Take 44 - Let the Tides Begin
Hellooooo Guysssssssss....
I hope you and your loved ones all are doing well and keeping safe and healthy!!
So - YUP - Here I am with the next update for HW3.0
Word Count – Long in length - 8.6K Words.✍✍
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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 44 – Let the Tides Begin!
The Next Day – 23rd May, 2020
Lahore – Pakistan
Khan Mansion
Raahil and Azlaan exchange a knowing grin with Noor as they all plan through their silent mischievous gestures to gang up on Rehaan for a bit in a fun moment and Raahil says to Rehaan first lounging back in his sofa with his gaze glued to the TV otherwise this gap of a couple of seconds to gaze up at his Abbu – " Abbu....so Noor tells me that she is pretty sure that she's never like never seen you this nervous...while watching any of my game's...or even the PSL final live just recently at our end here...so how is it that you seem to have your knuckles gone all white in anticipation right now as you watch...Arnav bhaijaan's finale up on TV...I mean...where's all that calm gone?? I mean...I know you got a super soft corner for him..we all do... given that he's family already and you too bond really well and strong..but its so not fair that you don't get nervous with your fatherly emotions when it comes to my games and seem to get so worked up when it comes to watching him play the games on TV off late...."
That makes Azlaan and Noor bite back their collective chuckles as well and Noor chips in grinning – " yes...yes...I am telling you na...Raahil...Abbu's knuckles never go white...in nervousness ever...as in I have never seen it happening before...and yet..we see it now.."
Azlaan chips in next gleefully taking a look at Rehaan's clutched hands – " indeed...Noor...Raahil...they truly are white...uncle...give your fist a break...will you please? its strategic time out time at their end.."
So - The IPL Final is currently underway at the Wankhede in Mumbai and here in Lahore - Rehaan, Raahil, Noor and Azlaan were currently watching the finale up on TV at the Khan Mansion!(As hinted above)
Rehaan says now finally relaxing his fist that had been so tightened up and admits with a little smile to all – " well to be honest to you all...I had no idea that my hands were fisted so tight in nervousness either..until you all pointed it out to me...,"And he adds further with a little relaxed shrug putting his hands to his side – " and perhaps...I am just getting worked up for no reason...Chennai needs only 45 runs in the last four overs...and Arnav's just come on crease in the previous over ...we all know he can do it...given his power hitting arm..right??,"and he states reassuring himself and all again – " yes..yes...he will do it...there's nothing to worry about..at all...right??and don't you be jealous boy..,"he adds further to Raahil – " for the only reason I am so calm when I am watching you play..is because...iv seen you play ever since you were a child..I can surely aniticipate your thinking on the ground..in my head...and I am yet to come around to anticipating Arnav's moves well in advance in my head..even though I'v come to know him closely..off late...maybe in his upcoming games...later this year on...I'd be as calm too.."
Raahil grins at that and adds playfully now – " I know...Abbu...I know..I was only kidding...and yes...there's nothing to worry about...we all know...Arnav bhaijaan can pull this off...I am sure even he believes he can..."
Noor chips in next – " exactly Abbu...I mean..didn't you yourself say he came in just in the last over...but you see...he's already hit three fours in the previous over..and taken a double run which means...hes like on 14 runs in just 4 balls...already...just relax Abbu..I mean..we know...195 to chase in the final is a pressure score...but look at what an amazing game he's had..anyway...4 wickets for him in the first innings...and now...looks like...he's going to finish and seal the game for Chennai..."
Azlaan adds next sipping on his water grinning – " I think Khushi's presence in the ground...is working as an additional boost..for him..perhaps??"
Even though they were all watching the game up live on TV and it was impossible for them to spot Khushi in the sea of Yellow Chennai Jersey fans at the Wankhede for there were obviously more fans in the stadium rooting for Mumbai as well – on screen –but they all obviously knew that – Khushi was going beserk cheering for the love of her life in the stadium along with Maya,Jack, Sarah and Brian – anyway!
Rehaan couldn't help but smile at that on reflex as he admits – " well...I couldn't not agree to that...for I did text the same to Alice...in the break after the first innings...she believes the same..as well...even though he can't spot her in the crowd...he knows she's there for him in the stadium...watching over...and that essense of the feel works as an added boost for sure..for him...you would know son...right?given that I know you feel the exact same way as Noor watches you on from the stands..in live games.."
Noor and Raahil exchange a warm loving gaze amongst themselves at that and Raahil admits sincerely locking his loving gaze with Noor's across – " ofcourse...I know eaxactly what you mean by that..Abbu.."
And Azlaan adds next – " ahem...to be fair enough...don't we all know that??"
They all share a warm chuckle at that and as Rehaan continues to take in the AD running up on screen at the moment during the live streaming of the final they were watching he sincerely admits out to the three softly – " but perhaps...my knuckles were white...not in worry for Arnav...because of the game..kids...but in collective worry for both Arnav and Khushi..for we know don't we...that Arnav plans to head back to delhi with her by his side..put day after...everyone there in India will know then..and even though I know..we all know...that Khushi is prepped for this tide...sometimes the volatile current in the tide upfront can be truly volatile and startling to begi with...right??"
