Chapter 52(according to the Index Out for the StOry this is Chapter 50)

Hello everyone

thank you so so smuch to everyone for the wonderful wishes for my elder Daughter on her Bday that was on Saturday!

And I am now back with the Update

Monday night as I mentioned in replies to comments – guys..but yes..i know it got pushed late into the night..oops..but still Monday night technically.

Its 15k plus words guys.

Prepare yourselves for a Rollercoaster ride guysss – you know as the title suggests...hehe...ok and now I shall let you all dive in without further delay!

Havent proofread guys – please ignore editing errors.

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CHAPTER 50 – A SUDDEN STORM THROUGH THE CAPE OF MY HEART

12 Days Later

18th December - Sunday

ARNAV'S POV

9:30 PM

I give Ravi nod as he tells me that he needs to excuse himself off the dinner table and take that call from his dad and I smile at Dad who grins at me gesturing to me that he was absolutely enjoying the dinner time with everyone and I nod back at him in acknowledgement of the same, taking the last bite of my Dessert now – and I cant help but grin to myself as a mischevious thought crosses my head.

And My eyes fall on My Precious Sunshine , who is sitting right opposite me and is still finishing on her bowl of the Custard,Fruits and Jelly pudding and is in a conversation with Anjali and Mom and Dadi with regards to the Wedding Preps that have been in like full swing – for the last 12 days!!!

And I text her now.

Me : You haven't texted Me in An Hour Sunshine! You gotta pay up a Heavey fine...Tonight( I add a wink emoticon)

I see her immediately pick her phone up and she reads my text now and she looks at me from across her eyes narrowing at me with amusement and I see her type into the phone.

I get a quick reply.

Her : hoodie guy..you just need a excuse to fine me ya...not that I am complaining...but love I have been in front of you for the last hour literally...that's why no..and that is a fair point to be noted Love –so I quite do not understand the context of my fine...but I shall process it anyway...(she adds a blushing emoticon)

I quickly reply : well...yes technically you've been in front of me but I do not have your undivided attention now do I?? Actually I haven't had your undivided attention since 5pm today Sunshine...ofcourse I'm going to fine you!for after tea time..you were like super engrossed in playing chess WITH Dad in His study and as much as the sight warmed my heart...I was completely jealous of the board game in the moment...and well after that..all through out later..you were busy chatting with Dadi and mom, and anjali whilst I chilled with Ravi..and now again at dinner..youv been busy with everyone..and have only been smiling and looking at me and talking to me in between as per in context of family time...and so ofcourse...now that I have recalled all of the above your fine kind of doubles up tonight sunshine with a sweet twist.Ask me what?

And I Tap send and I see Khushi quickly read my text and right then Mom also asks her something and she answers her and then quickly replies : ( I get a line of blushing smiles and hearts ) ohh godammit you.. what sweet twist are you talking about Hoodie Guy??

I smile do myself as I quickly reply : I am totally going to ask HP to save you some this delicious pudding and ask him to have it placed in your pantry mini fridge after dinner ! I HAVENT HAD A DESSERT OFF YOU...IN FOREVER SUNSHINE...AND I DEFINETLY FEEL LIKE JUST THAT TONIGHT!I AM SURE YOU REMEMBER THE REVISION SESSION WITH YOUR TIRAMASU CAKE..well but this one will surely be stepped up...you know since now I am allowed to explore all of You.

I smile to myself as I tap send and I see Khushis eyes widen to cups and saucers as she reads my text and I control my laugh as she reaches for her glass of water immediately and she gulps it down so fast and Mom looks at her as she asks momentarily concerned – " khushi...beta you ok??", and she nods back adorably continuing to sip on her water and I bite back my smile as I watch her gulping down the full glass.

And right then I see her type into the phone, and I get a quick reply.

