Branded: Chapter 3

A FF collaboration between myself (Mishty Shah) and Mrinalini!

I will be updating on blog, while a thread has been opened on IF as well. 

Please shower us with your love!

Writer's Comments

Thank you for the lovely response and such appreciative comments! Please keep them coming, we read all the comments.

Yes, Arnav does not remember Khushi's face and neither does Khushi know Arnav's face. They will be both working together, without realizing that what happened that night. There will be more clarification in Chapter 4 as to how fate played it role.

We hope you like this story.

~ Love Mishty & Mrinalini ~

Chapter 3

It was a Sunday, so he was fairly relaxed. He decided to check his schedule, but it was all over the place. This was why he needed a secretary to take care of all of this.

Why did I fire the last one? He asked himself this question, probably because she spent too much time looking at him. He made a quick call to Aman.

“Aman! What time is the interview for the secretary’s post?” he commanded.

“Tomorrow morning at 9 ASR!” came the reply.

“Okay! I don’t wanna take all interviews so shortlist the best and only those few can come in for the final round with me!” he ordered.

“Okay ASR! Will be done! Anything else?” asked Aman.

“Yeah! Make sure the secretary is not like the previous ones! I want one with brains who can manage with my work load!” he said.

“Yes ASR!” he said and Arnav cut the call.

His Sunday was spent lazing around. He stayed at home relaxing knowing that the coming week was going to be extremely busy and would tire him too much.

~~~

Khushi was busy preparing for her interview at AR. She read through a few book, prepped up questioning her reflection in the mirror with confidence and answering with the same amount of confidence. She felt better thinking about the interview though she hadn’t forgotten about the night yet, she tried her best to drift her mind off it.

Every time her mind went blank, the memories of that night would flash in front of her eyes. She clenched her fists every time it happened to regain her confidence and then continued prepping up for the interview.

She stayed at home all day not feeling up to the mark to step out of home. Finally at night, she changed into her night shirt and loose pyjamas and slipped into her warm duvet and drifted off into deep slumber praying for a fresh start the next day.

~~~

Next Day, Khushi woke up early and went for a jog to rejuvenate herself. She took continuous rounds of the jogger’s park.

“Just be confident Khushi! Everything will be alright!” she assured herself and made her way to the nearby bench. She tilted her head back and closed her eyes.

She suddenly heard a voice, “Water?” she opened her eyes and found a young guy of her age offering her a bottle of water.

“No thanks!” she replied curtly and quickly jogged out of the park.

She had a quick shower and dressed up into formals. She made her way down for breakfast.

“Good Morning Dad!” she greeted cheerfully.

“Morning beta! All ready for the interview?” asked Mr. Gupta.

“Yes Dad!” she confirmed and got on with gobbling her breakfast as quick as possible in turn not getting late for the scheduled interview.

She finished and got up, “Bye Dad! I’m taking the car today!” she said in a hurry, dropping a kiss on her Dad’s cheek and she ran out taking the keys of the car.

She zoomed off in her car and reached AR by 8.45am. She walked through the lobby to the reception.

“Good Morning! I have an interview scheduled for today!” she said to the receptionist.

“Please have a seat. ASR has not yet arrived!” informed the receptionist.

Khushi smiled and sat in the lobby flipping through her file with a confident smile adorning her face.

A man walked in called for all the candidates one by one for the interview to his cabin. Finally it was Khushi’s turn. She walked to the door and knocked.

“May I come in Sir?” she asked confidently.

“Yes!” came a reply.

She went in and she heard him tell her to have a seat. She handed over her file to him.

“Oh! Miss Gupta!” he greeted cheerfully.

“Do you know me?” she asked point blank.

“Yeah, Mr. Gupta had informed me that you wanted to come for the interview!” he replied.

Khushi nodded.

“By the way I’m Aman Mathur! ASR’s right hand man!” he said with a smile.

“Khushi Gupta!” she replied with a smile.

“So why do you want to work here when you have your Dad’s Company to head?” asked Aman with a raised eyebrow.

“I need to be independent and plus I need experience to run my own company! And if I work in our company, I will be treated as a higher authority which I do not want at all!” she replied genuinely.

“Nice!” he said impressed by her truthful answer.

Khushi smiled.

“So Miss Gupta, I guess you need to be around for the second round of interview with ASR!” he said.

“Thank you so much Mr. Mathur!” she replied.

“Please call me Aman!” he said.

