CHAPTER 30.1 – BREAKING THROUGH

4 years ago

mysticaltales11111

@mysticltales111

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee

So here I am here with the Second Update of this Week, for HW2.0.

Its about 10K words guys.And once I finished writing this bit – I totally wanted it to stand out on its Own – for it felt like it was important to just highlight this bit from our Skipper Blue's Perspective.

We are Now One More Month Forward Into the Story.

Also, 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 30.1 – BREAKING THROUGH

ONE MONTH LATER – 17TH AUGUST,2020

(PLEASE NOTE THE TIME DIFFERENCE IN BETWEEN OF JAMAICA AND ENGLAND IS 5 HOURS – AS IN JAMAICA IS BEHIND ENGLAND IN TIME BY 5 HOURS)

JAMAICA, WEST INDIES

6:45 PM

Arnav's POV

I am waiting for the elevator to arrive so that I can make my way back to my room, right now.

Guys, before we proceed further, please note – two very important things in here though.

1. My hearts all Beaming in Immense Joy at the moment and I obviously can't stop grinning and my heartbeats racing all superfast in happiness and it kind of totally has nothing to do with the Super Intense Cardio+ Weights workout Session – that I finished in the Gym, just now.

2. Also,the fact that I am still quite impatient when I am JUST LIKE some minutes away from getting CONNECTED TO My Sparkle on a call has not changed. I don't think it ever will. Just like My excitement about the same, will also never change.

And Yes. I know I need to give you all a glimpse and context into that first bit – as to why my Hearts all Beaming in Joy and also a little background into all that's happened in the last month. Will surely get around to the latter bit, but as of now first thing out, I do need to live in this moment and bask in the happiness of it first. (I also need to find a way to have this elevator come to the Health Club's floor, faster)

I press the elevator button again, in my hurry – even though I am totally aware that pressing it a numerous number of times, is totally not going to help in the speed with which it chooses to appear before me.

I am right on that thought off whether I should just take the Stairs up to the Reception or maybe just straight away to my room up on the Seventh Floor or spend a couple of minutes out here still waiting – when I spot – Ravi, Rohan and Cap walking upto the Elevator as well after finishing their work Out Sessions too. Veer and Singh are still in the Gym right now – along with some more boys from the team.

Rohan pats my arm all warmly now as he says biting back his smile to Ravi(whose got his head dipped into the phone.Probably texting Noor) and Cap – " and everyone, our man here made the rush out of the gym before us, which could only mean that he is sneaking some moments away to talk to his secretive someone, before we could corner him again over her identity.."

I bite back my grin as I wink at Rohan – "well you got that one right, for sure brother..."

Cap pats my arms all warmly as he smile's cheekily – " I am sure you know that Rohan is in the process of losing his head over this though as much as he understands that you want to guard her, at the back of his head he can't believe he is unable to connect the dots about her mysterious identity.."

I chuckle to that happily as I ask, looking at Rohan – " really Rohan??"

Rohan nods cheekily – " really, for sure man..i swear to god – ask Ravi and Cap – you know how I need to connect the dots in a mystery situation right??"

Cap – Me and Rohan nod at one another and we share a warm laugh.

Also – this Elevator is like seriously Held Up -Guys.

Wonder what's taking it so Freaking Long.

Rohan says to Ravi now, whose still got his head dipped into the phone smiling, as he is browsing through something – " say Hi to Noor, will you Ravi.."

Ravi looks up now at us and grins – "no no guys. I am not talking to Noor right now..its the middle of the night there..she's sleeping..."

Rohan and Cap and Me ask in Unison – " then what's that grin about??"

Ravi looks up at us in glee and he says excitedly – " cricket ofcourse...just a different setting though. you boys will not freaking believe this. This just freaking happened about ten Minutes ago. You know how some of our women players play in these international leagues? Right? the kia super league is on right now.."

I bite back my Grin.

Rohan nods – " yes...Sheena, Harpreet, play the Kia.."

Cap nods – "and Mira also plays the big bash along with sheena and harpreet..they are doing us proud..they surely are...."

Ravi says excited – " yes to that gentleman, but this time around, apparently two more of our players have joined Sheena and Harpreet in the Kia - to be honest I didn't know until I saw this up online...as in I thought it was just usual Harpreet and Sheena this year too in the Kia.. but one of our other women players, whose playing out in the Kia Super League alongside them, just won a freaking nail biting match for her team Western Storm by firing SiX freaking Sixes in a Row in the 19th Over...the Yorkshire team were potentially ahead in the game. Western Storm needed 40 runs from the last two overs and the opposition were surely amidst celebrations until our this player, goes onto unleash some massive cricketing Carnage with her bat – freaking SIX sixes in a ROW..unbeleivable...she's also got all the awards in the post match presentation tonight..amazing this is guys..so basically...I was just searching her up online...as in in our national women's squad..because if she's playing the Kia,means she would be playing India as well right..that's the way the scouts would have spotted her..maybe...also apart from those six sixes..she had fired another four sixes throughout the innings here and there since she opens the innings for Western Storm alongside Sheena...ten freaking sixes in an innings..and to help your team chase down a target of freaking 210..fantabulous...for sure...also she scored 110 not out...beat that gentleman 110 not out...how amazingly crazy is that..."

Yup.

Amazingly Crazy – Indeed – My Friend.

That also catches Cap's and Rohan's interest as they ask in an instant admiring unison – " really?? six sixes in a row ??and ten sixes in an innings?? 110 not out??????? "

Ravi nods excited.

Ok – everyone.

This is not My Doing.

It's Fate's.And as Fate would have it. Ravi just had to spot this bit up Online – right freaking Now.

