Accepting Reality ✔️

Part 23 - Past & Present

Three weeks had passed, Khushi's plaster had come off. In that time, Arnav had left no stone unturned to spoil Khushi. He showered her with gifts, took her to her favourite places, and ensured she was never alone. The Raizadas, especially Devyaani and Anjali, were shocked by Arnav's devotion to Khushi. Naani sighed in relief that things were finally falling into place. They had waited a long time for this peace and happiness. Despite the joyous days, there were still nights when Khushi woke up screaming, haunted by the scenes from her trauma. One such night, Khushi bolted upright, drenched in sweat, her heart racing. "No! No, please!" she cried out. Arnav, who had become a light sleeper ever since the incident, immediately woke up and pulled her into his arms. "Shh, Khushi. It's okay. I'm here. You're safe," he whispered, gently stroking her hair. Khushi buried her face in his chest, her body trembling. Arnav tightened his hold on her, his voice was firm yet soothing. He told her that no one could hurt her anymore, he won't let it happen. Khushi looked up at him with tears streaming down her face. Arnav wiped her tears with his thumb and kissed her forehead. As Khushi lay back down, Arnav continued to hold her, whispering comforting words until she drifted back to sleep. Devyaani was very concerned about Khushi ever since the incident. She often comforted her saying that everything will heal with time and provide her strength, she made sure to be there for Khushi. She didn't her grand daughter-in-law to lead down the path of her daughter.

One morning, as Arnav was getting ready for the office, Khushi walked into their room. He turned to her with a thoughtful expression.

Arnav: "Khushi, I'm going to Lucknow the next weekend. We're planning to convert Sheeshmahal into a hotel, and I'd love your opinions on it"

Khushi: "Ohh"

Arnav: "I would really like it if you came along, but I will understand if you refuse."

Khushi was taken aback by the invitation. She knew how much Sheeshmahal meant to Arnav and was touched that he wanted her to be a part of this important project. Before she could respond, Arnav hugged her from behind, resting his chin on her shoulder.

Arnav: "Will you come with me?" he asked softly.

Khushi (nodding): "Yes, I will come with you."

Arnav smiled and kissed her temple.

Arnav: "I'm glad. Also, if you want, umm.. yo..you could meet your father while we're there."

Khushi (shocked): "You... you're okay with that?"

Arnav: "Don't look at me like that. You've wanted to see him for a long time. Now you're in a good enough position to go back. But, I want you to call him to Sheeshmahal. I don't want you going back into that house."

Khushi: "I understand. Thank you, Arnav."

Arnav held her hands and then looked into her eyes.

Arnav: "Also, promise me this: wherever you go, you will be careful. The guards will be there, but still, promise me?"

Khushi (pulling him into a hug): "I promise, thank you so much for this!"

Arnav: "I figured, this trip will be good for you, a nice distraction. I have known for a while that you wanted to meet your father but I was just concerned, you know."

Khushi: "I know but I will be fine, I promise"

Next week in Lucknow, a little girl opened the old wooden doors of Gomti Sadan after hearing gentle knocking. Standing outside was a tall, imposing man dressed in a crisp suit. The sight of him startled the girl, and she took a cautious step back, her wide eyes filled with fear. The man, noticing her reaction, softened his expression and knelt to her level, trying to appear less intimidating. "I'm looking for Shashi Gupta. Is he home?" says the man. The girl, still nervous, glanced back into the house, hesitating for a moment before nodding. Shashi Gupta, hearing the commotion, hurried to the door. As he approaches, he saw an unknown man standing there and his brows furrowed in confusion.