Arnav looked back 'what the!!! Why are you following me?'

Khushi 'haww Arnavji don't you know? I love you'

Arnav fumed 'get lost' and left from there, Khushi's heart pinched for a second but then she grinned shouting at his back 'but I love you Raizada'

This is daily day happening in Mount College, Shimla from past one year, Arnav Singh Raizada, the rude aloof angry guy of final year student of Fashion Designing being followed by a cute, beautiful, bubbly girl Khushi Gupta second year student of Fine Arts.

Payal smacked her head from behind 'Khushi why do you always run after him? He is so rude to you. Kya bachpana hai yeh'

Khushi mortified 'my love looks like child play to you'

Payal shaking her head 'no Khushi but he is definitely not interested in you.

Khushi 'but he is not interested in anyone else too, and I'm sure one day he will love me back'

Payal 'I hope you don't get heart break due to all this' Khushi turned deaf ear to her words and left behind Arnav who probably had went to library.

Arnav looked up from his book he is reading, not again he thought groaning inwardly. Khushi 'hey why you are always buried in these books Arnavji? Chill, relax for some time'

Arnav 'what will you take to leave me alone?'

Khushi shaking her head 'not happening in this life time'

Arnav 'tumhe kya lagtha hai roz roz phoolon ki guldhastha aur sugar free chocolates mere ghar bejne se mein tumhe entertain karunga, and then forget it'

Khushi cupping her one cheek on her palms 'haye you look handsome even in your anger'

Arnav growled 'handsome? Are you making fun of me? Listen Miss Gupta...'

Khushi 'Khushi, for you only Khushi, how much my ears are longing to hear my name from you, in your oh so husky voice'

Arnav called for all the patience he could muster up, standing up 'look Gupta, I'm not going to entertain you or will acknowledge these silly things of yours. Please spare me from all this, I've my own priorities set which I've to achieve at any cost'

Khushi 'toh kijiye na achieve, hum toh sirf aapse pyaar kar rahe hain. Pyaar karna guna todi na hai'

Arnav 'Love? Seriously? Do you have any eye problem? If then do check them please? No one will love a handicapped crippled man like me'

Khushi's anger riled up at his words 'don't...don't you dare call yourself crippled man'

Arnav looked at her fuming face, all traces of childishness gone, Khushi 'say whatever you want to me but don't insult yourself warna mujhse bura koi nahiin hoga, samjhe aap' she left with a huff, glaring at him.

Akash came to him, keeping his hand on his shoulder 'bhai?'

Arnav 'Why can't she just leave me alone Akash? She is getting on my nerves day by day'

Akash 'but bhai she loves you'

Arnav 'Love my foot, it is just a passing attraction which will end with time, she just has to understand this....*turning to Akash* I'm leaving for home'

At lunch time, Khushi came inside canteen and searched for Arnav but he was nowhere, Akash was sitting alone so Khushi came running to Akash 'Akash ji where is Arnavji?'

Akash 'bhai went home?'

Khushi 'huh? Went home? He is having classes na'

Akash 'yeh but seems like he have bunked his class'

Khushi 'achha tikkai, thank you' and she started running out, Akash shouted back 'now where are you going?'

Khushi 'to meet Arnavji, bye Akash ji'

Akash ran towards her catching up, pulling her elbow to stop her 'no, you are not going to meet him'

Khushi pouted 'why? I want to meet him'

Akash 'Khushi why don't you leave bhai alone? He is not interested in you'

Khushi 'he will get interested in me Akash ji. You don't worry, I'll handle him.'

Akash 'you are not understanding' Khushi freed her hands away from him 'and I don't want to' she ran off but not before shouting 'don't tell him about I'm coming to meet him'

Akash muttering to himself 'bhai is surely not going to like this'

Arnav opened the door of his flat to get shock, Khushi standing there smiling at him 'Arnavji!!!!' she pushed passing him came inside. Arnav closed the door and turned to her 'what are you doing here?'

Khushi looked all around the flat in awe 'wow this is nice'

Arnav clutched her arms 'Khushi I asked you something, what you are doing here?'

Khushi 'of course to meet you, * looked at him as if he is a dumb* why did you leave the classes half way and came?'

Arnav 'to get some peace'

Khushi 'accha toh let us get some peace'

Arnav 'that is definitely not going to happen in your presence'

Khushi 'Arnav ji I'm hungry, what is there in the house?'

Arnav 'nothing'

Khushi 'haww then what did you had in lunch?'

Arnav 'nothing'

Khushi 'Arnav ji you should not skip your food, wait let me prepare something for us quickly'

Arnav 'that is not needed' but his words were as always unheard by her, she went inside the kitchen after searching it, and started checking the ingredients.

Arnav came inside the kitchen 'what are you doing now?'

Khushi 'I'm making roti, daal, and aloo sabji for us'

Arnav 'I said there is no need of this Khushi, just go from here'

Khushi adamantly 'no, you go, I'll cook our food and call you' Arnav pulling his hair out went to his room banging the door shut. He called Akash who asked sorry for not able to stop Khushi from coming to meet him but Arnav as Arnav vented out his anger on the poor soul, whose ear drum got hurt listening to his bhai's angry words.

Thirty minutes later, Khushi after setting the table for lunch knocked on Arnav's door 'Arnav ji lunch is ready come out. I'm starving'

Arnav shouted from inside 'I'm not hungry, just go from here Khushi'

Khushi 'haww' she went to the dining table, taking a plate piled food in it, and went inside his room who glared at her. Khushi 'don't look at me like that, I'm not scared of that look'

She kept the plate on the table before the couch 'come have your lunch'

Arnav's reached its peak, he yanked her towards him 'what the hell do you want? Why can't you leave me alone?'

Khushi gulped, swallowing 'in this one year did you not understand that I love you and only want your love'

Arnav pulling her dangerously close 'you want my love?'

Khushi nodded her head, Arnav 'then I've a condition'

Khushi 'condition?'

Arnav snarled 'yes condition. Have s** with me' Khushi looked at him wide eye 'what?'

