The next day bought the home nurse. A middle aged woman with a kind face.But Saanvika didn't let her do anything except to help her from bed and get her to bed. Saanvika insisted on feeding her, assisting her to washroom, bathing her and changing her. Saanvika had gone to shanthivan in between to collect her things for a week.
She had been in Zala residence for a week now. Akshay and NK visited every day after school . Ron had come back from marriage .
Ron had started to like Saanvika and called her Amma just like Khushi. He had also missed a mother. He could see how the house atmosphere changed when there was a mother to take care. Now he waited for Amma to come after feeding Khushi so both of them could have food together, how she pulled him into morning prayers and also made sure Khushi got her prasadh. How she subtly took care of mood swings of Khushi since she was tied to bed. How Khushi easily gravitated towards Amma. It seemed like when she said something Khushi had no counter points. It seemed she was in auto-pilot mode "Just hear her!". What he wouldn't give just to have his mother back!, he thought sadly
Arnav had come to visit Ron over the weekend. When Arnav came, Ron was in Khushi's room talking to her about the marriage he had attended. Khushi loved marriages and the numerous ceremonies that preceded it. She was flooding Ron with questions while Saanvika fed her breakfast with an indulgent smile . Arnav was amused of the comfort level Khushi shared with his mother.
He heard her say his mother with a pout "Amma, enough, my stomach will burst."
Ron looked at Saanvika with an expectant look when Saanvika said "One more roti, bitiya and we are done".
Saanvika noticed Arnav and asked with a really happy smile "Beta, when did you come?".
He responded "Just now". Saanvika tried asking the details of her home which Arnav as usual responded in monosyllable.
Khushi looked on with interest the interaction between mother and son. She realized that something was wrong. Amma had a look of sadness when Arnav responded in a cold and formal manner. Interaction didn't seem normal. With a mother like Amma, she couldn't fathom how could any one be cold. That is when she realized that she didn't know much about Amma's life
In her ecstasy of having Amma to herself, she monopolized the time explaining her life and forgot to ask anything about Amma's life.
Arnav left with Ron after a few minutes.
Khushi had decided to spend the day understanding Amma. So she started asking about Saanvika. She came to realize that Saanvika was a Doctor (General Physician) but she didn't practice any more. It had been her dream to help the needy and to open a hospital in the name of family where less privileged people could be treated for free. She was interested in dance and music and had studied it professionally. Khushi was taken back when she realized her amma was from a royal background. She knew all the arts that a princess was expected to know. She also read extensively and had a very modern outlook on life.
When she got to explain her family, Khushi noticed that there was a tinge of hesitance and sadness. But she continued with a sad smile, explaining how she had to let Arnav stay at residential school far away from her and all the other details. Khushi realized she would never understand the pain of her Amma but to an extend she could understand what Arnav might have felt at loss of a mother but she couldn't fathom his hurt when he was left with noone.That explained Arnav's aloofness. She never had to be away from her family to be on her own. She wondered how she would have coped
She was tucked into bed after she prayed to Devi Maya to give Amma and Arnav the peace of mind that might be eluding them. That was the first time she ever prayed for Arnav without knowing he never believed in the power she was asking the favors from. The first selfless act of Khushi for Arnav.
The next day,which was Monday, was of surprise and shock to Zala family when Saanvika announced she would love to take Khushi with her to Shaanthivan stating that Khushi would like the change . Sashi tried to decline the offer politely but Saanvika seemed a little persistent. Ron and Khushi were torn between two. Ron couldn't decline Amma but didn't want to leave Khushi. Khushi wanted the company of Amma which she had become accustomed but didn't want to hurt Bauji either.
Saanvika reasoned with them suggesting an arrangement "Khushi would come back once doctor remove her cast and she can do her chores herself. After that Khushi could stay in Shaanthivan from Sunday to Thursday every week and rest of the time at Zala Mansion"
Zala family was shocked to say the least. Saanvika was talking of a long term relation here. They were afraid if Khushi would be able to adjust to that. Would she be hurt by anyone at Shaanthivan? If she returned due to any untoward happening, will she ever be able to forget Saanvika? What if she is scarred for ever? . All dangerous thoughts shifted through their heads, all involving Khushi.
