Sorry for being late but I guess the update will be worth it.

RM, New Delhi, India

After two weeks

Raizada Mansion was decorated like a bride for the evening and why not, after all, it was the engagement of the only daughter of the Raizadas. Everybody was busy with preparations except Dadi who was sitting on the couch and taking rest as advised by her granddaughter in law and ordered by her grandson as she had lately recovered from a heart attack.

Dadi looked at Arnav and Khushi who were a little away from her and was in a deep discussion ... no in fact in an argument, about which sweets should be ordered for the functions and from which shop, even after Akash and Kiran had left to the sweetshop, which she found rather amusing even after days of knowing them as a couple, because she still can't understand the necessity of fighting for silly things like this ... but and then maybe that is the beauty of their relationship which she witnessed closely in the last two weeks, all thanks to her poor health. The reason was simple ... her once favorite grandchild ... the person she loved more than anyone and anything else in the world ... her Anju. How ironic isn't it? ... but that is the truth ... because the worst thing about betrayal is it will be by someone you trusted the most ... and Dadi realized it in the hardest way that night when Manav insisted on knowing everything in detail.

And Arnav along with Ravi and Shyam who had firsthand experience in Anjali's evilness took turns in explaining everything ... Anjali's betrayal to Ravi by faking her love, her obsession on Shyam from the time she met him at the temple with Priyanka, her proposal to Shyam, his rejection, her blackmailing him by a fake play, him finding the truth, her warning to hurt Sheetal and Priyanka, his ignorance, the hurt she caused to Priyanka through Lakshman and his gang, Shyam's decision to marry her to save at least his sister, sufferings of Priyanka and her family, Pawan joining Anjali and Lakshman, the innumerous number of girls they destroyed, her pregnancies, abortions, murder of Payal's unborn, threatening the doctor to give the wrong medicines to Payal, kidnap of Dr. Khan's daughter, hurting khushi by spreading boric powder on the stairs ... and finally hurting Kiran.

By the time they had finished everybody was in tears ... some in remorse ... some in disgust ... and some others in pity but what happened next was not expected by anybody as Dadi started to cry clutching her heart and sweat like hell. It didn't take much time for Lavanya and Khushi to understand what was happening to her. They went running to her and made her lie on the sofa and started CPR. Arnav immediately fished out his phone and called for an ambulance somewhat guessing the gravity of the situation by the expressions on Khushi's face. Hearing Khushi's and Lavanya's frantic calls to Dadi Manav woke up from his frozen state and came to them. Soon everybody was gathered around her but Khushi shouted them to move away as it is not good to be crowded in a situation like that. Soon the ambulance has arrived and Dadi was shifted to hospital. When she got discharged the next day, she was advised to take rest by the cardiologist for two-three days which got extended to even now by Mr. and Mrs. ASR. From Khushi, it was more like an advise while it was more of a warning or even better a threat from Arnav who still today hasn't even allowed her to get out of her room which she sure is will restart from tomorrow because she knows today she was spared, only because of the engagement. She was brought out of her thoughts when she heard Khushi.

Khushi: Dadi ...

Dadi: Ah ... yes, Bitiya ...

Khushi: Here ... drink this ...

She said extending a glass of orange juice, and Dadi made a face at it. Seeing it Khushi said.

Khushi: Don't even think about denying it Dadi, because you are going to drink this as it is good for your health ...

Dadi: But Bitiya ... I just had one in the morning

Arnav: (From behind) ... it was in the morning Dadi ... now it is almost noon ... so don't make any fuss and drink that ... (Turning to Khushi and extending a paper) ... hey ... look at this ... I guess that is all needed ... (Acknowledging her nod) ... okay ... so I will go then ... (Interrupting her before she can say anything) ... yeah, I got it ... I will be polite with him

Saying this he turned to go but turned around and asked confusedly as Khushi cleared her throat.

Arnav: What happened?

Khushi: Hmm ... that ... please check if Dad is free ... and if he is, ask him to come here and be with Dadi as I have to go and pick up the dresses given for fitting ...

