HWGA Chapter 13: Tell Me Something I Don't Know

Purple bits are Hindi. Bold bits are memories. Italics are thoughts. I'm really upset that IPKKND has ended but I'm going to continue my stories. I also have exams coming up which means that I won't be updating until late December. Enjoy :)

New characters

Gupta Haveli

Chapter 13: Tell Me Something I Don’t Know

London, Heathrow Airport

Karan rubbed his eyes tiredly as he watched Khushi talk animatedly about India to an equally tired Amba. Neither father nor daughter had slept properly for the last 3 days.  Karan had lied awake at night thinking of ways to keep Khushi away from India and England. He knew what ever he came up with probably wouldn’t work as Amba and Khushi would ask too many questions. He had tried to convince Khushi to take a trip around Europe, America or Australia but she was adamant in going back home. Amba’s sleepless nights were caused by preparing everything for her business venture in India. In short no one had really slept in the past 3 days.

Karan sighed and thought for the millionth time whether going to India was a good idea. When he’d informed Khushi family, the Logans, Nik and Nat, no one had wanted them to go. But when he had explained the situation fully, they couldn’t get him out of the country fast enough. Now the only thing he had to worry about was Arnav Singh Raizada, who was going to work closely with his daughter.

“This is so fucked up.” He said as he thought about the situation.

He went and handed Khushi a magazine to keep her preoccupied and pulled Amba away.

“Yes dad?”

“Amba there are a lot of things you don’t know-”

“Tell me something I don’t know.” She retorted.

Karan smiled a little at the word play. “When we get to India, things will be confusing.”

“Ok…”

“And-”

“Dad if you can’t tell me the whole story, don’t say anything at all. If stuff happens throughout the trip, tell me then, ok?”

“Fine.”

 Lucknow, Sheesh Mahal

Arnav smirked at a very dishevelled Payal who had just come through the front door with her children. The private investigator he hired had told him that Khushi was expected to visit her parents very soon and the arrival of Payal confirmed it.

“Payal, what are you doing here?” He asked in mock surprise.

“I just came to help with the wedding preparations.”

“Really? I thought you’d come a few days before the Mehendi?”

She looked slightly flustered. “There’s so much to do Arnavji, that I had to come straight away.”

“You must really want this wedding to go well.”

“Of course. Why wouldn’t I? After all Neha is my niece.” She said defensively.

“What about the children’s school?”

“Akash called and said they were taking a 4 week holiday.”

“That’s fantastic. I’ll call Om Prakash to help you.”

Arnav went up to his room and smirked again. The conversation with Payal just confirmed that Khushi was coming to Lucknow. Payal had always thought Neha getting married now was a mistake, especially to Yuvraj. Plus she’d never put a wedding before her children’s education.

“Thank you for the confirmation Payal.”

Now all he had to do was get Khushi alone and grill her about the past 23 years.

British Airway, First Class

As soon as they boarded the plane and made sure that Khushi was settled in, Amba had offered her father a drink, which he had taken. He was sleeping like a baby as soon as the plane was in the air. Amba looked at him guiltily but she had to do it. With Khushi’s nightmares and what ever was keeping him up all night, he hadn’t slept properly for the past 3 days. So she simply mixed some sleeping pills into his drink because she knew he would worry the entire flight. She knew he’d wake up as soon as they touched down and he’d be ready to face whatever was troubling him so much.

I better get some sleep too. I need to be prepared for the worst.

With that she closed her eyes and fell asleep.

Lucknow, Sheesh Mahal

Arnav was going through his files for a meeting in a few hours when there was a knock at his door.

“Come in.”

The door opened and in came Payal. “Arnavji, I’m going to stay at my parents’ house for a few days.”

Arnav tried hard to hide his smile. “Why Payal? You came early to help with the wedding. How are you going to do that at your parents’ house?”

“I’m sorry Arnavji but my father’s really ill.”

“Really? Then perhaps we should all go and see him.”

“No!” Payal said too quickly.

Arnav raised an eyebrow. “Payal?”

“I mean, he’s not that ill but he wants to see me. And I can’t refuse him, he is my father. I was just letting you know.”

“Ok Payal if you insist. Are the kids going with you?”

“I’m taking Tara, the rest are staying.”

“Good.” He wanted to rile up Payal for lying to him and not telling him about Khushi.

“Arnavji?”

“I mean, you always get Tara to babysit the others-”

“I don’t get Tara to-”

“Yes you do. And one day she’ll have enough and you never know what she’ll do.” He knew it wasn’t true. Tara wasn’t like that. She didn’t have a selfish bone in her body.

A bit like Khushi, he mused.

Payal was getting angry now. “I assure you Arnavji, that my daughter won’t ever do anything irrational. I didn’t bring her up like that.”

“You never know with kids these days.”

“I don’t know about other kids but my daughter is absolutely selfless!” she replied haughtily.

“Like Khushi.” There was a stunned silence. Arnav watched Payals reaction but apart from the initial shock, her face gave nothing away. He decided to let her off. “When’s Akash coming back?”

