CHAPTER 16: Ikk kudi jeeda naam…
[NOTE: There is a flashback sequence going on during the song which is also a flashback… so basically it is a flashback in a flashback.]
GUPTA HOUSE, DELHI – 09:30 P.M.
The Gupta family were happily chatting with Mr. Om Mathur and Mrs. Anita Mathur, Aman Mathur’s parents as they all settled down in living room after hearty dinner, now to have desserts. They all sat down with their own bowl of sweets on the couches in one was Sashi with Garima and Nani besides him. On the opposite couch sat Om along with his wife Anita and son Aman while Lavanya and Anjali sat side by side on a loveseat as the adults continued with their talks about fixing the marriage date. Om says: “Sashiji it has been months now that Aman and Anjali have gotten engaged, I think now it is high time to get them married… what do you think…?” smilingly glanced at the said couple who blushed sitting in their place.
Others too smiled at them and Sashi nodded: “Yes you are correct, even I think it is high time that they get married now… Now you talked to Panditji or should we talk to our family Pandit for auspicious date…?” asked politely.
Anita replies: “Bhai Saheb we talked to our family Pandit and he has given us few dates and the best one we feel is 26 of next month. That should give us enough time to arrange everything otherwise there were no dates for another six months after that and we don’t want to wait that long. What you all think…?” eating a spoonful of her dessert after asking.
Sashi looked at his wife and mother-in-law as they nodded, he turned to Mathur’s, said: “Well we too have no objections, so wedding is on 26 of next month and the pre-wedding rituals will start a week prior, from 20… that should be enough. Aap logo ko koi aitraaz toh nahi…?” putting forward his suggestion.
They all agreed happily and everyone congratulated each other as Aman and Anjali exchanged loving smiles and did gesture-silent talks to express how excited they were at the prospect of getting married finally. The conversation shifted to wedding arrangements and guest list while Aman and even usually bold Anjali seemed shy, as they both gave their opinions and Lavanya teased them. In conversation Anita says: “I heard from Aman that full Raizada family is here in India, so are you also going to send invitation from your family side Sashiji…? Because one invitation from our side will be going to their family as Mr. Manav Singh Raizada are Omji’s business associates and Ahlawat family will also be invited from our side.” making the Gupta family go silent with her question.
Sashi replied: “Yes we’ll also be sending them invitation from our side also as you know the joint venture we are doing with their company, so everyone here from their team is going to get invited from our side.” trying to sound as normal as possible.
Om and Anita simply smiled and moved on to another topic while Garima and Nani too smilingly engaged them as Sashi silently sat nodding and giving his input from time to time but his eyes were on his younger daughter whose smile has now fake. The reminder of Raizada’s and Ahlawat’s made Lavanya’s genuine smile and happiness turn into fake as at the mention for their names brought the unpleasant reality to the forefront of her mind. Lavanya was happy for her Di finally getting married to her love but this made her heart prick somewhere, she was also this happy when she was getting engaged to ASR… if only things hadn’t turned out the way they in present. She swallowed the lump that seemed to be stuck in her throat as a sudden urge to cry overwhelmed her but she controlled herself as to not ruin things for her sister.
.....
THREE HOURS LATER
Lavanya was pacing her room from the last hour with her phone in her hand and ASR’s contact open, she wanted to call him but it was quite late which made her hesitate as it was past midnight. But she had this urge to talk to him, today seeing her Di’s glowing face reminded her of the time when she had gotten engaged to ASR… she wanted that happiness back and for that she needs to convince him to drop his anger. So, after an hour of pacing and giving herself pep talk, she called on his number but it kept ringing with no one picking it up. She looked at her phone in disappointment but since she had gathered courage to call, she wasn’t giving up so easily and dialled his number again with shooting a prayer heaven wards that he picks up which this time he did.
From other side came Arnav’s voice answering the call: “Hello…” but she suddenly felt tongue-tied while he sounded irritated as repeating, “Hello… Hello… who is it…? Either you talk or am dropping the call and you better not call on this number again!” threatened with intentions of cutting the call.
She immediately spoke up hurriedly: “Don’t cut the call please...” then a moment later hesitantly, “Hello… Hello ASR, it is me…” clutching her phone tightly in her nervousness.
From the other side came Arnav’s voice, saying: “Of course I recognize it’s you L--” but stopped mid-sentence and instead asked, “Anyways, what pleasure do I owe for you to ring me this late…?” sounding stern.
Lavanya fumbled: “Woh… woh ASR… I know it’s quite late but… I… wanted to… I…” pacing restlessly and felt rather lost as to what she should say.
He said annoyed: “Look either you speak up fast what you wanted to say or drop the phone, sitting down to think properly what you want to say and call me in the morning to say it. You might have not anything interesting to do but I do have better things to do rather than hear you stammering, so speak up fast!” his annoyance clear in his voice.
She tried to say: “ASR… woh ASR… I wanted… to… I mean ASR… I…” getting all the more nervous at his irritation and annoyed at herself for not being able to speak.
Impatiently he snaps at her: “You know what just let be and call me back in the morning or something because am rather busy at the moment.” ending the call as the heard rustling of sheets, miffed thud sound and what followed were muffled sounds from other side that she still heard clear enough, “You little minx! You are so getting it bad for teasing me like that...” And Khushi’s voice half-moaning as she said, “Hmmm Arnav… Ahhh who was it… Ohhh why did you not talk to... Hmmm…” tears started to roll down her eyes as she heard ASR’s reply, “Hmm it was a client... nothing important… being rather idiot calling up this late not remember four-and-half hours ahead… Ignore it babes…” followed by shuffling sounds, heavy breathing along as Khushi spoke, “Ohhh but you… Ahhh shouldn't have still talked... Hmmm like that, quite ohhh… quite rude hmmmm…” moaning which accompanied with male groans. He hushed her, voice clearly husky with desire, “Shhh you talk too much Mahiya… And didn’t you me saying I am busy... and am rather busy loving my wife properly.” After this was Khushi’s half-hearted protest, “No Arnav... hmmm no... Jaanaaaa…” moaning as kisses were being exchanged. ASR said, “Yes Mahiya… Oh you are going to get so bad from me now… teasing me like that… I am going to fuck you again Babes… Fuck you raw, wild and hard… You’ll be screaming my name all night, Babes!” his voice raw, seducing and promising of sinful pleasures.
Lavanya had heard enough as tears rolled down her eyes and brought the phone down her ears, cutting the call even though the sounds of what she heard echoed in her ears along with her mind providing the mental images to match them. She broke down in sobs as the thoughts of ASR sharing physical intimacy with another girl… with Khushi which stabbed her heart rather brutally and mercilessly though she kept denying. True during their relationship she had shared few kisses with him and she knew from him that despite having numerous affairs along with being a playboy, he never had sex with anyone. It was this one thing ASR was very particular about as he always said that he was saving himself for the special girl whom he would marry because why should it only be his future wife saving herself for him, and if she could do that, then he can do the same for her. Though this doesn’t mean that he is by any means conservative male who would only marry a virgin girl, he just wished to share that level of intimacy with someone special instead of just causally throwing it around.
In front of her eyes was ASR seemed to have moved on with Khushi but her heart and mind didn’t want to accept that he has forgotten her… that he moved on. And how could he when she was still here in-love with him...? When she herself hadn't been able to accept Samar completely, then how could ASR be happily married to Khushi and have forgotten her...? Why can’t he see that he was hurting her in his anger and quest to make her pay for the hurt she caused him six years ago...? She sobbed thinking that she couldn’t lose ASR again but how could she make him declare that he still loves her. She sat on her bed sobbing and then laid down while her mind started to travel the path of her memory lane to the past that was gone but she wanted to go back in time to do things better.
---FLASHBACK---
SIX YEARS AGO
TACO BELL, VASANT VIHAR – 10:30 P.M.
Lavanya ran back to her table with tears streaming down her eyes where Samar was waiting for her and immediately stood up when he saw her. He said: “Lavanya, what happened…? Why are you crying…? Lavanya say something...” as he wrapped a arm around her and looked at her concernedly.
She quickly wiped her tears and bit her lips to not break down in sobs while her eyes wandered towards ASR’s table where the girl with him sat, looking around and then she got up to go where he had gone. The quickly averting her eyes back to her husband said: “I’ll you on the way but for now I want to go home, Samar.” glancing to see that girl entering the corridor ASR was.
He frowned confused but she seemed determined about leaving that moment itself, so not wanting to create scene unnecessarily. So, he paid the bill quickly and left with her from the restaurant to the parking lot as they sat inside the car instead of turning on the engine, he turned towards her asking: “Lavanya will you at least tell me now, what exactly happened…?” getting impatient with her silence and worried to seeing her constantly wiping tears.
She kept wiping her tears, replied: “ASR… ASR… was… he…” and breaks into sobs.
He too gets tensed hearing that, probs her further: “ASR…? Where did he come from…? Seriously, will you tell me exactly what happened please…?” demanding gently.
She brought her teary eyes up at him and answered: “Woh… Woh ASR was also in this restaurant along with another girl, I saw them sitting few tables away from us… I don’t know who the girl was as I didn’t see her face. But I don’t think they saw us before I went after him and confronted him.” hiccupping lightly as she sobbed.
Samar said: “Must be that new intern girl as she is the only one who is friendly with him, from what I have heard is that she is new, knows no one, became friends with ASR and they are seen around each other frequently… though I don’t know who she is as I haven’t seen her, just know that it is some Ms. Ahlawat. It’s a good thing that ASR is coming out and has someone to lean on because he has been so distant from us all. But why are you crying… if he hadn’t seen us before then why did you went after him…? And what do mean by confronting him…?” frowning as he looked at his wife.
Lavanya replied: “I went after him when I saw him get up to go to washroom and confronted him in the corridor about how he could do this to me…? How could ASR come on a date with another girl…? That he dares to forget me… but he instead lashed on me angrily saying that he was on a friendly dinner with that girl and that I don’t have any rights to demand answers from him… How could he say that to me…? He said I had no rights to interfere or accuse him if he really was on date and moving on… Samar how can ASR say that to me…? How could he do this to me…?!” as she sobbed and looks at him to support her.
He couldn’t believe her words and attitude, said: “Lavanya what the hell?! How could you say something like that to him…? What is wrong with you…?!” staring at her from up to down.
She frowned saying: “What do you mean Samar…? Instead of taking my side, you are siding with ASR… Can’t you see how much he had hurt me with his actions and words today?!” getting bit of angry now.
He looked at her incredulously, replied: “Honestly Lavanya, you have some serious issues if you actually victimize yourself like this all the time and even after this so-called confrontation with ASR, you’re blaming him again… what is your problem…?! I mean seriously, if ASR was on a date than it would have been good, in fact just coming on a friendly dinner like this was nice and you should have supported him in moving on instead you are pulling him back and throwing unnecessarily harsh words! Like what right do you have to demand answers from him…? Rishta kya hai tumhara ASR se jo usse aise accuse kar rahi thi…? Demanding explanations from him…?!” giving her a look.
She retorted: “I am his fiancé damn it!” with angry tears streaming down her face.
He thinned his lips, saying: “You WERE his fiancé… now you are MY WIFE, Mrs. Lavanya Samar Khurana…” and watched her turn pale while he continued, “You choose to be my wife and remain so, I didn’t force you at any point and so you chose our marriage over your relationship with ASR… then how can you make any claims on bases of that…? Seriously Lavanya make up your mind about what you want okay… you can’t go around bullying and tormenting ASR like this every time. One side you tell him to leave you alone, to move on and when he is take on step forward you rush to pull him five steps back… it can’t go on like this, you can’t hold onto me and hurt ASR while cause me pain also with such behaviour. Just because I don’t say anything and gave you space to sort yourself doesn’t mean I’ll tolerate everything, especially such bullshit attitude you are giving ASR and me which is totally unfair to us. There is still time Lavanya, if you want to go back to ASR, just tell me and I’ll give you divorce… but if you remain in our marriage then stop being hinderance in ASR’s life by constantly clinging to him. So, what will it be, Lavanya…?” looking at her very seriously.
She looked at him with teary eyes, replied: “Samar how can you say things like this to me…? What is wrong with you…?! And divorce, you know I can’t even think of it… Papa will be heartbroken and I can’t do that to him… Tum mujhe aisa kaise bol sakte ho…? Why are you talking to me like this…?” lips trembling as she tried to suppress sobs.
Instead of rushing to console her, he remained hard and said: “Then stick to your decision and stop interfering in ASR’s life… if you want to remain in this marriage so that your beloved Papa’s heart isn’t broken, fine with me. But you have to work on our relationship and stop clinging to ASR… let him go Lavanya, he doesn’t deserve the pain you are still inflicting on him after the way you jilted him. I mean honestly have you tried to think from ASR’s point of view how hard it is for him; his last memory was of you as his fiancé and he wakes up to reality of you being my wife… You didn’t wait for him, left his parents in time of need alone and now you are hurting him with your double standard behaviour… Yaar kis baat ka badla le rahi ho usse jo iss tarah behave kar rahi ho uske saath…?!” while she kept sobbing and he continued, “We all failed him in some way or the other and we’re still behaving with him unfairly… Anjali has gone off to Australia, Aman too left to Mumbai in his heartache, Yuvi and Mayuri too are in NYC while Bhai and Payal Bhabhi too happily moving on with their married life, are too out of country… none of us are here to support ASR, when he was there for all of us. I so want to go up to him but I know seeing me would only cause him more stress, so I maintain my distance but that doesn’t mean I don’t feel guilty for what I did to him… I married the girl he was engaged to because my parents wanted that, I caused him pain and I try not add more to it. But you Lavanya are a unique piece, instead of feeling guilty for ditching him like that… here you are portraying yourself as victim, I mean are you real…?!” looking at her in incredulously and expressing his displeasure at such behaviour of hers.
Lavanya cried: “I am sorry Samar; I know I am being unfair to you both… then again I can’t see him with someone else… But I can’t just walk out of our marriage without hurting Papa… What am I suppose to do…?!” said sounding vulnerable.
He signed, replying: “That’s not a justification for your actions which are completely wrong, you can’t hurt ASR just because you feel confused. And about seeing him with someone else, well start tolerating that just like he is seeing you as my wife because sooner or later he will get up and leave… that he will move on and Lavanya I won’t let you forever be hindrance in ASR’s way of moving on. And honestly, start owning up your faults instead of always trying to blame other or victimizing yourself!” and turned away from her.
His eyes went to the side mirror he saw ASR looking tried making way to his car with an arm around a girl beside him though he couldn’t see her properly except being in cute short dress with long braid as the girl was on other side. The girl to held ASR in a supporting manner and Samar wished that this girl to provide ASR the support that he needs… to make him move on and take his pain away. He glanced at his wife once and saw she didn’t see them, so without another word started the engine and pulled out of parking with his eyes on mirror as he saw ASR helping the girl in passenger seat as he pulls on main road.
.....
NEXT DAY
G.K. CONSTRUCTIONS, DELHI – 11:30 A.M.
Lavanya sat in her seat near the end of room at the conference room with professional face on though inside she as upset, since last night things have turned tensed between her and Samar. Even this morning he hasn't talked to her except in front of others putting up the façade of everything is normal between them though in private it wasn't much pleasant as she was angry at him too. She was upset about ASR's incident because she felt betrayed by him for being with another girl, friendly dinner or not while displeased with Samar's behaviour that instead of being sympathetic towards her, he scolded her. So, after coming to office today she had tried to know more about this new intern who is friends with ASR and hadn't gotten much except the girl joined as interior designer intern, is from abroad and very bubbly sort of person though she hadn't seen her. Lavanya paid attention to office gossips to know if there had been rumours about ASR being in-relationship with this girl but nothing of that sort, they are just friends and for now she was assured with that.
Soon others also arrived, her eyes went towards ASR seated in other end and to Samar too settled in his place which was two seats ahead from her then she turned to look in front at the head table. Sashi Gupta stands up to address everyone: “Well I know this staff meeting is called suddenly and we’ll keep this short as we need to make just few announcements. We are all here to thank our team for bagging the new residential society deal which a was major contract for G.K. Constructions, especially ASR for his brilliant plan.” and everyone clapped as they calmed, he continues, “On this occasion a success party has been arranged this Saturday and we hope to see you all, especially the team which worked. So, everyone will receive invitations by tomorrow and we’ll see you then, now you all can head back to your work…” took a step back.
Akshay too adds: “Thank you for your hard work and congratulation on this success, now you all can head back to work… and keep up the good work.” with a small smile as they both left with other senior management members, after which the stuff too got up to leave talking about weekend party.
Samar came beside her and she asked: “You knew about this…?” looking at him.
He nodded replying: “Yeah dad told me in the morning before you came down for breakfast. Anyways I wanted to tell you that I have quite a few meetings and video conferences lined up, so I’ll be late today evening. Can you go home alone…? Driver will drop you and bring back the car for me, you have any problem with it…?” asking her but she was busy staring somewhere else and her followed her line of vision to see ASR walking out with a girl beside him in short light-blue dress, heels and long hair pulled in fishtail braid. They both had back towards them but he could see the hand movements of the girls which he guessed as she talked about something excitedly while ASR turned sideways to look down at the girl, he saw the indulgent fond look with a small smile as he listened to her. It was nice to see that someone actually made ASR feel better with their presence as the pair walked out the room, as he turned to look at his wide and calls out, “Lavanya… Lavanya… LAVANYA!” a little loud making her snap out her thought.
Startled she blinked looking at Samar who gave her a look and she felt embarrassed, said: “Yes… ah you said something…?” averting her eyes while she thought back about ASR with that girl though again, she hadn’t seen the girl’s face.
Samar gave her look but repeated: “I’ll be late today evening, so can you go home alone…? The driver will drop you and bring the car back for me…” waiting for her reply.
She nods relying: “Yeah, it is fine…” and picked up her things to leave.
