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Not proofread

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Arnav was all smiles since the day he got the second bestest news of his life. They had visited doctor who did some basic examinations, inquiries about morning sickness, mood swings which were absent again. She had asked them to come for their first pre-natal checkup after 6th week. In the meanwhile, they had to get some tests done. There was nothing to worry, she had reassured them.

Whenever free, his thoughts would involuntarily take him to the new life ahead and it was so euphoric that nine months waiting period seemed injustice. Well, even that has its advantages. He could now pamper Khushi without restrictions like last time. Feel, touch and not just watch from distance, the way their beautiful creation ll swell up that smooth flat belly of his pancake.  Another masterpiece to this world from Arnav-Khushi factory, was in making, he thought smugly. 

Aman looked on from the door as his boss stretched his tired muscles on his chair with a goofy smile that seemed to have become a very frequent visitor on stern-faced man since past three days. He wondered what could have brought such a pleasant change, did Aarav do some mischief again? 

"Get in Aman", Arnav's voice broke his trance.

"Boss, I umm...", he was embarrassed that he was caught gawking at his boss. Aman was curious but didn't have guts to ask the reason behind so much happiness. Will he bark? Yes, he ll scowl and then boom...Aman you are fired with a free GET OUT! 

Arnav got up and stood in front of his desk. He had read the question on his most trusted man's face. Aman was family and he deserved to know. "Congratulations Aman", he smirked folding his hands across. "Huh?", Aman wondered if his ears were working fine. He had never ever congratulated him before. Not even after sealing some of the biggest deals. He must have finally financed his most cherished Hawaii dream? But ASR wouldn't smile while sanctioning a month long paid leaves, Aman!

"Aman,You are going to be Chachu(Uncle) again", Arnav said it casually.  Aman was so shocked that it didn't register in his mind that Arnav considered him, his brother. He hugged him tight and asked happily, the  stupidest and commonest question, "Really Boss? Bhabhi's pregn...", as if someone would joke about becoming a father. Arnav nodded and Aman congratulated him composing himself. It was most pleasant news. Hawaii can go to hell! He is going to be Uncle again. Brilliant!

Arnav then thanked Aman for supporting Khushi when she had come to his office last time with similar news. Day was not worth remembering so they swiftly changed the topic to their usual work. Before dismissing him, Arnav asked him to be vigilant about Anjali's security as she was dating someone. Aman got both Anjali's and Khushi's security tightened not knowing the mistake he had done in enthusiasm by doing more than instructed. 

Around a week later,

Arshi were currently parked in front of his office. Arnav had instructed her 'to do', 'not to do' 101 times all the way from home. Even Aarav, whom they dropped to kindergarten, could now recite them without assistance. She was sure to get scolded by professor for being late but over-concerned father-to-be was simply not ready to leave without getting a new demand fulfilled.

"Khushi please say it na"

"Arnavji ek hi baat hazaar baar bolne se kya ho jayega? Ye phele baahar aa jayegi?"("What will happen if I repeat it 1000 times? She won't come out sooner! ")

"Last time. Pure din pareshan nahi karunga tumhe, Pakka"("Last time. I wont irritate you whole day, I promise.")

"Fine. Aap. Papa. banane. wale. ho", she repeated it for 100th time, uninterested in humoring his weird demands that has become routine since the day pregnancy got confirmed. This was seriously getting on her nerves now. ASR was better than this Arnav.("You are going to be a Dad")

"Aise nahi...waise bolo jaise first time bola tha"("Not like this...say it the way you said it the first time")

"Arghhh!"

"Khusheeeeeeeeeeee"

She sighed coz subconsciously she knew he was compensating for his lost chance during Aarav's time. She turned completely towards him and said it with same eagerness, same twinkling eyes and same smile as first time. It was fluent when it came from heart. "Arnavji, aap Papa banane wale hain" ("Arnavji...you are going to be a Dad"). 

"Thank you so much", he pecked her cheek and moved out. "Bye", she shouted now smiling. Arnav turned and mouthed the same with a bright smile. Khushi kept on looking as guards wished him, he nodded and ASR disappeared into AR. She drove to her University. Its ok, she ll take a rebuke from Mrs. Bhatnagar(a strict professor who taught Ph.D students.) for that smile which lights up the world. Life is just so beautiful and bright. 

O saathi re
din Doobe naa,
aa chal din ko rokein
dhoop ke peechhe daudein
chhaaon chuyein naa,
O saathi re...

O my companion,
let the day(happiness/joys) not end.
Come, let's stop the day,
let's run and catch the sun that's falling,
let the shade(sorrows) not touch us,
O my companion.

********

Givenchy (LV is the parent company) deal was finally concluded. Arkins had flown down to Delhi and the team unfortunately included Sheetal(marketing ). Indo-western zardosi work turned out to be exotic for them and things got finalized for 70% as Arnav had expected. Problem was Mr. Arkin had self-invited his family and the core team to Shantivan during the break. The old man was just too forward and ardent to know about Indian culture and meet the family of young man esp, his mother-in-law, the person behind the delicate needle work. 

