Hi,
I am updating it in wattpad dear.
you can search on wattpad by this story name.
(A/N: Here is the newest chapter ... do let me know what you think of it. I am a little rusty, written it after almost 4 years.)
---- Next Day – Sunday Evening
Khushi's heart picked up speed as their car stopped in front of the venue. There were reporters and paparazzi around and cameras where constantly clicking. Arnav went out of the car and came to Khushi's side. He extended his hand taking Khushi's hand, helping her out of the car. Khushi glanced around nervously and take a huge breath ... telling herself not to be nervous.
Arnav wound his arm around her and they both move inside amidst the clicking of cameras and questions shouting from reporters. They were escorted to the venue hall which was also buzzing with activity. There were many people, some standing and some sitting.
A representative guided Arnav and Khushi to their table. Khushi saw a small sign of AR DESIGNZ placed on the table. Aman and Lavanya were already there. They greeted each other and sit down. After some time Mamaji, Mamiji and Akash also came. Khushi greeted them and started talking to Mamiji. Nani and Rahul stayed back as Anjali was not feeling well due to morning sickness.
Khushi was feeling proud of Arnav, when every now and then someone would come and greet Arnav, praising him on the success of Paris and Milan Fashion show. Lavanya and Aman were also busy talking with different people. She couldn't help but notice some tension between Aman and Lavanya. Usually they would stand close or glance at each other, but right now it was the opposite.
After some time the host announces for everyone to settle down on their designated places as the show will be staring in few minutes. They all settled down in their chairs, Arnav and Khushi sit side by side with Mamiji on Khushi's right and Arnav on left. Khushi noticed that Lavanya sit between Akash and Mamaji and Aman was sitting on the other side of Arnav with Akash on his other side.
Some thing is definitely wrong, thought Khushi as she made a decision to talk to Aman about it. She was friendly with Lavanya but not that close to discuss personal matters ... but she was close to Aman and can discuss this matter as she had done it previously as well.
After the initial welcoming speech, the function was started and awards were given the to brand of the year in almost every category like Medical, Finance, Hospitality, Automation, Education, NGOs etc. After some time the category came for Fashion and it was without doubt AR won the award for Brand of The Year.
Arnav stood up amidst the applause from the the audience and gesture Aman to stand up as well. Aman looked at Akash, waiting for him to stand up but he remained seated and was smiling, he gestures with his head for Aman to go ahead. Aman was highly surprise as to why Arnav and Akash both asking him to go.
"Aman", Arnav called him sternly and Aman stood up and they both went over to the stage and receive the award.
"It's the second time that AR has won this award", said Arnav as he move over to dice, allocated for the winners to give little speeches, "It's because of the hard work of everyone at AR, be the management, or organisers or the designers. I thank every team of AR for working hard and diligently and I am sure we will continue to do so".
As the audience applause Arnav and Aman went down the stage and move towards their table.
"Congrats Arnavji", said Khushi as soon as Arnav sit down beside her.
"Thanks", said Arnav as he placed the award on the table and took her hand. Mamaji, Mamiji, Lavanya and Akash also congratulate Arnav and each other for the victory.
After some time the categories got over and then head of the Annual Business Award came on the stage to present the award for Business Man and Female of the year. First he announces the female winner who came and took her award and then the moment came for which Khushi was waiting since long.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, the Business Man of the year award goes to .... Arnav Singh Raizada", the head announce.
Khushi exclaimed loudly and Arnav shakes his head looking at Khushi's beaming face. Khushi leans in and kiss near his lips. Arnav was surprised at her gesture but didn't do anything as he knew many eyes will be on him. He stood up and went to the stage.
The head shake hands with Arnav and then give him the award as audience applauses. Arnav said something to the head who looked at him for a second or two and then nod his head. Arnav went over to the dice and adjusted the mike.
"Someone said to me third time is a charm", said Arnav as he took a small breath in, "Thank you Annual Business Award and the Jury for giving me this award. And I would like to take a few minutes as I want to say something ... so bare with me guys".
Khushi was thinking what Arnav will be saying. Akash, Aman, Lavany, Mamaji and Mamiji were also thinking what Arnav wants to say as he usually never does this ... the last two times he won the award he just thanked the jury and went down the stage.
"I guess you all are familiar with a popular phrase that behind every successful man is a woman. Well in my case its a man behind my success. Don't worry, its nothing of that sort ... I am very happily married to my wife", Arnav chuckled as many laughed understanding his meaning.