So Sashi responded cautiously "We will let Khushi decide once she removes the cast. Let her get familiarized with your family. We don't want to impose on your''s and your family's kindness any more"
Sashi knew Khushi wanted to spend time with a mother figure. She was at that age when a mother was the prominent figure. He was happy Saanvika had occurred to Khushi.
Saanvika realized that Sashi had smoothly agreed to Khushi's stay for the next one week.
So Saanvika got Khushi's things ready while Ron smoothly carried Khushi in his arms and placed her on the car. He gave her a kiss on forehead with a warm smile and a bear hug assuring her he will come every day for visit after school. She had started crying bitterly unsure of whether she actually wanted this but then she reasoned she can always come back whenever she wanted. This would be convenient for Amma.
Saanvika said a heartfelt thanks for sharing the love of daughter of the family with her while she was profusely thanked for the selfless love she was showering on Khushi. Saanvika gave Ron a bear hug and he took her blessings. She warned Ron if he is not found at Shaanthivan every day, he would find her at his doorsteps to take him. Ron agreed smiling.
Saanvika and Khushi proceeded to Shaanthivan in Sashi's chauffeured car. Saanvika had called up home and asked them to arrange the guest room on the 4th floor. She also asked Manorama to get the aarti ready as she was bringing a new guest.
The car pulled up at the entrance to house. Saanvika turned and looked at Khushi who was sitting on the back seat and smiled at her encouragingly. Saanvika got out and rang the bell to Shaanthivan.To her utter surprise Arnav opened the door. He was waiting for Akash and NK to join to start for school when he heard the bell. Arnav was also surprised to see his mom. He wasn't told she was coming. Asking him to hold the door open ,she moved to the back seat of the car to get Khushi. Khushi was protesting her best to prevent Saanvika from lifting her saying she could manage with a little help. Saanvika smilingly ignored her protest and bend to raise Khushi.
Saanvika heard her son's voice asking to leave her. Arnav had seen the exchange and knew it must have been Khushi. So he had come to the door. Arnav looked at his mother and said "I will bring her Maa. You proceed." Saanvika smiled reassuringly and moved to the door calling out to Manorama
Khushi wished she could just disappear. She simply felt helpless. She started her protest with Arnav.
Arnav bent down saying "Shut up!" and effortlessly lifted her into his arms.
Khushi involuntarily wound her right hand around his back and awkwardly placed her left hand on his shoulder. Tears were flooding her eyes on humility of the situation she was in. She had been lifted by her brothers several times when she either dozed off on the couch watching TV or reading books. She was comfortable then but this was awkward and embarrassing to say the least. She looked at Arnav whose face didn't betray any emotions.
Once Arnav reached the door with Khushi in his arms, she saw a brightly dressed woman with an aarti taal and an elderly lady in light pink saree with the pallu over her head at the door. Khushi wanted to hop down and run as fast as she could. "How was she going to face them after being carried this way ?"
Khushi recalled Saanvika's introduction of her family and recalled the brightly clad would be Manorama aunty, Akash's mother and the elderly lady would be Nani,Amma's mother. She said "Namastei Aunty,Namastei Nani"
Both of then reciprocated the greeting with a beaming smile.
Saanvika stepped forward and took the taal from Manorama. She did Khushi's aarthi and put a tikka on her head all the while in Arnav's arm. When his mother stepped aside for him to follow, Arnav looked up at his mother enquiringly. She said "We will put her up in the second floor guest room".
Arnav proceeded to the stairs with others in tow.
Once inside the guest room, Arnav placed her tenderly on the bed and straightened while Khushi whispered "Thanks and Sorry". He looked at her amused. "Thanks for getting me here, sorry for the trouble I put you through". He just looked at her and stormed past the others out through the door.
Saanvika helped Khushi get comfortable while Mami arranged her stuffs in cupboard. The wheelchair was also placed next to her bed. Nani asked Khushi about her well being to which she responded politely. Meanwhile Akash and NK barged in shouting "Gudiya". They inquired after her and how come she was there. Saanvika answered that she was going to make Khushi the permanent member of the family starting with a week's stay and later an arrangement with her father if she find it comfortable here.
