Understanding Khushi (Chapter 51)

Chapter 51

Day 5 after operation

Past five days had not been easy for Khushi and definitely any good for Arnav except the fact that Khushi was recovering and will soon be fine. In the last five days Arnav had not left the hospital for anything. He had been besides her all time, whether she slept, cooed in pain, chattered or ate his ears, he was with her like an un-separable force. The family too gave them their full support after all family is meant to be our support system. And Arnav’s family was rock solid.

Post operation specially after day 2, Khushi had been in immense pain. The doctors told it was normal due to the after effects of surgery and will take some weeks to go away. Her movements were restricted, her dosage of pain killers were reduced gradually, leaving her aware of the pain and what irritated her the most was that she had to make the natures calls in the bed itself. It irritated her and the cathedrae irritated her. And she felt too embarrassed as Arnav was constantly around her.

Observing her irritation, Arnav consoled her.

Arnav:  I know it is irritating you jaan. But it is going to be removed in a day and two. You are weak to move out of bed. And you don’t need to be embarrassed in front of me. It is not a big deal. It is natural.

It kind of relived her, but she could not wait for it to be removed. Another thing which diverted her mind was the family time at the evening each day when the entire family came to meet her. It was a gala time where all bonded. 

7days after operation

Today Khushi was estatic, she had moved on her feet to the bathroom and her cathedrae had been removed. Arnav had helped her bathe and her surgery cut had been redressed after bath. She felt so happy. Though keeping her foot down after seven days had been painful, her body had protested and in response she had grabbed onto Arnav’s hand harder, but in few steps as the blood flowed in her lower half the pain reduced and she felt much better.

Later she felt so scandalised when Arnav told the nurse that he will help her bathe. But after a while she felt better, it was better to be nude before him than any random lesser known nurse as after all he was ‘her husband’ and as if on cue he had reminded her “I have already seen all of it sweet heart”

She had blushed and he had kissed her.   

Arnav had not left her side and Khushi never complained.

But today Khushi had told him strictly to go home at night while Payal or Poorvi can give her company tonight, but Arnav did not buzz. Khushi wanted him to be with di too. She knew Anjali di was still in pain after her painful separation from Shyam and badly needed her brothers time, love and attention. Khushi felt guilty. After a lot of persuasion he agreed to go and spend an evening with her but he told her that he will be back before night. Giving up Khushi agreed.

At 12.30

Arnav had called Akash and Payal to come and give company to Khushi, while he planned something for di, Khushi had made him realise that he needs to give di also some time. He was grateful for Khushi for her thoughtfulness.

Khushi had told him ‘Relations needed a balance and each held its importance’ and he knew what he needed to do.

Leaving Khushi in company of Payal and Akash only after a good long sessions of ‘do’s and don’t’s’. After he left Akash released a breathe of relief and Payal slapped him on the chest lightly for being melodramatic.

Payal: Akash how can you be so dramatic?

Akash:Did you see bhai? As if he was leaving Khushiji in hands of monkeys. Do you realise he does not trust us one bit with his wife?

Payal: Akash……….

Khushi: jiji and jijaji, can you two stop fighting. Anyways jijaji, Arnavji trusts you a lot that is why he left me under your company and he would not have left me even for second if he had even 1% doubt.

Akash: thanks Khushiji. Otherwise I would not have known this side of Bhai ever and how much he trust me and depends on me.

Payal: What have you done Khushi, I should not say this,but he has gone all crazy like you.

Khushi: jiji…………don’t forget that he is your brother in law that too angry types.

All laughed out loud.

All had their lunch and Arnav had called Payal to check on Khushi and Payal had put the phone on speaker when in definite terms he had asked her not give into Khushi’s any antics and make her sleep for atleast an hour in the afternoon.

Arnav had surprised Anjali at home with a Chocolate mousie which he had got for her on the drive to home. She was so happy seeing him and more with the mousie. Arnav had informed the family that today nobody shall be visiting Khushi as she already has Akash and Payal with her and he is sure she is going to be all tired chatting by them only so they should all take a break.

Now came Anjali’s turn.

Arnav: di, get ready. We will go out today. I did not get to pamper your from a long time. Let’s eat out at some Italian restaurant and then we go some shopping. What say?

Anjali was shocked, so was everyone. She came towards Arnav and checked his forehead.

Anjali: Are you alright?

Mamiji: Arnav babua and shopping? Miracle

Nani: Anajali do not be so melodramatic, before also whenever you came to London with Arnav, he has always taken you on shopping. And chote, it is a good idea. She too needs a change.

Anjali: I was just teasing him nani, you spoilt all the fun. Ok I will go and change.

Mamaji: hello hi bye bye, brother sister secret. Arnav babua takes Anjali bitia shopping in London everytime they came. And look here nobody takes me shopping.

NK went behind his angry Manorama Masi promising of taking her to shopping.

Nani: Chote, you did a very right thing. It is always good to pamper pregnant ladies and especially Anjali after what she has been through. It will make her really happy. God Bless You.

Arnav: We will be back by evening.

Nani left the hall, to have a word with sulking Manorama.

