Chapter 14
The next morning I wake up to find myself alone in bed, with all the drapes closed making the room dark. I glance over at the clock on the nightstand to see it’s almost seven o’clock.
We went to bed late last night, so it surprises me that he is not here. Beside me, sleeping. It’s unlike him to get out of bed without waking me. I glance at my phone to see if there’s a message, but find nothing.
Does he regret what he said last night?
Is that why he’s not here?
Panic strikes me, and I quickly get out of bed to check if he is in the bathroom, but find it empty. Even the walk in closet door has been left open with the lights off.
I slowly make my way outside to see him nowhere around. Not in the main open living area or the terrace.
Maybe he went into the office early, but then he has never left without saying bye.
You could just call him.
As I make my way inside from the terrace to call him, I realize I haven’t checked his study. When I approach the door I smile hearing his voice, finally having located him.
I lightly knock on the door, before opening it slowly. He turns to smile at me, sitting at his desk, urging me to come in waving his hand.
I walk into his modern, sleek space with all the amenities needed to make this a comfortable home office. The room is bright and open with the morning sun lighting it. As I look out through the floor to ceiling windows, the Hudson River glimmers, warming my heart.
His voice comes out rather abrupt, as he tries to wrap up his call.
“Send me the corrected proposal in the next few hours. And, work with Lavanya on the meeting details. Just so I am clear, this needs to be resolved today. I don’t want any delays, understood?”
Does he always have to be direct and curt with people?
I dread the day when he speaks to me that way. Let’s hope I remain on his good side for a long time to come.
“Good morning, my sweetheart”
“Good morning, baby.” I smile walking over to his desk, and sit down on his lap wrapping my arms around his neck.
“Do you know how worried I got when I didn’t see you in bed? At least you should have woken me.”
“Why would I do that, when you were peacefully sleeping? You hardly slept last night. Plus I was right here. Wait, did you think I ran away from my own house?” He chuckles.
“Woh… um… I… just thought maybe after last night you might not have meant…”
“Khushi, I meant everything I said. You’re not getting rid of me that easily.” He leans down, placing a gentle kiss on my lips.
“Would you like to Skype your parents from here?”
“It’s okay, I will do it once I get in the office. I have a nine o’clock meeting so will speak with them before I start my day. Shall I make us some breakfast?”
“Nah, breakfast can wait… think, I want some meetha first.”
“What?! Now?”
He nods, curving his lip in a sinful smile.
“Well then, Mr. Raizada, you will have to catch me first.” I get up, and run quickly out of the study towards the bedroom, with him running after me.
“Run all you want, Ms. Gupta, but I always get what I want. And, I know you will enjoy what I have in mind.”
He follows me into the bedroom, closing the door behind him. I climb into bed, and whisper into his ears as he joins me.
“I bet I will.”
A couple of hours later, the first thing I do when I get to the office is Skype my parents. After speaking to them it seems things are better, though my mother is still feeling anxious that something is not right. I try to convince her otherwise, and may have succeeded. Mostly because she gets a glimpse of me through Skype, not to mention a promise of a daily check in until she can shake this feeling off.
She keeps reiterating that a mother’s intuition is never wrong, which I think she is overthinking things as she misses me.
Arnav had asked me to text him to inform him how they are after I speak with them. So, I quickly send him a text that all is well with the Gupta clan.
After that I get engrossed with work. This week is going to be extremely busy for the both of us with the acquisitions for the startups going through the final process before AR takes over. Also, there are a few new marketing campaigns that are being rolled out for a couple of existing companies that I have spearheaded. As I look at my schedule it seems I have back to back meetings almost every day this week.
How am I going to get through this week without pulling out my hair?
As the week goes by, my schedule is all the over place, and the work keeps piling up with no end in sight. And, on top of that, Aakash has the flu, so he is out of commission which means my workload doubles.
For the first time in my career, I am having a difficult time keeping up. Which in itself is unusual, since I should be used to the workload. It’s nothing that I can’t handle.
This has also meant I haven’t seen Arnav for the past few days outside of work. Neither of us have had time to think about our relationship or miss each other with the amount of work we have.
“Excuse me, Khushi…”
I am broken out of my thoughts, hearing Lavanya’s voice at my door.
“Hi Lavanya, please come in. Did you need anything?”
“No, I was just passing by, and noticed you here. Aren’t you supposed to be in the meeting with Finance that ASR requested on Monday?”
“Yes, but that’s not till later this afternoon.” I glance over at my calendar for confirmation, but it appears that the meeting is taking place now.
How could that be?
When I looked at my calendar this morning, this particular meeting was later in the day.
“No, the meeting is now, it started fifteen minutes ago. You should hurry… ASR specifically wanted you there since you had the revised figures for next quarter.”
“Oh shit… thank you Lavanya!”
I grab my things and quickly make my way to the Executive conference room. As I approach the room, Arnav’s piercing gaze is fixed on me through the glass wall.
And, he does not look pleased.
I take a deep breath before walking inside, then take the empty seat across him.
“Hey Khushi, we were wondering where you were. I am just walking ASR through the numbers you sent over yesterday.”
“Sorry for being late Michael, please continue.”
The head of finance and his team continue with their presentation. Thankfully, I had sent them the information to be incorporated into the presentation yesterday, otherwise the outcome would be different right now.
I look over at Arnav or should I say ASR, to gauge his reaction, but it’s blank, not looking in my direction.
A few minutes later, a text appears on the screen of my phone. I sigh, as the storm makes its way at me in full force.
“You’re LATE!”
“I am sorry, but there was a mix up…”
“You need to do a better job staying on top of your schedule. This is the third meeting you are walking in late in the past couple of weeks.”
How do I even reply to this when he is right?
“Agreed.”
He shakes his head, looking at my response before focusing back on the presentation.
I can’t help but feel overwhelmed at the moment, knowing he is disappointed. The one thing he does not tolerate is being late, and I know if it was anyone else he would have put them in their place in front of everyone when they walked in the meeting.
An hour later when the meeting wraps up, I gather my things to make my way out of the conference room, but stop when Arnav calls out for me.
“Ms. Gupta, I need you to stay back for a few minutes.”
I look back at him, and see he is wrapping up his conversation with Michael.
“Khushi, thanks for your input, and working with me this week. That really helped shape up the impactful presentation today. It looks like this will be AR’s most profitable quarter all because of the work you have implemented.”
A small smile makes its way on my lips at the accomplishment for AR and Arnav. I know he must have been thrilled with this news.
“Sure, but we still have a long way to go to meet the long term goal. We did have a great quarter though, all thanks to the team.
A couple of minutes later, Arnav and I are alone in the room. The nerves take over with the tension filtering in the air.
“What’s going on with you?” His tone is low, but stern.
“I don’t know what happened… I was under the assumption this meeting was later in the day. Which, I know is not an excuse for me not being here on time.”
“Khushi, this isn’t the first time… you were late for two meetings last week. How is it that you can handle your excessive workload, work with everyone in the office, but you can’t keep track of your schedule? You walking in late today gets overshadowed from the work you did for this meeting. If this continues, you will lose credibility with the people in this office. And, I refuse to allow that to happen.”
