Chapter 3
Please note text conversations are in bold ๐
Itโs best to call it a night. As I am putting away the contract in the file cabinet, I hear the text alert on my phone go off. Grabbing my phone, I am shocked to see who the text is from. ย ย
Is he really sending me a text? ย
Why?
โHi. Just saw your email, so itโs official. Congratulations, Khushi.โ
Oh. He is texting to congratulate me. Thatโs harmless. Right?
โThank you Mr. Raizada.โ
It would be better to keep the response short and succinct.
โHow was the rest of your day?โ
โIt was fine.โ
โDid you go shopping?โ
โYes.โ
I canโt believe he is asking me these sort of questions. But, why?
โDid you eat dinner?โ
โYes.โ
โWhat did you eat?โ
โGreek salad.โ
โFrom where?โ
โEuropa.โ
โGood choice. Do you like it here in New York?โ
โYes.โ
โDo you find me attractive?โ
โYes.โ
Holy crap, what the hell did I just say?!
Before I can berate myself further, my phone rings.
โOh no, he is calling me.โ I blurt out, staring at my phone in hopes it would stop ringing. But it doesnโt.
Think, Khushi, think. How are you going to get yourself out of this one?
Having no choice, I swipe the bar to accept the call, and place it against my ear. But before I can even say anything, his deep husky baritone rings in my ear.
โSo, Khushi Kumari Gupta finds me attractive?โ ย
โListen, I didnโt mean to say that. I was just replying back to your rapid fire questions that you were throwing at me.โ I respond confidently, hoping that he falls for the poor excuse which makes no sense whatsoever.
โWhat did you mean, then? I asked you the questions and you answered them. Directly. And if I am not mistaken, honestly.โ
Hai Devi Maiya, why is this man set on extracting information out of me?
โWell itโs not what you think…โ
โLet me get this straight, so you donโt find me attractive?โ
A part of me is aware, he is not going to let this go. Inwardly taking a deep breath, I decide to come out and say it.
โFine. You are attractive, happy now? ย That is what you wanted to hear, I presume.โ
I can hear him laughing, and with that I canโt help but smile. Realizing what I have admitted out loud, the sensible part of me knows that I should probably correct the wrong impression he must have now.
โYou do realize that anyone who looks at you, would find you attractive. So itโs not as if you havenโt heard it before. Letโs just say, I have done my research, Mr. Raizada. You were named one of hottest bachelors in India, so itโs public knowledge.โ
โDo you think I take those lists seriously? Come on, Khushi, you should know better than anyone that itโs a marketing ploy. And who even looks at those lists?โ
I find myself nodding at the valid point he makes, though I keep them to myself. The fact still remains that he is very attractive.
Not that I am going to admit that out loud to him…again.
โObviously it has worked for you, if my research and the pictures I have seen are accurate, you have been seen with many different women at various functions. Itโs a well-known fact. โ
โYes, I will accept that both your research and what you have seen is accurate, but itโs not what you are thinking. This is not how I wanted this conversation to go, damn it.โ ย I hear him mumble the last sentence, which I assume he had intentions of me hearing.
Based on what I have read, he has dated a few women back in Delhi, though he has never been in a serious relationship. But the fact remains he is a desirable bachelor who has women falling all over him.
โLook, I am not asking for an explanation. Itโs your life and you can live it any way you desire, it really isnโt a big deal.โ ย I pause for a moment, as I am met with silence on the other end. And I decide it would be best to change the topic. โMr. Raizada, I have to ask, do you make it a habit to text and call your new employees to see how their day went? And their dinner menu for the day?โ I say teasingly, but inside, I am surprised by my own courage.
He takes a deep breath, before responding to my questions.
โOf course I donโt. And I did not mean to intrude this late. But since you are alone in the city and Di asked me to check in on you, I figured that I would see how you were doing.โ
โWell, regardless of what Anjali has said, I am a big girl, more than capable of taking care of myself. I am guessing, Anjali probably put on a full-on, dramatic act and you felt obligated to check on me. But really, it isnโt necessary. Which brings up another question, do you always do what you sister tells you to? โ
โNot always. Generally I do what I want. In this case, I didnโt mind. Well, I guess I should let you get to bed. Itโs getting late and I still have plenty of work that needs to be done before I leave the office.โ I can sense that his mood has changed.
โIsn’t it rather late for work?โ
โIt probably is, but I need to look into a couple of companies that we are looking to acquire and see if it indeed makes sense. The team has done some work, but there is something missing. Since I am not satisfied, figured I would take a look at it myself. Both are start-ups, the potential is there, so I would like to get to these figures before I meet with investors on Monday.โ
โCan I help?โ I inquire eagerly. For the next couple of days, I need something that will keep me occupied, or I run the risk of my thoughts going into a forbidden zone. โOf course, that is if you donโt mind. I have experience with start-ups, plus sitting around in this apartment is killing my brain cells.โ
โAre you sure Khushi? I mean, you donโt need to do this.โ Sensing the hesitation in his voice, I assure him.
โYes I am positive. Anything to keep me busy from getting bored. Itโs been a few weeks, and to be honest, I really miss working.โ
โIn that case, I will take you up on your offer. Though, not tonight. Tomorrow. I will send over the details, then you can take a look and provide your recommendations. There wonโt be a need for you to come into the office, as you can do this from home. ย How does that sound?โ He says in a business-like tone. Mr. Boss is back.
โThat most definitely would work.โ While my tone is calm, I am feeling ecstatic about putting my brain into good use again.
โWell, you just saved me some time, thanks. I am looking forward to seeing what you come up with. This has to be a first, someone asking for work before they start working. Now go get some sleep and I will talk to you tomorrow. ย Good night, Khushi.โ
Does this man always have to say my name like that?
โGood night.โ
โAnd Khushi, I know I am attractive, but try not to think about me too much. ย Sweet Dreams!โ He chuckles, having the last laugh before hanging up.
I gasp, staring at my phone in disbelief. This man is going to drive me insane.
Itโs best that I just go to sleep, and not think about him at all. This is going to be hard, since all I can see is his perfect chiseled face when I shut my eyes.
