Chapter Twelve

"They don't know what they missed."

That line just kept repeating in my head. I had already gotten home, showered and was ready for bed. I was out in the back putting my wet clothes on the clothes line. Up above, the stars were shining brightly. They twinkled and I leaned against the patio and gazed at them.

"And I look forward to tomorrow."

I snapped out of thought and stood straight. He looks forward to tomorrow! For me!

What in the world?!

I went running back in.

"Khushi," Amma called out, but I dashed away.

"Sanka Devi," Buaji hollered, but I had no time.

I ran up to my room, closed the door, and ran to my closet. I took everything I owned out of the closet. I put my red cholis in one pile, my red saris in another, and the rest in its own pile. I placed each choli over me and sari to figure out which one would look better on me.

"I think a sari would be better."

I jumped and turned and saw Buaji at my door.

I placed my hand over my chest. "You have got to stop doing that!"

Buaji chuckled and came in, shutting the door behind, locking it.

Why didn't I just do that? -____-

Buaji looked at the piles. "So red is his favorite color, eh?"

I looked at Buaji. "How'd you know?"

"By your piles." She sighed. "Its obvious, I mean come on, we've all done this before - me, your mother, etc."

"Even Choti Ma?"

"Everyone, even Garima. But it's okay - we understand from this that you're serious about him."

I blushed, which I usually don't do around Buaji. Buaji chuckled and I made a face.

"Well help me," I exclaimed.

Buaji chuckled even more. "If I were you, I'd go with a sari." She leaned forward. "Show off some skin and that hourglass figure," she winked.

I gasped. "Buaji!"

She laughed like a little girl and left. I shook my head as she shut the door and looked at the saris. I did have a sari in mind, so I guess I'll go with that.

I stood in front of the mirror and took a deep breath. "I hope this works."

Suddenly, I felt my heart beat.

Dhak-dhak! Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak! Dhak-dhak!

Whoa boy! What in the world is happening to me?

*~*

The next day, Amma was on edge. She was asking everyone what she should wear and I find it funny because this is my proposal we're talking about, not hers. But she was like how she wanted to impress them so I guess it's understandable.

Buaji had already gotten ready and she came into my room. When she did, she widened her eyes.

"Sanka Devi, why aren't you dressed yet?!"

I was sitting on my bed and I looked up at her. "I don't know," I whispered.

Buaji came over to me and sat beside me. "What's wrong," she asked softly.

"I dunno... I'm just... I guess I'm... nervous."

"And why is that," Buaji asked as she grabbed my brush and began to brush my hair.

"I... I guess it's because... I don't know," and I looked down.

"You really like this guy, don't you?"

"Well... I guess... I guess I do like him."

"So then what's the problem?"

"Buaji... there's something I didn't tell you guys."

Buaji turned to see my face.

"Um... the truth is... Arnav, well... he's actually...."

"He's actually what?" She gasped. "Please don't tell me he's gay!!"

"NO! Of course not! Buaji!!"

Buaji sighed in relief. "Thank goodness. That would've been bad for you."

I shook my head, ignoring what she said "No, Buaji, it's not something like that. Actually... well, he's-my-boss," I blurted.

Buaji's eyes widened. "What?!"

I told her the whole story and she got lost in thought.

"So why did he do it," she asked. "It means he knew who you were from the start."

"I know." I sighed. "I don't know what to really think. But...."

"But what?"

"I don't know, he said that he looked forward to seeing me tonight."

"Did he now?"

I nodded.

"Then good. If you two get a chance alone, then you two can speak."

"Buaji, we already did, remember?"

"Hmm.... Well there's a reason why he met you," she looked at me with a sly expression, "and I get a feeling that he has an interest in you. Otherwise why dance with you?" She smirked slightly. "Get dressed fast - we don't want Prince Charming waiting too long," she winked and left.

I just blinked. What just happened?

