Hellooo guyssss
Here I am with an Updateeee…..!!
Its like decently Long not like crazy long…haha!!
14 k Words guys and it totally needed to stand out as a Update on its Own Guys!
Please ignore editing erros as I have not proofread!
Stay in and Stay safe Guys !!
And now I shall let you all dive in without further Delay!
…………….
CHAPTER 48 – THE SWEET & SALT LEMONADE OF MY EMOTIONS
5 Days Later
(4th December – One Day Before Khushi and Arnav's Departure to India)
Khushi's POV
EARLY morning 5:30 AM
Okkk guyssss!
A very very early good morning to you all from – My Side of the Globe!
Tomorrow...I am scheduled to Fly Half Across the Globe...to Land into a New Phase of My Life with Arnav in India.
And
Do You guys know what do I feel like within right now?
Like in my Emotions and in My heart?
I totally feel like - A Sweet and Salty Mix of A Fresh Lemonade Drink!
Haha..!
Yeahhh!
Sooo before I get to elaborate on that thought – I want to Give you all A Glimpse of all that has happened since we returned from the Magnificent Titanic of the Yatches – The Galactica Star.
Sooo the minute we got back at the Harbour – Arnav first dropped me at Hit Wicket and My Studio and he had to rush to the photoshoot and the rest of the formal stuffs scheduled with the Team and the World Cup and then I had obviously been busy at hit wicket until then and then I made a Stop at the Hotel at around 230ish to meet everyone from the Team, and Sachi Maam and little Zoya and Coach Sir to meet up with them before they all left for India for they were scheduled to leave by like 3pm to the airport and Sachi maam was ever so gracious as she said that we must catch up as soon as I was in India....for we were technically going to be as good as neighbours now for their Home was in the Same Area as Arnav's in Chattarpur,New Delhi.( like just ten minutes away).And I obviously promised her that we would catch up surely once I was there...and then I even had a very nice ten minute chat with Cap as he apologized to me once again and I assured to him that there was nothing to worry about and that he did not have to carry the baggage of any kind off guilt on his shoulders at all because everything had worked out perfectly for Arnav and Me...anyway! And then ofcourse Ravi had been so MISCHEVIOUS right before getting in the car to the airport.. in stating that by the time I would land in India with Arnav..he would pick us up the airport with signed adoption papers from his parents for he really was serious about having the right to call me his little sister legally...haha...and I assured him that he didn’t need the legal formality for the same for in I already felt in my heart that he would always watch out for me like a older brother....and that is why as his little sister..I advised him to hurry and get in the Car to the Airport so that he could be on the plane that was going to take him to Anjali.( oh on that Note...Ravi’s family actually lived in Pune...where he visited quite often...but hes been living by himself in a penthouse in Gurgaon for about five years now)
Soo after the See Off of the Men in Blue Happened...Arnav accompanied me to my session with Dr Priya who was beyond delighted to meet him...well because she was such a huge cricket fan tooo...and had her own fan moment with her favourite ASR…and then id asked her if Arnav could be with me in the session which had surprised Arnav and he was all like Sunshine..I’d love to be with you...but are you sure?? Will you be comfortable?? And I was like yes..Arnav...its You...I am literally as comfortable with you as I am in my own Skin! And so he held onto my hand and sat by me Rock Solid as always as i narrated everything i had experienced emotionally within... to Dr Priya...and by the end of the session...Dr Priya sprang up from her seat and hugged me tight stating that she really was proud of me and that I really had conquered a great Milestone Within and I was honest in telling her that I couldn’t have done it without her guidance, Arnavs Love,my Familys blessing from the heavens above and all of my Near and Dear one subtle rock solid support to me always!
And after the session we had made a quick stop at the Studio to pick up more of Arnav’s and My Stuff for we would be staying at Rahuls that Night!And well ofcourse because we wouldn’t be able to Share Rooms then…My Hoodie Guy was giving me such innocent disappointed looks as we collected our stuff– and well…that look of his and along with the fact that we hadn’t kind of even kissed ever since we left the Yatch made us both go crazy as we finally kissed after closing up on a common cabin bag…and well which obviously turned into our Carnage Revision Class for around 30 minutes (I totally had that timer on again…haha…much to his dismay though…haha) – before we finally made our way to Rahul’s.
And guysss the Look on Rahul's face when he opened the Door to Us.
He literally faked falling back into Diya’s arms on the pretext of fainting for Real...stating dramatically that Diya...My cricketing god had arrived at my doorstep for Real ! Haaa...the Drama King he is...totally left Arnav into splits at the door itself and it warmed my heart as he wrapped his arm around Rahuls shoulder and asked him to teach him how to execute some of that dramatic antic so that he could complement my dramatic antics every once in a while!
Haaa! This Man.
Let me tell you guys another Magical Spell of his He Swished Off...Off his MAGICAL wand...well so Rahul's place is like a decent sized two storied normal 4bhk house with a little garden up the front with a garage and then there was the backyard which was decent sized with a garden a little patio as well.
So the kitchen...the formal living area and then a small informal Lounging area with the entertainment set up and stuff along with Uncle And auntys room and one guest bedroom is obviously in the ground floor and Diya’s and Rahuls room along with another smaller room which had always been like his Study Space with a Double Futon Sofa Cum bed was on the second floor(which I always Stay in whenever im sleeping over at Rahul’s because that’s always been a chilling space, for Rahul, Me and Diya – it just always feels more comfortable and cozy to me).
So then My Hoodie Guy meets everyone so so lovingly and warmly and then exclaims that he wanted to use the Smaller Study Space for his Stay because he always knew that it was a space that I used to stay in everytime I was there and said that I should use the guest room downstairs – and no matter how much everyone tried to convince him that the bigger guestroom on the ground floor would be more comfortable for him – he would not budge from his decision – well which was a surprise to everyone, not really to me though for I know that My Hoodie Guy is so so so humble and grounded at the same time , no matter how big a star or a celebrity he is!
He would be as ok and comfortable in eating by a food truck joint – as he would be at the most luxurious of restaurants in the world.
He would be as ok and comfortable by living in a small study space or in a smaller Studio( like mine) – as he would be at any luxurious space in the world!
He was like that Magnificient Banyan Tree – which had it stems and branches and majesticness- awe the onlooker because of how majestic and magnificent it was – but at the same time – its roots were grounded firmly deep into the ground.And infact this humbleness and being grounded was kind off like an amazing trait in which was common in everyone – Mom, dad, Anjali and Dadi.
And I guess – this very fact has been realised in their hearts by every one of my near and dear ones as well – because of how just he’s been so so so warm to everyone!
So on the Day that followed Next – that amazing Friendly cricket match Happened in between of everyone and Boy – it was a Freaking Treat Guys! Oh gosh the exhilarated look on Rahul, Varun’s, Asher, Zain, Sameer, and Armaans face as they played with Arnav in this very backyard where I am sitting right now – and true to his word…My Hoodie guy used Rahul’s bat and offered one of his favourite ones to everyone to play with...and all these men were like school boys each taking on the chance to bat with ASR's bat like in an another epic fan moment in their lives And Rahul and Varun and Sameer and even Armaan for that matter have turned into even more crazy cricket devotees of their Cricketing God ASR ever since that day as Arnav taught some of his techniques to them even!
And Zain and Asher had their own set of cricketing queries from him regarding the technalities of the game.