I wake up in a rather good mood and go about with the morning rituals that I have been following since moving out here. There seems to be a spring in my step and I credit that to getting back to work. I havenโt felt this good in a long time.
When I get back from the park after my run, the guard in the lobby gives me a package that has been delivered while I was out. ย I notice itโs from AR and wonder why the package is so heavy. It must mean itโs more than just files.
Once I get in the apartment, I open it up and see a new MacBook Pro, a security card for the building, some files and a note from him.
I quickly open the monogrammed note with ASR printed on the top and struggle through the almost-illegible writing.
Good Morning Ms. Gupta,
Since you have so kindly offered to assist me, I figured that the least I could do is provide you with the proper tools prior to Monday. ย Your laptop should be set up be with your work email along with access to our programs. I have emailed you some of the information on the companies I mentioned last night. The additional files should also help you draw up your conclusions.
You can email or call me with any questions.
ASR
After reading the very businesslike note I realize that itโs only 9:30am. How the heck did he manage to get this all together and sent over?
Duh, Khushi!
He has people who work for him that he orders around to get this all ready, remember?
I shake my head, then realize that it’s time to get to work, but first I need a shower and some breakfast, in that order.
After getting ready, I make myself comfortable in the second bedroom which has been converted into a home office. ย There is plenty of natural light in here, and that makes it a comfortable working space. ย I spend the rest of my day locked in the room, working. ย ย After various research on the companies that Arnav mentioned, along with studying ARโs portfolio I see great potential in acquiring not just one, but both of them.
Seeing that itโs almost dark outside and my stomach is grumbling after not eating anything since breakfast, I decide to stop for the day. ย The timing is right, now that I am at an ideal stopping point before I need to start putting together my presentation. I decide to send Arnav a status email about the progress I have made today, then shut the lid to my laptop.
It seems I will have to settle on leftover vegetable fried rice, since I am too lazy to make the effort for anything else. After warming up my food, I decide to settle down on the couch and turn on the TV. ย In hopes to find something that does not require me to use my brain, since I am tapped out for the day. ย After picking a rerun of my favorite comedy about friends, I sit back and tackle my dinner.
As I am placing my empty dish on the coffee table, my text alert goes off and somehow I know exactly who it is, which immediately brings a smile to my face when I see his name on my phone.
โYou do realize that I did not expect you to work all day?โ
I cannot believe that the man who gave me a lecture about working really hard during the interview is saying this.
โArenโt you the one who said that you expect your employees to work hard?โ
โYes but thatโs when you are working, technically you should be off.โ
โI had nothing to do today, so you lucked out :)โ
โActually, I would have lucked out if I saw you again ;)โ
Here we go back into the forbidden zone โฆ
Does he always have to flirt?
โLucky for you, youโll get to see me every day once I start on Mondayโ
I read it a few times before I actually hit the send button realizing that I am playing with fireโฆ
โAnd I am very much looking forward to it, based on what you have done so far, you just might be my favorite employee…โ
I am looking forward to it as well, I think to myself, afraid to voice it out loud.
โWell, I shall take that as a complimentโฆthank you sir!โ
โYouโre welcome, madam! Hope you’ve eaten, so now you can relax!
โYes boss, I just finished my dinner and was watching some TV.โ
โGood, have a good night.โ
โGoodnight.โ
There goes my heart, it’s racing again and that too from a text!
What should I do about these feelings?
For now, I am just going to call it a night and hopefully my hot boss does not come in my dreams…again.
The next day, I follow the same routine. ย Since its Friday, I decide to stop working in the afternoon. I need to get some gifts for Anjali, along with picking up food for me, since there is practically nothing in the apartment for consumption.
After spending a few hours outside, I rush back to finish my presentation which has me very excited about the possibilities of where these acquisitions can benefit AR. ย I am eager to show Arnav what I have come up with.
Once I am satisfied with my presentation, I draft my email to Arnav and send it to him. I let out a deep sigh and feel a sense of accomplishment for getting that completed. Now comes the hard part, waiting for his feedback.
Itโs seven oโclock when I close my laptop. ย I decide to get things ready for tomorrow, I need to pack and also wrap the gifts I picked up today. ย There is also so much to do around the apartment since I will be away for the weekend before starting work on Monday. All of a sudden I feel like I am up against the clock to take care of everything.
By the time I am done, itโs already past ten oโclock and I wonder why he hasnโt reached out about my email. ย The last couple of nights Arnav texted shortly after seeing my email.
Really Khushi, do you think he is waiting around for your presentation on a Friday night? ย He is single, attractive, and has women falling all over him, why would he be home? ย Perhaps he is on a date with one of those airhead models but who the fuck cares? I certainly donโtโฆ
This is why I need to stay far away from himโฆ
After a sleepless night, I am irritated to be woken up by the nonstop ringing of my phone, and when I glance at the clock on the nightstand, itโs 8:00am. I roll over to get the phone, annoyed that itโs my mother.
โKya hai Amma? ย I was sleeping, do you have to call this early?โ
โKhushi, itโs not that early. ย I thought you would be getting ready to go to the park for your run so I wanted to speak to you before that. Then you will be busy this weekend going to Anjaliโs house. I seriously think you donโt love me anymore. ย You move away from us and now when you start work you will be occupied. ย Which means no time for us.โ
Here we go, she definitely knows how to make me feel guilty. I wonder, if all mothers receive a special training in that department? If so, my mother was probably first in line.
โBitiya, can you hear me? Hello?โ
โYes, I can hear you just fine. What do you want to talk to me about, my dear pyaari Amma?โ I say very lovingly, knowing it will make her day.
โOh my sona bacha, so listen to thisโฆโฆโ
We spend the next ten minutes catching up on gossip on her part until she gets another call. I am so thankful for this interruption. I promise to be on my best behavior at Anjaliโs. I am 25 years old, yet my mother feels the need to lecture me on how to behave and act….unbelievable!
Once I am off the phone, I quickly glance at my text and email to see if there is anything from โhe who shall not be namedโโฆ.but of course, there is nothing.
Seriously, he canโt even acknowledge that he got the email. What kind of follow-up skills is that for a CEO?
Time for a distractionโฆCentral Park, my paradise in the city!
