HOW CAN I LET YOU GO?

CHAPTER 13

Khushi stepped into what was to be her new home and gasped in surprise! The cozy little house was modern and yet felt completely familiar. She wandered through the house , unmindful of Arnav's watchful eyes seeking her approval.

<I suck at describing houses...so why don't you just enjoy the pics ;)>

 

As she gleefully finished touring the last of the house, Khushi turned around to face her husband, a happy smile pasted on her face! Arnav's apprehensive face relaxed, as he too cracked a half smile at her enthusiasm. 

But Khushi's smile instantly turned into a frown as she recalled the circumstances that brought her where she was! It ineffect caused Arnav's attempt at a smile to fail too.

" Didn't you like the house Khushi?", he asked tentatively.

In response though Khushi turned around and walked out into the open patio. She stood with her back facing him, feeling the wind whip her frame . She felt Arnav behind her before he spoke.

"Khushi...?", he called out.

" Why did you marry me Arnavji?", she questioned ,still not facing him. When he did not reply she whipped around with blazing eyes, " Answer me!", she demanded, louder than she intended.

"Don't talk to me like that!", raged Arnav. But his rage was only a means to avoid answering her question.

"I will talk the way I deem fit! Who are you to stop me? "

"You know very well who I am..."

"Oh yes, yes! You are Arnav Singh Raizada....But I am also Khushi Kumari Gupta...."

"...Singh Raizada.", completed Arnav. At her silence he continued, " Don't ever  forget that! You are mine now...and I own you! You have no right to question me!"

Khushi's initial shock at the way he completed her name, wore off as she heard his last sentence. Fury bubbled in her again as she retorted," You are my husband and I am your wife...not a slave...so no Mr Raizada...you don't own me! We are equals. The sooner you get that into your thick skull, the better!", saying , she stormed away from him and into one of the bedrooms, slamming the door shut behind her!

Arnav cursed under his breath and fisted the wall. He had messed up again! And as punishment he had to spend his own wedding night outside his room, away from his wife! 

Sigh!

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This was just a filler for what comes next. I know its short but I will update a longer one soon. Don't worry this tension will get over soon. Its time for the man to woo his woman...properly. And seduction ofcourse is a part and parcel! ;)

HOW CAN I LET YOU GO?

First things first! Eid Mubarak to all my wonderful and patient readers! Have a splendid year. 
And secondly, I apologise yet again for the late update. But hope today, on Eid ,you will forgive me! :p

CHAPTER 12

Bewilderment filled the faces of those around, as they stared in pure wonder at the man who claimed not to have a heart! What else was this, if not a show of love? A declaration, nevertheless! 

Nani was old, but for a reason. She had garnered wisdom over her years of existence, that let her read through any situation, and allowed her to reciprocate in kind! As her gaze shifted between her grandchild and his betrothed, she noticed the pure awe and surprise with which she regarded him! She reached a set of conclusions of her own, and smiled inwardly at the prospect of seeing them through.

"Okay Arnav! If that is what you wish...then so be it! You may leave the house!", she thundered, earning shocked gasps from those around, as all eyes turned to her , some albeit accusing! 

"Nani...", started Khushi, only to be cut off by Arnav's vice like grip on her hands, as he all but dragged her out of his house. The house he grew up in. The house he helped rebuild. The house wherein his life, his di, resided!

"Arnavji....", Khushi retorted, struggling against his stronghold. " Please...listen to me!"

But it fell on deaf ears. He dumped her unceremoniously into the car before driving off , unmindful of the fact that his rash driving was tethering Khushi on the edge! She was close to having a full blown panic attack! 

"Arnavji...pleaseee...ssll...sllooow....do...down", she managed to whisper. 

But what Arnav failed to hear from her mouth, his heart seemed to capture, cause he glanced at Khushi, and saw her visibly pale countenance, as she gasped for breath. He braked the car immediately and unbuckled himself, before leaning over and capturing her face between his large palms.

"Khushi...", he called out, barely a whisper. When she didn't respond, he rubbed his thumb across her cheeks, wiping away her tears in the process, before calling out louder.

Khushi stirred and opened her tightly shut eyes, to the sensation of his calloused fingers  against her skin. It feels so right, she mused! She remained like that, in her semi conscious state, her eyes and lips partly open, leaning into his touch! 

Arnav felt tears prick the back of his eyes, seeing her like that, so trusting, so vulnerable! What have I done? Why did I do this to her? Why am I always the cause for all her pain? 

He recollected how she had stopped her mother from slapping him. How she stood up for him! Just like any dutiful wife. His wife! The thought soothed him. She was his! His alone! And he would be damned to let her go! If given a chance he would do it again , he realised. To make her his, he would do anything! But did she want him? Was all this just duty to her....or did she love him? 

Arnav turned back to her and realised that his thumb hadn't stopped moving across her skin. His abrupt stop, caused Khushi to peek at him through half opened eyes. On seeing Arnav though, her stupor vanished. Her eyes opened completely and then widened some more, before darting between his hands and his face! She gulped visibly, but didn't pull away. Arnav noticed this, and smiled inwardly.

"Khushi....", he husked, leaning towards her.

Khushi felt her heart go on its marathon again. But it was so loud this time, she feared it would burst! She clutched her heart with her hand, attempting to still its frantic rhythm. 

Hai Devi Maiyya!

Arnav leaned in some more, his breath fanning across her lips. 

"Khushi I......I lo....."

