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

He is trying to explain about the media coverage, but she is still in the blank state. Hopefully she will listen to him.

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee...

SURPRISEEE!! SURPRISEEE!!

So here I am with the Next Update...it's a short 4K plus Words update guys... Actually the plan was to Give a Full Fledged Update tomorrow...but then somehow as I finished writing this Bit..i wanted to Post this bit as a – Stand Alone Update.

You will know why – as you read the Update.

Will be Eager to know what you all think.

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

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 18 – JUST NOT A FOUR LETTER WORD....ANYMORE?

24th April, 2019

Two Hours Later – 3:30 PM

ITC, Rajputana

Arnav's POV

Three Hours.

= 180 Minutes.

= 10,800 Seconds.

Yup.

That's precisely exactly how much time has passed, since I have been consumed with immense worry. An intense worry – that is chewing up on my insides. A worry mode, which I haven't been able to get in Control, even though I have tried. Which means, that I have not been able to Smile at all from the heart at all. The thin, polite smiles that marks my Lips right now, as I am finishing a late lunch with the rest of my Bangalore team-mates, happens to be the Pretended One – which I am putting on as a Mask, so that no one else can catch on to the Turmoil, consuming me, from the insides. And to be honest – its like my appetite is kind of Half – Dead anyway. Remember how I mentioned once that Tricky thing about Worry?. How it has the power to snatch away the peace and serenity of the Present? Yup. Once again, from my experience within these Crazy Worrisome Moments – I can confidently confirm that the Premise I had once made about, Worry – stands totally true.

Well to be honest – it isn't that there isn't anyone around me who isn't aware about the State of my Insides. Two of my closest friends, Rohan and Ravi, had caught onto it immediately the minute it had set in around three hours ago – when I had started to type into my phone and have my eye on it, very worriedly. (Ever since Ravi showed me all the crazy activity stirring up online – linking me up with Ayana Mehra). They had been by my side in the moment – so it was obvious of them to catch onto it easily. They have both been really supportive in the situation, asking me to not give too much heed to it all, and even assured me – that things would be ok, once I had the talk with my secretive someone. Infact, even Akash, Anjali, Mom had called me around 1pm when the activity online had caught there eyes – to check with me if I was Ok?. Because they obviously are aware, how I am not a big fan of all the limelight with regards to anything, apart from my game. I had obviously assured them, that there was no truth in at all and it was all just a rumour and gossip – stirring up online, for no reason.

And there's also someone else, someone very important who is also aware of the Worrisome state I am in – i.e – My Secretive Someone. My Sparkle - Khushi. Just like I am aware that she is probably in a super nervous, state right now herself. All this unexpected nonsensical Noise online – has surely thrown her off Guard, as she's probably trying to wrap her head around it and process it through.

Guys.

I would do just about anything just now – to get a peek into Her head. To just talk to her.And I hate the fact that I haven't been able to yet, properly. After that little chat I had with her when she was in the Dressing Room, after the game – I had been hoping to get on a call with her, the minute she was back in the Hostel, but could not get on the call but she did text me around 2:10 PM and we did get onto a little chat.

Let me give you all Glimpse into my Chatbox with Khushi, since as I am sipping on my water – I have picked up my phone, to just check if she has messaged me with a text saying that – we are good to connect on a call.

Nope.

There isn't a new text from her yet.

I scroll up to read through the Little Chat we had as she had texted me when she had reached the Hostel.

Khushi and My – Chat from 2:10 PM

Her : Skipper Blue..we are just reaching the Hostel in like 5 mins. I know I told you that I will call you from the room, however everyone's first getting together to eat Lunch, so maybe after...also...before I get down the bus, and get surrounded by everyone..I just wanted to know, if you are ok?? as in – I do know you are not a big fan off being in the limelight because of anything else apart from your Game..soo...yeah...you ok?

** please note – at this point, I had felt a lot of emotions gush through my Heart, because I was way beyond touched as I had read,that from her. She was concerned if I was ok? even though she was probably feeling all Nervous, herself. I had obviously written her a reply – at the Speed of Light**

Me : and I need to know, if you are ok?? That's all care about.You.You know that don't you?.I am anyway accustomed to dealing with all this Online Noise.But I am so freaking nervous and worried the hell right now, because you'v gone all silent on me about how you are feeling about the same...and Its killing me. Please, don't call me Skipper Blue -in the next text. Call me Arnav.Just once.Please.and talk to me...

Her : Arnav..

** please note – at this Point, when she finally called me by my name, I felt like I could finally take a relaxed breath.**

Me : Sparkle, I am sorry.So dammit Sorry, that you found out about this Nonsense, before I could tell you about it...freaking hate the fact that things just spurred out of control..

Her : Arnav...I do not want to lie to you ever...it's like I just can't...I also don't want to hide anything from you..ever...

Me : yes..please...talk to me...what's on your mind?

Her : to be very honest...the real reason why I am not able to tell you, how I am feeling about all of this – is because, I just don't know. I really don't know...

Me : I can sense that you really mean what you just wrote, Sparkle..

Her : yes Arnav..I mean it. I am sorry, but literally right now – I have zero reaction spurring up in my head about this, it's like there's something that's gone all Blank, because this was so unexpected and sudden. You know like some sort of a Black Out button has been pressed on that remote control. Maybe, because I am just trying to process and absorb this all through..i am trying to figure things out..for real...please give me some time...would that be ok? I am thinking, I will catch up on a nap after a quick lunch. I am feeling a little exhausted from the physically draining innings as well...I think I will be in a better state to talk about this, once I sleep it out for a bit...

** please Note – at this Point, all I obviously cared about was her Comfort**

Me : yes ofcourse Sparkle, I understand.The match was gruelling as well.This was too sudden and unexpected, I agree. Ok have your lunch, and rest and sleep it out and message me when you are up, we will get on a call then..

Her : yes, we surely will get on a call then Arnav..ok..reaching the hostel now...lets connect later...bbye for now..(won't reply now)

Me : bbye for now Khushi...speak soon

But as Khushi had mentioned, she had not replied to that text.And yes, I haven't yet received a text from her yet. I look at the time on my phone.

Its 3:45 PM. She's probably still in the middle of the Nap, which I am hopinghelps her feel better about the situation.Well, the only saving grace for my worry was that atleast, Khushi had talked to me about what she was feeling.( I do hate the fact that she is feeling all Blank because of me. I would never want her to feel that way, because of me ever.All I want to do, is to make her happy. I want to treasure her, cherish her – make her feel like the most special one on the planet)

I keep my phone back aside, and try to mask my worried sigh by sipping on some water again calmly, as I see the rest of my team finishing up on their meals as well – continuing to chat on happily.( Everyone's also still talking about how amazing the Photoshoot went)

I spot Ravi looking at me from across. He has been shooting me worried silent glances from across the table, asking me to not worry much, and that everything will be ok, everytime he has spotted me eye my phone worriedly, throughout lunch. He now silently gestures towards my phone kept on the side next to my plate to ask me If I have a fresh update from my secretive someone yet?

I shake my head in a slight No.

Right then, we are all distracted, as the Mumbai team players step into the restaurant to meet and greet with us all for a couple of minutes since they are scheduled to leave in 30 minutes from now.

I get up from my seat as well and start to mix up with everyone. I needed the Distraction.

Minutes later, Rohan does gesture me to come to the side and I nod at him and Ravi joins us as well and Rohan asks , concerned – " everything ok?? you heard from her yet??"

I admit honestly – " not really...I mean we did get on a little chat, but haven't been able to talk, she's had a hectic day as well...she's catching up on nap right now...hopefully should be able to talk to her in a bit..."

Rohan pats my arm – " don't worry Arnav..i am sure she will understand that its all just nonsensical gossip..."

I nod as I admit, emotions gushing through me, and a little smile does curve up my lips as I say – " well she did text me to check on me if I was ok as well, as in she does understand that I am not a big fan of this limelight on anything apart from the games..."

Rohan asks surprised – " did she now?? Even though she's probably a little shaken herself...you gotta hold on to her, then? Seems like the bond you both have nurtured is special, indeed..."

I smile a little on reflex as I admit – " oh yes...it surely is special...super special..."and worry returns as I admit to my friends – "I am just so worried that all this crazy online noise may just scare her away, before I could even kickstart things for us officialy, what if all this just ends up overwhelming her on another tangent..."

Rohan sighs as he says – " well your worry is obvious, since the stuff has gone even more beserk online...infact Samaira and me were just discussing the same...it's like the gossip of the day the online media has clawed its nails into...and you spoke to her for what like four minutes just perhaps? That too in the presence of us all, in a causal normal introduction..."

I nod as I say – " I think it was just about a little three minutes over..."

Rohan says, puzzled himself – " I swear, I think I wont be able to understand the workings of this online stuff, in this life.."

I nod – " me too buddy...me too..."

Ravi sighs, looking into his phone – " yup me too...it's only getting worse...god...look at all these articles brewing up...trying to put out every theory online....and ofcourse Ayana's insta feed is flooded with questions about you as well...if the two of you hit it off at the first meet for real...etc etc...but I am glad she isn't replying to any...but now the online media is just assuming her silence to be like a way of being all Coy about it all...perhaps...."

I sigh as I say – " and of course the media doesn't care...how much damage could their speculations, be actually doing to our respective personal lives in retrospect in the background...freaking sucks..."

Rohan and Ravi both nod at me as they say – " don't worry...it will be ok...lets just hope that you are able to speak to her soon..."

Right then a couple of our team mates and our assistant coach for the Bangalore team also walks up to us all and he says – " ASR, after the Mumbai boys, leave...coach's asking if its ok to prepone our strategy meeting? We had scheduled for around 5ish...but is it ok if we do it in between of 4- to 5 pm instead?? Coach suggests that everyone just chill and relax after 5..since we will leave for the stadium at around 630 anyway..."

Great. Distraction myself and pouring/diverting my Attention to Cricket was the only thing that could make me feel a lot better – perhaps?

I nod at him as I say – " yes, that would be great...please tell Coach, that we will all just see of the Mumbai team, and get together for the meeting immediately...ill just talk to the boys..."

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

5 : 00 PM – ITC, RAJPUTANA

Arnav's POV Continues

I walk into my room and close the Door shut. The strategy meeting went out great , and it served us at exact distraction I had needed. But now, that I am back to my room and all by myself since everyone's just retired to their rooms to just relax and freshen up and get ready as we all have planned to meet in the Hotel's lobby by around 615PM, so that we can leave for the stadium at around 630PM.. I find myself being consumed with a Intense Worry again.

Why?

Because Khushi hasn't texted me at all – still.

I literally walk ahead, and hold up my phone around in the air, you know just incase my Signal was faltering, and that could be the reason – why hadn't I received her text, perhaps?

Nope.

Signal's full.

For my Whtsapp just tings with Anjali and Akash's message on our siblings group – and they are both sharing their disappointment over how the Online Media has just gone – Insane today, as they check up on me again, asking me not to read on the latest string of theories, that Ayana's fans were conjuring up on her Insta – Online, which was the base of the fresh articles being conjured up even more now.

I quickly text them back and assure them that I was Ok,and that I was obviously not paying any heed to it all, and was concentrating on the game ahead.Surely going to Channelise all My energies into it.

Akash texts that they were all a little delayed due to traffic, and that Payal, him and Noor – would come to stadium direct.

I continue to chat with them for a couple of minutes, and then I walk up to my washroom to freshen Up.A couple of minutes later, as I stand in front of the Mirror and wash my face a couple of times, I find some questions lingering on my Mind – as I am surprised to see the level of anguish, the worry, the pain( of not being able to connect with Khushi after 2pm), on my face and in my very own eyes.

Why am I feeling this Disturbed??

Even though, I know – that she isn't like mad at me or something, and probably just still hasn't woken up from her Nap.

Why do I see so much Anguish in my eyes?

Why is there this level of Pain, surrounding the Worry that's consumed my Heart?

I have never freaking felt like this – ever before. Like I surely, did not even feel even five percent of hurt/worry when I had found out that Pia had cheated on me.

As in, everyone – what I mean to say is, that never have I ever felt so disturbed at not being able to connect to anyone.(in a span of Three hours).Never have I ever felt myself aching this way to just do about anything, to just hear someone's voice.

I haven't spoken to her after 210 Pm, and given the current situation, it feels like - I can't take it.

I just can't freaking Take It.

I mean I am into her, Insane – I know that. I have fallen for her in the ways, I have never fallen for anybody – yes Indeed. But now that I am looking at myself in the mirror and looking at all this anguish and pain on my face and just looking back in retrospect at everything I have been feeling since Noon today as this weird fear, and worry of losing Khushi and our special connection, continues to eat me up – I realise instantly, that I haven't just Fallen for all deep and Crazy.

I have been feeling this way, as if the worry of loosing her, is going to squeeze my lungs of all air – probably because – for the first time in my life – I have fallen in Love.

I LOVE HER.

GUYS.

Just as the very thought crosses through my Heart, I feel a burst of emotion so deep – that I have never felt before truly.

And even though there is a lot of worry that I still see in my eyes, in the reflection in the mirror, a Smile curves up my lips on its own accord.

Why?

Because, nonetheless the situation - I have just realised for the first time in my Life – that the it's the emotion of Love, that's Gripped my Heart, Insane.

I FREAKING LOVE HER.

Guys.

I AM IN LOVE WITH KHUSHI.

MY KHUSHI.

MY PRECIOUS – SPARKLE.

I feel my Smile widen a little on its own Accord.

I take deep breathes.

Ok Raizada.

Rake Your Brains.

You most definitely have to figure out a way, of making Khushi feel all secured and comfortable about your connection, first – amidst all this Online Noise. That was priority. Second – you have to figure out a way to meet her, so that you can confess out a little bit of your emotions to her, and kickstart things for you both officially. Third - you have to read the situation of her expressive eyes when they talk to you whether you can actually confess your love to her straight away or not, or take it step by step, first – since all of this is so very new to her as well. It's important that you do not scare her and overwhelm her with all your heavy duty emotions.

The immediate task at hand is to – first tackle this Online Drama situation.

You cannot afford to Lose the One Precious girl, your Hearts found its Home in, and fallen in Love with..

Yup.

Guys.

I can't Let go of Khushi.

I am not going to.

How can I let go of the one, I love?

I am right on that thought when my Phone beeps.

I pick it up instantly.

Thank You – God.

Its Khushi.

My World's Just Lit Back Up – as if its Freaking Xmas!

