THOSE WHO MISSED TO VOTE ON INDIVIDUAL CHAPTER WHILE READING IN FLOW, PLEASE TAKE OUT 5 MINUTES AND VOTE ON THE PARTS THAT YOU THINK DESERVE IT. IT MEANS A LOT TO WRITER. LOW VOTING CREATES DOUBTS AND MISCOMMUNICATION.

YOU CAN ALWAYS POST YOUR QUESTIONS REGARDING PLOT LINE, POV AND ANY OTHER DOUBT IN Q & A IN TABLE OF CONTENTS or IN THE CONCERNED CHAPTER. IF YOU ARE NOT COMFORTABLE IN POSTING IN COMMENT SECTION, PLEASE SEND YOUR REMARK IN INBOX DIRECTLY. THANK YOU.

I AM REALLY SORRY FOR NOT UPDATING THE STORY SINCE JUNE 23rd. MY WORK DIDN'T ALLOW ME BREATHER. HoL BEING A PROPER DETAILED STORY NEEDS TIME AND CONCENTRATION. I HOPE YOU UNDERSTAND. BTW THIS IS 10000+ WORDS UPDATE. HAVE A GOOD READING. 

DON'T FORGET TO PLAY THE SONG. ITS BEAUTIFUL JUST LIKE OTHER SONGS FROM 'TAAL'

Not proofread

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

Next morning,

Arnav woke up much later than usual. Aman had informed him around 7 that the critically injured one was also out of danger now. He searched for Khushi, she ll feel better with this information. She was in fragile state last night, must be hell- worried after 'killing' good for nothing goons! 

He had just called HP to enquire about her when he saw her walking in with pooja plate. Okay, so madam was chatting with her bff at temple. And  here, he was looking  for her in whole damn house. He should have guessed it.

As he opened his mouth, Khushi stuffed a tiny peda in his mouth.

"Yaar bata kar jaya karo na! 15 minute se dhoondh raha hoon."("Should have informed me before leaving na. 've been searching you for fifteen minutes ")

"Humein laga aapke uthne tak vapis aa jayenge.  Par vahan time ka pata hi nahi chala. Aapko pata hai mandir poora khali tha. Bahot maza aaya!", Khushi answered with a dreamy look, still lost in temple bells.("I thought, I would be back before you get up but then lost track of time there. You know, I had whole temple to myself today. I had so much fun!")

Arnav rolled his eyes at that. What's with women in this house and their obsession with temples and satsangs. His wife is over the moon bcoz temple was all empty. What a pious young lady!  Well, this is truth of his life - temple, jalebis and not him are blind bet in Khushi's case. He almost felt sorry for himself but shrugged these thoughts away and asked the most important question, caressing her face, "Feeling better?"

Khushi nodded as they went back to their room, discussing the updates. He was relieved that she wasn't white as a ghost like yesterday night,  looking much better now, not numb, passive person, who had drawn blood for first time in life. And in her words,  credit of sorting her thoughts goes to her 'Devi Maiyya- her best friend, magical guide of her life'.

Khushi took his hand and inspected the wound for nth time since last night, almost paranoid about it, "I know I shouldn't say this, its wrong but now I am feeling glad that I hit them so badly. You know, this gang has 8 cases of murder, 20 cases of robbery and 45 cases of burglary against them. In one of the robbery cases - they killed a young family of three who were on two-wheeler. The child was just 5!"

"That's what I was trying to tell you yesterday. Killing someone in self-defense is not a crime and such unscrupulous ones deserved every bit of it.  I 'll make sure they languish in jail for rest of their lives.......Khushi, I am in awe of quick wit and to be honest, a little less worried about your trip"

Yeah, he himself was feeling a lot calmer though he hadn't yet, gathered himself around the fact that this innocent, child-like woman is a lethal weapon, so dangerous, with a solid presence of mind to call security, dial 100 and search for weapon. She could have simply sat inside car, crying for help and doing nothing - an act that  would be filmy but not feminine at all.He shuddered at the same time thinking that he would have had stitches, bandages all over his head, had even one of her strong shots landed on him. 

Till this incident, he would have smiled at picture of Khushi hitting him but after last night, he knew that blood trickling down to his face would be nothing to smile about. 

"Aap bilkul pareshan mat hoiye. Hum sab sambhal lenge. Ab to humne aapko demo bhi dikha diya kal", she said proudly. Arnav could help roll his eyes at the over-confidence. Now, she must be thinking herself to be more powerful than a gang-leader! Crazy girl! He 'll give a reminder to security team to never leave her alone. ("You dont worry, I ll handle everything. And yesterday, I even gave you a demo")

*

It was 29th August, Khushi, Buaji and kids were leaving for Zurich at 9 am next morning to reach there by 12:00 Hrs local. Arnav and his team 'd leave for Ahmedabad in another jet with 11 am clearance. So, he wouldn't need to go to airport again when he already has little time to spare from the project. He was busy in his conference-calls while Khushi was busy rechecking all bags, nervous with 'I think forgot this, Oh God, I forgot to pack that' syndrome, ticking lists for 4th time, in her last minute packing. Aarav and Arushi couldn't understand this chaos in the room from a week. 

But devils that they were, they couldn't help increase it by throwing things here and there, scanning packed bags, cupboards, making their own choices about which teddy, car, clothes to pack, reject and repack; getting on nerves of their mother, turning her more and more jittery, who just wanted to get done with this never ending packing and get some rest. Becoming parents is an enthralling experience that comes with one very amazing free gift attached with  dearest package of your life and that free gift is - End of Peace.

NK video-called at right moment and everyone breathed a sigh of relief as pests got busy making Eiffel tower, Disneyland, Eurostar, Amusement Parks, London eye plans with him. Frowning at hustle-bustle in the room, duo left for toy room where they could talk freely, without disturbance. Aloo was happiest person in this world coz he wouldn't need to go to school for three months, whole freaking three months!! His over-concerned mother had already made him take extra-classes in summer holidays for this grand holiday. Now he was waiting eagerly for this trip. Khushi breathed a sigh of relief, after jostling for another hour. Things looked under control finally!  Poor girl had just settled down on recliner when a loud cry of Her Highness came from the toy room. It seems her half-time was over. She drank a glass of cold water and went to see whats wrong.

Apparently, Aloo who had already been to Disneyland in US wanted to 'explore ' London first and it didn't sit well with his one and half year old tiny, tantrum queen sister. She-devil didn't have any idea what any of these actually mean but was headstrong enough to quash any form of rebellion in her kingdom. She wanted to go to Disneyland ONLY, ordering Aloo to swipe back to its pictures again. He had refused and locked his tablet, teasing her that she can't even pronounce the word properly. So, angry young girl was now screeching and throwing blocks at Aloo, shouting"Dee-zee-lee" on repeated mode.

