Chapter 5

Hello everyone!
I am back with Chapter 5! It's slightly smaller, but I just wanted to stop here for this chapter.
I also want to thank everyone for your appreciation and your lovely comments. I have been a bit busy so I couldn't reply personally. But I just want to say that I do read all your comments when I come to the blog and it delights me to see that so many people are reading this FF. Thanks to Ravneet once again for encouraging me to write this FF.
Now, I don't want to take a lot of your time. Go on. Read the chapter. Let me know what you thought about it, and leave your comments with your IF name below.
Enjoy! <3

Chapter 5

Please note I retain sole ownership of all the works of fiction on this blog so please do not reproduce or alter my work and claim it as your own.

Arnav came out of the washroom and got into his bed after a tiring day. After the meeting, Arnav had spent the entire day preparing assignments according to the specialty of each of the interns. Obviously, he didn't actually knew who was who, but he simply used their profiles and transcripts to set the tasks. Yes, he could have asked Aman to do the same while simply dictating the tasks, but Arnav simply couldn't trust anyone else to match his perfection. After the agenda for the entire month had been prepared, Arnav had finally called Aman after avoiding him for most of the day. Arnav handed everything to Aman to be given to the interns in the morning. 
Afterward Arnav called NK who informed him to reach one of the clubs where NK and his friends were outing. Although Arnav had instantly declined the offer, NK had managed to somehow convince him through some minor blackmail. Shortly after Arnav had joined him, NK did realize that it was a mistake after all, due to three simple reasons: 1) Arnav wouldn't drink on a workday. 2) Arnav wouldn't loosen himself up to dance. 3) Arnav would only say one-liners, and that too, only when it was absolutely needed for him to actually open his mouth to respond, which his glares and nods were doing a perfect job for most of the time.

After a wasteful evening, Arnav had finally come back to KM and finished his dinner rather quickly to avoid any questionnaire about his workday by either his Uncle or Aunt. He finally came to his room with the excuse of having to prepare some presentations.

Even though Arnav had been avoiding a certain issue throughout the day, he simply couldn't now in the privacy of his room. But somewhere in his heart, Arnav did want to remember it now. It just simply felt like the right time to do so. He mind went back to an intriguing pair of eyes which had haunted him throughout the day.

* Flashback *

Arnav had observed each of the interns as they entered and seated themselves, while he was seated at his place in the Conference hall. He was thankful to few of the directors who were successfully blocking him from the view of any of the interns. Arnav wouldn't want any of his interns to see him and get any wrong ideas because he just wanted to know exactly who he was going to be leading. Arnav Singh Raizada could always identify the underlying truth behind a person's mask, while no one was able to do the same with him. 
Two girls and two boys, all in their late teens or early-twenties, all professionally dressed up, but still all having a certain immaturity present somewhere. A mental note added to ASR's mind.

Before Arnav could further analyze any of the interns, Mr. Guido had called him up. While Arnav had started his speech with utmost concentration, a pair of hazel eyes began to distract him. The way her eyes were looking at him, it almost seemed as if she could see directly through his mask. Arnav avoided looking at her even though he felt her gaze on him throughout the speech. Arnav had initially planned on getting the interns started on the first of the assignments right away, but for some reason, he simply couldn't stay any longer. He had quickly made up an excuse to get away for the day and walked out of the Conference hall before anyone could step up to stop him.

* Flashback ends * 

As Arnav laid in his bed and closed his eyes, the same pair of hazel eyes kept coming into his view. 
Her eyes.....her eyes had so many questions....yet, they seemed so honest, so clear....as if there was not a single shred of world's evil within....as if she was pure goodness....but why were those eyes confused....why those questions....why....

After sometime, Arnav fell into a deep sleep, only to wake soon after and have a restless night with the hazel eyes coming into his dreams again and again and again.

Somewhere in NYC at 7:00 AM the next day:

Khushi had finally gotten out of her bed after a sleepless night. Unlike Arnav, she wasn't seeing only a pair of eyes because she was simply confused. Khushi had a feeling that something was coming towards her with an unrelenting speed. Something powerful, but yet something that would change everything. Yes, she was seeing the pair of eyes, but that wasn't the only thing bothering her. She had a sickly feeling after meeting Shyam yesterday and for some reason, she just couldn't shrug it off.

After getting home from IBM, Lavanya had gone back home after lunch, while Khushi had spent a good hour making jalebis, even when her mother had been unsuccessfully trying to stop her. Since jalebis seemed to have calmed her down a bit, Khushi had gone out to the park to refresh her mind. Khushi only returned back in the evening, only few moments after Payal had returned from work. The rest of the evening was spent in the regular chatter of the two sisters. Khushi didn't go to bed till late because she knew she wasn't going to get sleep anytime soon this night.

Khushi took her shower and got ready for IBM, while also ready to face two certain entities which seemed to have become her main focus since yesterday. Khushi went downstairs to find her Bauji already gone for his morning walk, her father busy with the newspaper, while her mother and sister were preparing breakfast. Payal and Garima were pleasantly surprised to find Khushi up and ready for work. Accepting it as a good sign of responsibility towards her internship, everyone resumed their usual tasks.