Instead, I started to get ready. I did my makeup first and then worked on getting my sari on. I always had an interest in saris because I wondered how you actually get them on. Other than that, I also love cultural stuff, so yeah =)

When I came down, I saw Amma, Babuji, and Buaji waiting in the living room.

"Oh my gosh, look at my baby," Amma shrieked.

"Amma," I whined.

She came over to me and hugged me. "My baby looks so grown up and so beautiful!"

"Babuji, shes acting the same way she did when I went to prom!"

Babuji chuckled. "Let her have her moment."

Soon after Amma was done shrieking and shrilling, we left to Raizada Mansion.

Hmm, what a title.

When we got there, there were several cars there. Yikes! Many people? Oh no!

When we came inside, Nani found us instantly and came over to us. We greeted and I got her blessings and she introduced us to some people. Pretty soon, Anjali came and joined us. Thankfully, she took me away from the adults.

"It's no prob," she said. "Why should my sister in-law- sorry, soon-to-be sister in-law, have to suffer.

I blushed.

"I hear you work for Chote also."

I looked at her wide eyed and she giggled.

"I know everything," she winked.

And I blushed harder.

"Rani Saheba!"

Anjali turned an I followed her gaze to see a man coming our way. He walked over to Anjali's side and held her around her waist, protectively.

"Now you come," Anjali asked, pouting and looking the other way.

"Sorry, but it was a call from-"

"Hmph! I don't care," and she crossed her arms.

The guy leaned down and whispered something in her ear that I couldn't hear. Anjali's eyes widened and she looked at him.

"Really," she asked.

He nodded.

Anjali held his arm tightly. "Better." She looked at me. "Oh yeah, Khushi, this is my husband Rohan. Rohan, this is, fingers-crossed, Chote's future wife."

I put my hands together and he nodded his head.

"I think she's perfect for him," Anjali chirped.

"If she can get him away from that laptop, then yes," he chuckled. "Speaking of him, where is he?"

"Uh- look! Took his name, and he's here."

We looked up at the stairs, as well as did everyone else. There was Arnav, coming down the stairs, looking like his official-self, just like he did at work. All suited up in Armani with a royal blue silk tie, he looked jaw-droppingly sexy.

Had I not controlled myself, I'd be drooling like a bulldog.

I know, gross. Yet true O=)

Arnav came down the stairs and Nani stood at the end. He held his arm out and Nani held it. She gave a brief introduction to everyone and thanked them for coming to the party. For a brief moment, our eyes met and I had to look away. There was just this intensity and vibe that I would get from him and I don't understand it, let alone know how to handle it. When Nani ended her greeting, Arnav moved away from her and headed our way.

Dhakdhakdhakdhakdhak!

What in the world?!

Dhakdhakdhakdhakdhakdhak!!

What the hell is going on?!

Dhakdhakdhakdhakdhakdhakdhak!!!

Withe each step the man took, moving closer and closer to us, my heart acted even more radical.

Hai DM, what's happening to me?!!

Chapter Eleven

The music slowed down and it was time for the couple-dances. Lavanya and I left the dance floor and couples began to take over the floor.

"Hey babe."

We both turned around and saw Aman.

"Hi baby," Lavanya beamed, and the two kissed.

"Hey Khushi."

"Hey," I smiled.

Aman looked at Lavanya. "May have this dance," Aman asked, holding his hand out.

Lavanya looked at it and then at me. "No, that's okay. I don't wanna leave Khushi alone-"

"Please, don't stop because of me," I said. "Go ahead."

"You sure?"

I nodded. "Of course."

Lavanya slightly curved the corner of her lips and then took Aman's hand.

"Thanks," Aman said, as he took her away.

I smiled as I watched the couple dance. All the couples looked simply adorable!

Sigh... will I ever get the chance to do this?

"May have the pleasure of this dance," someone asked me.