“He should be back tomorrow.”

“And will he be staying with you at your parents’ house?”

“I’m not going to stay at the Gupta Haveli for long, so he’ll be staying here.”

“Payal can you come home around 8pm tomorrow. I need to announce something important to the whole family.”

“If it’s for the entire family, shouldn’t we wait for Diane to come?”

“I have a feeling NK and Diane already know what I’m about to say. You might too.”

“Sorry?”

“You should be.” He murmured.

“What?”

“Nothing. Give my best to your father.” He said cheerily.

Payal left the room feeling slightly angry and confused. Once Payal had left, Arnav smiled at his small victory.

Enjoy you alone time with your sister because once I get a hold of her she’s never leaving my side. I don’t care what it takes.

Arnav didn’t know whether or not Khushi had moved on. She could have a family, children with another man but he didn’t care. All he wanted was another chance at winning her heart. He held on to the hope that she hadn’t moved on like he hadn’t. He moved to his personal garden and started tending the plants, reminiscing about Khushi.

Payal was packing her bag to go to her parents’ house when Tara came in.

“Ma, will you tell me why we’re going to Nani and Nana’s house?”

“I will once we get there.”

“Why are you taking me?”

“Because I trust you and because I don’t want you babysitting all the time.”

“I don’t babysit.” She protested.

Arnav’s words had got to her. “Yes you do, now don’t argue. Have you packed your bag?”

“Yes.”

“Good. I’ll be down in a second, ask the driver to be ready.”

When Payal came downstairs, she could hear her other children grilling Tara about her visit to their grandparents’ house.

“Why are you the only one going?” complained Sachin.

“Because she’s the only sane child I gave birth to.” Said Payal. “Besides, you’re all going to behave extremely well and help with the wedding preparations. Aren’t you?” pressed Payal.

A mumble of yes ma’s could be heard amongst the children.

“Why can’t we all go see Nani and Nana?” asked Nandini.

“Because it’s not that serious. If it is, I’ll call you and all of you can come over.”

“Let’s all pray that it is serious.” Joked Sanjay. They all wanted to get away from their crazy Bua and even crazier cousin. But the joke only earned him a smack around the head from his mother. “I meant, let’s all pray that it’s not that serious. It came out as a mistake Ma.”

“I should hope so. Now behave and do everything your Bua and Chachu tells you to.”

They all groaned. Payal hugged and kissed each of her children before exiting the house with Tara.

Once in the car, Tara asked, “Will you tell me now?”

“Not yet. There are ears everywhere.”

The rest of the journey had been silent.

Lucknow, Airport

Karan had woken up, feeling strangely relaxed, to find out they were already in India. He gave a dirty look to Amba who lowered her eyes in guilt.

“Amba-”

Before he could continue she cut in. “You were over worked and too tired and I knew you’d be up the entire journey stressing out, so I put some sleeping pills in your drink. I’m sorry but it had to be done.”

He sighed and said nothing. He might as well go with the flow as the worst case scenario was happening as they spoke. The worst and weirdest was still to come so he might as well start embracing and preparing.

After they had grabbed their luggage, they got in the car that Logan sent for them. Khushi fell asleep after a while but Amba was wide awake. She was getting more and more nervous by the second. She felt suffocated as fear began to grip her.

Filthy, bastard child!

Her eyes had filled with terror and she began hyperventilating. Karan looked over at his daughter and immediately knew what she was thinking of. He held her hand and squeezed it a little to bring her out of the stupor she was in.

“They’re not like your Dadi you know.” He said softly. “They are incredibly nice people.”

“Everyone sounds nice over the phone dad. Even murderers.”

Karan stiffened. “Trust me, they’ll love you.”

“Sure they will.”

“You don’t trust me, do you?”

“I do trust you dad, I don’t trust people.”

Karan was about to retract his hand but Amba was holding it like her life depended on it. These last few weeks had defiantly taken its toll on Amba. Well it had taken its toll on everybody but it had hit Amba the hardest. She had transformed from a strong, independent woman to a vulnerable girl.

When they had reached the Gupta Haveli, Amba still refused to let go of his hand.

“Honey, it’s going to be ok. I’m right here. I’m not leaving you.” Karan said soothingly.

Amba nodded and slowly let go of his hand. Karan turned to the side to wake up Khushi.

“Khushi. You lazy child. We’re here.” Karan said as he shook her gently.

Khushi mumbled something about jalebies and rubbed her eyes. As soon as she saw where she was, she squealed and ran out of the car.

 Lucknow, Gupta Haveli

A little while before Khushi arrived, Payal and Tara did. After the initial hugging and praising, Payal and Tara went to their room.

“Tara you remember Khushi Masi?” Payal asked Tara.

“The one that lives in England?”

“Yes. And you remember Amba jiji?”

“Yes, Masi’s daughter.”

“The thing is, Khushi Masi has lost her memory. She thinks she lives here and works for LL’s Indian branch. She doesn’t remember anything from the past 24 years. Do you remember when I told you about my first wedding disaster?”