And guys to be honest – the sight of him just mixing up so warmly with everyone truly truly warmed my heart...and every cell of me was like in love with him all over again...and then I also decided to have some fun amongst all my heavy duty emotions I was feeling within for him as usual as we all chilled until late evening because Arnav and me would be going back by dinner time to my Studio and Hit Wicket and so…let me tell you all the mischevious fun I had…well because Armaan was there and we were obviously catching up and talking in between as old friends , but the fact that I knew what was going on Arnav’s head at the sight of me and Armaan talking together, or the sight of me smiling at him – made me talk to Armaan a tad little more than what I would have if I hadn’t known what was going on in My hoodie Guy’s head…haha… It was all friendly and casual ofcourse…as I caught up with him as he told me about his future plans back in London..and my eyes were totally teasing Arnav…for I was gloating in happiness within, because I understood what the twitch up his jawline meant even thoughs he was at his gentlemanly self and super cordial and casual and polite around Armaan…! Haaa...! The Fun that it was – as Arnavs eyes silently challenged me back that I would be fined very heavily later at night for pulling up this amusing stunt on him.And oh on that note – I was ofcourse – you know Heavily fined with A Massive jolt up on Intensity of our Carnage Revision Class that started the minute we stepped into My Studio by 11pm that night and went on till wee hours of the morning in various different sessions in between of us…and then following morning also began with A Super Carnaging revision class because well - once we stepped out getting ready thst day we were not going to get any privacy – and I guess that’s why that morning revision Carnaging session im my smaller ensuite shower cabinet of my Studio was kind off like the most Intenser and Urgent and Crazy one – there was nothing gentle about it at all– to be honest it was very very sensuous and sinful – I mean I couldn’t believe the things Iv been starting to feel sensually…its all sexy and crazily sensuous and so so so beautiful that it’s literally drugged me Insane for this man, and our chemistry – well I don’t even think I can explain this in words…but ill try anyway…its like our chemistry is becoming like super flammable by the second – like more and more intense – for this man has literally comprehended his way around my body way to well. So You know like how Gas Flames up Immediately with just a Spark of Light of Fire! YAAA.. sooo....just like that...out just one touch to each other off late kind off fires up the other...and especially me for his every single touch be it loving, possesive,urgent,sometimes gentle...sometimes rough...on every inch of my body touch has been doing that to meee surelyyy– as if all of the cells in my body are like pools of Petrol/Diesel/Gasoline caught on Fireeee!!!!
Yeahhh!!
Right!
Damm this hoodie Guy!
Now that I think off it – I think I have kind off have axed my own feet with this sweet revenge torture plan because its kind off turning around on me for I feel myself ache for him in those heated moments so so so much – but no matter how heated it gets - My Hoodie Guy is on that eye for control – because well hes a gentleman at heart no…he will keep his word to me that he will only technically make love to me after we are married and well because I know him so well – I also know the other reason why he keeps an eye for control- its also totally because there is that mischevious devlish impish side off him that’s enjoying this sweet torture on me way too much – he loves to see me ache for him and then he uses his hands on me in the most sinful and sensuous of ways to make me swing in between the seas and the stars at the same time – as I feel my body surrender to him in every way and totally melt in his arms as if I was Also a Wax Statue whose been theored Undone in this Mans Arms in such a way ...that if some one even asked me what my name was in those moments- I would definetly have no Memory Collection of the Same!
Goshhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!
Maybe just maybe..he really is the Sinful Sensuous Devil himself!
My Sinful Sensuous Devil.
But wait.
How is it possible for him to be like the Sinful Devil and the Most Precious Angel too at the same Time???
For he’s totally won everybodys heart around ya guys – as he goes around waving his magic wand at my near and dear ones – soo guys...on the rest of the days that followed – during the days when I am at Hit wicket – and im doing my final handover and executing tasks out to everyone so the smooth functioning continues after I leave – he literally chills with the Chefs in the kitchen – or spends time with Varun, Jack and Stacey getting to learn the art of making our most top selling drinks and the coffee drink to his name too...( just imagine the scene Varun is like almost climbing up the walls in glee like a crazy spiderman as Arnav literally acts like a focussed student who is very much interested to learn more for real – and because these days Hit Wicket is literally housefull like all the time because of Arnavs presence around – he even sometimes surprises the customers by carrying out his and Caps and all of the men in blue named dishes to the guests himself..and then also happily obliged them with a selfie of a Lifetime!! And then every evening – theres a little meet and greet time with Fans too as he chats up with them casually.And not just all of that Asher and Zain and Him have been having a lot of meets business wise also as Asher and Zain and Zara come over every day to Hit wicket around 6pm and then Zain, Asher and him all discuss the business models of their respective industries.And in late evening as we head back to Uncles ( because Aunty called me and asked if it would be ok for us to stay for the remaining of the nights with them...for they were loving the time spent with My Hoodie Guy...and we happily agreed....and...Arnav made me promise that I would sneak up to meet him for privacy for a revision class though once everyone was asleep..and I teased him about it saying that I would see to it...but who was I kidding...I wanted the classes as much as him ya...so yes..after everyone sleeps...I literally have been sneaking in my Uncles House to go meet him in between of 1 to 2 am like every freaking night after the only second day stay at my studio...haha..aand the fact that we have to be all quiet and hush about it...kind of makes this mischevious imp love the situation more...as he tortures me Insane)
And Oh.
Guysss you know why Aunty and Uncle have also fallen in Love with Him so so so much in the short span off time...for this MAGICIAN has literally been pulling out two different spells on them... helping Aunty and Diya in the kitchen at around meal times on the pretext of wanting to learn how to bake, and the art of cooking too and he helps us around in all the household chores....like be it everything..like just the other evening he totally helped me and Diya vacuum around the house as well...and then..like...he even helped me and Rahul with the Dishes last night and then slowly took the charge of cooperating the dishwasher and then returns to help us all wind up – and then we all sit around for a Game of Monopoly!( the spell for Uncle)
For Monopoly is Like - My Uncles Favourite!!!!!
Like to get into His Loving Books – all you need to do is tell him that You Love Monopoly!
A game of Monopoly has always been such a constant feature in all our lives every now and then – and ohh it always ends up getting amusingly heated in between of Uncle and Rahul because Uncle has like more luck with the Dice and Rahul often teases him saying are you my Dad or what or Like Some Ace Dice expert?
Haha!
Anyway so... Trust me on this when I say tthis guys the look on Uncles face was the most priceless one – When Arnav first played Monopoly with us all and was like this super focussed banker too – and the moment is totally nailed itself into my Heart and Head – like Uncle was all like Won Over by this Magician on another Level!
Infact every one of my Near and Dear ones have been Won over by him – on another level!
Every One of Them!
And dont even get me Started On Me in those regards..guys!!
There literally isn’t any thing that he hasn’t helped me with amongst all my winding up Process and packing – hes helped me sort out..and pack up the things I want to take- books,clothes and all of my other stuff and then also box up some of the stuff I dont want to take along!
LIKE SOMEONE GIVE HIM THE OSCAR FOR JUST BEING THE BESTEST YAAAAA!!!!
And on that Note – later last evening as we finally wound up and packed up my suitcases....( because today was all planned out to just spend with everyone)...so to my surprise yesterday late evening once everything was wound up in my Studio.. Arnav took my hand and took me to the adjoining room of mine where Iv kept my Familys Stuff and he tells me that Aunty told him that she was going to place the entire arrangement as is – untouched and then he cupped my face and looked into my eyes and started softly – that I did not have to worry about the Luggage for he had already requested for extra to be allowed on us by the airlines so I could totally also take up all the suitcases with my familys stuff in it too!
It Carnaged me Crazily emotionally that moment ofcourse and I was overwhelmed with so so so much Love that I kissed him poignantly for about ten minutes right there and then admitted to him honestly- that I was only planning on taking the two little cabin bags I had stored with their super favourite stuff and let the rest be here as is...ass I just sometimes needed these precious memories of their favourite things to just feel and touch in some vulnerable moments – like daddys bday, krish’s bday,mommy’s bday...their wedding anniversary date...their death anniversary...but I was totally ok with just taking their favourite things and not all!
And well we had left for Uncles Post that and because he knew I was feeling a little naturally calm and a little solemn after I had finished packing up those two little cabin bags with their favourite stuff....and...just as we reach..he exclaims to everyone that he was totally on his chef mode and goes straight to the kitchen and asks Aunty to teach him how to make Jalebis!
Like can you Imagine this Man?????
So Now.
Coming back to the Sweet and Salt Lemonade Situation of My Emotions.
The Fact I want to Think Up and Bring out Right now?
Because ONLY Apt as to what I am feeling right now in my heart again!
Guys Know what?
Iv always been crazily in Love Citrus Fruits – always!
( I wonder why I never mentioned that before...or did I??)
