CHAPTER 25 – BOLD , GOLD & AFTERPARTY

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee...

SURPRISEEEEE!!

AS IN 50% – SURPRISE!! (Winks)

I know I said that the Chances of the Update coming up Today were 50-50..thats why I said 50% Surprise, as here I am today, with an Update.It's a Long long one guys – 10.7k words

Will be Eager to know what you all think, as alwayssss.

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

Alsoooo – Guys – how many of you watching RCB vs CSK right now?? I for sure, am. Like the sight of Kohli batting , and Dhoni behind the Stumps is an epic one for me, always – irrespective of who wins, since I am a big fan of both!! I am obviously rooting for RCB though.Kohli at 53 not out right now..haha..he just fired another Six..Yipppeeeee..haha..i am literally Dancing..ok guys another Six by Kohli – hes on 67, !!! okk..he's firing Sixes..on 77 now(whoot whoot)

Ok ok – I shall now stop about my Crazy about Cricketing Rant and let you all dive in without further Delay..

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

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CHAPTER 25 – BOLD , GOLD & AFTERPARTY

SAME NIGHT - 11 :00 PM

@WANKHEDE CRICKET STADIUM

KHUSHI'S POV

Guys, please note – that the Cricketing Gods, above in the sky, have surely set out to have some fun. As in – they are surely pulling up the strings to sketch out, a very nail biting thriller of the IPL, finale – for Real.

I am clutching on to Jess's hand in pure nervousness, as I see the majority of the Stadium, roaring up with their Blue Flags. Only Obvious, because well we are the Wankhede, for the finals, and they all have assumed surely in their heads, that Mumbai is going to win this one. But like I always believe in Cricket, it's never really over until the last ball, you literally cannot even take the last over for granted, until well a team needs more than 36 runs to win in the last over , for that would be beyond the equation of 6*Sixes.( We are all at the closest nearest Stand to the ground, and not in the VIP Box. I can also see – Akash, Noor, and Payal, Samira(Rohan's fiancé) and Captain Dev's faces being blown up on screen along with a couple of more Bangalore team and Mumbai team's, players friends family member's faces on the screen, as the media people are showing flashes of images from the VIP and the family box, as the Over is Chaniging. They are all obviously a little nervous and tense too.)

I hear Vikram's voice fall in my ears from behind, now – " I am pretty sure that its super intense on the field out there...the game's so close to the end, it could still go either way.. all Bangalore needs is a couple of wickets, in this next over.."

Hridhaan says – "yes it could still go either way, for sure, for there are still two overs to ago, and to be honest, the finals just entertained me thoroughly, irrespective of whoever wins...I am siding with Bangalore, though."

Shivi, me and Jess, turn around to look at the two behind us as we say in unison – " yes, Hridhaan, aren't we all siding with Bangalore..i mean see, we are all in the complete fan get up, so much so that we could get on the field and play the game ourselves.."

We all share a warm laugh.

Jess rolls her eyes at Vikram as she says, her tone getting a little tense – " but a couple of wickets, isn't a cakewalk ya Vikram...I mean specially when those two batsmen are set on the field.."

Vikram grins and looks all around and says with a playful wink– " yes, is not a cakewalk for sure, but it isn't impossible Jess.."

Jess nods, and smiles at him – " you are right about that Vikram, it isn't impossible.."

Vikram chips in further – "but we are in minority for sure, I mean, that's one of the reasons why I want Bangalore to win this, you know so that the minority of us all in the various stands, in the stadium supporting Bangalore, actually get to cheer out the loudest at the end of the game.."

Hridhaan grins at Vikram as he says – "ok guys, c'mon, that's ASR's frame being blowed up on screen right now, as he is playing with the ball, in his hand, probably thinking which bowler should he hand over the second last over to bowl..."

Shivi rolls her eyes playfully as she says – " thanks bhai, for letting us know what ASR could be thinking right now, I mean, how would we know..."

Hridhaan ruffles Shivi's hair playfully as he says – "very funny Shivi,and well we surely can't know what's on his mind, because I think I just saw him smiling to himself, as he's swinging the ball in his hand, all by himself, he isn't even talking to any bowler right now. He is taking a moment out to just think it out perhaps? "

Jess nods as she says, concerned – " yes, strange, he's grinning, like literally grinning, how ?? I mean just how?? Mumbai needs like 21 runs to win the final in like 12 balls, and Veer and Kolard are still on strike, for Mumbai is 170 – 4, which means that it is actually doable for Mumbai...just what is he thinking to himself??" and Jess pulls me by the hand as she leans into my ear and whispers – " you better ask him about this, later on ok? and let me know? I am obviously intrigued.."

I nod, biting back my grin.

Guys, I am so very sure, that Arnav's just thought off that Pressure = Theives/Robbers, bit, as he is taking these couple of seconds off on the field to just rethink his Strategy, in the head.

Just a quick background glimpse - Bangalore, played a brilliant first innings everyone as in Arnav won the toss, chose to bat first, because in the pitch analysis, it totally looked out to be like a batter's pitch, which turned out to be True, for the Mumbai bowlers couldn't get much wickets too. Bangalore scored – 190 -2,(which was like a super high score in the Finals,and that also that means Arnav and DB batted through the innings and were not out by the end of the first innings, and the Bangalore openers scored about 50 runs , and then they got out consecutively in the same over, after which Arnav came in first and then DB eventually and they both held the fort and Arnav scored 75* and DB – 65*, to get to that high score of 190 – 2, in the Final. But since, it was a Treat for the Batter's today, and the Mumbai batting line up is pretty strong, the games come to the point where they just need 21 runs, in 12 balls, as you all heard Jess say.(Rohan's made about 35 runs and then got out in a cheeky catch out at first slip, as Ravi bowled a killer carrom ball,and as he took the shot, the ball went straight into Arnav's hand. The sight was really amusing for me to see, because well I am obviously aware about the three of these people's personal equation, as in, Ravi + Rohan+ Arnav, and even though Rohan was disappointed, over getting out that way, Arnav ,Rohan, Ravi did share this cheek grin amongst themselves, as Rohan was walking out the pitch, because he knew, his close friends, had just set him up into playing the shot, that cost him wicket)

Jess whispers into my ears, now – " What could he be thinking?Ravi and Stan have a over left each, both have been excellent in the death this tournament, but with Veer and Kolard set, whom do you think he's going to give the over too? Each of the main bowlers have a wicket each today..."

