Chapter Forty Nine

Arhat and Anjali arrived to the CitySpire and the the receptionist downstairs called up to the penthouse, informing Etta. She let Nigel know and he called Arnav to let him know.

"We'll be down in a moment," Arnav replied, and he ended the call.

"We should go," a sated Khushi sighed.

"We should," but neither made effort to move and they broke into laughter.

"We are some crazy children," Khushi chuckled.

"Perhaps," Arnav grinned.

With a stretch, Khushi got up from the floor and looked at their scattered clothes all over the floor.

"We truly are crazy," Khushi sighed.

Arnav sat up and ran his fingers along Khushi's back. "I don't mind."

"Nor do I," and she leaned in for a kiss.

Arnav kissed her softly then caressed her cheek. Judging from the look on his face, Khushi could tell that Arnav wanted to say something, but he seemed to be struggling.

"Is something wrong," Khushi asked.

Arnav shook his head. "No, everything's fine. Now come on, up you get. Let's get this show on the road."

"Oh yes, indeed," and the two got up, quickly got ready, and headed on down.

When the couple arrived to the lobby, Anjali came dashing forward and gave her brother a hug.

"I'm so proud of you Chote," she beamed.

"Thanks Di."

Anjali released him and hugged Khushi. "Congratulations Khushi."

"Thank you," Khushi smiled.

Arhat came forward and congratulated Khushi as well, then turned to his son.

"Congrats son," he smiled.

He was about to go in for a hug, when Arnav held his hand out.

"Thank you," Arnav simply replied.

The two shook hands and the ladies noticed the tinge of disappointment in Arhat's expression.

Nigel appeared. "Good morning Mr. Raizada. Ready?"

Arnav nodded. "Yes Nigel, let's go."

They all headed out and got into the SUV. Nigel drove off to Madison Square Garden, where the commencement would take place. The entire ride there, Anjali spoke nonstop, keeping Khushi in conversation with her, Arhat humored by his chipper daughter, and Arnav rolling his eyes and seconds away from a headache.

When they were near the Garden, Anjali chirped.

"Eep! We're here!"

"Thank goodness," Arnav muttered.

Khushi had heard and nudged him, but Arnav simply rolled his eyes.

Nigel quickly got out of the car and held the door open for them to exit. After they all got out, Arnav went over to Nigel.

"You're going to pick up Etta now?"

Nigel opened his mouth, when his phone beeped. He looked down at it and sighed. "Seems not, Sir."

Arnav shook his head with a light smirk. "Let me guess, she's still not ready."

"She said my hair isn't done yet, please wait another 15 minutes."

Arnav chuckled. "Then 15 minutes it is."

Nigel nodded and got back in the car, heading back to the CitySpire. Khushi walked over to Arnav, looking in the direction the car went.

"What was that about," she asked.

"Etta."

Khushi scrunched her eyebrows.

"She's taking her time to get ready," he chuckled. "But Nigel's going and the two will be here soon."

Khushi was still confused, and then it all clicked together. "You gave your tickets to them," she said, though it was more of a statement than a question.

Arnav nodded. "They're basically family."

Khushi smiled softly. "That they are."

Arnav wrapped his arm around Khushi's waist and kissed her on top of her head. "Come on, let's get going."

Khushi nodded and they all walked into the Garden. Arhat and Anjali were taken in one direction, leading them to their seats, while Arnav and Khushi went in another, taking them to join with their fellow students. First thing when they entered, Lavanya caught sight of Khushi and came running towards her. Both squealed and jumped around in joy!

"I can't believe we're done with this hell hole," Lavanya shrieked.

"Me too," Khushi squealed.

People around them glanced at them and Arnav simply shook his head.

"Ugh, I can't believe we won't be in classes together anymore," Lavanya pouted.

"Same, but at least we'll still hang out and meet up every now and then."

"True, but I'll miss seeing you're face at 8 in the morning."

"Well, it is a lovely face."

The two giggled and Lavanya nudged her with her hip. 

It wasn't long until commencement began, and the boys were split from the girls. Arnav would be giving a speech, so he was at the front of the line, where he would split off to go sit on stage. The ceremony began and they began to enter and stand in front of their seats. Khushi was excited, not to mention thrilled. But as soon as she entered the arena, something seemed strange. She couldn't quite put her finger on it, but there was a vibe in the air. As she went to her seat, Khushi glanced around, but everything seemed normal. Her eyes met Arnav's, who was already looking at her, and she smiled softly, receiving one from him.

The commencement went as a blur for Khushi. The guests and their speeches went through one ear and out the other when they spoke. She also didn't pay attention when special awards were handed out to some students. The only time she did pay attention was whenever it involved Arnav. She gave her full attention when he gave his speech about always striving to do your best. And when his name was called twice to receive his plaques, she clapped and whistled, feeling mighty proud of her man. Not only did she, but she heard Anjali over all the clapping, causing her to laugh. 

It was when Arnav was called up to receive his second plaque for outstanding achievement, that they had asked him to say a few words.

"Thank you Professor Giles; this award means a lot coming from you, as you were one of the few professors that had my attention in their class."

Everyone chuckled.

Arnav looked down at the plaque. "I've worked hard to get to the position where I am in life. I do admit that I'm not perfect and have done some... silly things. But I fed off the negativity I have had in my life and wanted to become something - to be someone. I also thought of my deceased mother and of her hopes and dreams for me."

At the mentioning of his first wife, Arhat took a deep breath and held his ring.

"For years, I felt lost. Even after the success I achieved, I still felt lost. I never thought I'd get out of it, but then someone found me. They helped me reconnect pieces of myself and became my strength. And that person is you Khushi," he said, looking at her.

Everyone looked in her direction, but Khushi focused on Arnav.

"Thank you for being my strength. Thank you for bringing me into the light," he smiled softly.

Tears pooled into Khushi's eyes and she blew him a kiss, not caring that her face was plastered on the big screen.

"I love you."

This time, Khushi couldn't hold back her tears. 

"I love you, too," she smiled.

Everyone around them clapped and cheered, and Arnav returned to his seat, keeping his eyes on Khushi. She looked at him adoringly, wishing she could run up to the stage and hold onto him for the rest of her life.

*~*

After going on stage and receiving their diplomas, the headmaster declared that they were officially graduates and caps flew into the air. Commencement ended and everyone went to meet with their families. Arnav and Khushi joined together and Anjali came running towards them, giving them a big hug.

"I'm so proud of you guys," she beamed, tears pooling in her eyes.

"Thank you," Khushi smiled.

Arhat came forward and Khushi hugged him as well. When they broke away, Arhat looked at Arnav.

"Congratulations son," he smiled humbly. 

"Thank you," Arnav simply replied.

Arnav caught the look on Khushi's face from the corner of his eyes and knew what she was trying to say. Respecting her wish, Arnav reached out and for the first time in many years, Arnav hugged his father. Arhat was stupefied, as well as Anjali. Khushi smiled softly, happy that Arnav had actually hugged him. It took a moment to recover, but Arhat finally hugged Arnav back. He couldn't remember the last time he had hugged his son, but he was grateful that they were right now. And it gave Arhat hope - hope that maybe one day he and his son would reconnect. As for Arnav, he felt a familiar warmth he hadn't felt in a long time. Emotions had swept over him, but he held himself together. For the first time in many years, he felt that he had his father back.

Anjali stepped over to Khushi and nudged her lightly. "Thank you," she whispered.

Khushi looked at her innocently. "What for?"

"For this," she said, teary-eyed. "I never thought I'd ever see this happen, not in a million years."

Khushi was about to say something, when someone cut her off.

"Oh my!"

Khushi's eyes widened and Arhat felt his son turn to ice.

"Do my eyes deceive me?"

Everyone turned to look at Kaushali, who stood there looking emotional, with her daughter, Kalavati, standing beside her.

"Today truly is a wonderful day," Kaushali smiled, tears pooling in her eyes.

Arnav looked away, as well as Anjali, and while Khushi looked at the mother-daughter pair confusedly, Arhat joined his wife's side.

