Opposite Poles..Part 123

Part 123

“Chalo Hamaray  Saath..!” Anjali offered. 

“Kyun? Auto walon  Ka strike  Hai  Kya? Bye bye Phati Sadi!” Mami spat.  But Khushi didn’t mind.  She was saved from Sham.  She was happy.  She turned to leave.  

“Chalo!” came an order and she looked back.  He had said it so forcefully, that Mami’s resistance died out, so was Khushi’s.  She turned and walked with the family.

“Aray.. Mamaji? Aap?” she was surprised.  “Haan! Amma said I should go and meet Pandit ji.. She has faith in him...!” he said smiling at her.  She saw Aakash walking towards them.

“So that was Aakash sir!” she concluded frowning at Sham behaviour.  Entire Raizadas except nani and Lavanya had gathered.  They walked together.  For a change, Arnav was lingering behind.  She was surprised.  He looked at her angrily and she turned her face.  

“I will go get the car!” Aakash went ahead.  “Aray wah? Yeh driver nahi chalaa raha?” she was surprised.  He looked at her threateningly.  “What? What did I do now?” she was confused at his reactions.  

“Aap  sub  Hamaray  Ghar  Chaliye naa?” Khushi invited Mamaji glancing at him. 

“Hello hi bye bye! Koi Jarurat Hani!” Mami refused.  “Aray,  Kyun  Nahi? Jarur  Aaenge!” Mamaji had to oppose.  Mami was furious.  

“Aray Manorama, Diwali hain? We will wish them and come back!” He placed his hand on Mami’s shoulder.  She frowned and looked away.  Khushi looked at him and found him staring at her.  She blushed for no reason.  Aakash brought in the car.  They all looked at each other.  

“Tum Peeche  jao!” Mimi ordered her.  She grinned and said “Haan Mamiji!” Aakash opened the hatch and she hopped in swiftly.  Before the hatch was closed, he hopped in to her horror and everybody’s surprise. They sat facing each other on congested side seats.  Mamaji took passenger seat and Aakash drove away.  She gaped at him with open mouth.

“What?” he asked her.  She looked away.  He raised his eyebrow.  Their knees brushed as they travelled. “Di, give the bags here! And that container” he said with smirk.

“Smirk? What is he upto?” she shuddered and soon found herself packed between bags.  “Careful, it contains liquid” he placed her the container on her laps and she held it securely with both her hands.  She was trying to avoid brushing with his knees and he sat more relaxed.  She frowned.

“Khushi bitiya.. tumharay babuji kaisay hain?” Mamaji asked looking back.  She turned, he placed his hand on her knees.  She forgot to answer.  “Liquid!” he pointed at the container on her knees.  She looked at him angrily.  Mamaji was still waiting for the answer.  “He is ok now.  Improving!” she said straightening herself up.  He smirked still placing his hand on her knee.  She couldn’t jerk it away as her hands were busy holding the container.  He was enjoying her helplessness.  Aakash took a turn on the bending road and his smirk grew.  The car jumped over the rambler strips and they almost changed the places bumping on each other.  The lid popped up and the container toppled on her.  

“Awaaa...!” she screamed and Aakash stopped with screeching brakes.  The Gulab Jamoon and the syrup container had toppled on her and her dress soaked in the liquid.  A sweet smell spread over and he looked away.

“What the hell! What did you do?” he yelled.  “What? What did i do?” she was furious now. 

“You spoilt my car, Damn it!” he clenched his fists.  She felt guilty.

“No.. I had held it securely.. that speedbreaker..!” she said weakly looking at him.  His smirk grew and she blew her top in rage.  “You..!” she raised her finger and he glared at her.  She took her hand back.

“You did it!” she accused and he yelled.. “Shut up!” 

“Its ok Khushi.  Your house is near.  Don’t worry!” Anjali consoled her.  He pulled himself away turning in that tiny space and wore disgust on his face. She turned her face in embarrassment.  Her dress was soaked in syrup, her braid was all wet and smell of sugar syrup and gulab Jamoon had spread all over! 

“Roll down the windows Aakash!” he said loudly looking at her condition.  He picked up other bags.  “Di keep them away.. My car... Damn it!” he frowned.  “Its ok, Bhai we will get it cleaned at Happy ji’s garage!” Aakash wouldn’t leave the opportunity.  Arnav didn’t answer.  He still gazed at Khushi wickedly.   