Poorvi: Jijaji is it fine if I and Poorav go and meet jiji today. Actaully I got a call letter from a company in delhi today, I want to tell jiji. She will be thrilled.

Arnav thought for a while and smirked with a small smile.

Arnav: Ok, you can, but don’t worry about you jiji, I had already assured her of your job in delhi.

Poorvi was confused, she waited for him to explain.

Poorav: I don’t get it…….i mean how?

Arnav pulled Poorvi by shoulders and motioned her to sit.

They all sat down.

Arnav: Good that it has come uo now, I want to clear this for once at all. See, it is not because I don’t trust your capabilities or anything. When Khushi had told me about Poorav job in delhi and you were still trying, I had told her that if you are going to work somewhere in delhi, then it is going to be AR only. Don’t get me wrong, It is not because I want to do some favour or you would not get a job. As you have already seen you already have a job in delhi, so you have proved your calibre but the thing is…………………………….

Arnav was feeling hard to explain

Poorav and Poorvi faces had confusion written all over them.

Poorvi: but the thing is…………………..what?

Arnav: But the thing is the world out there is brutal. I have seen it they are all opportunist waiting to eat you up. And I am more worried about you because you are Khushi’s sister. So kind, pure, far away from dirt of human minds.

The protectiveness in me is not allowing me to let you work outside, when I can give you a safe but completely explorative and progressive job opportunity in my own AR.  Trust me all relations in AR are going to be completely professional. You can ask Akash. I did not allow him also to work outside, but he is happy now. Trust me it is never a good option to go searching for things outside when they are available at your home. I and Khushi had to struggle and get exploited because we had no options and we never wanted you and our dear ones to undergo that.

It is just that having you under trusted guidance will leave us at peace, espacilly Khushi will be assured if you will be under AR.

Poorvi had tears in her eyes, she could read his concern. Initially she took it wrong but as he spoke further all her doubts and wrongs vanished.

Poorvi: jijaji……I

Arnav: no…..no …..I am not forcing anything on you. Though I had told Khushi that I will make sure you will work only in AR but It is upto you to make the decision. I am just giving you the option, the rest is on you. You decide where and what you want to do? And trust me I am not going to influence or interfere.  

Poorvi looked at Poorav for some kind of conformation and the clarity in his eyes was sharp and his relaxed frame showed his acceptance towards jijaji’s idea. She kneeled down next to Arnav and held his hand.

Poorvi: I trust you. If we can trust you with jiji’s life how did you even think that I am going to misunderstand you.  You know all our lives we have craved to be guided and protected by our family and now you are that family then why would I even let this chance go. I will very gladly join AR and not only because what you said…………..

Arnav: Then what…?

Poorvi: It will be foolishness, if I leave your proposal. AR is such a big brand, people die to get there then why would I miss the chance. Secondly the when one of the richest business tycoon gives a piece of advice, it is fool who does not take it. And lastly because I know you are saying this because you must have seen something in life which I have not. And it is always a wise thing to learn from others experience and mistakes.

And who will go for other job when you have a job offer at AR. But I have a few conditions.

Arnav: Conditions…? Tell me…..

Poorvi: I will go through the entire process of job from the bottom, no jumps just because I am your SIL. I will start from the post from where my qualifiactions allow me.  And you are never going to scold me. I have read about you being all shouting kinds.

Arnav: excuse me…….and why is that. You are going to be my employee.

Poorvi : that is because I miss use my SIL power there. Thodi cheating allowed hai and perhaps it is good for you too.

 

Arnav: Care to explain why?

Poorvi: Simple.

You shout on me………………and scold me.

I will come home………………..and definitely will not be able to stop from crying.

Jiji is going to see me crying…………………..I am going to complain about you.

Then you know, she will be angry with you……………………………..

So at last it is your loss. 

Arnav was so amused at her explanation that he could not control and burst out laughing where as Poorav indicated toward Poorvi that she is MAD.

When his laugh subsided, he extended his hand towards Poorvi and

Arnav: OK done. Congratulations! Welcome to AR Finance Department.

They shacked hands.

Arnav saw his di coming and soon they moved out, but before they could he heard Poorvi teasing Poorav about her Salary and Perks.

Anjali and Arnav had a wonderful lunch at the Italian place only after Arnav assured her that it Khushi’s idea of sending her home and he himself does not

want to compromise one relation for other. They both were important to him and finally she got really excited when he told her that today they will shop for Khushi and the new champ.

Arnav and Anjali had a gala time. They shopped for what not. The driver always had his hands full to stock in the car. Arnav specially purchased some comfortable dresses for Khushi, so that her surgery cut dressing could be done easily unlike in her suits.

Finally lastly he purchased a dozen and two of comfortable indian suits for Anjali and strictly told her that she would be more comfortable and sturdy in them during her pregnancy rather than the saree. And she somewhere agreed.

Anjali too purchased a few informal sweat shirts and t-shirts for him in bright colours and told him to surprise Khushi who always used to complain of his boring wardrobe but lately had stopped seeing him adorn informal clothes in the London trip.  

