Epilogue

Arnav Singh Raizada and Khushi Kumari Gupta were married since two years. After their wedding, Arnav insisted that she completes her journalism studies while he was successfully running his new company in the construction business.. He believed that Khushi always loved to live independently, and he would not let this change. He no more helped his sister in the fashion house as his beloved wife took up his role. Sometimes he just feels like being an outsider in between the two ladies. Khushi still worked at the nightclub as part time DJ, her favorite hobby and at times she brought Anjali with her while one of the guys, either Arnav or Rahul sneaked in to protect the ladies of their life.. In the nightclub, she was no more Kashish, but Mrs Raizada.. and she so liked it to be called by her surname... She said that when she is addressed by Mrs Raizada.. she felt even more sexier than before.. In other words, Arnav and Khushi were the most perfect and happening couple in town.

******

Location: London... Raizada mansion

2 years later..

The house was in full preparations for two upcoming weddings... The wedding of NK-Nats and Viren-Lavanya were to be held tonight and while his Di and jiju were too busy, Arnav was given only two simple tasks. The first one was to take care of his one and a half years old niece, Amishka.. and the second one... to handle his crazy wife.. Khushi was in her 9 months and the date was nearing.. The wedding was to be postponed to the next year as Anjali and Payal believed a lot in astrology and according to the panditji, the couple should get married now or next year.. But thankfully to Khushi, the couple didn't have to wait more as she promised the elders that she will not exhaust herself in the preparations and will stay in her room taking rest like a good girl. But these promises had consequences.. Arnav was breathless.. He stopped and bent down holding his knees.. He was tired.. Tired of running.. He took another breath, and bravely ran up the stairs to his room...  Khushi was comfortably settled in bed with Amishka playing by her side.. As Arnav entered the room, she was laughing her heart out at the joey and chandler scenes from friends episodes on tv..  His chef cap on his head, Arnav brought a smile on his face and walked to Khushi with a plate full of jalebi.. As her eyes fell on the jalebis, she bit her lips deliciously before snatching the plate from Arnav's hand. Arnav could only nodded unbelievably.. Khushi was crazy and Kashish crazier, he knew that.. but he never thought that pregnancy adds to the craziness of the woman.. She stuffed down all the jalebi while Arnav admired her, eating like a mad woman.. A smile curved on his lips..

ASR thinks: Gosh! What is she made of? She's so sexy no matter the situation..

His trance broke as he heard Khushi in her innocent voice..

Khushi: Arnieee...

His eyes popped out as he understood her tricks. He finally lashed out and yelled on her..

ASR: No Khushi, not again..it's the 10^th time I went to the kitchen for you.. and the last time also!

Khushi pouted, her eyes welled up with tears and making a puppy sad face, she said...

Khushi: Chilla kyun rahe... (Why are you yelling...) I just needed a hug!

She grimaced sadly and lowered her eyes.. Arnav felt guilty as his heart ached on seeing his angel's tears. Immediately he sat on the bed and cupped her face. He wiped her tears and said guiltily..

ASR: I'm sorry baby.. I'm really sorry!

He hugged her and Khushi passed her arms around his back as she laid her head on his shoulders. A victorious smile played on her lips and she said..

Khushi: Arnieee..

ASR: hmm..

Khushi: The baby wants to eat pizza.

He pulled off her hug and stared at her mischievous pout... She couldn't control her laughter anymore, and burst out laughing at the fooled expression of Arnav. Arnav was now irritated and moved out of the bed while in a serious tone he said...

ASR: Fine! I'll get you your pizza!

Arnav removed his chef cap, turned and walked away angrily while Khushi smacked her head for irritating Arnav again.. As she called him, he ignored her when suddenly...

Khushi: Aaa!

She held her tummy in pain. Arnav turned on the spot and rushed to Khushi worriedly..As she touched her, her scream stopped and Arnav understood that she was faking as usual.. Cutely she held her ears and said..

Khushi: I'm sorry.. I'm really very sorry! I won't do it again...

He signed irritatingly and said in a serious tone..

ASR: Khushi, I don't care if you do it again and again.. I'm ready to run from the room to the kitchen the whole day for you. But the fact is, why are you doing it? And don't tell me because you are hungry!

Khushi pouted as guilt was clearly written on her face.

Khushi: Because when you do things for me, it makes me feel special even if I'm fat, grumpy and I look terribly ugly..

He stared at her guilty face till he burst out laughing. She knew he would laugh if she told him the truth and now she was irritated. Arnav nodded smilingly while she looked away angrily. He forced her to move slightly and took place into the bed next to her. Both had their back rested on the headboard and he passed his one arm on her shoulders and pulled her to lean on his chest... He pulled the quilt on them up to their waist and stared at her..

