Note: I am taking a shot at IIT. I do not have any idea of how IIT functions nor have I seen it. All of it is my imagination. I refuse to believe IIT-ians are all work and no fun ;) I have only respect for the most celebrated institution in the country which churns out the best intellects.
It was the day before Arnav's birthday. He had spend so much birthday's in boarding school, he simply lost the interest to celebrate it any longer. It used to remind him of his family and his loneliness. So he chose to forget that day. But this time he was at his home . Though he didn't notice the date , everybody else did.
Saanvika was arranging a party for Arnav. Knowing how much he hated to be around unknown people, Saanvika thought to keep it among only the family members and Zala family.
Saanvika and Khushi had gone the day before to buy things for the party. Saanvika got him a black Armani three piece suit as gift.
Next day Arnav woke up, had his usual chores of jogging and bath . When he was back, his mother dragged him to Mandir and applied tikka. Arnav couldn't understand the reason for the insistence to pray today.He just abide for her sake.He left for school
NK and Akash had returned early after letting Arnav know that they didn't have after-school activities. Arnav entered the house to a roaring greeting of "Happy Birthday"
His first reaction was shock. Sometime during the day he had noted the date and remembered his birthday. It did matter to him no one remembered it but he had the experience of years hiding such hurt.
But this surprise did blow him. He schooled his features to indifference. He accepted the hugs ,wishes and gifts from everyone including the Zala family. He persisted in his denial to blow the candles . So Khushi came forward and blew them off stating "Now! Done! I had been eyeing that cake for the last 2 hours. Can you please cut it?"
Everyone burst out laughing except a glaring Arnav. Later in the night Arnav went through the gifts everyone.
Armani suit from Mom,Riding Jacket from Ron, iPhone from Sashi uncle,cool set of sunglasses from NK and Akash together, an expensive set of Men grooming items from Mami, a Baume & Mercier watch from Mama and a jeweled cufflink from Nani. Khushi had gifted a double photo frame. One frame had photo of herself and Ma laughing their heart out and another frame had Ma and Papa smiling. He saw a small note inside "I know you got better gifts but this one, I bought with my money. Don't you dare mock me for its worth. Also those were the only photos I had so I used them. Change it as per your taste, Kushi"
The last one was a gift from his Mama ,An appointment letter to Raizada industries as junior reservation specialists with an addendum that an exemplary performance would be appreciated with a quick succession of roles. There was a note from his father. His eyes misted when he read the letter left by his father. "Son, I didn't ask you if you were interested in the hospitality business. But it is the only legacy I have to share with you. If your interest does diversify, make use of this as the foundation from which you can build everything else on your own"
He contemplated the offer for few minutes and decided to try it. He kept all his gifts in the cupboard.
Arnav joined the job. Life progressed for all of them. Arnav passed his board exams with A+ ,Khushi had advanced to 1X. He was promoted in his job as well since he never took his job lightly. Arnav had broke his neck learning for prestigious IIT-JEE exams. He had cleared it and had opted for Computer Science and Engineering His mama had made the arrangements for him to work from his college during weekends.
Saanvika couldn't object to his choice. He was again going to be away from her, this time by his choice. Khushi had argued with him to change his option to Delhi relentlessly despite of him shouting at her . Finally Arnav made the most hurtful comments,obviously not intending to, "Get out! Just because no body says anything doesn't mean you have the right to interfere in my matters. Stay away from me! I just hate you so much with your interference sometimes I think how do I stand your sight at home "
Khushi didn't say a word and left his room. She said her Amma that she had to immediately go home as she forgot to get something from there. She promised that she would be back the next day. Saanvika arranged the driver to drop her home.
Arnav started to airport. He saw that everyone else was present except Khushi. Arnav met Ron at the airport. Ron wished him good luck and gave him two stems of white phalaenopsis orchid informing him Khushi had given it.
Arnav had settled into his life.This time around he had acquired some genuine friends. When you are on your own for quite some time, you will naturally develop the sense to identify the right people provided you observed. Arnav was sure he was right. He was staying in a 3 bedroom flat along with his three other friends. Then there was Lavanya who stayed on the adjacent flat. Arnav considered her to be his first true friend among girls. The girl had common sense and was quite honest. Two things Arnav admired the most.
His other friends were Rohan who was his senior but he met him in one of his drum practice sessions. They hit it off together right away. Rohan was serious but with flare of genuine care and concern for all. There there was Aman who was very lively and funny. When it came to relations, Aman was the most fierce. He would stand up for his friends even if they are right or wrong. Nishant was the calm one with an open pleasing countenance. Arnav had seen Akash in him.
