Chapter 19

“They look so happy… don’t they?”

I get startled hearing Nani’s voice, as she comes and stands besides me.

She smiles at me, then looks towards Arnav and Anjali, who are engrossed in a conversation, laughing wholeheartedly.

And I smile, since I had the same thought moments before. Especially looking at Arnav. I have yet to see him laugh in public the way he is right now. Seeing him carefree warms my heart, and I would do anything to see him like this around his family more often.

I nod, as she looks at me, afraid to voice out loud what I am really feeling at the moment.

“I hope I am not intruding, but can I please see the picture you took of them before?”

Has she been watching me taking pictures from my phone?

But, there is nothing to be nervous about, after all Anjali is my friend so I have a valid reason to take pictures.

“Of Course…”

I pull up the photo and hand her my phone. The picture truly captures their bright smiles that reach the eyes. Arnav is hugging Anjali with love and happiness shining through as they celebrate the upcoming momentous milestone. Which is a miracle in itself.

I watch as she admires the photo, and then traces their faces with her fingers. She hands me the phone, as she fights back the tears in her eyes.

She sighs, and then looks out at them again.

“Khushi Bitiya, do you know when these two came to live with me, all I wanted was to see them happy like they are at this moment?”

I look at her curiously, and she takes my hand leading me to the family room.  We sit down on the sofa far from where everyone is gathered.  I feel my nerves taking over as she looks at me with a faint smile.

“I hope you don’t mind, but I wanted to talk to you privately.”  

The warmth in her voice, and her taking my hand in hers, puts me at ease to hear what she has to say.

“Of course not, Nani.”  

“I am not sure how much you know about Anjali and Arnav’s childhood, but I wanted to share it with you…”

I am aware of their painful past since they both have discussed it with me, but thanks to this courageous woman they have come a long way.  

But why does she want to talk to me about it?

“But, Nani…”

She shakes her head, squeezing my hand before continuing to speak.

“Please listen to what I have to say… Both of them, more so Arnav, had lost hope with life at a young age. After the accident which took their parents life, they lived a year of torture before coming with me. Life and people were very cruel to them, first losing their parents then living with barely any food and being locked in a room with nothing… not even light. When I saw them, it broke my heart that I could not get them sooner. I will never forget that image when I first saw them. Do you know this was because of greed for money and property that was left in their name? If they had told me that was what they were after, I would have given it to them to save them. But they punished my  precious children for no reason…”

I see as the tears escape her eyes, and I wipe them away holding back my own tears. I pull her into an embrace, as my heart aches seeing her this way and for those two children who suffered such cruelty.  

“Nani, you did save them, and look at them today…”  

She shakes her head as we pull away, and continues.

“Anjali was able to come out of the pain and started looking forward to life in a few years, but Arnav took a very long time. He kept to himself, rarely spoke; all he wanted was to make something of himself. He put all his efforts into his studies, then when I needed him he came and saved his Nana’s company. He has proven himself by becoming very successful with building a multi million enterprise with AR.” She smiles at me proudly about his success.

“Yes he has, and he will succeed further with this expansion making you more proud.”

“With you by his side at AR, he most definitely will. He might be leading the company, but I have heard you are behind the many recent accomplishments. For that, I am proud of both of you. Lately, I have noticed the changes in him, which makes me believe he has put his past behind him. The way he has started to mingle with the family, and look at him today… he is laughing!  My Chote is happy. I haven’t seen him this way since he was a little boy. And, do you know who is responsible for that?”

We both stare at each other for a few moments, and I start to feel my nerves coming back. But I am stunned at what she says next.

 

“You, Khushi Bitiya… I might be old, but I can see the love he has for you.  I knew when you first came here that my grandson was falling for you.  I know these things take time in your generation, so I haven’t said anything.  But when he came last night, his eyes only searched for you. I took the chance telling him to go in the kitchen, and ask you to serve him dinner. And, the smile that came on his face was enough for me to know I was right about you two.  I came by the kitchen seeing Anjali going in there, and I got my answer as he stood there claiming he found his Khushi. So this old lady knows that her grandson loves you… but do you love him?”

She looks at me eagerly, and without any hesitation I voice out loud.

“Yes Nani, I love him… very much.”

I smile looking directly at her, feeling a blush spreading across my cheeks seeing the smile on her face. I quickly look down embarrassed for declaring my love so openly to his grandmother. From all the people, she is the one that I open up to.

