Chapter Ten

I couldn't decide on what to wear. My options were either my black mini-dress or one of the clothes I haven't worn that Amma had bought.

"Amma, what do I wear," I asked.

"Don't ask what you're going to wear because I bought you a bunch of cholis for you so don't you dare think of asking what to wear!"

Okay, jeez, who pulled on your hair?

Amma sighed. "Sorry, I'm just worked up about tomorrow?"

Oh? "But why?"

"Well, I really like that family, and the boy..."

Maybe now's the time I mention he's my boss?

"... so I'm hoping for things to go well."

I nodded understandingly. "I guess."

She sighed. "Go get ready, hmm?"

I nodded and left to my room. I brought out all the packets filled with cholis. One caught my eyes and I decided to go with it. The choli was green, only being the size of up to where my bra goes up to, the back being bare. The sleeves were made of a net-like material and were also green. The skirt was a mix of red and orange. The decor was just simply amazing and I knew that this was what I would have to wear!

Quickly washing up and doing my business in the bathroom, I came out, drying my face with my towel. I quickly did my makeup and hair and then wore my choli. I learned that doing your makeup first is a better thing. That way you won't end up messing up your outfit.

Words from experience =D

I decided to let my hair flow, and since my hair is really long, and I mean really long because it goes past my waist, it could act like a cover-up. I grabbed the dupatta and placed it on my left shoulder and left.

Lavanya said that she would pick me up so I texted her saying that I was ready. She said that she was on her way and in two minutes, she arrived. Introducing her quickly to my family, we left.

"You look hot," Lavanya said.

"Thanks. You too!"

She chuckled. "You think you should wear something that short? Especially...."

I had told Lavanya everything over the phone yesterday, cause I knew one day or the other she would know, so I just told her.

"I don't care," I said. "Plus, you said it yourself that he's only there for a short while."

"Yeah, but still."

I sighed. "I don't know! I didn't think of that! Crap!"

"Don't beat yourself."

Lavanya pulled up to the party hall. She parked and we came out and gave our names at the front. Walking in, I was amazed by how big the hall was. A waiter came up to us with drinks, and I passed the alcohol and took a glass of Pepsi.

"You don't drink," Lavanya asked as she sipped her champagne.

"Nope," and I drank my Pepsi.

We looked around here and there and we spoke to people here and there. All of a sudden there was some shouting at the front and I turned to look.

"Why are they yelling," I asked.

"Cause ASR just arrived."

Damn.

There were photographers and reporters going crazy and in came Mr. Stunningly-Gorgeous. He was a snapping black suit, looking jaw-dropping sexy! Ooh, someone hold me!

Get a hold of yourself Khushi! That's your boss!

He passed by us, though we were standing behind some people so he wouldn't have noticed us. Arnav went to the front and shook hands with some guy and got endorsed into a conversation.

My goodness, he looks amazing! If I were to marry him, I'd show him off and brag about him being my husband. You know what, actually, I wouldn't. I would let people find out on their own so that they'd get extremely jealous. Or maybe-

Cut it out Khushi! That's your boss!

Ugh! What to do?!

Music began to play and Lavanya nudged me.

"Wanna dance," Lavanya asked,

"I dunno...."

"Come on! It'll be fun!"

"I know but... I mean let there be a few more people and then we'll go in."

"'Kay."

A few more people went in and then Lavanya and I joined in. We danced, though I felt a bit awkward at first. See, I feel okay dancing at like friends' parties but these kinda things? Or even family/social events? Not really.

As the songs went, I began to feel comfortable and swayed away, dancing to the beat. Lavanya and I were having loads of fun when I felt like someone was looking at me. Like you know how you get that conscious feeling on your back when someone is looking at you? That's what I'm feeling.

I casually turned as I danced and saw Arnav looking at me. Shit! I quickly turned away and looked at Lavanya wide eyed. She scrunched her eyebrows and I gestured his way. Lavanya didn't get it at first, but I did it again, and then she realized.

But instead of trying to help me or anything, she smirked! Oh this chick is gonna get it! First him, and now- shit! I just realized that my thing is backless! Crap!

=/
Why me?

Chapter Nine

I can't believe I didn't catch it before. When I was being interviewed, I had heard Arnav's voice then. And then on Saturday I had also heard it again. And then when he just yelled.... No. Way.

"Khushi?"

I looked at Lavanya.

"How do you know ASR? I thought...?"

I looked at Arnav and then looked away. How do I tell Lavanya that he's the guy from the alliance?

Arnav looked away from me and looked at Lavanya. "Get this place cleaned up. Fast." He looked at Aman. "Aman, let's go."

Arnav just walked away and I turned and watched him leave. He disappeared before my eyes and I slumped.

Is this seriously happening?

"Khushi," Lavanya said as she placed her hand on my shoulder, "How do you...?"

"I don't wanna talk about it, actually." I looked at the papers. "Here, I'll help."

I quickly bent down and picked the papers up. I could notice some of the staff looking at me now and then, but I paid no attention. My brain was scattered all over the floor, and along with the papers, I was searching for brain parts.

I seriously can't believe it. The only thing that just kept going through my head was my alliance was with my boss?!

What does he even think of me?! But I didn't even know it was him! I hadn't even seen his face during the friggin' interview! So how...? Hey DM, now what?

