Chapter 20

Three months later…

“Arnav, did you want to see me?”

My question flies out as soon as I step inside his office, closing the door behind me.

“Yes, please have a seat.”

He glances up, closing the file on his desk, and points to the chair opposite him.

“Sorry, my staff meeting ran over today, as we were diving into some of the new launches. Lavanya just told me you wanted to see me for something urgent. Did you have questions on the outline and figures I sent earlier on the Stillman acquisition?”

Getting down to business, I open up my laptop, and wait for him to begin.  But when he doesn’t say a word, I look up to find him staring at me, which causes me to raise my eyebrow.

“Actually, I have some news…”

“Is this work related or personal?”

That lopsided smirk, one that I know too well, makes me inquire.

“Professional. And, I think you will be very pleased with what I have to tell you.” He pauses, locking his eyes on mine.

“So… are you going to tell me or sit there staring at me all afternoon?” Now it’s my turn to smirk right back, as he shakes his head, and then grins.

“What I would love to do to your smart mouth right now.”

“Well you deserve it after the shower stunt this morning. What were you thinking pulling me in with you after I was dressed and ready to leave for work? I almost missed my meeting this morning with the second shower and…” My words halt, rightfully so, feeling my cheeks flame up thinking about the shower escapade.

His lip curves up, and then he whispers huskily. “So you didn’t enjoy it?  It was steamy and hot, not only because of the water but…”

I close my eyes for a quick moment, before my gaze falls on him again, and I know it’s time for me to divert the topic for my own sanity. Afterall it’s business hours.

“Arnav, we’re digressing from what you called me in here for. If you want us to leave on time today, we need to get back to work. There is so much that needs to get done in the next few hours. What is this news you have for me?”

He seems to be highly amused, no doubt from me abruptly changing the topic.  But then his expression quickly changes, as he shifts in his seat getting back into business mode. I sit back in my seat amazed at how quickly he can switch gears, something I have come to admire working for him. He has definitely proven that he can separate our professional and personal relationship. Something I continue to struggle with at times.  

“Do you know what today is, Ms. Gupta?” He pauses waiting for a response. But unable to figure out the significance of today’s date, I simply shrug. “It’s been six months since you started working for AR. And, according to the terms you negotiated in the contract; you realize what is supposed to happen?”

“Six months? Already? I didn’t even realize, until you just mentioned it. I had forgotten about the contract. It’s interesting that something I was so adamant about getting added, slipped my mind.” I smile thinking about the back and forth with HR who served as the mediator between Arnav and I when the contract was drawn up, prior to me accepting the offer.

“To be honest, when I first saw your terms and the goals you had set for yourself for six months, then a year; I really didn’t think it was possible for you to achieve them. Don’t get me wrong, I knew you would be exceptional, heck that was the reason why I recruited you. But you have to agree that the targets you set were aggressive. But you proved me wrong by exceeding your goals, that is very impressive.”

“I know they were aggressive, but at the time, I was confident I would be able to achieve them. After hearing about the role, and of your vision for AR in the States, it made this position appealing. The possibility of growth was like icing on the cake. That’s when I knew, I had to come here and make an immediate impact. Which would be possible based on my experience with the companies you were going after. What I didn’t expect was our working dynamic to be so in sync with each other making it relatively easy for me to achieve my goals- or should I say our goals.”

“We do work well together, that’s for sure. And, the difference you have made here at AR is recognized by everyone in this company. Along with the growth we have achieved which you played an active role to help accomplish. So, Ms. Gupta, I am pleased to tell you about your promotion to Chief Operating Officer for the US division effective immediately.”

Wait, did I hear him correctly?  

“Arnav, but…”

“Hear me out first before you say anything.”

All I can do is nod, curious to see to what he has planned with offering this position to me. One that was not part of the agreement…

“You know we are growing at a rapid rate where my focus needs to be on the upcoming acquisitions. That will be consuming majority of my time. Also, Aakash is returning to Delhi in a month, which means I need someone to take charge of the daily operations here. Hence why I needed to make organizational changes. You oversee things here, while Aakash handles Delhi. You had negotiated a promotion in the contract after the six month to one year mark, so I decided to promote you now. And before you start with ‘what will people think’, I discussed the reorg with HR and the board who are in agreement. In fact, they suggested your name before I even said anything. Khushi, you have worked hard for this, and we want to recognize you because you truly deserve this. What do you think? Are you ready to take on this challenge?”

