TAKE 7 - Stumps

3 years ago

mysticaltales11111

@mysticltales111

Hellooooo Guysssssssss....

Hope you and your family all are Safe and Sound amidst the rising Covid Tsunami in India. Stay in and Stay Safe – Guysss!!🙏🙏🙏🙏

So Yup here I am on Saturday with the next update off HW3.0.We are now Four Days forward into the Story😉😉😉🤗🤗❤❤

Word Count – Medium-Long in Length – 8.7 K Words.✍✍👩‍💻👩‍💻

Taking some hours off to just Write this Out finally has truly been my Respite in taking my Mind Off – Everything Covid! And I truly hope – that you are able to experience some distraction and entertainment through the Story Too🤗❤🙏‍💻

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 all dive in without Further Delay.

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TAKE 7 – Stumps

Four Days Later

Four Days Later

25th Feb, 2019 – (LastDay/Day 5 0f the First Test Match)

Pre- Context into the First Test Match : The India vs England – Test Match has been underway at the Lord's for the last four days. India had won the toss and elected to bat first and their dominant and steady first innings with the bat only ended on Day 2 after the end off Session 2 before breaking for Tea.

India had scored – 320 runs in the first innings.(With the bat - Ved Khanna was the leading run scorer with 101 runs).England managed to score 260 runs in their first innings until they were declared all out. (With the ball the best performer for India in the first innings was ASR with 4 wickets to his name +having conceding only 55 runs in the massive 25 overs spell he had bowled.

So by the time India went into the second innings on Day 3 – in the last session they had a significant lead off 60 runs in their bank. The team strategically played steadily and slowly again – in the last session of Day 3 and all the three sessions in Day 4 and finished with 210 runs on the board.(Ved Khanna being the lead scorer with 75 runs in the second innings again).

So now – it all came down to the last Day. England needed 210+ 60 (from the previous innings trail) a total off 271 runs– in order to win the Test Match.

The Day 5's day of play had just begun at 10:00 am this morning. Both the teams knew that even after four gruelling days of Intense cricket - it could still go either way on the last and final day! Such was the vintage beauty of the Test Match format in the sport or as they fondly also call it as the First Class Cricket. No wonder - It is often considered as the most complete examination of a team's endurance and ability.

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Same Morning – 25th Feb, 2019

At Maya's ART Studio

10: 15 AM

Khushi's POV

Commentator 1 - "Blimey. Goodness Me. That delivery was an absolute Ripper. Wilson's absolutely stumped with the way – his Leg Stump has ripped off the ground behind him – going all flies in the air. Yup. He can't believe it. The Umpire's Finger goes UP.It's OUT.And while the Indian team breaks into a happy celebration – Wilson's drowning in the waves of dismay.He is absolutely bewildered. Extremely disappointed with himself for losing his wicket within the first fifteen minutes of the First Session on the final day of this First test match."

Commentator 2 - "Oh my my my – disappointment would be the understatement. Find me a better adjective for the same will you? Wilson is absolutely ripped with shock still as he finally begins to make that long walk back to the Pavilion. The Indian unit is stoked with ecstatcy – for it's just the start they were looking for! Look at that pumped up celebration.Their Skipper is all smiles now as he begins to take his place behind the Stumps.A good strategy by him to bring in ASR in early to bowl in to Wilson – yet again. Also I reckon – its ASR's whose probably feeling a lot more happier right now with his pumped-celebrations on field with a couple of his team-mates still."

Commentator 1 - "Ofcourse he would be the happier one mate.For Once again – he has managed to get the better of Wilson's bat. And this one surely hurts more. For Wilson was surely looking out for some redemption with his Bat in this second innings – after falling to the very first ball in the first innings too on that last session on Day 2 – nipping ASR's deceptive spin with an Inside Edge straight into the hands of India's Deputy – Ved Khanna at first slip then. ASR had his Skipper's confidence in setting the field – with Aggressive fielding positions then too. He's just grown accustomed with playing into Wilson's mind over a while. He knew exactly what he wanted to do and executed it out to the T.Even just a minute ago - he asked for that little field change before getting into bowl in this previous delivery to Wilson. Asked his Skip to get a fielder up closer at Silly Point. Deceive Wilson to manipulate his footwork in for a shot – leading him to expose his Leg Stump – which was exactly the one he was probably aiming to clean-bowl.."

Commentator 2 - " Yes – indeed. That was the exact plan he was wanting to execute and once you take in that dismayed disappointment emotion on Wilson's face as he nears the dug out – it's obvious that he is furious with himself for falling for ASR's mind game into his head by tactially using the fielding positions – yet again. But to his credit – it wasn't just about the tactical play with the field this time around. That delivery was an absolute deceptive Ripper. Wasn't his traditional spin. Not at all. It was that traditional Deceptive Spin at the Medium Pace off 120km/h. A lethal weapon off that golden arm.Its been a while since we witnessed that kind off a Spin+ Pace together here at the Lord's – indeed..."