Her : Holyyy Crapp...Arnav...I literally just woke up...messaged you first thing...this Jess also didn't wake me up...like shit shit...shit...like I overslept ya...gosh..i am so sorry....are you getting all ready to leave for the Stadium already? Am I late in messaging you? god, please say that you have some time, I do want to talk to you and wish you all the best for the game ,properly. As in, I do want to talk to you, before you leave for the game..

I smile as I reply.

Ok.

Correction.

I grin as I reply.

Me : hey you Sparkle...I am so glad you messaged. How was the Nap? I hope you feel all fresh? And yes, I still have time, as in, only got to be down in the lobby with everyone by around 615.All strategy meetings over in between 4-5pm.Thank god. To be honest, it was what kept me distracted. Or else time had gone still on me. You know since I wasn't able to connect to you in the given situation. I hated the feeling of being cut away from you in this situation, even though I knew you were just Sleeping...

Her : Arnav...gosh...to be honest, the sleep did me good. I have processed it all through...as in everything that happened....however...I..I...

Me : I..I...what??

Her : I don't why I feel so freaking blank still. I want to talk to you...

Guys – list me as the Highest Ranked – Goner.

Goner in Love.

I grin as I reply : if I say, I want to talk to you...that would be an Understatement Sparkle. Please note - I am dying to talk to you. You are my Sparkle.You texted, and the Light's Lit up all around Me...it was getting quite dark with worry otherwise...

Her : dark with worry??why Arnav??

Me : I have been so consumed with worry and have been feeling like, what if all this nonsensical drama around me makes you wana push me away...i have been so freaking afraid off losing You, Sparkle...dammit...just know...I can't let you go...you are way too special to me...I just can't let go of our connection off Channel 3/App2122...

Her : I am not going to push you away Arnav...I don't think I can...as in I don't want to push you away..I can't.....Channel 3/App 2122 is important and special to me as well...I probably just got to find out a way of figuring my head around all of this unexpected stuff, perhaps?

Me : lets figure it out together perhaps? I need to see you. Can I see you? like can we video call?

Her : yes...maybe we can Arnav...give me five minutes...as in Jess is just leaving to catch up with everyone in the Canteen for the tea and snacks time...ill just quickly freshen up at the speed of light and then text you.k? like just five minutes...give me five minutes...pakka se wala...only five minutes..

Me : really? Pakka se?? only five minutes..

Her : Arnav...stop....ya...there you go taking my case again..ok now let me get off on text if you want me to videocall you quickly...

Me : alrightttyy Sparkle...waiting for you...

Her : see you soon Arnav...(smiley)

I grin as I keep my phone aside and look up at my reflection in the Mirror.

Guys.

Trust me as I say this to you.

I can see my Reflection – grinning back at me like an Idiot.

Dude – now I know why they say, that Love has this Insane Affect over You.Now I know why they say, that Love can come across as just as a normal Four letter word to you, until you feel it consume your heart, in all its Glory. Until, someone comes around and gives that simple Four Letter word – a whole new Meaning and Insight all together.

Guys.

Love – was not Just a Four Letter Word for me Anymore. It had Immense Meaning and Value in my Heart which mainly = Khushi and everything about Her.

I love you – Sparkle.

And now that my Heart had finally found its Home in You and understood for good that You are that someone special, who had come around and given the normal four letter word of Love – a whole New Meaning altogether in my Life - I'd be freaking Dammed, if I didn't give You - My All.

I'd be freaking Dammed - if I let some freaking Virtual Nonsense, mess up the most Real Connection I have ever Had.

I wouldn't let it.

I just Was Not Going to Let it.

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

TADAAAAA!!!!!

How was the Surprise Update??

I just wanted to make it a Stand Alone – because of the Moment's Emotional Significance to Skipper Blue...(wink wink)

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

Next Update : I shall try to give another Update by tomorrow Night or Saturday late evening. Also Sneak Peek. Next Chapter's Title – Some Tricky Speedbreakers 2.0 ( wink wink...wait for it, Guys)

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

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

Like Khushi's new name, sparkle. And she is that.

Both have fallen hard.

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee

SURPRISEEEE!! Surpriseeee!!

Haha. So I have been on a Writing Spree all Day to dish out this next update of 10K words to you all today....so happy that I could put it up before Midnight..hehe...

Will be Eager to know what you all think.

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

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

Characters Appearing/ Mentioned in this Update :

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

...........

CHAPTER 19 – SOME 'TRICKY' SPEEDBREAKERs 2.0

Same day – 5:20 PM

ITC, Rajputana - Jaipur

Arnav's POV

Guys,I used the Five Minutes time interval – that Khushi had wanted, to quickly get Ready in my fresh pair of my Bangalore playing Jersey and get my cricketing kit and everything ready , so that I can now talk to Khushi until the time, I have to head out, for the game.

I am all set and ready now within the time frame of 4mins 50 seconds – and have just plonked up on the Sofa in my room, with my Phone in my Hand, waiting for it to tingle with Khushi's message.

Seriously, everyone - my Heartbeats are Racing, in anticipation. Racing as fast, as if it were on the Need for Speed racing Game, on the PS.

And all of it, in the anticipation , of the emotions that I am going to feel grip my Heart, as I see Khushi now. I mean even though yes, its going to be through screen.But still, that doesn't take away the significance of the moment, right? As In – I am eager to experience, what I am going to feel, as I see her now, because I have now realised and processed the fact that – I am truly and deeply, in Love with Her.

I am right on that thought as my Phone beeps.

It's Her. Obviously.

Her : Arnav...good to connect on the video call now..should I call you?

I obviously ring her up – immediately.

She picks it up in an instant, and just as I see the sight off her face, fill my screen, backed by a nervous anticipatory, heartfelt smile as well,and our eyes lock – I feel my Heart escape a million or no make that a zillion beats all within a fraction of second. Remember how I said just a while ago, that, that text message from her, lit up my world like as if it was Xmas?Yeah? So this very minute as my eyes stay locked with her's and I continue to look into her's in an intense silence, backed by the emotion of love gripping my Heart – it literally feels like as if it's a moment that's got the lightening effect of all the lights that are lit around the freaking Globe on Diwali+ Xmas+ New Year's Eve, combined.

Yup.

That is the exact intensity of the Lightening Voltage with which my World, just lit Up.

And just like that, in a second – we both get into a round of Light laughter, immediately.

Why?

Because, we are both Dressed in the Bangalore Jersey. I am obviously dressed in the full set of it, all set for Play.And Khushi's dressed in the Jersey shirt, that fan's wear to the Games, amidst matches.

Khushi says amongst her mesmerising giggles – " ok, seriously...so, to be honest, Arnav...I was expecting this to happen this time around, since I obviously knew that you are going to be all ready for the game..."

I grin as I admit – " but well, seeing you in the Bangalore jersey, is still a surprise for me, for I wasn't expecting it...and I must say, I like the look of it on you..."

Khushi chuckles as she asks,adorably – " areeee...why?? Why were you not expecting it?? As If you don't know that I am cheering on for the Bangalore team this time in the IPL? So obviously ya, I am going to be dressed up as a true fan when I go to the stadium to watch a live IPL game no...."

I say keeping my eyes locked with hers – " its crazy..."

She asks puzzled – " huh??"

I grin, admitting honestly – " its crazy, how crazy I am bout you...Sparkle, you have no idea what I have been through in these last couple of hours especially, since Noon actually, the worry and everything..i obviously was nervous, because I cannot freaking let some online virtual nonsensical drama, mess up the most real connection, I have ever had in the 27 years of my Life...you understand what I mean don't you??"

Khushi nods in silence as her innocently expressive eyes tell me that she's caught onto the hint – I wanted her to catch onto.

I ask, now taking a deep breathe – " say something...will you please??"

Khushi takes a deep breathe and runs her hand through her open hair, adjusting it to one side nervously and she says – " ok...so...like I said, Arnav...I do not want to hide or lie or even twist or cover up things to you...I have always been very honest and upfront about to you about everything, like super straightforward always, and that's what I am going to be now as well..k??"

I nod.

I do feel a little nervous though in anticipation of what is she going to say next.

Khushi says, keeping her eyes locked with mine – " so...basically, when I was making my way into the dressing room, it was like I was thinking to myself in my head that I can't wait to switch on my phone and share my happiness with you, and was wondering to myself that your ad-shoot would have been over by now as well and everything...and then all of a sudden...I hear the girls talking about the activity online about Ayana and You, and I obviously was so very taken aback when I heard all that was strring up online...like it did come as an unexpected shock to me for real...which led to me feeling all blank all of sudden...but then when I switched on my phone and read your texts, it was like nonetheless of all that was happening online... I did know and trust in my heart, that this was just getting blown out of proportion for no reason...as in that it wasn't your fault or something...as in I did obviously feel like trusting in my heart, that there's obviously no truth in it..."

I feel relief gush through my heart as I say – " thank you Khushi, and please know that you are obviously right, there's freaking no truth in any of this at all...I spoke to her for like what not even four minutes that too, in the attendance of Rohan and Ravi and a couple of other team mates as well...even Samaira was there...and it was thoroughly professional.."

Khushi gives me a small smile as she says – " and please know that I believe you..Arnav...you don't have to explain further ok?? Its just that I have proeceesed all of this through, yes...but like it's still sinking in and I obviously am working on a way of not paying any heed to all the noise online, but its like I just probably need some more time to just accustomed to it all, maybe..as in its so...so...i..i..."

I fill in for her as I nod – " it's so new to you...all this online stuff/mess...I understand...what you mean when you say that you just need more time to let it all sink into that level off being accustomed to it..."

Khushi says relief sparkling in her eyes – " you understand don't you?? look Arnav, when we started to spend all this time together in getting to know each other, I obviously knew and understood that You are who you are – and I most definitely cannot separate Mr Stranger from Captain Arnav Singh Raizada, hence I had gotten in that TV strategy to just make it all sorted in my head, so that I could adapt to it...and now that it's been like two months over since I know you up so close, because of this mysterious comfortable magnetic equation In between of us....its like...I...."

And I grin as I admit with a wink – " well I so have to stop you for a second, because I obviously have to admit that I like the sound off what you just said...you know that mysterious comfortable magnetic equation in between of us bit..."

Khushi chuckles as she says – " really??"

I nod and I gesture her to continue with what she was saying.

Khushi continues – " so its like, now that I have known you so closely , I just want to say that please know, I am finding ways to now work on adpating to all of these possible unexpected things online, I do want to figure out a way to adapt to it so that it doesn't come as a shock to me the next time something like this happens...because no matter what, you are Captain Arnav Singh Raizada, currently leading the Men in Blue, a super celebrity in the cricketing fraternity not just national but international too...its obvious for all this media frenzy to surround you..so just give me some time maybe...for the same...k?because even though I have processed it all through, lot of parts of me are still kind off blank trying to figure things out in my head, so that I can handle it smoothly...but I will get there...with just some more time....you understand what I mean don't you?? I haven't hurt you or offended in anyway, I hope...Arnav...such was not my intention, please know that..."

I nod as I say immediately – " I understand what you mean ofcourse, Sparkle," and I ask taking a deep breathe because I want to know this for sure – " and I just want to ask that so basically you just need time to figure your head around this no?? apart from that we are good right?? as in nothing changes in between us right? you are not going to push me away – until that timing of figuring it out as in, you need time...you don't need like a distant space in between of us or something? as in you aren't going to stop talking/being connected with me right??"

Khushi keeps her eyes locked with mine as she says – " yes Arnav we are good otherwise, everything remains the same...as in, I just need time Arnav...I do not need like a distant space in between of us or something...and to be honest, i....i..." and she looks away from my eyes , and turns sideways.

I say immediately – " look at me dammit...Sparkle, don't you look away from my eyes right now...I dare you for the love of your 22 yards...i...i...what...I know you pause in that I..i...way when you are nervous about saying something to me.."

Khushi looks back at the me, finally and says with a sigh – " Arnav...to be honest, even though I had discussed with you that I needed some time out for the nap and everything, its like it felt like a part of me couldn't take it as well you know – I discovered that even though there was a part of that wanted that time out to sleep over it all, there was another part within my head that didn't like that decision of not being connected to you for those hours – as in, in short – a part of me couldn't take it..."

I admit with a grin up my face – " I loved the sound off that, I couldn't freaking take it too Khushi...it was killing me, I don't want a Communication Space in between of us now...or like ever...."

Khushi nod – " and please know I am sure that I do not want like a distant communication space in between of us too Arnav..and especially not because of what happened earlier today...as in I would rather just talk to you about it all, side by side and then wade my way through it....because I do not want to be like oh lets pick and choose as well, because that wouldn't be like fair, we can't pick and choose and be like oh we will only be supportive and understanding towards a situation surrounding someone as long as that makes us comfortable, because then that would mean that we are looking at an equation very selfishly right?? not keeping in mind any accommodations about what the other concerned person must be going through as well...so it's like I do want to figure this out for the sake of our Channel 3 connection...I do want to make the effort to wade my way through this uncomfortable media stuff...and I'd like to help myself by not just figuring this out alone, I want to openly keep talking to you about it, because with you by my side I just feel like, it's going to make the process a tad bit easier for me, so that I get to the point that it doesn't bother me, eventually...but yes, it isn't something that can happen overnight na Arnav....that's why I mentioned that I just need some time...and there might be times when I might just feel like, Arnav I just need to sort some stuff out in my head before we talk about it, but I don't want you to ever think or misunderstand the situation to be like, I am cutting you out, or pushing you away...for that would just be me rebooting my head,and my systems and shift my energies towards finding a solution for the same...I want to get this across to you very clearly Arnav, that I do not want to push you away ever, I can't..i just can't...k?"

I nod as I keep my eyes locked with her – in an intense silence.

Why? In an intense Silence?

Because in this very second as she just said those words out loud to me – I feel myself fall in love with her, all over freaking again.

I say now taking a deep breathe – " you drive me freaking nuts with emotion dammit...iv said it before and I will say it again – its crazy how crazy I am about you, Sparkle..."

I see a blush come up her face now as she says softly – " I think I would like to say...copy that to that perhaps???"

My heart Stops. – in Happiness ofcourse.

Did she just imply what I think she did?

I ask grinning – " did you just freaking imply what I think you did?? Say it dammit....and you think?? Or are you sure over what you just implied??"

Khushi grins and the next thing she burrie's half her face in her one hand as she says – " don't you look at me like that right now...can you give me some time, before I answer that Arnav?? I am just figuring stuff out in my head ya...like there is a outswinger bowling over within my head going on and there's a lot of work in progress..i shall present a report to you when I have figured some more things out...k?"

