The place where I am now

A very merry christmas!

I said these very words the other day to someone, and he said, "I don't celebrate christmas". I was undeterred and I flashed a brilliant smile at him and said, "We all celebrate the spirit of christmas".

On that bright sprightly note I sit with my laptop (a different one now, if you are wondering, since my old trusted friend, the laptop I owned was stolen). Its sunny outside and just the fact that I have a holiday makes me happy.

Which naturally leads to one main question in my brain.. what is it that I want to write about..

A while back I had written about a show.. Newsroom.. 
http://aarwensspells.blogspot.com/2014/06/newsroom.html


I watched the finale last week and ruminated about story telling. 

Serendipitously, that was just when my sister-in-law,  the same one who got me to try out 100happydays, read out a quote to me..

"Singing is like praying twice"

I typed in this phrase in google and was about to read about it, when I decided I didn't need to. I can't sing, but I already had a meaning of the phrase in my head and these few moments in the newsroom finale cemented the thought beautifully.

**Warning: Newsroom finale spoilers ahead**

Charlie, the benevolent godfather, lets call him, of all the members of the newsroom, suffered a stroke. There is the intelligent Howard grad who blames her rebellious side for his heart giving up. There is chaos at the uncertainty about the future that might have threatened everyone. And there is the man who has just come out of jail to find his best friend, a father figure in some ways, a beloved boss, gone forever.

They are at Charlie's funeral. And here comes the stellar story telling. The deceased man had two grandchildren.  The viewer is meeting them for the very first time. I could not take my eyes off the elder one. There is a look of distinction, intelligence and sincerity. Child actors in English shows are the very best. 

The man, whose best friends is dead, walks upto his best friend's grandson. And sings.

I am dying to explain why I liked this so much. How beautiful it was, he told the boy the truth. Then a song, to make the boy feel less lonely. Actually an outlet for everyone. And before leaving letting the boy simply know, "If you need someone to talk to, now that your grandfather won't be around, I am here". 

I shouldn't explain it you. That is the point. None of this had to be explained. The creators rely on the intellect of the audience and on the response from their gut. 

You may like it for some completely different reason. You may like the song just by itself. You may have liked the scene for the memories it brings of such nice characters that the show has. It will be personal and yours.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kp04NqmwWn4

I can't embed the video here, but do click and please watch this.

This episode taught me about writing too, because that is where I am now. I want to write. And write well. While this scene played out I suddenly felt inspired.

The trick is in leaving the things unsaid also speak in the most profound ways. The trick is in suffusing joy in hearts of people who will read the words I have penned down. The trick is in inspiration while entertaining. The trick is in being yourself. The trick is in believing in magic. The trick is in enjoying what you are doing. The trick is in letting your skill speak to you. The trick is in concentrating on the now and allowing it to lead you to unknown limitless spaces.

"Memphis is a stand in for wherever you are right now. That it really means, thats how I got here."

- Charlie Skinner quoting his teenage grandson

arshi SS: Hamesha ~ a heartbeat away, chapter 11

Aaj mausam hai suhana.. Barun ki movie ka wait karne ka hai bahana..
la la la la la
His movie is releasing!!! I wish him lots and lots of luck.


Credit - Wiwy.. thanks a lot for this. I love it.


Chapter 11


Khushi Kumari Gupta was standing in the middle of a crowded Lakshminagar street, early in the morning, happily munching on a handful of channas. Payal was inspecting the vegetables on display in a nearby stall.

Both girls were in pastel shades of yellow and green kurta with matching flower embroidery on it. Fresh and pretty, in the hustle bustle of regular Lakshminagar. The dresses and unaffected air were where the similarity ended.

The younger sister was doing no work and gazing into space, while the elder sister had an extremely busy efficient air about her. Her jhola was already full of vegetables and Payal was bargaining on more.

"Aaj mausam hai suhana..gaana gaane ka hai bahana.. What the what the what". Khushi suddenly sang happily, looking all around. Then noticing a crispy looking karela she ran upto Payal, "jiji lets have karela for lunch today".

"karela? lekin achanak kyu? chalo baba.. achcha Khushi.. I am buying it", Payal continued her bargaining. Khushi moved away pretending nonchalance. There was no need to tell di that buaji had been talking to Khushi about the benefits of karela to someone with diabetes.

Bitter, hard to swallow. Today that did not feel bad. On the contrary it felt exciting. Her heart felt overwhelmed at the vegetable that actually did good deeds.

devi maiyya hum pagal ho gaye hai.. She threw up her hand in the air. Of all the things possible, she was spending time thinking about a kerala, and that too fondly! sab us laad governor ki galti hai..

The intoxicating feel of his lips as it moved against hers flashed before her eyes. She had never ever imagined that his tongue could be so soft.. Clutching onto her forehead, her eyes rose upwards in despair.

dhak dhak dhak.. How hard had she tried not to think about it.. About him.. But wasn't it funny that the mouth that seemed to always move in anger could do such things too? Make her feel all sorts of things. So it was not funny.. but she did not know what other name to give..

She had walked a little further away from the hum drum of the market. And as the panic inside her quelled a little she could focus on the warm tender feeling inside her.

He did not need to help her. He did not need to dance with her. And there was definitely no need to do.. that..

She never did thank him for the times he had helped her. And he had wanted her to.. Khushi gulped.. Then determined to say it in her head.. She continued.. He wanted her to kiss him.. devi maiyya why did it not feel wrong at all? Instead he felt exciting, and reassuring. He was unpredictable, but still the one who would come har bar. He was scary and yet he made her feel safe...hamesha.. And she wanted to run away when he looked at her a certain way, but she also wanted him to continue looking at her that way.