Arnav graced them with his presence in less than a minute, wanting to know, who made his princess cry, turning blind eye to scattered toys. He somehow calmed down Hela, promising that when Daddy 'll join them there, he 'll take her there as many times as she wanted and to whatever places, they both wanted. All they have to do was stop fighting and trend #SiblingLove. Promise of Disneyland soothed Jr. ASR's bruised ego and  she reluctantly kissed Aloo's nose, their usual peace-making gesture. 

Arnav again explained about his absence for next fifteen days and both pretended as if they were most mature and obedient kids in whole universe, promising they wont trouble Mumma at all, instead help her. Khushi obviously 'no thanked/vetoed' their generous offer of any kind of help -the help that could be anything but help! Nisha put them to bed, glad to be finally 'not on her toes'. God knows what ruckus they 'll create on this trip! She patted them to sleep, wondering why does she even love these little devils so much. Arshi meanwhile went through documents that would be needed at the University. Arnav assured his anxious wife that nothing was missing. Even if something was left behind, he would get soft-copy mailed to her and about other things, she can always ask staff to get it for her and other instructions. Khushi nodded in understanding.

She warned him to take full care of himself in her absence, "Arnavji, I know project is hectic and you have no time to spare but if you missed a single meal or dose or didn't sleep for full 8 hours to humse bura koi nahi hoga. Phele hi bata rahein hain!" ("Arnavji, I know project is hectic and you have no time to spare but if you missed a single meal or dose or didn't sleep for full 8 hours then you 'll see worst side of me. I am warning you before-hand!")

Arnav sulked at that. He 'll be all alone now, she wouldn't be there to do all these things, pester him. He 'll have to come back to an empty apartment, sleep all alone in cold bed with no kids, no wife for full fifteen days. He 'll not face any of these, only if, this woman stayed back, just postponed her internship! How 'll he manage for so many days without her? It 'll be very difficult. He sat down on bed, feeling morose, "Tumse zyada bura hai bhi kaun? Akela chod kar ja rahi ho mujhe..........Sahi kehte hai sab, biwiyan na jeene deti hain na marne"("You ARE already worst...going away...leaving me all alone here. It's true, wives wont let you live nor let you die")

"Biwiyan? (her eyes narrowed to slits)........... Kitni biwiyan hain aapki?", Khushi asked with hand on hip.("Wives?(her eyes narrowed to slits)........... How many wives do you have?")

Amused that the most irrelevant part of his complaint has caught her attention, Arnav's mood shifted to teasing one. His mind-bulbs flickered. She 'll have to say 1, to get 1 in reply and he 'd point out that she has accepted that he is her husband, "Phele tum batao, tumhare kitne pati hain?"("Khushi, first you tell me, how many husbands do you have?")

"Hmpff!! Ek bhi nahi!", she retorted, getting back to work, not rising to the bait.("Hmpff!! Not even one!")  

Not taking failed effort to heart, he remarked coolly, "To fir theek hai, meri ek hazaar biwiyan hain! ", fully knowing she 'll burn red in jealousy. ("Alright then, I have 1000 wives!!")

Khushi did turn red as she thumped suitcase on floor. He could have also said none, but that would dent His Highness' high airs, "Wow! That's great Mr. Arnav Sheikh Rangeela! Isse achhi khush-khabri to koi ho hi nahi sakti! 1000 biwiyan! Aur ab tum rehna yahan aaram se, apne shahi harem mein. 15 din baad mere peeche aane ka kasht mat karna. Vo kya hai na, main bhi teen-chaar dhoodh lungi vahan."("Wow! That's great Mr. Arnav Sheikh Rangeela! This is most brilliant news! 1000 wives! You stay here in your royal harem. Don't bother coming to me, after fifteen days. Coz I 'll also get myself three, four there ")

"Kya dhoondh logi?"("What?"), Arnav was confused.

"Pati aur kya?"("Husbands"), Khushi 'duhh'ed. 

"What the!"

Before, non-eco-friendly green Arnav could pounce upon her, Khushi escaped downstairs, "Hum aapke liye burnol laate hain"("I 'll fetch burnol for you"), laughing all the way. Serves him right!  

Grumbles of 'she can't even take a joke',unbelievables, dammits, could be heard in corridor. 

*

Next Morning, 

Arnav once again instructed the staff accompanying Khushi about everything as Khushi and Aru were bidding 'emotional over-the top adieu' to the family. Arnav and Aloo rolled their eyes at the drama. Funny thing was they 'll repeat it again at airport, that was just fifteen minutes away from RM. 

Khushi hugged Mami after the older woman was done crying all over her grand-kids. Mami hugged Khushi back, now crying even louder, amusing everyone. Khushi looked at Arnav in question and he nodded. Mami wiped her eyes,"Hum tumka pramij karat hain, hum bhorld ki bhest sasuma banke dhikayenge, sasuma se bhi bhest. Aur ee baat ye Ankletiya bhi jaldi hi acceptiyayegi. Bas tum humre babiej ka aur apna take-carej. Humko bhi phonewa kar dena kabhi kabhi. Mami bhill mish you Khooossiii"("I promise you, I 'll become best mother-in-law in this world, even better than my MIL. And this Anklet 'll also accept it soon. You take care of yourself and my babies. Do call me also sometimes. I ll miss you Khushi"). Khushi who was already crying started competing with her, both dramebaaz wetting each others' shoulder as they patched up.  

Arnav remembered his talk with Mami few days back. He was glad that finally Mami understood that she needed to respect Khushi and Payal if she wanted them and grand-kids to respect her. How this time she needed to take the first step towards reconciliation as girls had kept their calm even after all misbehavior. He was busy in these thoughts when a blurry-eyed Khushi hugged him and repeated her ciao, "Aapki bhi bahot yaad ayegi. Apna khayal rakhiyega. Hum jaldi aate hain...", ("I 'll miss you too. Take care. I 'll be back soon")

"Khushi! I am accompanying you to airport! Remember, I have a flight too?", he poured water on her emosanal haze. 