I bite back my Grin with great Difficulty. Obviously. I pretend to look into the phone alongside the rest as if it were the first time I was seeing this.(Which I obviously wasn't). For now you guys know as to why my Heart's all Beaming in Happiness just now. For just incase you all haven't guessed it – the player Ravi is talking about is My Sparkle -Obviously. My Love. My little Hit Girl. Freaking Fired SIX SIXES IN A ROW TO SEAL THE GAME FOR WESTERN STORM TONIGHT.YES YOU HEARD HIM RIGHT – FREAKING TEN SIXES IN ONE INNINGS!!!!!!!!!!!

110 – NOT OUT.

AMAZINGLY ASTOUNDING INDEED.

GODAMMIT – MY WOMAN IN BLUE.

SO HAPPPY FOR HER.

THE WORD – HAPPY WOULD BE AN UNDERSTATEMENT. ECSTATIC – DESCRIBES WHAT I AM FEELING WITHIN A LOT MORE BETTER.

I COULD TOTALLY POP UP A CHAMPEGNE BOTTLE RIGHT HERE – RIGHT NOW – IN CELEBRATION.

WAIT.

ON THAT NOTE – I JUST DID. Mentally in My Imagination.(Winks)

Also, I do have to take this moment to tell you all that – My Sparkle is still somewhat in a Gaming Daze right now unable to believe what she pulled off tonight herself.We were obviously on chat on Whtsapp the minute she switched on her phone in the dressing room after the game and she had those string of excited texts awaiting from me to be read (BECAUSE I was obviously following up on her Game online – amidst my Workout Session as well and I actually thank the gods that I had taken a pause and lingered around the lounge area outside the men's room – with my earphones all plugged into my ears watching the Live Stream of it Up Online, specially the last THREE overs, and that I could witness the magic she pulled off her bat tonight with my Own Eyes. Godammit. She WAS UNBELEIVABLE.

I HAD GOOSEBUMPS. I STILL DO.

PERIOD.

I AM SO FREAKING PROUD OF HER!!!!!!

Also, she was obviously telling me after - how she's in a daze herself, feeling all surreal about it,still in the middle of processing it all through. It was right then that the team was heading back to the accommodation – and we decided to connect on a videocall the minute she would reach back in another twenty-twenty five minutes or so – which was the reason why I was rushing up to my room in a rush – so that I could freshen up and everything before connecting to her.

Can't Freaking Wait. She's totally going to look at me with adorable dazed mesmersing bewitching eyes being all like – " Oh My God..Arnav..did I just freaking pull that off tonight? Like for Real????"

I am consumed with Glee – again. As I am seeing Ravi livestream the highlights of her Six Sixes – online.

I hear Rohan say, totally impressed , as he takes Ravi's handset in his hand now – " dude...guys...she is amazing...just look at those pull shots..and that freaking switch hit..unbloodybeleivable..we know how freaking difficult those shots are and look at her making it look so easy..."and Cap adds nodding his head impressed – " yup...she totally makes it look super easy...we all obviously know it isn't anything but easy...and look at the way she took on their excellent spinner in that 19th over..for those 36 runs..."and Ravi states in a a happy daze(he is our ace spinner) – " guys, I totally think she'd take my deliveries on for some sixes too..because if you see there was absolutely nothing freaking wrong with those deliveries...perfect line, length, and there was swing and spin too..but she smashed it outta the park nonetheless...reckon what guys? When we get back to india..lets ask the BCCI to help arrange a common nets session with India Women, for I definetly want to bowl to her.."and he looks at me and Rohan and asks – " say what Skipp and Deputy? Can we do this??"

I'D BE MORE THAN HAPPY TO BROTHER.

Rohan and me look at one another as we say – " maybe..there's no harm in trying.."

Cap nods – " no harm at all..."and he says grinning – " I wanna wicket keep behind this one to just observe her foortworkkk..it looks pretty on point..on screen"

GUYS.

I CONTINUE TO BEAM IN HAPPINESS AND PRIDE OBVIOUSLY. HAVE POPPED ANOTHER BOTTLE OF IMAGINARY CHAMPGENE AS WELL.

Rohan and Cap both look at Ravi and ask Inquisitive in collective unison – " she plays for India women right...? please tell us that she does..she has to...you looked her up online right?..what's the name??"

I AM AFRAID – THAT ITS GETTING REALLY DIFFICULT FOR ME TO KEEP UP MY MASK.

Ravi nods as he looks at us and says – " yup...she plays for India Women...I think she''s recent in the national squad..came on in last year I guess...plays for delhi in domestic circuit..her name's khushi gupta..jersey no 22.."

Rohan asks curious admiring the Six – Sixes Highlights Shots again – " any idea at what spot..i reckon..opener? alongside Sheena maybe?"

Cap nods, smiling – " I reckon too..which is how Sheena and her are opening the innings for Western Storm as well...this is great for our women's team..guys – India's opening pair – opening the innings up for their team in Kia Super League as well.."and he frowns now as he says – " it's so unfair that they don't get the attention they deserve back at home in India.."

Rohan, Ravi and me nod collectively at that and Ravi takes his phone back from Rohan and browses it for a couple of seconds and says smiling – " ok so even though its late in India..seems like Mira(Captain ODI) was up watching...she's just posted on her stories in Insta with the sixes shots - Our Little Hit Girl in action in England. Fires up Six Sixes in a Row to seal the game for Western Storm tonight. So Proud of Her..Way toooo Gooo."

I agree with You – Mira.

Rohan (we call him our hitman fondly)smiles now as the elevator finally opens up and we all get in and he says – " they call her the little hit girl? Only apt..she's got some massive explosive shots in her bat.."( Wait till Khushi hears This. She is totally a big fan of Rohan's game too)

I grin now as I wink leaning back into the elevator's wall – " Just like you...my friend.."