Commentator 1 - "Brings back absolutely daunting dominating memories from the days of our very own Sydney Barnes. The England unit knows better than anyone else – what that lethal combination of pace, swing and spin can do! India came prepped well to deal with our express pacers/their swing and bounce.England's surely got to begin to get more prepared to handle this latest armoury off India's premier bowling all arounder's Arm.He's surprised them with the mix of pace*spin. A start England weren't looking for sure ladies and gentleman. But it is what it is – England are 6/1 – in Five overs within the first fifteen minutes of this first session.Wilson goes for Duck. Allen batting on 6. Collin's just come in to join him on pitch. ASR to continue with the last ball of this Over. England's still got to score – 265 runs by the end of the day to win this first test match. India need just nine more wickets for the taste of their first victory to begin their tour with! Collin and Allen got to focus on some solid defence for a while. England cannot afford to lose another wicket- now.

"Holy Hell. Did you just see that? Collin's just escaped an LBW. What has ASR eaten for breakfast this morning?? Just look at that bloody variation. He just took that pace off his delivery immediately manipulating it to come in like is traditional off spin to Collins. Collin's just glad that he could escape the LBW. ASR is all smiles – as he gets a pat on his arm from his Deputy and some more team-mates yet again. And why not? He's done exactly what his team wanted. Got Wilson out – in the very first over he has bowled this morning. And has totally Unsettled the top-order batsmen on the crease. I reckon – the Indian skip is going to continue rotating with their ace pacers – Daksh + Sherma and also ASR from either ends for a while. Not allow the batsmen to settle would be their strategy perhaps???"

The minute we finish hearing this last bit off it up screen in between the commentators commenting up on the Live Game in between of England and India and the preparation for the next over in the game begins and we spot Arnav now heading to his fielding position at mid-wicket – I finally give Maya a knowing amused look as I say – "Maya come on – can we now pull that volume down a little??Arnav will come in to bowl only after two more overs I guess..."

Maya chuckles and nods – " Yup...K...now we totally can. Come – on – you gotta admit it. This was uber fun – to just listen onto Louder. I mean – if Sarah were here with us right now – she'd be all like – In your face – Rob. In your freaking Face – but because its just you and me right now – I'd be kinder and just say - Hell Yeah ASR – thank you so very much for that yet again..,"and she gives me a playful wink instructing Alexa to now tone down the volume off the TV screen mounted on the wall – in her Art Studio. I'v been over her's since breakfast this morning around 9:00AM.After breakfast – we came into her Art Studio/Workshop – to begin with her day's planned work. Given that I am on my break – I just wanted to chill with her today and help out with some artwork/social media stuff for her business too.

Also – we had the Test Match up on screen the minute it started at 10:00 am. But she raked the volume up on Full (the hightest)– the minute Arnav was handed the ball for his first over in the fifth over off this first session by his Skipper to bowl into Rob and Mark. Mark Allen opens alongside Rob in the Tests. Uptil then it was India's fast pacers who had been alternating in between bowling the first four overs.She also gestured me to pause on the work we were doing to just watch Arnav's over with complete attention. I paused on the same – willingly keen on watching him play his first over this morning too.

Maya winks at me and asks – "but hey – how about if I still tone up the volume out to the middle spectrum. You know – ASR could still run someone out with his killer aim of the arm with a direct hit at the stumps like he ran out Smith in the first innings too. He's super aggressive in the field – a reason why his Skip always has him around and nearer to the 30-yard circle??"

Yup.

Guys.

Maya's totally hopped onto the ASR fan club – Bus.

I gape at her amused – " ahaan? Team ASR are we now Maya??"

She winks at me – " ofcourse K – too bad he doesn't play for England though. You know I do feel guilty for ditching on my nationalism sentiments for England when they play India anyway. But hey – given that its India I am rooted from – at the end of the day – why not?? I mean I am all for England whenever they are playing anyone else. So it total's up fair right??"( Maya's family are rooted from Punjab, India. They moved to the UK in the 1980's and most of their close and extended family members are settled in the UK now too.)

I smile at her as I resume my bit of helping her paint up a side of this amazing piece of pottery she had created a couple of days prior and I admit – " well – yes its fair..just like it's also fair – that I do not pick any sides in this game – given Mum's situation..."

She picks up her paint brush again– dipping it into the pastel shade she was painting the other side of this Pot – with and winks at me playfully from across this huge table in between of us – taking her seat on the stool – " I get that...but hey.. come on..K...admit it – you are totally on the ASR fan bus too..."

I narrow my eyes at her as I say – " Maya – do not start being cheeky this early in the morning..please..."

She winks – " ahaan? why not? Also K – I am sure you would agree that the Tests whites makes him look so much more rakish. Rob always looked killer in the same – yeah. But given that I aint Team Rob anymore – gotta just say that it's ASR the one whose a lot more appealing to the eye – isn't he? Come on – admit it"

I groan and gape at her at the same time – " Maya...stop...please???,"and I begin to paint my side of the pot.

She winks at me again – " ahaan? why should I?? haan? I a'int the one – whose been constantly chatting up with him in the last four days. It's the two of you whov'e been at it so much so that I should technically just say that you'r both kind off perpetually living in each other's DM's on Instagram..."

Hmmmmmmm.