“Hello hi bye bye.. Phati Sadi.. is there a single work you can do without goofing up?” asked Mami and Khushi looked away in tears.  She looked up.  “Aap ko Maza Aataa Hoga Naa?”  she asked her devi mayya sulkily pressing her lips tightly.  He looked at her.  “Aru Aap ko bhi..!” she looked at him angrily.

“Nahi, Mujhe  Maza  Nahi  Aata!” he said in a bare whisper and she winced.  He was looking at her seriously.  She felt sticky. 

“Hay  Bhagawaan... Ab Ghar main  Kya  hoga?” she couldn’t foresee.  She prayed hard.  They stopped at her place and he hopped out immediately.  

“Aakash, you go with them.  I will get it cleaned” he said taking the keys from Aakash. Khushi ran inside straight to the bathroom.  Payal was shocked to see all of them.  She didn’t know what to do.  Buwaji came forward to welcome them.  Mami and Buwaji were gauging each other.  Mamaji looked around.  Amma was at the door of Babuji’s room.  

“Shashi ji.?” Mamaji started the conversation.  “He he better now!” she moved away from the door and Mamaji and Aakash entered Babuji’s room.  Payal ran inside to make tea.  Amma sat on the chair looking at Mamiji’s disgust.  Mami refused to talk to anyone. 

“Namaste!” Anjali spoke sweetly and Amma smiled at her.  

“Nand Kishore..! Payaliya, bring water..!” Buwaji yelled.  “Happy Diwali..!” Anjali greeted everyone.  Mami sat there with grumpy face.  Khushi was still inside cleaning the sweet syrup from her body talking to her Devi Mayya angrily.  There was no hot water.  She had to have a cold water bath shivering all over.  She was rubbing soap and muttering furiously.

“Ab yeh  Rakshas Gaadi  Dhonay  kay  paise  bhi  Lagayaga!” She muttered.  “I don’t know for how much i am indebted to him.  May be  a lac rupees? Or even more? I don’t know.  I will have to ask him the account statement..! This Laad Governer...! I have to pay him back as soon as possible..!” she muttered rubbing her dress with soap.  

“Yeh  Dress toh  gaya..!” she gave up finally. 

“Jiji.. she called out keeping the bathroom door ajar!” Payal came.. “Jiji.. woh darawaja Band Karo naa! Humay  Bahar aanaa hai!” she said in a whisper.  Payal closed their room door behind her. 

“Khushi came out.  ASR had not yet returned..  

“Aray, Khushi.. get ready!” Anjali said and Khushi looked at herself.  “I am ready!” she said confused.  “No I mean.. you are coming with us... !” said Anjali giggling and Khushi bit her tongue.  She shuddered remembering the syrup and said..

“No! I will come in time.. you go ahead!” her cheeks grew pink in embarrassment. 

“Aray.. Kya hua, NandKishore!” Buwaji looked at Khushi.  “Nahaike  Kyun  Aai  ho? NandKishore!” she asked loudly and Khushi’s ears grew red. 

“Aray.. she bathed with sugar syrup..!” Anjali said giggling and Mami had a smile on her face.  Buwaji looked confused. Anjali narrated the incidence and she burst out in laughter.

“Aray... yeh  paramesari... can’t do anything straight... always messes up...!” she said laughing her heart out.

“Even in childhood... yeh titaliya.. !” she started off with Khushi’s childhood stories to her embarrassment.

“Yeh  Sanaka Devi... I tell you... She is a tornado... Kab  Sanakaygi  Kuch  bol  Nahi Sakatay, Nandkishore..! She is unpredictable..! She needs a person who will control her...! Otherwise... Nandkishore..!” Buwaji started off. 

“Woh.. Sham Babua.. hi  Usay  Sambha  Sakata  Hai... Ek baar  Inaki..Shaadi..!” Buwaji was cut off in between.. 

“Rahanay  dijiye  naa Buwaji..! they are getting late!” Khushi tried to stop Buwaji weakly holding her hand.  She saw his figure at the door and got up stuggling.

“Aa  ..  Aaiye..!” she welcomed him.  He looked at her sternly. 

“What happened?” Asked Mamaji.  Khushi held the tea cup and he refused to have it. 

“Without sugar!” she murmured, he ignored, she frowned, he smirked! Amma came with mithai packets.  

