t because he was Khushi’s brother… no it was because he was Arnav’s best friend and they only knew about being Aman his best friend… ah, more like only friend. No one had any idea that how could Arnav possibly have known Ryan from, let alone knowing about being best friends, it was really very unexpected and shocking as they watched the scene unfold in front of them with even more fascination.
Ryan continued to try freeing his ear, said: “Ow! Arnie yaar mera kan chor, dekh itna kan khechega toh sach mein haathi ka kan hojayega… Kyun kar raha hai aisa bhai, do-chaar aur punch mar le par mera kan chor… Titli bol na apne pati ko mera kan chorne… Rishi Uncle, G-maa aap bolo na isko mera kan chorne... Aap sabko bahut hasee aa rahi hai par mujhe dard ho raha hai, bachao koi… Ow ow ow!” winching in pain and pouted unable to rescue his ear from getting abuse. (Ow! Arnie yaar leave my ear, see if you keep pulling my ear like this it will really turn elephant ear… Why are you doing this brother, punch me few times more but leave my ear… Titli ask your husband to leave my ear… Rishi Uncle, G-maa please ask him to leave my ear… All of you are laughing but I am in pain, help me… Ow ow ow!)
Khushi stopped giggling, seeing her brother really in pain and says: “Arnav bas hogaya punishment, please Dada ko chordo… dekho unko dard ho raha hai, please chordo ab…” pleading cutely and almost tearing up, on the verge of crying. (Arnav enough punishment, please leave Bhaiyya now… see it is hurting him, please leave now…)
Being the obedient husband that Arnav Singh Raizada is, left Ryan’s ear, saying: “Mishti ne bola toh tujhe chor raha hoon par dobara usko kal ki tarah upset mat karna… agar kiya na toh pakka tere kan ko haathi ke kan bana dunga, samjhe Saale Saheb…?” giving his warning though his tone was playful but eyes promised seriousness. (I am leaving you because Mishti is saying but don’t ever make her upset like yesterday… if you did then I’ll definitely make your ears like elephant ears, understood Saale Saheb…?)
Ryan was rubbing his poor abused ear, replied: “Agar tu meri behan se itna pyaar nahi karta na toh pakka tujhe nahi chor ta iske liye ya mujhe dhamkane ke liye. Par acha laga yeh dekh kar ki meri chotti behan ke pass itna pyaar karne wala koi hai jo uske mathay ki ek shikan ki har wajah se lardhne ko tayar hai, chahe who uska bhai hi kyun na ho.” (If didn’t love my sister so much and threatened me for her than surely, I wouldn’t have let you go for this or threatening me. But am happy that my baby sister has such a loving man who is ready fight any reason that dared to make her frown, even if that is her own brother also.)
Khushi was already beside her brother and pulled him with her towards the sitting area and made him sit as she inspected his abused ear concerned seeing as his ear has turned red. Others had followed the duo and taken seat as they watched them while she fretted, saying: “Your ear has turned red, it is paining too much Dada…? I’ll go bring First-aid…” as she turns to leave only to be pulled back by her brother holding her wrist to stop her.
Ryan smiled at her, said: “Titli am fine, I don’t need First-aid or anything… Now come and sit here beside me, I’m seeing you after so many days… even if I saw you on your wedding day, we didn’t get to talk properly…” as he pulled her to sit beside him and Arnav had taken the other side to sit, making her to be in-between them.
She asked again concerned: “Are you sure Dada…? You’re not hiding so that I don’t get too worried, right…?” wanting to make sure.
He smiled assuring her: “Yes Titli I’m fine… now you tell me, are you okay, right…? No problem or anyone that I need to take care of…?”
She smilingly replied: “Everything is fine Dada, and how can anything be wrong when Arnav is here… bahut khayal rahte hai humara.” turning give a sweet smile to her husband who just kissed the side of her head in response.
Ryan smiled as he knew his best friend well enough to know that his sister is in safe hands but he also knew the problem his best friend’s family had with his sister, especially his best friend’s Di. NK comments: “Khushiji I must say aapka Bhai bahut khamba hai… he is so tall which makes me feel so small.” making everyone gape at him while Arnav crackled in laughter and Ryan fumed, pouting angrily.