We all share a warm laugh now and I ask innocently looking at Ravi, peeping into his screen – " are you still looking up on her online? The little hit girl??".Yup he is – looking up at the national women's squad up on BCCI's website.

ITS GETTING WAY TO DIFFICULT FOR ME TO HOLD ONTO MY MISCEVIOUS GRIN.

Ravi nods excited – " totally...also I guess I know why they call her the little hit girl..coz she is literally the youngest in the national squad right now.."

Ravi says grinning – " know what? I am totally reposting Mira's post as well...let the damm video go viral online..everyone back in India must be sleeping...but when they wake up...atleast everyone on my insta will see this..i am totally going to do this from now on..highlight our women's team achievements...infact if we look up the stats of kia super league not just Khushi, even sheena has been performing brilliantly – Western storms freaking on top of the table right now with 5/5 wins..all because of how these two have performed brilliantly for them as opener's...also the team Harpreet and another one of our players Jess is playing for Surrey Stars is right on Spot 2 in the table as well..theyv all been doing so well...hopefully after my post...some sport media journalist back in India will hopefully write an article on our players brilliant performance in the Kia Super League...."

THANK YOU RAVI.

It's something that I have been dying to do myself as well but then my hands were tied – because - My Sparkle made me promise that I would never use my position as India's Skipper in this Context.

She wouldn't like it.

Ravi says now, grinning – " Done...iv reposted it.."

Rohan and Cap say now in unison – " yup...do that Ravi...also know what? we will do the same as well..."and they all look at me now and say – " Arnav..we know you are not on insta, but maybe tweet the same..as well..appreciation post coming from the Indian Skipper of our men In blue unit...it will put them more – into the Spotlight as well...."

GUYS.

THEY JUST DIDN'T ASK ME OF THIS.

BECAUSE I AM GOING TO HAVE TO SAY I CAN'T.

AND THEY ARE GOING TO CORNER ME INTO THE WHY'S OFF IT.

I try to shrug it off with a polite smile now as I say – " yes I will...for sure...but later.."

Rohan and Ravi look at me , narrowing their eyes at me and say in unison – " we know this smile of your's...it means you wont actually do it..you are just shrugging this off...why???"

Cap is looking on at me with narrowed eyes. He obviously has a clue as to why I am trying to shrug it off.He knows my secretive someone is a cricketer. I ask him for help here.

Cap says now looking at the two – " guys, he will do it...only later.i am sure...remind him at dinner.."

Ravi says now – " yes I will...I am totally going to ask the full unit to do the same too over dinner.."

And right then a thought strikes my Head. What if – My Sparkle – gets overwhelmed by this? As in – if our entire unit – reposts this? I do need to check it up with her instantly.

Right then the elevator reaches our floor and I text her, immediately – stepping out.

Me : Sparkle, my love.. have you reached the accommodation? Guess what happened? It's totally by fates doing that I am having a hard time biting back my grin here....Ravi has spotted your video up online..of the game tonight...he is so freaking impressed just like Cap and Rohan and I will tell you all about it on the video call.but I had to text you first as – Ravi's totally reposted Mira's post for you on Insta as well on his insta too.Rohan and Cap are planning to do the same too. He also did say that he's going to ask the entire team to do the same over dinner – because he wants to bring the spotlight on our woments team and specially your's, Jess, Harpreet and Sheena's performance in the Kia Super League. They are encouraging me to tweet this too, somehow just shrugged it off. but I had to text you to know if would be okay with this right? not overwhelming right??as in if the full team posts this up???

My phone beeps in ten seconds.

Her : hey you..my love...reaching the accommodation in 15 minutes plus as got caught up with the team in the dressing room celebrationsssss!!!! Jeezzzzz Love...so much of me Is in a Gaming Daze though. oh my god – what just happened? are you serious about this? Like Ravi spotted? Oh my god I am sure you must be having a hard time putting up the mask in front of them...haina? Acha listen na..honestly just one of the team players reposting is obviously okay...as in if Ravi is already done it..then thike..chalega...but to have everyone do it collectively will be a tad bit overwhelming for me surely Arnav..as in...it might just garner too much attention perhaps...and then when the news of us being together comes to light – the public might just think that I was using our personal connection or something in the background...you understand what I mean don't you? if the limelight has to happen I do want it to happen like organically...as in I know this is also organic only...but still you understand what I mean don't you? ...abhi ke liye it will be too much for me.. is there any way you can ask Ravi to not ask everyone to do it? Even Rohan sir or Cap for that matter????and you toh definitely cannot tweet even the link to my Video – thike? You aren't mad at me for this aren't you??

I quickly text back as we are making our way down the corridors : Shut up Sparkle. You know I understand. I know you my love. That's why I texted you first. I kind off anticipated that this was what you might say. There's only one way I can stop that from happening though for now love..as in Ravi and Rohan will understand instantly if I tell them about Rahul + Anjali .okay? and tell them as to why our families are keeping it a secret for your sake. I can cite them Sagar uncles reasons..

Her : is that the only way, my love??

I hear Rohan and Ravi talking about making Khushi's six sixes video go viral up online as Cap's still looking at me with perceptive eyes as we are walking to our rooms on the same floor.

Me : yup I guess so, love. for Ravi and Rohan are actually just talking about how they can make the video go viral up online.Rohan's just saying he is planning to forward it to one of the reporters back in India to do a feature on you all as well.

My phone beeps.

Her : ohh nooo....no no no...no references ya..like if someone does a feature by themselves then thike..but acha listen na..you tell them thike? About bhai and Anjali.as in just Cap, Ravi and Rohan sir – ok??

Me : Sure????????????

Her : yes baba..pakka se sure..and tell them my reasons for the same too. Also dad's and bhai's Thike? And also pakka se ask them to keep a secret..im sure they will understand na?

