Chapter Sixty Three

"YOU'RE WHAT?!!!"

Khushi squeezed her eyes shut, her face reddening, knowing that everyone in the restaurant must have been staring at them due to Lavanya's yelling. When Khushi finally opened her eyes, her assumption was correct and she reddened some more.

"Please tell me you're kidding me," Lavanya screeched.

Khushi shook her head and removed her left hand from her pocket, showing her the ring.

"Holy fuck!!"

Lavanya grabbed her hand and inspected the ginormous diamond and its little buddies on Khushi's ring.

"Oh my god," Lavanya breathed. "I knew the guy had money... but hot fucking dayum."

Khushi felt awkward and Lavanya let go of her hand.

"You're really marrying him."

Khushi nodded even though it wasn't a question.

"Wow... you're gonna be stinking rich too."

Khushi's eyes widened. "La!"

"What," she said innocently. "You know that's true, don't deny it."

Khushi slouched into her seat. "Its so... odd."

"Odd? My dude, you're gonna be loaded!"

Khushi scowled at her choice of words but Lavanya found nothing wrong with what she said as she sipped her iced tea.

"Well what else do you want me to say? But it's not like it should be odd, I mean you've been living with him."

"Yeah, but-"

"Plus he made you eventually quit your small jobs and has you covered. So?"

Khushi frowned. "It's not like I wanted that or asked him to. He just does as he pleases," she grumbled.

"What are you gonna do? That's a man for you," Lavanya shrugged.

Khushi understood her point, but she knew her Arnav better than that than to go with the stereotypical assumption.

"How's Aman," she asked, changing the topic.

"Much better than before," she grinned.

From the look on Lavanya's face, she knew the girl had done something. "What did you do to poor little Aman?"

Lavanya frowned. "I didn't do anything. In fact, he's been doing it to me."

Khushi was confused. "Meaning?"

Lavanya glanced from side to side before leaning closer, making sure no one else would hear. "Aman and I have been trying BDSM."

Khushi's eyes widened. "W-what?"

Lavanya nodded like a bobble head. "We were talking and one thing went from another and we got on that topic. We wanted to try it out, and we did - blindfolds and cuffs, all of that."

Khushi nodded, not able to bring words to her lips. It was just something she had never expected.

"What about you and Arnav? Have you guys ever gotten freaky with it?"

Khushi's eyes widened slightly and Lavanya caught it.

"Oh my god, tell me!"

Khushi blinked and leaned back. "I can't say."

"What? Why not? I told you my ish."

"Yeah, hardly," Khushi tried to brush off.

"Oh? Would you prefer the rated x details?"

"No!"

"So hush it!"

Khushi frowned, but she couldn't help but to chuckle. Lavanya soon broke as well, the two best friends laughing away.

"What's so funny?"

Khushi gaped and her head spun around at the sound of Arnav's voice. She found him standing behind her, wearing a navy blue suit with a navy blue tie and a white shirt. If they weren't outside, Khushi would have pounced on him.

Arnav grabbed a chair and sat down beside Khushi while she gaped at him like a fish.

"What are you doing here," Khushi asked, finally finding her voice.

"I had a brunch meeting across the street."

"Across the-?"

Khushi looked out the window and saw a quaint little restaurant across the street.

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"It was last minute. I had to pick a place so I picked that place so I could meet up with you after."

"Aw, how sweet," Lavanya gushed.

Khushi rolled her eyes and Arnav gave Lavanya a cute smile.

"So, what's so funny?"

"Oh nothing, just your girlfriend- correction, fiancé, getting blush-ey."

"I did not get blush-ey," Khushi defended.

"About what," Arnav asked.

"Well," Lavanya began, "lets just say Aman and I have been... experimenting."

"Oh that. So I've heard."

The two ladies looked at him with confusion.

"I may spend a majority of my time with your best friend, but I do have a few friends of my own, which includes your boyfriend."

Khushi blinked at him.

"You know," Lavanya gaped.

"Well he did talk to me about it."

Lavanya gaped at Khushi and Khushi couldn't believe what she was hearing.

'I swear you men are something else," Lavanya said, shaking her head.

Arnav shrugged and reached out to pick up one of Khushi's fries. Khushi just watched him, her mind clouded with the fact that her best friend had now experienced what she wanted, even as little as it was. Lavanya had merely scratched the surface, and she and Aman were happy with it. But Khushi wanted more, more of the in depth and not just a scratch off the surface.

It dawned on Khushi that it must have been an interesting conversation between Aman and Arnav when he spoke to him about it.

It stuck in her mind, even after they had gotten home. Khushi was absentmindedly washing the dishes after dinner and reached out to place the plate down. However her hand was in the wrong place and she nearly dropped the plate to the floor, had Arnav not caught it.

"Careful angel," Arnav said as he put the plate away on the counter.

"Sorry, my mind is elsewhere."

"I can see that. Tell me."

Khushi looked up at him and knew by the look on his face that there was no escaping this. "Aman asked you for advice? On BDSM?"

"No. He told me they were thinking about it. I told him to go for it."

Khushi tilted her head. "So he doesn't know?"

"That I was a Dominant? No."

Khushi looked down, drying the plate with the towel in her hand. Arnav looked at her for a moment, watching her.

"Angel."

Khushi focused on the plate.

"Angel?"

She didn't look up.

"Khushi," he said sternly.

But Khushi ignored him. Arnav didn't like that and took the plate out of her hand and placed it aside. Khushi still wouldn't look at him and Arnav didn't like it. He took hold of her hand and before Khushi could register it, her back was against the counter, trapped by Arnav's arms.

"Now that I have your attention," Arnav growled lowly. "Speak."

Khushi looked up at him. She looked into his eyes for a moment. "I think you already know."

Arnav looked into her eyes, searching them, and then sighed. "Angel-"

"You know what I want Arnav. Yet you won't give it to me."

Arnav pulled back slightly. "Angel-"

"Why?"

He looked into her eyes, searching them again. "I don't need it anymore, angel. You know that I don't I want to hurt you ever again, I don't need it-"

"But I do."

Arnav's eyes widened. Khushi reached out and gripped his shirt over his abdomen.

"I need it Arnav. I do."

Arnav just looked at her.

"I've told you before Arnav, I trust you. I've told you repeatedly. I trust you, I just need you to trust yourself."

Arnav looked down as she caressed his face.

"I need you to do this for me Arnav... not just for me, but for yourself as well."

He looked into her eyes.

"The real deal - not a scratch on the surface like La and Aman are doing."

"Khushi-"

"Is that understood?"

Arnav looked back down but Khushi kept his hold on him. She watched him as she saw his thoughts flash over his face. Finally he looked up at her and Khushi prepared to fight on.

"Fine."

Khushi looked at him in shock.

"But..."

Khushi opened her mouth to say something, but Arnav glared at her, daring her to continue. So Khushi stopped herself and pursed her lips, though on the inside, a part of her jumped up and down in joy at the small glimpse of the Dominant Arnav. Now she just needed all of him to reappear.