“I didn’t do this intentionally. Don’t you think I realize this doesn’t look good? There is just a lot going on right now…”
“Stop making excuses, and figure out what is happening around you. Am I clear?”
I cringe at his tone, and look away to compose myself before answering him.
“Yes, very clear.”
“Good. I will see you later.” He says softly getting up, and walks out of the room, leaving me behind without a second glance.
I hold back my mixed emotions, conscious that I am surrounded by glass walls, visible to everyone outside this room.
What the hell is happening to me?
*****
“Are you ready?”
The familiar voice at my office door at the end of the work day, causes me to close my eyes.
Since we haven’t been able to spend any time together the last few days, we made plans to go out to dinner tonight. But after what happened earlier today in the conference room, I am not in a mood to go out.
“There are still a few things that I need to take care of, so I am going to be late. Why don’t you go home, and I will see you tomorrow?”
“Okay. Guess, I will see you tomorrow Ms. Gupta.”
I look up from my screen hearing his unexpected response to find him leaning against the doorframe with a faint smile.
“Good night.” He says, slowly turning around to leave.
Did he just leave?
I get up from my seat in disbelief that he actually left, and debate whether I should call him back. But I stop myself, and walk over to the window.
This was not what I expected him to do. He always pushes us to have a conversation when there’s a problem between us. Making it a point that we communicate with each other, when I tend to hold back from him.
What happened today?
Isn’t this what I wanted? It was me that told him to leave, and that too, without even looking at him. I chose to ignore him, then why am I expecting more? A bit hypocritical, I would say on my part.
There is no question that I disappointed him today. But doesn’t he want to know what happened?
This was bound to happen when you are in a relationship in the place of business. And that too, with your boss.
How is he able to separate the professional and personal part in our relationship?
Why do I struggle with it?
What am I going to do if this continues?
Hearing my phone vibrate with an incoming message, I turn to walk back to my desk. And immediately smile, reading the text.
“Hi Sweetheart. This is your boyfriend. What are you doing?”
As I look at my phone, I realize I need to figure out a way to talk to him. It won’t be easy, but I need to do this.
“Hi my boyfriend! I am still at work 🙁 … but I should be done soon.”
“Why the sad face? Is your boss being a jerk to you? Tell me, and I can take care of it…”
I can’t help but smile knowing he is doing this for me, to make me feel better…
“It was a bad day, and my boss had every right to be a jerk.”
“How about we go out for dinner, and you can tell me about your day? And if you are up to it, we can talk about what a jerk your boss is ;). Please say yes…”
“Well… he’s not a jerk all time, only sometimes. And, yes to dinner 🙂 Give me five minutes to get my things. Where are you?”
“Right here.”
Startled to hear his husky voice, the phone slips out of my hand landing directly on the floor.
“Oh my God, Arnav, you scared me!” I yell, shaking my head.
“By no means was that my intention…”
He walks towards my desk, and picks up my phone before handing it to me, then pulls me into his arms. I close my eyes at feeling content in his arms, even after what happened earlier.
“Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you. Tum theek ho?” He asks pulling away slowly, his gaze fixed on mine as he caresses my face. In response, I simply smile, before turning away to gather my things.
“Where would you like to go for dinner?” He inquires, while walking out of my office.
“Actually, I am not very hungry, so whatever you’re in the mood for is fine with me.”
He shakes his head, and then stares at me as we approach the elevator.
“If that’s the case, we can go to your place or mine, and order in. You and I both know that we need to talk. It’s probably best we stay in tonight. Where do you prefer we go?”
I take a deep breath, knowing he is right.
“My place, if that’s okay with you?”
He nods, and we head to my apartment in complete silence in his car.
Once we get there, I freshen up and change out of my work clothes while he orders dinner. I decide to take a quick shower to shake off the tiredness and put on a pair of night shorts with t-shirt.
As I make my way to the living room, tying my wet hair into a messy bun, he stares at me for a moment, before he speaks.
“I ordered Patsy’s. Pasta and salad. It should be here in twenty minutes.”
He walks closer to me, raising his hand to my neck, and wipes the moisture away with his thumb. I close my eyes as this slightest touch sends shivers down my spine.
How I have missed his touch this week.
“I am going to freshen up.” He says, abruptly pulling away.
I understand why he does so. Who can blame him, when I have barely said anything to him. It’s time to change the tense atmosphere that I have created between us. We will have our talk, but for now I want to spend time with my Arnav.
“Sure. If you want to take a shower, your towel is in the bathroom. Oh, I actually moved your night clothes in the big dresser, top left drawer. And, your t-shirts are hung up in the closet. I will set-up the table.”
As I turn to make my way to the kitchen, he grasps my hand to stop me. I turn around to see him staring at me confused.
“You want me to stay tonight?”
I can’t help but laugh at our situation, which brings a smile to his face as he shakes his head.
“Why wouldn’t I want my boyfriend to stay tonight? Now go, before the food gets here.” I say, pushing him away.
“Paagal…” He mumbles, walking away to the bathroom.
After the food arrives, I decide to check on him to see what’s taking him so long.
“Arnav, food is here…” I announce, walking inside the bedroom to stop at the door, as he looks up at me sitting at the edge of the bed.
“When did you do this?”
“Earlier this week. I ordered the prints online, and put it in the frame. I love this picture of us on the carousel. You look so happy saying ‘meetha’. I also got one for you too, figured you can put it at your place.” Sitting down next to him, I wrap my arm inside his.
“If you would allow it, I would put this picture on my desk in the office. But for now, bedroom it is. Thank you, I love it, and you.”
He leans down bringing his lips to mine for a gentle kiss, which turns passionate instantly.
Hearing my stomach rumble, I feel a smirk on his lips, as we slowly pull away.
“Looks like someone is hungry… let’s eat, then we need to talk about today.”
*****
An hour later, we sit down in the living room for the much needed conversation. But there’s silence, until he breaks it.
“Khushi, I know you’re upset with me about what I said in the conference room. But do you understand why?”
“Yes, but it still hurts. This is exactly what I was referring about- separating the two. It’s obvious you can leave our personal relationship at the door, but I can’t seem to do that at times. All I kept thinking about was letting you down. Do you know how vulnerable I felt when you walked out of the room? I know what had happened is wrong, but you didn’t even give me a chance to explain.”
“I did what I did because this is about you, about your credibility. If this continues, I won’t be able to sit back and watch people accuse you of being incompetent. Because that’s not the person I hired. My Khushi has become my right hand in every sense. You have accomplished so much in the last couple of months, and I can’t allow your hard work to go to waste for being late to meetings. This is not you. So, actually I am not leaving our personal relationship at the door. If I did, you and I both know the outcome would have been different when you walked in the conference room today. I need to fix this.” He stands up in frustration, running his hand through his hair.
“I have figured out what’s going on, but you are not going to fix this. I need to fix this. Please, let me handle this myself.”
He looks at me incredulously as I approach him.
I prepare myself for the anger that is simmering in his gaze. I can’t back down, this is about me, and I need to take control of the situation.
“There is no way I am letting you deal with this on your own. You are being set-up. Can you not see that?!”
“Of course, I see it! I have known since last week. Just give me some time to take care of this. Please Arnav, let me do this on my own.”
“Why didn’t you tell me if you knew?”