Well. She is right about major parts of that. Ever since – he DM-ed me on the night of 20th Feb – we'v been catching up on DM's on Instagram all the time – after. It began with his text next morning – before he headed out the game and I just inevitably felt myself feeling keen to reply.After which its been a given constant in between of us – to keep in touch throughout various times/intervals of the day.( (When he is not playing on field obviously).

He talks about his day and I talk about mine. He talks about those little day-to day – life things going on around him awhich just makes me end up doing the same. Plus now that we have got texting – we kind off end up talking about anything and everything. We'v figured out some more elements that are common in between of us – like – our taste and enjoyment for a similar palate off spice or the bit that we enjoy the flavour off same world cuisines, same genre of movies, or the strange fact that we both would love to travel more often on the trains instead of the usual flights.

We'v also figured out some elements of our interests that are different too like we do enjoy different tunes/tastes in Music.He is the total adrenaline junkie in his head and has that crazy wishlist of wanting to skydive and jump off the planes(but he cannot indulge in the same as long as he is playing for India as he's bound by the contract). Where as – Sky Diving's surely not on my List. Scuba Diving is on my wish list – and it's not on his wish list.He is not much of a water person. His love for swimming and water only limits to his fun time by the Pool. He'd not comfortable stepping into the Sea's and Oceans.

And then there are times – he will just bring in a deeper philosophical perception into picture and I will find myself getting intrigued (as usual)to know more. I have been deeply intrigued by the one secret wish of his list that he talked to me about last night too – about him just wanting to backpack and travel solo around the world one day – meeting different people from different cultures and note/record down different anecdotes/life experiences from their Life.

So the bottom line is that - He literally intrigues me in the ways no man ever has before. I'v never met anyone like Him – for Real. On one side – he's this fun loving –jovial person that enjoys takings Life's moments in joyful stride and he's so grounded too.(no matter how famous he is on the outside + his work space). And then – on the other side there's this deep philosophical side of his that likes to perceive/analyse and view – Life – through this super sorted Lens. And I am not sure – which side of his is beginning to grow on me more. It's both – perhaps?

Either ways – something about him's just been drawing me to him – Immense. And you know the bit that's stranger? It's the bit that I am also actively texting him back always! Even though I am not really much of a Text person. As in ofcourse I text on Whtsapp – Insta – generally with all my friends on and off.(But I usually prefer voice notes.) Plus – It's never been as crazy like this. I am literally glued to my phone – on text - all the time – with him on the other side.

Hmmmmmmmm.

Also I wouldn't admit it out loud to Maya yet. But I gotta admit the bit in my head that – That boyish rakish charm+ enigmatic Aura of his deep perceptive earthy eyes + this uber comfortable vibe in between of us =quates into him coming across as Super Appealing to my eyes too. Of-course he is Hot. Super-Hot.

I pause on my thought as Maya snaps her fingers in front of my face and she asks grinning – " there you go? Spacing into Thinking about him again..arent you?"

I shrug and admit with a nervous chuckle – " yeah kind off...Maya...I can't help it alright? as in – my thoughts just travel to him on their own.And you can't really blame me – for there's something about him that just keeps lingering in there. How's it possible for this to happen this way though? I mean – it's me – I'v always been able to construct walls and forts around myself easily right? then why am I failing so terribly at it when its coming down to him? Why does it feel like – he's bulldozing his way into my freaking mind as if he were equipped with this hi tech bulldozer that had the knack to send my walls crashing in my head – even before I could pick up the bricks and cements to build it....just why?? just why is he so freaking cool again????"

Maya grins as she gestures to the TV Screen – " yeah – because see – he can pull off a heart-stopping- run out like the one he just did. He just hit Collins stumps.Godammit – that arm off his is platinum indeed....let's get that volume up for a bit?and we can continue talking about him after?"

I nod and smile at that on reflex as she does the same and two minutes later once we finish watching him engage in the celebrations on field with his team - Maya instructs Alexa to get the volume down- and I ask with a sigh picking up my brush again – " those red alert alarms still find ways to keep buzzing in my head Maya.And the other part of me that's become more dominant off wanting to know him more – just keeps snoozing it. Am I walking into trouble – Maya? I don't think I'v ever felt this drawn to any man ever before – in these crazy magnetic ways...I mean – I met him what literally nine days ago.right? please tell me you have some logic that can justify this scenario in between of us??Please tell me that you some logic to justify the bit where in – I'v been beginning to feel my pulse literally jump up my throat – in those moments when I am talking to him on the other end on text....in these last couple of days..."

Maya leans forward and clutches on my hand and smiles at me warmly – " sometimes – logics fail to come into justification K – logics don't defy rule's usually – but what you feel in moments like these do...,"and she pauses to ask – " anyways tell me – given that he's leaving London tomorrow afternoon to head to Birmingham for the second test – you are going to see him tonight right..like he asked to see you??"

