Chapter Sixteen

With the electricity back up and running, everyone decided to call it a night. Khushi had changed up into her nightwear and was reentering her room, her eyes landed on Arnav. He was sitting up and leaning back in bed, laptop in hand as he checked through some emails. Khushi simply stood there in pause, taking in the fact that this was the first time a man would be sleeping beside her in her bed. Yes she had realized it before, but now, seeing him in her bed, was only making the matter seem more real.

"Is something wrong?"

"Huh?"

Khushi snapped out of her thoughts and saw Arnav looking at her curiously.

"Um, nothing, nothing really," and she went over to her vanity to comb her hair.

As she combed her hair, Khushi noticed in the mirror that Arnav was watching her. She felt a bit odd, but then again, this wasn't really much compared to that one night before.

"Your hair is really long," Arnav eventually said.

"Mm hmm," Khushi nodded.

"Have you always kept it long?"

Khushi timidly shook her head. "No, only after the...."

Arnav looked down and nodded in understanding. "Why," he asked softly.

"Um... well I try my best to cover up as much as I can. I make sure that from the back, my sari is high enough so my scars can't be visible. But as an extra measure, my long hair can cover up better."

Arnav looked at her for a moment and watched her as she opened up the wardrobe and went through it.

"Have you ever wanted to keep it this long? Before I mean, like when you were younger."

"I hated my hair with a passion when I was younger," she said, pulling out what she would be wearing tomorrow and setting it aside.

"Why is that?"

"It always annoyed me and I would always keep it up."

"Why?"

Khushi turned to him. She could see that he was really curious and really wanted to know. The way he was asking all of these questions reminded her of Maya and how their little niece loved to ask why about everything, bringing a small smile to Khushi's face. She went over to the bed and sat down on her side.

"I was a bit more active in high school. Whether it was dealing with drama or fooling around. And just... I don't know.... I used to always have my hair up in a messy bun. Of course, if I tried to do that now, it would only be hair-suicide," she chuckled.

Arnav chuckled lightly as well and he set his laptop aside on the bedside table. "Tell me more - about you before we got married."

"Um... like what," Khushi asked anxiously.

"Anything. What you did for fun, where you would go out to eat with your best friend, stuff like that. You know, like past relationships or anything."

Arnav found himself surprised by his own words as soon as it left his mouth. Khushi's eyes widened as he looked at him in surprise too.

"Sorry, I overstepped things, I'm sorry."

"Don't be," Khushi said softly. "You have a right to ask."

"How?"

"You're my husband."

It occurred to Khushi then that she had never really said those words out loud, not to Arnav, that was for sure. So like Arnav, when the words left her mouth, she was surprised by it. As for Arnav, he was a bit surprised too. This was the first time, after all, that Khushi had addressed him as her husband.

"I don't think that really gives me a right, does it?"

"Why not," Khushi countered. "We are married; you have aright to know me, my past and all."

"I guess.... We really didn't get a chance to really speak to each other properly before we got married, given our circumstances."

Khushi's mind instantly transported her back to that night in the hospital after her accident, how she had met him, how he had proposed to her, how he had kissed her hand.

"But I guess we can get to know each other as the days go on," Arnav said.

Khushi looked up at him and then down at her lap. She nodded slightly, entangling her fingers.

"I've never been in a relationship with anyone before," she admitted.

Arnav's eyes widened. "Not even once?"

She shook her head, glancing up at him. She noticed his eyebrows were raised and that he was in shock, puzzling her.

"Oh, I don't mean any offense," Arnav said, straightening his expression. "I'm just surprised a beautiful woman like you was never involved with a guy in a relatiosnhip before."

Khushi's eyes widened as she went into shock. Beautiful?!

"Wow... I guess... I don't know, I'm just a little surprised. I'm afraid I can't say the same for me."

"Oh?" Khushi hoped that this would help get his comment out of her head.

"Yeah," he admitted, messing with hair. "I never dated anyone until college though. I was just always very determined in being the best for dad, so I didn't care to be in a relationship, though I had my fair share of girls that I did like; just didn't want to date them. It was when I got to college that I finally did it."

"She must've been really pretty," Khushi said, feeling jealousy bubbling within her.

"Well I guess, given that I dated her, I had to have been attracted to her. But I didn't date her cause of her looks. I dunno, college is stressful as it is and I was overseas. I was influenced by some of my friends and I just ended up doing it. I've only dated 2 women in my life - the first one was for only, I think, 4 months. And the other was... about 7 months."

"Wow that's pretty short - none of them lasted a year."

Arnav shook his head. "No, they didn't. It just wasn't working out with either of them."

"Why not?"

"Well, don't get me wrong, they were great girls..."

Again, Khushi felt jealousy bubbling within her.

"...but none of them had the thing that mattered the most."

"Which is?"

"My father's acceptance."

Khushi looked at him in confusion. "Meaning?"

"Meaning once I knew they weren't the type of girl my father would accept, I ended it with them. If they weren't someone my father could accept, then it just wasn't worth it to me."

"That's why you married me - because Papa loved me so much."

Arnav nodded. "The only time I ever saw Papa accept a girl was when Adi Bhai told Dad about his relationship with bhabi. He loved her, so he accepted her. With those girls... it just wasn't going to work, and I could never upset my father. So when I saw how much Papa loved you and wanted for you to be a part of our family, I did it for him."

Khushi couldn't help but to look at Arnav in awe. It was very sweet to see how much Arnav loved and respected his father. It wasn't everyday that you would see a man like - many like Arnav don't exist in such a day of time, her father would say it himself too.

Arnav noticed the way Khushi was looking at him. "What?"

"Nothing... I'm just in awe. Men like you are a rarity in this generation."

Arnav scoffed lightly. "So I've heard - from your father actually."

Khushi nodded. "Bapu used to always worry - wondering how he would ever find a nice guy for me to marry to. But after seeing him with you today, I can tell that he's really happy that I married you," she smiled softly.

"And you?"

Khushi looked at him with confusion.

"Are you happy? ...being married to me?"

Khushi's lips parted in surprise. She didn't know what to say, looking down at her hands in her lap.

"Well?"

Khushi met his eyes for a brief moment before looking away. "Um... well, I'm not... not happy."

Arnav said nothing and waited for her to continue.

"I just... um... I... um...."

"There's no need to hesitate Khushi," Arnav said softly. "Everything you say now, I won't take it personally. I just want for you to be honest, that's all."

Khushi looked at him and gulped.

"From the moment we met and got married, up until now - tell me how feel and tell me the truth."

"Um... okay.... Well... it's been slightly uncomfortable- not because of you or anything you did," she quickly added when she saw Arnav arch his eyebrow. "It's just that... I was always very confused why you quickly decided to just marry me, even though you said why, I was still unsure. But now I truly realize that it was because of Papa that you decided to marry me."

Arnav nodded. "Go on."

"Um... well... it's just that... i feel like... things have been awkward... between us," Khushi nearly whispered.

Arnav arched his eyebrow.

"Bhabi and I have made a connection, even Adi Bhai has become the big brother I've never had. Papa and I get along quite well, and never does he make me feel like an outsider but like his daughter, a member of the family. But the reason why I'm a member of this family to begin with is you but...."

Khushi looked down at her lap and Arnav looked away.

"We've been married for a few months now, and yet it still seems like I'm married to a stranger."

"I understand your feelings," Arnav nodded. "I guess, when it comes to getting to know each other better, I haven't done such a good job."

"I haven't either," Khushi nearly whispered.

Arnav looked at her.

"I've mostly been acting like a shy bride," she blushed, looking away.

Arnav looked at her for a moment before leaning closer to her. Khushi looked at him in surprise as his hand reached up and caressed her cheek, his thumb tracing over the scar on her cheek. He didn't say anything, watching his thumb trace over the scar. All the while, Khushi watched him as he did, remaining silent.

"How about this," he began. "During this week that we're here, we'll get to know each other better. We've already started to learn a few things about each other, we can just go on from there. My goal for this trip was to learn more about you, but I guess you also need to learn more about me as well. So how about we make that the goal of this trip, hmm?"

Khushi nodded. To be honest, she would like that very much, indeed.

Chapter Fifteen

As Arnav said, the following day, he told Sameer of his plan and his father absolutely agreed.

"You two should definitely go," Sameer said. "You two still haven't gone anywhere after your wedding."

"But don't think of this as your honeymoon," Mona said. "This is just a visit to your in-laws, you still have to decide where and when you will go on your honeymoon."

"Right," Sameer agreed. "This is just a trip."

"Okay dad," Arnav grinned.