“I wasn’t sure at first, and that’s why I didn’t say anything. But today it was apparent. I know what I need to do, and you need to let me take care of my problems. What are people going to think if you help me with this? It’s going to look like you are giving me preferential treatment, when you have never done that for anyone…”
“I don’t care what people think.”
I glare at him for being irrational, and unable to hold back, I answer back firmly.
“Well, I do. So you need to back off.”
He stares at me for a few minutes, as I refuse to back down. He takes a deep breath, and turns away.
“If this is what you want… fine. Just to be clear, I don’t agree. I going to bed now, tomorrow is going to be long day, and I am tired. Goodnight.”
He comes close, and places a kiss on my forehead, before walking towards the bedroom.
I am sorry Arnav, but I have to do this, I need to fix this mess, and make you proud.
*****
The next morning once I get to the office, the only thing at the forefront of my mind is to get to the bottom of what has transpired with the deliberate mix-up with my schedule.
After the scheduling issues last week, I had found it odd. Especially since one of the meetings was with Arnav, our one on one. Being impatient to see me, he had texted me after five minutes to hurry up. I had made up an excuse with him saying I was stuck on a conference call to justify being late. Which wasn’t entirely a lie, since I had still been on a call.
I have an intuition who is behind this, but I need evidence before I can take the appropriate measures.
This is why I had not mentioned it to him last night. He would have fired the person based on an assumption, which could have led to a lawsuit. And AR cannot afford that risk right now when they’re expanding in the States. My job is to build a brand for AR in the marketplace, and I cannot allow it to be tarnished because of me. Both, professionally and personally.
The first thing I do is look at my schedule from last week, what’s on my computer versus what is on the print out that I receive daily in the morning. And sure enough, I spot the misalignment between the two.
Hearing a knock at my door, I put the papers away.
“Come in.”
“Good morning, Khushi. I hope I am not disturbing you. Do you have a few minutes?”
“Sure Lavanya, please come in.”
She does a quick glance outside, before coming in, and closed the door behind.
“I hope you don’t think I am interfering, but after what happened yesterday… I looked into a few things, and this doesn’t look like a mix up.” Lavanya hands me the printouts of Arnav, Aakash, and my calendar highlighting the discrepancies.
“Also, Khushi, it looks like this person might be accessing your email as well. I was accepting a meeting invite that came on your behalf for ASR regarding the upcoming expansion, but then I looked up to see you walking out of his office, which was strange. I didn’t think anything of it, but after yesterday, I don’t know…”
The latest news leaves me stunned, that someone was physically accessing my computer. After taking a look at the printout of the email, then searching for it in my sent items, there is no trace of it. The email has been deleted.
“This happened when I went to get Mr. Raizada’s signature on a press release. I remember leaving my laptop open here in a rush, for thirty minutes. Shit!”
“You mean Shitall?”
I raise my eyebrow, and then it hits me what she meant. I can’t help but smile at how appropriate that sounds at the moment.
“Yes, it has to be her. But there is no solid evidence. There are no cameras in my office that would capture that she accessed my email. Even the meetings, they were just moved around, but were put back in the original time slots. It could be pinned as a mix up.”
“But she can’t get away with this. I really like you Khushi, everyone in this office does. No one would want to see you get framed. Why don’t you talk to ASR or Aakash? Maybe they have a solution.”
“I really appreciate you looking out for me. It means so much to me that I have friend here that I can trust. I will talk to Aakash next week, when he is back in the office. As for Mr. Raizada, I will wait till I have proof, and I know exactly what to do. Will you help me?”
“Whatever you need, just let me know what I need to do.”
“Well, let’s get ready to take her down!”
Later that day, I meet with Aman, and explain the situation to him. He suggests some technology solutions that will track the meeting movements which Lavanya will monitor, along with cloning my email to take periodic snapshots. I also ask him to install a wireless camera behind my desk to capture what happens when I am not in my office.
Since it’s Friday, we decide to execute our plan early next week. Also, it will give Aman time to install the camera in my office over the weekend when she is not here to notice.
Now the hard part will be keeping this from Arnav during the weekend.
Later, once everyone has left the office, I decide to go see what our plans are for the weekend. I know he is upset from last night, and has barely talked to me today. But for the weekend I would prefer to put this aside and not think about it.
“Hi baby…” I say walking inside his office, closing the door behind me.
He raises a questioning eyebrow, as I make my way towards his desk.
“You’re in a good mood.”
“Well, that all depends on what we are doing this weekend.” Leaning against his desk, I smile down at him.
“Then you are not going to like this… it doesn’t look like we will be able to do anything together this weekend. NK is here in the city spending the weekend at my place. And, I think Aakash is coming as well to catch up on work. Sorry…”
There’s something about his tone that makes me wonder if he is doing this to avoid me. But I shake that off, since it works out for me.
“It’s fine I understand. After all I can’t be selfish, and ask you to spend every weekend with me. I am going to head home now. Have a good time this weekend.”
I lean down, and place a gentle kiss on his lips, then turn to walk away. But he grabs my hand, getting up from the chair as he pulls me closer to him.
“Why can’t you be selfish for once? Damn it, I want you to selfish. Over me, over us. I am giving you the right to ask for whatever you want from me, but you are still running from this relationship.”
“How can you say that? It seems like you are confusing work and our relationship at this moment. We could probably use the time to ourselves this weekend.”
“Maybe we can. Have a nice weekend, Ms. Gupta.” He sighs, turning away to face his monitor to continue working.
Is he that upset that he can’t even speak to me properly?
How can I be selfish when I can’t even say I love you? What right do I really have over him?
Could he be right that I am still running from our relationship?
These are the questions that haunt me the entire weekend. But being away from him gives me time to reflect on our relationship, and, one thing becomes apparent. Despite our differences, we miss each other.
Since we’ve been together practically every single day since I started working at AR, it’s lonely without the other. One of us has called or texted the other this weekend to check in, proving that our relationship is strong.
He has even said I love you on several occasions prior to hanging up the phone. But, I know he is disheartened by the fact that I will not allow him to help me.
Yet again, I feel that I have disappointed him, when all he has ever done in this relationship is given me everything.
So doesn’t he deserve that back?
I want to give him everything. I want a forever. And most of all, I want to be able to tell him that I love him.
But first, I need to handle my professional issue.
Monday morning I am on a mission, meeting with Lavanya, and Aman to put our plan in motion. And, if all goes well, we can put this behind us by Wednesday.
During the next few days, Lavanya and I monitor her every movement. It seems she has moved some meetings on my calendar, which I catch and log. I have left my office unattended, leaving my laptop open to see what she does. We finally catch her red handed on camera. She has sent Arnav an incorrect presentation from my email, changing out my recommendations and figures.
As I am walking back to my office after delivering the evidence to HR so we can take action against Sheetal, Arnav calls out for me from down the hall. And he is beyond furious.
“Ms. Gupta, in my office. Now!”
As I look around making my way to his office, I look over at Sheetal who has a smirk on her face.
Little does she know, what is about to happen to her once I am done with him.
After I walk inside his office, he slams the door shut, and I flinch hearing what comes out of his mouth.
“What the fuck is going on, Khushi?!”