Arnav 'kyun dar gayi.......now where your love gone?' Khushi's eyes filled up, Arnav pushed her away. She could not control herself and ran inside the bathroom crying. He closed his fist tight and gulped closing his eyes angry with himself.

Minutes later door to the bathroom clicked open, Arnav thought to apologize to her and turned around only to be left shocked. Khushi clad only in towel standing before him. His tongue got tied looking at her in this state.

Khushi 'I'm ready Arnav ji' he looked at her shocked, she lifted her hands to untie the knot when he shouting turned his back towards her 'No!!!!'

Khushi 'why Arnav ji? just before few minutes ago you said that you wanted to do 'That' with me'

Arnav 'Khushi!!!...Khushi please just go and put on your cloths'

Khushi 'why are you refusing now Arnav ji?'

Arnav shouted at her, still not facing her 'I said go and put your clothes on'

Khushi jumped back frightened, she rushed inside the bathroom and came out after minute all dressed. Arnav turned towards her, his eyes blazing with fire. He stride towards her and slapped hard 'what do you think you were doing?'

Khushi eyes teared up; no one had slapped her in her entire life. Arnav clutched her shoulder shaking her 'by doing all this, what are you trying to prove Khushi? Haan?'

He pushed her away from him glaring at her, Khushi started crying, Arnav 'leave me alone Khushi, I don't want to see your face ever again' Khushi looked at him wide eye.

Arnav 'I hate you Khushi...did you get that I hate you? I'm begging you leave me alone in peace'

Khushi stunned looked at him; he turned his face away from her, her tears hurting him. Khushi choked 'I...I Love you Arnavji *Arnav closed his eyes*...I always have and always will. I know by coming half naked in front of you, agreeing to have 'IT' with you, you probably must have confirmed me to be a characterless girl na. But I don't regret coming in front of you like that Arnav ji. *Arnav turned to her shocked, Khushi looked at him gulping* my love for you will never see what is right and wrong, it just knows one thing that my heart, body and soul belongs to you, so there is no wrong in showing myself to you. If you had done 'THAT' with me even then I would have not felt bad because for me it would have been pure love. I can never stop loving you Arnav ji, even if I die, because everything of me belongs to you and only you. Don't think that it is a passing cloud phase for me and I'll do this shameful act before anyone else, because I'll not. Only you have the rights on me and no one else, only you have the rights to see me, touch me because for me you are not just my love but in my heart I've started seeing you as my husband. So I don't regret for my act because my husband has full right on me, which is you and this right I'll never give it to anyone. Do you think by asking me something like that I'll assume you a cheap person and my love for you will vanish in thin air, no Arnav ji that is not going to happen in this life time'

Wiping her tears 'I know you hate me so much *gulping* and,...and from now on I'll not bother you. I'll not show you my face but never think that I'll stop loving you'

Khushi turned to go but stopped, she looked at him 'what I don't have in me Arnav ji? tell na. I'll try to overcome it. Or are you...are you still in love with Lavanya? *her heart broke with that thought even more than his painful words* I've always loved you Arnav ji even when you were with Lavanya. You know it hurt me so much when she hurt you but I could not do anything to her. Do you...do you still love her?...why? what is in her that I don't have? Please tell me...if you want I will even do plastic surgery and change my face to Lavanya's if I'll get your love....but please tell me why do you hate me so much.....why don't you love me?....*looking at his stilled form, she burst out in crying* I'm sorry...I bothered you lot....don't worry from now on you will not have to see me....*wiping her tears* but....but *looking at the plate piled with food* have your lunch? Don't take my anger on your food? It is not good for your health....' She ran off from there crying leaving Arnav shocked.

Arnav slumped down on the bed, her every words echoing in his ear but please tell me why do you hate me so much.....why don't you love me?..

Arnav's tear escaped 'I don't...I don't hate you...how can I destroy your life by binding with me' he cried thinking all the time when Khushi used to follow him like lost puppy. His gaze went towards the food she made for him, gulping he stood up and sat on the recliner, taking the plate in his hands, he eat not because he felt hungry because he could not refuse her words. A lone tear escaped again 'I'm sorry Khushi...I'm so sorry.....you did not left me with any other choice'

Arnav Singh Raizada had an accident at the age of his ten, his leg was badly hurt and he became limp in his right leg. His family had taken him to so many doctors but they had said no hope and he has to deal with this limp all his life. Because of his limp he had suffered so much, pity, sympathy, mocking, had been fun object to others and the list goes on. He had become rude, aloof from everyone. No one wanted to befriend him and he never let that concern him, he is okay being alone. His Di Anjali Raizada and brother Akash Raizada was enough for him. Girls would be sniggering at his back but he cared less, he was all fine till he joined the Mount College in Shimla away from his hometown Delhi. In his first year of the college, he had met with Lavanya Kashyap, sweet girl was all he thought, she became his friend gradually when other girls stayed away from him she was the only girl who befriended him. Boys, they never considered him as a human being always keeping a distance as if they are spot with him than their image would be shattered. He and Lavanya had become very good friends and gradually he started falling for her and thought the same from her side too seeing her concern and care for him but the bubble had been lost when he had confessed his feelings and in turn got mocked by her....it was enough blow for him. Till today he could not shake of the words from his mind.

Lavanya 'do you really think I like you in that way? How can you think in that way ASR? I cannot imagine myself with a partner like you who cannot walk properly, I had been friend with you only because you are good at studies and I needed your help in studies. But you thought it to be as my feelings for you. No girl in the right frame will love you ASR. And do you think the hottest girl like me, where the boys in this whole college run behind to have a chance will fall for you. It will never happen in my dreams too, it will be a nightmare ASR. I cannot afford for a dark life.'

He had been shattered listening to her words and it killed him, felt like a fool to think of someone beautiful girl like her would want to be his life partner. He had been dwelling on his sorrow when Khushi confessed her love to him. He was shocked when she told she is following him from past six months discreetly and she loves him. He retailed, shouted at her every time, looked at her as if she is pest but nothing deterred her from approaching him again and again.

His phone started ringing; he attended the call, Anjali 'Chotte!!!'

Arnav 'Di!!!'

Anjali 'Chotte what happen? Why are you sounding upset?'

