ARSHI FF - HIT WICKET MY HEART 3.0 - Take 44-Pg.51(10.5.22)

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Posted: 3 years ago
#1

HIT WICKET MY HEART 3.0

Index

Brief and Introduction - Page 1

Faces to the Characters - Page 1

Take 1 - Gotta Stay Away from Cricketer's - page 1

Take 1.1 - Up for Some Me Time - page 1

Take 2 - The Fast Track Lane - page 2

Take 2.1 - Candy Floss - page 2

Take 3 - Doodle - page 3

Take 4 - First Name Basis - page 4

Take 5 - Nets - page 5

Take 6 - The Eye - page 6

Take 7 - Stumps - page 6

Take 8 - Bridge-D - page 7

Take 9 - Long Island Ice Tea - page 8

Take 10 - Orchestra - page 9

Take 11 - The Gaming Voltage - page 9

Take 11.1 - The Voltage of Emotions - page 9

Take 12 - Short - Circuit - page 10

Take 13 - Flamed - page 11

Take 14 - Steamed - page 12

Take 15 - Whirlwind - page 12

Take 16 - Call me the Whirlwind that Lasts - page 13

Take 17 - Coconut & Marshmallows - page 14

Take 18 - My Natural Habitat - page 14

Take 19 - Smashed - page 15

Take 20 - The Band-Aid Bridge - page 15

Take 21 - Mi Familia - page 16

Take 21.1 - It Doesn't Feel Right - page 17

Take 22 - The Restless Salt & Sour Candy - page 17

Take 23 - Shepherd's Pie - page 18

Take 24 - I Wont Give Up On You.... Dammit! - page 18

Take 25 - Sacred - page 19

Take 26 - Jitters - page 19

Take 26.1 - The Waves Of Biological Emotion - page 21

Take 26.2 - My Poignant Homage - page 22

TAKE 27 - The Champagne Fizz - page 22

TAKE 27.1 - Reflections - page 23

TAKE 27.2 - Crystals - page 24

TAKE 28 - The Paedistrian Crossing - page 25

Take 28.1 - Infinite+Nth - page 25

TAKE 29 - Open Arms - page 25

TAKE 29.1 - The Tunnel of Endless Ease - page 25

Take 30 - HeartStrings - page 26

TAKE 30.1 - Melting Pot - page 27

PreContext to Take 31 - page 28

TAKE 31 - The Ripple Effect - page 28

TAKE 31.1 - CrossRoads - page 29

TAKE 32 - Leap of Faith - page 30

TAKE 32.1 - Leap of Faith 2.0 - page 31

TAKE 33 - Ties of Blood - page 31

TAKE 34 - ABBU - page 32

TAKE 34.1 - Better Late Than Never - page 33

TAKE 35 - The Lost Rhythms - page 34

Precontext to Take 36 - page 35

TAKE 36 - Hourglass - page 35

TAKE 37 - Tranquil - page 37

TAKE 38 - Stir up to the Storm - page 37

TAKE 39 - WHIPPED - page 38

TAKE 39.1 - Wrecked - page 39

TAKE 39.2 - page 40

TAKE 39.3 - PAGE 40

TAKE 39.4 - page 41

TAKE 40 - PAGE 42

Take 40.1 - page 43

Take 41 - page 45

Take 41.1 - page 46

TAKE 41.2 - PAGE 47

Take 41.3 - page 48

Take 42 - page 49

Take 42.1 - page 49

Take 43 - page 50

Take 44 - page 51

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

BRIEF

When – Indian Cricket Team’s extremely popular and Ace Spinner/Bowling All Rounder – Arnav Singh Raizada meets the strong independent, peppy, animation artist – Khushi Jones – in the heart of Central London on his tour of England – the two of them had no idea that this was Fate’s way off nudging their path’s towards the road – where in their Lives would never be the Same – Again!

He Believes in Love! She most surely has her faith shaken in the very institution of love – given her experience andthe vulnerable family secret that she harbours in the deep corners of her Heart!

And yet as their different worlds narrow into a common point of convergence for a little short while – the comfortable factor of their connection is too evident to blatantly ignore!

Will the two have it in them to nurture their comfortable bond and mark their journey towards one another through their differences and realise that sometimes all that Matters is the Love that has the Power to Hit Wicket The Heart????

Edited by LifeDramaFicTns - 2 years ago

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mysticltales111 thumbnail
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Posted: 3 years ago
#2

HIT WICKET MY HEART 3.0

Hello to you all.

SURPRISEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!

OK - So I literally Just had this Thought with regards to the Plot/Character Sketch for Hit Wicket 3.0 - in the Bylanes of My Head on like Sunday afternoon and ever since the minute it spurred in...Its Like my Fingers were like dying to pen the Introduction Down!!!! WINKS

SO Hence with a very Happy Delighted Heart I Would Like to Bring to you today the Introduction of HitWicketMyHeart 3.0 !!! I MEAN WHAT TO DO YA GUYS - Somewhere I am unable to get myself pulled away from writing the HW series given my love for Cricket perhaps??

SO Yup.

A very Warm Welcome to Hit Wicket My Heart 3.0❤

Please note - This is a StandAlone Story( with a New Plot and storyline revolving around Cricket)


Please note - This is a StandAlone Story( with a New Plot and storyline revolving around Cricket).It is not a Continuation from Hit Wicket 1.0 or 2.0!!

I hope you enjoy Investing your Precious time into the Fictional Tales off my Head.😊😊😇❤

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

Copyright Disclaimer :

Text Copyright©mysticaltales11111™2020

The Moral Right of the Author has been asserted. All Rights Reserved. This Story is published subject to the condition that it shall not be reproduced or transmitted/distributed in whole or in part, in any manner, whether in electronic or in hard copy, without the written consent of the author, and any infringement of this is a violation of Copyright Law.

All Rights Reserved® mysticaltales11111

...........

INTRODUCTION

When - Indian Cricket Team's extremely popular and Ace Spinner/Bowling All Rounder - Arnav Singh Raizada meets the strong independent, peppy, animation artist - Khushi Jones - in the heart of Central London on his tour of England - the two of them had no idea that this was Fate's way off nudging their path's towards the road - where in their Lives would never be the Same - Again!

He Believes in Love! She most surely has her faith shaken in the very institution of Love - given her experience and the vulnerable family secret that she harbors in the deep corners of her Heart!

And yet as their different worlds narrow into a common point of convergence for a little short while - the comfortable factor of their connection is too evident to blatantly ignore! Will the two - have it in them to nurture their comfortable bond and mark their journey towards one another through their differences and realize that sometimes all that Matters is the Love that has the Power to Hit Wicket The Heart????

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

THE CHARACTERS

MEET – ARNAV SINGH RAIZADA

Arnav Singh Raizada – 25 years 3 months of age – is the Ace Spinner/Bowling All Rounder of the Indian Cricket Team. He is extremely popular within the Men in Blue unit and the cricketing fans in the country of India – given his dapper, sauve, stylish self is accompanied by truckloads off enigma and charm and a friendly demeanour that truly makes him a happy go lucky - Jovial Bloke!

Professionally, he has been playing and bowling for India ever since the age off 16 in the Domestic Set Up – and was the youngest player in the country to make his Debut for India internationally at the age of 18 years 80 days(7 years ago in 2012) in the T20 format of the game – impressing one and all with his – first ever five wicket Haul in the very first match that he played + clinching a total of 12 wickets in that 3 T20 Match Series Against England. After his enthralling outing with the ball in the T20's as an ace right arm – off break spinner, he was given the opportunity to debut for India in the Tests and ODI Levels respectively in the very same year!

And as his 10 wicket haul in the 2 innings of his first ever test match for the country was followed by the figures off 25 wickets in his first ever 4 match test series – his Test Debut for India was touted out to be a Dream One – back in the Day! And further on as he also went on to prove his mettle once again with the ball in the immediate next ODI series – by clinching his first ever Hatrick in the first ODI match he ever played accompanied by amazing wicket figures + bowling economy – it was a undoubted collective statement in the cricket world back in India in those days that Arnav Singh Raizada had arrived with His Ball with a Golden Arm of Spin on the Global stage and How – touting his debut in all three formats of the games to be that off what Dreams were made Off!

Initially he had just started off as the Ace Spinner for India but within a year – his dedication towards working and improving his skills with the bat – led him to become a Bankable Strong All-Rounder – that every Skipper dreamed off having in their Unit in every format of the Game and ever since then there has been no looking back for him in terms of his cricketing journey for India.

Recently a couple of months ago – he became the fastest player in International Test Cricket to claim 300 wickets to his Name + be the only Bowling All Rounder from India who has 7500 International runs to his name with the bat too – combined in all three formats of the Game – making him every official selector's + Coaches+ Skipper's bankable selection in the Playing 11 – in every format on the Game.

He enjoys an amazing bond with his team-mates both on and off pitch and has an extremely close equation with his Skipper and Vice-Captain and the Star Openers – on the personal front.

