Next to Impossible Part 1- 15

Part 1 Champion

A girl was standing outside a sweet shop without minding about the cold weather of Delhi. Her father was working as a SWEET-MASTER in the shop. Though her father was a KEY person in the sweet stall, he didn’t get good pay. He had been working in the shop for more than twenty years. The Sweet Stop was getting a profit only because of his dexterity. Yet, he was still a middle-class man. Of course, he got many offers from their opponent shops, but being a loyal man, he refused those offers.

His daughter Khushi was studying eighth standard in a Government school. Her School would start at 9:30 am. She visited her father’s sweet shop every day before going to school because there was a school near her father’s shop called Prince and Princess. It was a Royal School. All the BIG-SHOT children of Delhi studied in that school. Khushi liked their UNIFORM. A poor girl like her could not even dream of such a uniform with a coat and tie. Not only Khushi but many children of Delhi longed for the uniform. A light bluish-grey shirt with dark grey pants and tie attracted her like anything. It was their WINTER uniform. The uniform would be normal with a shirt and pants in summer and rainy seasons. She could see that uniform only for three months. She can’t even spend money on NEW uniforms every year but Prince and Princess school children spend thousands to buy coats for just three months of use.

The school bell rang. The main gate was closed. She came back home. Her mother Garima saw her entering.

“You came?”

Khushi smiled.

“I don’t know what’s in the uniform” she sighed.

“Are not the children of the school looking beautiful in the uniform?” Khushi said longingly.

“Are not you beautiful?” came from behind.

Khushi pouted, seeing her father.

“They are beautiful only in the Royal uniform but my princess is always beautiful in a simple dress,” Shashi said, which brought a smile to Khushi’s face.

“Babuji, could you get me such a coat?” She asked pleadingly.

“Ok, I will buy a coat but where will you wear it?”

Khushi bit her nail.

“The dress will lose its pride if you wear it to a simple place. So, improve your STANDARD. So that you will get a deserving place to wear a coat”

“How could I improve myself?” Khushi asked innocently.

“Study well…! Keep Abdul Kalamji’s words in your mind Always. Everything will happen automatically”

“Haannn… complete your daily work without pending. Right?”

“Exactly… don’t postpone your work. Complete them on time. Then, you will be stress-free for your exams. Then you can also become like a Great Abdul Kalamji. He also belonged to a poor family like us but he touched the peak… there is no one like him, right?”

“Haan Babuji. I like Kalam sir very much”

“Yeah, take him as your inspiration and work hard”

Khushi nodded ok cheerfully.

After that, she started scoring good marks in all the exams as she gave her best in her studies.

That was when their school SPORTS day came. Her classmate Jacqueline wanted to participate in the games as she ran fast. She knew she would surely win but she was hesitating because there was no one for her company. After all, they were small children. She came to Khushi and asked,

“Khushi, shall we participate in the games?”

“Me? But I won’t run fast…” she said blinking rapidly.

“I know. Just give it a try just like me. I too don’t run much fast…” she lied.

Khushi looked at her friend Preeto thoughtfully.

“Come on Khushi…” Jacqueline insisted. She knew Khushi was a SOFT-TOY type of girl. She could not win the race. Jacqueline was confident about it. That was why she invited Khushi.

Khushi nodded ok. She didn’t know how she got the courage. She went to the ground with Jacqueline and saw seventh and eighth-standard children waiting for their event to start.

“Are seventh-standard students going to run with us?” Khushi asked.

“Yes, It’s JUNIOR’s category. The sixth standard student will come under the SUB-Junior category. Seventh and eighth standard are Juniors, Ninth and tenth standard students are Seniors and Eleventh and Twelfth standard students are SUPER SENIORS” Jacqueline explained.

“Oh…”

They saw their school’s physical instructor coming with a wooden CLAP.

“All of you ready?”

“Yes, sir,” the students said.

“You can participate in FOUR events, two TRACK and two FIELD events. Choose which ones are good for you. The first event is the HUNDRED-meter running race. Students who are not going to participate can come out of the track”

As Khushi didn’t know about the RACE, she stood on the track. She saw seven girls standing with her.

“Only eight?” the PET master asked.

“Yes, sir,” The senior student who was with a notepad to MARK the winners said.

“Ok then, we will go for DIRECT FINALS… get ready participants…”

The girls stood in their tracks. Of course, Khushi was also… who was blind about the RACE.

“You should start running ONLY after hearing the CLAP sound. If you move before that, you will be disqualified” he warned and went behind them.

“On your marks… Get set… Go…”

That was all Khushi heard. She didn’t know how she ran. She was in the lead from the beginning. It was a hundred-meter race, that needed a good performance from beginning to end. A single second of delay was enough to be defeated. Though Khushi didn’t know anything, she did her best. She wondered when she crossed the finishing line FIRST. She could not believe she could run. Preeto, who was standing at the finishing line to cheer her up, hugged her.

“Khushiiii… you won…”

Khushi looked at her unbelievably.

“Hey, what’s your name?” The senior boy asked.

“Khushi Gupta, eighth standard A section” She looked at Jacqueline who was SECOND.

“Would you run this much faster?” She asked not showing her disappointment.

“I don’t know,” Khushi said with a hard breath.

The WIN gave Khushi NEW confidence. She participated in the Two Hundred Meter’ race and again won first prize. Jacqueline came second in the race. But, Khushi could not get first place in Long Jump. She won second and Jacqueline was first. Their class won first in the RELAY race. Of course, if there was Khushi and Jacqueline, their class would have to win first.

Khushi won the individual CHAMPIONSHIP of the Junior category. That was unexpected to her. she didn’t even know about the Championship trophy.

“I should not have invited you” Jacqueline directly showed her disappointment.

Khushi came home with a championship cup, completing the sports day.

“Babuji… I’m the champion” she said excitedly.

Shashi and Garima were absolutely happy.

“So, there was a PT. Usha hiding in you…!” Shashi smiled.

“Even I can’t believe this Babuji. I didn’t know how I ran faster than everyone”

“It’s in your blood. That’s why you can run without any practice”

Khushi nodded yes.

“So, practice everyday… you may win medals for India in the future” he said that only to appreciate her.

Khushi’s eyes sparkled because she saw Sportsmen who participated for India in international meets wore a COAT.

“I can wear a coat then, right?”

“Khushi, won’t you leave the coat?” Garima chuckled.

“Amma, do you know what it looks like?” She said dreamingly.

“Yeah, you can wear a coat… fly in the flight… you can get everything”

“Really?”

“Yes… anyone can study… but, not everyone can RUN. It’s a special feature… do it” Shashi appreciated.

Khushi’s school P.E.T. master became close to Khushi because she sincerely obeyed all his commands. He trained her interestingly and Khushi won prizes in the ZONAL sports meet in which a few schools participated.

Khushi became an unavoidable sports girl of their school who won the Championship every year.

Years passed in the blink of an eye…!

She was promoted to twelfth standard. Her present aim was to win medals in the STATE MEET for her school as she won her first Gold in the District meet that year. She was practising sincerely for the meet. At the same time, she didn’t compromise her studies because she wanted to be the FIRST GRADUATE of her family.

Though she became a Champion, she could not stop herself from ogling at the Uniform of the Prince and Princess school.

One day…

She came to her father’s shop as usual. She jerked hearing a truck stopping with an ear-piercing sudden brake. She was horrified, seeing the boy falling on the road in the pool of blood. He was the son of a sweeper and studied in her school. Khushi ran towards the boy. The public surrounded the boy but hesitated to be near him. Khushi entered the crowd. She got stuck, seeing a Princes and Princess School student who was in her favourite Uniform, picking the boy in his arms without caring about his costly uniform getting spoilt. He ran taking the boy in his arms and got into an auto while saying,

“Go to the MH hospital”

Khushi stood looking at the boy unbelievably because she thought students of Prince and Princess school would not be KIND but haughty. She was not wrong though. The way they LOOKED at others itself was haughty but this boy didn’t seem so because she saw nervousness on his face. The one who could feel others' pain would not be haughty. She supposed.

To be continued…

Part 2 Goal

Khushi observed the disappearing auto, a mix of awe and disbelief washed over her. The fact that someone from the Prince and Princess School had shown such compassion towards a poor boy was truly remarkable. Not only did he recognize the value of life, but he also treated all lives as equal.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the sight of people attacking the truck driver. The boy's parents arrived, frantically searching for their son.

"Where is our son? We heard he was in an accident...!" cried the boy's mother.

Khushi stepped forward and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

"Don't worry, Maji. Your son has been taken to the hospital."

"Which hospital?"

"MH Hospital," said Khushi, recalling the boy who had aided the auto driver.

"MH Hospital? Oh, God... that's the most expensive hospital in the city. Why didn't they take him to the government hospital?"

"It wasn't just people; a boy took him to the hospital."

"Who is this boy? Do you know him, dear?"

"I don't know him, but I saw him taking your son in an auto."

"Could you please come to the hospital with us? We're not used to going to such a big hospital... Please, help us." The mother pleaded.

"I will come with you," Khushi replied without hesitation.

Khushi escorted the boy's parents to MH Hospital.

Khushi confidently approached the reception at the hospital and inquired about the boy. The receptionist guided them to the operation theatre that was on the first floor, and Khushi followed, feeling confused. How could they possibly operate on the boy without their parent's signature?

Upon reaching the first floor, Khushi spotted the same Prince and Princess School student who had rushed the little boy to the hospital, talking on the phone outside the operating theatre. He wasn't wearing her favorite coat, as it was drenched in blood.

"I'm in the hospital," he said on the phone. Khushi found his husky and fetching voice appealing.

 

"I was waiting for Lavanya to wish her a happy birthday at the entrance when the boy had the accident. I brought him to the hospital."

Who was Lavanya? She must be his friend. Khushi thought.

"I will come later... Don't wait for me. I badly need a bath... So, I will go home to take a bath. After that only I will come to school"

"...."

"I will take a cab..."

"....."

"Bye..." he disconnected the call.

"He's the one who brought your son here," Khushi informed the boy's parents.

The parents rushed to the boy, but Khushi hesitated, standing a little away, feeling hesitant to approach him.

"Beta, where is our child?" the father of the boy inquired.

"He is in the operation theatre. The doctors are treating him. He will be all right. Relax," the boy assured them.

"But, we have no money to pay the hospital fee. Why did you bring him here? We are poor and can't afford this," the father expressed his worry.

"You don't have to pay because I already did," the boy replied, leaving the boy's parents emotional and Khushi thunderstruck. Did he pay for the boy? A broad smile spread across her face.

"The doctors will take care of your son. Don't worry."

They observed the doctors exiting the operating theatre.

"How is the boy, uncle?" the boy inquired of the doctor.

Khushi raised her eyebrows listening to him calling the doctor as UNCLE.

"He is doing well. Nothing to worry about. He will be alright. He just sustained a blow to his forehead and has a few scratches. He will be discharged in a day or two."

"There's no rush. Keep him under observation and send him home after two days." The boy said.

"Yes, as you say."

Khushi was fixated on the boy. Who was he? Why were the doctors obeying him as if he were the hospital owner?

The boy took a paper from his pocket and wrote something. He handed it to the little boy's father.

"This is my phone number. Feel free to call me if you need anything," he offered.

"Thank you so much, beta."

"You're welcome. Follow the doctor's instructions."

"Sure..."

He handed a few five hundred-rupee notes to the boy's father.

"Keep it. I'm leaving. I have to go to school."

"Thank you so much," the boy's father emotionally grasped his hand.

"Goodbye," he gently pulled away and walked off.

Khushi couldn't take her eyes off of him. She was gazing at him, standing at the corner of the corridor. The boy glanced at Khushi for a second when he crossed her.

She approached the boy's parents.

"Could you please input his number on this mobile?" the man requested.

Taking the paper, she read the number. There was no name in the paper.

“Did he tell his name?” Khushi asked.

“No beta. Write HOSPITAL BOY”

She input the number into the mobile, which seemed rather fragile and was secured with three rubber bands.

"Thank you for helping us, beta"

 

"That's okay, I am leaving," Khushi said keeping the paper in her track pants pocket.

They nodded, and that was when Khushi's eyes caught sight of something. Her favorite prince and princess school coat was lying on the hospital dustbin. It didn't take long for her to know whose coat it was. She slowly moved towards the coat, which was drenched with blood, and took it in her hand. Opening it with determination, she saw Arnav Singh Raizada had been written on the left side of the coat. Her lips curved into a beautiful smile. Unconsciously caressing the name, she felt a deep respect for him in her heart.

Khushi looked around, folded the coat, and walked off confidently, taking it with her.

Asking for a plastic bag from the hospital helper, she securely wrapped Arnav's coat in it and brought it home. After carefully ensuring her mother wasn't around, she concealed the coat bag under the iron cot.

Garima emerged from the room, ready to leave, and Khushi greeted her with a smile.

"Khushi, your breakfast and lunch are ready. Have your breakfast and take the lunch box. I'm leaving," Garima said.

"Will you be back late today also, Amma?" Khushi inquired.

"Yes, today is Thursday. The crowd will be heavy at Babaji's temple, and almsgiving will continue until evening. I'll be back only after it's over," Garima responded.

Breathing a sigh of relief, Khushi knew her mother wouldn't return until the evening. It was her routine. As soon as Garima departed, Khushi hurried to the kitchen, and boiled water in a large vessel. She soaked Arnav's coat in normal water after rinsing it thrice.