In that instant, the anger inside of me boils over. I have pushed aside his distant attitude this week at work, but now he is just being ridiculous.
“You know what, you need to calm down! I don’t appreciate you speaking with me this way at all.”
“I have had enough of this shit. There’s the meetings, and now I get a presentation which is clearly not something you put together. I need answers, and I need them NOW…”
“There is no point talking to you right now.”
The rage built up between us right now needs to be directed at someone outside of this office. And I need to go handle that before dealing with him.
I close my eyes, and take a deep breath before I continue.
“I have already told you, I am handling this and it will be resolved soon. As a matter of fact before this hour is up. So if you will excuse me, ASR… I have something important to take care of.”
Keeping a strong front, I turn around, and start walking towards the door. As I am about to open it, I hear something crashing loudly onto the floor, but I leave his office without glancing back.
When I walk out, I have no time to think about him, since Lavanya approaches me.
“Everything is set, once you call Sheetal into your office, Aman will shut off her ID. And, we will have security outside your door, so they can walk her out. Did you tell ASR?”
“No I didn’t, it’s best HR reaches out to him with the specifics. For now, I need to go handle her.”
“All the best, Khushi!” She smiles at me, and pulls me into an embrace which warms my heart.
“Thank you so much… if it weren’t for you and Aman, I could not have pulled this off.”
“There are no thanks in friendship… now, go get her. It looks like she is walking back to her desk.”
“Sheetal, can I see you in my office?”
“Can’t this wait till tomorrow? It’s almost five o’clock, and I need to leave on-time today.”
“This won’t take long. In my office. Now!”
Without waiting for a response I walk to my office, and stand by the door. After she walks in I close the door behind her, and then take a seat at my desk.
“Sit down…”
“I am not sure what is so important that could not wait till tomorrow. Just because ASR yelled at you, doesn’t mean you can treat me this way.”
There is no hiding the incredulity on my face at the audacity of this woman to speak to me this way.
“Oh, you see, that’s where you are mistaken. I have every right to have you in here for the crap you’ve been pulling for the last couple of weeks. Tell me, do I look that stupid? Did you really think that I wouldn’t catch on? Well, I have news for you. I know exactly what you have been doing.”
“What do you, um… mean? Just because you have had issues, doesn’t mean you can blame it on me, and ASR is going to believe you. I haven’t done anything.”
“It’s not a question about him believing you or me, since I have proof. You have been manipulating my calendar, and going into my email, for which, by the way, I can take legal actions against you.”
“There is no proof, you have nothing- I am going to talk to HR and tell them that you are harassing me.” She stands up, and pushes her chair back.
“Leaving so soon? Don’t you want to see the proof I have? I suggest you sit right back down.” I stand up, and hand her the folder with the information I have gathered.
Based on her expression, I know I have hit the target, and can’t help but smile, crossing my arms across my chest.
“Oh, and one more thing, you see that?” I point at the bookshelf behind my desk.
“That’s a camera, which has recorded you accessing my laptop and sending out emails. You might have deleted the email, but we have it on the video. Here is a copy of it, feel free to view it over and over again. It will keep you entertained and remind you how you got fired.”
“Um… I… um… don’t know what you are talking about…” Her voice cracks, but she tries to mask it by looking away.
“You know exactly what I am referring to. What I don’t understand is why would you do this? There was no need for this, especially since I have been nothing but supportive.”
“You want to know why? Because I don’t like you. You came here, taking over this place, and everyone. All I hear is Khushi this or Khushi that, it’s rather irritating. Even ASR gives you way too much importance, and for what reason… I don’t know. I don’t get it. But I had had enough, and wanted you out.”
“Well guess what Sheetal, it’s you who is going out. You are fired!”
“You can’t do that!”
“Oh yes I can, and I just did. Here is your termination letter. Your personal belongings will be mailed to your home. And I would like to give you some advice, if you have an issue with your employer, instead of framing them, either talk to them or get a new job. Consider yourself lucky that I am not taking legal actions against you. Best of luck. Now, get the hell out of my office!” I walk over to the door to let security escort her out.
Once she leaves, Aman and Lavanya come in to make sure everything is okay.
“Thank you both, I wouldn’t have been able to do this without you. I owe you both a treat for your help.”
“There is no need to thank us, but you can treat us to lunch tomorrow.”
“Aman, all you think about is food. We don’t need a treat either, Khushi. It’s good she is out before doing some serious damage.”
“I agree, it’s good she is no longer here… but lunch is on me tomorrow. Though it’s nothing compared to what you both have done for me. Now, let’s go home. I want to put this day behind me.”
An hour later, when I am leaving the office, I sigh, glancing at his closed door.
By now, he should know what transpired since HR was going to give him a full report.
I hope I have proven to him that I am more than capable of handling things on my own when it’s work related.
In a way, this was a test of our relationship. No matter what we say about separating the two, it’s not easy. Our personal feelings will always get in the way, which is natural since we care for one another. It would be unnatural, if we didn’t let our feelings come into play to support or protect the other.
But we need to do a better job handling and controlling our emotions.
What happened between us today cannot happen again. He needs to trust me.
Walking into an empty apartment, I feel overwhelmed with the loneliness that I have felt this past week. I miss my home, my parents, and most of all I miss my Arnav.
Taking a deep breath, I try to suppress the tears that threaten to fall. But I am so emotionally drained that I can’t push them back as they break free, and run down my face.
Feeling exhaustion taking over, I lie down on the sofa, and close my eyes in an attempt to get rid of the dull ache inside my heart.
My eyes open later, hearing the doorbell. I look around noticing it’s dark, and that I’m still in my work clothes.
How long have I been asleep?
The throbbing pain in my head makes it feel heavy, and I want to curse the person at my door for waking me up.
Hearing the bell again, I grumble walking over to open the door.
It’s Arnav, standing with his head tilted, holding a beautiful bouquet of exotic calla lilies in his hand.
“Hi…” He whispers holding out the lilies towards me.
But something stops me from running into his arms, or even accepting the flowers.
All I want to do is snap at him for the past week, for today, and now, for waking me up.
“Is there something I can help you with…ASR? It is after business hours, though…”
“Actually there is, Ms. Gupta. And, you’re the only one who can do it…”
Thank you for your patience, and reading. Hoping to update the next chapter sooner than later.
176 Comments
~Ruchi~
<3
Yesss! Good riddance to Sheetal!
And I’m glad that it was Khushi who did the firing. As she said, it was something she needed to do herself. For her own self respect. After all, it’s not only Arnav who has a shaatir dimaag 😉
It was cute to see Khushi being contrary when she bade Arnav good night and he actually walked away. “Did he just leave?” But he knows her so well. He was so not going away. Especially later, when she asked him to stay over in such a roundabout way. I loved how he gives her the choice of her place or his. It’s these subtle things that shout care more than anything.
I think it was important that Khushi had that time to introspect about their relationship. She needs to accept him fully if they are to move forward in a positive manner. He may know that she loves him, but he is also aware of the lingering doubts she still has about the practicality of their relationship.
For you 😘
Jigs~
My favorite!!!! Muahhhhh
nzmonica
😊
nzmonica
Arnav is looking out for his sweetheart and doesn’t want her credibility at work to suffer but in being her lover he overlooks the fact that she is a strong resourceful executive who can handle herself.
