CHAPTER 8 - THE 'YO-YO' WORLD CUP

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee

So here I am with the Next Update…its about…10 k plus Words Guys.

Will be Eager to know what you all think.

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

Please definetly 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.

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CHAPTER 8 – THE ‘YO-YO’ WORLD CUP

Next Day – 19th February, 2019

@Khushi & Jess’s Room – Holiday Inn, Nottingham.UK.

845 AM

Khushi’s POV

Stupid.

Dupid.

Stupid.

STUPID WHAT?

My Stupid High Heeled Shoes.

Of course.

Just Why????????

Just Why Did I even Have to Have it on Last Night???

Oh well - yes, because in my Head they felt like a Perfect Choice with my little more Formal outfit last night, for the team outing with everyone.

Ok.

So Maybe, I should now say – Stupid.

Dupid.

Stupid

Meeeee – Instead.

Why? If you must wonder??

Because after all it is the Charlie Chaplin me, who decided to take them off before getting around to chatting and talking with Skipper Blue, last night.

And Look at What Happened.

I totally ended up making the Biggest Fool Out of Myself in front off Skipper Blue, as in - like As if, the way we met didn’t already make me look like a Joker enough.

Yup.

And now – I am sure, he’s not just branded me as a Mini Charlie Chaplin in his head, but more like a full-fledged Episode Of Comedy Circus, indeed.

Like – I Can’t believe Myself Ya, everyone. I am a professional freaking athlete. Which professional athlete goes around tripping on shoes, and almost stumbling over – their Sporting Inspirations?????

Yup.

Stupid Comedy Circus’s like Me Indeed.

Ok Maybe…I shouldn’t be very harsh on myself for I most definitely was in control of my stance and posture as I was getting up, you know now that I recall the Moment.

Yup.

Right.

Its not Me – everyone.

It’s these Stupid High Heeled Shoes.

It’s their fault.

They were like totally right in the way, acting like the Speed breaker in my way which eventually made me Stumble. Yes, I think I shall blame the insanely embarrassing moment from last night, on these High Heeled shoes, indeed. I narrow my eyes at them, as I continue to scowl and reprimand the High heeled shoes in my hand - Imaginarily in my head.

Yup, you read that right everyone. I am totally lounging on my twin bed in my room right now with the pair of my Shoes(THE CULPRITS FROM LAST NIGHT) in my Hand as I am indulging in a Imaginarily Scolding Session with them right now.

Well – you all can’t blame me.

They made me trip and Stumble right in front off Skipper Blue, who was so very kind in helping me immediately and steadied me with the support of his muscular grip. I am super duper sure, he must be thinking to himself – this girl is an opening batter for India Women? Just look at how clumsy she is, tripping over a Pair of Shoes!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so sure in that moment he was probably also thinking to himself - Does she also trip clumsily while running in between the wickets??????!!!!!!!!!

If theres a Pool off Embarrassment – I want to Drown in it Now.

Like – Now.Now.

Uff.

Well.

However.

It was like so kind of him to steady me with his grip though everyone, and I think he did so immediately because, he knows I have matches to play, and that I couldn’t risk even a minor twist in the ankle or even the slightest off a muscle/ligament pull. Maybe that’s why also was so genuinely concerned as he asked me, if I was Ok, after.

I close my eyes – and the Moment flashes through my Head again.

Holy Crap.

Ok.

I shouldn’t have Rewind-ed that moment in my Head.

Why?

Because now my stomach is back to all Yo-Yo-ing – in DAZEEEEEE.

Guys, I am sure you all know very well what a Yo-YO is?????Right???

Yeah I am sure you all know that, but what I want you all to know that just the flash off the little bit of the moment after with Skipper Blue as he asked me if I was Ok, made/and makes me as nervous in the pit of my stomach as I was – while awaiting the results of my Yo-Yo Test.( Ok, a brief context everyone, a YoYo Test, is like this fitness test that all of us players have to clear, if we have to make it into the National Squad ok? Like it’s a Pre-requisite. So ofcourse now you know what I mean by that comparison right???.I mean the results of my Yo-Yo Fitness test were obviously going to be a deciding factor, if I would be eligible for joining in the National Squad No???)

And, after Skipper Blue asked me if I was Ok, and I stood all dazed , frozen in my spot because I couldn’t believe as to how clumsy I had been in front off him, like that’s how embarrassed I was, that I had frozen into a statue. And then as if that wasn’t enough, my freaking hair decided to mess their way around my face right then, and once again to my dazed shock and surprise – Skipper Blue was kind enough to help me fix them almost immediately again.(Because Frozen Statues can’t obviously Fix their Hair, everyone!!)

But Can I be like…honest to you all??

So.

When he did that – as in when he had cupped the side of my face and fixed my hair back tucking them behind my ear, and his other arm was still holding me steady, with his grip firmly around my waist -the Yo-YO in the pit of my Stomach went all bouncing around in such a fast speed as if my Stomach was on its way to competing in the YO-YO World Cup.

Ha.Ha.Ha.

Yes, Guys.

That’s exactly what Happened to Me.

Like….For Reallll.

On that Note – I think a little bit off this entire YO-YO World Cup scene in the pit of my stomach also has something to do with the fact that Skipper Blue is like so so rakishly Handsome. ( I mean guys honestly, if he wouldn’t be like a Cricketing hero and killing it on the pitches for our country na, he surely would have been the Bollywood Hero killing it up on the box office, for Real). And to be upfront, I think the Yo-Yo World Cup scene also has a little bit to do with the fact that , I have never kind off had any boy/man so up close in my personal space ever like you know with the whole – hand snuggled around my waist, one hand cupping my one cheek, and eyes all locked with mine by default due to the stumble, with a crazily magnetic Aura backing up the Moment.