His Family Background: He emerges from an affluent family of reputed and famous Doctors in the Country – living in Delhi! His father – Arjun Singh Raizada is the nations renowned cardiologist and his mother – Raima Singh Raizada is a renowned Neurologist. After years of experience in the medical field – his parents – incepted Multiple Specialities Hospital Chain all over the country! He has an elder sister – Anjali(two year older to him) and an unidentical twin brother – Akash! His elder sister is a Gynaecologist and his Unidentical Twin Brother Akash – manages the business aspect of The Hospital's owned and run by the Raizadas.Lucky for him – his parents supported his career dreams of wanting to focus on the bat and ball more – than his books – and encouraged him to follow his dreams – and it is because of their collective support as a Family - that he has been able to achieve the milestones in his Career!

Now coming to the matters of the Heart – he has had only one steady relationship in the past which lasted for over a year until his girlfriend gave up on them - feeling the long distance bit – taking it's toll on her! He considers himself truly lucky that the breakup happened – before he fell deeply in love with her.And after this incident about two years ago – he chose to stay away from steady relationships for a while and has been single ever since. He does not believe in – indulging in some casual/ no strings attached affairs because deep down he is an emotional man and getting involved with someone just for the physical pleasure aspect of it is surely not his cup of Tea.

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

MEET KHUSHI JONES

Khushi Jones - 24 years of age – is a strong, independent, beautiful, charismatic, and a peppy individual who is a Britisher by birth. She is extremely intelligent and dreams of being a Digital Animator with the aim off making her mark in the field of Animation and Digital Animated Content/VideoGames – eventually.

She has finished her graduation degree in the same by the age off 22 and for the last two years she has been working numerous jobs to save up for her Masters in Animation – not wanting to burden her mother financially with the cost of the same! Her mother – Alice Jones is her best buddy too and they enjoy a very strong bond!!

She is born and brought up by her mother (Alice Jones)single -handedly with the loving support of her maternal grandparents(who live in Derby, UK) on and off – in West Acton,London - which is minutes away from the Heart of Central London. Her mother Alice Jones is a Doctor – a senior physiotherapist on board with the England National Cricket Team.

Coming to the Matters of the Heart – Until the age of 22 years of Age – she had just casually dated on and off briefly because she was too busy with her education and part time jobs otherwise to get into a steady relationship! However – about a Year ago – all of that changed as she met the England Crickets Team – Star Opener and they started Dating given that the chemistry+spark was obvious in between of them! However – just when she was thinking that things were going smooth in between them after a Year of Dating and she felt like she trusted him enough and was on the verge of falling in love with him – she finally talked to him about that one Family Secret that she otherwise guards very strongly which only a few close friends and family are aware off – only to find out the Horrific truth that – Yes he Liked Her – But he Didn't Like Her Enough to Stand by her given The Vulnerable Secret of Her Existence was going to be a issue for him eventually if it ever came to light due to the bit that he was a public cricketing figure in the country!

At the present moment – it was this break up that she was moving on from – with her belief kind of shaken once again in the very institution and existence of Love!!

And oh – what was that Vulnerable Secret of her Existence that she closely guarded?

It was with regards to the identity of her Father.For mostly outside to the World – her father had passed in an accident before she was born within the months of her parent's marriage, an understood reason why her mother eventually moved from Derby to London to start afresh!

But the truth really was – that her father was very much alive and even though it was Love in between of her parents that had led to her coming into the world – her mother was technically never married to Him given that they could never some what come to terms with bridging the gap of different countries and cultures and wanting different things from Life!!

PRE Context : Alice Jones(her mother) had met an young dashing popular cricketer from the Pakistan Cricket team(Rehaan Khan) while he was travelling to the UK on a Two Month Long Tour which eventually led to them getting into a Long distance relationship for a Year or So Back in the Day! At that point in time - Rehaan was madly in love with Alice and wanted to marry her and quit her life in London and move with him back home for good because he was facing a lot of pressures of arranged marriage back at home amidst his family! However – Alice wanted him to wait – because she wanted to finish her medical degrees first before shifting her entire life around so that she could pursue her medical career eventually – irrespective of the part of the world she would be in.

In came in the differences then – for Rehaan did confide in her that even though he could convince his family that he was madly in love with a Britisher and wanted to settle down with just Her – he wasn't sure if he could convince them or support her for wanting to pursue her dream of working alongside a travelling sports unit as a sports physiotherapist! Alice felt like she couldn't give up her entire life for Him – if Rehaan wasn't ready to support her for The Dream that was So Important to her! And as the differences seeped in – it eventually led to their aching Break Up – and they parted ways. Both of them were heartbroken at their very ends – but due to family pressure Rehaan back home finally succumbed into a rushed arranged marriage and Alice continued to balm her heart otherwise continuing with her life as it was Prior to Rehaan coming along.

But as Fate would have it – it was just about eight weeks after their massive row and break up that Alice found out that she was Pregnant with their Child. But given the fact that Rehaan was already Two Weeks married by then – she never got in touch with him about the same but decided to bring their child to Life nonetheless.Luckily her parents supported her and she moved from the quitter town of Derby to London to continue studying and eventually working towards her Professional Dream – side by side – single handedly raising her daughter Khushi – who was the apple of her Eye.

Why she named her Khushi? Despite being a Britisher? It was because of the fact that Rehaan had once confided in her in some vulnerable emotional moments – that he loved the Name- Khushi and if he ever had a daughter – that was what he would love to name Her.

So Now – Coming To the Present – Decades later - Rehaan Khan(Khushi's father) has no idea of her existence still and was currently living his settled life both personally and professionally back in Pakistan and was now the head of the Pakistan Cricket Board. His Son – Raahil Khan(technically Khushi's half brother) also played cricket nationally for the Pakistan National Cricker Team!

And well – even though her mother had hidden this secret from her too only confiding it to her when she had turned 18 – Khushi did not have it in her heart to hold it against her once she had heard her reasons for the Same for even though her Father was technically alive out there in the world – for her – all her life it had been her Mother who had played both those roles lovingly and diligently!

And even though Khushi knew – that the secret of her existence was vulnerable and controversial for she was technically an illegitimate child – deep down in her heart – she would often wonder to herself – What was Her fault in all of This ?? And after everything she had experienced off late – she didn't know if there was anyone out there who would Like/Love her enough to stand by her – given the controversial vulnerable secret of her existence!

But nonetheless – she was a Fighter and a Strong individual just like her mother was and she lived her days with a determined, righteous approach towards Life.

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

In The Gameboard of Destiny by a sudden unexpected roll of dice – a chanced encounter in the Heart of London – leads to a conversation that becomes an instant comfortable bubble in between of Arnav and Khushi – and their different Worlds and Lives converge cross paths for a short while!

Will Arnav and Khushi – have it in them to nurture their connection through technology and virtuality to see if it could translate into something substantial? Will they both be able to make their ways towards one another through their differences and realise that sometimes all that Matters is the Love that has the Power to Hit Wicket The Heart????

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

Tadaaaaaaa!!!!!

OK Guys what do you think of the Plot? And the Banner?? WOULD Love to Hear your feedback on the same!

Let me know what you all think of the Plot.

Thanks for all the time and support to my work.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

.....

coderlady thumbnail
Posted: 3 years ago
#3

Khushi had dated Arnav or another player? Their history sounds similar.

mysticltales111 thumbnail
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Posted: 3 years ago
#4

another cricket player! :) the opening batsmen of the England Cricket Team.😉

Originally posted by: coderlady

Khushi had dated Arnav or another player? Their history sounds similar.

mysticltales111 thumbnail
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Posted: 3 years ago
#5

Helloo Everyone..

So Yup!

Here I am with The Faces to the Characters Picture Note and this time I wanted to introduce the pictures to the character faces before the Story actually begins so that as the Character is mentioned - it's easier to Relate a Face to it!

LETS Begin...

❤❤❤HIT WICKET MY HEART 3.0❤❤❤

Character Faces

FACES from Arnav's Side of the World

ARNAV SINGH RAIZADA ( Ace BOWLING All Rounder of the country and has been ranked in the TOP 5 ICC Rankings for All Rounders - for the last three years back to back)

ARNAV SINGH RAIZADA ( Ace BOWLING All Rounder of the country and has been ranked in the TOP 5 ICC Rankings for All Rounders - for the last three years back to back)

ARNAV'S Parents ( Arjun and Raima Singh Raizada - who are both renowned Doctors in the Country)

ARNAV'S Parents ( Arjun and Raima Singh Raizada - who are both renowned Doctors in the Country)

His Twin Brother - Akash Singh Raizada( who is Younger to Him by a Minute)

 His Elder Sister - Anjali Khurana( is a Gynaecologist) + Her Husband - Ravi Khurana ( Who is a Businessman and is the owner of a Successful Private Charter Airlines in the Country)

His Elder Sister - Anjali Khurana( is a Gynaecologist) + Her Husband - Ravi Khurana ( Who is a Businessman and is the owner of a Successful Private Charter Airlines in the Country)

 His Elder Sister - Anjali Khurana( is a Gynaecologist) + Her Husband - Ravi Khurana ( Who is a Businessman and is the owner of a Successful Private Charter Airlines in the Country)

Now Coming to His Immediate Friend Circle from the National Unit

Raunak Verma ( Star Opener for INDIA/ Men In Blue)