Her : hoodie guy...are you insane?..you just didnt write that to me like right now over dinner ya with everyone..I still cant get over our session from last night...you freaking didn't let any of us get any sleep till 4am!( add she adds a line of blushing embarrassed emoticons)

I quickly reply : well dont I always say.. Insaner me dammit...Sunshine!( I add a wink emoticon) And ofcourse Saturday nights call for special treats Sunshine...and so do Sundays...so yes..be ready to be Carnaged Insane..I am bring fair and square by giving you a heads up as always( I add a wink emoticon).

And my phone beeps now.

Her : you kill me ya Hoodie guy..(I get lines of hearts and blushing smilies)

And I give her a wink from across and right then Ravi walks back and then we all finish with dinner and desserts and get together in the informal living area and we connect with everyone back in CAPE town on a quick video call.

And once me and Ravi and Dad have finished talking to everyone – Dad says that he wants to discuss something with Ravi in private in his study( I think it's about Anjali) and I see Ravi exchange a loving reassuring look with my sister and then Dad and Ravi... both leave and then I do make my way to freshen up as I see that Khushi, Mom and Anjali are busy in the video call discussing preps with Raima aunty, Diya and Zara on the video call still – and reconfirming their travel itineraries since Zara,Zain and Ashher were landing like day after.

Okkkk then.

Guys.

I think I can do a quick recap and give you all a Glimpse of all that has happened in the last 12 days.

Sooo Yesss.

My Sunshine totally gets Hijacked by Mom and Anjali and Dadi ever since breakfast time and then that goes on like all through out the day as the wedding preparations are in full swing - sometimes they hijack her away for meetings with the event teams because they obviously wants her opinions on what she feels and MY precious Sunshine is always like – Mom...I am totally in with whatever all of you elders Decide – you know since Mom and Anjali have been in touch WITH Raima aunty and Diya too back in CAPE town with regards to the same – and then on other days they whisk My Sunshine away on a shopping spree for her outfits with respects to the Wedding Functions – and it's like a top notch amongst the three now as they wont even give me a heads up off what Khushi is going to be wearing( can you imagine..the three of them have ganged up on me on this..they do not give me a hint...) – not even Khushi..shes been gulping down a lot of Digeins.. though and she keeps telling Me ...Hoodie Guy Please dont ask ya...you know I cannot keep anything from you anyway and I do want you to see me Like on those Days finally so please...and because the gentleman I am..I did agree to not question her further on the same...provided she agrees to get fined Heavily in Return in our Carnage Sessions later on in the nights...which she obviously agrees too by giving me dramatic adorable expressions as always!

And then when they are not out...Khushi is busy bonding with Dadi as she listens to her Music classes to keenly and sometimes even sings along with Dadi later on in practice sessions for the next day ....and know this guys....until Khushi none of us were ever allowed to sit WITH Dadi in her music class...she would always be like you all will distract me...haha..and I'm so so happy to see that MY Sunshine Sunshine that levy with her...Dadi absolutely adores her guys...and when it's not bonding with Dadi...Khushi likes to spend her time bonding with Mom and Anjali at home too as they all literally swim together every evening in our indoor pool as like a devoted – all girl workout time – and other than that they are always bonding over wedding preps...or other homely stuff...and then ofcourse Dad loves to play chess with Khushi everyday too..and it totally warmed her up when he asked her to play with him.( I did let him on the fact that Khushi and her daddy would always play a lot of chess together ..and he was all like..finally I get to have a partner who can help me revisit the game I havent played in ages...so yes guys that happens like everyday and Khushi and Dad both love it...its like their time together – I mean we all sit and watch them play sometimes...because the sight warms all our hearts and also guys MY Sunshine joins Dad on his morning walks too on alternate Days – and dad absolutely loves it and he spends all that time talking to Khushi about her work experiences in Cape Town – and trust me guys when I say this – Dad is like super impressed by Khushi's intelligence and he also told her like yesterday morning that he was very happy about Hit Wicket your tongue and was sure that Hit Wicket Your tongue would be like a roaring Hit in here and then all over India too – which made Khushi very very happy ofcourse and she couldnt stop gushing about how Dad was so warm and sincere and loving and so so grounded too.