I grin as I nod – " ok...no worries...I like the news that there is a lot of work in progress in your head anyway...Khushi...like I am happy with that for now...."

Khushi's still got half her hand covering up half her face adorably as she says – " you must think I am like supercrazy no?? like have you labelled me as some SuperCrazy Charlie Chaplin or maybe #comedycircus now??"

Is there a way that I can magically get into the Screen, and just be by her side and Kiss her Insane – just now?

I chuckle as I admit – " well no to that Khushi, all I'd like to say is that Its me who is supercrazy perhaps in the moment for all I want to do is get into the screen magically and be next to you this very moment..."

Khushi rolls her eyes at me playfully and sticks her tongue out at me as she says – " haha..as if...you wish, who will play the match then huh? Skipper ASR? If you accompany me to the stadium as a fan??"

I chuckle to that as I admit – " well yeah...you are right about that...on that note, what an amazing game that was my little hit girl...like freaking amazing, you nailed it dammit...like 75 runs not out...you still gotta get around to teaching me your effortless pull shot trick that makes it look so easy..."

Khushi chuckles as she admits – " haha....Mr.Kind Yorker...look who is talking, just look who is talking....and oh my god, on that note Arnav...I just have to tell you this, the second last ball of the over was when I timed a killer outswinger for a cover drive...omg...like when I saw it hit the ropes for a four...I was like yo – yo yipping in my head that I pulled it through...."

I chuckle as I ask – " really?? Yo – yo yipping??"

Khushi nods and she says – " yes...really, acha listen you don't go on taking my case on right now k? for I have to tell you something that happened after the match..like it was an intriguing encounter, with one of India's offical national Polo player and his sister and her best friend..."

I ask intrigued – " really?? One of India's official Polo player? What's the name?? Polo's always intrigued me as a sport as well Sparkle...I don't know the complete details of it though but I do know it thrives quite popularly within it's gaming community..."

Khushi nods – " I know right...like a team sport being played monted on horsebacks in obviously intriguing Arnav...and yup...he said his name was Hridhaan and his sister's was Shivani...actually what happened no...the last shot I fired was a pull shot for a six no, and I had my eyes on the ball as it went into the stands so I saw it hit Shivani's forhead, so how could I not go up to check in on her, now that I had seen it hit her forhead myself, as in you know how these ball injuries can be na...and she seemed like so young too like in mid teens...so I obviously was concerned that what if she was hurt or something...."

I nod as I say – " I know what you mean Khushi, sometimes ball injuries can be bad...and I am so proud of you for this...you are an amazing sportsperson, your compassion shines through..my Sparkle.."

Khushi rolls her eyes as she says – " acha listen no..."

I grin as I say – " details...I want an detailed account....cmon tell me then what happened..."

Khushi chuckles as she says – " yes yes, I am telling you with details only as always, listen na...so...then I walk upto them after the game is over and..."and Khushi fills me in on everything that happened and the conversation she had with Hridhaan, Shivani and her friend as well and everything they spoke as well.

Ok – Guys.

I am definetly going to look up on, Hridhaan, India's Polo player – online once I hang up with Khushi. Just because my Insides are Curious.

Minutes later as she finishes telling me about it all, I ask curious – " ok, so they are coming to see the match as well?? Then?? Did he ask you what stand you are going to be in or something??"

Khushi shrugs as she says – " not really Arnav, as in, I just walked back to join everyone...anyway it was just an interesting coincidence no...not that I am going to see him again..ya...I mean look at how huge the stands of Sawai Man Singh Stadium are no,and so many sections off it... aree you are so busy playing on the pitch that you don't recall perhaps??"

I chuckle to that happily – "yup...you are right, the stands are huge and so many sections to it..indeed.."

Khushi – "and we are going to be in the ground ones straight up near the ground on the west end because that's where we get to witness more action from no, also that's where I can actually see you up closer as well, so I am very excited..all the best to you for the game ya Arnav...like way to go Bangalore...I shall be cheering you all on, for sure...like do I even need to say it? Isn't it so obvious from my get up??"

I chuckle to that as well as I admit – " godammit you, freaking drive me nuts"

Khushi dunks up my team's cap up her head as well as she says her eyes twinkling with Happiness – " see, now I have the Cap on as well..and know what? Jess and me have flags handy too..."

I grin and right then a thought returns to my head and I say taking a deep breath – " Khuhsi, and I think Ayana is going to be there in the stands as well...and there might just be more rounds of gossip...and..."

Khushi nods as she says with a sigh – " I know...she's made it so obvious on her Insta ya...I am going to work on ignoring all the gossip that stirs up around me on the same...I mean I do want to keep my focus on watching you play live..."

I smile – " thank you khushi, you have no idea how relieved I feel hearing that..."

Khushi chuckles – " ohh, just relax please, and have a wonderful game...ok?? like a thumbs up to you and I am like praying that I catch on to witnessing some killer drives off your bat today...like in real time...in front of my eyes and not TV..."

I chuckle as I say happily to my wrist – " ok...so some extra cover drives for my dearest Sparkle..."

Khushi chuckles as she says – " oh yes...to some extra Cover drives...indeed..."

I say now – " meet me tonight? Please? After the match? I want to see you..tonight...can't wait...don't want to push it to later..."

Khushi asks nervously – " but how ya Arnav...like..."and she says – " ok lets do one thing...lets talk about this after the match? K?? as in I will see if there's a way out too...."

I grin as I admit – " kool...lets talk about this after the match, for sure..then..k?".And my phone tingles with a text from Ravi that he will be waiting outsode the elevator on my floor, in about five minutes.

I say – " Khushi...so that was Ravi......"

Khushi nods and she says – " its nearly 605 pm now na...you gotta rush now I know...I will also just catch up on quick snacks and tea with everyone in the canteen and then we all are also heading to the stadium only...Akash, Payal and Noor reaching there direct only no??"

I nod as I admit – " yes,they will be.."

Khushi – " ok...please do tell Akash to keep up the secret cover bit even if he does spot me around k? as in because my full domestic team will be around me no...?but chances are less for him to spot me anyway since I will be in the stands near the ground and he'll probably be with everyone in the stands for family's etc..so yeah...but oh wait...if you tell him this then he will ask you how do you know I am there...and I obviously am aware that he doesn't know about our channel 3 equation yet...sooo..ok scratch out the former bit...don't say anything to him, just in case I run into him, I will only gesture him to act all secretive, or better wait..ill just text Anjali to pass on the message to him...."

I grin being smitten by her adorable rant – " yes My Sparkle, that would be ok...don't worry at all about the secrecy bit ok?.."

Khushi nods – " acha you hang up now na...ill talk to you later...bbye for real...speak soon Arnav..all the best for the game, like all the best * inifinity se..." and she waves bye to me – happily.

I chuckle in happiness as I wave a bye to her – " ok bbye for real Khushi...thank you for the wishes...speak soon...I am so glad we had this talk Sparkle.."

Khushi nods – " I know...I am so glad too..."and we both nod at one another again as our eyes lock briefly and then she says – " ok I am only hanging up, or else you will get late...tata.."and she hangs up, making me chuckle and my heart all happy.

Yup.

Guys.

I was right.

List me as a Goner – in Love.

Indeed.

I pick up on my stuff now, and wheel out my cricketing kit alongside me, as I make my way outside my room.

I do have my head dipped in my phone just now as well, as I am walking down the corridor because I am just Googling – Hridhaan's name and Polo player in one sentence as well.

And His Image – does come Up, instantly along with the rest of the Polo team that had represented India in the Polo – World Cup Finals.

Ok , everyone.He does have an impressive personality.

Hmm.

Hridhaan Singh Rajput is his full name.

I am still walking up the corridor and I am about to cross the Business center area on my floor, and right then I hear a young girl's chirpy happy voice fall into my ears – " bhai , cmon admit it...Jersey no 22 has been on your mind ever since this afternoon, the only reason why you spent watching the highlights of India womens, England tour with me this afternoon...cmon for once just say it, that someone's caught your interest...like what does it take for Hridhaan Singh Rajput to admit that he hasn't been able to stop thinking about a girl he just incidentally met and is kind off already hoping that he runs into her in the stands at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium tonight..."

I halt in my tracks.

I freeze actually.

What a Freaking coincidence is this?

How are they like right here?

Also.

What did I just hear?

My head's obviously connected the Dots. Jersey No 22 – that's My Sparkle, they are talking about.

I hear a man's deep voice fall in my ears now – " Shivi, this is exactly where I remind you that you are just 15 remember?? And I am 11 years older to you, dear sister, so you obviously cannot go around pulling my leg this way..."

I hear the younger girls voice come through in my ears – " ya ya, I know...bhai, but that the age difference doesn't change the fact that we have this amazing sibling bond nonetheless no?and what can I say, maybe my generation is just a lot smarter when It comes to all of this stuff and please, so don't you lie to me.."

I hear Hridhaan's voice come through – " well I do not want to lie to you Shivi, lets just say, yes I was interested to see Khushi's game, that's why I saw the highlights with you, and yes I am hoping to run into her in the stands tonight but that does not necessarily mean what you are trying to imply here..."

Shivi – " oh please bhai, it means exactly what I am trying to imply here..."

Ok – everyone.

This is exactly where I feel my Insides being consumed with some Uncomfortable Knots. Apparently – My Sparkle has caught Mr.Polo players attention.

I am right on that thought as I feel a hand on my shoulder and I turn sideways to see Ravi standing behind me as he asks – " why are you halted in your tracks Arnav? All ok??and tell me did you have a talk a with her??"

I nod as I say with a smile up my lips as I remember the talk Khushi and me just had – " yes, all ok...sorted...cmon yeah..i was just distracted by something...lets go..."

And as we are making our way past, I instantly hear the younger girls excited voice from behind us – " omg...Captain ASR, Ravi...is that you guys??? Please wait....hold hold hold...I am a big fan...."

Ravi looks at me and we nod at each other and turn to look at this young girl(who I know is Shivi instantly), because I have obviously spotted a image of her surprised brother in the background as he walks up to us alongside her. (The brother's whose image I had just looked up on Google – just a couple of minutes ago).

Shivani first holds her hands out to us excited as she says beaming happily – " ok...today is definetly my lucky day, like some sort off a lucky cricketing day....hello ASR, Ravi..i am Shivani, a big cricket enthusiast and I dream to play cricket professionally for India too.."

I shake my hands with her and smile at her as I say – " nice to you Shivani...and well I am sure we might just see you dawn the blue jersey for India one day as well..."

Shivani shakes hands with Ravi too and Ravi asks – " hello Shivani...you bat or bowl??"

Shivani says happily – " both actually..."

Hridhaan steps up now as she shakes hands with me first and says – " ASR, I am a big fan...so glad to run into you...and my little Shivi is a all rounder, bats and bowls brilliantly..."

I nod at him courteously even though my insides are consumed with knots recalling everything I had just heard and I say – " very nice to meet you Hridhaan..."

I watch him shake hands with Ravi now.

Hridhaan says to us both now – " wish you both all the best for the game, and well we are heading to the stadium too, and now that I have met you too, its only courteous of me to ask, if you are having a comfortable stay at our hotel?"

Ravi nods and smiles and asks the question on my mind – " very much comfortable as always, so you work here I guess, since you said our..??"

Shivi says happily and proudly – " actually I think daddy would prefer that sometimes if bhai here joint him in looking after the family business more...but no...he doesn't work here like professionally, my brother plays for India too..he plays Polo...because that's where his heart is...just like I have figured out that my heart might just be in cricket.."

Ravi chuckles as he gets into a little chatter with Shivani, encouraging her even more.

Ok so.Interesting– the family's into Hospitality business, but he plays POLO professionally probably because that's where his Heart his.(As Shivi said. Well good for Him.No problem in following your Heart, buddy. Nope...None at all.As long as your Heart doesn't decide to have its eye's on - My Sparkle.)

I shake hands with Hridhaan again as I say – "Polo is an interesting game, its always intrigued me, as well...I surely will catch up on it on screen soon..."

Hridhaan smiles – " thank you so much for that ASR, and well I love cricket too, play it for leisure sometimes as well..."

Right then my phone buzzes and its Coach sir text and I say to them, pressing the elevator button now – " ok guys, we gotta rush now, the teams assembled in the lobby...very nice to meet you both..."

Hridhaan and Shivani nod happily as they shake hand with us again, and right then the elevator opens up and we get into it and Ravi and me both smile at each toehr on reflex as we see little Shivani jumping up and down in happiness and hugging onto her brother happily as she says – " bhai...I just cant believe this....like I met ASR and Ravi...like Omg...omg....wait till Naina hears this...oh I forgot to take a photo...oh no..."

Hridhaan – " its ok Shivi, not everything should be about getting a picture.be happy with the moment..perhaps??"and he looks at us both and says – " all the best for the game once more guys.."

Ravi and me in unison – " thank you so much.." and we smile at them both politely once more as the elevator doors shut.

And I feel a Puzzled thought consume my Head. A puzzled thought in my gut instinct telling me – that Mr.Polo was like a Good guy. A good guy – whose probably gotten a little bitten by the Smitten bug, in that encounter with My Sparkle. Perhaps?

Just like how I got Bitten by it, the very first time I met her.

God – please let him never Meet – My Sparkle again.

Why do I wish for the same? Not just because there's this Envy rotating around my head at the thought. But because – it will be unfortunate for anyone else to get caught up in this connection in between of Khushi and Me.(It would just Hurt them).Because even though its not official in between of us yet , its like in my heart, I know she feels something for me , just like she knows I feel something for her.

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

Hours Later

Sawai Man Singh Stadium @10 : 00 PM

Khushi's POV

I jump up from my bench in the stands in Sheer Happiness and Glee as I hold onto Jess's hand excited and she grins at me happily with a wink and the two of us , along with the rest of the girls in our domestic team, who were mostly supporting out Bangalore, in this game start to wave our flags happily in a rhythm as we chant out Bangalore team's name loudly – much to the dismay of the Rajasthan team supporters around us as they continue to scowl at all of us and keep giving us angry looks and stares which literally say – Dude girls don't you see the Stadium is like a sea of Blue mostly, supporting Rajasthan since you are in Jaipur, and you girls have been irking us all going beserk in your support out to Bangalore.

Haha.

But do we care??

No ofcourse.

We are going Beserk in our hooting and Cheering nonetheless, even though we are like in Minority in the support for Bangalore, in our box in the stands.

Haha.

Oh and why did we jump up and start jumping in Sheer Glee just now??

