Arhi TS: Untouched. Part I

                                 

                                 Arhi TS:                                  

                                                     UNTOUCHED

Note: This story is placed in the early 1980s, around the time when Indira Gandhi was ruling.

                               Part I

Her eyes were glistening with unshed tears, a painful lump in her throat. And yet no one paid any heed, actually noting really seemed out of place about it. And so Payal entertained the guests, while Madumati and Garima bustled around making sure everything was perfect on this big day. And she just sat there trying to hold back tears and still secretly waiting for someone to really... actually ask her the reason.

Her hair was tied in an intricate pattern, heavy gold and kundan ornaments adorned her. An elaborate tika that covered half her forehead; heavy earrings that might seem pretty to others but were to her just inconvenient; and a grand family heirloom necklace that seemed intent on breaking her delicate neck. Everything about her screamed ROYAL and that's exactly what the Gupta's had intended. The Gupta family of Lucknow traced their lineage from the Gupta Dynasty of the classical era. It was a distant relation, they admitted, but one existed nonetheless. And who could challenge their claim, for no one of the ancient ages was alive to bear witness and the widely prevalent practices of polygamy and courtesans and concubines just complicated the whole thing. And anyway, no one really bothered, neither the outsiders nor the family members, for it was convenient this way. Belief is what matters, neither lies nor truths.

And so underneath the lies and truths, beliefs and customs, the entire faade of Royalty and an elaborate bridal ensemble, laid buried a Khushi Kumari Gupta, all but sixteen. She felt suffocated; she wanted to shout, to scream, to hide, to run away but the society had given its verdict that Khushi Kumari Gupta was going to be sacrificed today on the altar of societal propriety, and this judge never reconsidered his judgments, for he was supreme to all courts. After all what was she, just another girl amongst millions of such girls and women who were expected to follow the rules. Oh they were very simple actually, like live for others, die for others; bear the burden of what they called honor and yet be labeled as the weaker sex; just mechanically follow the orders of your male counterparts; never question; never expect; just submit and of course never ever live.

Khushi was different, unlike many other of her friends she chose to live. She was beautiful, not in a conventional way though, her beauty was more than just symmetrical arrangement of attractive features, a glow seemed to surround her at all times, an aura of free-spiritedness. She loved chasing butterflies in the garden, she would catch them... only to set them free. She relished food but rarely cooked and even when she did, her expertise was limited to chai and jalebis, she never even bothered to learn much, "Amma hai na." she'd say and then flit away joining a group of hooligans who had terrorized the entire neighborhood and of course, she was their leader. Hide and seek was her favorite sport, for she was the best at it, she was so brilliant at hiding that her record of never ever being a seeker remained unblemished. And then one day... she was found.

Out of nowhere, she found herself in front of some unfamiliar people, all whose gazes were fixed on her and suddenly the dupatta that she considered a nuisance seemed as her sole protector, for her entire family that was seated in the same room did noting to stop all the staring and were in fact having that hopeful look in their eyes that said they wished she passed the trial. The short, stout lady who hadn't diverted her gaze from her form for a long while, asked her to bring to her the plate of rasmalai, that was in fact within her arms reach and as moved to get the plate to the lady, she could feel her gaze scan her form all the more thoroughly. And, yet that wasn't the worst part. She could also feel his eyes on her, his gaze full of something she couldn't completely understand and yet it scared her. But more than that she felt disgusted... disgusted with herself as his gaze halted for the longest while on her breasts and butts and suddenly the dupatta wasn't enough. And before she knew it, she was engaged to the man she had just seen... yes only seen, because meeting would imply talking a little to the very least.

Her eyes were wild with fear but there was some hope in them as well as she looked at the faces of her loved ones, begging them to understand her, to save her or to the very least explain what was happening. And then she was shocked out of her trance as his hand grabbed hers, putting a rather humongous ring on her delicate finger and then giving her hand a-not-so-gentlemanly-squeeze. Khushi had looked at the stranger in front of her, unmasked fear dancing in those innocent eyes but the next moment she had looked away... looked away in disgust and fear as he had licked his lips, giving her a sly smile and his dark eyes sending some message... something that she didn't quite understand and yet it terrified her, probably her female instincts had sensed danger. His knuckle had brushed against her thigh as he got up and she felt sick in her stomach, pushing back the bile that rose in her throat she had taken blessings from the elders, trying hard to stretch her lips in what she hoped was a convincing impression of a smile... one that didn't reach her eyes... but then, would be brides of sixteen were supposed to smile that way, weren't they? The stout woman stood complaining to Garima that they were not very satisfied with the girl for she didn't have full grown breasts and that was a priority for their family required an heir at the earliest. Khushi was standing alone in a corner, behind the door and yet she had pulled the dupatta a little more, listening to the conversation and yet absorbing nothing.

The following few weeks had crossed in a whirl-wind with Khushi trying to make sense of things that made no sense. She had tried asking her Amma, Babuji, Bhai and everyone else that why were they getting her married off so soon, didn't they love her any more and they had all said that it was because they loved her so much that they wanted the best for her... a best that everyone but Khushi wanted for herself. 'Wasn't it supposed to be her life?' her mind had screamed at her but she had turned a deaf ear to that voice for good women weren't supposed to think... much less express it.

And so here she was, a month later, dressed up beautifully in an extravagant attire, all prepared to be sacrificed on an equally extravagant altar.

"The barat is here! The groom has arrived!" Preeto announced to everyone and they had all flitted out of the room to get a glimpse of the groom and the barat. Khushi had seen many brides, shy and nervous and yet excited to get a glimpse of their soon to be lords... why didn't she feel that way. She knew the answer.

