Take 32.1 - Leap of Faith 2.0

3 years ago

mysticaltales11111

@mysticltales111

Hellooooo Guysssssssss....

So yes - here I am with the next update for HW3.o this week - 

Word Count -Long in length -9.7K 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🤗❤🙏

Will be Eager to know your feedback on the Same!

‍💻

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

I shall now let you all dive in without Further Delay.

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Disclaimer:

This Story/ Written Series is a work of Fiction.All characters are fictitious.Any resemblance to a person living or dead is purely coincidental. The depiction off fictitious characters through their cross - cultural backgrounds is also a work of pure fiction. I respect all faiths, cultures, communities with its rich diversities, equally.I mean no offence or hurt to anyone's sentiments through my work in any way whatsoever.

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Take 32.1 - Leap of Faith 2.0

The Next Day

11th September, 2019

Early in the morning - 6:00 AM

At the Air BNB Appt

Khushi's POV

I feel my eyes flutter open on their own accord and out of usual habbit - I automatically snuggle closer into Arnav's warm/snug arms around my waist. We always sleep snuggled into one another for the initial part of our sleep - the first couple of hours - whenever we are together.That hasn't changed. And I am pretty sure that it never will as well.Given that we both are just massively addicted to one another - in the ways we are.

I reach out slowly with my one free hand to check up on the time on my phone - so as to not move much/wake up Arnav from his peaceful slumber.

I put the phone back in it's position on the side table once I'v seen the time look back at me in the face and I just close my eyes for a second - snuggling closer and back into Arnav's frame as he sleeps - hugging/spooning me from behind in his arms. I take the moment to just bask in the peace of his powerful loving vibe as he tightens his hold around my waist lovingly now - still cocooned within the shells of his deep sleep. I absolutely love it when he holds me this way - uber close - even in his sleep.It's so freaking intimate+ peaceful.

Hmmm.

So.

It's 6:00 AM.

We only slept at around 3:30 am anyway - and for a second - I am surprised as to how my eyes fluttered open in the first place given that I was so exhausted by the time sleep took over. I mean - you all know the reference already - right? It had been such a thrilling day in the final match last night with the various see-saws of gaming emotions and then ofcourse - once Arnav hit the winning runs - I could only sit back in my seat and cry out buckets in happy relief as Brian, Jack, M and S watched on and mirrored my happiness sans the fountain of vulnerable tears.

But I couldn't help it - you all. I couldn't not cry in glee in that very moment of time.I was/am so freaking proud off Arnav for handling the pressure the way he did and then calmly strategizing his way through - towards the Win! Infact - even though everyone around me expected me to somber up and pause on the fountain of my happy tears - they only continued to fall as we watched the Post Match presentation. Not only was Arnav - his usual candid warm self in the interview with the presenters, he was also awarded the Man of the match in the final + he also finished the Asia Cup tournament as the lead wicket taker as well.

So - how could I not be the emotional gooey mess that I was for him?? Also, guys - know what? Akash was pretty much sailing in the same boat as me too - the only difference that he kept his happy tears in check on and off and I just let mine flow. (We could obviously spot the family box moments being blown up on screen - whilst Arnav's interview/awards were presented to him)

On that note - guys - only fair that I also give a little brief context in here as to everything after the Game. So obviously - Arnav and me got on text the very second he reached the dressing room and once again - as expected - he already had sensed the emotional state I would be in at my end. And during those texts - he very lovingly convinced me to join in the Afterparty at India's team hotel on the context that he didn't have it in his heart to celebrate the victory tonight - if I wasn't around with him. To be honest - he asked me in such a way that I just couldn't say No . Akash helped with getting us all in last minute - obviously and even though I did remind Arnav that we gotta be on pretend mode in the very public/media loaded party - he was beyond just thrilled at just being able to spot me watching him from across just like I was beyond just thrilled to be able to be there - witnessing him celebrate the glorious moment with his team-mates.

Also yes - during the very buzzing afterparty - Akash and Payal did manage to sneak in moments to introduce us all to Maahi and Sachi as well and we all enjoyed catching up with them too. They were very polite and friendly as well and specially given that I 'd heard so much about them from Arnav prior - I was kind off glad that I did get to meet them in person - finally. ( On that note - I do have to admit a secret in here guys - I was beyond just relieved that Roohi - Arnav's ex - Maahi's sister - didn't accompany Maahi to watch this final game. I mean - you all know me right? I get insanely possessive/territorial about Arnav in my head at times - and especially with all that is happening around in my head/heart anyway at the moment - I just felt like I wasn't in the position to see Roohi buzzing around Arnav even in a normal context and have my head go into imagining them in their prior intimate moments. I haven't yet admitted the very same to Arnav - though. I mean I know - he's all mine and everything - and that way I am all secured. There'd be no doubt to that at all like ever in my heart/soul.This bit is just a part off- my silly- envious bits.That's all.)

Anyways so back to the context - so yes - the afterparty was great and Arnav and me were on text a lot throughout being our cheeky selves with one another.And around - 2:00 am - Brian, Jack, S, M finally suggested that we all take leave and head back to the apartment and Arnav reluctantly gave in to my wish to head back then. About 30 minutes later - he somehow managed to sneak out of the Afterparty and make his way to our apartment. I opened the door to let him in at around 2:45 am then and given that Maya/Jack and Brian/Sarah had anyway retired for the night in their rooms - Arnav obviously hauled me up in his arms and carried me straight to the room we'v been sharing in the apartment - and well then - we just made wild love to one another like we usually do - in between our hushed talks of me wishing him congratulations over and over in between and reliving my emotions from the stadium while I was watching him play - until sleep took over our exhausted selves.

Hmm.

Now that I think off it - I think in my heart I know the reason why my eyes fluttered open on their own accord right now. For now that the gaming excitement/happy emotions for Arnav professionally seem to have reached its shore to some extent - I do feel the vibe of the last minute jitters return with regards to my upcoming talk with Raahil and Noor in hours from now.

Guys.

