Khushi's Web

Chapter 3

16/07/22

'How could you Aman? Khushi went missing and you kept quiet? You didn't think it was necessary to tell me?'

'You said not to call unless if the ocean was drying ASR?'

'And you think Khushi missing is not an ocean drying up? You know what she means to me, she is my whole world damn it. I shouldn't have left her.'

'Let's not talk of what if's ASR. The team is already digging. Should I ask HP to bring you something to eat?'

'Do I look like I can eat Aman? I want Khushi back.'

'You need all the energy to look for her and to keep your sugar levels balanced. You're stressed as it is.'

'Fine tell him to bring something light and you can go to the office...'

'Office? No ASR, I will go and see how I can help Avni and Zoya.'

'Aman, I know you care for Khushi a lot, but I don't want this out. You can do what you want while in the office. What if it's our rivals? We can't leave anything to chance. Open your eyes and ears there and do what you do best.'

'What about Sheetal?'

'Leave her. I know the police will question her at some point but for now let's just watch and wait. Besides, she has a strong alibi. She was in Delhi when—when—'

'I get it. Its ok I will go to the office. Take care of yourself ASR.'

'Sure. And thank you Aman.'

Once Aman was gone ASR began to walk around his house again. True, there were no signs of struggle. Everything was on its place as Khushi liked and even her handbag and her phone was in the house. She was attached unawares in her own home. The perpetrator must have had access. Damn her trusting nature and her kindness. How could she expose herself to danger like that, dismissing all the staff? Let her come, he will give it to her.

Screaming in frustration, he kicked and threw things around only to stop as he saw Payal holding a tray with food.

'Payal is Khushi at your house? Is she angry with me? Tell her to forgive her Arnavji, I know I shouldn't have walked out on her but what can I say I'm stupid as always. Please Payal...'

'Arnavji, please stop. Our Khushi is really missing and yes she was angry at you and sorry too.'

'Sorry, why? I'm the one who walked out.'

'For hurting you.'

'Oh no, it's all my fault, I know she must have taken all the guilt on her. I love her so much Payal yet I'm the only one who hurts her always.'

'I'm sure it hurts because you both love each other. Let's focus on finding her. I'm here to help and that starts with you eating your food.'

'Thanks, Payal but your shop and Akash and the boys...'

Payal cut him. 'The shop is in good hands and Akash is on vacation with the boys?'

'Oh, some men bonding. He told me. I must say its high time you have a girl and stick it to his face for leaving you alone.'

'To be honest, I'm a little happy. I get my me time. Those brats can be too much.'

'Hey, watch it, they are my cool monkeys.'

'You say it right, monkeys. They only know how to trouble me.' Payal watched as Arnav smiled and she was glad she got him smiling at such a moment. Khushi had told her years ago how he loathed children but all that changed with the birth of her boys, Dhruv and Zoya's twin girls. These five children brought the fun side of ASR that was only reserved for Khushi.