I say, whispering back – " this over is obviously the most crucial, its going to decide the course of the result, so my guess is maybe...Ravi, you know because he can do that trick with that slower ball of his in the death, he plays the sloth kind of delivery which could go for a mistimed hit and a catch out.. Veer often does get out to those ones, at around fine leg...and Arnav surely knows that..."

Jess winks – " oh yes, indeed, and you have that little note mentioned next to Veers name in your notes in your blue book...Veer -*often gets out to slow balls in the death, by catch outs at fine legs or mid off*, I am sure SB will recall.."

I nudge Jess in her side – " I am sure he will recall ya Jess, but not because off my notes or something, but because he knows Veer as a batsmen inside out and he knows Ravi too..."

We look up to see the scene on the field and I smile to myself.

Right then we hear Shivi exclaim – " oh yippee, Ravi gets the ball...he's getting ready to bowl..."

Hridhaan – " I thought he's give it to Stan , since he is the seamer, and because of the pitch conditions – maybe his yorker's will do the work..."

Vikram – " ya, I thought so too..strange, Ravi has had an amzing spell as well, but his traditional spin could go out for big hits, out of the park as well...it's a risky move..."

Hridhaan – " yes, both Risky and Bold.."

Shivi turns to say – " oh bhai, stop with your analysis please...and let us watch the game...its anyway such a tense moment...you wait....Bangalore's gonna be like We Played Bold and Won the Gold this time, for sure..."

We all chuckle and I ruffle Shivi's hair, happily as I say – " that's a good one Shivi, Played Bold and Won the Gold.."

Jess winks at Shivi – "I love it..Shivi.. let's find a way of getting that out on one of the meme's online on Insta, if bangalore actually wins.."

Shivi nods – excited.

Hridhaan – " but wait...guys...why is ASR walking back to Fine leg himself? As in wouldn't it be easier for him to adjust the field around if he stayed in the 30-yard circle..."

I bite back my smile – again. Shivi rolls her eyes again at Hridhaan – " bhai, really? again? are you sure you still want to pursue POLO professionally or get on the cricket pitch now.."

We all laugh, and Hridhaan hugs Shivi happily – " my little sister, you know I love cricket, but I still love Polo more, so yeah...its still going to be my horses, and the mallet for me.."

Vikram grins – " for me as well...and I think ASR's fielding position isn't a thing to worry about, he's super active in the field always Hridhaan, he can surely readjust the field from anywhere..."

I turn around to everyone as I say – " okk guys, cmon..lets focus on watching the game now..."

I cross my Fingers, and straighten up in position on the bench.

Ravi bowls the first ball of the over, and Jess says, by observing his walk up – "I think he's going to go for the slow ball varying his pace..."

I nod – "I think so too."

He Does just that.

Veer is on strike, and he immediately fires up the ball in a pull shot for a Six. And I clutch onto Jess's hand nervously as we see the ball go up in the air, towards the boundary line , and right then we see, Arnav jump up into the air a little sideways, from his fine leg position, as he literally takes a flying catch by hoisting his right hand in the air, and even though he falls on the ground, sideways now, the ball does not leave his hand.

He's caught it – Clean!!

OMG – Guys. Veer is OUT!

We all erupt into cheers as most of the Stadium around us, goes into a Stun Daze, as the Umpire's on field give it out and the third umpire , is rolling up the images of Arnav's foot work near the boundary to make sure, his feet haven't touched the boundary line.

It surely hasn't!The Third Umpire Confirms – Veer's wicket.

Shivi grins – " great guys, ASR' is surely getting a new nickname tonight...which is Superman...you know since that catch was surely like a Superman flying catch.."

We all share a warm laugh and my Heart glows in so much Happiness for Arnav. And all of us watch in sheer Glee, as the Bangalore teams gets into a round of celebration on the field in sheer Happiness, for a wicket obviously also means a dot ball. Mumbai now need 21 runs in 11 balls and they are 170 -5.

A couple od seconds later, the new batsmen comes on crease, in place of Veer, and Ravi bowls the second ball, and he gets a quick single to get Kolard on strike. Mumbai need 20 runs in 10 balls.

Ok I am back to being, Super Nervous, for he can surely hit Big Shots. Arnav's still on the Fine Leg – position.

Ravi bowls a killer delivery and Kolard tries to go in for the Reverse Sweep, and Ravi immediately calls out for OUT, in LBW again. The Umpire gives it Not Out.

Hmmm.But it does look like, it really was a close Call.

Hridhaan's voice falls in my ears – " there you go, ASR coming in from fine leg to discuss with Ravi if they should take the DRS...I think he will.."

I say immediately – " yes I think so too..they have one remaining.."

Jess nods – " only apt.."

Shivi – " there he goes, taking the DRS, good decision, I think Kolard is out...he doesn't look very sure himself.."

We all wait in anticipation for the result,and as Shivi anticipated – the result on the board reads – OUT!

We all jump up in Happiness again and start cheering for Bangalore loudly. The Game's just turned in Bangalore's favour. Please note guys, I am on the verge of loosing out on my voice for sure ya, I mean I surely have screamed my lungs out in the first innings as Arnav batted so beautifully. And his boundaries were all Like Holy Moly – 7 fours, and 1 six too, and ofcourse the speed with which he and DB run in between the wickets is killer Insane.

Apologies dear Lungs, for exerting you so much Today. I hope you are okay, though. I hear my Lungs say – Don't worry K, we are so very excited ourselves, hence we gave you all that extra stamina to scream out and cheer. My lips Chip in,sulking as they say to my Lungs, scowling – How about you save some of your stamina for us tonight as well dear lungs, or right when we will be in the middle of a deep kiss with Arnav, you will send us a urgent requisition for oxygen and ask us to break away and act like such a SpoilSport for Us.

