Chapter Twelve

Wave after wave of pleasure rose and clashed, turning Khushi's body into nothing but a mass of nerves. Her brain had turned into mush, no longer processing after both had their clothes deposited on the floor of the dressing area. The last thing it could remember was having their bodies flesh on flesh and being picked up to be taken to the bedroom. Now as Khushi gazed up at the ceiling and regained her breath, her brain barked at her for being so naive.

Khushi looked to her right. Arnav had gotten a phone call just as the two had come down from their high and had been busy in conversation, talking business. He was listening to the person speaking on the other side of the phone when all of a sudden her stomach grumbled. Arnav turned his attention to her and Khushi turned bright red.

"Looks like someone got worked up an appetite," Arnav smirked.

Khushi looked away and looked around for something to wear. Of course she knew that there was nothing, but she didn't want to face the embarrassment she had just put herself in. She heard Arnav chuckle and he went to the bathroom. Moments later he came out with a black T-shirt and gray sweatpants, and handed them to her. Khushi looked at the clothes in confusion and then at him, but Arnav was once again focused on his phone call. So without a word, she quickly put the items on, realizing that these were in fact Arnav's clothes. Once she had, she headed downstairs to get something to eat.

It had occurred to her then that she had never been in the kitchen before.

Going through the dining room, Khushi entered the kitchen. Like the rest of the house sans Arnav's room, it followed the theme of white. The cabinets were white with black knobs, the appliances of steel with black tops. The counters and the island were white with black counter tops, and the chairs around one side of the island were black with white cushions. However the walls were different, one wall being white and the rest with exposed brick walls. All together, the kitchen looked absolutely stunning.

"Do you need help with something Ma'am?"

Khushi turned to one of the workers who looked at her curiously. She seemed to be in her early forties, her hair beginning to whiten and the wrinkles beginning to appear on her face. But the woman still looked lovely in her petite form.

"Just a little hungry," Khushi said.

The woman smiled. "I'll make you chicken salad sandwich."

"Thank you..."

"Meghla."

"Thank you Meghla."

Meghla had Khushi sit down in one of the chairs while she prepared the sandwich. Khushi could have easily done it herself, as everything was already stored in Tupperware boxes, but Meghla would rather do the work.

"It's almost 1 AM; aren't you tired," Khushi asked.

"I was just finishing up some last minute things," Meghla explained. "But the quarters aren't far and there's always security if anything."

"Quarters?"

"Mm hmm. Raizada Saab had created a cottage for us workers to stay in so that we'd be close by and would have no issue in coming to work.

Khushi's eyebrows shot up. That was nice of him to do.

Meghla placed the sandwich in front of Khushi. "Is there anything else I can help you with Ma'am?"

"Please, call me Khushi, and no, thank you."

With a smile, Meghla nodded and wished her good night. When Meghla left, Khushi dug right into the sandwich and moaned in pleasure. Arnav truly had worked her into an appetite.

With her sandwich completely devoured, Khushi washed up her plate and put it away. She was heading upstairs to her room, when she saw Dhruv coming down the opposite staircase. She was grateful that the two staircases curved along the walls and never intersected. Dhruv was holding his forehead, Khushi positive he was suffering from a hangover. She hoped that he wouldn't notice her but unfortunately for her, he did.

"Well, who do we have here?"

Khushi paused at the top of the staircase and looked down at Dhruv, who was leaning his arm against the banister.

"Strutting about without my step-brother," he smirked.

Khushi looked away. She absolutely hated the man.

Dhruv looked her up and down for a moment. Khushi didn't like it at all and hugged her arms around her waist.

He tsked. "No... Bhai didn't get the girl I met."

Khushi looked at him with confusion.

"The girl I met was trained to be a whore. The girl I had met knew how to dance, how to sing, how to seduce - how to be confident. However my Bhabi here is, well, just a joke."

Khushi's eyes widened.

"No wonder you were so easily sold; you're worthless to the brothel anyways. They sold you away with a steal," and he turned away.

Anger struck within Khushi and her fists clenched. Worthless?!

"Oh," and he turned back to her. "Your friends at the brothel were right about you too."

Now that caught her attention.

"After I first saw you and didn't have you, I was furious I didn't get to drive my cock up that cunt of yours. Now I know it's a good thing it never happened. Driving it up Payal's ass, in Sheetal's mouth, or Seema's pussy - now that is pleasure. Only those three could ever be wanted and essential for pleasure, not you."

Dhruv walked away and Khushi seethed. She had clenched her fists so tightly, her nails were digging into her palms. With her jaw clenched, she walked back to her room. She thought of all the training she had, as well as how the other girls would tease her. She would believe that she was never good enough, which was why Ichcha Baai wouldn't let her perform. But Rita Baai always told the truth and told her she was the most talented and most beautiful out of all of them.

Yet Malkeen sold me away. 

Khushi paused and leaned back against the wall. Across from her was small table with a vase, with some flowers in it. A mirror stood above it and Khushi looked at her reflection.

Who am I? Or rather who have I become? After Malkeen took me in, she raised me to be strong, to be confident, not with just my looks and skills of seduction, but in myself as well. ...and yet I do everything but.

My first night, I performed strong and proud. Yet when it came to the most important part, I chickened out and got lucky Dhruv Saab never got to touch me. And after Raizada Saab bought me, I've been nothing but weak.

Khushi stared at herself for a moment. She brought her right hand up and touched her cheek, the mirror reflecting her actions.

I am beautiful. I am strong. I am better than what Payal, Seema, and Sheetal say. In most of our teachings, I always came first, even in the last exercise we did together. 

Rita Baai was right, they were jealous of me. That's why they always teased me of my skills and not being able to perform. Well look at me now! I have gotten out of that brothel and am married to the most powerful man in our land. Not that power has ever meant anything to me....

Khushi thought of Arnav, from the moment they first met and up until earlier in the evening.

The man is confusing. He can be scary, yet so.. so... caring - somewhat, in his own manner.

Images of their fornication flashed in her mind and her body heated.

He has been pleasuring me repeatedly. And after all my teachings, all my lessons... I have done none of those deeds.

Khushi looked at herself in the mirror once more. She felt something grow within her and she stood tall.

Whether I like it or not, I am bound to Rai- Arnav. He bought me for a large sum of money, he would never let me go so easily. And the way he treats Dhruv.... He may be using me to get back at his step-brother for whatever it is, and truth be told, I don't mind. That Dhruv is so... so... disgusting! They both may be bad but Dhruv is worse!