Stunned speechless, I can only stare at him, not knowing what to say.  

Is this really happening?

How can I turn down this opportunity when I know deep down that I deserve it?

In the past six months, I have most definitely proven myself, and built relationships within the company. It’s earned, and not handed to me. I know that. And now, to be recognized for it feels good, really good.

“I would be a fool to turn it down, Mr. Raizada. This is an exciting, and a challenging opportunity. One that I am honored to be selected for. Thank you so much, and of course, I accept the challenge.” I smile extending my hand forward, which he grasps, giving it a firm shake.

“Congratulations on a well deserved promotion! I know you will excel in your new role.” He squeezes my hand before letting it go, and then hands me the file he was looking at when I walked in.

“Here is you promotion letter with your new salary and bonus structure, along with the revised contract. You can take your time reading it over, and make sure it’s all aligned before signing it, and handing it back to HR.”

I take the file from his hand, and then open it. As I take a quick glance at the letter, my eyes widen taking in the figures, and I look up at him shocked.

“Arnav, what is this?”

“That’s the market value for this position, and I had nothing to do with it. HR made the recommendation, and I was very pleased to approve it. Now you owe me a treat tonight after this hefty raise. You can stop blushing, because I was talking about you taking me out to dinner. Though I don’t mind if you treat me to some meetha later…”  He says giving me an audacious wink. I gasp, glaring at him playfully, and watch as he stands up, then walks over to me. “Sweetheart, will you treat me to dinner and dessert tonight?”  

Even after all these months, he can instantly make me flush with his words, from just being close to me. He pulls me into his arms, and I wrap my arms around him.

“Congratulations, Khushi!  I am so proud of you.” He pulls away, and then leans down kissing me gently.

“Thank you for believing in me to recruit me for AR, and now, this new opportunity.”

“You did this on your own, so there is no need to thank me. In fact I need to thank you for all that you have done since joining AR. Should we get back to work, so we can finally have an evening out, just the two of us?”

“It has been a long time hasn’t it?  Let’s plan to wrap up around five o’clock if that works for you. I can meet you at the penthouse.”

“That sounds like a plan. Where would you like to go to celebrate? I can have Lavanya make the reservations.”

“Arnav, there is no need to bother her,  I can make them. She is in the midst of transitioning onto my team. Oh, which reminds me, La and I interviewed a few candidates for her replacement, and it looks like there are a couple of prospects. I have asked her to set-up time for you to meet with them next week, then you can choose who is worthy of being your new assistant.”

He shakes his head walking back to his chair, and I can’t help but chuckle knowing he is not happy about La moving to another position on the Marketing team.

“I don’t need to meet them, you both just pick someone, I trust you both to know who will work out for me. Or I can take your assistant like you took mine. After all she worked out fine when Lavanya was out for three weeks during her wedding and honeymoon. What do you think about that idea?” He crosses his arms across his chest in a challenge, but I shake my head.

“First of all I did not take her from you. She expressed an interest in a career change. How can you stop her? I think she will be an asset to the team based on some of the work I have seen from her this week. So it works out for your benefit. And, we have had this discussion already, my assistant is not going to work out for you in the long run. You do realize that she is intimidated by you.  Don’t worry we will find you someone that you will be happy with, let’s hope they don’t run away.”

“What the heck is that supposed to mean?” He yells out.

I grin grabbing my things from the table, and start walking away.

“You know what that means ASR. See you later baby!” I throw him a flying kiss before walking out of his office.

After leaving his office, my excitement for the promotion holds no bounds as I jump up screaming in glee in my office behind closed doors. I know I should have shown some of this excitement in his office, but I wanted to wait till later tonight when I have him as my boyfriend versus my boss.

As much as I want to share this news with my parents right now, I know it’s late so I decide to call them later tonight. Maybe I can Skype with Arnav, as it has been a while since he has talked to them given our hectic schedules.

The last three months have flown by with so much happening around us, which has put a hold on moving our relationship further.  This was a decision both Arnav and I made together.

