Khushi in Control

Arnav's Reaction

Khushi - Why did I have to fall in love with him? (Thought to herself, tears streaming down her face.) Why did I have to leave him?

SHANTHIVAN TERRACE

Arnav was looking at sky after Khushi's abrupt call. She would not have called him if she really hated him. He concluded; he needs to handle this delicately if she gets to know he is trying to find her then she would escape. The phone number gave a clue she is in Australia. So, obviously NK would have helped her. It brought a hint of relief to Arnav's tense face, and he immediately dialled NK not bothering about time.

NK - Hey Nannav (NK tried sounding normal) How come you are calling me?

Arnav – I am sure you helped Khushi.. (in as usual no non sense tone. So NK answers)

NK - Khushi ji is safe, but she needs some time alone. (NK hesitated.) I'm sorry, Nannav. I promised Khushi Ji I wouldn't tell anyone. Not even you.

Arnav - Okay, NK. I understand and I trust you. Just make sure she's safe."

NK - She is, Nannav. Don't worry.

Arnav's face relaxed slightly, but his mind was already racing with plans. He wouldn't push Khushi to come back, not yet. He'd let her play her cards; see how far she'd go. A slow smile spread across Arnav's face. He'd give Khushi the space she wanted, but he'd be watching, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Arnav felt like he was fighting a lone battle against everyone. His family, whom he had always trusted and relied on, seemed to have turned against him. The pain and isolation he felt was unimaginable.

MORNING

The next morning, Arnav walked into the living room, his eyes scanning the room for his family members. They were all seated, sipping their tea and chatting quietly. Arnav's eyes locked onto Nani, his voice cold and detached.

Arnav – You all think you can you can just hurt Khushi and get away with it?

Dadi – You are not understanding the reality Arnav

Arnav – No, Dadi. You all have crossed a line. And now, I will do things which I had to do much before.

Anjali comes out of room with baby, hearing to his loud voice.

Anjali – Chotte, please...calm down

Arnav – No, Di. I won't listen. What did you tell? Khushi was coaxing you to leave Shyam for her own benefit? (His expression was mixture of anger and disgust)

Anjali – Don't you feel the same Chotte? I was almost ready to separate from Shyam.

Arnav – Really Di? Let me tell you something which no brother would every tell his sister. May be no husband would say this in open to anyone. I am capable of satisfying her physically, emotionally and financially and she is happy with me.

Nani – What kind of language is this?

Arnav – Same language in which my wife was accused of seducing this, Shyam.(Pointing at Shyam and giving him a deadly glare) I am not Khushi to convince anyone in sweet way. So, spare me. (Arnav's eyes scanned the room, his gaze cold and unforgiving.) There are some financial changes I am making (After a pause) which may not please you all. Aman will come in noon and explain

He walks out of the house.

AFTERNOON

The house had fell silent from the time Arnav had walked out, the weight of his words hanging in the air. Dadi's face was red with anger and embarrassment, while Nani looked on, a mixture of shock and concern on her face. Anjali looked like she had been slapped, her eyes wide with hurt and shock. She glanced down at the baby in her arms, as if seeking comfort.