Irritated at his over-smartness, his time and again butting-in into her good-byes, she took out his immaculate handkerchief from his left pocket and wiped her eyes, "Haan pata hai. Ab chalein! Itni der se khade khade time waste kar rahe hain". ("Yeah, I know. Let's leave! Himself has been wasting time by idly standing here and taunting me!") Khushi was actually not able to make out his cool, almost aloof demeanor. How come he's suddenly so composed about their going away? What has changed this morning? And why did he fight with her about it earlier then? Was he acting then or is he acting now? She has heard so many tales of husbands who pretend to be sad when wife and kids goes to her parents', simultaneously making party plans with friends, happy to be finally let off the hook. Have they too entered 'I am fine seeing you once in a while', the disillusionment phase for their marriage? He was acting so calm with children too. Why? Maybe, he is too interested in his personal paradise AR, his beloved Aman, darling laptop and that damned bluetooth, he hadn't left once since morning! 

Arnav was actually hoping she 'll change her mind, if he acted all happy about it and trusting her craziness hoped, she would leave with him, for Ahmedabad instead. Coz this woman loves to do exact opposite of what he wants. 

And if this failed, maybe, maybe like those silly movies, she watched; she wouldn't be able to see him off at departures and run back to him. He knew he was being selfish, filmy, dramatic and unreasonable here, but he had no idea how to live otherwise. Fifteen days were just too much when they haven't stayed away for more than 72 hours, since their horrible two-month separation -  that was worse than worst pit of hell.

Nothing of that sort happened throughout the ride or at airport. Khushi didn't offer to accompany him to Ahmedabad. Everyone was calm, without any drama as they had already bid their adieus at home. Now, they were all busy playing with Aloo and Arushi at a private lounge of IGI, as they waited for flight release certificate. Soon, it was time to leave and Arnav hugged his babies close, smothering his munchkins with kisses after kisses. Its very difficult to part with his babies, his heart. They won't be sleeping beside him, on top him, nor kick him in sleep for fifteen nights straight. Khushi gave him a tight hug, kissed his forehead before leaving for departures, forcing herself to control her tears for few more minutes. She has to behave like an understanding wife of AR Head, this is least expected of her. She should focus on her internship instead of troubling him, when he already has a lot in his plate. 

Arnav's theory from the movies climax also came crashing down as she crossed departures, waving a bye and just disappeared. He couldn't believe she was really going. He somewhere nursed a hope that she ll turn around and come back, changing her decision. But this last hope plummeted too. He was right. She is truly a stone-heart! She simply walked away, taking his babies with her. How was he going to survive without them? 

WTF!

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

He couldn't help going after her. He was so foolish expecting her to do something when he himself should have stopped her.

"Mat jao?"("Don't go"), he held her shoulder, turning her to face him, just as she was climbing airstairs. 

"Khushi lets all go to Ahmedabad? We 'll leave for Zurich on 14th"

She looked up, into his vulnerable, almost pleading eyes that were pooled with tears like hers. She knew, next he 'll propose that all four should leave for Zurich now. He was struggling with emotions and so was she. They both 'll feel guilty if other has to compromise with work but dammit, this is hard. Are they being over-dramatic? Is it so difficult to part? No, it is not Khushi.  It was as simple as his other business trips. Control yourself and get a grip. This is not honeymoon phase anymore and you are not a teenager. So act like a mature, normal person, not a love-sick fool. She has to leave. Face the reality - careers are important too.

She glanced upwards to skies and murmured a sorry to her mother, before bending down to unlock the payal(anklet) from her right foot. She traced the invaluable old piece, hugged it to her heart and kissed it in reverence. Amidst sniffles and tears, she slithered her closed hand into the waist coast of a dumb-founded Arnav and kept it inside the shirt pocket of a husband, who would keep her anklet close to his heart whenever he missed her. 

"Jaldi aana"(Come soon), Khushi whispered and smiled at him, eyes glittering in tears.  An overwhelmed Arnav nodded, unable to speak anything. Just as she turned to finally leave, he turned her around and swooped down to capture her trembling lips. This time, it was sweet kiss of 'See you soon', salted with tears of 'I 'll miss you so much'

Dekho chhodke... kis raste vo jaate hain

Saare raste vaapas mere dil ko aate hain

Priyasi!

Look, where she's going, abandoning me

All roads lead back to my heart.

My love!

*

NK and Lavanya picked them from airport, chattering, making plans all the way to guest house. AR Guest house in Reisbach, was a beautiful chalet, surrounded with green lawns, kids fell easily in love with. It was hardly four kilometres from Ramistrasse campus of ETH. This area was known for strolls in lush promenade along Lake Zurich, with Chinese garden and Alpine views. It was a peaceful residential area, with not very sizable population, so Arnav-like. They settled in comfortably with assistance from AR staff that was very helpful and welcoming. Video calls with Arnav and family helped the first fifteen days of her internship to pass smoothly with occasional tears, abrupt cutting of their one-to one calls from his end when it would become too much for him. Kids had started demanding Daddy's physical presence by end of first week. Khushi had tough time explaining that fifteen days means fifteen days not one week, how he was busy in very important project and his reduced number of calls only added to their crankiness. As a temporary solution, their parents started the nightly ritual of story-telling on video call, kids started sleeping early and Arnav a bit late, to synchronize their sleep. Aman kept Khushi in loop with his food, medicines and even meetings - so they wouldn't disturb him during work.

In between all this, they had explored local markets after college hours, trying Swiss cuisines like cheese fondue, biberli, alplermagronen, polenta rosti, birchermuesli, and ofcourse lots of Swiss chocolates. Most enjoyble part was Khushi's conversations with locals, most of them knew German and 'no English'. She felt Swiss in general were stiff people though politeness wasn't missing. 

They had skipped major tourist attractions in Switzerland to enjoy them later with Arnav as Khushi felt Switzerland was too romantic to not feel lonely without Arnav. Two weekends were spent touring London and Paris respectively sans Disneyland coz again "Aru will to visit it with Daddy only", making Arnav's chest swell '56 inch' in father's pride. His free hours were either spent flying between Delhi-Ahmedabad or with his babies on call as they described their new routine and outings to him, trying to pronounce difficult words with his help. Even when he had no time to spare to his thoughts, he still missed them. He wanted to hold them, kiss them, protect his three chicks in his warmth. Whoever said distance doesn't matter 's a fool dammit! 

Buaji had received another cultural shock murmuring HYN at everything. Saving grace was she wasn't very loud about her displeasure, taking care not to hurt local sentiment. Europe was  compared with India at every possible chance. One thing, she was highly impressed with, was Na-La's house. She had live-streamed it on their family chat for two hours! Lavanya had proposed her to stay back here with them, after Arshi would leave for India. She had replied with smiling "Haaye re Nandkishore!" pulling both her and NK's cheeks, very hard, in gratitude. Her star-struck face reminded NK of his 'Hamau do Nandkishore'('I do') nightmares.

