CHAPTER 46 - COMEBACK!

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CHAPTER 46 – COMEBACK!

TWO MORE MONTHS LATER

6TH OCTOBER, 2020

@TABLE BAY HOTEL - CAPE TOWN - SOUTH AFRICA

NOON

ARNAV'S POV

Nope.

Nope For Sure.

Guys.

I swear to all of my Cricketing Gods above at the moment – that I truly did not Jump Up this High in Glee either in Public or in Private after winning THE ICC CHAMPIONS TROPHY in July OR THE ASIA CUP five weeks ago – alongside my Team!!! I mean Guys – obviously – I do obviously Jump Up and Fist my Hand in the Air in Glee on these monumental occasions in private too, the minute I step into my room all by myself feeling all exhilarated and elated being the part of the Winning Team Squad!

But.

At the Moment – most surely my High Jump + Fist in the Air – Actually beats the height of all my earlier Jumps combined, for Sure.

Why so?

It's because – I can't help but get this excited and worked up as I see My Sparkle up on screen – smashing yet another 50 in her third consecutive World Cup game for India in the ongoing ICC T20 Women's World Cup in Australia!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yup.

Guys.

YOU READ THAT RIGHT.

MY SPARKLE IS PLAYING IN THE WORLD CUP SQAUD AT THE MOMENT!!

And the emotions I am feeling right now at the very sight is BEYOND JUST SURREAL – OBVIOUSLY.

Remember how she was working so very hard during her recovery and practice in order to chase her way towards this very Dream of hers? To Just Play in the World Cup Squad for our country???

Yeah???

I am sure – you all remember. And well I am Delighted*Beyond all of Infinity to be the one to report to you all that not only did she successfully floor all of the selectors with her comeback to her game in the practice sessions making her way back into the Squad as the opener for India Women just in time as the preparations for the WC tournament began – it truly seems like - at the moment – she is currently in the middle of Flooring Every Freaking One – with her Comeback officially during Play on our Beloved 22 Yards – Too.(And if you all thought that My Sparkle Cried out Niagara Falls in Happiness when she first played in the Nets all that while ago at the NCA in Bangalore – I surely think I have no terms to equate the volume of her Happy tears when she heard the news that she made the cut for the World Cup Squad – that she'd be playing the tournament in her position as opener again for India. Or wait- maybe I can say that the volume of her Happy overwhelmed Tears then surely matched the Volumes of All of Waterfalls combined on the planet – maybe?)

Anyways – so what I mean to say by the bit of her Flooring everyone by her Game again officially live from the 22 yards at the moment is – this is only India women's- third game in the Group Stage Pool of Group A where in they are scheduled to play rest of the teams twice in the usual round robin format before the knock-out stage begins and she is already made incredible scores of 60, 55 in the previous two matches too that India Women won against Bangladesh and New Zealand!

I am right on that thought within my head while continuing with my happy jumping and fisting my hand in glee in the air charade when I hear Ravi's elated voice fall in my ears – " Guys...I am sure..we haven't seen our Skipper Jumping up this high in sheer glee when we won the Champions trophy or the Asia cup for that matter too...."

Cap and Rohan chuckle and add in unison – " we couldn't agree more..Ravi..just look at him...he is surely capable of giving our nation's high jump athletes a run for their role at the moment..."

Ok.

Yes.

Guys.

In my crazy Happy Moment – I totally forgot to tell you all that I am not alone in my room actually. Ravi, Cap, Rohan are with me as we are watching the live match up on screen in my Room at our Hotel here in Cape Town, South Africa.

We are on Tour of South Africa at the moment.

I chuckle fisting my fist in the air again totally loving the happy sight of the replay off My Sparkle celebrating her fifty yet again – mid pitch in a long happy hug with Sheena who just celebrated her fifty last over too,(with the team and Support team from the dug outs clapping for her too) , and since my heart is catching onto every bit off the meaning behind her happy body language, I state grinning with my eyes still glued to the screen – " oh come on guys...you know I jumped as high when we won our tournament's too...,"and I pause to just look at them as I state with a wink – " I surely...did.."

They all grin and wink at me in unison – " Oh...no... you didn't...this last jump of your's totally beats our wins jump by 2cm's atleast.."

And we all share a happy laugh and I finally take my seat on the couch and as the end of the over commercial comes into play on TV – and I admit continuing to grin at all – " okay then boys...I admit...my this jump surely was about 2-3cms higher..but guys..you understand don't you?? I mean...this was her freaking fastest fifty ever..like for her very own record too I mean..50 off just 22 balls...how killer were those 3 four's and 4 sixes already...,"and I pause and I add emotions returning to engulf me momentarily – " it feels so good..so freaking good to just see her Play live again...so these days when we talk after a game and she is often speechless with happiness..it's like I totally understand...given that I am only feeling so moved...I mean its totally natural for her to feel it much more right?this is huge for her..ya..guys.."

Cap nods at me happily as he adds first – " well it does feel incredibly good to see our Little Hit Girl Back in action...I mean...36 runs out of those 50 out off boundaries...incredible..."

Ravi adds grinning looking up from his phone – " yup...Arnav...and guess what....all of Insta is buzzing with that already and saying pretty much the same – that it's amazing to see The Little Hit girl back in action...as our womens cricketing handle just posted a post of Sheena and Her celebrating each other fifties..."

I ask happily – " really??". I mean usually guys you all know I do not look much over to the social media stuff. But off later yes – ever since my Sparkle played her first game in the WC tournament and scored her half century straight away in her first international match after months – I can't help but lend a very happy ear to all the social media praise being heaped upon on My Sparkle – happily. Ravi fills me up on all of that mostly. I do read the news articles myself though – over and over again – grinning in Glee.

Ravi nods – " yuppp....its going beserk already...people are saying things like..this its like she is coming back to her Game in a mode like a continuous Bang over and over..."

Rohan adds with a happy wink – " and rightly said...for I couldn't agree more ...for it's back in action and How gentleman...I mean lets not forget this is only the beginning of the tournament and our women's team has won their first two fixtures already and at the moment by already hitting a 100 right now for the loss of no wickets in 10 overs – I surely see them setting a super high target against Sri Lanka too..which gives them the advantage ofcourse..."

I nod at them happily as I say – " yup...guys...totally all for them winning this fixture too..,"and I pause as I add yet again knowing that my friends will get where I am coming from – " guys..you know what? this moment in time...right now..surely feels like a closure within to that aching moment in time when I saw her get brutally hurt on TV all those months ago...,"and I admit sincerely brushing my hands over my face – " for you all know I would never want to go back to reliving that bit off it even in my memories.."