"I remember very clearly when I thought to start my own fashion brand, no one wanted to give a chance to a young boy, who didn't had any influential background. I was running all around Dehli and Mumbai to get a financer or a client and that man was with me on every step. He was with me in every struggle, crossing the hardships, getting our first client. He was right beside me handling the management while I was designing the sketches ... every sleepless night I spend that time ... he was there right beside me. AR's first fashion show was possible only because of him. I didn't know how I will manage it as I had to do the designing ... but he did all that himself, without any prior experience. Not many know this detail but right after the first show we suffered the huge blow as we lost all our profit to a fraud person... (there were murmurs going around the hall) I nearly lost hope then but that man encouraged me that ASR you can do it, I am with you and we started again ... going through all those hardships and struggles again ... and no one know this but we didn't had any money to conduct a fashion show, the designers that were working that time left us and we were on the edge of losing our only two investors. We had to have another fashion show to make a profit but we didn't had the money to buy the fabrics or ornaments to make the clothes and that man sold his house and bike and gave me the money to put it in the show. We were successful again ... but only because of that man", Arnav was saying without stopping and at this point Aman knew ... knew he was talking about him ... because that incident was only known to Arnav and Aman.
"If he hadn't given me the money that time, then I wouldn't have been standing here receiving this award. I would have stopped the struggle and my dream to build my business, my brand. But only because of that man's support I never stopped. He was there in my lowest low, when I was struggling with my own demons, when my own friends left me ... even when my family doubted me ... but never that man. He never doubted me, never questioned my decisions, never asked me reasons. Whatever decisions I had took in regards with AR, he was always the first one to agree ... he had never argued with me over AR, its working and decisions. That man is not only an integral part of AR ... but he is the AR, because AR DESIGNZ is nothing without him ... (Khushi looked towards Aman, she knew who Arnav is talking about. Aman eyes were moist and Khushi couldn't help but feel emotional herself. She knew it is not easy for Arnav to say all these things but she was also very astonish that he saying all these things tonight and she wanted to know the reason ... but she will have to wait for that) ... he is the only man who deserve this award and that man is my best friend, the only man on this planet whom I trust blindly, who is very important to me personally and who is nothing short of being my brother ... AMAN MATHUR ... this is for you man ... only you deserve this."
As Arnav stopped talking, there were loud claps around the hall. A tear escaped Aman's eyes as he quickly wiped if off, looking around at Khushi and others, who also have the familiar emotional expressions.
"And now I would like to introduce Aman to everyone here as a COO of AR DESIGNZ and new CEO of AR DESIGNZ first international branch", said Arnav shocking Aman and everyone around the table. There were loud murmurs and clapping around the hall.
"That's all guys, thank you for listening, don't worry it's the only time I am saying all this", said Arnav with a small smile and he went down the stage. Arnav himself was feeling emotional, but he had to do it, it was not easy but he was glad that he did it.
He went straight to Aman, who stood up seeing Arnav coming close. Arnav stopped in front of Aman and looked at his moist eyes.
"Arnav ...", Aman said his name ... and Arnav move ahead and embrace his best friend, his confidant, his brother in a tight hug ... among the audience. They can still hear the claps and loud murmurs going around.
"It will never be enough ... but thank you Aman for being with me, just being in my life my friend", said Arnav in low tone.
As they break the hug Aman tried so hard not to cry. Khushi went over to Arnav and held his hand. Arnav look over at Khushi, "You alright?", she asked and Arnav just nod his head. Khushi pull him towards chair and they all sat down as there were audiences and photographers among them. Khushi wanted to hug him and kiss him and comfort him but she cannot do it now.
Lavanya was feeling so emotional and was trying hard not to cry. She wanted to to go Aman and be with him ... but she cannot ... and it hurts her. And just then Aman turned and looked at her ... her breath hitched seeing his moist eyes and she fisted her hands not to react. Lavanya averted her eyes and looked over to the stage where The Annual Business Award's head was giving the closing speech.
--------- Late Night
"What are you doing here Aman?", said Lavanya without any emotion.
"Lavanya please I want to talk, I promise I won't take much time. Please just hear me out", said Aman as he stood at Lavanya's hotel room door.
Lavanya looks at him angrily, "Aman just leave... I am very tired and want to sleep". She didn't want to talk to him, she was still very much hurt. Aman hard tried many times to talk to her but she had avoided him.