To be honest - I have prepped myself for this mentally in the last couple of days. Oh yes - I have. I have channelised all my love for Mum into giving me the strength to do so.But now that the moment is probably just hours away - I do feel vulnerable within and I find my head going towards the thoughts of the consequences yet again.

My worry for Arnav - also returns. I mean - how could it not? You all saw him play last night didn't you??? He's at the freaking peak of his roaring career right now + the Indian Media's specially gone beserk after his performance yesterday hailing him as one of India's best cricketing all-rounders of all time etc etc.Just how do I not worry for him then?? My minds also having a hard time digesting the bit that - how could he even for a second suggest to me in an unfaltering breath - that he'd leave cricket - right very now - if I didn't quit worrying for him??????

Yes - I know he loves me way too deep - but still - he surely knows that I feel the freaking same too...right?????????

I take deep breathes - feeling myself get shackled in a familiar web of worry.

Guess - I need some coffee! The only thing that will just help me realign everything within my head again?

I slowly get Arnav's hands off me and I am glad that - the movement doesn't wake him up and once I put the pillow in my position - I just reach out to put-on one-off Arnav's tee that I always wear for my nights and walk to the washroom to quickly freshen up.

A couple of minutes later - as I walk out - I pause by the bedside to just lovingly gaze at the sight of Arnav sleeping in his slumber - before I finally head out to the electric kettle/instant coffee/tea resources in my room and make myself some piping hot coffee.

Once I am done with that - I just carry the hot cup in my hand and walk back to take my seat next to Arnav on the bedside and given that he's turned straight on his back in his sleep now - I find my free hand reach out to touch his forhead lovingly on its own accord as it also begins to brush his hair lovingly as he sleeps.

My eyes well up with vulnerable emotions.

My Baby.

My Arnav.

I love you so freaking much. I pray to Christ that you do not have to face the consequences of my reality - ever! I pray to Christ - that I am able to do everything that I can to help my parents too + keep this undercover as always from the world at large.

I lean forward to just kiss his cheek lovingly for a second - before I straighten up and resume sipping my coffee - as thoughts about the plan of how I am going to bring this up with Noor - return!

Godammit.

I have been through this so many times in my head and heart in the last couple of days and yet there are times - I just feel like I am thinking this through for the very first time. The CrossRoad has begun to feel familiar but yet it also feels - scary.

What if - Noor and Raahil - don't believe me?What if they want - proofs??

What if - they react negatively towards the onset off my existence?

What if - they change their mind to help Abbu heal on this given the sensitivity of my truth??

What if - they just ask me to leave??

What if - all of this - the confrontation with them just goes - downhill??

I wipe the vulnerable trail of tears off my right cheek now as I continue to gaze at Arnav's sleeping frame - whilst sipping on my coffee.

I take strength from him/his empowering support/words as always and take deep breathes to just compose myself through. But even in the moment of vulnerability right now - I know one thing for sure - that I gotta do this Alone. I gotta meet Noor/Raahil in person - alone.

I cannot allow Brian, Jack, Maya, Sarah or even Arnav to be around me/with me in that moment - because I absolutely have no clue as to how this will turn out right? How can I risk any of them - facing the brunt - that could probably be meant - Just for me??????????????

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Arnav's POV

I open my eyes and I find myself groaning in disappointment as I discover that I was hugging the Pillow my Fiore had been sleeping on and not her.

Why is she not in bed next to me right now??? When did she even wake up? We'v only slept a couple of hours maybe. Yeah I am sure of that without even seeing the time. My sleep cycle - alerts the very same to me - subconsciously.

I reach out to check the time on my phone.

It's 6:25AM.

I straighten up in bed - rubbing my eyes - and just as I am about to call out for Khushi to check if she's in the washroom - I spot her figure - dressed in one of my tees- upfront - as she's leaning against the wall - with her back to me/our bed - gazing at just the closed blinds on the window in the room. (She's surely not opened them to gaze out the streaks of the rising sun - so as to not disturb my slumber.)I also spot her keep the cup that was in her hand - on the ledge upfront. She's probably sipped on her Coffee.Already.

Oh Damm.

Now that sleep moves aside to it's shore a little - I feel my heart go out to her as the reason about - why she could be up this early crosses my heart. I can sense it all.Obviously.

Today is a big day for her.

Big.Big.Day.

It's only natural for her to be lost in deep thought- right now.But I also think she still needs to get some more sleep.Need to get her back to sleeping in my arms - as soon as possible. But first - I gotta be with her in her moment.

I get up from my spot slowly now and put on my tracks and walk over to her from behind and lace my arms around her waist - pulling her into a warm hug , dropping a kiss on her shoulder as I whisper in her ears lovingly - " hey...you..baby..had the morning cup of coffee without me already??"

Khushi just leans back into my arms and tightens her hands around my hands and doesn't look back at me as she whispers softly - "ahaan...just finished it baby.."

I kiss her shoulder again and then adjust my head in the crook of her neck as I ask - " why didn't you wake me up fiore? How long have you been up?"

She whispers softly just hugging my hands all tight again - " oh baby...I didn't want to disturb you..obviously...you are the one who had the crazy physically gruelling day yesterday...remember??know what Arnav? I still can't get over the game last night.."

I kiss her ear next - holding her tighter in my arms possessively - "really? but I know baby..thats just a part of it...I know...you are surely consumed in some other thoughts...right now..."

She chuckles a little now as she brushes my arm and whispers - " ahaan? and like always...you'v sensed it haven't you??"

Oh Yes.

Baby.

I admit softly - " yup...I sense everything with it comes to You.I take great pride in the bit that my six sense work like magic - when it comes to You - Fiore...you know that don't you??"

Guys.

And because my six senses work so very well when it comes to her - I also know that she's not looking back at me right now/turning to face me - because she's probably got her eyes all welled up in vulnerability. She won't ever want me to see her cry - first thing in the morning. She knows her tears make me vulnerable.