"You have to give me the day."

Her eyes widened.

"And tomorrow."

"But-"

Arnav glared at her once more and Khushi looked down.

"Those are my conditions. Deal?"

She looked at him for a moment. "I'm meeting my mother tomorrow."

Khushi could tell he was surprised, even though he tried to hide it. "When," he asked.

"For lunch."

Arnav nodded in acknowledgement. "That's fine. I need the evening."

Khushi's eyebrow arched up on its own. "Why?"

Placing a kiss on her forehead and lingering there for a moment, Arnav pulled back. "You'll see."

Khushi watched him as he walked way and went to the bedroom.

What is he up to? What does he need tomorrow evening for? Khushi's eyes widened. Is he going to prepare some sort of sex chamber he has on the side?

Knowing Arnav, only the element of surprise could be expected and that was the cherry on top - you simply never knew when it came to the man - her fiancé, her love, her life, her Dominant - known as Arnav Singh Raizada.




So a lot of you have been desperate to know Khushi's secret, and I get it. Trust me, I wanna get it out there too. But I don't think it's right to just spill it. Yeah Khushi knows that she needs to tell him but it's one thing to know she needs to, and it's another that she realizes that she has to do it. So within a matter of updates, you will all finally know Khushi's secret, as well as Arnav. I've been working on this nonstop, hoping to have gotten it done well, and I can't wait to share it with you all

Chapter Sixty Two

Kaushali Das Raizada looked at the family in shock, while her daughter Kalavati Das Raizada appeared to be shocked, but as Khushi could tell, was hiding her anger beneath it.

What is her problem, Khushi wondered.

Kaushali set the bags down and slowly stepped forward. "You're getting married Chote?"

Khushi noticed Arnav slightly cringe when she called him Chote.

"Yes," he simply answered.

Her hand went over her mouth as she gasped. "That's wonderful news!"

Arnav pursed his lips and Kaushali turned to Khushi.

"I should have known you'd be Chote's life partner. Although I must admit that when we first met, I had this feeling within me. I didn't exactly understand it then, but now I do," the woman smiled softly.

Khushi glanced at Arnav and saw that he was looking away, annoyed.

"I-"

"Khushi we need to head back," Arnav said. "I have an important video conference in an hour."

Khushi nodded glancing at Kaushali. She noticed a hint of sorrow on the woman's face, which puzzled Khushi.

Arnav turned to his father and gave him a hug, surprising Kaushali and Kalavati once more.

"I'll see you around Pops."

Arhat chuckled lightly and caressed his face. "Some things never change."

Arnav shook his head. "I guess not," he smiled softly.

Arnav turned to his Di and hugged her. She hugged him back, tears pooling in her eyes. He looked at her, his expression telling her not to cry, but Anjali couldn't help it - she was just too happy!

"Bless you both," Anjali smiled through her tears.

Khushi hugged Anjali and when she withdrew, Arnav took her hand. Khushi looked up at him and held onto his hand. The two headed to the door and as they did, Khushi looked at Kalavati. She saw the woman seething, her eyes on their linked hands. Khushi didn't understand it, even as they walked out of the house.

*~*

As they drove back to Khushi's apartment, neither said a word. Khushi would glance at Arnav now and then, but Arnav never once glanced at her, his eyes focused only on the road. When they arrived to her apartment building, they headed up. Once inside, both of them placed their keys in the bowl and Khushi watched him as Arnav looked through his phone. She looked at him up and down, taking in the plain white sherwani he wore.

"It's not nice to stare Khushi," Arnav said, his eyes still on his phone.

Khushi's eyes darted to his as her lips parted. "What did you call me?"

Arnav looked at her and Khushi looked down at her feet. Hearing him say her name hurt Khushi. He would never say her name unless he was upset or was trying to get something through to her when she was being stubborn.

Arnav put his phone down and walked over to her. He took her hand in his and Khushi watched as he entwined his fingers with hers. She was confused and looked at him, puzzled.

"No I'm not mad at you Khushi, get that out of your head."

Khushi blinked. "Then why are you calling me by my name?"

"Because this is a serious matter."

"What do you mean?"

"You did this on purpose, didn't you?"

Khushi opened her mouth to explain, but Arnav cut her off.

"Thank you."

Khushi's eyebrows shot up. She expected a fuss out of him.

"You've helped to resolve something that needed to be done a long time ago. Thank you Khushi."

She tilted her head with a small smile. "I didn't do anything-"

"Wrong. You did a lot more than you think Khushi; you opened my eyes. You helped me to look past my ego and stubbornness. Thank you."

Caressing his cheek, Khushi leaned his forehead against hers. "I love you Arnav."

"I love you too Khushi," and he kissed her.

Khushi wrapped her arms around his neck and she couldn't help the tears that streamed down her cheeks. Arnav held her waist, bringing her body closer to his. She moaned into his mouth, twisting her fingers into his hair.

Pulling back for air, Khushi leaned her forehead against his. "Don't scare me like that," she whispered.

Arnav smiled slightly. "Oh? Did you get that scared?"

Khushi nodded. "You always call me your angel."

"And you are my angel. There's no way I'm ever letting you go, not ever again."

"Don't, please don't."

Arnav pulled back and caressed her cheek. "You'll always be by my side, angel. Forever. And if you try to leave me, I won't let you."

"I could never Arnav. I'm just scared that one day you might not want me anymore," she admitted with a whisper.

Arnav looked into her eyes for a moment. "Why would you ever think such a thing angel? Dammit Khushi, I love you. What on earth gave you the idea that I would ever leave you, or ever stop loving you?"

Khushi looked down. How do I tell you Arnav?

Arnav ran the back of his fingers on her cheek and Khushi nuzzled into his embrace. Arnav looked at her carefully, seeing the tumble of emotions in her eyes. He bent down and picked her up, taking her to the bedroom. Khushi buried her face into Arnav's chest and Arnav gazed at her as he placed her down in front of the bed.

"It's been quite an emotional day," Arnav admitted, his voice soft.

Khushi nodded, looking down.

"You should rest."

Khushi looked up at him and Arnav caressed her face, giving her a soft kiss. When he let go of her lips, Arnav reached down to the bottom of her kameez and helped her out of it. Tossing it aside, he loosened the strings to her salwar, letting them fall to the floor. Khushi stepped out of them and watched as Arnav rumaged through her drawer. He came back with one of her slips, a red one. Getting her out of her bra, he placed that on her. Once he did, he got her under the covers and Khushi looked at him. Arnav took off his clothes as well, remaining in nothing but his boxers, and slipped in behind Khushi. Bringing her back to his front, Arnav buried his face in her hair and sighed.

"Don't you have a video conference," Khushi asked.

Arnav shook his head. "It was an excuse to get out of there before Kaushali Devi said anything else."

There he goes again with that nickname. "Why do you call her that?"

Arnav sighed. "I'll tell you eventually, angel... eventually, in time. Promise."

