Chapter Eleven

Arnav drove Khushi back to Raizada Mansion. When they arrived, they got out of the car and Arnav held her hand. They were about to walk in when Arnav stopped and remembered something.

"What's wrong Arnavji," Khushi asked.

"Nothing. Um, why don't you go on inside and I'll join you. Hmm?"

Khushi nodded and went inside. She waited for Arnav to arrive and soon enough, he did. Arnav was surprised to see her waiting there, since he thought she was with the others. The two just looked at each other, not saying anything.

"Nanav?"

Arnav and Khushi turned to see NK.

"Nanav? Khushiji? What are you two doing here? And Nanav, what's in that bag?"

Khushi hadn't realized and looked at the bag in Arnav's hand.

Arnav was about to open his mouth to say something, when Anjali came.

"There you three are," Anjali exclaimed. "NK Bhai, go freshen up."

NK nodded.

"Khushiji, why don't you come with me and- what happened to your wrist?"

"N-nothing Anjaliji," Khushi said, trying to end the topic.

NK gasped dramatically, holding his face with his hands. "Khushiji?! Yeh josh kaise lagai?"

"Josh nai Nanheji, chot. And it's nothing-"

"Di," Arnav said, cutting in, "why don't you just take her up so she can freshen up, hmm?"

Anjali nodded. "As you say Janab," Anjali bowed, making Arnav role his eyes.

*~*

Khushi had washed up and was about to place her dupatta around her neck, when she saw a navy blue bag on the dresser. Khushi realized that it was the same bag Arnav was holding earlier. She also noticed that her name was on the tag. Curious, she opened the bag and found bangles.

"Churiyan," Khushi gushed.

She quickly opened up the wrapping and put them on.

Wah, she said in her head. Perfect size!

She put them all on and began to play with them, making tinkling noises. Khushi looked up in the mirror and saw Arnav standing before the door, looking at her from the hallway. He smiled at her and Khushi gazed at him.

Just then, Anjali came in, so Arnav quickly left before getting caught.

"Khushiji, drink this," Anjali said, holding a glass or milk, mixed with turmeric.

Khushi simply blinked, still looking in the mirror. Arnavji bought these for me? I'm so in shock! First he asks to marry him, then kiss him, then earlier today, and now this? Khushi's head spun and she shook it. Is this the same Arnavji I met on the night of June 6th?

Khushi's head spun even more and she fainted.

"Khushiji," Anjali cried out.

*~*

"Khushi?"

"Khushi are you okay?"

"Khushiji?"

"Khushi betiyan are you okay?"

"Titaliya?"

Khushi moved her head slightly, murmuring something that no one understood. She slowly opened her eyes and found Arnav sitting next to her.

"Khushi, are you okay," Arnav asked.

Khushi tried to sit up, but Arnav stopped her. He had Payal fix her pillow and then she sat up.

"Are you okay," Arnav asked again.

"I'm fine Arnavji."

"Fine? You just fainted! That's it, I'm calling the doctor," he said, getting his phone out.

Khushi held his arm. "Arnavji, no, I'm fine."

Arnav looked at Khushi and Khushi nodded to reassure him, Nani and Anjali smiling to themselves. The others decided to go back to the hawan and Khushi said she would join them. Payal was the only one left since she was helping Khushi. Arnav was about to go when Khushi held his arm.

"Arnavji?"

"Hmm?"

"Why did you buy me the churiyan?"

Arnav looked at Payal, not wanting anyone to know what he did.

"Churiyan? What churiyan," Arnav casually played off.

"The ones-"

"Payal, could you bring Khushi down?"

Payal nodded. "Sure."

Arnav nodded and quickly left. Khushi held her hand out and was going to stop him, but he had left. Khushi pouted and huffed.

He wants me to marry him but he can't admit he bought me churiyan in front of people?! Hmph! That too from the man who just kissed me and had me in the air!

Khushi felt her lips tingle and she touched them, blush pouring into her cheeks, but she quickly got the thought out of her head.

But I won't let him go this easily, and Khushi smirked.

Chapter Ten

Khushi was confused. She was finding Arnav's behavior very strange. As she followed Arnav, she kept thinking back to the day she met him, up until now. He was so rude to her, being the biggest jerk she had ever met in her life! And now all of a sudden, there was a soft side to him.

I don't get it, she said in get head. Arnavji is being so confusing. First he's cold and cruel, then he's arrogant and a jerk, and then he's... a sweetheart.

Arnav let go of her hand, bringing Khushi back to earth. She looked around and realized it was dark.

"Arnavji-"

She turned to look at him, but he was gone.

