Chapter Sixty One

The sound of a steady beep echoed in the room, pulling Khushi away from her sleep. She slowly opened her eyes and was struck by light, forcing her to shut them immediately. Slowly, she blinked her eyes open and became aware of the white hospital room.

I'm alive?

Khushi glanced around, when she noticed Arnav sleeping on the couch on the other side of the room.

He didn't do it.

As if he had heard her thoughts, Arnav's eyes shot open. He blinked a few times and groaned, before opening them and meeting Khushi's eyes. "Khushi."

Khushi instantly looked away, feeling hot tears stream down her cheeks. Arnav got up and went to her side, placing his hand in her hair. "Baby-"

"How could you," Khushi cried. "How could you? After I asked you to-"

Khushi broke into tears, paining Arnav.

"Khushi-"

Khushi faced him. "How could you be so selfish," she whispered. "How could you steal one's life away?"

"I-"

"You're so selfish. I thought the man I loved would do the right thing.... You are not the man I fell in love with and you most definitely do not truly love me," and she turned away again, crying.

Just then, the door opened, Dr. Fields entered.

"I'm glad you're awake Khushi," she smiled softly. "My colleague, well... she still can't believe it."

Khushi looked at the doctor in confusion as she checked her charts then turned to a monitor.

"Now then, let's check on the little one."

Now Khushi was truly confused. "What?"

"The baby of course. Although both of you are miraculously okay..."

Khushi glanced at Arnav, who was looking at Dr, Fields, and looked back at the doctor.

"...we still want to keep you under our watch, especially the baby. Now let's take a good look."

Khushi just looked at Dr. Fields in confusion as the good doctor prepared for the ultrasound. She registered the cold feel of the jelly, but her eyes stayed fixed on her. Dr. Fields checked the monitor, locating the baby, while Arnav watched.

"And there's the little one."

Khushi looked at the screen and gasped. Her child was truly there.

"Judging by the size, your baby is at least 8 weeks." She looked back at Khushi. "You're still in the first trimester and even if luck was by your side during this critical event, you must take good care of yourself. With a husband and family like yours, I'm sure you'll be fine, but still, as your doctor, I must repeat myself."

"Don't worry Dr. Fields," Arnav said, his arms crossed. "We'll take extra good care of my kidney bean."

"Almost the size of a grape," Dr. Fields smiled. "I'll leave you two to it then. Khushi, get a lot of rest, okay? I'll have letter sent home with a date and time of your next appointment."

"Thank you Dr. Fields."

"Not a problem." She made her way to Arnav and placed her hand on his shoulder. "I may be watching out for the little one and its mother, but you are the true protector."

Khushi looked at them in confusion.

"If it weren't for you faith and strong belief, who knows, we probably wouldn't have ever seen such a miracle. But the love you have for your wife and your unborn child shows how much even modern science can't do." She turned to Khushi. "You're really lucky to have a man such as Arnav who loves you oh so very much."

A lump grew in Khushi's throat as tears once again threatened to fall. The doctor left, leaving the two in the room. Khushi still couldn't believe it - her child was alive! They were both okay, and she had accused Arnav so wrongly.

"Arnav-"

Arnav grabbed his jacket from the couch and went to the door. "I'm getting a bite to eat."

"Arnav-" but he left the room.

Shalini instantly came walking in, looking confused as she watched her son's retreating back before entering the room. "Khushi dear, how are you feeling?"

"Like an absolute bitch," she cried.

"Oh, sweetie, what happened?"

Khushi told Shalini of what had happened while tears poured down her cheeks. Shalini sat down beside her, taking her hand in hers.

"I was so awful to him!"

"Oh sweetheart, you didn't know. It was just your motherly instincts reacting-"

"That doesn't excuse me of accusing him of not truly loving me."

Shalini sighed and placed her hand in Khushi's hair. "He loves you a lot. He loves you both very much. So much, he prayed and begged to DM."

Khushi's eyes widened. "He did what?"

Shalini told him of what had happened earlier and Khushi was shocked. It made her feel even guiltier of what she had said to him, making her cry even more.

"He'll never forgive me," Khushi whispered.

"Of course he'll forgive you, he can't live without you!"

Khushi sniffled wiping away her tears.

"Trust me, I know my son. He may be stubborn like his father-"

Khushi frowned at her.

"Okay," she chuckled. "He may be stubborn like both his father and I, but he'll come around."

"Are you sure," she whispered.

"Positive. Now, get some rest. I had Aryan go out and get you some food and not this crap they serve here in the hospital. Don't worry, we've asked the doctors and they've given the go. Now quickly get better, there's a little man waiting for you, who happens to be driving his Akash Chacha and Payal Chachi crazy with his tears."

Khushi nodded and Shalini placed a kiss on her forehead. She left the room and Khushi stared up at the ceiling.

I am a horrible person.

*~*

When the doctors deemed it right, Khushi was sent home. She was so happy to see Aarav and the little guy was very happy to see his mother. Khushi stayed in bed all day, getting her rest. She wouldn't let Aarav out of her sight, keeping him with her. Shalini and Aryan took good care of her. Arnav did as well, but he was cool and distant.

A little more than a month passed and the young Raizada ladies decided to get together, all of them hanging out at NK's house.

"You're still pregnant," Payal questioned.

"You're still not," Seema huffed.

"Well we are trying."

"Well here's some advice - don't. I don't know how much longer I can tolerate being pregnant!"

"How far are you again," Khushi asked.

"Well after that pregnancy test came out full bust when we told you guys back during your anniversary, we tried again and became really pregnant. I have to admit, that was quite embarrassing. But thanks to this bump, I know for sure I'm really 9 months pregnant."

"Then it's only a matter of time," Khushi smiled. 

"How are you feeling," Payal asked her.

"We're doing okay," Khushi said, placing her hand over her stomach. "Now that I'm in my second trimester, I feel slightly better."

"Is Bhai still mad at you," Lavanya asked softly. 

Khushi looked down at her folded hands and nodded. 

"I'm sorry my brothers are such idiots."

"Don't be. It's my fault really."

Everyone reached out and held her hand. 

"I was so mean to him," Khushi whispered. "He should never forgive me."

"Don't say that," Seema said softly. 

"Bhai loves you," Payal cajoled. 

"Then why won't he talk to me unless necessary. Or look at me?"

None of the ladies said anything. 

"I don't know how to make it up to him," she whispered. 

"I'm sure he knows you love him and that you know he loves you with all of your heart," Payal said. 

"Doubt it," Khushi whispered. 

"Well... why not show him then," Seema said. 

Khushi looked at her in confusion. 

"Remember, men always best understand love and show love through sex. Get a little naughty with him."

"Gross," Lavanya said, mocking distaste. 

"You know, that just might work," Payal agreed. 

"You really think so," Khushi asked. 

"Absolutely," Payal and Seema said together. 

"I can't believe I'm saying this - gross! - but yes," Lavanya said. "And I just might have an idea how."

"Tell me," and Lavanya told Khushi of her plan. 

"Are you sure this will work?"

"Of course, just have some faith."

Khushi nodded and leaned back in her chair with a sigh. I really hope this does.

Chapter Sixty

When Khushi opened her eyes, light invaded her sight. She tried adjusting to the light as her hearing began to clear, the sound of static going away. She heard both Arnav and Aryan calling out her name and that was when she finally looked at them. Before she could say a word to Arnav, she was taken away from them, the two being prevented from joining her.

Seeing the lights and people around her, Khushi realized she was in the hospital. Barely anything registered afterwards, the doctors doing whatever they needed to. When things began to clear for her, she saw Arnav bent over her, running his hand through her hair.

"Arnav," she weakly whispered.

Tears escaped and flowed down Arnav's cheeks, and he placed a kiss on her forehead.

"Mr. Raizada?"

Both turned their attention to the doctor and Arnav placed another kiss on Khushi's forehead before joining the doctor. They stepped to the side and that made Khushi curious.

"I'm afraid the condition is quite critical," the doctor began. "I'm afraid it's either the mother or neither can survive, not both."

Both Arnav's and Khushi's eyes widened.

"We can try to save the child, but it won't do good for Mrs, Raizada and it may end her life. The situation is critical - you must decide what to do," and she left the room.

A sob escaped from Khushi's lips and Arnav quickly dashed to her side. He held her tightly in his arms as both cried.

"Khushi-"

"Save her."

Arnav pulled back and looked at her in shock. "What?"

"Save her, Arnav. Please, you have to save her."