She dashed to a nearby shop to purchase a packet of soap powder and a fabric bleach pouch, which she promptly added to the boiled water. Following the process, she removed the coat from the normal water, squeezed it thoroughly, and then immersed it in the boiled soapy water for thirty minutes. After ensuring the water was still hot, she removed the coat using the pliers, pleased to see that the bloodstain was almost gone. She briskly brushed it and hung it out to dry, making sure it was concealed from view.

After taking a quick bath, she had breakfast while keeping an eye on Arnav's coat. Then she headed off to school.

Her PET master was waiting for her. Seeing him, Khushi's expression turned grave.

She was well aware that he would inquire about the spike shoes for the state meet. What could she possibly say when she hadn't even broached the topic with her father? She refrained from asking her father because she knew it wasn't within his means. She had only managed to acquire a regular shoe last month after persistently asking her father for three months. How could she then turn around and request spikes immediately?

"Have you bought spikes, Khushi?"

"I'll purchase them within ten days, sir," she fibbed.

"Ten days? You have only one month until the state meet. How will you train with spikes in just twenty days? It's already late. There's no point in getting spikes after ten days."

"In that case, I'll run barefoot, just like I did in the district meet, sir."

"The state meet isn't a joke. The competition will be intense."

"I have more faith in my legs than in the spikes, sir."

The PET instructor sighed.

"Khushi, I am a temporary employee at this school. If I can earn enough, I will buy you the shoes."

"That's all right, sir. You are doing a lot for me. It's enough, sir."

"Keep one thing in mind, Khushi. This state meet will determine your future. If you win the race, you'll win at life. You can participate in the National meet... then you could secure a job through sports quota."

"I want to pursue a college education, sir."

"Then you'll secure a spot in a good college. You might even get good sponsorship. So, focus on the state meet. You have one month for the state meet. Each and every day of this month is crucial in your life. Make the most of it."

"Sure, sir..."

"Start practicing..."

Khushi nodded and intensified her training with more determination than before, determined to excel at the state meet and transform her life... The same state meet that was going to change her life upside down.

To be continued...

Part 3 The State Meet

Khushi was sincerely getting ready for the State meet. Her only motive was grabbing a medal in the meet. She was fully aware that achieving a medal at the State meet would be no easy feat and certainly not comparable to the district meet. Nevertheless, she was determined to emerge victorious. She continued her practice session barefoot, paying no attention to the need for spikes.

That day, she made the decision to conclude her practice earlier than usual in order to hide Arnav’s coat before Garima arrived home. only to hide Arnav’s coat. She had to go home before Garima reached. This would ensure that she could retrieve it without Garima noticing. Despite this distraction, she remained focused on her practice.

 

Meanwhile,

Arnav returned home and took a refreshing shower before donning his uniform and heading downstairs. He stiffened upon seeing his father enter the house. Arnav walked with a rigid face.

“How are you Chotte?” his father inquired.

With a silent nod, Arnav acknowledged him.

“I heard you admitted a boy to the hospital…” his father commented.

“So?” Arnav’s response was blunt.

“You are in twelfth standard. Rather than engaging in social work, you should concentrate on your studies. How could you expect to secure a place at Howard without obtaining high marks?” don’t score high marks?” Expressing his concern, his father remarked.

“When did I say I want to study in Howard?” Arnav retorted.

Arvind was taken aback.

“I’m not going anywhere… I will be in India. That’s final.” He stated firmly.

“Chotte…”

“I have to go to practice. Excuse me…”

“I would have felt proud if you played Cricket or Golf… Why are you getting dried on the track?”

“It’s because it's my passion. You can’t understand that. you always want everything up to your status. I won’t give a damn to it. I will do what I want. I will live my life as per my wish. You came here after a long… just do why you came here and leave”

“I came to meet you only. Your birthday is coming next month. WE decided to celebrate it grandly”

Arnav knew what that WE meant.

“I’m not available…”

“But why?”

“I will be busy with my events”

“Yeah, you have a SCHOOL STATE ATHLETIC MEET that day. Can’t you skip it for me?”

“Could you skip THAT house for me?”

Arvind moved a step back.

“You can’t give up anything for me but you want me to give up my passion for you?”

“Your Mom wants to celebrate your birthday grandly”

“I have no Mom…. My mom is dead” he shouted.

“Chotte, you are not a kid…”

Cutting him,

“Exactly… I’m not a kid. I can understand everything. So, it’s better if you stop irritating me… because I can’t say I can keep my tongue”

Arvind gulped hard. Arnav walked out of the house. The driver ran behind him who was waiting outside.

Arnav was about to open the door, but stopped hearing,

“You can drive the car, Chotte…! I will handle if any problem occurs” said Arvind.

Arnav looked at Mohan. He got into the car swiftly and started the car.

“Chotte…you can drive the car if you wish”

“I know when to drive a car… I will do that after my birthday”

“I just said because I know you like driving”

“Stop pretending like you are concerned for me”

“Of course, I’m…”

“I know how you are concerned…”

Arnav sat in the car and closed the door wrathfully. Mohan changed the gear and drove the car towards the Prince and Princess school.

 

P&P School

Lavanya was sitting with her friends making a face. She looked at her watch and said,

“Lunch break is going to be over”

“Lavanya, I told you ASR will be late. He said not to wait for him” Aman said.

“How could he say so? Doesn’t he know this is Lavanya’s birthday? Is the stranger boy more important than La?” Sheetal asked irritatingly, making Lavanya feel more bad.

“She is right. Sometimes, Arnav makes us feel like we are not important to him” Akash let out his disappointment.

“I don’t know why are you guys upset… he saved a life. Honestly, we should appreciate him for doing that” Aman said. 

“Yeah, he would have been upset for the whole day and spoilt our mood too. But now, he would be satisfied” NK said.

“He might have thought Lavanya’s birthday should not become a death day of someone…” Payal said.

“But, he made her cry on her birthday” Sheetal poutred oil in the fire, looking at Lavanya who wiped her cheek.

“Don’t cry Lavanya… this is your birthday” NK said.

Aman sighed.

That was when they saw Arnav coming. He stopped at the security room and asked for something. He gave him a parcel. Taking it he came to them. He extended it to Lavanya.

“Happy Birthday, Lavanya”

Lavanya took it silently.

“Are you all right?” Arnav asked.

“How could she be all right if you made her wait? She has not even cut the cake yet” Aman said.

“I told you not to wait for me”

“How could she cut the cake without you Arnav?” Payal asked.

“I was stuck, yaar… how could I come?”

“Am I not important to you?” Lavanya asked choking.

Arnav rolled his eyes and walked away. He didn’t want to be there as he was already upset with his father. He stood a little aloof from them to make himself up.

“Guys, why are you fussing him? He just came and you started… we should understand one thing. Arnav’s nature. He can’t hold himself if he sees others in pain. Don’t we know that? relax guys… Lavanya, come on cut the cake” Sheetal changed upside down and supported Arnav.

She pulled Lavanya and gestured to all of them. They gathered in front of Lavanya’s desk. Payal lit the candle on the cake. Sheetal went to Arnav and touched his shoulder.

“Don’t feel bad Arnav. don’t you know these guys? Just leave them. Come…”

“Thanks for understanding me, Sheetal” 

“Hey, who else will understand you if I don’t? Come on” she pulled him towards their gang.

Lavanya cut the cake and fed it to her friends. They too did the same. Lavanya came to Arnav and fed it to him while asking,

“Won’t you say sorry for making me wait?”

“Neither I did anything wrong nor did I make you wait. I went to save a boy’s life. I called Aman and said not to wait for me. Then why did you wait? You should have cut the cake and kept a piece for me”

“But, how…?”

Arnav stopped her showing his palm.

“Lavanya please, I’m already fussed. Don’t make me show it on you on your birthday” he walked out of the class.

“I don’t know why Arnav is behaving like this. How lovingly Lavanya asked him! Can’t he answer her softly?” Sheetal again played her card.

Lavanya again cried.

“Let me ask him” Sheetal went out.

She saw Arnav sitting under a tree. She came to him and sat next to him.

“What happened Arnav? you are not such kind as to hurt others…! I know you. what made you upset to this extent?”

“Nothing Sheetal,” Arnav left the place.

This was how Sheetal maintained a place in Arnav’s good book.

There were kinds of people who wouldn’t hesitate to pull others down to reach heights. Sheetal was that kind. She provoked other’s anger and made them talk against Arnav but in front of him, she supported him and made him believe she understood him than anyone.

 

………

Khushi secured Arnav’s coat in her locker. She didn’t know why she did that. Though she liked the coat, we could not say she did that only because she liked the coat.

She closed the locker, hearing a noise from outside. It was Garima’s voice.

“I will try to give you money in two days, Bhai Sab,” she said.

Khushi came out and saw with whom she was talking. She gulped down hard as he was a wholesale egg seller. Shashi bought eggs from him as he would offer eggs at a low price. It was for Khushi. She needed high protein to gain stamina. So, her PET instructor insisted she eat AT LEAST two eggs daily. That was the only expense her father spent for her.

Khushi sighed. She had to win a medal in the State meet. If she had won, she could get a chance to attend the National meet.

 

The most awaited State meet came…

That was Arnav’s birthday too. Arnav was on the field. His friends were also there. Though Sheetal and Aman were also athletes, they were not participants. They were there to cheer up Arnav and also to celebrate his birthday. 

Arnav was not with his friends as he didn’t want to be distracted. He was warming up behind the stadium. He would participate in a four-hundred-meter running race and Khushi would run in a two-hundred-meter race. Arnav’s event came first. He ran in the HEAT and came second.  That disappointed him. if he could not get first place in HEAT, he could not win in the upcoming rounds. It would be more tough. He went behind the stadium to exercise.

Two hundred meters girls’ heat started. Khushi stood on the track barefoot with girls who were wearing spikes and costly accessories stylishly.

People looked at her weirdly. She didn’t care about it. There was nothing in her mind. She didn’t see anything other than her track. She sharpened her ears to hear

ON YOUR MARKS…

She was on her mark and GOT SET to GO. She ran like a bullet released from a gun beating all the girls competing with her and touched the finishing line FIRST.

To be continued…

 

 Part 4 Barefoot girl

Khushi touched the finishing line, getting sky-level applause and many WOWs from the audience. She heard that but she didn’t know the reason because she was not used to looking back while running. It was because she completed the race with a two-meter gap and it was not a simple thing in the State meet even though it was a fuser round. She was glad as she reached the next round. She came to her PET master. He appreciated her by tapping her shoulder.

 

“Good Khushi…! Let’s go… take a rest after warming down” He didn’t tell her about the lead she had in the race as he didn’t want her to be relaxed. That might affect her performance in the upcoming round.

 

“Yes, sir” Khushi simply said. She didn’t ask him about her performance. She knew if there was something to say, her master himself would tell her that.

 

Her master took her little away from the track. He didn’t want her to watch others race which might make her tense. He made her mind relaxed.

 

On the other side, Arnav was getting ready for the second round by doing exercises behind the stadium. He stopped hearing, other schoolboys talking,

 

“I didn’t expect she would win the race with such a lead”

 

“I didn’t even think she would win with barefoot”

 

BAREFOOT? Arnav frowned.

 

“Isn’t she looking fresh and beautiful?”

 

“Indeed”

 

They crossed him.

 

After a few events, Arnav’s event came. He went to the track. He again got second place. The guy who got the first in the first round came first again.

 

Arnav looked at him, pressing his hands on his knees, panting hard, sweating badly. As usual, his friends cheered him up. He again went to his place to continue his work.

 

Likewise, Khushi also got first place effortlessly in the second round and started attracting people. People who had well knowledge about TRACK events wondered about Khushi.

Both reached the semi-finals. Khushi was focusing on her track, while Arnav was highly disappointed with his performance. He could not beat the guy who continuously got first place in all the rounds. He could not beat him no matter how hard he tried. So, he decided to concentrate on STARTING. If he missed the starting, again the guy would come first. He wanted to beat him… how…! He should do that to shut his father’s mouth. He could be stopped only if he won the race.

 

As Arnav planned, he gave a good START and came first but with a minute difference. That made the guy disappointed. He left the track, throwing a content look at Arnav.

 

Arnav was relieved because he got the courage that the guy was not unbeatable. So, he concentrated on the final.

The winners list of the semifinals was announced. Arnav’s name was told but Khushi didn’t hear it clearly as she was a little away from the stadium. When she heard Arnav’s name in a low tone, she jerked. She was not sure what she heard was right. Even though she was right, she didn’t think he was the same Arnav she met in the hospital.

 

“Nannav, you won first in the semifinals… you are great” NK said hugging him.

 

“Why not? He is Arnav Singh Raizada after all” Lavanya said smiling brightly.

 

“ASR, as you won in the semifinals, let’s cut the cake and celebrate your birthday,” Aman said.

 

“We will do it after the final race,” Arnav said.

 

“However, you will win, ASR”

 

“Of course, I will…! I have no mood to cut the cake now” Arnav said strictly.

 

Aman sighed. He knew Arnav. If he didn’t win first prize in the final, Arnav would be upset. Then they could not ask him to cut the cake. Arnav would surely leave the place throwing his spikes.

 

“Let me do a workout,” he said firmly.

 

Aman gestured for his friends to leave the place.

 

That was when the semifinal for the girls’ two-hundred-meter race was announced.

 

“Let’s go and watch the girls’ semi-finals” NK rushed to the track.

 

Others followed him. They stood in the middle of the track.

 

That was when, they heard, someone, saying,

 

“She came first in all the rounds with barefoot”

 

“Yeah, did you see her speed…! She is just wow!”

 

As they were in the middle of the track, they didn’t know about whom they were talking. They could not see the starting point because the track had been surrounded by the students.

 

The race started. They waited for the girl barefoot. They saw a girl with no shoes crossing them with a good lead.

