ARSHI FF : HIT WICKET MY HEART 2.0 - EPILOGUE1.0.Pg 44(8/7/2021)*Compl - Page 7

Khushi's body is on full revolt. The mind has lost control of the organs.

Khushi has one thing pegged down right. Being happy is an important goal in life.

She released the secret to Jess. Didn't think she was going to.

Wonderful update... brilliantly written yaar...the way arnav ask her to hold her hand was just mind blowing....she called him arnav yaar...that's magical....loved it.. can't wait for the next update...

Glad she realizes it superb update

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee

So here I am with the Next Update…it’s a 7.5K plus Words Long update Guys…apologies that it got pushed to Midnight, but here it is, by the end of Monday – as promised.

Will be Eager to know what you all think.

Thank you so much for your amazing feedback uptil now Guys.

We are now – One more Month forward into the Story.Please keep a note on the Timeline.

And 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.

………….

CHAPTER 16 – THE ROUND ROBIN - ‘WARMING UP'

ONE MORE MONTH LATER – 23rd April, 2019 – Jaipur, India

(It has been Two Months+ One Week, since Arnav and Khushi Met)

6:30 PM

Khushi’s POV

I grin at Jess as we both listen to Hina , (who is Captaining our Delhi’s team, in this Domestic Season) say with a huge grin up her face as she is sipping on her tea as well – “ Khushi, Jess, trust me, I have this feeling that tomorrow we are going to win the game, against Rajasthan and clinch that first spot on the Group Table – which means that we will play Maharashtra in the first semi’s…”

I nod at her excited , sipping on my tea as well as I say – “ Hina , I know you’v quit on sugar long ago, or else I surely would have dunked down an extra spoon of sugar in your tea and stated – that may the sweetest cup of tea make its way down your threat , for just saying that out loud…”

The three of share a warm laugh now as I wink and continue to sip my tea and Jess says now excited as well – “ well to be honest guys, I am quite excited to see the outcome for the match tomorrow, because both our teams, as in Rajasthan and Delhi are on the top of the group table already, with the tie in points, and as of now they are just on no 1 because of the little extra spike in their run rate from ours…and this last match in between of us is going to decide, which of us plays which team in the semi’s from the top two teams in the Group B, both Maharashtra women and Railway women have been having a wonderful tournament nonetheless…and I know we all are definitely aiming for that win ya tomorrow….just like Rajasthan would be…”

Nandini walks up to our table now( she is my opening partner in the domestic team) along with Parul(who is one of our ace bowlers) and she says – “ well guys, but since we are at their home turf…Rajasthan’s obviously played a lot of matches on this ground already, and just in case any crowd does turn up to watch the match tomorrow, the support will be all in for Rajasthan women, so we must not let that deter our spirit at all…,”and she winks at me as she says – “ khushi…just in case we bat first, we got to aim for a rock solid opening partnership, and well if we end up chasing then we shall obviously rethink the strategy..”

I chuckle as I nod at her – “ of course partner…the bat’s always ready..either ways…we will play our best to kill it tomorrow…” and we both High Five, each other – happily.

Parul grins and I hear her fall into a discussion about the bowling strategy’s etc along with Hina, Jess, Nandini, and some more of our team mates join in – and I listen on, sipping on my tea, and munching on the remainder of the snacks on my plate.

A couple of minutes later , I finish on my tea and snacks and our active discussion now gets diverted to what the hostel’s canteen has planned to serve us all for Dinner tonight – and I think it’s safe for me to sneak out a couple of minutes from within the walls of my Head and give you all a brief insight into the context of the situation.

So yes, everyone – It’s been literally a Month, since we last met and of course a lot has happened, that I need to give you all a brief glimpse into on both spheres – game wise, personal front wise.(Ahemm..so for obvious reasons since I am surrounded with my domestic team members right now – its only fair that I start with giving a glimpse into ‘the Game Wise’ bit)

So yes.

Guys – I am sure you all would have guessed, but I shall state it anyway – technically right now we are all in the Sports Hostel for Women, right now, which is going to be our location for stay for these short couple of days in Jaipur. We arrived here, this afternoon – as the last match within our Group A stages of our Domestic -Under 23 T20 League, is scheduled to be played tomorrow before our domestic tournament enters into the knock – out stages. Just a brief context everyone – our Women’s Domestic T20 League is like this month long Inter- State tournament, where in over 37 Women state teams of the country participate all categorised into 5 groups(GroupA,B,C,D,E), and we all play each other in the first ten days of the tournament in matches in our respective groups, in the Round Robin format and then the TOP 2 teams from every group, make it to the Final Super League Groups, (which kicks off for play in the second leg off the tournament) – Group A and Group B. In the Super League Group formats, each Group – Group A and Group B – have five teams each and once again we all play each other by turns in the Round Robin format, and the top 2 teams from the respective groups make it to the Knockout Stages. And I am absolutely delighted to report that in this year’s domestic season, our Delhi team not only qualified at the top of the group in the earlier stages,and got qualified into Group A in the Super League stages but we are now in the Top 2 within the Group Stage already(As you all would have guessed by our excited conversations above, but I just had to state it again anyway…like Yippeeee to that).

Ok so, Our Group A in the Super League this year comprised off the five women state teams from - Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Hyderabad and Andhra and Group B comprised off – Railways, Maharashtra. Gujarat, Karnataka, and Himachal Pradesh. Group B is already done with all their group stage matches, and as of now Railway is on top of their points table and second is Maharashtra. And after this last match, in between of us and Rajasthan tomorrow – the tournament will finally head into the knock out stages of the semis and then the Finals and will conclude by the 30th of this month. So yeah – by the time the tournament would have ended, in this domestic season – a total off 142 plus T20 cricket matches would have been played by the various domestic women’s cricket team across the nation).And to be honest guys – I have been loving and relishing and enjoying every bit off the Season like to the core, because even though it’s obviously been gruellingly hectic and aggressive in terms of both practice and play and very competitive as well, but I have gotten to learn a lot from all off my team- mates this season, actually not just my team mates, but our opponents as well – which has further affirmed each of our beliefs as women cricketers – that the female talent pool for Cricket in our country, has truly got on some great potential and is continuously thriving as well – irrespective of the fact that there’s less awareness about our games, and no media coverages. Lack of those things haven’t been able to deter the Spirit of the Sport – which continues to thrive and grow.

I am right on that thought when I hear Hina Di say to us all now – “ guys, on that note – another reason why I am so excited to just win the match out tomorrow, is so that, we can all watch in the IPL game in between of Rajasthan and Bangalore tomorrow, live from the stands – without any worry at all…I mean look at how thrilling this afternoon’s game in between Mumbai and Rajasthan was, and Rajasthan losing out by just two runs…is like ouch no…I mean girls, we all know how painful these close losses are, also are you all up to get huddled in the common area so that we can all watch Chennai taking on Hyderabad, in the game starting in a while from now??? ”

Everyone nods and starts to talk about the IPL game this afternoon and then get excited about tonights game as well and then tomorrow’s games line up as they agree with Hina di, that they were all glad that our match was scheduled to be played in the morning itself and they start discussing which sides they were rooting for the win in tonights game and tomorrow’s evening game. (Well – you all already must know that this IPL – I am totally rooting for Bangalore, to win the CUP – for reasons you all already know - Haha)

Jess grins as she says to everyone – “ guys this time, I am surely rooting for Bangalore, for the win…”,and she looks at me straight and gives me a mischievous gesture from her eye which only I catch onto obviously, and I quickly gesture her to not get on with her mischievousness in front of everyone right now and that she could save it for when we were alone in our room, in a bit. She nods back me at me immediately and grins.

Everyone’s chatter continues.

Ok so – guys, I am sure you all have guessed it outright but I shall say it anyway since we are in Jaipur and tomorrow is the end of the group stage matches for us as well, we all obviously have the tickets to go see the IPL match in between of Rajasthan Vs Bangalore, tomorrow night at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.(Our team’s matches are all played in the morning slot – like starting at 10am and it all finishes by around 2pm, mostly) - so, also the above scenario means that as of now, this very minute – Skipper Blue and me, are in the same city right now. Actually – both of us arrived in Jaipur , with our respective teams over just around two hours apart. He landed into Jaipur around 1pmish along with the rest of the Bangalore team and checked into the ITC Rajputana(which is where the teams playing in the IPL usually stay, when in Jaipur) and I, arrived by our team bus from Delhi and checked into our Sports Hostel for Women as organised for our stay by the domestic tournament’s organisers, alongside the rest of my team at around 3pm.

I am right on that thought when my phone beeps in my pocket.

Its surely Arnav – I know.

I quickly get up from the group and walk to the water cooler side of the Canteen – on the pretext of getting myself some water to drink as I dish out my phone from my pocket and open WhatsApp.

It is Arnav.

Him : I just can’t freaking believe this Khushi…tell me just once that it isn’t true and that something might just be possible…is there really no way that we can meet at all? tonight? Even though we are in the same city??

Guys, we’d obviously been on chat as much as possible all day, nonetheless. In fact I was chatting with him only, before Jess and me made our way to the canteen – for tea and snacks time.

I bite back my smile as I quickly text.

Me : Sorry ya SB, you know it really is next to impossible to get out of the hostel tonight ya without catching on too much attention as in you know since its game for us tomorrow morning ya, also not only is everyone gathering up to watch the Chennai Vs Hyderabad, IPL match in our hostel’s common room…we shall be discussing and analysing, and observing the game as well, amongst us all… you know exactly how it is na..i am like so very sorry about this..

Him : yes I know, and know that I understand Khushi, please don’t be sorry at all ok?. It’s just that I am just all bummed out because of the same..