Arnav had had meetings and office parties at RM in the past too but within limits of his privacy that too before Aarav had come in his life. He was skeptical about the old couple's request. They had been screened and found to be harmless by the security and looked genuinely interested. Arnav talked to Khushi about it. She was a bit uncomfortable to decide matters of such huge importance about such prestigious guests but understanding his need for her opinion, she thankfully acted like a hostess would. She brushed off his concerns about Sheetal, the warning about her being not allowed in the house was not at all serious. They discussed the arrangements and Khushi really found it cute that he found it necessary to ask her before inviting Sheetal in. AR had been working on this deal since long, so Khushi knew the importance of the visiting guests, even when she kept herself away from his money and business matters. She knew this was to be executed perfectly as one team, a good hostess regardless of inexperience. 

Next evening, Shantivan hosted a lavish dinner for their guests from Paris with strict 'no official talks' code as requested by Mrs. Arkin. They were delighted to meet the Raizadas and Guptas, fascinated by the joint family. Everyone enjoyed the scrumptious food with easy chats flowing around the table in a tastefully decorated mansion. Aarav occupied everyone's attention something that made his over-protective father squirm in his chair with unease. Arnav was not comfortable introducing his innocent baby to his professional counterparts, so kept him tucked by his side most of the time. He would have kept him safe in pouch, had he been a kangaroo. 

His discomfort of exposing his family ebbed down as the evening progressed on lighter notes. Their guests were very elegant and sensitive enough to respect host's privacy while indulging themselves in various discussions with his family. There were conversations about music, Bollywood, Indian cuisines, delicacies and traditional dresses. Sheetal tried to bring in brands and all but Ms. Arkin brushed aside it as a boring topic. Brands are not the only way of life, who better than brand owners know that. 

Khushi enjoyed being herself at the table, putting in her cents when required. She realized she had been nervous coz of her prejudices, fearful of making mistakes. It had gone all well, everyone faltered here and there in topics outside their niche. Arnav had been supportive and right that it was a normal dinner with normal people so she should relax and be herself. There were dissents too, but were beautifully accepted with no one actually showing displeasure even if offended by some remark. 

Nani,the matriarch of RM, didn't try to show superiority of their Indian culture and sounded eager to know and appreciate others' too. She appreciated Mrs Arkin's knowledge of Indian culture and was being respectful while talking about differences and similarities between the two. Soon the forbidden topic - business talks of fashion and market paved its way occupying attention of most. 

Khushi was getting bored with the damned discussion, sitting beside Arnav while her gang easily conversed on other side of table about their restaurants and food with other guests. Sheetal smirked when she saw her distracted. She found the moment perfect to put Khushi on spot without highlighting her real intentions that were to point out how different she was from Arnav, a mismatch. What could a Maths student possibly know about fashion. It was already so ridiculous that these two completely different persons made a baby together! Not having any idea of Khushi's pregnancy, she was on her mission to make Arnav realize, how embarrassing Khushi can be when she ll fumble now like a 'small town gawar'(illiterate, here it is in context of not much fashion sense) who has little knowledge about fashion. The nerd should move on with some Maths professor n leave her fashionista man alone. Their incompatibility was visible even to blind man! She didn't know that it was she who was being selectively blind in her fanning her old desires, behaving like a foolish, delusional woman who can see every damn thing but truth. That its idiotic to think that only people with fashion have class.

Her sly attempt failed when Khushi confidently tried to bypass the topic, "I know thing or two about color coordination and fabrics but fashion on whole isn't my thing. I have little knowledge there. My opinion will most probably be novicey, might even be contrary to whats trending. So, excuse me for this one." Sheetal breathed a relief when another guest became sweetly persistent that wife of fashion mogul would certainly know about current trends, what else could be more interesting to talk with her stylish husband. 

Arnav was about to intervene when Khushi jokingly asked the guest's 'opinion' on most popular Maths theorem. Room fell silent coz everyone had used it in school days but who the hell in their sane mind ll have an opinion about a theorem except the expert!  Mr. Arkin burst out laughing at her humorous way of making the point that same applies to current trends in their business. Why should a person always have opinion about everything you come across or be in risk of sounding not a very aware person. You can always to have no opinion, no idea about something and it ll be pretty fine. That doesn't make you less knowledgeable person. Arnav was glad to see how smoothly she silenced two annoying women, not intimidated by them at all. It was stupid anyways to think that husband-wife should have thorough knowledge of each other's profession. 