He nods as they both walk out and at the door he pauses and stops her too, said: “And Lavanya, stop trying to find about the new intern and stay away her… she is the only friend ASR has got, don’t make things worse for him than it already is.” and she was about to say something but he didn’t let her, “I know what are you doing since morning after coming to office and I know you since childhood, tumhe ache se jaanta hoon and that’s why am telling you to stop whatever meddling you are thinking about doing in ASR’s life. You have done enough already, he doesn’t need any more when you have made the decision to not go back to him… leave him alone Lavanya, uss mein hi sabki bhali hai.” and without waiting for her any response, left from there for his next meeting.
Lavanya stood there staring at her husband’s retreating back though biting her lower lip, feeling rather indecisive and uncertain. One hand, she was still in-love with ASR and couldn’t see him with anyone else but on the other hand she can’t break her marriage with Samar, her father will be very disappointed. So, she decided that it will be better to stay away from ASR for now and concentrate on her marriage, feeling secure with the knowledge that the girl was only ASR’s friend… anyways no one can replace her in ASR’s life and felt rather confident with this thought, she heads to her cabin to prepare for next meeting.
----FLASHBACK ENDS---
Tears kept rolling down her cheeks as recalled that evening and sobbed recalling the choices she made which she is regretting now for making them in first place. She shouldn’t have let the matter go so easily then, she should have made sure to have removed Khushi back then, thrown her away from ASR and maybe she wouldn’t have lost her love to that wretched girl. A hand on her shoulder brought her out of her thoughts and looked up to see her Di, who sat on bed beside her. Anjali asked: “What happened Lav…? Why are you crying…?” and Lavanya hugged her sister crying, who tried to console her, “Shhh… Lav don’t cry… will you tell me what happened…? Lavanya…? Shhhh… Just tell me what happened…?” patting her back.
Lavanya pulled back, wiping her tears replied: “Di… Di woh… I called ASR… I wanted to talk to him… and… and…” breaking into sobs again.
Anjali hushed her, said: “You called ASR at this late hour…?” to which her sister nodded, “So why are you crying…? He didn’t pick up…? Maybe he slept Lav, don’t cry about that just call him in the morning… by the way why were you calling him so…?” wondering the reason.
Sobbing Lavanya answered: “Woh Di… woh… I felt so sad and sort of jealous seeing you so happy and getting married to your love… I called him, to talk him out of his act and anger… to come back to be… Instead I… I heard him…” as she couldn’t speak anymore but Anjali urged her to proceed, “I felt tongue tied about what to say in nervousness and then he got irritated… ending the call… But I don’t think he checked it properly before chucking the phone… and I… and I heard ASR and Khushi…” at this her sister was frowning in confusion, “Di I heard… I heard them getting intimate… He was having sex with her… How could he do this to me, Di…? How can he be intimate with Khushi like that…? Why is he doing this to me, Di…? Why…?” sobbing again,“You know I feel such an idiot for not interfering or doing something about Khushi in the beginning itself… I should have then itself tried to make her stay away from ASR, maybe then today I wouldn’t have to see this day now… I should have given Samar divorce at the beginning itself and gone back to ASR… My choices are what that has pushed him away from me but what do I do now, Di…? How can I get him back…? Bolo na Di, please do something… I want my ASR back… Please kuch karo Di…” as she cried on her sister’s shoulder.
Anjali felt at loss, tried to console her: “Lav… am so sorry Lavanya, you had to hear that… I don’t know what to do about ASR anymore, I don’t understand why can’t he see how much he is hurting you, get over his stupid anger and come back to you… Don’t worry everything will be alright…” hugging her sister side-ways and thoughtfully said, “You know we don’t know about what happened in England, what all that Khushi has been feeding him for the last six years… So, maybe Lav we can use my wedding as an excuse to know about that as well as it will give you a chance to try and get near him out of professional atmosphere… after all don’t they say that weddings are best setting for love stories… what say…?” feeling good about think such a brilliant plan.
Lavanya looked at her hopefully: “Really Di… you think that will work…?” as the plan sounded nice to her too.
Anjali nods, saying: “Yeah I think it will work, after all we have to know about what was going on in ASR’s life for the past six years… we have to know what all she had been saying to him and how did she trap him in this marriage. Once we know that, we can easily counter-attack and get ASR back to you… my wedding will give us very good opportunity as they all will attend every function and we can take our friends help to maybe make ASR spill about past six years… if not him then some else among them.” thinking about it more.
Lavanya too brightened up at first but dulled a moment later: “I don’t think our friends would be of much help... I mean Samar, Tuli and NK for sure won’t help also Yuvi and Mayuri have started to side with Khushi. Aman is neutral though I know he isn’t much in support ever since getting to know that ASR is married to Khushi, I doubt Akash will be of much help… only Payal is in our side.” feeling disappointed at losing her most friends support.
Anjali replied: “That is fine… in fact even better, we can indirectly instigate others to prob ASR for details of last six years and I know Payal will help us for sure. We can use this in our favour and by the end of the wedding ASR will be with back to you, I telling you Lav.” cheering her up.
So, they talked for a little longer and then went to sleep as Lavanya felt lot better and more assured with the plan Anjali had proposed. She knew they need to plan it out more details about how to get it implemented but for now this was enough… soon she would know what web that Khushi had wavered to trap her ASR. What Lavanya didn’t know was the surprises ahead for not only her but the others too, they had no idea about how entwined Arnav was to his Khushi… well they sure have one surprise rollercoaster ride ahead of them.
.....
RAIZADA MANSION, DELHI – 03:50 A.M.
It was quite late or rather early in the morning as they laid wrapped in each other’s arms just having finished another round and now in post-coital bliss, just relishing the intimacy and exchanging little cherished kisses and loving touches. Khushi had her head on his chest while his one arm holding her to him and other hand held hers, playing with her fingers while pressing kisses once in a while, broke the silence by asking: “You remember the day you answered my question a week later in that party…?” as he tilted her head up a little to look at him as he stared down for few moments at her and nodded after he catch up and understood about what she is talking. She continued, “What made you reply…? Because honestly, I had thought I wouldn’t be getting one and neither was I expecting to but you did, though a few days later… Why…?” her gaze curious.
Arnav raised arched a brow at her, asking: “Really, we are having this conversation as our pillow-talk now…?” it wasn’t that he minded her question, he just wondered what brought this on.
She replied: “Yes we are having this conversation as our pillow-talk now because I just realized that you never told me the reason and I never asked you either… so why did you answer my question that day…?” looking at him curiously.
Knowing she won’t let it go and pulled her closer as he told her: “Because for a week you made me think about something else than the current mess my life was then… You brought that one person to the forefront of my mind whom I had buried in some hidden depths to never recall again. And I just couldn’t stop thinking about the possibilities and what if’s that your question filled my head with, then in the party and that song, just sort of brought all those memories… those wistful dreams and you were there for me share my thoughts, even then I could share anything with you. Mahiya, you have always been my confident and there wasn’t anything at any time in my life where I couldn’t share anything with you.” bending down to kiss her forehead lovingly while the memory of day floated in both their minds as they gazed in each other’s eyes.
---FLASHBACK---
ONE WEEK LATER
GREENWOOD APARTMENTS, DELHI – 07:00 P.M.
Arnav dressed in black shirt and trouser along with dark blue coat, looking quite handsome stood in front of Khushi’s flat as he knocked on her door. The success party was today and they both have decided to go together as it would be quite late to return from there which isn’t exactly safe time for girls to travel in Delhi even in personal vehicle. So, he had told her that they’ll go together and being neighbours made it convenient and she too agreed readily knowing her tendency to get in trouble without much effort, not that she was some helpless damsel but why take the risk of deliberately inviting trouble when one can avoid it.
The door opened few moments later to reveal a Khushi dressed in off-shoulder dark blue velvet blouse paired which showed-off her delicate shoulders with dark blue print-design long skirt as jewelleries she wore a necklace. Her hair was pulled back in a loose sophisticated low bun and with her usual minimal make-up, she looked fantastic and he could only stare at her with his jaw dropped, mesmerized by beauty. She stepped aside saying: “Hi Arnav and oh we match…” pointing to his outfit with a broad smiled, “Come inside…” and brought him out his splendour as he stepped in the apartment while she closed after him continues, “Well I am already, just let me get my purse, phone and keys along with checking once more if I have locked and switched-off everything then we can leave… you sit down…” motioning him towards the sofa, “Do you want something to drink… water…?” asked moving around.
He sat down on one of the comfy couches, replied: “Happiness I am fine, you just carry on and then we’ll leave.” easing her with a smile.
She smiled at him then went on to her to-do list tasks while his eyes just followed her around, he wasn’t blind to not see just how beautiful she is but today she just looked more dazzling. After ten minutes they were both in parking lot as he helped her in his SUV and then climbed in driver’s seat himself, starting the engine and pulling out of their society gates to main road. Khushi asked chirpily: “By the way, you didn’t tell me how am I looking…? And you are looking quite handsome, before you ask.” smiling brightly at him.
He glanced at her once before replying: “You look beautiful Happiness and I have my work cut out for me to keep other men off you because am sure everyone would be drooling all over you once they see you.” frowning at the thought unhappily but quickly shook himself out of it and comments, “This is the closest I have seen you to wearing Indian traditional, I bet you could look like a Barbie doll in saree though I think you could have left you hair open today… in fact I don’t recall seeing your hair open ever.” as he tried to remember.
She smiled saying: “Thank you so much, I promise to stick close to you tonight and let you hold me as possessively you want… About saree, hmmm maybe one day I’ll wear saree along with leaving my hair open and I bet you’ll fall in love with me the moment you see me. So, for now we’ll keep the saree and open hair plan aside… though any specific colour saree you want to see me the first time…?” with a little laugh and wiggling her eyebrows at him teasingly.
They had stopped at the signal, so he turned towards her and stared for few moments as he imagined her in saree along with long lush hair open, replied softly: “Hmm maybe I’ll really fall for you at that moment and red saree… I would definitely love to see you in red saree with your hair down one day…” looking at her intensely and she too stopped laughing under his intense gaze as her cheeks turned a fascinating delicate pink. He averted his eyes, the signal turned green and starting the engine as they moved towards the party venue while for the first time there was a spark of unknown between them while the silence was filled with the soft song that played on the radio and stealing shy glances at each other.
.....
PARTY HALL, LEELA PALACE, DELHI – 08:15 P.M
They had reached the venue thirty minutes ago and Arnav actually held Khushi quite possessively since the moment they had arrived seeing that literally men were drooling after her which had awakened some unknown beast inside of him and she was happily unaware of it. He stood with his arm around Khushi’s waist as they both talk to a client and he tightened his hold on her seeing the lingering eyes of the person. The other man knew to take hint and ran off quickly as Khushi dragged him around to mingle with few more guests and she kept praising him in front of them, sort of like bragging on his behalf while could only smile at her fondly. His eyes wandered around the hall and spotted Samar dressed in black and beside him was Lavanya in nude long-anarkali with pink dupatta and hair open… she looked pretty but somehow today his eyes only found Khushi beautiful, like mesmerizingly beautiful for some reason.
Lavanya from the other side of the hall had noticed ASR holding a girl rather possessively which made her jealous as hell and hence she made to cling close to Samar, so that he feels the same burn though she was unaware that ASR hardly took notice of her today. She was talking to some clients whom her father was introducing them to though her eyes were on ASR, today too she couldn’t see the girl with him properly as they were quite far along with lot of guests in between.
Then Akshay Khurana was on-stage, calling everyone’s attention: “Good evening ladies and gentlemen, thank you all for coming here… also a big round of applause for team which is the reason for this success party, especially ASR for bagging such big contract for our company.” and everyone clapped while Khushi smiled extra big looking at the said person beside her, clapping. Then continuing, “On this occasion, something special to celebrate tonight… what say…?” while all cheered in agreement, “So, I know many of you know how well ASR sings… what about a song from him…?” which lead to loud yes from all, “ASR you heard the people… on stage now…” calling him.
Arnav looked reluctant, said: “Ah no, not today… please spear me this time…” as he tried to get out of it but all encouraged while he denied.
Khushi turned to him, saying: “I didn’t know you can sing, Arnav… oh you have to sing now… please please one song, for me… of not for me, then for your missed girl… please agree, one song Arnav please…” giving him her best puppy face and pout.
He froze at her words as the thoughts of the person who hadn’t left since last week after her curious questions, resurfaced in his mind again. Then the pleading face of his Happiness, well he had to agree now and signing, he walks up the stage and talks to the orchestra while taking a guitar from them. He sat on the stool with mike in front of him adjusted and he spoke: “So, I am literally being cornered…” looking towards Akshay with mock accusation who raised his glass in cheers, “…along with getting blackmailed, not fair Happiness.” and gave her a mock look while she smiled brightly at him, “And since I am here, this song is not the typically party song but I heard it a while ago and seemed fitting to my mood, this song is something more of unsaid feelings… This song is dedicated to the girl whom I missed by a fraction every time, the girl who flattered like a butterfly in my life, always around me but I could never catch her. This is to the girl who has always occupied in my unconscious thoughts, my sweetest dreams and remains as my dearest desire, there isn't anyone like her… or I don’t know, maybe there is…” as his eyes went towards Khushi, who reminded him so much of Her at times, something he had thought he found in Lavanya though later proved to be wrong. But his Happiness has the same innocence like Her, he said, “Main hoon bhi aur nahi bhi uske bina, kabhi lagta hai kismet hai meri, kabhi lagta hai akhari dua… Ab koi aa ke yeh paheli suljhaye, mujko bas itna bataye… Ki iss pyaar ko kya naam doon…” lips upturned in a barely-there smile and a tender express on his face as he strummed the strings of the guitar and sang in his husky voice… (I am there and not without her, sometimes I feel like she is my destiny, sometimes feels like she is my last prayer… Now someone solve this riddle for me, just tell me this… what shall I name this love…)
“Ghar se nikalte hi
Kuch door chalte hi
Raste mein hai uska ghar”
Singing the lines his mind drifted to the memory lane that he hasn’t dared to travel in years but at that moment couldn’t stop himself from revisiting there again…
….
NINE YEARS AGO
HAMPTON HIGH, ENGLAND – 02:00 P.M.
It was Monday, fourteen years old Arnav Singh Raizada, now in high school and being the youngest to have gotten on his selected in his school rugby team was now seated on the bench outside the field waiting for the others to arrive while feeling a little nervous as to being the youngest now among seniors. His thoughts were broken by arrival of two senior teenage boys as they both plopped on either side of him casually along with dropping their respective kits near their feet, making him alert as he knew one of them was team captain.
The oldest boy spoke first after few moments: “Well I heard from coach that you are the youngest team member and apparently quite talented…” looking at him with curious blue eyes and Arnav nodded carefully, “Well congratulations, you made quite a lot of people jealous with getting selected in team so early and that includes my brother too.” pointing at the other teen and then went to introduce, “Hi I am Neev Ahlawat, eighteen years old, a senior and also team captain…” forwarding his hand for handshake with a dimple smile which was taken by the younger teen.
The other teenager said: “Hello I am Abir Ahlawat and I am a year older than you… congrats for making in the team so early, we look forward to see your performance.” with a friendly smile.
Arnav too shook his hand and replied: “Well hi I am Arnav Singh Raizada and you can call me Arnie.” giving them a boyish grin.
They both smiled back and Abir asked: “Nice to meet you Arnie, are you Indian…?” curiously looking at the boy.
Arnav nods: “Yeah but born and brought up in England… I am guessing from your names that you are Indians too…?” questioned back.
Neev answered: “Yeah, same as you… born and brought up here and this makes everything even more interesting.” they got in talking as the rest of the team along with coach arrived but since it was first day, only introductions were made and the practice starts next day while they all get to know each other. It was a forty minutes of chatting and initial team bond forming, after which everyone went to locker room to fresh and change, going back home for the day as they all joked and laughed like bunch of noisy teenage boys could be expected.
Everyone had left and now it was only Neev who sat on bench waiting for his brother to finish his shower while getting their bags while Abir was in shower and taking his sweet time and Arnav was putting on his clothes. At that moment Neev’s phone started to buzz and he picked it up with a smile: “Hello baby, what happened… have you reached home…?” and then listened to reply from other side, said, “That’s nice and so happy that you got such good grades in your test…” while keenly heard the reply from other side, “Oh so baby wants reward… what do you want, tell me and I’ll get for you while coming home…” and smiled at whatever reply he got, “Okay I’ll bring big tub of your favourite ice-cream, I promise baby… after all my Laado has asked so nicely…” and laughed lightly at the response he received, “So, I’ll keep the call now… will be home soon and I love you baby, bye.” ended the call still smiling.
Curious Arnav asked: “Who was that…? Your girlfriend…?” as he shrugged on his shirt.
Neev started saying: “No that was…” but saw his brother coming out of shower with towel wrapped around his waist and drying his hair, so addressed him, “Laado called, we’ll have to pick her favourite ice-cream on our way.” to which Abir just nodded readily and started putting on his cloths. Then he went to reply the earlier question, “That was my twelve years old little sister, Katya… apparently she got A in maths today and wants ice-cream.” with a soft smile.
Arnav raised a brow: “You both have a sister too… how many siblings are you…?” gathering his stuff in his gym bag.
Abir replied: “We are two brother and one sister… so three siblings…” pulling his shirt on.
Arnav nods, commenting: “Cool must be nice to have siblings, I am an only child… it tends to be boring at home at times.” then strapped his bag on his shoulder asked, “So what is your sister’s favourite ice-cream…?” looking at them.
Neev replied: “Ben and Jerry’s cookie dough and chocolate fudge.” getting up with his bag on shoulder too.
Arnav brightened up, replies: “I love that too, seems like your sister and my ice-cream choices are same… Hmmm your sister sounds cool.” making the older teens shake their head at such declaration of being cool at liking same ice-cream flavours. As they bid goodbyes and left for their respective homes as Abir and Neev got in their car which Neev drove and Arnav got in his car which driver came to pick him up while staring out the window his thoughts to the soft cute voice he had heard while Neev was talking on phone. He muttered softly under his breath, “Katya…” unaware of the weird flattering that his heart did at the name and a strange desire to hear the voice first hand, close.
