Chapter Thirty One

Knowing that it would take Khushi time to get ready, Arnav had kept his things out with him, getting ready out here while Khushi got ready in their room.

Oh geez, it literally is our room, Arnav thought to himself. I mean way to go Di and Jeejaji, no pressure here at all! And I can't believe the stack of condoms Jeejaji hid in my duffel bag, how ridiculous! I don't care if it was upon Di's insistence to put so many, like what the fuck?!

Arnav paused and shook his head clear.

Relax Arnav, relax. Who even knows what's going to happen tonight? I mean, if Khushi's not comfortable, then that's that. We'll just go to bed together and that's it, and I mean that's not like anything new, we used to sleep next to each other when we were kids, we always had nap time together! ...then again this isn't time for a nap nor are we kids-! Chill out Raizada... chill out. 

The door to their room opened and Arnav turned around and was stunned to the ground, mesmerized by the sight of Khushi in her red sari. He looked her up and down as Khushi slightly fidgeted under his heated gaze.

Get it together Kush, Khushi pepped herself. Get it together!

With a deep breath, Khushi made her way over to Arnav. She noted his outfit as she did, taking in the white button down, red tie, black waistcoat, and black pants. He looked absolutely handsome and Khushi tried very hard not to bite her lip.

"You look beautiful," Arnav finally said when she had reached him.

Khushi looked down as she blushed. Arnav....

Arnav stepped forward and caressed her cheek, tilting it up to him. Her eyes met his and the moment they did, Arnav's lips landed on hers. Khushi let out a soft moan, reaching up to caress his cheek.

If this was how Arnav was reacting to just the sight of her in a sari of his favorite color, Khushi could only wonder what the rest of the night held.

Who knows, maybe tonight, her dreams would come true.

*~*

As Arnav and Khushi headed down to the lobby to go to the hotel's restaurant, the Étoile, miles away, back at Raizada mansion, there was nothing but pleasure and the smell of sex filling the air!

"Shyam!"

"Oh fuck," Shyam grunted as his wife exploded around him for who knows how many times that night.

Anjali gripped onto her husband for dear life as he let out his release within her, his grip tight on her waist while she tightly gripped onto his shoulders. She picked herself off of him, and laid down beside him on her side.

"Round two complete," Anjali grinned.

Shyam smirked at her before giving her a kiss. Anjali continued to grin and wrapped her arms around his, snuggling into him. Moments passed as they recovered from their high, when a thought crossed Anjali's mind.

"Shyam?"

"Yes babe?"

"How did you manage to get these extra few days off?"

Shyam looked down at Anjali, only to find her looking at him already. "I may have pulled a few strings," he smiled softly.

"But you have to go back soon."

It wasn't a question because Anjali already knew the answer. But Shyam answered anyway, confirming her thoughts.

"Yeah, I do, but I'll request for days off again. And heck, I'll even come back on the weekends-"

"Don't be ridiculous, that's a lot of traveling for no reason."

Shyam tucked Anjali's hair behind her ear, caressing her face. "Anything for you and anything for our baby."

Anjali looked down at her tiny bump and Shyam did as well. She placed her hand over it, running her fingers over it. Shyam glanced up at her and saw that Anjali was lost in thought, confirming his suspicions.

"What's really the matter, Rani Saheba?"

Anjali couldn't help her light scoff, but she did give a small smile. "How do you always know?"

Shyam tilted her head back up so that she would look at him once more. "Because I do, and you know you can't hide things from me, so spill - what's really bothering you?"

"I just..." Anjali let out a sigh. "I'm just... I'm worried."

"About what," Shyam asked as his eyebrows scrunched up.

"Well... this case has been taking up so much of your time and what if... what if the case still isn't over by the time the baby is due? What if you're not there when I need you most?"

Shyam was slightly shocked. Ever since he had first met Anjali in high school, she had always been very brave and very strong, and well spoken on any matter. Yet here she was now, in fear that he wouldn't be around for her, when that was all he wanted but couldn't due to work.