Arnav visited home only during long holidays. His curriculum took care of that. He would call up home to inform his arrival and someone would pick him up from airport. He would have sumptuous food, take rest, go to office to catch up on pending work and sleep on his mother's lap but all the while he never saw Khushi. He thought she had stopped coming to his house but he understood he was wrong when Ma referred to her in every second statement. "Its seems she is missing only when I am around " thought Arnav.
He had gone out with Ron several times but never did he find Khushi.
It seemed she was like a nightmare (atleast that is what Arnav thought) which never happened in real
But when he was at the airport he would religiously get different types of orchids every time.
Once Arnav called at home to inquire about Nani when she wasn't keeping well
Arnav dialed sometime in the night and said "Hello"
There was a pause from the other side and he heard some one yell "Amma, you have a call". He wondered at the happiness he felt on hearing her voice.
It had been three years and time moved on making every one wiser ,stronger and older. Arnav's schedules turned crazy and he had been wrecking his head on his project which never seemed to end. Once he was so angry with some of his classmates' antiques because they pulled his name into a prank which apparently hurt one of the girls dignity, he ended up punching right at one of his classmate's face. He just escaped a suspension. His anger was still on the rise and he needed to vent it. He had few rounds of beer and it didn't help. In a fit he just dialed his home number at 1:00am. To his luck HP picked up the phone. He just asked him to get Khushi.
Khushi said in a whisper : "Hello"
Arnav in a confused voice : "Why are u whispering?"
Khushi: "It is 1:00 in the midnight and people sleep at this time. I don't want to disturb"
Arnav : "Mobile"
Khushi: "9*********"
Khushi rushed to her room to get the mobile. As she reached she saw the mobile lights blinking.
She picked up the call and heard Arnav say "Speak"
She wanted to wrung his neck."Who the hell does he think he is?" she thought
Then she noticed the tone and asked "Drunk?"
Arnav : "Hmmm"
Khushi : "Angry?"
Arnav: "Hmmm"
Khushi sighs and thinks "Does he pay tax for talking? Words are so precious with him"
Instead she starts speaking of Shanthivan and its happenings in random order.
After some time she heard the line go mute. She went back to sleep and so did a calm Arnav.
From then on she gets random calls from Arnav with monosyllable commands and sms . Sometime he would just simply say "Speak". Sometimes he would just message "?"
Khushi sometimes wonders "Devi Maiya ,why does I put up with this crap"
She then consoles herself "Anything for Amma"
"Yeah,right" said a small voice in her head
Once he messaged "Be there. I am coming home" for which she promptly replied "No"
Arnav thought she might have been fooling him with that reply and he truly expected her to be there. But Khushi kept her word. She didn't come.
Arnav messaged her "Why?"
Khushi didn't respond
He had tried to catch her off guard with his unannounced arrival but she always managed to slip off discreetly without meeting him.
He felt isolated from her life. Though she talked once a while , he had noticed that it was never about her. He didn't understand why it bothered him.
The orchids never stopped arriving on his departure
Arnav entered his final year in college and Khushi entered her final year in school. Arnav had to perform the drums with the orchestra as a favor to one of his friend. So he agreed. He informed over some conversation to Ma that he is performing. He had also informed that family is free to join and also shared the seat numbers next to his close friends
It was the day of his performance. He walked to the dais in easy strides in style . He had a strange feeling..a soft wind brushed past him, caressing his shoulder,neck and face...It was so soothing ,he stood still for a moment savoring it and wondering what is that feeling .He is never tensed,he knew that . He had that attitude and aura which exudes confidence and grace. He climbed up to dais and took his seat behind the drums.
He turned to look at his friends and girl friend of three months ,Shilpa, who was seated two rows below from his friends. She never got along well with them.
Suddenly he once again scanned the row occupied by his friends. He saw a girl in green sundress with brown eyes , translucent fair skin and a very infectious innocent smile sitting between Lavanya and his elegantly dressed mother. He caught his breath. He whispered ever so lightly unknowingly as a warmth spread through him "Khushi.."
She was looking at Lavanya and talking to her. She immediately looked up.She gave dazzling smile and showed a thumbs up.He made a barely perceptible nod.
Arnav noticed Lavanya gesture Khushi with her eyes to Shilpa.
"Did the light in her eyes dim? Wishful thinking Arnav...What the..! What am I thinking? !!'
He had to scream in his head to look away from her.
"What The F***! How can she look that grown up and yet innocent?I don't think it is Khushi." He conveniently pushed back the thought "And so beautiful too..."