Who can deny that keeping personal and professional separate is easy – on the contrary it’s near impossible.
They will both need to find and maintain that balance.
Their moment at the beginning of the chapter was endearing. It brought to mind some of my precious memories – for that more than anything, thanks Jigs.
PS – I am so touched and honoured and overwhelmed by you posting the update later than your normal time just for me.
Love you.
Jigs~
And you a sweetheart! Muahhhh
Anitha
Wow so many stalking the post 😂..now go back to reading 😉
Anitha
Shitall 😂
I know you mentioned this before but 2 different stories with two variations in characters and moods and challenges…you pull it so beautifully..can’t say effortlessly as I know how much effort it takes even to write a comment for some one who is a non writer 🙄 but love your style, so easy to flow with it.
Now to the story-
I am so love these 2..of course the sweetheart Arnav, who leaves no stone unturned to ensure khushi is his taken care and protected like she should be from her man…muah for that 😉
Now I have so much more respect for women who are like Khushi who wants to ensure she fights her own battles and she manages efficiently not only handling her work but the issues that can crop up with jealousy. I love such strong women. I am so glad she has good people like aman and lavanya to support her. I know how cruel corporate world is especially they can be more bitchy on strong and good women who are there to take charge and I like how you are portraying that and making that mark for other fellow women 👌🏼
Arnav is right, he wants her to realize the love and relationship has already moved ahead and I hope she acknowledges that soon for her and his sake…although I feel he has so much patience when it comes to her acceptance. I wonder how he is so impatient when it comes to any issues with work and opposite when it comes to his love or personal life..I guess that’s the most important thing in life..
I love he is back at her apartment with flowers (the romantic side of me says awww) and your words tells he is so proud of her for handling it 😉
Loved every bit of it..this is one story that strings happy cords in me..see the effect, I write history 😂
On side note..I may be slow responding or accessing next 2-3 weeks with vacation and travel..so please don’t kick me if I am slow..my heart would break 😬
Anitha
Pardon my mistakes..I hate it does not have edit feature..I swallow half the words I type 😛
Jigs~
I relate as AC has made me want to bang my head often when I can’t go back and edit!
Anitha
Here is an article I found..don’t know if you want to try..
http://www.wpbeginner.com/plugins/allow-users-edit-comments-wordpress/
Jigs~
Plug-ins only work on self hosted sites like Temptation and Curious Musings, the wordpress.com that I use for TT and Stripped does not have much flexibility. But I use those since readers were having issues with my self-hosted sites…. can’t win…
swetharajulapati
Wow.. its emotionally drained from both arnav and khushi side… hope they sort out..
💕Anjali💕
Me 🙋 ❤
monalisaa1
Am glad truth about sheetal is out. See Khushi’s mum was right something bad was happening to her daughter. Though she underestimated her Khushi. Beautiful update
anukap9
Meeee😍
anukap9
JIG’s, thanks for giving my Monday morning a lovely start. You know, reading stripped again is like meeting a friend after a long gap and reminiscing about the old days and sharing wonderful memories of a journey taken together. Thank you. Love and hugs
rohinid84
Amazing update :))
Roshini IF
inasaahil
Loved the update..
So many ups and downs in their personal and professional lives both and I seem to understand both their view points!!
Khushi is right when she states that she can take care of her things and handle things at professional end on her own. If they really don’t want to mix their personal and professional relationship then Arnav really needs to trust Khushi that she can handle whatever it is. But somewhere I feel, he does as well. He trusts Khushi and whatever issues he had with the entire debacle was Khushi losing her credibility in front of her team and the other employees… which Arnav didn’t want her to!! So he is also right.. And that is kind of an impasse that we have arrived at…
It is so sweet of them to think about the other and do things. Their bond is real special and I love the way the nurturing is shown!!
Waiting to see what happens between ASR and Ms. Gupta now!! 😉
Lots Of Love… 🙂 🙂
anamika
Good move khushi… Its ok for asr to feel like helping her n its fairenuf that khushi wanted to do things on her own…
Lets see how they will work to keep balance between personal n professional relationship
Hemalatha
I was waiting for this particular chapter. Khushi bold. Sheetal just plain mean. Amanda and Lavanya helping Khushi is the icing on the cake. Loved it.
Hemalatha
Sorry, meant Aman. 😁
simi82sikha
Good that Sheetal z out…hope arnav n khusi sort out their differences soon…lovley update 👌👌👌
muskaansobti4
Full dhamakedar update with alot of emotions where they both try to separate their professional and personal life, understanding how to tackle it, wat d fuck sheetal was dng it was in a good way khushi took matters to her hand and terminated her whereas arnav actually was worried for her.loved d way where arnav sd i want u to be selfish for us.
And d mesg talks between arshi ws soo cuteee😄😊😘
Good work jigs👏
arshi2503
One of my favourite chapter. I was waiting Khushi to manage every thing to send Sheetal out.So she proved it to Arnav that she also could deal personal and professional issues separately.This incident makes them more close
Jigs ,you are excelled in narrating how corporate offices works.Finally that ‘Hi!’ from
Arnav with Lillies! Haye! mar dala, and loved
Khushi’s snapping at him. I am not getting enough of it. Thank you for sharing such a beautiful story.
nccrwrt
ASR loses control too finally :). It is difficult to keep personal and professional life separate, though they both tried. Eagerly waiting for the next chapter,
swapnat1963
love it so much Jigs, eagerly waiting for next, I love this strong Khushi and even stronger Arnav muah love them a lot.
Swapna
desaimamta
Hello jigs
Great update, a rollercoaster week for both of them.
Khushi handled things very nicely, both personally and professionally
Definitely Arnav would be proud of her, and khushi showed Arnav his place as well, Good job there, he needs to have patience and trust.
Only regret is that, khushi would have let ASR to take care of sheetal, after she exposed sheetal’s deeds, that would have been fun.
Loved the flow of events, already waiting for next chapter, to see how Arnav will handle this angry khushi.
Thank u so very much, thank u
nik1310
While night be striving hard to keep the personal and professional part of tgeirs separate, it is not gonna be easy. That is unless she acknowledges to herself and Arnav what he truly means to her. Arnav is right khushi seems to be holding back and that’s taking its toll.
This update very practical, highlights inherent challenges for guys who are connected professionally & personally like our couple here.
kaur94
Loved the update
anamika34
❤❤❤ Sheetal👹. arnav and khushi 😍😍😍
hailstorm464
Loved the way khushi fought for herself.
Waiting for more.
mamtapuri2000
Loved it! I really like he independent Khushi. I am waiting to see what Garima is on about….
Great update!
sweetyperu
Awesome updatee…!!
Khushi is incredible when it comes to fighting for her own..!
she knows what to do and how to do..!
When it comes to work she is the best. !!
I hope she works on her feelings soon… she feels deeply about Arnav too.. and i think itz high time she expresses it too….
