PART 38

''Happy Birthday Akash!''Khushi squealed.

''Thanks Ms.Happy!''Akash smiled and immediately pulled khushi in a hug,catching Anjali's eyes.

ASR glowered at them and it was only so much he could do to not to force them apart physically.

''Hello khushi.''he said in a clipped voice.

Akash and khushi broke their hug and turned towards ASR.

''H..hello Sir.''Khushi stammered,confused on seeing a pulse jumping in ASR's vein.

As khushi stared at him,she was struck by his dapper looks.His well chiseled,broad chest was evident beneath the coat he wore,emphasising how muscular he was.His tight jawline and immaculately gelled hair made him look more handsome.His flashing,intelligent eyes were dark jade,yet they had a strange appeal in them.

Khushi found herself trying to decipher the emotion that smouldered just below the surface in his eyes when Payal's soft voice pulled her back to Earth.

''Happy Birthday Akash.''

''Thank you Payal!''Akash's face was a sight to behold with a grin that stretched from ear-to-ear.

Raizada clan saw the drama unfolding from a distance with a smile and the brightest ones were on Anjali and Armaan's face,the shenanigans behind the entire act.

''They look so perfect together!I can't wait to get them enter wed-lock!''She gasped with sheer adoration on her face.

''Don't worry Anji,that day will come soon and sooner so if we go by the adage 'Love is not blind but jealousy'.''Armaan said smugly.

''As in?''Anjali asked,confused by her husband's vague talks.

''Just wait and watch!''Armaan replied,his eyes shining with mischief.

He walked off and took up the mic.

''Ladies and Gentlemen,I thank you all whole-heartedly for being present here on the happy occasion of our Akash.I hope you guys are enjoying the party.So,here I welcome you all to dance floor!''Armaan announced amidst enthusiastic cheers.

Anjali,on understanding her husband'd intentions,signalled Nani and Mami and the trio reached where Akash,khushi,Payal and Arnav stood.

''Hello hi bye bye,Akash bhy are you standingj here like this?It ij your birthday party,you sould enjoy yourself!''Mamiji blabbered.

''Manorma is right Akash.You should be the first one on dance floor tonight.''Naniji quipped.

''Exactly,why don't you go and dance with khushiji?''Anjali suggested,pushing them towards the dance floor,turning a deaf ear to khushi's meek protests.

ASR was outraged and in utter disbelief.This can't be happening!His family members were trying to put Akash and Khushi together!

He saw Akash holding khushi's waist and a red haze obstructed his vision.They sawyed gently to a melliflous,romantic song and the crowd cheered.Gradualy the tempo increased and so did there pace.ASR could clearly see khushi enjoying herself and a vile,savage best roared in his head.

How dare she dance with Akash like that?

Khushi spotted ASR standing on the edge and it seemed he was having aneumarysm.His face was an angry puce and his jaw was clenched with a force that could have flattened even steel!

As she stared at him,the song reached its climax and everyone cheered,gathering around them.

Suddenly she felt a grip as tight as tourniquet on her wrist and before she knew,she was wrenched away from the dance floor  and away from the room where the party was going on.

Khushi found herself being dragged by ASR.

''Sir where are you taking me?''She queried bewildered.

But there was no reply and instead she was pulled in a room and out at the poolside.

Khushi stumbled a bit and looked around herself,awestruck at the place.It was simply beautiful.She wanted so much to explore for herself the beautiful pool side, but was stopped short by a curt, furious voice.

''What the hell were you doing khushi kumari gupta?''

PART 37

Invitations were sent and preparations were made and so was the plan to bring Arnav and Khushi closer.Days passed by swiftly and soon it was Akash's birthday.

Raizada Mansion was bustling with activities.Though dawn had just broken, replacing the cold blue of night in warm yellow,yet everyone was up and about. While Armaan was busy attending meetings and video conferences so that he was free for the evening,Mami after shedding fat tears and flooding Akash with kisses and gifts,was coaxing Anjali and even Nani to accompany her to beauty parlor. Akash and Arnav on getting the first chance to evade the ongoing bedlam,escaped to S.T.F. office at earliest possible opportunity.

The Sun set and stars came out winking merrily around a beautiful full moon. Raizada mansion was entirely bedecked in canopies of beautiful flowers and fairy lights.Streamers were wrapped artistically around the pillars and the entire place had a look of sheer regal and majesty.Moth-watering smell of delicacies mingled in air with sweet aroma of multi-hued flowers.

Guests started poring in by 8'o clock and ASR stared around insipidly,irritated as usual by excessive crowd.He saw several loud,boisterous Aunties pulling Akash's cheeks as if he were a small child,until they were red as tomato,and he felt a wave of pity.He greeted people who initiated conversation with him,but barely talking with anyone else as he waited impatiently.

But for whom?He didn't want to admit.As ASR looked around uninterested thoroughly uninterested,he spotted her and felt his breath knocked out of him.

Khushi stood at the entrance,clad in a beautiful yet elegantly white churidaar, which she had matched with a string of pearl ear rings.looking resplendent.The whites of her dress made her albino's skin look all cream and roses.The smooth satin and gossamer clinged to her body,accentuating her curves.There was no hint of make-up on her face except for eye-liner,that highlighted her volumnous,baby-like eyes that screamed for attention and strawberry lip gloss which made her supple lips look even more luscious and desirable.