I handed Lavanya the papers and left to my desk. All I did was work, trying hard not to think of what had happened. I was fine until break but thankfully, Lavanya could tell I was disturbed, so she didn't say anything.

And it's only Monday? Great. How do I last until the weekend? Or at least, how do I survive the rest of my time here? Maybe I should just quit :(

Thank goodness Arnav never came back that day. The next day, I hadn't seen Arnav once. I think it's my luck, but do I really not want to see him? Even on Wednesday and Thursday morning I didn't see him. That is, until lunchtime.

I had just finished my work and gotten up to head out and get something from the deli. I got a sandwich and Pepsi and came back up and headed for the lounge. Lavanya had already gotten her lunch from before, so now I was just going to join her. She still hasn't asked me any questions regarding Monday, and I prefer it like that.

As I came back in, I heard a voice.

"Yeah Di, I'll take my medication."

I followed the sound of the voice and looked up to see Arnav on the phone, in his room. His room being nothing but glass walls, you could always see him if he stood by them.

"Yes Di, I know it's past time for them," he said.

He must be talking to Anjali.

"I'll take them now. I'm having lunch, so I'll take them. ... you take care of yourself. ... bye."

Arnav hung up the phone and was about to turn away, when he noticed me. He looked right at me and the uncomfortable-ness (that's not even a word =D) was roaring through me. I looked away from him, still feeling very much confused. Looking side to side, I quickly walked off, more like sprinted, to the lounge to join Lavanya, feeling his gaze still bore on me.

Once I got into the lounge, I saw Lavanya talking to Pam. I sat beside Lavanya and went into deep thought.

I don't get it. Arnav must've known it was me all along. I mean, he saw my profile from the interview, and there was a picture of me. And even if there wasn't, he must've pieced everything together. Unless....

Did he know all along? Did he just give me the job because he knew I'd be coming to his place? But why? I mean.... Nothing is making sense to me!

"Khushi?"

I looked at Lavanya and Pam. "Huh?"

"Have you decided what you're going to wear," Pam asked.

I shook my head. "No."

"I've decided to wear my purple halter dress. What about you Lav?"

"I'm thinking my off-the shoulder navy blue," Lavanya said.

"I don't even know if I wanna go," I said.

Pam gasped. "Why not?! It'll be so much fun!"

"I dunno-"

"You should go," Lavanya said. "It'll be fun."

And by the tone of her voice, I knew she was trying to say don't let the whole Arnav thing bother you.

"Okay, I'll go," I said.

Pam clapped and Lavanya smiled at me. I mouthed 'thank you' to her and Lav mouthed 'you're welcome'.

Chapter Eight

I arrived to work nice and early. I sat at my desk and started my work. I worked away on my Mac when everyone stood up. I stood up as well and saw a guy coming in.

"Good morning Sir," the other's said.

I quickly said good morning as well and the guy nodded once as he walked past.

That's the boss?! But-

"Morning Khushi."

I turned and saw Lavanya. "Morning Lavanya."

"So how was the alliance thing?"

"Good, actually. For once," and we chuckled.

"Oh yeah, wanna come to a party," Lavanya asked.

"Party? What kind of party?"

"Its an annual thing that the company signs on with this other company and a party is thrown. It's just a whole staff thing, that's all."

"Um, how do I dress?"

"Sir prefers western when it comes to these things. But eastern's fine as well. It's on Friday."

"Um... okay. I'll just have to decide on my outfit then."

And then it occurred to me.

"Wait, you said that Sir looks scary, but he didn't seem so scary to me."

"I told you, it's the face. He looks okay, but he has a hot head."

"Really? But he looks so peaceful. And then when he smiled lightly-"

"Whoa what? He smiled?!"

Lavanya's jaw had dropped. She looked like someone had just smacked her across the face out of nowhere.

"You're lying," she said.

"No I'm serious. He smiled lightly and- there he is," I pointed.

Lavanya turned and looked at the man I was pointing at. He was in a light olive colored button down and brown pants and he had glasses.

Lavanya chuckled. "That's not Sir."

"What? But everyone greeted him."

"Well, yeah, I mean yes, that's Sir, but not Sir."

"What do you mean?"

"I should've known you meant him. I mean I was just in Sir's room. That guy you saw in the glasses is Sir's cousin brother, Akash Sir. He had gone away to Bangalore to check on the branch there. His job is to check on the branches and if there's a meeting Sir can't go to, then Akash Sir goes."

"Oh."

"Yeah. And Akash Sir is much nicer. He doesn't have a temper like Sir."

"Yikes."

"Mm hmm. And when Sir gets pissed, well-"

"WHAT THE HELL IS THIS?!"

Everything in the office went quiet. They all looked up at Sir's room, curious as to what was going on.

"Here we go," Lavanya whispered to me.

"This is your fucking work?! This is what you call work?! This is completely unprofessional! Get out! You're fired!"

In a few seconds, a guy came out and he was looking down. He walked past everyone and headed right out.

Poor guy. But did he mess up that bad? And the sound of that voice! It seems so....

Hmm....

"Well that's it, for a taste I guess," Lavanya said. She looked at everyone. "'Kay everyone, back to work" She looked at me. "Could you get me thirty copies of each of these," she asked, handing me five papers.

"Sure," I nodded, and I went to the copy room.

I made thirty copies of each and carried them in my hands. I went to Lavanya's room, but it was empty. She was nowhere to be seen, so I went to the reception desk and asked the receptionist if she saw her, but she didn't.