Aman had enough of her ignorance, he pushed the door forcibly and went inside the room.
"Seriously Aman, what is wrong with you", said Lavanya angrily as she shut the door with a bang.
"What is wrong with me?", said Aman angrily as he move closer to her, "What is wrong with you? Why the hell are you ignoring me? Not picking up my calls and replying".
"And you know exactly why I am doing this then whats the point in asking me this", said Lavanya as she move past him but Aman grabs her wrist.
"The point is that I am not going to London", said Aman a bit loud.
"What?", said Lavanya, "If you are saying this just to make me talk then ...."
Aman cut her, "Not that dammit, I am serious Lavanya. I am not going to London. Believe me at first I wanted to but after what you said at the restaurant, I realized that I just cannot be without you", said Aman as he cups her face, "Lavanya I cannot be without you. I am sorry for hurting you but I didn't intend to ... I thought maybe I can do it ... but losing you is not an option"
"Then why you decided it in the first place?", said Lavanya as she removes his hand. "You didn't thought of me before deciding the first time?"
"I was doing that because of you", said Aman
"What? Because of me? I didn't say you to go there", said Lavanya not understanding what he meant.
"I mean ... I was doing that to earn more. So that I can give you everything you deserve", said Aman.
"What rubbish Aman ... Do you really think I would believe that? You never gave importance to money, never ever. All the time I have known you, you never think of earning more and more ... you always thought of family and friends. And I never asked you to earn more, I never asked you to give me luxurious life. Tell me Aman, did I ever mention to you that I want to be rich or want you to get rich or want to spend a luxurious life ... tell me haan?", said Lavanya in anger.
Aman didn't has the answer ... Lavanya was right ... she has never said that to him ever.
Lavanya grabs his shirt from the front, "Tell me the real reason Aman, right now or I swear I will never talk to you".
"I told you the reason Lavanya", said Aman as he places his hands above hers.
"Aman I am damn serious right now. What you told me is utter bullshit, I want to know the real reason or I am telling you I will not talk to you after this", said Lavanya ... her expression serious.
Aman looked at her moist eyes and angry expression; he knew that what Lavanya has said she will do it and like he said losing her is not an option.
Aman sighed, "Remember when your father came to Dehli for some work 2 months ago?"
Lavanya let go of his shirt, "Yeah ... and?".
Aman take her hands in his and told her how he went to meet her father to officially ask for her hand as he was thinking to propose to her and how her father had rejected him telling the reason that he is not worthy of his daughter Lavanya. He is just an employee at AR as Lavanya's father proudly told him about his salary being less than Lavanya and how he wanted someone like Arnav Singh Raizada to be Lavanya's husband. Her father told Aman that if he really wants to marry Lavanya then he should start a business and make it successful like Arnav had done with AR. That's why he wanted to go to London and start the branch on his own proving to Lavanya's father that he is worthy of his daughter.
"But then you decided to break up with me and also Arnav said some things which made me realize that you are most important to me so I decided not to go and ...", Aman was saying when Lavanya pulls her hand back and started hitting him
"You moron ... you duffer", said Lavanya as she hit him and Aman put his arms up to shield his face
"oww oww", said Aman, "Lavanya stop it", said he grabs her hands.
"How could you think like that... you idiot", said Lavanya as she tried to free my hand.
"Didn't you hear what ASR said tonight, he never thought of you un-worthy. I never thought of you un-worthy ... then how could you Aman. We all know how much important you are for AR ... what have you done for AR ... what ASR said tonight was all true you idiot", said Lavanya in anger, "Leave me ... I seriously want to punch you ... you moron".
"Lavanya please relax ...", said Aman as he tried to stop movements of her hand.
"Don't tell me to relax ... I can't believe it Aman ... you thought all that rubbish that you are not worthy of me just because my Dad said that you. He always says those things to men who approach me for marriage to intimidate them. He does not say it because he really mean it you idiot. And even if he did say it then how come you think like that about yourself. Didn't you know that these things does not matter to me ... what matter to me is what we both have, our love", said Lavanya as her eyes got moist.
"I know I am an idiot", said Aman as he cups her face, "Please forgive me... I am sorry ... I am really sorry", said Aman as he place kisses all over her face.
"I am not going anywhere, I cannot be without you. I love you so much", said Aman as hugs her.
Lavanya couldn't stop the tears, which flow down her cheeks, how could he think like that? And dad ... why did dad said all those things to him ... didn't she told her father that how much she loves Aman. She is going to have a talk with her dad.