I freshen up, get dressed in black capri yoga pants with a purple tank-top and Nike running shoes. I put my hair up in a ponytail and strap my iPhone on my arm and head out of my apartment for my run.
After a couple of miles of running, just as I am passing one of my favorite fountains in the park, I collide into someone. I immediately close my eyes ready for the impact with concrete, but I feel two strong hands holding me up.
As I open my eyes, thankful for the save, I canโt believe who it is.
โKhushi, tum theek ho?โ Arnav says, concerned.
โUmm, yes…I am fine.โ
Is it really him or am I imagining him? ย Could I be dreaming?
We both stand there looking at each other, while he has his arm wrapped around my waist. Suddenly my knees feel weak, feeling goosebumps erupt on my skin.
As I realize where we are, I cough awkwardly to draw his attention to the position we both are in. ย He lets go of me slowly, not taking his eyes off of me in the process.
โAre you okay, did you get hurt anywhere?โ
โOh yeah, Iโm perfectly fine, after almost being knocked down by a guy who is bigger than me. What if I fell down and got hurt?โ ย I say sarcastically, remembering I am annoyed with him, but that quickly changes when I get a good look at him.
Oh my… Arnav looks sexy. His stubble is darker and his hair is tousled with a few strands on his forehead. He is wearing a grey sleeveless fitted workout shirt with black shorts and black running shoes.
โI am so sorry, I wasnโt paying attention. I was slightly distracted, but it seems like the distraction is right here.โ ย ย He mumbles the last few words. ย โAnd, Khushi, I would never let you fall as long as I am around. Thatโs a promise.โ
That makes me look up at him, taken aback at the sincerity of those words that are now ringing around me.
Do I want him to be around?
โItโs fine, no worries.โ I say quickly, shaking away the thought.
โI didnโt realize you ran, do you come here every morning?ยจ
โYes, running is actually one of my favorite things to do in the morning. ย I have been coming here every day. It helps me escape from everything and helps clear my head.โ I say without realizing what I have admitted out loud.
โWhat are you trying to run away from?โ ย His serious gaze meets mine, searching for more. ย
Somehow talking to him here, makes me feel content, though I am not sure I want him to know what I am running from.
โWhat are you doing here, Mr. Raizada? I didnโt expect someone like you to come to the park.โ
โItโs a beautiful place, I wish I had more time to come here for a run or even a walk. And now it seems, I should make more time, you never know who you’ll bump into.โ ย He pauses and takes a deep breath. ย โSo, would you like to get coffee with me?โ
Every part my brain tells me I shouldnโt, but clearly my mouth says something else which surprises us both.
โSure, I could use a coffee, but itโs only fair if you pay. You know, since you almost knocked me down.โ My mischievous smile has made an appearance after a long time.
โOf course, letโs go.โ He laughs, before we make our way through the crowds, heading towards the exit. When we approach the crossing light, we wait for the signal to make our way to the other side of the street. He looks down at me and smiles.
I notice that Arnav has a gorgeous smile that make his eyes shine. A smile that cause my heart to unconsciously skip a beat. And it dawns on me, that I have never felt that way before. Not even with Sameer. There it is my past clouding my thoughts again, which I quickly shake away. There is no room for it anymore in the present.
Feeling him tug at my hand, I am broken out of my thoughts. When I glance at him, he raises an eyebrow with a questioning look. All I can do is simply shake my head, giving him a small smile. One that he returns. This makes me realize that on several occasions this man has understood my feelings without me uttering a word.
Should I stop fighting this and see where it goes?
It feels so right to be around himโฆ
We walk a couple of blocks towards Starbucks in companionable silence. ย Like a true gentleman, he opens the door for me. ย We make our way to the counter to order our drink. ย He gives me a nod to order first.
โIโll have a grande White Chocolate Mocha.โ
โYou donโt want anything to eat?โ ย He asks me.
โNo, I am good, thanks.โ
โFor you sir?โ The barista asks batting her eyelashes at Arnav who is completely ignoring her.
โIโll have a grande black coffee and a plain bagel.โ ย He says pulling out his wallet.
โYour total is twelve dollars and twenty-seven cents. What name should I call out?โ ย She asks staring at Arnav.
โASRโ He sounds annoyed as he hands her his credit card without even looking at her.
โMy name is Lisa, by the way.โ
Arnav nods his head perfunctorily, then takes my hand leading me to a table by the window. ย As we take our seats, I giggle at the amusing scene that has just unfolded in front of me.
โWhatโs so funny? It drives me insane when women do that. Doesnโt she see I am with someone?โ The irritation in his tone comes out firm, as he shakes his head.
โI donโt think she got the hint, she keeps looking over here.โ
Arnav looks over at the Barista out of the corner of his eye, when he notices her watching him he groans. โFucking unbelievable.โ
โPlus, itโs not like we are a couple you know. She is just having fun…itโs fine.ยจ
โSoโฆโ Arnav starts, but is interrupted when the Barista calls his name. โIโll go get it.โ
He walks away, and I watch him go up to the counter. I canโt help but look at his muscular physique which is visible thanks to his fitted shirt and shorts. He looks like a Greek god, absolutely handsome and edible.
Edible? You must be hungrier than you thought, Khushi!
When he takes our drinks from the Barista, he leans in and says something to her with a serious expression, then points in my direction. ย She looks over at me and then back at him apologetically. He turns around and heads back to our table with a smug expression. Obviously he is up to no good, I just know it.
He takes his seat, and passes me my drink with a couple of sugar packets and a stirrer.
โWhat did you say to her?โ I quickly ask, interested to know what made that girl take her eyes off of him all of a sudden.
โAnd why should I tell you? You found this entertaining, so I have decided not to tell you since you were laughing at me.โ
โOh come on, thatโs not fair Arnav.โ Like a child, I pout and immediately realize what I have said out loud. Which has caught his attention, of course.
Damn my mouth. Damn him.
โWait a minute, what did you call me?โ The side of his lips quirk up, as he waits for my response.
โWhat? I didnโt call you anything, now can you just tell me, please?โ ย Seriously now I am behaving like a child. But I have to know what he said.