"Er, Kaushali, how are you..." but Arhat couldn't finish his question.

"Well I understand that the university doesn't give out many tickets," Kalavati answered for her mother, "but it pays to have good connections," she smiled, though Khushi could tell there was more to it.

"I made some calls and voila! We got tickets."

"I was so glad when Kala told me she got them," Kaushali smiled. "I just had to see my son graduate!"

Khushi noticed Arnav slightly cringe when she said my son. 

"We must celebrate!"

"Yes, that we must," Arhat replied, unsure of what else to say.

Truth be told, he just wanted it to be the four of them tonight.

Luckily Anjali came to the rescue. "Well that's sweet of you," she smiled sweetly. "But unfortunately, we made reservations for four," she said with fake sympathy. "If we had known you were coming, we would've made reservations for six, but..." she shrugged.

"Oh... well that's too bad."

"Actually Di, we do have space in our reservation," Arnav said.

Everyone looked at him in shock.

"What," was all Anjali could say.

Arnav nodded. "Mm hmm. It's a reservation for seven."

"Seven," Kalavati said confusedly.

"Why seven, Chote," Anjali asked.

Arnav's eyes focused elsewhere. "We have very special guests joining us."

"Who?"

Before Arnav could answer, Khushi got that strange feeling again. Only this time, it was mixed with a familiarity. She looked in the same direction as Arnav and froze. Walking towards them were her mother, her father, and her brother.

What... the...?

Khushi stopped breathing as her family came and stood before her. Her eyes were wide as she stared at her mother, who looked back at her with tears in her eyes.

"Khushi," her mother whispered.

And in that instant, her mother hugged her. Khushi remained frozen, still in complete shock. Her father hugged the two and kissed the top of Khushi's head. Khushi could feel her father shake from his emotions, but it wasn't enough to shake her off her shock.

Arnav came forward and Khushi's parents pulled away.

"I'm glad you could make it," Arnav said.

Khushi looked up at him in shock.

"Thank you," Khushi's mother said softly.

Khushi looked back at her and her mother met her eyes. She still couldn't believe they were here.

Khushi's brother came forward. "Hey lil sis."

Khushi just looked at him as he came forward and hugged her. "I'm proud of you sis. Congrats."

Khushi finally managed to bring words to her mouth. "Thanks."

"Now then," Arnav began, "shall we go to dinner?"

Chapter Forty Eight

It was around eight when Khushi woke up from her nap. She saw Arnav asleep below her, so she carefully got up and washed up. She made her way downstairs, went out to the terrace to gaze at the bright city around her, and went into thought.

Everything I had ever wished for in life has never happened exactly the way I wanted it. Is that a good thing or is that a bad thing?

I'm in love and I'm happy, all past mishaps aside, but....

She looked down at where she was standing and at the penthouse behind her.

I have done nothing but fallen in love with someone, and have gotten here. What happened to all those plans I had?

She looked back at the city.

Here I am, standing in another person's hard work and achievements, and I'm doing nothing for myself.

"Angel?"

Khushi looked up and found Arnav coming towards her. He kissed her on her cheeks and held her from behind.

"What's wrong angel; I see you're upset."

Khushi sighed and held onto his hands, leaning back onto him. "I haven't done anything in life."

"Angel, your life is just starting-"

"I know but.... Years ago, back when I was in high school, I had set goals for myself. I had planned that when I got into my second year of college, I'd look for internships that would help me for my future career. I thought that by the end of college, I'd already have a job and have no problems. I'd be living on my own, guiding my life the way I wanted it - I'd have my own home and someday move to Dumbo with a nice view of the Hudson. I hoped to achieve so many things, but I'm nowhere near it.

"When Rose was here, going through all the plans, it made me realize that I have come nowhere near to what I had hoped for. But you managed to do so much! For a moment, I became really jealous. You've worked so hard and have gotten yourself to such a good position in life, while I'm just sitting around in all your achievements. ...This isn't what I wanted for myself."

Arnav held her tighter. "I'm sorry if I've distracted you-"

"No, it's not your fault Arnav, you haven't done anything wrong." She cupped his cheek and let him nuzzle her shoulder. "I was off track from the start. I was trying to manage to pay rent, take care of myself, and get my education complete. Everything went downhill when-"

Khushi immediately stopped herself. Arnav looked at her confusedly, Khushi's eyes wide.

"Everything went downhill when what happened," Arnav questioned.

Oh no, Khushi thought.

Arnav turned her so that she'd face him, but Khushi didn't meet his eyes. He cupped her face in his hands and tilted it up.

"What happened angel?"

Khushi pursed her lips and looked down.

I know all of his dark secrets and his dark past... I can't hide my past from him either. But... it's just so hard!

Khushi held his hands. "Arnav... something happened before I met you - years before we met actually... I want to tell you but... I'm just not ready yet."

Arnav didn't say anything for a moment and just looked at Khushi's expression. She wouldn't meet his eyes, looking everywhere else but at him.

"You will tell me though, right," Arnav finally said.

Khushi nodded.

"Okay. Now look at me," he said softly.

Khushi looked up at him.

"Don't ever think for a moment that you are a failure. I see the look on your face and I know that face because I used to make it. You are not a failure, do you understand? So what you didn't get any good internships because you needed to feed and nurture yourself? So what you don't have a proper and good paying job right now? So what if you're not standing on the balcony of your loft in Dumbo? You have everything it takes to make that happen."

Khushi bit her lip to stop her tears.

"You have everything you need - everything you got on your own - to be successful. The only thing you need right now, is confidence and faith in yourself," he said, wiping away the escaped tears off her cheek. "My angel is a strong woman. She helped me, a broken man, to slowly piece myself back together. Now I want her to have faith in herself and to use her own powers, just for her. Understood?"

Khushi nodded.

"Good girl. Now come on, let's get you something to eat."

Khushi shook her head. "I'm not hungry," she said, releasing herself.

"Angel, you barely ate anything today."

"I'm fine, honest-"

"I won't hear another word. You're coming downstairs with me."

"Arnav-"

Arnav bent down and carried her over her shoulder.

"What the- Arnav!"

Arnav chuckled and spanked her. "I quite like this game."

Khushi frowned. "Oh yeah? Lets switch places and see how you like it then," she huffed, blowing her hair out of her face.

Arnav chuckled and led them back into the penthouse. "No need to carry me, angel. You've done enough."

"I'd do it forever."

Arnav paused and Khushi looked up at him. He suddenly lifted her off his shoulder and held her, wrapping her legs around his waist.

"You'd do it forever," Arnav questioned, looking her straight in the eyes.

Khushi smiled and caressed his cheek. "If I don't, who else will," she teased.

Arnav just smiled softly.

"Do you think there's anyone else in this world who understands you as clearly and as perfectly as I do," Khushi asked.

Arnav shook his head. "They would have ran away, maybe even making a trip around the world by now, ready for their second."

Khushi saw the sadness in his eyes and she cupped his face. "Well I'm not anyone else."

"Thank goodness you aren't. I don't know what I would have done if you were."

Khushi smiled and kissed him softly. "I love you Mr. Controlling," she teased.

"That I am," Arnav smiled softly. "Promise me something?"

"And what is that?"

"You'll never leave me, will you?"

Khushi just looked at him, knowing that it was his insecurities speaking right now.

"Never," Khushi promised. "It would take very strong forces to separate me from you."

"Even after everything?"

"Even after everything. You're mine Mr. Controlling, and I hope you understand that," she grinned, trying to lighten up the mood.

"Yes ma'am, I do."

"Good. Now let me sleep," she said, laying her head on his shoulders.

"Oh no you don't; first we're eating," he said, placing his fingers through her hair.

"No," Khushi whined.

"Eat - we have a big day ahead of us tomorrow."

Khushi groaned. "Oh yes, the end of hell!"

Arnav chuckled and took her downstairs. "Yes, the end of hell."

"I don't get why you didn't drop out, I mean you're all set."

"Anything can happen, angel. Anything can happen. Plus it was my mother's dream to see me graduate from college."