A horn blared nearby and she was brought back to the present. A man who was selling flower garlands was walking past her.

"bhaiyaji.. do haar dena", she called out to him. She had decided she would buy two garlands. One for Lakshmiji, who would look gorgeous with the orange flowers around her neck and the other for mamiji's hair. She would go to shantivan and give it to them.

And while she was there she would tell that akroo laad governor that it was all a mistake.. She had not been thinking clearly that is why she had.. nai nai devi maiya.. It is better not to think about it..

"la la la la la la".. Humming she turned to go back to her jiji when she stopped in her tracks.

"Khushiji kaisi hai aap? Humne socha that it is a wedding house, there must be hundreds of things to do. And what all can buaji do alone. Toh bataiye humein if there is anything I can help with. For old time sake you can tell me Khushiji". A sickly sweet smile was plastered on Shyam's face.

He made a movement towards Khushi, but her face had hardened and she put up her hand to stop him from approaching her further. She was about to move away, but Shyam grabbed her wrist. "Aisi bhi kya berukhi Khushiji. Did I not explain to you? I only want to help you and buaji. After all there was a time when I was also part of this family".

She jerked her hand free and resolutely faced the creep. "bas kijiye Shaymji. How dare you come here and talk to me? yaad rakhiye humne sirf Anjali ji ke khatir kuch nahi kaha hai ab tak. But don't take my silence as my weakness. I cannot stand the sight of an immoral person like you. Next time don't come near me".

"Khushi Khushi".. Payal was making her way towards them. Seeing her Shyam decided to slink away. Sooner or later Khushi would be all his. He could wait a few more days.

An extremely worried Payal reached near Khushi. "Why was Shyamji here?", she asked. Payal could not stand him. Even when he had stayed as paying guest in buaji's house and buaji would go on praising him, Payal had felt a strange weariness about the man. Perhaps it was the fact that he was a bit too helpful, perhaps his coming to stay at buaji's place was a little too convenient. Payal had always felt uneasy around him.

And when buaji had forced Khushi into agreeing to marry him, Payal had been certain that it would be a mistake. Her sister had always dreamed about love and rajkumars. She shuddered to think what would have happened if Khushi had not come to know on time. But the kind Anjali di had not been as lucky. Payal felt sad at the unfairness of it.

"choro jiji. I strictly told him to stay away from me. jiji wish we could do something about it. Anjali ji kitni achchi hai. She does not deserve her heart broken this way". Khushi sadly spoke up as the sisters walked home.

In a fanciful hour Payal did contemplate Shyam might be in Gupta house to rob their unsuspecting trusting buaji, but never would she have dreamed he was married. And as fate would have it he was married to Anjaliji. Anjaliji who was gracious and cheerful always. Why did nice people always have to face challenges.

They had reached home lost deep in thought. Then after emptying the shopping bags in silence both sisters were out in the verandah removing clothes that had been set out to dry.

"Khushi everything will change soon. Shantivan humara ghar hoga. Akashji and Arnavji are very nice straightforward and caring. We cannot hide this from them". Payal spoke determinedly.

Khushi dumped all the clothes in her hand onto the floor and rushed to give her wise elder sister a hug. "jiji hum bhi yehi soch rahe the. par jiji am worried for Anjali ji and that rakshas. I don't want to see them sad".

"hai re nand kisore. dhula kapra jameen par fek kar gale lagat hai duno beheniya!". Buaji's eyes were watery and she engulfed her two nieces into a smothering hug. She was going to miss them a lot.

(Throwing away washed clothes both sisters are are hugging each other!)


****


"di jeejaji is not here again, and you are again in this mopey state". ASR was sitting with the newspaper in the hall.

"aur tumhe time mil gaya to notice my state? Then why don't you also notice that the newspaper you are holding is upside down chote?"

The truth was that ASR was right, Anjali was restless and lonely. Shyamji has been irritable and elusive the last couple of days. Anjali had vaguely hoped the wedding festivities would be the perfect occasion when Shyamji would be able to take some time off from work and be with her. Instead he only went further away.

"Huh"? ASR questioned. Then quickly corrected the orientation of the paper as his di's words settled in.

Anjali could not help smile indulgently at her brother. "chote stop this huh, hu.. And see yourself. chote ab na tum pehle wale chote nahi rahe. You have changed".

ASR could sense panic rise within him.

"Chote you are not even scary nowadays. Trust me, ye sab Khushiji ka asar hai". Anjali limped across to the sofa where he was sitting and firmly tugged the paper away from his face.

"di.. aise kuch nai.."

"bas chote. Not one word will I hear. Om Prakashji aap kahiye... hasn't our chote become new and improved?". Om Prakash had just come in with a steaming mug of coffee on the tray.

He squeaked after he heard Anjali's question and the coffee had a hard time staying in the confines of the cup. "hehehe humein toh Khushiji bahutehi pasand hai Anjaliji.. Humka lagat hai.."

"Om Prakash.. Shut up..". ASR muttered gruffly, desperately wanting the conversation to end. Even Om Prakash was now match making, what had the world come to! A little yelling would do him good. In fact everyone needed to see the return of stern Arnav Singh Raizada.

Anjali had already read his mind because she firmly wriggled her finger at him."Chote try karne se bhi you can't go back to being the way you were, samjhe tum? pyar humein badal deta hai. We don't know how or when, but an irreversible change happens and the world starts to sing and smile and we dance along".