Khushi suppressed her laugh, said: “Nanheji, khamba nahi lamba… khamba means pole, lamba means tall.” but giggled at her brother’s plight as she knew he hated the jokes always made about his height.
Arnav said between his laughter: “Oh! NK for the first time your messed-up word also made sense… He is totally a khamba…” bursting in another round loud laughter.
Ryan made a face, saying: “Ha ha bloody ha… so funny that I am dying laughing…” but his friend didn’t stop as others were also laughing now, annoyed, “Shut up everyone! And what are you laughing about Arnie, if I am khamba than so are you as we’re both the same height… so you also make NK feel small… stop laughing Arnie!” getting irritated with his best friend.
Arnav answered controlling his laugh: “I make NK feel small all the time and that is just not only with my height, so he hardly notices it. But you Ray, totally different matter, your height is factor here, Mr. Qutub Minar…” teasing him.
Ryan makes a face at that comment and was going to retort but their bickering was interrupted by curious family members. Mamiji asked: “Hello Hi Bye-bye! Arnav Bitwa tell ujj haaw do you know Khushi’s brotherwa…? Humko toh tumhari Aman Bitwa elawa kono Fraaand hai bataya nahi… Bonder bhy? Inbestigation karegi padi!” in typical Mamorama Bond style while others were also curious about this. (Hello Hi Bye-bye! Arnav Bitwa you never told us about how you know Khushi’s brother…? You never said anything about your any other friend except Aman Bitwa… Wonder why? Have to do investigation!)
Arnav looked at her curious face and replied casually: “I know Ryan since school days after Di and me came to Delhi to stay with you here, Aman and Ryan were both in my class. Ryan too had just joined school and was living in school hostel while his family was in Kolkata, that time the accident didn’t happen because that happened after a year of him being in boarding, we were 15 I remember. Somehow, they both had recruited themselves as my friends and won’t leave me alone or stop pestering me, no matter how rude or silent treatment I gave them. After a while I kind of accepted that they weren’t going anywhere and since then we were three musketeers… Both of them are had stuck to by my side through thick and thin, yaha tak ki mere peeche peeche Harvard bhi aagaye, Aman with partial-scholarship and Ryan instead of going Oxford for his LLB, changed plans to followed me to Cambridge.” with a fond smile for the two idiots who took upon themselves to look out for him.
Ryan spoke: “Toh aur kya karte, tu toh apna dhayan bilkul nahi rakhta hai agar hum tere peeche peeche Harvard nahi jaate toh pata nahi kya haal bana leta apna. Aur tune sirf yeh bataya jo hume kiya, uska ka kya jo tune humare liye kiya…? Aman had serious family problems, it was only because of us as his friends that life mein kuch ban gaya, especially you have been his motivation to make something out of himself. Aur jab meri family uss accident mein guzar gai aur Titli ko zabardasti Lucknow lekar chale gaye, tune aur Aman ne milkar mujhe sambhala…tum dono nahi hote toh na jane kya karta main. So, the point is hum teeno ko ek dusre ki zaroorat thi as friends to help each other and we did that by still sticking together as friends, samjha Arnie.” giving his friend a smile. (What else could we have done; you don’t take care of yourself at all and if we hadn’t followed you to Harvard than who knows what you would have done to yourself. And you only told them about what we did for you, what about all the things you did for us…? Aman had serious family problems, it was only because of us as his friends that life that he made something out of himself, especially you have been his motivation to make something out of himself. And when my family passed away in that accident and Titli was forcibly taken to Lucknow, it was you and Aman who had looked after me… if it weren’t for you two, I don’t know what I would have done. So, the point is that the three of us needed each other as friends to help each other and we did that by still sticking together as friends, understood Arnie.)