“We didn’t prepare much this year.  But these are Lacknowee special sweets...  and these are with sugar free.  Khushi prepared specially...!” she said looking at Khushi fondly.  ASR raised his eyebrow looking at her and she blushed.  

“Yeah..! This Sanakaa devi... prepares everything double... one sugar free and one sweet!” Buwaji said and Anjali raised her eyebrows looking at her younger brother.

“No.. I mean... people are health conscious ... so made them... demand...trial..!” her voice trailed looking at his flared up nose.  “Now what did I do wrong?” she didn’t know.  He got up.

“Let’s go!” He said sternly..! Everyone got up to go.  He looked at Babuji’s room and barged in.  Khushi gaped with her mouth falling open.  Within a few seconds he came out ready to do.

“Chalo..!” he looked at her.  “What?” she looked confused.

“Aray.. she is not coming now! She will come later!” Anjali said getting up holding Aakash’s hand.  Aakash stole a glance at Payal.  They both were very conscious about Mami’s presence avoiding to look at each other.  Arnav looked at Khushi.

“Chalo!” he ordered.  Her mouth fell open.  “Aray, Khushi.. get ready and go with them..!” Amma pushed her.  She looked at him angrily.. Payal went behind her to help her get ready.

“Khushi came out with the morning red saree letting her hair lose... the curly hairlocks dangling merrily on her forehead with a red stone studded bindi and matching bangles tinkling in sweet melody.  His mouth fell open.  He was completely stunned.

“Aray wah! Khushi... you look so beautiful..!” Anjali cupped her face on his behalf.  He couldn’t take his eyes off her.  She blushed competing with her red saree, her cheeks grew red.  She was wearing the same morning saree little differently, not pinning the pallu in folds but letting it rest on her elbow.  The mesmerizing charm was broken by Mami’s disdainful whip..

“Ek  hi  Acchi  Sadi  Hain? Hello hi bye bye?” she asked and Khushi looked startled. 

“Let us go!” he barked and she followed him.  

“um.. Anjali ji.. I mean  .. Can I... umm.. I mean Can I sit here with you?” she stuttered, stealing a glance at him.  She didn’t want to sit with him at the back.  Anjali nodded and Mami frowned.

“Nahi... !” she put her foot down and Khushi reluctantly went behind.  The hatch was open and he was already in waiting.  “Careful..!” he whispered when again she stepped over her pallu losing her balance.  He helped her holding her hand.  She blushed.  He forgot to release the grip. They were facing each other and he was gazing at her mesmerised.  She was looking down this time very careful not to brush with his knees.  They didn’t know when they came to Raizada House.. “Shantivan..!” where Lavanya was waiting for Khushi to help her get ready for the party..! 

Opposite poles..Part 122

Part 122

They reached home for lunch.  Khushi with the help of Ram Prakash laid the table under Nani’s supervision.  Lavanya had retired to her room so was ASR.  Ram Prakash called everyone. 

“Hello..!” payal had called up Raizada’s landline.  Mamiji had picked up. 

“JI... HUM  PAYAL  BOL   RAHAIN   HAIN?  KYA.. KHU...!” The phone was disconnected and Mami marched to her room.  

“Khushi bitiya, have lunch with us!” Nani told her.

“No Naniji, I will serve and then have ...!” she smiled at everyone.  Sham was still missing. 

“Anjali ji, Aap kay pati?” she looked at the empty seat.  “No! He has some urgent work..!” Anjali pursed her lips sulkily.  Arnav looked away.  Mami came with a grumpy face.

“Phati Saadi.. take care of your saari... Kahi Tumhaaray  Naseeb  Ki  Tarah  Phir  Say  Phat naa jaye..! Hello hi bye bye!” Mami said disdainfully.  Khushi looked at her saree.

“Ka  hain... ki  Acche  Kapaday  Pahan nay key liye  Achha Naseeb  Bhi  to Hona  Chahiye..Hello hi bye bye!” Mami rhymed to everybody’s annoyance. 

“You don’t deserve these costly costumes..!” Mami went ahead.  Khushi inadvertently touched her jewellery.  Sadness shadowed her face for a second and then next moment she said,

“Haan, Mami ji.. I will take care..! I know, my clumsiness...!” she couldn’t complete.

“Pass that Kheer bowl..!” he barked cutting the conversation off.  Khushi hurriedly went to serve him his sugar free Kheer!

