Gently scrubbing haldi off her cheeks and arms, she blushed imagining how his fingers were all over body smearing the aromatic yellow paste, wondering how he knows her desires before even saying a word. Ever since they ended the session abruptly her mind kept racing thinking about all their encounters on the bed. She never felt so desperate for him as much as she did that moment. Halting everything she is doing, she simply stood under the shower and closed her eyes to get control over her dirty thoughts. The way he tortured her sweetly with his kisses and his lips flashed infront of her closed lids. She opened her eyes dismayed by the change in her thoughts filled with nothing but his passionate kisses and lustful touches. She hurriedly stepped out of the shower to engage herself something more productive to stop thinking all these.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sir, here is your complete itinerary. Everything is all set. If you could let me know what time you will reach the airport, I will inform Mark.
I am thinking close to midnight, right after the wedding. Ask Mark and crew to be all ready and wait for us. I dont want any delays.
Yes Sir.
Everything all set at Nadi?
Yes Sir. I have given instructions to Mark. He will handle everything there.
And the baggage?
Sir, Raghu is going to hand over the baggage to Mark at 8.
And what about the dress from Studio?
Sir, Its all packed well. Raghu is on his way to pick it up.
Thats most important. I do not want to see even a thread ruptured. Handle with care.
Yes Sir.
Run a final check on everything. Nothing should go wrong.
Sure Sir.
Anything else? Arnav asked going through the travel papers.
Happy Honeymoon Sir!
Arnav raised his eyebrow and looked at him sternly.
Uhh...I, I will take your leave.
Arnav continued looking at the papers acknowledging Aman with a subtle nod.
As Aman was about to leave, Arnav prompted in his growling voice,Remember absolutely no calls after we board.
Yes Sir.
I will try to check with you as I find time.
Yes Sir.
You may leave and ... Thank You!
Sir?
I said GO. Arnav walked away leaving Aman shocked. Another thanks?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Everybody is going around crazily checking the last min details. Arnav rushed to Akash when he got frantic call ranting about his wedding jitters.
Bro, why do people need to marry. We were better off in living relation. This whole thing is sucking me out.
Relax Akash. You are acting like Bride. Behave like groom.
Do you think Fatty is also going through the same thing?
Possible! Arnav said reading through the emails.
Bro, tell me what happens after marriage? He asked nervously.
Arnav looked at Akash raising his eyebrows. Normally people will celebrate their first night. How will you know? You followed all rituals in reverse order. Arnav chuckled looking at Akash puppy face.
Thats already done at our end. What else will happen?
W.e.l.l. Your parents dont know so they might arrange for one.
Nahi yaar, apart from first night. How do they behave after marriage? DO they really get bossy?
If you behave like an a*s, I am sure Payal will not leave a chance to spank you.
Hehehe I love spanks.
Arnav rolled his eyes. Sudhar ja...Dump your pervert brain somewhere. You are graduating to parenthood. Start acting like one. He said before picking up Khushi's call.
Arnav, where is that duffer Akash? Khushi barked as soon as he answered.
Why did you call me if you wanna talk to Akash? A possessive husband on the roll!!!
Arnav I am not able to reach his cell. I tried several times.
Arnav sensed Khushi's voice shivering nervously.
Khushi calm down. First take deep breath and tell me what happened.
Listen, Payal just threw up. We managed saying marriage jitters but she is very scared. Wedding is in 2 hrs and I am afraid if she will be OK till then.
Let me talk to the doctor.
No wait, Akash has pills. That duffer forgot to give today's dose. Can you get it? She will be alright if she takes it.
Do you have Payal medication? Arnav turned to Akash and enquired.
Oh shoot. Yes. Akash got up to dig in for his wallet carefully tucked in his sherwani.
Arnav gave him kick on his leg angrily. Cant you do one task properly?
Kya Hua? Did she throw up? Akash asked worriedly.
Khushi give the phone to Payal. Akash wants to talk.
No Arnav, she is rounded by all elders. Get the medicine ASAP and tell Akash nothing to worry.