So yup I guess its Safe to Conclude that – the Yo-Yo World Cup scene happened in the pit off my stomach for two reasons. One being some natural nervousness over the sudden close proximity with Skipper Blue, and second being sheer embarrassment of course. Also, I cannot believe that it took me all those seconds to get out of my Statue Mode, but thank god the second my brain defreeze-ed, I stepped away almost immediately – drowning in embarrassed over what had happened as realisation dawned on me that Skipper Blue must be totally tagging me as a – ‘ Episode off Comedy Circus which features a Clumsy Clown’ - in his Head in that moment of time. And well then, obviously the best solution to my head in that moment of time was – Lets Pretend to Delete the Embarrassing Moment.

As in – Pretend to act as if it never Happened.

And once again, Skipper Blue was his kind Yorker + friendly Gentleman self as he totally was all accommodating towards my embarrassment, which kind off then eased my nervousness too.

I was really proud of myself for coming up with that Pretend Delete Idea Actually.I mentally pat myself on the back again in a – Bravo Khushi again. Pretence, totally saved the day not just for You…I am pretty sure it also took Skipper Blue out of the awkward spot he must have felt he was in, because of his decision to act on impulse and help me during my Trip + Turn into a Statue- Spree.

Hmmmmm.

I narrow my eyes at the Shoes in my Hand again.

But dearest Shoes, since you are pretty much the Culprit that did kind of Embarrass me in front of Skipper Blue, you are totally going to get a little banishment sentence for the same ,indeed. Please Note – Culprit Shoes. Henceforth ,Thou shall not get the opportunity to be worn by my feet – for at least a fortnight, no wait lets make that A Month.

No.

No.

You better not look all Gorgeous to my Eyes right now.

I am in no mood of Entertaining your Petitions.

CASE CLOSED.

I get up from my bed now and walk over to my suitcase and dump my shoes back into the Shoe Bag, and immediately pick out my comfortable sports shoes, and start to put them on. I am already ready in my Workout Wear actually. I’v been waiting for Jess to Step out the washroom, so that we can head down for breakfast since we have training + gym time, beginning only by 10:00 Am Today which will go up til 1230 PM, and the schedule after is lunch and then the usual Nets session in between off 2- 530 PM, after which I shall be making my way to Hilton,to meet up with Akash, Anjali, Bhai and Skipper Blue.

Hmmmmmm.

On that Note, I do want to say something.

So.

To be honest guys,if we Delete that Monumental Embarrassing Moment from last night, its like the rest of conversations and talks with Skipper Blue last night were like truly amazing indeed, as that mysterious bubble of comfort continued to surround and consume me as I openly talked about my Dreams to Him and we had the conversations that we did.

How is it so easy for me to talk to him Again?????

Like for real everyone – ever since the minute I started to focus on looking at him as Mr Stranger/Friend – its started to feel so very Natural to talk to him, like literally there’s absolutely no room for any intimidation at all.

He really Does Understand me, and I get him too.

It’s So Strange through as in – never in my dreams had I even imagined knowing Skipper Blue this way and being friends with him – for Real. He’s really so grounded, kind, encouraging, motivating and friendly right?????

Like I hope you all agree with me on this fact too – that Skipper Blue + the Charlie Chaplin Me, can really be Great Friends!!!Because we do have this strange comfortable connect right? As in with everything that we have in common + the love for cricket + the situation with our siblings +the comfort and ease plus understanding as friends + the genuine respect for each other as sporting individuals too.( I mean guys….he literally wants a Copy of my Blue Books for real – still unable to digest that bit. But also I was obviously motivated and empowered a lot more, by his encouraging kind words. I also am totally going to practice the techniques I observed on him live yesterday – today in the nets surely).

I am right on that thought when my phone Beeps. I pick it up from the Charging Point, and walk back to my bed with it, and Plonk on my stomach, as I open Whatsapp.

Ok…everyone.

Its a text message from Skipper Blue.

Him : Good morning Khushi. I hope you had a good sleep and feel all rested. Are you at Breakfast?

I grin to myself as I reply.

Me : Good morning to you Skipper Blue. Well yes..I slept very well last night, and I am all rested and fresh very excited for the training+ practice schedule ahead today. I hope you slept well and are all rested too. And No I am not at breakfast yet, waiting for Jess to get ready.will be leaving for breakfast in about ten minutes I guess. What about you Skipper Blue, what are you upto? Heading for your Gym+ Swim time right now?

Him : Yes Khushi, I will be heading for Gym+ Swim in a couple of minutes too. And yes I slept well too, all fresh for another relaxing day. Time’s flying about at the speed off light, and one’s gotta make the most of the mini holiday time left..right??

I chuckle as I read that and I reply : haha…yes ofcourse Skipper Blue, its going to get super duper hectic for you once you get back…you better catch up on the relaxation as much as you can ya…so that when you get back from this Holiday you feel all rejuvenated and refreshed.Also can I say something?

Him : well to be Honest, the Hoilday’s already done me so good.I feel all refreshed and rejuvenated already Khushi. And yes please tell me..what do you want to say?

I grin as I read that. Obviously ya…Skipper Blue has such a hectic schedule chalked up ahead for himself like literally all the time, I am sure that these couple of days off with his siblings have done him good.Ok lets reply.

Me : ok…so I want you to know that You have a Long Life Skipper Blue.

I get a reply almost instantly.

Him : As in?

I chuckle as I explain.

Me : ohhh Skipper Blue..you know as in how they say if you are thinking of someone and they get in touch with you right then…then it means that they have a long life...

Him : okk Khushi…is that like your cryptic way of telling me that you were thinking off me the minute I messaged you?

I chuckle as I read that.

Me : yes Skipper Blue.