He should have believed in a God above because only God knows how he managed to keep up the beats to rhythm of the song. He did his performance to the best. Girls were ogling at him and guys literally envied his position.
Completing the performance , Arnav stood up noticing Khushi doubling up with joy and clapping vigorously .He left the stage quietly but confidently. He was joined by Shilpa at the back stage and several other girls falling over themselves on him. Lazily scanning the crowd in backstage, he saw his mother approaching him with his friends. Khushi and Lavanya were missing.
Saanvika was so happy about his performance. She was seeing Arnav performing for the first time. She was afraid to embarrass Arnav by hugging him so she was being very vocal about it. Arnav introduced Rohan , Aman and Nishant. Rohan greeted with "Hi Aunty" ,Aman with a wide smile and a bear hug while Nishant did a namastey. He introduced Shilpa as batch mate and didn't make any further references. Saanvika noticed the girl had large brown eyes,at least 5 foot 6 inch to match Arnav's 6 foot 2 inch with layered cut hair reaching her shoulder and an oval shaped face. She was dressed in a black knee length dress.
Shilpa greeted politely "Hi"
"My son has taste" Saanvika thought to herself while smiling at her kindly
Shilpa then left them to join her friends.While Aman was describing the next events of the night to Saanvika when Arnav felt that breeze again , soothing and warming him at the same time. He instinctively looked to the door to see Khushi walking in with Lavanya.
He had seen Khushi seated before.Now when she is walking in with a glamorous looking Lavanya, Khushi seemed like a breath of fresh air to Arnav. He noticed with raising rage almost all men turned to look at her, including Rohan,Aman and Nishant.
Lavanya and Khushi came to stand beside Saanvika , along with Arnav and his friends. Lavanya introduced Khushi to his friends. Arnav noticed that after giving him a courteous congratulation, Khushi proceeded to converse with rest of his friends. He came to know over dinner from Ma that it was Khushi's idea to surprise him as Ma was afraid that he may be offended. She also informed that it was vacation for Khushi since her board exams were over. That was when he realized she completed schooling.
Khushi was planning to spend some time at her ancestral home in Lucknow .Ma will be returning to Delhi and Khushi to Lucknow the next day. Their local and return travel and accommodation has been arranged in advance.
While he was talking with Ma, Lavanya had gently persuaded Khushi away. Arnav didn't like it. From corner of his eyes he saw Lavanya introducing Khushi to her friends. But to his absolute discomfort, he saw that other guys making way to Lavanya to get introduced to Khushi. He saw Khushi need not have to make an effort at all. Guys were falling at her feet and she was oblivious. He felt an uncontrollable need to hide her from the world and his knuckles were white in his fist. He closed his eyes for a brief moment. Opening his eyes, he gazed directly into a brown orbs which were now looking at him questioningly. After a moment, she smiled brightly at him and he relaxed.
Lavanya had succeeded in getting Ma agree to stay with her in her apartment. So that means Khushi too could stay with her. After dinner they proceeded to their apartments. Lavanya put up Saanvika and Khushi in the spare bedrooms. Lavanya,Saanvika and Khushi spend major part of the night talking while sipping hot chocolate.
Saanvika liked Lavanya. She was frank,lively and honest with no pretense what so ever. Her mannerism suggested her as more of a tom boy though her dressing betrayed her. "Effect of upbringing trying to breakthrough character " thought an amused Saanvika .
She also noticed Lavanya and Khushi instantly gelled well. Lavanya had got permission from Saanvika and Sashi to let Khushi stay with her for a week. .
Khushi while in bed thought of the day. She had stopped dead in her tracks on seeing Arnav enter the dais. She was seeing him after a long time , her natural bubblyness prompted her to run and hug him. But she caught herself in time. She was in a college where he has a reputation to maintain and he couldn't be seen with a plain Jane like herself. He was wearing a black coat over a white shirt and black pants. His shoulders were wider and his well toned muscles in his arms rippled when he was beating the drums. He had the arrogant attitude even while playing. She knew the entire girls in the college must be head-over-heels in love with him. She had find it so difficult to control her blushing when he looked at her with surprise. "Did I fall short of his expectation? ehh?.. Since when am I concerned of his expectation?I tolerate him for Amma"
When she gradually fell asleep hugging her pillow, she was trying to decipher why did she feel as if her entire world crashed when Lavanya introduced Shilpa as his girl friend
Meanwhile Lavanya was in her bed wondering where had she seen Khushi before. For the life of her , she couldn't recall where. She liked Khushi. She was simple ,sweet and lively. With Arnav's mother adoring Khushi ,which was plain to anyone,Lavanya couldn't understand how did Arnav and Khushi escaped without ever having to communicate. She did notice that those two never went beyond a word for the entire night. Khushi was naturally lively with everyone. Lavanya knew many a heart fell in love with Khushi today. "Poor Khushi" thought Lavanya chuckling. She hid her face into the pillow trying to sleep and fell asleep promptly
It was a weekend and they all slept late into the day, except Saanvika. She had risen by 5:00 AM out of her habit of such long years. She did the prayers and made the breakfast. It seemed Lavanya had only cereals, bread ,noodles , cartons of milk and juices . Saanvika smiled to herself and prepared a tea for herself . She then sat on the balcony enjoying the view for a few minutes. The apartment was closer to the college. She was able to see a long path winding to some buildings . The path had coniferous trees lining the paths with a lush green lawn. Saanvika was reminded of a campus which she had walked a long time back. The hopes , aspirations and dreams of youth. The need to prove something beyond a pretty face and a powerful family name. She wondered where have all those gone to?.