Khushi gave a quick call to Lavanya and told her that she'll meet her directly in IBM, much to Lavanya's distaste since she would need to driven by her brother now, since she had gotten into two accidents already with her driving skills. It did take some convincing to do with Khushi's father, but Amar couldn't have denied anything to his Sunshine after all.

Khushi walked out of the house at exactly 8 o'clock, with an extra 45 minutes to sort her mind. Khushi drove to IBM and parked her car. Not wanting to stay in the parking lot, Khushi walked to IBM. Since the building was already open early for the maintenance staff, Khushi got to the 5^th floor to find it almost empty, with only the maintenance staff cleaning up.

IBM Parking lot at 8:20 AM:

Arnav parked his car, picked his laptop bag and made his way to the building. As soon as he stepped out of the elevator and moved towards his cabin, a familiar scent filled his senses. Arnav closed his eyes and the same pair of hazel eyes came into his vision.

Much annoyed from a restless night, Arnav had gone for an early jog to clear his mind. After coming back, he had gotten ready only to notice that it was 7:45 AM. He had finally chosen to call back home in India, after avoiding it for almost two days now. The first two calls went unattended, but he still tried once more and had it answered by one of the servants, who told him that Mr. & Mrs. ASR were out for a business party. Arnav ended the call without any other word and went out of KM, avoiding and ignoring anyone in his way.

The 45-minute drive only took 30 minutes with Arnav's anger playing a key role with the speed. But the intensity of the speed seemed to have calmed him down and he finally walked in, prepared for the workday.

His early morning mood swings had taken out the pressure of a sleepless night out of his mind, but the same scent seemed to be attracting his attention towards the same hazel eyes. For unknown reasons, he could only associate two things to each other, without even having it clearly proven for himself.

A sound of someone clearing his throat brought Arnav back to the present time. Arnav opened his eyes to find a janitor in front of him. A humble, yet quivering voice spoke, “Sir, no one is in yet. Though there is one girl waiting for you in your office. She said she is an intern. She came early so I made her sit in your office since I didn't know otherwise.”

Arnav gave a curt but a brief nod to the janitor and walked towards his cabin. Though he was impressed by whoever was so eager for the internship, Arnav sure was a bit annoyed to have his private time gone.

Khushi, on the other hand, had been standing around, having her monologues with Devi Mayyia about the recent issues, when one of the janitors walked up to her. The janitor seemed very friendly, so Khushi couldn't refuse when he asked her to wait in the cabin of the one and only Arnav Singh Raizada.

While Arnav was walking towards the cabin, Khushi had finally satisfied herself into thinking that ASR wouldn't probably come until 9:00 and by then, other faculty members would be here, and Khushi would be able to leave his cabin without coming into his notice.

The door to the cabin opened to reveal a girl with her back to Arnav, looking out the windows, and doing some weird gestures with her hands. Even though the same sweet scent was present in his very own cabin, Arnav ignored it as a side-effect of not getting enough sleep. Arnav entered the cabin, but finding that the girl was clearly not aware of his presence, he cleared his throat.

A harsh, yet firm sound of a throat being cleared jolted Khushi out of her thoughts. Khushi turned around almost immediately to find herself standing merely a feet away from her “perfect enigma.” Khushi's eyes opened wide and her mouth dropped and went into a perfect “O” shape. Arnav was taken by surprise to find the same pair of hazel eyes looking at him, only this time with a visible surprise and shock present in her eyes. Thus began the glare session between the two pairs of eyes: a hazel pair of eyes with a caramel pair of eyes. Few seconds turned into minutes, but the couple simply couldn't have enough of the eye-lock.

A slight sound from outside helped Arnav regain control over himself, while Khushi stood in the same position without a change. Something about her pulled Arnav to move closer to her. He wanted to take off the ASR mask completely and just lose himself in those hazel eyes. A hint of smile was present on Arnav's face, as the distance between the two decreased.  

Arnav's look for the day - Arnav

Khushi's look for the day - Khushi

(I have no copyrights for the photos. The credit goes to Google and to whomever it may concern.)

How was it? 

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Chapter 4

Hello everyone!
Here's Chapter 4.  Enjoy reading and leave all your comments below with your IF name. Buddy me on IF Mannat27 :) 
Follow my Blog as well <3

Enjoy!!!!

Chapter 4

Please note I retain sole ownership of all the works of fiction on this blog so please do not reproduce or alter my work and claim it as your own.

IBM @ 8:30 AM:

Arnav Singh Raizada parked his car and strode confidently towards the building. The ASR mode turned full on. As he had already been informed that the 5^th Floor was going to be his working place, Arnav made his way to the elevator and up to his destination.

Arnav signed in at the reception and the receptionist gave him the directions to the Conference hall, where he would meet with the manager, Mr. Mark Guido, who would have all his paperwork ready for him. Arnav made his way to the Conference hall.

Mr. Guido was a middle-aged man with a bald head, about 5”8 of height, fair complexion with a hint of red. After the introductions, the contract agreement had been signed, and all rules and regulations explained. Mr. Guido picked up the desk phone and gave some instructions to the person on the other end.

Few moments later, a man in his early-twenties, fair-looking, with a well-maintained body, and a face with a smile playing on his lips, entered the Conference hall with a file in his hands.