“Waise, I knew you love him but I wanted to hear it from you. If you both love each other, then why haven’t you said anything? I hope Chote isn’t putting pressure on you to not tell anyone.  I know he likes his privacy, and tends to not talk much. Did he say anything to you?”

My heart stops hearing the concern in her voice thinking that it’s Arnav, but the real reason has been me.

How can I tell her it was me that was apprehensive?

What will she think if she found out that I broke off my relationship with Sameer?

But she deserves to know, just like she felt I deserved to know about Arnav’s past.

“It wasn’t him… it was me.  I was afraid that…”

“What happened before to your rishta might happen again… am I right, Khushi Bitiya?”

“But… how do you know?”

“After you visited here a couple of times, I wanted to see you and Chote together.  I could see there was something between the two of you. I called a few of my contacts in Lucknow to find out about your family, so I can speak to your parents to get to know them better. Anjali wouldn’t give me their information, so I reached out on my own. But, when I found out your rishta was broken by your family a few days before your wedding, I decided to hold off until you both approached us.”

I start feeling uneasy that she can easily judge me like society has been doing since this nightmare occurred in my life. Even now it haunts me.

I look at her feeling her hand on my shoulder. She shakes her head wiping my tears away that I didn’t realize were there.

“Khushi Bitiya, I know you well enough by now to realize it was not your fault.  Plus, I have seen how cruel this world can be, things are not as they appear.  Whatever your reason was, it had to be something significant for a girl like you, and your parents to take that step.  I know you come from a good family.  People just need an excuse to point fingers without realizing how tough it is for a girl to live in our society. I am proud of you for being brave to stand up for your right. And, admire you to move to this country on your own. Luckily for us, you came into our lives, most importantly Chote’s. I can’t thank you enough for giving me a glimpse of my little boy. Knowing you are by his side, I know he won’t be alone anymore.”

She pulls me into an embrace, and I break down in tears feeling overwhelmed with the compassion and respect she has given me without judging me.

She understands me, and my love for Arnav, looking past everything else.   

“Shhh… bas, Khushi Bitiya… it’s okay. This Nani will always be on your side…”

“Nani… Khushi… what happened? Why are you guys sitting here alone?  Di is looking for you both.”

Hearing Arnav’s voice, I quickly wipe away the tears before letting Nani go. I look down, and take a deep breath before looking up at him.

He immediately stiffens, and curls his hand up in a fist, as his gaze meets mine.  I give him an assuring look, there is nothing to worry about and he relaxes a bit.

“Is everything okay here?”  

“Now it is… sab theek hai, kyun Bitiya?”

I smile, and nod at her.  

“But, why is she…”

She stands up, and goes next to him, putting her hand on his shoulder to stop him from saying anything further.

“I was just talking to your Ms. Gupta… oh wait, I think now she is your Khushi.  Which one is it Chote?”   

I smile at him, as my cheeks flush, and then I see him smiling back at me before facing Nani.

“Nani, she is my Khushi. But how…”

“You inherited your smart genes from me, so did you think I would not find out? Your Nani is old, not dumb. I could clearly see it on your face, remember I know you very well. I am so happy my Chote found his Khushi.”

He smiles at her, and then pulls her into an embrace.

“I love you, Nani. Thank you.”

“I love you too. Come here, Bitiya…” She says putting out one arm towards me.

I walk up to them, and both of them pull me in an embrace.

“I pray to Devi Maiya that you both will always be happy together.”  She whispers.

When we pull away, I bend to touch her feet in which Arnav follows my lead.

“My blessings are always with you both. Now I am waiting to see my Chote get married, and give me some great grandchildren.”

I can’t help smile and I look forward to fulfilling her wish, as she fondly looks at Arnav and me.  

“Nani, we have plenty of time for that, in the meantime you have Di’s baby.  Speaking of Di, she is panicking about something, and is looking for you both.”

“Khushi Bitiya, I will go handle her. You can freshen up, then come.”  She says caressing my face, before walking back to the main area where the function is taking place.

With his tender gaze fixed on me, Arnav walks up close to me and wraps his arms around me. And, I hold onto him tightly, for once not worrying if anyone sees us.

“Are you okay?”

“Hmm…” I look up at him, as he brushes my hair to the side of my face and smiles at me.

“Well it looks like Nani made it easier for us. Are you going to tell me what happened to make you cry that has turned your eyes red and puffy?”

“I will tell you later, but I need to go fix my face right now. Arnav, we need to go back out there… today is about Anjali. You go and I will be there shortly.”