It was time for Arnav to reach hospital and Akash and Payal to go back home.

Khushi: Jijaji, I need a favour from you.

Akash: anything, tell me.

Khushi: Please send Arnavji’s laptop. He can start working now. I have seen him struggling on phone. The work should not suffer unnecessarily. He can easily sit and work while taking care of me.

Akash nodded happily at her request.

Payal warned her to not complain in the future.

Khushi: His business is an important part of him and I love that part of him too.

Soon Arnav came and Akash and Payal left after a brief talk.

Later  after dinner Khushi told what all she did and thanked him for Poorvi’s job and he told her that she can thank in better ways when she gets well.

Arnav: And you know I have more selfish reasons of keeping her. I want a handful of trusted people who can look after AR when I go on long vacations with my wife. So it is called forward planning.

Much later Arnav told her what all they shopped for.

  

Next day Arnav was surprised to see his laptop and Ipad in the hospital. He initially protested but after Khushi’s words he was thankful. He was now happily working and looking after Khushi too. The pile of pending work thanks to Khushi was now reducing smoothly and his London fashion show work also started to materialise.

Day 10

Khushi was surprised seeing her parents. And she was happier seeing babuji’s progress. He could speak with fumbles and walk with a rolling two stick.

Arnav had explained them all and had already seek forgiveness for keeping them in Dark. They had merrily forgiven him with lots of blessings.

They were so glad with Khushi’s recovery and had got to know of each detail from Buajii. Who could not stop praising Arnav and the entire family and thanked nandkishore atleast 1000 times in between.

After a few days they left back with buajii content that she was in right hands. Chapter 51

Day 5 after operation

Past five days had not been easy for Khushi and definitely any good for Arnav except the fact that Khushi was recovering and will soon be fine. In the last five days Arnav had not left the hospital for anything. He had been besides her all time, whether she slept, cooed in pain, chattered or ate his ears, he was with her like an un-separable force. The family too gave them their full support after all family is meant to be our support system. And Arnav’s family was rock solid.

Post operation specially after day 2, Khushi had been in immense pain. The doctors told it was normal due to the after effects of surgery and will take some weeks to go away. Her movements were restricted, her dosage of pain killers were reduced gradually, leaving her aware of the pain and what irritated her the most was that she had to make the natures calls in the bed itself. It irritated her and the cathedrae irritated her. And she felt too embarrassed as Arnav was constantly around her.

Observing her irritation, Arnav consoled her.

Arnav:  I know it is irritating you jaan. But it is going to be removed in a day and two. You are weak to move out of bed. And you don’t need to be embarrassed in front of me. It is not a big deal. It is natural.

It kind of relived her, but she could not wait for it to be removed. Another thing which diverted her mind was the family time at the evening each day when the entire family came to meet her. It was a gala time where all bonded. 

7days after operation

Today Khushi was estatic, she had moved on her feet to the bathroom and her cathedrae had been removed. Arnav had helped her bathe and her surgery cut had been redressed after bath. She felt so happy. Though keeping her foot down after seven days had been painful, her body had protested and in response she had grabbed onto Arnav’s hand harder, but in few steps as the blood flowed in her lower half the pain reduced and she felt much better.

Later she felt so scandalised when Arnav told the nurse that he will help her bathe. But after a while she felt better, it was better to be nude before him than any random lesser known nurse as after all he was ‘her husband’ and as if on cue he had reminded her “I have already seen all of it sweet heart”

She had blushed and he had kissed her.   

Arnav had not left her side and Khushi never complained.

But today Khushi had told him strictly to go home at night while Payal or Poorvi can give her company tonight, but Arnav did not buzz. Khushi wanted him to be with di too. She knew Anjali di was still in pain after her painful separation from Shyam and badly needed her brothers time, love and attention. Khushi felt guilty. After a lot of persuasion he agreed to go and spend an evening with her but he told her that he will be back before night. Giving up Khushi agreed.

At 12.30

Arnav had called Akash and Payal to come and give company to Khushi, while he planned something for di, Khushi had made him realise that he needs to give di also some time. He was grateful for Khushi for her thoughtfulness.

Khushi had told him ‘Relations needed a balance and each held its importance’ and he knew what he needed to do.

Leaving Khushi in company of Payal and Akash only after a good long sessions of ‘do’s and don’t’s’. After he left Akash released a breathe of relief and Payal slapped him on the chest lightly for being melodramatic.

Payal: Akash how can you be so dramatic?

Akash:Did you see bhai? As if he was leaving Khushiji in hands of monkeys. Do you realise he does not trust us one bit with his wife?

Payal: Akash……….

Khushi: jiji and jijaji, can you two stop fighting. Anyways jijaji, Arnavji trusts you a lot that is why he left me under your company and he would not have left me even for second if he had even 1% doubt.

Akash: thanks Khushiji. Otherwise I would not have known this side of Bhai ever and how much he trust me and depends on me.

Payal: What have you done Khushi, I should not say this,but he has gone all crazy like you.

Khushi: jiji…………don’t forget that he is your brother in law that too angry types.

All laughed out loud.

