Chapter Sixteen

Dadi sat in her room patiently. She couldn't wait to see her heir, the one who would carry on the Raizada name.

It was around 10:30 when Arnav came in. She saw him holding the baby in his arms and she couldn't believe it.

"Is that... is that really...," Dadi said, tears pooling in her eyes.

Arnav nodded. "Yes."

Dadi smiled with joy, closing her eyes as tears came flowing down her cheeks.

"Let me see the little one's face," she said, opening her eyes.

Arnav went over to her and showed her the baby.

At the sight of the baby, Dadi's face dropped. She gasped and her eyes widened.

"But that's... that's...."

Arnav grinned devilishly. "Congratulation Dadi - you have a great-granddaughter, an heiress."

Dadi's eyes widened even more and she gasped. Suddenly, the machines around her that were connected to her, beeped like crazy. The doctor and nurses came rushing in and asked Arnav to leave the room. Arnav walked out and glanced through the small window on the door. He could see the doctors scurrying around Dadi.

Arnav turned and walked away. He made his way back to Khushi, not caring for a second of what would happen to his dadi. He knew that this wasn't what she had wanted. He remembered back to their conversation he had with her a few months back.

~

"Why do always speak of an heir," Arnav asked.

"Chote we have had this conversation-"

"No, I don't mean that because... nothing can be done to change what I did. I mean why do you always say you need an heir? Why not an heiress?"

Dadi looked at him wide eyed "Are you really asking this question?"

Arnav shrugged. "Why not?"

"Chote, an heir is the one that will continue our family line. Yes, I know that today's society doesn't care about that, but in our family, an heir continues the family line, not the heiress. Our family follows by old culture."

"Cudda fooled me," Arnav muttered.

But Dadi heard it anyways. "Chote, don't think that you're the only one who has impregnated a woman who is not your wife. Many have done that in this family in the past."

Arnav looked at her in shock.

Dadi nodded. "The last time this happened was with your great-great grandfather. But he had married her and all was well."

Arnav ignored what she said, not really finding this as the important factor. "What if Khushi were to give birth to an heiress?"

Dadi looked him straight in the eyes. "It wont be."

"How do you know?"

"It wont. There's a reason why I'm still alive and that is to see my great-grandson."

"What crap?!"

"I will see my great-grandson in your arms when Khushi has delivered, mark my words."

"And if its a girl," Arnav asked, cocking his eyebrow.

"It. Won't. Be."

Arnav smirked. "You're so arrogant.... Well, I hope that your hopes are shattered, and that I have a daughter instead."

"How dare you-"

"Oh I dare, I really do," Arnav sneered. "And when my daughter comes in my arms, I will cherish the expression on your face very much."

Arnav turned away and walked to the door.

"Do you want me dead," Dadi exclaimed. "Is that what you want?!"

Arnav paused at the door. "Perhaps," and then he left.

~

Arnav glanced down at his daughter and smiled at her. She was wide awake and quiet, gazing away at him. Arnav was beyond happy, completely ecstatic that he had a baby girl. In his eyes, she was the most beautiful daughter anyone could ask for!

Arnav entered the room Khushi had been shifted to. He saw Khushi talking to the nurse. The second they walked in, Khushi had looked at them and Arnav could tell that she wanted to hold her baby again. He went on over to her side and handed their daughter over to her. Khushi gazed away at her, still unable to believe that she was really her daughter.

Arnav sat down beside Khushi. "How are you feeling?"

Khushi looked at him. "I'm okay," she smiled softly.

"Where's Akash and Payal," he asked, glancing around for the two.

"They went out to get a bite."

Arnav nodded in acknowledgement.

"She's beautiful," Khushi beamed, running the back of her finger along her daughter's cheek.

"She is," Arnav smiled.

Their daughter looked up at Khushi, her eyes wide as she gazed away at her mama.

"She's so calm and attentive," Khushi said. "It's like she understands our words already."

The baby blinked and then she sneezed.

Khushi giggled. "Bless you baby."

Arnav got up and moved beside Khushi so that he could look at their daughter. Her hand was peeking out from under the baby blanket and he held his finger out. Immediately, she took hold of her father's finger. Arnav gasped and then he smiled, tears pooling in his eyes.

"Thank you Khushi," he said softly. "I couldn't be any happier!"

Khushi looked up at him. "No, thank you Arnav. Or I never would've had such a beautiful daughter like her," she smiled.

Arnav smiled and they looked back at their daughter, who was only looking at the two of them.

"She truly is beautiful," Khushi said, and she kissed her daughter's forehead.

"She is. She's the world's second most beautiful person."

Khushi scrunched her eyebrows. "Whose the first?"

"You."

Khushi looked up at him. She found him gazing at her and she was going to say something, when Payal and Akash came in.

"Ooh! Let me see my niece," Payal cooed, walking over to them.

Khushi handed Payal her daughter, and both Payal and Akash cooed at the baby. She just looked at them as they cooed away.

"What are you naming her," Akash asked.

"Well it took a long time to make up that decision," Aranv said, remembering back to all the constant arguments over the baby's name.

"What did you guys decide on," Payal asked, handing the baby back to Khushi.

"Yes, what did you decide on," Dr. Thomas said, who came walking into the room.

"Her name," Khushi began, "is Aditi."

"Aditi Kumari Raizada," Arnav smiled.

Dr. Thomas went to the baby's crib and picked up a notepad with documents on there. She wrote down the baby's name and she filled out the baby's information.

"I'll just make sure these records are put in," she smiled, and she left.

"That's such a cute name," Payal gushed.

Khushi beamed and looked at her daughter.

"We should get going," Akash said, looking at the clock. "It's past visiting hours and they'll kick us out soon."

"Already," Payal pouted.

Akash shrugged.

"Okay." Payal turned to Khushi. "I'll come back tomorrow."

Khushi nodded.

Payal and Akash said their goodbyes to the trio and then they left. Arnav sat beside Khushi, holding onto Aditi.

"Are you going to be comfortable sleeping there," Khushi asked.

"I'll be fine."

"Are you sure? It looks uncomfortable."

"I'm fine," Arnav smiled softly.

"I doubt that," Dr. Thomas said as she walked in.

"I can manage," he smiled up at her.

"I'm sure you can," she smiled. "But the bed next to Khushi is available, and there are a lot of empty rooms in the hospital, so you can sleep there."

"You sure?"

"Positive. Besides, you booked this delivery room - it's all yours."

Khushi gaped. "You booked this room?"

Arnav shrugged. "I didn't want any problems," he said innocently.

"Unbelievable," Khushi said.

Dr. Thomas smiled. "Well, it's time for your daughter to join the others.

Both Arnav and Khushi slightly pouted before Arnav placed Aditi back in her crib. The nurse came in and she took Aditi away.

"Goodnight you two," Dr. Thomas said as she left.

"Goodnight," both replied.

Arnav got in the bed next to Khushi once he shut the lights off. He laid down but he couldn't fall asleep. He looked at Khushi and saw that she was out like a light.

Arnav looked up at the ceiling. Why can't I sleep?

Chapter Fifteen - Maha Update

Thursday, May 26th

10:11 AM

Khushi woke up and let out a yawn. She opened her eyes slowly, expecting to see Arnav with her, but to her disappointment, he wasn't there. Khushi slowly got out of bed and washed up and got ready for the day. She was in the middle of brushing her teeth, when she noticed a small stain on her t-shirt, above her nipple. And that's when last night came rushing back into her head.

Khushi dropped the tooth brush in the sink, toothpaste drooping out of her mouth.

I can't believe that happened, she exclaimed in her head. What the hell is wrong- damn you pregnancy hormones!

In her third trimester, Khushi had realized one definite change in her and that was how horny she was. She had privately asked the doctor about and she had told her that it was completely normal. But still, it had Khushi feeling somewhat weird.

But now, after what happened last night, she felt awkward.

Why did I tell him to touch me? Who is he to me? He's just the father of my child. He... he doesn't love me.... But then again why did he...? Was it in the heat of the moment? But we were already kissing? So wait, why'd he kiss me? Was that because we were in the heat of the moment?

Khushi felt the baby move slightly and she looked down.

Sorry, mama's thought are bothering you huh? My bad, baby. It's just that your father has me so confused!

Khushi washed up and and looked at her reflection.

I should apologize. I should do that.

Khushi walked out of her room and headed down to breakfast. When she entered, she saw no one there, except for a few maids.

"Where's Arnav?"

"At school ma'am," one replied.

Dammit! "Right, of course."

Khushi sat down and the maid served her, what Khushi liked to call, The Khushi Breakfast Special, or KBS for short. The KBS is a special breakfast made only for Khushi, making sure that it contained the valuable nutrients and vitamins she needed and none of that greasy fattening stuff Khushi loved oh so much. It was fine, Khushi did agree with what was on the plate, but she hated only one thing - no hash brown.

Khushi looked at her plate and made a face. "It would only seem appetizing if there were hash browns."

The maids looked at each other and the other one spoke. "I'm sorry ma'am, but-"

"Oh please oh please oh please! Just this once? I promise, Arnav will never know. Not a word will be out," and she pretended to zip her lips.

"But-"

"Please?! Don't make mood swings activate and throw plates like last time," she threatened.