Arnie, I will come with you. As Akash was about to go with Arnav, his parents came to check on him to tie Sehra and get prepared for baraat. Arnav sighed him that he will handle and rushed to Payal's room.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Arnav mentally thanked Khushi for making it easy for him to cross the hallway of women who were bragging about the jewels as if there is nothing important than that. Arnav knocked on the door and Khushi opened the door. She swiftly pulled him in and craned her neck out to see if anyone is coming.
Fatty, How are you feeling now? Arnav went and sat beside her.
Before Payal could answer, Khushi interrupted. Arnav first let her take the pill. She grabbed the medicine pack and tried to open the pack with her hands shivering. He stood up and caught hold of her palms.
Relax. Why are you so tensed?
Arn..
Shhh. Sit down. He took the pill and gave it to Payal. While Payal was taking medication, he turned to Khushi and gave her a glass of water, and He took the seat next to Khushi and held her hand as she shivered nervously..
Are you OK?
Khushi nodded settling against the chair.
Fatty, do you want me to call doctor? He asked holding Khushi's hand.
No, I think I will be OK in 20mins. Thanks Arnie.
Why the hell Akash has your pills? Arent you suppose to carry?
I was afraid if I will get caught..So....Payal felt embarrassed and upset for being a bit careless about it.
Sensing her mood, Khushi got up and hugged her. Its OK yaar. Hota hai! She said giving warning looks to Arnav.
Cookie, can you keep this pills in your handbag. I dont want anyone to find it.
Sure. Khushi took the pills and while keeping it in her bag. She remembered her own medication.
Look, I was giving you lecture, mein khud bhool gayi. She swallowed her medication while Arnav looked at her all confused. When she was taking the medication with water, the pack slipped through her hands and fell on Payal's lap and she picked it up to see what it is.
Meanwhile impatient Arnav barked on her rushing to her in one strode,Khushi whats wrong? Are you not feeling well? He started checking her throat and forehead for temperature.
Oh this is just for my acne. Nothing to worry. She let out nervous smile before gulping water.
But Cookie, these are contraceptive pills. Payal said looking at the pack while Arnav looked shocked at Khushi.
Contraceptive pills? Arnav asked holding Khushi'e elbow.
Birth control pills. Payal clarified with smile leaving Arnav shocked.
Feeling embarassed, Khushi for a split second bit her tongue and opened her nervously closed eyes to meet his piercing gaze.
I was having blemishes on my face for last one month. So my doctor put me on these pills for 3 months.
Arnav grabbed her elbow and pulled her to the side away from Payal. Are you sure you are not hiding anything? I mean who will prescribe these pills for face? He asked worriedly.
Are you doubting me?
Khu..
What do you wanna hear? That I am using these to run an affair behind your back. She said teasingly.
He gripped her elbow tightly and growled, Dont you ever talk sh*t like that to me! I was just trying to find if you were having any other problem.
Arnav, I am just joking.
Well sorry to disappoint you, I didnt find it funny. He shrugged her hand and walked out angrily.
Khushi turned around and looked at Payal, Do you really have to use that word infront of him?
How do I know? You should have told me. Payal teased.
Now it will take me ages to convince him.
I dont think so, not if you are taking it for...
No Ma'm. I wasnt taking it for any contraceptive benefits. Genuinely for last one month my hormones got whacked up and my skin was breaking out causing blemishes. So I am put on 3 month medication. Clear or anymore questions? She said rolling her eyes and grabbing her bag away from Payal.
Last one month? Looks like your hormones are acting up weird ever since you met Arnav. Payal fluttered her lashes giggling hard.
Khushi creased her forehead and seriously gave it thought. Payal was right, Khushi went to meet her GYN to find the reason behind the sudden emerge of pimples on her face.
By the way people say that, your hormones act up weird if you drool too much on anything or anyone. Payal giggled thoroughly enjoying the blush on Khushi's face.
Khushi threw pillow on Payal, Shut Up. You already created hurricane in his brain. Now I have to bear the consequences.
Such consequences always turn out to your advantage. Payal giggled further embarrassing Khushi. Waise Cookie, is everything done?
What do you mean by everything? Khushi turned away and tried to hide her unstoppable wide grin.
Wahi...ahem ahem...
Thats none of your business. Khushi smiled taking her clothes to get ready.
Aww, bathana...dont give attitude... Payal persisted.