Him : I dare you for your love of 22 Yards..tell me what were you thinking.

I grin as I admit honestly : well so as you just texted…the last thought that was in my head was that I am yet to digest the fact that you want a photocopy of my Blue Books of Cricketing Observations for real , and also how you are like the Kindest Yorker ya… as in I am obviously motivated and empowered a lot more, by your encouraging kind words, last night. And then I was thinking, I also am totally going to practice the techniques I observed on you live yesterday – today in the nets surely, and bang right then is when your Text Comes.

Him : kindest Yorker? Haha. that still cracks me up, and I already was honest in telling you that your notes are amazing, so obviously I want a copy.and let me know if the techniques work out in net practice time ok??

Me : Yes, surely Skipper Blue.You all are planning to watch a Movie na today?? Anjali and bhai both texted me about the same.

Him : yes Khushi.we are going for a Noon show and then lunch, post which everyone wants to indulge in some Shopping time.

Me : which is great SB. you have a great time with everyone. I am sure its going to be a Good Day. Bhai wants to send some gifts for Mom and Dad too, and I am going to be leaving Nottingham in a couple of days too right..so yeah…

Him : I am sorry Khushi.

Me : huh??SB…why are you saying sorry?

Him : well because I am leaving on 21st early morning so that we can make it to Heathrow well in time for our flight back to Delhi, but that’s also the day you have your first T20 match. I do want to see you play Live. I wish I could have stayed back to watch you Play.

Wait.Whatttt????

Guys.

Just what did Skipper Blue Text me??

He wants to see me Play Live?

Oh wait.

Holy Crap.

Why?

Coz.

I just felt the return of the Yo-Yo in the pit of my stomach everyone.

I take a deep breathe as a thought hits me which eases the Yo -Yo instantly. Skipper Blue means that he wants to see our entire team – play the first T20 Live.

Yup.

That’s what he means.

Whats was up with that Yo-Yo eruption in the pit off my stomach??

Stupid. Freaking. High Heeled Shoes.

I think I should banish them into the Lonely Shoe Box for two Whole Months.

One months to Less a Banishment for them.I mean this is totally all because off that Stumble Fumble moment last night.

I quickly text : Skipper Blue…that’s so very kind off you to even say that ya.Please don’t be sorry at all…I mean I know you have to reach back on schedule and report back to the pitch duties. You saying that you wish to watch us play Live, only means a lot Ya.

I grin to myself.

Him : are you grinning just now?

Me : holy hell Skipper Blue.How do you know??

Him : haha…I guessed it.Gut intuition, just like I am taking a guess that your eyes are all widened in a surprise right now.

I chuckle as I reply : well you are right about that too,SB. You have a killer gut instinct then.

Him : oh I guess, I do have to agree with you on that.The Gut Instinct’s been good for me off late…especially quite a bit.

Me : reallyyyy????? Like you mean in the games in the Aus/NZ tour??

And just as I tap send.

I hear the Music blast from the washroom get off now, which means that Jess is about to come out.And if she sees me all texting again – she’ll get all inquisitive and probe – ‘oh are you on Chat with Mr Stranger again.’

Before Skipper Blue’s reply comes I quickly text him.

Me : I gotta go now Skipper Blue.Jess should be out in a couple of minutes, and if she sees me busy on text again, she’ll get all inquisitive if I am on chat with Mr Stranger again.

Him : haha…ok so she does know about Mr Stranger?

Me : haha.Well she’s my best friend Skipper Blue. I did give her a little brief that I had this crazy strange encounter with Mr Stranger, who is now like my friend, and that we talk a lot over Cricket and we do have a lot in common otherwise too.She just doesn’t know Mr Stranger is You. Haha.(which I told you I am going to keep a secret). She’s anyway in half shock at knowing that Anjali turned out to be Anjali Singh Raizada. You know like bhai and Jess also have this brother sister kind of equation ok? And Jess says, I will only meet Anjali, after ASR leaves the city. On that note, did you keep a code word for me in you phone too SB? you know like I have kept Mr Stranger, for you.

Him : yes I did Keep a Code Word for you Khushi.

I grin.

Me : reallyyy?? What is it? Please tell me????

Him : are you sure you want to Know?

Me : oh yes…Skipper Blue.Tell me fast…see Jess will come then I will have to go for breakfast. I am also very hungry…ya…on that note.

Him : well the code word I have kept for you khushi, in my phone is C.22.

I grin as I read that and I reply : okkk that’s an amazing code you came up with SB. you mean C for Cricket and 22 because well you know I love my 22 yards + its my jersey no too + my bday as well.Isnt it??????? Tell me my guess is right no???

My phone beeps in 30 seconds.

Him : hmmm..what shall I say to that? maybe perhaps?

Me : oh cmon SB. I know you are just taking my case again ya…im sure that’s what it is.Isnt it???

Him : Yes Khushi…that’s exactly what it is.

I chuckle as I pat myself on the back playfully.

Me : and I just patted myself on my back for getting that Guess right.SB.Okkk..Jess coming out now…bbye for Real now.

Him : bbye for Real, Khushi.

I am grinning to myself as I keep my phone aside now and get up right as Jess steps out the washroom and shoots me a grin and starts to put on her sports shoes as she sits on her twin bed next to me and she asks – “ and that grin on your face tells me that you were chatting with Mr Stranger again, werent you Khushi???”

I chuckle as I admit sitting next to her and I lace my hand around her shoulder – “ well yes…I was…”

Jess nods and her eyes narrow as she asks – “ and will you be meeting him tonight as well? By the trent bridge??”