Later that day, Arnav made a call to Nayan and Nayan was very happy that he and Khushi would be coming to visit for the week. It was decided that they would arrive sometime Monday afternoon and the plan was settled.

Khushi couldn't believe that she was actually going home, after all these days. She was really excited to get home - to be in her room once again, to eat her mother's cooking, to help her father with his business, to go through the roads of her town. She truly couldn't wait to go home, but at the same time, she didn't want leave her home. Although they had only been married for about 3 months, it was strange how quickly this place became her home. But that was probably just one of the wonders of marriage, and she didn't want to leave her in-laws at all.

"I have to admit Khushi, I don't want you to go to your mother's," Sameer said. "Who's going to make me those wonderful jalebis," he pouted.

Everyone else chuckled. Just like that, it was Monday morning and Arnav and Khushi were packed and ready to go. With the family there - except Abhay - to bid them off, they all exchanged their farewells and led the couple to the car. With all their bags put in the trunk, Arnav pulled away from the house and set out to Khushi's home.

The drive took a few hours, and before long, they arrived to Khushi's town. Khushi truly couldn't believe she was back, memories of the old days playing before her eyes as they drove through town.

"I bet you're really happy to be back," Arnav smiled softly.

Khushi nodded. "I'm so excited," she grinned.

Seeing her be so happy made Arnav smile. He turned his attention back to the road and after a few moments, they arrived to Khushi's home. At the door stood Nayan and Sumitra and the second Khushi got out of the car, she ran to her father and hugged him, tears streaming down her cheeks.

"Pagal, why are you crying," Nayan said, though he was choked up as well.

"I missed you both so much," Khushi sniffled.

She reached for her mother and hugged her as well.

Sumitra wiped her tears away. "Now's not the time to cry, laado. Now let me greet you and my son in-law into our home."

Arnav came besides Khushi and Sumitra greeted them into their home, Arnav taking blessings from both of them. Nayan leaded them into the living room, the workers bringing in their luggage.

"I hope the trip went well," Nayam said.

"It went perfectly well," Arnav smiled softly.

Sumitra came into the room and placed a tray of sweets and sherbet.

"Amma, you can't feed him that, he can't have sugar," Khushi exclaimed.

"Pagli, I already know that he can't," Sumitra said, shaking her head. "You only told me that maybe 50 times on the phone last night."

Arnav glanced at Khushi and Khushi leaned into the couch, feeling slightly embarrassed. Sumitra noticed this and she couldn't help herself but to wonder.

*~*

Taking them upstairs, Khushi's parents left them to get settled. Arnav looked around the room, taking it in. He stepped out to the balcony and looked down below, watching the busy streets.

"So this is where you grew up."

Khushi looked up at him and nodded. "Mm hmm."

She went over to him and stood by his side, looking down at the familiar surroundings. It was strange how it all felt so foreign and yet so known. The place she called home for so long felt slightly strange, yet so normal, but all in all, it felt good to be back.

"I can't wait to see the place," Arnav said.

"Well to be honest, there isn't too much to see. The town isn't so big, so there's not too much."

"Maybe for you - after all you grew up here. As for me, this place is foreign, simply the place my wife grew up."

Khushi's eyes shot up to his. He called me his wife.

"I'd like to get to know this place, if not as well as you do, just enough. Hmm?"

Khushi couldn't find her voice, so she simply nodded. Arnav smiled at her softly and went back into the room. Khushi watched as Arnav began to unpack and she quickly snapped out of her trance and helped him. As she put their belongings away, Khushi only realized the reality then.

For the first time ever, the room she had to herself her whole life, was now to be shared with the man who was her husband. For the first time ever, a man was going to sleep in her bed beside her.

Realizing this, stunned Khushi.

Hai DM!

*~*

Later that night, after they had all had dinner, Arnav, Khushi, and her parents were out on the terrace, the electricity having gone out.

"You must not be used to this," Nayan said.

"No, its alright," Arnav replied. "You can actually see the stars up in the sky like this."

Khushi looked up at the sky, admiring all of the shiny stars.

"You know, when Khushi was young, she used to  try her best to count all of the stars," Sumitra said.

"Amma," Khushi whined. She really didn't want to hear any of her embarrassing childhood stories.

"Really," Arnav said.

Khushi looked at Arnav and then at her mother in horror. No!

"Mm hmm. There was a time when she didn't know any number past twenty, so no matter how many she counted, she always said that there were twenty stars in the sky."

Khushi inwardly groaned - she really didn't want to hear any of these stories.

"Is that so," Arnav chuckled lightly.

Khushi blushed slightly. "I was only five."

Arnav chuckled and so did her parents, causing her to frown at them.

"Oh don't make that face laado," Nayan chuckled. "There's a lot more to share of your childhood."

"Bapu," Khushi whined.

"Come Khushi," Sumitra chuckled, "let's go get some drinks from the kitchen."

"Anything to avoid anymore embarrassing stories," Khushi said, twitching her lips, causing her father to chuckle.

Khushi followed her mother down to the kitchen and prepared some sherbet.

"Laado?"

"Hmm?"

Sumitra stopped her for a moment and turned Khushi to her. For a moment, she simply looked at her daughter. It still pained her to see the scars on Khushi's face, reminding her of the tragedy. She pulled Khushi in for a hug, giving her a tight squeeze. Khushi was confused by her mother's doings but she hugged her back.

"Are you okay Amma?"

Sumitra nodded and pulled back, wiping away her tears. "I just missed you, that's all."

Khushi smiled softly, wiping away her mother's tears. "I'm here now."

Sumitra nodded. "That you are," she smiled. "Tell me, how's everyone back there?"

"Papa is fine. Bhabi has become like my best friend and Maya is just a sweetheart. Adi bhai is like the brother I never had and Abhay-"

Khushi stopped herself and Sumitra looked at her curiously.

"Have you ever spoken to him," Sumitra asked.

"Not really," Khushi replied, her voice low. "He barely stays at the house, he has his own apartment that he stays at."

"Does he bother you?"

"No," she said, shaking her head. "He rarely acknowledges me, which makes sense given that he's barely home."

"Hmm.... And what about you and Arnav?"

Khushi looked at her mother.

"By the looks of things... I'm assuming you two have yet to consummate this marriage."

"Amma!" Blush came flooding into Khushi's cheeks.

"What? I am your mother after all."

Khushi shook her head. "I don't want to hear you say that ever again."

"Okay fine, as you wish. But as your mother, I have to ask - are you happy with him Khushi?"

Khushi looked down. She thought of all the time she had spent with Arnav, of all the moments she had shared with him. "I am."

Sumitra sighed. "Then that's all that matters." She placed a kiss on Khushi's forehead. "So long as you're happy, that's all that matters to me. And hopefully some day, I pray, you will fall in love with him."

Khushi looked up at her mother, and then down at her hands.

"Unless... you already have?"

Khushi glanced at her and then looked away.

"Oh, laado...." Sumitra caressed her daughter's cheek in her hand. "Have you told him?"

Khushi shook her head.

"Why not?"

At first, Khushi said nothing and then looked up at her mother. "Amma, I... how can I Amma? With this face- I just-" Khushi turned away and sighed. "Who could ever love me?"

"Khushi, don't say that, you're a beautiful girl-"

"Was Amma. Was a beautiful girl. Now I'm a monster."

"Hush, don't say that! You're still as beautiful as you once were."

"How," Khushi asked, flipping around to her. "How, Amma, how? Not with these scars! Not with this face, not with this body! It's a wonder how he can even be looking at me!"

"Don't say that Khushi. Arnav is a very sweet man, and it's obvious how much he cares about you. In fact, I would even say that he loves you."

Khushi scoffed. "Right, sure he does."

"I think he does Khushi, I really do. You mustn't doubt yourself."

Khushi rolled her eyes, a tear escaping and rolling down her cheek. Sumitra hated to see her baby girl like this, so she pulled her into her arms.

"I wish you would realize how beautiful you are, laado. Truly, I wish you would."

Chapter Fourteen

Unlike last time, where the two had been awkward from their encounter, this time there was none of it. At breakfast later that day, the two passed a few glances and a few soft smiles at each other - something that the whole family had noticed.

Even Abhay, who had come home early that morning. Abhay would come home now and then from his apartment and his father never said a word about it. Although he was happy that the relationship between Arnav and Khushi was going well, he was still disappointed by his middle son's behavior on that night. But Sameer felt no need to talk about it because it was pointless. Khushi was now married to Arnav and that was all that mattered, so there was no point in arguing when she was now his other son's wife.