Arnav returned the smile while Khushi gazed at both her husband and brother, happy with the bond they shared and that they both had each other at the low points of life when they truly needed a friend. It was Akash who asked: “Toh Bhai aapko pata tha ki Khushiji aapke dost ki behan hai…?” wondering when his brother discovered that and how. (So, Bhai you knew that Khushiji is your friend’s sister…?)
Arnav looked at him and said: “Bhabhi…”
Akash blinked perplexed: “Huh…?” clearly not understanding.
He rolled his eyes, saying: “Khushiji nahi, Khushi Bhabhi bolo… I was waiting how long it will take you and NK both to realize that but it doesn’t seem to happening any time soon. So, I am telling you both myself, from now on address her properly and I better not hear you both calling her Khushiji instead of Khushi Bhabhi, clear…?” raising a brow at them in business-like manner. Poor Akash and NK, what can they do other than nodding their heads in affirmation in front of mighty ASR, then he continued to reply the earlier question, “And no, I had no idea that Mishti was Ryan’s sister because if I had known that then I wouldn’t have troubled her so much. Woh toh shaadi ke din jab maine Aman aur Ryan ko mandir mein bulaya tha toh pata chala, it was pure luck that Ray was also in Delhi that day and was able to come.”
Ryan adds his two cents: “Yep it was coincidental that I was in Delhi for a case hearing in Supreme Court that day and my flight that night for Massachusetts got postponed to next day. Jab Arnie ne mujhe yeh call kiya yeh bolke ki mandir aa jao aur saath mein marriage register ko bhi lekar aaye, toh Aman aur main pooch gaye waha marriage register ke saath. Now imagine my surprise jab mujhe pata chala ki Arnie na sirf shaadi kar raha hai balki jis lardki se kar raha hai woh meri behan hai, jab ki mujhe koi andaza bhi nahi tha ki yeh dono ek dusre ko jaante bhi hai khaas karke jab jaane ki koi wajah nahi thi. Uss din mujhe pata chala ki jis Laad Governor ke baare mein Titli pura time complain karti thi woh Arnav Singh Raizada hai… vase mujhe phele hi samjh jaana chahiye tha Titli ki baato se ki uska Laad Governor kon hai, after all pure Delhi mein ek hi toh itna khardoos, akdoo, sadu hai. I don’t know what was more shocking to me, Arnie ki shaadi ya Titli se Arnie ki shaadi aur woh gadha Aman, usse toh bahut hasee aa rahi thi waha kharde kharde. Phir uss raat maine aur Aman ne milkar in dono ki shaadi karwai… shayad bhagwan ki marzi thi iss liye uss din main Delhi mein tha aur mujhe apni behan ko dulhan ke roop mein dekhne aur uska kanyadaan karne ka moka mila. Aur bhale hi yeh ek surprise tha jo maine expect nahi kiya tha par isse acha surprise nahi mil sakta tha, after all meri chotti si Titli ko mere dost Arnie se acha pati mil hi nahi sakta.” as he told the family and side hugged his sister. (Yep it was coincidental that I was in Delhi for a case hearing in Supreme Court that day and my flight that night for Massachusetts got postponed to next day. When Arnie called me asking to come to temple and to bring a marriage register along, so when Aman and I reached with a marriage register there. Now imagine my surprise to find that not only Arnie was marrying someone but that girl turns out be my sister, I had no idea that they both even knew each other in first place especially since they had no reason to. That day I realized that the Laad Governor she used to complain about all the time was Arnav Singh Raizada… but I should have realized that earlier from Titli’s words who her Laad Governor was, after all in whole Delhi there is only one such rude, arrogant, snobbish person. I don’t know what was more shocking to me, Arnie getting married or Titli getting married to Arnie and that idiot Aman was just laughing standing there. Then that night Aman and I both got their marriage conducted… maybe it was God’s will that I was in present in Delhi and got to see my sister as bride and was able to do her kanyadaan. And even if it was a surprise that I didn’t expect but I couldn’t have gotten better surprise than that, after all I know that my little Titli couldn’t have found a better husband than my friend Arnie.)
Khushi looked at her brother with teary smile, said: “Thank you Dada, you are the best…” for his unconditional support he gave to her relationship with Arnav.