The main reason being the newest member of the family arriving six weeks early. Anjali went into labor one week after her Godh Bharai with complications due to her high risk pregnancy. It was a frightening, and nerve-wracking experience as the doctors had to do an emergency C-section.   

I smile glancing at the wallpaper on my phone, which is a photo of Arnav and I holding the baby who has become the center of our world the last three months.

Aditya Manohar Jha, the Rajkumar of the family came earlier than expected. But we are grateful to Devi Maiya he and Anjali are doing fine now. Since he was a premature baby with respiratory complications, he stayed in the hospital for an extra four weeks till he was able to breath on his own. That was an emotional time for the family, especially Anjali, who was devastated at not being able to have her baby boy with her.  It was heartbreaking to not be able to do anything for Aditya, seeing him helpless in the hospital everyday.  

Arnav and I had shifted to the house after the baby was born until last week to be close by. With everything going on, not to mention things picking up aggressively at AR, he and I have had barely any time for one and other the last three months.

And in the midst of it all, NK and Lavanya got married as scheduled since Anjali insisted they not postpone the wedding.  I had stayed back with her and the baby, as everyone attended the functions, much to their reluctance. Especially Arnav who also wanted to stay back with us. She had confided in me when we were alone about feeling guilty for holding Arnav and I back from making things official with our relationship.

How can Arnav and I even think about us with everything going on?

There is no way anything was happening until she and the baby were healthy and fit to move around. I had joked with her that I was going to make her do all the work since she had become lazy during her pregnancy.  

But now that things are back to normal, and we are back home in the city, it’s time for Arnav to start connecting with my parents once again. Thankfully my parents have been supportive throughout this, which has made it easy to focus on Arnav’s family and work.  

My father is warming up to Arnav since the last few conversations they have had. But I know there is still some hesitation from him. Hopefully over time, it will change.

Hearing the meeting alert on my phone, I decide to get myself busy with work so I can finally spend some quality time with Arnav tonight.

When I am finally done for the day, I notice it’s after five o’clock as I close my office door. But looking over at his closed door, I frown that he’s still working.

A few moments later when I walk inside the Penthouse, I smile hearing Arnav’s voice coming from the living room, and I make my way there to find him talking on the phone looking down at the park. His sleeves are rolled up, with his suit jacket, and tie tossed on the sofa. I also spot his laptop on the table, which makes me wonder when did he come home. Even though we work in the same office, there are times when I barely see him throughout the day due to different schedules and workload.

I walk up behind him wrapping my arms around his shoulders, and bury my face in his back.

“Yeah Di, she just got here. Hold on, and I will give her the phone.” I pull away, and he smiles, handing me the phone.

“Hi Anjali!  How is my little boyfriend doing today? I am missing my Chotu bachu so much. And why haven’t you sent me any new pictures from the last two days? Not fair, just because I am not there anymore you have forgotten about me!” My eyes follow Arnav as he makes his way towards the sofa taking his laptop, and sits down to continue to work. But something seems to be off.

What could have happened?

He was perfectly fine when we met earlier this afternoon.  I am brought out of my thoughts hearing Anjali’s voice.  

“Your boyfriend is doing fine, and we are all missing you very much. This house is not the same without you. I guess we became selfish having you here, but now it’s time for you both to spend some time together. Of course that is, if you two can stop being workaholics. Oh! Arnav just told me the good news.  Congratulations on your promotion! I am soooooo happy for you. Did you tell uncle and auntie yet? Tell me how excited are you?”

“Thank you, Anjali. I haven’t told Amma and Babuji, since it was late and I didn’t want to disturb them. Though, I will call them later tonight. I can’t even describe how thrilled I am… it feels surreal, as if it’s a dream. I am so happy that I feel like screaming.”  

Both of us start laughing, and then talk for a few minutes about Aditya before she gives the phone to Nani and Payal. Both of them congratulate me about the promotion, and they give me an update on Anjali. I feel content hearing everything is going well, making me feel less guilty coming back here.  The four of us have become very close during my stay there, so not seeing them the past few days, I have missed them.  

After I hang up, I look over at Arnav with his typical ASR expression, furiously typing away on his laptop.

“It looks like we are not going out tonight…” I murmur waiting for him to respond, standing over him for a moment. But he doesn’t say anything and continues typing. I take a deep breath knowing it’s best to leave him alone for now, and slowly walk towards our bedroom.

