Part 109

"Raj!" called out papaji. Raj turned! "We are having a meeting with panditji..." said papaji.
"Meeting?" Raj wondered. He knew how weird his father was. All the five panditji gathered in the room with papaji and Raj.

"Pandit ji... with due respect to all of you, I would like to suggest that the wedding be done with all the rituals and no shortcuts." Said papaji bowing his head before the pundits.  Raj followed.

"Yes! " said the elderly Pandit raising his hand to bless Raj and Papaji.
"It will be our honor to do so! There are very few families now a days, wanting the wedding with full rituals. I will make sure of its sanctity. I will explain every ritual if you want!" said the elderly Pandit looking at others for their approval. They all nodded smiling.

"Its... I mean... I want people to know the significance of our marriages. My son in law, I want him to understand the meaning of being together, understand the marriage. She is my dear daughter.. I want her to know everything. I.. I want her to be happy and be blessed by the almighty God and all the people. I want .... Her... to be blessed by stalwarts like you...!" said papaji incoherently, losing his composure.

"DAD!... !" Raj tried to hold papaji's hand. Tears were rolling down papaji's eyes and disappearing in his moustache and beard. He raised his hand to stop Raj. A tear drop fell on his knuckle.

He looked shocked  and lost at his own tears. "Tear?... But I am happy! I am very happy ... !" said papaji quivering and looking confused. He looked at Raj helplessly. Raj was staring the floor.  He couldn’t hide his tears....!

"You carry on.. I will be right back!" said papaji suddenly getting up and going out! Raj gaped at his father. He had never seen him in such a state, in such a vulnerable condition.

"What have I done to him!! I have unhinged, disquieted, distressed him with my actions! He might have broken down completely when I walked out of his life, ten years back! It might have taken its toll on him. Mom crippled physically, but Dad? He broke from within, never showing anything on his face...Oh god! What have I done! Please .. God show me a way to bring those ten years back!" A muffled sob left Raj. He swallowed hard! The elderly pandit was watching intently.

Then he spoke in a deep voice. "You cannot bring the time back, my child! The only thing you can do is try and forget!!"

Raj looked at Panditji in surprise "I am sure, you will help him forget the past, my child!" he said seriously. A faint smile appeared on Raj's face. "Yes!" he said resolutely and getting up, said "I will bring him back!" he turned to leave.

"No need!" said the head pandit raising his hand. "I believe, the meeting is over! And God Bless you!" Raj turned and left to be with his father.

**  **** ****

Raj dashed inside looking for his dad. He found him with Khushi! She was laughing her heart out on his jokes and mummiji was smiling mildly looking at her husband. She knew something was wrong with him. Raj came in and stopped at the door seeing his father laughing and joking with joy. He dashed in and hugged his dad tightly to everybody's surprise. Mummiji understood what was wrong. She turned her wheel chair and went out of the room. Papaji was taken aback by Raj's action. He patted on Raj's back and whispered "I am ok, Raj!"

"Ok? Were you not Ok? What happened? Are you ok papaji?" Khushi asked at once. Raj closed his eyes and flared up his nose. "Shut up, Khushi! Stop poking your nose!" he said looking at her.

"What? He is my papaji, I am asking him! Not you!" she took her stance anticipating and getting ready for the fight on this issue!
"God Bless Arnav!" muttered Raj in frustration and went out grinning with his Dad. She had defused the situation successfully yet again!

*** ***** ****
Sham went out in a car driven by one of the security guards. The other one was sitting next to him. He asked him to stop at the ATM. He got down from the car. The guard followed him closely. Sham desperately wanted to withdraw the money. He inserted his card and keying in his password waited for his balance to appear. To his surprise he got a message "the amount is unavailable for withdrawal" Please contact the nearest branch." He tried several times with the same message.
"What?" he was surprised. He came back to his room and tried to connect to his account. A message appeared on his screen "This account is frozen till further orders!" He was shocked! He tried all his accounts in vain. All his bank accounts were frozen.

He downloaded his mails which he had not done in a week. He had a mail from his boss Mr. Shondeep Banerjee stating that all his powers are withdrawn till he gives a reply to the show cause notice sent to him and he is suspended from his post.

Sham got up in rage. He went to Nani's room and called his wife. She came out hurriedly looking concerned.
"What is it?" she asked. Raani Saaheba! I need money right now! Its urgent! Give me your card!" he held out his hand.

"What? Why? Why do you want money now?" she asked suspiciously for the first time in their married life.
"Its urgent! Raani Saheba! " He said nervously.
"How much?" she asked.
"as much as possible.. in lacs" he said in a whisper.
"What? Lacs?" She screamed in the corridors.
"Shhh! Don't shout!" he held her by her shoulders tightly. She looked frightened.
"B..But you won't be able to withdraw that much from ATM" she said quivering.
"I know! I will withdraw in instalments!" he said looking at her angrily. He saw a room door opening.... He immediately left her and changing his tone said "Raani Saheba! I want it for your sake only!"
"What?" She was surprised with this sudden change.
"But... I don't have my card with me! Its with Chote! Wait I will get it!" she said moving away.

Shondeep had already reached. He was looking at both of them intently.
"Is there any problem?" he asked looking at Sham. Sham's blood boiled with rage. He almost lost his mental balance and coming on to him aggressively he hissed "You are the problem! You froze my accounts!" He had raised his fist to punch Shondeep. Shondeep held his hand and slowly brought it down with a force.

"Calm down Mr. Sham..! These are procedural matters! I had warned you before!" he said authoritatively. Sham could sense Shondeep's grip tightening.
"You will face the consequences..!" Sham threatened Shondeep. Shondeep smiled mildly.
"Mr. Sham it's a procedure. I cannot help. Please be ready to face the inquiry!" He said turning his back on Sham. He saw Anjali going to Arnav's room.

"Chote! Can you give me my card? Your Jijaji needs some money urgently!" she said.
"What? How much?" He asked picking up his wallet from the dressing table and pulling out her card.
"I don't know!" she said helplessly. "Di! Don't worry. I will give him the money! But why does he want it?" asked Arnav placing his hand on her shoulder.
"Wait! I will ask him!" she said taking the card from her brother.

Sham was furious and frustrated! He did not know what to do now! Anjali came back with the card. She handed it over to him. "Chote said he can help! He can give you cash!" she said smiling.
"What? How much?" he asked. "Whatever you want! But why do you want that money?" she asked him again.

"Can he give me five lacs now?" he asked her.
"Why don't you come and ask him?" she said again moving towards Arnav's room. Arnav was waiting at the door. He looked at his Jijaji sternly. Sham could not gauge Arnav.
"Why is he so helpful this time?" he wondered.
"Hello Jijaji! Di told me, you are in need !" said Arnav in a soft voice but his eyes were expressionless.
"Yes!" said Sham eagerly.
"How much?" he asked.
"um.. Five lacs!" replied Sham hesitantly.
"Ok! " said Arnav plainly. Sham was surprised.
"Jijaji, you know I don't do cash dealings. Its very difficult to account for! So I suggest you pass a receipt to that extent mentioning the purpose! Hope you understand!" Arnav said earnestly.
Sham thought for a while and then said "Ok! I will pass a receipt for the same!" Arnav smiled.
"Jijaji, Please get the receipt and I will pay you!" said Arnav.
Sham rushed to his room to prepare a receipt for Five lacs of rupees taken from Arnav Singh Raizada for personal use.
He came back with the receipt and Arnav was ready with the cash.