"Lavanya", said Aman as he breaks the hug, "Forgive me please"
"Aman I love you but we seriously need to discuss few things", said Lavanya as she wipes her tears.
"I know baby, but please not tonight", said Aman as he pull her close and place his lips on her. Lavanya melted in his embrace ... feeling at home now ... the hurt which was there in her heart for so many days ... went away as she got lost in Aman.
----- Next Day – Monday Afternoon
Payal waved goodbye to her friend as she went out of her school gate. She move to the left towards the bus stand but halted after few steps, seeing Akash standing on the opposite side of the road leaning against his car, who at that moment stood straight and waved her to come to his side. Payal crossed the road carefully and came near him and said Hi.
"Hi", said Akash, "I want to talk to you if you have some time".
Payal nods her head; "yeah" she too wanted to talk to him. They got in the car and Akash drove towards the café, which had an open courtyard. Akash purposely move towards the corner table as he wanted some privacy not wanting to be cautious of people listening. They sit down and Akash asked if she wanted to eat something but Payal denied politely, Akash still ordered juice for them.
"Payal I want to know if its really was your own decision to yes for my proposal", said Akash coming straight to the point.
Payal smiled a little, she liked this trait of both brothers, they never beat around the bush, always come straight to the point, not wanting to waste time.
"Yes it was", said Payal. "I think I already told you this yesterday".
"Yes you did, but I am not satisfied", said Akash and sighed. They didn't get the chance to talk properly yesterday and he wanted to ask her questions so that he can set his mind as well.
"Look I know its not easy for you to say yes to a marriage. With your past and then that Siddarth coming again in your life, raising those painful moments again, its bound to make you skeptical. And I don't want you to come under any sort of pressure from both of our families. I know parents use emotional blackmail to make their kids agree to their wishes. My mom does", said Akash and payal smile a little. Yeah parents do that sometimes.
"And you have told me that its not easy for you trust someone, specially a guy. And I know you won't be able to think of someone in a love interest way soon. You don't mingle easily and I know it well as you took time to accept my friendship. But this is different now. If we go ahead with this proposal, it won't be just friendship. So I really want to know what you want. What are your thoughts and feelings about this?", said Akash in a serious tone, "And please you don't have to hide anything, be honest, be straight forward".
"Haven't I been honest with you before?", asked Payal, not liking his last sentence.
"You were. But this is different Payal. And you know it too. I don't want you to feel any kind of awkwardness to share your feelings with me, thinking that what I will think or what our families will think", said Akash as he leans a bit towards her, "Right now what you think or feel is important to me and I want to know".
Payal nods her head understanding his concerns, "No one pressurized me to say yes Akash. Khushi too asked me this and she somewhere thought too that I am saying yes because of Amma, because she had been worried for my marriage since long. But I said yes on my own. And yes you are right I don't trust easily, don't mingle easily specially with a guy, and to be honest Akash, I don't fully trust you too", said Payal and placed her hand on above Akash's who frowned at her last words.
"Please don't take it the wrong way. Its not because I think that you are not trustable or a good guy. From the past few months if i have come to know one thing for sure is that you are a nice guy. You love your family. You give respect to others, you don't demean women or think of them as inferior being. You are a hard worker. So the problem is with me. I just can't fully trust someone at this point that I can share my inner most feelings ...even Khushi, with whom I share almost everything. What I have gone through in the past has made me gone into a shell where I have build walls around to protect myself from hurt that comes with being close to someone on personal level. I kind of lost faith on love and marriage", said Payal
"I know Payal", said Akash placing his other hand on above hers, "That's why I was shocked when you said yes. I thought you would deny straight forward. And that's why I wanted to talk to you to know the reason behind it".
Payal pulled her hand back and Akash too leaned back a bit. "I too wanted to talk to you about few things but let me clear this thing first that no one pressurized me to say yes ... and yes I am nervous about this whole marriage thing, not because of you but because of me, because of what happened with me on past. But I cannot duel on it my whole life. I have to get married in some point in my life in future ... And" payal stopped as the waiter came with their juice and asked if they want to order food. Akash told him that they will order after sometime and don't want to be disturbed; waiter went from their after placing the menus on table.
"Please continue Payal", said Akash.