But his sentence was left hanging as they were interrupted by the honking of a vehicle behind them! Arnav came out of his daze and realised what he was about to confess! He cursed under his breath, which was audible enough for Khushi to catch though, before moving back to his seat and driving again. Khushi looked at him speculatively as his words from before ran on repeat in her head, over and over..... What was he about to say? I lo...what? I lost something? Did he lose something? No Arnav Singh Raizada can't lose anything...can he? Then? I long for something? What does he long for? He has everything he wants! No....ummm? I love something? Love? He and love? But he does love his sister.... He has told me before....so then.....could it be that... He loves.......me? Oh shut up Khushi! What are you even thinking? Arnav Singh Raizada ...loves you? A mere chit of a girl as he says? Its not possible.....right?

But try as she may, Khushi couldn't get the notion out of her head!

Arnav and Khushi played peek-a-boo the rest of the way, neither choosing to speak a word. Each scrutinising the other   for some sort of reaction, to what transpired earlier, and finding nothing, other than a locked jaw and fidgeting fingers! It was like this that they reached their new house. The house they would be calling their home.....soon! 

HOW CAN I LET YOU GO?

CHAPTER 11

SLAP!!!!!

The sound echoed several times before Khushi's ears stopped ringing! She stared wide eyed at her amma. Her mother's hands rose again to slap Arnav, her husband of five hours! Five gruesome , tortuous and humiliating hours ...for the both of them. Enough is enough!

"Amma stop!", cried Khushi, holding her mother's hand, stopping her from slapping Arnav for the second time. All the Raizada's let a collective sigh escape from their mouths. They had witnessed the first slap, and had waited for Arnav's reaction with bated breath. But when they saw that he remained unresponsive , even when Garima raised her hand a second time, they feared Arnav would cross all boundaries.Khushi's timely interruption was a welcome relief. 

But Arnav stayed mum...almost calm and submissive! 

"Khushi?", Garima hissed at her daughter. " Why are you stopping me? What this man...."

"This man Amma....is my husband! However much this marriage was against my will...he is  my husband now. And nothing can change that!", retorted Khushi, leaving her mother and several others speechless. Mostly so...Arnav!

"Khushi...", trailed her mother.

" Amma....trust me...please let me speak to you all in private. Please?", begged khushi.

"Om Prakash! Inhe guest room dikha deejiye! (show them the guest room)", said Anjali, earning a grateful look from Khushi.

*********************************************************************************

{NOTE THAT THE DIALOGUES TAKING PLACE IN EACH ROOM WILL BE MIXED, SO THE ONLY INDICATION OF SEPARATE ROOMS SHALL BE THE LINE THAT WILL DEMARCATE THE CONVERSATIONS.}

" Amma....look at me.... please..."

"No Khushi, I do not know why you are trying to save him . I...."

"Garima, titliya ki baath tho sun liyo (listen to her)"

" Yes Amma...listen to me!"

******************************************************************************

"Chote...ye sabh kya hai?(what is all this?)"

" Haan chote! Answer your nani!"

"Di ...please..."

" No chote! Today you are not going to be let free without answering!"

*****************************************************************************

"Amma... I do not know why he did this. What was the reason behind his hasty decision......", Khushi trailed off....thinking about the conversation they had before the marriage fiasco.

"Then what is it Khushi?"

"Amma...As far as I know him, I know that he wouldn't do anything without a reason.  Zaroor iske peeche bhi koi vajah hogi! (There will be a reason behind this)"

"Kaise vajah Khushi? (What reason)"

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"You have to tell us the reason chote! Tell me...your di...please!!"

" Di...I...."

"Hello Hi Bye Bye! Kahin tum us phati sari se pyaar vyaar toh nahi karath ho? (Do you love her)"

"..."

"Chote? Jawab deejiye (Answer)"

***************************************************************************

" Amma I am sure there is a valid reason. He is not telling us now... but when the time is right he will come clean with the reason."

"Time is right? What is the right time Khushi?? Isn't this the right time? He marries you forcefully and...."

"Kkkhhhuuu.....Khu...ssii"

"Babuji????? Amma.....Babuji called me....he took my name amma....Hai Devi Maiyya.....Babuji?"

The four ladies rushed towards shashi who was struggling to ove his arms.

"Babuji? .."

"Ar....naab....", shashi nodded his head and placed his hands with difficulty over Khushi's head, blessing her!

Khushi's eyes filled with tears at her father's silent approval. She raised her head to look at Garima questioningly.

*****************************************************************************

"Agar pyaar nahi karthe toh shaadi kyun ki chote? Itna nafrath karthe ho usse ki uski zindagi barbaad karne ki soch li? (If you don't love her why did you get married to her? Or do you hate her so much that you decided to destroy her life?)"

"Di!!!!!!!!!!!"

"Aur nahi to kya chote? Usse iss tarah shaadi kar lene se uski zindagi barbaad nahi hui toh aur kya hui....?( If , by getting married to her , you haven't destroyed her life ...then what have you done?)"

"Haan shaadi ki usse maine....aapke liye....apne liye... bus...isse zyada aur kuch nahi boloonga main!( Yes I got married to her...for you...for me....Enough..I will not say anything more)"

***************************************************************************

"Amma!" 

Khushi hugged her mother tightly, and Garima reciprocated her hug with equal fervour.

"I just hope he takes good care of you Khushi! If not...he will have me to answer to!"

