Choti Si Duniya - ArShi FF

97. Social & Asocial Raizadas

I/N - if you're a silent reader, can you please close the tab now itself? thanks.

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When Khushi woke up that Sunday morning, in her cozy bed, surrounded by her husband's warmth and her kids snuggled closer to her sides- Chiku on one and the twins perfectly fitting in the tiny space between her and Arnav and the family of five lying wrapped in their fluffy comforter, instantly brought a smile on her face. She looked at the table clock, it showed half past 8, way past her usual wake up time. But since it was a Sunday, that too during winter break of kids, and cold winter blanketing the city, she allowed herself a few more minutes in bed! Whoever named it gulabi thandi (rosy winter) must have forgotten to add "lazy" winter in it, she mused, while caressing Pari's equally rosy cheeks! She snuggled further in Khushi's side in response making her mamma peck her soft little head.

She started going over the day's plan in her mind. It would be an easy day, she, and Arnav both didn't have work, festive season was over so no shopping or making food items, kids' school had holidays so no homework either. Just some Sunday special food with Jiji and then a lazy afternoon nap, she mentally rubbed her hands in glee!

Instantly, her brain reminded her of a commitment they had today. They were invited for a housewarming at Jatin-Nisha's new penthouse!

The family was very close to Raizadas, Jatin was Arnav's friend-one of the only handful "friends" from Harvard, his wife Nisha had become Khushi's good friend over the years -both ladies being chatterboxes and then bonding over their kids who were of same age, and finally Rucha- the only kid of Jatin-Nisha was Chiku's best friend!

It was imperative they had to attend it.

It was a whole day's event. A small pooja and lunch was kept in the morning where only close families were invited- Raizadas being special invitees and then there was a party in the evening where a larger gathering was expected.

But Khushi knew it was going to be tough convincing her husband to attend it!

In the 12-13 years of their married life, she could count of fingers of how many events he willingly attended. After all, he was a typical introvert! But they had to attend today's, lest their kids also follow in Laad governor's footsteps. It was ok if they did in other matters, but they must take after her in socializing, she decided.

.

.

She broached the topic tentatively, after they had breakfast in their room itself and kids were playing around. Chiku was engrossed in a videogame while pari was busy in her color book. Aru on the other hand was busy playing with her father in a game he himself had invented for her, 'Simba'!

"It's not that important, Khushi. I'll call Jatin, he'll understand." Arnav said while balancing Aru on his legs when Khushi reminded about the party.

"What 'it's not important', Arnavji? It IS important. Humein zarur jaana chahiye (we must go)."

"Then you go, me and my kids are happy at home, hai na princess?" he replied to Khushi and asked Aru who giggled in reply. The duo continued playing with Aru who was pulling his cheeks, making a lion King look on her dada's face!

Khushi resisted her urge to reprimand her husband- not because she couldn't- but because kids were watching!

"You need to socialize Arnavji. Devi maiyya ka shukar hai at least Chiku is like me, but your daughters are fast learning your skills. Pari ka abhi kuch samajh nahi aata (Pari's traits aren't as visible yet) but Aru, every time we have a few guests at home she looks at them as if they stole something from us!" Khushi complained in irritation. It was true, Aru always became cranky and annoyed when Shantivan had gathering of people!