Arnav: What ... it has not arrived yet ... you told me that will be delivered yesterday ... didn't they do it?

Khushi: (Sighing) ... they did, Arnav ... but Lavz' blouse was a bit loose ... so it was sent back ... they told me they will deliver it ... but as I have to get some of my makeup essentials, I thought I will go and collect it too, as both the shops are nearby ...

Arnav: Oh okay ... do you want me to drop you?

Khushi: No, Arnav ... you don't waste time ... but yeah ... if you are going to get your key, please bring mine too ... will you?

Arnav: Sure ...

Khushi: (Turning to Dadi) ... did you finish, Dadi? ... okay ... give it to me ... ah and Arnav, bring my wallet too ...

Arnav: Okay ...

Khushi collected the glass from Dadi and walked towards the kitchen while Arnav walked towards his room to get the keys. Dadi kept looking at the retreating back of the two of them and guilt filled her up like anything else seeing their love and care towards her even after all that she had done to them on Anjali's words. But just like Khushi said that day this is the biggest punishment one can get ... guilt and self-pity ... she thought as she remembered the conversation between Arnav and Khushi from the last week which they had thinking that she is asleep about forgiving Payal and Akash.

Arnav barged into Dadi's room and said in a loud voice.

Arnav: Kiya ... what did I hear from Kiddu ... is it true?

Khushi: Shh ... lower your voice, Arnav ... Dadi is asleep ... and tell me what you heard ... then only I can say is it right or wrong

Arnav: Oh please Kiya ... now do you want me to spell it for you ... was it that easy for you to forget all the accusation they both thrown at you the other day ... calling you a murderer ... a gold-digger and what not ...

Khushi: I didn't forget anything Arnav ... each word they told me and you that day is etched on my heart and will forever be there ... because that had hurt me like hell ... broke me to every extent

Arnav: (Disbelievingly) ... then why the hell did you forgive them ... didn't you for once want to punish them? ... or at least wait for some time so that they will try very hard to get your forgiveness

Khushi: For what Arnav ... so that they will do something to please me ... if that is what you meant, I don't need that, Arnav ... because how much ever you try to mend broken pieces they will never be like before ... the cut will always be there ... trust is also like that ... once it is broken, nothing ... absolutely nothing can bring it back to normal ... for example take Uncle's case ... how much ever you say it loud, that you started to trust him again, I know that in the heart of hearts you are still afraid to trust me with him ... no, don't try to deny it ... because I can read that in your eyes ... so in this case also, never ... I mean it ... never I can forget how easily they had put all that blame on me ... (In trembling voice) ... and moreover blamed you and Lavz which is the greatest sin they have done being your Bhai and Bhabhi and knowing you from years ... (Sighing) ... so the point is how much ever they try ... I can only forgive, never forget ... so why to stretch it and make them think that they have done so much to get my forgiveness and I am obliged to forgive them ... instead, they should always remember how easily I forgave them even after they had accused me of something that horrible ... otherwise, what is the difference between them and us ... and about punishment, I think that is the biggest punishment one can get ... guilt and self-pity... don't you think so?

Arnav: (Nodding his head and side hugging her) ... I do, Khushi ... and I think I should follow your footsteps too ... but yeah ... I just hope they will interpret it the way you think instead of taking you for granted ...

Khushi: Hmm ...

Dadi wiped her tears without their knowledge since Khushi's words were applicable for her too ... because, even though not as horrible as Payal and Akash, she too has accused both of them in many occasions or at least have kept silent as if agreeing to Anjali when she was hurting them, and today seeing the love and care they are showing on her that is what she too felt ... guilt and self-pity. And just like Arnav said, she hoped Payal and Akash will take it that way too otherwise, it will hurt them even more ... soon her worries flew out of the window and she sighed in relief when she saw  Payal and Akash who came to check up on her, standing at the door with the exact expressions as what Khushi had expected them to feel.