Khushi came out of her study room, to find A3 on video call. Aru was trying to focus camera on her nods of  'Yes Papa' as Aloo was trying to reassure Arnav of his maturity, "Yes Daddy, hum Mumma ko bilkul tang nahi karte. Aapko pata hai unko bahot saari big big books mein home work milta hai. Vo pura ni hua to teacher unko scold karegi na?...... Daddy, aapki bullet train yahan jaisi hai? Daddy aapka program kab ayega? Daddy ..."  ("Yes Daddy, we don't disturb Mumma at all! You know, poor Mumma gets so much homework! If she won't complete it then teacher 'll punish her na?.....Daddy, your train is similar to trains here? Daddy when 'll they telecast your program? Daddy this...that")

Nahin saamne...

Nahin saamne, yeh alag baat hai

Mere paas hai,

Mere paas hai, tu mere paas hai

Mere saath hai, mere saath hai

Priyasi!

You're not in front of me,

It's another thing that you're not in front of me

Yet, You're near me,

You're near me, you're near me

You're with me, you're with me

My love!

Khushi admitted they had fared much better than she had originally expected. He was constantly with them, just not physically. Her internship hours were not hectic like her University and it helped her to focus on kids too, who in order to impress their Daddy hadn't fought even once in past fifteen days and tomorrow after foundation ceremony of bullet train project, Arnav 'll be here. She had springs in her step at the mere thought. They watched ceremony live, cheering loudly everytime, Arnav or Akash appeared on TV with two PMs. This was biggest govt. project AR has bagged till date. Khushi video-recorded whole thing and sent it to Arnav. He 'll be so happy to see his munchkins hooting for him. She waited eagerly for his call that evening, before the take-off. He would be here by midnight, she was so excited. Finally, they all 'll be together.

*

Ahmedabad, 

The demand for another station had sprung up at last moment. Nadiad was announced by the leadership at the ceremony, without informing him. Arnav was raging mad at this move. They were taking him lightly as an inexperienced player in this field. He 'll make them pay. But he 'll need to stay back for another two days to resolve it dammit! And who is gonna bear the cost of this new station?

"Why Nadiad?"

"Bhai, it is actually the birth place. It 'll be 142nd birth Anniversary this year. Statue of Unity 'll be ready by next year only. There is pressure from Buml and other cooperatives too."

"Can't believe this! Aman, get me Feasibility Report in three hours"

Arnav got more furious reading the figures, "What the f***! This is not done! We aren't running charity here!"

He met Mr. Vahani and officials involved, clearly stating that either they extend the lease of collection rights to fifty years or

Or?

Get him Zever Project with no involvement of AR in land acquisition. They had not estimated so much resistance from young businessman but Nadiad was very important politically with upcoming state elections and increase in lease years would be highlighted by opposition. Meeting went on till evening. They agreed to give contract of the biggest airport of India to AR but in collaboration with Flughaven Zurich AG. In return, AR 'll have to make sure that unofficial leader of opposition attended the charity shows at the end of AR Designs' Fall-Winter 2017 that 'd be held in last week of September i.e., next to next week. It was necessary to counter the false claims of crony capitalism when protocol was followed to the T. Arnav agreed to the deal, offering to invite Mr. Anand too, another politician.

Arnav hoped Khushi and kids 'll take it positively. He called her and informed her about the changes, that he'll be held back for two more days to deal with this new station problem. Aloo and Aru cried  even as he tried to placate them. They agreed to keep patience after Arnav promised that he 'll bring train-models of his project, spend all time with them when Mumma 'll go to college and blah blah. Khushi kept neutral face throughout, trying hard to keep her calm. She had mentally sketched things for only fifteen days and this new delay wasn't sitting well with her system.  

After children left, Arnav informed her about AR bagging the airport project and her mood lifted up. She was genuinely happy with the news, another feather in his cap. She was a bit less sorrowful now and decided to adjust for two more days. AR 's integral part of his life just like they are. His dedication towards her degree and hers towards his work. Professional and personal life balance Khushi, she reminded herself. Its okay. Don't feel sad. She kept the red saree back in the wardrobe and sent away the extra dinner to staff. Dinner that included badaam kheer, shahi dal, matar-paneer, dum-aloo, mix-veg, karela, stuffed kachoris, methi paratha, fruit curd - all his favorite in Indian, she had spent five hours preparing and had her dinner of jalebis.

After two days, postponement call came again. Babies tried their best to keep up the cheerful facade, understanding that he was needed at work. He looked too agitated to be thrown tantrums at. So, they kept their grumpy mood hidden, cribbing and complaining to their mother instead. 

Arnav was miserable himself with this delay as he stood against the glass window of his office on 20th floor one morning.  It was raining rather heavily today, most probably, the last rain of season. It 'd be dry season with the retreat of monsoon, as dry as his own life. The city would again wait for nine-months to quench its parched lands.When 'll his wait get over! He knew Aloo and Aru were just hanging in there and even wise, mature Khushi has started showing warning signs of her increasing impatience. He traced the wallpaper on his mobile screen. It was a recent picture, from Khushi's birthday two months before, where all four were trying hard to blow the magic relighting candles on the cake in comical birthday caps as family cheered them on. He hasn't seen them for whole 22 days now. This is not fair! His hands moved to her payal in his pocket on his own, making an attempt to soothe himself with the jingling sound, to feel her, to feel his Khushi!!!

Tera naam maine liya hai yahaan,

Mujhe yaad tune kiya hai vahaan,

Bade zor ki aaj barsaat hai

Bade zor ki aaj barsaat hai.

I've called for your name here

You are missing me there

It's raining heavily today.

*

Arnav was back in Delhi, after they signed the final contract of the project. He was currently monitoring the final trials of their Fall-Winter Collection 2017 so Aman received the call when Khushi wanted to know, at what time was Arnav starting tonight. He was puzzled coz he had no such instruction, so blurted out, "Start tonight? Bhabhi,  we have fashion shows lined up this week. Mr. Soni of IJD is Chi..." 

Call was cut from other end before he could finish. Khushi was visibly fuming as she distributed the lavish dinner for fourth time. Controlling the urges to shred his favorite sari into bits, she shoved the brutally crumbled cloth into the last corner of cupboard. She started making jalebi, cursing herself for being such a fool and for first time in ten years, oil splattered upon her hand in this de-stressing session. Tears sprang up in her eyes as she tried to wash the burn under water and there, jalebis turned black in frying-pan. What a luck! 