Me : yes Sparkle – they will understand.Don't worry.k? ill just handle this at my end and call you after.k? also stop being in your gaming Daze still alright Sparkle. You'v killed it tonight, and I am so freaking glad I watched you doing it with my very own eyes. So freaking glad...My Cinderella Version bat & Helmet...I am so proud of You.So proud.

Her : thank you so much loveee...(heartssss) also,maybe it has everything to do with your lucky handwritten coded message on my favourite bat too- Skipper Blue. You are my Inspiration – after all. You always will be, my love. oh god..bhai is texting me right now...along with mom and dad on the family group I think he woke them up...he must have woken up in the middle of the night to see the score or something for the update on my game. and now dad is all texting – khushi beta did I just hear your brother right? did you just fire six sixes in a row and ten in the innings and 110 not out tonight?? Oh wait why am I asking you first here..i am going to watch the hightlight video first..Will you believe your mother is dancing in her sleep, already..

Me : ofcourse Sparkle...they must be so so happy right now..speak to them first...no worries..

Her : ok then love..will just text them first on the family group since it's so late in India naaaa. Let's Connecttt soonishhhhh my stranger...until we text again my love..

Me : okay yes let's do that Sparkle.until we text again – my love..

Right then I hear Ravi say – " oh guess what Rohan..Cap, Arnav now that I have been seeing this video of this little hit girl a couple of times...it just feels like I'v met her as in seen her somewhere... where can it be where can it be??"and he snaps his finger instantly now as he says – " oh yes at the afterparty in Mumbai, after our IPL win...she was there..with her friends..we got some pictures together for sure..i think it was her...for sure..." and he looks at us all and asks – "remember guys..there was this group picture...by some fans on the dance floor after the cake cutting.."

RAVI – THAT WAS SOME EXCELLENT RECALL.

Rohan say now , in recall too – " oh yes..yes yes...I think it was her too...but hey why wouldn't she tell us that she plays for India women right there in the party? Why not introduce herself as a national cricketer to us too?"

Cap nods looking at me with his narrowed perceptive eyes – " I wonder why too.."

I say now with a normal smile – " that's totally because Khushi did not want to introduce herself to you all as a national cricketer for India in the afterparty...she wanted the introduction to happen in a formal setting you know like the cricket stadiums back in India or the BCCI head office for that matter.."

And the three of them gape at me in curiosity as they ask in unison now – " and you know this because????????????"

I take a deep breathe, opening the door to my room(which was first in line from Rohan's ,Ravi's or Cap's) and gesture them to get in first and as I close the door behind us and walk into my room to see the three of them exchanging curious looks and gaping at me inquisitively, I say – " I know this because she told me.."

Rohan and Ravi ask in unsion again, shocked – " wait what? you mean you know her?you know this Little hit girl?"

Cap's the only one who continues to give me perceptive narrow-eyed looks.

I nod at them as I say in between sipping on a bottle of water casually first – " yes I know her..."

The three of them in Gaping in Unison again – " how?????????????"

I smile as I sit on the sofa in my room now – " how so because...Anjali is getting married to her brother, Rahul – this December.."

That makes the three of them break into a grin instantly for they dote on Anjali as elder brothers anyway – " wait? What???? Anj is getiing married? Our anj??"

I nod happily as I say – " yes...indeed...she is..i was going to tell you all a little closer to the wedding actually since Rahul that is Khushi's elder brother and the parents do want us to be secretive about the alliance until the wedding at the least..all for Khushi's sake..for they have obviously seen her work so hard ever since her early teens into building her cricketing career and they obviously think that its too early to have all this familial connection with us in the background take the limelight away from her game.."

Rohan , Ravi and Cap take their seats now around me and nod their heads in unison – " fair enough...makes perfect sense.."

Cap smiles – " I respect that point of view as a father of my little girl myself – obviously...I would always want my daughter to just shine through obviously .."

I nod as I explain – " yup...copy that Cap..they say that she's only just started out in the national squad..its just going to be about a year next month...one of the reasons why we pushed anjalis wedding to December was this as well...the BCCI will have their contract list announced by Mid Dec on the usual right...Rahul says that khushi's hoping to make it to make it to contract b this year..by acing her performances in every opportunity this year...they at least do not want the news of the alliance to come to light until the contract lists are out because Khushi says it's important for her to feel like she achieved this on her own without anyone knowing about the fact that my sister is going to be her Bhabhi soon..which is why she's not talked to anyone in the national women's team too about this...its just a secret...so Ravi we most definietly cannot ask the whole unit to repost her video, for it will be overwhelming for her and her family, dad's already promised her family on this that we are going to be extremely careful on this regard..so now that you did mention it in front off me, I obviously had to let you in on the other side of it since I was aware..right??"

Ravi nods as he asks now – " I get it...I understand now ofcourse...but its ok that I reposted it already though right??"

I nod – " yes yes that's okay..."and I look at Rohan as I say – " and rohan no special mentions to reporters back in India please...I know from Rahul that Khushi is very particular about all the attention to her game being like – organic on its own accord, she's very righteous when it comes to this..."

Rohan nods and he says now – " I get it ofcourse...I understand.."and he grins now happily – " cant really believe this though...our Anj is getting married...cmon brother...tell us about Rahul..he keeps Anj happy obviously??

I nod at them all happily as I start to fill them in on the context of Rahul+ Anjali – for Now.

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Ten Minutes Later

I close the door of my room back, feeling all happy with the way I had handled it all for now and my hearts beaming in pride as I recall Rohan and Ravi asking me to ask Anjali to pass on the appreciation to Khushi over her brilliant game tonight – the minutes its in morning in India and I speak to my sister.( On that Note – Rahul and Anjali returned to India for good around two weeks ago as well.They are both busy settling down at their respective work roles in our respective family businesses.For Rahul+ Sagar Uncle and Nisha Aunty are very supportive and encouraging of Anjali's dream of wanting to work in the E-Commerce ventures of Raizada Industries – and help Dad take it to newer heights.)