He let out a sigh and wrapped his arms around her, and moved her so that she straddled his lap and kept her eyes on him. "Babe, you know I'll always be there for you, there's nothing to worry about. Yes, my case is big, but that doesn't mean I won't drop anything for you and for our unborn child."

"But what if I go into delivery and you're in the middle of your case at court?"

"You best believe I'll ask the judge for forgiveness and get some traffic violations as I speed on over to you," he grinned.

Anjali nudged him, having a small smile of her own. "I'm serious."

"So am I - you won't have this baby alone, I'll always be there for you. And if all goes well, the case will be over before our child arrives."

"You think so? It's been going on for awfully long, why haven't they been able to put him in jail yet?"

"Because Kareem and his people are too smart," Shyam sighed. "No matter what angle we try to get him from, he's already got it covered."

"But everyone in town knows he's a horrible, how could he possibly run for mayor?"

"It's true, we do all know it, but when there's somehow no evidence whatsoever, a guy like him will never face jail, and he's making sure of it, I'm damn sure. Whether he's paid people off for silence or just made them disappear - he's done it. And now finding any shred of evidence against him is just... damn him!"

"Hey, its okay," Anjali soothed. "You'll get him, I know you will. One day or another, something will pop up and you guys will definitely get his ass in jail, I know you will."

Shyam looked up at his wife. Her humble smile made his heart bubble with joy, Shyam feeling grateful that even if he had no family, he still had his amazing wife and this amazing family to always support him.

"Why are you looking at me like that," Anjali blushed, even though her words were teasing.

"Just remembering how lucky I am to have someone like you in my life."

Anjali's eyes slightly widened before she smiled down at him, taking his hand in hers as she placed a kiss on it. "I love you, always."

Shyam caressed her cheek, bringing her down to him. "I love you, too, always," and sealed it with a kiss.

Anjali lost herself to her passions in that moment, kissing her husband back and forgetting her fears. All she knew now was that she loved him and wanted him, so she picked herself up and slid his length within her, sighing against him in contempt.

She wouldn't let her worries get to her, but instead, she would remain confident. She wouldn't be going through this pregnancy alone, but with her loving husband, no matter what.

Chapter Thirty

During the ride there, Khushi sat there awkwardly, feeling a little fidgety on the issue. Anjali sending the two of them away to a hotel after her antics only helped Khushi to understand Anjali's true motives, and the thought of it made Khushi nervous. Yes, it was true that she had wanted to be intimate with Arnav - she still did. But the thought of it actually happening... she was just too nervous.

"Di is honestly just something else," Arnav muttered.

Khushi glanced over at him.

"I mean not just her, but Jeejaji as well. I mean, if they wanted total privacy, why didn't they just stay at the DuMónt?"

Hmm... he has a point.

It wasn't long before the couple arrived to the DuMónt Hotel. Arnav retrieved the large duffel bags from the trunk, Khushi slightly flinching from the sight of the black Gucci duffel bags. While the valet parked the car, Arnav and Khushi made their way through the exquisite lobby, the large, glistening chandelier a remarkable sight to see! Khushi felt tempted to dip her hand in the large fountain that sat in the middle of the lobby but refrained herself. Instead she continued to follow Arnav to the reception desk, where a tall, rather-busted brunette stood, working away on a computer as she spoke into the phone. Seeing the woman, Khushi knew that this woman could get any guy she wanted.

"...of course, you're very welcome," and the receptionist put the phone away just as they reached the desk. "Welcome to the DuMónt, how may I help you?"

"We have a reservation, under Raizada," Arnav said.

"Of course, let me just check, and she clicked away on her computer.

As the woman did, Khushi noticed the woman - who's badge read Rita - was now and then glancing Arnav up and down. Khushi pursed her lips, rather entertained by her, but definitely not feeling a single bit jealous.

She sees me with him, and yet she continues to check him out, she inwardly grinned.

"Ah, yes, and we were able to make the last minute adjustment - two nights in the Penthouse suite..."

Wait, what, two nights?

"...and you made dinner reservations at the Étoile tonight at 8. Here are your key passes for the both of you, and if you take the farthest elevator to the right, it takes you directly up to the Penthouse suite."

Arnav quickly came out of his stunned state and took the key passes. "Uh, thanks."