Arnav placed Khushi on the counter top and she looked at him.

"You're such a good son," Khushi smiled softly.

"Now I am," he smiled sadly.

"Hush, I don't want to hear that."

Arnav smiled as he prepared a plateful of spaghetti.

"Where's Etta," Khushi asked, glancing around.

"I let her off early tonight - it's date night."

"Date night? Etta's going on a date? With who?"

"Nigel."

Khushi's eyes widened. "With Nigel? Since when were they dating?"

"About four to five years I think?"

"How come I didn't know about this?"

Arnav stood before her to hand her the plate, a fork, and a spoon. "Cause I keep you busy," he smirked.

Khushi rolled her eyes. "Honestly, how could I have been blind about this? And don't get another plate, this is way too much for me."

Arnav frowned. "Angel-"

"Please? This is honestly way too much. Come here and we'll share - I'll feed you."

Arnav moved in between Khushi's legs and held the plate. Khushi spun some spaghetti around the fork, using the spoon as the backdrop, and fed him.

"I'm surprised you're even using the spoon" Arnav said after he swallowed.

"Have you seen how properly you eat," Khushi said, cocking her eyebrow. "Why the hell does anyone need a spoon for spaghetti? Just spin the fork on the damn plate," and she rolled her eyes.

Arnav chuckled as she placed another forkful in his mouth. "Eat."

Khushi gasped mockingly. "Why Mr. Arnav Singh Raizada, are you speaking with food in your mouth? You, a prestigious businessman?"

Arnav swallowed. "Eat," he grinned.

Khushi smiled as she took a forkful in her mouth.

They continued with their small talk, teasing here and there. Once they were done, Arnav put the dish and utensils in the dishwasher.

"Do you know how to use the dishwasher," Khushi teased, wiping her mouth.

"As a matter of fact, I do," Arnav smirked, pouring them some glasses of wine.

He handed her a glass and the two clinked their glasses together.

"To the end of hell," Khushi toasted.

"To the end of hell," Arnav grinned.

*~*

"Thank fucking goodness!"

Khushi looked at herself in the mirror, wearing a white dress accessorized with a red belt, and a black commencement cap. She held her commencement gown in her hand and she took a deep breath.

Arnav chuckled and held her from behind. "You're very happy," he smiled, nuzzling her below her ear.

"That I am," Khushi smiled.

Arnav looked at her through the mirror. "My angel is graduating - I'm proud of her."

"Why thank you, Sir."

Arnav cocked his eyebrow. "Angel," he warned.

Khushi turned in his hold and wrapped her arms around his neck. "Let's celebrate together tonight - alone."

Arnav smirked devilishly and Khushi felt her core ache.

"Does my angel want me to take her right here and right now," Arnav teased.

"Fast and quick," Khushi panted.

"Angel," he mocked disapprovingly.

"What," she said innocently. "It's your idea," she pouted.

Arnav chuckled and Khushi continued to pout.

He glanced down at his Rolex. "Considering the amount of time we have... we just might be able to," he winked, looking back up at her.

Khushi bit her lip, the ache in between her thighs increasing.

"And as for tonight," he said, backing Khushi up against the wall, "it might not happen."

"Why," Khushi pouted.

"Don't forget you invited Di and and my dad," Arnav frowned.

Khushi smiled. She had planned this for a while now, giving her tickets to Aryan and Anjali. Knowing Arnav's distaste towards his steps, Khushi didn't say anything to Kaushali and Kalavati to respect Arnav.

"You're welcome," Khushi grinned.

"Think it through - knowing my Di, we'll be spending time with them till three in the morning." He picked Khushi up, wrapping her legs around his waist. "So what's it going to be," he smirked.

"Hmm," Khushi pretended to debate. "Dinner with your family... or mind-blowing, knee-trembling, unable-to-walk-for-a-week sex?"

Arnav grinned roguishly and moved his hips, Khushi gasping at the feel of his erection.

"Choose wisely," he grinned.

Khushi reached into his pocket and found an ever-present condom in his pocket. "You had intentions," Khushi stated, cocking her eyebrow.

"Always prepared," he winked.

Khushi undid his pants and loosened her hold on him so Arnav could lower his pants.

"Always prepared," Khushi confirmed, brushing her dress aside to reveal that she wasn't wearing anything underneath.

Arnav grinned and kissed her. "A start of a new beginning."

Khushi grinned and rolled the condom over his length. "To a new beginning."

Arnav pushed himself within her. "To a new beginning indeed."

Chapter Forty Seven

Arnav drove to the CitySpire to drop Khushi off. He drove into the basement garage and called Nigel to let him know that he was here.

"Today was rather interesting," Khushi sighed.

"That's one way of putting it."

Khushi smiled. "Next time, warn me instead of kidnapping me."

Arnav chuckled. "You honestly thought I was being threatened?"

"Yes! I mean why would anyone want to kidnap a nobody like me?"

"You are not a nobody."

"Well then I'm the girlfriend of a loaded guy," Khushi frowned.

Arnav chuckled. "That's one way of putting it."

Khushi reached out and entangled her fingers in his hair. "If anything ever happened to you, or if anyone ever threatened you... the thought of it scares me."

Arnav took her hand and kissed the palm of it. "I'm completely safe angel. No more harm done to me; just the scars of before."

Khushi’s expression saddened. "Arnav," she said softly.

Nigel came into view and Arnav got out of the car. Khushi followed out and joined Arnav by his side. He handed the keys to the BMW back to Nigel.

"I hope Sir's tasks were a success," he said.

Khushi rolled her eyes. "You have no idea."

Arnav chuckled. "The Cadillac?"

"I'll bring it forward," Nigel nodded.

Arnav nodded and Nigel went to get Arnav's car.

Arnav turned to Khushi. "You're in charge of the penthouse's makeover."

Khushi's eyes widened. "I'm sorry, I think I heard wrong. It sounded like you said you wanted me in charge of redecorating the penthouse."

"Nope, you heard me correctly," he smiled.

Khushi's jaw dropped. "Me? Why me? It's your place!"

"I want your touch all over it."

That made Khushi smile, not to mention blush a bit.

"I had the penthouse redone when I first bought it to suit the type of person I was. I'm changed man now, so why not let who's influenced me, influence the place?"

Khushi shook her head. "That's sweet Arnav, it really is, but I couldn't even decide what color paint I wanted on my own walls! I had to do eenie meenie miney mo at the hardware store!"

Arnav chuckled. "You'll be fine! The designer has some plans, now you just have to okay it or say to revisit and revise."

Khushi chewed on her lower lip. "Are you sure?"

Arnav kissed her forehead. "Absolutely."

"Okay," Khushi muttered while Arnav's lips lingered on her forehead. "But if it turns out ugly, or you don't like it, you can't blame me."

Arnav only laughed and Khushi frowned.

"I'm serious! You have to be here!"

"Angel-"

"Please? It is still your place-"

"I'd say it's our place," he winked.

Khushi blushed. "Still," she said stubbornly. "I want you here," she pouted.

Arnav cupped her cheeks. "If my angel is insisting it, then fine, I'll be there."

Khushi smiled. "Really?"

"Yes. But first I have some things to take care of at work. I'll be back in about half an hour."

"Okay, thank you," and she pecked him on his lips.

"Is that how you thank a man who's abandoning work for you," Arnav teased.

"You abandoned work when you kidnapped me," Khushi said, placing her hands at her hips.

Arnav chuckled and kissed her. Nigel came forward with the Cadillac and got out of the car. Arnav gave Khushi one more kiss on her forehead before gracefully sliding into his car.

"Half an hour," Khushi admonished.

"Half an hour angel," Arnav smiled, and he pulled away.

Khushi waved as he drove out of the garage. When the car was out of sight, she turned to Nigel with a frown.

"You were in on his plans," she stated.

For the first time, Khushi saw him redden. "While you were in the store, Mr. Raizada called and came over to switch places."

Khushi shook her head. "What a kid," she muttered.

"He's happy."

Khushi looked up at him. "You think so?"

