ARSHI FF: Gustakh Dil... (Stubborn Heart)

CHAPTER 24: Sarvagun Sampanna

[DISCLAIMER: Guys the traditional Puja in this chapter is purely fictional – so if it is similar to anyone’s family traditions it’s purely a coincidence. It is by no means intentional to anyone.]












SHANTIVAN, DELHI – 08:00 A.M.









Arnav nuzzled his face deeper in his pillow as he moved his hand to pull his wife closer to snuggle but he couldn’t find her and popped open one eye to see her side empty. He blinked a few times before sitting up, glancing at the bedside table to see the time and look around the room while trying to wake his mind up. It took him another five minutes to remember that today there was a puja in home along with relatives coming and he was pretty sure his wife was up and running already to make sure all arrangements were perfect. He pushed off the covers and went to bathroom taking his towel to shower and get ready for the day so he could go downstairs to see what his wife was up to though he pouted at not getting his wake-up kisses and thought, have to sneak kisses from her somehow. Thirty minutes later, he had brushed, showered and got dressed in casual white t-shirt with grey chinos as he picked his phone from bedside table and went out of their room, in search of his wayward wife. 










He was walking down the stairs as he saw the flare of activities going around, dressed in golden kurta-pyjama Mamaji was giving instructions to decorators while Nani in pale-pink saree sat and Mami wearing her banarasi saree with heavy jewellery and make-up seemed to be tallying some lists. Anjali in designer golden saree was one side making sure her husband ate who seems like dressed in grey shirt with black trousers, probably had some work outside and was busy after him. He saw Akash in casuals going off somewhere with a list in hand, NK wore a blue kurta with black jeans entered holding a stake of packets which seemed like were sweets for the puja and Payal wearing a purple saree held her pleats in one hand and balanced a big plate of puja materials in other went off. Then his Mishti dressed in white anarkali with her white printed dupatta taken over her shoulder and tied while her long hair in a Dutch braid walked out of kitchen holding huge basket full of fruits and taking it to house temple, so he followed after her. 

KHUSHI AND ARNAV'S OUTFITS / LOOKS

Khushi placed the basket carefully beside an already seated Payal, said: “Jiji these are the fruits and are already washed, so you cut them along with keeping them on those big bronze plates over there…” pointing at the plates, “Also that the soaked rice for naivedhya is in that bowl, make small balls of it then place batasha over it and lastly tulsi leave on top of it. You have to make one hundred and eight like that, so make sure to count them it shouldn’t be more or less and use this bronze plate for it.” and pointed to the big bronze plate on Payal’s right side, continues, “Then fill the lamps and diyas with camphor and cotton twines along with putting oil in them so they are ready when Panditji asked during puja… Oil bottle is there…” pointing to the bottle was placed, “Also don’t put oil in those two big lamps, in those two pour ghee as Nani had said, okay… Aapko sab yaad rahega na theek se…? You’ll be able to all this right by yourself, Jiji…?” looking little doubtful for giving so much to Payal for doing alone. 








Payal replied: “It is fine Khushi, I’ll manage without problem and it’s not like that hard of a task that I won’t be able to. Anyways, what about rangoli…? We have to make that too Dadiji had told us to.” a little worried as she wasn’t good at rangoli making.






Khushi says smilingly: “I am going to do that now, actually I finished making all the rangolis and only the main entrance rangoli is left which I’ll do now and after that go to make the bhog for puja. Jiji you sure you’ll be able to do everything alone here…? See if you have any problem, come and ask me though when I go to make the bhog, at that time just keep the task aside and when I finish the bhog, we’ll do it together later.” told her sister.








Payal’s ego got bruised with Khushi’s behaviour as if she would mess up such easy tasks and said: “Khushi I know am not well-versed with all this puja preparations and everything like you but that doesn’t mean I am that stupid that I won’t be able to do such simple tasks. You go and carry on with your share of work; I’ll handle here everything on my own just fine.” sounding bit rude and moved to pick the knife to start cutting the fruits. 








Khushi replied: “Jiji I don’t mean to hurt or insult you, it’s just that relatives are coming and I don’t want to give them a chance to say or pick faults of Raizada bahus, it won’t look nice to Nani or Mami if they said something about us. I am sorry if you felt insulted or something, I am just a bit stress with everything but I don’t mean to be pushy or something.” giving an apologetic look.











Payal too signed, gave a smile in return as she too didn’t want her in-laws to be insulted in front of relatives due to the daughters-in-law of the house. Khushi too got up to leave for her work as the task list was long, still so much to do and so little time as she rushed out the temple without really seeing only to collide with hard wall, falling backwards only to be caught by a pair of familiar arms. She opened her eyes carefully when she didn’t hit the floor instead was held securely and her husband looking at her intensely then straightening up though he hadn’t released his arms holding her. She felt nervous under his gaze started rambling: “Good morning Arnav, you are up… good, now come I’ll give you your breakfast before getting back to work. Pata kitna kuch karna baki hai ab bhi…” and started to get out of his hold.  

He looked at her amused, said: “Why are you in such a hurry, do you have train to catch…?” and she innocently shook her head in no and he continues, “Now tell me, did you have your breakfast Mishti or since morning you just running around doing everything…?” looking at her knowingly.








She replied: “I am fasting, can’t eat before the puja and technically you should also be fasting but since you are diabetic, Nani asked Panditji if you can eat something. He said you can have fruits, so I made fruit salad for you, now come on I’ll give you breakfast and then go make the rangoli at the main entrance.” wanting him to move along to dining room. 







Arnav says: “I don’t want, if you are fasting then I don’t want to eat too… you go to make your rangoli but before that give me my morning kisses.” pulling her closer and caging her in his arms.    







Khushi’s eyes bugged out at his talks and looked around self-consciously: “Arnav what are you doing…? And I have drunk sugar-water juice, so am fine... Nani had asked Panditji if we can have water, he said it was fine. But you can’t skip meals, so now leave me and chalo apna breakfast karlo.” wiggling to get out of his arms.







He tightened his hold, replied: “Okay fine but kisses first Mishti, I haven’t had my morning kiss yet and without that I can’t begin my day.” and saw her looking around consciously, so pulled her behind a pillar and out of sight. Then he pinned her on the fall, bends down and smacks his lips on her without giving her any chance to say anything. She too lost herself in him and they both got engaged in deep passionate French kiss, letting go off each other when in dire need of air. He still moves down kissing her neck and shoulder while Khushi clutched his bicep to hold herself, bit her lips to stop from moaning out loud as they both forgot their surrounding but a loud voice of Mamaji saying something to a worker made them aware. 

She instantly pushed him off her, panting heavily and said: “Arnav you just make me lose my sanity… now come on, have breakfast and then I can get back to my work.” arranging herself as she blushingly looked away from him. He decided that he had troubled her enough for now and they both left from there as they entered the dining table, Anjali was feeding her husband and Arnav sat down ignoring them while Khushi went to kitchen. Moments later she came back hurriedly with a bowl of fruit salad and his morning black coffee, placed in front of him saying, “Here is your fruit salad and your black coffee, have your breakfast now and I’m off to my work.” placed a kiss on his cheek before rushing off to make the rangoli while he shook his head with amused smile at his wife’s antic, started to eat his breakfast. 










