ARSHI FF : HIT WICKET MY HEART 2.0 - EPILOGUE1.0.Pg 44(8/7/2021)*Compl - Page 23

Arnav is so upset with her decision. He doesn't want her to be without family.

What solution will Arnav come up with? what will be that middle ground? He will find a way.

He already got her to pretty much agree to his solution even if she doesn't know it yet.

Very emotional again fantastic update

Helloooo everyoneeeee..

So Here I am with the Third Update of the week.Just Finsihed writing it Out.And Its about medium length 6K words – with Only Stranger and Sparkle in there discussing out the Middle Ground.

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

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CHAPTER 41.2 – THE 'MIDDLE' GROUND

@The Hospital

ARNAV'S POV

Guys.

To say that I was kind off – Relieved*Infinity at the moment would surely be an Understatement of the Freaking 19th+20th+21st Century for Sure.

I mean obviously – I cannot ever express it in words – the Tsunami off Relief that consumed my being, the minute I heard My Sparkle say that she was going to Shun the Crazy Thought of Being here in Sydney all by herself for all these months.

FINALLY.

I WAS ABLE TO CHECK MATE THE HELL OUT OF THAT ACHING THOUGHT.

Well – I just knew it very well in my Heart that I had no other option but to pull out all the Emotional Guns at her first to get her to see things from my point of view too. I just had to barge in on her emotionally – first. Because I only wanted to talk to her about the Solution+ Middle Ground my Head+ Heart had come up with combined, after Her Dear Heart+ Mind had been convinced off the fact that, there surely was another way out of here.

Also to be honest guys – as you all already know that I do greatly respect My Sparkle's individuality right? So I would never want her to feel that she's somewhat compromised on this by supressing all of her wishes and thoughts with regards to herself.

Nope.

Never.

I'd never do that too Her.

Which is also another reason why I am super happy with my mind + heart for coming up with this Middle Ground Solution in the first place. For it's surely a compromised solution from both our ends.And I am glad my mind put use to some strategy + logic in there backed by the power of Love that I feel in my Heart for my Sparkle to finally come up with this.

And now – I just can't wait to talk about it to My Sparkle, because I obviously want to see that feeling of relief and happiness on her face too which I hope she feels after listening to what I had on my Mind. I also desperately hope that - this Middle Ground makes sense to her and that she agrees to it.( Chances are that she will. My Heart tells me the same)

Well to be honest – This Solution does not just make Sense to my Head. It makes sense to each of our family member's too.

Oh Yeah.

Ofcourse guys – I already discussed this bit out with everyone the minute it struck my mind while Khushi was sleeping. And it clicked in everyone's head and heart too and only relaxed them further in their beings with the thought that I would be able to convince My Sparkle to walk to this mid-point too, which was why they all went out to eat lunch all relaxed in the first place and Anj decided to take the power nap with the music plugged in her ears on the other side for she also felt like a huge heavy weight had been lifted off her heart once she had heard the mid ground - that the lack of sleep from last night had nudged her to catch up on some sleep first.

I am distracted from my deep inner thought as I hear Khushi ask softly after she places the finished glass of her iced- coffee back on the tray - " Love...there you go..see I am done eating and drinking up too, so now c'mon tell me...na..please?? like I really really want to know what's on your mind...please??uff ya..jaldi bolo na app...jaldi jaldi...like dear mind is all like what is it that Skipper Blue could think off and I couldn't...even though I have been raking my neurons left, right and center....like just what is it???? ufff..so much suspense you are creating ya Skipper Blue...now this is not a match thike?? where in everyone watching is holding on with bated breathes wondering which bowler you are going to hand the bowl to, to bowl the penultimate 19th over in a T20 match...on that note you do know na that you have that exact serious deep in thought look on your forehead at the moment, indeed...,"and she pauses and scrunches her nose adorably with narrowing her eyes too.

I chuckle a little on reflex at that adorable expression up her face and I say winking at her, lacing my right hand with her free right hand and kissing on it lovingly – " well Sparkle to be honest..you see this familiar deep in thought look on my face because somewhat you could say that this is like a intense match in between of us too right? as in the most sensitive disagreement we are talking our way through...and please know one thing for sure..this discussion isn't going to be about me winning with you listening to my point or you losing with compromising on yours..after we have talked this out, I most definetly want this to be like that situation of the Draw you know like we have in the Test Series where in even though both sides gave it their all playing five intense days of test cricket but since neither could win according to the rules by the time the test was scheduled to wrap up, the match was declared a Draw..,"and I pause for a second to kiss on her hand again as I ask further emotions returning to overwhelm my heart – " Sparkle...dil ki baton mein toh kabhi koi rule nai hota na..bass pyaar hi hai Sparkle..iss discussion ko mera pyaar samajhna please...yeh mat sochna ki main tumhari baat ki repsect nai rakhna chahta..ok??(theres no rules in the books of the heart+ love right..its only love Sparkle, and please consider the context of this discussion coming up next as just my deep love for you..please do not misunderstand it to be any sort off a disrespect towards you and your thoughts as an individual..ok??)..."

Khushi's eyes well up a little at that as she clutches on my right hand with her right hand – " ofcourse love..I would never misunderstand your intentions...thike??now please tell me...na...jaldi..jaldi,"and she pauses and narrows her eyes at me – " also love..why do I feel that everyone else already knows about what you are going to talk to me about?? As in that is why they left for lunch and Anj is sleeping on the other side so peacefully?? And also maybe because they just wanted to give us the privacy to talk this through maybe because everyone surely knew that you were going to barge in on me emotionally first??"

I nod at her with a little chuckle as I say sincerely – "well yes...Sparkle..you are right about that indeed..,"and I get up from my spot upfront now as I adjust the portable trolley of food aside and then place the tray back on the centre table and walk back to her side as I say – " well I can't wait to talk about it to you love..but just let me wedge you down a little to the position the nurses have advised us too after you have just eaten and after two minutes I will adjust you back to the flat position alright??"

Khushi nods at me at that and once I had finished adjusting her position, I take my seat up close in front off her so that we are looking at each other face to face and I take a deep breath and I bend forward to kiss her head first – before kissing her softly, gently and emotionally on her lips for about ten seconds or so.

Here we go Guys.

The Moment was Here.

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Khushi's POV

I feel Arnav's lips pull away from mine after that intense emotional soft, gentle and ten second brief kiss. Thankfully, because I am still like a little wedged up in bed I am able to cup his face tenderly more easily and caress his cheeks too as we both open our eyes to lock our equally emotional+ intense gaze with one another's.

Dear Mind + Heart. Now that I can sense that you both are out of that emotional Numbness. How about you get your Notepad and Files ready to soak in the Inputs about this Middle Ground – Arnav is referring too? For his eyes tell dear eyes that he is about to talk about this like – Finally.

Dear Heart+ Mind nod in a collective unison all emotionally overwhelmed. Yes – K. We are like all ready already, even before you said it! Don't you worry about us – K. We are right here all set to take it in. You just focus on Arnav now. We will chip in our inputs here and there in between if needed.

I return my attention to this Intense Emotional Silent Eyelock with Arnav.

I gaze into Arnav's intense eyes and he finally asks, caressing my right cheek lovingly – " okay so Sparkle..so to start with..I do want to ask you once again...that you did say that it's like super important for you as an individual to take your sports rehabilitation on independently right???the reasons for which you'v voiced out to us all and we obviously understand.."

I nod at Him – Sincerely and I add softly – " yes love...I..I...,"and I am unable to speak further as I feel Arnav's finger on my lips as he says – " shhh...shh...hear me out now..okay..first??just please hear me out.."

I nod at him.

Arnav smiles sincerely and he kisses my right cheek first and then clutches on my hand and locks his gaze directly with mine again – " so I'd like to start with saying that – that wish of yours is surely respected by not just me but us all, so you can totally tick mark that on your list as in – in the sense that we have absolutely no qualms or for none of us have any apprehensions with regards to that...in fact we would be more than just proud to see you take on the sport rehab bit on independently Sparkle...we'd be more than just proud.."

Ok.

Wait.

Dear Heart+ Mind pause on their Note taking – confused too. Just what is he trying to imply???

