TAKE 40.1 – At the Cusp of Dawn

2 years ago

mysticaltales11111

@mysticltales111

Hellooooo Guysssssssss....

Here I am with the next update 

Word Count – Long in length – 10K 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.

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

** If you are reading this work/story on any other platform other than Wattpad/India Forums, especially TRUYEN4U.net/ NovelHD or any other domain with the TruyenKK etc - then you are very likely to be at a risk of a Malware Attack for these sites are Mirror sites - who are reflecting our work through a malware lens. If you wish to read this Story in its Orignal, Safe, form, please go to Wattpad/ India Forums.**

Please bring it to my Notice by Messaging me on Wattpad, where in my username is - mysticaltales11111 - if you read this Story on any other platform, apart from Wattpad/ India Forums.

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

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.

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

TAKE 40.1 – At the Cusp of Dawn

Next Day – Early Morning – 7:00AM

Khushi's POV

Guys.

You know what's crazy? It's the bit that how two mornings – like probably just twenty four hours apart – can be as vast in its moments – like as contrasting in it's polarisation like North Pole vs South Pole.

Ofcourse I am going to get down into the context of the very statement above in a bit...but before I dive into that...I do wana state...another thing that's crazy though?? It's the bit that last night I actually thought – that I'd be sleeping off into a long slumber until Noon today – with Arnav's arms snug tight around me – when actually I'v just been awake since a little before Dawn.

A little before 5am at my end to be exact!

Why? If you may wonder?

It's because – well – everything that Arnav spoke to me about last night obviously just continued to revolve at the back of my subconscious mind over and over – even in my sleep. His words..every one of them...just like they were the last thoughts in my mind as sleep took over – with Arnav holding me tight and snug – the same thoughts managed to slip their way down to my very subconscious in the bylanes of my sleep – until my eyes fluttered open at 5am on their own accord.For the last thought in my mind – that I pretty much thought was a part of like a dream – kind off lead to a freaking potent discovery/ realistaion within – that I couldn't help but just wake up – suddenly – taking many moments after to just turn around over and stare at the loving face of the love of my life sleeping deep in his slumber – as my consciousness+ subconsciousness went on like a solid inner mind court zone – finally triggering me to cement and realise the one thing that would help me take the leap towards the Reset to the Factory Settings within. The crucial realisation within- that was needed for me to accept with both an open mind and an open heart in order to reach to that minutest root factor – within.

So what was this realisation that struck me????????

It was the bit that – perhaps – I was feeling so miserable – all day yesterday not only because of the reasons that Arnav put in black and white for me – but also because of another very vital personal factor in there that I wasn't even aware that still existed with its roots within deep down because I thought or rather just assumed to myself that I'd dealt with it. But Apparently not.Given the way it got triggered off on like all tangents yesterday also playing a super important role in me feeling like the wreck I was. So it seems that as I was moving forward in Life – I had just been adding soil over the root thinking I might not have to go back to looking the root in its face at all – so I never worked on uprooting the damm thought out of my system – once and for all. For it just felt like everyone around me loved me, understood me, cared for me immense...despite the truth...that I never really realised that it was also important for me to uproot this very root for myself – like just for myself as well. Like in an act of extending total unconditional self-love – action and acceptance towards one's self.

I realise now that I never really worked on – uprooting my very own insecurities/complexes/situation around the tag off my illegitimate birth – within. I realise now that – because I'v always feared the wordly reactions to it/wanting nothing more than to protect with so much intensity – it kind off just simply kept that very own personal insecurity alive in there deep down.

So - As I walked to the washroom deep in thought – many minutes later - I asked myself then - looking straight into the Mirror. That was it True? Was it really true? That I was still the one – who still hadn't come to accept the reality of my birth completely??????????Which is why – the words – 'Child Of Sin' being splashed around everywhere – had the brutal impact they did in my heart and soul???

And it was once again that I realised as my eyes looked back at me with the clear answer - that – the Mirror of your very own eyes can never really lie to you. It will guide you – if you let it.

So yup - I wasn't really surprised when I had my eyes looking back at me with the answer : that Yes. The issue deep within truly is – that I never really uprooted the hope out of my system for good that hoped – Oh I so wish my parents life story was like any other normal child's. That my birth story would have been like any other child's. The fact that I had very own eyes look back at me with the bit - That perhaps – its me whose also been unable to exercise the divine power in accepting the mere context of my existence – its like it clicked so much within. As if I were the software engineer who'd just figured out the right text of coding – in order to fix the final nail in the programme I was designing. And just like that in my gut I knew – that I couldn't aim for a factory reset in there – without dealing with this first.

FOR IT FELT LIKE – HOW COULD I EXPECT ANYONE IN THE WORLD OUT THERE TO ACCEPT THIS AS NORMALLY – IF I HADN'T DONE IT AT A SUBCONSCIOUS DEEP WITHIN – MYSELF!!

YEAH – THE FACT THAT EVERYONE WHO LOVES ME – WAS AN ADDED BLESSING IN THAT CONTEXT WHICH I FELT TOTALLY GREATFUL FOR – ALMOST IMMEDIATELY AS I REALISED THAT EVERYONE OF THEM (WHO LOVES ME)– PROBABLY ACCEPT EVERYTHING ABOUT ME IN THIS CONTEXT AT ALL LEVELS ALREADY!

I JUST HAD TO JOIN THEM ON THAT BOAT – WHOLEHEARTEDLY - FINDING WAYS TO DEAL WITH IT – WITHIN.

And the very second I realised the above bit - just like that – everything in my head went into an overdrive. I walked back into the room – and just sat my Arnav's sleeping side and just by holding his hand and taking courage from his vibe – I decided to think things further and design a go-to path in my head – as to how to begin to deal with it.

And I didn't freaking give myself much time to procrastinate then – for it simply felt like I could postpone this for myself and risk going back to feeling the way I was yesterday – or once again – I could just take bull by its horns – and commit/FOCUS - myself towards tackling this deep rooted issue – in the Now! – for Myself. My conscious mind also helped in making the choice of the latter in a blink for it felt like it had – had enough of those wrecked/lost hours yesterday – feeling the way it was.