"Arnavji?"

She looked around. She was alone, in the dark, Arnav nowhere to be found.

"Arnavji?!"

Suddenly, the lights turned on. Khushi covered her eyes to the sudden burst of light and then blinked to see. What she saw, surprised her. Ahead of her was a gazebo, all decorated with flowers. There were twinkling lights shining, going around the columns of the posts. Khushi was marveled and went up the steps and went in. She absolutely loved it and started to twirl. It was just too pretty and adorable!

Arnav came out and looked at Khushi as she twirled. She was completely giddy with joy and went running to the flowers to smell their aroma.

Khushi felt like she was being watched and turned. She saw Arnav looking at her admiringly and she looked down and blushed, feeling slightly embarrassed. Arnav found that cute and walked over to her. Khushi saw him approaching and clutched her dupatta. He came before her and held his hand out. Khushi looked at it confusedly and then at him. His eyes were shining in the light and Khushi was mesmerized.

Without even realizing, Khushi placed her hand in his. Arnav held it firmly and led her back towards the middle. He produced a small remote from his pocket and clicked on a button. At that instant, music started to play.

Khushi didn't even realize that they were even dancing. She was glued to Arnav's eyes as he looked back at her. She remembered the sangeet and how they had danced. She remembered the chemistry they had, the pull that they had.

Soon the song ended and Arnav held her against him. The two gazed away at each other, unable to break away.

Arnav was caught up in Khushi's beauty. He felt a desire build up for her inside. He had her right here, right in front of her. And the way he saw it, Khushi was glued into him, gazing into his eyes, just like he was gazing into hers. His eyes traveled down to her lips and they stuck there. Khushi hadn't realized and continued to look at him.

Arnav slid a hand up from her waist to her cheek, caressing it. Khushi looked at it and took in a sharp breath. Her eyes drifted shut and she brought her hand up to hold his. Arnav tilted her face up to his and Khushi looked up into his eyes. She could see the desire clearly written in them, and she gulped.

Arnav leaned in closer to her face. Khushi began to feel hesitant. She remembered back to Diwali and how they were in the same condition. Inside, she had wanted him to kiss her, but that didn't end up happening then. Once again the feelings were sprouting and she wanted to feel his lips on hers.

What the?! What are you thinking Khushi, she yelled in her head.

She opened her eyes and found Arnav really close to her. And he was coming in closer, making Khushi's eyes drift shut again. She waited for Arnav's lips to meet hers, though inside, she was fighting against herself. One side of her was in pain, wanting him to hurry. Another side was saying are you crazy Khushi?! Another was going what the?! And the last one was going Khushi! Since when did you say "what the"?!

And while she debated, she hadn't even realized Arnav was half a centimeter away. And soon, his lips landed on hers. Khushi's eyes shot open wide and she gasped. Arnav took advantage of it and darted his tongue inside her mouth. Khushi was in complete shock as he did wonders in her mouth. But soon, she melted. Her eyes drifted shut and and her legs gave out. Arnav held her firmly, his arms wrapped at her waist, and held her against his chest. Khushi allowed him to do as he pleased, and slowly, brought her arms up and wrapped them around his neck.

Needing air, Khushi pulled away. Her eyes remained shut as she caught her breath. Arnav leaned his forehead against hers and caught on his breath as well. The two tugged on the same air, holding each other for support.

"Khushi," Arnav breathed.

Khushi shuddered.

"Marry me," he whispered.

Khushi looked up at him in wonder.

"Marry me Khushi."

Arnav looked down at her and the two were lost in gaze.

"Khushi, will you marry me?"

Khushi couldn't believe it. He really, truly did want to marry her. He wasn't just marrying her for what she thought, which was just to prove that she can't do everything. He really did care and he really did want her to marry him!

Khushi looked into his eyes and saw his nervousness spike. Though he was trying hard to hide it, his eyes gave away his vulnerability. And not only that, but his eyes were filled with love.

And that was exactly what Khushi wanted to know.

"Yes," she breathed.

Though she didn't want to admit it, she knew from a while back that she was, indeed, in love with Arnav Singh Raizada. That was why she kept seeing him everywhere and imagined catching stars in her dupatta.

Arnav gaped. "What," he breathed.

"Yes... Yes, I will marry you," she smiled lightly.

Arnav couldn't believe it! He broke into a goofy smile and picked Khushi up, spinning her around. Khushi couldn't believe this was happening. Was this really the same man she had met not that long ago?

Arnav placed her down and kissed her again, surprising Khushi once more. When he let go, he cupped her face in his hands and kissed her cheek.

"I can't wait to tell everyone else," Arnav whispered against it.