They all nod at me in an instant understanding and pat my back and arm one by one in support and I thank them back with a similar gesture for their wonderful friendship as always and Ravi says – "oh come on Arnav..don't let the angst get to you now...its over..okay?"

I nod at him.

Cap and Rohan add in a heartfelt smile in support too – " look ahead...Skip..."

I smile as I answer – " yes..I will do that...I mean I totally want to celebrate this moment...guys..I am telling you..its going to be a cheat meal in lunch for me today..for sure..."( We are eight hours Behind – Brisbane, Australia in Time )

We all share a happy laugh at that and I add next – " ok guys...before the commercials end..I am going to quickly freshen up and come..for I do not want to miss the next over..."

They nod at me and I make my way to do the same.

So – yes.

I think I do need to give in a Brief Context in here.

We came here ten days ago after our Win in the Asia Cup for a long 45 day tour off South Africa in a series of Three Tests/ODI'S/T20'S. We just finished playing the Test Series against RSA two days ago in Johannesburg and Durban(With the series being levelled as in SA won the first test, we won the second and the third one was a Draw) and we arrived in Cape Town yesterday for our ODI fixtures start here in two days from now on the 9th! Today was a scheduled break day with each of us having just gym + chilling and relaxing time slotted for the day and because My Sparkle's fixture was to begin in her time in Australia – I adjusted my morning gym time accordingly. We hit the nets and practice for two consecutive days from tomorrow before the games begin.

As I am hurrying my way back to the room, my phone buzzes with Rahul's call and I take it in an instant and I hear his happy voice come in – " Mr Stranger...Junior is freaking killing it today as well...and to be honest..I think I am on the verge off tearing up like Dad too.."

I smile to myself as I stay put in my spot with my eyes on the screen showing Sheena on strike all set to play the next over and I ask – " really? Rahul? Sagar Dad is tearing up ??"

Rahul answers happily – " oh yes..he is...but he surely would have jumped up a lot more if we were at home...I mean you know since its 330 PM here and we are in the middle of a hectic day work at office.."

I chuckle to myself as I admit – "well yeah..I can imagine that bit of itt surely...I mean Anjali,and our Mom's are going all gaga in happiness too in the family group...and even though I know Dad and Akash are in a board meeting right now they surely would be keeping an eye out for the score too..."

"yes...I am sure about that too Arnav...okay..I just had to share my crazy happy brother moment with you for a bit...gotta return my attention back on screen..for these two just ran a killer 3 runs and Junior is back on strike...,"he says and pauses for a second and he adds – " somethings very different in her playing demeanour isn't it Arnav? Ever since she's officially returned to the pitch?? Its almost as if that back of the mind fear off just worrying about her technique all the time..seems to have lifted off her shoulders..she seems to be playing a lot more freely isn't it? taking more calculative risks too?"

He got that bang right – ofcourse for My Sparkle and me have obviously spoken about this.

I grin to myself as I admit keeping out my eye at my Sparkle on TV– " yup..you got that right Rahul...it's the impact of thinking and going through that process where in she thought in those couple vulnerable moments of initial bed rest that she wouldn't be able to play again...and now that she's fought through all of that and made it back to her game – she's just not chained in any technique fear anymore and is rather just pouring her heart out through her bat..."

And before we could say anything to one another we both end up cheering as we spot Khushi hitting another Sixer in a killer Switch Hit straight at the backwards point behind the wicket keeper into the air and stands and he adds first all overwhelmed and happy – " Ok..correction..Mr Stranger..i surely am tearing up just like Dad..I mean ..did you just see this one???another freaking sixer...Sri Lanka doesn't know what's hit them today...."

I admit grinning to myself – " I surely did see that...Superbro...and oh Sri Lanka surely knows what hit them today...India's Little Hit Girl ofcourse.."

And just like that we both share another happy chuckle and we finally hang up – wanting to return our attention to the Game in front and I walk my way back to the couch wiping a happy tear out of very own eye too!

Godammit Sparkle.

JUST TO SEE YOU PLAY THIS WAY – FEELS BEYOND JUST SURREAL.

Guys – I am surely going to text her that and much more of my exhilaration – obviously!

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Meanwhile Simultaneously – At The Cricket Ground – Brisbane

8:05PM

Nikhil fight backs his laughter with great difficulty as he takes in the expression off continuous zap and daze on his fellow junior counterpart from the sports journalism department back at the Hindu Times – Varun, for whom this was just like a second field trip in terms of journalism and coverage as in the second live sports tournament he was assisting in covering. He had assisted Radha in her live coverage and tour off The Asia Cup – not very long ago and as much as Radha had told him that Varun's epic dazed expressions while watching every match of the Men in Blue in the Asia Cup and the winning finale were probably one of the major happy takeaways for her, apart from the thrilling enthralling feeling of wins as a crazy cricket fan too! And now that he was kind off in the middle of experiencing the moment himself for the third time in a row – he thought – he couldn't agree more with Radha.

Varun's dazed and amazed expressions at the moment were totally like the icing on the cake.

He chuckles to himself as he finally nudges Varun in the arm and admits – " there ..there Varun...I ought to admit this to you right here...I know now exactly what Radha meant that your experience kind of made her go back to the days of her days of starting out...for yes it totally does feel the same to me..."

Varun gapes at his senior counterpart who he also did get along with otherwise and he admits just taking in the ambience in the cricket ground and he says – " Oh come on Nikhil Sir...you know very well..why I am in daze at the moment..I mean..look at our women's team...they are freaking killing it right now...just like they did in the first two matches too...I mean..it isn't just their collective performance with the bat right now but also their comprehensive performance with the ball and the fielding ofcourse which is surely helping them with the great advantage...,"and he pauses as he takes in the daze off the happy cheering for India women going on amidst the crowd that was kind off houseful with fans divided on both sides India and Sri Lanka and some had just come dressed in Aussie jerseys too and he admits honestly to Nikhil – " also Nikhil sir...to be honest to you ...a part of the reason why I am this dazed yet again..is because...I am beyond just amazed by the turnout in the crowd right now...here..to watch women's cricket live..its freaking house full..and the energy is insane...why haven't we seen anything like this in India yet for our womens team??? I mean they surely freaking deserve it..,"and he pauses and adds – " oh look...Sheena just hit an amazing four....at the last ball of the over..."

They both agree that the shot was amazing as the cheer in the ground continues by the India fans as the over changes and they continue chatting happily.

