CHAPTER 46.2 – THE YO-YO * COCKTAIL

3 years ago

mysticaltales11111

@mysticltales111

Helloooo everyoneeeee..

I hope you all are having a wonderful week!

So yes – here I am with the Second Update of the Week. And its about Medium Length – 7.5K words. And yes it surely is the Chapter that is the Prelude and Set Up – for the much awaited moment in the STORY!

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

And I shall now let you Dive In – without further Delay.

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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 46.2 – THE YO-YO * COCKTAIL

28 MORE DAYS LATER

4TH NOVEMBER, 2020

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

Sydney - is otherwise a busy buzzing city pretty much like an important melting pot/cultural phenomenon within the continent of Australia. However today – on the morning of the 4th of November, 2020 – the buzz and excitement in the air in Sydney had everything to do with the country's love for Cricket.

Australia loves their Cricket – just like Indian's too. In-fact it could be rightly said – that these two nations – i.e - India and Australia are so different in their DNA otherwise and yet they share this burning passion and obsession for the sport of Cricket leading to a competitive spirit of the game in between the two countries in sporty tales that have been the talk of the cricketing world for years and decades prior and will continue to be the talk for the years and decades to come.

Every time – Australia and India – Clash in a Final of any Cricketing Tournament – the frenzy and Buzz around the same is Monumental – Indeed.

And Tonight, was going to be no different. It was going to be a Night of Similar Frenzy for Sure.

For – today – as in tonight – was going to be a night which was going to see a monumental clash off Play in the Finals of the ICC T20 World Cup tournament in between the two teams that had clashed in a Final Play at the Melbourne Cricket Stadium in the beginning of this very year in January in the Final of the Tri Nation Series.

Australia – Women.

India - Women.

And Tonight, was going to be all about – Same Country Teams – playing on the 22 yards at the SCG – (Sydney Cricket Ground) in the race towards the coveted ICC T20 World Cup Trophy.

The ICC T20 Women's World Cup tournament first saw its inception back in 2009 and has been played in a cycle of every two years – except for its very second year where in it was Held in 2010 again to get in tandem with the even-ity of the Number Years so that it does not Clash with the Men's World Cup Tournaments going forward.

The very first edition in 2009 was won by England Women. And ever since then – it Had been Australia Women claiming the coveted T20 World Cup with comprehensive wins in 2010, 2012, 2014 – before West Indies Women broke their Winning Streak in 2016 and Claimed the World Cup! In the 2018 Edition – it was Australia Vs England in the finals too with Australia winning the Cup again!

So the final game on the night of 4th November, 2020 – was going to be more about Australia Women playing it their all in order to Retain their T20 World Cup. And on the other hand – India Women were going to be giving it their all on the 22 yards in the Finale for – this was their chance to Create History and write down their own Story!

The Story they had been working so hard towards as a woman cricketing unit in a nation where in the dominant love for their male counterparts was often given more significance in the mind off the Cricketing fans and Public for whom Cricket was almost an unofficial religion. This was their very chance to prove not only to themselves but to the public and everyone back at Home – that the Indian Women Cricketing Talent – was equally talented and had the mettle to prove their cricketing mettle on the world stage.

Hence – its only aptly framed – that this was their chance to Create History in the pages of the women's cricketing scene in India!For India Women had never won any of the ICC World Cup Tournaments – until now.

Infact - in the ODI format – India Women had made it to the Finals of the World Cup tournaments in the past – but when it came to the T20 format of the game – this was their very first time appearing in the Finals of the T20 World Cup too!!

And to make it till this point is a remarkable feat for The India Women Unit indeed – for they had literally and comprehensively stunned everyone in the cricketing world with their performance this tournament winning - 7 out of those 8 matches played in the group stages – losing just One to Australia by an aching margin of Two Runs and yet besides that one Loss –they made their way towards sealing their spot at the Top of the Group Table straight into the knockouts with 14 points to their name and an incredible positive run rate!

The Group A in the Pool had consisted of – India, Australia, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh and Group B consisted off teams from – South Africa, England, West Indies, Pakistan and Thailand.

India slotted 1 in the Group A stage(As mentioned prior) and Australia slotted in 2 in the group stage with 12 points to their name for they won 6 matches in the group stage too and lost one to New Zealnd Women. In Group B – it was England and South Africa that made it to the Knock – out Stages!

India Women beat England Women in a Thrilling 10 run victory at the MCG in the First Semi Final of the Tournament – sealing their spot in the final- three days ago – on the 1st of November. And on the 2nd of November , in the 2nd Semi Final of the tournament at the MCG– Australia Women beat South Africa Women in a thrilling 5 run victory – sealing their spot in the Finals along with India – in line for The World Cup!