Khushi hugged her mother harder, choosing to remain silent. Madhumati and Payal wiped their tears as a genuine smile lit their faces after hours!

***************************************************************************

"What do you mean chote? For me? Why?....What..."

"Di please....", Arnav grabbed his sister's hands in his and pleaded with his eyes," Just trust me...trust your chote! Please..... "

"I will not allow this Arnav! ", said nani with authority. But Arnav continued pleading with his sister. The Raizada's did not notice the Gupta's ,who had come out after their discussion and had heard nani's last sentence.

"Nani...", started Anjali, only to notice the dejected, detached and horrified expressions on the Guptas' faces!

Following her line of sight all the Raizada's turned to look at the Gupta's .

" Lets go Khushi, I see you are not accepted here.", said Garima...breaking the tension.

" No....!!!", yelled Arnav.

" Khushi won't go anywhere. She is MY wife and she will stay with me! And if nani has a problem accepting her into this house then I will oblige and leave this house with Khushi...this instant!"

Raizada's and Gupta's stared at Arnav with their mouths hanging open. Nani was the first to recover as she said, " You wouldn't dare!"

" Watch me nani! ", challenged Arnav.

" Jahan Khushi nahi....wahaan Arnav nahi.....(where there is no Khushi...there will be no Arnav)"

HOW CAN I LET YOU GO?

CHAPTER 10

Arnav had admitted to himself long back, that he loved her. But today standing in front of her accusing stance, he couldn't bring himself to voice out what he felt. He wouldn't admit it but a part of it had also to do with his ever present ego. She loved someone else didn't she? So wouldn't admitting his love be like...... grovelling?  And Arnav Singh Raizada never grovelled. She would come to him off her own accord. But till she did, she would be tied to him! And if marriage was the way, so be it!

Khushi looked down fingering her garland, the events of the day weighing down upon her. What had he done? What had she done? They had gotten married!!! How ? Why? How would she face her parents? His parents? What was he thinking? Her fury rose and she raised her accusing eyes at him. She stepped forward and pushed him with all her might! 

"How dare you?"

Push.

"What do you think of yourself? How dare you?"

Push.

" Do you even know what you have done?"

Push.

"How will I face people now? Your family, my family...jiji....!!"

She paused trying to reign in her emotions, before turning her fury back at him and pushing him again. She had him backed against a tree. 

The last push, pushed Arnav over the edge. He grabbed her hands and spinning her around pinned her to the tree. Glaring down at her , he noticed the equally defiant, and enraged look she gave him.

" Let go of me!!!!", she screamed.

" Never!!", he screamed back, effectively shutting her up!

Khushi looked at him bewildered. Panting heavily, she spluttered, " What?"

But Arnav was too lost. Her hot heavy breath fanning his chin. Her hair, loose from the braid, tickling his stubble. Her eyes, wide, hazel, reflecting the light! Involuntarily he leaned in, closer. He noticed her parted lips quiver, and he smirked. Not affected, are we? He envisioned his lips on hers, the vision pulling him closer. Just a little more and its mine! No sooner had he thought the thought , Khushi turned her head away!

However affected she may be by his presence, she was mad at him....too mad to let him try anything at all! So she turned away. 

Arnav stopped as the sight of her lips vanished , replaced by her milky white  skin. Playing hard are we? He trailed his lips down the column of her neck sucking her skin, teasing with his tongue. He felt her stiffen, and  her breathing grow heavier! He smirked some more. He nipped at her skin near her collar bone, eliciting a gasp from her. Then soothed it with his tongue and felt her shudder. He moved away a little and noticed the subtle pout on her lips, at the loss of contact. He pressed his lips on her reddened cheeks, lingering for a while before pulling away. He saw her open eyed, open mouthed expression , bearing which she turned to him. 

Khushi was shocked! He kissed her....again? She turned to him, to see his triumphant expression. What was he so satisfied about? Why did he keep doing ...all that? was he merely attracted to her? Or...did he have feelings for her? He married her for crying out loud! But he didn't believe in marriage! So was all this just a facade? What did he hope to gain by all this? Why was he doing this? 

Tears threatened to spill down her cheeks as she regarded him with her turmoil filled eyes.

" Why are you doing this?", she whispered, only for him to hear.

The question. He could answer her now! It would be make or break. But he didn't wanna break! He didn't wanna lose her! She was his dammit!!

"Because I can! You are my wife!"

HOW CAN I LET YOU GO?

Hello to all my readers! Oh and what a welcome! :/ But I shouldn't be one to complain. I have taken long enough to give you an update. And this time around I will Just suck up my sorry! And yes I will be able to update only once a week. And those of you who wanna read may visit my blog. I am no longer gonna post the update notification on myed. Emails I will send to those who ask for it. I won't keep you waiting any longer so here goes....

CHAPTER 9

Arnav snapped his head around to look at her. What was she asking? How did it matter to him? Couldn't she see? That he was..... What was he? Heck he himself didn't know the extent of his feelings for her! Feelings?? Hah! Arnav Singh Raizada And feelings? What has she done to me?

But Arnav wasn't ready to answer his own question...not now...when things were so uncertain. He needed to know what Khushi meant on the terrace that day. Instead of answering her, he put forth a question of his own!

"So, you don't love NK?"

Khushi bit back a groan, before attacking again," That's not the answer to my question!"

"So who is it that you love then?"

Khushi's eyes widened in surprise. What does he mean? Why is he asking this? 