Khushi pulled up a chair and sat beside Amma. Saanvika talked with a forlorn look.
"Life as a student provides most of noustalgic moments in life. The carefree days, the hopeful dawns,dreamy nights, the laughter filled banters of friends...Hostel life which is termed hell turns out to be heaven because you couldn't wait to go back to those days when you would wait in queue for food which you wouldn;t have it now even on gun point" she chuckled at the memory and continued
"You still want to go back because you have your other 5 friends waiting for you with the same food but with lots of happenings of the day to be shared.You practically wouldn't know how the food finished. You wouldn't wash your hands for another 1 hour becoz u might miss an important happening being shared .You couldn't wait for those outings to cinema, or those fond recollection of scenes enacted by your friend , or the laughter which echos every time "
She sighed and Khushi didn't make a sound. She continued "But beyond all that , I missed out on who I wanted to be. I missed out on what I wanted to do. Life had given me more opportunities than being offered to many but I misplaced it. I never regretted being married to the wonderful person . I am immensely happy to mother a son and have a beautiful daughter ".
Khushi simply couldn't help feel elated. Despite lost in recollecting her memories, Amma still didn't forget to call her a daughter.
Amma continued as if nothing unusal "In the run to make my family successful, in the effort to be the pillar of my husband's strength I misplaced myself somewhere. " She smiled sadly "But I am determined to not let that happen to you. You will be all you want to be. You will be able to do what you want to do, without the hindrance of born a girl or being in a powerful family. I will not let you take the burden even if it means I have to fight your family"
Khushi couldn't breathe, words were choking her. She wondered will her own mother would have been ready to put up such fight and thought. Probably she would but then she is not here. Amma had no need to do that but Khushi knew, if ever a need arise, she will find Amma standing before her fighting all the way for her. Khushi hugged Saanvika with a force which could have nearly toppled her with a loud sob.
"Pari hai meri, meri sari khushiyaan qurban hai tuch par" said Saanvika smiling.
Lavanya had entered the balcony hearing voices to greet them in the morning. She heard the exchange and was taken back by the earnestness in Saanvika's voice. "Khushi is lucky, she found her guardian angel" thought Lavanya wistfully
"We will call her Pari, what say aunty?" asked Lavanya
"Amma calls me that all the time" said Khushi beaming
"Shall we go and prepare breakfast , Pari" said Lavanya pulling up a lazy Khushi from chair. They were followed by Saanvika.
Lavanya informed them that the boys had their breakfast either from outside or a househelp would prepare it for them. Saanvika waited till it was 9:00 am and rang the bell to Arnav's apartment which was opposite to hers.
Aman opened it with a brush in his mouth. He gestured her to come in , washed his mouth and told her that Arnav would be at his balcony . He had returned from his morning jog. Saanvika found him seated on a recliner reading his newspaper with a black coffee in his hand. Arnav turned around when she called "Good Morning Beta".
She sat besides him on the unoccupied chair and said "I am leaving by 11:00 AM. Pari is staying back"
Arnav assumed Pari must be Khushi. He was hearing it for the first time. He liked it . "What the ..!" He forgot that he had missed close to five years of her growing up with his mom.
She continued with a small smile "Lavanya convinced Sashiji of her stay. She will be here for a week. I don't want to impose her on you, but I am pretty wound up about her. I would prefer nobody,I mean NOBODY, disappoint her. She is naive,innocent and honest.And I want her returned to me that way. I do not want anybody to teach her life's lessons. I am there to do that.I have informed the same to Lavanya"
"Did she just warn me? Was that her voice? God, did she know to be cold!" thought an amused Arnav. Ooh he hadn't seen a mother lion protecting her cub, else he would have never had doubt.
