Prologue

October 1, 2016 /

Central Park 

New York

 

“Almost there… a few more minutes Khushi, you can do it…”

I keep chanting the mantra, pushing myself to finish my run around Central Park.  There’s nothing like a run early in the morning to get me energized for the day ahead of me.

Five miles in forty-five minutes.

 

Not bad.

The first thought that comes to my mind as I finish my run and glance at the reading on my pedometer.  I walk over to the street carts to purchase a bottle of water near one of the many fountains in the park. Quenching my thirst with a bigger than necessary gulp, I walk over to the bench to catch my breath.

I take a seat on the faded wood, stretching my feet inside my Nike trainers. With full force they are showcasing the pain, pricking at the sole of my feet from being slammed across the concrete.

Having moved to the city little over a week ago from Delhi, this is the place I have discovered to come to get away from the craziness that exists in the fast paced metropolitan. An oasis inside the concrete jungle of New York City. Nothing like what one would expect in the midst of all the tall skyscrapers that are outside the perimeter of the park.  Luckily, I was able to find a modest apartment a couple of blocks away to enjoy the park whenever I can carve out the time.

One of the best parts of being in a bustling city, far away from everyone you know is that you can truly be yourself. It wasn’t easy by any means, leaving my family and a well-established career behind. But more of a necessity. I needed this escape. The time for myself to figure out what I wanted from life.

 

What is next for me?

Just as I am commencing to reflect, the familiar chime from my phone distracts me.  A smile curves at the corner of my lip, knowing precisely who the caller is even before glancing at my lit screen.

“Hi Amma.”

“Khushi, where are you? Why aren’t you picking up the phone?”

At hearing the frantic tone ringing inside my ear, I resign, leaning back against the bench. Not at all fazed with my mother’s dramatics, since this has become the norm since moving to the city.

“Amma, please calm down. I am at the park for a run and had silenced my phone. I just finished, so switched the ringer back on.”

“How can I calm down when my daughter left to go to another country by herself where she doesn’t know anyone? And after what had happened…”

Not wanting to discuss the topic she is spitting out, I snap out of irritation.

“Fine! Now that you have me on the phone, what is it?”

“Sorry Bitiya. I didn’t mean to upset you by bring up the past. But you are our only daughter. It worries me when I can’t reach you. I know you’re twenty-five years old, however you will always be my baby.  All I want is to see you happy, bas. You deserve that, baccha.” She pauses, taking a deep breath, before diverting the topic. “Your Babuji and I were calling to wish you luck for your job interview.”

Even through the phone, I can sense my mother getting emotional. I close my eyes, as guilt takes over for speaking rudely to her. Something I rarely have done with my mother. Or my father.

“I love you Amma. I am happy, and very much looking forward to starting my new life here. There’s no need to worry about me. Your version of being happy consists of me being married with kids. And for that, I need time. Please give me that, okay?” I plead, well aware it’s something that I am not ready for at this stage in my life. And if I were being honest, probably will not be for quite some time.

“You will always have our support in whatever you decide to do in life, Bitiya.  Ok, tell me, are you all ready?”  She quickly changes the topic, and I immediately relax.

“Ready as can be, I guess. The interview is later this morning, so there’s some time. Anyway, this is the third round, let’s hope it’s the final one with the CEO. Fingers crossed, it will all work out today and your Khushi will no longer be jobless.”

“You will get the position, pakka. I know Devi Maiya will make everything okay for you. Do you know, I even went to the mandir earlier to pray for you.  Sab theek hoga, dekhna, after all you take after me. Here, your Babuji wants to speak with you. All the best, and… I love you bitiya.”

We both giggle, hearing my father grumbling in the background.

“I don’t think so, she takes after me. Give me the phone.”

My parents are my world, and all I can wish for them is happiness. They are an ideal married couple that have been together for twenty-nine years.  I admire their love for one another and the bond they share.

 

Will I ever be able to find what they have, to fulfill their wish?

“Titaliya, don’t listen to your Amma’s nonsense. You are your Babuji’s daughter.  The only thing you have of hers is your beautiful face.  Okay, tell me did you have a good run?”