“Yes. The one before you came to Delhi?”

“That’s the one. She only remembers the morning of the wedding.”

“Does that mean she doesn’t remember Amba jiji? She doesn’t remember Karan uncle?”

“No she remembers Karan uncle. We used to be childhood friends. But yes she doesn’t remember Amba. So we have to pretend that Amba is Karan’s and that she’s been living here for the past 24 years.”

“Why don’t you just tell her the truth?”

“Because the doctor wants her to try and remember by herself. If we tell her everything she could go into shock and never recall the past.”

“Why am I here?”

“Because I want you to meet your Masi. She’s the one that named you.”

“What about Sanjay and Sachin, they are the oldest. Why aren’t they meeting her first?”

“Because I trust you the most. Plus if we all came and visited it could raise questions.”

“Is it the same reason as why we’re not allowed to talk about her?”

“Yes. Unfortunately, the Raizada’s did treat her a bit badly. I’m sure they regret it now but Khushi asked that we didn’t speak of her too much. It would open up old wounds if they found out she’s here.”

“So we’re hiding her? Does Baba know?”

“Of course he knows. I never keep anything from him.”

“But he’s a Raizada too.”

“Yes but he’s loyalties lie with me and my children, so he’s decided to keep quiet.”

“So the others won’t get to meet her?”

“Of course they will. I just have to sneak them out of the house without anyone finding out.”

Just then they heard a car pull up.

“That must be her. Tara, please remember everything I’ve just told you.”

“Yes Ma.”

Payal walked out the room with Tara following close behind. They walked to the courtyard to find Khushi embracing her parents. Garima and Shashi had tears in their eyes as did Khushi. This was the first time they were seeing her after nearly 23 years. Payal found that she had tears in her eyes too. She ran to her sister and pulled her into a bone crushing hug.

“How’ve you been Khushi?” she managed to chock out.

“I’ve been fine. Karan has been taking such good care of me.”

“And we’ll always be eternally grateful to him.” Said Babuji.

Payal and Tara finally noticed Karan and Amba. They both greeted them.

Karan went and touched both Garima and Shashi’s feet. “It’s nothing Mausaji. Besides, I had to take care of her. She doesn’t know how to do it herself.”

Everyone laughed and Khushi hit Karan lightly on his arm.

“Babuji are you going to let him talk to me like that?” she complained.

“You know it’s true Titlyia.”

“Babuji!” Khushi finally noticed someone standing behind Payal. “Who’s that?”

“I’ll forgive you because you’ve lost your memory.” Payal brought Tara forward. “This is your niece”

Khushi’s mouth fell open. “Hey Devi Maya! You’re so big. And very very beautiful.” Tara blushed at the compliment. “Is she your eldest?”

“No, Tara’s 16. I had twins before her, Sanjay and Sachin, they’re 20.”

Khushi’s face fell. Her sister had 20 year old children and she’d probably never have any. “Wow, I feel old. So you have 3?”

“No I have five. I had another set of twins, Nandini and Krishna, they’re 10.”

Khushi’s eyes filled with pain. “You have 5 and I don’t have any.”

“You practically raised them.” Payal said hurriedly. “If you want, you can take some, I honestly won’t mind. They’re too much trouble any way.”

Khushi smiled a little and turned towards her parents.

“Is my room where it used to be?”

“Yes. Why don’t you go and freshen up? Buaji will be back from the Mandir any time now.”

Khushi grabbed her bag and walked quickly towards her room. Everyone watched her go with sadness. Bad things seemed to always happen to her and she was the most wholesome person they knew.

Karan thought he’d break the tension. “Is there enough room for me and Amba or will we have to get a hotel?”

“Nonsense! You’re staying here. But first I want a good look at my granddaughter.” Said Shashi.

Karan gestured for Amba to go to her grandparents. She walked towards them nervously. As soon as she was close to them, they pulled her into a hug. Amba didn’t realise she was holding her breath and chose to let it out. She felt relieved that they had chosen to accept her.

“You are so beautiful and so grown up!” said Garima with tears in her eyes.

Amba didn’t realise she was crying until her vision blurred. “Thank you.” She whispered.

“You have to tell us everything! And I mean everything.”

Karan could see that Amba was feeling overwhelmed so he intervened. “She will, once we’ve all freshened up. Masiji, can you show us our rooms?”

“Of course.”

Garima took Amba to her room first.

“I know it’s not a great as your room in London but I hope you can be comfortable here.”

The room wasn’t that grand but it was homely. There was a bed, a desk and a wardrobe. It was perfect. Amba noticed that there were blank spots on the walls.

“Did you take some frames down?” she asked Garima.

“Betiya I know you don’t believe in God so we took down all the photos of them.”

Amba was so touched by what they had done. “Thank you but you didn’t have to.”

“I know. But we didn’t want you to feel uncomfortable.” Amba embraced her grandmother and her grandmother stroked her hair. “It’s ok betiya.”

They stayed like that for some time before Amba pulled away and began unpacking. Next Garima took Karan to his room.