The two silent spectators of the scene which had varied reactions as Shyam fumed burning in his anger and jealousy while Anjali for a change looked unsure and contemplative watching her brother. They three were interrupted by the entry of Lavanya wearing orange-red designer anarkali-salwar and hair in half-updo who smilingly entered, greeting Anjali though felt hurt by ASR’s ignorance towards her. Anjali said: “Good morning Lavanya, I am so glad you came and sorry I called you to come so early.” with a smile. 



Lavanya smilingly replied: “It is fine Anjali Di, you need help and I can’t let you take stress in such condition even if some people of your family are thoughtless about it but I can’t be after all you were going to be my sister-in-law. What if because of someone else that didn’t happen, the bond between us is still there and I still care about you.” displaying her care and big heart.



Arnav rolled his eyes, asked: “What are you doing here in Shantivan so early, Ms. Kashyap…? Don’t you have a life or something, you just drop by too much here without any invitation.” being his usual sharp tongue sarcastic.








Lavanya flushed in embarrassment at this and Anjali said defensively: “Don’t talk to Lavanya like that Chotte, I called her to help me with today’s puja arrangements.” frowning at her brother’s attitude.   






He rolled his eyes, answering: “First of all, Mishti and Payal are doing all the arrangements and rest of the things are handled by others, so you don’t have anything to do here Di anyways that you would need to call for assistance. Secondly, if you even needed that why would you call Lavanya… what does she even know about these things anyways…? I mean Mishti has taught her traditional stuff but still Lavanya is nowhere an expert… so what use is there for her presence…?” giving them a look as their mouths were shut and he continues, “Look I don’t care about what you do but make sure that you don’t create a scene in front of guests or cause problem, then the consequence won’t be pleasant or light like the last time.” gave a warning look and drained his coffee, got up taking his phone and left from there, heading to his room to do some office work. 








Shyam too got up to take his leave as he had some work and left out of the house for that while both the ladies remained seated. Anjali said: “Lavanya please don’t mind Chotte’s words, he just says thing like that without thinking and you are always welcome here, think it like your own home.” with a smile and looking slightly apologetic.



Lavanya waved it off, replied: “Anjali Di it is fine, I know ASR well enough by know don’t worry about it. Now tell me what is today’s plan…? I saw Chamkeli making rangoli at main entrance when I was coming in.” carefully looking around as to make sure no one heard them.







Anjali leans forward to whisper mindful of their surrounding: “Khushi is going to make the bhog, that responsibility is hers and we have to ruin that. While making the bhog you are not supposed to talk or take help and also no one else except whoever made it and later on given to Panditji can touch it… if even lightly touched by anyone else the bhog will be ruined and discarded. So, we have to ruin the bhog she makes and that will degrade her in front of relatives for being so careless, bonus for us that Nani and Mami will also scold her.” telling the plan.

Lavanya brightened up: “That’s brilliant Di, we can start with showing how careless Chamkeli is and not deserving of being ASR’s wife or bahu of Raizada family. This could be the beginning of that… I’ll make sure that her bhog gets ruined and you be ready to make a big deal out of it in front of all.” as they decided on their roles and saw Khushi entering with a big plate of rangoli colours that she handed to HP to keep aside and enter kitchen.







Anjali says: “I think she went to make bhog now, give her a little time to get started and then put your plan in action.” and Lavanya just nodded in understanding.







That was when a voice came from behind make them jump startled: “Hello hi bye-bye, what are you two doing Anjali Bitya and Ms. Tip-top…?” as they both turned to see Mami coming towards them in her typical manner and looking at them with raised brow, “What khichdi is cooking between you two, eh…?” giving them a suspicious look.


Both got bit nervous and Anjali quickly replied: “Nothing Mami, I was just asking Lavanya if she knows anything about the upcoming fashion show next week and what is going to happen in the show. By the way, you had some work Mami…?” trying to change the topic.






Mami hmm-ed though not looking very convinced: “It is better you both don’t do any garbar today because not only that would result in getting the family insulted in front of relatives but humari Arnav Bitya would get very angry, hello hi bye-bye.” warning them and then continues, “I want you to come with me Anjali Bitya, woh your Revati Mausi from Pune has arrived with their family and wants to meet you.” told her. 






Anjali smiled: “Revati Mausi’s family has arrived…? Anita Bhabhi aayi hai…?” asked getting up and Mami nodded in affirmation as they went to greet guests while Lavanya too followed silently with mild curiosity but mind mostly in thinking about Khushi in kitchen. 







Nani was in living room chatting with an elder woman dressed in pastel saree and beside her was another lady in early thirties wearing purple silk saree smiling. Nani looked up saying: “Arre Anjali Bitya also came… see Revati, you niece is finally having her own little one soon.” smiling.







Revati Punj got up to hug her niece with a smile and blessed her, next her daughter-in-law Anita too hugged Anjali with smile as she greeted them and sat down. Anita says: “Naniji so many happening things are happening your family, it seems like with Akash’s wedding we missed the most earth-shattering and historic event of the century. I mean Anjali is pregnant and Akash got married along with the most surprising news of your akdoo Chotte who ran away from girls, finally got married. How are you feeling about it…? Where is Akash’s wife…? And Chotte’s bride…? After all, we also want to see the girl who made the impossible possible.” with a laugh. 






Nani smiled broadly, replying: “Chotte’s marriage was a surprise for us too but Khushi Bitya is very sweet girl, he couldn’t have found a better girl than her. Payal Bitya is in mandir doing puja preparation and Khushi Bitya I haven’t seen her in a while… must be here somewhere doing something.” frowning as she tried to remember.






Lavanya says: “I saw Chamkeli go in kitchen… wait I’ll call her.” taking that as an excuse to go to Khushi.






Anita frowns: “Chamkeli…? And who are you…? Haven’t seen you before…” asking.


Lavanya replied smiling: “I mean Khushi, I call her Chamkeli sometimes… And I am Lavanya Kashyap, I work in AR Designs and a friend of Anjali Di.” introducing herself. 






Revati asked: “Lavanya… are you the girl with whom Chotte got engaged…?” simple curiosity.


The others got a bit tensed and Lavanya answered: “Yes… anyways, I’ll just go and call Khushi…” getting up to escape quickly.



But before she could leave, Mami spoke up: “Ms. Tip-top no need to go…” stopping her and making all look at her questioningly, “Woh saasumma Khushi must be making bhog now, so it is better not to call her now… you sit down Ms. Tip-top, when Khushi comes out then they all can meet her, hello hi bye-bye.” and all seem to agree with her which meant Lavanya had to sit down without any other option as all got engaged in chit-chatting though Lavanya’s eyes kept wandering towards the kitchen. 







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ALMOST TWO HOURS LATER









Lavanya was still eyeing the kitchen door, so far, she couldn’t make an escape that way and even more relatives have arrived, they already met Payal who came out of mandir for something but Khushi wasn’t disturbed. Others were busy chatting and hence no one noticed her distracted behaviour though Anjali had been mindful too, glancing at the kitchen door from time to time. That was when Khushi seemed to coming out of kitchen holding a big bronze plate of full with bhog ki khichdi, sabzi, aloo-puri, halwa and sweets and Lavanya quickly got up seeing that without others seeing her. She walked towards Khushi with the intention of getting in her way and purposefully colliding with her as she seemed distracted with balancing the huge plate in her hand. She stepped in front of Khushi’s way innocently with a smirk and Khushi looked up the moment, eyes widened at almost colliding with Lavanya but to move away with the plate in her hand was difficult as it could slip from her hand. 