I nod at her – " yeah – I am going to see him tonight. I just have to decide the place though and text him the same. I will do the same after – the match is over at his end...."( Even though we'v been in touch all the time in these last four days on text – we couldn't really meet in person again - given that something on his end/my end – ended up coming up.But Arnav was keen that he most surely wanted to see me tonight before he left for Birmingham tomorrow – and I agreed in a go because a part of me wants to see him – again)

I share a thought on my head back out loud to Maya – "know what Maya? I don't know – if we will continue to be in touch this way after he leaves London though.."

Maya rolls her eyes at me – " and what if you continue to be? Do not let sceptiscim come in with doubts alright K? why not just go with the flow for once without restricting what you feel?see where it goes? Takes you?"

I give her a look as I admit – " yeah...but a part of me is scared – because...,"and I pause.

Maya smiles – " because for the first time – you feel like you are not in control over what you feel? For it's always been the other way round prior? Right??"

I nod at her.

She grins and clutches on my hand – "Don't worry. you will be okay – okay??he seems great...and you guys connect...that's what matters..."

I sigh – " okay..maybe I should snooze the worry...,"and I look up the screen again on reflex as I spot Arnav getting set to bowl in the next over now.

Godammit Arnav.

Why are you beginning to feel like that Thunderbolt of a bowling delivery that has this constant ability to clean-bowl my precious guarded Stumps off – too?

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2:45 PM

At Maya's Home

By the Island table in her Kitchen

Khushi's POV Continues

Maya and me, grin in unison as we walk up behind Sarah and hold her shoulders from either end as we nudge her to tap the -Enter -Button on her Laptop.

Sarah shoots us nervous looks and I groan – " come on S...just tap send will you?? I mean what if you get this?? It will be an amazing experience..for sure..."

Maya nods – " I second that S..come on...just tap enter already.."

Guys – remember the bit that Sarah's this excellent make-up artist?So usually – she freelances for personal events + modelling photoshoots+ fashion events etc and keeps super busy at that. But just two days before – she got this opportunity to apply for the spot off a Make-Up Artist with this international production house that's beginning to work on making Netflix Original content in the Middle East. They'v been looking out for some new free lancers to get on board for some specific assignments/projects alongside their usual in-house team. Sarah's been in two minds about this. But we have just been nudging her on! Today- Her work appointments for the day were ending by 2:00Pm which is why Maya and me just asked her to come over so that we could coax her into sending the email in front off us – after lunch. We finished lunch about seven minutes ago and Sarah's in the middle of tapping that final send in with her work portfolio to the company for review.

I groan as I look at Maya – " Maya...we just gotta click enter – on her behalf then..,"and I gape at Sarah in surprise as I say – " I can't believe you are so nervous about this S. I mean..you are never nervous. This could be a huge opportunity."

Sarah nods nervously – " yeah..my girls..you are right about that.Maybe I am so nervous because it could be a life changing one – I mean If this works out once – I'm afraid I'll start enjoying it too much perhaps??"

Maya chuckles – "really? that's the problem??," and she looks at me after sneaking a look into her phone – "yup – Brian's just texted that we must force send that email on her behalf...now...this very second..."

Sarah gets off the island stool and sips on some water nervously and looks at us and says with a gesture of her hand – " go on girls – you tap enter and get that email sending on my behalf..."

Maya and me – exchange a happy nod and get the email going – the very next second.

And we – high – five – happily.(And just like that as I am in the middle of the High-Five – in flashes Arnav's face into my head.Again.Now you guys know what I mean by the bit where in he just keeps lingering around at the back of my head and pops upfront into my thoughts out of no-where?)

Sarah snaps her fingers in front of my face this time around and adds with a wink – " ahaan...are we in Hangover ASR mode..again?? on that note – this tea break better be over soon. I need to know the result already...I mean I can't believe this – it's all come down to the last session of the final day with England needing 100 more runs for the win with 5 wickets still in hand. Oh – I am conflicted though over the result – only because ASR is turning out to be this supercool dude. Nationalism aside for a bit.I want India to win...Period."

Yup.Guys. Sarah's on the ASR Fan Bus too.

Also now you know why the volumes on Mute on the TV screen upfront. Because it's the 20-minute Tea Break after the second session– going On.And until now – Arnav's claimed One Wicket/executed out a run out + taken two catch outs over the deliveries of his team's two express pacers, who have shared the rest of the wicket figures in between of them – uptil this point.

I sip on some water myself now as I narrow my eyes at my soul-sisters as I say beginning to help Maya clean up – " very funny...S...no...I am not in ASR Hangover mode again...okay?"

Sarah raises her eyebrow at me mischievously as she exchanges a grin with Maya -
"ahaan? what were you thinking then??"

I state a part truth as I gesture them to join me back on the island table – "another things that's just been on my mind girls. As in now that I have had this nine-day break – it feels like it was more than enough for me. I am not used to relaxing so much. So yup – its decided.Now I am constantly going to help Maya with the graphics and promotional designs that she wants to use to promote her business venture on social media platforms + I am going to begin all my back work on some of my animation projects that I'v been keen on creating..."

Sarah grins as she says – "that sounds amazing – K. But please for my sake – just create a webtoon – please? pretty please???do it already....your so good....with your animation...and now you have the time...too...before Master's begin...think about this...please??"