Mr. Guido gave a smile to the man and looked at Arnav, “Mr. Raizada, Mr. Aman Stephens would be your assistant. He would provide for all your needs on-duty.” 
Arnav looked at Aman and gave a curt nod, as if to approve him of the position. Aman, on the other hand, took in the strong posture of his new boss, the expressionless face, the determined eyes, and Aman had a strong feeling that this boss of his would be very different from the friendly Guido.

“Well Mr. Stephens, it's your responsibility now to show the entire department to Mr. Raizada and introduce him to other members of the faculty and staff. And Mr. Raizada, I'll meet you here at 9:30, along with all the interns. You have nothing to worry since Mr. Stephens is one of the most efficient and diligent members of IBM.” Mr. Guido said.

Arnav shared a handshake with Mr. Guido and the man bid his short goodbye to the gentlemen.

Aman, who till now had been comfortable with the warm presence of his once-upon boss, looked at his new boss with a mild smile, having a feeling that his new boss might not approve of his usual grin. On the other hand, Arnav examined Aman head-to-toe, as if to validate his presence and his position in actuality.

“Are you going to gawk at me for the entire day or do you intend to complete the task assigned by Mr. Guido?” said Arnav in a steel tone, which for unknown reasons sent sudden shivers down Aman's spine.

“Yessss Sir....I meann....noo Sir.....I...” stammered poor Aman while avoiding any direct eye contact with his stone-voiced boss. Without further delay, he gestured Arnav to follow him. “Thiss way Sirr.”

Arnav looked at his supposedly-efficient-assistant, rolled his eyes, but followed him nonetheless.

Trying to control his sudden racing heart, Aman counted down from ten, to calm himself while holding the door open for his Sir. Aman, pleased to be able to control himself, got into his professional mode and showed Arnav all of the sub-departments of the Business Department. Since most of the faculty members got to work usually at 9:00, there were very few introductions to be conducted. While heading to the Finance sub-department, Aman recognized the file in his hand.

“Sir, this file contains your copy of the contract agreement. I forgot to give it back there” said Aman, looking away hurriedly as he saw a glare coming his way.

Arnav took the file from Aman's hands, but more like snatched the file. “Where am I supposed to keep it till the end of the day?”

“Ermm....your Cabin is directly to the right, but you can also keep it your car.”

Arnav cursed under his breath, and without sparing a glance at his ever-so-efficient-yet-forgetful assistant, he made his way to the elevator to go down five floors, to his car, then come back from the car, up five floors, and finally to his cabin which he hasn't even seen yet! Arnav surely hadn't imagined his assistant to be so whatever-ish! A person whose strides are full of perfection is stuck with an assistant who can't even confidently speak in his presence! 
How am I to tolerate him each workday? Unbelievable!

Busy with his monologues, while cursing a specific someone, Arnav opened the front door of the building without noticing someone rushing towards the same front door. Thumpp!!! A soft, slender form clashed into his chest. His reflexive instincts came in control instantly as his right hand went around her waist to balance himself. A sweet scent filled Arnav's senses, but before it could do any “harm,” ASR resurfaced once again. “What the!!!” He was about to give her a piece of his mind, but in a flash, the form went around him and inside the building. He heard a faint, but a sweet voice coming from her direction. "Sorrryyyy." Not being able to see the face of the soft, slender form, Arnav looked after her, shrugged and again made his way to his car.

After finally finishing up the “important” task, Arnav came back to find Aman standing at the same spot he had left him.

As soon as his new boss came into his vision, Aman went towards him and finally led him to his cabin. (Arnav's cabin)

“Sir, at 9:30, everyone is to gather in the Conference hall where all the interns will be introduced, along with your formal introduction.” 
Placing few files on the table, Aman continued, “These are the profiles of all the interns, along with their transcripts.”

Having enough of Aman adventure, Arnav motioned Aman to leave, without giving any response to his first actual speech without stammering. However, secretly, ASR was impressed due to the courage Aman had decided to show suddenly. Arnav picked first of the files and began studying it.

Aman, on the other hand, made his way out as quickly as possible, and finally let his breath out which he had been holding since Arnav came back. While Arnav was gone, Aman had called his mother to hear her reassuring voice, and then he had muttered few prayers to all the heavenly Gods to help him. Having enough confidence to last him through at least an hour, Aman had stood waiting for Arnav. Unfortunately for him, Aman shortly realized that his confidence would only last ten minutes in the cold presence of his boss. As a last minute precaution, Aman had held in his breath to help him, and miraculously, it had worked! Mentally patting himself, Aman made his way toward the main hall where all the interns were to be gathered after the formalities.

IBM few minutes ago:

Once the elevator doors closed, Khushi held her hand to her chest, waited for her breathing to get even. As she closed her eyes, the “clash” came back in her mind: the strong cologne, the husky voice, the strong body, the rough hand on her waist. 
Who did I clash into? I hope the poor man didn't get hurt anywhere. Well, I don't know if he got hurt or not, but my head surely did. She thought while opening her eyes and rubbing her forehead where it hurt a bit still.