She felt like throwing everything away. Twenty five days, for twenty five days, she had behaved as per his wish, not once whining, bore his ignorance coz he was genuinely busy in his work. But now she wanted to be unreasonable, bring the house down, throw tantrums. His work looked never-ending. It is more infinite than his love. It holds supreme importance in his life. In reality, men love their work more than anything and if she 'll say he loves even Aru and Aloo less, then he 'll have his excuse ready - for whom am I doing all this. Vimla aunty 's right, all men are same. And she was foolish enough to give him a free hand to play office-office, by running here for this stupid course. Had she waited for fourteen days, she could have dragged him with her. Enough of this bullshit. She won't stay here alone, she won't. There is no need for her to be considerate when he isn't. What's the use of living melancholic, lonely life. And her children, they were suffering so much. 

Aru and Aloo have become silent and dreary, waning away in sadness without him. They no longer craved to enjoy Transport/toys museum, Swissminiatur, various zoos, Aquaparc with Arnav but wanted to be with him where-ever he was. He had tried to convince them about inevitable work but they had no interest in his calls, his excuses. They just wanted to know only one thing - when 'll they go to Daddy, when 'll Daddy come. Khushi had tough time putting them to bed, distracting  them from crying their hearts out, when she herself wanted to do the same. She was now determined, either he 'll fly here in two days or she 'll fly back. She 'll continue this  internship at her University or it can go to hell altogether. Enough of this torturing kids and herself!

Aman informed Arnav about the call. He realized his folly of not informing her about this change. He dialed her but Khushi was so mad at him that she rejected all his calls, at first ring. After sometime, he received her message, "Mujh par apna keemti waqt barbaad karne ki jagah kuch dhang ka kaam karlo"("Instead of wasting your precious time with me, go do something worth-while")

Arnav was already weary with work. He pinched his nose, trying to keep cool as he typed, "Baby, I am sorry. Was busy in last minute checks. Tum nahi samjhogi to kaun samjhega? Don't sulk , I 'll be there by tomorrow evening."(Baby, I am sorry. Was busy in last minute checks. If you won't understand then who 'll? Don't sulk , I 'll be there by tomorrow evening) 

"Pakka?", her hoarse voice reached him. Khushi had wiped her face clean and excitedly rang him after reading the message.("Promise?")

"Phele tum rona band karo. Khushi, main tumhare pass hi to hoon"("Stop crying first. I am there with you") Arnav could only wonder if this was same wise woman, who gave him lectures about long-distance relationships, how one month 'll pass in jiffy and blah blah.

"Nahi nahi hum ro thodi,... matlab... ab hum theek hain. Arnavji, aap pakka kal shaam tak aa jayenge na? Dono bahot udaas hain, badi mushkil se khana khilaya hai"("No, no, I wasn't crying...I mean I am fine now. Arnavji, you 'll be here tomorrow evening na? Both 're so crestfallen, didnt even eat properly")

"Baby, I promise. We four 'll have dinner together tomorrow"

"Theek hai(Okay). Message me when you reach home(Shantivan)"

Arnav had just sighed in relief when Akash burst his bubble, telling him that his presence was important at the show. Chief guest for day one was Mr. Soni of IJD, as per the deal with Mr. Vahani, in lieu of airport project. Worst was yet to come, Mr. Anand, leader of another prominent party and firmly against the ruling one has confirmed his attendance as chief guest for day three i.e., Oct 1. So, AR has got a great opportunity to project itself as an apolitical business house.

Arnav was baffled at this. Was whole universe conspiring against him and Khushi? This hasn't ever happened, not in f**king five years! Thats coz she was tagged with you four times without complaints. This one time, she had to go abroad and you aren't able to join her even after a whole freaking month! Gosh! He was an idiot making idiotic commitments of dinners, only to back-track again and again. How, he had rejoiced and patted himself for getting another project, not knowing he had axed his own foot in trying to make a lucrative offer to Mr. Vahani. Khushi 'll kill him now and these so called VIPs would come only for express condolences.

"Look guys, I am leaving tomorrow"

"Bhai, Mr. Soni is ..."

 "I don't give a damn to which tom, dick and harry is this VIP, the f**king chief guest. I need to be with my family"

"ASR try to understand. You need to attend the event. Yo never know, any of these men may become PM ten years later"

"Aman, how dare..."

"Bhai, I agree with him. Mr. Soni is important. Public opinion is like wind...you never know which way it 'll blow, which narrative actually fits! ... Mr. Soni can become PM, however bleak, the possibility, may seem right now... Bhai, I just want to say, its not wise to antagonize them just coz they are Opposition today"

"I don't care about this bl***dy politics anymore!! What the f**k is wrong with you guys? Do you even realize that's my wife crying to sleep every single night God dammit! My babies sound so miserable, sad on calls. They didn't even eat properly today!! Arghh!!! Dammit, I am such a fool. Why did I agree with that fu**ing sly old man!!!"

"Bhai, aap"("Bro, you...")

Arnav was almost teary-eyed in anguish, helplessness, "Akash, they need me there. AR isnt everything! It has been  more than three weeks now. I am missing them crazily. You have no idea what I am going through. Aru was so sad this morning, ready to burst into tears. She thinks Daddy's angry with her! My baby kept saying sorry..."

Realizing that he showed too much of his raw emotions, he tried to control himself, as he gulped down a glass of cold water, grappling hard to douse his misery at staying away for more days. . You are doing your level best.Wait is of a few more days.

dil na-umeed to nahin, nakaam hi to hai

lambi hai gham ki shaam, magar shaam hi to hai

The heart isn't hope-less, after all...it is only helpless
The night of separation is (admittedly) long; but it is only a night...after all!

He rubbed his face, trying to normalize himself, trying to mentally prepare himself to deal with this situation as unemotionally as possible. He needs to be practical and reasonable, "Aman, make arrangements for me to leave on 1st. I wont stay away a second more than required"

"Boss...umm"

"WHAT NOW??"

"After Part..."

"HAVE YOU LOST IT?  YOU ARE FIRED, LIKE FIRED FOR REAL THIS TIME, FUCKING UNMARRIED ASSHOLE!!"

He needs to get this idiot married at the soonest, only then he 'll realise his pain. Khushi 'll readily agree to help here. 

After her recent crying session, he was skeptical if he should inform her about new delay. She was already so sorrowful, hanging by hope that he would come tomorrow. She 'll start bawling on phone itself, he knew. All her 'understanding wife' attitude has been tossed away this week. She had mentally prepared herself only for fifteen days so such reaction was understandable, esp when its first time. She 'll murder him if he told her that he is not coming tomorrow. He decided against it, atleast she 'll sleep peacefully for a day. 