And guys Yesterday evening too- Khushi was all like extra emotional because Mom wore Khushis Mom stoll as they went out during the day and then later once they were home Khushi saw Dad sign some papers with Her Daddys Ink pen and she came and hugged me so tight with overwhelmed happy tears after that as she told me that her heart was bursting with Happiness – as she also noticed that her Moms bracelet was being worn by Mom everyday too and Anjali was also using Krishs stationary in her sketches and Dadi ofcourse had the Radha krishna murthy next to her bed side table and she had also been wearing the stoll – and Khushi was all like..hoodie guy..I feel like Mom, dad and Krish are here..like a part of us all right now too.

AND because she was all emotional.. she definetly made us all emotional too over dinner as she exclaimed how all of us were like majestic banyan trees because of how grounded we were and she couldnt thank god for blessing her with such a loving family and she thanked everyone so sincerely for using all her gifts and then she also cried a little in Mom and Dads,anjali and dadis arms as they group hugged her ,telling them – that it's because of their warmth and love that she was sure that her family was Literally dancing up in the Heavens right now totally feeling like a part of all the wedding preparations too.

God this Girl – so it isnt just me ok guys..she touches a zillion non existent emotional heartstrings in all of my family members hearts too!

God I Love Her!

Okkk so yes Guys coming to what iv been upto in the last 12 days – since we are on a little break in our schedule with the matches...Iv been catching up with Dad in office ...along with my fitness regimes and then net practices too with the team in between on and off as usual – during all of my last 12 days too.

And guys another thing I love...so usually when I return Home in the evenings with Dad from office ...I have My Sunshine come to the main door everytime herself as she opens the door for me and greets me with that Twinkle in her eyes and her Wonderful Smile that I am a Goner for anyway – and I love it....exactly what I want to come Home to Everyday Guys – and then on the days we are home first before them – I totally open the Door to my Sunshine, mom and Anjali and welcome them Home too!

Haha!

They love it too.

But usually after that as we all get back Home we usually are just busy with everyone as we all sit and chat and discuss the respective of our days and after Dinner time and Some Chatting Up After , and when everyone retires for the Night – Is when i finally get My Sunshine all to myself!

And by the end of the day – that's what I look forward to Insanely anyway and so I sneak up to her floor almost immediately and we spend an hour or so in each other arms...talking personally now and catching up with the other about the rest of the day( and for the last five days especially ...MY Sunshine has been there for me in every way.. hearing me out..listening to my most innermost thoughts that I havent voiced out to anyone and then being subtly supportive as always and I shall get to the details of this in a bit since it's very important...) but before I get I that.. you all must know that all of our talking happens all over her floor because she says Hoodie guy you got this space done up for me with so much love ..I would want us to spend time and make memories in like every nook and corner so Sometimes we are talking by lounging on the futon sofa in her study space which she has set up so adorably with all her stuff ...or sometimes in the living space as we cuddle on the sofa with a cup of hit coffee..or then sometimes on that Swing bed on the outdoor patio or sometimes by standing on the terrace looking into the skyline and just enjoying standing against the railings and looking out enjoying each others embrace and or sometimes while we chat - My Precious Sunshine will want to Play Hopscotch on the Chess Board edged out on the terrace for Fun – and then once we are done with our catching up...I whisk her up in my arms to her Room and I most definitely make sure that I Carnage her Insanely for a couple of hours before we finally doze off into a peaceful slumber in each others arms – and then my Sunshine will wake me up at around 7am and will ask me to make my way down to my room in that adorable sheepish tone of hers – shying away from meeting my eyes as she remembers our heated moments from the night before.

Haha!

Loveeeeeee Itt.

And now as I step out the washroom...my phone beeps.