The teams travelled from Melbourne to Sydney, yesterday and they are all checked into their respective Hotel's – getting prepped to Play the Game of Their Lives!

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10 : 00 AM – At a Hotel Room – In Sydney

Radha continues to pace in her room excitedly and she states looking at Nikhil and Varun who were just finishing up a quick breakfast in the room – " seriously boys...how can you even eat?? When I am going this crazy in anticipation and excitement right now...I mean..I can't even eat.. Literally...that's how excited I am..."

Nikhil chuckles as he takes a bite of his sandwich and he adds with a wink – "seriously Radha...the finals only begin at 7pm alright? which is literally 9 more hours to go... are you going to starve till then? Or is it that you are just too excited because we are all set to leave soon to cover the collective photoshoot of Australia Women and India Women at the Sydney Cricket Association and a pre match conference after that...or wait...is it also because most of our Men in Blue will be joining in for another collective Photoshoot with Australia Men after the women's pre match conference ends?"

Radha grins as she says – " oh come on Niks..you know it's amazing that both the Men's team from India and Australia have come out this way to Sydney to support their women counterparts for the finale game this way...I mean it was easier for the Austrialia's men's team to travel to Sydney since they were all mostly on a little break in their respective homes..here in the very some country...Its our team that's literally flown in from the other side of the world... ,"and she pauses and adds continuing to grin – " I mean to be honest...I didn't really think that BCCI would actually manage to pull this off last minute after our women's team finished on top of the table – I mean – as excited as they plus most of women in sports fans have been back In India by the performance of our women's team till this point – it's totally justified that the BCCI actually requested our entire T20 Men's Unit current squad to fly in here to Sydney along with a contingent of some officials from back home in support of our women's team just in time for the final...,"and she pauses and adds – " I mean they surely were trying to get everyone here in time for the Semi's too...but because of last minute travel and stuff for everyone that didn't work out ..but I am so glad..that they could all make it here just in time for the Final.."

Nikhil chuckles to that as he adds – " and you my friend are just glad that Natraj Sir arranged for you to fly in before the Semi's of our team...well in advance..."

Radha nods excitedly – "well yes..to that..I wouldn't have missed that Semi- final ever...,"and she pauses and adds – " its truly commendable for BCCI to take this step ya guys..for it shows the effort from their end to end this gender disparity in sport in the minds of the public back at home...I Mean..our Mens team were touted to be on a 15 day break anyway after their return from yet another successful tour from South Africa...but I think it really was amazing that the BCCI requested them to use a little days off their break and travel here yet again in support of our women's team..."

Nikhil nods grinning continuing to eat – " well ofcourse Radha...these efforts by the BCCI will make all the difference back in the minds of the our cricketing public...it surely is...we can see the rise in the excitement and interest can't we? As our women's team prep to play the final tonight? ,"and as Radha nods happily in acknowledgement he pauses and adds – " and remember I told you? that they are surely going to talks about a Mini IPL kind of 4 match series for our women's team too after they return from here...I think the BCCI will be planning something..before the year ends..a mini one..yes..for now...but it's a great start to a fresh chapter yet again..."

Radha nods excitedly still pacing.

Nikhil chuckles – " oh come on now..atleast sit down..have a bite..."

Radha groans – " nope...nope I just can't..alright??"

Varun chuckles as he adds now sipping his coffee – " so Nikhil sir..the latter bit of what you said earlier is exactly what this is about I guess as...Radha Maam's excitement is totally doubled because our Men's Team is here...too which is why she cannot eat..."

Radha rolls her eyes at Varun as she states keeping her hands on her waist taking a playful jibe at him – " Varun..remember...I have to be one of the two who has to report about your performance as a field reporter to Natraj sir when we get back ok?," she finishes with a playful wink.

Varun groans – " oh come on Radha Maam..I was just pulling your leg..harmless fun...it is..."

Radha grins – " yes..harmless fun..,"and she gapes at Nikhil amused – " this is all because of you buddy...because you go on teasing me in front off him..."

Nikhil grins as he finishes his sandwich and gets up from his seat and walks upto Radha and holds her by the hand and walks her back to the seat across of him besides Varun and makes her sit holding her by the shoulders and then shoves a plate of sandwich in front of her and says amused – " eat ..please...and note this down mate...I am asking you to eat not because I am worried for you or something..I am just worried that you will faint out of starvation plus excitement ruining my plans to have my focus on the event and moment in front off me – which we have to work towards covering extensively....,"he finishes with a playful wink and takes his sip of coffee.