Nikhil admits with a warm smile and a happy wink taking the ambience in himself too – " well what can I say? The aussies love watching their cricket live mate...irrespective of the gender...,"and he pauses and adds hopefully – " hopefully..it shall be the same for us all too...I mean..it's just yet..buddy...yet...as in yes I do agree that our women's team back at home hasn't seen a complete houseful..but things have improved immensely after their performance in the Tri Nations earlier this year...in the sense...that the turn outs at the home grounds has been much better than before.....for sure...the awareness has risen immensely...so has the interest..."

Varun nods grinning in hope too – " and why do I feel Nikhil sir...that after this performance of theirs in the World Cup..things will only improve more...I mean...just...how amazing is this..."

Nikhil nods and admits with a wink – " I am surely counting on the same too Varun..,"and they both pause in their chatter as the next over begins and Khushi has to be the one to face the first ball of the ace pacer of Sri lankan innings and Varun says in anticipation and glee – " and I am just such a great fan off the way these two play in coordination too Nikhil sir as openers...as in just look at the score already – 111 – for none in just 11 overs...ha..I just forsee us scoring above 200 for sure..,"and he pauses as they spot Khushi hit another successful sixer on the very first ball of the over and the crows goes beserk and Varun says in awe – " oh my god....that has freaking gone the distance of above 90 meteres for sure...just what can I say about her at the moment...I mean Nikhil sir..she's always played swing very well..but ever since she's come back..she's surely playing the pacers so freaking comfortably...it's as if she was never missing from the game and squad at all..."

Nikhil grins to himself as he says – " I know right Varun..just look at the face of the bowler..she can't believe..that Khushi just smacked her more than just perfect delivery out of the park..,"and he pauses and adds with another wink – " and I am sure this isn't news to everyone at the office...I am a monumental fan of the little hit girl.."

Varun winks at him happily – " just like it also isn't news that youv surely been crushing on her too...too bad...for India's polo star has shotgunned her Nikhil sir..."

Nikhil rolls his eyes at that and Varun's phone buzzes and he says to Nikhil – " its Natraj sir...wait..ill just take it.."

Nikhil nods and resumes watching the game – happily. He just had a feeling that his one of his favourite sportsperson was heading towards a century today as he observed her run a comfortable double with her individual score roaring up to 64 comfortably.

Varun says to Nikhil after keeping the phone down – "Natraj sir wants us to get the little hit girl and Sheena on for a mid-innings interview...at any cost..I told him..we will...figure it out..we will be able to no Sir? Won't we??"

Nikhil grins at that as he says – " we surely will be able to Varun,"and he pauses smiling to himself loving the turn of events. He wouldn't ever miss a chance of getting a live mid-innings interview from the Little Hit Girl – ever.

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Meanwhile Simultaneously

At the Cricket Practice Playing Ground – Dwarka – Delhi,India

3:40 PM

Madan continued to watch the live match of his Khushi didi on his phone amidst his little fifteen minute break from gruelling play.He was so glad he had seen her hit her third fifty in a row too and he was all grinning like her biggest fan as she just hit another six and her score shot up to 64!

He was beyond just elated and all of exhilarated to see his Khushi Didi play this way again. His grit continued to double within as he also remembered his conversation with her just two days ago when she had called him up as routinely as she does once in ten days to check up on his progress both game wise and study wise!

He also couldn't help but grin more as she had congratulated him happily over his selection in the Domestic team a month ago crediting it all to his hard work and determination. He had been honest in telling her that – she had a huge part to play in all of this too. She was his inspiration – afterall.

And he was right about that too – for yet again – with her warm , kind and gentle support two days ago in their conversation she had supported him and showed him the way out.He had anyway been surprised when she continued to routinely keep a check on him even though she was surely all busy in the World Cup tour and his heart continued to respect her mountainfolds as she talked to him for that little while longer this time around – once he spoke to her about the little challenges he was facing in adjusting within the under-16 domestic team, because off his humble background. Because all the other players mostly were players who were educated from reputed English medium schools of Delhi who had been training professionaly for more than three four years and would continue to talk in English around him as well and boast about their elite training experiences too, which he just heard with a smile on his face because it was an interesting tale of cricket nonetheless. However, initially it was getting to him a little when a couple of players tried to water him down for being who he was in the sense of his background.

It if right then he sees Coach Sir gesture him to come back to the nets and he pauses on watching his Khushi Didi play and walks back to the nets and his coach Khanna with a smile on his face remembering Khushi Didi's words now.

" Madan..tu meri baat sun..yeh sab ka koi matlab nai thike? tujhe in sab baton pe bilkul bhi dhyan nai dena hai...tujhe bass apni game pe dhyan dena hai....teri game baat kar rahi hai tere liye..aur yahi sabko dikh raha hai..aaj tu domestic under 16 team ka part hai..aur yeh tera achievement hai..khud ka...game mein aur koi language matter nai karti...sirf bat aur ball ki language chalti hai..aur woh tujhe aati hai...paar haan khud ke baare mein sochna hai...toh aise soch..ke toh kya hua ki agar sab English mein baat kartein hai..aur tu nai kar pata...tu bass unko baat karte sun..tujhe dheere dheere pakad aa jayegi...tu bahut intelligent hai...yeh tere liye opputunity hai unse sikhne ki...aur toh kya hua agar duniya kehti hai kit tu gaon se aaya hai bade sapne leke...unko boldena...ki game mein koi bada chota nahi hota..aur sapne dekhne ka haq sabko hai..aur yeh haq tumse koi nai cheen sakta...aur na tumhari mehnat koi tumse wapas le sakta hai...tum bass unse apne mehnat ki language mein baat karte raho..aur dil ko strong rakho..yeh tumhare khud ka safar hai...aur kisi ka nai...yeh tumhari khud se duty hai madan..ki aapne roots pe proud raho hamesha...aur yeh right kisi ko mat do..ki woh tumhe chota feel kara sake...jo aisa karna chahe na toh bas dil mein sochna..ki yeh unki soch aur dil hai jo chota hai...tum nahi...."

English Translation : ( Madan ..you listen to me..please..all these things make no meaning at all..alright...don't give much heed to it..you just pay attention to your game like you are doing..for in the matter of the game..no other language matters expect for the language of the bat and the ball which you know...for your game is talking on your behalf and everyone can see that..today..you are a part of the domestic under 16 delhi team..which is a huge acheivement..and this achievement is all yours...but yes if you do want to think of something for yourself..think off this as an opportunity for yourself as in you keep listening to them talk in English and you will see that you will pick up in no time..for you are very intelligent.."