Ryan smiled back at her and says: “I know… but you should probably better know this that Rudra Dada is very angry about having missed your wedding. Ghar chalo ek baar tumhe Bade Bhaiyya tumhare pati ki class lenge…” joked trying to lighten up.
Arnav smirked at his friend asked: “Tu meri chor, main apna sambhal lunga kuch bhi karke... Tu yeh baata ki teri class le tere Bade Bhaiyya ne…?” pulling his leg. (You leave about me, I’ll manage myself somehow... You tell me that did you Big Brother take you class...?)
He made a face replying: “Bade Dada ne toh pure saath ghante ka lecture sunaya Skype call mein, ab tak ghar nahi gaya unke darr se… samne mila na toh pakka maarenge mujhe.” pouting at his situation. (Bade Bhaiyya had lectured me for full seven hours in Skype call, I haven’t even gone home because of him… if I am in front of him, am sure he is going to beat me.)
Gayatri adds: “Marna toh hume bhi chahiye tumhe, akhir kar hum sabne Titli ki shaadi miss ki siwaye tumhare.” while her husband and daughter nodded in agreement. (Even we should also hit you, after all we all missed Titli’s wedding except you.)
Ryan whined, saying: “G-maa… yaar aap sab mujh bechare ko kyun marna chahte ho, bolna hai toh Arnie aur Titli ko bolo after all shaadi in dono ne ki hai, main toh ittefaq se waha tha warna main bhi miss kar jata aap logo ki tarah.” trying to defend himself. (G-maa… yaar why are you all after want to hit poor me, if you want to say something than say to Arnie and Titli after all they are the once to have gotten married, I was present there co-incidentally otherwise I would have also missed like you guys.)
Rishi replied giving him a look: “My little Titli never gets scolding from anyone in the family and Arnav is our Titli’s husband, humara acha pyaar Damad… so why would we say anything to them… No, all scolding you have to take upon yourself, Ryan.” teasing him which made Ryan pout while others laugh.
The Raizada family had nice time mingling and knowing more about Khushi’s family though the Gupta family remained mainly silent spectators watching everything. Lavanya, Anjali and Shyam were more interested to find about Khushi’s past and anything that can be used to kick her out of the house but they made sure to conceal their intentions.
After a while, Rishi asked: “Naniji we wanted your permission to take Titli with us for her pag-phere rasam.”
Nani smilingly replied: “Sure Rishi Bitwa, you can take Khushi Bitya for Pag-phere after all she is your daughter… but where are you all staying…?” inquiring about their staying arrangements.
Rishi answered: “Actually, we had bought the Mansion two houses further in this lane and we are shifting here, seeing as Ryan is mostly in Delhi for his practice and to stay near Titli while Maya also got a good job in a hospital her to practice. Now, so now me and Gayatri will also like to stay near our daughters here plus staying in Delhi I could hand over the responsibilities of RC Empire to Arnav as Titli’s husband which he should be taking over rightfully.”
Arnav looked at him surprised, said: “What…? No Uncle, I don’t want anything to do with Mishti’s family business, that is Ray, your and your family to handle.” looking at his friend for support.
Ryan smiled back in support of Rishi, adding his say: “Well true that it is ours to handle and Titli has her share in the business too… but are you crazy to even think of letting her run business…? And I am not saying Titli is incapable of running business, I know she can but if we make the laadli of the family work like that I am going to haunted by the ghosts of my full family. No Arnie, it is you who has to should the responsibilities of RC Empire now as Titli’s husband along with me… you are going to take the Managing Director-slash-CEO’s post.” knowing well that his friend could handle the responsibility.
Arnav’s widened as he shook his head: “Are you crazy?! No… nahi… nada, am not becoming MD or CEO of your business… Ray that is your position or Rudra Bhaiyya or Mishti, not me!”