"Actually I-"

I turned around and saw Arnav. My eyes dilated as I stared into his chocolate, brown eyes. I looked down and saw his hand held out to me. I looked back up at him and noticed from the corner of my eyes that people were looking at us.

Hesitantly, I placed my hand in his. He held it firmly and led me to the dance floor. He placed his right hand on my waist, giving me shivers up my spine, making me lean in closer. I placed my left hand on his shoulder and we began to dance.

The entire time we danced, I looked right at him and he looked right at me. I don't know what his deal is, but I felt very confused. What's going on? I mean why is he asking me to dance with him? Why did he give me the job? Was everything all planned out?

I'm so confused!!

The song ended and we stopped. I lightly smiled and he tilted his head slightly and nodded. I walked away immediately and needed a drink, so I went to the bar. Lavanya and Aman joined me soon enough and even though there was a conversation going on, I was completely off. I just felt so confused!

"Khushi? You okay," Aman asked.

"Huh? Oh, yeah, I am."

"You don't seem like it," Lavanya said.

"I-it's nothing. Um, I just need some fresh air, so I'm gonna step out back."

The two nodded and I walked out to the back. I looked out at the garden below as I stood on the patio. I was staring up at the star-filled sky, when I heard someone.

"Yeah Di, I know."

I froze and my eyes widened. Oh please no.

"Seriously Di, where's Jeejaji?"

He didn't say anything and I saw him go down and to the garden.

"So he stops you from nagging me. ... yes I did just say that. ... oh please Di. ... I know. Now I gotta go, 'kay? Bye."

Arnav hung up and turned and saw me looking at him. I flinched and quickly looked away.

"You know I saw you looking at me, right," he asked.

I looked at him wide eyed. "What?"

Could my voice be any smaller? -_-

He smirked lightly and came up and beside me and leaned against the railing. "I'm sure you have questions," he said, looking out to the sky.

I blinked at him. "Yeah. I do," I said softly.

He looked at me.

"And... and I'm really confused."

"Because...?"

"Because of you."

"Me?"

"Yeah."

"Hmm... then what would you like cleared out?"

"Well, why did you give me the job?"

Arnav smirked lightly. "I think I already told you this - fresh mind out of college."

"But you knew who I was when I met you at your house that day... right?"

"Yeah, I did."

"And you didn't say anything. I mean, didn't you find it weird and what not?"

"Actually, my sister and Nani had randomly told me and my sister forced me not to go to work that day. Then she told me your name and some background info and I figured you were the same person."

"And you agreed to meet me?"

Arnav nodded.

"Why?"

Arnav looked at me and I gulped.

"That's because of my sister - I had no choice."

"Oh...."

Oddly enough, I was very disappointed, but I didn't show it. ... okay maybe a little bit, since i looked away.

"But it was interesting meeting you."

I looked up at him.

"And I look forward to tomorrow."

He turned to walk away when I spoke.

"Whoa whoa, wait."

Arnav turned and looked at me.

"You found me interesting?" I snorted. "How," I asked, laughing at myself.

"Why not? You sure are something."

I scrunched my eyebrows. "Me? As if," and I rolled my eyes.

"I'm sure many guys have told you this before, Khushi."

I looked down at the ground, embarrassed, and shook my head. "No."

Damn, my voice went small again!

Arnav scrunched his eyebrows. "What? Are you serious?"

I looked up at him, embarrassed. "I've never had a boyfriend so..." and I blushed.

Arnav looked shocked. "Wow. Some people don't know what they missed."

I blushed harder. "Not really."

Arnav walked my way and tucked a strand of my hair behind my ear, making me look at his hand and then at him, wide eyed.

"They don't know what they missed," he restated and then he walked away.

It took a minute to remember that I needed to breathe, and took a deep breath and held the railing for support.

Holy....



How was that?
How was it?
Hmm? Hmm? LOL
Don't forget to like and comment what you think :D
Till next time ;)

NOTE: please comment what you'd like in your ideal "mr. perfect"

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?