I nod – “ yes that’s the plan Jess…its so easy to talk to him you know.i do truly believe that we can be great friends…”

Jess smiles – “ and I obviously trust your judgement Khushi, but as your best friend, I would like to remind you that you are way too naïve when it comes to boys…and here you are befriending a total stranger…”

I admit honestly – “ well you have nothing to worry about at all Jess, and that’s because this Mr Stranger is trustworthy…and we can be great friends…we do have a lot in common for real…ok??

Jess rolls her eyes – “ yess…the highlight of that being the love for cricket..perhaps?”

Haha. Guys – I told Jess that Mr Stranger plays cricket too,for Nottingham County Cricket Club.(As in the Domestic team off Nottingham)

I admit honestly – “ well that’s there…but it isn’t just that ok Jess…he understands me, and I get him too…”

Jess narrows her eyes at me – “ I get you Khushi and I trust your instinct, but you know what I think this Mr Stranger doesn’t only have friendship on his mind?? I mean…you guys just met but are like on text, chatting all the time…somethings surely starting to brew up in there.”

I burst into Giggles.

Immedaitely.

Only If Jess knew – who the Mr.Stranger in context really is, she would know that he could only always have friendship on his Mind for real – as I am surely the Friend who also happens to be one of the biggest fans of his Game + the fact that I am also the little sister of the man his sister Loves.

Jess asks – “ why are you laughing??

I pause on my giggles as I admit thinking of how to cryptically put this out to her – “ ok…so…let me just say that I am pretty sure that Mr Stranger only has friendship on his mind Jess, because I am a little bit aware of the women he dated in the past, as in he talked about it briefly…and he is surely interested in being with gorgeous glamorous women that way…as in like dating and stuff…” – you know Women that are like Gorgeous glamorous Bollywood actresses, I add to myself silently with a chuckle. I can’t believe Jess thinks somethings starting to brew up only because we’v been Chatting.

Haha.

Jess states with a wink – “ well you are gorgeous too Khushi…”

I chuckle – “ thanks Jess…but you know what I mean…I am like this Tomboy within anyway, and I also told you I am like literally seven years younger to him ok…so I am pretty much sure that to him…im like just his little friend…you gotta chill about this Jess…we are friends…well to be honest it is kind off nice to talk to someone who genuinely respects my choice to play cricket professionally you know…or else you know how it has been with the boys/men wev come across…”

Jess chuckles – “ oh yes…ofcourse…the sarcasm, the dripping condescending doubt in the voice etc etc…remember the one time we literally had a fight with this one guy as we gave it back to him, the minute he said , oh wait…does India have a womens cricket team too?? I didn’t even know that…”

I chuckle to that as I wink at her – “ ohhh…we totally scared him away with the way we gave him the peice of our mind didn’t we??”

Jess chuckles – “ oh yes we did…”,and she hugs me – “ ok fine, I wont worry much about Mr Stranger then…ohkkk…lets go to breakfast now….im super hungry…”

I nod at her happily and we get up and make our way out the room now and she asks, with a playful wink as we are walking to the elevator – “ ok khushi but tell me something atleast..is this Mr Stranger handsome??”

I chuckle as I admit honestly – “ oh yes…I do have to give that to him Jess…he surely is very Handsome..indeed…”

And just as Jess is about to say something to me, we spot Sheena Di, Harpreet di, Deepti and a couple more of our team mates who have the rooms on the same floor as our heading towards the elevator too, and we greet them all Happily, and then we all get consumed in catching up and discussing about the intense training the coaches have lined up for us today – as we make our way down to Breakfast.

………………………….

5 : 30 PM @ The Trent Bridge Cricket Stadium

Khushi’s POV Continues

I grin to myself as I take my helmet out and tuck it along under my arm and rotate my bat in my hand happily, as I walk across to thank the net Bowler to thank her for her wonderful time, as she finished up bowling to me in the nets.( So just a brief context everyone, on tours, as in during net practice and stuff, sometimes we ask the local team for help to help arrange for net bowlers for us all during our practice sessions, who rotate along with our team bowlers as we practice, and the England team was very helpful in arranging the same for us this time around, and since we were in Nottingham, most of the net bowlers played for the Nottingham County club too. And today all of us were practising really hard etc, because we didn’t have the nets session in schedule tomorrow, since the ground staff is going to get all set to prep up the ground and the pitch for the match day after, the ground will be unavailable to avail for practice)

I shake Liz’s hand( who had been bowling to me in the nets for the last two days) and I state happily – “ and thank you so very much Liz…I enjoyed the practice session with you very much today as well…indeed…”

Liz shakes my hand as well, and she states – “ and I think you are brilliant with the bat Khushi..you were hitting out the shots that would have gone for beautiful drives all over the ground…”

My Insides Dance Guysss.

Why?

Haha.

Because I think – I got the technique for the Cover Drive on point today – like for Reall.

I just cant wait to text Skipper Blue, about the same.

I pat her arm in glee as I state – “ which makes me very happy indeed…but you almost had me with lbw’s a couple of time in the nets too Liz…your outswinger delivery, is killer kickass…”

We share a warm laugh now, and I see the rest of my teammates, finishing up on their practice time as well, and Liz greets me once more, before she huddles off to catch up with her fellow players from the county club.

Jess grins as she’s walking up to me with Sheena di and I grin at Sheena di and Jess as I say – “ guys…guess what…I think I got the cover drive today….”

Sheena di grins as she pats my shoulder – “ that’s amazing partner…lets see you fire some in the match day after then??”

I smile at her happily – “ I will try my best to Sheena Di…”.And we punch our fists together. I do the same with Jess now too as I ask – “ how was the session Jess??”