Arnav can surely catch the puzzlement and confusion in my eyes as he chuckles a little and kisses my nose next and says softly – " but well...Sparkle...listen to my words very carefully alright?? at the moment you are supposed to be on complete bed rest for the first four months completely right?? and your sports rehabilitation plus physiotherapy bit can only begin after those first four months are over..once your scans tell us that your back has healed, right??? so does it make sense to you if I say that it will be apt if we divide this six months period into two phases? The first four months of complete bed rest + the latter half of the two months which will constitute your intense rehab+ physio?? I mean why look at the stretch of Six months as just one phase for it most surely will differ in its happenings right..so we can totally handle it in two different ways completely too..right? does this make sense???"

Ahaaannn.

Hmmmm.

Oh Yes.

That Does Somewhat Makes Sesnse – Indeed!!

Dear Mind smirks too. Ahaaaa! Smarty Skipper Blue! He caught that bit through Logic indeed. Hey – K. He makes a fair point in there for sure. It does feel right to divide the Six months phase into two different columns. I am getting to that.

Dear Heart smiles deep in thought too getting on with it.

I nod at him sincerely as I give him a soft smile – " well yes...love..it does make sense to divide that timeline of six months into two phases..."

Arnav nods and smiles and says – " okay...great..now that we have a consensus to that first major bit, how about I wedge you down completely and we talk the rest out then??"

I nod at Him.

He adjusts me down completely, and then helps me readjust the supportive back belt around my midriff closing up on the valcro, snug for support(for I do loosen it up while eating – obviously).And once he is done with that, I gesture him to come lie to my right side like he was lying down prior to us taking that break for Eating.

He nods at me and smiles and does the same.

Once he is all adjusted close snug into my side and is all wedged up on his elbow and looking down at me, he finally says brushing his left hand over my head tenderly – "so now Sparkle... I propose to you this middle ground on this very accord – that for the first phase as in the first four months while you are confined to the situation of bed rest and are restricted in your normal day to day moments...do not expect any of us to leave you alone for we most surely do not have it in our hearts to do that until we see you healed to a certain point..Sparkle...,"and he pauses momentarily to kiss my forehead lovingly again and adds next – "and once we see that you are healed to that point off being back on your feet, and resuming your daily normal movements at the least four months later – we promise to let you take on your sport rehabilitation independently from there on...for then it's like at least you are back to a certain state of health right? and will be getting ready to step into intense rehab and physiotherapy to get yourself prepped up to pick up your bat and play again and that's surely another intense stage of a struggle/battle within too right?? that's the phase you are really keen on taking on independently right for your self- growth as an individual and sportsperson?? So you take that second phase on independently Sparkle..no worries...but until that second phase begins..do not ask any of us to leave you alone...how does this sound Sparkle?? a workable Middle ground perhaps???What does Dear Mind say now?? ,"and he pauses and laces his left free hand with my right free one into a combined grip and kisses on it and his gaze bares into mine like It does when he is reading me.

Dear Mind Smirks further.Smarty*Infinity Skipper Blue.Indeed. Just ask him to elaborate further please – K.

Dear Heart is continuing to smile and grin deep in thought too.

I kiss on his hand in our grip and I say softly – " dear mind wants you to Elaborate..please..love..."

Arnav nods and gives me his rakish side smile that I love immensely – " great...which means that Dear Mind is ready to process this further..which is good..indeed..,"and he pauses and kisses on my hand again and says – " look Sparkle...there are two thoughts that are in my mind...and I will voice both to you...look..like I said..one thing is for sure...please..we cannot leave you alone until the time you are on bed alright? so if you are like hell bent upon staying put right here in Sydney,Australia..then okay the only way we can take this on further is that – we will rent an apartment right here for you for you most surely will not be completing your bed rest bit out in the sports rehab facility and we will set it up for you and Nisha Mom, Sagar Dad, Rahul and Anj will take turns to be with you right here as in one month they will be here with you...and then Rahul plus Anjali will come in and then maybe Mom and Dad will come in after..but we will take turns on a monthly basis to be with you nonetheless...for those first four months...for we will not leave you alone...that is the first thought..that I could think off...,"and he pauses to just kiss on my forehead again.

OH NO.

Dear Heart + Mind chip in Unison. K - THAT WOULD DISRUPT EVERYONE'S LIVES EVEN MORE. And it makes no sense for them to just take turns in living here with you. Ask him what's the second thought? Please??oh wait..You know what? we think he purposely put this first thought out knowing it wouldn't feel right to us first so that – we would ourselves ask him for that second thought.Clever*Infinty – Indeed.We gotta knew name for him.Mr.Clever Fox.

I narrow my eyes at him as he pulls up and I say locking my gaze with his– " ohh godaamit..you...Arnav...you are totally like Mr.Clever Fox at the moment..I mean you do know I would never want to disrupt everyone lives that way...I mean it makes no sense for everyone to leave their lives behind and just take turns to live with me here ya even if it's like taking monthly turns..nope ..not happening......and I know that you know very well that once you voiced this bit off it out to me, I'd ask you for the second thought myself..haina??"

Arnav chuckles at that as he nods – " Yup...Sparkle...well its too my advantage that we know each other through and through right??"

I ask softly now – " uff yaa...yup..to your advantage indeed..acha thike..this first thought is ruled out for sure..so come on now..tell me...what's the second thought??"

Arnav bends forward to kiss the side of lips softly and then pulls up again to lock his emotional gaze with mine and he says now letting out a deep breathe – " ghar chalo(come home)..please...just come home Sparkle...for these first four months...while you are supposed to be on this intense bed rest..just come home..please...and after this bit off it is over..I promise you that we will all respect your wish of wanting to take on the second phase alone..we will also not ask you to take on your physio and sport rehab in Delhi as we were discussing prior if you want to take that on in a facility away from home...tum Bangalore chale jaana(you can head to Bangalore)..to NCA(National Cricket academy's ) sports and rehabilitation center there, where so many of us cricketers go for rehab after injuries infact off late they have some tie ups with some commendable private rehabilitation centres as well for like stay and accommodation in the evenings which kind off work in tandem with the team at the NCA so we will arrange for you to just stay put there within one of their facilities. For those two months..so that you can just focus on getting yourself fitter back to play..Sparkle...and once you go there...we promise...we will only meet you when you say you want to meet us...,"and he pauses and just kisses the other side of my lips and whispers further – " please..ghar chalo..Sparkle...just come home...please...I beg you...just come home..first..dammit...just come home...look I know love that you do not want anyone's life to get disrupted right?so just think this love...if you come Home...everyone can be relaxed to resume their daily lives during the day..as in we promise you will never feel that anyone's daily course was disrupted because of you and you can just focus on resting and studying while being at home too all day and in the evenings when anyway everyone comes home, and in the mornings prior to leaving for work and the nights – at least then they can be with you as per their wish and you can just be with them too..."

OH GODAMMIT HIM.

Dear Heart.K - Just why did he have to say – I beg You – in that vulnerable emotional tone??

Dear Mind musters deep in thought. Hmmmm – K.Well this does makes sense to some extent but I am only concerned about Him too.Tell him that. Remind Him that you do not want to be his Weakness or give him a Sense of Conflict in his Head.

I say overwhelmed honestly – " but love...you know very well that one of the other reasons why I didn't want to go back home wa..,"and I am unable to complete the sentence as I am kissed very emotionally yet again and Arnav pulls back from consuming both my lips with his ten seconds later and he adds next looking deep into my eyes – " I know..Sparkle...I know..it's because of the selfless ways in which you love me...I know you in and out right?? so listen to this Sparkle..i have a mid- ground solution for this too...even though its going to be insanely difficult to pull through but I can manage to pull that bit out for you ..for coming Home first is surely the better option for you nonetheless..."

Dear Heart Swells with Intense Deep Love for Him yet again.I ask softly now – " you have a middle ground solution for this too love?? you thought this through too??"

Arnav nods and he kisses on my forehead next and says softly – "look Sparkle...for no matter what...come what may..it is more important for me to know in my heart that you are not Alone and our surrounded by our families in these first vulnerable months of bed rest...so yes..I do have a solution for this too....even if this solution makes my heart intensely heavy..I'd go for it...because I'd rather have you Home...I'd just rather have you home..and for that if I have to make a compromise too..I will...giving your thoughts it's due too ," and he pauses as he closes his eyes momentarily and I do see that glimpse of ache + love take over his expressions all over his face.