Jeezzzz dear Insides, can you not remind me off that right now, this is not the time to go for a ride into Dreamy ArnavLand. Dear mind and heart, please take control please, and let me focus on watching the game, and send out all wishes to Arnav imaginarily.This is super important to him...you all know that. I hear my Mind and Heart say in unsion – Yes, we know that K. Let's focus on the game, indeed. We have a feeling now as Ravi's just bowled the last two balls as Dots too and Mumbai need 19 runs in 6 balls , that – we shall be seeing Arnav and the Bangalore team, holding that trophy tonight, for Real.

I smile to myself as I see Stan coming in to bowl the last over now, and Jess clutches onto my arm happily and Shivi clutches to the other one, excited too as she says – " god, what a over that was for Ravi, ASR did the perfect thing by giving him that over 2 runs off it and 2 major wickets...and he wins the purple Cap too...and look Stans bowled a perfect yorker, another dot...isn't this amazing??"

I nod as I say to Shivi hugging her happily to my side – " yes Shivi, its amazing, indeed..."

I say to My Insides, happily, as I feel my eyes well up with Happy tears in anticipation. I guess you are right dear Heart and Mind, the probabilities of Bangalore holding that Cup, high in the Air, are quite a bit now. About time for them isn't it, the team's been waiting to win the IPL for Bangalore, for a long long time. I am like so very Happy for Arnav in my Heart for Real- guys, I think I might just have to be hiding my happy tears when I actually see him, celebrate the Victory.

My Insides say in Unison – "Oh Yes K, the eyes will get all pooled up with happy tears for sure, in such a scenario..."

And right then, we all see Stan bowl in a killer delivery again, which clean bowls the new batsman on the crease. Mumbai still needs 19 runs for the win in just 4 balls.The majority of Stadium's is in a silent daze, and in my head, I am like super sure that every Bangalore, fan will be dancing in pure joy behind their TV/phone/tablet screens just now, just like we all are in the Stadium, waving our flags, hooting and cheering – and I take all power from my Lungs, going all crazy with Jess and Shivi as we see the next three balls, go for quick singles.And Mumbai need 16 runs in 1 ball – for the win – which means that Bangalore's won!!!!

Some of the Mumbai fan's who are disappointed start to leave the stadium. I know how – because its all getting blowed up on Screen everyoneee!!! And a couple of fans around us, start leaving too.

Pure Joy, grips my heart as I catch onto Arnav's frame on the field , for he's grinning to himself as the last ball gets bowled, which goes for just a Single again, and the Game's Done!!!!!!!

BANGALORE – WON THE FREAKING IPL GUYSSSSSSSSSS!!!!

LIKE FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER!!!

Yup. I am really onto fighting and hiding – Happy Tears – for Real.

Amidst our jumping and hooting in Happiness, we spot the Bangalore team get into a killer celebration on the field, as they all literally topple and jump on top of one another. I chuckle to myself as Arnav's and the teams happy and gleeful expressions are being blown up on screen too, and the announcers are announcing Bangalore's win of the IPL , in a grand announcement through the stadium as well.

I hear Shivi say, hoarsely in between the hooting – " Khushi, I am surely going to loose my voice maybe..but never mind...who cares..."

I chuckle as I say – " me too.."

Jess – " me three..."

Vikram says – " and since we are staying at the Hotel, I am surely finidng a way for us to get into the afterparty, so that my dearest Shivi can meet and congratulate, all the players...hridhaan, lets figure something out?"

Hridhaan nods – " yes we surely can pulls some strings, The GM at Trident , is a friend of the GM at our hotel back in Jaipur. I will just get in touch with him on whatsapp, to see if he can help us arrange something by getting in touch with the GM at trident.."

Shivi – " bhai, you are like the bestest for sure..."

Jess gives me a playful wink.

Ok Guys – if Hridhaan and Vikram are able to arrange for us, to get into the afterparty. Then it's surely going to be a huge surprise for Arnav, from my end, for sure. As in- but wait – how about if I don't tell him about it, until I actually enter the Afterparty??? My Insides Hurray in collective Unsion – Omg Yes, don't tell him.Surprise Him.That would be Epic K.

I am grinning ot myself as I continue to keep my eye out for Arnav's frame on the field amidst celebrations, that our all finishing up on the field, as the player's from both the teams are now shaking hands, and congratulating one another, and I can't help but smile even wider, as I spot Rohan and Arnav, hug one another on the Field.

Right then, my eyes go to the screen on the stadium and I spot Akash, Payal, Noor, Samaira, Cap – smiling amongst themselves, as they are all on their feet as well – Clapping for both the teams, along with everyone else in the family box – for the Excellent Game of Cricket. Noor's grin is the widest for sure, as in I am sure she is super excited because of Ravi's second last bowling spell, that eventually turned the game in Bangalore's favour. Akash is amidst his High-Fives session with a lot of people in the box, as they are congratulating him too.He's obviously been super supportive of Arnav – always too, all through these years, through every low in the IPL, I am aware, so the Happiness on his face is clearly a reflection of how Happy he is in his heart for Arnav today as well.

Right then my phone starts pinging in my pocket and I know its not going to be Arnav – yet, for obviously he is still all busy on the field in front of me. I quickly check my phone.

Its Anjali and Bhai, pinging me on Whtsapp now. I chuckle to myself as I get into a quick chat with the two of them, as I get consumed with the emotion off – Happiness*Infinity.

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ARNAV'S POV

Guys.

Remember, how I had that Feeling in my Heart before the Game, earlier today that -TONIGHT'S GOING TO BE A GOOD NIGHT, irrespective the result?? Because My Sparkle was Here.Turns Out – that my Gut was right about the Same indeed. For Tonight's turned out to be a Good Good Night – indeed. Both Game Wise and Heart Wise.

– We WON!!!!!!

We Won the Freaking IPL, for the first time ever. I can't believe that I am experiencing the euphoric gaming moment for Real – wherein we are all posing, and celebrating amongst ourselves against the Champion board on the field with the IPL trophy. We just finished with the post-match and tournament presentations and everything, about five minutes ago and I obviously couldn't stop grinning in the interview as well, and I did get a little happily overwhelmed as I admitted to the world on Mike – that the Victory feels very sweet in my heart Indeed, obviously because as a team, we have waited for it for a long time as we have gone through a roller coaster of gaming ups and down's in all these years as a franchise, and there have been couple of seasons, where we've gotten so very close to play the finals, but ended up being the Runner- Up's so it obviously felt Surreal to us as a Team to Have crossed the Line this time. I obviously also, thanked our amazing fans who've always been there for us, come victory or loss all these years, our support teams, coaches, and everyone for all their hard work and never- ending support to us as well, in the speech.