Suddenly from behind someone tucked Lavanya hard, moving her from the way before Khushi or the plate in her hand could get touched by another person and to balance herself, Lavanya grabbed the nearby table making the vase fall down and shatter which had all eyes in her direction. Khushi signed in relief and smiled at the person who moved Lavanya out of her way but without a word or waiting went to mandir to keep the plate quickly. While others started at Lavanya, the broken vase and then at new face who was a young beautiful girl in mid-twenties with long almost waist-length hair open, light brown eyes, heart-shape face, pink bow-shaped lips and slender figure wearing pretty light green anarkali salwar with golden zari work. 










Lavanya fumed at her plan being thawed: “How dare you touch me…?! To pull and push me like that…? Kon ho tum and who let you in…?!” blasted in her anger, attracting the attention of others too. As the workers stopped to look while Payal, Akash, Mamaji, NK and even Arnav came downstairs to see what was all the commotion about and were greeted to the sight of the drama.









The girl looked at her and calmly replied: “If I hadn’t pull you then you would have just collided with Khushi and made her drop the plate in her hand, so I prevented a disaster from happening… and probably your dress getting ruined too.” added hoping that would calm the angry woman.



But Lavanya fumed more but before she could say anything, Nani asked: “Bitya who are you…? Whom did you come to meet...?” inquired curiously.







The girl turned towards Nani, folded her hands: “Namaste Naniji, I am Piyali… Piyali Basu but you can call me Piya. I am Khushi’s other best friend and also her P.A.” smilingly introduced herself. 

PIYALI BASU AKA PIYA

They were little surprised to meet another best friend of Khushi and moreover her P.A., since when did Khushi have a P.A. and what for was the question in most family members mind. Meanwhile Khushi had done another trip to kitchen and mandir, taking second huge plate of bhog and now came smilingly out of mandir and towards her best friend. She came hurriedly exclaiming: “Piku thank you so much, you so are a lifesaver! If you haven’t pulled Lavanya out of the way then definitely I would have collided with her and all the bhog would have gone to wasted… bacha liya aaj tune.” hugging her friend tight with a huge smile. 







Piya returned the hug with smile, replied: “It’s fine Kukoo and to safeguard you there is a long line of people, won’t let anything wrong happen to you so easily.” though she met Lavanya’s eyes over her friend’s shoulder saying that and pulled back, “Anyways, I came to take the Rose Valley project file and blueprints… can give me that now…? I’ll just take that and leave.” asked her.   






Khushi frowns a little, says: “What do mean you’ll leave, are you came to my in-laws house for the first time and that too on a function day, you can’t leave like that.” and Piya seemed like was going to protest but she didn’t let her and said in Bengali, “No I don’t want to hear anything, you are staying and that is final Piku… in a while Maya, Dada, Rishi and G-maa would also be here. So, you are staying and when in evening everything wraps up, I’ll give you the file and blueprints of Rose Valley project and this my last decision, no arguments.” told her best friend in stern voice.







Piya signed: “Theek ache Kukoo, tu jeetli…”  knowing how stubborn her best friend can be when she wants to. (Okay fine Kukoo, you win.)







Khushi smiles broadly and they were interrupted by Nani’s question: “Khushi Bitya, are you going to introduce us to your friend…?” hoping to glen more information.







Khushi bit her tongue mumbling: “Hey Maa Durga, abar bhule gachi…” (Hey Maa Durga, I forgot again…) and said loudly pointing as she went introducing, “Piku this my Nani – Devyani Singh Raizada, Mamiji – Manorama Singh Raizada, Mamaji – Manohar Singh Raizada…” as Piya folded her hands and smiling did namaste who greeted her back with smile. She continues, “That is Lavanya Kashyap – works in AR and family friend you could say, Anjali Jha – Arnav’s sister and my only Nanad, Payal Singh Raizada – my Jiji and my brother-in-law’s wife, Akash Singh Raizada – bade Devarji, Nandkishore Mehra aka NK – my other Devarji…” and they all waved a hello, especially NK who was looking at Piya with dreamy smile, “Lastly this Arnav Singh Raizada – my one and only dearest husband.” took a deep breath after such a long introduction and continues, “Ah new faces, I don’t know who they are but pretty sure some relatives… Namaste, it’s nice to meet you all and please if you need anything do tell me, don’t hesitate.” doing her welcome greeting too, “And family this is Piyali Basu, my best friend since school days and now working as my P.A. plus an architect in RC Constructions.” smilingly finished the introduction and greeting part.







NK asked the question mostly everyone had in mind: “Eh Khushi Bhabhi, your P.A., since when did you have P.A.?” looking curious.



Khushi replied easily: “Since I am working in RC Constructions finishing my engineering and taken up the Head Architect post a year after joining the company.” with a smile.



This surprised mostly everyone to say the least and Akash questioned: “You were working in a construction company… then why did you join AR or took up the job of training Lavanya …?” scratching his head at not understanding that if Khushi had a job already then why do these. 








She shrugged her shoulders, answering: “Because the Gupta family couldn’t know about me working in RC Constructions… RC Constructions full-form is Raichoudhary Constructions, it wouldn’t have ended well if they knew. So, I mostly worked from home and only attended the important meetings that absolutely needed my presence otherwise the rest of the meetings Piku handled while I worked on the file and blueprints, then sent them to office. After marriage too I was working from home these days, that is why Piku came today, to pick a project file and blueprint from me.” sounding totally casual. This surprised everyone except Arnav who obviously knew all of it while others had no idea, continuing she says to NK, “Devarji, will you please take care of Piku and give her company until for a while…? Woh actually I have lot of work, so can you make sure she is comfortable and once Maya comes, you can be free.” requesting.








NK grabbed the chance with both hands: “Sure Khushi Bhabhi, no problem… I’ll give you best friend company and make sure that she is comfortable while she is here, don’t worry at all.” grinning brightly at Piya, who smiled back sweetly. 








That seemed to be enough reminder for everyone to get back to their work which they all did while NK took away Piya, chatting a dozen with her. Arnav turned to his wife said: “Mishti, I am also going to pick the Shiv Gauri idols from the shop with Akash now, okay.” and placed a kiss on her forehead, “Bye and take care okay…” pulled back with a smile.







Khushi smiled back at him lovingly: “Bye Arnav and you be careful while driving.” waving him off as he left with Akash and she also moved on to her next task on the long mental-list of things to do which was arranging the havan samagri, went to get them from where they were kept in storeroom.












Nani decided to check the arrangements in mandir and was followed by Mami, Anjali, Lavanya, Revati and Anita as they entered to see Payal struggling a bit with a heavy bronze plate full of fruits and her saree. Seeing them enter Payal quickly straightened up and Nani says: “Payal Bitya, why didn’t you wear salwar-suit instead of saree today…? See now you are having difficulties, ab aap saree sambhalengi ya kam karenge...” not scolding.







Payal felt embarrassed at her own stupidity but nothing could be done: “Woh Dadiji, I’ll manage…” replied timidly.



Mamiji asked: “Hello hi bye-bye, Khoon Bhari Tang what is this…?” frowning while hovering over a bronze plate.







She looked over the plate her mother-in-law was pointing, replied: “Eh nai… naivedya maaji…” looking down timidly.







Other ladies too were seeing the plate and Mami says: “Then what have you done here, Khoon Bhari Tang…? Don’t you know how to make naivedya…?” in her typical sharp-tongue and then takes a moment to count them, “And this are less, only eighty are there and you had to make one hundred eight… one you make them wrong and then less too, did you learn anything in your Maayka or you Amma and Buaji just sent you packing with only your boriya-bistar to our housewaa, hello hi bye-bye!” with a sarcastic look while Payal could only look down embarrassed. 