Khushi nodded and felt him slowly fade off to sleep, but Khushi couldn't bring herself to sleep.

He promises to tell me these things when I ask him of his secrets, and yet I.... I can't do this for much longer... I can't.... I have to tell him, as horrible as it is.

Chapter Sixty One

Khushi couldn't believe she was doing this and that she was doing this alone. Then again she knew that she had to do this alone, and could only do this alone. So as she waited outside the Raizada house, swaying back and forth on her toes, she waited anxiously for the door to be opened by Arhat. Khushi had asked Anjali in advance if he would be home alone today, since she didn't want to face Kaushali and Kalavati just yet, and Anjali had confirmed that the two would be out today.

The door opened, revealing Arhat. "Khushi," he said with a smile. "Come in, come in."

Khushi followed him in and they sat down in the living room.

"Anjali, Khushi's here," Arhat called out.

Anjali came running down the stairs and gave Khushi a hug. Khushi looked at her in shock, not expecting her to be here, though she was somewhat relieved because she thought she would have to do this entirely alone.

"Oh boy," Anjali chirped as she sat down.

Khushi sat down across from Arhat as he sat down as well.

"Anjali told me you had something important to say," Arhat questioned.

Khushi looked at the man before her carefully. Although he tried not to show it, there was a hint of fear in his eyes, telling Khushi of what his fears were.

"Um, yes... I do...."

Arhat nodded, the hint of fear slightly growing.

"Um... well you see the thing is...."

Arhat nodded again and Khushi gulped. She slowly revealed her left hand from her pocket and held out the ring.

"Your son proposed... and I said yes."

Arhat's eyes widened as his eyes landed on the ring. Gone were his fears and he filled up with joy.

"That's... that's such great news," he beamed.

Khushi smiled and the two got up to hug. Khushi tried to bend down to get his blessings, but he stopped her.

"There's no need for that dear, you will always have my blessings," he smiled.

Khushi couldn't help the tears which pooled in her eyes.

"I'll go get some sweets," Anjali beamed, and she dashed off to the kitchen.

Arhat chuckled before looking at Khushi curiously. "She knew, didn't she? That explains why she bought all those sweets yesterday."

"She knew before me, apparently."

Arhat sighed sadly with a nod. "Of course she did," he said in a low voice.

Khushi held his hand and gave it a light squeeze. "Don't worry Papa..."

Arhat looked up at her.

"Everything will be okay."

He gave a small smile and placed his hand over her head. "With you in our lives, I know it will."

Khushi smiled softly as Anjali came into the room with a box of sweets in her hand. Arhat took one and fed it to Khushi.

"I no longer have one daughter, but two," Arhat smiled.

Khushi stopped herself from showing her confusion and let him hug her once more. What he had just said puzzled her.

One daughter? But what about Kala? Does he not consider her as his daughter? I mean she's his stepdaughter, but still.... What's going on?

The two pulled away and reveled in the sweets, but the thought of Kalavati's relationship with Arhat tugged at the back of her mind. As much as she wanted to ponder on it further, Khushi knew there were much more important things on hand to discuss.

"There's just one more thing Papa..."

Arhat looked at her curiously.

"And I don't know how you'll take it."

*~*

Arnav came out of the shower, wearing nothing but a pair of burgundy sweatpants. "Khushi, I-"

Arnav paused as he entered the living room. His eyes landed on Khushi, looking at her from head to toe as he looked at her in shock, seeing her wear a plain white salwar kameez. Khushi watched him, preparing herself for what was to come.

"Khushi why are you-?"

"Do you know what today is," Khushi nearly whispered.

Arnav looked away, down at the floor. Of course he knew what today was.

Khushi walked around the island of the kitchen and stood in front of him, but Arnav refused to meet her eyes. At first she didn't know what to say, so she gently reached out to caress his face, but Arnav moved away before she could do so. If it was any other day, Khushi would have fussed, but knowing what today was, she didn't say anything about it.

Khushi looked down at her feet. "Di and I..." Khushi cleared her throat. "Um... Di and I- or rather I...." She glanced up at him and looked back down at her feet. "I asked Di and Papa..."

Hearing her say papa caught Arnav's attention.

"... if we could... if we could hold a pooja for your mother's death anniversary."

Arnav's eyebrows shot up.

"I-I know you and your family have n-never done it but... but I wanted to."

Arnav looked at her from the corner of his eyes.

"We're holding it at your father's house."

Arnav looked away and Khushi knew he would say nothing more. So she turned around and picked up her keys from the bowl on the counter top and went to the door. Before she opened the door, she paused.

"Arnav?"

Khushi didn't expect him to respond and he didn't.

"I really hope that you do come to this - for us... and for Momma."

Without another word, Khushi left and Arnav turned as the door shut and locked. For a moment he stood there quietly, not even realizing that he had absentmindedly clenched his fists, channeling his sorrow and anger.

*~*

Khushi couldn't take her eyes off the beautiful woman in the picture frame. With long, tousled brown hair and soft brown eyes, Aisha looked beautiful in the photograph and Khushi could only imagine what it would have been like to see her face to face.

When Khushi had asked Arhat to hold a pooja for Aisha, it was then that Khushi had discovered that her death anniversary was right around the corner. So that was why Khushi had decided to do this, knowing that this was something that needed to be done.

As the pandit prepared for the pooja, Khushi, Anjali, and Arhat sat around the small, crackling fire. Anjali had managed to rid of Kaushali and Kalavati, telling them that there was a huge sale at Saks Fifth Avenue, driving both mom and daughter crazy to go shopping. It was necessary to make this small and intimate, and within the family.

Khushi looked at the door and then down at her hands.

Anjali placed her hand on Khushi's shoulder. She gave her a small smile, reassuring her that Arnav would come, or so she had hoped.

Khushi looked at Arhat. The poor man was busy gazing at the photo of his deceased wife. Not once did he look away since that photo had been placed in its spot, his eyes filled with emotions. It was clear to Khushi that he had been thinking of memories past, and she was sure that he would do anything to live them again or do anything to bring her back to life.

"It's about time for the pooja to begin," the pandit said.

Khushi glanced at the door. "Can't we wait just a little bit more?"

"Only a little. It isn't good to do it after the auspicious time."

Khushi glanced at her phone and wondered if she should call him. She believed he would come, but she was scared he wouldn't, and not knowing was killing her. Just as she made her decision to call and picked up her phone, the door opened, revealing Arnav. Arhat looked at him with surprise, Khushi grateful that he was here.

Arnav's eyes landed on the photo of his mother and remained there as his feet moved him forward. Slipping out of his shoes, Arnav sat down besides his father, his eyes still on his mother's photo. Arhat looked at his son, now also surprised that he was sitting beside him. He had hoped that his son would arrive for this, yet a small part of him had lost faith, thinking the worst. Seeing him brought back hope, but there was still that feeling of surprise. And for him to sit next to him, was even more surprising.