I take a deep breath as I type.

Me : please don’t be bummed out no Arnav..ok tell me is there any chance that I can do anything to help your Bummed-out-ness lessen a bit??

Him : yes there surely is..

Me : what is it SB?? please tell me..

Him : please figure out a way that we can get on a video call tonight maybe.. Khushi? Haven’t video-called with you in over a couple of days and if I can’t see you in person, then is there way that I can see you through the screen at least?? I do miss our video calls…you know that don’t you?? I just need to see you, even though its through screen, you know I cannot go without seeing you for long – atleast digitally.

Ok guys – so that last bit from him was just about to open another court hearing within the Supreme Courts of my Hearts. I pause on the same because I am on chat right now. Sorry Dear Heart – you gotta push on the Hearing for a Bit – its priority to be present in real time whilst chatting with Arnav you know?? as in I can’t space out on him on chat ya, just because you want to go into your Swooning-Malfunction Mode. I hear My Heart Reply. Oh Yes K, don’t worry about the same – I am very clear in my priorities as well, please continue chatting with Arnav, we shall anyway see you in a bit.Apologies for all the crazy Wobbles + Swooning amidst Chat, but don’t blame us, its like he writes out a text like that – and I am back to feeling like a Wobbly Hyper- Humpty Dumpty. I mean – why does he have to be so Charming?

I chuckle to that and I take a deep breathe as I reply : yes I know that SB…okieess…see I will figure something out…ill go on the hostel’s terrace for a walk maybe like later tonight, after the game and everything, and then maybe we can get on a video call SB…you know since Hina, Parul, are always hanging out in mine and Jess’s room till late in the night these days, so that’s why haven’t been able to video call much with you on this tour ya …it isn’t because I don’t want to..you know that don’t you Arnav??

Him : yes…I know that Khushi. And thank you so very much for this is good news already I mean..atleast I will be able to see you, tonight.Also what you upto?? Done with the tea time/snacks break?

Me : well not done with that completely, Arnav as in I am still in the canteen with the team as we are all catching up and getting excited about the fact that our match will be over in the morning – I mean everyone’s exited about seeing the IPL live in between of Bangalore and Rajasthan…tomorrow night no??also everyones just been discussing the afternoon game and anticipating the results of Chennai vs Hyderabad tonight. You know we all follow the IPL crazily anyway.

I grin as I tap send.

Phone beeps in a second.

Him : and I am not interested to know what everyone is feeling about watching tomorrow’s game live. I only want to know what you are feeling, so c’mon then.. tell me…you excited as well?

I quickly fill myself a glass of water and gulp it down so that the blush up my cheek does not deepen. I mean – I am still in the Canteen and most of my team-mates are like all around me. I most surely cannot risk looking all blushed up like a Tomato Ketch-UP.

Me : Arnav..you already know the answer to that don’t you??

Him : maybe..i do, but let’s just say that I want to hear you say it. Well technically in this case – I mean, I want to read what you type out in a reply to that.

I bite back my smile as I quickly reply : ufffffffff yaaaa Arnav…like you really love to take my case ya…so well, to be honest I am obviously excited and happy about coming to the stadium to see Bangalore vs Rajasthan play Live tomorrow.

Him : you mean you are excited and happy to see just both our teams play?? I mean are you only happy because you will be watching the game, live?

Me : Arnav..please…

Him : Khushi..please..

Me : well I am obviously happy also because that means I will get to see you for real, in front of me…(I add a sticky tongue emoticon). I mean technically you will be on the field no, playing?? so nonetheless – I will see you for Real.

Him : and the fact that I cannot come to see you play live tomorrow in the morning - is like so very unfair. Why won’t you let me?? I want to see you play too.

I smile as I read that.

Me : oh pleaseeee Arnav, you know how that would be like a bolt of thunderous surprise which will grab too many eyeballs even if you get a couple of team- mates along and secondly, it isn’t because of just that, you have that collective ad-shoot in the morning no? slotted for the same time as my match with the Mumbai and Rajasthan team…and it is for such a good cause, so yeah…

Him : well it is a bummer that the collective ad-shoots timing clash with your match Khushi, otherwise I surely would have come along with Ravi and a couple more of my team mates to the ground tomorrow, to see you play live. You know I have the perfect cover for all the eyeballs – and that would be that we totally wanted to cheer on our women domestic team as well, before they head into the knock out stages, for you’ve all been having such a wonderful tournament, and its insane that the media doesn’t give this much coverage.

I reply honestly : well Arnav, you know the loss of media coverage doesn’t deter our spirit nonetheless. Anyways you tell me what you upto?? How’s the catching up with everyone going??

Him : its going great Khushi. Me and Ravi are Just catching up with Rohan and Veer, who’v just freshened up and come to catch up with us,since Mumbai just finished up with the match with Rajasthan.Its anyway been long since we all hung out together because of our different schedule’s with our respective teams. And now we are getting all set to watch Cap’s Chennai take on Hyderabad as well tonight, you know I love to watch Cap play on TV. It’s like one of my favourite’s moments in time.

I smile as I read that. And right then I see Jess gesturing me to come join everybody back.

I quickly type.

Me : yes I know, it surely is Arnav. Ok listen, Jess is calling me in right now to join back everyone. I gotta rush. You enjoy watching the game with everyone as well, k?? let’s connect later then?

Him : ok Khushi, later then…video call tonight? Right? For sure??

Me : yes yes, for sure like pakka * infinity se sure, Arnav.(I add a smiley) ok now bbyye for real. Text you soon.

Him : okies bbye for Real Khushi.

I drink up another glass of water before I make my way back to join my Team- mates and we all decide to head towards the Common room to get ready to watch the Game as well since it was almost nearing 7 pm now.

Sorry Dear Heart. Let’s push back our Hearing, to later tonight? Before we get on the video call with Skipper Blue then??

I hear My Heart say. Ofcourse K, I understand. I truly am getting all tuned into the Gaming chamber’s within my walls as well. Let’s enjoy a game of Cricket like we always do – together, and then we shall talk about Skipper Blue, once the game was over. We can’t escape that discussion anyway.

………………………

Hours Later – Midnight

Khushi’s POV Continues

I take a step onto the terrace of the Hostel and I feel the instant breeze of fresh air – bring a huge grin up my face on its own accord. I make my way to the far end and sit on the ground , folds my leg in a cross and lean my back against the wall.

Guys – I did text Arnav that we would connect on a Video- Call by around 1215 am, just as the Game finished a while ago. So Chennai won the game to clinch another two points on the point tables in the IPL. IPL is still in its Round – Robin stages right now everyone, as in where in all the teams are taking turns to play against one another, and as of now the top four teams on the point table are : Mumbai , Chennai, Bangalore and Punjab, but there is still a while before the tournament enters into the knock-out stages , so its like there’s a lot of positive momentum with which each of the teams are still playing.

Hmmm.

On that note – dear Heart, I want a little one on one with just You right now. Rest of the organs,eyes + mind, please take note. I do not want any interruption please. And I mean no offense.ok?

Mind + Eyes + Rest of the Organs in Unison. Ohkkk K, point Noted. This is an exclusive session that you want with just the Heart we get it.please note -None offense Taken.We love you – K. We are all busy reminiscing with the set of moments with Arnav in our memories anyway.

I feel my Heart take its Seat – in the Chief Judge chair.Its just my Heart and me – now.

My Heart smiles. Ok K…off you shoot…go ahead..lets get this hearing started.

I nod as I admit. Yes so, dear Heart -so while I was on that thought of Arnav’s IPL still being in the Robin Round matches stage and our last match of this stage also being tomorrow -I just gotthinking to myself, wouldn’t it be fair enough to say that the current equation in between of Arnav and me, is also like as if its in like some sort of a Round – Robin cricket tournament where in, I could say that – ‘him’ and ‘me’ getting closer in the ways that we are – is almost like as if we were in some – ‘ Warm Up – practice session going on in the Nets..and then continuing to be all geared up in the Round- Robin league stage matches as well.You understand, what I mean, don’t you?

I hear my Heart say with a Grin. Bingo, K. That’s almost like the perfect way to put this you know, since you’v both only gotten closer than what you were in the last month that’s passed by as you have both continued to stay as connected in your free time, with each of you putting in similar efforts on the same as well.So Yup – I would say that there is a lot of Warming Up and Practice going on in between the pitch that exists invisibly in between his heart and me.You do agree on the fact that the broth of your instant connection that has been Warming up – has surely thickened amidst all the simmering as well, right??

I sigh as I close my eyes, keeping a hand on my heart. Well you are right about that dear Heart. You do know obviously that I am continuing to fall for him in the ways that are a lot faster, that I had anticipated. Its like some sort of a SpeedMeter is on work here. And I have no control over it. I am getting way too into Him. Like way too Intooo – Him. You know how he’s tiptoeing his way into my System right??Or maybe I should just admit outright – that he’s running his way into my system, as fast as he takes those killer runs, running, in between the wickets at the speed of Sound.

I hear my heart Ask with a worry. Wait K? why is there a worry frown up your forhead? Don’t tell me,You have some problem with the SpeedoMeter operations??as in do you feel like you want to control it.

I admit immediately. No no, that’s not what I mean.

My heart relaxes all of a sudden and grins up at me. Good K, because to be honest, I seem to have no control over this Speedometer as well. You know how he makes me feel.All Happy and giddy and excited. Off late I feel like, I have developed some wings on its own accord. Lets test out some – Flying, maybe?? I mean, I am pretty sure – I can Fly.