No Ma'm. You are not getting any inside details. She winked at her. I am going to get ready. You be ready. Beautician is on her way. Khushi rushed to bathroom to avoid Payal's banter. She pulled her phone out and called Arnav. But he didnt pick up. Idiot!!! Possessive Soul. She smiled. Buckle Up Khushi, another rough night ahead.
She texted, Sowwiieee. I didnt mean it that way.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Arnav came out the shower drying his hair and noticed several text messages from Khushi. He read each one of them but didnt relent to her SMS pleas. He remained firm and fumed recalling the whole conversation. He threw the towel wondering who takes birth control pills for skin problems. He just couldnt connect the dots and wondered if she preparing for their night. A blushing smile appeared on his lips thinking his wife is way too advanced if what he is thinking is true. Then came another SMS,
Sowwiiieee...How many times more do I have to say?
He smiled imagining her pout. Drama queen! He muttered and got dressed himself to the perfection in his indowestern Black Suit.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Has your pati parmeshwar cooled down?
Do you think he will that soon? He didnt reply to any of my messages. Khushi pouted sadly, fixing Payal's lehenga. Looking at it carefully, Khushi screamed, Payal, this is not your lehenga.
What?
What are you wearing? This is not your lehenga. I have seen it in the studio.
Relax, I changed my mind. I liked this better than that. Payal spoke convincingly.
Are you nuts? That one was out of the world. Have you seen it properly?
No thanks. Akash selected this one from Arnie's collection. So I will be wearing this.
But Payal, he worked so hard for that piece.
Payal felt bad for hiding it from Khushi and cursed Arnav for making her bad person. She spoke in very convincing tone. It was too heavy for me Cookie. So, I hope you...
No no, thats all right. I understand. Khushi didnt argue further but felt a bit sad that Arnav worked so hard for that master piece only to be rejected. She wondered why Arnav didnt say anything about it to her.
Payal bitiya, Baraat is here. Are you ready? Payal's mom rushed inside looking nothing less than a wreck.
Amma, you are talking as if they are coming from somewhere else. Calm down!
Her mom sat next to her and fondly hugged her. I have never seen a bride who is so relaxed. Damaadji is more tensed than you. Payal's mom teased her and they both shared few mom-daughter emotional moments.
Khushi remembered Garima who did the same thing before Khushi was all ready to become Arnav's. Break it or Make it, its all in your hands, She remembered her mother's words and got emotional thinking how far they came in the relation.
Khushi beta, can you please be with her. I need to go to welcome Damaadji.
Ofcourse Aunty. Dont worry.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Arnav walked into Akash room to accompany him to Milani and was pretty impressed with his buddy who looked no less than a king.
Dressed in gold and red sherwani, beautifully adorned with rubis and silk threads, Akash looked very charming.
Arnav walked over to his friend with huge happy smile and said adjusting his shoulders, You are looking like jewellery shop.
Are you kidding me? Is that what you say NOW?
Naa, you look just fine, in fact more than fine.
You think Payal will like it? Akash asked in his usual curious tone.
Just hold her all the time to make sure she doesnt faint at your new avatar.Arnav wrapped his arm on Akash shoulder and spoke leading him to Milani (Welcoming Baraat Ceremony) along with other family members. As everyone stood by the entrance of mandap hall, Arnav whispered not leaving any chance to tease Akash, This is it. No turning back. Sochlo freedom or spanks!
Arnie, you are supposed to help not worsen my situation. Akash rubbed his palms nervously.
Arnav stood by Akash as he was getting ready to be welcomed by his in-laws which is when he noticed Shashi and Garima walking towards them standing behind Payal parents. Instantly anger took over his playful attitude and narrowed his eyes at them remembering the scar and their parting. He looked away trying to control his anger.
While Payal's dad welcomed Akash by putting on garland, Payal's mom took his aarathi and put tilak. Since Arnav and other cousins were standing next to them, she put on tilak on all of them. When Arnav tried to step away, Aakash held his hand and sighed please to which Arnav obliged and bent his head for tilak.
After exchanging gifts in the form of cash on either side, Akash and his family finally stepped inside the hall. Arnav excused himself and walked over to Shashi and Garima who gave him a warm smile.
I am glad you are able to take some time off your busy schedule to meet your daughter. He said mockingly, his every word referring to how they kept her away all life.