Noor , Raahil and Azlaan share a collective nod at that as they say – " we understand...,"and Raahil adds next smiling in a relaxed way – " but Abbu to be honest...I am not worried at all though...for I know Aapa's got this...k?"
Azlaan grins and adds – " my thoughts exactly...I mean we all know she's been cooking something on this accord..even though she wont tell us..just yet...my gut says we will all know it very soon anyway..."
Noor adds next wanting to reassure Rehaan too – " exactly Abbu....and guess what...Aapa wouldn't want you to worry in the moment please.....just continue enjoying watching the final as she is at that end..look...she also just texted me a group picture during the strategic timeout- see she's all grinning..she's not worried at all neither at the game front at the moment..or the personal bit coming after....,"and she pauses to show Rehaan the picture!
And as Rehaan looks at the picture he finally feels his worry easen a tad bit little – indeed for the grin up his beti jaan's face in the photo from a couple of minutes ago did tell him – that even though he did get worried for his beti jaan on and off – she'd grown accustomed to showing him with great conviction and strength of her being off late – that he really was just wasting his energy with all the worry! Perhaps it would be better to just enjoy the gaming thrill upfront and then later let his father's heart bask in the happiness of his daughter's upcoming wedding celebrations – instead?
And so he realigns his thoughts and leans back in the sofa all relaxed and he shares a knowing grin with Noor, Raahil and Azlaan as he gestures Noor to get the volume up as the game begins and Rehaan Khan feels gets all set to see his future son in law – play out the last four overs – in the thrilling finale of the IPL streaming live on his screen in Lahore – from the Wankhede Stadium in India!
He just decides to text Alice – as well!
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Back in London
Alice was also watching the game up live on her screen given that she couldn't be there in person and she was a bundle of nerves at the moment too during the strategic time-out – as she distracted herself from game conversations with her Mum and Dad for the first minute and then they got onto discussing some details about the wedding venue etc! Now that bit had obviously relaxed Alice's attention from the nerving finale up ahead on screen. It was an obvious – that not just her but her parents too were sitting with their fingers crossed – at the moment – with the hope to see Arnav hit the winning runs.
It is right then her phone beeps with Rehaan's text as he mentions – the game context to Alice with the words : 45 runs in 4 overs Alice! Our future son in law – is surely going to pull this off! What do you think though – he'd finish it off with a straight drive or the helicopter shot as a sixer??
That makes Alice grin as she types in a quick reply : A straight drive perhaps – Rehaan?we all know its become one of his favourite shots off late right??
Rehaan : yes...I think so too..Al..
Alice fights back a shiver in her being. It had been months since he started calling her Al and yet everytime he did – she shivered as if it were the first time he ever did...
She replies now as her attention diverts to the screen as her Mum increases the volume as the game resumes : Talk later Rehaan..game begins...
And she puts her phone on the side and focus her attention on the TV totally aware that her parents had also exchanged a knowing lool amongst themselves just like they do everytime they observe the emotion on her face while chatting up with Rehaan!
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Simulatenously @ Robert Wilson's place in London
Given that Robert and Brad played for the Rajasthan team in the IPL and the team hadn't made it beyond the eliminator stage – both of them had obviously returned to London to spend some quality time at home with their families before gearing up for the upcoming season with the national unit!
At the moment – the two buddies were sitting and watching on the IPL final live streaming from India at Rob's place. In wait for the strategtic time out to get over – Rob hears Brad ask sipping on his beer – " what say mate? Whose winning this? Mumbai or Chennai? My take is Mumbai...45 runs in the last 4 always a steep chase...plus..Mumbai's still got there specialist death bowlers in place for the last two overs..."
Rob sips on his beer as he says sincerly – " well...anything's possible Brad...never over until the last ball...I think ASR will win this for Chennai...I mean...I surely hope so...he does..."
Brad shoots him a curious look again as he says to that – " and just like that I cannot believe you are hoping for ASR to hit the winning runs in any game..watching on...just like I couldn't believe my eyes seeing you bond with him off pitch...during our tour of India mate...,"and then adds pretty much grinning – " throw more light on the context of this interesting twist...perhaps?"
Rob smiles to himself at that sipping his beer. Even though Brad was one of his best bud – he still hadn't told him about Khushi's + Arnav's connection plus how they'd eventually gone onto be at the friendly cordial comfortable page – because of all that had happened – over the last year! It wasn't that he didn't want to tell Brad.But he knew he yet had to guard Khushi secret of being with Arnav until they themselves talked about it to the world -which is why he couldn't share all the details with Brad just yet! But he knew the time to do so was coming soon anyway given Arnav+ Khushi's wedding and so he says shrugging casually – " I will...surely throw all the light...on the context...soon...Brad..very soon..."
He sees Brad grin back at him at that as he hears him exclaim further – " can't believe Khushi's there though at the Wankhede...at the moment...I mean...I guess its work calling...but she's just been so brave through it all for these last couple of months...don't you think??"