“Then it’s Khushi for you!” she replied and made her way out of his cabin.

~~~

Arnav got up and got ready in his three piece suit and made his way to work after grabbing a glass of juice. He walked into the main door with his shades on and walked up directly into his cabin not paying a heed to anyone.

He quickly called Aman into his cabin.

“How many candidates are eligible?” asked Arnav.

“ASR! There is Miss Gupta, daughter of Mr. Gupta. She is here for an interview and she is the only one worth it! I personally felt all the other were only interested in ogling at you!” replied Aman as a matter of fact-ly.

Arnav smirked as Aman continued, “She wants to work her because she wants to be treated as a normal person and also wants to gain some experience!”

“Send her in!” he commanded.

Aman nodded and went into the lobby to send Khushi into ASR’s cabin. Soon Arnav heard a knock on his cabin door.

“Come in!” he called out.

Khushi walked in confidently with a smile adorning her face.

Arnav looked up at the gorgeous girl walking into his cabin wearing formals and a confident smile. The formal suit was making her look too gorgeous. Her milky white complexion, the deep red lipstick and the petite waist; He just could not take his eyes off her when his thoughts were broken by her clearing her throat.

“Good Morning Mr. Raizada!” she greeted.

“Finally I’m meeting you Miss Gupta. I was to meet you the day before at the party but got too busy with friends and clients!” said Arnav.

Khushi drifted into the memories of that night but then regained confidence and nodded with a smile.

“Aman told me why you want to work with AR, but are you sure you want to work as my PA? This post is not eligible for you! You deserve something higher!” he said stating the obvious facts.

“That does not matter Mr. Raizada. It’s all about gaining self confidence and becoming more independent. In fact that is the sole reason! If i were to work in Dad’s company, they would probably treat me like her royal highness!” she replied with a slight smirk.

Arnav grinned, “Alright Miss Gupta! You can start work from today! You can talk to Aman. He will brief you with your work!” he said.

“Thank you Mr. Raizada!” she replied.

“You can call me ASR!” he said.

“Okay ASR!” she smiled and walked out of his cabin to meet Aman.

Coerced Alliance: Chapter 29

Writer's Comments

It has been a long time since I updated my favorite FF, so here is an update. I can't wait to start Season 2, but that will be after June 19th. I may post Prologue before hand, with Chapter 1. I will see.

So give me your love, and type a comment! :)

Love Mishty

Chapter 29

The car came to a slow stop, outside Khushi’s college. Khushi looked at Arnav with a smile, on her face. She looked at him with admiration. Arnav glanced at her in awe. They had both come a far away, since their Coerced Alliance.

We are here Khushi, said Arnav.

Hmm, why don’t you come in? I want to introduce you to my friends, said Khushi.

They know about the marriage? asked Arnav, in shock.

Actually, a girl named Simran saw us in Italy, they thought that you were my boyfriend, and to clear up that misunderstanding, I had to tell them the truth, explained Khushi.

Oh, okay then, let’s go! said Arnav.

Umm, I haven’t mentioned your name yet. Well, Nani told me that it has to be a secret, said Khushi.

Hmm, okay. It doesn’t matter, they are your friends. We can tell them. I am sure they are dying to meet me, said Arnav while smirking. Khushi looked at him, while nodding her head.

Both of them stepped out of the car. Arnav slid his aviators, behind his ears, covering his eyes, from the bright sun. Khushi looked up in admiration. Everyone inside the college, stopped what they were doing. All they saw was Arnav Singh Raizada striding in with some plain Jane. Girls just stood there shocked out of their wits. The principal soon came out listening to the dead silence, when he saw ASR approaching.

Everyone, get back to your classes, RIGHT NOW! shouted the Principal. Most of the students ran away hearing the loud voice, and not wanting to get into trouble.

Sorry, ASR about this. How can I help you? asked the Principal in uttermost sincerity.

Its okay, Mr. Sharma, I just came to drop my wife, said Arnav.

Your wife? gasped the principal. He looked at Khushi. Arnav turned to Khushi as well, placing a hand on her waist.

Meet my wife, Mrs. Khushi Arnav Singh Raizada! said Arnav, with pride.

I didn’t know. I am so sorry. Hello Mrs. Raizada, said the Principal.

Sir, I am your student, you can still call me Khushi. We wanted to keep it a secret sir, because of the media, and I didn’t want to be treated differently, said Khushi.

Hmm, okay. I will make sure no-one finds out. Anyway, today is your last day in College, so enjoy. If you need anything ASR, then please inform us. We are really thankful that you fund this Institution and take on graduates from our college, said the Principal.

Don’t be. They are talented Individuals, I would know because my wife is one of them. Okay, we will see you later! said Arnav. The Principal took that as a sign to leave. He greeted them again, and left them alone.

Arnav looked at khushi.

So, where can we find your friends? said Arnav.

They are probably in the canteen, we will find them there, said Khushi.

Okay, then let’s go! said Arnav.

-

They walked in together into the canteen. It was the last day of college, so for Khushi and Khushi’s friends, they had no classes, where as all the other years had classes. It was a nice day, so most people were spending it outside, however NK, Lavanya, Riya and Arjun were sitting in the canteen for privacy.

They were just chilling out together, having some snacks, while catching up with each other. They all saw Khushi coming, with a man beside her, holding her waist. A man, who they instantly recognised.

Lavanya’s eyes popped out, while Riya started coughing. NK fell off his chair, while Arjun still sat there, looking as calm as he was before.

Khushi came to their table and smiled at them.