“Lunch is in 20 minutes. Don’t be late.” She warned.

“Yes Masiji.”

Over lunch, dinner and throughout the night the whole haveli was buzzing. Memories from everyone were shared. They got acquainted and reacquainted. They laughed, cried and generally had a good time. The Gupta’s got to spend time with their granddaughter and niece. Khushi got to know her niece better and asked about her other nieces and nephews. Khushi and Payal got to bond again and Amba and Tara got to bond too. It was 4 am before any actually went to sleep. They were already cherishing this time as they could feel a storm coming.

Everyone woke up around lunch and started their merry chatter again.

“Ma, I’m going back to the Sheesh Mahal at 8.” Payal announced.

“But Jiji you just got here.” Complained Khushi.

“It’s not going to take long. I’ll be back tomorrow.”

“Can I come and meet your in-laws?”

“No!” Everyone yelled. Khushi looked confused at everyone.

“I mean, my in-laws don’t know that you’ve lost your memory. Once I’ve told them you can visit.” Said Payal, trying to salvage the situation.

“Ok.” Said Khushi cheerfully and went on eating her lunch.

Lucknow, Sheesh Mahal

Payal and Tara had arrived and they saw the rest of their family gathered in the massive living room.

“Mamu, we’re all very tired and look Payal Mami and Tara are here. Just tell us already.” Complained Priti.

“What have you been doing besides lazing around in the sun all day?” asked Neha.

“That’s more than what you’ve been doing and it’s your wedding.” She retorted.

Before it could turn into a fight, Arnav shouted, “Enough!” Everyone fell silent. “I have called you all here to give you some good news.” He paused and everyone looked at him expectedly. “Khushi Kumari Gupta has returned to Lucknow.”

HWGA Gupta Haveli

Disclaimer: I don't own these pictures, I got them off the internet

I couldn't find a picture of the Gupta Haveli but if you remember in the very first episode of IPKKND the house that the Gupta's were preparing for Payal's wedding is the house that is the Gupta Haveli.

Payal and Tara's Bedroom

Khushi's bedroom

Amba's bedroom

Karan's Bedroom

 



Angels and Devils Chapter 1: First Encounters

Disclaimer: I don't own IPKKND or it's characters. However I do own this story concept.

This is a darker version of how Arnav and Khushi met. If you don't like an abusive Arnav don't read this story. I wanted to write this for ages so I did. The italics are thoughts. I've decided to continue this but I don't know when I'll update. People this story is 16+ so kids please don't read it. So until then, enjoy!

Chapter 1: First Encounters

Arnav was furious. The girl had decided to ruin his fashion show and now she was running away?

I don’t think so

He got on his Bluetooth immediately. “Security! Make sure that girl in the green and pink lehenga doesn’t leave the Sheesh Mahal. When you find her, take her up to my room and make sure you lock the doors so she can’t get out!”

The press had gathered all around him asking him bothersome questions.

“Who was that girl?”

“Why was she wearing green, when the theme is red?”

“Is she new? Is that why she looked nervous and fell?”

“Was this planned?”

“Where’s your original show stopper, Diva?”

ASR wasn’t listening to any of these questions, he waded through the crowd and stormed into the building. He went straight up to his room. He slammed the door shut hoping it would calm him down but it didn’t. He took off his ascot, his jacket and rolled up his sleeves and waited. He didn’t know why he wanted to hurt her but he did. Everything about this place made him violent and all the bad memories came back stronger. He tried not to think about it and calm down but the anger just built up inside him as the seconds went on. Finally he could hear a commotion in the corridor. A girl was shoved into his room. She didn’t acknowledge his presence and turned to bang on the door.

“Please let me go. I need to find Abishek Kannah and return for my sister’s wedding. I’m late as it is. Please let me go. Please.” She kept begging and banging on the door for another 5 minutes before she slumped to the ground and began sobbing. All through this ASR was watching her with a kind of sick pleasure.

Maybe next time she’ll think twice before she goes up against Arnav Singh Riazada.

After a while, Khushi became aware that she wasn’t alone in the room. She turned around quickly to find Arnav staring at her. She became aware of her situation and tried to fix her dupatta to cover herself more. There was silence. Arnav was staring at her and Khushi was staring at the floor, shifting uncomfortably.

After a while Khushi spoke, “I’m sorry, I didn’t know I was thrown into someone’s room. Can you please open the door so I can get out?” she asked in a shaky voice.

Arnav took a step towards her and she took one back. They kept at this until she hit the door and finally looked up. She gasped. It was the same man who had caught her when she fell off the stage.

“Umm oh it’s you. Thank you for catching me when I fell off stage. I can be really clumsy sometimes.” She laughed nervously. “Umm sir, would you mind opening the door?”