" and so what Madan..if the world is trying to taunt and say – that you have come from the village with big dreams in your eyes..? don't let it affect you at all..for you should always be proud of your very own roots no matter what..and you can always take a stand for yourself and tell them..that when out in the game on the field..theres no one who is small or big..and everyone has the right to dream and chase their dreams too...and that right no one can take away from you..and nor can anyway take away your hard work..for that it your's completely..and you just continue to talk to them in the language of your hard work..alright? and keep your heart strong for this is your journey within and not anyone else's at all and just think of this as a duty to youself again that you should be content off your roots always and never give anyone the right to belittle you...or make you feel small in anyway..just think in that moment of time...that if anyone is trying to do so..it is surely their thinking and heart that is small...not your's at all..."

And Madan finally reached his bat and picks it up happily – grinning to himself as he finishes recalling these warm and supportive words of his Khushi Didi.

Yeah – Khushi Didi was right – The Language of his Bat and hard work to his game was all that mattered at the end of the day, and he thinks to himself getting set to play his first shot in the nets – Khushi didi..aap dekhna..main phir se promise karta hun...ki main apna focus apne bat ki language pe hi rakhunga...aapke jaise...hamesha. (Khushi Didi...I promise you yet again..that I shall always keep my focus on the language of my bat..just like you do..always)

And the next very shot he plays – ends up being the Pull shot sixer his Khushi didi loves to play – on its own accord.

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

Brisbane, Australia – at Cricket Ground

Mid Innings Break

Sheena winks at Khushi playfully as they walk back to the ground near the dug outs. Harpreet had just informed them that the reporters from the Hindu Times who were covering the tournament live here in Australia wanted a little byte from them too, after taking a little mid -innings byte from her as the Happy Skipper at the moment for India Women had just finished playing their killer first innings and scored a massive 225 runs for just the loss of two wickets in 20 overs. Sheena had scored 75 runs – Khushi scored a 100 just intact and Harpreet scoring in a 50 runs not out too.

Infact - Khushi and Sheena had batted brilliantly for a collective stand off about first 150 runs before Sheena got out in an amazing catch out at long off which led Harpreet to come in at her no 3 spot and bat alongside Khushi. Khushi had already scored a 75 run stand by then too but after Sheena's wicket they had changed their batting strategy for a bit as Khushi anchored and Harpreet attacked for a while and then they took turns to just attack and anchor alternatively which eventually led India to a massive score with Khushi scoring her first century after her comeback at the third last ball off the last over – leading her into a emotional celebration mid pitch with her Skipper – Harpreet as the dug out with her team mates and support teams – clapped, roared and cheered for Her. For everyone in the close knit unit – understood what the moment meant to any player who was making their comeback to the game after Months of being Out. It was almost as if it was her Bat's way off announcing to the world – that she had Cemented her Way Back into her Unit – for Good.

Sheena nudges Khushi happily as they near the dug out and adds with another wink – " say what partner? I surely think that this reporter Nikhil from the Hindu times has developed some sort a crush on you or something...I mean..he's always just there...to cover up all our tours for months..and is always super keen on getting these bytes too..I mean..remember how he did that interview with you a while ago too..."

Khushi rolls her eyes playfully at her partner – feeling all exhilarated within after playing an amazing innings still unable to digest the happy energy of it all and she answers Sheena hugging her by her shoulders – " oh please...Sheena di..or maybe..it's you he is crushing on..yes he did a brief interview with me a while back too..but its surely just the dynamics of his job I am telling you thike?"

Sheena chuckles happily as she answers – " well clearly No to that..little hit girl..since when you were gone...he would always ask any of us in some way or the other after the bytes bit was over about your recovery progress...which means..its you he is crushing on for sure..yes..yes...I know..I know...you are surely going to roll your eyes at me and be like – uff ya Sheena di..dont tease me about this...you know I only have my eyes for my Mr Stranger.."

Everyone in the unit knew off late that Khushi was seeing some Mr Stranger and even though she had denied that Mr Stranger wasn't Hridhaan Singh Rajput to all - everyone mostly still believed amongst themselves that maybe it just was Hridhaan.

Khushi chuckles – " well...see you knew what I was going to say anyway.."

Sheena chuckles – " and I am sure Mr Stranger is watching and grinning at the moment.."

Khushi nods exhilarated almost imagining the happy expressions up the face of the love of her life – who was in Cape Town at the moment on national duties. She could also imagine the happy exhilarated expressions of each of her friends and family back home.

Sheena pauses momentarily and gives her partner a heartfelt smile, pulling her into a happy hug – " I wouldn't miss the opportunity off teasing you partner...but at the moment...I just have to say...this..,"and she pauses and adds happily – "it feels so good..to have you back...Khushi..so good....I missed opening with you so very much..you know that don't you? there wasn't a day I wasn't praying for you...we all were...."

Khushi hugs Sheena back all hard happily – " I know di...and copy that di..me too Sheena di..I missed opening with yoy too...I can't even begin to tell you how happy I am at the moment...it just feels amazing*beyond all of infinifty...no wonder I was so emotional as I reached the 100..pulling Harpreet di into a massive hug and jumping on top of her like a crazy happy monkey.."

Sheena nods in an instant understanding and she says with a happy wink – "And not to forgot the moment before that where in..you actually first kneeled down on the pitch in happiness..hugging your bat in your arms before raising it for the skies in a thank you god moment..and then yes ofcourse the kiss on the bat too..after before yoi ran upto hug Happy..I mean we all were surely thinking...that the kiss was surely for Mr Stranger..."

Khushi chuckles and admits ina whisper – "it surely was..he's watching na Sheena di.."

Sheena winks – " you mean Hridhaan is watching??"

Khushi groans – " uff ya di..its not him thike? and I am telling you na..I will tell you all about it soon...pakka se...k?", and Sheena nods lovingly at her and it is right then – they hear the Indian fans in the crowd start with a massive cheer of I-N-D-I-A and they look up to see that it was the Happy sight of them as Indian openers hugging from a second ago that was being blown up on screen.

Sheena says next happily – "come on then partner..lets go give that byte..before everyone comes out on the ground from the dressing room..hopefully we should be done by then.."

Khushi nods excitedly and they both make their way to the spot near the dug outs adjusting their caps on their head – nodding and smiling at the crowds acknowledging their cheers too along the way!

As Nikhil finally spots Khushi and Sheena approaching them and taking their spots grinning in front off him and Varun he says into his mike gesturing Varun to get on with the live record – " and ofcourse..we all know what that heartfelt hug was all about Sheena...Khushi....you surely were celebrating that brilliant partnership of 150 runs for the loss of no wicket..for us ...I mean...it was spectacular..from the both of you...a word on that brilliant partnership..please??"

Khushi gestures Sheena di to go first for she was her Senior.