The couple turned away from the desk and headed to the elevator she had pointed at.

"Is it just me, or did she say two nights," Arnav frowned.

Khushi frowned as well, completely confused.

"Di said one night, so why- but the lady said last minute adjustment... did they extend our stay while we were on our way here? Why?"

Khushi was confused herself, but then she remembered the way she had caught Anjali basically eye-fucking Shyam, and that wasn't the only time she had caught her since they had discovered she was pregnant. At that thought, Khushi figured out why she and Arnav were both practically kicked out of the house, as well as why the workers were given off.

But Khushi wasn't going to let Arnav know this - what would be disturbing to him - fact.

The two of them arrived to the elevator and Arnav swiped his key pass. The doors opened and they got in the elevator, and pressed the button that would take them up to the penthouse. After going up a few floors, the view cleared, displaying the hotel grounds, as well as the ocean. Khushi was stunned by the sight, completely mesmerized! They continued higher and higher up, until they finally arrived to their suite, the doors opening and revealing the room.

Khushi was stunned. Oh my... wow!

As soon as you entered, you were in the living space, the room bright and white, accented with a variety of shades from light blue to teal. To the left was the kitchen space, a dining area right beside it. To the right, a small hall led into the large bedroom, containing the king-sized bed. You could walk out to the patio from there, as well as from the other rooms, as it wrapped the whole side of the suite.

"Di went totally above and beyond," Arnav sighed.

Khushi couldn't agree more, but she was still stunned by the beauty of the suite. She walked around, finally going out to the patio to catch that ocean breeze. It felt so good in comparison to the warmth of the day, and Khushi absolutely loved it. A soft smile played on her lips as she hugged herself, embracing the breeze. Arnav could see how happy Khushi was, and he couldn't help himself and hugged her from behind, burying his face in her hair. Khushi was instantly transported back to the present, and she looked away, biting her lip.

She and Arnav had this entire suite to themselves... for two nights... and Khushi was beyond nervous!

What will happen tonight, I mean.. are we... will it... oh gosh!

Arnav held out his hand, taking a look at his watch, as did Khushi. "Looks like its almost 4 and we've only had breakfast, so lets order in some food."

Khushi nodded, feeling her tummy wiggle. The two headed inside and ordered room service, and it wasn't long before they arrived from the service elevator with their food. Having tipped the man, the worker left and couple dug right in, enjoying their meal. Once that was complete, it was taken away and each went in one by one to take a shower and get ready for the evening. Khushi was interested to know what exactly Anjali had packed for her, so she looked into the duffel bag she had prepared for her. Inside, she found a beautiful red sari for her, and by the looks of it, the sari looked newly bought and expensive.

Very expensive.

Wait a minute, I can't wear this! I mean Avantika showed me this sari online, it's designer! I can't wear this at all!

"That's a rather nice looking sari."

Khushi turned around to see Arnav, wearing only a pair of sweats. She felt a little nervous, being only in a robe, but tried hard not to let it show. However, Arnav had already seen it, but he didn't want for her to feel uncomfortable, so he pretended not to notice that she was only in a robe with nothing on underneath and focused on the sari... with great effort.

"It's nothing like what we've got at AR, but then again, we are just the best."

Khushi rolled her eyes at his arrogance and Arnav smirked.

"I'll leave you to get ready," and Arnav left the room, shutting the door behind him.

Khushi let out a sigh and looked back at the sari. She really didn't have any other options to wear for dinner, given that all she had was this sari and regular clothes to wear at night.

Thanks a lot Di, and you had to shove in another night why?!

Khushi felt her heart beginning to thump and it made its way to her ears. She clutched her robe over her heart, begging it to calm down.

Why are you getting nervous, don't get nervous, everything will be just fine, don't-!

Khushi's eyes caught hold of her reflection in the mirror. She noticed the big bed beside her and she turned to look at it. If things went well, then there was a chance that she and Arnav...

Oh my... now that the hours are ticking down, the possibility of that is only getting closer and closer. And I... oh gosh, get it together Khushi! It's not guaranteed to happen! Just relax, get ready, and have a wonderful evening. Okay? ...yeah, I'm gonna do just that, get ready and enjoy myself, perfect! Alright then....