Khushi was happy Arnav had sat down next to Arhat. Khushi and Anjali had purposely sat down together so that son and father would sit together. They had hoped there would be no bickering, and now oddly enough, there was none.

Anjali looked at the pandit. "Panditji, you may start now."

The pandit nodded and began the prayers. The four did as they were told and prayed for the best for Aisha and that she was in peace.

When the pooja ended, the pandit left and everyone stood in quiet. Khushi noticed that Arhat was looking at Aisha's photo, standing several inches away from the photo. She looked at Arnav and saw that his eyes were on his mother's picture as well. But in actuality, Arnav was looking at his father as he gazed into his mother's photo. He simply stood there and watched his father for a moment, and then not knowing why, he walked towards him. Both Khushi and Anjali watched as Arnav stood beside Arhat and gazed at Aisha's photo.

"She looks beautiful," Arnav said in a low voice.

Arhat sighed with a nod. "She refused to take the photo," he said with a small smile.

"That sounds like Momma," Arnav smiled softly.

Arhat scoffed lightly. "I had to force her into the photo studio to get her to take this picture. She bickered and bickered, saying she didn't need a professional photo."

"Always the natural," Arnav scoffed lightly.

"Mm hmm."

Both men stood there quietly for a moment. Arnav remembered what Khushi had told them in the car back in Dubai. He glanced down at Arhat's hand and saw the very same ring he had always seen him wear when he was young, the one his mother had given him when the two had gotten married.

Arhat turned to his son and saw that he was looking down. When he realized he was looking at his hand, Arhat held it up and held it with his other hand.

"You still wear it."

It wasn't a question, but Arhat nodded. "Never took it off."

Arnav shook his head. "I've never noticed before."

"How would you," he smiled sadly.

Arnav looked up at his father. He had never noticed it before, but his father had aged - not radically, but he had aged. He had always remembered the man he knew when he was a young boy, not the man before him now, and it made him realize the truth. "I've hardly paid attention to you."

Arhat said nothing, looking down at his ring.

"... and it's my fault."

This made Arhat look at him. "Chote-"

"No dad... it's true."

Arhat turned his body to him. "Chote," he said sternly, but was cut off by his son once more.

"I blamed you. I blamed you for it all, I blamed you for her death. I thought... those rumors... I thought it was all true. ... and Momma-"

Arnav's voice cracked as his emotions took over him.

Arhat wanted to reach out to him, but he stopped himself. He didn't know how Arnav would take it, but in the end he didn't care because Arnav was his son, and he wanted to embrace him. So instead of reaching out to place his hand on his shoulder, Arhat hugged his son. Arnav was shocked by the sudden embrace and both Khushi and Anjali went into tears.

Arnav blinked several times before he hugged back his father. When his son hugged him back, Arhat went into tears. Although the two had hugged after Arnav's graduation. This hug meant more, so much more.

"I'm so sorry Dad," Arnav whispered through his tears.

"You don't have to apologize for anything Chote-"

"No, I do." Arnav pulled back and looked at his father. "I blamed you for everything. I never once tried to look at the situation carefully. I never even cared to open up my mind and clear the fog which shrouded my eyes. I know first hand how much you loved Momma, both Di and I did. I knew Dad - enough that I was even jealous when I was a kid."

Arhat chuckled lightly at the memory.

"I'm so so sorry Dad."

Arhat placed his hand over his head. "You never have to apologize to me for anything Chote. Know that I've always loved you, do, and forever will."

Arnav nodded and the two hugged again.

Khushi had tears streaming down her cheeks, and so did Anjali. Anjali gave her a side hug, knowing that this was all thanks to Khushi. The men pulled away and looked at them. The two ladies came forward and the four of them hugged.

This was right, absolutely right. Everything felt just right to Khushi, and she wanted it to stay just this way.

Arhat pulled back and placed his hand over Khushi's head. "Live long child, may you live long."

Khushi smiled at him through her tears.

Taking Arnav's hand, Arhat placed Khushi's in his. "I know you'll keep my son happy, I've known it since I first met you. You have my blessings forever child, and not just mine, but Aisha's as well."

Khushi looked at Arnav and Arnav squeezed her hand lightly.

Anjali grinned at the two. "So have you two set a date for the wedding?"

"Wedding?"

Khushi's eyes widened and she felt Arnav's grip tighten. She squeezed his hand as she looked back at Kaushali and Kalavati, holding shopping bags from many different stores and looking at them in shock.

Oh no.

Chapter Sixty

Their trip to Dubai soon came to its end, creating wonderful memories for both Arnav and Khushi that they would most certainly never forget. As sad as she was to leave her own little world with Arnav, she was also excited to get back home, not to mention very anxious.

I'm engaged now. Holy crap, I'm engaged and I have to tell everyone?

"Angel?"

Khushi snapped back to reality.

"If you stare at the ring too hard, you might destroy it with laser vision," he smirked lightly.

Khushi frowned and stuck her tongue at him, then continued to look at her ring. Arnav watched her for a moment, then reached out and held her hand.

"Hey, what's wrong," he said softly.

Khushi shook her head. "Nothing is wrong. In fact everything is perfect... until we land."

"What do you mean?"

"Well by now, who knows how many people Anjali- Di has told by now-"

"You don't have to call her Di you know."

"I know, but you do."

Arnav smiled softly.

"It's the storm that awaits that I'm worrying about. There's Lavanya, who I'm sure is going to go bat shit crazy and scream her head off, so that's like telling five people at once. Then I have to tell my brother, which feels like mission impossible. Then there's the awkwardness of telling my folks. And of course we have to tell Dad before anyone if you ask me."

"Dad?"

Khushi tilted her head. "Your father, of course."

Arnav didn't say anything and looked at the ring on her finger. Khushi watched him toy with it then reached out and held his other hand with her free hand.

"He's not a bad guy Arnav," she said softly. "He loves you. You know that right?"

Arnav didn't say anything, toying with her ring. Khushi wondered if he knew that his father was innocent and that he still wore his ring from Aisha.

"Arnav?"

"Hmm?"

"You know that your father is innocent right?"

Arnav's eyes shot up to hers and Khushi gulped.

"W-well not exactly innocent but...."

Arnav resumed to toy with her ring.

"He... he didn't cheat on your mom."

Arnav paused.

"One of his business rivals had spread that rumor about him, feeding it to your mother, breaking her heart and...."

Arnav toyed with the ring a little faster.

"He still wears her ring."

This time when his eyes met hers, they were filled with confusion, his eyebrows scrunched at the middle.

"He never took it off," she whispered.

Arnav let go of her hand and turned away. "Angel-"

"I'm not lying Arnav." She reached into her purse and took out her phone, going to her pictures.

She pulled up a picture of her and Arnav's father from the night of their graduation. She had Anjali take them when they had gotten a moment.

Khushi zoomed into the picture. "See, look."

Khushi put the phone in front of his face, forcing him to look. Arnav's eyes met the screen and his eyes slightly widened before his eyebrows scrunched. He took the phone in his hand and looked at the picture carefully.