And I unlock my screen to see a MESSAGE from Cap – as he was reconfirming our meeting at the BCCI headquarters tomorrow here in Delhi with Coach,the chief selectors and officials – for 11:00 am.( It was going to be 7 of us in the meeting tomorrow – coach, me,cap,bcci president and vice president and the two chief selectors – but no one else apart from Cap and Me had a clue what this meeting is about...I had asked Cap to schedule one with everyone but we havent yet revealed the agenda of our discussion yet – it's in between of us)

And I quickly text him to confirm the same as we decide that we will leave together.

And I now finally make my way back to everyone and the video call is still on with everyone back in Cape Town and I wink and smile at Khushi from across as I take my seat and then browse through my phone and my thoughts divert to the only – crucial inner thought conflict that I have been facing within for the last five days( remember how I mentioned a little before this point that I have been discussing this with Khushi a lot since the last five days and shes been like my pillar of rock and strength as always being so subtly supportive and loving- so guys – all of this is with regards to my decision in regards to my Future With Cricket.

So A Little Glimpse into the Context.

Guys Cap returned from His family home, back to Delhi about six days ago and the very next day – I went to Meet Cap at his place over an evening Tea with Khushi and Khushi and Sachi maam and Zoya spent time catching up in the meanwhile Cap and me got talking in His Study and first thing out I confessed to him about the fact that I had always planned about stepping back from the games when I was 30 and I explained him the context – but he was obviously shocked and surprised because he was like what???? Arnav this iss like a bouncer to my head right now becuase I never expected to hear this...and then I asked him about his plans because i told him it was important for us to now open up to each other about the same so that we could take this strategically and smoothly from here and then obviously what Cap said next came as a Bouncer to My Head – because he started with a lot of seriousness that He wants to Step Down as Captain after the January surely and then he will announce his retirement from International cricket in the next two months post that – like around the end of March ..because Coack asked him off that and requested him not to quit both the captaincy and the team at the same time and that Coach wanted Cap to be in the team for atleast two months so that new Captain could soak in the new role and seek his assistance in the process too and then once that was settled,he would step away from International Cricket for good. And he also mentioned that both Coach and Cap had been discussing about the fact that they both along with the BCCI wanted to see Me – take over from Cap as the Captain of the Indian Cricket team- in all the three formats of the Game (since split Captaincy never worked with out teams culture and dynamics and have Shiv come in along side me as the Vice Captain)

And to be honest guys – listening this from Cap on such a serious note did Come as Bouncer to My Head for the situation was now obviously more complex to handle – because If Cap and me both stepped down in like a matter of months – it would indeed cause a lot of chaos in the Public eye and also affect the Team not really performance wise because we have such talented players otherwise and so much new talent coming up all the time that needs to be given chances too...but more so from the point of Team culture and dynamics within our bind for we were a close knit unit and everyone would feel flabbergasted emotionally if Cap and Me both sat back – and Cap pointed the same thing too and he said- " ASR..we gotta think this through.. because we are in a very good space on the ICC rankings in all the three formats and specially after the World CUP win and as much as I understand your reasons ...I di with for you to continue playing because this is not my soft corner talking...its the fact that in the last year my belief has really strengthened that You will be an excellent Captain..and specially how you played that Final...I totally see you as stepping into my shoes for as much as I wish I could continue longer...my age and fitness/health is reaching to the point when I cant push it further....and I think it's for the best ASR...its about time I give the rest to the Bat..its been a wonderful journey and I know it's time to Step back...but it's my time to Call in...and Not yours surely ASR...your best is yet to come my friend and trust me when I say this...I see you breaking records...not just as Captain but as a batsmen too...And then also as a bowler ...you do know that off late the bowling coach and coach sir have been having these discussions to take you on as a full time bowler too..and only fair..for your arms have been wonderful with both the bat and ball...you will be an excellent Leader for Indian cricket right now ASR..its exactly what the country needs...and so with deep conviction I say this that it's my time to stand up and your time to jump right in...my health is a deciding factor Arnav...the wear and tear of two decades into international cricket has gotten onto me now..."