The maids' eyes widened. At around Khushi's fifth month, she had really wanted Häagen-Dazs Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough ice cream, and because Arnav didn't want her to get sick, since it was winter, he had refused and Khushi had nearly torn the mansion apart. After that day Arnav learned that a man should never come in between a woman and her crave for ice cream - because she will throw plates and try to murder your pride.

Yup, Khushi tried to attack him there.

The poor, poor boy... my sympathies to him.

"Please," Khushi pouted, snapping the maids out of that memory.

They glanced at each other and in fear of having plates being thrown at them, they dashed to the kitchen and Khushi hopped in her seat with joy.

"Yay!!"

Khushi patted her bump and she felt her baby move.

"Hmm, so someone else wants hash browns as well."

The baby moved some more and Khushi giggled. She giggled some more when she felt a light contraction. Khushi yelped out just as the maids came back into the room, and they went running over to her side.

"Are you okay," they asked. "Should we call Sir and-"

"No, no, I'm okay, nothing to worry Arnav about. Just get me some water please?"

One of the maids got her a glass of water and handed it to her. Khushi drank it and placed the glass down on the table.

"I'm fine you two, don't worry about it."

The maids felt uneasy, but they simply nodded. In a matter of time, Khushi's hash browns arrived and Khushi was ecstatic. Taking a bite, she moaned in pleasure as the flavor erupted in her mouth (don't think naughty now ;P).

"It tastes amazing!!!"

Khushi happily ate her breakfast and the maids sighed in relief, the cook who had his head poking through the door also sighing in relief.

After all, who wants a plate thrown at them right?

12:04 PM

Khushi had headed up to the library, once she had figured out how to go about her day, or noon, we should say. She decided that she would read first today, feeling the urge to read This Man:

“The sex is just sex. I can't get close enough to you. The control is because I'm frightened to death that something will happen to you...that you'll be taken away from me. I've waited too long for you, Ava. I'll do anything to keep you safe. I've lived a life with little control or care. Believe me, I need you..please...please don't leave me.” 

Khushi grabbed a tissue and blew her nose. She used another tissue to wipe away her tears.

"That is one of the most sweetest things I've ever read," she cried.

Khushi sniffled and grabbed another tissue, putting the book down to blow her nose again. She tossed the tissue aside and looked down at her bump. "You better say sweet stuff like that to your wife, mister. But if you're a girl, you better make sure your husband says stuff like that missy."

The sound of chuckling echoed in the room and Khushi looked up to see Arnav. "Telling our kid about what their future spouse should be like already?"

"You're early."

"Actually, it's 1:15."

Khushi scrunched her eyebrows and looked up at the clock to see that he was right. "Well time flew by."

She slowly stood up and Arnav went over to her.

"Sit," Arnav simply said.

Khushi shook her head. "I'm fine, I'm tired of sitting."

"Khushi, the maids told me of your little yell earlier during breakfast, so I suggest that you sit down."

Khushi gaped at him. "They told you?"

Arnav nodded.

"Damn! Is that all they told you?"

Arnav tilted his head. "Should I know something else?"

Khushi shook her head. "Nope!"

Arnav squinted his eyes. "Khushi," he said in a warning tone.

"Oh hush it mister," Khushi said, as she sat back down and held her book in her hands.

Arnav placed his hands on the armrests and came in close. "What are you hiding from me?"

Khushi held the book up to block his face. "Nothing."

Arnav took the book out of her hand and placed it down. "Tell me."

"Arnav if I lose my page-"

"You won't, it's faced down."

Khushi rolled her eyes and looked away.

"My palm is getting twitchy."

A small smirk crept onto Khushi's face. "Is that so?"

Arnav just looked at her, straight in the eyes.

Khushi did the same. "I had hash browns for breakfast."

Arnav's eyes widened. "You what?"

Khushi nodded. "I had hash browns and we both enjoyed it," she smiled.

"Khushi do you have any idea how much oil that was cooked in and-"

"Oh calm down! I haven't had hash browns in ages!"

"Khushi-"

"Hush," Khushi said, placing her fingers on his lips. "Not another word."

Arnav made a face.

"Up-pup-pup! Not even a look."

Arnav grabbed her hand and moved it away. "Khushi that oil is not good for our baby."

"Oh well I'd beg to differ because there was a lot of movement going on. Guess the baby was partying since it finally got hash browns."

"Khushi-"

"Yes," she said sweetly, batting her eyelashes.

Arnav huffed. "If you go against my words again then I-"

"You'll what?"

Arnav squinted his eyes. "Don't tempt me."

Khushi sat up. "And if I do?"

"Don't push my buttons-"

"And if I were to," she said, moving her face closer.

"Khushi," he warned in a somewhat raspy voice.

"Yes Arnav," Khushi replied, her voice very light.

Their faces were only a few millimeters away and before anyone could say anything, Khushi grabbed Arnav by the collar and kissed him. Arnav was shocked, but his thoughts soon went out the door. Khushi continued to kiss him and stood up. She slowly pushed him back until he was leaning against the wall. Her hands went travelling up to his hair and she tugged his face in closer to hers. Arnav placed his hands on her bump and steadied her, then turned them around and leaned her against the wall so that she'd be supported. Arnav continued to kiss her back, the only thing going through his head was the thought of having her.

"Touch me Arnav," Khushi murmured on his lips. "Please touch me."

"But Khushi-"

"Arnav, my hormones are crazy and I'm extremely horny, so please, just touch me!!!"

Khushi pulled him back in and kissed him fiercely. Her hands moved to the buttons of his shirt and she pulled it open, the buttons flying off. She needed to feel him or else she would go mental! Her hands followed the along the ridges of Arnav's sculpted chest, loving the feel of it.

Khushi let go and murmured on his lips. "Touch me,"she breathed.

After what had happened last night, Arnav was at a standstill. He didn't know where they stood and he didn't know if this was right.

"Touch me Arnav," she pleaded, but Arnav remained still.

Khushi took hold of his hands and moved it along her body. "Don't you like my body Arnav?"

Arnav gulped and didn't know what to say.

"Don't you like it Arnav? Don't you love the soft touch of my glowing skin?" She moved his hands under her shirt. "Don't you love the feeling of my tits, Arnav," she asked, moving his hands above them. "I know you do, Arnav. You did that night at the party and you did last night."

Arnav shut his eyes at the feeling of her plump breasts. He truly did love the feeling of them. His thoughts went running back to the night of that party, visions racing through his head.

"And I know your most favorite part of all," Khushi said seductively.

She moved his hands down, teasingly slowly along her body, over her bump, till his hands were down there.

"Khushi-"

"You love it here the most, don't you Arnav?"

Arnav licked at his dry lips and avoided eye contact.

Khushi lifted her hand up and cupped his face. "You do love it here," she confirmed. "You love it here the most. You love how tight I am and how wet I get. You love it how I move to your touch," she said, tilting her waist.

Arnav groaned, feeling the lace of her panties. "Khushi-"

"Why don't let your fingers slip in Arnav? Let them go to their most favorite thing to touch. Let it go to where you love it the most. Let them touch what you love the most."

Arnav looked up at her. "That's not what I love the most."

Khushi looked straight back at him. "Then what do you love the most?"

Arnav just looked at her for a moment and Khushi did the same. No one said anything and silence was louder than ever.

"Well," Khushi pushed on.

Arnav moved on hand up into her hair and grasped it. "You," and he kissed her fiercely.

Khushi moaned into his mouth and felt his fingers creeping under the lace and pleasuring her clit.

"Arnav,"she gasped, but Arnav covered her lips immediately.

The two were lost in passion, the world around them no longer existent. All that mattered was them, their pleasure, and their baby. Nothing more could matter in their little world.

Out of nowhere, Arnav's phone chimed off. The two jumped apart by the sudden noise and looked to see where it was coming from. Arnav reached into his pocket and saw that it was a text, but chose to ignore it. He put the phone away and looked back up at Khushi, who was already looking at him. She looked at him in worry, her lips parted.

"Khushi-"

"What did we just do," Khushi whispered.

Arnav looked down and at their situation. "Khushi-"

Khushi moved away from Arnav and covered her face.

"Khushi?"

Arnav followed behind Khushi and reached out for her shoulder, but she moved away once more.

"I can't believe I... these stupid pregnancy hormones! I've been controlling myself for so long, but now I break! Twice!!"

Arnav looked down.

"I can't believe I...."

Tears came streaming down Khushi's cheeks and she cried. Arnav couldn't stand her crying, it hurting his heart for some reason he didn't understand, and he went over to her.

"Khushi, please don't cry," he said, turning her to face him.

Khushi turned, but she wouldn't look at him.

"Khushi look at me," he said, cupping her face and trying to have her look at her. "Khushi please-"

"I can't look at you."

Arnav felt his heart cave in. "Why?"

"Because of what I said to you. Because of what I made you do!"

"No, Khushi don't-"

Suddenly Khushi gasped.

Arnav's eyes widened. "Khushi? Khushi, are you okay? Is-?"

"My water just broke," she nearly whispered.

"What?!"

Khushi looked down and Arnav looked down as well, to see Khushi's legs wet as well as their shoes and the floor.

Khushi looked up at Arnav in fear. "Arnav-"

"We're having our baby," Arnav breathed.

*~*

"Arnav!!"