Dhruv's words from her first night echoed in her ears. She quickly covered them and shook the memory out, only to be replaced with her first night with Arnav; how he had told her information she didn't know or hadn't heard about herself for the longest of time, how they had gotten intimate in the den. Comparing the two Raizada's, Arnav was much better.

Especially in the way he made her body feel.

A shiver ran up her spine and she gasped. He truly made her feel immense pleasure, something her toys nor the other girls could ever do to her.

With a deep breath, Khushi sighed and headed back to her room. She found Arnav standing by the window, typing away on his BlackBerry. He finished with whatever he was typing and turned to put it down, when he saw Khushi standing in the doorway.

Arnav looked from side to side. "Well what are you just standing there for?"

Khushi ignored his sarcasm and watched him as he put the phone down on the nightstand. But Khushi's eyes didn't stay on there for long and traveled to his firm behind. It occurred to Khushi that Arnav had been naked this entire time, not once bothering to put on clothes as he spoke business on the phone.

Then again, it wasn't like the person could see him, it wasn't a video chat.

Arnav turned around and looked at her. Khushi simply looked at him and he continued to look at her. However Khushi was the one to first break away, her eyes traveling down to his hard length.

"See something you like," Arnav smirked.

Khushi looked up at him and stepped towards him. Arnav noticed something different about her, but it wasn't anything physical. Khushi approached him, remembering her lessons and her desire to prove to herself that Payal, Seema, and Sheetal were wrong about her.

Malkeen is going to regret losing her best asset.

She stood before him and Arnav looked at her. He watched her as her eyes wandered from his eyes to his lips. Khushi reached up and caressed his cheek, feeling his stubble beneath her hand. She reached up on her tippy toes and watching him carefully, she kissed him when he didn't seem to mind. Arnav responded to her kiss and Khushi moaned, her hands making their way to his chest.

Arnav placed his hands on her waist, bringing her closer. He was curious as to why all of a sudden her behavior had changed but he didn't mind it at all. He did get her from a brothel after all; if she didn't have the skills, it would be quite the disappointment, mostly for her teacher.

Khushi trailed her hand down along his body and took hold of his length. Arnav hissed and Khushi nipped at his lower lip. He looked at her and she gazed up at him. Her hand lazily moved along his length and all Khushi could think of was putting him in her mouth.

She trailed soft kisses on his neck and moved down along his chest. She moved lower and lower, getting on her knees, her lips hovering by his length. With her eyes on his, she stuck her tongue out and traced it up his length. Arnav groaned in his throat, his eyes shutting momentarily. When he looked at her again, Khushi licked his length again and placed at a kiss at the head. He gripped her hair and Khushi moaned at the slight tug.

"My naughty wifey," Arnav smirked.

Khushi moaned and placed a soft kiss on his length. Arnav took on a sharp breath and Khushi heard it.

"Do you want it in your mouth? Do you want to taste my cock?"

Khushi nodded. "I want your cock in my mouth, I want to taste you."

"Really?"

Khushi nodded once more. "I want to pleasure my husband."

Whether or not Arnav was surprised by her statement, Khushi couldn't tell. So instead, she took his length in her mouth and pleasured him.

Khushi moaned around his length as he thrust deep within her mouth. Moment after moment, his thrusts deepened and Khushi took him like a natural. Her hands worked him as well and she wanted nothing more than for him to come in her mouth.

When Arnav gripped onto her hair tightly and thrust faster, she knew he was there. She gripped onto his ass and let him thrust into her mouth as hard as he wanted. With a slight touch of her teeth on his flesh, Arnav came undone and grunted, releasing his load into Khushi's mouth. Khushi moaned and took it all, gulping it down as his cum gushed into her mouth. His load was so much, Khushi had to pull back, and it dripped down her chin and got on her breasts. She rubbed it over them, massaging her beasts with both hands.

Regaining his strength, Arnav pulled her up and his lips crashed down onto her. Khushi moaned and held his face in her hands.

"Fuck me," Khushi panted. "I want your big and thick cock in my pussy, please."

Instantly her back met the bed and without a word, Arnav thrust into her. Khushi's back arched and she squeezed her breast with her left hand as her right arm hooked around Arnav's neck.

"My, my, wifey, you're such a slut," Arnav smirked, thrusting into her lazily.

"Arnav," she groaned, needing more.

"My whore, my slut, my wife," he growled as he slowly increased the pace.

Khushi moaned and arched her back, needing more. "Fuck me Arnav!"

"Oh wifey, I will, but I want you to beg."

"Please," she gasped.

Arnav pulled back and stilled.

"Please," she begged.

Arnav slammed into her and Khushi moaned, needing more.

"Please!"

He pulled back once more and stilled.

"Fuck! Please fuck me with your thick, long cock, husband, I need it."

"Do you now," and he pushed back in.

"Oh fuck, yes," she cried out in ecstasy.

Arnav hovered over her and gazed into her eyes. Khushi looked into his, cupping his face in her hands.

"Fuck me, please," Khushi begged, her tone breathy.

Arnav pulled back and this time, he didn't pause. He continuously thrust into her and Khushi cried out in pleasure. His mouth latched onto her nipple as he teased and sucked it.

"I'm gonna cum," Khushi cried.

Arnav deepened his thrusts and Khushi cried out. He moved her hands out, pinning them down with his own. Khushi tried to free herself, but it was hard to do under his strong grip and relentless pounding.

"Your pussy is so fucking tight," Arnav groaned appreciatively. "I love coming in your cunt."

"I want your cum in my pussy," Khushi cried.

Arnav's grip tightened and he pounded into her. Khushi met him thrust for thrust and in seconds, both came apart together, crying out in ecstasy. Arnav landed onto her chest with a thud and with his grip loose, Khushi freed her hands and wrapped her arms around him.

Several seconds passed before Arnav picked himself up and looked into her eyes. Khushi gazed up at him and caressed his cheek. She reached up and kissed him then placed a kiss on his forehead.

Yes buying her was wrong, she is a human, not an animal. But he had graced her with something priceless - freedom. It may have been limited, but not even freedom was free. No matter, Khushi had to admit that she was grateful that Arnav had gotten her out of there, in his bizarre methods or not.

However even though she wasn't in that place anymore, she would remembering her teachings, especially the most important of all - always be confident.

Chapter Eleven

What Khushi was going to do, she had absolutely no idea. With Arnav gone to work and not knowing this palace whatsoever, she didn't know what she could do nor where she could go. It is definitely safe to say that Khushi felt stuck, and as hard as she tried not to feel this way, she wanted Arnav to come home and rid her of her loneliness.

It made her go to war with herself.

Enough Khushi! Stop thinking of him in such a way! How can you easily forget what he did? How he bought you from Ichcha Baai for ten million dollars?! How he has treated you?!