Rob nods at that affectionately on reflex – " very brave indeed...Brad...proud of how far she has come...,"and he hears Brad answer – " me too...and just because iv been so curious...im just ask this off you again Rob...who put that ring on her finger? Are you sure you have no clue? Is it the Azlaan guy from Lahore – as the online rumour goes??and on that note – how about you tell me now...if that ring on her finger doesn't affect you emotionally anymore...? you are okay...arent you?as in over her...for good?"
Robert smiles at that sincerely and admits the feeling of coming along a lot more of peace within at this context - "well how about if I just answer the latter Brad for now....no...the ring on her finger doesn't bother me emotionally...much..anymore...Brad...I feel like a lot has come to a full circle within...on this regard...I'v dealt with it within...am over her...just waiting to move on...as in...waiting to meet someone who catches my interest....and perhaps...from where I see it at the moment...all that matters to me...is...that..she's happy with who she is with...and that's all I truly want for her...for them...he's a good man and the right man...for her..."
That makes Brad look at him with narrowed curious eyes – " oh..so you do know who he is then...you won't just tell me..cmon..Wilson its me...your best bud??"
Rob shoots him an apologetic look at that as he says – " like I said...I will tell you about it when the time comes...and it's a good thing..its coming very soon...like right around the block already..anyway come on..the match resumes...lets see who wins this..."
That makes Brad shrug in a casual alright – as he returns his attention to the TV screen shooting Rob a puzzled look! And what was Rob thinking in the moment as he observes the sight of Arnav on screen all set to face the very first ball of the over after time-out? He was sending out a best wish for him for he truly was rooting for Chennai's victory in the Final just like he was also rooting and hoping for Khushi+ Arnav's collective composure through the personal tide that was about to come their way as they came out as a couple to light!
Why? Because his God knew – that even today – he only wished well for the two of them in his heart. He just always – would.
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At Wankhede – Mumbai
Khushi's POV
Guys – I swear to you all that the only reason why I am not screaming my lungs out further at the moment in cheering for Arnav right now is because – I don't want to risk my voicebox crashing on me into a mute mode for two main reasons actually.
The first one being the bit that – I really am going to need to use my voice in the next couple of days for my anticipatory talk with Radha and her boss.And second – just what if my throat gets like all hoarse etc and it doesn't recover in time for our wedding?
I mean – just imagine if I were to say my vows out loud to Arnav at our wedding in a croaked hoarse voice????????
Like – NOOOOOOOOOOOOO! That is so not happeneing! Right?
So which is why I am sure you all agree that it is safe to keep the insane cheering tuned into like a controlled mode!
Okay – So given that I just spotted the love of my life hit a massive sixer in the moment – I think its time to give you the live match details while I jump up and down in excitement like a monkey! So the - Mumbai team scored a massive 195-6 down in their 20 overs given that they won the toss and chose to bat first! In the first innings – Arnav was fantabulous with the ball so much so that he freaking clinched 4 amazing wickets!(I don't need to mention that I was the Jumping Jack Monkey in the moment like I am at the moment too – right??)
Anyways so after the innings break – the chase began and the Mumbai bowlers kept things tight in the powerplay indeed but the Chennai openers kept thing steady and going post that after which there was a loss of back to back wickets even though the run rate was like under check and by the time Arnav came into bat – Chennai were – like 141 – 6 down(with Cap just losing his wicket)
But Arnav came right in and hit some crackling boundaries which got us all Chennai fans going beserk in the stadium and well ever since after the Strategic TimeOut he's been playing it very calculatively with his batter (a WI all rounder) on the other end. They'v been running doubles and Arnav's hitting boundaries every third/last ball per say which has kept the run rate in check and within reaching distance – yet again!
As of now – at the end of 18th over – Chennai are – 174-6! Basic equation 22 runs needed in 12 balls remaining to win the game and Arnav's batting on 30 runs at the moment! Oh Christ and to be honest – its not just me whose praying that he somehow miraculously gets his half-century this final – its M, S, Jack, brian too next to me plus Akash+ Payal in the family box along with the rest of Indian players(who are not playing the IPL) + their family+ friends.
(So given our wedding preps are going on last minute stuff etc only Payal+ Akash could make it here for the final – this evening and the four of us plan to leave to Delhi day after and M, S, Brian and Jack will return to London the same day to help Mum oversee the last minute arrangements there. I'm heading to Delhi because Raima Mom wants me to be there for a couple of days as well as we finish the last-minute try outs of outfits etc! She took my basic measurements to get some outfits done for me through phone actually and now she obviously wants me to try it out before the wedding! We all will fly back to London together – eventually)
I feel Maya and Sarah nudge me on either of my sides now mischeviously as the camera hovers over the faces of the celebrities come in to see the match and they show Roohi on reflex cheering alongside Ved+ Mahi plus all the other Indian players from the unit who are not playing the final and they ask in collective mischevious unison – " Khushi...are we sure that we are not dunking down a glass of water on her...at the least?? Like accidentally of course??"