Anyway
SO
OUT OF ALL THE FRUITS IN THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD...like literally all of THE FRUITS THAT BELONG TO THE CITRUS FAMILY HAVE ALWAYS BEEN MY FAVOURITEs!!!
And right now In this very moment as I sit on this backyard Bench at Rahul's all by myself sipping on some warm water with a squish of Lemon in it, waiting to see the Sunrise....whilst everyone is still asleep inside well because it is like 530 am in the morning...I can’t help but compare the emotions I am feeling within to the Taste of my favourites Citrus Fruits or to the sweet and salt mixed fresh lemonade ya guys..for theres something so so so tangy and sweet about my emotions right now... ...as in sweet as the sweetest intoxicating nectar of bliss and elixir...for I am so so excited and happy about this new phase in my Life with Arnav...like so so so excited...how can I not be? When this man Loves me the way he does ya!
And also to be very very honest...since the last evening especially as time is nearing for me to finally Jet away from my Life and world here In Cape town...I have been feeling a tinge of that tanginess and saltiness in my emotions – for its obviously making my insides a little sad to process the thought in my head and heart that- it really is time to get on that JetPlane to India with Arnav. I had been very emotional about this last night too.
I wipe a overwhelmed tear that was threatening to leave my eye..and I smile through it...as my Heart swells with Love again ass I recall how amazingly supportive and understanding My Hoodie guy has been as always to the situations in my Heart...and more so since last evening ever since I finished winding up my stuff for good along with my familys two little cabin bags and kept them all neatly stacked against the wall in my studio...like I literally didnt even have to voice this out to him..for He Knows!
He always Just Understands!
For.
Our silence is never silent anyway!
And.
Our eyes have a language of their own!
( You know that’s why he went to Make me Those Jalebis- which by the way were like Yummmmm...and My Hoodie Guy proudly exclaimed to all that he’d pretty much got the works done by himself under auntys and Diyas guidance and had only taken Auntys and diyas help in just the frying bit)
So like I mentioned.. he obviously also knew that i was getting emotional by the way my eyes were welling up with emotions around Uncle,Aunty,Rahul and Diya...at dinner last night as Aunty and Diya pampered me with my favourites of the dishes...stating that one more day and then they wouldnt get to cook for me as often a theyd want...and I was fighting my overwhelmed emotions right when he literally stated to aunty and diya that they were not just my favourite dishes anymore but also His...and he started munching on everything on his dinner plate so happily that it warmed my heart...and then He also was uber amazing in requesting to them to make these same dishes for Us both whenever we visited Cape Town...which he assured and promised them all would be Often !
Just when I think I Couldnt FALL more deeply for him!
And then ofcourse then the Jalebis brought by him as Dessert to the Dining table changed MY Entire Mood back to its excited Happy Mood again and then ofcourse how can a game of Monopoly not charge one up competitively!
And the Game totally went on till Midnight last night!
And.
Rahul finally won a game of Monopoly last night! Like it’s not that he hasn’t won before when we play ...but he was all like super duper happy and extra excited about the fact that he won a game of Monopoly over Arnav actually!
Hahaha!
The kid that Rahul is!
Now you all know why I call him a Monkey?
Anyways!
So it was only later last night when everybody was asleep when I sneaked up to meet Arnav as usual in between 1am to 2am when he finally engulfed me his secured and loving arms as always and told me that it was ok if I wanted to vent out my emotions a little...as in because he understood that it was only natural for me to get emotional for I was moving away from my entire Life here ...and that he wanted to just hold me tight as I let them flow...and so in vulnerable bittersweet moments in his Arms I had finally cried it out a little and he had held me tight and been with me as i talked out everything i was feeling within to him as always and wed spent our entire time just talking and he was comforting me lovingly and then I finally made my way back to my room and he made me promise that I would always let him hold me tight as I experience these sweet and Salty moments!
And right then my eyes that have been on the Horizon as if been on my thinking trip...take in the Sight of the Sun Rising and my Heart is once again is getting mixed into the Sweet sand Salt lemonade mix as I realise that day after tomorrow – I’d be watching the Sun riSe from the Other Side of the Globe – that I’d be landing into A whole New World for Realllll...like Soon!
And I now need to feel Arnavs arms around me and I look at my phone and I see the time.
Its 600 AM.
And everyone will only wake up by 730..and start to get out of their rooms like by 8ish as usual.
So i totally have an Hour to Just Cuddle Him and Sleep – that will surely Charge Me Up!
I quickly call him and he picks up in three rings and his sleepy yet concerned voice comes through – “ Sunshine...its 6am..why are you awake ...you only went to sleep by like what 2am..are you ok Love??”, and he yawns.
And I smile to myself as I say honestly and softly – “ I am ok...Love..Arnav..I just want to sleep in your arms for one hour maybe...”
“Sure love..ofcourse.....you want me to come down to your room??I can...everyone will only wake up by 730ish and start getting out by 8am..so I can come..”, he asks yawning one more time.
And I say softly - “ I am coming upto you...2 mins...”
And I now rush in and close the backyard entry and lock it up again and place the mug in the sink and then quickly and silently take the stairs up and as I reach the landing, I see Arnav’s already waiting at the doorway of Rahuls smaller study space and just as I see him open his arms to me...i hug him straight out and then he closes the door behind us an locks it up , and he Carrie’s me up in his arms to the futon sofa cum bed and I just bury my head in the crook of his neck and tighten my hands around his neck now and he places me gently on the bed and then comes into my side and we both get the duvet over ourselves together and he kisses my forhead and cups my face as our eyes lock and he asks softly – “ you ok??”
And I nod and he smiles through a yawn and touches a side of my eye and his thumb wipes away a overwhelmed tear and he gives me the most heartwarming smile and he asks softly – “ feel like that sweet and salt mix of lemonade again Sunshine??”
I nod silently looking into his eyes.
And he kisses my forehead and whispers softly – “ only natural Sunshine...its only natural..tell me did you gett any sleep at all then last night??”
I say softly cupping his face – “ I did sleep but only a little was a tad bit restless..I need to sleep in your arms so that I am supercharged up Love..I’m sorry to wake you up this way...”
And he hugs me hard now...all if him engulfing all of me in a secured and loving hug and he crushes my hair softly as he says – “ sleep love...just sleep...I understand why you are restless...”
And I am puzzled as I hear him say that for even I didnt know why I was restless , but his soothing touch is already working magic on me as I feel his heartbeats calm my restlessness and I whisper softly against his chest – “ you understand..?”
I feel him kiss my forhead softly – “ yea Sunshine I do...dont worry about it...it’ll be ok...just sleep for now..youv got the alarm....on... I’m sure??”
And tighten my arms around him as I snuggle into him – “ yes Love...”, and the comfortable and secured embrace of his finally whisk me towards the lanes of a peaceful sleep.
He really is My Magic!
............................
9.30 AM
Raima aunty grins at Khushi and Diya and Rahul as they all set up the breakfast table and she sates excitedly – “ I still cannot beleive he made those jalebis for you last night Khushi...he really loves you beta...and I am so so happy for you...”
And Diya nods as they all start taking their seats and she says – “ oh yes Mom...i agree.with you on that.. this hoodie guy of yours Khushi...is like a heart of gold too...I mean...so sincere and friendly and warm..totally won us over...ya...”
Rahul grins and winks – “ and I am yet to digest the fact that I beat him at Monopoly last night...”
Khushi rolls her eyes at Rahul – “ oh you are such a monkey...”, and sticks out her tongue at him playfully.
Rahul chuckles at Khushi and smiles warmly now –“and know this donkey.... I am really happy for you...we all are...we will all miss you ofcourse...but your Hoodie guy is a amazing man...and I’m not just saying that because I’m his biggest cricket devotee..you know that dont you??”
And Khushi nods happily looking at everyone as her heart swells with immense Love now.