Sameer Mehra ( Star opener alongside Raunak who opens for India)

Sameer Mehra ( Star opener alongside Raunak who opens for India)

Sameer Mehra ( Star opener alongside Raunak who opens for India)

Ved Khanna ( The Vice Captain of Team and He bats At No 3)

Ved Khanna ( The Vice Captain of Team and He bats At No 3)

Captain Dev ( Returns for his Role as Current Skipper)

Captain Dev ( Returns for his Role as Current Skipper)

Daksh Malhotra - Ace Pace Bowler of the Team

Daksh Malhotra - Ace Pace Bowler of the Team

ARNAV'S Ex - Roohi Arora ( who is a Famous New Age Female Lead Singer in the Music/Bollywood Industry)

ARNAV'S Ex - Roohi Arora ( who is a Famous New Age Female Lead Singer in the Music/Bollywood Industry)

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FACES from Khushi's Side of the World

Khushi Jones ( Strong, Independent, Peppy - Animation Artist who lives in London)

Alice Jones ( Her Mother) - who has brought her up Single Handedly and is also a Doctor and a Senior Physiotherapist on board with the England National Cricket Team

Alice Jones ( Her Mother) - who has brought her up Single Handedly and is also a Doctor and a Senior Physiotherapist on board with the England National Cricket Team

Alice Jones ( Her Mother) - who has brought her up Single Handedly and is also a Doctor and a Senior Physiotherapist on board with the England National Cricket Team

Her Maternal Grandparents - Madison & Alexander Jones have helped their daughter raise Khushi to be the Strong - independent individual that she is!

Her Maternal Grandparents - Madison & Alexander Jones have helped their daughter raise Khushi to be the Strong - independent individual that she is!

N

ow Coming to Her Group of Close Friends
(Childhood/school friends who have stuck by each other through the years in a Tight Group of 5 including Khushi)

Maya Kapoor

Maya Kapoor

SARAH KHAN

Brian Smith ( He and Sarah are also Dating and are a Steady Couple)

Brian Smith ( He and Sarah are also Dating and are a Steady Couple)

Jack Willams ( Secretly Crushes on Maya but he knows for her - he is just a best buddy)

Jack Willams ( Secretly Crushes on Maya but he knows for her - he is just a best buddy)

Jack Willams ( Secretly Crushes on Maya but he knows for her - he is just a best buddy)

KHUSHI'S Ex- Robert Wilson ( Star opener for the England Cricket Team )

A couple of Faces From the World - which is Still Oblivious to Khushis existence and their Connection

A couple of Faces From the World - which is Still Oblivious to Khushis existence and their Connection

Khushi's Biological Dad ( Rehaan Khan) who is unaware of her Existence! FAMOUS cricketer in Pakistan from the olden days + The Current Head/ President of the Pakistan Cricket Board)

Khushi's Biological Dad ( Rehaan Khan) who is unaware of her Existence! FAMOUS cricketer in Pakistan from the olden days + The Current Head/ President of the Pakistan Cricket Board)

Khushi's Half Brother - Raahil Khan( Plays Cricket for Pakistan) + His Lady Love - Noor

Khushi's Half Brother - Raahil Khan( Plays Cricket for Pakistan) + His Lady Love - Noor

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

TADAA!

SO Yup.. Guys..These were the Faces to the Characters that I wanted to Introduce for Now! Did you all like the alignment of the Characters with these Respective Faces??

Will be waiting to know your thoughts on the Same - as always!

I shall see you all soon with the First Written Update Mostly!

Until then - Take Care and Stay Safe!

Much Love

Always

Prachi

mysticltales111 thumbnail
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Posted: 3 years ago
#6

Hellooooo Guysssssssss....

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

And Yup.

I am delighted to say that Here I am – with the very first written update of Hit Wicket My Heart 3.0.




Word Count – Short/Medium Length – 5.2K 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.

Please also scroll Up the Index to see the Character faces in the Post Prior before you proceed so that you are able to relate a face to the Characters in the Update.

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

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

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

Copyright Disclaimer :

Text Copyright©mysticaltales11111™2020

The Moral Right of the Author has been asserted. All Rights Reserved. This Story is published subject to the condition that it shall not be reproduced or transmitted/distributed in whole or in part, in any manner, whether in electronic or in hard copy, without the written consent of the author, and any infringement of this is a violation of Copyright Law.

All Rights Reserved® mysticaltales11111

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

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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.

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

TAKE 1 – Gotta Stay AWAY From Cricketer's

West Acton,London

16th Feburary, 2019

Time : 8:15 AM

Khushi's POV

I hate that my easy breezy Good Morning – is minutes away from shifting its gears and turning into a Conflicted-Deep in Thought One.

Correction.

Not Minutes away.

Seconds- Away.

And to think – that I thought to myself as I woke up 90 minutes ago – that just about nothing could somber up my mood at all today, given that I woke up with this innate sense of achievement and a grin up my face, feeling all proud of myself. For today – was my first official day of this little break that I had planned to take for myself after Two Gruelling Years of Hard Work on my Job as a Graphic Designer for a Digital Marketing firm – in order to Save Up for my Master's degree in Animation from the Royal College of Arts.(The Degree which begins in August – later this year. And the fact that I had been able to achieve the target on my own well in time like months in advance – without taking any help from Mum on this in anyway whatsoever – was really making me feel all accomplished within on another level – altogether.)

But.

Apparently – I was wrong about the former presumption, for I am surely not in the mood to Grin at my very own reflection right now. I also fight back my sigh. I do not want it to reflect in my tone in anyway.Plus – Now that I think of it – it's totally my fault that I am in the middle of this situation anyway.

Why?

Because I could have totally just ignored this very Call in the first place. Just like I had ignored His Five Missed Calls from last night too and all the other calls that he has made to me in the last week(thrice every day).

Oh Just - Why did I have to even pick up his Call?

*Point to be Noted – In my humble opinion – I do think it's natural to feel a little startled when one is greeted with an string of calls from One's Ex.(The Ex – that you were exclusively dating for one whole year until he decided to call it Quits) *

Also on that note – He is totally supposed to head out for Nets Practice any minute now. (I know – because Mum's left for work – early this morning – already). So why couldn't he just Focus on Cricket and his job and let me focus on Mine?

Mum's only just returned from West Indies a week ago with the England National Cricket Unit – after a long tour and after a short break for all – they are now regrouping and gearing for practice because India's just come in for a Long Cricketing Tour. And because Mum's their Head Physio – she's totally going to be jamm packed with her work alongside her medical team – to make sure – that all the players have recouped from the physical stress of hectic play prior and are set for the next hectic play schedule. She's actually always working irrespective of the Play schedule anyway – because there is so much medical/fitness/physio stuff that keeps going on – behind the curtains.

" hello...you there?? K – can you hear me?" – comes Rob's deep voice pulling me out of my Startled Stuper.

I flip my hand through my hair and lean against the wall next to the counter off the washroom(that I had excused myself to) – as I eye my reflection in the mirror upfront and find my lips now twitched into a tight conflicted line.

"Yeah...I'm here...I can hear you...and you are calling because?," I ask getting straight to the point sure that he could sense the curtness in my tone.

" Because I want to talk to you. Isn't it obvious because of the way I'v been calling you ever since I have returned.Why didn't you take my calls last night – K or in the week prior...??,"comes his reply in the form of an inquisitive question.

Really?

He wants to talk to me?

Why?

What's left to say?

I answer curtly – "really? and isn't it obvious that perhaps I do not wish to talk to you at all given that I'v not responded to those previous calls. Please note – that the only reason why I picked up the phone just now is because – well Mum works with you Robert...and that's not going to change...so yeah..."

He sighs and answers – " K – please...cut the curtness will you? how am I going to be able to talk to you otherwise??we need to talk.."

I reply – "I think differently Robert...I do not think we need to talk about anything...or more say – I am sure that I do not have anything left to say to you at my end...and last I checked... perhaps...so do you....You wanted Out...right? it's done...it's over...so why are you calling me now???"

It's been two months since We Broke Up. (Right before he left for the West Indies Tour). It's been two months since I last saw him or even spoke to Him. Plus Never in my Life – would I ever want him to know that his Sudden Way of breaking up with me – after I confided my vulnerable secret to him – had shaken and shocked me in so many ways.

That's just for me to Know.

He cannot Know.Ever. (Which is the reason – that the only reaction I could give him when he told me – he wanted Out back then was a slight stunned Nod of My Head accompanied by a Composed Silence – before I finally walked away)

" Because even though it's been two months – the fact that you reacted the way you did giving me just a Silent Nod and a Stunned Silence after - before finally walking away – is something that I haven't been able to gump down at all K.Everytime I look back at it in my head – the more your composed silent reaction continues to puzzles me...,"he answers.

Really?

My Silence Puzzles Him?

What did he want?

Did he want me Shout?? Or Create a Scene?Or Fight? Or Scream My Lungs Out – with words like – How Could You do This To Me? Why won't you Stand by Me? I thought we were heading somewhere after Dating Exclusively for One Year?

I answer – "well the fact that you are still puzzled about my reaction is your problem Robert..not mine at all.."