Arnav came to Manav's room after collecting the keys and Khushi's wallet only to see Manav sitting in his bed lost in thoughts. Seeing him like that Arnav called him little loudly so as to wake him up from his dreamland.

Arnav: Dad ...

Manav: Huh ...

Arnav: What are you doing here, alone?

Manav: Me ... hmm ... I was just ... you know ... taking rest ...

Hearing him Arnav sighed and walked towards him and settled on the couch before him.

Arnav: Really Dad ... now you started to lie to me too ...

Manav: (Looking anywhere but at him) ... lie ... why would I lie? ... it is just that ... hmm ... I was tired ...

Arnav: Yeah ... and I am seeing you for the first time today ... then what else, Dad? ... you are sitting here all quiet and alone when everyone there is struggling between the works ... and that too on Lavi's engagement day ... then I am sorry Dad ... because this is not the Manav Singh Raizada I know ... this is not my Dad ...

Manav: Arnav ...

Arnav: (Sighing and in a low voice) ... you were ... you were thinking about her ... isn't it?

In reply, Manav looked away and Arnav said in a disappointed voice.

Arnav: Why Dad ... why are you still giving her that much importance and spoiling the happy moments of life when we all never mattered to her?

Manav: (Shaking his head) ... I know I shouldn't, Arnav ... but it's ... it's not that easy ... how much ever you say to me and I believe that there is no fault of mine that she had become like this ... the knowledge, that it's my daughter ... my own blood who had destroyed so many innocent lives without any remorse ... it is not easy ... it is never going to be easy ... (Sighing) ... but yes ... you are right ... I shouldn't spoil the happy moments of life by thinking about her ... so tell me, son ... what do you want me to do for now?

Arnav: (With a small smile) ... nothing much ... you have to just go and be with Dadi ... as everybody else is busy in different works ...

Manav: Okay done ... hey, are you going somewhere?

Arnav: Yeah ... to the temple ... to talk to the Pandit Ji ... oh ... now don't look at me like that ... it's all your DIL's doings

Manav: (Chuckling) ... you don't have to say that, son ... because I know only she can make you do things like that ... (getting up) ... by the way where is Maa now?

Arnav: In the living room

Manav: Okay then come ... let's go ...

When they reached the living room some distant relative of Dadi and her husband was there and they were in a conversation with Dadi.

Lady: By the way, Maasi Ji ... is it true what I heard ... I mean Anju ...

Arnav and Manav got angry fearing for Dadi's health and was about to say something but Khushi who was talking to HP beat both of them as she said in a stern but polite tone.

Khushi: Yes Aunty Ji ... whatever you have heard is true ... and I know you were just concerned about us but please don't bother Dadi ... because you see ... she is a bit unwell and it is not advisable to stress her unnecessarily ... but yeah ... still, if you have any more doubts please feel free to ask me ... since we will need more people who know the truth to help us in the evening  ... because you know how society is these days ... everybody is interested to know the problems in other's house and some people even find happiness in hurting them by bringing those topics again and again ... so who better than family to help us, right Dad?

Khushi ended her words with a sweet but sarcastic smile and Manav nodded his head agreeing to her words while the lady faked a smile and looked away as she understood that Khushi was indirectly taunting her. Manav then settled beside Dadi and fell into a smooth conversation with the husband of the lady and Arnav came towards Khushi.

Arnav: Here is the key ... and ... (Taking out her wallet from his waistcoat) ... your wallet ... and ... (Taking out his card) ... here ... keep it ...

Khushi: I have my card, Arnav ... it is not needed ...

Arnav: It is ... (Placing it in her hand) ... and no, it is not open for negotiation ... you are keeping it ... and now let me go before it is too late ... bye

Saying this and giving a quick hug to her he left to the temple to bring Pandit Ji and Khushi turned to Manav.

Khushi: Dad ... I had asked Hari to bring Dadi's lunch in some time ... make sure she eats and takes her medicine and ...

Manav: And I too will have my lunch and medicines on time ... don't worry ... by the way where is others?