All had their lunch and Arnav had called Payal to check on Khushi and Payal had put the phone on speaker when in definite terms he had asked her not give into Khushi’s any antics and make her sleep for atleast an hour in the afternoon.

Arnav had surprised Anjali at home with a Chocolate mousie which he had got for her on the drive to home. She was so happy seeing him and more with the mousie. Arnav had informed the family that today nobody shall be visiting Khushi as she already has Akash and Payal with her and he is sure she is going to be all tired chatting by them only so they should all take a break.

Now came Anjali’s turn.

Arnav: di, get ready. We will go out today. I did not get to pamper your from a long time. Let’s eat out at some Italian restaurant and then we go some shopping. What say?

Anjali was shocked, so was everyone. She came towards Arnav and checked his forehead.

Anjali: Are you alright?

Mamiji: Arnav babua and shopping? Miracle

Nani: Anajali do not be so melodramatic, before also whenever you came to London with Arnav, he has always taken you on shopping. And chote, it is a good idea. She too needs a change.

Anjali: I was just teasing him nani, you spoilt all the fun. Ok I will go and change.

Mamaji: hello hi bye bye, brother sister secret. Arnav babua takes Anjali bitia shopping in London everytime they came. And look here nobody takes me shopping.

NK went behind his angry Manorama Masi promising of taking her to shopping.

Nani: Chote, you did a very right thing. It is always good to pamper pregnant ladies and especially Anjali after what she has been through. It will make her really happy. God Bless You.

Arnav: We will be back by evening.

Nani left the hall, to have a word with sulking Manorama.

Poorvi: Jijaji is it fine if I and Poorav go and meet jiji today. Actaully I got a call letter from a company in delhi today, I want to tell jiji. She will be thrilled.

Arnav thought for a while and smirked with a small smile.

Arnav: Ok, you can, but don’t worry about you jiji, I had already assured her of your job in delhi.

Poorvi was confused, she waited for him to explain.

Poorav: I don’t get it…….i mean how?

Arnav pulled Poorvi by shoulders and motioned her to sit.

They all sat down.

Arnav: Good that it has come uo now, I want to clear this for once at all. See, it is not because I don’t trust your capabilities or anything. When Khushi had told me about Poorav job in delhi and you were still trying, I had told her that if you are going to work somewhere in delhi, then it is going to be AR only. Don’t get me wrong, It is not because I want to do some favour or you would not get a job. As you have already seen you already have a job in delhi, so you have proved your calibre but the thing is…………………………….

Arnav was feeling hard to explain

Poorav and Poorvi faces had confusion written all over them.

Poorvi: but the thing is…………………..what?

Arnav: But the thing is the world out there is brutal. I have seen it they are all opportunist waiting to eat you up. And I am more worried about you because you are Khushi’s sister. So kind, pure, far away from dirt of human minds.

The protectiveness in me is not allowing me to let you work outside, when I can give you a safe but completely explorative and progressive job opportunity in my own AR.  Trust me all relations in AR are going to be completely professional. You can ask Akash. I did not allow him also to work outside, but he is happy now. Trust me it is never a good option to go searching for things outside when they are available at your home. I and Khushi had to struggle and get exploited because we had no options and we never wanted you and our dear ones to undergo that.

It is just that having you under trusted guidance will leave us at peace, espacilly Khushi will be assured if you will be under AR.

Poorvi had tears in her eyes, she could read his concern. Initially she took it wrong but as he spoke further all her doubts and wrongs vanished.

Poorvi: jijaji……I

Arnav: no…..no …..I am not forcing anything on you. Though I had told Khushi that I will make sure you will work only in AR but It is upto you to make the decision. I am just giving you the option, the rest is on you. You decide where and what you want to do? And trust me I am not going to influence or interfere.  

Poorvi looked at Poorav for some kind of conformation and the clarity in his eyes was sharp and his relaxed frame showed his acceptance towards jijaji’s idea. She kneeled down next to Arnav and held his hand.

Poorvi: I trust you. If we can trust you with jiji’s life how did you even think that I am going to misunderstand you.  You know all our lives we have craved to be guided and protected by our family and now you are that family then why would I even let this chance go. I will very gladly join AR and not only because what you said…………..

Arnav: Then what…?

Poorvi: It will be foolishness, if I leave your proposal. AR is such a big brand, people die to get there then why would I miss the chance. Secondly the when one of the richest business tycoon gives a piece of advice, it is fool who does not take it. And lastly because I know you are saying this because you must have seen something in life which I have not. And it is always a wise thing to learn from others experience and mistakes.

And who will go for other job when you have a job offer at AR. But I have a few conditions.

Arnav: Conditions…? Tell me…..

Poorvi: I will go through the entire process of job from the bottom, no jumps just because I am your SIL. I will start from the post from where my qualifiactions allow me.  And you are never going to scold me. I have read about you being all shouting kinds.

Arnav: excuse me…….and why is that. You are going to be my employee.

Poorvi : that is because I miss use my SIL power there. Thodi cheating allowed hai and perhaps it is good for you too.

 

Arnav: Care to explain why?

Poorvi: Simple.