"He loved her Arnav. Always did and still does."

His eyes met hers. "So then why did he marry her?"

Khushi shook her head. "I don't know why her specifically, but he wanted you and Di to have a maternal figure."

Arnav handed her phone back to her as they arrived to the tarmac. They boarded their plane and once everything was set to go, they took off. Once they were free to move around, the two went to the back and laid in bed. Ever since their trip in the car, Arnav hadn't spoken a word to her - just a few words here and there to the crew, but not to her. Khushi was slightly worried, hoping that she hadn't made their trip end badly.

Khushi looked up at Arnav. He was once again playing with her ring, though absentmindedly.

"Arnav," she called out, nearly whispering.

Arnav sighed and looked down at her. "I'm not mad at you angel," he said, looking into her eyes.

Khushi just looked at him.

"I just find it all... I don't know. Ever since Momma passed away, I barely acknowledged that man; I never paid attention to him. And now I find out that he's always been wearing her ring. Every time I try to recall an encounter with him, I remember nothing because I would always ignore him."

Khushi held his hand and gave it a light squeeze.

"He wears her ring but...." Arnav looked up at the ceiling. "Why the hell did he even marry that Kaushali devi?"

Khushi's eyebrows shot up. She had never heard him acknowledge that woman, forget about what he calls her.

"None of it makes sense," he whispered.

Khushi brought his hand to her lips and kissed it. "We'll find out together."

Arnav looked at her.

"We do everything together now. I will always help you with everything and will forever be with you - no matter what."

Arnav nodded and gave her a kiss, then pulled her into him. Several minutes passed when Khushi could tell by his even breathing that Arnav had fallen asleep. She tried to get some sleep as well, but he mind was filled with many thoughts.

Why did Arhat specifically marry Kaushali? Why marry someone with a child? Why not someone who didn't have a child? Why does Arnav call her Kaushali devi? Does he usually call her that by that nickname? Or was it something he kept more to herself? And what is the deal between Arnav and Kalavati? Would she ever find out?

Her mind asked questions, nonstop, when Arnav groaned.

"Stop it," he muttered.

Khushi looked up at him.

"Don't overthink that pretty head of yours angel. Get some sleep."

"I can't help it," she whispered.

Arnav opened his eyes, tired as he was. "Why?"

"There's just so many things I don't understand."

"Like?"

"Like why Dad would marry her, or why you called her Kaushali devi, or why you hate Kala so much, or-"

"Breathe Khushi. Breathe."

Khushi did as he said, letting out a heavy sigh. He caressed her her cheek and placed a kiss atop of her head.

"Don't worry about it."

"How can I not Arnav? You're going to be my husband in some matter of time. I'm going to be a part of your family. Shouldn't I know these things? These secrets? Your secrets," she whispered in the end.

Arnav looked into her eyes for a moment. "Shouldn't I know yours as well," he said softly.

Khushi's eyes widened a fraction before she turned away. A tinge of fear went through her and she forced herself not to think of that night.

Arnav wrapped his arms around her protectively and nuzzled her hair. "Get some sleep, baby," and he dozed off again.

But Khushi just couldn't get herself to do it. He was absolutely right - how could she be asking him such a question when she herself was scared out of her soul to tell him hers.

But if he finds out, he'll never see me the same way ever again. I'll never be his angel again... I'll be a monster in his eyes forever.

Arnav sighed and nuzzled into her again, his grip on her loosening a bit. Khushi took hold of his hand and held it over her chest with both hands.

I will never let you go, never again. Not now, not ever.

*~*

Although it wasn't Dubai, Khushi was glad to be home, and this time in her home. She and Arnav would be staying there for the time being, and Khushi was glad to have her little world back of just the two of them.

On their first day back, the two allowed themselves to recover from jet lag. The day after, Arnav went to the office and Khushi decided to set her plan into motion and met up with Anjali for brunch.

"You want to do what," Anjali questioned in shock.

"Have a pooja at your house for Momma," Khushi repeated.

Anjali just blinked.

"You don't like my idea?"

"No, no, I like it, it's just... I never expected anyone to ever say it out loud and make it happen."

Khushi pursed her lips.

"I think it's something necessary to happen. Just the family, keep it private, no outsiders - only you, me, Chote, and dad."

Khushi nodded. "That's what I was thinking."

"You can also get Momma's blessings this way too, though I'm sure you already do."

Khushi smiled softly.

"Let's do it."

Khushi nodded. "I'm afraid to tell your brother though. I don't know how he'll feel about it."

Anjali nodded as she thought about it. "Neither do I."

Khushi sighed. "I would prefer to keep it as a secret from him until it seems right to tell him."

"Okay, I guess. Who knows how Chote will react."

Khushi nodded.

"So have you told your brother?"

Khushi shook her head and looked at her ring on her finger. Every now and then, Khushi would check her finger to make sure it was still there, paranoid by its most-definitely expensive price.

"I hope you haven't," Khushi said.

"Nope. You want to tell everyone and I respect that; it's your big news."

"Thank you, I appreciate it."

"So who are you going to tell first?"

"Dad, for sure. And then... I don't know."

Anjali nodded in acknowledgement. "Okay."

"I don't know why this feels so hard, I mean it shouldn't be yet it feels so hard."

"Don't worry, you'll be fine."

"I really hope so."

Chapter Fifty Nine

Khushi followed Arnav as he led her through the boat to a private cabin. Her eyes landed on the bed, the biggest occupant of the room, beside the built in night stands on the wall, which faced the portholes, looking out to the sea.

Khushi heard the door click shut behind her and felt Arnav before he even touched her. His arms wrapped around her waist, his hands splayed on her stomach as he moved her against his chest.

"Mine," he whispered. "All mine. Now and forever, always."

"Always," Khushi breathed.

Arnav turned her to him and they gazed into each others eyes. Love bore in them, illuminated in them. Arnav cupped her cheek and Khushi moaned into his embrace. He brought his lips closer to hers and Khushi's eyes drifted shut as his lips met hers. The kiss was slow, very passionate. When the two pulled back, Khushi cupped his face in her hands. Arnav nuzzled into her embrace, kissing the palm of her hand. He then kissed her forehead, his lips lingering there for a while.

"My angel," he breathed.

Khushi smiled and looked up at him. "My future husband."

Arnav smiled. "My future wife."

Khushi took in a sharp breath. Hearing him say those words did something to her, made something within her bloom.

Arnav's hand wandered from her waist to the slit of her dress. He moved his hand through it and in the blink of an eye, Khushi had been leaned up against the wall with one leg around Arnav's waist.

"I like this," he commented on the slit.

"I love this dress. Thank you."

"You never have to thank me angel. What's mine is yours now, as well."

It only crossed Khushi's mind then that what he said was true.

"As much as I love this dress on you, I want to peel you out of it."