I headed straight to the desk in the room and took out some pieces of paper and walking into the adjoining Balcony – and I decided to put things down on pen and paper – honestly. I listed down my insecurities/all those fears I'd been harbouring within on this angle – be it with regards to Abbu, Mum, Arnav, my loved ones – and once I was done with listing all that down – I simply reached out for another paper and began to list down all the bits of my Life that I was still grateful for despite the moment I was in.

And the very second – my hands wrote down the very first point – that I was grateful for Life – in came in another freaking realisation with it – that Dang! Irrespective of the context of my birth – I really was grateful for the blessing of Life.And then as I continued to list down the numerous things I held deep gratitude for in my heart today – like for Mum through stages, my friends, through all the stages, Grandpa, Grams, Arnav, his family which was like mine today+ the entire blessed with love equation with Abbu+ Raahil/Noor – and the fact that irrespective of the world out there creating a outrage of our family situation, everyone was still there with me on this – it added like tons of fuel to the strength of the gratitude I was feeling. And so I kept going – I kept listing down the rest of what I was greatful for – my education, my purpose in life, passion, work, career, love, the fact that I was a confident, independent human...so on...and the...the list of gratitude obviously went onto a number of pages.....

And about thirty-forty minutes later once I was finally done – and as I simply looked at the sheets of paper in front of me – it was obvious for my conscious mind to see that whereas the Insecurities/fears lasted a page – My gratitude list – surely lasted so many more – which only ended up giving me the thought – that I could probably focus on taking care of the insecurities/uprooting it – by consciously just taking steps to accept it for being there first and then just accept the bit that I also do not want them to rule my subconscious anymore – as I wanted to take the conscious decision of helping myself by focusing on the good that was and just being immensely grateful for that! Like Arnav said – it was pointless for me to even hope that I could go back in the past or rewrite things or just keep hoping that they did not happen. It just made more sense to focus on the present – for it felt like – it could hold the potential towards me feeling in control of my future – going forward.

And trust me guys –given the bit that the very second I looked up from my papers– and my eyes came in contact with that streak of Dawn into the sky – it totally felt as if something witin me – the fighter within me had awakened.And so...there I was – At the Cusp of Dawn...this morning...feeling awakened on many deep tangents within... as if the Sun (this morning)was coming out to tell me that I'm just coming back to shine here in this morning version – but technically I was never really gone in the hour of the night. I am never gone. I am always risen in some parts of the world. Its just the way you chose to look and perceive my phenomenon....that makes all the difference...

It was right then that I was/am sure that I am going to freaking go after that reset path in my factory settings. If it takes a courageous chase within into my inner self – than so be it. But – I would seal this chase....eventually. I most surely would.

I am telling you all – all these moments were so freaking deep for me within to feel and experience- that I almost felt like running back in to wake up Arnav and talk to him all about it....but then I didn't...because...well...in my heart I did want him to get the rest after travelling to and fro ..all over and across...yesterday to get to me....

So yup – now you all know what I mean by the bit I began with two mornings just 24 hours apart being so contrasting in its moments right??? I mean – yesterday – I felt all helpless and lost – right?? Today – the mornings just culminating into me feeling like – wanting to take the freaking remote control off my life...back in my hands....I was going to stand tall and face whatever may be up my way – nonetheless – for like Arnav said....yes I couldn't control the consequences on the out – but what I could control is the way how I deal with them...and my frequencies within...

So yes – I'v just spent the last couple of hours since then – just calmly thinking and planning my way through ahead...observing the morning come in around me in all its glory....

Yeah...I still have a long way to go....

I am on the initial brainstorming stages – I guess - within

But perhaps like Arnav says what matters the most is – that I have Begun!

On that note – as I fall deeper in love with Arnav again - I think it would be safe to say that my man is like my very own guardian angel now???? Isn't He????

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

Meanwhile – the Next Day

9:00 AM in Lahore

Khan Mansion – Rehaan's Study

Rehaan watches the worried frown on both Raahil+ Noor's faces as they both look at Abrar wide eyed as they asked – " nai...uncle...no...please...tell us...you just didn't say what you did..."

Abrar shoots Raahil and Noor a worried nod – " you heard me right the..first time...around...beta...Noor...even though the board is sitting officialy to discuss this in a day or two – the internal tide is pretty much in the favour off asking your Abbu...to step down...on his own...for a bit...majority feels...that the public just needs time to digest this more perhaps...right now...and perhaps it would be better for janab to lie low until the fire settles...they think it would be apt to not have you lead the board of the favourite sport in the country....for a while..."

Raahil and Noor – looked at each other worried clutching onto each other's hands. They knew this was highly unfair towards the professional hard work – Abbu had put in for development of Pakistan cricket – both domestic/international – for decades. He was the one who'd conceptualised the plan of executing boot athletic camps in remote villages/areas of Pakistan – giving an opportunity to raw talents to surface. He was the one – who had brought PSL to Life. He was the one – who'd literally been the lead face of Pakistan cricket board for the longest duration – for heavens sake! How could all of that be forgotten overnight??????????????They thought???

Rehaan wasn't too shocked or surprised though. He'd seen it coming. He knew the bit that the boiling buzz in the media in Lahore/in the country surrounding his context – was pretty much the headline still.He had obviously also known that his statement in the media yesterday wouldn't change things in a flash of a second and yet he wanted to take that very stand he did. He had no regrets. And so he says now looking at Noor and Raahil – " I saw this coming kids...I really did. I have no regrets ...why are the two of this shocked?? I am not shocked at all...I knew this was what it would lead too...,"and he looks at Abrar calm and composed as he says – "Abrar...look...what has to happen to me... I will accept...like I mentioned in my statement yesterday...serve the consequences on my plate and I will eat it...but please? will you help me put in a word for Raahil's case to the board at the least? My takented son is at no fault at all here...how can he be held responsible?? Please...you must convince them...to let him retain his position in the squad...please??"

And Raahil gapes at his Abbu shocked and shaken at that as he exclaims – " Abbu....what are you saying?? Are you even listening to yourself...????????????? All of this...just puts me off so much right now...I mean...after years of giving/devoting your life to the nation/sport – if this is how they are aiming to pick you out like a fly....I have full confidence...that anything like this...can happen to just about any of us...so then why??why do you want to put in a support case for me right now??????????let them..have me off...if that's what they want...I don't think...I'd want to play...anyway..given the way...they will be asking you to step down...yourself..."