I smile to myself as I sigh. God dearest heart, I know you feel like Flying. But you know what I can’t lie to you.I can’t help but wonder what if, I am just destined to continue playing in this Round-Robin format, when it comes to Arnav, as in what if whatever this ‘thing’ in between of us is – never really makes it to the knock out stages.

My heart say, all concerned again. Wait, what?? no??? Why would you even think like that K?? Cmon, don’t do this to me, here I am , routing and cheering for my connection with his heart to win the freaking Final in this Tournament 2122, and you are getting all worked up sending all pessimistic thoughts my way getting me all worried about the knock out stages. And before you ask me why I called it – Tournament 2122, its totally because you first coined the term - APP 2122 because of the two of your jersey no’s.ok? now c’mon tell me why would you even say that.

I admit honestly. Dearest Heart, please know that I don’t want to be pessimistic at all ok? because its like everything is going great in between of Arnav and me, infact more than just great and I am also even more sure off late that it just cannot be just friendship brewing up from his end too – as in, I can sense that. I know I mean something to him and he most surely means a lot to me, but I can’t help but wonder that what does all of this actually Mean as well, as in where are we headed??

I see my Heart give me a heartwarming smile as it says. Ohh K, you are falling for one of those mind fears again, and doing exactly what you shouldn’t do just now. You are letting the worry of the result, take away the fun and enjoyment of playing the match in the first place. The journey of play Is important remember?? You tell that to yourself every game no sweetheart? Then why not tell that to yourself in the matters of feelings as well?

I admit honestly. Maybe, because dear heart for the first time I am scared to even think about – what if he does like me, but does not like me enough? You know what I mean don’t you?? I mean, at the end of the day, I am a sporty tomboy whose dawned in cricketing jersey’s and there’s absolutely nothing uber glamourous about me, and on top of that I literally am so naïve when it comes to all of this relationship stuff, I have no clue on how these things even work, and especially on the other important stuff that matters to men eventually like you know the physical tangents, like for heaven’s sake, I have literally never even been Kissed before ya. I don’t even know how to kiss yet practically and the one I am falling for at the speed of light – has been in a full-fledged relationship with a Bollywood actress before.I mean – it is only natural for a little worry to creep in no, dear Heart. I am just looking out for you, you know. I don’t want you to be Hurt. It feels like it will pain a hell lot, if one fine day Arnav feels like – he’s done staying connected to a naïve/clueless/Charlie Chaplin – Me, and just friend-zones me for Real.

My heart takes a deep breath. Dear K, please know once again that the Vibe we get from his heart surely tells us – that you have nothing to worry about at all.He really likes you. He is into You. and trust me when I say this – I think you are totally belittling this instant intense connection in between of you two by thinking about all these trivial matters. These things grow on naturally as the relationship progresses. Arnav is obviously aware that you have never been in a relationship before. He surely understands. You’v always been honest to him, just like he has always been honest to you. So please don’t let the doubts, and the worries/insecurites belittle what you feel ok??

I take a deep breathe as I admit. Ok dear Heart, I shall try to not let my insecurities about the same worry me. I mean, I will try to figure out a way to think this through – maybe?I mean I have to , I guess – since I most surely cannot stop the thing’s that’s started in between of us. I mean- I don’t want to stop it.

My heart grins. You mean you cannot/don’t want to stop all the - ‘Warming Up, Practice and the Round Robin games’ going on in between that invisible pitch in between his heart and me.

I nod.

Right then my phone beeps in my hand.

Its him – ofcourse.

Dear Heart? Sorry to interrupt our session for now.My heart Grins. Well K, you know an interruption from Arnav is something I never mind, it’s what I look forward to don’t i?? I think that’s me running to get all ready to feel all like a warm and fuzzy, wobbly Humpty Dumpty.

I chuckle at myself, and divert my attention to my phone Now.

Him : Khushi, just got into my room, after all the crazy frenzy we were all consumed with dissecting Chennai’s win over Hyderabad in that close game tonight. Its 12:15 am, are we good to connect? Also did you speak to Uncle, aunty already?? I mean I do want to talk to you Non stop – now that we are finally able to connect on that video call. So just incase you haven’t still spoken to them, please do so and let me know, we can connect then.

I chuckle as I type quickly.

Me : I already did get on a call with Mom, Dad, and also bhai and Anjlai in brief calls after I texted you that we would be good to connect by 1215am, Arnav. What about you? done with talking to everyone back home?? I am all free and good to connect. Am actually on the terrace only.

My WhatsApp Buzzes with a Video-Call immediately.

I feel my Insides flutter.

I plug in my headphones quickly into the port and then into my ears, and I Swipe up the Green Button, and just as I do, I can’t help but smile and Grin like a Idiot myself – as I see, Arnav’s smiling face fill up the screen. He is grinning too and I see him plonk on his bed in the hotel room and lean back into the pillows comfortably now.

For a couple of seconds – none of us actually say anything. We are just grinning at each other, in silence.With our eyes- Locked. We are getting on a video-call, after a week actually.Also,His gaze that was holding mine just now turned like super duper -intense.

I can’t believe how- Happy – I am feeling right now.Like for real guys? What’s wrong with me????????????????????????? I think I am turning into a Gone-Case? – when it comes to him?perhaps?

I hear my Eyes wink at me from the walls of my Head. You think? K? Correction please. You already are a Gone Case! Just like he is…

I blink now immediately as a way of getting back at my eyes right now – and that breaks our eyelock as well and he groans and exclaims, still grinning though – “ why would you do that??”

I chuckle as I ask, looking to my side, nervously – “ why would I do what??”

He says – “ I mean, why would you blink exactly when I was hoping you wouldn’t, Khushi…c’mon now why are you looking sideways? Look at me please?? Isn’t it crazy enough that we are getting on our videocall after a week??”

I look up at the screen, in an instant now and I admit with a nervous smile – “ well , I was just nervous ok?? that’s why I looked away..”

He asks, with that rakish side grin up his face – “ really?? Nervous?? Why??”

I admit honestly, looking sideways – “ maybe because of the way you were looking at me right now ya Skipper Blue…I mean…no one’s ever looked at me like you just did…”

His comforting voice comes through – “call me Arnav, please…no Skipper Blue right now atleast??”

I nod as I say softly, looking back at the screen – “ okk Arnav…”

He grins as he says, a little disappointment evident in his voice – “ literally you are like just ten kms away from where I am, and yet I see you today, through screen, but hey somethings better than nothing atleast…”

I chuckle as I admit – “ yup…somethings better than nothing indeed…”

Our eyes lock again.And once again – his gaze that was holding mine turned into Intense* infinity se, and I say nervously , honestly – “ please, don’t…”

He asks, still holding onto my gaze intently – “ please don’t what Khushi??”

I admit – “ please don’t look at me so intently, maybe..i mean…”

He grins – “ why?? Making you nervous again??”

I nod.

He asks still griining – “ define nervous, please? Like nervous in a good way or a bad way??”

I admit honestly – “ nervous in a good way ya..”

He winks at me mischievously, now – “ nervous in a good way, is good…actually? What say??”

I admit smiling – “ ok..so…I don’t know what to say to that…,”

He chuckles now and says – “ ok fine, lets just say, I shall try not to stare at you so intently, because I do not want to risk you hanging up on the video call on me just now..tell me…all set for the match tomorrow?? I am all rooting for you guys already, I mean you all are surely heading into the knock outs anyway, its just about whether you will be playing Maharashtra or Railways..right??”

Guys – please note, just the way by which Arnav continues to be so subtly supportive and empowering towards me in terms of my game as always, continues to make me fall for him even more. It’s like even though there’s no live telecast of our domestic matches and everything - he always keeps a tap on my game online(As much as he can,as in if he is not in practice or cricketing meetings) through the websites, as and when the game is on,.I know how? Because I mostly have a string of texts from him to look at when I switch on my phone after a game- as usual. And if he is busy in practice himself or in some cricketing meeting, when my games are on, he surely catches up on the updates of it all, the minute he is free and then texts me about the same – first thing.

I nod at him excited and fill him up over all our preps and strategies for the game tomorrow, and then I ask him about his preps for the game tomorrow and he fills me up on the same and about ten to tweleve minutes later into our cricketing conversation as we are almost done discussing it all he says sincerely , in a tone that empowers and motivates me – “ yup..so that’s about it…and I will wish you in the morning too, but I do want to say…all the best for the game tomorrow Khushi…I know you are all going to kill it giving it your best nonetheless..”

I grin to that – “ thank you so much Arnav and I should say the same to you no…like all the best for the game tomorrow as well…I mean I shall obviously wish you again since its only later in the night…but look at my luck, I am going to get to see you kill it tomorrow on the pitch in front of my eyes for real…”

He narrows his eyes at me and groans – “ and as happy as I am about that, I still can’t believe that you won’t let me come see you play, live?? I mean, I can surely skip the ad-shoot you know??”

I roll my eyes at him playfully – “ yeah…yeah…as if?? Cmon ya…Arnav…it’s an important collective ad shoot with the Mumbai and the Rajasthan team, promoting the remaining leg of the IPL, along with the message that the BCCI will be contributing a lot of proceeds from the ticket sales to an amazing charitable organisation …so I would never even ask you to miss or skip that just because I am playing a game..k??also…I..I…”and I pause, because even though I do want to say this out loud to him, I feel a little nervousness take over, because I am obviously worried that I might just offend him with this.

He asks, keeping his eyes locked with mine – “ also..i..i…what? khushi??”