And now amidst, all this Happy Celebration – all I can think off is my family, friends and Sparkle, and as to how I just can't wait to catch up with everyone first briefly and then reach the dressing room, and get my phone on, so that I can talk to My Sparkle. I can totally imagine the Happy expressions dancing on her face, right now. I am also sure, that I am going to have Mom, Dad and Anjali's calls awaiting the missed call list too by the time I actually get to the dressing room. Dadi might just be awake too.

As we all finish posing for the major pictures, for the camera's and it looks to me that the boys are still going to be super busy in celebrations on field, for a couple of more minutes, I finally start to make my way out the field, along with most of our support teams, and Coaches, as we get consumed in the happiness of victory and I just thank them all, over and over again, personally for all their extended support to us all, players and team in the background. Their hardwork, dedication and support to the team – is what kept us Fuelled and Motivated, throughout the tournament as a Unit.

As we all take up the stairs in, I instantly spot – Akash, Payal, Noor, Samaira, and Cap standing there, and I instantly walk up to them grinning and am pulled into a big brotherly hug by Akash almost immediately as he says – " Finally Bhai..finally! I am so happy for you..i know youv waited for this moment for a long time...Dad , Mom, Anjali are going all beserk in happiness, do call them the minute you switch on the phone, dadi is awake too..."

I hug him back happily as I say – " is she? I figured in my head, she would be and yes , finally Akash, finally,after all this while...finally indeed...thank you so much brother, for everything...you'v always been there..."

Akash pulls back and grins – " oh please bhai, it's you who'v been like like a pillar of support to both me and Anj, at every step...so please you are not allowed to say thank you to me" and he winks playfully and adds – " please tell me, we are all going to party until the wee hours of the morning now, you know since we only fly back to Delhi late evening tomorrow....this calls for a huge celebration indeed..."

I grin and hug him back briefly again – " yes, we will..for sure.."

I greet Payal now and she says – " congratulations so much bhai..so happy for you..."(She calls me bhai too)

I grin – " thank you so much Payal..."

Payal chuckles – " bhai, these Mumbai vs Bangalore matches are way too hectic for me, since I am like all torn between Rohan bhai and you..thats why I am so conflicted in the IPL...and all cool and calm when you all play as the Men in Blue, because then it's just me cheering on for you all together.."

We all chuckle and I say – " I understand exactly what you mean Payal.."

I Hug Cap next, as he says – "congratulations Arnav, that my brother, was an excellent final game indeed, that I enjoyed the hell out off, the first innings was really commendable, 190 plus runs on the board for a chase in the finals, is obviously a high target...we just met Rohan, Veer and some more players from the Mumbai team, and Rohan did say the same to us, the mumbai teams in the dressing room already getting ready to leave for the hotel..."

I pull back from the hug as I say – " I had a little chat with him on the ground as well, and he was being a little hard on himself after the loss, for playing that shot cheekily to first slip that cost him his wicket which ended up being a huge advantage for us, and we obviously discussed the moment of the game out for a couple of minutes, amongst ourselves , and I did tell him not to be too hard on himself, for it, he was all okay then.."and I look at Samaira as I ask her – " he's okay right? you spoke to him?

Samaira grins as she side hugs me and I hug her back – " congratulations on that amazing win Arnav...yes he is okay as in you know how the little game momentum and emotions transition over for a couple of minutes...you all are so used to it, I am sure he's going to be the one enjoying the afterparty the most, once we get to the hotel..he's truly happy for you...and it was a kickass game of cricket nonetheless.."

I nod and smile at her– " I know he is..." and I hug Noor, whose got her eyes out the enterance door, waiting for Ravi to come in and I say to her – " go on, and wait by the door...don't worry, I understand..."

Noor chuckles as she hugs me – " thank you bhai...congratulations on the amazing win...and yes now I need to go and stand by the door, so that my eyes can spot Ravi...when will the boys stop celebrating on the field and come in.."

Akash chips in happily – "I think there would be a couple of more minutes to that still Noor.."

Noor looks at Akash and Payal – "and will the two of you come with me to the entrance as in lets go down the stairs and get near the field a little, that way I can meet Ravi the minute he steps off the ground to make his way here.."

Akash and Payal nod and say in unison – " ofcourse Noor..,"and they gesture to me that they will be back soon and I nod at them and they make their way to the door.

Cap says now,– " you won't believe how we were all smiling to ourselves as you caught out, both Rohan and Veer in the field today...I mean we knew for sure, that the two of them are going to corner you a little over the same in the afterparty after a couple of drinks down..."

I chuckle – "oh yes, I know that for sure..".

Samaira chuckles as she adds – " a couple of drinks Cap? I think one drink down and Rohan will be like, where's one of my bestest buddy ASR, and he shall go on with that song with which all of you take each other's cases with after wins and losses in the IPL..."

Cap chuckles and adds – " oh yes, our good old number - dost, dost, na raha..."

We all share a warm laugh and my eyes fall of the glass window, as I finally spot the rest of my team making their way off the ground now, and I smile to myself, as I spot Ravi, running his way up ahead everyone.

I wink to Cap and Samaira as I say – " im sure He's spotted Noor out there finally..."

Samaira chuckles – " yes that's surely the reason why he is running his way up ahead.."

I can't wait to talk to My Sparkle, now. Has she left the stadium?

I look at Cap and Samaira and say now – " ok guys,I am heading to the dressing room.."

Cap nods – " yes do that, we all will leave first and catch up with you all at the Hotel..after..ok?"

I nod and hug both Cap and Samaira, one more time and I make my way into the dressing room, in quick strides, and get to my locker first thing and I switch on my phone, and go to Whatsapp immediately and open it up and start to read the Texts – Khushi's left for me. There are obviously about so many of them, that she's left me as and when during the first innings of my Batting too. I chuckle as she's sent me like a line of hearts after every boundary I fired today, and a lot more. I shall give a glimpse into a couple of them.