She chuckles again softly and takes my one hand up to kiss it softly and she whispers leaning back snug in my arms - " but what if I say..that this time around...you probably sensed it off...I mean...right now...a part of me was just thinking...that I am so glad...Roohi didn't accompany Maahi on this little trip here to witness the final...I mean..or else...who knew...I'd be going around the afterparty dunking drinks on her outfits. Accidentally ofcourse..,"she finishes with another soft chuckle and asks - " just checking again - this is just my usual territorial streak when it comes to you..hounding my heart for a bit..baby...you don't mind it...do you?? I am obviously secured and everything...but I just felt like..i didn't need my crazy imaginations off imagining you with her..riling me up..last night...so...yes...there I go..confessing it to you..now..."

How could I not bite my smile at that???? On Reflex. I admit softly kissing her ear again - " ahaan...I love the sound of that Fiore...I'd be crazy to mind...I super love your territorial streak for me - Immense. Makes me wana - Waltz - Imaginarily in my head everytime..."

She chuckles a little - " ahaan? really? everytime??"

I admit - " every single..time..."

She snuggles into my arms closer - " good...that's super good...baby.."

But.

Once again - because I know her through and through - I know - she using this as a cover up - momentarily.

Okay.

That's it.

I need to make her look at me.

I begin to turn her around and she just pauses on doing so staying put in my arms with her back to me and whispers - " don't..baby...Arnav...please...don't turn me around...right now...please...let me be..this way..."

Oh Boy.

I pause and don't push her momentarily and just hug her tighter from behind and lean my head from the right side to see her face but she turns her head sideways a little - her curtain of losse open hair - blocking my view of her face as I feel her one hand leave my arm.She's probably wiping her tears away.

I kiss her head - " you don't want me to see you cry right now?? baby? I know that's what it's about..you are nervous and feeling all vulnerable/scared given that hours are nearing for you to meet Noor??and that is only natural fiore...its normal to feel these last minute jitters..totally...talk to me??please?"

She sighs after taking a deep breathe and admits - " I know...its normal..and I will talk you about it all....just hold me this way for another couple of minutes..more..baby...then..i will..."

I brush her hair aside and kiss her ear softly again - " okay.....alright...take the minutes...you need...I am here...baby...for you..right very now...just like I will be with you..through then in hours from now too..."

Ofcourse - it's a given that I am going with her to Abu Dabhi along with M, S, Brian and Jack! Who knows how Noor/Raahil will actually end up reacting to the truth? I'd be dammed - if I let My Fiore - go through this - all alone.

Khushi whispers now softly - "no...you won't...baby...I mean...no in it's figurative sense of reality...but yes...In its emotional sense......I was going to talk to you about this...as well....that yes...you will be there with me in my heart like you always are...but in reality...no...I don't want you/M/S/Brian/Jack...either of you to join me around on this...I gotta do this alone...I will talk to Noor/Raahil...alone...I am going to Abu Dabhi alone...this afternoon..."

WAIT.

WHAT?

I FREEZE IN MY FRAME MOMENTARILY.

IS SHE CRAZY?

WHAT IS SHE ASKING OF ME? RIGHT NOW?????

I AM FREAKING SHOCKED.SHELL SHOCKED AND SURPRISED.

My Insides connect the dots though. And I know just like that - this is about me being an Indian Cricketing Figure walking into the Hotel - where the Pakistan Cricket Team is still staying?

My hearts aching. It is. Is she always going to do this to me?? Is she never going to let me be with her on vulnerable moments like these just because I do what I do? Just like she talked me out of coming to Lahore back then? Just like she talked me out of going to the stadium for Pak vs Bang semi's?

My Heart sinks.Further. Why? Because in this momentarily silence in between of us right now - I just know that the answer to the very question in my mind is - Yes.

I hate this. Downright freaking Hate this.

I am sure she can also sense the reason for my stunned frozen silence - right now.She can sense through me - through and through - too - right?

Khushi laces her right hand through my right hand tight now hugging my hands on her waist right now because yes no matter how shaken I am within right now - I can't seem to let her go out of my arms right now. I need to feel her close - nonetheless. She asks now softly - " won't you say anything..baby?? please don't be silent..this way...you know...I can't take it...your silence...look...I know...you hate that I am asking this off you...Arnav..right now...but..please..baby...you gotta understand.."

I admit distraught sure that she could sense the ache in my voice - " I don't understand...Khushi...yes...I don't...I freaking hate this...you know I do...it aches me freaking immense..that you'v just freaking decided in your head/heart that you are never going to allow me to be there with you...in any of your vulnerable moments...can you even for a second..phanthom..how sick that makes me feel? that I am not there in its actual sense to hold your hand...on moments..that are so emotionally significant...I know...you want to protect me...I do know..where you are coming from...but I gotta be honest to you about what I am feeling..still right? I hate that you do this to me...every single time..dammit...I freaking ha..te i..t...wh..y...?ju..st...wh..y...do...u...ha..ve..to...do this..to me..damm..i..t..every...single...time,"and I pause as I feel myself choke on my words and the vulnerable aching vibe of our deep love for one another and our collective ache - cosnumed the air. ( I mentioned - collective ache - given that she knows I wana be there for her but she wont let me be and I also know that it's aching her to ask this off me too).

I also know she's going to turn around in my arms now - pretty much herself.

She does now and cups my face lovingly as our emotional gaze locks with one anothers and she whispers caressing my cheek her very own eyes welled up just like mine were too - " I am sorry...baby...please? sorry..so so so...sorry...forgive me..please? its aching me immense to ask you off this too...but please...hear me out...this is not just about protecting you...yes this is partly about that too...Arnav..i won't lie or cover up about that...but...this is also about the bit...that I just feel like I gotta tackle this upfront and alone....not only because I have no idea how they will react to this...but also because...to be fair enough to them..they are completely oblivious to the truth right? they have no clue about the twisted equations...just feels fair..that...I given them complete privacy...first...I mean...to be honest..Arnav..just think off this from their view point once..please?and I am sure..you will understand..what I mean...and why??I just feel like I owe them the privacy..baby...,"and she continues to keep her emotional gaze locked with mine as she caresses my cheeks - standing put and close in my arms.

She means the latter bit.

I know she does.

Sincerely.

I can see that in her honest vulnerable gaze in front off me.And to be honest - yes - if I keep my overwhelming emotions of the heart aside - to my mind - I can see the point she is trying to make.