Thank you for inviting. Shashi politely said with a smile understanding his indirect accusations.
I will let Khushi know, she will be happy to see you both. As he was about to leave Garima called him.
Chote!
He turned around and said narrowing his eyes, Arnav, I like to called Arnav!
She smiled and walked over to him and raised her finger to adjust the tilak on his forehead. He inched back refusing her.
She persistently walked closer, and adjusted his tilak, and spoke as her eyes welled up, I know you are now a very matured and sensible man and grown big enough to handle your life. Per itna bhi nahi ki, you cant touch elders feet and you cant let your AMMA fix your tilak.
Excuse Me? He said in disapproval at the word AMMA. He used to call her Amma he remembered.
What he didnt realize is that there is supreme force which controls his destiny and his actions. That moment a mother-in-law put tilak and welcomed her son-in-law in a whole new way without their own knowledge.
Garima! Shashi tried to stop Garima as that is not the place for any arguments.
Wait Shashi. I think he has forgotten many things which we need to remind him.
Arnav walked closer to Garima tucking his hands in his trouser pants and spoke looking at Shashi, You are right. Why dont we start with why Khushi was taken away from me?
Shashi looked at him all shocked while Garima lowered her eyes fidgeting with her pallu.
So he remembers! Shashi thought. Garima, we are in someone else wedding and this not the time to dig into the past. He turned to leave when Arnav taunted from behind.
What happened? I thought you were going to shed some light on the forgotten things.
Shashi turned around and spoke in fatherly voice, Arnav you are free to ask any question about anything but not here and not now. I dont want any public drama on my daughter's life.
Drama? Does this look like Drama to you? This is nothing compared to what you did 20 years ago in the middle of park infront of hundreds of people.
Arnav you are insulting us! Garima spoke as Shashi stood silent.
No Mrs Gupta. You are mistaken. I never insult my guests. I am just trying to understand why MY WIFE was taken away from me.
Shashi and Garima stood rooted to their spots sensing his paib and they knew this day will come soon and will not be an easy talk to elude Arnav Singh Raizada. Just then Akash called Arnav.
One week time is all you have. I need answers when we return. As Arnav turned to meet Akash, he stopped mid way realizing the need to let them know where Khushi is going to be next one week.
Khushi and I are going to Fiji for a week, tonight soon after wedding. She doesnt know it yet.
That immediately brought smile on their lips which irked him more.
I will let Khushi know that you are here.
Just let us know where she is. We will go meet her. Garima asked with smile.
He nodded and asked one the maids to take them to Payal room.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Amma, aap yahan? Khushi jumped in joy seeing Garima.
Papa is waiting outside.
Papa is here too? She rushed to meet her dad waiting outside the room.
Papa? She hugged him. I am surprised. What a sweet surprise?
I know your mind must be bombarding with millions of questions. Before they explode, let me clarify your husband invited us for the wedding.
Arnavji ne?
How many husbands do you have? Shashi teased.
Papa? She blushed. He didnt tell me. I am surprised and am very happy that you are going to be part of it.
Its been a while Shashi and Garima had seen her so happy. Her hearty laugh reminded them of innocent giggles of little Khushi. He looked down pretending to check his phone, wiping the tears of his eyes without her knowledge.
Papa? Amma? What happened? Why is Papa sad? Khushi asked worriedly holding her father's hand.
Nothing, I am very hungry. Shaadi hain, Aren't you going to feed us scrumptious dinner. Shashi tried to change the topic.
Aap bhi na? Garima nudged him. Khushi you go, be with Payal. We will be around. We will talk leisurely after wedding.
Amma, come here, I wanna ask you something. Papa excuse us please, ladies matter.
While he stepped away leaving the ladies alone, Khushi asked hesitatingly,Do you think I dressed inappropriately?
Garima said adjusting her hair, Why are you asking me? You are married. You should ask your husband.
Wahi tho. He gifted me this and I am worried if its too much...
Then you shouldn't be worrying if he has no problem. Waise you look like an angel to me, I am not sure about him.
Amma, you too?
Chal, you look fantastic. I have to see your husband's reaction when he sees you. I am going down and taking my best seat. Garima chuckled patting Khushi's cheek.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Khushi was texting Arnav thanking him for inviting her parents when Payal's mom rushed to Payal room and informed that Pandit ji is calling for Jaimala. She asked Khushi to bring her along.