Akash and NK's joy knew no bounds. They knew Khushi well. She was what the house required to cheer them all up.
Both of them kissed Saanvika saying "Thanks Badi Maa"
"Meri bitya hai, haq banta hai. Thanks kisliye" (She is my daughter, it is my right. So what is the need for thanks)
Khushi felt she was just knocked out. She swallowed the lump in her throat and flashed a smile at Amma
Khushi said "Amma, hamein pani chahiye" (Amma, I need water)
Manorama and Nani noticed the addressing and the comfort with which Khushi talked to Saanvika.
"Finally Saanvika would have a chance at reliving her life" thought a smiling Nani
Saanvika gave her water. She then went down to kitchen to arrange breakfast ,lunch and dinner menu.
Akash and NK scrambled off calling out "See you in the evening Gudiya"
Saanvika fed Khushi her breakfast. She knew Khushi could eat by herself but it gave her satisfaction doing it. Leaving Manorama and Nani to give Khushi company, Saanvika went to get changed. She came back wearing a Kurta Pyjama with a stylish kashmeri shawl covering her.
Khushi said with obvious admiration "Waah Amma,bilkul heroine lag rahi ho" (Amma, u look like a heroine).
Nani and Manorama laughed along with her . Later they spend the time till lunch with Khushi. Saanvika came by and helped her to washroom and fed her lunch. She got a few books from library .
They sat in silence with Khushi placing her head on Amma's lap while reading the books .Saanvika watched the TV while automatically running her hand on Khushi's head.
That is how Nani and Manorama found them when they came to inquire after her. A peaceful looking Khushi sleeping on Saanvika's lap while she ran her hand on Khushi's hair absentmindedly watching the TV. A smile adorned their face at the picture perfect scene.
After a while Khushi woke up and had her tea. She started looking at the wall clock. Saanvika understood she is waiting for her brother. A few moments later Akash and NK came and sat on the free side of the bed munching their snacks. When Saanvika inquired after Arnav, they informed he is coming with Ron. Khushi looked at the door expectantly every few intervals. In another thirty minutes, she heard the footfalls and knew it was her brother. She was smiling dazzlingly when Ron entered with Arnav. Ron came forward and gave a side hug to Khushi asking her well being.
Arnav stayed put for a few minutes and said to Ron before leaving "I will be back after freshening up and will meet you downstairs"
The ladies noticed that Arnav never inquired after Khushi though she was his friend's sister. They knew him to deduct that he was not the one for courteousness. They hoped Ron and Khushi didn't take offense.
Ron was given generous attention with snacks and tea. All of them left the sister and brother alone giving them the space required. Ron inquired if she was happy. She replied so enthusiastically Ron didn't have any fears leaving her there. After all she had Amma with her
When it was close to 7:00 pm Ron stood up to leave a sad Khushi and smilingly gave her a kiss. When he was downstairs, Saanvika had pulled him to the dinner table and served him a sumptuous dinner literally forcing him. Arnav gave Ron company looking at the scene mesmerized.
Once Ron was gone, Saanvika gave instructions to house helps and took the dinner to Khushi by 8:00pm. Khushi was reading a novel which she put down on seeing Saanvika enter . Khushi had her dinner and retired to bed with Amma.
Manohar had paid his introductory visit towards her bed time. Every body else had come one by one ,spend some time with her and bid her good night, except Arnav.
She found herself crying on Amma's lap when Saanvika read "Cindrella" to her.During one of her private moment with Amma, she had expressed those little things which she had missed because her mother was not there. One of them was bedtime stories and another a lullaby which could wipe out any nightmare. Khushi had brushed it off saying she was too old for them but obviously Saanvika didn't think so. She read the Cindrella half way through, pulled the duvet over her and sat beside her singing a lullaby in a very soft voice all the while patting her head in a rythm. "The bliss of that soft voice and the reassurance of the kind touch", thought a contented Khushi . She send her silent thanks to Devi Maiya
What Khushi didn't know was Saanvika was also feeling the same bliss. She was trying to live that moment with Khushi which she had missed out on Arnav.