Cringing one more time at the expensive sari, Khushi forced herself to get over it and put it on. All she could worry about now was wearing it and looking decent for the night, although it seemed Anjali had planned it all properly, even getting her new makeup, down to even a new sponge. Khushi sighed at the sight, but she once again pushed it away and got ready.

The night was only beginning - who knew how it was going to end.

Chapter Twenty Nine

Later that evening, as soon as she could, Anjali called Shyam the moment he got off of work. When she told her husband the news and even showed him the 2 positive pregnancy tests through video chat, the couple were in tears, full of excitement! Shyam immediately planned for a day off and quickly came home, and the couple went to the doctors for full confirmation. When they saw their little peanut on the screen, neither could hold back their tears of happiness. Even the family was unable to hold back when Anjali and Shyam revealed the news with a picture from the sonogram.

Amoli was absolutely excited, along with Vijay, but no one could beat Deviyani's excitement, who was beyond excited that she was going to have a great-grandchild. Avantika bubbled with joy and Arnav was very happy for his sister and brother in-law, already knowing from Shyam how much they had wanted this. Of course, when everyone found out Khushi already knew, they were a little annoyed because they weren't the first to know, but they quickly got over it.

Given the big news, Shyam was given some time off of his big case, and he spent practically every waking moment with Anjali. Due to her pregnancy, the two would not be going to the Kapoor's camping trip. Although it should be mentioned that by camping trip, it really wasn't exactly that.

You see, the Kapoor's owned this plot of land, where they had built up a large, grand farmhouse with a guesthouse. Every year, they would host their so called camping trip and invite the big families, and while the elders stayed in the main house, the kids stayed in the guesthouse. As far as camping activities went, then it would be making smores around the built firepit, and that was about it. The rest of it was all glitz and glamour.

The family agreed that even though she would've been completely comfy, that it was best for Anjali not to go, so she and Shyam would stay behind. Avantika had finally decided that she would go, but only because she had heard a rumor that Sana was going to make a move on Virat, and she was not going to let that happen. But knowing her granddaughter well, Deviyani knew at one point or another that Avantika would chicken out, so she decided to go and make sure she wouldn't. Amoli and Vijay were happy to go as well, but neither Arnav nor Khushi wanted to go. His parents did try to convince them, but an idea sparked in Anjali's mind, and she convinced them that it was better that they didn't go, Anjali "needing" a female in case Shyam was incapable, and if that were the case, Arnav would keep him busy. Vijay didn't exactly understand, but chose not to question it, while Amoli understood. So in the end, it was agreed that Arnav, Khushi, Anjali, and Shyam would stay behind while the rest went.

And to be honest, Anjali couldn't wait for them all to leave! She had set her plan in motion and she just needed them all gone in order to execute it. So one could only imagine how irritated she was, getting rather impatient as her family slowly started getting in their car to leave. And one can also even imagine how ecstatic she was when they finally left.

"Ugh, finally! They're gone," she exclaimed with a roll of her eyes.

"Rani saheba," Shyam scowled while Arnav and Khushi frowned at her.

"Oh come on babe, you know how badly I've been waiting for this moment," but Shyam just rolled his eyes with a small grin, hard as he tried not to.

"Um, did I not get the memo on something," Arnav frowned.

"Yes because it's a surprise!"

"What the-? Surprise?"

Anjali rolled her eyes. "Oh honestly Chote, do you always have to say that," and Khushi pursed her lips, trying hard not to grin.

"Anyways," Anjali continued, "I've been planning a surprise for quite some time now that'll make all of us happy!"

"And... what exactly is that," Arnav asked.

"Well, with the help of your jeejaji, I was able to plan the perfect evening for us! Obviously, since we have a baby on the way, we wanted a... private moment alone. Given that almost everyone is gone, that works out perfectly for us, but as for you two, I've planned something perfect for the both of you!"

Both Arnav and Khushi looked at her in confusion.

"Since everyone is basically gone, I thought I'd help you two take full advantage of this moment, so I've made reservations for you two for dinner tonight at the Étoile and- babe, drumroll please..."