Khushi blushed and looked away. Arnav tilted her chin up so she would look at him and then pecked her lips.

"Thank you Khushi," he murmured against her lips.

"For what," she replied.

He looked at her. "For ruining my show and falling off the stage and into my arms."

Though it sounded weird, it sounded sweet to Khushi and she smiled and hugged him, burying her face in his chest.

Chapter Nine

While things were going on between Arnav and Khushi, elsewhere...

"See Nani! I told you," Anjali exclaimed.

"I know! And did you see? He didn't even yell! Nothing!"

"Nani, I'm so sure - absolutely sure that there is something between them. Pakka!"

"Hmm... and we'll definitely get this solved. But first, let's see what Chote has to say."

*~*

Arnav was at the poolside, watering his plants, when he heard his sister.

"Seriously Nani," Anjali said, making herself loud and clear. "We really would make a big loss if Khushiji got married."

And that caught Arnav's attention.

"Haan Anjali betiyan," Nani said loud and clear. "It really would be. It's not everyday you meet such a bubbly girl, who also has sanskar."

"Haan Nani. ... But what if we got her married into our family? We have an eligible bachelor in our home," she looked at Arnav, as well as Nani.

Arnav found this as a good chance and pretended to be done with his work and was heading to his room to get his phone.

"Oh Chote," Anjali called him over. "You're here? Perfect! You can help us with our decision."

"What decision?"

"To make Khushi betiyan a member of this family," Nani said.

Arnav pretended to think about it. "I don't know... I mean, main aur Khushi-"

"No," Anjali exclaimed. "Not you and Khushiji. We were talking about Khushiji and NK Bhai," she stressed.

"What?! NK?!"

The two nodded, watching his expression carefully.

"And Khushi?"

"Haan," both replied.

Arnav looked away and shook his head. "You know what, I don't know. Whatever," and he walked away.

As soon as Arnav was out of sight, the two ladies giggled.

"Now let's wait for Khushi betiyan," Nani said.

*~*

The Gupta family arrived, bringing in presents for the Raizada's. Arnav came in last and looked at Khushi, who was standing beside NK, and that wasn't so great after the conversation him and his Nani and Di had.

The Gupta's were lead in, and Nani and Anjali noticed the eye lock between Arnav and Khushi.

"Khushiji," NK said, "let me help you," and he took the gifts.

"Thank you Nanheji," Khushi smiled lightly.

The two began to walk and Nani nudged Anjali.

"Don't Khushi betiyan and Nanhe make a good pair," Nani asked.

Anjali nodded.

"Yeah," Arnav said. "One is half mental, the other is half crazy."

Khushi paused and looked at him.

"The perfect pair."

Khushi glared at Arnav while he looked at her with no expression. Khushi turned on her heels and turned away to join her family. Arnav followed behind and Nani and Anjali giggled.

*~*

Everyone was seated at the hawan but there was one problem. The ghee was left behind at GH and Khushi decided she would go. Arnav was about to offer taking her, but NK piped up fast. The family agreed and Khushi and NK left.

It had been a while, and the two hadn't returned. Arnav was calling Khushi nonstop, and Anjali saw Khushi's phone flashing. She picked it up and saw Arnavji and she knew immediately who it was, and went to Arnav.

"Chote?"

"Yeah Di?"

"Why are you calling Khushiji nonstop? Besides, she left her phone."

Arnav looked at the phone and clenched his jaws.

"Don't worry Chote; they'll be back soon."

Arnav nodded, but didn't feel right about it. "But it's been so long. Plus the hawan needs to take place, so I'll go get them."

Before Anjali could say anything, Armav left. He drove to GH but the door was locked. Going around to find them he had to be stopped because there was an accident of a girl. Thinking it was Khushi, Arnav panicked and went to find out. But just as he got near, the ambulance pulled away and Arnav was about to break down.

Determined, Arnav went to his car to follow, when he heard Khushi's voice. He turned around and saw her at a stall, talking the the guy. Pissed, Arnav approached her and turned her around.

"Arnavji-"

"Shut up Khushi! What the hell! Why didn't you take your phone! And where the hell is NK?!"

"Woh Nanheji-"

"Khushi, do you have any idea how worried I got," he exclaimed, cupping her face.

Khushi was in shock, but mad that he was yelling at her, like usual.

"I thought you were dead," Arnav yelled. "Dammit Khushi-"

Khushi pushed his hands away. "So what?! So what if I died?! What's it matter to you-"

"Of course it matters to me because I-"

He stopped. He couldn't believe it. Was he really about to say that? Was THE Arnav Singh Raizada about to say the three words, eight letters?