Great. Now what?

I decided to head back to my desk and would leave the papers there when I saw her. The papers were becoming a pain so I had to shift the way I was holding it. To think carrying 150 pieces of paper is work. Either that, or I must be weak.

I was shifting the papers around and trying to get a proper hold, not realizing someone was walking right ahead of me and I walked into them. The papers flew out of my hand and swiveled to the floor, as I nearly tripped and fell. The person quickly caught me and got me up on my feet.

"What. The. Hell," the person growled.

My hair was all in my face because of this stupid jerk. I tossed it back and looked at the jerk. "Hey, what the hell yourself you j-"

My jaw dropped. No. Way. Looking back at me was a guy, who looked not much older then me, brown eyed and no stubble. He was in a white button down, gray waistcoat and gray pants, wearing gray leather shoes.

Lavanya came running forward. "Oh my gosh! Sir, I'm so sorry! This is-"

"Khushi?"

I blinked, completely shocked with my eyes wide and eyebrows shot up through the roof. "Arnav?"

Lavanya looked at me with wide eyes as Arnav and I just looked at each other in shock.

This. Cannot. Be happening.

Chapter Seven

I glanced up at him and saw him looking the other way. Awkwardly, I sat down on the swing. He didn't notice since he was looking the other way.

Hmm....

"Would you like to sit," I practically whispered.

He turned and looked at me and instantly, I froze. He looked at the empty space beside me and sat down, leaving some space in between us. We sat for a while, not saying anything. There was just this awkward silence around us, when finally, he spoke.

"So what do you do," he asked.

Wait a minute - why does his voice sound so familiar? Have I met him before- no, I've never even seen him in my life! So then why...? Ugh, whatever. I'm not even gonna think about it anymore.

I shrugged slightly. "Not much. I recently graduated with my Master's and recently got a job."

He nodded. "That's good. Fresh mind, fresh job."

I snorted lightly. "Yeah. ... what about you?"

"I run my own business."

My eyes shot up to him and he turned and looked at me.

"You're kidding," I said.

He scrunched his eyebrows. "No, he said slowly.

Hot Stuff say what?!

"Excuse me but dayum," I exclaimed. "And how old are you?"

"I'm 28."

"Wow." I nodded my head, impressed. "Thats really good. How long have you had it?"

"Since I was 17."

My eyes shot up back to his, very wide. "Wow," was all I could say.

He slightly smirked. "I guess."

I lightly chuckled. This guy sure is something. But....

"You don't seem like one of those snobs," I said daringly.

I looked at him and he looked at me. I couldn't exactly tell what he was thinking, but I knew he was thinking something. I had to end up looking away, slightly blushing. I could notice him looking at me from the corner of my eyes.

Eep!

"I'm here!"

We both looked up and saw Anjali with a tray. She came our way and set the tray down on the table in front of us.

"I see we're looking at each other, hmm," she teased.

Arnav and I looked away. Anjali giggled and then asked how much sugar I took. I told her and she handed me my tea and then she handed Arnav's his tea. She took the tray and left, smiling, and I looked at him.

"You don't take sugar with your tea," I asked.

"I can't. I'm diabetic."

My eyes widened. "You are?"

He nodded. "Yeah."

"Oh. ... I'm sorry."

He looked at me confused, yet humored. "Why?"

"Well, you can't have sweet stuff! I mean you can't have candy unless it's sugar free, or gum, unless is sugar free, or jalebis!"

"What the? Jalebis?"

"Haan! Yummy, sweet jalebis," and I was off in La La Land.

"So you like jalebis?"

I snapped back. "Yeah. But...."

"But?"

I shook my head. "Nothing."

I quickly took a sip of my tea so that he wouldn't question forward. Had I continued what I was going to say, then it would've been that if we did actually get married, then I would lower down my sugar-eating habits =3

We both sipped on our tea and Anjali came back.

"So are you two talking," Anjali teased.

I slightly blushed.

Arnav gave her a face. "Have you spoken to Jeejaji?"

Anjali blushed. "Yes."

"When will he be back?"

"You know how lawyers are," she rolled her eyes, and then placed her hands on her hips. "Why? Trying to get rid of your sister huh?"

I couldn't help but to giggle, not noticing Arnav looking at me. "Your husband is a lawyer," I asked Anjali.

Anjali nodded. "Yeah, and he spends his time in the court all day," she pouted.

"Aww."

Just then Arnav's phone rang and he pulled out a BlackBerry. Typical business man phone.

"Hello," he said Ito the phone. He held a finger up and we both nodded and he walked away to talk.

I looked at Anjali. "So your husband is a busy man?"

Anjali nodded. "Yeah. He's one of the top lawyers, not meaning to brag, but that actually sucks. Especially if you're the wife of a top lawyer," she pouted.

"That must suck."

"Hmm." She looked at Arnav and then quickly sat beside me. "You know, my Chote is always at the office too."

What? "Really?"

"Mm hmm." She sighed. "I'm hoping and praying that he gets married fast. That way he won't be working all day. He needs to get away from it all."

"Ooh...."

She wrapped her arm around my neck. "Don't worry. My brother does have a heart and from what I was hearing inside..."

I looked up at her.

"... you just might be the answer to my prayers," she winked.

I blushed instantly. Omg, I hope Buaji didn't say anything. Then again, she would never do that.