The sudden loneliness brought back memories that she desperately wanted to forget... like... like a bad dream that one tries to shake off as soon as they open their eyes, only... she knew she would be living that nightmare every single moment of her life... that her eyes were never closed... that there won't be a single second of respite from that nauseating feeling that engulfed her whenever his eyes or his hands touched her... crawled on her... not a moment of respite until she finally closed her eyes.

It had been just yesterday, her entire family had gone off to the local temple where they were supposed to meet the groom's family for some ritual. Her haldi already done, she had to stay back, for a bride is not supposed to leave the threshold of her house after haldi, until her bidai. She was glad in fact for that little alone time, for ever since the marriage had been fixed someone or the other was always hovering around her trying to teach her cooking, sewing, knitting, chicken-kari work or even some wifely-tricks and other such good bahu things. So she let out a relieved sigh on finding her house to herself for once. She prepared herself a plate of hot crispy jalebis, she was not supposed to have anything salty until after the wedding and so Khushi had free license to have as much sweet as she could, and well her 'could' was limitless and she was not letting go of the opportunity.

She was lost in her thoughts, unconsciously munching on the jalebis when someone knocked the door breaking her trance. She had opened the door to find her fiance and soon to be husband. A shiver ran down her spine and her hands automatically pulled her dupatta more fully across her chest, where his eyes were fixed at the moment. He had stepped inside and her feet took her back on their own volition. When she had returned a while later with a bottle of ganga jal, for he had said that Amma had sent him to get the purifying water, she found him standing against the bolted door of the inner living room, a sly smile across his lips and pure lust in his dark inhuman eyes. She tried to run on an impulse, when she felt him restraining her as he caught her along her waist. He had pushed her on the couch, the ganga jal splayed over the floor as her head hit the wooden corners of the antique sofa, her vision blurring. And yet she had cried and thrashed violently like a lamb in a slaughter-house, earning a hard slap across her face and she had stilled, as fear like never before consumed her. But no, you don't give up so easily when your life depends on it and so Khushi fought, she fought with all her might... with anything and everything... with her teeth and claws. She could feel his restless hands crawling across her slim figure as he tried pulling off her dupatta and she clutched at it with all her might, calling her Guardian Angel her Devi Maiya for help. He had savagely pulled her hair and she had let out an almost animalistic shriek as she felt unbearable pain. He was trying to tear off her kurti when Payal had dashed inside the room tearing the animal off her. He had let out a frustrated growl and had left saying something like who would save her the coming night, while she had just hugged her Bhabhi, crying her heart out.

Khushi had cried for a long time, hiding her face in Payal's lap attempting to muffle those violent shrieks that threatened to explode through her so very often... that threatened to disrupt the delusion of harmony that the society wrapped itself in, unmasking the savagery that was its reality... naked reality of this civilized world. When she had calmed a bit, on the exteriors at least, Payal had finally divulged the reality of her marriage which was noting more than a business transaction. The implementation of the new land division law had stripped the Gupta's off most of their zamindari estate and this matrimonial alliance was but a desperate attempt  to maintain the façade of 'almost royalty' that they had inherited... how did it matter if a breathing living girl was to sacrificed on the altar of this façade .. after all it was for the greater cause. That night for the first time Khushi, who had been hitherto kept ignorant about the physical aspect of life and was taught to scorn on even the word love and feel ashamed about her body, was suddenly exposed to the raw physicality of the relationship shared between a husband and his wife. The veil had finally lifted but the shackles of shame had bound her all the more strongly, reeling the life out of her, almost. She had felt the clasp of fear and disgust getting excruciatingly painful by the minute as the image of his slithery hands on her body, moving, touching, groping filled her mind. She had asked Payal to leave her alone, for it was too much to absorb in a single day.  But fatigue had soon claimed her and she had fallen into a dreamless sleep, after days of sleepless nights, preparing herself for the many more nightmarish nights that were soon to follow.

She saw someone nudge her, lifting her up, making her stand, arranging the heavy bridal attire around her, something about the auspicious hour, muhrat or she didn't know... She saw women almost dragging her towards the wedding altar... she saw him give her a sickening smile as she was seated next to him... she saw all this as if from a distance... she felt noting... Her Devi Maiya had finally come to help her devotee... Khushi Kumari Gupta... soon to be Khushi Manohar Jha was granted the boon of numbness.

PS: Hope you guys liked this new story. Please do let me know what you thought of it.

Love 

Srija :)

Arhi FF, 'Chamkili' ch-7 The Mess We Make

Ok guys now before I go ahead with the update, let me warn you that this has not been proof-read, hence if u spot any grammatical error or any spelling mistake kindly let me know. And there r some important notes at the end of the update, please read those. 

Now this update is dedicated to mem1 and Nidsubh007 and Lara for being the sweethearts that they are J

                                         Chamkili

                                  Part-7

                         The Mess We Make

Arnav Singh Raizada was smiling. And no there was no Barney Stinson on the screen going off about the 'bro code' and neither was his crazy wife's besan covered face the reason this time. In fact he was all alone, sitting behind the steering wheel, driving his SUV and just... just like that... smiling. Shocking as it may sound... or maybe even goofy, but an adorably smug smile played on his lips.