So Webtoon's like any other comic. It's an animated cartoon/series of comic strips published online. But mostly – I'd say the Terms now got more to do with the Korean Wave. It's got a huge market in South Korea..And because Sarah loves her Korean Dramas and makes sure that Maya and Me – watch them with her too on and off – she's been after me to just conceptualise and create a Webtoon too.

I nod and grin – " yes S – your idea's on my mind...hopefully...one day..."

Sarah grins – "come on – you have the knack off animation art+ all your tech gadgets in place too – all you need is a series of anecdotes/tales you wanna narrate..."

I nod at her – " I know S – the minute a concept comes into my head on the same I will let you know first thing out.."

She nods and we fall into our usual comfortable chatter about what Brian/Jack have been upto all day too and five minutes later as we are in the middle of that – my phone buzzes up on the table upfront.

It's Mum.

I look up at the girls worried picking up the phone eyeing the screen – " that's weird...you know Mum never calls in the middle of the game until it's super urgent.The third session is minutes away from beginning. I hope everything's okay..."

Sarah and Maya say instantly – "go on pick up the phone...fast.."

I do.

I say in a rush – " Mum...how come you are calling when the game session is minutes away from beginning? Are you okay?"

I am surprised to hear a voice that is not Mum's answer in a rush of urgency – "Khushi...its Mike...I didn't have your personal contact details – so I asked Dr.J to connect me to you – she was going to talk to you about this first – given that I'v spoken to her but then Mr.Dawson called her...which is why she just handed me the phone..look...I have a huge favour to ask. I didn't know who I could turn to at this very last minute for help...,"he finishes in an urgent rush.( Mr.John Dawson is the administration head – in the support unit of the England Cricket Team. He's been there for years. Mum and him get along well as work colleagues.)

I feel a gush of relief go through me as I put the phone up on speaker now as I ask – " no worries Mike..go on tell me..what is it? how can I help you??"

(So.Mike is in the administration support unit. He's got an important role given that he is One Stop Work – Person in charge for the entire social media engagements/ art designs/graphics used in promotions for the England cricket team apart from creating the usual engaging content on behalf of the unit up and going online. He also travels alongside the unit on every tour.Given the importance of digital presence and his bosses(Mr Dawson's) wish to have him super hands on – with his job always. Remember – I bumped into Stacey and him the other day in the parking lot- outside the Indoor Nets area at Lord's?)

Sarah and Maya shoot me curious looks as Mike states – " okay..so a family emergency came up at my end Khushi...Dad had a stroke an hour ago..."

Oh shoot.

I say on reflex – "oh my god..Mike...I am so sorry to hear that – is he okay??"

Mike sighs – "yeah he is stable for now – luckily they could take him to NHS on time but he needs to undergo an urgent surgery tomorrow...and given the way Mum's panicking back there in Lancaster – it looks like I am going to have to train it back home tonight, which is why I need your help. The unit is going to depart to Birmingham tomorrow at Noon for the second test starting on the 1st March, and at this very last minute – I don't know if I can seek anyone to step in for me for a while – except for you – you did say you are on this little break from your usual job the other day right Khushi? Will you help me? just this one time? You're an animation artist yourself – so I don't have to worry about the art/graphics bit plus I know you have the experience of digital platform promotions with your last job at the digital marketing firm...."

I ask puzzled – "Mike?? Are you sure about this?? can't Stacey step in??also...Mr Dawson? What does he say?"

Mike sighs – "Stacey can't step in Khushi.She's got her bit to handle. I spoke to Senior Dawson – he says he is comfortable with you stepping in given that he's known you indirectly through Dr.J anyway. It's not easy for him to trust just about anyone at the last minute – with all our work details/work phone + gadgets/ online workings/passowrds...etc right?please khushi? Just for the next couple of weeks at the least until things getter with my Dad back at home..."

Maya and Sarah look at me as they silently mouth – " say – Yes – now..."

I gape at Maya and Sarah confused too. Why? Because – even though a part of my head is a tad bit sceptical about being around Rob because of the situation. I think the other part of my head – just overtook that thought and reminded me off the bit – that this could also mean that I would get to be alongside Mum on this tour around the country.And also probably get more opportunities to be around Arnav – given that the Indian Unit will also be touring alongside us too.Some red alert alarms buzz off again in my head at that – before they inevitably succumbed to their – Snoozed Off Fate – five seconds later.

We hear Mr Dawson's voice in the background closer now – "Mike – is Khushi ready to step in ?? Alice – speak to her on our behalf will you? I can't trust any body else with this – last minute – she also knows my working temperament through you over the years. She will be able to cope up..."

I hear Mum say in the background – " I know Dawson...but...let's just wait for her to take a call on this..yeah?"

So - if I say no – it will surely put Mum in an awkward spot.

I say instantly to Mike now – "know what Mike? I'll do it. okay??don't worry. you go home – take care of your Dad...k?"

In comes his relieved answer – "thank you so much Khushi. Can you come here...say now...to the Lords...in the next 30 minutes – the game finishes at 5 but I can give you run through the major workings all prior and after – until I am too depart for Kings Cross at 8:30 this evening....also don't worry about the commercials – you will be compensated for the work you put in..Khushi...Senior Dawson confirms on that..."