Before Khushi could further ponder on her recent experience, the elevator opened and Khushi quickly went out. She looked around for any sign of Lavanya, but no luck. 
Of course, what can I expect from her? She would be more concerned about making herself look presentable and being on time than her own friend. Devi Mayyia, who would even need enemies with such a friend? No no Khushi, that's wrong to say. She's still your childhood friend. Maybe no one is allowed to wait. Or maybe she needed to do a touch-up of her makeup. Or maybe.....

The receptionist was looking at Khushi awkwardly, while Khushi was busy in her monologue. Khushi looked up to see a girl in her early-twenties with an annoyed look on her face. 
 “Oh, I am Khushi Kumari Gupta. I am one of the interns. This is my ID.”

Not wanting to bear another second with the strange girl who enjoyed jumping from one expression to another without any reason, the receptionist helped her with all the formalities and gave her the directions to the main hall where all the interns were to gather presently.

As Khushi entered the hall, she spotted her friend. She went to stand next to Lavanya, only to find her looking in some other direction. Khushi followed her gaze and saw the reason of her friend's distraction. Khushi looked at her friend and pinched her on her arm.

“Ouchhh!”

Lavanya looked at Khushi with a scowl on her face. “Khushiii. What the hell was that for?”

“Well, if you had noticed me standing here, I wouldn't need to do that.”

“I was just looking at one of the directors of the Internship program. See, that's Shyam Manohar Jha!”

Without paying attention to where Lavanya was pointing, Khushi said “Directors? Wasn't this program being headed by one person only?”

“Yeah, it is. He gets the final say in everything. But all the directors work to provide for all the funds and permissions he would need. So, isn't Shyam cute?”

Khushi looked at Shyam, observing him for a moment and then back at Lavanya.

“I don't know about cute, but he sure gives me negative vibes.”

“Oh shut up. You say that about every single boy!”

Before their argument could be continued, a voice was heard on the PA for all the interns and faculty to head to the Conference hall.

Khushi and Lavanya made their way to the Conference hall. All the interns were provided with their IBM identification cards, which they would need to have on them at all times. All four interns were pointed towards their seats, while the faculty was already seated.

“Hello everyone. I am Mark Guido, the manager of IBM. I welcome all the interns to our Extreme Internship Program. This program will continue for the next six months, and then, one of you will be given the opportunity to work at IBM. I now introduce you to Mr. Arnav Singh Raizada, who will be heading this program.”

Khushi's eyes followed Mr. Guido's hand pointing to a man, who was sitting on the left side of the conference table, safely away from the view of the interns until he finally stood up. A tall, young, and handsome man walked to the podium and adjusted the mike to his preference.

“Good Morning everyone. I, Arnav Singh Raizada, will be heading the Extreme Internship Program. This internship is only for the top-notch students pursuing high career goals. As a team, your challenge is to develop the best strategies for business and plan.....”

While Arnav continued his speech, Khushi had lost herself at the mention of his name. The way he said his name with such a great pride stopped the time there itself for Khushi. She was in awe. But no, it was not because of his looks, but it was because of the respect the man held with his own voice. For some unknown reasons, his voice seemed familiar to Khushi. Khushi examined him, moving her gaze carefully on his face. While he looked like a perfect gentleman from every angle, there was something about his eyes that struck Khushi. 
An enigma....yes, his eyes looked like an enigma.....a perfect riddle.....a determination, yet something more.....a focus, yet a far-away look.....a satisfaction, yet an emptiness....

Lavanya nudged Khushi when she saw her dreamy look. Khushi straightened right away and paid attention to the speech by the perfect “enigma.”

“....therefore, I would like the interns to just get familiar with the atmosphere. The interns may leave once they have introduced themselves to the faculty. However, I would meet all tomorrow only. At 9:00 sharp, all interns would report to my office. You will be given your first assignments tomorrow.”

Arnav gave a nod to Aman and made his way out of the conference hall, thus dismissing the conference. Aman took the mike and formally introduced each of the interns.

Khushi looked at Lavanya confused. “What happened? Why did he leave so abruptly?”

Lavanya shook her head and said, “No wonder there since you were day-dreaming during his speech.”

“I was NOT day-dreaming!” Khushi said defending herself.

“Oh, forget it! He just said that it's his first day and he wants to have all the papers ready for us and begin the program with proper assignments, rather than little stuff. So he just gave us a day off. Now shall we finish the intros and move out of here?”

“Hey Devi Mayyia, I completely got lost back there. Well okay then, let's get it done with. There is no point in staying here without any work.”

Khushi and Lavanya went around to each of the faculty members and introduced themselves. The last introduction ended up being with none other than Mr. Jha. While everyone else seemed friendly or simply professional, Khushi still wasn't comfortable around Shyam. His sickly sweet smile surely wasn't helping. There was something unsettling about him, something that made Khushi feel wrong. Khushi quickly finished the introduction and held Lavanya's hand, literally pulling her out of the Conference hall. Before Lavanya could protest or show any tantrums, Khushi made a lame excuse of not being well due to a lack of sleep. Both made their way out of the hall, while a pair of black eyes followed their movements.

So, how was it? 

Let me know, and leave your lovely comments with IF name below. 