Radha chuckles at that and finally attempts to take a bite and Varun says after finishing his coffee – " okay Nikhil sir..Radha Maam...I will see you both soon...I will just catch up on some personal stuff that I have to before we set out for the day..for its going to be a long one.."

Radha and Nikhil nod at him grinning and he takes his leave.

The minute he does – Radha puts back her sandwich as she says – " nope...still can't freaking eat.."

Nikhil picks it up in his hands and gestures her to gulp it down come what may as he says – " oh please...Radha..I told you...I don't want you to distract me by fainting all right??"

Radha shrugs amused and says – " okay..okay..fine...I will gulp it down slowly...,"and she admits taking a small bite – " but to be honest Niks...I am also excited about the bit where in it actually turned out..that I really was right about my theories wasn't I??"

Nikhil chuckles sipping his coffee – " you mean because it turned out that ASR's brother Akash and Rohan's sister Payal really are tying the knot in wedding festivities starting tomorrow evening until the 7th..."

Radha winks – " exactly my friend I told you right? I mean now that we are nearer to the date and everyone of their close family and friends were seen travelling here yesterday too - it's all out that – the families have booked this exclusive Resort up in the Blue Mountains which is a 90 minute drive from Sydney as the wedding venue...but you must always remember that I was the first one to give you the heads up about the same..."

Nikhil chuckles – " yes yea Radha...I will remember that..,"and he pauses and adds – " on that note – I do think ASR, Rohan, Ravi , and Cap surely must have planned to travel along with their families on the 31st before the Semi's to see the India Women's semi final game – but I guess they had to make that last minute change with their travel plans given the fact that BCCI came up with the idea of requesting our entire men's unit to fly in alongside them...I think most of them were already flying in anyway but closer to the 7th perhaps?..since a lot of the team was anyway invited to his brother's wedding...right??"

Radha nods – " yup...I think BCCI's plan changed the things last minute for them...I mean like I said..the BCCI did try their best to have the team fly in for the semi- finals – but the flights were all sold out for those dates which kind off led them to just book the next best possible slot available...or else I was pretty sure that we would have seen Cap, Ravi, Rohan, ASR in the stands along with the rest of the immediate family's that we spotted in the family box that day at MCG...in Melborune..,"and she pauses to take a quick bite of the sandwich for now that she had finally begun to eat – hunger returned on reflex!

Nikhil nods continuing to sip his coffee – " on that note Radha ...I also think that this will be the first time that we might witness our entire T20 Men in Blue squad in the stands watching the women in blue play a live match...for its like otherwise their tours always clash with one another and such a scenario isn't possible....but am so glad it worked out this way...it's a World Cup final after all.."

Radha gulps down her bite excitedly – " oh my god Niks...yes....this truly is going to be a first time to that too...I mean...how kool is this ya...."

Nikhil chuckles as he adds – "continue eating buddy...don't choke please? or else I'd have to take you to the hospital now..."

Radha sticks her tongue out at Nikhil playfully – " I won't choke for sure..,"and it is right then she spots Nikhil choking on his sip of coffee with his eyes on the phone and Radha helps him get some water instantly as she asks – " ha...look who was pulling my leg a second ago?? You okay? Why did you just choke suddenly...?"

Nikhil sips on some water as he states taking a deep breath and states grinning – " because I just read a message from Natraj sir stating something that missed my eye..."

Radha asks – "what???"

Nikhil – "that its also the first time for our women's unit..that both our players are in the race for being the lead scorers and leading wicket takers this tournament...as in yes..I was aware that Khushi and Sheena are in that top 4 leading scorers table...alongside two Australian players but it seems that Harleen with her brilliant spin bowling in the semi's made it to that top 3 contenders spot too...and now it's all down to the final tonight...in between these two teams...which will finally decide – which players ends up being the lead scorer and leading wicket taker and of course the player of the tournament too..."

Radha nods grinning – " of course Niks...you will only remember the stats related to the Little Hit Girl now don't you???,"and she pauses and adds with a giggle – " I still can't believe the level of scowl that was on your face in the semi's with Hridhaan Singh Rajput being in the stands with his sister too alongside Vikram and everyone else from the Little hit girl's, Rohan's, and ASR's family...You do know that Hridhaan's family arrived this morning too? Right?? "

Nikhil scowls at her – " really Radha? Lets not go there please?and so what if his family came in too...a lot of our women's players families and friends were seen flying in too this morning..."

Radha winks – " yeah...but Hridhaan's family surely came in to support their future daughter in law..right??"