'So Mrs. Raizada liked playing games, didn't she? Oh, how he would love to beat her at her own game. What did she say, hmm, the celebration should not be in their bedroom and should involve actual food... and so it shall.' Arnav smirked as his hands toyed with the bottle of chocolate syrup, his mind simultaneously toying with the images of when he would soon put it to good use. He was proud of his plan well you do not become Arnav Singh Raizada, if you lack the talent and courage of taking advantage of others mistakes, and with regards to his temptress of a wife, dammit he had all the haq.

As the traffic-light signalled a stop and he did, he looked outside and directly at a small food place. Well a petulant Khushi was the last thing he wanted tonight, especially considering his plans, and a hungry Khushi was a grumpy kid version and that wouldn't do. He wanted her in all her womanly glory tonight. And so making one of his more rare choices, that of listening to his good sense, he parked the car and got some food packed for his lovely wife, all her favorites. And to top it all, he bought some jalebi from a nearby sweet-shop. 'She'll be happy' and then of course it's only fair that she return my favor...' and with this pleasurable thought he finally parked his car outside KaLa at exactly 8 p.m. He called Khushi but she didn't pick up, he tried again and well, the same response and so he decided to just go inside and check for himself whatever the matter was. He spotted Lavanya near the entrance itself, she was with some of her employs.

"Hey! Lavanya Have you seen'"but Lavanya cut him off,

"Hey! ASR, what are you doing here. Guys I am sure you know Mr. Arnav Singh Raizada." she introduced him to her employs who all greeted him earning a tight lipped, smile?... or something of the sort in return

"Lavanya, I was asking about K..." but he was once again cut-off midway

"Ok people so I guess that's all for now, I'll see you guys tomorrow." she smiled at her employs dismissing them and she looked at her former boss, well he was livid almost and things didn't look too bright for her.

"ASR, wo actually..." and even before she could finish he was already moving towards the inner cabins but she had to stop him and so she pulled his arms,

"ASR please, could you come outside I need to talk to you. There is no point creating a scene here." he glared at her but then agreed and moved towards the parking instead.

"ASR I am sorry but I had to stop you there. I think Chamkili probably forgot to mention it to you or maybe she would have told you tonight. But she doesn't want anyone over here to know that you are her husband." she looked at him a little timidly, unsure of his reaction.

"Excuse me?" Arnav still wasn't sure if he heard it correctly. 'Khushi didn't want people to find out about their relationship? Was she out of her mind?' Arnav was already at the edge now and one small push was all he needed to raise all the fury of hell.

"And yes, I guess she forgot to inform you, but she left a little early today. I think she must have reached home by now." and that just did it. Arnav was livid now, ready to burst. And hence he hurriedly made his way towards car, knowing if he waited even a second more he would burst at anyone and everyone around but no he wanted to save his fury for its rightful deserver. And one look at him and she knew that calling him back right now would be inviting death and she didn't want to die so young and that too a spinster. So she just made her way back to the office, silently praying to Khushi's Devi Maiya to protect her devotee, for she needed it badly.

Soon he embarked upon another of his rash drives that fanned his fury all the more. His eyes fell on that innocent bottle of chocolate syrup and the next moment it was thrown out of the speeding SUV. And such was the force of his throw that no one would ever be able to find even a single shred of that glass piece.

"KHUSHI KUMARI GUPTA, HOW BLOODY DARE YOU!" he hissed in a low tone as he finally stopped the car in front of shantivan.

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

Sheetal was standing in front of a mirror. Critically examining her image from all the various angles and' well, she couldn't see any major flaws there. In fact she was considered beautiful by people of both the sexes and she knew that she actually was. She then slumped on her bed as she wondered, 'But then why didn't he love me?' The thought had been gnawing at her for the past many days, well actually since the time she had had that chance encounter with him and his wife in the market place.

She still vividly remembered the day she had asked him out, oh yes, she was the one who had taken the lead in their relationship. After crushing on him for a long time and then being his friend for a while, she had finally mustered enough courage to set the wheels in motion and see where it goes. She proposed him. He had recently broken off with Cindy and that was their final year at Harvard and hence she just took the leap of faith, but then was pleasantly surprised when he had agreed to give it a go. Though he had made it very clear that he did not believe in marriage or even love for that matter and hence wouldn't commit to anything life-long or even long-term, but she had gone ahead with it anyway. Of course she had, for she didn't want to regret not taking this chance. And secretly in her heart of hearts she had harbored a little hope that maybe one fine day he'll just wake up and realize that he was in love and that day she wanted to be beside him... with him.  'How very stupid of me to expect love from someone who had no love... who had no heart!' she sighed. It would have been so much easier, had it actually been the case... had he actually been heartless. But she knew better, 'he did have a heart a beautiful heart... a heart full of endless love... it's just that his heart had always belonged to someone else.' She felt a lump growing in her throat. She glanced at Aarav sitting at the table, working meticulously on his homework. Aarav was enough for her, he had always been all she had ever wanted and all she would ever want. 'But then why this abyss of emptiness in me grows a little every day?' She decided to take a walk to distract herself from those turbulent thoughts. But as she entered the living-room she could hear some mumbling and though it was quite incoherent, still one could easily make out that the speaker was royally pissed. And as she looked at the love of his life, his wife, she once again wondered, 'where did I go wrong?'

Khushi was making jalebis and munching on the ready ones while talking to some invisible or maybe even non-existent entity. 'What does she have that I don't? What does he see in her? Yes she was beautiful and young and fresh but so am I... or at least was... six years ago, but that hadn't been enough for him then... had it?' her gaze zeroed on Khushi, the lady of the house... but soon she faded and some forgone but yet unforgotten images floated in front of her... it was as if the past had come alive.