"Nanav?"

Both Arnav and Khushi turned and looked at NK.

"Nanav, you're-"

"Where the hell have you been NK?"

"Nanav relax. On the way back, the car broke down so I went to a repair shop. Then Khushiji's sandal broke..."

Arnav looked at Khushi's feet and saw her in NK's sneakers.

"... so I gave her my shoes."

"And thank you for that Nanheji," Khushi smiled. "You're very kind unlike other people," she smiled sweetly.

Arnav clenched his jaws while NK smiled.

"Anything for you Khushiji," NK said.

Back off, Arnav said in his head. She's your future Bhabi.

"Anyways, Nanav you...?"

"You guys were getting late and they couldn't start so I came looking."

"Oh, sorry, I forgot my phone, as well as Khushiji."

"That I know very well," he said sarcastically. "Anyways, you go check on your car and I'll take Khushi home so the hawan can start."

Before NK could rebel, or Khushi, Arnav went to his car. As Arnav got in, he saw NK give Khushi a gift bag. Khushi smiled shyly as she took it, and then went to the car.

Arnav drove off and Khushi opened up the bag. She took out its components and smiled.

"Churiyan," Khushi gushed.

Arnav looked over and then back at the road. Khushi took some and tried to put them on, but they wouldn't fit.

Arnav smirked. "Looks like NK doesn't know your size."

"At least he was kind enough to buy- ah!"

Arnav stopped and looked at her. There was a bit of the bangle stuck on her wrist, her wrist bleeding.

"Khushi, are you okay?"

Khushi said nothing, holding onto her wrist tightly. Arnav reached out for her wrist, but Khushi withdrew.

"Khushi, give me your wrist."

"No! I can handle-"

"Give me your wrist!"

Khushi flinched and Arnav got hold of her wrist. He raised it up a bit and analyzed it.

"This is going to hurt," he said lowly.

Khushi just stared at him as Arnav lowered his head and pulled the piece out with his mouth. She shut her eyes in pain but soon it disappeared. She looked up at Arnav and saw him throw the piece out the window.

He looked back at her. "You okay?"

Khushi managed to nod once.

"Why couldn't you be more careful?! If it doesn't fit, then why'd you forcefully put it on?!"

And the Laad Governor was back.

"Because of you," Khushi said.

"What the-"

"You were being so arrogant and-"

She stopped and huffed. The man was unbelievable! Arnav huffed, thinking she was unbelievable and started to drive again.

After a while of driving, Khushi noticed that they were on an unknown path. After being in the car with Arnav several times going back and forth from his place and her place, she knew the path well, but this was not one of those roads.

"Arnavji, this isn't the way home."

"I know."

Khushi got confused. "Arnavji where are we going?"

"Somewhere."

"Arnavji, take me back-"

"No."

"Take me back! Or else... Or else I'll-"

Arnav looked at her. "Or else what?"

"I'll... I'll... I'll jump out of the car!"

Arnav smirked, looking back forward. Khushi simply gaped.

He doesn't care, she exclaimed in her head. And he wants me to marry him?! Hmph! Laad Governor kahike.

"Arnavji, I'm serious."

"Okay."

Khushi gaped. That's it!

She tried to open the door, but the doors auto locked. She looked back at Arnav, gaping.

"I'm not losing you so easily Khushi," Arnav said softly.

Khushi couldn't believe what she had heard. And the way he said it, stuck to her head. Arnav glanced at her and gave her a shy smile and Khushi felt her heart melt.

Wow, Khushi said in her head. When he smiles like that... he looks so cute.

And then it hit her.

Did I just call Arnavji cute?! No, no, no, no! No I couldn't have! But I did! She bit her nails. Hey DM, what's happening?!

Dhak-dhak! Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak! Dhak-dhak!

Not again!

"What's wrong Khushi," Arnav asked.

"Nothing," she said a little to quickly.

Arnav came to a stop and Khushi froze.

What now, she exclaimed in her head.

"Get out-"

"Arnavji, I swear on jalebis that it's not a big deal-"

"Get out."

"But-"

"Khushi get out so I can show you why we're here."

Khushi was confused but she managed to listen. She got out of the car and Arnav did as well. Arnav went around to her side and held out his hand, Khushi looking at it confused.

"Take my hand," Arnav said softly.

Of all things for Arnav to say, she didn't expect him to say something like that to her. Khushi held his hand with her index finger and thumb.

Arnav chuckled. "Not like that. I mean hold my hand."

Khushi was confused, but did as Arnav said. She let her hand go in his, holding his hand. Arnav held it securely and Khushi's eyes shot up to his. Arnav was already looking at her and he had a soft smile playing on his lips.