"Ha Anjali bitiya sahi kaha aapne. Om Prakash humare sath chaliye chatt par phool mala lagane mein humari madad kijiye". Their nani was walking by with a big basket of flowers.

(you are right. Om Prakash come with me and help me put up the garlands on the rooftop.)

ASR's eye brows had crooked a little as he grimaced. "Di now please don't start with the saasein ruk jayegi nonsense. And you know very well I don't like songs or dances. and am not marrying".

"achcha chote, toh why did you dance with khushiji all evening. hum toh dur khare the, but from where I was standing it did look like you you were dancing". Anjali reached up and twisted his left ear a little.

He indulgently shook himself free, but Anjali continued in a sweet patient tone. "chote you have always faced the facts. Don't run away from them when they are the most important decision of your life. Listen to what your heart must be trying hard to tell you..". Saying this she got up to take a look at the decorations on the roof.

She did not wait to see the confounded look appear on her brother's face as his mind raced over the fact that he had danced... And had wanted it to go on forever... He had driven chattering old ladies to a temple, missing office. He was helping with preparations for what might very well end up being his own wedding... And all the while he was wrapped up completely in one girl and her thoughts...

Di had talked about change.. Where was the Arnav Singh Raizada jise koi larki se koi farak nahi parta. He stared unblinking ahead, his eyes losing focus. It hurt to think of her as "koi larki".. She was Khushi...his Khushi.. Only his.. He had made it clear to himself and her.. The girl he longed to kiss.. To hold close.. To see smiling.. Hamesha..

dhak dhak dhak.. A strange sound reverberated in his ears.. His heartbeat... he thought in wonder.

And a whiff of air seemed to ruffle his hair.. She was here.


He went still, only his eyes moved, finding her with unnerving certainty. She was kneeling down near the front door, talking to a goat and dressing it with flowers.

He shook his head aghast, flecks of amusement shining in them. He had kissed her dammit! And he wanted to taste her again.. And she was busy with her Lakshmiji, with no thought of meeting him first. She was infuriatingly ajeeb, but the breath of fresh air that he needed in his lungs.

What the! That sounded suspiciously exactly like something di would say.."ASR snap out of it". Did he just talk aloud to himself? Khushi Kumari Gupta was plain and simple bad influence on him. But then he could return the favour...

With a devilish smirk he decided it was about time for some bad influence on Khushi Kumari Gupta. She was standing, quite nervous, and was ready to tear her duppatta wringing it around with her hands.

Coming straight to point he started, "I was thinking about yesterday. Kya kiya tumne Khushi?"

She turned a shade of deep scarlet and fidgeted some more, only succeeding in making ASR lose control. He rapidly advanced towards her as she shrunk back mumbling, "hum.. wo.. aap.. hume jana hai".

He raised his fingers and touched her lips. "shh..", came a gravelly whisper. Her gaze remained riveted to him.

"Khushiji", came another high pitched voice from behind them, breaking their trance. NK was making his way towards them. "aap aa gayi? aap aayi baarh aayi. main tabse rasta fek raha tha. ab jake aakhen haar gayi. ".

(you came? With you floods have come.. Since long I have thrown away roads.. Now lost my eyes)

Khushi laughed delightedly. "nanheji raasta fek raha tha nahi..dekh raha tha.. And aakhe haar nai aakhen char. And baarh mein toh hum sab doob jayenge. Bahaar hi achcha rahega.. Hai na?"

She had moved a little away from ASR who had his lips pursed and was viewing NK's presence with a marked dislike and a steely eyed glance.

"Khushiji chaliye I will show you the decorations. sab aapke liye sajaya gaya hai..mera matlab for you and Payal bhabhi". NK wriggled his eyebrows in excitement and ASR snarled.

He heard his phone vibrate, and took out the bluetooth from his pocket, fixing it to his ear. "What is it Aman? Can you not handle a single damn thing yourself ever?", he growled on the phone. Then halfheartedly calming down he walked away. A pair of wistful eyes followed his departure, even as he half turned to catch a last glimpse of them before he got on the conference call.



****


Pressing the button on his bluetooth he disconnected the call taking purposeful quick steps towards the spot he had left Khushi an hour back. He was still in a dark mood and a slight pout was prominent on his face. Where was she?

"khoon bhari taang aur apni issister and phuture ma isssister-in-law ooo phati saree ke bhi bol diyo.. Last warningwa humaar kaan openj karke writingj mein note kari liyo..". Mamiji's loud voice fell on his ears. He saw Payal nearby, looking extremely dejected.

(khoon bhar taang and tell you sister and future sister-in-law-. This is my last warning that you should open your ears and note in writing..)

"mami I need to talk to Payal. And really, she has a nice name.. mami calm down okay..".

"hmmpp.. Hello hi bye bye..", mamiji swished around her hands in all directions and then with an extra sway in her hips walked away.

Payal gave a grateful glance at ASR, and waited to hear what he wanted to say. She was not even sure why her future in law had suddenly turned hyper. It disturbed her more than she cared to admit.

"Hope you are okay Payal. I know mamiji is not easy to deal with...", ASR spoke in a calm reassuring voice. His mami could get loud and dramatic at times, but what was inside was transparently on the outside. A little too transparent in case of Payal.

"hum thik hai Arnavji", Payal responded softly, with a hesitant smile.

"you know, you don't need to smile when you are hurt". ASR had a concerned thoughtful smile on his face as he addressed Payal.

"Thank you Arnavji. par jab tak Akash ji is with me and you are with Khushi.. Gupta sisters will remain smiling . And not just remain smiling, but hopefully bring smiles to other as well", Payal spoke up in a determined clear voice.