And right then Uncle walks out of the room and he takes his seat on the table and states with an amazed smile – “so I just got off the phone with Arnav’s Dad and Arnav..we were a combined con call...Arun was confirming our travel plans and he also stated to me in the most polite and humble way...that we would all obviously be staying with them all once we were in India and that we did not have to worry about any arrangements financially… because I wanted to discuss that with him for iv obviously saved up over the last couple of years for your wedding Khushi beta..I always felt that it was the least I could do for your daddy..he was my best friend after all…”
And Khushi says immediately – “ oh uncle but you never mentioned this to me…you don’t have to ..please…”
Uncle smiles as he says – “ Khushi beta please…let me..so anyway hear this..Arun said that I need to worry about the financial arrangements at all and then Arnav suggested that I should gift whatever I have saved up to you instead directly for that would be the aptest way of blessing you...which kind off seemed to be fair point to me too in my heart because of the way he said it… and Arun was all like my son that’s a briiliant idea..and they were so amazing about it…that it truly warmed my heart but then because I wanted to still do something for the functions.. I did tell them that i would atleast want to contribute a little that i could towards the mehendi and the Haldi function...and we came to a common grounds on that…. your father in law is also a thorough gentleman Khushi....I am so happy that you are going to be part of such a loving family....”
And Raima aunty smiles as she adds – “ I agree..I mean Ravina and Anjali hav been in constant touch with me and Diya on video calls and whtsapp with regards to the rest of niticraties and arrangements always ...asking for our opinions and always asking will Khushi like this...she said she would when we asked her but we are reconfirming with you Raima and diya just incase Khushi is feeling all formal about this...they love you beta...they all do...and that is why as bittersweet as this moment is for you will go tomorrow...know that from all our hearts we wish you nothing but the best always...”
Khushi now gets up from her seat and pulls everyone is a group hug as she states overwhelmed- “ I will miss you all so so much...”
And everyone hugs their crazy goofy Khushi tight...completely overwhelmed too.
Couple of Minutes Later , Uncle finally pulls apart and he states with a warm smile at Khushi – now c’mon...go get your Hoodie guy down..he must be talking to Arun right now...but am sure he must be hungry..call him Khushi...”
Raima aunty grins – “ tell him I made him the aloo parsthas he likes..”
Khushi nods as she states with a smile – “I’ll be back..in five...”
And she races up the steps now and reaches on Arnav’s door to see it open and hes on the phone and he gestures her to come in with a wink and Khushi does so smiling as she plonks herself next to him on the futon bed and he puts his arms around her shoulder lovingly and Khushi snuggles.into his side as he says into the phone – “ ok dad...yes...ya...kool...yes all done.. we will see you all soon...bye now…gotta head down for breakfast…im pretty sure Raima auntys made me those aloo parathas…”
And Khushi grins and kisses Arnav’s cheek as he now puts the phone aside and hugs Khushi and the cups her face lovingly and asks concerned – “you ok Love??”
Khushi nods with a smile – “ overwhelmed yes...but ok...Arnav…gosh…uncle just told us all about the conversation you all had…i ..i…don’t know what to say…thank you…thank you so so much..im just going to message Dad, Anjali and Mom and Dadi too…ill just post a collective message in the whatspp group…”
Arnav hugs her hard as he whispers kissing her forhead –“no thank yous hushi please…w are a family now..you are going to be my wife…”,and he kisses the ring on her hand and Khushi now gets emotional and she pulls in Arnav for a brief yet deep emotional kiss and five minutes later as they apart Khushi says softly looking into his eyes- “cmon then…lets go down…for breakfast…evreyones waiting…”
Arnav winks and kisses khushis forhead – “ and my morning just got better with that kiss from you…Sunshine”
Khushi chuckles as they lace their hands and make their way down now and just as they are approaching the dining table Rahul sots them and says with a dramatic sigh – “ the sight of you ASR walking around in our home still feels Surreal to me…still getting around to stomach that in…”
Arnav chuckles as he takes his seat next to Rahuls and opposite to Khushi’s and looks at him grinning – “ really?? Still?? Youv been my dining neighbour for so many days now..”
Rahul nods grinning – “ well yes still…ASR…you have no idea how big a fan iv been…”
Arnav chuckles – “ ok I think I do…”
They all share a laugh and Diya asks from across the table as they start eating – “ so you guys going to Zara and Zains for lunch rght?”
Khushi nods – “ yes diya…then post that im going to stop by hit wicket before we come back here…for the…”
Diya grins – “ for the farewell dinner part we have arranged for the two of you right here….gosh…I am so so excited…Zara is going to come over early too after the lunch and then even siya will be here…just you wait Khushi…tonight…is going to be crackling fun…everyone will be here…” and she pauses as she adds with a heartfealt smile at seeing Khushis eyes well up – “ oh please Khushi…cmon..just promise me..that you wont cry..”
Khushi wipes another overhwlemed tear – “ ok ok…ill try ya Diya…these are like sweet and salt tears ya…cant help it…”
And Arnav now continues to take bites of his paratha as he states – “ aunty I just need to kiss your hands…this is amazing..”,and he winks at Khushi and does just that dramatically making everyone laugh and Arnav now looks at Rahul as he states – “ so Khushi…you gotta come along with Rahul and Me for a bit before we get around to heading out to Zara and Zains…”
Rahul’s heart warms up now – the message from ASR at 9 am this morning to help him make some arrangeemnts – had totally moved him too, and he nods – “ totally donkey…eat fast…we need to leave after breakfast…we have to be somewhere..”
Khushi looks at the two of them from oppsote her chair gaping in a stunned amused expression – “ monkey…did you help this magician plan up something behind my back..? and you aren’t telling me??”
Rahul chuckles and rolls his eyes at Khushi – “ofcourse donkey…im not telling you.. how can you even question my loyalty and devotion towards my cricketing god??”, he finishes with a mischevious wink and everyone now laughs and Khushis eyes lock with Arnavs as they ask him silently – what have you done now my love? And Arnavs eyes now smile back at Khushi as they gesture – Just you wait Sunshine…just you wait.
……………………………………
Khushi’s POV
Guys.
I cannot freaking believe this ya!
I groan as I say now – “ Rahul…you monkey…why did you have to listen to This hoodie guy and blindfold me again?”,and I say out loud – “ hoodie guy…you really love this don’t you???”
And she hears Arnav’s voice come through chuckling – “ oh yes…toally…five minutes Sunshine…we will be there…”
I ask now – “ guys…where can you be taking me to a place that’s so nearby …I mean didn’t we leave like about 5 minutes ago…”
Rahul’s voice comes through – “ oh donkey let me focus on the road..be patient no…”
I groan as I plonk myself in the backseat now as I say – “ oh you wait both you guys…just you wait..…”
Five Minutes Later
I feel Arnav taking my hand as he helps me out of the backseat and hugs me to his side instantly as I put my feet on the ground and I ask softly – “ Love…please tell me where are we..?”
And he kisses my forhead and he whispers softly – “ so the reason why I think a part of you has been so restless last night…I wanted to see if this could help maybe…”
And I ask puzzled – “ huh??”
And right then I feel Rahul come to my side too and he keeps his hand on my head in a caring touch – “ donkey…this one is for you…and its toally Arnav’s idea..he messaged me this morning…and I helped him coordinate…”
And I ask now puzzled as I stand in between the two men blindfolded – “ coordinate what???”
“coordinate this Sunshine…”, comes Arnavs loving voice in my ears, and he adds – “ cmon Rahul , lets get her blindfold off..”
And I am silent because I am so so puzzled as I try to figure this out and right then I feel them both untie my blindfold and Arnav swishes it off my eyes and I open my eyes and I am stunned with emotion as I find my self looking at my Home.
As in My Home.
Our Family Home.
The Home in which, me, daddy, mommy, krish, lived all our lives in until the Crash happened.
The Home in which all my childhood memories arise!
The Home I had to Give Up after the Crash!
And I am touched beyond words as I can only stammer – “ Ar..na..v…Rahu..l…h..ow…??”
And Rahul says softly – “ Arnav felt that maybe if we could arrange for you to just visit here once before you left tomorrow…”
Arnav says softly lacing his hands through mine and kissing on it softly – “ I just thought maybe just visiting here before we left would ease down your restlessness Sunshine…for this was where you actually lived before it all right??only fair that you visit it once too..”