“Oh I am not getting in the middle of this, but I agree about being a daddy’s girl. But it’s our secret, remember?” I can feel his grin through the phone, making my heart content. “My run was great, as always. It’s time for me to head back to the apartment and get ready.”

“Sure, I won’t keep you since your Amma has kept you on the phone long enough.  Best of luck and let us know how the interview goes.  I love you, Khushi and we miss you.”

“Thanks Babuji, I will call you later if it’s not late.  I love you both very much and miss you too. Bye.”

I shut my eyes trying to push away the tears that threaten to fall, as I place the phone against my constricting heart. It’s only been a week, but living with my parents again for the last few years makes me long for their presence. More than I had originally thought.

This isn’t my first time in the States living on my own. I had received my MBA from Wharton Business School at University of Pennsylvania while working for a top PR agency before transferring to their Delhi location.

But it was time for me to move on. Luckily a headhunter, based on my accomplishments at the agency, recruited me for Vice President of Marketing with AR Corporation.  Since the position was based in New York, I jumped at the opportunity.  Today is more of a formality with the owner who was unable to meet with me in the Delhi office, where I had originally begun the interview process.

The meeting alert on my iPhone goes on bringing me out of my reverie.  I shake my head, not realizing the time and dash back to the apartment.    

 

“9:00 o’clock, holy crap.  Hurry Khushi, you are running behind your schedule, the interview is in one hour!”

I hastily run past the doorman and get inside the elevator while getting peculiar looks from the comers and goers in the lobby.  After a quick shower, I get changed into a white silk blouse, with a gray pencil skirt and matching suit jacket. I quickly blow dry my hair and apply some light make-up. Finally, I put on my favorite black Jimmy Choos. They had been a treat to myself when I received my hefty bonus last year after sealing a deal with a top manufacturer.

A glance in the mirror tells me that I am all ready to take on AR Corporation. They won’t know what hit them.

 

Dress for success.

And that is exactly how I feel.

Grabbing my bag, I make my way downstairs and ask the doorman to fetch me a cab. There is no time for the fifteen minute walk to the office, as much as I am tempted to take the stroll.

“Ten, Columbus Circle, please.” I say, getting inside the yellow taxi. The driver is off in a flash, stopping in front of the building in less than five minutes.  I have learned in a short period of time that these drivers can be aggressive. It’s best to hold on until you arrive at your destination.

As I get out of the cab, I glance up at the soaring 2.8 million square foot buildings, which leave you in awe at the man-made structure. The spectacular glass view is quite chic, adding to the New York skyline.

The buildings are known as the Time Warner Center. Its vertical mixed-use property is home to an indoor mall, restaurants, and a huge food market.  The two joint buildings house lavish residences, the Mandarin Oriental Luxury Hotel and the corporate offices to many organizations.

It makes me wonder, how great it would be to live here. The views and proximity to Central Park make this an excellent location, not to mention having everything at your fingertips.  Maybe one day. For now, I will have to settle for my cozy two bedroom apartment.

Once I am inside the building, I check in at the security desk before I am cleared to head upstairs.  After getting my temporary badge, I make my way up to the seventieth floor.  I walk out of the elevator to see a modern open office with light neutral colors and hints of red.  It definitely screams sophistication and class.

Suddenly, I am feeling a bit anxious, which is unusual. When it comes to my work, my career, I have always been confident.

 

Why am I feeling this way?

I push the thought aside, making my way to the receptionist.

“Welcome to AR Corporation, how can I help you?”

“Hi, my name is Khushi Kumari Gupta.  I have a meeting with Arnav Singh Raizada at ten o’clock.”

“Yes, please sign in and take a seat, I will call his assistant.”  She smiles, pointing to the sitting area.

“Sure, thank you.”

As I wait, I decide to take a quick look at my resume and mentally prepare myself for some questions that he might ask. Not sure, why. But my nerves are getting the better of me.

