CHAPTER 24.1 – NO MASQUERADEs or FILTERs..PLEASE!!

4 years ago

mysticaltales11111

@mysticltales111

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee

So here I am today ,with a Update. It's a Long – 8k plus word Update, everyoneeee!!

Will be Eager to know what you all think, as alwayssss.

Thank you so much for your amazing feedback uptill now Guys.

And yes this is the First Draft. Please definitely ignore editing/common repition of words errors etc – since I have not proofread.

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The Moral Right of the Author has been asserted. All Rights Reserved. This Story is published subject to the condition that it shall not be reproduced or transmitted/distributed in whole or in part, in any manner, whether in electronic or in hard copy, without the written consent of the author, and any infringement of this is a violation of Copyright Law.

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CHAPTER 24

CHAPTER 24.1 – NO MASQUERADEs or FILTERs..PLEASE!!

TWO DAYS LATER – 18 TH MAY, 2019

Hridhaan, smiles to himself, as he looks at the sight of Shivani, Jess and Khushi, still in the middle of their, flight Nap, as he walks back to his seat, in the flight. They were all currently en-route Mumbai to see the IPL finals in between of Mumbai VS Bangalore, which was to be played at the Wankhede, tonight – and they were scheduled to land in Mumbai, at 2PM. (Which was an hour from now)

He takes his seat, next to his best friend – Vikram(whom he had known for years now, since they also studied together at the boarding school, Mayo College Ajmer, for a couple of years in middle school, and then had reunited as best buddies at their time in London, as they both studied at the same university and trained at the same club in London, for Polo. After the two relocated back to India, from London, Hridhaan went back home to Jaipur and Vikram went back home to Gurgaon and resumed to play for the respective Polo Clubs in their cities, domestically. But irrespective of the affiliation, to different Polo Clubs, domestically, they both played for the National Polo Team, for India, as well.)

Vikram grins at his best friend, as he says – " and I just think, I saw you smiling to yourself, while stealing a glance at Khushi again.."

Hridhaan chuckles as he says, leaning in sideways to talk to his buddy – " well, I did smile to myself, Vikram but I wasn't really stealing a glance at khushi, I mean the three of them are sitting right next to us anyway, in the parallel row, so my gaze just went that way by default as I was walking back..and to be honest, I am just happy to see Shivi so relaxed with Jess and Khushi, you know in the last two days that we were in Delhi, Khushi really guided Shivi a lot with her interests in cricket, and how she could go about her training, infact they just didn't guide her, they played and practised with her too.It definitely means a lot to Shivi.."

Vikram smiles – " yes I know that, I am happy for Shivi, as she's getting genuine sincere guidance, from these two..you do know that Shivi is like my little sister as well, I mean since you know I am the only one otherwise.."and he pauses and he asks – " but, no seriously, the minute you introduced Khushi and Jess to me, at the Polo club the other day, I just thought to myself, I'v never seen Hridhaan, making genuine efforts at stealing a glance at any girl ever, in the ways you were stealing glances at her all day, that afternoon, so correct me if I am wrong buddy, but I know I am not, she has caught your interest hasn't she??"

Hridhaan sighs as he admits with a little smile – "well yes, to that...she's very intriguing, there's something about her that finds its way, to the back of my head always, it's been that way ever since I met her actually...I mean it's not like I am telling myself – oh lets think about Khushi, all the time, but I guess it's just been happening, nonetheless.."

Vikram winks at his friend – "which is great, Hridhaan, I mean you should be grinning then right? as in, your Mom and her mother have known each other since their boarding school days, and to your luck, they'v now reconnected as well, and are back to being bonded as great friends, so why not seriously think about pursuing Khushi maybe, if she really interests you, I mean you did tell me that you hit it off with her Dad too, right?i don't think, the elders will have an issue to this potential interest brewing up, in the background.."

Hridhaan smiles, and admits with a sigh – "and this is exactly where I tell you, that I wish I could just act on impulse buddy, and pursue her, but sadly I can't.."

Vikram asks confused – " and why not??"

Hridhaan shrugs – " well, because she's got her someone special already..."

Vikram asks – " really? did she tell you that??herself? or Shivi told you that..?"

Hridhaan nods – " yup, she did,as in Khushi told me, not Shivi and it was right before, we were boarding the flight today...so,you know the other day when I met her at the Sawai Man Singh mid game, she was a little upset about something personal, and I did talk to her a little about it, and told her that I wished that things got sorted for her soon, and well, in the last two days, or just basically ever since we reached Delhi, iv obviously also observed her smiling to herself a lot while texting away into her phone as well,when she thinks no one is noticing..."

Vikram nods – " clearly, you noticed it though, because you'd probably been stealing glances at her, right?"