Her hair was loose and her tresses gently touched her face.Khushi herself didn't have  even slightest of inkling how lovely she looked.

Payal too stood by her side looking equally ravishing in a navy blue churidaar, but ASR barely noticed her.In fact he felt as though there was literally no one in the entire place except for him and khushi like those generic,cliched Hindi movies.

His breathlesness and daze was shared by someone else too.Apparently Akash was equally smitten by Payal,looking at her unblinkingly.

Anjali saw her brothers ogling shamelessly at Khushi and Payal and she smirked. It seemed that the Raizadas will soon be running around making arrangements for two marriages.

Anjali made her way through the partying crowd and reached where khushi and Payal stood.

''Are Khushiji why are you standing here?Please come inside and this must be your elder sister Payal,isn't it?''She asked grinning.

''Yes Anjaliji,this is my elder sister Payal jiji and jiji,this is Anjaliji,Arnav Sir and Akash's sister.''Khushi introduced the duo.

Anjali immediately took them by their arms and led them to where other Raizadas were standing.

Khushi mingled with Raizadas freely and everyone developed a liking for ebullient little girl.Though,Payal was her usual introvert self,they liked her just like khushi.

ASR saw khushi mingling with his family,cracking jokes and making them laugh,he felt gratified.But after some time when she didn't even glance around once to see whether he was around or not,he felt irritated and slightly miffed.

Suddenly something struck him and he smirked.He went and stood beside Akash,staring at khushi smugly.

She'll have to come to him.

PART 36

Night wrapped the city in its giant,swarthy wings.A magic canopy of stars adorned the inky velvetness of the sky.

Khushi sat on the terrace of her house,curled up into0 a ball.Her chin rested on her knees as she stared into space,reminiscing the day that had a cornucopia of surprises,a smile touching her lips.

The morning encounter with Shyam had already faded in front of the memories that were more vibrant.Khushi could still fell ASR's warm breath,his strong hold around her petite waist and blood rushed to her cheek of its own accord.

Her feelings were mutually shared by ASR who was pounded by a deep contentment.He sat in his bed,resting his back against the headboard as he stared in sleety depths of the pool.

Khushi had trusted him,confided him with skeltons of her past.She had unquestionably put faith in him.

Satisfied,ASR lay back on his bed.The day's events had proved to be a turning point .He eagerly anticipated the next morning,the next few days and the next few years.

Even as the two lovers eyes outshone the dazzle of stars in the glory of first love, an azure horizon and a terrible tempest awaited to strike!

Raizadas were huddled together in Anjali's room.

''Anjali bitiya,what is it?Why did you call us so late in night?''Naniji asked curiously.

Anjali opened her mouth to speak but was cut short by a muffled noise and moments later a bulky woman clad in a red negligee.Her face was covered in thick face pack and her hair was held in curlers.

Armaan who was standing near the door,jumped back in surprise at this sudden and strange appearance and landed on lakshmi,who ran for her life bleating loudly,leaving the latter sprawled on floor.

''Armaanji!''He was immediately helped to his feet by Anjali and Akash.

''Hello,hi bye bye,Damadji,I'm bhery sorry!''Mamiji said abashedly.

''Mano,when will you stop scaring day lights out of people with your fad for mke up?Isn't it good enough that you chicken me out everyday?''Mamaji asked,rolling his eyes.

''Hello hi bye bye,how can you say this?I do this to look bootiful,not that you'll understand it.You've grown old!''Mamiji argued even as everyone stifled their guffaws.

Even after 26 years of their marriage and having a 24 years old son,the couple hadn't changed even in slightest.

They continued to bicker until Anjali intervened,stopping their row.

''Mamiji,Mamaji,please this is very imporatant.Please listen to me!''She pleaded.

When she was sure that they had stopped and settled down she began.

''Its about Chote.He had changed a lot in last few days.The masquerade  of ruthless ASR is fading away slowly,leaving Arnav who is warm and caring and its all due to khushiji.I know my chote is in love with her,but knowing chote,it won't be till at least ten years that he confesses to her aand obviously khushiji won't wait that long!I think we should do something to throw them together.I want your ideas.''Anjali peered around expectantly.

''That all is fine Anji,but don't you think we should also try to know about khushiji's feelings before doing anything?''Armaan queried.

''Don't worry about that.From what I've learned from Akash,I'm sure she too loves our chote,though just like him she wouldn't acknowledge it.We just have to tweak them a bit!''Anjali's eyes twinkled.

''This Saturday is Akash's birthday.Why don't we throw a birthday bash and invite khushiji in it?''Armaan suggested.

''That's perfect!''Anjali chirped and everyone nodded.

''By the way,we can invite Payalji too.It will make some..I mean everyone happy, won't it?''Armaan asked winking at Anjali.

''Sure sure!''Anjali chortled grinning wickedly at Akash,who excused himself from the room immediately.

Far away from the happy soiree,sat Shyam draining glasses of Vodka.The searing in his throat was nothing compared to that in his head and heart.