"Payal you are here already. Come let me show you the decorations", Akash was beaming at her and guided her by the arm in the direction of the staircase. Their short but sweet alone time in his room had ensured that Payalji turn permanently into Payal and Akash could not be happier.

Apparently it was becoming quite the norm of Shantivan to show the Gupta sisters the decorations, ASR thought ironically. He was left alone in the hall. Just then Khushi walked in alone, munching on what could only be a jalebi.

The sugary syrup intermingled with her taste. He was ravenous. He needed to kiss her.. Right now!

And this time he was not letting her go to see any new decoration with NK. He threatened the imaginary interrupter in his mind, but before he could reach those maddeningly inviting lips, the possessor of those lips was beckoned by someone else.

"khushiji khushiji ..", Om Prakash's excited voice rang out. Khushi's eyes darted towards a fuming ASR and then she scurried towards the kitchen.

Hell! this was insane... In frustration he slid his fingers through his hair.. How could it possibly be this difficult to get a girl alone for more than two minutes without goats, and interfering idiots descending upon them?


****

It was close to twilight outside. The strands of fairy lights had just started to glow. There was still a faint tinge of red that the setting sun had left behind in the far off horizon. The sky was crowded by flocks of birds flying back to their nests. The leaves on the nearby tree branches had a turned a sinister shade of black against the graying sky. A few early stars were already twinkling overhead.

Anjali was fixing the blood red orchids near the wrought iron swing on the roof. They were the most expensive kind, but would remain fresh at least a whole week. The fragrance of roses and chamelis also filled the air. There was no function today, but Anjali had wanted the house to be dressed up like a bride.

She was near the end of the roof, behind the swing, when Shyam found her. He climbed the last step and surveyed the roof. There was no one except Anjali.

He silently patted himself on the back. Why bother with something as elaborate as arsenic when a simple straightforward shove would do the trick. Off the ledge would go half his troubles! He would wail with tears pouring down his eyes, letting everyone know how lonely his life would be without his dearest rani sahiba. Everyone would be worried for their damaadji who would not eat or take care of himself.

And then in a few days in a double tragedy the son of the house would also die. And the son-in-law, Shyam Manohar Jha, would come out of his gloom to take control of the vast empire left without its boss. Obviously the girl meant for dead son would be married off to the grieving decent widower, the son-in-law, the heir to AR industries.

With an evil gleam in his dilapidated pupils he stealthily moved towards his unsuspecting wife. She shrieked as an hand rested on her shoulder.

"ranisahiba.. dhyan se.. If you will remain so lost then aapko chot lag jayegi. And then what will happen to me?" He crooned.

"aap bhi na..", she had come up with her usual response. He stopped himself from rolling his eyes. How silly was this woman and blindly trusting...

"arre look at the balcony. How have they placed the fairy lights? arre humare saale saab ki shaadi hai, everything should be perfect. chaliye hum hi sahi se laga dete hai". He moved towards the railing, knowing well who would follow.

"aap sabka kitna khayal rakhte hai. I am very lucky Shyamji". Anjali followed him to the edge, just as he had predicted.

Now all that remained was a little distraction which would hardly be difficult, since she was gullible enough to even believe a flying bear was crossing by chewing on a chewing gum, if Shyam happened to point that out. Pity! That someone so easy to handle had to be sacrificed.

"ranisahiba.. neeche dekhiye kya ho ra hai", he mocked a laugh.

Then as Anjali eagerly peered over the railing he put out his arms. It was time for her end.



****

A story to tell

The last 24 hours have been perhaps every blog writers secret fantasy. With enough substance to fill pages. There is intrigue, love, evil, heartbreak, dreams, friendship, atleast if you care to view it in that sense.

So without further ado I present to you the happenings of the night before.

Actually it started in the afternoon when aarwen was msged by a frantic lazywiz. There were tickets on sale for a play. Pride and Prejudice. Of course she had to say she would love to go.

So they went. Three hours of a charming show. Each dialogue faithfully spoken, even the narration used as dialogues by the actors. Did you ever notice how many tough words Jane Austen used in her book? How the sentence construction was complicated beyond imagination, but how the end product was most certainly delightful..

Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet are characters that have become archetypes embodying essential characteristics of a hero and heroine of a love story. Heroes are meant to be haughty but genuine and heroines have to be unconventional witty, yet sometimes a beautiful damsel in distress. Defy rules, maybe laid down by your own self, overcome prejudice, drop pride (or maybe too much of pride because a little of it is quite a perfectly good thing to have).  One has to melt and feel joy erupt, fall head over heals beyond reasonable judgement in irrevocable love. A little stormy, a little timeless, simple and still confounding. A love story.

A memory of the spotlight on a pair of lovers. The intelligent girl with bright startling eyes standing on tip toe to kiss the arrogant noble man. And just when the night could not have felt better in the parking lot they noticed their car window shattered.

What was stolen you want to know? Well one might say her office bag which had her laptop, headphones, phone charger and a notebook. But that's where the story begins. Two years of her life. Treasures safely tucked away in the black electronic chest. Office notes, IPK (you know that wonderful TV show?) edits, videos, photographs, writing.

My roommate , thought technically am ex, put it rather well I think when she said laptops are like an extension of oneself. I would go a little further. Do you happen to know the concept of horcruxes? Those objects that carry a part of one's soul.. J. K. Rowling explains this quite brilliantly in Harry Potter and in case you haven't read it you might surely want to stop reading this post and spend your time reading those books instead. The laptop was quite decidedly a horcrux.