She just regarded him with the same shocked expression, willing him to elaborate.

But Arnav turned away and got out of the car. Khushi followed in suite and came to stand behind his brooding form. She remained silent willing him to speak. 

He tensed as he felt her approach him but didn't turn. Neither did he answer her silent question...or plea rather.

Finally tired of the silence, Khushi turned away and walked towards the car. Just as she reached the passenger side , she turned back to him, " Arnavji..... "

He turned slowly to regard her.

" Will you please drop me to the mall? Nanheji must be waiting. He will be worried!"

And just like that, all the anger came flooding back! Arnav strode towards her, grabbing her by her shoulders, and shaking her with every word.

" You are bothered about him! You are worried about his tension. What he will think ....And me? What about me? Answer me dammit? What about me ...us?"

"What about us?", asked Khushi calmly.

Arnav's hands dropped to his sides, shock and something else shone in his eyes. He took a step away from her.

" What about us Arnavji?", she prompted. Khushi took a step forward as she continued," As far as I know Arnavji, you are my jeeji's jetji. My jiji is married to your brother, which in effect makes me... HIS sister-in -law! So,....... what about US Arnavji?", she questioned, this time using his tone for the last question? 

Arnav looked up at her with disbelief. Is that all their relation was about? Is that what she thought? Didn't anything that they shared, mean nothing to her? How could she act so aloof? So...so ...detached?

Arnav shuddered at the feeling , the feeling of losing her! 

NO!! Arnav Singh Raizada never loses! Never! 

He stepped forward and grabbed her hands dragging her along with him along the rocky path to his left. Khushi tried protesting and struggling, but he didn't relent. She was his...and he would prove it to her! 

After walking, rather dragging Khushi along, Arnav reached his destination. It was a small temple situated deep in the jungle through which they had come. A single idol sat on a stone , surrounded by diyas that lit the eerie jungle casting a glow over the area. A pundit stood at the far end of the clearing, where the mandir was situated. He came forward as Arnav approached, dragging Khushi along. 

Arnav left Khushi's hand as he moved towards the pundit. Khushi saw a bundle of notes fall into the aged man's hands. She also saw him shake his head in dismay. But he kept the money anyway. 

What was Arnavji doing? Why was he paying the pundit?

As if in answer to her silent question, Arnav turned around and walked towards her, just as the pundit disappeared into the jungle. Arnav dragged her towards the idol and dropped her hands. 

"You believe in this idol, don't you?", he asked.

Khushi regarded him warily.

"Anything sacred that happens here....you will believe in it....right? Tum nibhaogi use?"

Khushi was getting nervous. What did he mean? Why was he asking all this? 

"Arnavji....", she tried, only to be cut off by the entry of the pundit. He was carrying firewood and ghee....and two garlands.

Khushi started , trying to make sense of what was happening. She watched as the pundit set up a holy pyre and began chanting something. He looked up at her, pity on his face before turning towards Arnav and gesturing. In response Arnav grabbed Khushi's hands as he led her towards the pyre and made her sit down.

Noo!!! This was not happening! What is all this about? Why am I sitting here?

She tried to get up, but Arnav's grip on her kept her in place. Still she struggled asking him repeatedly to explain what was happening. It was only when the pundit gestured again and Arnav made both of them stand and reached for the garland ,that it all finally fell into place for her!

He was marrying her?? What the hell? How could he? What is he thinking? He...

But she couldn't complete the thought as just then she felt the garland go around her neck. Khushi stared up at him in surprise. Tears streaked down her face, making Arnav clench his fists and teeth, to stop the pain, clenching his heart.

"Put it around my neck!", he bit out. But she stood mute. Not moving a muscle. Arnav grabbed her hands holding the garland, and made her put it on him. Her hands remained on the garland, as she stared unseeingly at him, too shocked to process anything. Arnav stared back, just as intensely as he filled her parting with the sacred vermillion. 

The pundit instructed them to take the seven vows . And Arnav dragged a shock still Khushi around the fire. 

"Vivaah sumpun hua! ( The marriage was successful)", said the pundit, breaking Khushi's trance. She reached tentatively to touch her partition, and looked at her blood red fingers. The tears fell stronger, as the weight of the events that transpired, came crashing down on her! 

She looked up at Arnav accusingly, only to see his triumphant look as he said," I hope that answers your question!"

HOW CAN I LET YOU GO?

CHAPTER 8

Arnav honked over again, only in time to see a nervous and flustered Khushi making her way towards him. She was twiddling with the ends of her dupatta in an attempt to calm her nerves.

Hai Devi Maiyya! Car ride with the Raakshas?Especially after what just happened? 

No ,no calm down Khushi....Its just a ride. Sit faar away from him... Nothing can go wrong. Right?

But she couldn't contemplate anymore since she was standing right in front of her nemesis by then!

Arnav gracefully opened the passenger door for her, and smirked.

Hai Devi Maiyya!

Khushi entered nervously, trying to maintain maximum distance between herself and him.

Arnav shut her door and took his place in the driver's seat.

"Seatbelt.", he ordered.

"K..Kya?(What)", she implored.

Arnav turned to face her before repeating, " Seatbelt!"

Khushi stiffened and turned to do her bidding. But unfortunately her belt was stuck and wouldn't budge. She tugged and pulled to no avail.

An impatient Arnav leaned over her as he pulled her belt free, ineffect causing Khushi to stiffen even more! 