''I made a mistake,but I won't repeat it.Khushiji you are mine and I won't let that rascal ASR touch you!''He growled,a conflagration in his blood shot eyes.

The eclipse was going to dawn!

PART 35

''I escaped that fatal accident with a broken arm and few wounds.My mother saw the speeding truck and pushed me out of the car and luckily I landed on a soft patch of mud.I saw them die before my eyes .After that,that minister threatened that if we uttered a single word about it to anyone.But my papa,I mean Garima Ma's husband, was adamant about making everyone see the true face of those perverts which was masqueraded by their money and power.Ma was against it.She had already lost her younger sister and brother-in-law and she couldn't bear to lose me.After that we moved to Delhi,to Buwaji's place.''Khushi sighed, her nails digging in her palms.

ASR reached out and gently smoothed her grip,lest she hurt herself.They were having their lunch in Imperial Blue Restaurant.By the time they left the verdure clearing,they were famished so they decided to have lunch before going back to office.

''Years passed by but I never really recovered from that trauma.That incident triggered in me an aversion to men,except my papa so much so that I barely talked with guys even in school.In fact several times I nearly collapsed, hyperventilating and sweating profusely!My Mum and Papa took me to psychiatrists,but I simply couldn't get over it.That's the reason why my jiji is so protective for me.She assumed my responsibility,caring for me like a mother would do.''Khushi smiled.

''That incident is the catalyst behind me joining police force.I saw those nutters who ruined my childhood,making me an orphan,in every felon.!''She admitted and ASR felt as if he was hearing an echo of himself.

''But that would've been impossible,given my reservation when it came to men. Had it not been for Akash I would never have reached where I am.''

''Akash?''ASR was surprised.

''Yes him!He knows about my past.I met him in college and that was the first time I ever befriended a guy because he was not like others.He always looked out for me.Akash was the reason I was never ragged in college.''Khushi giggled.

ASR felt a pang of jealousy shoot through him.Why did she have to speak so glowingly about him?

''Akash helped me get over it,forget the past.If I'm able to converse with men without going crazy its all because of him.He's my bestest friend!''She said.

ASR was burning in envy.For the first time in his life,he regretted his decision of going to Mumbai for higher studies.Had he been here in Delhi,then he would've met khushi earlier and probably she would've been speaking so highly of him,not Akash.

A waiter came and placed a dish on table.

''Chocolate ice cream!''Khushi squealed in delight.

''How did you know that I like chocolate flavor?''She queried,her innocent eyes wide.

''You aren't quite subdued about it are you?I could wager,that whole office knows about your likes and dislikes by now!''Arnav teased,grinning lopsidedly.

Pink patches appeared on khushi's cheeks and she glared at him wordlessly.

She took a mouthful and closed her eyes,savoring its taste.

''Hmm,its so delicious!Arnavji you are the best!''Khushi quipped.

All his jealousy,that he were feeling moments before disappeared into a puff and a warm,fuzzy feeling enveloped him.

ASR was falling more for this bubbly,childish girl with every passing second!

PART 34

Khushi was besieged by tremors.It was as if every barrier that she had made to barricade her emotions had broken down and her pain flooded her en mass.

ASR held her as she sobbed,in a fierce embrace.His insides twisted seeing her anguish yet he couldn't do anything.The feeling of helplessness frustrated him.He could only too well see the magnitude of her immense hurt.

Suddenly khushi's phone rang and she took it out with shaky fingers.It was from Akash.She swallowed,trying to find her voice futilely.

Understanding her condition,ASR gently took her mobile from her hands.

''I'll talk to Akash.''He assured her and received the call.

''Khushi where are you?Why haven't you reached the office yet?Payal has called me at least a hundred times till now!Do you know how worried we were?Your phone was also not reachable!Just tell me where you are and I'll come and pick yo....''Akash shot questions faster that Malinga picks up a yorker!

''Akash relax!''

Akash was shocked to hear ASR's methodical voice on the phone.

''Bhai,you!But I called on khushi's cell...!''He trailed off uncertainly.

''Khushi is with me Akash!She was upset so I took her out for some fresh air.We'll be there in a few.Manage the office till then.''

''Sure bhai!''Akash replied and bit his lip.

''Bhai,is khushi OK?"He asked anxiously.

''Of course she is all right!Don't worry about her and yeah tell this to Payal too.'' ASR assured.

Akash immediately dialled a number after cutting the call.He had to tell his di.

ASR and khushi remained in the snug haven of their embrace,both unwillin to come out of it.Khushi's sobs had long died down,still they were welded to each other,like two pieces of puzzle,fitting together perfectly.

ASR had hios arms wrapped around her petite waist and buried his face in her sweet-smelling hair.Khshi had shivers down her spine,everytime she felt his warm breath tickling her hair line.

She sort of noticed when shadows of surrounding trees grew shorter and beating sunlight became opressive.Reluctantly,she came out of Arnav's warm embrace. 

ASR protested slightly by tightening his arms before letting her go.Khushi glanced at her watch and was stunned to see the time.It was a little beyond noon.

She had spent nearly 4 hours clinging to ASR!She looked up at him,a faint blush adorning her soft cheeks which promptly turned crimson at one look of ASR's wet shirt that she had conveniently sodden for hours.