"What-? No! No, I will not risk losing you Khushi-"

"You have to save her Arnav. She deserves her chance at life-"

"Not by losing you. Khushi she needs you, Aarav needs you, everyone needs you," he said, running his hand through her hair. "I need you."

Khushi shut her eyes, tears streaming down her cheeks.

"You can't leave me," he whispered.

Khushi opened her eyes and looked into his. Memories since the first day they had met flashed in her mind. For every moment, she was grateful for and she mentally thanked divine above for all of them.

"Save her Arnav," she whispered. "Or I'll never forgive you."

Arnav's eyes widened as his jaw slacked. "Khushi," he breathed.

"Save her so I can die in peace."

Arnav recoiled at her words, stepping back as he looked at her in horror. Khushi turned her face the other away as tears continued to pour down her cheeks. Arnav was stunned by her words, his mind no longer working. He found his legs walking him out of the room, his parents spotting him immediately.

"Chote? Chote how is she? How is the baby," Shalini cried.

But Arnav didn't answer and his legs continued to walk him away.

"Save her Arnav, or I'll never forgive you."

Arnav felt his heart constrict as he continued to walk down the hall.

"Save her so I can die in peace."

Arnav shut his eyes as his jaw and fists clenched. I can't let you go Khushi. I can't.

Arnav stopped and he opened his eyes to find himself among a few others, praying to DM. He was shocked that he had absentmindedly brought himself here - he, a man who had no faith.

"For years I didn't believe in you. Ammu would teach me that you were the answer to all prayers, and when I asked you for my mother's happiness, you did nothing but give her torture. You took her away from me and I stopped believing in you."

Behind Arnav stood Aryan and Shalini, both with tears in their eyes.

"You broke my faith, you broke my belief in you. Then many years later my wife managed to bring it back, bringing back my mother. I thought it was one of your miracles Ammu would always speak about, that Khushi was that miracle. For a long time I couldn't believe it, until it happened before my eyes. Khushi was my miracle from you and she started to help me in believing in you once more.

"Then why? Why after all she's done, after you brought her into my life, are you trying to take her away from me? What did she ever do that was wrong? All she ever wanted was love and a family, and you punish her," he yelled.

Shalini placed her hand over her mouth to stop a sob and Aryan held her.

"The one who deserves to be punished is simply locked up in a cell, breathing just fine! The one who did all the wrong deeds is doing absolutely just fine! Why?! Why is my Khushi being punished for nothing, why?! Why is my son being punished and losing his mother?! Why is my unborn child being punished when she hasn't even been able to take a single breath?! WHY?!!!"

Arnav's legs gave away beneath him and he fell to his knees. Shalini quickly ran over to him and cupped his face in her hands, but Arnav hid his face behind his hands as he cried.

"Chote please-"

"Why is she doing this to Khushi," he asked, looking at her. "What did Khushi ever do? She did nothing wrong! Why should she be punished? Why should Aarav be punished, my unborn child be punished? Why should I-?"

Arnav's eyes widened and Shalini looked at him with concern as she wiped his tears away.

"It's all my fault... isn't it," he whispered.

"Chote-"

"It's my fault. My lack of faith is what's killing my wife, what's killing my child, what's ridding my son of his mother."

"No Chote-"

"It is! It's my fault they're dying! I killed them-"

Shalini's hand made its way across Arnav's cheek, Arnav stunned by her action, even Aryan. This was the first time Shalini had ever struck Arnav. "Now you listen to me, and you listen to me very carefully, Arnav - you did not kill them. Both are alive and both Khushi and your baby will live, and Aarav will have his mother. You are not responsible for any of this, Divya is. Your disbelief did not kill anyone because you do believe, you do have faith. If you didn't have faith, why would you come here? Why would you come to DM? It's because deep down, you do believe."

Arnav simply looked at his mother.

"You and I will stay right here, even your father, and pray for their well being, for both. Khushi and my grandchild will come out of this just fine, I promise you that."

Aryan came forward and placed his hand on Arnav's shoulder. "And the one who deserves to get punished, will get what they deserve."

Arnav nodded and Shalini took his hand, giving it a squeeze.

"Mr. Raizada?"

The three Raizada's looked up at the doctor. Arnav wiped his tears away and stood up, making his way to the doctor.

"Have you decided?"

Arnav looked back at his parents, at DM, and then to the doctor. "Both will live."

"Mr. Raizada-"

"Both will live. I have absolute faith both will live."

"It's nice to hear that you believe as such, Mr. Raizada, however the condition-"

"Doesn't matter. Both will live."

The doctor nodded with a sigh and looked down. "We'll do our best. But in case something goes wrong-"

"Both. Will. Live."

The doctor nodded and walked away, heading back to Khushi to prepare with the team. Shalini came to Arnav's side and placed her hand on his shoulder.

"I know she won't forgive me for my decision, but I don't care. I need her more than anyone."

Arnav turned back to DM and put his hands together, shutting his eyes. Save them.

Chapter Fifty Nine

Far out in the outskirts of town, Arnav continued to tail the truck without suspicion, keeping enough distance. He followed it out to an old warehouse and watched from outside the gates. The driver came out and from within the warehouse came two other men. They exchanged a few words and then they all went to the back of the truck. They picked up Khushi's lifeless body, Arnav gripping onto his steering wheel tightly as they took her in.

Arnav glanced at his phone and quickly texted his father to let him know where he was before exiting the car. There was no one else around, the area absolutely quiet. Arnav found it quite odd as he quickly sneaked inside. He found the three men immediately, two of them carrying Khushi as the other one led them. When the men came to a stop, so did Arnav, hiding behind boxes and barrels.

"The task was completed successfully," he heard someone say.

Curious, Arnav peeked over and his eyes widened.

"Good," a very well dressed Divya replied.

Dai Ma! She's behind this?!

Arnav watched as the woman stepped back to the table behind her and picked up a pitcher of water. She poured herself a glass before moving to Khushi and pouring it all over her, who had been placed on the ground. Khushi woke with a start, the men keeping their hold on Khushi as she struggled. When Khushi finally looked up at Divya, her eyes widened.

"And so she awakes," Divya grinned.

"You," Khushi growled. "What do you want?!"

"What do I want? What do I want?" She began to laugh hysterically. "Oh I wanted plenty of things - the love of my life, a family, the whole sha-bang! But then who had to ruin it?"

Khushi huffed as she glared at her.

"First it was that stupid mother in-law-"

"Mother."

"Whatever, of yours, and then you. You just had to ruin it. All the time and effort spent, just wasted in a matter of moments by you! Aryan... he wouldn't even look at me, he couldn't even stand me... and it's all because of you!!!"

Khushi continued to glare at her.

Divya stepped forward and crouched down to be at eye level. "You tried to destroy me, so I did the same to you."

This time Khushi's eyes widened. "What do you mean?"

Divya scoffed with a smirk. "Please, do you really think your old-tradition, high-prided, idiotic parents could ever come up with an idea like that on their own?"

"What idea-?" Khushi's eyes widened as realization hit her. "It was you," she whispered.

"That's right," she smirked. "I had them steal your precious son."

Khushi gasped with horror. "How could you," she whispered.

"As easy as 1, 2, and 3, girl. It's interesting how quick they were to agree, simply by hearing the value of their prize. What's more interesting is their hate towards you," she chuckled. "I must say, I have never heard of such people who hate females so much! Especially your mother being a female, it's just too interesting. But oh how they believe in old superstitions, giving birth to a female first being their ultimate downfall."

Khushi's eyes widened. That's why they hate me?

"But I was stupid to put my faith in those two, after all that money I gave them," she growled. "They couldn't even do a simple task and kill the child!"

"What," Khushi shrieked, her eyes wide with horror. "How-?"

"Those fools! They thought they had done so well with replacing the babe with that dying one! They were too arrogant and were too prideful that they wasted time boasting among each other. So much time, they didn't even realized when that woman arrived.

"Like the idiots they are, they placed the child down by the dump and the woman found him." Divya turned to Khushi. "It seems that the luck you have was also bestowed onto your son."

Khushi glared at her with disgust.

"At first I was furious that they had failed, absolutely furious! But once I learned how shattered you were, I was absolutely ecstatic! Even if the job wasn't carried out properly, it was still a success. Until again, everything ruined.

"I had been vacationing with my pets, when word reached my ears that you had found your son. The second I found out, all I could see was blood, and so I came back. This time I would have my revenge, but this time I would go right to the source. And now here you are," she grinned.

Khushi said nothing and gulped.

"The only way to get my happiness now is by killing you. And after you, I will go after that stupid Shalini and finish what should have been completed long ago and kill her."