We all share a chuckle at that and I clutch on the Chennai flag hard in my hand as I whisper grinning – " Nahhhh....ladies...she's just lucky...iv been in such a great mood...today..as well...just like I was the other day....so yup...no glasses of water dunked down on her in reality...perhaps just one in my head within the walls of my imagination...you know what I mean?"
We all share a chuckle at that again and Maya and Sarah nod and hug me from the sides and clutch on my arm next in extended support as well. For Well – it isn't that I haven't been getting the usual hovering eyes looks here in our box at Wankhede – for I surely have been but then – as you all know I just don't simply care about that anymore and I am obviously not going to let anything from the out spoil my happiness in the moment of watching Arnav play another crackling game of his life – Live!
Phone beeps with texts from Mum , Abbu, Raahil, Noor and they are all collectively so excited at either of their ends too. I smile at that within. Obviously.
And it is right then – Brian and Jack remind us to return our attention on field – as they physio team from the Mumbai team is done checking up on the bowler set to bowl in the next over for he did injure himself a little at the boundary line in the previous delivery in an attempt to catch Arnav's flying sixer ball!
Alrighty then – Guys!
Gotta pause for a bit.Why? Because I gotta watch the love of my life win this freaking final match – ofcourse! How am I so sure that he is going to win it? Because as they show up his face on screen as he puts on his helmet to get set for the next over – something in my gut tells me that the very moment he crosses over to the hitting end after his partner takes the run – he might just end up finishing the game in this over itself!
Yup! That's how deeply determined and solid the look of conviction in his eyes was as I spotted his face all zoomed in on screen!
Go for it Baby! You can do it!! I just know you will!!
And the crazy me begins to wave the flags around with Sarah and Maya in crazy fan anticipation as we see Arnav take the run as his partner signals and he crosses over and the Chennai fan crowd around us – start chanting his name out Loud in rhythms off – ASR!ASR!ASR!
What do we all do next?
We JOIN IN OFCOURSE!
Gentle reminder to self though – save the voice for the Vows – Khushi Jones!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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On the Pitch –
Arnav's POV
Okay Then ! Everybody! I 'v got some serious gaming goosebumps going down my arm at the moment as I cross over and lean forward to slide my bat into the batters crease just in time – so that I am not at the risk of a run out!
Phew!!!!!!!!!! Made it just in time! I look back at the partbner on the other end and we gesture a thumbs – up to each other with my heart thumping in the middle of my chest in crazy gaming excitement. Why?
Because as my mind relives the gaming equation upfront that we'v come down too – I feel my heart guide me to just go with my inner instinct at the moment which is totally telling me to take on the bowler – bowling in even though he's been an excellent death bowler for Mumbai for he totally looks like he's under pressure and at the moment as I observe his body language across as he's in talks with Raunak(one of my best buds+ The Mumbai Captain) – I can totally feel that Raunak is just asking him to keep his cool and bowl in some yorker's to me – perhaps? But the bowlers shaken in head in a gesture of a No – which tells me that he's probably not in the mood to give me yorkers but give me shot balls with the intention to have me caught out at the boundaries! Oh – the talk between Raunak and the bowler continues for a couple of seconds and I walk back in the middle of the pitch to pump my fist with my partner on the other end – smiling as we chat up my strategy! Smiling because I just observed Raunak shake his shoulders in a shrug which tells me he probably gave in to the bowler following his gut even though as a Skipper he knows that only the yorkers can break my rhythm?
Well! Well! Well! You know what guys – here's a thing when you play along with your team-mates and close friends- just like they can anticipate what you might be thinking – you can do the very same too! Raunak knows me so freaking well – he probably spotted the look of solid conviction+ the little streak of impatience in my eyes as I ran to the crease in the previous ball which tells him that – I probably am aiming to finish the game – this over – which is why he walked over to his bowler to ask him to give me yorkers – for we all know it is insanely difficult to go for boundaries on yorkers right?
Anyways – as my luck would have it – the bowlers really not aiming for yorkers for real for as he begins his run up – I spot Raunak gesture the fielders to spread out over mid wicket and long on – long offs+ third man etc and I finally get back to my crease hopping on my feet – rotating my bat in my hand- biting back my grin.Sorry brother – you had the right hunch..but perhaps ..this games just destined to go our way!
And guys – just so you know they are totally aiming to trap me into mishitting a boundary and the only way I am going to like overlap their mind strategy is by simply giving them no option to do so by simply aiming to hit the ball out of the park! 21 runs in 11 balls! All I need is four freaking sixes! Why risk going into the last over when I have my inner belief guiding me that I can totally seal this – this over?????????????
Ha!
This is going to be Fun! Always is – when I am bowling/batting/ or involved in a catch out in crucial final moments of any game – my hearts go beserk in gaming rhythms! And perhaps – the other reason why I am backing my inner belief so much at the moment is – that I'v just been so stumped emotionally by Fiore – ever since she talked it all out to me last night!
I open my eyes now and take a deep breathe and as I spot the speeding shot ball delivery come my way – I freaking time it perfectly with the middle of my bat and send it flying outta the park – with my eyes glued to the ball until its reached its flying distance over the top spectator stand at the Wankhede!!!! The Umpire signals a six – and I walk up to my partner and we smack our fists and he grins and adds – " just three more of those...ASR...please? I got the best seat in the house...today.."