“You are one remarkable woman…”

He places a gentle kiss on my forehead before he walks away.

“And you, my love, are one extraordinary man!”

The rest of the ceremony goes  by smoothly with us keeping Anjali calm. Which turns out to be a job in itself with Payal and I taking turns to be by her side.  But we wouldn’t have it any other way to make sure she is taken care of.

I find myself glaring at Arnav as he finds it amusing as we try to control her from walking around too much. Even Anjali glares at him telling him to leave when he constantly keeps coming over.

Anjali screams in glee, when Nani comes over and tells her that she knows about Arnav and me. Seeing her so excited makes me feel guilty for hiding this from her. But she reassures me to not worry.  

I start thinking about how my parents are going to react, which makes me anxious. Now that Nani knows, I need to tell them immediately.   

Will it be as easy with them?

For now, I decide not to think about it till we get back home tomorrow.  

Thankfully I am kept busy all day to keep me occupied to not think about it further.

I find myself soaking it all in. What it is to be part of this family with love and pride as they include me in the celebrations and preparations for the Roka.  

Later at night after we are done with all the preparations, we gather in the living room to discuss the plans for tomorrow.  

As Anjali and I are talking, Arnav comes and sits next to me.

I raise my eyebrow asking him if he needs anything, but he shakes his head and looks down at his phone.

Hearing the familiar alert on my phone, I look at him in disbelief and shake my head.

My turn to use his line!

“Unbelievable!” I mutter.

Is he really texting me sitting right next to me?

This man has lost it!

I shake my head, and continue to talk to Anjali ignoring my phone.  

And then the alert goes off again, as does he, speaking up.

“Khushi, I heard your phone a couple of times, think you might have a message. You might want to check it.  You never know, it could be something important.”

I glare at him, and his lip curves up in a smile.

“Yeah I think I heard it as well, Khushi. You should check it…  Oh, Nani, I was thinking for tomorrow…” Anjali adds before getting distracted talking to Nani.

I glance at my phone while ignoring him as his gaze is fixed on me. There are two messages, and another message pops up.

“I just wanted to remind you about tonight. So, are you ready to lose?”

“What the… Did you just ignore me?

“Sweetheart, you know I always get my way so why do you even try?  BTW… I am waiting for my answer.  Who is going to lose tonight… You or me?”

This man does not give up, if he thinks I am going to lose he is mistaken.  I type my text furiously and hit send.

“Khushi Kumari Gupta has yet to lose against Arnav Singh Raizada… And she definitely is not going to lose this one.  I suggest you prepare yourself for another loss!”

He has an amused smile on his face, looking at his phone, then winks at me. I hear his voice when I look away from him.

“Di, I have some work that I need to take care of, so I am going up to my room, then off to bed. Today was a long day for you, and another one tomorrow, please go to sleep soon. Remember what the doctor said, not to overwork yourself.”

“Yes boss! I promise to go to sleep soon.”

“Actually we all should go to bed soon, it is getting late, and everyone is probably tired. Chote, don’t stay up late working.”  

“I won’t Nani.  Goodnight everyone.”

He slightly brushes my arm as he stands, and then takes a couple steps before stopping. I watch as he turns around and stares at me.

“Oh, one more thing… can everyone please keep the noise down, especially Khushi? It was so loud last night and I couldn’t sleep.”

“What?!” I yell, and stand up putting my arms on my waist.

But I quickly sit down realizing everyone is staring at me, shocked at my outburst.

“You better leave my Khushi alone, she is so sweet and definitely not loud. Plus there are a lot of people in this house so it’s bound to be noisy. You are probably just jealous, that you are not having fun with us while you work upstairs.”

“Whatever you say, Di… make sure you give your sweet Khushi meetha, because she loves meetha.”  

He smirks, and then walks away.

I sit there staring at his back as my cheeks flame up, mortified at what he has said.  

Unbelievable!

An half hour later, when I make my way upstairs just like yesterday his door is open and he is sitting on the bed with his laptop. This time I stand at his doorway, ready to give him a piece of my mind about his behavior downstairs, but then decide against it.

I stare at him for a moment, as he waits for me to come in. But instead, I lean against the doorway with my arms across my chest.

“Come to my room in fifteen minutes, am I clear?”  I say with a straight face.

“Very clear, sweetheart.”

I turn around, and walk into my room then in the shower in a trance thinking about the times we have been intimate since last weekend realizing this challenge will be tough.   