Hey, Guys. Let me introduce you to my husband –

Arnav Singh Raizada, nice to meet you, Arnav said with a smirk, interrupting Khushi with a dashing smile and squeeze at her waist. Lavanya almost fainted. The most eligible bachelor is married, that to their best friend. Riya smiled at her Jiju, while NK was ecstatic for his friend.

Arjun got up and shook hands with him.

Nice to meet you too, please join us, said Arjun. Arnav & Khushi both sat down.

I am Arjun, this is Riya, NK and Lavanya! said Arjun.

Nice to meet you all, said Arnav in return.

Wow, you are our Jeeju! Said Riya.

Yes, my saali! Replied Arnav sweetly. Khushi smiled while looking up at him.

Khushi, I can’t believe you would hide him from us! said Lavanya with mock anger.

Oh come on my saali’s, it’s not my dear wife’s fault. I told her not to tell you because of the media, said Arnav.

The media? Asked Arjun.

If the media found out that Khushi was studying in the his college, then they would not leave her, said Arnav carefully.

We actually haven’t announced to the world yet, that we are married, well not officially anyway, because Khushi wants to finish her education first, said Arnav.

AWWWW....that is so cute! I hope I get a husband like you! Do you have any brothers? asked Lavanya hopefully, while everyone else laughed.

Yes, I do! Unfortunately he is married, tum pehle nahi mili na! Said Arnav.

Hmm! Said Lavanya.

They sat down and talked for hours, getting to know each other in detail.

Okay, we have to go now, but you must come two days later to our house, I am sure the rest of our family is dying to meet you, said Arnav.

Sure, said NK.

We will be there.

Okay everyone we will talk to you later, bye! said Khushi.

Arnav and Khushi both left towards home.

Precap: Pyaar ka Ishar

Branded: Chapter 2

A FF collaboration between myself (Mishty Shah) and Mrinalini!

I will be updating on blog, while a thread has been opened on IF as well. 

Please shower us with your love!

Writer's Comments

Thank you for the overwhelming response and such appreciative comments! Please keep them coming, we read all the comments.

We would just like to clarify to all our readers that Khushi was not raped by Arnav. She was touched, and she probably feels violated, but she still is a virgin. Being touched by a stranger can be traumatic, and can change the way someone behaves.

We hope you like this story.

~ Love Mishty & Mrinalini ~

Chapter 2

Khushi woke up with a clear goal in her mind. She knew whatever happened yesterday was not right, and the man was clearly not in his senses, however it should have not happened to her or any other girl for that matter. She needed to get revenge from the man, who destroyed her purity. 

Since she had woken up, she had tried to get rid of his touch from her body. She went into the shower, and turned on the cold water. As the water cascaded down her body, she grabbed a sponge and squeezed the soap into the sponge. She rubbed the sponge against her naked body, harshly, trying to erase his touch from her body. She felt unclean. 

However much she cleaned, that touch could not be forgotten. Finally her knees weak, she slid down the shower wall and sat down, while the water flowing from above drenched her. She didn’t know how long she sat there, staring into oblivion. Her fingers were wrinkled. 

She was branded with his touch. 

Suddenly there was a harsh knocking on the door; the maid had come to find her. She suddenly jerked up and looked at the door. She followed her instincts, she replied as if everything was normal. She couldn’t let anyone find out; otherwise her reputation would be ruined. Her father was a well-known businessman. Respect and Reputation had meant everything to him. In a society where the family name was very prestigious, it would be a big crime to let her secret out. The socialites of Delhi would make this a page 3 story, which would affect her father’s business. 

Her father had meant everything to her since a young age. He had looked after her, from the age of 5, when her mother died from brain tumour. She couldn’t remember he mother, but her father had always told her that she was as beautiful as her. Only if fate had not been against them, then maybe she would be still here. 

Khushi Gupta had never missed her mum so much, as much as she missed her now. She needed someone to share all her troubles. Her heart was getting heavier with all these thoughts. She didn’t want to fight alone, but she knew that she couldn’t involve anyone else too, because if this news spread, then it would destroy them. 

Her father couldn’t know either because he would get her married to someone as soon as possible. She knew how much he loved her, but he would want her to settle quickly before anyone else found out. She couldn’t let this happen. 

It had been her childhood dream to become independent, like her father, rising to all the challenges in life. She wanted to show the world that she was capable to do something in life, rather than just to enjoy the luxuries that her father had given her. If she wanted to make her dream come true, then she would have to keep this to herself. With that thought, she grabbed the nearest towel, and wrapped it around her cold body. She had a clear goal in her mind. She stepped outside the bathroom, and quickly got dressed. 

She left her room and walked straight into her dad’s office. Her father was on the phone and he told her to wait, silently. She grabbed a chair in front of the desk, and sat down, waiting patiently for him to finish the conversation. 

Soon he was finished, and he looked at his daughter. 

“Good Morning beta how was your sleep? You came back early last night!” said her father. 

“Yes dad, I was really tired,” said Khushi. 

“Did you enjoy the party? I know that I took you forcefully, but you are 22 and you really need to start attending these parties. I never forced you before, but I think you need to meet some people from the business world,” said her father. 