Payal took a deep breath, "Um I was saying that ... that", she fidgets with her fingers, "To be honest, somewhere in my heart I still think of love ... um ... to love someone or to be loved by someone. Especially after witnessing Khushi and Arnavji's love, the way they understand each other and care of each other, the way they support each other ... I really admire them".
"yeah their love is unique ... do you know they can sense each other presence?", said Akash with smile.
"What?", said Payal being surprised, "Sense each other as in?", she asked being curious.
"Like when they are not together and one of them get close, the other sense them that they are here", said Akash and seeing confuse expression on Payal, told her the incident of the Mehndi Function where Arnav had sensed that Khushi entered the farm house. And then narrate the office incident when Arnav sensed Khushi was in problem.
"Really?", said Payal astonishingly, "wow ... that's really ... unique".
"Yeah, thats what I said previously no?", said Akash.
"But not everyone get that kind of love, no", said Payal with a wishful expression.
"Don't say that ... You never know what future holds for you", said Akash being serious.
"But I know it won't be soon on my end ... but I really wish for it", said Payal honestly, "Akash I just need time to get adjust with this marriage thing. It's better to get married to someone you know instead of a complete stranger, someone you respect, someone you like and can think of ...", Payal was saying when Akash cut her, "So you like me?", with a small smile.
Payal looked away feeling shy but after 3-4 seconds she looked back at Akash, "yeah I do ... but not in that way ... you know ...".
Akash nods his head understanding her point. "You are a good friend Akash. And I like this about you. And I don't know what future holds for me. Would I be able to move forward with someone or not ... would I be able to love again ... but ... but ...", Payal stammered not knowing how to convey her feelings.
"But you want to try", said Akash and held her hand. Payal was surprised at that ... yes ... yes she wants to try.
She have seen Arnav and Khushi together, she have observed them, their un said gestures, their looks, their love ... how they seems to attune to each other, how madly they love each other. How Aranv is possessive of Khushi, how he have done things for her, which he never did before. She might not know everything about Arnav's past or pains but what khushi and Anjali had told her, what she had heard from others or noticed herself, Arnav did not have it easy. He had struggled a lot and he had changed from his previous self in many ways ... all because of Khushi, all for khushi. He even went to Luckhnow, the very city he hated the most. Akash himself told her that. And still Arnav went there, for Khushi. Because he loves her so much, her love has changed him and she had wondered ... wondered what is like to have someone love you that madly. And somewhere in her heart she longed to be loved by someone.
"Yes I want to ... but I need time", said Payal, "That's why I wanted to talk to you that I don't want to marry soon" .
"Payal ...", Akash wanted to say but Payal cut him, "Akash please, let me say first" and squeeze his hand and Akash nodded.
"What I am trying to say is that now we both have said yes, our families will try get us both married soon. But I don't want that way. I want to have some time to get to know you better, for you to know me better. I don't want to get married and have any kind of awkwardness between us. Or you to regret marrying me because I am not able to give you what you deserve from your wife", said Payal
"I will not regret it", said Akash quickly.
"Akash you are saying this now but what if I am not able to give you what you deserve as my husband, the love, the care, what if I feel awkwardness coming close to you or to feel emotions for you. You will feel bad then I know. And it will get hurtful for both of us being stuck in that kind of marriage. That's why I want to have some time, some months or may be year, so that we can get to know each other better, and if we don't, if we find out we are not compatible with each other, we can then part ways. It would be easy to do so without being bound in a marriage", said Payal, hoping he understands her.
Akash didn't like her last words but he somewhere can understand her, he nods his head, "That's fair enough". Payal sighed with relief.
"We can get engaged, and have marriage planned after few months or a year. That way we you can have your time to get to know me better", said Akash with a smile.
"Meaning? Only me? You don't need time to know me better?", asked Payal surprised.
Akash shakes his head, "No, I know you will be a good wife. You are kind and respectful, you are humble and culture and no matter how tough you show yourself to others, I know you are a softy at heart", Akash smiled, "But it doesn't mean that we should not take your feelings into account. You have every right to take decisions about your life and I am glad that you have shared your feelings with me".
Payal didn't know what to say to this, "How he can be that sure about me?", she thought.
"By the way my family is already agreed that our marriage will not be soon as you need time and also Khushi just got married 2 months ago and Shashi uncle too wanted to have our marriage at a later time", said Akash.