Nikhil sighs dramatically – " fine...Radha..go on..rub more salt over my unrequited crush...,"he finishes with a wink.

Radha says shooting him a apologetic look – " oops..sorry..ok how about this? You can totally rub salt on my unrequited crush too..."

With that the two of them share a happy laugh amidst themselves and Nikhil adds finishing his coffee happily – " jokes apart..hurry up now..Radha..we gotta rush soon..for we have a long day ahead..don't we??"

Radha nods in agreement – "oh yes we do...,"and with that she quickly starts to finish her meal – utterly excited and exhilarated with the day lined up ahead.

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The Context – in Background

Khushi's parents, Rahul, Anjali, Arnav's Parents, Dadi, Akash, Payal, Payal and Rohan's parents, Samaira, Noor, Sachi, Hridhaan, Shivi, Vikram, Jess's parents had all arrived on the night of the 31st October – at Melbourne just in time for the Semi's. They had all witnessed the Semi – Final Thrilling game at Melbourne with India Women finalising their spot in the Finals – a moment in time which was quite exhilarating for each of them too. After the win – Khushi and Jess had travelled back to Sydney for the final along with the rest of their team and everyone else in the family had proceeded with their personal arrangements of heading to Sydney.

BCCI's last minute plan in sending out a contingent in support of the women's unit in order to applaud their play so far this tournament and show their solid support towards their womens unit in the Final with the Hope to bridge the gap of the gender disparity in the sport in the public mindset back home – ended up changing the travel plans for Arnav, Cap, Ravi and Rohan who as an integral part of the unit were expected to travel alongside the T20 Unit and the BCCI officials with their departure arranged from Delhi on the 2nd morning but because of the long travel and Australia being ahead in time zone too – they only reached Sydney – late last evening(3rd evening) after which they all obviously went in for a formal congratulatory meet and greet meeting as a Unit with the Women's Unit. (And Arnav and Khushi had to pretend to be in a uber formal mode yet again – because Khushi wanted to make sure that they only came out in the open – after the World Cup Final was played – knowing very well that the professional limelight of her team will be overshadowed by just her personal one – in case anyone got a hint of them prior. And she did not want in anyway to overshadow the professional thunder that her entire team was experiencing in the Thrill off Reaching the Finals of the ICC T20 World Cup Tournament.)

The Women's Team were staying in the Hotel Four Points by Sheraton itself during their official stay here in Sydney during the tour and The Men's T20 Team who had arrived in support for their women counterparts were touted to stay officially in the Hotel InterContinental wherein they usually stay while on Tour in Sydney.

And since Khushi and Arnav's extended family and friends and near and dear ones had anyway arrived in Sydney yesterday evening too – just in time to see the Final and later on check into another Exclusive Resort for their wedding festivities – they were all currently staying spread out in groups in the Hotels Sheraton Grande and Marriott – which were all within the 1km vicinity of Sydney's City Centre. And each of the family friends, relatives and near and dear one's were waiting quite excitedly for Khushi and Arnav to announce their wedding for ever since they had known about the Two of Them Tying the knot – each of them were complying with the family in keeping up with the flutters of secrecy and decided cover!

However,due to the given buzz and the circumstances in hand – it hadn't been possible for Arnav and Khushi to meet yesterday in private for after the formal meet and greet with the men's unit – Khushi was caught up with her entire unit who had gathered in for strategy and group meetings after in continuous preparation for the Final and Arnav was caught up with the professional stuff happening around him too.

Hence – finally – Rahul and Anjali came up with the plan(anticipating the disappointment of their siblings) – of asking both Khushi and Arnav to step out of their respective hotels to meet the family here. Jess's parents , Vikram, Hridhaan, Shivi, His family were staying at Sheraton too which was how they insisted both Jess and Khushi to come over for a little while for breakfast with everyone here at the Club Floor of the Hotel where all their Rooms were and similarly Arnav, Rohan , Cap and Ravi were coming over from their Hotel – the Intercontinental for a collective breakfast with everyone as Noor and Arnav's Bua and her family were also staying at Sheraton and so were Rohan and Payal's immediate family + Cap's wife and daughter Sachi and baby Z.

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Same Time – 10:00 AM

At Sheraton Grand Hotel – Sydney

Rahul and Anjali's Suite ROOM

Khushi continues to pace crazily in anticipation in front off her Superbro and Anjali who are both looking at her utterly amused and she states pausing for her bit in her nervous charade with her hands on her waist , looking at the time on the wall – " uff ya Superbro and Anj...I mean..just look at the time..it's like 10am already...like just what is taking this elevator so long ya?? I mean ..just wait till this Skipper Blue comes now...I mean..as it is..we both had to get out of our respective hotels to come here where you all are staying ..so that we could meet in private for this little while...before we get consumed in our formal cricketing duties after..."