Before anyone could say more Khushi entered holding a plate full of havan samagri hurriedly and stopped short at seeing so many ladies, a little perplexed. She quickly gathered herself and smiled: “You all are here… kuch kam tha…?” and then greeted the two new faces, “Namaste I don’t know what relations you have with the family, but welcome, it so nice you could come today and if you need anything please don’t hesitate.” with a sweet smile.







They both smiled back at her and Nani said: “Khushi Bitya, Payal Bitya this is Revati, Arnav and Akash’s door ki mausi and this is her daughter-in-law, Anita… there family lives in Pune.” pointing at the person introducing, “And this is Payal, Akash’s wife and Khushi, Chotte’s wife.” finishing the formal introduction.







Revati compliments: “Devyani kaki both your granddaughters-in-law are very beautiful… jeete raho Bitya, sada suhagan raho.” as she blessed them smilingly.






Anita too adds: “Yeah both of them are so beautiful… Khushi I am especially happy to meet you, after all you did the impossible by marrying Chotte and I can see what could have stolen our Chotte’s heart… tum itni sundar ho, uska dil toh aana hi tha tum pe.” with a teasing smile and Khushi blushed at that while most laughed and few fake smiled.







Khushi looked around to change the topic and went forward to keep the plate down in her hand when she saw the naivedya plate, said frowning: “Jiji I told you to make rice balls first then put the batasha and lastly one tulsi leave on top… you put the batasha down and rice balls over it, this is wrong… phir se karna pardhega.” and looked around to see the other things, “And you put oil in those big two lamps too, I told you to pour ghee in them instead… have to wash and change it too. Also why did you put the sinhaasan there…? Aap bhool gai, Panditji told to place it east facing and here you placed it in opposite direction… isse bhi sahi jagah pe rakhna hai ab. Arnav and Akash Devarji have gone to bring the Shiv-Gauri idols, before they come we have to change the place and get it ready…” as she quickly went to remove the flowers that had been used to decorate the sinhaasan on an empty plate and placing them on it, “Jiji take pour the oil from those two diyas back in the bottle and wash them… we have to pour ghee in them, I’ll change the sinhaasan place.” instructing and continued with her work mumbling to herself in Bengali about too much work and less work though no one understood what she was speaking.










Others watched as Khushi quickly went on correcting the mistakes Payal did while Payal pour the oil from the lamps back in bottle, left to wash them while the others left too to let them continue with the preparation and check other arrangements. Khushi changed the sinhaasan position, decorated it again and made the one hundred eight naivedya again correctly, then placed the lakshmi kalash along with placing the havan samagri in proper place. Since Khushi was in mandir to do the arrangements, she made sure to keep an eye the tasks Payal was doing though Payal was bit show and fumbling due to nervousness, especially whenever Nani or Mami came to check on them. After an hour Arnav and Akash came carrying the idols and Khushi went with puja thaali to welcome the god inside home as they were placed in mandir on the sinhaasan. So, after that everyone dispersed back to their work and Khushi quickly completed last few arrangements while sending off Payal to get changed and ready for puja then she herself too went to get ready as Nani had given both the daughter-in-law’s saree and jewelleries they needed to wear.











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FORTY MINUTES LATER









Arnav entered his room having already changed in simple white kurta and pyjama with yellow nehru jacket and yellow-black mojari, looking quite dashing. He stopped at the sight of his wife sitting in front of dressing table wearing yellow banarasi silk sari with red-gold border in Bengali style, hair in sophisticated bun with gajra wrapped around it, a heavy necklace adored her neck along, her chudda on both her hands, he could see the silver waist-chain peeking from one side and was now putting on her earrings. He closed the door behind him as he moved towards her while picking the red veil kept on the bed, watching as she wore her nose ring and then picked the maang-tikka to placing it carefully on her sindoor filled maang. 

KHUSHI AND ARNAV'S OUTFIT / LOOK

Standing behind her he placed the veil over her head softly while she blushed under his intense while both their eyes met on the mirror reflection, bends down holding her shoulder and whispers in her ears huskily: “You’re looking so beautiful Mishti… like a Bengali bride, chal phir se shaadi karte hai.” placing a kiss on the side of her head.







She blushes and laughs a little, says: “Arnav kuch bhi bolte hai…” shaking her head at him.







He replies: “No I am serious, you look like a very beautiful bride, let’s get married again and this time we’ll do in Bengali style.” proposing and flirting with her as he raised a hand to brush her cheek with his fingers. 

Khushi blushes though amused and flattered equally, said: “Thank you for the compliment, I am glad you find me so beautiful that you want to get married to me all over again but we can’t, it is almost time for the puja. Now move, I am sure someone will come to call us soon…” and he placed another kiss on the side of her head before straightening, “Oh by the way, you look quite handsome too and though we are not getting married again, I say we have another suhaagraat tonight.” giving him a coy look and he was about to jump on her but a knock on the door interrupted them and he made a irritated face while she giggled at his plight. 







He opened the door with irritated look, to see HP standing and looking terrorized after seeing him and asked: “What do you want…?!” almost screaming and scaring HP even more.




Scared HP stammered: “Woh… Arnav Bhaiyya, Naniji is calling you and Badi Bhabhi downstairs for puja…” and practically ran from there for his life as he got a nod of acknowledgement.









Khushi had checked herself once more and got up as she came to stand beside him, says: “Okay I am ready, let’s go.” and he held her hand while admiring her and she snapped her finger in front of him walking him up from his trance, they both share a smile and left the room to head downstairs.










...
















Downstairs almost all the guests have arrived, even the Gupta family and Mukherjee’s have arrived as they were being introduced to the relatives. Akash dressed in red kurta, white pyjama with white printed nehru jacket came with Payal in red-golden banarasi sari, heavy jewelleries and hair open with red veil on her head. Everyone smiled at them as the Gupta’s hugged their daughter while blessing their son-in-law and guests complimenting Payal which made Buaji and Garima very happy as they talked, asking about general welfare. 

AKASH AND PAYAL'S OUTFITS / LOOK

That was when Arnav and Khushi came downstairs and all eyes were on them while smiled broadly hugging her family and Arnav too greeted them warmly. Pulling back Khushi said: “Finally you all came, so late… I thought you’ll be here hours ago. And have you met Piku…? She also came today and I stopped her for the function.” asking in everything in one breath.




Maya wearing teal full sleeve choli paired with pink long shirt and yellow net dupatta, open hair falling in curls and minimal make-up looked beautiful. She laughs saying: “Kukoo, take a deep breath… chill girl we are here now and yes, met Piku but it seems like your brother-in-law is taking too much interest in her.” giggled as she pointed to were Piya sat with NK beside her and talking animatedly while she was looking at him amused. 

MAYA'S OUTFIT / LOOK

Ryan dressed in pink kurta with white pyjama and purple nehru jacket, adds: “This NK fellow is too much of a flirt, thank heavens that you got married, Titli… if he was all over you like that then I would have to break his bones.” rolling his eyes at the obvious flirting NK was doing which made Khushi laugh at her brother’s comment.