Because – Ahemm..a one some star player, Captain of the Bangalore team..aka...Skipper Blue..aka...Arnav Singh Raizada,has been freaking Killing in on the Pitch, tonight. And he just freaking smashed a killer Cover Drive through the boundaries cover to reach his Half Century at the completion of the 15th Over. He is currently in the middle of a mid pitch celebration with his batting partner just now DB Rillers(who is an South African batsmen, that we are all also mostly a fan off,and Arnav has great bonding with both on pitch and off pitch)

And I just see the shot of him blown up on screen as he takes his Helmet off for a second and smiles at the Camera, and then literally turns a little sideways to eye towards the west side of the stadium(which is where our stand is), and he grins casually for a second and then turns his attention back to talked to DB.

I feel My Heart leap up in Joy as it says.Dearest K, did you see what I did.That gesture was surely for You. He knows the stand you are seated in.Also he played the cover drive to clinch that half century.He definetly made it look like a casual gesture, but we both know that, there was absolutely nothing casual about it.Look at me – being all Humpty Dumpty'ing in Happiness.

I grin to myself as I say to my Heart. Well obviously dearest Heart, I know what that gesture meant. And well, to be honest, I am just glad that you are back to Humpty dumty-ing in Happiness, as in I obviously did not like the Blankness you, along with the rest of my Insides were consumed in earlier today.

I hear my Heart say. Well yes, K – we were obviously taken aback by the sudden turn of events.But the nap helped, and well so did the talk with Arnav after. I mean it helped us retstart our way out of the blankness, I mean do you recall how he said, looking at the eyes so intently , Its crazy how crazy I am about you? Omg...K.....now you know what I mean that theres insane activity happening in this vibe in between of his heart and me on that invisible pitch in between us hearts...for sure.

My eyes. Oh yes I agree dear Heart.Its like I felt like a restarted engine then.Anyway K, I have been having the time of my life just watching him play so happily on the field just now. Like that is obviously the Cherry on the Cake.Its a good thing that we collectively decided to not pay much heed to the Online Drama.Tsk tsk..what a waste of time and energy – putting us all in a collective state of shock and blankness. I mean, just let us keep our focus on how we feel when he looks into us..tada...tada...lets hummm to a song...maybe??

I chuckle at my Crazy Insides right then and I pause on my inner though rant as I hear Jess say excited now, leaning into whisper in my ears – " okkk...so just five more overs to go Khushi, bangalore needs 40 runs in 30 balls....its obviously acheaivable...I reckon Bangalore is winning tonight..."

Ok guys – just a cricketing context. I mean only fair, since we are watching a Game live and in the Stadium. So basically – Rajasthan had won the toss, and elected to bat first.( like dude, whats with all these Rajasthan teams winning on all the tosses today? I mean they one our toss in the morning too na??) Anyways, so – Rajasthan played their innings first, and the pitch today is like totally a batter's pitch for they made an amazing score of 180 – 5 in 20 Overs. And well amidst the mid innings, it was like we were obviously a little worried, because like 180 plus in the Chase is like obviously daunting, but then the calm and composed looks on the Bangalore team's faces was what helped us all feel all relaxed, as we realised that they are obviously going to get in all determined – nonetheless.

And well obviously the star opener for the team the WI batsmen Hayle opened the innings alongside Sherma for Bangalore, and Hayle fired up a quick 35 balls runs joisiting up four sixes into the stands as well, before he got cleaned bowled out to a killer Yorker by the rajasthan pacer and Sherma(opening batsmen, alongside Hayle had also made 13 runs by then until the point Hayle got out) and Bangalore was 48 -1 in 4.5 overs overs and that was when Arnav came in(Since he bats at no 3), and took a killer double run in between the wickets to for that last ball of the over , to start of his innings and Bangalore was 50 runs –1 in 5 overs. However, as the bowling end changed for the next over, Sherma ended up mistiming an inswinger delivery and got caught out at long off. And at the point Blore was 50-2 in 5.1 overs and right then DB came in to the crease to join Arnav– and well ever since then its like as if Firecrackling Shots have been coming off their Bats, for Real – as they have stunned the Rajasthan fans to a silence.And right now at the end of fifteen overs – Bangalore is – 140 – 2 out, and Arnav just made his half century and DB is on 40 too.And as you just heard Jess – only 40 runs to go with thirty balls to be bowled.And oh yes everyone, Skipper Blue has also smacked 5 amazing drives in this game and one – as in three cover drives and two straight drives – which are like perfect beauties to even witness, and he's also smashed a Six as well so basically half his runs have come out of boundaries, as well.

Like Yipeeeeeeeeeeee!!!

I am so Happyyyyy for Him!!!

(And guys, I cannot even begin to express the sweet emotion, that had taken over me, the minute I had seen Skipper Blue, live on the field – and it really did make me think in retrospect that I think I did the right thing in giving him that subtle hint on our call – that I am right to think and feel like, it's crazy how crazy I am about him too. Like that call with him really helped me feel so much more sorted on my head, and has helped me ignore and not pay much heed to the gossip stirring up around me – for Ayana is obviously in the stands, and there's a lot of buzz in our stand as well about the same stuff from the morning, and even the media and the camera men keep blowing up her happy , exhilarated face as she's dressed in Bangalore jersey as well and is supporting on Bangalore, along with her friends. She's in the VIP box. I have also caught on glimpses of Akash, Payal, and Noor and some more rest of the player's relatives, from the Family box which is next to the VIP Box)

Anyways.

Okkk, everyone, the 16th Over is beginning – back to the Game.

We see DB take a comfortable single now and Arnav comes on crease.Right then Nandini, and Parul and Hina who are all on the bench behind me on the bench start discussing out some fielding technicalities and adjustment of the field etc, with Jess and me and we continue to observe seeing Arnav and DB take on that tricky bowler in comfortable defensive singles and doubles to keep their wicket intact as they cruise through comfortably with the run rate.

Its right then – one man who was in an alternate seat next to Jess asks her – " hey...iv been listening on all you girls discussing out all this technical stuff ever since the match began...if you don't mind me asking, where did you guys read up on so much information online?? I am a cricket enthusiast as well.."

We all smile at one another and Jess smiles and says to the man – " well to be honest, we know because we are professional cricketers as well..."

The man and a couple of more of his friends now give us all strange looks as they ask in unison – " wait what?? you girls play cricket?? Professionally??"and they all crack up in condescending laugh now as they say – " since when did gully cricket become professional??"

I say immediately politely but assertively – " excuse me, now that's just you all being rude..."

Jess rolls her as she says to them – " why did you even ask if you aren't open to listening to the answer..."

Hina chips in – " and just so you know we play for the Delhi team, and just defeated Rajasthan women in our t20 domestic tournament this morning to enter the Semi-s..."

The man who had asked Jess the question in the first plays rolls his eyes at her as he says tauntingly – " first thing out who cares, about Domestic cricket? And that too Women's domestic cricket??like even if you girls play cricket in the domestic circuit, lets just say that you are wasting your team..do you ever think you are going to play to a full stadium audience like this one day? its just a fact that no ones interested in women's cricket...so I suggest you girls change your profession..."

Ok.

That was way out of line and super rude.

I say to him folding my arms across my chest – " oh really?? But tell me something...did any of us ask you for your suggestion at all in the first place?? I don't think so...so I suggest that you and your friends keep your patriarchal condescending views to your self, for we are definitely not interested in hearing them..."

One of them snorts and gloats and says to me – " just like we are not interested in women's cricket...like really can you..like you..."and he looks at me up and down probably examining my petite frame – " can you even hold a bat??"

Jess gets completely fired up now as she says – " excuse me, how dare you??"

Hina and Parul say in unison – " and just so you know these two also play for India women, in the national squad...so they surely know how to definitely bat a lot better than you..."

Nandini says tautly – " want to see a demonstration?? Perhaps?girls, next time we come to the stadium, lets carry our bats with us, so that we can use to smash these MCP's ego's..."

Right then Arnav smashes another cover drive on the second last ball of the over and we all get distracted by the same – and we resume our celebrations amongst us all and Hina says to us all – " girls...theres freaking no point in even talking to these MCP's lets irritate the hell out of them by just cheering out louder...we love our game, don't we??"

We nod at her in Unison and continue with our celebrations. I look out in far vision towards Arnav's frame, and I close my eyes and I remember our – moment from months ago when we heard – Go the Distance, together, and I feel a lot better instantly and I smile to myself and open my eyes, and keep them on him -playing on the field.

Right then I hear Aastha say from behind us in whisper – " but guys, what these men said is true no maybe...will we ever play to a jamm packed stadium like this??"

And we all turn to her and say in unsion, Jess and mine voice coming out the loudest – " we will....we definetly will..."

She smiles now and says happily – " exactly what I wanted to hear...cmon guys, group selfie..."

And we all get into a group picture pose.

Right then the over finishes and we see Rajasthan, calling out for a strategic time out. Which means – there's going to be a 2 mins 30 seconds break.

We all sit back relaxed on our bench now and Aastha says excited – " oh my god everyone...look up...as if...I mean look up at the screen...as if the gossip and drama with Ayana mehra being in the stands wasn't enough for ASR today...look who has just entered the VIP box?? Its Pia....wait, how is she even here?? Why is she here? Like so sudden...let me check her insta..."

Wait.

What?

Did she just say Pia?

Like Pia Chopra?

Arnav's EX.?

Jess immediately gives me a worried look and we both look at the screen together, and my eyes fall on Pia's gorgeous Frame being blown up on the Screen as she is mingling with everyone in the VIP box.She's also not alone, she is along with one of her friends, who used oftn be spotted with Arnav and her, in the past. Well – th camera's focus is now on Akash for a bit and because I have met Akash before, I can catch onto his gestures of walking a little aside with Payal and Noor.He obviously wants to just ignore – Pia's entry into the VIP stands, next to the family stand.

I look out the field and see Arnav is busy in conversation with DB and some more support team members – as the Drinks break in on, for them. He is oblivious to this around him.He has his back to the Blowed up Screen as well and as much as I know him – he is completely consumed in the Game Zone.

Like thank God – I wouldn't want him to get Disturbed by this, atleast mid game.

And I can't help but Wonder – looking up at the sight of Pia still being shown on the Screen.

Jess whispers in my ears – " what the hell?? What is she doing here today??and she's now talking to Ayana Mehra and her friends too....like whats up with that??"

I nod at Jess and shrug uncomfortably – feeling that similar Blankness take over my Insides as well.

Why is she Here?

Why now?

Why today?

Dear Charlie Chaplin life, what do you want from me – today? Just when I am absorbing one Googly in – you throw another one my way.And that too – a full fledged One, roaring right in my face from the pages of Arnav's - Past. The past that I had thought was Gone.

Apparently Not.( From Pia's side maybe – that's why she is here, again today?)

Everyone's around me in the team and rest of the box has been talking and hushing about her now.

Right then Aastha leans into us all and whispers flashing her phone in front of us – " oh my god..guys look at ther insta story...I was so consumed in the match, I didn't see this...look she's been posting old cozy pictures of ASR and her from the time they were dating since the last thirty minutes and stating captions like – enroute to Sawai Mansingh stadium to cheer on my favourite man of all time, then another pic with an caption..with the hope to catch up with an old friend, and she's added hearts to it... oh please...why did she even say friend...we all know they were dating...and look on the next post rolling up in the story.. she's captioned..another picture of them saying – Major Missing, please hope that the traffic allows me to make it to the stadium in time – and oooh wait a fresh post just came into her story in which she's posted a snippet of an old video of them laughing and cuddling, close into one another with a caption – Some Happy Old Times..with hearts again..."

Guys.

I don't know how I feel about this.

Its like I am seeing everything on screen...everything that Aastha just said, is literally flowing through her phone's screen just now and I am back to being Zoned out into another Blankness – as my eyes see the reel of old moments of Arnav with Pia.

Jess nudges me and whispers into my ears – " don't look at it, khushi...and some of these pics are like so old....and you'v seen them too na..."

I look at her as I nod and admit, a lump forming up my throat – " yes...I have...seen a couple of these old pictures...back then..but I didn't know him then, and not just that Jess...I didn't...feel..",and I pause as I gesture her to just understand what I was trying to say.

She nods and right then Aastha says – " guys omg...this last video snippet of 20 seconds that she just posted, like if you zoom into it properly, its totally a snippet of a private moment of them...as in..like within a hotel room or something...I think theyv just woken up and are eating breakfast..after spending a night together maybe..because her tank top does look like a one she'd wear as a night suit maybe...and well her face does look a lot barer of make up than what it is usually...dude...she most definitely wants to patch up with him maybe...that's why she's posting all this personal stuff..."

Guys.

I don't want to see this Video again. But I find my eyes fall on it on its own accord nonetheless, and my hands act on their own accord as well as I take Aastha's phone in my hand and go through that video byte bit in Pia's Insta story again.

Yup.

I think Aastha is right.This does look like a snippet of a moment of them – from the morning after spending a night together. Because I instantly recognise Arnav's round neck tee in the story, it's one of his favourites as a nightwear, as I have often seen him wearing it for night on video calls.

And just like that – an Imaginary Vision of them getting all physically intimate, flashes through my Head.

Dammit.

It messes me Up – almost Instantly as it feasts with its claws into my insecurity of not having any physical experience whatsoever. Of not knowing how to even Kiss.

Guys.

I did tell Arnav earlier this evening – that I would talk to him about everything side by side as well as I am wading through and figuring out a way to sort out all this stuff around him..the media frenzy...link ups...and well now it's like haunting flashes of the past etc etc...but my insecurity – these visions from his past are triggering and feasting upon is something – which is very personal to my being as in I have never voiced it out to anyone, that I do feel all edgy at the thought that I might not know how to kiss even.Like Practically.

How do I even voice this out to him? As in – he will surely think that's me being so immature and stupid – perhaps? Yes – ofcourse. He is 27 and has been in a full fledged with a lot of physical involvement kind off relationship before surely – how will my thought and insecurity of not knowing how to kiss, come across to him?

Surely Very Stupid and Immature – Ya.

My eyes fall on the scrolling video snippet again as Parul, Nandini are scrolling through it excitedly as well, next to me– shipping on Pia and Arnav getting back together, saying in unison– " well they do look crackling hot together...like one can surely only imagine the chemistry that used to be in between the two...by this little moment..."

I feel something Crack inside off Me as my insides have gone into a Stunned Silence – again. I somehow maintain a polite composed smile on my face as I see Nandini hand back Aastha's phone back to her now and I say to her – " yes Aastha...everyone I think you are all right...does look like a snippet off a private moment of a morning after... like one can surely only imagine the chemistry that used to be in between the two...by this little moment..."