I pick up my phone from the desk now and am about to text my Sparkle, right when I spot Cap walking out the washroom in my room and now that it's just him and me - he grins as he folds his arms and leans against at the wall and asks, getting straight to the point – " its her isn't it??"

I look at him amused, still trying to mask it up. Although in my gut I know that he's figured it all out in his head. I ask – " what do you mean Cap??"

He gives me a knowing look and grins – " I mean that – it's her...right? as in apart from being anjali's future sister in law...the little hit girl, Khushi - is also your secretive someone..isn't it so Arnav???"

OK.

GUYS.

NOW THAT HE'S FIGURED IT OUT HIMSELF – I OBVIOUSLY CANNOT DENY THIS.

I don't know why I feel like – if I deny this to him now that he is asking me outright– it will be like Disrespecting the emotions I have within for my Sparkle and the Love I feel for her in my Heart.

I just nod silently, biting back my grin.

Cap grins – " and no one can know obviously..for reasons I absolutely understand..."

I nod.

Cap grins now – " and no one will know Arnav...for sure..don't worry..your secret's safe with me.."

I grin – " I know It is..."

He walks over and gives me an instant happy brotherly hug as he says now – " I am happy for you and her..truly..she's got potential...great potential...tell her that I want to wicket keep behind her one day.."

I hug him back happily – " thank you Cap...I surely will...she's going to be on a ride to the clouds on hearing the appreciation from you, Rohan and Ravi..she's a big fan of all of yours game too, respects you all greatly indeed..." and now that he knows I say to him ecstatic, pulling back – " did you just freaking see her playing tonight? She's astounding isn't it??? Damm..i am so proud of her..she's got so much potential Cap..like you also observed so so so much off it, and playing in the Kia super league is going to be even more amazing for her by the end off it, I just know it will be...her games going to freaking shine through...and I couldn't be happier..you have no idea how difficult it was for me to mask my grin in front of you all in the elevator though.."

Cap grins as he says patting my arm happily – " I understand obviously..come lets sit down and have a talk..if you aren't in a rush to connect to Khushi ofcourse.."

I nod at him as I say – " no worries Cap..she's anyway reaching the accommodation and everything..i do think she will be surrounded by her team mates for a bit too..the Western storms captain is the vice captain for England women as well...she's really impressed with Khushi's game too and is also very fond of her otherwise..so I reckon Sheena and her will be with Khushi for a bit anyway..let's talk.." and Cap nods happily and he gestures me to take the seat on the sofa again and I do and he sits next to me as he gives me a heartfelt smile – " you have always been like a younger brother to me Arnav...since technically we are eight years plus apart in age..i still remember the day you first dawned the blue jersey in the squad coming fresh out from the Under 19...fond memories..."

I pat his arm happily – " fond memories indeed Cap...I wouldn't have been where I am without your support obviously...and especially off late..when..." and I pause. Why? Because – a part of me does not want to talk about this right now(because I do not want it to somber my elated happy Mood but I carry on as I say it out loud to Cap nonetheless – " when our unit has been facing the backlash that it is...I just don't know how to thank you enough for your support Cap..."(My parents always taught me – that One must never hesitate to express Gratitude where due – no matter what the situation)

Cap gives me a heartfelt smile now as he says patting my arm again – " you are always welcome my brother..also one of the reasons I want to say this to you is this Arnav, as in today now that I know that Khushi is your secretive someone..i can only say that I feel this immense pride in my heart at seeing the man you have become irrespective of your identity as a cricketer..you'v always been the boy with the golden heart..and as i have seen you grow in front of my eyes today I can honestly say that you are a diamond at heart brother, a true gentleman indeed, for it takes a gem of a man to be so happy in their partner's successes, irrespective of what they must be facing at their professional front, and a lot more strength of character as a man, especially when the profession happens to be revolving around the same field...and it warms my heart to see that irrespective of the backlash we'v still been facing at the professional front, you only had true happiness in your eyes when you were celebrating Khushi's gaming success tonight..you really are elated beyond imagination"

I smile at that warmly as I admit honestly to him – " ofcourse Cap, I am...and why wouldn't I be? Why shouldn't I be?? Yes we are together as One, but Khushi has a distinct individuality of her own and her own gaming journey and I greatly respect that, and I will never want any of the sourness from my side of the world to overshadow her High's ever, she's held my hand tighter in my lows..you know what a tuff ride this month has been mentally for us..and shes been there for me through it like my Wall of Strength, at every step..i am obviously going to celebrate her success as happily if it were my very own..she's embraced my lows and highs Cap and I am obviously going to do the same..."

Guys.

I AM NOT SOME INSECURED EGOISTICAL MALE CHAUVINIST CHARACTER WHO GETS ENVIOUS OF HIS PARTNER'S SUCCESS. IN MY EYES – THAT'S SHEER COWARDICE.

I BELIEVE IN EMPOWERING MY PARTNER TO GROW AND BLOSSOM TO THE BEST OF THEIR POTENTIAL – OBVIOUSLY.

Cap nods happily and he says – " and I am so proud of you for that Arnav.." and I thank him once again and he asks now – " also tell me honestly, I hope you haven't looked up Online at that page again.."

Oh yes – I have Cap.

Obviously.

It was to Blaring to Ignore.

Guys.

