CHAPTER 9 – LET'S TUNE INTO THE ‘GENRE' of DREAMS

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 9 – LET'S TUNE INTO THE ‘GENRE' of DREAMS

SAME DAY – 19TH FEB,2019

1030 PM @ THE TRENT BRIDGE SPOT

ARNAV’S POV

Cluelessly – Adorable.

Cluelessly – Captivating.

Cluelessly – Delightful.

Cluelessly – Pleasing.

Cluelessly – Appealing.

Cluelessly – Charming.

Cluelessly – Endearing.

Cluelessly – Enchanting.

Cluelessly – Alluring.

Cluelessly – Fascinating.

Cluelessly – Irresistible

Yup.

All of the Above is Exactly what she Is.

Who She?

Do I have to State?

I think it’s Pretty Obvious.

But lets state it Anyway.

Who She?

Khushi – Of course.

And well guys..honestly - I could have gone on with that List, but I think my heads kind off run out on the adjectives right Now.

HA.HA.HA.

I know – it’s Amusing.

But I can’t help it everyone.

I mean as much as her Cluelessness is like a continuous Over's of Yorker’s in my face, its also something that’s kind off tip-toeing its way into my head, bit by bit, on its own accord.

Its kinda growing on me.

Why?

Because its so Genuinely Innocent and Earnestly Sincere and Fresh. This isnt about Her..trying to be Clueless on Purpose as a way of being Coy about it all. This is about the fact that She genuinely hasn’t been able to comprehend the possibility in that little fascinating head of her’s – that I am kind off interested in her in a lot of other ways as well. Other Ways – that aren’t limited to being just “Great Friends.”

I think I am right to Presume in my head right now that Ms.Clueless Cinderella thinks that – I am in touch with her because of just three reasons. One – being our common love for Cricket + me knowing the fact that she’s looked up to me as one of her Inspirations in terms of my game , and I obviously want to encourage her and empower her as a fellow sportsperson. Two - being the fact that obviously we click naturally as friends, because of the array of things we have in Common. Three – being the fact that she is also Rahul’s little sister.

God.

I am really going to have to take this slow and steady, and eventually get around to Spelling things Out to her, like word by word, or maybe letter by letter, as we go on from here. Or wait everyone, I also think that Khushi thinks that I am going to have no time whatsoever to be in touch with her, once I leave here from Nottingham.

Ha.

Only if she knew.

Only if she knew – that the second reason as to why I went to the Nets session earlier on in the afternoon was actually because I couldn’t wait to get a glimpse off her + the fact that I really wanted to see her Play and practice live in front off my eyes all dressed up in cricketing gear, and because I couldn’t be here until the live match, the next best opportunity that I wanted to grab within my reach was to go to the Nets Session. And guys – cmon I am sure that you all know I most definitely didn’t just want to see Khushi play live to see if she was able to get the hang on the Cover Drive or not. I mean That’s what she thinks.

Not You all right?

You all obviously know – Why?

And well to be honest – the minute I observed her profile from afar with Mira + coaches + jharna as she practiced with so much focus and determination, and then eventually got the technique right - I kind off felt really proud of her indeed.

So basically all through out the afternoon during my visit to the Nets Session, I was all of Five things. One – I was grateful for the conversation that I had with Khushi the previous night, as it enlightened me with certain facts that I wanted to immediately talk out with the Captains – Mira + Harpreet + Coaches, and once we had the discussions that we did, I had a clearer background into the future development plans, I was able to openly talk to them and tell them that they must not hesitate to ask me/or our entire men in blue unit for added support as when they felt was needed. Second, I was immediately Smitten by the sight off Khushi live in her Cricketing Avatar -ofcourse. Third – I was very Proud and Happy, when I saw her get on with her Practise time with so much Dedication and then get the Cover Drive technique right. Fourth – I was beyond just amused, with the whole meet and greet scene inwardly indeed. It surely was Fun Guys.

Haha.

But on number Five of all that I was - comes in a Little Worry. As in, I did get a little worried as I spotted her walk off along with her Team mates off the field and I observed that there was a lot of daze in her body language which she was trying to conceal , but It kind of didn’t escape my eyes, ( I dont know how but I kind of could read through it)and I was then worried that what If the entire setting and the situation had intimidated her? For a Bit.

That’s why I texted her to Check on Her.

I obviously do not want to Intimidate her and scare her away in any way guys, and when she did tell me that she was finding it difficult to put me in the Mr Stranger frame, while I was on field, I felt a little bit of the worry go up on the Worry meter on its own accord and I thought to drop her a little Hint about the reason as to why I went to the Nets Session – which once again, she didn’t kind off catch on to. And then I just had to distract the topic and ask her to come soon, because I felt that seeing her smile at me naturally and not awkwardly, might be able to lessen my worry on the Worry Meter.

And I was right about that once again – as in the minute she reached the Hotel to chill out with us all, I was very glad and grateful about the fact that there wasn’t any awkwardness around at all. Yes, we were still keeping the pretend on that we only know each other through our siblings and engaged in some general + cricketing + family related conversations along with everyone as we chilled until after Dinner, and once again it was around 1015 when Rahul and Anjali left, and Rahul decided to Drop Khushi back to the hotel, on their way back again. And as Akash retired for the night as well, I once again, made my way here to the Trent Bridge Spot, in order to wait for Khushi.