:)

Chapter 3

Hello everyone!
Here's Chapter 3.  Enjoy reading and leave all your ever lovely comments below with your IF name. Buddy me on IF Mannat27 :) 
Follow my Blog as well <3

Enjoy!!!!

Chapter 3

Please note I retain sole ownership of all the works of fiction on this blog so please do not reproduce or alter my work and claim it as your own.

7:45 AM @ Kapoor Mansion:

Arnav came out of his room, dressed in a charcoal suit with a white shirt and a gray tie, his hair gelled to perfection, and a determined look displaying on his face.   Arnav knew that NK would be in a deep slumber, but he knocked on NK's door nonetheless. Even after two knocks, there was no sign on NK. Letting it be, Arnav made his way towards the grand staircase, leading to the living room.

Vikas Kapoor, an early riser due to his habitual morning walk, noticed Arnav all dressed, coming down the staircase.

“Arnav bitwa, it's not even 8:00 yet, where are you going this early?” asked Vikas surprisingly.

Arnav looked at his Uncle with a gentle smile.

“I received a call this morning that IBM has few formalities to be taken care of before proceeding with the workday at 9:00” answered Arnav.

“Oh, okay then. But Manorama must be already done with preparing the breakfast, and since you are diabetic, you need to take care of your diet as well beta. And it's only a 30 minute drive. Come”

Arnav gave a slight nod to his Uncle and both made their way towards the dining table.

Manorama was arranging the breakfast on the table when Vikas and Arnav entered the dinning room.

“Manorama, Arnav has to go early today. Is breakfast all ready?” asked Vikas.

“Hello Hi, Bye Bye. Breakfast is all readiz. Come Arnav bitwa. Vikas, why donts you also eats breakfast?”

“Yeah, I'll also join Arnav. Nothing better than food to brighten up your day” answered Vikas gleefully.

As Arnav finished his breakfast, Manorama asked Vikas, “Did you tolds the driver to get the car redij for Arnav?”

“Oh, I almost forgot! Let me do that right away” said Vikas.

Before Vikas could make a move, Arnav spoke, “No Uncle and Aunty. I have already arranged for a car.”

Vikas and Manorama both glanced at each other and then at Arnav. “But beta, when did you do all that? You should have just informed us, after all, we are here for you.”

Arnav shook his head in negative, “Uncle, I am my own responsibility. I had a job in London as well. I have enough savings to take care of everything. I am only here because I had a deal with Dad.”

“Deal?” Manorama and Vikas both asked simultaneously.

“Yeah. If I stay here, I would be get to travel on my own to wherever and whenever I like. The car was sent over today morning only, so I came with NK yesterday" Arnav stated as matter-of-factly.

“So you no likej living with us?” asked Manorama, her face a bit saddened with the facts.

“Oh, please don't misunderstand me! Aunty, you all are the closest family friends. NK is like a brother to me. I just wanted to be independent.”

Vikas stood up next to Manorama and placed a hand on her shoulder.

“See Mona, Arnav is his father's son. What else could we even expect from him?” saying this, Vikas gave a small chuckle, which Manorama joined in with as well, while Arnav gave a grim smile.

Vikas looked at Arnav and gave a warm smile, “We are absolutely fine with it, son. But if there is anything you ever need help with, don't hesitate to speak your mind.”

Arnav gave a reassuring look to Vikas and Manorama, and while giving a nod, he stood up.

“It's almost 8, so I'll be taking your leave. I'll give NK a call once I am done with work.”

“Sure beta” Vikas said.

“One minute paleej beta, theres one things I havez to do” said Manorama while rushing to the kitchen.

Vikas and Arnav looked at each other with confused looks. Manorama came back after a minute with a little cup in her hand.

“Arnav bitwa, it's your firsht day at your workwa. So this curd with sugar to wishing you very good luck.”

When Arnav returned her gesture with a bewildered look, Manorama quickly added, “It's sugar-free bitwa. I won't gives you sugar.”

Arnav gave a small smile to grant her permission to proceed, and Manorama fed a spoon of sweet curd to Arnav. At this moment, Arnav couldn't have been more glad to be staying over at the Kapoors. Unfortunately for him, Arnav never had someone do this for him, not even when he left India to move to London for his MBA.

Arnav touched Manorama and Vikas's feet and both blessed him. Giving another one of his small smiles to his Aunt and Uncle, Arnav moved out of the house.

Outside the KM stood his white Audi R8. Unlocking his car, Arnav got in and added the address in the car GPS for IBM.

Somewhere in NYC at the same time:

“Khushiiiiiiiiiiiiii, get up! You are going to be late!” yelled Payal while pulling the blanket off of Khushi.

“Jiji, let me sleep na. Just five minutes more” answered a sleepy Khushi while covering her head with the pillow.

“It's already 8 o'clock Khushi!”

“WHATTTT?” Khushi screamed and immediately sprang up from the bed and turned around to look at the clock.

“Why didn't you wake me up early, Jiji? It's my first day at IBM and I am already late.”

“Excuse me? I have been yelling at you for more than 30 minutes now, and I didn't wake you early?”

Khushi gave a side hug to her sister and “GOOD MORNINGGG JIJIIIIIII” yelled in her ears.

“Goshhhhh Khushiii! Enough of this now. Get ready immediately. Lavanya is already waiting for you downstairs.”