"It will be good, that way we can have the finance to do the functions", said Payal lost in thoughts and immediately regretted what she said
"About that ... I know you took loan for Khushi's wedding", said Akash and held up his hand stopping Payal from saying anything, "I know Shashi uncle is highly self-respected in terms of taking financial help from us. He would never agree and I know neither would you. So I just want to say this, if you face any kind of trouble be it financial or personal, only then, please do let me know. I want to help you Payal, not because I am financially capable more than you, but only because I care for you... ok. It's a request".
Payal nodded, not knowing what to respond to that.
---------- Meanwhile @ AR Mumbai Branch
"I cannot accept this ASR", said Aman after coming out of the initial shock.
"And why is that", said Arnav looking seriously at Aman, sitting in front of him.
"Because its not right ... this is not right", said Aman as he closes the file and placed it on the table.
"Do elaborate Aman how is this not right", said Arnav.
"ASR, you cannot just give me Anjali Di's shares", said Aman shaking his head a little, "Its not mine. They belong to Di ... and if not her then they belong to Akash ... not me".
Arnav had called Aman to the AR Mumbai branch office because he wanted to discuss some work and also wanted to let him know that now he owns 10% shares of AR. Aman too wanted to talk to Arnav about his decision of going to London branch. After talking to Lavanya, he knew that he cannot be without her and after putting everything out front, he was happy that now he and Lavanya had sort out everything so he wanted to remain in Dehli, where Lavanya is. He was thinking to finally propose to her and he really wanted to get married to her and to start a new life.
So he came to office to let Arnav know that he does not want to go to London. He will apologise to Arnav and make him understand that his heart lies in Dehli where Lavanya and his close ones are. But he got the shock when Arnav passed him the file, mentioning that Anjali's 10% shares has been transferred over to him. The document had signatures of both Anjali's and Arnav's and he just needs to sign it to make it legalized.
"Tell me Aman, when I started AR, who was with me at that time? When I didn't had any financer, sponsor nor a place to call an office?", said Arnav as he sit straight in his chair, "Do tell me when in the initials days when we were running through whole of Dehli and Mumbai to get the financier or clients, who was with me then? And when we got our first client, who was with me to do the management work while I designed the sketches? And when we did our first fashion show, who stood beside me to deal with every obstacle? And not to forget when we suffer the first major loss who was with me to encourage me to not loose hope and move ahead? And yes Aman, do tell me who was with me when I was on my lowest low and was going through the dark phase of my life, who stood beside me? Who trusted me? Who never questioned me? Who always supported me without asking anything in return? Do tell me Aman".
Aman was shocked listening to this, he knew the answer very well ... it was him.
"It was not Di and it was certainly not Akash ... it was you who stood by me in every lowest low and highest high", said Arnav as he stood up and move around the table standing close to Aman.
"ASR", Aman too stood up, "But ..."
Arnav cut him, "No buts Aman. You deserve this. You are not getting this because of some favour or other. If you remember, when AR was settled well after the initial two years I wanted you to be my equal partner in business but you denied that time because you thought that you didn't know the technicalities or won't be able to handle it. But we all know that you out shined everyone. Even Akash says that the way you handle things even he cannot do it sometimes. You started AR with me Aman ... you ... not Di, not Akash ... not Mamaji ... and not any of the board members. They came in later ... but you were with me since the start. And then we all got busy with AR, making it no. 1 Fashion Brand. You were always the integral part in every deal, in every fashion show and in every success. It was understood and a known fact that you were second in command after me. It was not just official", said Arnav as he put his finger on the file, "This is making it official ... so that no body ... and I mean it Aman ... no body can point it out that you are some employee or not good enough to marry her daughter".
"What", said Aman being astonished, "You talked to Lavanya's father?".
"Yes, did you really think I wouldn't?", said Arnav, "I don't say it Aman but you are very important to me and I do care for you A LOT".
Aman looked at the file and then at Arnav.
"And no ... you are not getting these shares just because I wanted to show Lavanya's father that you are good enough. This is your right Aman. AR belongs to you as much as it belong to me", said Arnav, "I knew something was going on with you and the way you were avoiding Lavanya and then when you said that you wanted to head London Branch ... I knew that only an emotional reason can make you do that ... because in some way or other you are just like me ... hard headed. Only a loved one can change your decisions. And I had a hunch that it was about Lavanya. I just told her father that what a gem of a person you are ... I didn't went into the monetary details neither I threatened him. I just told him that the reason for which he is denying you for marrying her daughter is all rubbish. I told him your importance in regards with AR and in my life. I meant it when I said it yesterday Aman, you are not only my friend or business acquaintance ... you are like a brother to me and I will do anything to make sure that you happy in your life".