Based on what I have experienced so far with him, how does one stay quiet?

After spending extra time in the shower deep in thought, I get out quickly drying myself and wrap the towel around me knowing he will be here any minute.  

As I make way out of the bathroom, he walks into the room locking the door before turning towards me.

His smoldering gaze wanders down my body, and I feel the familiar heat awaken deep inside me.

But, then I realize how to get back at him.

It’s time to have some fun!

“Oh, has it been fifteen minutes already?  I figured I would take a shower before you got here. You must be tired, why don’t you go lie down on the bed, while I get…  oops!”

I unwrap the towel, and let it slip onto the floor.

“Khushi…”

I smile at the victory as his husky voice calls out my name. But, I turn away as he makes his way towards me and go to the dresser.

He stops with his gaze fixed on me following my every move.

“Baby, do you like these? I bought them earlier this week.”

I show him my red lace bikini panties, and watch as his mouth drops as I bend down to slowly slip them on.

“Like is an understatement… but, why are you…”

He stops speaking mid-way, as I stand up straight, and shake my head.

He raises his eyebrow at me, when I take out my black silk night gown from the drawer.

“I had packed this as well, since I knew you wouldn’t be able to stay away, so I came prepared.”

I quickly put on the night gown, as he walks towards to me, and I take a step back.

“What the…?”  

“Why are you speaking so loudly?  Shh…”  I whisper.

“Sweetheart, what are you up to?  Are you planning on torturing me tonight? I thought I was going to torture you.”

There is blatant heat in his eyes as he walks up close to me.

“Baby, but you did torture me downstairs, so it’s only fair I get back at you now. I don’t think either of us is getting loud anytime soon. We are going to take it slow, very slow tonight.”  

I turn away, and take my laptop from the table then walk over to the bed.

He lets out a husky laugh, and sits down next to me.

“After the show you just put on for me, I’m not sure I can wait…”  

He takes the laptop from my hand, and places it on the side table.

“Arnav, I need to take care of some work, give me the…”

Before I can finish, he pulls me down grabbing my waist and leans down bringing his lips close to mine.  

“And, I need to be inside you…”  

He whispers, as his hand raises the bottom of the gown, and then caresses my thigh.

I place my fingers on his lips, and shake my head.

“But I am not in the mood right now, actually…” I yawn, stretching out my arms. “I am so tired after all that work I did today. I think we should go to sleep.”

“Come on, why are you doing this?  I am sorry about downstairs… Okay?”  

He raises his voice, and I shake my head.

“Look at who’s being loud…  You need to be quiet everyone is trying to sleep.”  

“But no one can hear us, the study is below your room.”

“Maybe no one can hear us talking, but they might hear other noises. You did say I am loud. Though so far tonight, you have been rather loud. I think it’s best to sleep, for now.”  

I place a peck on his cheek  before getting out of his hold. Then I pull the covers over us, and move to the edge of the bed with my back to him trying to hold in my laughter as I hear the famous phrase.

“Unbelievable!”  

He sighs getting under the covers, and continues to quietly mumble under his breath.   

After a few minutes when I don’t hear him, I turn to face him, and he is lying on his side facing me.

His penetrating gaze sears right through me, and I realize it’s futile to stay away from him.

I shift closer to him to the edge of my pillow, as my body craves his touch.  

I close my eyes as he caresses my face down to my neck, and he huskily whispers the three words that always takes my breath away.

“I love you.”

My hands move to his face pulling him closer to mine, as I whisper.

“I love you too.”

I place my hands around his neck tugging him closer, yearning for his lips to touch mine. Without saying a word, he understands my need. His tongue slides on the bottom of my lip, making it’s way inside my mouth as I part my lips, then captures them.  

His hands feverishly shift my nightgown up to my waist. I arch up as his hand runs across my waist, then slides down inside my panties as his fingers sink inside of me.

He pulls away from my lips, and trails kisses down my neck to my chest. I let out a soft moan feeling a heated rush spread around my core, as he deepens his fingers circling inside me.

“Khushi, it’s time to see who can stay quiet, shall we?” He whispers breathing heavily in my ears before looking down at me with his darkened gaze.

“You are the one who’s making noise right now by talking, don’t you think?”

He smirks, then slams his lips hard on mine biting my lower lip, then deepens the kiss.    

I arch my hips, pulling him closer as his skilled fingers continues to rub my core, making me want to fall apart at the seams.  I run my fingers through his hair pulling him closer, and he groans as he pulls away.