“Yes dad, you are right. I need to get out more. That is why I have decided that I should start working, it would give my career a boost,” said Khushi. 

“That’s brilliant beta, you could work in the office!” squealed her father with pride. 

“Wait, Dad no! I mean I want to work, but not for our company. I want to do something for myself for once, without being just given to me. I need to do this myself please, dad!” said Khushi. 

“Why do you want to work for someone else when we have a big company ourselves? At some point this company will be yours to run!” said her dad, impatiently. 

“I know dad, when the time comes. However, I need some experience right now. I know if I come to work in our company, I will be treated as a higher authority, and I want to be treated normally. Please dad, a year in another company is all I am asking for,” said Khushi, with a sigh. She looked at her father with anticipation and eagerness. She could tell that he was currently analysing her words in great depth. 

“I am not happy about this, but since you want this so badly, I will agree! Have you decided where you want to apply?” asked her father. 

“I haven’t looked yet!” said Khushi. 

“Okay, there is an opening in AR for a secretarial post. I know the CEO of AR very well, a talented young boy, graduated from Harvard. I know that interviews are currently being held. I can only recommend you so that you will be offered an interview; the rest is up to you,” said her father. 

“Thanks dad, I love you so much!” said Khushi, as she got up from her chair and hugged him in glee. She knew that her father would understand. He may be slightly strict, but he loves her. He smiled at her. 

“I love you too,” said her father. He texted someone, and soon his phone beeped. 

“Bingo, the interview is at sharp 9.00 am at AR, tomorrow. I spoke to Aman, he is ASR’s right hand man, and he will make sure that your name is down for selection. All the best! You are a Gupta, remember that and we never lose!” said her father, kissing her on her forehead. 

“I will remember that dad!” replied Khushi. 

Khushi left the room, feeling gleeful. At least now she could work. She went to her room and began prepping for her interview at AR. 

The morning sun had risen to the highest point in the blue sky. The humming birds were chirping gleefully while the frogs were hopping in between the Lily pads. The sycamore tree was swaying in light, gentle, mid-summer breeze. Although the morning was bright, the atmosphere was dull. Like a heavy storm had just passed. 

Arnav Singh Raizada opened his eyes. His vision was hazy. He was woken up from his dream. The dream where he was kissing, a girl. Her soft, white skin. Her soft red lips. She was an angel. He wondered where he could find someone like her, probably didn’t even exist. In the dream, he couldn’t see her face though. He could only feel and smell. Her rosy scent. 

Great Arnav Singh Raizada is now making up women in his mind. Grow up ASR, he thought. 

He came out of his thoughts and looked around and saw that he was sleeping outside by the sycamore tree. His head felt heavy. He couldn’t remember much, from yesterday. The hangover was bad. He slowly got up, holding his head in pain. He tried to remember, what had happened. He was out with his friends and was drinking. He probably had too much to drink and passed out, while his friends decided to leave him there. 

He began walking back to the mansion. He had given holidays to all the staff for today. He didn’t want any hassle, however now it looked like a bad idea. He strode into his bedroom and decided to have a hot shower, easing his muscles. 

He came out of the shower and decided to make some green tea, to reduce the hangover. It was a Sunday, so he was fairly relaxed. He decided to check his schedule, but it was all over the place. This was why he needed a secretary to take care of all of this. 

Why did I fire the last one? He asked himself this question, probably because she spent too much time looking at him.

Branded: Chapter 1

A FF collaboration between myself (Mishty Shah) and Mrinalini!

I will be updating on blog, while a thread has been opened on IF as well. 

Please shower us with your love!

Writer's Comments

Thank you for the overwhelming response and such appreciative comments!Please keep them coming! It encourages us to write better!

Well this was a very tough chapter to write. It displays dark emotions. We hope you like it. It's a different concept and we are trying something new, for the first time.

~ Love Mishty & Mrinalini ~

Chapter 1

Before, Arnav could utter a syllable, they were gone. Arnav carried on drinking, thinking that they will send someone.

Rickesh and Vicky walked into the mansion and went to Arnav’s room and fell on the bed. They soon drifted into deep slumber forgetting that they were to send a girl to Arnav. Arnav kept waiting and continued to drink.

Inside the mansion a pretty girl was loitering around with a champagne tulip in her hand.

“Why the hell does Dad have to bring me to these boring business parties?” she thought to herself when suddenly a voice broke her chain of thoughts, “KHUSHI!” She turned around and saw her father.

“Yeah Dad!” she replied in a bored tone.

“I know you’re bored beta, but I don’t like leaving you alone at home! Go and get some fresh air, make some friends. We’ll leave in a while,” said Mr. Gupta.

Khushi nodded and walked out of the mansion. The cool breeze was caressing her soft skin. She wrapped her arms around herself and walked to the garden which was spread over acres. It was too dark to see anything clearly. The lights in the garden were turned off. Suddenly she tripped over something and fell. She expected to fall on the grass but she fell on something hard. Her hands roamed all over the hard surface. She realized it was cloth.

“Huh?” she said in shock when suddenly a pair of arms wrapped around her petite waist.