**** ***** *********
Sham went out again in that night with the security guards and money! He had paid it to a person waiting for him!!!
Arnav was smirking looking at the receipt. Sham had written it on his letterhead. "Dowery demand? On the eve of wedding of BIL !!!!" blurted Arnav before going to bed.

Next day early morning Anjali came to wake Arnav up. "Chote you have to get ready, The wedding ceremony will start soon. Nani is waiting for you!" She said and went out hurriedly. He got ready and went to Nani's room. She said "Chhote.. come here. I will put oil on your head and then you go and take bath!"

"What? OIL" he looked at his Nani. "No! I am not going to put oil on my head!" he said firmly.
"You will have to!" Said Nani holding his hand and pulling him down. He sat unwillingly. Nani took her own time to apply oil on his head and then said... "Take this sandalwood powder and have a nice hot water bath!"

He touched nani's feet and went to his room. When he came out of the bathroom the two persons were waiting for him. He had disgust on his face but had no other choice. It took them quite a time to get Arnav ready. Arnav resisted for the Indian traditional outfit but there was no one to listen to him. Shondeep peeked a couple of times in his room and smirking went away. Anjali was supervising over his makeup.

"Di! Please.. I am not comfortable! Let me wear my normal attire!" he said pleadingly.
"Oh! Chote.. I cannot do anything. Its Khushi's papaji's order... And Ragi is policing outside...!" She said teasing him. The make up artists finished their work and turned Arnav to face the mirror. Arnav couldn't believe his eyes, he was staring at a stranger. He ran his fingers on his dress looking at the mirror.
"Is this me? Arnav Singh Raizada?" he asked himself. He saw Anjali's figure next to him and Regi appeared behind... She had tears in her eyes. "Why do women cry on every occasion?" he wondered. She placed a black spot behind his ear.

“Ho.. ho wait! Mr. ASR!” Regi roared taking out his cell.  “Got to send this to mother.... Her Aru ... ready to be wedded with his sweetheart..!” Regi has his share of teasing and suddenly getting serious, asked,

“By the way, did you tell her that you love her?” he asked loudly and everyone turned to them.  Arnav flushed .... “What?” Regi asked again very loudly above everyone’s snigger...! Arnav looked away...

“I didn’t have to! She knew!” he said under his breath.  “What?” Regi asked him leaning towards him.

“No!” yelled Arnav and suddenly fell silent looking around.

“Oh! Poor Khushi... She doesn’t even know, whether he loves her or not!” Regi pitied Khushi smirking...! He winked at Rekha.  She grinned.  The game was on...!

A Blessed Pagadi (sehra) was tied neatly around his head with pink and white combination and a string of pearls ran through it across. The stiff edge fanned out little skewed to the right over his pagdi. A ruby studded Shir pech was adding grace. His Off white designer Shervani was intricately embroidered with real gold and silver threads and pearls. The thick "Kantha" gold chain hung around his neck with antique maharaja style pendent with a large round ruby at the center. His wrist graced a bracelet. His engagement ring in his left ring finger and a matching ruby studded ring on his right hand ring finger. His white salwar was highlighting his off white knee length Shervani. He wore white gold designed Indian footwear (Joote) open at heels and pointed at the front with an upward turn. A belt bearing an ornately designed handled sword at his waist hung across his shoulder. This was at Papaji's insistence. He had always considered the couple, Arnav and Khushi as fighters to the core and a sword is the symbol of warrior! Arnav looked no less than a prince with his six feet height and muscular built body and his graceful body posture.

He had felt uncomfortable walking with jootas but with a little bit of practice he had a conquering walk. Even the makeover artists wondered at their own creation.

"Every girl will fall for him today!" they thought. Anjali could not take her eyes off her chote! There was a knock on the door and Shondeep for the third time entered the room. He had a strange look on his face and looking at Arnav, holding out his hand, he said bowing"I am Mr. Shondeep Banerjee...! And you are the Prince of which princely State Sir? ..." he looked very serious.

"Oh! Shut up, Shondeep!" said Arnav flushing. Anjali and Shondeep grinned at each other. Arnav looked away. Other family members started pouring in his room. Aakash held his hand on his heart looking at his handsome bhai. Nani again applied black kajal to ward off evil eye. Sham just stood there as if waiting for someone or something. Mama and Mami were on cloud nine. Mami was laden with tasteless gold ornaments from head to toe. She was wearing a blue designer saree with golden bordered. Nani looked graceful with her cream lucknow kalamkari designer saree and a single Kantha gracing her neck.

Aakash and Mamaji wearing designer Shervanis and pink pagadi. Sham had a light blue Kurta paijama with matching pagadi.

Shondeep wore a silk off white kurta and had turned his thick curly hair back highlighting his broad forehead. His blue eyes emitting happiness, his smile made people hold their breath. Lavanya was wearing a red saree with select ornaments. She was looking stunning. She could not take her eyes off Shondeep. He had a simple attire but was looking handsome with his Six and a quarter feet slender fair body. Lavanya got lost in his dimpled smile. He smiled at her. She came and wrapped her hand around his arm.

Anjali was wearing a yellow designer south Indian silk saree with green golden boarder. She wore an emerald and diamond studded ornate set. She had combination of yellow-green and gold bangles till elbow length. Her baajubandh IArm band) highlighted her slender long hands with the rings gracing her artistic long fingers.

"Uncle!!!!" Tej dashed in pushing everyone aside. Arnav and Tej kept gaping at each other. Tej was looking like a miniature prince replica of Arnav's exactly! Even he had hung a miniature sword across, causing people to hold their breath. Arnav picked him up. Tej kissed on Arnav's cheek.

"Dadaji told me to kiss you on Khushi buwa's behalf!" He said loudly sending a  wave of laughter in the gathering and Arnav put him down immediately looking away.

"Uncle!!" Meera was pulling his hand. She was wearing a red ghagaraa Choli with golden chunni, red bangles and matching jewellery! Arnav knelt down. She too kissed him on his other cheek! And before she could speak anything Arnav pressed his finger on her lips and said "I know!" Shondeep thumped on his shoulder.

Raj and Elsa came in. Both of them were in Bengali attire! both of them joining their hands said "We have come to take you to the Mantap in procession (Baarat!)

Elsa put a tilak on Arnav's forehead between his eyebrows and did Aarti. Raj held Arnav's hand and they all walked towards the motorcade.

The motorcade stopped at a distance from the gates of Sheesh mehel. A decorated, large, tall upto 15 hands height, spotless white mare was waiting. She wore a white foam leather saddle with silk embroidered cloth on it, A leather reins and stirrup! The owner of the horse was holding the reins.

