Chapter 13B

Hello my readers!
Chapter 13B is finally here. The next chapter will be 14, no more parts to this chapter.

Happy reading & enjoy!  
:)

Chapter 13B

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.

Amar, Garima, Bauji, and Payal sneaked into Khushi's room at exactly 11:30pm. They all knew that she will be sleeping deeply right now. They quietly decorated her entire room with fairy lights, stars, and crystal chains. Everyone was being as discrete and quiet as possible, and they had only 2 minutes till the clock strikes twelve. Payal rushed out of the room and brought a black forest small size cake. The clock chimed lightly twelve times to mark midnight.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY KHUSHI!!!!!!” Everyone yelled loudly and Khushi woke up with a jerk. The sudden sound scared her and she sat on her bed, her eyes wide open, and her jaw dropped.

Amar and Garima looked at Bauji, motioning him to go to her. Bauji sat next to Khushi and lightly patted her head.

“Happy Birthday my cherub!”

Khushi looked at her Bauji in astonishment. She looked around at everyone with an awestruck expression, and at her room, slowly capturning the stars, the lights, the crystals, and the cake sitting on a table right ahead of her. Even though this was a yearly routine, Khushi was always amazed at how her family did so much for her. Her eyes welled up, as she gave everyone a grateful smile. Everyone came forward and shared a big family hug. Khushi cut the cake and fed it to Bauji first, then Amar, Garima, and Payal. Everyone gave her gifts and blessings. The Gupta household finally drifted into a peaceful sleep.

~*~

Khushi woke up at 8:00am, as the sun was shinning in her room and a beautiful smile graced her face. She took her shower and dressed up. She only wore kohl in her eyes and a nude lip-gloss on her lips. She was dressed in the Anarkali Garima gave her yesterday and made her promise to wear today. With the dress, she was wearing the earrings gifted by Payal. (Khushi's dress)

She walked down the stairs to find her family already sitted around the dining table, waiting for her. Her family wished her once again and all began their lavishing breakfast prepared by Garima.

“Khushi, Bauji planned the day for you today.” said Amar.

“Really? Bauji, what are we going to do first?” said an overly-excited Khushi.

Her Bauji chuckled a bit and said, “First, hand me your phone.”

Khushi innocently gave her phone to her Bauji and waited for him to answer her first question.

“Now, I keep the phone and we all are going to be out for the day. So, you will know soon, my Gudiya.” Her Bauji answered.

“That's not fair, Bauji. At least tell me one thing we will be doing. Please?” Khushi pouted.

“Well, we will be eating out.” Her Bauji laughed as he saw an annoyed expression on Khushi's face, but she also joined him and began laughing.

The family spent the morning shopping in Little Italy, Chinatown, and Soho. As the elders took a break to rest, Khushi insisted and took Payal along with her for a hot-air balloon ride. The family gathered for a lunch at Serendipity, followed by a huge dessert. Khushi ate her dessert, followed by half of Payal's, while the elders only ordered 1 and shared it amongst the three of them.

While Khushi and Payal wanted to watch a movie and shop in Greenwich Village, the elders suggested to go home since Bauji was exhausted.

“Then you all go home. Jiji and I'll come back in the evening.” Khushi said to her father.

“But dear, how will you two come? We only brought one car.” Amar said with concern in his voice.

“Ohho Papa, we'll hire a cab na. Now don't decline this. It's my birthday, so please?” She looked at her father with pleading eyes.

“Okay okay. But be home by 7pm. We will be waiting.”

“Yes, Papa. Thank you.”

Khushi hugged everyone and waved them bye. Payal and Khushi went to a nearby cinema and watched Monster Inc, a comedy animated movie that Khushi had already watched multiple times but still wanted to watch on her birthday.

It wasn't until they were back to shopping in Greenwich Village that a familiar car attracted Khushi's attention. A white Audi R8 was parked at a nearby parking meter. Since Payal had already entered one of the shops, Khushi went toward the car to check whether it really was the same car or not. She tried to peek inside the car, but no luck due to the black mirrors. She looked around to see whether the owner of the car was nearby, but people seemed to pass by without any interest toward the car. She walked around the car, trying to get some indication to prove her doubts. She went to the front mirror and tried to look inside. Though the view was minimal, it surely was familiar.

Someone placed a hand on her shoulder and she jerked around, scared of being caught. But seeing Payal, she sighed in relief.

“Jiji, you scared me!!”

“Why are you snooping around someone's car?”

“Erm....I.....the car....”

“Khushi, what are you doing? What if the owner saw you?”

“Then it would have been better. That's what I was doing. Trying to see whether I know who the car belongs to!”

“Are you serious, Khushi? Don't tell me that peeking in cars is your new way of celebrating your birthday!”

“No, Jiji. Actually, this car is very familiar, that's why I was....”

Payal held Khushi's hand and led her towards the nearby cafe.

“Khushi, I don't want either one of us to get into trouble today. And you are just hungry and tired. So, let's eat something, okay?”

Khushi didn't reply back to Payal as she was still looking back at the car, trying to put her finger on where she had seen the car.