*~*

Arnav's high school reunion was on the upcoming Saturday and Arnav decided that he would go with Khushi, due to Sheetal's persistence. Although Khushi was happy about it, she was nervous. Not because it was the first time the couple would be going out in public, but because she was afraid of what people would think of her face. There was no doubt about it, she knew people were going to judge her the moment they saw her. She just didn't know if she could tolerate being an embarrassment to Arnav.

Saturday arrived sooner than expected, and both Arnav and Khushi headed of to the reception hall the reunion would take place. Khushi's nerves were still on edge and she didn't know how to she was going to deal with it. When the couple arrived, they went to the desk right by the entrance of the hall and received passes. While Khushi received a guest pass, Arnav received one with his name and his yearbook photo on it. Khushi had seen the photo before, several times at the house, and thought that Arnav still looked the same, only much more mature and with facial hair. One thing for sure, he was still as handsome as he was back then.

Entering the hall Khushi glanced around. There were quite a number of people around and as Khushi had expected, the moment people's eyes met her, their expressions gave away what Khushi worried about the most. 

"Hey! Arnav!" 

Both Arnav and Khushi turned to see Sheetal coming their way and Khushi felt instantly insecure. As she came closer to them, Khushi took in the sight of Sheetal's silver mini dress. It was off-the-shoulders and full sleeve, and it looked like she had wrapped herself up in silver spandex enough to show off her long legs and silver stilettos. Khushi glanced down at the red sari she wore and felt her heart pit. 

"Hey you guys! Isn't the place just looking fab?"

Khushi had to agree, it really did. The theme of the event was starlight night, stars and a crescent moon hanging down from the ceiling. They had made lamps to look like clouds, which put the perfect mood lighting for the setting.

"Does it look good," Sheetal asked nervously.

"Why wouldn't it? You were the one in charge of the decoration committee," Arnav said.

Khushi looked at Arnav and then at Sheetal. Sheetal let out a squeal and hugged Arnav, causing Khushi to feel jealous and insecure once more.

"Thanks yaar, means a lot," and she pulled back. "Now enjoy yourself and make sure Khushi doesn't get bored, okay? I'm gonna go mingle," and she left the couple to themselves.

Khushi held her hands together and looked down at the ground. Arnav glanced around and found an empty table for them to sit at and led her there. A server passed by, offering them some hors d'oeuvres, another offering drinks. As they ate, Khushi glanced around and looked at Arnav in confusion.

"What's wrong," Arnav asked, noticing her expression.

Khushi shook her head. "It's nothing, just.... Aren't you going to say hi to your friends?"

"Um... well...."

Khushi noticed the way Arnav's cheeks heated up, and she became curious.

"See, the truth is... I didn't really associate with many people in high school. I was more of a loner, well, except for hanging out with Sheetal. I just wasn't interested in anything."

"Oh?"

"High school wasn't my thing," Arnav shrugged. "It was just loaded with drama, no matter where you looked. I just didn't care for that kind of nonsense."

"Really?"

Arnav slightly arched his eyebrow at Khushi's tone.

"Sounds kind of boring," Khushi teased playfully, not knowing where any of it was coming from.

What am I doing, she exclaimed in her head.

"Is that so," Arnav smirked lightly, leaning back in his chair as he crossed his arms. "Well then, what about you?"

That sudden burst of confidence Khushi had, faded away. "Me," she gulped.

Arnav nodded. "Tell me about your days in high school."

"Uh... well...."

Arnav continued to look at her, waiting to hear what she had to say and Khushi gulped.

"Um... well I went to much rather smaller high school than yours. Everyone basically knew each other, it was difficult not to know one another, given our little town that we lived in. And since everyone knew each other, it was kind of hard to avoid the drama that came with high school," Khushi chuckled lightly.

"Oh?"

"Mm hmm - it was just impossible. My best friend and I always seemed to find ourselves caught in it, whether we were involved or not."

"Who's your best friend?"

"Her name is Payal. She was at the wedding actually, and she's also my cousin."

Arnav nodded in acknowledgement. "So I'm assuming that if we were to go to your high school reunion, there would be a number of people that you would be saying hi to?"

"Yes-!"

Khushi looked down at her lap and Arnav looked at her in confusion.

"What's wrong," he asked.

Khushi shook her head. "Nothing," she said softly.

Khushi looked away and Arnav could see that she was upset. At first he couldn't understand why, but then he did. So he reached out and took her hand in his, making Khushi meet her eyes with his.

"Talk to me," he said softly.

For a moment, Khushi said nothing, looking into his eyes in surprise. She could see that he meant it and that he wouldn't push her. His eyes were genuine, showing that he cared, and Khushi was surprised by it - not in a bad way, but she was still surprised. She looked down at their joined hands and then she looked down at her lap.

"I don't think I could face those people again," Khushi nearly whispered. "Not like this."

"Why not?"

Khushi looked up at him.

"You're still you Khushi. Regardless of what happened, you're still you."

Khushi looked back down.

Arnav reached out and caressed her cheek. He tilted her face up to him and Khushi looked up at him, her eyes slightly wide.

"There's nothing to be afraid of Khushi. If you're worried those people would judge you, then they were never your friends to begin with. But if they are, they'll accept you however you are, just like I do."

Khushi was shocked - not just because of his words, but because of how was holding her face, out here, in public.

Arnav glanced over her shoulders and then back at her. "It looks like they're serving dinner already. Hungry?"

Khushi snapped out of her thoughts and nodded.

"Great, I wanna get out of here as quick as possible," he chuckled lightly. "And make sure that when we do, Sheetal doesn't notice us. She'll kill me if she does."

By the mentioning of her name, Khushi felt something within her bubble. "Okay."

The couple stood up and made their way to get food. They quickly ate and with careful watch, the two sneaked away, avoiding Sheetal. When they arrived home, it was pretty late, so everyone was already in bed. Normally Khushi would get her wounds treated before bed, but since they had plans to be out late, she had it done before they went to the event.

Ready and settled for bed, both Arnav and Khushi laid down, the lights turned off.

"I'm sorry the reunion was boring," Arnav said.

Khushi shook her head. "I don't mind."

"Hmm... well, if there's ever a college reunion, I promise that'll be more... eventful."

"Oh?" Khushi turned to her side, facing Arnav.

Arnav turned to her as well. "Yeah. Unlike me in high school, I had a little more fun in college."

"A little or a little," Khushi teased.

Again, Khushi didn't know where it came from.

Arnav chuckled. "Okay, I guess a little. But nothing too crazy."

"And what's too crazy?"

"Hmm, good question."

Khushi couldn't help herself but to giggle and Arnav found himself stunned. He couldn't remember a time Khushi laughed like this, not this genuinely. Hearing it made something within him feel content.

"So high school was, as we used to say back then a dub..."

Arnav's eyebrows shot up.

"So what was college," Khushi asked, arching her eyebrow.

The corner of Arnav's lips curved up. He had never seen Khushi so relaxed before, and he liked it. For the first time in their marriage, he truly felt like he was now with the real Khushi.

"College was... well, it was full of booze," Arnav admitted.

"Ah, so there were drunken nights," Khushi grinned.

"More like blackout nights."

Khushi gasped. "No!"

Arnav nodded. "Too many parties, way too many parties. Especially all of those frat parties."

"It must have been fun for you, being in New York City all those years."

Arnav sighed and laid flat on his back. "It was. The reason why I went there was just to learn everything I needed for business so that I could help dad."

Khushi looked at him with a soft smile. "You love him so much, don't you?"

Arnav nodded. "After Ma passed away... everything I did was for him. We both lost something big in life, only it was harder for him. He really loved Ma, so it nearly broke him when she passed away."

"I heard papa had fallen ill?"

"Yeah... and I did whatever I could for him to get better. Ever since then I've stood by his side and supported him. I worked hard in school to make him proud of me, to bring a smile on his face. I did everything I could to help him, studied abroad so I could help his company."

"That's very admirable of you."

Arnav looked at her.

"I understand the feeling. I was very close bapusa and I did what I could to make him proud. I always took care of him, helped him... I wanted to make him proud."

Memories of her father flashed in Khushi's mind, as well as of her mother. The thought of them brought tears to her eyes and they rolled down her cheeks. But before she could wipe them away, Arnav reached out and did it for her, causing Khushi to look at him in shock.

"You must miss them."

Even though it wasn't a question, Khushi nodded.

"Talking with them on the phone every day must not be enough. How about we go visit them for a few days?"

Khushi's eyes widened. "Really?"

"Of course. After all, your parents are my parents now too, hmm?"

Khushi looked down and nodded.

Arnav reached out and caressed her cheek, tilting it up so that she would look at him. He didn't say anything, confusing Khushi.