I admit honestly and sincerely, taking a deep breath – “ also, even if the ad- shoot was not happening, its like that cover up for the eyeballs/attention bit from your end would surely have grabbed some attention towards our domestic set up, as in just incase you would have come to see us play… but I have been thinking to myself, I mean would this be fair?No, It wouldn’t be. As in, I would never want to take unnecessary benefit of your cricketing position, to throw light towards the situation around our games, just because I know you, otherwise now. I mean yes, we still need to work on creating all that awareness – but It should happen organically no, with its own natural course, maybe?? So pleaseee – you only please act all supportive towards women’s cricket as you have been normally all this while…like no extra stuff just because we know each other now personally as well. Please. Ok??promise me?? Like pakka se wala promise??”

Arnav nods as he sighs – “ okk…fine…I promise Khushi…”

I ask, sincerely – “ I haven’t offended you in anyway have i?? I am sorry if I have..it wasn’t my intention to Arnav, its just that..i…i..just ..”

Arnav interrupts me immediately now as he says – “ hey..shh…just relax…I understand Khushi…I know you don’t mean to offend me or something, I really do understand your reasons, you don’t even need to explain it to me…ok??”

I lean back my head against this terrace wall and I sigh as I ask – “ how?? Just how do you understand me so well ya??”

He chuckles – “ well I am glad, I just do…”and he says now – “ and to be honest to you right now, as happy as I am that I am getting to see you, I am feeling a tad bit guilty that you are sitting on the ground on the terrace, where in I am in the comfort of my room, just now…”

I chuckle as I say – “ ohh please ya Arnav…you know I would have surely even videocalled you from the room, with my head phones on if it was just Jess in the room just now, I mean I would have requested her to put her headphones on with the blast pf her music and she would have cooperated, but right now its like Hina, Parul, Nandini, and a couple of more girls are just chilling in our room only…so yeah, I most definitely have to just make ado with the terrace just now…everyone thinks I am on a videocall with bhai just now where in we are discussing some family matters…”

Arnav chuckles to that on reflex as he asks – “ really?? Is that what everyone thinks?? “

I nod.

He grins – “ Well I am glad the man my sister loves, could be off some help to me unknowingly, right now..”

We both share a warm laugh and our eyes lock again, intently.And we a comfortable, yet very intense silence takes over.

Just about two minutes into the intense eyelock that was back to making my heartrace, a text from Jess on Whtsapp pops up.

Jess : Khushi, we are all on our way up to the terrace, tried to talk the girls out of it, but everyone’s in mood for some fresh air and some stroll time on the terrace. We will be up in two minutes. Hang up on the video call with SB quickly.

I sigh as I say to Arnav quickly – “ okkk…oops and I am really sorry about this Arnav..but gotta rush now..as in hang up on the video call…Jess just texted that everyones coming up from some fresh air, she couldn’t talk them out of it…”

Arnav groans as he says , disappointment evident on his face– “ what??? no?? gotta rush already??”

I nod as I say sheepishly – “ sorry…”

He sighs – “well I understand..”and he grins and winks – “ but I am glad that you talked to Jess about me, as in I am glad that she knows that Mr stranger is me..”

I chuckle as I admit – “ well its been a month since she knows, and she still has trouble digesting it, she asks me every second day, khushi you are not joking with me na??”

We share a warm laugh and I spot some movement in the terrace door, and I see everyone step on in all laughing and talking and I say to Arnav with a wave, gesturing him with my eye that everyone was here – “ ok bbye …ill talk to you later then…”

He nods, and I hang up.

Just as I get up on my feet my phone beeps in my hand.

Him : I am awake.Text me before you sleep, Khushi.k?

I grin as I reply.

Me : yes I will ofcourse… pakka se…

Everyone asks me to join them and I gesture to them that I will be with them in a couple of minutes.

Him : you wana know why was I looking at you so intently a while ago? Khushi??

I bite back my nervousness as I reply quickly.

Me : yes…

Him : maybe because, that was my gaze’s way of telling you – that you light up my world, Khushi.

My eyes widen as I read that and I type with nervous hands.

Me : i…what??????

Phone beeps in 20 seconds.

Him : everything about you Sparkles my Life Khushi, and its about time you know that.So that’s what I want to call you at times maybe. Sparkle. You know just like how you call me Skipper Blue, Mr stranger, Mr Xray etc etc..ok?? you wouldn’t mind would you??

Did he just say that he wants to call me – Sparkle? At times?

Yup.

My eyes were right.

I already am turning into a GoneCase..when it comes to Him.No scope of think in there.

I quickly reply : no, I wouldn’t mind ofcourse Arnav..

Him : ok then Sparkle.text me soon then when you reach the room.ill be waiting up for you.

I take a deep breathe as I quickly text : ok Arnav…will text you soon…wont be replying now, everyones walking up to me now..

Him : ok..no worries..

I dish back my phone in my track pockets and I make my way to join everyone and as everyone starts to ask me if my call with bhai went ok, I do thank Jess silently for her heads up.

She winks back at me – obviously.

But even though I am distracted by my team mates around me just now, my thoughts are now trailing back to Arnav, nonetheless. I just cannot wait to get onto text and chat with him already.

Yup.

Guys– I was right.

I don’t think I could put a Stop to this- ‘thing’ , all Warming up and Simmering in between of Arnav and Me, even though it was scaring me on a couple of other tangents.

Why?

Because – I didn’t want to.

I JUST DIDN’T WANT TO.

…………………………………………………………………….

TADAAAAA!!!!!

Let me know what you guys think as always, you all know I love reading your feedback and comments.

Next Update : Mostly by Wednesday Night.

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

……………………….

They are in the same city but can not meet up. Thats a bummer.

At least they were able to video chat and text.

Fantastic he hinted her let's see when they will confess

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee

So here I am with the Next Update...it's a 9K plus Words Long update Guys...before Midnight this time..hehe...

Will be Eager to know what you all think.

Thank you so much for your amazing feedback uptil now Guys.

Pleaseee go through the Picture Note, in the Index, before this Update to see the Actor's/faces attached with the characters appearing in this Update. ( I will try to attach the pictures once again,anyway)

Veer

And 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.

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

CHAPTER 17 – SOME 'TRICKY' SPEEDBREAKERs 1.0

The Next Day – 24th April, 2019 (ITC – Rajputana – Jaipur)

10:15 AM

ARNAV'S POV

It's Crazy.

It's Crazy, how Crazy I am about Her.

Her – Who?

Khushi – of course.

Like really Guys, do I even need to say this??

It's surely Obvious.

And you know what's the best part?

It is the fact that My Clueless Cinderella – isn't really as Clueless about our Connection anymore. I know she can now easily, sense every bit of the Vibe I have been sending out to her, and especially in the last one month,as we have gotten closer I have observed that she has been catching onto the subtle hints that I keep dropping onto her. She's surely doing her bit to wrap her fascinating head around the connection, brewing up in between of us. She surely knows – it isn't just Friendship, brewing up from my end for Her, just like I surely know that it isn't just that for her as well – anymore.

And how do I know.? Even though she hasn't voiced it out as openly to me yet.I know, because I can read her Unsaid right.I truly can see through her every silent gesture, nonetheless. Her innocently expressive bewitching eyes talk to me in a language of their own, when I look into them.

I know, she is falling for me as well – maybe she isn't as deep into me, as I am into her already, but it's a progress I am happy with – nonetheless.

And well – what can I say, about the way's in which I have fallen even more deeply and crazily for My Clueless Cinderella. Did you all notice the change from Miss. To My in the Clueless Cinderella bit?

Yup.

Now you know why I started with the statement – Its Crazy, how Crazy I am about her.

Well anyways back to the point off telling you all honestly – how deeply I have fallen for her over the course of this another happy, peaceful month. So, basically, if I were to try to summarise it all up in one phrase, then I would just say, something I texted her as well last night, because the minute I had seen her on the Video Call after like a week, that was the first thought that came into my Head and Heart. Which thought? – the thought that she is the one, who is responsible for all the fire- crackling lighting in my World. She truly does light up my World in the ways I cannot really describe in words completely because it's surely something I have truly never felt before. And since everything about her was like a source of Sparkle, in my Life – it was about time, that I told her that.

I am so freaking Glad that I did – last night.

It was a Bummer that I missed seeing her adorable expression though – that would have come up her face as she read that bit from me over text. Can totally imagine, it within the walls of my head though. And well, just this one thought is enough to open the window and let the zillion thoughts pertaining to Khushi – flood through my Head and Heart.Thoughts that are always at the back of my head anyway. Because, she's obviously on my mind all the freaking time,( except for the time when I am on the pitch and playing completely consumed in my love for the game and it's like the very minute I am off the pitch and switched off from the playing cricketing avatar, she is the first one to occupy my thoughts – literally).And I do want to indulge in a little Happiness right now – by reassuring myself, that I think it's also pretty much the same for her, because she did kind off give that away in a little sentence, when we spoke before she left the Hostel for her game this morning.( Arnav, thank you so very much for all the best wishes for the game, and yes I will surely text you the minute I switch on my phone after the game is over, you know since my thoughts anyway trail back to you instantly, the minute I step off the field.)

My Adorable Precious – Sparkle. (She is playing her match right now, everyone. I obviously track up on her game updates, online on the BCCI's website, always. And as of now - Rajasthan Women won the toss and chose to bat first – which means that Khushi's probably stationed in her fielding positions on field right now)

God – I really wish that I could have seen her Play , live today. I really wanted to, but then again, I understand Khushi's concerns about the same as well, and I obviously do not want to do anything that could go back to making her feel all overwhelmed because of my Cricketing Identity.

Well to be honest, it isn't just that I want to see her or something. I am kind off dying to meet her and spend some quality time with just Her, in Real time guys – because that situation is kind off like a important pre-requisite for me right now, because the minute I see her next in real time, is when I have planned to ask her out formally – as in I do want to confess to her that I have fallen for her, and that I want to be with her. And I obviously do not want to confess the same to her – on a videocall/phone call/text.