"Come," he simply said, and Khushi followed, wondering what on earth Arnav Singh Raizada was up to.

Chapter Eight

Khushi ran to the main door and caught her breath. She couldn't believe what she had done!

Did I... did I just kiss him? Did i really, she said in her head.

Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak!

Why does this keep happening? Why does my heart go crazy?

Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak!

Khushi shut her eyes and an image of Arnav flashed before her. She quickly opened them and felt her heart speed up. She shut it again and an image of him popped up again. She opened them and couldn't figure out what was going on with her.

Taking a deep breath, she was about to open the door, when a strong pair of hands trapped her in between.

Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak!

Khushi gulped and shut her eyes. She knew whose hands they were and she didn't think that she could face him.

"Khushi?"

Khushi felt tingles run up her spine from the sound of Arnav's voice. Arnav slowly turned her around and she continued to look down.

"It's okay Khushi," Arnav soothed.

Khushi looked up at him through her lashes.

"It doesn't matter if others saw."

Khushi gulped and looked down.

Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak!

"Though I could've done it myself too."

Khushi gaped at him. And the Laad Governor was back. She turned to leave, but Arnav quickly placed his hands on the doors again and trapped her.

"Not so fast Khushi."

Khushi clutched onto her dupatta.

"You still haven't answered me."

Oh not that again, she cried in her head.

"Tell me Khushi. Give me an answer."

Khushi wouldn't answer so Arnav turned her around to face him. Khushi looked up at him and saw the softness in his eyes.

"Please answer me Khushi?"

To hear Arnav say please was like a miracle.

"Please say yes."

Khushi's eyes dilated. He was asking her to say yes? THE Arnav Singh Raizada really wanted her to marry him?

All of a sudden, Khushi's phone vibrated. She took the call and it was her Buaji telling her to hurry home fast.

"I'll be home soon Buaji," Khushi said into the phone, looking at Arnav.

Arnav looked slightly disappointed, not successfully hiding it all. He released Khushi and opened the door for her. She looked at him as she walked out the door, thanking him. Arnav attempted a smile, but that was all.

*~*

Khushi kept thinking of Arnav's actions when she got home. She was getting ready for the hawan when her phone rang. Without looking, Khushi picked up the phone.

"Hello?"

"Khushi."

Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak!

It was Arnav.

"A-Arnavji?"

"Khushi, I'm still waiting for your answer," he said softly.

Khushi shut her eyes. Again, she exclaimed in her head. Why does he keep bugging me?! I mean this is my future at stake! Hey DM! What do I do?!

And then an idea clicked in her head. She thanked DM and smiled cockily.

Khushi smiled a broad smile. "Well Arnavji..."

Arnav got hype. He was waiting for her answer for too long. It felt like ages to him!

"...  I've been thinking about this carefully, and I mean really carefully..."

Arnav felt his heart race.

Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak!

"... and after A LOT of thinking, I've come up with a decision."

Arnav took in a deep breath, but it didn't tame his heart.

Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak!

"And my answer is..."

Please say yes, Arnav mentally pleaded.

"... no."

Arnav felt his heart drop. "... what?"

"I mean come on Arnavji! You're asking me to marry you, I get that, but you asked it so wrong!"

"What the-"

"Phirse aapki what the, what the." She twitched her mouth. "Arnavji, if you expect me to marry you, then your proposal has to be like my dream proposal."

"Dream proposal?"

"Haan! Dream proposal!" She sighed. "Where everything is just romantic," she said dreamily.

Arnav scrunched his eyebrows as Khushi continued.

"There will be flowers all over and bright lights! And in the skies... the skies will be filled with stars... and my Amma and Babuji will be watching from above," she said, tears brimmed in her eyes.

Arnav understood how much it meant to her and that at this moment, she was missing her parents a lot.

"Khushi?"

Khushi snapped back to reality. "I have to go... bye Arnavji."

"Bye Khushi."

Both hung up and Arnav knew what he had to do.

Chapter Seven

What did he do? What did he do? What did he do?!

Khushi kept chanting this in her head as her family was bidding their farewell.

"Khushiji," Anjali said as she moved in front of her, "show me your mehendi. Let's see if it came out as deep as Payalji's."

Before Khushi could say anything, Anjali held her hand and looked at it.

"A," she questioned.

Everyone looked at her in confusion.

"W-woh, I said K but she probably... didn't... hear... correctly."

Anjali pursed her lips.