''I'm sorry!''She said sheepishly,looking at him from under her lashes.

ASR smiled crookedly at her,loving her blush.

''Its Ok khushi!''

''I shouldn't have lost control like that but its just that...I get reminded of that Swapnil whenever I see Shyam!''Khushi admitted,her voice pale with revulsion and disgust.

ASR clenched his fist,trying to control the pang of ire that shot up his body.

''Don't worry khushi.If that pervert Shyam dared to hurt you,I'll screw him!''He promised,warming khushi's entire being.

 

PART 33

Khushi tried to put her scooty on stand but her quivering body was of no use.Her vision was blurred by a film of tears that filled her eyes.Suddenly she felt warm breath on her neck and almost instantly a pair of strong hands pried hers off the handle diligently.

Khushi looked up to see ASR parking her scooty.

ASR was waiting fretfully for khushi in the parking lot when she had arrived.His heart ached to see her pale,distraught face.What won't he give to have Shyam in front of him so that he could tear him from limb to limb for hurting khushi?But,that has to wait as his first priority was khushi.

''Good morning sir and thanks for this.''Khushi said abashedly,forcing a smile on her face.

ASR stared at her for a few seconds,his eyes a pool of liquid chocolate,radiating warmth.

''Khushi come with me.''ASR ordered.

''What?Where?..and office?''Khushi asked confused.

''It won't take long.Now come!''ASR promised,holding her hand in a feather-soft grip and walking towards his SUV.

Khushi followed him quitely,taken aback at her own reaction.When Shyam had held her hand she was repugnant;she felt as if she were tainted,filthy,but now as Arnav did the same there wasn't a shred of similar emotion coursing through her.There was no abhorrence or repulsion.Instead she felt at ease,protected,comforted....

Khushi vaguely saw the city flying by,but she barely noticed,her mind occupied.

Was it because he was Akash's brother,so it was only natural to trust him,have an unconditional,blind faith  on him?Though khushi tried to reason herself out with coherence,her subconscious knew she was lying.She didn't trust ASR just because he was Akash's brother.It was something more,something rooted deep....

''Khushi?''ASR's soft voice penetrated through her reverie.

''We've reached.''he said quitely.

Khushi looked around,absorbing her surrounding.They were in the midst of a labyrinthine of primordial trees.

ASR opened the door for her and she stepped out dazed into the verdant,serene clearing.

''Where are we?''Khushi queried,staring agape.

''Its just somewhere whwere I like to come to escape the mad rush of the city.'' ASR replied.

He took a deep breath and turned towards her.

''Khushi,are you OK?''tenderness in his voice surprised khushi .

''Yeah..I'm fine!''she lied.

''Did anyone ever tell you that you are abysmal at lying?''ASR sighed.

He gently took her wrist in his hand and pushed her sleeves up to see the bruise where Shyam had held her cruelly and a red haze enveloped him,a ringing sound in his ears,but he controlled it.He couldn't afford to lose his temper,atleast not in front of khushi.

ASR gently rubbed her wrist soothingly and took out an ointment from his pocket.He applied it on bruise so  gently that khushi barely felt anything.When he was done,he led khushi to the bonnet of the car,making her perch on it and he himself followed the suit.

''Khushi,Akash told me about what happened in the morning.About how that vile pervert misbehaved with you.But,I know  it wasn't just about that.Something else is bothering you...Because a brave girl like you won't be disturbed by such cheap antics.You could as well have given him a blackened eyes or a broken jaw then and there!I know you're troubled right now and I'm not coaxing you to tell me the reason,but I just want you to know that you don't have to worry or be upset. I'm there with you...''ASR stopped abruptly,mentally kicking himself for his slip up.

''I..I mean that we all are there to look after you and I want you to tell me if this repeats again.I promise you that I'll screw that Shyam person.But just for that khushi,don't be sad.There are people for whom your happiness,your smiles and laughter matters a lot.''ASR looked deep in her eyes,his eyes smouldering,telling untold things to hers.

Khushi stared at him for a protracted period,losing herself in him and then she spoke.

''I was 6 years old.''She began,staring non-unseeingly into space.

''My Dad was an IAS officer in Lucknow and my mother was a housewife.I was there only child,so it was no wonder that I was spoilt,little tyke!..There princess.''She smiled,lost in her childhood memories as Arnav gazed at her riveted.

''My childhood was filled with every imaginable kind of magnificence that a little girl could ask for..maybe more.Owing to the fact that my father was in a big post, we always went to lavish parties thrown by rich politicians and Entrepreneurs.I used to get bored in them because I seldom found children of my age....Then one day we were invited in a party thrown by the cabinet minister,Mr.Sunil Narayan...I insisted on staying in the house,but my parents refused.They were reluctant to leave me alone.''Khushi's face darkened and her voice sounded distant,like a threonody.

''We went to that party and I met him....Swapnil Narayan,Sunil Narayan's son.He was 21.I was immediately taken with him.He held me in his arm and introduced me to everyone,pampering me.I was happy because he was just like the elder brother I always wished that I had.I had not even the slightest inkling how very wrong I was!''ASR reached out and held khushi's hand,squeezing it.