“So missy, you’re finally here! I have been waiting for someone for a long time now!” said the husky voice. Due to the closeness, Khushi could only smell alcohol in the man’s breath. She tried to push away and get up when the pair of arms tightened their grip on his waist. She tried to see his face, but she couldn’t in the sheer darkness.

“Not so soon darling! I haven’t finished with you yet,” the man whispered huskily and pulled her more into him and placed a wet kiss on the crook of her neck. Khushi shivered with his touch.

“Leave me!” she shouted.

“Ahaan..I will darling but not before our midnight fun is over honey!”, he said cheekily. With this, he brushed his lips onto hers and bit her lower lip.

“Aah! Leave me!” she cried in pain. Arnav on the other hand was in no mood to listen to her. Her perfume was creating havoc in him. He deepened the kiss and nibbled on her lips. Her hand kept pushing him and trying to get up. The man got irritated and rolled over and got himself on top of her. He forced his tongue into her mouth and kissed her senselessly tasting every corner of her mouth.

The man was too heavy for Khushi to push off, but she couldn’t give in. Her eyes welled up with tears. The man went down to her swan like neck and kissed and nipped her soft milky skin. She held his hair and pulled it trying to hurt him which was in turn turning him on.

He slipped the strap of the dress and bit her shoulder. His hand travelled from her petite waist all the way up to her bosom.

Khushi gritted her teeth and pushed him off and got up. Before she could regain balance, she was pulled back on top of him. His hand pressed her soft bosom. The pair of hands soon travelled to her hip. She felt his hand on her derriere, a lone tear dropped out of her welled up eyes.

Before she knew it, the pair of hand reached the bottom of the dress and pulled it over her and the dress was thrown away. She was lying in her inner wear on a drunken stranger with his hands all over her semi naked body. She gritted her teeth in anger and pain and clutched her fists.

The hard pair of hands then made their way to her bare back and clipped open her bra and threw it away. She was rolled over by him as he feasted on her bosom, kissing and sucking it.

“Please leave me!” she cried out a whisper.

The man continued massaging her bosom. He pushed his manhood against her softness. Her eyes opened in shock as her mind registered his hardness rubbing over her femininity. His lips travelled down, trailing wet kisses all of her stomach. She could feel his teeth biting the waistband of her panty.

“Please don’t!” she cried out. The man slipped out her panty and parted her legs. He kissed her inner thighs and nipped the soft skin of her thighs. She felt his lips on her womanhood. He tickled and stimulated her arousal. She tried to push him off, while hissing in disgust. His tongue rolled in erotic pleasure, eliciting an unwanted moan from her thoroughly kissed lips.

“You taste like heaven!” said the man huskily.

Khushi clutched her fists hard. The man kept nibbling on her womanhood and came back up and kissed her bosom. Suddenly it all stopped. She could feel the man lie on her bosom. She pushed him aside and got up. She searched for her clothes and put them on quickly and ran away from that place.

She ran for her life. She was crying in pain, anger and disgust. She couldn’t wait for her father so she ran on the dark, empty and isolated streets of Delhi. She ran as if she were saving her life.

She reached her home and opened the door with shivering hands. She fled up the stairs to her room. She entered her room and banged the door behind her. She locked it and ran to the bathroom. She stripped herself making her dress pool around her feet. She stepped out and examined her body in the mirror with tears still brimming in her eyes.

Her hand went back and clipped open her bra. All she could see were red marks all over her body. She removed her panty and looked at herself in disgust.

“Why me?” she shouted in anger. She switched on the hot shower and stood under it letting all the touches of that stranger wash off her body.

She wiped her body with the towel and wrapped herself. She walked out and changed into her night suit.

Tears trickled down her welled up eyes and before she could stop them, the thoughts of that man haunted her and she began to cry. She sobbed with her mind full of questions as to why it happened to her. Who was the man, who did this to her?

“I will teach that man a lesson if I ever find out who he was!” she said gaining some confidence. She continued, “This was not my mistake! I’m not at fault”, she told herself and fell on her bed with dried tears marking her cheeks and the haunted memories of the night in her mind.

All she could do is regain her confidence and start a fresh next morning.

Branded: Prologue

A FF collaboration between myself (Mishty Shah) and Mrinalini!

I will be updating on blog, while a thread has been opened on IF as well. 

Please shower us with your love!

Writer's Comments

Well, we have just started. We hope you like the concept. This concept was given to me by a dear friend "Annie Anshra". So thank you my dear friend. I hope we do justice to your story!

Love,

~ Mishty and Mrinalini ~

Prologue

It was a dark night. The wind was howling while the trees were swaying in the silver moon light. It was the night of the bring celebration. In the outskirts of Delhi, a black limousine lined up in front of the Raizada Farmhouse. The door opened to reveal a handsome man. The press was cooing with excitement. Reporters were trying to get as near as possible.

Arnav Singh Raizada stepped out of the limousine, with his two bodyguards. He was a dark, handsome man. Dominance oozed out of his body. He was dressed in a crisp, black suit. Every girl wanted to stand next to him, just so it could flourish their careers. His face revealed nothing as he strode into his mansion.

He had just won the title of being “The Best Business Man of 2013”. It was something to be proud of. The party was held at his farmhouse to honour this success. He didn’t spare a glance at anyone. The party had already started, but ASR was known to attend parties late.