Unknown to themselves , they were forming the pillar of strength for each other which would be their support system through out their existence.
She had been in Zala residence for a week now. Akshay and NK visited every day after school . Ron had come back from marriage .
Ron had started to like Saanvika and called her Amma just like Khushi. He had also missed a mother. He could see how the house atmosphere changed when there was a mother to take care. Now he waited for Amma to come after feeding Khushi so both of them could have food together, how she pulled him into morning prayers and also made sure Khushi got her prasadh. How she subtly took care of mood swings of Khushi since she was tied to bed. How Khushi easily gravitated towards Amma. It seemed like when she said something Khushi had no counter points. It seemed she was in auto-pilot mode "Just hear her!". What he wouldn't give just to have his mother back!, he thought sadly
Arnav had come to visit Ron over the weekend. When Arnav came, Ron was in Khushi's room talking to her about the marriage he had attended. Khushi loved marriages and the numerous ceremonies that preceded it. She was flooding Ron with questions while Saanvika fed her breakfast with an indulgent smile . Arnav was amused of the comfort level Khushi shared with his mother.
He heard her say his mother with a pout "Amma, enough, my stomach will burst."
Ron looked at Saanvika with an expectant look when Saanvika said "One more roti, bitiya and we are done".
Saanvika noticed Arnav and asked with a really happy smile "Beta, when did you come?".
He responded "Just now". Saanvika tried asking the details of her home which Arnav as usual responded in monosyllable.
Khushi looked on with interest the interaction between mother and son. She realized that something was wrong. Amma had a look of sadness when Arnav responded in a cold and formal manner. Interaction didn't seem normal. With a mother like Amma, she couldn't fathom how could any one be cold. That is when she realized that she didn't know much about Amma's life
In her ecstasy of having Amma to herself, she monopolized the time explaining her life and forgot to ask anything about Amma's life.
Arnav left with Ron after a few minutes.
Khushi had decided to spend the day understanding Amma. So she started asking about Saanvika. She came to realize that Saanvika was a Doctor (General Physician) but she didn't practice any more. It had been her dream to help the needy and to open a hospital in the name of family where less privileged people could be treated for free. She was interested in dance and music and had studied it professionally. Khushi was taken back when she realized her amma was from a royal background. She knew all the arts that a princess was expected to know. She also read extensively and had a very modern outlook on life.
When she got to explain her family, Khushi noticed that there was a tinge of hesitance and sadness. But she continued with a sad smile, explaining how she had to let Arnav stay at residential school far away from her and all the other details. Khushi realized she would never understand the pain of her Amma but to an extend she could understand what Arnav might have felt at loss of a mother but she couldn't fathom his hurt when he was left with noone.That explained Arnav's aloofness. She never had to be away from her family to be on her own. She wondered how she would have coped
She was tucked into bed after she prayed to Devi Maya to give Amma and Arnav the peace of mind that might be eluding them. That was the first time she ever prayed for Arnav without knowing he never believed in the power she was asking the favors from. The first selfless act of Khushi for Arnav.
The next day,which was Monday, was of surprise and shock to Zala family when Saanvika announced she would love to take Khushi with her to Shaanthivan stating that Khushi would like the change . Sashi tried to decline the offer politely but Saanvika seemed a little persistent. Ron and Khushi were torn between two. Ron couldn't decline Amma but didn't want to leave Khushi. Khushi wanted the company of Amma which she had become accustomed but didn't want to hurt Bauji either.
Saanvika reasoned with them suggesting an arrangement "Khushi would come back once doctor remove her cast and she can do her chores herself. After that Khushi could stay in Shaanthivan from Sunday to Thursday every week and rest of the time at Zala Mansion"
Zala family was shocked to say the least. Saanvika was talking of a long term relation here. They were afraid if Khushi would be able to adjust to that. Would she be hurt by anyone at Shaanthivan? If she returned due to any untoward happening, will she ever be able to forget Saanvika? What if she is scarred for ever? . All dangerous thoughts shifted through their heads, all involving Khushi.