 

Khushi won first in the semifinal. As it was a semifinal, almost everyone in the tournament was gathered around the track to see the race, including Arnav’s friend. Arnav was the only one not there as he was working out for the final.

 

Aman and NK wondered to see the girl winning the race barefoot. They ran to the finishing point to know about the girl but her PET master submitted her details to the tournament authorities.

 

“Wait, the winners will be announced by the authorities,” Aman said.

 

NK nodded yes.

 

They heard the winner’s name, Khushi Kumari Gupta, from the government Higher Secondary school, Indira Nagar, Delhi.

 

“Indira Nagar?” They both said in the same tone and looked at each other.

 

“It’s near our school area,” NK said.

 

Aman nodded yes.

 

“But, I never seen her” NK said.

 

“It’s because we have different school timings… our school starts at 8:30 and her school starts at 9:30”

 

“Yeah, but where would she practice?”

 

“Maybe, on the school grounds”

 

“Does her school have a playground?”

 

“Who knows?”

 

………..

 

Arnav appeared on the track when they called the finalists. Arnav knew the competition would be tough like hell. The guy who lost the first place would try to get it again in full swing. The guy would follow his trick. He would try to give a good start to the race. He should be faster than him. then only he could think about winning the race. Arnav thought.

Arnav’s concentration was completely on the track. There was nothing in his mind other than the winning point. His friends continuously cheered him up. They didn’t stand together. All of them stood alone giving gradual gaps to encourage Arnav all the way to the winning point.

The race started. Arnav gave a better start to the race than the previous round. So, he took the lead. If he had taken the lead, he would have won the race. That was what happened there. Arnav won the Gold medal with a decent lead this time. His friends celebrated him like ever before.

 

This time, Khushi heard the announcement CLEARLY. Arnav Singh Raizada from Prince and Princess School won the Gold medal in the four-hundred-meter race. She wondered. Was he an athlete? Did he see her running? She was not sure. A slight nervousness budded in her heart. Could she win in the final? If he had been there, his school also would have participated in the tournament. She knew how arrogant they were. She made up herself. She should win the final. She should not give up her courage. Taking a deep breath, she made herself ready for the race.

 

“Now, let’s cut the cake…” Arnav said.

 

Exactly at the same time, they heard the announcement of the two-hundred-meter finals. Aman and NK looked at each other and said,

 

“ASR, we will cut the cake after the girls’ two-hundred-meter race”

 

Arnav raised his brows. Didn’t they hurry to make him cut the cake? Then why did they want to watch the finals of a two-hundred-meter race?

 

“Anything special?”

 

“Yeah… a girl with barefoot is rocking”

 

“Barefoot?” Arnav remembered the boys’ talks.

 

“Yes… she is beyond the imagination. She is the talk of the tournament”

 

“She attracted people with her barefoot. What’s there to be wondered?” Sheetal thought.

 

“Let’s watch the race, ASR”

“Okkkk…”

 

They came to the track. Arnav moved forward to see the Barefoot girl. He heard boys talking about her but he didn’t expect her to reach finals because being an athlete, he knew how hard it was to reach the final. He came to the starting point, noticing the girl’s foot. He saw her standing on the second track facing her back to him. He recalled the boys saying that she looked fresh and beautiful. He could not see her face. He ran to see her face but before that, Khushi ran like an arrow shot from the bow, hearing a CLAP sound.

 

To be continued…

Part 5 MEET in the Sports MEET

 

Arnav stood awestruck, looking at the girl’s super-speed START. He rushed to the finishing point to see the girl curiously. As everyone expected, she was the Gold medal winner. When Arnav reached the finishing point, he saw her being surrounded by the boys and girls. They were congratulating her by shaking hands with her. Khushi accepted them smiling between her hard breaths.

 

Arnav saw the girl and was lost. She was truly fresh and beautiful even though she was sweating badly. He frowned. He had seen her somewhere else. Where did he see her?

 

Khushi’s smile vanished for a few seconds and her facial expression changed when she saw Arnav gaping at her. Arnav noticed it. She turned her face immediately. That wondered him. Why did she react that way seeing him? She was free with others, so why did she show a difference with him? Did she know him? He saw her stealing his glance. That not only worried him but also confused him. Yet, he smiled because he found it cute.

 

The winners of the two-hundred-meter race were announced. Arnav was curious to know the name of the girl. The officials announced the Gold medal winner’s name was Khushi Kumari Gupta. KHUSHI… his lips murmured.

 

Slowly the crowd dispersed. Khushi looked at him once and left the place. She might have expected him to congratulate her. As he delayed a few seconds, she walked from there.

 

“Khushi…” Arnav ran to her.

 

Khushi looked at him turning behind.

 

“Congratulations…” he extended his hand towards her.

 

She looked at his hand and then at his face hesitatingly. She didn’t know why she could not shake hands with him just like she did with others. Arnav raised his brows. She clutched his hand for a formality but Arnav gripped her palm tight and shook it confidently.

 

“Thanks”

 

“I’m Arnav…”

 

“I’m Khushi”

 

“You are just awesome…”

 

Khushi smiled awkwardly as Arnav hadn’t left her hand yet.

That was when she heard her master calling her.

 

“Khushiiii…”

 

Khushi pulled her hand from his clutch and moved back. She looked behind and then at him. Arnav gazed at her reaction. She spilled an awkward smile and left.

 

Arnav stood there for a while thinking about where he had seen her before. He could not remember because he just glanced at her the other day in the hospital. Arnav moved backwards squeezing her brain.

 

Arnav saw his friends waiting for him.

 

“Let’s cut the cake ASR”

 

Arnav nodded, looking in the direction where Khushi went.

 

Lavanya and Payal removed the cake from the box. NK and Aman held it from either side as they had no table to keep the cake. Sheetal gave him a knife. They didn’t light the candle as it was the open ground. It would not be easy to light a candle in the air.

 

Arnav did cut the cake. His friends sang Happy Birthday to you…! That grabbed people’s attention. Khushi also looked at them. She wondered. Was this Arnav’s birthday? She felt bad for not wishing him. At the same time, their celebration showed her how RICH they were. She became hesitant. They were like a stars in the sky. She could just admire them. She got ready to receive the medal. She could be called anytime.

 

Arnav ate the cake fed by his friends.

 

“Thank God, today is a tournament day. That’s why Arnav’s concentration is not distracted. Or else, he would have gone to save someone’s life just like how he went to the hospital on my birthday” Lavanya said unaware of the truth that he was already distracted.

 

Arnav rolled his eyes gulping the cake. He got stuck. How was the boy saved by him? He gave his phone number to the boy’s father but they didn’t call him for anything. He recalled the day’s happenstance. His eyes sparkled. Didn’t the girl he saw in the hospital resemble Khushi? Or, the girl was Khushi herself? Was she related to the boy? Was she the sister of the boy? Was that the reason she REACTED that way seeing him?

Taking the knife, he cut the cake into a big size piece. He snatched the paper plate from NK’s hand. He kept the cake piece on the plate and walked.

 

“Where are you running, Arnav?” Lavanya asked.

 

“Will just come…”

 

“Shall we come?”

 

“STRICT NO” he came searching for Khushi.

 

His friends spared a confused glance.

 

He saw her drinking water from a water bottle as she didn’t drink water after the race. He came to her and called.

 

“Khushiiii”

 

Khushi almost spat the water and coughed as she understood who called her.

 

“Hey, relax…” he said.

 

She looked at Arnav with wide-open eyes unbelievably. He extended the cake plate to her. Khushi looked at the plate and then at him.

 

“Today is my birthday,” he said.

 

“Oh… happy birthday”

 

“Thank you”

He extended the plate, shaking his head like take it. Khushi took the plate.

 

“Thanks”

 

“We met already… Do you remember?”

 

Khushi was stuck. Did he remember her? She nodded yes.

 

“Are you their relative?”

 

“No… I just guided them to the hospital.”

 

“Oh… Don’t you know the boy?”

 

“I know him. he studies in our school only”

 

“Oh… how is he?”

 

“He is fine. He started coming to the school long ago”

 

“That’s nice to hear.” Arnav noticed her wearing normal shoes.

“May I ask you something?”

 

Khushi nodded slightly.

 

“When you have shoes, why did you run barefoot?”

 

Khushi was stuck. How could she tell him that the bottom of her new shoes was already broken and she pasted it with glue? Seemingly it was shoes but not.

 

“I’m not used to participating in races with shoes” she lied.

“Really?” he wondered.

 

She nodded yes.

 

“Do you have a paper?”

 

“Paper?” she nodded no.

 

He saw a referee crossing them with a pad.

 

“Sir, excuse, me”

 

“Yes…”

 

“Can I get a piece of paper, sir?”

 

“Yeah…” he gave him a piece of paper.

 

“One minute,” he said to Khushi and went to him.

 

Taking it from him, he wrote his phone number and gave the pen back to him.

 

“Thank you, sir”

 

The referee left the place.

 

“This is my phone number…” he extended the paper to Khushi.

 

She looked at him perplexed.

 

“I didn’t bring my card. You can ask me anything if you want”

Khushi parted her lips embarrassingly. She knew why he gave her his number. He wanted to help her she supposed. She nodded no.

 

“But why?”

 

“I don’t want anything…”

 

“As of now, you may not want anything. just keep my card. If you want anything, just remember me”

 

She gulped down. This was so awkward.

 

“No thanks…” She looked down.

 

Arnav took a step and tucked the paper in the gap between her hand and the cake plate.

 

“Please don’t take me wrong… you are so talented. That’s why I wanted to help you. nothing more than that” He sighed and left the place.

 

Khushi’s eyes tear up. She didn’t dare to look at him. Her respect for him increased tenfold. She smiled at the cake given by Arnav and ate it. She was dumbfounded. She never tasted such cake in her life. It melted immediately touching her tongue. The cake itself told her Arnav’s STANDARD. She felt proud of him. Though he was a RICH guy, his heart was so soft. She thought.

 

……….

Arnav’s friends looked at him who came smilingly.

 

“Where did you go?”

 

“Nowhere…”

 

Arnav nodded his head from left to right as he didn’t like to share with them about Khushi because they would not like him being friendly with a poor girl like her.

 

“To whom did you give the cake?”

 

“To the referee…”

 

“Referee?”

 

“Mmm…”

 

They spared a glance. Taking a piece of cake Arnav stuffed it in his mouth casually, to avoid answering them.

 

………

The winners of the boys’ four-hundred-meter race and girl’s two-hundred-meter race were called. Khushi and Arnav headed to the podium. They shared a friendly smile.

 

Arnav received the medal first. He smiled at Khushi while receiving it. he waited until she received her medal. He again congratulated her.

 

“Thank you”

 

“Don’t forget to call me”

 

She smiled.

 

“Bye”

She nodded and left the place. Arnav stood looking at her retreating figure.

 

To be continued…

 

Part 6 Khushi’s Fear

 

Arnav stood, looking at Khushi. He turned around, sensing a touch on his shoulder. He saw his friends standing.

 

“What did you tell her, ASR?”

 

“Just congratulate her”

 

“Oh…”

 

“What’s there to congratulate her?” Sheetal asked as she could not tolerate someone taking a place in Arnav’s good book.

 

“What do you mean?” Arnav shrank his eyes.

 

“I mean you are also a Gold medal winner. According to you, it’s not a big deal”

 

“According to me, it may not a big deal but for Khushi, it is…! Being a sports personality, don’t you know how hard it is to win a medal in the State meet without needed facilities? She doesn’t even have shoes, damn it… I didn’t expect this from you”

 

Sheetal cursed herself for talking idiotic.

 

“No no… I didn’t mean it. instead of congratulating her, you should have helped her to buy shoes…” She managed and saw Arnav’s face softened.

 

“Yeah, I should have…” he didn’t say, he gave her his number.

 

“Let’s go ASR”

They walked out. Arnav saw his driver Mohan waiting for him. Arnav extended his hand towards him. Mohan looked at him not understanding.

 

“Key…” Arnav asked.

 

Mohan hesitated.

 

“I’m nineteen now… I can drive”

 

Mohan gave him the car key. Arnav sat in the driver’s seat and started the car. His friends occupied the seats. He dropped the girls at their places and looked at his friends.

 

“Shall I drop you guys?”

 

“Nannav… you have started driving the car too…”

 

“It’s because I became a MAJOR today”

 

“So, you are eligible to do anything that an adult does,”

 

“So?”

 

“What about a PEG?”

 

Arnav looked at him shockingly.

 

“You mean alcohol?”

 

NK nodded yes.

 

“Why not we just taste it?”

 

“No… a big no”

 

“Why Nannav? You have no one to question you… definitely your father won’t dare…”

 

“I don’t want to drink not just because I’m not answerable to anyone. I don’t want to drink because I don’t like it. Just because I have money, just because I can do anything, I won’t do anything which could spoil my health and reputation…”

 

NK sighed and said,

 

“You are spoiling RICH BOY’s rules…”

 

“What do you mean by Rich boys’ rules? Should rich boys not be nice and disciplined?”

 

They looked at each other.

 

“Yeah… why not?” Aman smiled.

 

“I don’t want us to be in the circle of rich boys”

 

“Won’t we get a treat?”

 

“Why not? Let’s go to the restaurant”

 

“That’s great…”

 

“Before that, I have to take a bath. I badly need one”

 

Arnav started the car and headed to RM. After taking a bath, he took his friends to the restaurant.

 

“Order what you want and eat as much as you can,” Arnav said.