Arnav 'nothing Di, I'm tired'

Anjali not convinced 'is that girl again? Akash called me that she had come to meet you at home'

Arnav 'yes Di, but now she is gone'

Anjali sighing 'Chotte why don't you give her a chance? Why are you still dwelling on the past?'

Arnav 'she deserves someone better Di'

Anjali 'What about you, Chotte? You too deserve someone better like her'

Arnav 'Di I don't want to talk anything about it, just leave it Di...tell me how are you?'

Anjali 'I'm fine Chotte'

Arnav 'hmmmm'

Anjali 'I called you to inform that our AR grabbed another deal today'

Arnav smiling lightly 'it is good Di, congrats'

Anjali 'I miss you and Akash here Chotte'

Arnav 'I would be returning back to Delhi soon Di, this year is my last. And for Akash it will take another year'

Anjali 'yeah and then I'll handle AR to you both'

Arnav 'no Di, I prefer to handle designing department, you should be AR's Managing Director'

Anjali 'no Chotte'

Arnav 'Di we will talk on this matter later' both the siblings than having a little talk kept the phone.

Next day, as always Arnav got a bouquet of flower of red rose with sugar free chocolate to him delivered by Khushi with a note....Arnav opened the note to read 'sorry Arnav ji....you asked me not to show my face but you did not ask me to not send you these flower's and chocolate, and please don't ask me to stop all this because I know how much these flowers, you being close to plants makes you calm and at peace, but don't worry I'll not show my face....pakka promise.....and I had to tell you something Arnav ji, today you know I got a dream of you, me and our baby playing together...we looked so cute Arnav ji like a happy family'

Arnav sighed keeping the note safe in the pile of notes she send, Akash came inside his room, seeing the flowers and another chocolate box, he spoke out loud 'today again'

Arnav looked at him, Akash sighing 'she loves you bhai, and she will never stop these'

Arnav 'till when Akash, if I'll just not give her any attention than she will stop trying'

Akash shaking his head 'I don't think so, I've never seen someone so crazy for anyone'

As said Khushi never showed up before him, but her notes, her bouquets of flower accompanied with small chocolate box always greets him every morning.

One fine morning, as usual Arnav got his morning greetings from Khushi, but with the note stating different things.... 'Arnav ji today I'm leaving for Lucknow, buaji is not fine, and she wants to see me. I'm leaving for two to three days, hopefully will return back soon. Take care of yourself Arnav ji....I...Love you.....and I'll miss you so much....'

But never the flower send to him stopped, the flowers always greeted him all his mornings, with a note written from your Khushi......

Khushi came back after five days from Lucknow, she started getting ready for college with so much enthusiasm, she will get to see her Arnav ji today...oh how much she missed him. Payal had already left for college; she got ready and left hostel hurrying towards college which is the next building.

Her nostrils taking in the waft of air passing by college, I Love You Arnav ji, Khushi hurried towards library knowing well Arnav will be there, she cannot go in front of him but can see him far, can't she? She giggled at her own thought....she stepped inside and started searching for him in that vast library....soon she spotted him but then looking at the scene in front of her, her smile wiped off, Lavanya is hugging her Arnav ji....means they are back together....swallowing the lump she stepped back from there....and ran off....her college radio boomed just then announcing......Lavanya Kashyap proposed Arnav Singh Raizada, and we will get to see the pair official soon....her heart lurched listening to it.....Khushi gulped her tears....she ran and ran not wanting to attend the class, half way through she collided with Akash....who steadied her....she looked up at him to apologise, her tears at bay, choking words came past her lump throats 'I'm sorry'.....she ran away from there even without hearing what he have to say.

Words filling her ears as she ran passed everyone 'Oh my Lavanya Kashyap is back and she proposed ASR'

Another 'ASR will surely accept her, you know right he was crazy for her'

First one 'yeah, always follows her everywhere Lavanya...Lavanya....Lavanya...' everyone laughed around....Khushi could not take it around and hid herself in her secret hide out, crying furiously.

Principal looked at the girl before him 'you want to discontinue here?' he could not believe one of the best student of the college want to discontinue her studies.

Khushi nodded 'yes, my family wants me to come back'

Principal 'but...'

Khushi 'I'm sorry sir but I had to leave this college'

Principal 'okay!!!'

Khushi 'sir one request, I don't want anyone to know I'm discontinuing here'

Principal looked at her confused, Khushi 'I can't explain to everyone here' Principal nodded at her, Khushi 'I'll complete my formalities to get my certificates today itself, decided to leave back today itself, because of emergency issues'

Principal 'okay!!!' Principal could not do anything other than sighing to loss a best student, who had got into this college with her 100 percent scholarship.

The same evening Payal frowned looking at the luggage 'Khushi what is it? Where are you heading to? Is bua ji not fine?'

Khushi 'yeah she is still not okay and want me to discontinue here and come back to Lucknow, so I'm leaving'

Payal dumbstruck 'you are leaving this college and Shimla'

Khushi 'yes, bua ji needs me' Khushi hugged her before Payal could get a word out of her mouth; she exited the room taking her luggage with her.

Akash came running inside Arnav's class 'bhai I need to talk with you'

Arnav came out of the class frowning 'what is it Akash? Professor would arrive in sometime and lecture will start in some minutes', Akash took him aside whispering 'bhai Khushi left college and Shimla'

Arnav dumbstruck stood shocked 'left?'

Akash 'yes I was searching for her to have a word with her when I met Payal her friend, and what Payal said to me shocked, she said Khushi left Shimla forever and the reason is her bua ji is unwell'

Arnav swallowed the lump, Akash 'that cannot be the reason bhai, yesterday I saw her coming out of the library crying when she bumped with me, I think...I think she saw you with Lavanya'

Arnav's heart lurched, yes it was true Lavanya came back again and proposed him realising her mistake apologising to him but he had....he had rejected her proposal....

Lavanya 'ASR are you taking revenge because I refused earlier, hurt you...then please I'm sorry.....I realised how wrong I was....'