“Khushi bitiya, Ram Prakash will take over.. you come and have lunch now!” Nani said kindly.

“No.. Nani ji .. I will have later!” she said stealing a glance at him.

“Aur  Nahi  toh  Kaa... She will have in the kitchen with Ram Prakash...!” Mami had crossed the limit.

“Manorama..!” Nani reprimanded and Mami looked away with disgust.  Khushi went into the kitchen not to come out till their lunch was over.  

“Khushi bitiya..!” Nani was at the kitchen door and Khushi turned her back to hide her tears. 

“Chalo bitiya.. Khana Khao! Have your lunch..! I will serve you today! HUM  KHILAYENGE !” Nani held her hand.  She looked away sensing his figure at the door.  

“Umm.. Nani ji.. I mean.. Amma Babuji must be waiting for me... Umm... there is still time ... umm... Can I go home for lunch?” she asked in a small voice.  

“Khushi bitiya..!” Nani held her hand.   She smiled.  “Nani ji please? Its diwali and they all must be waiting for me!” she said not looking at him.  He came a step forward to give way to his Di.

“Khushi..!” Anjali came in.  “Kitchen conference?” she asked smiling.  Khushi giggled.

“No Anjali ji.. I should be going home.  Babuji must be waiting for me!” she said trying to make her way out of the kitchen.  He had blocked her.  She didn’t look up.  

“Khushi ji.. there is a call for you!” Aakash came into the kitchen with the cordless.  She looked confused. 

“Hello? Jiji... no! I forgot to charge it.... Haan,  I am coming... !” she said disconnecting. 

“Umm  Nani ji please?” she asked permission. 

“Only on one condition...! You should be here by six in the evening.. before the party starts!” Anjali said holding her hand out.  She promised smiling broadly.  Arnav opened his mouth to offer ...

“I will drop you, Khushi ji.. I am going that side..!” Aakash was all excited.  Arnav raised his eyebrow so did Khushi smiling mischievously.  Aakash avoided their gaze.  

“Chaliye Khushiji!” he said going out.  Khushi followed.  Arnav clenched his fists losing the opportunity ...!

“Koi  Jarurat  Nahi  Jai  ki.. Yahi  Say Bye Bye kar leo!” Mami barked and Khushi turned. 

“Yes Aakash Sir.  I will manage!” she said walking past him before Mami could spit her venom.  She was out on the road running out of the gates of Raizada House.  She hailed an auto and hopped into it.  She saw a white SUV coming out of the gates and said.. “JARA  JALDI  CHALIYE!” 

She reached home to see Sham was waiting for her.  She dashed to her room and before he could say anything closed the door latching it from inside.  He rubbed his palms frustrated.  He had not seen her properly and what she was wearing was not the one he bought for her.

Khushi came out after fifteen minutes to see Payal in the kitchen reheating the food for Khushi.

“What? You all already had lunch? Without me? How mean!” she screamed sulkily.

“No.. I am waiting for you, Khushi ji!” sham came forward smiling.  She smiled back.  “Humm... AB  SHURU  HO  JAO  KHUSHI... AGALAA  PADAV   IN  KON  BANEGAA  MERAA  PATI...” She thought laying two plates for lunch.  

Sham gaped at her.  She had comeback in her normal attire.  He sulked. 

“Why did you change? You were wearing festive dress...!” he started off cautiously.  She narrowed her eyes.  

“Yeah! It was gifted by Raizadas... !” she said concentrating on her food.  “This one? The red one?” he asked at once and Khushi looked up with a jerk.

“Why? I should not wear a red costume? “ she asked glaring at him.

“No.. I mean... “ he had no justification.  “Its not like that.  You were looked stunning ..!” he said lowering his voice.  She sipped curry noisily in response.  He looked away. 

“Tell me Sham ji...!” Khushi started off to his annoyance.  

“Not now... !” he stopped her holding her hand.  “Enjoy the food first!” he said slyly.  Khushi withdrew her hand.. “You too!” she said looking at his plate.  He concentrated on his plate and they had food quietly.

“Ok.  I should take a nap now...! A Power nap of say.... umm.... four hours?” she looked at the clock.  It was noon.  Sham gaped at her.  She cleared the table in no time and turned to go to her room.  He held her hand.  “Wait Khushi!” he said authoritatively.  Khushi glanced at his grip on her wrist.  She tried to jerk it free in vain.  