Arnav says: “By all means please go ahead if you want to, you don’t know how many times I wanted to punch NK when he was flirting with Mishti since his arrival few days before Akash’s pre-wedding rituals were going to start. The moment he saw her, he was all over her like a rash… so Ray if you want to beat him, go ahead.” giving his friend free rein though his nose flared at remembering the time which wasn’t too long ago while Ryan looked like he would go punch NK after hearing that.







Gayatri stepped in, said: “Enough, no fighting and all… Arnav Beta, Titli is your wife now, so get over it and Ryan turn your over-protective brother mode a few notches down. No creating unnecessary scene now…” warning them both, looking nice in her blue with golden border kanjivaram silk saree.  







That was when smiling Piya came there with NK following her and she smilingly says to Arnav: “Jiju, I hope you don’t mind me calling you Jiju as Kukoo has been like sister to me and though we met earlier but couldn’t talk then, it is so nice to finally talk you. You don’t know how much of her complaining and spoke about you only since she met you, it was like except you she didn’t think or talk about anything. Twenty-four seven, only going on about Laad Governor did this, Laad Governor did that, I’ll make him pay etcetera etcetera. Though she won’t admit it to you but Kukoo is absolutely obsessed with you.” teasing her best friend while others laughed while Khushi blushed in embarrassment.

Arnav replied: “That’s okay I was equally obsessed with your friend, the difference is that I just didn’t have anyone to go and rant about her. Mere image aur ego ka sawal tha, couldn’t let anyone know that a chit of a girl had turned my world upside-down.” with a smile as he pulled Khushi closer which made them laugh at his remark. 



But further conversations were interrupted with Nani calling: “Chotte, Khushi Bitya… Akash Bitwa, Payal Bitya puja ka muhurat ho raha hai, aaiye…” from inside the temple where the puja was supposed to happen.







All started to make their way towards mandir where the puja arrangements were done and Khushi suddenly stopped making Arnav stop too along with her family to look at her questioningly. She said: “Where is Devarji…? Why hasn’t he arrived yet…?” looking at her husband.



Everyone except Ryan and Arnav frown not understanding and Piya says: “Eh Kukoo, your one Devar went inside the temple, other one is here…” pointing at NK, “Who are you talking about…?” confused.







Khushi frowns replying: “Arre not these two… where is my Devarji, Arnav…? You invited him right…? You didn’t bury him under office work today, did you…?” looking at him suspiciously.   







Arnav was about to say something but a voice came from behind: “Aapne mujhe bulaya aur main aagaya, Bhabhi…” and all turned around to see a smiling Aman Mathur dressed in yellow kurta-pyjama. He came towards her, “Now it is not possible that you call me and I don’t come… how are you Bhabhi…?” moving forward to hug her, “By the way, you look very beautiful… bilkul Bengali bride, if you say we can get you married to ASR again today.” pulled back with a goofy smile and look.

Khushi swatted him for the teasing and smilingly replied: “Thank you for the compliment but don’t think that I am so easy to pacify… am very angry with you for not coming to visit me in last few days.” told him with a frown.




Aman held his ear apologetic: “Sorry Bhabhi but what to do, your husband just makes me work like a slave and because of that I couldn’t come.” giving his best puppy face and she melted, touched his cheek with smile and he returned it fully.



Arnav shook his head at the pair said: “If you both are done with your Bharat-milap, can we move on… honestly you Bhabhi-Devar jodi are so melodramatic.” sounding exasperated though there was a fond smile on his face.







Khushi hit him playfully for teasing and Aman went forward to give Ryan a man-hug: “Oye kaminey, how are you man…?” patting his back.






Ryan reciprocated and with a smile replied: “Saale tu nahi sudhrega, am fine… I see you are still alive despite the work Arnie makes you do, how are you buddy…?” pulling back and looked at his friend.







Aman playfully retorted: “Saala toh tu hai ASR ka and yeah still alive… By the way, who are they…? Can anyone kindly do the introductions.” smilingly looked at the new faces and his eyes lingered a little longer on a specific person.







Khushi said: “I’ll do the honours, this is Piyali Basu or Piya as we call her – my best friend and P.A. also an architect in RC Constructions, Rishi Mukherjee – my father’s friend and like a father to me, his wife Gayatri Mukherjee – my G-maa and lastly their daughter Dr. Maya Mukherjee – my best friend-slash-sister.” pointing at each person, “Ufff these days it’s like I just keep introducing people, have done it so many times now after marriage that I haven’t in all my life.” mumbles under her breath finishing another set of introductions.



Aman smilingly took blessings from senior Mukherjee’s while waved hello to Khushi’s friend, said: “Hello, it is nice to meet you, I am Aman Mathur, Ray’s best friend along with being ASR’s best friend-slash-P.A.” giving self-introduction though his eyes got stuck on Maya.

Arnav says: “Okay enough of this, we should head for the puja and chat later…” and with that they all made way inside the mandir.







As others sat down with other guests while Arnav and Khushi took their places in front beside Akash and Payal. The Panditji begins the puja with chanting mantras and all sat folding hands while he kept asking for necessary things which were passed to him then followed by starting the havan in which both the couples were asked to put samagri in fire. Then Panditji asked: “Now pass the suhagan things that both the daughters-in-law will give to Maata Gauri.” looking at both the brides.   







Khushi nods while Payal looks confused: “Suhagan ki cheeze…?” asked doubtfully.







Panditji explains patiently: “Haan Bitya, a new red saree, bangles, bindi and sindoor these are suhagan’s thing and you both will give this to Maata Gauri, it was in the list as to what was needed… so bring those things.” looking expectantly.







Payal nervously looked around as she had forgotten about it and hadn’t gotten these things ready but luckily for her someone else had thought this. Khushi spoke: “Ji Panditji…” then looked behind her, “Candy, can you bring those things from living room…? See two big bronze plates kept on the corner coffee table, I forgot bring them here and keep them… Piku, you also go with her as she won’t be able to bring those two alone.” asking them.









Maya and Piya just smiled, getting up to them and two minutes later they both returned holding two bronze plates filled with the required things as Maya passed the one in her hand to Khushi while Piya gave one in her hand to Payal, then resumed their seats. Khushi and Payal passed them to Panditji as the havan proceeded and among all this it was only Nani who had noticed Payal’s nervousness which instantly told her about her forgetting about this, it was Khushi who had been prepared on both their behalves. Rest of the puja and havan was finished without any trouble and by the time it was over, it was lunch time, so quickly the guests were directed to back lawn were a tent was placed with food arrangements. Both the couples also sat to have their lunch as they had been fasting and soon tables were occupied with plates full of food while laughter and chattering filled the atmosphere. 









Nani, Mami, Mami, Anjali, Shyam and Lavanya sat on a table with few of the relatives talking while Akash and Payal sat on a table beside that with the Gupta family, where the Gupta ladies were busy adoring their daughter and son-in-law. Arnav and Khushi sat on the table with senior Mukherjee’s, Ryan, Aman, Maya, Piya and NK as they had a nice time chatting during lunch as stories about Khushi’s childhood were exchanged. Soon after the lunch was over and Khushi along with Arnav went to meet few of his relatives while others too went to mingle with other guests.














...











THIRTY MINUTES LATER



Maya and Piya were in one corner of the living room where they both had found a fan made of peacock feathers from somewhere and now both the girls were amusing themselves as they played and tickled each other with it, laughing. Khushi called Piya who left which left Maya alone standing with the peacock feather fan, still a smile lingering as she placed it on the nearby table to go find either Ryan Dada or her Jiju to chat. She turned around only to find a grinning Aman in front of her and she said: “Hey there… Aman right…?” and gave him a smile. 