Rehaan looks at Noor as he gestures her to hold Raahil's hand to calm him down and Noor understands the inference and does the some instantly as Rehaan says – " Noor..beta..make him drink some water...first..please??,"and he looks at Abrar awaiting an answer and he hears Abrar say now – " well....yes..ofcourse...I'v already done the same janab..even before you said it...and the good news is...that everyone's on the same tide at this – that Raahil shall not face the consequences and will be allowed to maintain his position in the squad...."

Raahil roars again in anger – " good news...uncle? How is that a good news??? Or you mean...They are going to allow me to retain my position...on the account that they make sure that my abbu here – faces the very public consequences in this conext...you mean..they don't mind me standing tall in my national jersey...only because...my abbu's already taken the fall/faced the brunt in the background...."

Rehaan sighs at that as he admits feeling a tad bit relieved looking at all – " well...I don't have any problems in taking this brunt...If that's what its going to take to keep you playing for Pakistan..mere bete..."

And he hears Raahil exclaim angrily – " I won't play...I just won't play...Abbu...like I said...we go down..together...we are in this together....right??"

Rehaan sighs – " Abrar, Noor...make him understand...that the only way I can still feel like I am still connected to the sport I love...the sport I served in my nation...will be through you then...going forward...irrespective of what is...the love...I have for our sport...will never...die...mere bete..."

Noor holds onto Raahil's hand and she clutches on it and makes him understand the very same. So does Abrar. As his Abbu's eyes did the talking in the background to get Raahil to see the point he was trying to make. He sighs shaking his head – " Abbu...why?? Why did you have to put it this way?? Tell me something...are you not going to say anything to the board at all? Just bear the brunt??"

And to that Rehaan finally answers with a calm composed smile – " well...who says...I will bear the brunt in the way they want me to Raahil...if I have to bear it..i will bear it in my style...,"And to that he hears Raahil/Noor/Abrar ask in unsion – "what do you mean??"

Rehaan admits now – " they will ask me to step down myself...right? but that is surely something I will not do...because it would be like as if I have accepted in my own eyes that I'v done some crime or something...for Allah knows...in my heart...all iv done is given supreme importance to my father's heart...and I see...no crime in..that....but...perhaps...if they do so collectively from their position...they have every right to sack me..themselves...citing whatever reasons they want...but I will not step down...myself...or resign..myself...Its what I owe to the professional in me...why shall I hang in my papers and sneak out behind like a criminal?how am I going to be able to look at myself then?? Let them sack me if they want – I will walk out with my head held high...for in my heart I know I did the right thing by owning up/putting it in black and white to the media yesterday......"

And at that Noor/Raahil/Abrar just looked at Rehaan shocked yet in momentary awe and would have continued to look for the next couple off minutes – If not – for the frantic knocks at the study door.

That catches everyones attention and Rehaan asks whoever it is to come in and when they all spot a crying Farah enter in behind an agitated Asif – Rehaan asks even before Abrar can ask the reason behind his children's discomfort – " Asif..beta..whats wrong?? Why is farah crying this way?? Is there some more news? Is the media harassing the two of you now??"

Abrar walks up instantly to hug the apple of his eye – Farah as he asks – " Farah...? Why are you crying???this way??" and Noor joins him in from the other side as Raahil walks up to comfort Asif – and they all watch in shock as Asif simply stares at Farah in disbelief as he says – " ask her...Abbu...yes..ask her...let her be the one..to tell you...just like she walked upto me...twenty minutes ago to confess it....upfront...for she knew even though Raahil asked me to stop getting to the bottom of this..i still was at it..so she knew I'd find out sooner or later....i am in disbelief since then...I most surely am...tell them...farah...tell them...tell them the truth..or wait..let me...tell it on your behalf...Abbu/Raahil/noor/Rehaan uncle – guess who leaked the news out to the media????????and is the creator of all this mess????? Its her – Farah...she overheard you/raahil/khushi in the study the other day...and apparently some sense of revenge came over her...because Abbu's been your deputy for ages...she blames...Raahil's talent for the reason why I am still in just the domestic squad...ya allah...yeh kya kar diya...isne...(ya allah..what has she done....just what has she done??)"

And as they all look at Farah in shock – Raahil/Noor instantly get consumed with the feelings of betrayal just like Abrar mirroring the exact look o Asifs face as they gape at Farah and ask – " is this true???? Is this for real???????"

And they hear a crying Farah reply instantly with a nod as she succumbs into the sifa burying her face in her hands – " unfortunately it is...it is true...I didn't know...what came over me...I didn't know this would be the level...it would escalate too...out there in the media....I couldn't...s..le...e..p...las..t..ni..ght....Khushi...;s...broken face from the airport...was haunting me...just like the uproar in the media was...about you..uncle...I didn't know...this was the level...it would escalate too...Rehaan uncle..Raahil...Noor...Abbu..bhaijaan...please....please...just forgive me..."

Abrar stands rooted in shock – statued.

Asif asks looking at his Abbu now – "Abbu...how? Just how will I look at Rehaan uncle In the eye now? or even Raahil? I cant even look at them..."

Abrar sighs now finally observing the stunned silence Rehaan had gone into – " neither can I...beta...well...janab...if I was a part reason why my daughter...betrayed...us all this way...than perhaps...I'd also like to take your help on voicing my stand on this to the board as the time comes – I will not step in as the Head at the PCB..i will stand deputy..or perhaps...I must resign myself???perhaps...my time is done..as well????????"

And at that – Farah feels all of her guilt consume her as she whispers broken – " no...no...Abbu...no...please..."

Asif looks at his beloved sisters in disbelief still as he says shaking his head – " yeh kya kar diya...faru...(just what have you done...)..faru..tell me..faru...did this make you happy? Did you get the happiness you seeked?????????"

Raahil and Noor stand stunned in silence just like Rehaan – just not knowing what to say. Farah was closest to kin. None of them could imagine - that it would have been her.