But Arnav wasn’t listening to a word she was saying. Now that he had been staring at her for a while, he could see her beauty. Her big brown eyes, which had gone slightly red due to her crying, he could stare at all day and not get bored. Her porcelain skin was flawless except for the tinny mole on her cheek, which in his opinion, added to her beauty. Her slightly sniffling red nose. Her plump rose lips that were begging him to be kissed. He wanted to fist her glossy black hair. Saying that Arnav Singh Riazada was hypnotised would be an understatement. He kept on stepping closer as if stalking his pray. He could see the movement of her breasts heave up and down due to his closness. He smirked before he realised he was openly admiring her.

Khushi was confused at the man who was slowly etching towards her with passion filled eyes. She had never seen a man looking at her like that before. Sure she’s seen men look at her with lust or longing but not the kind of intensity that this stranger was giving her. She couldn’t tell what it was about him that made her so breathless. For a minute she forgot why she was even in the Sheesh Mahal and concentrated on the man in front of her. He looked like a Greek God. The stubble on his face really defined his jaw line. She wanted to run her fingers through his hair just to see if they felt as soft as they looked. He’s shirt did nothing to hide his muscular form and Khushi wondered if God had spent extra time in creating him.

Before she knew what was happening he grabbed her hand and twisted her around and brought her crashing into his chest. This caused her dupatta to slip off a little. He revelled in the feeling for a while before he got back to the task at hand. Khushi was so shocked at the turn of events that she didn’t know how to react and Arnav used this to his advantage.

“Who sent you?” he snarled into her ears. When she didn’t reply, he shook her and this seemed to bring Khushi out of her dazed. “I said who sent you?” And this time he squeezed her wrists to make sure she had heard him.

Khushi hissed in pain but managed to mumble, “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Arnav had had a long day and he knew that tomorrow he would have to face his bastard of an uncle. He had been preparing for this show for over 6 months and he wanted perfection. But this girl had to come and ruin it. He was going to make sure she was punished and punished severely.

Especially a low class girl like her who is always after easy cash. I bet she doesn’t know the meaning of hard work. A little discipline will help her in life.

He spun her around in his arms again until her chest crashed with his. Her dupatta had completely slipped off now and was only being held together by their bodies. Then he brought his other hand up to her dori. Khushi gasped and looked at him with pleading eyes. He smirked and ripped the dori. As the small pearls fell on the floor, Khushi’s heart sank. She knew she was in big trouble now. She tried to struggle in his arms but his vice like grip didn’t falter.

“I’m going to ask you again. Who sent you here?! You have 1 minute to give me an answer or else.” He hissed.

By now Khushi was shaking badly and she had tears streaming down her face. She didn’t understand what was going on but she knew that he wanted an answer. For some reason that Arnav couldn’t understand, he wasn’t enjoying her tears as much as he had hoped to but he brushed that thought aside.

“No one sent me here. I came to talk to Abishek Kannah about my sister’s dowry. I swear that’s all I’m here for.” She said in between sobs and hiccups.

The way she said it with such sincerity made Arnav want to actually believe her. Then he remembered that trusting people lead to down falls and girls such as her were taught to be expert liars and that they’d do or say anything to make you believe them. He didn’t let her tears or her words affect him. He took a deep breath, held her tighter and brought her closer to him.

“This is your last chance to tell me the truth before I get ugly.” He warned.

“I am telling the truth!” she chocked out.

He was beyond angry now. This girl just wouldn’t let go of her story.

“Fine, have it your way.”

Her dupatta fell to the ground as he picked her up and walked towards the bed. Khushi began to struggle violently in his arms but he had a firm grip on her. He dropped her on to the bed roughly and before Khushi could bolt out of the bed, Arnav had her pinned. She opened her mouth to scream but Arnav quickly covered it with his hand.

“Don’t even think of screaming because this room is sound proof.”

He removed his hand. Khushi chose to disregard his words and began screaming at the top of her voice. She stopped when she realised he was telling the truth.

“Good, now tell me the truth!”

“I already told you everything, I swear!”

“I don’t believe you. I think someone paid you to spy on me to get information. Did they tell you to get close to me? To fuck me if necessary? Huh? Girls like you make me sick. You’d do anything for money, right? How much did they pay you? I’ll pay you double, no triple, to leave me alone.”

Khushi was shaking her head to all these allegations. “I don’t know what you’re talking about, I swear. I’ll leave you alone for free if you let me go.” She begged.

“I hate liars and since you’re so adamant to stick to your story, I guess you wouldn’t mind if I do this.”

With that he pulled off her lehenga and claimed her lips. Khushi was numb. She just lay there as she couldn’t process how she had gotten into this situation. He bit her lips and pushed his tongue into her mouth. Her taste was addictive; he couldn’t get enough of her. He brought himself closer to her to make sure there wasn’t any gap between them. His hands began to caress her soft milky thighs travelling higher to her hips, waists and her breasts. He craved her touch and at that moment he knew he wanted her. Khushi didn’t even try and protest she knew it would be futile.

He eventually came up for air and made the mistake of staring at her face. The tears had gone now but the trails they had made on her face were visible. Her eyes looked empty and held a slight tinge of fear to them. Arnav got off her hastily when he realised what he was about to do. She didn’t move an inch. He had forgotten that she hadn’t consented to this and he was about to go and claim her. He covered his mouth with his hands and stared at her, hoping for some kind of reaction but none came. He moved to his jacket, got out his wallet and flung some cash at her lifeless body.