Hridhaan nods – " yup...so anyway..this morning, I just thought I'll ask her about this cryptically, because somehow it just felt that one of the main reasons why anyone could be so lost in their phones and smiling so happily to one's self while texting is that, probably it's just someone very special on the other end, that they are in touch with...so yeah then, I just asked her, if the personal issue that she was worried about then, has been sorted now and she was all like – Oh Yes Hridhaan, its more than just sorted, to be honest, I'v never really been Happier, and then I obviously asked her if this was about someone special and she grinned so widely and nodded her head in five consecutive nods stating in a second, that yes it was all about her someone special, and I obviously wished her all the best for everything, and it was right then that the boarding began...so yeah..that piece of information is surely a bummer for me, or maybe the better word would, be Hard luck...but you know I would never cross the line, knowing this, so I think we are just going to be good friends, maybe? I mean I would surely want to be good friends with her, at the least.."

Vikram nods – " sorry buddy, but yeah not pursuing her, would be the right thing to do, and also for yourself too, I mean no point in giving yourself any false hope, in here, if she's already got someone else in her life...."

Hridhaan nods – " yup..you are right about that, don't worry, I will figure out a way of re-aligning the thoughts in my head "and he pauses and asks his friend – " but how about we talk about you for a Bit...you'v kind off hit it off with Jess too, and that too quite instantly, I don't remember seeing you get so comfortably talking around any girl so soon ever, since you aren't the very talkative one, yourself...but you'v been talking quite a bit to her..."

Vikram nods as he says with a grin – " well, she's quite intriguing to my head, I mean you know iv always had a deep respect for women in all kinds of sport, and I respect her point of views, she's got a strong mind, and well, yes lest just say I am interested in getting to know her more, for now..."

Hridhaan smiles as he says – " good luck with that, and wait, is she single though? or has someone special? I suggest you do check with her on the same, if you haven't already? I wouldn't want to say the words, hard luck to you buddy"

Vikram nods as he says – " thank you for that suggestion, ill check with her cryptically as soon as we land, for sure..."and he leans a little to the side as he looks at the three girls still sleeping and he grins at Hridhaan – " yup, ill have to wait until landing to check on that bit for sure, since I do think that they might just sleep through the flight.."

Hridhaan nods and he looks sideways ,and as he spots that carefree mesmerising smile on Khushi's face, as she slept, he says to himself in his head again – HARD LUCK – Hridhaan Singh Rajput – HARD LUCK – INDEED.

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Authors Note - Attaching a Picture of Jess + Vikram( Winkkkk😉😉)

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At Trident – Nariman Point

1:55 PM

Arnav's POV

Guys.

Guess what??

I literally finished my lunch today, at the speed of light. I am literally the first one to finish my meal, at the huge table, at which all of us players from our Bangalore, team plus the Mumbai team were indulging in the lunch buffet.

Why?

In excitement – of course.Because, My Precious Sparkle is about to land in Mumbai any minute now. And after she gets into the Car, it will take her, about a little over an hour to reach the Hotel.In my head, I am anticipating a timeline of about 30 minutes from her landing time – to the time she actually gets in the Car. So if I were to calculate that entire transit time, I reckon – she shall be here, at the Trident, Nariman Point by 330 PM.( It's a good thing that some Luck is in my favour as well as our team's strategy meetings and discussions, are scheduled immediately after lunch in between of 215 – 330 PM, as everyone wants to get that time off individually by themselves to just relax in between of 330 pm – 530 pm, before we regroup again and leave for Wankhede, at around 615pm , for the IPL FINALS, tonight.Also, Akash, Payal and Noor will arrive , at the Hotel by around 5ish or 530ish, since they will only land in Mumbai at around 4pm. So basically, I am so excited because I am really looking forward to spend some good time with Khushi in between of that 330 – 530 PM – because that's exactly what I need to just relax and calm my nerves further, before the Final – tonight.

Her.

To just, bask in Happiness with the feel of her in my arms.It's anyway been a little difficult for me to keep on that mask of Comfort on in front of her in these last two days, and not give away any of that inner uncomfortable turmoil of Envious conflict to her, away – because like I said earlier, I do want to come across as a composed gentleman on Mr.Polo's angle, in front of Khushi, because I know, to her - he is only just a friend, and Shivi's elder brother.

I smile to myself a little as I remember how My Sparkle – in her usual adorable animated dramatic ways, has literally filled me in on every detail of what had been happening around her as and when it happened, in these last couple of ways with regards to be it Shivani, Hridhaan or their mother, or her parent's equation with them, so much so that even though I was technically not physically present in those moments next to her, I already know everything – nonetheless.The fact that she literally tells me everything, with every bit of the detail in it, is kind off like an added sprinkly gold-dusty Shimmer in my Life – Indeed. To be honest, I am feeling a little guilty about the fact that I haven't talked to her about my envious conflict with regards to Mr.Polo. A part of me obviously wants to, whereas the other part of me is tangled up with the thoughts that, maybe telling this out loud to her, might make her think this is me, being immature or childish, or worse – non trusting for the matter.