And my eyes lock with his as they are stunned with emotion as I ask looking to and fro in between the two – “ but how..i mean..how can I just go in…people are living in there now ya..”
Rahul smiles – “ oh yes they are…and I got their number from the agent you helped you sell this…and I spoke to them this morning…they are more than happy to have you and visit…and it helps that they turned out to be big cricket fans too…so they are totally excited about having their fan moments with ASR too..”
I turn to Arnav and I look at him gobsmacked and I am unable to get a word out right now and he just kisses my forehead and whispers – “ I know..its ok…you don’t need to say anything…I understand Sunshine…”
And I just hug him tight and Rahul says softly – “cmon donkey…you both go in…message me once you are done…ill come pick up..”
And Rahul kisses my head too and gets into the car and drives away and I am still stunned with emotion as I feel Arnav tighten the grip of our laced hands – “cmon then Sunshine…will you show me the house that you grew up in??”
And I nod happily dazed – I hadn’t been here ever since I had emptied this and then handed it over because well this was mortaged so I settled a part of that outstanding loan on my parents name by selling the restaurant, and then got around to selling this as it was furnished -later on in a desperate sale to a real estate agent company at quite a undervalued price actually – because I had to clear off all of that remaining loan and then save up the rest in order to start rebuilding my life financially.
And now I am standing in front of My that very Home – the walls in which I grew up!
My emotions are overwhelmed on so many spectrums – that I literally cannot get a word out and so I just nod at Arnav as he kisses my hand and asks – “ shall we Sunshine???”
And he holds my hand and leads the way towards the door – that I once used to run into every single day of my life.
And I watch My Hoodie Guy press the Doorbell.
…………………………………….
60 Minutes Later – Khushi’s POV Continues
I sip on the water I had in my hand as I am at what used to be our terrace garden now – looking out into the Horizon – sitting at the same outdoor seating – which Mommy and Daddy had once picked out for this Space!
I am kind of surprised to see that this Space is still the same as I left it.
The interiors have been changed though ofcourse to match the familys choices , but most of the furnishings inside are also the same.
The family living here- had been so so gracious to us and Arnav was now in their little sons room (which used to be krishs room) - signing on his little bat and other stationary items and I told him that id be up at the terrace waiting for him.
I had taken My Hoodie Guy around ofcourse after that little meet and greet for about the first ten minutes with the family and then hed held onto my hand tight as I showed him around every room , every nook and corner, every space and told him all the major stories and memeories I had in my head related to those spaces and my childhood and as much as tears were rolling down my cheek naturally as I talked to him – In my heart I was so so so happy to be able to show him the Space I grew up In…and the fact that he was so interested in listening to my every tale about every little nook and corner of the house – only struck a emotional chord within my soul so so so deep – and I know I have said this before because have always felt that way but today what My Hoodie Guys done for me – its kind off consumed my soul in a very very deep way emotionally, because as I stand here looking at the Horizon I realised that visitng here and just feeling the space of what used to be Home one more time has kind off really eased my restlessness – as bittersweet , as salty as my emotions are…theres something so sweet about what I felt as I was moving around here…and I feel at so much peace within…that… I am stumped to process the fact that how did he even sense that this was what I probably needed to do before leaving tomorrow – when I hadn’t sensed it myself.
He understood what id need in this vulnerable moments even better than what I understood for myself.
Godammit you Hoodie GUY!
And right then I hear footsteps behind me and I know its him so I turn around and just as I spot him walking towards me grinning as he states – “ finished up with the little man..hes so zapped and stunned in his room right now..its adorable…and while I was coming up aunty told me that she is making us some iced tea…I told her we will be down with them in like 20 minutes maybe…ok Sunshine??”,and I just now instantly hug him hard as I say against his chest – “ honestly…how did you even figure out id needed this…hoodie guy…when..i..i…”
And I feel him hug me hard as he kisses my head – “ I know you in and out now Sunshine…don’t i??”
And I look up and I meet his overhwlemed eye too and he asks softly again - “ you ok Sunshine? How do you feel about this??”
And I smile now as I admit honestly – “ I feel overwhelmed ofcourse Arnav…but I am at a peace within…for real…”,and I now take his hand and I say pointing towards the cane wing chair – “ you know that used to be Daddys favourite newspaper reading chair…his morning began on this terrace garden Arnav..always…and that was Moms favourite spot on that two seater right diagonally opposite to daddys…I want us to sit teher and talk for a bit…”
Arnav nods as he gives me a overhwlemed smile and igesture him to take my daddys favourite spot and I take moms and I hold his hands and I kiss on them as I admit looking into his eyes softly – “ Arnav…for the last couple of days iv been thinking of a superlative or Love for us…haven’t found it yet…but I promise to you right now…in this very moment of time – that I will not just love you insanely in this life…I will do so…in all my lives…its like what I am feeling right now the love…its totally consumed my soul Arnav and I want you to know that it isn’t just my heart, soul and body promising to love you in this life – I will do so in all my lives after this…my heart and soul shall only remain dedicated and devoted to love yours forever and ever…”
And Arnav now kisses on out gripped hands and his eyes swim with a zillion emotions too as he says softly – “ and I like the sound of the word devotion…I think I should say this out to you…that iv been devoted to you in every way, mind, heart soul and body ever since we met Sunshine…and I promise to uphold doing just that forever and ever too…”
And I smile through my happy tears now as I ask – “ are you sure Hoodie Guy?? I mean think again…all my crazy goodiness for all your lives…you do know what you are signing up for…don’t you??”
And he chuckles now and bends forward and kisses my forhead – “ ofcourse…and the deal is sealed – you are mine and I am yours for all our lives after too…”,and he looks into my eyes and he says softly – “ well I thought id talk this out with you later…but now that I am sitting in your daddys favorite spot…only fair that I talk this to you now…I feel this is the moment I should…”
And I look at him puzzled, and I kiss his hand – “ what happened Hoodie guy??”
He smiles – “ so in this moment I want to ask you for a little favour..”
And I nod happily – “ ofcourse Hoodie Guy…ask me anything…”
And he smiles – “ I want you to allow me to gift you something..”
And I look at him puzzled – “ huuh??”
Arnav cups my face with his one hand and he says softly – “ so the other day at Dr Priya’s when you went to freshen up in between..i chatted with her for a bit..as I asked her to tell me about what it was for you in real in those days after that crash happened…because well I wanted to know…”
And I say – “ gosh Arnav…you shouldn’t have..i was such a mess then…”
And he smiles – “ and that’s precisely why I should have…because once I heard the gravity of what you had gone through in brief highlights ofcourse from your counsellor…Iv been thinking about this like eveynight Sunshine…whatever she told me…that you had faced and fought out emotionally back then…I realised that the depth of the love you feel for me is something I can never probably comprehend maybe…because I can only imagine how much it must have taken from you within to do the things that youv done for me…specially with reagrds to cricket…and then letting go of your daddy’s restaurant specially and then conceptualising hit wicket your tongue…investing all that youd saved up into it…and now once again..for me…you are leaving it all behind…and as much as I know its for US…and you are happy in making the shift…I just feel that I want to be able to atleast do this for you…and so right now I sit in your daddys chair and I ask you of this favour – Sunshine…please allow me to gift you something which youv built up with so so so much love…”
And I am really moved with whatever he is saying but I cannot comprehend whats he getting at and I ask puzzled – “ Arnav…love..okk..let me think this over but first you need to tell me…what do you mean Love???i am unable to comprehend..”
And Arnavs takes a deep breathe as he says – “ hit wicket your tongue…I want to help you set up the same Hit Wicket Your Tongue back in Delhi too…actually Gurgaon…since its nearer to home..iv already seen a spot…its been on my mind for a bit…Sunshine…look all I want is that you allow me to be your partner too…you know just like Rahul is…and ofcourse you will set this up as you want and have sole control of execution and management like you had here…and if you say you are ok with this…then im going to talk to Rahul tonight if he will be ok in giving us the license to run the same brand in India because well I know you guys have copyrighted the brand name here..so only fair…and I totally want Rahul also on board on this…as in all I want is that you allow me to come onboard with you and Rahul as a partner too….and because I know what that look of concern in your eye is – let me make this clear – dad and Mom , dadi and Anjali love the idea of this…and love all my earnings from cricket is what I manage on my own..always…and im talking about being able to invest a little bit of my cricket earnings into this cricket themed café business with you…”
And I look at Arnav totally gobsmacked as I say immediately ovewhelmed with crazy love emotions for this man in front of me– “ Arnav…gosh…love…are you serious???? You want to be like a partner in hit wicket?? You want me to set up one in India??”