But while a part of her thought that way, the other thought opposite.

Is it so wrong to feel this way for him? Yes, his act of buying me is very wrong, but we're free now! Free from the brothel! We can live the life we've always wanted to live! And besides his sarcasm, he isn't so bad. And what about our values we've always believed in when a man came into our life?

Both sides continued to fight and Khushi felt her head spin. Not even an afternoon nap helped her to relax. Though she was upset with herself for thinking about him the first moment she woke up.

A knock at the door snapped Khushi from her troubles. "Yes," she called out.

"It's almost 8 o'clock, Madam," one of the security members said from the other side of the door. "Sir will be home soon and will be upset to know you skipped lunch."

Khushi scowled at the door. She highly doubted he would be just upset at her for skipping a meal.

She turned to the nightstand and picked up her new iPhone. There were text messages from Husband and after seeing all of the texts she had missed, she couldn't stop herself from gulping with nervousness.

Fuck!

"I'll be down soon," Khushi called out and quickly got up to wash up.

Once she did, Khushi headed down. It was when she reached downstairs that she remembered Dhruv. She felt her body go numb and her blood run cold.

Is he here?

Khushi glanced around but all she saw were the security, standing with their hands behind their backs, looking forward. But her curiosity wasn't enough to make her worries go away. For a moment, she wondered if she should ask the security team if Dhruv was home.

Should I do that?

"Well, well, well..."

Khushi's eyes widened as her body stiffened.

"Good evening to you, Bhabi."

Khushi turned around and saw Dhruv walk down the staircase at a casual pace, smirking. Her skin crawled at the sight of him and when he got closer, she stepped away.

"So... not married for even 24 hours, and my brother abandons you for work - not surprising."

He stopped at the bottom of the staircase and Khushi paused as well.

"But no matter, Bhabi. That's what your devar is for," he grinned, licking his lower lip.

Khushi felt nothing but disgust, feeling her skin crawl even more.

Dhruv stepped forward and Khushi stepped back, glancing at the security guard who was standing to her right. Just as she was beginning to wonder if the man would help her, she stepped back into something hard and nearly stumbled over. However it wasn't something she had bumped into, but rather someone, and his hands reached out and grasped her by her waist before she could even fall forward.

Khushi gasped as Arnav wrapped his arm around her waist, his other hand moving her hair off of her shoulder to expose her neck. "I've missed you wifey," and he placed a kiss where her neck met her shoulder.

Khushi shuddered and gripped onto his hand with both of hers. Once again, she cursed at her body.

Arnav looked up. "Oh. Dhruv. Didn't see you there," he said, but there wasn't even a tiny hint of embarrassment in his voice, whatsoever.

Khushi glanced at Dhruv and saw him scowling. Dhruv muttered under his breath and walked past them and out of the doors.

Arnav watched his stepbrother walk out, his head tilted and a frown on his face. "Was it something I said?"

He simply shrugged and tugged on Khushi's waist, spinning her around. Khushi's arms flailed up and she gripped onto Arnav's shoulder's, her wide eyes looking into his.

"You, wife, have been bad."

Khushi looked at him in confusion.

"Not once did you respond to my texts. Very bad," he tsked.

"I-I was sleeping."

"Sleeping? Instead of waiting for me, all pretty and eager to be fucked fantastically?"

Khushi gulped and tried hard to avoid the thud in her core.

"You didn't even prepare dinner for me," he pouted.

"I-"

"But never mind that. Have you eaten?"

"Um-"

Aman came forward and Khushi looked at the man, while Arnav continued to look Khushi. "Sir, it has been brought to my attention that Madam has not eaten."

"Is that so."

Khushi looked up at Arnav. His eyes gave nothing away, but Khushi was sure that she was about to face what she had thought earlier.

And he said he was only going to be upset.

Arnav released his hold on her and gripped her by her wrist. "Come on," and he tugged her to the dining room. Khushi tried to free herself, able to go to the dining room just fine on her own, but Arnav's grip was just too tight. He plopped her down onto a chair and sat down at his seat at the head of the table. In an instant, the workers from the kitchen came and placed food on the table. Just as they were all about to go back to the kitchen, Arnav cleared his throat, causing them all to freeze.

"Would someone care to explain why my wife hasn't eaten all day."

The workers glanced at each other and Khushi could see the worry on their faces.

"Well?"

Khushi could hear the edge in his voice and knew that it would only be a matter of moments before the man would erupt. "I was tired and slept all afternoon, it's my fault."

The workers looked at her wide eyed while Arnav filled up his plate.

"Is that so."

It wasn't a question, but Khushi nodded anyways.

With a wave of his hand, Arnav dismissed the workers, and they all scurried back into the kitchen.

"Missing meals is something I do not like. Never do that again."

Khushi found this quite odd and confusing. "Why? What if I'm not hungry."

His steely eyes met hers and Khushi instantly looked down. When he finally removed his eyes off of her, Khushi filled up her plate with food. The two ate in silence and Khushi couldn't decide if that was good or bad. When both finished, they washed up as the workers took everything away.

Khushi followed behind Arnav quietly, when she noticed something from the corner of her eyes. She looked out the window and saw Dhruv outside, holding a bottle in the air. His mouth was moving, but she couldn't hear what he was saying. Security members surrounded him, and he seemed as if he could tip over at any time.

"How sad."

Khushi gasped in surprise, turning to see Arnav next to her, watching his stepbrother.

"Not to mention pathetic," and he walked away.

Khushi glanced from Arnav to Dhruv and back, then followed after Arnav.

"Don't you care about your own brother?"

"He is not my own brother, but my stepbrother."

"Do you two not get along?"

"Well of course we do, we're best friends!"

Khushi resisted the urge to roll her eyes at his sarcasm. "Why do you hate him so much?"

Arnav halted and so did Khushi. He turned to her and when she saw the look in his eyes, Khushi gulped.

"What did I say earlier?"

Khushi simply gulped and looked down. 

"That's what I thought."

He turned back around and brought out his phone. Arnav clicked and tapped away on it, and Khushi just looked at him. The man was just too confusing and she really didn't understand him, whatsoever. Mentally tired out by it, Khushi headed upstairs to their room. She wanted to get comfortable and get ready for bed, so she made her way to the wardrobes. Khushi had shifted her stuff from her chest and into the wardrobes before having taken her nap. It wasn't just because she was bored with nothing to do, but because Arnav had texted her to do so earlier.