Sheena nods and answers first grinning – " well to be honest buddy..we are both still a bundle of exhilarated emotions at the moment..just like our Skipper was a while ago..or how the rest of the unit is in the dressing room...I love playing and opening alongside Khushi...for we have this innate understanding of one another as individuals and cricketers both off pitch and on pitch – which I think ends up helping our partnership on the pitch greatly...all I can say is that I missed playing besides her immensely while she was away..and I am gutted to have her back......beyond just elated actually,"and with that she sidehugs Khushi happily.

The Indian fan crowd near the dug out cheers!

Nikhil smiles at that as he says – "well..we hear you Sheena...for we all share your sentiment..for every cricket fan in India watching the match right now..would be feeling the same...we are so glad to have India's Little Hit Girl back and how...I mean...your Skipper..Harpreet was just stating the same to me...that she is also superglad about the same...because she is relieved from the pressure of opening alongside you Sheena now that Khushi is back..and she is beyond just excited to go back to her No 3 spot..and ofcourse Mira and her also spoke about the same briefly in their pre match bytes..."

Sheena nods and answers grinning looking at Khushi first – " well yes...we are all so happy about that...for sure..its always great to have a feelow sportsman make their way back to recovery...its an emotional moment for us too..for it's a journey we take on collectively as a unit...and yes...Happy is really happy about that for sure..she loves playing at No 3.....she was stepping into opening in the T20 format alongside me while Khushi was in her recovery..but yes..she is superglad that..she can happily slide back to her No 3 spot.."

Nikhil nods – "and that was a commendable quick 50 runs from her too towards the end...,"and he pauses as he gestures towards Khushi – "and of course she had the best seat in the house when you completed your century in the last over..that celebration with your Skipper on field Khushi was surely heartwarming for us all to see...just like your celebration alongside Sheena was for your very own quickest 50 record ever......it truly was a spectacular knock from you..your first ever Hundred after your comeback..surely.. must feel surreal.."

Khushi nods and smiles and she answers sidehugging Sheena happily– " thank you so much..well to be honest..first out...I'd like to add that it was me who had the bestest seat in the house to witness Sheena Di and Harpreet Di's game today too...I mean...iv learnt so much from them along the way till this point..that it truly continues to be a learning curve for me to not just bat alongside them..but just play alongside our entire unit...,"and she pauses and adds as Sheena pats Khushi's arm in support, and Khushi continues sure that the emotion was evident in her eyes – "and about the latter...I mean my celebrations with them as I hit my 50 and finally the 100 in the last over..well to be honest..it was quite an emotional moment for me indeed..within...you know...since like you said..this was my first century after I'v officially gotten back to play..so yes..I am sure that came across quite evidently mid pitch in my crazy celebration moments....it was Surreal..it was emotional..it's surely a very special 100 for me within..and its dedicated to each and everyone who has stood by me through thick or thin till this point...to everyone who believed in me prior..and to everyone who continued to believe in me while I was confined to bed...that I could make my way back to my game...one day..."

Nikhil nods and says next grinning – " and we are so glad that those days are finally here....its surely got to be super special indeed..for this is just your third match on return and to hit a 100 today surely must feel like a huge milestone.."

Sheena adds grinning – " exactly buddy..this is just her third match...after she's back..so just imagine what all our little hit girls got in store...from here on..."

Khushi chuckles at that hugging Sheena to her side happily – " well that's sheena di for you..always superkind to me...but yes...it is a huge milestone for me ofcourse...to be honest...just making it back to my squad and playing for my country in the World Cup is a huge milestone in the first place..you can say...it was a dream I was chasing in my head during my recovery....so yes...I am superglad to just be here and just make some runs for my team and my country at the moment..am as elated as ever to be able to contribute in anyway..."

Nikhil nods and asks sincerely – " we understand..surely...chasing this very dream given your situation back then was what kept you going..?". He brought that bit of it up again momentarily – for he had already interviewed her about her journey off recovery and back to play briefly as she was selected for the World Cup – Squad.

Khushi nods sincerely and she says – " yes..it truly was what kept me going along with my family, friends, and loved ones ofcourse...and to be honest now that I look back..I can easily say that my injury and the aftermath after surely put a lot of things in perspective for me as a player..for when I returned to the pitch and picked up my bat again..I did just tell myself that ...yes I was going to work on tackling my earlier challenges with the bat and techniques but not worry to much about it in hindsight during play and instead just get out to play...each day..as if it were my last day playing cricket for my country...for you know there was a time in my vulnerable moments on bed that I used to think to myself..that what if I never play again? so yeah...I just channelise my energies and emotions for my game through my bat now..playing each day as if it were my last...it fuels me immensely..."

Nikhil grins – " well that truly can be seen too Khushi...congratulations to you for the wonderful century once again..what do the both of you reckon ?that the game's won already?"

Khushi nods and smiles – " thank you so much once again..but no...we don't think that at all for that's just how it is in cricket...it's never over until the last ball..and Sri Lanka Women are a brilliant team ..and they'v got their batting lined up pretty deep into the lower order too...so we gotta keep our focus out on the fielding now and help our team defend the total...for the win..."

Sheena nods and grins – " exactly..for even though the pitch conditions were assiting us batters in the first innings...the pitch is still turning at certain points in the favour of the bowlers..which is exactly what we need to captialise on...now..and yes..hopefully help India Women..win the game...,"and she pauses as it is right then they spot their team heading out towards the ground being led by Harpreet for the second half of the game.

Khushi says politely – " ok so I guess we gotta rush now..for...its time for us to now head back and play the rest of the match.."

Nikhil nods and grins as he sees the excited faces of the rest of the India's women's team come out and the Sri Lankan Team batters coming out on the field from the other side of the pavilion for the rest off the play too – " all the best for the rest of the match Sheena and Khushi..."

Sheena and Khushi nod at him collectively before they walk up a little to join the rest of their squad, with Jess gesturing Khushi to come in for a happy sidehug as they marched their way happily into a group on field.

Nikhil grins as he says into his Mike – " and that was our little byte with our star openers mid innings...Sheena and Khushi..for now ...do stay tuned for the rest of the action...for if India Women win this one..they win their first three matches of the group stages in their Group A in a row this ICC T20 Women's World Cup..getting us off to a flying start in the tournament..indeed...."

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

11:00 PM – Brisbane

In a Cab – on the Way to the Hotel

Kudrat smiles to herself as she picks up the phone. It was Hridhaan. They were on text – chatting up on Whtsapp just ten seconds ago. She answers grinning – " and the fact that you are calling right now...tells me that you paused to just talk for a bit before heading into your meeting with Uncle.."

Brisbane, Australia was 4 hours 30 minutes Ahead in time from Jaipur, India – which meant that it was about 630PM there and today was one of those days when Hridhaan's father had asked him to step alongside him at the hotel for a meeting late evening – after his Polo sessions were done for the day.