Well, the guests were completely charmed visiting Shantivan, expressing their heartfelt thanks for luscious dinner on such a short notice. While Arshi were busy with the old couple, Sheetal pulling 'lonely' and 'curiosity' card on elder ladies got herself invited to stay at RM for upcoming wedding functions of Lavanya and NK. She had already got her leaves for a month sanctioned from LV. She was hoping for a transfer to Delhi branch otherwise would have to join AR in near future. She smiled as she was completely geared up to observe, act and replace Khushi. Her audacity was just too much coz both NK and La's families were staying at ManMahal along with their guests.

********

Khushi was not so pleasantly shocked when she came home from Uni next day. Sheetal had brought in her luggage in afternoon and was received well by the family. They had no idea that the couple disliked her presence. For them, Khushi had herself extended the invitation to Sheetal during Lavanya's engagement party. They had no reason to act cold with Arnav's Harvard batchmate and Lavanya's 'friend'. For elders, Sheetal was a soft spoken, good-natured girl who has not forgotten her Indian roots and was really looking forward to enjoy a desi wedding and Indian culture. Sheetal acted sweet with Khushi just like the last evening, hugging and beaming like long lost friends. She apologized for putting her on spot by asking her opinion yesterday, how she had no intention of causing discomfort, a genuine mistake and all. She was successful in removing all negative thoughts about her from Khushi's mind. She just has to control her drooling sessions on ASR, so that no one detects her real intentions esp., Khushi, a social climber, she scoffed in her thoughts.  

Arnav could not understand how Khushi was being all cool about the unwanted guest staying here for so long when she had herself warned him that the witch should not enter RM in first place! He personally found Sheetal staying in his home weird but decided to stay quiet for sake of NaLa. She seemed harmless( he was too busy in his wife to pay attention to things around) but he would throw her out in a blink if she caused any discomfort to Khushi. Last thing he wanted was, Khushi leaving him holding onto the next possible excuse - presence of his ex-gf in their home when he had no role in the whole fiasco. He talked to Khushi who was herself confused. After observing her for some days, they concluded that maybe she was really interested in festivities and wanted to enjoy her holidays in India after working her ass off.

Arnav - Khushi went for their first checkup. Reports were fine and the medical history was already known to the Doctor. After giving details about things like due date, activities and food that was barred and all, she came to the main topic. She didnt know how to explain it without making them nervous, she had first hand seen Arnav's panic. Everything was alright but considering the delivery of Aarav, she prescribed an additional tablet besides routine ones. It was for diminishing chances of placenta accreta or case of remnant one because patients with such history have been observed to have a chance of re-occurrence. There was nothing to be tensed about as she ll take all precautions or go for C-section. Couple calmed down at that. The dosage was low for now coz tablet may induce hormonal changes, Khushi may suffer from nausea, dizziness and mood swings. They can contact her in case other side-effects occur. Reminding them the importance of remaining stress-free in pregnancy, she scheduled next visit after a month. 

Sheetal had behaved silent and sweet till she formed a strategy using information, she had meticulously collected.It was tough considering there was no articles, nothing in public domain thanks to Arnav. Her attempts to become friendly with Aarav were successful and again not noticed by others, From him, she got to know that boy slept between his parents. Servants were  loyal to the T and she didnt want to raise suspicion with too much emphasis on extracting information from them. She also came to know that Payal and Khushi were sisters from Lucknow, both marriages were held together around 4 years ago. Khushi must have tagged along with her sister as they landed in one of the richest families of India, all thanks to so called arranged marriages in India that family tried to portray as love-marriages. God these people suck! She couldn't understand how could their family live with the daughters in RM! Well her main concern was to help Arnav escape this stilted love-less marriage! What is life without love anyways? She was pained seeing how much ASR compromised for sake of his family. She knew from their college days that he loved his sister too much. Must have surrendered to her emotional blackmail. Anjali should have found a perfect girl like her. With her he would have had compatibility, likes, dislikes, lifestyle, intelligent discussions besides Love. Most importantly, Khushi clearly didn't respect Arnav the way she should. These typical small town women add 'ji' after husband's name to show off the sanskaar before family but dont respect them in real. Khushi had taken away all his trademark smugness, arrogance that was her ASR's oomph factor! But why was he even tolerating such a wife for so long was beyond her understanding, maybe he was still under family pressure. ASR was an Alpha male, superior than Greek gods and such powerful men are revered everywhere in the world. He was a wet dream come true with all that maleness and scorching hot figure enhanced by that chiseled  and shadowed brooding face. She reminisced how his dark personality was an instant hit with girls at Harvard, an angry young man who had charmed every girl! It was all lost now and he had to settle with a middle class simpleton from a small town Lucknow. A chit of girl has made his life unbearable! It was her duty to remind his family who the real ASR was, the power he held over world.

As per her new resolution, delusional Sheetal would throw some remarks here and there with a sweet smile and not directly pointing out  Khushi. She would sugarcoat her statements. For eg., how surprising it was that Arnav spent so much time home. how does he manage to run his empire with so many distractions? How do 'they' gel along with contrasting personalities? It must have taken so much efforts for the girls to adjust here, in a place so diff. from their small hometown. Every remark was so smartly twisted that no one could take offense, like a genuine curiosity. She was in marketing field afterall. 