Arnav suddenly resisted. "No! I am not mounting a horse!" he said firmly. Raj looked at him naughtily and said "As you wish!" "Your wish is my command!"

"Here!” He waved at the opposite side. An intricately draped huge Elephant was waiting patiently for someone to mount his decorated howdah with canopy. (Ambari) Arnav winced at the thought of mounting an elephant. He looked at Raj angrily. Raj grinned! Arnav preferred Horse to Elephant. Raj had a bright smile. Arnav muttered!

The other baaratees (All Arnav's relatives and friends with their families!) had gathered under a make shift pendal !

"Where did these many relatives come from?" He wondered. He could recognize a few like mami's sister, brother and their family, Nani's elder sister and her family. Some of his second cousins.. Mama's cousins...the list went on. All of a sudden all of them had become active excited about the baaraat!

Raj took Arnav to the Horse. Elsa again did aarti to the horse and washed the hooves with water. She fed the mare grains and mare put a step ahead indicating the acceptance. Arnav tried to mount the horse... but every time the mare shook her body. The owner asked Arnav to feed her. He did and then the mare nodded and stood still. Arnav inserted his left foot in the stirrup and mounted the mare gracefully. "Uncle!!" Tej was shouting raising his hands for someone to pick him up and put him behind Arnav. Raj did!

He took out some cash and gave away to be distributed among the poor! He gave a gift box to the owner of the horse too!

Tej held Arnav tightly from behind. The musicians (Band walas) started playing typical procession styled music and The baaraaties started dancing infront of the mare! It took one hour to cover the distance of just half a Kilometer to reach to the gates of Sheesh mahel!

Papaji, Mummiji and Khushi's family and friends were waiting at the gates to welcome the Baarat!!!

*********  ****

Mummiji woke Khushi up early morning. "Khushi! Get up! " she said. Khushi reluctantly opened her eyes. She looked around. "Khushi! Wake up!" Mummiji said smiling at her. "Hm!" Khushi got up stretching her body.

"Khushi! You have to fast till your wedding. Of course you can have milk or juice!" Said mummiji remembering Khushi's hunger.

"What?" Khushi screamed! She went to get ready sulkily.
Amma made her to sit on a low square stool and put scented oil on her hair. Massaging her head slowly she said "Khushi, you need to get ready soon. The baaraat will come anytime" Khushi turned hearing a commotion outside. She heard some familiar voices and waited to see! "Rano, Megha..." she screamed when her childhood friends entered the room. She went ahead and hugged. Giggling, her friends started rushing in the room.

"Khushi!" Amma called sternly. "Girls... go out and wait for her! Let her get ready!" they all went out laughing and teasing each other. "This is great! After so long I am meeting them!" Khushi grinned.
Amma took her to the bathroom. She massaged her face, hands and legs with Sandalwood paste and bathed her with the river water papaji had arranged ! Mummiji was supervising over all her makeup. Khushi came out! The team of make over artists were waiting for her.

It took a very long time to make her ready for her D-day! She was enjoying this making over. She smiled, giggled, laughed, blushed when the make up artists started putting Sola shringar for her and complemented her on every Shringar. They had covered all the mirrors in her room. She was not supposed to look at her image before the Shringar was complete.

When she got ready! One of them went out of the room and called Amma and Mummiji. It was the mother's privilege to see her first in bridal wear. Both of them couldn't stop their tears and mummiji took out cash to be distributed among the poor. Mummiji and Amma held her hands and turned her around to face the mirror! The cover was removed from the full length mirrors.

 Khushi had closed her eyes while turning around to face the mirror. She slowly apprehensively opened her eyes and kept looking at her own reflection. She gazed at the image unblinkingly. Her eyes went dreamy.

She was looking  heavenly!! Her fair complexion was glowing. Her hazy eyes emitted satisfaction. She gazed at herself from head to toe. Her Sola Shringar was complete. She fell in love with herself. She dreamed about Arnav and wished he be there with her, Looking at her!
She looked at her Solaa Shringaar (16 steps in bridal make up!) .
Her hair was neatly combed and was tied into a bun loosely hanging above her neck. The Hair style was decorated with gold studs and tiny floral beads.
White delicate jasmine malas (Lines) were pinned to her hair bun bringing them down from both the sides of her neck.
The hair was centrally parted and a Maang Tika (A ornate gold string with a circular pendent at one end was placed on her parting, bringing the pendent down on her forehead. The chains hanging from both the sides of the tika were loosely pinned behind her ears highlighting the hairline on her forehead.
A studded bindi was placed between her eyebrows matching the saree she was going to wear.
Her expressive hazel eyes were highlighted with Kaajal or Anjana (Eye liner) A small dot was placed behind her ears. Khushi wore a light lipstick.
A Nathni (a big gold ring through her left nostril with a chain pinned behind her left ear was delicately placed in her pierced nostril.
She was made to wear the earrings, large dangling zumkas and a chain ran around her ear for support.
Different types of Haar (/Necklesses) graced her neck of varying lengths right from the chokers to the navel length.
A Baaju Bandh was placed around her arms with serpent designs to signify its power to keep the evil at the bay and symbolizing lord Shiva.
The chudaa had already graced her wrists till elbows with red, ivory and gold combination.
Mehendi was intricately designed on her hands with Arnav's contribution to the design. Khushi looked at her palms and blushed recollecting Arnav drawing on her palm his name!
She wore rings in all her fingers except the thumbs. These rings were tied at the back of her hand with a gold floral ornament (Haath Fulora) which was joined to her first bangle on the wrist.
Gold anklets were placed around her ankles.
The toe rings were placed around her toe middle and third finger.
A Kamar Bandh (waist band) was placed tightly around her waist.
She wore a golden yellow ghagara choli with golden chunnari. Her transparent chunari covered her head and her hairstyle and tucked in her kamar Bandh.

The door of the room was thrown open and Khushi was brought out to take blessings from the elders. She first went to the panditji and took their blessings by sitting down on her knees and touching her head to the floor! Panditji blessed her sprinkling holy water on her head.

She looked at Mummiji. Mummiji took her to babuji and Amma, then Buwaji. Khushi's eyes were searching for papaji, but he was nowhere to be seen. She looked at mummiji. "Where is he?" she asked. Mummiji looked away avoiding to answer. Khushi asked again "Where is papaji?" She held mummiji's hand.

"He doesn't want to see you... in bridal dress!" said mummiji trying to stop her tears.
"What? But I am not in bridal wear yet! " She said moving from room to room in search of him. Finally she found him sitting in the balcony of his room.

"Papaji ! She called out!" He turned around and froze!
"Oh! My angel!" he called her with open arms. She ran and merged in his hug!

"Papaji!" she said in quivering voice, tears welling up her eyes.!"
"No! Khushi! No!" he almost screamed. Khushi stopped dead. "Don't! Your make up will wash off!" he said grinning at her. She grinned back and hugged him tightly.

"Papaji, come!" she said pulling his hand and dragging him out of the room. She came where mummiji was waiting. She sat on her knees and touching her head on the floor said "Bless me!"