I stay silent though - as my hand now begins to caress her cheek - as I keep my emotional gaze locked with hers.

She kisses my hand lovingly now taking it in her's - " say..something..please??"

I sigh now as I brush her other cheek snug with my knuckles confessing the bit that's just come to my mind- " mid point...Fiore..we make our own bridges on contexts we don't necessarily agree on instantly..remember? plus given that I am doing my best to understand where you are coming from...you gotta walk along to a mid - point too then....alright..if you don't want me/ or either of us to come to their hotel with you...in order to give them the privacy in their space ....fine...but then...don't stop us from being in Abu Dabhi at the least? Look...I am not backing from this alright...I am most surely going to be in close vicinity nonetheless...who knows how they are going to react baby? What if...the whole thing..doesn't go smooth like we are hoping too...then?? how can I leave you all alone? I need to be freaking within arms distance at the least..so that..god forbid..just in case...I can be there with you in a jiffy...if you need me too...after?? Please? you gotta agree to this Fiore..."

Khushi smiles a little now through her vulnerability as she nods instantly- "and how can I not agree to this..given that Mi Amore..always finds the perfect mid way points - to point in my face..haan??alright baby...you be in Abu Dabhi...in close vicinity...surely...alright?? and of course it's a given that I will reach out to you and all if need be...where else will I go...Arnav? Where else will I g..o..,"and I just hug her hard into my arms at that now - on reflex.

She hugs me hard - back too as she whsipers - " I also think I really need to take this on alone...for myself...within...as in...some leaps...you just gotta leap in ..first...your very self...right..baby?? I don't know the consequence of this yet..but what I do know..given..that I am heading into this..anyway...is that..perhaps... facing the truth in front of them in some way..is going to set me free from an inner shackle.. yet again..the bit that I had just never wanted to face..until now...but now...I have to..."

I hold into her harder at that in an intense silence. Yeah, my hearts still aching immense at the mere thought that she'd be doing this all alone for herself - in its literal sense - but then again - in some parts of my mind - I know what she means.

I kiss her head as I say now prioritizing her well being in the moment - " yeah...I know...what you mean...baby...but look...fiore...listen to me now...what I also know is that...you need to sleep too ...fiore...baby...you'v only slept a couple of hours...how about this...surrender/ talk out all your worries to me..like you always do..as I hold you close in my arms..and then try to catch up on the much needed rest after?? Some more hours of sleep will do you wonders...trust me..."

Khushi kisses me on my heart - "sounds perfect...Arnav...will you hold me tight and close..whilst I sleep after? I mean...once sleep comes..after I have talked to you about my last minute jitters?? And if possible...don't let go...until...I wake up...baby..."

I take a deep breathe at that and pull her up in my arms and cup her face and look deep into her eyes as I promise sincerely - " ofcourse...fiore...I'd do that...now and always...you know that don't you??"

She nods - emotionally as our gaze holds one another's in a potent moment of emotional bonding - yet again.

I pick her up in my arms almost instantly and carry her to bed now.

Yeah.

I'd be dammed - if I didn't hold her as snug and close from the very get go - as I got her to talk out her last-minute nerves to me.

It wasn't just because - I knew - it was the bit - she needed in the moment.

It was also because - I needed the same - too.

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Hours Later

1:30PM in the AfterNoon

Abu Dabhi

At the Hotel - Noor/Raahil/Rehaan + Rest of the Pakistan Team is Staying

In Noor's Room

Noor walks out the washroom smiling to herself. It had been a lovely day already. They'd all returned to join the rest of the players+ supporting unit team back at the hotel in Abu Dabhi at around 11 am this morning. And ever since then - she had spotted Raahil catch up with everyone in the unit in a totally refreshed state of mind.These couple of days out and away in Oman - had helped him rejuvenate/recoupe and put the loss behind in his gaming experience. Also, the fact that this morning while they were en-route to Abu Dabhi, the fact that she had heard Raahil say to all (her, Rehaan,Azlaan, Azhar, and Ayaan) that he was going to look back at the tournament as a learning curve - open heartedly - and focus on moving on positively to the next gaming phase all geared up - had only relieved her head and heart both. She loved Raahil deep.Right? How could she not be all smiles - given that she could finally spot him - back to his usual normal self.

Right then - there is a knock on her door and she smiles to herself - walking up to open it. She knew it would be Raahil. Rightly so. She grins at him , letting him in as he asks - " Azlaan bhaijaan+ Azhar, Ayaan...left for shopping as planned..already or what Noor??"

Noor nods. Given that they were all slated to head back to Lahore tomorrow - she had assigned the duties to her brothers - to shop a little for everyone back at home and she says now grinning, closing the door shut - " yes...they'v left as planned...Raahil...Abbu's probably just resting in a little after lunch...right???"

Raahil grins and walks up to take his seat on the sofa - " yes...Noor...I insisted he catch up on a power nap..given that he never usually rests during the day...I mean..we head back tomorrow and things will return to the working grind for him...you know sometimes...I just feel he should travel to visit us in the games often..will give him some break for the usual...right? I can clearly see..how these couple of days off in Oman have done him good.."

Noor grins at that lovingly taking her seat next to him as she says clutching his hand - " just like I can see...it's done you good too...Raahil..."

Raahil smiles and nods and they exchange a loving sidehug at that and he asks next as Noor's phone beeps - " is it her? Khushi? Has she reached??"

Noor nods looking into her phone - " yes..it is her..Raahil..she just DMed on Insta that she is stepping into the elevator..she is on her way up to my room...,"and she keeps her phone on the table in the center and says - " well...yes...I think she is going to be surprised to see you here though..."

Raahil smiles at that.The very second - Noor had told him the context of this meet up with Khushi - he had been intrigued by her work idea.He'd instantly suggested to Noor that he'd like to be a part of the meet - because he was genuinely intrigued to know more about Khushi's research in progress/work with the sports daily in London aiming at highlighting the tales from the cricketing units around the world eventually in a fun/quirky/animated way - before they could connect her with anyone in their countries domestic/national supporting units for further talk/discussions. He says now nodding - " well..yes...to that Noor...I am sure my presence will surprise her..but her idea's caught my intrigue...to be honest...I am quite excited to hear more on the same.."