1. That drive was so beautiful that I could watch you play it all day and Night.

2. That Six went so far into the SkY..Arnav...like I think, it reached that height of how high the Yo-YO goes on in my insides, all thanks to You.

3. Dude, what a quick double that was in between the wickets Skipper Blue. I need some tips and tricks on building up more stamina.

4. Oh My God – did you just run , for three runs in between the wickets, in the last over, when the ball just went a little behind short fine leg????and you make It seem so easy. You know what my Lungs are all like – hmmmm K, see now you know how he has more stamina to hold up on his oxygen intake for longer, when we kiss(hearts).You better ask him for tips on the same, I mean is there some special breathing exercise that he does?

5. Holy Moly Arnav – what a innings it was from both you and DB. Please note I am on the verge of loosing my voice for Real. That's precisely how much I have screamed. You guys are going to totally defend this Score. I just know it in my Heart. Ok, now as it's the innings break, we are all heading to catch up on eating a few snacks and stuff. Hridhaan and Vikram are also truly enjoying this near to the stand experience for Real Arnav and shivi, jess and me are all like – we told you guys. The VIP Box is no FUN.Haha.

I continue to smile like an Idiot as I go on to read the rest of the texts she's also left as the Second Innings began and through it, and my eyes now fall on the second last one, which came as we Won the Game!

Khushi's text to me at 1130 pm : Ok Ok OMGGGGGGGGGGGG ARNAV!!!!!! I AM SO SO SO SO FREAKING HAPPY FOR YOUUUUU!!! BANGALORE WON THE IPL!!!! Please note that I am writing this message to as Jess is covering me up as we are all going mad in celebration in the Stands. Haha...like you won't believe these, the Mumbai fans who stayed back in our stand, were initially scowling at us all ok? but now seeing you all celebrating on the field, it's like they are all smiling a little as well. And please don't even ask about how my Dearest eyes have pooled up with Happy tears, which I am obviously trying to mask, because well I am with everyoneeeeeeee!!!!! I AM SO SO SO SO HAPPY FOR YOUUUUU YA...ok, now excuse me dear Stranger, I gotta return my attention to feasting my eyes upon the very peaceful sight of seeing my someone very special, celebrate his victory on the field, with the rest of the team.( Heartssss)

Khushi's text to me at 1135 PM : hey you...my noise cancelling headphones..asked Jess to cover me up, again..so that I could text this little line out to you. You know what? Shivi and Jess are literally posting up a Meme on Insta, snapping a pic off all of your celebrations and captaioning it as – Played Bold and Won the Gold!! Haha!! Shivi came up with this caption , like before the start of the second last over. She say's shes going to circulate it all over on Whtspp too.So Happy for you once again. Ok returning my attention to my Stranger on field now, for I guess the postmatch/tournament presentation is about to begin soon. Not going to take my eyes Off You. Dearest eyes are in the middle of the session of an Imaginary Scuba Dive. Haha. Will be waiting for you text Arnavvvvv...I know it will come much later though, after you get to the dressing room. Also yes, I can totally see Akash all grinning on the screen too. I do need to thank him again for pretending to not know me at all, as he did spot me in the lobby as we were leaving for the stadium. Okk..tata..abhi ke liye..i am obviously not leaving the stadium, until I see you lift the cup and pose against the Champion Board and everything(hearts)(happy dance) or wait..make that happy rock concert – Back On. Once again – Super Congratulations* Infinity.

It's past Midnight now.

I quickly text Khushi.

Me : hey you Sparkleee...thank you so much for your wishes...I am so happy at the moment – ofcourse. Just got to the dressing room and switched on my phone. Loved reading your lovely messages, and was obviously grinning like an idiot to myself while I was at it. The rest of the boys are yet to come into the dressing room. Where are you? have you left the Stadium??

My phone beeps in ten seconds.

Her : heyyyy youuuuuuuuuu Mr.IPL winner...I am so so so excited and Happy for You!! and that was such an amazing post-match interview and everything, Arnav. Like I am in Awe over how you are so humble and kind in victory as well. Absolutely loved the way you expressed your gratitude towards everyone. And yes, we are all making our way out now, its obviously very crowded going to take us a while to get into the car....i am sure there is going to be a little celebration in the dressing room, first, which will continue into the afterparty at the hotel...please enjoy yourself ache se ok...as in I know you've been waiting to experience this moment from a long long time na..(hearts)

Me: thank you Sparkle. I will only stay in the afterparty for a bit, and then I will sneak up to meet you. My Celebration is obviously going to be incomplete without you, and you know that...

I tap send. And just as I am waiting for her reply, I type out, excited.

Me: come to the afterparty??? Please?? Don't worry, I will keep the pretend mode fully on – again.

Her : I'd love to Arnav, you know that..but you know it's impossible yaa..i am so sorry...also Shivi, Jess, and Me plan to chill out for a bit in my room as we reach the Hotel, ya...you please enjoy the afterparty with everyone na..ill be waiting up for you..as in I won't sleep until we meet, obviously...you aren't mad at me for this right?

I reply honestly : no Sparkle, you know I would never be mad at you. I understand, don't worry about it. I shall try to make my way out of the party soon too and see you soon, for sure...can't wait..

Her : Can't wait too, obviously yaaaaaaa. Also, wait..you spoke to everyone? As in uncle , aunty, dadi, Anjali? I am sure you have like tons of missed calls from them too.

Me : yes I do, but haven't spoken to them yet Sparkle.

Her : ohh...please dooo...uff ya stupid, silly me.. why can't I stop texting you? acha you please talk to everyone pehle now? K? I am sure they are all excited to congratulate you as well. Lets text later...tata...for nowwwwwwwww....(hearts)

Me : ok Sparkle...ill text you from the team bus.

Her : okiesss...also we are getting into the Car now.

I grin to myself, as I spot the rest of the boys making their way into the dressing room, hooting and cheering as the celebrations continue amongst the team – and I enjoy with them all a little and high five everyone again, and then walk over to the side a while later, to connect with everyone back home. I call up Mom, Dad and Dadi first. Will Call Anjali and Rahul after.