Mummiji lifted her and kissed her forehead. "No Khushi! You bow like this only before God or HIS men!" she said. Papaji hugged her tightly muttering "Rub raakhaa !!" May God protect you!!Bless you!

Khushi was surrounded by her friends.  Someone pulled her away... “Khushi..!” Regi was looking at her unblinkingly...! She blushed and Rekha couldn’t stop pecking her on cheeks.  Aman whistled, winking at her. 

“What is this?” she said blushing.   “But.... I don’t know.... But!” she shook his head.

“What?” Khushi asked curiously.  Aman looked away not knowing what to say..

“What? Aman Sir?” she asked holding his hand.  “I mean... I don’t know...! But ASR was looking very handsome...! Compared to that... she .. i mean... Khushi....!” he said looking at Rekha.  Rekha wore seriousness. 

“Yeah...! I think ..” She looked at Regi.  “I think Regi designed his outfit himself... and yours Khushi... I think some apprentice...!” Khushi turned to Regi fuming in rage and Regi staggered back.  Rekha and Aman waiting smirking, for the explosion...!

“Regi sir!” Khushi yelled and Regi winced.  He held her tightly ..

“Khushi... you believe them? Do you think I would do that?” he tried his best. 

“Yeah, you would!” Khushi shouted breaking free and the duo roared in laughter. 

“I know you are his man, through and through....!” She said breaking free from him.  He pulled her in his embrace and said... “Khushi... I designed for both of you...! “

“By the way, Khushi, when did he say he loves you? In Kolkata?” Rekha asked grinning at others.   Khushi looked confused. 

“When? You don’t remember?” Rekha added fuel... Khushi tried to remember but she couldn’t.  “When did he say?” he didn’t!  Khushi fidgeted restlessly trying hard.

“What? He didn’t say? And you are marrying him?” Aman was wicked  among the three.  Khushi fumed. 

“You should have made him confess his love, Khushi!” Aman said shaking his head hopelessly.

“Now its too late!” Rekha said seriously.

“It is never too late! Our Khushi will compel him to confess...!” Regi patted on Khushi’s back sympathetically.  Khushi clenched her teeth. 

“Yes.. Khushi! We are with you!” Rekha said winking at others.  They left her alone to ponder.. Her friends surrounded her. 

She was giggling and blushing. "Khushi, we heard he is very handsome! How did you manage to hook him?" one of them asked teasing her. "Oh! It must be easy for her! Look at her! Anyone would fall for her!" complemented one of the friends.
There was commotion downstairs. Khushi could hear the band playing loud music. Mummiji came forward!

"Khushi! The baarat is at the door! Go this way to the balcony which opens on the front side. Look at your husband. If he looks up at you, come back!" She said pushing Khushi! Her friends accompanied her. Mummiji kept her fingers crossed.
"What?" Asked papaji!
"It's a good omen if he looks up at her!" She prayed.
"Oh! Is it? I will make sure he looks up!" he said smiling at her.
"No! " She ordered him. They both along with Guptas went down to welcome the baaraat!
Khushi waited at the window with bated breath!!!

Part 108

There was a bang on Arnav's door. Anjali was at the door. He got worried. "What is it Di? Are you ok?" he remembered last night.

"I am perfectly ok, chote! But it seems you are not ok!" she said smiling at him.
"What?" he asked.
"I think, you forgot that its your haldi and sehara bandh today!" she pushed him inside and entering his bedroom,screamed!
"What? What happened?" Aranv came running behind her. She looked around the littered things on the floor.

"Chote? Is this your bedroom?" she asked with wide eyes.
"What? I am tiding it up now!" He blurted and hurriedly started picking up the things.
She caught his hand and said. "Never mind, Chote! The room service will do it! Go and get ready! There is very little time left. We have to go to Sheesh Mahel!" She pushed him towards the bathroom and went out of his suite.

*** **** ****
It was decided that for security reasons the haldi programs from both the sides will take place in Sheesh Mahel. Arnav got ready and came down. Aakash and Payal had already left. He saw Shondeep's parents leaving for Sheesh Mahel. Raj and Elsa were busy making the arrangements. Mummiji and Papaji were in Khushi's suite. He looked for Mamaji and Mamiji. Mamiji was getting ready and Mamaji was lingering outside his room for her to come out.

He saw Anjali coming out of her room, nervously searching for something. Sham was enraged and was muttering furiously. He was angry with his wife.
"But I haven't seen it!" she was pleading. "Then who kept it? You must have misplaced it!" said Sham almost scolding her. She had tears in her eyes.

"What is it Di? What happened?" Arnav asked coming to her rescue.
"Chote! He is misplaced his mobile! And now asking me to find it out. He had it when he went out last night!" she said sulkily.

"Then he must have left it where he had been!" said Arnav looking at his JIJAJI.
"Oh No! That's not possible. I never leave my things behind, Saale Saab!" he said angrily.
"There is always a first time, JIJAJI!" said Arnav smirking.

"No Way! I Remember I had kept it in my pocket when we left" he whispered under the breath. Arnav curled up his lips, shrugged and came back to the lounge area.

He saw mummiji and Khushi coming out of the elevator followed by papaji. Papaji came forward and thumping forcefully on Arnav's back said "Hello Arnav Puttar! How was your party?" Arnav felt embarrassed.

"Party? Which party?" Khushi asked suspiciously looking at Arnav.
"Oh! Nothing!" He could say. Papaji laughed like a villain and coming back to Khushi, opened his mouth to tell her ... "um Papaji, I think we should have our breakfast!" said Arnav hurriedly. Papaji looked at him and said "Ok! But you owe me a favor, right?" he held out his hand.

"Yes, I promise!" said Arnav reluctantly, unable to perceive what papaji could ask from him and when.

Khushi was still suspicious. "Papaji!" she called out flashing an angry look at Arnav. Arnav turned his face. Papaji was out of sight by that time. Sham still searching frantically for his cell phone, Khushi stood there like a statue thrusting her hands on her hips. Mummiji nudged her and they both moved.

**** **** *****
The haldi program was arranged in two part of the Sheesh Mahel. Anjali was all set with the haldi for her chote. Arnav had refused to go trough all this. But she insisted that he be there at least for some of the mandatory rituals. She wanted him to wear the silk kurta which he out rightly refused. Finally they both settled down on a cream shirt. "But no jacket or coat!" she insisted. He agreed. The ground haldi and Sandlewood bowl came from the bride's side and Anjali sent one to them.
The ladies put oil and haldi on Arnav's face with the help of Mango leaves touching his forehead, cheeks, shoulders and arms.. He refused to allow them to apply on his hands and legs. He sat there sulkily, with an awkward expression on his face.

*** *** **
Khushi was enjoying her Haldi Program readily accepting the application of haldi and sandalwood on her face and hands and also applying haldi to the ladies in return, laughing her heart out. She was wearing a yellow plain saree with yellow matching bangles and gold ornaments. She had haldi all over her face. Her Kajal outlined eyes emitting happiness; she wore a broad smile on her face.
Papaji had made arrangements to bring the water from seven holy rivers of India. He had made sure that the bath after the haldi be taken with this collected water. He had sent it to the grooms side too.