It was as he pulled the belt across her, that he realised the extent of their proximity! Her ragged breath fanned over his cheek as he moved towards his seat. 

Arnav hid a smile at his obvious effect on her and pulled the belt at an even more leisurely pace.

He made sure to brush his fingers along her collar bone , the valley between her breasts , her midriff as he pulled the belt down, earning a sharp gasp from her each time! 

Hai Devi Maiyya! She called out for the umpteenth time! This man and his besharmi! 

But inspite of his blatant moves , Khushi found herself liking...no loving his touch....and truth be told..., craving more!! 

Please forgive me god! This is sooo wrong...and yet it feels so right!

Arnav, after completing his , arousing act, sat back ...trying to calm his own nerves before starting the ignition. They rode in silence for a while.

A while,.... that is about fifteen minutes later Khushi who had began noticing her surroundings shrieked," Arnavji! Aap galat ja rahe hai! ( You are going the wrong way) Rasta waha hai!(Its that way)"

To which Arnav replied by a Shut up Khushi.

"Haaww!! Hum kyun shut up? Aap Shut up! Rasta udhar hai!! ( Why should I shut up? You shut up! Its that way!!)"

" Khushi...!", Arnav gritted his teeth in frustration....or rather trying to intimidate her!

But Khushi was not one to backdown! 

"Mall ka rasta udhar hai Arnavji... Iss taraf nahi hai!( The way to the mall is over there. Not here)"

" We are not going to the mall!", Arnav bit out.

"Kyaaaa??? (What?) Kyun??? (Why?)"

When Arnav chose to remain silent Khushi went on," Where are we going then? Tell me ? Where are you taking me? Batayien hamein (tell me)!!"

Arnav just kept mum.

" Look if you don't tell me then....then..."

"Then what?", asked Arnav, amused.

"Dekhiye...hum khud jayenge! (look...I will jump out)"

Arnav turned to her and quirked an eyebrow. At Khushi's no nonsense look Arnav smirked and turned away and said," Toh khud jaao (Then jump)"

Khushi's eyes widened to the size of soccer balls as she stuttered an inaudible What?

Arnav looked at her and shrugged matter -of-factly. 

Enraged, and losing her capability to think beyond her anger, at the audacity of the man, she turned to open the door....only to find that she couldn't unlock it (courtesy child lock!).

"Open this door!!", she yelled.

When Arav chose to ignore her statement, she leaned over him to try and unlock the door from his side, ineffect making Arnav lose his control over the wheel and swivel dangerously!

"WHAT THE......!!!", he stormed as he pulled over with a jerk.

Khushi immediately sat back in her seat, ramrod straight!

Arnav turned to her, fury burning in his eyes," What's wrong with you? Paagal ho kya? Dimaag kharab hai tumhara?( Are you mad?) Kuch ho jaatha toh? (If something happened?)"

Khushi bit her lip guiltily , and nervously twiddled her thumbs. 

"ANSWER ME DAMMIT!!!", he yelled, making her jump.

"I...I wanna get out! "

Arnav's eyes turned red with uncontrolled fury. He leaned over her and removed her seatbelt. But the next instant caught hold of her shoulders as he pulled her to himself and shook her.

"Why?...Why the heck do you want to leave? So that you can go meet your boyfriend at the mall? So that you can spend time with him? Huh? Answer me! Answer me dammit!", yelled Arnav, fury clouding all his senses.

Khushi looked at him shocked, unable to process what he was saying?

"Arnavji...yeh aap kya...? (what are you....)"

"Oh! don't lie to me Khushi! I know everything! I heard you and ......", he stopped short not wanting to say anything more.

"Heard what?", probed Khushi...confused.

Arnav turned away and ran his fingers through his hair in frustration.

" Heard what Arnavji?", she prompted.

Arnav turned to look at her , but didn't answer. His look was pained as he regarded her, though his face as usual was a mask. He silently unlocked the car and said," Go...Go wherever you want to...with whomever you want to. Your boyfriend will be waiting for you!", he added sarcastically.

Khushi looked even more perplexed. " Boy...boyfriend?"

" Oh! Stop the drama Khushi Kumari Gupta! If you love NK why don't you just admit it?"

"WHAAAT????", shouted a shocked Khushi, shocking Arnav as well in the process!

And then she burst out laughing. She laughed so hard that tears pooled at the corners of her eyes , and her belly hurt! 

Watching her laugh calmed Arnav's senses to some extent. But it also irritated him to see her laughing and not giving an explanation! 

When finally she controlled her laughter, she saw Arnav regarding her with a partially amused and partially skeptical look.

Khushi chuckled again," Arnavji... you have a very wild imagination !", she said, shocking Arnav even more! 

Oh you don't know the least of it Khushi Kumari Gupta!

But Arnav shook him out of that thought , and quirked an eyebrow at her.

" Where did you get such an idea?"

When Arnav didn't reply again Khushi looked down and twiddled with her thumbs again.

"Aur waise bhi....isse apko kya faraq padtha hai? (How does it matter to you?)"

OUR HEARTBEATS BECOME ONE !

CHAPTER 10

"No more games! You have kept me waiting for sooooo long........JAAN!" He crooned.

The nickname was back. Khushi flinched at the use. She tried moving away again, but his grip was strong! She turned her head sideways, avoiding his gaze! He scowled!

"I know your angry jaan..... But you went away without telling me! It took me some time to find you......"

She dint respond.