He dialed Buaji next morning and informed her about the fifth time he was delaying. She didnt know what to reply. On one hand, she knew it was work, it was all genuine but on other hand, she knew handling Khushi and children is going to become worse. She handed phone to Aloo, upon whom, Arnav had pined all his hopes of patience. 

Khushi meanwhile was humming while getting ready to leave for University, making plans for evening when she heard Aloo's sobs and one-sided conversation that followed.She didn't have to use much brain to put two and two together. She took away the phone from Aloo as Buaji took him inside, trying to shush the sobbing boy with chocolates.

"Aap sach mein aaj nahi aa rahe?"("You are really not coming today?")

"Khushi, main... "("Khushi, I...")

She lost her patience and poured out all her ire, "Tum iss duniya ke sabse bade jhoote ho! Khushi, family is most important for me! Jhoot. I ll come on Friday. I 'll come by afternoon. I 'll come tomorrow.  Baby, we 'll have dinner together. Sab jhoot!! Tumne shaadi ki kyun thi? Do do bache kyun kiye they, jab tumhe rehna uss Aman ke saath hi tha? Roz hum sabko rulaane ke liye? Kisi ki koi parwah hi nahi hai tumhe, subah subah rula diya usse!" 

("You are biggest liar in the world! Khushi, family is most important for me! Lie. I ll come on Friday. I 'll come by afternoon. I 'll come tomorrow. Baby, we 'll have dinner together. All lies! Why did you even get married? Why did you give birth to two kids when all you wanted was to work and live with Aman? Do you enjoy when we cry and miss you? Do you even care for us? Why did you make him cry early morning? ")

"Are you f**king crazy? Tumhe lagta hai mujhe maza aa raha iss sab mein? You have no idea, what I felt he burst into tears. Baap hoon main uska! Kaha tha tumse Ahmedabad chalo par tumne aaj tak meri koi baat maani hai? I should have taken them with me, aise rote to nahi kam se kam"

("Are you f**king crazy? You think I am enjoying all this? You have no idea what I felt he burst into tears. I am his father! I pleaded with to come with me to Ahmedabad but when have you ever paid heed to my words? I should have taken them with me, atleast they wouldn't be weeping their hearts out")

Incensed at his taunt on her capability to manage kids, Khushi scoffed, "Phone par baat karne ka to time nahi hai tumhare pass, bacho ka dhyan rakhte tum? Khushi, I ll be there in 14 days. Aaj pure 26 din ho gaye! Ek hafte se, I am busy, 'll call you later ke siva kuch suna nahi hai humne"

("You don't have time to talk on phone, you would have taken care of them? 'Khushi, I ll be there in 14 days'. It has been 26 days now! From past one week, all I get to hear is, I am busy, 'll call you later")

"You said you 're fine with it dammit!!"

"Haan kaha tha, taaki tum jaldi a sako. Par tumhara kaam to khatam hi nahi hoga. Baat foundation tak ki hui thi na, fir koi station aa gaya, ab ye fashion show aur kal ko kuch aur!  'Khushi, main tumhare bina ek din nahi reh sakta', saare jhoot saamne aa gaye tumhare. Bewakoof bana kar, hum sabko yahan parcel kar diya hai, khud aaram se kaam karne ke liye!!!" 

("Yes, I said, so that you can wind up soon and come here. But your work is never ending. Wasn't it decided that you 'll be here after foundation? Then you had problem of station, now this fashion and it 'll be something else tomorrow! 'Khushi, I cant live without you even for a day',all your lies are getting unraveled now. You have fooled me and sent us away so that you can enjoy your work!!")

"Khushi, stop whining like a five-year old. You are 28 for God's sake!"

"Main? Main bacho ki tarah zid kar rahi..." ("I am whining like a child?")

"I am not interested in fighting with you. I had called to inform that I ll come on 1st and if I don't then I won't stop you from coming back. Deal?"

1st October was still a week away. It made her more mad, "1st ko bhi kyun aa rahe ho? Uske next Sunday karwachauth hai tab aa jaana, agle Sunday apne birthday par aa jana, Thursday Diwali par aa jana. Nahi to seedha New Year mein hi aa jana. Koi jaldi nahi hai, kaam sabse important hota hai, family ka kya hai..." ("Why bother coming even on 1st? Come on next Sunday, its karwachauth or next that's your birthday or following Thursday that's Diwali. Or better come directly on New Year. You don't nedd to hurry, work is most important, family comes much ...")

Point to be noted, she herself would be back to Delhi by December. But both were too busy to flag that argument.

"Tumhari problem kya hai? Khud kaha tha ek mahine ki to baat hai, manage kar logi. Ab kya ho gaya hai tumhe? Kahan gayi saari maturity? It hardly a week more Khushi! Can't you manage for few more days?" 

("Whats wrong with you? You yourself said, it is matter of a month, you 'll manage. What happened now? Where is your maturity gone? It hardly a week more Khushi! Can't you manage for few more days?")

"Aap rehne dijiye, humein behkaiye mat. Hum beech mein ek chakkar bhi laga sakte they par nahi! Na khud aaye, na aane diya! Aapko kaam ke ilawa kuch aata hai? Kisi ki koi parwah hai? Zara si bhi humdar..."("You just stop trying to fool me with this maturity talk. You could have come for a day in between or allowed me but no. All you know is work! You don't care about us nor about our feeli... ")

He lost it at her accusations as if he was doing it all intentionally, "Haan, nahi hai mujhe kisi ki parwah. Infact, main jaanboojh kar nahi aa raha. Bahot acha lag raha hai mujhe akele, shanti mein. I am f**king enjoying it so much without you. Ye hi sunna chahti thi na? Sun liya? Ab khush? Now, stop irritating me and let me work"("Yes, you are right. I don't care about anyone. Infact, I am doing all this intentionally, feeling blessed in this peaceful silence. I am f**king enjoying it so much without you. You wanted to hear that? Are you happy now?Just stop irritating me and let me work")

.

.

.

It remained silent for while as Khushi stopped herself from sobbing out.

"Phele bhi kai baar bata chuke hain ki humari koi parwah nahi hai aapko, fir yaad dilane ke liye shukriya.(She wiped her tears unsuccessfully) Aap chinta mat kijiye, aaram se kaam kijiye, hum ab aapko phone kar ke pareshan nahi karenge" ("You have already told me that I dont matter to you, thanks for reminding me.(She wiped her tears unsuccessfully). Dont worry, do you work, I wont call and pester you again")

"Khu...", he tried to speak but the call was cut from other side.God, she has thrown his ancient, stone age words, to his face now, after five years. Women! They keep account of every single thing. Arnav clutched his hair in his hands. 

