Aapke Pyaar Mein [IPKKND AU] - to be continued

Chapter 5

The hall of Shantivan was filled with people dressed in fancy couture, bitching and dissing about each other. Even if they were here for the Muh Dikhai of the newest Raizada bahu but most of the guests were only present here to hear the hottest gossip of town. And such gatherings were just the right venue for the information exchange.

Sumitra - Anjali, when is the newly-wedded coming down? We're all desperately waiting to see her.

Anjali - Just a little while, Aunty. I'll get Payalji. Then you can see her for as long you want.

Her cheerful response met with a tight-lipped laughter, the way posh people do unlike the middle class who laugh their heart out at the first chance they get.

Anjali excused herself and walked towards the main door which had a person enter she'd been waiting for eagerly.

"Khushjjiiii!"

The voice of an overly enthusiastic guy had her realize she wasn't the only person approaching her. Khushi greeted both with a smile and joined her hands politely.

Anjali - Khushiji, we consider you a family member but you behave like a guest with us.

Khushi - Like a guest? But..what do you mean?

Even though her anger was fake, Khushi's late arrival spoiled their plan of pairing up Chote with her as Arnav had left for office.

Anjali - I called you in the morning asking you to come. But you're arriving at this time with guests. And that too alone. Why didn't anyone else come?

Khushi - It's nothing like that Anjaliji. Buaji was having headache and Amma needed to take Babuji to the doctor. And I'm sorry I'm late but actually I was caught up into work.

NK's face had a satisfying grin plastered over the face as he watched them share a quick hug. He'd been waiting for Khushi to turn up ever since Di announced her arrival at the breakfast table. And now having her here, he'll finally ask her out on a date at the first opportunity he'll get.

Khushi - How are you Nanheji?

NK - Erm, am fine Khushji. How are you? Everything's well at home?

Khushi responded in positive with a nod of her head before walking in alongside Anjali to meet rest of the family. She felt so overwhelmed at the love and kinship they showered onto her. And yet her eyes and heart craved for someone else.

Anjali - Khushji, who are you looking for?

Khushi jerked at being caught and thinned her lips. She forcefully formed her lips to a curve before replying.

Khushi - Woh, Jiji! Is she getting ready?

Anjali - Ji. Come, I'll take you up to her.

*

Arnav parked inside his garage. Usually he would leave it outside in the driveway but due to the ceremony taking place inside the house, Shantivan was crowded with vehicles today.

He still couldn't comprehend what he was doing here. In the morning when Di informed everyone she invited the Guptas, his mind wanted nothing else but avoid seeing her which is why he went to office. After being ignored and stood by her, the last thing he wanted was see her. Because he knew, one look into her eyes and he'll melt. Falling in love has its price. Even though he hated to admit it but that girl has become his weakness. It's getting hard to keep the mask of ASR in front of her.

But as it is the case since the girl entered his life, he was unable to concentrate on work. And so it happened, he ended up back at home. His heart demanding he go in asap while his mind ordered him to get back into the car and head to office. It was a tough decision.