A moment later, I scream as he comes rushing behind me, and pulls me by waist before lifting me up in his arms.

“Arnav!  What are you doing?  First you ignore me, and now this.”

He kisses me, then proceeds to walk into the master suite.

“Sorry sweetheart, I had to deal with an issue, but promise now I am all yours.  Where would the new COO of AR Corporation like to go for dinner tonight?”

He goes towards the bed and places me down in the middle, and then lies next to me.

“How about Tao? I made a reservation to sit upstairs away from the noise. It’s a beautiful fall day outside so maybe we can walk to the restaurant since it’s close by.” I turn to my side to face him, and caress his face, which is showing signs of fatigue.

“Sure, that works.  How about we walk through the park? I know how much you have missed it.”

“Really? That would be perfect! And, since I am in the best of moods, I suggest we have some meetha… like in now, and again, later.” His gaze darkens immediately, and he leans down softly kissing me.

“Now that is a brilliant idea, dessert before dinner.”

Before I can say anything, he runs his finger on my lips before kissing me again. But this time, it’s deeper. All that matters to me in that moment is to have him close to me, as my body craves for him. I wind my hands around his neck pulling him closer, deepening the kiss as our tongues collide.

He moans, sliding my blouse out of my skirt then molding my breast in his hand squeezing them tightly as I arch up closer to him.

The intensity in his gaze when he pulls away tells me he wants me as badly as I want him. His eyes widen when my hands make their way to his belt pulling his shirt out. I know he wasn’t expecting us to take it further right now, but all I know is that I need him now.

I smile at him which immediately changes to frustration as I struggle to undo his buttons, but he takes over the task with ease and finesse.

In matter of seconds our clothes are discarded, our lips locked together in a passionate kiss as our hands caress the other feverishly. He pulls away leaving a heated trail down my neck to my chest with sensual kisses arousing me with warmth before he enters me.

I moan out his name feeling him inside of me, and clasp my legs around his thighs as we continue to move together slowly which intensifies as we reach the depths of passion becoming one.  

I reach my peak hard before him bursting into flames, with him finding his release shortly after he groans out my name.

He collapses onto me, and I securely hold onto him tight never wanting to let go as we steady our breathing.  When I look up his gaze is fixed on mine, and he smiles pushing my hair away from my face.

“Now that was an amazing surprise.”

I place my hands on his face pulling him closer to place a gentle kiss on his lips.

“It certainly was.” I whisper. “But now we need to hurry up and get ready, if we want to walk through the park before dinner. Let’s go Mr. Raizada!”

He gets off of me, and hands me his shirt, while he slides on his boxers.

“You do realize that you are becoming bossy lately?”

I get off the bed, walking up to him, then whisper inside his ear.   

“Waise haq hai mera, tum pe, so get used it.”

The corner of his mouth curves up in an amused smile.

“Yes Madam, I am at your service day or night.” He bows dramatically, and we both burst into laughter before proceeding to get ready for our dinner date.

A few minutes later, we walk hand in hand through the park in companionable silence to the restaurant. But I can sense he is distracted.

“The trees look so beautiful with the changing colors. I think fall is my favorite season here, the weather is pleasant and the park looks so colorful.”

“Actually I was admiring that earlier when I was talking to Di. By the way, now that it’s going to get cold, you need to get some warmer clothes. I noticed in your closet this morning at the apartment, you barely have anything.”

“I know, Anjali mentioned that to me as well.  She said last winter was brutal with the snow and freezing cold temperature. But you know how busy it has been… oh, I have an idea, what if we go shopping this weekend since we’re staying in the city?  Unless you had other plans?”

I feel him tense up slightly, and he looks down at me.  There’s something he wants to say, but he’s hesitating.

“What is it, baby?  Is something wrong?”

“Khushi…”

I  take a deep breath to hide my irritation when we get interrupted by his phone. He sighs, looking at the caller ID.

“Sorry Sweetheart, I need to take this. It’s the lawyer regarding a contract I asked to be put together for the merger which I need ready by first thing tomorrow.” I nod, and then he gets on the phone as we walk through the park towards the restaurant.

For the first time in our relationship, I am annoyed that his work is coming in the way while we are trying to spend some time together.  