''When my Mom and Dad were absolutely indulged in the party,enjoying themselves,he took me to show the house.Swapnil showed me arond there big mansion and took me to a room,which was far away from the hall where the party was going on.He plopped me on bed and...and began touching me..''Khushi's voice was a pained choke and ASR braced himself,his face white.

''When I asked him what he was doing,he said that I was too beautiful and that I would like what he was going to do next.He pinned me on the bed a..and tried to..tried to....I protested.I screamed for my parents,I wanted to go to them,but he stuffed my mouth with a handkerchief.I sobbed...but that monster didn't relent. But before he could do anything...door opened and my Mom and Dad came running in.My Dad was apoplectic with rage,I had never seen him that angry.That Minister tried to hush the matter by offering money to my Father,but he didn't budge.....My dad told him that he will report the matter to police and let everyone know the heinous truth of that Minister and his son that was veneered by their money and power.''

Khushi stopped and for several long moments nobody spoke.When ASR found his voice he asked the question that troubled him.

''Did your parents lodged a FIR against that Minister's son?''

Khushi turned towards him and her eyes were dead,lifeless.

'' Next day my Mum and Dad were run over by a rampaging truck!''

The next moment,she dissolved into uncontrollable tears!

PART 32

Shyam had received a blow-by-blow account of ASR and khushi's date from Chandru and a devilish fury possessed him.How dare khushi  clutch that ASR's arm when he hadn't so much as gotten to touch her?He spent the night restlessly and went straight to Gupta huse as soon as the great yellow orb rose in its halo in the clear,azure sky.

''Are Shyam babua!What a pleasant surprise!''Buwaji's smile was beatific.

''Namaste buwaji.''Shyam said and his coldness was evident from his tone.

''Shyam babua are you ok?''Buwaji asked not missing his aloofness.

''Of course!I'm absolutely all right!''Shyam replied,grappling for a bit of politeness.

Buwaji ushered him in the living room and made him sit on the couch.

''Don't stand there like a statue payaliya.Go and bring tea for him.''Buwaji chided Payal,who was watching Shyam through narrowed eyes.

''Its Ok buwaji,I don't want anything.I just came to meet you all.I've to get going!''

At that moment khushi barged in the living room,looking ravishing in a white shirt and black jeans.

''Maa,I'm going to office!Bye!''She yelled.

''Hello khushiji.''Shyam greeted her.

''Hello Shyamji!''Khushi nodded,without even glancing towards him.

''Come on sit with us.I'll drop you at your office later.''He urged her.

''Thanks,but no thanks Shyamji.I'm already running late!''Khushi replied dryly.

She walked towards the door,but was brought up short as someone stopped her by holding her hand.

''Your office starts at 8 am khushiji.What are you so eager to go there for?''Shyam asked through gritted teeth.

''Excuse me!''Khushi queried,looking at him questioningly.

''I mean you are overworking.It will soon get a toll on your health!''Shyam explained.

''He's so worried about you Sankadevi!''Buwaji blurted,beaming at them.Khushi rolled her eyes.

''Thanks for your concern Shyamji,but I'll be fine.I've got some work to finish.Bye!''Khushi said irritably,trying to take her hand out of Shyam's grip.

But,Shyam refused to let go,his grip tightening around her soft hand.All hi pent up ire and frustration were showing up.

''Come and sit with us khushiji!''He said quitely,a queer look in his pitch black eyes.

''Shyamji,leave me!''Khushi struggled.But,that infuriated him more ans he clutched her hand tighter,his nails digging in her skin,bruising her.

The malevolent,lecherous expression in Shyam's face shook khushi,terrifying her and memories of her hideous past,which she had long buried somewhere deep inside her came to her in a debilitating,unsettling blur.

She was once again in that dark,grubby room and he was pinning her down, uncaring for the pain he inflicted on her.She tried to scream,but a rough hand gagged her and she had never been so scared.

Payal saw the look of utter terror on her sister's face and she was furious.She could clearly see the ghost of her past in her sister's eyes and she found herself marching towards where duo stood,while buwaji sat agape.

''Leave her Shyamji!''Payal said seething in fury.

Red haze clouding Shyam's mind cleared a bit as he heard Payal's voice and his grip slackened.Khushi took advantage and rushed out of the house,fighting tears.

''Khushi wait!''Payal rushed behind her,but she had already hopped on her scooty and was gone.

''What happened Payal?''

''Why were you screaming bitiya and where is khushi?''

Shashi and Garima came running in the living room  hearing the racket.

''Shyamji,I think you should leave!''Payal said barely suppressing her ire.

Shyam,realizing his mistake thought better than to argue.He slouched out of the room.

Payal narrated the entire unfortunate incident to her parents.

''Buwaji,I mean absolutely no disrespect to you!But if that Shyam of yours hurt my sister ever again,I swear on God I'll forget every modicum of decency and throw him out of the house!''Payal fumed and stalked off to her room,leaving behind her stunned family.

Khushi's anguish was the only thing that ticked Payal off!

Payal pickec up her phone from bedside cabinet and dialled a number.

Akash was discussing some issues with ASR in his cabin when his phone rang.He looked to see Payal's name flashing on the screen.

''Excuse me bhai.....Hello Payal.''

Akash was alarmed by Payal's anxious voice.