But Sheetal had no idea that all her efforts are going to be wasted. Unknown to her, ASR's family was very happy with his changed temperament, knew very well of the struggles 'they' had gone through to come here. She had no idea that 'they' were excitedly waiting for their second one while she was busy making plans to separate them. She could not see a simple fact that was  impossible for a normal person to ignore - Arnav was head over heels in Khushi(love). 

October came soon and NaLa wedding ceremonies began with kuldevi pooja at the temple by their parents. Everyone was excited to enjoy the festivities thoroughly. Khushi was one of those people but she was not allowed to be 'hyper-active' by one and only nemesis, her arch rival, spoilsport, roadblock of all fun - Arnav Singh Raizada. Arnav had little interest in noise, drama and huge gatherings but he had to be there to keep eye on two miscreants and no to mention the smiles his presence brought on everyone's face was worth it. Khushi was around 10 weeks now and was doing pretty well still he wanted to keep eyes on his clumsy wife amidst all the hullabaloo. Morning sickness had started but it was not troubling her much but the aforesaid mood swings had started to show their presence and he was not yet complaining. Just wait and watch Raizada!

 Khushi was getting ready in their room to go downstairs for La's mehendi. Her outfit was green and yellow. Green was the color of occasion and yellow was her sunny personality. Arnav entered the room and passed completely unwanted, provoking but a witty comment at her dress, "Tum ye auto-rickshaw ban kar kahan ja rahi ho". Riled up Khushi was fun to watch anyday.("Where are you going all dressed up like auto-rickshaw")

" Ek dum sahi socha tha humne aapke baare mein!"(I was so right about you!), Khushi sneered glaring at him from the mirror of the dressing table. She was shocked at the exact poor remark she had once imagined about. Arnav had 'what? written on his face at this remark.

 Khushi mocked his unromantic bones by describing the accurate scene, she had visualized while frying jalebi after she had realized that she was in love with him. He had been everywhere... autowala, guard, JP.  Arnav was amazed that she had imagined correct response, that she knew him so well even in those days. He smiled at her animated talks of stars, flowers and Disney dreams...she was so cute, so naive, so childish. Who could tell she was mother of a one and carrying another!

After doing touch up to look better, Khushi got up and turned towards him, "Acha suno, sach mein achi nahi lag rahi kya?", hoping he would say some nice words now. Hormones wanted tareefs(praise)("Tell me. Is it really not looking good?")

"Umhnh", he pursed lips in a no. "Red hoti to..."("Red would look better") making her furious.

"Red Red Red! Red hoti to Mumbai ki double decker lagti!!!! ", Khushi was suddenly angry at his obsession with red! ("Red red red! Red would look like Mumbai's double decker bus") 

 "Nonsense! You look so beautiful in red."

"Aur abhi? Is rang mein hum ekdum bakwas lag rahe hain? Matlab hum sundar hain nahi, bas laal  pehen kar lagte hain! "("And now? I m looking ugly in this color? You want to say I m not beautiful but just look so in red saree?") Tears started dripping down within seconds. Arnav was too bewildered to speak. Irritated and now openly sobbing, Khushi started to pull at the pins on the saree, those which she had set with so much efforts. She had taken so much time to dress up and this man! 

Arnav had no intention to make her cry. Honestly speaking, he didnt like the color so went on to tease her but he never thought it could snowball into this. That she ll change the saree. He stood confused at the sudden change in her demeanor. From teasing to angry to weeping in a second. Hormones you idiot! His brainwa suddenly woke up and swiftly went for damage control. Khushi was now furiously wiping her tears and searching for another saree in cupboard. He whispered in her ears, hugging her from behind, "Sorry Baby, I was just teasing, messing up with you. You are looking really gorgeous!! So beautifullll... " 

kabhi kabhi yoon karna
main daantoon aur tum darna,
ubal pade aankhon se,
meethe paani ka jharnaa.

sometimes, it should be that,
I'll scold you, and you be scared.
And then let fall of sweet water
come bubbling out of your eyes.(We'll make up sweetly)

"Sach mein?"("Really"), Khushi turned around eagerly, so lost in his words that she couldn't realise he was fooling her. Nodding, Arnav praised her some more as he wiped her face clean and secured all the pins back. Twenty minutes later, after settling her down with ladies gathered for the ceremony, Arnav huffed a sigh of relief. What the hell is wrong with him!! He needs to revise all those pregnancy notes from Aarav's time and completely stop teasing her or be ready for tears at drop of hat. He had poked the bull himself.

Sheetal who had seen him sighing took it in another context, that Arnav was relaxed being away from Khushi. Now in a jovial mood, Khushi enjoyed teasing Nacha-Nachi of Aarav thoroughly. NK got his fiance's name,various nicknames written on his hands, showing it to every-passerby how bandar his hands looked.Yeah, people nodded at lunatic dukha/dulha(groom) whatever he was. La was not far behind in getting laughed at, the superb talent she had acquired from her hone wala(to-be) 'gati'  (pati-Husband ; gati- condition). 