We both stare at each other as desire runs through us, inflaming the need for the other.  He sits up on his knees, and I follow his lead.  

He places soft kisses on my bare shoulder, pushing the thin straps down.  I tremble at his touch, feeling goosebumps erupt all over me.

He lifts my hands up, and pulls off the silk fabric, serving as a barrier, and throws it across the room. My hands follow in tandem, discarding his shirt.

There is hunger in his gaze as his hands cup, and mold my breasts, then he runs his fingers grazing over the tightening peaks.  My head falls slightly back, biting my lip to keep myself from moaning out loud, as he continues to stir up pleasure and pain.

I don’t hold back, feverishly running my hands on his chest, before flicking his nipple with my fingers.  

“Oh, Khushi…”  He moans my name leaning back against the headboard, as I continue to circle my fingers on his chest.

I can’t help but smile, as he stares at me.  

He sighs and shakes his head, then quickly pushes me down on the bed, and roughly pulls off my panties.

I clutch onto the sheets, as he takes my breast into his mouth biting and suckling hard, taking turns between the pair.  I arch up running my hands up and down his back at the torture being unleashed on me to not be able to let out a sound, when all I want to do is scream.   

Feeling his hardness on my thighs, I slide my hands inside his boxer briefs, caressing his bottom, and he presses down on my thigh. I move to the front taking his arousal in my hand, and his dark gaze fixes down on me. I stare at him as I continue to stroke him, and he whispers into my ears.

“I won’t last if you continue…”

“Baby, I don’t want you to last, I want you inside of me.”

That’s it I can’t take it anymore, and I push him off of me. Seeing my impatience, he sits up, and pulls off his briefs. He leans up against the headboard, grabbing the foil packet from the side table.

“Soon we won’t have to use this…”  He says opening the foil packet.

My cheeks flush at the thought of what it would feel like having him inside of me without the condom, now that I have started taking the pill.

Once he pulls out the condom from the packet, my boldness takes over as I take it from his hand and slide it on with one last hard stroke making him let out a moan.  

Placing my fingers over his lips, I sit up kneeling on my knees.  He pulls me closer holding my waist, and slides his fingers inside, stroking me and I can feel myself on the verge of reaching my peak.

“I love that you are always ready for me.”  

I let out a soft moan, as he lifts me up onto his lap. I settle myself down on him, as he lodges himself inside me slowly.  I close my eyes wanting to moan in pleasure, and still in place feeling all of him as my core wraps around him.  

I open my eyes, as he pulls my face towards him placing a gentle kiss which turns deeper as I slowly shift back and forth clutching onto his shoulders.  He pulls away, placing sensual kisses on my neck and holds onto my hips tightly.  

His gaze is drugged with desire as he guides me with the motion by lifting me then lowering me down on him. I take control registering the motion, by taking him inside of me again and again as my body pounds against his as we are on the brink of losing control.

Both of us trying to hold on, feverishly stroking and fondling the other in hopes for a loud gasp or moan, but we lose ourselves as we find our release together.  

He moans out my name, as I moan his pressing down deeper as we climax, holding each other tightly when I fall against him.

He slides down wrapping his arms around me, as we lay down on the bed in each other’s arms trying to control our beating hearts.

I find myself relaxing, curling up to him, as I whisper.

“I won…”

He kisses my forehead and I smile as my eyes shut on their own accord falling into a peaceful slumber as I hear him whisper.

“You always will, sweetheart.”

The next day we celebrate Lavanya and NK’s Roka at her house in central New Jersey in the afternoon. Her face shining brightly with happiness as the family welcomes her into the fold. But her eyes search for NK, who was not allowed to  come for the ritual.

After we are done with lunch, Anjali and I are sitting together as I watch Arnav across the room who looks like he is ready to bolt out of here.  

A few minutes later, I can’t help let out a chuckle as he impatiently walks over to us.

“What are you laughing at?” I hear Anjali ask.

“It looks like your brother has met his quota for socializing this weekend.”  I say under my breath as he stops in front of us.

“Di, I need to head back to the city now. So, Khushi and I are going to take our leave now.”

Anjali and I both look at each other, and burst into laughter.  

A couple of hours later, we walk into the penthouse and I take a deep breath when we walk into the living room.

“It feels so good to be back home, Arnav.”

I wrap my arms around his neck, and he leans down placing a gentle kiss on my lips.