Maybe..I will figure out a way to see her tonight?I rake up my brains and try to figure out a way. I know she cannot get out of the Hostel once she is in, but maybe before she reaches the Hostel? As in , she is coming to the stadium to the see the match Live right? I mean, there has to be some way out right??

I am right on that thought, when I hear one of my bestest friend's Ravi's voice next to me, as he says grinning – " And I am all set and ready, and looks like so are you Arnav, have you been waiting long?? Everyone's from our team's almost done...another couple of minutes maybe.. "

I grin at him as I say – "haven't been waiting long, just five minutes.."

Everyone – we are in this Huge Banquet of our Hotel, where in the collective Ad -shoot has been organised, in between our three teams who are in the Hotel – just now.(Bangalore, Mumbai and Rajasthan) And there's a smaller area of the banquet that has been sectioned to be like the Green Room, where in all of us players are just undergoing the little process of Getting ready for the Shoot and facing the Camera. We are all in our respective team's Jersey's. I had walked out to wait up for everyone to join me, about five minutes ago – which is how I had a little time out to give you all a glimpse into the walls of my Head.

Ravi folds his hands across his chest casually and grins at me , leaning against the wall, just like me and he asks – " tell me something, what were you so deep in thought about, before I walked out here to join you?? I am sure you aren't reminiscing about the ad-shoot times,in which you met a one-some Miss.Chopra..."

I roll my eyes at him as I admit – " well, I am glad you know very well – that, I am most definitely not reminiscing about that Ravi.."

Ravi grins – " exactly, then what were you so deep in thought about...?? When are you going to tell me – the reason behind why your phone is now like your new found best friend? Huh?? It's been that way for months now, ever since you returned from that little break from Nottingham in Feb...and I have been waiting patiently and observing like a good friend, hoping that you will talk about it to me yourself, but because you still haven't, I think it's about time I questioned you up front about this...."

I chuckle as I look at him – " and of course, you've noticed..."and I pause and I ask – " and I am glad you asked buddy, but please don't tell me you spoke about it to Noor already?? She will drill me about it the minute she sees me next.."

Ravi grins – " well I was thinking about sharing the information with her you know, but then I thought let me talk to you about it first, she's anyway going to get pissed and be like, I am his first cousin and we are so close yet you get to know everything first Ravi and that's only because you guys are all in this Men in Blue – brotherhood..."

I chuckle as I admit – " well yes to that, I can totally imagine Noor saying that.."and I ask pulling Ravi's leg a little bit – " well Akash, Payal and Noor are coming to watch the game tonight, so I bet you are excited..."

Ravi grins and nods – " you bet I am, you know long distance is tough, but if you are with the right person, every second of that effort is freaking worth it..."

I nod at him as I admit – " and I obviously agree with you on that Ravi..."

Ravi turns sideways now and asks – " so cmon, out with it, tell me...I mean please tell me that the reason why you are into your phone so much is because, you'v met someone..." and he winks and adds – " Rohan and me are betting on the fact that you met this secretive someone on that little time out in Nottingham..."

I grin as I ask – "really so Rohan's been wondering about this too??"

Ravi nods and he admit with another wink – " actually to be honest, me, Rohan and Cap – the three of us have been discussing this amongst ourselves for quite a while and you go around sticking to your phone in the ways you have, I am sure, Shiv and Veer will catch onto it soon as well..."

I ask with a grin – " really?? What's Cap take on this..."

Ravi grins – " well he obviously agrees with our theory, and he also adds in the fact that he hasn't seen you smiling in the ways you have been, in all these years, even when you were with Pia – so he definitely says that boys, Arnav will definitely talk to us about it when he is ready...but either ways I am just glad that he's met someone who's making him smile all freely and naturally...he does look very happy..."

And right when I am about to say something to him, I see Rohan walk up to us all ready in his Mumbai Team's Jersey and I grin at him and we High-Five and he asks looking at Ravi – " and I am guessing, that you my friend, have finally cornered our friend into talking about what's been on our minds for a bit..."

Ravi chuckles as he nods and admits – "well he was just about to start talking, about it I guess, until now I have just been updating him on the theories in our heads..."

Rohan grins as he says – "c'mon then, start talking Arnav, it's good that I came on in, on the right time..."

I grin as I say – "ok guys, it isn't that I don't want to talk to you guys about it, maybe later tonight...Akash will be there as well...but I can just only drop in a couple of hints, given the situation In the context, for now..."

Ravi and Rohan nod and they say in unison – "a couple of hints is good, and we better get Cap on the con call..."

I nod and We all share a warm laugh.

Rohan grins – "well even though you haven't mentioned anything yet, please know that I have to agree with what Cap says...we surely haven't seen you smile so happily ever Arnav...so I am really happy that this development's in the process...", and he pats my arm, happily.

Ravi nods – " I agree so too..."

I grin as I pat Rohan's arm back as I pull his leg – " thank you , anyways let's talk about me later...you tell me buddy, the reason for that extra smile up your face is surely because Samaira is the one photographing our ad -shoot..."

Samaira is Rohan's fiancée – everyone. And they are engaged to be married this September. Professionally – she is an amazing freelance photographer. She is also one of my good friends. Co-incidentally she was also the one – who had photographed me and Pia on that previous ad-shoot.(on the one, I first met her)

Rohan grins as he admits with a nod – " of course guys, because this collective ad -shoot lead me to see her for a bit, nonetheless right, before we leave for Mohali, later this afternoon..."

Right then Veer walks out of the Green Room and he joins us as well and we all greet him and we fall into a friendly chatter – and start pulling on Rohan's leg – because he really is the one who needs to be given a lot of instructions every ad shoot to get his framing right and its kind off going to be amusing to see Samaira be the one – to give him the instructions today.

A couple of minutes, later - we all see Samaira walk up to us four, by excusing herself from the camera crew and the PR and marketing crew of the IPL and Rohan instantly engulfs her in a side hug and she hugs him back happily and she asks us all – " ok guys...so we are all set...almost...why are just the four of you here....where is everyone else...c'mon.. we need to hurry up..."

Rohan shrugs as he says faking disappointment , amusingly– " hey you, I thought you took out a moment to be with your fiancé for a bit, but looks like its work that's got your focus...how sad and here I was getting all happy and excited over the fact that I am going to have the love of my life photograph me on this photoshoot...."

Samaira chuckles as she kisses his cheek playfully – " Rohan, please, you know how I am when in work mode, and the reason why I am wanting to get done with all this quick is, so that we can go on that little lunch date, before you leave for Mohali later this afternoon..remember?"

Rohan laces his arm around Samaira's shoulder lovingly as he states – " oh yes...now you are talking...c'mon let's get done with this.."

I chuckle as I admit – "and for that we need our entire units to be out right??"

Ravi grins as he says – "yes my dearest Bhabhi to be – give me a second, let me just go into the green room and remind everyone that we need to get this through on time..."

Veer nods – "yes...ill just pass on the message to the other adjoined green room where the Rajasthan team is, as well..."

Samaira grins now as she says – "and guys while you are at that passing the message bit, please tell the boys that it will be not so gentlemanly of them to keep the ladies waiting...so they better hurry up..."

Rohan and Ravi and Veer and me,ask in unison – " ladies?? Who ladies?? Isn't it just our teams for the photoshoot??"

Samaira smiles as she explains – " well guys, see since this is the ad -shoot promoting the rest of the IPL and the message that a lot of share from the ticket sales will be shared with respective charitable organisations, there will be a couple of people who will be joining us on in the shoot..who are already associated with these charities...so it will be like a collective message.See all the teams in their respective locations are undergoing the same ad-shoot right now and a couple of popular faces will be joining in there as well. Mentioning about the respective charities etc and the association and then we are all going to edit it up and sync all of your video bytes together to make it seamlessly come together into a two minute ad...and since the three of your teams will be talking about the Charitable organisation of 'Fulfil a Wish' that works towards fulfilling wishes of children who are suffering from terminal diseases, we are going to have the girls from Femina Miss India join us, since they've been working with the organisation for a bit now...they arrived earlier this morning and are here only in the Hotel room, just getting ready for the same, in fact I just got a text that they will be down here in a couple of minutes..."

Ravi asks concerned – "how many of them are joining??bhabhs...you know I got to text Noor about this before the shoot begins, or she will be like..why didn't you tell me...you know she gets that tad bit insecure when she sees models around me on shoots...."

Ok guys, now that Ravi mentioned this. I think, I do want to drop in Khushi a text about the same, as well. Because, I had no clue about this development myself, so I could obviously not update her about it as well.

Samaira chuckles as she explains – " yes Ravi, I know...so there are three..Ayana Mehra, who is the current Femina Miss India, and then there is Nikita Khanna who is the first runner up and then the second runner up is Mehr Kapoor..."

Ravi nods as he says – " Kool...ill just text her the same, while I call on everyone.."

Rohan chuckles as he says to Veer – "Veer, stop grinning like a idiot, c'mon..."

Veer chuckles – "well why shouldn't I grin like an idiot? I am single and well this ad shoot just got super interesting...".

We all share a warm laugh and Ravi and Veer, make their way in to call the rest of the boys.

And as Samaira, Rohan start to ask me about Akash now, I get into a conversation with them, but I do dish out my phone and take out a couple of minutes to drop in Khushi a text over the development.

I know she will see it when she switches on her phone.