Cookie, I am nervous yaar.
Jhoot mat bol. Khushi teased. Akash must be sweating river down there. Both girls imagining Akash situation burst into laughter only to receive warning stare from Payal mom.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ever since Panditji asked to bring Dulhan for Jaimala, Akash grew impatient waiting for Payal. He kept rubbing his palms nervously at the whole idea of marriage.
He finally spotted Payal coming down when he passed a restless comment "how long more..." to Arnav.
She looked like golden beauty dressed in red pink and orange lehenga, with heavy embellishments and pearl knots along the border. The reflection of its bright colors complimented the soft glow on her new mom face radiating her whole nothing less than a diva. Arnav keeping her choices and her present health in mind, meticulously designed the dupatta heavily so that she could hide her baby belly without being over conscious. Every guest gasped and looked at the bride in awe, some even felt jealous of the exquisite piece she is wearing.
Arnie, kamaal kar diya yaar. She looks like princess. Akash nudged Arnav who is not in his own real world.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ever since Panditji asked to bring Dulhan for Jaimala, Arnav situation is not any better than Akash. He grew impatient as he knew she will be showing up any moment with Payal. Arnav restlessly, repeatedly looked at the stairs waiting for her. God knows how many times he imagined her in the lehenga he gifted. Every single time, his mind gave him a fresh jittery feel imagining her.
Just then like an angel emerging from the thunderstorm, lightening the entire dark sky, she took her first step to descend the stairs towards him.
Ufff... Damn... F***!!! Thats all he managed to say in a split second he spotted her.
He let out Ufff the moment he saw her swaying her hair over her shoulders giggling at Payal, then he let out Damn the moment he trailed his gaze along the pallu that draped with perfection exposing her slender waist, and then he let out F*** the moment his eyes gazed at the way she flicked her finger each time pulling the saree to hide her adamant belly button that kept peeking out with sheer planning to tease him and torture him for the rest of the night.
As she descended stairs and walked towards him, his eyes particularly glued to her hips ogling at the way her hips swayed smoothly and sensuously. His heart started humming..
Chaand mera dil...Chaandini ho tum...Chaand se hain dooor...Chandini kaha...
He smiled at his own new street romeo attitude and wondered if thats her hips or his dirty thoughts that are swaying dramatically unbelievably amidst so many guests.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
While Payal walked to the mandap all nervous, Khushi tried to get glimpse of Arnav from the corner of her lids. She managed to look at him just once, feeling shy and flushed. One time she met his eyes, he stood with his hands in his trouser pants, looking jaw-droppingly dashing in his dark black suit, that he carried with utmost perfection.
Sensing his hot gaze is on her, particularly knowing which part of hers, she repeatedly adjusted her pallu as he walked to her with a dapper step skipping her heart beat. He stood next to her but spoke nothing and Khushi thought that he is still angry with the pills conversation.
As panditji instructed, Akash put garland on Payal while Payal blushed profusely at the new feeling of becoming his. When she tried to do the same to Akash, his cousins lifted him making it difficult for her to reach him, which is when Khushi screamed really not caring for guests around, Akash bend now warna I will break your neck. The pitch of her voice and her dont care attitude baffled all senior citizens while Payal giggled and AKash obliged.
Arnav amused at his crazy wife, nodded in despair sighing his apologies to the guests around.
Is this our Khushi who did that? Garima was surprised that crazy lady is none other than her daughter and what more shocking to her is seeing Arnav laughing and enjoying her antics. Khushi never behaved so insane or rather should say they never saw her being so bold and to herself.
May be this is our Khushi, which we failed to recognize. Shashi said in low tone, tad sadly to Garima.
As Akash put the garland on Payal, the couple blushed accepting each other and promising that they will respect each other all their life.
Khushi suddenly entwined her fingers into Arnav's and leaned on to him subtly. He tilted his head and looked at her and could read her every expression. He grabbed her hand and walked her a bit far from the bride and groom letting their own family with them. He squeezed her hand assuringly and made her look at him by lifting her chin.