Ryan replied: “Titli is fifty-one percent shareholder in RC Empire’s all of the businesses and companies, after she was born every business venture was on her name by everyone in my family. You have to understand Arnie, Khushi was the first girl child in my family after generations and only girl in the house, meaning she was pampered like anything by everyone… so obviously as her husband it is your responsibility to pamper her and shoulder her responsibilities. And one of them is handling RC Empires, let me make it clear that neither me or Rudra Dada have any problem with that…” as Arnav was going to protest which he didn’t let and instead continued, “Look I am happy with my law firm, handling legal aspect of RC Empires and overseeing the business as Rishi Uncle handled it over the years and now he wants to hand it over to you, am fine with it as I know how good of a businessman you’re. Rudra Dada is happy with his job in Police Force and wants nothing to with business and he knows about this, he has no objections either. So, you better agree to Arnie because one way or another you have to in the end.”
Arnav still trying to object, said: “Mishti are you listening to all this nonsense your brother is sprouting… tum samjhao na isse, it’s not possible…”
Khushi came out of her happy thoughts after hearing that her Ryan Dada, G-maa, Rishi and Maya were going to move Delhi… in fact just two houses down the lane, they will be near her after so many years. She looks at her husband, says: “Dada and Rishi are right, you have to take over the business in my place because I can’t and I have full faith in you to do your best… toh aap maan jao.” smiling at his stunted face and kissed his cheek, moving on easily, “It is so nice now Dada, G-maa, Rishi and Maya are moving so close to us… bahut maaza aayega, if only Moni-maa and Rudra Dada too shifted here.” her smile dimmed a little missing them.
He shook her, saying: “Mishti, what are you saying…? Instead of supporting me and making them understand, you are also going along with them.”
Maya said: “Jiju, just agree with what Papa and Ryan Dada are saying because really in the end you have to agree as they say, especially since your Mishti is in their side already.” smiling cheerfully at him.
Arnav looked at the smiling face of Maya, G-maa, Rishi Uncle and Ryan along with the sweet disarming smile his wife aimed at him, he knew he was gone. Signing in defeat said: “Fine I’ll do as you say but I have a condition…” watching all their faces, he says, “I will be only be present as acting body on behalf of Mishti, I don’t want any share or company or business or anything to be transferred in my name… all this is Mishti and Ryan’s family and that is how it will stay, okay…” serious about this one condition he put forth.
Rishi and Ryan smiled happily along with Maya and Gayatri while Khushi hugged her husband saying: “What is yours is mine and what is mine is yours, so technically all those already belongs to you anyway.” smiling at her sweet husband.
So, after that the discussion moved to both Khushi and Payal’s pag-phere as it was decided that both of them would be going to their Maayka and stay over-night, that their respective husband will pick them up next day evening. Obviously, Arnav didn’t like the thought of staying night away from his Mishti Biwi but had no chance of protesting, this had earning him jokes at his expense from Ryan while Maya too teased Khushi endlessly while Nani smilingly made plans of Mukhdikhai rasam along with a puja for the newly-wed couples.
After an hour Gupta’s left with Payal whom Mamiji was very happy to send away and the Mukherjee’s along with Ryan left with Khushi while Arnav pouted seeing her leave. But he had made sure to follow her upstairs when she had gone to their room to pack an overnight bag to take kisses from her and tell her just how much he was going to miss her. Though same can’t be said about Akash and Payal as when he tried to follow his wife, he was stopped by his hawk-eyed mother, so he could only sit there staring longingly. For Payal, she was happy at the prospect of going to her Maayka and have a little break from her mother-in-law and responsibilities as a Bahu and of her Saasural while Khushi was even though happy about spending time with her family, she was going to miss her husband… first time away from him after marriage, ah it was going to long painful separation.
.....
[NOTE: Hello lovelies, so am finally ‘Gustakh Dil...’ update is up... how was it...? I had so much fun writing Ryan’s character and honestly the only reason I choose Namik Paul is that I wanted to crack jokes on his height after watching some previous SBS interviews of his in YouTube, LOL. The scene of Ryan's entry and jokes his height are similar to a FF 'Chaahat' by Perwinkle_98, the similarities are co-incidental and not intentional but credit to her for writing those first... so yeah, you could totally read her story which is awesome too...