It was sangeet next day and Khushi was sulking coz she was only one not allowed to dance. Her mood brightened up with an amazing surprise, she received. Various performances were dedicated to the couple and now there was this last one from Nannav. Arnav let NaLa clap enthusiastically for this gift before he cleared that this one was for his wife, not for them. 

Arnav and Aarav danced to a Salman Khan song making Khushi all delighted. It was Biwi No. 1, a song penned down with the sole purpose of flattering one's wife. Khushi loved this fantabulous performance of her men. Aarav was simply moving here and there on stage while Daddy tried hard to impress Mumma with his moves. Khushi cheered him loudly at every step, every tareef,  he lip-synced as Mami whistled in appreciation. 

Both A's received infinite kisses from her as soon as they got down the stage and not to mention, the number of cooties Aarav's parents exchanged that night as he slept peacefully.

https://youtu.be/K57rF5Rv0YE

Anjali organised as many poojas as she could fit in gap between consequent ceremonies. Haldi was enjoyed like a Holi with Aarav behaving better than bride and groom. Soon it was day of Wedding ceremony. While Khushi had attended many weddings in past three years, Arnav had not been to even one.He had no interest and after his own disastrous one, he didn't want to attend these. 

He was apprehensive how Khushi ll behave. He didn't want all this to be hurtful for her. Khushi puzzled him by being all cool about it. She didn't show any sign of distress and it was really a breather for him. He didnt poke her with too many question of 'tum theek ho?', if she was okay and all. Dinner helped him to converse with her without being awkward as he filled up their plate with various delicacies demanded by Aarav n Khushi. 

It was time for pheres and Arnav asked them, if they wanted to go rest in their suite. Both refused and soon Aarav was sleeping in his lap as flames began to light the agnikund. Khushi sat through it all, not flinching once. She even showered the couple with rose petals as they took the rounds taking vows for seven lifetimes of togetherness. Khushi was genuinely happy for her friends, wishing them all the happiness in the world. 

Arnav felt less guilty that she was not distressed recalling theirs, that her bad experiences with him had not scarred her for life. He hoped they could complete their phere too. He didn't know when his right hand involuntarily moved to clasp her left one in a promise. Khushi tilted her head to rest against his chest, still smiling at visibly glowing La and NK. She was not brave enough to turn and look into his eyes that must be gleaming with hope. It was not easy for her to sit beside him through this and not remember things but she was here, trying to move on for their happiness, peace of mind. That they have attended a relative's wedding together so smoothly, without tears, was a feat in itself. Arnav pressed a kiss in her hair that smelled heavenly coz of faint scent of gajra tied around the bun at her nape. His hand went around her to hold her closer. They ll have phere one day for sure. Now, they were family of four trying to be happy in their small little world.

teri meri angni mangni
ang sang laagi sangni
sang le jaaun, O pihu re

You and I are for each other,

we are together, body and soul,

I'll take you with me, O dear one.

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

Sheetal had a strange filter which acted impermeable to the love emanating from the couple. She had wired herself so negative towards Arshi that she couldn't see the stark truth before her naked eyes. She became desperate as nothing seemed to work in her favour. Newlyweds had already left for honeymoon and soon she ll have to leave too. She had failed to incite a dislike for Khushi among family members and present herself as right bride for Arnav. ASR had not spend a minute alone with her, maybe due to his family was her consolation. She had no idea why these blind people couldn't see how Khushi was making the formidable ASR dance to her tunes, on her little pinky finger. It was so abnormal!! Also, the idiots at LV had transferred her to Mumbai office instead of Delhi. Sheetal became vigorous as less than a week was left for her departure. Thickheaded Raizadas can't understand veiled remarks so its time she made direct attacks. A move that proved fatal. 

She mocked how Khushi behaves so childish like Aarav, joking that Arnav should make sure he turns out to be more like his father rather than his crazy mother. Extra praises for Arnav and jibes at Khushi didn't go well with anyone and Khushi asked her to explain why she was insulting her. Seeing that things heated up pretty fast, Sheetal made some excuses that it was a joke, one should not act spoilsport and all. Arnav had just opened his mouth to reply when Khushi gave her a scathing reply like she is not her friend to joke with her. The table went silent at that. Things continued like that.Family caught Sheetal shouting on HP for spilling water on her dress.The' sweet' girl had been very harsh that day. She was provoking Khushi again and again.Everyone wanted her out now, but how? You can't simply ask a guest to leave, Lucknavi manners you see.