Based on my research, along with the last two interviews with various team members I have learned a lot about AR Corporation. Arnav Singh Raizada took over the failing family business after graduating from Harvard with his MBA seven years ago.  In a short period of time he has turned it around and started expanding the company through mergers and acquisitions in various fields.  It has since continued to grow, making huge profits under his leadership.  The man has a brilliant business sense. One would be fortunate to work for this organization under his guidance. I, for one, can learn a lot from him.

“Hi, Miss. Gupta. I am Lavanya Kashyap, ASR’s assistant.” A beautiful, tall dusky woman with an endearing smile approaches me, extending her hand.

“Please call me Khushi.  It’s nice to meet you, Lavanya.” I gather my things ready to follow her inside the huge open office space.

“Sure Khushi, I can take you to ASR’s office. He is just wrapping up on a conference call. Hope you made it in okay…”  Lavanya inquires as we make our way through the long hall.

I can’t help but smile at her liveliness, it’s quite contagious. She certainly has a warm smile that makes me feel comfortable and at ease.

“It wasn’t a problem at all, plus the building is well known in the area which makes it easy to get to.”

After a few more pleasantries, Lavanya stops in front of closed solid dark wood double doors of the corner office in the back.

“Here we are, this is ASR’s office and I actually sit in the cubicle right there.”  She points at her desk and then taps lightly on the door.

“Come in” A muffled voice comes through the door. And suddenly my apprehension is back.

“All the best, Khushi.  You can go right in, he’s expecting you.”  She squeezes my shoulder and walks back to her desk.

But, I find myself reluctant, standing there for a moment to gather myself. Taking a deep breath, I place my hand on the doorknob. Before I can turn it, the door is yanked open, causing me to lose my balance.

Just what I need, to fall flat on my face. What a first impression with my future employer. That’s if I even get the job after this stupid clumsy stunt.

But to my surprise, strong, solid hands suddenly take a hold of my arms.

 

Wait, did I just feel an electric shock?

 

What on earth is happening?

My wide eyes glance up to find the most deep alluring eyes staring at me with flecks of gold glimmering within the deep swirls of caramel. He lets go a moment later, once I have balanced myself to stand straight up.

Oh my. He is gorgeous and much taller than I had imagined.  His dressing style is impeccable. A designer dark charcoal gray suit, white shirt and a navy tie with his hair perfectly trimmed and gelled back. I push away the forbidden thoughts that have me practically ogling him. What the hell is wrong with me? The man is going to be my boss, and I should not be thinking about him this way.

“Are you okay?” He asks, in a rather deep husky voice.

 

Did my heart just beat a little faster?

“I…um…actually I am fine. So sorry, this is just so embarrassing.”  I stutter out, unable to form a proper sentence.

 

Get a grip Khushi, and don’t make an ass of yourself.

“How about we start over?”

I nod feeling a bit relieved, as he gives me a small smile before continuing.

“Welcome to AR Corp, I am Arnav Singh Raizada.”

“Hi, I am Khushi Kumari Gupta.  It’s great to finally meet you.”

As he extends his out, I place my hand in his for a shake. And there it is. The current. Again.

This is going to be one long interview…

 

Pehli Nazar Mein

Kaise Jaado Kar Diya

Tera Ban Baita Hai

Mera Jiya

Jaane Kya Hoga

Kya Hoga Kya Pata

Is Pal Ko Milke

Aa Jee Le Zara

198 Comments

    • divsk

      October 2, 2016 at 3:03 PM Reply

      I love this plucky, strong minded Khushi who has traveled the seven seas determined to prove her mettle, to carve a niche for herself in the high powered corporate environs of NYC.

      She misses her parents, the warmth of their embracing love, but she remains firm in her decision. She has a ‘not so pleasant past’ which unsettles her… I will be patient and wait as you peel away the layers to gradually reveal her back story.

      Khushi’s first meeting with her new boss, the charismatic business magnate Arnav Singh Raizada has her literally falling into his arms. His electrifying touch and mesmerizing eyes leave her all hot and bothered!! How is she going to survive the interview? Is she is the only one affected by their proximity, their singeing first contact or is the mighty ASR equally shaken and stirred??