"So, if you'd like," Anjali whispered, "would you like to meet my brother again?"

I blushed harder. How do I reply to that?

Anjali giggled. "I've got my answer."

She got up and went off to her brother before I could stop her. Arnav had just gotten off the phone when she reached him and spoke to him. I couldn't hear them, but in the end, Anjali beamed and went back inside.

Arnav looked my way and I quickly looked away. He came my way and I'm just hoping Anjali didn't say anything.

"I hope my sister didn't say anything to disturb you," he said. "She can be a bit...."

I shook my head. "No."

"Khushi!"

We looked up and saw Buaji.

"Come inside please."

I nodded and she went in.

"Guess thats the cue," I said.

He nodded and held his hand out. I looked at his hand and then at him. He was looking right back at me and slowly I placed my hand in his, held it, stood up, and then let go of it quickly because it was as like as if I had felt a spark. We walked back to the house not saying anything.

When we got back inside, I found my family beaming.

"Of course we'll be there," Babuji smiled.

Nani beamed. "Great! Friday it is then."

Babuji nodded.

Both Arnav and I looked at them.

Anjali came to my side and beamed. "We're having a party on Friday evening and you must come Khushi."

I smiled lightly. "I will."

"So, we'll leave now," Babuji said, putting his hands together.

Anjali slightly nudged me and whispered "if you want to catch Chote's attention that day, wear red," and she smiled.

I looked at her and then at my anarkali. Oh. Em. Gee!

Nani smiled and then looked at Arnav. "Chote, take them to the car," she smiled.

Arnav nodded and led us out. Amma and Babuji walked in front and Buaji and I walked behind them, Arnav behind us.

Buaji tugged slightly on my hand. "Like him?"

I looked her. "Buaji please."

Buaji chuckled. "Sorry."

Arnav brought us to the car and we all got in. We bid our goodbyes and the car pulled away. I looked back once and saw him looking at the car, on the phone.

Hmm... maybe he really is a busy man. But is that a good thing for me :/

Chapter Six

Standing in front of my mirror, I looked myself up and down. Today we're going to that guy's place Amma mentioned two days before. Apparently, the guy is rich, and I mean stinking rich! I told Amma to call it off cause I dont wanna marry a stuck up rich snob, but she said that the family is really nice. Taking her word, I agreed.

I turned around and checked to make sure the inner layer of my red anarkali was down and not bunched up. I placed my dupatta over my left shoulder checked my makeup and left my room.

We got in the car and arrived to a beautiful mansion. There were some workers working in the garden and the plants looked so well taken cared of. We entered and Babuji rang the bell. A worker opened the door and greeted us. He looked well dressed, so I'm guessing these people are nice to their workers.

The man led us into the living room and seated us down, Amma and Babuji sitting down on a sofa together and Buaji and I sitting on a sofa together. As we waited, I looked around and scanned as much of the house as I could see. It was extremely beautiful and spacious, everything neat and clean and in their space.

Just then I heard footsteps and looked up to see an elderly woman come down. She was wearing a very light pink and white sari and she was smiling sweetly. We all got up and greeted.

"Namaste," she smiled. "Thank you so much for coming."

She gestured us to sit back down and we did, her sitting across us.

"I'm Deviyani Raizada," the elderly woman said.

"My name is Kabir," Babuji said. This is my wife Kajol, my sister Madhumati, and my daughter, Khushi."

I put my hands together again and slightly nodded once.

The woman smiled. "Such a sweet looking girl. She seems so cultural! These days, all you see are girls wearing those small foreign dresses," she shook her head.

I'm guessing I'm somewhat approved?

"I'll call the others." She turned to look upstairs. "Anjali betiyan," she called out.

"Ayi Nani!"

In few minutes, a girl appeared. She looked a little older than me, wearing a light blue sari. Her parting was filled and she had a nuptial necklace, so I know off the bat that she's married. So she must be older than the guy.

She joined us and smiled really sweetly. "Namaste," she chirped. "I'm Anjali."

We all nodded and the elderly woman introduced us to her. When she introduced me, Anjali chirped up.

"Oh, you're Khushi!" She came over to my side and sat down beside me. "If all goes well with you and my little brother, then I'll be your bhabi, and you can call me Di."

Little brother, eh? So that means the elderly woman would be my future nani in-law.

"At the moment my son, bahu, and grandson are away in Lucknow," Nani said.

Buaji chimed in. "Lucknow? You're from Lucknow?"

"Yeah."

"We're also from Lucknow," Buaji exclaimed, and I knew then and there that she had already accepted the marriage without seeing the guy.

"Oh my gosh! Really," Nani asked.

Buaji went off with Lucknow talk with Nani. Anjali had left and came back with food and seriously, there's this weird feeling in me that's going on, making me feel... nyeh.

"I'll call my grandson down," Nani said. "Chote," she called out.

'Chote?' What in the world...? Who names their kid 'Chote'?

Suddenly I felt a soft breeze. I felt the small hairs on my neck rising, giving me goosebumps. I felt this weird vibe course through me, but it wasn't a bad one. It felt good, but I had no idea what it could be.

I looked up and saw a guy walking towards the stairs. I couldn't see his face and i was feeling curious about this guy. Then Anjali got up and went towards the stairs. Nani got up as well and so did we, and we turned towards the stairs, Buaji and I in the back of the group.