She spend another few minutes and left. Words and communication were always a problem between them since he had been 6 years old.
It was the day before Arnav's birthday. He had spend so much birthday's in boarding school, he simply lost the interest to celebrate it any longer. It used to remind him of his family and his loneliness. So he chose to forget that day. But this time he was at his home . Though he didn't notice the date , everybody else did.
Saanvika was arranging a party for Arnav. Knowing how much he hated to be around unknown people, Saanvika thought to keep it among only the family members and Zala family.
Saanvika and Khushi had gone the day before to buy things for the party. Saanvika got him a black Armani three piece suit as gift.
Next day Arnav woke up, had his usual chores of jogging and bath . When he was back, his mother dragged him to Mandir and applied tikka. Arnav couldn't understand the reason for the insistence to pray today.He just abide for her sake.He left for school
NK and Akash had returned early after letting Arnav know that they didn't have after-school activities. Arnav entered the house to a roaring greeting of "Happy Birthday"
His first reaction was shock. Sometime during the day he had noted the date and remembered his birthday. It did matter to him no one remembered it but he had the experience of years hiding such hurt.
But this surprise did blow him. He schooled his features to indifference. He accepted the hugs ,wishes and gifts from everyone including the Zala family. He persisted in his denial to blow the candles . So Khushi came forward and blew them off stating "Now! Done! I had been eyeing that cake for the last 2 hours. Can you please cut it?"
Everyone burst out laughing except a glaring Arnav. Later in the night Arnav went through the gifts everyone.
Armani suit from Mom,Riding Jacket from Ron, iPhone from Sashi uncle,cool set of sunglasses from NK and Akash together, an expensive set of Men grooming items from Mami, a Baume & Mercier watch from Mama and a jeweled cufflink from Nani. Khushi had gifted a double photo frame. One frame had photo of herself and Ma laughing their heart out and another frame had Ma and Papa smiling. He saw a small note inside "I know you got better gifts but this one, I bought with my money. Don't you dare mock me for its worth. Also those were the only photos I had so I used them. Change it as per your taste, Kushi"
The last one was a gift from his Mama ,An appointment letter to Raizada industries as junior reservation specialists with an addendum that an exemplary performance would be appreciated with a quick succession of roles. There was a note from his father. His eyes misted when he read the letter left by his father. "Son, I didn't ask you if you were interested in the hospitality business. But it is the only legacy I have to share with you. If your interest does diversify, make use of this as the foundation from which you can build everything else on your own"
He contemplated the offer for few minutes and decided to try it. He kept all his gifts in the cupboard.
Arnav joined the job. Life progressed for all of them. Arnav passed his board exams with A+ ,Khushi had advanced to 1X. He was promoted in his job as well since he never took his job lightly. Arnav had broke his neck learning for prestigious IIT-JEE exams. He had cleared it and had opted for Computer Science and Engineering His mama had made the arrangements for him to work from his college during weekends.
Saanvika couldn't object to his choice. He was again going to be away from her, this time by his choice. Khushi had argued with him to change his option to Delhi relentlessly despite of him shouting at her . Finally Arnav made the most hurtful comments,obviously not intending to, "Get out! Just because no body says anything doesn't mean you have the right to interfere in my matters. Stay away from me! I just hate you so much with your interference sometimes I think how do I stand your sight at home "
Khushi didn't say a word and left his room. She said her Amma that she had to immediately go home as she forgot to get something from there. She promised that she would be back the next day. Saanvika arranged the driver to drop her home.
Arnav started to airport. He saw that everyone else was present except Khushi. Arnav met Ron at the airport. Ron wished him good luck and gave him two stems of white phalaenopsis orchid informing him Khushi had given it.
Arnav had settled into his life.This time around he had acquired some genuine friends. When you are on your own for quite some time, you will naturally develop the sense to identify the right people provided you observed. Arnav was sure he was right. He was staying in a 3 bedroom flat along with his three other friends. Then there was Lavanya who stayed on the adjacent flat. Arnav considered her to be his first true friend among girls. The girl had common sense and was quite honest. Two things Arnav admired the most.
His other friends were Rohan who was his senior but he met him in one of his drum practice sessions. They hit it off together right away. Rohan was serious but with flare of genuine care and concern for all. There there was Aman who was very lively and funny. When it came to relations, Aman was the most fierce. He would stand up for his friends even if they are right or wrong. Nishant was the calm one with an open pleasing countenance. Arnav had seen Akash in him.