What both Khushi and Payal failed to notice was a figure, hiding behind a shop board, observing their each and every move, though the figure was not close enough to hear their conversation. Dressed in a dark maroon three-piece suit, a tall man, with molten eyes which were a shade of chocolate in the sun now. Arnav Singh Raizada.

*Flashback*

Before leaving his cabin, ASR had quickly looked through the files he kept in the last drawer of his table. He quickly jotted down something on the notepad, tore the paper and placed it in his coat pocket.  After a quick excuse to Aman, Arnav stormed out of the building.

As soon as he got in his car, he entered the address in the car GPS and drove at an insane speed to his destination. He surely broke the speeding rules, but luckily there were no cops on the roads today. He parked his car, a little before his destination, but near enough to have the full view. He waited in the car, even though his patience was running very low. While waiting, he began to observe his destination. It wasn't a mansion like the KM, but it was beautiful nonetheless. It felt very homely, as if a warmth was radiating from the house itself. Yes, it was very well-maintained and surely, the house gave away the affluence of the owners. (House)

A car entered the driveway of the same house, and two men and a women stepped out. It looked like as if they were all busy in a friendly conversation, while pulling out numerous shopping bags. Arnav finally stepped out of the car, just to make sure whether he missed anyone else exiting the car. But the three people walked in to the house, dismissing Arnav's doubts.

Where is Khushi now?She isn't at her house, then where can she be?

Arnav got in his car and closed the door with a loud bang. He fished out his cell-phone from his pocket and dialed a number. A mere 15 minutes later, his phone rang. Few seconds later, Arnav swerved his car to his next destination. The next destination took a hour to reach, since it was on the other side of the city and the traffic was also high now. Arnav parked his car and began to look in various shops. He searched thoroughly but he still couldn't get a single glimpse of her.

I know she's here. He said it. I....I can feel her. Where are you, Khushi?

Just as Arnav was walking back to his car, the vision in front froze him. The one and only Khushi Kumari Gupta was walking around his car, trying to peek through the black windows. An amused smile formed on his lips as he took in her confused, yet resolute expression. He kept admiring her beauty as she continued her quest.

How can someone look so beautiful without even trying? A fairy sent by heavens. A perfect fairy.

A girl, maybe older than Khushi by few years, approached Khushi. Arnav quickly stood behind a shop board to avoid being seen. He observed them conversing and then leaving.

*Flashback ends*

Arnav followed them into the cafe, while maintaining enough distance from them. As he entered the cafe, he spotted them sitting in one of the far corners, away from others. Khushi's back was toward him, while the girl with her, clearly in his view, was talking to Khushi. He went toward their table, without looking directly at the table. Arnav took a table on their diagonal left, but a pillar helped him in hiding himself from their view. Finally, he was close enough to be able to hear them and look at Khushi without any disruptions.

“Jiji, any progress?”

Jiji? She's Khushi's sister?

“Nope! I don't think he has enough guts.” A frown appeared on Payal's face.

“Oh Jiji, why are you worrying over such a minor thing? Maybe, he is just busy. Being in Special Forces isn't an easy job.”

“I know Khushi. I also know how he works. You know we worked together whenever his team needed forensic help. But it's not that!”

“Jiji, just calm down. Tell me what the problem is and I'll help my sweet Jiji as much as I can.”

Ugh! Don't girls have any better topics to talk about than such stuff?!!

“Khushi, I don't think Akashji will ever take the next step for our relationship. He is a very stern and strict officer, and I respect him for what he does. But when it comes to me, I don't think he'll ever move up a level from here.”

What the! Akash?! It could be someone else as well, right?

“But Jiji, he already proposed to you and you accepted. What else is left?”

“Well, he just isn't keen on telling his aunt and uncle about me. He doesn't have anybody other than them. It's only because of them that he is at such a good position in his career. But he just doesn't know of their expectations about his personal life, marriage, or even how they will react.”

It surely does sound a lot like him. Are they talking about Akash Akash or some other Akash?

“Why don't you ask him to come over right now? I am sure that if we both talk to him, he'll surely understand.”

“No, Khushi. He must be busy, and it's your day today, so....”

“Exactly! Now if I am saying, then you have to call him here. Please Jiji. I am sure he won't refuse me on my birthday.” Khushi winked at Payal and a wide smile formed her face.

WHAT THE!!!! Birthday? Khushi's? What the! How the! Why don't I know anything? Khushi....

Payal took out her cell and began to dial Akash's number. Khushi's smile decreased a bit, as her heartbeats increased. She felt as if someone just called her. Arnav? No, how can he be here? Amanji must have informed him of my leave. I just hope he's not angry.

“Khushi? Khushi?” Payal touched Khushi's hand to get her attention.

“Huhh? You said something, Jiji?”

“Here I am talking to you and you went off to your Lala land!”

“Ohho Jiji. I am here only. Tell me, what did he say?”

“He said that he's here nearby for some work. He'll join us in few minutes.”

CRAP!! What am I supposed to do now? What if he's the same Akash? What if he told Khushi that I asked him to find out her whereabouts? DAMN!

*Flashback*

“Office Raizada speaking.”

“Akash? This is Arnav. Arnav Singh Raizada.”