“Pehli dafaa maine
Jab usko dekha to
Saansein gayi yeh thehar”
….
SIX DAYS LATER
BLACKWELL ACADEMY MARTIAL ARTS CENTRE, ENGLAND – 06:00 P.M.
“Rehti hai dil mein mere
Kaise bataaun usey
Main toh nahi keh sakaa
Koi bataa de usey”
Arnav entered the class, from today his classes were going to be taken by his new instructor who apparently teaches only one kid at a time, as the instructor is more of giving one-on-one to his student. From today his kickboxing is getting to advanced level along with weapon combat (obviously not real weapons will be used in practice as he is underage) soon and he was rather excited for it, also this instructor will help him in his shooting lessons too though his Mom wasn’t thrilled about this fighting classes but supported him considering his interest. He dropped his bag and sat on one bench waiting for his instructor and five minutes later the door opened, entered a tall handsome man with bulging muscles. The man quickly spotted him and turned towards him, said in friendly tone: “Hi, you must be Arnav Singh Raizada… I am Kabir Ahlawat, your new instructor…” forwarding his hand with deep dimple smile.
Arnav smiled back, replying: “Hello sir, it’s nice to meet you and I am so excited for starting up this schedule.” his voice reflecting his enthusiasm, standing up.
Kabir said: “Please not sir, you can just call me uncle as we’re going to building up trust bond between us as we train together. So, tell me something about yourself Arnav…” as he started the stretching exercises.
Arnav too followed with his stretching exercises, answered: “Then you can call me Arnie as everyone calls me that, I am fourteen years old, single child… study in Hampton High and got selected in school rugby team, apparently the youngest to make in team.” bending down to stretch his legs.
Kabir stretched his arms: “Ah, then you must know my boys… Neev and Abir…?” asked him.
Arnav looked at him little surprised: “You’re Neev and Abir’s father…?” to which his instructor nodded and continues, “Why do you take only special classes and not regular in this academy…?” curious about it.
Kabir replied easily: “I am part-time instructor her in this academy Arnie, so I take special classes as it helps me train myself regularly too… I am actually Assistant Commissioner in Scotland Yard.” stretching backwards.
Arnav gave him an awed expression, saying: “Woah, that is so awesome!” and stretched backward himself.
Kabir smiled at him: “Okay let’s get started with today’s schedule, starting with hundred kicks on the punching bag with each leg… come on…” as they both got started.
After almost two hours of exercise, they sat down and sipped water from their respective bottles while wiping the sweat and relaxing as today’s session was over. That was when Kabir’s phone buzzed and he picked seeing it was from home, said: “Hello…” and he smiled little hearing the voice from other side, “Hi Babygirl, you are back home from your ballet class…?” then paused to here the reply and said, “That’s nice, so this deserves a treat… you want ice-cream…?” and smiled widely at the happy cheer he received from his daughter, “Okay I’ll bring two big tubs of you favourite Ben and Jerry while coming home… I’ll keep the call now, see you soon bye and love you Sweetie.” cutting the call with a smile.
Arnav asked: “Katya…?” and Kabir nodded but silently raised a brow questioningly, “She called last week when we were in locker room after practice, that was when Neev said about his sister. She wants ice-cream again…?” wiping his face with his hand-towel.
Kabir replied: “Yes well Katya loves ice-cream and chocolates a little too much, especially ice-cream.” shakes head smiling, “So, we’ll get going and I see you tomorrow again then…” picking up his things and stood up, “Bye Arnie.” ruffled his hair and left.
Arnav sat for a few moments to relax, sipping his water and then got up, picking his things to go to locker room for a shower before leaving for home. His thoughts were about how he met three members of Ahlawat family and heard them all mentioning this Katya girl, who sounded really cute which made him very curious about her. Shaking his head at his thoughts, he showered, changed and got his bag then made his wait outside where his car was waiting for him, to go home.
“Ghar se nikalte hi
Kuch door chalte hi
Raste mein hai uska ghar”
….
TWO AND HALF YEARS LATER
AHLAWAT HOUSE – 04:30 P.M
Seventeen years old Arnav was at Ahlawat house this Saturday afternoon for lunch casually as over the years he had formed good friendship with Neev and Abir while Kabir was still his instructor which meant over the years gotten familiar with Ahlawat family, regularly visited them too. Right now, he sat in the comfortable living room alone waiting for his driver’s arrival to pick him up, looking around at the pictures especially the baby pictures of Katya on the fireplace shelf, the mysterious member about whom he had heard so much that it feels as if he knew her but never really met.
Rukshida came from kitchen carrying another bowl of ice-cream and handed it to Arnav who took enthusiastically from her and she sat down on the other end of the sofa smilingly. She comments: “Arnie, you are as crazy for ice-cream as my Katya is...” shaking her head. Neev had left twenty minutes ago for extra rugby practice of University team, Abir had gone for a project group study to his friend’s house an hour ago while Kabir had gone to office for some emergency case, Katya had apparently gone to her best friend’s house to provide a shoulder to cry since her pet cat died this morning… basically it was only two them in the house at the moment.
Arnav replied: “Auntie don’t tell me about it… I swear it is easier to meet the Queen of England than it is to see your elusive daughter, I am now starting to think that you are deliberately keeping her hidden from me.” spooning ice-cream in his mouth. She laughed and he continues, “What it is true, I mean I have known your family over two years and met you all somewhere or the other except you daughter about whom I have heard the most from you all. I mean seriously, how come every time she is not there when I visit… tell the truth, you all have deliberately kept her hidden, right…?” with a teasing smile.
She grinned saying: “Yes we have kept her hidden since you are such a lady charmer, what if you charm my almost fifteen years old daughter…” playing along.
He rolled his eyes and said: “Well then don’t you think I should be the one to be on caution, after all you are so beautiful auntie and I can only guess how pretty your daughter is going to be… what if I fell in love with her at first sight…? I think I am more danger than her.” wiggling his eyebrows and smiled widely as he puts a spoonful of ice-cream in his mouth.
She shook her head smiling: “You are such a flirt Arnie, anyways are you going to be coming to Katya’s birthday party this time...? It's two weeks later and you can finally meet her then.” asked him.
He shakes head in denial: “No auntie, going on a tournament out of town that week and seems like I am going to miss the party again though I’ll make sure to send her gift like every year. You know its like the world is conspiring against me to me from meeting your Katya.” pouting at all the missed chances over the years.
Rukshida said: “That’s sad, it would have been nice if you could have attended even Katya wants to see you and she loves your gifts the best like you know, maybe next time you both can meet.” and thought it was really a strange game of hide-and-seek that fate seems to be playing with Arnav considering how he misses meeting her daughter every time, it is sort of amusing.
They both chatted for a while as he finished his ice-cream, his driver had arrived and Arnav left bidding Rukshida goodbye though somewhere he felt disappointed for not meeting Katya again. But this fate’s hide-and-seek only increased his desire to see and talk to her along with the knowledge of her desire to meet him as much as he did, made him feel better and giddy in a strange way.
“Uski gali mein hai dhali
Kitni hi shaamein meri
Dekhe kabhi woh jo mujhe
Khush hoon main itne mein hi”
….
TEN DAYS LATER
HAMPTON HIGH, ENGLAND – 03:00 P.M.
Arnav sat in locker room bench, showered and changed after practice while others left but he sat here waiting as his driver was going to late to pick him up and only team member was Abir left who had gone to talk to coach. He was playing on his phone when a phone buzzed and he looked around searching for it but it stopped, so shrugging he turned back to his game. Few moments later again that phone buzzing sound and looking around he finally spotted Abir’s bag on opposite bench which had the buzzing phone in side pocket. Without thinking much, he picked up the call thinking it to important if the person was calling after it ended and spoke: “Hello…” sounding casual.
A moment later from the other side came a soft voice, which sounded like sweet as honey to him: “Hello… who are you…? You are not my Bhai…” said the person.
Arnav replied easily: “Actually Abir has gone to talk to coach and I saw the phone ringing continuously and picked it up… who is this…? I can take the message or call him if it is an emergency.” offered nicely.
The person on other side said: “I am Abir Bhai’s sister, Katya… who are you…?” wanting to know his name.
He froze for a moment hearing who was on the other side and quickly snapped out of it: “Hi, I am Arnav Singh Raizada… you might have heard about me earlier from your family. Anyways, why did you call Katya…?” asked her and feeling excited to have a direct conversation with her.
Katya said from other side: “Oh Arnav, its so nice to finally talk to you…” and he could hear the smile in her voice and his name never sounded better than it did at the moment, she continues, “I just needed a little help with my algebra homework but… anyways let it go, I’ll call Bhai Saheb or dad or maybe wait for Bhai or mom to come home… it’s okay, I’ll just hang up now.” said not wanting to trouble him.
Arnav hurriedly said: “Noooo…” rather loudly which startled her and he composed himself quickly saying, “I mean I am quite good in algebra; I can help you… tell me…” not wanting to end the call so soon.
She replied: “No it’s okay, I don’t want to trouble you Arnav… I’ll do something else…” tried refusing.
He says: “No its fine and I am really good in algebra, you can tell me I’ll help you… please Katya…” sweetly encouraging her.
She was silent for few moments and then said finally: “Okay if you are sure…” sounding bit hesitant.
After that they talked over forty minutes with him helping her with her homework and thanking him, she kept the call while he had a huge smile on his face as he stared at the phone in his hand. Abir came there and asked: “Arnie you haven’t gone home yet…? What are you doing with my phone and smiling like that…?” looking at him curiously.
Arnav snapped out of his thoughts and composed him, replying: “My driver is late today to pick me, so I was waiting for him sitting her. Anyways, your phone was ringing continuously and I picked it up thinking if it was an emergency or not, I hope you don’t mind…” forwarding the phone continued, “It was your sister and she wanted some help with her maths homework, so I helped her …” then got up from the bench and took a little gift from his bag, handing him said, “This is Katya’s birthday gift, please give it to her on my behalf on her birthday and anyways, my driver has arrived… bye Abir.” picked up his bag and left before he could be interrogated though there was a smile on his face and though he mentally hit himself for not talking to her more or something. He was happy to finally getting a chance to talk to her directly and she had such a sweet voice, he thought smilingly while walking out of school doors to parking lot and got in the car, happy for now with having at least getting the chance to talk to her.
“Maine tareeke sau aazmaaye
Jaake usey na kuch bol paye
Baithe rahe hum raat bhar”
….
ONE WEEK LATER
HAMPTON HIGH, ENGLAND – 02:40 P.M
Today the practice got over early and while others have already left excepted for Abir who was talking to coach again being the captain this year. Arnav just finished wearing his clothes and was keeping his things in his bag when a buzzing of a phone broke the silence making him look around frowning in search of the source. He quickly spotted Abir’s phone ringing and picked it up, saying: “Hello…” holding the to his ear.
From other side same soft voice: “Hello… Arnav…?” little hesitant and hopeful.
Arnav immediately recognized the voice, stood straight: “Katya… Hi, how are you…?” said with a smile, god know why he gets all giddy when it comes to her and he has yet to meet her face-to-face.
She replied from other side: “I am fine, how are you…? And how was your tournament, Arnav…?” asked him sweetly.
He said: “It was fine, sorry I missed your birthday again… by the way, belated happy birthday, did you like my gift…?” wanting to know.
Katya replied: “Thank you so much and it was lovely… I really loved the bracelet charms and already added it to my bracelet.” with a smile in her voice.
Arnav says: “That’s nice, I have heard a lot about how much you like wearing bracelets and how you keep buying them over the years and when I saw those charms, I thought you might like it. Anyways, you calling Abir now…? He is with coach; you want help with your homework or something again…?” asked the reason for her call.
She answered: “Oh I know that already, I called in hopes that maybe I can talk to you… ah to thank you for your gift Arnav.” sounding shy.
He smiled broadly and replied: “You are welcome Katya…” ruffling his back hair and felt giddy.
They both were silent after that, sort of smiling and blushing and she hurriedly cut the call, feeling rather shy while he had a boyish grin plastered on his face, so it was official now that Arnav Singh Raizada had a serious crush on Katya Ahlawat, the girl he hasn’t met or seen yet. He kept Abir’s phone back in his bag side pocket it was and shouldered his own bag, making way out of locker room with a spring in his step while a new sort of giddiness excited him.
“Jo paas jaata hoon
Sab bhool jaata hoon
Milti hai jab yeh nazar”
….
ONE YEAR LATER
OXFORD UNIVERSITY, ENGLAND – 04:30 P.M.
Arnav just got out of shower and started to wear his cloths, today was first match of the season and his first game in University rugby team felt rather happy for having won too. He asked Veer: “Hey bro, where is Neev and Abir…?” not seeing them around while pulling his pants on and picked his shirt to wear.
Veer casually replied: “Oh they left already, apparently their sister had some ballet rehearsal or something for which they needed to leave early.” as he dried his hair.
Arnav shrugged his shirt on: “Katya came to see the match…? She is here…?” looking at his best friend in astonishment.
Veer looked at him frowning: “Ah yeah…” feeling bit bewildered.
He exclaimed: “What the! Why didn’t you say that earlier… when did they leave…?” tone urgent.
Feeling more confused, Veer replied: “Just few minutes ago, they must have just gotten to parking lot or something.” and watched as his best friend dashed out of locker room like blood hounds were after him, so he threw his towel over his back to rush after him.
Arnav dashed out the locker room in hopes to meet or at least to see Katya as he ran while dodging or colliding with the students through the corridor while mumbling apology without stopping. He rushed the stairs, ascending down and the parking lot was in front of him, spotting Kabir’s SUV ahead but quite far from him. He saw Rukshida getting in passenger side with Neev and Abir in backseat following lastly was a petite girl in cute pale-red dress and long open hair cascading down her back and pushed her hair behind her ear as she got inside closing the door, then the car pulled out of University gates. At that moment an eighteen years old Arnav Singh Raizada had gotten the first glimpse of sixteen years old Katya Ahlawat and lost his heart to her for forever. He came to a sudden halt, bends down panting but felt disappointment for having missed his chance again, though this time he got a tiny glimpse of her but she was far to have gotten a proper look which made him stomp his feet in frustration.
Veer too came to a sudden stop beside him few moments later panting, asked: “Bro why did you come running here like this…?” trying to catch his breath.
Arnav replied distractedly: “To meet Katya but they left...” still staring ahead where he had seen her and the first glimpse of her which made his heart go ‘dhak-dhak like never before and his hand went to the left side of his chest.
Veer gave him a weird look: “Why…?” questioning him.
Arnav came out his trance, replied: “Hmm nothing, come on let’s get our bags from boy’s locker and then we’ll go home.” turned around to walk away without giving his best friend any choice other than follow him.
Veer followed him while muttering about best friend’s weird behaviour and unnecessary running they make you do though Arnav wasn’t paying much attention to it. They had grabbed their stuff and left for home after that, without any further conversation about what happened a while ago as he was too lost to have paid much attention to anyways. The next day when Arnav had gone for movie with Veer at a mall, he had ended up buying something without letting his best friend know, his first gift for the girl who seemed to have occupied his thoughts even more forcefully since the first glimpse of her that he got. The card stuck on the wrapped jewellery box read ‘My dear Mahiya... always love you with all my heart, my Mahi…’
“Ghar se nikalte hi
Kuch door chalte hi
Raste mein hai uska ghar”
….
TEN MONTHS LATER
AHLAWAT HOUSE, ENGLAND – 12:38 A.M.
It was late at night when he pulled his car in front of Ahlawat house and got down hurriedly, his mind still reeling from the terrible news he received an hour ago and could hardly believe it. The whole locality was dark as it was quite late at night along with power failure in the area, he quickly run up the steps and knocked on the door, waiting to be opened. He heard shuffling sound, a peek out from window and then moment later door was opened to reveal the tearstained face of Amaya who stepped aside to let him in. They stood at the hallway and she closed the door, saying: “Thank you so much for coming immediately like this Arnie, I just couldn’t leave her alone like this because you know how scared she is of being alone in dark and that too in this situation… but I have to go to hospital, Neev called and he needs me there.” turning to face him.
Arnav waves it off: “No it is fine; in fact, I am glad you called me… how is Neev and Abir holding up…? And Katya…? I still can’t believe it; I mean I just talked to Kabir uncle and Rukshida auntie this evening and now they are no more.” seemed distressed and in disbelieve.
Amaya replied: “Neev and Abir are barely holding up while Katya is inconsolable since they got the news of the accident but both of them had to rush to hospital leaving her here with me. Rukshida auntie died on spot from the impact while Kabir uncle was critical and in ICU before a while ago he left us too… stupid drunk drivers!” cursed sobbing and wipes her tears, “Anyways, Neev needs me there but I couldn’t leave Katya alone, even he didn’t want that so I suggested to call someone to be with her… at first I had thought to call her best friend Ishaani or drop her at their place but they are out of town, even my family is not in town while Sana too has gone hospital to be with Abir. So, I called you and thank you much for coming like this Arnie…” she said gratefully.
He says: “It’s really no problem Amaya, you go now and I’ll be here with her until you guys come back… now go fast.” assuring her to look after Katya.
Amaya nods at him and hurriedly went to living room, probably to talk to Katya before leaving and came back few minutes later, said to him: “She is sitting in living room, curled up and rigid with only tears streaming down her face… see if you can make her react, to cry out loud and maybe put her to sleep. Katya is so devastated and has been just curled up like a statue, I don’t know how both the brothers will react seeing her like this.” shaking her head and then grabs her jacket, “Okay then I’ll leave now…” and went out while he closed the door after her.
Arnav stood on the hallway leaning against the door for a moment and gathering the strength to hold the girl who needs support of someone the most. He straightened up and walked slowly down the hallway to the living room which was dimly illuminated with few candles lit around the room making it barely visible to see around. The candle light didn’t chase away the darkness rather added to the gloominess while his eyes got stuck on the curled-up figure on the couch with head down and long hair covering her. He stood on the entryway silently staring at her though still he couldn’t see her face or tears but the slight trembling told him all about her silent cries, this wasn’t how he was hoping to meet her in person.