Noor nods excited too - " I know..right?? I am quite intrigued by it too...Raahil..."

It is right very then - they both hear a knock on Noor's door and Noor says instantly - " that will be her...I'll get her in...then??"

Raahil nods and Noor heads to the door. The very second she opens it - she sees Khushi standing there upfront with a nervous smile up her lips as she says softly - " hello..Noor..."

Noor greets Khushi warmly - " hello...Khushi..come on in..please? driving down from Dubai was comfortable..i hope??"

She sees Khushi nod warmly at that as she gets in and answers - " yes...Noor...it was quite comfortable and smooth,"and as Khushi pauses at that and Noor spots Khushi shoot her another nervous smile and she observes on Khushi's frame beginning to fidget nervously with her handbag's strap on her shoulder, she asks warmly- " Khushi...you okay?? You seem so nervous??"

Ofcourse Khushi was nervous. She was a bundle of nervy jitters.Only she knew - how her legs were shaking in nervousness - as she walked her way to Noor's room right now.Apparently in those minutes she had figured...it's probably the walk towards the diving point ..that is the most...nerve wrecking one to walk????? It had taken her inner strength it all as she closed her eyes remembering - her loved one's faces - taking the continued power from it.She had told herself over and over as she walked her way into the Hotel - that yes - she could do this. She could dive in and resurface up with the Truth in front of Noor for Real. She'd also reminded herself that Arnav+M+S+Jack and Brian - were nearby too.They were going to be spending the time strolling/roaming around the adjoining mall - joint with the Hotel - in wait for her. She covers up her nervous ordeal now as she answers Noor - " really? am I coming across as nervous??"

Noor nods observing Khushi's furrowed up forhead lines+ her constant fidgeting with her handbag's handle - " yes...very..nervous...I wonder why..though?? is it because you wonder what we may think of your work idea..Khushi??,"and she adds on warmly with the aim to make Khushi feel at ease , gesturing her to walk in along with her - "then please know..that you have nothing to worry about at all...for...we..as in not just me..but Raahil is also extremely intrigued by it..so much so..that he can't wait to hear more on the same...see...for yourself...he's right here...he's joining us for this conversation..."

Khushi was walking into the room besides Noor but just as she hears that from Noor and also spots Raahil upfront as he gets up from his seat on the sofa and turns around to shoot her a warm welcome smile - her feet freeze in their walk - momentarily.Why? Because she was caught by surprise - obviously. She hadn't expected Raahil to be waiting up her alongside Noor - from the very get go. In her head - she'd thought that she'd be taking this up with Noor first and then maybe take it further to Raahil and now to find - Raahil here - already - had thrown her off guard momentarily.She also feels her phone beep in her pocket and she takes it out with nervous shaking hands - gesturing to Noor/Raahil that she had to attend to this.First.

It was a text from Arnav.

Arnav : Fiore...baby...you'v reached? Are you with Noor now? you okay? You can do this...my love...you can...

Khushi replies with shaking, nervous, fumbling rhythm of her hands on the screen.

Khushi : yes baby..i am here...in Noor's room now...I am shit freaking nervous now...because Raahil is here..already...

Her phone beeps instantly.

Arnav : whattttttttt????? He's there already??? Okay..wait..up...don't let this make you more nervous..maybe tell yourself...this saves you from comfronting the same vulnerability around twice..? I mean..if it were just Noor first...then you'd just have to revisit the whoel bit with Raahil again right? so maybe..fate planned this up this way..so that it would be like once and for all?

The very second Khush reads that she feels her nervousness ease out a little and she takes deep breathes.

Khushi : Yes..baby...you are right..maybe? okay...I am doing this...now...ill text you after - k?

Arnav : ill be waiting...fiore...

And all this while - as Khushi had paused onto get onto this little chat - Raahil had been exchanging a puzzled smile with Noor upfront as he most surely was able to spot Khushi - freezing in her steps - in sheer surprise.Prior Yes. But what was adding to his puzzlement right now - just like it was adding up to Noor's was the bit that he could clearly catch on Khushi's nervous ordeal too as she typed into her phone.

Both Raahil and Noor - couldn't help but collectively exchange puzzled gestres -wondering what was up with Khushi in the moment. They'd never spotted her this anxious and nervous in their collective presence before. She'd been in a comfortable zone the other day at the jewellry boutique too - right??

Khushi finally puts her phone back in her bag now - putting it on silent mode - and she looks up at Noor and then looks at Raahil and adds apologetically - " I am so sorry for this..i had a text to attend too...,"and she goes onto nod at Raahil politely finally greeting him - " hello...Raahil...I am just surprised I guess...to be honest...I didn't anticipate spotting you here....actually..,"

Raahil smiles warmly at that - " yeah...I figured...we were just discussing that before you arrived Khushi...but what can I say...your work idea is Intriguing to my mind..that I can't wait to know more..."

Noor smiles at that as she gestures Khushi to take the seat on the sofa next to her as she takes her seat and Raahil goes onto sit on the opposite sofa- " exactly...my thought...as well...oh come on...now Khushi..don't be this nervous..now you already know..we are interested by the very sound off it...so come on...tell us ..more...but wait? Will you have something to drink first? Tea? Coffe? Some water maybe??"

Khushi smiles at that a little on reflex as she finally takes her seat next to Noor and answers - " just some water would be good..Noor...thanks..,"and as she sees Noor walk up to help her with a fresh mineral bottle and a glass - she thinks to herself. Maybe - just talking about the work idea upfront would help her feel a little easier and settled into the zone? And so as she finished drinking up a glass - she says warmly to both Noor and Raahil - " and trust me guys...I am thrilled to know that...you both like the sound of my idea..already...um...so...ill just begin with this...so...yup..it's like I do begin to start the animated volumes with focus on England cricket first...but yes...eventually I want to broaden my horizon to world cricket...the theme of my animated series based on cricket would be...aiding the yards, chasing the yards, living the yards, and after the yards....,"and just like that she goes on to give a brief context+ highlights of it all to Noor and Raahil, and as to how she will be extending the same to football as well.