He kissed her hair tenderly forgetting all his anger and asked, Tum teek ho? [ Are you OK? ]
She nodded Yes. He released his fingers from her grip and wrapped his arm around her shoulder. He pulled her closer, rubbing her arm assuringly as she leaned her head on his chest. They both stood like that for long time, far away from people, remembering their own marriage.
The way Arnav sensed the change in her expressions and took care of her need of the moment didnt go unnoticed by Shashi and Garima.
Did you see what I am seeing? Garima asked.
Yeah She didnt say a word yet he understood her every expression and handled her. I wish Aran was here to see them like this. Shashi felt emotional. He has been holding up ever since he walked into this mansion that brought so many memories with his best friend. In a way he was glad that Arnav arranged wedding towards the east side which was exclusively designed only for guests, which may be the reason why Arnav doesnt seem to be much affected. West side is what filled with so many fond memories, which may be difficult for both Guptas and Arnav.
Garima clutched Shashi's hand and uttered, She is happy Shashi. Did you see that?
More than I thought and he is too. Finally God is kind with him. He looked at their kids feeling overwhelmed to see their budding love, which is when Arnav's eyes fell on Khushi's parents.
Khushi?
Did you meet your parents?
Yes, Thank you. That was very pleasant surprise.
If you want, you can spend sometime with them.
No, thats fine. I will talk to them later.
Khushi? He tilted his head and looked at her as he wasnt expecting that.
She looked questioningly up at him.
Before he could ask her further, Payal sighed the couple to come nearer.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Panditji called for Payal's brother to do Rajaham, which is the ceremony to give sacrifice to the sacred fire.
As Arnav and Khushi approached the couple, Payal asked Arnav to do that.
Fatty mein kaise? Her questions confounded him and he became emotional thinking of his own sister.
Being the only child to her parents, she decided to give that privilege to Arnav as he is nothing short of that in her life. She was sure she would asked Arnav even she had her own brother.
Arnie, I dont think even my own brother would have done what you did for us. Please maan jao, humare liye.
Khushi squeezed his shoulder and smiled sighing him to perform that. He couldnt say anything as he could feel his sister presence around. What he felt was inexplicable and he stepped onto the mandap at total loss of words.
As Panditji chanted slokas, Arnav placed Payal hands in Akash's and filled her palms with rice. Akash and Payal offered the rice as a sacrifice to the fire.
It was emotional moment and will be the most memorable moment for all four of them. Payal truly feeling that she is leaving the entire world to become Akash's, Akash feeling that the world is suddenly at his feet, Arnav feeling the presence of Anjali and her blush when she mentioned about her prince, and Khushi bleeding heart as she is feeling helpless to heal him.
As Arnav got down, Payal called him again and this time she asked both Arnav and Khushi to do Gath Bandhan, to tie their nuptial knot.
Arnav stood where he was, totally overwhelmed with whatever is happening. His hands shivered, palms turned cold and sweat broke on his forehead feeling the loss of his sister. Khushi remembered him telling that Anjali wanted a prince. She entwined her fingers in his and squeezed his hand, calming the riling up tension in him, She spoke in her softest tone, convincingly, May be this is what she wanted. May be you are giving her prince. The moment he heard Khushi's voice, tears stirred up in his eyes but careful enough not to slip through the lids. As his vision turned blurred due to lone tears stuck in his eyes, she held his hand and led him behind the couple. Holding his hand, she took the first step to grab the scarves of the bride and groom. He then took over and tied the scarves together as tight as he could blessing the couple.
It doesnt matter who ties the nuptial knot, brother, sister, mama, maami, male or female, what matters is the pure heart of that person and his/her conviction to bless the couple with all their heart.
He leaned over, hugged Payal and Akash and kissed Payal's head whisperingThank You!
Payal and Akash knew what this means to him and they are sure no one can fit the bill to unite them better than their Arnie.
Khushi took Arnav to secluded corner away from crowd and gave him some water.
Noticing all these, Garima said to Shashi wiping her tears, You are right. He does need Khushi. Kitna dard seha hoga?
As he drank water and kept the glass away, she hugged him throwing her arms around him tightly. He spoke nothing but held her tightly. She needed nothing to hear and neither he needed to hear anything from her. A hug was all needed and she knows exactly when he needs it and she is always ready to give him that solace.