Jess grins – “ amazing Khushi..i think I do understand why the board keeps emphasizing on the importance of net practices…”

Sheena di smiles – “ yes ofcourse girls…but you know what I think we should ask Mira di, Harpreet to talk to the officials to help arrange for some friendly matches with local domestic teams too the next time we are touring abroad, I think it will help us adapt to local conditions better…and more quickly…”

Jess and me nod in agreement to her – “ oh yes di..we think you are right…”

Oh on that Note – everyone, we are still all in our sporting gear,all padded up.

I see Sheena di look around the ground as she states grinning– “ Mira di and Harpreet not back to the ground yet…they walked indoors about an hour or so ago right…after finish up on their practise and observing on us..”

We Nod as we look around the ground.

Jess says – “ and I do not spot Jharna di as well…rest of the girls are finishing up too now…here they come…”

We spot the rest of our squad now walking up to us now – Tanu,Vedika, Harleen, Manvi, Ekta, Priya, Deepti and we all start chatting up over how each of our respective net sessions were, and after five minutes Deepti asks Sheena di - “ where’s Mira di, Harpreet and Jharna di?? Usually they always are right here when we finish up with the sessions, ready to discuss how it all went, before we head back….”

And right then we hear Harpreet Di’s voice from behind us all – “ well here I am girls, and Mira di and Jharna di will be here soon…so how did it go guys?? All set to fire up in the first t20 game???? We win the first game and the pressures right on England…”. Harpreet Di captains the T20 side. I Love her, as you all know.

Jess grins along with Tanu and Deepti and they all high five Harpreet di one by one – “ high five to that…we aim to win…the practise was good…”

Sheena di laces her hand around my shoulder as she grins to Harpreet di – “ and guess what everyone, my partner…our little hit girl finally got the cover drive right today???”

Harpreet di beams at me happily as she pats my shoulder – “ which is great Khushi…I know you’v been practising that in the nets for ages now…”

I grin at her – “ thank you Harpreet di..”, and I look at Sheena di as I say – “ and you are very kind as always…”

She ruffles my hair happily and winks at me.

Harpreet di starts to ask everyone else, one by one as to how it all went for them, and the shot selections each one of us was aiming on working on today etc and shes also discussing how her session was and a couple of minutes later, once we are all done talking she grins and she says to us all – “ ok girls…so we have a surprise for you all…the reason why iv been gone of the ground for an hour, and Mira and Jharna are still in , along with our main coaches….”

I shoot her a puzzled look along with everyone around and Harpreet Di looks at Sheena di and she states – “ and I think for most of you who have come into the national squad after the world cup 2018, I think its going to be a double surprise indeed…well to be honest none of us were expecting this surprise visit, but we are so very glad about it, indeed..”

Sheena di rolls her eyes at Harpreet di – “ there you go talking about in riddles again…jump to the point Happy..”.Sheena di calls Harpreet di – Happy sometimes.

I hear everyone ask Harpreet about what she means, and I look st Jess shrugging my shoulders cluelessly and she gestures the same back to me and right then Harpreet di says – “ ok listen up girls…Mira , Jharna di, coaches etc, are just about a couple of minutes away from walking to the ground with a fellow cricketer, whom most of us look upto for the brilliant sportsman and captain that he is..the captain of our men in blue team…Captain ASR”

MY INSIDES FREEZE.

WAIT.

WHAT??????????????????????????????????????????????

DID HARPREET DI JUST SAY – THAT MIRA DI, JHARNA DI, AND OUR COACHES ETC ARE JUST A COUPLE OF MINUTES AWAY FROM WALKING TO THE GROUND WITH SKIPPER BLUE???????????

OH MY GOD.

I AM A FROZEN STATUE INWARDLY AGAIN.

I hear Sheena di ask – “ really?? ASR is here??”

Harpreet di grins – “ yes..he is Sheena, as in he was in Nottingham for some personal visit, and he got in touch with Mira di to congratulate her for the ODI win the other day and then she obviously told him that we are going to be here since the first T20 is here as well, so he texted her a while ago to check with her if he could come in for a chat, he also wanted to congratulate us all for the ODI win in person…and not only this everyone, he’s also been observing on each of you in the nets from afar with us all…and he is very impressed by each of your games…and well…he’s actually been here with us for about last two hours now…chatting up with our coaches first and then Mira di went to greet him first after her net session and she discreetly asked me and Jharna di to join her in after our session…..”

CORRECTION NEEDED.

MY INSIDES HAVE TRANSFERRED INTO A ROCK STATUE – THAT CAN SURELY BE DATED BACK TO THE TIMES OFF INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION PERHAPS?

Did you all hear what Harpreet di just said???????

Skipper Blue is Here???????????

He’s freaking been here for the last two hours now?????

He’s also observed on our Net sessions with everyone from Afar???????????

I feel my insides go on a wreck nervous mode, as I continue to stand in a dazed shock as I hear everyone now happily state how excited they were on the thought of a little meet and greet with ASR and I shoot Jess a nervous look and I gesture her to come stand next to my side now and she does, and the minute she comes in next to me , I just shoot everyone polite smiles as I take her aside and she asks with her eyes widened – “ Khushi did you have any clue about this?? As in did Anjali text you or something???”

I admit nervously – “no Jess…I literally had no clue at all…but yes…I think this is about him wanting to congratulate the whole team…on the ODI series win…I did tell you the other day remember that bhai +Anjali was going on and on about how wonderful the game was the other day…”

Jess nods as she states – “ god…I am so freaking nervous….Khushi…he wont show any recognition about knowing you because of the equation with Rahul+ anjali..right?? as in I don’t want everyones attention on the squad to shift to that, from your game, not at this point…”

I gulp down my nervousness as I say honestly – “ no no..he wont…as in remember I told you I talked about this to them already and he was very kind and polite about it?? As in he understood…”

Jess nods – “ ok then, lets just hope he keeps the pretend on…”

I nod at her nervously.