They ordered their favourite food and had their stomach full. Arnav got the bill. It was nine thousand five hundred. He never minded about the money he spent but then, he didn’t know why he thought about Khushi’s barefoot when he settled the bill. A girl could not afford shoes, but some people didn’t mind spending thousands of dollars on dinner. He felt bad about it. he didn’t know such a lifestyle existed.

 

Arnav started practising for the National meet, whereas Khushi was sad as her school principal didn’t agree to send her to the National meet because it would be held in Bengaluru. He said he could not spend a few thousand for a single girl. Her PET master tried his level best but he could not change his mind.

 

“No, chance. I agree she won the state medal but the National meet will have tough competition. She can’t win…”

 

“She will, sir... because she had an excellent lead in the state meet”

 

“Ok, I will send her if her father is ready to share half of the expense,” The Principal said.

 

“Sir, she could not even afford shoes…”

 

“What can do about it? There are only a few months for the Board Exams. Ask her to prepare for it. She will get a good job… studies are most important. She could do nothing with her gold medal if she didn’t pass the exams”

 

“She studied well, sir”

 

“Then, ask her to score good marks”

 

The PET master felt helpless. He came out of his room all disappointed.

 

Khushi was more disappointed when she got to know his denial.

“Ask your father once, Khushi”

 

Khushi nodded no.

 

“I know my family’s condition, sir. I can’t ask my father”

 

“Then, what are you going to do?”

 

”Going to prepare for my exams,” she said sadly.

 

“We can’t even get a sponsor as this is just a State meet. Companies will give sponsor only if you are a National Gold medalist” he said sadly.

 

Khushi was silent.

 

“I thought someone would like to sponsor you seeing running with a barefoot” He sighed.

 

Khushi could not hold herself from thinking about Arnav. Didn’t he ask her to ask for any help? But, how could she ask him for help? What if he just said that as a courtesy? No doubt, he was a kind guy but she should not forget that he was a rich guy...! What if he insulted her? More than that, Shashi might feel inferior if she went to Arnav for help. She could not let her father feel low. People might also talk rubbish about them. She gave up the idea of seeking Arnav’s help.

 

Khushi didn’t tell Shashi about the National meet and started, concentrating on her exams. Her only aim was to score good marks in the board exams. It didn’t mean there was no pain in her heart about the National meet. Yet, she didn’t bring it to her mind.

On the other side, Arnav was excited to meet Khushi at the National meet. There was no chance for him to know the real scenario. He didn’t expect a principal would deny sending her to the National meet. So, he wanted to present shoes and Spikes to her. He saw her FOOT and guessed her shoe size. He bought shoes and spikes for Khushi and came to her school to meet her.

 

He waited for her but he could not see her. He didn’t know if he could enter the school as he thought her school would also be like HIS school with the same rules and regulations. He was fed up not meeting her.

 

Arnav’s face brightened seeing the boy he admitted to the hospital. he rushed to him.

 

“Hi…” he smiled.

 

The boy looked at his tip-to-toe. He didn’t know who he was. After all, he was unconscious when Arnav admitted him to the hospital.

“How are you feeling now?”

 

The boy nodded his head with confusion.

 

”I’m the one who admitted you to the hospital”

 

The boy smiled brightly.

 

“Hello, Bhaiya… thank you so much”

 

“You are welcome… are you all right now?”

 

“Jee… I’m all right. You here?”

 

“I came to meet Khushi Gupta”

 

“Oh… Gold medal Didi…”

 

Khushi’s school students started addressing her Gold Medal didi.

 

“Yeah, she won a Gold medal in the State meet. I want to meet her”

 

“Wait I will bring her”

 

Arnav nodded ok. The boy was supposed to run, but stopped hearing,

 

“One minute…”

 

He looked at Arnav.

 

“What’s your name?”

 

“My name is Ashok. Studying in the Sixth standard, C section”

 

“Oh… what about Khushi?”

 

“She studies in Twelfth standard, D section”

 

“Ok, I will wait here”

 

Khushi who came to the school saw Arnav standing, leaning on a car, outside her school. She looked here and there. She doubted he was there to meet her. she was embarrassed to see him there. She hid in the nearby shop and watched him.

 

She saw Ashok rushing.

 

“She has not come to the school yet”

 

“Oh… could you ask her to call me?”

 

“Sure”

 

Arnav gave him his card. Ashok took it from him.

 

“Tell her I came to meet her”

 

“Ok…”

 

Arnav removed a five hundred note and gave it to Ashok.

 

“Keep it”

 

“Is it for me?” his face lightened.

 

Arnav nodded yes.

 

“Thank you so much”

 

“Don’t forget to ask Khushi to call me”

 

 

“I will make her call you”

 

“Thank you”

 

Arnav left the place. Khushi waited until his car vanished from her sight. She walked to the school as if she didn’t know anything.

 

Ashok rushed to her smilingly.

 

“Didi, someone gave you his card” he extended Arnav’s card.

 

“I know anyone,” Khushi said and walked.

 

“But, he knows you, Didi. Please call him once”

 

Khushi snatched the card and tore it into pieces.

 

To be continued…

 

Part 7 Avoidance

 

“Didi, someone gave you his card” Ashok extended Arnav’s card.

 

“I don’t know anyone,” Khushi said and walked.

 

“But he knows Didi. Please call him once”

 

Khushi snatched the card and tore it into pieces. Ashok was shocked.

 

“Why did you tear it, Didi?”

 

“I don’t want to call him. That’s all”

 

“You know he was the one who was admitted to the hospital”

Ashok said excitedly.

 

Khushi was silent.

 

“You should have known that because you were with my parents that day, right?”

 

“Look Ashok, you are a small boy. You won’t understand…”

 

“Didi, I think he wants to help you”

 

“Maybe, but people will bad-mouth me if I get his help. I don’t want his help. My father will not send me to college if someone says something about me. Don’t disturb me. if he comes again, don’t talk to him… please…” she walked off.

 

Ashok felt bad for Arnav and Khushi. He decided not to tell Arnav

everything Khushi said.

 

Evening / RM

 

Throwing his coat Arnav on the couch, loosening his tie. He smiled seeing his Dog running towards him. It pounced on him. In no time, Arnav took it in his arms. It was a Chihuahua breed dog. It was a Mexican breed of toy dog. Looked compact. Arnav kissed it lovingly. It was not just a pet but Arnav’s only solace in RM. It was his companion. He went home only for Burger… yeah, that was his name.

 

“Hariprakash…”

 

“Jee, Arnav Baba” HP ran out of the kitchen.

 

“Did Burger eat?”

 

“Jee… I served him Pedigree this noon”

 

“Bring meat for him tomorrow…”

 

“Jee…”

 

“Bring me something. I’m hungry.”

 

“Jee…”

 

“I will come getting fresh”

 

“Jee” HP went to the kitchen.

 

Arnav walked to his room with his bag and Burger followed him. Arnav got fresh and came downstairs. Again Burger followed him. Arnav had bread and omelettes. HP served boiled eggs for the Burger.

 

Arnav stood up after having bread and omelettes.

 

“Burger, let’s go for a walk” Arnav chained it up and took it with him.

 

It was his regular routine after coming from school. Burger was part of his life.

 

The next day

 

Arnav came to Khushi’s school to meet her. He was so confident that Ashok would have told her about his visit. He waited for both Ashok and Khushi. Khushi came to the school earlier as she had a special class that day. Ashok saw Arnav waiting. He made up himself and came to him.

 

“Hi, Baiya…”

 

“Hi, did you tell Khushi about my visit?” Arnav asked.

 

“Yeah, I told her. She asked why you wanted to meet her”

 

“I would like to help her to participate in the National meet.”

 

“Oh… that’s the matter…! She already got someone’s help”

 

“Is it?”

 

“Yes, someone who saw her performance in the State meet is ready to help her it seems…”

 

“Oh…”

 

“Yes, she is busy because she is busy with her exams also. She was struggling to manage her schedule. That’s why she could not meet you”

 

“That’s ok… I’m happy someone is ready to help her”

 

Arnav removed the shoes and spikes he brought for Khushi. He gave them to Ashok.

 

“Give them to her… ask her to accept them at least”

 

“Don’t worry, Bhaiya. I will give them to her”

 

“Thanks…”

 

Ashok entered the school bidding bye to Arnav. Arnav was happy as he believed someone was helping Khushi. At the same time, he felt bad because he was late in helping her. However, she would participate in the National meet. As of now, it was enough. He was satisfied.

 

…

 

Khushi came out of her class with Preeto as the special class was over. She saw Ashok sitting in the corridor. He rushed towards her with a paper bag.

 

“Didi, Arnav Baiya gave it for you” he forwarded the bag to her.

Khushi looked at her surroundings.

 

“Who was Arnav?” Preeto asked.

 

“Didn’t I say?” Khushi said in a low tone.

 

“Oh… the state meet guy…!”

 

Khushi nodded yes.

 

Preethi took the bag from Ashok and looked in it.

 

“Shoes and spikes…” She said.

 

Khushi snatched the bag and checked the size. She wondered as it was her size.

 

“How did he know your size?”

 

Khushi nodded her head from left to right.

 

“He wants to help Didi but she doesn’t want”

 

Preethi looked at her with disappointment.

 

“What did you tell him?” Preethi asked.

 

“I said Khushi didi got someone’s help. So, she didn’t need his help”

 

Preethi rolled his eyes.

 

“Ok, Ashok, you go,” Preethi said.

Ashok left the place.

 

“What the hell did you do, Khushi?”

 

“What do you want me to do then? Our principal was not ready to send me to the National meet. My father was not capable of spending half of the expense to send me to the National meet. What can I do then?”

 

“It seems he is ready to help you. you could have asked him, Khushi”

 

Khushi nodded no and walked.

 

“But why?”

 

“I don’t know what will he think about me. What if he EXPECTS something from me?”

 

Preeto was stuck. She could not oppose Khushi because it was a sensitive matter.

 

“You may be right. Nowadays, no one would help without expecting anything” Preeto sighed.

 

Khushi was silent. She didn’t know why she thought so. It was because Arnav was a rich guy. Of course, he admitted Ashok to the hospital. It didn’t mean he would help her with pure intention. Being a poor girl, she didn’t want to trust anyone blindly. It was not just a matter of today but would affect her future too. She didn’t want to get into trouble.

 

She might console Shashi but Garima. She would not allow her to go to the college if her name had been damaged. She had to go to the college to get ANOTHER chance. She would get it only if she went to the college. She was firm about it.

…..

 

On the other side, Arnav concentrated on the National meet. He had no pressure like Khushi had. However, he was going to take over his father’s business. So, he was always on the ground practising even though he didn’t believe he would win in the National meet.

 

Arnav was so excited as the National meet was closing up. he was more excited to see Khushi’s race.

 

 

National Meet

 

Arnav searched for Khushi in the Delhi region students’ crew. But, he was disappointed not to see Khushi in the meet. He was sure that Khushi would have won a medal if she had participated even though he could not win. None from Delhi won a medal. Arnav didn’t bother about it but about only Khushi. He didn’t know why she didn’t attend the National meet. Didn’t Ashok say, she got someone’s help? Then why didn’t she come to the meet? What happened to her? Was she all right? He was restless.

 

To be continued…

 

Part 8 College

 

Arnav had not regretted not winning the media in the National meet but he regretted that Khushi didn't participate in the meet because he believed that Khushi would definitely win a medal. Her absence disappointed him.

 

On the other side,

 

Preeto saw Khushi sitting under a tree keeping a book in her hand. She should be studying for their next revision exam, she supposed. She came to Khushi and touched her shoulder. Khushi looked at her and then again looked at the book. Preeto was shocked because, Khushi was crying, keeping the book in her hand.

 

"Khushi..."

 

Khushi bit her lip to control her sob.

 

"Khushi, are you crying?" Preeto sat next to her.

 

In no time, Khushi hugged Preeto and cried.

 

"Khushi, what's this? Why are you crying?"

 

"It's National meet today... Do you know how hard it is to win a medal in the state meet? It's hell tough...but I did it with bare feet. I'm an unlucky person not to participate in the National meet" She choked.

 

"This is not done, Khushi. That rich boy wanted to help you but you avoided him. If you had accepted his help, you would have participated in the National meet today. You denied him then and crying now"

 

Khushi was silent. Preeto was not wrong. She had reasons to avoid Arnav but after doing that, she regretted it every day.

 

Khushi sat straight.

 

"You know Preeto, getting spikes was my dream. I never thought it would come true but it came true..."

 

"Yet, you missed it," Preeto said disappointedly.

 

Khushi wiped her face and stood up. Preeto looked at her perplexed.

 

"Leave it Preeto. The National meet is over. There is no use talking about it anymore" She walked away leaving perplexed Preeto.

 

 

Two days later

 

Preeto was heading to the school. She saw Ashok hiding behind a tree and looking at the main gate of the School. She saw a rich guy waiting there. She doubted he should be Arnav. It was not hard for her to understand, for whom he was waiting. She went to Ashok and tapped his shoulder. He looked at her jerking and huffed in relief seeing Preeto.

 

"Why are you hiding here?"

 

"Shhh...Look at there..." he pointed at Arnav.

 

"I am getting smashed between him and Khushi didi"

 

Preeto looked at Arnav controlling her smile.

 

"Khushi didi is not ready to meet him and he is not ready to leave her. Both are kicking me here and there like a football" he said wearily.

 

"Don't worry. I will handle him. come with me"

 

"Really? Thank God... Let's go" he came out.

 

"Be casual..." Preeto instructed.

 

Ashok straightened himself and walked slightly hopping.

 

"Don't overreact..." Preeto tapped his head.

 

Ashok grinned and walked politely. Arnav saw him and beckoned him. Ashok nagged Preeto and showed her Arnav. Preeto walked to Arnav with Ashok.