I look at the time on the wall – " okay...no worries Mike...the commercials were the last thing on my mind though – I am just glad to help you plus yes – if I leave now – I should be there in say 25 minutes?"

He answers – " great – see you then..also Dr.J wants to talk..,"and with that he probably hands the phone to Mum at his end for I hear her loving voice come through in a whisper – " hun...you didn't just say yes - because of me did you? you can still say no if you want. I know this will put you in an awkward spot around Rob but Mike was insisting he speak to you about it nonetheless...but you'v only got on this break after ages....know what? ill handle Dawson. We will figure something out. I do not want to put you in this awkward spot..."

I answer immediately now – " no Mum..please...don't worry about it? k? I was infact just telling Maya and Sarah a couple of minutes ago that I am done with all the chill/relaxation anyway.I will see you there in a bit okay? And on the plus side – I will get to be around you on this tour Mum....,"and I hear Mum answer happily – "well yes, my love – that is a major plus for me too. That part of me was already getting a little sad about jetting out again for we only return to London in the first week of April for the last T20 game...but hun...I am still worried about you feeling uncomfortable in this situation around Rob? You didn't want to see him remember? And now you inevitably will?"

I answer honestly as Arnav's words about the Bird's Eye View come to my mind on their own accord– "I know Mum...but given the situation - I guess I gotta just figure out a way to stop magnifying that bit off it in my head again and again. I think I need to pick up the pen and do something about this closure issue with Rob perhaps?" And I will once I am there.I add to myself silently.

"Alrighty honey...lets talk this out once you are here. You'll be here before the game ends then? I hope we win...its still close...,"she adds hopefully enthusiastic and we hang up after our usual byes.

The minute I hang up – Maya and Sarah sigh in relief too exchanging amusing grins as they add dramatically in unison – " thank god K – for a minute we thought you'd say No to that.And we would have killed you – if you did.."

I chuckle on reflex at that as I reach out for my bag – " oh come on girls...stop..."

They ask now a tad bit worried – " Rob's surely going to wana talk the minute he spots you? you ready with what you wana say?"

I nod as I admit - " yup...I am...I will fill you guys on it after ..k??"

Maya grins at that – "that sounds good – K..."

Sarah seconds that and she winks – "well I am just glad that you'll now get to be around ASR now – anyway."

I roll my eyes at them as I begin to make my way out the door – " girls..please...I got so much to do right now...can you please pull my leg later??also Maya – this doesn't change anything about our talk prior?alright? I will continue to help you as decided prior – even if I am travelling around..k?"

Maya nods and she adds with a happy wink – " Okies...K...I love you for that.."

I grin at them – " and I love you both. Laterzzz then??"

And they chuckle and nod – " laterzz K...and you know another thing we all love ??that good old chance card in the gameboard's now don't we – K??"

I chuckle at that on reflex – "yeah. But this isn't a gameboard guys.It's life – for real – also a moment where I say – that Only Chance probably knows what it's upto in here??"

They nod at me grinning. And with that I finally head out – Maya's door and get set on my way to Lords.

I am sure they know that the part of my head that's got Arnav lurking around in its corridors - is surely happy with this development – indeed. A reason why I have this subtle smile curved up my lips..Perhaps?

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

A While Later

4:50 PM

At the Lord's

Commentator 1 - " Stumped. Yet again. ASR's clean bowled Bailey's Off Stump with another deceptive delivery equipped with the lethal swing and spin. He's absolutely thrilled to pull of this hat-trick of wickets in what was destined to be the last over of the Game. The victory celebrations for India begin on field and with that - this intense game in between bat and ball finally comes to an end on Day 5 with just ten minutes short off the end of Play. Oh England's disappointed – all they needed was Bailey to churn out some solid defend and block for ten-fifteen more minutes and the game would have been a Draw given that India wouldn't have been able to claim all the wickets. But – it wasn't meant to be.Also you can't really blame Bailey for falling to that delivery. ASR was on that hat-rick ball. Once again – a good move by the Indian Skipper to bring him on for this over – given that England was 249 runs/7 wickets at the end of the previous over with the batsmen getting accustomed to blocking/defending/nipping decent shots above mid-wicket while tackling traditional express pace – and just 22 runs short of victory. Skipper Dev knew he had to bring in the mix of spin with that pace in the next over – in the hope of claiming the last three wickets. And once again – ASR hasn't disappointed the Captain of his Ship. He has delivered and How. He's executed the right line, length, and spot to get the better off the batsmen added with the aggressive field placement in tandem with his Skipper yet again. A – HatRick – Maiden for him to end the Game with the first three balls going for none and the last three going for wickets back to back!England lose the first test match by an aching 20 runs. It's apt that ASR tucks in that Red Ball in his pockets as a memento."