      An amazing opening Jigs!! Excitedly looking forward to Arnav and Khushi’s journey of respect, friendship, passion and love…😘❤️

    • Nivedita

      October 2, 2016 at 8:46 AM Reply

      Pehli mulaqaat and how!

      She craved the change even though she longs for her family. There must be a reason to quell the unrest by embracing a new city, I’m guessing.
      Parents never stop worrying do they? But maybe, this is what she needs. A new beginning. After all, a certain Mr. Raizada was waiting for her.

      And the setting you have here…even the hustle bustle and high rises unfailingly allure!

      From what I gather, Khushi’s a strong, independent woman, and needless to say, extremely good at what she does. Arnav is going to be floored I guess. 😉

      Fantastic beginning Jigs!

  • ragvir92

    October 2, 2016 at 12:22 AM Reply

    Wow Wow Wow Di
    Finally Stripped is back 🙂
    So Happy to read the prologue of my favourite story
    This Arshi is someone I adore so so so much
    The Characterisation, their profile,the way they carry themselves everthing is damn amazing
    Eager to read the remaining parts as well
    Way to go..woohooooo

    • sharuag

      October 2, 2016 at 11:13 AM Reply

      The prologue so fifty shades.

      Instead of Christian running Khushi took his place,

      And the first encounter, oh no, it so reminds me of Fifty.

      Its good to get a second chance to read this beautiful story of yours.

      I don’t remember much details of the first chapters, but the main incidents, i still do remember.

      The lively Lavanya caught me more and falling flat on the entry and him catching her… That was the icing of this chapter.

      Let the grilling begin

      Once again thank you for giving us the opportunity to read this beautiful story.

    • kkgasr78

      October 2, 2016 at 11:16 AM Reply

      “Iss Feelings ko kya naam Doon”?
      ♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡
      Ok, right here, mixed emotions r running in Heart & Mind. Golden old days r back again bringing immense joy, excitement & what not phir`se. I had lost the count how many times I have read this Masterpiece but being a part of this Journey again feels soooo….good. LOVE IT♥
      -was a silent reader back but now wanna break the ice dedicating this song to my ‘Jigs’ di & close to my heart “Stripped”.

      "Dekha hazaro dafaa aapko,
  Phir bekaarari kaise hai,
 "Sambhalee sambhalta nahin,
"  Ye dil,Kuch aap mein baat,
        ♡♡~~Aise hai~~"♡♡

  • mrshulkinfinity

    October 2, 2016 at 1:24 AM Reply

    Ahhhhhhhhhh Finally The journey begins <3

    Jigss When i read STRIPPED last time i hardly commented on any parts of it
    but I will try to voice my feelings about every beautiful part this time hopefully
    though i am not sure how …..I love you <3
    And hayyyeee The Pehli nazar <3 <3

  • khush@97

    October 2, 2016 at 1:48 AM Reply

    See I knew d moment I’ll read d prologue I’ll ve dat butterfly feeling in my stomach. I don’t won’t say jst lyk old tyms cz dat would b wrong 4 story lyk stripped cz dis story nvr ages. Every single tym it is same, dat ecstatic feeling aftr reading a line of your story. I’ll ve sumthing 2 look forward 2 every week nw, n thanxx 4 dat

  • anupamachand567

    October 2, 2016 at 2:18 AM Reply

    Beautiful start, dear Jigs. As I said before, look forward to reliving the journey with you and your dedicated bunch of readers. We are such insatiable fans of the show that all of us I dare say are bigger addicts now than when it was up and running. Stripped was among the first stories I engaged with on IF I believe, and left such a lasting impact on me. Enjoyed the second read so thoroughly. In a sense on a second read, their introduction to each other was very reminiscent of Christian Grey’s and Anastasia Steele’s meeting in Fifty Shades! Did anyone ever point that out to you, meri jaan?! No, I am not a major fan of that series, always thought the hype was far greater than the content merited!! I know, some are going to scream blasphemy here! 😎But regardless, this is our favourite jodi and the meeting has all the elements of a classic Arnav Khushi potboiler. That amazing electricity Khushi feels is so contagious. Waiting for Friday! 🌺🎉

