SS: Poolside Prayer - Part 1

Part 1

Khushi slipped away quietly being unable to fake a smile any longer. She stopped by the pool and closed her eyes against all the memories that were threatening to ruin her composure.

'Devi Maiyya, I asked you for a sign and now you've given it. I think I understand. The marriage is in everybody's best interests. It has to happen, whether I want it to or not.

'What makes you think you have a say in my wedding?'

Khushi froze when she heard him speak and slowly lowered her hands as she turned to face his accusing gaze. 'I... I wasn't talking about your wedding.'

'Then?' 

She walked backwards as Arnav walked closer to where she was standing. 'I was talking about...m...m...mine.'

Arnav stopped his advancing steps at her words, 'yours?'

'My... my w...wedding has also been arranged.' When Arnav didn't move or speak she edged past him and back towards the sliding doors.

'Khushi.'

Khushi stopped even though she didn't want to and turned to look at him. He still hadn't moved and was still facing the spot where she had been standing previously.

'You might be able to just stand and watch while I get married to someone else. But don't think,' he turned then and looked at her with a formidable expression 'not even for one second. That I'm going to just stand by and let you do the same.'

Khushi stared at the anger evident in his eyes for a few seconds before she turned and ran away from the very person she desperately wanted to run towards.