I think she will be here in a couple of minutes, as she did text me while she had resumed her walk from her Hotel towards here. And now that I think of it everyone – I can’t really call this Space just My Spot anymore. Because as I sit her all by myself right now, I discover that I don’t really want to be just by myself in this Space, anymore.

Hmmmmm.

Everyone, I have a thought coming in – into my Head right now as I find myself chuckling fondly on reflex remembering Khushi’s adorable cluelessness. I am thinking now, that there could be a high probability of the fact that Khushi’s probably never been in a relationship before at all. As in I did inquire subtly from her if she had any boyfriends currently, which she did say that she didn’t. But I am thinking to myself – that what if she’s this Clueless about catching onto my hints because she’s never dated before at all.

I make a mental note to ask her about the same right now -Subtly.

I am right on that thought when I hear a little hustle bustle of footsteps in the grass and I look up to see Khushi nearing me with a grin up her face and her pink hoodie cap , is back on her head, and she now takes out the earphones that were plugged into her ears and says – “ look Skipper Blue, I am punctual today as well…iv reached bang on the time I had predicted I would, which is 1040 PM…”

I chuckle as I say, shifting up in my position a little in front of the tree trunk, gesturing her to sit in the spot she was sitting yesterday with her back to the tree trunk – “ and I am glad about that…because that anyway gives us just an hour to talk, before you go all..Skipper Blue…I need to leave so that I can make it back by midnight..”

Khushi grins and takes her seat in front off me, and leans back into the tree trunk comfortably and folds her legs comfortably in a cross and she states happily – “ it was a wonderful evening no with everyone???”

I nod as a smile returns to curve my lips naturally – “ yes Khushi.. indeed it was…”

Khushi eyes twinkles as she states – “ and akash is so very kool too…I mean you already know how I feel about Anjali…like bhai literally won’t stop smiling…that’s how happy she makes him ya…Skipper Blue…did you notice how they are around each other completely tuned into one another…and the happiness is evident on their faces isn’t it???”

I chuckle – “ yes, khushi , I noticed it very much…Rahul is really cool too..”

Khushi grins as she shrugs her shoulders up excitedly in a I -know -it move – “ I know right…afterall he is my superbro..he’s gotta be cool…Skipper Blue”

We share a warm laugh for a couple of seconds and I admit honestly – “ well I’m just glad that you seemed to be all relaxed when you reached the hotel…I mean…I was worried that I had maybe kind off put you in some awkward spot by coming to the nets session perhaps? I didn’t want to intimidate you at all Khushi…I swear..”

Khushi grins as she states – “ ohoooo…chill ya Skipper Blue…don’t worry about it all ok? remember I told you, it was the situation and the setting that was a tad bit intimidating not you at all…and guess what…I came up with this amazing strategy in my head ok? like while I was on the way to the hotel..that it kind off eased it all for me…and given the circumstances, I think the strategy is definitely going to do me good…”

I raise my eyebrow as I ask inquisitive, a side grin curving up my lip on it s own accord – “ really?? Did you come up with a strategy for the same?? Lets hear it…”

I was very eager to know, what her Head’s come up with Now.

Khushi chuckles and she points her index finger at me playfully – “ ok Skipper Blue, I will tell you all about it but only on one condition…”

I chuckle – “ what condition Khushi??”

Khushi rolls her twinkling eyes excitedly – “ on the condition that you are not going to laugh at all…promise…like pakaa se wala promise…or wait..more like pakka*infinity wala promise..”

I am already biting back my laugh – everyone.

How is she so Adorable again?

Khushi’s eyes widen as she states playfully – “ see…there you go Skipper Blue…you are already biting back on your laugh…fine…go ahead…I know you’v probably labelled me as an episode of Comedy Circus in your head…already…”

Wait. What???

Ok. Guys.

I can’t help It.

I burst into giggles now Immediately knowing that my contagious laughter will make Khushi laugh too, and we end up laughing it out loud for a couple of minutes, looking at each other happily.

God. I can’t begin to explain how Good I feel when I am with Her.

Like Really Good.

Really Really Good.

She’s also Mesmerisingly Irresistible, when shes got so much Happiness Dancing on her Face.

I am fighting my urge to silence her Laughter with a Deep Kiss right now – with great difficulty again.

I pause on my laugh and I put my hands up to my sides in surrender as I say honestly – “ ok…I promise…I’m not going to laugh anymore…I mean I will defiantly try to bite back on it…while I listen you talk to me about this strategy…”

Khushi nods and she states adorably – “ actually now that I think of it Skipper Blue…you can laugh if you want too…its kind off is a little funny…but its going to help me ease things within my head…and at the end of the day that’s all that matters…”

I ask with a smile – “ ok..tell me now…”

Khushi picks up her phone and she flashes the screen to my face and unlocks it and she states pointing to the icon – “ see…right now my phone says..its on vibration mode..and you know like it has more modes that I can keep switching in between as per my wish with regards to the situations around me…like silent, general ringer, or flight mode etc etc…”

I nod at her – “ yes I know Khushi…but why are we discussing the modes of our phones ringers again??”