โHow about we make a deal? Iโll tell you what I said, if you repeat what you called me. Is that a deal?โ ย He puts his hand out towards me and I hesitate for a few seconds, then shake it. โLadies first, now what was that you said before?โ
Since I know he is not going to let it go, I decide to cave in.
โArnav, I said your name, Arnav. Sorry but I just blurted it out. Okay, now your turn, Mr. Raizada.โ ย I say throwing it back at him.
โSeriously you are back to Mr. Raizada again? It makes me sound like an old man coming out of your mouth. Arnav sounds much betterโฆโ ย He pauses looking at me while taking a sip of his coffee. โOkay Ms. Gupta, I told the girl that you were my girlfriend and if she doesnโt stop looking at me, you might get angry. And an angry Khushi is hard to hold back.โ ย He says casually, taking a bite into his bagel.
โYou what?! ย How could you say that? Oh my God, what must she be thinking…โ ย
โWell it worked, sheโs not looking this way anymore.โ ย He simply shrugs his shoulders, taking another bite of his bagel.
โYeah, but I come here all the time, now what is she going to think when she sees me.โ I shake my head, still in shock at what he has told the Barista. ย ย
How can he easily just say that I am his girlfriend?
โSo let her think what she wants, who cares.โ He says nonchalantly, sipping on his coffee, while I am sitting there speechless, staring down at my cup.
Arnav picks up his phone when it beeps with an incoming message
โDamn, I canโt believe this slipped my mind. Khushi, that was brilliant.โ Arnav says out loud, which has me clueless.
โYour presentation. The business plan you put together along with the strategies for the acquisition. The approach you outlined is intriguing and different from what the team came up with. It was exactly along the lines of what I was thinking. ย But you also made some interesting observations. I was on a conference call last night, and when I saw your email it was late for me to call you.โ
I feel a sense of accomplishment that he liked my work. And an odd sense of relief that he wasn’t with any of those airhead models I’d imagined
โThank you, I hope you donโt mind my recommendation about acquiring both companies. I wasnโt sure but took the risk anyway.โ
โNot at all, that was actually very impressive.โ He pauses for a moment and looks directly at me before saying. ย โItโs good to take risks in life, otherwise you will never know what you can gain.โ
I look directly into his eyes, wondering what he is implying at. Something tells me itโs not work related.
โI will keep that in mind, Arnav. Looks like we have been here for almost an hour, shall we go now?โ ย I sigh, and decide itโs time to end the discussion before it goes any further.
โSure, letโs go. Di has texted me five times already about picking you up on time.โ He shakes his head looking at his phone.
As we are making our way out of Starbucks, he winks at the Barista and then points at me. All I can do is run out the door mortified at what she must be thinking. ย He quickly follows me out, laughing at my condition.
โI canโt believe you said that to her. Anyway, thanks for the coffee, Arnav. Guess I will see you later.โ
โYes, I will pick you up around two oโclock, see you.โ
Walking back, my thoughts are all about Arnav. And for the first time I find myself not pushing them away.
Today is turning out to be a good day!
**********
Pal mein hi mujh ko mila pal naya
Kuch mila haan kuch magar kho gaya
Kya kahoon kya nahi
Laabz hai gum kahin
Hosh mein dil nahi
Tere aa jaane se, tere aa jaane se
Tere aa jaane se hoo ohhโฆ
119 Comments
~Ruchi~
Hi Jignasha! <3
Chokri_ASR
Hayee <3
Wissensdurst
I envy you Ruchi. Where is my hi? at least a collective Hi for the IF pankhis :(?Did you inform him that we are stuck in a time warp and unable to get out of ASR zone. Who knows may be he would’ve considered coming back to the TV.
Jokes apart, hope you had a great time ๐
~Ruchi~
A week on and it all feels slightly unreal! I did tell him that, thanks to him, I’ve made some amazing friends. Both real and virtual ๐ค
aranya19
Me
aranya19
I am just loving this story more and more…Fab update!!
Their text conversation was so much fun to read. .. Arnav is such a cool person here.. it seems that he has fallen hard for the beautiful, smart and just-like-him workaholic Khushi who definitely return his feelings although is trying hard to conceal it…
Their park meet and cafรฉ scene were also superb…desperately waiting to their journey to Anjali’s place..
Nivedita
Mine!
Chokri_ASR
Yours! <3
Nivedita
Arnav Singh Raizada just shows us why he’s synonymous with Swag.
He’s already conquered Khushi, I say. And pah! I don’t believe for one second he was checking up on Khushi because Anjali said so. Mr. Raizada knows what he wants. There were plans of an acquisition of another kind too. ๐
He somehow gets what she feels even without her voicing it out.
Sameer. What did he do to Khushi? But good that he’s gone(for now?) because how else would our couple have met?
Lisa doesn’t know it, but technically she was the first one ( even if by ASR) to know what destiny had in plans for Arnav and Khushi.
I will modify what Barun’s said to you – ‘Haaye Jignasha!’
Superb!
PS: Is there Arnav’s PoV sometime in the near future? I know the man is attracted but doesn’t hurt to know what goes on in his head. ๐
Chokri_ASR
Oh we most definitely have Arnav’s POV to get inside his shatir dimaag . Chapter 7 & 8 will be his POV, along with a Interlude and a couple of more chapters later in the story. ๐
udithadarshani
Wonderful update you can’t resist Arnav for long Khushi ๐ waiting for next
gkapoor123
Beautiful I haven’t read stripped before and really enjoying reading it
kkgasr78
Me too..โฅโฅ
sweetyperu
A beautiful update with irresistible ASR ๐๐๐๐
ragvir92
Awesome Awesome Jigs Di
Haye After how long I got to read this
Was missing this scenes(to read) very much
You have written so beautifully
Khushi is just so perfect in both personal and professional aspects
The same goes for Arnav
These two are really made for each other
anupamachand567
Jignasha๐!!! (Yeah, have to copy a Ruchi on this one for few days, as we live through the euphoria!)