I am right on that Thought, when my phone beeps. I pick it up instantly, hoping that its Khushi's text telling me that she's just landed.

But it isn't.Its Anjali. I am still grinning as I read her text – nonetheless. Why? You all will know the minute, I reveal the details of her text. So yup here it Goes.

Anjali : bhai, I am just going to share the snapshot of my final ticket bookings.

Anjali : snapshot of her tickets.

Just as I am about to reply. My Phone buzzes with Anjali's call and I gesture to Rohan, and Ravi, Cap, Veer, who were in the immediate seats around me( they were just about to finish eating their lunch too) that I gotta excuse myself, because I gotta take this call. They nod at me with a grin and I walk out the restaurant and make my way out to the little outdoor patio in the surroundings and pick up, Anjali's call.

Anjali says – " bhai...you saw the tickets? Both me and Rahul are landing at IGI, Delhi on 20th Morning 10 am. Also yes, Rahul is saying that he is going to be talking to his parents on 20th itself, I am thinking the same too, as in you will be back Home on 19th night only na...so maybe, you, me and Akash can talk to Mom and Dad about this on 20th too, so that the elders can connect the next day and maybe we can all then hopefully arrange for a dinner meeting at home/ as in our place or theirs for the 22nd, because it's like your b'day too. Will that work? As in You don't have any other Bday plans with the Boys na?

I grin to myself as I say – "Nope. No other Bday plans at all dear sister. If we are able to arrange for this combined family dinner in between both our familys on the 22nd night, then I really have to say that would like my bestest bday gift ever...you know since I'd be the happiest brother on that day too..."

Anjali - " aww thank you bhai. Its such a bummer that we are missing watching on your finals though as in live, we will be watching it here anyway, we are all going to this awesome place where its going to be only cricket lovers watching the screening of the IPL final. Sorry bhai..about that again, but what to do, you came up with this amazing idea so last minute, this was the earliest we could arrange, also we are planning to return to Nottingham by the 25/26th. Lets see, how it goes with everyone, and everything...all will be well no bhai?? Please, also call me before you leave for the Stadium. Both Rahul and me, do want to wish you nicely.."

Me - " yes, all will be well Anj.dont you worry at all. We got this. And yes I will obviously call you before we leave for the stadium too, akash, payal and noor will also reach around 530 I guess..."

Anjali - "yes bhai. Also yes, bhai a quick favour. Ok not ,a favour, a reminder. Khushi is going to be there too at the Trident today, as in she's enroute to Mumbai only just now with a group of friends to see the IPL final tonight, just incase you do spot her in public in the hotel or something, please remember to pretend as if you do not know her, yet. I have messaged the same to Akash too. You know how Rahul's so protective about any of this having any sort of an attention/limelight shifting impact from Khushi's gaming career as a cricketer, too..."

I grin as I hear that. Don't worry at all dear sister. Only if you knew, that it isn't just Rahul who is worried about this.

I answer - " yes, don't worry about anything at all Anj. If I spot Khushi, I will totally pretend as if I don't know her at all..."

Anjali - "ok great bhai...I gotta rush now. Speak later...also Akash said he will share the details with Dad and for now just tell him that I am flying back for a couple of days to just surprise you for your Bday.we are going to keep this cover only k? I mean until we talk it out with him..i am a little worried about his reaction though...it will be ok right??"

I chuckle as I reply – " yes, no worries Anj, we will keep that cover, and please don't worry about his reaction.Mom's done the background work and then Dadi, Me and akash are there right? we will handle him – if he tries to go into a denial mode.ok?"

Anjali – "I have the bestest brothers in the whole wide world, but know what bhai??khushi says the same for Rahul, too. Do you know I am like in touch with her all the time through whtsapp or on calls, we also talk everyday as she calls up Rahul. She is such a swweetheart. I love her so much already! Ok gotta rush now bhai...."

Ok Guys. I am back to Grinning- Insane. I am obviously aware about what Anjali is telling me, because well my Sparkle tells me everything, remember? But it just makes me feel really great to hear Anjali say this.

" ok.. bye Anj.Speak soon...," and we hang up.

And just as I hang up, and take my seat in a chair, in outdoor seating area, my Phone beeps.

It's My Sparkle.

I open my WhatsApp, leaning back comfortably into the chair.