Dear Hearts Leaps up with a Instant thought too as it says. Oh – K. If he actually has found a Middle Ground solution to this too, than we can surely go ahead with this without much Worries weighing us down Indeed. For this does seem all fair and square keeping in mind the emotions of all + what you need to do for yourself within as in individual when Rehab begins.

I ask softly caressing his cheek – "what is it that you'v thought off with regards to this love?? will you tell it to me now..I know it isn't easy for you too voice it out to me for the ache is evident on your face..."

Arnav nods and he says keeping his eyes closed – " yes it aches to even say this Sparkle...but I know you very well don't I?? I knew that I had to think of something with regards to this too...and atleast this bit of what I am about to say is much better a scenario which otherwise would have been given your prior point of view..."

I ask now just like he always often asks me – "open your eyes..please.."

He Does.

And I see them welled with ache, emotion, pain and intense love for me and he says now softly, hoarsely as if it were taking him all the strength within to even say this out – " tell me Sparkle if listening to this bit gives you any comfort on the other regard too..,"and he pauses and takes another deep breathe and adds – " if you say that you will come Home for the first four months for sure then ...I promise you..that I will only meet you before the start and at the end of my every tour in India from here on after we return...as in I will only meet you when I am defaulted to come Home anyway at the end off the tours for the couple of days break...Sparkle...I won't travel in between to you..no matter how much my Heart yearns to be by your side....even when I am in Delhi in the middle of the tours..I will stay in the Hotel with the team...I won't come Home....that I promise love...I will only see you..when I am scheduled to come Home for a couple of days break....,"and he pauses and keeps his forehead on mine closing his eyes again in an intense aching gesture as he whispers softly after – " but atleast don't take away those couple of hours and days from me Sparkle please...don't...just don't take those moment's away from me atleast..for even if I am able to see you just for 24-48 hours after the end of tours, my heart will soak in the strength to keep up this promise to you for your sake...please...just don't take those moments away from me please...dammit...Sparkle...please.....just come Home...dammit..."

Oh Godammit Him.

Now That he Put it that way in that Vulnerable Emotional Tone of his - Dear Heart really does not have it in it to take those couple of hours and Moments away in which we could actually see each other after his Tours End and he would be there at Home anyway.

I close my eyes now processing all of it In.And I hear him add further - "I promise Sparkle...I will never let you feel that you have caused any potential conflict in my head ever..I know this is important to you love too so with a very heavy heart if this is what I have to do to get you to agree to come Home...then I will do it..nonetheless...look love...I will promise you that I will go on with things on my professional end as per your wish if you just help me sustain that peace within my heart that while you are confined to bed...you are not Alone...for I know our families will take immense care of you on my behalf too..Sparkle...and while I am on tours we will just continue to stay connected strongly and virtually like we anyways do..all the time...Sparkle... ,"and he pauses and just hugs me into himself gently and asks burying his head into the crook of my neck kissing on my shoulder gently – " now what do Dear Mind and Heart say haan? Sparkle???"

Dear Heart + Mind Sigh overwhelmed and stumped with intense emotion too as they take it all in immensely moved by the Middle Ground Solution Arnav had come up with – really giving due and respect to each of my thought too no matter how much it was aching him within.They say in unison now. Hey – K. Just Hug on him tight before you get around to telling him what we are now thinking – will you please???

I whisper softly now wrapping my hands around his neck tighter – " just let me hug you first thike? love...just let me hug you first...,"and I pause and I ask sure that my voice was trembling – " bahut tang kar diya maine aapko...bahut tang kardiya na...(I have troubled you so much with all off this haven't I???) I am sorry love...I am so so sorry..."

Arnav pulls back immediately and he shakes his head in a No before putting his finger to my lips – " shh...shh..no...Sparkle..please...do not apologize...just tell me..please..I need to know..now that you have heard me out..tell me...what do you think off the same?? Yeh Middle Ground solution chalega??(will this middle ground solution do)?? Are you convinced to walk to this mid-point with me love??"

I ask Dear Heart and Mind for their Final Take On this.

Dear Heart + Mind grin through their overwhelmed emotions. K – Chalega. This Middle Ground Solution will do for sure.How can we not agree to walk to this Mid – Point, given the scenario that Arnav's done his best to do justice and be fair and square to the entire situation at Hand. To your individuality too.Come On – Go On. Tell Him the Same..poor Him – he's literally holding onto His Breathe waiting for you to answer.

Oh Yes. Dear Heart and Mind – I will give Him the answer for Sure.

But Only after I have Hugged Him Closer - when he is close enough in My Arms.

Because - I am pretty Sure – I Just fell Head Over Heels in Love with Him – All Over Again.

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Arnav's POV

Godaammit Sparkle.

Answer me – Dammit.

I won't be able to let go of my Breathe until you do.

Guys. Literally.

I am waiting with a bated breath to know her final answer to This. I know her Insides are at their Brainstorming Bit.

I just Hope she Agrees.

It is right then I see Khushi gesture me to come in closer for a Hug even though she still seems to be all lost deep in thought but I do obviously bend forward further to just engulf her in my arms gently and it is right then I hear her whisper into my ears, with her voice trembling – " chalega...love..chalega...this middle ground solution will work for sure...I am all set to walk to this Mid-Point with you...how can I not? Given the thought, love and respect you'v put into it...my skipper blue...always playing fair and square...infact just chalega nai...dodega Skipper Blue...this will work perfectly both ways.....thank you love...thank you so much for thinking this through in a more balanced way than me...thank you *infinity love...dear mind says it wants to give you the oscar for being thr Mr.Clever Fox at the moment too..for you literally just figured out..what it couldn't...."

OK.

REMEMBER THE STATEMENT I STARTED WITH A WHILE BEFORE?

WHERE IN I MENTIONED – HOW RELEIVED I WAS?

YEAH?

I THINK I'D LIKE TO ADD TWO MORE CENTURIES IN THERE and say that to say that I was kind off – Relieved*Infinity at the moment would surely be an Understatement of the Freaking 17th+18Th 19th+20th+21st Century for Sure.

I pull back immediately from our embrace and I cup my Sparkle's face lovingly as I see the tears of relief now streaming down her eyes and I admit my own eyes welling up with intense emotion at seeing that expression of relief in her eyes – " Sparkle..you have no idea how much I was dying to see this expression of relief in your eyes..love....,"and she nods and says looking deep into my eyes caressing my cheeks too – " I feel so relieved love...I feel so relieved...knowing that I will be able to do what I want for myself too without hurting you or anyone in the process...,"and she pauses and adds sincerely just closing her entire palm over my left cheek – " you know na Love..its going to be difficult for me too right? to only just see you at the end of your tours?? But its something that we must do nonetheless..given the circumstance...you understand where I am coming from na love?? you aren't like mad at me for this na..please?? just tell me that..once again...I just hope you don't feel mad at me for this..."

I turn my head to kiss her palm as I say honestly – " no..Sparkle..I am not..mad...I know that this bit is going to be equally difficult for us both...but then in my heart I can still handle that given the fact that I know I am respecting a wish of your's which is driven by your selfless love for me...and then ofcourse..I promised you didn't I? that I'd play on your behalf too??? For I obviously knows what our game is to you in your heart...So don't worry my love..that promise stands as is.."

Khushi gestures me to bend forward and I do and she kisses my head next and says with a heartfelt emotional smile up her face – " listen you Skipper Blue..but once I go into the NCA's sports rehab facility na..I will only see you after I am able to pick up my bat and play, for I will tell myself that everyday that if I want to see you soon, than I most surely have to keep giving my rehabilitation my all...thike? chalega? Promise me.. you won't find ways to come to me Bangalore then thike??? pakka se wala promise karo aap "

I smile at that as I nod in compromise – " thike..done Sparkle..pakka se promise*inifinty...I can most surely do that then...you understand don't you love?? I first need to just see you recovered into your normal self to some extent atleast before you take on the second phase by yourself...please know that I have full faith in your self-conviction my love...I respect your core thought immese..Sparkle..I honestly do...for I know how important that is to you...but I will be more comfortable in my heart love to know that you are at least still in India and in Bangalore...which is just a Two hours 30 minute flying distance from Delhi and anyone from home can come to you anytime you wish them too ..like atleast you will still be within reachable distance in no time and not locked up in a foreign land across the seven sea's...you wanted to throw yourself into a new environment na love in rehab.. toh thike..done...do that most surely...love.. but in our home country..."