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

At 1230PM – Jaiput, Rajasthan

Hridhaan Singh Rajput, resumes his driving and increases up the volume of the Music, and starts to hmm to it Happily, basking in the happiness that was consuming his being – after a good practice session of his favourite game, of Polo. The Game of Polo, had been his passion and ambition, all his Life, and it had fascinated him greatly ever since he was a child and had seen his mother pursue it as her hobby/leisure.

He had gotten into horse-riding and training for sport at an early age as well, all because of the support and encouragement from his loving parents. And it was because of this encouragement from his family – that had helped him balance out his education alongside his love for the game of Polo. Because he belonged to a Business family – which had its strong base, in the Hotels and Hospitality industries, all over Rajasthan – he had obviously pursued his higher studies in the field of hospitality management and had lived in London within the age of 18-23, completing his under graduation and master's on the same, alongside continuing with his training in Polo in London and eventually also played as an active member of the Guards Polo Club, UK.And around three years ago, he had finally returned back to India on the completion of his education because he had always wanted to play POLO, professionally representing India on the world's Game map .And the shift was easy to make Game wise as well – because his hometown Jaipur, was one of the central points of everything related to the Sport of Polo, in India. (It was where, he had trained for the game, half his life anyway, until 18).So the decision to return back home, was a one – he had made Happily. He did assist his father in the family business, as much as he could part time, when he wasn't occupied with his professional game commitments to Polo, and his family had always been supportive about his decision to have the Game – as his professional Priority.

And in the present day today at the age of 26, because of all the gruelling hard work ,determination and sweat that he poured into training and improving in his game – Hridhaan is one of the star player's for the National Indian Polo Team and had also been an active member of the National Squad, representing India in the Polo World Cup, in 2017, and ever since then his presence in the national team is integral. He also continues to play in the domestic circuit for the Jaipur Riding and Polo club, and in the international circuit off – the various clubs associated with the Jaipur Polo club - at times too.( the Guards Polo Club that he had been an active member off in the UK was also associated with the Jaipur Polo and Riding Club)

There are a lot of theories about the origin of the game of Polo.Some say it originated from Persia, some even say that its widely believed that a traditional game played in between the locals in Manipur , India -was what inspired the development of Field Polo, which is team sport – played mounted on Horsebacks, and the Britisher's then popularised it worldwide. However, irrespective of the various theories about it's origin, it is believed to be one of the world's oldest known team sport.

In India, Polo had always been one of the 'Niche' sports – that had always been more popular amongst the army and the royalties, ever since its earlier days of inception. (Since it had the nickname off – Sport of Kings). However, in the year 1992 the IPA(the Indian Polo Association) completed 100 years and since then Polo is on an upward trend in the country. Today there are about 35 plus Polo Clubs registered with IPA, with about 200 plus players of Polo professionally, in the country. It is also one of the Sports which is also called out as an 'Equal' Sport since both male and females are allowed to compete and play together. And even though it's a Game – that does not have the immense mass attention in India – it continues to thrive and grow within its gaming community, nonetheless.

Hridhaan , smiles to himself as he reduces the volume of the music in his car,putting on the speaker off his phone, as it rings, bringing his SUV to a halt on the traffic signal. Just as he does, he hears his mother's happy voice fill through the car – "Hridhaan, please tell me you are on your way to pick up Shivani."

Shivani was his Younger sister, and the apple of his Eye. He doted on her immensely as an elder brother, also because they had a vast age difference and she was about 11 years younger to him.( Currently 15)

Hridhaan answer's happily – "yes Maa, I am on my way...should be there in another ten minutes or so..."

He hears his mother's happy voice come through – "great and then the two of you brother and sister, please come home for lunch...straight away...ok??also, how was practice for you beta? Shivani's surely jumping up and down in the ground watching the women's domestic cricket match in between of Rajasthan and Delhi women...she's also so excited to go for the IPL match tonight with you as well...I keep telling your father, it's good that she is exploring her interest in both cricket and Polo...because only if she explores more will she be able to decide which sport is the one she wants to pursue, more professionally....you know I keep telling him, he shall in no way ever try to pressurise the two of you from looking away from your love for sports and join him in the family business...I mean...he's the one that can continue running his Hotels...my son will play his game on that horseback of his, as long as he wishes too, and my daughter will pick up the bat if she wants to, or sit on the horseback like her brother...it's her choice...my children are going to live their lives living their dreams...always.."

Hridhaan chuckles as he admits – " and I'd like to thank you for your endless support as always Maa, actually on that note Dad too, he's always been so supportive, he knows the Polo field is exactly where I belong, and only just part time in the boardrooms, so yeah..I don't know what pressure are you talking about......and yes Maa...the Polo practice was good today..and on that note, I do think Shivani's professionally more interested in cricket and just plays POLO for leisure as well, just like how I play cricket for leisure at times, but professionally, it is Polo for me...and I agree with you, in the end I am going to encourage her to follow her choices, and back her up in the same..."

His mother – " yes Hridhaan, I have observed the same as well...I do think she's more interested in picking up the Bat, professionally"

Hridhaan says now, as the signal turns green – " ok how about this Maa...let's talk the rest once we are home, c'mon the red lights turned green..."

His mother – " oh yes...please..no talking while driving...carry on...see you soon beta...love you.."

Hridhaan – " love you Ma...", and he hangs up, and turns up the volume of the music back up, as he continues to drive towards one of the smaller cricketing grounds, where his little sister was watching the live cricket match. He looks at the time on the clock.It was going to be 1240pm, the match was scheduled to finish at around 1pm anyway. He was going to reach there soon – which meant that he might just get to witness the last couple of overs of the game, alongside his sister as well.

Cricket was another one of his favourite games, and even though he played only leisurely, he did follow it up greatly and was an ardent admirer of the professional cricketer's of the country.Since he was a sportsperson himself, sportsmanship was what he valued greatly, and he had a great deal of respect for every sportsperson – irrespective of their gender, and has always been a great admirer of women in the field of Sports – as well.

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

Authors Note** - Attaching a Little Video about Polo incase any of you are interested...and do want to imagine our tricky bouncer/speedbreaker Hridhaan Singh Rajput..playing a Game ( wink wink)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrJ6WdoM8zQ

........

A couple of minutes later, Hridhaan gets off his car and locks it up and makes his way quickly to the cricket ground. He spots his sister in the sidelines easily (because it isn't very crowded)along with her best friend Naina, who was also a cricket enthusiast and had been training alongside Shivani.He wades his way through the little crowd of the group of girls, who he reckoned were seeking training under the head coach of the Rajsthan's women's domestic team as well, since they were the main spectators of the match – undergoing right now, along with just the formal support units, coaches etc of both the domestic teams from Delhi and Rajasthan.

He finally takes a seat on the empty chair next to his sister Shivani as he says grinning, leaning into her ear – " Shivi, I am confused, are you happy or are you sad right now?? Because you have this smile on your face but frown lines are evident on your forhead as well..."

Shivani looks at her brother and she shrugs and admit, hugging him sideways – " a little bit of both bhai, and its amazing that you came now, like just in time, only three balls to go, I am sad because I think delhi is going to win this, and I am happy because I have just become a huge fan of that batswoman on the crease right now, batting for Delhi, she's been playing amazingly bhai, like she opened the innings for Delhi and the Chase of 150 plus isn't like very easy ok...but she's batted freaking beautifully in wonderful partnerships with her teammates, with the perfect balance of aggression and strategy, and bhai...her sixes..dude...she's freaking hit four of them already in the game..."

Her best friend, Nanina chips in – " well you can obviously see the disappointment in the body language of our rajasthan team players bhai...and also the coaches...and the support team..they are obviously upset..."

Hridhaan smiles as he says – " yes, but the team is making to the semi's anyway right, nonetheless.."and he looks up at the manual scoreboard being maintained as he says – " and hey there's still some hope, I mean Delhi does need 10 run in three balls..."

Shivani rolls her eyes – " and that's going to be easy peasy for them bhai..as in they are just 140-3 which means both the batswomen are on crease no...and specially that one jersey no 22, Gupta..she's on 65 now...playing with so much momentum...she's surely going to go in for the big shots..."and she pauses as she says – "there you go...look at how fast she's taken the double in between the wikctes...now 2 balls 8 runs..she's going to go in for a boundary next I am sure..."

Naina – " and guess what, she also plays for India women, she got selected into the national squad..a couple of months ago only..."

Hridhaan nods, observing the batswoman's confident and calm stance from afar, as she is discussing something mid pitch with her partner ,and then walking back to the crease– " okkk, which is great...lets see the shots she's got up her sleeve then..."

Shivani holds onto her brother's hand happily – " okkk...last two balls...here it goes....technically I should be wishing for her to get bowled out no bhai...but she's been playing so brilliantly...I don't think I want to wish for the same..."

Hridhaan ruffles his younger sisters hair happily.

And they all watch in awe as the batswomen perfectly times the outswinger delivery for a controlled – cover drive, straight through the ropes for a four. And they see the rest of the Delhi team celebrate the shot and cheer her on.

Shivani nudges her brother – " wasn't that a brilliant cover drive bhai?? Almost a shot as controlled and good as the one your favourite Skipper ASR plays..."

Hridhaan nods impressed – " I agree Shivani, that was an amazingly controlled shot,she did read the ball and time it perfectly..."

Naina – " and well now I am pretty sure by her body language that she will aim for a sixer, maybe another pull shot..."

Shivani says excited – " And I hope it comes this way into the stands for I surely want to try catching it..."

Hridhaan says – " shivi...relax...ok?"

Shivani rolls her eyes at her brother – " bhai..cmon..its one of the fun things, whilst watching the match no..."

And right then they are all distracted as the last ball is bowled and as rightly predicted by Naina, they all see jersey no 22 batswoman, fire up the ball straight into the air in a massive pull shots – that also ends up making its way straight into the crowd where, Shivani, Nanina, Hridhaan were seated.