“Sham ji.. HAMAARAA  HAATH  CHODIYE!” she said little loudly.  “CHODANAY   KAY   LIYE   NAHI   PAKADAA   HAIN...!” he said sweetly coming nearer.  “Skip your power nap Khushi ji.  Let us go out for some time...!” he said still holding her hand.  She looked at Buwaji.  She was nodding happily.  Khushi had no option.   “Ok..!” she said.  “I will go, get ready!”

She was out with him.  He hailed an auto.  “Let us go to the Mandir!” she said.  He looked at her disappointed. 

“I want to take you somewhere else...!” he said holding her hand.  She withdrew.  But his grip tightened.  She could sense aggression.  She was uneasy.  There was no point resisting... She had to tackle him somehow.  She felt helpless.  Disgust ran through her spine and she winced. 

“Sham ji?” she said sweetly, not showing her fright.  His palm was sweaty... she felt filth.  

“Khushi..!” he looked at her passionately.  She shuddered.  “Umm yeah... but we will go to the temple first and then may be wherever you take me..?” she said looking at him trying to withdraw her hand.  He was happy.  He smiled broadly.  “Yeah.. that will be great!” he said gripping her hand.  She looked at his grip.

“Sham ji... !” she said in a sweet voice.. “You said you are an orphan...! Where are you from?” she asked.  Sham glared at her.

“No Questions..!” he said sternly.  She glared back at him. 

“You don’t want to talk about it? I can understand!” she said considerately.  He looked away smirking.  “You are under my control!” his smirk grew.  

“ARAY.... RUKO   RUKO  BHAIYYA !  MANDIR   AAGAYA...!” she stopped the auto.  He had to leave her hand.  She got down and without even looking back started walking briskly towards the Mandir.  He stopped to remove his shoes and she had reached inside the Mandir.  He frowned.  His phone rang and he switched it off immediately.  She was inside praying hard.  “Raksha Karana! Protect me... I... Don’t want to go with him... Please... listen to my prayer devi mayya... do something..!” she could sense his presence by her side and she shrunk.  Her Devi Mayya was smiling at her.  She looked up at her smiling face and frowned.

“AAP KO  MAZA  AA  RAHAA  HAIN NAA?” she asked.  “Yes!” came an answer from Sham.  She shuddered.  “CHUP HO JAA KHUSHI... !” she warned her self shutting her mouth up.  She looked at the idol and spoke to her Devi Mayya with her eyes.  

“If you protect me from this trouble today... i will come to your Mandir bare foot!” she prayed and looked at her Devi Mayya.

“No? Not good? Ok.  Umm... I will make laddus and bring it here for your bhog!” she licked her lips.  A flower fell down from Devi Mayya’s shoulder and Khushi jumped in excitement!

“Laddus? Done!” she said loudly.  “What?” asked Sham turning to leave.  Pandit ji was all set to close the Mandir for afternoon nap of Devi Mayya.  Khushi turned sulkily.

“You want Laddus... but don’t want to help me!” she rolled her eyes angrily.  She was thinking hard for escaping from that place.  She saw a tall figure with spectacles...

“Aakash sir?” she blurted and called out loudly... “Aakash Sir?” she started descending the stairs hurriedly.

“Khushi..!” Sham held her hand.  “I saw our Aakash Sir..! Just wanted to wish him happy Diwali!” Khushi wrenched free her hand. 

“No!” He pulled her back looking around.  She looked up at him surprised.  The tall figure had moved away.  “He is not Aakash!” said Sham and Khushi froze.

“How do you know?” she asked narrowing her eyes.  He fumbled.  “Umm.. I mean... I have seen his photo in the papers!” he had a readymade answer.  She looked at him.  Pandit ji had closed the sanctum.  She turned with him sulkily.  He bent down to wear his shoes and  

“Anjali ji!” Khushi called out loudly.  Sham turned his face in the direction and the next moment sat down hiding his face.  Khushi descended with excitement forgetting that sham was with her and called out.

“Anjali ji!” Anjali turned and saw Khushi running towards her.  “Aray Khushi..!” she smiled broadly at her and Khushi held her hand completely relieved.  She saw Mami’s figure behind but it didn’t matter.  She was ready to take any insult now.  Devi Mayya had helped her.  Laddus were due.

“Hello hi bye bye... Phati Sadi... Chappal  churanay  aai  ho  kya?” she asked disdainfully.  Payal’s call still ringing in her head, she blew her head off when she saw phati sadi. 