Khushi and Arnav talked about her increasing intolerable behavior, how she was getting on her nerves. "Ye Sheetal humein gussa dila rahi hai. Arnavji ek baar aur usne hum ulta sidha bola ya aapki taraf dekha bhi to Devi Maiyya ki kasam hum zinda nahi chodenge usse. Aap kal usko yahan se jaane ko bolo. Shaadi to ek hafte phele ho chuki na, to ab kya humari shakal dekhne baithi hai vo yahan?"(This Sheetal is provoking me. If she spoke one more word against me or I found her drooling at you, I ll kill her I swear! You just ask her to leave tomorrow morning. Wedding's done long back then what the hell is she even doing here?)

"Excuse me? Maine invite nahi kiya usko yahan, tumne kia hai. So, you should throw her out and I suggest soon coz I dont want you to land up in jail"("Excuse me? I didnt invite her here, you did. So YOU throw her out.I suggest soon coz I dont want you to land up in jail")

"Throw out? Aise kaise kisi ko seedha jaane ko bol sakte hain? Aur aapka project kharab nahi hoga? Itni mehnat ki hai..." ("Throw out? How can I directly ask her to leave? Wont it affect your project? You have been working so hard for it")

"First thing Sheetal is just a marketing manager, it wont affect the project. Second and most important thing, I would have cancelled the deal had it been Arkins in Sheetal place. Tum kaisi si ho Khushi?(What kind of weak person you are ? ). She is continuously insulting you sitting in your house and you can't even throw her out? Are you such a weakling? Tum sirf mujh par hi sher ho kya?(You act like boss only in front of me!)"

Both Arnav and Aarav egged her on.

Next day, Arnav prepared red sauce pasta with extra garlic, extra cheese and lots of chili on demand from Khushi. Sheetal couldn't tolerate that he set aside all his work and went into kitchen just coz his wife ordered him to make pasta!!! How ridiculous! Her patience was lost when Khushi instead of praising ASR for his efforts called it too spicy. Arnav shrugged that she asked for extra chili and Khushi got miffed that he had intentionally put the whole packet so that she cant eat it. A grumbling Khushi added curd and sugar to it as everyone looked at her sanak.  Arnav was about to offer that he'll make pasta again but Sheetal was eager to axe her foot. She didn't even take time to think about potential danger from a person who was eating such strange combination. She was simply dying to be thrown out. 

Putting a break to Khushi's ramblings, she started her own rant "Khushi, Just grow up already! You middle class girls think that husbands are your servant?They should dance to your tunes? Look at him, he has no need to give into your stupid demands every now and then. Girls die for his one look and you are throwing tantrums after slogging him in kitchen whole morning. This is despicable!! Why is he even tolerating you? Arnav you really dont need to..."

Khushi indicated Nisha to take Aarav to the poolside. Keeping her spoon back in plate, she addressed Sheetal, "Uth! Chal uth. Nikal yahan se."(Get up! I said get up and leave !!! ) She had had enough

"Excuse me?"

"You heard it right, Get out"

"This is the way you talk to guests? Don't you have manners", Sheetal stood up, baffled, feeling thoroughly insulted. She suspected she heard some muffled giggles too.

"Nahi hai manners. Ab bol kya karegi? HPji please iske bags baahar fikwa dijiye. Get out Shit-al"("Yes, I don't have manners. Now what 'll you do? HP please throw her bags out. Get out Sheetal") HP was more than eager to return some insults.He controlled his laugh as he nodded to his Bhabhi

"Who the hell are you to throw me out? This is Arnav's house!!"

Khushi faltered for a second, looking blank. Arnav till then was busy suppressing his glee like others. He saw his dragon had stopped breathing fire and sat immobile, blank. Not liking it one bit, he pressed her thigh under the table. His eyes asking her to burn the witch, spew some venom, show her who's boss. He wanted her to claim him, her home, her rights. Khushi looked at him and understood his unsaid plea to not give up on him. 

teri meri atti-patti,
daant se kaati katti,
phire jaiyyo na,
O pihu re.

let's have a pact
(like children often make)
a solid one,
don't ever let go,
O dear one.

O pihu re,
naa jaiyyo naa.

O dear one,
Never go away.

He was earnestly asking her to say it and she did that. "Wrong. This is my home. I am the mistress of this house, perfectly capable of taking decisions even on my husband's behalf. Moreover I(she pointed towards herself) invited you here, though it was nothing but a courtesy call. So, it is fit that I throw you out too. If you dont want me to insult you further then please leave or I know other ways to escort you out."

"I can't believe this. You all are giggling instead of stopping this middle-class fool from insulting your guest", Sheetal couldn't digest that whole lot of the cultured bunch were giggling like fools in background as Khushi went on insulting her. Bloody Lucknavi bullshit!!! Arnav opened his mouth to give her a scathing reply but one look from Khushi quietened him. No need of bhow-bhow in a catfight.