The minute he entered, there was silence in the hall, and everyone began to clap with joy. He made a short speech, of thanking each and everyone to attend this party and for congratulating him on his success. Glasses were raised and toasts were made.

As soon as that was finished, he swiftly walked to the bar to join his best friends. Rickesh and Vicky looked up when he arrived and gave him a hug.

“Congratulations, my friend. You deserve it,” said Rickesh.

“Yes congrats. Now since you are finally here, let’s get this party started!” said Vicky.

“Thanks, it’s good to be back. AR designs is now internationally the best!” said Arnav.

“Yes, all to your hard work!” said Rickesh.

Rickesh and Vicky ushered the waiter to arrange some shots. Arnav looked at them and was nodding no, but Rickesh held him and made him down a shot.

Then another one.

Then a third.

Then a fourth.

Fifth.

Sixth.

By the sixth shot, Arnav was totally gone. He was smashed. Vicky and Rickesh helped him outside, into the garden, by the sycamore tree. It was there spot. They always used to hang out side by this tree. They had also bought some drinks with them outside. Suddenly the garden lights were switched off. It was too dark. They couldn’t even see each other’s faces, someone must have accidentally switched off the lights.

They sat him down, by the tree.

“Now the real celebration starts!” said Vicky.

Soon Rickesh and Vicky were also heavily drunk due to the strong bourbon spirits. They nudged Arnav by the tree. He was looking at them.

“I like your secretary, she’s hot!” said Rickesh.

“Yeah – how come you haven’t bedded her yet? If you won’t, I will!” said Vicky.

“She’s just after the money and the status – like all the other bitches!” spat out Arnav.

“What you need to do, is to have some sex with a stranger!” suggested Rickesh.

“Yeah – dude. That is perfect. You can do it tonight as well. It’s the celebration night – you deserve some relief!” said Vicky.

“No, you pricks. I can’t just have some sex with a stranger!” shouted Arnav, opening another bottle to drink.

“I dare you – Arnav Singh Raizada to have sex with a stranger! Come on, be a man! We will go inside, and send you a nice girl to enjoy! You wait here!” said Rickesh.

“Yeah, we will get a line of girls, they aren’t gonna refuse some hot mid-night sex with you!” said Vicky.

Before, Arnav could utter a syllable, they were gone. Arnav carried on drinking, thinking that they will send someone.

The Wilted Rose: Epilogue

Writer's Comments

Well, this is final update. I hope you like it and it is not too cheesy for you all. Life isn't perfect you all and people do not get everything you want. Well I hope you liked this journey.

So please show your love by your comments. 

Love, 

Mishty

Epilogue

It had been a few days since the funeral of Rohan. She had seen him there. His eyes only held pain, for her. The brown orbs which always used to give her energy to live had now lost their spark. His eyes had dark circles.

He didn't once look at her during the funeral. It was just the family, he supported.

He was there for them. Somehow that thought was not very pleasing.

Did she want him to look at her?

Maybe –

Did she want him to support her?

Yes.

No –

Maybe.

The ETF team also came to the funeral, to give her there support. Rohan was an integral part of her life, one that she just can’t forget. He was her best friend, lover and husband. He was everything.

She liked Arnav, just as a friend, maybe because he saved her life, which made her feel slightly guilty at her behavior towards him. However was guilt enough, to just marry him?

No, it wasn't.

She knew that she had made the right decision, but why does this decision hurt so much?

It was then that she decided that was over thinking things and just left it. She saw him walk away from her – for the second time.

~ 6 Months Later ~

She felt really tired. Her eyes were forming dark circles. She just couldn’t sleep at night. She thought that after coming to her parent’s house, she might forget all the tragic things that have been happening in her life, but it was a nightmare that kept coming back. Whenever she closed her eyes, she could only see him. His soft, brown, orbs looking at her.

His eyes were haunting her.

After the funeral, she hadn't seen him. She couldn’t see him, because she knew that she was lying to herself when she had said that he wasn't affecting her.

He was. One look at him now, and she would agree to his every demand.

These 6 months had been hard. Everyone around her was frustrating her. They were showing her their sympathy. She didn’t want sympathy; she just wanted to behave normally. She wanted to forget about it, but the people around her, wouldn’t let her. She had moved out of her parents place. She needed some space, needed to be around new people, yet everything reminded of Arnav.

For once she admitted to herself that she was wrong about the whole thing. Right now – she was not moving on, she was exactly the same. The only thing that changed was the location.

She needed to see him.

She loved him. But would that betray Rohan’s love?

No it wouldn’t! Rohan would want her to be happy, and her happiness lies within Arnav.

She needed a companion, and some people said it right, that life is just too short, and you should spend it with someone who you like.

She needed to go and see him.

She will go, today.

Khushi had reached AR designs. It was almost lunch time. She didn't want to miss him. She walked up to the receptionist.

“Hello...Can you please point out Arnav Singh Raizada’s cabin? I need to see him, it is very important!” said khushi.

“Your name, ma’am?” asked the receptionist.

“Khushi Gupta,” replied Khushi.

“You’re the Khushi! Ma’am come this way, Sir has been expecting you!” replied the receptionist. She gave her a wide grin.

Expecting her?

Now that was unexpected. She didn't remember informing him that she was coming to see him.

Now that was a shock.

Does that mean all this time; he knew that she would come to him?