“Revise those changes, and email me the final version tonight. I will be back home in a few hours.”

I watch as he puts his phone away in his pocket, and then takes my hand in his. We exit the park, neither one of us say anything as we maneuver through the congested streets of New York City. I can feel his eyes searching for mine when we stop at a traffic signal, but I look straight ahead.

It’s only when we enter the restaurant my mood changes for the better.

Arnav and I have dined at Tao before, which is an upscale Asian fusion restaurant. The fact they will alter the taste to your liking makes it a delight to enjoy the food, not to mention the lively environment.

The ambiance is chic at the Midtown location decorated with dark colors with an Asian theme. The spotlight of the restaurant is a sixteen foot Buddha which floats above a reflecting pool of water, and can be seen from anywhere you are seated.

The hostess leads us to the second level in a quiet area in the corner overlooking the first floor. Once we are seated, Arnav looks at the drink menu, while I look at the food menu. I can’t help but laugh, as I watch him intently looking at it.

“May I ask what is so funny?”  He asks still looking down at the menu.

“You are looking at that menu, as if the drink was going to come out of it. It looks like someone needs a drink.”

“As a matter of fact, yes I need a drink… preferably something strong. Where is the damn waiter?  Should I order us Wine or Sake?  You mentioned you wanted to try one last time, which one was it?” I stare at him as he waits for me to answer, and I shake my head.

“I am not drinking tonight, so you can order whatever you prefer. I know what I want to eat, so if you are going to have your usual we can place our order for dinner as well.”

“Why wouldn’t you have a drink today?  You always have one whenever we go out to eat. And have you forgotten we are here to celebrate your promotion?”

“I would like to Skype my parents when we get back home so I’d rather not. But you can feel free to drink.”

He laughs.

“Since when did you get buzzed over one drink?”

He stops, when the waiter comes over for our order.

“Didn’t I say I wasn’t drinking tonight? Why would you order me something?” I say once the waiter walks away.

He reaches out for my hand on the table.

“Khushi, I want us to enjoy our time together and celebrate your promotion.  Can we just focus on that right now? We can talk about everything else after we get home. Please.”

I nod, placing my hand over his, aware he is right. There’s no need to get into whatever it may be at dinner, it can wait.

We spend the next couple of hours just relaxing and enjoying each other’s company, along with devouring a delicious dinner.  And, I find myself caving in having a couple of glasses of wine which are paired perfectly with our food by him.

I find myself blushing often as my flirtatious Arnav makes an appearance throughout the evening. The slight touches, and the intense looks from him are enough to send shivers down my spine, even after all these months being together with him.  

When we walk out of the restaurant, Mohan is outside waiting for us in the car to take us back to the Penthouse.

“Would you mind calling your parents after we talk? I would like to talk to them as well, but I need to tell you something before calling them.” Those are the first words I hear from him once we are in the bedroom.

“Yes we call them after, in fact I want you there with me when I tell them about my promotion. Please tell me what has been bothering you.”   

We both sit down on the couch, and I wait anxiously for him to say something as I hold his hand.

“I need to leave for Delhi this weekend for a few weeks.” He says softly, staring at our entwined hands. I look at him surprised, with mixed feelings about him going away.

“Okay, I guess it was inevitable since you have been putting off your visit. I am assuming it has to do with the merger that Mamaji was trying to handle. Is that all that has you preoccupied?”

“Yes, things are not looking well, so I need to physically be there to clean up the mess. I have been trying to handle it from here, since we had planned to go to Delhi together in the end of December. But it can’t wait, I need to leave right away. I have been trying to figure out how to take you with me, but that’s not possible either. I need you, and Aakash to handle the takeover of Symphony Group in my absence. They’re relocating into our space next week.”

I know he has been stressed about the issues in Delhi. Now it makes sense why he has been so bothered, and I don’t want to add to it.  

But, how will I survive without him for a few weeks?

“Baby, I understand you need to go. You don’t need to worry about anything here, Aakash and I will handle things. I know we wanted to go together, but it’s fine. You can meet my parents without me, unless you are scared of Babuji.”

He smiles shaking his head.

“The daughter scares me more than the father… ouch that hurts when you pinch me like that! I can’t wait to complain to your mother about how you physically torture me.”