''What's wrong?"He demanded.He listened for a moment,his expressions turning aghast.

''What?How dare that pervert touch khushi?''Akash was outraged.He loved khushi like his little sister and always looked out for her even in college.He was the only person apart from her family who knew about her past.

''What happened to khushi,Akash?''ASR asked.

Akash looked at his brother who was wild with anxiety.

''Don't worry Payal,I'll take care of her.Bye!''He snapped the phone shut and narrated the entire incident to ASR.

ACP Arnav Singh Raizada was flinching by the time Akash finished.He wanted to rip Shyam into zillionths of pieces for daring to hurt his girl!

PART 31

''Arnav ji,look!That's the constellation saptrishi!Isn't it beautiful?You'd think that someone has encrusted little diamonds  on inky black.''Khushi said dreamily, her eyes fixed above.

She had been babbling on for past several minutes,appreciating the  city while ASR looked at her in amazement.He had always seen Delhi as boring and monotonous as a monochromatic photograph,yet now as he heard her praises he couldn't help but admire the city himself.How could he have missed out so m any things?He could as well have been blind!

As ASR keenly observed khushi,he found that she was one of those very few persons who were capable of seeing the silver lining even in darkest of clouds,who painted others lives with bright colors of happiness and gaiety.

''Khushi,what's so interesting about these stars?I mean they are nothing but distant,cold bodies which are absolutely barren!''ASR asked curiously.

He had never understood people's fascination with stars or other celestial bodies for that matter,except for scientific research.Khushi frowned.

''Don't say like that Arnavji!Stars are one of the most beautiful gifts that the God has endowed on us human beings.They are our assurance,our guardians.If they were gone,how will we feel their love?''Khushi asked almost rhetorically.

''I didn't understand what you are talking about!''ASR admitted glibly.

''Arnavji,don't you know that the people who die eventually become stars so that they can look after their loved ones?''She asked.

''That's a load of crap khushi!People who are dead,are gone forever to never to come back!''ASR said more forcefully than he had intended.

''Love doesn't end with death Arnavji!It can never end.People who love us stay with us wherever they are!We can feel them......I can feel them.''Her voice was a bare whisper and she clutched ASR's hand hard,her nails digging in his skin,but he didn't flinch.

''My parents.''Khushi said abruptly.

''What?...But you...you live with your parents then?''ASR was shocked.

''There are my foster parents.My Ma is my mother's elder sister.They looked after me after the death of my parents.''Khushi said quitely.

''I'm sorry khushi!''ASR said anguished.

Khushi blinked hard to prevent tears from brimming over.She would've cried had it not been for the expressions on Arnav's face.

''You don't have to be Arnavji.In a way I'm lucky.You see,I've a family who absolutely adores me and parents who stay with me like shadows.That's why I love stars Arnavji.''She said earnestly and looked up at the clear black sky.

For a while no one spoke,each lost in their thoughts.Khushi unconsciously moved closer to ASR.Suddenly she spoke.

''Do you know Arnavji,when I was a child I used to think that these tall buildings could touch the sky....I used to think that if I climbed to the top of one of these,I will reach the sky and meet my parents....''She smiled faintly.

ASR could see through her smile.Though she pretended to be a happy-go-lucky girl,deep down she was just an innocent child who missed her parents terribly. ASR couldn't bear pain behind that smile and his heart ached.He was determined to bring her smile back.

''Khushi,come on I've to show you something.''He pulled her along and opened the food packets kept on table.Delicious,moth-watering smell wafted in the air.

''Aloo ke parathe,jalebi and aloo tickii!''Khushi squealed,her smile growing into an ear-to-ear grin.

ASR sighed in relief to see his plan work.

Khushi gorged on her favourite food,enjoying it immensely as ASR sat in front of her contented.

His childisn,crazy khushi was back!

Later that night as Arnav Singh Raizada laid down on his bed,he recalled every moment that he had spent with khushi with a deep satisfaction.

He had never in twenty eight years of his life,had a more gratifying night than the one which had just passed.....

 

PART 30

Khushi and ASR had a difficult time concentrating on their work.Their dinner date kept them preoccupied.Worst one was khushi who had butterflies somersaulting in her stomach.

They tried to pacify their throbbing heart by terming the dinner as a mundane formality,an apology,yet they both couldn't help but glance at watch every minute.

Time seemed to be slugging yet it had never been so fast!

In eager anticipation of the date,ASR and khushi quite conveniently forgot that situations could flop even best of plans and drop them into cold bag.

The fact that they were the members of one of India's most imminent Intelligence agency didn't help it either.Not so surprisingly,they were flooded by so many case of National security,high profile espionage,murders,rape and mugging that their desks and cubicles were burdened under heaps of precariously kept legal documents and evidences.

Normally ACP Arnav Singh Raizada had never been perturbed by burning his brain cells to the limit yet today it irked him to no end.He was frustrated.Given the amount of workload they had,khushi and he didn't have a prayer of going out for dinner.

Still he was determined to keep his words.ASR leaned back in his chair and let his mind buzz until the idea struck him.

He immediately called Chandru and gave him instructions.But unlike every other time,he had a strange jittery feeling in his stomach.

For the first time in his life ASR was nervous.