That was sublime! Arnav Singh Raizada is well and truly hooked. He has fallen for the beautiful, intelligent and talent Khushi Kumari Gupta like a ton of bricks….and who can blame him. The feeling seems completely mutual, though Khushi prefers to stay focused on work and not let herself get distracted. His texting, his running into her at Central Park, their mutually shared passion of running, and the super fab scene at the cafe….all too fun! An instant and smouldering attraction like a moth to a flame…..hmm…equally lovely to read the second time around…..I think the quality of any great writing is whether you actually remember it long after you read it….I have to say by that thumb rule that this chapter and Stripped as a whole are all too well committed to memory! ๐๐ฝ๐๐
Best,
Anu
thefirstrays
Wonderful update! Lovex the text conversations bstween them. ๐
Khushi is definitely a workaholic. Both will get along really well! ๐
oh! How I wish to bump on a psrson like our Arnav someday!๐ but Arnav in shorts๐๐๐
A lot happened over coffee. Waiting to see what happens more๐
P.S. I love the songs at the end!๐
claucrispop
i love it…
i cant wait to see what happen next…
please continue soon….
Anonymous
A buitiful update
sharuag
The text banter, that was amazing.
It felt like i m reading this for the first time.
He is a killer and he is on a mission…
Waiting for their journey to Anjali’s place
I m loving this more and more..
eroniruni
Lovely update. . Love these convos between arnav and Khushi. Really glad That she decides to not push Away. Wonder what arnav really thinks of her. ๐
Chokri_ASR
You will find out soon enough what he thinks of her, coming up in Chapter 7&8 ๐
monalisaa1
Amazing update
nzmonica
๐
nzmonica
Mr Raizada has passed the stage of harmless flirting, he is wooing her in earnest.
Irresistibly sexy Mr Raizada is leaving Khushi flustered and with no where to run or hide.
I’m looking forward to them seeing each other daily, but before that is the function at Anjali’s.
The first text conversation reminded of an old old song….here goes
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=78JhA_TJvBI
mrshulkinfinity
Love love love it <3
anu1017
Such an amazing update!!! Loved it, totally!!! They met they collided he rescued her awe that was so much like a hero from a movie ๐
docbenna
Loving the flirty CEO and the not so timid new employee ๐
I think Khushi will be constantly on the run trying to keep up with his antics
First time a persuasive guy seems charming and not a moron who needs to be whacked ๐
Di you are amazing the differrnces in the character sketch of your different Arnav Khushi โค๏ธ๏ธ๐๐๐ป
~Ruchi~
“a persuasive guy seems charming and not a moron who needs to be whacked”
I burst out laughing at that ๐
Chokri_ASR
Same here, I am literally LMAO… ๐๐๐
simi82sikha
Awesome update jigs
ranogill
Loved it
sushnak
Awesome…..
Update soon…..
SBF
That moment when you read this story about hot successful gorgeous people.. and here you’re laying down the couch, reading and thinking about how you will pass this damn semester without overdosing on fries ๐๐
Khushi’s POV is such a great idea.. I love to read her inner thoughts.. insecurities.. her cute slip ups..
Personally.. I have no idea how she is managing such a radiating raw charisma.. I’m melting over here.
Adore this bold Arnav.. who won’t back down.. not shy about taking the lead.. you go ๐ช๐ป
I gasped out loud when she texted him “yes” that my sister stopped to ask If I’m ok..
this chapter is the right balance between cute and dangerous.. dramatic but fun.. the right temp.. not too fast, but at the same time not too slow that I’m scrolling, passing lines
P.S… you’re killing us, Jignasha in Barun’s voice
~Ruchi~
Tum theek ho? ๐
SBF
Reading this chapter right before bed and starting the next day with an early morning lecture, reading this chapter again under the desk .. I don’t think I’m the definition of “theek hai” right now ๐๐๐
Chokri_ASR
Just that image, had me ROFL… ๐๐๐
Chokri_ASR
And you kill me with you kindness! FLUFFY! ๐๐๐
fermeen30
Loved part 3, brilliant. Love these interactions between Arnav and Khushi. Eager for the next part.
Anonymous
Readings Stripped fifth or sixth time I don’t remember but it is still same feeling and same freshness. You are really a talented writer Jignasha
Chokri_ASR
You all are blowing me away with the amount of times you have read Stripped, thank you!
jtammareddy
brilliant update. love this confident and mischievous khushi. ASR + flirty Arnav is had combination to resist. Bring it on Asr khushi is one for u.
cutieeijaz
Awesome update. Love it.
Arshi2503
Beautiful update. Not getting enough of it. Thank you Jigs
Varsha
Hello…Jigs….!!
The update is superb…
Khushi U better take risk…ASAP….
Even U don’t Ur Boss will make sure of that…๐๐ป
neha2013g
amazing update.. khushi wont be able to resist arnav for long ๐
avchowdhury
Very nice update
nik1310
I remember most of of Stripped but this part I had forgotten… ; Flirty cute Arnav ๐ and khushi feeling forbidden territory ….I am ‘floating’ now Jigs…… ๐.
lovesaishu
Each update is bringing back such awesome memories and also some new realisations!!!!
Don’t know what’s changed,
But the thing which made this story connect to my heart is still there!!!!
Maybe I have changed!!!
Well the last time I read it, I was in college, still in the reel life fairytales
Now I am working, independent, “A Grown-up”
But living in real life fairytales!!!!
So something is same,
But some are new!!!!
Love you Jigs!!!!
Chokri_ASR
awww love you too! <3
hailstorm464
Really enjoying reading it again. And this is not the second time ๐
arjuhisis
They are truly a made for each other pair
Super duper update jigs
Loved re-reading it – Mr. Raizada is in perfect form and our khushi is no less
Will wait for the next update
Will it be on time dear? (Since u had put up a note on temptation)
xyzsm
loving this story..once again ๐
soniiadaula
Loved the update…….
4eons
Mr. Raizada doesn’t waste, does he now? So sly of him to make her confess he is attractive. I think before love enters the equation there would form a great camaraderie between the two first.
Amazing chapter!
kaur94
Love it even more the second time round
mamta
Hi
Second round of reading is more fun and I am even enjoying more.
1st time when I read u had finished 3/4 of the story, in hurry to catch up, sometimes I missed some flavours, which I am relishing now.