Khushi gripped onto the sofa, holding onto her bump. Arnav had gone running to get ready and get everything they would need, which was prepared in a big bag. When Arnav came back down, Khushi's gaze dropped down to the bag.

"What the hell have you put in that bag," Khushi asked.

"Whatever we might need. Now how are you feeling? Aren't you in pain? Contractions? And why aren't you screaming in pain?"

Khushi chuckled. "Arnav, not everyone has excruciating pain that they scream the roof off."

Arnav tilted his head in confusion. "Really?"

"Yes really."

"Well... then how are you feeling?"

"Okay... trying to stay calm."

Arnav nodded. "You think you're ready?"

Khushi breathed in and out. "Yeah.... Now lets get going."

Arnav nodded and held Khushi's hand and led her out of the house. He got her on the car, placing towels beneath her. He placed the bag in the back and came around and got in the driver's seat.

"Ready-?"

Khushi eyed him, squinting at him, looking at him like he was stupid. Not saying another word, Arnav zipped down the streets and headed towards the hospital. Once they arrived, nurses spotted them and came rushing to her side. They brought in a wheelchair and took her down the halls to the delivery room. Arnav held onto her hand the entire time, telling the nurse the information they asked for, while Khushi clenched onto his. They were brought into a room and they had Khushi get up and switch into a hospital gown, then get in bed.

Dr. Thomas came in. "Khushi how are you feeling?"

"Okay. I feel my contractions coming in closer together slightly."

"That's good. Arnav told the nurse that your water broke about an hour ago?"

"Yes."

"Okay. We're just going to wait for your contractions to get closer, and then we can deliver the baby."

"You mean we have to wait longer," Arnav asked.

"About 7 more hours."

Arnav just looked confused.

Dr. Thomas chuckled. "Don't worry about it Arnav, everything will be fine."

Taking the doctors word, he nodded.

After that, the hours passed on. Khushi took a nap and Arnav had called Ammijan and Payal to let them know the news. Ammijan said she would see them in morning and prayed for the best. Payal had gotten excited and she had called Akash, and they rushed on over to the hospital. They came in about half an hour later, Payal holding balloons, each saying Congratulations!

"Hey, how is she," Payal asked Arnav when he met them in the waiting room.

"She's taking a nap."

"That's good. And how are you?"

"Not as nervous I had expected."

"Well that's good," Akash said, joining them.

Arnav chuckled lightly and did their bro shake. He took them into Khushi's room and saw Khushi had awaken.

"Pays," Khushi said softly. "You're here."

Payal went over to Khushi's side, as well as Akash.

"Hi Akash."

"Hi," Akash smiled.

"How are you feeling," Payal asked.

"I'm hooked up to a whole bunch of machines and have needle up my back. I'd say wonderful," Khushi laughed slightly.

Payal chuckled along and held her hand. "You're gonna be just fine."

Khushi smiled.

The nurse came in now and then and checked up on Khushi. Arnav, Payal, and Akash chilled on the side, letting Khushi rest some more. The hours passed on and everyone was waiting patiently for the baby to arrive.

"Dude, did you tell your Dadi," Akash asked.

Arnav's eyes widened. "I totally forgot. With everything going on, I totally forgot to tell her."

"You should go," Payal said. "She'd be so excited."

Arnav nodded and glanced at Khushi. She was still asleep and Payal placed her hand on Arnav's arm.

"Don't worry, we're right here and call you if anything."

"Thanks," and Arnav stood up and headed out to go over to his Dadi.

Going up a few floors, Arnav went to his grandmother's room. Surprisingly, she was awake, but it was because she had to take her medication.

"Arnav, what are you doing here at this hour," she asked.

"Khushi's in labor," he simply said.

Dadi's eyes lit up like a you child's on Christmas morning. "Really?"

Arnav nodded.

She gasped, covering her mouth. "Oh the Lord is grateful, giving me a chance to see my heir."

Arnav pursed his lips.

"Well go! Go to her side and make sure the baby arrives healthy. And do come to me with the baby once it's cleaned and freshened up?"

Arnav nodded. "Sure," and he left.

Arnav headed back on up to Khushi's room and saw her awake, drinking some water. He went over to her and sat beside her in a chair.

"How are you feeling," he asked, holding her hands.

"Nervous, to be quite honest. And scared."

"Why," he asked softly.

Khushi didn't say anything for a moment. "I'm scared something will go wrong."

"Hush, don't say that. Everything will be just fine. Even the doctor has said that."

"I know, but-"

"Don't worry Khushi. Things will be just fine and you and the baby will be okay."

Khushi smiled up at him and Arnav placed a kiss on her forehead, Khushi shutting her eyes to his embrace.

A couple more hours went on by and at 10:14, things were ready to go down. The doctor and nurse came rushing in and Arnav had Akash grab hold of the camcorder he had brought along, and Akash stayed in a distance.

"She's at 10 centimeters," the nurse said.

Dr. Thomas nodded then looked at Khushi, sitting before her. "Are you ready Khushi?"

Khushi pursed her lips and nodded.

"I want you to hug your knees okay? The nurses will also help."

Khushi nodded and bent forward, hugging her knees. The nurses held her legs, but Payal offered to help, so she grabbed hold of Khushi's left leg.

"Okay Khushi, I need you to push. Take a deep breath and push."

Khushi did as the doctor said and pushed. Arnav reached out and let her grab hold of his hand and she pushed again.

"You're doing great Khushi," Arnav soothed. "Keep it up."

Khushi pushed again, pursing her lips.

"I see the head," Dr. Thomas informed. "Come on Khushi, push again."

Khushi did as she had said and the head emerged. She pushed once more and the baby was half out.

"The baby is half out," Dr. Thomas said. "Would you like to grab it?"

Khushi nodded and reached forward and held her baby under it's arms. With one last push, the baby came out and Khushi placed her baby on top of her, the baby letting out a loud cry. Khushi shut her eyes, feeling worn out and exhausted. Arnav held Khushi's hand tightly and soothed her, watching the nurse clean their baby. Payal was filled with tears of joy and Akash was proud of Arnav and Khushi.

"Arnav, we need to cut the cord," Dr. Thomas said.

Arnav grabbed hold of the scissors and cut the cord, and the nurse completely covered the baby.

Akash turned the camera to face him. "And we've got ourselves a baby," he announced with joy.

Chapter Fourteen

Tuesday, May 24th

As the days went on and Khushi was nearing the end of her pregnancy, her level of anxiety was going up. As for Arnav, well, lets just say he's ready for anything! While Khushi has been relaxing and calming her nerves, steadying her breath and all, Arnav had been creating drills, practicing for the arrival of their baby. Seriously, the boy had gone crazy and Khushi didn't know if she should laugh or call him crazy. Arnav had everything set - from clothes and stuff ready in a bag for Khushi to the exact amount of time it took him to drive to the hospital. 

I would say that she should call him crazy.

Arnav was practicing that evening, calculating how fast he could run to the car and get ready to drive off to the hospital. He was in the middle of his drill when Khushi saw him from upstairs, him stretching and preparing to run. Arnav bent to runner's position and was about to take off when Khushi called out.

"Arnav?"

Arnav looked up and saw Khushi leaning against the railing, her face filled with amusement.

"Khushi, what are you doing up? You should be resting," he exclaimed, going up the stairs.

"I'm tired of resting," she pouted.

Arnav made a face. "Back to bed."

"No!"

"Khushi," he warned.

"I'm tired of sitting in bed all day," she whined, throwing her hands up in the air. She placed it over her bump and huffed. "Your papa is annoying."

Arnav bent down before her bump. "Hey, don't give my kid the wrong impression of me." He ran his hands on her bump. "Don't listen to your mommy."

Khushi placed her hands over on her hips. "Hush it."

Arnav chuckled and looked at her bump. "Come quick baby - daddy's waiting for ya."

Khushi placed her hands over Arnav's. "Mommy's waiting for you too," she smiled.

Both smiled at her bump, eager for their baby to arrive.

Wednesday, May 25th

Khushi sighed as she looked at her scrapbook. It was almost finished, and Khushi couldn't wait to start a second one. She put it away in her closet and just as she sat back down in bed, Arnav came in.

"Hey, you busy," Arnav asked.

"No, why?"

"There's someone here to see you," Arnav smiled softly.

He looked at the door, and in came Payal. Khushi was ready to burst out in excitement, but she caught the look on Arnav's face saying don't you dare. It was ridiculous, but it was true. Payal sat down beside Khushi and Arnav left the two ladies alone.

"So what brings you here," Khushi asked. "This is your first time here."

Payal nodded as she glanced around the room. "I couldn't help it. I don't know why but I kept having this feeling today and I just had to see you."

"Aww."

"This place has somewhat of a medieval touch, doesn't it?"

"Yeah, the dark colors with the velvet red... it is what it is. But they're not beings of the darkness, if you're worrying about that."

"Oh yeah, because I'm concerned to know whether or not Raziada's actually a vampire or not."

"Well then you'd probably see fang marks on my neck right?"

"True. Unless you wanna hide the truth by saying he's a vampire when he's actually a werewolf."

The two looked at each other for a moment and then burst into laughter. Khushi had missed this because she hadn't been going to school. It upset her because it was an important year - the year when colleges would be looking at her grades. But Arnav was at her side, as well as Payal, and they didn't let her fall back, keeping her along with school every single day and bringing her assignments so that she could keep her scores up.