It must be around 9 am there. Great job man! he has successively spoiled her morning and college with  his own afternoon! He was about to dial her when he remembered something and checked calendar in his phone. Dammit again, he was right! She was on periods, therefore over-grumpy about the whole situation. And it seems he was on periods too! What was the need to fight? Could have simply hmmed and said sorry but no, he had to compete with her in foolishness. 

Why did he fight with her at all? He has always craved for her attention, wanted her to feel restless without him and now when she 's exactly behaving the same, he 's still got a problem! It seems he is going mad. And now, Madam wont take his calls at all nor reply to his 'I'm sorry Baby' msgs. In anger, she may even leave for college without having breakfast nor use hot compress just because he isnt there with her. Such a pain, worse than Aru and Aloo!!! The most immature child in whole world!!! He quickly messaged Buaji, hoping Khushi listened to her and took care of herself. 

Bichad ke bhi mujhse juda tu nahin

Khafa hai magar bewafa tu nahin,

Mere haath mein hi tera haath hai

Mere haath mein hi tera haath hai

Even after being so far, we are still one

You are upset, but not unfaithful

Your hand is in my hand only

Your hand is in my hand only

Trio weren't on talking terms with him anymore, behaving like aggrieved party, when in reality, it was him, who was all alone, suffering with tons of workload! But its okay, you always knew, you 're the only sensible person in this group. So keep your calm.He called Buaji again, next morning, "Buaji... is everything okay?"

"Babua, bache to theek hain, abhi so rahe hain par ..."("Son, children are fine. They are sleeping but")

"Khushi??"

"Hamri to samjh nahi aa raha kuch Nandkishore! Kaa dimag hai iss paremshwari ka! Har raat ro kar soti hai, bura haal bana rakha hai! Khoob samjhaye rahe hum, par khoh-no faida nahi. Tumre phoophaji ke bhakat to mobile phone, video call bhi nahi raha, hum to aisen foot foot kar kabhi naa-hi roye! Bitwa, tum chinta naa-hi karo, Shashi Babua aaj phone karke samjhayenge titaliya ko - padhai aur kaam bhi to jaruri hai Nandkishore!!"("I dont understand anything anymore! What is going in her head! She cries to sleep every night, not at all taking care of herself. I tried to explain things to her but no use. We didn't have mobile phones, facility of video-chats in those days when my husband would come home after his tours. Still, I never wept so bitterly. But you don't worry, Shashi 'll talk to her today. Her course, your work - is important too.")

*

Luckily for Arnav, Mr. Soni and Mr. Anand decided to attend event together on Day one itself. It was icing on the cake with twin benefits - he got to leave early and show was now trending on top. He left as soon as the two men took their leave. He was extremely happy that things finally seemed bright, on track. He just wanted these six hours to end soon. 

Khushi was watering plants in the balcony after engaging Aru and Aloo in TV. They had stopped helping her there, miffed with Arnav and now with her too. She had unknowingly cooked badaam-kheer again after coming from University. Yeah, they loved the dish just like their father but they can bet, even Daddy wont want to have it so frequently. They shut their eyes close, groaning at that red saree, now more worried about her than themselves, praying Daddy comes soon or she'll turn them mad, along with herself. 

Khushi had had a talk with her parents. They had offered to stay with her, if Arnav got embroiled in work again. Their words was tilted in his favour, she had felt during the discussion. It made her wonder if she was wrong. She had then decided to watch the show instead of sulking in a corner. Her words, anger seemed unreasonable, baseless after that. She realized, it was important for him to show no political patronage. How fair is it be to blame him when in her heart, she knew he was suffering without them, trying his best to leave as early as possible. It must be more difficult for him than her and kids. They, atleast, had each other close and were still cribbing! She 'll talk to Aru and Aloo. They can manage for few more days behave like supportive family. AR is important too. He had put his sweat and blood in it, nurtured it like a baby. And she had rained her irrational anger on him. She dialed his number to say sorry but he rejected her calls like she had done in last three days.She messaged sorrys but no use. 

Spraying water on a bunch of red alpine geraniums potted by the parapet, she said, "Dekh liya kitni akad hai. Gussa to inki naak par baitha reh..." ("Saw how arrogant he is! Always ready to get ang... ")

Khushi dropped the sprinkling can as she eyes fell on Arnav, who was getting out of the car. She  ran downstairs in full speed, bunching her saree to avoid tripping. She stopped few steps away from him, trying to take deep breathes, not able to believe, he was here. Finally! She must be dreaming, he had said, he 'll come on 1st. When she opened her eyes again, Arnav was still there, now moving towards her. To come out of hallucination, she pinched herself a bit too hard and yelped. 

Arnav, who had spotted her in balcony itself, laughed hard at antics of his pretty red rose. He came forward and pulled her to himself, top to bottom without an inch gap, not giving a damn to guards. He had her, in his arms after full freaking 29 days! Their hearts thumped in peace, glad to bump against each other in hello after a long wait. How the hell did they manage without each other for so long, they asked each other, beating against the sternum. Arnav felt his stiff, agitated nerves calm down as they breathed in her jasmine scent, finally at peace. At home.

"Humein vishwas hi nahi ho raha ki aap hain", a crying Khushi mumbled from his chest, holding  onto lapels of his suit jacket. ("I can't believe you are really here")

Arnav pulled her chin and kissed her thoroughly, like a mad man, hungry from eons, ravaging each and every corner of her mouth. It was needed coz this sweetness was necessary for his health, for his sanity, recommended by doctor as most effective medicine. He pulled away when their lungs screamed for oxygen. Smirking at her dreamy flushed face, he brushed his nose with hers, "Ab ho gaya?"("Do you believe now?")

"Hnn?", Khushi was still reeling under the effects of his 'I am back' kiss.

"Abhi ho jayega"("You 'll realise it now") He picked her willowy frame in his arms suddenly, causing her to shriek and hold him tighter. So, she didn't just look weak but has really lost weight, "Lagta hai, mere bina jalebi bhi achi nahi lagti tumhe"("It seems, even jalebis can't help you in my absence")

Khushi, who was savouring the feel of being carried by him after so many days, pouted at that comment, ready to burst into tears again. They had just reached the porch when Aloo and Aru came out rushing. They had heard her shriek, and now forgotten it too, busy exclaiming their joy that Daddy was finally here. Arnav bent slightly to accommodate them. Khushi tried to get down to allow them to hang onto him, stating that he must be tired after travel, "Itna nahi thaka hoon ki apni biwi aur bacho ko na utha sakoon. Arnav Singh Raizada can lift his babies..." ("I am not so tired that I cant even carry my wife and kids. Arnav Singh Raizada can lift his babies... ")

"Anytime, Anyday!!!", his munchkins supplied as they readily settled themselves on top of their mother, in their routine style, giggling in happiness as Arnav carried them to the bedroom. They  forgot their anger, no talk policy, all grudges against him in a jiffy as they kept hanging to him even after he deposited them on bed, slopping his face with kisses, shouting 'I love Daddy'  again and again, exhilarating that Daddy dearest 's with them. Arnav freshened up and met Buaji who was busy in her evening prayers. Even staff sighed in relief that part 4 was finally here. 