Khushi nods at me in happiness and she gestures me to come in for another hug and I obviously do.

We hug each other – Hard.And she whispers into my ears – " yes..yes...I get you love..I truly do...it's a done deal then Skipper Blue..,"and she pauses and sighs – " but love since you are in your Mr.Clever Fox mode..why don't you help me find a solution to this air ambulance bit too love? as in I'd just hate to board it ya..."

I kiss her ear softly as I whisper – " okay then...Sparkle..I think I have a solution to that too..let me ask Superman for that flying cape of his for sure..than I'd be the one to fly you back home across the seven seas in my arms..."

That makes us both share a warm chuckle and I pull back as I fight back a sigh and I admit – "apologies...Sparkle...if only there was a way out to this. Unfortunately there isn't..."

Khushi sighs and nods as she says – " I know love..there isn't..thike...I will get around to dealing with that bit ya..now that ..that is the only way out.."

"you will be okay love...you will be okay...,"I add reassuringly in support to her before bending forward to kiss her again.

30 seconds later, I pull back grinning and I ask – " toh ab ghar chalne ki tayari on..Sparkle?? you know given the fact your dear eyes confirm to me that this discussion has indeed ended in a mutual beneficial draw....."( so now we should keep our preprations on to take you back Home...right Sparkle??)

Khushi nods as she grins – " yes...love...On..pakka se On..for this is a mutual beneficial Draw for sure,"and she pauses and adds her eyes welling up happily – " thank you so much for this...love..thank you..."

I narrow my eyes at her as I say – " shut you up..darling...please...don't...don't say that to me..please.."

Khushi nods and she says – " okay then can I say something else??"

I nod.

She gives me a heartfelt smile – " Life is a long journey na love..we don't know what will come our way..but from next time too...whenever moments like this come and I am caught up in that helpless maze feeling like as if I were drifting towards a far tangent in the mission of finding out my way..always just hold my hand tight and help me steer towards a Mid course..thike??like you did today..and I promise you that I will try to do the same too.."

I nod at Her in acknowledgement of the Same – immediately – of course.

And We each other Hard again.

I whisper into her ears to say while holding onto her tight– "so Sparkle. Everyone is waiting for my text on the same as in they did say that they will only come back into the room after our talk was done and I had discussed it all out with you...even Anj said to only wake her up after...and I am sure everyone is getting in worked up in anticipation to know the outcome of our discussion..but before I get to that...you won't mind if I just take these next four to five minutes to just Kiss you...because once everyone arrives I won't be able too and then Cap, Rohan, and Ravi will come too..which means that I won't get any privacy with you until much later..and I know this is me being selfish..but you know I can't help but be my selfish self when it comes to y......,"and I am unable to complete my sentence as Khushi pulls me in for an emotional vulnerable kiss immediately.

And to Be Honest – You All.

I think I need to be Fair and Square in Adding a Couple of More Centuries in that very statement I started with in the Beginning and just say that – To Say that I was kind off feeling – Relieved*Infinity at the moment would surely be an Understatement of the Freaking 15th+16th+17th+18Th +19th+20th+21st Century for Sure.

And Another Best Part at the Moment was the fact that I wasn't the only one who was basking in the Feel of This Magnitude off Relief.

My Sparkle was Too.

And I knew – that Our Families would be feeling the pretty same Too when they found out.

Guys.

Do not Laugh Out Loud at Me For This but it totally feels like My Sparkle's avatar is rubbing onto me at the moment, for I think for the first time ever I can actually visualize my very own Heart and Mind – raising a toast to one another in Glee – for coming up with this Solution in first place!!

And What Do I Do?

I do exactly what My Sparkle would have done in her Inner thoughts – obviously.

I mentally raise a Toast Back to them – Indeed.

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

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

TADAAAA.

How was the Update Guysssss?? What do you all think about This Mid Course – Solution??Do you all think that It is All Fair and Square – both ways too???????? Will be waiting to know what you all think!!

Next Chapter : Will be On Tuesday Evening.

Happy Weekend You All.

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love.

Always.

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

Skipper has thought this through really well. His plan makes a lot of sense. But still it will be a good bit of trouble for the family.

Glad she agreed superb update

They know each other too well. They know what will work with the other and how the other thinks.

Helloooo everyoneeeee..

So here I am with the First Update of the week. And its about medium- long Length – around 7.8k words.

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

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Copyright Disclaimer :

Text Copyright©mysticaltales11111™2020

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All Rights Reserved® mysticaltales11111

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CHAPTER 41.3 – 'YOU' & 'US'

SEVEN DAYS LATER

DELHI, INDIA

12TH FEB, 2020

8:30PM @ SIDDHI( GUPTA MANSION)

Nisha smiles to herself, as she steps out of Khushi's room closing the door shut. As a mother, she was beyond just relieved and content over the fact that – Her Little Girl was finally home with them for the duration of the next three and a half vulnerable months of her bed rest.

They had all just reached home around 90 minutes ago – after all those hectic hours of long transit from Sydney to Delhi.

She pauses in her tracks suddenly as she sees Anjali and Rahul walking up to Khushi's room and she asks them – " all relaxed and freshened kids??".

They nod in unison and ask– " yes Mum..we were just coming by to see Junior..,"and Rahul adds further – " Mum..is Junior resting? As in is she asleep??given that you are walking out her room at the moment..."

Anjali smiles – "yes, Mum..in fact that's why we were coming over too..so that you could just freshen up and relax a little for you and Dad have been by Junior's side ever since we reached home.."

Nisha gives them a heartfelt smile – " Khushi asked her beloved Daddy to just relax and freshen up about ten minutes ago as she woke up from the little nap and I too nudged him to carry on...but...no Rahul, Anj...she is not resting in the sense your junior is just freshening up and changing into a fresh pair of tracksuit and Lila Didi is with her...you know how Khushi has always been so dear to her..she says..Nisha Bhabhi you don't worry at all..I will be by Khushi beta's side 24*7..I will also sleep in her room only..you know just in case she needs any assistance in the night..."

Anjali smiles – " yes Mum..I know what you mean..infact KP bhaiya(another of the household's loyal staff) was just telling me that Lila Didi couldn't stop her happy tears while she was awaiting our return..I mean we all know how she was too shaken and worried over Junior's injury too.. "

Rahul nods fondly too – " only natural ya Anj..I mean Lila Didi has been with us for over a decade now, when she came in Junior was just a little over 11.."

Lila Didi – was one of the loyal home staff at the Gupta's and had been with the family for more than a Decade.

Nisha nods with a heartfelt smile – " yes kids..so Lila is helping her sponge and freshen up for I didn't allow Khushi to exert immediately as we had just reached home right? just lying down straight for these 90 minutes and catching up on a power nap was important for her as in the long haul travel has been hectic enough for her back..," and she pauses and adds with a sigh – " well I do think I will suggest her to take that painkiller tonight..you know just in case..."

Rahul asks concerned – " wait..mum..is she in pain? As in did she say that she was like in a state of pain beyond the threshold she has now become used too? I mean the doctors did say that the long haul travel can lead to some exertion right?? although yes on that note we do have to commended the excellent medical services of the air ambulance nurses...nonetheless..."

Nisha sighs as she admits – "yes to the latter for sure Rahul beta..for they helped us expedite the formalities after at the airport too.. do remember to give in good feedback...,"and she pauses and Rahul nods at her in acknowledgement of the same and she adds further with a sigh – "well Khushi didn't say that she was in extra pain or something beta..but I am her mother right? I can read her eyes..she surely is a little uncomfortable because off the same..but then I guess the sleep tonight will help her surely, she should be feeling better tomorrow. I am also having our Dr.Suneel(family's general physician) come in first thing tomorrow morning to just check up on her..you know because I think it's just better to have him monitor her overall whilst she is on bed rest for all these months..."

Anjali and Rahul nod in unison at that and Anj says – " yes..Mum..that would be great actually, in fact the two of us were also just discussing the same..,"and she pauses and narrows her eyes at Nisha who was the second motherly figure in her life and she asks – " but..wait..Mum..whilst we were walking to Junior's room and you stepped out smiling to yourself...I just thought that your heartfelt smile did not reach your eyes like it usually does..all okay with you??"