I looked down, not exactly feeling sure of these feelings I'm getting. I mean why am I randomly getting these feelings? Maybe it's from breakfast. Yeah, it must be that.

Anjali smiled. "This is my little brother, my Chote, Arnav."

I looked up and my jaw dropped. I had to quickly compose myself before anyone saw, but still, my mouth slacked. This guy was gorgeous! In every way gorgeous! And he was dressed up, all official and business type. He was wearing a navy blue button-down shirt, a black waistcoat, black suit pants, and shiny, polished black leather shoes. His hair was slightly gelled up in that typical mohawkish way guys like, his face clear of grizzles.

Though I'm positive that if he were to have grizzles, he'd look sexy!

Buaji nudged me and I looked at her.

"Close your mouth," Buaji whispered so only we'd hear. "I know you like him, but still, you have to look decent," she teased.

I shut my mouth and looked away. Crap! Buaji figured out!

Anjali brought him over to Nani, and she moved beside him so that he was in between the ladies.

"His name is Arnav, but we lovingly call him Chote," Nani explained.

We nodded in acknowledgement and we all sat down. I snuck a glance at him and his expression read 'how long will this be?'.

Hmm.

"Chote," Anjali began, "this is Khushi, and Khushi, this is my brother Arnav."

He slightly smiled, just curling the corner of his lip slightly and I nodded once with a light smile. He looked away and my parents and Buaji began their so called 'interview', which I really think is an interrogation.

All the while, I zoned off, not hearing a single thing. I didn't pay attention to anything they were saying, but just observed him. He looked serious, yet laid back, if that's even possible. He looks like a man who takes his work really seriously. He's definitely not a push-over, and with the way his sister keeps beaming at him and she says stuff now and then and he responds, I know for a fact that he loves his sister very much.

"What do you say Khushi?"

I came back to earth and looked at Anjali. "Me?"

"I mean, I think it would better if these two spoke," she said looking at the others. "It is their lives and if all goes well, then they should get to know each other." She looked at Nani. "What do you say Nani?"

Nani nodded. "I agree. What do you say Kabir beta?"

Babuji nodded. "Sure."

Anjali smiled and stood up. "I'll take them somewhere to talk then." She came over to me. "Khushi, come with me."

I stood up and smiled humbly.

"Chote, you too," she smiled.

He stood up and Anjali led us out. I walked beside Anjali as Arnav walked behind us. I felt awkward, even though I really shouldn't be, yet I am! Anjali led us out to the backyard, over to a swing.

"Why don't you two sit here," Anjali said, "and I'll go bring tea for you two, hmm?"

What? Leave me? With Mr. Hot Stuff? Uh....

I just nodded, not having any other options. Anjali smiled and then looked at her brother and smiled at him, and then she left. The both of us just looked at her and then when she was out of sight, it just got awkward.

Sigh... well, let the games begin?

Chapter Five

When I arrived to work, I asked Melissa for Lavanya. She told me to go to the 33rd floor. When I arrived to the floor there was another reception desk and I asked for Lavanya. The woman stood up and and led me to a room where Lavanya was seated at behind the desk.

"Hi Khushi," she smiled.

The woman left.

"Hi," I smiled.

"So are you ready for your first day?"

"Ready as I'll ever be."

"Great."

We walked out and she led me to a big room. There were a bunch of desks with people working there. There was an empty desk and we walked towards it.

"This will be your desk," Lavanya said. "You'll do all your work here."

"Okay."

"If you need anything or have any questions, just tell me."

"Well, I do have one question."

"Hmm?"

"Whose up there," I asked, pointing at room that went up some stairs surrounded by glass walls."

"That's our boss's room."

"Is he really that... cold?"

"Yeah. No one dares to mess with him. And he can get pretty furious sometimes."

"That bad, huh?"

"Yeah. That bad."

"Is he here yet?"

"No. But he will be."

"Hmm. Haven't seen him yet."

"Well, you'd be surprised when you see him. He's really hot, but he's very hard to get through."

"Dayum."

"You bet. Oh yeah, so to get you started, let me take you to the file room."

I followed her to a room and listened to everything she had to say. When we got back, we saw everyone sitting back down.

"Why were you up," Lavanya asked one of them. "Did Sir arrive?"

"Yeah. And he doesn't really seem to be in the mood."

Lavanya sighed. "Okay." She looked at me. "You better get to work."

"No problem."

*~*

Once I had managed to get things going, it was a breeze. The morning went and then it was time for lunch. I headed to the staff lounge and got a cup of coffee.

"How are you holding up," Lavanya asked when she joined me.

"Great. Though it's a lot," I chuckled.

"Yeah. Wanna go out and get something from the deli?"

"Sure."

We went out and went to the deli across the sweet. We each got subs and went back to the lounge. We spoke and ate and it turns out Lavanya is 26 and wants to be a fashion designer. She's been working here three years also and hopes that someday her luck will change.

"Well I wish you the best of luck," I said.

"Thanks. And I wish you the best working here."

"Thanks."

We got up and went back to our work. The receptionist came towards us.

"Ma'am," she said to Lavanya, "Sir has left."

"What? Why," Lavanya asked.

"I don't know. He said he had to go home and he didn't look so happy."

"As if he ever is," she said below her breath.

But we heard and the receptionist hmm-d.

"Okay. Fine. You go back to your work," Lavanya said.

"Okay."

When she left I nudged Lavanya. "Wow. You have some control."