"How's Junior doing," Payal asked once she stopped laughing.

Khushi smiled and caressed her bump. "I'd say asleep."

Payal smiled. She had given the baby it's nickname, Junior, because she was annoyed by calling the baby it like it didn't have a gender yet.

"Are you excited," Payal asked.

"Nervous actually."

Payal held her best friend's arm. "It's understandable. But don't worry - you've got another week or so."

Khushi shook her head. "I don't know what it is, but I don't think it's happening later but rather sooner."

Payal scrunched her eyebrows. "Why?"

"I don't know, it's just a feeling. Plus I'd say the little guy wants to get out, since it won't stop kicking."

"Junior keeps kicking hmm? Hope Junior's not practicing for soccer already."

Khushi chuckled. "Oh I hope not - wait till you're out," she laughed.

There was a knock at the door, and Arnav came in with a tray in hand. He shut the door with his feet and went around to Khushi's other side, and set the tray down. Khushi looked at the tray and saw a bowl of chicken noodle soup and some bread.

"Arnav, you didn't have to," Khushi smiled softly.

"You said you were craving it earlier, so I had to cook prepare it."

Payal scrunched her eyebrows. "Of all things to crave, you craved chicken noodle soup."

Khushi shrugged. "What can I say - it's the hormones. Ya can't control them cravings!"

Payal nodded in acknowledgment and Khushi chuckled. Arnav turned his body towards Khushi and lifted the spoon up from the bowl, blew at the hot soup and held it in front of Khushi. Khushi happily took it and smiled.

"Is it too hot," Arnav asked.

Khushi shook her head. "Nope, its fine."

Payal watched as Arnav continued to feed her, somewhat surprised.

Khushi caught the look on her face. "He likes to feed me," she clarified. "He's afraid that something might happen in the middle of eating."

"I'm not afraid Khushi," Arnav stressed. "I just don't want you dropping another glass of warm milk when the baby abruptly kicks you."

"What," Payal said confusedly.

"Sometime during her 6th month, she was in the kitchen and had gotten warm milk, when the baby kicked out of nowhere, and she dropped the glass and hurt her toe."

"Yeah Arnav, my toe," Khushi stressed.

"Toe or no toe, I don't care. You injured yourself, and that's the bottom line."

Khushi rolled her eyes. "Baby."

"Excuse me? Don't roll your eyes at me Khushi, or else-"

"Or else what?"

Arnav put the spoon down and picked up his hand. "My palm is getting twitchy."

The two looked at each other seriously and then burst into laughter. Payal was just completely confused and look at the two.

Khushi calmed down and shook her head. "Arnav is something else." She looked at Payal. "I taught him what real women want - a man like Christian."

Payal nodded in acknowledgement. "That makes sense then, considering the fact that he used that line."

Arnav smiled. "Only to keep this one happy. She wouldn't rest until she had me reading all 12 books," he said with a shake of his head.

"12 books? But its a trilogy," she said confusedly.

"She had me read more than just that one trilogy."

Payal looked at him wide eyed and then at Khushi. Khushi wagged her eyebrows mischievously at her and Payal looked back at Arnav.

"Oh, you poor unfortunate soul," she said softly, placing her hand over her heart, dramatically.

Arnav shrugged. "It's okay because now I'm up to the right standards of what women want. Right Khushi," he asked, holding the spoon out to her.

Khushi beamed and let Arnav feed her. "Absolutely."

The two went on with their conversation and Payal just watched, not minding the fact that they forgot that she was even here. She watched the two chat away, Arnav feeding her, and Khushi throwing bits of bread at him when he cracked wise jokes.

Once Khushi finished, Arnav got up, covered in breadcrumbs. Payal stood up as well and Khushi looked at her.

"You're leaving already," she asked.

"Have to Khushi, it's getting late."

"I could drop you off," Arnav said. "Just let me change-"

"No, no, it's okay Arnav."

"You sure? It's not a problem at all-"

"Yeah I'm fine. It's okay."

"Come on, I insist. It's late and your friend here will drive me insane saying I don't care about her best friend and will start exploding with tears."

"Hey," Khushi exclaimed. "I'm offended," she pouted.

Payal chuckled. "It's totally okay. ... plus I have a ride waiting for me."

That caught Khushi's attention. "Really? With who?"

"... Akash...."

Khushi nodded in acknowledgement. "Oh... okay."

"Yeah...."

"You sure you'll be okay?"

Payal nodded. "I'll be fine."

"Okay," Khushi smiled softly.

Bidding their farewells, Arnav led Payal out. Khushi leaned back in her bed and got lost in thought. Arnav came back soon, changed up and relieved of bread crumbs, and sat beside Khushi.

"Khushi? You okay?"

Khushi looked at him. "I'm worried for Pays," she said softly.

Arnav caressed her cheek. "She'll be okay," he smiled softly.

"I hope so."

Arnav gave her a reassuring smile and then stood up. He shut the curtains and tucked Khushi into bed. He was about to leave, when Khushi reached out and grabbed his hand. Arnav looked at their hands and then at her with his eyebrows scrunched.

"Stay with me," she asked. "Please?"

Arnav smiled softly and sat down beside Khushi, under blanket.

"How come you're using a duvet? It's May."

"I feel cold," Khushi pouted.

Arnav chuckled and placed his arm around Khushi as she snuggled into him. They stayed in that position for a while, no one saying a word. Arnav looked down at Khushi and saw that she was wide awake.

"What's wrong Khushi," he asked, tilting her chin up so that she'd look at him.

"Arnav, I don't know why, but I think the baby is coming very soon."

Arnav scrunched his eyebrows. "But the baby's not due till June 2nd. We've got about two weeks."

"I know, but my gut is saying that it's coming really soon, like in a day or two."

Arnav shook his head. "I think the doctor is the expert in this field, so let's just go with what she said, okay?"

"But Arnav-"

"But nothing Khushi."

Khushi pouted and nodded. Arnav smiled softly and ran his fingers through her hair. Khushi absolutely loved it and she sighed in content.

"I love this," Khushi sighed.

Arnav slightly tensed and instantly relaxed. "Really?"

Khushi nodded.

"You like me holding onto you?"

Khushi nodded again.

"I do too."

Khushi looked up at him and saw him looking at her. Both got stuck in gaze, unable to look away from the other. Without even realizing, they were moving their faces closer to the other's. Their lips were only a few centimeters away and all they could think of was closing the distance.

"Kiss me Arnav. Please," Khushi pleaded.

Arnav didn't waste a second and kissed her without a word. Khushi caressed his face in her hand and Arnav held her by her waist. He slightly moved her so that she was fully laying on the bed and moved his hand over her bump, caressing it under her baggy t-shirt. As the seconds passed, the kiss intensified. Khushi's hands were exploring Arnav's body, revisiting places she once had many, many months ago.

Khushi broke away first so that she could catch her breath. Both tugged on air, but their hands didn't stop their task. Khushi's hands enjoyed the feeling of his muscles, while Arnav enjoyed the feeling of her soft skin in his touch.

"Touch me Arnav? Please? I really want to be touched, I don't why, but I need to be touched!"

Arnav nodded and kissed her again. He let his hand do whatever it wanted, which liked the feel of Khushi's soft skin. It dared to go higher so it traveled up her waist and before Arnav even realized it, he had cupped her breasts. Khushi yelped and let go of him, her breasts feeling hypersensitive.

Arnav's eyes widened. "Khushi, are you okay?"

Khushi nodded, her eyes shut. "Yeah, I'm fine-"

"Don't lie! Look at me."

"It's okay Arnav, they're just sensitive, that's all."

Khushi looked up at him, reassuring him and he sighed and nodded, taking her word. Khushi smiled softly and kissed him on his cheek. With a little sigh, she shut her eyes and snuggled into Arnav. In the blink of an eye, Khushi fell asleep, surprising Arnav.

She got tired that easily, he wondered. Wow.

Arnav tried to move away, But Khushi had her grip on him. He carefully moved Khushi and got out of the bed. He slowly released her grip off of him and tucked her in. Khushi sighed in content and snuggled into her pillow, a small smile playing on her lips. Arnav smiled and tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear. Tip-toeing out of the room, he carefully shut the door and sighed.

It was at that moment that he realized the bit of wetness on his hand. He lifted his hand up and saw that it really was wet. And that was when he realized that this hand was the one that had just fondled Khushi only a few minutes ago, let alone touched her body.

Arnav's eyes widened, his jaw slacking. What did I just do?

Chapter Thirteen

"No way, that's a horrible name!"

"Horrible name? Khushi, you're being ridiculous!"

Ever since their day started, there was not but bickering between the two. They were trying to come up with a names, one boy and one girl, since they didn't know what was the sex of their baby. But nothing was working out, both disliking what the other chose.

Arnav sighed. "Khushi, we've been doing this since breakfast - this shouldn't be taking that long!"

"Are you kidding me? It should take as long as it needs! Arnav, I'm not going to name my child something ridiculous!"

"None of them are ridiculous - you're ridiculous!"

Khushi gasped dramatically. "I am not," she defended.

Arnav threw his arms up in the air. "I give up," and he walked away.

"Arnav Singh Raizada, get back here this instant!"