Her : heyyyy youuu My Strangerrr...we just Landed. Actually, still on the runway in taxi, and well obviously I could not wait to just switch on my phone to text you ya....like omg...you have no idea how hyper excited the YO- YO's in the pit of my stomach + intestines are, at the thought of just seeing you in like a while!!! I am so so so excited. So freaking excited that I could stand up in my seat and dance in glee.( ok please note, technically I am not doing that, but all of my Insides are indulging in an imaginary gleeful dance anyway. The Supreme Courts of the heart have declared an official holiday in your name, today – you know as in like, we are taking a day off, so that we can offically get all lost into ArnavLand...(hearts)

I grin as I read that.

Me : ok so honestly Sparkle, I was keeping my eye out on my phone for your text since the last five minutes, hoping you'd land a little earlier.Then Anjali called, was just speaking to her.Both her and Rahul's tickets are confirmed. Please note that my Insides are collectively as excited too just see you too. And I really like the sound of ArnavLand(winks). How was the flight??

Her : oh yes, bhai messaged me too that their plan is confirmed. As in I just saw it after landing, I am super glad that you came up with this idea ya Arnav...as in its going to be so good for bhai and Anjali, you know he's been wanting to formalise things for a while now...so am like so excited about all of that to actually happen. Also, yes...the flight was great Arnav...I slept through most of it, after the snacks bit, because sleep was the only way I could counter my excitement no, or the whacky me would just walk to the pilot and be like – sir, can you please increase the speed you are flying this plane at? You know so that we can reach Mumbai faster...(winkssss). And you really like the sound of ArnavLand?Wait wait I will tell you all about its inception when I actually meet you in real time as in not on text. So anyway, right before I slept, I just kind off just had you on my mind as I closed my eyes, which served as My exact Noise Cancelling headphones and enjoyed a deep relaxing slumber with a smile on my Face, for real. Like why can't I just stop thinking off you, as in I obviously do not want to stop thinking off You. But it's Like – Your thoughts are dominating all of me, like all the time. How Crazy am I turning for you?Please tell me where can I find that self-declaration form, where in – I declare myself absolutely Nuts and Crazy about You. Or wait?? Why don't I just make one myself? You know like the Promissory Summon?(winks)

I chuckle as I read that.

Me : now that's a self declaration form I would really be interested in reading, Sparkle.(winks ) please know, I will be copying your template for the very same, this time too.also, how was the flight for everyone else?

Her : haha...very funny...a self-disclaimer form coming up soon for you then...and the flight was good for everyone, I guess, since they are all smiling and are all relaxed. Jess and Shivani also slept for most of the flight. Hridhaan and Vikram were awake though, and I think they were amidst their Polo talks and everything. You had lunch?? Also you did say that the strategy meetings and everything will start soon post lunch too...so i hope I am not keeping you late or something?? I mean, it is the finals afterall.(also, we are all getting off the plane now...you know we all just have cabin bags mostly, no check in luggage, so I anticipate us getting into the car in another 15- 20 minutes, since Hridhaan and Vikram are suggesting, we pick up some snacks and sandwiches on the way to munch on , in the car. We should be making a move in the car by 230ish I guess.

Me : that's exactly what I was thinking too Sparkle, which means you will be here by 330 Pm mostly, yes please definitely catch up on a little snack in the car as well. Also please, you aren't keeping me late from anything...ok?why would you even say that Sparkle? Don't worry about that at all. We still have a couple of minutes to the meetings since it only starts by 215PM. And yes, I finished lunch and everyone else is just finishing up on it. I JUST CANNOT WAIT TO SEE YOU.It's, a good thing that the meetings are going to keep me occupied until your arrival. Spenind some time with Just You – is exactly what I need, before the final tonight.

Her : I JUST CANNOT WAIT TO SEE YOU TOO.Also yes, I do need to fill you in about a little conversation I had with Hridhaan, just before boarding. I didn't text you about it before take off, because I want to like tell you like face to face. Remind me about the same ok?please?

I feel my Insides twich,as I read that.What conversation did Mr.Polo have with my Innocent Precious, Sparkle now?

Me : yes,okay Khushi. I will remind you about the same, for sure.

I see Rohan and Ravi, now gesture me from afar to come and join them and I quickly text Khushi, that I gotta go.

Me: Sparkle, gotta rush now.Rohan and Ravi are gesturing me to join them back. Rohan's heading into a meeting with the Mumbai unit too, and we are heading into ours.

Her : no worries at all Arnav, please carry on. All the best for the meeting. Reminder to keep your phone on silent for the same - for I will be dropping you a couple of texts as I am in the car and we leave from the airport, and everything – but I also do not want my texts to disturb you in the meeting...so yes..pakka se keep your phone on silent...thike? Or I will feel guilty about disturbing you..(hearts)

Me : you know, you can never disturb me Sparkle.

Her : I know that, Arnav, but you know what I mean, right? acha now go go go...and I shall see you soooooooonnnnnnnishhhhhhh..OMG I am so Happy as I write this – like all of me is back to dancing in the Dreamy ArnavLand, already!! Please don't reply now.