"ok..for starters....K- Stop calling me Robert..please? it's weird...I am Rob to you..no matter what..are we really going to act like we never knew each other? That's crazy...ok wait..maybe..let's meet up..face to face...and talk this out perhaps?,"he insists now.

I answer curtly – "and you need to stop calling me K – Robert...I am Khushi to you..and about the latter – I think it's for the best – that we just simply ignore what used to be...and no..we most surely don't need to meet up...we were just a mistake..for each other..and it's better to just accept that...."

"Don't...don't say that – K...it wasn't a Mistake...we were not a Mistake...it's Just...Gosh...how do I say this again...,"he pauses and sighs as if he were finding words to explain – "all this time away..on the tour...I'v just thought a lot about the way I ended things and I am not proud off the way I acted and...I did think of calling you so many times....prior too..but then I thought it would be better to address the issue when I return..so that we could meet and talk....look...K... I'v been having a hard time looking at your Mum in the eye too....I just feel like I owe you a better explanation..plus an apology...over how abruptly I ended things...your Mum...she surely knows it all.. but she seems all normal around me as always as if nothing happened...plus look...I just feel guilty that I have hurt you...and..."

Ok.

So this is about Guilt.

I cut him short – "that's surely because – Mum's always believed in keeping the professional/personal front – different Robert plus you do not owe me any explanations anymore...I do not want an explanation or even an apology......"

"But I feel like...I do owe you an apology for sure -K. I acknowledge the fact again that I am not proud of the abrupt ways in which I ended things...," he answers sincerely.

I don't know what to say to that.

I stay silent- for the next twenty seconds.

"Again...you are silent...K – look know what..just meet me? shout at me? scream at me perhaps? express your anger out at me at the least??,"he says next - out of the blue.

I admit honestly – " this is absurd...what if I don't want to Robert...as in I don't even want to scream at you....I just do not have anything left to say to you anymore...please just understand that...."

" K -we both know – that you are pretty reserved about expressing and talking about your feelings – but still at the moment ...give me anything but..Silence on that accord..please....,"he insists sincerely.

Well he is right about that. I am an Odd Mix of an Extrovert + Introvert. I am generally extrovert in mixing up with people around when it comes to normal conversations and extremely introvert when it comes to talking about what I feel – openly – it's like I so very often retreat to my Shell when it comes to that.( I am only completely comfortable about talking about my feelings openly with Mum, Grandpa, Grams and My four closest friends – and I have known them practically all my Life.No one else has been able to emotionally cross over to that Inner circle in my Heart to make me want to talk about my feelings to them - openly.)

Hence - I do acknowledge wholeheartedly that from other's perspective - I surely do come across as emotionally challenged in some ways.(The Reason – why all I can still give him right now is Silence – yet again)

And there's no Wrong in this Perception anyway.

It's True.

Robert was almost on the verge of crossing over to that Inner Circle actually – a reason why I wanted to open up and confide my deepest vulnerable secret to him.And look what happened? It just reaffirmed my gut that I just need to keep my Guards up – with regards to everyone else.

"K – please...talk...look...we were great friends always too...can't we atleast come to cordial terms for the sake of that??or even be just friends again???maybe that's the closure we need....,"he asks.

Is He Crazy? Did a Ball knock his Neurons in the Head or something to even Suggest the same? Doesn't he know – that this was what kind off threw me off guard the most? Because - I always thought we got along great as amazing friends too – and that when he would hear what I had to tell him – he would at the least first ask out of genuine concern how had I been holding up all these years after knowing the truth?and probably then Freak Out a tad bit Little.But - Never in my wildest imaginations – I had imagined what His Reaction in Reality had Been.

"K – please – say something...anything...,"he probes.

I admit honestly – "unfortunately – the answer to the latter would be No. I do not think I want to be friends again.Ever. And the only closure I need is the one I gave myself by walking away Robert...so please..lets just not talk about this anymore...and only for Mum's sake – I am obviously going to act like my polite cordial self – whenever I see you around under cricketing circumstances...she's your team's head physio doc..afterall..and I do not want to make things awkward on the professional front..for either of you...alright??and she knows that...."

"I know that too K....,"he chips in immediately.

I take a deep breathe. "I need to go now..do me a favour please? just don't call me again...alright?"

And before he could say anything to that – I hang Up and dump my phone back in the pocket of my denims and begin to wash my face.The minute I finish and am drying my face with a tissue – I see Maya walk in and she asks puzzled – " Khushi...you..okay?whats taking you this long?who was it on the call early morning anyway? Was it important? We know aunt's at work already...you are on the first day of your official break..so couldn't be a early morning email/work call...so we all can't help but wonder the reason why you would ditch your piping hot hash browns/bagel and cheese and hot chocolate..."

Maya's one of my best friends. We are a close group of Five and have known each other since DayCare/Kindergarten.We were in the same high school and we even attended the same university for our graduation even though we were all on different courses. I am obviously very close to Maya and Sarah.They are like my soul sisters. And – Jack and Brian are like my brothers too. And we all live around each other too – within 500 meters distance in West Acton, London.

And we were all also - in the middle of our once a week breakfast at McDonalds rituals – when Rob Called.

I smile a little on reflex as I answer – " I will fill you in over it after breakfast...alright M? for yup – the mention of my hash browns/nagel and cheese/ hot chocolate just reignited my appetite....plus...Sarah, Jack and Brian are going to question too...so I might as well tell you all about it together..."

She chuckles at that and Nods.

And we head out – and I smile naturally as I spot – Sarah+ Brian+Jack – wave at us with a gesture to hurry and join them back.

How Could I not Naturally Smile this way and acknowledge the Blessings my Friends Were?

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

Authors Note – Inserting Pictures of Khushi's Home – in West Acton, London

Authors Note – Inserting Pictures of Khushi's Home – in West Acton, London

The Enterance Foyer leading too

The Enterance Foyer leading too

The Backyard Behind

The Backyard Behind

The Backyard Behind

Some Formal/ Informal Living Spaces

Some Formal/ Informal Living Spaces

Some Formal/ Informal Living Spaces

TV Room

TV Room

Reading Corner in the TV Room

Reading Corner in the TV Room

Her Mother's ( Alice Jones) - Room

Her Mother's ( Alice Jones) - Room

Her Mother's ( Alice Jones) - Room

Her Mothers Study

Her Mothers Study

Khushi's Room

A little Cozy Nook in her Room on the Opposite Side where in she Reads or works on creating her rough drafts of her Animation Work/Art/Graphics

A little Cozy Nook in her Room on the Opposite Side where in she Reads or works on creating her rough drafts of her Animation Work/Art/Graphics

A little Cozy Nook in her Room on the Opposite Side where in she Reads or works on creating her rough drafts of her Animation Work/Art/Graphics

Khushi's Study ( Where in she spends Hours if she has to proceed with full on Animation/Graphics Projects - Her Creative Haven)

Khushi's Study ( Where in she spends Hours if she has to proceed with full on Animation/Graphics Projects - Her Creative Haven)

.

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

One Hour Later

9:15 AM

Khushi's Home

In the Backyard – Outdoor Seating Area




Khushi's POV Continues

Even though – Robert Wilson – is still revolving around the back of my Head – I can't help but chuckle.

And that's only because – of the way – I have just been schooled by Maya,Jack, Brian and Sarah for even picking up his call in the first place.( Just told them about it seven minutes ago as we steeped into Home together and I'v already been schooled for the last five minutes)

We are all fiercely protective about one another. And they obviously Hold a Grudge against him. They'v always stood by me through thick and thin – no matter what. No matter how vulnerable my family secret is. The four of them – know – obviously and so do their parents! Mum talked to them about it – after she told me the truth as I turned 18. (For our parents are a close knit circle of friends too – and by the time – she actually talked to me about it – she felt like she could entrust them with the truth too after knowing them for Years.And she was right. For Nothing Changed in their eyes – actually.)

Sarah takes her seat next to mine and she states narrowing her eyes at me – " why don't you just block his number Khushi? He's such a jerk...what does he think of himself...don't you ever speak to him again...okay?don't chuckle...please...we are serious...you are just starting to feel so much better and are coming to terms with moving on...don't let him – hang around at the back of your head...oh I wish I could just smear his face Black with all my mascara stash..."

I chuckle at that. Sarah is a Make -Up Artist and a Killer One at That. She's studied and mastered the Art of Make-Up – amazingly over the Years. (which is why she often uses Make-Up analogies here and there)

I wink at her playfully only because I do not want her to worry – "oh our poor mascara's..S...why would you want to waste them??"

She chuckles for a second and hugs me tight into her side – " you know what I mean..don't you??"

I nod at her honestly and hug her back – " I won't let him hang around Sarah...I promise...and on the personal front...I surely won't be speaking to him...but if I were to meet him in a professional setting – I surely would have to stick to being cordial for Mum's sake..right?"

Brian rolls his eyes and scoffs taking his seat next to Sarah –lacing his hand in hers adorably making us all share a smile at the sight(They have been steadily Dating for Four Years already now) – " if only – the cricketing fans knew what a jerk + coward our star opener is on a personal level – they would only begin to watch the matches – after he loses his wicket and is declared out....like we do now...if I were to ever audit his financial statements – I'd purposely mess things up for him"(Brian's a Finance/Accounting Guy. His parents run a successful accountancy firm.He's in the middle of completing his MBA and will join in work – full time there – soon.)