"Happy birthday Sheetal!" Shaina, her room-mate wished her as soon as she woke-up, but then too lazy to get off the bed she had just stretched her arms calling Sheetal to her and she did go. They hugged and Shaina once again gave Sheetal her best wishes for the day.

A little while later, as she was standing in front of the mirror, giving some last touches to her make-up when she heard Shaina whistle as she stepped back in the room,

"Woho! Aren't you looking pretty today! All ready to blow Mr. Dreamy Eyes' super shatir dimag off, hmm?" Sheetal didn't say anything but she felt happy being appreciated for her looks. In fact she always made an extra effort to look good whenever she was with him. She finished giving a final coat to her gloss and then moved to where her hand-bags were piled on a shelf.

"Well, I am sure he must have planned something awesome for his girl-friend. And why not, he got perfect score for planning that super tough and entirely useless annual economic structure thing or whatever. Planning a birthday shouldn't be much for him, right?" she said rolling her eyes, one thing that she didn't like about her friend's boyfriend was the air of superiority that he seemed to have at all times. 'What a douche!' she cursed under her breath.

"Okay, now if you are done cursing my boy friend can we leave for college, he'll be picking me up from there." Sheetal all but dragged her friend as she juggled with her scarf and keys and hand-bag.

Sheetal had decided to skip the lecture, for it was Mr. Thomas's lecture and once in, it was impossible to leave until it was over and well making Arnav wait wasn't an option either. It was a choice between the Devil and the deep blue sea, and so to remain safe she decided to just hang around in the canteen. Though she wondered why was she actually waiting for him, not even once had he mentioned anything about her birthday plans since she had told him about it. 'Would he even remember and even if he did would he bother?' she didn't know.

Half the day was over and he hadn't even called her yet, she had started to sulk a little now.

"Sheetal I am sure, he must have gotten struck in the traffic, its really bad on Fridays." Shaina tried cheering her friend a little, "Why don't you call him?" and in a flash Sheetal was dialing Arnav's number, she thanked her stars when he picked up on the second ring itself.

"Yes Sheetal, anything important? I was busy." his voice cold, his tone clipped.

"Wo Arnav... actually... actually about the plan... I am waiting in the college." her heart sank a little.

"What plan? Sheetal what kind of childish behavior is this? You know we have our final project submissions next week and I am busy with it. What the hell has gotten into you?" he seemed really irked now, and she was on the verge of tears, so she moved to a secluded corner.

"Arnav... wo actually it's my birthday today and..." she hadn't even finished it when she heard his irritated voice,

"So?" both were silent for a while, which he broke finally.

"Look Sheetal if there is nothing else then I need to get back to my work, I'll see you later." and before she could reply the line went dead.

Sheetal wiped her slightly moist eyes and made her way towards Shaina.

"He wouldn't be able to make it, his Di is visiting and she is not well. But he said he was very sorry and that he'll make up for it soon. He is such a sweet-heart Shaina." Sheetal lied smoothly, she was getting better at it since her relationship with Arnav. Only the thing was, Shaina, her room-mate and also her childhood friend knew her a little too well. 'Ya right! Mr. Arrogant Singh Raizada was sorry!' But then Shaina would never say anything about it.

"Okay then birthday girl, what about my treat haan!"

She came out of her trance as she heard a loud bang from the kitchen, and then she saw Khushi picking up a ladle. Sheetal suddenly realized that she had walked upto the kitchen door in her trance.

"What do I do now? Now I can't lie to him and telling him the truth would be like awaking the Rakshasha in him." Khushi rambled, unaware of the audience she had now, who was trying hard to make sense of her ramblings but failing miserably. Her eyes widened as she checked the wall clock,

"Hey Devi Maiya! How could I forget? Why are you bent on testing me everyday, can't you just let me be for one day... just one day is it too much to ask. He said he would come to pick me up at 8 and he seemed so happy about the entire celebration thing, how could I forget about it." Khushi berated herself.

'Oh so that's the reason why Arnav postponed the meeting with the Russian delegates. So now apparently he could leave a multi-million dollar project hanging to just pick his wife up... while then even on my birthday..." she felt chocked again. But apart from tears something else also raised its head inside her... the attractive monster with those enchanting and all engulfing green-eyes.

Khushi made her way to her room, still lost in herself oblivious to Sheetal's presence, muttering something like,

"Khushi Kumari Gupta Singh Raizada, he'll kill you. He won't even bother to roast you, he'll just eat you raw... hell he won't even bother to kill you, he'll just eat you alive. Hey Devi Maiya Raksha karna."

A minute later Sheetal heard Arnav's SUV stop and then saw a fuming Arnav enter and head straight to his room. A dark, sly smile made its way on her face.

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

Khushi was searching for a nice hiding place. She had a brilliant plan, she would hide until Arnav was asleep and the next morning she would make him some pan-cakes and maybe even wear that saree he had gotten for her, that would surely do the trick. So she hid inside the cupboard, the plate of jalebis still in her hand. 'Who said Khushi Kumari Gupta Singh Raizada didn't have brains?' She was happy with her plan, but there was one slight detail that Mrs. Shatir Dimag had missed, that... her Laad Governor could hear her heartbeats.

He entered the room enraged. She was no where to be seen... but he knew better. He walked upto the pool area, but she wasn't even there, he closed his eyes trying to contain his frustration... he needed to find her first. And then almost magically, as if guided by his own heartbeats he stood right in front of their cupboard. He opened the door with a jerk and hissed

"HOW DARE YOU KHUSHI! How dare you not tell me? How dare you... I went to your office and..."