Khushi: Kiddu and Akash had gone to the sweet shop ... Aunty, Payal, and Chachi had gone to the jewelry shop to pick up the ornaments and to polish some old ones ... Nik and Lavz were at the spa but had finished half an hour before and might have gone to the jewelry shop since Aunty wanted to buy something for Lavanya ... Uncle and Chachu are near the stage and is looking after the arrangements ...

Manav: Okay ... and Kiya ... when will Oberoies reach?

Khushi: The flight is at three, Dad ...

Manav: Okay ... so who is going to pick them?

Khushi: Aman, Sruthy, and Rahul will ... I guess three cars will be enough ... as Sruthy's parents and Shyam Jiju too will be coming with them ...

Manav: Rahul's is an SUV so I guess that will be enough

Lady: Shyam ... but he and Anju ...

Manav: Yes ... he and Anjali got divorced and he moved out of here as he wanted to start afresh ... but he is still a part of this family because he was more than just Anjali's husband for us, you see ... he still calls me Papa and it is going to remain like that forever ... or even better you can think it like this ... Manav Singh Raizada never had a daughter but two sons ... Arnav and Shyam ...

And that effectively shut the lady up and she went away from there saying she is tired after the long journey and wants to rest while her husband gave an apologetic look to Manav who in turn blinked his eyes.

Khushi: (Sighing) ... okay now let me leave too ...

Saying this she turned to go but turned around as she remembered something.

Khushi: And Dad ... the caterer will come around two ... so if I and Arnav are not back by then please settle his bill even though I will try to come as soon as possible ...

Manav: I will see to that ... you take your time, sweety ...

Khushi gave him a sweet smile and left from there and after ten minutes another two cars entered the porch. From one came out Nikhil and Lavanya while the other had Aunty, Chachi, and Payal and seeing them Manav said to the guest.

Manav: See that is Lavanya's future husband Nikhil and that is his mother Nandita ...

The man greeted both of them and Manav completed his introduction.

Manav: And this is Maa's cousin's daughter's husband ...

Man: So Nikhil Beta ... what are you doing ...

Nikhil: I am working at AR, Uncle ... and you?

And the two of them easily fell into a conversation, while Manav turned to Lavanya.

Manav: So Lavi ... finally done with your engagement shopping and Spa?

Lavanya: Engagement shopping was over by yesterday itself ... but it's just Mom wanted to ...

Manav: Oh yeah ... Kiya told me ... so ... what did your MIL get for you?

Lavanya: She got me a pair of beautiful anklets ... wait for a second ... (taking out the packet) ... here see this ...

Manav: Wow ... its beautiful Lavi ... and I think will suit best with your Lehanga ...

Lavanya: Is it? ... Oh, Chachu you are the best ...

But before Manav can say anything they all heard a mischievous voice from behind "That he is ... after all whose BF is he?" and nobody from the family had to turn to see who that is but nonetheless looked back to see Kiran, Akash, and Mohan standing there with so many boxes of sweets and seeing Kiran struggling to carry it Lavanya went towards them immediately and tried to take that from Kiran. But Kiran moved her hands away and said in a scolding tone.

Kiran: You are not allowed to work today milady ... don't you know that?

Lavanya: Oh please Kiddu ... I was just helping you ... it cannot be even counted as work ...

Kiran: That too isn't allowed today ... because today is your big day ...

Seeing their exchange Nandita too came to them and said taking the boxes from Kiran.

Nandita: What Kiddu said is right Lavanya ... you should not work today ... in fact, I think you should take some rest now as it is going to be a long evening

Lavanya: No ... no Mom ... please let me also sit with you guys and ...

Before she could finish her sentence her phone rang from the table and Kiran who was near to it took the phone and said "It's Kiya" and attended the call.

Kiran: Hello ...

Khushi: Oh you reached RM?

Kiran: Of course ... otherwise, how do you expect me to attend Lavi's phone ...

Khushi: Ah okay ... now stop being a smart-arse and hear me out ...