Nigel nodded. "Very happy thanks to you," he smiled softly.

It made Khushi smile to know that she was the reason behind his smiles. She looked down at her phone and saw that she was late, so she turned to the elevators. But then she immediately turned back around and took Nigel's hat off her head and put it on his.

"I love your hat," Khushi beamed.

Again, Nigel blushed. "Er, thank you Ms. Gupta."

Khushi smiled and turned back to the elevators,  put the code in, and the elevator took her up to the 73rd floor. She saw the doors opened, Etta talking to a woman.

"Khushi," Etta said when she saw her.

The woman turned and looked at Khushi. Khushi had no clue who she was and entered the apartment, shutting the doors behind her.

"Hey Etta," Khushi smiled.

"Good afternoon," Etta smiled. "This is Ms. Rose Anne Williams, the interior designer."

"Oh!" Khushi went forward and held her hand out. "I'm Khushi. Khushi Kumari Gupta."

"Pleasure to meet you Ms. Gupta," Rose smiled.

"Please, call me Khushi."

Khushi brought her in and they went to the living room.

"It's kind of overwhelming being in this room," Rose said.

Khushi scoffed lightly. "Tell me about it. I don’t think I'll ever get used to it."

Rose smiled.

"Can I get you something to drink? Some wine?"

"Sure."

"Anything in mind?"

"Surprise me," she smiled.

Khushi excused herself and went to the kitchen. She got out a bottle of chardonnay and poured it into two flute glasses. She went back into the living room and found Rose laying out her plans on the coffee table.

"They look amazing," Khushi said as she came over and sat down, handing Rose her wine.

"Thank you," Rose smiled.

"So, shall we get started?"

"Sure! I'll start of with the bottom floor and work my way up."

The two ladies went on with their conversation. Khushi was really impressed by Rose's ideas. The way Khushi thought of it was making the penthouse more... family-oriented. It puzzled Khushi, making her wonder if Arnav planned to sell the penthouse someday. Khushi also realized how expensive all of it would be and it bothered her. Arnav had all this money and she was nowhere close with what she had.

I have to talk to Arnav about this, Khushi said in her head as she looked at the furniture Rose had in mind for the media room.

Before she even saw him, she felt him, and Khushi looked up to see Arnav entering the room.

"Hello Rose," Arnav greeted.

"Arnav, pleasure to work with you again," she smiled, shaking hands with him.

Khushi glanced at Rose, curious to see if Rose was affected by Arnav and his smile, but she seemed perfectly fine.

Arnav went to Khushi's side and kissed her. "Half hour," he whispered.

Khushi smiled softly. "Thank you."

"Anything for you angel," and he kissed the palm of her hand. He faced Rose. "So, let's see what you've got."

"We're basically going through the schematics and definitely removing the bachelor look. The living room, media room, dining room, and kitchen are settled. The spare bedrooms upstairs will be neutral, and Khushi wanted to go through the master bedroom with you."

Arnav nodded. "Sure."

"So instead of the red with the white, I'm thinking of changing it to black's, white's, and gray's. With all the windows and the lighting the room receives, it'll be perfect!"

"What about the bed," Arnav asked, looking at the plans. "It needs to be big."

Khushi slightly blushed at his request.

"Of course, just like the present one."

"Make it bigger."

Khushi's eyes widened. "Bigger?"

Arnav looked at her. "Bigger," he winked.

Khushi gaped at him. "There won't be any space left in the room!"

Rose looked at the floor plan. "Hmm... I could make it bigger... it would fit," she confirmed.

"Great," Arnav said. "Postures or no?"

"I'd suggest no, so...."

At the sound of Rose's tone, Khushi looked at her and then at Arnav.

Does she know, Khushi wondered.

Arnav continued to look at the plans. "No problem. Custom-made right?"

"Always."

"Perfect. I'll have it customized myself."

"Yourself," Khushi questioned.

Arnav winked at her.

What is he, up to?

They went over the rest of the plans and were soon complete.

"So I'll just make the edits, and I'll contact you," Rose said, gathering her things.

"Of course," Arnav smiled.

Everyone stood up and Rose shook hands with Arnav and Khushi. Etta came in and Arnav had her lead her out. As soon as Etta and Rose left the room, Khushi turned to Arnav.

"Does she know," she asked.

Khushi didn't have to explain because Arnav knew what she meant.

"Yes," he replied.

"Was she...?"

Arnav shook his head. "She's a dominatrix and she's interested in women."

Khushi's eyes widened and she gulped. "Oh my gosh," she breathed.

"She's a good friend of mine. We've been friends for a couple of years."

"Does she currently have a sub?"

Arnav nodded. "But she told me she's mad at her, so she's ignoring her, the poor thing," Arnav said, shaking his head.

"Why?"

"Rose's current sub is at home, staring longingly out the window, waiting for her Mistress to return, but even when she does, her Mistress will completely ignore her because she defied her."

"Aww... that's actually kind of sad. Would you ever do that to me?"

Arnav sighed and caressed her cheek. "Never."

Khushi smiled softly.

"Come, let's get you something to eat."

Khushi nodded, feeling her stomach grumble. They went into the kitchen and Etta prepared some paninis for the two.

"Since the penthouse will be under construction over the summer, where will you go," Khushi asked as they sat down.

"We are going away to Madrid."

I'm not, you are. "Madrid? As in Madrid, Spain?"

Arnav nodded. "Then we're going to Dubai."

"Dubai? Just for the summer? Those are some plans you got for yourself."

Arnav frowned as Etta put the paninis down. "We're both going."

"Arnav, I can't afford that," Khushi said lightly.

Arnav gaped. "You're not paying for anything!"

Khushi tilted her head. "Arnav-"

"We're going. Done."

Khushi gaped. "Arnav, I can't go anywhere, I need to find a job over the summer. I've applied to some places and-"

"Work at AR."

Khushi frowned. "Arnav, no."

"Work at AR."

"Arnav, stop."

"Work at AR."

"No."

"Work-

"Arnav-"

"At-"

"No-"

"AR."

"No, Arnav! I want to get a job on my own."

"Angel-"

"Arnav please? I want to make it on my own."

"Then wait till after the summer. I want you with me."

Khushi sighed. "I understand, but Arnav I have to do this. This summer. I have to make a living!"

"No you don't, you're living with me."

Khushi shook her head, deciding to debate on that another time. "I want to work."

"No."

Now Khushi was annoyed. "Arnav, I want to and I will work."

"I want you here at home with me, so no."

Khushi was now very irritated. "That's it. I'm done," and she got up and left the room.

"Angel come back here," Arnav hollered, his voice not so far behind.

But Khushi was stubborn and continued to stomp away. She was almost at the stairs, when Arnav picked her off her feet and placed her over his shoulder.

"You're not going anywhere and I won't let you."

Khushi caught hold of his waist. "Arnav, relax! I was going to my room-"

"Our room!"

"No, my room!"

Arnav spanked her. "You're going away with me!"

"I can't afford it!"

"You're never paying for another thing in your life again."

"Arnav! Be reasonable!"

Arnav spanked her again.

"Hey," Khushi exclaimed, and she spanked him.

Arnav spanked her again. "Don't play around with me angel."

"I'm being serious! Now let me down!"

"No."

Khushi groaned and looked up to see where Arnav had taken them. As he walked into the gallery of his bedroom, Khushi groaned and spanked him again. 

Arnav entered the bedroom and placed Khushi on the bed, straddling her waist.

"Let me go," Khushi exclaimed. 

Arnav caught her wrists and pinned them above her head, causing Khushi to gasp.

"You and I are going away this summer. Together. We're going to take my private jet to Madrid, and then to Dubai. Is that understood?"

"Arnav-"

"Is that understood?"

"Yes but-"

"Good. You won't be working this summer and you will start working after we come back from our trip."

"But-"

"Is that understood? "

Khushi frowned. "No, not at all."

"Then I'll have to make you understand."

Khushi scrunched her eyebrows. "Make me?"

Arnav leaned forward, moving in between her legs. "Make you," and he rolled his hips.

