Head over Heels

Chapter 10 - Khushi

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To returning readers, there is an alternate version of Chapter 9's ending available in Transgressions - Denial, my other work, where I'll be posting one-shots. Please hop on over for some intense blend of Arshi. For 18+ Mature Audience Only.

Link: https://www.wattpad.com/1479215031

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🎶Yeh rishta kya kehlata hai - Meenaxi, Tale of 3 Cities

"Hai re SANKA DEVI!"

Bua-ji's bellows rivaled the thunderstorms raging Lakshmi Nagar. Khushi groaned, tossing on the bed. The pleasant smell of rain soaked flora drifted through the window, she breathed in snuggling under the covers.

The bedroom door was thrown open as Bua-ji marched in, adding to the din surrounding the house. Khushi opened one eye blurrily, she marveled at how her aunt looked like an exploding bullfrog in her anger.

"What did I tell you last night? The clothes are all wet thanks to you! You had one job, to bring in the laundry - but no, her royal sanki-ness has nothing better to do than sleep."

Bua-ji ripped the blanket off and smacked Khushi's bottom.

"Oww," said Khushi sitting up, rubbing her hip to ease the sting.

"Your sister is handling your chores in Shantivan, while you waste your time here making jalebis. Tell me, what's your excuse for not going today?"

The mention of Shantivan sobered Khushi real quick. She mentioned the rain and pointed unnecessarily toward the open window, earning a painful pinch on her cheek.

"Dekho Khushi, this is a sensitive period in your sister's life - all our actions collectively affect her impending nuptials. With your recent behavior, jalebis no less, I'm concerned. Tell me, what have you done?"

"I messed up on the dance floor," said Khushi, inventing wildly. "The dance mater-ni is freaky, I'm just biding my time until the Sangeeth rehearsals are over."

Bua-ji narrowed her eyes dangerously. "If there is one thing I can give you credit for - it is dancing, so you better come out with the truth before I-"

"Offo, it's okay, Ji-ji," said Amma, strolling in. "Khushi-bitiya has been working tirelessly for a while now, as I've been told by Devyani-ji. I think she deserves a break."

"Yes, but a whole week?" said Bua-ji, exasperated. "I don't know, you handle your daughter."

Bua-ji swung her long braid over her shoulder and walked out muttering Nand-Kishor under her breath.

Khushi flashed her mother a grateful grimace. Amma ruffled Khushi's hair and straightened the bedsheets in her arms.

"Arnav-bitwa was here this morning," said Amma casually. Khushi's heart stopped.

"The Haldi samagri is finally delivered from the groom's side. I was beginning to worry at the delay, oh well." Amma placed the folded bed sheets in the wardrobe.

"That Arnav-bitwa...," said her mother thoughtfully, closing the wardrobe shut. "He has such a stern demeanor...and yet I can't fault him for his politeness. He's such a contrast to his brother."

"Hm-hmm," muttered Khushi, fidgeting with her kameez.

It took a minute for Khushi to realize that Amma was staring at her with a contemplative gaze. It made her uncomfortable to be placed under scrutiny, especially since her mother was far more perceptive than her aunt.