We share a grin at that and a determined nod and I walk back to my crease!That one was for you Fiore – My Love! I am sure you are going nuts in celebration in the stands!
Raunak's shaking his head in dismay though and is once again in talks with the bowler to probably convince him to shoot me the yorker/or a wide yorker at the least but the bowler looks like he's convinced he could trap me with the shot ball mishit this next delivery- I guess! Raunak just shrugs and asks him to do his bit then and as I observe him(the bowler) calmly take on his run up and he takes two steps less than he usually does in his run up – my gut tells me that he's going to go in for a change of pace to trap me this time – he's going to tow it down from fast to medium – fast! I bite back my grin within – thank god for the gifts of my intuitions and perceptions! If I tune in with calmness and belief – they always guide me through!
I get set adjusting my helmet yet again and just as I had aniticipated – in comes in a medium pace shot ball delivery in my face again – which I am able to hit for a massive six – into the stands yet again – successfully!(This one's for you – Mom, Dad, Akash, Payal, Di, Jiju, Alice Mum)
HAAAAAAAAAA! LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!
Just 10 runs needed in 9 balls!
The bowler can't believe it – that I anticipated his move earlier though – I most surely am able to catch that as I walk in to greet my partner mid-pitch!
Just 10 more Runs!!
The bowler is seriously under pressure now and this time around even though he aims to deliver a yorker he mis-delivers it and ends up sending a half-volley delivery my way which I am able too hit into the stands too!( This one's for you – Abbu, Raahil, Noor, Azlaan)
Guys!!!!!!!!! I am freaking stoked on another level with the feel of goosebumps engulfing my arms. I obviously feel this way – everytime I hit back to back boundaries!! I can hear the roar from the Chennai fans in the stadium alongside my batting partner as we fist out pumps and he pats my arm to finish it off in swag as he says grinning – " that's 48 runs for you...buddy...just two more to a thrilling half century...with your power packed this hitting..."
Oh is it?? I totally forgot about that personal milestone – in the thrilling quest of the chase!
We can also see most of our Chennai team-mates all stood up on their feet in anticipation in the dug out too! And Cap – My Captain – the image of his calm and composed smile up his faces makes it too the big screen and I feel all my respect for him /inspire me through – further!
4 runs needed in 8 balls...I know I can finish with a Drive in a Four and it will still take me to 52 but my insides just feel like they are in the mood to roll and dance which guides me to stick to my intent of smashing another sixer – only! I pause to observe the bolwers body language as he's in talks with Raunak again and my gut tells me that he's going to bowl in a full toss to me now yet again with the aim off having me caught at mid- on I guess which is why he asks Raunak to station another fielder around there!
Oops! Sorry buddy! I intend to send this one flying outta the Park as well.
And as anticipated – in comes in a full toss to my face and just as I hear the sweet sound of the ball hitting the middle of my bat in a solid thump – I just know it that I have sent it high and fly into the stands indeed! I wait – just for a second for the Umpire to signal the Six and just as he does – I run up in the middle of the pitch and jump onto my partner at the non strikers end just as he jumps onto me – too – and we go beserk in gaming celebrations – Obviously!!!!!!!!!!!
We did it!!!!!!!!!!!! We Won the IPL at the Wankhede – defeating Mumbai at their home pitch!!!! And I can't seem to stop celebrating with my partner on the other end in glee. He reminds me happily too that this winning sixer just lead me to 54 too – completing my half century and I finally pause on my jumping to subtly raise my bat to my team in the dug outs – but I am unable to complete the action – obviously for it is right then I spot most of our team-mates race up towards us both – and in no less than a second – they are all toppled over us both – as we all go beserk in collective celebrations!
Boy!
I am stoked beyond explanation – Obviously!!!! Like totally exhilarated within on another tangent – altogether – in such deep ways that all a part of me wants to do is just run off the field into the stands where My Fiore is – hug her hard into my arms first and then proclaim right there in front of the whole freaking ground – that she's the love of my Life – My Soon to be wife whom I am irrevocably in love with! But then – just as that tide of excitement comes through within, the tides of deep love that I feel for my Fiore reach its shore too and I just gulp down my excitement from prior within – only because I love her in the deep ways I do. I mean – as much as I want to proclaim to the whole wide world at the moment that I am tying the knot with Khushi – my heart that's so devoted to her doesn't want to risk like a mob scene with tides of Hostility targeted towards her – for given our circumstance and everythings that happened over these months is obviously got us prepared for this right? And I know she is not prepped in her head for this – as well – like at the stadium and I am obviously not going to do anything to throw her off guard with this even though she's come a long way within. For my heart tells me that – it would feel like as if I were taking My Fiore's courage+ strength within for granted – then?
So Yup – Then! The decisions been made everyone! I am totally going to stick to the our plan from prior for that is what we both decided on collectively and I know she's not only just comfortable with that but also completely prepped to tackle it at that point in time in her head+ Heart!