Rahul chuckles as he states to his Junior nudging Anjali happily – "Anj...what say? We should remind Junior to save up some energy..for the finale tonight??,"and he pauses and adds with a wink – " Junior if you are going to pace like this..you won't have any energy left to run in between the wickets later tonight...chill out..will you??"

Anjali chuckles and she adds teasing Khushi – " copy that Junior..we surely are hooting for you to play through your batting innings...tonight..."

Khushi gapes at them adorably – " well yes ya Anj...I surely am prepping up for that surely as well...,"and she pauses for a second taking in the amused expressions on their faces and she adds – "haan..haann..thike..thike...laugh..laugh...you two...I know you think this is highly amusing that we had to figure out a way to sneak out in private to meet in your room here...given the fact that it was truly impossible for us to get even a moment together otherwise even though we are officially staying with our teams in hotels like right across from one another.."

Anjali chuckles as she adds – " well it is funny Junior for sure.."

Khushi pouts chuckling a little – " well yes now that I think off it..it is funny ya Anj..I mean..just imagine..we still had to resort to Whtsapp yesterday..given the fact that we were both consumed by our respective team duties along our units after the formal meet and greet ....but..thank god Arnav totally co-operated with the formal charade at the meet and greet...although yes..it was uber difficult for Jess, Cap, Ravi and Rohan Sir to hold onto their smiles though.. for they were just reminded yet again off how we can be in our pretend mode.."

Rahul chuckles – "as we are already aware Junior.."

Khushi says continuing to pace again – " but uff ya Superbro..Anj..all this last minute cover up is super hard thike?I mean with this buzz with regards to our final now and the entire T20's Men's team arriving here along with the BCCI officials in our support..I mean all of that is great ya obviously for it means so much to us as a unit...but now I just have to be uber careful that the news about us does not leak out until we have played the final ..for you know my reasons for that...na? I would never want to take away the professional thunder my team is experiencing at the moment..."

Anjali and Rahul exchange a happy grin at that and walk up to hug their Junior from each of her sides kissing her head and Rahul adds – " yes we know...and I just have to say this again.. I am so proud of you Junior...we all are...I mean...just look at you..all set to play your very first ICC T20 World Cup Final tonight...,"and he pauses and adds hugging his sister lovingly – "and not to forget you are in the race of being the top scorer too..I am so proud of the way..you'v chased this dream of your's overcoming your challenges..both physical and the mind..."

Anjali nods as she adds brushing Khushi's hair lovingly – " your brother is right..Junior.."

Khushi winks at her happily – " wouldn't have been possible without your brother ya Anj..."

And they all share a happy warm laugh.

Khushi hugs them both back again as she adds lovingly – " uff ya you both..please don't get me all emotional right now please? I mean I already had a super emotional moment with Mom ,Dad, Dadi, Reva Mom, Abhi Dad, Akash , Payal, before they all went to the club lounge for breakfast...,"and she pauses and adds grinning – " and I am so glad that Jess took this little time to just chill with Vikram and uncle aunty for a bit too....its a good thing we sneaked out just in time...and now I am so excited for Kudrat to arrive..I mean I can't wait to introduce her to you all...or maybe I will just let Hridhaan take the lead on that ...it's a pity though that Jess and me won't be able to hang out longer with you all though..,"and just as she says that she remembers that they were short on time anyway and she looks up at Anj again as she asks eyeing the clock on the wall– " uff ya...where is he ya?? He is literally like seven minutes late..already..."

Anjali answers grinning – " Junior..I think...I know what is taking this Bhai a while to come up – he, Cap, Rohan and Ravi are probably being all surrounded by some of their cricketing fans in and around the reception lobby and stuff.."

Rahul and Khushi nod in unison – " probably yes..."

It is right then the doorbell rings and Anjali and Rahul anticipate it to be Arnav and they gesture Khushi that they will walk upto open the door. For knowing Arnav, well enough they were also sure that he would have come here alone with the hope of spending sometime with his Sparkle , before joining everyone up for a quick breakfast in the club lounge on the floor.

And just as they do open the door – they see a grinning Arnav standing there as he says in a rushed whisper - "Rahul..Anj..the reception was crowded..and we just got caught up in group selfies and autographs..for a bit.. Sparkle is in right?? Rohan, Ravi, Cap..are headed to the club lounge already to join everyone...just give us a little while..k? we will be there in 20 minutes..perhaps??"