“Nahi... Dil Churanay  Aai  Hain.. Khushi!” Anjali said holding Khushi’s hand.  Khushi smiled ear to ear.  She was saved.

“What are you doing here?” came a rude question and Khushi further felt relieved.  “Humm..!” she turned around to face him grinning. 

“Dil  Churanay  Aai  Thi!” she said loudly.  He raised his eyebrow.  “Devi Mayya Kaa!” she said and Anjali giggled.  “Tum  Kisee  Kaa  Bhi  Dil  Chura  Sakati  Ho, Khushi! You are so sweet!” Anjali cupped her face.  Khushi blushed.  He looked away.

“Akelay  Kay  Kar  Rahi  Ho?” came another rude question and Khushi looked around for Shamji.

“Akelay? Nahi... Sham ji  Thay  Hamaray  saath!” She searched for sham.  He had vanished from the scene.  “Sham ji?” Anjali asked surprised.  “Oh! Woh.. your family friend...! Kay  baat  Hain  Khushi?” Anjali giggled.   Khushi felt embarrassed.  Arnav looked at her suspiciously.  “What was she doing with that Sham alone?” he thought angrily.  

“Nahi.. woh... Buwaji sent me with him..!” she said sheepishly trying to avoide his gaze.

“Hain  Kahan  Woh? Where is he?” Anjali asked.  Khushi looked around.  “Gayab?” she thought feeling relieved.  “Kuch toh gadbad hain  Khushi..! Sham ji  has disappeared again!” Khushi grew suspicious.  But she had to answer.  This was not coincidence.  

“Umm.. Anjali ji.. he went away.  We had to talk to Pandit ji and then he went away for some work and I am going home now!” she said avoiding to look at his grumpy face.  Anjali saw Pandit ji descending and called out.

“Pandit ji... “ He stopped.  She went ahead to talk to him.

“Aray, Haan...!” Pandit ji gave her Thali.  “Sham  Kaa Bhog  Bhej  Denge!” she said and Pandit ji Nodded.  

“Mandir is closed..!” Khushi said in a small voice.  “Haan... we came half an hour back... ! Nani Ko  Kundali  Banaani  Thi!” Anjali said smiling.  Khushi stole a glance at Arnav and he looked away.

“Aakash, Chote and Lavanya ki!” Anjali informed.  Khushi’s heart ached for no reason.

Opposite Poles..Part 121

Part 121

“We are going to the temple.. then lunch and then we will get ready for the evening party..!” Nani declared.  “Chote..!” she called out.  His figure appeared on the top and she ordered. “Temple!” 

“I am not coming..!” he said equally forcefully.  “Oh yes, you are!” Anjali said authoritatively. 

“Di..!” he looked at her.  She ignored him.  “Aakash you take Mama-Mami with you. And we will come with Chote!” she planned everything.  Aakash was ever ready.  Arnav reluctantly nodded.

“Hum.. Peeche  Jaatain Hain? I will sit at the back” Khushi went behind the SUV and he opened the hatch for her.  She hopped in before he could give her a helping hand and banged her head against the upholstery! 

“Careful!” he gripped her.  “I ..I am ok!” she said quivering.  He stared at her and she shrunk shyly.  He locked the hatch.

“ASR! Lavanya started off sitting next to him.  He adjusted the rear view mirror! Anjali and Nani engrossed in their talks.  Khushi was alone at the back looking around aimlessly.  Lavanya kept talking about her shopping and spa plans.  ASR focused ahead on the traffic.  

 The two cars stopped at the Mandir and everyone got off.  Nani started walking with Anjali and Mami through the narrow lane towards Mandir.  Lavanya followed.  Aakash and Arnav drove off to park the vehicles.   Lavanya looked around.   

“Chamakili? Where is she?” she asked loudly.  Everyone looked around.  Aakash and Arnav were walking behind after parking the cars.

“What?” he asked. 

“Khushi?” Anjali asked concerned.  “What?” he too looked around.  She was nowhere.  Everyone started searching for her.  He dialled her number.  She didn’t pick up.  

“Damn it! Where is she?” he grew worried as the time passed.  He dialled her number again.  “Pick up the phone, damn it!” he gritted his teeth. 

“Ok, Aakash.. you go with them.  I will look around..!” he said and turned back.  