    Hugs,

    Anu

  • deararshi

    October 2, 2016 at 2:50 AM Reply

    Can you see me happy😄😄😄😄😄.
    All because of this mesmerising couple😍😍😍😍.
    What a re-start😉 to say, loved this khushi for being a good daughter along with a practical, sensible person.
    And And
    Our Arnav Singh Raizada….❤❤
    Uff!!! His one entry only can make anyone miss heartbeat, breathing or anything in this world.
    Wish🙇 there we could have RABBA VE in the background.
    I m all set to see this ASR to woo this corporate world Khushi😙😙😙

  • Kishmish

    October 2, 2016 at 3:16 AM Reply

    Good to be reading this again … it actually felt like I was reading it for the first time only 🙂

    The song that comes to my mind for their first meeting … Electric …

  • monalisaa1

    October 2, 2016 at 3:53 AM Reply

    Beautiful. The way u described New York felt like it was I walking through the central park. I really wanna visit tht place

  • archnagautam

    October 2, 2016 at 5:36 AM Reply

    Amazing. It’s like ready no for the first time.
    Loved her over protective parents and their talks with daughter who is so far away from them. Any parents can feel like them. It’s so hard to send your kids away all alone. Every time feels like what they are doing, how are they? Wonderful
    First encounter and felt current already? Now just half of the work is left😜.
    Looking for to read it again.

    archnahardik123(IF)

  • anu1017

    October 2, 2016 at 6:43 AM Reply

    Thanks for reposting stripped J!! I am rereading it and I still love it as much as I loved it the first time 🙂 they met and current passed that has to happen right!!! Cannot wait for the next update!!

  • fermeen30

    October 2, 2016 at 8:08 AM Reply

    Love the prologue, first meeting, first impressions, brilliant. Eager for the first part. I’m reading it first time as when I found you you were writing revealed and stripped wasn’t available. Glad for the opportunity to read your first story and comment along each update. Regards lily30 from IF.

  • thefirstrays

    October 2, 2016 at 8:38 AM Reply

    Finally the journey begins! It is so good to relive the journey! The first meeting between Arnav and Khushi was electrifying! Also La is such a cheerful lady. Sach mein pehli nazar mein kaisa jaadu ho gaya? Mujhe Stripped se dobara pyaar ho gaya! <3 <3

  • chinni0704

    October 2, 2016 at 9:07 AM Reply

    Loved the Prologue
    Interesting start
    Loving to see strong and confident Khushi
    First meeting will always be different for these two. Loved it
    Current started between them already
    Looking forward to read this as this is my first time.
    After the prologue eager for the chapters to start to know their wonderful journey ahead

    Thanks
    Chinnulu

  • Varsha

    October 2, 2016 at 10:51 AM Reply

    Gorgeous hai na…tho obviously Jaadu tho kar diya hoga ….vaise the feelings might be mutual I think…even I don’t know his thought process…..😋😘😝

    & I always like Khushi & Lavanya being friends than enemies… Thanks for that..!!

    Superb… & their first meet already…😍

  • madhurao1210

    October 2, 2016 at 12:06 PM Reply

    Omg the journey began again…

    Jumping, having butterfly in my stomach while reading the prologue..

    Haaye!! their first meet…totally lost in their world..

    Looking forward

  • Elrein kaur

    October 2, 2016 at 2:18 PM Reply

    Hii Jigs..
    This s Elrein.. hv read Stripped Last year for the first tym nd den reread it many tyms..bt ws lazy to cmmnt nd for dat Pardon me plezz. believe me ws blown over by dis story..
    A Perfect story.. A strong, career oriented khushi nd Supportive Arnav 😍
    Looking forward to Relive the Beautiful journey of Stripped

  • SBF

    October 2, 2016 at 7:19 PM Reply

    Crap!!
    I totally forgot that it’s the 2nd already.. Actually here we are starting the 3rd.. But with this prologue, I think I will have an internal reminder right beside the one for temptation.. That thing that drives me to suddenly open the blog to fin an early chapter.. Counting the days till a thursday (if we are on track)
    Nothing to say except.. You, as always.. did a fantastic job.. Now I’m super duper intrigued.. What happend with Khushi that made her want to start afresh.. Lost love.. Death.. A friendship gone wrong.. And ASR..nothing to say here except that our hotwa comes back with full force
    Would like to see what will be Lav’s storyline..
    Oh my god.. This will be crazy 😂