Few moments later he walked up to her and sat down beside her silently, puts an arm around her to which she at first stiffened rigidly, saying in hushed whispers: “Shhh it’s just me… I am so sorry Katya that this happened… so sorry…” pulling her close and in his lap as he caressed her hair with one hand.
She immediately recognized him and buried her face in his chest, breaking apart in the comfort of his arms: “Ar-- Arnav… Mum-- Mumma… Da-- Daddy… They ar-- they are… not coming back… Arnav… How can they leave like this…? They said… they’ll be back from dinner soon… I want them back… I want my Mumma Daddy… Arnav… I want them back, Arnav…” said crying and sobbing, clutching fistful of his shirt tightly.
He blinked back his tears seeing her like this as he continued to holding her with his chin resting on her head, hushing her softly: “Shhh it’s going to be okay… it’s going to be okay Mahiya… I am sorry that I can’t bring them back for you, but if I could then I would have… I am so sorry that you are hurting like this, Mahi…” consoling her, wishing nothing more than to take her pain away but this was something that was out of anyone’s control.
They were in that position for over two hours with her crying sitting in his lap, wrapped in his arms and face buried in his chest while he just held tightly onto her. Then slowly her sobs reduced and in exhaustion of so much crying and stress fell asleep but he sat there cradling her close to himself though he pulled back a little, lifting his one hand to move her hair aside to see her face when the sound of door opening made him snap to look that way. Few moments later walked in Neev and Abir, both looked devastated but stopped at the entryway staring at the sight they made on the sofa but silently walked in.
Neev asked: “She cried…? Is she okay…?” whispered softly, looking down at his sister in his friend’s arms.
Arnav replied whispering: “As much as she can be given the circumstance and cried herself to sleep… She is shattered bro, will need you both when she wakes up… how are you both holding up…?” asked them concerned.
Abir said: “Managing, still can’t believe mom and dad are not coming back…” averted his eyes as he wiped a tear from the corner of his eyes.
Then they were all silent for few moments and Neev said: “Thanks for staying and looking after Katya, now give her to me, I’ll put her in bed and you can go home.” offered, starting to bend down to pick his sister.
Arnav immediately tightened his hold on her and inched back saying: “Nooo…” which was rather loud and she squirmed in distress, he quickly hushed her back to sleep. Then turned towards other two who were looking at him strangely, he hurriedly says, “Ahhh I mean... I mean you both just came from hospital and haven’t freshened up or changed, so I’ll put Mah-- I mean Katya in bed… it would be better if you don’t touch her before taking shower and changing, hospital germs and all.” providing the sound excuse.
Neev back off at that and Abir nodded in agreement too as Arnav got up from the sofa carefully holding Katya in his arms as her face was leaned over his shoulder and her long hair obstructing his view. Anyways, without much thought Neev told Abir to head to his room to shower and change while picking up two candles, leading Arnav to Katya’s room to put her in bed. He followed silently and then entering the room Neev went to place the candle on the table, so his sister won’t get afraid of dark. Arnav entered after him and was carefully placed her on bed, as to not to wake her up and she seemed little distressed at first which he quickly smoothened her, pulling the covers over her and bending down to place a kiss on top of her head. He moved back a little, raised his hand to move her hair aside but Neev’s movement behind him reminded of another presence and started to straighten up quickly only to be stopped by her fist clutching his shirt.
He paused at staring at the little hand gripping his shirt and carefully freed himself than straighten up in time for Neev turned around to look at them and missed all that happened behind his back. Then both of them silently crept out the room though the door was left half-open as they went downstairs and Arnav left bidding good night. It took him thirty minutes to reach him Raizada Mansion and silently he went inside, opening the door using spare keys as he went up to his room quietly while his parents have slept since it was over two in the morning. He signed heavily closing the door of his room and leaned back tiredly then straightened up, taking towel and his nightwear from wardrobe, entering washroom to freshen up. As he put the things on counter and went to remove his shirt, something glinted in the mirror and caught his eyes, looking down was a gold with a diamond charm bracelet stuck on his shirt which he removed it and held in his hand.
Staring at the bracelet, muttered: “Must have gotten stuck when she held on to me…” and fingered lightly over the ‘happiness’ inscribed and despite the tragedy his lips curved upwards lightly as he held something that belongs to her, his Mahiya.
“Kal jo miley woh raahon mein
Toh main usey rok loon
Uske dil mein kya hai chhipa
Ik baar main poochh loon”
….
FIVE DAYS LATER
AHLAWAT HOUSE, ENGLAND – 06:30 P.M.
Arnav went to Ahlawat house to see how they were doing holding themselves as he rang the doorbell and Abir opened the door. He stepped inside and Neev was present too, both the brothers looked rightfully distorted as he took seat, asking: “Hey bro, how are you both holding up…?” still not himself able to believe that Kabir Uncle and Rukshida Auntie are no more.
Neev replied: “Managing, we can’t break down or fall apart as we have to look after Katya now.” as his brother sat beside him, nodding in agreement.
Arnav asked: “And how is she holding herself…? Where is she now anyways…?” remembering the way, she broke down in his arms few days ago and hoped to meet her.
Abir answers: “Katya has gone to her Ishaani’s house for sleepover and we thought it might be good for her too. As it is, she is barely holding herself, keeps bursting into tears all of a sudden… I am scared that like this she’ll fall ill or something.” concerned for his sister.
Neev adds: “Yeah but at least Amaya is here along with Sana, they both have been tremendous help while dealing with Katya, giving her emotional support that only females seemed to provide… I don’t know what we both would have done without them.” feeling grateful for the presence of both the girls in their lives and Arnav nods in understanding while he continues, “We have decided that it will best to send Katya to boarding school for her next school year which is about to start in three weeks, as I have just joined my new job while Abir is in his final year. We bachelors can’t really look after a teenage girl, so as much as it pains us the best option is to send her to boarding now, our parents have left enough that it shouldn’t be a trouble to look after Katya’s needs before we both could stable ourselves to provide for her.” looking rather pained for having said that, even Abir looked devastated with this decision.
Arnav felt a lump stuck in his throat at the thought of her going away but there wasn’t anything he could say when her guardians have decided for her. And it was really for the best if thought logically but that didn’t reduce the ache that came with the knowledge of knowing that she’ll go far away from his reach… that didn’t stop him from worrying about how is she going to handle everything alone, who will be there to hold her when she needs to break down. But he clutched his jaws and kept his mouth shut even though he wanted nothing more than to carry her off somewhere far way with him, shaking his head at such juvenile thoughts and talked to the Ahlawat brothers some more then bidding them goodbye, leaving to go back home.
“Par ab wahaan woh rehti nahi hai
Maine suna hai woh jaa chuki hai
Khaali pada hai yeh shehar...”
….
ONE YEAR LATER
HAWTHORNE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, ENGLAND - 03:30 P.M.
Arnav Singh Raizada was twenty when he went to the airport to bid Neev and Abir and their fiancées farewell, they all were leaving England for respective assignment which was co-incidentally in same city. Veer was with him too as they hugged them all and after a while it was time so they went inside, after which Arnav signed heavily, feeling sort of little bereft. It has been a year since Kabir and Rukshida passed away after which Katya was send to hostel and he had kept contact with Neev and Abir which meant he got constant news about her. But now that they left, he knows it will hard to maintain regular contact with absolutely no way of knowing about or seeing Katya anymore and swallowed the lump in his throat. Even today she couldn’t come to airport as she was in her University and had important classes, her family had gone to meet her last time before coming to airport and since he came directly here with Veer to bid his farewells… basically he bid his goodbye to Katya too in his mind along with her family.
Veer kept a hand on his shoulder, asked: “Arnie are you okay…?” looking at him concerned.
He nodded and said: “I am fine Veer, don’t worry… come on we should get going.” though his voice sounded bit hoarse with suppressed emotions.
Veer didn’t prob him with questions and they both walked to parking as Arnav slid a hand in his pocket feeling the bracelet that he has been carrying around with him ever since it had gotten stuck on his shirt. Seems like it was time to let go off Katya because his Mahiya just became unreachable to him, he thought and got inside the car in passenger seat as he didn’t feel like driving while silently staring out of window while Veer drove them back home.
“Main phir bhi jaata hoon
Sab dohraata hoon
Shayad miley kuch khabar”
….
Arnav shook his head as he came out of his memories to the present, looking around the smiling faces of all the guests as he sang the last lines and strummed guitar finishing the song…
“Ghar se nikalte hi
Kuch door chalte hi
Raste mein hai uska ghar”
He signed lightly and felt little nostalgic while everyone broke in applause and he got up bowing once, kept the guitar on the chair after that got down of the stage. Few guests complimented him as he passed them but not wanting to mingle and get away from everyone, made his way to the balcony where no one was present. He silently sat down on the bench seat and puts a hand in his pocket, pulling out the bracelet that he has been carrying with him for last five years… even after being in relationship with Lavanya, he hadn’t been able to part with the memories of Katya.
His musing was broken by someone sitting beside him and he glanced side-ways to see Khushi who just sat with him silently, not asking or demanding anything but providing her presence like always. He signed and spoke breaking the silence: “She is my friend’s sister whom I had talked twice on phone, seen from afar once, given her a shoulder to cry but never seen or met her properly. If I had the chance to get her back in my life now then I would grab it with both my hands, even though I don’t feel worthy of her anymore.” voice sounding wistful.
Khushi tilted her head sideways asked: “And why do you feel like that…? Arnav, you are one of the best people I have met, a perfect gentleman… why would you think like that…? I think that girl will be lucky who finally has you in her life.” with a sweet smile.
Arnav replied with a sad smile: “Maybe I was once upon a time but now, not so much… Happiness you don’t know much about my relationship with Lavanya and I know you know enough as it is probably the most happening gossip of office… but you don’t know what it all did to me.” and he tried to explain, “Being with Lavanya hasn’t been easy and definitely not the best relationship I have had but for some reason I just couldn’t let go off her. I know how much off my self-esteem and self-worth she had made me question, doubt myself but despite that I just couldn’t let go off her, even now… I know it is not healthy but I can’t help it. You see this bracelet…” looking down at the gold bracelet with ‘happiness’ inscribed in his hand, “I have been carrying this with me for last five years, even after being in relationship with Lavanya I haven’t been able to let go of it, of her memories. But Lavanya has broken me in such a way that I don’t know anything anymore… she isn’t coming back to me but neither is she giving me closure to move on and I feel like I am stuck in a limbo, where I know I should move on but still I can’t. My life is such a mess and I don’t know what to do anymore or how to fix it, this makes me feel unworthy of her… or to drag her in the mess that my life has turned into.” feeling rather frustrated and disappointed, fingering the bracelet and looked up at her.
She nods at him understandingly and said: “You are not a mess Arnav; it is just that accident has taken a lot more from you than you realize and you are feeling lost, trying to find something familiar to hold onto… you are still finding your way of coping and adjusting. Also, I think your bracelet girl would love to meet you someday and you should find her once you go back home, see how that works out for you.” with an encouraging smile and cheerfully says, “You know what, first thing you do after returning to England is ask your bracelet girl on a date…” proposing her brilliant plan.
He chuckles a little and looks at her: “You really think so…?” and Khushi nodded enthusiastically, he continues, “Okay fine then I assure you, when I get my closure here and if I return to England without Lavanya, my first task would be finding my bracelet girl to return her bracelet and ask her on a date… after all the worse she could do is say no.” adds with a small smile.
She smiling says to him: “I assure you that there is no way she will say no to you, so promise me that you’ll ask her on date the moment you see her in front of you…?” forwarding her hand to him asking his promise.
He puts a hand on hers and said: “I promise Happiness, the moment I know who she is, I am going to ask her on a date with me… provided that she is single.” adding in the end as an afterthought.
Khushi smiles widely, replied: “Nope, I am sure she is very much available and readily agreeable when you find her though you have to work on securing her… so I hope you’ll have your A-game ready to woo her.” with a twinkle in her eyes for some reason that he didn’t understand. She got up pulling him too, “Now come on let’s go and have dinner, I am so hungry that I could eat the whole buffet alone.” and Arnav laughed, pocketing the bracelet carefully and followed after her inside the party hall making way towards the buffet area.
---FLASHBACK ENDS---
They both snapped out of their recollection of that day’s memories and Arnav says thoughtfully: “You know six years ago, more than wanting Lavanya back in my life I wanted a proper answer from her… I wanted more than her ‘my father wanted me to marry Samar and that is why I married him even though I still love you’… I deserved more than that, better than that. I deserved to know why she couldn’t have waited at least a year for me to wake up before she married someone else… in fact it was hardly one and half month before she married Samar, at least she could have seen six months before giving up on our relationship… How could she and her family have left my parents alone in that situation…? How could my so-called friends do that, even Payal and Yuvi… they knew my parents for years, heaven’s sake! I know that Veer stayed with them all along, Tuli kept in touch from Mumbai and heck your family were in constant contact with my parents from England despite everything… So how could everyone here be so insensitive and left my parents alone like that…? It’s hard to forgive them knowing this sort of insensitive behaviour… for these things. And really what more is that they never understood that for them four months had passed but for me it was overnight, that my last memory was Lavanya being my fiancé and now I wake up to the reality of her being wife of someone else. I might have not really loved Lavanya… that I was heavily infatuated with her and she might have been the closest replacement I got of my Dreamgirl but it’s not so easy to let go off an almost two years relationship... letting go that girl I got engaged to and did so much to get to the point we were. In the span of our relationship I had formed attachments with her and it wasn’t easy to just let it go with some half-baked explanation, especially with her conflicting behaviour. One side Lavanya used to say that I need to move on… that she is now Samar’s wife and then suddenly when she saw me with someone else or I really tried to move on, she was on my case and pulling me back. She is such a confused soul that she was holding on to Samar from one side and not letting me go completely on the other hand… she just kept clinging on to me. I realize now that if I hadn’t dropped everything and left suddenly from here than Lavanya wouldn’t have let go off me so ever while kept latching to Samar as she hurts him with her behaviour. That girl really has no idea what she wants, she can’t stick to her decisions or commitments and she absolutely has no value for people or their feelings… she just takes all for granted… She had taken me and our relationship for granted, she had never properly respected Samar as her husband or their marriage. Despite such absurd behaviour on her part, she always demands things to be done\ her way and never take blames for her decisions… Lavanya Gupta has some serious issues, I swear and I am glad to have escaped her, that accident was a blessing in disguise or else I would have been stuck with her and never got you in my life, Mahiya.” bending his face to kiss her forehead lovingly as he snuggled her closer to him.
She nuzzled and kissed his chest replying: “Well I won’t say that I am happy about the accident as you were lucky to have barely survived it though I am happy that the series of events finally led you to me… Or more like I came after you… I love you Jaana, I love you so much.” holding him tightly.
He kissed her lazily, said: “I love you too Mahiya… so much, more than life itself. Now come on let’s get some sleep, it is already four in the morning. Good night love…” as they both wrapped in each other’s arms comfortably and closed their eyes, quickly falling asleep with cute smile of holding their love, their world in their arms.
.....
PRECAP: Anjali’s wedding invitation to Raizada and Ahlawat family… what can go wrong in that, right…?
.....
[NOTE: There is a flashback sequence going on during the song which is also a flashback… so basically it is a flashback in a flashback.]
GUPTA HOUSE, DELHI – 09:30 P.M.
The Gupta family were happily chatting with Mr. Om Mathur and Mrs. Anita Mathur, Aman Mathur’s parents as they all settled down in living room after hearty dinner, now to have desserts. They all sat down with their own bowl of sweets on the couches in one was Sashi with Garima and Nani besides him. On the opposite couch sat Om along with his wife Anita and son Aman while Lavanya and Anjali sat side by side on a loveseat as the adults continued with their talks about fixing the marriage date. Om says: “Sashiji it has been months now that Aman and Anjali have gotten engaged, I think now it is high time to get them married… what do you think…?” smilingly glanced at the said couple who blushed sitting in their place.
Others too smiled at them and Sashi nodded: “Yes you are correct, even I think it is high time that they get married now… Now you talked to Panditji or should we talk to our family Pandit for auspicious date…?” asked politely.
Anita replies: “Bhai Saheb we talked to our family Pandit and he has given us few dates and the best one we feel is 26 of next month. That should give us enough time to arrange everything otherwise there were no dates for another six months after that and we don’t want to wait that long. What you all think…?” eating a spoonful of her dessert after asking.
Sashi looked at his wife and mother-in-law as they nodded, he turned to Mathur’s, said: “Well we too have no objections, so wedding is on 26 of next month and the pre-wedding rituals will start a week prior, from 20… that should be enough. Aap logo ko koi aitraaz toh nahi…?” putting forward his suggestion.
They all agreed happily and everyone congratulated each other as Aman and Anjali exchanged loving smiles and did gesture-silent talks to express how excited they were at the prospect of getting married finally. The conversation shifted to wedding arrangements and guest list while Aman and even usually bold Anjali seemed shy, as they both gave their opinions and Lavanya teased them. In conversation Anita says: “I heard from Aman that full Raizada family is here in India, so are you also going to send invitation from your family side Sashiji…? Because one invitation from our side will be going to their family as Mr. Manav Singh Raizada are Omji’s business associates and Ahlawat family will also be invited from our side.” making the Gupta family go silent with her question.
Sashi replied: “Yes we’ll also be sending them invitation from our side also as you know the joint venture we are doing with their company, so everyone here from their team is going to get invited from our side.” trying to sound as normal as possible.
Om and Anita simply smiled and moved on to another topic while Garima and Nani too smilingly engaged them as Sashi silently sat nodding and giving his input from time to time but his eyes were on his younger daughter whose smile has now fake. The reminder of Raizada’s and Ahlawat’s made Lavanya’s genuine smile and happiness turn into fake as at the mention for their names brought the unpleasant reality to the forefront of her mind. Lavanya was happy for her Di finally getting married to her love but this made her heart prick somewhere, she was also this happy when she was getting engaged to ASR… if only things hadn’t turned out the way they in present. She swallowed the lump that seemed to be stuck in her throat as a sudden urge to cry overwhelmed her but she controlled herself as to not ruin things for her sister.