Godaamit Fiore!!! I so wish I could whisk you up in my arms right now though and just swirl you around....
Hmmm.
I will ...soon...very soon...
I get distracted in my thoughts as Cap and the rest of my team mates strike a conversation as we continue celebrating our victory and some of then nudge me in the arm as they chime happily that I might just be the contender for the player of the tournament as well...not only the match...
Well...Well...Well...I know I might not be willing to risk Khushi's well being at the moment...by announcing us in the stadium...specially when I am not by her side in the stadiums...but that's surely not going to stop me from dedicating my awards to the woman I love(at least cryptically)...Indeed!
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Ever since Arnav had hit the winning runs – all of his near and dear ones watching the match live on TV were in a pool of happy tears – obviously – celebrating alongside him behind their screens.
His parents+ Di+ Jiju were exhilarated on other level at home.Alice was already popping a champgene with her parents back in London!Rehaan+ Raahil+ Noor+ Azlaan were celebrating with a round of sumptuous dessert back in Lahore!And what was the best part? It was the bit how everyone was also collectively connecting with one another to share their happiness which only seemed to multiply as well.
Back in London – even Rob was cheering to his once arch nemesis ASR with Brad!
In the crowd at the stadium – The Chennai fans had gone all hooting and cheering in massive celebration – obviously and all of those exhilirating gaming celebrations were still going on. On the online/social media feed – congratulatory messages started flooding in for the Chennai franchise – for Captain Dev+ all of Chennai players+ Arnav!
In the family box – Akash and Payal were both fighting the collective urge to run up to Khushi and celebrate with her too because they knew Arnav had planned their announcement – differently and so for the moment with great difficulty – they kept their celebrations on with Ved+ Maahi+ Sameer+ rest of the Indian players+ friends+ families who were present in the box!
Needless to say – Khushi was in a pool of happy exhilarated tears as well as she saw Arnav celebrate with his team on pitch and she was obviously stoked in exhilaration with Maya, Sarah, Brian and Jack as well! Infact in that last over – she actually thought her intention to save her throat box for the D-Day would go flying outta the park as well for yes – that was how much she ended up screaming in gaming exhilaration – in real for she just didn't have it in her to keep her voice in control despite M, S, Jack + Brian's reminders. And she was also on text with everyone side by side on Whatsapp and she was beyond just delighted to be a part of the exhilaration they were all feeling at the moment – for Arnav!
Now – in the present moment – Khushi finally puts her phone back in her denims as the scenes on pitch tell her that the post match presentation is about to begin and she shares a collective warm smile with M, S, Jack and Brian as they sit back in their seats along side the rest of the Chennai fans in the stand – to relish the moment!(Some of the Mumbai fans had left. Some had stayed back too!)
And as they all collectively watch the post match presentation come through – Khushi can only focus her eyes on the love of her life's face as it were also being blown every now and then on screen. How could she look away from the joy on his face?
Many minutes later – once Cap finishes his interview – and most of the awards are awarded – they all hear the presentor say now – " the man of the match award goes to none other than ASR.....for his stupendous performance tonight with the ball for claiming 4 wickets first innings + a run out+ catch out + the not out 54 runs in the second innings...infact...we would like to call him on not just for the man of the match award...he's the one whose backed the player of the tournament award as well....for his steadily soaring high performance every match...he's played for the Chennai franchise..this year..."
Khushi breaks into a massive round off applause alongside rest – her happiness knowing no bounds as she catches the sight of Cap nudging Arnav to step up front. She wipes a happy tear outta the corner of her eye as she sees Arnav straighten the cap on his head first grinning and walking up and he's asked a couple of gaming questions first as on routine and once he's done answering those – as the awards are handed to him by the presentors – and he's called on Mike again the reporter asks grinning – " how does that feel ASR? Holding not just the man of the match award but the player of the tournament award as well?"
And they all hear Arnav speak into the mike grinning happily – " surreal...indeed...it feels great...legit great...within....I mean..as I answered in the gaming questions prior...its always been my intent to give my very best to my team at any given day be it for India in Blue/Whites or in Yellows for my franchise at the IPL/..."
The presontor grins and adds – " you'r quite the loved one in any of your teams ASR...look at the way your mates are celebrating your moment behind you..or from that stand..where the rest of the men in blue came in to watch the match.."
Arnav grins to that his gut taking the que to be his moment– " and I can only say that I feel blessed on very deep levels within to experience their love and support that they shower upon me now just now but always...infact ...these awards...I'd like to dedicate them to each of my family members...blood and beyond...friends who are like family too...and then ofcourse...to her...the woman I deeply love....these one's for all of them and her...my fiancée....thank you everyone..for just being there..always...."
That from Arnav not only surprises everyone in the crowd as the hustle bustle begins to the mystery wondering who she could be in the fan crowd but also nudges the presentor to ask him out of curiosity – " wait wait...wait...ASR...did you just say fiancée?? When did this happen??"