Khushi states excitedly – “ ohhoo…wait..listen no….ok..see…so while I was heading upto Akash’s room to meet with you all…I put my phone from ringer to silent ok?? and right that is when an idea struck me…”

I ask grinning – “ ok…I figure you are building upto something..Khushi…go on…”

Khushi nods – “ yes…I am Skipper Blue..so right then I thought to myself…hey..before the dawn of cell phones + internet came around..people used to rely for media entertainment on mainly Radio or TV, right? Like for majority bit of the daily lives…right?? Like they would tune into different channels…or radio stations…as per what mood they are in …like if someone wants to watch news they are going to tune into a news channel, or if someone wants to watch cricket, they will tune into a sports channel, or if someone wants to watch a tv show, they will switch to different channel right?? Bu tyour TV remains the same…and Like even in radio..you keep switcing in between these various FM stations right?? But your gadget remains the same, similarly like how I just showed you my phone..the phone remains the same, but I have the freedom to switch in between different modes on it..”

I nod at her Puzzled, trying to figure out in my head where she is going with this.

Khushi grins excited and she states – “ sooo then…in my head I was like……dude Khushi think off Skipper Blue as TV no..you know like he is the Main TV Screen which is going to remain the same but just like how you tune into different channels on a TV Set, think off all different modes of Skipper Blue as different Channels…that you can probably switch to with an imaginary remote control button fixed within the walls of your head… ”

WHATTTTTTTTTTTTT DID SHE SAY?

GUYS.

THIS IS A FIRST AGAIN.

NO ONE’S EVER CALLED ME A – TV ever before!!!!

I ask amused – “ wait wait..wait…what??? Khushi..did you just call me a TV…like are you for real??”

Khushi chuckles as she states – “ ok..hear me out…so there are times when I might meet you in a professional setting like on the cricket ground in the nets session like I did today…then in that moment I tune into Channel 1 in my head, which will make me look at you as only Skipper Blue…one of my biggest cricketing inspirations of all time+ the Captain of the Indian Cricket Team…then there are times, when I am going to meet you with the setting or a situation which is going to with all our siblings, given the circumstances, then in my Head – I press the imaginarily remote control button and switch to Channel 2, in where we pretend to be all friendly, cool, and casual in front of our siblings more like the fact being that our interactions happen out of mandate/ like by default of our siblings being in love with one other….and then, there are times, when I am going to meet you as I am meeting you right now…as a friend…and because of the mysterious bubble of comfortable strange ways in which we connect, I am going to now switch to Channel 3 in which you are not like a reflection of the Channel 1 0r 2 at all…you will be like a whole different channel …the channel of Mr Stranger…so that ways, in my headspace I can go about it all with like a lot of ease…I meet you in a professional setup..bam switch my head to channel 1, I meet you with our siblings…switch to Channel 2, I meet you like this..as like great friends in the making…press the button to Channel 3…puff see…how easy that it…there won’t be any room for intimidation at all then…as in …like this afternoon remember how I told you that I couldn’t look at you in the frame as Mr Stranger..and then I expressed it over chat to you…and that kind off had me thinking…and I was asking my head to help me figure this out…because I understood ofcourse that your intention was not to intimidate me at all Skipper Blue…but look see the TV screen remains the same…”,and she gestures that out to me by outlining a TV square in front of my face playfully and adds with a grin – “ but I can switch the channels as and how the situation requires, like for example, before I entered Akash’s room , I closed my eyes and instructed myself to Channel 2 and that’s why you could immediately catch on to how relaxed I was as normally, and while on my way here..i switched to Channel 3…and that’s why…I am so relaxed now too…so basically that way in my head..it gotten all easy peasy..like all sorted…soo…yeah…that’s the strategy….You Skipper Blue are like this really kool TV now, in my head..…”, she finishes with an adorable chuckle.

Ok Everyone.I am beyond amused by the way her head works for Real.

I chuckle as I look at her amused – “ ok …trust me…I have never heard anything like this before…and I most definetly have never been called a TV before…like ever…but if that’s what makes you comfortable Khushi…then hey..why not think off it this way…”

I do wish I can tell her soon that I am in all moods to add another Channel into the List – though. A super special Channel.

Khushi chuckles – “ I know right…”

I ask grinning – “ and when we are texting and chatting..then what Channel are you tuned into Khushi??”

Khushi chuckles – “ channel 3 of Mr Stranger.. ofcourse Skipper Blue…but now you know what ..here comes in a little twist..because we are like great friends in the making..and have like truckloads of things in common…im thinking…lets give Channel 3 a whole new modern get up…you know like how smart TV’s have apps and stuff these days..so like if you say take Netflix or either Hotstar…the minute you open them…you have like a range of genres that you can choose what you want to watch from…so similarly…Channel no 3 is also like the App, in which we can list out so many various genres of our conversations…like varying from cricket, family, siblings, our other common things, general day to day stuff, etc etc…and wait wait wait as I say this out loud to you…I think I want give the app which is like a Synonym to Channel 3 a name as well – hmmm…how about if we call it App - 2122, and that’s because your jersey no is 21 and mine in 22…what say Skipper Blue? You like the name no?? and incase if you don’t like it…we can totally rename it to something different…”

I am literally biting back on my laugh but I grin as I admit honestly – “ well this is interesting you know Khushi…and…the name for the App is good too…2122 , a very good choice for the name……so just checking… its like we are tuned into Channel 3 which = App 2122 right now?? Right???”

She grins and nods happily – “ yes…exactly…like see App 2122 is like a extra bonus app feature only exclusive to Channel 3…ok??? ”

I bite back my laugh as I state – “ got it Khushi…done…I totally get your point…and I mist say that’s a very strange yet very intriguing strategy..indeed…”

Khushi chuckles and states happily – “ thank you so much Skipper Blue…and well now you can laugh you know…I know youv been biting back on it…”,and before I can Khushi bursts into a little laugh herself as she states through– “ god ya…I know its funny…but it helps ok…”

Our eyes lock and I burst into laughter again as well as I say through it – “ I understand Khushi…I swear I do…”

And as we continue to share a warm laughter again,I can’t help but laugh – Happily and Freely.