I admit with a natural smile – " guys..seriously...stop worrying...I am okay..and am just so grateful for all of you ...I wouldn't know what to do without you...thanks guys.."

Maya takes the other seat next to mine, smacking my arm playfully – " don't you dare – use the word..thank and you together when it comes to us..also I am so angry at him for even trying to suggest the wish of wanting to be friends...know what...I am going to go back to my art studio and smash a couple of my cups thinking it were him for sure... "

I groan as I hug her – " Maya please....not your precious cups...not worth it...if you have a couple which you don't like..give them to me...please..."( Maya's a pottery and sculpting artist. And she is amazing. She actually does small exhibitions with our university and also has a small business from home – wherein she actually handmakes – Sustainable Kitchen+ Dinnerware and it's been an Instant hit within all the Houses within the 5km radius around us)

Jack scoffs taking his seat next to Maya (whom he secretly crushes on.) – " yeah Maya...Khushi is right about that..don't you break your work over him...let's just all kidnap him and have him caged in front of a Lion though – I'll photograph him and have the video of him trembling in fear go viral...and mind you the Lion's gotta be as majestic as the one I snapped in the Kruger National Park..."

We all laugh out loud at that. That's Jack. He's a wildlife photographer + enthusiast.

Sharing all this Laughter with my friends – makes me feel a little bit better on its own.

I pull my friends in a close group hug as I admit – " ok...if I cannot thank you guys..then I do have to say – that I love you all so much....also..Jack..we surely cannot kidnap him though..who will open for England in all formats of the game then...come on – I know you guys love your cricket..."

Brian scoffs – " yes..we do love our cricket..but like I mentioned..we only begin watching now..after he loses his wicket..."

Jack adds – " also come to think off it...at times I think I play better than him too...why is he in the national team again?I mean atleast I haven't been getting out to the same bowler for six years in a row every time I play the team...which is why I say – I play better than him..they should totally take me in - the national unit..."

We all share a warm chuckle at that and I ask them honestly – " but guys..jokes apart...you think its okay to take this little while more to try to get over this grudge? You know Mum says – it's what I gotta work on eventually...and she is right...it does make me feel a tad bit bitter...and I do not want to feel bitter..."

They all pull me in a group hug again as they say in unison – " ofcourse...it's okay..to take your time....just take your time...Khushi..."

And I just hug them hard – and Thank God for them Again.

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

45 Minutes Later

10:00 AM

Khushi's POV Continues

"Yeah..Mum..don't you worry at all alright? I am totally okay...lets talk later when you are home tonight...I know you are at work...yes...everyone just left for their respective days ahead....it's me who is taking these couple of months off ...right Mom?? Okay...hang up now..and get back to work..or I will feel guilty of keeping you away...," I answer and we talk for thirty seconds more – and we hang up.

She obviously called the minute she could – because she spotted Rob shooting her nervous helpless looks before Nets practice began after we hung up while he was making his way back to the locker room. And she magically had a gut intuition that he probably had rung me.

Mum-s and their intuitions are always Bang On Right.

I sit back on the couch in my living room and pick up the photoframe from the side – off Mum and Me – from my graduation day at university – two years ago.( I had completed my BA (Hons)in Animation from Middlesex University which is situated in the heart of London at a short distance off 8 miles away from Home.The daily commute was never an issue - obviously)

I touch the photo – lovingly.

Mum.

Or as I fondly also call her – My Alice In Wonderland – is literally the Best Mum – Ever.And I love her Insane -which is why – sometimes – I can't help but feel my Heart go out to her.

She wouldn't admit it out loud to anyone – but I know – that when it comes to the matters of the Heart – she's still as Lonely as she was – twenty-five years ago.It's been twenty five years since her break up with Dad.(I am 24 already – and yet – in her Heart – I think she's just always held on to the memories of what used to be with Dad)

Her only flaw perhaps was that she couldn't ever get herself to fall in Love again? She's only ever wholeheartedly loved my Biological Dad – who has no idea of my existence – still. She's literally never Dated anyone ever again – in all these Years. Grandpa and Grams have tried to talk to her – but she just wouldn't even Try. She says she's only got time for Work and Me and our small family+ close friends.

And I can't help wonder at times – that even though she loves me Insane and I am the center of her world - am I the reason that she could never really move on? Because I am the living proof of her moments with Dad? If it hadn't been for me – would she have ever moved on? (The answer to the above is something I will never know though – because I obviously don't talk about it to Mum – it will upset her to even know that I have this thought in the deep corners of my heart in the first place)

I keep the Photo Frame aside and close my eyes – leaning back and resting my head back into the Sofa.

And momentarily – deep shades of angst return to Grip My Heart.( A little birdie tells me that you all are already aware of the basics and the bit I am talking about – so no point going into the details again)

I take deep breathe's to process the heavy weight – that Angst brings along with it's flow.

There's a shade off deep Angst for Mum obviously but along with that there's also that shade of angst that I live with the knowledge that even though he is Alive out there and I now know who he is – my Dad has no idea about my existence and I cannot even reach out to Him.

The fact that he might not ever even know – Hurts- obviously.

I can't help but wonder at times – if Dad ever found out – what would his reaction be? Would he just ignore the existence of his illegitimate daughter and live on as usual? Or would he acknowledge me from a distance atleast? And by God's grace if he ever did acknowledge me – would he ask me to call him Dad/or Abbu?

Ah.

So many questions that I shall never have the answer to perhaps?(I think Mum's greatest fear is the former happening ofcourse.As in – if Dad ever found out and just refused to acknowledge my existence? She knows that would just pain me immensely even though I have never known him. And I fear that – it will just cause Mum mountains of pain too – because well she knew him closely enough. A reason why Mum's just always kept this Hidden from Him – perhaps?)

I open my eyes and take out my phone and end up – Googling Dad's name.( It's a good thing he was a famous cricketer back in the day and is the Head of the Pakistan Cricket Board Now – because there tends to be a lot of articles up online with his pictures in it – from both the past and the present)

Mum has no idea that I Google Him quite often though.( I don't talk to her about it because I don't want her to feel like that she wasn't a father figure to me. Because she always has been both my parents to me.)

And why do I Google him anyway?

Out of Curosity?Or an Unsaid powerful call of the Genetics perhaps?

I don't really know.

Hmm.

I click open a recent image off him and enlarge it.It's a nice picture. Maybe I should just print this out and stick it alongside a recent picture of Mum's in my secret scrapbook? The secret scrapbook where in I do have some pictures of them stuck together – for its only in the pages of the scrapbook – I can see both my parents in one frame.

I keep my phone aside as A Tear Leaves My Eye on it's own accord as my Heart begins to ache for Mum – again.

Does she ever wonder – if Dad thinks of her?

Does Dad think of her – ever?

I don't know and I probably won't ever know. But what I do know – that all thi angst related to my birth and the incomplete story of my parents surely has everything to do with the bit of me being emotionally challenged when it comes to the angle of just basic belief in romantic love.A reason why I have always been so emotionally cautious with my Heart.

What is Love?

They say it's a powerful emotion that supersedes everything. I read about it too in novels and books. And It surely must be powerful – for in my reality - if I see from Mum's point of view – she's surely gotta still be in love with Dad in some twisted ways.

But if it's so powerful in reality – why cannot it be Enough? An emotion this powerful should top it all for Real.It should surely supersede everything. But Does it really supersede everything? In Reality?

I don't think so.

Because if it did supersede everything – Love would have been enough for my parents to be able to bridge the gaps of different countries, cultures and wanting different things from Life?

But it wasn't.

Forget about Love.

Even the Emotion of Liking Someone Romantically seems to have certain conditions and glitches to it.( It's safe to come to that conclusion – given everything I just experienced with Rob.He Liked me – but he didn't like me Enough.The memory off him ending things abruptly in between of us returns to my head. And it does come along with the balance of the leftover Hurt – obviously. It was on the morning after - we'd spent the night together at his place because he was scheduled to leave for West Indies the next day and at that point in time in those last two months of us being together – I did feel like I was starting to soften a lot more emotionally to him(even though I never said that to his face) because of the intimate physical ways in which we had started to get involved – a reason why I totally wanted to confide in him because it was important for me to know his reaction to this - before I allowed myself to fall in love with him/or get more emotionally attached.And even though I am still processing the hurt and the grudge – I am kind off glad that it happened in the ways it did. Just in Time – before I was into him deeper – emotionally.)

Hmmmmmmmmmm.

But then – when I look at Sarah and Brian, Grandpa and Grams and so many other happy couples around – I just feel confused – because all I feel is happiness and warmth when I see them together –and then I do feel like maybe – just maybe – the Emotion of Love exists in different shades for some – and maybe it's just Mum and Me who are destined to be the unlucky ones when it comes to Romanticism?