“Bhai? (Brother?) How are you, Bhai? NK told me of your arrival, but I have just been too busy. Sorry, Bhai!”

“It's fine, Akash. Even I was busy. For now, can you do me a favor?”

“Favor? Yes, sure. Anything for you, Bhai!”

“I am messaging you a name with her details. I need her current location!”

“Her? I mean, of course Bhai.”

Arnav disconnected the call, messaged Akash, and waited for the results. 15 minutes later, his phone rang again.

“Yes, Akash?”

“Bhai, she's at Greenwich Village in NYC. But Bhai I think I....”

“Thanks Akash! I'll talk to you later.”

Arnav cut the call, swerved his car, and sped up toward Greenwich Village.

*Flashback ends*

Arnav looked back at Khushi and Payal. Both were busy in their discussion on a random topic, so he sneaked out from his hiding and went out of the cafe quickly.  

So, how was it?

Let me know what you think about it!  Leave your comments with your IF name below.

I probably won't be updating until Wednesday.  I just have a hectic schedule everyone!

But I hope it gives everyone the time to catch up with the past few updates.  

Thank you! 

Chapter 13A

Hello everyone!
I am finally back with an update!  I am sorry to those who have been waiting, but it has simply been a very hectic week for me.  
THANK YOU all for the amazing response to the last chapter.  I really appreciate it! Gift for everyone, at the end of this update! :)
I have divided this chapter into two parts due to the lack of space.  I will update the second part to this chapter tomorrow!

Happy reading, everyone! :)

Chapter 13A

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.

As soon as they walked out of the elevator, Aman came up to Arnav and the men went ahead for the meeting, while Khushi went to her cubicle and began to work on her assignments. Khushi finished her assignments just as her phone vibrated in her purse. Since the working hours were technically over, she answered Payal's call.

“Hi Jiji. Are you already home?”

“Nah, I am still at work. Just a 15-min break.”

“Oh, okay then. I was just about to head home. But why did you call?”

“Khushi, you don't remember what tomorrow is, do you?”

Khushi mentally smacked herself and placed her hand on her forehead.

“Ohh....actually....I....it....I didn't....”

“You forgot, right?”

“Yeah Jiji. I don't know how I....”

“Khushi, you remember every single person's birthday, then how can you forget your birthday every year?”

“Even I don't know Jiji. And it's not like I intentionally do it. It just happens. And why would I want to forget it? I just....”

“Khushi! My break is about to end. I called to tell you that you are not working tomorrow. No excuses!” Payal said sternly.

“But Jiji, I....”

“It's Bauji's wish, Khushi.”

Since Khushi had never declined anything her Bauji said, she agreed and disconnected the call. Now, Khushi was more confused on how to talk to Arnav since he was still in his meeting. She packed her bag and held her assignments in her hand to submit. Just then, she saw Aman walking toward ASR's cabin. She quickly rushed to him.

“Excuse me, Amanji?”

“Oh, Khushiji. Yes, did you need something?”

Giving her assignments, she said, “This is the next set. Actually, I wanted to know how long the meeting will take?”

“I don't know, Khushiji. Sir is still in there with some delegates. Can I take a message for him?”

Khushi contemplated on the thought for a second and then smiled.

“I wanted to know whether I can take a leave for tomorrow.”

“Oh! Well, Sir makes all decisions. But I don't see why not since you have already finished your assignments.”

“Thank you, Amanji! Thank you so much. If there is anything that you or Ar....erm....Sir might need me for, just give me a call.”

“Of course, Khushiji. Don't worry about it. What reason should I give for the leave to Sir then?”

“Actually, tomorrow is....”

Aman's phone went off right at the moment with ASR's name flashing on it.

“I have to run now Khushiji. I completely forgot what I came for. Bye!”

Aman quickly ran into the cabin, took the files he needed, and ran back to the Conference Room where Arnav was. Khushi's eyes followed Aman until he disappeared from her view.

Laad Governor! Devi Mayyia, just look at how poor Amanji gets scared of him. Hmph!

Khushi proceeded to take her stuff and move toward the exit, but something caught her eye.

Where's Lavanya? I didn't even apologize to her for leaving without her yesterday. I hope she isn't angry with me. But, where is she now?

After looking around for a few moments, Khushi walked out and drove home. Her evening went by with her family planning for the next day and what all they will do for her. Like every year, this was the only time when Khushi simply sat with everyone, listening to them, instead of talking herself. Even though she was always pampered, her birthday was one day when everyone would go out of their comfort zone and even do crazy stuff to make her day the most memorable each year.

At night, Khushi laid in her bed and a blissful smile adorned her face. The way her life was going, the way everything was turning about, she couldn't have dreamt of anything better. Till now, she had never really needed anyone other than her supportive family, not even friends. In the name of friends, she had Lavanya, who was also their neighbor. On the other hand, she had Payal, with whom she had shared her deepest secrets. Her Bauji always took part in her mischief, and he was always her partner in “crime.” Her parents, a wonderful and loving couple, were her role models. Her life had been perfect.