“Good, it was meant to hurt, and if you say anything to her, I will torture you more by withholding meetha from you.”

“Please don’t remind me, what will I do without it?  The bigger question… how will I sleep at nights without you next to me?”

“What about me being here all alone? I am going to miss you so much.” I wrap my arm in his, and put my head on his shoulder. He places a kiss on top of my head.

“Me too, Sweetheart. I already talked to Di about this today. I want you to go stay with her and Nani when I am away. You can commute with Aakash or use Mohan. I  rather not have you stay here or the apartment by yourself. Will you please do that for me so I am not worried about you?”

I look up at him, and take a deep breath to fight back the tears.

“Yes, I will go stay with them if that will make you happy. It will be nice to be with them again, after spending the last few months there. And, I get to be with my Chotu Bachu. He is so cute, just like his Chote Mamu.” I wink at him and pinch his cheeks.

“Oh really… tell me Khushi, am I really Chote?”

I place my hand on my cheek feeling them burn hearing his question, then I pull them away as he stares at me.

“There is nothing little about it.” I whisper, before making a dash towards the bathroom, hearing his husky laughter behind me.

How does this man have the power to make me shy and bold in matter of seconds?

An hour later, we are in Arnav’s study sitting side by side at his desk, waiting for my parents to video call us.  

I look over at him, feeling his hand on my leg, which reminds me to tell him about the ground rules we have agreed upon before they call.  

“Arnav, please behave while we are talking to them, and keep your hands to yourself.” He looks at me incredulously shaking his head. “And act like you are interested in the conversation. This will help build up your social skills. Also, give me my sautan…”

“Are you kidding me, Khushi? I don’t understand why you always insist on repeating the same rules prior to speaking with your parents. What if I refuse to follow some of them?”

“Then you know what I am capable of. Remember you are leaving for Delhi in two days…” I look at the screen hearing the video call, then look back at him.

“Unbelievable!”  He mumbles before handing me his phone.

I smirk at my victory taking my sautan from his hand, before accepting the call.

My parents appear on the screen, and like the previous time when Arnav has accompanied me on the call, it starts out a bit awkward.

“Hi Bitiya and Arnav!”  

My mother starts off with a big smile, and waves to us.  I know seeing us together makes her happy and at peace that I have him by my side. Before I can say anything, I am shocked hearing Arnav’s voice. Looks like the social skills lecture has paid off, and I bite my lip to keep myself from laughing.

“Hello Auntie and Uncle. Sorry for asking you to call so early, but Khushi has news to share with you both.”

“Khushi, what happened? Sab theek hai?”  

“Babuji, did you take panicking lessons from Amma?” I giggle, but stop when Arnav nudges me.

“I had to take her place since she has stopped panicking for a couple of months now.”  He laughs, while my mother glares at him.

“When my Bitiya is happy, then there is no need for me to panic. Kyun Arnav Bitwa?”

“Yes Auntie, and today, she is very happy.”

I can’t help smile seeing both of them conversing, and then I look over at my father. I can see him warming up as he smiles looking at the both of them.

Maybe him going to Delhi will help build and strengthen their relationship.  

I am bought out of my reverie feeling Arnav’s hand on my shoulders. He raises a questioning eyebrow, and I smile at him taking his hand in mine before I turn to my parents to tell them the big news.

“Babuji, remember the six month to one year targets I had added to my contract, which you thought was risky?”

“Yes, I remember. It’s almost six months now isn’t it, so how off are you meeting your goals? I wish you would have listened to me, and not added the clause in there.”

“First Arnav and now you too, well guess what?  I have exceeded my goal…”

“By twenty-three percent to be exact.” Arnav adds proudly, and urges me to continue.

“And, now your daughter is the Chief Operating Officer for the US division. I received my promotion today. My hard work the last six months, was recognized not just by Arnav who has been my biggest supporter but the company as well. Can you believe it? I did it!”

“Congratulations Bitiya! That is such great news! I pray to Devi Maiya to always keep you this happy.”  My mother says smiling as tears trail down her cheeks.

“Garima, my daughter proved me wrong yet again.And, I couldn’t be happier! She accomplished what she set out to achieve. Anything is possible if you have the drive and ambition. I am very proud of you Khushi. Not many women reach the level you have at such a young age. Congratulations my Titaliya!”