And just like that as Farah looks back at the look of betrayal shooting out of her Abbu+ Bhaijaan's eyes – she knows – she'd probably have to live with the stabbing pain of guilt within for a long long time and yet she whispers crying looking at Rehaan – " Uncle...please..forgive me...please....please...don't hold Abbu or bhaijaan accountable for this...this..is not their fault at ll...its all mine...all mine...."

And at that Rehaan finally says – " I would never deflect the blame of this to your Abbu...or Asif...faru...oh I surely wouldn't..."

And the fact that Rehaan uncle had still called her Faru – only made Farah cry more as she hears hi say wiping a tear outta the corner of his eye – " I still remember..they day you were born...I took you in my arms..faru...and I told Abrar...Allah ne hume...beti ki naimat di hai...abrar(that allah has blessed us both with a blessing of a daughter) – so yes...it is surely going to take me a while to process this...us all a while...yes you did set me free indirectly...and I probably would have forgiven you if all of this was just linked to me...but I am afraid...I will not be able to process the word forgiveness..yet..until iv seen the consequences coming my children's way....your actions have hurt both my children....Faru...immense....Noor too...our entire family....immense..emotionally ..plus...we still have to reach khushi in baharain in a bit...and given that its early morning there and she'd be sleeping – I still don't know if she is in a better state than she was last night....but.......yes...all I can say right now is that...no one here in our circle... will know from us...that you leaked this out...for the sake of Abrar and Asif...obviously,"and he exchanges a knowing look with Raahil and Noor at that and they just nod back at him confirming the same to him still statued in shock – and as they all observe – Farah break down in guiltful tears – Raahil and Noor – wondered that perhaps – that her biggest punishment was to deal with the after -guilt of the act?????????? As they all collectively just looked at her with the look of betrayal, mistrust and shocked disbelief.

And Farah – understood. She understood the meaning of the words that - just about nothing could be more painful/peircing than the look of your very own blood(father+brother)+ closest to kin(family friends) – be looking at you with the gaze of deep betrayal and mistrust – as if they could just never trust you again.

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

Back to Baharain – 8:00 AM

In the Room

Arnav's eyes flutter open on their own accord through his half-asleep stuper and like always he finds his hands reaching out for Khushi next to him – on reflex. But when his hands felt the space next to him – all empty – his eyes opened completely as he turned around the momentary worry returning for his Fiore? Where was she?? Was she feeling better this morning????

But even before he can call out to her or step out of bed to go in search for her – he is surprised to hear His Fiore's cheerful chirpy tone fall in his hears from upfront as she chuckles – " love it...baby...just so love the sight of you searching for me...in your sleep...."

Arnav looks upfront the very nest second and as he comes face to face with the sight of his Fiore – standing upfront against the wall of the room adjacent to the balcony – just looking back at him – looking like her cheerful self – he asks a side rakish smile taking over his lips on reflex – " how long have you been...watching me...sleep...fiore???"

And he sees Khushi grin back at that as she says – "well....to be honest..baby..i'v been watching you sleep on and off since the break of dawn...or even prior..but...like right now in like back and forth from this very moment...I'd just say – the last five minutes...after I came in here with our coffees and fruits to begin with for breakfast...and then was contemplating whether to wake you up pr not...,"(she finishes with gesturing to the tray at the table on the side)

Arnav walks out of bed on reflex now taking fast strides towards his Fiore – watching her do the pretty much same and he pulls her instantly into a warm hug loving the way she melts right back into his arms and he asks kissing over her head – sincerely – " baby...I was going to begin with the bit...why you'v been awake since dawn??? But then your cheerful vibe and the calmness I can feel in your essence right now...tells me...that you'v just been by yourself all these hours...thinking things through perhaps...so tell me...is this reflection of the bit that you do really feel better about it all....this morning????"

And that Khushi finally pulls up from Arnav's arms and she just nods simply back at him as he tucks a strand of hair behind her ear lovingly – with their eyes locked – and she whispers two seconds later – " indeed..baby...your hunch is right....i'v just been on a thinking spree...all morning...which kind of lead me to so much self-discovery within...I mean..i did some solid self assessments...this morning...which ultimately got me to a point by the end of it...that yeah...I'd be dammed...if I let anyone's hate/biases in the world out there with me in context...define or even influence...what I am feeling within...for it aint..worth it...at all...all of the freaking noise from the outside is not worth tuning into allowing it to change my self-empowering channel within into a self-sabotaging one....i mean...I'v just begun brainstorming...on how.I can actually get there...but the fact that I have begun within...is what is the contributing factor to the calm essence you spot in me ...right now...I mean..its a good start...right????"

That from Khushi – elates Arnav on another level as he simply hugs her all tight and hard and whispers kissing her head over and over feeling so happy in the moment that it was almost surreal – " wow....bab...y...just hearing you say this right now...feels...wow...hell yeah....its a good start...scratch that...will you please? it's a freaking amazing start....we all start from...somewhere...baby....,"and he pulls back and then flicks her nose lovingly as he says – " and I wana hear all about...this brainstorming morning...fiore...,"and he sees his Fiore flick his nose back this time around lovingly as she whispers – "and I can't simply wait...to talk to you about it...why don't you...just quickly freshen up...and then we can chat about it all...over our coffee and fruits??"

Arnav nods at that and the two of them – exchange a knowing look and nod – before he goes onto do just that.

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

30 minutes Later

So - they'd finished sipping on their coffess/munching on fruits/and Arnav had listened to all that Khushi had to say to him.And now as he watches her place both their cups aside on the table upfront – and leaning back to the side of the sofa they were seated - he acts on reflex and pulls her close making her sit on his lap on reflex as he whispers cupping her face holding her by the nape of her neck making her look deep into his emotionally moved eyes – " I am so proud of you...for this...baby...so freaking proud...like...look at you...you'v not only found the key – you'r all set to drive ahead...with the key plugged in – into its spot – now lets freaking....get that engine roaring, up and going...dammit...begin slow...get accustomed to the pace at which you ate dealing with this in your inner self...and then pick up – speed.....like I told you fiore..last night...I know you got this...I know...you can..do this...and you will....and while you are at it...always remember...that your life is a freaking blessing to me...to all of us who love you so much...so very much....k?,"he finishes with a loving nod of his head.