Cap's referring to a Facebook page that was made on Independence Day, which was two days ago with its title being – THE MEN IN BLUE NEED INDEPENDENCE FROM LOSER SKIPPER ASR. And it's admins Had basically listed up in the summary as to how I could never lead India to a ICC World Cup win and hence I must be axed of my position as soon as possible. They were basically inviting people on social media to sign the petition if they thought I should be replaced as India's Skipper Too and they are going to send the petition up to BCCI. Its also eventually turned into a Hate Page wherein a lot of people have been hurling abuses and hateful remarks up at me, left , right and centre as well.

I look at Cap as I admit honestly – " ofcourse I have Cap..was just looking up at it online before heading for the workout..infact guess what's the latest breaking news on that page now...not there's still only more hate being hurled at me, because well we'v played three test matches out here in the West Indies and we'v won just one...so yeah...now they are saying that at least the BCCI should get in a different Skipper for the Test Side....and well...just our entire test squad is being bashed up too..this backlash is obviously going to continue Cap..for a while..."

Cap nods – " yup..i see it going on for a while too.."

I nod as I say – " atleast until maybe we get some substantial bilateral wins...and as much as we all sportspersons obviously play on the field on a given day with the aim of the win in our minds...in our hearts we know that sometimes it just isn't about winning all the time..isn't it Cap?? we can't always be the one winning it all..as sports persons we all learn this on quite early..because hey the opposing side has come out to play and win too and every sports person playing for their teams is a dedicated, hardworking individual nonetheless, and we respect that equation obviously...however at the same time, I also know that as players, out there in the field in the gaming moment, we understand this bit and care about the playing journey nonetheless irrespective of wins or losses, but it's a true fact that majority of the world out there at large only cares about the winning streak.... Only winning freaking matters..."

Cap nods in a agreement as he says deep in thought – " which isn't kind of fair, I feel so too, only if they knew that to us players, it's the entire collective sporting journey that eventually shapes us and defines us as players...and that includes all our losses as well...maybe sometimes I wonder arnav, its just a inate belief that we humans instil in ourselves too subconsciously...that only winning matters at the end of the day and maybe we should all work towards including another bit in there – that winning matters yes, but the loss does not take the significance of the hard work, dedication, grit put in nonetheless...our job is to just keep on going head on, nonetheless...do our bit off it, don't hesitate from giving it your all...yes sometimes our all may not be enough for a win on a particular day, but that's okay...we pause, recollect the lessons learnt from the losses and move on with focus to the next...for that's what sport is all about.."

I nod as I say – "exactly Cap...I agree with you on that.."

Cap looks at me concerned as he asks now – " but tell me something why would you look up at that page online again?? we still have two more tests to play anyway starting day after and the ODI series and the T20 after that..don't let this mess your head up..my Skipper..also they are anyway wrong in their statement when they say you haven't led India to any major ICC win..you led the national U-19 team to a world cup victory a decade ago..already.."

I smile at that as I say to him honestly – " thanks Cap for that..also will you believe this though Cap – looking up at the page and rest of the hate up online, its actually not messing up with my head at all, anymore, as in it did obviously initially for a bit when it happened, but once I saw through that bit off I just told myself I Can't really close my eyes to the world, now – Can i? CaP?? As skippers we just gotta face this right? just gotta maneuverer our heads around it..i thought to myself...our job profiles require us to work out in the open, this is obviously just a collateral affect of the same..there are going to be a zillion opinions obviously....also I'v seen you closely and your journey as well...remember how it was after the world cup loss in 2015? When we landed in India? How the teambus was surrounded with the mob burning our posters down and the bus couldn't move an inch for an hour because of the angry mob and the bus's windshield got shattered too..we were pelted on...a couple of days earlier the nation was touting you as the Golden Skipper..captain Midas, and soon after our loss it was the same public that was bashing you left right and centre then, which actually helped me learn that one must not let any external forces define what you feel within as a player, as in when the wins will come, the world has something else to say altogether and it shifts gears the very next minute as a loss comes up...so you gotta keep that locus of thought and self belief as an internal factor..obviously...otherwise the mind will go bust eventually..."

Cap sighs now and pats my arm supportingly , sombering up at the memory– " I know exactly what you mean..and yes I learnt that bit off it too...and now that you mentioned it , I do remember that time in 2015..one as well...totally felt like as if we were criminals..that day..didnt it??"

I nod as I say to Cap, lightening up the mood a little with a smile – " yes to that totally...on the brighter side Cap, atleast this time around ..there was no stone pelting on arrival...just the angry mob with our posters burning..and hate slogans.."

Cap nods – " yup..thank god for that, also I think the BCCI was prepared well in advance this time around with the extra security.."

I say now sipping on water as I admit – " also one more thing Cap.. they are saying whatever the hell they want to say about me up online..still understandable because as Captain of the Indian side now, I am yet to lead the national side to a ICC world cup win.."

Cap raises his eyebrow at me – " do I need to remind you about the Under 19 – World cup win again, skipper?"

I smile a little as I say – " no Cao..but you know what I mean..anyway its like I understand that yes in their heads its only winning that matters..but I don't obviously understand the fact that..the public is still doing the same bashing bit to you too this time around cursing you for that run out...I mean how can they not remember that you are the one who led us to freaking all ICC wins + major tournamanets in your captaincy reign....what will it take to give that its due share of respect..you'v given decades to Indian cricket...and just look at how Ravi and Rohan's and the rest of the boys Insta has been bombarded with Hate and You are a Loser kind of comments......"

Cap sighs as he says – " I fail to understand why has hurling up hate online become some sort of an entertainment factor?? As far as I remember these social platforms were invented for the purpose of bringing the global community together...and now I just think is that whats the core anymore? why cant people understand that hate only does one thing – it divides and drives humanity apart.."

I nod in an understanding as I say patting his arm – " thank god..you didn't rest out for this West Indies tour Cap..."