When she had moved her items, Khushi was surprised to discover other clothing hanging for her, from casual home clothes, to a variety of clothes to wear outside for different events, and of course, lingerie. Khushi was shocked that these were all ready for her, considering the fact that they had only taken her measurements the day before.

I guess when you're Arnav Singh Raizada, anything is possible.

But then it made Khushi wonder about Dhruv.

Dhruv Saab has no power, but Raizada Saab....

Khushi cleared her head and looked at her clothes. She could wear a simple pastel green selwar kameez to bed, but her eyes kept wandering to the lingerie. A majority of the girls at the brothel owned them and would sleep in them, as well as flaunt them around and tease the other girls in both ways, if you get what I mean.

Khushi's eyes wandered to a cute, baby pink teddy, which she was very tempted to wear.

But then....

"Wear it."

Khushi gasped and turned around, finding Arnav leaning against the doorway. He had taken off his suit jacket and tie, and the top two buttons of his shirt had been undone. The sight of him made her core thud and she stopped herself from biting her lip.

Arnav stepped forward, his hands in his pockets. His eyes never dropped from her, and Khushi looked away. When he stood in front of her, he said nothing. Khushi glanced from side to side, waiting for him to say something, but he didn't. She peeked up at him through her eyelashes, and the instant her eyes met his, Arnav's lips came crashing down onto hers.

Khushi moaned as her back met the wardrobe, Arnav cupping the back of her head with his hand. Her lips moved along with his, hard as she tried to resist him, but failing miserably. She felt him tug on her clothes and allowed him to remove them, until not a string remained on her flesh. He pulled back first and looked at her from top to bottom.

"Fuck yes," he growled, and his lips collided with hers once more.

Khushi knew then that she was a goner.

Chapter Ten

Although she didn't want to, Khushi headed downstairs. She tugged on the shirt she wore, but it wasn't going any lower. Fortunately for her, it was enough to cover her lower region, and the fabric was thick enough from anyone seeing anything.

When she got downstairs, she looked around to see if any of the security were around. She didn't spot any and wondered if they were late or were supposed to come later. She headed into the dining room and found her husband sitting at the head of the large table.

Why have a large table if only one person is going to sit there? I mean two- er, three.

The thought of Dhruv came to mind and she gulped. She remembered the last time she had seen him and remembered his words. It made her shudder with disgust and she shut her eyes.

"Well are you just going to stand there all day?"

Khushi gasped and looked up at Arnav. He looked at her as if she were the most strangest thing on the planet. Brushing aside her thoughts, Khushi joined him. Their food was already at the table and the sight of food brought her joy. Her stomach grumbled with joy as she devoured her breakfast. They both ate in peace and quiet and Khushi couldn't understand if that was a good thing or a bad thing. The man absolutely confuses her and she just can't seem to understand him. 

Arnav's phone began to ring and he took the call. "Arnav Singh Raizada...good. For the time being, monitor the grounds until further notice," and he hung up. 

Khushi looked at him in confusion but he ignored her. 

"Are you done," he asked instead. 

Khushi nodded; she was absolutely full. 

"Good. Go wait for me in the living room."

"Why?"

His eyes met hers and Khushi looked down with a gulp. She hated the fact that his heated glare would affect her so quickly. Without a word, she got up and left, tugging on the shirt, hoping to stretch it lower but to no avail.

Khushi entered the living room and looked around. Almost everything was white, the grand chandelier glistening bright. She browsed around, looking at the contents of the room. Truly, in comparison to Arnav's, or rather their room, this room was much brighter. 

That room has to be the darkest out of all of them... but why? Is it supposed to reflect his dark heart?

Khushi noticed a photograph on one of the shelves and picked it up. It didn't take long before she realized that she was looking at a much younger version of the man who was her husband. But unlike the man she knew, this boy had a genuine smile on his face. 

He looks so adorable. Will I ever see that smile?

Suddenly the picture frame was taken out of her hand and Khushi turned to see Arnav. He placed the picture back and looked at her. "Don't be so touchy. At least, not to anything else but me."

Khushi held her hands behind her back. "It's just caught my eyes."

"Really," he questioned, cocking his eyebrow. His humor was evident. "And why is that?"

"Just... your smile," she confessed, and again for some reason, Khushi was blushing. 

The humor on Arnav's face began to fade. "My smile?"

Khushi nodded. "Yes."

Arnav said nothing and kept his eyes on her, causing her to look down. 

"It's cute," she muttered, though shocked by her own words. 

What is wrong with me?

For a moment, Arnav said nothing, his heated gaze on her. Khushi glanced up at him through her eyelashes but she couldn't figure out what was going on in that mind of his. Before she could push forward on it, Arnav suddenly picked her up and placed her on a side table and pushed her back, forcing her to lay onto the sofa next to it. In that blur of a moment, Arnav undid his pants and buried himself within her, Khushi gasping out in surprise as her back arched. Her legs automatically wrapped around his waist and she swung her hips. 

After all she still desperately needed her fill. 

Khushi slightly picked herself up and watched as Arnav slowly pulled back and thrust into her. A moan escaped from her lips and she tossed her head back. When Arnav pulled back again, he thrust back in and increased his pace. Cries and moans escaped from Khushi's lips as she buried her hand in his hair, feeling the intensity through her body. She met him thrust for thrust, her other hand reaching out to his as he gripped her waist tightly. 

"Arnav," she moaned. 

Khushi felt her body ready to fall off the edge and in a matter of seconds, both came together, Khushi's back arching as she cried out in ecstasy. Arnav grunted and gripped her waist tightly, pouring himself within her. Both calmed and returned from their high, and Khushi gazed up at him. Hard as she tried, she simply could not remove her gaze from him. 

What are you doing to me?

"What the fuck?!"

Khushi gasped and both turned to the sound of the voice. Standing by the entry was Dhruv Singh Raizada himself, and Khushi could feel her blood run cold. Dhruv's eyes went from his brother to Khushi, confused and shocked. 

The corner of Arnav's lips crooked up. "Dhruv!"

Khushi looked at Arnav. There was something in Arnav's voice that told her that even though he sounded happy to see him, he really wasn't and was faking it, or rather, mocking it. 

Without looking at Khushi, Arnav pulled her up and pulled her against him, Khushi's arms automatically wrapping around him, her body being covered by his. 

"You're home early," Arnav continued, his arms wrapped around Khushi. "What brings you home so quick?"

Dhruv looked from his brother to Khushi and he recognized her instantly. 

"Oh yeah, have you met my wife? Khushi, this is Dhruv, my stepbrother, your devar. Dhruv, this is Khushi, my wife, your bhabi."

Khushi gulped and her mind echoed with Dhruv's words. She absentmindedly gripped onto Arnav even tighter and it wasn't missed by him. 