Rahul narrows his eyes at his mother as he listens to Anjali pointing that out too and he adds putting his arm around his mother's shoulders – "Mum..see..I thought that too..but then I thought maybe you are just worried for Junior like generally.."

Nisha sighs as she gestures Rahul + Anjali to walk with her to her room now and they all begin to do that and she says – " well..I am okay...actually just a tad bit deep in thought.."

Rahul and Anjali ask in unison – " deep in thought over what Mum..??"

Nisha sighs – "over the discussion your Mausa(uncle) is having with Sagar right now..I mean your Masi and him called obviously to check on Khushi generally and they spoke to her too for a bit but then after that part of it, he wanted to talk to Sagar and he got into a little discussion...with regards to his opinions over this entire scenario with Khushi...which was I nudged Sagar to have the remainder of his conversation away from Khushi...,"and she pauses and adds – " I mean I do not want to add more Khushi's worries right now.."

Anjali sighs as she nods – " Yup..Mum..you are right about that..I mean no matter how positive Junior is trying to stay, we all know that this staying put on bed is frustrating her too..which is only natural ofcourse...but wait..what was this discussion about exactly??"

Rahul asks puzzled too – "exactly my point Mum..thanks Anj for voicing it out for me.. like mausaji never talks out of line..he loves Junior insane like us all...so what is it that's got you deep in thought and worried now Mum??"

Nisha sighs as she answers – "something on the lines off how we should encourage Khushi to just think of a back-up plan for her career nonetheless...as in...everyone in the family knows na beta that she has only been focused on cricket.."

Rahul asks zapped and dazed – " wait..what?? why would he say such a thing in the first place.."

Anjali asks zapped too – " exactly..why?? why even suggest this? When they all clearly know what cricket is too Junior and how this whole scene off just not being able to play for the next so many months is taxing her emotionally already..."

Nisha nods as she explains – "kids..as much as I got the hunch off it..i think he means well...his intentions aren't wrong...I think he was implying towards a scenario where in what if in the future an injury can be bad enough to rule out play forever..then what??your Masi has seen something like that happening to me right?? so yeah..I think they are just concerned and worried..."

Rahul sighs – "ohh god ya Anj..Mum...Junior surely doesn't need this thought at the moment..so its good that you asked Dad to step out to talk the rest..I mean let's just thank the fact that as off now .....nothing of such sort has happened...."

Anjali nods – " know what Rahul, Mum? let's just ask Dad what the entire discussion was about?? Now that we are minutes away from your room anyway..Mum.."

Nisha nods at that and they all get in and they spot a deep in thought Sagar pacing in the living area of the room and Nisha walks upto him immediately as she asks rubbing on his arm lovingly – "Sagar..you okay??"

Sagar nods at her – " yes yes..okay..Nisha.."

Rahul asks – " Dad..are you still deep in thought? Over what Mausaji said??Mum just told us.."

Sagar shakes his head in a negative as he gestures Nisha that he will fill her in on the rest of the talk in private and Nisha nods in acknowledgement on the gesture and Sagar says to Rahul +Anjali – " no Rahul, Anj...I am not in thought over the same...and he was just expressing his opinions out of worry and concern, that bit off it I could easily catch on...,"and he pauses and just shrugs his shoulders and adds – " anyways I do not want to talk about that bit right now amongst ourselves...for we have just reached home with Khushi...,"and he pauses and says to Nisha further – " come on Nisha...we are all changed and freshened up, you too hurry up and do the same so that we can all lounge in Khushi's room over dinner together...,"and he pauses and looks at Anj to ask – " Arnav and Akash will be here soon too right? as per the plan??"

Anjali nods grinning – "well yes Dad...Bhai and Akash should be here any minute soon...I mean we all know he was so bummed out that only two of us were allowed to travel in the air ambulance with Junior..and me and Mom took that spot alongside her all the way here...and then of course Junior coaxed him into going home first to just change and freshen up too...so yeah...I think he will be here like super soon...Mom, Dad, and Dadi will come in tomorrow though...since Junior did coax Mom and Dad into catching up on some rest and relaxation time ..."

Nisha nods and grins and adds– " I know Anj, which is fair too for we have all returned home after 17 days...,"and she pauses and sighs happily in relief – " well I do have to thank Arnav again for coming up with this brilliant solution in the first place..."

Sagar grins at that – " Copy that Mrs Gupta..and we will thank him again collectively once he comes..for sure..again.."

Anjali chuckles to that – " oh Dad..please...just how many times will you say that to Bhai...you very well know what his reaction is going to be yet again.."

Sagar and Nisha share a happy chuckle at that as they say – " oh yes...we know that for sure beta..but still..,"and Sagar pauses and adds with a heartfelt smile – " but to be honest beta..it moves and warms my heart immense to see Arnav and Khushi together..I mean after just observing on them closely for the last whole week too in the hospital back in Sydney, a part of me does feel like – they are already so deeply committed to one another emotionally anyway, that it's almost like as if they were married to one another already...so maybe their wedding towards the latter part of this year is just like a religious formality..,"and he pauses and adds feeling very content within as a father – " I mean ..just the way he cares, loves and understands my little girl..brings me so much happiness within..he knows how to handle her through and through with patience and love...he just accepts her for who she is as is...."

Rahul nods at that feeling a happy overwhelmed feeling take over his heart too – " Yes Dad...I know exactly what you mean...you know when I first found out about that somewhere within the back of my head I would think to myself at times that what if the age difference in between Junior and Arnav can be like a issue of concern at times..but turns out...I had nothing to worry about at all.."

Anjali nods beaming happily – " and that's because Rahul...bhai knows Junior through and through right? he doesn't expect her to think or act from his perspective ever..he wants her to stay true to herself and he greatly respects her growth at it's own steady pace as an individual too..he loves her as is..and the same goes for Junior..."

Nisha nods happily at them all as she says – " and I am delighted to say that I am proud of all my kids, not just Arnav and Khushi but you too Rahul and Anjali for we have both keenly observed how you too are very flexible towards respecting the other's individuality...too.."

Rahul grins as he side hugs Anjali to himself – " what can I say Mum..we'v learnt it from you all I guess..I mean Junior and me have surely observed you two over years and Anj and Arnav, and Akash have seen Reva aunty and Abhi Uncle...you all define love and respect for us to another tangent as partners altogether...aapne hi toh sikhaya hai ki kissi se behad pyaar karne ka matlab apne aap ko bhul jaana nahi hota..kisii se pyaar karne ka matlab yeh hai..ki jisse bhi pyaar karo..usse uski individuality ke saath accept karo dil se..usse apne hisaab se badalne ki koshish na karo ...bass ek dusre se battein karte raho..ek doosre ko samajhte chalo....phir zindagi ke safar pe differences tang nai karenge......" ( for you all have taught us that loving someone wholeheartedly and sincerely does not mean that you forget your own self in the process but instead it means that love the one you do as is, for who they are accepting their individuality truly from the heart never trying to manipulate them into change as per your whims and fancies..just keep talking to each other...keep trying to make that effort to understand one another..for then the differences in opinions down the time in Life won't seem like a trouble at all...)

Anjali nods and adds overwhelmed hugging onto Rahul– " exactly...Mum...Mom and Dad have always said the same too..."

Sagar nods looking at Nisha grinning - " and trust me anj beta..only because off Abhi and Reva bhabhi...I have no hangups and worries about seeing Khushi off so young..for I know she will just be stepping into another Home.."

Anjali nods and grins – " just like I have Dad.."

Nisha and Sagar gesture Rahul and Anjali to come in for a group hug and they do. Sagar adds further his heart all overwhelmed – " I cannot begin to tell you all.. how relieved and content I am feeling over the thought that we are all finally Home with Khushi...I cannot put the feeling to words..."

Nisha, Rahul, Anjali nod in an overwhelmed acknowledgement of the same and they say in unison smiling – " it's the same for us all too...,"and they all return to the Mini family group hug, each of them feeling beyond just content over the fact that – they were all – finally – Home.

That their Khushi was Home Too.

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

100 Minutes Later

Arnav POV

Sagar Dad nods at me as he says with a heartfelt smile and wink– " ok then Mr Stranger, I shall now leave you for some alone time with my little girl, for I guess that's exactly what you'v been hoping for ever since you came in.."