And right then as I look up I spot Skipper Blue, walking alongside Mira Di, to the turf and all of a sudden I feel a little bit of intimidation take over naturally as I take in the focused Cricketing Professional Aura that he had around him as he walked and chatted along with Mira Di – towards us all.

Harpreet Di asks us all to line up now and i see everyone fall into their line up positions and I take my spot at the right end nervously. Jess is next to me.The two of us stood right in the end , because we are relatively newer into the squad than everyone else.

PLEASE NOTE – I AM BACK TO BEING THE STATUE CARVED OUT OF ROCKS WHICH DATES BACK TO THE INDUS VALLEY CIVILIZATION.

OR WAIT.

MAKE THAT THE HARRAPA VALLEY CIVILIAZATION.

Whichever of the one was Older.

Or wait.

Shall I just say – the Stone Age.Perhaps?

I am still on that thought as I take a deep breathe because they’v all reached us and just as I take in the sight of Skipper Blue in front of me along with Mira di - I find my head Cursing my Stupid Shoes, even more for the embarrassing moment from last Night as the moment flashes through my head on it s own accord along with the inauguration ceremony of the Yo-Yo World Cup in the pit of my Stomach again. Or wait – Its not just My Stomach. My intestines are knotting up and Yo-Yo- ing along with my stomach too.

Skipper Blue looks at us all grinning and just as he looks at me briefly, and our eyes lock for just a second, I see his eyes tell me in that fraction of just a second that I had nothing to worry about at all. He was most surely going to keep on the Pretend Bit.

I take in a sigh of relief now as I blink my eye in acknowledgement of his gesture thanking him and then shift my focus to Mira di as she says to us all – “ ok everyone….look who is here to see us today….Captain ASR…it’s a coincidence that he is here in Nottingham right now everyone and it was so very kind off time to take out some time from his schedule and come meet us all…we’v been chatting up..we as in me, Harpreet, jharna..and our coaches , and as yiou can see Jharna nad the coaches aren’t here…yet…they got caught up in some discussions over Certain things ASR was suggesting to us…and they will be here in a while now, and well…. he’s also observed you all in the nets today,as Harpreet would have told you…since I asked her to come give you all a heads up, so that some one of you don’t faint in shock…”,she finishes with a soft chuckle and all of us laugh and Mira di looks at ASR as she states grinning – “ well ASR…a lot of my girls on the squad are a big fan of your game…what can I say…”

Skipper Blue chuckles as he says – “ thank you so much Mira…”,and he looks at us all and he states – “ and it likewise..please know I am a big fan off your Captains game too…and infact off not just her…but a lot off you too on the team…iv met a couple of you before from the meet and greet after the WC 2018…and I conveyed the very same to each of you I met then…”

I hear Sheena di say – “ yes ofcourse ASR…we remember…youv always been so kind and encouraging indeed…”

Harpreet di’s voice falls in our ears – “ you and Captain Dev lifted up our low spirits after the loss in the final, ASR…how can we forget…”

I hear a couple of older players from the WC squad join in Sheena di and Harpreet di and express gratitude about the same to him, once they are done with all of that Skipper Blue states with a friendly grin – “ well thank you…and im happy to do the best I can to encourage you all, and that’s why I thought that now that I happen to be in Nottingham,I must stop by today and meet you all and congratulate you all on the amazing ODI series win in person..and wish you all the very best for the T20 series…you’v done us Proud everyone, you’v all done India proud with that win, and also with the ODI series win with NZ a month ago…I was just telling your Captain that….and I am sure if you keep the rhythym and passion going…the t20 series will go well too…but you know what everyone..in my journey as the cricketer…I obviously know that sometimes one can think that maybe its all really about the Win, that it’s just the winning that matters…but I’v learnt that there are greater lessons in defeat…so either ways…whether you win or loose the T20 series…id like each of you to look at the games as a learning opportunity to evolve as international cricketers nonetheless…”,and he continues to be encouraging and motivating in his words to us all as a unit, which are surely empowering each one of us.

SEE – EVERYONE.

NOW YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN WHEN I SAY HE IS SUCH A KIND YORKER.

Once he is done with his encouraging words, Mira di + Harpreet Di ,start to introduce him to everyone of us in the line one by one, highlight each of our strengths to him and I can hear him congratulate and motivate everyone in person too.

Well Guys.

Can I be Honest to you right now.

I am having difficulty in putting him the Frame off Mr Stranger right now. I mean why does it feel like – that it is difficult to gulp down the fact that he is Mr Stranger too…like yes we have so much in common but yet – its like he is Captain of the Indian Cricket Team afterall.

The embarrassing Moment from last night flashes through my head again.

Holy Hell.

The Yo – Yo World Cup resumes its Operations.

Did my Head just have to Choose this Exact Moment to flash that Memory through my Head.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh god NO!!!!!!!!!!!!

A couple of minutes later,I take deep steady breathes inwardly now as I see Skipper Blue + everyone near Jess now and Mira di says happily – “ and this is Jessica, she’s one of our strongest in the middle order along with the rest of the girls, in both T20 and ODI, infact with her addition into the team, our middle orders gotten stronger, shes just beena little over six months into the squad now and has been playing beautifully…”

I see Jess beam at Mira di happily for the introduction and Skipper Blue offers his hand out for a shake to Jess - “ very nice to meet you Jess, congratulations on making it to the National squad, I wish you all the very best for the games ahead…”

Jess shakes his hand happily and she states – “ thank you so much ASR, its an honour to meet you, thank you for your encouraging words…”

Oh guys.

Holy Crap.

I am next.

I take a deep breathe.