But Arnav ignored her and continued to walk away.

"Arnav," Khushi shouted, but Arnav left.

Khushi sighed and plopped down into a chair. She looked down at her baby bump and put her hand on it. "Your father is ridiculous," she huffed.

*~*

Time went on and as Khushi's pregnancy went on smoothly, Dadi was crippling. She had fallen ill, and things hadn't been good for her since then. She mostly stayed in her room, tended to by workers all day. A bad case of the flu had really affected her and her being aged and worn - it was taking a toll out of her.

Arnav wondered what would happen in the future. He was very much concerned with the pregnancy. The doctor had said that everything was okay, but his worries weren't on that.

Within a few weeks, things got worse for Dadi, and she was admitted into the hospital. She was very much weak and her body was starting to shut down. Arnav sat outside, waiting for the doctor so he could get an update from him. Khushi had wanted to come along, but with her pregnancy nearing the end, he wanted her to rest as much as possible. Being in the hospital right now would just stress her out.

The doctor came out and Arnav approached him.

"How is she," Arnav asked.

"She's responding to what we're giving her, so that's good news. She's been put to sleep right now so she can rest. But I'm sorry to say Mr. Raizada, that she may not live for long."

Arnav looked down and sighed. It was the expected with what's been going on. He slightly nodded and the doctor patted his shoulder and walked away.

Later that night, when he told Khushi what he had been told, she felt really bad for him. He had lost everyone else and now he was about to lose the one person that was left in his family. She stayed by his side the rest of the evening, trying to lighten up his mood. Arnav knew very well of what Khushi was doing, and it made him happy to know that even if he didn't have family, he still had Khushi to care about him.

But the question was for how long.

A couple of nights later, Arnav wasn't able to sleep. He laid back in bed and stared up at the ceiling. He thought of what his future days would be like. He would have the mansion all to himself, no one else but him, his child, and Khushi. But then he wondered if Khushi would even stay with him.

Why would she stay with me, he wondered. Who am I to her? I mean all I really am to her is the father of her child. I'm nothing else to her. 

He turned and faced his right. What's life going to be like after the baby arrives? Will I be a good father? I hope I don't fail the child. I want to be by its side forever. And Khushi? Will she let me?

He turned to his left. Of course she will, what kind of a question is that? She would never be mean!

He turned and looked back at the ceiling. What's gonna happen between us though? Will we remain friends? And how is everything going to be set up? Will we live separately? Will we find a place to stay together as a family? But if that's the case, how will that work out? I guess we could sleep in different rooms?

Arnav shut his eyes and groaned. Way too many thoughts in one night. I seriously need sleep before my thoughts make me crazy!

While Arnav tried to get some sleep, tossing and turning now and then, over in Khushi's room, Khushi was busy with her scrapbook. She was going through it, looking at all the pictures she had. She not only had still shots from the sonograms, but she had put in pictures of her and Arnav in as well. She saw her body changing as she went through the pictures - from her skinny self to her very-much pregnant self.

A smile spread on her face as she looked at the pictures of them. They had gotten really close in the amount of time the time they've had together.They had shared many precious moments as well, all thanks to their baby.

Khushi leaned back as she recalled the first time their baby had kicked.

~

Khushi was relaxing in the library, reading a pregnancy book, the fireplace lit up. Arnav came in with her medications and set them down on a table beside her.

"Time to take your meds," Arnav announced.

Khushi smiled lightly as he passed her a bottle of water and her medication. She took them all and handed the bottle back to Arnav. He placed it down and sat beside Khushi.

Arnav looked at the book she was reading, which she had placed on her bump. "Teaching the kid how to deal with pregnancy already?"

Khushi giggled. "No, no way," she smiled.

She picked the book up and put it down then looked back at Arnav.

"How are you feeling," Arnav asked.

"I'm good," Khushi smiled. "Just fat and waddling around."

Arnav shook his head. No matter how many times he told her she wasn't "fat", she'd still call herself fat.

"You look good," Arnav said. "You're glowing," he stated.

Khushi smiled, looking down at her bump. "That would be the pregnancy effect," she said, looking back at him.

"Maybe."

The two looked at each other for a moment. They were locked in gaze, their eyes daring not to drop from the other's. Suddenly Khushi yelped and shut her eyes, her hand automatically going to her bump.

Arnav's eyes widened. "Khushi, are you okay," he panicked. "Is it the baby? Is something wrong? Should I call an ambulance? Should I-?"

"No, I'm fine-"

"But you just yelled out-"

Khushi grabbed Arnav's hand and placed it over her bump. "Feel that?"

Arnav had his eyebrows scrunched when he felt a thump. His eyes widened and he looked up at Khushi.

"The baby kicked," Khushi beamed.

Arnav couldn't believe it and moved his hand on her bump, placing his cheek against it as well. The baby kicked once more and Arnav had felt it.

"It did," Arnav said, unable to believe it. "The baby kicked," he said in excitement.

The two stayed in that position, feeling the baby. Khushi looked at Arnav in awe. He had started talking to their baby, gone into full conversation. Khushi smiled softly and placed her hands in his hair, running her fingers through it as he carried on his conversation, engaging Khushi in now and then.

~

Khushi sighed. What's gonna happen after you're here, she wondered, caressing her baby bump.

She felt the baby move slightly and she sighed.

Khushi smiled lightly. Okay, momma won't bother you about daddy. Good night my baby.

Khushi got up and put the scrapbook away then headed to bed, letting go of all her confusion and falling asleep.

Chapter Twelve

Time went on and so did Khushi's pregnancy. The year ended and turned into another. Winter took over the town, covering it up with snow. Arnav had gotten way more protective, ever since the first day of winter to be exact, which was absurd to Khushi, as well as funny.

Khushi never brought up the conversation she had heard between Arnav and his Dadi and kept it to herself. She didn't tell anyone about it - not Payal nor Ammijan. She didn't think on it too much because she knew she'd be stressing over it and that was the last thing she needed right now.

Her pregnancy was going well, her visits to the doctor rather pleasurable. She'd obtained more images of her baby and she continued to work on her scrapbook. She didn't tell anyone about her scrapbook since she wanted to keep it for herself. Especially after what she heard from Dadi, she wanted these moments to be precious and remembered, so even if Dadi did kick her out, she'd leave with good memories.

Khushi was now 18 weeks pregnant, and she couldn't wait to see how much her baby had grown. Her bump was visible, no doubt. Thanks to her knit tops that she had bought for the winter, many people didn't notice since they were baggy.

"Excited to see your baby," Dr. Thomas asked.

Khushi nodded.

"Okay, but first, I have to ask you two something, which I told you about last time you came."

Arnav and Khushi knew very well about what she was going to ask.

"Do you want to find out the sex of the baby?"

When they were here three weeks back, Dr. Thomas had told them that at the next visit, they would be able to find out the gender of the baby. Khushi wasn't positive, but Arnav had decided in a snap that he didn't want to know. Khushi wondered why, but she never asked.

It took her a while and only recently had she come up with her decision.

"Arnav doesn't want to know the sex," Khushi replied.

"Do you want to know?"

Arnav looked at Khushi.

"No," Khushi replied. "No I don't. I'd rather be surprised."

"Are you sure," Arnav asked. "You weren't positive before."

"I'm positive. I gave it some thought and thought why not be surprised? So no, I don't wish to know the gender of the baby."

"Okay," Dr. Thomas smiled lightly.

As Dr. Thomas did her work, Arnav looked at Khushi.

"Khushi, are you sure," he asked.

"Yes Arnav, I am," she smiled softly.

"I hope it's not because of me."

"No Arnav, it's not because of you. But I do want to know why you don't want to know."

Arnav shrugged. "It doesn't matter to me. It's still our child at the end of the day, and that's all that matters to me. I guess its because I also kinda want it as a surprise."

Khushi smiled softly. "Okay."

"Ready to see your baby," Dr. Thomas asked.

The two nodded.

Everyone looked at the screen and both Arnav and Khushi sighed. Their baby had gotten much bigger since the first time they'd seen it.

"You see that," Dr. Thomas said, pointing at the screen. "Your baby just yawned."

"Aww," Khushi gushed.

Suddenly, the baby moved and Khushi's eyes widened slightly.

"I felt that," Khushi gasped.

"It's normal to start feeling a few things here and there," Dr.Thomas smiled. "I'll just print out some still shots for you."

She printed out some out and handed it over to the duo. Dr. Thomas scheduled an appointment with her in three weeks, and then they left. In the car, Arnav was rather silent.

"Is something wrong, Arnav," Khushi asked.

"Hmm? Oh, no, I'm fine."

"You sure? You're very quiet."

"I'm fine."

Khushi looked forward to the cars in front. I wonder what's wrong.

Arriving back to the mansion, they were greeted by the warmth that filled up the whole house. As soon as Khushi entered the house, she could smell food in the air.

"Yum, what is that smell," Khushi wondered, biting her lip.

Arnav sniffed but couldn't really smell anything. "What smell?"

Khushi didn't bother answering and went towards the kitchen. Confused, Arnav followed behind and both saw caterers working in the kitchen.

"What the? What is going on," Arnav asked.

Dadi was there, checking up on things. "Not much, just a little dinner thing."

"Dadi, how many times do I have to tell you? No!"