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

One Hour Later @ The Afterparty in a Banquet at the Hotel

Arnav POV Continues

I grin at Rohan and Veer as they are on either of my sides, with their hands around my shoulder, and they are going on with just one sentence on repeat, as they are trying to sing it out – " Dost, dost na raha.."

Samaira chuckles happily as she says to Cap – " I told you na Cap, not even a couple of drinks were needed, apparently not even one..these two have started out in half a drink only.."and she adds happily grinning as she says to Rohan, with a playful wink – " and you better stick to that first bit only Ro, and not go on with saying pyaar pyaar na raha...because I wasn't the one who got you out on the field today ok? it was your best buddies.."

Rohan winks and grins and says – " yes ofcourse Samaira, why do you think I am only sticking to Dost dost na raha..."and he pats my arm and narrows his eyes at me playfully – " where is Ravi..call him too,after he is the one who bowled the over and you caught it..."

Veer chuckles and pats my arm too – " exactly Rohan.."and they both look at Cap and say in unison – " these two of knew exactly what shot they wanted to set up both Veer and me into playing,"

Cap chuckles and says – " one of the many advantages we all have, because of the way we have all known each other, on field, and off field..i thoroughly enjoyed myself gentlemen..ask Samaira, Akash, payal and Noor...or Singh.."

I chuckle as I add, hugging onto Veer and Rohan – " guys, you have to stick to singing the song to me only for now, for Ravi is busy with Noor dancing, on the dance floor, next to Akash and Payal..and Singh and the rest of the boys from both are teams are actually going all beserk on the floor too..its only us here, by the bar's side right now..."

Samaira grins and says to Rohan – " Ro, cmon..lets get some dancing done, its also going to be time for the cake cutting by Bangalore team soon after.."

I nod – " yes, the support staff did hint me about fifteen minutes ago that they will be getting on with that at around 130..and its 115 now.."

Rohan winks at Samaira – " ok my love, lets go.."and he turns to hug me and says – " jokes apart Arnav, I am very happy for you...now cmon join us on the dance floor.."

I nod , hugging him back – " I know you are...you guys carry on, ill join you in a bit,"

Veer hugs me and congratulates me on the win once again, and I hug him back happily too and the two of them walk with Samaira to join everyone else in celebrations on the dance floor.

Cap looks at me as he feels his phone in his pocket and says gesturing to me – " Arnav..ill be steeping out to talk to Sachi, for a bit..ill join you all soon..ok???"

I nod at him – happily, and he makes his way out. I turn to the bartender and ask him for one Cuba Libre.

Guys, to be honest – I can't wait for the Cake Cutting bit to be over, so that I can actually sneak out off here to meet my Sparkle, whilst everyone's busy on the dance floor after. My Celebrations will only be complete then.( She is in the room , chilling with Jess, and Shivani – we obviously got into a little chat as I reached the Hotel)

I am right on that thought when I feel my phone beep.

It's Her.

Her : (A line of Hearts)

Me : Sparkle. I can't wait to see you..will be done with the cake cutting by like 130 and will sneak up soon after.

Her : I can't wait to see you too.(hearts) also I have something to ask you...as in its strange but I don't think, I ever asked you this ya Arnav..how silly of me, now cmon you better answer this like jaldi se..i am telling you..you only have like 5 seconds to answer thike?

I chuckle as I read that, as the Bartender hands me my drink now, and I thank him for the same, and take a sip off it, and place the glass back on the counter and lean against it as I reply

Me : ok noted Sparkle...what is it that you want to ask???

Her : The High Courts + the Supreme court of the Hearts are very interested to know your answer to this question - Do you like Surprises??

I chuckle to myself as I reply.

Me : of course I do like surprises Sparkle.

Her : ok they just made a sudden correction to the question – do you love Surprises? Or that depends on what the Surprise actually turns out to be?

I take another sip of my drink.

Me : yup you are right, Sparkle. That obviously depends on what the Surprise actually is.

Her : okkkiesss...then do you love this one?

Me : Huh??

Her : Look up, from your phone, will you please?? In one seconds thike? Like towards the entrance of the banquet where your afterparty is being held..

I look up instantly from my phone towards the entrance – and my Heart literally stops beating in Happiness for sure, as I Spot my Sparkle, walking into the Afterparty, along with Jess, Shivi, Hridhaan and Vikram.

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

She CAMEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!

I smile to myself as I spot her eyes, searching the crowd from near the entrance, as Vikram, Hridhaan, Shivi and Jess, are busy talking amongst themselves and she is pretending to be listening to them as they are making their way in.

I know that her Eyes are searching for me – obviously. I quickly text back – my heartbeats pacing at the speed of light.

Me : I am seeing you. It's you right? or am I so crazy that I am hallucinating. You came? For real? Godammit You. #IlovethisSurprise Sparkle.

I tap send – grinning.

Her : I am sooo glad you doooooo(hearts) haha...very funny you are not hallucinating thike..it is me only...I just wanted to surprise you that is why I didn't tell you that Hridhaan and Vikram were figuring out a way to pull some strings to get us into the afterparty the minute you all won the game!! why can't I spot you around? Where are you? not fair ya...you saw me, but I can't spot you yet...i do spot mostly everyone dancing away in celebration on the dance floor..

Me : I am right at the back towards where the bar area is. Look to a little your sideways left- right at the back...I can't believe you Camee!!

I tap send.And a second later, I see Khushi look up in my direction and our eyes lock from across the hall, for a brief second, and she bites back on her smile and looks away the very next second and starts to type out something in her phone. I know she is texting me.

Phone beeps.

Her : sooo difficult for me to look away from your gaze ya..but remember...pakka se pretend mode on, and yes Jess and me have decided that we will only meet up with all the team players, alongside shivi, Hridhaan and Vikram as in if they bump into them and everything, and we are not going to talk about us being cricketers. I told Hridhaan, Shivi and Vikram also not to mention it to anyone, as in we told them that we obviously want to be introduced to you all players professionally on the ground, alongside our team of women cricketers and not like because we could attend this afterparty by chance.They understood – obviously. And also as you told me, that Cap already caught onto the hint that I am a cricketer..so..yes..he will connect the dots na then..also yes I did text Anjali to text the same to Akash and You – that I will be entering the party, with everyone else – so Pretend to not know me Mode – On.