Dhruv opened his mouth but couldn't find the right words to say. He mumbled and muttered at first, before he finally got his wording. "You married the whore I wanted from the brothel?"

Khushi looked from Dhruv to Arnav. 

"Yeah. So," Arnav shrugged. 

Dhruv scoffed and looked away, rolling his eyes. "You just have to do that, don't you? Always take everything first, everything I want."

Khushi looked back at Dhruv. 

Dhruv looked back at his brother. "Seriously Bhai, you just take everything away from me. First my credit cards, and now this... this prostitute."

"Careful. She's your bhabi now," Arnav pointed like Dhruv was toddler, learning a lesson. 

Dhruv huffed and scowled. "You just always have to be the better one, don't you! I'm fucking nothing and you're fucking everything!"

"Wrong. I'm everything but you're a pathetic excuse who drinks and fucks."

Dhruv's eyes widened and he clenched his jaw. "Bhai-!"

"Yeah yeah, go to the brothel and fuck it out of your system," he waved. 

Dhruv seethed and huffed. He glanced down and noticed the state of the two. "Oh great! Another thing you had to beat me to! You just had to be the one to fuck her first!"

Khushi glanced down between her and Arnav and realized that he was still buried within her. She gasped and tried to pull away, but Arnav didn't let her move. Normally it wasn't something she'd feel shy about, considering her lessons, but this was different. 

"Of course. And she is just amazing." Arnav smirked.

He lifted Khushi's face up and kissed her, surprising Khushi. Dhruv huffed and growled, and without another word, he stormed out. 

"Won't you at least have breakfast," Arnav called out, turning back, but Dhruv was gone.

With a shrug, Arnav pulled out of Khushi and she looked at him in confusion. 

"Go upstairs and change," he said, fixing himself up. 

But Khushi just looked at him. Arnav glared at her and pulled her up by her arm, surprising her. 

"By now I hope you know that I really don't like to repeat myself. Go."

He released her with a slight shove and Khushi went forward. She looked back at him but he was focused on his phone. Walking with confusion, Khushi headed to the main hall and towards the stairs. She noticed some of the security men were now inside, which must have meant that Arnav had told them to come in now.

But why now? Why not before?

Khushi headed upstairs and found Aman at the top.

"Good morning, Madam. Sir had your items shifted to your bedroom," he said when she reached him.

Khushi nodded and sped towards Arnav's- er, their bedroom, feeling uncomfortable, tugging on the shirt.

If Ichcha Baai saw me now, she would've been so mad!

Memories of the evening she had been sold to Arnav, flashed in her mind. She remembered how easily Ichcha had sold her for all of that money. In that moment, anger filled up within her, tears of anger streaming down her cheek without her even realizing.

How could you do this to me?!

Khushi entered the bedroom and found one of the security in the room. Beside him was her chest, which meant that he must have been the one to bring her chest here.

"Good morning, Madam. All of your belongings have been brought here."

With a nod, the man left, shutting the door behind him. Once he was gone, Khushi wiped her tears and went to the chest. However, before she could even open it, the sound of beeping echoed in the room. Her head instantly turned to the sound and she was surprised to see a phone on the bed. Curious, she went to it and looked at the screen. She saw that there was a text from Husband, saying be a good trophy wife while I go to work. It didn't take long for her to understand that Husband was Arnav, but she didn't understand why he had left her a phone, that too an expensive one.

Khushi had always dreamed of having her own phone, just like the other girls. However because she wasn't working like the others, she had no money. So they would always make fun of her on that as well, just like they did with other things. Now that she had one, now that she had an iPhone of her own, she felt more confused than happy.

Nothing, and absolutely nothing, made any sense whatsoever.

Chapter Nine

Khushi awoke as the sun lit up the room. She slowly got up and the sound of her clinking jewelry helped her to come out of her sleepy state. When she noted the jewelry she was still wearing, she looked to her right and found Arnav asleep beside her.

He... I can't believe he's my husband.

Memories of the night before flashed in her mind and she found herself blushing. She didn't understand why, as this wasn't their first night together, but still, it felt different.

Stop it Khushi, you know the type of man he is. Besides, he bought you, don't you forget that.

Yet, as she looked down at Arnav, she couldn't help herself. She placed her hand through his hair and slowly ran her fingers through it.

No matter what the situation is, he's still my husband. And my values on that will never change.

Ever since she was young, Khushi always believed that marriage was something sacred and no matter what circumstances she would marry in, or who she married, she would still do her right of a good wife.

But something about Arnav struck out to her. Yes he could be, well, an asshole at moments, but there was something about him - something she still didn't quite understand yet - which struck out to her. She only wished she knew what it was.

"Mm, who knew marriage would be one of my best decisions yet."

Khushi gasped and paused and Arnav blinked his eyes open.

"Oh don't stop on my account, wifey. Continue," and he shut his eyes.

At first Khushi didn't move, but when he glared at her, she resumed her motions.

"Ah... now that's more like it."

No one said anything for a moment, Khushi doing as she was told.

"Tell me wife, are you sore?"

Khushi's lips parted as she blushed. Again. She just couldn't understand why she was behaving this way. "Slightly," she confessed.

How could she not be after the countless fucks and orgasms she had?

Arnav blinked up at her. "Well that just won't do. There's so much more to do."

Khushi looked at him in confusion as he slowly got up. He splayed his hand over her stomach, forcing Khushi to lie flat on her back. He moved between her legs and split them apart, causing Khushi to gasp and sway her hips.

"Oh, someone's greedy," Arnav smirked.

Khushi brought her finger to her mouth.

"Kinky.... Well you're lucky that I am famished after the night we had. Now, for breakfast."

Arnav latched his mouth to her pussy and Khushi moaned, tossing her head back. Arnav smirked against her and watched as she moaned and tossed her head in pleasure. He groaned against her and she ground her hips against his face. Her fingers went entangling into his hair as she continued to sway her hips against him. Arnav growled and gripped her waist tightly, stilling her. Khushi moaned, ready for her release. She tried hard to pry away, but Arnav wasn't letting her go. In a matter of seconds, Khushi cried out and tried to pry away from Arnav's expert tongue as waves of pleasure rode through her, but Arnav kept his grip on her, sucking and licking away her juices.

Her body landed with a thud and she breathed heavily. Arnav lifted himself up and Khushi saw how his face had gone red due to her movements.

"A very good morning to you too, wifey," and he got up.