I smile to myself as I read that, and keep my phone inside in my pocket and make my way indoors.Just as I step in, Rohan nudges me from the side as he says – " and I just bet with Ravi, that you were talking to your secretive someone, just now? As in the smile on your face totally gave you away to us buddy.."

I chuckle as I look at Ravi and wink at them both – " and well , I know that the two of you bet the same thing..."

We all share a warm laugh and minutes later,Rohan says – " cmon, lets get going – our teams are on their way up as well.."

We nod and start walking and right then Cap walks to us and I wink at him as I ask – " Say what Cap? Whom are you rooting for the win tonight? Bangalore or Mumbai.."

Cap looks to and fro from in between Rohan to me and Ravi, and says with a wink– " and that's a tricky question, I do not want to answer my brother's..let's just say, I am just looking forward to enjoy a kickass IPL finale, with my feet up, and see the two of you go into intense gaming zones on the field..."

We all share a warm laugh and Rohan and me pat each other's arm, happily as we all get into the elevator and high five as a way of raising an imaginary toast, as we say the words we always do to each other, while playing as Captains, to two opposing teams in the IPL – " for the love of Cricket. Irrespective the result, its going to be a good game anyway.."

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3:25 PM

Khushi's POV

Guys.

Dearest Google, is mostly always right no?? As in, in terms of its Google, maps – function atleast????

I mean – it better be, because I really contain the Yo-Yo Excitement flips, within the pit of my stomach+ Intestines, at the thought of just five minutes remaining, for us to reach the Hotel.And the funniest thing, is that I have to put up, this normal straight face(even though my Insides are in a Non – stop, dancing mode) because I am , surrounded by Shivi, Hridhaan and Vikram too, in the car – no? As in, if it were Jess – I'd be openly grinning from ear to ear - end.

Would Arnav's meeting be over too, by now?Also wait – I obviously want to spend some good time with him, but how do I like meet him?

I groan at my Insides. Guys you were all so busy dancing in glee, that we almost forget to figure this bit out.

My Insides regroup in unison as they say. Oops K. Sorry about that, but you cant really blame us for being this excited * infinity*infinity*infinity, right? please give us a second to figure this out.Collective Discussion on.

I am right on that thought, when my phone vibrates.

Its Jess, texting me on Whatsapp.

Jess : you can thank me for this later. I came up with the perfect plan, to help you and Mr Stranger get some time alone.

I grin as I read that.

Me : Jess, thank you* infinity already. I was just thinking the same. Whats this plan?

Jess : I will help him sneak to your room Khushi.Obviously, as in I will watch out the corridor as in like on guard,(under the casual pretence of just loitering around the lanes of it) so that he can get in when the corridors empty and there's no one who'd recognise him. Just do me a favour though – ask SB to keep his Cap or a Hoodie on his head, and have his head dipped in his phone whilst he is walking down the corridor and everything.and I will also help him sneak out safely when he's all set to leave.just text me five minutes before though.

Me : ok, this is the perfect idea Jess. You saved my Insides a massive brainstorm session, I mean they are kind off like in shut down mode in all excitement anyway.

Jess : haha...I told you...you and SB can thank me later. Ok...now see Vikram's striking a conversation. Text you later.

Me : okiesss jess, I am happy to see the two of you hit it off ya...(wink)

Jess : Khushi..please.can we talk about this later?

Me : haha..ok..carry on.

I lock my phone and right then Shivi asks me something about the Wankhede's boundary lengths and we fall into a comfortable chatter.(I am at the back, in the bucket seat and Shivi is next to me. Jess and Vikram are in the middle bucket seats and Hridhaan is in the front seat.)

A couple of minutes later, Shivi gets a call from Ranjana aunty and she takes it, and it is right then , my phone beeps.

It's Arnav – this time.

Him : Sparkle, I just got free, finished with all the meetings and everything, everyones retired to their respective rooms, how far are you?? please tell me you are reaching soon.

I smile as I reply.

Me : hey you My Stranger, happy to report that Google maps tells me that I am reaching the Hotel in the next two minutes 30 seconds...like Yippppeeeeeeeeeee!!

Him : Okkkk, I am heading to the Reception lobby, then.

Me : wait what??? Arnav?? You are heading to the Reception??

Him : ofcourse Sparkle, I mean I just have to see you the minute you enter. Don't worry about it.Going to keep the Pretence Mode On, and just see you from afar.Lets just say, I am going to find a reason to fall into a chat with the Hotel manager that I have known for years now. I mean that way, I won't miss out on seeing you, the minute you reach atleast.

I grin.

Me : God...Arnav...this is crazy...but exciting too. As in, I will at least catch a glimpse of you too. Please don't lock your gaze with mine though, from across..k? it will be very difficult for me to pull away from your gaze, then,also yes, Jess has come up with the perfect plan to help us meet too. Will text you about it, as I am making my way up to the room.k?