.....
THREE HOURS LATER
Lavanya was pacing her room from the last hour with her phone in her hand and ASR’s contact open, she wanted to call him but it was quite late which made her hesitate as it was past midnight. But she had this urge to talk to him, today seeing her Di’s glowing face reminded her of the time when she had gotten engaged to ASR… she wanted that happiness back and for that she needs to convince him to drop his anger. So, after an hour of pacing and giving herself pep talk, she called on his number but it kept ringing with no one picking it up. She looked at her phone in disappointment but since she had gathered courage to call, she wasn’t giving up so easily and dialled his number again with shooting a prayer heaven wards that he picks up which this time he did.
From other side came Arnav’s voice answering the call: “Hello…” but she suddenly felt tongue-tied while he sounded irritated as repeating, “Hello… Hello… who is it…? Either you talk or am dropping the call and you better not call on this number again!” threatened with intentions of cutting the call.
She immediately spoke up hurriedly: “Don’t cut the call please...” then a moment later hesitantly, “Hello… Hello ASR, it is me…” clutching her phone tightly in her nervousness.
From the other side came Arnav’s voice, saying: “Of course I recognize it’s you L--” but stopped mid-sentence and instead asked, “Anyways, what pleasure do I owe for you to ring me this late…?” sounding stern.
Lavanya fumbled: “Woh… woh ASR… I know it’s quite late but… I… wanted to… I…” pacing restlessly and felt rather lost as to what she should say.
He said annoyed: “Look either you speak up fast what you wanted to say or drop the phone, sitting down to think properly what you want to say and call me in the morning to say it. You might have not anything interesting to do but I do have better things to do rather than hear you stammering, so speak up fast!” his annoyance clear in his voice.
She tried to say: “ASR… woh ASR… I wanted… to… I mean ASR… I…” getting all the more nervous at his irritation and annoyed at herself for not being able to speak.
Impatiently he snaps at her: “You know what just let be and call me back in the morning or something because am rather busy at the moment.” ending the call as the heard rustling of sheets, miffed thud sound and what followed were muffled sounds from other side that she still heard clear enough, “You little minx! You are so getting it bad for teasing me like that...” And Khushi’s voice half-moaning as she said, “Hmmm Arnav… Ahhh who was it… Ohhh why did you not talk to... Hmmm…” tears started to roll down her eyes as she heard ASR’s reply, “Hmm it was a client... nothing important… being rather idiot calling up this late not remember four-and-half hours ahead… Ignore it babes…” followed by shuffling sounds, heavy breathing along as Khushi spoke, “Ohhh but you… Ahhh shouldn't have still talked... Hmmm like that, quite ohhh… quite rude hmmmm…” moaning which accompanied with male groans. He hushed her, voice clearly husky with desire, “Shhh you talk too much Mahiya… And didn’t you me saying I am busy... and am rather busy loving my wife properly.” After this was Khushi’s half-hearted protest, “No Arnav... hmmm no... Jaanaaaa…” moaning as kisses were being exchanged. ASR said, “Yes Mahiya… Oh you are going to get so bad from me now… teasing me like that… I am going to fuck you again Babes… Fuck you raw, wild and hard… You’ll be screaming my name all night, Babes!” his voice raw, seducing and promising of sinful pleasures.
Lavanya had heard enough as tears rolled down her eyes and brought the phone down her ears, cutting the call even though the sounds of what she heard echoed in her ears along with her mind providing the mental images to match them. She broke down in sobs as the thoughts of ASR sharing physical intimacy with another girl… with Khushi which stabbed her heart rather brutally and mercilessly though she kept denying. True during their relationship she had shared few kisses with him and she knew from him that despite having numerous affairs along with being a playboy, he never had sex with anyone. It was this one thing ASR was very particular about as he always said that he was saving himself for the special girl whom he would marry because why should it only be his future wife saving herself for him, and if she could do that, then he can do the same for her. Though this doesn’t mean that he is by any means conservative male who would only marry a virgin girl, he just wished to share that level of intimacy with someone special instead of just causally throwing it around.
In front of her eyes was ASR seemed to have moved on with Khushi but her heart and mind didn’t want to accept that he has forgotten her… that he moved on. And how could he when she was still here in-love with him...? When she herself hadn't been able to accept Samar completely, then how could ASR be happily married to Khushi and have forgotten her...? Why can’t he see that he was hurting her in his anger and quest to make her pay for the hurt she caused him six years ago...? She sobbed thinking that she couldn’t lose ASR again but how could she make him declare that he still loves her. She sat on her bed sobbing and then laid down while her mind started to travel the path of her memory lane to the past that was gone but she wanted to go back in time to do things better.
---FLASHBACK---
SIX YEARS AGO
TACO BELL, VASANT VIHAR – 10:30 P.M.
Lavanya ran back to her table with tears streaming down her eyes where Samar was waiting for her and immediately stood up when he saw her. He said: “Lavanya, what happened…? Why are you crying…? Lavanya say something...” as he wrapped a arm around her and looked at her concernedly.
She quickly wiped her tears and bit her lips to not break down in sobs while her eyes wandered towards ASR’s table where the girl with him sat, looking around and then she got up to go where he had gone. The quickly averting her eyes back to her husband said: “I’ll you on the way but for now I want to go home, Samar.” glancing to see that girl entering the corridor ASR was.
He frowned confused but she seemed determined about leaving that moment itself, so not wanting to create scene unnecessarily. So, he paid the bill quickly and left with her from the restaurant to the parking lot as they sat inside the car instead of turning on the engine, he turned towards her asking: “Lavanya will you at least tell me now, what exactly happened…?” getting impatient with her silence and worried to seeing her constantly wiping tears.
She kept wiping her tears, replied: “ASR… ASR… was… he…” and breaks into sobs.
He too gets tensed hearing that, probs her further: “ASR…? Where did he come from…? Seriously, will you tell me exactly what happened please…?” demanding gently.
She brought her teary eyes up at him and answered: “Woh… Woh ASR was also in this restaurant along with another girl, I saw them sitting few tables away from us… I don’t know who the girl was as I didn’t see her face. But I don’t think they saw us before I went after him and confronted him.” hiccupping lightly as she sobbed.
Samar said: “Must be that new intern girl as she is the only one who is friendly with him, from what I have heard is that she is new, knows no one, became friends with ASR and they are seen around each other frequently… though I don’t know who she is as I haven’t seen her, just know that it is some Ms. Ahlawat. It’s a good thing that ASR is coming out and has someone to lean on because he has been so distant from us all. But why are you crying… if he hadn’t seen us before then why did you went after him…? And what do mean by confronting him…?” frowning as he looked at his wife.
Lavanya replied: “I went after him when I saw him get up to go to washroom and confronted him in the corridor about how he could do this to me…? How could ASR come on a date with another girl…? That he dares to forget me… but he instead lashed on me angrily saying that he was on a friendly dinner with that girl and that I don’t have any rights to demand answers from him… How could he say that to me…? He said I had no rights to interfere or accuse him if he really was on date and moving on… Samar how can ASR say that to me…? How could he do this to me…?!” as she sobbed and looks at him to support her.
He couldn’t believe her words and attitude, said: “Lavanya what the hell?! How could you say something like that to him…? What is wrong with you…?!” staring at her from up to down.
She frowned saying: “What do you mean Samar…? Instead of taking my side, you are siding with ASR… Can’t you see how much he had hurt me with his actions and words today?!” getting bit of angry now.
He looked at her incredulously, replied: “Honestly Lavanya, you have some serious issues if you actually victimize yourself like this all the time and even after this so-called confrontation with ASR, you’re blaming him again… what is your problem…?! I mean seriously, if ASR was on a date than it would have been good, in fact just coming on a friendly dinner like this was nice and you should have supported him in moving on instead you are pulling him back and throwing unnecessarily harsh words! Like what right do you have to demand answers from him…? Rishta kya hai tumhara ASR se jo usse aise accuse kar rahi thi…? Demanding explanations from him…?!” giving her a look.
She retorted: “I am his fiancé damn it!” with angry tears streaming down her face.
He thinned his lips, saying: “You WERE his fiancé… now you are MY WIFE, Mrs. Lavanya Samar Khurana…” and watched her turn pale while he continued, “You choose to be my wife and remain so, I didn’t force you at any point and so you chose our marriage over your relationship with ASR… then how can you make any claims on bases of that…? Seriously Lavanya make up your mind about what you want okay… you can’t go around bullying and tormenting ASR like this every time. One side you tell him to leave you alone, to move on and when he is take on step forward you rush to pull him five steps back… it can’t go on like this, you can’t hold onto me and hurt ASR while cause me pain also with such behaviour. Just because I don’t say anything and gave you space to sort yourself doesn’t mean I’ll tolerate everything, especially such bullshit attitude you are giving ASR and me which is totally unfair to us. There is still time Lavanya, if you want to go back to ASR, just tell me and I’ll give you divorce… but if you remain in our marriage then stop being hinderance in ASR’s life by constantly clinging to him. So, what will it be, Lavanya…?” looking at her very seriously.
She looked at him with teary eyes, replied: “Samar how can you say things like this to me…? What is wrong with you…?! And divorce, you know I can’t even think of it… Papa will be heartbroken and I can’t do that to him… Tum mujhe aisa kaise bol sakte ho…? Why are you talking to me like this…?” lips trembling as she tried to suppress sobs.
Instead of rushing to console her, he remained hard and said: “Then stick to your decision and stop interfering in ASR’s life… if you want to remain in this marriage so that your beloved Papa’s heart isn’t broken, fine with me. But you have to work on our relationship and stop clinging to ASR… let him go Lavanya, he doesn’t deserve the pain you are still inflicting on him after the way you jilted him. I mean honestly have you tried to think from ASR’s point of view how hard it is for him; his last memory was of you as his fiancé and he wakes up to reality of you being my wife… You didn’t wait for him, left his parents in time of need alone and now you are hurting him with your double standard behaviour… Yaar kis baat ka badla le rahi ho usse jo iss tarah behave kar rahi ho uske saath…?!” while she kept sobbing and he continued, “We all failed him in some way or the other and we’re still behaving with him unfairly… Anjali has gone off to Australia, Aman too left to Mumbai in his heartache, Yuvi and Mayuri too are in NYC while Bhai and Payal Bhabhi too happily moving on with their married life, are too out of country… none of us are here to support ASR, when he was there for all of us. I so want to go up to him but I know seeing me would only cause him more stress, so I maintain my distance but that doesn’t mean I don’t feel guilty for what I did to him… I married the girl he was engaged to because my parents wanted that, I caused him pain and I try not add more to it. But you Lavanya are a unique piece, instead of feeling guilty for ditching him like that… here you are portraying yourself as victim, I mean are you real…?!” looking at her in incredulously and expressing his displeasure at such behaviour of hers.
Lavanya cried: “I am sorry Samar; I know I am being unfair to you both… then again I can’t see him with someone else… But I can’t just walk out of our marriage without hurting Papa… What am I suppose to do…?!” said sounding vulnerable.
He signed, replying: “That’s not a justification for your actions which are completely wrong, you can’t hurt ASR just because you feel confused. And about seeing him with someone else, well start tolerating that just like he is seeing you as my wife because sooner or later he will get up and leave… that he will move on and Lavanya I won’t let you forever be hindrance in ASR’s way of moving on. And honestly, start owning up your faults instead of always trying to blame other or victimizing yourself!” and turned away from her.
His eyes went to the side mirror he saw ASR looking tried making way to his car with an arm around a girl beside him though he couldn’t see her properly except being in cute short dress with long braid as the girl was on other side. The girl to held ASR in a supporting manner and Samar wished that this girl to provide ASR the support that he needs… to make him move on and take his pain away. He glanced at his wife once and saw she didn’t see them, so without another word started the engine and pulled out of parking with his eyes on mirror as he saw ASR helping the girl in passenger seat as he pulls on main road.
.....
NEXT DAY
G.K. CONSTRUCTIONS, DELHI – 11:30 A.M.
Lavanya sat in her seat near the end of room at the conference room with professional face on though inside she as upset, since last night things have turned tensed between her and Samar. Even this morning he hasn't talked to her except in front of others putting up the façade of everything is normal between them though in private it wasn't much pleasant as she was angry at him too. She was upset about ASR's incident because she felt betrayed by him for being with another girl, friendly dinner or not while displeased with Samar's behaviour that instead of being sympathetic towards her, he scolded her. So, after coming to office today she had tried to know more about this new intern who is friends with ASR and hadn't gotten much except the girl joined as interior designer intern, is from abroad and very bubbly sort of person though she hadn't seen her. Lavanya paid attention to office gossips to know if there had been rumours about ASR being in-relationship with this girl but nothing of that sort, they are just friends and for now she was assured with that.
Soon others also arrived, her eyes went towards ASR seated in other end and to Samar too settled in his place which was two seats ahead from her then she turned to look in front at the head table. Sashi Gupta stands up to address everyone: “Well I know this staff meeting is called suddenly and we’ll keep this short as we need to make just few announcements. We are all here to thank our team for bagging the new residential society deal which a was major contract for G.K. Constructions, especially ASR for his brilliant plan.” and everyone clapped as they calmed, he continues, “On this occasion a success party has been arranged this Saturday and we hope to see you all, especially the team which worked. So, everyone will receive invitations by tomorrow and we’ll see you then, now you all can head back to your work…” took a step back.
Akshay too adds: “Thank you for your hard work and congratulation on this success, now you all can head back to work… and keep up the good work.” with a small smile as they both left with other senior management members, after which the stuff too got up to leave talking about weekend party.
Samar came beside her and she asked: “You knew about this…?” looking at him.
He nodded replying: “Yeah dad told me in the morning before you came down for breakfast. Anyways I wanted to tell you that I have quite a few meetings and video conferences lined up, so I’ll be late today evening. Can you go home alone…? Driver will drop you and bring back the car for me, you have any problem with it…?” asking her but she was busy staring somewhere else and her followed her line of vision to see ASR walking out with a girl beside him in short light-blue dress, heels and long hair pulled in fishtail braid. They both had back towards them but he could see the hand movements of the girls which he guessed as she talked about something excitedly while ASR turned sideways to look down at the girl, he saw the indulgent fond look with a small smile as he listened to her. It was nice to see that someone actually made ASR feel better with their presence as the pair walked out the room, as he turned to look at his wide and calls out, “Lavanya… Lavanya… LAVANYA!” a little loud making her snap out her thought.
Startled she blinked looking at Samar who gave her a look and she felt embarrassed, said: “Yes… ah you said something…?” averting her eyes while she thought back about ASR with that girl though again, she hadn’t seen the girl’s face.
Samar gave her look but repeated: “I’ll be late today evening, so can you go home alone…? The driver will drop you and bring the car back for me…” waiting for her reply.
She nods relying: “Yeah, it is fine…” and picked up her things to leave.
He nods as they both walk out and at the door he pauses and stops her too, said: “And Lavanya, stop trying to find about the new intern and stay away her… she is the only friend ASR has got, don’t make things worse for him than it already is.” and she was about to say something but he didn’t let her, “I know what are you doing since morning after coming to office and I know you since childhood, tumhe ache se jaanta hoon and that’s why am telling you to stop whatever meddling you are thinking about doing in ASR’s life. You have done enough already, he doesn’t need any more when you have made the decision to not go back to him… leave him alone Lavanya, uss mein hi sabki bhali hai.” and without waiting for her any response, left from there for his next meeting.
Lavanya stood there staring at her husband’s retreating back though biting her lower lip, feeling rather indecisive and uncertain. One hand, she was still in-love with ASR and couldn’t see him with anyone else but on the other hand she can’t break her marriage with Samar, her father will be very disappointed. So, she decided that it will be better to stay away from ASR for now and concentrate on her marriage, feeling secure with the knowledge that the girl was only ASR’s friend… anyways no one can replace her in ASR’s life and felt rather confident with this thought, she heads to her cabin to prepare for next meeting.
----FLASHBACK ENDS---
Tears kept rolling down her cheeks as recalled that evening and sobbed recalling the choices she made which she is regretting now for making them in first place. She shouldn’t have let the matter go so easily then, she should have made sure to have removed Khushi back then, thrown her away from ASR and maybe she wouldn’t have lost her love to that wretched girl. A hand on her shoulder brought her out of her thoughts and looked up to see her Di, who sat on bed beside her. Anjali asked: “What happened Lav…? Why are you crying…?” and Lavanya hugged her sister crying, who tried to console her, “Shhh… Lav don’t cry… will you tell me what happened…? Lavanya…? Shhhh… Just tell me what happened…?” patting her back.
Lavanya pulled back, wiping her tears replied: “Di… Di woh… I called ASR… I wanted to talk to him… and… and…” breaking into sobs again.
Anjali hushed her, said: “You called ASR at this late hour…?” to which her sister nodded, “So why are you crying…? He didn’t pick up…? Maybe he slept Lav, don’t cry about that just call him in the morning… by the way why were you calling him so…?” wondering the reason.
Sobbing Lavanya answered: “Woh Di… woh… I felt so sad and sort of jealous seeing you so happy and getting married to your love… I called him, to talk him out of his act and anger… to come back to be… Instead I… I heard him…” as she couldn’t speak anymore but Anjali urged her to proceed, “I felt tongue tied about what to say in nervousness and then he got irritated… ending the call… But I don’t think he checked it properly before chucking the phone… and I… and I heard ASR and Khushi…” at this her sister was frowning in confusion, “Di I heard… I heard them getting intimate… He was having sex with her… How could he do this to me, Di…? How can he be intimate with Khushi like that…? Why is he doing this to me, Di…? Why…?” sobbing again,“You know I feel such an idiot for not interfering or doing something about Khushi in the beginning itself… I should have then itself tried to make her stay away from ASR, maybe then today I wouldn’t have to see this day now… I should have given Samar divorce at the beginning itself and gone back to ASR… My choices are what that has pushed him away from me but what do I do now, Di…? How can I get him back…? Bolo na Di, please do something… I want my ASR back… Please kuch karo Di…” as she cried on her sister’s shoulder.