Anjali wanted to bathe her little brother but again Arnav refused and went into the bathroom securely closing the door. Khushi's Amma and Payal helped Khushi bathe and remove the haldi properly. Her face brightened up with turmeric and sandalwood massage. She was glowing.
"Avinash!!! Bhabhi!!!" She screamed seeing Avinash and his wife at the door. She came running kicking and knocking down some of the things that were kept on the floor! "Careful, Khushi!" Avinash shouted. His wife came forward and hugged Khushi!

"Great!! This is great!" Khushi screamed holding their hands and swinging happily. They both smiled at Payal. "She is the same!" said Avinash.

"You look beautiful, Khushi!" Anita, Avinash's wife complemented Khushi! She blushed. She dragged them in and called out for papaji and mummiji. They both welcomed the couple. Avinash's wife looked around.

"Where is Anjali?" she asked.
"Oh! Anjali ji? She is in other party!" said Khushi throwing her hand in the direction casually.
"Other party?" asked Anita, confused! "Oh! That's means that Laad Governer's .. I mean... Arnav ji's party!" blurted Khushi. Anita laughed and Payal took her to the other side.

Anjali came forward smiling broadly, when she saw payal and Anita, Avinash's wife. "Hi!" she greeted.
"Hello, Anjali, How are you?" asked Anita holding her hand.
"I am fine! And thank you for everything!" Anjali said with gratitude. Anita smiled. Arnav saw her and asked.."Avinash?"
She grinned and said "Other party!!"
"What?" he was confused. "I mean Khushi's party!" she said. "He won't come here soon, unless he listens to all her stories!" she said laughing. Anjali joined her.

"Di... Where is Shondeep?" Asked Arnav looking around for him.
"Oh! He did not come! He stayed back at the hotel with Lavanya!" She said turning her face and left.
"Thank you!" Arnav whispered looking at Anita. She just smiled and went to meet the other members of the family.

Avinash had enough of Khushi's relentless blabber. "Stop it Khushi! How much will you talk? Keep something for later!" he said grinning and said "Khushi, I will meet Arnav and come!" he turned to leave. She pulled him back. "No! You are not going. All our party members are turning his side" she said sulkily. He laughed and left.

Papaji and Aakash had vanished again. Everybody was searching for them. Sham was still furious for losing his important mobile.

Shondeep was in his room when Lavanya knocked on the door. He opened and was surprised to see her there.
"Hello Ms Lavanya!" he greeted her.
"Hi Shondeep, I mean.. Everyone is going to Sheesh Mahel for Haldi. Your mom told me that you are not going!" she said looking at him.
"Yes!" he said still standing in the door.
"What is your plan for the day?" she asked him.
"Nothing!" he said unable to understand her question
"I mean, if you are free, maybe we can go out to take a round in the city!" she said. "You know, I have heard a lot about Lucknow! But haven't got a chance to move around in the city." She said looking at him.

He thought for a while. He said "Yeah ok. May be we can go out. I will be in the lounge in half an hour!" he said. She felt happy and excited. "Ok!" she said and went away!
He came down within half an hour to find her in the lounge waiting for him. He took the next chair and asked her "So, why did you not go?"

"Um.. I mean.. Haldi is not that important! Why did you decide not to go?" she said looking away.
"Oh! I am waiting for a business call, that's why!" he said plainly.
"What? And how are we going to go out then?" she asked.
"Oh! That.. May be after the call?" he asked her apologetically.
"Oh..Ok" she said little disappointed. He looked at his watch. His cell rang.

"Yes!..Oh! Ok... yes I am coming!" he said getting up forgetting that he was with her.
"Shondeep!" she called out. "Oh! I am so sorry, Ms Lavanya," he said turning back! " um.. Actually I need to go to Sheesh Mahel... My boss called me! So would you like to come with me?" He asked her.
"What? Oh! Ok. What will I do sitting here alone? I will come" She said. Somehow she felt he was avoiding her.

*** **** ****
Shondeep opened the door for Lavanya. She got down and ascended the stairs to reach the main door of sheesh mahel. He looked at her till she disappeared. He did not enter the mahel but waited at the porche. He saw papaji and Aakash descending the stairs hurriedly. He sat in the car. Papaji and Aakash joined him. The driver raced away.

Lavanya entered sulkily. She saw Avinash and his wife and felt better. She had someone to talk to. Anjali was surprised to see Lavanya. "Hello Lavanya ji, I thought you stayed back with Shondeep!" she said looking around for him.

"Yeah, but he had some business meeting to attend." Said Lavanya. "Oh! Ok!" said Anjali and left.
Arnav had his bath and had changed into his normal attire, brown jacked, white shirt and black pair of trousers. He felt comfortable. He smiled at Lavanya. She felt better. "ASR, what do you think about Shondeep?"She asked him.

"Oh! He is a gem of a person!" replied ASR. Anjali was passing by. She stopped!
"Who Chote?" she asked. "About Shondeep, I was asking him!" said Lavanya little blushing.
Anjali went away. Lavanya had nothing to do. She went to Khushi.
"Hello Lavanya ji? Where is Shondeep Sir?' she asked naughtily. "Oh! He had some business meeting!" said Lavanya moving over to Avinash's wife.

*** ****
Papaji, Aakash and Shondeep returned after two hours exactly at the time of Sehra Bandh. Anjali was preparing for Chuda for Khushi and Papaji was preparing for Pagdi /sehra for Arnav.

The sehra was blessed by the elders in the house and Arnav was offered the sehra. The pink and white sehra was tide on his head and a ruby and emerald studded shir pech graced the sehra. Arnav looked like a prince with the sehra on his head and a tilak on his forehead. Papaji could not control his tears. He again took out money to distribute among the poor encircling it around Arnav's face. He handed over an envelope to Arnav and said "This is a small gift from this poor papaji" Arnav touched his feet willingly. He was learning to bow before the almighty.

Anjali prepared the chuda to be sent to Khushi. The mix of red bangles and ornate ivory bangles were decoratively placed in a silver plate with rose petals and boxes of gold bangles were to be sent to Khushi. She was ready to go.

"Wait Raani Saheba! I wish to join you in this auspicious occasion" Said Sham taking the plate from her hand. Arnav clenched his fists.

Anjali smiled at her husband and said "Ok baba! Let us go!" she turned to go. Sham smirked.
The maid came forward and took the plate from his hand saying "I will carry it for you sir!" She took the plate and pushed a black thread in the bangles. Anjali raised her eyebrows.

"To ward off evil, Madam!" said the maid. Sham and Anjali came to Khushi's side. Papaji was waiting for them. He saw Sham and came forward.

Joining his hands he said "Damadji, Its my honour to welcome you!" Sham smiled broadly. They came in. Anjali took the thal from the maid and offered it to Khushi. Then she slowly started putting those bangles around her wrist in an artistic combination inserting the gold ornate bangles in between the red and ivory bangles. Khushi's hands were full up to elbow. It looked so graceful that Anjali could not resist herself and kissed Khushi's hands when she placed the ornate bajubandh around Khushi's upper arms.