"But Arnav-"

"But nothing!"

"Arnav, you haven't celebrated your birthday in years!"

Before Arnav could say anything, Khushi spoke.

"It's your birthday today?"

Arnav looked at Khushi. "Yeah."

"And you didn't tell me?"

"It's not important, not to me at least."

But Khushi didn't care. Her hormones were all over the place and she was upset that Arnav hadn't told her. Tears pooled in her eyes and before Arnav could say anything, Khushi stormed out.

"Khushi," Arnav called out after her, but she didn't turn back.

Arnav turned to say something to Dadi, but in the blink of an eye, Khushi came storming back in. She walked over to the caterers and saw the chocolate covered strawberries on a plate and took them, along with a plate of chicken and shrimp quesadillas, and walked right back out. Arnav scrunched his eyebrows and followed behind Khushi, ignoring his dadi calling after him.

Khushi walked over to the TV room and sat on the huge leather sofa. She placed the food beside her, placed her legs on the table in front of her, and turned on the smart TV, finding something to watch on Netflix. Arnav entered the room and couldn't help himself but to smile as he saw Khushi gobble up a quesadilla, one after the other. He watched as she devoured the whole plate and then moved on to the chocolate covered strawberries.

"How much are you going to eat," Arnav asked.

Khushi looked up and saw him standing at the doorway. She twitched her lips and turned away. Arnav chuckled and went over to Khushi and sat beside her. Khushi picked up a chocolate covered strawberry and bit into it.

"Not gonna share," Arnav asked.

"I don't share unless you're the birthday boy. Oh wait! You are," she smiled sarcastically.

Arnav sighed and looked at the TV to see The Tudors playing.

He looked back at Khushi. "I'm sorry."

"Why are you sorry," she asked, taking another bite of the strawberry.

"Because I didn't tell you it was my birthday."

"Hmm."

Khushi finished and got another one.

"May I have one?"

Khushi sighed and looked at Arnav. She placed the strawberry in her mouth and slowly bit off from it. "No,"she said slowly.

Arnav just blinked, his jaw slacking. What Khushi just did gave him a heady feeling. He watched as Khushi chewed and bit into the strawberry again. She licked her lips, and Arnav felt his body reacting.

"Arnav," she asked, biting into another strawberry.

"Yeah," he said, his eyes not coming off her mouth.

"Why don't you celebrate your birthday," she asked, facing him.

Arnav snapped out of his trance and looked at her. "I just don't."

"But why?"

"Because I don't like celebrating it."

"So there's a deeper meaning."

Arnav tilted his head and just looked at her. "What do you think?"

"I think that there's something... emotional to it," and she picked up another strawberry.

"And why is that," he asked, watching her bite into the strawberry.

"I just think that. And I think it has to do with your parents."

Arnav looked up at her eyes.

Khushi smirked lightly. "Your reaction tells me I'm right."

Khushi looked back at the TV and finished her strawberry.

"You're right."

Khushi looked at Arnav, who was looking down.

"It is because of parents."

Khushi lowered the volume and turned her body towards him. "Go on."

Arnav sighed sadly. "My parents aren't in this world, Khushi."

Khushi looked at him, her eyes softening. "I figured that much."

Arnav looked down at his hands.

"How long has it been?"

"They passed away during the winter of our freshman year."

"So it hasn't even been that long."

Arnav nodded and leaned back, staring up at the ceiling. Khushi felt bad, so she offered him a chocolate-covered strawberry. Arnav smiled softly as he took it and bit into it, looking back at the ceiling. They both were quiet for a moment, when Arnav broke the silence.

"It changed my life."

Khushi looked at him.

"After they passed away, everything just changed for me. I began to stop caring about everything, got angry really fast, and I started to drink and smoke."

"And that's when you became the bad boy you once were," Khushi said softly.

Arnav nodded and looked down. "I just ended up doing it. I didn't have a care for the world - I partied, drank, smoked, did a whole bunch of crazy shit! No one ever stopped me and nothing could stop me."

Khushi scrunched her eyebrows. "But you did stop. You just suddenly stopped being the bad boy you were towards the end of sophomore year."

Arnav nodded. "All because of my dadi."

Khushi waited for Arnav to go on, but he remained silent. Assuming that it was something personal, she didn't ask him why. They were silent once more, but this time, Khushi broke the silence.

"What were your parents like?"

"They were... well, if anything, they were very much in love," he said, a soft smile spreading on his face. "As a kid, it was just annoying and gross to me..."

Khushi chuckled.

"... but as I got older, I understood how crazy they were for each other, even at their age. It made me wonder if it really was possible to love someone as much as they loved each other. But seeing them was all the proof I needed. I decided then that if I were to get married someday, then it would be to the person I love."

Khushi smiled softly, hearing Arnav's sweet words.

"It's what I've always wanted - to find someone that loved me as much as I loved them. To someday get married and to have a family together... but things didn't go as I wanted...."

Khushi looked to the side. She felt somewhat hurt, but she didn't say anything. Instead, she patted him on the shoulder and offered him a smile. He returned it, and the two just sat there, staring into space, as a sex scene on The Tudors played before them.

Too bad no one paid attention - otherwise who knows what it could've led to.

Chapter Eleven

Two weeks passed and Arnav and Khushi had gotten closer. Their days began and ended with each other, each day getting better and better as the baby grew bigger and bigger. People at school still spoke about them. In the beginning it was the shock that had them talking - that the ex-bad boy and the goodie-two-shoes-slash-nobody had made a baby together. Now when they spoke about them, it was their curiosity on whether or not they were a thing.

Payal knew of these things and she had began to wonder about the same thing. She cared for Khushi as much as she cared for her. Earlier when Khushi had gotten the pictures of her baby, Khushi was nervous on sharing them with Payal since Payal had lost her child. Payal didn't deny the fact that she was a bit envious, but she cared for the happiness of her best friend's so she overlooked it and was happy for Khushi.

When Arnav and Khushi came to class, Payal went over to Khushi.

"Hey Khushi. Can I talk to you for a bit," she asked, glancing at Arnav.

It had become a regular thing for Arnav to sit with Khushi. He moved his desk back everyday so that he would sit next to Khushi. The teacher would yell, but Arnav never cared, and the teacher gave up. So since Payal wanted to talk to Khushi privately, she would have to get her away from Arnav.

Arnav moved his seat to where it should be and Payal spoke low to Khushi so only that they could hear.

"What's up," Khushi asked.

"Nothing much. I see you've taken on some weight."

"Yeah, I have. So what did you wanna talk about?"

Payal glanced around and then looked at Khushi. "What's going on between you and Arnav?"

"What do you mean?"

"I mean are you guys like a thing?"

Khushi scrunched her eyebrows. "What?"

"Do you guys go out?"

"No! What-"

"Everyone's asking questions Khushi. The whole student body is wondering if you guys are together or not."

"Why? Just because he's the father of my child?"

Payal tilted her head. "Khushi, you have to admit that you guys have gotten closer. And I mean way closer."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"You guys come in matching now and then. You're always together, coming in and going out of this building. You even spend more time with him!"

"I do not!"

"Yes you do Khushi."

Khushi looked away.

"Listen, I'm just asking because it's annoying to hear crap from all of these people."

Khushi sighed. "I'm sorry Pays. I didn't mean to yell."

"I know," she smiled softly. "I'm just looking out for you."

Khush smiled as well.

Payal glanced back at Arnav. "He seems to be doing a very good job."

"He is," Khushi said, looking at Arnav, who was busy on his phone.

"He's very sweet."

"He is. Every night, before we go to bed, he always says goodnight to me and the baby."

"That's cute."

"Mm hmm. We spend a lot of time together at his place. The idea of the baby keeps us together and it goes on beyond that."

Payal looked at Khushi for a moment, watching how Khushi was looking at Arnav. "You're in love."

Khushi snapped back to reality. "What?"

"You're in love."

Khushi couldn't believe what she was hearing. "Don't be absurd!"

"You're in love Khushi. It's visible all over your face. The way you look at him, the way you act around him, the way you care about him - I've been seeing it with my own two eyes Khushi. You're talking about him all the time and you worry about the smallest of things when it comes to him. You're in love Khushi, and you're in denial."

Khushi just blinked. "That's the funniest thing I've heard in a while," she grinned.

Payal held her hands up in innocence. "I said it as I see it, sister. It's up to you on whether or not you wanna be in denial."

Payal tapped Arnav's shoulder and went back to her seat. Arnav moved his seat back and looked at Khushi confusedly.

"What was that about," Arnav asked.

"Nothing," Khushi smiled lightly.

Class went on and Arnav had his arm wrapped around Khushi the entire time. In the middle of the lesson, Khushi began to wonder about Payal said.

Could she be right, Khushi wondered.

The thought stuck to her head all day. It annoyed Khushi that she couldn't figure it out. Even back at Arnav's she was lost in thought.

Do I love him? You'd think that you would know that you love someone but no! This is so stupid! 

Khushi was in her room, completing her homework.

I probably think so much about Arnav because he's the father of my child. That's not wrong of me. Plus I now live with him, so sorry if my life now focuses more around him!

I don't like him, I highly doubt it. Payal is just saying some crazy stuff!