ASR: Now how do you feel?

She said in a serious tone..

Khushi: Better!

He approached her ears and whispered something which instantly brought a bright smile on her face.. Their lips brushed each other and he looked into her eyes as she said naughtily...

Khushi: Much Better!

Arnav smirked victoriously and was about to capture her lips when suddenly the little Amishka giggled as she glared confusingly at the lovey-dovey couple. Both look at the kid and laughed as the baby crawled onto their legs. Arnav played with the kid while Khushi admired them.. A knock on the door and the couple looked towards HP who rushed into the room...

HP: Arnav beta, Anjali betiya ne kaha ke mein amishka ko lekar niche ajao aur ap dono tayar hosakte.. (Anjali told to bring Amishka down and that you both should get ready..)

ASR: Ok..

HP took Amishka and walked away while Arnav and Khushi stayed cuddle to each other.. Khushi rested her head on his chest happily..

Khushi: Arnav!

ASR: Hmm..

She raised her face and looked at him..

Khushi: Thank you!

He looked at her confused..

ASR: For what?

Khushi: For this... our happy world! I never thought I'll have such a happy family..

She leaned back on his chest while he kissed on her head.

Khushi: I'm so happy.. my life is perfect.. there's you.. Di, Jiju,, Amishka.. I've missed Babhi and Anu a lot, thank god Bhai will be working in London now.. I'm also happy for our friends.. Viren and Lavanya are so made for each other.. and Nats and NK, gosh I still can't believe that NK's name is NandKishore.. Nats says if she knew this from before she would have never fallen for him..

And she laughed happily. She felt Arnav laid his hand on her baby bump and she lifted her eyes to face him..

ASR: And our angel!

Khushi smiled while a tear fell down her cheeks..

ASR: I'm so waiting to hold her in my arms.. I bet she would be the same as you.. pyarii aur todi si pagal.. aur tum dono ladies ko sambalte main pagal ho jaoonga..(cute and a bit crazy.. and to handle you both crazy ladies, I'll go crazy..)

Khushi chuckled as she caressed his face and pecked his lips. They stared at each other, and he brought her hands to his lips and kissed her knuckles. Anjali, Payal and Anu were at the door. While Anjali and Payal got so emotional seeing their siblings so happy in their life, Anu was so excited to see her hottie and hotwaa. And she naughtily interrupted them..

Anu: Hey love birds, should I close the door?

They lifted their eyes towards the door. Khushi chuckled while Arnav felt really awkward at the staring of the ladies.. All burst out laughing at him.. The ladies walked to them..

Anjali: Arnav, you'll do me a great favor if you both get ready.. Romance can wait and Khushi needs extra time as she has to get dressed carefully..

ASR: Don't worry Di I'll take care of her.. You go!

Anu's jaw dropped and her hands on her waist she said in a serious tone...

Anu: Are you driving us away?

And Arnav nodded a yes..

ASR: Yes I am.. come on, out everyone!

The ladies giggled as Arnav got off the bed and drove them out of his room. He closed the door and turned to Khushi who looked at him with a naughty smile. She gave her a sexy flying kiss and he walked to her, lifting her from the bed. He carried her to the bathroom and closed the door with his leg as Khushi smiled to his man.

*******

The rituals were going on.. there were two mandaps and the brides and grooms looked very happy.. Arnav didn't leave Khushi's side a single moment.. Khushi was enough stubborn to convince him to let her stand and enjoy the wedding of her best friends.. Arnav had his arms around her waist throughout all the rituals.. Khushi's face glowed with happiness as the bride and groom exchanged the garlands. Suddenly her expressions changed as she sensed a painful move in her tummy.. She was breathing heavily when Arnav looked at her.. He panicked as he saw her.

ASR: Khushi!

Instantly she held his hand signing him not to panic in front of everyone. She didn't want to ruin the ceremony. Arnav understood and held her tightly as silently they sneaked out of the hall.. On his way he called the guards to bring the car at the door.. He helped her getting into the car and zoomed off to the hospital.. Khushi was in pain.. he called the doctor informing him that they are reaching the hospital as Khushi was in labour. He was driving as fast as he could while Khushi yelled in pain...

Khushi(yelling): What the f**k? It's hurting man...

Arnav tried his best to calm her.. but he was more nervous.. he prepared himself for this moment but he couldn't see her in this state.. All the way he prayed to god to keep his Khushi and his baby safe while Khushi kept on yelling...