“I finally get you to myself. I know we should have gone to the apartment today, but thanks for coming here. I need to be out early tomorrow morning for that breakfast meeting I rescheduled from Saturday.”

“It’s the least I could do since you rescheduled the meeting to come see me. And, look what came about from you coming early? Now your family knows about us.”

He takes my hand and leads me to a sofa where we sit down. I place my head on his shoulder, wrapping my arm around his.

“Khushi, now that Nani knows everything, I think we should tell your parents.  I know my family won’t say anything to anyone until we are ready, but your parents deserve to know.”

I sigh, then look up at him and nod.

“I have been thinking about that since yesterday. Nani has accepted me knowing everything about my past, making it easy when I thought that could be a hurdle in our relationship. But, how are my parents going to react? Will they be as open about us knowing you are my boss?”

“I knew my Nani would accept you, she loves you for who you are. How can anyone not love my Khushi? As for your parents, we will handle it together.  Would you rather tell them in person?  Maybe we can go to Delhi to speak with them.”

“No we don’t need to go to Delhi now, I know the next few months we don’t have any time to spare to be away. I was thinking of Skyping them later tonight that is why I had suggested my place, but I can do it from your study.”

“Why didn’t you tell me earlier?  Sweetheart, we could have gone to your apartment. Do you want to go there now?”

“No, it’s fine, Arnav. And, it’s about time I stop hiding our relationship. If they ask, I will tell them the truth that I am here. Is it okay, if I speak with them alone first?  I can introduce you to them once they are ready.”

He smiles, raising my hand towards his mouth and places a kiss.

“Sure, I understand. But, if they want to meet us, we will make the time to go see them.”

“Let’s see how it goes tonight, I just hope it turns out well.”

We sit in silence for a few minutes both us lost in our own thoughts.

I decide to distract myself, and get up from the sofa to put our things away that are gathered by the front door. But he stops me, holding onto my hand as he stands up.  

He stares at me with a heated glint in his gaze, and pulls me towards him.

“Whatever you have in mind can wait… for now what I have in mind can’t. Now you and I can be as loud as we want in our home. What do you say, should we make up for lost time?”

I stare back at him as my heart starts beating faster, and smile, which is all he needs for his lip to curve up into a sexy smile. Then I gasp, as he bends down and picks me up.

“Where to Ms. Gupta?”

“Our bed, Mr. Raizada…”

How good it feels to be back home and in his arms…

After we finish our dinner, I make my way into Arnav’s study with my laptop and phone. After looking around the spacious room, I decide to sit on the sofa that is positioned against a solid wall.

“Devi Maiya raksha karna.”  I chant calling my parents.

“Hi, Khushi! How was Anjali’s Godh Bharai?  Are you back now?” I hear my mother.

“Hi Amma! It was wonderful and we all had a lot of fun. Anjali looked so pretty, and you should see her glowing. I will email you some pictures later. Waise, is Bauji home?”

I hear my mother laughing, as she calls him.

“Arrey of course he is home, and it’s quite early. Did you want to speak to him? Wait, did something happen that you are calling us this early?”

And there it goes, she switches to panic mode.

“Amma, relax! There is nothing wrong… Um, I wanted to Skype with both of you.  Can you tell Babuji to video call me right now? I have my computer on.”

“Haan Bitiya, give us a few minutes. He is turning on his computer.”

“Theek hai.”

I hang up, and wait anxiously for the longest five minutes ever. I drink some water as I wait. As I put the bottle down, I smile recalling Arnav making me take the water much to my reluctance.

I look at my screen hearing the alert from my laptop, then take a deep breath before accepting the call.

When my parents appear on screen, I smile and wave to them. Seeing them in front of me, makes me emotional wanting to be there with them to share this news.

“Hi Titaliya! You missed me so much, that you wanted to Skype this early in the morning?  Because, I know it wasn’t for your Amma…”

“Ap bhi na…”  She shakes her head, as my dad chuckles.

“Babuji, leave my Amma alone.  And I miss both you very much.” I yell throwing kisses at them.  

“Who are you, and what have you done with our daughter?”

“Well there is a reason, why your daughter is behaving this way. Should I tell you Amma and Babuji?”  

“I told you there is something going on with her…”  My mother tells my father.

“Yes, tell us. I would like to know why my daughter is so happy.”  My father says interrupting my mother.

I sigh, trying to calm my nerves.

“That is because I found what I came here for, Amma and Babuji. My career is going well, actually more than well. I really love my job, making a difference at AR without anyone holding me back. I love this city, and the fact I am not reminded of the past at every turn. I have finally moved forward. And, I have found myself again. Your Khushi is finally happy again after so many years… I can be myself.”