Arnav visited home only during long holidays. His curriculum took care of that. He would call up home to inform his arrival and someone would pick him up from airport. He would have sumptuous food, take rest, go to office to catch up on pending work and sleep on his mother's lap but all the while he never saw Khushi. He thought she had stopped coming to his house but he understood he was wrong when Ma referred to her in every second statement. "Its seems she is missing only when I am around " thought Arnav.
He had gone out with Ron several times but never did he find Khushi.
It seemed she was like a nightmare (atleast that is what Arnav thought) which never happened in real
But when he was at the airport he would religiously get different types of orchids every time.
Once Arnav called at home to inquire about Nani when she wasn't keeping well
Arnav dialed sometime in the night and said "Hello"
There was a pause from the other side and he heard some one yell "Amma, you have a call". He wondered at the happiness he felt on hearing her voice.
It had been three years and time moved on making every one wiser ,stronger and older. Arnav's schedules turned crazy and he had been wrecking his head on his project which never seemed to end. Once he was so angry with some of his classmates' antiques because they pulled his name into a prank which apparently hurt one of the girls dignity, he ended up punching right at one of his classmate's face. He just escaped a suspension. His anger was still on the rise and he needed to vent it. He had few rounds of beer and it didn't help. In a fit he just dialed his home number at 1:00am. To his luck HP picked up the phone. He just asked him to get Khushi.
Khushi said in a whisper : "Hello"
Arnav in a confused voice : "Why are u whispering?"
Khushi: "It is 1:00 in the midnight and people sleep at this time. I don't want to disturb"
Arnav : "Mobile"
Khushi: "9*********"
Khushi rushed to her room to get the mobile. As she reached she saw the mobile lights blinking.
She picked up the call and heard Arnav say "Speak"
She wanted to wrung his neck."Who the hell does he think he is?" she thought
Then she noticed the tone and asked "Drunk?"
Arnav : "Hmmm"
Khushi : "Angry?"
Arnav: "Hmmm"
Khushi sighs and thinks "Does he pay tax for talking? Words are so precious with him"
Instead she starts speaking of Shanthivan and its happenings in random order.
After some time she heard the line go mute. She went back to sleep and so did a calm Arnav.
From then on she gets random calls from Arnav with monosyllable commands and sms . Sometime he would just simply say "Speak". Sometimes he would just message "?"
Khushi sometimes wonders "Devi Maiya ,why does I put up with this crap"
She then consoles herself "Anything for Amma"
"Yeah,right" said a small voice in her head
Once he messaged "Be there. I am coming home" for which she promptly replied "No"
Arnav thought she might have been fooling him with that reply and he truly expected her to be there. But Khushi kept her word. She didn't come.
Arnav messaged her "Why?"
Khushi didn't respond
He had tried to catch her off guard with his unannounced arrival but she always managed to slip off discreetly without meeting him.
He felt isolated from her life. Though she talked once a while , he had noticed that it was never about her. He didn't understand why it bothered him.
The orchids never stopped arriving on his departure
Arnav entered his final year in college and Khushi entered her final year in school. Arnav had to perform the drums with the orchestra as a favor to one of his friend. So he agreed. He informed over some conversation to Ma that he is performing. He had also informed that family is free to join and also shared the seat numbers next to his close friends
It was the day of his performance. He walked to the dais in easy strides in style . He had a strange feeling..a soft wind brushed past him, caressing his shoulder,neck and face...It was so soothing ,he stood still for a moment savoring it and wondering what is that feeling .He is never tensed,he knew that . He had that attitude and aura which exudes confidence and grace. He climbed up to dais and took his seat behind the drums.
He turned to look at his friends and girl friend of three months ,Shilpa, who was seated two rows below from his friends. She never got along well with them.
Suddenly he once again scanned the row occupied by his friends. He saw a girl in green sundress with brown eyes , translucent fair skin and a very infectious innocent smile sitting between Lavanya and his elegantly dressed mother. He caught his breath. He whispered ever so lightly unknowingly as a warmth spread through him "Khushi.."
She was looking at Lavanya and talking to her. She immediately looked up.She gave dazzling smile and showed a thumbs up.He made a barely perceptible nod.
Arnav noticed Lavanya gesture Khushi with her eyes to Shilpa.
"Did the light in her eyes dim? Wishful thinking Arnav...What the..! What am I thinking? !!'
He had to scream in his head to look away from her.
"What The F***! How can she look that grown up and yet innocent?I don't think it is Khushi." He conveniently pushed back the thought "And so beautiful too..."
He should have believed in a God above because only God knows how he managed to keep up the beats to rhythm of the song. He did his performance to the best. Girls were ogling at him and guys literally envied his position.