Him : did she now? That's great Sparkle. I have reached the Lobby.You? why does this last minute have to feel like eternity?

Me : haha...(winks)

Him : no really! Ok, I see the manager, and I am just walking up to him, have called him aside for a little chatter, and we are probably going to be seated, in the seating area, right behind the reception – where you will all check in.

Me : Okkiesss Arnav...ok...the Car is pulling in to the Drive way....(hearts)

About, two minutes later, we are all making our way in through the lobby.Jess and Vikram are walking a little up front, busy in their chatter, and I am walking next to Shivani and Hridhaan is right next to her.

I am so freaking Nervous + Excited – everyone.

Can't wait to just reach that Check In – Counter and see My Stranger. Just as we take a little left turn from the enterance corridor, towards the Reception counter now, as being guided by one of the Hotel's staff – my eyes, instantly look out towards the seating area, Arnav had mentioned in the text and just as I look that way – my eyes finally fall on Arnav's frame as he is busy in conversation with the Manager, and it is right that very second he looks up too and our eyes lock for a nano-second from across and well because I can read him so well by now – I instantly spot a lot of intense emotion swim through his eyes as he continues to look our way, while still continuing to be in conversation with the Manager.

Right then I hear Shivani say in glee – " oh my god, bhai, khushi..do you see what I see? That's ASR. Right there, in front of us?? I mean look?? He's busy in conversation with someone though...but look at my luck...we are surely going to spot a lot of players todayyyy....i am keeping my camera ready for selfies this time, "

I look away from Arnav's gaze instantly as I pretend to ask Shivi (As if I hadn't spotted Arnav at all)– " really?? is it Skipper ASR?"

Hridhaan looks at where Shivani is gesturing too as well and he smiles – " yes Khushi,shivi is right , well its him, I know you are a big fan of his game too, we can surely meet him today later on as in right now he does look like he is busy in a conversation,and I think it will be rude to just interrupt and walk over..so maybe later.."

I nod – " yes, sure,as in it will be rude if we just walk over and interrupt indeed..so yes maybe later.."

Hridhaan grins – " c'mon then let's get the check in formalities done, Vikram and jess are already upfront by the counter.."

I nod and Hridhaan gestures me to walk up next to him and Shivani and just as I am about to do that, I do look at the area where Arnav is seated, and I think I just spotted a little bit of a familiar flinch in his frame,(that he immediately covered up) as our eyes locked from across for a brief second, before I went on to stand next to Shivi, Hridhaan, Jess and Vikram at the check in counter – puzzled. Puzzled because, even though I had been spotting this flinch in his frame, I was confused as to why was he covering it up.

I hear my Mind say. Bingoo K. Its that same, Familiar Flinch that we'v spotted in his frame, the one that he's been covering up the very next second, especially on these last two days on every video call, the minute you start filling him in, over every Detail which includes Hridhaan. I bet you, he just flinched the same way, because he's a tad bit uncomfortable seeing Hridhaan right next to you just now, in reality, in the same frame.

I hear my Heart chip In. Oh dear Mind, the right word wouldn't be uncomfortable. It would be Jealous or Envious – perhaps? He's just plain out Jealous. I'v been saying that to you , for the last two days.

My eyes chip in. Yup, I agree with the Heart here. He is Jealous. Totally Jealous.

I groan to my Insides. Guys, that's what I am puzzled about, as in just incase this is causing him any discomfort whatsoever, why is he not talking to me about it? You do know that just last night, I was almost about to ask him the same, but then I didn't, because I thought id just talk to him about this face to face, maybe? This is the reason why I want to tell him that I told Hridhaan this morning, that I already have someone special in my Life – like face to face.Why wont he talk to me? Why is he masking it?

My mind says. Hmmm yes, K. I have been wondering the same..

My Heart chips In.Dear K, I think I know why he is masking it. He probably wants to come across as being all gentlemanly about it, what if he fears that him saying anything to you about this, makes you think he doesn't trust you or something? as in he obviously knows, despite the jealousy that to you Hridhaan is just a friend, and that's all he will ever be.Please note – even though we'v got out back to him, I can literally feel his gaze on Your frame from Behind. Also, please note – we have a feeling that his whole idea behind – getting Rahul and Anjali to fly to India right now is also driven by the fact that – he wants to get introduced to Mom and Dad, like asap , be it in anyway whatsoevr. I suggest – you talk this out with him ASAP, as in if he isn't brining it up – you do it, for Him.

I sigh to my Insides, Guys, you know what, I think you are right, as in the best thing would be that I only bring up this conversation, with Arnav. You all know I don't like all this Masquerade business na...I just want everything to be like super clear in between of us always..