Jess looks at me worriedly as she whispers in my ears – " ok...so your face is all blank again...khushi..you ok??"

I just shrug at her as I admit – " there's still sometime to the strategic time out no..like about a minute still...ill just go up into the stairway of the stadium to catch on some fresh air..."

Jess says worried – " I will come with you..."

Right then Aastha says flashing her phone to Jess and Me and the rest, again – " ohkk Pia is continuing to post Snippets of that same very morning now...on her Insta post...like video bytes...a fresh ten second one just came up in which she is plonked on ASR's lap happily and is kissing his cheek and the caption is all cryptic...in a Hope of a Second Shot...I mean guys, why is she dishing out so much personal stuff on social media, now anyway?? And why has she even held onto it in the first place like even though its been months since the break up right.."

Nandini says now whispering – " clearly she still loves him maybe..like you know sometimes how its like there's so much history...that some shreds of emotion always remain no..."

Parul – " ok just look at Ayana's uncomfortable face being blown up on screen now as she is pretending to talk to Pia as if her presence hasn't affected her...clearly she is uncomfortable though...how crazy is this for ASR I mean, he is all engrossed in the game right now but once its over – he will find himself look to and fro in between his past and present in like one frame – as in both Ayana and Pia standing together..."

I gulp down the Lump in my Throat.

I say to Jess in a whisper, gesturing towards the empty water bottle in my hand – " Jess...no...you be here..everyone will wonder where we both went...just tell them I went to refill my water bottle by the filter...ill be back soon Jess...just five minutes...I just can't be here in between of everyone right now...as in even our team its like half the girls are talking about Ayana and Arnav and the present rumoured link up and half are talking about Arnav and Pia...the flashes of their past...I literally can't be here right now.."

Jess nods as she clutches on my arm supportively – " I understand...call me if you need me ok??"

I nod at her and stand up and make my way out and up the stand stairs to just be by my-blank-self for a couple of minutes.

No Wait.

Correction.

Even though all of my Insides are consumed by that Eerie Blankness again as flashes of Pia and Arnav what I saw on her story online make their way to my Head again, accompanied by an imaginary image of them getting all physically intimate as well – I feel the blankness inside of me getting accompanied by something else.

Something what?

Cracks.

Some of Insecurity.(Because of my naiveness/lack off stuff on the physical tangents)

Some of Envy.

Some of Intense Possessiveness too that are just aching to say to Arnav – that I didn't like the sight of Ayana next to him in the media pictures, that went viral this morning. That I absolutely hated seeing this flashes of the Past of Pia and Him.That I hate this Intense imaginary physical moments my Heads conjuring up of Pia and Him, too.

I feel a Jab/Crack within my Heart – like I have never felt before, as my eyes are clouded with tears as I am looking down and racing my way out of the Stands, just now. And through this Jab/Crack, I hear My Heart say in a slow vulnerable , tearful voice – Ouch.It hurts K.Now I know what exactly Humpty Dumpty would have felt for Real when he had that long great fall , that they talk about in the Nursery Rhymes....

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

TADAAAAA!!!!!

How was the Surprise Update??And pleaseee ya guys...No Shoes at me , for stopping right there...(wink wink)

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

Next Update : As this was like the Fourth Update this week...next one on...Monday /Tuesday Night.Also to save myself from some Shoes.Sneak Peek. Next Chapter's Title is – SpeedBreakers or SpeedRacer's? ( wink wink...wait for it, Guys) Any theories of about what can be coming up next Update?? Haha!!

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

They cleared up on media coverage rumors. As long as they are clear with each other, that what counts.

Skipper not happy that there is another dude interested in his sparkle.

Wonderful update yaar... hope from this khushi to realize her love for arnav... can't wait for the next update...

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee

Haha. So I have been on a Writing Spree all afternoon and evening to dish out this next update of 12K words to you all today....so happy that I could put it up before Midnight..hehe...like there's still ten minutes to Midnight...(wink wink)

Will be Eager to know what you all think.

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

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

Also...Omg...how many of you watching the IPL??? Like Cricket ..Live after Ages...haha...like just seeing Dhoni behind the stumps the other day was like Yippe for me...and well in tonights game...RCB Won by 10 runs too!! Likeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee Yayyieee to that.!!!

Ok I shall now stop with My Crazy about watching Cricket after ages live...Rant and let you all dive in without – further Delay

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

CHAPTER 20 – SPEEDBREAKERs Or SPEEDRACERs?

Sawai Man Singh Stadium – Jaipur

Shivani looks up at her brother as she nudges him in his side – " Bhai, please be like my darling brother and help me get some water, no? I am so thirsty and it's like the strategic time is almost ending and last four overs now in the game, so I am definitely not leaving my seat..."

Hridhaan chuckles as he says looking out on the field – " well yes, everyone is getting back into position, which means that the game is about to begin, anyway, Shivi, I just don't understand why you want to watch the game from the stand so close to the ground anyway, when I always do have the tickets for the VIP box as well, and just in case we were there just now, I wouldn't have to go so far out to get you your water and miss out on a over in the process..."

Shivani grins as she says – " that's because the VIP box is no fun ok bhai, we get to see the most action from these stands closer to the ground, and it is surely a better experience.."and she sighs – " such a bummer that Naina couldn't make it to watch the game with us tonight, I mean.. Otherwise the plan was that she and me would watch it here from this stand ,and you could watch it with some of Daddy's work associates and your Polo club friends from the VIP box, however because she couldn't make it, you decided to accompany me here..."

Hridhaan ruffles his sisters hair lovingly – " yeah as if, you know I wasn't going to leave you alone, and actually I think you are right, now that I have seen the game from here, I think it's a better experience as well, next time, only the closest stand to the grounds – tickets for us all..."

Shivani says with a wink – "it's a bummer, we didn't bump into Khushi yet no...its your fault, you should have asked her what stand she was going to be in, in the first place..."

Hridhaan rolls his eyes at his sister as he says standing up – " ok, this is exactly where I go on to get you that water, you want anything else too??"

Shivani shakes her head in a Negative as she says – "I am just excited to see the end of the game, have a feeling Blore will be winning this one...what ya bhai...I can't believe I am seeing, Rajasthan loosing out on two matches in a day though, like one this morning and now this one..."

Hridhaan grins as he says – " well you never know until the last ball Shivi, but since we had that nice little encounter with ASR and Ravi today, I'd say, I wouldn't mind if Bangalore, wins this one, they are anyway way ahead of Rajasthan on the points table as well, we haven't been having a good season at all...happens sometimes, that's how it is in games/sports, at the end of the day...someone wins, someone loses, but it's truly that very experience that builds one on as a sporting sportsperson.."

Shivani nods happily as she says – " yes bhai, I do agree with you on that.."

Hridhaan – " ok, ill see you in a couple of minutes, be ready to fill me up on with your commentary..or maybe, ill just tune into Cricbuzz"

Shivi nods happily and Hridhaan makes his way out towards that little common space which was the centre for snack vendors, water coolers, washrooms etc for all the stands closer to the ground. Two minutes later, as he is approaching a snack vendor, he narrows his eyes as he thinks that he has spotted a similar frame of the one someone who had been on his mind, right there, filling up on her water bottle by the water cooler which was closer to the same snack vendor's shop, he was walking upto. He smiles to himself, hoping that it really was her, that he had spotted, and it just wasn't a figment of his smitten imagination. As he reaches the vendor, and gets a clear vision of who it is by the water cooler, he is beyond just glad that Shivani asked him to get out here right now, because it was what was going to make him bump incidentally into Khushi again.

For it was Her.

It really was Her.

He crosses the vendor stand and makes his way to the water station, and its right then his smile does vanish on its own accord, as he realises that Khushi was surely really upset in the moment, as she stood lost deep in thought, as the water continued to overflow from her already filled bottle and her one hand was constantly wiping on tears from the side of both her eyes – one by one.

She was Clearly fighting her Tears.

Why?

Hridhaan takes a couple of steps backwards and asks the snack vendor for some tissues and then makes his way towards the water cooler, stands right in front of Khushi offering the tissue to her and says with an supportive smile – " and as much as we were hoping to run into you tonight, I most definitely was not expecting to not see you smiling Khushi, clearly you are upset about something since I can figure out that you are fighting tears and are all lost deep in thought.."

Khushi looks up instantly at Hridhaan and she uses the one hand to wipe out the tear that was threatening to leave her right eye and she closes the tap on the water cooler now, realising that it was overflowing her bottle and gives Hridhaan a polite smile as she says – " hello Hridhaan..."and she sips on a couple of sips of her water to steady her thoughts, and mask up her turmoil.

Hridhaan smiles at her supportively again as he leans against the cooler as well and says gesturing her to take the tissue from his hand – " c'mon...take it...I mean this is exactly where I should have had an handkerchief on me, you know like the old school type, so that I could give it to you to wipe that tear off, but looks like I will have to make a do with the modern day paper napkin/tissue for now..."

Khushi smiles a little on reflex at that and she does nod at him politely and takes the tissue from his hand as she says – " thank you so much..."and she uses it to wipe the two lone tears that had brimmed up the side of her eyelids again, and once she is done, she crunches it up in her hand and she asks Hridhaan politely – " also, if you don't mind me asking, what did you mean by that we were hoping to run into me tonight?? As in you mean Shivani was hoping that maybe??where is she??"

Hridhaan smiles as he nods, admitting half the truth – " well yes, what I mean to say is that my little sister is now a huge fan of yours, so she was obviously hoping to bump into you Khushi, infact she was just expressing her disappointment to me over the same that she hadn't seen you around, a couple of minutes ago, she was thirsty, so just came by to get her something to drink, you know since she won't leave her seat in the last overs..we are in the E stand, right near the ground.."

Khushi smiles politely as she says – " oh E stand...we are all in the C stand, like our full domestic team.."

Hridhaan nods as he asks – "you ok though?? you do seem a little disturbed...and definitely lost out in some deep thought"

Khushi nods as she says, covering up – " yeah, I am ok..nothing much..was just deep in thought about some complicated stuff, that I am trying to wade my way through.."

Hridhaan nods and asks, with a warm smile – " and Is this complicated stuff professional or personal? I hope you don't mind me asking?"

Khushi smiles politely as she says – " no ya, I don't mind you asking, and well let's just say, it isn't professional.."

Hridhaan nods with another supportive smile – " ok so means, personal then, had a fight with someone important?? Or are you feeling mad at someone, who you don't want to feel mad at perhaps? hence the conflicted turmoil?"

Khushi nods and she says honestly, sipping on her water – " well to be honest, it's not like I have had a fight or somethings nor is it that I am mad at this someone very important person, its more like just some situations in context around, you know how it's like sometimes you seem to have like no control on certain circumstances around you, and it's like when you look at it in retrospective, its neither your fault or the other person as well, as in you do understand that it's the circumstance at play here, but nonetheless, one can just feel all bummed out because of the same as in...some situations are just like killer googly's and outswingers no.."

Hridhaan nods with a smile – " hmm...yes I understand what you mean, it's natural to feel overwhelmed by circumstantial happenings around you at times, after all we are only human..and I reckon googly and outswingers have the power to make you feel a little unsettled on the crease, which is why you used their inference in the context.."

Khushi smiles politely, taking a deep breath – " yup you caught on that right...you know the last two matches, I got out batting, was once to a googly and once to a outswinger..so yeah just seemed apt to use them in context..."

Hridhaan smiles, amused by the inference – " so, have you figured out a way to defend to this googly/outswinger circumstance in the personal context....or is that what you were thinking about, lost in that deep thought, expression up your face when I walked up to you?"

Khushi nods – " yup, that was what I was thinking about actually, because as overwhelming as the situation can be at times, I do not like to run away from it like completely as in, I just need to pause a little and give myself some time to soak things through and then eventually get around to facing it nonetheless...so yup, let's just say I am trying to figure out a way of padding up my protective gear before entering on the field to bat..."

Hridhaan smiles as he says – " and giving yourself that time is absolutely okay as well, Khushi.."

Khushi nods, and shoots him a polite smile – " yes I know...it's okay and like super duper important as well..."

Hridhaan smiles – " and I hope whatever it is, gets sorted out soon for you..."

Khushi smiles – " yeah..i hope so too..thanks ya..."

Hridhaan nods – " and you are most welcome"and he gestures Khushi to walk alongside him to the vendor now and she nods and does and Hridhaan asks, as they reach the vendor – " will you have some juice or anything else as well??"

Khushi shakes her head in a negative, her eyes falling automatically on the screen of the little tablet on the vendor's counter, on which he was watching the live match as well – " no thanks Hridhaan, I am good..."

Hridhaan nods and gets Shivi, the bottle of water, and once he is done he says smiling looking at the Tablet screen too, hoping that the discussion about the live match would make Khushi smile a little more, for she was obviously cheering on Bangalore for the win, dressed in the team's jersey and Cap too – " well, I do think Bangalore is going to win this one, for ASR and DB just collectively smashed 12 runs in this over...ASR is surely having a good game, he is on 60 now and DB just reached 50 as well..and now they need 20 runs in 18 balls obviously do-able, say what Khushi, do you think the game will be Bangalore's before the complete overs are bowled, I say maybe Bangalore will clinch this one before the last over is even bowled..."

Khushi looks at Hridhaan and she smiles as she nods observing on the game's momentum – " well to be honest, I think the same too, both of them are playing with such great momentum.."and she pauses as she says with a small smile – "there you go...DB fires another six..."

Hridhaan nods, with a grin – " and look at the way the two of them are grinning at each other mid pitch, they know they are going to take this home, I mean its' obviously a known fact that ASR has this amazing equation with DB both on and off pitch as well, oh btw you know we ran into ASR and Ravi this evening, before the game...Shivi and me...at the hotel.."

That obviously catches Khushi's interest as she asks – " really?? You ran into Skipper ASR??"

Hridhaan nods as he says – " yes, it was nice little encounter, right before they were getting ready to leave for the game, got Shivi all excited..." and he quickly filled in Khushi with the brief highlights of it and he finishes with genuinely – " both of them were, very humble, grounded and friendly, for sure which is great..because Shivi and me are both big fans of their games, specially ASR.....are you fan of his game too? On that note, this morning when you played the cover drive on the ground, me and Shivi were discussing how your shot was as controlled one as the one ASR plays..."