That he had been waiting for her to come. The receptionist led her upstairs, into one of the private lifts, which was only used by the staff members.

Most of the people were staring at her, probably wondering who she was.

She was here now, but now she felt nervous.

What would she say?

Would Arnav even listen to her now?

These questions were constantly being played in her mind. They halted just outside the cabin door, and the receptionist bid adieu, and left.

She knocked lightly on the cabin door, hoping that he wouldn’t hear it and then she would be forced to go back.

Arnav was reading through the file, when he heard a faint knock. He said “come in”. He heard the door open, and someone enter.

There was silence for a few minutes, and then he looked up.

It was her.

He didn't know what to believe, was she standing here for real? Or was she just a fragment of his imagination. He got up and walked up to her.

“Hi,” she said meekly, as she felt him move closer.

“Why are you here?” asked Arnav.

She could see he was tired. Tired of working or her?

He had grown a light beard. It looked sexy.

She had always been attracted to him; he carried a strong aura around him, which could make any woman weak in the knees, not that she would admit that to him.

“I had a few things to say to you, that I should have said 6 months ago, but I am saying them now!” said Khushi. He nodded his head to tell her to carry on.

“When you said to move on, I wanted to but it wasn't easy. I was a widow and Rohan was the love of my life. I had just lost him and in a way I would be betraying his love, if I married you.

“I walked away at that time, away from you. When I saw you at the funeral, I saw how you helped my family yet again. You didn't have to, but you did. You didn't once look at me. I thought you might be angry, but all I saw was pain, which I gave you. I let you walk away again.

“I tried to stay away from you, away from your care. These six months have been very painful. I missed a friend, a lover and a husband. There was no-one to fill that void. I couldn’t go to sleep, because every night, I would only see you.

“I was trying to not give you Rohan’s place in my heart, but I didn't realise that you already made space for yourself!” said Khushi.

Arnav stared at her in shock.

Tears were pouring out her eyes. He wanted to go up to her and kiss her senseless, but he also wanted to hear her thoughts. He wanted to know, what was in her mind. He always knew that she would come back, but he didn't imagine it to be like this.

He had already said to his receptionist, that one day a girl named “Khushi Gupta” would come, and at that time, she was to bring her straight to this cabin, using the private elevator. He was pulled out of his thoughts, when he heard her speak again.

“I can’t remove Rohan out of my mind, he was my first love, but I will try to move on. I want to give us a chance. I want to feel loved. I know I have given you lots of pain and you probably don’t want to see me again...” said Khushi, but she was instantly hushed by Arnav’s hand on her mouth.

In the next minute, she was pulled into his arms and kissed senselessly. His lips molded over hers in an erotic dance. His arms soothed her back, while pulling her in more deeply, so that her body was perfectly aligned with his. His tongue danced with hers, nipping and teasing. Her heart beat soared with this kiss. His arms moved from her back to her hips, pulling and squeezing, eliciting sweet moans from her mouth.

It was a few minutes before their passionate kiss had ended. She looked up dazed at him, shocked. She had never been kissed before, never on the lips. Her eyes blinked twice to see if she was dreaming or did that kiss really happen?

She saw a smirk on his face, and instantly knew that it was true. She had been kissed. A soft blush decorated her face. She looked like a fresh red rose.

He pulled her more into his arms and made her look up at him.

“Never say that I don’t want you. I will always want you. I told you that I would always wait for you. I love you khushi. I know that you can’t forget Rohan. I don’t want you to, but I hope you can make some room for me too!” said Arnav with a smile.

Who said you can’t get lucky?

He just did.

Khushi nodded her head with a smile. Arnav bent down and kissed her head and whispered “I love you,” into her ears.

Khushi hugged him and said “I love you too!”

It was not the perfect ending, but a fresh, new beginning for both of them.

The Wilted Rose: Chapter 11

Writer's Comments

This is the last chapter of this story. Next one will be epilogue.

Sorry, I had to take a long break of two weeks. My life is very difficult at the moment of time. I have exams May-June which decide my career to be honest.

So I have decided to give you 1 update every week, from next week. I am so busy with preparations that I do not have time to type. So I hope everyone's okay with that arrangement. Also, when I get time, I might type extra but it depends on my times.

Also I will update every Wednesday, so just check that day.

Love, 

Mishty

Chapter 11

They all retired back to the ETF office. Khushi sat with Priya, and assured her that everything will be okay.

As soon as they stepped inside, Khushi’s parents ran to hug her, while her in-laws also looked at her.

“Bitya, they wouldn’t let us meet you! You are okay! My bachi is okay!” screamed her mother.

“Khushi,” her dad whispered.  She just hug them both. Soon they parted and she looked at her in-laws.

“I am sorry beti. You are still are daughter no matter what! Khushi we want you to move on, forget that there was ever any wedding. We can’t see you become a widow!” said Rohan’s dad. She looked at her mother-in-law.

“He is right Khushi! We cannot keep you confined in one house! Move on, even Rohan would want that!” said her mother-in-law. Khushi nodded with tears in her eyes. Khushi hugged them once again.

They soon separated. The ETF team came forward and explained to their parents that Singhania was the one who murdered their son, Rohan. The parents were shocked.