"Please Khushi.....jaan, don't do this to me! Talk to me jaan.......I want to hear your voice....it's been soooo long!" He pleaded.

She dint budge.

His anger rose, he swallowed it .......the cunning streak was out.

"You know I have my ways to make you speak jaan........" He tried.

She turned deaf ears to him. He smirked at the opportunity. He traced a finger down her cheek gently.....moving down to her neck ......and then her collarbone.

"Stop!!!" Cried Khushi, petrified!

A small , cunning smile adorned his lips. He tilted his head as he enjoyed the ring of her voice.

"Ah! How I missed that! Your voice." He looked back at her. She turned to face him.

"I want that with me....forever! "

She gulped.

"I have a surprise for you jaan....." He drooled. He got up and turned around , moving towards the dark corner.

She immediately tried to free herself.....in vain!

He came back, his hands behind his back. His lips spread in a smile, which disappeared as soon as he saw her moving about!

She stopped, not wanting to enrage him further. His smile came back!

"Look what I have for you jaan...." He chirped. He brought his hands out from behind his back, to reveal a box of sindoor and a mangalsutra!

Her eyes grew wide in horror as she imagined what would happen next. Her breath hitched. Tears streamed down her face relentlessly. She panicked as he came closer.

"No! Shekar please......"

He stopped hearing his name from her mouth, and immediately crouched down before her, grabbing her arm in his excitement ! She winced.

"Say it again! My name! It sounds sooo good from your mouth!" He looked at her expectantly.

She understood the need to do as he asked."Shekar ....."

He closed his eyes, enliving the moment. He let out a deep sigh. His eyes opened to show her a new gleam in them. He raised the mangalsutra again, only to be stopped by her again!

"No! Shekar....this is not right..."she began, wary of the rising anger in his eyes.

"I mean...we need a pundit....a pyre...a holy pyre...all the mantras....we need permission.....from....from my bua!"

"Your people were always against us jaan....they never want to see us united!" He wined....in urgency.

She stammered in her own urgency to convince him, "No.... No . Buaji ....she is not like that! I mean...she will never say no to this....... But you have to meet her...and ask her...nicely!" She said, and added as an afterthought,"please......for me?"

He seemed to consider and then replied softly," Anything for you jaan!"

He quickly untied her, and pulled her along with him.

"Wait! " she said. He raised his brow, turning back at her.

"My phone,.... I mean...I need to ca....call buaji! To tell her you are coming to meet her!"

"Why jaan? We will surprise her!" He said cheerfully.

"No! " she retorted again......infuriating him again!

"I mean....she is old Shekar... If we just pop in like that..she might be shocked!"

He laughed a high menacing laugh, and then looked at her keenly, "Now then.....we wouldn't want her to die....and delay our union.......would we?" He purred.

She gulped...but managed to smile at his humourless joke .

He handed over his phone, "Use mine!"

"But....but. ..... I don't know buaji's number! It's in my phone!" She hoped to put him out of doubt.

Nevertheless he looked at her , scrutinising her.

He handed her her sling bag. She frantically searched for the phone, and with trembling fingers dialled the number. She placed the phone by her ear when she heard him say," I trust you jaan....."

She smiled weakly.....and concentrated on the dial tone.

Payal's phone rang. She looked at the screen and was surprised.

"It's Khushi!" She exclaimed. Arnav moved closer as she picked the phone, trying to catch the conversation.

"Khushi!" Payal exclaimed...but was cut off by Khushi's urgent...and false happy voice!

******************************

"Buaji!" She exclaimed

******************************

"Buaji?" Enquired Payal , confused.

******************************

"I am okay! I am here with...Shekar..... We are coming home! "

*****************************

"What??" Screamed Payal.....scared as her own suspicions came true!

****************************

"Yes.... The same Shekar! He is coming home with me to meet you. Please do proper arrangements....after all he is coming home for the first time!"saying she flashed Shekar a smile, who reciprocated with fervour .

***************************

"Yes yes! I will..... See you at home! And Khushi..... Take care!" She cut the phone and looked down at the screen, disbelief and fear surging through her.

"What happened?" Enquired Arnav frantically. He hadn't managed to hear much!

"They are coming home! " She looked up. "She is coming home....with him!"

Arnav looked at her trying to comprehend. He again misunderstood Payal's reference. But it was enough to make his blood boil! Again.......

Meanwhile, Payal made the call.

"Namaste! Hum Payal Gupta. Woh.... Lucknow mein..... Ji.....Ji......he is here.....Delhi...." Payal recited the address and then urged the receivers end to be there immediately!

She then turned and walked towards the house, with Arnav following behind, shooting questions at her....that she ignored.....or rather tried to.

Arnav was confused. And Payal's silence was infuriating him to the core! Nobody in his entire life had dared to ignore him or his questions till date....i.e. till he met the Gupta sisters!

His patience was fast eroding! Had it not been for the fact that he respected Payal, he would have snapped at her and got it out of her. But his decency didn't allow him to misbehave......with Payal ofcourse. With Khushi....it was a completely different matter!

As soon as they reached home, Payal broke the news to buaji, disclosing everything except the name.

"Hai re nandkishore! " buaji exclaimed.

"Please buaji! You have to be strong. There will be an end to this today! " said Payal vehemently.

She turned to Arnav and said, "You should leave.....it won't be nice if he sees you here.... He is....he is unpredictable!"