Khushi noticed Arnav from the corner of hers eyes. She looked up at him and her eyes widened. Anjali noticed and looked to see Arnav smirking at Khushi. She looked back and saw Khushi touching her cheek, which was all red.

"Hari Prakash will go get your ride home," Nani said.

"N-n-n-no," Khushi stuttered. "I-I-I'll get it," and she ran out the house.

While the others looked at her in confusion, Anjali looked back at Arnav and saw him smirking, walking away. Anjali at that point knew something was up... so she decided to tell Nani.

*~*

"Kah?! Are you serious," Nani asked.

"Haan Nani! I saw it with my own two eyes," Anjali said.

"Then this is perfect!"

"Yeah but... but will Chote ever admit the truth?"

"We'll get him, one way or another... and I know just the way."

*~*

The next day, the haldi was planned out. At the Gupta home, everyone had arrived to place haldi on Payal. At Raizada mansion, the same was going on with Akash. But for some reason, Khushi had to go to Raizada mansion, since her buaji asked her to.

Standing in front of the door, Khushi prayed silently, not wanting to see that Laad Governor at all. But faith had other plans and the door opened, revealing none other than Laad Governor Raizada.

Arnav shut the door someway and leaned to the side, moving close to Khushi, who had stepped away slightly.

"Hi Khushi," he whispered, his voice hoarse.

Khushi looked away, feeling herself go red.

"I see that haldi has the opposite affect on you. Instead of it remaining yellow, it turned red."

Khushi looked up, her eyes wide.

"Oh wait, that's not haldi. Then... is Ms. Khushi Kumari Gupta future-Mrs.-Raizada blushing?"

Khushi went crimson and stared at him wide eyed. Why does he have such an effect on me, she wondered.

"Because you and I are meant to be."

Khushi gaped. How did he read my mind?!

Arnav smirked and leaned in closer, Khushi frozen to the ground. Just as Arnav was about to say something, the door opened, revealing NK.

"Hey! Khushiji! Andar aye! Come in, come in," NK said.

Khushi smiled at him and looked at Arnav. He looked ticked off, so she decided to go with NK.

"Of course Nanheji," she smiled too wide, and she followed NK in, giving Arnav a cocky smirk before leaving.

*~*

Arnav couldn't focus the entire time at work. He could only think of Khushi - how close they were the day before, how close they were just before! ...before NK came that is.

That NK needs to back away, Arnav growled in his head. And she's with him now!

Arnav sat up in his seat.

Shit! They probably still are. And seeing NK, it's obvious he likes her! Fuck!

Arnav got up and grabbed his jacket off his chair and stormed out the office.

*~*

When Arnav came home, he saw Khushi and NK in the living room, looking at bangles. He needed to keep an eye on NK, so he sat in the living room, pretending to work on his Blackberry.

Khushi dropped some bangles on the floor and bent down to pick them up. Arnav noticed from the corner of his eyes and saw that the strings on the back of her dress were untied. He looked up and saw NK ogling at her back and he got pissed immediately. Arnav stood up and pulled her hair free from its hair-tie and Khushi looked up immediately.

Khushi stood up. "You shouldn't have done that. Just because I didn't say anything about the thing before, doesn't mean you can do whatever you want."

"Maybe. But before you do anything else, check yourself," and he walked away, giving NK a glare, who was looking down.

Khushi was confused by Arnav's words. What does he mean?

*~*

Khushi wet to the poolside with Anjali to see the decorations there. Nani was there as well, and she called Khushi aside.

"Khushi betiyan, the strings in the back of your dress are untied," Nani whispered.

She helped to tie it up and only then did Khushi understand. She now understood why Arnav had done what he did. And just as she thought of him, he appeared in front of her. Him still mad at her, he walked over to where his Di was standing.

Nani moved over to her grandson and Anjali went to Khushi.

"So how is it," Anjali asked Khushi.

"It's lovely Anjaliji," Khushi exclaimed. "Jiji is going to be really happy here. She'll have her husband by her side, as well as her in-laws." She looked at Anjali.  "Really Anjaliji, you're really nice! You'll be the best sister in-law ever," and she grabbed Anjali and kissed her on the cheek.

She moved to Nani. "And you'll be the best grandmother in-law ever," she exclaimed and kissed her on the cheek.

She moved in front of Arnav. "And you'll be the best brother in-law," and without even thinking, she reached up and kissed him on his cheek.

Anjali and Nani gaped. Khushi pulled away and realized what she did, and she gaped. Arnav was in shock - she had kissed him on the cheek, not to mention in front of his sister and Nani!!!

"I-I-I'm sssorry," Khushi stuttered and she ran out.