But now, her heart desired for more. The reason was only one. Arnav! No, it wasn't that she wanted anything from him. But it was more of that she wanted him to have more. Somehow, within her heart, she could see the pain in his eyes. From the first time she saw him, a desire to fill his life with happiness had entered her heart. She knew he looked like a cold-hearted, ruthless man. But she always knew that there was more to him. He still was an “enigma” for her.

Can you call me Arnav?

Those five words had struck the daylights out of her. She had completely forgotten where she was standing, what she was doing there, and the only thing she knew were those five words which were reverberating in her ears. She was replaying the time he had actually said those words, just to make sure that he was actually asking such a thing from her. She wanted to ask him again, but she was just frozen and her voice was stuck in her throat. When she sat in the car and saw that smirk on his face, she knew that he had actually said it. Her heart was dancing with joy and she was trying hard to suppress the urge to dance in front of him in his car!

Khushi smiled widely, remembering the smile on his face when she said his name. She felt as though she had fulfilled the reason for her living. With every passing second, her determination to keep him always smiling was increasing. She knew that she would happily sacrifice everything for his smile. It simply felt right. Simply perfect.

ღღღ

9:10AM @ IBM:

“AMAN, GET ME A BLACK COFFEE RIGHT NOW!”

Aman hurriedly placed the phone on the receiver, ran to the cafeteria, made a strong black coffee and ran to ASR's cabin. He stabled himself and knocked like a gentleman.

“ENTER”

Though the cup in his hand was shaking, he placed it on the table before he could spill it. He looked at his boss, who was standing with his back to him. Tense shoulders, stiff body, and the only sound was of a terrified breathing and a fast, furious breathing.

“Ssirrr....yourr co..coffee.” Aman finally managed to get the words out of his mouth.

“I.need.expenditure.reports.NOW.” Arnav gritted through his teeth in a deadly voice as he turned around.

Aman looked away from his, not wanting to die of an heart attack anytime soon. He picked the files from the shelf nearby, his hands shaking, his body slightly shivering, but he finally found the correct file. Aman, without looking, gave the file to ASR, who snatched it from him.

“OUT!”

Aman scurried out of the cabin before ASR could breath in and out. He ran to his desk and breathed deeply for a few minutes as he sat down in his chair.

Ammi, if it weren't for the salary, I would have resigned the second day he began to work here. Please God, help me!

~*~

Arnav looked at the clock on the wall. 9:42! Where is this girl? She has never been this late! Should I call her? No! What will I say? Should I ask Aman? No. Yes. Why not!

Today, no matter how strong the coffee was, it simply wasn't helping. He picked up the cabin phone and dialed Aman's extension.

“Come to my cabin.” A steady, yet frustrated voice left his lips.

Moments later, a visibly terrified Aman entered the room, yet again.

“Yessss Sirrrr?”

“Where is Khushi?”

“She....tookk..leavve....Sirrr.”

“What the! With whose permission?”

“Actually....Sirrr...she....”

“Aman, say the damn sentence in one go and quit stammering!”

“ShewantedtoaskyouforaleavebutyouwerebusyinmeetingsoIsaidyes!”

Arnav raised his eyebrows, trying to grasp the gibberish language Aman had just used.

“When I said in one go, I meant audibly.”

“She wanted to ask you for a leave but you were busy in meeting, so I said yes.”

“When?”

“Yesterday, Sir. At the end of the day.”

“Why?”

“I couldn't ask her.”

“Why was I not informed?”

“I tried to tell you in the evening, Sir, but you were busy with a client call.”

Arnav again raised his eyebrows and gave him a “so-it's-my-mistake-now” look.

“I am sorry, Sir. I must have forgotten. Sorry.”

“Leave.”

“Thank you, Sir. I meannn, yess Sirrr.”

Aman walked in a composed manner to the door but ran to his desk as soon as the door closed.

Arnav got up from his chair and paced up and down in his cabin.

How dare she? How dare she take a day off without telling me? I don't pay anyone to be out whenever they wish to. Doesn't she have any sense of responsibility? What difference does it make if she finished her work already? Couldn't there be an emergency? What if she is needed? DAMN IT!

He picked the desk phone once again.

“Call Miss Gupta and tell her to contact me urgently!”

He placed the phone on the receiver without waiting for a reply.

Two minutes later, his phone rang. He looked at the number and picked the phone at the second bell.

“Speak!”

“Sirrrr, she....”

“Audibly, without stammering!”

“Sir, she is not picking her phone. I called her three times.”

Arnav placed the phone on the receiver, loudly, and he began pacing once again.

Where the hell in she? She obviously had it planned, so she couldn't be sick. Then, why didn't she tell me in the car yesterday? She can talk a mile a second about random things, but NOT inform me of IMPORTANT things!

Since he only had one meeting planned for the day, which was fortunately at 10:30, he finished his work and stormed out of the building with a simple explanation to Aman: ASR had personal work!

So, how was it?  
Comment and share your thoughts everyone!
Here is your gift:

Chapter 12

Hello my lovely readers!

One thing I want to make clear after the last update:  Shyam is NOT lusting for Khushi.  He surely is a complicated character, bit shady, but he does not mean harm to Khushi.  At least, not intentionally!