And the fact that Khushi could only spot – so much encouragement, unconditional love and support shining in Arnav's eyes for her right now – only moves her emotionally – immense and so she whispers caressing his cheeks now keeping her forhead on his closing her eyes for a second– " I know....baby...I ..know...and...I...I...couldn't have found the freaking key without you...Ar..na...v...baby....couldn't have...found it...without you...you are like my very own...guardian angel...baby...you truly are...my guiding light...just like you always have been...ever since we mt....like I always...say...you..saving me from darkness in the worst of my lows reminding me that I gotta kickstart and get back up to save myself and fight my way through it..so......how can I not feel like – wanting to take the leap forward then???for yes...its your belief...in me...that adds truckloads of fuel backwards within into my self belief.....thank you...for everything...then...now...always....I love you....so much...baby....so freaking much....I am just so freaking glad...and grateful...that you came to me.....here....thank...you...,"and she finally opens her swirling with happy tears back to him at that.

And the potent look of emotion in Khushi's eyes only moves Arnav immense making him emotional as well and he says caressing her cheeks – " enough...fiore...stop...thanking me...please??? will you now??dammit??"

And Khushi shakes her head in a Nod at that and just as she is about to answer him back they both hear – Arnav's phone buzz in on them and Khushi ends up saying on reflex – " could it be Raima Mom???????"

And Arnav nods instantly at that – " yes..baby...must be Mom...given that its nearing 9 almost...which means..she might already be ready to come to us here...."

Khushi nods and smiles at that as she whispers – " go on then...take it...baby.......ask her to come...asap...please??she'll get your stuff too – right?"

Arnav grins at that as he whispers kissing her head – " indeed I will ask her to come asap...baby....for guess what?? I can't wait for her to be here too....yeah..ofcourse...she will get my stuff..."

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

Two More Hours Later – 11:00 AM

At the Living Area – Inside the House

So what was Azlaan Junaid thinking at the moment? As he observed on the moments around him – yet again. He was only thinking the one thing – that perhaps India's ASR – not only had some magic going on that platinum arm of his – when it came to the 22 yards. Apparently – he surely had some magic going on in there in his systems – on the matters of the heart. For yeah – he didn't know what was it – that he talked with Khushi about last night – but he knew whatever he did – surely seemed to have acted like an magic potion for Khushi.

Or perhaps ASR was meant to be her magic potion?????????

For the very second – he'd spotted Khushi walk in with Arnav near the breakfast table – hand in hand – he had caught onto the difference in her frame in a jiffy. It was that obvious. She was her smiling cheerful smile. All calm and composed as she sat down taking her seat – and first hands down asked Azlaan cheerfully to now fill her in over the surprise he must have felt at spotting ASR there in front of him last night.

Azlaan had obviously exchanged a grin with ASR across and gone onto fill her with it all and the bit that it took him an entore nights sleep to digest and process the bit that her mystery man was ASR. Which only made Arnav grin as well – as Azlaan went onto express the bit that he'd always respected his game as well. He could figure that neither Arnav nor Khushi was interested in giving heed to tune in on the noise on the outside online – first thing in the morning – so he happily joint them in casual conversations – making the two of them talk about their story a little and specially give him a sneak peek into the – MaskCap bit. The minutes that followed were obviously very light hearted and happy ones – but none of them had begun to eat because they were waiting for ASR's mom to arrive.

And once she did arrive – Azlaan was sure he had spotted the relief in her eyes as she hugged Khushi all hard to her heart contents in an emotional silence – letting go – only many minutes later – as she looked at her son and smiled and voiced the words – " good...Arnav...I am gla...d...that..sending you here last night first...worked the exact wonder I'd hoped it would...,"and with that she'd gone to collectively hug both ASR and Khushi – after which the two of them went on with introducing Azlaan to her. Azlaan was pleasantly surprised to hear her thank him for his help – after the introductories were taken care off.

They'd all finally got on with breakfast then collectively and the way ASR's Mom held onto Khushi's hand all tight as she ate only moved Azlaan's more. And the bit that actually made him crack in laughter as well in those moments was the sight off ASR grinning at his Mom as he voiced – " Mom...if you are done...holding Khushi's hand..how about...you let me...given that she's using the other free hand to eat...,"and when his Mom voiced back that he'd have to wait until later and Khushi sided with her as well shooting ASR a warm chucke from across – Azlaan knew it in his instinct deep down. That perhaps – ASR's family already felt that Khushi was one of them.Irrespective of it all.

The next thing that surprised him almost immediately after breakfast was the bit – that Khushi herself asked him for her phone back voicing out loud – that she'd like to connect with everyone of her close ones herself now – thanking them for being with her through this and reassuring them – that she was feeling much better to deal with the road ahead.

He'd observed on with a smile as ASR's Mom and Arnav took turns to hold on to her hand/shoulder in support as Khushi connected with her Mum first, then her friends back in UK, her grandparents , ASR's twin brother and fiancée in Qatar, the rest of his family back in India. The only time the two of them did leave Khushi's side was when she got onto a call with Rehaan/Raahil/Noor as they were getting set to leave Lahore to come here.

Even he caught onto all the relief he'd heard in rehaan uncles/Raahil/noor's voice – as they spoke with her- given that her calm and composed voice gave her away to them.

It was on that moment that he'd walked out of the living area to attend a call.And now – in this moment – as he was walking back towards them all – and he spotted ASR whisper something in Khushi's ear that cracked both her and his Mom up immediately – he couldn't help but wonder the magic potion bit again in his mind as a smile curved up his lips on its own accord.

He was just about to walk upto them – when he spots Khushi get up to walk across towards the kitchen across and as she spots him smiling back at her – she asks with a smile looking back at the happy sight of Arnav and Raima talking – " what?? what is it??? you look like you wana say something?ask something?Azlaan???i was just going to help Raima Mom with some more tea...given that we asked the kitchen staff to take their breakfast break at the moment..."

Azlaan nods at Khushi and asks – "come on then..ill join you..,"and he gestures her to walk ahead and as she does – he admits with a smile and a nod – " well.....its good to see you smiling...Khushi...finally...I mean...after yesterday...I thought that today would be as gloomy a day for you...but perhaps I was wrong...and I am glad I was...for its seems...that ASR surely has some magic works going on around you...I mean...wait..did he give you a potion to drink up? You know like one of those miraculous potions from the harry potter movies??"