Guys.

How Can I Not be Smitten by Her???

She’s gotten into My Head.

Khushi pauses on her laughter first and she says taking a deep breathe as says – “ ok so Mr Stranger…since you heard me out yesterday…how about we tune into the conversation that was left from last night…as in remember you still gotta tell me about your dreams…lets totally tune into the genre of Dreams in that list of conversations…cmon…go on..i am listening…”

I grin happily as I say – “ ok..then…lets get started..”

Please Note – I have never been this excited about talking about my Dreams to anyone, apart from my Family ever.

Khushi asks inquisitive – “ ok so tell me Skipper Blue..when you started out…in the national squad…you know just like I am right now…what did you dream for yourself…like did you ever dream that you’d be where you are now???”

I admit honestly – “ ok..so to be very honest…I didn’t think then..when I started out…that id be the Captain of the Indian cricket team one day in all formats…like it wasn’t what I dreamt off to start with you know Khushi…that dream kind off just formulated along the way you know…”

Khushi nods in an understanding – “ ofcourse…I get you…goals evolve…they evolve just as we do.…”

I grin – “ exactly, but you know one things remained common through out my journey…as to what the dreams revolve around eventually…and that’s Cricket…you know like my love for the game…so while I was on this journey to where I am now, and mapping my very own emotions through out it all…I’v always given priority to the fact that it’s the game the matters to me Khushi…like you know everything that comes along with it, in being attached to the sport we are…is kind off like a secondary thing for me…or more like its something iv tucked into the boot of my car in terms of priority…”

Khushi nods in understanding – “ you mean…that youv packed up the glitz and glamour, the fame, the name etc etc…and ducked it in the boot of you car in terms of priority right??”

I nod as I say – “ yes exactly that’s exactly what I mean…as in I do understand that all these things come around because of the profession and job profile I am in…but what I mean to say is that, that snot what drives me or motivates me to keep playing with passion and determination and keep going forward…it never was..because iv obviously seen and known the fact that all of these things are just like temporary you know in the sense…the fame, glitz, glamour, the name – its all going to go by one day in a puff anyway, like you know its going to die down..wither down…eventually when one stops playing etc or actually it all starts get to mixed up when critics etc about your performance stagnancy starts to get into picture you know because as cricketers/sportspersons we all do have our days..some phases.. …so I never believed in having something which is anyway temporary in nature be the driving/motivational force of what I do or for my dreams for that matter…the core of it all always has been the love I have for my game…because that’s kind off rooted permanently in me..right??? infact even today I tell myself…that I do what I do because I love to do it.because that’s what I want to do in my heart….not because its being influenced by any other secondary factors”

Khushi nods as she states sincerely – “and I totally understand …and I think this is great Skipper Blue..because I truly believe as well that theres no greater motivation or drive than the one that comes straight from the heart…”

I grin – “ and I knew you would understand Khushi…not many people do though…its very normal for many to think naturally…because of the way cricket is perceived in our country that one works to dawn the blue jersey because of the name, fame, glitz, glamour that comes around with it…but it truly isn’t that for me..never has been…I continue to focus on my performance and fitness so that I can give the best version of myself to the game I love out there when I step out on the field…and in my heart..i know whats the core is..”

Khushi nods with a knowing grin – “ and that’s all that matters you know…what you believe in your heart…”

I nod, and our eyes lock and she asks softly – “ ok..then go on…tell me all about when and how did this entire thought came into your being that you could be Captain one day…you know since you mentioned it evolved along the way…”

I admit honestly grinning – “ ok so that was like more like off late as in..after I was handed in the Test Captaincy and cap dev and the board would keep dropping hints that he is looking to step down as captain soon…”,and I continue to tell her all about it, my dreams, and my goals, and my aspirations that evolved along the way, and everything I went through in my cricketing emotions uptil the time I took over as Captain and everything that happened for me after uptil this point, and she’s listening with not just keen interest but with so much sincerity in her eyes that it moves me.

About 20 - 25 minutes later once I am done telling her everything I say with a grin in conclusion - “so yup…that’s was what it was for me…and here I am today..sitting in front of you…as Skipper Blue…with my priorities still standing very clear in front of my eyes in terms of the professional role, on number one - still being my love for the game..Second being the fact that I dream to keep our unit a close knit one as always, leading from the front but at the same time be empowering and supportive towards the team as Captain, with the aim to keep the dressing room atmosphere all kool and relaxed, friendly and empowered with the balanced amount of positive aggression , in there as well because it’s the Team that matters at the end off the day, it’s like all our fingers that make the fist together now doesn’t it…”. Khushi nods happily in un understanding and I continue with another grin – “and then comes in the dream to keep playing and giving my best to India as long as I can…until age and health allows, for as sportsperson we are all aware about this right? That there will come a point when we have to retire from the games…so yes..for now…I also dream to give it my all as long as I can…”

Khushi nods in an understanding and she states with a smile – “ and I think you’ v got a long way to go ahead Skipper Blue…for real…but tell me something..i mena now that we are at it…have you thought off what after? As in when you stop playing you know when the age/health factor comes in??i mean you do have this huge family business in the background too right…”

I grin as I raise my eyebrow – “ ok..this is exactly where I ask you to take a guess…as in…what do you think I will do when I stop playing cricket…”

Lets see if she can Guess this.