      • SBF

        October 4, 2016 at 6:12 PM Reply

        Sadly, it is the first time.. Talk about late entrance. 😪
        Usually I’m not a fan of nicknames.. But this one will be a favorite from now on.. I love you to Jigs ❤️

        Now if you excuse me.. I will go brag about my special nickname that you gave me around the blog 😎😎

  • aranya19

    October 2, 2016 at 9:25 PM Reply

    Amazing start!
    I liked this confident khushi.. in fact I like the way in which u show khushi in all your stories… a confident nd successful woman…
    Waiting to know more abt Arnav..though he seems to ne quite a gentleman in their first meet…

    Very excited for the next part. ..
    Thnx for relaunching the story…

  • Anonymous

    October 2, 2016 at 9:52 PM Reply

    So happy to read stripped again. Was waiting for it. Your stories are stress busters in today’s hectic world. Thank you so much.

  • mamta

    October 2, 2016 at 10:39 PM Reply

    Hi jigs
    Thank u for posting it again.
    Hope some pics r on its way, especially the building or office which khushi liked so much.( waiting for the gallery).
    Loved the talk between her and her parents.
    Thank u once again dear.

  • canapoem

    October 2, 2016 at 11:01 PM Reply

    Jigs, thank you for posting “Stripped ” again. It is one of my favorite stories and it is a treat to be reading it again.

    First person narration style of a story is both boon and bane. While as a reader I know exactly whats happening in Khushi’s mind, I am anxious and greedy to know about Arnav’s thoughts.
    And it surely holds the interest of the reader more.

    Now I understand why you chose first person narration for “Stripped”.

    Though I know vaguely whats going to happen next, yet reading it again feels like I am reading it for the first time.
    So my comments will be written like I am reading it for the first time.

    Khushi is trying to move on from some bitter incident which has happened in her past. She has even moved to a different country to start a new life.
    It is natural for her parents to be very worried about her.
    Khushi is very close to her parents and she misses them as much as they do.

    But her determination to achieve something in life is very adamant.
    Well, one never knows what life throws at us and how it throws at us.

    Looks like just the first sight of Arnav, and the winds in her life have decided to change their direction.

    The description of Central Park and the offices are so vivid, it makes me want to visit New York again.

    Happy to be part of this journey again Jigs.

    Mohabbat rang de jaati hain jab dil se dil milta hain
    Mohabbat rang de jaati hain jab dil se dil milta hain…
    Lekin mushkil ye hain ki dil badi mushkil se milta hain.

    (Shayari by Pankaj Udhas)

  • bellacoolioif

    October 3, 2016 at 1:29 AM Reply

    It feels good to read the story again!
    I understand how anxious Khushi’s parents are! No matter how much a child grows up, she or he always remains a child in the eyes of their parents! Even though the child feels it’s a bit overbearing! It’s a never ending argument …
    But loved their first meeting..and lovely song!

  • orchids8888

    October 3, 2016 at 5:42 AM Reply

    Thanks a ton Jigs, for posting this brilliant story once again…………….

    It gives me a feeling of nostalgia…………………

    Loving to be a part of this journey……………..

    (orchids8888 from IF)

  • soniiadaula

    October 3, 2016 at 3:21 PM Reply

    Oh my ……this story is so special 2 me cos it has everything a strong heroine….a smart..stud hero ..drama.. romance…..
    I m feeling so happy 2 read this again😁😆

  • Greyasr

    October 3, 2016 at 7:02 PM Reply

    Loved it
    And i remember most of it since i read it a couple of times or more
    But its simply great to read it all over again

  • soharachowdhury

    October 3, 2016 at 11:09 PM Reply

    The prologue is intriguing.
    Their first meeting was explosive; Arnav caught Khushi in his arms along with dhadhak. Khushi already was smitten by her sexy boss. Can’t wait to read the Boss’s feelings for the new sexy employee.