Noor and Raahil nod intrigued and for the next ten minutes - they listen on with keen interest and enthusiasm. They were both liking what they were hearing, and as Khushi talked and explained about her work idea - they could each sense that she was quite passionate about her ambitions in animation + cricket. They were both also momentarily glad that the conversation with regards to the flow of her working idea - had seemed to put Khushi at ease.

Once Khushi is done summing it all up she finishes with the bit - " so..yup...here it is...now you both what the whole bit is about..."

Noor grins and adds now excited as she shifts in her seat to face Khushi - " brilliant...Khushi..this is really brilliant..."

Raahil chips in instantly - " you took my word away..Noor..for yes..that was exactly what I was about to say as well..know what Khushi? I'd actually be glad to connect you further into our supporting units/for your research on tales and moments of behind the scenes on Pakistan cricket as and when...you feel like that yes..this is the time you wana write beyond England cricket...in fact given that you did say that you got into an exclusive contract with your firm already on the publishing giveb that they are helping you get the copyrights...I think its too late for me to even suggest..that...I'd actually love for you to develop something on these lines for just us...locally.through our digital media/magazines...as well...you know back in Pakistan..but then...now I guess..it would be a conflict of interest..with your current working contract..right??"

Khushi nods at that sincerely as she answers - " yes...for now..it surely would be a conflict of interest Raahil...my apologies...but yes...I could surely weave tales around/from Pakistan dressing room's..nontheless...whilst I continue to publish under the daily I am contracted with...like I told you..they are interested in me zoning out towards world cricket eventually..as well...its just I gotta begin locally...and then take the next step further..bit by bit...,"and she pauses at that as Noor begins to second Raahil's prior thoughts as well - " oh we understand for sure...Khushi...but its such a bummer we gotta know this later..but don't worry..we will help you connect further as and when you need...plus...this is just us assuring you..that your work idea/project is truly safe with us..we won't talk about this out loud..to any one..until you get published...we..promise...you...okay??"

Khushi nods -smiling politely at that.Talking about work had helped her settle in to the moment and she says now to Noor and Raahil - " thank you so very much for that..to you both...Noor and Raahil...to be honest..i am pretty stoked to know your collective feedback on this...for real.."

They all share a warm smile at that and Raahil asks now as a sudden thought comes to his mind - "you really are quite passionate about cricket+ animation...aren't you Khushi??but if you don't mind...I'd like to ask you a question..."

Khushi nods sincerely - " yes..please...what is it??"

And Raahil asks inquisitive - " have you always been such a big fan of cricket? I mean..its clear that your idea is so strongly rooted in cricket because the subject is so close to your heart perhaps...so has it always been out of interest in the game/or is there a personal connect that you feel in here too...I mean..did you ever play cricket yourself..growing up?? And gave up on it eventually or something??there's surely got to be some personal connect that you feel with the game...am I right? Khushi?"

Noor smiles at Raahil across - " that's an interesting observation...Raahil..,"and she turns to Khushi to ask - " go on Khushi..answer us..."

Khushi chuckles at that - almost sadly - within as her body reacts nervously by making her palms cross one another nervously as she stares at the glass of water - upfront. Strange - how the dynamic of the conversation had been stirred to the exact bit she had come here to talk about - by Raahil itself.Or maybe - it was Fate at work in here - pulling the strings??? She didn't know. But all she knew - that the moment was now here. She was just minutes away from diving into the Leap of Faith - that had the power to change - a lot personally.

Raahil and Noor wait for Khushi to answer that and for a second they both exchange puzzled glances yet again as they both thought that they'd spotted Khushi fidget with her folded into one another palms - nervously - yet again. The nervousness from before was clearly back to engulf her frame.

But before Noor could ask Khushi again as to why she was back to her nervous self - they hear her say softly - " well...you right about...that...Raahil...cricket is so close to my heart..because there surely..is a personal connect in here...it's my Mum...she actually works for the England national cricket team..as their head physio...she's been doing the same bit...for years now..."

That catches Raahil's attention momentarily as he asks intrigued yet again - " oh really? wow...Khushi...that's great...I am glad..i caught onto that..then.."

Noor is about to say something next but it is right then she hears Khushi say softly as she takes a deep breathe - " my sincere apologies...to you both...Noor and Raahil...for I kind off used work as a cover up in here...as in to meet you both...when the truth is...I actually wanted to catch up with you two..in order to discuss something else..altogether...I just needed work bits to distract myself prior to settle into the situation..."

That catches Noor and Raahil by instant surprise yet again as Noor asks confused - "huh?? What do you mean?? Khushi???"

Raahil asks next puzzled too - " you mean this was not supposed to be just about what we just talked about??"

Khushi takes a deep breath and dunks down the remainder of water in the glass and she now shakes her head, gathering all her guts - " no...it's not just about that...Raahil...Noor..."

Raahil asks exchanging a puzzled look with Noor yet again - " okay..then what is it??"

Noor chips in inquisitive to know - " Khushi...go on..tell us...don't be so nervous..please...just be normal as you were prior...k?why are you so nervous..??"

Khushi admits now looking straight at Noor and then Raahil as a sad smile curves up her lips - " because...you might just ask me to leave..the very second...you hear this context...actually to be honest...I am just so scared about the two of your's reaction to this...in the first place..."

Noor smiles and rubs Khushi's arm gesturing her to go on - " no..we are not going to ask you to leave..suddenly...Khushi..that would be rude..why would we be rude to you? ever? you saved my life once..remember??"

Khushi closes her eyes for a second and recalls all of her loved one faces and as she vizualises her Mum's face towards the end in her head over and over again - she feels her resolve strengthen within. The time was Now. She opens her eyes to see Raahil and Noor looking at her cluelessly puzzled still and she says now - " okay...so...just to give you the brief precontext...if I hadn't overheard the two of you the other day..at the jewellry boutique...while I was on my way to get my phone back...I wouldn't ever be here in front of you both..addressing this bit...like ever...I never intended this bit to every come up and out...but when I overheard you two...it just triggered a massive tsunami within me..alright? I couldn't like not address this..."