Also - Guys know what ?? Mum's greatest worry after things ended with Rob on my end – was what if Her History repeated itself with me? (She didn't ever voice this to me – but I know because I could read it in her eyes. Both the worry and the relief – when she realised that such a thing did not happen. And I totally understand where she was coming from - because well – Dad was a cricketer/ Robert is too. Mum and Dad dated for a Year before the Break Up Happened and they parted and he gave into an arranged marriage back home and she decided to heal herself and move on with her life here and that was exactly what she was doing when she found out she was expecting me. Rob and me broke up after a year too the only difference being that Mum and Dad ended it mutually and well Rob called it quits and I was dumped. She was 24 then.I am 24 now.So it was obvious that Mum was worried – that what if I found out I was expecting after our Break Up?)

I am kind off guilty for causing her all the Worry though.But I can't help but smile to myself – as I recall the relief in her eyes – when she spotted me complaining about my normal abdominal cramps during my menstruation cycle – the following month – on our usual video call.(Since she was also in West Indies - on the tour.Grandpa and Grams were staying over with me - here at Home until she returned and that is mostly the case when Mum's travelling or if they are not able to come over - I either stay alone - or sometimes over on and off at Maya's or Sarah's or they camp over here with me at Home)

I get up from the sofa and walk to the kitchen to fill myself a glass of water and as I am gulping it down – I do think it's about time that for both Mum and my very own sake – I make a Self Regulation for myself – keeping in mind everything that's happened in the past and the present.

Yup.

Khushi Jones – That's a Good Self- Regulation – Indeed.

My eyes fall on the time – its about 10:30 am now – and given that its my first day of the break and I am all free by myself for the rest of the day – I am totally going to indulge in doing something just for Myself.

For I do have a lot of Angst hanging around still with regards to the thought of Dad and Mum – and I just need to Vent it all Out without worrying anyone in the process, which is why I now need to get ready at the speed of light and head out to that exact place where I need to be for the rest of the Day.

And so – I do just that.

And while I am at it – I keep feeding my new Self Regulation into my Head by saying it out loud – a couple of Times – over and over again.

Oh. What is this new – Self Regulation – if you wonder?

It's - A Self Regulation – To Just Stay At a Arms Distance from Cricketers.(Romantically)- From Now On.

Yup.

That's what it is.

" I just Gotta Stay AWAY From Cricketers".

Because it's now safe to conclude – that they are surely just fated and destined to be Bad News for both Mum and Me!!

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

TADAAAAAA!!

How was The Update Guys?

What are your thoughts on Khushi's introduction?? This time around I wanted to start with Her bit coming in First. Do Let me know your thoughts on the same.

Next Update: Tomorrow Evening.

Until Then – Please take care and Stay Safe guys!! I really hope for a Miracle that with vaccination drives pacing up around the globe – we are able to reach that stage of Herd Immunity – Soon!

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

Much Love

Always

Prachi

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coderlady thumbnail
Posted: 3 years ago
#7

Why does Rob want to talk now? What does he expect even? Did he expect her to be running after him?

coderlady thumbnail
Posted: 3 years ago
#8

Her new self regulation. Well we know how that will end.

mysticltales111 thumbnail
Anniversary 11 Thumbnail Group Promotion 3 Thumbnail + 4
Posted: 3 years ago
#9

Hellooooo Guysssssssss....

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

And Yup here I am - with the next update - introducing Our Male Lead into the Story..(winks)

Word Count - Short/Medium Length - 5.4K 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! 🙏🙏🙏

Please scroll Up the Index to see the Faces to the Characters so that you can relate faces to the Characters as they appear in the Update.

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

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

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

Copyright Disclaimer :

Text Copyright©mysticaltales11111™2020

The Moral Right of the Author has been asserted. All Rights Reserved. This Story is published subject to the condition that it shall not be reproduced or transmitted/distributed in whole or in part, in any manner, whether in electronic or in hard copy, without the written consent of the author, and any infringement of this is a violation of Copyright Law.

All Rights Reserved® mysticaltales11111

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

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TAKE 1.1 - Up for Some ME Time

Same Day - 16th Feburary, 2019

At The Hotel - MayFair - Central London

At The Hotel - MayFair - Central London

9:30 AM

9:30 AM

Arnav's POV

Raunak sips his coffee patiently and shoots Ved and me a relaxed smile as he say's - " guys..you gotta stop worrying...I am sure this will be smooth..we just gotta wait for a couple of minutes more to know the outcome of the same...that's all..."

Ved sips his coffee as he says with a skeptical nod - " yes..should be smooth given that it was discussed prior too...but it's just better to be assured..."

Raunak and me nod in agreement instantly - " Ofcourse - It's just better to be assured...plus I gotta feeling it's going to be smooth too," I add taking the last bite of my omellete trying to put up the mask of patience even though - I just can't wait for Skip to return to the table.

So.

There are times - I do pretend to be a lot more patient on the outside - in comparison to what I actually feel on the Inside. And it's totally an amusing experience for me to curtail or channelise a curtain over my expressions or words(because otherwise I am the Total Extrovert. I express and I say exactly what I feel. I do not mince or filter my words/expressions usually. And my face tends to always just give me away. And everyone who knows me closely enough personally - surely can see through that in perception - anyway.)

Now for example on moments like these it's totally amusing for me to fight back the thought off wanting to go stand right in front of Cap and read his expressions as the conversation unfolds as is. I just really wanna know what's being said on the other line too. Maybe we all should have just asked Cap to talk out loud on the Speaker? Would have saved Raunak, Ved and me - this - continuous turn back to look in Skip's direction spree. ( He had walked to a corner to take the call.)

Ved winks at me as he says continuing to eat the last couple of bites of his breakfast - " ASR, you do know that we know that you are just trying to look patient...you probably just want to go and stand in front of Skip and gauge his expressions..."

Ha.

Ofcourse Ved understands the same - also because its probably what he wants to do himself too. We are quite similar in our extrovert-expressive selves.A reason - why two of us are touted to be the most animated characters with our hearts up our sleeves expressions in the middle of the Game.(Infact the only time I ace masking my expressions - is when I am getting set to Bowl. That's the only time my face/gestures cannot be read by anyone. I like to guard my bowling strategies/mindgames from the opposite side as if I were guarding a precious fortress.)

Plus Everyone in the unit calls me - ASR - mostly which is the short abbreviation for my full name. It's this very acronym of my name that dawns my playing Jersey's too along with my playing no -17.

I chuckle as continue to sip my coffee - " well well..well....one can't lie to his best buddies now can he...so I'd like to say...a yes to that...for that's exactly what I wana do...but...I am just totally trying to ace the pretend to be patient mode in here...just like you are Ved..," I finish with a wink.

And Ved acknowledges the same with a restless nod and we dramatically share a -High-Five.

We all share a warm laugh after. Raunak winks and adds - " guys know what...on a fun note - let's totally do that..."

Ved winks - "really ..shall we??"

Sameer joins us back on the table as he digs into his second serving of the fresh fruit salad - "no..let us not do that boys..we know Skip is in the middle of a serious conversation and just in case this is not going our way - he's going to be in that scary deep in thought frustrated mode - and I am not risking him having bench me from the playing 11 in the first test..I still gotta impress him and Coach Sir with my defensive/block techniques in the nets ..again...,"he finishes with a playful wink and we all share another laugh.

Skip's otherwise mostly as Cool as a Cucumber. But there can be certain moments that can push him off that mode - at times.

I chuckle as I admit - "well I am surely not risking the same at all - so maybe let's just stick to pretending to be patient..."

We all exchange a relaxed nod - as they begin to finish up their breakfast. I'v just finished mine - so I just continue to indulge in sipping my piping hot black coffee. I love it - either piping hot/or Iced.

*Also - a little birdie tells me that you all are already aware of the Basics/Introductries around me both personal and professional - so I am not going to get into too many details with regards to that* - and Just focus on the Present.

So.

We all - as in the Indian National Cricket Team/ or as the country fondly calls us - the Men in Blue unit - arrived in London yesterday.And England's pretty much going to be our Home for the Next 51 days for we are here for a long tour which ends on the 6th of April. Our tour of England includes a 4 Match Test Series + 3ODI'S + 3 T20'S and we are going to be touring all around the country and play our cricket in different venues. Our first Venue for the first test match of the Test Series - is the Iconic Lord's. The games begin on the 21st Feb.

Ok - to be Honest.

I am a mix bundle of excited nerves + tad bit anxious too at the moment - which is the reason for all this underlying impatience actually for Skip's on the call to reconfirm our practice/net's schedule arranged for us for the next four days by the England Cricket Board. Usually when we tour a country - it's on their cricket board to arrange the venue's and spots and timings for our trainings on the grounds/nets sessions/ - before the games begin in discussions with our officials from the BCCI + Our Coaches+ Skip who put forth a template off the schedule we would like to request.(It's absolutely important to just reaccamlatize the mind freshly again with the playing conditions of the country we are touring.)

So.