Khushi gasped, feeling his erection, and completely shocked by his motive.

"You are not going to fuck me into agreement," Khushi gasped.

"Then agree."

"Arnav, this is ridiculous! I will not be swayed around by your godly fucking-"

"Godly fucking?"

Khushi crimsoned. "I won't let you persuade me like that."

"And why is that?"

"Cause I'll end up agreeing!"

Arnav cocked his eyebrow. 

"Don't give me that look, you know your affect on me!"

Arnav chuckled. 

Khushi frowned. "Why are you so impossible?"

"Me? You're the impossible one."

"Am not!" Khushi groaned. "You're impossible! Let me go to my room, I need a nap," Khushi huffed, trying to get up.

Arnav held her down. "You're sleeping here and staying here."

"And if I don't want to?"

Arnav tilted his head. "Don't push it angel."

"I'm not pushing anything, you are!"

"Angel," he warned.

Khushi sighed, making Arnav think she had let it drop. When he let his guard down, Khushi pushed him off and tried to escape. But Arnav caught her by her wrist, and both came crashing back down.

"You're not going anywhere," Arnav huffed.

"I'm going and there's nothing you can do about it," Khushi huffed, blowing her hair out of her face.

The two huffed away, not removing their eyes from the other. Their breaths met, and tickled and twined. A yearning grew between them and without wasting another second, their lips came crashing together. The two kissed away, tugging at each other's hair and clothes, irritated by the other's pursuit.

"Please be reasonable," Khushi said softly in between their kisses. "I want to do things on my own. It's what I'm used to. I don't want things handed over."

Arnav broke away and looked down at her pleading eyes. He caressed her face and turned them over, laying her on his chest.

"I just want to give you everything," Arnav whispered. "I would give you the world if I could."

"I know, and that's sweet of you," she said softly, clutching onto him. "But I want to do things on my own, just like I have been for the past few years."

Arnav didn't say anything, but that didn't mean that he had agreed. He wondered what it could have been that suddenly made Khushi so worried about making money, and he realized that Rose's plans must have triggered it. With the whole penthouse under construction, Khushi must have thought about the money that would be put towards the project and knowing Khushi well enough, he must've thought about the "two different worlds" they were from.

Arnav glanced down at Khushi and saw that she had fallen asleep. He slowly ran his fingers through her hair and sighed.

You're not going anywhere angel. Not after what I've got planned.

Chapter Forty Six

Nigel opened the door and Khushi got out of the car. She quickly rushed into UPS and had her package sent out. Khushi had just gotten out the store when her phone rang. Khushi couldn't help but to smirk when she saw Arnav's calling.

"Good afternoon Mr. Raizada," Khushi beamed.

"Playing innocent won't help you angel," he replied.

Khushi looked out to the street to check if there was a car coming and crossed the street. "Playing innocent? Whatever do you mean?"

"Angel," he warned.

Khushi got in the car and it pulled into traffic. "Don't angel me. I've done nothing wrong and you know it. Now I may have, let's say, put you in a situation," Khushi smirked, "but that's about it. And with the last text I sent you, well, I'm proud of myself. So proud, I'm hugging myself again," she said, doing just that. "Now you tell me Mr. Arnav Singh Raizada, what are you going to do about it?"

The car came to a halt and Khushi looked up. She had no idea where they were, though it looked like a run-down area by the water.

"Uh Nigel... where are we," Khushi asked, fear beginning to surface.

Instead of responding, he got out of the car and went around to open the door for Khushi. Khushi just blinked, fear taking over her. Her phone beeped and she looked at it to see that her call had ended because she had no bars. 

With a gulp, Khushi stepped out of the car. Just as she turned to look at Nigel, he grabbed her by her wrist and pulled her along with him.

"What the-? Nigel, where are you taking me," Khushi exclaimed.

She got no response and continued to be pulled along.

Oh my god, Khushi thought. Why has Nigel gone rogue? Where the hell is he taking me? Who is he taking me to? Why kidnap me? I've done nothing wrong- oh my god, am I being held hostage? Are there people after Arnav? Please god, no, please let Arnav be safe!

Khushi got pulled over to the side and was pushed up against a cargo holder.

"Nigel, what the hell are you-?"

Khushi's eyes widened. It wasn't Nigel who had dragged her out here - it was Arnav.

"What the fuck Arnav!" She punched him in the stomach, but it had no affect on him. "What the actual fuck is wrong with you?"

Arnav didn't say anything and just looked at her.

"You fucking scared me to death," she exclaimed, tears threatening to fall. "I thought someone was after you! I thought you were being threatened for money, so they kidnapped me for hostage! For fuck's sake do you have any idea what kind of thoughts ran through my head! If anything happened to you.... Who the hell does something like this?! And why are you smiling?!"

Arnav didn't say anything and continued to smile softly.

"This isn't funny Arnav! Why did you do this? Is this payback for the picture I sent you? Well this is far worse than what I did! In fact, it's beyond! You-"

Arnav cut her off with a kiss, leaving Khushi looking at him with wide eyes. When he pulled away, he leaned his forehead against hers, caressing her cheek in his hand.

"I love you," Arnav breathed.

Khushi was confused, but she replied anyway. "I love you too Arnav, but what you did was ridiculous," she said softly, wrapping her arms around his neck to hug him. "Why did you do it?"

Arnav sighed and buried his face in the crook of her neck. "I had a thought earlier and I... I just ended up doing this."

"Why?"

"I wanted to see you, so I called Nigel up while you were at UPS and I quickly drove over and switched places with him."

"You're lucky he wears a chauffeur's hat," Khushi muttered.

Arnav chuckled and his breath tickled Khushi along her neck.

"What were you thinking earlier," Khushi asked.

Arnav pulled back. "That thought is for another day, another time."

Khushi frowned. "Arnav, you can't just tell me you had a thought, kidnap me, and then leave me hanging."

"No, but it's a start. I want you to get to know me."

Khushi caressed his face. "Well if you ask me, I'd say I'm the only person who truly knows you."

"True, but not everything about me."

Khushi scrunched her eyebrows. "What do you mean?"

Arnav held her hand. "Follow me."

Khushi nodded and she followed beside Arnav. They walked around a bit, but Khushi had no idea where they were, nor why they were here.

What does this place have to do with him, Khushi wondered.

Arnav came to a halt and so did Khushi.

"Arnav, what are we doing here," Khushi asked softly.

Arnav glanced around at the place, nothing but empty shipping cargo holders around. "A part of my past is here. Of who I used to be."

Arnav turned to look at her. "I used to bring my submissives here."

Khushi's eyes widened and she quickly tried to hide it. "Here," she said, though she ended up stuttering.

"Yes, here."

Arnav released her hand and walked around. "I used to bring some of my submissives here - those who could handle it and-slash-or wanted it."

"What would you do to them?"

Arnav went over to one of the cargo holders and opened it up. Khushi went behind him and looked inside the massive, empty holder.

"I'd keep them in here," Arnav simply said.

Khushi looked at him with wide eyes.

"They'd stay here, night after night, with food and water if provided, naked."

"Naked?"

Arnav nodded. "It's what they loved. To be treated like a well, taken-cared pet."

Khushi nodded in acknowledgement and looked at the holder. She gulped and stepped in. She went to the middle and looked around, wondering what it would have been like to stay here night after night.

"To tell you the truth, I never understood why people like stuff like this," she said, waving her hand to gesture her surroundings. "I've seen a lot of stuff on Tumblr where Dominant's have kept their submissives in cages, or in this case, cargo holders. But I never truly understood it."

"It's mostly their fantasy. Submissives know what they want and the type of person they want to be dominated by. They know how they want to play, and if they want to be caged, or be treated as a pet, they'll find someone to do just that."

Khushi nodded in acknowledgement.

"The last submissive I had in here wanted this. When we first met, she told me she had to have that. She wanted to be treated as if she were my pet because that's how she liked to be dominated. The way she thought of it was that she was a little kitty."

"A kitty?"

Arnav nodded. "She even had a tail."