I know what he means guys – for he is 8.8 years older to Me – He is almost 39! And I totally understand where he is coming from and that is why I told him that I will obviously think this through- I did tell him that I could rethink the thought of continuing playing but I was still unsure about Captaincy – as in it wasnt that I didnt beleive that I couldnt do it – because off late in the last year I had evolved a lot in terms of my game and gaming strategy too and learning to adapt to pressure situations ever more...but it was also because it was difficult for me to Imagine MY self in his Shoes for good – for I had never played under anyone else as Captain – only him – and he was My Hero and MY inspiration in so many ways and I learnt so much from him in so many ways – it was emotionally impossible for me to digest the fact that he would be gone off the team soon! AND THEN CAP WAS ALL LIKE – Arnav i know you have high regard for me as your Captain..you always did..and know that just as you are emotional about me and my position in the team...so is the team and me emotional about your position in it...so please think this through.. and I told him to give me about four to five days time to jus think this through.

I was obviously in deep thought as we had left Cap's and I had shared everything with MY Sunshine on the way back and she was so subtly supportive and was all like...dont worry Hoodie Guy..be calm and let's think this through...and i am with you on whatever your decide...and she held my hand all the way as always and once we reached Home – I finally discussed the situation with everyone – Dad, Mom,Anjali,Dadi and Ravi...revealing everything of my discussion with Cap too, and to say that Ravi was beyond appaulled too would be an understatement – because he was obviously surprised and angry that I had never mentioned this too him and he was all like – No way Arnav..you cant FREAKING quit the game right now...we all are expecting Cap's retirement because hes going to be 39 soon..its going to be difficult to digest but in our heads we all know as in wev seen it coming but not Yours , the team will suffer a big blow emotionally and mentally if the Captain and the Vice captain call it quits around the same time – and I think his reaction as a fellow team member worried the hell out of Dad ,mom,anjali and Dadi too – and they were all like Arnav wev been asking you to keep thinking this through anyway...please think over again and then I just told them all to relax and told them that I needed some time to just think over this for some time for I had never imagined continuing beyond 30! And everyone was like ok – please think this through Arnav ...we dont want you to make hasty decisions...please.

And Guys as I always say – MY Sunshine knows me through and through too..it was only later that night as she hugged me from the back in our private time at night when I was looking out the terrace deep in thought- she asked me to voice out the thought that was making me edgy – the thought I was not voicing out to anyone else , the thought she had sensed – and she was right about it ofcourse because I am.only human after all...I have my own set of insecurities too at times.

And i had hugged her hard then and confessed the reason for my edginess.

Guys – I have been playing Cricket all my Life...and professionally for India ever since I was 18 – and as I am nearing 30 now...its like 12 years of my life have all been about cricket and the games...and as much as devoted I am to the sport and deeply gratitude to all the love that's showered on me publically - the 12 years of the hectic lifestyle that I have been living with the constant touring and travelling...being away from home, family, living in hotels etc,...obviously does feel overwhelming at times – and now I was just feeling edgy because in my head I was prepped to step back and live a more stable lifestyle post 30 and now all of a sudden I have to process this thought of continuing longer and as much as I love cricket – I was going to need sometime to process the fact the hectic lifestyle that came along with it was what I'd have to continue living for a bit – and then ofcourse the expectation with the captaincy position would also make everything more hectic mentally too and then ofcourse there was still my promise to Mom and Dadi and no matter how much everyone wanted me to think differently now - the fact remained that Dad did need additional support by his Side too.