Completing the performance , Arnav stood up noticing Khushi doubling up with joy and clapping vigorously .He left the stage quietly but confidently. He was joined by Shilpa at the back stage and several other girls falling over themselves on him. Lazily scanning the crowd in backstage, he saw his mother approaching him with his friends. Khushi and Lavanya were missing.
Saanvika was so happy about his performance. She was seeing Arnav performing for the first time. She was afraid to embarrass Arnav by hugging him so she was being very vocal about it. Arnav introduced Rohan , Aman and Nishant. Rohan greeted with "Hi Aunty" ,Aman with a wide smile and a bear hug while Nishant did a namastey. He introduced Shilpa as batch mate and didn't make any further references. Saanvika noticed the girl had large brown eyes,at least 5 foot 6 inch to match Arnav's 6 foot 2 inch with layered cut hair reaching her shoulder and an oval shaped face. She was dressed in a black knee length dress.
Shilpa greeted politely "Hi"
"My son has taste" Saanvika thought to herself while smiling at her kindly
Shilpa then left them to join her friends.While Aman was describing the next events of the night to Saanvika when Arnav felt that breeze again , soothing and warming him at the same time. He instinctively looked to the door to see Khushi walking in with Lavanya.
He had seen Khushi seated before.Now when she is walking in with a glamorous looking Lavanya, Khushi seemed like a breath of fresh air to Arnav. He noticed with raising rage almost all men turned to look at her, including Rohan,Aman and Nishant.
Lavanya and Khushi came to stand beside Saanvika , along with Arnav and his friends. Lavanya introduced Khushi to his friends. Arnav noticed that after giving him a courteous congratulation, Khushi proceeded to converse with rest of his friends. He came to know over dinner from Ma that it was Khushi's idea to surprise him as Ma was afraid that he may be offended. She also informed that it was vacation for Khushi since her board exams were over. That was when he realized she completed schooling.
Khushi was planning to spend some time at her ancestral home in Lucknow .Ma will be returning to Delhi and Khushi to Lucknow the next day. Their local and return travel and accommodation has been arranged in advance.
While he was talking with Ma, Lavanya had gently persuaded Khushi away. Arnav didn't like it. From corner of his eyes he saw Lavanya introducing Khushi to her friends. But to his absolute discomfort, he saw that other guys making way to Lavanya to get introduced to Khushi. He saw Khushi need not have to make an effort at all. Guys were falling at her feet and she was oblivious. He felt an uncontrollable need to hide her from the world and his knuckles were white in his fist. He closed his eyes for a brief moment. Opening his eyes, he gazed directly into a brown orbs which were now looking at him questioningly. After a moment, she smiled brightly at him and he relaxed.
Lavanya had succeeded in getting Ma agree to stay with her in her apartment. So that means Khushi too could stay with her. After dinner they proceeded to their apartments. Lavanya put up Saanvika and Khushi in the spare bedrooms. Lavanya,Saanvika and Khushi spend major part of the night talking while sipping hot chocolate.
Saanvika liked Lavanya. She was frank,lively and honest with no pretense what so ever. Her mannerism suggested her as more of a tom boy though her dressing betrayed her. "Effect of upbringing trying to breakthrough character " thought an amused Saanvika .
She also noticed Lavanya and Khushi instantly gelled well. Lavanya had got permission from Saanvika and Sashi to let Khushi stay with her for a week. .
Khushi while in bed thought of the day. She had stopped dead in her tracks on seeing Arnav enter the dais. She was seeing him after a long time , her natural bubblyness prompted her to run and hug him. But she caught herself in time. She was in a college where he has a reputation to maintain and he couldn't be seen with a plain Jane like herself. He was wearing a black coat over a white shirt and black pants. His shoulders were wider and his well toned muscles in his arms rippled when he was beating the drums. He had the arrogant attitude even while playing. She knew the entire girls in the college must be head-over-heels in love with him. She had find it so difficult to control her blushing when he looked at her with surprise. "Did I fall short of his expectation? ehh?.. Since when am I concerned of his expectation?I tolerate him for Amma"
When she gradually fell asleep hugging her pillow, she was trying to decipher why did she feel as if her entire world crashed when Lavanya introduced Shilpa as his girl friend
Meanwhile Lavanya was in her bed wondering where had she seen Khushi before. For the life of her , she couldn't recall where. She liked Khushi. She was simple ,sweet and lively. With Arnav's mother adoring Khushi ,which was plain to anyone,Lavanya couldn't understand how did Arnav and Khushi escaped without ever having to communicate. She did notice that those two never went beyond a word for the entire night. Khushi was naturally lively with everyone. Lavanya knew many a heart fell in love with Khushi today. "Poor Khushi" thought Lavanya chuckling. She hid her face into the pillow trying to sleep and fell asleep promptly
It was a weekend and they all slept late into the day, except Saanvika. She had risen by 5:00 AM out of her habit of such long years. She did the prayers and made the breakfast. It seemed Lavanya had only cereals, bread ,noodles , cartons of milk and juices . Saanvika smiled to herself and prepared a tea for herself . She then sat on the balcony enjoying the view for a few minutes. The apartment was closer to the college. She was able to see a long path winding to some buildings . The path had coniferous trees lining the paths with a lush green lawn. Saanvika was reminded of a campus which she had walked a long time back. The hopes , aspirations and dreams of youth. The need to prove something beyond a pretty face and a powerful family name. She wondered where have all those gone to?.