Khushi still left like mush, and sighed. She couldn't believe the mass amount of pleasure he could make her feel. Placing her hand through her hair, she took a deep breath and got up. She reached out to her dupatta, which laid half on the bed and half on the floor at the corner. She placed it around her and slowly stood up. Immediately she felt the soreness between her legs and tried to resist it.

She walked over to the vanity and looked at herself. Something about her was different, and it wasn't because of the numerous hickeys all over her body. She couldn't exactly figure out what it was, but she felt it, and that wasn't the soreness.

Pushing it out of mind, Khushi began to remove her jewelry. Each time she removed a piece, she remembered the night before - how they clinked with each move, with each thrust. Blush instantly filled her cheeks and she paused.

What's happening to me?

"Need help?"

Khushi gasped and looked up at the mirror. She saw Arnav looking at her and approach her. Khushi looked down as he got closer to her, fidgeting with her hands. She felt him before he reached her and had to force back her moan when he touched her waist. She felt him unhook the waistlet and placed it on the vanity. He brought her hair to the front and Khushi looked up through the mirror as Arnav removed her necklaces. When he unclasped it, Khushi placed them down on the vanity.

"Thank you," Khushi nearly whispered.

Arnav looked at her through the mirror and Khushi held her breath. She couldn't remove her eyes off of him, even though she mentally urged herself to do so.

Why can't I stop looking at him?

"Come," he said, and walked away.

Khushi turned around and silently followed behind him. She followed him into the bathroom and she couldn't help but to admire the black marble that covered the room. Almost everything was black marble, from the counters to the floor. Arnav led her to the tub, which was already filled. He turned to her and removed her dupatta, and just as he was about to drop it to the floor, Khushi stopped him.

"Please, don't drop it."

Arnav looked to the side. "Why not?"

"Because it's special."

Arnav's eyebrows met in the middle. "Special?"

"It's a part of my bridal wear, of course it's special," she said softly.

"Huh." Arnav looked down at the dupatta in his hands and then at her. "If you say so," he shrugged, and walked over to large wardrobes that went within the wall. He folded it up and placed it inside one before going back to her.

He held his hand out to her and Khushi glanced at it before taking it. She went up the two short steps before getting into the tub. The water was slightly a bit too warm, but she knew this would help dull the ache between her thighs. Arnav joined in behind her and once he sat down, Khushi did as well, placing herself between his legs. She wasn't sure of she should lean back against him, but when he tugged her back against him, her confusion ended.

Neither spoke a word and just soaked in the water. Eventually Arnav began to run a sponge over her, cleaning her up. Khushi sighed, unable to hold it back.

"Wifey likes being treated to luxury."

Khushi rested her head on his shoulder and looked up at him.

"Tell me, has anyone ever taken care of you like this?"

Khushi nodded.

"Who?"

"Rita Baai."

Arnav's hand paused and he looked at her. "Who?"

Khushi forced herself from smiling at Arnav's funny expression. "Rita Baai. She would take care of me and the others."

"Others?"

"Payal, Seema, and Sheetal."

Arnav resumed his work. "So she would bathe you?"

"Now and then. We have this really big tub, almost half the size of a pool, where we would all bathe together."

"Uh huh... and she would take care of all of you?"

"When we were younger, always. But as we got older, she would just do it for old times sake or so that we wouldn't fool around when we were needed."

"Fool around?"

"Sometimes the girls can get... well...."

Arnav understood immediately and a devilish smirk grew on his face. "Oh? Did my wifey get naughty with the other girls," he teased.

Khushi blushed and she cursed herself for doing so. "Yes," she whispered.

"Oh really?"

Arnav put the sponge aside and Khushi felt his hand move to her body and travel down. "What would you do?"

"W-well... they w-would mostly do it to me."

"Is that so?"

Khushi nodded hesitantly as his hand slowly went lower. "They would do it to tease me because I wasn't allowed to service like they could."

"And what would they do to you, wife?"

"Uh, well... Seema would mess with me the most. Even Payal and Sheetal would do it. "

"Like?"

Khushi felt his fingers slide between her folds and she pursed her lips. "They would do this."

"Do what?"

Khushi began to breathe heavily. "Play with my pussy."

Arnav used his other hand to move her hair aside and exposed her neck to him. "And?"

"T-they would come at me together. So they would hold my hands back, kiss me, and penetrate me."

"Like this," and he entered a finger.

Khushi moaned and arched her back. Arnav held her feet down with his and took hold of her arms in front of her. Khushi leaned back on his shoulder and looked up at him as he continued to fuck her with his finger. Arnav looked down at her and saw the lust in her eyes. He kissed her and Khushi moaned, wanting to reach up and kiss him. Unfortunately his grip was tight, and she couldn't.

Taking out his finger, Arnav replaced it with two and curved them to hit that sweet spot. Khushi cried out and tried to pull back, but Arnav caught hold of her lower lip, biting it. Khushi moaned and swayed her hips, ready for her release. In a matter of moments, Khushi came, crying out. Arnav removed his fingers and wrapped his arms around her, kissing and nibbling her neck as she sagged against him, trying to catch her breath.

"From now on, you'll be getting a lot better than what you got back there."

Khushi blinked up at him. That was a promise that she knew he was going to keep.

*~*

Wrapped in a towel, Khushi looked at Arnav, who had had a towel wrapped around his waist. She had let him take care of her, and truth be told, she liked it. She didn't understand why he was doing it, but she liked it.

He's so confusing.

Arnav moved over to the wardrobes and while he rummaged through it, Khushi simply stood there, enjoying the fluffy white carpet at her feet; it was very soft. Arnav pulled out his own clothes and turned to her with a shirt in hand.

"Wear this," and he handed it to her.

Khushi looked at it in confusion. "But my clothes-"

His steely eye met hers and she looked down. Without a word, Khushi dropped her towel to the floor and wore Arnav's shirt.

"You can dry your hair over there," he pointed.

Khushi nodded and walked over to the basin. There was a blow dryer and she picked it up and used it. A few minutes later, her hair was good and dry. Arnav came behind her and she looked at him through the mirror. He was working on his hair and Khushi simply watched him. For a moment, she desired to touch his hair.

"Haven't had enough?"

Khushi snapped out of her thoughts and looked away, blushing.

"How could you," he smirked, and he moved behind her, pressing himself against her.

Khushi gasped at the feeling of his erection.

"You haven't had your fill yet."

She really hadn't, and her biting her lip didn't help to deny it.

"Unfortunately for you, you're going to have to wait."

Arnav pulled away and left. Khushi caught her breath and forced herself to calm her crazy heart.

Stop it Khushi, just stop! Just because he's your husband, doesn't forgive him for what he's done!

Khushi straightened and went into the bedroom. She saw Arnav placing his cuff links on and he looked at her through the mirror.