Anjali nods at her brother excitedly – " ya ya..bhai..don't worry ..you go in.."

Rahul winks at Arnav as he says – " just one more day..Mr Groom to be...then there will be no need for the cover up.."

Arnav chuckles at that happily – "can't freaking wait..,"and he sidehugs Rahul and Anjali happily before they leave to walk out and he steps into their room and closes the door shut.

And just as he gets in – he spots His Sparkle – pacing in her steps nervously and she pauses as she takes his sight in there in front of her finally and just as he is about to rush to her to hug her in his arms she says to him adorably from her spot holding her hand up in a Stop sign – " Noo...Noo..No..No...Skipper Blue...You stay right there thike? I am not talking to you at all..."

Arnav bites back his smile lovingly stepping forward towards his Sparkle nonetheless and he adds grinning in an apologetic loving tone that he knows she loves – " oh come on Sparkle...I am dying to just hug you alright..as it is we are short on time darling..I am sorry for the seven minute delay meri jaan..Cap, Rohan ,Ravi and me just got caught up in the reception for a bit on our way up.."

Khushi bites back her smile now as her eyes lock with his unable to resist his loving tone and she leaps into Arnav's arms happily hugging him tight as she says – " only because I was dying to just hug you too..thike??"

Arnav chuckles as he kisses her head lovingly engulfing her in his arms completely – " godaamit...Sparkle...finally..."

Khushi pulls back instantly to his surprise as she gives him a mischievous grin placing her forefinger to his chest – "however...just so you know Skipper Blue..I said..that I would not talk to you because you were late or something alright? I told you the very same...because I can't believe you did not tell me – this is how crazily exciting this feels....that like Yo-Yo* Beyond all of Infinity feels consume dear stomach in the morning of the game of the World Cup Final....I mean..you have no idea how hard my intestines are fluttering at the moment..thike?? but it is my first time..not your's...you'v experienced this often...you surely could have given me the heads up that this is how exciting it actually feels....as a player..."

Arnav chuckles at that lovingly and pulls her into an instant hug again as he says – " oops..sorry about that Sparkle..let's just say that I didn't give you the Yo-Yo heads up...only because I wanted you to experience it for yourself..,"and he pulls up to lean forward to take her lips with his in a deep kiss as he whispers nearing her lips cupping her face in his hand – " and I also am quite excited for this cover up to finally end...I mean...these last hours seem to be the most difficult now..for sure..Sparkle...for technically our engagement function is tomorrow night..and here we are..still meeting in hiding...,"and he pauses as he is surprised to see Khushi putting her finger on his lips as she says adorably – " oh no...love...you did not just say that?"

He pulls back momentarily concerned, locking his gaze with hers and rubs her cheek lovingly – " what's wrong Sparkle??"

Khushi admits biting back her grin holding onto his wrist lovingly – " uff ya love...now that you reminded me that yes..techincally... it is our engagement tomorrow night for real – these Yo-Yo's*Beyond all of Inifinity have doubled in their speed now..and now it literally feels like I don't know what my insides are fluttering more over for...so its totally apt if I say that its sort off become like a Curious Case of the Yo-Yo – Cocktail in the pit of my stomach indeed...."

That makes them both share a warm laugh for about two seconds and Arnav finally whispers pulling Khushi closer into himself by the waist – " I love the sound of that Sparkle...but come on...we are short on time..let me kiss you good luck meri jaan...remember I earned some crazy brownie points at the formal meet and greet last night? I was like at my bestest pretend mode – ever..."

Khushi chuckles as she wraps her arms around his neck lovingly and tip toes on her feet – " well yes to that for sure..and know this Skipper Blue...I shall only redeem these points in kisses right now..in hope that you shall continue to be in your bestest pretend mode in front of both our teams in the collective photoshoot after with the Australia Women and Men's team – you know after our women's entire pre match conference is done and stuff?? Promise me that you will not look at me when you think no one is watching..."

Arnav nods giving her his best innocent look (The one she cannot resist ever ) - "I promise..Sparkle.."

Khushi grins leaning in closer into him – " pakka se promise??"

Arnav leans closer into her – " pakka se promise..."

And just like that they both lean in and hold each other tight to kiss each other madly for about the next five minutes or so before Arnav feels Khushi's vibe into their kiss get all vulnerable and to his surprise she breaks away momentarily to just hug him tighter – kissing him over his heart.

He cups her face lovingly making her look up at him straight into the eye and he asks –" kya hua?? What's wrong Sparkle??"