With all that happend with her this week she is saddened and i am glad Arnav is there with her…
She looks upset.. hope he cheers her up with lots of meetha😀😀
Its so good to see them being so much concerned about one other…
The way they are growing in this relationship is beautifully shown Di…
Loved it.. !
plz continue soon😘😘
tina1234if
Awesome part she’s really shital. Loved how khushi puts her in place. Can’t wait for arhi making up
>
xyzsm
I knew it was shital!!! khushi dealt with the situation really great!!….but arnav needs to trust khushi more now to deal with her professional problems which I guess he will do that…after this episode 😀 ….and I am hopeful that arnav-khushi’s bond will get more stonger day by day….loved the update <3
Varsha
BothArnav& Khushi are quite perfect to each other in every way…either in stubbornness or in smartness!!
& U showed the issues in professional & personal stark clearly…..Dear!!
& now there will be more understanding
& Now the boyfriend is back with some blossoms for his GF huh..😍😘
orchids8888
Dear I loved this update.
Going through this beautiful story, once again, is always a pleasure.
Hope so I get a guy like ‘this Arnav’ in real life. He is so caring, loving & respectful towards Khushi.
I loved the way Sheetal is fired.
Totally waiting for part 15.
(orchids8888 from IF)
Ravs
Admist all the chaos the only thing that brings sukoon is reading Arshi ff’s.
What can be better than starting ur day with this wonderful ff!
Love this chapter!
Felix felicis
Ha ha ha ha the last part nailed it
rajichellakani
Atlast sheetal is made out…
But this has brought a stiff in their relation..that is between ASR Vs Ms.Gupta…
The way you have expressed khushi dilemma on taking help from arnav without expressing her love shows how confident khushi’s character you have portrayed. ..
Hope all are as independent and confident like her…
And though I have already read this story it till makes me eagerly wait for the next part. ..Hope you give the next part soon…
drfizaahmed
I loved it how khushi did it
Work place with such high positions it’s difficult to keep bth lives separate but I loved arnve possessiveness too .. he was putting bth life alag alag now he can’t help but to act emotional … awe I loved it
Shit n all is out 😂… waiting to read all the romance
ccf94
Awesome khushi. She is strong and cool. Arnav loves khushi and wants to protect her. But khushi handles everything perfectly. Superb update. Hopefully khushi’s confession takes place soon. Awesome update. Eagerly waiting for more👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐
ranogill
I just love you because sheetal had little role in this story.. awesome
lakshmiteck
Sometimes u have to be independent to take ur own decision for ur self respect. Khushi is right trust is the big factor of every relationship
arshi1771168488
Amazing again you proved that if their is love they can go through any hurdle. That the thing you have mention beautifully through arnav and khushi story. Waiting for next update soon
chichu1
Shitall…haha..lol.. i looved that 🙂
Well done khushi..u proved ur worth again… dat u are always an asset to AR… NOW we will see how arnav will react to all these…
greyasr
Just splendid
godis222good
Wow, it’s been an amazing read. Bravo!!! It’s good that Khushi has such loyal colleagues/friends. Well done
chocmoc
I loved it. I admire Khushi’s strong will and determination to do things on her own. Someone like her who care about her profession and can take care of it passionately are inspirational for all women out there.
And I love my ASR as well. No competition or debate about that.
Loved the update. Looking forward to the next one as usual. 🙂
lovebooksmusic
Awesome chapter. ….i liked this strong khushi…. can’t wait to read ahead update soon
pinkly007
Aha … Shitall you are fired… these words were like music to my ears. Khushi was brilliant, her planning was foolproof. Lavanya and aman are sweethearts. They did such nice job supporting / helping khushi to take out Sheetal. I loved the planning, execution and firing part :-).
Arnav behaved like an ass for the first time in this story by breaking things and not trusting khushi to handle things on her own. But who can blame him. He cares for her and her reputation and he surely wants to protect her.
The ending was perfect. Arnav with beautiful flowers and a loving smile to pacify khushi ❤️.
But these small misunderstandings are required in any relationship to make it stronger and to understand each other better.
Very nice chapter Jigs. I liked it a lot.
vanismagadi
Well done Kushi… Way to throw Sheetal out.. splendid plan. Though I’m reading this second time, I love it way too much. The way you write, the sincerely n genuinely amazes me. Lav n Aman came in right time to help Kushi..well does Arnav takes this lightly? He should.. Kushi is way capable than he thinks in handling personal issues as well.
Cheers
fermeen30
Loved the update, brilliant. Love this strong Khushi and the way she handled the problem. Arnav is angry as he wanted to be the one to protect, however he should have remained calm. Guess time to pacify and woo, eager for the next part.
amadea15
Beautiful update. good that Sheetal is out waiting to see what will happen between ASR and Ms. Gupta .
(amina ahmed from twitter)
ff45reader
Hi…I did read stripped before but this episode wasn’t in chapter 14 was it?…Not being the one to be a spoiler for future chapters for new readers , but doesn’t HE make an appearance already by this time…I loved the dignified way sheetal was dealt with… waiting for next update..TC..bye.
Jigs~
The line up of the chapters have changed as I edit accordingly.
lathamageshwari
Good that Sheethal was fired by Khushi and proved to Arnav that she can handle work issues herself without Arnav’s intervention, it is not that Arnav does not trust her but he does not want her to loose her credibility at work, he is in every way trying to supportive. Lavanya and Aman helped Khushi in spotting Sheethal. can see friendship blooming between Lavanya and Khushi and he is at her doorstep to wish her for her accomplishment with lilies.
sbfili
Strong independent women all over the place 💪🏻
Good riddance and so long Sheetal (notice how much I’m trying to be polite)
I totally understand why Khushi needed to take the matter into her own hands.. for herself as much as for Arnav.. sort of a validation after a rocky week that she is still the same capable employee.. that she can manage both a hectic schedule and a blazing relationship.
She is still toddling into the relationship.. still can’t let go completely.. maybe due to past apprehensions.. but let’s give her credit for trying real hard..
On the other hand.. I can’t help but feeling a slight compassion for Arnav.. when you’re in any relationship.. you expect to receive the same amount of love.. you expect the same treatment.. and if you’re a generous person.. you will over look slight differences for the sake of the bigger picture.. so when Khushi decided not to include him, he saw that as distancing herself.. while he was ready to make a canon ball and jump right into.. and he handled the situation like a royal ass… so I’ll be happy watching him grovel..
sudhalata1
Reading Arshi FFs just lifts my mood and Stripped is a favourite. Though I have read it before but reading it again feels awesome. The way khushi wants to separate the two lives professional and personal and Arnav wanting to be there for her in both. Thank you dear for writing this
gkapoor123
Loved khushi here as she is strong and determined to solve her problem.Good she took the step to fire sheetal before she creates more problem for her.
Arnav is also very cute to bring liilies so as to bring a smile on her face.I hope their bond grows stronger and she alredy found new friends with lavanya and aman waiting for more to come
psiri123
beautiful update…sheetal is out of the pic..now khushi’s turn to give more in the relationship may be
shalini89
Nice update… Loved how Khushi showed how she could handle matters on her own… Arnav needs to have more belief in Khushi, and I think after this incident he will
brinthanaidu
Khushi the dragon lady
prudencesa
Yes I love this independent and strong and mind of her own Khushi. She has looked into all areas before confronting Sheetal, which is prudent.
I like this interaction between Khushi and Arnav with work and personal things in the way.