So Sashi responded cautiously "We will let Khushi decide once she removes the cast. Let her get familiarized with your family. We don't want to impose on your''s and your family's kindness any more"
Sashi knew Khushi wanted to spend time with a mother figure. She was at that age when a mother was the prominent figure. He was happy Saanvika had occurred to Khushi.
Saanvika realized that Sashi had smoothly agreed to Khushi's stay for the next one week.
So Saanvika got Khushi's things ready while Ron smoothly carried Khushi in his arms and placed her on the car. He gave her a kiss on forehead with a warm smile and a bear hug assuring her he will come every day for visit after school. She had started crying bitterly unsure of whether she actually wanted this but then she reasoned she can always come back whenever she wanted. This would be convenient for Amma.
Saanvika said a heartfelt thanks for sharing the love of daughter of the family with her while she was profusely thanked for the selfless love she was showering on Khushi. Saanvika gave Ron a bear hug and he took her blessings. She warned Ron if he is not found at Shaanthivan every day, he would find her at his doorsteps to take him. Ron agreed smiling.
Saanvika and Khushi proceeded to Shaanthivan in Sashi's chauffeured car. Saanvika had called up home and asked them to arrange the guest room on the 4th floor. She also asked Manorama to get the aarti ready as she was bringing a new guest.
The car pulled up at the entrance to house. Saanvika turned and looked at Khushi who was sitting on the back seat and smiled at her encouragingly. Saanvika got out and rang the bell to Shaanthivan.To her utter surprise Arnav opened the door. He was waiting for Akash and NK to join to start for school when he heard the bell. Arnav was also surprised to see his mom. He wasn't told she was coming. Asking him to hold the door open ,she moved to the back seat of the car to get Khushi. Khushi was protesting her best to prevent Saanvika from lifting her saying she could manage with a little help. Saanvika smilingly ignored her protest and bend to raise Khushi.
Saanvika heard her son's voice asking to leave her. Arnav had seen the exchange and knew it must have been Khushi. So he had come to the door. Arnav looked at his mother and said "I will bring her Maa. You proceed." Saanvika smiled reassuringly and moved to the door calling out to Manorama
Khushi wished she could just disappear. She simply felt helpless. She started her protest with Arnav.
Arnav bent down saying "Shut up!" and effortlessly lifted her into his arms.
Khushi involuntarily wound her right hand around his back and awkwardly placed her left hand on his shoulder. Tears were flooding her eyes on humility of the situation she was in. She had been lifted by her brothers several times when she either dozed off on the couch watching TV or reading books. She was comfortable then but this was awkward and embarrassing to say the least. She looked at Arnav whose face didn't betray any emotions.
Once Arnav reached the door with Khushi in his arms, she saw a brightly dressed woman with an aarti taal and an elderly lady in light pink saree with the pallu over her head at the door. Khushi wanted to hop down and run as fast as she could. "How was she going to face them after being carried this way ?"
Khushi recalled Saanvika's introduction of her family and recalled the brightly clad would be Manorama aunty, Akash's mother and the elderly lady would be Nani,Amma's mother. She said "Namastei Aunty,Namastei Nani"
Both of then reciprocated the greeting with a beaming smile.
Saanvika stepped forward and took the taal from Manorama. She did Khushi's aarthi and put a tikka on her head all the while in Arnav's arm. When his mother stepped aside for him to follow, Arnav looked up at his mother enquiringly. She said "We will put her up in the second floor guest room".
Arnav proceeded to the stairs with others in tow.
Once inside the guest room, Arnav placed her tenderly on the bed and straightened while Khushi whispered "Thanks and Sorry". He looked at her amused. "Thanks for getting me here, sorry for the trouble I put you through". He just looked at her and stormed past the others out through the door.
Saanvika helped Khushi get comfortable while Mami arranged her stuffs in cupboard. The wheelchair was also placed next to her bed. Nani asked Khushi about her well being to which she responded politely. Meanwhile Akash and NK barged in shouting "Gudiya". They inquired after her and how come she was there. Saanvika answered that she was going to make Khushi the permanent member of the family starting with a week's stay and later an arrangement with her father if she find it comfortable here.