Arnav 'there is nothing to avenge from Lavanya but I cannot accept you back in my life' he started walking away when Lavanya 'why? I came back for you'

Arnav turned back 'really? Only because Ranjith dumped you, that you realized your mistake, but I don't love you, if to think of I never loved you...it may be my attraction or the pull towards you because you showed your fake care towards me for your benefit....and about revenge....there is no need for any revenge because you showed me the mirror....but now I can't let anyone in my life let alone try giving the place in my heart when it belongs to someone else'

Lavanya 'who is she? Is that girl who was following you everywhere?'

Arnav 'yes, Khushi is the girl who owns me and my heart, no one has right on me other than her' he left Lavanya dejected and hurt, but she deserves it.

Arnav 'Akash she has misunderstood it all, I....I'm not with Lavanya..'

Akash 'I know bhai...that is why I was trying to find her but came to know she left this city forever'

Arnav 'I...I've to go search her'

Akash took hold of his hands 'no bhai......final presentation of the project is coming next week...and you need to concentrate on it....we will go to find Khushi once you have given your presentation'

Arnav 'but Akash...'

Akash 'no bhai...Di will be upset if she comes to know any of this....and I've already got Khushi's address from office register so just don't worry bhai....once you finish this you can go meet her....even Khushi will be upset if you go leaving your exam, career and future...she will blame herself....'

Arnav 'she is hurt....'

Akash 'I know but you hardly have time, the presentation is in next five days and you had worked so hard for this bhai...how can you let go all at last moment'

Arnav looked at his brother dejected and walked off from there to home bunking the class yet again another time.

Even though Khushi left, Arnav always got bouquet of flowers and chocolate everyday but sans any note, Arnav knew it is her who sends him even though she stopped sending him notes.

Once the presentation was over, Arnav left for Lucknow with the address Akash got from office but had to return back to Shimla to give his final exams dejectedly because Khushi was not there, she had vacate the house...and shocking news he got was Khushi's bua ji died when she came here to visit her first time and then after her death Khushi again came back from Shimla and left the house selling it to someone else. In hardly a week time everything changed.

One year later, Arnav had become famous designer; Akash too completing his degree joined their company, both brothers helping their sister. Arnav still did not leave hope and tried finding her. She must be out there somewhere and he knew he will find her one day, there was no one day where she did not send him the bouquet and chocolate's, he tried finding there too but he left with empty hand....the charge to bouquet and chocolate being paid by some Madhumathi Mishra from Lucknow on knowing the details he came to know she is Khushi's deceased bua ji and the account is a joint one with Khushi which Khushi is using to pay the fees to bouquet and delivering to him online, he was amazed at her skills, a lump of money kept in the account of her and her bua ji's joint account so that she could send him gifts. These all he had to dig the information after throwing lump amount to the bank manager who did not budge at first for giving information rather ranting about the rules of the bank, but alas always money wins...but not in the case of Khushi....his money still could not find where Khushi is.....private detective are searching for her but they were unable to find her.....soon....soon....Khushi,.....soon I'll find you my love....

Arnav's phone rang, Arnav 'yes Aman'

Aman 'ASR good news, Khushi is found'

Arnav leapt out of his chair 'what? Where is she?'

Aman 'here nearby Delhi, she is living in Delhi outskirts, thirty minutes' drive away from Delhi'

Arnav 'what? She is all the time near and we were trying to find her everywhere else....give me her address'

Aman 'details containing the file has not reached yet, as soon as I get it, I'll give it to you'

Arnav 'okay' only he knew how calm he kept without giving away anything but Aman knew better how much his boss was into that girl. How being all crazy he has been searching her?

Around evening, 6 pm,

Arnav rang the bell of the small but simple house hoping against hope to be for Khushi...but alas someone else opened the door 'ji?'

Arnav swallowing 'Khushi!!! I came to meet Khushi'

The girl 'Khushi didi has gone to market nearby, she will return in an hour' she let him inside.

Arnav nodded 'and you are?'

Rani 'I'm Rani, I come daily to help Khushi didi. But who are you? And how do you know didi? Are you here to ask her to paint?'

Arnav 'paint?'

Rani 'haan there are so many people who comes here asking Khushi didi to paint for them, she is very good painter'

He knows she is free-lancer painter from the details detective agent provided him.

Arnav 'I know but I'm not here to ask her to paint, I'm her friend'

Rani 'friend?'

Arnav nodded 'yes friend, my name is Arnav'

Rani 'Arnav ji?' her eyes went wide, Arnav confused looked at her, Rani 'you are Khushi Didi's Arnav ji....hey Bolenath she always talks about you....come...come sit Arnav bhaiya, Khushi Didi will come soon...what will you have?'

Arnav 'er...nothing..'

Rani 'nothing? Do you want me to get scolding from didi *laughing* Khushi didi will get angry if I did not get you something to eat or drink...I'll bring you coffee, first have this water....please' Arnav took the water gratefully. She was going to prepare coffee for him when he opened his mouth...Rani at once 'don't worry I know you are diabetic, you like black coffee, and all your likes and dislikes....Khushi didi if talks, only talks about you and no one else....she herself have what your likes are....' She went silent...

Arnav swallowed the lump, Rani 'and in this few months working here, helping her with house hold chores I understood one thing she loves you....at first I thought she is mad but slowly I understood she is very much mad in love with you'

Rani left to bring something for him, Arnav looked around the house.....his curious gaze moved towards the room and the name plate 'My Dream World' he started moving towards room when Rani came outside with his coffee stopped him 'no bhiaya don't go there'

Arnav 'why?'

Rani 'Khushi didi don't like it anyone enter inside that room....I got so much scoldings when one day I tried to go inside the room out of curiosity.'

Arnav became more curious to see what is inside 'well your didi will never scold me' he stepped inside leaving Rani scared and in fear....Arnav switched on the lights and what he saw shocked him to the core....Rani who followed after him gasped looking at the paintings.....Arnav turned to her...she averted her gaze and went outside saying sorry....he again turned to look at the paintings Khushi had made....it was all about him, about them...all paintings told a story about Khushi's vision of their life where they are living like a happy family.....words from notes came back to him....... 'and I had to tell you something Arnav ji, today you know I got a dream of you, me and our baby playing together...we looked so cute Arnav ji like a happy family'

He moved from one image to next, where in some only he is, in the other both Khushi and him are there, some of the paintings with Arnav, Khushi and baby, in some paintings with grown up children....he looked in awe to see how much she loves him and dreamed about her life with him...with a guy like him....who cannot walk on his feet properly....