“I hope you learnt your lesson; never mess with Arnav Singh Riazada. Now take the cash and leave. I hope you’ll think twice before you do something like this again.”

He turned and waltzed out of the room leaving Khushi in exactly the same position she was. After a while she realised he was no longer on her or touching her. She sat up on the bed to find the room empty. She gingerly got out of the bed and put on her lehenga. She picked up her dupatta and adjusted it so no one could see the bruises he had created. She was about to leave when she saw her broken dori pearls on the floor. She released her hair from her plaits so it could cover her exposed back.

She opened the door and peered out to see if anyone was around. When she was sure there was no one there, she made a straight beeline for her scooter. All thoughts of finding Abishek and confronting him about the dowry flew from her mind. Fresh tears fell from her eyes as she tried to ignore her aching body and mind. She could only thank Devi Maya that nothing major happened to her back there and pray that no one would stop her on the way to her scooter. She got to her scooter with no hindrance but she didn’t relax, only when she was sure she was half way home did she choose to relax.

Back in the Sheesh Mahal, Arnav was angrily pacing the building. He couldn’t believe he was about to do something so monstrous. He came to a stop at an open room. He stepped into the darkness of the room and just stood there for a while, thinking about his actions. Finally he decided to turn on the lights to find out where he had ended up. The light illuminated a large room with a high ceiling that had chandeliers hanging from them. The chandeliers sprinkled a rainbow of light on the silk drapes and the mosaic floor. It was truly a grand room but Arnav’s eyes didn’t admire its beauty, he was looking at the one thing that spoilt the room. His father’s painting. He stared at his father’s smiling face and with a roar took the painting down. He ripped the painting to shreds and threw the pieces into the fireplace before lighting the fire. He watched as his father burnt down with empty eyes and remembered Khushi.

“I’m nothing like you, you bastard!” He spat. He left the room as the final embers died down.

When Khushi reached the house she finally remembered that today was her sister’s wedding and that she had gone to convince the groom about the dowry. She rushed in to find everything deadly quiet. She looked around to find the aarti fire put out, the mandeep empty and unused and most of the decorations were taken down too. She ran to the house and into her room. She found Payal sitting in front of the mirror staring into space. Khushi walked toward her but Payal showed no signs for moving. Khushi grabbed her shoulders and shook her a little. Payal looked at her like she was seeing her for the first time and launched herself at her. Khushi flinched at the sudden touch but held her as she cried. Payal sobbed on Khushi’s shoulder until Khushi pried her away.

“What happened Jiji?”

“They refused to lower the dowry and then cancelled the wedding.” Then she hit Khushi on the head. “On top of that you went missing. Do you know how worried we were? It’s 1am now!”

Khushi shuddered before answering her question. “Sorry Jiji, I went to see if I could convince Abiskek but obviously he didn’t listen to a word I said.” She lied easily.

“Khushi was that all you were doing? Did he do anything to you? Please tell me you didn’t do anything stupid because of me?” Payal’s eyes filled with concern as to what kind of convincing her sister had to do that would get her home at 1am.

“I only talked. HE didn’t do anything to me. Besides there was a lot of traffic.”

Payal didn’t seem convinced but she didn’t push the matter.

“Let Amma, Babuji and Buaji know you back, they’ve been really worried.”

“Ok.”

Khushi went to see her parents and after a slap and a few lies she came back to her room to find Payal had already fallen asleep. She went to the bathroom and stared at her naked body covered in bruises. She knew they’d be there for a while. She had a long shower and scrubbed her body until it was raw. She didn’t want to remember his touch. When she finally came out, the first lights of day were touching the sky. She was so tired but she knew she wouldn’t be able to sleep so began her daily chores.

Upon returning to his room, Arnav found that it was empty. He was really surprised after his behaviour towards her but what did surprise him was that she hadn’t taken any of his money. It lay there scattered around the room.

Maybe it wasn’t as much as she hoped for.

He called Aman to make sure none of the news crews launched the video of her falling into his arms at the catwalk.

No need to give her the attention she craves for and I don’t want the world to know my perfect show was so imperfect.

He went to his personal bar and made himself a drink. He drank until it was dawn and no matter how much he tried to forget her she always managed to get into his thoughts. The angel disguised as a devil.

She worked extra hard on her chores but no matter what she did, he was always on her mind. The devil disguised as an angel.

HWGA Chapter 12: India

As always the purple bits are Hindi. If you want to see some pictures click on the links below. 

Nik and Nat's Wedding

Khushi's Garden

Chapter 12: India

It had been 2 weeks since the incident and Karan had taken it upon himself to sleep with Khushi every night as she kept on having nightmares. When asked about them, neither Khushi nor Karan would give a proper answer to their children. Amba and Nik hadn’t completely forgotten their conversation that night but every time they remember to talk to the other, something or other would always come up.