Sham was looking at Khushi unblinkingly. Khushi felt uneasy and angry. His stare disgusted her. She could not do anything. "Khushi ji, the set looks so beautiful on you that anyone would kiss you !" he said it giving her the feeling that he actually wanted to kiss her. She could not bear it anymore, she got up with a jerk angrily. But Sham was sent off balance suddenly with a forceful thump on his back. "Mr. Sham you are invited to the hall!"

Papaji forcefully moved him to the hall and said. "Mr. Sham, I thought you would rush to the hotel!" Sham looked at Papaji questioningly. "I thought, you knew about the news ... The breaking news today!" Sham looked confused and nervous.

"News about 101 ways of how to cheat your wife!" Said papaji loudly. Anjali, who was entering the hall stopped dead.
"What?" She asked loudly.
"Nothing, Anjali Puttar! It's a news stunt" Said papaji laughing. Sham was nervous. His knees gave way. She sat on the sofa with a thud! Papaji smirked. But papaji had made him sit there with tea and snacks forcibly putting his hand across Sham's shoulder. Sham could not move. Aakash and Shondeep were sitting opposite Sham and staring at him smirking. Aakash went out.

"Take this and replace this in his room. It should look damaged!" Aakash gave the phone to the maid and whispered.

In the early evening, after a lavish lunch, Anjali took a chunari, to Khushi. She had placed it in a silver plate on the rose petals and golden threads. The Red chunari was finely embroidered with gold thread and studded with semi precious stones making it heavy and ornate. The edges were red silked tasseled with pearl threaded in it. The thal was covered with yellow silk cloth and was taken to Khushi.

Arnav was in his room. Anjali went to him with the thal and said "Chote, don't you want to see the chunari ?"

"What? Arnav asked loudly.
"Shh! Chote! Quiet! ... I am doing you a favour. This chunni is to be sent to the bride which she will wear during the marriage." She whispered. And removed the silk cloth.
Arnav looked at it mesmerized. Staring at it once again, he kept his hand on it and looked at his Di, dreamily. She nodded with tears and covered it again.

“Regi is flourishing as a designer....!” He blurted and Anjali turned.  Arnav smiled....!

Khushi removed the yellow silk cover and her mouth fell open, her eyes widened with amazement and she looked mesmerized. "Hannn! She inhaled but forgot to breathe out! She held her breath for a long time, not taking her eyes off the chunary!" Then slowly she touched it gently and running her fingers on it feeling its texture and closing her eyes to take it in..

"Beautiful!" she whispered. She looked at Anjali. Anjali looked satisfied that Khushi liked it.
"Khushi, Mami will send the bridal dress (Shaadi ka joda) in the evening. You wear this tomorrow to cover your head and face" Khushi nodded. "And.." Anjali went ahead... "Chote has seen it, touched it and liked it very much" said Anjali in a bear whisper. Khushi blushed.

*** *** ***
Sham was desperate to come back, alone. But Papaji did not leave him so easily. He was with him all the time talking to him politely and respectfully. He always made him sit with him calling him "Damadji!" Aakash kept glaring at him and smirking. Shondeep on the other hand was busy talking to Lavanya, making good for not taking her to the market. Khushi and Arnav were made to sit in their rooms and were not allowed to enter the hall. Anjali had come back to Arnav and had all the praises for Khushi. She described to him how she was looking gorgeous; how she wore the bottle green saree with kundan work on it' then how she changed into a yellow saree again for chuda Daan. How she liked the chunni. Arnav was restless with desperation mounting to see his Khushi... Anjali went on describing her chuda and how beautiful she looked. She described Khushi so well that Arnav could not control himself from asking "Di where is she now? Which room?"

"Oh! No no Chote! You are not allowed to see each other after haldi!" Anjali stepped into papaji's shoes not allowing them to see each other.  Arnav looked away frustrated... And his eyes flashed.... “Wait a minute!” he dashed forward...

“Aray Chote...!” Anjali called out from behind.  Arnav walked out ... Anjali followed....!

“Hey... ASR!” Regi had hugged him tightly.  Arnav patted on his back.  “Hi ASR...!” Rekha was not behind.   “Oh yes... Aman!” Arnav hugged him too.  Regi held him at arms length....

“Humm... Not Bad!” he chuckled looking at Arnav’s outfit...!

“Where is Khushi?” Rekha asked and Arnav fumed...!

“Other side!” he sulked and next moment found himself deserted.  All had vanished to Khushi’s side.  Arnav couldn't do anything.
"Bhai... " Aakash whispered in his ear. Arnav was thrown out of the trance. "hm?"
"bhai.. 101 ways is aired!!!" said Aakash in a bear whisper. Arnav looked around and rising from his seat held Aakash's hand. "Aakash.. We should keep Di away from the TV!" he said worriedly.
"Yes Bhai.. We will have to do something.. but You should see that!" Aakash said smiling.

*** **** ****
The groom's side came back to the hotel in the evening. The Bride's family stayed at Sheesh Mahel. Papaji told shondeep to take care of the groom's family.

"Shondeep, we are not coming tonight. You manage on my behalf. Take care of the Groom's family and guests on my behalf" said papaji. And placing a hand on Sham's shoulder he told Shondeep "Take care of Damadji. He is a very important person! See to it that nothing goes wrong in his arrangements!"

Shondeep smiled and took Sham's hand in his, saying "Sir, Don't worry! I will be honoured to take care of the family and especially the Damad ji of Raizada family. I will not leave any stone unturned in keeping them happy!" Papaji thumped on Shondeep's shoulder.

Raj was standing behind papaji. He came forward and shook hand with Arnav and then gave him a hug. "BIL, see you tomorrow! The D-day!" he winked at Arnav. Arnav looked away.

"Sham ji! I mean.. Damad ji! You will be the guest of Honour tomorrow! Damad from Groom's family is placed at the highest by Bride's side. So keep your demands ready!" He winked at Sham too! Anjali laughed her heart out!

****** *  *********
"These people are so nice naa?" asked Anjali entering her suite. Sham was surfing the news channels hurriedly. He switched off the TV immediately seeing Anjali entering and without answering went into the bathroom.

She heard a scream "What is this?" Sham came out holding a completely soaked Mobile.
"What is this Raani Saheba? I found this in a bath tub!" he was furious trying frantically to pat is dry with the napkin and picking up Anjali's hair dryer.

"I don't know!" She said looking confused. Sham paid no attention to her.
There was a knock on the door. Aakash was at the door.
"Di.. Nani has a headache. Will you please come and see?" he asked her.
"What? What happened to her? Let us go Aakash!" she said coming out of her suite.
Sham took a sigh of relief holding the remote.

Aakash went to Arnav's room. They both surfed the news channels and found what they wanted.
"The 101 ways to cheat your wife...and successfully getting away!!" The talk of the town of Lucknow, where the high profile wedding of the top businessman from Delhi with the foster daughter of the textile tycoon is being held, the Son in law, of the family slipped out in a party about cheating his wife.