Calling bell sound reached his ears, he walked out of the room and looked at Rani 'don't tell her I'm here, I want it to be surprise'

Rani 'Ji!!!'

Arnav hid inside the room switching off the lights....Khushi entered inside the house.....

Khushi 'Rani you are yet here, time is 8 pm, you should leave, your family would be worried'

Rani 'voh Didi, I was waiting for you'

Khushi laughed 'what is your new habit to wait for me, you always left at 6 even if I was not at home keeping the key hiding it under the carpet'

Rani 'just like that....'

Khushi 'now you should go...it is late' she told her sternly but still smiling.

Rani 'ji Didi' Rani walked out of the house once looking at the closed room. Khushi locked the door after her.......she went inside the room where Arnav hid himself, she switched on the light....taking the bought items from market she started moving towards the corner of the room, Arnav looked at her, he is seeing her after one whole year...how much he missed her....Khushi took of the cover from half-done painting....

Khushi 'sorry Arnav ji I got late' Arnav looked at her shocked from behind the screen....how did she know I'm here? He was going to come out of his hide out when he noticed her painting the half painted image of them and Khushi continuously speaking....

Khushi 'I know I know you don't like it when I come late, but what to do, I need to go buy painting stuff which got finished....you know today I again dreamed of our life....see that is what I'm painting...our dream world....*looking at Arnav's photo* how are you Arnav ji? you are taking care of yourself na, taking your food and medicines without failing na....I hope Lavanya is taking care of you well *Arnav's gulped the lump formed in his throat with her painful voice and words*....Arnav ji...I Love You....*giggling* I know I know you would have got tired listening to this....but what to do I Love You....see na how beautiful is our family....did you like it....haww...see na Arnavji our baby girls' are grown up Asin and Avishi....awe...kitne beautiful hain na...but they have your beautiful eyes Arnav ji which I love the most.......the eyes which speaks volume....*Arnav's tear started flowing listening to her talks* haan haan hume pataa hai you will not say a word in return and will only listen to my bak bak....*Khushi admired her drawn painting and sat on the bed*.....Arnav ji why did you chose Lavanya over me *she gulped*.....am I not beautiful? I love you Arnav ji....I really do....see na how beautiful our family is? Why did you not realize it Arnav ji?....*she wiped her tears*...but...but you could be hers in real world....but you solely belong to me in my dream world.,.....you, me and our children....we loved each other...married each other....and proud parents of two children....kitne khoobsurat family haina.....Arnav ji...wait a minute I'll come soon...*she dashed out of the room*'

Arnav clutched his fist tight from hitting anything, he heard it all, it pained him to see her living in the dream world.....he looked up to see Khushi entering inside the room....he watched in daze to see Khushi wearing a red saree....and got shock to see the saree is his first creation which was displayed in college....Khushi turned twirled around 'Arnav ji how is it? Accha haina *giggling* you know bua ji scolded me lot when she came to know that I sold my amma's kangan to buy this saree...but everything is worth for you...isn't it? How can I let go of your first master piece...I had to get my hands on it....it looks good on me...*sighing she sat down* Arnav ji you are getting my flowers and chocolate I send for you without failing na....I hope you like them now too.....don't worry I'll send them to you till I live in this world....*then pouting* Arnav ji why you never gave any interview or come in TV only Anjali Di and Akash ji comes to give interviews...why do you always stay in back ground...don't you know I wish to see you....' Arnav gulped hearing her aching voice for him....

Looking at the time, Khushi 'Arnav ji wait I'll bring my dinner and come...warna bua ji se data padegi...she does not like it if I sleep empty stomach....and I should have my food and sleep soon....you know I love sleeping....kyun ki dream mein app aathe hona humare bachhon ke saath....and I had promised that I'll prepare sugar free kheer for you and choco cake for our daughters....wait let me say bye to real world soon...then we will soon meet in our dream world...'

Arnav heart stopped to the extent she has went into the illusion, he watched in daze at Khushi having her dinner giggling and talking about the life she envisioned or envisioning to him as if he is actually in front of her.

Seeing her taking even breathe he took his shaking form near her, his Khushi...his Khushi is lost in the dream world...where for her he, she and their children exist...what had he done to her?...Oh God...he sat beside her watching her sleep probably dreaming about them...he could not control himself and took her in his arms crying...Khushi peered opened her eyes...not able to differentiate the reality and dream...she cupped his face 'Arnav ji...why are you crying?...are you hurt?...tell me na...you are worrying me...' Arnav watched her with his vulnerable eyes...he shake his head croaking 'nothing...I...I missed you...' Khushi smiling 'now you are here...come sleep' she made him lay down and cuddled close to him before murmuring in her sleep 'this feels so real Arnav ji'

Kissing him on the place his heart beats 'Wish you were with me in real too? Kitna accha hota na' he not able to take buried his head in her hairs, his tears slipping unchecked in her tresses where she dreamed of them unknown to the pain he is going through.

Next day, Khushi woke up, she tried to get up only to land back on the bed, frowning she looked for the source which is restraining her to get up...her gaze came to lock with molten one's she blinked, and in awe touched the stubble jaw line, giggling she scooted close and pecked the lips...Arnav shuddered...Khushi giggling 'Good morning Arnav ji...you are yet here....ab tak aap gaye nahiin...hum toh ut gaye na aur toh aur sapno ki duniya se bhi bahar aagaye....*hugging him* bada pyaar aa raha hai aaj...hamesha toh yehi kehthe aaye ho ki jao Khushi hum aaj raat ko milenge asli duniya tumhara intezaar kar raha...par aaj kya huwa, aapko bhi meri tarah mann nahiin lagan na...*giggling* I knew it....aap humse bahut pyaar karthe haina.....agar humare bas meing hota na toh hum sapno ki duniya mein hi reh jaate aapke paas'

Arnav choked, he could not breathe, it is hurting him to see her like this....he pulled back 'Khushi!!!...this is not dream...this is very much real'

Khushi 'Real?' then she laughed as if someone said joke to her 'aap bhi na....how can you be real? You are there na in your place with...with Lavanya'

Arnav getting up cupped her face pleading 'Khushi no I'm here with you....I was never with Lavanya...'