Mr thief, you stole it. Do you know what all you stole? Not the money.. not the anxiety.. and really it gets quite depressing having things stolen from you.. but you stole memories.. No wonder Dumledore liked to siphon his thoughts into a pensieve for safe keeping.. again a brilliant device out of J.K.Rowling's imagination.

That was yesterday. Well I did promise a thrilling tale of an eventful 24 hours, so what followed?

Barun Sobti. Yes yes the TV actor I really really like. Only now as of the 12th of December, he is no longer just a TV actor, he is a movie star. I have been going crazy waiting for this and the day is finally here. Main Aur Mr Riight his debut movie released.

My friends and I and a lot of fans I don't really know, have all fervently prayed that he get success, but seems his movie isn't getting a favourable review. And me, in Seattle I don't even get to watch it. Can only hear and get more nervous.

But strangely as today came, and I knew he is on screen, I don't worry at all. He acts well. This I know. The reviews all praised him as an actor, of this am thankful. And am calm. He will be fine. Paraphrasing what Shahrukh Khan had to say, "Our lives are like our films. By the end everything turns out right, and if it hasn't, then picture abhi baki hai mere dost".

A lot of the readers must be indignant at this point. I know I promised love as well in this story. Kept the very best for the very last.

"No measure of time with you is enough, but lets start with forever".

                                                                             ~ Edward to Bella

You might wonder of Aarwen's mental state right this instant. And she let me assure you she isn't in a state to tell because she is overwhelmed with a feeling.

5 years of memories. You can take away a laptop, but Aarwen has spent 5 years with Lazywiz. If we go into technicalities its closer to 10 now. But formally 5 it is. 

Thank you is too common a word to express the sentiment. You are home. You are my best friend. When I found you I found who I was meant to be. You are off hand and tender. And then when you casually remark, "Danerys Targeryn tries to be good", when someone asks, "Is she good?", I can only look at you and wonder how I found you. You thrill me, make me laugh, make me safe, bring me peace. And this really is the story to tell. I love you. 

arshi ss: Hamesha ~ a heartbeat away, chapter 10

I can't believe I have written 10 chapters. Thank you so very much for reading hamesha.



Chapter 10

The sun was high in the sky, a time of familiar post-lunch inactivity. In a high backed armchair, covered in golden silk upholstery, sat a smiling women. On her lap was a single sheet of paper that she was writing on. The paper rested on an intricately carved oxidized silver jewelry box that contained two bangles. Her blessings for her future daughter-in-law in them.

A boy leaned forward curiously, dangling on one arm of the chair, while a slightly older laughing girl peered at the letter from the other side of the chair.

"ho gaya! All done and ready for my bahu. Chote, ab she will know aapko kitna gussa aata hai.. par hidden inside your heart kitna pyar bhi hai." If you listened closely, her mellifluous voice had an odd mixture of indulgence and seriousness. Lovingly she ruffled the boys hair, "I want a beautiful pyari bahu, samjhe chote?"

The boy narrowed his eyes and huffed, clearly not approving of the conversation. Even so his eyes strayed to the neat flowing handwriting that covered the paper. His intelligent bright eyes wondering what his ma wanted to say to this unknown girl about her chote.

His sister was laughing, as children often do, without a care in the world, her heart open to the exciting prospect held in the present. "mujhe bhi kangan chahiye ma. They are pretty. aur is papad ke tukde ke sath kaun rahegi? He will scare her away. Isn't it chote? Hahaha... but you will love her. You will not let her go na chote?"

The girl had swiftly got up, and made a dash for it. The boy close behind.

"ma dekho na, why is di teasing me? And anyway I don't want to stay with anyone. ma see di is not stopping.. maa.."


****

Arnav Singh Raizada woke up. The dream was not as disturbing as usual. This in itself was highly unusual.

Love.. the word lingered from the half forgotten dream..

In a flash he remembered the feel of smooth heated skin under his lips, her startled eyes and the give away blush that had spread on Khushi Kumari Gupta's cheeks.

He gave himself a shake, and walked over to sliding door closet. In one swift movement he pushed the door open and pulled out his towel. A hot shower would clear his head.

Her tinkling laughter echoed in his head. A firm reminder that she had no thoughts of leaving his thoughts. She was lodged in his memory and was going nowhere.

How her shapely fingers curled on his shirt lapel when he scooped her in his arms. How could anyone be this light? The trust in her eyes when she hugged him. How could anyone hold on so tight?

As the sharp jets of water cascaded on his body, loosening, relaxing his tensed muscles, he still couldn't get her images out of his head. He concentrated on the feel of the hot water against his skin. He felt awake. Alive.

The heat had condensed the cool air, leaving behind a hazy mist. ASR remained lost in the girl that danced with him. Who fit perfectly in his arms.

Refreshed from the shower he pulled out his immaculately coordinated attire for the day. As he quickly buttoned his crisp white shirt with sure practiced fingers, he still couldn't get her image out of his head.

A know-it-all smug voice in his mind even dared to whisper that he didn't really want to remove her from himself. If there was one thing he badly wanted.. needed.. it was to have her close.

He sighed as he walked out of his room and almost banged into an ever smiling Om Prakash. He gave curt instructions to Om Prakash to bring him some orange juice. Then made his way to the dining table, vaguely wondering why Om Prakash seemed so pleased with himself early in the morning.


****


"cupboardwa mein aisan ka karat the Aakas bitwa ki insidej ma self locking kari liye khud ko?"

(what were you doing inside the cupboard that you locked yourself inside?)

Hearing his mother's perfectly valid question a hapless Akash choked on the glass of warm milk he had been sipping. Helpful as always NK bent forward with full enegry patting the still spluttering Akash on his back.