Khushi: Aaa! Stop hurting me you son of a...

She stopped as Arnav yelled louder..

ASR: Khushi!

Khushi looked at him angrily.

Khushi: What?

ASR: Mind your tongue.. this is my baby you are talking about..

Khushi: What the hell, here I'm having contractions over contractions and you... don't even want to lose a chance to fight!

ASR: Shut up!

They finally reached the hospital... the nurses and doctor were already standby at the main door waiting for them. Bramwell was the best hospital and Arnav made sure that Khushi will get the best facilities during her delivery. Arnav lifted her in his arms and placed her on the stretcher... The doctor reassured Arnav that there is no worry while Khushi screamed out.. They were pushing the stretcher while Arnav talked to Khushi trying to calm her.. Khushi grabbed his collar and yelled at him..

Khushi: What the hell did you do to me? All this is your fault? Aaahhh!

ASR thinks: Unbelievable!

Arnav nodded in disbelief while the nurses giggled at the fighting couple. As they reached the delivery wards, Khushi held Arnav's hand in fear and the doctor looked at Arnav...

Doctor: Mr Raizada, you can be with her for the delivery.

ASR: Ok Doc, thank you!

*******

The contractions were violent and she was ready for the delivery. Arnav held her hands as she cried in pain after each contraction.. Arnav wiped off the sweat on her forehead.. She was tired, but she had to continue.. for the man by her side.. He kept on encouraging her, holding her hand.. As the doctor told her to push one last time.. breathless, her tears falling, she looked at Arnav..

ASR: One last time baby!

The love of Arnav could make her do anything.. As they looked at each other.. she pushed harder crying out loud.. They finally heard the cries of the baby and Khushi fell back onto the pillow completely exhausted.

Doc: It's a beautiful princess.

Arnav's eyes welled up with tears as he said to his wife..

ASR: You've done it!

Khushi nodded.

Khushi: No... We've done it!

The nurse came to them with the baby enveloped into a white towel and placed her into the arms of Khushi. She was finally here, the little angel made of love.. She kissed her daughter's forehead and then looked at her teary husband..

Khushi: You want to hold her..

Arnav nodded a yes.. and Khushi helped him to hold the baby.. She was so small, so delicate.. Khushi stared at Arnav while he kissed his baby.. He was proud of his wife, proud of himself..

ASR: She's so beautiful...

He placed the baby back into the arms of his wife and sat next to her.. He passed his arms around her shoulders while Khushi talked to her daughter in a baby voice.. Khushi turned to face Arnav and saw how he was staring at her when he suddenly captured her lips. A kiss of love.. of happiness.. the proud feeling of being a husband to Khushi and finally becoming a father.. He was the happiest man ever.. They broke apart, their nose still touching each other.. He whispered against her lips...

ASR: Thank you Khushi

Khushi: I love you Arnav...

ASR: I love you too..

Arnav hugged Khushi and his little angel. Impatient, Anjali finally cleared her throat to get the attention of the couple. They looked towards the door where Anjali, Payal, Rahul, Anu, Shyam, Viren, Lavanya, NK and Nats were eagerly waiting to have a glimpse of the new born. Anjali said pleadingly...

Anjali: Can we come in pleaseee?

The couple chuckled... and said in unison..

Arshi: Come in!

The bunch of people rushed in and it was a battalion who will hold the baby first.. Arnav and Khushi stayed cuddle to each other as their angel was flying from one hand to another. Finally it was the turn of Anu who's been waiting for long desperately.. Payal placed the baby in her arms carefully and everyone admired her.. Anu's happiness knew no bound.. She was the most excited about this pregnancy.. Anjali turned towards Arnav and Khushi excitedly and said...

Anjali: Have you guys thought about a name?

Arnav and Khushi turned to each other and then shifted their eyes to Anu. The gang was confused while Anu was completely ignorant of the stare on her.

ASR: Anu!

She lifted her eyes towards Arnav questioningly.

ASR: Have you decided a name for the baby?

Her eyes popped out while the other looked at each other confused...

Anu: You.. you remembered?

Khushi and Arnav smiled.

ASR: Of course I remember our deal.. You help me to marry Khushi and in return I'll let you decide the name of our first baby! Right?

Anu smiled excitedly while everyone had tears in their eyes.. Tears of happiness..

Anjali: So Anu tell naaa, what's her name going to be?

All looked at her impatiently and she said..

Anu: A for Arnav and K for Khushi

They stared at her confusingly.. She smirked and as she said the next few words, they were all awed at the name of the baby..