You shout on me………………and scold me.

I will come home………………..and definitely will not be able to stop from crying.

Jiji is going to see me crying…………………..I am going to complain about you.

Then you know, she will be angry with you……………………………..

So at last it is your loss. 

Arnav was so amused at her explanation that he could not control and burst out laughing where as Poorav indicated toward Poorvi that she is MAD.

When his laugh subsided, he extended his hand towards Poorvi and

Arnav: OK done. Congratulations! Welcome to AR Finance Department.

They shacked hands.

Arnav saw his di coming and soon they moved out, but before they could he heard Poorvi teasing Poorav about her Salary and Perks.

Anjali and Arnav had a wonderful lunch at the Italian place only after Arnav assured her that it Khushi’s idea of sending her home and he himself does not

want to compromise one relation for other. They both were important to him and finally she got really excited when he told her that today they will shop for Khushi and the new champ.

Arnav and Anjali had a gala time. They shopped for what not. The driver always had his hands full to stock in the car. Arnav specially purchased some comfortable dresses for Khushi, so that her surgery cut dressing could be done easily unlike in her suits.

Finally lastly he purchased a dozen and two of comfortable indian suits for Anjali and strictly told her that she would be more comfortable and sturdy in them during her pregnancy rather than the saree. And she somewhere agreed.

Anjali too purchased a few informal sweat shirts and t-shirts for him in bright colours and told him to surprise Khushi who always used to complain of his boring wardrobe but lately had stopped seeing him adorn informal clothes in the London trip.  

It was time for Arnav to reach hospital and Akash and Payal to go back home.

Khushi: Jijaji, I need a favour from you.

Akash: anything, tell me.

Khushi: Please send Arnavji’s laptop. He can start working now. I have seen him struggling on phone. The work should not suffer unnecessarily. He can easily sit and work while taking care of me.

Akash nodded happily at her request.

Payal warned her to not complain in the future.

Khushi: His business is an important part of him and I love that part of him too.

Soon Arnav came and Akash and Payal left after a brief talk.

Later  after dinner Khushi told what all she did and thanked him for Poorvi’s job and he told her that she can thank in better ways when she gets well.

Arnav: And you know I have more selfish reasons of keeping her. I want a handful of trusted people who can look after AR when I go on long vacations with my wife. So it is called forward planning.

Much later Arnav told her what all they shopped for.

  

Next day Arnav was surprised to see his laptop and Ipad in the hospital. He initially protested but after Khushi’s words he was thankful. He was now happily working and looking after Khushi too. The pile of pending work thanks to Khushi was now reducing smoothly and his London fashion show work also started to materialise.

Day 10

Khushi was surprised seeing her parents. And she was happier seeing babuji’s progress. He could speak with fumbles and walk with a rolling two stick.

Arnav had explained them all and had already seek forgiveness for keeping them in Dark. They had merrily forgiven him with lots of blessings.

They were so glad with Khushi’s recovery and had got to know of each detail from Buajii. Who could not stop praising Arnav and the entire family and thanked nandkishore atleast 1000 times in between.

After a few days they left back with buajii content that she was in right hands.  

Understanding Khushi (Chapter 50)

Chapter 50

8am

Arnav was awake; he had taken bath and got ready. Had his breakfast and medicines and was pacing outside ICU. He had a word with Akash and di on phone and assured them.

Dr.Sifiana had visited twice from morning checking on Khushi.

Arnav: Doctor, how is she, when is she going to gain conscious?

Doctor: We expect her to gain conscious anytime now. Just keep patience all we be well. She is responding well.

10am

The entire family had arrived. The atmosphere was morose. Only Khushi’s waking up could difuse the thick fog of tension that had gathered over the family. Each face was tense. Some were constantly in prayers, praying hard.

Poorav was too restless. His continuous to and fro movements were evident.

Anjali too was irritated and panicking.Her pregnancy harmones too were also not helping. Poorvi was absolutely silent. Seeing both of them like that Arnav too was getting restless. He went towards di and pulled her closer and sat with her. Sitting together both calmed down.

12 pm

Khushi had still not gained conscious. The doctors too were a bit worried but it was not unusual in patients. Each patient responds differently.

Arnav was at peak of mental breakdown. He was hesterical. He was worried rather feared. He was silent but his eyes clearly showed his restlessness and vunerability. 

Anjali too had joined the praying brigade of nani and buajee along with mami.

Poorvi and Poorav were sitting silently holding hands gaining strength from the closeness.

NK and Akash were all trying to console Payal, who seemed to have gone all quite and the tears were not stopping.

Arnav silently walked out into the corrider and looked to the sky as if looking for his mother and thought “please mama, make her wake up. I am losing my calm.She is my life; I can not breathe without her. Please save your son. Please.”

After a few moments his feet on its own walked towards the small church in the compound. He bent there and said.

Arnav: I don’t know how to say this but please wake her up devi maiya. Please.

Soon Arnav was back outside the ICU.

1.20pm

The nurse informed the doctor about the small moments made by Khushi. She had squirmed and even hissed. Her fingers were into small movements.

Soon Doctor Dominic and Sifiana were examining her.