None of the men on a the table had an answer. ASR was irritated. Had Akash not called he would have had Khushi to himself. Instead he had had to call NK to get him to unlock the door.

"ha chote? Cupboard ka darwaza torna par gaya aap logan ko? ee hua ka chote? I do not understand". Deviyani Raizada had a faint smile on her face, luckily, in a much better mood than her sleep deprived daughter in law. After all the noise and chaos yesterday night, Manorma had hardly slept and that made her more sour than usual.

"hum kahat hai sasuma eeha Shantibhan ma ghost hai. Bahutehi colorphul ghostwa eeha hua ghumat hai". She was in full blown James Bond detective mode.

Akash looked helplessly at ASR. Luckily they had managed to literally smuggle Payal and Khushi out of the house before NK and ASR attempted to break the closet door. Akash almost broke into a sweat just imagining what would have happened had his mother caught Payalji in his room. Surely from hello hi his life would have reached a certain bye bye.

Fortunately for the men of shantivan there was a smart young female in the house. Anjali slowly walked upto the dining table and pulled the chair next to Akash. Smiling she teased, "arree mami our Akash is getting married. ye sab confusion toh hota hi rahega. After all dil kahi hai aur dimag kahi. kyu hai na Akash?"

Manorma did not looked too pleased, but nani seemed to be mollified enough and directed her attention to the aloo paratha on the table. Akash furtively mouthed a quick thank you to his life saver di.

"Indian shaadi mein bahut malamal hai". NK declared amidst usual confused exasperated glances.

"NK bhai malamal nai.. I think you meant dhamal", Anjali corrected.

NK grinned just as usual. "That's right dhamaal.. yani excitement, right di? Cupboards breaking? Lovers meetings.. Ghosts appearing.. All a regular night in an Indian wedding. Kyu hai na Akash?"

Akash broke into a coughing fit again.

Not letting herself get side tracked, with a knowing smile Anjali continued. "humein Payalji and Khushiji ke ghar kuch samaan bhejna hai. NK bhai can you take the driver and drop the things at khushijis.."

Waisting no time ASR stood up."I'll take it di".

"par chote you must be busy. NK bhai can take it", Anjali persisted. NK chimed in hopefully. "Yes nannav no problem at all.. I can take everything to Khushiji."

ASR glared at NK and without looking at di, responded, "It's okay di. NK can get Akash's cupboard door fixed. I will go to Khushi's house".

"ha chote.. yehi thik rahega..after all you will get an opportunity to meet our would be bhabhi". Anjali teased, her eyes sparkling.

ASR walked away, knowing her di had succeeded in pulling his leg. Well, what the.. He would still get to meet Khushi. Nothing else mattered.

Even as he acknowledged it internally, he was surprised at how simply it fell in place.. Nothing else mattered, except he get to be with khushi..

At the table Anjali noted with satisfaction, the subtle change in her chote's behaviour. He had not denied the wedding. Her plan was working.

If only she knew how well her plan was working!


****


In Gupta house the ladies had gotten dressed early. A wedding house seemed to have a never ending list of work that needed to get done. On top of that there was a doctor's appointment. Payal had taken her amma and babuji to keep the doctor's appointment.

That left Khushi and buaji to take care of meeting the panditji. Lata mausi and taiji had helpfully volunteered to accompany them to the mandir, since it was common knowledge that a force of women were needed to deal with a panditji and wedding preparations.

They were already late when buaji noticed Khushi, standing, doing absolutely nothing, near the Gupta house door.

Madhumatiji had pinned a bright red hibuscus flower onto her hair near the nape of her rather wide neck. She thought the flower suited the mood.

Just like the orange kurta, with silver gota on the sides, suited her niece about to get married. Hai re nand kisore parmeswari was lost in her dreamland again.She was having these bouts of 'getting lost' more and more since she had fallen in love with Arnav bitwa.. Madhumatiji chuckled.. Trust her sankadevi to want to marry a man completely opposite to her.

But was he..opposite to her? Both had a fiery spirit, that could not be hidden. And did they both not love their family? Deviyaniji had told Garima and Madhumati a little about the hardship that Arnav and Anjali had suffered. There was something disturbing in their past, that Madhumati knew was still not completely revealed. She also knew if anyone could bring a smile on the seemingly khadoos Arnav Singh Raizada it would be her Khushi bitiya. She had seen how his eyes softened when he looked at her niece. There was little that got past the old lady.

ee liyo nand kisore.. Instead of jolting Khushi out of her reverie madhumati herself had gone into dreamland.

"aree aaphat ki puriya.. ooha khare khare ka kar rahi ho? Go call an auto. We are already late. Ka hoga tumhara Shantivan mein? Arnav bitwa toh time ka pakka hain hum sunat hai. Tum toh uke pagal hi kar dogi.. Nand kisore.."

"Don't worry buaji. Hum abhi auto lekar aate hain. Yu gaye aur yu aaye". Khushi grimaced at her shrieking buaji, and ignored the jibe about the man she did not want to think about. The man she was helpless not to think about.

The mention of that laad governor had brought a betraying warmth on her cheeks. He had kissed her.. devi maiyya.. and she had let me..

She closed her eyes and gave herself a violent shake determined not to think about it.. nahi devi maiyya.. humein nai sochna hai us baare mein.. She told herself as strictly as she could. But even as she spoke, her voice trailed away. There was no way she would manage to even remotely not think about that.

She ran out of the courtyard onto the road. Her payal tinkling as she sprang down the steps. Buaji was right. Thank's to that rakshas she was late. Lata mausi and taiji were also waiting inside. She peered all over for an auto. Willing a vehicle to materialize out of thin air.