~Her name is AKira~

THE END

Chapter 19B: When They Tied the Knot... (final chapter)

Chapter 19B: When They Tied the Knot... (final chapter)

Nanaji stood shell-shocked as he looked into the eyes of the angry brother of Khushi. Khushi was on the verge to cry.. She couldn't believe that her brother had come for her gudiya(doll). Arnav had his arms around her waist holding her tight.. Payal's eyes welled up on seeing her husband. Afterall it had been months since she saw him.

Nanaji: Shyam!

Nanaji faked a smile while Shyam left his hand.

Nanaji: Shyam beta! Tum yahan.. Acha hua tum aee.. (You here.. good you came..)

Shyam: Bas! Mujhe sab pata hai Nanaji... apko kuch kehne ki koi zaroorat nahin hai..(Enough! I know everything Nanaji... You don't need to say anything..)

Khushi: Bhai!

As he heard Khushi, Shyam turned to her doll and smiled with teary eyes. Seconds later, Khushi ran into his arms in tears. Viren and Payal rushed down the stage and approached the siblings.

Khushi: Bhai you are really here? I just cannot believe it!

As she said in between her sobs, Shyam pulled off the hug and raised Khushi's chin up so as to look into her eyes.

Shyam: You cannot believe it? Khushi when you have someone like Arnav who loves you immensely, then everything is possible...

Khushi looked at Arnav in confusion. Arnav smiled at her with only love for her gleaming in his eyes.

Khushi: Matlab yeh?(You mean he?)

Shyam ignored Nanaji and was all set to get his sister married today. He wiped Khushi's tears and said...

Shyam: Haan.. yeh sab Arnav ne kiya.. Viren aur Anu ki madad se.. Aaj mein aaya apni gudiya ki shaadi ke liye.. aur...(Yes.. Arnav has done all this.. with the help of Anu and Viren.. today I came to the wedding of my doll.. and...)

He looked towards his wife and daughter.

Shyam: Apni biwi aur beti apne saath lejaane ke liye. (to take my wife and daughter with me)

Payal smiled and blushed at the way her husband glared at her. Their trance broke as Nanaji interrupted them.

Nanaji: Yeh kya kehraha ho tum?(What are you saying)

Shyam: Jo apne suna! Ab bas nanaji.. I respect you.. lekin iska matlab nahin ke mein apko apni behein ki zindagi barbaad karne doonga.. Khushi ne bahut kuch saha.. aur agar mujhe yeh sab pehle se pata hota to main kabhi bhi payal aur anu ko yahan rehne deta.. Mein mama ke liye yahan nahin ta.. lekin khushi ka bhai abhi zinda hai.. (What you heard! Now enough Nanaji.. I respect you.. but this doesn't mean that I'll let you ruin my sister's life.. Khushi suffered a lot.. and if I knew this before and I would have never let Payal and Anu to live here.. I was not here for mum but Khushi's brother is still alive..)

Nanaji: Shyam beta yeh arnav tumhe barkaraha hai.. (Shyam this arnav is instigating you..)

Shyam: No! I trust my sister.. and I surely trust the one she loves..

Shyam looked at Viren.

Shyam: Viren sab kuch tayar hai? (Viren all arrangements are done?)

Viren:  Ofcourse jiju.. all set! Only waiting for the bride and groom...

Viren looked at Khushi and Arnav excitedly. He turned towards the guests and in his cool attitude he took the mike and said...

Viren: Ladies and gents, I'm you must be enjoying the party.. but change of plan.. please kindly move to the garden area.. Thank you!

While the guests began moving out of the hall, Shyam cupped Khushi's face and kissed her forehead.

Shyam: Khushi, I wished that when you get married, I would have made lots of preparation for this special day. But I've been always absent from your life.. and today you'll be getting married on a rush.. But I'm sure you understand our decisions.. Mein, Arnav, Viren... hum theeno ne yeh faisla liya tumhe puche bina...(Me, Arnav, Viren... we three took this decision without asking you..)

While talking to his sister, he couldn't stop his tears from falling. And he looked at Nanaji..

Shyam: I don't trust this man anymore..

He turned back to Khushi.

Shyam: Aur aaj.. wo yeh shaadi nahi roksakega.. (And today.. he cannot stop this wedding..)

Nanaji finally growled and turned around stepping away from the family.

ASR: Ek Minute... (One minute...)

But as he heard the sudden voice, he stopped on the spot and turned to face a smirking Arnav..