Akash and NK's joy knew no bounds. They knew Khushi well. She was what the house required to cheer them all up.
Both of them kissed Saanvika saying "Thanks Badi Maa"
"Meri bitya hai, haq banta hai. Thanks kisliye" (She is my daughter, it is my right. So what is the need for thanks)
Khushi felt she was just knocked out. She swallowed the lump in her throat and flashed a smile at Amma
Khushi said "Amma, hamein pani chahiye" (Amma, I need water)
Manorama and Nani noticed the addressing and the comfort with which Khushi talked to Saanvika.
"Finally Saanvika would have a chance at reliving her life" thought a smiling Nani
Saanvika gave her water. She then went down to kitchen to arrange breakfast ,lunch and dinner menu.
Akash and NK scrambled off calling out "See you in the evening Gudiya"
Saanvika fed Khushi her breakfast. She knew Khushi could eat by herself but it gave her satisfaction doing it. Leaving Manorama and Nani to give Khushi company, Saanvika went to get changed. She came back wearing a Kurta Pyjama with a stylish kashmeri shawl covering her.
Khushi said with obvious admiration "Waah Amma,bilkul heroine lag rahi ho" (Amma, u look like a heroine).
Nani and Manorama laughed along with her . Later they spend the time till lunch with Khushi. Saanvika came by and helped her to washroom and fed her lunch. She got a few books from library .
They sat in silence with Khushi placing her head on Amma's lap while reading the books .Saanvika watched the TV while automatically running her hand on Khushi's head.
That is how Nani and Manorama found them when they came to inquire after her. A peaceful looking Khushi sleeping on Saanvika's lap while she ran her hand on Khushi's hair absentmindedly watching the TV. A smile adorned their face at the picture perfect scene.
After a while Khushi woke up and had her tea. She started looking at the wall clock. Saanvika understood she is waiting for her brother. A few moments later Akash and NK came and sat on the free side of the bed munching their snacks. When Saanvika inquired after Arnav, they informed he is coming with Ron. Khushi looked at the door expectantly every few intervals. In another thirty minutes, she heard the footfalls and knew it was her brother. She was smiling dazzlingly when Ron entered with Arnav. Ron came forward and gave a side hug to Khushi asking her well being.
Arnav stayed put for a few minutes and said to Ron before leaving "I will be back after freshening up and will meet you downstairs"
The ladies noticed that Arnav never inquired after Khushi though she was his friend's sister. They knew him to deduct that he was not the one for courteousness. They hoped Ron and Khushi didn't take offense.
Ron was given generous attention with snacks and tea. All of them left the sister and brother alone giving them the space required. Ron inquired if she was happy. She replied so enthusiastically Ron didn't have any fears leaving her there. After all she had Amma with her
When it was close to 7:00 pm Ron stood up to leave a sad Khushi and smilingly gave her a kiss. When he was downstairs, Saanvika had pulled him to the dinner table and served him a sumptuous dinner literally forcing him. Arnav gave Ron company looking at the scene mesmerized.
Once Ron was gone, Saanvika gave instructions to house helps and took the dinner to Khushi by 8:00pm. Khushi was reading a novel which she put down on seeing Saanvika enter . Khushi had her dinner and retired to bed with Amma.
Manohar had paid his introductory visit towards her bed time. Every body else had come one by one ,spend some time with her and bid her good night, except Arnav.
She found herself crying on Amma's lap when Saanvika read "Cindrella" to her.During one of her private moment with Amma, she had expressed those little things which she had missed because her mother was not there. One of them was bedtime stories and another a lullaby which could wipe out any nightmare. Khushi had brushed it off saying she was too old for them but obviously Saanvika didn't think so. She read the Cindrella half way through, pulled the duvet over her and sat beside her singing a lullaby in a very soft voice all the while patting her head in a rythm. "The bliss of that soft voice and the reassurance of the kind touch", thought a contented Khushi . She send her silent thanks to Devi Maiya
What Khushi didn't know was Saanvika was also feeling the same bliss. She was trying to live that moment with Khushi which she had missed out on Arnav.
Unknown to themselves , they were forming the pillar of strength for each other which would be their support system through out their existence.
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