Commentator 2 - " Totally apt – and given the celebrations up on the field – we reckon that's what his team-mates are nudging him to do. The entire Indian squads up and out on the grounds. Yup – theyv plucked out the Stumps in a continuous celebration. I reckon – just hand the Stumps to ASR as a memento too"

Commentator 1 – " I reckon the same. Blimey. What a game has it been. Yes disheartening for England to lose with an aching margin as that.But nonetheless – this is that vintage charm of the good old first class Cricket. A true test of a team's endurance and ability, patience and grit. India were the better team this match. With the bat, ball and the on-point fielding. They'v shown immense intent and conviction at the very start of the tour."

Commentator 2 – " Yes. Also couple of milestones for the Indian top order batsmen too. Ved Khanna – crosses that milestone of 6000 runs in Test Cricket. Daksh – their express pacer entered the 200 wickets club. No wonder – the Indian Captain, Vice-Captain, Coaches, Support staff are all smiles with a co-hesive team performance as that"

Commentator 1 – " exactly. But a quest for the Man of the Match award surely remains in between Ved Khanna and ASR. Given that Khanna was the lead scorer for India this match – but I think – the award might be handed to ASR given the wholesome performance. He's got 8 wickets to his name this match – 4 in each of the innings at an excellent economy rate and has also contributed with a couple of run outs/catch outs – and ofcourse his two quick half centuries in both the innings – with all that power hitting towards the middle end of India's innings which made us all momentary think – that ASR's come out to play T20 with his bat dawned in test whites..."

Commentator 2 – "My point exactly. Let's see the list of awardees at the post match presentation which shall be beginning in the next couple of minutes on the ground. Congratulations to India for clinching this victory. They'v surely assigned some last-minute, home work to England to work on before the next test match at Edgbaston, in Birmingham - a couple of days from now..."

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

5:20 PM

Lord's – On the Ground

Arnav's POV

We all continue with our pumped-up celebrations – but in hushes and whispers in a group on the side as we wait for Skip to join us in after finishing his interview with the post-match presentation.

Guys.

I can't begin to tell you how Stoked we all are – at the moment. I mean – the Test Match Victory at Lord's always feels like dessert to our gaming taste buds. And personally - the fact that I was able to pull off that Maiden - Hat-Trick over to end the game – totally was like a bunch of cherries on top off all that Icing on the Cake. The prior icing was absolutely the bit – that I was able to get Wilson's wickets on both occasions in the two innings this test – match – obviously. Or wait – maybe that bit is the Extra Bunch of Cherries on the Cake?

Either ways – I am all grinning as I'v got the red ball tucked in my pockets as memoir. I told you all – it's taking Wickets that's always been my first love! Yup. I even mentioned that bit in the little interview with the presenter – after I received the player of the match award. They asked me – which part of my performance I was most satisfied with. In the field with those run outs/catch outs or the two half centuries in each of the innings or the wickets with the good old red ball. I obviously wasn't confused about the choice at all.

I pat Ved's arm happily now as I say – " dude – 6000 runs in Test cricket for you buddy – I am so happy for you..,"and he grins back at me happily and he states – " and I am so happy for you buddy – you pulled it in for us last minute – it was going too close for comfort..."

I thank him for the same and Raunak, Sameer, Ved, Daksh, Ish, Rishi,Ajay, Me – fall into our casual happy chatter again with the rest of the boys also lounging around in a smaller group next to us. Rishi is happily hugging onto the Stumps too.

Three minutes later – as Skip finally joins us all – we all begin to make our happy walk back to the dressing room.I clutch my player of the match – award happily in my hand –amidst all the happy chatter with my team-mates – and part of my thoughts now automatically tread towards the one whose totally pacing her way to that spot of being crowned as the Reigning Champion of the HangMan games functional in the back of my head – the minute my mind is off my game/cricket – off late.

I cannot even begin to tell you all how much she's begun to grow on me. In the last four days – everytime I am off picth/practice/training – all I'v wanted to do was – text her. Be in touch with her. And I have done just that. All the time.

I hear Skip add now – "okay boys – yes the first matchs done with and its been a sweet victory and..now on to the next – we are scheduled to depart for Birmingham – tomorrow at Noon...and I want everything to stick to its time schedule..."

We all nod in unison.

Dammit.

We leave London tomorrow and are going to return here only towards the end of the T20's.Which is why I made sure that I'd be meeting Khushi later tonight. The fact that I haven't been able to see her in the last four days – has been an absolute bummer.

On that note – I hope she's texted me the spot we are supposed to catch up on.Also I can't wait to get to my phone and get on Instagram and get into a little chat with her – instantly too. She did say earlier this morning that she was going to be chilling at Maya's and will be watching the match too.

I can't help but bite back my smile imagining her conflicted expressions over our Win just now. I mean I am sure she is happy for me but she's gotta be bummed out for her Mum's sake.

The minute we step indoors now into the common space in between the two dressing rooms – I hear Rishi add now gesturing to the far end – " oh look at the huddle of what looks like a meeting in between the England support unit. They are surely a little disappointed given that it was such a close game..."

Everyone exchanges a knowing nod – and I only look the way he's pointed at because of Dr.Alice – Khushi's Mum.You know just in case I spot her in the huddle.

And I end up pausing in my tracks for a second in sheer surprise – because I spot Khushi in the middle of that huddle next to her Mum in a deep conversation with the rest.