 

"Where is Khushi?" Arnav asked Ashok.

 

Before Ashok answered to him, Preeto asked,

 

"Who are you? Why are you asking about Khushi?"

 

Without answering her, Arnav looked at Ashok.

 

"He is Arnav bhaiya. He is the one who admitted me to the hospital when I met with an accident. He wanted to help Khushi Didi"

 

"Oh... Is that you?"

 

Arnav nodded.

 

"Nice to meet you"

 

"Why didn't Khushi participate in the National meet? I expected her in Bangalore"

 

"She was unable to attend the meet"

 

"But why? Didn't you say she got a sponsor?" He asked Ashok.

 

"Yes, someone was ready to sponsor her but her bad luck, he passed away..." Preeto lied.

 

"Whaaaat?" He was shocked.

 

Preeto nodded yes.

 

"She was fed up. You know how much she cried?"

 

"I gave her my number... I think she missed it" Arnav said.

 

"However, she missed the chance. There is nothing to talk about it. Thank you for your concern" Preeto said.

 

Arnav removed his card.

 

"This is my card. You can call me if Khushi needs any help"

 

"Sure... Thank you" She took the card from him and walked.

 

Arnav felt bad for Khushi because he believed the story told by Preeto.

 

Preeto came to Khushi and gave Arnav's card to her.

 

"Arnav came and inquired about you. Poor him felt bad for not seeing you in the National meet"

 

As usual, Khushi tore the card. Preeto didn't react to it because she already noted Arnav's number.

 

"As of now, I have nothing in my mind other than our exams"

 

"Oh... That's why you are still practising every morning?" Preeto asked seriously.

 

Khushi glared at her.

 

"Your father told me when I went to his shop..."

 

"I just don't want to leave the touch"

 

"Mmm," Preeto smiled.

 

 

Everyone started concentrating on their exams. The exams were over. Students waited for their results whereas, Khushi continued her practices because she wanted to become comfortable with spikes and she did it.

 

The exam results were declared. Khushi passed with distinction and applied for three courses in the government college.

 

That was when her PET master came to her house. Khushi welcomed him. Shashi and Garima greeted him joining their hands.

 

"Congratulations Khushi"

 

"Thank you, sir"

 

"Did you apply for graduation?"

 

"Yes, sir... I applied for three courses in the government college"

 

"What about your sports passion?"

 

Khushi looked at him plainly.

 

"Are you going to quit sports?"

 

Khushi nodded no hurriedly.

 

"Then join the college in which you have opportunities"

 

"Which college, sir?" Shashi asked.

 

"St. John's College gives preference and lifts up sports personalities with pride. The principal of St. John's College feels proud to have sports talents in his college. Khushi will easily get a free seat in the college. She can eat anything in the college canteen because the college will provide free tokens to the sports personalities. She will get sponsored too..."

 

Shashi looked at Khushi with hope who looked overwhelmed.

 

"I want you to join the college, Khushi"

 

"As you say, sir," Shashi said.

 

"Apply online... Mention you are a state gold medalist"

 

Khushi nodded ok.

 

"All the best"

 

"Thank you, sir"

 

"Don't delay. Do it today itself"

 

"Ok, sir"

 

The PET master took their leave.

 

Garima saw Khushi thinking deeply.

 

"What are you thinking?"

 

"St. John's College is one of the reputed colleges in Delhi. I thought I could manage with my old clothes but my clothes are not so good for St. John's College" she said sadly.

 

Garima thought for a while. She went inside and came with a few sarees. She kept them in front of Khushi. Khushi dropped her jaw.

 

"Do you want me to drape sarees to the college?"

 

Garima nodded no.

 

"I will stitch them modernly"

 

Khushi bit her nail gulping down. She knew Garima would stitch well but she didn't believe it would be up to St. John's standard However, she had no choice other than to wear those dresses. She could not afford new clothes. She made up herself but when Garima stitched them, Khushi kissed her cheek with a tight hug. They looked awesome. She selected a grape colour full gown for the first day of college. Yes, Khushi got a free seat in St. John's College as her PET master said.

 

Khushi took blessings from her parents and got ready for college. Preeto waited for her who got a payment seat in St. John's College. She joined there only for Khushi which made her glad and relief.

 

They reached the college and went to their class following the sign boards. They came to the B.Com class.

 

Khushi's facial expression changed, and she saw Arnav sitting in her class, smiling at her.

 

To be continued...

 

 Part 9 Classmates

Khushi was thunderstruck to see Arnav in her class, smiling at her. There was no surprise in his face to see her. He smiled, seeing Khushi’s expression. She widened her eyes and blinked her eyes tilting her face.

“Hi, Champion…” he smiled.

All the students looked at her, making her embarrassed. She smiled awkwardly.

Only two of his friends were there with him. She didn’t know their names.

She searched for a place for her and Preeto. She found the third bench empty. She walked with Preeto and sat on the bench. Preeto leaned towards Khushi and asked,

“Khushi, you denied taking his help because no one should think of you wrong. Now, he is in our class. How will you avoid him?”

Khushi looked at her gulping down. She too didn’t know how Arnav ended up in her class. She wanted to avail the privileges given by the college. So, she joined in that college. But, wasn’t he a RICH guy? Then why did he get admission to this college? She bit her nail. She pulled her hand down when she saw Arnav smiling at her. She was on the third bench in the left row. Arnav was on the second bench in the centre row.

Khushi looked down when Arnav came to her.

“Hi…we became classmates now” he extended his hand towards her.

Khushi hesitatingly clutched his hand and Arnav shook hands with her. Khushi felt like all the eyes were on them. His friends came to them.

“Hi…” Arnav smiled at Preeto.

“Hi, how are you?” She asked.

“Yeah, good…”

He looked at Khushi and said,

“He is Aman and he is Nandkishor… my friends…”

Khushi smiled.

“We knew you… we were there in the State meet” Nandkishore said.

“But, we don’t know you,” Aman said looking at Preeto.

“It’s because I’m not an Athlete,” Preeto said.

“How is your Practice going, Khushi?” Arnav asked.

Khushi nodded her head.

“Are you practising or not?”

“Practising…”

“Good… we are going to run together from here on…”

Khushi widened her eyes.

“For our college…”

She shook her head slowly.

He removed something from his pocket and gave it to her. It was a card. Khushi looked at the card. RISE and SHINE were written on it.

“What’s this?”

“It’s an Athletic Coaching centre. I already joined. I told the coach about you. He asked me to bring you there. You too join there…”

Khushi nodded no hurriedly.

“No… I will practice on my own”

“Then you can’t improve yourself…”

“No… it’s enough…”

“It’s not enough… you will learn techniques. They will improve your stamina according to your metabolism. They will teach what to do and don’t”

“My father will not allow me…” She said in a low tone.

Arnav sighed. He sat on the first bench, facing her.

“Listen… you are a talented Athlete. You can achieve a lot if you are trained”

Khushi felt it awkward. She didn’t know how to deny Arnav. She did that easily through others but when he was in front of her, she could not talk cut and rightly. Their professor came for her help. Seeing him, Arnav went to his place.

 

Short Break

Before Arnav came to her, Khushi left the class, dragging Preeto with her.

“Khushi, why are you dragging me like this?”  

“I’m hungry… let’s go to the canteen,” Khushi said and walked towards the canteen.

Preeto followed her controlling her smile. Didn’t she know why Khushi did that? But to Khushi’s disappointment, Arnav also came to the canteen with his FULL gang. Khushi was perplexed and Preeto controlled her smile.

Arnav brought his friends to Khushi.

“Khushi, this is Lavanya…”

Khushi smiled.

“Hi…” Lavanya smiled.

“This is Sheetal, Payal, and Akash”

Khushi smiled at them.

“We are from the BBA group”

Khushi nodded smiling.

“You know what Khushi, we all decided to be in the BBA group… especially Arnav because however he will join his father’s business but, he chose B.com” NK said.

“Yeah, as he chose BBA, Aman and NK also joined him,” Lavanya said.

Khushi looked at Arnav like, WHY?

Arnav smiled at her which confused her.

“I think she is RETICENT…” Sheetal smiled.

She intentionally used the RARE word in her conversation. So Khushi could not understand that as she studied in a Government School. Sheetal expected her to ask them the meaning but before she did that,

“Yeah, she speaks less…” Arnav said.

Khushi understood that the word RETICENT was a one-word substitution of ONE WHO SPEAKES LESS.

“Let’s eat something…” Lavanya said.

“Such a Glutton she is…” Sheetal again did that.

“Ok, guys… go to your department,” Arnav said.

“Whaaat? Are you separating us from you?” Lavanya asked pouting.

“Even though he doesn’t do it, we are separated… understand that,” Aman said.

Lavanya pouted.

“Your department are different. It doesn’t mean there is a difference between you…there is a big string that connects all of you… FRIENDSHIP…” Khushi said, making Lavanya smile.

“She is right…” NK said.

“Yeah, go to your department with no worries,” Aman said.

Lavanya nodded ok and left.

“You are not only a talented Athlete but also a smart friend” Arnav smiled.

Khushi liked him calling her friend. Yet, she was scared to be friendly with rich guys.

“Let’s go to our class…” She said to Preeto.

“Yeah, let’s go to our class…” Arnav followed them.

They came to their class and sat in their respective places. That was when the physical instructor of their college came to their class.

“Arnav, and Khushi…”

Both of them stood up.

“Oh… are you guys State Gold medallist?”

They nodded yes.

“What’s your event?”

“Two hundred meters,” Khushi said.

“Four hundred meters,” Arnav said.

“Mmm… two Gold medallists in the same class… Ok, you should be in the ground from next week”

“Ok, sir,” Arnav said.

“Inter-college competition will be held in a month or two. Are you in practice or not?”

“Yes, sir…” both said.

“Get ready with your spikes”

Khushi could not hold herself from looking at Arnav who bought it from her but Arnav didn’t look at her. Khushi liked it.

Khushi became excited about starting her practice properly. At the same time, she was nervous because Arnav would be with her. It was clear that she could not avoid him.

 

Evening

The last bell rang. Arnav came to Khushi and said,

“I will drop you home”

“No, thanks… we will go by bus”

“What harm if you come with me?”

“People will talk unnecessarily. We are simple people, unlike you. so, please understand”

Clutching Preeto’s hand, Khushi walked. Arnav stood looking at her.

Aman and NK tapped his shoulder.

“Isn’t she overreacting?” Aman asked.

“How could we say so? We don’t know about her neighbour… they may talk rubbish…”

“If it is so, I don’t think she will join our gang,” Aman said.

“Let’s see…”

Arnav walked out of the class. Aman and NK spared a glance.

To be continued…

 

 

Part 10 Managing Director

 

Khushi came to the bus stand with Preeto.

 

"It seems Arnav is a nice guy"

 

Khushi looked at her plainly.

 

"Didn't you see, how he off the head weighted girl Sheetal?"

 

"They studied in an A-class school. Their slang would also be A class. Just because we are weaker in English, how could we blame her?"

 

"No Khushi, she intentionally found that to show us that we are not equal to them"

 

"She is not wrong though... We are not equal to them"

 

"We may not equal to them in money... But I'm sure she can't be equal to you on track. Don't forget that"

 

"Why are you creating a scene as if she is our enemy?"

 

"It's not me but she who sees us as her enemy"

 

"They were friends from childhood. How could they accept us as their friend suddenly?"

 

"Didn't Arnav accept us?"

 

"He is a sports guy. He is friendly with us because I'm also a sports girl..."

 

"Sheetal is also a sports girl. Don't forget that"

 

Khushi sighed.

 

"You can say whatever Khushi... But, Arnav is something... Such a nice guy. He cares for you"

 

"His care gives me worries"

 

"But why, Khushi?"

 

"Don't know..." Khushi said with worry.

 

"I know the reason. No one cared about you so far. Arnav does. It seems new to you. That's what makes you worry"

 

"Care? He seems OVER-CARING"

 

"What's there to be bothered?"

 

"Preeto, having a boyfriend may be a simple thing in high-class society. What about us? Our neighbours will start writing stories if they see me talking to a boy... That too high-class boy"

 

"Khushi, don't think much..."

 

"I'm thinking of changing departments"

 

Preeto was shocked for a second and laughed.

 

"Why are you laughing?"

 

"Then what? Our college physical instructor asked both of you to start practice. However, you guys are going to be in the ground, no matter what. Then, what's the use of changing the department?"

 

Khushi bit her nails.

 

"Don't confuse your brain. I think there is nothing to worry about because Arnav is a good boy"

 

They saw their route bus coming.

 

"Let's go"

 

They got onto the bus.

 

.........

 

RM

 

Arnav entered the home and rolled his eyes to see his father. Seeing Arnav, Burger ran to him and hopped on him. Arnav caressed it lovingly.

 

"Don't I have the respect this dog has for you?"

 

"This is not respect but LOVE..! Burger is the only one who loves me truly"

 

Arvind sighed.

 

"By the way thank you for accepting my request to be one of the MANAGING DIRECTORS of our company"

 

Arnav looked at him plainly and continued caressing Burger.

 

"I would like to know only one thing, Chotte. When your friends choose BBA, why did you choose B.Com? Didn't you guys want to be in the same department? Then what made you change your decision?"

 

"I am one of the Managing Directors of Delhi cement company. However, I am going to be the one. Then, why should I die in BBA? I will study B. Com without any tension...!"

 

"Becoming one of the Managing Directors of our company is what changed your mind?"

 

Arnav looked at him with a rigid expression.

 

"You are becoming tough to understand, Chotte"

 

"When you have much more things to concentrate on, why are you wasting your time on me?"