"Only because I'm his personal assistant."

"Could you be more," I teased.

"As if. And no way! I'm taken."

I gasped. "Who is he?"

Lavanya turned and scanned the room. "Him," she said, pointing at a guy.

He was wearing a light blue button down and black pants. He looked up at us and nodded his head. Lavanya waved back at him and he smiled.

"Thats him," I asked.

"Yup," she smiled.

"What's his name?"

"Aman. He's another one of Sir's personal assistants. Though he's higher than me."

"'Higher?'"

"Whenever Sir needs something, be it at home or work, he usually calls up Aman and has him do the work. I do some but that's only when he's here."

"Oh. Wow."

"Aman's just so cute!"

"You're lucky you have a boyfriend at least."

"What do you mean? Do you have a boyfriend?"

I shook my head.

"Did you guys break up?"

"I've never had a boyfriend."

Lavanya gasped. "What?! As in never ever?!"

I shook my head, embarrassed.

"Oh, poor you."

"Yeah... and now my parents are trying to get me married."

"What?"

I told her the whole story and Lavanya hmm-d.

"Well, best of luck on finding your Mr. Perfect," Lavanya said.

"Thanks," I smiled humbly.

Chapter Four

Wow. Just simply, wow. This whole building is just beautiful. And the decorations! So high class! Meaning a boss that doesn't mess around.

Good.

I followed the lady's instructions from the front desk and went up to the 29th floor. There, I saw some other women. They looked at me as I signed my name in and then seated myself. There was a good 7 or 8 people here.

A woman came out, wearing a dark blue blouse and black pants. She looked about my age, maybe a year or two older.

"Hi," she said. "I'm Lavanya, the boss's PA. I will call you up one at a time and then take you into the room so he may interview you. Understood?"

We all nodded.

"Good. I'll start off with the first name."

One by one, a girl went in. We waited out here but I noticed every time those girls came out, they each had a look on their face. It was weird and I wonder if the boss is rude or something.

"Khushi Kumari Gupta," Lavanya called.

I got up. "Thats me, hi."

She nodded. "Follow me."

As she walked me in, the girl who went before me, Neha or whatever, was coming out, rolling her eyes, looking mad.

I stopped her and asked "is he that bad?"

She snorted. "Please. The jerk wouldn't even turn around his chair and face me," and she left.

Oh....

Lavanya led me into a room. It wasn't much, and there was a desk ahead with a chair facing the other way. Lavanya Left and I stood there awkwardly.

"Please be seated," the man's voice said.

Whoa dear.

I sat down and made sure I was sitting up and straight.

"Khushi Kumari Gupta. Age 24. Majored in accounting. Correct?"

"Yes Sir."

"Hmm.... I like what I see in your profile here," he said, holding a file up. "Recently graduated. Meaning fresh from college with full knowledge. Most of these people are probably a year or two older than you. But still that lacks knowledge. I don't want idiots..."

Whoa!

"... so you know what, I'm hiring you."

What?! "I'm sorry, what? Sir."

"You're hired. I'll let Lavanya know and she'll tell you what you need to know."

"Wow! Thank you so much Sir!"

"You may leave now."

Um... okay! I left the room and Lavanya smiled at me.

"Congratulation."

"Thank you," I smiled.

"So, Sir says you can start tomorrow if you'd like. Or you may start fresh next week."

"Um... tomorrows fine."

"Great. When you come in tomorrow, just ask Melissa, the girl at the front desk, for me and she'll tell you and then just come up and into my room. 'Kay?"

"Sure."

"Great. See you tomorrow then."

I nodded. "Thanks."

*~*

Buaji shrieked when I gave her the news. Amma and Babuji were happy as well and they threw me a small party. Babuji ordered a small cake and it was simply delicious!

"Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you Khushi," Amma said.

"Forgot to tell me what?"

"The day after tomorrow, we're going to another proposal."

I groaned. "Really Amma?"

"What," she said innocently. "This was planned from before."

"Ugh... fine!"

"And this time, it'll be better. I'm sure of it."

"Which means it won't be." I put my hands together. "Hai DM, raksha karna."

Amma hit my head. "Pagal."

Well, let's see how that goes. But for now, I'll focus on my first day.

Chapter Three

Another day, another proposal. This time we went to a very big house, that looked like a frigging mansion. And by judgement of spec clean, all shiny, extravagant decor, I know this type as well - rich folks.

Workers were everywhere and we were brought in by one to be seated in the living room. The four of us waited and then in came an elderly woman, looking about my mother's age or older. She was in, what looked like weighed a ton, sari, with way over the top makeup to make her look white, and OD lipstick.

"Welcome to my home," she smiled.

She walked in and seated herself down in the middle of the sofa in front of us.

"That man painted in the portrait above the fireplace is my late-husband."

Wait, she's a widow? And she's dressed like this?

"Allow me to let you meet my son."

Um....

"Shekar! Shekar beta!"

In came a guy in jeans and a button down. Outfit, I like! But he was on his phone and continued to be on his phone, making my parents and Buaji glance at each other.

"He's such a busy man," his mother said. "Ever since his father passed away, he's taken over the family business and he's always busy," she gloated.

"Always," I asked.

"Of course! I mean if he doesn't, then we'll be one of the poor-riches," she wailed.

"Poor-riches?"

"Well we can't be poor! If we're poor, we'll loose our house and I'll loose all my jewelry and clothes!"