“This girl will drive me crazy, one day!” he shook his head hopelessly.  “Where is she?” He didn’t know.  

“Must be on the road... eating some roadside food or buying some silly things, or gaping at some fancy, glittery thing!” he concluded.  He turned and paced towards the parking lot.  He hopped into the car and ignited the engine putting it in reverse gear.  He stopped with screeching breaks and car skidded.  

“Awaaaayiii!” there was a thud and she screamed.  He got down from the car and opened the hatch.  She was on the floor getting up sleepily pressing her forehead.

“What the hell?” he gaped at her.  She was still on the floor.  She looked at him and struggled to get up.  He still was holding the hatch door looking at her.

“What are you doing here?” he asked shocked.  She took support of the seat to get up and sat on the seat looking around.

“We reached Mandir?” she asked surprised.  “Fifteen minutes back!” he barked.

“What?” she got up to get down.  He still was holding the hatch blocking her way.  “What were you doing down, there?” he asked calmly and  looked at the floor.  

“I fell down with your screeching brakes!” she said angrily.  “Why didn’t you get down?” he asked calmly clenching his fists, trying to control his anger.

“Everybody got down?” she looked into the empty car.  “Fifteen minutes back!” his voice rose.  She winced.   “what? Why didn’t you wake me up?” she asked stupidly and he looked away in frustration.  She came back to her awakening state and understood her stupidity.

“S..sorry! I must have slept off.  Woh  Actually  I got up early in the morning... woh... I...!” she was cut off..

“Shut up!” he yelled.  She winced and looked at him in fright biting her nails furiously. 

 “Come!” he held out his hand and she looked at it scared to the core.  His anger rising, he pulled her with all his might.  She fell on him screaming.  The hatch door went up making a room for him to hold on to her.

“Careful!” he wrapped his hands around her and lifted her to put her down on the ground.  She broke apart struggling and tried to adjust her saree.  He looked at her closing the hatch door and locking the car again.  “S..S..Sorry!” she had no courage to look at him and started moving ahead holding up the plaits of her saree a little.  

“Wait..!” he was close behind.  “Apanay baal thik Karo! Your hair...!” he couldn’t resist running his fingers through her hair.  She blushed furiously with her cheeks growing pink.  He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear! A hot wave of shiver ran through her spine and her ears grew hot.  He still had his hand on her shoulder.  She stepped back looking around and he came back to his senses.   

Walking ahead of her he barked.. “Ab Chalo ..!” she followed him close behind.  He dialled.  “Di, Khushi mil gayi...!” he said. 

“What? Where?” Anjali asked taking a sigh of relief.

“So gayi Thi..!” he said angrily disconnecting.  Khushi’s cheeks grew pink again in embarrassment.  She slapped herself walking behind him.  

“Abhi  So  Jaana  Tha? Kuch  der  nahi  jaag  sakaty  thi? ” she was angry with herself.  They ascended the stairs of Mandir together to see all the Raizadas gazing at them.  She was embarrassed stealing a glance at him.  He was looking ahead frowning.  

“S... Sorry..1” Khushi could only say in the giggles and grins of others. 

“Hello hi bye bye... don’t drive, phati sadi.. Khud Sokar.. baki sab ko hamaysha ke liye sulayegi..!” Mami couldn’t control her giggle.  Khushi again stole a glance at Arnav.  

“Kuch  aur  bataa  nahi  sakatay  thay? Hum  soye  thay  yeh  bataanay  hi  kya  jarurat  thi? Why did he have to tell everyone that i was sleeping! Couldn’t he tell something else?” she was angry with him.  He had walked in along with her into the Mandir unknowingly.  He stood with his Di gazing at her embarrassed pink face.  She had no courage to look at anyone.

“Chalo..!” Finally Nani took control and they went inside the sanctum.  Nani notices ASR in the Mandir and she smiled.  

“Aray wah! Chote? In Mandir? Without any arguments..?” Anjali was giggling to his embarrassment.  Now it was his turn to look away with reddening ears.   

Nani looked at his face with content.  “I know, you will change Chote... ! My little Chote will be back soon, from the darkness..!” she prayed joining her hands and closing her eyes with full devotion. So did everyone else.  Arnav kept gazing at Khushi unblinkingly, uninterrupted, till the prayer was over. 