Arnav let go of her and turned her around. He reached for the dress around her thighs and began to pull it up. The material skimmed across Khushi's body, making her tremble with anticipation. Arnav removed the dress and draped it over a chair. His eyes wandered on her lace clad body. His hands skimmed over it, eliciting moans from Khushi's lips.

Arnav kissed her shoulder and nuzzled her neck. "So, so beautiful."

Khushi blushed with a smile.

"And all mine."

Khushi turned to him. "All yours."

She reached up and kissed him, while bringing her hands up to his chest. She helped him out of his tux and loosened his tie. Arnav tossed them onto the chair beside them, never letting go of her lips. Khushi tugged on his shirt, freeing it, and undid the buttons. It was tossed aside as well, and Khushi worked on Arnav's belt. However just as she undid it and undid his pants, Arnav whipped her around and pulled her lower half to him, his erections digging into her bum, Khushi leaning against the wall.

Arnav moved his hand lower and brought them in between her legs. He gasped. "Oh angel, you're dripping."

Khushi panted.

"You're all wet, future wife."

Khushi shuddered.

"All for me?"

Khushi nodded. "All for you, future husband," she panted.

Arnav smirked, and Khushi could feel his signature smirk. He hooked his thumbs into the waistband.

"Arnav-"

"I want to peel you out of these as well. Turn."

Khushi turned to face him, his thumbs still hooked in the waistband. He held her waist and began walking them towards the bed. Khushi laid back on the bed and Arnav slowly removed her panties, the lace skimming along her milky legs until he had taken them off, and then tossed it aside. Khushi remained in her corset and heels and she wondered when he'd take them off.

Arnav picked up her leg and placed kisses on her inner thigh. Khushi squirmed and shut her eyes. Arnav watched her writhe as he kissed her along her leg, moving closer to her foot, and then removed her heel, dropping it to the floor. He did the same with her other leg, then removed the shoe, dropping it.

Moving between her legs, he hovered over her. Khushi could see the love, the adoration, and the pride in his eyes. She caressed his cheek and kissed him softly. Arnav smiled softly and kissed her hand.

"Don't ever stop smiling, Arnav."

"I won't, just for you."

Khushi smiled and kissed him again. The two lost themselves in the other's embrace that night, lost in their love. Nothing else mattered, no one else mattered. All that mattered was each other and the love that they had for each other.

*~*

Khushi woke up and smiled, seeing Arnav gazing at her. He was slowly running his hand through her hair, caressing her.

"Good morning," she whispered.

"Good morning angel."

Khushi smiled.

"Did you sleep well?"

Khushi nodded. "Did you?"

Arnav nodded.

Khushi looked around the cabin. The sun was hinting through the portholes, which meant that it was morning. "Whose boat is this?"

"A Prince's."

"Oh? Fancy."

Arnav grinned. "Fancy indeed."

"Just like you fancy wine?"

Arnav remembered back to their first date and grinned. "Fancy," he mouthed.

Khushi giggled and Arnav smiled.

"Gosh, I love that sound."

Khushi blushed. "I know."

Arnav got up and kissed her. "Up you get angel."

"Mm, no!"

"Angel," he warned, though he was smiling.

Khushi pouted and shook her head. "Sleepy."

"Didn't you get enough sleep last night?"

Khushi blushed from the memories of the night before. She also remembered his proposal and lifted her hand to see the ring on her finger. It really wasn't a dream.

"Do you like it?"

Khushi nodded as she sat up. "I love it, Arnav, it's absolutely beautiful." She looked at the diamond encrusted loops. "It must've been expensive-"

"Hush, I don't want to hear any of that. What's mine is now yours as well."

"I don't think I'll ever get used to that."

Arnav kissed her forehead. "With time. Now come on, up you get angel."

Khushi groaned. "Do we have to?"

Arnav chuckled. "I brought a change of clothes so you can be more comfortable, as well as some sandals."

"Really? Oh, thank you."

"You're welcome angel. Now come on, up you get."

With a sigh, Khushi got up. She washed up first and then Arnav. Both got ready together, carefully folded their clothing and put it in a bag. They went out onto the deck and saw that they were heading towards land.

"Thank you for last night, Arnav. It was really magical."

Arnav smiled and gave her a kiss. "Anything for you angel."

They soon reached land and their driver was waiting for them to drive them back to the hotel. Sometime after they got back to their room, the hotel sent up a gift basket, congratulating them.

"They know?"

"I told them my plan."

"Is there anyone else who knew?"

"Di."

"She knew? Why didn't-?" Wait a minute, it all makes sense now! That's why she was being so odd when we video chatted! And that's why-! "Arnav..."

"Yes?"

"Were you worried that she was going to spoil your surprise that day?"

Arnav blinked. "I have absolutely no idea what you're talking about."

Khushi couldn't help but to laugh. "You were! You thought Di was going to tell me."

Arnav paused. "You called her Di."

"Well, that's what you call her," Khushi smiled softly, wrapping her arm around his. "She is going to be my sister in-law after all."

"That she is," Arnav smiled, and he kissed her forehead, causing Khushi to sigh.

Arnav's laptop began to chime and the two turned to see Anjali calling.

Khushi went towards it and took the call. The second Anjali saw her face, she shrieked with delight.

"Show me the ring, show me the ring, show me the ring!"

Khushi chuckled and held her left hand up, causing Anjali to shriek once more.

"Oh my gosh, eeep!!!!!!"

Arnav shut his eyes, pretty sure that his sister was going to make him go deaf.

"So how did it go? What did he do? Where did you guys go? What did you wear?"

Khushi couldn't hold back her chuckle, not just because of Anjali's excitement, but seeing Arnav's screwed up face due his sister's shrilling. She told Anjali all about it while going into the spare bedroom, saving Arnav's ears.

"Oh my gosh, this is so exciting! My Chote is engaged!!!"

Khushi smiled lightly.

"It's all because of you Khushi. Chote... I always wondered when love would come into his life and here you are now. Thank you, Khushi. Momma would've been so proud."

Khushi blushed slightly. "Thank you."

"No, thank you, Khushi. Honest."

Khushi looked down with a smile.

"Well, I have to spread the news!"

Khushi's eyes widened. "Please don't and please don't tell my brother yet."

"What, why?"

Khushi pursed her lips. "Just... please, I want to tell him."

Anjali nodded. "Okay, if that's what makes you happy." And then she shrieked. "I can't believe I'm finally going to have a sister," she sang.

There's Kalavati... but then again, you guys hate her. ...maybe now that I'm joining the family, I'll finally find out everything behind this hate.

"Anyways Khushi, it's late, so I'll let you guys go back to your celebrating! Bye love!"

"Bye Di."

Anjali smiled softly. "I always knew you were going to call me that someday."

With that, Anjali ended the call and Khushi smiled. 

She's right. In a way, she always did.

Khushi stood up, when an idea struck her mind. Would he... I hope so....

Khushi rejoined Arnav in the living room and gave the  MacBook back to him. "Arnav?"

"Yes angel?"

