Part 3

He never saw Khushi this much eager to eat. He patted her back when she choked while eating food.

“Careful damn it... Why are you eating so fast? Can’t you be relaxed? Crazy girl... eat slowly”

“What to do Arnav... It’s long time I had Indian food. In fact it’s long time I had food full of my tummy. I can’t lose this chance Arnav. Don’t disturb me” she smiled sadly making him gulp.

“Shh... it’s ok... now onwards you will have whatever you want to. I will make sure of that. Now relax and eat.” Saying this he touched her head affectionately.

Suddenly she shouted “Jilebies??? Oh my god Arnav... thank you so much Arnav... Thanks for these Jilebies...” she hugged him with so much excitement. He returned the hug while patting her back. He smiled seeing her crazy craving for Jilebies.

They sat in living room after finishing their lunch. Arnav kept pillows beside and behind her to make her comfortable and kept her swelled foots on the tea table. He massaged her feet for some time.

“Um... Khushi... Arnav asked me to take an appointment with doctor, which I did. They told me to bring you along with previous reports like scanning and blood test. Do we have any?” asked Aman.

She nodded her head in negative looking on the floor.

“It’s ok... no problem we can take them now. Evening four is your appointment. Get ready ok?”

She nodded her head

“But Pari... How you ended up in homeless shelter? I mean... Shyam...”

“Shyam is dead” tears pooled out from her eyes.

“What!!??” Arnav and Aman shocked

“Yes... he died in a car accident.” Arnav immediately held her tightly in his embrace. He knew how much she loved Shyam.

“Then why are you here? Why didn't you go back to India to your parents? Why didn't you call ASR at least?” asked Aman.

“Our parents are against to our marriage” she said in a calm tone.

“What? But Khushi they agreed that time right?” asked Arnav

“Yes, they agreed because you were there. But when we got married you were not there. And his parents never accepted me. So, we both got married in registrar office. He struggled so much for keeping me happy. He never gave me any pain as you thought. He was really a good person to me. He really pampered me a lot. We came here 8 months back, just one month before his death. He saved me from that accident giving up his life for me. I never expected this. I knew he loved me. But to this extent, I never expected Arnav. I was in a shock to digest the news. I was not even in a state to inform our parents. Officials informed his parents. They came here to collect his body for further rituals. They literally threw me from the house and threatened me saying if I again try to talk with them they will file a case against me. They said I’m the reason for their son’s death. They cursed me. They left me no chance to come to India. I didn't even have money for my food. I stayed in government organisation for some days. I was scared Arnav. I didn't know anything that time. I didn't even know how to start my life. That time I came to know that I’m pregnant. One day I fainted in the organisation and they examined me and told me that I’m carrying a life inside me. I’m confused that time thinking whether to keep this baby or not”

Both Arnav and Aman gasped. She continued “Then I asked some officials to show some work. I couldn't kill an innocent life just like that. Can I? She deserves to live her life. Doesn't she? So, I decided to work for her. Then I joined here to work. After one month I came to know that whatever the money I’m earning it’s not enough for my medicines, food and all. So I stopped using public transport. I stopped spending money for myself. I couldn't stay for long in organisation. I searched a place to hide myself at nights which I found in this homeless shelter. At starting I used to come early here and stand in the queue to get the bed. Because if I come late they won’t allow me as beds be filled. After some days, manager came to know that I’m pregnant. So she reserved one bed for me, so that I can come to shelter without hurry. I am saving all my money for my delivery. Nothing I have with me to give to my child.” She sadly smiled a little with tears drenching her cheeks and continued “Yesterday only I thought of you. I thought if you are with me all these wouldn’t have happened to me. I also mentioned you with my manager. I really missing you Arnav as much I’m missing Shyam. You two are the persons I have in this world. He was gone... I thought I lost you also” she burst in crying.

Arnav immediately hugged her tightly by her side and hushed her from saying anything.

“You didn't lose me Pari... I’m here with you... I’m really sorry about Shyam... and not believing him. I was just being over protective about you. But I never thought Shyam will leave us like this. I’m sorry Pari... I’m really sorry for not being with you, when you needed me most. And Shyam... I can’t bring him back. But I will do whatever you want me to do. I promise you dear... I will never ever leave your side till my last breath. You are my Pari... how can I leave you? I just simply can’t” he kissed her on her hair assuring her that she has him. Aman was so proud seeing his friend and his genuine affection towards Khushi. He knew, there is no any bad thought or bad intention in Arnav's kiss, but it's just a friendly gesture… pure genuine friendly kiss.