Shyam mimicked a drumroll, further confusing the couple.

"...a one-night stay at the DuMónt!"

Both Arnav and Khushi widened their eyes.

"W-what," Arnav sputtered.

"I know! Isn't it perfect," Anjali gushed.

Both Arnav and Khushi quickly glanced at each other and quickly looked away.

"Oh don't be shy! Every couple needs their privacy and voila! You're very welcome," she grinned.

Khushi looked down at the ground. This cannot be happening, I mean a night with Arnav at a hotel, I mean... I... hai DM, raksha karna!

"Di-!"

"Up pup pup, I won't hear another word, and no need to thank me. Now I've taken liberty of packing some overnight things you two may need, and have put them in two duffel bags for you two to take. Shyam has even already put it in the trunk of your car."

"What the-"

"I've even planned down to the last detail, you're very welcome, now off you two go!"

"Wait what-?"

"Come on," she said, leading them to Arnav's car. "Not a moment to lose!"

Khushi was in shock.

"Di-"

"Don't worry about mom and dad, I doubt there's even good service out there, but if anything, we'll take care of it."

"But-"

"Don't worry about a thing Saleh Saab," Shyam said. "We've got it all under control."

"But-"

"That's right, so go enjoy yourselves," Anjali beamed.

Arnav and Khushi stood by his car and looked at each other. They looked at the couple in front of them, who was simply beaming away at them. But if you looked carefully, you could see that they wanted them gone and immediately. And based on the look on his sister's face, Arnav knew that he didn't have long until his sister burst on him.

Honestly, ever since she became pregnant, she's been worse than Avantika, he thought to himself.

"Fine, we're getting out of your hair," Arnav frowned.

Khushi looked at Arnav in shock as he went around to get in the driver's seat. She looked back at Anjali and saw her come forward to hug her.

"Don't forget to stay safe," Anjali whispered.

Khushi felt her cheeks heat up as Anjali pulled away. She heard Arnav's car come to life, and without another thought, she got in, avoiding any eye contact with Anjali. They bid their farewells and Arnav pulled out of the driveway. Anjali and Shyam watched as the car slowly disappeared, and Anjali sighed, resting her head on her husband's shoulder as she wrapped her arms around him.

"Babe, you still never told me why you wanted us home instead of us spending the night at the hotel," Anjali said, resting her chin on his shoulder.

Shyam looked down at her before turning to her and holding her, his hands over her tiny baby bump. Although she wasn't as noticeable yet, Anjali's baby bump was very evident to him and he absolutely loved the sight of it. Anjali could tell he was distracted, too busy admiring her little baby bump as he ran his thumb over it.

"I can't believe this is really happening," Shyam nearly whispered.

"It is," Anjali replied, her tone matching his.

Shyam met her eyes and Anjali smiled softly in return. He placed a soft kiss over her lips before resting his forehead against hers.

"You still haven't answered my question," Anjali pouted.

Shyam couldn't help his chuckle and pulled back to get a good look of his wife, caressing her cheek. "Babe, do you remember our honeymoon?"

"Of course," Anjali grinned, remembering the numerous naughty, steamy moments.

Shyam could tell exactly what his wife was thinking of, based on the gleam in her eyes. "Remember the complaints we got for making too much noise," he smirked.

Anjali's eyes widened as her cheeks heated. "Yes," she nearly whispered.

Shyam leaned over by her ear. "Well I plan on making you scream, and with no one around to complain, it'll make things much easier," and he nipped at her ear.

Anjali shuddered, gripping onto her husband's shirt. His tone was very promising, and of course teasing, but she knew that with the intentions he had, he was bound to get what he wanted.

"Oh, and did I mention I gave all of the workers the day off?"

Anjali bit her lip and turned away - they really, truly did have the house to themselves.

Shyam bent down and picked his wife up into his arms, and walked towards the house. Anjali wrapped her arms around his neck, burying her blushing face. A night of passion was definitely in store for this couple.

The question is, is there a night of passion in store for another couple as well?

Chapter Twenty Eight

"Khushi, you have to promise you won't tell anybody."