ASR: Aap bhagwan nahin hai.. (You are not god..) so stop thinking that you are god, varna akri waqt par ap bhilkul akela rehjayenge.. aur haan Arnav Singh Raizada apne kismat khud likte hai.. aur meri kismat mein kushi ka saath hai... (else at the end moment, you'll be left all alone.. and yeah... Arnav Singh Raizada writes his own destiny.. and my destiny is with Khushi...)

Fumingly he stepped away and disappeared from the hall. Payal approached Khushi and smilingly said..

Payal: To kya dulhan tayar hain?(So is the bride ready?)

Viren, Payal and Shyam stared at her amusingly as her cheeks turned red. She looked at Arnav with pleading eyes to save her from her family but Arnav smirked and enjoyed the scene. She was shocked as he was having fun on seeing her blushing... But who better can help her getting out of this awkward situation apart the daring Kashish.. A mischief glint glowed in her eyes and Arnav knew his lady love so well.

ASR thinks: Oh no..

Khushi lowered her eyelids and shyly said to her brother..

Khushi: Bhai... kya mein shaadi se pehle, Arnav se  akele mein baat karsakti? (can I talk to Arnav in private before the wedding?)

Shyam: Ofcourse!

Arnav's eyes popped out and he nodded...

ASR thinks: Arnav beta tu to gaya! (Arnav you are so dead!)

Khushi stepped away followed by Arnav. As they reached her room, she closed the door and cornered him... Both stared at each other.. Khushi brought her hands to his face and caressed his forehead and cheeks. He so wanted to kiss her lips right now and as he approached his lips to capture hers, he cried out in pain when the soft hands of Khushi slapped him.

ASR: Ooouuuchhh...

She raised her eyebrows in anger.

ASR: What is wrong with you Khushi?

And she hit him again but this time on his hard chest..

Khushi: How could you arnav? You had been planning all this and you kept me in the dark.. You moron, idiot!

And she hit him again...

ASR: Ouccchhh...

Arnav pushed her and ran from her hold while Khushi couldn't chase him because of her lengha. As he stood far from her, he said...

ASR: I just wanted to surprise you!

Khushi yelled..

Khushi: Surprise ya shock.. I almost died when I had to remove your ring!

And her eyes welled up as she remembered that moment. On the spot Arnav reached her and cupped her face..

ASR: Baby I'm really sorry.. I promise I won't do it again.. Don't cry please.. your make up will be ruined and then I'll have to marry an ugly you.

He chuckled while Khushi's mouth formed an O-shape. She hit him again before crashing into his hug.

Khushi: I love you... Thank you Arnav!

Arnav raised her chin up and pierced into her eyes naughtily.

ASR: I'd better have a kiss than a thank you.. I'm dying to take you since I saw you in that sexy outfit!

Khushi grabbed his collar pulling him closer to her lips as she took him into a passionate kiss. The knock on the door brought them back and they heard the giggling voice of Viren.

Viren: Guys I've been standing for too long behind this door... Leave some for the wedding night love birds.. The panditji won't wait for long...

Khushi left Arnav and was about to open the door when Arnav stopped her. Khushi looked at him confusingly as Arnav yelled out to Viren..

ASR: 5 minutes.. we'll be here..

Viren: Ok! Only 5 minutes..

And Viren walked away amusingly while Khushi stared at Arnav.

Khushi: Kya hua?(What happen?)

ASR: Nothing.. I just needed to tell you this..

She raised her eyebrows questioningly.

Khushi: Kya? (What?)

ASR: That I love you.. and I'll always try to be the best husband..

A smile curved onto her lips.

ASR: I cannot imagine my life without you Khushi Kumari Gupta.

Khushi cupped his face and kissed his forehead.

Khushi: You already proved to be the best husband.

Naughtily, she brought her arms around his neck.

Khushi: In fact... best husband, best lover, best friend.. and upon that best sex..

And she winked at him.

Khushi: I'm so waiting for our wedding night!

He pecked her lips and said sweetly...

ASR: Aab chale! (Now shall we go!)

Khushi: Wait... (Wait...)

He looked at her questioningly.

ASR: What?

Khushi: How the hell does Viren knows about us? and since when?

Arnav smirked.

ASR: Kashish babe, I'm madly in love with your wildness and your carefree style.. But sometimes one of us really needs to be responsible...

Khushi pouted.

Khushi: What do you mean?

ASR: I love to be with you.. you are wild, crazy, sometimes mind blasting but this time, my whole life was at risk.. I would have never taken the risk to lose you.. the next day I came in this house, in the morning I went to knockout Viren but then I realized that he was just the best friend who wanted to give you a better life away from this hell.