It did. Just not the one she would imagine in her wildest dreams. Arnavji's white SUV drew to a halt right in front of her. He rolled down the tinted glass as she stood gaping, least expecting him there.

"Hi", was all he said. it was apparently more than enough.She felt goosebumps erupting all over.

"You look worried?", it was a serious question, only the tone was a drawl, and his lips tilted in a precarious angle. It was hard to focus.

She found herself stutter. "hum.. auto ka wait kar re.. We have to go to the mandir to talk to panditji". She had surprised herself by talking to him civilly.

In one graceful movement he had got down from the car and was striding into the house, while Khushi stood gaping. She was at a loss of words quite frequently in his presence these days.

She was about to get indignant at his lack of response, after she had shared her problem, when she was further stunned to see ASR helping taiji down the Gupta house steps. Looking even more frail than usual next to Arnavji, taiji was leaning onto him for support.

Khushi blinked, completely at a loss. Had buaji gone senile? Why had she not stopped lata mausi. What if laad governor got angry and let go of her with his favourite 'what the'... And what did he think was he doing? There was no auto outside yet. Why was he making them come out in the sun?

Completely disregarding her presence ASR moved towards the back of the SUV and opened the door, helping taiji inside. Buaji and lata mausi quickly scuttled towards the other side to get in.

Khushi had not moved an inch. Her mouth was slightly open, in shock.

ASR walked upto her and locking his gaze with hers, spoke softly. "Unless you want to drive us to the mandir I would suggest you go over to the passenger side and get in. Don't forget the seatbelt."

"Huh?", was all the poor dazed girl managed.

He grinned. "And I don't mind if you want to put on my seatbelt for me as well... Khushi..". He tilted his head towards the car, his hand casually touching her above the crook of her elbow.

She jumped away from the touch.. dhak dhak dhak.. Loud, clear, insistent in her ears. Hurrying to other side, she opening the back door.

"Khoosi bitiya humlog thik se baith gaye hai. tum damadji ke sath aage baith jao", Lata mausi spoke up.

Khushi gulped and did as instructed. Her seatbelt would not bulge. ASR waited one whole minute before he leaned over and tugged at it, securing it in place.

Khushi was ready to drown in embarrassment. When no one was in the car she was used to him doing that, but there were three other people in the car today. She chanced a glance at the rear view mirror to see if by some miracle missed they had missed what just had happened.

No such luck. All three woman were smiling widely at her. Khushi sunk down on her seat, wishing she could disappear. What did the rakhshas have in mind?

ASR had started the vehicle and they were on their way. Khushi fervently wishing the ride would be a short one. It was not going to be a short one.

The ladies at the back were talkative in excitement. Khushi almost feared Arnavji would ask them to shut up. But that did not happen.

A moment later she was imploring him silently to get taiji to keep quiet, because one topic had led to another and soon the ladies had started to discuss.. Honeymoon..

"madhumatiji aaj kal toh sab hi shimla jate hai.. In dono ko toh goa jana chahiye.. Honeymoon ke liye", taiji had just declared gleefully. The old woman considered herself very well versed with the present fashion.

Khushi went rigid, her heart jumping to her throat. She even contemplated jumping out of the running car. Atleast it would save her the embarrassment.

"nahi nahi nand kisore.. Arnav bitwa toh thora garam mijaz ke haiin na.. Unko aur humari sanaka devi ko toh kisi thandi jagah hi ghumne jana chahiye.. kyu hai na parmeswari?", buaji countered taiji's suggestion enthusiastically.

(no no .. arnav bitwa is a little hot headed.. he and parmeswari should go to a cooler place. isn't it)

In utter panic Khushi dared a glance at Arnavji. His eyes were still on the road as his lips moved,"buaji how about nanital"?

Khushi could not believe her ears. She turned towards him. It was unmistakable. He was grinning. She had to try hard to stop rubbing her eyes.

Right that minute the car screeched to a halt near the mandir road. ASR turned and smiled at buaji, "buaji, di had sent somethings for Khushi and Payal. If you all don't need Khushi, then I can take her back to your house and give her everything. main mohan ko bhej dunga to pick you all up".

"jeeyat raho babua".

Much to ASR's satisfaction and Khushi's consternation buaji readily agreed. As taiji was getting down from the car she remarked loudly, "babua bahut achchi gari chalate ho. Thank you. Agali baar bhi kahin jana raha toh tumhi ko bula bhenjenge. kyu thik hai na?".

(You drive the car extremely well. if we have to go elsewhere we will call on you next time as well. Is that okay?)

Khushi wanted to cover her eyes and duck under her dupatta. She made do with closing her eyes which snapped open hearing Arnavji smoothly respond,"My pleasure".


They had left the mandir and were on their way home. Khushi finally managed to stammer a few words.."Arnavji.. ye.. aap"?

"Well you said you needed a ride to the mandir. And I have a car", he explained in a matter of fact way.

Khushi simply gaped at him. Suddenly shy, now that they were alone in the car. She looked out of the window, avoiding looking at him.

He was quiet the whole way back. She wished he had spoken. She wished she had said something. As always, part of her did not want to leave the car when she reached home.

In silence she waited, not knowing what she was hoping would happen. Ruefully she observed he was completely unruffled by the silence... did he even remember what had happened yesterday.. mat soch Khushi.. She sternly reprimanded herself at her tell tale thoughts.

He lazily leaned forward and undid her seatbelt. Then got out himself, making his way towards the back.