Khushi’s physical therapy had gone extremely well and she was practically herself in a week and a half, she no longer had severe headaches when they talked about her past but she still couldn’t remember much. She would sometimes do or say something that would give them hope but that was all. Amba and Karan had shown her pictures of the “past holidays” but nothing. Even talking to her parents, Buaji and Payal hadn’t brought anything out of her. No matter where Karan and Amba took her, there was barely a recollection. Everyone was avoiding talking about the worst case scenario especially when they learnt that Arnav and the Riazada’s were in Lucknow now and until the wedding, but they knew that they’d have to talk about it sooner or later.

Lucknow, Sheesh Mahal

Arnav and most of the family had moved to Lucknow a week ago but he’d been nothing but restless. Everyone one had put it down to work and the wedding but what really occupied his mind was Khushi. His investigator had informed them that Khushi was indeed in contact with the Gupta’s but every conversation they had lead to them forbidding her to come back. He had been so angry to hear that information that he had managed to trash his office. No more useful information had come about after that but he had hope. He was so frustrated now-a-days. On top of that he was walking a fine line with Lawson’s Limited, they had still not gotten back to him about his request.

He had taken up boxing to take his frustration out. He was in his personal gym pummelling the bag when his phone rang.

“Hello.”

“Mr Riazada, I’m Sandra, I’m standing in for Mr Lawson’s assistant.”

“Have you got good news for me Sandra?”

“Umm. I’m afraid Mr Lawson stands by his words.”

“Well that’s too bad. I guess 2 months of preparing has gone to waste. I’m cancelling our contract.”

“But Mr Riazada-”

“Look Sandra, it’s nothing personal. I just like competent people to work with. And no offence, but nearly all the staff at LL are incompetent.”

“Sir-”

“And besides, I don’t really care if I lose this contract, I have a lot more lining up for me.”

“Mr-”

“Have you even asked her?”

“No sir.”

Arnav punched the bag to contain his anger. “Then how on Earth do you know she doesn’t want to continue?!”

“Because-”

“No, no because. Ask her now and tell her the consequences of saying no to Mr Arnav Singh Riazada. I’m trying to be reasonable Sandra but I’m in a bad mood.” With that he cut the call and resumed with his boxing.

London, Lawson’s Limited

Sandra looked at Logan, who had heard every word. He really needed this deal and Arnav knew it. The company wasn’t doing as well as it used to. Especially with his heart condition and now Khushi’s memory loss.

He sighed. “Sandra, call Amba and put the call through to my office.” He moved to his office and waited for the call. A few seconds later the phone rang and he picked it up.

“Hey Logan, what’s up.”

“Amba, I need to talk to you about something important.”

“Ok.”

“I need you to come back to work.”

Amba was shocked. “What! But you said that I could-”

“I know I know. I hate myself for bringing you in but I need you. The company needs you.”

Amba didn’t buy it. “What’s really going on?”

“Mr. Riazada doesn’t want anyone but you dealing with this project.”

“Why?!” She was flabbergasted, she couldn’t believe it.

“He’s threatening to pull the project unless you lead it.”

“I’ve been working from home. Haven’t you got my stuff that I sent?”

“He wants you to be actually there and not interactively.”

Amba got an idea. “Where is he now?”

“Back in India, why?”

“Will the project work if I go to India and work with him?”

Logan was confused. “Yeah, I would think so, why?”

“No reason, I’ll ask dad about it and I’ll get back to you.”

“Unfortunately, I need an answer by today.”

Amba bit her lip. She knew it was going to be hard to convince her dad to let her go to India but she had a plan. “That’s fine.” She cut the call and did a little happy dance. To be honest, when Logan asked her to come in for work she had been ecstatic. She’d been bored to death these past weeks and the fact that nothing seemed to help her mother remember was getting her frustrated. On top of that she had no way of taking out that frustration any more.

Amba left her room and walked downstairs to find Khushi looking at Nik’s wedding pictures. Khushi saw Amba coming down the stair and waved her over.

“Nik’s wedding was beautiful.” She said as she flicked over more picture.

“It was pretty magical.”

Khushi stopped at one of the pictures and looked at Amba. Amba could tell that Khushi was a bit hesitant but she remained patient, waiting for her to speak.

“Amba, was Loganji and I close?” She blushed when she said Logan’s name.

Amba smirked. “Why would you ask that?”

Khushi got all flustered. “No I mean, umm, what I mean to say is, uumm-”

Amba burst out laughing and Khushi realised she was teasing her. She hit Amba lightly and blushed a lot more.

Amba held her ears. “I’m sorry. Yeah Logan and you were very close. You visit often and he’s been our neighbour for years, I always knew there was something going on between you two.”

“Besharam! What about his wife?”

Amba’s smile dropped and she sobered quickly. “They were both in a car accident when Logan was 10. His wife died instantly and he was put in intensive care for a long time. We practically raised Logan after that.”

Khushi had a confused expression on her face. “How can Logan be married when he was 10?”