'Hey Devi Maiya! HE KNOWS!' she was almost trembling with fear now, she needed to do some emergency control NOW. And so without even letting him finish, she said,

"Arnavji-I-had-no-idea-Samayji-was-there'" he froze as all he heard was SHYAMJI. 'Was that b****** following Khushi again? But how did that scoundrel get out?'

"Khushi, did he harm you? Are you okay? I'll set that useless commissioner straight, despite my orders that he shouldn't be released, that bloody son of a..." Khushi's head was spinning now, 'Arnavji knew him and Samayji was in jail?' Arnav was already in the middle of dialling the commissioner's number when Khushi said.

"Arnavji how do you know Samayji and why was he in jail... and... and how did you know about it? Hey Devi Maiya, did you..." and the rest of her words remained trapped somewhere inside her as a thought struck her, 'Hey Devi Maiya, did he do this because of me?' and her mind went in an overdrive picturing images of Samay chained in a dungeon, and Arnav laughing maniacally with a whip in his hand and then he unleashed the whip and...

"NAHI!" Khushi screamed.

"Khushi are you alright. And what are you talking about, they arrested him in front of all of us, you were there. In fact that Shy..." and then he turned towards her, the lines on his forehead gathered in a frown,

"Khushi who the hell is this Samayji?"

"But you just said that..." he didn't let her finish,

"Khushi don't test my patience, Just answer me DAMMIT!" he snarled towards the end. He was worried sick about another maniac behind his sweet little wife.

"Wo Arnavji actually... actually he was my senior at school and..." she said in a low voice.

"Why didn't you tell me? Are you okay?" he hugged her to himself, sliding his fingers soothingly on her back.

"Arnavji, I am sorry. I really didn't know about it' I had forgotten him completely and I was so shocked when I saw him today. I should have told you before that I had a crush on him. But it totally skipped my..."

"What!" he moved her out of his embrace to look at her face as he roared. And Khushi was dead scared now. She held his hands that were clutching her shoulders and closed her eyes, preparing herself for ASR's wrath.

"Arnavji believe me, it was just a small crush... I was so young... I was just in fourth grade and... and all my friends said he liked me and... and he was the head-boy and even Preeto said he was good and I was mad... hey Devi Maiya why did I do that! I am sorry Arnavji but... but I didn't know he would be there at KaLa, had I had any inkling of that I wouldn't have taken that job. Arnavji please..." and she was on the verge of tears when she heard that sound she loved the most in the entire world... the sound of his carefree... happy laugh. But as always it left her confused.

"Khushi, Oh you are such a kid." and saying that he pulled her in a tight possessive embrace.

"But Arnavji you were so angry then how... why..." she didn't know how to say what she wanted to say.

"Khushi I was angry because I thought you were talking about Shyam and I was worried." he paused for a bit before continuing further,

"So you had a crush when you were what?... barely ten? Not bad Mrs. Raizada." he teased her and earned a smack on his chest in return.

"Aww! Khushi you are the one who had a crush and still you are beating me... now that's not fair, is it?" he said keeping his tone deliberately sombre.

"Arnavji I am so sorry. I know I shouldn't have done that... I feel so bad' it's like I cheated..." and sobs raked her body.

"Khushi I was joking. Please don't cry baby. I am so sorry. I was just kidding." he tried soothing her with gentle strokes of his hands on her back and then lifting her in his arms he took her to their bed, laying her on it. He faced her as he supported himself on his elbow, his fingers gently massaging her hair.

"Khushi its okay, really. You didn't even know I existed back then and such things happen. And you just had an innocent crush on him... and I am sure you do realize you ended up with much better right?" and he felt a little relieved as she smiled a little.

"Okay so you had a crush on one guy in your school but I am still leading here... for I had... wait let me count my girlfriends once again, Cindy, Lata, Samantha... Aww! Khushi you seriously need to stop doing this" he made a face as his wife once again smacked him but then kissed her forehead as she gave him a warm smile.

"Khushi you are mine and I am yours, we love each other and there is no doubt about it and don't you ever doubt my love and trust for you okay." she smiled and pulled him in her embrace

"Arnavji" her fingers massaged his scalp.

"Hmm?" his eyes were closed as he enjoyed the magic that her hands weaved.

"I love you dammit!" and with that she captured his lips with hers... taking him by surprise. It was the first time that she had taken an initiative...

The last coherent thought he had before he dissolved himself in her was,

'Hell I shouldn't have thrown away that chocolate syrup.'

But then as Khushi's fingers fumbled with the buttons of his shirt, it didn't really matter any more...

The night was still young and so were the lovers lost in each others arms... their bodies burning in a passion that needed no other fuel but love to burn through their bodies and souls...

Love

Srija

Author's Note: 

Guys first of all thanks a lot for reading this story, it really means a lot to me and a special thanks to all those lovely people who take time to put their thoughts in comments and me me feel awesome by pressing the like tab.

Now coming to the important stuff, I know the story has become a little complicated now, but I had warned you beforehand that this wouldn't be one of those classic, 'Sheetal is a bitch' story. I am not too sure about where this story is going but I would like to think that you weren't too disappointed with the update 

And I am thinking of editing my buddy list coz I have been sending PMs to many people who don't even read these stories so if you want to continue being on my buddy list please confirm your presence on my story threads. Also I wouldn't be receiving buddy request from random people from now on, if you want to receive PMs please make your presence known here.