And Arnav nods with a smile – “ and hopefully because I know its going to be an instant hit…we can then expand it into a chain of various hit wicket your tongues all over India Sunshine…like one step at a time..i promise…I will not go beserk with investment and funds…you plan it all financially and how you want to go about this in execution too..just take me on as a partner thats all I want…because love…hit wicket your tongue is very very important to me emotionally too…you know that…don’t you???”
Ofcourse I know that Hoodie Guy!!!!
And to be honest – maybe I can work this out ….like anyway right now in hit wicket your tongue cape town..i just have like a five percent stake and Rahul is like the major partner..and now that I was moving…maybe if I spliit my share as in hand over 2.5 percent of the stake that I have in hit wicket cape town to Rahul an keep only like and then use those funds, along with the rest of the savings I have from all my other jobs..and invest it along with Arnav and Rahul to set up a Hit Wicket Your Tongue in India too…!!
Ohh yessss!!!!
But first I need this man to promise that he will not go overboard with investment again.
And I look at him as I narrow my eyes with a smile though – “ ok…ok…Iv thought this through…it does makes me very very happy to know that I will be able to set up hit wicket your tongue in india too…since well you know its so so so emotional to me too…but…promise me hoodie guy…that you will not go beserk on this as in investment wise…we will start this slow and steadily…as in you can be like my angel investor/partner totally if you promise to let me plan this out financially in the most efficient manner…and will keep onto those limits of fund limits as we mutually decide as per the business model…and I will totally invest all my savings too and also dilute my stake in hit wicket cape town by 2.5 and give that to Rahul…ok? Promise???”
Arnav grins as he says – “ promise…Sunshine…I promise you…you know I am a man of my word now don’t you know…a through gentleman at heart..i mean you have the most personal experience off that now don’t you…as in If I can keep on to my word in those passionate moments in our Carnage classes then im surely going to keep my word in here too..” he finishes with a wink.
And I gape at him amused as I say – “ goshhh Arnav…stop…don’t …”
He chuckles as his eyes challenge me – “ why shouldnt i?? are your thoughts being drifted to…”
And I stop him immedaietly by keeping my hand on his mouth – “ please love…I don’t want to flush and blush insane right now…we have to go down …”
And Arnav kisses my hand and then pulls it off and cups my face – “ ok fine..i wont …not now…later…I surely will….so I take that now that I promised you that I am going to keep my word on this…if you say a yes then we can talk about this to Rahul and Uncle this evening before the get together…”,and he pauses as he now says with a smile – “ I will only get off daddys favourite spot…If you say yes Sunshine…but hey…no pressure…you can take your time..”,he winks.
And I grin now as I cup his face and kiss his forhead – “ ofcourse it’s a yes…Hoodie Guy…lets do this…take our hit wicket your tongue to India too…”
And he hugs me hard now and I hug him hard too and he cups my face now minutes later and kisses my nose – “ ok…but no work on this until we are back from the honeymoon ok?i just want you to get settled in first and relax a little amongst all this change..and then after the wedding and the honeymoon …you can start on this once you feel you are ready..ok??”
And I nod Happily – “ yes ok…totally…Hoodie guy…its perfect…”
And he cups my face and gives me his most innocent and mischevious look to me as he asks – “ Sunshine…daddys watching us surely…but I need to kiss you…right now…briefly maybe…but you know like to seal the deal…I need an official stamp from your lips and give you mine too…”
And I chuckle on reflex as I stand up from my seat now and Arnav stands up from Daddys seat now and I wrap my arms around his neck and his arms go around my waist possessively and I cup his face with both my hands and I whisper against his lips with a chuckle – “ im sure…daddy wouldn’t be watching this technically for…moms probably placed a hand over his eyes…and now that I think of it Arnav..i always say that my familys always watching over me…but gosh..our carnaging sessions…mom..pleaseee never let dad and krish see those..and you too ..blindfold your eyes…ok…just …just blindfold all your eyes…arnav..you agree no…”and I chuckle against his lips and Arnav chuckles now against the side of my lips and he says – “ godammit Sunshine…you are bloody amazing …just when I think I cant get any crazier…”
And I whisper against his lips softly – “ just when I think I cant get any crazier too…”,and before I can say anything further..his lips close over mine softly and emotionally and poignantly and I pour in all of my emotions into the kiss and so does he – like we both always do in moments when we are both very emotional within for the other – and these emotional kisses in between of us are soft and slow and tender and very very sweet.
…………………………………….
3:30 PM
Zara grins as she finishes her coffee and places the mug on the side table and she states looking at Zain, Asher, Arnav and Khushi – “ ok guys….i am heading to Rahuls now…for theres so so so muvh to prep for the get together now…and you both..our guests of honours…try to come soon ok???”
And Khushi sips on her coffee and she keeps it aside on the center table and she gets up and pulls Zara into a hug and she says – “ Zara…thank you so so so much for the wonderful lunch ya…and im going to miss you so so so much…you know that don’t you??”
And Zara hugs Khushi hard and then she pulls back and kisses her forhead and says – “ you don’t thank me..ok….ever…and I am going to miss you so so much too…”,and she now laces her hand through Khushis arm and turns to Arnav, Zain and Asher as she says – “ Hoodie Guy…know this…I am surely going to be a very very regular feature in your life even though you are whisking our Khushi away..im telling you…im surely going to visit like once in every two months maybe…like for sureee….iv already discussed this with Zain…that not just London..he shall have his wife travel to india too often now…hes just goint to have to learn to have to operate long distance…a little..”,she finishes with a wink at Zain.
Zain chuckles as he looks at Arnav and Khushi and winks– “ and we have our Hoodie guy and his Sunshine for inspiration on that now don’t we Zara?? Don’t worry about it and im totally coming along with you to India on thise visits too for a bit…everytime you go..for I cannot go without seeing my little sister for that long now can i??so Arnav I hope you wont mind…”
Arnav chuckles as he admits – “ I would love that…’
Asher smiles to himself warmly , enjoying the warmth of the moment in front of him.
And Khushi immediately now sits next to Zain and hugs him sideways and looks at Arnav and admits with a happy grin – “ hoodie guy..rahul…zain…and now even Ravi…I literally have like three older brothers now..can you beat that??goshh zain..ill miss you soo much too…youv been so so so amazing ya..”
And Arnav asks – “ and I hope all of your travel plans are in place??tickets?? iv taken care of everything else back at home with regrads to accommodation for you all …zain, zara, asher…you will be staying with us obviously at home…no hotel and stuff ok?”
Zara nods excitedly – “ yes hoodie guy…all set…Zain’s the travel freak isn’t he…hes taken care of it all…and we will stay with you…obviously…”
Arnav looks at Asher as he asks – “ Asher you too ok??”
Asher smiles – “ yes yes ok me too…and don’t worry hoodie guy wev taken care of everything …our travel arranagements that is…”
Zara grins as she says – “ well the three of us are landing on the 20th of december though because Anjali was all like Zara atleast you come earlier ya…so yes I convinced Asher and Zain…and uncle , aunty diya and Rahul and the rest are landing on the 22…”
And Arnav grins – “ noted..and I cannot wait…to have you all over…”
Khushi grins and beams at everyone as she says wiping a overwhelmed happy tear– “ you all are amazing…ya….look now I am feeling like that sweet and salty mix of lemonade again ya…”
And everyone shares a warm laugh now.