"What's our next stop from here? I mean, after we leave Dubai?"

"Well I did want to travel Europe, but based on some work emails I've been getting, it looks like that'll have to be delayed."

"So... does that mean we're going home?"

Arnav looked up at her with a soft smile. "I have no issues with cramped space," he winked.

Khushi chuckled lightly with a smile. "Good." She sat down beside Arnav and snuggled into him, watching him type away another business email.

"It'll be just you and me."

"I can't wait," she smiled. I really can't.

Chapter Fifty Eight

It's had been hours that Arnav had been gone. Khushi began to wonder where he was, when the hotel line rang.

She picked up the phone. "Hello?"

"Good afternoon Ma'am. Sir has sent the car for you."

"The car?"

"Yes, it is waiting for you now to take you."

"Take me where?"

"That I do not know, he did not say."

"Oh... okay, thank you, I'll be down in a few."

"Yes Ma'am," and they hung up.

Khushi was confused. "Car? For what? Where am I going?"

Still very confused, Khushi wore another one of her rompers and headed down. One of the workers led her to the Audi and she got in. When the car pulled away, Khushi looked at the driver.

"Where are we going?"

"Mr. Raizada wishes for me to not to tell you."

Khushi's eyebrows met in the middle. "What the?"

The driver chuckled. "He said you'd say that."

Khushi frowned. What the? What is Arnav up to?

Khushi watched the city around her as they moved through it. Soon enough they arrived to their destination, a very posh store that clearly carried designer brands.

Expensive designer brands.

The driver held the door open for her and Khushi stepped out. Three ladies who were standing outside stepped forward.

"Welcome Ms. Gupta. Please, come this way," one of the ladies said.

Khushi, confused as she was, followed behind them. As she entered the store, Khushi saw numerous designer dresses throughout the store, as well as accessories.

"Mr. Raizada has asked us to help you pick out a dress," the woman said to her.

"A dress? Why would I need a dress?"

"He did not say. He just asked us to help you pick out something. He's already made a few selections himself and wants us to show them to you as well."

"He made selections?" What the? What is he up to?

As odd and confusing as Khushi found it all to be, Khushi looked at the dresses. She found quite a few that she liked, and the ladies held them for her as she chose more. Once she had gone through it all, the ladies took her into a big fitting room, walled with mirrors.

"Um, of the dresses I chose, could you separate the ones he had selected so I can see what he chose and how many I chose."

The ladies nodded and created two separate piles. Most of the dresses Khushi chose were ones that Arnav liked.

"Okay, I'll start trying them on now."

The ladies nodded and left, waiting outside for if she needed anything. Khushi picked up a dress from the Arnav-pile and tried it on. She stepped out and the ladies helped her to zip it up and commented while Khushi looked in the mirror. She continued to do this, going through every dress. In the end, the two piles she had created had split, each pile now having subcategories: reject, okay, and way too expensive. Although she had created this system, her eyes kept wandering to a dress she had in the Arnav: Way too expensive pile. It was red - as if it were on fire, red. It was sleeveless, made of silk and lace. A slit ran along the left leg, something she knew Arnav would love very much. The back was deep cut, another thing she knew Arnav would love for sure.

Khushi picked up the dress and looked and it. It's so beautiful... but it's so expensive! How could a dress be so expensive? It's ridiculous!

One of the ladies came in. "We should start doing hair and make up now."

Khushi's eyebrows scrunched. "Hair and make up?" What?

The ladies ushered her into another room, seating her in front of a table covered with more makeup than probably a makeup store owned. Two of the ladies stayed while the other left, coming up with ideas of what to do for hair and nails. Khushi had absolutely no idea what was going on, but as they began to pamper her, her mind cleared and emptied. They worked on her hair, makeup, manicure, and pedicure, the third woman soon rejoining them to help.

Sometime later, Khushi was done and prepped, her makeup and hair done, her nails done and dry.

"Now for the dress," one of the ladies beamed.

"But I haven't-"

One of the other ladies came in with the red number Khushi was in love with.

"But-"

"Mr. Raizada really loved this dress and wanted us to make sure the this dress came into consideration. When we saw that you couldn't stop looking at it, I notified him and he said to go with this one. It's beautiful, isn't it?"

Khushi blinked. He wants me to have that dress?

"You will look absolutely stunning in this dress! And the shoes and jewelry he chose - he will be blown off of his feet!"

Khushi couldn't believe what she was hearing. He chose shoes and jewelry for me?

"He also picked a little racy number for you."

Khushi looked at her in confusion as the woman disappeared from the room then came back. In her hand was a red laced bustier with matching panties and garters. Khushi's eyes widened at the sight of it and how light the fabric was. You could see right through it!

Khushi gulped and took it as she handed it to her. She went into the dressing room and put it on, gasping at the sight of her when she finished. One look at her, and Arnav would probably destroy this expensive piece- er, scrap of clothing.

That cannot happen.

The ladies soon rejoined her and helped her to put her dress on. They helped place on her jewelry and Khushi slipped on her heels. When she looked at herself in the mirror, she couldn't believe she was really looking at her reflection.

Holy cow....

One of the ladies stepped forward with a clutch.

"Let me guess, he chose this too," she asked, taking the golden clutch.

The woman nodded.

Outside, the Audi pulled up. The ladies helped Khushi out and the driver held the door open. Khushi entered the car without flashing herself, and waved at the ladies as they waved at her. The driver took the bag with her belongings, put it in the trunk, then got back in the drivers seat and drove off.

Khushi looked at him. "Will you tell me now where we're going?"

"It's a surprise madam."

Khushi leaned back. "Of course it is."

She looked out to the evening sky, wondering where on earth Arnav was and what all of this was about.

He better have a good explanation, she grumbled.

Some time later, they pulled up by the bay, by a yacht.

What the?

The driver stepped out and held the door open. Khushi carefully stepped out and looked at the yacht. A man stood by the entry so Khushi went to him.

"Good evening Ms. Gupta. Mr. Raizada awaits."

I bet he does, cause I've been waiting patiently enough all day!

Khushi followed behind the man. He led her out to the deck and Khushi was shocked. There was a table for two, candles lit with flowers around - lilies to be specific, her favorite. But it was the man who stood by it that stunned her even more.

The man she loved, dressed and looking very handsome in his black tuxedo was gazing at her with a smile - her smile, the one that was only meant for her.

Arnav stepped forward and held his hand out. Khushi placed hers in his and he placed a kiss.

"You look so beautiful, absolutely stunning."

Khushi blushed. "Thank you. You look very handsome as well."

Arnav offered his arm and Khushi took it, letting him lead her to the table.

"I love your dress."

"Do you now? I didn't know."

Arnav lightly chuckled and held the chair out for Khushi. She sat down and Arnav tucked her in, then went around and sat across from her.

"Sarcasm doesn't suit you angel."

"Doesn't it?"

Their server came out with a bottle of wine and poured it into their glasses. When he went away, Arnav held his glass up.