She hears Hridhaan answer into the phone – " well yes...I thought..before I get confined into the boardrooms for the next one hour or so..I should hear your voice to keep me going..."

Kudrat chuckles again as she answers softly – " god...Hridhaan...its crazy how you make me blush this way.."

Hridhaan – " it's a bummer I aint there to see the sight though Kudrat...but I will be soon...very soon.."

Kudrat asks – " so all set for the acquisition meeting??"

Hridhaan – " yes..you know how dad's been keen on aquring this boutique hotel chain in Jaisalmer...so yeah...I am glad that its shaping up well for him...infact I think today the final terms will be decided on..since their entire team has come prepped with it all...,"and he pauses and then adds – " will you take the cab back after? Or rather just ask Emily to pick you up..."

Kudrat smiles to herself – " Emily will be picking me up for sure Hridhaan..she isn't going to be sleeping soon...anyway..given the fact that we both are high on fan adrenaline at the moment..."

Emily was her late fiancee's Jacks younger sister. Even though Jack had passed – Kudrat always kept in touch with his family – his parents and his sister specially and they shared a close bond – and every time she could squeeze it into her schedule , she did visit them here in Brisbane – which was where they lived. And since Emily had always been a huge fan of cricket – today the two of them had been there in the stands watching the World Cup Match in between of SriLanka and India live.

Hridhaan and Kudrat share a warm chuckle at that as he says – " oh yes...don't even ask me how crazily worked up Shivi is at the moment...I mean she is as excited about the fact that we won and how given the way Khushi played...but I think at the moment she is also equally excited about the bit where in – you are headed to meet Khushi.."

Kudrat grins to herself. Khushi and her had been in touch on and off on text or in conversations through Hridhaan and Shivi and now that she was in Australia with the unit and the minute they had figured out that they would be in Brisbane at the same moment in time – they had planned to meet up. The original plan was to catch up wit Khushi and Jess over lunch tomorrow but then after the match was over , and she had texted Khushi congratulations – she had received her message requesting her to come by to meet her at the Hotel today itself – "well to be honest...Hridhaan...I am pretty excited about that bit off it too....I mean I am still getting goosebumps after witnessing the innings live that I did today...I mean..what a comeback for her ya...I am elated for her as a sportsperson..for sure...also yes...I had to tell you Hridhaan...please ask her to stop apologizing to me alright? I mean she's already left me a text saying the same...because she is so worried that her kiss on the bat gesture stirred up the buzz online with everyone thinking it was for you...I mean...I think that's surely the reason why she insisted on meeting now itself?? I already texted her not to worry about it though..for I understand how these things get..."

She hears Hridhaan answer apologetically too - " Kudrat...I know..she did text me the same that she sent you an apology text...but yes...I am sorry about this again...but I promise...just give me a little while more...and there will be an end to all these speculations for sure..."

Kudrat smiles as she leans back in her seat – " god..Hridhaan..please..now don't you start on this again...I told you..i don't care about what the world says...I trust you...alright??alsooo yes...I am reaching the Hotel in like less than three minutes now...and I am feeling bad..that she's leaving her afterparty and stuff..to just catch up with me right now though...I mean not only was this a killer come back match for her for she received the player of the match award with the century and three killer catch outs – India women defeated Sri Lanka by a margin of a solid 60 runs..which is epic for the team's net run rate going ahead in the tournament right? so yeah...I can't believe she and Jess are stepping out of those celebrations to see me...right now..."

" Kudrat...you have no idea how excited these two have been to catch up with you all right?? so I am not at all surprised at the turn of events at all darling...,"answers Hridhaan lovingly and he asks softly next – " but hey..before you reach the hotel and I get a shout out from Dad to head into the boardroom...I want to ask you...are you okay Kudrat?"

That puzzled Kudrat as she asks – " why do you ask that Hridhaan? Ofcourse I am okay..whats wrong with me??"

Hridhaan answers sincerely – " I mean you are visiting Brisbane today after months...and...I guess when you are with Emily or in Brisbane...its natural for...happy memories of Jack /with Jack/after Jack to make a rush with the heart and mind and I am sure that makes you feel vulnerable or emotional...for a bit...look I am here for you darling..alright? please know you can talk to me all about it.? I understand.."

That from him not only surprises Kudrat but stuns her way too emotionally making her feel a gush of emotions for him and she answers wiping a happy tear outa the eye – " hridhaan..dont do this to me alright? you are making me tear up right now..."

Hridhaan says sincerely – " well I didn't plan on doing that..I am sorry for.."

And before he could complete his sentence Kudrat interrupts him as she says – " crazy you...I am not tearing up out of angst of my past Hridhaan..I am tearing in part emotion+part happiness because of you...I mean..I just feel lucky to have you right now...thank you for everything...and I am okay...truly..was a little vulnerable surely...but lets talk about that later alright? for the cabs just pulled into the hotels porch..."

"ok then...but we will talk about this ok? I don't want you to shut your natural vulnerability with the past out because we are dating..alright?? I don't want to be the one to ask you to erase yours..ever...I just want to be a part of your present and future...Kudrat...,"answers Hridhaan.

Kudrat sighs to herself as she admits – " come soon please??? I miss you..so much..."

Hridhaan answers – " and I am coming very soon..for sure..k? I miss you so very much too ..can't wait to see you...ok...I too gotta go now..for Dad's given me a call out to head to the boardroom...you have fun with Khushi and Jess and call me after...I am sure it'll be great..."

Kudrat talks for another five seconds with Hridhaan bidding him bye and then they finally hang up and Kudrat reads the text from Khushi on her phone telling her that she and Jess were waiting for her in their room already! Kudrat smiles to herself and makes her way into the Hotel.

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

At Khushi and Jess's Room

Jess can't help but smile as she looks at Khushi pacing about in their room with both of them still pretty much dressed up in their sporting jerseys and she says – " ohh...Khush..cmon...stop it..just relax...Kudrat is all kool about this...I am sure...as in ..didn't you text her your apology already??"

Khushi stops up in her dramatic worried pacing as she gapes at Jess and says – " I know Jess..but just because a person is all kool and understanding..does not mean that I take them for granted thike? I mean...to be honest..I had no clue in my celebratory moment..that my kiss on the bat is going to become such a big deal in stirring up all this online stuff with Hridhaan again ya...I am so embarrassed right now thike? "

Jess sighs as she walks up to her best friend hugging her to herself – " ohoooo...Khushi...relax? Please will you?? its been such a great night ya...in so many ways...alright? lets keep it at that? ok remember what did Skipper Blue say about the same? He is supercool about it as usual and he is sure that even Hridhaan and Kudrat would be...just like me and Vikram and even Shivi are too..its only you...who wont stop getting worked up..."