Aman nodded, speaking: “Hi Maya, you are Khushi Bhabhi’s BFF right…? So, how was it meeting your BFF’s husband...? Is he up to mark for your BFF…?” smiling and an amused glint in his eyes.

She replied easily: “Jiju is absolutely the best and most deserving person for my Kukoo and he loves her so much, that is so satisfying to see. I am sure you know this since you have been Ryan Dada’s friends for long, you must be aware of how loved and pampered Kukoo was in her family, that the Gupta family had neglected her a lot. They even forced her to get engaged to a scoundrel though what they don’t know was we would’ve interfered; I remember Rudra Dada looked barely restraining himself from going over there to shoot the guy in head. But it never came to that as guy was thrown out earlier and we were all so worried after that stunt the Gupta’s pulled over the thought that one of these days they would forcibly marry Kukoo off to someone. That night when Kukoo called along with Ryan Dada to tell us that she was marrying someone and it turned out to be his best friend. We knew she was in save hands, that her future is secured because he wouldn’t have let the marriage take place if he wasn’t right, best friend or not. Then arriving here, we have seen ourselves just how much Arnav Jiju loves Kukoo… he just couldn’t stay without his Mishti, so yeah he is very much up to the mark and more.” with a sweet smile.    

He tells her sincerely: “ASR loves Khushi Bhabhi a lot, probably more than he ever loved anyone ever and that includes his Di for whom he had spent half his live working to secure her future. By the way, are you having fun…?” though he looked over her shoulder still a hidden mirth in his eyes.

She frowns at him not really understanding, looks over her shoulder once but didn’t see anything and asked him: “What why are you smiling like that…?” giving him an unsure smile.










Aman doesn’t say anything, he just raises his hand and looks at him confused then he plucks something out of her hair and held it in front of her, it was a peacock feather that was stuck in her hair. He lets out a chuckle at the look at her face as she looks between him and the feather in his hand, then herself bursts into giggles thinking how she must have looked all this time while talking to him. So, like that Aman stuck a friendship with Maya as they both continued to talk to each other while exchanging embarrassing childhood stories about their respective best friends’ and bonded over it quite well, unaware of two people observing them.

...
















Looking around with a smile, Piya stood waiting near the stairs for Khushi to return with the files and blueprints that she came for today in the first place when she felt a prickling as if someone was watching her. At first, she ignored thinking it as her imagination but since the feeling wouldn’t go away, she frowned and sneakily glanced around her to see if someone was watching her and soon found NK standing at one place staring at her. She felt a little nervous having his gaze on her like that and started to fidgeting with her dupatta, trying to ignore it and hope that he would stop it but it didn’t seem to happening.  

Much to her relief Khushi came downstairs with the files and blueprints in hand which made NK drop his staring and leave from there immediately. She stood in front of her, says: “Here is the Rose Valley Project, you just check it once more and meeting is on Tuesday, so do it before that along with concluding the deal… it has been going on for a while, I want it finalized now. Also have you sent the invitations for the Fashion Show and reception next weekend to out business associates that I sent over…?” asked all business-like as she handed the documents.







Piya replied: “Yeah don’t worry I’ll check these once and make sure to finalize it in this upcoming meeting for sure, don’t worry. And yes, the invites have been sent as I already got confirmations from most about attending it, as it would be like that people are in quite frenzy to see the great ASR’s bride who is apparently Raichoudhary family’s lost princess. The media have gone absolutely crazy but this publicity has been good for us as it raised out share prize quite a lot in share-market along with more interested clients.” sounding equally professional.  




She hmm-ed and said: “That is good and I am sure the share price would rise even more in the upcoming days with the hype the media is creating now. Anyways, we’ll discuss this later and you remember right that you too have to come to next weekend’s event no excuse… so be prepared and have our PR team ready to hand official statement to media after the press-conference.” and Piya nodded sincerely, continues, “Okay then enough of this for now, I’ll call you up late to discuss the details. You are leaving for home now…?” inquired.








Piya replied: “Yeah it is already almost evening now, I should leave…” with a smile.








Khushi stepped forward to hug her, says in Bengali: “Thank you so much for coming and staying today, it felt so nice Piku and especially being able to interact and introduce you to my family freely now… it means a lot to me. And how are you going home… brought your car or should I have Nanhe Devarji to drop you…?” asking.








Piya’s eyes widened and almost screamed in panic, replied: “Naaa ami chole jabo…” as seeing the look her friend gave immediately controlled herself, “It is fine Kukoo, ami gaadee niye ashechi so don’t worry… ami chole jabo and please tor Devar ke amar theke doore rakh.” which got her a silent questioning look, “Tor Nanhe Devarji amar dikē adbhutabhābē takiye thake, it’s weird, abar khub boro flirt, na re dorkar nai, ami resquest korchi, please oke amar theke door rakh.” glancing around nervously as if she expected for NK to jump at her from somewhere. (Nooo I’ll go myself… It’s fine Kukoo, I brought my car so don’t worry.... I’ll go myself and please keep your Devar away from me. Your Nanhe Devarji keeps staring, it's really weird also he is such a big flirt, no thanks, I am requesting please keep him away from me.) 

Khushi laughed, says: “O kichu korbe na, Nanhe Devarji and his flirting is quite harmless kintu tor jodi asobhide ache toh ami unake tor theke doore rakhbo kintu manush khub bhalo, toh chinta korish na. Acha ebar bol toh amar bor ke kamon laglo…? Khub toh bolchili dekha korbi.” changing the topic with a smile as she adjusted the veil on her head carefully. (He won’t do anything, Nanhe Devarji and his flirting is quite harmless since you feel uncomfortable, I will keep him away from you but he is nice person, don’t worry. Now tell me what you think of my husband…? You were insisting so much about wanting to meet him.) 




Piya smiling answered: “Soti bole lok-jone ki ASR ja kore sudhu extreme kore, Kukoo… tui ja complain korti ami soti bujhte par chilam na je tui sei lok ke ki kore biye korte parli, kintu aaj dekhlam kano. Tor bor toke khub bhalobase, amon kore tor dege takiye thake jano tui kono sapno r o jodi chokh soraye tale tui hawa hoye jabi. Dekhe bhalo laglo je toke ato bhalobase Jamai-babu, just like you deserve Kukoo.” hugging her once more and pulled back, “Acha ami akhon ashi, bye and take care…” bidding goodbye with a smile and left with Khushi coming with her till the door. (People are right when they say that whatever ASR does in extreme, Kukoo… the amount of complaining you did about him I really didn’t understand why you would have married the same man, but today I saw why. He loves you so much, looks at you like you are a dream and if he looks away then you’ll vanish in thin air. It is nice to see that Jijaji loves you so must, just like you deserve Kukoo. Okay I’ll leave now, bye and take care…) 







With a last smile Khushi came back inside only for NK to stumble in front of her out of nowhere and she asked him: “Eh are you okay Nanhe Devarji…?” looking at her strange brother-in-law behaving even more stranger than usual.







NK straightened up, saying with extra-large smile: “Yeah Khushi Bhabhi am fine… like to totally fine… Hehehe what would happen to me… am complan boy, I mean strong man… like totally grown-up…” rambling nervously.



She nodded skeptically: “Right… you wanted to say something…?” moving on to next topic without much thought. 