Something in my Gut tells me that she Will.

Khushi nods as she says deep in thought – “ ok…so if the guess is on me…then on the basis of how much I have gotten to know you until now… I definitely want to take a guess that I don’t think you have any plans or dreams of ever joining in your family business, I think you are going to do something that’s going to make you stay connected to the game indeed…like as game analyst, sometimes even a commentator…or wait.. even coach, or maybe you might open a cricket academy or something like that…or maybe join in the BCCI on the board…I mean I am sure your family and Akash might want otherwise but either ways I’m guessing that you are going to stay deeply connected with cricket even after you stop playing…”

See Guys.

My Gut was right Again.

She Guessed it – Bang On.

I admit with a grin – “ and you guessed it right Khushi…that’s what the plan is…you know the options are many…as you pointed out…so I am going to take on what my heart asks me to follow when the time comes….and yes even if I do take up on businesses…it wont definetly be related to the family business…I am so not getting into that…for it doesn’t catch my interest you know…id rather do a business thats always going to be sport related which yes might not necessarily be restricted to cricket…but even then businesses and stuff..that will be like a thing happening in the background…the forefront of focus will still be what I do with regards to cricket…”

Khushi grins – “ obviously ya Skipper Blue…I mean I figured that you will say the latter bit…because its like even all your brand endorsements mainly are sports related stuff…right?? I think its always been that way right…”

I nod as I admit – “ yup…its always been that way…except for this one time…where in I was shooting for this popular consumer product which was not related to sport…”

Khushi asks – “ oh wait…are you talking about that ad shoot with Pia??”

I nod – “ yup…that one exactly…that was actually where I first met her..”

Khushi nods and she states with a genuine smile – “ I know…as in Pia talked about it one of her interviews no…she talked all about where you guys first met..and stuff…Jess kind off is her big fan too…she’d always show me her interviews and hey to be honest…that was a good Ad nonetheless…Skipper Blue…the camera kind off likes you,..you know…”

I grin as I say – “ thank you khushi…ill take that as a compliment…”

Khushi grins – “ it definitely was supposed to be one Skipper Blue…and on that note can I say something?”

I say – “ yes please???”

Khushi chuckles – “ ok so you wont believe this..while we were walking off the ground today after the little meet and greet with you…Jess was still sulking over your and Pia’s break up for real…she was all like shipping you both and saying things like I hope they reconcile soon…”

I ask amused – “ really??”

Ok Jess – you’v totally got it all Wrong. For iv got my eyes on your friend whose sitting in front of me – all crazily adorably clueless about it all, for real.

Khushi chuckles – “ yes yes..really…arree half of India is still holding on that Hope…Skipper Blue…its maybe because you guys did look really good together…I mean gotta state a fact as is right?”

I state on reflex, sincerly – “ well the half of India can hope whatever they want…but that’s not going to happen anyway…Pia and me are Over…there’s no way that we can ever be together again…”

I am now anticipating Khushi to ask me about the reason of our break up, but once again she doesn’t and states with a genuine Skipper Blue – “ ofcourse ya Skipper Blue…you must do what makes you happy …the world is like this only no…they will keep talking…anyway…so might as well do what makes you happy right??? The Happiness within should be priority no…as in on personal stuff as well…”

Ok.

Everyone.

I see a little window in here.

I think I can subtly ask what’s been on my Mind.

I state honestly – “ well yes…I agree with you on that as well…and I want to ask you something Khushi…can i??”

Khushi nods – “ yes Skipper Blue…please go ahead…”

I ask – “ ok since we are still tuned into Channel 3/app 2122, you wouldn’t mind if I scroll down within the genre of Dream, as in like to another subsection…”

Khushi shoots me a puzzled look – “ ohkk…yes…I wouldn’t mind..Skipper Blue…so whats this subsection…”

I make sure that I am looking to her eyes as I say this – “ ok so this subsections a little personal one…my friend …I want to ask…so whats it like been for you ??”

Khushi looks at me puzzled again – “ whats been like what about me Skipper Blue??”

I ask with a casual smile – “ as in..dating…relationships…hows it been for you??you did say that you have no one that you are seeing currently as in your boyfriends, but I am sure you must be seeing someone before too right…so what about you as in…whom were you seeing before this??well it’s a fair question Khushi…I dare you to tell me honestly.. since you already know who I was seeing ..all thanks to the media + social media…”

Khushi chuckles as she states - “ well yes now that you put it that way…yes I already have a lot of information on that angle from before only….”

I ask, locking my eyes with hers – “ and I don’t have any information on that angle with regards to you…so cmon then tell me…”

Khushi asks, a flash of surprise going through her eyes – “ for real? Like you really want to know for real??”

I nod – “ ofcourse…Khushi…why do you think I asked??”

Khushi shrugs her shoulders and she states with an amused expression – “ well then I just gotta be honest ya…as in..there isn’t really much to say on that accord/angle for me actually Skipper Blue…which means that I have never kind off been in any relationship ever before…like no boyfriends ever…so I wouldn’t have much to talk about on this bit at all…”

Ok.

See Everyone.

I was Right in My Guess – As Well.

I ask on reflex because I want to know the answer – “ and why is that Khushi?? As in don’t you want to be in a relationship??”