I have also cancelled the comment code.  So no one should be having problems due to that!  Let me know if there is anything else.

Enjoy! :)

Chapter 12

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 parked his car outside Olive Garden, since that was the only restaurant in their route back to IBM.  Khushi immediately unbuckled her seatbelt and stepped out.  While Arnav had just locked the car, Khushi was already going up the steps to the entrance.  Arnav simply followed her, thinking that if she is this eager to enter, then she will probably finish her lunch faster and they can leave sooner.  But of course, he didn't know Khushi well enough yet.

ASR entered the restaurant to find Khushi already seated at a table and ordering her food.   He sat on the chair opposite her and Khushi faced him with a smile.

“Do you want to order for yourself or should I order?”

“No. Just soup and salad with breadsticks.” Arnav said while turning toward the waiter.

As the waiter left, Arnav looked back at Khushi to find her looking at him with her mouth slightly open and her eyes widened.

“What?”

“You are just going to have some soup and salad with those bland breadsticks for LUNCH?”

“Yeah, why?”

“But you only had some cake today. You yourself said that you didn't even have breakfast. How do you even survive with eating so little?”

“Excuse me?” said Arnav, feeling a little offended since no one had ever really pointed toward his diet like this.   But right at that moment, their table began to fill up with their orders.   Arnav just stared at the food pilling up in front of him, his eyebrows rising up in astonishment.   On their table lay, a plate of Bruschetta, Caprese Flatbread, Lasagna Fritta, and Smoked Mozzarella Fonduta.

“Sir, Ma'am, enjoy your appetizers.  Main course will be served shortly.”  The waiter said and left.

Moments later, Arnav still sat in the position and watched Khushi pile up her plate and eat almost everything as if she had been hungry since the last week.  He couldn't comprehend that how can such a slim girl digest so much without gaining any fat.  Khushi, on the other hand, was enjoying her food merrily.  She was famished since the last time she ate was four hours ago.  Yes, she did have a quick breakfast, but she was too upset to eat well in the morning.  Then she only had that piece of a cake, so she obviously had to eat now.  She finally looked up at Arnav and stopped eating.

“Arre, your plate is empty. You haven't even touched anything. Don't worry, I won't mind if you eat from my order. Here, try this Lasagna Fritta, you'll like it.” She offered with a smile on her face.

“Did you order main course for yourself as well?” said Arnav, trying to ignore her offer.

“What? I am offering Lasagna to you and you are worried about my main course.   Oh, now I understand, you don't want me to go hungry.   But don't worry na.   I ordered enough for me for the main course as well.  I'll be fine.  But try this na?”

Arnav gulped, looking at the Lasagna and the cheese.

“No. I don't like it. I'll just have my soup and....”

“Salad with breadsticks.  I know, but those are the most regular things to be eaten.  You should try different things always.  So, here, try this.”

Khushi placed a Fritta on his plate and waited expectantly for him to eat.  Arnav kept looking at the Fritta and Khushi, unable to decide what to do.  Not wanting to show his weakness to her, he finally managed to take a small bite.   Just seeing the food going in his mouth made Khushi content and she resumed her eating.  She failed to notice the disgusted expression on Arnav's face, how he was having trouble chewing that thing in his mouth, and having difficulty pushing it down his throat.

Khushi looked up once again to make sure whether he is eating or not and found his face wrinkled in disgust.  Her face filled with concern and worry for him, unable to understand the reasons.

“What happened, Sir?   You didn't like it?   Is something wrong?”

Arnav immediately shot an angry glare at Khushi, not caring about anything but that thing gliding down his throat.   Khushi scrunched back in her seat, slightly scared of what wrong she had committed now.

“Sir?”

Seeing the fear in her eyes, Arnav looked away from her since he, once again, didn't want to vent on her without her fault.

“I....I....erm....don't like it.” He finally managed to utter, without looking back at her, not wanting her to poke fun at him.

“But why, Sir?” said Khushi, straightening in her seat, curious to know the mystery of why anyone would not like Lasagna Fritta.

Arnav shot an annoyed look to Khushi, but spoke, “I don't know. I just don't like cheese.  It's too gooey.”

Khushi's frown turned upside down and she began to laugh uncontrollably.

“You....Arnav....Singh..Raizada....don't....like....cheese.....” She finally managed to speak along with her laughter.

“KHUSHI! ” A harsh and a steel-cold voice left Arnav's lips.

Khushi tried to stifle her laughter, but was quiet unsuccessful.

“FINE!  You enjoy your lunch. I am leaving! ” Arnav said and stood up to leave.

Attempting to stop him, Khushi stood up and held his wrist.

“Oh, I am sorry, Sir.  I didn't want to upset you.   I just never knew someone who didn't like cheese like this.” She said, with a genuine concern for him and honesty in her words.

“Well, I don't!”

“Sorry na? Please?”

Arnav looked at Khushi's pouted face and forgot his anger in her innocence. As Khushi felt his expressions relax, she held his hand and made him sit again. Though at this moment, Arnav and Khushi actually realized that they were physically touching each other for the first time. Arnav sat in his chair, while Khushi stood beside him, still holding his hand, but both lost in each other's eyes.