“Lavanya?! But why did she come this early?” asked Khushi while choosing her clothes from her closet.

“Maa and Papa wanted to have a word with her before you both head out. It's your first internship and you know how protective Maa and Papa are.”

“Ok, fine Jiji. Tell Lavanya that I'll be down in 15 minutes” said Khushi while entering the washroom and locking the door.

Payal rolled her eyes at the closed door and went out muttering to herself about her crazy sister.

Exactly after 27 minutes, Khushi stepped into the living room. (Khushi's dress)Waving a hi at Lavanya, Khushi rushed into the kitchen. 
“Maa, I can't have breakfast today. I have to rush. I'll have something over there.”

Khushi's mother, Garima, looked at Khushi sternly and handed her a sandwich packed in a plastic bag.

“I already knew that you would end up doing this. Why can't you ever rise early? You know what Bauji always says?”

“Maa, the main thing is to be on time. And thank you so much for the sandwich. Now I need to go see Bauji and Papa and run for my life!” 
 Khushi hugged her Maa quickly and ran out of the kitchen, but not before yelling “Love you Maa!”

While Khushi was coming from the kitchen, her Bauji had come back from his walk and her father was already sitting at the dinning table, waiting for Bauji to join him.

Khushi ran up to her father, “Wish me luck, Papa!” and hugged her father, Amar Gupta.

“Best of luck, Sunshine! I have told everything to Lavanya. I have also talked to Yash, my friend who works at IBM. He will be there for both of you. Take care of yourself and give your best.”

“Thanks Papa. Don't worry. I'll take care of myself, give my best, and be at my best!”

Khushi turned around to see her grandfather looking at her. As soon as he saw Khushi, he opened his arms for a hug.

“Baujiiii!” Khushi hugged her Bauji and her Bauji gave her kiss on the forehead.

“Good luck my cherub! Always remember, you are the best!”

Khushi grinned at her Bauji, “Of course Bauji, after all, I am your Khushi!”

“Khushiiiiiiii” came a loud yell from the porch outside.

“Ok, I better run now!”

Khushi ran out to the porch to find Payal and Lavanya standing next to Khushi's BMW.

“Sorry, sorry, I know! But cmon, let's get going now. You can bash me all you want on the way” Khushi said as she came near them.

Lavanya gave a tight smile to her friend, “Khushi, you do know that it's also my first day at IBM and you are making me late as well.” ( Lavanya's dress)

“Sorry La! But it's only a 15 minutes drive. We will be there on time na” Khushi said while pouting her lips and throwing her purse on the back seat.

Payal hugged her little sister and wished her luck!

Thus, finally, at exactly 8:40 AM, Khushi and Lavanya moved out of the Gupta driveway.

Khushi and Lavanya reached IBM exactly at 8:55 AM, but as soon as they neared the elevator to go to the 5^th floor, Khushi remembered that she forgot her purse on the backseat. She told Lavanya that she'll be right back. Khushi ran out to the parking lot to her car. Khushi quickly grabbed her purse and ran to the building. She checked her watch: 8:59 AM. 
Khushi, you are so dead today! Your first day! How can you forget your purse? Hey Devi Mayyia, raksha karna!

Being her clumsy self, Khushi concentrated more on running faster than to her surroundings. Poor Khushi couldn't notice a hard body coming out from the front door. Thumpp!! Khushi hit her delicate face into a tough body! A hand went around her waist trying to balance both of them.  A deep, husky voice saying “What the!!!” entered Khushi's ears. But without sparing a look up to the owner of the voice, Khushi ran inside the door while yelling “Sorrrryyyy” to her back. The elevator opened on the cue and Khushi made her way in.

How was it? 

I would just like to clear few things in the FF. Bauji is Khushi's grandfather from her father's side. Khushi's parents are her biological parents, no adoption here. Lavanya is Khushi and Payal's childhood friend. I also gave hints of few secrets! :)

And for those of you who would like to see exactly how Arnav's look was for the day:

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Chapter 2

Hello everyone!
Here's Chapter 2.  Enjoy reading and leave all your ever lovely comments below with your IF name. Buddy me on IF Mannat27. I accept all Buddy Requests :) 
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Chapter 2

Please note I retain sole ownership of all the works of fiction on this blog so please do not reproduce or alter my work and claim it as your own.

(Background info: The Kapoors were one of the wealthy families in NY, respected for their honesty and loyalty. Vikas Kapoor and Angad Singh Raizada were friends from their college days. While both men were equally successful, they never intermixed their personal life with their professional life. While Vikas had moved to USA to attain success, Angad chose to remain back in India. However, their physical distance never created a distance in their relationship.)

Arnav and NK walked into mansion where Vikas and his wife, Manorama, awaited their arrival. Vikas wore a white kurta pajama, as he always did in the comfort zone of his home, while Manorama was elegantly dressed in a heavily embroidered sky-blue sari, with matching heavy necklace, earrings, and bangles. Manorama rushed to Arnav and embraced him in a tight hug, much to Arnav's discomfort. 
“Hello Hi, Bye Bye! Arnav Bitwa you have growing so muchs. I so happiez todaey.” 
Arnav was feeling suffocated because Manorama still held on to his neck tightly, while NK and Vikas struggled to suppress their laughs. 
Vikas came to Arnav's rescue, “Arre Manorama, let Arnav bitwa come in at least.” 
Manorama left Arnav, but not before pulling his cheeks mercilessly. Arnav touched Vikas's feet, while Vikas gave him a fatherly hug. Vikas asked NK to show Arnav to his room so he could freshen up and later join them in the living room.