First- a brief peek-abo into the reason for my excited nerves. It's got everything to do with the bit off - how crazily excited I am to hit the Nets at Lord's.Playing Cricket(be it practice/or the actual game) at any given time at Lord's is another experience all-together.(Even if - you'v been there - done that before)

Now - a Peek-abo into the reason for my Anxiousness which totally stems from the bit that I am returning to play after a little halt of a month. I had sustained a significant shoulder spasm in the middle of a T20 Match in the beginning of January during New Zealand's tour of India and I was advised to just pause for a bit and let the injury re-coup- on it's own and give it enough time to just strengthen before I get back to Play and gear up for this tour of England.(I had cleared the fitness test just in time before departure with the Squad - but I haven't actually got any intense practice sessions after the recovery.)

And I have to admit another strange in here though - and that's the fact that even though I have been playing internationally and professionally for India for years now(since my debut in 2012) - everytime I return to play the matches/practice after even a short injury(even if it's just a week or even three-four days) - I get this pool of anxiety in the pit of my stomach.

But because I usually am a big fan off my natural - positive + jovial+ extrovert mood mode it would be apt to say that - that's the state of my mind - I like to have my gears tuned in as my go to mode which technically equates into the bit that I don't fancy being friends with Anxiety. It's natural for it to come around but when it does I always find my own ways to deal with it.(Which is exactly what I gotta do today too by giving myself some Me Time to just unwind at my own pace - before I hit the Net's/Practice tomorrow - i.e if everything goes according to our team's plan).

It's a good thing that the first day of every Long tour- (which is today) - is mostly a dedicated day off to just relax and settle in - which is also the reason why the rest of the boys + support team are yet to come down for breakfast. They are all probably still sleeping in a little late.

On that Note - It's only fair that I give a brief peek-abo into our team dynamics too. We are a close knit unit and mostly everyone gets along with one another and we focus on building + nurturing an amiable bond - both on pitch and off pitch with one another. Squads composition do keep shifting and rotating obviously given the different formats/ injury status of players /personal leaves/testing and deepening the bench strength - but nonetheless Skip makes sure that the culture of having a close bond in balance with a healthy-positive competitive spirit within a squad/unit continues to prevail amongst all and not just the Playing 11 members.(As of now - for this long tour to England - we are a 25 member player squad - that's flown into England along with the rest off of our Support team off Admin /Medical/Physio's/Coaches)

Also on a personal note - Raunak, Ved, Sameer, Skip, Daksh and me - have been a closer set of buddies for years and we are actively involved in the inner circles of each other's personal lives as well.

Raunak says now as he finishes up his breakfast looking behind towards Skip - " okay seriously..what's taking him so long though? I really hope there isn't any clash with England's practice plan for then it's just going to need so much unnecessary shuffling in our plan..."

Ved nods as he finishes his breakfast - " my thoughts exactly...we just got the next four days to prep and get accustomed to the change in playing conditions before the Test Series...and we totally need this time because it's been a couple of months since we just prepped with keeping the Test's in mind..."

Our preparation and intensive training/gaming strategies before games - depends on the Format of the Fixtures coming up - obviously. Each format - is a different ball game - altogether.

We all look up to see Skip finally walk back towards us as he takes his seat back on our breakfast table. He places his phone back on the table and Ved asks instantly- " all confirmed Skip??please tell me there is no clash for the Nets/Practice sessions this time around??and we got the exact balance in between the indoor/outdoor nets time that we were looking for??"

Also please note - We all love to address our Captain Dev - as Skip/Cap most of the times - even when we are all in our personal space. It just has a different respectful ring to it.He's The Captain of Our Ship - the one who holds it all together and we all look upto him in so many different ways both professionally and personally. Ved's our Vice Captain - and for us - as a unit I think we'v got this perfect blend of passive aggressive approach towards how we go about Our Game - because of the apt blend of their leading styles. The fact that they enjoy a very sorted personal equation also helps - of course.

Raunak,Sameer and me exchange a knowing grin now as we observe Skip's relaxed body language and the breezy smile and we wink at Ved in unison as we say - "ofcourse we did get exactly what we want Ved - isn't that why Skip's body language is all relaxed...he would be frowning deep in thought otherwise.."

Ved grins as he looks at Skip to reconfirm- " we did??"

Cap nods picking up his coffee mug as his relaxed grin widens - " yes we did... boys - it's confirmed - we get all the Indoor nets at the Lords for practice tomorrow and day after for our usual sessions and the next two days after we get the outdoors in the mornings - but on the last day before the match we did have to compromise on about an hour's time with regards to the indoor nets in the afternoon - for England wants it too.But that should be okay..."

We all exchange a happy relieved nod and I gulp down the last sip off my coffee feeling my anxiety knots ease up a little now that I finally know that I have full next four days of apt practice time. As an Bowling all-rounder - I need to give an equal amount off time and training to all three departments - Ball,Bat and Fielding and I like to focus on just one element on any given session.And with the way things have panned out for us now - I am absolutely delighted that I will have enough time to just focus on it all.

We all continue to chatter casually for about five minutes or so - as we wait for Cap to finish up his breakfast.

Once Cap finishes - he leans back in his chair all relaxed as he says - "well..now we can all just relax for the day with no worry on our minds and get ready to sweat it out tomorrow on...,"and he pauses as Ved nods typing into his phone - "also Skip.. I'v just texted everyone about the confirmation off practice plan on our whtsapp group - they should see it and have the heads up too..as and when they wake up..."

Skip grins and nods at him - "that's good Ved....so...anyone up for a Swim?"

Raunak and Sameer nod as they say - "we are..."

Ved winks - " I will hit the gym first for a bit first Skip and then join you in the pool..."

Raunak chips in next picking up his phone and flashing it to our faces - " guys - the games begin in four days but the excitement around the series is on an all time high - it's been the talk of the cricketing hour back in the media home ever since we arrived here..."

Sameer nods looking into his phone - "well it's the same in the local media here too..."

England and India - are two countries that love their Cricket immense.The Media frenzy and the expected performance analysis by critics, gaming experts - all begin well in advance.

Raunak chips in next - "And - lets not even begin to talk about social media..for we all know the state off the buzz on all our handle's on Instagram..."

We all share a collective knowing nod. All of us here on the table - just like most of the other boys on the squad/team are really active up on Instagram and we mostly manage our own social media accounts. In today's day and age - social media has just become this powerful tool of connection and communication. And we all know that just like any coin - its has two sides to it and is a double edged sword - however we just regularly try to keep our focus on the positive side of the coin and ignore the crazy trolling/hate/criticism.(We often sit and have a laugh over - our very own amusing meme's that go viral up online and Ved/Raunak/Daksh/me are quite vocal in taking a mischevious dig at one another on each other's Insta handles.The fact that we know each other so well otherwise and share a thick bond just makes the jovial banter more Fun.

Cap adds next grinning - " yes boys - but do not let the pressure from the outside be it gaming critics or performance expectations- play on your mind and derail your focus alright?"

We all nod in unsion - " copy that ..skip.."

We are all kind of used to this but it's good to have Skip remind us the same every now and then.

Personally - even though I do keep myself aware of what is being said on the outside - I try my best to not let it overshadow my state of mindfulness and focus.I like to just keep my Focus on what is in my hand -which is My Hard work/grit/ my performance and the expectations that I have off myself in terms off my contribution towards our Team. I try not to get too influenced by media pressures/gaming critics opinions/or any other pressure from the outside - as I remind myself that they are just out there doing their Job. And all that is in my hands is just to Focus on Mine.It's a positive coping mechanism I learnt from Cap over the years.(I think we all did)

Ved nods as he adds with a grin picking up his phone - "on a fun note - did you all read this article written by some local sports reporter here that floated in last night online - that's talking all about - how every cricket fan in England can't wait to see if our man ASR is going to get the better off Wilson's game this time around too?? or will it be vice-versa - finally? ASR..did you see this one??this ones my favourite given the cheeky way its taking a subtle dig at Wilson - afterall you'v got his wicket everytime we'v played England in any format for the last six freaking years...if you don't clean bowl him - you trap him LBW or get him catch out and if its none of that - you run him out...,"he finishes with a chuckle.

The England batsmen here in context is their star opener - Robert Wilson. He opens for England in all formats - and fortunately my ball's been able to get the better of his bat eventually - every single game.

I chuckle as I admit - " yes I did read that one..Ved.....however it's crazy that it's such a hype though...we'v always been very cordial off field..during the customary handshake's.."

Sameer grins - " that's because as players we all like to uphold the spirit of the game - nonetheless - once the game is over..but I am sure at the back of his head - Wilson's always wondering how is it that you are able to get the better of him every single time...despite all his prepration..."

I chuckle as I admit - "which is precisely why it will be good to just get into his head and deceive him to play a rash shot and get his wicket again obviously plus I totally aim for a couple more wickets in the same match...maybe their entire top order..you all know bowlings the first love of my life - taking wickets is what keeps me going - infact Ma's words just before I was leaving home this time were - yeah give my son wickets to eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner - and he will never complain of hunger...,"I finish with a playful wink.

We all share a warm laugh at that.

Raunak chides mischeviously next - "well aunty is right about that - also I think Wilson surely must be scowling immensely reading this though.If only he knew our inner secret- that our very own ASR often gets the better of both Sameer and me in the net's too...so it isn't just England opener's that he has the knack of dismissing often.."

Sameer adds with a wink - " and that it's us too...I am so glad..we play for the same team brother mostly..."