''Khushi,we've to go!''ASR said.

It was 10'o clock but still S.T.F office was bustling with activity.Khushi was sitting in the conference room,pouring over some papers when ASR found her.She had her hair tied in an untidy bun and her long tresses kept caressing her face.Even all messed up she looked ethereal.

 ASR continued to ogle at her until her voice broke his trance.

''Huh,Where?''She asked confused.

''We're going on dinner.''ASR reminded her.

''But Sir there's so much of work.We really can't go out!Maybe some other time...''Khushi said glibly,but was interrupted by ASR.

''We're not going out.Now come along will you?''He said sternly and walked off with khushi at his heels.

They entered the elevator and ASR pressed the button.

''Where are we going?''Khushi asked curiously.

''You'll come to know soon.''ASR replied shortly.

Doors slid open and ASR walked past her wordlessly in the dark lobby beyond.

Khushi looked around bewildered.They were on the eighth and the top most floor of the S.T.F office.On their right,a huge mahogany door led to the archives  which stored every case that the S.T.F had handled since its establishment.

On the far end was another door,nearly discrete in long shadow of the room.ASR opened the door and stepped aside to let khushi in.

Intrigued,khushi walked past him only to be taken aback.

They were on terrace of the building.Two chairs were set round a plastic table on which packed food lay.

Khushi pootled in amazed.Though there were no flowers,scented candles,fancy lights or a stereo piping some soothing melody,as they had in movies and soap operas,it was simply perfect in a unique way.

Silvery moonlight bathed the entire place and star dappled sky added to it being surreal.Gentle breeze played with her tresses and khushi felt invigorated.She absolutely loved it.

ASR walked behind her nervously.He knew it wasn't much and he wouldn't have been surprised if she walked out,refusing to dine there.

''Its so beautiful!''He heard khushi exclaim.

ASR opened his mouth uncertainly to apologize as he thought she was being sarcastic but was stopped short at the look on her.It was that of sheer joy!

As he looked on startled,khushi turned towards him as if she had just now gotten aware of his presence.She came excitedly up to him and dragged him along with her to the edge,unconsciously clutching his hand tighter.

''Look! It looks so beautiful from here,Arnavji!''She gushed,admiring the frenetic  city.

But her words didn't register on ASR who was busy gazing at her.Khushi's disarmed him,childish fervour had disarmed him,had robbed him of his antagonistic facade.

His life had been like an unending,dark night.But now as he drowned in her and   resurfaced ,he wasn't the same bitter man who saw darkness in everything.

ACP Arnav Singh Raizada had fallen in love.....

PART 29

Khushi's irked anger on ASR was replaced by surprise on seeing his concern for her over night.The way he had dragged her out of auto and dropped her home safely simply refused to get out of her mind.He had been so worried about her.

Mere thought of it made her heart soar to great heights while her brain refused it stubbornly.

But,why would he?A small,rational voice asked her.

''Khushi you're losing your marbles.That laadgovernor was just being a gentleman and a responsible chief that's all!He would probably have done the same thing with other female officers over here.So no reason to get all worked up!''she berated herself thousandth time,yet howsoever hard she tried,she couldn't win over her throbbing heart.

She had seen guilt and regret in his expressive,brown eyes,had she not?Despite their hectic and absolutely draining schedule yesterday,he had not left a single chance to strike conversation with her and that too on relatively unimportant and silly issues,like a teenage boy trying to gratify his miffed girlfriend!

Khushi blushed furiously at the comparison even in her thoughts.

''Khush,are you OK?''A voice broke through swirling haze in her brain and she looked up to see lavanya standing before her.

''Huh?Of course la!There's nothing wrong with me!''Khushi blinked at her.

''But something has to be since you were smiling and blushing on your own.'' Lavanya grinned,wriggling her eyebrows like villain in vaudeville.

Khushi mentally kicked herself for her goofiness.

''There's nothing like that la!''she tried to reason out hastily.

''Of course there's something like that since you don't find a sane girl smiling and blushing on her own.''Lavanya persisted stubbornly,a cheeky smile on her face.

Khushi rolled her eyes in response,avoiding her probing gaze.

Khushi and Lavanya had always got along smoothly.In fact they were so close that no one could tell that they had met just a fortnight ago.It was as if they had known each other for years.

''Its about ASR isn't it?''Lavanya asked teasingly.

She perched atop khushi's table staring at khushi,her eyes brimming with mischief.

Even a blind man could see the spark between ASR and Khushi!

''What the!No!''Khushi gasped.But red spots on her face proved to be traitors.

''Don't lie khushi.You're blushing!''

''La,either you're reading much of twilight series and mills and boons or your love for Aman has thrown you off your chumps!''Khushi snapped irritably.

''Don't be a hypocrites khush!Its you who is going crimson and looking all dreamy and stuff not me!''But even as lavanya said,blood rushed to her cheeks.

''See who is speaking!''Khushi smirked.

They continued bickering on their who-is-in-love theory until they were interrupted by ACP Arnav Singh Raizada.

''Khushi,come to my cabin.''he ordered and sauntered off.

Lavanya shot a triumphant,I-told-you-so sort of look to khushi which was studiously ignored by her.