After sometime, NK and Arnav walked into the living room. Vikas and Manorama sat together on the big sofa, so Arnav sat on the couch on their right, and NK took the loveseat couch in the corner of the living room so he can check his FB.

“So Arnav bitwa, how was London Business School?” asked Vikas.

“It was nice Uncle. Good programs with perfect essentials. Thanks for suggesting it” answered Arnav with a content look on his face, with a hint of a smile.

“Oh no bitwa, you are just like NK to me. Now since your MBA is done, what do you plan on doing in USA?”

“Well Uncle, I received job offers from multiple companies here.”

“Oh, that's really good beta. Do you plan on joining your father in India after getting experience here?”

“No. I have always helped Dad in his business, but now I want to become something on my own merit.”

Before Arnav and Vikas could continue their discussion, Manorama interrupted them.
 “Arnav bitwa, leave all thiz things. Tell me, did you findz a girl yet or are you singalz stells?” 
Arnav was absolutely astonished, not knowing what to say next.

The changing course of the discussion instantly grabbed NK's attention, and he looked at Arnav and said, “Yes Arnav, did you find me a bhabhi yet or do I have to do all the work for you?”

NK knew Arnav was getting annoyed, but being the gentleman he has to be in front of Manorama and Vikas, Arnav gave a disapproving glare to NK and politely answered, “No Aunty, not yet. I have a lot to do before!”

“Arre Manorama, rehne bhi do abhi! (Arre Manorama, let it be now!) Arnav, so have you decided on where you are going to work?” said Vikas.

Arnav, relieved to have the discussion dismissed, gladly answered his Uncle, “Yes, I am going to IBM tomorrow.”

“IBM it is then. It's a great place to start your career. What's your job by the way?”

“IBM has recently launched a new project to train interns, and I will be heading the project, while working along with the interns.”

And the conversation went on and on, but Manorama just left the two to talk and left to see over the dinner preparations. NK meanwhile was busy chatting with his multiple girlfriends on FB.

After dinner, the Kapoors and Arnav retired to their respective rooms.

Arnav was given a room a little further away from others as he preferred to keep his privacy. Arnav's room was almost the same as it was back in India, only difference being the vivid paint and too many show pieces decorating almost every corner of the room. No doubt, Manorama Aunty designed this. Well, I should catch up on my sleep now. A new start tomorrow. 
Giving a rest to his thoughts, Arnav drifted off to sleep.

Somewhere in NYC at the same time:

Haye devi mayyia, rakhsa karna! (Ohh Goddess Mother, protect me!) I don't know how I am going to handle everything tomorrow. Couldn't they have just informed me few days in advance? Wow, what a set of professional people they must be, informing me of such a big thing a day before it's due. Mean, mean, mean people. Devi Mayyia, why do you even create such people? I know, I know, whole balance of things, but one day notice, seriously? Devi Mayyia, you are not pranking on me, are you? Well, of course you are not! Please help me na, only you can help me now. I have no idea how to do this. It's my very first time. If someone had told me a week ago that something like this would be happening in my life, I would have burst into uncontrollable laughter. But how am I supposed to handle everything now? 

Dressed in a simple light pink cotton suit with white dots, her dupatta tied on her waist, her hair in a tight braid, her hands rapidly frying jalebis, dipping them in the syrup, and placing them on the plate. Her white creamy complexion shining even while she was sweating, her slim curves beautifully showing in her tight suit, and her eyebrows drawn together, while her forehead held worry lines. Her thoughts and her well-trained hands were disturbed by an annoyed look from her sister, Payal.

“What exactly are you doing here when you should be sleeping by now?” Payal said.

“Jijiiiiii, please just let me finish this and then I'll go to sleep.” [Jiji means sister.]

“Have you gone mad? Stop making all these jalebis! Thank goodness, Maa Papa are not home and Bauji is already sleeping. And why are you so worked up, Khushi? It's such a wonderful opportunity for you.”

“Jiji, even I know it's a great opportunity, but I don't even know how they work. Let alone that, I have never had a job in my life, and now I have to go there. Couldn't they just inform me few days earlier on for me to prepare?”

“Khushiii, your principal did tell you that you were amongst the four chosen. You knew it from nearly two weeks.”

“So what if I knew from the past two weeks? And I told you na, I thought the principal was kidding. He's a new principal, even though he looks very friendly and all, but who knows how he is. So I didn't take him seriously until they sent me the official letter today with the time for tomorrow itself?”

While Khushi was busy with her monologue, Payal had turned off the gas and before Khushi could notice anything, Payal literally dragged her to her room. Khushi tried to stop Payal, but Payal continued to pull Khushi without so much as glancing at her.