“And you don't forget that you have a brother here. Whatever you want – which Arnav denies to give you mentioning your health – you can ask me. I will give that to you, without letting him know” said Aman trying to lighten the gloomy atmosphere.

“What the!! Aman? How can you?” he stopped by hearing a smiling sound from his Pari.

Both Arnav and Aman looked at her affectionately. Aman sat in front of her shocking Arnav and Khushi, touched her cheeks and said “Don't think much about past. I know it’s very difficult to forget our loved once. But you have to... not for yourself... but for your daughter... you have to be happy all the time for her. If you can’t be happy all the time, ok I can understand. But you shouldn’t be sad. Try to divert your mind from your past. You have Arnav now. He will take care of you. You no need to worry about anything. But just you stay with him. Don't leave him at any time. Stay happy at least try to be happy all the time”

Khushi looked at Arnav, who is equally shocked as her. She composed herself and said “As long as Arnav is with me. I will Aman Ji...” she smiled at them

“Pari... we need to go to doctor in some time. Do you want to rest for few moments?”

“No Arnav... I’m fine.”

“Fine then... I arranged some dresses for you. Go and change. And let me know if you want anything... ok? Go now... don't be late and wear soft material bigger in size” nodding her head Khushi went to guest room to change. She was surprised to see all the sizes of all the type of dresses in the wardrobe. She selected one soft cotton chudidar to get ready

Meanwhile in living room

“I’m sorry Arnav”

“For what?”

“For talking with Khushi like that. I think I made you both uncomfortable. I just can’t see you sad whenever you see her sad. I know your happiness lies in her. If she is happy then you surely will be happy. That’s the reason I asked her to be happy all the time. Please Arnav... stay happy always” saying this he hugged his best friend tightly

Arnav is taken aback with this affection from his friend. But he hugged Aman back accepting his affection.

“Arnav... can I ask you something?”

“No need Aman... I know what you want to ask. The answer is NO... I never am going to propose her. I don't want to push her in a relationship where she couldn't be comfortable. Let her accept the present now. Let her relax for some time... let her start to live her life with her daughter. If she feels like she needs a man’s support as her daughter’s father and if she can accept me then I will be there for her. It’s simple Aman... I can’t lose my best friend for my love. She needs me as a friend now. I can never ever disappoint her. I just can’t...” they stopped their talks hearing the door clicked open.

“Ready?” asked Arnav

Nodding her head she followed Aman along with Arnav to the parking lot.

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

“I’m scared Arnav... what will doctor say?”

“Relax Pari... everything will be fine. Let doctor come first...”

“Hmm... Mr...” Doctor took a pause to know the name of the man sitting in front of her

“Raizada”

“Mr. And Mrs. Raizada...” she continued her talks without noticing the shock on the Arnav and Khushi’s faces “Everything is fine. Your daughter is also fine and healthy. Only thing is Mrs. Raizada is too weak. I think she isn’t taking any medicines and proper food. What’s say Mrs. Raizada?”

“Doctor... first of all... she is not Raizada... she is Mrs. Jha, my friend. I am just accompanying her for her check up”

“Oh sorry... tell me Mrs. Jha... Aren’t you taking any medicines? Can I know why like this? And where is your husband??” asked doctor

Arnav nodded a no to doctor as hinting her not to ask anything about that. Doctor sensed something wrong.

“Um... I... I...”

“Hmm... Doctor her husband died in a car accident. She couldn't take care of her with enough money. Whatever she is earning it’s hardly enough for the medicines you are mentioning. And one thing... we can’t change whatever happened. So, can you please forward the treatment? I want her and her baby safe and sound, healthy and fine. Please give the required medicines.” Both Khushi and doctor sensed an irritation along with a slight anger in his tone. Khushi held his arm as controlling his anger.

“Hmm it’s ok... but please from now onwards take care. As this is your last trimester you have to be little careful. But there is nothing to worry about it. Just relax, try to be stay happy all the time, eat healthy food and lastly don't forget to take your medicines. Then everything will be fine. Here is the prescription for you.”

“I will take care of that... and doctor... one thing I want to be sure. Can she travel to India? I mean it will take 18 hours from here. Can she? Because, I can’t stay here for long time. I can be here only for three days more. After that I need to go back to my home. At the same time I can’t leave her here alone. I want her with me. So please check her thoroughly and tell me” he almost ordered the doctor.