And, finally guys my finals begin on the 10th of May, hence I am not very sure as to when I'll be able to update any of my stories next, don't expect much before the 20th at least but you might be surprised for an idea of a three shot is brewing in my head and I might just write it. Guys please wish me luck, need it badly

Tangent Worlds. Ch-5, 'Destined Destinations'

                                TANGENT WORLDS

                        Part: 5

                          Destined Destinations

As they entered the Lucknow station, the announcement was being made,

“Yatri kripya dhyan den, Katihaar se Delhi tak jaane wali 230468 Amrapali Express kuch hi samay mein platform sankhya 3 pe aane wali hai. Dhanyawaad.”

“Passengers attention please, train no. 230468, Amrapali Express, from Katihaar with destination to Delhi will be arriving shortly on platform no.3. Thankyou.”

While Khushi was trying to catch her breath, Sumit once again grabbed her hand and together they ran towards the over-bridge, his one hand clutching hers while with the other one he dragged a trolley-bag. And the moment they disappeared from the view, merging with a throng of dissimilar yet similar people, Madhumati entered the station. Halting at the entry she scanned the crowd adjusting her glasses while waiting for her breathing to normalize a bit, but then not finding anything or rather anyone that interested her she made her way towards the enquiry.

“Hai re Nand Kisor! Aye Babua make way for me. How shameless has this new generation become, they have lost all their decency and respect for elders. Aree hato, rasta do Nand Kisor.” and as she reached the counter, pushing people standing in the line she finally asked,

“Aye Nand Kisor, what is the position of the train to Delhi?”

“Kaki, there are two of them now, which one are you asking about?”

“Aye Nand Kisor, tell me about both and make it fast.”

“Ok, Lucknow-Delhi Mail would be departing shortly from platform no.5 and Amrapali Exp. would arrive any moment now on platform 3.”

“Jeete raho Babua!” and with that she made her way towards the over-bridge. 

Madhumati decided to check the Lucknow-Delhi Mail first, for it could leave any moment and then she could go check the other one, while in her heart she prayed her beloved God that she got lucky the first time itself. And it seemed that he was in a good mood, for as she was crossing through the over-bridge, she caught sight of something yellow, and not the mellow, sophisticated version of it but the bright, chamkili shade. ‘Now only Sankadevi would have guts to wear that.’ And thus forgetting about her earlier plan she took sure steps towards where she had seen the vision in yellow. As Khushi turned around, her eyes widened first in shock and then as the image of Buaji standing right in front of her sunk in there was pure terror in those huge, beautiful eyes. And, oh what a vision it was. The first thing that came to her mind was to run away and hide somewhere. And well as was true of her nature she acted on impulse but it seemed like Buaji knew her niece a little too well and so anticipating her move, she gripped her delicate wrist pulling her back as turned to make a run for it, and a bit too roughly at that making her hiss in pain.

“Aaaau Buaji that hurt!” Khushi whined but Madhumati still didn’t let go of her hand. Just then Sumit returned back to the spot carrying two bottles of mineral water, a packet of achari masti lays and a box of sweets in his hands, completely unaware of the older woman’s presence.

“Khushi, they were out of jaleb… Aaaa!” and he too screamed as Buaji’s free hand pulled his ear.

“Buaji what are… Aaaau” and he screamed again as her hand left his ear only to slap the back of his head.

“You idiots, what were you thinking? You were supposed to get married today, in fact you still are. Just come back with me.” her stern face deemed no opposition and so none came, hence she continued,

“Hey Nand Kisor, what would have happened had someone else found about this stupid letter of yours, there are so many guests in the house and all they need is something to gossip about. What am I going to do with you Sankadevi.” and saying that she turned around and tried pulling Khushi along with her but she felt resistance, not the overtly physical one for Khushi knew she stood no chance there, but a more subtle kind of resistance. Though subtle, it was no less sure or strong, and Madhumati could feel it. She turned around facing her dearest niece once again, witnessing her moist eyes and some tear drops threatened her eyes as well.

“Titaliya?” she looked at Khushi questioningly.

“I cannot do it Buaji. I just can’t.” she looked down, desperately trying to withhold the tears that threatened to spill any moment now.

“Bitiya, you do know what this will do to your life. Your name, your position in our society will be maligned forever. And what about our family’s name, your father’s honor?” and saying that she lifted her face, and looking directly into her glistening eyes, she further said,

“Titaliya, it will destroy your chance at having a normal, happy life forever. Are you really ready to give all this up.” she said gently cupping her Titaliya’s cheeks gently.

“There is no family without Jiji, Buaji.” her voice was strong, her tone certain. She continued,

“And about society, well they weren’t there to help her when she needed them, so why should I care now.” both her eyes and voice flared with anger.

“And what about you Titaliya, what about your life, your happiness?” This in fact Madhumati was most worried about.

“Buaji, I wouldn’t be able to look myself in the mirror again, I’ll lose all my self-esteem… If I don’t go now, I’ll be killing my conscience and how will I even take Devi Maiya’s name ever again. I wouldn’t be happy if I lose all that’s me Buaji and seeing me die everyday will kill all those whom I love and who love me. I am selfish Buaji, I have to save Jiji for myself as well, for I won’t be able to live with myself if I don’t. I’ll die if I don’t.” her voice broke towards the end, but then her Buaji embraced her imparting all her strength to Khushi.

“You have made your choice Bitiya and let me warn you that it’s not an easy one…” Khushi looked at her Buaji with wide gloomy eyes to which the older woman smiled, and covered her with a red shawl with golden border.

“But it is the right one Titaliya.” and Khushi smiled, sure at last that her family was not lost to her.

“Buaji, the wedding? Babuji? Amma?” Khushi almost chocked, unable to form any coherent sentence.