"For the first time, I finally met the real Khushi tonight. And I quite like her."

Khushi's eyes widened.

"And I'd like to get to know her better."

Khushi didn't know what to say.

"I think the perfect way to do that is to take her back home, where she came from. So if you don't mind, I'd like to call bapusa tomorrow and ask him if it's okay if we come and visit for the week."

Khushi couldn't beleive what she was hearing. "Um... okay."

Arnav smiled softly and placed a tentative kiss on her forehead. "Go to sleep."

Letting her go, both got comfy, and Arnav dozed off first. As for Khushi, hard as she tried, she simply couldn't fall asleep - she was too stunned.

Khushi turned to her side, nuzzling into her pillow. 

Whoa.

Chapter Thirteen

It was safe to say that after the encounter in their bedroom, both Arnav and Khushi were now in an awkward state. Neither knew what to say nor what to do when they saw the other. Both felt slightly embarrassed of what had happened but to tell you the truth, neither regretted it.

Nope neither did, not one bit, especially not Arnav. One evening, as he sat out on the balcony, working on his laptop, he thought back to the first time he had met Khushi in the hospital. On that day, he didn't understand what it was that drew him to her so much. He still didn't understand what it was that when Khushi had agreed to marry him, had made him kiss her hand, as if he had known her for some time. But he had done it, and he had indeed done more within the time span of their marriage.

Snapping out of his thoughts, Arnav looked back into the room. Khushi still wasn't here and Arnav was curious as to where she was, so he got up to look for her. As he walked down the hall and made his way downstairs, Arnav heard her voice and headed to the family room. There, he saw his sister in-law, Khushi, and his niece sitting in Khushi's lap. Maya was smiling away as she blabbered on about her day at pre-school and Khushi listened with complete interest. It was a rather pleasant sight for Arnav to see, seeing how happy Khushi was.

Maybe someday Khushi will be this happy with our child- our child?!

Arnav couldn't believe the thought that had crossed his mind. Nowhere was he and Khushi that close, so he was amazed at the thought of the two of them having a child.

I'm getting ahead of myself.

"Arnav!"

Both Khushi and Mona looked up as Arnav turned around at the sound of Sheetal's voice.

"Hey bud, what're you up to," Sheetal grinned.

"I'm fine, I was just taking a break from work."

"You and your work," Sheetal huffed. "Do you ever take a break?"

Arnav rolled his eyes.

Sheetal looked past Arnav and saw the others. "Hi Bhabi, hi Khushi!"

She entered the room and went over to the ladies. Arnav took this opportunity and entered the room, going over to Khushi. Khushi noticed him as he got closer and just as her brain was about to enter panic mode, Arnav knelt down in front of her and played with Maya. Khushi immediately relaxed and then wondered why all of sudden she felt panicked by Arnav coming close to her, as if he hadn't been closer to her than that before.

Khushi looked up at Arnav through her lashes. Maya had moved out of her lap and into Arnav's, holding his face as she told him about what she did at pre-school earlier today. The way Arnav paid attention to her every word, made Khushi's heart blossom.

If we had a daughter- a daughter?!

Khushi glanced around, making sure that she hadn't voiced her own thoughts and by the looks of things, she hadn't. She turned her attention back to Arnav and Maya.

I'm getting way too ahead of myself.

From the corner of her eyes, Khushi noticed Sheetal and looked at her. She watched Sheetal look at Arnav with admiration and she turned her attention back to Arnav, who was nuzzling Maya.

The way she's looking at him... maybe I did come in between the two.

Feeling her heart pit, Khushi got up.

Mona looked up at her. "Khushi, what's wrong?"

Khushi shook her head. "Nothing Bhabi, I'm just gonna go check up on dinner."

Mona nodded and Khushi left, Arnav glancing at her as she left.

Khushi entered the kitchen and leaned against the wall.

Why did this have to happen to me? Why did I have to fall for someone who can't be mine, who is already taken?

Tears brimmed in Khushi's eyes, and she quickly shut them and tried to make them go away.

I never should have agreed to marry him.

*~*

Sheetal had stayed over for dinner and through it's entirety, Khushi had watched as she and Arnav were animated in conversation, whether it was about work or something else. Later on the two had disappeared upstairs to discuss some work things and Khushi stayed downstairs. She distracted herself with Mona and Maya, but soon enough it was time for her to go upstairs for her dressing.

As the nurse worked away, Khushi thought back to that day and the moment she had shared with Arnav. She remembered the way his eyes were glued to her, refusing to drop. She remembered the touch of his fingertips against her flesh. She remembered the feel of his soft lips on her and the way he nibbled her neck. She remembered all of it.

"Are you okay Khushi?"

"Hmm?"

Khushi snapped out of her trance, turning her attention back to the nurse.

"You seem distracted."

Khushi shook her head. "It's nothing really."

The nurse nodded. "Okay," and she went back to her work. "I think it's still sweet that your husband respects you and gives you privacy during your dressings. Most men don't have that kind of courtesy anymore."

Khushi simply hummed in response.

"He must really respect you, care for you."

Does he care for me? Or does he care more about Sheetal?

The thought of them still being together, even if they were talking about work, made Khushi slightly jealous. She felt slightly silly because she knew the two were best friends, but still, she couldn't help it.

The nurse finished up and left the room. With a sigh, Khushi changed into her nightwear and got into bed, grabbing her book. Not long later, Arnav returned. The two looked at each other for a moment, but didn't speak a word. Arnav changed up into his PJs and got into his side of the bed, laptop in hand. Both stayed silent, not saying a single word and focusing on what they were doing.

It was only some time later when a ringing went off. It was Sheetal calling Arnav on video chat, and Arnav took the call.

"Hey Arnav, did I disturb you," she said.

"No, I was going through some emails. What's up?"

"In all the talk about the Thailand thing, I completely forgot to mention something."

"What?"

"I was going to ask you if you got the email about our high school reunion?"

High school reunion? Now this had caught Khushi's attention.

"I just saw it," Arnav sighed.

"Well, are you going?"

"Come on Sheetal, you know how I feel about these things."

"Oh come on, stop being such a bore! You should totally go! And take Khushi with you!"

Khushi looked up from her novel and glanced at the screen before looking up at Arnav, who was already looking at her.

"You should totally go, it could be like your couple's debut or something."

"I don't know," Arnav said, looking back to the screen.

"Think about it. I know I'm going, you guys should totally come. Besides, if you don't I'm gonna end up being so bored yaar," she pouted.

"Alright, I'll think about it and let you know."

"Great! See you tomorrow at the office," and she disconnected the call.

Arnav shut his laptop and got up to put it on his desk, and Khushi shut her book and placed it on the bedside table. She laid down and turned to her side, and Arnav returned and shut the lights off. Khushi felt him as he laid down, but didn't say anything.

"I normally don't go to these types of things," Arnav suddenly said. "But if you want, then we could go."

Khushi looked down. "It's your reunion," she said softly. "If you don't want to go, then we don't have to."

"Hmm."

Neither said anything else and slowly dosed off into sleep. As the night progressed, like many nights before, the two slowly made their way closer to the other and woke up in each other's arms. Only this time, it was Arnav who woke up first.

The first thing Arnav saw that morning was Khushi's serene face, nuzzled into him as her fragile hand clenched onto his shirt. She looked so at peace that Arnav didn't want to move, afraid of awaking her. He simply laid there and gazed at her, his hand reaching up and running through her long dark locks. A few moments passed when suddenly, Khushi's face contorted. Arnav looked at her curiously as her grip on his shirt tightened. She muttered a few words, but Arnav couldn't make it out. She began to whimper and mumbled some more, her body beginning to shake a little.

"Arnav," he heard her mumble softly.

What the?

"Arnav," she repeated.

Her grip tightened even more as she began to look panicked. Little beads of sweat formed on her forehead and she whimpered even louder, his name pouring from her lips a few times more.

"Arnav!"

"Hush Khushi, I'm here," he soothed.

Arnav brought his hand to her cheek and caressed it. "I'm right here Khushi, it's okay."

Khushi's face scrunched up even more, as the look of pain spread across her face. "Arnav!"

"I'm right Khushi, I'm right here, it's just a bad dream, I'm right here."

Khushi grunted and groaned and with a small cry, her eyes flew open. She looked lost, as if she were in a haze.

Arnav caressed her cheek and tilted it up to him. "Khushi, are you okay?"

Khushi's eyes met his and Arnav could see fear flash before them. She began to shudder as tears swelled in her eyes, and she buried her face in his neck.

Arnav was shocked. He couldn't figure out what it was that could have made Khushi this upset, what it was that she had dreamt of to have her crying like this.