"Abuse me once more Sheetal and you won't EVER recognize your face. We middle class enjoy facework too. HPji please ek last kaam aur kar dijiye. Nitaji se keh dijiye, iss high-class ko baahar fenk dein" ("Abuse me once more Sheetal and you won't ever recognize your face. We middle class enjoy facework too. HPji please do one last task. Ask Nitaji to throw away this high-class woman")

Sheetal couldn't just believe it, "Whats wrong with everyone? And Arnav what happened to your taste? You used to date hot and happening women before. How did you agree to settle for this mad woman? Such low standards she has! I mean look at -"

Furious Khushi stood up and so did others. Arnav tried to speak again but Khushi now stood in front of him not letting Sheetal even look at him. "Just get out now Shit-al ! I dont f**king need validation of standards from garbage spewing filth like you. You have already outlived your stay. Leave before I rearrange your face, you know I am so tempted"

"What are you, a street ruffian? I m not scared of you. Arnav, why are you letting this girl boss you so much? This is not you ASR. You are not the same man I dated at Harvard. You are behaving like a loser! You don't need to suffer for sake of your fami...leave my hand(Nita, the lady guard was pulling her away)...Arnav you don't have to bear this foolish woman, I am with you...we can rekindle our relationship. I still love you."

Everyone stood frozen at that. Khushi was shocked. It means Arnav was saying truth that day. She was really his -ex. Her anger increased many-folds. Taking advantage of momentary shock, Sheetal again started, "Yes, guys I m his ex-girlfriend!!!"

"So?", Khushi tried to move towards Sheetal but Arnav held her back whispering in her ear, "No physical fight. Don't forget you are pregnant!!" He now began to realize that he should have simply thrown her out. There was no need to inflame Khushi's anger. It could prove dangerous for baby.

Sheetal didn't know what to reply, how to react to this 'So?'. Didn't this revelation affect Khushi? Shouldn't this be a huge issue for a wife? What kind of fucked up person this low-chit was? Her husband's ex was standing there, proclaiming love and she had nothing to say just a 'So?'  

Arnav marched to Nita who was again trying to drag Sheetal out, "Sheetal apologise to Khushi"

"Arnav, listen to me, I really love you. We have the chemistry, the compatibility you can never have with this woman. I ll keep you so happy. Just leave this unworthy woman", she tried to show 'reality' to Arnav. 

Khushi came forward and held Arnav's hand stopping him from shouting at delusional Sheetal. It was clear that the woman was obsessed with Arnav, it was better to handle her calmly. "Sheetal, he does not love you. He may have dated you in past but he IS my husband. He loves me and is very happy with me. So, stop worrying about him"

"You are lying. He hates you. He loves me, only me", Sheetal shook her head again and again leaving everyone shocked. 

"I never ever loved you, fanatic lady! And I don't need to tell strangers how much I love my wife, my Khushi. So just apologize to her and Get Out"

"Arnav??"

"I SAID APOLOGISE DAMMIT!!!", his eyes threatening her with direst consequences.

"So...rr..y Khushi", Sheetal complied seeing every single person present there looked hostile, all were against her.

"We hope never to see you again. GET OUT", he barked and Nita took her away.

Sheetal couldn't believe Arnav can speak to her like this. He was completely under Khushi's control!

Questions rained on him as soon as Sheetal left. Khushi defended him that he had already told her to throw Sheetal out yesterday and he had told her about ex-gf thing long back but she took it as a joke. 

thakaa-thakaa sooraj jab
nadi se ho kar niklega,
hari-hari kaai pe
paon pada to phislega,

When the tired sun
passes through the river,
if its foot falls on the green moss,
he might slip (and fall into the river -> meaning roadblocks may hinder our bliss)

tum rok ke rakhna,
main jaal giraaun,
tum peeth pe lena,
main haath lagaaun,
din Doobe naa...

You hold it,
and I'll spread the net (to fish the sun out)
you carry it on your back,
and I'll help with that,
let the day not end.(We'll together manage to save our paradise)

Most important question from his ridiculous family was "Why did he hold Khushi back, from beating Sheetal?" Arnav sighed at their madness. Did they really forget that Khushi's pregnant !! He was scared of Babuji's reaction to whole fiasco but he had not passed any disapproving look towards him till now. Everyone was glad that Sheetal was out before things turned uglier. They were happy that a third person had not affected Arshi relationship and proud that they dealt with her as a single unit.

********

At night,

Arnav woke up to find Khushi missing from bed. She was working on some equations at her study table, "Khushi? Are you fine? Homework's incomplete?" 

"Neend nahi aa rahi thi to humne socha padh lete hain"("I wan't getting sleep, so thought to study")

"Mujhe utha deti", he closed her books and carried her to poolside recliner. She looked stressed.("You should have woken me up")

"Tell me whats wrong?", he coaxed her. Khushi snuggled into his neck as he covered them with her shawl. Nights were turning cold with arrival of winters. 

"Khushi?", he nudged her head with his cheek as his hands were holding her over him.