I can see tears in my parents eyes, as I finally open up to them after being here for a few months. I shake my head, to fight back the tears since I haven’t told them everything.

“Who is he?”

I smile at my father’s direct question, and deep down I knew he would know there is someone in my life.

“Arnav… Arnav Singh Raizada.”

“What?  Your boss?  I don’t understand… How can you let this happen, Khushi?”

My smile quickly fades away, as my father stares at me in disbelief.  

What I feared about our working relationship being an issue with my father, comes and hits me hard.

“Can’t you see how happy she is? For the first time in years, I am seeing my old Khushi. And instead of listening to her, you are throwing accusations at her?”

“Don’t you think I want to see my daughter happy too? I am happy to see her like this. But Garima, we can’t ignore the fact that she is in a relationship with Arnav Singh Raizada. He is her boss… not to mention rich and powerful. What if he is taking advantage of her? I can’t see her getting hurt again.”

As he looks away, I feel my heart aching, and stay still for a few moments, in a daze thinking about how to get through to my father.

“Babuji…”

I wait for him to face me before I continue.

“If only you knew Arnav, you would not say those things about him. Yes, he is my boss, rich, powerful, but he has never, I mean never taken advantage of me. He has always shown me respect, and loves me unconditionally without expecting anything in return. He has given me more regard in the last few months versus what Sameer could never give me in the few years I was with him.  I love him, and he loves me.”

There is silence for a few minutes, as my father stares at me, and my mother’s tender gaze is fixed on me.

“I know you need time…”  I start to say but my father interrupts me.

“Is he committed to this relationship as much as I see your commitment towards him?”

“He has been more committed than I have… he has been telling me for a while to inform our families. But I have been hesitant, afraid that once everyone finds out, I would lose him.”

“Has he told his family about you or is he hiding this from them as well?”

“Anjali and Nani, found out this weekend.”

“And what did they say?” My mother speaks up.

I spend the next few minutes explaining Anjali’s wish to see us together since she met me at Wharton, and how she is ecstatic to see us finally together.  Then I tell them about how Nani approached me yesterday, and our conversation.  And, the fact that she accepted me despite my broken rishta.

Once I finish, I can see my father relax, but he is still hesitant.

“Did you hear what she just said? His family supports our daughter. And, can’t you see the love in her eyes for him? Don’t you think you should give our daughter’s happiness a chance?”

Watching my mother plead with my father, brings tears to my eyes.  

How is that she can see my love for Arnav, but my father can’t?

I get up, slightly tilt my screen so my parents can’t see the tears that I have been holding back break free.

“Titaliya…”

I smile hearing my father’s tender voice call me. Quickly wiping the tears away, I adjust the screen up.

“Yes Babuji.”

“I hope you understand that I want to see you happy, which is why I let you move there in the first place. Do you know hard it was to let you go alone? I worry not having you here with us, especially after what has happened.  And, I just don’t want to see you get hurt.  But then I know my daughter, she must have taken the same apprehensions I brought up into consideration before going into this relationship. It’s apparent that my Khushi is very happy and in love, so who am I to say no?”

He nods looking at my mother, before turning to me and smiles.  

“Thank you Babuji. I know once you get to know Arnav, you will love him as well.”  

“I would like to talk to Arnav soon, so can you send me his number or have him call me.”

I nod, smiling at him, wiping the tears away from my face.

“Okay, both of you stop now. I can’t see my two favorite women crying, plus this is not a serial that all these tears are needed.”

“If that’s the case you should tell yourself that, you became the villain father from the serials with my daughter.” Amma glares at my father, and I grin shaking my head.

But then she faces me, and her inquisition begins!

“Okay, Khushi, tell us more about Mr. Raizada.”

My father and I look at her curious to know why she addressed him that way.

“Why are you staring at me like that?”  She says looking at both of us.

“Amma, why are you calling Arnav, Mr. Raizada? Please just call him Arnav.”

She gets embarrassed and nods, as my father and I chuckle.

We spend the next twenty minutes discussing Arnav. I tell them about him, from a professional and personal aspect. I also fill them on our relationship, as much as you tell your parents without giving too much away.  

Towards the end of the call, my mother is elated about our relationship, and it looks like my father has warmed up a bit.  But I can tell he is cautious, but I hope with time he will fully accept Arnav.