"You'll never succeed," Khushi said, shaking her head. "You never did and you never will!"

"Won't I? I have you here with me after all. And once I have your heart ripped out of your chest and in my hand, the same will be done to your precious mother. Oh, and did I mention that I will get that infant daughter of hers as well?"

Khushi's eyes widened with horror. "You wouldn't," and Divya broke out with a cackle.

"Honestly girl, have you not even learned a single thing about me. I will get rid of her and her precious Ahana. Aryan had always wanted a daughter, even when Shalini was pregnant with Chote. The fact that she's finally given him what he wanted, even at this age, makes my blood boil. I will get rid of that thing and its mother and make my way into Aryan's heart. I will be the one to heal it and give him a daughter myself."

"You're delusional," Khushi hissed.

"It's the perfect plan," she grinned with a shrug. "And now, to get rid of you."

Divya looked at the men and they handed her a gun. Khushi's eyes widened at the sight of it and she tried to free herself, but their grip was too tight on her.

Divya looked at the gun. "I know how much Chote wanted a girl. And I know that you're pregnant again."

Khushi's eyes widened and she wanted to put her hand to her stomach, but their grip on her arms were too tight.

"Whether its a boy or girl, obviously is unknown. But don't worry - once I'm back in that house and I'm his mother once more, I'll find him the perfect girl for him to make a family with, make him forget about your son, and ship him off to be killed."

Khushi couldn't believe a word she was hearing. "You heartless monster!"

"What," she said innocently. "It's only the right thing of his mother to do."

"You're no mother of mine!"

Divya froze and her eyes widened as Arnav came out from his hiding spot. "Chote," she breathed.

Khushi shut her eyes as tears poured down her cheeks, thanking divine above for Arnav finding her.

"I told you then; you have no right to call me that," Arnav said as he slowly stepped forward.

"But I'm your mother-"

"You are no mother of mine," he shouted and Divya recoiled.

"Chote-"

"Enough! Let Khushi go!"

"Absolutely not! After everything she has done-"

"The only person who has done anything is you. Let. Her. Go!"

Divya pointed her gun at Khushi. "Take one more step and I'll shoot."

Arnav paused as his eyes widened. "Divya-"

"It's Dai Ma! Do I still need to teach you your manners at this age?!"

"Put the gun down-"

"Not until I've gotten rid of her-"

"Dai Ma, put the gun down! If you really love me as you claim, then you'll let go of the woman I love!"

"Why did you have to love someone like her, Chote? This worthless, nothing, villager girl! For heaven's sake, her own parents don't want her and they share blood with her. She means nothing, she isn't essential to anyone!"

Tears made their way down Khushi's cheeks as Divya's words hurt her.

"That's because no one else can see what I see. She may not be important to anyone else, but she is important to me-"

"Nonsense!"

"Not at all! Khushi is a very special woman and she is the only woman I could ever love. Without her, I'm nothing."

Khushi picked her head up and looked over shoulder to look at Arnav, her tears continuing to pour.

"She is the most important person in my life. So what if her brainless parents don't want her - I want her! I will for all of my life. She is the most important person in my life, as well as the most essential person in my life."

Khushi pursed her lips to hold back her sob. Oh Arnav!

"And nothing will ever change that, no one could ever change that, not even you Divya."

Divya clenched her jaw. "It's Dai Ma," she yelled.

Divya removed the safety on the gun and aimed at Khushi. The second she did however, policemen poured in from every direction and pointed their guns at her and her men. Divya and the men's eyes widened with fear, the men holding Khushi quickly letting go and holding their hands up. From behind, Aryan and the commissioner joined Arnav.

"Divya Param Chaterjee," the commissioner began, "you are under arrest."

As soon as the words left his mouth, two officers from behind quickly caught Divya's hands, taking the gun from her hold. Hard as Divya tried, she couldn't free herself and was quickly handcuffed, some of the other officers cuffing her henchmen. Arnav quickly dashed forward to Khushi and Khushi threw her arms around him as she cried into his chest.

"How did you-?"

"I saw him kidnap you and followed the truck here," he said, helping her up.

Aryan and the commissioner came forward, Aryan hugging Khushi as she hugged him back.

Arnav turned to the commissioner. "I want her locked up for as long as possible, her whole life if possible." He took his phone out from his pocket. "While I hided, I recorded everything she said, her admitting to her crimes, her threats, all of it."

The commissioner nodded. "I'll need you to come down to the station with me."

Arnav nodded and turned to his father. "Can you take Khushi home for me?"

Aryan nodded. "Absolutely. And none of us will let her out of our sight."

Khushi pursed her lips, looking down. Divya's henchmen were being taken past them, all of them looking down at the ground. Behind them, Divya was being walked forward. She glared at Khushi's, muttering curses. She quickly glanced at the officers holding her and taking her chance, she forced her arms free and tackled Khushi. Khushi went falling backwards and tripped on the corner of a box, flipping around and falling face forward to the ground. The second she hit the ground, Khushi could hear nothing but static. She watched as Arnav came in front of her, his mouth wide open as he said something, but Khushi could hear none of it. Everyone crowded around her and she felt Arnav carry her into his arms before everything faded to black.

Chapter Fifty Eight

It was a lovely day, the sun shining brightly, gracing the town. On a beautiful day like this, Khushi thought it would only be perfect to take Aarav out to the front and soak in the sun.

"Did you put sunscreen on him? I swear Khushi if-"

"Oh would you relax Arnav," Khushi chuckled, holding her phone in front of her. "He's covered in sunscreen from head to toe."

But Arnav's frown did not go away. "Show me him."

Khushi rolled her eyes and tapped on her phone, switching to the other camera to show him Aarav. Aarav was propped up against a pillow, smashing a plush toy onto the blanket they were sitting on as he cooed.

"Did he tan," Arnav exclaimed.

"Oh for-! Arnav!" Khushi switched the camera back on her. "Will you relax? He needs some Vitamin C and maybe you could use some too."

"Oh? I bet you'd like me to."

Khushi visualized Arnav shirtless and stretching under the sun. "Yes," she whispered, biting her lip.

Arnav couldn't help his chuckle. "Naughty wife."

Khushi winked, causing Arnav to gasp.

"Oh, my wife is being brave. It seems like whenever you're pregnant, you get braver."

Khushi gaped at him. "I do not!"

"Do too."

"Do not!"

"Do too."

"Do-"

Khushi caught Aarav looking at her, drooling around the plush.

"I think our son is judging me."

Arnav let out a laugh. "Now that's my boy."

Khushi turned her attention back to the screen and stuck her tongue out. "Go back to work."

"Ah, but I can hardly focus. How's the little one?"

Khushi placed her hand over her stomach. "Still quite tiny and definitely not kicking any time soon."

"What do you think we'll have this time?"

"Um... I don't know. A part of me says boy, but it would be nice to have a girl."

"Let me talk to my little one."

Khushi chuckled as she lowered the phone to show her flat stomach.

"You better be a girl in there, I can't be wrong twice."

"Arnav," Khushi chuckled.

"Papa's pride is on the line, sweetie."

"Oh my gosh! Arnav," and she brought the phone back up. "Don't put the child to blame."

"I know, it's all my fault if she isn't a girl. Dammit swimmers," he muttered

Khushi could not hold back her laugh, Aarav looking at her again. At first he drooled around the toy, but then he broke out into a smile and smashed his toy on the blanket as he cooed. Khushi pointed the camera at him and Arnav took a screenshot on his phone to forever cherish this moment.

"My little man," Arnav sighed.

"Hmm," was all Khushi could say, smiling softly.

"Well I better get back to work if I want to rush home."

"You always rush home," Khushi pointed out.

"Can't help it. I love you Khushi."

"I love you too," she smiled.

"Give Aarav a kiss for me."

"Will do," and they ended their video call.

Khushi took Aarav into her lap and placed a kiss on top of his head. She played with him until lunchtime, then decided to go back into the house. Just as they were about to, Shalini and Aryan arrived with Ahana.

"How did it go at the doctors," Khushi asked.

"These doctors are nothing but stupid," Aryan huffed.

"Aryan," Shalini scolded, covering Ahana's ears while Khushi did the same to Aarav, frowning at him.

"Well they are! So what if you're a little older? Big whoop!"

"They just want to make sure that-"

"That there's no risk of any diseases, blah, blah, blah!"

Khushi pursed her lips to stop her smile while Shalini scowled at him.

"It's better to be safe than sorry," Shalini pointed out.