Khushi chuckles as she states sincerely – “ ok I am about to tell you a secret…please keep it safe with you…ok? Skipper Blue?? Only Jess knows this…and now you would know…”

I nod – “ ofcourse khushi…tell me…”

Khushi whispers softly – “ I swear to the cricketing gods, I wouldn’t know how to be in a relationship, even if the sky falls down on me ya…I am like such a freaking Tomboy within for real…I have no clue about it at all…like to be honest…sometimes like on tours when we go out and stuff for dinners and everything and there have been instances when guys have come up to me and Jess to strike up a conversation and in those moments…its like Sheena di or Harpreet di or even Jess for that matter will tell me..Khushi..that boy was trying to flirt with you…and he walked away because you were so freaking clueless about it…apparently my crazy cluelessness with regards to these matters is like very putting off for boys ya Skipper Blue…”

STUPID FREAKING BOYS.

PLEASE NOTE – I AM ALSO THANKING GOD FOR THESE STUPID FREAKING BOYS.

AND SHE’S FREAKING CRAZY TO SAY THAT IT COULD BE PUTTING OFF.

I MEAN – WE ALL KNOW WHATS IT DOING TO ME RIGHT?

ITS FREAKING DRAWING ME TO HER.

I ask looking into her sincerely clueless eyes, they still have no idea as to why I asked her this – “ really?? What makes you think it could be putting off??”

Khushi shrugs and she states honestly – “ well…I don’t know…I guess I just figured that out in my head…but you know what Skipper Blue…I think its isn’t about just that…to be honest I don’t even think I have ever met someone that I genuinely want to be with..you know like in that sense…like whom I can genuinely sincerely like…it could be because my experience with boys uptil now has kind off been very twisted…”

I ask puzzled – “ ok…define twisted…”

Khushi chuckles – “ more like I am always scaring them away kind off twisted…you wont believe, it wasn’t just very recently jess and me scare this one guy away who came up to talk to me because..he was all like oh wait? Does India even have a cricket team for women….we gave it back to him so nicely ya…as in I gave in a full lecture about the history of women’s cricket in India…he obviously ran away…”

I ask – “ reallyyy????but hey…that kind of ignorance and gender stereotype is definitely rude…”

Khushi nods and she says – “ exactly right….ok hear this…do you know once I even scared a boy away by raising my bat to his face…”

I ask amused , imagining the scene in my head already – “ really??? When was this?? And why???”

Khushi chuckles – “ during school days ya obviously like Grade 11 definitely…and what could I do ya…he was so disrespectful towards the fact that I could play cricket only because I am a girl…he was a year senior though like grade 12…and well to be honest..i used to have a crush on him ok …but one fine day…all of that changed…when he opened his mouth out in front off me and there was only sarcasm, and condescending down dripping out of his voice all being like – Khushi I like you..but before we get on with that…I want to know are you really serious about all this cricket stuff?? I mean cmon you can’t be serious…what future do you have in this???and I thought to myself in my head that dude you mean to say you just like the way I look perhaps and that’s what you are interested in..and not in me as person in general at all…and I decided to give it back to him ok… And he said that to me when I was walking out for practice…ok? so I had my bat on me…I literally picked it up to his face and stated – you shoo away now…before I get my bat to shoo you away as if you were a freaking cricket ball…go to hell dammit…I am so not interested in being with male chauvinists pigs in the making like you …”

I say on reflex, grinning – “ really????????…”

Khushi chuckles – “ yup…really…well he obviously ran away ya and we never spoke again…”,and her smile lessens and she shrugs now – “ well its always been that way actually…”

I ask inquisitive – “ what do you mean??”

Khushi sighs – “ so..ofcourse while I was growing up…boys would always try to bully me because of my interest in cricket…they’d be like…you play cricket? Can you even hold a freaking bat?? Etc etc…I eventually learnt how to stand up to them ofcourse…but it was a journey to that bit…initially it used to get to me ofcourse…dad, mom, bhai were always there guiding me through it all…I can never thank them enough for that ya…infact bhai was always there initially in school no…as in hes five years older to me, so until he passed out, he’d always give it back to anyone who tried to bully his little sister, but it was when he passed out of school I realised hey…I can’t rely for support all the time…gotta freaking face these bullies head on and stand up for myself, myself….because I always believed in my dreams…I wasn’t going to let bullies deter away my spirit….and once I decided that…it kind of got better…”

Wait.

What?

I want to Smash these Bully Boys with my Bat.

I state – “ im so sorry to hear this Khushi…will you be comfortable enough to talk to me about it??”

Khushi nods and smiles naturally – “ ofcourse…yes..ok..where do I start from..there were like so many instances ya..boys were so mean to me ya..always especially in school…actually some girls were too…you know there were times I wished Jess went to the same school as me…I mean I know her for ages now…but we were in different schools…there were a couple of people, whom I thought were my friends back in school…but then most of them would vanish from around me when some of these bullying/cornering/targeting incidents would happen…and I realised that they were just good weather friends you know…” ,and she continues to briefly highlight all the instances she faced in school and Iv freaking smashed every bully imaginarily with my bat right in their faces while I am listening on keenly my heart going out to her and minutes later once she is done, she concludes with a shrug of her shoulders – “ and well to be honest to you…this is very common you know…Jess used to face it too...people just don’t want to accept the fact that a girl might want to pursue sports professionally with as much ease you know…I think it’s the stereotypes no…infact now as iv gotten to know people in the team…its like everyone has faced something like being targeted, bullied, or being out under unnecessary pressure to change ones decision…at some point surely….either in their school circle, family circle, society etc….you know how it is right??but In a way over time as I look back at it all…I look at it as a blessing in disguise…facing all of that has kind off made me a stronger person within…like you know how things like this test you for your inner strength?”