Yup.She's right. My phone just also beeped with anjali's text on the same.

I grin as I reply : Yup. Just received Anjali's text on the same. No worries Sparkle. I understand...don't worry about it. I am so happy that you came and I get to see you from afar..look up my way one more time please.

I look up from my phone as I tap send, and I see Khushi, mingling with Jess, Hridhaan, Shivi and Vikram – around.

Khushi looks backwards my way, pretending to be in conversation with the rest of them and our eyes lock briefly from across, as I wink at her playfully, taking another sip of my drink, and her eyes widen adorably innocently and she quickly looks away and turns around and resumes talking to everyone around her.

My phone beeps.

Her : hawwwwwwwwww!! No cheating..pleaseee, like its so difficult for me to bite back my smile already....now if you will wink like this, then what will I do ya..Arnav..pleasee....pretty pleaseeeeeeeee....(hearts)

I chuckle as I read that. Right then one of our support team member gestures to me from afar that the cake cutting arrangements were ready. I nod at him and gesture him that I will be joinging everyone on the dance floor in a second. I quickly text Khushi

Me : Sparkle, you came just in time. The arrangements for the cake cutting celebrations are all set. I am making a way to the dance floor to join everyone which is where, the trolley with the cake will be rolled in. Please promise me to find a way to come stand somewhere upfront that space, so that I can atleast see you outa the corner of my eye, as I cut the cake along with the rest of the team..

I tap send make my way to join everyone.

Phone beeps.

Her : Promiseeee I will find a way to stand somewhere up close in the front with everyone, so that you can see me....like pakka se* infinity wala promiseee...now cmonnn you carry on with the celebrations..i am right here only...

Me : thank you so much for coming Sparkleeeee, it means a lot to me...you know that don't you?

Her : I know..its means a lot to me to be able to see you celebrate these moments with you entire team,support team, friends and family, Arnav...(hearts) now cmon...don't text. See you are almost reaching everyoneeee...

I keep my phone in now – grinning, as I join in everyone in the celebrations, cheering and hooting on the dance floor, as the huge cakes being rolled in on the trolley now.

This AFterParty Just got Super Interesting everyone.

Or rather I should say – BESTEST AFTERPARTY EVER!

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

3:30 AM – KHUSHI'S ROOM

KHUSHI'S POV

YO -YO* INFINITY*INFINITY*INFINITY

Yup Guys – that's exactly the magnitude of the Yo-Yo's in the pit of Stomach, as I am pacing around my room nervously – in happy anticipation (just like I was in the afternoon), waiting for Arnav.

He will be here any second, actually, for Jess obviously texted me, when he stepped out the elevator on our floor. He's currently walking here to my room. We all left the afterparty by around 3ish. We all as in Shivi, Jess, Hridhaan, Vikram and Me. Arnav sneaked out of the party about fifteen minutes after us – as everyone was still busy in the party and celebrations.

Phone beeps.

Jess : Khushi..open up! Sb is reaching in a twenty seconds. Its his lucky day, surely because well the corridor was all empty again.Just give me a buzz on the landline, when you want me to help him sneak out.k? don't worry about disturbing my sleep or something. I will catch up on the remainder of it, in our transit time tomorrow back to Delhi..

Me : thanks* infinity Jess. you are simply the best ya...

Jess : I know, I know... but the afterparty was the best part of the day for me, like even more than Bangalore's win, I mean the way the two of you were in pretend mode, as total strangers, in all the group selfies, that we got with the players along with Shivi, Hridhaan and Vikram...as if it were all a normal fans to cricketer encounter. Like Haha. Do you have any idea how hard it was me to control my laugh..acha lets talk this out later, tomorrow...he's there at your door now..

I quickly fling my phone on the bed, and walk to my door to fling it open. And Just as I do, I spot Arnav standing there, all changed and refreshed into his tracks and tee, and I grin as I gesture him to get in and he does so immediately, as I close the door behind us now. And just as I do that, he pushes me back against the door,( just like he had caged me this afternoon against the door within his frame),and whisper's cupping my face, looking intently into my eyes, grinning – " trust me Sparkle, while I was walking here, I was hoping in my head, that I'd get a chance to see you in this – Eat-Sleep-Cricket-Repeat blue tee that you wear for the night so very often, you know since I'v seen it so many times on video call..."

I chuckle as I look down at casual round neck tee and black tracks and look back to look into his eyes a second later, rolling my eyes mischievously – " well, yes, it is one of my favourite tees to wear to sleep in the night...you already know that..."

He keeps his forhead on mine, and rubs his thumb on my cheek, slowly and I hug him instantly as I say – " well, I know iv said it already, but just had to say this again ya...like in real time...congratulations on the amazing win, Arnav...it was a wonderful game...and I am so so so happy for you..and also thank you for being in like super pretend mode, at the afterparty......"and I pull back instantly as I take him by the hand to the window of my room and say excitedly – " cmon in, I want to show you something...the view out from my window at the marine drive is so amazing..." and I open the curtains and look out the night view with all lights glistening over the Marine Drive and sigh happily – " It's so beautiful, isn't it?? I mean just look at all those lights Sparkling up the night.."

Arnav wraps his arms around my waist from behind, hugging me close as he rests his chin on my shoulder and whispers in my ears – " it's gorgeous, for sure, but its not the view I am talking about Sparkle.."

I chuckle as I lean back into his warm hug and tighten my hold on his arms around me – " aahaan...really??"

I tremble as I feel him place a soft kiss on the side of my neck from behind, shifting my open messy hair to my side and he says, softly – " yes...really...you light up my life with a lot more magnitude than all the lights in the world, combined Sparkle.."

I admit honestly – " usually, my insides are all like uber excited, whenever you are this close to me, as in there are obviously so many thoughts in my head, you know like how I am flying in the hot air balloon etc etc...but right now, there's none..."

He asks, softly – " and why is that Sparkle..?"

I admit – " can I say this out loud to you, without turning to look at you as in, you can anyway see a little bit of my reflection in the window glass right??"