A sudden movement on the table abruptly ended their eye-lock. Both instantly let go of their hands and looked at the table. The waiter was replacing the appetizers with the main course. Khushi, nervously, made her way back to her chair and sat down. She looked at Arnav, who was intently looking at the food being laid on the table.

Khushi spoke first, breaking the ice and trying to revert things back to normal, “Well, you don't have to eat Lasagna now. You can enjoy your soup, salad, and breadsticks.” She forced a smile on her face as Arnav looked up at her.

“Uh....yeah.” Arnav gave her a tight smile and began his lunch.

The rest of the lunch resumed in complete silence, other than the occasional sounds of their eating or cutlery. Arnav and Khushi stole glances every once and now, but looked away just as the other looked in either direction.

As lunch ended, the waiter came with the bill and placed it on the table. Both Arnav and Khushi placed their hands on the bill to pick it simultaneously.

“Khushi, I'll pay. Leave it.”

“No, Sir. I'll pay. It's fine.”

“No, Khushi. I will take care of the bill.”

“Sir, I cannot accept that. I always pay even if I go out with my friends.”

“Well, I am your boss and I am paying.”

“I said na, Sir, I'll pay. Why don't you listen?”

“I don't listen? Khushi, you are not listening! I am paying the bill, and that's it!”

“But I always pay my own bill. I am paying it today as well.”

“Khushi, you....”
“Excuse me, Sir? Ma'am?”

“WHAT?” Both said at the same time to the waiter who dared interrupt them.

The waiter quivered a bit at their uproar but held his stance and spoke, “I can arrange for two bills, one for each, according to the orders. If you want, that is.”

Khushi and Arnav both looked at each other, back at the waiter, again at each other, and looked away.

Before Arnav could refuse the waiter, Khushi quickly spoke, “Yes, please. That will be the best option. Thank you!” She gave a warm smile to the waiter, who visibly sighed, took the bill, and went to arrange for two separate bills.

“Khushi, why did you....”

“You were right, Sir. You are my boss, not my friend. So I have no right to pay your bill.” Khushi said with a tight smile, though Arnav did not miss the hurt and disappointment in her voice.

“I didn't....”

“Sir, Ma'am, your bills.”

Without another word, both paid their bills. Khushi avoided even looking at Arnav, while Arnav kept glancing back at her. Khushi quickly stood up and proceeded to the exit, while Arnav followed her.   

As Khushi stood by the car waiting for Arnav to unlock it, he simply stood next to her, intentionally not unlocking it.

“Sir, we are getting late for work.” Khushi said in a steady tone.

“Erm....actually....can I ask a favor from you?”

Khushi looked up at Arnav, whose eyes held a strange warmth at the moment, while his face was still his straight-self.

“Yes, Sir. Anything.”

“Can you call me Arnav?”

Khushi's eyes opened wide, and her jaw dropped down. “WHAT?”

“Why are you surprised, Khushi? If I can call you Khushi, why can't you call me Arnav?” Arnav said as if it was nothing of importance.

“But.....Sir.....I.....you....how....”

“Khushi, only in private. Not in front of the staff.” Saying this, Arnav smiled at Khushi and unlocked the car. He sat in the car and buckled himself when he noticed that Khushi was frozen in the same place, confusion printed all over her face.

“MISS KHUSHI KUMARI GUPTA, GET IN THE CAR RIGHT NOW!” shouted Arnav through the window.

Hearing his roaring voice, Khushi quickly came out of her trance, opened the door, sat down, and buckled herself in less than 10 seconds. She looked at Arnav who was looking ahead but had a smirk playing on his lips now. Arnav began to drive out and to IBM, while Khushi continued to gape at him.

“You can stop staring now, Khushi.”

“Huh?....what?.....ohhhh” stammered Khushi, while she still couldn't look away from him.

Knowing exactly how her mind must be working right now, Arnav looked at her. His face was serious, while his eyes held a hint of guilt.

“I didn't mean to hurt you then.” He again looked away to the road ahead.

“So, you asked for the favor just to seek forgiveness?”

Arnav instantly looked at Khushi, and he saw her lips curved downward in a frown, while her voice again held the same hurt.

“Khushi....no.....I....”

“No?”

“No....I mean.....yes.....but.....” fumbled Arnav, unable to understand how to handle this situation.

“Okay. So does that mean that if in the future, I need to make you do something, I should simply act hurt?”

“WHAT?”

Arnav looked at Khushi, who now had a wide smile on her face, with a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Khushi chuckled and said, “Well, yes, Mr. Raizada. You surely are not an easy man to crack, you know. Since you didn't let me pay the bill, I had to do something to get back at you. And I also knew that you won't be happy to see me angry.” She laughed, looking at his state.

“What the! Khushi! How can you be so childish? And what do you mean by crack?”

“Absolutely nothing, Arnavvv.”

Though Arnav was about to blast her for tricking him, his brain and mind stopped as soon as he heard his name from her mouth. Her soft, sweet voice and his name. It gave him a warm feeling. Just as her touch did. But it was just more intense than the touch even.