Loved the way Arnav is comfortable with khushi.
Looking forward for their weekend together
Thank u
Kuldeep Kaur
Very nice like it
debz875
Hi jigs๐
Wow haye arnav ne msg kiya Ms.gupta ko๐rapid fire superb
Their meeting at the park , chotawala unofficial coffee date๐
I liked how arnav went to get coffee told Lisa that khushi is his girlfriend๐๐
Waiting for their trip to anjali s place๐๐
I loved every bit of chapter๐ ausum๐
Update soon๐
Tc๐
mahrusweety
Awesome
Love it.
Beautifully written
swapna
Lovely coffee date. eagerly waited for their trip to Di’s house.
Swapna
Wissensdurst
Woohoo.. Stripped is open to public. Its one of my favorites. There is something about the story that touches the cords and who can resist such a handsome CEO. If you ask me it affects the productivity ๐ Their text conversations are the highlight of this fiction. Are you making any plot changes? or just rewriting some parts?
Chokri_ASR
I will admit, their text conversations are my favorite and so much fun to write. No plot changes, as I would like to keep the essence of the story. It’s really polishing and editing what I have written. ๐
chinni0704
Wonderful Update
Loved Arnav’s rapid fire texts to Khushi, their conversation, colliding in the park during their run was fabulous. Poor girl, her mind wanted to stay away but her heart is not agreeing to her wish. Both Arnav and Khushi are getting comfortable with each other. Loved how Arnav put Khushi in dilema saying about her being his girlfriend to barista. Arnav is not leaving any chance to flirt with Khushi and trapping her with his words. Now waiting for their weekend among Arnav’s family.
Thanks
Chinnulu
Broknangel
Loving it.. Again..๐๐
Anonymous
You are updating Stripped Again. I mean Like Seriously. Stripped was the first story of yours I read and followed. Oh Gosh I must have re-read the story so many times (say around 20+ times). Whenever I feel like I want to read a good story Stripped and Shaadi by Expel were my go to stories. I am so so happy that you are re-updating this story again.
I am so so sorry that I am not able to write up on Temptation. Blame it on my hectic move and with the kids school being started I am so so swamped by work and other stuff. I feel so bad that I am not able to come here more regularly but Stripped might do that thing. I will most eagerly be awaiting the next instalment of Stripped and hopefully my schedule will lighten up to be able to comment on time on Temptation too.
Thanks so much
-Sharada(psarada from IF)
Chokri_ASR
Hi Sharada! So happy to hear from you and excited to have you back on this journey! Hope all is well and you are settling in ๐ Do drop in as time permits, always have loved having you on my all of my journey’s!
mdtharun
ASR has fallen for khushi , it is love at first sight . Khushi’s friendship with Anjali has cemented his belief that khushi is the right girl for him .
ASR at his charming best , khushi couldn’t resist the man when he is all flirty . Even his text messages are swoon worthy .
The Barista will be cursing khushi for taking away ASR lol
Khushi is bundle of nerves when Arnav flirts with her , Arnav gives her little break in between to come back with smart retort .
Nice chapter , loving it
maitricuteheart
mesmerizing journey relieving it again!!!
maisah77
lovely update can’t wait for next week
jayasamhita
Good to see that both have fallen for each other. ๐
divsk
The savvy, percipient business tycoon Arnav Singh Raizada is completely smitten with the beautiful, bright and smart Khushi Kumari Gupta. She has unobtrusively crept into all his waking thoughts, making him crave her companionship, prompting him to text her throughout the day.
Lady Luck continues to smile on Arnav, as he unexpectedly runs into a surprised Khushi at Central Park. Loved their impromptu coffee date at Starbucks and Arnav informing the barista that Khushi is his girlfriend. How will an equally captivated Khushi resist the charms of this smokin’ hot Mr.Raizada ?!?!
Jigs, I am enjoying the scorching chemistry between CEO ASR and his new VP of Marketing Khushi Gupta…Excitedly looking forward to the next installment !! ๐โค๏ธ
Chokri_ASR
๐โค๏ธ๐โค๏ธ๐โค๏ธ
divsk
๐๐คโค๏ธ
P
The ease with which they fit in…..is what I love about this story…..
love2sarun
God I just love this Arnav;-)
Great work <3
linsiesamy
yes me to.. arnav is so sweet
archnagautam
Adorable update.
Loved their text messages. Arnav is all set to flirt with her and kind of made his mind to see where it goes. Now Khushi too want to see where this stakes her.
Her mother is adorable. Can understand why she is so worried about her only child.
In indirect way Arnav has offered her to be his girlfriend. Loving his approach.
Thanks for updating.
Archna
linsiesamy
Beautiful update…
madhurao1210
Its feel so good to reread and relive those moments.
Arnav’s text too good he is head over heel in love with khushi…loved the way he asked am i attractive?? Poor khushi.. but she is also our smart khushi loved the way she answer n handle it..
Arnav is right she is the first to ask for work before she officially start..
Impressive…
Indded she is going to be his favourite…
Wow loved khushi n her mother’s bond…
Central park helped them to meet n connect…
Coffee nice idea Arnav…
Omg did she really told she is his girlfriend…
Looking forward
linsiesamy
You can see from the beginning arnav… showing interest in khushi..
sweet phone text..
soharachowdhury
Enjoyed it thoroughly.
What a flirtatious sexy boss Khushi got! Is it just plain flirting or he is really interested to Khushi? Khushi definitely has a crush on him but she is successfully controlling her emotions.
Looking forward to see Khushi in Arnav’s family gathering.
gprs
WOW..simply superb..man he’s charming and knows how to affect her..
A perfect workaholic match for Arnav..the Restaurant scene is funny:)
looking forward for their ride to meet Anjali..
dprover
loving re-re-reading this story
yoga1237
She is going to be his favorite for sure………she is beauty with brains……..Amazing chapter…..
KBS
Is this Arnav is this simple and jolly or there is some twist
Jayeeta (tuli_jayee on IF)
Another beautiful chapter
sansid123
New York -New York -New York I can smell the damn city
Jigs~
Yup… New York indeed, a main character of the story. Hope that’s not a problem ๐
sansid123
I Love it -one of my four favourite cities in the world along with Paris London and Delhi- cant wait to be there again probably July aug
luvraj4ever
“Once I get in the apartment, I open it up and see a new MacBook Pro, a security card for the building, some files and a note from him.”