For a second, Raahil pales as he hears that from Khushi for he remembers that his talk with Noor in the cabin had also been about his Abbu and that very vulnerable personal context. Extremely personal context. Noor exchanged a worried look with Raahil now as she understands his paled and stunned silence and asks Khushi on his behalf - " what do you mean? Khushi? What did you overhear??"

Khushi takes a deep breathe and she asnwers now honestly looking straight at Raahil - " you were talking about your Abbu...with Noor...remember?Raahil?,"and she goes on to give the brief highlights of what she had overheard - and as she watches Raahil pale further in his frame and Noor gives her the most stunned and dazed look - Khushi knew that her even bringing this up right now - had shaken them both to the core and right there whilst Khushi is just finishing with narrating everything she had heard - she sees Raahil pale into a cold statue as he stands up from his seat now across as he says assertively - " stop...please...stop....I am sorry...I do not wish to hear further...this is too personal...I am beyond just stumped...that you even overheard something as personal as this...Khushi...I am sorry..but from where I see it...you should have left like any other decent person would..when you overheard the context of our conversation..Khushi...do you realise..what you are doing here right now is way out of line? Yes...I owe it to you for saving Noor's life...and yes..we got into these casual friendly encounters...once/twice...but no...that does not mean...that I feel comfortable to have you bring my personal context in here..to my face this way....no one apart from Noor...in my circle...knows this..anyway...,"and he exchanges a helplessly bewildered look with Noor who was gesturing him to calm down from across and he states brushing his hand through his hair helplessly - "No...Noor...I cannot..calm down..don't ask me..too...I can't talk about this...in front off her...obviously Noor...its not like she's anyone we know personally...don't you understand...Noor...I'v been guarding this secret..dammit..and now I am just mad that I brought this up the other day and had someone overhear it...,"and he gapes at Khushi - frustrated as she just continued to look at him with a sad smile curved up her lips and her eyes welled up. He was beyond just confused - with just about everything going on in here.He also felt like he wanted to ask her to leave.Right very now.

Khushi knew. In her mind and heart - she had anticipated Raahil's outburst - obviously, which was why she was just a tad bit shaken and not completely stumped into oblivion.

Noor looked in between Raahil and Khushi now and as much as she could sense raahil's anger - in the moment - she could also sense a lot of angst coming out of Khushi's frame as she sat frozen in her seat looking at Raahil with welled up eyes as if she were prepped in her head for this. She is just about to react and say something when she hears Raahil say keeping a check on his anger as he folds his hands across his chest - " Leave...Khushi...please..leave...I don't wish to address this context...please leave..before this turns..ugly...you had no right..absolutely no right...to overhear my personal family matter in the first place...you understand that..don't you??"

Khushi nods at that shaken as she whispers - " I know...I understand..that...I had no right to overhear...but...raahil..please..hear me out..give me a second.."

Raahil shakes his head in a Stubborn obstinate - No - feeling to vulnerable in front of someone who was still a stranger in some ways to even address this - " No....not even a nanosecond...Khushi...please? I don't want to be rude..given that I still feel like I owe you for helping Noor the other day...but no...you'v crossed the line...I cannot allow you to cross...you will leave..here...now....right very now.."

Noor gapes at Raahil as she says - " raahil...no...whats wrong with you? calm down will you?? I understand you are edgy but Khushi must have a reason...okay? Can't you sense that..??

Raahil says - " yes I can..but what if I don't want to hear the reason...Noor...don't push me...on this...you know...how sensitive I am when it comes to Abbu...,"and he glares at Khushi again momentarily as he says again - " leave...please? you know where the door is.."

And for a second just as she hears Raahil say that - Khushi feels her insides crumble under the onslaught of cold dismay in Raahil's tone and his angry gaze at her right now.And she fights her tears with great difficulty now as she stands up in her seat and clutches on her handbag's handle nervously fighting back tears. As much as he wanted her to leave now - she also knew she couldn't leave her without putting some sense into her context from their angle and so she closes her eyes and vulnerable tears fall of them as she feels Noor hold onto her arm in support as she says in her defense - " Raahil...please...calm down...Khushi..wait...don't go...Raahil..listen.."

Khushi whispers now wiping a trail of her tears down her cheek - opening her eyes to look at Noor's face as she whispers - " I am sorry to use our brief association for this and to put you in that awkward spot Noor...but my only purpose...for coming here..was to tell you both...that I know her...the one you'v been probably looking out for...or waiting to get some heads up on...the one Raahil's Abbu was with...before he married his Ammi....I know her...all I wanted to say..was that..."

That catches Raahil's attention almost immediately as he takes that in. Shocked reel through his system as he gapes at Khushi as he asks - " wait....what????????????? what did you just say???? You know her????? How?? What?? what is happening? How did you even understand the context?????? How is this even possible????????,"and he gapes at Khushi - unable to comprehend anything as he sighs and asks gulping his dismay/anger down as if to reconfirm what he'd heard - " you know her??????? How????????? How is this possible?????

Noor exchanges a look with Raahil that says - I told you so.She had some solid reason and she instantly holds onto Khushi's arm warmly and says now - " Excuse his prior outburst..please??? Khushi?? And just sit down...lets talk this...tell us..what you want to.."

But Khushi does not take her seat - and she stays statued to her spot standing just like Raahil was standing across - and she looks straight at him as she answers now her voice quivering - " I know...because...it's my Mum that you were refereeing to...in the context of your conversations...Raahil...her name...is Alice Jones..she was the one who was in a relationship with your Abbu...back then...in time....I have proofs...if you wana see...I have some pictures of them..from the past...in my phone as well...I got them along..because I figured...you wouldn't just believe me...perhaps??,"and she pauses to take a deep breathe as she now just lets it all out knowing that there was no way she could go back - "and I am here..to tell you this..today....because...as twisted as it seems...it's still true...your Abbu is the only one...My Mum ever loved...she's been harbouring as much ache in her heart..after their breakup...all these years...all this while...too...and when I overheard everything you both talked about...I just felt..shaken on another level...for in that moment of time...it felt like...I understood...what they both must have been through all this while....in their hearts...you said...that day...your ammi could never be the love of your Abbu's life right? I am here to tell you...that no other man could be the love of my Mum's life too..."