“They had a son also called Logan. We sometimes call him LJ.”

She had a distant look in her eyes. “NK.”

“What?”

“No it’s this fuzzy memory I have of someone asking me to call them NK.”

Amba tried not to get her hopes up as Khushi had been doing this for the past 2 weeks. “Do you remember anything else?”

Khushi frowned and tried really hard to remember anything but nothing came to her. “Sorry.” She whispered.

Amba sighed and put on a smile. “It’s ok, it’s only been 2 weeks. Do you know where dad is I need to talk to him.”

“He went out shopping for a few things.”

Just as Khushi finished her sentence, Karan walked in with his hands full of grocery bags. Amba and Khushi went over to help him. They put the bags in the kitchen and then Karan got a call. As soon as he saw who the caller was he left the house. Khushi looked questioningly at Amba, Amba shrugged and began to put all the groceries in their right places.

When Karan was sure he’d gained a little distance from the house he picked up his phone. “I didn’t think I’d ever hear from you. What! He’s out! How’s that possible? Fuck that! And they actually believed him? Ooh he’s good. No I’m not compromising on the safety of my family; I know exactly what he’s capable of. I want a restraining order on him. And I want our files classified. Thanks Matt, I owe you one. Yeah, I agree with you. India seems like the only logical option. Alright bye.”

Karan sighed and pulled at his hair. He was so tired. Tired of protecting everyone, of keeping secrets, tired of everything. He wanted to march back in the house and tell Amba and Khushi the whole truth and nothing but the truth. He swallowed his urge and put on the mask of a man in control.

He pulled out his phone and made a call. “Hey Rhiannon. I need 3 tickets to India. First class. Preferable in the next 3 days. Thanks, you’re the best.”

He walked back to the house and asked Amba to meet him in the garden. There were 4 chairs and a table in the middle but Amba went towards the swing. Karan pulled up a chair next to her as she lightly swung on the swing.

“Amba.”

“Yes dad.”

“I know how hard this must be for you.”

“Yeah?”

“How good is your Hindi now?”

“I can get by, why?”

He took a deep breath. “I think we need to go to India.”

She surprised him by saying, “I think so too.”

“Umm good. Pack your bags, we leave in 3 days.” He stood to go.

“Umm dad I need to tell you something.” He turned around and waited for her to continue. “Umm have you told Nik?”

“I’ll call to tell him and the Logan’s in a while but that’s not what you wanted to tell me.”

“Logan’s calling me back in for work.” Karan’s jaw dropped. “No, I said I could work from India. I know you can’t get any holidays right now. I’ll keep my meetings short and mum has family there. I promise I’ll keep an eye on her and I won’t put my work first.”

Karan rubbed his forehead. “Fine. You know if I could raise you kids again, I’d be stricter.”

Amba pouted and gave him her puppy dog eyes. “I love you.”

Karan melted. “I love you too. Now go and pack.”

She skipped off to her room but not before she gave him a quick peck on his cheek.

Karan went inside and found Khushi admiring Logan Sr’s photos. He raised an eyebrow but didn’t do anything about it.

“Khushi?”

Khushi was startled and immediately began to flick through the pictures, pretending that she wasn’t focusing on Logan.

“Yes.”

“We’re going to India in 3 days, pack your bags.”

Khushi squealed and launched herself at Karan. “I finally get to go home?”

“You finally get to go home.” He whispered as his eyes filled with water.

Amba went to her room and called Logan.

“Hello.”

“Logan, I’m leaving for India in 3 days, send over whatever I need.”

“Wow that was quick. Why 3 days?”

“We’re taking mum over so I thought why not.”

Logan tensed. “Khushi’s going back to India.”

“There’s no other way for her memory to come back.”

“I’ll send over whatever you need. Can you ask Karan to call me?”

“He will do in a bit.”

“Amba thank you so much.”

“No problem.”

Lucknow, Sheesh Mahal

Arnav Singh Riazada was dealing with his sister in crazy wedding mode when a call came for him. He was thankful for the distraction and slipped away, leaving her prattling on about something or other.

“Hello.”

“Mr Riazada, she’s agreed to take back the project.”

He smirked. “I’m glad to hear that Sandra.”

“There’s just one thing, she’ll be going to India to do her work.”

“Why?”

“Family stuff, I’m not authorised to say. Will that be a problem for you?”

“No, she’d have needed to come to India anyway. The thing is I’m not in my Delhi branch, send her to Lucknow.”

“Ok, goodbye Mr Riazada.”

“Bye Sandra.”

He cut the call and smiled. Finally it seemed like things were going his way.

HWGA Nik & Nat's Wedding

Disclaimer: I don't own these picture. I got them of the internet.

Nik's Reception Suit

Nik's Wedding Sherwani

Natalie's Wedding Lehenga

Natalie's Reception Dress

Amba's Lehenga

Khushi's Saree

Karan's Sherwani

NK's Sherwani

Logan Lawson Jr's Suit

Logan Lawson Sr's Sherwani

Nik & Nat's Ceremony

Nik and Nat's Reception