Anjali and Nani watched her as she ran out and then looked at Arnav, who was completely still, registering everything through his head. The two ladies looked at each other and pursed their lips, trying to stop themselves from giggling.

Chapter Six

Arnav watched as Khushi and NK joked around. He felt a pang of jealousy, so he came up with an excuse and left to his room. Khushi sighed out of relief when he left and continued with her jokes with NK.

Soon it was time for the Gupta's to leave, but Payal still needed to get some kangans. Anjali said she would get it from Arnav's room, but Buaji said that Khushi would go.

Crap, Khushi thought. Into the lions den we go.

Khushi left to his room and prayed to DM before going in. She knocked but there was no response. She knocked again and then opened the door. Arnav wasn't there and she let herself in. She saw a red box and picked it up. Opening it, she saw the kangans.

Wow, they're beautiful, she said in her head. Jiji will look even better with them!

She turned on her heels, all giddy, when she lost her balance and one of the kangans went flying, going straight into the pool. Khushi quickly went running over to the pool, pulled up her sleeve, and reached in. She was really close, but she still couldn't reach. She tried again and again, but still couldn't reach it.

Khushi sighed and sat on her knees. Hai DM, please help me!

She tried again, but this time, another hand reached in as well. She looked up and saw Arnav next to her, looking at the kangan.

She looked away. "I can do it myself," she nearly whispered.

Arnav looked at her. "I can see that."

Khushi rolled her eyes and reached for it again and Arnav watched her. She couldn't reach it and he rolled his eyes.

"Khushi, tum har kaam nai karsakti."

"Yes I can."

"Khushi, are you still going to be like this after our wedding?"

Khushi looked straight up, eyes wide. She didn't even want to think about that! She ignored him and went back to the kangan. She still couldn't reach it and Arnav ]reached in and took it out, and looked at her with a cocky grin.

"What are you even doing here," Khushi asked, irritated.

"Khushi, this is my room."

She looked away. Of course it's his room, she said in her head. "I could've done it myself."

She reached out and grabbed the kangan to take it. But when she tugged on it, Arnav didn't let go.

"Tum har kaam nai karsakti," Arnav said.

"Yes I can," and Khushi tugged on it.

"No you can't."

"Yes I can," and she tugged on it hard, Arnav releasing it too, and it fell back in the pool, splashing water on Khushi's face.

"Khushi, are you okay?"

Khushi looked at him. This entire time, all he kept doing was say her name - say her name in such a way that it was making her heart thump. She was trying to ignore it, but it ringed in her ears. The way he would say it was luring her into him, intoxicating her, all by the sound of her name.

"I'm fine," she finally said. "And I can do everything."

She reached into the pool and grabbed the kangan. Getting up on her feet, she was about to walk away, when she felt a tug on her dupatta.

"Aapki himat-"

She stopped herself. Last time they had gotten into this situation, she had thrown hot tea at him, when it wasn't even his fault. Khushi turned to release her dupatta from whatever it was and gaped. She looked straight at Arnav, who was holding onto her dupatta.

Arnav looked straight into Khushi's eyes, which were really wide. He saw her chest heave from confusion and a whole bunch of desires built within him.

"Wha-what are you doing," Khushi asked.

Arnav stood up from his crouch and kept his eyes locked with hers. "You can't do everything."

"Y-yes I can," she said, looking down.

"Oh really?"

He started to twist her dupatta around his hand, winding it around his hand and forcing her forward. He kept doing it until Khushi was directly in front of him.

Arnav looked down at her. "Really?" His voice was low and breathy.

"H-h-haan..."

Arnav eyed Khushi; she was beautiful, no doubt, and he thought back to the first time they had ever met, back at Lucknow.

"Whatever I can do," he began, his voice still low, "will you be able to do it?"

Khushi looked side to side and nodded.

"Laagi shart?"

Khushi gulped and nodded once more.

Arnav looked at Khushi for a moment. He really wanted her and he would proceed as he willed. Moving his face in closer, he kissed her cheek. Khushi's eyes widened on contact and she gasped. She looked straight forward, shocked at what he just did.

What... the, Khushi thought.

She looked at Arnav and saw the light smirk on his face, Arnav feeling proud of himself for finally being able to show some of his emotions to Khushi. Khushi pushed away from him, pulling her dupatta from him and ran out, leaving a proud, smirking Arnav behind.

Chapter Five

Khushi entered the kitchen and started removing the bits of dried mehendi. "Who knows what's wrong with that mehendi wali! Kitne bar mehne kaha ki mera naam-"

"Khushi."

Khushi shut her eyes, her heart beating and breathing pacing up.

"Khushi, I'm talking to you."