"Khushi? Khushi, it's okay, it was just a bad a dream," Arnav cajoled. "Everything's alright, I'm right here. It was just a bad dream."

He ran his fingers through her hair to comfort her, and allowed her to calm herself on her own. With a sniffle, Khushi pulled back, though she looked down. Arnav pulled back a little so he could reach over to the bedside table and pour a glass of water for Khushi. Arnav handed the glass to her and the two sat there in quiet as Khushi guzzled the entire glass down. Arnav took the empty glass from her and placed it aside before turning back to her.

"Are you okay," Arnav asked.

Khushi nodded, looking down at her lap.

"You want to tell me about it," he said softly.

Khushi remained quiet, not saying a word. Arnav didn't say anything either, giving her the moment she needed.

"I... I dreamt that I was in the fire again," Khushi nearly whispered.

Arnav's eyes widened. In all the time they had been married, never had Khushi had a nightmare about her accident. "You... want to tell me about it?"

Khushi gulped, looking down at her entangled hands. She stayed quiet once more, but Arnav patiently waited, giving her the moment she needed.

"There was fire everywhere - everywhere I turned, there was fire. I didn't know which way to go, how to escape.... No one else was there. At least, at first there was no one... but then I saw you."

Arnav didn't say anything, wanting to hear the rest of it.

"When I was trying to find a way out, I found you... I found you lying on the g-ground," she stuttered.

Arnav's eyes widened.

"Y-you were out unconscious. I tried calling out your name, I tried to wake you b-but...." Khushi trembled slightly and hugged herself. "The fire was getting worse and spreading. It was getting hotter, harder to breathe. I tried so hard to wake you but... b-but you wouldn't and-"

Khushi broke into tears and began to cry. Seeing her like this, pained Arnav, so he wrapped his arms around her.

"Hush, it's okay. I'm right here Khushi, that was nothing but a bad dream."

"I know," she cried. "But the fire... you wouldn't wake up, it was everywhere, and... and," and she cried harder.

Arnav soothed her even more, holding her in his arms as he ran his fingers through her hair.

"I thought I lost you to the flames," she cried.

"Never Khushi, never." He caressed her cheeks and tilted her face up to his. "I'm right here Khushi, I'm right here for you."

Khushi pursed her lips and nodded, looking down. Arnav held her against him as she cried once more, cajoling her.

"I promised to protect you Khushi, and I always will; nothing will change that."

Khushi looked up at him.

"Nothing will happen to me and I will keep you safe, okay?"

With a gulp, Khushi nodded.

Both looked at each other for a moment. Even if the two had gotten close together before, it was nothing like this. Last time there was some sensuality to it, but this time was completely different. This time, the feelings were caring and genuine. And so when Khushi noticed Arnav bringing his lips closer to her, she didn't feel hesitant whatsoever. And when his lips met her forehead, she truly felt his words were genuine and that he meant it when he said he would protect her, forever.

Chapter Twelve

Everything seemed better- no! Everything was better. It's strange how it was, but everything was simply better. All because Khushi had realized that she was falling in love with her husband, Arnav Singh Raizada. At first she was surprised with herself. She never expected herself to fall in love with Arnav, given the conditions that had led to their marriage. Yes, she did think he was attractive - it would be stupid to think otherwise - but it was never about the physicality of a man that mattered too much to Khushi, but of their heart. But after all the time she had spent around her husband, she began to realize that he truly did have a heart, and they weren't just words her bhabi had told her.

Khushi found herself unable to stop thinking about her husband. It seemed that everything would somehow lead her back to the thought of him. And for the first time in their marriage, Khushi wanted Arnav to come home, desperately.

It was around 5:30 when the men came home, it being Friday and the Raizada men desperate for the weekend, and not having to think of work during that time.

"Khushi?"

Khushi knew her father in law was craving his tea, so she had it prepared and waiting for him. She walked into the living room with a tray in hand with all the men's tea, when Khushi paused.

In came Arnav, grinning from end to end as he laughed, with his arm wrapped around a woman, who was smiling up at him. Khushi felt her heart pit at the sight of them as they sat down together.

"You are unbelievable," Arnav said to the woman.

"Yeah right," she grinned back, and Arnav rolled his eyes.

Khushi quickly overcame her shock and placed the tray down on table and began to pour tea into the teacups.

"You two will forever be like children," Sameer said, shaking his head. "Khushi, this is Sheetal," he said, taking the cup of tea from Khushi. "She's Arnav's best friend since childhood."

Oh?

Khushi smiled at her and Sheetal reached her hand out.

"Nice to finally meet you Khushi. I'm sorry I couldn't be at the wedding, I only got back to the country 2 days ago."

Khushi shook hands with her and poured her some tea as well, before giving Aditya and Arnav their tea. As everyone sipped away on their tea and spoke, Khushi learned more of Sheetal. She, too, was in business and had been away in Austria for business, as well as France. Arnav and Sheetal had first met around 4th grade and have been very good friends ever since.

That much was very evident to Khushi, as she could see the way her husband smiled at his friend. There was a connection between the two, very deep. Khushi couldn't help herself but to wonder how a beautiful girl like Sheetal didn't end up becoming Arnav's bride.

Or was she supposed to be?

Arnav knew everything about Sheetal and Sheetal knew everything about Arnav. Arnav was handsome, and she was beautiful. The two got along perfectly well, so how is it that the two weren't married instead?

Maybe she loves him. Maybe he loves her. Why wouldn't he? She's so beautiful and I'm... I'm a monster.

The thought brought tears to Khushi's eyes, so she quickly took the used cups and tray back to the kitchen. She tried hard to keep her mind away from the two, but alas, her mind had mind of its own. She couldn't help but think how perfect Arnav's and Sheetal's relationship was and how she was the outsider that came in between them.

I knew it was too good to be true. Me in love with someone like Arnav. She scoffed. As if I had chance! 

Khushi caught her reflection on a mirrored tray. Her hands reached up on their own over her two scars.

Who could ever love a monster like me?

*~*

Sheetal had left not long later and Khushi needed to go up to their room so the nurse could treat her scars. They were healing, and it wasn't always necessary to have bandages over them, but treating them was. So Khushi was simply in her petticoat as the nurse treated her wounds.

"Your hair has gotten quite long," the nurse commented.

"Yes, it has. I've never had such long hair before, but I like it."

Khushi had her hair draped in front of her shoulders so that it didn't get in the way for the nurse as she treated her back.

"Well it's absolutely lovely."

The nurse finished treating Khushi's burns and left the room. Khushi knew she needed to get back downstairs so that she could make sure dinner was ready, but she wanted to take a moment to relax. In the old days, before the accident, one thing Khushi found very freeing was having a moment to herself, alone in her room, naked. It may seem odd to others but for her, it was as if every weight had lifted off of her, down to lightest string. Even though she had her petticoat on, she still felt rather free, and stood there for a moment with her eyes shut, taking in even breaths.

But little did she know that Arnav was waiting for the nurse to leave so he could work on his computer. As soon as he saw her leave, Arnav thought that as usual, Khushi was done with her dressing, so he headed upstairs. And like every other day, he entered the room without knocking, charging right in. Only this time, unlike every other day, he found his wife half naked.

As soon as the door had opened, Khushi's eyes shot open and she gasped. From the corner of her eyes, she could see from the mirror that it was Arnav, and he had halted right in his tracks. His eyes were on her, and she didn't know that because she could see it, but because oddly enough, she could feel it. Luckily for her, her back was facing him so he couldn't see anything, not even from the mirror because her hair was covering her front.

But Arnav's eyes were focused on one thing in particular - her scars. Three big scars ran on her body, his eyes following along each of them - one going from her back to her waist; another right above it going from her mid-back to her breast; and the third above that, running over to her shoulder. Seeing those three big scars angered Arnav - it angered him how his brother had been so cruel and denied to marry Khushi because of it. It angered him that Khushi had gone through so much pain, when a kindhearted woman like her didn't even deserve it.

Arnav walked towards her and Khushi noticed it in the mirror. She froze, unsure of what to do, nor of what was to come.

Stay calm Khushi, stay calm!

As Arnav got closer to her, the sight of the scars hurt him even more. The thought of how much pain Khushi must've been through, pained him. When he stopped behind her, Khushi shut her eyes, unsure of what he was going to do. Arnav reached up to the lowest scar and traced it with his thumb. Khushi pursed her lips, forcing herself to stop her from gasping. Feeling his warmth against her cool skin was electric, and Khushi wanted more.