"He was heard sitting in a pub with his other relatives and was caught blurting out the ways he tried on his wife... ! Does his wife know about this? What is her reaction?? We couldn't get anyone from the families for their reaction...!!!

It was a small news item with Sham's photo having his back at the camera.
"What?" Arnav blurted.."Why didn't they show the footage?"
"Bhai, Papaji stopped us from sending the clipping now! Once the wedding is over there will be a blast!" Aakash grinned.

Arnav kept gazing at the TV screen. Suddenly he sat upright. And waited for the marquee to repeat. There was a one line news not of much importance to any one other than Arnav. He waited for it with bated breath.

"A fifteen year old case of tutelage and paternity was reopened in Alahabad highcourt involving a politician and a minister in the UP government!! Arnav gaped at the marquee and smile appeared on his face. "Time to pay back!!" he muttered.

"Bhai..What?" Asked Aakash still thinking about the 101 ways..! "Bhai.. we should have seen the entire news!" he regretted about not being there when the news was first aired.

**** **** ****

Sham was enraged. He knew someone from the other four has leaked out the news. He was thankful that his photo was not shown. He paced the room trying to pat dry the mobile. He had all the numbers stored in the phone. He hurriedly went to the wardrobe, took out his bag and pulled up a diary. He found out the number and from the hotel landline dialled the number.

The phone was picked up from the other side. "Did you see the news?" asked Sham furiously. "We both are sailing in the same boat. If we do not do anything now! We will never be able to do it!" Sham said raising his voice.

"What do you want me to do?" asked the other person. Sham talked to him for a long time and when he hung up he looked relieved and satisfied.

"You will not do anything, saale saab! I will pull him out of the mess and he will do anything for me then!" He hurriedly went out of the room and moved towards reception area. He was stopped by Shondeep. "Hello Mr. Sham! Is everything ok? Do you want something?" he asked politely.
No! Nothing... I am just going out!" Sham said curtly.

"Ok! The security persons will accompany you and our driver will take you wherever you want to go!" said Shondeep smiling at him.

Sham went out muttering. He asked to stop the car at the ATM. He needed cash for his plans....

Part 107

There was a knock on the door. Mummiji was at the door on her wheel chair. She got up with the help of her walker and came in.

"I am staying with her tonight! And you all can go out!" she ordered. Everyone went out to their respective rooms.

** * ****

Khushi was ready to go to bed. She curled up beside mummiji. Mummiji stroked her head lost in her thoughts.

"Khushi....! " Khushi looked up at mummiji. Mumimiji was sitting resting her back on the head rise of the bed.

"This one year has given me so much! I can’t even imagine life without you, Khushi! “she said looking at Khushi. Khushi had tears in her eyes. She buried her face in mummiji's laps.

"Khushi, you are entering a new life! A life with someone who will be with you throughout!

Khushi looked up.  “Rest of my life with Arnavji?” she thought dreamily. 

“ Our marriages are not contractual marriages, Khushi! The bonding is forever! It’s made in heaven! It cannot break. It will exist not only through this life but lives together!”

“Yeah..! Life with Arnav ji ... !” Khushi smiled inwardly..

“Marriage is a relationship of respect, intimacy and acceptance, Khushi! Its beyond having dreams together! It's a reality of being together, physically and emotionally!  Intimacy is not only a few kisses and hugs! It is much more beyond that. That intimacy defines your life after marriage; ensures togetherness, Khushi! “ Said Mummiji stroking her head.

“Humm... Hugs and Kisses are so magical.... I lost myself in his embrace and his Kiss? I just can’t stop craving for his kiss!” She blushed feeling his deep kisses...!

“You are on the threshold of womanhood! Leave behind your childhood, now! You need to grow up to his level ! " She caressed Khushi's face. Khushi was looking at her intently. She had a shade of fear in her eyes.

“To his level?” His high rise cabin flashed where she had her moments with him, she had never shared with anyone...! “His level? Will I be able to ....?” she didn’t know.

"Your real mother would have told you everything" Said mummiji.
"But you are my mother!" said Khushi with trembling voice.
"hmm! That's why I am here! We will not get a chance again. There is nothing to be afraid of, Khushi! Leading a life with life partner and dreaming life with him are two different things. The acceptance comes in between. You accept him as he is and then share your dreams! You will find all your dreams come true and that he fulfils all your expectations. Allow him to understand your feelings. Give him chance to understand you!" Mummiji said seriously.

“But he understands me well... more than I understand myself...He reads my mind..My unspoken words....” Khushi flushed with the flashing memory of his “Sunaa Maine...!” She hid her face... “I don’t have to say anything.... He understands...!” she closed her eyes in realization...!

"This is a very different marriage, Khushi, with contrasting personalities. You two are so different, yet so alike! You two  share one soul! Your actions are different but your intentions are same. Your speeches are different but your thoughts are same!" Mummiji wondered this out of the world Love for each other....!

Don't allow a slightest bit of misunderstanding! It is your duty to ward off all the evil. It is like nurturing! As he nurtures his plants, you nurture him to keep your marriage ever green!" Said mummiji dreamily.

 "Like you and Papaji!" asked Khushi nudging her!

"Hmm" She said. " You have to ensure the growth of both of you, individually as well as together! Your support will speak volumes for him! Both of you are incomplete without each other! Make him complete, Khushi with your unequivocal, unconditional love and passion. Stand by him all the time! He is yours forever and you are his forever! Let your souls unite, Khushi! Merge yourself in his life!" Mummiji could not speak more. She stopped hearing Khushi's sobs!!

"Khushi , don't cry! This is a happy moment! Dream about your life together, about your children, their growth, about their children!" Khushi smiled faintly! Mummiji pinched her cheek lightly.

“Children? Arnav ji’s children.. .. around us...!” she pressed her hand on her heart smiling dreamily. 

 Mummiji  went ahead!

"Before reacting to his actions ask yourself "Why? Why did he do this?" and when you find the answer, react appropriately. Don't jump to conclusions before asking why! Do you understand, Khushi?" Mummiji asked her. She nodded.

“hum I did that mistake ... When Regi Sir left.... I.. I thought Arnav ji fired him.... But ... But my Laad Governor.... He... was Aru to her... her dearest... the one who was dependable... the one who fulfilled her last wish....!” Khushi winced with the thought....

" If you want your marriage to be successful, offer yourself first unconditionally and he will be all yours, unconditionally!" Mummiji helped Khushi get up and took her in an embrace. Khushi lost herself in her affection!! She felt secure in mummiji's arms. She slept like a child in her arms for the last time!!!Mummiji closed her eyes with tears rolling on her cheeks!!

*** ***** ****** 8**** ****** *****

Arnav came back to his room. He threw himself on the bed gazing at the ceiling. These few nights were killing him. He couldn't sleep. The tension and excitement was mounting. He couldn't help thinking about Khushi.

There was a knock on the door. It was 10.00 in the night. He got up surprised. "Who is it?" he asked
moving to open the door. Raj was at the door.