Khushi nods as she asks with a little smile, as her eyes fall on Arnav's playing profile on screen – " well yes, I am obviously a big fan of his game, have observed on his cricketing shots for years, and well I do practice them out in the nets too..also...yes I know what you mean by him being all humble and grounded for I have heard a lot about Skipper ASR being all of that, and a complete gentleman too..."and right then as her eyes fall on the tablets screen again, she spots Arnav fire an Uppercut Six past mid on and she says with a smile – " well yes, looks like the game will get over before all the balls are bowled...Skipper ASR is in the mood to fire some shots..."

Hridhaan nods – " well yes, I think so too... that was an amazing Uppercut.."

Khushi says now – " and oops to us, because I just realised that iv kept you longer here, Hridhaan, Shivi must be wondering where her water is..."

Hridhaan nods sheepishly – " well yes to that..."and he asks – " hey , come with me to our stand for a bit until the game finishes atleast? I mean why don't you meet Shivi? She will be absolutely thrilled??"

Khushi thinks to herself, that it would be a better idea to not go back to her stand right now as well too, for all the girls might just still be discussing out Arnav's past and present, and she nods with a polite smile at Hridhaan and starts to make her way with him to their stand and just as they walking, Khushi spots Jess, who literally sighs of relif as she says walking up to Khushi – " I was just coming to check up on you...Khushi...you ok??"

Khushi nods and immediately introduces Hridhaan and Jess. Once the general intro's were done Hridhaan says to jess as well – " why don't you join us in our stand as well Jess, Shivi would love to meet you as well..."

Khushi requests Jess to join them as well as she silently conveys to her with a gesture to agree, and Jess nods and they all make their way into the E Stand.

Minutes later, as they reach Shivani, they see Hridhaan plonk himself back on the seat next to Shivani, giving her the water and she asks looking up – " there you are bhai, what took you so long??" and right then she spots Khushi and Jess behind Hridhaan , and she stops on the sip of water she was gulping down excitedly as she says to her brother – " omg bhai...you ran into Khushi??Khushi, come here please....sit next to me na...bhai...please move aside.."

Khushi smiles politely – " hello Shivani.."

Hridhaan spares his seat for Khushi, standing up and grins as he watches Khushi introduce Jess to Shivi as well.

Minutes later, as they are all watching on the match, Shivi says to everyone excited – " and even though there are aredent Rajasthan fans all around us, I have no qualms in saying this that I think, ASR is going to now finish the game with a killer drive of his bat...for only 4 runs needed to win...it was an amazing game...but lets see which one he fires, a straight or a cover..."

Khushi nods to Shivi , keeping her eyes on the field on Arnav, another small smile curving up her lips on its own accord, and she was also completely oblivious to the fact that Hridhaan was just silently smiling to himself, at the sight of her smiling from behind her and she says – " well, I do think so too Shivi, and I think it might just be a cover...."

Jess grins as she says – " well yes me too, and I was expecting a lot of Rajasthan fans to start leaving though by now, but everyone's staying, because hey...its nonetheless a good game of cricket right...there it goes.."

And they all watch – ASR fire up a killer Cover Drive straight to the Covers – to finish and win the game for Bangalore alongside DB in 19 overs, Indeed.

Khushi, Jess , Shivi and Hridhaan , all do High- Five each other Happily as they see the Bangalore players rushing to the ground, now to celebrate the Win – alongside Arnav and DB on pitch as they were now congratulating the Rajasthan team for the wonderful game of cricket - as well.

Hridhhan gets a phonecall on his phone, from one of his friends in the VIP box, now that the match was over and he does take it, as he sees Khushi, Jess and Shivi talking.

Shivani nods as she says excited now – " and well Jess, there is surely another reason why everyone in the stand is still staying, even though Rajasthan lost, for everyone thinks they are going to catch on some gossip byte as in the entertainment reporters are surely going to corner Pia and ASR after the match presentation and everything....for they are obviously like in this same space after forever...I think half of India is still shipping them to get back together, I surely am too...I mean why would they even break up...they do make an amazing couple... ..."and she looks up at Khushi and Jess and asks – " any of you follow her on Insta? I do..and she surely is here with a hope for patch up, I mean why else would she be posting on such personal stuff now..."

Jess shoots Khushi a worried look but she says to Shivani – " well yes, I know what you mean, I have seen her Insta feed..."

Khushi feels her Insides freeze, as she hears that bit from Shivani, and all of a sudden, she feels like she does not want to be in the stadium to witness the media cornering ASR and Pia for a talk. She didn't how that sight would make her feel, and she did feel like giving her Insides a little break from witnessing anymore stuff. Her Insides were still all Blank anyway. She says to Jess – " Jess, I think the rest of the team would also want to stay for the post-match presentation and everything, but I don't want to...can we leave??please? Let's get a cab...please text Hina or Parul that we are leaving, or wait ill drop a text in our Whtsapp group..."

Shivani looks at Khushi as she asks – " hey...all ok? you really want to leave now??"

Khushi nods at her politely and side hugs her,and say's covering up – " yes Shivani, it was amazing to see you again, but I am kind off getting a headache right now, so it's better if I leave..."

Right then Hridhaan's done with the phonecall and Shivani says getting up from her seat as well – " bhai, Khushi is not feeling well , and they want to leave...why don't we drop them on our way?? I mean I can surely catch on the post presentation highlights on Cricbuzz or Hotstar live and all the fun stuff about ASR and Pia will anyway go viral online..so no worries..."

Khushi gulps down her turmoil as she says to Shivani and Hridhaan – " hey no...we will be ok...infact I am just booking us an Uber..."

Hridhaan intervenes now as he says – " No way Khushi, let us drop you both please??and since you aren't well, I'll also surely stop on our way at a pharmacy and we will get you some paracetamol ok??"

Right then Khushi looks out on the field again as the celebrations amongst the Bangalore team continue , and in far vision she does spot Ravi , pulling aside Arnav for a talk, and she wonders if Ravi was now about to fill Arnav about Pia. She was right on that thought when Jess whispers into her ear – " Khushi...Pia's making her way to the grounds sidelines as well..it's on the screen...you wana stay or leave??"

Khushi looks at Jess as now as she says with a sigh, looking at the screen for a second and spotting Pia walking excitedly towards the ground – " no..I don't want to stay...let's go..." and she turns to look at Hridhaan and Shivani as she says – " thank you so much for the drop guys..really..."

Hridhaan smiles as he gestures them all to start walking up the stairs and out and says to Khushi – " no worries at all Khushi, please don't thank us...".

Well the pleasure's all mine - he adds silently, smilingly to himself as they all head out.

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

Meanwhile – Simultaneously on the Ground

ARNAV's POV

I shake hands with another one of Rajasthan team members, politely as I congratulate them on a wonderful game. Once we are done greeting them all, DB and me, walk up to each other and punch our gloves together in a fist- knock.

DB grins as he pats my helmet and my arm and we hug happily now.And I grin patting his arm as well – " loved it, absolutely love to play in partnership with you DB, that's 65 runs not out for you.."

DB grins as he pats my arm – " an amazing game of cricket indeed, 75 runs not out for you as well buddy... a comfortable win for us , with 6 balls still left to be bowled, I am a happy man today..and I am sure, so are you..."

I nod happily – "well yes so am I ... this win also helps us on with the run rate as well..and not just the 2 more points on the table..and at the back of my head, I think this win gets to the second spot on the table just now..."

Ravi grins as he laces his arm around my shoulder , from the side, now ,and says to both DB and me – "yes it does...indeed..what a excellent knock that was off the two of your bats...we all had an outstanding time in the stands...indeed...what a game.."and he turns to me and says – "Akash is grinning like an idiot, well so are Payal and Noor.."

I chuckle happily as I ask – " are they now?"

Ravi nods, excitedly.

DB nods as he says – " and I just have to say this, that last cover drive from my friend here, was an absolute treat for my eye as well..actually so was your entire innings".I smile happily at him as I say – " likewise my friend...likewise..."

I chuckle happily as I tuck my bat under my arm and take off my Helmet as I turn around to look towards the West Stand off the Stand, closest to the ground.

Why? Because that's where I know, my Sparkle, is seated ofcourse. I obviously cannot spot her with my eye but I just had to look there for a second, nonetheless. Also, please note everyone I can literally imagine her smiling to herself sheepishly, as I clinched both my half century and the winning runs today with the Cover Drive. I promised her that I'd fire some extra covers just for her, today. Can't wait to freaking switch on my Phone and talk to My Sparkle, and now focus on planning out a way to meet her. Just got to admit to her how I feel – tonight.

I pause on my thoughts as I spot the rest of our team, rushing to the ground for a celebration as well, and we all get consumed in the same – happily now in a group.

Minutes later, as I am happily smiling and listening onto what a couple of boys are saying excitedly, I feel Ravi pat on my shoulder and he gestures me to get onto the side, and my smile falters a little on its own accord as I see some worry lines up his forehead. I walk with him a little aside and I ask, taking a deep breathe – " what's up? Why are you frowning??"

Ravi gives a smile to one of our team- mates , whose walked by and I nod at him too as we see centre off the ground being prepped up with the post-match presentation arrangements. Ravi says leaning in to whisper in my ears – "honestly, worried for you buddy.."

I look at him puzzled as I ask – " huh??"

Ravi whispers – " looks like today is just one of those days when one thing comes up straight after the other, well I know you are used to it and can handle it obviously but it's your secretive someone I am worried about...chances are that she's obviously seen and spotted this stuff online or on TV the minute it started to happen, amidst game...you were obviously too consumed in the match, and didn't probably notice it at all..even though they kept blowing it up on screen as well... "

I ask concerned – "what do you mean??is the media spurring out more stuff about Ayana?? And you know when I am on the field in the middle of the game, that's where all of me, is completely tuned in, so I obviously didn't catch onto whatever you are hinting Ravi.."

Ravi takes a deep breath as he says shrugging – " well no, not Ayana....it's Pia, she's here in the stadium...she arrived around before the start of strategic time out...and well you can obviously imagine the frenzy in the media as that happened...they'v gone berserk once again....Akash was furious about the same though,the minute she appeared into the VIP stands,and Payal and Noor are busy calming him down so that he is just able to ignore her presence, but they'v all collectively given her a cold shoulder, surely..."

I feel my Insides Freeze.

Did he just say – Pia?

Holy Crap!!!

Nooo!!!!

Dammit.

I feel my Insides twist with Worry – immediately as my thoughts go to Khushi on reflex.I ask to reconfirm – " Pia...is here??in the stadium??and the media's gone into the frenzy about the same??"

Ravi sighs – " oh yes...I think they had her happy excited, face blown up on the screen quite a bit in the last couple of overs....also...she..."he pauses.

I ask immediately, worried because of the even more worried expression on Ravi's face just now and I gesture him to talk and he says, taking a deep breathe – " also she look seriously I think she's lost it...god only knows what she is upto, or what she wants, or why is she here..but she's posted out a lot of stuff on her social media whilst she was on the way here, and ever since she has been in the stands...some old pics of the two of you...and some snippets of videos which I am sure were supposed to be private, and titled them as going to cheer on my favourite man of all time, some happy old times, in a hope for a second shot, etc etc....."

Wait.What?????????????????????????

I feel shock and anger consume me immediately as I ask – "she what??????????? what did she post?? What videos?? Ravi fill me in the details,quick...they are about to start with the post-match presentation soon..."

Ravi nods as he quickly fills me up in on the details and just as I hear him detail it all out to me, I feel so much Worry consume and engulf all of me, all over again. Immense worry as my thoughts immediately shift to wondering what My Sparkle, must have felt witnessing all of this. She surely would have seen it all. Because if some of her team members were talking about Ayana this morning, they surely would have caught onto this as well.

Dammit.

What the Freaking Hell.

This would have Surley – overwhelmed her on another level. Specially if she's seen the Snippets of the Pics and Videos, Ravi is talking about. I know how? Because I just know her in and out and can see through her Unsaid. I know a part of her Nervousness about 'US' does stem from the fact that she has not been in a relationship before. And now, to see the snippets and flashes of my past moments with Pia – have surely thrown her off guard – once again.

I, so Freaking Hate this.

Dammit. Pia. What the freaking Hell??? Why would she even post all this stuff? Why does she still have it on her anyway?Why nowww?????

No. I am not going to let the present mess or the ghost's of my girlfriend's past – mess things up for Me.

I couldn't.

My Heart was on the Line.

I hear Ravi say to me now – " there she is, approaching the ground and lot of entertainment media is around her already, she's surely up for giving a byte alongside you after the match presentation..."and he looks at me as he says – " and I know that you are pissed the hell at her right now..."

I look up and I spot Pia amidst the huddle of reporters as well, enjoying the attention. Ayana is next to her as well.

The Word – Pissed would be an Understatement. I was angry like I haven't felt in a long time.

I say, keeping a check on the anger from reflecting on my body language just now, even though I know Ravi can read it and I admit – " pissed would be the freaking understatement,and know what Ravi, I am in no mood to give any byte alongside her, even if she is freaking right there...help me pass on that message to her through someone buddy.."

Ravi ask – " you serious??she is right at the ground.."

I nod – " yup, I am serious, we are going into the post-match presentation, which begins in a minute perhaps and that's what I am going to focus on, after which I shall walk off the ground, and will not stop to meet and greet her or any entertainment reporters on the way, for you know its priority that I get to my phone now , first thing...you understand why don't you??"

Ravi nods.

I say – "however, whatever said and done I do not want to embarrass a woman in public, nonetheless so please if there's a way to convey...the message to Pia, that there's no point in her waiting around the ground, for whatever it is that I have to talk to her, will be in private once I reach the hotel...that's all....and I think this should be enough hint to her for now, she might just will leave herself......help me with this Ravi, please?"

Ravi nods as he pats my arm – " sure thing, and I will take care of this myself...it's a good thing I still have her no anyway, and my phone is with my. C'mon, the presentation is starting...just relax your body language for now, and in some more minutes you will be with your phone..."

I nod at him and pat his shoulder, thanking him silently and make my way towards the Presentation area, covering up my worrisome – Insides, with a reflection of a poised and collected smile on my Life.

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

Fifteen Minutes Later

Arnav's POV Continues

I will have to thank Ravi once again, for this – everyone. And I surely will later. He took care off passing on my message to Pia and as I had expected, she had left the ground herself, even before the post-match presentation was over. And thank god for the fact that Ayana had joint her as well. And I had immediately sprinted my way towards the dressing area after the post-match presentation was over, and as I was making my way in – I had spotted Akash, gesture to me from the family box that he would catch me up at the hotel and I had given him a thumbs up as well and asked him to get going ahead with Payal and Noor.