  • debz875

    October 4, 2016 at 11:53 AM Reply

    Hi jigs😃
    Wow one of my favourite stories are back😘
    Apt song👏😘
    Ausum start👏
    U changed and add some of dialogue I think😃👍
    Hai mera arshi😘
    I am eagerly awaiting for khushis interview😋😎
    Arnav was playing so cool😎oops waiting
    Thanks for the lovely update👏👍😘
    Loved khushis parents here alot, specifically her amma😘
    Update soon😃
    Tc😃

  • anupama.jinethri

    October 5, 2016 at 7:07 AM Reply

    I am definitely in for this journey😊 Stripped is one of my favourite stories and i will be a fool if i let go this chance to reread again.
    The independent and strong minded khushi’s first encounter with arnav kinda reminds me of FSOG😉 but I find arnav much more intriguing than Christian Grey.😂 I mean this is Arnav Singh Raizada.
    Really excited for the next chapter

  • shonagudia

    October 6, 2016 at 1:58 AM Reply

    I m so happy n excited to read it again. I always loved this confident Khusi who was a welcome change form the docile n sweet one .
    would wait to read further..

  • Hetal Dave

    October 6, 2016 at 1:59 AM Reply

    Jigs, thank you so much dear for reposting this amazingly beautiful story,
    Though I read this story many times but still I am very excited to read it again.
    Sending you virtual hug n love.

  • R

    October 7, 2016 at 4:02 PM Reply

    Hey…
    Am a new reader.. to stripped that is…
    I have heard a lot about it…And am looking forward for enjoying this journey…. I do follow temptation ..and I really liked the strong female leads your portraying… It’s such a refreshing change from the show…. And your ASR seemed to be nice in all your stories rather than being a jerk as in the show… Loved it looking fwd to more amazing stories from you…😀😀😀😀

    • Chokri_ASR

      October 7, 2016 at 8:04 PM Reply

      Hey! I know you, really am enjoying your thoughts on Temptation, and looking forward to having you on Stripped!

      There are so many so stories out there with ASR being a jerk, and I have thing for strong woman… call it my signature, but it’s a must to include that in my stories.

  • Usharao

    October 8, 2016 at 5:08 AM Reply

    Very much delighted to get the
    opportunity to read it again. Thank you dear. I loved this story and both the protagonists.

  • sujee

    October 12, 2016 at 1:44 AM Reply

    hi,
    thanks for reposting this wonderful story again.
    i have read it many times but still it feels good to read it again
    waiting for the amazing love story of arnav and khushi to unfold.
    you are an wonderful writer
    you describe the emotions of the characters so well that it is like a movie
    thanks again for this story and all of your stories.

  • Prudencesa

    October 14, 2016 at 10:03 AM Reply

    Hi. I want to thaaaaaank you. Thanks a lot for opening this ff again. I just looove rhis story. Cant wait to read it again. Thanks

  • yoga1237

    November 13, 2016 at 7:46 AM Reply

    Thank you for Stripped………one of my all time favorites………I am very glad to read this story……it is always refreshing when I read this story……….it is a stress buster for me……….Awesome prologue………Arnav and Khushi intro……….Khushi has come so far to New York to start afresh………..

  • Jayeeta (tuli_jayee on IF)

    December 1, 2016 at 4:44 AM Reply

    Finally, I get time to start reading this story of yours (praises & recommendations of which I was having for a long time).

    From the prologue itself , Jig’s magic has started working. So, I am running to read the next chapters.

  • rk2127

    April 2, 2017 at 6:07 PM Reply

    Felt soo good to feel the stripped undercurrent all over again.

    So happy to be connected to this Arnav and Khushi and this story which introduced me to your writting Jigs.

    Thanks to choti all over again!!!

  • annabethpj

    April 19, 2017 at 11:32 AM Reply

    Can totally relate to the feeling of freedom in moving to a new city and not knowing anyone. Loved the fact that their first meeting involved K stumbling and A saving her, just like in canon. Now on to the next chapter!