Doctor can see the eagerness and affection in this man’s eyes. She is amazed to see this possessiveness for a friend. She nodded and gave some test to Khushi again with the insistence of Arnav. After getting the test, she allowed Khushi to travel back to India with some care and lots of rest, which Arnav promised doctor. (A/N If the mother-to-be is perfectly fine in her condition, almost all countries will allow the lady to travel till her seventh month end it seems. My cousin went to US in her 8 month. Sorry if you won’t agree with this)

He informed his family about Khushi’s condition and their arrival to India in next three days. He also informed about Shyam’s departure and his family’s assault towards Khushi. Arnav's family felt bad for Khushi but they assured him that they will take care of her and she will be fine with them, no need to worry. He sighed in relief and also requested them to keep things hide about his love towards Khushi which they agreed non-heartedly.

Next three days were really hectic for Arnav. But he never let Khushi feel like she is alone. He called her every half an hour to know about her health. Aman arranged all the required things to Khushi to travel back. He took all the care to make her journey comfortable. With the full rest of three days, Khushi looked little fine and healthy, all thanks to Arnav. After completion of Arnav’s office work, they left to India in his private jet. Arnav changed the bedroom interior in his jet as per Khushi’s comfort. He arranged cushions all over the jet. He also changed the couches in jet. He arranged some dresses for Khushi to get changed whenever she feels suffocated in her attire.  He didn't want to take any risk about her health. His eyes never left her face. He already mentioned to his pilot, if he finds any uneasiness then the pilot has to land the flight nearby airport. But still he is feeling scared about her. ‘What if she feels any discomfort when they are above the see?’ that thought itself scared him to the core. For first time, he prayed to the power of almighty to save his friend, to let her safe and sound till their journey ends.

***********

After a long 18 hours of journey, they landed in Delhi airport. Before going to RM, Arnav drove Khushi to hospital to give her a check up with gynaecologist. After getting confirmation from doctor that Khushi and her daughter is perfectly fine, then only he drove back to home to meet his family.

All the Raizada’s were shocked to see the weak, tiny and petite yet most beautiful girl with a mesmerizing smile in front of them. Arnav and Aman chuckled silently seeing his family’s reaction. Slowly, Khushi smile fade away getting no response from them. Khushi looked at them with confusion and tension in her face. But nobody said anything. They kept staring her making her hell tensed. Their trance broke with the words of Khushi

“Uncle... Aunty... If you don't like me here in your house, then I will leave now. I’m sorry for making you all uncomfortable with my arrival” everybody got their shock. She took their silence as their rejection towards her. Everybody looked at Arnav, whose face turned into a bright red in anger. They know the reason for his anger – for letting her think as unwanted, for not giving much required attention to her. Immediately Mr. Raizada tried to control the situation “No dear... if you are important to Arnav, you are for us as well. Don't feel like that. From last six years we heard him saying lot things about you. When we saw you we lost in those memories. That’s all. You are most welcome into my home dear. From now onwards, this is not only Arnav’s home, but also yours. Make yourself comfortable here” saying this he patted her head lovingly.

Khushi smiled at him and turned to other family members. Everybody wished her and welcomed her into their house. Arnav’s mother took the arathi for her as welcoming her and hugged her tightly. Khushi also returned her hug.

“Pari... this is what your Arnav calls you, right? But you deserve that name. You are indeed an Angel. Now I want to say one thing dear, don't forget that you are equal to my sons and daughters. How much Anjali, Arnav, Akash and Arthi are important to us, you are also same as them. This is your house. Don't hesitate to ask whatever you want. Ok?” saying this she kissed Khushi’s forehead.

Later Anjali, Akash and Arthi introduced themselves to her. She immediately befriended with them. They stopped their chit chatting seeing a serious look on Arnav’s face. Anjali made Khushi rest in guest room. Later they went to shop for Khushi. Khushi adjusted in Arnav’s house with his family very well. Now everybody clearly knows why Arnav loves her that much. But nobody dared to tell her about Arnav’s feelings.

After Khushi left to her room after having dinner, all the Raizada’s assembled in living room by Mr. Raizada’s call.

“Arnav... what’s next?”

“Dad... I know what’s you are going to ask. But my answer is NO. I never am going to propose her. I don't want to push her in a relationship where she couldn't be comfortable. Let her accept the present now. Let her relax for some time... let her start to live her life with her daughter. Dad... I can’t lose my best friend for my love. She needs me as a friend now. I can never ever disappoint her. I just can’t... if anyone has any problem, and then let me know... I will make other arrangements for Khushi’s stay”

“No Arnav... I didn't mean that. I just wanted to know your decision. Whatever you decide I will be with you. If you can see her as your best friend rather than lover, then there is no point for argument” said Mr. Raizada.