Cap smiles - "to be honest for a second I wanted to..just take a sabatacle..for a bit..but then Sachi helped me see things clearly..she was all like do you feel like you wont be able to give your best in the WI tour? Only then rest out..otherwise just go for it head on Dev, do not worry about the world says and well I did feel like I could give it my best on the field in this WI tour ...so yup here I am...I know age is catching up with me...but hey I still have a lot of game left in me.."

I nod in immediate support – " ofcourse you do Cap...you do plan to keep playing right for a couple of years at least???

Cap sighs and smiles as he says with a calm smile – " yes I do plan to continue giving it my all until I feel like I have it in me to go on, so should be behind the stumps for another couple of years...although now all everyone up online is saying is that I should just hand in the gloves...step away from cricket altogether...that I am not to fit to run in between the wickets anymore.."

I admit honestly , appalled – " I am still appalled, how they came up with that though I mean one freaking run out and is that what you come up with for our golden captain, as in should we showcase them the result of your yo-yo fitness test report?"

Cap smiles and says on a lighter node – " maybe BCCI should start making our finesses reports public too, would save us that hassle bit off it.."and I share a little warm laugh with him at that and he says now sombering up again – "to be honest I am still quite appalled how that hate page came up against you on independence day, Arnav...".

And I pause as I admit - " but nonetheless such is the nature of our profession, Cap..such it is..you do know Cap that I always believe that its easier to pilot your head through rather than set out to scream your point to the whole wide world, which is why I have stayed silent amidst this hate and bashing controversies that do not seem to simmer down..as in no matter what I say, there's going to be some out there who is going to find a way to twist things and lash out nonetheless...like how some haters bahsed some of my words from the press conference saying loser ASR is being so gracious in defeat because he has no other options..like now even being gracious and composed in embracing defeat is a crime.."

Cap nods in an inderstanding and I say - "so I just figured that what's more important for me on point here personally...surely the fact that I gotta put on my own sports shoes for protection and cushioning first, before going out to carpet the stony field out there..so that it's doesn't hurt me in the process..because for me internally as a player...my journey matters..what I feel during my cricketing journey matters a hell lot to me Cap..if in my emotions, I am feeling all crap and low and worried all the time – the fruit of the wins eventually will also not taste sweet..which is why I gave disappointment its due but I didn't waste too much time on it, I shifted my mindset to how I can adapt to it in a way so that I start to feel sorted and calm about the storm coming my way nonetheless...because I gotta keep a focus on moving on..and just play my game and give my best to my role nonetheless..like you said Cap.. moving on is what is in our hands..."

Cap nods and smiles – " it is..that's exactly what is in our hands...i can see that you are taking the experience in a good spirit, on the whole.."

I say now feeling a lot more calmer about this now that I am saying this out to my Golden Cap,the man who will always be my captain- "yes..also coz Cap..this entire experience has actually taught me a lot nonetheless...as in yes I do not deny that its been bloody tuff on me mentally obviously – I have had my dips and lows as you know when there's a sudden onslaught of Hate momentarily but on the whole in my headspace I am looking at this phase as a helping tool mentally...I am working on mentally conditioning myself Cap..for like I always say highs + lows = win win notheless...and I do believe this is happening to me for a reason"

Cap asks smiling supportively – "its good to hear you say this Arnav..because yes we can only work on ourselves, that's also the bit thats only in our hands too...also what reason? what other bit are you conditioning yourself through right now Arnav??"

I sigh as I admit honestly (My Sparkle knows about this in complete detail obviously.She's the one whose been my Wall, holding my hand tighter through it all) – " I believe that this is happening to me, because I have something to learn out off it Cap, which is exactly what I am working on embracing and mentally conditioning myself through and that is - Breaking through the shackles of my very own Fears, Cap..for we all have them don't we??"

Cap nods in an understanding, giving me a knowing look – " I know what you mean..i know exactly what you mean...to be honest I did pretty much the same too...and as national players for India, dawning the Blue Jersey for decades...it's often our biggest fear.."

And I fill it up for him, knowing he will understand – " not playing out there in the Blue jersey, before we retire ourselves..."

Cap nods in an instant understanding.

I admit honestly – " its been a dormant fear within me Cap always..not playing for India in the blue jersey, it's something I cannot really ever imagine when I still have gaming left in me...as in I obviously know there will come a day when I have to give up because of the age and the health and fitness factors , because our career timeline in sports is obviously limited to a particular stretch..but what I mean to say is that deep within I have always feared the day that what if I'd be letting go off my blue jersey before time , and this entire experience has just made me discover something and that is the fact that me playing for India within the blue jersey or in the position as Skipper right now is not really the defining factor for my love for cricket or my game...as in I do not love cricket just because I am Captain of the Indian cricket team right now or have been dawning the Blue Jersey for years..I love cricket nonetheless..I still love cricket as much as I did when I was a little boy, or in my early teens ,or as and when I was playing domestic...so yes maybe there might come a time that they can take away my Blue Jersey from me ...but yet they cannot FREAKING take away the love I have for my game nonetheless..no one can take that away from me..for that it is the core that drives me nonetheless,so now that I looked at it that way, it's just helping me break through the shackles of my fears of letting go in a more sorted way .. and to be honest Cap..just working on letting go of this fear has also powered me within...in my gut, I feel like it's going to be make me more fearless as a sportsperson in my emotional cricketing journey...so like I said before from where I see it its totally all about high+ lows = win win nonetheless..."