Because Shivani was already excited about catching on the ball, but while she was making the attempt, the ball does bounce of her hand and hits her forhead accidentaly and she does flinch on impact as she says – " owwww....."

Hridhaan takes the ball from his sisters hands worriedly as he asks – " shivi you ok??"

Shivani nods, rubbing on her forehad – " yes bhai..just a brush no...stop worrying...cmon give me the ball..i am going to keep it..."

Hridhaan nods and looks back on the field and is expecting to see the sight of celebration amongst the two Delhi batswomans, but he is happily surprised to see that batswoman with the Jersey no 22 , first took off her gloves and tucked her bat under her arm and shook hands with the Wicket keeper of the rajasthan team and also the bowler who had bowled the last over.

He was a sucker of Sportsmanship, and he was happy to see a player so humble in victory as well. He continues to watch on keenly from far now, expecting the player to get consumed with her team that had rushed to the ground for celebrations...but once again he is happily surprised to see this batswoman pat on her partners arm, talking to her discreetly and then she starts to make her way to the crowd in the stands, exactly where they were seated.

She hadn't even taken off her Helmet yet.

Shivani asks excited to Naina and her brother – " bhai, naina, do you see what I see?? Is she making her way towards us??"

Hridhaan nods, puzzled – " yes I guess she is shivi, but I wonder why..."

Naina says excited – " And we will know soon, because she is just ten seconds away from us..."

Hridhaan nods and right then they all see, the batswoman reach them and she says, keeping her eyes on Shivani – " hey..are you ok?? I mean I had my eye on the ball as I fired up that last pull shot and I think I saw it hitting your head maybe...so I just thought ill check in on you, you aren't hurt much are you?? if yes..then I can call in my teams first aid team to help you out..."

Hridhaan watches on impressed.Did she really pause on her victory celebrations to come and check on a spectator, she thought got hurt by her shot? – The gesture simply meant, that behind this helmet was also a sportswoman with a compassionate and kind heart.

Shivani says excited – " no, not at all...it was just a brush...it was my fault for trying to catch it...can I keep the ball? Pls? and I simply loved the way you played today...it was amazing...and my name is Shivani...and you are khushi right?? you play for India women too, you know it is my dream to play for India one day too..."she offers her hand out for a shake excited.

Hridhaan watches, the batswoman finally take off her Helmet now and he finds himself looking into not only a very pretty face, but also a set of compassionate expressive eyes, backed by one of the most heartfelt smile's he'd ever seen in a long time.

Khushi was a very nice name as well – he thinks to himself.

He watches on silently observing the exchange as he sees Khushi shake his sister's hand happily – " thank you so much for that Shivani,so very glad that you enjoyed watching the game...and yes I am khushi and I play for India women too... it's so great that you want to play for India, how old are you??"

Shivani beams happily – " I just turned 15 and I am undergoing a lot of training as well...when did you start playing in the domestic set up??if you don't mind me asking??"

Khushi grins – "why would I mind you asking Shivani, so I started to play for Delhi formally when I was 16, so guess what, maybe next year, I look forward to see you as a part of the Rajasthan unit as well...and hopefully with some more time down the line, we shall play for India togther...k??i mean, that is, if I am able to retain my spot on the national squad..."she finishes with a playful wink at Shivani and adds with a heartfelt smile – " believe in your dreams ok?? they will take you exactly where you are meant to go..."

Shivani nods excited completely in awe of the positive encourgament and she says excited - "I will...can I have a picture with you Khushi.."

Khushi nods and SHivaani ssays to her brother – " bhai cmon, please take a pic of me and Naina with Khushi..."

Hridhaan nods and he quickly snaps a picture and then finally puts his hand forward for a shake towards Khushi and says – " hello Khushi, I am Hridhaan, shivani's brother....thank you so very much for being so supportive and encouraging towards my little Shivi...and that was a brilliant last over from you...indeed..."

Khushi shakes hands with Hridhaan as she says – " thank you...so very much..."

Hridhaan says now – " and not just a great batswoman, you are also an amazing sportsperson, it isn't very often that I see someone pausing to shake hands with the opponents team first, before celebrating their victory...that bit usually comes after a little victory celebration..."

Khushi smiles to that as she admits – "thank you so much once again, Hridhaan.."

Shivani says excitedly – " my brother plays for India too, but not cricket...he plays POLO...he's part of the national squad as well..."

Khushi looks at Hridhaan as she says with a genuine smile – " wow...Polo...that is amazing, I mean I don't know the complete details of the game, like the rules and stuff but its one of the games that my Dad also watches, so I have observed on at time, it's really intriguing...tell me something, they do say that both men and women can compete in a match of field polo together right??"

Hridhaan nods as he says with a smile – " yes, indeed...we have some amazing women players playing professionally in our Jaipur riding polo club as well...we do play together as well..."

Khushi nods at him and then turns to Shivani and asks – " you ever played Polo as well??"

Shivani nods – " yes I do so too, but more like for leisure...actually to be honest, sometimes I do get confused in between which one I want to take on more professionaly, as in cricket or polo..."

Khushi smiles as she says – " well its natural to feel that way since you are so young, so don't beat yourself for the confusion ok?? instead accept it..and eventually discover about what you are more happy playing...and then maybe go for that one in the long term...or maybe you know what ill give you another one of my tips which I used long ago, while I was a little confused whther to pursue swimming or cricket...I tossed a coin, ok? and assigned head to one and tails to the other...and when the coin was in the air, I had my answer...because I knew it instantly in my heart, what I was hoping for, as in when the coin was in the air...I literally found myself thinking, god let it be heads, for that was what I assigned to cricket...and bammm...I had my answer....."

Hridhaan smiles as he says – " ok...that is seriously really kool adivice...Shivi..why didn't I ever think of that??"

Shivani grins as she says to her brother – " I know right....omg Khushi...thank you so much for this...it was amazing to meet you...are you coming to the IPL game tonight?? I mean we are going too..."

Khushi nods as she says with a smile – " yes all of us the full team will be there...",and right then she hears Jess and Hina call out her name from afar and she says to everyone – " ok everyone, I gotta rush now, for the post match presentation and everything...nice meeting you all...",and she shakes hands with Shivani, Naina, Hridhaan again and smiles at them politely and then turns around and runs her way back into the ground to join the rest of the team.

Shivani and Naina are busy chatting amongst themselves, excited.

Hridhaan looks on behind her sprinting figure, with a puzzled smile up his face.Puzzled why? Because, he didn't know why he had a thought come into his head – that was wishing for another coincidental encounter into Khushi, at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium tonight.

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

30 Minutes Later

Khushi's POV

Hina and Jess lace their hands through both my arms as we walk back , grinning to our smaller dressing room.

Guyssssssss!!!!! We won the Match.We are going to be playing Maharashtra in the Semi's in three days from Now – on the 27th April, in Delhi.

Hina grins as she says – " and what a brilliant partnership we had towards the end Khushi...so happy that we won this game..."

Jess grins – " and another player of the match award for you Khushi...oh my god trust me guys when the two of you were out there on the last over..it was like all of our stomachs was in our throats, and especially the last three balls....."

Hina grins and winks – " and I had the best seat in the house..."

I chuckle at them happily and hug them to my sides.

Just can't wait to switch on my Phone Guys, and get on text with Arnav about the same, and share all my happiness with him. It was a thrilling game – indeed. His ad-shoot must also be over by now no??

Just as we enter the dressing room, we come across the super excited atmosphere in the dressing room as everyone's busy celebrating and Parul now exclaims happily jumping up and down – " guys....so excited to watch the IPL tonight..without any worry on our minds at all....i mean we surely will return to hardcore practice day after as we return to Delhi tomorrow...but then let's enjoy ya today...I mean we surely deserve this break...its been such a hectic season...."

Nandini my opening partner , walks up to us and High-Fives me and she says – " bingo...can't wait...",and she hugs me tight as she says – " and I am so proud of you for walking up to check on the spectator after that last shot, Khushi..."

I smile as I admit – " how could I not ya? As in, I had my eye on the ball so I definetly saw it hit her forehead, you know its different when something like this misses your eye when it happens in the bigger stadiums, but because the ground was smaller, I caught on that easily and the game had ended as well, so I just felt like, I just had to make sure she wasn't very hurt, we all know how sometimes these ball injuries can be no??"

Hina nods and Jess hugs me from the side once again.

Right then one of the girls say's excited from the background – " omg...omg...omg....guys....you won't believe this...guess what, looks like we are going to see the IPL on the right day...."

We all turn to her as we ask – " what do you mean???"

Aastha(my teammate), whose got her head dipped into the phone says excited – " guys...looks like we might just catch onto some cricketing celebrity gossip tonight...as in I really used to still ship ASR and Pia Chopra getting back together...but looks like that's not happening, because just maybe, Ayana Mehra, who is the current Femina Miss India, might just be the one ASR dates, now..."

Wait.

What?

What did she just Say?

I feel – all the excitement in the pit off my Stomach – dim out.

The Happy – Yo-Yo, halts in its operation immediately.

I try to cover up my body language and smile at everyone and Jess gives me a worried look as she says to Aastha, walking upto her – " what you talking about??"