Arnav chuckles happily – " well its always been happening in my personal backstage for a long long time...I am quite protective about my personal space..usually...but the moment today...called for it...I couldn't not dedicate my achievements to the woman I love and deeply cherish....thank you fiore...I wouldn't be here...without your rocksolid support...and...your unconditional rays of love..."
The presentor grins – " well...in that case... I must add a heartfelt....congratulations...to you and her ASR......wish you and your family all the very best...,"And Arnav nods and walks back to join his team – mates – knowing very well in his head and heart that His Fiore was probably fighting back her tears in the stand with great difficulty at the moment.
And was Khushi fighting back her overwhelmed happy tears with great difficulty in the moment? Oh Yes – ofcourse she was! Ever since she'd heard Arnav say those words with so much emotion for her shining in his eyes + face – she'd only felt her heart skyrocket to space in emotion! But it was the other gush of intense emotion that was driving her more nuts – in her heart – the emotion that came with the realisation as she'd observed Arnav's frame that he'd probably held on to his gush off sudden excitement of announcing them – right here – only for her sake! In order to protect her from a hostile mob scene – perhaps?
He'd always protect her. He'd always respect her. Put her well being – first – above any of his impromptu wishes as well! Not just now – but always!
So – How? Just How could Khushi Jones - not fall in love with her soon to be husband for the gazillionth time – again? – as she kept her eyes glued to his face on screen – fighting the blurry pool of happy tears in her eyes!
...................................................
Back in Lahore – Raahil+ Noor+ Azlaan were moved as well with they'd heard and Rehaan felt his fathers heart be moved deeply yet again as he heard Arnav's words for his Beti Jaan – just like it had the same affect of Alice in London!
What did the two do then?
They obviously got onto a text chat about the same almost instantly!
In London - Even Robert Wilson cheered to himself with the beer in his hand – taking a silent sip with just silently thinking the words within exchanging a smile with Brad. He's the One for Her – Brad. The One.The Right One.Her One and Only.Wish them all the best and all the strength for the tides up ahead.....
And everyone at Arnav's home – was also beyond moved emotionally!
And everyone who had stayed at the Wankhede was also now constantly buzzing among themselves – wondering the very same that who was ASR's fiancée? To name a few amongst the same – were Radha+ Arnav's ex – Roohi as well. She was curious to know which was why she even asked Ved+ Maahi+ Akash about it and they all could only tell her – that they were sorry but they couldn't reveal anything at all on this accord – not until Arnav did it himself!
What did Roohi feel then? She felt curious ofcourse but she understood nonetheless. And so in her heart – she just wished him and the woman he loved all the best silently. Being with him for the while they were in the past had always strengthened her conviction within – that there really was no doubt that ASR was a thorough gentleman with a heart of gold – Indeed!
.....................................................
A Little Over One Day Later(36 Hours Later)
Mumbai – India
It had been a little over 36 hours since the IPL final had screened live, its culmination resulting in Chennai being the Champions again. Over the span of all these hours – the buzz up online with regards to the same and congratulatory messages etc kept flooding in for the Chennai team + players – both in the online world media/and offline media too back in India!!
And whilst all of this was on – there was another buzz that had kept the netizens/especially ASR's fans all occupied up in comments online – wondering out loud in speculations as to who could be his Mystery Lady Love+ Fiancee.
Khushi and Arnav had obviously been up to date with the buzz about the latter as well and in a way – Arnav was glad that he'd spoken his heart out in the post-match interview – for now when he would be seen with Khushi – it would be naturally understood – that his lady love was Her!
Most of the other players + the other Chennai team players had already left Mumbai – this morning post the official photoshoots/press -conferences yesterday. Even Maya, Brian, Jack, Sarah had left for London – this morning – for they knew they had nothing to worry about their friend – given the love of her life was going to be holding her hand tight as they finally made their way out – hand in hand! Infact as the moment of their coming out together in the open – neared – even Alice/Rehaan/Raahil/Noor were not really worried at either of their ends for they also knew that as long as Arnav was there holding their Khushi's hand tight through it all in real time – they were both going to be Okay! So strangely – everyone of Khushi+ Arnav's near and dear ones were finally feeling a sense of calm take over them which was more to do with the bit that – Finally.Everyone would know. About time. Etc
In the present moment now – Arnav+ Khushi are getting set to leave Mumbai alongside Payal + Akash in a group of four. Ravi jiju had arranged for one of his companies private charter to fly them back to Delhi on the day as per Arnav's wishes for Arnav had obviously anticipated the bit that chaos would begin as soon as they were spotted and once again he wanted to be on the safer side with his Fiore's safety – as the news broke out. He also felt like they'd need the two hours of private flying time to Delhi – after the anticipatory hustle bustle at the airport – itself!
And earlier this morning – post M, S, Jack and Brian's departure – Khushi had packed up her stuff and moved out of the AirBnB into Arnav's studio where – the three of them – Arnav, Akash, Payal had stayed for the night – last night as well.
At the moment – the four of them are just getting set to leave – for the airport in a bit!!
...................................