Cap Pat's my shoulder happily as he says now gesturing for a high five. I high five him obviously.– " highs + lows = win win nonetheless indeed..my brother..." and he hugs me in support as he says – " also yes please know that no one on the board is ever going to take your Blue Jersey away from you before you step down..Arnav..they know you for who you are as a person and a sportsperson and an empowering Captain, they know how we as a unit feel about the current scene, we all know that results in games are never really one persons fault its collective at the end of the day..it always is collective..we all know that you are going to lead Indian cricket to it's own shades of glory...your journey has Captain has only just recently begun my brother....I know you have that belief too"

I hug him back thanking him for his support- " yes I obviously do Cap and I knoww that I can..there's still a lot of gaming left in me, still a lot that i want to pour out there as a national cricketer for India but yet if things were not to go in my favour eventually..I am sort of prepped up now in a way to face that bit too..I am not quite chained back by my fears anymore.."

Cap pulls back and says supportingly – " I am glad you aren't...for fears often have a subconscious power over us that we aren't really mindful about in our consciousness completely. Hence working on them mentally in a state of mindfulness and acceptance always helps in the long run.."

I nod at Cap and i say honestly- " its surely helping me Cap..it surely is..."

It is right then my phone beeps in my Hand.

It's My Sparkle.

Cap smiles and asks – "its her?"

I nod happily.

Cap says now – " ok then,I will take your leave Arnav and ill let you connect with her for a bit, since its going to be time for her to sleep soon..see you at dinner brother.."

I hug him happily , before I walk him back to the door – " see you a dinner Cap...and thank you for everything – always.."

He nods at me and leaves now and I dip my head back into my phone and open whatsapp immediately to see My Sparkle's text.

It's about 715PM here which means its 1215AM in UK.

Her : hey you my love...are you still with everyone kya??? Also Sheena Di and Haley just left my room as well..was thinking to just have a quick shower before we connect on the video call..as in I am obviously all sweaty and everything naaa...chalega??

I grin to myself as I type back at the speed of light.

Me : chalega Sparkle ,because I was chatting up with Cap till now, will tell you all about it on the video call. Stepping in for a shower too since am all sweaty after the workout as well...its such a pity that I can't join you in the shower though (winks)

My phone beeps in two seconds

Her : uffff uffff...look at you being so shameless..my love..tsk tsk..putting me in super Heinz mode -alreadyyyy( hearts and blushing emoticons)

Me : haha..I wish I could see the look on your face..Sparkle..

Her : very funny Thike..and do not worry my Stranger you will surely see a similar look when we are on the video call anyway because you will surely say something that's going to make me blush and flush again...I know you love it..( hearts)

Me : ofcourse I love it Sparkle..send a pic atleast..

Her : acha thike...I will send a pic..wait..

In comes her snapshot of her Uber Adorable face all flushed up. She's also in her cricketing jersey still.And shes also adorably fanning her cheek in the picture.

GODAAMIT – SPARKLE.

FIGHTING THE URGE TO JUST JUMP THROUGH THE SCREEN AND CONSUME HER LIPS WITH MINE – INSTANTLY.

Ha.

As If You Can Raizada.

Me : what are these scientists upto Sparkle? they need to invent a teleportal all fast.

Her: why? So that you can jump through and ravage my lips with yours?

Me : bingo that my little hit girl.Also I hope I am going to be the first one to get a signed Western Storm jersey from you – Sparkle..

Her : Reallyy??? Are you serious???

Me : ofcourse I am serious about this dammit...

Her : you will be the first one – obviously, my Love – like pakka seeeee(hearts)acha listen na now dont keep me busy on chat na baba..let me shower or else we will keep on like chatting and chatting....i anyway have so much to talk to you on the video call...so until we video call my love..( don't reply now thike?) Cmon you to hurry and freshen up na so that we can connect like jaldi jaldi( hearts)

I chuckle as I read that and make my way into my washroom at the speed of light to get on with freshening up now and as the last bits of my conversation with Cap just now returns to my head – I feel like I really want to Thank everyone of my near dear ones family and friends and family for being there as my Wall of Support and strength in this last month of turbulent waters – one more time.( I already have thanked them a lot of times earlier but Expressing Gratitude out where due – can never really be enough. I make a mental note to leave everyone back india a message on whatsapp..and mention the same to everyone in the team and our support unit as well over dinner and ofcourse – Thank My Sparkle too , one more time extensively – on the Video Call, minutes from now)

For I WOULDNT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO BREAKTHROUGH THE SHACKLES OF MY FEARS IN SUCH A SORTED MANNER IF IT HADNT BEEN FOR HER, holding onto my hand all tight and strong.And to be Honest guys – it's from perceiving the love she has for her game ever since I have gotten to know her – that I actually realised that it's that similar love for my game that's always going to be the core for me too – Blue Jersey Or Not – My Love for Cricket is just destined to be Evergreen – nonetheless.

And you all know that I love with an Intensity that's absolutely quite high up on the Intensity Meter – and that is Why, Love is just also technically the reason why just about nothing can Sour the Celebrations I have going on in my Heart for my Sparkle's gaming performance tonight.

A vision of her Firing Up Her Sixes all into the Air from tonight's game– Flashes through My Head once more and my Heart Glows in sheer Glee again.

Guys.

I think I really want to POP UP A BOTTLE OF CHAMPGENE ( a real one and not an imaginary one)- in Celebration TONIGHT.

And Guess what - I most Surely Will.WITH Sparkle, my Love – On The VideoCall, while I tell her all about the appreciative and encouraging words from Cap, Rohan and Ravi.

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TADAAAAA!!!!!

How was the Update Guysssss?? Isn't Skipper Blue like the most amazing Man Like Ever???????? Or Wait...I think Hoodie Guy from HW1.0 is like the most amazing Man too. Oh Maybe they both just ARE equally Amazing!! 😜😜😜 Hehe..what say Guys?(wink winkkkkk.....)

Next Update : Shall now be on either Friday/Saturday Evening.

P.s - also dont worry guys our Skipper Blue is going to get to the High Phase back very soon obviously. But I just wanted to write about his Low bits too.❤❤🙏🙏

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love

Always.

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