I stood up. "Sorry, but I don't want to marry into an arrogant family."

She shot up. "Excuse me?"

Everyone else got up.

"Khushi," Amma warned.

"Sorry," I said again, "but for someone who is a widow, you sure are overdressed. Though I don't agree that a widow should become an outcast and wear white, I do think she should at least have some respect of that. The way I'm thinking it, it seems like to me that you married your husband for just his money."

She gasped dramatically and place her hand at her chest like a drama queen.

I rolled my eyes. "Yeah, we're leaving."

*~*

Since that didn't go well and Amma didn't like my attitude, though Buaji was proud, we didn't go to any others. The week after, we went to another one, meaning guy number four.

"My son Bantu loves to eat," his mother beamed.

Uh...-

"He loves Indian, American, Thai, Chinese, French, Italian-"

"Please don't say anymore," I said nicely.

The guy looked at me. "What can you cook?"

"Excuse me?"

"Well to get his needs, we want a bahu who can cook a variety of things," his mother smiled.

A little boy came in with a tablet in his hands.

"Um, excuse me? Little boy?"

He turned and looked at me, pushing his glasses up.

"Yes," he simply said.

"Hi. May use your tablet for just a minute?"

He nodded and came over to me. He gestured me to lean down. Once I did, he whispered in my ear.

"Don't marry my brother," he whispered. "You're too pretty and all he does is eat."

I looked at him and smiled sweetly. "You're so sweet."

"I know," he said, looking proud, and I had to giggle.

He handed me his tablet and I quickly went on the Google Chrome app, seeing he was connected to Wi-Fi. Once I was done, I handed Mr. Fancy Feast the tablet.

"What is this," he asked, looking at the tablet like he has no idea what it is.

Ugh. Slow on technology? Oh hell nah! Definitely can NOT be my husband. I want an upgraded husband, who knows good technology.

"That's a tablet. And the site, is Food Network. There you can search up an kind of dish. Indian, American, Italian, whatever. And you cook it yourself."

His mom and him looked at me while the little brother snickered.

"You don't need a wife," I smiled really sweetly, "you need a chef."

I got up and looked at my folks. "Shall we leave?"

*~*

At dinner, we were all laughing.

"Seriously Kajol, where did you find this guy," Buaji asked.

"Mrs. Verma told me about him Jiji! What did I know?"

We laughed again.

*~*

Week after week, we went to numerous guys' houses. It was insane! And none of them went under my approval! One seemed okay, but he had a girlfriend and I didn't want to come in between that. So that was another one out the door, making it a total of 31 denied.

Sigh... this is too much.

*~*

We had dinner together and talked about the day. This time it was quite interesting actually. They had the guy and me go talk alone and he confessed to me that he thought he was gay. When I told my folks that, Amma nearly freaked! We laughed about Amma's actions and she felt slightly embarrassed.

Once dinner was done, I went to my room and sat on the windowsill.

"Titaliya?"

I turned and saw Buaji at the door.

"Aiye na, Buaji."

She came in and stood in front of me. "Ka soch rahi ho?"

I sighed. "Nothing. Just that...."

"That?"

"Well, Buaji, I... I thought even though my whole life I've never had a boyfriend, I thought... I thought I'd at least meet Mr. Perfect through this... this "hunt", if you wanna call it that."

I told Buaji everything ever since I was little. She was one person I very well trusted. And Buaji always heard everything I had to tell her. Be it some drama at school or just some school assignment.

"It's okay Titaliya," Buaji said, "you'll find him."

"And if I don't?"

She gasped. "Then what is your Buaji here for?"

I giggled. "You're the best Buaji," and I hugged her tightly.

"You too," she smiled and then let go of me. "Now quickly go to bed. You have an interview tomorrow."

I gasped. "OMG Buaji, I completely forgot! Holy...! Crap! What am I going to wear?! I completely forgot, now I have nothing to wear and if I don't have anything to wear, I'll end up being naked! And if I end up being naked, I'll go outside naked. And if I go outside naked, I'll go to the interview naked. And if I go to the interview naked, what will they think of me?! And-"

"This is why I call you 'Sanka Devi'," and she hit my head. "Pagal! I have your clothes ready."

I hugged her way to tightly. "Oh Buaji, you're the best! Where'd you put it?"

"Behind... your... closet door," she breathed.

Oh, I'm suffocating her, aren't I? I quickly let go of her and went to my closet. I saw the white blouse and black pants she had set for me.

Great! Going for the official business look. And of course accessorize a bit, if I may =D

"Are you ready for tomorrow," Buaji asked.

"You bet," I winked.

Chapter Two

My mother is unbelievable! The next day, we went to another one!

We pulled up to a very big house. It looked old, in fact, ancient. As we entered and went under an arc, we came to a center. Seated in the middle was an elder woman. Another woman came out and greeted us, turning out to be the mother of the guy I'm supposed to see. She sat us down and had workers serve food.

As we ate, more and more people appeared. And it came to point where it got ridiculous! Brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, first cousins, second cousins, third cousins, grandmas, grandpas, great grandmas, great grandpas, and so on. So basically, It's one big family all together.

Great. I mean, not that I have a problem with a family living together. But for this many? Meh.... I want a family, yes, but not this many, but not too little either.

We finished eating and Amma and I went to wash our hands.

"What do you think," Amma whispered to me once we were left alone. "Of Vishnu?"

