Foundation of Marriage

Part 4 - Rehearsals

One afternoon, Arnav received an unknown parcel, which had slipped past security because it was hidden inside a lunch box parcel that arrived from his home. Aman was furious with the head of security, shouting about the lapse, "How could you let an unknown parcel get in? This is unacceptable!" Khushi's heart sank when she heard the commotion. She rushed to Arnav's cabin, but before she could reach him, Arnav had already grabbed the parcel. Fearing the worst, she snatched it from him and threw it out of the window. There was a sudden, violent explosion mid-air. The shock wave sent Khushi flying back, and she crashed against the wall, collapsing in a heap. Arnav, his face pale with shock, ran to Khushi's side and cradled her in his arms. He was frantically sprinkling water on her face, his hands were trembling but she was still unconscious. The building was in chaos as the employees scrambled to safety, but thankfully, only a few sustained minor injuries due to the shock waves. Doctors were quickly called in to check everyone. One of the doctors examined Khushi, tended to her minor cut on her forehead, and administered her some medicine. As the doctor worked, Arnav stayed by Khushi's side, holding her close on his cabin's office sofa. Khushi had woken up but was still feeling dizzy. Arnav's voice was filled with concern as he said,

Arnav: "Khushi, don't try to move. Just stay still."

Aman entered the room, his expression was serious. Looking at Aman, Khushi realized her position, she was literally in Arnav's lap, what would Aman think. She struggled to move out but Arnav held her tight and gave her his glaring eyes.

Aman: "Arnav, we believe this could be the work of a business rival. Someone must have planted the parcel."

Arnav (frowned): "But how did they manage to get it past security?"

Aman: "The box was in your tiffin parcel from RM. It wasn't checked thoroughly because it was a part of your regular food delivery from your house."

They decided to consider it a one-off incident, noting that the rival had likely swapped the parcel before it was properly vetted. Arnav was minorly shaken but stayed focused on Khushi, taking her home himself. When they arrived, he explained to Buaji,

Arnav: "Khushi had an accident at the office. She fell down while.."

Khushi (interjecting): "Buaji, it's nothing serious. Just clumsy me falling and hitting my head. Don't worry."

Buaji: "Haye rey nand kishore, when will you give this walking talking mess some brains! There is so much work at home, do you realise we have a wedding to prepare for?"

Khushi: "Yes buaji, I am sorry"

Buaji: "Go and rest now!"

Arnav: "Buaji, let me help Khushi"

Arnav helped her inside her room and made her sit on her bed. Post that he began his questioning,

Arnav: "Why didn't you tell buaji the truth of what happened?"

Khushi: "It's okay. I didn't want to worry everyone, especially with the wedding coming up."

Arnav nodded, "I understand. Rest well, Khushi. Thank you again for saving me!"

As Arnav left, Khushi felt a mix of relief and exhaustion. She knew Arnav's actions showed his concern, but she also wanted to keep the focus on her sister's wedding. The incident, though was frightening but she was content to have played her part in keeping Arnav safe. She reasoned that now they were relatives, so she was only looking out for him.

Two days later, the Raizada mansion buzzed with excitement. Madhubala, the most sought-after wedding choreographer, had arrived to help with the dance performances for the wedding. Rehearsals were in full swing. Payal and Akash were practicing their duet, Anjali and Shyam had their own performance, and even Manorama and Manohar were set to take the stage. Naani and Buaji had another performance planned as well. The only person without a dance partner was Khushi. Just then, Arnav walked in, returning from the office. Madhubala spotted him immediately and, with a bright smile, called out,