Reawakening

Part 9 - The Sham

The Raizada clan returned home by late afternoon. Though surprised his nagging wife had not returned, the snake however, thought it best to eat well and relax while the whole house was left to him, well almost. Little did he know the lamb was being fed before the sacrifice..

Mami hugged Anjali when she came in. Her heart bled to see the girl in pain. How painful it was to even hear, when her husband had recounted all that he knew. These children had to go through this again. History being repeated, similar situation for her sister-in-law. But she knew Anjali was not weak like her mum, she would rise from the ashes... a little bit of time..

Lavanya was pacing up and down the guest room while Nani was trying to calm her down. She complained "It is already tea time Naniji, I had asked them be here early so that I could update them. Now there is not much time for anything. I also told her that there is a surprise and she is not to come through the main door and call me as soon as she reaches.."

A distressed Arnav walked in to get an update when he saw both his Nani and Lavanya tensed.

"What's the matter.. all ok?" he asked concerned.. but no sooner had he asked, he turned around and whispered "Khushi..."

Oblivious to Nani and Lavanya looking at him puzzled, he was transported to his own world. He could feel the light soothing breeze and knew she was here.. He closed his eyes for a moment, when Lavanya's phone rang..

"Its her.." saying so, but still looking at ASR with her mouth open in wonder, she went out answering the call. She had to make sure they were escorted without being noticed.. a mammoth task considering Buaji ... ahem....

In spite of the extreme anxiety, sorrow pain he was in, he wanted to catch a glimpse of her.. Khushi, who had devoured his thoughts day and night. Khushi, who had taken away his life when he came to know she had gone to Lucknow forever.. Just one glimpse.. he stood grounded unable to move. When Lavanya ushered both the guests in, both were puzzled. Khushi felt his gaze upon her as soon as she entered, stopped for a moment, looked deep into his eyes and proceeded when Buaji pulled her in. Though she was not aware of the reason, she felt sadness engulf her. She knew he was in pain.

Nani spoke very briefly, "Madhumati ji there is something very serious that you should know.. it is our family issue, but you are all involved in this"

Buaji was more puzzled, nudging Khushi, "Hey Sanka devi, what have you done now? Hai re nand kishore"

Khushi pouted and opened her mouth wide to clarify, when Nani ji shushed her, "No no, she has not done anything at all.."

Khushi smiled as if to say, "See I told you I am not involved.."

Small smile rose on Arnav looking the cute exchange taking place and was surprised and angry at the same time, how he could smile when such a serious matter was being discussed. Seeing her after a long time, his senses were running wild. Corner of his hear, he was happy to see her again, and he was relieved she was safe..

Lavanya was very observant through out the process, she was pretty much sure what would happen between the two, and she was half prepared, though she still did not like to accept. Arnav hurried Nani off leaving Lavanya to brief Khushi and Buaji about the issue, who could only tell them to watch what was to take place...

After a good long nap, the snake came about ready for evening tea, surprised his wife was still absent. Mami, once again did the honours of feeding. Anjali walked in escorted by Akash, sat blank faced. Arnav and Akash sat next to her each holding her hand. Making sure the family was all there to support Anjali, Mama addressed the snake, while Lavanya got Khushi and Buaji to watch the show from behind Shyam..