I nod.

I know exactly what she means, and I gesture her to go on with a Smile, locking my eyes with her.

Khushi smiles – “ and well all thanks to Dad and Mom and Bhai…they always were there for me…theyv supported me and my dreams…infact all of my family circle has as well…so I would tell myself when I would be amidst a bullying scene , that I am lucky to have my family’s love and belief in my dreams…who the hell are these people to tell me what I should want or dream of being???and then I would just take power and courage from that…and then give it back left, right and center to these bullies you know…and then eventually no one ever dared to corner me because they actually started fearing that I was capable of smashing my bat or swing a ball in their faces…”

I say sincerely, sure the admiration and pride was dripping in my voice – “ khushi I think its commendable off you to stand up to all of this..and look at you today..here you are following your dreams…dawned in a Blue Jersey…playing for India Women…”

Khushi nods with a grin – “ thank you so much Skipper Blue and thats….because iv always believed what Daddy, Mom and Bhai have taught me…and that’s a fact that gender doesn’t define dreams…and I gotta believe in my dreams and myself no matter what…. like Its on me to atleast give it my best shot at following the dream I see for myself…the results may vary with time ofcourse…but I gotta do what I gotta do…can’t give up…right??one’s gotta go the distance…”

I nod and I say with a smile – “ and you will go the distance khushi….always…im sure about that….”

Khushi grins and she says – “ thank you so much ya Skipper Blue…ok…so can I tell you something more?? As in I have a feeling you will understand and not be all judgy about it…”

I nod – “ please yes…tell me…”

Khushi – “so you know I am always a big supporter of women empowerment etc, but then again…it’s the gender equality that’s the bit I like to focus on…its my belief that no ones superior or inferior…like not even..49 – 51…its should be like 50-50…but then I guess society’s still going to take time to get around to accepting the fact…and that’s why its such a common topic of discussion too…for it’s a sad truth that there is gender disparity everywhere…in so many spectrums, almost every field…so much of it in sports too Skipper Blue…as you already know…its not just our sport…but almost every sport in India…girls face this disparity…the doubt, the sarcasm, from friends, some even face it from their family, and then the society of course which anyway loves to stereotype and keep talking god knows what not…”

I nod as I say sincerely – “ I know exactly what you mean Khushi…”

Khushi – “ so basically that view kind off just transfers to a personal level also as in I believe the same…as in like that..in a relationship…no ones superior , no ones inferior…gods made the two of us genders for two reasons – its gotta be 50-50, you know like a partnership…I mean if you look at life, in life are their gender exclusive matches??? In sport perhaps yes…oh definetly yes…”

I nod in a understanding and We share a warm laugh for a couple of seconds.

My respect and admiration is rising for her with the second and she continues now – “so..what I mean is that can that be the same for life?? In the sense in a relationship? I don’t think so…the scale most definitely shouldn’t lean on any side of the spectrum…its gotta be equal…like I want to listen to what the other person has to say..and I also want to be heard for who I am…I am a strong individual in the making Skipper Blue…I have a voice, an individuality, and I want to be with someone who respects that, its like you know hows thers this border line difference in between unnecessary patriarchal domination vs being subtly supportive and empowering through discussions and looking for mututally win win situations which give both the parties sheer happiness along the way …so its like I want to be with someone who believes in the latter…and uptil now its like iv never really met someone who is ready to see me for who I am…or understand me for who I am within ..and I am kind off very clear on this accord Skipper Blue…if someone has to like me…be with me ..then it has to be for who I am…I am not going to change myself even a dime bit…so that I can fit into some wishlist template of boys ya…because if I change who I am …then it means im being dishonest and disrespectful to myself and I could never do that to myself you know…”

I nod as I say sincerely – “ ofcourse Khushi…you must never have to fit into a template…”

Khushi chuckles – “ I know right…and to be honest…I couldn’t fit into any freaking template even if I tried because like I told you…I love myself way too much to try to take a shot at being something just because someone else wants it…like for example…I want to have the freedom of choice with me always…like if I ever get into a relationship..there might come a point that I might want to do something for the other person…like its like it should be by choice no…like I want to do it out of emotion or out of love…it should not be like I have to do this etc etc….”

I nod at her in an understanding.

And you know what I feel?

Blown Away.

She’s freaking Blown me Away in a Sixer.

I think I am the Ball and her amazingly sorted out thoughts are the Bat right Now.

Khushi grins - “ so yeah…I mean boys are free to get themselves customised robot gf’s or Siri’s/Alexa’s if they want their emphasis and interests lie on expecting someone to change themselves for them…I surely am not interested…”

I chuckle now as I state – “ customised Siri’s/Alexa’s??? how do you even come up with that..”