A HEAVY POIGNANT SILENCE ENGULFS THE ROOM.

The very second those words leave Khushi's mouth - Raahil gapes at her stumped and shaken NOW as he asks his very own voice shaking as Noor eyes well up as her hands reach up to cover her mouth in smomentary shock - " what??????????? what did you just say???????????? Khushi??? It's your Mum????she's only loved my Abbu all her life???? She could never love another??"

Khushi shakes her head as vulnerable tears leave her eyes and she imagines her Mum's face in front of her eyes and she holds onto her heart for a second and she quickly dishes out her phone next and shows Raahil an old picture of her Mum with Rehaan and she says softly whilst Rehaan held onto her phone screen gaping at it in sheer shock - "there you go...do you spot the way they are looking at one another in that picture? This was a couple of months before their break up...only obvious by the vibe of emotion in the very frame that they loved each other with all their heart...indeed..."

Raahil couldn't move.He couldn't get himself to move as he gapes at the picture on screen of his much younger Abbu with a gorgeous women in the frame. Noor walks to stand by his side now and overlooks the picture and she finally instructs herself to get out of the shock that she had zoned into jerself as she asks Khushi - " you say...she could never love anyone...else...Khushi?? Your Mum?? What about your dad??"

And Khushi finally clutches on her heart as she looks at Noor and Raahil upfront straight and says now - " yes..she could never..love..another...so much so...that she never really moved on....she's never been with any other man...after....after....your Abbu.....she was never married..let alone..date..anyone..all her life...until now...she's only loved one....only one....,"and she pauses as her heart gets immensely heavy with emotion before letting this last bit out.

That bit from Khushi - shocks and frazzles Noor and Raahil even more and Noor holds onto Raahil's arm shaken as Raahil gapes at Khushi's vulnerable frame now as he asks softly his head working in an overdrive to connect the dots - " she's never been with anyone else?ever? after?never dated?never married? Than what about you? wait? Did she adopt you or something??"

Khushi shakes her head in an emotional No at that as she finally lets it all go - opening the gates to her secret/vulnerability in front of Noor and Raahil - " no...I am not adopted...I am her biological child...and not only her's.....,"and she pauses.

Raahil's eyes widen to the size of cups and saucers at that and so does Noor's as she asks on Raahil's behalf as his jaw drops open in sheer shock - " wait..what????? Khushi...are you implying what you are right now??? are you saying that???,"and Noor pauses waiting for Khushi to complete the unsaid and said that was now hanging in between the air.

Khushi nods now as vumnerable tears continue to leave her eyes - " yes...I am implying exactly what the two of your connecting in your heads...Raahil and Noor...as twisted as it is...Raahil...we do have something in common though...we are bonded..in blood...and DNA...for we are both fathered by the same...man...the only difference being the bit that you are his legitimate child..and I am his illegitimate one...the only difference being the bit...that you lived knowing all your life...he is your father..and I didn't even know until I was 18...that my father was alive out there...Mum always maintained the bit...he had passed...until then...but then one fine day..she did tell me the truth along with her reasons of keeping this a secret...she only got to know she was expecting me...after their break up...after...he was already married for a couple of weeks to your ammi....Raahil...she thought he'd moved on...she never wanted to unsettle his perfect life...but because she didn't have it in her heart to abort me...she chose to have me...and named me Khushi because she knew..that was the name...he'd love for a daughter...I came to Lahore the other day...to Gaddaffi...under fan pretext...so that..atleast...once...I could see him...live..in front of my eyes...just once...to see the one upclose...who also brought me to life....I'v lived all my life after I got to know...just gazing at his pictures online...not even having the answer in my head - if he ever knew about my existence...would he accept it/or even allow me to address him as Dad/Abbu??but after hearing you both the other day - I just felt I had to tell you both the truth at least...how could I not? For Mum's ache? The intention was never/is never to disturb your perfectly settled lives...but I just had to get this out now in the open...it's thr truth...you can have my DNA tested..if you don't beelive me...I just had to do this...for Mum...for my Mum...for her heart just still stands as broken as it was..25 plus years ago...it's still...so..bro..ken...,"and just like that as Alice's face revolves in front of her eyes - Khushi goes onto slump back on the seat emotionally and she buries her head in her hands and - begins to sob - not only because she felt emotionally exhausted but because she also felt like a great weight had been lifted from her shoulders.She'd dived in. She'd done it. She'd taken the Leap of Faith and yet she felt like she just had to cry it all out - before she gathered the guts to look up at the stunned/shocked faces of Noor+ Raahil - again!

And simultaneously - as those very words left Khushi's mouth and Raahil and Noor stood stumped, shocked, rooted to their spots as the truth hammered itself into their ears - they felt as if the ground had ripped itself from underneath their feet and that they were both being sucked into a vaccum of vulnerable emotions.

THEY COULDN'T MOVE.

THEY DIDN'T KNOW HOW TO REACT.

THEY WERE SHELL FREAKING SHOCKED AND SHAKEN SO MUCH SO THAT IT COULD BE RIGHTLY SAID - THAT RAAHIL FELT THE VERY CORE AND CRUX OF HIS HEART SHAKE - AT THE MERE KNOWLEDGE OFF EVERYTHING HE HAD JUST HEARD.

Yup.

THE GROUND HAD JUST RIPPED ITSELF - FROM UNDERNEATH HIS FEET/HIS HEAD/HEART/SOUL - INDEEDDDDD!

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

TADAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!

How was that guys???????????????? Sheer Bombing Dhamaka for Raahil and Noor this time around...right?

Okay! Okay! No shoes at me for just stopping there!!!! I just had to pause there yaaa for the dramatic affect????!!! (Winks) Plus given the bit that the update was already 9.7 k words and the next bit is also emotionally significant and needs to stand out on its own.So I thought why not pause here and let the moment get soaked in on reading experience.

Next Update : Tomorrow 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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