I wink back at him happily at that as I add – " well Sagar Dad..I cannot deny that ofcourse...but nonetheless I love hanging out with you all too and you know that..also as much as I know you love pulling my leg by calling me Mr Stranger..I love the sound of Arnav beta more from you..,"and I pause and I add looking at Nisha Mom – "from you too Nisha Mom.. also yes...the dinner was great..really enjoyed it.."

Nisha Mom nods at me happily as she says – " thank you beta..,"and she nudges onto Sagar Dad – " come on Sagar...let's go now...give them some alone time..."

Sagar Dad nods at that happily.

And they both pat on my arm lovingly and start walking down the corridor ahead of Khushi's room to head to theirs.

Akash, Rahul and Anj walk out from behind me – coming out of Khushi's room too now and they add grinning in unison – " ok then...Junior is surely awaiting for you to join her back in..she did just get a call as we were stepping out too.."

I nod at them at that happily and Rahul hugs me suddenly and he says the underlying brotherly emotion evident in his voice – " I am glad that Junior has You..Arnav.."

I hug him back happily and I say – "and I am glad I have her too Rahul...also I am equally glad that Anj has You.."

And we all share a warm chuckle at that and Anjali says now holding onto Rahul's arm – " come on Rahul...give my brother some alone time with your sister now..,"and she pauses and winks at me – " bhai..akash, me and Rahul are just chilling in our room for a bit now..we won't come by to disturb you two..don't you worry..for we know we have troubled you enough by not giving you a second alone with Junior alone until now..."

Akash chuckles as he adds faking a sincere tone – " yes bhai..don't you worry...if Rahul tries to find some excuse to be around Junior for the next one hour or so than you just be rest assured that your siblings shall corner him and stop him.."

I nod at the three of them happily once more at that and I watch them Leave. The smile on each of their faces spoke volumes about how content each of them were feeling within at finally being Home with My Sparkle – after all these days.

Just as I am about to slide the door shut to Khushi's room – I see Lila didi (who has decided to be by Khushi's side 24*7 for assistance) walking out with a couple of bottles of water in hand and I say to her politely – " didi..aap bhi khana khalo abhi..main hun yahan khushi ke saath..."( didi..you also eat your dinner in the meanwhile and then come..I am here with Khushi until then..)

She nods at me politely and makes her way out too.

I close the Door Shut.

Finally.

I have some alone time with My Sparkle.

I mean – Guys – ever since we left the Hospital in Sydney beginning our transit for Home, I haven't had any alone time with her at all. Because she was travelling in the air ambulance with Nisha Mom and Anjali and they had like separate set of formalities to go through during travel apart from the general passenger planes at both departure in Sydney and arrival, here in Delhi. And then even though I wanted to come straight here with Rahul and Sagar Dad – Khushi coaxed me into going home on the account that she was going to catch on some sleep and rest once home and asked me to use that time to just freshen up before I could join them all for dinner here with Akash.And ever since Akash and me arrived her 95 minutes ago – we all have been camping by in Khushi's room in a full fledged family scene.

So Yeah.

I just can't wait to be with her for a while as Just Us. Also because I only have the remainder of tonight and tomorrow to spend some quality time by her side, before I am scheduled to re-join my cricketing duties besides my Squad.(As per the promise made to My Sparkle)

I take a deep breathe and make my way back through the living area in her room to the bedside of the motor-red Hospital cot that Rahul and Sagar Dad had installed by the side of her usual bed so that it was easier for her to wedge up and down in position without much physical exertion.

But the minute I take in the sight of my Sparkle with her one full hand rested across her forehead over her eyes and a line of tear trailing down her cheek – worry and concern return to engulf me as I stride my way to her side faster and I sit on the side of the bed that was empty next to her and I touch her hand (that was on her forhead gently) ask worried – " Sparkle...what's wrong??why is this line of tear trailing down your cheek..??"

And to my relief she pulls her hand away off her forhead instantly and gives me a heartfelt smile through her tears as she says – " uff ya..love..this line of tear is like a line of tear out of happiness..thike??I am just super moved at the moment ya.. acha..guess...guess..what happened??"

I wipe the line of tear away gently off her cheek and I ask locing my gaze with her's cupping her right cheek lovingly – " please don't ask me to go on a guessing spree right now Sparkle..you only tell me.."

Khushi nods happily as she says – " thike..I will only tell you...so I had a message on whtsapp from Madan..he must have messaged while we were all having dinner..I saw it as you walked Mom and Dad out and everyone else was also starting to leave..so basically he was asking – didi..are you back? The news up online tells me that you are back in India..that you arrived later this evening..please call me once whenever you are free..I want to talk to you and wish you well...so as everyone was heading out I called him na..he started crying first..telling me how worried he had been..and how he and Choti and everyone in the village had been praying for my well being and then he said something like – didi jab se appko chot lagi hai na tab se maine decide kiya ki bhagwan bass aapko thik karde to main wahi karunga jo aap chahete ho...aur main tab se sirf padhai kar raha hun aur khel raha hoon..coach sir bhi aaj meri batting practice se bahut khushi the...aap dekhna didi..aapko main kuch banke dikhaunga..aap bas thik ho jao..jaldi se.."( didi..ever since you were injured I have been praying to god daily and have decided in my heart that I will only do what you guided me to do from here on for sure and I have only been studying and playing ever since, even Coach Sir was very happy with my batting performance today...you see Didi..I will work very hard and make something out of my Life didi for your sake..you please just get well soon)

I smile at that Moved.

Immensely Moved.

I know My Sparkle has made such a difference in Madan's life with her kindness and compassion and more so – with her time too in every little way that she can.

I totally understand why he is so Moved and Driven at the moment.

I rub on Khushi's right cheek tenderly – " acha..this is amazing news Sparkle...and knowing you, I am sure you must have answered him something like – Madan..tu meri chinta mat kar..main thik ho jaungi..bass padh aur khel..kuch bana hai tujhe zindagi mein...par mere liye nahi...sirf apne liye..aur choti ke liye..aur apne pure parivaar ke liye.." (because I know you so well Sparkle – I am sure you must have answered him with something like, Madan you please don't worry much about me for I will be fine soon..you just focus on playing and studying for you most surely have to make something out of your life, but not for my sake but for your very own sake and for your little sister and the sake of your family..)

Khushi's eyes widen at that a little as she shakes her head at me adorably – " aapp naaa...uff..."( you...na...uff...)

I chuckle at that as I kiss her forhead – " yahi kaha na tumne usse..Sparkle??" ( this is exactly what you told him right?? Sparkle??"

Khushi nods at me happily and she says – " yes..exactly...like ditto..like you just guessed it word to word..ya not fair thike??"

I chuckle as I caress her left cheek with my other hand too holding her face in my hands tenderly and I say – " I know you na...Sparkle...which is how I can also exactly notice the fact that you are a tad bit uncomfortable too right now..you ar ein pain love..and I know that...your dear eyes tell me that very easily even though you are trying to mask it from us all...look Sparkle..if the back's paining beyond the threshold of you can bear then please take that painkiller darling...I know that you'v been trying to do without them for the last one week specially but still sweetheart..the long haul transit has surely caused in some exertion nonetheless right..."

Khushi's eyes well up with that further and she says softly – " well to be honest..I was thinking..to take that painkiller in ten minutes or so..anyway..love.."

I kiss her forehead – " why not take it now love?? if the pains causing so much discomfort..you don't need to torture yourself with it beyond a certain point love..the doctors did say you can easily take upto three tablets in a day for this first month right and you'v just been taking one...for the last whole week..."

Khushi sighs and nods – " okay...yes..I think I will take one now..itself.."

Wait.

What?

She agreed?

Just Like That?

For in this last one week everytime I have tried to coax her into having another painkiller when she's looked uncomfortable she always says – " uff ya love..don't worry...I can bear it..I have to get used to it..to that threshold of pain..now how many painkiller will I keep popping into my systems..."

So that means – I read it right. She is quite uncomfortable. The tablet needs to get into her System – Now.

I keep my sincere penetrating locked on her vulnerable face as I get up from her side and take in the tablet from the side table and help her take in the same by drinking up some water too.