Khushi finished up the last of her homework. She had nothing to do, so she decided she'd spend some time with Arnav. Heading over to Arnav's room, she knocked and opened the door. Arnav was nowhere to be seen so she stepped in.

"Arnav," she called out, but Arnav wasn't there.

She looked around the room, but Arnav was nowhere to be found.

Where is he?

Khushi walked out of the room and looked for him. Arnav was usually in his room at this time of the day, busy with homework and other stuff. It puzzled her as to why Arnav wasn't there today.

Khushi was walking past Dadi's room, when she heard her talking.

"... see Arnav? Even though you chose not to hear my words, life played its game and you did what I asked of you."

Asked of him? What? She moved to the door so that she could get a peek inside.

"Wrong," Arnav said. "I did it as a mistake, which I regret-"

"How dare you?! Do you not care for this family? Arnav you are the only hope I have to see this family continue!"

Khushi scrunched her eyebrows. Only hope?

"Why does it matter so much to you? None of this is important-"

"Of course it is important. Do you have any idea how much of a respected family we are because of your ancestors?!"

"I don't care!"

"Well I do! This family lineage is very important to me and unless I see the next heir, I will not be able to die peacefully."

"That's ridiculous-"

"You wouldn't understand because you don't care. All that matters to me is that I see the heir of this family and rest in peace."

"You're a mad woman! Honestly, I wish I had never walked out of the house that day. Then maybe, just maybe, all of this could've been prevented from happening."

Khushi felt her heart pit. Arnav....

"But you can't change time," Dadi said. "Trust me, if it could have, then I would've changed everything

Arnav looked away.

"We will speak no more of this. What's done is done, and all that matters now is the child Khushi is carrying-"

"And what exactly do you plan to do when she gives birth to the child," Arnav asked, looking at her. "Answer that because that's one thing I simply don't understand."

Khushi's eyes widened, fear growing inside.

"When the heir is born, I will-"

Khushi stepped back and knocked a small vase over, which was sitting on a table behind her. The vase broke into pieces and Khushi moved away before Arnav and his dadi came out.

Arnav was the first one to come out of the room. "Khushi, are you okay? What are you doing here?"

"M-my head was spinning slightly," Khushi lied. "I was going to go downstairs for water, but my head was spinning and I ended up turning into this hall and bumped into the table," she said and held her forehead.

Arnav went to her side immediately and held her. "You should've asked for someone to help you."

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bump into the table-"

"Ssh, that's not important," Arnav said softly. "What matters is that you're okay and didn't get hurt."

Khushi nodded, looking down at the floor.

Dadi had come out and had called a worker to clean up the mess. "Khushi, I think it's best if you go to your room."

"Okay," Khushi nearly whispered.

Arnav was about to walk her away, when Dadi spoke.

"Wait Khushi."

The two looked back at her.

Dadi came up to her and for a moment, Khushi was scared. She was hoping that Dadi hadn't realized that she had lied.

Dadi stood in front of her. "You have to be more careful okay? If you ever need anything, just tell someone to do it. It's their job to help you. Okay?"

Khushi nodded. "I'll try to keep that in mind."

Dadi smiled lightly. "I know you're not used to it yet, but hopefully you will."

Khushi nodded and Arnav took her back to her room. He helped her into bed and placed the covers over her.

Arnav tucked her in. "If you need anything, just call me, okay?"

Khushi nodded but she didn't look at him.

"Hey, what's wrong?"

Arnav sat down beside Khushi, cupping her face in his hand, moving it so that she'd look at him. For a moment, the two just looked at each other. Khushi looked at him and wondered to herself.

Why is it that I can't take my eyes off of him? This should feel awkward but... but it feels perfect.

"Khushi are you scared about what just happened?"

Khushi looked down. If you only knew what's going through my head.

Arnav sighed. "Khushi, don't be scared. You don't have to worry about anything. You didn't fall over, and that's what matters. You just need to be a bit more careful."

Khushi just nodded.

Arnav smiled softly. "Don't worry about a thing. I'll take care of you and our baby. Okay?"

Khushi looked up at him. He was smiling and Khushi could only wonder. She nodded slightly and Arnav got up to turn off the lights and closed the door behind him as he left. Once the door shut, Khushi could only stare up at the ceiling and think of Arnav's and dadi's conversation.

*Flashback*

"And what exactly do you plan to do when she gives birth to the child? Answer that because that's one thing I simply don't understand.

"When the heir is born, I will-"

*End of Flashback*

Khushi cursed, mad that she didn't get to hear the end of what Dadi had to say.

Is she going to kick me out, Khushi wondered. Is that what she plans on doing?

Khushi turned to her side.

You know what, who cares if she does. I don't care. I don't care at all! I don't care one bit that...

Dhak-dhak! Dhak-dhak!

Dhak-dhak! Dhak-dhak!

Khushi sighed. That I realize that I'm lying.

Khushi shut her eyes and she saw Arnav flash before her eyes. She opened them up immediately and shut them again. She, again, saw an image of Arnav flash before her eyes.

Khushi took in a sharp breath. I think I am falling for Arnav.

Chapter Ten

Before I start...
Remember how I asked if you guys know why Khushi was surprised? Well, Penrith was the first to get it!


Khushi opened the door and without even thinking, went in. She couldn't believe what she was seeing with her own two eyes.

Arnav Singh Raizada was also doing namaz.

Arnav finished and looked up to see Khushi. "Khushi, what are you doing here?"

Khushi realized her intrusion. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have come in like that. It's just that, I was so surprised."

"Why?"

"You were doing namaz... but, I thought... I mean your name-"

"A name is a name Khushi - it doesn't make us who we are. What we do makes us who we are."

Khushi slightly smiled, liking his little quote.

"So what can I help you with," Arnav asked as he put his janamaz away.

"I'm kinda hungry...."

"Oh, okay. Come, I'll show you to the kitchen."

Arnav led her down to the kitchen and helped her up with a sandwich. Khushi ate in a jiffy, surprising Arnav and herself by how hungry she was and how she gobbled up the sandwich.

"How about I give you a tour," Arnav said.

Khushi nodded in agreement and followed Arnav around the mansion. It was big and spacious, no doubt, but it was very empty. With the numerous rooms that the mansion held, Khushi would've thought that Arnav had a big family living here. But yet the only people she'd seen all day were Arnav and his Dadi.

As they were heading to the dining room for dinner, Khushi couldn't help but to ask.

"Arnav?

"Yeah?"

"Where's the rest of your family?"

Arnav scrunched his eyebrows.

"I mean... you live in such a big place, and I've only seen you and your Dadi here so...?"

Arnav looked away. "There's only the two of us."

Khushi was confused. "What do you mean?"

They were near the dining room, so Arnav didn't bother answering Khushi and quickly slipped into the room. Khushi watched Arnav in confusion as he sat down. She went over to him and sat beside him, looking down at the table in front of her.

Why is Arnav dodging the topic, Khushi wondered.

Dadi came in a few moments later and dinner was served by the workers. Unlike at home, dinner was quiet at the Raizada home. Khushi ate, feeling really awkward in the silence. Back at home, the kids always had to say something, sometimes even singing, and Ammijan would yell at them for not listening to her.

It felt like forever for dinner to end. Once they were finished, workers placed bowls of water before them. Khushi looked at it in confusion and noticed Arnav and his dadi dipping their hands in to wash up. Khushi did the same and found it odd.

They sure are fancy, Khushi said in her head.

All washed up, she dried her hand with the cloth napkin provided. The workers took the bowls away, and Arnav and his dadi got up to go back to their rooms. Khushi followed Arnav, going back upstairs towards their room.

"That was kind of uncomfortable," she muttered to herself.

"Sorry about that," Arnav said.

Khushi looked up at him. She didn't think she had said it that loud. "Sorry," she blushed.

"It's okay. I don't like the silence either."

Khushi scrunched her eyebrows. Then why don't you say something to engage a conversation?"

Arnav paused and Khushi stopped behind him.

"Things aren't the same as they used to be?"

Khushi tilted her head. "Meaning?"

Arnav shook his head and faced her. "Nothing. I hope you'll be alright your first night here?"

Khushi glanced into her room, which they had stopped in front of. "I think so."

Arnav nodded. "And if you need anything, you know where I am."

Khushi nodded. "Okay."

Arnav smiled lightly. "If I may; can I say good night?"

Khushi's eyebrows scrunched. "Of course."

In the blink of an eye, Arnav was on his knees. Khushi gasped and was about to step back by instinct, but Arnav held her hands. Khushi froze and looked at him wide eyed, but Arnav wasn't looking at her.

"I don't know you so much, but I know something good will come out of us," Arnav said softly.

Khushi looked at him confusedly.

"Within time, I hope we bond. I definitely want you in my life and I hope you'll feel the same."

He wants me in his life, Khushi wondered.

"I can't wait to meet you," Arnav smiled.

Wait what?

Arnav softly placed his hand over Khushi's stomach and her eyes shot down to his hand and then to his face.

"I can't wait to hold you in my arms," Arnav said softly, stroking Khushi's stomach.

Feeling Arnav's fingers on her body sent tingles up Khushi's spine. She even shivered slightly, which Arnav felt. He looked up at her and then pulled his hand away.

"Sorry," Arnav said as he stood up.

Khushi shook her head. "It's okay," she said, tucking a tendril of hair behind her ear.