Anjali felt at loss, tried to console her: “Lav… am so sorry Lavanya, you had to hear that… I don’t know what to do about ASR anymore, I don’t understand why can’t he see how much he is hurting you, get over his stupid anger and come back to you… Don’t worry everything will be alright…” hugging her sister side-ways and thoughtfully said, “You know we don’t know about what happened in England, what all that Khushi has been feeding him for the last six years… So, maybe Lav we can use my wedding as an excuse to know about that as well as it will give you a chance to try and get near him out of professional atmosphere… after all don’t they say that weddings are best setting for love stories… what say…?” feeling good about think such a brilliant plan.
Lavanya looked at her hopefully: “Really Di… you think that will work…?” as the plan sounded nice to her too.
Anjali nods, saying: “Yeah I think it will work, after all we have to know about what was going on in ASR’s life for the past six years… we have to know what all she had been saying to him and how did she trap him in this marriage. Once we know that, we can easily counter-attack and get ASR back to you… my wedding will give us very good opportunity as they all will attend every function and we can take our friends help to maybe make ASR spill about past six years… if not him then some else among them.” thinking about it more.
Lavanya too brightened up at first but dulled a moment later: “I don’t think our friends would be of much help... I mean Samar, Tuli and NK for sure won’t help also Yuvi and Mayuri have started to side with Khushi. Aman is neutral though I know he isn’t much in support ever since getting to know that ASR is married to Khushi, I doubt Akash will be of much help… only Payal is in our side.” feeling disappointed at losing her most friends support.
Anjali replied: “That is fine… in fact even better, we can indirectly instigate others to prob ASR for details of last six years and I know Payal will help us for sure. We can use this in our favour and by the end of the wedding ASR will be with back to you, I telling you Lav.” cheering her up.
So, they talked for a little longer and then went to sleep as Lavanya felt lot better and more assured with the plan Anjali had proposed. She knew they need to plan it out more details about how to get it implemented but for now this was enough… soon she would know what web that Khushi had wavered to trap her ASR. What Lavanya didn’t know was the surprises ahead for not only her but the others too, they had no idea about how entwined Arnav was to his Khushi… well they sure have one surprise rollercoaster ride ahead of them.
.....
RAIZADA MANSION, DELHI – 03:50 A.M.
It was quite late or rather early in the morning as they laid wrapped in each other’s arms just having finished another round and now in post-coital bliss, just relishing the intimacy and exchanging little cherished kisses and loving touches. Khushi had her head on his chest while his one arm holding her to him and other hand held hers, playing with her fingers while pressing kisses once in a while, broke the silence by asking: “You remember the day you answered my question a week later in that party…?” as he tilted her head up a little to look at him as he stared down for few moments at her and nodded after he catch up and understood about what she is talking. She continued, “What made you reply…? Because honestly, I had thought I wouldn’t be getting one and neither was I expecting to but you did, though a few days later… Why…?” her gaze curious.
Arnav raised arched a brow at her, asking: “Really, we are having this conversation as our pillow-talk now…?” it wasn’t that he minded her question, he just wondered what brought this on.
She replied: “Yes we are having this conversation as our pillow-talk now because I just realized that you never told me the reason and I never asked you either… so why did you answer my question that day…?” looking at him curiously.
Knowing she won’t let it go and pulled her closer as he told her: “Because for a week you made me think about something else than the current mess my life was then… You brought that one person to the forefront of my mind whom I had buried in some hidden depths to never recall again. And I just couldn’t stop thinking about the possibilities and what if’s that your question filled my head with, then in the party and that song, just sort of brought all those memories… those wistful dreams and you were there for me share my thoughts, even then I could share anything with you. Mahiya, you have always been my confident and there wasn’t anything at any time in my life where I couldn’t share anything with you.” bending down to kiss her forehead lovingly while the memory of day floated in both their minds as they gazed in each other’s eyes.
---FLASHBACK---
ONE WEEK LATER
GREENWOOD APARTMENTS, DELHI – 07:00 P.M.
Arnav dressed in black shirt and trouser along with dark blue coat, looking quite handsome stood in front of Khushi’s flat as he knocked on her door. The success party was today and they both have decided to go together as it would be quite late to return from there which isn’t exactly safe time for girls to travel in Delhi even in personal vehicle. So, he had told her that they’ll go together and being neighbours made it convenient and she too agreed readily knowing her tendency to get in trouble without much effort, not that she was some helpless damsel but why take the risk of deliberately inviting trouble when one can avoid it.
 |
| ARNAV'S OUTFIT |
The door opened few moments later to reveal a Khushi dressed in off-shoulder dark blue velvet blouse paired which showed-off her delicate shoulders with dark blue print-design long skirt as jewelleries she wore a necklace. Her hair was pulled back in a loose sophisticated low bun and with her usual minimal make-up, she looked fantastic and he could only stare at her with his jaw dropped, mesmerized by beauty. She stepped aside saying: “Hi Arnav and oh we match…” pointing to his outfit with a broad smiled, “Come inside…” and brought him out his splendour as he stepped in the apartment while she closed after him continues, “Well I am already, just let me get my purse, phone and keys along with checking once more if I have locked and switched-off everything then we can leave… you sit down…” motioning him towards the sofa, “Do you want something to drink… water…?” asked moving around.
 |
| KHUSHI'S OUTFIT |
He sat down on one of the comfy couches, replied: “Happiness I am fine, you just carry on and then we’ll leave.” easing her with a smile.
She smiled at him then went on to her to-do list tasks while his eyes just followed her around, he wasn’t blind to not see just how beautiful she is but today she just looked more dazzling. After ten minutes they were both in parking lot as he helped her in his SUV and then climbed in driver’s seat himself, starting the engine and pulling out of their society gates to main road. Khushi asked chirpily: “By the way, you didn’t tell me how am I looking…? And you are looking quite handsome, before you ask.” smiling brightly at him.
He glanced at her once before replying: “You look beautiful Happiness and I have my work cut out for me to keep other men off you because am sure everyone would be drooling all over you once they see you.” frowning at the thought unhappily but quickly shook himself out of it and comments, “This is the closest I have seen you to wearing Indian traditional, I bet you could look like a Barbie doll in saree though I think you could have left you hair open today… in fact I don’t recall seeing your hair open ever.” as he tried to remember.
She smiled saying: “Thank you so much, I promise to stick close to you tonight and let you hold me as possessively you want… About saree, hmmm maybe one day I’ll wear saree along with leaving my hair open and I bet you’ll fall in love with me the moment you see me. So, for now we’ll keep the saree and open hair plan aside… though any specific colour saree you want to see me the first time…?” with a little laugh and wiggling her eyebrows at him teasingly.
They had stopped at the signal, so he turned towards her and stared for few moments as he imagined her in saree along with long lush hair open, replied softly: “Hmm maybe I’ll really fall for you at that moment and red saree… I would definitely love to see you in red saree with your hair down one day…” looking at her intensely and she too stopped laughing under his intense gaze as her cheeks turned a fascinating delicate pink. He averted his eyes, the signal turned green and starting the engine as they moved towards the party venue while for the first time there was a spark of unknown between them while the silence was filled with the soft song that played on the radio and stealing shy glances at each other.
.....
PARTY HALL, LEELA PALACE, DELHI – 08:15 P.M
They had reached the venue thirty minutes ago and Arnav actually held Khushi quite possessively since the moment they had arrived seeing that literally men were drooling after her which had awakened some unknown beast inside of him and she was happily unaware of it. He stood with his arm around Khushi’s waist as they both talk to a client and he tightened his hold on her seeing the lingering eyes of the person. The other man knew to take hint and ran off quickly as Khushi dragged him around to mingle with few more guests and she kept praising him in front of them, sort of like bragging on his behalf while could only smile at her fondly. His eyes wandered around the hall and spotted Samar dressed in black and beside him was Lavanya in nude long-anarkali with pink dupatta and hair open… she looked pretty but somehow today his eyes only found Khushi beautiful, like mesmerizingly beautiful for some reason.
 |
| LAVANYA AND SAMAR'S OUTFIT / LOOK |
Lavanya from the other side of the hall had noticed ASR holding a girl rather possessively which made her jealous as hell and hence she made to cling close to Samar, so that he feels the same burn though she was unaware that ASR hardly took notice of her today. She was talking to some clients whom her father was introducing them to though her eyes were on ASR, today too she couldn’t see the girl with him properly as they were quite far along with lot of guests in between.
Then Akshay Khurana was on-stage, calling everyone’s attention: “Good evening ladies and gentlemen, thank you all for coming here… also a big round of applause for team which is the reason for this success party, especially ASR for bagging such big contract for our company.” and everyone clapped while Khushi smiled extra big looking at the said person beside her, clapping. Then continuing, “On this occasion, something special to celebrate tonight… what say…?” while all cheered in agreement, “So, I know many of you know how well ASR sings… what about a song from him…?” which lead to loud yes from all, “ASR you heard the people… on stage now…” calling him.
Arnav looked reluctant, said: “Ah no, not today… please spear me this time…” as he tried to get out of it but all encouraged while he denied.
Khushi turned to him, saying: “I didn’t know you can sing, Arnav… oh you have to sing now… please please one song, for me… of not for me, then for your missed girl… please agree, one song Arnav please…” giving him her best puppy face and pout.
He froze at her words as the thoughts of the person who hadn’t left since last week after her curious questions, resurfaced in his mind again. Then the pleading face of his Happiness, well he had to agree now and signing, he walks up the stage and talks to the orchestra while taking a guitar from them. He sat on the stool with mike in front of him adjusted and he spoke: “So, I am literally being cornered…” looking towards Akshay with mock accusation who raised his glass in cheers, “…along with getting blackmailed, not fair Happiness.” and gave her a mock look while she smiled brightly at him, “And since I am here, this song is not the typically party song but I heard it a while ago and seemed fitting to my mood, this song is something more of unsaid feelings… This song is dedicated to the girl whom I missed by a fraction every time, the girl who flattered like a butterfly in my life, always around me but I could never catch her. This is to the girl who has always occupied in my unconscious thoughts, my sweetest dreams and remains as my dearest desire, there isn't anyone like her… or I don’t know, maybe there is…” as his eyes went towards Khushi, who reminded him so much of Her at times, something he had thought he found in Lavanya though later proved to be wrong. But his Happiness has the same innocence like Her, he said, “Main hoon bhi aur nahi bhi uske bina, kabhi lagta hai kismet hai meri, kabhi lagta hai akhari dua… Ab koi aa ke yeh paheli suljhaye, mujko bas itna bataye… Ki iss pyaar ko kya naam doon…” lips upturned in a barely-there smile and a tender express on his face as he strummed the strings of the guitar and sang in his husky voice… (I am there and not without her, sometimes I feel like she is my destiny, sometimes feels like she is my last prayer… Now someone solve this riddle for me, just tell me this… what shall I name this love…)
“Ghar se nikalte hi
Kuch door chalte hi
Raste mein hai uska ghar”
Singing the lines his mind drifted to the memory lane that he hasn’t dared to travel in years but at that moment couldn’t stop himself from revisiting there again…
….
NINE YEARS AGO
HAMPTON HIGH, ENGLAND – 02:00 P.M.
It was Monday, fourteen years old Arnav Singh Raizada, now in high school and being the youngest to have gotten on his selected in his school rugby team was now seated on the bench outside the field waiting for the others to arrive while feeling a little nervous as to being the youngest now among seniors. His thoughts were broken by arrival of two senior teenage boys as they both plopped on either side of him casually along with dropping their respective kits near their feet, making him alert as he knew one of them was team captain.
The oldest boy spoke first after few moments: “Well I heard from coach that you are the youngest team member and apparently quite talented…” looking at him with curious blue eyes and Arnav nodded carefully, “Well congratulations, you made quite a lot of people jealous with getting selected in team so early and that includes my brother too.” pointing at the other teen and then went to introduce, “Hi I am Neev Ahlawat, eighteen years old, a senior and also team captain…” forwarding his hand for handshake with a dimple smile which was taken by the younger teen.
The other teenager said: “Hello I am Abir Ahlawat and I am a year older than you… congrats for making in the team so early, we look forward to see your performance.” with a friendly smile.
Arnav too shook his hand and replied: “Well hi I am Arnav Singh Raizada and you can call me Arnie.” giving them a boyish grin.
They both smiled back and Abir asked: “Nice to meet you Arnie, are you Indian…?” curiously looking at the boy.
Arnav nods: “Yeah but born and brought up in England… I am guessing from your names that you are Indians too…?” questioned back.
Neev answered: “Yeah, same as you… born and brought up here and this makes everything even more interesting.” they got in talking as the rest of the team along with coach arrived but since it was first day, only introductions were made and the practice starts next day while they all get to know each other. It was a forty minutes of chatting and initial team bond forming, after which everyone went to locker room to fresh and change, going back home for the day as they all joked and laughed like bunch of noisy teenage boys could be expected.
Everyone had left and now it was only Neev who sat on bench waiting for his brother to finish his shower while getting their bags while Abir was in shower and taking his sweet time and Arnav was putting on his clothes. At that moment Neev’s phone started to buzz and he picked it up with a smile: “Hello baby, what happened… have you reached home…?” and then listened to reply from other side, said, “That’s nice and so happy that you got such good grades in your test…” while keenly heard the reply from other side, “Oh so baby wants reward… what do you want, tell me and I’ll get for you while coming home…” and smiled at whatever reply he got, “Okay I’ll bring big tub of your favourite ice-cream, I promise baby… after all my Laado has asked so nicely…” and laughed lightly at the response he received, “So, I’ll keep the call now… will be home soon and I love you baby, bye.” ended the call still smiling.
Curious Arnav asked: “Who was that…? Your girlfriend…?” as he shrugged on his shirt.
Neev started saying: “No that was…” but saw his brother coming out of shower with towel wrapped around his waist and drying his hair, so addressed him, “Laado called, we’ll have to pick her favourite ice-cream on our way.” to which Abir just nodded readily and started putting on his cloths. Then he went to reply the earlier question, “That was my twelve years old little sister, Katya… apparently she got A in maths today and wants ice-cream.” with a soft smile.
Arnav raised a brow: “You both have a sister too… how many siblings are you…?” gathering his stuff in his gym bag.
Abir replied: “We are two brother and one sister… so three siblings…” pulling his shirt on.
Arnav nods, commenting: “Cool must be nice to have siblings, I am an only child… it tends to be boring at home at times.” then strapped his bag on his shoulder asked, “So what is your sister’s favourite ice-cream…?” looking at them.
Neev replied: “Ben and Jerry’s cookie dough and chocolate fudge.” getting up with his bag on shoulder too.
Arnav brightened up, replies: “I love that too, seems like your sister and my ice-cream choices are same… Hmmm your sister sounds cool.” making the older teens shake their head at such declaration of being cool at liking same ice-cream flavours. As they bid goodbyes and left for their respective homes as Abir and Neev got in their car which Neev drove and Arnav got in his car which driver came to pick him up while staring out the window his thoughts to the soft cute voice he had heard while Neev was talking on phone. He muttered softly under his breath, “Katya…” unaware of the weird flattering that his heart did at the name and a strange desire to hear the voice first hand, close.
“Pehli dafaa maine
Jab usko dekha to
Saansein gayi yeh thehar”
….
SIX DAYS LATER
BLACKWELL ACADEMY MARTIAL ARTS CENTRE, ENGLAND – 06:00 P.M.
“Rehti hai dil mein mere
Kaise bataaun usey
Main toh nahi keh sakaa
Koi bataa de usey”
Arnav entered the class, from today his classes were going to be taken by his new instructor who apparently teaches only one kid at a time, as the instructor is more of giving one-on-one to his student. From today his kickboxing is getting to advanced level along with weapon combat (obviously not real weapons will be used in practice as he is underage) soon and he was rather excited for it, also this instructor will help him in his shooting lessons too though his Mom wasn’t thrilled about this fighting classes but supported him considering his interest. He dropped his bag and sat on one bench waiting for his instructor and five minutes later the door opened, entered a tall handsome man with bulging muscles. The man quickly spotted him and turned towards him, said in friendly tone: “Hi, you must be Arnav Singh Raizada… I am Kabir Ahlawat, your new instructor…” forwarding his hand with deep dimple smile.
 |
| KABIR AHLAWAT |
Arnav smiled back, replying: “Hello sir, it’s nice to meet you and I am so excited for starting up this schedule.” his voice reflecting his enthusiasm, standing up.
Kabir said: “Please not sir, you can just call me uncle as we’re going to building up trust bond between us as we train together. So, tell me something about yourself Arnav…” as he started the stretching exercises.
Arnav too followed with his stretching exercises, answered: “Then you can call me Arnie as everyone calls me that, I am fourteen years old, single child… study in Hampton High and got selected in school rugby team, apparently the youngest to make in team.” bending down to stretch his legs.
Kabir stretched his arms: “Ah, then you must know my boys… Neev and Abir…?” asked him.
Arnav looked at him little surprised: “You’re Neev and Abir’s father…?” to which his instructor nodded and continues, “Why do you take only special classes and not regular in this academy…?” curious about it.
Kabir replied easily: “I am part-time instructor her in this academy Arnie, so I take special classes as it helps me train myself regularly too… I am actually Assistant Commissioner in Scotland Yard.” stretching backwards.
Arnav gave him an awed expression, saying: “Woah, that is so awesome!” and stretched backward himself.
Kabir smiled at him: “Okay let’s get started with today’s schedule, starting with hundred kicks on the punching bag with each leg… come on…” as they both got started.
After almost two hours of exercise, they sat down and sipped water from their respective bottles while wiping the sweat and relaxing as today’s session was over. That was when Kabir’s phone buzzed and he picked seeing it was from home, said: “Hello…” and he smiled little hearing the voice from other side, “Hi Babygirl, you are back home from your ballet class…?” then paused to here the reply and said, “That’s nice, so this deserves a treat… you want ice-cream…?” and smiled widely at the happy cheer he received from his daughter, “Okay I’ll bring two big tubs of you favourite Ben and Jerry while coming home… I’ll keep the call now, see you soon bye and love you Sweetie.” cutting the call with a smile.