Arnav reached up and traced the middle scar, Khushi forcing back a gulp. Because her arm was down, Arnav couldn't trace the scar all the way around, so he moved to the top one. This time, Khushi couldn't hold back her gasp. Her body shuddered as Arnav traced the scar all the way to her shoulder. But while she felt pleasure, Arnav felt pain. He wanted to soothe her, so he stepped closer to her, brushed her hair aside over her other shoulder, and placed a kiss where the scar ended on her shoulder. Khushi let out a tiny moan, clenching her hands together in front of her. Arnav placed his hands on her waist and continued to place soft kisses on her shoulder absentmindedly. Khushi couldn't understand why he was doing this, but she couldn't complain - she loved it. She loved the feeling he was giving her. And as Arnav's lips met her neck, Khushi truly realized it then.

She wanted him.

She wrapped her arms around her, placing her hands over his. Arnav continued to kiss and nuzzle her neck, nibbling here and there. Khushi felt pleasure she had never experienced before and had only dreamed of! But the reality of it was that dreams could never match up to the level of intensity reality had.

Khushi felt him bite down on her flesh and she squeezed his hands. "Arnav," she moaned.

"I will never let anyone or anything ever hurt you again," he whispered against her.

Khushi's eyes shot open at his declaration. It stunned her - how a man she didn't know for long wanted to protect her from further harm, and was willing to make a vow on it.

Does he... does Arnav love me as I love him?

"Arnav, I l-"

A knock at the door suddenly catapulted them back to reality. "Arnav, Khushi, dinner is almost ready," Mona called out.

Khushi tried hard to find her voice, but it was lost with her brain which was scattered across the room.

"We'll be down soon," Arnav responded, and Mona left.

For a moment, neither said anything, stuck in their position. Khushi was unsure of what to do nor what to say, and before she could it figure it out Arnav pulled back and retrieved her blouse from the bed.

"Here," he said, holding it open for her.

It should be noted that because of how constricting bra bands were, that Khushi didn't wear bra as often. Thankfully some of her blouses came with cups or padding, so she never looked inappropriate. The blouse she was about wear however, held her breasts just fine and gave it a proper shape without any padding. So Khushi slipped her arms into the full-sleeve blouse and hooked on the hooks while Arnav picked up the two strings on the back and tied them.

"I'll meet you downstairs."

"Okay," Khushi nearly whispered.

As soon as Arnav left the room, Khushi let out her breath and sat on the bed.

Holy DM!

Chapter Eleven

Sunlight came shining into the room, awakening Khushi. She truly did not feel like waking up, and buried her face deeper into Arnav.

Wait, what?

Khushi's eyes shot open and she looked right into Arnav's neck. She slightly pulled back, looking up at a sleeping Arnav. He looked very peaceful in his sleep, a soft smile playing on his lips.

I wonder what he's dreaming about?

Khushi realized that once again, in the middle of the night, they had found their way to the other. His arm was protectively draped over her and her hand rested itself on his chest. And so, like every other morning, Khushi tried to get out of his hold. But like every other morning, her one little move, would cause Arnav to wake up.

His eyes fluttered open and landed right on Khushi, causing Khushi to hold her breath. She gulped as she looked into his eyes. No matter how many times this had happened, Khushi always found herself stunned. And no matter how many times this had happened, Arnav found it always hard to look away from her.

Without a thought, Arnav reached up and caressed her cheek. Khushi shut her eyes to his embrace, her nerves beginning to shoot up. Something was different - it felt different, but Khushi had no idea what it was. It didn't seem likely for her to find out because what did she know that by simply wearing a sari in his favorite color, could have such an affect on him.

Arnav looked her up and down, admiring the red fabric on her body. It looked beautiful against her skin tone, and Arnav found himself feeling more and more attracted to her by the second. His hand left her cheek and traced down her body, causing Khushi to shudder and let out a soft moan. The sound echoed in Arnav's ears, turning something on inside of him. He slowly laid her on her back and moved over her, Khushi now feeling her nerves shooting up doubly fast!

Khushi's eyes remained shut as her chest heaved, her breasts brushing against Arnav's chest. Her lips were slightly parted and Arnav found himself desperate to kiss her, like he was stranded in the desert and she was his only source of nourishment. He brought his lips closer to hers and just as his lips brushed against her soft, pink, plump lips - his phone went off.

Both turned their attention to the phone, rumbling as it rang and vibrated. Arnav looked down at Khushi and could see how panicked she looked.

What have I done?

Arnav moved off of her and took his phone out to the balcony to take his call. Khushi took this moment to catch her breath, and quickly dashed to the wardrobe to get her clothes, and charged right into the bathroom.

Holy cow, what just happened," she screamed in her head as she washed up and got ready. Did we just-? Were we about to-? ...what?!

Her mind was rambling with questions, but she couldn't deal with this right now; she needed to go downstairs to help with breakfast. When Khushi opened the door and reentered the bedroom, she could still hear Arnav talking on the phone. Taking this as her chance, Khushi dashed out of the room and headed downstairs tot the kitchen. Her mind continued to wander, even though she begged for it to stop.

"Good morning Khushi!"

"Huh?"

Khushi flinched out of thought and looked at Mona, who was looking at her questioningly.

"Are you okay Khushi?"

"Yeah, yeah, I'm fine, yeah, totally."

Mona found her response to be very strange, but seeing how flustered she looked, an idea of what could be the problem popped into her head, and she knew her devar was involved - especially because of the blush on Khushi's cheeks. So she decided to leave the poor girl alone and not tease her.

With the last of breakfast placed on the table, everyone was already gathered together, except for Arnav. Khushi wondered where he was, and as the thought of him crossed his mind, Arnav came into the room and Khushi gulped.

Not because of what had happened earlier this morning, but because of how fucking hot her husband looked.

Point to be noted, those were Khushi's exact thoughts.

Oh my... since when was he always this gorgeous?

It was strange to Khushi, how all of a sudden she was becoming very aware of the man she called her husband. All these weeks together, and never did she really notice much. And yet between yesterday and today, she had noticed so much than she had all these weeks.

The same could be said for Arnav.

As he entered the dining room and took his seat, his eyes landed on Khushi and once again, he found himself stunned. He wasn't sure if she realized that she was once again wearing a sari in his favorite color. And he hoped that she didn't realize the affect she was having on him, nor anyone else, for that matter. Otherwise, that would have been very embarrassing.

And he didn't want anyone to think he was still in his teens, when he clearly wasn't.

If you haven't figured out what that means, go back to sex ed 😀

The two didn't say anything to the other during breakfast, not trying to face any awkwardness or embarrassment from earlier. And as soon as breakfast was complete, Arnav got up to leave to the office, and Khushi took in a breath of relief.

Only, that was cut short.

Khushi had gone back up to their room to ease her racing heart, when the room filled up with the sound of Arnav's ringtone. She realized then that Arnav had forgotten his phone.

Should I take this to him? Should I contact him at the office and let him know? Or should I ask bhabi? Then again she might ask questions.

She decided to head downstairs and call Arnav from the landline to his office phone. But little did Khushi know that Arnav had realized that he had forgotten his phone and was already on his way home.

Just like that, the scene was set - Khushi was heading down the stairs and Arnav was coming up the front steps. Just as Khushi got to the bottom step, Arnav entered the house. And just like that, in the blink of an eye, the two bumped into each other, and Arnav quickly got hold of her, pulling her into his arms.

Khushi looked up at him, wide-eyed, as Arnav gazed down at her. Once again, that temptation to kiss her, had formed. He found his hand moving up on its own again, caressing her cheek. Khushi found it difficult to breathe again, her grip on him tightening as her nerves shot up.

But fortunately - or unfortunately, yet to be determined - Arnav's ever so screaming phone began to scream again, snapping the two back to reality. They shot away from the other and Khushi quickly held out his phone to him. Arnav took it and took the call.

"Yeah. ...hmm... okay... we'll talk when I get back to the office," and he hung up.

Arnav looked at Khushi, who was holding her hands together and looking down at the ground, blushing.

"Um... sorry, and he left.

Khushi looked up at his retreating back, her eyes widened. Sorry?

"Oh my gosh!!!"

Khushi's eyes widened at the sound of Mona's shrilling and praying that her bhabi hadn't seen any of it, she slowly turned to her. But the second she saw Mona's face, it was evident that indeed her bhabi had seen it all.

"That was so cute," Mona shrieked. "The way you two bumped into each other like TV series, and the way he held you? Hai!"

Khushi blushed tomato red, looking anywhere but at Mona.

"And he said sorry, how sweet!"

"Sweet," she questioned, and she bit her tongue.