Outside the ICU all were eagerly waiting for the doctors to come out and as soon as they came out, all eyes were on them focussed and ears waiting.

Doctor: Khushi has shown some movements and her limbs are in movement. That is a good sign, she will gain conscious in probably half and hour and so.

As soon as she does that we can check her and then we will shift her to a normal ward. May be all of you can meet her in the evening.

Everyone was overjoyed. A relief spread across their faces.

Half an hour later, Khushi opened her eyes gradualy. Though her focus was groggy and while she was still coming in and out of conscious, the doctors checked her out and declared her the operation to be successful.

Doctor: Congratulations, Khushi has gained conscious.She is still groggy but all her senses are fine and she is responding. Arnav you can go and see her. The rest of the family can only meet her when she is shifted out of the ICU in the evening.

All saw Khushi from the ICU window and left for home, leaving Arnav and NK at the hospital.

Arnav was so happy, a smile adorned his face. He entered the ICU and saw Khushi, she has eyes closed. He approached towards and sat next to her and carefully pulled her hand into both his hands. As soon as his hand gripped Khushi’s palm, she opened her eyes and looked at him. They both stared at each other. Arnav not breaking the trance moved closer to her face and kissed her on forehead. She closed her eyes in relief and a tear escaped her eyes and Arnav wiped it immediately nodding a “NO” to her.

A while later Khushi gestured Arnav to come close, the tubes attached to her nose made her difficult to speak louder and her throat was also dry. Arnav lowered himself near to her.

Khushi: (almost in wisper) What did you think? I will leave you so easily. I am not leaving you. Get that clear in you head. And now tell me her name.

Arnav had a small smile adorning his face; he too leaned forward and whispered looking into her eyes.

Arnav: You think you are very smart. I just planted this silly thought into this brain of yours, so that you get jealous and don’t ever think of leaving me. I am a business man and know how to get my way.

Khushi’s mouth opened and closed like a fish.

Khushi: haw. You lied to me. Then why did you agree to get married then?

Who were you planning to get married to?

Arnav: you. Remember our pending Church wedding.

Khushi did not saying anything and soon her eyes drooped and she slept.Arnav was happy with the progress. He was content. A small talk with her had washed away all his tension. And all his fears had vanished. He knew and had full confidence that life with Khushi is going to be rollercoster and exciting and he will love it. And he was ready for it.

Next day

Late at around 5 in the evening, Khushi again gained conscious. She was better now. The anesthesia had not completely worned out.

No one from the family except Arnav had been allowed to see her. All were eager for her to be shifted into her room, so that they could have a glimpse of her.

At 6pm

Khushi was still sleeping when she was shifted back to her ward.The doctors informed that she was still under the affect of anesthesia which was normal and it takes 18 to 20 hours for it to wear off completely.

6.30

The entire Raizada brigade and buajee were waiting for her to open her eyes, then she finally opened them and as on cue everyone nearly cheered. Arnav was sitting on to her right and he was the first to whom she acknowleged. Nani was the first one to approach her.She caressed her forehead and she closed her eyes absorbing the warmth.

Nani: jeeti rahiye bitiya (god bless you my child). Now see you will recover soon.

Khushi wanted to reply but her throat was dry and hurting because of tubes.

Arnav: you don’t need to say anything. For once let others speak.

Buajee: (she also caressed her forehead) my titiliya( my butterfly) and removed her nazaar (indian tradition of removing evil eyes)

Payal just blinked at her and silently both the sisters exchanged smile.

Anjali: Take rest and recover soon because I guess there is one more laadgoverner coming to keep you on toes. You need to recover fast before that.

Khushi smiled the brightest and exchanged a glance with her laadgoverner.

NK: ok ok guys,Khushiji you take rest and please for god sake never pull this stunt again. Pata hai kitna saare logon ke assoon dhone padhe (how many peoples tears I had to wash)

Akash: NK bhai, pochne padhe(wipe tears not wash)

NK: ek hi baat hai. You were of no use. Good for nothing. You could not even console Payal bhabhi alone.

Akash: (Looked towards Arnav) Bhai…….

Arnav: Akash everyone is not a clown like him and besides I could not leave him with my business responsibilities, there i can only trust you. So let him enjoy his Bandar status (“monkey status”)

All laughed while NK frowned.

Soon all left for home leaving only Arnav at hospital as Arnav was adamant on staying with her.

8pm

Khushi was not allowed anything to eat; she was being injected with glucose.

But she insisted that Arnav ate before her eyes, not trusting him a bit with his food habbits. She called a nurse and told her in her still weak voice.

Arnav could not hear what she was telling but allowed her to continue but kept an eagle eye on her face;gauging each expression.

Khushi: Please can you bring his food order here itself. I don’t trust him with his habbit of escaping meals.

Nurse: (smiled at her request) yes.yes. Sure. I will ask the cafeteria to send it here.

Khushi: A mix veg salad with seswan sauce; white sauce pasta and two slices of garlic bread with cheesy dip.

Nurse: ok. I will order it.

The nurse moved out giving a smiling look towards Arnav.