“Yeah Chote... we don't have any problem with Khushi... in fact we will be very glad if she stays here. What’s you say Akash? Arthi?”

“Yeah Bhai... we don't have any problem with her. She is such a nice girl” with that Khushi’s stay in RM is confirmed.

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

After two months, Khushi gave birth to a baby girl - Sahana, who is alike her mother. Her smile, her eyes, her skin, her colour, her hair everything reminds her mother. When days are going on, Sahana developed a great bond with Arnav. It’s very difficult for anyone to separate them. Sometimes, it’s very difficult for Khushi to console her where as Arnav doing that very easily. Whenever he takes her in his arms, she kept quite. If she wants to play, she needs Arnav, if she wants to sleep she needs Arnav, if she wants to eat again Arnav should be there. Totally she is Arnav’s girl. He arranged everything for Khushi and Sahana for their comfortable living. But he never took freedom to interfere in Khushi’s personal life. He never let her doubt about his feelings for her. He’s very careful about that. And also he never allowed anyone to talk about his feelings in front of Khushi. He knew that she is still missing Shyam. He doesn’t want to force her.

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

It’s almost one year from Sahana’s birth. Everybody sat in living room after their evening snacks along with Sahana playing with Arnav. Mr. Raizada is talking with Akash, regarding some business they are planning to expand in other cities. Mr. Raizada discusses everything first with his elder son. If Arnav agrees with that then only the news will come out. So for now there is no need for Arnav in this discussion as he already knows that.

“But Dad... Bhai...”

Suddenly Sahana held Arnav’s face in her tiny hands and said “Dada” after hearing Akash calling Mr. Raizada as Dad

Everybody shocked to hear her first word. Arnav looked at everyone, who is equally shocked like him. He passed a sorry look towards Khushi, who is in tears now. He hates to see those tears. He turned to Sahana and tried to make her understand, well aware of her age where she can’t understand the proper relations.

“No darling... I’m not you daddy. You shouldn’t call me that” he tried to make her understand. He only knows how difficult it is for him.

“Why not?” asked Mrs. Raizada. Being mother of ASR, she can understand his inner turmoil.

“MAA...” he almost shouted on her nodding his head negatively.

But she is not ready this time. She wants to see her son live happily with his love – Khushi. She promised to herself to fix this problem. Luckily this pure soul in Arnav’s arms supported her indirectly and gave her a chance to make it correct

“What Arnav? What you want to say? May be Khushi doesn’t need a husband, but Sahana needs father’s love.” She paused for few moments and turned to Khushi “Khushi betiya... tell me one thing. Do you have any plans to getting married again?” Mrs. Raizada asked shocking her. Khushi looked at her shockingly. “Tell me betiya...”

Khushi nodded her head in a NO weakly.

“Oh... Then what about Sahana? Doesn’t she deserve father’s care?”

“What the hell is this mom?” said Arnav in irritation. He doesn’t want to make Khushi uncomfortable. He can see where this topic is going.

“Watch you word Arnav. I’m not your bloody employee” Mrs. Raizada retorted shocking everyone including Mr. Raizada.

“Tell me Khushi...” she is serious now

“I don't know aunty”

“Hmm... dear... as an elder member of this family and an aged WOMAN, let me tell you one thing. Parenting a child is not an easy task dear. We need support. We need a person, whom we can say as our husband, a person whom we can say our man. It’s very difficult to raise a girl without husband’s help. You can’t face the world, you can’t answer the questions of your daughter when she starts going to school. People don't let her live in peace. Don't think I’m trying to scare. I didn't mean to. But before you decide anything remember one thing that Sahana betiya needs a father’s care” Mrs. Raizada said.

“No aunty, I know you are saying all these for mine and my daughter’s lives. But aunty... I don't know. I can... I mean me and Sahana can... I...”

“One minute betiya... I’m not saying all these because of you. I’m saying all these because of my son – your Arnav. Because he can’t live without you or Sahana anymore”

“Mom... just stop it” tried Arnav.

Khushi looked confusedly to Arnav who is getting panic and Mrs. Raizada who is talking very calmly.

“Yes betiya... he can’t live without you two. He loves you”

... to be continued