"Sorry about what? You're healthy, I'm healthy, so she's going to be healthy, end of!"

Shalini rolled her eyes and Aryan took Ahana from her.

"Your mom is worrying for nothing," he muttered.

"Am not," Shalini defended, but Aryan ignored her, cooing at his daughter.

"If you two are done, shall we head inside," Khushi chuckled.

"Yes please, I'm starving," Aryan groaned.

They began to head inside, when one of the guards came over. "Khushi Bhabi, there's a package for you and they need your signature."

"Package," Khushi questioned. "But I didn't- oh, it must be those bottles!"

"Bottles," Shalini questioned.

"One of Arnav's business partners got us glass baby bottles as a present when they heard I was pregnant again, and they said it would be delivered to us. I guess it must be that."

Shalini hummed and then took Aarav from her. "You go ahead and sign, and I'll get the little ready to eat."

Khushi nodded and headed towards the gate while the others headed inside with the infants. The deliveryman stood outside the gates by his truck, so Khushi went over to him.

"Khushi Arnav Singh Raizada," he asked.

"That's me."

In a flash, the man covered her mouth with his hand and Khushi squealed, She tried to pry the man's hand away, but his grip was too strong. The man began to drag her back, Khushi struggling to free herself from his hold, She tried hard to scream, but his hand continued to cover her mouth, preventing her from making any loud noise. As he moved her to the back of the truck, Khushi realized what he was going to do, She tried to pry away again, but her hands were forced behind her back with his arm. He only loosened his hold on her momentarily to retrieve a syringe and stabbed it right into her arm, injecting the fluid within her. It took its affect instantly, Khushi no longer fighting him and sleep starting to take over her.

With the injection taking its affect, the man began to place Khushi inside the truck. Just as he placed her inside, Arnav drove from around the corner and saw the truck. At first he couldn't clearly see what was happening from the distance, but just as he got closer, he had enough time to see the man close the shutter and see a lifeless Khushi.

"Khushi," he yelled out.

The man quickly got into the truck and sped off, Arnav speeding up to catch the guy. He quickly called his father as he chased the truck.

"Chote-"

"Khushi's been kidnapped!"

"What?!"

"She's senseless in the back of some fucking truck, some fucking idiot took her!"

"How?! She was just at the gate- shit! There was no real delivery!"

"Get the cops quickly, I'll let you know where once I've tagged him down."

Arnav quickly hung up and followed after the truck, going to the outskirts of town.

I swear, if he does anything to my Khushi, I will not let him live!

Chapter Sixteen

Smash!

It was unknown how many things Dhruv had now drunkenly broken - not that he cared. The only thing he cared about was his loss at a chance of a hundred crores.

A hundred crores! One hundred fucking crores! And it's all fucking his!

Dhruv took hold of a vase and tossed it to the floor, the glass object shattering to pieces. He took a swig of his whisky, not caring of the burn it left behind.

He did it on purpose! He had to have done it on purpose! What other motive does he have in life other than to torture me? Make me suffer? Nothing!

Dhruv tossed the bottle at the wall and it shattered to pieces. He panted heavily as he went to get another bottle of whiskey. Opening it, he took another swig and eyed the shards of the broken bottle. On the large shards were pools of whiskey, in which Dhruv saw what he had discovered earlier today. 

While the guards were changing shifts, Dhruv used this time to sneak into his brothers study to find his father's will. He was in need of money and needed the exact details of the will to find the girl who would get him his money. So he picked the lock to his drawer and carefully went through the files, and tried to leave everything as it was, but the guards were starting to come back, leaving the locked drawer unlocked and the door to the study open in its suspicious way as he sneaked out.

You cost me a hundred crores Bhai. I will not spare you.

*~*

Arnav Singh Raizada sat in his study, trying hard to focus on his work. Though hard as he tried, his mind kept wandering off to his crying wife upstairs.

Stop it! Stop thinking about her!

But his mind refused. So with a sigh, Arnav leaned back in his chair and shut his eyes. His mind displayed his hurt Khushi and the expressions she made as he told her the whole truth.

Well, almost.

"So the bottom line is that... you married me simply to stop Dhruv from getting money."

"A large sum, yes."

"And that's what its always been?"

"Yes."

"And that's still why?"

"Yes."

Arnav opened his eyes with a groan and stared up at the ceiling.

Why do you have to be such an ass Raizada? She has no fault in any of it. She just found out everything today. She just learned of her dead sister. For fuck's sake, she just found out her father is dead! What is wrong with you?

Arnav picked up his pen from his desk and began to tap it.

You just always have to be a sarcastic ass, don't you? And you couldn't just help the poor girl's heart, you couldn't give her the one thing she needed to prevent her from crumbling entirely. Good job Raizada, good job!

Looking at his laptop, which displayed grainy, black and white security footage, Arnav watched as his step-brother broke into his drawer. Arnav looked at that very drawer and opened it, which was still unlocked. He went through the paperwork, things his father had once touched. For a moment, he felt his father's hands instead of the paper.

With a sigh, Arnav placed the files back and locked the drawer. He made a mental note of changing the lock and key to the drawer. Even if Khushi and his idiotic step-brother knew of everything, it was still a good drawer to keep things locked up in, which he didn't need his step-brother to put his nose in.

Since he couldn't focus on work, Arnav shut his laptop and exited his study. He found Meghla right outside, dusting.

"Oh, hello dear," she smiled.

Arnav gave her a nod with a small smile. She was one person Arnav very much appreciated - she was like a mother to him.

"Hungry? I can-"

"It's okay, I'm not hungry. But if you could send something up for Khushi, that would be okay."

Meghla nodded and she left to the kitchen. Arnav took out his phone from his pocket and texted Aman. Within seconds, Aman appeared.

"Sir," he greeted.

"Any idea where that idiotic step-brother of mine is?"

"After his childish rampage? No sir."

Arnav could see that Aman was struggling to prevent his smirk, but Arnav didn't care. "Well if you find out, let me know. I might care to say a few words to him."

"Yes Sir."

Arnav nodded, dismissing him. With another glance at his phone and noting the number of emails he had, Arnav headed upstairs. It had been a few hours since he had left Khushi in their room. He could only wonder what condition she was in.

When he entered the room, he found Khushi in same position, sitting on the bed, having hardly moved at all. She had her arms wrapped around her legs, her forehead leaning against her knees. Seeing her made his heart ache and he wanted to soothe her. But being the man he was, he didn't.

"Are you going to cry all day?"

Khushi looked up with a gasp and seeing her tear-stained face made his heart pang, making him regret his words.

But its not like Khushi could tell; he was a master at his poker face.

Khushi wiped her tears away and rubbed her sleeve over her nose. Arnav took a good look at her sleeve, noting the dark damp spots on it - clearly she had been wiping her face clean numerous times with it. So without another word, Arnav went over to her and picked her up in his arms.

"What are you-?"

Arnav gave her the eyes, which he didn't know was what she called it, and took her into the bathroom. He placed her down in front of the counter and bent down to take off her kameez. Khushi had tried to stop him, holding his hand, but Arnav gave her the eyes once more and brushed them away. He removed her clothes, Khushi looking away. He could see the pain in them, understanding that there would be no pleasure in this for her at all.

With every article of clothing removed, Arnav picked her up and seated her on the counter, somewhat surprising her. He picked up a washcloth and ran it under some water before wiping her face clean. Khushi watched him with surprise but he avoided her gaze, focusing on her.

Way to go Raizada! You can take care of the girl, show her such loving gestures - be loving to her somehow - yet you can't even tell her that you love her. Way to go man, way to go!

Setting the wash cloth aside, he picked her up again, Khushi wrapping her legs around his waist as a reflex. He walked them right into the shower and placed her down, Khushi watching him with confusion. He simply turned her around and took his clothes off, placing them outside with his phone on top. Returning to Khushi, he reached around her and punched the buttons on the pad, turning the shower on. The second the water hit her, Khushi gasped and stepped back into him, and he held her waist. The water streamed down on both, but neither said a word, Arnav's eyes staying on her.

I wonder what she's thinking about. But what should it matter to me? I'm just going to end up being a sarcastic ass to her, regardless. Geez Raizada, she isn't that idiot nor any of your workers. Why do you have to act the same way towards her?

Arnav simply watched her, her body slightly rising up and down as she breathed. 

You know her story, you know what she's been through. She's no whore, no slut - none of it. Except her few fun times with the other girls there, or lessons as they're called, she's never been with anyone. All she's ever known is her drunken father, the brothel, and the sorrow of her life. ...and I'm only adding to it.