My Insides Nod – in collective Unison.

I am distracted right in my thought as I am asked to hand over my Id by the executive behind the desk, for the formalities, as we await for them, to hand us our keys.

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Fifteen Minutes Later – 3:50 PM

Khushi's POV Continues

I am pacing around in my room (1706),in anticipation. Jess has her room next to mine, which is (1705). Hridhaan, Shivi and Vikram have their rooms on the floor right below ours as in the 16th Floor.We all just made our way into our rooms, about five minutes ago , and decided to just relax and catch up with one another in the coffee shop at around 530, too.

Arnav's going to be here any minute as in, I obviously texted him all about the plan Jess had come up with and everything, the minute we all started to make our way to the elevator to make our way up to the room , and he instantly texted saying that he'd make a quick stop to his room which was on the 22nd floor, to get his secretive Hoodie get up on , and then make his way here instantly. Jess is currently on the corridor guard right now, as she said, she would be.

My phone beeps.

Jess : open you door, already. SB reaching your door in the next four seconds. Luckily corridor was clear. It was just me, loitering around. It was totally funny for SB and me, to pretend as if we have no idea what we are upto, when clearly we have every idea about it.(Wink).now don't say thank you, do that later. I am getting into my room too, going to just relax and catch up on some rest in the meanwhile.

I walk over to the door, quickly and flip it open in an instant, and just as I do, I spot Arnav standing there, right in front of me, grinning at me, and as our eyes lock intently - I quickly step behind, grinning like an idiot too, and he gets in and I quickly close the door shut.

And just as I do that – I feel myself being pushed into the door behind me, as Arnav, places his one hand on the wall , and he cups my right cheek tenderly with his other hand, and rubs his thumb slowly over my cheek , caging me in the circle of his frame, and giving me shivers in the process and he whispers looking into my eyes, giving me a mischievous wink – " hey you...Sparkle...long time no see..23 days never felt this long ever before...I missed you, dammit.."

I grin as I cup his face, the way he had cupped mine and say softly – " hey you...My Stranger, yupp...long time indeed...I mean I do have to agree that these 23 days, never felt this long ever before too....i missed you so much too Arnav...dammit* infinity perhaps?"

Ok his, gaze that was locked with mine – just turned Super, Duper Intense.

His thumb makes its way to caress my lips, and I just close my eyes, on impact and clutch his arm, with my one hand and I feel My Lips fall into a Tranz. K, he's going to kiss Us. We just know it by the way his eyes just lingered to us. Don't stop him k? as in shift your talking about the Masquerade stuff, by atleast a couple of minutes. We need to kiss him too.

I hear Arnav's intent voice fall in my ears as he whispers leaning closer, his lips almost on mine – "why won't you keep your eyes open Sparkle? Look into mine please??"

I open my eyes, instantly.

He whispers, caressing both my cheek with both his thumbs – "I told you, well in advance Sparkle, that I am not going to let you breathe, the minute I see you next and I won't stop kissing you, until I have ravaged your lips with mine , over and over again...so this is me giving you just a couple of seconds to catch up on all the breath in advance.."

I smile a little, as I admit softly , keeping my eyes locked with his, as I wrap my one arm around his neck, and caress his cheek, like he was caressing mine with my other hand – " I am totally okay with not breathing for a while, you know..like who wants to breathe when I have like a bonus ticket to ArnavLand...and you kn.."and even before I could complete my sentence, I feel Arnav's lips close over mine, immediately as he pulls me closer into him, holding onto me tight, and continues to kiss me very urgently, and deeply.

And I am Lost, in that familiar Daze as I start to kiss him back deeply with equal fervour too,as I tiptoe closer into him, and lace my hand through his hair and just try to match the move of his lips over Mine.

I have no clue as to how many seconds, have gotten converted into how many Minutes, as we'v been standing by the door, embraced closely into one another, holding on tight, and just kissing each other this Madly.

Yup.The way he's Kissing me just now – is the exact definition of mad and intense. I mean it surely feels that way, for He was right.He's ravaging my lips now. And I think I may be on the way of getting a hang on doing the same to his Lips too.

He picks me up by the waist, not breaking away from our Intense Kiss, even for a second, and I feely my body react on impulse and in a fraction of a reflex, as I wrap my legs around his waist, snugly(As if it were the most normal thing to do)- as he carries us into the room, and we plonk on the sofa, in the seating area, as he sits back into it first, and continues to hold me tightly, and continues to kiss me hard, and deep.

..............................

About many heated minutes, later, when I feel my Lungs send out an urgent – We Need to Breathe – K, report to my Lips, I finally slow down on kissing Arnav, and I think , he catches on the hint, as he slows down too, and I finally pause on kissing him , and pull my entangled ravaged lips, away from his, as I whisper softly, keeping my forhead on his, keeping my eyes closed, rubbing his cheek with my thumb, as his one hand stays snug around my waist, and the other fisted in my hair, (since we are still plonked on the sofa and I am pretty much seated still on top of him) – " so, that was the lungs sending an urgent report to my Lips saying– we need to breathe K.."

