FF - Plot twist

Chapter 16 - The execution

The next moment, a big tough-textured paper ball hit his face, rather stingingly, which was probably because Khushi threw it with extreme force. Brushing the cut formed, he looked at her confused, grabbing the paper.

"Sorry, Shyamji!!! Read it." And before he could grasp anything, she went away.

Opening the paper, 'I need to talk with you. It's urgent. Hoping you will meet me at the terrace in 5 minutes. Make sure no one notices. I will be waiting for you.'

He couldn't believe it. Here, he was struggling in making plans to see her, and there, she wanted to meet him, too. This one letter was enough to forget every other problem. He could not let this chance go. Determined to convince Khushi, he set off to terrace after making sure everyone was engrossed in deep talks.

As winter neared, it became dark though the time was just 6PM. Even in the dim light, he could see Khushi standing in the middle of the terrace waiting for him. As if sensing his presence, she turned around and gave a small smile.

My Khushiji. My Angel!!!

Returning a full grin, he went near her.

"What happened, Khushiji? What do you want to talk about?" Shyam asked, putting up a concerned face.

"Uhh...umm.....Shyamji I....I have to..... Umm.... Ho..how are you feeling?" Seeing his confused face, "I...I mean how is your health now?" Khushi asked, stepping forward.

Joy bubbled inside him with just that simple query.

"I..I am fine now, Khushiji. How did you know?"

"Anjaliji told me that you weren't feeling well for the past 2 weeks, so, I...I got worried for you." She told, her face reflecting genuine concern.

"Oh! Wow! I never expected you would worry about me." He blurted before he could stop.

"Why wouldn't I?" Khushi whispered as she neared him.

"B..because you don't like me. At least, that is what you always say."

"Yes, I didn't like you for what you did to my family, but.. I guess, I cannot say the same anymore."

His head began reeling. "What? She likes me now?!!"

"Khushiji, you are okay, right?"

"Of course, I am okay! Why did you ask?" She said frowning.

"Here is your chance, Shyam. Take a dare!"

"You never talked sweetly with me after....umm I kind of betrayed you. What happened now? Am I not the same fraud anymore to you? Do you like me now?" Shyam asked, hoping the best for him.

Smiling softly, "You see, human heart and feelings are so complexed, and I am no different." She said.

Shyam stood still not understanding what to expect from her answer. It was totally unlike Khushi. If him remaining distant for some days from her started to make her realize her feelings for him, he'd gladly do that more, he vowed.

"When I came to know you were unwell, instead of feeling nothing I strangely felt worried about you and that confused me. It confused me because all this time I kept myself telling how much I hate you. Then where did the concern come from, Shyamji? I am puzzled!" Khushi said.