Khushi pulled up a chair and sat beside Amma. Saanvika talked with a forlorn look.
"Life as a student provides most of noustalgic moments in life. The carefree days, the hopeful dawns,dreamy nights, the laughter filled banters of friends...Hostel life which is termed hell turns out to be heaven because you couldn't wait to go back to those days when you would wait in queue for food which you wouldn;t have it now even on gun point" she chuckled at the memory and continued
"You still want to go back because you have your other 5 friends waiting for you with the same food but with lots of happenings of the day to be shared.You practically wouldn't know how the food finished. You wouldn't wash your hands for another 1 hour becoz u might miss an important happening being shared .You couldn't wait for those outings to cinema, or those fond recollection of scenes enacted by your friend , or the laughter which echos every time "
She sighed and Khushi didn't make a sound. She continued "But beyond all that , I missed out on who I wanted to be. I missed out on what I wanted to do. Life had given me more opportunities than being offered to many but I misplaced it. I never regretted being married to the wonderful person . I am immensely happy to mother a son and have a beautiful daughter ".
Khushi simply couldn't help feel elated. Despite lost in recollecting her memories, Amma still didn't forget to call her a daughter.
Amma continued as if nothing unusal "In the run to make my family successful, in the effort to be the pillar of my husband's strength I misplaced myself somewhere. " She smiled sadly "But I am determined to not let that happen to you. You will be all you want to be. You will be able to do what you want to do, without the hindrance of born a girl or being in a powerful family. I will not let you take the burden even if it means I have to fight your family"
Khushi couldn't breathe, words were choking her. She wondered will her own mother would have been ready to put up such fight and thought. Probably she would but then she is not here. Amma had no need to do that but Khushi knew, if ever a need arise, she will find Amma standing before her fighting all the way for her. Khushi hugged Saanvika with a force which could have nearly toppled her with a loud sob.
"Pari hai meri, meri sari khushiyaan qurban hai tuch par" said Saanvika smiling.
Lavanya had entered the balcony hearing voices to greet them in the morning. She heard the exchange and was taken back by the earnestness in Saanvika's voice. "Khushi is lucky, she found her guardian angel" thought Lavanya wistfully
"We will call her Pari, what say aunty?" asked Lavanya
"Amma calls me that all the time" said Khushi beaming
"Shall we go and prepare breakfast , Pari" said Lavanya pulling up a lazy Khushi from chair. They were followed by Saanvika.
Lavanya informed them that the boys had their breakfast either from outside or a househelp would prepare it for them. Saanvika waited till it was 9:00 am and rang the bell to Arnav's apartment which was opposite to hers.
Aman opened it with a brush in his mouth. He gestured her to come in , washed his mouth and told her that Arnav would be at his balcony . He had returned from his morning jog. Saanvika found him seated on a recliner reading his newspaper with a black coffee in his hand. Arnav turned around when she called "Good Morning Beta".
She sat besides him on the unoccupied chair and said "I am leaving by 11:00 AM. Pari is staying back"
Arnav assumed Pari must be Khushi. He was hearing it for the first time. He liked it . "What the ..!" He forgot that he had missed close to five years of her growing up with his mom.
She continued with a small smile "Lavanya convinced Sashiji of her stay. She will be here for a week. I don't want to impose her on you, but I am pretty wound up about her. I would prefer nobody,I mean NOBODY, disappoint her. She is naive,innocent and honest.And I want her returned to me that way. I do not want anybody to teach her life's lessons. I am there to do that.I have informed the same to Lavanya"
"Did she just warn me? Was that her voice? God, did she know to be cold!" thought an amused Arnav. Ooh he hadn't seen a mother lion protecting her cub, else he would have never had doubt.
She spend another few minutes and left. Words and communication were always a problem between them since he had been 6 years old.
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