Khushi smiled.

Khushi: Yeah that he is!

Suddenly they heard a knock on the door and Payal said in a low voice...

Payal: Khushi are you ready?

Khushi: Yeah Babhi, I'm coming!

Arnav signed irritatingly and nodded..

ASR: Seriously, in this house.. to get some privacy, better come from the balcony.

Khushi giggled and pulled off from his hold. She opened the door and blushed as she saw the amused look of her babhi...

Payal: Arnavji aap jaye, mein Khushi ko lekar aati hoon. (Arnav you go, I'll bring Khushi..)

Arnav smiled and walked away from the room.

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

Simple but perfect... just the way it needed to be! In the short span of time.. that's the best Viren and Anu could have done.. especially to spare the back side garden of the house out of the eye sight of hitler.. How this was tough? It is clearly written on the tired face of Anu who's been running from here and there so as to keep Payal and hitler busy.. The people gathered around the mandap while Arnav sat and waited for his bride.. The panditji started his mantras which was a torture for Arnav... when suddenly his eyes popped out..

ASR thinks: Shit! Di!

He looked towards Viren and Lavanya and they both gave him a thumbs up.. As they moved aside Arnav's eyes fell on the happiness glowing on the face of his Di. She was so happy. By her side, her husband who was as excited as Anjali. And behind them standing Nk and Nats.. But what the hell, why Nk and Nats were hands in hands.. Anjali so wished to hug his brother and kissed his forehead but meantime she sent a flying kiss looking at the webcam. She had tears in her eyes as she saw Khushi approaching the mandap.. Arnav lifted his eyes towards Khushi and smiled proudly at his beautiful bride.. She was in the lengha he gifted her but her head was covered with a beautiful red ghoogat.. She sat next to him and Arnav placed his hand on hers as he sensed her nervousness.. They both stared at each other and went through all the rituals while the family's happiness knew no bound.. Shyam gave away his kiddo to Arnav.. Payal smiled tearingly while Viren put his arms around her shoulders..

Viren: Di... Don't worry! Not better than Khushi but I'm sure somewhere in this world there must be a girl made for me.

Payal smiled and kissed his forehead. She walked to her husband while Viren stared at Lavanya who couldn't stop blushing. The panditji declared the couple as wife and husband and they both took the blessings of Shyam and Payal. Lavanya and Viren both hugged the couple and Anu ran to Arnav. As he swept her off the floor, Anu kissed Khushi before saying to Arnav...

Anu: Aab mera treat?(Now my treat?)

ASR: Don't worry princess.. I still remember!

Anu: And dare not to forget! As without me this wedding would be impossible..

Arnav smiled at her innocence..

ASR: Thank you princess.. thanks for helping me, thanks for calling your dad here... and very important.. thanks for convincing your mama to let me gift my bride her wedding dress..

She winked at him naughtily while the couple laughed happily.

Anu: Anytime hotwa!  

Author's Note to my blog and IF members...

This is it guys.. It's over.. gosh I feel like crying.. Thank you thank you thank you to all the readers.. It's the first story I'm ending and now I can feel I'm a writer.. lolzzz.. My POV: sometimes I gave you the best, and the other times I gave you the worst updates.. but you've been supportive no matter what.. Thanks a lot for all these encouraging comments throughout this journey. A special thanks to 2 sweethearts, Anamikarocks and ara_000, they had been the life of my threads with their long full-on masti comments.. And to my other commenters, too many I cannot take names, but I'm sure they'll recognized themselves.. A super fun epilogue coming up on 6^thjune as a double treat, for the 2^nd anniversary of IPK and which is also my birthday! Love you all... And stay tuned to my other stories.. who knows maybe someday a season 2 might come up. Please leave your comments.. I really want to know your sincere thoughts about the story.. 

Chapter 19A: Sagaii ya phir... (Engagement or...)

ASR: Khushi!

His voice echoed from the speakers.. Her eyes popped out and she looked towards the crowd.. Every guest turned around while a confused Nanaji and Payal looked straight ahead where Arnav was standing holding a mike. Khushi stared into his eyes and he said with a confidence...

ASR: Don't do it! Don't take the ring off Khushi..

A lonely tear fell down her cheek and a smile finally curved on her lips. They both stared at each other completely indifferent to the world staring at them while Payal and Nanaji turned to Khushi in shock. Seeing all this, Nanaji was unable to understand a thing but he surely knew something was going to happen... He was fuming in anger and called out Khushi in an angry tone.

Nanaji: Khushi!