  • luvraj4ever

    April 24, 2017 at 4:36 AM Reply

    I am here to read this one again… I can’t believe how beautiful it is to again read this one… It is still addicting…
    The office entry thing reminded me of Christian and Anastasia ‘s meeting…. Hehe hehe… Last time I was “Grey illiterate'” but now I guess I will make so many comparisons between those two and these two❤️❤️❤️❤️😍😍😍 it’s goin to be so much fun😍😍😍

  • sevi9

    April 27, 2017 at 12:07 PM Reply

    Jigs,

    Just started reading your Stripped… finished the prologue! I am all smiles and feeling nostalgic! Arnav and Khushi in a corporate environment took me back to the days when the serial was still airing :).
    Can’t wait to read more… so many Q’s on my mind right now (Is Arnav Khadoos, KKG antics..?) Taking a deep dive..

  • khushji

    May 7, 2017 at 12:47 AM Reply

    OMGGG
    I was so worried that i would never be able to read your work again
    But now that i have gotten the chance again, this time i will always share my thoughts.
    STILL CANT BELIEVE IT, THANKKKKK YOU

  • yaminiscorpio

    May 8, 2017 at 8:38 PM Reply

    How have I missed this story…
    Interesting start…..
    Looking forward to reading this one too…
    Please be patient with me as I have lot of catching up to do….

    saffron’s Ramblings….
    ❤️s…

  • inasaahil

    May 9, 2017 at 1:54 AM Reply

    Starting all over again with this one and be it n number of times you read this, the impact is strong. This prologue keeps us hooked to the story to see how the future is going to shape up.
    Well in this one you have just started off by giving an insight to Khushi’s character and I must say I like the her. From her conversations with her parents, we got to know that she has a past in which she was hurt but then she is not someone who will mull over that fact. And that’s what I liked in Khushi’s character.. she is strong and bold. And this brings about a refreshing change!!

    And Arnav, well we just have got a glimpse of him but while reading that portion it was as if hotness was oozing out of him… that’s how impact-full your words are.. And he seems to be polite and well-mannered as well. That’s what I got from the prologue.. At least he didn’t shout on Khushi for being clumsy and all!!

    So really looking forward to reading this one..

    Lots Of Love.. 🙂 🙂

  • shilpa1991

    June 15, 2017 at 1:53 AM Reply

    Hi.This is the first time i am reading stripped and I found it interesting cant wait to explore it more…but due to hectic schedule of mine..i know its is going to take lots of time but I am gonna read it and comment after the end of every chapter

  • cutiepieash

    June 21, 2017 at 2:10 PM Reply

    Firstly I am so so excited to read Stripped again as I have already read in IF but could not put my thoughts on it.
    So I am going to start my journey today itself.

    Second and the most thing is that if u keep your blog protected,please do include me too in ur list of invitees as I really really cannot leave your story behind!!!

    I Am a mobile reader and made my account in WordPress but I do not know how to sent an invite through this and I am.learning also.
    So please do include me too.

  • hhope08

    July 3, 2017 at 11:15 AM Reply

    I am usually a little skeptical about reading 1st POV stories. I had seen this story long time ago in IF but didn’t read it since it was in K’s POV. But after seeing how people praise this work, I just couldnt resist and finally gave in.
    So here I’m to join you in this journey.
    Really excited to read this story plus office romance is my favorite genre :))

  • Vin (newfan2016)

    July 7, 2017 at 10:30 AM Reply

    Hi Jigs,

    I am already re-reading Stripped 🙂, lest it should get vaulted out …😀. This time around I read a few initial comments too… the interview scene reminded a bit of 50 shades, but I did not get goosebumps watching Mr. Grey on screen, as I did reading about our favorite couple in our favorite city, and as written by you, Jigs. All set for my second ride now.

    Thanks for taking up writing, Jigs! You churn out all these beautiful tales that I can’t have enough of…

    Love,
    Vin.

  • themindmusesblog

    July 13, 2017 at 4:15 PM Reply

    Niceee..a good start to a very good story I’m sure..
    Eager to read more of this particular Arnav – Khushi now…office romance..ahh..my favourite kind 😍
    You’re a gifted writer..believe me!!

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