He said: “No nothing, I just wanted to say that you look very beautiful in this look today… yeah I wanted to say just that…” and she kept staring at him nonplussed while he fidgeted, “Ah actually I wanted to ask… is your friend Piya single…?” not meeting her eyes while turning a little pink. 







She raised a brow at that and replied amused: “Yes she is single and as far as I know isn’t interested in anyone at the moment but why are you asking that…?” and he remained silent, she shakes her head, “By the way, you came too strong on her today… maybe you would want to tone it down a bit, especially standing in an corner and staring thing, if you don’t want to run down the hills screaming. One advice, just start with becoming a friend first and then move forward from there varna Piku aapke haath nahi aane wali.” and laughing at him, left from there while NK stood there all red and mortified as he quickly ran off from there to hid.








...
















This conversation was witnessed by two other people who grinned at each other wickedly where none other than Arnav Singh Raizada and Ryan Raichoudhary, who were standing in one corner within hearing range but out of sight. These had also seen Aman’s interaction with Maya and knew well enough that their friend was totally enamored with her as well. Ryan says: “What do think, who is going to woo the girl first… Aman or NK…?” tilting his head sideways a little.







Arnav replied: “Aman, if he plays his cards right… You think either of them would come to us for help or advice…? Or tell us…? And who would be first…?” looking at his friend.







Ryan contemplatively said: “Hmmm I don’t think Aman would need help or advice though he’ll tell us soon, you know him never to hid anything from us. Now, NK would definitely need help, so he has to come to us at one point and then…” giving a smirk which was returned by equally by ASR too.



Akash came there and saw the looks being exchanged asked: “Eh why do both of you such a look on your faces…? What is happening…?” feeling suspicious and not too good about he looks on his Bhai and his best friends face.







Arnav and Ryan said together: “Nothing at all Akash, you are reading too much…” waving it off casually.







Aman walked in the scene and took one look at his best friends faces, says: “I know that look on both of your faces aur iska matlab hai ki kiski band bajne wali hai.” stood between his best friends as if to put an arm on their shoulders but stopped considering he was five-inches shorter than them. He made a face complaining, “Chhichhoro yeh kya naariyal ke ped jaise lambe ho dono ke done, tumhare beech khada hota hoon toh baune jaise feel hone lagti hai mujhe. Khair jaane do aur yeh batao Ray, Arnie ki kiska band bajane wale hai hum…?” with a gleeful expression as he readily included himself in whatever mayhem his best friends were going to unleash on someone. (I know that look on both of your faces and it means someone is in real trouble. Idiots why are you both tall like coconut trees, standing in between you to makes me feel like a midget. Anyways let it go and tell me Ray, Arnie who are we going to trouble…?) 




Both his best friends stood on either side on him and Ryan said: “Come with us and we’ll tell you everything. Aman it’s going to hilarious on epic proportions, we have start planning already…” while Arnav nodded in agreement as the three left whispering among themselves leaving behind a confused Akash who just stood there thinking about what the heck just happened. He threw his hands up in exasperation and gave up trying to understand any of it as it is, he would there to see when whatever the three musketeers planned when put into action.












.....

















EVENING – 07:00 P.M.










The Raizada family sat down in living room with tiredly as last of the relative left and now only Gupta family remained as small talks were made and Khushi with Arnav came to sit down having just seeing off Khushi’s family. Buaji said: “Today’s function was very nice and the puja along with havan happened without any problem, our Payaliyaa did all the preparations so nicely.” praising her niece as if she did all preparations single-handedly.








Mami rolled her eyes, saying: “Tumhri Payaliyaa sirf blunder hi karat hai iph left on her own, woh toh humri Khushi bahuriya was there that everything got over without problem. Tell ujj one thing, aap log taught tumhri Payaliyaa anything or sent her in our homewaa with her boriya-bistra only, hello hi bye-bye!” remarked in her usual sharp-tongue. (Your Payaliyaa can only cause blunder if left on her own, it is that our Khushi bahuriya was there that everything got over without problem. Tell us one thing, you taught your Payaliyaa anything or just sent her to her home with her bags only, hello hi bye-bye!)








Gupta ladies felt embarrassed while Payal too looked down at the cutting remark though her mother-in-law wasn’t wrong, it was true that Khushi had been the saving grace of doing all the preparations and in time while she did mistakes in her nervousness and was slow too. Nani interrupted: “Manorama, be quite…” while Manorama just made a face and snobbishly looked away and she turned to Gupta ladies, “Don’t mind Manorama’s words, she just says things a little rudely but isn’t bad at heart… Though I must ask this too, doesn’t Payal Bitya know anything about household or puja preparations…? Because considering Khushi knows these things, we thought you would’ve taught Payal too as she is your elder daughter.” but Buaji and Garima reminded silent, “See am not complaining about Payal Bitya, she is a very nice girl but we do have some expectations from her as daughter-in-law of the house. We don’t expect her to do all the house-chores, for that servants are there in the house but family functions like this, puja and preparations for that we expect the daughter-in-law to do… now servants won’t be doing, right. But she doesn’t know anything and no one even told us that she doesn’t know any of it while we see Khushi doing everything and felt that maybe Payal too knows them. Someone should have told us, so we would’ve known from where and how much to teach her…” then turning towards Payal said, “And Payal Bitya, two days ago I told you both in detail and gave the list for everything about how to do the preparations. Did you forget the instructions…? I know you didn’t get the suhag ki cheeze when Panditji asked, what if Khushi hadn’t prepared that for both of you…?” and Payal looked down embarrassed, “See I am not scolding you, am just saying that if you had doubts or forgot something then come and ask again… you didn’t even once come with any questions when you had problem, why…?” looking at her with a  bit sternly.








Payal mumbled timidly: “Woh… woh Dadiji, I am sorry… I just… woh I just forgot things in my nervousness.” apologetic and flustered though not telling that she didn’t ask for help as she didn’t want to look lesser than Khushi.   








Nani replied: “I am not angry that you made mistakes, it is fine… it can happen to anyone but the thing is if you had problem why didn’t you come to us…? If Khushi hadn’t looked out for both of you then you would have gotten embarrassed in front of all, we don’t want that to happen. So, please next time Bitya if you want help then ask…” to which she got a timid nod from her second granddaughter-in-law and next to elder one, said, “Khushi Bitya, today you have done everything perfectly… I know you single-handedly made sure the arrangements for guests were done and did most of the preparations today. Bahut ache, as the badi bahu you never give us any reason to complain and always fulfilled your role in taking over the household perfectly.” complimented with a smile, “So this is why I want to handover the household responsibility to you…” and with that she pulled out a key-set with traditional silver-chain, “From today as the badi bahu this household and its responsibility is yours, I know you would handle it perfectly.” holding it out. 







Khushi stared wide-eyes at Nani, stammering: “Nani… Nani yeh… what are you doing Nani…? Why are you giving this to me…? How can I… nahi Nani…” starting to refuse.  