Khushi shoots Jess a narrowed eye nervous look as she asks – " really? is it just me??"

Jess nods grinning.

Khushi groans as she admits – " uff ya Jess..what to do ya..I just hate to be the one to be the cause of any trouble for anyone thike??," and she pauses and admits – " I am just so glad that Kudrat agreed to come tonight here itself..."

Jess grins – " well I am glad about that...I mean haven't we been dying to meet her knowing the way how Hridhaan is getting into her crazily by the day..."

Khushi couldn't help but grin at her in a nod as she says – " uff ya...I am so excited...Arnav was all like...you better tell me all about that Sparkle..before he stepped into the team strategy meeting at their end.."

It is right then they hear the doorbell ring and Jess adds grinning – " must be her..for everyone else is in the celebration still downstairs in the hotel lounge.."

Khushi nods and they both nod at one another and go over to open the door for Kudrat and just as they do – and see Kudrat standing there with a grin up her face – Khushi and Jess exchange a happy wink and they say to her in unison – " finally...we meet you..hello....Kudrat..come on in..."

Kudrat smiles at them both as she steps in – " hello Khushi..hello Jess...,"and as they close the door shut Kudrat adds grinning taking out a tissue and pen from her clutch – " ok first thing out...autograph please...both of you...I mean...girls...I was in the stands...and what a game..what a game it indeed was...,"and she pauses and adds looking at Khushi – " what a comeback – Khushi..."

Khushi exchanges a heartfelt look with Jess first and then she instantly touches Kudrats arm sincerely and she adds hurriedly in a rush – " thank you so much Kudrat...but..wait..before..that...I need to apologize to you ya..for this constant stuff online with Hridhaan...I mean I can only imagine how irritating it must be for you as his girlfriend right now...please know that I had no idea my celebratory moment would lead to all this stuff again...I assure you that all of this is going to die down...very soon...I am going to put an end to it once and for all like pakka se...please...just forgive me ..just this one more time??"

Kudrat chuckles at that apologetic rant and she says biting back her smile – " well there's nothing to forgive at all Khushi...for I am not at all irked by all of this at all...I know everything that has been about your equation with Hridhaan from him...I trust both your word on this...indeed..."

That relieves Khushi completely for Kudrats genuine smile was a giveaway and she asks – "sach mein? Pakka se? as in you are not mad at all right??"

Kudrat shakes her head in a negative grinning – " nope...not all..."

Jess grins and winks at Khushi and then Kudrat – " please note...I told her the same Kudrat..that chances were that you'd be all kool about it...and she was getting worked up for no reason at all..."

Kudrat grins at that – " well yes Little hit girl...Jess is right...you surely were getting worked up for no reason at all...trust me..."

And that makes the three of them share a warm chuckle and Khushi immediately sidehugs Kudrat from one side and Jess from another and Khushi says – " well thank you for being so understanding ya Kudrat..and what is all this autograph and everything..no formality ya please...as in even though we are meeting in person for the first time...we have heard so much about you from ..,"And she pauses as Jess and her both add in unison – " Shivi...Hridhaan..and Vikram...which was why we just couldn't wait to meet you until tomorrow...we apologize for our last minute spontaneity though..hope it wasn't a trouble for you...,"and they gesture Kudrat to take a seat.

She does and she answers grinning – " oh please...Jess..Khushi...it wasn't a trouble at all..and to be honest..as much as I was waiting to meet you both..I think for a moment...I surely am fan zoned..."

They all share a warm comfortable laughter at that yet again and begin to talk and catch up comfortably – for even though technically they were meeting for the first time – each of them had already met the other in conversations and references prior.

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

90 minutes Later

Khushi and Jess's Room

Khushi's POV

Guys.

You outta Forgive me thike?

I mean – now that I am finally alone by myself in our room as Kudrat just left five minutes ago and Jess was coaxed by everyone to just rejoin the ongoing celebrations in the Hotel Lounge below – all I can do is pretty much just gape at my Player of the Match – award in Hand right now - Completely Speechless and Dazed * Beyond all of Infinity – Indeed.

I mean – I surely cannot even begin to express what tonight's game and those moments of taking that run to my 100 tonight - meant to me!

I ...

Oops.

Wait.

Guys.

Gotta Pause on the One on One.

For Arnav's calling on the video call – finally.

I mean – yes – guys – obviously we got on our strings of crazy chats as usual on Whatsapp the minute my match was over and I switched on my phone after the post- match presentation but because so much was happening around me too and at his end in Cape Town with first lunch with the team + strategy meetings after that we could not video call – which basically means – that I shall have to push our one on one to later!

I swipe up the Green button and see his – Grinning face fill up my screen instantly as he says walking into his room – " Sparkle...godammit....kya kar diya hai tumne aaj...I mean...just look at what you have done...I mean...I won't stop grinning...do you know even during lunch I was grinning like a monkey and it took me all of my mind to just shorten my grin into a comfortable smile during the serious strategy meeting with everyone..."

I chuckle happily at that as I ask lying down and stretching in bed – "really?? did you just get in the room just now love? as in aap ab free hue ho??"(did you just get free??)

Arnav nod instantly as he says – " yes..just this very second..I walked into my room and video called you straight away...how did it go with Kudrat..Sparkle? your smile tells me it was great??"

I nod as I admit happily – " oh yes ya love...I mean it was super great thike? as in..she is so kool and like super awesome ya...Jess, me and her are catching up tomorrow to for an early lunch as planned prior for she only flies back to Sydney late afternoon..for you know tomorrow we have that one day break..."

Arnav nods lovingly and I see him take his seat on the couch as he asks excited – " that's great...Sparkle..so yes...love...I know we talked about this on text already...but come on..tell me...how does it feel??? I mean if I am feeling so surreal with just watching you...I can surely imagine the tides of surreal emotion consuming you..."

I nod at him lovingly as I pick up my Player of the Match award and show it to him on the videocall lovingly – " Oh my god..yes...ya..love...I mean..more like the tsunami of surreal emotions...for sure...I mean...I am so happy...so so so happy...like I just can't tell you ya...infact it isn't just me who is speechless with happiness...Mom, Dad, Superbro, Anj...are too both our families are too since I did get into calls with them too ya...already..."

Arnav winks adds lovingly – " I know...Mom was speechless in daze in front of you surely..but she has been gushing about it eversince..expect a collective call from them soon...she was about to call you right now actually and I texted her saying..Mom..its my time with My Sparkle roght now..you please connect later.."

I gape at him chuckling – " really?sach mein? Aapne aise kyun kaha??"

