Head over Heels ☑️

Chapter 21 - Khushi

🎶 Chuttamalle - Devara

Arnav-ji held out his hand as Khushi wobbled with one foot hovering in the air. Brows furrowed in concentration, she accepted his help and hopped onto the speedboat, crashing into his arms just as he'd predicted.

"Jeez, at least wait until we reach the villa," teased Arnav-ji in an undertone as she blushed and straightened. She held onto his hand tightly, refusing to let go as the speedboat rocked against the dock.

The staff greeted her warmly in English, their words carrying a slight foreign accent. She responded as best as she could while trying not to look like Mami-ji swaying under the influence of bhang.

Loose strands of hair clung to her damp face; it wasn't summer yet, but the humidity wrapped around her like never before. The water surrounding them shimmered in a vivid, electric blue, a sight so mesmerizing it captivated her senses entirely.

Arnav-ji led her to the back of the speedboat and waited for her to slide into the corner seat, positioning her closer to the water. She did as instructed, though she couldn't stop squirming at the nearness of the waves.

The speedboat roared to life, and she sucked in a sharp breath as they rode the relentless waves, cutting through the rich blue expanse surrounding them. Khushi wished she had four hands to help her hold onto her seat. Only when Arnav-ji wrapped his arm around her waist and held her tight did she finally relax and gaze out into the sea.

The winds were soothing, whipping her hair back and dispelling the heat. She turned to her husband, excitement shining in her eyes. Arnav-ji's lip curled as he took off his sunglasses and offered them to her.

"Much better," she shouted to make herself heard over the engine roar. She remembered that Di had specifically packed a new pair of shades in her bag, and she made a mental note to keep them close in the future. Her thoughts were interrupted, however, when her eyes fell upon the Verma couple.

They were seated a few rows ahead, directly facing them. Rima-ji seemed to be fussing over the wind ruffling her elaborate curls, while Raghu-ji looked around flustered in the various bags he was carrying. He produced a large scarf, which she snatched from him wordlessly, winding it around her head; her disappointment in his lack of promptness was unmistakable.

Khushi felt a twinge of pity for the man as he slumped in his seat. She ran a hand subconsciously against Arnav-ji's forearm that was still wrapped securely around her waist. He stared down at her, raising his eyebrow curiously.

She shook her head and planted a quick kiss on his jawline, her fingers lingering on his cheek. Arnav-ji smirked, leaning in to press a soft kiss to her temple as his fingers teasingly tickled her side. She giggled, squirming to get away, but her laughter abruptly stopped when her gaze caught Rima-ji watching them.

A wistful glint flickered in Rima-ji's eyes before she realized she had been caught staring. She turned away quickly, but the fleeting expression lingered in Khushi's mind. It made her wonder what it must feel like to be in a marriage that left someone looking so... weary and withdrawn.

"We'll be arriving soon," said Aranv-ji, and sure enough, Khushi saw the harbor drawing closer and she mentally prepared herself to be jostled again. She envied Rima-ji's steady steps as they were the first to be escorted out of the boat.

Khushi gasped when Arnav-ji took matters into his own hands. He held her waist and hoisted her up onto the harbor. Khushi blushed as the welcome party clapped, calling out warm greetings.

"Welcome Mr. and Mrs. Raizada to the Four Seasons Resort," said a lady clad in a white Safari suit. "My name is Frida and I will be your guide and escort for the remainder of your trip."