I promise to email some pictures from the Godh Bharai, along with some of Arnav since my mother specifically asks for them.

After an emotional goodbye with my parents, I make my way outside in search for him. I find him in the living room sitting on the sofa working with his laptop and files on the coffee table.  When he hears me, he immediately turns around, and stands up placing his laptop on the table.

As I walk up close to him there is curiosity brimming in his gaze.  And to ease into this conversation, I decide to lighten the situation.

“I am going to get something to eat from the kitchen. Should I get you anything?”

He looks at me incredulously, and I can’t help smile.

“Are you seriously thinking about food right now?  You and your food timings are always off. Please tell me what did they say, then you can stuff your face all you want.”

He says making me sit on the sofa.

“Huh, stuff my face?! Forget it.”

I shake my head at how impatient he is, then decide to get serious to tell him about the conversation I had with my parents.  

“Okay, just as I expected Amma was happy. Think seeing me happy, and my love for you, was enough for her to accept our relationship. But, Babuji… was hesitant with you being my boss, rich and powerful… his words, not mine.  Though towards the end of the call he was more accepting of our relationship, but I can sense he will need some time.”

He nods, and gives me a small smile.  

“Arnav, once he gets to know the man that I love dearly with all my heart, he will be fine.” I say, taking his hand into mine.

“I know, but how are we going to manage that being on two different continents?”

‘Technology, baby! Oh, he wants to speak with you soon. That will be a great start to work your charm on them.”

“Really? Sure, I can speak with him when he is ready. I know how much your parents mean to you, so I will do everything to have him fully accept our relationship. After all, I was able to work my charm on you.”

“Indeed, your charm is pretty irresistible. Obviously I couldn’t stay away… actually that sexy smile on your face right now is pulling me right towards you.”

I stand up, and then sit down on his lap wrapping my legs and arms around him placing a gentle kiss on his lips.

“I am so glad you came into my life… I love you so much, Arnav!

“I love you so much too, Khushi!  And, everything is going to fall into place, just like it has so far.”

He wraps his arms around me pulling me close to him.  I place a kiss on his cheek then rest my head on his shoulders.

Devi Maiya, thank you for bringing me Arnav into my life.

Later that week at the office, I look up from my screen, as Arnav walks into my office closing the door behind him.

“Hi, how was your lunch meeting?  You’ve been gone for a long time.”  I say, as Arnav walks up to me and leans against my desk crossing his arms across his chest.

“It went fine, I am actually going to move forward with the acquisition. One of the partners is obnoxious, but once I take over he will have no choice in the matter. It’s a small firm, but I am more interested in the software they have developed. There are some great benefits that we can incorporate with AR holistically. It should take a couple of months for the deal to go through. Let’s see how it goes.”

“That’s great!  Congratulations Mr. Raizada!” I stand up extending my hands towards him.

He smiles, and shakes my hand.

“Khushi, I think with every new deal I make, you should give me a treat.”  He says with a wicked smirk on his face.

“What?!  Don’t you think it should be the other way round? Anyway, I know the treat you want, but sorry you have to wait a few more days.”

“Which reminds me… how are your cramps today? Any better?”

“It’s a monthly occurrence, so I am used to it, I am fine today. Oh do you need my help with this new acquisition?  I know you have been handling this one your own, but with everything else going on- thought you might need some help.”

“No, like I said it’s a small firm so I can handle it. I am going to pull in Aman to check out the technology component and to deal with that obnoxious guy.  I will need you to get involved once we takeover, of course. You have enough to deal with right now.”

“Now I am curious about this guy who seems to have irritated you. Will I be dealing with him as well?”

“Let’s not talk about him right now.  And I can’t believe I got distracted to not mention this as soon as I walked in… your father called me before my meeting…”

He takes my hand, and has a serious expression on his face as I feel my heart pounding.

“Well…”

“Sweetheart, relax… it was fine. Though we didn’t get to talk much since I had reached the restaurant. I did tell him, it was okay. But he was very understanding.  I told him, I will call him back later tonight. We did talk briefly, more of an introduction. I think we both felt awkward, but it went well for a first call.”

“I can only imagine how awkward it must have been, but I am happy he felt comfortable to call you after I gave him your number earlier this week.”

“Yes me too. We both love you, and will make this work. It will all work out over time.”

His gaze meets mine, and I see determination in them for making this right for me. That determination gives me hope that no matter what comes our way, we will handle it together.

Arnav will always be on my side, as I will his, forever.

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