Arnav came closer at sat in chair next to her and caressed her face.

Arnav: What did you tell her jaan? Why was she smiling?

Khushi: she was just wondering that……………………….

Arnav: what..?

Khushi: that I got such a careless her husband, who does not take care of his food even when his wife is so unwell.

Arnav: What the….. Khushi?

Who said that?

I did not miss a single meal. I ate. I did not even skip my medicine.

Khushi: Accha……..What did you eat last night tell me…….

Arnav: I ate a double brown bread vegetable sandwich and had coffee.

Khushi: I knew you would go with the minimal. Never mind today you are going to eat before my eyes.

Arnav: don’t worry Khushi, I will go and have dinner in cafeteria after you sleep. I promise. I don’t want you to look at me while you are not allowed to eat.

Khushi: No. You are going to eat in front of my eyes and I have already ordered your food and do you think I will feel hungry seeing you eat?

Arnav: No, yes. I mean……………………….

Khushi: Please Arnavji, I feel content seeing you eat, so just for my peace sit here and please eat.

Arnav had no option than to listen to her. He just peppered a few butterfly kisses on her mouth. Soon there was a knock on the door; the boy from cafeteria was there with the food order.     

Arnav rolled his head indicating him to keep the food and go. And before Khushi could say anything he said “I am going.”

Khushi just smiled.  

Arnav ate his dinner silently, he saw Khushi watching him with a smile on her face. By the time he had finished and pulled out his medicine and threw a glance towards Khushi to show her that he had his medicine, he found her to be asleep. He smiled.

He came and sat next to her, he caressed her hair lovingly and held her hand in his, and peppering small kisses every now and then.

9pm

The doctor and nurse came to check on Khushi. The doctor pronounced her current progress to be good and left. The nurse checked her drip and everything. And while she was cleaning the food plates she looked towards and said “ASR, you are a very lucky man indeed. You fight with her,but she loves you a lot.”

Arnav chuckled at her comment and said “I know, but the fact is we love these small fights. They keep up the spice in life. And I guess divert her pain and tension too. And I love her too much, she is my life.”

Understanding Khushi (Chapter 49)

Chapter 49

Morning 7.30

Arnav was awake and staring at Khushi from his bed, she was still in deep sleep. His trance was broken by the nurse who came to see Khushi and her vitals.

8.30am

Khushi was still fast asleep. Arnav had bath and had a talk with NK at home.

He had told Akash to take the family home first to get fresh, have rest and breakfast as it was going to be a long day.

He went out for a while, but came back soon.

Just as he entered, he was greeted by Dr.Sifiana who had been briefed by the nurse about Khushi’s state and was here to give Khushi an injection.

Khushi winced in her sleep and murmured “Arnav………………………..It is hurting” In no time Arnav was next to her and soothing her pain by stroking her forehead lovingly. She calmed.

Dr. Sifiana: Mr. Raizada (in her all too English accent) we will be taking her for operation at 1.00pm. I have looked into all the arrangements and everything is ready. And her state is also stable, and we will do our best.

But before that please come to my office at 12.00, you need to come and sign a few consent forms.

Arnav: Ok doctor. Any thing else that need to be done.

Dr.Sifiana: Be careful, that Khushi is not to be fed anything. Not even a drop of water before operation. And just pray and relax, all will be good. We will do our best.

9.30am

Khushi had started to wake up, she was bit cranky. Her throat was dry. Arnav approached her and kissed her lightly on her lips as if soothing her.

Arnav: morning jaan.

Khushi: I don’t want this day to come.

I don’t want to be operated, it is too scary.

I don’t want to lose you again, what if you become the old laadgoverner.

What if you don’t care for anymore.

Arnav: Please stop, mrs chatter box, how can someone speak so much.

Khushi: laadgoverner

Arnav: Exactly, don’t ask useless questions. Khushi don’t fear. You have nothing to lose; it is only well being you are going to gain. And leave this fear of unkown because I know exactly what is going to happen. YOU ARE COMING BACK TO ME ALL WELL. Now even your devi maiya is with me, you know I had a deal with her.

Khushi was amused at his antics.

Khushi: what deal did you crack with her, and how do you know she agreed.

And by the way when did you meet her?

Arnav: In the morning while you were sleeping, there is a mandir (temple) nearby, and made a deal with her. I briefed her about her loss.

Khushi: loss??

Arnav: I told her that, more than anyone else, it was she who is going to be at loss because she will lose the daily huge stock of those jalebies which you offer

on pretext of ones or others welfare.

Khushi: haw…….

Only you can make a deal with devi maiya too.

You always behave in that businessman manner no matter whom you are talking. Laad governer.Now tell me how do you know she accepted your deal.

Arnav pulled out something from his pocket and put in her hand.

Arnav:  oh, I don’t know, but you all believe on it. Apparently she showered me with these flowers and the panditjee was boasting about it as some kind of good omen. Khushi touched the flowers to her eyes and then to his eyes.

Khushi: yes it is. May be DM is impressed, the great ASR bowed before her.