"Time for breakfast."

Khushi eyebrows automatically met at the middle. "I have no underwear on."

"So?"

"So? I can't go down like this."

Arnav looked at her and Khushi tried hard not to look down, but eventually did.

Dammit!

"You're right. You can't go down like that."

Now that caught her attention. She looked at him in confusion and watched as he picked up her mangalsutra from the vanity and turn to her. Khushi's hand went to her neck and she remembered that he had taken it off before they took their bath.

He simply curled his finger at her and Khushi came forward. With a twirl of his finger, Khushi turned and faced her back to him. Arnav swept her hair aside, placing it over her shoulder, and placed the mangalsutra on. She felt his fingers sweep over her skin, and it made her body hum.

She truly needed her fill, and fast!

Once he hooked it on, Khushi turned to him. She watched him turn back to the vanity and pick up a little pot, which he revealed to contain vermilion. Without a word, he took a pinch of it and placed it over her parting. Khushi gasped as her eyes widened; she never expected this from him.

"Now you can," he said, his voice low.

Khushi looked into his eyes. She tried to figure out what was going through his mind, but she couldn't. "Why are you doing his," she whispered, the words escaping before she could process the thought.

She expected him to reply with a sly comment or to yell at her for repeating the same question, but instead, he walked out of the room. Khushi just stared at the door, even after Arnav was gone.

It seems that no matter what, I just can't seem to understand him for the slightest bit. 

Chapter Fifty Six

Arnav and Khushi didn't waste another moment and quickly got ready. Aryan had contacted the police and according to the police commissioner, there were only three orphanages outside the west of the town. Shyam and Anjali decided to help by going to one of them, as well as Aryan. Shalini wanted to help too, but they told her to stay behind and keep watch of Ahana. Of course she fussed, but they eventually convinced her to stay behind.

The police commissioner arrived to Raizada mansion and offered to escort Arnav and Khushi to one of the orphanages. After contacting the orphanages, one of them seemed most likely to be the one holding their son, so the commissioner would take them there. The others would check out the other two just in case their lead didn't work.

Both Arnav and Khushi got into the car and followed behind the commissioner's car. They sped through town, everyone moving out of the way at the sound of the sirens. It took quite some time before they reached the west end of the town. Following the commissioner down the road, Khushi prayed that they would find their son, safe and sound.

Eventually they arrived to the orphanage and the owner came out, looking at them with confusion.

The commissioner went up to the owner and began asking her questions. Arnav and Khushi had just stepped out of the car, when Shyam called Arnav on his phone. He let them know that the orphanage he and Anjali had gone to did not received a baby boy at that time. It somewhat satisfied the couple, marking one of three locations off, but neither would be in peace until they had their son in their arms.

"...um, yes, we did," the couple overheard the owner say. "As a matter of fact, we had two boys and a girl arrive to the orphanage four months ago."

Khushi dashed forward to the woman, Arnav following behind her. "You have my son? Please tell me that you do, did anyone adopt him?"

"None of the three were adopted-"

"Take me to him please! Return him to me!"

"Mrs. Raizada, please, relax," the commissioner said. "We'll find him and return him to you, just relax."

"I would be more than happy to help," the owner said. "No children deserves to be abandoned, nor stolen from their parents. Please, come with me."

The woman led them into the orphanage. It was actually just a simple, cute, little house, off the road. When Khushi got inside, she could see how child-friendly the home was. She could hear a few of the children singing and laughing, but it did nothing to calm her heart.

"Most of these children were abandoned on my doorstep. Some were found by others and brought here," the owner explained.

"How were the three infants from four months ago discovered," the commissioner asked.

"The girl was found by the gas station four miles up ahead. One of the boys was dropped off at my door, and the other was... left by a dumpster," she said sadly.

Khushi gasped and Arnav placed his hands on her shoulder.

"It's a good thing I was in town that day; I found him myself."

The owner led them through her home and led the into a nursery. Many cribs surrounded the yellow room, reminding Arnav and Khushi of their son's room, back home. After loosing him, neither had courage to go into that room.

The Raizada's and the commissioner were taken over to three cribs.

"I always have them placed in the order they're found," she explained.

Arnav and Khushi stepped closer and looked down at three cribs, one containing a girl, the others containing a boy each. But Khushi's eyes could only focus on the brown-eyed, dark-haired little boy, with chubby cheeks and furrowed brows, fussing in the middle. The owner spoke, but Khushi paid no attention. She reached down and picked the child up. The others looked at her as Khushi gazed down at the baby. The fussy baby had calmed down and was looking up at Khushi with wide eyes, waving its little arms.

Khushi's breath caught in her throat. "A-Arnav...."

Arnav held her and looked at the child over her shoulder. For a moment, it felt as if he was looking at a miniature version of himself and at that moment, he felt his heart pick up from the pit it had dug itself in to. "Khushi...."

Khushi broke into tears and held the little baby to her. She kissed him all over his tiny little face, and the baby groaned. "Oh my sweet little baby boy, my Aarav, we've found you!"

Even Arnav broke into tears and wrapped his arms around the two, placing his hand over the child's head. "We really have found him."

The couple looked at each other and back down at their baby boy. In the few months that had passed, their son had changed so much, but it was very clear who had gone towards.

"I told you I'd have a tiny version of you," Khushi smiled.

Arnav nodded. "You were right Khushi." He placed a kiss on her head. "You were right."

The commissioner cleared his throat and the couple looked up at him. "I understand that this is a very big and emotional moment for you, but we still must do things according to procedure. We have to run DNA tests between you and the infants to see if he really is your son."

"Of course he's my son," Khushi exclaimed, holding the baby closer to her. "He's my son and I think I would know better as to who my son is, not some stupid test!"

"I understand Mrs. Raizada, but we must follow procedure."

"To hell with your procedure! Arnav-!"

"Khushi, he has a point," Arnav tried to explain. "It's important that we do this."

"But he looks just like you-!"

"I know baby, I know. But we still have to do it, hmm? It won't take long."

"But we've missed almost five months with him."

"And we'll have him for the rest of our lives," he smiled softly.

Khushi opened her mouth to argue, but she understood that what needed to be done, needed to be done. So she agreed, but only if she could hold onto him, until they reached the hospital and could do the blood work. The commissioner agreed and notified the hospital in town. While he did that, Aryan alerted the couple that one boy was brought to the orphanage at the time, but he was much too old to be their child. Arnav let them know that they had found their son, and everyone headed to the hospital. Khushi refused to let go of the infant, cooing away at him. Arnav couldn't help but to smile and was very happy to have his son back and to see his wife smiling with all her heart.