"Arnav", said Aman ... his name ... which he rarely use, "I don't know what to say", his eyes were moist. He never thought Arnav would say all these things. He knew that Arnav cares for him, he knew that they were friends ... he knew that he is important to AR ... and he had always felt himself in-debt to Arnav for saving his life all those years ago ... he never imagined that he is that much important to Arnav as much as he was to him.
"Just sign the god damn life Aman", said Arnav sternly.
"Um does Akash know about it?", said Aman
Arnav just couldn't help and smacked on side of his head.
"ow what?", said Aman highly surprised at his gesture.
"Seriously I just gave a mile long speech and still you are asking me this", said Arnav.
"yeah so? What if he doesn't like it or any of the board members", said Aman rubbing his head.
"Akash knows. He doesn't have any problem, infact he said that it was long overdue", said Arnav as he picks the file and open it, "I thought you won't like getting Di's share thats why I talked to her about buying 10% of her shares and that I will pay the required amount but Di denied straight forward. She said just transfer the shares to you directly. Because she was also thinking to back out from the board as she solely want to focus on her NGO and opening another one by renovating Sheesh Mehal. I also knew you will feel guilty of robbing off Akash of his so called right, according to you not by him, so Di transferred 3% over to Akash and 2% to me. Although me, Akash and Di thinks that's not needed but still we know you. And don't worry about the board member. I am majority here and they know better not to question me."
"Now just sign this before I smack you again", said Arnav as he opened the page where Aman's signs was needed and hand him the file.
Aman sign the papers.
Arnav was really happy. Akash was right, it was long overdue. He should have done it long ago.
"ASR I wanted to talk to you about London Branch ... I think I will stick to my previous decision of not heading it. I am sorry for causing any trouble ... but I want to stay back", said Aman as he hand over the file to Arnav.
"Nah ... you are going to London Aman", said Arnav as he went to his chair.
"But ASR, I was going there to prove to Lanvay's father that I am capable enough of running a business and I wanted to show him that I am worthy of Lavanya. But we both have sorted this out. It doesn't matter what her father thinks ... what matter is what we think and want", said Aman
"You should have think of it earlier Aman", said Arnav as he wear his pick his coat from the chair, "It's your punishment of even thinking that you are not worthy. It shouldn't have even crossed your mind. But now you have thought it ... you are going to London and make that branch up and running in 2 months." Arnav went towards the door, "Pack your bags you are going this coming Saturday", with that Arnav went out leaving a shocked and worried Aman.
Now what he will say to Lavanya, thought Aman worriedly.
------ After some time
"Jiji, why are you late?", said Khushi as she opens the door and Payal came inside.
"I went to lunch with a friend", said Payal and look at Khushi, "What happened?".
"Baba is talking to Dilip Chachu, Amma told me that Dadi was not happy with Akash's proposal for you", said Khushi as they both move inside, "So Baba talked to Dilip Chachu to talk to Dadi ... I don't understand why is she making a fuss".
"Leave it Khushi you know how she is", said Payal as she put her bag on the dining table, "I don't have any problem with Akash's proposal, and neither does Amma and Baba".
"Yeah I know that Jiji, but then why aren't we selecting a date for your engagement", said Khushi as she went to the back garden.
"I don't know Khushi. Baba wants Dadi to be agree on this proposal, he won't feel good if we proceed ahead with it without her being involved.", said Payal as she followed Khushi.
Khushi huffed, as she move near Arush.
"Mama ... eh flowee", said Arush as he extended a small pink flower towards Khushi who crouch down near him.
"Yes, Its Flower Arush", said Khushi with a smile, "Its pink ... say pink"
"piihhnk", said Arush in his baby language.
"Hey my handsome boy", said Payal as she picks Arush in her arms and give a kissie on his cheek.
"Alush handshome", said Arush
"Yes Arush is so handsome", said Payal
Shashi put the phone down and look at Garima, "What? Tell me na?", she said impatiently.
"Well Maji finally agreed for the proposal", said Shashi with a sigh.
"Hey Devi Maiya... thanks", said Garima as she folded her hands and looked up towards sky.
"But ..Garima", said Shashi and look over towards Payal and Khushi who were also listening to him
"But what?", asked Garima
"Ma ji said that she wanted Akash's family to come to Luckhnow for the Shagun rasam and also the engagement will be held in our home there", said Shashi.