Arnav: I don’t know whether I still believe her or not but I believe on anything you have trust on. And for you I can do anything, even bow before her, if she is the supreme power.

11.30

The entire family had arrived. Khushi was relived to see all of them. She was so at peace. The unkown fear has subsided and slid in some dark corner.

All behaved very soberly but the atmosphere was kept light.

Around 12.45

Dr. Donic, the anthesia specialist had administered the injection into Khushi, while she and Arnav were staring at each other, promising each other. Arnav kissed her before his eyes closed.

At sharp 12.00 Khushi was pulled into the Operation theatre.

The strength left Arnav and he was about to slag, but Akash pulled him up into a hug.

Akash: bhai, khushji is going to be fine. You can not break now, it is just going to end soon. She is coming back to us.

Arnav stood silently for hours. Poorvi was sitting holding NK and Payal’s hand.

NK was in charge on Naniji and buaji who were chanting mahamritunjay jaap (holy chant for well being of patient).

Anjali was tensed; her face was trained on Arnav, not leaving him once, but had no strength to go to him.

Poorav was on nerves too but he forcefully pulled away Anjali di to the cafeteria. He ordered a sandwitch and shake for her.Anjali refused to eat.

Poorav: I know di, it is difficult for you, but trust me, it is more difficult for me, but we can not lose it. You need to eat di, your health is tender. Jijaji ia already on nerves, if something happens to you, who will handle him. Think, if Khushi jiji would have been here, she would have forcefed you.So please eat for her. I don’t want her to get tensed when she wakes up and not finds you and champ in front of her because you got ill because of starving.

Anjali ate after that and soon Poorav was helping her back onto the chair outside the Operation Theatre gathering Arnav’s attention and in a flick of a second Arnav and Akash were there at her side.

Arnav: what happened di?

Are you alright?

Are you uncomfortable?

Akash: You must be tired?

Long sitting intervals are not good for you?

I will take you home, we can come back later.

Anajli put a finger on both brothers’ lips.

Anjali: I am absolutely fine.

Poorav just blackmailed me into stuffing me with sandwhich and shake.

I feel even more energetic now.

And I am not leaving till Khushi comes out.

And nothing is happening to me.

At around 6.00pm

Two doctors came out, one was Dr. Sifiana, and she seemed worried. She called Arnav into her cabin. Arnav told Akash to not let anyone panic. He followed the doctor.

Dr. Sifiana: Mr. Raizada, the operation went just fine, but there is still a slight danger. A small complication has arised; we need to treat Khushi for that. The specialist is coming in 5 minutes to assist us. You just need to sign one more consent form. And his fee too will be added. I think it is not a big issue, and we will try our best. You guys just pray.

Arnav felt tormented, pained. NK had just heard everything. He handled Arnav. He made him sign the consent form.

NK: nannav, the doctor told it is just a small complication. Do not worry Khushi ji is a fighter. If she is fine through the operation, she will pull through this too.

It is time to gather our strength and pray.

NK informed as well as calmed the family. They all sat and stood silently. All were praying. But with passing time their anxieties were increasing. The first to break was Poorvi. She was sobbing uncontrollably. Poorav held her close, but his eyes too teared up, joining her soon.

No body was having the strength to console other. NK was holding Anjali di tightly.

1 hr later

As time passed, Poorvi and Poorav were still crying. Arnav snapped out of his trance and went to them, pulling Poorvi out of a more stable Poorav’s arms he said wipping away her tears.

Arnav: Stop crying. I said just stop crying.

Khushi is fine, I can feel it, so just stop crying.

Crying is a bad omen, please don’t cry.

With that he hugged her hard. Poorvi had calmed a bit, infact everyone had calmed. After all his was the head of the family their protector and all trusted him. After a while he pulled exhausted Poorvi with him next to NK, who now sat between Anjali di and Poorvi.

Arnav: NK, you better handle them both. If they cry a single tear more. You are gone. You are a clown, prove it now.

NK was scared and did best what he could.

2 hours later

The team on doctors moved out of the operation theatre. Dr.Sifiana even before been hounded with questions answered.

Dr. Sifiana: Congratulations. The operation is successful. As of now Khushi is stable. We will keep her in ICU till she gains conscious. Though next 15 hours are critical but we are hoping for best seeing the success of the surgery. She should gain conscious by next 15 hours.

She saw a wind of relief spread across so many faces. She was exiting when nani stopped her.

Nani:  God bless you my child, my you get all you desire. I will pray to God to keep all pain and any misery far away from you and your family.

Though the doctor did not understand much, but she could catch the vibes. Soon NK translated for her.

She thanked Naniji, but stated that it was her duty.

She before leaving told Arnav “Mr. Raizada, you can see Khushi after we shift her to ICU, but only for few minutes. And only you

Arnav: I will be grateful doctor. Thank you. Thank you

After few minutes…….

Arnav saw Khushi, laying paled on the bed all cuddled with so many wires attached to her, but the relief was the heartbeat monitor showed a strong beat.

Later he assured the family and sent them all home. He did not have the mood to have dinner, but inorder to keep his diabetis in control; he ate a sandwhich and large cup of coffee before dozing off.