“Bitiya all choices have their own consequences, good and bad and we have to accept both. And you don’t worry Sumit and I will manage it over here and I hope you weren’t planning on accompanying her to Delhi, because then we might as well have had the wedding…” Buaji trailed off and the until then silent Sumit spoke, trying to save Khushi the embarrassment,

“Arre Buaji, how can your Nand Kisor ever leave you, hmm? In fact truth being told I agreed to marry this Jhalli just because of you, you know.” and he smiled one of his super cheesy smiles, he always kept reserved for Buaji, while she slapped him across his arm gently, according to her at least. just then the train finally entered the platform and they started to hurry.

“Sanka Devi, where are you going to stay, have you thought of all that or did you just get up and leave in your sanak.” she asked while they moved towards S7.

“Buaji, I got enrolled in this All India Literature Seminar and they have residing facilities within the campus, so you don’t have to worry.” but as she saw her Bua giving her unsure glances which were soon turning into angry glares, she soon improvised,

“Oh Sumit told me about it, he planned everything.” Buaji visibly relaxed at it. By then they had already reached Khushi’s seat and while Sumit was settling her luggage, Buaji took out some hefty cash and looking around carefully stuffed it in Khushi’s bag. Well knowing that her Bua had no direct source of income except for her Fufaji’s pension money, which she would miserly spend and diligently save, Khushi was obviously not very happy taking money from her so she tried protesting, not just ceremoniously but actually.

“Buaji, I have money. I have saved so much already and besides Sumit lent me the amount required for enrolment and other official stuff, so I really don’t need it.”

“Sanka Devi, musibat kabhi bata kar nai aati hai, samji, so just quit arguing and take it and if you don’t want to spend it, just take it for safe-keeping. You’ll be all alone there Titaliya, you have no idea how worried sick we’ll all be here, just keep it for my peace of mind. And oh that reminds me, here is my phone and yes let me take out the sim-card from it, that won’t be very safe, but get a new number as soon as you get there and call me… but no that could be dangerous, always call Sumit bitwa and that too from some public number, ok?...” she was so lost in her tirade that she missed the train whistle signaling its departure.

“Buaji, we should get down, the train would be leaving any moment now.” and with that he grasped her hand and led her to the exit, with Khushi following them in the tail and as they were about to get down Khushi couldn’t control herself and engulfed or rather tried to engulf her Buaji’s huge frame in a fierce embrace.

“Arre Titaliya, it’s not like you are leaving forever. Your Jiji awaits you Bitiya and we shall wait for the two of you. Nand Kisor and Devi Maiya are always with you, don’t worry.” she patted her back and gently pried her hands away and then looking in her glistening eyes with her own misty ones she said,

“I never thought I would say this, but your buaji will miss your sanak Sankadevi.” and the train finally moved slightly jerking the two women and Sumit came to their aid, helping the older one down and smiling at the younger one.

“Take care Khushi.”

“Hai re Nand Kisor! How could I forget, Garima gave this to me to give it to Khushi. Aye Khushi!” and she tried running towards the gate but Khushi was no longer there, in a flash Sumit grabbed the little pouch from her hand and made a dash towards the window of Khushi’s seat.

“Khushi, your Amma gave this to you.” he said passing the pouch to her through the window, still jogging to match the train’s momentum.

“Amma?” she sounded confused. But right then Sumit shoved it in her hand. Khushi looked up a little surprised as he held on to her hand, it seemed like he wanted to say something… But he didn’t… and he let go of her hand, standing still looking at her as she sped off with the speeding train. She squeezed her eyes shut trying to shut off the image of him, waiting? She didn’t know. But the truth was she did. She knew that he would have waited for her, would probably still wait for her… like he wanted to wait for her… and yet she couldn’t bring herself to comfort him with just some words… that… that ‘she would come back so hold on, wait for her.’ and she knew he would have been ecstatic, even if he’d have to wait his entire life. And even though she knew she would come back, she didn’t really know if she would ever return back to him. For while their old bond lay in a disarray and at least she couldn’t envision a new one, the one that he wanted.

“Hmm!” a sigh escaped her lips. ‘He really loves me, doesn’t he? But why can’t I find it in myself to love him back.’ Khushi thought to herself as the image of a waiting Sumit flashed back in her mind and she clutched the little pouch in her fist to her heart… as Amrapali Expresses headed towards its destination, Delhi… and took her to her destined destination…
**************************

“Arnav!” Nani yelled yet again as her grandson headed for the door and without giving her a backward glance made his way towards his SUV. On his way out he saw Aakash’s car entering the mansion premises, and he glimpsed a wasted Aakash on the back seat while the driver, Mohan, pulled in the car.

‘What went wrong?’ Arnav wondered and it wasn’t his fault if he couldn’t figure it out for about a year ago things were fine, Aakash was exactly what a 24 year old, MBA student should be like, normal and most importantly happy, well sort of at least. So what changed? he had no answer to that for he was not the most sensitive of men but even when he had tried asking Aakash what the problem was, his younger brother had just brushed him off telling him that’s exactly how rich, young men live. And well didn’t Arnav himself live such a life, although his imbalance was sort of balanced and subtle and not as glaring as Akash’s. The emptiness and pain and vulnerability did exist in his life but he had long since mastered the part of a cold and calculative business tycoon, hiding Arnav behind that immaculately played persona of Arnav Singh Raizada. But Aaksh’s wounds lay uncovered, his vulnerability too obvious and living in the world they did, it could actually destroy him.