Kiran: Okay say ...

Khushi: Tell Lavi that the beautician will reach by one and to eat her lunch before that ...

Kiran: But hey ... you have gone to get her blouse, right ... then how can she get ready without that?

Khushi: Yeah I was coming to that only ... ask her to start with the hair ... I think I can reach by then but not sure as there was very hefty traffic while coming so it can be expected in return too ... and if I don't reach by then ... ask her to start with the makeup, wearing some other blouse which is removable without disturbing her makeup similar to the original one

Kiran: Ah okay ... will tell her

Khushi: And yeah ... please call Arnav and ask him whether he had settled the final bill of the beautician, as I can't get him ... and if he hasn't ... my cheque book is in the left side drawer and I have signed one leaf ... so ask her the amount and fill it for her ...

Kiran: Ah okay ...

Khushi: And yeah ... if he reaches make sure he eats and takes his medicines

Kiran: Of course, Kiya ...

Khushi: And you too, eat on time okay?

Kiran: Yes boss ... and what about you ...

Khushi: Don't worry about me ... I will grab something ... and yes ... Nani and all will reach in some time as the flight is early ...

Kiran: And I will make sure that they will have their lunch too ...

Khushi: Do that too but actually that is not I was saying ... don't start to fight with Rudy as soon as he comes ... don't forget that there are guests

Kiran: What? ... but ...

Khushi: Kiddu ...

Kiran: Okay fine ... I will try ...

Khushi: No ... not try ... promise me ...

Kiran: Okay fine ... I promise

In the evening

RM was filled with guests but media was strictly prohibited even in the premises of the mansion until the press meet ... and that too only people approved by ASR was allowed to come to that as he didn't want anybody to tarnish the family's image due to Anjali.

Arnav was talking to a business associate when Ravi came to him and whispered in his ear.

Ravi: Arnie ... its time ... why aren't they down yet?

Arnav excused himself and the brothers started to walk towards the stairs to call the ladies down and Ravi said.

Ravi: The beautician had left long back ... so why are they taking this much time?

Arnav: Beautician was for Lavi only, Big B ...

Ravi: Hey ... what do you mean by that?

Arnav: There are more than ten ladies ...

Ravi: So ... what is your point?

Arnav: Isn't it obvious, Big B? They all will want to look in their best ... so, of course, they will take time ...

Ravi: You are saying it as if it is their engagement ... I mean it is Lavi's big day ... not theirs that they will have to look best ...

Arnav: (Chuckling) ... I am so sorry to say this, Big B ... but I will have to say this ... you don't know anything about ladies ... but don't worry ... just wait till you get married ...

Ravi: What ... what do you even mean by that?

Arnav: (Mischievously) ... why say it and spoil the fun, when you can experience it soon

Ravi: Arnie ... what on earth ...

But he was interrupted by the noises from upstairs and both the brothers were goners seeing their respective ladies looking stunning and Ravi couldn't help but agree with Arnav as Tania was looking not less than a bride.

(If anyone is interested in seeing the attires see the picture in the media)

Lavanya laughed silently seeing her brother's state but soon it changed into a shy smile along with a blush when her eyes fell on Nikhil who was standing all lost, in her look in the Lehanga designed by Arnav. But soon she too went into a dreamland seeing him looking as handsome as ever in his Indo-Western suit designed by Khushi.

(Lavanya's dress and look)

(Nikhil's dress and look)

When they reached down Nikhil extended his hand towards Lavanya and both of them along with the family members went to the stage. Nandita and Manorama did the Arti of Lavanya and Nikhil respectively and then the rings were exchanged. Feeling emotional that her family had finally accepted her love, Lavanya hugged Nikhil and he too hugged her back happy that finally they are officially engaged.

Breaking the hug Lavanya said with a sweet smile.

Lavanya: Congrats, Mr. Khurana

Nikhil: Congrats to you too, soon to be Mrs. Khurana

So how was it  ... was it worth the wait?

And one more thing ... apart from this which story do you want me to update next?