Aastha gets up and says to jess excited – " well I know Jess, you used to ship ASR back with Pia too...but just look at this....apparently there was this fancy ad -shoot today...and she was a part of it, and not only has she posted in her isnta story how excited she was about the shoot, but also the glimpses of the shoor in progress...and look there are so many pictures...flooding in her story...of the same....and there are a couple of them she's snapped with just ASR, and put all these blushing emoticons in her insta story saying, how she is so happy to meet her cricketing crush...etc etc....",and she turns her phone to all of us and I watch on , blankly the Insta Story-Update of Ayana Mehra in which she is stating happily that how she was the No 1 fan of Skipper ASR and was so excited to get to meet him on this ad-shoot, before the start of the shoot – and everything else too as Aastha just voiced, continues to flow through her Insta story – as it ends with her excited gorgeous self saying that she was going to be watching the IPL game tonight as well and was hoping to get some extra time to catch up on with Skipper ASR in the afterparty and everything.

Just as I am processing it all through, I see Parul look into her phone as well as she says – " yup...guys...its going to be fun in the stands tonight for sure....because ever since Ayana posted this on her story about 30 minutes ago, the media, the tabloids have all gone beserk....with the theories of potential link up already.....with some pics from the ad shoot saying...stating things like another potential romance brews up for Skipper ASR, because of the ad -shoots, they'v also started to highlight the pictures of just Ayana and Skipper ASR, from her insta story live....actually they are also highlighting pics of middle all rounder Veer with Mehr...but its Captain's ASR who is amidst the highlight..."

Nandini grins as she says – " ofcourseee ya...the nation was heartbroken after his break up with Pia na guys...its like everyone was waiting for some news to catch up on to start playind cupid already....show me this picture no, that you are talking about Parul, do they look good together..."

Parul nods and turns to the phone to us all and just as my eyes fall on Ayana and Arnav in one frame, (which could be a potential picture), from the photoshoot, its like I have to admit that Ayana really was drop dead Gorgeous.

Ok then.

Guys...To be Honest – I just don't know how I feel about this.

I can't figure it out.

I just feel all Blank – for now.

Its like I am Zoned Out – into a Blankness.

Jess has been giving me worried looks now, and I just shrug at her for now and I excuse myself and walk discreetly towards my locker and Jess follows me and asks whispering softly in my ear – " Khushi...you ok?? you seem so blank....listen it's just gossip...you know how things spread on social media...like surely faster than fire these days....."

I admit honestly, opening up my stuff now and picking up my phone – "yeah...I know....Jess...that's one of the reasons why I am not on it na..."

Jess asks puzzled – " why is your expression so freaking blank ya??"

I admit shrugging – " I don't know ya Jess...I just feel all blank to be honest, maybe that's why..."

Jess says – " ok..switch on your phone...you will surely have some messages waiting from him....i am sure he wouldn't have known about these super models being on the shoot...or he would have told you na..."

I nod my head as I say – " yes...I mean, I do think he didn't know for real....wait, let me just on my phone..."

I take a deep breathe and I switch on my Phone.

And just as I do, I feel notifications of Whtsapp come up instantly and I gesture to Jess that I do have some messages, and she gestures me silently to read them quick.

I nod at her.

Right then coach comes into the dressing room as she says – " cmon girls, hurry up...lets all get set to head back to the Hostel, in ten minutes...."

Everyone nods and starts to wind up. I quickly walk to the washroom area with my phone in hand and first thing out I wash my face, ten times over.

And once I am done. I take a deep breathe as I try to work my head around this weird blankness within me, and open my Whtsapp.

I start to read on the Texts from the TOP.

Arnav's text to me around 10:00 am : hey you...Sparkle, so I have tracked up on your game on the website as usual, and Rajasthan's batting first which means you are all getting ready to field. Well I am sure you are all going to rock it.

I smile on reflex as I read that.

His text to me around 10:20am : Khushi, theres a little development here, that I literally had no clue about until minutes ago. Samaira(our photographer, Rohan's fiancée) just filled us in.So apparently some models from Femina Miss India,will be joining us in on the shoot as well. They will be here in a couple of minutes.I just wanted to drop you a message about the same. We are all ready and the shoot should begin soon.Looking forward to talk to you already.....you better text me the minute the match is over ok? you know your thoughts are at the back of my head right? honestly – I am literally raking my brains thinking to myself if there is any possibility for us to meet tonight...you know I cannot wait to meet You...just You...and Me...

My smile widens as I finish reading that.The Yo-Yo restarts – a tad bit little everyone.

Arnav's text to me around 12:00 PM : hey you Sparkle...or wait, should I say – the rocking little hit girl, the scoreboard on the website tells me that you are freaking killing it on the pitch.Dude you keeping playing with this momentum, and I forsee you getting another player of the match and beat this little hit girl – you surely are in the race of the top three highest run scorers this domestic season.So freaking proud of you.

Ok wait. Guys. I can't believe this – he was literally tracking my game progress , amidst his shoot with all these Supermodels Around.

Jeeezzzz!! The Yo-Yo speedens up in operations a little more.How could it not!!

Arnav's text to me around 12:30 PM : ok...so the games going brilliant Khushi...I do forsee things heading into the last over..just have a feeling you are going to bat throughout..and take Delhi to win today...along with Hina..

Arnav's text to me around 12:40 PM : okkk wait...you are still amidst the game, but I do want to write this. Please text me/call me the minute you are free. Apparently, Ravi's just showed me some activity online, one of the models in the shoot posted some stuff on her Insta Story online, about how she's a big fan of my game and everything before shoot began, and now that she's also posted some pics of the shoot in progress – the online media's got a hold on this.Call me. Message me, the minute you see this.DO NOT SEE THE Stuff online, before talking to me .Please.

My Stomach Knots. Oh Arnav – I think I was destined to see it, before seeing your message.

Arnav's text to me at 1:00 PM : Congratulations on the amazing win Khushi!!! That was a brilliant knock of 75 runs not out...so Happy for You. Ok, listen...the stuff online has just gone beserk. I need to talk to you.Do not pay heed to anything ok? How does the media blow even the casual stuff like this out of proportion.

Arnav's text to me at 1:15PM : where are you Sparkle? Oh amidst the post match presentation perhaps? Please text me the minute you see this.DO NOT GO ONLINE.PLS.i mean not before I tell you about this myself...

Arnav's text to me from ten minutes ago : Ok so the blue ticks haven't come up yet which tell me that the phone isn't on yet and you haven't read any of my messages. I hate that the online media's gossip trail travels faster than the speed of sound/light whichever is faster perhaps? I am waiting for you message...

Yup.

That was the last text that I had received.

I take a deep breathe and just as I am amidst typing out the reply, his text comes.

Him : Khushi...thank god!! Congratulations on the amazing Win...send me a picture of your player of the match award ..asap...k?

I reply.

Me : thank you so much Arnav...yes...I surely will send you a picture soon...

Him : You have no idea how I have been eyeing my phone to spot you online.i need to talk to you.Can I call you? did you read all my messages? some massive mess has stirred up online...no...Don't go Online on the daily's online websites also...k? you have no idea how I am thanking my stars that you aren't active on insta or fb or even twitter for that matter...I obviously want to be the one to tell you about this..

I reply honestly.

Me : Arnav...actually...I already saw it all...by chance..the girls were talking about it in the dressing room...I mean I hadn't turned on my phone by then....so...yeah...I already know what you are talking about...

Him : wait?????? What???????? holy Crap!!! Khushi..i am so sorry...can I call you...?

I type out honestly.

Me : why are you sorry ya Skipper Blue, its not your fault ya...like I understand...that...I mean its just online media's way of blowing up stuff...it had happened the last time as well when the very first pics of Pia and you went viral from the ad shoot...so yeah...

Him : where are you?? I am calling you...are you ok??

Me: I am in the dressing room right now.No...please don't call me right now Skipper Blue.. as in I am in a rush..need to head back to the team bus..so that we can be on our way to the Hostel..

Him : I hate that you called me Skipper blue and not Arnav in the last two texts. And I also hate the fact that you avoided answering the last bit off – where I asked you..if you are ok?.Answer me dammit. I care about you...are you ok?

Me : (I send him a thumbs up and a smiley emoticon)

Him : what does that mean?

Me : that means I am ok Skipper Blue(I add a smile)

Him : you are lying Sparkle. You do know I can see right through you. I know this has scared you and made you nervous. I am sorry...so so sorry... please say something..dammit...

Right then I hear Hina calling out to me and I quickly type.

Me : Skipper Blue..i gotta rush now...give me some time...ill call you when I am in the hostel... in the room..ok?

Him : we won't chat from the bus? As in we always chat when you are on your way back from matches on the team bus...

Me : I don't know Skipper Blue...to be honest...just give me some time...I will call you....pakka se...

Him : okkk...fine..take your time...but please don't pay any heed to the stuff they are saying online k? none of that is true, none off it is ever going to be true...you know that in your heart...I know...

Me : ok...(Won't reply now)

I take a deep breathe as I quickly keep my phone aside, and return to washing my face a zillion times over – again...as everything that I had seen up Online returns to flash through my Head on it's own Accord..like over and over again.

AND I AM BACK TO FEELING ALL BLANK.

Why am I back to feeling so Blank??

Like there's literally All Silence/Blankness within me just now. The High Courts of the Mind + Eyes+ the rest of the organs + the Supreme Courts of the Heart – like everything is back to be being Stunned by a Sudden Silence.

Maybe, because for the first time ever - as I look at my anguished face's reflection in the mirror – I don't know, if that's just water glistening in my eye or is it a pool of Tears???????

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

TADAAAAA!!!!!

Let me know what you guys think as always, you all know I love reading your feedback and comments.

Also did any of you think that Hridhaan would be like this Star Polo Player for India as well???? 😜😜😜😜😉😉 cmon ya guys we have to trouble Skipper Blue...too...a little bit no..😜😜😜

Next Update : Friday Night- Guys

** Edited by the FF DT**

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.