And Zain chuckles as he ruffles Khushi’s hair and states fondly – “ and miss sweet and salt mix of lemonade … know this that we shall miss you so much not just on a personal level…but Big Bus Cape Town shall miss one of its favourite guides too…but you are totally going to continue fiving me and Asher all those financial advices like you always do…”
And Khushi chuckles now as she looks at Zain and Asher – “ ofcourse ya Zain…asher…as always…like I promised..…”
Zara says – “ ok guys..im off now… I will see you all tonight..come soon ok? Zain , asher the two of you are going to hit wicket post this with Arnav and Khushi right??”
Zain nods as he looks at Zara – “ totally wifey…we have a little business discussuion to continue from the other day…”,and he then winks at Arnav – “ and we are also going to test ASR’s coffee making skills too today…lets see of Varuns taught you well…”
Asher chuckles – “ oh yes…ofcourse…im in…”
Arnav grins and nods – “ yes guys…today is my barista exam then…don’t worry I got this…”
And Zara now hugs Khushi once again and says bye to everyone and Leaves and right then Zain gets a call on his phone and he says to everyone that he gotta take that too – so he walks out the informal living entertainment room in which they were all seated in after lunch chatting – and walks into his study and takes that business call.
And Khushi now looks at Arnav and he nods at her as he understands, and he nods in acknowledgement and Khushi now walkd up and sits next to Arnav and they both look at Asher who was taking a sip of his tea and Khushi says softly – “ I know wev had this conversation before Asher…but once again…I just want to thank you for everything…I mean…especially with how you cleared things to Arnav on that day of the final…I mean…thank you for everything…youv been a very very good friend…and please know this that I wish you nothing but the best always…I truly do wish you all the happiness in the world…”
Arnav says softly – “ we both do…we both wish you nothing but the best always…like I always say..you are a good man…and you desrve nothing but the best..always…”
Asher smiles at the sincere look on Arnav and Khushis face and he keeps his cup aside. Seeing them both so happy together in all this time had greatly helped him too and he was really starting to cope up within and his heart had started to believe that it could move on too and make its path towards finding out the one who was destined for him– infact just last night he had told his ammi that once he was back from Arnav and Khushis wedding – he would be ready to meet the matches she had shortlisted out for him – and in his heart he knew that he would then be able to accept someone entering his life with a open heart which would be only fair to this person – who was yet to make her entry into his life.
Asher smiles and says looking at the two – “ thank you…to you both for your wonderful wishes…but like iv mentioned to you both always…please don’t need to thank me..at all…khushi wev been good friends and we will always be…and you both already know this but I will say it again..I want you guys to be happy…and …I am ok…totally ok…don’t woryy about me at all…please…and know this that I wish you both nothing but the best always… ”
Arnav grins as he nods and so does Khushi as they say in unison – “ we know that…”,and Arnav now gets a thought and he looks sideways at Khushi and winks at her mischeviously and asks her to play along and Khushi nods puzzled and then Arnav looks at Asher as he states – “ Asher…you know what.. you are coming to India soon…and you do know a lot of matchmaking happens during weddings…so if you don’t mind…me and Khushi would like to help your ammi on those regards…if we spot someone whom we think you might like then…totally allow us to play cupid…”
Khushi looks from Arnav to Asher and she says excitedly – “ ohhhh hoodie guy I cant believe you got this idea and not me…ok..doesnt matter…same thing…Asher…you tell me…what do you think of the idea…us playing around cupid for you…cmon itll be fun..”
Asher grins as he says – “ ok that’s not a bad idea actually…im open to it..lets see if the two of you can spot out the one destined for me…”
Khushi grins – “ oh you bet we will…”,and she gets up and states excitedly – “ im so barging in on Zains business call and telling him this…right now…and texting the same to Zara too…”,and she runs out the room now excited.
And once she is out Arnav gives Asher a warm smile as he asks – “ jokes apart…tell me …this will be ok right??”
And Asher grins – “ totally ok hoodie guy just told ammi just last night that id meet the matches shes shortlisted out for me after I return from your wedding…I am going to move on with a open mind and heart now surely hoodie guy…”
Arnav smiles as he says honestly – “ and you have no idea how happy I am to hear that…”
Asher grins at Arnav – “ and to be honest to you…seeing the two of you so happy with each other has helped me cope up…so that’s why I truly do mean it when I say that I wish you both nothing but the best…”
Arnav grins and he says – “ thank you so much Asher…”,and they both now get up and start to make their way out to find Zain and Khushi,
Asher grins as he asks Arnav on the way – “ oh and hoodie guy…you wouldn’t mind making me like two cups of those coffees today…would you???”
Arnav chuckles as he admits honestly – “ I wouldn’t mind at all…my friend…I wouldn’t mind at all..”
…………………………….
11: 00 PM
Khushi’s POV
GUYSSSS!
Guess what??
What am I sipping on for Reaal right now??
Ha!
The Sweet&Salt Mix of Lemonade for real!
Haha!
I walked into the kitchen to make this for myself about five minutes ago!
And right now..as I was making my way back out..I’m just tempted to stand here and pause a little at this entry door to Rahuls backyard and patio and just take in the Scene in front of me of My Hoodie Guy mixing up and chatting up and partying with all my near and dear ones – and my Heart Glows with Love!
Like everyone is here....Uncle ...Aunty..diyas parents....some of their friends too...and Rahul, diya, asher,zain,zara,siya,sameer,armaan, jack,stacey,varun and Tina and all of Rahuls friend circle too whom iv known over the years not like very closely but yes like good friends...literally everyone is here guys...Uncle and aunty and their friends are chilling indoors and all of us the younger lot is in the backyard – with karioke going on and everyone is now taking turns to sing in groups..and the rest are hooting and cheering and some are dancing and the whole atmosphere is warming my heart way too much ya guysss....I wipe a sweet and Salty tear which has come up in one of my eyes!
So.
And Dinner was fantastic ofcourse...turns out it was like a complete Pot Luck get together as literally everyone who came in brought in something or the other a starter,a side dish, a main dish or dessert and then obviously they all had Me and Arnav cut a cake which aunty and Diya had baked which read – To Hoodie Guy and His Uber Girl/Sunshine – We wish You All the Very Best! And then theres this huge banner in this backyard that says – We will Miss You Khushi!
And right then a memory flashes through my head- Remember guys a long time ago on Diyas bday party in this very spot...with all of the same people who are in front of me right now and I saw My Hoodoe Guy on the Screen for the very first time and at that time i was totally thinking to myself – that Our worlds are so so so different and all wondering about where were we headed back then...and then he'd also made that comment about Cape Town for the first time on TV...remember??
Yeah so that very Memory warms up my Heart as I see the present in front of me...look at how far have we both actually come...from that point in time to this! And everything was possible because we both held onto that faith in our bond in our Hearts – Always and we held on tight and Never let Go – and I thank God one more time for blessing me with this Man who really was someone to Whom- My heart and Soul is going to stay DEVOTED TO FOREVER AND BEYOND!
( MY DEAREST GODS.....PLEASE TAKE NOTE ON THE SAME!)
And oh guys on that Note!
I forgot to tell you all that the evening at Hit Wicket was absolutely amazing too...and I shall very happily tell you all that Varun has been successful in teaching the perfect blend of the coffee that I first served up to My Hoodie Guy and Arnav ofcourse couldnt stop gloating about it happily as he made it for us all – as in for me,zain,varun,jack,stacey and Asher! And will you all beat this...he literally favoured Asher and served him two cups!I am telling you guys at this rate ..Asher and Arnav are going to be like the best of friends soon...and yes on that note ...my cupid mode is full on mode for Asher now.....like can you believe it Arnav thought of this idea first??
Ha!
Damm you Hoodie Guy!
MAGICAL DUMBLEDORE you!!
And oh on that Note.