Mira di grins at me now as she states – “ and this little one…she’s the youngest in our squad at the moment…that’s why I called her the little one fondly…she joint in the squad along with Jess, and she opens along side Sheena in both ODI + T20…you remember I talked about it to you and Rohan once…at the BCCI…the one who hits amazing sixes?? Shes the little hit girl…I was referring too…her name is Khushi otherwise…”

I gulp down my nervousness.

I have to thank Skipper Blue.

He is acing the Pretend Mode, brilliantly as he asks, looking at Mira di – “ oh really? Is she the little hit girl you were referring too??”

Mira di nods.

Harpreet di who is beside her states happily to Skipper Blue – “ she’s also been practising on drives in the nets for a while, she always keeps saying to me – Harpreet di, need to get my cover drive right…iv been observing on ASRs cover drives a lot lately,and just like a lot of us on the team…she’s a big fan of your game as well ASR..”

They all chuckle.

Why?

Harpreet Di.

Why yaaaa?????

Uff – I cant believe you mentioned the Cover drive right now

Skipper Blue looks at me now as he offers his hand out for a shake – “ very nice to meet you Khushi…congratulations on making it to the national squad…and If I am not wrong, I think that’s what I observed that you were practicing out in the nets a while ago…the drives…especially the technique with the cover drive…”

HOLY CRAP.

I CAN’T BELIEVE HE JUST SAID THAT OUT LOUD IN FRONT OF EVERYONE.

This just turned out to be very amusing – everyone.

He’s literally the Stand Up Comedian right now. I am sure he is enjoying this to the Core.

I say nervously – “ yes ASR…that’s what I was practising…”

Harpreet di chips in from behind – “ and sheena tells me she’s got right this time finally…”

Mira di grins – “ yes indeed…we observed on that didn’t we ASR…”

Wait .what? He observed on my Cover Drives technique with Mira Di??

Skipper Blue grins – “ yes indeed Mira…”,and he looks at me – “ the wrist work was on point with the cover drive indeed Khushi…kudos to you…I hope you do fire some in the T20 game…”

Guys.

Just Look at Him Ya.

I nod nervously – “ thank you so much ASR…”

He nods at me again and Mira di says – “ ok girls…now that we are done with the intro’s…lets get going…all of you get freshened up and then we head back to the hotel…the grounds closing soon…”

Our coaches + Jharna di are now walking up to us all too. Guys on that note , right now we are like an all female squad completely – like from the players, to our coaches, our support Staff. We are all a proud Women in Blue, Unit.

We all nod at Mira di, and I follow the rest of my Team Mates Out in a Line, in silence as Mira di + Harpreet Di + Jharna Di + all our Coaches return to chatting up with Skipper Blue in a circle now.

Meanwhile as we all make our way back, Everyones talking about how amazing the little meet and greet with ASR went – amongst themselves.

Jess murmurs to me in a whisper – “ Khushi..he aced the pretend…you better thank him politely for this one when you see him tonight with everyone…”

I nod at her in a dazed silence as I admit – “ yes yes…I will..Jess..ofcourse…”

Jess – “ hes quite kool you know…polite gentleman as you called him…”,and I admit – “ oh yes…that he is….indeed…”

I hear Jess whisper to me in a sigh – “ just why did he and Pia chopra have to break up ya…they truly were like this match made in heaven indeed…I still ship them Khushi..hopefully they reconcile soon…”

I nod at her in a dazed silence as I take in everything that had Just Happened.

Guys.

WHAT JUST FREAKING HAPPENED????????

Its going to take me a While to process it all through my Head – Again.

For Real.

……………………………………..

A While Later

615 PM – Back in the Hotel

Khushi + Jess’s Room

Khushi’s POV Continues

Jess and me enter our room now, and I am still in a Dazed Shock inwardly everyone, as I am working on Digesting it all – Still.

Jess looks at me as she grins – “ khushi…I know you need to get ready to make it to meet everyone by 7…you wont mind if I just hurry up and freshen up first? Ill just take fifteen minutes??ok??”

I nod at her as I say – “ ofcourse Jess go on..in…”

Jess winks at me happily and I see her take her change stuff in quickly into shower and just as she closes the bathroom door, her Usual Music blasts through into my ears.

I chuckle to myself.

I love Jess Ya everyone…like so very much.Kind off feeling a little bit guilty about hiding the identity of Mr Stranger from her, like for real.

But I know she will Freak Out like Insanely. I think I will tell her in some more time down the Line.

Wait.

Wait.

On that Note.

Its not like Skipper Blue is going to have any time to be in touch with me on text/chatting and stuff once he leaves from here anyway. As in, right now he is on a Holiday so yea…hes obviously going to get consumed with all the hectic schedule and routine as he goes back. He most definitely will not have the time to think about being in touch or something right???

I am right on that Thought, when my Phone Vibrates in my track pockets.

I pick it out instantly as I sit on the Chair against the window to our Room.

Jeez.

Guys.

Its Skipper Blue.

How in the hell did he just message me again in the same moment as I was thinking off Him?????????????????

I read his text.

Him : Khushi…you ok???

I take a deep breathe as I reply.

Me : !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Him : Khushi…you most definitely need to explain what those Exclamation marks mean. I mean I couldn’t decipher them at all…they were exactly like your pull shots flying above my head again…little hit girl.

I chuckle on reflex as I read that and I reply.

Me : what do you expect Skipper Blue????????? I am obviously going to send you a line of exclamation marks when my insides are still shocked and dazed and statued into a Stone.And mind you…this stone dates back to the Indus valley/ Harrapa Civilizations, which ever is older indeed. Or No…cross that. Lets make it’s the Stone Age. I mean….cmon….you came to our Nets Session…SKIpper Blueeeeeeee!!!!!!!

I tap send.