"I won't go anywhere! I will stay here and I'll kill that b******! "

"No Arnavji! Please understand..." Began Payal, but was cut off as she saw the two of them entering . Her eyes widened in shock! He was really here! He had really found them!

Arnav who had his back to the door, turned around on seeing Payal's dumbstruck expression.......... And immediately, bought the expression off her! To say, he was shocked was an understatement! He was overjoyed to see Khushi! But ....who was this guy with her? This was not Shyam! And why......why the HECK WAS HE HOLDING KHUSHI'S ARM!!!!!!!!!!!!................

*******************************

Khushi's eyes move from buaji to Payal to Arnav, where it rests.She remains rooted to the spot to find him there. What was he doing here?

Shekar on the other hand had eyes only for Payal. Hatred emancated from them, as he vividly remembered the slap...her slap!

FLASHBACK

'How dare you? How dare you touch my sister you scoundrel!"

*Slap*

"You will rot.....rot in hell Mr Tandon......I swear!"

*************************

The ambulance had taken him away that day....but not far.

Payal meanwhile had multiple emotions! she felt relief, and fear, and hatred! Relief to see Khushi safe. Fear as she took in Shekar's expression. Hatred at him for landing her sister in this mess. For touching her! And hatred at herself for letting it happen!

To break the awkward silnce, Khushi spoke up," Buaji! This is Shekar! Shekar....my bua"

Shekar tore his eyes of Payal, and looked at buaji. His eyes softened and he moved towards a petrified buaji , dragging Khushi along with him. Buaji took a step back, despite herself, and slumped onto the sofa!

He immediately knelt down beside her pulling Khushi as well into sitting position...still not leaving her hand.....and infuriating Arnav all the more!

" I am marrying Khushi..", he stated with glee, and then his tone changed as he regarded Payal from the corner of his eyes, " No matter, who opposes. I dont care if anyone has any problem!"

Saying, he stood up, pulling up Khushi as well, and turned to leave. Khushi was shocked, that was faster than she expected! She couldn't think of any way to stall him further! She looked at her sister, confused and pleading.

Payal was in a state , no better! She gulped as she frantically thought of ways to handle the situation!

But Arnav surpassed them all!

" You can't take her away...." , he hissed.... making Shekar stop in his tracks.

He turned around to look at Arnav, whom he noticed for the first time after entering, and whom he took an instinctive dislike to!

Shekar raised his brow, amused as he shot," And who is to stop me?"

Arnav walked over , and stood in front of him , with a breaths gap between their faces. His eyes bore into his counterparts, as he spoke," Let go of her hand!"

Shekar tightened his grip, making Khushi wince, which did not go unnoticed by Arnav.

He looked defiantly at Arnav, his brow raised.

Arnav gritted his teeth and clenched and unclenched his fists, to control his ever rising temper!

Shekar noticed it and smirked! He pulled Khushi closer and turned to leave. But he didn't take a step more as he felt a stone hard wrist clasp around his , tightening with each passing second. He turned around furiously, to find Arnav's eyes on Khushi! His anger mounted as he saw Khushi returning the look!

He gripped Arnav's hand and tried yanking it off! But the latter was too strong!

Arnav deftly evaded Shekar's hold, as he increased the pressure on Shekar's wrist...all the while looking deep into Khushi's eyes, which refused to move from his. Exactly as he wanted it!

When the pain became unbearable, Shekar unclenched his wrist, letting go of Khushi's hand. Arnav caught hold of hers instead and yanked her behind him, away from the monster.

Infuriated, Shekar moved forward to punch Arnav, which the latter evaded yet agan, and instead landed a couple of blows on on himself!

They fought each other for a while, both matching each other, in strength and skill!

Payal and Buaji shouted and screamed as they tried to prevent the two from hurting each other. The commotion had brought many interested eyes to their doorstep...and soon a huge crowd surrounded the Gupta house.

Khushi meanwhile silently watched the two as thoughts rolled across her head. thoughts about their differences, about how their wounds affected her, about how their blows aimed at each other affected her, why it did the way it did! And finally about why she should differentiate between the two...when , come to think of it, both where similar! Both had hurt her! What was the difference between the two?

As she thought this, and looked up she saw Shekar hurling a brass vase at Arnav aiming for his head!

Arnav , who was disorganised from the previous blow did not see it coming, and hence was weak at his defence.

As soon as the vase made contact with Arnav's skull, Khushi got all her answers! She rushed forward to protect him, as he clutched his head in pain.

Shekar, blinded by his anger and power, didn't notice Khushi come in between. He stuck again, this time on Khushi's head, making her scream in pain, before she passed out in Arnav's anxious arms...........again!

The monstority forgotten, Shekar moved forward along with Payal and buaji to help Khushi. But just at that time he heard the most hateful sound! The sound that brought back memories of tortured days and lonely nights...

The sirens sounded louder and closer, but the three of them , hunched over Khushi's limp body, where too busy to notice! Shekar took the opportunity and slipped away from there, before they could come in search of him! By the time they entered the house he was gone!

Arnav returned back to his senses, as he heard the sirens. She needs a doctor, his brain processed,.....Fast!!

He cradled her in his arms as he carried her to the ambulance and directed them! His own wound forgotten, he bickered with the driver, who insisted that he was there to pick up a mentally unstable person...and not a wounded one! He yelled, shouted, and paid a hefty amount to get her to the hospital in time.

She was taken in to the OT, her stretcher followed by a wailing buaji , weeping Payal and a distraught Arnav. The doors closed, leaving the behind...as she entered ,to fight her battle..............