“Thank you so much Amma and Babuji.  I love you both and I wish you were here with me…”

I stop mid way seeing tears in my parents eyes, and I can’t hold back my own tears. My parents mean everything to me, since we have always only had each other. They have been my support when I had a rough year. So now when I have everything I have ever dreamt of, they’re not with me to share my happiness. I feel tears streaming down my face, as Arnav pulls me in his arms, attempting to calm me down rubbing my back.

“Khushi… Khushi… shhh… please stop crying. I promise you will be with them soon. Look at how happy they are, isn’t that what you wanted. You don’t want them to be upset seeing you this way, do you?”

“Titaliya, why are you crying like those women in the serials your Amma watches? Arnav, forget her being the COO at AR. I think you should relocate to Mumbai, and she can start a new career. Then I will watch her everyday on the television with my popcorn.”

“That’s a really good idea, Uncle. Make sure you have extra for me, so we can sit together to watch the drama.”

“Pakka, I will.”  My father says.

I look up at Arnav, and frown at him as he wipes my tears. Seeing how close we are in front my parents, I pull away.

“Both of you leave my Bitiya alone. She is beautiful. If she wanted to be an actress, I guarantee she would get the lead role.”

“Amma, what are you saying?”  

We instantly start laughing lightening the mood. My heart warms up watching the three people I love happily talking to one another.  

What more can I ask for right now?

We spend the next few minutes discussing my new position, along with Arnav’s family, more so Anjali and Aditya.

“Uncle, Auntie, I am coming to Delhi this weekend for a few weeks. There is some urgent work I need to attend which cannot be delayed. Unfortunately, Khushi has to stay back to take care of things here. But I was hoping we can meet while I am there.”

“Of course, Arnav. We understand about Khushi not coming, especially with her new position. You just let us know your schedule, and we will arrange something.”

“Arnav Bitwa, you will have to come over for dinner. I can make you Khushi’s favorite dish.”

“Aloo Puri right? She talks about it all the time, that yours is the best. I would love to try it. Once I arrive there, I will reach out to you.”

My mother’s smile widens, and then she nods.  

How I wish I could be there as well.

After a few minutes we say our goodbyes, which has me smiling.  I look over at Arnav, who looks relieved that the call is over.

“Not bad Mr. Raizada, you had them in the palm of your hands today. I can only imagine the outcome once you meet them during your visit.” I say cheekily.

“I agree that went well. It should be interesting meeting them face to face, and that too without you. Do you want to come with me? Maybe we can try to work something out. I saw how upset you were missing them.”

“I appreciate the offer, but you know it’s not possible for me to go at this time.  But, I will take no excuses when I drag you back with me at the end of December.”

“Promise, no excuses; it will be my pleasure to take you back to see your parents. Now it’s time for bed, you look tired and the next couple of days will be busy. We need to get you prepared as you take on your new role before I leave.”

“Under one condition, only if you come to bed with me now as well. I know you were planning on working right now, but I want to sleep, and wake up in your arms the next couple of nights you are here. Please…”  I say pouting my lips.

“You know I can’t say no when you do that. But I have to work… you know what, it can wait.  But what I have in mind looking at those luscious lips can’t!”

He shifts closer to me, and I notice his gaze is darkened.

“Arnav…” I blush, and shake my head moving away from him. But he grabs a hold of hand, pulling me towards him.

“You can’t back away after inviting me to bed. We have two nights together before I leave, so let’s use it wisely.  Shall we?” He whispers into my ears.

“Yes, we shall”

The next couple of days and nights, Arnav and I take full advantage of our time together.  

While our nights are filled with passion and desire, trying to make up for the time we will be apart. My body craves for this man, and I brazenly take everything he offers me, returning back with equal measure.

During the day, we get involved with work as he and I prepare for his leave.  He fills me in on my new responsibilities, and leaves me surprised with the scope he has me taking over. I wasn’t expecting him to give me control on certain aspects of the business that is being handed over. When I express my concerns, he reassures me that he will be by my side to mentor me. His faith in my abilities, and having his guidance is all I need to be successful in my new role.   