"Mm, perhaps. Shall we toast to sarcasm then?"

"Probably not a bad idea," she said, unable to stop her smile.

"Then to sarcasm and humor - may it always bring a smile to your face."

Khushi chuckled lightly and and clinked their glasses together and sipped their wine.

Their server soon returned with their meal and Khushi recognized the second she saw it.

"Shrimp scampi," Khushi questioned as the server left them.

Arnav nodded.

Khushi couldn't help but to think of their first date. She could hardly believe that so much time had passed since the days she used to analyze every brand he wore, researched him, and would call him pothead.

The thought made Khushi giggle and Arnav cocked his eyebrow.

"Is something funny?"

Khushi pursed her lips. "We've come a long way, huh pothead?"

Arnav looked down, his lips curving. "We really have."

"I can't believe I said that to your face that day. I wanted to disappear! All I could think of was myeh!"

Arnav chuckled. "You always were an interesting one. Tell me, after the brief research you had done on me..."

Khushi blushed at that reminder.

"...what do you think of me now?"

Khushi gazed at him. "That research... it wasn't research at all. It told me nothing of the true man behind the shell he shows the world. It told me nothing about the man I fell head-over-heels in love with. But I'm glad that it made me want to know the real you."

Arnav smiled. They began their dinner, talking and laughing the night away, thinking back to some of their old memories. When dinner was complete, they took their wine and stood by the edge, looking out to the horizon.

"We did something like this on our first date."

Khushi nodded. "Only it was at your penthouse with a view of the city, and it was my first time ever drinking wine."

"And look at you now," he teased.

Both Khushi and Arnav chuckled.

Khushi looked down, a small blush creeping onto her cheeks. "It was also the night you first made love to me," she said softly.

She looked up at him to find him gazing at her.

"It was one of the best nights of my life," he admitted.

Arnav took her glass and placed both of theirs aside then held her to him.

"I knew you were different the moment I first met you. I may have not been so nice-"

"Not so nice," Khushi teased.

Arnav rolled his eyes and Khushi chuckled.

"Okay, yeah, maybe not. But that aside, I knew you were different - good different."

Khushi remembered him saying those same words to her on the terrace.

Arnav looked down at their connected hands. "Khushi, do you remember what I said to you after I first made love to you?"

"...it's okay. I'm glad I'm your first. And I hope to be the only one."

Khushi nodded.

"At the time, I myself didn't understand why I exactly said that. Maybe a part of me did understand why because I had already fallen in love with you and I just didn't realize it. But because that part of me did, it made me go into fear."

Khushi smiled sadly and cupped his face.

"I always believed that I wasn't capable of love. That if I did, I would only lose them. Loosing my mother... it was the worst thing to ever happen to me... until you left me."

Khushi took in a shaky deep breath.

"I don't think I've ever felt such pain in my life. Maybe close to, but nothing like that. You leaving me... I nearly lost myself. I stopped eating, stopped working - I just didn't know what to do. I found myself spending time with those home videos and then finally went home after all these years. It was also the first time in years that I broke down in front of my sister like that."

Khushi ran the back of her hand on his cheek.

"I realized then that I could no longer go back to the life I once lived. My life became incomplete without you. I wanted you - I needed you because I was so in love with you."

Khushi smiled, feeling tears threatening to pool in her eyes.

"When I got you back, I was the happiest man alive. Through everything I had been through, you had become my rock and gave the strength I needed. Seeing you smile brought me out of my darkness and into the light."

"You did that-"

"No. You did that, like the angel you are. My angel. I felt so blessed to have an angel like you, yet I feared of losing you again, because I worried that the pain I caused you would make you leave me again."

Khushi looked down.

"If I could take back what I did to you that night, I would do everything in my power, even more just to change it-"

Khushi placed her hand over his lips. "Hush, now. Don't think about that. Not now, not ever again. We've moved on and have come so far since then. I don't want you to ever think about it again, promise me."

Arnav just looked at her then kissed her hand. "What did I ever do to deserve you?"

"Mm, sneak around to smoke pot," she said, trying to lighten up the mood.

Arnav chuckled and Khushi was happy it worked.

"I guess in a way pot helped me get one thing right. Took some time to quit, but I'm glad it worked out alright because the only thing I need, is you."

Khushi smiled. "And all I need is you."

One of the men from security came into view. He looked at Arnav and Arnav nodded. The man walked away and Khushi looked at Arnav curiously.

"What was that about?"

"You'll see in a minute or two."

Khushi was confused. Arnav was looking up to the sky and she looked up as well. There were a few stars shining in the sky. However the stars would soon share it's space, as a flare blew up and fireworks erupted. Khushi gasped and marveled in the bright lights.

"Oh my gosh," Khushi exclaimed. She turned to Arnav. "Did you do this?"

Arnav nodded.

"Oh my gosh, you're the best," and she hugged him.

Firework after firework flew up into the sky and burst into multiple colors, filling the sky. The smile on Khushi's face had become plastered on, refusing to go away.

However there were other plans in mind that were about to occur.

Arnav took Khushi's hand and Khushi looked up at him.

"Like these fireworks bring colors to the dark sky, you brought colors into my dark world. Without you, I'd still be in the dark. I want to be in your colors forever just as I hope that you'll continue to color my world."

Tears once again threatened to fall.

"I love you Khushi, and I want you to be by my side forever..."

Arnav bent down at the knee and Khushi's eyes widened as he revealed a small black velvet box.

"...as I hope you'll want to be by my side forever, as well."

As Arnav opened the small box, Khushi's hand went to her mouth, hoping to stop her sobbing as she saw the beautiful diamond ring within it.

"Khushi Kumari Gupta, my angel..."

Oh my gosh!

"...will you marry me?"

Khushi could no longer hold back the tears and they escaped as she quietly sobbed. She really couldn't believe that this was happening! It was as if this were a dream and she was afraid that she would wake up any minute and find herself back on the day she first met him, only to have never met him in the first place. Yet as the booms of the fireworks went off, they were both still here. It wasn't a dream, and Arnav, her love, the man of her life, was truly asking her to marry him - he, the man who once believed he wasn't capable of love because his mama had been taken from him at a young age; because he never got to experience the love of a parent as a child because he had to abandon his childhood; because he had become the cold-hearted dominant who only cared for pleasure and control.

He, the man who was her controlling lover.

And she couldn't ask for it in any other way.

"Yes."

Arnav gasped asked his eyes widened. "What," he breathed.

Khushi nodded her head as crazily as a bobble head. "Yes, I'll marry you."

The look on Arnav's face took Khushi's breath away as his eyes lit up and his lips spread into a wide grin. Arnav took the ring out of the box and Khushi held out her left hand. He placed the ring on her finger and as he stood up, he picked up Khushi and swung her around, both laughing in joy as he did.

Arnav placed her down and rested his forehead on hers. Khushi placed her hands on his shoulders as they both tugged on the air between them.

"I love you so much, angel."

"I love you too, Arnav. Now, and forever."