"A tail!"

"Yup. It's a butt plug with a furry tail."

Khushi couldn't help but to imagine herself naked with a tail, wearing a headband with cat-like ears.

She snapped out of thought. "What was it like with her?"

Arnav shrugged. "Typical. The day would start and I'd come here around 9 in the morning. She'd have to be awake, and she had to be trained to wake up at that time on her own without an alarm clock. I'd come in and give her breakfast. While she ate... I would pet her."

Khushi pursed her lips, understanding that by petting, it was something way beyond how you'd pet a kitty.

"How did that work?"

"Since she thought of herself as a kitty, she'd be given milk for breakfast. If she didn't finish by the time she..."

Khushi understood what he was trying to say.

"Then she wouldn't get anything to eat or drink for lunch. She'd stay trapped in here, since it was always kept locked unless I was here, and like a cat, she'd wander around the holder and would take kitty naps."

"When would you see her again?"

"Well, if she had finished her breakfast, I'd leave her lunch before leaving to work. And if she didn't, then I would just leave. I wouldn't come back till 6, unless I had work to deal with. When I would go to see her at that time, I would... relieve my stress," he said in a low voice.

Khushi pursed her lips and looked down.

"If she behaved, then she would be rewarded. If she didn't, then she would get punished."

"How did you punish her?"

"I wouldn't see her for a whole day. If I was in a good mood, I'd leave her a little something to eat and drink. Otherwise, she was on her own."

Khushi looked around the holder again. "What if she had to... you know... number one or two," Khushi said awkwardly.

"She had a litter box."

Khushi's eyes widened.

"But she wasn't really allowed to use it. When I would come to see her, I'd take her out and she'd go take care of her own business. But if she went before I came, she'd always have this guilty look on her face and she would get punished after she got cleaned up."

"Holy crap," Khushi breathed.

"It was her responsibility to take care of her mess. She had disobeyed me and she would be reminded of it while she took care of it."

Khushi held herself. 'What happened to her?"

"I gave her away."

Khushi scrunched her eyebrows. "What do you mean by gave her away?"

"I didn't want her anymore so I gave her away to someone I knew. He's the one who hooked me up with this place."

"What happened to them?"

"They got married and she's still his pet."

Khushi's mouth formed into an O.

"They're very happy. They're, and I quote, expecting our own litter of kitties."

"She's pregnant?"

Arnav nodded.

"What are they going to do after they have the baby?"

"That's up to them."

Khushi nodded in acknowledgement, then looked at him. "Why are you telling me all of this," she said softly.

"This way you'll know me."

"I already know you."

"Not all of me."

Khushi stepped forward and went over to Arnav. "I know enough."

"It's not enough for me."

Khushi tilted her head. "What do you expect to get out of this?"

Arnav didn't say anything and looked down.

"Arnav I've learned more about you than anyone else in the world. I don't need to know what you've done to your submissives in the past to understand you. Because I know that its what happened before all of this, that has made you who you are today." She caressed his face and tilted it up. "I love you and accept you just the way you are. I accept your past and I accept with what you've done. As long as you don't keep me trapped in here, I'm good," she smiled, trying to lighten up the mood.

"That's the thing Khushi - I could never do this to you." He reached out and cupped her face in his hands. "Ever since I realized that I loved you, I couldn't think of doing anything else, but loving you."

Khushi felt her heart melt.

"All this stuff I used to do - I don't need it anymore. The mere thought of doing this to you scares me. I don't want you to leave me. Ever again."

"And I won't," Khushi smiled softly. "You could tell me everything you've done with your past submissives, and it won't do a thing. Because I know that the difference between me and them is that you love me. You cared for them, yes, but of all the women you've met in your life, you've only loved me."

"And I always will."

Khushi smiled softly and kissed him. Arnav wrapped his arms around her, placing his hands on her back. Khushi entangled her fingers in his hair and sighed in content.

Arnav pulled away. "Let's get you home."

Khushi pulled back. "Oh crap, what time is it? The designer is coming today! And why didn't you tell me about it?"

"I'm sorry, I totally forgot. I've been... preoccupied."

"All this work will make you grow old quicker," Khushi teased.

Arnav smirked. "Let's go, young lady."

Khushi chuckled and followed Arnav back to the car. She took of his hat and placed it on her head.

"I have to admit, you look hot with Nigel's hat," Khushi said.

"Do I need to change Nigel's uniform?"

Khushi chuckled and sat in the passengers seat. "Nope. It just looks good on you."

"Me as a chauffeur - am I to assume role play?"

"Oh my god! Arnav," and she playfully hit his shoulder.

Arnav just chuckled, his boy-ish charm on display.

"By the way, why are you in a black suit? I'm pretty sure you were in navy blue this morning."

Arnav started up the car and drove. "I had to change. I had a little incident."

"Oh? Like what?"

Arnav reached out and held her hand. "Let's just say that the picture you sent me, did things to me."

Khushi patted herself on her shoulder. "Job well done Ms. Gupta."

Arnav glanced at her and Khushi noticed a gleam in his eyes. It instantly went away and Khushi couldn't help but to wonder what that was.

What was he thinking about?

Chapter Forty Five

Khushi taped up a cardboard box and plopped down in Arnav's chair with a sigh. "No more textbook rentals ever again!"

As it was finals week, Khushi was finally free from all the torture, having just finished her last test. As soon as she got back to the penthouse, she rounded up all her books in Arnav's home office, printed out receipts, and was ready to ship all her books back.

Khushi leaned forward and put her arms over the box. "If I see another textbook, I'm gonna vomit on it."

Etta came walking in with a duster. "Should I be worried," she chuckled.

"So long as I don't see one," Khushi winked.

"Well Mr. Raizada's are gone, so you won't see his. If you'd like, I can have Nigel take the box to UPS."

"Would he mind? I remember seeing on Arnav's calendar that an interior designer is coming?"

"Oh yes! Mr. Raizada must have forgotten! He had contracted a designer to redo the penthouse over the summer."

Khushi scrunched her eyebrows. "Hmm, he never mentioned it to me."

"He must have forgotten. After all there is only one thing, or rather one person on his mind these days," she smiled softly.

Khushi looked down, blushing softly. "So there's gonna be work done here over the summer."

"Yes, and I will make sure everything goes well."

"It's a good thing this place is big. That way I can avoid all that smell from paint and what not, holing myself up in a room. It makes me nauseous! The thought of it makes me wanna puke."

Etta chuckled. "You won't have to camp out in a room. Mr. Raizada probably won't be here."

Khushi tilted her head with a frown. "Really?"

Etta put her duster down and went over to Khushi. "He hasn't said anything?"

Khushi shook her head.

"Then maybe he has a surprise trip planned," Etta gushed.

Khushi took that into thought. A trip? How come he hasn't said anything about any of this?

"He's probably waiting for the right moment," Etta smiled.

"Well," Khushi sighed, glancing at the clock, "until then, considering all the time I've got till the designer comes over, I should drop off these books myself."

Etta smiled with a nod. "I'll put the box on the table in the foyer and let Nigel know to keep the car ready."

"Thanks Etta," Khushi smiled, heading to the door. "Can you believe how hot it is today. I just might faint," Khushi chuckled.

Etta chuckled. "All this talk about fainting and puking reminds me of when my sister got pregnant."

Khushi had just stepped out of the library when Etta said that, causing Khushi to pause. She looked back at Etta, but she was cleaning up Arnav's desk. Khushi turned away and quietly headed back to Arnav's room.

Vomiting? Fainting? Pregnant, Khushi exclaimed in her head.

Khushi paused in the gallery and looked into the bedroom. She thought of the night before and of other intimate moments with Arnav.

I can't be pregnant, Khushi thought. I've still got commencement and a career to start!

She went into the room and sat on the bed.

I am not pregnant! I'm just letting things get to my head! Arnav and I have always been careful, so there is no way!

Needing a distraction and a clear mind, Khushi took a quick shower. She got out of the shower and went over to the mirror to blow dry her hair. Just as she finished drying her hair, she saw her phone light up, playing the Kim Possible sound, alerting her of a text. She picked it up and saw that there was a text from Arnav.