 

"Chhote, you are my son. You matter to me"

 

"In which sense?"

 

Arvind got stuck. She stood up from the couch and started walking without saying anything.

 

"If you have any plans regarding my future, give up on them. Nothing will happen after your wish."

 

Arvind stopped walking and looked at him turning his head. Arnav looked at him shrinking his eyes. Arvind saw stubbornness in his eyes. Arvind left the place.

 

 

The next day

 

"I don't know why Arnav is doing this" Sheetal said wearily.

 

Lavanya was looking down and said nothing.

 

"We all were about to join BBA. That was our plan. Then why did he change his department at the last moment?"

 

"I can't understand anything, Sheetal"

 

"Do you think he doesn't know your heart?"

 

Lavanya looked at her and again bowed down.

 

"I know you have feelings for Arnav. He, too, should have known about it. Will you say he would not have noticed your gesture?"

 

"I don't know, but neither did he talk about it nor did he show like he knew about it", Lavanya said worriedly.

 

"It's not too late... go and confess..."

 

"Is it necessary?"

 

"However, one day he should know about your feelings, right? Or, are you going to bury your love in your heart itself? Without confessing, how would you know what's there in his mind?"

 

"I know his mind. He loves me... I know"

 

"Then, why are you delaying? Confess your love and enjoy your life with him"

 

Lavanya became thoughtful.

 

"Ok, I will confess my love soon" Lavanya concluded.

 

Sheetal smirked inwardly. She knew Arnav had no such idea in his heart. He considered Lavanya as his friend... Only friend. There was nothing more than friendship in his mind. Sheetal was planning to hit two birds with one stone called Lavanya's Love. She wanted to end Lavanya's love. At the same time, she wanted to keep Khushi away from Arnav. She doubted Arnav was not just doing things for Khushi out of sports interest. Something must be there in his mind. They never let anyone enter their team no matter what. Many guys tried to get into their gang in the old school, too, but they didn't let it happen. But now, Arnav brought a girl to their gang who was not up to their standard. This nonsense should be stopped. The girl should not get any romantic ideas in her mind about Arnav. So she decided to use Lavanya for her plan.

 

......

 

Khushi and Preeto came to their class. Arnav was not in the class. Though Khushi didn't want him to talk to her, she could not hold her eyes from searching for him. She made sure he was not in the class.

 

After a while, Arnav came with his friends. Khushi looked at him and looked down.

 

Arnav cane to her.

 

"Hi..." He tapped her desk and headed to his desk not waiting for her to reciprocate his HI.

 

To her surprise, Arnav didn't disturb her until the lunch. Someone brought him lunch. Taking the bag from him, Arnav came to Khushi's desk where she was supposed to have lunch with Preeto.

 

Arnav snatched her box from her hand and kept the lunch bag on the desk.

 

"What are you doing?"

 

"Providing lunch..."

 

"No need... I have mine"

 

"We will share..."

 

"No..."

 

"Won't you let me eat homemade food?" He touched the sentiment line.

 

Khushi was stuck. She didn't know what he meant because she didn't know anything about his family status.

 

Using the little gap, he opened Khushi's box and ate.

 

"Mmmm... Is this your mother's preparation?"

 

Khushi nodded yes.

 

"So delicious..."

 

He saw Khushi looking at him weirdly.

 

"What are you waiting for? Start..."

 

He looked at Preeto,

 

"Help your friend..."

 

Preeto took the boxes out of the bag and opened them. Khushi was dumbfounded to see the food. It was the perfect BALANCED DIET for any sports personality needed. Boiled eggs, spinach, mixed vegetables, sprouted grains, and mutton gravy with white rice and rotti.

 

Preeto looked at Khushi, who was staring at the food.

 

"Our practice will be severe from here on. WE need this diet. Have them" he kept the empty box finishing her lunch.

 

"If you eat very little food, how will you gain needed energy?" He stuffed a boiled egg in his mouth.

 

Khushi was sitting silently.

 

"What happened?"

 

"My food is enough for me..."

 

"Ok... I already finished your food. So, east mine today... Or else, my stomach will ache for snatching your food"

 

Khushi took the vegetable box and ate it. He took half of the vegetables from the box and kept a boiled egg and a free mutton piece in the box. Khushi looked at him perplexed. Arnav gestured her to eat. Khushi sighed. It seemed this guy would not be quiet. She didn't know how to stop him.

 

After eating, Arnav was about to leave the place, but Khushi called him.

 

"One minute..."

 

"Yes..."

 

"Don't do this again. I don't want this"

 

"May I know why?"

 

"My parents will not like all these..." She left the place.

 

Preeto looked at him miserably but Arnav thought something, sucking his finger.

 

 

Evening/ GH

 

Khushi rushed out of the room hearing Shashi calling her. Khushi got stuck to see Arnav at her place with someone.

 

"Khushi is one of the managing directors of Delhi Cement company. He would like to sponsor you" Shashi said.

 

To be continued...

 

 

 Part 11 Contract Signed

Khushi was stuck to see Arnav at her house. Where did he meet Shashi? What did her father say? Managing Director? How did her father know about him? Why did he meet her father instead of her? Was not it she who should be known about his contract?

She saw a mild smile on Arnav’s face. She could not conclude the meaning of his smile.

"Khushi, they are here to sponsor you..."

Khushi looked at Arnav thunderstruck.

"Actually, she is studying in the same college as our MD," the man with Arnav said.

"Is it? Are you a student?"

"Yes, uncle. I'm studying in the same college as Khushi. I saw her performance at the state meet. She will definitely win a medal in the National meet this year. So thought to sponsor her through our company"

"So nice of you, sir"

"He is our company manager, Govardhan. He is the one who is going to follow Khushi up" Arnav looked at Govardhan.

“Sir, I’m Govardhan. Manager of Delhi Cements company. He is our company’s one of the managing directors, Arnav Singh Raizada. He is also an athlete. He saw her performance in the last State meet. He was so impressed by her BAREFOOT performance. He tried to find her but he could not REACH her. He expected her to come to the National meet but she didn’t. Now, she joined the same college as him. So, he wants to help her. He wanted it to be official. So, we are here to sponsor her”

Shashi looked at Khushi proudly.

“Uncle, I want Khushi to be recognised. She is a talented girl. That’s why I want our company to sponsor her”

“Yes, sir, if she signed our contract, you don’t have to bother about her future. Our MD sir will take care of it” the manager said.

Shashi looked at Khushi and said,

“You are so lucky to have such a great opportunity, Khushi”

Khushi smiled.

“Before signing the contract, we would like to tell you our terms and conditions”

“What terms and conditions?” Garima asked whereas Shashi smiled as they already told him about it.

“She should not skip her practice unless she is ill. She should follow our diet chart and we will provide her food as per her dietician’s guidance. She will join the sports academy with our MD sir. She should practice there in the evenings. She will be paid a stipend of twenty-five thousand every month”

Shashi looked at Khushi who widened her eyes. Garima closed her mouth with her palm.

“For what are you paying her?” Garima asked.

“To win medals in the sports meets… if she wins medals, her stipend will be increased accordingly”

Khushi looked at Arnav who was smiling at her. She gulped down hard. That was too much for her to handle.

“All the needed things will be given by our company to her. You do not need to buy anything, sir”

Shashi nodded ok smilingly.

“This is the contract. Read and sign, Ma’am” Govardhan extended it to Khushi.

Without taking it, she stood hesitatingly.

“Khushi, what are you waiting for?” Garima asked.

“I think she is thinking about society. She will have to be with me on the ground all the time. Is it so, Khushi?” Arnav intentionally asked to clear the issue.

Shashi and Garima looked at her.

“You are a sports girl. Mingling with boys is unavoidable to you. why are you bothering about people when you have a goal to achieve?” Garima asked.

Khushi looked at Shashi. He blinked his eyes. Taking the papers from him, Khushi read them. The exact statement of Govardhan was printed in the papers. She looked at Shashi and then at Arnav who was watching her. Khushi signed the contract with Delhi Cements company. Giving her a copy, Govardhan kept the original contract papers in his file.

“The contract will be affected from tomorrow onwards, Madam”

Khushi nodded ok.

“Arnav sir will pick you up tomorrow morning for the practice”

Khushi looked at Arnav.

"You should follow our instructions. We will assign you a couch. You should practice sincerely every day..."  Arnav said.

Khushi nodded her head slowly.

"We will send a car. So you don't bother about transporting"

Khushi was silent.

“Bye, uncle,” Arnav said.

“Bye, sir…”

“You can call me Arnav. I’m Khushi’s classmate… her friend…”

“Ok beta…” Shashi smiled.

“Bye, Khushi”

Khushi shook her head.

Arnav left the place with Govardhan.

“I can’t believe this” Garima said while taking the contract papers from Khushi’s hand. She kept it in front of DM’s idol.

“Devi Miya, thanks for showing a path to our daughter” Taking a vermillion, she kept it on Khushi’s forehead.

“Is not the boy seemingly nice?” Garima said.

“Mmm… he made our shop owner shiver”

“Is it?”

“yes… I was in the sweet shop, making sweets for tomorrow’s wedding order. That was when a worker called me and said someone was there to meet me. I asked who that was. He said they want to talk to you about your daughter. I was confused. Who wanted to talk to me about my daughter? Instead of raising a question to the worker, I thought to meet the person. Washing my hands, I came out and saw two coat-suit men talking with our sweet shop owner Lalaram. He spoke to me so humbly like never before. ‘Come on Shashiji, they are from the Delhi cement company. They want to meet you” Shashi imitated his sweet shop owner Lala Ram.

“Really?” Garima chuckled.

“Yeah, I looked at the men and said, Namaste! I am Shashi Gupta. What do you want to talk to me? Govardhanji said, ‘Our company would like to sponsor your daughter. Your daughter's expense is our responsibility from here on. We will provide everything she needs for her practice. Not only that, we will give her twenty-five thousand as a stipend every month’ I looked at them awestruck, whereas Lala Ram was horrified. He was giving me a salary of only fifteen thousand but my daughter was going to get twenty thousand to RUN…!” Shashi laughed and Garima joined him. Khushi smiled seeing them laughing wholeheartedly.  

“Lalaram would have thought, Shashi Gupta would not continue as a sweet master in his shop any more…” he again laughed.

“From here on, we don’t bother about anything… they will provide your food, needed things, transportation, everything…! Adding to it, twenty-five thousand rupees as a stipend. What a great opportunity…!” Garima said excitedly.

“Khushi beta, why are you silent? You should be happier than us…”

Khushi smiled but artificially. She didn’t know why Arnav was doing her favour. She didn’t want to be a part of his gang but Arnav created a team with only her. There would not be any chance for her to avoid him from hereon.

“Will they send her food every day?” Garima asked.

“I think so…”

“What kind of food they will provide?”

“They will send it tomorrow. You can see then” Shashi said.

Khushi could not stop herself from remembering what kind of food Arnav brought to the college that day. Would she get such food every day? Then the practice would also be tough it seemed. However, she signed the contract. She could not back off anymore. She had to handle everything regarding. Khushi supposed.

 

The next morning

Khushi as usual woke up at 4:30 am and got ready. Exactly at 5 o’clock, Arnav’s car came to her house.

Khushi bid bye to her parents and got into the car.

“Hi, good morning” Arnav smiled.

“Good morning”

“Put on your seat belt” Arnav said.

Khushi pulled both the belts. So, she could not buckle it.

“Wait…”

Arnav pulled her seat belt and buckled it. Khushi leaned on the seat closing her eyes. Arnav smiled and sat straight.

“I hope you are happy about our contract”

“Jee…”

Arnav raised his brows. JEE? Really? He chuckled.

“Our practice will be harder from hereon. So, you should take a balanced diet”

“Jee…”

“After or before lunch, a power nap is a must… it will keep us brisk”

“But, I have no habit of sleeping in the day time”

“You are waking up early in the morning and doing practice. Yet, you don’t need rest?”

“I will sleep tight in the nights…”

“Is it enough?”

“Jee…”

“That’s ok… try to take a nap for ten to fifteen minutes. You will see the difference”

“Mmm”

Arnav stopped the car in front of the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium. Khushi looked at the stadium awestruck. She entered the stadium with a slight nervousness because that was the first time she was entering the stadium.

“You are a member here. You can practice here anytime” Arnav said and she looked at him perplexed.

Member? She could not believe it because entering the stadium was her dream…! She never thought her dream would come true…!

To be continued…

Part 12 Friend Request  

Khushi looked at the Nehru Stadium as if it was a heaven. She could not believe she was a member there.

“Let’s start warm-up…” Arnav smiled.

Khushi started doing warm-ups.  After finishing it, she ran slowly. Arnav followed her. They ran five laps.

Khushi stopped and looked at Arnav for his instructions. Arnav gave her a small bottle.

“Have it”

Khushi had it without a question. She didn’t know what it was but it tasted delicious. Though it was a very small quantity drink, she felt filling.

“It’s dry fruits and banana shake. It will give energy. At the same time, you won’t feel hungry”

Khushi nodded. They waited for five minutes and then again started running… this time faster than before. After an hour of practice, they did warm down. They did some exercise alone and some exercise together. Khushi didn’t show her awkwardness.

They sat on the turf relaxing. Arnav smiled at Khushi.

“You didn't expect me to become your sponsor, right?”

Khushi nodded yes.

“You were so hesitant to be casual with me. you were not even ready to accept my favour. That’s why I directly approached your father”

“Why did you put this much effort to make me accept your favour?”

“It’s because you are a talented Athlete. That’s why… and more than that…” he stopped.