Arnav asked: “Katya…?” and Kabir nodded but silently raised a brow questioningly, “She called last week when we were in locker room after practice, that was when Neev said about his sister. She wants ice-cream again…?” wiping his face with his hand-towel.
Kabir replied: “Yes well Katya loves ice-cream and chocolates a little too much, especially ice-cream.” shakes head smiling, “So, we’ll get going and I see you tomorrow again then…” picking up his things and stood up, “Bye Arnie.” ruffled his hair and left.
Arnav sat for a few moments to relax, sipping his water and then got up, picking his things to go to locker room for a shower before leaving for home. His thoughts were about how he met three members of Ahlawat family and heard them all mentioning this Katya girl, who sounded really cute which made him very curious about her. Shaking his head at his thoughts, he showered, changed and got his bag then made his wait outside where his car was waiting for him, to go home.
“Ghar se nikalte hi
Kuch door chalte hi
Raste mein hai uska ghar”
….
TWO AND HALF YEARS LATER
AHLAWAT HOUSE – 04:30 P.M
Seventeen years old Arnav was at Ahlawat house this Saturday afternoon for lunch casually as over the years he had formed good friendship with Neev and Abir while Kabir was still his instructor which meant over the years gotten familiar with Ahlawat family, regularly visited them too. Right now, he sat in the comfortable living room alone waiting for his driver’s arrival to pick him up, looking around at the pictures especially the baby pictures of Katya on the fireplace shelf, the mysterious member about whom he had heard so much that it feels as if he knew her but never really met.
Rukshida came from kitchen carrying another bowl of ice-cream and handed it to Arnav who took enthusiastically from her and she sat down on the other end of the sofa smilingly. She comments: “Arnie, you are as crazy for ice-cream as my Katya is...” shaking her head. Neev had left twenty minutes ago for extra rugby practice of University team, Abir had gone for a project group study to his friend’s house an hour ago while Kabir had gone to office for some emergency case, Katya had apparently gone to her best friend’s house to provide a shoulder to cry since her pet cat died this morning… basically it was only two them in the house at the moment.
 |
| RUKSHIDA KABIR AHLAWAT |
Arnav replied: “Auntie don’t tell me about it… I swear it is easier to meet the Queen of England than it is to see your elusive daughter, I am now starting to think that you are deliberately keeping her hidden from me.” spooning ice-cream in his mouth. She laughed and he continues, “What it is true, I mean I have known your family over two years and met you all somewhere or the other except you daughter about whom I have heard the most from you all. I mean seriously, how come every time she is not there when I visit… tell the truth, you all have deliberately kept her hidden, right…?” with a teasing smile.
She grinned saying: “Yes we have kept her hidden since you are such a lady charmer, what if you charm my almost fifteen years old daughter…” playing along.
He rolled his eyes and said: “Well then don’t you think I should be the one to be on caution, after all you are so beautiful auntie and I can only guess how pretty your daughter is going to be… what if I fell in love with her at first sight…? I think I am more danger than her.” wiggling his eyebrows and smiled widely as he puts a spoonful of ice-cream in his mouth.
She shook her head smiling: “You are such a flirt Arnie, anyways are you going to be coming to Katya’s birthday party this time...? It's two weeks later and you can finally meet her then.” asked him.
He shakes head in denial: “No auntie, going on a tournament out of town that week and seems like I am going to miss the party again though I’ll make sure to send her gift like every year. You know its like the world is conspiring against me to me from meeting your Katya.” pouting at all the missed chances over the years.
Rukshida said: “That’s sad, it would have been nice if you could have attended even Katya wants to see you and she loves your gifts the best like you know, maybe next time you both can meet.” and thought it was really a strange game of hide-and-seek that fate seems to be playing with Arnav considering how he misses meeting her daughter every time, it is sort of amusing.
They both chatted for a while as he finished his ice-cream, his driver had arrived and Arnav left bidding Rukshida goodbye though somewhere he felt disappointed for not meeting Katya again. But this fate’s hide-and-seek only increased his desire to see and talk to her along with the knowledge of her desire to meet him as much as he did, made him feel better and giddy in a strange way.
“Uski gali mein hai dhali
Kitni hi shaamein meri
Dekhe kabhi woh jo mujhe
Khush hoon main itne mein hi”
….
TEN DAYS LATER
HAMPTON HIGH, ENGLAND – 03:00 P.M.
Arnav sat in locker room bench, showered and changed after practice while others left but he sat here waiting as his driver was going to late to pick him up and only team member was Abir left who had gone to talk to coach. He was playing on his phone when a phone buzzed and he looked around searching for it but it stopped, so shrugging he turned back to his game. Few moments later again that phone buzzing sound and looking around he finally spotted Abir’s bag on opposite bench which had the buzzing phone in side pocket. Without thinking much, he picked up the call thinking it to important if the person was calling after it ended and spoke: “Hello…” sounding casual.
A moment later from the other side came a soft voice, which sounded like sweet as honey to him: “Hello… who are you…? You are not my Bhai…” said the person.
Arnav replied easily: “Actually Abir has gone to talk to coach and I saw the phone ringing continuously and picked it up… who is this…? I can take the message or call him if it is an emergency.” offered nicely.
The person on other side said: “I am Abir Bhai’s sister, Katya… who are you…?” wanting to know his name.
He froze for a moment hearing who was on the other side and quickly snapped out of it: “Hi, I am Arnav Singh Raizada… you might have heard about me earlier from your family. Anyways, why did you call Katya…?” asked her and feeling excited to have a direct conversation with her.
Katya said from other side: “Oh Arnav, its so nice to finally talk to you…” and he could hear the smile in her voice and his name never sounded better than it did at the moment, she continues, “I just needed a little help with my algebra homework but… anyways let it go, I’ll call Bhai Saheb or dad or maybe wait for Bhai or mom to come home… it’s okay, I’ll just hang up now.” said not wanting to trouble him.
Arnav hurriedly said: “Noooo…” rather loudly which startled her and he composed himself quickly saying, “I mean I am quite good in algebra; I can help you… tell me…” not wanting to end the call so soon.
She replied: “No it’s okay, I don’t want to trouble you Arnav… I’ll do something else…” tried refusing.
He says: “No its fine and I am really good in algebra, you can tell me I’ll help you… please Katya…” sweetly encouraging her.
She was silent for few moments and then said finally: “Okay if you are sure…” sounding bit hesitant.
After that they talked over forty minutes with him helping her with her homework and thanking him, she kept the call while he had a huge smile on his face as he stared at the phone in his hand. Abir came there and asked: “Arnie you haven’t gone home yet…? What are you doing with my phone and smiling like that…?” looking at him curiously.
Arnav snapped out of his thoughts and composed him, replying: “My driver is late today to pick me, so I was waiting for him sitting her. Anyways, your phone was ringing continuously and I picked it up thinking if it was an emergency or not, I hope you don’t mind…” forwarding the phone continued, “It was your sister and she wanted some help with her maths homework, so I helped her …” then got up from the bench and took a little gift from his bag, handing him said, “This is Katya’s birthday gift, please give it to her on my behalf on her birthday and anyways, my driver has arrived… bye Abir.” picked up his bag and left before he could be interrogated though there was a smile on his face and though he mentally hit himself for not talking to her more or something. He was happy to finally getting a chance to talk to her directly and she had such a sweet voice, he thought smilingly while walking out of school doors to parking lot and got in the car, happy for now with having at least getting the chance to talk to her.
“Maine tareeke sau aazmaaye
Jaake usey na kuch bol paye
Baithe rahe hum raat bhar”
….
ONE WEEK LATER
HAMPTON HIGH, ENGLAND – 02:40 P.M
Today the practice got over early and while others have already left excepted for Abir who was talking to coach again being the captain this year. Arnav just finished wearing his clothes and was keeping his things in his bag when a buzzing of a phone broke the silence making him look around frowning in search of the source. He quickly spotted Abir’s phone ringing and picked it up, saying: “Hello…” holding the to his ear.
From other side same soft voice: “Hello… Arnav…?” little hesitant and hopeful.
Arnav immediately recognized the voice, stood straight: “Katya… Hi, how are you…?” said with a smile, god know why he gets all giddy when it comes to her and he has yet to meet her face-to-face.
She replied from other side: “I am fine, how are you…? And how was your tournament, Arnav…?” asked him sweetly.
He said: “It was fine, sorry I missed your birthday again… by the way, belated happy birthday, did you like my gift…?” wanting to know.
Katya replied: “Thank you so much and it was lovely… I really loved the bracelet charms and already added it to my bracelet.” with a smile in her voice.
Arnav says: “That’s nice, I have heard a lot about how much you like wearing bracelets and how you keep buying them over the years and when I saw those charms, I thought you might like it. Anyways, you calling Abir now…? He is with coach; you want help with your homework or something again…?” asked the reason for her call.
She answered: “Oh I know that already, I called in hopes that maybe I can talk to you… ah to thank you for your gift Arnav.” sounding shy.
He smiled broadly and replied: “You are welcome Katya…” ruffling his back hair and felt giddy.
They both were silent after that, sort of smiling and blushing and she hurriedly cut the call, feeling rather shy while he had a boyish grin plastered on his face, so it was official now that Arnav Singh Raizada had a serious crush on Katya Ahlawat, the girl he hasn’t met or seen yet. He kept Abir’s phone back in his bag side pocket it was and shouldered his own bag, making way out of locker room with a spring in his step while a new sort of giddiness excited him.
“Jo paas jaata hoon
Sab bhool jaata hoon
Milti hai jab yeh nazar”
….
ONE YEAR LATER
OXFORD UNIVERSITY, ENGLAND – 04:30 P.M.
Arnav just got out of shower and started to wear his cloths, today was first match of the season and his first game in University rugby team felt rather happy for having won too. He asked Veer: “Hey bro, where is Neev and Abir…?” not seeing them around while pulling his pants on and picked his shirt to wear.
Veer casually replied: “Oh they left already, apparently their sister had some ballet rehearsal or something for which they needed to leave early.” as he dried his hair.
Arnav shrugged his shirt on: “Katya came to see the match…? She is here…?” looking at his best friend in astonishment.
Veer looked at him frowning: “Ah yeah…” feeling bit bewildered.
He exclaimed: “What the! Why didn’t you say that earlier… when did they leave…?” tone urgent.
Feeling more confused, Veer replied: “Just few minutes ago, they must have just gotten to parking lot or something.” and watched as his best friend dashed out of locker room like blood hounds were after him, so he threw his towel over his back to rush after him.
Arnav dashed out the locker room in hopes to meet or at least to see Katya as he ran while dodging or colliding with the students through the corridor while mumbling apology without stopping. He rushed the stairs, ascending down and the parking lot was in front of him, spotting Kabir’s SUV ahead but quite far from him. He saw Rukshida getting in passenger side with Neev and Abir in backseat following lastly was a petite girl in cute pale-red dress and long open hair cascading down her back and pushed her hair behind her ear as she got inside closing the door, then the car pulled out of University gates. At that moment an eighteen years old Arnav Singh Raizada had gotten the first glimpse of sixteen years old Katya Ahlawat and lost his heart to her for forever. He came to a sudden halt, bends down panting but felt disappointment for having missed his chance again, though this time he got a tiny glimpse of her but she was far to have gotten a proper look which made him stomp his feet in frustration.
Veer too came to a sudden stop beside him few moments later panting, asked: “Bro why did you come running here like this…?” trying to catch his breath.
Arnav replied distractedly: “To meet Katya but they left...” still staring ahead where he had seen her and the first glimpse of her which made his heart go ‘dhak-dhak like never before and his hand went to the left side of his chest.
Veer gave him a weird look: “Why…?” questioning him.
Arnav came out his trance, replied: “Hmm nothing, come on let’s get our bags from boy’s locker and then we’ll go home.” turned around to walk away without giving his best friend any choice other than follow him.
Veer followed him while muttering about best friend’s weird behaviour and unnecessary running they make you do though Arnav wasn’t paying much attention to it. They had grabbed their stuff and left for home after that, without any further conversation about what happened a while ago as he was too lost to have paid much attention to anyways. The next day when Arnav had gone for movie with Veer at a mall, he had ended up buying something without letting his best friend know, his first gift for the girl who seemed to have occupied his thoughts even more forcefully since the first glimpse of her that he got. The card stuck on the wrapped jewellery box read ‘My dear Mahiya... always love you with all my heart, my Mahi…’
“Ghar se nikalte hi
Kuch door chalte hi
Raste mein hai uska ghar”
….
TEN MONTHS LATER
AHLAWAT HOUSE, ENGLAND – 12:38 A.M.
It was late at night when he pulled his car in front of Ahlawat house and got down hurriedly, his mind still reeling from the terrible news he received an hour ago and could hardly believe it. The whole locality was dark as it was quite late at night along with power failure in the area, he quickly run up the steps and knocked on the door, waiting to be opened. He heard shuffling sound, a peek out from window and then moment later door was opened to reveal the tearstained face of Amaya who stepped aside to let him in. They stood at the hallway and she closed the door, saying: “Thank you so much for coming immediately like this Arnie, I just couldn’t leave her alone like this because you know how scared she is of being alone in dark and that too in this situation… but I have to go to hospital, Neev called and he needs me there.” turning to face him.
Arnav waves it off: “No it is fine; in fact, I am glad you called me… how is Neev and Abir holding up…? And Katya…? I still can’t believe it; I mean I just talked to Kabir uncle and Rukshida auntie this evening and now they are no more.” seemed distressed and in disbelieve.
Amaya replied: “Neev and Abir are barely holding up while Katya is inconsolable since they got the news of the accident but both of them had to rush to hospital leaving her here with me. Rukshida auntie died on spot from the impact while Kabir uncle was critical and in ICU before a while ago he left us too… stupid drunk drivers!” cursed sobbing and wipes her tears, “Anyways, Neev needs me there but I couldn’t leave Katya alone, even he didn’t want that so I suggested to call someone to be with her… at first I had thought to call her best friend Ishaani or drop her at their place but they are out of town, even my family is not in town while Sana too has gone hospital to be with Abir. So, I called you and thank you much for coming like this Arnie…” she said gratefully.
He says: “It’s really no problem Amaya, you go now and I’ll be here with her until you guys come back… now go fast.” assuring her to look after Katya.
Amaya nods at him and hurriedly went to living room, probably to talk to Katya before leaving and came back few minutes later, said to him: “She is sitting in living room, curled up and rigid with only tears streaming down her face… see if you can make her react, to cry out loud and maybe put her to sleep. Katya is so devastated and has been just curled up like a statue, I don’t know how both the brothers will react seeing her like this.” shaking her head and then grabs her jacket, “Okay then I’ll leave now…” and went out while he closed the door after her.
Arnav stood on the hallway leaning against the door for a moment and gathering the strength to hold the girl who needs support of someone the most. He straightened up and walked slowly down the hallway to the living room which was dimly illuminated with few candles lit around the room making it barely visible to see around. The candle light didn’t chase away the darkness rather added to the gloominess while his eyes got stuck on the curled-up figure on the couch with head down and long hair covering her. He stood on the entryway silently staring at her though still he couldn’t see her face or tears but the slight trembling told him all about her silent cries, this wasn’t how he was hoping to meet her in person.
Few moments later he walked up to her and sat down beside her silently, puts an arm around her to which she at first stiffened rigidly, saying in hushed whispers: “Shhh it’s just me… I am so sorry Katya that this happened… so sorry…” pulling her close and in his lap as he caressed her hair with one hand.
She immediately recognized him and buried her face in his chest, breaking apart in the comfort of his arms: “Ar-- Arnav… Mum-- Mumma… Da-- Daddy… They ar-- they are… not coming back… Arnav… How can they leave like this…? They said… they’ll be back from dinner soon… I want them back… I want my Mumma Daddy… Arnav… I want them back, Arnav…” said crying and sobbing, clutching fistful of his shirt tightly.
He blinked back his tears seeing her like this as he continued to holding her with his chin resting on her head, hushing her softly: “Shhh it’s going to be okay… it’s going to be okay Mahiya… I am sorry that I can’t bring them back for you, but if I could then I would have… I am so sorry that you are hurting like this, Mahi…” consoling her, wishing nothing more than to take her pain away but this was something that was out of anyone’s control.
They were in that position for over two hours with her crying sitting in his lap, wrapped in his arms and face buried in his chest while he just held tightly onto her. Then slowly her sobs reduced and in exhaustion of so much crying and stress fell asleep but he sat there cradling her close to himself though he pulled back a little, lifting his one hand to move her hair aside to see her face when the sound of door opening made him snap to look that way. Few moments later walked in Neev and Abir, both looked devastated but stopped at the entryway staring at the sight they made on the sofa but silently walked in.
Neev asked: “She cried…? Is she okay…?” whispered softly, looking down at his sister in his friend’s arms.
Arnav replied whispering: “As much as she can be given the circumstance and cried herself to sleep… She is shattered bro, will need you both when she wakes up… how are you both holding up…?” asked them concerned.
Abir said: “Managing, still can’t believe mom and dad are not coming back…” averted his eyes as he wiped a tear from the corner of his eyes.
Then they were all silent for few moments and Neev said: “Thanks for staying and looking after Katya, now give her to me, I’ll put her in bed and you can go home.” offered, starting to bend down to pick his sister.
Arnav immediately tightened his hold on her and inched back saying: “Nooo…” which was rather loud and she squirmed in distress, he quickly hushed her back to sleep. Then turned towards other two who were looking at him strangely, he hurriedly says, “Ahhh I mean... I mean you both just came from hospital and haven’t freshened up or changed, so I’ll put Mah-- I mean Katya in bed… it would be better if you don’t touch her before taking shower and changing, hospital germs and all.” providing the sound excuse.