“Sorry, for keeping you here. We needed all the information and we also needed to keep Khushi hidden,” explained Rathod.

“However, now you’re free to go! The case is closed! Rohan’s body can now be returned to you,” said Arjun.

Rajan turned towards his dad and hugged him. His parents were at least happy that he was safe and sound. They looked to his right and found a girl, who was standing there. His parents and Rajan shared a look.

“She’s your future daughter-in-law!” said Rajan, in a tone which meant this was not meant to be discussed any further. His mom nodded his head.

Priya looked up at him alarmed and yelled “NO.”

“I will not marry you! I am not pure! You do not deserve me!” she yelled.

Rajan’s anger grew and he pulled her. She tried to get out of his embrace, by pushing him and hitting him on his chest. His hold just got tighter. Her jerked her, so she fell on him slightly.

“No – listen to me! PRIYA!” he yelled, which made her quiet. She was scared when he yelled. He could see the pain in her eyes.

“What has happened in the last couple of days does not change the fact about how much I love you. You are the purest woman I have met. I love you. You cannot leave me Priya. Without you I am a dark shadow.

“I need you in my life, beside me. I want you to be there with me through every phase of my life. I want to watch us grow old. I only want you. You are my heart and soul. I will not be able to live without you.

Somewhere, I am to blame for your condition. I could not look after you like I promised I would. You are not the one with the fault, I am. So don’t you dare blame yourself! I love you and you love me. That is the only thing important. Forget about everyone else. Marry me Priya. Marry me!” said Rajan.

She could only nod her head. They all clapped in glee with that confession. Arnav looked at Khushi, if only they could be ones like that.

Rajan pulled Priya for a hug. He kissed her on the forehead.

The parents then thanked the ETF team. Khushi’s parents came forward and thanked Arnav for all his help.

“Thank you, beta! You saved my daughter, May god bless you!” said Khushi’s mom.

“No aunty, it was nothing!” said Arnav.

“No it was, No-one does so much for anyone! Please come and visit us soon!” said Khushi’s dad.

“Please come for his funeral!” said Rohan’s dad.

“He would want you there! Also all of the ETF team as well, you got my son justice!” repeated Rohan’s Mum.

“I will be there!” said Arnav. The ETF team nodded as well.

Suddenly Rathod addressed both sets of parents and said that there has to be some formalities done so they can take the body home. The four elders left, leaving the youngsters.

After the case was closed, Arnav and Khushi decided to grab a coffee together, while Rajan soothed Priya.

There was a small canteen and they both decided to stay in there.

“So much has happened in these days! I thought I was strong, but I am not. I am very weak! If it wasn’t for you, then I would have gone into depression!” said Khushi, “After Singhania is caught, I have to go back to my house and stare at those dark walls.”

“Maybe you don’t have to be alone!” said Arnav. Khushi looked up at him confused, he explained slowly, letting his words sink in. He knew he was taking a risk.

“Maybe, you should truly move on in your life. Live like Rohan would want you to live!” said Arnav.

“You mean get married again?” shouted Khushi.

“Are you insane? Do you even know what you are talking about? Who would want to marry a widow?” asked Khushi.

“I would. I know we have only met each other since two days, but I know a lot about you already! You need to move on in your life khushi, so why not now? And the kiss in the morning proves that you like me too!”

“Arnav, I have just lost a husband. I cannot think of marrying someone else. That kiss – I was scared, worried, I had a shattered heart. I wasn’t thinking straight. I am sorry Arnav! I am sorry if I gave you the wrong signal. I am just not ready for this right now!” said Khushi.

She got up to leave but was stopped by a voice.

“I will wait for you Khushi, forever. When you know you are ready, you know where to find me!” said Arnav, he walked out of the headquarters, not looking back at her. He knew she needed space.

He will give her space.

Khushi felt him walk away. She knew she was harsh, but she was not mentally prepared to get married again. She loved Rohan, and would love him. She couldn’t just let someone else take her heart.

She couldn’t.

However, after watching him walk away from her, she felt that she just made the biggest mistake of her life. She found her parents; they hugged her once more and took her back to their house. She didn’t go to her in-laws because every inch of that house would remind her of Rohan. She couldn’t go back there, not without him, her Rohan.

Arjun Suryakanth Rawte was surprised. Now that was a first, even for him. He was amazed at the love Rajan had for Priya. At one point of time, he was like that. He used to be a well-behaved son, a romantic boyfriend and a caring husband. However at this point in time, all those emotions were gone.

However, there was one person who evoked all these emotions.

Riya Mukherjee.

She was attractive, fun, caring. She had all the traits of a good person in her. The first time he met her, he was mesmerized by her eyes. They spoke volumes. He had tried to stay away from her, constantly pushing her away, insulting her, hoping that she would go back to her research desk. However nothing had worked.

Instead, the attraction was growing even more.

However, today he realised that in life Change is constant and that life is too short. He would give the relationship a chance. He knew Roshni would want him to move on in his life. He would take things slow, see where they were heading. He won’t betray Roshni, he would make her happy. The realisation brought a rare smile on his face, as he watched Riya laughing with Shree.

Everyone needed love in their lives, even those who never wanted to love again.