Khushi chuckles – “ are true no…they should date Alexa?siri no if they want or expect a girl to act as per a list of instruction manual…so yeah basically Skipper Blue a combination of all of the above that I just told you + the fact that someone should be ready to accept long distance aspect of the relationship that is going to be in the picture by default because of what I do + the fact that that someone needs to prioritize on being loyal kind of equals to be a difficult combination to find in a boy/man these days….and then obviously it has to feel right in the heart as well no…should make me happy too and well none of that has happened yet…….so yes…now that its anyway such a difficult combination to find I guess its kind off understood that I am going to stay single for quite a bit…and until then I am already in a very deep commitment with my 22 yards no…”

I nod in an understanding – “ I respect your point of view Khushi…for real…”

Khushi nods with a smile – “ I know you do Skipper Blue…its on your face and in your eyes…”

And even though she didn’t ask, I want to say this to her now and I admit , locking my eyes with hers – “ loyalty is very important to me too Khushi…you know…long distance is obviously tough, buts that’s how its by default for me too right…”

Khushi nods – “ ofcourseee…Skipper Blue…”

I admit honestly – “ and the reason why I broke up with Pia was this…she kind of cheated on me…”

Khushi asks her eyes widening in shock – “ wait….what??????????????she cheated on you?????????”

I nod as I admit – “ so you know shes got a movie coming up right??”

Khushi nods – “ yup….”

I explain – “ she was on a outdoor shoot, and ended up cheating on me with her co- star…”

Khushi’s eyes widen in shock – “ whattttttttttttttttttttttt????????like really?????”

I nod and I fill her in all about it and I also tell her about the fact that I did appreciate that she was honest about it to me atleast, and even though she requested me to bury it behind…I obviously couldn’t, and I was also glad that it happened before I got too serious , or fell in love with her.

Khushi listens on keenly and once I am done filling her up about it she says softly – “ im so sorry Skipper Blue…but you know what I understand what you mean…trust + respect is like a foundation of every relationship..indeed…and honestly after knowing all of this and seeing the fact that you still never spoke any ill of her ever in public /media kind of doubles my respect for you….like that’s super good on you ya Skipper Blue…”

I smile – “ thank you so much khushi…”

Khushi smiles – “ see don’t I say…you are like the kindest yorker ever…”

We share a warm laugh now and right then our eyes lock,and Khushi says – “ and don’t worry, im not going to talk to anyone about this…ever…like no one will know from me…”

I admit honestly – “ I trust you on that Khushi…and you know what it feels really really good to talk to you…its so very nice to just talk to someone who gets me for who I am…I really like to talk to you…”

Khushi smiles, keeping her eyes locked with mine and she says softly – “ its likewise too Skipper Blue, as in…you get me..and it feels nice to be understood, and heard…and not be judged….you know what honestly…on the first day when we met…the reason as to why I stood there talking to you even though you were like a total stranger…it was because of the respect that was evident in your voice and tone, when you heard I am a female cricketer…even though I couldn’t see your face..i could sense it…which was like a first for me, because like I told you most of the time I hear a tinch of patriarchal sarcasm, and condescending doubt dripping in mens voices or through their tones and gestures the minute they hear about what I do…so yeah…its most definetly likewise Skipper Blue…I like to talk to you too…why do you think I came up with the TV+ Channel strategy…so that none of the intimidation stemming from the fact of who you are professionally can make me feel weird about our friendship…”

I admit with a grin – “ well id like to thank your brilliant head then for coming up with that strategy just in time then..”

Khushi grins – “ just in time indeed….”

And right then her Alarm buzzes off and she chuckles and states – “ look Mr.Alarm has also arrived Just in Time, indeed….”

We share a warm laugh as we get up now and start to make our usual way back and I ask – “ ok so tomorrow you are going to join us after Noon right??”

Khushi nods grinning – “ yup…straight up after gym + training time, since theres no nets session tomorrow, and I know Anjali is so very excited for the day out shes planned out for us all tomorrow…”

What she doesn’t know that My insides are Dancing in Glee too.

I admit grinning – “ I know…and im just gald ill get to see you tomorrow for longer…because I am scheduled to leave dayafter morning..like by 5am…”

Khushi smiles and grins – “ yup…but I shall be tuned into Channel no 2 of this amazing TV in front of everyone remember???”

I chuckle – “ yes ofcourse Khushi…”

Our eyes Lock for a couple of seconds and to my dismay she looks away after a minute or so and we resume our walk and I say – “and you are going to text me like you always do…ok? the minute you reach?pakka se..”

Khushi nods with a smile – “ ofcourse Skipper Blue…pakka*infinity se..”

Our eyes Lock again and I swear to God – I could stand right here int his very Spot and look into her Bewitching Eyes All Night.

But to my dismay she breaks the eyelock away and states as we reach the intersection – “ okkk…tata…Skipper Blue..ill be off now…”,and she waves me a bye cheerfully and I wave back at her with a grin and she turns around and starts to jog in the usual direction.

And once again – I am standing rooted to my Spot, looking out at her Vision, until its in the line of my eyes.

Raizada.

Put your Brains into Freaking Overtime for this – if you Have too.But you Gotta Figure out a Way – off Wooing Khushi for yourself.You need to Nurture this Connection – so that it gets you on Another Super Special Channel Spot in her TV Guide.

This is Freaking Important everyone.

I gotta take this Slow and Nurture it, so that she is comfortable enough to keep letting me in, and then eventually I am going to whisk her Away from her very own self.

Ask me Why?

Because remember how I said yesterday that I think I want to be the Man off Her Dreams.

Id like to Scratch out the Think Bit – surely Now. Because I don’t think I want to be the Man of her Dreams.

I WANT TO BE THE MAN OF HER DREAMS – INDEED.

FOR REAL.

……………………………

TADAAAAA!!!!!

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

Next Update : will try to give an Update Tomorrow Night or Wednesday Night. After that there will be a little halt for a week or so for I will 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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