She kissed his cheeks and asked caressing his frontal hair, Tum teek ho?
He nodded Yes closing his eyes feeling her touch on his forehead. In effort to divert his mind, she pouted and spoke resting her hands on her hips, You look pathetic.
He frowned trying to grasp what she is talking.
Haan, have you checked yourself in the mirror? You look pathetic. Dried up gel, messy hair...
He looked confused and he thought he dressed to perfection when he checked last time. He leaned to his left and checked himself in the mirror opposite. He looked fine to his eyes.
She continued, no perfume, shoes are not polished, is this the way you dress for wedding? She asked frowning her brows.
Thanks I wasnt expecting this from my wife seeing me after so many hrs. Dont you think I deserve better compliment? He tried to walk away irritated.
She pulled him and pinned him to the pillar. Tracing her finger along his jawline, she asked huskily in her famous seducing tone, How do you manage to look so HOT all the time? She asked fluttering her eyebrows.
He couldnt handle it. He blushed and tried to wander his gaze.
See, this is why I dont waste my precious compliments on you. This time she tried to step backward with a blush smile with the way he looked at her blushing and blinking his eyes slowly.
He pulled her to him holding her waist. He shamelessly lowered his eyes and looked at her midriff while she wandered her eyes shyly and struggled to get away. He brushed his knuckles from the border of her blouse to the start of her lehenga, lingering around her belly button.
Arnav what are you doing? Someone might see us.
Stop going far from me. He dipped his fingers in her lehenga and pulled her closer.
Arnav, chodo. Koi dekhlega. She pleaded on his neck as he held her close with his one palm on her back.
He traced the inner lining of her lehenga, with his fingers brushing her skin underneath, going around her hips.
Arnav, pl..pl..ease. She stumbled upon her words and she held his lapels firmly.
Kiss me! He asked looking at her shining plump lips.
Hn?
He raised his eyebrow confirming she heard him right.
Not here, please koi dekhlega.
Kiss!
Arnav? Stop being stubborn. Please understand.
I need a Kiss! Else my fingers will be stuck there permanently.
She looked at him gritting her teeth and he welcomed her with warm naughty smile as she leaned in to cater his demands. While she was busy exploring his every corner, he tied a 3-layered waist band ornated with delicate diamonds and emeralds. Feeling the cold chain on her skin, she broke the kiss and looked at the beautiful piece with surprised expression.
Achaa laga? He asked running his fingers on it looking at her face that turned all crimson.
She sucked her tummy muscles the moment she felt his rough fingers and kissed his cheek and stepped back blushing, nodding Yes.
The moment she took few steps to run away from him, he leaned against the pillar and sang,
Chaand Mera dil...Chaandini ho tum...
Chandini se hai dooor...Chaandini kahaaa
Laut ke aana...hai yahi tumko
Jaa rahe ho tum...Jao meri jaan
She took few long strides and swiftly held his hands behind his back. She inched up and bit his lips teasingly and ran away from him blushing, not before she heard him, We still need to settle scores on those pills.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Arnav and Khushi stood little far from the mandap as couple's family surrounded it. Arnav looked a bit restless as if waiting for the moment. Khushi looked at him and sighed if everything is OK. He side hugged her and smiled Yes.
Arnav, I am not able to see anything. Why are these people so tall?
Arnav chuckled and teased her, Why are you so short?
She nudged his taut chest prompting, I dont want to miss him tying mangalsutra and sindoor.
You wont miss anything. He said a bit confidently, and she looked puzzled hearing him.
Come with me! Just when Panditji asked Akash to tie mangalsutra, Arnav caught hold of Khushi's hand and led her upstairs from where they can see the whole ceremony clearly.
This is so much better. Khushi said clapping her hands and resting them on hand rails. He stood behind her hugging her from behind and resting his chin on her shoulders. They both stood there watching the entire ceremony, he occasionally kissing her cheeks and rubbing her arms to make her feel better as he knew she is going through the same what he is going through remembering their moments.
She tilted her head and spoke looking at his eyes, You know when you put sindoor, I was confused with my own feelings. I wasnt happy with the marriage but yet I felt different as if I meant to be yours, as if the moment and the new relation is just too perfect.