An hour and thirty five minutes later the OT light went off, indicating the ceasing of the operation.

Dr Mahapatra came out, tugging at the strings of his gown. Arnav, Payal and buaji rushed to him, the eager look on their faces, speaking a thousand words.

"She is fine... it was just superficial bleeding, thankfully! We have sutured the area, and checked for possible deep injuries. Mr Raizada, I see you have let the staff bandage you as well? Good. One can never be too sure, when it comes to this area. " said the doctor. Then looking at their pensive faces, he assured them some more, " She is fine. She will be shifted to a room temporarily just so that we can check her stats. A bit of grogginess is expected. She might feel weak as well. But otherwise, she is bound to have no problems."

The trio sighed.

"Thank you doctor! Thank you very much!" said Arnav.

"Can we see her?" asked Payal

"Sure, in a while...she will be shifted to her room, and then."

Dr Mahapatra strode forward ,patting Arnav on his shoulder on his way.

About 15 minutes later buaji and Payal sat on either side of Khushi's bed waiting for her to wake up, while Arnav stood at a distance, near the door...deep in thought.

Khushi stirred slightly at first, but pretty soon her eyelids fluttered open and swivelled around taking in her surroundings.Buaji and Payal were on their feet immediately, bending over her anxiously, while Arnav moved out to call the doctor.

The doctor was in soon enough. He checked her stats and confirmed that she was alright...just exhausted.

The trio sighed in relief...inaudibly .

"She can go home in a day. I shall prescribe some painkillers. Apart from that I dont think I need to keep her here any longer", said the doctor.

"Thank you doctor ." uttered Khushi, who was wide awake now.

The doctor excused himself and buaji and Payal began fussing over Khushi.

"I am fine jiji! your titliya is hale and hearty! ", assured Khushi to the tearing duo.

Arnav stepped forward, grabbing the women's attention finally.

Khushi noticed the bandage on his forehead and immediately her heart fluttered. But she curbed her emotion...and forced a false formal voice as she addressed Arnav.

"Thank you Mr Raizada! Thank you for your help...."

But she was cut short as Arnav spoke, ignoring her tone, and her words.

"Payal, buaji.... all three of you are coming with me to Raizada mansion, once Khushi is discharged. You shall stay there with us."

He uttered the words and ....finally.....gazed at Khushi.....awaiting her reaction....which he could almost predict.......

"What? No way!!", screamed Khushi, just as Arnav had expected. He smirked, infuriating her. Payal and buaji"s heads snapped in her direction.

"I mean, I will ...rather we will go to OUR house, once I am discharged Mr Raizada. "

Arnav ignored her again, and looked at Payal. "I understand, you catch my reason for saying so. He is very dangerous....and your home is just not safe anymore! But at my place you will be safe, plus di and nani will be there...."

Payal, opened her mouth to speak, but is cut off by Khushi's protest.

"Thank you Mr Raizada, but no thanks! We are very well, capable of taking care of ouselves...as we have done in past as well. This situation needn't concern you in anyway!"

Arnav clenched his fist at her indifference.He knew she was angry at him, at the office incident.But he didn't respond to her, and continued talking to the ladies infront of him.

"I have already arranged for your luggage to be shifted, and as of now, I have posted security outside the room, just in case he decides to attempt something, though I highly doubt it."

"But Arnavji...." started Payal, but is cut off by Khushi yet again!

"I said, WE DONT WANT YOUR HELP!!! Don't you understand? Is it that hard to process? Who are you to help us? What right do you think you have......Mr Raizada?" asked Khushi frustrated.

Arnav's temples throb. He manages to maintain calm with great difficulty. He chooses to ignore her again, which infuriates Khushi to the core!

"Why? Cat caught your tongue? Answer me......answer me this instant,....."

"Enough Khushi!" shouted an irritated Payal.

"Do you even know what you are doing? He has helped us so much! You are alive and away from that monster because of him, and instead of thanking him....you are questioning his right? What has gotten into you?..."

"Silence! Mam...what are you doing? Please stop shouting in front of the patient. Please...all of you leave the room, immediately.....let the patient rest...please!" chided the nurse, who came running in hearing the commotion. She shook her head disappointedly before injecting Khushi with a sedative, despite her protests.

The rest of them moved out.

"I am extremely sorry about Khushi's behaviour Arnavji! I don't know what has gotten into her." apologised Payal.

"No no Payal...its okay.."

"But I will have to decline your help. You have already done so much for us! We cannot take more help. And by staying at your place we cannot put your family in danger! He is a lunatic! He dosen't care about anybody, but himself. He will do anything to get what he wants. In such a case I cannot knowingly, put your family in danger.."

"Please Payal. You do understand that I would never do anything that would harm my family in anyway. If i have decided to take you three home, then I have a solid reason. And I know ...it is a better way to keep an eye on him as well. I have arranged my men to find him....He won't rest for long...that I am sure. But he won't attack soon too. His stagnancy will give us time to prepare for his attack. "

"But..."

"No Payal! I will not take no as an answer. You have lied to me enough...don't you think?", asked Arnav, raising his eyebrow.

"Woh...." started Payal. BUt she stopped short, having no words to complete the sentence in her defence. She hung her head accepting defeat!

And so it was decided...the Guptas would shift their residence to the Raizada household.......for as long as it takes.......the phrase holding good for a lot of culminations!