Zaroorat - Arshi FF

CHAPTER 11

Khushi checked on Ahaana one last time before making her way downstairs to the living room. She received a text a few minutes ago from Arnav, stating that he was waiting outside. "Make sure you keep the baby monitor with you at all times" Khushi instructed Devyani as she grabbed her clutch, "Ahaana should be out for the night, but in case she gets fussy give either me or Arnav a call and we will come right back."

"Aap fikar nah kare...hum sab samhal lenge...aap bas enjoy ki jiye." Devyani replied sweetly, earning a sweet smile from Khushi. Devyani then watched the lady of the house check herself one last time in the mirror hanging in the hallway.

Khushi was wearing a stunning lace beige sari, with a black blouse. The back was low, and the lace front of the sari contrasted with the black blouse. Khushi kept her hair lose and swept to the side; and wore dangling earring to finish off the look.

She then turned to Devyani, "Seriously....if you are unsure of anything..." Khushi began, freaking out a little bit. For this was the first time both she and Arnav were leaving Ahaana alone at night.

"Don't worry Khushi...I will take good care of the little one...you go and have fun" Devyani said kindly, completely understanding the feeling of a mother leaving her child at night for the first time.

Khushi smiled and made her way to the door. 'Well...here goes nothing' Khushi thought, trying to calm the butterflies in her stomach and jittery nerves. This would be her first public appearance as Arnav's wife...and her first real interaction with Arnav after their night together. She tried her best...kept reminder herself that Arnav loved Payal and she was only here to help him...but Khushi couldn't stop this feeling of anticipation in her heart...that little flicker of hope. Khushi took a deep breath and made her way out.

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Arnav checked his Movado watch for the 3rd time. He was leaning against the black limo and waited for Khushi to come out. If she is another minute late, then they will be late for the premier and Arnav did not tolerate any kind of laziness. He was already in a really bad mood; and keeping him waiting was only making it worse.

Arnav then heard the click of heels and looked up, all ready to let his irritation be known...but his words seemed to get stuck in his throat. Khushi has managed to take his breath away once again...can a woman be so beautiful? Can she be so sexy? It took all his might to keep his jaw from dropping at the sight of Khushi.

Arnav's eyes gave her a once over. He realized that he liked her hair loose, curling around her face. Arnav felt the desire seep back into his system in full force...and that just pissed him off more. Why was she tempting him so? Why was she making him feel like this again?

"Hi" Khushi said hesitantly. "I hope this is ok...I wasn't really sure what to wear for tonight..." Khushi continued, trying to lessen the awkwardness she felt between them.

"It's fine." Arnav replied stiffly and entered the limo without waiting for Khushi.

Khushi blinked, taken back by the sudden coldness she felt from Arnav. 'Maybe he is nervous about us making an appearance together....' Khushi thought and brushed aside the dreadful feeling she got in her chest as she entered the limo.

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The limo ride was quiet. Khushi tried to make small talk...ask about his day...what he did...was he nervous about questions the media might ask? All inquiries were met with short and curt replies, until Khushi got the hint that Arnav was not in the mood to interact with her at all.

When they arrived at the venue, Arnav's mood completely changed...as if nothing was wrong in the world. He stepped out of the limo first and was met with frantic camera flashes and a roar of cheer from the crowd. The king was here...and his kingdom roared to life.