Lost in the love of Arnav, the voice of Nanaji went unheard. "If he calls her once, she'll run happily into his arms without any hesitation", that was what her heart was telling her.. She no more cared about anything.. She broke the eyelock and turned towards Viren.

Khushi: I'm sorry Viren.. I cannot do this!

Viren raised his eyebrows and looked at her angrily

Viren: You ought to be.. Your lover boy almost strangled me the other day.

His sudden words shocked her. The rest of the crowd didn't hear him, but Nanaji and Payal were close enough and they were more confused than before...

Khushi: You.. you knew?

Suddenly his mouth curved up breaking into a wide smile and he winked naughtily...

She wiped her tear and smiled. As she turned away ignoring both Payal and Nanaji, she was stepping away when someone held her wrist. She didn't have to see who it was. Obviously the one who cannot accept defeat again.. She turned and bored into the fuming eyes of Nanaji. Nanaji looked around him well conscious of the surroundings. He controlled his anger and tried to appear as normal as he could. He turned his eyes towards Arnav who smirked at him arrogantly.

Nanaji: Mr Raizada, koi problem hai? (Mr Raizada, any problem?)

ASR: Haan!... Yeh sagaii nahin hosakta!(Yes!...This engagement cannot happen!)

All looked at him in confusion while Khushi was impressed by his guts. Nanaji was fuming and Khushi's heart was jumping in joy. Confidence took over the fear on her face and she finally breathed in peace.

Nanaji: Aur kya mein poochsakta hai kyun nahin hosakta yeh sagai? (And can I ask why?)

He let a sarcastic laugh and said...

ASR: Are aaj khushi ki sagai kaise hosakta hai, uski sagai to ho chuki hai!... Mere Saath!(how can Khushi get engage today when she is already engaged!... With Me!)

The confession of Arnav shocked more than one. The people around began murmuring among themselves and Khushi gulped her breath as she looked at Payal shocked face worriedly. Khushi held her wrist which forced her to look into Khushi's eyes. She slowly nodded in affirmation to her babhi. Nanaji was shocked and furious.. He never expected such bomb! This was humiliating... And he was so not ready to let this happen... He forgot about the guests and rushed down the stage barking angrily at Arnav.

Nanaji: Yeh kya bakwaas hai.. tumhara dimaag karab ho kya? (What is this nonsense.. have you lost it?)

Arnav handed the mike to Lavanya who was standing by his side and walked tall towards Nanaji. He looked into his eyes without a blink and any fear. Arnav appeared calm but inside he was as angry as Nanaji. He still had the flashes of Khushi talking about her past. What happened to Khushi's mother, he'll make sure that this will never happen to anyone again.. at least not to the people of this house.. either his Khushi, Payal babhi, or Anu.. this was his family now. He reached near Nanaji and stood in front of him confidently.

ASR: Bakwaas nahin sachaiii hai.. Mein aur Khushi ek dhoosre se pyar karti hai.. London se! Aur kar raat hamari sagaaii ho chuki hai.. Na-na-ji! (Not nonsense.. Khushi and I we both love each other.. from London! And we got engaged yesterday night.. Na-na-ji!)

Payal's eyes welled up.. She looked towards Khushi feeling guilty. Khushi was not only her sister in law, but her sister and also her daughter.. How couldn't she see that her princess was unhappy with all this.. and why did she agree to this. But the answer was crystal clear.. For her! If Khushi cared about anyone's happiness in this house, it was only Payal and Anu. She closed her eyes and thanked her god for stopping this engagement on time when suddenly Nanaji took everyone by shock in his anger as he grabbed Arnav's collar. And he said in a low voice so as to avoid all ears..

Nanaji: Tum yeh soch bhi nahin sakta ke mein kya karsakta.. dafa ho jayo yahaan se iss se pehle ke tum pachtao! (You cannot even think what I can do.. just get lost from here before you regret it!)

Arnav let a sarcastic laugh and forcefully stepped back from his grip. He smirked and said loudly but in a cool voice..

ASR: Unbelievable! You still think.. ke jo aap chaate wohi hoga (that what you want will happen).. tss tss.. Wake up Nanaji, waqt aage ho chukka..  Bahut kuch badal gaya.. Na mujhe apke damkiyon se dar hai aur na Khushi apki beti hai! Khushi bahut zyada strong hai.. (Time has gone ahead.. lots have changed.. I'm not scared of your threats and Khushi is not your daughter! Khushi is way much stronger..)