The look on uncle, aunty,zara,asher,zain and Diya and Rahuls face when Arnav talked to Rahul in the living area before everyone else arrived about the wish of wanting to take Hit Wicket Youur tongue to India – and he was all like to everyone that since he knows that how much I had worked on emotionally within for cricket and him and then had been led by my emotions to conceptualize Hit WICKET and now again I was also moving away from that..and my entire life and friends that were family...to India just for him...so he would be very Happy if he could help me take a part of that emotion that we both have attached to Hit Wicket Your tongue to India with Us too eventually and then he requested Rahul and Uncle for the permission as in the license to use the same brand name and Rahul was like stumped with Happiness and he was like totally Hoodie guy..whatever this donkey decides...we are with her...hit wicket has always been her baby and Uncle was all like Khushi beta all that I have saved for your wedding ..I’d like to gift it to you so that you could as an investment along with your savings too in setting up at Hit WICKET in India..and I was obviously so so touched that I couldnt say No at all! And then I told them all that I had some financial plan in my head for the same that I would dilute my stake in hit WICKET cape town and hand that to Rahul .....and then Rahul was like yes yes donkey...dont get your ffinance and accounting brains working now...for we will figure it all out after youv settled in there well...right now your headed for a big change...just enjoy that but with your Hoodie Guy and guess what Khushi you were right all along – your Hoodie Guy maybe really is a magician of the Hearts...hes won us over and dont you blame us for siding with him now!And literally everyone agreed with Rahul on that and Arnav couldnt stop grinning...and well neither could I – to be honest – with those sweet and salty tears in my eyes.
Ohh Mommy, Daddy and Krish...tomorrow is such a big day as I take a step forward to fly to the other side of the Globe with Arnav...where the Sun may rise at a different time...but it’s still the same Sun in its DNA!
Remember once in a emotional text to Arnav( before we got together) I wrote something like – Hoodie guy...maybe I’m just supposed to be that Sunshine that’s destined to rise at this side of the world..far away from yours!
My heart warms up again - Look at the Journey wev made to finally come to this!
Godammit I love you Hoodie guy!
And my chain of thoughts is now broken as I feel a familiar pair of arms go around my waist and I snuggle into Arnavs arms now as I whisper – “ hey you....when did you come...iv been standing right here...I didnt spot you...”
He chuckles into my ear as he whispers – “ that’s becuase you Sunshine were lost into deep thought...I thought let me just check on you...you ok???”
And I snuggle into his arms now and tighten my one hand over his hands on my waist and I admit – “ yes love...all ok...”
And he asks softly now- “ are you drinking the lemonade Sunshine?”
And I nod as I say taking a sip of my lemonade – “ yes Hoodie guys the sweet and salt mixed one...you want some??”
He chuckles and kisses my cheek – “ofcourse...I want some..if you’ll share Sunshine...”,he chuckles.
And I hand him my drink and i look at him sideways as he sips on it and I say softly – “ thank you for everything Hoodie guy.....”
And he finishes up my drink and places on the table at the side and he grins and winks at me and whispers in my ears – “ did i just hear a thank you Sunshine...? Aha..you know what happens when you thank me dont you?? You get fined for it heavily in our Carnaging sessions...”,and I chuckle as I admit softly turning to whisper in his ears – “ well I dont remember minding you fine me for that...so yeah...”
And he chuckles and whispers in my ears – “ godammit you...you FREAKING drive me nuts...” and right then our conversation is abducted as Rahuls voice comes through on the kaiorke mike now and he clears his throat as he says – “so as you all know...our Khushi Is off tomorrow with her Hoodie Guy...and well most of you know that I always call her donkey fondly...and she calls me Monkey...cmon here donkey and Hoodie guy...”
And everyone laughs now and so do me and Arnav as he now laces my hand through his as he says softly – “cmon then let’s go up front...”, and I nod at Arnav as we hold hands and walk up front and Join everyone and Zara and Diya come to my other side immediately and Zara laces her arm through mine and Diya laces her arms through hers and Rahul now continues – “ so...like I was saying..this donkey...has always been like my little sister ...wev always been family and now that shes being whisked away to the other side of the globe by none other than ASR my cricketing god...I mean guys...cmon...dotn blame me for it sometimes feel like a dream..for you all know how crazy a fan iv been..I mean now that I have seen the video of the reveal like a zillion times...I mean guys..only I know how didnt I get a heart attack out of happiness in the stadium for real....” , and we all laugh now and Rahul laughs too and then continues- “.and now that I look back..the first time ASR you made the comment about Cape Town on TV...we were all gathered right here...in this very spot...it was Diyas bday party and I was all like whooooo guysss he just mentioned our city on TV...and well I know now...the reason why you said that...I just want to ask you one thing for sure...I mean..how is it that you fell in love with this donkey again??”
And we all laugh out loud and Arnav chuckles too and I gape at Rahul and I state sticking out my tongue at him – “ I will kill you Monkey...”
And Rahul chuckles as he says softly – “ well jokes apart...I just want to take this moment to say..that even though I dont say this out to you often Khushi...you truly are an angel..a very rare and a priceless person...and your heart is gold...and I’m so glad that ASR knows that and he loves you for who you are...and after spending all these days with him...as your family we are only sure that hes going to keep him very very happy...always...”
And Arnav chuckles as he says out loud looking at everyone – “ always guys...always...”
And Rahul now chuckles as he winks at Arnav – “ or you know Hooodie Guy...I still got that bat in the closet...”
And we all laugh out loud now again and Arnav says with a grin – “ noted...totally and now that i have played with it...I know the weight of it...so dont worry...”
And we all laugh again and I hug Arnav immeditely and he kisses my head lovingly and Rahul says softly – “ I will miss you so very much donkey....we all will..everyday...for you really have been the sparkle of all our lives too in your own unique ways too...but know this...no one can be more happier than me to know and process the fact that you were always destined to be ASR's Sunshine...and now it’s time for you to fly out to the other side of the globe and start afresh and we all wish you nothing but the best always...love you donkey...always..”
And now I go up and hug Rahul instantly and I say – “ love you Monkey always...”
And I now start meeting everyone and everyones wishing me all the very best and then to Arnav too and as i wipe those sweet and salty tears outta the corners of my eyes as I hug Zara,diya and Zain and Rahul in a group hug...i see my Hoodie Guy signal me from across that I shouldn’t wipe my tear ..rather just let them flow.
And I nod as i let the Sweet and Salt TEARS flow out of my eyes!
And my Heart Glows as my eyes lock with Arnavs across in an intent eye lock as he his eyes send out a comforting hug and kiss to me and I nod back at him in acknowledgement to tell him that i understood what he wanted to convey to me!
AND MY HEART SWELLS IN A EMOTION THATS SO SO SO SWEET ALL OVER AGAIN THAT IT TOTALLY STARTS TO BALANCE OUT THE SALTINESS OF MY TEARS.
YOU KNOW JUST LIKE HOW IN THAT PERFECT MIXED LEMONDAE- THE SWEET AND SALT BALANCE EACH OTHER PERFECTLY That the BLEND RESULTS IN SUCH A REFRESHING TASTEFUL COOLER??
AND IN THIS MOMENT I CANT HELP BUT THINK THAT MANY MOMENTS IN ALL OUR LIVES WILL BE LIKE THIS VERY LEMONADE OF SWEET AND SALT – AND maybe a Way out in such a case would be – instead of focussing on the ratio of the sweet and salt – if we just think about how wonderful its blend tastes - we can choose to savour the drink with every sip and store its taste on your taste buds and let them take in the memory for themselves..anyway!
And so that’s What I do...I Smile through my mixed Tears and Store them as a Memory of the moment In time – when my emotions were totally all like that Sweet & Salt Mix of the Lemonade – there’s salt and there’s sweetness and even though the salty and sweet mixture has been see-sawing in different ratios all of today...one thing remained common anyway and that’s the thing I’m going to Focus On.
The Thing – that no matter what the ratio of the Sweet and Salt – This Lemonade of my Emotions in My Heart – TasteS and FeelS - Blissful and Wonderful!!
.....................
Tadaaaaaaa!!!!!!!
Let me know what you all think as always!
Thank you to all of you for your love and support and your precious time into my work …means a lot lot to me!
And Also – Please note that I shall be Posting A Picture Note Tomorrow – showcasing Photos of the Majestic Raizada Mansion – you know just for better reading experience post that.
Thanks Guys.
Much Love
Always.
………………………………………….
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Jai Shri Ram @SoniRita
+ 32
1 years ago
Loved the update. Wow what an idea by ASR to open Hit wicket restaurant in Ind too.