Arnav nods as he places another soft kiss on my ear – " yes Sparkle, go on..i can still you very clearly in our reflection in the window glass..but I need to keep kissing your neckline though..okay??"

I nod as I shiver – " ahaan...more than just okay.."and for a second I am lost, as I feel his lips trail down soft, deep kisses on my neck and I just feel myself lean back more comfortably into his arms, and tilt my head to rest on his other shoulder to give him all the access he needs to drive me into his Trans, but because I do want to say this out loud to him, I admit honestly , keeping my eyes closed – " I think all of my collective insides are in a collective daze, Arnav...ever since this something happened at the afterparty,as in, I never knew I would discover this within my self...but I guess I did..and I obviously want to tell you all about it.."

Arnav shifts my hair to the other side and continues to trail down kisses on the other side of my neckline and he whispers in my ears, softly – " go on..i am listening Sparkle...just need to keep kissing you here as well simultaneously.."

I admit honestly – " all of my insides are in a collective daze, ever since I realised in the afterparty that it turns out that I do have this uber possessive streak in me, when it comes to you, as in atleast when I am like around you in real time, that's the only reason why I literally pretended to be so clumsy on the dance floor as Shivi,Jess, Hridhaan, Vikram and me were dancing in a group and stepped on one of those gorgeous girls feet on purpose so hard, because I overheard her talking to her friend that she was going to try to make her way to the other side of the floor and try to steal a moment to dance around you, or with you..and well because of the way I stepped on her feet,the drink that was in her hand, did end up splashing over her clothes a little too, and she obviously walked out the floor first, cursing me for my clumsiness, even though I apologized so very politely...but its like in my heart na...I really didn't mean the apology completely, as in I was a little happy that she walked off the floor and that Distracted her plan of hovering around you for a bit..."

That makes Arnav turn me around in an instant as he says, grinning, cupping my face – "wait what?????? please say that again????"

I admit, chuckling over my foolishness, a little, as I cup his face – " yes...you heard me right, see now you know what I mean, when I say that I need to sign that self -declaration form ya...I am going crazy for Real, and it's all your fault.." and I tiptoe on my toes and keep my forehead on his as I admit – " I'v never felt all of these things ever before, Arnav...like never...its new, and as overwhelming it feels to discover all these new emotions within me everyday because of you, its so sweet as well...I really love what I am feeling..."

He immediately fists his hand through my hair tight and makes me look up into his eyes and says – " I really love what I feel too, Sparkle, and you need to know that this one time, when you texted me that you were going to the bar to get yourself some coke, I thought I spotted this one guy, trying to walk up behind you, with the wish of wanting to talk to you maybe, because well I'd obviously spotted him eyeing you every now and then...and I purposely wedged in between his way, so that he'd get distracted by my presence around and not follow you...and I was glad that he was a fan of my game, so he obviously got all busy congratulating me for the win...it's you who are turning me crazy* infinity.....catch up on that breath all you want dammit, because the minute I start to kiss you now, I am not going to stop for a long time.."

I grin at that as I ask – " really??"

He nods and before I know it, I am whisked in his arms as he walks us to the sofa and I wrap my hands around his neck and he asks, taking his seat on the sofa, and placing me on his lap – " this okay?"

I nod and he asks – " are we disturbing Jess too much? As in when I leave in a bit...?"

I lace my hands through his hair and voice out honestly what I want – " you can stay here, longer Arnav..as in..I don't want you to leave soon...as in please stay until about 630-7am, atleast.."

Arnav cups my face tenderly and looks into my eyes and asks – " are you sure?? I don't want you to be uncomfortable Sparkle.."

I kiss his forhead – " I wouldn't have asked you to stay If I was uncomfortable Arnav, I am not...I just want to spend some time with just you, right now...just US..i want to keep talking to you...also practice on a lot of kissing too, you know to improvise, more and more..also my dear lungs need that tip from you...as well...you know since your oxygen back up works much better than mine.."

We share a warm chuckle instantly as I say that and he says cupping my face tenderly – " you don't need to improvise at all, Sparkle...it's perfect for me.."

He kisses my cheek and I admit, hugging him hard – " you make me so happy...and I just feel like that you keep hitting these sixes on this imaginary 22 yards pitch, in between our hearts...making me feel so much and all at once...that i...i..." and before I can even complete my sentence,Arnav pulls me back a little and closes his lips over mine, in an urgent deep kiss, and I feel myself start to respond to his kiss, with equal urgency as he pushes me back into the sofa now and wraps his one arm around my waist tight, pulling me closer into his frame and my legs act on their own accord, again as they wrap themselves around his waist, as we continue to kiss each other way too intensely and passionately.

About many heated minutes later of us kissing each other Insane, i feel Arnav break away from our kiss and he says – " open your eyes, please, and look into mine?"

I do.

I am TRANS-ed * Infinity.

He says sincerity shining in his eyes – " you are my batswoman..the only opening batswomen, who shall ever bat on the invisible 22 yards within the walls of my heart...only you have that power to dodge up my emotions into freaking killer Sixes all around the park, or maybe I should say, all high up into the sky's as well...and only you have the power to clean bowl me too...."

I smile as I look into his eyes and caress his cheek – " can I copy your words this time?? As in I hope you don't mind..but its like even though in your playing order you play at no 3...but for me within the 22 yards of my Heart, you are my one and only opening batsmen too...Arnav...and only you have the power to clean bo..." and once again, before I can complete my sentence, I am kissed all hard, urgent, bad and deep.

I can only cling onto him all lost within our intense Moments. Guys, by the way his lips are ravaging mine, I don't think either of us are going to get any more talking tonight. I won't be surprised if we just keep kissing each other this intensely for Hours.

I hear My Lips say in a Hurrah.Well K, I wouldn't mind that at all – actually.It's time for my Afterparty- right now. Totally Exclusively All Mine,also - isn't this like the Bestest Afterparty ever?

I hear all of my Insides Collectively sigh all dreamily, getting lost into the various Mazes of ArnavLand – Oh yes, dear Lips you are totally right about that.This is the Bestest Afterparty – Ever.

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

TADAAAAA!!!!!

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

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

Next Update : Will be on Tuesday now. I hope you all have a lovely Sunday Guyssss!!!

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

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