That makes Khushi chuckle as she begins to get the cups ready for tea for Raima Mom as she admits sincerely – " well no...he didn't give me any magic potion...Azlaan...for those potions...are...like temporary in their affect...but what he did give me...is a share off his magical +miraculous thoughts and perceptions...that triggered so much of a permanent self discovery within...but yeah...I gotta admit one thing though...he surely is magic...himself..he really is...so is his family..."

Azlaan nods at that sincerely as he sees Khushi work up the tea and they fall into a casual chatter – in which Khushi went on to add that now that she'd spoken to all her close ones in the inner circle- she was actually thinking of writing a thank you mail to her immediate boss at work – for all the support they were extending out towards her – amidst the roaring controversy as well – which only made Azlaan ask Khushi with a grin up his lips – " that would be a good thing to do...Khushi...but tell me something..will you help me get your magic man's autograph please?? I mean...I'v been so happily stumped with over what his presence is to you around here...that I almost forgot...to ask him for the very same...myself...,"and that only made Khushi grin and nod back at him – in sheer glee – obviously.

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

Arnav's POV

Guys.

Any guesses as to why I actually let my Fiore out of my sight as she headed out of this living room to get Mom the tea????

Oh cmon.

I am sure you all can guess it.

It's because I obviously wanted to sneak in the ring in her absence from Mum's bag straight into the deep pit of my track pocket.

Obviously.

I mean it's a given that I forgot to take it from Mom in a rush last night – because at that point in time – I just couldn't wait to get to my Fiore – right? Because every ounce of my priority first - was to make sure that she was feeling better about the whole situation – right???????????

And you all obviously know – all about the brainstorming bit that's been going on in her head since the break of Dawn – right????????

Like – I am so freaking proud of her in the moment for like even being able to recollect all her composure within – and begin working on the belief system within – that she knows she needs to realign! I am just so freaking proud of her – for taking this step – realising that its something that she needs to do the most pretty much for herself – first.

Plus also – all the while as she's just been connecting with everyone – and I'v been listening to her talk – I'v been awed by the shades of her bravery within – that had been overshadowed by all the gloom yesterday. Infact I 'v haven't just been in awe. I have downright just fallen in love with her again with her courage to stand back after a Fall as naturally hurtful as this one.

Which is why I had my impatient heart being all like - Raizada – just propose to her dammit. Seal the deal. Tell her you want a summer wedding.Infact – it was me who gestured Mom to get Khushi away for a couple of minutes amidst our chatter so that she could hand me the ring.And Mom happily obliged – by voicing the wish for some Tea.

Oh yes – on that note – for the last couple of minutes – I'v just been pacing waiting for Khushi to come back in with Mom's tea – pretty much impatiently and Mom's in the middle of giving a heads up on a con call to Akash, Payal, Dad, Di and Jiju – that I am just about to go down on my knee in minutes from now. They can't seem to contain their excitement about it as well and to be honest – I am just so glad that today – we'v all made this conscious effort to be more atuned to what is going on in moments/our internal presence – rather than on all the noise on the outside. For we obviously know – that will keep escalating – anyway – right???? If we keep looking at it all to and fro – its just going to affect all our energies – collectively. And well to be honest – I am kind off refraining from turning on the telly too for just in case I hear any damm media reporters slander my Fiore again and I spot her flinch in ache again – I might just end up smashing the screen with some cutlery as if I were aiming for a clean bowling delivery at the stumps – and ofcourse – I do not want to damage any thing in Khushi's Abbu's getaway holiday home – that he's built for himself and the family with so much love.

I mean – imagine – what kinda impression that would leave on future father in law to begin with hands down????

So yeah. Its good that we'v kept the outside noise at bay and away.

I pause on my chain of thoughts as Mom finally hangs up and shoots me a gesture to come sit by her now and I do and I say in an excited rush – " okay..Mom...remember the plan right? when Khushi comes in...you drink your tea...and then probably ask Azlaan to show you around this beatiful estate...and in the meanwhile...I will do what I'v been dying to for days now..."

Mom grins and nods at that as she says – " yes son..yes...okay...don't worry...I will give you the time...alright??? but is it okay if I take a couple of minutes more for while I sip my tea...I think there is something that I wish to talk to Khushi about...have been contemplating ever since I arrived because..well..she seems so much more composed ...which tells me she's in the middle of sorting things out in her head...so I think this might be the right time that I should point this out to her...so yeah... I am just following my mothers gut and I am going to do it anyway..."

Oh wait.

What could this be about?

And before I could ask Mom that out loud – I hear Khushi's soft puzzled voice from across us ask Mom – " Mom...what is it that you want to say??? Go on...please will you??"

Mom nods at Khushi lovingly now and gestures me to get away from next to her and gestures Khushi to take my place next to her and I just go around Mom on the other side – so that she was in the middle of two us – as Khushi walked up to us.

Once Khushi was seated – she looks up to lock her gaze with mine – as if to ask me – if I had any idea what this was about but then I just shake my head back at her clueless.

Mom takes a sip of her tea now and thanks Khushi for the perfect flavour off it and then she just brushes on Khushi's hair and head lovingly – with my heart beaming in happiness and peace as I watch on from the side.

Khushi catches onto Mom's wrist now as she asks – " Mom..what is it? tell me please??????"

Mom leans forward to kiss Khushi on her head first as she says now – "given that Alice isn't here yet...I feel like I gotta say this to you now...Khushi...you know as Mom's its kind of like our responsibility to help our children see through some points in their lows that we catch on looking from the outside...and because you are as dear to me in my heart as Arnav, Akash, Anjali...I am going to say this out to you....k?and before that...I wana begin with saying...that I am so proud of the way...you'v recollected your composure...at the moment..beta...so proud....i know you will say..its the magical support of this son of mine...but no...I'd say...its part him but majority you...for he could have said all that he had too but if you didn't think or accept that you needed it to do the bit for yourself...his support wouldn't...be as magical....you are so strong...Khushi beta...and so brave....."