I know, the way you looked at me that moment, I sort of understood your inner turmoil.
And you smiled at me as if it was perfect meant-to-be moment.
Indeed it was! He leaned and kissed the corner of her lips.
As the ceremony ended, people were scattering, he sighed a maid to get the tray. As soon as she left placing the tray on the pedestal, he took step backward and the spotlight fell on her, turning off all other lights in the hall. There was absolutely pin-drop silence.
She turned around about to call his name and stood shocked unable to understand whats happening. He placed his finger on her lips and she became silent. He stepped backward and the expressions on her face was worth watching. She wasnt sure herself what she was thinking let alone him. Surprise was easy to read in every little expression of her face.
He tenderly held her hand in his, I am sorry Khushi for delaying this and making you wait for so long.He paused rubbing his thumb back of her palm,You are wonderful, soul at its purest form. You gave me back everything I lost. I dont think I can find more perfect crazy lady like you to make my life memorable. I want to spend every moment of my life with you until the last breath.
The very first moment I saw you I fell in love with you. Not sure why, but did fall pretty deep. I didnt know how to show you much I love you so I brought 2 most important people (Shashi and Garima) of your life to show how much I love you.
Shashi wrapped his arm around Garima as tears flooded his eyes. The most happiest moment for any parent.
Arnav went down on his knees while her whole body shook in tears realizing whats about to come.
Khushi Kumari Gupta Singh Raizada, before you returned to my deserted life, I didnt think my frown and my life will be turned upside down for the best. I promise I will buy you loads of chocolates and ice creams. She chuckled and his mission was indeed successful easing her a bit before he popped the question.
He held out the beautiful pink diamond ring and asked as his hands trembled to pop the question,
Would you do the honor and make me the happiest man on the earth.
Will you please please marry me... NOW?
She covered her mouth with her one palm, laughing, blushing and crying all at once. Then she heard Akash screaming, Come on Cookie!
YES YES YES! She jumped on him as he stood up. She threw her arms tightly around his neck and pulled him into kiss not caring who is watching them.
I love you, I love you, I love you sooo much...She mumbled on his lips and he chuckled at the extra attention and love he is getting now. He loved her reaction, the best reaction any spouse could ask for. Her giggles, her cries, her mumbles, her hurried kisses as he is the only one around all made him extra special.
He pulled back and slipped the beautiful ring on her ring finger which already has their first engagement ring. They chuckled as there is not much space left on her tiny finger.
He kissed her knuckles and pulled her for another kiss. All elders blushed and looked away trying not the see the young couple going overboard.
Realizing the mob around him, he pulled back whispering I dont want to spend my first night here. She blushed and slipped her arms hugging him possessively, unaware that he is serious about their first night.
Garima, Shashi, Akash, Payal and their close family came up where the Arnav and Khushi are.
As he sighed his next arrangement, Panditji took the mic and started chanting mantras. Arnav took Mangalsutra from the box and held it infront of her. She smiled and lowered her eyes focusing on his wrists as he adorn her neck with yet another master selection of his.
She looked at him remembering how she was upset in the studio about the marriage. Tears rolled down thinking how he fulfilled her every desire and she wondered if she will ever get a chance to serve him the same. He took sindoor and filled her maang and she blushed and both prompted heart to heart JUST PERFECT.
Garima Shashi never seen their daughter so happy and their hearts welled up with tears. Payal and Akash were no different. They never seen Arnav so happy in last 8 years and they are glad and happy to part of their small world.
He kissed her forehead tenderly as her tears touched his wrists.
Khushi, I dont believe in taking those vows (Saat Phere) but I can sum it up for you.
I LOVE YOU and will never misuse it to my advantage and will never take our relation for granted.
She hugged him overwhelmed with the joy, And I dont need anything else.
A wedding that once happened had everything, bridal wear, sherwani, expensive jewels, hi-profile society, massive decoration but what missed was their hearts and each other's consent to their marriage, which is why they both felt that vastness in their wedding.
Today inspite all those materialistic items missing, he is there to protect her and she is there to surrender herself for an eternal bond, which is why they felt nothing less than heavenly and surreal with the new feeling and more responsibility to handle their tender love as they are pronounced Man and Wife, Mr and Mrs. Arnav Singh Raizada.
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