And Arnav’s lillies. Thank you.
luvraj4ever
Lovely as always.. I am so enjoying reading this all over again….
I am glad that Khushi finally sent away that Shitall 😂😂😂😂… Also khushi is right… Arnav need to give her space to deal with her problems herself… She will reach out to him when she needs a support… But he needs to hold back initially to let her fly…
Waiting for the next update
Hopefully a romantic one😍
johngaltifblog
Thankfully Sheettall…is out of the picture….
Now both of them can hopefully move forward in their relationship….
Thank you..;)
sharuag
I love reading your stories
Khushi taking her stand, she is brave and stronh. Your khushi’s are indepent, strong and brilliant.
Each one has flaws yet they shine through.
Your Arnav’s are the one who fight to keep the relationship. Not that khushi gives up, but when there is a fight or disagreement between them, Arnav takes the first step
In mending.
Loved this chapter, looking forward for the next
keerthana
I love the arnav in ur story! Hez just soo adorable!
sagatwilight1
One of my favorite chapters I must say. I love hoe Khushi works with wit and gets rid of sheetal. And to top it off with my favorite song!! Re reading this is amazing!!
wingedcupid
Dear Jigs,
Applaud you for presenting us Khushi as a strong character who has the conviction to solve the issues at workplace without involving Arnav.
And loved the way Arnav tried to balance being boss and boyfreind.
Thanks.
udithadarshani
Aweeeeee Arnav is soooo cute love the way he handled her when she is angry superb update
mrshulkinfinity
Awesome Chapter jigs…..
I love this khushi where she fights back herself and presented to her man that she is capable to fight all the hurdles of life…..But I don’t know if it makes sense or not I love this arnav who came back every time …..even after fights ….I admire how the boss transform into boyfriend in a mere seconds …it’s love….and i hope khushi will be out with her love confession soon <3
waiting for it…
and as SHITALL is out of the picture now…."kuch meetha ho jaye"
(and i didn't mean Arnav's kind of meetha 😉 )
with love
Mrs.Hulk <3
Ekta (IF:Luvbug)
Way to go Khushi!!! Arnav you need to trust her and let her take care of certain things on her own… but arnav is such a sweet heart <3
ha take that Shitall 😛 wohooo for La and Aman for helping out khushi in this detective operation 😀
Ah i think it is time for some Meetha and some heart felt confessions <3 <3
eagerly waiting for the next!!
sslmay11
Jigs!! Loved the update. This is the first issue that has come between them. Glad as khushi handled things on her own. That’s very important. Look forward to read their journey further.
sweetygirl28
Omg this update was full on high voltage drama.. khushi is more than capable of taking care of her problems.. but arnavs protective nature comes to the fore when it is about her.. he really can’t help it..
I liked how she solved her issues. Her mother’s words keeps ringing in My ears again and again. Hope nothing bad happens
radhikavelineni
Hi jigs thanks for the awesome update.Oh my first fight between miss Gupta and ASR.I like this Arnav character being a balanced boss and boyfriend.I like this confident khushi also.once again Tq so much for this update.
priyasimon
Hi jigs
another fantastick update with KhushI in the roll. she is brilliant professionally and can deal with any pressure with her head held high. but when it comes to her personal front she is reluctant and scared to take any step quite a contrast to arnav who in this story is more sorted both personally as well as professionally.
great to see the shift from boss to boyfriend.
reading this story for almost the 4th time, I almost know the scenes and story line by heart yet still wait like a hungry child for the updates to come in.
eagerly waiting for the next updates.
love
priya..😙
nimmskrish
was waiting for this part…I love when khushi is portrayed as a strong independent women. now eagerly waiting for Arnav and khushi to move to the next level. lovely update as usual jigs
nadiajhung
What a lovely chapter…….. it was so long and satisfying.arnav was angry at khushi for not giving him a chance to help her but khushi is so confident that she can solve her own problems and she did it wonderfully by getting rid of jealous shitall.
Arnav was so sweet to her and the way he balanced between the boss and the boyfriend was so awesome but now khushi is angry at him and how he will pacify her sweetheart will be a treat to watch 🙂
luckyarshi143
Lovely update
Glad dat Sheetal has been caught n appreciate Khushi for her efforts in her professional life without Arnav’s help..Indeed Arnav has every reason to be proud of his khushi.. Hope dey will clear their professional differences n take this positively as a test for their relationship..
Thanks for the beautiful update..Waiting eagerly for the next
jyothim78
Testing times for Arnav and Khushi, how will they balance their emotions and relationship between work and love…?
arshia2
Phew! Thank god Sheetal’s episode got wrapped up in one chapter! I think this chapter was definitely needed though to make them understanding the strength of their relationship. I hope Arnav can fix Khushi’s cranky mood…
Anamika
Wonderful part
Loved this strong Khushi a lot and how she handled and resolved Sheetal issue without Arnav’s help
She once again proved that she is able to handle things by herself
Khushi is upset and it seems Arnav is here to pacify her
Lets see how both of them are going to do now
Waiting for the next one
Thank you 🙂
radhikavelineni
Hi jigs please give me the access to Temptation Transumated story.
Jigs~
Looking at your comments, it seems you have barely engaged with the story. While I appreciate you reading my stories, unfortunately I won’t be able to give you access to TT as I am allowing access to those who are well engaged with the story through their feedback.
If you are interested you can read my open work. Though I would suggest you engage yourself should you want to be considered for access when the other blogs are made private.
All the best!
Kuldeep Kaur
HI I loved everything about this update this story I like this kushi full of confidence and what I say about arnav end of the day he is a darling boyfriend love it thanks waiting for the next update
anu1017
Ahh J totally love this update from huge Khushi could be an independent woman and solve her issues and does not need Arnav fir every small thing. Only thing is hopefully she will makes up her mind really quickly 😊
Eka Verma
It was good that Khushi took up the firing of that “Shitty Sheetal”!!! Khushi just proved that patience is power. It is not an absence of action rather it is timing…..she waited for the right time to act with the right principles and in the right way…..though she had to face the wrath of her astute boyfriend! But sabar the paal meetha hota hain na! 🙂
Love reading this story all over again….awesome Jigs!
jayasamhita
It’s good that Khushi did not allow the hairline crack in their professional relationship develop into a big crack.
By the way, Jigs, how do you manage to handle two different dimensions of Arnav and Khushi in Temptation and Stripped simultaneously?
Jigs~
Luckily Stripped is already complete as it was my first story, it’s just a matter of editing and polishing up a bit. 🙂
shalinimathur80
Different facets of love very beautifully portrayed in this update.. insecurity.. care.. naughtiness.. passion.. protectiveness.. anger.. frustration.. realisation.. need to give each other the opportunity to be independent and not lose their identity.. be a pillar of support through challenges but let your love fight it’s own battle knowing you are with them.. very important requirement for a strong and stable relationship.. awesome work jigs..
Dear Arnav… get ready for some piece of mind from your khushi.. 👍🏼
meghnas
Wow this was one roller coaster update!
Its really cute no matter how big an argument they have, Arnav eventually makes it all right 🙂 he is adorable!
Khushi was amazing in taking down Shitall !!!