I see Khushi leap up into Mom's arms straight at that holding her tight.Mom embraces her in her Muma Bear Hug (again)- and the two of them are so lost into their deep – mother-daughter kind off moment – that they almost forget my presence. Hello...don't misunderstand me guys – I aint complaining. Just controlling my happy tears. I mean – you know I am an emotional man. The sight of two most important woman in life hugging onto each other obviously is going to move me – tear me up happily!

I hear Mom say now as she continues to brush Khushi's hair all the whilst holding her in a warm hug – " beta...your bravery and courage...is what will fuel you to keep going on that journey within...and it is with that same bravery...for the self...that I ask you to think very carefully about what I am saying. Have you ever thought – that perhaps – everything that happened hit so brutally within in your heart because somewhere deep down within..in your subconscious mind – you are yet to accept it all very much yourself...for I'v been observing from afar right...you'v always been so keen on protecting everyone from these consequences...be it your Abbu, your Mum or even Arnav...that you didn't even realise that – that very thought – perhaps was still keeping all your insecurities alive in there?? in your heart????? my child...please think this through...and if you think...my observation could be right...than work on this perhaps?? for only when you will make peace with yourself within on the same....you will be able to walk that path of freedom of the self...the freedom from all these fears/insecurties that have been chaining you for this long....you understand what I mean...don't you beta????????"

Guyssssssssss!

I am freaking stumped at the moment. I can't believe Mom picked up on this as well. I am sure Khushi is going to tell her that she realised the same this very morning – now.

Khushi doesn't pull up from Mom's arms though and she whispers holding onto her tight – " I know...Mom...I know...exactly what you mean...for I realised this very morning...that I hadn't worked on uprooting this insecurity of mine out from its very root for good – completely....i know...I gotta work on it..for I understand now that if I am at peace within for it all – just no one out there in the world will be able to use it as a means to pull me down....and if I give out the vibe...that I myself...am not at peace with the societal tag of illegitimate birth...they will feast on my vibe and then anyone can use it as a string to pull me down..anytime....thank you for saying this to me...Mom..i am going to work on this...I have begun....,"and that only makes Mom hug Khushi harder as she whispers kissing her head over again – " my brave girl....that's like my brave girl....you know khushi...I always tell Arnav...that it often takes the greatest amount of bravery and courage to understand...our very own..complexities and insecurities within....I am so proud of you beta...so so ...proud..."

And Khushi continues to just hug Mom tight at that she whispers – " because you said this out loud to me...only makes me feel like yet again that I truly am your girl in your heart as well Mom...for just like Mum probably would have shown the mirror to me..as well...you in her absence did the very same....Mom...thank ..you...for loving...me the way you do....,"and they continue to hug each other and as I am wiping a happy tear outta the corner of my eye watching on – we all hear Azlaan's voice from upfront as he asks coming on in onto the scene – " uh – oh...did I walk in on something?? sorry...I was just on a call...or perhaps? its better I leave..."

Mum and Khushi finally pull apart and I gesture Azlaan not to worry about it at the same time as they do too and in the very next breathe Khushi adds looking at Mom's tea – " oh Mom...you forgot all about your te.a...it's...cold..now..i guess...ill just make you another one..."

And to that I hear Mom say as she gestures to Khushi to stay seated and she gets up – " nahh...Khushi...don't worry about my tea..for now...I was thinking that...ill first ask Azlaan to show me the beautiful estate your Abbu's built here...as a holiday getaway...home...first...I think...I'd like to walk around...and then come back for tea...,"and she looks at Azlaan and asks – " so Azlaan...would you be comfortable to show me around??"

Azlaan nods at her politely – " ofcourse aunty...please...come on...,"shooting Mom the most courteous smile ever.(Gotta give it to the man – he really is a gentleman)

Plus.

Now that's got my heartbeats racing. For that was Mom and Mine – cue right.

I watch Khushi get up from the sofa as she walks Mom to the sliding door of the living room – before she gestures her to get back in towards me – and heads out with Azlaan – shooting me knowing glance and smile that said the silent words – Good Luck – Son.

Alright then.

Here it is Ladies and Gentleman – the Moment I'v been waiting for what seems like Ages Nowwwww!

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

Khushi's POV

I continue to look at Raima Mom's back as she walks upfront with Azlaan as my heart continues to get consumed in deep love for her too – over and over.

How could it not? Given the way she'd just stepped into Mum's shoes for me in this moment – making me truly feel like – she was my mother too – in so many ways.

Perhaps – this is the time to tell Arnav that I most surely love Raima Mom as much as he does – just like I know he loves Mum as much as I do.

I turn around wiping the happy tear outta my eye with my intention to just go hug Arnav momentarily – and it is right very then – I also feel my feet Freeze in their very spot.

Whyyyyyyyy?

For I spot Arnav on his knee right behind me with a goofy grin up his face with his one hand palming his chin and cheek with the elbow resting over his knee.

WAIT..........

WHY IS HE KNEELING DOWN????????? PLUS WHY DOES HE HAVE A GOOFY GRIN PLASTERED ALL OVER HIS LIPS??

I am sure my eyes have widened into open sockets as I hear myself ask him out loud with puzzlement written all over my face – " Arnav....baby...what's up with you??? what are you doing there down on your knee??right now?? get up..please??"

He shakes his head in a No and answers grinning - " Well...what am I doing down here? Waiting for you to turn around obviously...fiore...I mean...a part of me was so impatient...as you continued to look at Mom's back with so much love as she walked away that I almost fought the urge to turn you around myself...but then...I just gave in to the sight off you looking at Mom so lovingly...which is why...you see me with a goofy grin..as this...one..amidst all my emotions...."

I nod at that on reflex but that from him doesn't settle the puzzlement in my mind and I hear myself ask again – " alrightyy...baby...I hear you....but why are you waiting for me to turn around...like in position of your knee...cmon..get up...now..."

And he shakes his head in a No as he gestures me to stand put there in my spot!

I say groaning now in the moment – " aah...baby...all I want is to hug you..right..now...alright...il just get down on my knee to do the same...,"and at that he groans as he adds – " godammit...fiore...no...don't you kneel down...right now..baby....please...no....you will spoil my moment....dammit...I mean...I planned like...everything that I had to say...just why won't you give me a minute to say it?????"