I'm in a meeting with idiots

Please come here and distract me

Khushi smiled.

I'm not sure of what I could do xoxo

She headed to the dressing room to pick out a dress when her phone pinged.

I can think of a few ways ;)

She shook her head. Oh Arnav!

And what's that? xoxo

A response came immediately.

Come and find out ;)

Oh? Khushi decided to play a little game.

I'd love to cum but I have some things I need to take care of first xoxo

That should do the trick.

I know what you're trying to do angel

"Trying to do"? I've done nothing Sir, honest xoxo

Playing games won't help you angel

Is that so?

Playing games? Me? I would do no such thing! I'm just, let's say, tied up, with a few things xoxo

Khushi beamed as she sent the text. And as she expected, her phone pinged immediately.

Angel...

Khushi giggled as she let go of her towel, letting it drop to the floor.

What? *saying it innocently* Now stop bothering me, I have some errands to run and if you keep bothering me, I'll end up standing here all day, wet with no clothes on xoxo

"There we go. That ought to do it," Khushi smiled to herself.

She looked at her dresses and picked out a sleeveless royal blue shift dress. It was light enough for the hot weather, yet casual for when the designer came. Just as Khushi had unzipped the dress, her phone chimed.

I'm in a meeting with 6 other men here, and I'm hard as fuck!

Khushi burst into laughter, picturing the scenario in her head - Arnav sitting uncomfortably at the head of the table in the conference room, with 6 old men blabbing away in front of him.

Aww, poor you! xoxo

I keep having to readjust myself thanks to the picture in my head! Good thing everyone else is busy howling at each other

As for you angel, you're in trouble

Khushi grinned as she made her way to the bathroom and picked up the lotion. She went back into the dressing room and texted Arnav back.

Me? Whatever did I do? All I said was that I've got errands to run and that I'm naked. Now stop bothering me, I have to put lotion on xoxo

Fuck! Why are you torturing me?!

Khushi grinned, putting lotion on her arms.

Moi? xoxo

-_-

Khushi laughed, now focusing on her body.

Arnav, I'm only telling you what I'm currently doing. That's not a crime. I mean is it wrong of me to tell you that I'm putting lotion on my legs?

Khushi put her phone down and felt proud of herself. That definitely should do the trick!

Just as Khushi finished putting lotion on, her phone rang, displaying Arnav's picture. Khushi made the smile on her face disappear and tried to seem casual before she picked up the phone.

"Hello," she said casually.

"What the hell are you trying to do to me? I just had readjust myself again!"

"Um, aren't you in a meeting?"

"I excused myself to get a hold on you!"

"A hold on moi? Whatever for," she asked innocently.

"Angel," he said in a warning tone.

"And like an angel, I'm innocent! Not my fault if you can't take the facts like they are."

"Angel-"

"I mean come on Arnav! All I said was that rubbing lotion on my thighs. Is that so wrong," she said innocently.

Arnav took a sharp breath. "Angel, I know what you're trying to do-"

"And that would be nothing! Now hurry up, I need to put my clothes on so I can go out," she said, breaking into a smile, knowing how badly that would affect Arnav.

Arnav let out his breath. "You are going nowhere but here. My office. Now!"

Khushi sighed. "Sorry m'darling, can't. Errands to run, remember?"

"Angel I mean it-"

"Gotta go love, stores won't stay open forever. I love you, bye," and she hung up on him.

Feeling proud of herself, she gave herself a hug, patting herself on her shoulder.

That was just too fun!

Just as Khushi was about to put on her dress, her phone chimed.

This isn't over angel -_-

Khushi pursed her lips and an idea flew into her head. 

Once her plan was complete, Khushi headed out, holding the box full of textbooks in her hands. Nigel was waiting at the car and just as Khushi sat down, she responded to Arnav's text and sighed in content, smiling proudly.

Arnav's meeting had ended and he was finally alone, at his desk. His secretary had just gone off to lunch, leaving Arnav alone for a while. He took off his jacket and tie, and undid the top two buttons of his shirt. He decided to call Khushi again so he could finish up what she had started. Just as he picked up his phone it vibrated, displaying that he had gotten a text. He unlocked his phone and saw that it was a text from Khushi.

You're right, it isn't... and it never will be ;) xoxo

There was an image attached and Arnav's eyes widened. He tapped on it to enlarge it and his eyes almost fell out. The picture was of Khushi, sitting on a chair in the dressing room, her long hair falling in front of her shoulders, wearing nothing but a pair of black pumps, with her legs spread wide, one hand holding her phone to take the picture, while the other held the chair in between her legs, covering her most feminine part. 

Arnav let out a sharp breath as he stared at the picture. Although none of her intimate parts were exposed, Arnav felt his cock hardening, growing thick and heavy. He quickly rushed into the en-suite bathroom and placed his phone on the counter. He couldn't stand it another second and quickly undid his pants so he could relieve himself. His hand pumped over his cock while he screwed his eyes shut. He could visualize Khushi in front of him, sitting on a chair, touching herself, teasing him. Arnav grunted as he violently jerked his cock, unable to get that visual out of his head. Because of that, it didn't take long and he came violently, spurting out onto his clothes.

"Fuck," Arnav roared.

Arnav breathed heavily as he came down from his high, his clothes and hand completely messy. With his other hand, he ran it through his sweaty hair, tilting his head back. Arnav washed up his hands and face, then held onto the basin. He looked at his phone and stood up straight, looking into the mirror.

Arnav breathed heavily. "I will never let it end."

Chapter Forty Four

Khushi laid in bed, wide awake in the deep night. Arnav was laying on her chest, breathing lightly as he slept. She wondered how he could be sleeping so peacefully when her heart was still racing fast, thumping so hard as if it were trying to escape her chest. There was no way Khushi could calm herself down, especially after what they had just done. The thought of it sent tingles up her spine. Khushi felt her body come to life, her blood rushing south.

Suddenly Arnav groaned. He slowly lifted his head and looked at Khushi lazily with a smile.

"Thinking about earlier," he said, though it sounded more like a statement than a question.

Khushi blushed and nodded.

Suddenly, she felt a little twitch within her. Both Arnav and Khushi looked down at their connected bodies.

Khushi blushed and looked at him. "Round two?"

Arnav smiled. "I could go on to round infinity and would still never get enough of you."

Khushi blushed harder. She was grateful that the darkness hid that because Arnav's playful teases would have made it worse. Thoughts of their previous round flashed through her head once more and shivers went up her spine again. Arnav groaned and Khushi snapped out of her thought and looked at him.

"I love how you clench onto my cock," Arnav groaned.

Khushi gasped at his words and blushed harder. His words made her body hum and clench onto him again. Arnav moaned and shut his eyes, resting his head on Khushi's chest.

Khushi cupped his face and made him look at her. "Round two begins."

*~*

Khushi set her mug down as Arnav entered the TV room. She ogled him, taking in the crisp, three-piece navy blue colored suit he was wearing. Khushi made her way over to him and fixed his tie.

"Don't you look handsome this morning," Khushi smiled.

"It's just the face and the suit," Arnav simply said.

"Well I think the inside is handsome. Sexy, I might add," she winked.

Arnav cocked an eyebrow. "Really? Even after I gagged you and had tied you up to the posts of our bed last night?"

Khushi blushed on the spot, remembering back to that moment from the night before.

~

"Rule number three: reality is way more different than your books."

In the blink of an eye, Arnav picked her up, carrying her on his shoulder. Khushi made a sound out of surprise, but it was muffled by the gag. Arnav placed her down on the bed, laying her flat. Khushi gasped as she landed on her back. She gazed up at Arnav, wondering what he would do to her.

Arnav ran the back of his fingers down Khushi's cheek. "So beautiful," he said, though it seemed he was saying that more to himself.

His hand continued to wander down and Khushi shivered. When he reached her breasts, her hand reached out and caught his. Arnav cocked an eyebrow and looked down at her hand and then at Khushi.