Khushi looked up and saw Arnav and stopped with what she was doing, hiding her hands.

"So tumne mujhe phone kiya," he said, crossing his arms.

Hai DM, how does he know, she asked in her head. "Phone? Nai! K-kab?"

"I dunno... mere, aane se pehle."

Khushi shook her head. "Nai, mehne phone nai ki-"

"Really?" He neared in on her.

Khushi stepped back. "N-nai'?"

"Oh really?" He hit a button on his Blackberry and Khushi heard her voice. She was in shock and wondered how it had even happened. Arnav brought his phone down and Khushi looked at him wide-eyed, nervous. "What did you say? Sorry or something?"

"Th-that's n-not me," Khushi said.

"Really?" He was about to replay the voicemail but Khushi cut him off.

"Don't play it again! Humne kahan na?! That's not my voice!"

"Is that so?"

"Haan," she said, pointing her hand up at him.

Arnav saw the A on her hand and Khushi moved her hand away. A small smirk appeared upon his face, but unable to be noticed by Khushi. He played his game.

"Oh really," he asked, stepping closer to her.

Khushi stepped back and leaned up against the wall and Arnav wasn't sparing her space to escape. "H-ha-aan."

He was about to play the message again, but Khushi stopped him, pointing at the phone.

"Humne kahan na? Ye hamari awaz nehi hain," she said, showing her hand at him.

Arnav grabbed her hand and Khushi closed it into a fist. Her eyes widened and she looked at Arnav and tried to free her wrist, but Arnav wasn't letting her and he looked straight into her eyes.

He slowly opened up her hand and circled the A. "Yeh kya hain?"

Khushi drew her hand back. "K-kya hain yeh?"

Arnav crossed his arms and sighed lightly. "So tumne tumhare haat main A lekha?"

"Nai!"

Arnav raised his eyebrow.

"M-mera matlab, haan! ... Hamare naam bhi A hain."

"Really?"

"Haan. Khushi Kumaaari Guptaaa. Aaa! Suna aapne?"

"Haan, suna."

Khushi looked away and slightly pouted, and Arnav found it cute. He was about to make a move when NK came in and ruined the moment. Khushi noticed how bothered Arnav was by NK, so she used that against him and she and NK left the kitchen.

Chapter Four

Khushi blinked, making sure that this was reality. It really was Arnav standing before her and she smiled in relief. Arnav had one eyebrow slightly lifted, curious as to why her smile wasn't the full bubbly smile. Eventually her smile faded and turned into anger.

She approached him. "Kahan gaye ti aap?"

"Excuse me?"

"Aapko koy andaza hain kya ki hum kitne pareshaan thi?!"

Arnav raised his eyebrow higher.

"Where were you? Huh?! Where were you?!"

Arnav just looked at her.

"Say something! Kahan thi aap?! I got so fricking worried!"

"Mere liye?"

"Haan aap ki liye!"

"Really," and he approached her.

Khushi's eyes widened and she stepped back. She realized what she had been saying and felt a bit embarrassed. Arnav thought it was cute how a little blush crept on her cheeks. Khushi stepped back and leaned against the table.

"Careful Khushi."

It surprised Khushi how he was caring for her.

"Chote?"

Arnav turned and him and Khushi looked at Anjali. Anjali approached him and lectured him, while Khushi crept away.

"Relax Di," Arnav said. "It's not that big of a deal, I was at a meeting. My phone was off, and then when I turned it on, it was on silent. But it's a good thing I left." He sneakily glanced at Khushi. "Now I know that people worry about me."

Khushi stopped and looked back at him. Arnav gave a light smirk and Khushi turned away, leaving the poolside.

"Come Chote - the chai is getting cold."

Anjali left, leaving Arnav there, smirking to himself to how Khushi had reacted.

*~*

Khushi had joined everyone else in the dining room. They were about to have their chai, when Khushi popped up from her seat. When Khushi had gone to reach for a tray, she noticed her mehendi and the A on there.

"What's wrong Khushi," Payal asked.

"...A?"

Everyone scrunched their eyebrows.

"M-matlab aylo Jiji!"

She handed her a tray with a cup so Payal could take it up to Manorama.

Meanwhile, Arnav was coming down the stairs, checking his Voicemail. He pressed a button and heard Khushi's voice:

"Wait a minute, why should I? I was the one who said I don't want to see his face. So why am I worrying? ...but I didn't ask him to disappear. Hai DM! Please do something! ...Arnavji, please come back... I'm sorry."

"What the," was all Arnav could say.

At that point, Khushi started to run towards the kitchen and Arnav looked at her as she went running.