Khushi shaking her head 'enough with the jokes...let me get up and prepare your black coffee'

She got up and went outside giggling like a school girl....Arnav followed her closely, pulling her elbow 'Khushi understand this...you are not living in dream...this is very much real...I'm here at your home'

Khushi pushed him 'enough of this joke Arnav ji....I don't like these types of jokes....*she looked around* we...we are still in my world....in my dream world...okay..... so stop pretending.....*grabbing his collar* hum aapko apni duniya mein kisi aur ke saath nahiin baat sakthe....*pushing him, she went to the door locking it firmly, checking all the windows properly* now...now she...now she will not be able to take you away from me....*giggling* I'll not have to share you with her....this is my world....arey kitne pyaar se banaya hai meri duniya ko....mein use kisiko todne nahiin dungi....haan...' she went inside the room muttering to herself.....Arnav slumped down shocked to what extent she is lost....she had lost to an extent where she is not able to differentiate the reality and dream....what should he do now?

Arnav wiping her tears stood up...with trembling legs he went inside.....his heart stopping at the sight....Khushi had went back to sleep or more so to the dream world....he panicked....he panicked to see her slipping more into the world where all is mirage....he went to her....shaking her 'Khushi Khushi...get up...it is morning now...'

Khushi 'nahiin'

Arnav 'Khushi tum abhi isi waqt utogi...warna...warna....' He looked around....Khushi giggled in her sleep 'you cannot do anything Arnav ji....*giggling* this is my world Arnav ji...aap kuch bhi nahiin kar sakthe bina humare na chahe.....this world runs according to me...'

Arnav 'Khushi!!!!...' he leapt out of the bed.... 'I can destroy this world Khushi....I can...'

Khushi 'nope...not a scratch...'

He took hold of all the paintings taking it out of the room, out of the house, throwing them in a leap on the lawn, he walked inside....yanking her to stand on her feet....Khush looked at him shocked 'Arnav ji....kya huwa aap...aap intne gusse mein kyun ho......you never were angry with me...toh why are you angry now?.....*she looked into his anger filled eyes, not knowing he is angry not on her but with himself, because of him she is in this state*....now let go of this anger an Arnav ji...come let's prepare something for Asin and Avishi...both would be back from school' he felt difficulty to breathe....he pulled her outside with him....Khushi tried to pull back...but his strength was more when compared to hers.

Her eyes went wide when she saw the painting she had kept close to her heart is outside laying on the heap on the lawn....shuddering she leapt forward to take them when Arnav poured kerosene on them....

Khushi 'Arnav ji...yeh kya kar rahe hain aap....humari duniya jal jayegi...(what are you doing? My world will get burned.)'

Arnav 'toh jalne do....tumhe agar asli duniya mein wapas lane ke liye mujhe tumhari sapno kii duniya ko jalana hogo toh mein wahii karunga...(then let it burn......to bring you back to the real world from your dream if I've to burn it then I'll do just that.'

Khushi ran towards him 'aap....aap aise nahiiin kar sakhthe....aap humari duniya ko aise kaise jala denge....hum nahiin jee payenge...please don't this....are you not happy with me? Did that...did that Lavanya had come to take you away from our world....no...no...you cannot do this to me....please I'll die...'

Arnav gulped his tears...pushing her away he burned those paintings in front of Khushi's horror filled eyes who kept thrashing to go put the fire off wriggling in Arnav's arm to let her go....but Arnav pulled her flush on him tightening the hold....Khushi 'humari duniya.,...humari duniya....' Her cries piercing his heart......Arnav panicked when he felt her limp form with no movements, he sprinkled water hoping against hope to see her eyes flutter open but she did not...taking her in his arms he took her to hospital nearby.

Doctor checked Khushi, Arnav 'how is she?'

Doctor 'fine, had given sedatives will come to conscious in hours'

Arnav nodding 'is everything alright?'

Doctor 'yes everything alright for now...but Mr. Raizada on looking at her condition, it is nervous breakdown and after listening to what you have witnessed in last few hours it will be good if you consult a psychiatrist for her'

Arnav 'she is fine, right?'

Doctor 'yes physically but mentally she is not fine, I'm not saying she is mad but she is in the thin line of thread between losing her sanity al together, so not to delay further lest she loses herself in her hallucinated world fully she had to be treated'

Arnav nodded at her, Doctor 'I'll give reference to the best psychiatrist Dr. Sharma in Delhi, take her there, and rest Dr. Sharma will do'

Arnav 'then I'm taking her to Dr. Sharma, I can shift to Dr. Sharma's clinic, right? I don't know how she will react once she gets up...it would be better if I take her there without any further delay'

Doctor 'I'll inform her'

Arnav nodded at her and got up; shaking his hands with the doctor he went outside towards Khushi's room....Khushi is under sedatives....he sat beside her on the bed taking her hand in his.....what did you do to yourself Khushi? Why?

He clutched her hand against his head and cried.....later after completing the formalities he took her to the clinic Doctor has referred to him.

Dr. Sharma looked at him after reading the file and hearing his vision of story of what he saw, sighing 'she will be fine Mr. Raizada'

Arnav 'I...I want her back....she should be fine...can't see her like this...'

Dr. Sharma nodded, a ping sounded she looked at her pager to see an emergency cropped and it is not for someone else but from the nurse appointed to look at Khushi......both Arnav and doctor rushed to Khushi's ward to see her trying to thrash everything around her way to reach out, to leave the room...to go back....

Khushi 'let me go....let me go....my....my home is burning....my beautiful world is burning....I need to save my world.....please let me go...I'll die....I die without my world....please....'