Arnav's Room at his Studio
Arnav cups his Fiore's face snug as he continues to kiss her lovingly, emotionally and slowly – loving the way she was seeming all relaxed within the circle of his arms. He'd began kissing her this way about ten minutes ago – ever since he and khushi had walked back to the room to finish winding up last minute and Akash and Payal were on the out doing the same too. He just felt like he needed to pour his intense emotions and support into her lips instead of just comforting her with words – given that they were both just minutes away – from stepping out hand in hand – for the very first time!
Khushi was obviously loving the moment as well. Arnav's slow and emotional moves over her lips were serving as the exact last minute soothing bit – she needed to zone into a state of further composure and calm. Which is why she was only relaxing further by the second in his embrace mirroring similar potent emotions back to him.
She hears Arnav ask now into her lips in a hoarse whisper – " fiore...you okay? Baby??"
Khushi consumed his lower lip back with her upper one as she whispers clinging onto him further – " ahaan...what does this tell you baby?,"And she feels Arnav consume both her lisp into his briefly and intensely before he whispers – " tells me...you okay...baby...but just say it out loud...please??"
Khushi does tangling her hand into his hair – "ahaan...if hearing it out loud will comfort you...ofcourse I will say it baby...yes I am okay...more than just okay...you tell me...are you okay?? Too??"
At that from Khushi – Arnav finally pulls away from her lips reluctantly and places his forhead over her and looks deep into her eyes placing her palm over his heart – " and what does this tell you..fiore??"
Khushi smiles lovingly – " tells me that you are more than just okay...too..baby.."
Arnav nods and Khushi bends forward to place a kiss over his heart as she whispers a second after just hugging him tight – " you know..baby...in my head all this while..imagining this moment...just minutes away..i'd always thought..i'd atleast feel those nervy flutters in the pit of my stomach.."but strangely...none of those flutters exist in there..all I feel is this serene calm taking over...like I just feel more relief release within at that thought that finally...it will just be out there...for everyone to know...nothing more to guard in the closet..what about you baby? You feeling any nervous flutters??"
Arnav kisses Khushi's head gently and lovingly at that as he whispers hugging her tight – " nah...none at all...fiore..for yes...I know exactly what you feel by the former...and I pretty much feel the same...infact most of my insides are sighing in relief too – that finally I can proclaim to the whole wide world – that you are the one I am marrying...that you are the one...whom I love so deeply and will cherish all my life..."
That makes them both pull up from their intense emotional hug and they share a super intense emotional eyelock with a nod caressing each other's cheeks and just as they are about to lean in to kiss one another deep – they hear Akash's knock on the door as he says that Payal+ Him are set to go as well – now!
That from Akash makes Arnav and Khushi lean in forward swiftly for a brief ten second intense emotional kiss – before they finally hug one another hard for the next ten seconds – and then make their way outta the room hand in hand.
Akash and Payal grin at the sight up in front of them as they spot Arnav and Khushi stepping out hand in hand and they grin collectively as they say pretty much in unison exchanging a knowing look with one another – " well...well...well...don't the two of you look all calm and composed...for someone's all set to walk into the tides of chaos on the out....but we know this isn't the calm before the storm...or something...I mean...we are both rest assured just like everyone else of our loved ones...that no matter the storm on thr out...the two of you...will remain..calm..and strong...through it all...within...,"and they pause to just sidehug – Arnav and Khushi – at that in a gesture of their solid support as they add further – " we got you back....we all do..."
Arnav sidehugs his twin tight – " thanks mere bhai..."
Khushi sidehugs Payal tight – " thank you...Payal.."
And that makes Akash+ Payal roll their eyes at the two obviously as they say – " take the thanks...back...now...right very now..,"And they do say so in such a comic way that the four of them end up sharing a warm chuckle at that!
And seconds later – as they all nod in gesture to one another – determined and ready to head out now – wheeling their stuff behind in tow – Arnav holds his hand out to Khushi and as she laces it into his he asks – " Ready...my love??"
And Khushi can only clutch on his hand back tight taking a deep breathe as she whispers – " ready...my love...godammit...about time...let the tides begin..,"and as she says that out loud exchanging a determined smile with Arnav – she feels her insides breathe in the light and wave off cemented composure all through within!
And what does Arnav do as he spots the above expression+ vibe engulf his Fiore's frame? He obviously just holds onto her hand tighter and kisses on her hand briefly and intensely as he whispers locking his gaze with her's – " Let the tides...begin...indeed..."
And both Arnav and Khushi finally step out his studio hand in hand with Akash and Payal right behind them – all set to take on the worldly tidal waves – Ahead! For in their hearts and mind – they both knew and believed with great conviction that they were more than just ready to Surf Their way through Any+ Every Version off these Waves – Hand in Hand – Indeed!
......................................
TADAAAAAAAA!
How was That Guysssssssss ?????????? I really hope you all enjoyed reading this update through its various scene flows...also...once again gotta say this...no shoes at me for stopping there...just had to for the build up...(winks)
Next Update : Will be doing my very best to get up an update as a follow through to this bit – tomorrow night!
Thanks, Guys, for all the Support and your Precious Time to my Work!
Much Love*Gratitude
Always
Prachi
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