Arnav shook his head at her innocence and resumed driving without answering her back. The way back was filled with Khushi's blabbering, Arnav's little responses or none at times, and Aman's phone calls for the meeting for which ASR was late already by 10 minutes.

So, how was it?  

I know, I changed the font.  I just had few people ask for it since they use their phones or smaller devices to read updates, and cursive is not clear enough.  I hope this helps. 

Leave all your lovely comments with your IF name below.  And please let me know if you want updates on IF.  IF updates means you still have to comment on my blog.  It's just more dearer to me. :)

Chapter 11

Hello everyone!
I am back with Chapter 11.  I am also introducing a new banner picture, marking a new beginning to this FF. 
First of all, read the update and let me know what you think about it. 
Happy reading! :)

Chapter 11

He walked to the cafeteria, observing each and every person on his way. Yes, he had those keen and shrewd eyes, the kind which could see within a person and know what that person really is. As he entered the cafeteria, he scanned his eyes to see who else was there. He found a pair of glamorous eyes, with a seductive smile, looking back at him. He gave a sly smile to her and gestured that he'll join in a moment. She gave a small nod back to him and he went towards the helper who always brought him his food.

“Sir, welcome back! I didn't see you yesterday” said the helper.

“I just had some personal work, so took a leave yesterday.”

“Well, ok. Do you want your usual, Sir?”

“Yes, Charlie” He had a genuine smile playing on his lips, a rare sight only held for rare occasions or rare people.

As Charlie was preparing his tray for lunch, he started talking, in his usual friendly way with him.

“You missed a lot yesterday, Sir. Mr. Raizada had quite a temper. His assistant suffered the most, Aman was almost dead tired by the end of the day. But an intern also witnessed his wrath.”

Shyam Manohar Jha chuckled at that. “Wrath, you say? Hmm, that man's personality already gave that away on the first day. By the way, who was the intern?”

“I don't know her name. But I heard the staff talking though. She has also been promoted to be the leader of the team. You must have been informed about it, isn't it Sir?”

“I know who you are talking about then, Charlie. I would say that she deserves the position. Anyway, I'll catch you later.”

Shyam took his tray and went towards Lavanya's table, a sly smile back on his lips, rather than the genuine one. He sat on the chair, facing Lavanya who gave him her seductive smile once again.

“How are you, Sir?”

“Lavanya, I told you earlier as well. You can call me Shyam. I am more comfortable to be on first-name basis.”

“Ohh, I know. But I just didn't want to call you by your first name out in public.” She winked at him to convey her message.

Shyam smirked and changed the topic. “So, your friend Khushi was chosen to be the leader. Aren't you excited about that?”

The smile got wiped off Lavanya's face at the mention of her friend's name.

“Yeah, sure. But I don't think that she will be able to do a good job at it.”

“Well, if I were given the decision, I would have selected you. You surely do deserve more than her.”

Lavanya smiled at Shyam. “Awww, you are such a sweetheart. But yes, you are right. I do deserve more than her. But what difference does it make if she got the position? She also has to sustain it.” Her smiled now got replaced by a wicked smirk.

A sudden glint flashed through Shyam's eyes, though Lavanya missed to understand it.

“Anyways, Sir, I am done with my lunch. I surely don't want anyone to see us together for long. I'll see you in the evening, right?”

“Yeah, I'll be there, same place as yesterday.” He replied with a sly smile on his lips.

While Lavanya left, Shyam's eyes began to have a distant look to them. He recalled the first time he had seen the two friends in the Main Hall.

* Flashback *

He was talking to the directors post-meeting when the interns began to come up to introduce themselves. From the corner of his eyes, he found one of the girls looking at him. He instantly felt a negative vibe hit him, and he knew, just as he always does. The girl was a case of pure selfishness and wickedness. Just as he was observing her, he saw another girl join her. The other girl had an unique aura visible in her very presence. There was a genuineness in her expressions, a honesty in her eyes, and a purity in her very persona. He caught her looking at him and noticed the change of expressions fluttering in her eyes as soon as she looked in his direction.

Before he could analyze it, both of them stood in front of him. While he saw an alluring smile on the first one, he noticed the plastic smile on the second girl. They introduced themselves. He kept his trademark smile upon his face, a smile which deceived all into thinking of him as a friendly and a down-to-earth person. Though Lavanya was going on and on with her introduction, Khushi's eyes were very restless and Shyam knew exactly what she felt in his presence: an intimidation. His eyes followed her leaving the room moments later.

Excusing himself from others, he went back to his desk to ponder on those eyes. He knew she felt intimidated as soon as she had set his eyes upon him. That was what he noticed when he first saw her eyes. But instead of feeling bad, he was actually content to finally have found such a person. Someone who could see through him, to the vileness present in his blood. Till now, everyone used to be convinced with the cover he had on. No one had ever looked beyond. Today, someone had!

Yes, he was vile. He was the worst enemy one could have. But only few people knew what his heart held. He knew Khushi only saw within his mind, not heart. Not that he even expected her to. He knew he was b****rd, an illegitimate child. He hated himself for who he was born to. Even though he had a pitiful childhood, he did not pity himself. He hated himself even more as the memories of his childhood came to him. To get rid of this hate, he would analyze each person coming into his view. As soon as his eyes found another vile person, he would use his shrewdness to make that person vulnerable. So vulnerable that such a person would never use vileness again in his/her life.