And I look back at him dazed and puzzled still as I ask crossing my arms around my chest – kneeling down on front of him nonetheless now – " what do you mean baby...?? what moment...am..i spoiling...come here...you dammit...I wana hug you...k???"

And just as I say that – I see him groan in part disappointment as he whispers adorably under his breathe – " godammit Raizada...you waited for ages for this...like minus marks...to you...for the excecution..,"and he gapes at me adorably again as he asks with a frown – " oh baby...why did you kneel down...stand up...please??? will you????????"

I shake my head in a No as I say adamant – " nah..i won't...not until you tell me what this is about..."

And Just as I say that - he kind of lets out a Sigh and whispers – " okay..then...alrighty...looks like I have no choice...but to flow with the moment...then...so you wana know what this is about...fiore...so hear me out...this is..about this....k??,"and as I am still gaping at him in puzzlement – I see him take out a ring box from his track pants pockets as he opens it all wide in front off me – and he whispers locking his gaze with mine in a rush– " will you marry me...fiore...baby?"

WAITTTTTTTTTTTTTTT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WHATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT???

DID HE JUST SAY WHAT HE DID?

DID HE JUST ASK ME TO MARRY HIM?????? LIKE NOW??????

DID HE JUST PROPOSE???????????

Right when- I have this entire fresh scandal going around me on the out???????????????????????????

Tears well up my eyes on reflex as the realisation hits again that this is his way of telling me yet again – that nothing about the noise on the outside can even bother him an inch.He'd just continue to love me the way he does!!!!

CHRIST.

HE SURELY KNOWS HE'S HIT ME WITH A THUNDERBOLT SUPER HIGH IN VOLATGE WITH HIS LOVE! WHICH IS WHY HE PROBABLY DID THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I continue to gape at him shocked and statued on my knees as I ask sure that my voice was trembling with THE emotion – " did you just say what you did Arnav?? or am I dreaming??? Did you just propose? Did you just ask me to marry you?????????"

Arnav nods at that grinning – " indeed...I just did...fiore..."

I say again shaking with all the waves of Love that return to hit me – " baby...you know...I am in the middle of a crazy scandal right now..right??thats still heating and boiling...like its still on fire..."

He shrugs at that grinning and answers with – "ahaan...don't care...so lets get back to the moment...so why are you questioning me back with a question...darling?? I am the one asking you the most important question of my life here...sweetheart...tell me..please? will you marry me??? and make me the happiest man on the planet baby???"

And I can only gape at him back in immense shock as I whisper to ask again – " you want to marry me??? Arnav?????????????"

Arnav nods at that as he grins – "well...yes...I am dying to...why do you think I wasn't letting you talk to your Abbu about us UNTIL NOW...dammit...wanted to put a ring on your finger before you did...its my bad luck it wasn't ready in time for our meet over new years...baby..."

I say again shaking in immense emotion as all of that sinks in as my hand goes onto clutch my heart – " but you just said...you want to marry me..when ..when..oh.......baby....you...you....you want to marry me????????"

And he grins at that once again and answers with a determined nod - " oh...you know what fiore...I fancy a wedding this summer...for sure...for my impatient heart knows..that all I want bad is for our long distance to get transcended into us living together...forever..as man and wife....you did say...that you can actually work on creating your animations+ content like from anywhere right??????so perhaps.. once you finish your masters...in May...days after....id like us to say – I do...formally...for its just a formality anyway..right?? so what say...baby????say yes...will you now...please??? wait...you are going to say – yes...aren't you???????????"

But can I say – Yes – back to him – in the moment? Not because I don't want to. For ofcourse I want to marry him – like so bad as well – but only because as I hear him say the bit to me again – I feel everything in my insides going haywire all over again as the realisation hits over and over that just like he told me he loved me when I feared he'd walk away – he's cementing the union of our souls already – a lot more deeper than it already is – by doing this right now – when I am at the centerstage of a massive scandal.

Godammit.

This Man.

He's going to kill me with all this emotion – one day.

I ask him now – my shaking hands clutching onto my heart - "you told me you loved me...when...I feared you'd walk away...and now you are asking me to marry you...when I am...in the midd..le...of this massive...scandal...you know what you'v done to me in the moment...don't you baby????????? You'v freaking shooketh...everything within me...all over again....are you crazy to love me the way you do?? Baby??or am I crazy to love you the way I do....christ..we are both crazy...perhaps? for all I want is to leap on my hearts desire....irrespecitive of everything else in the moment...for you make me feel like...once again...that is all that matters...our love is all that matters..."

He grins now that side rakish grin of his – that I love and he asks taking my left hand into his – " ahaan....so ..I take that...as a Yes...fiore...is that a yes...baby???? Say it dammit...im kinda dying to put this in your finger..."

I leap into his arms at that as I hug tight as I whisper – " yes...yes...yes...godammit...yes...baby...ofcourse...ill marry you...you are the only one...I wana grow old with...dammit....you are mine...my man....all mine...yes...dammit...yes...let's...do a summer...we..dding...I'd fancy..tha.t...too..."

Arnav hugs me all tight at that first and a second later he pulls back with happy tears in his eyes and we share an emotionally powerful eyelock and he then slips the ring on my finger before he kisses on it lovingly – and just like that as I watch him doing that – something clicks within in my Mind. Within.A thought that just came out of the Blue – and I simply know – the exact lifeboat+submarine – I want to build for myself + him and us as us – going forward into the roaring waves ahead....together....

And I can only hug him back all tight as hard – and so does He. I can feel his heart thumping in sheer happiness in his chest and I am sure he can feel mine do the very same.

Nothing else matters – but the purity of this moment in between of us....

Perhaps that is why – this very potent moment in between of us – triggered my mind to forsee an idea – that Simply seems like that very Light at the Cusp of Dawn...from earlier...this morning.....That gave me the perspective and belief and the Courage ...to JUST get ready to take/face things up ahead....HEAD ON.............

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

TADAAAAAAAA!

How was That Guysssssssss ??????????with the range off scene flow?????????????? Also....... The last scene????????? Did any of you anticipate it happening the way it did????

Next Update : Tuesday night

Until Then – Please take care 🙏🙏🙏🙏

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

Much Love & Gratitude

Always

❤

Prachi

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