Khushi looked at Anjali in confusion. Why not?

"It's a process Khushi. First, I have to tell Shyam about this and I won't even be able to do that until the evening when he's done with work. After that, I'm going to make a doctor's appointment just to be sure. If I really, truly am pregnant, then I'll tell everyone. I know most people like to wait till after their first trimester is over but I need Ma and Nani, I need their expertise, and I definitely can't do this alone."

Well, that's understandable... I can respect that.

Khushi took hold of her hand and nodded.

 "Thank you Khushi... and I'm sorry that my pregnancy brain got a little crazy about you doing the deed."

What-? Di! Khushi widened her eyes at her.

"What, I'm sorry, I'm pregnant."

Khushi frowned at her.

"Hey, don't be mean to a pregnant woman. I'm moody."

Khushi continued to give her the same look.

"Okay fine, I won't be using that as an excuse, but just you wait until that time starts, I'm going to drive everyone insane, don't give me that face then."

Fine, and she rolled her eyes with a grin.

"Anyways, back to the topic."

Khushi pursed her lips.

"Look, years ago you told me that you would do the deed with Chote, and I'm still happy that you were very honest with me. I'm still glad that you turn to me for anything and everything, Khushi, always. Yes I know, I shouldn't have opened my mouth, but we both now understand why I did it, and unfortunately, I can't turn back the hands of time to stop myself from blurting to Chote that you would have sex with him, eww."

Hai DM, what do I... sigh!

"Just... don't worry about it. And I'm sure once he hears about my pregnancy he'll understand where the craziness was coming from and he'll relax as well. Right?"

I hope so....

"Now then, forget I even said anything, and go have some fun with my brother, I've stolen his girlfriend for long enough."

Well I am done with my work so... I should go see him.

With a nod, Khushi got up and headed to the door.

"And remember, stay safe!"

Khushi looked at Anjali in shock, but the woman simply waved her hand at her and smiled, her other hand over her tummy.

I... forget it.

Khushi walked down the halls and went to Arnav's study. She found Arnav inside, working away on his laptop at his desk.

"Oh hey, what's up?"

Khushi shook her head and shut the doors behind her. She went over to Arnav and sat down in his lap, Arnav holding her.

"Missed me," Arnav smiled.

Khushi nodded. Truth be told, she did. Ever since Anjali had spilled the beans, she had made things slightly awkward, but Khushi now understood Arnav's strange behavior and why Anjali did what she had, but she was going to look past the awkwardness and pretend like nothing had been said.

"Khushi there's... there's something I need to talk to you about."

Khushi's eyebrows met in the middle.

"Um.... The other day, Di said something to me..."

Oh no.

"...about you... about you being okay with us being... intimate."

Khushi looked down at her lap, blushing red.

"Is that... is that true?"

Khushi refused to look at him, her cheeks flaming up, confirming Arnav's suspicions.

"Um... I know there have been a few occasions where we went kinda far..."

No kidding, Khushi thought, remembering the few times they had gone a little farther away from just kissing.

"...but I always made sure to stop things from going too far because I didn't want to make you uncomfortable and... yeah...."

Khushi toyed with his shirt over his chest.

Arnav sighed. "The truth is... I mean... I...."

Khushi looked up at him. She could see that he was struggling to get the right words, but his flustered state told her what he was trying to say. The moment she understood it, she blushed, and she buried her face in his neck. Arnav understood that Khushi had figured what he was trying to say and felt somewhat relieved that he didn't need to word it out, in fear that his words would come out in such a way that would make him seem like a douchebag.

Arnav placed his hand in Khushi's hair and tilted her head up so that she would look at him. Her cheeks were heated red and Khushi refused to meet his gaze. Arnav couldn't help the blooming feeling in his heart, he really couldn't. He placed a kiss on her heated cheek before capturing her lips with his.

If the moment ever came where the two could be intimate, Arnav vowed that he would make it the most beautiful moment of her life. He would make her forget everything bad that had ever happened to her and only fill her with happiness - so much happiness, that maybe it would help to make Khushi speak again.

And he couldn't wait for the day he would hear his name from her lips again.