My Sunshine heard me out completely and then understood ofcourse tooo and the best part she was all like – Hoodie guy I understand only natural for you to feel this way and trust me on the fact that you have my unconditional support and love no matter what you decide and then she took my Hand and then took us In and gave me an amazing Head Massage in a lloving and caring silence that anyway spoke a thousand words and then she asked me to rest my head in her Lap as she brushed her fingers through my hair and just asked me to relax and not get so tensed about all of this ..that everything everything would be ok...and whilst she was at it showering me with so much love in the moment-she was all like Hoodie guy just incase you are worried about me...please dont be...we are now getting married and i think you are partly worried about the impact the continuation of this hectic lifestyle can have on US and then she looked into my eyes and cupped my face and was all like – " my Hoodie guy...for us nothing will ever change...just look at how insane and crazy we are about each other.. and we have like the Oscar's in making long distance work...and it will always remains tight and thick that way..you do know that as much as we both think that it's impossible for us to get any closer because we are already so close...we are getting closer by the second that its magically insane now ..its like sorcery of love on another levels now ya Hoodie guy...dont you worry at all about Us or Me.. incase you'd decide to continue which I do hope you do because you love cricket so muchh too and i do not want you to regret this..now even Everyone else is like asking you to look at this differently and seriously especially after the way Ravi reacted and once they heard what Cap had to say...and Love.. I know familys are allowed to visit...and I told you I can fly around as much now..I could live in the planes now...i will be with you as much as I am allowed to be without it being a distraction and as per the rules...and to be honest Hoodie guy...the final decision is obviosuly yours ...but I do want to let you know that I am very tempted by the thought of you continuing too because well...I do want to watch more of your matches Live from the stadiums...as your wife too...and uptil now..i have only seen one which was surely the most epic one but still...so..." , and I obviously didnt let her get another word out that night as I was so emotionally moved by her unconditional love and support as always and i Carnaged her way too intensely and Insanely until the wee hours of the morning that night.

And ever since then..wev also spent the last four nights talking and discussing this out over and over...aand in my head because off her constant love and unconditional support – I am kind off feeling a lot coped up with the possibility of having to continue playing( still very worried about having to ditch on my promise to Mom,dadi and Dad) - and I am still not sure about captaincy though emotionally – and I asked Cap to call this meeting with everyone and the officials because I do want to discuss this now with them too.

My chain of thoughts is now broken as I feel Khushi's hand lace into my free hand as she comes to sit next to me on the side and kisses my hand and she asks softly – " hey you Hoodie guy...you ok???"

I look to my side to see Mom and Anjali hanging up on the video call now.

I nod as I smile – " yes sunshine..just thinking about tomorrow.. got Caps message about tomorrows meeting at the BCCI.."

She kissed on my hand again and smiled -"Love..it will be ok...just relax...just be true to your heart..I know you are worried about Dad...but know this he is equally worried about you...you do know he discussed this with me the other day on the walk too..i told you..he is very serious that he does not as t you to quit now....and hes even discussed that with you..so have Mom,Dadi and Anjali...."

And I nod at her and kiss her hand and before I can say anything, Ravi comes through into the area now grinning and he states looking at Anjali andd Me – " I love your Dad..he is bloody brilliant...come on in you all..he wants us all in his study right now...we have a important matter to discuss..cmon fast.. dadi is already in the study too...and now you all come.."

We all look at him puzzled and Khushi smiles at me and lace our hands together and we just nod at each other and make our way into Dads Study – along with Mom, Anjali and Ravi.

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

Arun Raizada smiles to himself as he watches everyone settle on the round circular seating in his Study...his beautiful wife Ravina looking at him puzzled and confused as she gestured to ask him with a move of the eye – to knoww what this was about and he gestures her back that he had finally worked out a solution that they had both been thinking over for thr last five days and that his mother also couldnt be Happier about it...and Ravina understands the gestures obviously and her heart gushes with relief...for a part of her had been so worried for her son with regards to his professional decisions – and she was obviously feeling guilty just like Dadi to ask him off this promise too in the first place and that is why she had asked her Husband to figure this out so that Arnav could continue playing without any worries or guilt about turning away on this promise!

Arun finally looks at the children – Ravi,Anjali,khushi and Arnav...and he feels very happy with the solution his head had come up with.