Mona smirked and Khushi wanted to fade away than face the embarrassment. She went to Khushi and took her hand, and had her sit down next to her on the sofa.

"I told you my devar was sweetie. He felt bad for putting you in such a awkward position, so he apologized."

Khushi looked up at Mona. He didn't say it because he regretted it?

And that thought made Khushi pause. Why did she all of sudden care of Arnav had any feelings towards. Why did she suddenly care so much to the point where she would've felt hurt if Arnav had regretted his actions towards her.

"Looks like someone is falling in love," Mona sang softly.

Khushi's eyes met hers.

"Something must have triggered it. Maybe seeing you in his favorite color?"

Khushi looked down at her red sari. That's right, bhabi did say this was his favorite color. But I've worn this color before, right?Or have I not? Doubt that's possible....

"Well whatever it is, it's quite evident that my devar has some feelings for you," she winked.

Khushi blushed and looked down.

"And it's about time!"

With that, Mona got up and left Khushi to her thoughts.

Is he really? Is he really beginning to have feelings for me?

Memories of earlier this morning came to mind, and Khushi remembered feeling the hardness of his chest against her breasts, and the feeling of his lips brushed against hers. The memory had her fingers reaching her lips and blush spread through her cheeks.

Am I beginning to fall in love with Arnav?

Chapter Ten

Even if he was supposed to be taking a day off, Arnav could't help himself but to focus on work - at least, in the morning. After having lunch, however, he decided to invest his time in the gym. With the stress and amount of time being put into the Thailand project, Arnav hadn't been able to give the gym his time. Now that he had the day to himself, he decided to take advantage of it.

And so he did, for hours on. He had been so invested in it, that he had lost track of time. It was around 8 when Khushi had gone looking for him, having seen him head towards the gym earlier.

Now, it should be noted that Arnav was built. It was evident by any person who saw him, especially with the ladies. Bulging muscles, defined chest and abs, and of course - a firm butt. Ladies gawked at the sight of him! So months back, when Arnav had chosen to marry her, Khushi couldn't figure out for the life of her how a beautiful man like him could want to marry, in her words, "a burned woman with a scorched face" like her. And once again, seeing that man drenched in sweat as he did the salmon ladder, made her question everything in life once more.

Of course, after the shock had passed.

It wasn't everyday you saw a man doing the salmon ladder. Khushi probably wouldn't have even known what that even was if she didn't watch Arrow on TV. It always amazed her seeing Stephen Amell doing it on TV, but discovering that he husband could do it, well, it simply left her mind blank.

Arnav noticed Khushi and he dropped down from the bar. That was when Khushi's brain had snapped back into motion, rushing her thoughts past her for the moments it was clogged, before quickly returning to its proper functions.

"I-I just came in to let you know that it's 8," Khushi said.

Arnav nodded, reaching for his water bottle. As Arnav chugged on his water, Khushi couldn't help herself but to give him a full look-over.

And I'm actually married to this guy? For about 7 weeks now? Can't be!

Khushi looked away before he gawking mind decided to continue to gawk at him and be caught. Normally, Khushi would see him suited up for the office or in casual wear or PJs. For the first time in their 7ish weeks of marriage was Khushi now face-to-face with a shirtless Arnav... and it made her slightly uncomfortable. Not because she didn't want to see it - heavens no! But because of what it was doing to her.

Unfortunately, the way Arnav saw it, he thought she was making her feel uncomfortable. It made him feel bad, putting her in uncomfortable situation, so he reached over for his sleeveless hoodie and popped it on. And while he thought he was doing something helpful for Khushi, Khushi's brain pleaded for him to take it off.

"Is everyone still out," Arnav asked.

"Bhabi called; she said she's on her way home, there's just a lot of traffic. And Papa should be home soon with Bhai."

"And Abhay is still at his apartment... cool."

Arnav picked up his phone and held his arm out, gesturing for Khushi to go first. So she left gym with Arnav behind her, and for each step she took, her level of awareness on how hot and sweaty Arnav was, increased. No she wasn't bothered by it, but she felt rather drawn to it. She didn't understand why, but it was as if their was this electrical hum, drawing her towards him. In all these weeks together, Khushi always avoided any attractions, given that she didn't know the man. Now, weeks later after sleeping beside and waking up in his arms, the level of attraction had gone from 0 to 100, real quick.

"Khushi!"

Khushi paused and looked up to see Mona with numerous bags in her hands, but Arnav had been looking at his phone, and bumped into her. Before she went crashing down, Arnav quickly caught and pulled her to him, her chest colliding into his. Mona gasped and covered her face with her hands, her eyes wide as she watched the two gazed into each others eyes.

It should be noted that while Mona felt the urge to shriek, Khushi felt like she had been shocked by a bolt of lightening. She couldn't remove her eyes from Arnav, her nerves beginning to shoot all over the place from nervousness. And with the way Arnav was looking at her....

Why is he looking at me like that? There's hundreds of beautiful women out there, nothing near as horrendous as I am. So then why? Why look at me in that way?

When the front doors opened and Sameer's and Aditya's voices took over the room, the two shot apart, feeling awkward and creating an awkward vibe in the air, which everyone else could feel.

"Is something wrong," Sameer asked in confusion.

"Nope," Mona answered. "But it seems like your youngest son here is a klutz," she snickered.

Arnav rolled his eyes, while Khushi looked away.

"Bumping into Khushi like that, really Arnav," Mona teased.

Khushi blushed and Arnav frowned at Mona.

"I'm not a klutz, I was looking at a business proposal-"

"Arnav there's a reason why I said to take the day off," Sameer frowned.

"I know dad, but-"

"But nothing. We've got it over at the office, and you can look at all the proposals and all the accounts you want tomorrow."

"Fine dad," Arnav sighed.

"Good. Now then, what's for dinner, I'm starving," the old man grinned.

"Go ahead and wash up Papa, I'll get dinner set up," Khushi smiled back.

"Perfect," and everyone headed off to their rooms to wash up for dinner.

Khushi headed upstairs real quick to take a quick shower and change, since Arnav had gotten her drenched in his sweat. Of course he apologized, but it was really nothing to apologize for. Not with what she had in mind.

*~*

Dinner was set, and everyone sat at the table, except for Khushi.

"Come on Khushi, you know the rule," Sameer said. "No one eats until the family is at the table, and with the way everything is smelling so good, I can't wait anymore!"

Khushi entered the dining room with a grin, setting down a platter full of jalebis before sitting down. Sameer reached out for a jalebi but when he caught sight of both Mona and Khushi frowning at him, he pulled his hand back.

"I'll never understand how you women can make an old man feel like a child," he pouted.

Both Khushi and Mona chuckled and high-fived each other. Everyone dug right in to dinner, talking about their day.

"I bought a few new saris today, but I must Khushi, the sari you're wearing right now is very beautiful," Mona said.

Arnav absolutely agreed. His present indeed looked amazing on Khushi and she looked absolutely beautiful.

"Thank you bhabi," Khushi smiled.

"No problem. You've never worn this before, have you?"

Khushi's eyes slightly widened and she glanced at Arnav. this action had not been missed by Mona, and she looked at her poor devar, who looked like he was about to be caught. She understood immediately, and hope beamed within her once more.

"It's very cute," she smiled.

Khushi attempted a smile, glancing back and forth between Arnav, Mona, and her plate. Thank goodness Mona hadn't pushed forward, or the awkwardness Khushi had felt would've hit the roof. And double thank goodness that they had moved off of the topic and to something else.

Once dinner was complete, Khushi passed the platter of jalebis to Sameer, who happily picked one up and munched right into it.

"Dad, stop acting like a child," Aditya frowned, though he was humored.

"Hush it and take a bite," Sameer scowled.

Everyone chuckled and Khushi revealed the other platter full of jalebis.

"Even more," Sameer grinned. "Amazing!"

Khushi couldn't help her smile. "Actually Papa, these are sugar-free."

Sameer's eyebrows shot up, as well as Mona's and Aditya's.

"Oh," was all the old man said.

Khushi placed the platter before Arnav and waited for him to take one. He glanced at her and everyone else - noting the eagerness in their faces - before picking a jalebi up. As soon as he took a bite, he could see the eagerness in his family increase, desperate for him to make a comment.

"It's good," he said.

"Good-good, or really good," Mona asked.

"Really good," he frowned at her, although his smile was evident.

Sameer chuckled. "You're gonna spoil us Khushi."

Khushi smiled with a soft blush and for some unknown reason why, Arnav felt tempted to kiss her.

What the? Where did that come from.

*~*

Later that night, once everything had been cleaned and put away, Khushi headed to their room. She found Arnav sitting at his desk, already changed into a t-shirt and PJs, working away on his computer.