We both chuckle, breathing heavily and I haven't opened my eyes yet, and I think Arnav hasn't too. I think – he is as hazed, dazed and affected because of the super powerful intense kiss that we just shared, and because I want to let this out immediately to him, I whisper, against the side of his lips – " I mean, I paused because I needed to breathe obviously, Arnav...and now that I have paused, I just need to get this out to you first..."

He tightens the hold of his hand that was fisted in my hair, and kisses my nose and my cheek and he whispers – " sure Sparkle, I need to tell you how much I freaking missed you, all over again too..."

I feel myself shiver in his arms, as I admit honestly, sure that the vulnerability was evident in my voice, as I open my eyes too, to look at his face - " I can't take it...I just can't take it Arnav..."

That makes his eyes flash open in an instant as he cups my face tenderly and asks, worry evident in both his eyes and his voice – " Sparkle, you okay?? Whats wrong?? Why do I see so much turmoil in your eyes, right now? And what do you mean by you can't take it?? You can't take what??"

I admit honestly, looking into his eyes,brushing my hands through the hair at the nape of his neck,with the hand that was wrapped around his neck – " I can't take the fact , that you aren't talking to me about that turmoil, you'v been trying to mask off late...Arnav, the one that makes you flinch so very often, and you mask it up the next second, in front of me...why aren't you talking to me about it??" and I close my eyes as I admit honestly – " i wanted to talk to you about this last night, too on the video call, but then I just thought since I am meeting you soon, ill just maybe wait to talk to you face to face about it...since it just felt like you aren't going to talk about it, until I bring it up...."

I hear his intense voice fall in my ears as his cupped hold on my face gets a little bit more snug and tight as he asks – " you noticed??even though I tried my very best to mask it, I mean I was a thousand percent sure that you wouldn't catch onto this..."

I open my eyes instantly now and look into his intently moved ones and I nod as I kiss his forhead and say – " ofcourse I noticed Arnav, it isnt just you, who can see right through me, I mean I caught onto the fact that there was something bothering you, but it just took the stupid whacky Clueless me a little while to get my head around what it could be...and now that my insides tell me that theyv got their finger wrapped around what it could be, for sure,I obviously want to talk this out with you asap...because I want no masks in between of us ever Arnav...like can I introduce this bit as like the first added annexure in our promissory summon..an annexure that states – promise 6.0 – No Masquerades Please...like ever.. Arnav...like literally...or wait..let's make it No Masquerades or Filters, ever...Please.. "

Arnav nods as he kisses my forhead and looks into my eyes – " yes...you can surely introduce this annexure Sparkle, to be honest to you it was really difficult for me to mask it from you in the first place as well..."

I ask, concerned as I kiss his cheek – " will you talk to me about it please?? As in, my insides have obviously guessed that this is all to do with Hridhaan...it is about him, isnt it??"

His eyes widen a little as he hears me say that,but he nods sincerely nonetheless and I say – " talk to me...please??"

He kisses my forehead immediately as says cupping my face – " I will..I promise I will.....but before I get to that, how about you just let me take your breathe away first for a couple of minutes first again...you know since I'm moved with Intense emotion again right now because of the way you caught onto this before I could word it out to you...and I really need to just ravage your lips again with mine, bad and hard...you wouldn't mind that Sparkle,would you??"

I smile as I admit caressing his cheek – " I'd be crazy to mind that Arnav...as in I would never.." and once again, before I could even complete my sentence, his lips close over mine urgently as he starts to kiss me all hard and deep,urgently and madly and I can only whimper and moan his name Into his lips and kiss him back as deeply too,holding him close into me and clinging onto him as intense continued to deepen intensely.

And oh – what words was I trying to say out loud to him that he cut me out in the middle of the sentence, as he closed his lips over mine in this Ravaging Deep Kiss?.

Words –" I would Never ever Mind You Ravaging my LIPS EVER – ARNAV.LIKE – PAKKA SE *INFINITY*INFINITY*INFINITY to that – Indeed."

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TADAAAAA!!!!!

How was the Update Guysssss?? (wink winkkkkk.....)

Let me know what you guys think as always, you all know I love reading your feedback and comments.

Next Update : ok everyone, I did post a message about this on my Message board yesterday that I will be giving Two Updates this week, instead of the Usual three updates in a week. I have a couple of prior work commitments that I will be busy in for the next two days, so I mostly will be getting around to start writing the next update on Friday and will be posting it up as soon as it is ready, so if not by Friday night, by Saturday – surely.

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

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