Once in the cabin ASR turned towards her,his discomfort apparent from his face.

He took a deep breath and opened his mouth to speak.

''Khushi about yeasterday,umm actually I wanted to...''But he was cut short by khushi who knew what was coming and suddenly felt that she didn't need to hear it.

''Its Ok Sir.I know you didn't mean it.You don't have to say sorry.''

 ''But I shouldn't have talked to you like that.I should apologize.''ASR protested.

''You don't have to.I have already gotten over it.''Khusji said and as she spoke she knew that was true.She too couldn't stand not talking to him.

''But,I should make amends.Will you come for dinner with me?''ASR asked, feeling abashed and hopeful.

''What?But,you really don't have to!''Khushi reasoned.

''Still I want to do that.It will make me feel better.''ASR persisted.

''Ok!''Khushi gave up shyly.Nobody could disappoint such a face.

ASR beamed like a small child.

''Then be ready at 9 tonight.''

''Sure.''Khushi nodded and walked out of his cabin blushing.

They were going on-as some may call-a date.

PART 28

''Buwaji,Dad has been showing me some photographs of girls...He wants me to get settled.''Shyam dropped the bomb after hours of patiently hearing buwaji's babbles.

''What?So what have you decided?''buwaji asked.Her dreams of getting Shyam and Khushi married crashing round her ears.

''I don't know buwaji.None of them are my type.I hjust want a simple, understanding  girl who'll be my staunchest support if need be.''Shyam sighed, looking at buwaji.

His words brought respite to buwaji who grinned from ear to ear.

''You're such a sweet boy!With God's grace you will soon get your soul mate!'' Buwaji said moonily,already dreaming about the lavish wedding.

Shyam smirked.He had achieved his goal.

After some time,Shyam took leave from Guptas and zipped through morning traffic,whistling cheerfully.Now he had nothing to do but to let buwaji be the good samaritan and get khushi to marry him.He felt buoyant as if a heavy, oppressive  weight had been lifted off his chest.

Shyam's mind wandered to the phone call that was the catalyst behind his earlier tumult.....

''Boss,I have a good news!I think ASR is falling in love with a girl!''Chandru's barely concealed excitement was evident even on phone.

The man leaned forward in his high-backed chair.His eyes gleaming.He could use the girl as weakness to strike ASR and make him vulnerable.

''Are you sure?Who is it?''He asked.

''It is one of the pretty head lady officers,Khushi Gupta.He really seems to care about her and....''But Chandru's words were lost in a fanatic einging in his boss's ears.

A vein throbbed in his head and ire like never before had his body aflame.How dare that vile git ASR fall for his girl?

He snapped the phone shut and formulated a plan.He needed to act fast.

''I won't let you get away with this ASR.KhushiHe is mine to possess.''He growled, crushing the stress ball to its minimum.

Shyam drove aptly,riding a jittery high.He felt contented after spending a restless night.He had come across several beautiful girls in his life,yet their memories faded in front of khushi.There was something so elemental about her.

Shyam sighed happily.Once married,he will take her far away from everyone...... from ASR.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Shashi Gupta was sitting in his bedroom,his mind a perfect tangle of concern and doubt.Morning incident had transpired before his eyes and he had immediately seen through Shyam's pre-orchestrated act.

Why was he so desperate to marry khush?

He had noticed Shyam's growing preoccupation and interest in khushi over past few days.Though logically,it should please him that a boy with a good family background,that too the son of his own best friend had fallen for his daughter, but  it worried him.

Shyam's fascination with khushi was unhealthy.Only the other day,he had noticed the delinquent-like,feverish anger in Shyam's eyes when he had found khushi giving direction to a guy who had lost his way.He had questioned khushi so harshly on the same that Shashi had a hard time not to simply throw Shyam out of his house.But of course he couldn't do so for the sake of his friendship with Surinder.

On top of that,he had heard some rumors about Jha family which weren't very appeasing to put it mildly.He could tell something was amiss.

Fear for the well-being of his youngest daughter khushi,gripped him and it was debilitating.

''Papa?''

His disturbed train of thoughts was brought to a halt by Payal.He looked up to see Payal standing before him.

''Papa,I wanted to talk about something.''She began,not meeting his eyes.

''What is it bitiya?''Shashi asked concerned.

''Umm,Papa,that Shyamji....I mean buwaji,is planning to get khushi married to him.I..I don't think that he's good for khushi.He's so self-obsessed,like creepy. Even khushi doesn't like him.She won't ever be happy with him.''Words tumbled out of Payal's mouth in wild torrent.

Shashi gazed at her anxious face.She knows!He thought.

''Do you think I'll get khushi married against her wishes?Don't worry,nobody will force khushi into this.''he assured her.

''Oh Ok!''Payal felt relieved.She turned to go out of the room.

''Bitiya?''Shashi called.

''Ji,Papa?''Payal asked.

Shashi opened his mouth uncertainly.He had to come out with it!

''I just want you to not to leave khushi for a single minute when Shyam is around.''he said.

Payal stared at her father's expression and what she saw alarmed her.

Things are more dodgier than they appear to be!She thought.

''Of course Papa!I'll certainly do that.''She promised.

Father and daughter duo were ready to protect and fight for their khushi with all they had....