Khushi wrapped her arms around her, snapping Arnav from his thoughts. She shivered and shuddered, so he wrapped his arms around her, surprising Khushi. He buried his face in her hair, causing her to slightly turn to glance at him.

I am who I am because of my past. What's done is done, that can't be helped. But at least open your heart to her, Raizada. She's probably the only person you could ever trust in this lifetime. You may have been deceived before....

Arnav couldn't help but to remember the first day his father had brought home his stepmother. His father had told him that she would be a nice person, just like his mother, but the woman was everything else but that, nothing but a wretched and vile person. Every time he had tried to do nice deeds for her, hoping to earn her love, it did nothing but backfire on him. 

Khushi isn't that woman, not even close. So then why? Why can't I let her in? Why do I continue to be such an ass?

Arnav let out a sigh, causing Khushi to shudder from the heat of his breath. She looked back up at him and Arnav looked at her. While Khushi tried to figure out what was going through his head. Arnav was suffering from trying to display it. He cursed himself for having perfected his poker face, trying hard to tear it down, but it wouldn't. Khushi looked away, her look of dismay clear on her face.

Dammit Raizada!

Annoyed with himself, Arnav reached over for the shampoo and washed Khushi's hair. Khushi didn't say a word and let him do his handiwork, letting him clean her up. Usually she would enjoy it and Arnav would always know when she would let out her little hums. But this time, she was absolutely silent.

Fuck!

Cleaning himself up quickly and having them both rinsed properly, Arnav wrapped them both up in towels. He blow dried her hair for her, Khushi watching him with confusion and hurt marring her face. And as much as Arnav wanted to tell her of his true feelings, it just wouldn't make past his throat. So instead he took care of her, putting on her pajamas for her before putting on his own. When they went back into the bedroom, they found a tray with soup and bread waiting. So without a word, Arnav sat her down on the bed to feed her.

"I'm not hungry," Khushi whispered.

Arnav arched his eyebrow at her, giving her the eyes, even though he tried hard to not behave that way. "Eat."

Dammit, don't be mean to her!

Arnav held the spoon in front of her again. "Eat," he said briskly.

Job well done! You ass!

"I-"

But he cut her off, placing the spoon into her mouth. Khushi squealed around it and looked at him wide-eyed. But Arnav ignored her and held another spoonful of soup to her mouth.

"Ar-"

And he cut her off, placing the spoon into her mouth. This time she glared at him but Arnav simply smirked.

"You're eating all of this. Deal with it," he said.

I won't have you fainting on me or falling ill.

"I don't want to."

"Well that's too bad for you, isn't it?"

Again! Stop being such a sarcastic ass!

Khushi rolled her eyes and looked away.

"Eat," he gritted, holding the spoon out to her.

How nice are you? That's right, use that sarcasm on yourself! ...ass!

Khushi took the spoonful with a huff and it continued this way until every drop of soup and bite of bread was finished. He tucked her under the covers and stood up with the tray, and without saying another word, he walked out of the room.

She has to hate you at this point. She must, thanks to your asshole self.

A worker came walking his way, so Arnav gave the tray for him to take away. Arnav headed the other way, walking through the halls until he arrived to a door. It was locked, restricted from access to everyone but him. Taking the key out, Arnav unlocked the door, entered, and shut the door behind him, locking it.

The room wasn't much, just an old bedroom - the room his parents had shared once upon a time. After his father had married his stepmother, he never stayed in this room again, the two staying in another room. Everything in the room had been covered up in sheets and the room had been forgotten by everyone but Arnav. Coming to this room brought him closure, brought a feeling of his mother.

Arnav went over to the vanity table and removed the cloth that covered it. He opened the single drawer it had, and retrieved a silver hair brush. Memories flashed in his mind, of old videos which had been recorded while his mother was still alive. He couldn't remember her much, since he was very young when she had passed away. Those videos were the only memories he had of her. In one of those videos, his father had been playfully teasing his mother while she was brushing her hair.

With a shuddering sigh, Arnav put the brush away. He walked over to the other side, where a large portrait leaned against the wall. Removing the cloth that covered it, Arnav sat down on the floor, gazing at the portrait of his mother. 

You just had to leave me at a young age, didn't you? And then my stupid father had to marry her, didn't he?

Arnav sighed, glancing down at the ground before looking back at the portrait.

We were both stupid though. He believed her through her charades and I thought I could finally have a mother, we both did. But that woman was nothing but a bitch. I really was stupid for thinking a stepmother could ever be a mother, really, I was. That woman be my mother? Arnav scoffed. As if. ...but that was what I really wanted.

Ever since then, trust has always been... I've never been able to let anyone close to me. Not ever again. She broke my heart, that woman. And now with Khushi in my life....

Khushi and her are absolutely different. That woman married Dad just for his money, never truly loving him and never accepting me as her son. Khushi had no idea she had so much money over her head. She loves me and I can see it in her eyes but.... I don't know what to do Ammu. I really don't.

With a sigh, Arnav laid back on the floor.

How do I tell her Ammu, that I love her?

Chapter Fifty Seven

With Aarav back in their lives, the Raizada home was filled with talk and laughter, the family coming over to see him and to play with him. Aarav and his baby aunt Ahana became quick friends and everyone loved watching them play together.

"So what exactly is he going to call her," NK asked with a frown.

"It's going to be awkward between the two, I'm sure," Akash said.

"It's always been awkward, even before the two got here," Arnav said, holding his son in his lap.

"Nonsense," Khushi said. "How is it awkward," she asked as she tried to feed Aarav.

"My sister is older than my son by a few minutes - its weird."

Khushi rolled her eyes.

"Chill Bhai," Lavanya said as she sat down beside him. "It's kinda cool."

"Cool? How the hell-?"

"Arnav," Khushi scolded.

"That's not a bad word," Arnav said defensively.

Khushi scowled at him and Arnav rolled his eyes, earning another scowl.

"Okay fine!" He turned back to Lavanya. "How the," and he quickly covered his son's ears, "hell," and uncovered them, "is it cool?"

Khushi placed her palm on her forehead with a shake of her head.

"Is this what I'm gonna have to deal with when he gets here," Seema said as she joined the others with Payal.

"I'm afraid so," Khushi scowled at Arnav, but he was busy frowning at Lavanya.

"Well it's not like every kid can say hey! My aunt is my age," Lavanya said.

Arnav scowled at her and covered his son's ears. "Shut up," and uncovered them.

Khushi palmed her forehead again. "Hai DM!"

Aarav cooed and tossed his arms up and so did Ahana.

"Did Ammu call?"

"They're still holed up at the doctors," Arnav replied.

Khushi nodded in acknowledgement. Payal went around to Ahana and sat down on the floor, placing her in her lap. Ahana bounced in her lap and babbled, and Aarav babbled back.

"What do you think they're saying," Payal wondered.

"That we're weird for talking differently," Lavanya shrugged.

Ahana and Aarav babbled again, Aarav tossing his arms in the air, preventing Khushi from feeding him.

"Aarav please baby, can't you be like Ahana and eat properly without a fuss?"

Aarav babbled but his arms were still in the air.

"I guess not," Payal chuckled.

Khushi sighed. "He just has to be difficult like his father."

"What the-? Excuse me," Arnav frowned.

"Don't you start with me Mr. Arnav Singh Raizada. And keep saying what the, and watch how our son's first words will be those."

Arnav rolled his eyes. "I am not difficult."

"Yes you are, and so is your son."

"Oh my son, is he?"

"Yes!"

Arnav rolled his eyes once more before taking Aarav's food from her hands. He placed the spoonful of baby food at Aarav's lips and little one ate as Arnav fed him with no difficulty.

Khushi scoffed. "Really?"

"That's my little man," Arnav grinned.

"Please tell me I won't have to deal with this," Seema said.

"I'm afraid you will," Khushi said, reaching out for her hand.

"No!"

"Oh yeah," NK grinned.

"That's why you should've had a girl," Payal said.

"Well its not like it was up to me," Seema frowned. "It's all his fault!"

"Hey," NK said defensively.

"Well if everyone else is having a boy - well, at least until we know what Khushi Bhabi is having - then you Payal Bhabi must have a girl," Lavanya said.

"What? Me," Payal blushed.

"I like the sound of that," Akash smirked.

Everyone whooped around them, the little ones looking up at them with confusion, Ahana placing her fist in her mouth.

"What do you think Bhabi," Lavanya asked. "Think you're ready for one of these," she asked, taking Ahana and wiggling her in the air, before placing her back in her lap.