Both infants had their blood drawn, as well as Arnav and Khushi. As it was a police matter, the lab got right down to work to determine which of the two infants were their son. The couple was told it would take about a day or two, and Khushi refused to leave her son for another moment. But Arnav reasoned with her and managed to get her to leave the hospital with him. The following day, Khushi went to the hospital, first thing in the morning. More of their situation was told to the commissioner and the commissioner had gotten a warrant to look through the hospital security footage. Arnav and Khushi wanted to know what had happened to their son moments after he was born the commissioner agreed to let them see it.

In the hospital's security room, the security footage of that day was played. Everyone watched as their son Aarav was placed in his little cot, sleeping. They forwarded through the footage and saw that deep into the night, a nurse allowed Shashi and Garima into the nursery. Shashi stood out and watched, as Garima and the nurse entered the room, the nurse holding a baby. Garima picked up Aarav, and the nurse placed down the other infant, then they quickly escaped the room. Again they fast forwarded through the tape and saw another nurse come rushing into the room, checking on the child who had been placed in Aarav's spot. Khushi turned away, not wanting to see this, and the commissioner stopped the footage. He ordered for the nurse to be found and to find the doctor who had delivered Khushi's son.

It was later found out that not only the nurse, but the doctor had been paid by someone anonymously, to help get rid of Khushi's child. Neither saw the person's face and had agreed only because of the large sum of money they would be receiving. Khushi was absolutely disgusted and both the doctor and the nurse were arrested.

"How could they do such a thing? Did it not hurt their conscience at all," Khushi asked as her husband held her, watching the nurse and doctor get handcuffed and taken away.

"People like them have no conscience."

Arnav ran his hands over Khushi, for if he didn't, they'd go flying to the nurse's and doctor's faces. Of course he'd never hit a woman, but after what they had done, they couldn't be considered human, not at all in Arnav's point of view.

A few more hours passed when finally, the results arrived. Khushi was right; she didn't need a test to prove that this infant was her son, she knew because she was his mother.

All Khushi wanted now was to take her baby home. Arnav felt the same, and neither waited a moment to get back to the house. When they arrived, they found the whole family there, even Shyam and Anjali, all waiting at the door to greet the new member of the family. Once they were given their blessings, the new family of three entered the house and everyone crowded around them.

"Oh my gosh, he's so cute," Shalini gushed.

"He has gone absolutely towards his father," Aryan grinned.

"No way, there's a bit of Bhabi too," Akash said.

"I agree," NK said. "He's gonna be a mama's boy," he grinned.

"And be like you? Absolutely not," Arnav frowned.

Khushi giggled and nuzzle her little boy's cheek, and the infant fussed, waving it's little hands.

"Aww," Lavanya gushed.

"He is just adorable," Seema exclaimed.

"What's his name," Payal asked.

Khushi looked up at Arnav with a smile then looked down at their son. "Aarav."

Arnav placed one hand over his son's head, placing the other on his wife's shoulder. "Aarav Singh Raizada."

Everyone gushed around them and Shyam came forward. "I wanna carry him."

"Me too," Anjali chirped.

Everyone began to fuss about holding Aarav, and Khushi clasped onto him. Shalini had noticed her gesture and had understood it immediately.

"I think it's best to let Khushi hold onto him for now," she smiled softly. 

Everyone looked at Shalini, but she kept her eyes on Khushi. She stepped forward, holding Ahana in her arms. "She hasn't had him for almost five months," she said, placing a hand on Khushi's cheek. "You guys understand, don't you?"

Everyone nodded, understanding the overwhelming feelings Khushi must be feeling.

"Good. And Khushi?"

"Yes Ammu?"

"After everything that has happened, understand that Aarav is here, and he'll never be away from you. No one can ever take him from you, never again."

A lump grew in Khushi's throat and she forced back her tears. Unable to reply, she simply nodded and Arnav led her upstairs. They both went into their room and Khushi set down their son on their bed. Khushi laid down besides Aarav and watched him coo and throw his hands in the air.

"He's beautiful," Khushi whispered, tears pooling in her eyes.

Arnav couldn't agree any more. He was about to join the two, when he remembered something. He headed straight to the closet and rummaged through it, and Khushi slightly picked herself up to see what he was up to. Arnav returned with a book in hand and a yellow rattle. He laid down on the other side of Aarav and shook the rattle over him. The little one smiled and cooed, reaching out to it. His parents gushed at the sight and were even more surprised when the infant managed to roll himself over.

"He can do that," Khushi gasped.

"I had no clue."

Arnav handed his son the rattle, and his tiny little fists gripped it instantly. He shook it and placed it in his mouth, Khushi smiling at the sight. Arnav looked at the book he had brought, which turned out to be an infant's development book. He looked up four month old infants, and read through it quickly.

"Apparently he can," Arnav said. "He should be making sounds, which he does, and can arch his back when he's on his tummy."

"Well he most definitely is doing that," Khushi smiled softly, running her hand over his back. Suddenly her smile dropped and her hand paused. "And so much more."

Arnav looked up at her.

"He's learned so much and has changed so much... and we missed it all."

Arnav reached out and placed his hand over Khushi's, and her eyes met his. "Not all of it, just a few."

"We'll never get them back."

"We won't but... we can't dwell on that forever. After all..." Arnav reached out and placed his hand over Khushi's abdomen. "There's someone else coming who we can experience that with."

"But we'll never be able to with Aarav."

"And there's nothing we can do about it."

Khushi looked down at their little boy, who was drooling all over the rattle. Arnav caressed her cheek and had her look at him. 

"Don't, baby."

"But-"

"Don't. What's done is done Khushi, and you can't do anything to change it."

"But-"

"All we have now is today, and the future with him. What's in the past is in the past."

"How can you say that so easily," Khushi whispered, a tear escaping from her eyes.

"Because it's the truth Khushi."

Khushi tried to gulp back the lump in her throat.

"And you need to accept it."

Khushi looked down at Aarav and wrapped her arms around him. She laid the infant on his side and brought him closer to her, placing a kiss atop of his head. The little one continued to shake the rattle and drooled over it. Arnav smiled and ran his finger over the little one's cheek.

"I never want to let him go," Khushi whispered.

"Me neither," Arnav whispered back. "But he will need his space, eventually."

"Can he stay with us for now? Sleep in here?"

Arnav looked at his wife and caressed her cheek. "If that's what you want."

Khushi nodded and Arnav smiled softly. He reached over and kissed her forehead, before laying back down beside their son and cooing away at him. Khushi watched and smiled at the two.

Everything was just right.