"Of this guy? As if," I said, rolling my eyes.

"Same."

I looked at her. "Wow 'ma, you're saying this?"

She nodded.

"Good." I wiped my hands dry. "Let's leave."

*~*

"I didn't think they were so bad," Babuji said.

"Babuji, that family is too huge!"

"So what?"

"Not my type."

"What? Why not?"

I groaned. "I need an expert with me."

"Don't worry titaliya..."

*Gasp* I know that voice! I quickly looked up and grinned like an idiot.

"... I have your back."

"Buaji," I shrieked and charged at her, hugging her tightly. She hugged me back and my parents joined us.

"Jiji, what are you doing here," Babuji asked.

"How rude," Amma remarked.

"Oh, not a big deal Kajol," Buaji said. "He's always been like that. I haven't told you every embarrassing childhood story."

"Jiji," Babuji warned.

"I'm here to find my titaliya's husband, what else?"

"But why? It's okay, we have it-"

"Nonsense! It's my Sanka Devi's life we're talking about!"

Man, you just gotta love this woman. My dad always tells me that when I was younger, I was a quiet sweetheart. But once Buaji kept coming into the picture, since her husband had passed away, he said that I became, well, the way I am =D

But now I know that everything will be great.

Chapter One

"Khushi! Hurry down! We're about to leave!!!"

Yeah, yeah, I'm coming. Quickly putting my earrings on I checked my hair and headed downstairs. Even though I'm not exactly so interested in this guy, that doesn't mean I make myself look bad =D

Going downstairs, I joined my parents and we headed to the car and our driver drove us to the guy's house. It looked nice, decent... yeah =D Babuji rang the doorbell and a woman opened it.

"Hello! Come in, come in," she chirped.

She led us in and led us into the living room. She sat us down and she sat down with us. Apparently, she's the mom, and if successful, my future mother in-law.

"So this is Khushi," she chirped.

I put my hands together. "Namaste," I slightly smiled.

She smiled. "So beautiful, so cute!"

Uh....

"Let me call my son," she smiled sweetly. "Ranjeet," she hollered, putting an emphasis on the "t".

"Haan Mumiji," a voice called back.

"Come down beta."

In came a guy, all dressed up in a light cream-colored sherwani. His hair was properly combed and by first sight, I knew his type - Mama's boy -___- Just great.

"Greet them," his mother said.

He nodded and put his hands together, smiling too much. Ugh, can I leave?

The parents talked, but I paid no attention. I looked for a distraction everywhere. I even followed a fly! When it left the room, I looked back at the guy and saw him playing with his mother's pallu.

Alright! That's it!

Good thing my father said we were leaving.

*~*

That night at dinner, my mother began her inquiry.

"So, what did you think of that boy?"

I looked up. "Terrible."

"What? How? I thought he was sweet."

"Sure. A kid that listens to his mother. Every mother's dream."

Babuji snickered and Amma slapped his hand.

"Not funny Kabir."

He snickered again. "I'd say it is Kajol."

Amma twitched her lips.

"Amma, I'm not marrying that guy. He's a fail! If I marry him, if I ask him to do something, then he'll go running to his mom!"

"So? And what would you ask him?"

"Oh please, like you don't know, trying to boss Babuji all day?"

"Khushi," she said in a warning voice.

"What? I'm just saying. Besides, what if I ask him to do something sweet. You know, like a dinner for two? He'll be all like Mumiji! May I take my wife out for dinner?" I crossed my arms.

Babuji smirked lightly. "Though I don't know how I feel about that," he looked at Amma, "she has a point," he said, waving his spoon of kheer.

Amma looked at us both and then sighed. "Okay fine! So boy number one is out!"

"Good," I smiled.

Prologue

Hi! I'm Khushi. I'm 24, recently graduated with a Master's degree on Accounting. I live with my parents, being an only child. Next door, lives my best friend and most favorite cousin, Payal, with her parents.

For years, all I've ever wanted is what the typical girl wants - love. But, unfortunately, my kismet just didn't have that. I never met Mr. Perfect. All my life, I looked for that distraction, yet it never happened.

And now, finally graduating from school, my parents are trying to push me into the next phase of life - marriage. See, once I became 20, my parents began to urge me to get married. They said something like when a girl turns 22, then they're apparently "too old" for marriage. What crap!

So I told them that if they continue to, then I'll run away. Of course, they didn't believe me, so for an entire 24 hours, I had disappeared. That was an interesting day though. I spent my day going from one friend's to another's place and spent my day in the city.

So my parents budged and agreed to my terms - not to bug me about marriage until I get my master's. And since I did, it was like my parents were finally released from a slingshot!

And so, the proposals began. My mother let everyone know that they were looking for a groom for me and to tell them if they knew of any eligible bachelor. And so, people came in with many proposals. To think how many people they know. Yeesh!

My parents now have a list and we're going to go meet these people. But let me tell you, I'm not so much of a "tamed" girl. I mean yeah, I can be cutesy and quiet and calm and shy, and all those things! But if there's something that bothers me, then I won't hold back; I will say something.

But I'm hoping- desperately hoping, for my Mr. Perfect to be discovered in this little "quest". I mean I've never had a boyfriend! Don't I at least deserve a little bit of love, if not a lot?

Well, whatever it is that's in store, I'm ready for it. So all you men I'm about to go meet, you better. Watch. Out ;-)