"I... uh... um-"

The ladies began to snicker, even the guys smirked at Akash.

"I... well... uh- if Lavanya gets married, then."

"What," Lavanya shrieked.

"Now there's a horrific idea," Arnav muttered.

"What," she shrieked even louder. "And why would that be horrific?"

"Have you seen yourself?"

Lavanya tried to hurt him but he held out Aarav's food, threatening to drop it on her. Lavanya pulled back with a pout, crossing her arms.

"Ignore him," Khushi said. "After all, you've got Aman, so your brother here is wrong."

Arnav scowled at Khushi but she ignored him.

"Now all you need to do is take the next step, and Payal Bhabi here will take her step," Seema chuckled.

The two ladies blushed, glancing at each other. 

Arnav's phone began to ping, so he placed Aarav's food down and took his phone out of his pocket. He saw that it was a text from his father, saying that they were going to be late.

"Looks like they're still waiting on the doctor," Arnav frowned.

"That's why I hate check ups," Khushi frowned.

"I'd rather go to the gynecologists office than a plain ol' checkup," Seema scowled.

Khushi reached back, placing her hand over Seema's baby bump. "How's my little nephew doing?"

"Good. It's me who deals with the kicking," she sighed.

"Well you have to remember who's the father," Akash smirked.

NK scowled at him while the others chuckled.

"Believe me, the little one reminds me every moment he can. Just one-ish more month till the kicking ends."

"And then he'll be in your arms," Payal smiled.

"That he will," Khushi said absentmindedly. 

Khushi blinked, snapping her out of her trance. She looked at her son, who had been successfully fed by his father. Khushi couldn't help her smile and stood up, taking him in her arms to wash him up. Arnav handed her the empty plastic container which once contained Aarav's food and Khushi headed to the kitchen. She discarded the container and wiped her son's mouth clean, removing the tissues which were tucked into his shirt since Arnav couldn't find his bib.

"There we go, my baby is all nice and clean," Khushi beamed.

Aarav blew a raspberry, making Khushi giggle. As she went back to rejoin the others, the little one yawned and placed his head on his mommy's shoulder.

"Looks like someone is tired," Arnav said when he saw them.

"His auntie would say the same," Payal said, looking down at Ahana.

"His other aunt has to agree," NK said, pointing at his sleeping wife.

"Let her be," Lavanya frowned. "It's bad enough she's carrying your child, and then you have to always annoy her."

NK glared at her and Lavanya let out a toothy grin, holding her ears. Arnav went to Khushi and took the little guy in his arms.

"Where's Ahana's bassinet," Arnav asked, patting Aarav's back, the little one letting out a burp.

"I'll go get it," Khushi said and she did so.

Moments later, she rolled in Ahana's bassinet. Payal went to get up to place her down, but NK took her.

"Might as well get some practice in," he said.

Payal smiled and handed the little girl over to him. NK carried her carefully in his arms and placed her down in the bassinet, covering her with her baby blanket. He let out a sigh and looked at the little one before looking at his pregnant wife. Arnav went over to him, placing his hand on his shoulder.

"You'll do just fine," he reassured him.

"You sure Nanav? I don't think I'm ready.

"No one ever is."

The corner of NK 's lips tugged up and he looked at his brother and nephew. "Easy for you to say."

Arnav glanced down at his son and placed a kiss on his head. "Wasn't always easy. This past month has been... eye-opening."

NK just looked at Aarav for a moment. "Think I can really do it?"

Arnav glanced him up and down. "Eventually," he smirked playfully.

NK scoffed lightly and looked down. 

Akash came over and wrapped his arm around NK's neck. "Hey, I want to join the club too."

The ladies chuckled while Arnav and NK glanced at each other. Freeing himself from his hold, NK placed his elbow on Akash's shoulder, Arnav doing the same, placing his elbow on his other shoulder.

"Look Akash," Arnav began. "If at this age, you still don't know how to make a baby..."

Akash's eyes widened.

"...then I'm afraid I have nothing to say, other than the fact that even NK has surpassed you and you have failed."

"I-"

"Oh Akash, brother of mine," NK began, "you have so much to learn."

"No I don't!"

Aarav cooed and brought his tiny thumb to his mouth.

"Even my son agrees," Aranv said, removing his thumb from his mouth.

"You Raizada men are something else," Khushi said, shaking her head.

"Tell me about it," Payal and Lavanya chimed.

The men ignored them and Akash freed himself, crossing his arms. "I know very well how to make a baby."

"So then do it," both Arnav and NK said.

Payal's eyes widened and she crimsoned while the other ladies giggled.

"You know what - I'll do just that," Akash said.

Payal's eyes shot up to him. "What," she squeaked.

Akash turned to her and he winked, causing Payal to blush and look away. He walked over to her and picked her up, holding her in his arms. The other whooped, causing the little ones to stir, as well as Seema.

"Looks like I've got some work cut ahead for me," Akash said, looking down at Payal.

Payal blushed, burying her face in his chest. 

Akash began to walk towards the door. "See you guys later," and the two were gone.

Khushi and Lavanya giggled like schoolgirls, waving at them.

"And I repeat - you Raizada men are something else," Khushi grinned.

Arnav and NK stood proudly, Arnav holding up his son's hand who was too tired to lift his head.

"Alright, let him sleep," Khushi chuckled.

Arnav rocked Aarav from side to side, the little one slowly dozing to sleep. Khushi went over to them and placed her hand on his back, patting it lightly.

"It really is taking Papa and Ammu some time," Khushi frowned.

"Stupid doctors," Arnav muttered and Khushi scowled at him. "He's asleep," and Khushi shook her head.

But still, it was rather curious why it was taking Aryan and Shalini so long at the doctors. The truth is they were done with Shalini's appointment but the two had gotten a bit, er, distracted. Even though Ahana was a calm baby, she was still quite young and needed her mother's attention, giving daddy no time for any attention at all. So now that he had gotten a moment alone with her, Aryan had taken advantage of the moment and they had gone to a hotel, of course, after Aryan had managed to convince her.

Yup, it really is true that the Raizada men were truly something else ;)

Chapter Fifteen

With Arnav being at the office, Khushi found herself being busy at the house. She would do some housework here and there, as the workers barely let her do anything. Sometimes she would read and would later tell Arnav of the wonderful stories she had read. But most of the times she would find herself in the ballroom, dancing.

She missed dancing. It was something she loved to do back when she was at the brothel... as well as receiving pleasure. But her pleasure was always satisfied by Arnav, so there was no lack there.

Music filled the room and Khushi danced. A smile was spread across her face and she twirled around the room.

This is just perfect, she sighed.

With her eyes shut, she danced to her hearts content, singing along with the song. When the song ended, so did her dance, and the sound of clapping filled the room. Khushi gasped and turned towards where the sound came from and saw Arnav. He was leaning against the doorway, clad in a navy suit, the top two buttons of his shirt undone. Khushi found herself biting her lip, her sex clenching.

Her desire was very much obvious to Arnav. So he walked forward with purpose and when he reached Khushi, he picked her up. Khushi happily wrapped her legs around his waist and wrapped her arms around his neck.

"Will you take me here," Khushi asked innocently.

Arnav smirked and instead of answering, he walked out of the room. Khushi looked at him in confusion as he walked through the house, passing the bodyguards who stood in their places. Just as Arnav was about to go upstairs, Aman came walking into the room.

"Sir."

Arnav paused and glared at Aman, causing the poor man to look down. "What," he growled.

"Your step-brother," Aman explained.

Arnav groaned with a roll of his eyes. Even Khushi sighed with annoyance.

"Fucking cock blocker," Arnav huffed.

Khushi caressed his cheeks, trying to soothe him. With a sigh, Arnav placed her down on her feet and leaned in to her.

"You better wait for me wifey," he whispered.

"I want you now," Khushi whispered back, her hand moving down from his chest to his pants.

However Arnav stopped her hands from wandering and she pouted.

"Naughty wifey," he grinned.

"Me," she said innocently, batting her eyelashes.

Arnav groaned and kissed her, forcing her back to lean against the banister. Khushi moaned and gripped onto him as he moved to her neck.

"Arnav," she moaned.

Arnav groaned and let go of her. He kissed her once more then turned to Aman, looking angry as hell.

"I'm gonna fucking kill that cock blocker," he said, though his voice was surprisingly calm.

Arnav walked away, Aman following behind. Khushi sighed, her shoulders sagging.

Devarji just has to be annoying, doesn't he?