Nani took her hand and put it in her palm, closing the fist and says: “No one is better suited to take over the responsibility, now I have grown too old for this. Even though Manorama is a very good daughter-in-law despite her crazy ways but she isn’t exactly interested in taking over household responsibilities, that is why I never gave her. Chotte has done the most for the family, taking care of everyone and rightfully his wife should shoulder that burden with him… toh yeh aapka haq hai aur yeh aapko hum aaj saupte hai.” and Khushi enclosed her hand as she bent down to touch her feet and Nani kept a hand on her head blessing, “Jeete raho Khushi Bitya, sada suhagan raho…” then straightened looking at Nani with teary eyes who smile, “I couldn’t be anymore happy then seeing you as Chotte’s wife, you brought love, laughter and colours back in my grandson’s life. And even though I was furious at both of you for how you got married, I couldn’t stay angry anymore seeing how much he loves you and how much you adore him. Just always be with my Chotte, never let that smile on his lips and happiness in his eyes fade which I know as long as you are with him won’t ever fade.” kissed her forehead, “You look very beautiful today, if I am not wrong than Bengali brides look like this… and you look just like a pretty bridal doll.” pinching her chin affectionately making Khushi smile blushing. 








Arnav pulled his wife in arms saying: “Right Nani, see my Mishti is so beautiful like a Bengali bride. In fact, I asked her if she wanted to marry me again today and we’ll do Bengali style but she got shy and said no.” chuckled as she hit his arm blushing at his teasing while most of the family too laughed.









Garima and Buaji weren’t happy to see Nani accepting Khushi along with handing over household keys to her but kept mum knowing they can’t say anything no matter what. Shyam fumed seeing Khushi getting accepted as Arnav’s wife which meant more complications while Anjali too felt not so well about what Nani did, this would make throwing that gold-digger out difficult. But for now, they all plastered fake smiles and not show their distaste about it. Garima said: “Ah wanted to ask something Devayaniji…” and all looked at her questioningly, “Woh Payal and Khushi’s friend, Preethi is getting married after two weeks and they invited both the girls. So, if both of them could come to Lakshmi Nagar and stay a few days for the pre-wedding rituals and wedding then it would be nice.” adjusting the pallu over her head carefully.








Mami was first to respond: “Yes yes take your Payaliyaa but tell us why do you want Khushi bahuriya too…? Didn’t you all said that she wasn’t welcomed in your house anymore, hello hi bye-bye.” giving them suspicious look, pressing her lips. 








Both the Gupta ladies fidgeted at that question and Buaji replied: “Woh Preethi is more of Khushi’s friend than Payal’s and she asked specifically if Khushi would come and stay during the rituals and wedding time.” though carefully kept her expression about not wanting that wretched girl back in her house, if possible for her. 








Mami looked like she was going to refuse Khushi’s going over with a cutting remark but Nani spoke first not giving a chance: “We don’t have any problem if they both want to go…” leaving the decision on Payal and Khushi.








Payal excited at the prospect of going to her Maayka immediately, said: “Yes I want to stay and Preethi’s getting married, so nice… it will be very much fun.” with a smile.








Khushi too smiled commenting: “Preeto’s wedding, so nice… I have to call her soon and congratulate her…” thinking about calling up her friend tomorrow.




Arnav frowning says: “Mishti is not going to Lakshmi Nagar and stay…” and everyone stares at him while he continues, “I’ll drop her there every morning and pick her up later, she can stay as long as she want but at the end she has to come back to Shantivan.” declared firmly pressing his lips. 




Anjali asked: “Why Chotte couldn’t Khushi stay in Lakshmi Nagar for few days, her friend’s wedding… let her go and enjoy, why are you stopping her…?” as she saw this as prospect of keeping her brother away from his so-called wife for few days and even others were curious too while Khushi knew the reason for her husband’s refusal.




He was bit distracted to have taken properly notice of Anjali being the one to question and answered: “Because I can’t stay away from Mishti, if she goes to live in Lakshmi Nagar then how am I going to survive. No, she can’t go and stay there, like I said I’ll drop her early morning and pick her up whenever she wants to come, no matter how late but she has to come back home to me.” face set in stubborn expression and held his wife possessively as if someone would try to take her away from him now.









Khushi side-hugged him, saying: “I am not going anywhere if you don’t want me to Jaanu, calm down and anyways, there is still time we’ll think about it after the fashion show and reception. You just calm down; I am not going anywhere leaving my Jaan.” giving him a sweet smile which calmed him down as he nodded but held her close still quite possessively. 










Mostly all smiled at this exchange and those who didn’t like made sure to fake smile while the Gupta ladies got up to leave and Payal along with Akash went till door to see them off. Nani asked everyone to go rest, especially Khushi and Payal since they worked so much while fasting till lunch also said that dinner would be sent to their rooms, they don’t need to bother coming down with that she sent both the couples off to their respective rooms. Akash and Payal blushed shyly glancing at each other as he said asked Payal to rest, much to her disappointment as she was hoping something romantic while he too felt like an idiot for being so awkward around women, even his wife. On the other hand, Arnav excitedly dragged blushing Khushi upstairs to their room as he continued to flirt and giving her bedroom eyes which showed clearly that resting was the last thing that they would be doing. Others too left for their respective rooms to rest as they all were tired after such a hectic day while few felt the need to be alone, away from family to express their true frustrations. Anjali had taken this evening as opportunity to discuss her dilemma with Shyam, she hoped he would provide her clear idea as she was little confused with Khushi’s presence because like Nani said, she did bring happiness back in her Chotte’s life.












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PRECAP: Upcoming AR Bridal Fashion Show and Reception… let’s see how much of it happens in next chapter but surly the preps will begin in. What do you expect to happen in the most awaited event in which ASR introduces his Mrs. to the world…?











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[NOTE: Hello lovelies, finally the update… sorry it got delayed as I was having little trouble at last few scenes and then my husband took the laptop all weekend which didn’t provide me the chance to write. Anyways, how was it… good, bad or worse…? I know it didn’t have much of the Arnav-Khushi romance but not all chaps can be like that, other things also need to happen for the story to move forward LOL. What do you think of Piya’s entry…? And Aman meeting Maya…? And what trouble do you think the Three Musketeers are going to cause for NK…? Do think they would scare the life out of NK and what would be the family’s reaction of seeing their akdoo Chotte causing mischief with his best friends…? Also, those readers who were going crazy with request of Khushi working, for them I finally put that part… it was something I always had in mind but wasn’t able to put it before but with Piya’s entry that too came. Are you happy now…?








Now I have a question and need a voting, how many of you want Khushi to go stay in Gupta House for Preeto’s wedding…? And if she stays in Lakshmi Nagar then Arnav would follow her there, so how many of you want of Payal and Khushi with their respective husbands staying in Gupta House…? Please answer that as am bit confused as I have few ideas for both and do share what you want to see if ArShi and Payash stay at Gupta House. Also, any questions for the media asking Arnav, Khushi, Akash, Payal or any other family member at the press conference, I would love some ideas for questions. 









Anyways, for now that’s all folks, don’t forget to like/vote and leave comments… and more then just ‘nice’ or ‘good chap’, I am sure you have more thoughts than that reading a chapter. So, will be back with next update and until then take care, see you…








With love,
 Kavya








#PS: Someone commented asking how old is Khushi for completing engineering and working... Well for those who have the same question, in my story Khushi is around 23-24, she has finished her 12th at age of 17 *I  was 17 when I gave my H.S. and turned 18 after giving my 1st year finals in college*, when she completed her B. Arch. she was 21 almost or just turned 22 and joined RC Constructions alongside doing her M. Arch since she was working from home, so it wasn't difficult for her to pursue her masters along side which takes 02 years. So, when she first met Arnav, she had recently finished her masters and had been able to shift abruptly to Delhi after the who Fashion Show incident without trouble of her studies. And Payal is like almost three years older than Khushi, so she is 26-27around... hope that clears the age doubt.]