Nanaji was shocked at what Arnav just said.. How the hell does he know about his daughter? As he looked at Khushi, it reminded him of that day.. The day his daughter died and Khushi standing behind the door listening to his conversation. He was fuming and now he was repenting that he took it lightly.. Arnav turned his eyes towards his lady love and extended his hand to her. Khushi smiled and looked to her Babhi.

Khushi: Babhi woh...

Payal: Nahin Khushi.. Aaj nahin... tum wohi karo jo tumhara dil kehraha hai.. (No Khush.. Not today... you'll do what your heart is telling you..)

Khushi crashed into her arms happily. As they broke their hug, Payal kissed her forehead and Khushi turned away. She held her lengha and rushed down the stage. As she approached Arnav, she placed her hand in his and they both looked at Nanaji.

ASR: To aab  nanaji, (So now nanaji) what are you going to do? Kya apke paas koi plan hai kya?  Aap plan ke bare mein soche aur (Do you have any plan? You think about the plan and) meantime I'll take my plan into action. Aur don't worry.. yeh sab tayari, (all these arrangements) decorations, guests,.. I won't let it go waste! Afterall we are family!

Apart from Lavanya and Viren, everyone was confused. Khushi loved this side of him but she was as much confused when suddenly... In the center of the hall, all eyes stuck onto them, Arnav bent onto his knees looking straight into her eyes.. Her heart skipped a beat as he kissed her knuckles. The tears threatening to fall, she felt restless waiting for his next words while Arnav smirked at her impatience.

ASR: Khushi Kumari Gupta.. Yesterday I made you wear this ring without asking you if you were willing to take this relationship ahead... How dumb of me, isn't it?

He chuckled at his own words while khushi smiled.

ASR: But today, I want to ask you officially in front of everyone.. Kya tum mujhse Shaadi Karogi, aaj, abhi, isi waqt? (Will you marry me, today, now, at this moment?)

Khushi was unable to control her tears anymore while Nanaji's eyes popped out in shock. Oldies among the guests were disgusted at such boldness of the two lovers while the youngsters especially the young girls were awed at the scene.

Khushi: Haan!(Yes!)

Both were lost in their world and completely forgot Nanaji by their side. Viren had his arms around Payal and they both stared at the couple with tears in their eyes. They were so happy for their princess. Khushi laid a hand on his shoulders forcing him to stand in front of her as she said in between her sobs.

Khushi: Haan mein tumse shaadi karogi.. Aaj koi darr nahin.. Sirf tum aur main.. (Yes I will marry you.. Today no fear.. Only you and me..)

And she jumped to his neck. Their bodies crashed into each other.. She didn't care about the world around.. and the shocked guests. She felt no embarrassment.. She could stay for hours.. Arnav passed his arms around her bare waist.  Nanaji lowered his eyes as he felt mortified. They broke their hug and looked at each other happily. Suddenly the trance broke when Nanaji pulled her angrily from Arnav. Nanaji still couldn't believe it.. All these years of respect and pride in the society.. how could he let it crushed in just a moment? He didn't spare his own daughter for this! And he whispered..

Nanaji: Yeh kya tamasha hai khushi... yeh bakwaas ban kar do.. (What is this drama khushi... stop all this nonsense..)

Khushi was irritated now.. and she had enough of this nanaji drama.. She forcefully pulled her arms from Nanaji and yelled angrily..

Khushi: Enough!

Nanaji was shell-shocked. Khushi has always been difficult since a kid but she never raised her tone when she talked to him. But there was more.. She had enough.. She suffered enough.. and she had to lashed it out.

Khushi: I hate you Mr Baajpaye... I- hate - you.. I wished ke meri mama apko yeh kehpati.. Apko to baap kehne ke layak hi nahi hain.. Apne uski zindagi barbaad ki hain.. Aur aab meri bhi zindagi? Kabhi nahin! Aap sirf ek matlabi insaan hai jo kisi ka bara nahin karsakta.. (I wished that my mother could say this to you. You are not deserved to be called a father.. You ruined her life.. and now my life also? Never! You are only a selfish person who cannot do any good for anyone..) Disgusting!

Nanaji was furious and yelled as he raised his hand to slap Khushi.

Nanaji: Khushi!!

All were shocked. Khushi was scared and turned her face in fear. She crashed into Arnav's chest who stepped forward to protect Khushi. Khushi gripped to Arnav's clothes while Nanaji stayed rooted on the spot. Nanaji pierced into the eyes of the angry man who was holding his hand. The guests confused, Payal shocked, Viren smirked and Khushi froze as she turned and saw who stopped Nanaji from slapping her while the cute Anu standing not too far winked at Arnav victoriously.

To Be Continued..