"Hmm"

"Don't take stress coz of Sheetal"

"Hum stress nahi le rahe they, padh rahe they", she whispered from his neck, not looking up.("I was not stressed, just studying.")

"Aadhi raat ko?"("At midnight?")

"Haan. Nashtey ke baad saara din to bas so hi rahe they, to ab neend kahan se aati? Aapko pata hai, Maths karne se bacha intelligent paida hota hai. Jaise Aarav"("Yes, I slept whole day after breakfast fiasco, so couldn't sleep. Do you know that babies become intelligent when mother studies Maths in pregnancy. Like Aarav"), she now looked up, at him, glad to have found a distraction.

"Khushi, Aarav is sharp coz I m smart and intelligent. Isliye nahi ki tumne Maths padhti thi"("Khushi, Aarav is sharp coz I m smart and intelligent. Not coz you studied Maths"), he teased her.

"Haan bilkul. Hum to hain hi bewakoof. Humein to admission bhi aapki wajah se mila hai! Don't forget you are just post-graduate n soon I ll be Dr. Khushi Gupta! Hmpff" ("Ofcourse! And his mother is a certified fool, right? I even got admission in Ph.D coz of your intelligence! Don't forget you are just post-graduate and soon I ll be Dr. Khushi Gupta!Hmpff")

"Khushi main common sense ki baat kar raha tha."(I was talking about common sense), Arnav said sarcastically. Khushi started to sit for proper fight and he pulled her back, "Tum kya keh rahi thi, intelligent bache Maths karne se hote hain?" (What were you saying? Babies become intelligent by doing Maths?)

"Haan"(Yes)

"to irritated bache gussa karne se hote honge?"("'Irritated 'kids are born coz of anger?")

"Haan bilkul"(Yes, ofcourse)

"Aur pyare bache kiss karne se?"("And adorable ones by kissing ?")

"Haan..... Aap...aap kitne chalak ho... aur besharam bhi!!!"(Yes...you... you are such a clever fox! Shameless one!!), she made a face.

"Com'on Khushi let's ensure our baby is sweet". He swallowed her "baby dekh le..."(Baby'll see).

 Which person in right frame of mind wouldn't want lovely kids!

O saathi re
din doobe naa, doobe na...

O my companion,
let the day(happiness/joys) not end.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

PRECAP :

"Kahaan thi tum?" ("Where were you")

"Kyun? Aapke jasoos pata nahi kar paye kaunse aashiq se milne gayi thi?" ("Couldn't your spies find out which loverboy I met today?")

"KHUSHI!!!!!!", he thundered in menace, warning her to behave.

*******

Some pointers

> Don't get frustrated with the precap. Finally the main issue between them has bubbled up and we all know what it is.

> Can you guess who is the dating Anjali? The person has already been mentioned in the story. A very intelligent guess it ll be.

> Why can't Arnav see beyond red? Men and their obsession with a particular color on their wives is very common. Mumma once told us how it took 5 years for Dad to give up his obsession of red sarees and buy another color. I have no qualms with red but yes, it's not the only color in the world. That 'utna bhi bura nahi lagta' for emerald green saree where Khushi looked fabulous is reality. Coz his answer for acha(one that looks good) ll always be RED.

> Nani's experience with Lavanya had made her more respectful to ways of life that are different from her, different culture. That maan maryada has different parameters for different people. Be it clothes, way of greeting, expressing affection or type of commitment. She now knows that there is no single mould of being ideal spouse/partner or a person with good character. People who hug and kiss instead of touching feet also respect you. Infact the 'ideal' Shyam and 'unsuitable' La were eye-opener that a clean heart is above cultures. She no longer gets scandalized at 'so called horrible things' like live-in. All five couples in her house are different from each other with their own set of flaws and strengths. They are happy with each other and no one is hurt, is what matters in the end.

'll update plagiarism note as soon as I get an update.Thank you everyone for your support.

THANK YOU FOR TAKING YOUR TIME OUT FOR THIS STORY. DONT FORGET TO VOTE BY CLICKING * IF YOU LIKED THIS CHAPTER. DONT FORGET TO COMMENT AND SHARE YOUR VIEWS. AND YEAH, FOLLOW ME TO GET NOTIFICATIONS REGARDING UPDATES.

Q & A HAS BEEN UPDATED. YOU CAN CLEAR YOUR DOUBTS AND POST YOUR OWN, IF ANY.

MOST IMPORTANT THING: WITH EASING OF LOCKDOWN, PLEASE DON'T BECOME CARELESS. TO WHOM DOES IT MATTER MOST IF YOU LIVE OR DIE? TO YOU, YOURSELF. 

SO PLEASE LETS REMAIN VIGILANT AND TAKE PRECAUTIONS AGAINST THE INVISIBLE ENEMY.

HERE IS LINK TO A ONE-SHOT I WROTE :

https://www.wattpad.com/837316217-the-breakable-liberation-is-it-complete.

Direct link is in my profile.