Khushi gulped. But it tickles, she thought, though she did want to tell him that.

Arnav smirked and Khushi gulped once more. She could see something form in Arnav's eyes. It seemed dark and dangerous, yet exciting.

"Rule number four," Arnav said, "things go my way."

Arnav grabbed Khushi's hands and brought them up above her head. Khushi gasped, her back arching up, pushing her breasts upward. Arnav held her wrists in one hand and used his other hand to cup her breast.

Arnav looked straight into Khushi's eyes. "Mine," he growled.

He sealed his lips around her nipple and Khushi moaned. His other hand slowly moved its way down and cupped her womanhood. Khushi gasped once more, only to be cut of by Arnav sealing his lips over her other nipple.

"Mine," he growled again, running a finger through her cleft.

Khushi moaned, shutting her eyes at his tender touch.

Arnav licked Khushi's lower lip and bit it, getting another moan out of Khushi. He moved along her cheek and then moved to Khushi's ear.

"I'm going to tie you up angel," he whispered.

Khushi's eyes widened and she looked at him.

"I will leave you completely exposed to me."

Khushi blinked.

"Do you trust me?"

Khushi looked into his eyes and nodded.

"Good," Arnav smiled. He pulled back and got up. "Don't move."

Arnav walked away and Khushi stayed still. She wondered where Arnav had gone. Arnav came back into the room in a matter of seconds. He straddled Khushi and held four of her scarves in his hands.

"Time to tie you up," he grinned.

Arnav moved her so that she was laying in the middle of the bed.

"Arms up."

Khushi did as he said and raised her arms. Arnav took hold of her left hand and extended her arm fully out. Arnav took a scarf and wrapped it around the bedpost. He brought it forth and crisscrossed it and wrapped it around Khushi's wrist. Khushi held the scarf and watched as Arnav tied her wrists.

"Okay," he asked, checking if its not to tight.

Khushi nodded.

Arnav did same with her other hand and then he extended and spread Khushi's legs out. He tied them up to the posts as well, then he stood up and admired his handiwork.

"Beautiful," he breathed.

Khushi reddened. She began to breath heavily, feeling the urge to cover herself from embarrassment, yet at the same time, she felt sexy and wanted him to gaze away at her.

Arnav walked along the side of the bed, skimming his fingers over her body. Khushi felt ticklish and began to squirm, but she couldn't move away from Arnav's touch.

"You have such soft skin," he muttered, more to himself.

His fingers skimmed over stomach and around the swell of her breast. Khushi shuddered again and pulled on her restraints.

"Control it angel," Arnav said softly.

Arnav sat down beside Khushi and cupped her cheek. "There will be moments when you will want me to stop but won't mean it due to its intensity. So I want you to use your signal carefully. Understood?"

Khushi nodded.

"What's your signal?"

Khushi pointed her ring finger and pinky finger up.

"Good girl."

Arnav unbuttoned his pants and Khushi gulped. He smirked and went around to the foot of the bed. Khushi raised her head to see him, but Arnav told her to stay still. Pulling his shirttails out, he unbuttoned his shirt and tossed it aside. He got rid of his pants, as well his briefs. He crawled on top of Khushi and she looked at him with wide eyes, wondering how much longer he was going to tease her. 

Arnav smirked and looked down at his hand, which was gliding along her front. "Depends - how long would you like me to tease you?"

Khushi gasped. How'd he know, she wondered.

Arnav smiled and kissed her forehead. "I always know, angel."

His sentence made her smile but the gag was in the way. But Arnav could tell by the gleam in her eyes. He brushed the back of his hand on her cheek, gazing at her passionately.

"I will never let you go," he said absentmindedly. 

Khushi's heart melted and she looked at him with the same amount of passion until his eyes gleamed mischievously.

"I'll tie you up like this if I have to," he said, looking down her body. "You're mine, angel. Only mine," he said running his hand along her body. "No one else can have what's mine and that most definitely means that no one can ever have you. Is that understood?"

Khushi nodded.

Arnav cocked his eyebrow. "Do you?"

Khushi nodded again.

Arnav tilted his head. "I don't think you fully understand," he said, swirling his finger tip over her nipple.

Khushi moaned. "I do," she tried to say, but the gag muffled her words.

Arnav chuckled. "What's that angel," he asked innocently, trailing his fingers down to her stomach. "I didn't quite get that," he said, his hand still going lower.

Khushi moaned and shut her eyes, tossing her head back when Arnav's hand had reached her womanhood. Arnav watched her as he slipped his finger within her, his finger sliding right in. Khushi groaned and pulled on her restraints. Unfortunately for her, Arnav had tied them tightly and securely, so she wasn't going anywhere. Arnav groaned when she clenched around his finger.

"Greedy, aren't you," Arnav teased.

Khushi whimpered, desperate for him.

"Would you rather have my cock inside you than my finger," he asked innocently.

Khushi's insides clenched and she nodded.

"Now or later," he teased.

Khushi groaned in frustration and pulled on her restraints, wanting to urge him inside her.

Arnav chuckled. "Greedy and desperate. My, my angel, you're not so innocent."

Khushi whimpered and tried to pout.

"No pouting angel," he admonished.

Khushi whimpered and arched her back.

"Should I assume that means now," he asked, teasing her even more.

Khushi nodded desperately.

Arnav brought his face over hers. "Fine."

He reached out to the side table and pulled a drawer open to get a condom out. Placing it on, he didn't waste a moment and plunged into her. Khushi groaned, clenching her eyes shut as he entered. With each each thrust, she felt him hit the top, as if he were hitting the bottom of her stomach. She wanted to hold him and wanted to wrap her legs around him, but she was trapped. She felt an orgasm coming and she attempted to clench her legs shut, but she couldn't. Orgasm after orgasm rippled from her, screams of ecstasy muffled by the gag. After her fourth orgasm, Arnav removed the gag and covered her lips with his. Their tongues met and again she came, her scream muffled by their kiss.

"Arnav," she breathed.

Arnav brought his hand under her head and cupped it. With his other hand, he untied her right hand and Khushi instantly entangled it within his hair. Arnav leaned his forehead against hers and thrusted with all his might and within seconds, both came crashing down from their high. They panted, the air filled with the smell of sex and sweat.

"Gosh, I love you so much," Arnav breathed.

"And I love you too," Khushi replied, holding onto him tightly.

~

"Yes," she breathed, clenching her thighs.

Arnav had noticed that and he picked her up and seated her on the desk, standing in between her legs.

"I see the memories of last night are still affecting you," Arnav noted.

Khushi wrapped her arms around Arnav's neck. "Memories of our first night still affect me. The most, actually," she admitted, blushing.

Arnav cocked his eyebrow. "Is that so?"

Khushi nodded.

Arnav smirked. "That means I did something right that night."

Khushi giggled. "That you definitely did."

Arnav sighed. "I love hearing you laugh."

Khushi smiled softly.

"And when you scream my name," he smirked.

Khushi gasped. "You have no shame," she mocked.

Arnav chuckled and moved to her ear. "I also love how you greedily clench onto my cock."

Khushi crimsoned. "Arnav," she exclaimed, pulling back and hitting his shoulder.

Arnav only chuckled while Khushi hid her face behind her hands. Arnav glanced at the clock behind her and saw that he had time to spare.

"I've got twenty minutes to spare," he stated.

Khushi looked up at him. "You do?"

Arnav nodded and she looked back at the clock.

She glanced at him then back at the clock. "Any idea in mind on how to pass time?"

Arnav pulled her lower half to his. "I do," he said, his erection digging into her stomach.

"Well then, in that case...."

Khushi looked at him innocently while she loosened his belt and unbuttoned his pants.

"Let's not waste anytime," she winked.

"Angel," he gasped mockingly.

Khushi chuckled and laid back on the desk. "Tick tock Mr. Raizada."

Arnav chuckled. "Tick tock-" but he stopped himself.

Khushi looked at him curiously.

Arnav smiled. "Tick tock indeed," and he sealed her lips with his.