Arnav nods grinning – " well I had too Sparkle..for I was dying to just see you and talk to you...as in on video call and now that I am seeing the happiness in your eyes...its like I cant really express what I am feeling within too...I guess..I can rightly say..I am going all speechless too....You have no idea all right.. how high I was jumping when you hit the 50...and wait...you can actually ask Ravi what a crazy nut I was acting like when you hit your 100..or when you received your player of the match award..meri jaan...I am so proud of you sweetheart...and it isn't just us who know you who are gutted for you..as in I am sure Rohan, Cap, Ravi already texted you too...but just our entire cricketing unit is so happy and excited for our women in blue....I have already texted Harpreet and Mira the same too.."

I grin at that on reflex – " thank you so much...Arnav.."

He continues grinning – " infact coach sir is going to be texting the same to your coaches too..as in..thats an amazing start to the World Cup tournament love by the unit..indeed.."

I nod at him happily – " we are all thrilled..love...oh my god...you just see everyone going crazy in celebrations..."

Arnav grins – " and rightly so...and infact so should you be too Sparkle...for what you did tonight out there..on our 22 yards..is surely like the Baap(father) of Comebacks of all time..."

I chuckle at that as I ask bursting into giggles on reflex – " what?? love?? what did you just say?? Baap of Comebacks??"

Arnav nods and he adds with a wink – " oh don't you know Sparkle...that's exactly whats trending in the online headlines right now back in India..with regards to your play and our teams win tonight...."

"reallyyyy?? Is it????I haven't spotted that yet...I am sure nor has Jess or anyone for they are busy celebrating...in the lounge...I mean just as Kudrat Left...Sheena di called our room and coaxed Jess in to join everyone back...and in the rush to head out she didn't check out the online stuff too...and I just got to freshening ," I answer happily pausing to sip on my water.

Arnav asks locking his gaze with mine – " but why aren't you celebrating with them Sparkle??"

I admit with a wink – " uff ya..because I wanted to just be with you for a while na love...and celebrate with you first thike? I mean...luckily they didn't push me much because I just told them..i did just want to rest out for a bit..after the physically gruelling hours of play...you know they wouldn't coax me then.."

Arnav nods and grins – " yes they wouldn't Sparkle...but....come on..it's your day..darling...celebrate with them for a while and then call me back...I am right here for you now...as in Ravi, Rohan , Cap, Veer and me plan to go out for some shopping only post 7pm and then early dinner..."

I nod at him at that as I say – " okay then love...maybe I will go down for a bit in a while thike? but first...I just had to raise a toast to you na...will you please fill up your glasss with some water given the fact its just late afternoon for you...I have mine here..filled with a little wine..."

Arnav nods and does so immediately and he asks as we raise a toast virtually – " but wait...Sparkle..why are we raising me a toast...we should raise you a toast to you meri jaan..."

I shake my head in a negative as I admit - " no...I cannot even raise myself a toast without raising a one to you first meri jaan..for if it hadn't been for you...and your love and your support..I wouldn't have been able to fight my way back into my game...my unit..and play the way I am able too...its you...its all You..your super strong shades in me...,"and I pause as emotions choke my voicebox and I burry my face in my one hand out of sheer happiness wiping my happy tears away as I admit with my face still in my hand getting all emotional – " nai kar paati...main aapke support ke bina yeh kabhi nai kar paati...."( I wouldn't be able to pull this off without your support for real ever...Arnav...)

I hear his loving voice fall in my ears – " Sparkle...look at me ..please??"

I do instantly and lock my gaze with his and he says – " emotional mat karo abhi mujhe(please don't make me emotional right now)..or else...I will fly to Australia right very now to just kiss you madly..."

That makes us both share a warm chuckle and I admit as a thought strikes me – happiness and glee returning to displace the sentimental shades of surreal emotion – " oh my god...love...listen...now that I look at my time here..it's the7th of October already...which means that..just a month to go for our wedding...like literally...."

Arnav winks at me happily as he says – " I know right??lets raise a toast to Just Us again then??"

I nod and We Do and he says happily – " I am so glad we finished up with most of our wedding outfits preps well in time Sparkle...I mean you are done with all...I am left with some..which I will get done when I return to Delhi on the night off 26th October..from our tour here..."

I chuckle – " oh yes...I am so glad...that now its upto both our families and You to get on here with all the stuff...but I am so glad that the cover of Akash and Payals wedding is working for us perfectly.."

Arnav chuckles as he adds with a wink - "yup..Indeed...Sparkle..an..,"and he pauses as the landline in our room buzzes.

Arnav gestures me to take it.

I do and I hear Sheena Di , Happy Di, Mira Di, Vedika, Jess, Harleen + the rest of my unit speak into the phone in a happy unison asking me to just come down for a bit and I just tell them that I will be there in a while for sure and hang up and just as I do Arnav says lovingly – " go on then..Sparkle...celebrate with your unit...alright?? I am right here..waiting for you.."

I nod at him as I say – " thike then love..ill get off the video call now..but we will keep chatting in the middle thike? I will try to make it back to the room quickly though..for I have so much to talk to you still na..."

Arnav nods happily and he says – "and before you go meri jaan...I want to raise a toast to Your Baap of All ComeBacks..once again..."

I chuckle at that happily and we get around to doing the same sure that he could understand the underlying meaning behind the emotions in my eyes and I say to him after before hanging up – " God only knows when will dear mind and heart wake up from their surrwal daze though..they are beyond just stumped ya..."

Arnav chuckles at that as he says – " and they surely should be..."

I grin to that as I say – " acha listen love..dont hang up na..as in what if I convert this video call into a voice call and we keep talking while I make my way down..we can hang up... once I reach the lounge..."

Arnav nods and winks lovingly – " you know I'd love that Sparkle...,"and I pause and I quickly do just that as I start to make my way out to join the rest of the team in the celebrations and also continue to talk to Arnav side by side.

Guys.

One things for sure though – even though Dear Insides were Stumped in a Happy Surreal Emotion – they surely were going to dish out a long list off things to be Grateful for in my Gratitude Journal before I closed my eyes to Sleep tonight.

I mean – to be Honest – Could Words ever be enough to Thank god – ever???

Nah.

Never.

Words could never be enough.

They are never supposed to be Enough – Perhaps?

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

TADAAAA.

How was the Update Guysssss?? Will be eager to know what you all think? I loved writing about Sparkle's – Comeback – finally? I hope you all enjoyed it.

Have a Great Week ahead everyone.Please continue to take necessary precautions while out and Stay Safe everyone – the Covid numbers seem to be at a Rise Again!!

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love.

Always.

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