Arnav looked away, slightly embarrassed. "Good night."

"Good night."

Arnav turned away and disappeared to his room. Khushi stepped into her room and shut the door, leaning against it for a moment.

He's very caring, Khushi said in her head. Maybe he really does care for the baby.

Khushi placed her hands over her tummy. I guess your father does care.

*~*

A couple of days passed and Arnav and Khushi were getting along well. Arnav could still be annoying now and then, but Khushi didn't mind as much as she used to. She was liking how things were going. In fact, she was liking him more than before.

One morning, Khushi was ready for school. She stepped out of her room to go to Arnav, only to see him coming her way. Khushi couldn't help but to ogle him down, wearing black skinny jeans, white v-neck, and a navy blue varsity jacket. As Arnav approached Khushi, he was checking his phone. When he looked up, he paused.

"Whoa," was all Arnav could say.

Arnav paused and looked Khushi down, her in black skinny jeans, white tank top, and a navy blue varsity jacket.

Arnav placed his finger to his lips. "I didn't know we were matching today."

Khushi hadn't even realized and looked down at her clothes and then at him, flushing. "I'm sorry, I didn't know."

Arnav chuckled. "There's nothing to be sorry about. I think it's cool."

"Really?'

"Yeah. Plus this will let people know that we're very much serious about all of this."

Khushi felt a pang in her chest. "You care about what people think?"

Arnav could tell that she took his words the wrong way, so he went up to her and placed his hands on her shoulders. "No, I don't. But if it helps them to stop annoying you and not stress you out, then I'm fine with it."

Khushi just looked at him. "You're that worried?"

Arnav nodded. "Yes. You're the mother of my child - why wouldn't I care?"

Khushi looked down and nodded.

Arnav smiled lightly and tilted her chin up so she'd look at him. "Hungry?"

Khushi nodded. "Very much," she slightly blushed.

Arnav smiled. "Let's go."

Taking her hand in his, Arnav led them downstairs to the kitchen. There was a breakfast bar and both of them took a seat. They were served waffles and Khushi feeling very hungry, ate waffle after waffle after waffle! Arnav gaped at Khushi as she ate her 7th waffle.

"That hungry," Arnav asked.

Khushi looked at him. "You have no clue," she said in the middle of chewing.

Before Khushi could grab her 8th, Arnav stopped her. 

"I think that's enough for one morning."

Khushi was going to object, but Arnav cut her off.

"We're going to be late."

Washing up, the two headed out. One of the workers pulled up with a white Audi and got out, handing the keys to Arnav.

"How many cars do you have," Khushi asked, once she and Arnav were seated.

"A couple," he said, pulling out and past the gates.

"You're such a guy."

Arnav winked and Khushi rolled her eyes.

"You have your appointment today, so I'll meet you outside of your class," Arnav said.

Khushi smacked her forehead. "I totally forgot."

Arnav came to a red light and looked at Khushi. "Khushi you have to remember these things."

"I know! I'm sorry, I didn't mean to."

Arnav sighed. "I know. Just try to keep these things in mind."

Khushi felt like a baby. "Okay," she slightly pouted.

Arnav chuckled and began to drive. "You're so cute when you pout."

Khushi blushed and looked at Arnav. She felt her heart flutter and she looked out the window, smiling lightly.

*~*

When they arrived to the school, all eyes had turned on them. It was the usual thing, and now they really didn't care. Arnav got out of his car and went around to open the door for Khushi. She came out and both walked in to the school together. Everyone around them muttered, their eyes glued to the two.

Walking in to class, they took their seats, and were in conversation, when two unwanted pests came strolling in.

"My, my, my, what have we here," Sheetal said. "A matching couple."

Arnav and Khushi rolled their eyes and ignored her.

"No girl, they're not a couple but a duo," Lavanya said. "Remember that they don't go out and she's just knocked up."

Arnav bunched his fists and was about to say something, but Khushi held his hand. He looked at her and she shook her head. Only because of Khushi, he didn't say anything but shot a nasty glare at the two. Feeling scared, the two went away to their seats.

The day went on and Khushi couldn't wait for it to end. Ever since she remembered the appointment, she had become very anxious. She was now very curious about her baby and she wondered if she would be able to see it at the doctors.

The day soon came to and end and Khushi was grateful. She put her notebook away in her bag and placed it over her shoulder. Handing in the assignment they were doing in class, she headed to the door and paused. Arnav was there, leaning against the doorway, looking as sexy as ever.

Khushi took in a sharp breath and let it out. Dancing hormones, she wondered. I believe so.

She walked towards him and Arnav smiled. "Ready?"

Khushi nodded.

Wrapping his arm around her shoulder, they headed to the main exit. All eyes were on the two and for the first time, Khushi felt good. She didn't care about everyone looking at them. She didn't know where the sudden confidence came from, but she straightened up and walked with Arnav towards his car.

They drove to the clinic and Arnav registered Khushi in. They waited a while, when the nurse called. Khushi went in alone and came back out after a few minutes, and waited for the doctor. Khushi was grateful that she had Arnav with her because the waiting was torturous. It was a matter of time when Khushi was finally called. Both Arnav and Khushi were led into Dr. Thomas' room.

"Hi, how are you two," she smiled.

"We're good," Khushi smiled.

The two sat in front of Dr. Thomas while she looked through Khushi's file.

"So how have you been Khushi," Dr. Thomas asked.

"I've been okay. The morning sickness isn't as bad as it initially was. I've been hungry a lot and eating a lot."

"No kidding there," Arnav teased.

Khushi playfully hit his arm. 

Dr. Thomas smiled. "I see you two have gotten closer."

Arnav and Khushi looked at each other.

"That's good," she smiled. She turned to Khushi. "We'll have to do some blood work again today and then we'll take a glimpse of what's going on with the baby."

Khushi took in a sharp breath. "Really?"

"Really," she smiled. "So let's get the blood work done; I'm sure both of you are anxious to see the baby."

Both Arnav and Khushi nodded.

Taking Khushi for a moment, a nurse dealt with the blood work. Dr. Thomas was busy setting up everything so that they could check up on the baby.Once Khushi's blood work were done, both Arnav and Khushi were taken to another room, where all the equipment was.

"Ready to see your baby," Dr. Thomas asked.

Khushi nodded.

"Then sit right here and let's see this baby."

Khushi nodded and did as she was told. Pulling her shirt up, Dr. Thomas placed a cold jelly-like substance on her stomach. Arnav was standing beside Khushi the entire time, completely anxious. He couldn't wait to see his baby.

Dr. Thomas did what she did and all eyes were on the screen. The duo grew antsy, wanting to see their baby already.

"Ah, there we go," Dr. Thomas said. 

The monitor displayed an image and Dr. Thomas zoomed in on it.

"That right there," she began, "is your baby."

Arnav and Khushi stared at the screen. They couldn't believe their eyes.

"You're at about seven weeks, it seems," Dr. Thomas said, zooming in a bit more. She pressed some buttons and wrote some stuff down in Khushi's file. "Everything seems to be okay and your baby seems fine."

"I can't believe it," Khushi whispered, her eyes never coming off the screen.

Dr. Thomas could only smile.

"That's our baby," Arnav asked, totally stupefied.

"The proper term is embryo but yes, yes it is," Dr. Thomas chuckled. "Your baby is starting to form," she said, pointing at the screen. "There's the baby's head and it's face its forming. The ears, eyes, nose and mouth are forming. And you see these," she asked, pointing at something paddle-like. "That's your baby's hands forming."

Khushi went into tears as she gazed at the screen.

"The embryo is about half an inch long."

"Half an inch," Arnav questioned. "That's about half the top part of my thumb!"

Dr. Thomas chuckled. "Yes, it's half an inch tall."

Arnav couldn't believe it and just gazed at the screen.

Dr. Thomas continued on showing them their baby, when the embryo moved slightly.

"Fidgety, are we," Dr. Thomas joked. "That's perfectly normal."

"When will I start to feel it moving," Khushi asked.

"Not until four months."

Khushi nodded in acknowledgment.

"I'll print out some still shots of the baby for you to keep, okay?"

The two nodded.

Dr. Thomas worked on printing the pictures while Arnav and Khushi looked at the still shot on the screen.

"I can't believe that's the baby," Arnav said.

"Me neither," Khushi replied.

The two looked at each other for moment, smiling softly.

*~*

Khushi's next appointment wasn't for another four weeks. Sitting in the car, the two were still blown away by the sight of their baby.

"Arnav?

"Hmm?"

"Can we visit Ammijan? I'd like to show her the pictures."

"Of course," he smiled.

It wasn't a long trip over and Ammijan was excited when she saw the images.

"It's so small," she sighed. She placed a kiss on the picture. "Bless it's soul," she smiled.

Both Arnav and Khushi smiled.

*~*

When Arnav and Khushi got to Arnav's place, they went to their rooms to rest. Khushi took off her varsity jacket and went to her closet. She looked around her stuff and found what she was looking for - a scrapbook. A while back, she had gotten a few scrapbooks because she wanted to keep the memories alive of her ending high school years. Since there was a sale, she bought three all together. Taking one that was black with white polka dots, she took the copies of her sonogram and placed it on a page. She labeled it, indicating the parts of the baby.

Once she was done, she smiled. 

Things just might get better, she said in her head.