Him : please know I have cracked into splits of laughter over the former Statues into Stine bit you just wrote Khushi.God…you really crack me up…well I obviously could see that you were in this shocked daze when you were walking out with everyone..thats why I messaged you right now…to know if you are ok? I came to the nets session for two reasons Khushi.

Two reasons? What two reasons??

Me : really??two reasons?? I can guess one.

Him : really?can you? go ahead and tell me please.

I reply honestly.

Me : I think you surely wanted to chat up with Mira Di + Harpreet Di + Coaches about what discussions they’v probably had with the BCCI officials about the fixtures issue, perhaps???

Him : yes Khushi…that was surely one reason.I wanted to talk to them about that + a lot of other stuff…and our discussions went good indeed. Can you guess the second reason Khushi??? I dare you for the love of your 22 yards…guess.

Me : Uff ya…Skipper Blue..why do you have to dare me for my love of 22 yards ya.

Him : cmon then..take a guess.

Me : ohkk I am thinking…I mean let me think….Skipper Blue.

Two minutes later my phone beeps.

Him : ?????????

Me : I am still thinking ya…oh yes…wait…you wanted to congratulate us all in person ofcourseeeee!!!!!!

Him : well that’s kind off like the part of the first reason Khushi, not the second one. Take another guess shot.

Me : ufff yaaaaa Skipper Blue…I cant guess ok…pleaseeee..im not good at this Guessing Stuff.

Him : really? Wheres your gut intuition gone??

Me : its all statued into a rock from the Stone Age..remember? all thanks to someone who decided to shock + surprise the daylights out of my Head. Can I say something though?

Him : haha to the former bit. Yes please say whats on your mind Khushi.

I type honestly : well, while I saw you walking on the pitch standing besides Mira di…I mean..it was very difficult for me to put you into the Mr.Stranger frame for Real..Skipper Blue.

Him : whatttt?????and why is that??? it’s the same me.

I admit honestly.

Me : I know it’s the same You..but…

Him : did I intimidate you in anyway again? Khushi please tell me if I did.. it wasn’t my intention too..truly.

I admit honestly.

Me : well to be honest, it was a little intimidating but it wasn’t You that was…it was the Situation perhaps…remember how I told you I always thought ill meet you for the first time with my whole squad next to me on the cricket ground in a professional setting…and here..while that was happeneing…there was just so much going on in my head you know…i couldn’t believe that we connect the way we do as friends now + how we have so many things in common.

Him : why couldn’t you believe it?? Its True…though…everybit off it is true.

Me : I know it is….but…

Him : but what Khushi?? Ok i will tell you the second reason as to why I came to the nets today. I wanted to see you play live..remmeber I texted you about the same this morning. And because I cant be here until the live match..i thought of coming to the nets. Any guesses as to why I wanted to see you play in the nets today khushi???????????

WAIT.

WHAT.

The Yo – YO World Cup Scene in the pit of my Stomach resumes its Operations.

Did he just text me that??????????

He came to the Nets to see me Play Live????????????????????????????????

Why???????????

I rake my Brains for an answer.

And just as I get an answer, I instruct the Yo- Yo in the pit off my stomach to realx scolding it for resuming operation fro no reason.

I decide to reply honestly.

Me : yes I can guess why Skipper Blue…haha…you wanted to see for real if I am a good learner or not…as in you helped me on with the technique of the cover drive yesterday no??????? and you wanted to see if I got the hang on it…for real?? To be honest to you when I finished up with my net practice no…I couldn’t wait to text you that I think I got the hang on the Cover drive for real Skipper Blue…and I can’t believe that you saw it for yourself too.

I wait for his reply.

It comes after 45 seconds.

Him : reallyyy?? Is that what you think it was about???

Ok.

Yo – Yo – On Again.

What am I to make off that text from him??

Ohh Crap Ya.

He’s just planning to take my Case Again.

Me : Skipper Blue…ofcourse I know that was what it was about ya….and with that last message you were just planning to take my case again…weren’t you????? I think you really like to pull my leg…indeed…

Him : very funny Khushi…ok tell me…are you ready yet? I am reaching the room.Akash + Rahul + Anjali..are already there.

Me : well i will be ready soon.Jess is just finishing up on freshning up…ohh see shes coming out now…ok bbye Skipper Blue for now..see you in a bit…

Him : Ok..see you soon Khushi.Come Soon.Ok?

Ok Guys – reading on that Come Soon triggered the Yo – Yo again.

Whats wrong with all this Yo _ Yo ing????

I reply : ok skipper Blue…I will come soon.BBye for real now.

Him : Bbye for real Khushi.

I quickly close up my phone now as I start to pick up my pink hoodie and denims out off my suitcase, and Jess steps out as she says – “ ok ..cmon then Khushi…you please freshen up now and get going everyone will be waiting for you…im just going to chill with Harpreet di and Sheena di on PS after dinner with everyone as usual…”

I pick up my change to get ready into , in my hands now as I say to her happily – “ ohkkk Jess you have a good time with everyone…ok? ill just get ready quick now…” and just as I am closing up my suitcase, my eyes fall on my Culprit Shoes from last Night.

I walk to the washroom now – sending out another Imaginarily Scolding their Way.

Stupid.

Dupid.

Stupid.

STUPID SHOES.

THOU ARE SENTENCED INTO BANISHMENT FOR A GOOD THREE MONTHS NOW..

Yup.

A Good Three Months Indeed.

……………………..

TADAAAAA!!!!!

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

I definetly wanted to write this out completely from our Clueless Cinderella’s perspective.Haha. For she truly has no clue that she’s caught Skipper Blue’s interest – indeed.

Next Update : will try to give an Update Tomorrow Night. About two more updates of this, before I switch to giving 3-4 back to back Updates of Chaotic Wires 2.0.

Thanks guys for all the Love and Support.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

………………………

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