I chuckle as I nod - "so am I....."

Ved nods - "totally...The IPL is enough time for us spending out ways to outplay your spin and Daksh's express pace... "( The IPL is the only tournament in which we all play on different teams. Sameer plays for Delhi. Raunak captains Mumbai and Daksh plays for Mumbai too. Ved captains Bangalore. Cap and me - play for Chennai.)

Cap grins - "and I am so glad I do not even have to think about that.."

We all share a happy chuckle at that - and our friendly chatter continues as we get up from the table.

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

Cap, Sameer, Raunak get off the elevator on their floor and now it's just Ved and me as the elevator lunges up towards our floor.

Ved shoots me a knowing look reading my expressions easily- "anxious much??"

Now you know what I mean by the bit that My Face just always gives me away.

I admit honestly - " a little bit..you know how it is for me...when I return even after a little halt - the first game up next always feels like as if it were my very first..."

He nods and smiles in an instant understanding - " I know...exactly what you mean..buddy..it's been the same for me...so what plans?? I know you aren't friends with anxiety - you surely want to get it sorted in the head before tomorrow."

I nod with a grin - " exactly...and I have a perfect plan in mind.."

He grins and asks - " so I reckon you won't join us in the gym or swim/P.S time after...just some - Me Time for you..perhaps??"

I nod at him - "exactly...but I will see you all in the late evening..for sure..."

He nods and grins as we step out the elevator to our floor - " take your time buddy...,"and we continue to chat on our way to our rooms.

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

Once I close my room door shut - I take out my phone outta my pocket to quickly drop in all the best texts to my parents and my sister for their respective surgeries planned for this morning.(We spoke about it on our family video call last night) Even though it's still early in India given the time difference(a little over 4am) - they will see my message when they wake up at their scheduled 5am time.

I love my Family to Bits. We are all very close and both my parents have always been my Heroes and our biggest source of inspiration. Both my siblings are also an immense source of my strength too.

As I finish sending them the texts - I plonk on the bed to briefly check on some unread emails from last night. I open my inbox and find some recent ones from my business manager- Aman(whose back in India) - that I need to reply too. Aman is my right hand when it comes to managing all my business/PR/ activities related to the world outside off cricket in terms of brand endorsements/ad-shoots/ social media collaborations etc.

After I am done with addressing those - I scroll down to the next set of emails from my unidentical twin -Akash(who is two minutes younger to me).He is the Business Brain in our Family. Along with actively managing/overseeing the business aspect of our chain of Multi-Speciality Hospitals in the country on behalf of Dad/Mom (who founded these Hospitals) - he also oversee's about seven off my other active business investments that I have invested into in different industries and verticals (from all that I have earned from Cricket over time) and keeps me updated and in the loop about what's been reported to him by the executive partner's off those companies.

Ten minutes later - once I am finally done with answering all the Unread Mails for now I move to get set to head out for the day to just soak up on some - Me - Time.

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

Fifty Minutes Later - 11:15 AM

In the Cab

Arnav's POV Continues

I don't know how many of you would relate - but somehow I really enjoy gazing out of the windows off the vehicles I am travelling in with some Music plugged into my ears. When I am in the car/team bus - I just enjoy gazing at the traffic passing by on the roads outside and when I am in the plane - I just enjoy gazing at the Clouds.

It's exactly what I'v been doing for the last fifty minutes enroute to the spot I have chosen to Unwind at all by myself. Plus Google Map now tells me - I am still ten minutes away from my Destination though.

I pause on my music and ask my Uber chauffeur to reconfirm - " we should be there in ten minutes perhaps?"

He nods instantly politely - " yes..we should be.."

I thank him politely and replay my music - now switching to some random playlists on my Music App. And the minute I do - in flows in a familiar tune of a latest Bollywood number - by chance.

Followed by her Voice.

Whose Voice?

My Ex-s.

Roohi Arora.(She's a popular face/singer off our Music Industry.And recently - almost all the popular hits have her voice in it.And I am happy for her professionally. She's always been brilliant at her Job.)

And now - its only natural for the memories of the past to flood in - given that she was my very first and the last one I'v dated until this point.

Hmm.

So - a brief context - I'd met her when I was 22 (three years ago) and through Ved actually as in at a house party at his place in Bombay. Ved's been steadily dating Maahi for four years now( and Maahi is Roohi's elder sister.She's a famous news anchor with one of the countrie's leading news channel and is also a great friend of mine).

It was obvious to run into Roohi then. She was just starting to make her place in the music industry then with a couple of hits to her name and I had been able to successfully cement my spot in the national team as an All rounder getting past those initial years. We did click on very comfortable level given that we have similar personalities and since there was a spark of attraction too - we began dating soon after. We were together for a Year and things were always good in between us. I really liked her and was quite invested in terms of my emotions too. And just when I thought I was on the verge off getting into it deeper - she dropped the break up bomb on me - on the accounts that - even though she did like me quite a lot and we did have this great relationship - she didn't think she could carry on further because long distance was starting to get too taxing and was taking a toll on her but because she did respect me greatly - she did want to part on a good note - rather than burn bridges as sour partners later on.

What did I do then?

I respected her decision ofcourse and voiced the same to her - and walked away graciously - but I did tell her that it was going to take me some time to just bury the hatchet in my head to come around to being cordial as past acquaintances in the future. It obviously took me a little while in my head to get over the leftover hurt of it all and process the fact that she probably wasn't ready/or probably ever was emotionally invested enough in our relationship. But nonetheless in a way - I was glad that this happened before I was deeply in love with her or something. So yup - about four-five months later after our break up - I was able to look back at things neutrally and was able to just let go of it all. And it's been two years since our break up now - and it isn't that we are in touch or something - but there are times we run into each other through Ved or Maahi and we are only cordial and respectful towards one another. She also does drop me a congratulatory text here and there after any of my brilliant performances/teams victory and I acknowledge it with a gentle thanks and reply her - with a general - all the best to you for everything! That's about it all.

So the bottom line is that technically on the matters of the heart - I have been single ever since.Here's the thing - either I do relationships with proper investment of my time and feelings - or I don't do them at all. And that's how it rolls for me. I am not the guy who can indulge in causal affairs/no strings attached/one night stands - kind of business. For deep down - I am an emotional man and I get attached which means I can only be with someone that I really like beforehand with the feel of wanting to invest my emotions and time backing it all up.

In the deep corners of my heart - I do long to fall in Love though - for having witnessed my parents have a wonderful marriage and so many more happy couples in my extended family - I do have great respect/faith and belief in Relationships and the institution of Love.

It didn't work out for me once. But that does not mean - It won't work again.

I just haven't met anyone whose caught my genuine interest that way in these last two years.

That's all.

Maybe because - I'v just been so pre-occupied with drowning myself towards improving my game constantly?

"We will be there in three-four minutes - you want me to pull up towards the main enterance/drop off right? no point going into the parking..," comes my Uber chaueffeur's voice as the cab screeches to a halt in front of a red light pulling me outta my flashback into the tales of my heart - stuper. It is right then that Roohi's song comes to an end in my ears too.

Well - good on you Roohi - that was a good song! May you continue to soar to greater heights.

I pause on the Music next and answer back with a polite reply that - I do want him to pull in front off the drop off point.

Once he nods in acknowledgement of the same - I pop out my earpods and tuck them back in their box and shove it in my pocket and re-adjust my Cap on the head and pull the cover off my black Face Mask that covers half my face snug over my Nose.( Which I am wearing for two reasons). First - it's still part chilly here in England as the weather is shifting and it's the common flu season here and given that I am about to step into a public space even though it is a weekday - its going to be partially crowded and I do not want to catch the flu and fall sick right before the start of my tour- obviously. Second - the face mask also works as a tool to help conceal my identity and with my Cap on over my head - the complete look gives me the exact privacy cover I need for the day even though I know I look crazy and weird.

But at the moment all that matters is the fact that the privacy cover is working for my Uber chauffeur is an Asian (surely Indian) and he did not recognise me at all(even though I had the mask tucked little under the nose) when I sat into his car from the pick up point down the curb of our Hotel. So I am completely confident that with my face mask tucked over my nose snugly now - its going to be very difficult for anyone to see me/recognise me for who I am.

It is right then he pulls the car to a screeching halt in front off the drop off point of my destination and I thank him politely for his service - and get off the car - with a hidden smile curved up my lips under my mask.I haven't indulged in this mode of my Venting out my anxiety for a year now - which is why I just know I am going to totally enjoy it all and feel a lot relaxed after for sure.

Plus something in my Gut tells me - it's going to be a good-good- day and so my smile widens on its own accord - as I begin to walk in - all set and Up for Some Crazy - Fun - Me - Time!!

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

TADAAAAAA!!

How was The Update Guys?

What are your thoughts on ASR's introduction this time around??

Also Yes.

Next Update : Tuesday Evening.

Until Then - Please take care and Stay Indoors and Safe guys!!!!

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

Much Love

Always

Prachi

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

coderlady thumbnail
Posted: 3 years ago
#10

Arnav feeling anxious and then hears the voice of his ex. At least he is not hurting over that breakup and has had time to move on.

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