Now that Arnav knows Khushi has handled the situation quite well, looking forward to him groveling 😛
varsha2KD
Lovely update
m so glad shitall is out now 😁
Aman and Lavyana are great friends
Arnav and khushi need to talk about this…
Gowthami
I m glad that sheetal ‘s truth is out
Loved d way khushi did handle the situation.. For her self-respect..
Loved it 💗
Wonderful chapter
sandiamalik123
That Sheetak huh. I wanted that bitch out of office and good riddance now.
Hope Khushi get over her confusion about her relationship with Arnav soon. And Gosh why can’t be just Selfish for Arnav once. And I hope no more arguments take place between them. Keep phiting! ❤️
Well pulled once again! 💝
shadowofbird
Shitall 😂😂 this name suits her so well
Khushi got her good riddance from her
Lavanya n Aman her in this n khushi expose her brilliant
Khushi u are in love n please confess it to Arnav pretty soon
Continue soon
Huma
shadowofbird
Arnav needs to pacify his girlfriend quickly or he will face her rage😂
ravalilovely1923
Oops I’m late this time..
Because of my project thesis and material testing along with my sem xms I’m little busy with work and continuously travelling. I didn’t get time to read.damn these xms.. But what can I do.. Sry
As usual wonderful update.
Sheetal gone…
Arnav with lillies good make up sir..
Khushi is right..
Loved the update..
I can’t give long detailed comments or read the stories for 1 month as I’m totally packed up..
But once I finish those I will surely read 10 times all the updates and comment on each section.
Take care
All the best
mahrusweety
Lovely fabulous part.
Happy that Shittall was thrown out perfectly.
Loved it
claucrispop
i love it…
i cant wait to see what happen next..
please update the next part soon…
i cant wait …
waiting…
readersworld253
Such a beautiful update and so realistic too… very nicely written
ritzsubu1204
Good riddance from sheetal
She was really a pain.And i am happy that It was Khushi who solved this matter in her own. I really loved Arnav’s nature to act as a bf when she upset at the whole office thing.
Ps : Sorry couldn’t read the update earlier.Busy with the external exams .
lakshmiteck
Hi Jigs.. can u please provide me access
Of temptation transmuted. I m may be not regularly giving feedback but I m a genuine reader
Jigs~
For a writer it’s hard to determine who a genuine reader is… especially when they have only commented once. While I appreciate you reading my stories, unfortunately I won’t be able to give you access to TT as I am allowing access to those who are well engaged with the story through their feedback. Thanks
lakshmiteck
It’s O.k.Thanks 4 reply
jtammareddy
amazing update. loved the way khushi deals the issue of sheetal. good riddance sheetal . poor arnav is in for earful.
thefirstrays
Khushi takes down ShitAll like a pro. 😎
I love how Arnav changed from the boss ASR to the sweet boyfriend Arnav 😍😍 😍
hrrashmi
Thanks
kavimay
Hi
Yey atlast sheethal is out of kushi ,for her revenge she s changing kushi schedule kushi did a very good job by firing her.
sushnak
So sad….
I hate this sheetal…..
soniia daula
Relationships sometimes get complicated but if one is confident and holds his own for the right… everything gets better.
Office politics are so common nowadays..u potrayed all these things very aesthetically.
Loved arshi moments and the way sheetal got fired was superb👍😘
Loved this update jigs.
gprs
Yey..shital is out ..i remembered this scene where he transformed from the boss to boyfriend:)
it was /is my one of my favorite scenes..
As much as i love Arnav’s protectiveness for his woman,this time i’m on Khushi’s side..she had to do that to prove herself..it very hurts to see the disappointment rather than anger in your loved ones..it will be a pleasure to watch the moment when his eyes are filled with pride for her..A relationship can’t go smoothly always..times like these will help to know each other a bit more..i always like to read how they were struggling, trying to understand each other better,overcoming the fights and solve it ..
Khushi is cute when she expected him to try/say something ,when he walked away..Aman and Lav are good friends and helped a lot..i loved the firing(i wished to fire Shital at least with my nephew toy gun) scene..she handled it better than i imagined..now i’m promising that i will be early from next time here and in temptation..i’m eager to see how Mr.Raizada will deal with Ms.Guptaer than i imagined..now i’m promising that i will be early from next time here and in temptation..i’m eager to see how Mr.Raizada will deal with Ms.Gupta
damjar
Love how Khushi keeps her Professional and personal life separate, even though she says she is not able to do it as well as Arnav. Glad that she was the one to handle the crisis and fire Sheetal. Arnav was more emotional in this situation, since he wanted to be there for Khushi and not let her face the hassle and the after effects. He wanted to be part of helping her out. But Khushi is right, he can not be around always given the workload, be it professionally or personally.
Seriously, what did Sheetal think, in that professional set up Khushi & Arnav and for the matter Lavanya will not notice the changes made to the schedules or the erroneous reports submitted. Proves how unprofessional Sheetal is.
Loved the support and professionalism of Lavanya and Aman. What a group the trio made in bringing Sheetal down before she did any damage to the Company.
Hopefully Khushi will think about her Personal relation with Her Arnav as well. It is time she moves ahead and opens up to him. She is emotionally close to him, but yet scared to talk. Probably this incident will help her out as well since she knows why Arnav was worried for her.
Lovely update Jig!! 💐
Sapna Gulrajani
The start of this chapter shows Khushi ‘s insecurities coming back with full force when she wakes up in the morning and does not find Arnav in bed or a note from him either. But her fears are unfounded, Arnav loves her and wants her to get some rest thus even makes sure to close the drapes so that she is not disturbed by the rising sun…so thoughtful <3 Love this Arnav from your story.
Khushi on the other hand is a independent and successful woman but very emotional and sensitive ….she needs to build her trust and not let her past flare up her insecurities all the time.
So finally SHITALL is fired…yay….I love the way Khushi handled the entire situation with the help of Aman and Lavanya…. Lavanya is such a sweetheart… there are always people like Sheetal everywhere be it professional or personal who are very sweet on top but behind your back they are scheming minds and ready to bring you down whenever they get a chance…good riddance 🙂
I did feel however that Khushi could have told Arnav about Sheetal, but then knowing how possessive and protective he is about her he would have blown his top so maybe it was better this way…..
I also love how seamlessly Arnav goes from being boss to boyfriend. I think this Sheetal issue will earn Khushi more respect in the eyes of Arnav, he already regards her as a strong and independent woman, now he will be fully assured that she is capable of handling most tough situations without needing help.
Awesome chapter…waiting to read more!
aranya19
Nyc chapter!
After the previous one, I was wondering what next? Surely I was eager to read abt Khushi’s confession… But certainly didn’t expected this situation….shittal! Seriously… What the hell did she think.. That she would walk away freely after all her cheap acts… Well glad that Khushi handled the situation herself and showed her the place she deserved.. Hope that her Cameo ends here 😉
As for our couple, these two may be different from each other in many aspects but both r quite stubborn.. 😁 their small heated talks were necessary for Khushi to clear her mind abt all that is happening in her life.
I loved Arnav’s “surprise comeback” when Khushi least expected it.. It shows how much this relationship means to him… Lovedd the update….
Waiting for another romantic update;)
cutieeijaz
Loved the update. As always awesome chapter.