Arnav and I outline the new reporting structure together for my group. After which he makes the formal announcement about my promotion and new organizational structure during his executive staff meeting. I am overwhelmed with the positive response, and support I receive from everyone.  

On his last day in the office, Arnav meets with Aakash and I for the takeover he wants us to handle in his absence.

“Khushi, I know you haven’t been involved with the Symphony Group acquisition, but in my absence and your new role, I need you and Aakash to handle onboarding when they arrive next week.”

“Aman and I can work with you to get you up to speed, since we have been working closely with them.The software product we are acquiring from them is going to be very beneficial to us. But I will warn you, they have some incompetent people on the team. You will see during our working sessions next week.” Aakash states.

“During those sessions, I need you to make an assessment on what makes sense for the company. I would like to take the product, and keep some of the staff then eliminate who we don’t need. But I will leave that up to you Khushi.  It’s your show now.”

I look over at Arnav who smiles confidently at me as he makes that statement.

“I do love to slice and dice companies, so this should be fun.” I reply back with a smirk.

“Excellent! Looks like you guys can take care of things here, while I figure out the mess in Delhi.”

Arnav takes me to Anjali’s place Saturday afternoon, before he has to leave for Delhi later that evening. While I am happy to be here with everyone, but part of me wants to go back to the city and not let him go. Saying goodbye to him turns out harder than I had imagined.

“Baby, why can’t I come drop you off to the airport?” I whine, going into his arms when we are upstairs in my room.

He wraps his arms around me, and kisses my forehead.

“If you are there, then it will make it harder for me to go. Didn’t we already discuss this? How about one last kiss before we go back downstairs, and I need to leave?”

I fight back the tears, putting a faint smile on my face for him. He brings his lips closer to mine, and I lean up gently caressing his lips with mine. We start out the kiss slow which quickly turns deep, passionate as we hold onto each other tightly.

As I feel the stroke of his tongue, I run my hands in his hair pulling him close losing control with his arms feverishly stroking my back.

I moan as he slows down the kiss, and pulls away. We stare at each other for a long moment, breathing heavily. This is it, our last intimate moment.  

“Sweetheart, I love you. Make sure you take care of everyone, but most importantly yourself. I will try to come back as soon as I can.”

“Me too, Arnav. And, I will be waiting for you to come back to me.”

Before he leaves, he instructs Anjali and Nani to watch over me. And I can’t help smile when he instructs Aakash with the same while we are at the office.  Seeing his care for me, warms my heart and I brace myself for the long wait to have him back with me again.

After the emotional goodbye, I keep myself occupied with Aditya, who gives me a reason to keep a smile on face. Everyone else makes an effort to keep me engaged with something or another, which I welcome to keep my mind diverted.

But even with everyone around, the weekend goes by painfully slowly, and I welcome when Monday morning arrives walking into the office, as crazy as that sounds. Being back here makes me feel closer to Arnav.

My morning is extremely busy with meetings, with my existing team and then HR as we finalize some things for AR to send over for Arnav’s approval.

Hearing a knock at my door, I look up to see Aakash.

“Khushi, I am headed to the Executive Conference room for our kick-off meeting with Symphony.  I let them have the morning to get settled into their space. Feel free to join when you are ready.”

“Sure, I will be there in five minutes.  I just need to send some information to Arnav that Finance sent regarding the budget.”

Once he leaves, I quickly wrap up a few things knowing that I will be in meetings all afternoon.  

As I am making my way out of my office, I smile looking at the caller ID on my phone and pick up the incoming call.

“Hi Sweetheart!”  I hear Arnav before I can say anything.

“Hi! I hope you are back home and not in the office.”

“Yes Madam, I am home.  Your email just came through so I figured I would call.”

“I am actually going into the Symphony meeting right now for a few hours, and by the time I am done you will be sleeping. But call me when you wake up, theek hai?”

“Oh right, I forgot about that meeting. I will let you go and deal with them. A couple of them are a handful, but I know you can handle them. Best of luck!.”

“Why, thank you Mr. Raizada!  Good night, and sweet meetha dreams, my love.”

“They always are with you in them.”  

A few minutes later, as I approach the conference room, I take a deep breath to get back into work mode. I look through the glass wall and my heart stops beating while my body freezes in place seeing a familiar face. One I had pushed aside…

How can this be possible?

“Sameer…”

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