That's what he felt when he saw Lavanya. He knew who she was from within. But then, as soon as he saw Khushi with Lavanya, he felt something he hadn't felt in a long time. He felt protective toward her, almost as if his very soul cared for her. He didn't not feel attracted or any such thing for Khushi, instead it was more of a feeling a brother had for his sister. Khushi reminded him of memories he had buried back in his heart. Memories which held a joy from his childhood and an escape he had used always to save his soul from turning completely evil.

He had observed them keenly and knew that Lavanya would never do any good to Khushi, and for that reason, he had instantly decided upon a plan to be placed into action over the next few days. Shyam had decided then and there as to what cards he would be playing next, and he will win, just as he always had.

* Flashback ends *

Shyam looked back around the cafeteria to find it almost deserted other than few occupants. According to his plan, he had been extra-friendly towards Lavanya. He also accepted her seductive ways, just to have his plan move forward. Unknowingly, she was making his plan work without any efforts from his side. He had began to meet her outside of office, though it had only been one day. Shyam was going to keep meeting her, but without crossing any lines and having their relationship progress physically, he wanted it to progress emotionally. He knew exactly where it would hurt her the most and how exactly would she be defeated. The only thing that worried him was Khushi and he just hoped that she wouldn't interfere, not before he accomplished what he intended to. He quickly finished his lunch and went back to work, satisfied with the progress in his plan so far.

~*~

Arnav and Khushi had gone to Mr. Heinlein's office, about 45-minutes farther away from IBM. They used Arnav's car since he wouldn't drive any other car or let anyone else drive, Khushi in this case. The meeting was a success, just as Arnav wanted to see it. This success marked Khushi's efficiency for her position. It was kind of a test to see whether she was suitable for this position or not. Once Mr. Heinlein had congratulated her, a wide smile had taken place on Khushi's face. Arnav acted nonchalantly, even though he was happy inwardly.

As soon as they sat in Arnav's car and began their journey back to IBM, Khushi set her eyes on Arnav, waiting to hear something from him as well.

I know that he won't actually say anything much, but a simple “Congrats” or “Good job” won't really lessen his ego, would it Devi Mayyia? Hmph, he is still driving without even glancing once back at me. He didn't look at me since the meeting. Not once did his statue-straight face change. Laad Governor!

Arnav was observing the expressions on her face, though for a change, she went back and forth between pleading and disappointment. He bit his inner-cheek to stop a smile threatening to make its way on his face. He knew she was still staring at him, and even though he was enjoyed how she pouted like a child, for some reason, he wasn't able to bear the disappointment on her face.

“Nice work, Khushi.” Arnav said his words as indifferently as he could at the moment.

Khushi's face immediately brightened and a big, wide grin became visible on her lips.

“Thank you thank you thank youuuuu, Sir! I thought you would never say it, but thank you! Loads of thanks to you Devi Mayyia. You finally made him say it!”

Arnav looked at Khushi, amused at her innocence and her madness. Pagal.

He resumed driving, as Khushi looked out the window, but he could tell she was still busy in her self-talk through the gestures her hands made subconsciously. She suddenly turned towards him, and he quickly straightened himself and pretented to be driving very attentively.

“Sir, I am really hungry. Can we please have our lunch outside? It's still going to take more than half an hour to get back and then there will be so much work. Please?”

“Khushi, we'll be even more late in reaching work. And can't you eat while working?”

“WHAT? How can anyone eat while working? Don't you know that food is to be enjoyed? How do you enjoy food if you are working? How can one possibly....”

“Okay, okay, I get it! Fine, I'll stop as soon as a restaurant comes.”

Arnav sighed slightly since he still didn't want to be late for work, but it obviously went unnoticed by Khushi who was already dreaming about food.

He looked at her happy face and felt a soothing calm spread in his heart. His mind went back to this morning, how he had let down his ASR mask for her, and as he saw her face now, he felt that maybe it was worth it. He still didn't believe that anything good can ever happen in his life, but for some reason, he just wasn't able to keep up being ASR around her. He just wanted to be Arnav. He didn't know where exactly he was heading with this decision, but he just didn't want to do anything about it just yet. He can be ASR whenever he wants to be, but his heart was, for once, willing to let Arnav come in front. His lips curved to reveal a smile, though small, but still evident.

Khushi, in her excitement of food, had completely forgotten that there was someone else present in the car besides her. She looked at Arnav to find him looking straight, but instead of the same statue-straight face, she saw a slight hint of smile. He looked content, but for her, he looked like a cute child with his smile. Her eyes saddened a little as she once again recalled his words from last night. She just wasn't able to forget the pain, the anguish his words held. She knew he was lonely, hurt, and his life was simply empty of any joy. For reasons unknown to her, she wished to erase all sadness from his life and fill it with overflowing happiness. A happiness that would always remain with him, within him, delighting him for eternity.

Okay everyone, this is it for today.  I know it's shorter and also has less of Arhi scenes, but everything else was long overdue as well.  

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