Neev back off at that and Abir nodded in agreement too as Arnav got up from the sofa carefully holding Katya in his arms as her face was leaned over his shoulder and her long hair obstructing his view. Anyways, without much thought Neev told Abir to head to his room to shower and change while picking up two candles, leading Arnav to Katya’s room to put her in bed. He followed silently and then entering the room Neev went to place the candle on the table, so his sister won’t get afraid of dark. Arnav entered after him and was carefully placed her on bed, as to not to wake her up and she seemed little distressed at first which he quickly smoothened her, pulling the covers over her and bending down to place a kiss on top of her head. He moved back a little, raised his hand to move her hair aside but Neev’s movement behind him reminded of another presence and started to straighten up quickly only to be stopped by her fist clutching his shirt.
He paused at staring at the little hand gripping his shirt and carefully freed himself than straighten up in time for Neev turned around to look at them and missed all that happened behind his back. Then both of them silently crept out the room though the door was left half-open as they went downstairs and Arnav left bidding good night. It took him thirty minutes to reach him Raizada Mansion and silently he went inside, opening the door using spare keys as he went up to his room quietly while his parents have slept since it was over two in the morning. He signed heavily closing the door of his room and leaned back tiredly then straightened up, taking towel and his nightwear from wardrobe, entering washroom to freshen up. As he put the things on counter and went to remove his shirt, something glinted in the mirror and caught his eyes, looking down was a gold with a diamond charm bracelet stuck on his shirt which he removed it and held in his hand.
 |
| KATYA'S BRACELET |
Staring at the bracelet, muttered: “Must have gotten stuck when she held on to me…” and fingered lightly over the ‘happiness’ inscribed and despite the tragedy his lips curved upwards lightly as he held something that belongs to her, his Mahiya.
“Kal jo miley woh raahon mein
Toh main usey rok loon
Uske dil mein kya hai chhipa
Ik baar main poochh loon”
….
FIVE DAYS LATER
AHLAWAT HOUSE, ENGLAND – 06:30 P.M.
Arnav went to Ahlawat house to see how they were doing holding themselves as he rang the doorbell and Abir opened the door. He stepped inside and Neev was present too, both the brothers looked rightfully distorted as he took seat, asking: “Hey bro, how are you both holding up…?” still not himself able to believe that Kabir Uncle and Rukshida Auntie are no more.
Neev replied: “Managing, we can’t break down or fall apart as we have to look after Katya now.” as his brother sat beside him, nodding in agreement.
Arnav asked: “And how is she holding herself…? Where is she now anyways…?” remembering the way, she broke down in his arms few days ago and hoped to meet her.
Abir answers: “Katya has gone to her Ishaani’s house for sleepover and we thought it might be good for her too. As it is, she is barely holding herself, keeps bursting into tears all of a sudden… I am scared that like this she’ll fall ill or something.” concerned for his sister.
Neev adds: “Yeah but at least Amaya is here along with Sana, they both have been tremendous help while dealing with Katya, giving her emotional support that only females seemed to provide… I don’t know what we both would have done without them.” feeling grateful for the presence of both the girls in their lives and Arnav nods in understanding while he continues, “We have decided that it will best to send Katya to boarding school for her next school year which is about to start in three weeks, as I have just joined my new job while Abir is in his final year. We bachelors can’t really look after a teenage girl, so as much as it pains us the best option is to send her to boarding now, our parents have left enough that it shouldn’t be a trouble to look after Katya’s needs before we both could stable ourselves to provide for her.” looking rather pained for having said that, even Abir looked devastated with this decision.
Arnav felt a lump stuck in his throat at the thought of her going away but there wasn’t anything he could say when her guardians have decided for her. And it was really for the best if thought logically but that didn’t reduce the ache that came with the knowledge of knowing that she’ll go far away from his reach… that didn’t stop him from worrying about how is she going to handle everything alone, who will be there to hold her when she needs to break down. But he clutched his jaws and kept his mouth shut even though he wanted nothing more than to carry her off somewhere far way with him, shaking his head at such juvenile thoughts and talked to the Ahlawat brothers some more then bidding them goodbye, leaving to go back home.
“Par ab wahaan woh rehti nahi hai
Maine suna hai woh jaa chuki hai
Khaali pada hai yeh shehar...”
….
ONE YEAR LATER
HAWTHORNE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, ENGLAND - 03:30 P.M.
Arnav Singh Raizada was twenty when he went to the airport to bid Neev and Abir and their fiancées farewell, they all were leaving England for respective assignment which was co-incidentally in same city. Veer was with him too as they hugged them all and after a while it was time so they went inside, after which Arnav signed heavily, feeling sort of little bereft. It has been a year since Kabir and Rukshida passed away after which Katya was send to hostel and he had kept contact with Neev and Abir which meant he got constant news about her. But now that they left, he knows it will hard to maintain regular contact with absolutely no way of knowing about or seeing Katya anymore and swallowed the lump in his throat. Even today she couldn’t come to airport as she was in her University and had important classes, her family had gone to meet her last time before coming to airport and since he came directly here with Veer to bid his farewells… basically he bid his goodbye to Katya too in his mind along with her family.
Veer kept a hand on his shoulder, asked: “Arnie are you okay…?” looking at him concerned.
He nodded and said: “I am fine Veer, don’t worry… come on we should get going.” though his voice sounded bit hoarse with suppressed emotions.
Veer didn’t prob him with questions and they both walked to parking as Arnav slid a hand in his pocket feeling the bracelet that he has been carrying around with him ever since it had gotten stuck on his shirt. Seems like it was time to let go off Katya because his Mahiya just became unreachable to him, he thought and got inside the car in passenger seat as he didn’t feel like driving while silently staring out of window while Veer drove them back home.
“Main phir bhi jaata hoon
Sab dohraata hoon
Shayad miley kuch khabar”
….
Arnav shook his head as he came out of his memories to the present, looking around the smiling faces of all the guests as he sang the last lines and strummed guitar finishing the song…
“Ghar se nikalte hi
Kuch door chalte hi
Raste mein hai uska ghar”
He signed lightly and felt little nostalgic while everyone broke in applause and he got up bowing once, kept the guitar on the chair after that got down of the stage. Few guests complimented him as he passed them but not wanting to mingle and get away from everyone, made his way to the balcony where no one was present. He silently sat down on the bench seat and puts a hand in his pocket, pulling out the bracelet that he has been carrying with him for last five years… even after being in relationship with Lavanya, he hadn’t been able to part with the memories of Katya.
His musing was broken by someone sitting beside him and he glanced side-ways to see Khushi who just sat with him silently, not asking or demanding anything but providing her presence like always. He signed and spoke breaking the silence: “She is my friend’s sister whom I had talked twice on phone, seen from afar once, given her a shoulder to cry but never seen or met her properly. If I had the chance to get her back in my life now then I would grab it with both my hands, even though I don’t feel worthy of her anymore.” voice sounding wistful.
Khushi tilted her head sideways asked: “And why do you feel like that…? Arnav, you are one of the best people I have met, a perfect gentleman… why would you think like that…? I think that girl will be lucky who finally has you in her life.” with a sweet smile.
Arnav replied with a sad smile: “Maybe I was once upon a time but now, not so much… Happiness you don’t know much about my relationship with Lavanya and I know you know enough as it is probably the most happening gossip of office… but you don’t know what it all did to me.” and he tried to explain, “Being with Lavanya hasn’t been easy and definitely not the best relationship I have had but for some reason I just couldn’t let go off her. I know how much off my self-esteem and self-worth she had made me question, doubt myself but despite that I just couldn’t let go off her, even now… I know it is not healthy but I can’t help it. You see this bracelet…” looking down at the gold bracelet with ‘happiness’ inscribed in his hand, “I have been carrying this with me for last five years, even after being in relationship with Lavanya I haven’t been able to let go of it, of her memories. But Lavanya has broken me in such a way that I don’t know anything anymore… she isn’t coming back to me but neither is she giving me closure to move on and I feel like I am stuck in a limbo, where I know I should move on but still I can’t. My life is such a mess and I don’t know what to do anymore or how to fix it, this makes me feel unworthy of her… or to drag her in the mess that my life has turned into.” feeling rather frustrated and disappointed, fingering the bracelet and looked up at her.
She nods at him understandingly and said: “You are not a mess Arnav; it is just that accident has taken a lot more from you than you realize and you are feeling lost, trying to find something familiar to hold onto… you are still finding your way of coping and adjusting. Also, I think your bracelet girl would love to meet you someday and you should find her once you go back home, see how that works out for you.” with an encouraging smile and cheerfully says, “You know what, first thing you do after returning to England is ask your bracelet girl on a date…” proposing her brilliant plan.
He chuckles a little and looks at her: “You really think so…?” and Khushi nodded enthusiastically, he continues, “Okay fine then I assure you, when I get my closure here and if I return to England without Lavanya, my first task would be finding my bracelet girl to return her bracelet and ask her on a date… after all the worse she could do is say no.” adds with a small smile.
She smiling says to him: “I assure you that there is no way she will say no to you, so promise me that you’ll ask her on date the moment you see her in front of you…?” forwarding her hand to him asking his promise.
He puts a hand on hers and said: “I promise Happiness, the moment I know who she is, I am going to ask her on a date with me… provided that she is single.” adding in the end as an afterthought.
Khushi smiles widely, replied: “Nope, I am sure she is very much available and readily agreeable when you find her though you have to work on securing her… so I hope you’ll have your A-game ready to woo her.” with a twinkle in her eyes for some reason that he didn’t understand. She got up pulling him too, “Now come on let’s go and have dinner, I am so hungry that I could eat the whole buffet alone.” and Arnav laughed, pocketing the bracelet carefully and followed after her inside the party hall making way towards the buffet area.
---FLASHBACK ENDS---
They both snapped out of their recollection of that day’s memories and Arnav says thoughtfully: “You know six years ago, more than wanting Lavanya back in my life I wanted a proper answer from her… I wanted more than her ‘my father wanted me to marry Samar and that is why I married him even though I still love you’… I deserved more than that, better than that. I deserved to know why she couldn’t have waited at least a year for me to wake up before she married someone else… in fact it was hardly one and half month before she married Samar, at least she could have seen six months before giving up on our relationship… How could she and her family have left my parents alone in that situation…? How could my so-called friends do that, even Payal and Yuvi… they knew my parents for years, heaven’s sake! I know that Veer stayed with them all along, Tuli kept in touch from Mumbai and heck your family were in constant contact with my parents from England despite everything… So how could everyone here be so insensitive and left my parents alone like that…? It’s hard to forgive them knowing this sort of insensitive behaviour… for these things. And really what more is that they never understood that for them four months had passed but for me it was overnight, that my last memory was Lavanya being my fiancé and now I wake up to the reality of her being wife of someone else. I might have not really loved Lavanya… that I was heavily infatuated with her and she might have been the closest replacement I got of my Dreamgirl but it’s not so easy to let go off an almost two years relationship... letting go that girl I got engaged to and did so much to get to the point we were. In the span of our relationship I had formed attachments with her and it wasn’t easy to just let it go with some half-baked explanation, especially with her conflicting behaviour. One side Lavanya used to say that I need to move on… that she is now Samar’s wife and then suddenly when she saw me with someone else or I really tried to move on, she was on my case and pulling me back. She is such a confused soul that she was holding on to Samar from one side and not letting me go completely on the other hand… she just kept clinging on to me. I realize now that if I hadn’t dropped everything and left suddenly from here than Lavanya wouldn’t have let go off me so ever while kept latching to Samar as she hurts him with her behaviour. That girl really has no idea what she wants, she can’t stick to her decisions or commitments and she absolutely has no value for people or their feelings… she just takes all for granted… She had taken me and our relationship for granted, she had never properly respected Samar as her husband or their marriage. Despite such absurd behaviour on her part, she always demands things to be done\ her way and never take blames for her decisions… Lavanya Gupta has some serious issues, I swear and I am glad to have escaped her, that accident was a blessing in disguise or else I would have been stuck with her and never got you in my life, Mahiya.” bending his face to kiss her forehead lovingly as he snuggled her closer to him.
She nuzzled and kissed his chest replying: “Well I won’t say that I am happy about the accident as you were lucky to have barely survived it though I am happy that the series of events finally led you to me… Or more like I came after you… I love you Jaana, I love you so much.” holding him tightly.
He kissed her lazily, said: “I love you too Mahiya… so much, more than life itself. Now come on let’s get some sleep, it is already four in the morning. Good night love…” as they both wrapped in each other’s arms comfortably and closed their eyes, quickly falling asleep with cute smile of holding their love, their world in their arms.
.....
PRECAP: Anjali’s wedding invitation to Raizada and Ahlawat family… what can go wrong in that, right…?
.....
[NOTE: Hello lovelies, so how was this...? The chapter turned a lot lengthy than I was expecting, hope I didn't bore you with it and also finally the back-story of Arnav and his teenage crush on his friend's sister... How many of you have been waiting for this story...? Was it up to the mark or was it bad...? Did you expect something like this or something different...? I know many feel like why he gave up so easily on her, answer is simple that at time he was quite young to have thought something to find Katya... also having never met her properly would make it look weird and stalker-ish if he suddenly dropped in front of her out of nowhere, brothers' friend or not. After the Ahlawat brothers left, he sort of lost contact with them and that made Katya out of his reach now, so he let go off her along with starting his hunt for someone like her... resulting too many unsuccessful flings and relationship with Lavanya.
Also, many have complaints that why he is still clinging to Lavanya in past after marriage and the was she treated him throughout... well like he said, for some reason he couldn't let go off her. Along with as Khushi pointed out that accident has physiologically affected him and he is suffering mild case of PTSD as a result trying to find something familiar to hold on. Now all would want to know why Khushi didn't reveal her identity at that moment itself, well for that you have to wait till they reach England... until then you can try guess the reason, what do you think it could be...?
For those who keep asking me to skip Arnav-Lavanya past and directly move-on to Arnav-Khushi in England, well I can't do that as it is I reduced Arnav-Lavanya relationship a lot by putting phases of it in chapter 10 flashback. Now whatever comes is necessary for not only story build up but also Arnav-Khushi's relationship development. The more Lavanya mistreats Arnav will push towards Khushi to seek comfort... he will manhandle Khushi but then he will be the one to put balm of her wound while she heels him in her own ways. Therefore, please stop asking me to cut it out because I can't and anyways not much left as I plan to wrap up the India portion by chapter 20 and send them off to England, so bear until then with me.
Anyways, don’t forget to leave comments... and I want long comments on this chapter as it was quite lengthy, like over 15,000 words, so am sure you can write more than one or two words in comment. Also, I want to know your reaction on the something different that I tried in here with the flashback in flashback things, hope it wasn’t confusing. Okay, for now that's all folks and until next time take care and see you soon with another update...
With love,
Kavya
#PS: Would have updated on Sunday but that got delayed as the news of Sushant Singh Rajput was very sad... such a talented actor, may his soul rest in peace.]
#PS: Would have updated on Sunday but that got delayed as the news of Sushant Singh Rajput was very sad... such a talented actor, may his soul rest in peace.]
Well written entirely the journey of arshi is so heartfelt i liked the entire part from simple crush to dream girl and then one side love from arnav is simply awesome and abt y not khushi said that she is d girl i think she dont want arnav to think she is clenching to him when he is in his low or something like that may be 🧐🧐🧐
ReplyDeletePlz update next chapter soon cant wait the next chapter
It was really very good chapter. Flashback was much needed. Thank you so much for update.I always eagerly wait for this story. Please update as soon as possible 😊😊
ReplyDeleteLoved it.... And welcome back dear
ReplyDeleteVery nice and informative chapter. It answered a lot of questions about why arnav was so into lavanya.
ReplyDeleteReally loved the chapter. Arnav was so into his Mahiya from his teenage. And why this Lavanya can't get a reality check and her sister who instead of guiding her in right path is supporting to be a homewrecker. I really just can't wait for the part where arnav comes to know that Khushi is his Mahiya. Please update the next chapter soon
ReplyDeleteThat was an awesome chapter.... Loved seeing the teenage arnav having a crush on a girl he had not seen.
ReplyDeleteAbout lavanya she is one confused soul. Is she mentally unstable or what even after samar making her understand in such clear words she couldn't got that.
Well loved this chapter eagerly waiting for the next one
Loved the chapter, brilliant. Love the flashbacks as showing a clearer picture of the past on Arnav Khushi love story and his distance between Lavanya. Lavanya has not changed at all, confused and demanding in the past and present. Eager for the next part, ongoing flashbacks of the progressive love story of Arshi with the nice present of them together.
ReplyDeleteLoved it .. brilliant. Love the flashbacks as showing a clearer picture of the past
ReplyDeleteI hope lavanya gets that straight into her head that arnav has moved on.. Well loved this chapter eagerly waiting for the next one.
https://kroctales.com/
Awesome update you have menage present and past part brilliantly
ReplyDeleteHey I just loved it I want Lavanya to regret badly she had torched arnav alot after everything done again she want arnav.not only arnav she had hurt Samar also and that dumb Anjali is still supporting and encouraging she is making her dumb and she is not at all thinking about future I love my Khushi she is an angel .iam badly waiting for upcoming updates Pls don't stop in middle kavya
ReplyDeleteThat was such a deep chapter that gives a insight of arnav love.the flashback love story is really breaking my heart to see khusKh POV.cant wait to see the chapter where arnav finds his mahi.is Khushi mother related to sakshi Gupta?this was an awesome chapter.please don't make us wait tooo long.
ReplyDeleteI loved this chapter so much that I read it twice! Now it makes sense how much khushi and arnav knew each other before they met in India. Their bond is deeper than what arnav and lavanya had. I hope someone knocks some sense into her head because she definitely needs to wake up from her dreams. All in all, this was a good chapter. Please update soon this month. There’s only few days left of July, please update at least once.
ReplyDeleteI loved this chapter so much that I read it twice! Now it makes sense how much khushi and arnav knew each other before they met in India. Their bond is deeper than what arnav and lavanya had. I hope someone knocks some sense into her head because she definitely needs to wake up from her dreams. All in all, this was a good chapter. Please update soon this month. There’s only few days left of July, please update at least once.
ReplyDeleteAmazing ! Please update soon
ReplyDelete