“What?”

“I wanted to be your friend”

Khushi raised her brows.

“Friends?” He forwarded his hand for a shake.

Khushi nodded no.

“But why?” Arnav fisted his fingers.

“Being my sponsor is different… you can be my friend”

“Whhhyyyy?”

“You are a Managing Director of a company. I’m a simple middle-class girl. Yours and our society are different. We can’t travel in the same boat. It will bring many more problems. It will spoil your inner peace. So, please let me be in my limit”

Arnav smiled.

“What do you think of yourself? Do you think you will be like this always? If you win a medal in an International Sports meet, your status becomes higher than mine. The whole high-class guys will die for your friendship…! But I will proudly say, she is my friend” he smiled.

Khushi was looking at him with a mild smile.

“What?”

“You are exaggerating my talent. Me and international medal?” she shook her head with disbelief.

“Ok, if you don’t win the International medal, we will break up our friendship… what say?”

Khushi looked at him perplexed.

“Winning an International medal is not a simple thing. It will take many years…”

“So what? However, we are going to study for three years in the same college. I’m sure you will get to participate in the Commonwealth game that’s going to be held after two years”

Khushi felt a shiver in her spine. Commonwealth Game? She heard her own heartbeat.

“I… I don’t think I can do it”

“You just do what our coach says… he will take care of your participation”

Khushi looked at him thunderstruck.

“Now tell me, will you accept my friend request?” he again extended his hand towards her.

“You already have many friends… then what’s necessary for you to have my friendship?”

“What’s friendship, Khushi?”

“Means?”

“Being together is not friendship… understanding each other is what friendship is. Of course, I have a gang. What do you think about them? Do you think they understand me? Except for Aman and NK others are waste”

“What do you mean waste?”

“They expect something from me always. I’m their pride because I’m a rich guy”

“Then why are you seeking my friendship? I too could be the same as they are”

“If you are like them, you would not avoid my favour but accept my help. You would be a National Gold medallist by now but you didn’t do that. You avoided me by lying”

Khushi looked at him stunningly.

“I know what you said about National meet is a lie. No one was ready to help you… right?”

Khushi looked down.

“I got to know you are not interested in me”

She looked at him frowning.

“I mean to get my favour. You seemed honest in my eyes. That’s why I wanted to help you. that’s why I’m seeking your friendship”

“what you are thinking is not true. I’m not so honest like you think”

“Well… let it be. I don’t have any expectations in you. so, even though you are selfish, it won’t affect me”

“Ok… I will become your friend if I win an international medal… what say?”

Arnav folded his hands smiling.

“Till then?”

“Just a co-athlete…”

“You know what, you are a tough nut to crack”

“You are nice guy. You help people genuinely. I like it very much. That’s why I’m talking to you. Or else, I would not have…”

“Mmm… it seems I have scored good marks in your heart already…”

“Shall we go? Or else, we will be late to the college…”

“We have time… it’s ok… let’s go”

When Arnav dropped her in GH, he saw Omprakash providing Khushi’s breakfast to Garima.

“Did you get everything?” Arnav asked.

“Yes, Arnav Baba. Hariprakash gave everything. Boiled eggs, whole milk, dry fruits” Omprakash said.

“Ok… You can go”

OP left the place.

“Your lunch will be sent to the college and Omprakash will bring your dinner”

Khushi nodded ok.

“Buy…see you in the college”

“Bye”

Arnav left.

Garima opened the box and looked in it.

“My God, four boiled eggs… box full of dry fruits… and…” She tasted the milk.

“Wow, this milk is so thick”

Khushi was silent.

“Go and take a bath. You are getting late for college”

Khushi nodded ok and went to the washroom. Khushi ate only two eggs and a glass of milk.

“What about dry fruits?”

“I already had dry fruits shake in the morning, Amma”

“It seems we don’t have to buy milk for our family” Garima chuckled.       `

Khushi nodded her head from left to right smilingly.

“You too eat them and become energetic” She said teasingly and left for the college.

 

………

Arnav came to the college and saw Lavanya waiting for her.

“Hi…” he smiled.

“I’m waiting for you…”

“Anything serious?”

“I would like to know something”

“Tell me”

“Why did you change the department at the last minute?”

“I became a managing director of my company… So, there is no need for me to study hard”

“But, you study well. BBA will not be tough for you”

“Of course, but, B.com will be easier than BA. So, I chose that”

“Didn’t you feel to be with us in the same department?”

“Lavanya, it’s over… why are you digging something that’s buried already?”

“Do you know how much I miss you?”

“I too miss you… but we should have to get separated one day. We can’t be together forever… understand the reality”

“What do you mean, Arnav? Won't you be with me forever?”

“How could we be together forever? How it’s possible?”

“Why won’t it be possible? It will be possible if you want it”

“It’s not only about me… it’s about you and your husband…”

“Husband? What do you mean husband?”

“You want us to be together forever. Then, your husband will play an important role in our friendship”

“I can’t believe this”

“What?”

“Don’t you know what’s there in my heart?”

“What?’

“YOU…”

“Whaaaat?”

“Yes, Arnav. I love you”

“What the kkk…”

Arnav left the place not wanting to stand there because he might talk harshly.

To be continued…

 

 

 Part 13 Thanks

Arnav walked with disappointment, anger, and weary. He didn’t expect Lavanya would come up with such an embarrassment.

Lavanya rushed behind him and stopped him by holding his hand. Arnav looked at her rigidly.

“Why are you leaving without saying anything, ASR? Don’t you have concern for me?”

“Yes, I don’t have SUCH concern you are expecting from me...” he said gritting his teeth.

“What do you mean? Don’t you love me?”

“Love? What do you mean love? I love all our friends… because you are my friends. Not such kind of love you just expressed…”

Lavanya looked at him perplexed. As she didn’t expect that from him because she grew feelings for him on her own thinking that, she was special to him.

“What do you think of me, Lavanya? We have been friends since childhood. Is this what your friendship is? What you showed in the name of friendship is not friendship but something…”

“But you always showed special concern for me…”

“It’s you who always highlighted yourself as a special person. Did I ever say you are more special than others? No… it was you who asked, am I not special to you? I didn’t deny it because I didn’t want to hurt you but I didn’t know you would have such an idea in your mind. if I had known your idea, I would not have let you grow it… I would have prevented it in the beginning. I thought you were my best friend. I thought I had friends who understood me… but, you disappointed me. I didn’t expect this from you, Lavanya… I never expected this from you” Arnav left the place.

Lavanya stood with pooled-up eyes. Sheetal rushed to her and touched her shoulder. In no time, Lavanya cried hugging her. Sheetal caressed her back smirking.

“Arnav is angry with me. he is highly disappointed. He shouted at me for loving him. he didn’t have feelings for me like I have for him. He considers me as his friend… only his friend…”

“But you were so confident about his feelings…”

“I thought he loved me…”

“How did you think so, Lavanya?”

“His gestures seemed so”

“What gesture are you talking about? He moved equally with all of us. I never saw him showing any special gesture for you”

Breaking the hug, Lavanya cried closing her face.

“Arnav is furious with me. He will not talk to me anymore. He won’t let me be a part of our gang from here on.”

“Relax… nothing will happen like that…”

“No, I have never seen him so angry before. He is upset”

“Will you say he is wrong? How could you think he loves you without knowing what was in his mind? Of course, he will not talk to you because he got to know what you are thinking about him. He got to know your feelings for him. how could he behave coolly with him?”

“I will try to change my mind if he accepts me as his friend like before. I can’t lose his friendship. I need his friendship. Please do something…”

“Ok, but you should promise you will never bring your love issue to him again”

“I will not…” Lavanya said in a low tone and again cried.

“Ok, I will talk to him but give him some time. He is angry now. Approaching him now is not advisable. Don’t go in front of him today. I will talk to him tomorrow”

Lavanya nodded ok. Sheetal smirked because the first part of her plan had succeeded but she didn’t know someone heard their talks.

Khushi saw Arnav talking to Aman and NK about something seriously. His face emitted fire. Aman hit his forehead whereas NK ran his fingers in his hair all frustrated. it was clear that they were upset about something.

Their class started. Arnav and his friends didn’t concentrate on the class. They were physically present in the class but mentally absent. Khushi was confused. He was so brisk in the morning practice. What happened to him all of a sudden?

The first period was gone. The Physical instructor sent a senior student to bring Arnav and Khushi to the playground. Arnav walked to the ground not looking at Khushi.

When they came to the ground, he stopped and looked at Khushi.

“Thanks”

Khushi frowned as she didn’t know why he thanked her.

“Thanks for?”

Or not accepting my friend request”

Khushi raised her brows. What happened to him? He was upset in the morning because she didn’t accept his friend request. Now he was thankful to her for not accepting his friend request! What was wrong with him? She went to the physical instructor, following Arnav.

“Guys, your practice should be started…”

“We already started, sir,” Arnav said.

“Started means?”

“As usual, I and Khushi did our morning practice today in the Nehru stadium”

“How are you guys together?” The PI asked.

“Our company is sponsoring her. That’s why we are together, sir”

“Oh… that’s nice to hear”

“She is a state Gold medal winner sir… that’s why our company adopted her”

“Is it?” He asked Khushi.

She nodded yes and said,

“Yes, sir, we signed the contract yesterday”

“Oh…So, will you do practice every morning?”

“In the evening also in the sports academy, sir”

“That’s great… Ok, you guys just be in touch with our Athletes. Come to the ground daily. Then only you will get the privileges token provided by our college. You can use it to get eatable form our college canteen”

“Sure sir” Arnav said and Khushi looked at him surprisingly. He could buy the college canteen in a single cheque. Then why did he want to get the privilege token to get something from the canteen?  

“Ok, get your today’s tokens”

“Thank you, sir, let’s go, Khushi,”

Arnav said and walked with Khushi to the canteen. They came to the canteen and got their tokens. They were provided with anything they asked.

Arnav asked for fresh juice for both of them and came to a table with Khushi. As it was a working hour, there was no one other than sports boys and girls in the canteen.

Khushi looked at Arnav questioningly.

“Whaaat? Have the juice”

“You provide a healthy diet for me and of course, you too have them. Then, why do you accept this token?”

“Our college students should recognise us as sports personalities. This is a collage that celebrates sports girls and boys. We should not miss it. We don’t get the recognition if we stay aloof.  We should mingle with other sports guys. That’s why I didn’t deny it”

Khushi nodded.

“You thanked me for not accepting you as my friend. Why?”

Arnav drank the juice smilingly and said,

“It’s because you didn’t accept me as your friend”

Khushi nodded yes frowning.

“So?”

“Nothing… that’s all”

She shrank her nose and Arnav chuckled.

“You looked upset in the first period. Is everything alright?”

Arnav’s facial expression changed.

“I’m sorry. If I…”

Cutting her,

“Nothing… shall we go to the class?’

Khushi nodded ok and stood.

“We are already doing enough practice. So, don’t do that in college. It will make you tired. Then you can’t give your best in the sports academy”

She nodded ok.

When they came to the class, the short break bell rang. Khushi came to Preeto who pulled Khushi’s hand and asked,

“Did Arnav tell you anything?”

“About what?”

“About Lavanya”

“Lavanya? What’s there to tell me about?”

“She proposed to him”

“Whaaat?”

“Yes, didn’t you see Arnav being upset?”

“Was that the reason?”

“Yes,”

“How do you know?”

“I heard Lavanya and Sheetal talking about it”

“Is it…?”

“Yes, being his FRIEND, how could she love him?”

Khushi looked at her dumbfounded.

“They have been friends for many years. Poor Arnav, Didn’t he feel distraught when she proposed to him? She spoilt the name friendship. If she had feelings for him, she should not roam with him in the name of FRIEND” Preeto spoke.

Khushi was looking at her dumbfounded, thinking about Arnav’s THANKS. Didn’t he thank her for not accepting his friend request? What did that mean? Khushi gulped down.

To be continued…

 

 Part 14 No Friend No Bestie

Khushi was staring at Preeto. Arnav thanked her for not accepting her friendship, the man who requested to accept it in the morning. What did that mean? Why did he change his mind suddenly? What did she think could be right? Did he change it after Lavanya’s confession? Did he feel proposing to a friend was not right? 

“Khushi…” Preeto shook her shoulder.

“Hanna?”

“I suspect Sheetal,” Preeto said.

“What? Why do you suspect Sheetal?”

“Yes…Khushi, I strongly suspect Sheetal”

“Why?”

“I saw her smirking when Lavanya crying”

Khushi looked at Preeto perplexed who nodded her head firmly.

“Which friend would smirk when the dear friend faced a love failure? Even though she was not fine with what she did, she might have gotten angry with her, or, upset with her but she smirked”

Khushi became thoughtful.

“I think she plays DOUBLE game, Khushi”

“Whatever she does, why should we bother about her?”

“A fire burning in the house next door will spread to our house too. Knowingly or unknowingly, you are one of them now. The man person of the gang is close to you. So, be careful. She may play her card to you too”

“Preeto, I don’t think she will give us heed. Didn’t you see, how proud she is? Accept it or not, we are not equal to them…”

“I’m not talking about equality, Khushi. Understand that. I don’t want any problem between you and Arnav. I’m sure you will achieve many things if he is with you… he is willing to help you, Khushi. I’m scared these guys will spoil that”

Khushi remembered how Arnav spoke to her about the International Medal. She felt Goosebumps. Why was he showing so much interest in her? Who was she to him? Why did he want her to achieve something big? Was he that confident in her abilities? Preeto was right. She could never get such support in her life. Arnav was a nice guy. He had no pride and arrogance about his status. She was so lucky to have such a friend… Khushi was stuck. FRIEND? Would he accept it if she addressed him as her friend?