 Then he turned his back and went away, without bothering to take Aarti.  Khushi frowned.  She took Aarti and blessings twice, Once for her and the second for him.  She ate the Laddu thinking.. “This is too sweet, not good for his health.  I will eat it on his behalf..!” she smiled inwardly.  

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

“Why did you let her go?” Sham asked ‘n’th time to Buwaji.  She shrugged again.  “Yeh  Sanakadevi  Sunati Kahain hain, Kisikii, Nandkishore! She doesn’t listen to anyone..!” Buwaji said sulkily.  Sham clenched his fists in frustration.  He couldn’t see her in that Lemon yellow saree.  He couldn’t go back to Raizada house since Khushi was there the whole day and even for the evening party.

“Woh Aaaj Poora  Din Vahi  rahanay wali Hain! She will be there the whole day!” Payal had informed and Sham banged his fist on the table in frustration.

“I will call her back!” he dialled her number, hell bent on spending the day with her.  She didn’t pick up.  He looked at Buwaji angrily and asked.. “Why did you let her go?”  Buwaji gaped at his furious face.  She was helpless, so was he.  

“Chalo Babua, let’s have breakfast, NandKishore!” she said holding his hand mildly.  Payal hid her grin.  Khushi had again escaped from spending time with Sham ji!! Sham had nothing else to do.  The day was wasted.  “I should call her back..at any cost..!” he thought and looked at Babuji’s room.  Smirk appeared on his face.  “Budha kis Kaam Ka? What’s the use of this uncle ji, after all?” he thought moving towards his room to play his old trick.  

The physiotherapy was going on.  He waited patiently.  Amma came with his new clothes and he grabbed the opportunity.

“Give it to me, Aunty ji.. I will do it!” he said sweetly taking the clothes from her.  She looked at him smiling and went away.  He went inside smiling wickedly to put his devilish plans to action.

“Ab  Dekhana... Khushi will come home running... when he...!” smirked Sham and bent down to lift Babuji.

“Aray.. Babua..! Wait!” yelled Amma from the door and he dropped babuji with a thud.  She screamed running inside to hold her husband.

“Sorry Aunty ji! I was startled!” he justified.  She didn’t bother to look at him and bent down to caress her husband’s immobilized hand.   He should take rest atleast for half an hour after his physiotherapy she said angrily.  Tears rolled down from Babuji’s eyes.  She wiped his face sitting next to him.

“Its ok Babua.. you go! I will do it!” she collected the clothes.  He went out sulkily.  Everything was going wrong for him, today.  

He was not happy with his surprise gift.  “Holiday! With Raani Sahebaa! My foot!” he exhaled scornfully.  He was expecting something expensive, which he could sell later and pocket the money.. He couldn’t see Khushi on Diwali day in a saree gifted by him...! He couldn’t manipulate with Babuji to call her back.  She was not picking up her phone... He was stuck up with Buwaji to his irritation.  She was talking non stop praising him and cursing her SanakaDevi for going out on a festival Day.  Her sanaka devi was hiding her face from Raizadas in embarrassment for sleeping in the car.  Everyone was making fun of her including Mami.  She was angry with her Laad Governor for exposing her in front of everyone. 

“Humay  Sataanay main  Mazaa  Aataa Hain! Sadist!” she muttered angrily.  “Sumaa Mainay!” only she could hear his whisper in her ears and winced. He opened the hatch for her.  She moved away from him angrily and hopped into the SUV again to go back.  They all were talking animatedly on their way back.

“Khushi...!” he yelled and she jumped in fright.  “Haan?.. wh  what?”  she was frightened to the core.  “What did I do now?” she thought looking around.  A pin drop silence prevailed in anticipation of some fireworks from him again, yelling at her.

“Ok.  Just making sure, you have not slept off again!” he said seriously and the car erupted in laughter.  He had had his share of fun.  She hid her face in her palms shyly.  He gazed at her through rear view mirror and smirked.  Nani closed her eyes feeling contented.

Lavanya gaped at her ASR! This was new to her.  He looked homely.  She held his hand bringing his attention back to her self.  He looked at her calmly.  

“I am so excited about the evening party!” she opened the topic.  “There is nothing to be excited about, Ms Kasyap! Every year we hold this party!” said Nani matter-of-factly.  

“Yeah.. but this time, Lavanya ji is there to grace the party with Chote!” Anjali took her side smiling fondly at Lavanya.  Khushi looked in the mirror to find him staring at her.  She looked away wiping her face!