A-duo were in jubilation - rolling, hopping on top of Big A like monkeys, getting chance to play with him after so many days. Khushi came inside with his coffee and wanted to know the menu for celebration dinner. Arnav mouthed you with his sinful, sexy lips and pulled her to bed. Devils tickled her mercilessly as she tried to escape, pleading for mercy but the team had changed back to AAA. Aloo and Aru recited their tortures of kheer and methi paratha, how Mumma scolded them, how they waited and waited for Daddy... everything. They ran away to watch their favorite cartoon when Daddy reminded them about it. They hadn't watched it since four days, in anger against him. Khushi consoled overwhelmed Arnav, telling him its okay and not his fault.

They talked about other things and obviously Khuhsi had better update of RM. She got up to prepare yummy dinner when Arnav caught hold of her pallu with not-so-holy look in his eyes. Khushi pushed him and reached for door but the grinning wolf was faster and caught hold of the lamb in red. Reason for red wasn't very hard to guess. Swiftly, he hauled her up and placed her on bed before lying down not on bed but upon her. 

Khushi remembered how he had cut her calls when he was already here! She pretended to be angry and turned her face away. Arnav laughed at her foolishness and buried his face into her much more exposed neck, sucking kisses after kisses there. Frowning at her stupidity, Khushi shifted and turned her face to the other side, causing him to laugh harder and dig in there, on the other side. In non-cooperation movement, Khushi placed both her hands on her neck and smirked at him in now what?  Arnav didn't remove her hands. He kissed them, trailing upwards to her chin and made love to her lips. Soon, she was pulling him closer, burying her hands in his hair, trying to get more and more of him. Breathless, she pulled out after sometime and Arnav kissed her forehead.  "Sorry", they spoke up at same time, then couldn't help giggle at their new  drama of rejecting each other's call at first ring, not even waiting for second bell. 

Khushi turned him around, sprawling herself upon him, making their eye-lashes brush against each other in their its okay gesture. Arnav couldn't help running his fingers into her silky tresses, feeling their soft smooth satiny touch as they tickled both his skin and senses. God, he missed this so much, he caughtt a tuft closer and inhaled the faint jasmine fragrance, something peculiar to Khushi. She kept looking at him,his actions overwhelmed. She missed him so much, esp, this lying on top him, on top of world. She placed her ear against his heart, listening to the this heartbeats, drawing lazy circles on his chest, "Aapke bina to hum paagal hi ho jaate" ("I would have turned mad without you")  

Arnav remembered something, changed their positions again and dropped all his weight upon her, crushing her under him as he bit her lip hard. 

"Ahhh Rakshas! Ye kisliye?", she rubbed the sting.("Ahh Devil! Why did you bite me?")

"Mujhe itne din akela chodne ke liye"("You left me alone for so many days ") He sucked her throat madly, leaving a string of bites along her entire neck. "Pyaar nahi karta main tumse? Koi parwah nahi hai mujhe tumhari? Aur kya bola tha tumne?",Khushi  was too muddled in his ministrations to reply. She dug her hands in his hair harder as moans after moans escaped her mouth,"Bolo, jaogi kahin mujhe akela chod ke? Ek minute ke liye bhi?"

("I dont love you? I don't care for you? What else did you accuse me of? ........ Tell me, Will you leave me alone again? Even for a minute?")

Now that caught her attention, "Nahane bhi saath chaloge?" ("You 'll accompany me to shower too?")

"Yes, yes. I would love that. Khushi, its high time we start doing that. You wanna take a bath baby? Come lets wash each other" 

"Tum kis level ke besharam ho? Chodo mujhe!", Khushi pushed him away, appalled at that thought, his innuendos. Yes, he had carried her to washroom all three times after it, but this is too much. Silly naive girl didn't know ignorance is not always bliss!("You are shameless to another level! Leave me!")

That evening, they finally had dinner together. A hearty meal of shahi dal, matar-paneer, dum-aloo, mix-veg, karela, stuffed kachoris, methi paratha, fruit curd and ofcourse badaam kheer for Arnav. Aru and Aloo had their proper meal after days. They were literally beaming, twinkling in happiness like sunflowers after a long time. No more the wilted ones, they had become in absence of their Sun, their Daddy.

Khushi came back into their room to find trio sleeping. Aloo and Aru sprawled over Arnav. They must have slept while checking their gifts and making outing plans. She didn't have heart to wake them up, to shift them into better position. They looked so peaceful, beautiful without the frown lines. She changed into her night-suit and slipped in silently. Anjali and Akash had told her, how the same man would carry sullen looks whole day, every-time he had to share bed with another person. And now, he had no qualms with his kids using him as their personal mattress. He claims that having his hearts close to him, in the warmth of safest cocoon in the world, gives him most peaceful sleep. Later in night, Khushi felt his arms pulling her closer. She moved to plaster herself to him, snaking her own around his waist, hooking their feet together, relishing their closeness. Whoever said distance doesn't matter 's a fool. 

Anklet pair reunited back on her feet clanked against each other in agreement with khushi.

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

Frustration is obvious when things dont go as per plan coz our mental map, preparation about the situation, needs to be revisited, corrected. 

Work-Life balance isn't easy to achieve coz it is in dynamic equilibrium, like most of other things in life but you keep yourself sane, you need to achieve it, daily, constantly. 

What do you guys think about Khushi's and Arnav's behavior in this part? 

And most important question. Please answer practically, with you real life experiences, without any fear of being judged, if distance matters or not? How much time - month, year or days is tolerable, you think. And I am not talking about quality time here but the feeling of togetherness. 

PRECAP

"Anjali!....Anjaaaliieeee!!! Come out, you coward!! Face me, if you have guts!!!"

Nani was not at all amused to see a man, struggling with basic body-balance to keep standing, shouting for her grand-daughter, in their living room at one am in night. Payal and Khushi blinked at each other as others kept looking at the man.

Can you guess what obvious reason caused trouble between Anjali n her secret beau? (Hint- It is hilariously unbelievable and something so Anjali)

Will reply to all comments by tomorrow. Eyes in painwa currently.

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