Now I have a question, how many of you want the Pag-phere stay of both Payal and Khushi in their respective Maayka while their respective husband miss them to be in next update... or do you want me to skip that and move on to Mukhdikhai Rasam, Post-marriage puja and Reception...? I have good ideas for both, so vote... I would love to know what you want... whatever has more votes will be the way next update’s basis, so don’t forget to tell me.
Will update MTB, DST and NBT soon... until next take care and don’t forget to like/vote and leave comments... and please comments be longer than ‘good’ or ‘nice chap’, I am sure you have more than that as opinion when you read the update and when you can type two words, am sure you can time more than that too...
So, take care and stay safe...
With love,
Kavya
#PS: @Swasaniarshi Thank you so much till now for posting my story on my behalf on Wattpad, now I want to post it myself as I have started to posting in Wattpad, so why not on-going once too... I hope you don’t mind.
#PPS: Should I keep Namik Paul as Ryan or change it to Shaheer Sheikh...? I am confused as I like Shaheer better and their is more scope of starting his love story since I don’t like anyone of the girls Namik has worked with.]
That was very nice.
ReplyDeleteLove to read pag-phere rasam only if arnav sneak in to khushi room in night and do some mushy mushy things since her house is just two block away from his. And later in morning everyone gets to know. 😉
ReplyDeleteI binged on this book yesterday and am so happy to find this new update.Just love how you build the plot.
ReplyDeleteI would love to see how Arnav and Khushi miss each other.
I just love it.
ReplyDeletenice update, i like this care free arnav and khushi and also khushi's whole family. waiting for the updates till then i can keep on reading your stories again. i like it always. By the way when are u planning to update Pyaar tune kya kiya ?
ReplyDeleteand sry to poke for updates but kya kre contorl ni hota :p
Hi dear, it was wonderful to read this update. I m someone who normally doesn't watch serials. Ipkknd is always my favourite. Normally I used to think what if khushi had family or if she was rich. Will she be taken for granted. You have answered my feelings through this story. It is so good to see the live she gets from her family
ReplyDeleteI really wish shyam, anjali and lavanya rub her negatively and face their anger. Expecting to see her brother rudra during muh dekaye. and lavanya burn with jealousy on seeing things khushi gets. Love the way the story progresses.
Skip the pag phere and go to next ritual
ReplyDeleteThe convo btween arnav and rayan is so typical like pratically frnds r like that only i liked it very much as of me can u plz write abt both rasam 😜😜😜
ReplyDeleteSuperb update Pls update dst and MTB iam waiting eagerly for that chappy's Pls dear
ReplyDeleteLove the story. Stumbled across this blog and read all the story in one go. You are a brilliant writer.
ReplyDeleteLovely update love it
ReplyDeleteWould love to read pag phera, but only if Arnav gets a sleepless night, either due to going sick because of no wifey or because he was very busy the whole night with wifey :P .. also plz plz plzzzz update DST and PTKK, especially PTKK.. of all the arshi FFS that I've read till now, I can honestly say that ptkk is the best one.. I cannot remember how many times I've read that FF till now.. I love the characterisation of Arnav and the love he gets from everyone.. plz plz plzzzz update ptkk or if possible , give us a time by when you'll be updating that one.. I'm eagerly waiting for that one..
ReplyDeleteThank you, PTKK is under huge re-construction... it will take a month or two before I can update as I'll finish writing the full story and than start updating it..
DeleteMe too 🙈
DeleteHi kavya
ReplyDeleteFirst would like to tell you that you are an amazing writer. I just love ur writing style.
I have read all ur stories at least twice or thrice may be even more😉
Loved chapter of GD
I am eagerly waiting for more updated from u specially PTKK
Its my favourite...pleasr ipdate soon and stay safe😊
Awesome and fabulous ff. Please continue
ReplyDeleteloved all the chapters
ReplyDeleteIf you could have a cumulative of all in one chapter that would be nice and can you introduce khusKh parentsge n marriage to media.loved the bonding.awesome chapter
ReplyDelete