“What are you thinking, Khushi?”

“I will be careful, Preeto”

“Especially with Sheetal”

“Yeah, especially with Sheetal”

“Let’s go”

They came to their class. Arnav smiled at her. Khushi thought something and went to him. Arnav sat straight with a smile. She extended her hand towards him and said,

“Friends?”

Arnav was taken aback. He nodded no sighing.

“I’m ready to accept your friend request”

“I already deleted it” he smiled.

“But why? Don’t you like to be my friend?”

“No need… we can continue like this…”

“Like what? Sponsor and a sports personality?”

“Yeah… sounds good… more than that, we can be classmates, college mates, and sports mates… anything”

“You are ready to be any MATE but my friend?”

Arnav nodded yes pressing his lips. Khushi made a sad face and walked back to her place. Arnav became nervous because she became upset. He came to her,

“Khushi…”

Khushi looked at him making a face.

“What about BESTIE?”

“Means?” she tilted her head slightly.

“Means, you are not just a friend but something more than that”

“Something more than that means?”

“Means, a person with RIGHTS”

“Rights?”

“Yeah…”

“I’m sorry. I can’t be your Bestie”

“But why?”

“If I became your Bestie accepting the RIGHTS given by you, I should also give you the same rights in return. I can’t do it”

“Why?” he inserted his hands in his pant pockets.

“Somehow you understood that I won’t take advantage of your rights. That’s why you are giving me rights without bothering but I know nothing about you. then how do I give you the rights?”

Arnav folded his hands smilingly.

“What do you think I will do?” he asked.

“I don’t think anything… I don’t want to… because, according to me, you are a nice guy. I don’t want it to change”

“Khushi, you are so smart… but, I don't want you to be my friend. You don’t want me to be your Bestie. Then what’s our relationship?”

“No relationship… I’m Khushi and you are Arnavji…”

“Arnav JI? Like really?” He chuckled.

“I respect you”

Arnav rolled his eyes smiling.

“Sounds nice… do you know why?”

Khushi nodded no.

“Nothing…” he smiled.

Khushi raised her brows.

Khushi sat in her place. Arnav was smiling all the time in class. Khushi noticed it and she too smiled.

 

Lunch Break

The lunch for Arnav and Khushi arrived. Of course, he asked Aman and NK to join them.

“Congratulations Khushi… you became Delhi Cement’s Ambassador”

 “Not yet…”

“But, one day you will surely” Arnav said.

Khushi smiled.

“I would like to tell you something”

“Tell me”

“Actually, I will not eat non-veg on Fridays,” Khushi said hesitatingly.

“Khushi, being a sports girl, you should not think about fasting and all. You need energy, Khushi. By now, your diet chart has been prepared. It will be hard for them to change it… ” Aman said.

Khushi looked at Arnav who was smiling. Khushi ate the boiled eggs silently.

“ASR, I’m thinking about resuming my practice. What say?”

“Great…”

“Don’t think he will sponsor you too” NK said.

“Dude will do everything to me without sponsorship,” Aman said proudly.

Arnav blinked his eyes.

After finished eating, Aman and NK went to meet their friends but Arnav didn’t go.

 That was when they saw Sheetal coming. Seeing her, Arnav’s facial expression changed. She came to him.

“Arnav…” she called.

Arnav looked at her rigidly.

“Please come”

“We have an important period now…leave,” he said.

“Won’t you give me five minutes?”

“why?”

“I want to talk to you”

“I’m not ready to talk to anyone. Leave Sheetal”

“But, what I did?”

Arnav glared at her.

“Relax Arnav… we are friends…”

“Friends my foot”

“Arnav relax. I can understand what you are undergoing. That’s why I came to meet you”

“Whaaat?”

“Please come out… for five minutes”

Arnav sighed and walked out. Sheetal followed her. Khushi looked at Preeto but she was not in her place. Where did she go? Khushi searched for her but she was not in the class.

Arnav came out and looked at Sheetal furiously.

“What? What do you want to talk to me? if you raise a single word about Lavanya and her love, I won’t spare you”

“What do you think of me, Arnav? this is what you understood me? How do you think I would stand for Lavanya when I know how wrong she is?” she asked disappointedly.

Arnav calmed down.

“Tell me…”

“This is so unpleasant. I didn’t expect Lavanya would have such an idea about you in her mind. She disappointed us but we can’t say she was completely wrong”

“What do you mean?”

“Look at yourself, Arnav. Which girl would ignore your charms? Your smile, your style, your attraction everything can attract a girl. That’s how Lavanya would have attracted to you. More than that, you too created such an idea in her mind…”

“Whaaaat?”

“Unknowingly… by showing your concern, care and love. Didn’t you notice, she always thought she had a special place in her heart? Poor she… it’s all common in this age, Arnav”

Arnav rolled his eyes irritatingly.

“She is our friend. She wants your forgiveness because she realized her mistake. If we don’t forgive her, who will? We have been friends since childhood Arnav. For the sake of our friendship, please forgive her. You don’t have to talk to her like before. Just give her a place in our gang. Or else, she will feel ashamed of herself. Please Arnav…”

“I have no problem if she is in our gang…”

“That’s enough… just tell her you forgive her…”

Arnav glared at her.

“For once… please. She will never come up with such ideas. You can trust her.”

“It will be good for her”

“Thank you, Arnav”

Arnav went to his class. Sheetal saw Khushi going to the girls’ common room. She followed her smirking.

To be continued…

Part 15 Master Plan

Sheetal followed Khushi to the girl’s room. She already planned what to do and how. She didn’t enter the girl’s room and waited outside. When Khushi came out, she kept her phone on her ear and spoke, pretending she was talking with someone.

“Yeah, I just spoke to Arnav and solved their problem.”

“…..”

“It’s all common if they are in love. Don’t we know Arnav and Lavanya are in love with each other?”

Khushi frowned. Was Arnav in love with Lavanya? But, Preeto said the opposite of…!  Khushi knew Preeto had no reason to lie about Arnav.

“Their fathers want them to tie the knot… after all, they are business partners…”

Khushi widened her eyes. Were Lavanya and Arnav’s father business partners?

“No, no, no problem now. Don’t we know Arnav? He gets angry easily. At the same time, he cools down easily. More than everything, Lavanya holds a special place in his heart. He could not be angry with her for long”

 “…….”

“They will officially patch up this evening,” Sheetal said.

“……”

“Yeah, they are equal in status, studies, everything. That’s why they make a good pair. Arnav loved her so much. That’s why I helped them to sort out their problem” Sheetal pretended to disconnect the call and turned.

She looked at Khushi and again pretended like she had just seen her. Khushi smiled at her not showing any expression on her face.

“Hi, Khushi…”

“Hi…”

“Didn’t you go for practice?”

“We completed…”

“Oh… that’s nice. Don’t worry. Arnav will take care of your career. He is a nice guy. Helps everyone. When it comes to the sports, he will give his best”

Khushi nodded smilingly.

That was when Preeto came there. She looked at them doubtfully.

“Khushi, come…”

“What happened?”

“Bell is going to ring”

“bye, Sheetal”

Sheetal nodded. Khushi walked with Preeto.

“What a surprise, Sheetal was talking to you…! what did she say?”

“She said something… opposite to you”

“What?”

“She said Arnav is committed to Lavanya”

“Whaaat? Did she tell you that directly?”

“Not directly… she was talking with someone on the phone”

“It’s a pure lie… Arnav is not committed to Lavanya”

“Mmm... Arnav and Lavanya’s fathers are business partners”

“Is it?”

“Mmm…”

“She said they are going to patch up this evening”

“Then we will get to know whether it is true or not”

“Mmm”

“By the way, Khushi, why does Sheetal particularly want you to know about Arnav and Lavayna?”

Khushi looked at Preeto perplexed.

“Let’s go…” Preeto walked smilingly.

Khushi rushed to her and asked,

“Why?”

“She thinks Arnav has feelings for you”

“But, we just practice together…”

“You are TOGETHER… that’s what pricking her”

“Preeto, did you truly see Lavanya crying?”

Preeto stopped walking and gaped at her.

“No… I didn’t mean it… Sheetal looked so confident when she spoke about Arnav and Lavanya”

“She will not be confident if she sees how Arnav talks to you”

“How?”

“I saw something different in him when he talks to you”

“Means?”

“He seethed in frustration when Lavanya proposed to him. he came to the class with the same frustration. Then you guys went to the ground. When you guys returned he looked so cool. There was no sign of frustration on his face”

Khushi walked silently.

They came to their class. Arnav came to her smilingly.

“Excuse us, Preeto…let’s go Khushi”

“Where?”

“To sleep”

“Whaaat?” She chuckled.

“Come” clutching her hand, he pulled her with him.

Khushi went with him, looking at Preeto who gestured for her to carry on.

They came to the ground. As it was after the lunch period, the ground looked empty. No one was there on the ground. He came with her under a tree and sat leaning on the tree. Khushi stood looking at him.

“What are you waiting for?”

“What do you want me to do?”

“Take a nap”

“I told you, I have no habit of sleeping in the day time”

“Ok, if you don’t want to sleep, no problem. Just be relaxed, closing your eyes”

Khushi sat on the other side, leaning on the tree and closed her eyes.

“Did you close your eyes?”

“Jee…”

“Try to sleep… or, be relaxed. Ok?”

“Jee…”

“Wake me up after twenty minutes”

“Jee…”

Khushi didn’t seem to sleep. She was sitting quietly.

“Khushi…” Arnav called.

“Mmm?”

“I’m very sleepy”

“Oh…”

“I think I will fall…”

She looked at him turning towards him.

“Please come and sit next to me”

Khushi shrank her eyes.

“Give your shoulder for me to lean”

Khushi widened her eyes and sat straight. Arnav looked at her smilingly, making her embarrassed.

“I just am joking… don’t run away…” he chuckled.

“If you want to sleep, your friends will be ready to give you a shoulder to lean…”

Arnav looked at her turning his head and raising his brows.

“I mean we are not friends…”

“Of course, I will get many shoulders to lean... the problem is, if I ask for shoulder, they will forcefully make me lay on their LAP” he said with a meaningful gaze.

Khushi frowned.

“This world rotates purposefully… people have a purpose in everything…no matter what” he leaned on the tree again.

“Why are you always talking like you have lost everything?”

“Really? My friends say I’m not talking to them properly” Arnav smiled painfully.

Khushi was stuck. What did that mean? If he had not talked to his friends like that, would he talk like that only to her?

“By the way, if we are in the ground all the time, when do we study?” She changed the topic.

“Do you want to study?” he asked teasingly.

“Should not we?”

“This college gives importance to sports guys. That’s why we are here. If we win a medal in any event, no professors will question us. They will give us full marks in internals. Then we will easily pass the exams. Inter-college competitions are closing up. We will show our talent in that meet… ok?”

“Jee…”

“Ok, let me sleep” Arnav closed his eyes.

He didn’t sleep and he knew that. yet, he was pretending because if he went to the class, he could not come to the ground the next day. To make Khushi believe, he pretended.

Khushi was thinking about Arnav, Sheetal and Lavanya. If Lavanya was his girlfriend, why didn’t he like to lean on her shoulder? Could not he bring her to the ground on the pretext of any practice? Then, why he didn’t show interest in them? Why did he always talk with disappointment while talking about people? She wanted to see what would happen this evening.

 

Evening

Arnav was waiting for Khushi in their classroom with Aman and NK. He would take her to the sports academy. So, he waited for her. Almost every student left the class. As expected, Sheetal came to their class with Lavanya. Sheetal didn’t enter the class but sent Lavanya to Arnav.

Aman gestured for Arnav to look at her. Arnav saw her coming. He stood looking at her sharply. Lavanya feared to look at him. She lifted her head and said with teary eyes,

“I’m sorry…”

Arnav was silent.

“I… misunderstood your concern. I made a blunder… I’m sorry. Forgive me, Arnav” Tears flew out of her eyes.

Sheetal searched for Khushi but she could not find her. Sheetal became irritated. She could not implement her plan only if Khushi had not been there. She thought Khushi would be curious to know Arnav and Lavanya’s matter. She thought she could keep Khushi away from Arnav by creating a misunderstanding. But, Khushi didn’t give her a chance to do that.

“Lavanya, you know me. don’t you?” Arnav asked sharply.

Lavanya nodded yes.

“Then, why the hell did you get such an idea in your mind?”

“I thought I held a special place in your mind. I’m sorry. I ruined our friendship. I disappointed you. Please forgive me. I will not do that again” She pleaded.

Arnav sighed.

“Ok, don’t cry…”

Lavanya cried more.

“I said, stop crying”

Lavanya wiped her cheek.

“Go home and be relaxed. Think, nothing happened… forget everything… ok?”

In no time, Lavanya hugged him and cried.

“I’m sorry, Arnav”

“It’s ok…” Arnav touched her head.

Sheetal was suffocating. She wanted to make Khushi to see that scene but she was not there.

Where the hell did she go? Would not she be with Arnav all the time? Then where was she? Sheetal gritted her teeth. Her face lit up when she saw Khushi coming.

“Taking her phone, Sheetal spoke”

“Didn’t I say? Arnav and Lavanya are patched up” she said excitedly and pretended to disconnect the call.

Sheetal smiled at Khushi and gestured for her to look at them. Khushi saw them and nodded smilingly. Sheetal huffed in relief as her plan worked but she could not understand one thing. There was no confusion in Khushi’s face. She looked cool. How did she know Khushi was standing near their backside classroom window and heard the conversation between Arnav and Lavanya?

To be continued…