Shaking her head clear, Khushi decided to head upstairs. Yet something made her stop. Khushi noticed that the doors to Arnav's study was slightly open. She found it suspicious that it was open like that, as if someone had sneaked inside and forgot to close the doors behind them. Curious, Khushi walked in.

Arnav's study was vast, hidden behind double doors underneath the grand staircases. The room was round, windows covering the back end of the room, allowing sunlight to come in. On the left were leather couches and a coffee table by a fireplace, where Arnav would sometimes sit with his guests to discuss business. On the right were bookshelves filled with several novels and encyclopedias. Before the windows sat his grand cherry wood desk, his leather chair behind it and two chairs in front of it. Not too much decor graced the walls, just a few here and there.

Khushi went to Arnav's desk and looked around. It was clean and organized, just the way Arnav would leave it. His Macbook was closed and in its place as well. As nothing seemed out of place, Khushi turned to leave when she noticed a drawer slightly open - a drawer which should have been locked.

Some time ago Khushi had been in here reading a book from one of Arnav's shelves. While turning a page, she managed to get a paper-cut so she went searching in Arnav's desk to see if he had any bandages. That was when she discovered that the middle drawer on the right was locked. When she later questioned Arnav about it, of course he gave her the eyes and told her it was none of her business, but Khushi slowly figured it out for herself that that drawer was always locked, no matter what.

Now that it was open, she couldn't pass up the opportunity.

Khushi quickly dashed to the doors to see if there was any sign of Arnav returning, but she didn't see nor hear him. The guards were in their places, but as she would go into Arnav's study to read now and then, there was no suspicion on her in their case. So Khushi shut the door and went back to the desk. She pulled open the unlocked drawer and found two files - the top one looked quite old, the corner bent and crooked, the color darkened in age. The other one looked old too, but not as old as the first one. Khushi opened the first file and found various papers inside but she didn't quite understand them. She browsed through it until she came across a photo. Picking it up, Khushi looked at carefully.

In the picture was of just one man, standing tall and proud, yet with a gentle smile on his face. He had short brown hair and brown eyes, clean shaven. He wore a black suit with a black tie, his arms crossed in front of him. Something about him seemed quite familiar and before long, Khushi realized that this old photograph contained a picture of none other than her deceased father in-law.

My gosh... Arnav looks so much like him.

Khushi placed the photograph back in its spot and continued to look through the file. There was more paperwork within, some Khushi didn't understand, others she realized to be old business contracts with various people and businesses. None of them seemed out of sort, until she got to the last one. It was different than the others but what had really caught her attention was a name that was typed on it.

Shashi Gupta

Khushi was shocked. She had no idea that her drunken father knew the late Aryan Singh Raizada, let alone had a contract with him.

But why would a drunkard like my father have business with a successful business man such as my late father in-law?

Khushi pulled out the paper from the file and read through it. The contents of the paper, however, shocked Khushi. According to the contract, her father Shashi had loaned Aryan Singh Raizada ten crores, which Aryan would pay back with interest, as well as the promise of marrying his son to his daughter.

Khushi was stunned. My father had that kind of money? My father? But how? We could barely live off of what little he earned and wasted on alcohol, how...?

Khushi put the contract and file on top of the desk and opened the other file. The first thing on top was a newspaper clipping with a picture of her father, wearing a black suit and red tie, standing proudly. According to the article, after an investment gone terribly wrong, Shashi had gone bankrupt and had lost all of his money, ridding him of his business and his palatial home, tossing him and her pregnant mother to the streets. Khushi gasped in horror, and for the first time in her life, she felt bad for her father. After losing so much and only to lose her mother afterwards, it was no wonder why her father had turned into such a drunkard.

Putting the clipping aside, Khushi looked back at the file. Another contract sat on top and Khushi picked it up to analyze it. According to this contract, her late father in-law promised her father a total of twenty crores, money to be inherited to Khushi, in exchange of Khushi's hand in marriage with his son.

Twenty crores?! Wait...

Khushi looked back at the old file and looked at the old contract.

He offered my father double, giving my father profit. So why-?

It was then the Khushi noticed that unlike the old contract, this contract was missing a signature. While the first contained signatures of both Aryan and Shashi's, the newer one only had Aryan's.

Why didn't my father sign it? Did he deny-? Of course he didn't, why would he ever deny money, he sold me to the brothel for goodness sake! So then.. does that mean he couldn't find my father? And....

Khushi looked through both contracts again.

I was promised to be married to Arnav? My father wanted me to marry Arnav? And his father wanted me to marry Arnav as well? So does that mean...? No, there's no way Arnav could have known who I was. Even I didn't know who nor what my father was, or at least once was. No one in the village ever knew who my father was except for as the drunkard of town. So how could Arnav possibly....

Placing both the contracts aside, Khushi looked at the folder once more. This time what she found was a will - her father in-law's will, or rather a copy of it. Khushi read through the document and once again, the contents of the papers shocked her.

According to Aryan's will, when his son married Khushi, he would inherit a total of one hundred crores automatically.

One hundred crores? That means... that means...

Tears began to flow down her cheeks, hitting the papers beneath.

He... he married me for the money. Arnav knew all along, he knew who my father was, he told me the first day he brought me here! Which means... he only married me for the money.

Khushi thought of all the times she had caught him giving her caring and affectionate glances, looks which seemed to show love.

How delusional have I been?! He never loved me! He doesn't love me! He used me! Like everyone else, he used me! For money!

Khushi's fists clenched tightly.

First my father used me for money and tossed me away! Now Arnav-!

The doors to the study opened, revealing Arnav. Khushi looked up at him and Arnav noticed her tear-stained cheeks. It wasn't the first time he had seen her crying. Now and then when Khushi would be too entrapped by her novels, she would cry. At first he would find it ridiculous of her to be so emotional by words off of a page. But slowly, without even realizing it, he began to care and felt bad when she would. He then never realized when he had gotten to the point that it would hurt him to see her in tears and emotional pain. It was when he realized his heart would constrict at the sight that Arnav realized that maybe he did feel something a little more for her than just caring.

Hard as he tried to rid of the feeling, it only got stronger and hit him with realization - Arnav Singh Raizada had fallen in love with Khushi Arnav Singh Raizada.

"Wifey-?"

Khushi dashed up from the chair and charged out of the room, bumping past Arnav. Her attitude enraged him and he went after her.

"Khushi!"

But Khushi didn't care, her fists tight as hot tears continued to stream down her cheeks. Fast as she tried to get away from him, however, was not fast enough, as Arnav caught up to her with ease and swung her back to him. Khushi tried hard to free herself from his grip, but it was just too tight.

"Would you stop struggling, you're only going to hurt yourself-"

"What do you care if I hurt myself," Khushi sneered.

Arnav was shocked by her anger, but it didn't take long for him to recover. He gripped onto her hair tightly, bringing a hiss out of her mouth as he tried to still her.

"Watch it," he hissed.

But Khushi's eyes still blazed. "Let me go, I don't want to see your face at all!"

"Well that's too bad wifey, you're not going anywhere."

Khushi looked away, disgusted when he called her wifey. Arnav found this peculiar, as Khushi would normally like it when he called her that.

"What's wrong with you," he asked, absolutely confused. "Are you fucking PMSing or some shit?"

Khushi glared at him. "I know about the contract."

Arnav cocked his eyebrow.

"I know the hundred crores your were promised for marrying me."

This time Arnav's eyes widened. "How the hell-?!"

"I saw the contract of my father giving your father money in exchange of your marriage to me! I saw the contract of your father giving my father double the money in exchange of my marriage with you! I saw your father's will, promising a hundred crores if you married me!!!"

Khushi screamed with anger and forced herself free from Arnav. Arnav was absolutely stunned by her actions, causing him to watch her with wide eyes as she charged away. However it was only moments until he went up to her and grabbed her by her wrist, pushing her back against the wall.

"Don't-"

"How the fuck do you know," Arnav asked.

"Let me go-"

"How the fucking hell did you know?!"

"I saw the fucking files! The door to your study was opened suspiciously and I went to check out and found the the locked drawer open and found the fucking files!"

"What the fuck-?"

"Let me go!"

Khushi tried to free herself, but Arnav's grip tightened.

"Let me go!"

But Arnav didn't loosen his grip.

"Let go of me Arnav!"

But he still wouldn't and continued to glare at her.

"Let me- let go of me Arnav, just please, let..."

Khushi broke into tears once more and her head bowed forward as she began to cry. Her heart ached and she was very much hurt by all of this. But not only did her heart ache, but Arnav's did as well. The sight of her crying hurt him, and so he caressed her cheek and kissed away her tears. Khushi was shocked by his actions and looked at him.