I have just entered the Dressing Room which has got all the Happy Buzz of an after celebration going on amongst my team mates – but my heart is kind off not in it, for all my focus is to get to my locker asap and switch on my phone.

I am five seconds away from my locker.

I do smile at everyone though and share a couple of high fives and side-hugs with the team on the way to my locker and just as I open it – I get my hands on my phone, first thing as I switch it on and collect up my stuff and wind up at the speed of light and two minutes later - I gesture to Ravi across that I will be in that little private room which is further down the dressing area for us and to call me when the teams ready to leave on the bus.

He nods and I make my way to the Private room and sit on the bench with a worrisome sigh, as I quickly open my WhatsApp.

And I smile a little on reflex as I read on the string of texts from the top, that Khushi has left me throughout the duration of the game.There are about tweleve of them and as I read the second last one which reads, I feel my heart get consumed with so much emotion.

Khushi's second last text :Omg...Arnav...you are like on 42 just now...and I cant stop getting excited in anticipation over what shot you are going to play next , since this bowler is the one you'v been taking on all throughout the game....like you just have to know this, it's a very sweet emotion for me to just see you play live now...ok see..you'v surely read my string of short texts to you throughout the game before you read this text...I am able to write a little longer one right now because its just Jess next to me right now, as in Nandini is turned around to talk to Parul..so yeah...okk, so the bowler is about to bowl now so I shall return my attention from Virtual- Arnav to the Arnav on pitch, haha....okkkk...tata....gotta game and You to watch...priorities you seeeeeee...(wink emoticon)

My eyes go onto the last text, which seems to have come at the end of the game – and this reconfirms my feeling that Khushi had obviously been conflicted in emotions with the rest of the stuff happening around as Pia reached the stadium.

Dammit.

I read it – nonetheless.

Khushi's last text to me : Skipper Blue...congratulations to you on the wonderful win, for Bangalore. It was a treat for all fans, indeed. It's always so wonderful to see you and DB play in partnership...so happy for you... (thumbs up emoticon).

Yup.

This was the last text. No more message after this.Usually I always text her to check if its okay for me to call her, but right now I can't wait. I have to talk to her. To hear her Voice. I know she has my name stored as Mr Stranger, anyway.

I quickly call her.

She cuts the call.

I call her again.

She cuts the call again.

I call her again.

She cuts it again.

Dammit.

I groan as I text her.

Me : Khushi..I need to talk to you right now.Please pick up...

Phone beeps.

Her : Congratulations to you on the win once again SB...it was a wonderful match(smiley emoticon)..also..sorry Skipper Blue...can't talk right now...

I quickly type.

Me : Sparkle...where are you ? are you with everyone right now from the team?? As in are you still in the stadium??

Her : No SB, I am not in the stadium...I left after seeing you smash the killer cover drive as the winning shot..and yes I cannot talk right now because I am surrounded by everyone.But not everyone as in everyone from the team.Everyone as in Jess, Hridhaan and Shivani.

Wait.What??????? How is Mr.Polo – around my Sparkle just now??? Did they run into each other in the stands??An imaginary vision of him being all friendly with My Sparkle – crosses through my Head. I fight – an uncomfortable turmoil.

Me : Hridhaan and Shivani???????? You ran into them in the stands, I am guessing??

Her : yes Skipper Blue..I ran into Hridhaan in the stands during strategic time out, actually more like by the water cooler...and we got into a little talk, he also told me that he and Shivani met you before the game...he was telling me how excited Shivani was about it as well and how you and Ravi were so grounded and humble and everything...and I did agree with him on that ofcourse that I have heard so much of that about you...saw the rest of the match with Jess, Hridhaan, Shivani, then Jess and me wanted to leave and not stay until later as in the rest of the girls are still at the stadium only they wanted to see the post-match presentation and everything...so yeah...I was getting us an uber, but they offered to drop us to the hostel so yeah...we are currently on the way...there's a lot of traffic though, around the stadium...

I sigh as I fight my very own Conflicted Turmoil.

Mr.Polo was dropping Khushi to her Hostel, just now. Freaking hated the amount of discomfort that piece of information continued to make me feel.The green monster of Envy has returned to knock on the Door.

I have never given into Moments of Envy before – when it comes to the matters of the Heart. That's maybe, because I have never felt so much emotion deeply for anyone, apart from Khushi. I love her and things aren't yet official for us, which is obviously adding to not just my discomfort but hers too. I need to confess to her Tonight.

Me : why didn't you want to stay till the end of the post- match presentation Sparkle?? I know it was maybe because of Pia's presence in the stands.Khushi..i swear, I freaking had no idea, that she would even be there. You have no idea how embarrassed I am feeling just now at the thought off everything she posted up online. She shouldn't freaking Have. She had no right, absolutely none whatsoever specially when I haven't even spoken to her in months. You know that don't you?.I am going to tell her that. Just like I am going to tell her that I want nothing to do with her anymore. Also going to ask her to delete everything she posted up online. I had asked Ravi to pass on the message to her that I wasn't even okay to give a entertainment byte alongside her – the minute I got to know what was going on, after the game got over.

Her : you did??? Skipper Blue...is that why she left before you could even finish up with the post-match interview and presentation...I mean...I know obviously since Shivani's keeping tap on it on Hotstar Live, as in I could hear it.. your interview was very nice also, Shivani was really bummed about the fact that Pia left...as in she still ships you and her...together...half of india still does no...

Me : yes...that's why she left Sparkle...also, you know very well that I don't freaking care what half of India freaking thinks right?I know what I think and feel and what I want and that's what's important. I know you know it too. You know it all in your Heart as well. Talk to me about what you are feeling...dammit...I need to talk to you..see you tonight..now more than ever...

Her : I will talk to you...Skipper Blue..but please...can we talk about this later? As in I am with everyone...also...battery's running low..for real...just incase my phone does go off...it will be because of the battery k? please know that...also...I don't know if we can meet tonight..i am getting a little headache as well...I should just sleep over it..i guess?

Khushi wasn't feeling well? Great. Its surely all because of the turmoil she's been going through all day because of me. Hate the freaking Circumstances around me, more than ever.

Ravi peeps his head through and asks me to join in everyone on the team bus. I nod at him and I get up. But my attention is in my phone. Khushi's wellbeing is obviously priority.

Me : Sparkle I am sorry, I know your not feeling well, is may be triggered because off all the turmoil you have faced because of me today...please take a medicine as soon as you reach the hostel...you do have a paracetamol in your medicine kit right?

Her : Skipper Blue...please don't be sorry, please know I understand this is like not your fault. I am not going to get into a Blame Game.No point. It's a waste of Time and energy. I want you to know that – 'You' haven't caused me any turmoil.Its just the circumstance and the situations perhaps? It's not like I wasn't aware about your relationship. You'v always been honest to me, just like I have always been honest to you. It's just that - I just wasn't expecting to see snippets of the two of your personal past moments up online...and to be honest.. I just don't know what to say right now...I just need some time to figure out what to even voice to you...and yes I do have my medicine kit with me in the hostel, but Hridhaan's just stopped by a chemist to get me a tablet anyway...

I feel My insides Groan as I make my way to the Bus with everyone. I am glad that Khushi is getting the tablet for it will help with her headache, but I hate the fact that Mr.Polo is the one getting it for her.

It should have been me.

Me : well I am glad about that,he does seem like a nice guy.Your well being is obviously my priority Khushi.Please take the tablet the minute he hands it to you.

Her : yes I will...SB...thanks...also yes...I agree with you on that...as in both Shivani and Hridhaan are really nice...also you know what happened? Like another crazy coincidence. Shivani was just showing me and Jess her family pics, I just felt like I had seen her mom somewhere...and it hit me that I had seen someone like her in my mom's younger days like boarding schools pics albums..and then as we talked about it..we discovered that both are Moms were like in boarding school together, same batch..Mayo College Ajmer...and well the minute I texted mom if she knew Ranjana aunty,(Which is Hridhaan and Shivani's moms name), and shared her present pic,she got all excited and was all like yes ofcourse this is Ranju, one of my good friends from boarding school days, we used to swim together, do horse riding together at times too in school and do a lot of sporty stuff together all the time.....we just lost touch over time...khushi..get me her no now.....and well I obviously connected them...and Ranjana aunty and mom are currently talking on phone right now as long lost friends who have just connected...ok...SB...my battery's running out. Literally phone might just be off...I think I will keep it that way for the night...until I reboot and figure things out...let's talk tomorrow..tata..for now..i do hope you receive this msg before my phone dies out on me...

Wait.What?? What did I just read????

Mr.Polo's Mom and Khushi's Mom are long lost friends from Boarding school? And now they'v connected?? This could perpetually mean – that there was a possibility that Hridhaan, could start to be more actively present around Khushi???He'd probably take a lot of interest in that, being all happy with this development.Well I obviously know My Sparkle's caught his Interest.

I text khushi back with a : that's such a crazy coincidence Khushi...

But the text does not deliver and I realise that her battery must have died out completely. Why did her Battery had to die out right very now.Godammit.

Also, would Mr.Polo be driving the car extra slowly? So that he can get more time with Khushi??

I get on the Team Bus, alongside everyone...consumed by a deep sense of discomfort consuming my insides.

This is exactly where I want to say – Dammit * Freaking Infinity.

No – I couldn't let Khushi sleep over this, without meeting her in person tonight. I had to be the one to give her comfort and reassurance. Which meant – that I had to rake my Head left, right and centre and figure out a way to see Khushi, before she leaves for Delhi tomorrow morning.

And figure out a way I most definitely will. And before that, I was going to make sure that I had the talk with Pia to make her understand – that we are Long Over, so that when I meet Khushi, I can tell her all about that too.

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

Two Hour's Later – 2:00 AM

Khushi's POV

I feel my eyes flutter open, as I feel Jess shaking me in my sleep. I groan as I pull my covers over self, more snugly as I whisper in my sleep – " Jess..i am sleeping ya...why would you wake me up just now..."

I hear Jess's urgent voice fall in my ears as she continues to pull out my cover from over me and I fight for the blanket as I pull it back over myself – " yes Khushi, I know...you wanted to sleep over stuff and everything, which is exactly why you crashed to bed within minutes of us reaching the hostel as Hridhaan and Shivi dropped us around Midnight, and listen dude, its 2 am now, and you did get some sleep already ok?? and you haven't even changed into your night suit, still in your jersey and denims...you didn't even switch on your phone nor did you put in on charge..."

I groan as I say sleepily – " Jess, are you like nuts or what? are you really waking me up just now to tell me to change? Or to put my phone on charge, when you could have done that for me as well..."

Jess pulls on my cover completely now and I get up in bed and I glare at her as I ask , rubbing my eyes – " what ya?????? I need to sleep...Jess..."

Jess narrows her eyes at me as she says, biting back her smile – " are you sure you want to prefer sleeping just now??"

I ask puzzled – " Jess what do you mean?please ya, don't you go all cryptic on me just now, you know what a day its been turmoil wise for me ya...give me a break...and let me sleep..."

Jess shrugs as she says – " ok then, I will just ask your Mr stranger to leave then..."

Ok.

Wait.

What???????????????????????????

What did she just say?

I look at her Zapped and Dazed.

And what do I feel?

Grr.Grr.Grr.

Whats the Grr.Grr.Grr? Guys – it's the sound of the Engine of my Blank Insides restarting on its own accord, and my Insides don't seem to feel so blank anymore as I feel my eyes pop open on its own accord as they say to me.Hey K...we are not interested in any sleep, at all.Look Look, we are not in a low lazy mode anymore, we are way too excited. Ask Jess what she means? Did we hear her correct.Is Mr Stranger here???

I gulp down my anticipatory nervousness as I say to Jess – " Jess, if this is a joke, then please know that I am in no mood of it ya...and what do you mean I will ask Mr Stranger to leave? Have you forgotten who Mr Stranger is?? He is probably at the afterparty right now, surrounded by Ayana, and Pia and all the fun stuff...since I told him that we will only talk in the morning..."

Jess rolls her eyes at me mischievously as she says – " well I know very well who your Mr Stranger is, and no you are wrong, Mr Stranger is not in the afterparty at all, he is up on the terrace just now, he's literally sneaked up here about five minutes ago, from the outward spiral staircase which connects to the terrace from the backside of the hostel which they use for the utility staff for servicing etc...only so that he could come meet you...also know that, all that Pia had posted up online on Insta, stands deleted...she took it off...looks like he had a long chat with her and cleared things out before he could come see you..."

My Eyes Cheer in a Hurray as they indulge in a Happy Dance.Mr Stranger is here , for real.My Stomach and intestines and the rest of the organs join the Hip – Hip Hurray Party.My heart whispers jolting up from blankness too. My Stranger is here.

Ok dear Heart, did you just say My Stranger?

My heart whispers. Yup. I just did. Also, please note K, Sleep is not on Prioroty at all for us as well.I declare the Supreme Courtroom – open for this special Fast Track Urgent Case Hearing – this very Moment.I don't care if its freaking 2:00 am in the night..K?

I hear my Mind say. The High Courts of the Mind stand open, for operations too. Did you just hear everything that Jess said?? He is here!! He sneaked up her to meet you...for real K.Get Up...now this is exactly where you channelise Dutee Chand's running avatar and make a run to the terrace , like you make a run on the Tredmill.Hurry – freaking- Up.

My eyes smirk at me as they say.Hurry * Freaking Infinity would be the better word – perhaps?

I gulp down my nervousness as I run a hand through my hair and ask Jess who is now grinning at my dazedness – " Jess, you mean Skipper Blue is here? You mean like for real?? Right?? but how?? Who even gave him the idea?? I mean my phone was off and everything..."

Jess shrugs and grins – " well I did...you can thank me for that later, he somehow got a hold on my no..texted me, asked me to help him arrange seeing you tonight, since it was of utmost importance to him that he sees you before we leave tomorrow, like he wanted to see you tonight...and I helped him sneak up ofcourse...as in I stood by the back gate as he climbed and jumped over it and then walked with him to the terrace from that back staircase..."

I ask dazed – " he what????????????so you met him already??"

Jess nods grinning – " yup I did...how about I fill you in on that later khushi...cmon he is waiting up on the terrace for you...hurry..."

I get up from the bed instantly.And I ask nervous – " but wait?? What If someone comes to the terrace??"

Jess rolls her eyes at me – " everyone is asleep..i checked on..also latch the door from inside door..k??as in since that's the only one anyone from the inside will access too, and no one from the outside will come right now anyway na...also I will chill around by the inner stairway's foot landing and binge on Netflix and wait for you guys to finish talking...you know like on guard...just in case..."