Once she was done – I pull my hand back from behind her neck and keep the glass of water aside and she adjusts her head back on the pillow and closes her eyes shut momentarily.

Ok.

Something's Not Right.

I take both her hands in mine and kiss on them lovingly and I ask softly – " what's wrong Sparkle..??"

She whispers softly in a voice that was almost trembling – " kuch nai hua..love...kuch bhi toh nai hua..."( nothing's wrong love..nothing is wrong at all..)

I kiss on her hand again – " really?Sparkle?? once again..are you trying to hold back on your tears in front of mee??"

Khushi nods keeping her hand back across her forehad covering her eyes up – " I don't want to cry ya..love..I don't want too...I don't want but...,"and she pauses sighs – "god this is embarrassing..for the first time ever..I don't know if I want to voice this out too you..."

Her Tone.

Its way too Vulnerable.

It aches me within.

Immense.

I kiss her hand again lovingly again and I ask softly – " I want to lie down next to you...Sparkle?? Can I??"

Khushi nods with her hand still over her forehead over her eyes.

I adjust myself next to her and wedge up on my elbow and I bend forward and kiss her nose – " please...talk to me ..love...you don't need to be embarrassed about anything at all..it's me.."

Khushi nods and sighs and admits in her vulnerable and trembling voice – " I feel frustrated..so so frustrated as in dear mind can't help but feel so so frustrated within at so many tangents – like at least on this one....I do just want to be able to just feel like I can be by myself in the washroom or atleast shower at the least on my own...even if I haave to be sitting on a chair in the shower cabinet..but nope..am not allowed...I hate that I need help in there too like everytime..like in the washroom while sitting up ...plus I'v just had to make a do with all this body sponging for all this while now..and I somewhat feel disgusted within... I mean I haven't showered in days love...like Lila Didi used to help me in dress up and stuff when I was like 11....I hate this ya...love...."

I pull her gently in my loving embrace and I hug her close and I whisper kissing her shoulder – "Sparkle...I understand love...I understand...it's going to be okay soon love...it's going to be okay...your back needs the time to heal..okay??"

Khushi whispers softly wrapping her arms around my neck in that similar vulnerable voice – " I know..it needs that time..but ..,"and all of a sudden she pauses and loosens her grip around my neck and touches my shoulder trying to push me away – "you know what?? now that I just said it aloud Skipper Blue..you just move away from me thike? I mean I haven't like showered in days...don't hug me..."

Is she Mad?

Has she Lost it?

I hug her back instantly ofcouse.

Gently.

But I Hold her Close – Tight and Snug.

And I kiss her ear lovingly – " shut you up...Sparkle...shut you up..don't you push me away..."

And just as I do that – Khushi breaks down in my arms and she clutches onto my tee over my heart and buries her head in my chest and keeps crying.

I let her vent it out for a Minute or So obviously as I just hold her close and then it strikes me.

There's surely something more at the back of her Head.

I kiss on her head lovingly as I ask – " kuch aur baat bhi haina? Sparkle??"(there's something more in there too right?? isn't it??)

Khushi nods clutching onto my tee in her fist.

I say immediately – "knew it..freaking knew it..what is it??"

Khushi continues to sob brokenly in my arms as she asks – " khel paaungi na main?? Phir se??(will I be able to play again??) I have never been out of playing for this long and what if after six months by the time I recover and am allowed to play...dear mind goes into like a brain freeze moment and am unable to pick up my bat at all..just what if I can never play again??"

OH GODAMMIT.

I kiss her shoulder lovingly in support.

I pull back instantly from the warm hug and wipe her aching tears off her cheeks and whisper softly holding her face gently in my hands – " shhh you...Sparkle...what are you even saying dammit?? Do not let your mind go there alright?? look love...I understand that its natural for these fears to play on your mind right now given the vulnerability you are fighting within...but no..you cannot let these thoughts weigh you down...ofcourse you will play again love...like I am dead sure of that...won't you ask me why ?? why I am so sure??you won't go into a brain freeze moment for sure when you pick up your bat months from now..."

Khushi locks her tearful gaze with mine as she asks – " how is it that you are so sure ya love?? this is natural as in it could happen to anyone right??like when you don't play for that long??"

I nod at that but I admit sincerely – " yes I know Sparkle...that this could happen to anyone..but I am dead sure that this won't happen to you ever because as much as I know you...I can technically anyway say that the blood in your veins is kind of blue...you live cricket meri jaan...it flows naturally to you so so naturally...so I am most dead sure that the first ball you take on after months will fly into the air for a sixer for sure in your killer little hit girl style...indeed..."

Khushi gestures me to come in for a hug immediately and I do hug her tight and she continues to vent out her fears in my arm through her tears for two more minutes and she whispers softly after– " I hope so love...I desperately hope so..but to be honest love...at the moment I have these thoughts within...that I have never really ever thought of a back up plan in my life ever...as in that I have been so focussed on just cricket that I never sort of accommodated any levy in my head for the thought that what if a situation in life arises that I cannot play again...as in what if my health doesn't allow...as in I am going to recover from this injury eventually that I know..but our sport or any sport for that matter is prone to injuries right? so what if ever a situation arises that I cannot play again..tab kya? Do you think that I must think of a back up plan for myself in my head nonetheless?? You know just in case??"

Ok.

Wait.

Now that she put it that way – to be Honest – even I have never ever thought off a Back Up Plan, like ever.

I pull back from hugging her and I admit sincerely – " Sparkle...to be honest..you know I have never thought off a back up plan ever too..."

Khushi nods as she says adjusting her head back in the pillows as she wipes her tears – " I know love..I know...that's what I was thinking..that we just take things for granted sometimes no..I mean I always thought that I could just go on doing my thing...without ever thinking of any other possibility in my head..but now.."

I keep my finger on her lips as I ask puzzled – " shh..shh..Sparkle..first you tell me..how did this thought even get triggered in the first place??"

Khushi whispers softly – " dad was talking mausaji..thike?? I think this was what the discussion was about...as in after talking to me he just wanted to talk to Dad and I got the gist of it well in time even though Mom then gestured Dad to go talk on the other side...but please don't tell them thike?? I mean in front of Mom I just

pretended that I didn't hear anything at all...I mean I know mausaji means well and was just expressing his concerns about the same...but it just had me thinking na...and ever since then dear mind has just been on an overdrive...as in...I live and breathe cricket, right? I never for once thought if not this than what???should I think off a back up love??"

UGGHH MAUSAJI.

REALLY?

WAS THIS THE TIME TO DISCUSS THIS?

I MEAN – I KNOW YOU MEAN WELL – BECAUSE YOU LOVE KHUSHI INSANE.

BUT STILL.

GUYS – I HAVE MET HIM OBVIOUSLY RIGHT? – Over Rahul and Anj's wedding festivities , so yes I don't doubt his intentions at all. I just don't think he had his timing right!

I sigh as I brush my hand over Khushi's forehead lovingly – " what does Dear Heart say? Haan? Do you feel like you want to think off a back up for Real Sparkle??"

Khushi nods – " well dear heart says that there is no harm in safeguarding oneself right? as in keeping a Plan B in place isn't like a bad thing but I just need to think this through..as of now..I just feel lost..because I have simply no clue ya...,"and she sighs and adds – " I will just take time to think this through nonetheless.."

I kiss her forehead again – " ok then Sparkle...listen to what the heart says alright? but then don't let the frustration overwhelm you na? I mean even if you are thinking of Plan B think of a Plan B that will make you happy within..."

Khushi nods at that and sighs – " I know...but now dear mind is all like overworking and being all like I shall now have Plan B, C, D , E, F, G in place too...give me some time K..I will figure this out..,"and she pauses and chuckles in a way that was almost sad and adds longingly – " oh god ya...my neurons are in shock I guess..they didn't ever think they would have to process this through..in the first place.."

I bend forward and kiss her forehead again as I ask softly – " what can I do love?? please tell me?? what can I do at the moment to make you feel better??"

Khushi opens her arms out to me as she gives me a sad smile – " just hug me again..please...hold me closer..."

I do.

I do Just That Obviously.

Five – Seven Minutes later of me just holding onto her in my arms and brushing on her hair lovingly in a Silence that wasn't really silent at all for she was just venting out the rest of her low frustrated vulnerable vibe and I was just trying to sooth her with my loving vibe in the process, she says softly kissing on my shoulder – " thank you..love...for coaxing me into coming home...too..."