Khushi slowly got down too. Anjali ji had sent a lot of packages. Some contained fruits, dry fruits, sweets and others looked like puja items and clothes. ASR dumped a whole load of stuff into her hands and carried the remaining himself.

Then when he had placed everything on the center table, and it was clear he was going to leave, khushi finally spoke up. Desperately not wanting him to leave, unable to say so.

"aapne humare liye.."

Halting midway, he turned back. And smiled. "Khushi do you want to say thank you to me"?

Why did his voice sound so very intimate. There were only the two of them alone in the house, then why did he have to whisper. Why could he not talk loudly, how Khushi was used to talking.

Wait.. alone.. only the two of them.. dhak dhak dhak.. uff devi maiyya.. why didn't he go back to yelling at her and getting angry.. this Arnavji was way too difficult to be around.. the acidity was too much to bear..

He was taking slow steps towards her. She moved backwards, almost tumbling over the chair. He grabbed her hand and yanked her close.

"Thank me properly... kiss me khushi", his voice had dropped to ragged murmur.

She could only stare at him. Then not sure why or how, she found herself doing exactly what he had asked her to do. His stubble grazed her lips as she placed a feather light kiss on his cheek. She was too confused and stunned by what she had dared to do, and also overwhelmed by how good it made her feel.

Butterflies fluttered in her stomach, as she took in his tender gaze. His eyes were serious and warm. She watched him gulp as if he was as dazed as her, wanting to get a hold of himself. Then in an intimate whisper he asked, "tum thik ho"?

What did the laad governor want her to say? was she ever going to be thik when he was looking at her this way. She felt flush and warm and shy. thik.. she took a deep breath.. surpassing everything she really did feel thik.

He could read the hint of a smile that brushed against her lips. "See you tomorrow Khushi", was all he said as he sauntered out of the open door.

hey devi maiyya! Khushi almost shouted in alarm. The door was left open. agar koi dekh leta toh?


Why did that rakshas make her do such things.. Flustered, her heart racing she went to close the door.


****

ASR had never felt better. His feet skidded on tufts of clouds as he recollected Khushi's kiss. Smiling and berating himself for walking away, when there was a whole lot more he wanted to do, he reached his parked car.

One kiss. That too hardly a kiss. A peck on the cheek. And he felt like he was on fire. Khushi Kumari Gupta.. Her inexperienced coy kiss would lead to many sleepless nights, ASR knew. She had absolutely no idea how much he..

Wanted her? No that was not it.. Needed her?

He was absolutely distracted, unable to get the car door open. He continued to fiddle with the handle, too lost in moments he wanted to continue to be lost inhamesha..

As chance would have it, it was right then that he overheard two people talking in the nearby garage.

"ha hum keh rahe hai na I saw the man who was staying as paying guest in Madhumatiji's house ", said one voice.

Another excited voice joined in," ka keh reh ho? That man who was engaged to Khushiji? Who knows what happened.. Why did he go away.. Why was the engagement broken. Tha toh achcha hi aadmi".

ASR's knuckles were straining on the car handle. All blood drained from them as his grip tightened. His jaw set he remained inert. A nerve throbbing dangerously near his temple on the right side.

"toh he was here in the morning?" .. The voices were no longer distinct. ASR did not care who had spoken.

He spun around and took two steps at a time in seething anger. He noticed Khushi fiddling with the door. An expectant look on her face. It angered him more.

He hauled her inside and slammed the door shut. She flinched sensing the sudden violence in him.

"Who has he? Why did you not tell me he was here, today?", he demanded.

She looked confused, unable to process the drastic change in a man so tender a moment ago. A man she had just .. kissed..

"aap kya keh reh hai.. humein nai pata.." She summoned anger as her defense.

He heard her voice and it broke through the storm inside him. He wanted to kick himself for losing control. It was not like Arnav Singh Raizada to jump to conclusions listening to wayward gossip. And he wasn't even sure why his blood was boiling at the thought of the man Khushi had been set to marry. And how was this even remotely her fault?

"Shit!".. The expletive exploded from his mouth.

He felt wretched as he saw a teardrop escape her eyes. Her lower lip trembled, as she determinedly bit it, trying to stop herself from breaking down in front of him. Clueless why he was in such a rage.

He didn't wait to think. His hand curled on her hair as his lips descended on hers. She readily flowed into him. Her hands winding around his neck. She could feel her sobbing stop, replaced by shock.

She felt heavenly against his lips. With excruciating control, he broke the kiss and murmured against her lips, "I'm sorry". She whimpered, her breath heaving.

He continued to kiss her. She tasted sweet.. must be all those jilebis.. He felt light and care free, a bubbling laughter rising within him.. She felt heavenly... Her soft lips moving in sync with him, just like when they had danced.

He sucked and nibbled, his eyes dancing at her shocked expression, till she moaned, and he was no longer sure what he was doing. He could sense her legs give away as she moved closer to him, unable to stand.

He willed himself to break the kiss. Both were in need of air.. He gulped in large mouthfuls as he remained with his eyes closed, his forehead touched hers.

Slowly he opened his eyes, wishing he could go back to kissing her. She looked ravishing. A rosy hue spread across her cheeks, lips that were slightly swollen, hair in complete disarray. She looked well and thoroughly kissed.

ASR was sure to never ever forget this sight. She was shy, unsure how to react, fidgeting to move away from him. But he made her arms stay around his neck, savouring her close.

Looking deep into her eyes, hoping she saw all that he could not put in words, but all that was forever there, his eyes glittering, he stated, "you are mine.. only mine..hamesha.. samajhi tum?"



******