Khushi admits emotions returning to engulf her eyes – " amidst all of my excitement Arnav..I..I...I just totally forgot that...oh my god ya.....I am such a bundle of nervous now..as this thought just came in...,"and she just hugs him harder and admits softly burying her face within his chest – " that I will be playing at the SCG tonight for the first time – after.....as in..the final..tonight..it's at the Sydney Cricket Ground..where...I...I...,"and she pauses knowing very well that he will get the inference.

He Understood the inference of course. And the fact that the inference came along with a vulnerable emotion that led to Arnav's body language stiffening up in the memory of seeing His Sparkle getting injured on TV on the very same ground months ago in January – did not miss Khushi's perception at all.

She adds just hugging him tighter – " oh god..Love...just stepping into the dressing room or the ground will bring back the memories of that day I guess..and its aftermath...but I am glad I thought this now..in your arms..for it means that I have the full day ahead to prep myself for the moment in my head...coz I have to face it come what may right? it's my first ever final of any major tournament...and that too this is the ICC World Cup...I cannot let the angst from my injury haunt me...I just cannot...not today....,"and she pauses as a few emotional tears leave her eyes.

Arnav just hugs her hard into himself as he fights his minds aching flashbacks of that painful moment in time and he kisses her head over and over – " Sparkle....you will be okay...you will be more than just okay...I have faith....in You... meri jaan...just keep looking ahead like you have been all this while...just focus on how far you have come alright?I know..this is going to be challenging mentally in many ways...especially if you are asked to go field in at long off/third man...,"he pauses sure that Khushi had caught onto the underlying tinch of worry in his voice.

Khushi pulls back caressing his cheek lovingly – " uff ya...love..look at this..I worried you...you don't worry at all ok? I will be okay... Its just that my Yo-Yo cocktail got mixed with crazy angsty nervousness for a bit..but now that I am processing this through...I think I will be ok..,"and she pauses and adds leaning up to kiss him – " I guess..you just need to keep kissing me good luck meri jaan...that should ease me down further..,"and she leans up on her toes and takes Arnav's lips with hers in a deep emotional vulnerable kiss.

Four minutes later – as Arnav continued to engulf her in his arms and kiss her madly – he felt her pull back suddenly again and this time around her eyes were glinting with happy mischief and he asks – " now what Sparkle??god.... you are the one who is set to play the World Cup final tonight..and it's like you'v got my stomach knotting into a Yo-Yo cocktail with array of emotions..."

Khushi chuckles as she says happily – "well that's because dear heart just came up with the perfect thought that it could...while kissing you just now..to ease out...dear mind's angsty nervousness..."

Arnav chuckles happily at that and keeps his forhead on hers – " enlighten me..please...Sparkle.."

Khushi looks deep into his eyes and she says caressing his cheek tenderly with her thumb – " that so what if this is the first time I will be playing at the SCG after I was injured that way...it is also the very first time – that the love of my life is going to watch me play live from the stands...right? and the minute dear heart equated that very thought with dear mind – dear mind kind of had no choice but to just cancel out all the angsty nervousness on reflex...I mean...you will be watching me play...live..for like the very first time ever...Skipper Blue...finally...and that too in the Final of the World Cup....of course the happiness of that..totally tops it all...so yeah..now...I am not going to think off SCG as the ground where I was injured..I will just think off it as a spot where I played my very first World Cup final..and where in you will see me play Live for the first time too..."

Arnav takes her lips briefly in an emotionally vulnerable kiss for a minute and he says after whispering into her– " you have no idea how excited I am too Sparkle..to finally experience the moment of watching you play live from the stands...you know that I have been dying to live that experience..."

Khushi nods in an instant acknowledgement and understanding and adds caressing his cheek again – " I know..and to be honest..now that I look at it love...as bummed out as you were due to the change in travel plans and missing out on watching me playing the semi-final live with everyone at Melbourne...I think...it was meant to be this way perhaps??? that you were meant to see me play Live for the first time on the very ground I was injured so that we can both counter those angsty energies of that moment in our memories..I guess??"

Arnav nods in an instant understanding and kisses the side of her lips – " godammit....Yes...Sparkle...yeah damm right...it was probably just meant to be this way...godammit...the things you make me feel..."

And just as they were both about to lean in for another kiss – Arnav's phone buzzes with Anjali's call telling him that everyone was now waiting for them in the lounge as breakfast had already begun.

Khushi takes a deep breathe as she says shooting him a disappointed look – " we gotta rush now I guess Skipper Blue...for me and Jess have to leave in a bit to join the team back before we head out for all the formalities lined up.."