"What?" Arnav asked worried. "Nothing!" said Raj gently pushing Arnav inside the room.
"What?" Arnav asked surprised.
"Shh! We are going out!" Raj whispered.
"What? No! Where?" Arnav was bewildered.
"Bachelor' Party!" Said Raj in a bear whisper.
"What? Now? No!" gasped Arnav.
"Shh! Dad will hear!" said Raj under his breath.
"What? Papaji doesn't know? No No.. I am not coming!" said Arnav.
"Come on! We are hosting this for you! After Haldi, no one will allow you to come out of your room! This is our last chance and last night to freak out! " said Raj excitedly.

"But... No.. I ... mean.. Its too late!" Arnav started melting.
"Oh! We will come back in time, before dawn! Now go and get ready" Said Raj pushing Arnav inside.

They both came out and saw Shondeep was waiting in the dark near lounge for them.
The three of them started moving towards reception area. A strong hand thumped on Raj's Shoulder.

"If YOU are a bachelor then I too!" said a forceful voice. Raj winced and turned back.
"Oh No!" he said. "No Dad! You are not coming!" he said hissing at his dad.
"Why not? I mean I can be of some help to you... when you all get high I can drive you back!" said papaji looking hopefully at the boys.

"Look who’s talking..!! No way Dad! You? You will get us back? Look at him!" said Raj throwing his hands in the air in frustration.
"Why? I mean I don't get drunk and lose control so easily! You know my capacity!" his Dad said proudly.
Raj tried different tactic. "Dad! If you are there, Arnav will be awkward! We want him to be a free bird for the last time, Dad Please!" He looked at Arnav for support! Arnav looked away not knowing whom to support.

"Sir, I think Raj is right!" Shondeep came to his rescue.
"What? You too, Shondeep? Then fall Balwindar!!" papaji went melodramatic pressing his hand on his chest and stepping backwards like a stabbed Julius Caesar.
Raj looked at his father's drama in frustration and then said "DAD, Please... Let us go DAD!"

Papaji turned sulkily muttering under his breath. He sounded like Khushi! "Has he picked up this from Khushi?" thought Arnav smiling. "Khushi is the one who mutters to herself all the time, thinking aloud!" Thought Arnav. His eyes reflected longing for Khushi!

"Wait! Aakash is to come yet!" said Raj looking at his watch. They saw shadows moving.

And to their shock Aakash came with Sham! Arnav clenched his fists enraged. "Aakash? With JIJAJI?" he was taken aback. "What is going on?" he thought to himself. Suddenly he lost all the interest in the party. Shondee came forward and said Hello "Mr. Sham, its good you too are joining us!" Sham looked at Arnav maliciously. They all went out hurriedly. Four of their security guards followed them. Arnav dragged himself behind them.

Shondeep slowed down and Arnav caught up with him.
"What the hell is he doing in our party?" hissed Arnav in Shondeep's ears.
"Don't know!" Shondeep shrugged. Sham had held on to Aakash all the time. Arnav could not ask anything to Aakash.
They all reached the pub. Arnav's frustrations had reduced a bit and he had started taking part in conversation.

Arnav could not forget Sham's presence. The five of them slowly started letting down their guards and opening up, every now and then telling Arnav what to do and how to play tricks with the wife and how to keep her in control!! They all sounded like clergymen giving sermon!!.

"I tell you, BIL! These wives are witches! they catch you red handed when you go wrong and just ignore you when you really get romantic" said Raj loudly making the nearby people wince.
Arnav looked at him in surprise. "I think Elsa will know about this statement too!" he said contemptuously curling up his lips.

"Oh! No no...! can't even imagine what will happen then? I think I will be banned from entering India while she settles permanently here!" said Raj laughing loudly. Shondeep and Sham joined him.
"That means you do not know who to trick your wife. I can do anything and my wife will never come to know.... You see!" Sham had boozed and had started blurting....! Arnav and Aakash exchanged looks!

"What does that mean? Mr. Sham? You seem to be perfect in this...!" Raj was curious.
"I am the best at it..!" sham said boastfully inflating his chest.

"Oh yeah? Give us some tips then! Hello.. Hello look here everyone... We are going to get lessons on One Zero One ways to cheat on your wife... By Mr. Sham!" declared Raj loudly... clapping hard.
Shondeep looked around and putting his hand on Raj's shoulder said... "Raj! Keep cool! We are in public place!" He looked at Arnav. Arnav and Aakash were looking at Sham who was blurting.. number one... How to stay away under the pretext of work! No. 2 How to keep her away from any doubts.. and... " he went on.

*** *** ***
They came out putting their hands around each others' necks. The security guards were shadowing them. One of them took the steering and they all drove towards the Hotel back.

With Raj considerably in control of himself, looking at his condition in the pub. Sham was almost out of control still blurting about 101 ways to ... Shondeep was still listening to Sham intently and nodding in response to his nonsense babble.

Aakash and Arnav were holding each others' hands and trying to steady themselves.
When they all went to their respective rooms at 3 in the night.... Each one had a smirk on his face.....

Raj came to his room but instead of entering his room, he went to his dad's room. He knew his dad would be awake and so was he. "Dad!" he whispered instead of knocking on the door and it was opened immediately.

"Dad, we could do it!" he said looking at his dad. "I am sorry Dad, I had to stop you from coming with us!" said Raj guiltily.

"Its ok, Son! I knew it! Tell me what you could get..!" asked papaji.
"Here!" Raj handed over his phone. Papaji looked satisfied. "Redundancy?" he asked. "Everyone!" said Raj. Papaji smiled broadly and then turning in his room said "Good night son! Got some work to do!" and he closed the door.

Raj looked at the closed door and went to his room, to reset his sleep.

Shondeep went to his room. He took out his phone and lost deep in thoughts. He felt sorry for Anjali. He felt sorry for her fate. "She deserves better life than this! She needs a better life!" he thought. He replayed all the recording of the video clippings. He felt like going to Sham's room and bashing him square on the face. He controlled his rage and sighing helplessly, went to bed.

Arnav came back to his suite. He took out his cell and reran the clippings. His anger mounting with every word Sham blurted about his wife, About Arnav's Di! This is the last straw. Your countdown has reached zero, Mr. sham Manohar Zaa!" He screamed. He downloaded the entire clipping in his laptop and then went to bed.

Aakash went to his room. Payal had stayed back at guptas. He took out his phone and saw the recording. He stared. All the remaining four had recorded Sham from different angles. Every time he heard his Di's name, his blood boiled with rage. He clenched his fists, stood there like a statue for long time. Slowly a smiled appeared on his face. He put his hand in his pocket and took out another phone.

Sham came to his room. Anjali could sense his presence. "Where were you? And what is the time?" she blurted in sleep and turning her back to him she continued with her sleep.
"Its nothing, Raani Saheba! " he smirked. Tomorrow this bachelor party will be all over the media....!" He thought and turning his back on her he went to a peaceful sleep, dreaming about the breaking news headlines of the news channels.

***** ********* ******