Oh damn his Christian genes๐๐๐๐๐๐
sarita_984
Arnav is totally testing the waters, what he told the barista was funny ๐ Poor Khushi, she’s left speechless time after time with his actions. If only Cupid Anjali knew that they met up during their run and then had coffee together, wonder what her reaction would be hehe…
yaminiscorpio
Loved the banter between Arnav and Khushi…
And looking forward to their journey towards Anjeli together
Onwards to the next chapter…..
saffron’s Ramblings
โค๏ธs……
inasaahil
Interesting update.. their text conversations were just awesome and I could feel that Arnav is full on in his element and the way he slyly slipped in the question “Do you find me attractive?” was a masterstroke. Bechari Khushi.. fell for it hook, line and sinker!! ๐
Also this update gave me an insight as to how dedicated Khushi is towards her work. Technically she has not started office yet but still the way she willingly offered her help to Arnav and compiled that presentation just goes on to show how passionate she is for her work. The interesting part about this was that she was expecting Arnav to get back to her after receiving the mail from her coz’ that’s what he had done for the past 2 days… but when he didn’t.. her disappointment was too obvious. So she expecting some or any kind of response from him.. and that too at such a short span of time speaks the connection that she instantly felt with him.
The chance meeting at the park and afterwards the coffee together just was a bonus for us!! Arnav’s interest towards Khushi is now too damn noticeable as when he is with her his entire concentration is on her and to a point that he feels irritated on getting attention from some other girl.
So all in all a super update and I am looking forward to their coming weekend together at Anjali’s place.
Lots Of Love..๐๐
ayushivishui
awesome Loved it
i think khushi should give a chance to this attraction…..she itself admits that she didn’t feel like this when she was with sameer
shalakapathare
It’s cute the way Khushi told Arnav about her feelings and the coffee scene was hilarious
shilpa1991
Loved it…superb..I hope khushi gave him a chance soon..coffee cafe seen was so funny…
themindmusesblog
What’s up with Khushi’s past???and this Sameer guy?? What happened to them??
Anyways, glad he’s out of the picture, otherwise how could our hero Mr. Raizada enter the scene??๐๐๐
The cafe scene was hilarious.. I was rofling all along..!!๐๐
fariha2
Im loving these double meaning sentences that he tells khushi.
saumyaarc
One of the best thing about this story for me is seeing khushi as a brainstormer..I mean she’s completely Fab in her work..I love this Khushi maybe a tad bit more than arnav๐
cutiepieash
Mind-blowing update
Arnav and Khushi’s text conversation was super duper funโบ
Arnav just need give some space to Khushi. For all the things or having double meaning conversation with her is something I always looking forward to it. It’s kinda fun to me๐๐
One thing I appreciate in this story of yours is Khushi’s love for her job,professtionally she is excellent,brilliant and smart,intelligent too!!!
That is thing I loved the mostโคโค
riya70
Awesome update
I am loving this Arnav so much
kayarose
Arnav is very much interested in khushi from the beginning and now khushi is falling too.
That girlfriend stunt was great.
vijusb
It was fun filled update. Loved their talk, text convo. Khushi started to work before her joining date. Spent almost 2 days without much break. Both are workaholic.
She was expecting him to send the reply but when he didnโt reply, she thought he might be with some women. Itโs more than attraction what she feels for him.
They again bump in park. I totally loved the way they behaved with each other . Acting like friends not employer and employee. Girlfriend part was really funny.Does he behave similarly with other employees ?
Thanks
ilfordian
Kuch kuch ho raha hai in dono ke bich. Loved this flirty ASR?Arnav.
twinklemj
lets take this coffee as an unofficial date..
pakpearlfauzia
Very entertaining chapter..
Khushi is trying hard to resist this greek god but he has no such intentions ..
I wanna know about Sameer n what happened exactly between Khushi n him ..
I wanna know what does Arnav feel about her EXACTLY..
linsiesamy
Flirting and teasing
anjalik11
ARNAV Singh Raizada is too Smart for his own good .
& Sharp too !
That round of rapid fire questions he’s throwing at her , & caughting her up , when he asked- “Do you find me attractive” ?
Ahhh ! This man & his wittiness ๐คญ
Leaving Khushi flabbergasted !
KHUSHI’s passion towards her work is admiring. It’s the Dedication & honesty with which we do our job , takes us towards the path of success. She do everything with a zeal. Just like the way you do everything Jigs di ๐ค With all your heart & Dedication โค๏ธ.
Khushi struggling to Read his illegible Writing…… brings down memories of the past , of IPKKND days . Remember That episode , when Khushi said – laad governer ki likhawat hai maano Keede makooron ki baarat ๐
I really love the coziness, the of Khushi’s apartment. There’s a sense of solace one feels , far away from everyone. A new place , where’s there’s no one looming over you , the past baggage, where you can be all yourself. Without giving a Care of feeling to other’s. Just be yourself โค๏ธ
We all need alone time , at a moment in our lives . It’s a peaceful feeling , & I crave for this feeling . I hope that day isn’t too far now , I want to feel that freedom , find my Peace of mind !
Khushi’s & our Morning made with Mr. Sexy Raizada bumping onto Miss. Surprised Gupta .
ARNAV one Lines are killing af ๐ฅ
Hayee , seedhe dil pe vaar ๐ก๏ธ
& This line when he said – ‘ ๐ ๐ฐ๐จ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ ๐ง๐๐ฏ๐๐ซ ๐ฅ๐๐ญ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ ๐๐๐ฅ๐ฅ ‘ ______a promise made without planning, it just came own its own straight from His heart & something says, he’s going to keep it up ~ ๐ป๐๐๐๐ โ๐๐ ๐
In Such a less period of time ,There’s developed a sense of Comfort between them. He understands her silence without her uttering a word.