I kiss on her head – " feels good doesn't it Sparkle??"

Khushi nods – " it does love..it does....it feels good*infinity indeed love...,"and she pauses and adds – " but I am so glad that everyone is going to be resuming work from tomorrow as per like normally and also Reva Mom and Abhi Dad...I am going to tell them to only come by in the evenings...like after their day stuff is done..."

I brush her arm tenderly – " ofcourse Sparkle...we promised you..didnt we?? We will keep our promise for sure...,"and she whispers softly now against my heart – " love...aap..please..kal sara din yahin aajana mere pass...(please you be here with me all day tomorrow alright??), for day after you will,"and she pauses.

I know – why she Paused.

Obviously.

Intense Emotions have returned to engulf both of Us.

I pull back from holding her close and I wedge up on my elbow against the pillow and just caress her cheek lovingly sure that she could read every bit of the intense emotion in my eyes – " ofcourse Sparkle...I will be right here..by your side all day tomorrow..."

Khushi kisses my hand lovingly and gives me a heartfelt smile – " exactly what I need before my Skipper Blue returns to his pitch duties...,"and she pauses and adds giving me another comforting smile – " don't worry much about me thike? abhi toh just aise hi I got like all emotional and vulnerable..but I am sure that I will figure out a way to deal with these and frustrations eventually...and I will be okay...from day after tomorrow...I am going to start studying all day too...then everyone is there with me na...also this weekend Jess and some more of my team mates might come over to see me when they return from Chandigarh, plus Payal, Noor, Sachi Maam, Samaira will come in day after evening too...plus Ranjana aunty and Shivi will come in over the weekend too..."

Guys – Hridhaan and Vikram are going to be in Sydney for a little while more as per their earlier schedule.

I nod at her at that and lace my hand through hers tight – " yes I know Sparkle...I spoke to Hridhaan and Vikram when we landed right?Hridhaan did fill me in on Shivi and aunty's plan...too and ofcouse I am aware of the Payal, Noor, Sachi Maam and Samira's plan too...,"and I pause and I admit sincerely – " why do you think that I was so keen on you just being Home Sparkle..for I knew that it isn't just family but our close friends too will also make sure in my absence that you are doing more than just okay too..."

Khushi nods at me emotionally as she says – " Smarty fox..Mr.Skipper Blue...toh now just you don't worry about me at all thike? you just play love...just play.."

I nod at her in the acknowledgement of my promise again – " I will Sparkle...for sure..and not just on my behalf but on yours too..."

Khushi nods at me overwhelmed and we both again and now I just need to desperately make her smile on a lighter note so I add now – " and I don't know if this crossed your mind love...but it's going to be the 13th of Feb..as in it is a pity that I have to leave on Valentines Day but it isn't that day I am quite concerned about...just a few days from now on the 16th..its going to be a full Year to me meeting you for the very first time...can you imagine? A year's gone by already??"

That makes Khushi wrap her arms around my neck even more tightly as she whispers softly – " oh my god...yes...yes ..yes...yes...love...,"and she pulls back and adds now her eyes twinkling in happiness – "Arnav...it's going to be a year to that night we first met..under the trent bridge by chance and I actually misunderstood you to be a creepy crawly burglar...remember??"

I nod at her lovingly and I admit – " and only I know how I was holding onto m laughter at that point in time..Sparkle..I mean just no one had ever called me that ever before.."

Khushi narrows her eyes at me happily as she says – " oh please..thike?? you can't blame me love..I mean do I need to remind you the circumstances...?? And also you cheeky thing..you surelyw ere having the time of your life taking my case on further the minute I told you I play for India Women..as in you most surely knew that I was going to be gobsmacked the hell out of my mind the minute I would see you..."

I chuckle at that happily ofcourse and I kiss her head – " I plead guilty, your honour...I was obviously having the time of my life...indeed...."

Khushi whacks my arm playfully – " ohh I was so shaken and frazzled thike???like frazzled*infinity indeed..."

And I admit honestly – " and I was beyond just bedazzled and smitten Sparkle...bedazzled*smitten*infinity indeed...,"and I brush my hand over her hair lovingly as I add further – " but to be honest love...it doesn't feel like it's just going to be year...it feels like I'v known you for a long long time.."

Khushi caresses my cheek too as she says looking sincerely – " I know...it feels like I have known you for a long long time too love.."

And just like that we both lean in to kiss each other – intensely, emotionally and vulnerably and I whisper into her lips five minutes later – " I will miss you insane love..when I'll be gone..promise me you will take care...and promise me that you won't ever hold back your tears in front of me...cry as many times as you want to alright?? but in front of me..alright??"

Khushi clutches on my collar and she whispers back kissing the side of my lips– " uff ya..i have no plans on becoming a cry baby thike?? but thike love..whenever I will feel like crying...I promise to do so in front of you...and I will miss you too ..so so so much...,"and she pauses and adds – " I think I should say this more often even though you have prohibited me from saying these words...but thank you love..for just being You – I honestly need to say this out louder..thank you for everything..just about everything...for loving me the way you do, for understanding me the way you do...for handling me the way you do...and mostly for Just Being You..."

I pull back and I look into her eyes and I admit – " well then in that case..i think I need to say this too...thank you for just Being You too Sparkle...thank you for being the light of my Life...thank you for being My Sparkle..."

And Just as I say that to Her – Khushi's eyes light up and twinkle and she says pouting adorably– " oh my god...dear mind got it...I figured it out love...I figured it out..the perfect way to deal with my frustrations and lows....like my bulb just lit up..."

I chuckle at that adorable pout up her face as I rub my thumb on her lower lip tenderly – " ahaan? really? what idea did your bulb light up with now Sparkle??"

Khushi grins as she says – " The idea of Gratitude.Love...gratitude.. I am genuinely going to start keeping like a gratitude journal and everytime I start to feel like frustrated or low...I am going to shift my focus to recording all the things that I am indeed extremely greateful for...I mean I don't say that it will like vanish my frustrations like magic..but I think it will give me the exact conviction and belief within to just keep pulling through positively...and guess what love? even though I can't like write from my straight down position in bed much..i surely can take down audio notes na...."

I grin at that on reflex – " well tell dear mind that – that is a wonderful idea indeed...love..."

Khushi cups my face lovingly now as she caresses my cheek lovingly – " and know this love... every single day of the recordings in my audio gratitude journal...I shall thank god for blessing me with You...indeed...like just how can I ever thank my destiny enough for having me stationed in your spot by the Trent Bridge on that night of 16th Feb..I mean we would have met anyway love..because of Superbro and Anj but then now that I look back at it love...I am super glad that we met the way we did...My Stranger...just how can I not thank God everyday for You haan?? Just How??"

Godammit Her.

I kiss her – Immediately.

Very Intensely, Vulnerably and Emotionally and Deeply Too.

And I whisper into her lips about five minutes later taking a little pause – "and I am glad love..that my destiny had me walk to the Trent bridge that day too..for I wouldn't ever change a dime of a second about how we first met too love...and you know what? I had a truce with God you know Sparkle...I told him that I would never ask him for anything ever again if he just blessed me with your life being out of critical danger that day...so know this Love...I thank him each day too...for Yo..,"and before I could complete the word – YOU, Khushi closed her lips over mine for an intense, vulnerable, deep, emotional kiss yet again.

And I think – at the moment – the way we were emotionally and vulnerably kissing each other , she's totally Thanking God for Me again and I am totally Thanking God for Her again.

Or Maybe – We were just both Thanking God – For US.

Yeah.

That would be a Better way To Depict This Vulnerable Moment in between of us.

Could we ever Thank God enough for - US?

NAH.

I DON'T THINK SO.

WE COULD NEVER EVER – THANK HIM ENOUGH.

INDEED.

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

.........

TADAAAA.

Also yes – after this Chapter from here on – we shall now be taking little leaps throughout the next months of Sparkle's recovery.

Next Chapter : Guys, this week it shall be only Two Updates unlike the Usual Three in the Week. So after this one I shall be able to give only one more Update this week and I shall try to post it Up by Friday evening for sure. If Not Friday evening then Sat for Sure!

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love.

Always.

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

Khushi is at home where her family can look out for her.