Wait.

She's here?

She came to see the match?? Live??

I gulp down my surprise masking it from reflecting on my face momentarily – and it is right very then – I see – Khushi look up our way across and our eyes lock from across subtly and I am sure that she could sense the part puzzlement in my eyes because she gives me that nervous smile with the subtle look in her eye that my mind reads to be – I will fill you in on this later.

I shoot her a subtle nod at that so that its obvious to just the two of us and begin to head into our dressing room with the rest of the unit with a puzzled smile marking my lips.(Which everyone else around me assumes to be the hangover of the Happiness from the Victory.Still)

Ok.

Maybe – I should just steal another look at her behind across, by subtly turning my head by pretending to be in conversation with Rishi and Ajay behind me? I mean – one's gotta respect the roll of Chance by giving it – its due – right? Now that Chance has finally given me that moment – to steal a glance at her prior to us meeting tonight.

Yup.

Good Idea.

Raizada.

Get acting on it.

I do just that and my puzzled smile shortens on its own accord as I spot the sight off Wilson nearing the group now and gesturing Khushi to come aside for a little talk. He seems to have freshened up after the game already. She excuses herself from the huddle and steps aside for a talk with him

Ok.

My Insides are totally scowling at that sight.

Am I envious of what I just saw?Not really.I respect the bit that he is her past. I am scowling within only because I know – that anything he'd say now might just upset Khushi. What the f****** hell? Oh ofcourse – he thinks the situation favours his circumstance – because Khushi has no other option to be cordial around him given her Mum's workspace.

Juts when I am about to turn my head around and get into the dressing room to mind my business momentarily – I spot Khushi looking out our way again from far across and our eyes lock subtly again, and once again she shoots me that nervous smile with the look – I will fill you in later – before she finally looks away and resumes her conversation with Wilson.

I just nod subtly again and make my way in with the rest of my team in.Everyone's rushing to their stations to do their thing. The minute I reach my locker – I switch on my phone first thing out and get into a little chat in the family group with Akash and Di – thanking them for their congratulatory wishes. They tell me that Mum and Dad are in their respective OPD's right now and we fix a family call in the next one hour.

Once I am done with that – I finally head to Instagram to check if Khushi's left me any texts on DM.

There are Two.

Khushi's text at 4:50 PM which reads : Arnav – congratulations on the win. Also for the player of the match.Okay. I cannot not wish you – on that even though I am conflicted because Mum's a little upset with the close loss. You know like how the temporary gaming emotions just take over.That's all.She will be all normal in a bit. Well – that Hat-Trick Maiden in the end was surely commendable. And guess what – I saw it Live. I can also see you get into that customary handshake with the rest of the England Team right now.Okay so – a development happened at my end because of which I had to rush here.I'v been so occupied with the same which is why I couldn't text you prior. I will fill you in on it all – later tonight when we meet.Ok? Batteries dying off and I am about to plug in my phone for charge.

Khushi's text at 4:52 PM : also yes – before this phone dies off on me. Given that its Wednesday night and it shall not be extremely crowded and will be closer to your hotel too – iv figured out a convenient spot to meet . Let's catch up on that intersection right before the London Bridge starts – at 9:00 PM?We can go for a walk around?k? I will see you there.

And just as I finish reading that.Literally Just like that – My Insides stop scowling and a Smile returns to Curve up my Lips – Again!

I see the time on my Phone.It's nearing 5:30 PM now. Well it's a good thing that I have victory celebrations with the team lined up – to keep me distracted for a bit. Until that clock hits – 9:00 PM.

Also, momentarily – I think I know exactly what I need to help me restore my mood back into Celebratory mode – in full swing.

I keep my phone back into my bag and I walk to Rishi as I ask – " Rishi – I know you and Ajay wana keep the Stumps as memoirs – given that you are now in the middle of getting it signed by everyone around. But if you don't mind? Can I just borrow that leg- stump as memoir – please? You can keep the middle and the off stump. I am cool with just one..."

Rishi gapes at me happily.He's just 20 and is a fresh addition in our T20 squad for this tour.He wasn't playing the Test but he's been as excited about the victory. He winks at me happily and states –" ofcourse ASR – you can have that leg stump for sure..but before that how about you just sign the middle and off stump for me – only your signature is left. I got everyone's else from the playing 11 already...,"and he hands me the marker pen.

I grin at him naturally and sign the other two stumps after which he hands the Leg Stump to me happily with a fist pump.And I walk back to my locker – grinning – rotating it happily in my hands.

So.

Why Did I want that Leg Stump?

Because it was the one – that went flying in the air – ripping its self- off the ground with the delivery off my arm that got me – Wilson's wicket today.

Obviously.

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TADAAAAAA!!

How was That Guysssssssss?? I hope you all enjoyed reading through the Match details along the other developments in the background too. I really enjoyed writing it...(winks)😉😉😉

Next Update : Thursday night

Until Then – Please take care and Stay Indoors and Safe guys!!!! 🙏🙏🙏🙏

Thanks Guys for all the Support and your Precious Time to my Work!

Much Love

Always

❤

Prachi

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