That’s why it says – ๐๐ฐ๐ถ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ข๐ต๐ฆ๐ด ๐ข๐ณ๐ฆ๐ฏ’๐ต ๐ซ๐ถ๐ด๐ต ๐๐ฐ๐ท๐ฆ๐ณ๐ด____๐
Arnav is so right when he said- it’s good to take risks in lifey, you never know what you can gain ( I believe it firmly myself) !
Khushi let it happen , stop fighting your feelings & let it flow…… something beautiful is waiting to embrace you .
๐๐๐ ๐ฃ๐๐๐ง๐ ๐ค๐ฒ๐ ๐ก๐๐ข
๐๐ข๐ฅ ๐ค๐ ๐ข๐ซ๐ซ๐๐๐ ,
๐๐ก๐จ๐๐ ๐ฌ๐ ๐ค๐๐ฆ ๐ก๐๐ข
๐๐ก๐จ๐๐ ๐ฌ๐ ๐ณ๐ฒ๐๐๐๐
The whole Scene unfolded at the cafe โ was hilarious. Khushi’s mortified , shocked to know what ARNAV had said to the Barista…she is his girlfriend ๐
Ahh ! ASR is veryyyyy fast !
& Him grinning behind her ๐คญ
๐๐ฎ๐๐ก ๐๐๐ ๐ก๐๐ข ๐๐๐๐ค๐ข
๐๐ก๐๐ก๐๐ ๐ ๐ค๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ข๐ฅ
๐๐ข๐ฅ ๐ค๐จ ๐ฆ๐ข๐ฅ๐ข ๐ก๐๐ข ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ณ๐ข๐ฅ
๐๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ ๐ฃ๐๐๐ง๐ ๐ฌ๐ ……
anjalik11
Again WP is acting weirdly ๐ค
Eating my comment !
Jigs~
They are going into the spam folder, not sure why
anjalik11
Mujhe laga tha , comments on their own dropping onto the spam folder.
WP & uski maya ๐ฅด
Avidficreader
ASR and his Shatir Dimag are on a roll…leaving Khushi completely flabbergasted. And his illegible writing….reminded me of the Shaitaan and Sundari episode…going right ahead to the next chapter!
Noor Cheema
Ok again amazing story…..which i start just now and like LISTED…i just love this one also…..love the arnav here and also our loving khushi….
anjalik11
ARNAV Singh Raizada is too Smart for his own good .
& Sharp too !
That round of rapid fire questions he’s throwing at her , & caughting her up , when he asked- “Do you find me attractive” ?
Ahhh ! This man & his wittiness ๐คญ
Leaving Khushi flabbergasted !
KHUSHI’s passion towards her work is admiring. It’s the Dedication & honesty with which we do our job , takes us towards the path of success. She do everything with a zeal. Just like the way you do everything Jigs di ๐ค With all your heart & Dedication โค๏ธ.
Khushi struggling to Read his illegible Writing…… brings down memories of the past , of IPKKND days . Remember That episode , when Khushi said – laad governer ki likhawat hai maano Keede makooron ki baarat ๐
I really love the coziness, the of Khushi’s apartment. There’s a sense of solace one feels , far away from everyone. A new place , where’s there’s no one looming over you , the past baggage, where you can be all yourself. Without giving a Care of feeling to other’s. Just be yourself โค๏ธ
We all need alone time , at a moment in our lives . It’s a peaceful feeling , & I crave for this feeling . I hope that day isn’t too far now , I want to feel that freedom , find my Peace of mind !
Khushi’s & our Morning made with Mr. Sexy Raizada bumping onto Miss. Surprised Gupta .
ARNAV one Lines are killing af ๐ฅ
Hayee , seedhe dil pe vaar ๐ก๏ธ
& This line when he said – ‘ ๐ ๐ฐ๐จ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ ๐ง๐๐ฏ๐๐ซ ๐ฅ๐๐ญ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ ๐๐๐ฅ๐ฅ ‘ ______a promise made without planning, it just came own its own straight from His heart & something says, he’s going to keep it up ~ ๐ป๐๐๐๐ โ๐๐ ๐
In Such a less period of time ,There’s developed a sense of Comfort between them. He understands her silence without her uttering a word.
That’s why it says – ๐๐ฐ๐ถ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ข๐ต๐ฆ๐ด ๐ข๐ณ๐ฆ๐ฏ’๐ต ๐ซ๐ถ๐ด๐ต ๐๐ฐ๐ท๐ฆ๐ณ๐ด____๐
Arnav is so right when he said- it’s good to take risks in lifey, you never know what you can gain ( I believe it firmly myself) !
Khushi let it happen , stop fighting your feelings & let it flow…… something beautiful is waiting to embrace you .
๐๐๐ ๐ฃ๐๐๐ง๐ ๐ค๐ฒ๐ ๐ก๐๐ข
๐๐ข๐ฅ ๐ค๐ ๐ข๐ซ๐ซ๐๐๐ ,
๐๐ก๐จ๐๐ ๐ฌ๐ ๐ค๐๐ฆ ๐ก๐๐ข
๐๐ก๐จ๐๐ ๐ฌ๐ ๐ณ๐ฒ๐๐๐๐
The whole Scene unfolded at the cafe โ was hilarious. Khushi’s mortified , shocked to know what ARNAV had said to the Barista…she is his girlfriend ๐
Ahh ! ASR is veryyyyy fast !
& Him grinning behind her ๐คญ
๐๐ฎ๐๐ก ๐๐๐ ๐ก๐๐ข ๐๐๐๐ค๐ข
๐๐ก๐๐ก๐๐ ๐ ๐ค๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ข๐ฅ
๐๐ข๐ฅ ๐ค๐จ ๐ฆ๐ข๐ฅ๐ข ๐ก๐๐ข ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ณ๐ข๐ฅ
๐๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ ๐ฃ๐๐๐ง๐ ๐ฌ๐ ………
bkumar27
Getting interesting…he clearly knows he is affecting her…& totally enjoying it too..๐๐
SA Arshi
I love ur arnavs!! In all the stories!!! I want a new good start like khushi !!!!
shamz94
Jigsssss I canโt read this when I click on the link itโs not working ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ญ๐ญ๐ญ
kajukbs
aise ladke real life mein kyun nahi milte bro?