Arnav nods at her and kisses her forhead lovingly – "okay...yes..and I know I wont get to say this to you after in private Sparkle...which is why I need to say this to you now...just enjoy yourself out there on our beloved 22 yards playing your very first final of an ICC World Cup tournament..and it shall be a good game to remember in the Heart...anyway...all the best to you My Cinderella Version Helmet and Bat...all the very freaking best to you..."

Khushi nods at him emotionally and they both hug each other hard one more time before they finally begin to make their way out and just as they are nearing the door– Khushi holds Arnav's hand for a second – pulling him back into a close hug again and she whispers against Arnav's chest softly – " You are like my Magical Cocktail of Calm...love...you know that don't you??"

Arnav pulls her up after holding her close for twenty seconds and then kisses her forehead lovingly and he adds winking at her – " I know...and you are mine...you know that don't you..Sparkle??"

Khushi nods and they both share a heartfelt smile and she says kissing his hand giving him a playful wink – " ok then..no holding hands in the hotel's corridor for this last time...from tomorrow onwards you can hold my hand all you want..and where-ever too...,"and she nudges Arnav in the arm happily to raise an imaginary toast and he does and she adds grinning– " to our pretend mode...for this one last time..."

Arnav chuckle and adds – " to our pretend mode...for this one last time.."

And just as they are about to step out – Khushi's phone buzzes with a Text and she pauses to look into her phone and adds grinning – " its Madan...love...he's been messaging me since yesterday...good luck..every hour...but I can't believe he is up right now its 530 am in India right now...I will just tell him to go back to sleep assuring him that I will also call him before going in to Play tonight..."

Arnav nods and see's Khushi reply back quickly and just as they are about to step out again – in pops in a Video on her phone from Madan with the line saying – Sorry Khushi didi..yeh raat ko bhejna tha aapko...par abhi neend khuli toh yaad ayaa kin ai bheja..ab main sota hoon.( Sorry Khushi Didi...I had to send this video to you last night..but I forgot too and now that my sleep broke a little I realised that I had to share this with you...I will sleep now)

Khushi looks at Arnav again curiously closing the door shut back for a second – " love..this looks like a group video or something.."

Arnav leans in to look into her phone as he says – " cmon then...download it Sparkle..."

She Does.

And just as she presses Play – and they both see a collective happy cheering and best wishes video of Madan's entire village's children community and their parents (Whom Khushi was supporting in terms of their education) – cheer and wish Khushi all the Best for the Finale tonight – both their heart warm up with happiness yet again and Arnav sidehugs Khushi lovingly and kisses her head as he says – " see Sparkle...such heartwarming wishes...just for you...your compassion truly had lit up their lives meri jaan...look at how excited they are for you...."

Khushi hugs Arnav happily and she says wiping her happy tears – " I know..love...this ..just feels amazing... this is so so sweet of them ya...to actually get together in this collective group video to send me these heartfelt wishes,"and she pauses and adds - " I will go to see them all..once I am back to India..after our wedding thike??"

Arnav nods hugging her tight – " ofcourse Sparkle...whatever you want..."

Khushi pulls back now and kisses Arnav's hand lovingly and she says taking a deep breathe, determination taking over her mind as the heartfelt wishes she had just seen on the video continued to fuel her with immense happiness and gratitude– " know what Skipper Blue...I am not going to back off on the ground today..for sure... I will face things head on...I will field on long off/ third man like I usually do...even if that means I have to take my spot back on the spot I was injured....for this Yo*Yo Cocktail in the pit of your Sparkle's stomach just got mixed with a superheavy dose of determination and gratitude yet again...indeed...."

Arnav nods at her sincerely and cups her face lovingly – " and I love that spark of determination in your eyes my Little Hit Girl...,"and he hugs her tight for a second and adds sincerely – " just be careful okay though??"

Khushi kisses over his heart – " I will be Skipper Blue..for sure..,"and they both exchange a brief emotional ten second intense kiss followed by another meaningful eyelock before they finally step out to make their way out the room to join in everyone – with Khushi feeling all set – to embrace The Yo*Yo Cockatil in the Pit of her Stomach and take on the Monumental Day – Ahead!

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

TADAAAA.

How was the Update Guysssss?? Will be eager to know what you all think? I obviously wanted to Set The Stage for My Next Update with this medium one coming in Prior.

Yes.Yes. Guys. We are Now right almost there to the Much-Awaited Moment in the Story!

Next Chapter Title – Chapter 47 – World Cup...Hungama..And..You!

Next Update Schedule : Late Saturday Night !!

Have a Great Week ahead everyone.Please continue to take necessary precautions while out and Stay Safe everyone – the Covid numbers seem to be at a Rise Again!!

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love.

Always.

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