Once in the room, Payal made Khushi sit on the bed, softly kissed her forehead, cupped her cheek and said, “Khushi, don't worry. If you genuinely feel that this opportunity would do good for your life ahead, then only go for it. Otherwise, you can talk to your principal about it.”

Khushi just sat there looking at Payal. Payal just gave a little smile to her and headed off to her room.

Well, Jiji is right. I should only do this if I am confident that it will be beneficial for my career. And it is. All set then. Khushi Kumari Gupta will do this internship at IBM! After all, if anything was to go wrong, my Devi Mayyia is always there to help me. Love you Devi Mayyia. 
On this happy note, even Khushi retired to her bed, completely exhausted from making almost three dozen jalebis, while content with her decision.

Arnav and Khushi slept peacefully in their respective rooms, unaware of the roller coaster their lives were about to take. Both slept with content and serene smiles adorning their faces.

How was it? It's longer than the first chapter at least. 

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Important Note

Hello all this is Ravneet here :) #*CrazyRavneet-_-*  I just want to say a big thank to all who actually followed this Blog. Please continue giving your love to Mannat27.

Technically I helped her make this Blog and I forgot to check the settings to allow Anonymous people to comment here.

Now I have fixed it so you all could freely comment with your IF name. Yes I know the password for this account.

Me and Mannat do not share the account, since I just helped her make the Blog, I know the password.

Continuing viewing her work and of course my work too *Wink* *Wink*

It will be a blast knowing you all here and I am so happy that this FF is dedicated to me :) I love Mannat for all her encouragement she gave me and so I will also support her...

I wish her the best and I wish to see you all encouraging her to write...

Signing Off...

- Ravneet <3

Chapter 1

Here is the first chapter! 
Enjoy and do comment below along with your IF name. Buddy me on IF Mannat27. I accept all Buddy Requests :) 
Follow my Blog as well <3

Enjoy! <3

Chapter 1

Please note I retain sole ownership of all the works of fiction on this blog so please do not reproduce or alter my work and claim it as your own.

The plane landed at the John F. Kennedy International Airport. Dressed in a three piece black suit with a black tie, he walked out with his luggage in one hand, while busy with his phone in the other hand. As he made his way out of the crowd, he looked around until his eyes came in contact with his friend, who was waving his hand at him. He walked toward his friend with a genuine smile gracing his lips. As he neared him, his friend ran up to him and caught him in a brotherly hug. Not really fond of PDA, he waited for his friend to complete his welcoming hug. As soon as his friend looked up at him, he raised his eyebrows.

“Yeah, yeah, I know, but cmon yaar, we are meeting after nearly two years. You can't expect me to not even give you a plain hug, Arnav.”

“Hmm, can we go now, NK? I am tired” said Arnav.

“Yes boss! The car is at service along with your dutiful friend” said NK while giving his friend a salute with his right hand, while NK's eyes gleamed mischievously. Arnav smirked at his crazy friend and motioned him to proceed first.

The ride towards NK's house was filled with NK's long monologues with Arnav's nods, hmms, and small answers. NK stopped his monologues knowing very well that Arnav wasn't really paying attention since he was most likely already sleeping with his eyes closed and his head resting against the windowpane.

The sun was setting by the time they finally got home. As soon as they entered the gates, NK placed his hand on Arnav's shoulder, “Arnav, get up, we are home.”

Arnav opened his eyes, blinking a couple of times to adjust his vision, he looked at NK turning off the car, and then at the mansion in front of him. The Kapoor's mansion. It was a magnificent mansion, built and adorned with complete perfection. A fountain greeting the visitors, while the mansion itself giving a warm welcome aura, even though it was surely an epitome of great wealth.

Arnav got down from the car, while NK was already handing the car keys to the chauffeur to park it. NK told the chauffeur to bring in the luggage.  On the cue, Arnav spoke, “No NK, I'll take it myself.” Before NK could say something otherwise, Arnav pulled his luggage out of the car and began walking towards the house. Knowing his friend's habit of doing everything by himself, NK just shrugged and walked next to him.

The picture below is the Kapoor Mansion!

How was it? I know it's really small, but the second chapter will be longer. I just wanted to give a little glimpse before actually proceeding with the story. Leave all your lovely and beautiful comments with your IF name below! 

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Synopsis

Here is the Synopsis... enjoy and do comment below along with your IF name. Buddy me on IF Mannat27 I accept all Buddy Requests :) Follow my Blog as well <3

Enjoy <3

Synopsis

Please note I retain sole ownership of all the works of fiction on this blog so please do not reproduce or alter my work and claim it as your own.

Two strangers brought together by circumstances.   While they initially resist even looking at each other, destiny plays against them and a beautiful friendship begins to flourish.  A friendship as deep as a sea, as serene as a sunset, as blooming as a rose.  Arnav Singh Raizada and Khushi Kumari Gupta become best friends.  Two people who never shared their deepest feelings with anyone else begin to bond.  But what can they do when their hearts begin to beat for each other?  What can they possibly do when they realize that the feelings in their heart are nothing but genuine?  Should they accept their feelings and let it ruin their friendship?  Should they lose their friendship due to their love?  Or should they sacrifice their love to keep their friendship alive?

Curiosity of Love & Friendship....Which one will it be?

How was it? Let me know... leave your beautiful comments below with IF name :)