Doctor rushed to her 'Khushi...Khushi...shhh...*Khushi is nowhere to listen, the doctor shouted nurse* and then there was injection thrust on her hand by the nurse which she injected on Khushi.....Doctor then looked back at Arnav staggered on the wall, his eyes with pure pain of anguish.

Doctor 'she will be okay, we will make her okay' patting his shoulder the elderly woman walked out.

Anjali and Akash came running, Anjali hugging him 'Chotte!!!! We were so worried when not able to get through to you. What happen?'

Arnav 'Di...' he hugged her desperately seeking comfort... 'Di....Di...Khushi....Khushi....*he burst out in tear* I cannot see her like this'

Anjali and Akash gulped their tears to see him like this, he was always tough hard shell never gave into the emotion of helpless and tears even when he had been into accident and got limp, even when their parents left in the middle of the war in this cruel world...he always stood as rock but when the equation to the fragile girl inside the room, Khushi...his emotions betrayed him....the girl is his strength at the same time a threat to his weakness which he always try to bury but failed...now he failed.....

Anjali 'Shhh Chotte...everything will be fine....she will be fine....'

Arnav 'I don't Di...I don't know what to do...I cannot lose her Di....I cannot lose her in midst of illusion, to a mirage'

Khushi was laid in the recliner in the dark room, Doctor Sharam hovering over her.....Dr. Sharma in hushed tone asked to Khushi gently who is in deep state of hypnosis 'tell me about yourself Khushi, you, your family, your dreams....'

Khushi 'My father is Shashi Gupta and mother Garima Gupta....we were so happy family, I was the princess of their world...but they had to leave me alone...they died in an accident when I was eight...I could not understand the reason for their absence and why my buaji took me to her home....I waited for days for them to come and take me with me...days turned to month and then year but they never came......I slowly realised they will not come...I was sad...very sad of not finding them beside me but buaji consoled me that she will always be with me and she is there for me...and Amma babuji is looking at me from the sky, they are stars now....*Arnav felt lump forming in his throat listening to the child lost her parents and her sorrow*....buaji and I had each other for us, living happy in our own world bubble....that is when....that is when I saw him....Arnav, Arnav Singh Raizada * a strange peace of calm settled over Khushi's face, Arnav watched in awe from other side of the glass, Anjali and Akash on either side of him emotional and supporting him* I and buaji had come over to one of her relatives house in Delhi...it was my vacation after I completed my 12th grade....I was so happy to spent few days before the announcement of my exam result come and I had to prepare to join college...that was the day of teej.....the relatives over there had two daughter Arohi and Sharmili, both were very happy on the day of teej keeping fast for wishing for a prince charming...I was so intrigued and I kept fast too....I just wanted to get a Prince Charming like from those tales buaji used to tell if I keep fast and Devi Maya being happy grants me one....that is when I met Arnav ji....I was climbing the stairs when I felt dizzy, he was beside me who did not let me fall and helped to sit over the bench, he made me drink water...his voice so husky with concern filled in them....I got lost when I looked in those pools of molten eyes...I lost myself into it...he went away after assuring I'm fine...but I could not get him out of my find...my eyes followed him...he had went to a lady and a guy standing near the tree...and when I collected details about them came to know they are his sister and brother....for my luck Arohi di's father know them...and I got details from them....that evening my eyes were only on him and no one else....after that I and buaji had returned back to Lucknow...but I could not forget him....I know I fell in love with him first sight and the fast he broke of mine was a sign from my Devi Maya that he is the one for me....so I did what I felt correct...I gave test for the entrance in his college where he is studying, Mount College, Shimla. I did well and got a place for myself, buaji was not happy with me going away from her but....but I need to be near him so I left for Shimla to...to my Arnav ji....yes My Arnav ji...that is what he is for me and will always be *Arnav swallowed, she loved him but not from the time he thought to be that is college but even before that they had met in Delhi, Anjali and Akash looked at in awe at the information*....I joined the college...I was happy...very happy to get to see him...and I saw him but...but he was with Lavanya....I always felt tears cloud my eyes whenever I saw him with her, but then collecting details I came to know they are friends, I was very glad......I could not see him with anyone else but me.....I followed him everywhere he go first few months discreetly......I knew even if I go before him he will not recognise me but I was hopeful that one day he will love me back like I do........I always wished...so wished the care, the concern, the affection he showed towards Lavanya for me, I so wished that I was in her place....but sadly I was not......and then that girl had to go and insult him...I cried that very much at the pain in his eyes and his tormented face.....I would never wish to see him sad, in pain.....he was so sad...very sad...as if his life is lost...I decided to cheer him up but did not know what to do...but then I know he loves gardening, plants are his second home, and he loves rose...so I always delivered him with rose and sugar free chocolate.....day's turned to months and I decided to propose him......I did but...but he refused me...*she sobbed, Arnav's heart wrenched* I did not lose hope...I always followed him this time letting him know, he used to get angry at me....but I was happy atleast I'm getting some reaction from him.....then...then he said to me he hates me for the first time and don't want to see me....It was like I got killed by his words...I could take anything from him, but hate, disgust...I will never be able to....so I promised him that...that I'll not go in front of him and he will never see my face again....I got a call after few days from Lucknow about buaji is not well and I had to return to Lucknow....it was hard for me one side buaji who is my mother figure, and second there was Arnav ji...I love them both and I was torn....then again darkness creeped in my life...my buaji left me...she left me and I was alone again....*her sobs got increased* I came back again to Shimla....to see my love my Arnav ji but again my fate betrayed me when I saw him with her, with Lavanya.....my life got shattered in front of my eyes...I felt darkness filling my world and there is no way to escape...I left Shimla, for forever.......returned to Lucknow, there too I was not able to cope, the loss of buaji and then losing the one you loved overwhelmed me, nightmares started to haunt me and I sold the house...left Lucknow and all I see myself in new city Jaipur....I left my studies...I could not go on....to my living I started painting and sell them, and it did good, painting came natural to me and helped me lot......there too I was not at peace....I don't know what to do....then I did what is best.....I know Arnav ji is back in Delhi after finishing his degree......so I sold my amma's jeweller she kept for my marriage and got a home in the outskirts of Delhi, at least this way I would a little close to him...to Arnav ji......I...always had dreamed of living a happy life, a family of our own with him and it brought out all the aching in me.....I started building my dream world with him...where there will no endanger of anyone snatching him away from me......he will be all mine in my beautiful world....I was so happy living in my beautiful world I created but.....*painting burning before her flashed through her memories, she became agitated*....I need to go....my world is burning before my eyes...I cannot see it destroyed....it is dying....I cannot live without him....Arnav ji....Arnav ji....'