"I hope you're not working."

Arnav looked up at her and Khushi's eyes widened.

Why did I say that? "Papa might find out," she quickly added.

Arnav smiled softly and leaned back in his chair. "I'm not, well, not exactly. Just checking a few emails."

Khushi nodded in acknowledgement. Before things got awkward, she headed to the wardrobe to retrieve her nightwear.

"Khushi?"

Khushi turned to him. "Hmm?"

"Thank you... for wearing the sari."

Khushi looked down at herself and back at him. "Thank you for the sari. Yellow is actually my favorite color," she said softly.

"I know."

Khushi's eyebrows met at the middle automatically.

"I figured it was, given the amount of yellow you wear. And then bhabi told me."

"Oh?"

He figured it out by himself that yellow is my favorite color? Because I wear it that much? Do I really? Hmm... never really thought about it.

"Um, it's a very beautiful sari," Khushi said.

"Thanks. Before buying this, I never realized how hard it was to buy a sari," he said, scratching the back of his head.

Khushi found his actions cute, and she immediately pressed the breaks on that thought.

"I was gonna have bhabi help me, but knowing her, I knew she wouldn't have made it easy. She likes to tease a lot," he quickly explained when Khushi looked at him in confusion.

Khushi nodded and the awkward vibe was coming back into the air. So before it took over, she quickly went to the bathroom to change. When she came out, Arnav was sitting on his side of the bed, on his phone. As Khushi headed to the vanity to comb through her hair, Arnav caught a glimpse of her from the corner of his eyes and looked up.

The sight of her made him freeze.

In all the weeks they had been married, never had Arnav felt this way. Maybe he simply didn't notice before - due to how busy he was with work - but seeing Khushi in her simple red sari, with her long hair flowing down her back, did things to him.

Has she never worn red before? No, I'm sure she has. Have I simply just not noticed before? 

While Arnav remained lost in his thoughts, Khushi was busy combing her long hair. During her accident, she had gotten really lucky that her hair hadn't caught on fire. Normally she kept her hair at mid-length, but after the surgery and treatments, Khushi had decided to leave her hair alone. She wanted it to grow out - that way her hair could cover her back and no one would see her burn marks.

Though Khushi had kept her hair long for those intentions, it didn't mean that Arnav thought of it that way.

When I first met her, her hair wasn't this long. But it looks lovely. And it always smells like vanilla.

He would know that very well, given the number of times he's woken up with his face nuzzled into Khushi's hair.

Just as Khushi was about to turn, Arnav flinched back to his phone, as if he weren't looking at her all this time. Khushi laid down on her side of the bed and Arnav placed his phone down and shut off the lights. Once again, like every night before, they slept on their opposite sides.

But little did they realize that this morning would be different than every other morning they had ever had.

Chapter Nine

With breakfast complete, all of the Raizada men headed out to work.

It should be noted that ever since Arnav had decided to get married to Khushi, Abhay Singh Raizada had felt like he had become the outcast. It made absolutely no sense to him how his younger brother could just so easily agree to marry a girl so easily, that too to someone he thought that looked like an odd, unknown creature. The sight of her scars were horrendous to him, and to see the way his family - especially his father - treated her so nicely, made absolutely no sense to him. How could they not feel repulsed by her sight? How could they simply tolerate and look right at her face with those hideous scars.

He simply did not understand - not that he cared anymore.

While the men worked away at the office, Khushi learned the ropes of her new home. She spent the day with Mona, learning the ways of the house and learning a bit more of her new family, as well as new information.

"We don't really speak much about mumma."

"Why not," Khushi asked.

"Because it's still painful. They were all still quite young when mumma passed. Since our families were close friends, I was there during her funeral. Adi and Abhay, they tried to be strong and did well on it. But poor Arnav... he was hurt the most."

And for a brief moment, Khushi wished she could have held the young version of her husband - no child deserved to experience the pain of losing their parent.

"It broke everyone's heart, seeing him crying and holding onto mumma's photo. Papa didn't know what to do, how to make him feel better. Then papa fell sick from all of the stress, and it did something to Arnav. He no longer spent his days crying and stayed by Papa's side."

Khushi noticed a family photo on the wall and looked at the man who was her husband.

"When I think of it now, I think he did that because he was worried. He had just lost one parent, he didn't want to lose the other. And since then, Arnav has stood by Papa's side, always there for him."

Mona turned to Khushi and Khushi looked at her.

"He has a big heart Khushi. Even if he doesn't always show it, he does. He loves, and he loves deeply. Papa, this family - it means everything to him." She caressed her cheek. "And I know that in time, his heart will extend out to you as well."

Khushi looked down as Mona gave her a smile before leaving her.

Even if he is such a kind-hearted man... do I even want to give him my heart?

*~*

It had been more than a month since Khushi had married Arnav. And in that time, things had changed. Khushi now felt more comfortable in her new home, though she still missed her parents and would talk to them every now and then. But she now embraced her new family, claiming them as her own. Her and Mona had established a wonderful relationship, her bhabi now also her dearest friend. Aditya had become the brother she never had and Abhay... well they avoided each other. Not that Abhay was around much, so it made it easier for Khushi.

As for her relationship with Arnav? Well, it was odd. Their first night together wasn't the only night that they had found themselves entangled to the other in the morning. It happened several times - in fact, almost every night! And every morning the two found each other with the same thought.

Why?

Why indeed? Khushi didn't know him all-to-well, even though she had been told all about her husband. However, it was never from him, so could she really claim to know him from the facts her in-laws had told her?

And Arnav? Well, he did feel bad that most of his time went to work. With the Thailand project, he found himself too busy with work and busy helping his father. His father saw it too, and he had told his son to take a break and go away on their long-delayed honeymoon. But Arnav refused and continued to help his father. But the way Sameer saw it, his son was working too hard, so he forced his son to take a day off - his first proper, official day off since marrying Khushi.

It's safe to say that when the other Raizada men went to work this morning and Mona had gone out to do some shopping, both Arnav and Khushi were slightly on their nerves. This was the first time since their little encounter at the hospital months ago, that they were alone. The only difference now was that they had the whole house to themselves.

Khushi tried hard not to think too much on it... which only lasted for a good minute.

This feels so odd, she thought to herself as she busied herself in the kitchen. Is it odd that we spoke to more words to each other before we got married? When we didn't even know each other? Then again, do we even know each other now?

Lunch was ready so Khushi brought food out to the dining room. Arnav came down not long later with a package in his hands. Khushi was curious as to what it was, but didn't say anything. He simply set the package on the seat next to his and ate. Both ate mostly in silence, unless they needed to ask the other to pass something.

"Um," Khushi began, feeling slightly odd, "would you like kheer for dessert or jalebis?"

Arnav looked at her and then back down at his food. "Whatever you want."

Khushi's eyes slightly widened at his choice of words. Whatever I want? "You don't have a preference?"

Arnav shrugged. "Not really. Besides, I won't be able to eat it."

"Why not? It'll be sugar-free."

Arnav's eyes met hers. She knows? How?

"I'll just make two separate dishes or batches, depending on which dessert you choose - one sugar-free and the other normal."

"How did you...?"

"Bhabi told me," and for some unknown reason, Khushi blushed.

Not that it wasn't missed by Arnav. In fact, he found the tint of red on her cheeks to be rather cute.

Clearing his throat a bit, Arnav picked up the package besides him. "Um... this is actually for you."

Khushi's eyebrows met in the middle. "For me?"

"Yeah. Um... I didn't know how to give it to you, this probably isn't the proper way to give a present but..." and he handed the package over to her.

Khushi took it, her confusion clear on her face.

"I hope you like it. And um, I'll be upstairs," and he got up, taking his empty plate with him to the kitchen.

Khushi watched him leave before turning her attention back on the package. I wonder....

*~*

Once Khushi had cleaned up, she picked up the package Arnav had given her. She took it upstairs with her to their bedroom and sat down on the bed. At first she hesitated to open it - she simply didn't understand why Arnav had given her a present. But once she took a deep breath and halted her racing mind, she opened it.

From within, she retrieved a beautiful yellow sari. The sight of it had Khushi smiling - it was stunning! Unfolding it, she admired the bead-work, the silver brightening the sari even more.

It's beautiful! I can't believe he got me a sari in my favorite color! But how did he know? Does he even know?

Khushi held the sari to her for a moment. She thought back to lunch, only realizing now how nervous Arnav seemed when giving her this present.

But why? Did he think I wasn't going to like it?

She looked at it and ran her hand over it.

Well he thought wrong, she smiled.