I hug Jess instantly as I say – " thank you so much Jess..i owe you one.."

Jess winks – " well Skipper ASR said the same to me just now...now cmon...hurrrryyyy..."

I nod at her and I just brush my hands through my messy hair and we make our way up to the terrace, and I feel my heart beats race in anticipation.

Fast.

Like.

Super.Duper.Fast.

The High& Supreme Courtrooms of my Insides have never felt this excited ever before – indeed.

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

ARNAV'S POV

I walk on the terrace of Khushi's Hostel, impatiently.

Ok.

Correction.

I am pacing around here at the speed of Light.Ever since I came up here with Jess's help and have been waiting nervously for Khushi to come up. Need to thank Jess again for this one formally, like properly.

Also guys – this is exactly where I say – The Crazy Things You Do for Love – happily.

Why?

Because never have I ever – climbed up a Woman's Hostel gate, Jumped over it, and then sneaked up through a old metallic spiral stairway to set my foot upon the terrace off it – in freaking middle of the Night. Also, I am dressed in black tracks and black Hoodie, which is on my head.So potentially I am totally – like a Creepy Crawly Burglar whose sneaked into a Woman's Hostel at 2am in the night.All because, I just had to see Khushi tonight – even if it was for just a couple of minutes.

My heart wasn't going to be at ease, if I hadn't.

I am right on that thought, where I see the Inside of the terrace floor move a little and I lean against the wall adjacent behind the door (where there's a little cornered niche with a sitting ledge too) hiding, for a second, just in case it wasn't Khushi.

And I feel my Insides Jump all Happily as I realise that it is Khushi, indeed – as I see her walk onto the terrace all nervously, looking around, closing the door behind her as well and she nervously latches it up too and turns upfront and looks around nervously again.

She's so freaking Adorable in her nervousness, as she runs her hand through her messy open hair, that she's trying to straighten and brush her hand through.

This is exactly where I should jump up out in front off her and tell her that I love the look of her hair – all sprawled naturally messy around her face.Perhaps?

I hear her look around walking up front here and there and she whispers softly – " Arnav...you there?? where are you??"

Yup.

This is that exact moment, where I should make my presence felt.

I smile to myself as I sprint up to her from my Hiding spot, and I pull her by the hand from behind, taking her by a surprise as I turn her around, holding onto her arm and I wink at her mischeviously as I say – " hey you...Sparkle..." and the way I see her eyes light up instantly as she sees me and says in a Daze with a nervous anticipatory smile curved up her lips – " hey you...Mr.Stranger..." ends up driving me nuts as I act on my emotions, as I take her by the hand to the adjacent wall and we get behind into that cornered niche, and I pull her into a crushing hug instantly as I kiss on her head as I whisper softly, immediately – " I am sorry...so so sorry...for all the turmoil you'v been through because of me today Sparkle...I just had to see you tonight itself....my heart wouldn't be at ease otherwise...iv caused you turmoil, its me who wants to be here to talk to you about it, to make you feel all comfortable and reassured about everything...I care about you more than you will ever know Khushi..."

For a couple of seconds, I do feel her being frozen in my arms, but about a thirty seconds later, I feel her wrap her arms around me hard as she hugs me back and whispers – " like I said, it wasn't your fault Arnav...I understand that it wasn't...and Jess did mention to me that you cleared things out with Pia..as in she's deleted everything she put up online.."

I hug her tighter into me, engulfing her in my arms – " yes I did talk to her, and I made things extremely clear from my end and I will tell you all about it, with every detail...but later...right now , in this moment now that I am here with you..can we talk about just you and me right now?? Please?? I mean like I said I obviously want to talk about everything else too..but first...I need to focus on you and me... is that okay??"

Khushi nods as she says – " yes...that's okay Arnav...the little sleep I had did me some good...for sure..."

I kiss her forhead – " sorry to wake you up Khushi, but like I said I just couldn't let you leave without seeing me...I just had to see you tonight..."

Khushi whispers into my arms – " are you crazy?? Don't you say sorry for waking me up right now...I am so sorry that I shut out my phone and everything and you had to sneak up here this way...and I can't believe you came...like you came here...this way...and..I...I..."

I kiss her head again softly and I pull her back my her shoulders a little and I cup her face gently from one side and wrap my other hand around her waist as I pull her closer into me, as I admit looking into her overwhelmed expressive eyes – " I told you...its crazy how crazy I am about you...didn't i???"

Khushi eyes swim with a lot of emotion now as she says nodding her head and leaning her cheek into my hand comfortably as she holds onto my wrist on the hand that was snugly cupping her face and she smiles now and says – " well, just because I do have to say this for the fun off it....you do know Captain Arnav Singh Raizada, that you are totally coming across as a..."

And I chuckle as I fill in the sentence for her with a wink – " as a creepy crawly burglar, you once implied me to be...??"

Khushi nods and she says with a chuckle too – " yuppp...also makes me remember of the moment in time, in Nottingham when we met in the parking lot, sitting sandwiched in between two SUV's, coming across as naïve potential car thieves too..."

I smile as I admit, caressing her cheek, keeping my eyes locked intently with her expressive ones that were talking to me in the language of their own as well – "exactly....right? parking lots, terraces, tree branches... are definitely the places where I have never sneaked upto willingly to just get a glimpse of someone/ or to just talk to them even Khushi...have you ever wondered why, I am ready to just about do anything to just get a couple of moments with you in whichever way and how?? i know you know the answer in your heart...but ask me why, will you??"

Khushi asks nervously, keeping her eyes locked with mine – "why??? Arnav??"

I admit sincerely honestly – " because you freaking caught onto a very important string in both my head and heart, from the very first minute I met you...Khushi...I have fallen for you in the ways I haven't fallen for anyone ever before...and you are all I think about when I don't have cricket on my mind, you are the one whose thoughts I am lost in, all day and night....you have never been just a friend to me Khushi, never... "

Khushi asks nervously clutching onto my wrist – "wait??????????what????"

I nod and I say – " you remember when we had that discussion about relationships, and you told me about everything that you had on your mind then??"

Khushi nods silently.

But she is trembling in the circle of my arms.

Which is Good.

Very Good.

I admit sincerely looking into her eyes – " I knew then and there, that I didn't want to be No 1 on just your cricketing inspiration list Khushi...I wanted to be the Man of your Dreams too..."

Khushi's eyes widen now as she asks softly – " you wanted to be the man of my Dreams too??"

I nod as I smile – " actually sorry my bad, correction to that, I want to be the man of your Dreams...."

Khushi gulps down her nervousness so adorably that it makes me kiss her forhead instantly as she whispers softly – " you want to be the man of my Dreams??"

I nod as I kiss her hand now, and look into her eyes – " yup...I want to be with you Khushi....as US...with a very special addition into the Channel Guide, of a Channel 4 – that stays tuned directly with this signal in between our hearts....do you want to be with me too?? Will you give me this one chance to make US happen??please???"

Khushi looks into my eyes as she says nervously – " Arnav, before I answer that, I do want to tell you that...as in...you know right..as in that...I..I...I am so nervous...how do I say this to you...I...ummm..umm..."

I fill in the sentence for her kissing her hand again – " you mean... as in that, you are nervous because you have never been in a relationship before, yes Khushi, I know...just like I know Sparkle, that a part of your nervousness about a possibility of US, right now is also surely stemming from the very same fact too...and after all that has happened today...its surely thrown you off guard and made you very nervous on tangents because of the same.."

Khushi's eyes widen even more now as she asks – " you know??? as in you sensed this, like already??even before I voiced it out loud to you??"

I nod as I admit – " yes I did...ofcourse I did khushi...I know you don't i? I absolutely understand what this is about..."

Khushi sighs as she leans her cheek even more into my hand as she closes her eyes – " how?? Just how do you do this???how do you see right through me???"

I kiss her forhead again as I say sincerely – " you know I just do...right??talk to me please...just say whats on your mind...please??"

She keeps her eyes closed as she says sighing, conflict apparent on her face – " I like you Arnav, obviously, as in I have fallen for you in the ways I have never have fallen for anyone, ever before and I do want to give this insanely mysterious connection in between of us a chance too, I mean that's what I want in my heart...as well truly...but I am surely nervous..because not being in a relationship ever before means that I have absolutely...like...no...like literally no experience at the other stuff that is important to men when they chose the one they want to be with in relationships... Arnav...I have never even freaking kissed before, like I have never been kissed...and I am so nervous that I wouldn't even know how to..."she pauses and scrunches her eyes close even more as she says – " sorry I just had to keep my eyes closed as I said this out loud, I was too embarrassed to admit this to you, while looking into your eyes.."

I say caressing both her cheeks tenderly – " don't open your eyes to me if you aren't comfortable right now Khushi , but tell me something, do you really think that I care about anything else but this intense magnetic mysterious connection that ties our hearts to one another.."

Khushi whispers softly, still keeping her eyes closed – " I obviously know that this connection in between us is important to you Arnav just like you know it is important to me too, I know it means something to you...just like you know it means something to me too...but I am just...nervous and insecure about this..gosh you must think I am so immature and stupid.."

Guys.

I am dying to tell that I love her.But maybe, I have to wait to reveal her the intensity of my emotions. First, I need her to feel comfortable in our new equation – which is going to develop in minutes from now.

I keep my fingers on her lips as I say now – " shh...shh...I understand..."and I kiss her forhead as I admit sincerely – " no...I don't think any of that, you want to know what I am thinking right now????"

Her eyes are closed but there's so much of display of emotion on her face – that it surely is driving me nuts!

She nods.

Goner Alert!!

I know we have so much to talk, but I need to kiss her.I swear, I can't wait anymore.

I continue to caress her cheeks, and I brush my one thumb over her lower lip tenderly caressing it too – " I am thinking, how about you just hand over all your nervousness and insecurities about the same up to me, because I am dying to help you ease them all out...Sparkle, for real......like for example, even though I have so much to talk to you, to fill you in over the stuff that happened around me ever since we last texted...and your phone was off and you were sleeping after...all I can think about right now is the fact how I can't wait to freaking kiss you, because I have been dying to for ages now...so if you say you okay and want to kiss me too, then I'd like to change the fact this very second, that you have never been kissed before, because I'v been dying to kiss you like I have never kissed anyone before Khushi, because you see, I have never kissed anyone with so much backing off true and deep emotions from my heart..."

Her eyes flash open now suddenly as she looks into my eyes and asks puzzled – " huh?? Wait what????What do you mean you'v dying to kiss me for ages now??"

I chuckle because the expression on her face is so freaking adorable just now and I say – " okkk...yes...I literally mean that for real Sparkle, I have been dying to kiss you for what seems like ages to my being indeed, but is it okay if I tell you about that bit of it, after I actually kiss you?? I am afraid, I can't wait to feel your lips under -mine anymore...so please tell me if you want to kiss me too, because your consent for the same is obviously important to me... "

Khushi trembles as she says adorably, nervously – " Arnav...but...I won't know how to kiss you back...like I am really afraid...like...what if I disappoint you or something??"

I feel my insides grin as I lean sideways close into her and kiss her right cheek, as I whisper – " which means that you are okay with it though??"

She clutches on my arm as she whispers – " Arnav...I...I..."

I kiss her left cheek as well, which makes her clutch on my arm tighter as I ask – " yes..or no??"

She asks softly clutching on both my arms with her hands nervously – " if I say yes, are you like going to kiss me, like this very minute...Arnav??"

How adorable can My Sparkle Get???

I pull back as I cup her face tenderly and look into her eyes – " nah...not this very minute...this very second...did you forget the bit where I mentioned, I have been dying to for ages now...so why would I waste another second Khushi????"

Khushi's eyes fall to my lips nervously, adorably as she says – " but what if i..."and I keep my finger on her lips as I say intently – " shhh...just follow what your heart asks you to do Sparkle..follow what you feel...that's all that matters.."

Khushi asks adorably – " will it be okay if I try to mirror your moves as you kiss me perhaps?? As in I can pick up on it, as in remember how I picked up on that wrist technique with the cover drive, when you demonstrated it to me in real time, like in front of me..."

I chuckle on reflex.

How can I not be this Crazy about this Honest, Straightforward,Innocent, Adorable, Mesmersing, Captivating, Alluring woman in front of me??

How can I not fall madly in love her with her – with every passing second?

Khushi asks nervously – " so will that be okay??if I follow your moves?? Means that will help me figure out how go about it right?? "

I look into her eyes as I cup her face with both my hands and I admit sincerely, caressing her cheeks,since I know she is waiting for my reply to her – " yes...that would be perfectly okay...Sparkle...so say can I kiss you??now?? like this very second??"

Khushi gives me a nervous smile as she keeps her eyes locked with mine – " yes...you...c.."but I don't wait for her to finish her sentence as I, finally lose all my patience and quickly wrap my one hand around her waist, pulling her closer possessively and close my lips over hers – immediately, and I kiss her softly and gently for the first couple of seconds fusing my lips over hers, over and over again.

About twenty seconds later, I feel her clutch on my arm gently with one hand and her other hand goes around my neck as she pulls me closer as well and begins to kiss me back softly, mirroring the move of my lips over hers, like she said she would.

So the plan was to kiss all gently and Softly at first.But Nope – that's not going to work.

Not at all.

Because just as I feel her lips moves under mine and gasp a whimper which is almost like a soft moan into my lips as she tries to continue matching my moves – I lose it, and I probe my way into her lips, for a deep kiss as I begin to devour her Lips with mine, over and over again like I have wanted to for a long long time, and I kiss her all deep and urgent, madly and badly and very possessively too - as one of my hands fist in her open messy hair, to pull her even closer into me and I love the feel of her one arm wrapping around my neck even more snugly now and the other that was clutching onto my arm now trails up my arm and cups my cheek too, as she's starting to now mirror the moves of my urgent and deep ways of kissing her too.

And Time's gone into a Standstill – Perhaps??

Do I care?

Nah.

All I care about the fact is that I am finally kissing My Sparkle, the one I love deeply– like I said I would.

Exactly...Like.. I have Never Kissed anyone ever before...

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

TADAAAAA!!!!!

How was the Update Guysssss?? (wink winkkkkk.....)

Let me know what you guys think as always, you all know I love reading your feedback and comments. Will be eager to know what you all think??

And yes.

Next Update : on Wednesday Night guys Mostly .

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

Khushi is all upset with Pia's presence. Arnav is upset with Mr Polo's presence.

The first kiss. Arnav has made it clear that she is the one.