"Don't cry," he whispered, his voice soft as if they weren't just yelling at each other.

Khushi simply watched him, still in shock. Arnav looked at her and for a moment, neither said a word. They simply looked at each other, both with a mixture of anger, hurt, and love. A few moments later, Arnav bent down and carried Khushi in her arms. Khushi was still stunned by him, so she didn't rebel. Arnav took them into their room and placed her down on the bed before sitting in front of her. He poured her a glass of water and Khushi took it, guzzling it down.

"I'm sure there's a lot of questions you have-"

"I think I know all I needed to know Arnav."

Arnav arched his eyebrow at her and Khushi knew that it was his annoyance for her cutting him off, but she didn't care how much he gave her the eyes.

"All this time, I always asked you why - why you married me and what the reason was behind it. Today I finally know," and tears once again stung her eyes.

Arnav looked away with an annoyed sigh and after some thought, he looked at her again. "Okay fine, now you know-"

"So I'm right."

Arnav's eyebrows scrunched. "What?"

"I'm right then - you did marry me for the money."

"Well yeah-"

Khushi looked away and brought her knees to her chest, hugging them. She tried hard not to cry and tried to force herself into not caring, but it was just so hard. Especially because she was in love with this man.

Suddenly Arnav's hand was in her hair, forcing her to look at him. "Arnav-"

"How much do you know?"

"Arnav-"

"Wrong answer."

Khushi glared at him. "What the fuck does it matter how much I know?!"

"Wrong answer again. How much do you know," he asked again, this time his voice with edge.

Khushi tried hard not to gulp in fear, but she did. "Just what I read," she responded.

Arnav sighed and let go of her, looking away. Khushi watched him as his mind worked. She wondered what he was thinking, when he turned back to her.

"There's some things you need to know about all of this."

"What more could I possibly need to know Arnav? I read-"

"Those contracts and my father's will won't tell you the history of what happened."

Khushi was confused.

"Years ago - many years ago - your father used to run Gupta Incorporated. He and my father both did business and were friends. In fact, they were good friends, though quite competitive. Your father was at my parents wedding, as well as when my father married my stepmother."

Khushi was shocked - not just by the new information she was learning, but by the fact that Arnav had given a little piece of his past. Arnav never spoke of his parents, nor his stepmother, not ever. So the fact that he was doing this now meant that whatever he was about to tell her was really important.

"When my father needed money for a new business investment, your father loaned him ten crores, but not so easily. He had a condition, which was that his son would have to marry his daughter."

"Meaning you would have to marry me."

"Not necessarily. You see, your father never said which son - it could've meant either me or my idiotic step-brother."

Khushi was confused. "Wait, what?"

"At the time the contract was made, my father was already remarried to Dhruv's mother. I was four at the time and Dhruv was two."

"But..." Khushi simply couldn't understand.

"You weren't born yet, yes, but your mother was pregnant with your sister at the time."

"My sister?! I have a sister?!"

"Had. You had a sister."

Khushi gasped. "What... what happened to her?"

"She died not long after being born. Her heart was too weak."

Khushi shut her eyes and looked away in pain.

"Your father thought that this was the perfect opportunity to turn the two families into more than just being friends, and my father thought the same, which is why he had happily agreed. Unfortunately a few months later... well it would have to wait.

"A few years passed and your father made a bad choice, going into a bad investment, and lost everything he had. Both your mother and your father were tossed into the streets and hard as my dad did try to help him, he couldn't. He tried to offer your father money, creating a contract where he would give your father twenty crores in exchange of their daughter's hand in marriage for his son. But your father had too much pride and hid from mine, unable to face him from shame.

"Your mother was pregnant with you at the time and my father hoped that it was a girl, which was why he added those terms. But my father couldn't find your family. You were born, your mother passed away, and your father had turned into a drunkard. No one recognized him and no one knew who he was except for as the town drunkard."

Again, Khushi felt really bad for her poor father.

"The only thing the man understood was alcohol and money, his brain no longer functioning correctly. In that time, my father passed away...."

Khushi looked at him as she saw a wave of emotions pass in his eyes.

"Before Dad passed away, he created his will. In it he stated that his son would have to marry you in order to receive an inheritance of a hundred crores."

Khushi looked away.

"I was eight when he passed away. I remember the lawyer gathering my step-mother, Dhruv, and I into my father's old study - my study. He read off everything in the will and at the time I didn't care. Years passed and I had forgotten all about it, my mind only on AR Industries. It wasn't until years later, when Dhruv's useless self came barging in into my study because I had decreased the amount of money I gave him per month."

"You give him money every month?"

"Well did you think he asked someone else," Arnav asked, as if the question was stupid and rhetorical.

Khushi ignored his sarcasm. "Then?"

"The fucker said that if he didn't get his money, he'd do whatever it took to get money. Even marry you."

Khushi's eyes widened. "Me?"

Arnav turned his body to her and leaned in slightly. "Understand one thing Khushi - neither of us knew who you were, not at first. When your father and your mother hid from my father's radar, no one knew your name nor were even sure if they had a daughter. My father passed away before he could find out. And fortunately or unfortunately, my father never stated which of his sons were to marry you. Of course Dhruv's useless self would remember of something that could get him instant cash. And because that useless shit doesn't deserve any of that money, I set out to find you."

Khushi blinked, slightly moving back. His words had surprised her.

"While that idiot did nothing to find you, he found you anyways without even knowing, going to the brothel. And while he did that, I had my men searching everywhere far and wide, looking for your father. Eventually we found him but... I only had enough time for his last few words."

Khushi gasped. "You mean he's...."

Arnav nodded, looking away. "He died in peace," he said softly.

Again tears stung in her eyes, Khushi shutting them to hopefully stop them, turning away.

"He was laying in his death bed, coughing severely. He hadn't had a drink in a while according to the people who were watching him. I offered to take him to the hospital, but he denied. ...he knew who I was immediately, just by the look on my face."

Khushi looked back at him.

"He told me everything that had happened to him, your mother, and you. He told me everything I needed to know." Arnav sighed. "He told me that if I found you... he wanted me to tell you that he's always loved you and hopes you forgive him."

Tears brimmed in her eyes. "And you're telling me this now?!"

Arnav sighed, looking down at his hands as he softly rubbed his palms together. "Well I guess I deserved that."

"You deserve worse!"

His steely eyes snapped up to hers. "Watch it," he gritted.

But Khushi didn't lower her eyes.

"You're lucky I ever found him in the first place. If Dhruv had somehow miraculously found him, or heck, found out who you were, do you think we'd be having this conversation right now? Instead, he probably would've been fucking you on top of a hundred crores!"

Khushi recoiled, disgusted by the thought. She was so revolted, her hand went to her throat to stop her gag.

"That's what I thought. When I found out the next day that Dhruv had met someone with the name of Khushi, I asked my men to find out if you were the one I was looking for. Once I did, I didn't waste a second and got ten million just to buy you off from her because I knew that cunning Ichcha would never let go of an asset so easily."

"But she let me go, didn't she? That too, quite easily," Khushi said sadly.

"She let you go because she got what she wanted and that was money. You think she really ever gave a shit about you Khushi? All that woman ever cares about is money and nothing more."

Khushi said nothing for a moment, turning away. "So... so you married me... just to stop your step-brother?"

"Yes. Him and his mother don't deserve any of that money."

Now that caught Khushi's attention. "His mother? She's still alive?"

"Unfortunately, yes. She just doesn't have the courage to face me, so she uses the pathetic piece of shit she gave birth to, to do her shit."

Khushi hummed in acknowledgement. She had learned so much - things she wanted to know and things she didn't even know existed - in such short time. However Khushi was still hurt.

"So the bottom line is that... you married me simply to stop Dhruv from getting money."

"A large sum, yes."

"And that's what its always been?"

"Yes."

"And that's still why," she asked, her voice nearly a whisper.

Arnav gritted his teeth. "Yes."

That one word was enough to break her heart. She had hoped that he would have said no, but instead he said the opposite. Khushi urged herself not to cry and controlled herself.

"I'd like to be alone now," she said.

Arnav nodded and got up, leaving the room. The second the door shut, Khushi broke into tears and buried her face in a pillow, crying. She had hoped that maybe, at this point, Arnav would have wanted her, more than in a physical way. She had hoped that maybe, at this point, she had started to become essential to Arnav.

But alas, Khushi was still unwanted and nonessential.