"What Luckhnow?", exclaimed Khushi worriedly as she look over to Payal.
Now who will make Arnav agree to go to Luckhnow? Previously it was the matter of Khushi and his own marriage thats why he went there. But now, its for Akash and Payal, will he go there or not? If he didn't then neither can Khushi go ... now what they will do? Both Khushi and Payal thought the same thing looking at each other worriedly
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Next update will be late, as this coming weekend is my brother's wedding so i will be very busy with my work and other millions things.
But don't worry i am not going anywhere, I will complete this story :)
Yaaaaay finally you updated the new update, loved loved the update Arnavs speach made me emosh
Awesome update.
Arnav's speech was emotional and Aman's efforts got identified. Aman is truly the best friend for Arnav who stood with him in every aspect of his life.
Thanks for the update.
It was worth the wait.
Was waiting for the update as you mentioned in PM and was happy to see the new update.
Amazing Update
Khushi was so proud of Arnav hearing everyone praising him for his achievements. Arnav talking about Aman who has been with him in all his lows and highs was emotional. It was true Aman never questions Arnav's decision that much faith Aman has in Arnav and the same goes for Arnav to trusts Aman and can rely on him without he wording it out to Aman who understands his unsaid words. Wanted to know did Arnav meet Lavanya's father is that why Arnav opened up about Aman and praised him in front of everyone to know what Aman is actually worth than they think of him just as an AR employee. Loved Khushi's concern for Arnav knowing it is not easy for him to open up easily and that too in front of everyone. Aman became overwhelmed and emotional hearing Arnav's words. Though Aman denied accepting the shares of AR, glad he did finally because as Akash said it is overlong due which he deserves.
Finally, Aman came to his senses and decided no matter what he can't stay away from Lavanya and it is they both have the right to decide whether are they worth for each other and no one else. Though Lavanya gave him a tough time glad to see after their talks she gave him and also warned him not to do such a thing in the future. Poor Aman, while he solved his differences with Lavanya, Arnav decided he has to leave for London the next day which put him in dilemma and wondering what he will say to Lavanya fearing she will get mad again seeing him go. Hope Arnav has something cooking up like sending Lavanya along with Aman on the pretext of work so that they both can be together.
Loved the conversation between Akash and Payal. Though initially even Akash was not sure about getting married to Payal because he just likes her as a friend and doesn't love her and wasn't sure how their relationship works, after his talks with Payal he is sure that they can make their relationship work but it is not easy for Payal after all that she had to go thru with her previous broken relationship who started to build all the hopes on that. After Payal opened up what exactly she is feeling with the marriage talks going on between her and Akash and also about her insecurity because of the previous one she was happy that Akash understood her turmoil and gave her all the space she wanted before getting committed to each other.
Why Dadi couldn't accept Khushi? With her arrogance and stubbornness, she is making everyone's life harder. She really needs to learn her lesson that too from ASR only then she will learn to respect everyone around her or Wondering is she thinking that Akash's family will never come to Lucknow as she wanted and bring that as a reason for rejecting Raizada's alliance and get Payal married into a family she wanted. After Arnav heard the conversation between Shashi and Garima and what Dadi thinks about him and Khushi he decided that he will make sure that Akash and Payal are married so thinking that Arnav will agree to go to Lucknow and this time he has Khushi with him to overcome his past.
Congratulations on your Brother's wedding. Have fun and enjoy it.
Will wait for the update.
Thanks
Welcome back. So happy to see you have updated this story. Kushi was happy and thrilled to see Arnav get the best businessman of the year award.
Arnav in his speech and attributed all his success to Aman who stood by him like a rock all over the years. Aman was highly overwhelmed to hear Arnav praising him and he was moved to tears when Arnav appointed him as the CEO of AR also gave him shares of AR which Aman reluctantly accepted.
Aman on the other hand patched up with La and pacified her and sorted out all their differences. Waiting to see La’s reaction when Aman tells her that he has to join the London office.
Aakash went to meet Payal and they had a heart to hear talk regarding their marriage. Aakash and payal were hesitant and had doubts on whether their relation would work but agreed to give space to each other and they would work towards their marriage.
Finally kushi is worried about Arnav’s reaction after hearing dadi’s emotional blackmail that the grooms parents should visit lucknow to ask for Payal’s hand and the engagement should be held in Lucknow.
Waiting for the next chapter.
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