Not knowing things related to those close to him frustrated Arnav to no limit and seeing the emptiness in their eyes and yet being unable to do anything about it tortured something inside him, it hurt… his heart? Well he couldn’t be too sure. What had he not done to safeguard his siblings against those nightmares that haunted him every night, to protect them from those tormenting memories which he relived every single day of his life? But it seemed like life finally caught up with them, well with Aakash at least. And that is what made his resolution to protect his sister from all that was dark and ugly and… well real, all the more fierce and concrete. And that could only happen, if she was under his wing, always and hence his search for the perfect husband for her and the perfect ghar-jamai for the Raizadas. Shayam Manohar Jha was actually a good option as he was mature, self-dependent, seemed family oriented and had no objection about any of his clauses. And also that Anjali liked him worked in this guy’s favor. So far he seemed like the perfect match for his barely twenty sister. Although, the background check he had ordered would take some time and so would his final decision. And his contemplation was hindered as his phone rang just that moment.

“Yes Aman.” The lines on his forehead collected in a frown as he heard what his PA had to say.

“I don’t care Aman I told you last week it self that I won’t be available today, you should have taken care while fixing this meeting with Kapoors and Sons co.”

he again listened and literally shouted at the end of it,

“Are you implying that I am lying or that I am careless… answer me dammit.” he then visibly calmed a bit as his PA probably apologized.

“See the meeting is design centric, right? So just consult Meghna, she’ll be able to handle that. And I’ll be there in the evening for the meeting with the Brazilian delegates. Call me if there is some problem. Ok.” and with that he disconnected the call.

The red light signaled him to stop and he did. The traffic was getting worse by the moment and that wasn’t really helping his temperament. He suddenly remembered that Aman was indeed right about him not mentioning about his absence today, but then just because he knew he was wrong, didn’t mean he would accept it. Who was the boss after all? And being the boss he needed to maintain a certain image. He wondered what would happen to his image if his employs knew that a man who traveled by exclusive private jets was right now heading towards Nizamuddin Terminal to receive someone. And Arnav couldn’t help as a smug smile appeared on his face.
**********************************

Entering the station he headed straight towards the enquiry,

“What is the position of Amrapali Express?” his tone uselessly formidable, habit perhaps.

“It is expected to arrive in about an hour.” the man behind the counter seemed least bothered about the fact that a muti-millionare stood in front of his counter and so did the multitude of people behind him who were pushig him to get to the counter. Arnav made his way towards a relatively empty area. He decided to wait in the car for the environment was not much of his liking.

“How many times have I told her that there is absolutely no need to travel by these lousy trains, but no, when has she ever listened to me? And her orders, do not call me, when I am in Lucknow, its family time. Bloody unbelievable! And these bloody trains, never on time. What can you expect when fucking assholes regulate this country.” and busily cursing the Indian Railways and her he made his way towards the exit, only to be stopped in his way as he felt someone pulling at his pants. And he looked down to see two huge dark eyes staring back at him.

“Arre Beta, how many times have I told you, this is bad manner. Comeon now say sorry to uncle.” but the toddler was probably another ASR in making, for she just made a face, slapped her father’s head and made her way towards a woman reading some magazine, her mother perhaps, Arnav thought.

“Sorry Bhaisaab, I don’t know why but she has huge issues with saying sorry.” the man apologized instead.

“It’s okay, I understand.” and funny as it may seem he actually did. The stranger smiled at him and made his way towards his family, perhaps? 

Dropping his plans of leaving for the SUV and sat on a corner bench fascinated by the child. For the next one hour the kid entertained the great ASR without even trying to as he ran all over the place and slapped his father mercilessly, laughed and cried and at times did both at the same time, he sang and danced unaware and unabashed in his innocence. Is it right what they say, ‘ignorance is bliss’, he wondered.

Finally the announcement was made,

“Yatri kripya dhyan den, Katihaar se nikal kar, Lucknow ke raaste Delhi aane wali Amrapali Express platform sankhya 1 par aane wali hai.”

“Passengers please pay attention…

 And as the train finally entered the station premises, Arnav made his way towards S7, yes that was where her reservation was.

“Hell, she wouldn’t even agree on an AC booking” he mumbled again.

The train finally stopped and hoards of passengers started de-boarding the train, pushing anyone and everyone around, not even caring if the great ASR was in their way and this frustrated him to no extent. As another one pushed him he turned around muttering a ‘What the!’ but froze mid-way as her heard someone shriek and then saw a flash of red… half sitting, half laying on her luggage which lay on the ground. A beautiful red shawl with intricate golden design covered her yellow-clad form and dark curtains of her waist length hair curtained her face from him. he sub-consciously craned his neck a bit to get a better view of her face. he saw her trying to get up, but she slipped again, and Arnav took a sub-conscious step towards her, but then stopped in his tracks as his conscious mind took control. And by then even she had managed to stand… her back facing him.

‘Well it wasn’t a practical possibility to save her from that fall.’ he though to himself, what scared him though was that he had wanted to. Wanting to save some stranger, now here was a first for the Raizada.
*************************

Khushi felt the continuous piercing gaze on her back. She was scared and angry… but she was also alone, hence she decided to work on the scared part, leaving out the anger part. She thus decided to move from there, but the gaze though giving her goosebumps was strangely… warm… and she couldn’t stop herself as she turned her head slightly… her eyes for some unknown reason halting on a black suit clad figure some distance from her…

PS: So guys, how was it? I know its a little slow paced, but that's how I planned it. Just be a little patient, wheels of action are set in motion now. Do drop in your comments.

Love,

Srija