Dr. Sharma caressed her hair, patting her cheek 'Shhh Khushi...shh relax...calm down.....nothing happened to your world...it is still beautiful...shh calm down'

The soothing word of the doctor made Khushi to calm down, and she slumped into sleep.....Arnav's eyes betrayed with what he listened he was crying and his siblings who were with him for his support themselves were tormented with what they heard.

Khushi opened her eyes, her gaze after looking around the room came to halt at Payal who is sitting beside her, confused she scrunches her eye brows 'Payal'.....Payal 'Khushi...shh you need rest' but Khushi sat up, her tears started filling her eyes at the thought of what happened to her dream...her beautiful dream.....she hugs her crying 'Payal...Payal...my dream world is destroyed...my dream world is destroyed in front of my eyes...I don't want to live.,...I cannot live without my world...'

Payal hugged her crying 'Khushi....shss don't say that....'.... and continued stroking her head 'if you will not come out of dream world how you are going to live in real world'

Khushi shaking her head 'I don't want to live in real world,.....my dream world is beautiful......I made it with so much love...'

Payal 'real world will be more beautiful'

Khushi 'no no in real world Arnav ji is not with me....but in my dream world he is with me....'

Payal controlling the erupting sob 'only when you will come out of the dream world you will be able to live in real world with your Arnav ji'

Khushi looked at her confused........Akash and Arnav walks in the room.....she looks at him wide eye....Akash 'Payal!!!'

Payal looked back at him, nodding at him 'Ji!!!!'....she had been called here by Akash who said to her about Khushi and her condition, not believing her ears about her long lost friends condition, she come running to Delhi leaving Shimla, her classes, college....she needed to see Khushi....Khushi had been so close to her on their short period of time Khushi was in college with her...and she cannot or did not forget such a beautiful soul in her life...she got up making way for Arnav exciting with Akash....

Arnav came and sat beside her, she is silent looking at him with her wide eyes, he looked at her....Khushi aloud more to herself 'you were there....you were really there....*she burst out in tears again*.....why...why did you do this.....why to me?'

Arnav sat beside her taking in her trembling form in his arms, stroking her hairs and kissing her forehead occasionally....he held her silent till she calmed down....Khushi clutching him hard cried, cried for everything and anything her heart craved for.....Arnav 'Shhh Khushi....shhh...please...don't...don't cry' with choked voice.

Khushi 'you destroyed it...you destroyed it.....I had made it with so much love and you burned them in front of my eyes....why...why?'

Arnav cupping her face 'because I wanted you to come back to me in real world, I wanted you in my life, here in real world and not in the world you had created, that was just illusion Khushi....this is real, you and me....and I'll make our real world more beautiful than your dream world...trust me...'

Khushi hiccupping looked at him with her hazel eyes 'you want me in your life....but....but Lavanya....'

Arnav 'she never was and she never will be......*hugging her tight* how I can look at any other girl who is not my Khushi, my wife, my life......*kissing her forehead* if I'm your husband than you are my wife Khushi.....how do you expect me to leave my wife and go to other woman....and who in right frame will do that....leaving a beautiful gorgeous woman for any shiny piece of glass which from far will always look like a diamond but they cannot be, can they?....how can I leave my precious gem, my diamond and go behind glittering glasses.....Khushi...I Love You....I always have....and I always will....just be with me....I'll make our world very much beautiful than your dream....please my Love....stay with me....I promise to never leave you'

Khushi slumped against him crying 'I Love You....I Love You so much Arnav ji...' the two talked, talked about everything they missed about each other, talked about him, about her and how they passed this one year without each other.

Few months later......Arnav after tired day at work comes to home, to his Khushi.....they had been married for two months now, blissfully living in their small world happy.....his siblings understanding him did not take offence when he decided to live in separate house, him and Khushi.....they understood and is okay with the fact that he is in same city and they can meet often in fact they will be meeting each other daily in office......at the weekend on Sunday he takes Khushi with him to RM to spend time with his siblings and that was enough for his family.......they are happy because he is happy......he knew he is selfish but more than Khushi he wanted to be with her alone after the emotional trauma in their life......coming inside the room he looks at his life, she is there sitting on their bed grinning widely looking at something in her hand......Khushi looked up at him, seeing him like always her face lit up 'you are back early'

He came and hugged her tight 'yeah, work finished soon and fled away to come to you' Khushi giggled 'I love you'

Arnav smiled 'Love you too Jaan' but then he stiffened looking at the book perched on their bed....his insides going chilled....dreading....he picked up the sketch book....it was another sketching of them......but...but she had stopped sketching, isn't it.....it is not she has completely gave upon painting's but...she never started drawing them again.......turning the pages in shock he called her 'Khushi!!!'

Khushi looks up at him, to see his shocked, horror filled face....Arnav 'Khushi what is it?'

Khushi looked at the sketch book 'oh this is the beautiful moment of our life...I'm sketching it to show it to our children than our grandchildren in future...voh there was saying na every painting has a story to it...' she started telling the story behind the picture, some of the very beautiful moment they spend together after his confession.

Arnav sighing in relief, cupping her face 'I got scared'

Khushi first did not understand, her foggy brain started working realization dawning, she smiled at him...hugging him 'don't worry Arnav ji...I'm very much with you in our real world'

Arnav hugged her tight relived 'don't go back....just don't leave me'

Khushi 'shhh Arnav ji...I'll never go back....I'll always be with you...I Love You'

Arnav 'I Love You too Jaan....very much...I Love You so much'

This thread will be all about my random shots.

So here, I've presented you my first shot "Deewangi". Do let me know your views.

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