Arun finally gets up from his Study chair and walks to sit in the wing hair next to the formal area and Arnav looks at his father puzzled still, holding onto Khushis hand amused as he states – "dad...you could surely join theatre too...I mean look at you trying to pull the suspense look and walk on us..cmon tell us what is this about..."

Everyone chuckles and so does Arun as he finally takes his chair and looks at Ravina and he says softly – " go on..I am sure you want to start ..an you my children...we want all of to just hear us out first..."

Ravina takes a deep breathe and she looks at her son – " Arnav...son...we want to apologise...we should have never asked this promise from you..its what put you in this fix of a situation now ..I think it was very selfish of us to ask you to give up on the games by 30..and we know you prepped your head differently always thinking till now that this would be it...but we are all at a common consensus as your family now that your cricketing career has only started peaking now...and we all surely think that You would be great Captain too.....but that decision lies with you ofcourse..what we are saying to you once and for all finally is that...we want you to continue playing...you are blessed to be the boards and the selectors favourite too and also the publics..we dont want to take that away from you just yet...it will be unfair to you..so so unfair..so play some more my son..until theres time.."

Dadi pitches in with a grin – " I ditto to everything Ravina has said Arnav...please continue playing until your age and fitness allows...this business will still be here for you to turn to when that point comes...and know this...I had your grandfather in my dream last night and he was all scolding me ok that iv been enjoying my grandsons game so much now from the Heavens above..and you all better not deprive me off this..I was anyway bummed when Arun quit..because of my untimely departure..and Khushi know this...I think I also saw your daddy and Arnavs grandfather cheers to Arnavs next phase of cricketing innings which will only just begin..."

Khushi clutches on Arnavs hand lovingly and gives him a loving smile and Arnav most definitely returns the gesture.

Arnav finally takes a deep and he says – " Mom...Dadi..."

And right then Arun clears his throat as he says – " hear me out son...hear me our first...I know you made a promise on my accord...and right now I want you to make a promise on my accord again..and that is to totally nullify the first promise for it stands null and void..you come back to the BOARDROOMS for good when your bodys wear and tear and age gives you the signal ok?? And until then just continue as is...the final decision of Captaincy lies with you ofcourse..but know this I have full faith in you...that If anyone can step into Cap- D's legendary golden shoes...it can be You...and I know there'S a part of you that is still worried about me...so for that I have come.up with the perfect Solution...a solution i know you are going to Love..."

Arnav smiles and looks at his father puzzled – " ok dad..lets hear your solution..then.."

And Arun smiles as he says to all , and looks at his daughter lovingly and embarrassed too as he spoke – " so first thing out the reason why I had Ravi come in for a talk with me first...was to know his plans you know with regards to Shifting back to Pune or staying here in delhi even after the two of you settle down which I know will happen soon..and I also wanted to know how Ravi and his family feel about you Anjali continuing to work in our businesses in the way you do...after the wedding..."

Anjali looks at her father and Ravi amused and embarrassed as she states – " wedding.. what wedding Dad...Ravi hasn't asked me yet ok..why would you talk about this to him and build like some unnecessary Daddy pressure on him..."

Arun chuckles now and Ravi smiles at Anjali and he gets up from his seat now and kneels down in front of Anjali and he states with a smile - " well technically Anj...uncles not putting any pressure on me since..I already discussed this with both my parents and your parents..two days ago..that I am very serious about us...I do want us to settle down soon too...I want marriage...i want forever with you...and I was just yet to come around to propose to you yet...and I swear to god I was planning to propose on Arnav and Khushis danger in front of everyone...but well...now due to the pretext of the conversation...the Cat is outta the bag...and know this...that everyone back at home are like elated...they can't wait...and to be honest neither can I...."

Anjali feels overwhelmed emotionally and she looks at Ravi with a amused smile – " so are you saying that youv already asked my parents for my hand in marriage...And that we have your parents blessings too?? And now is this your way of asking me to marry you right now???ravi you do know this kind of goes the other way around...you do need to ask the girl in context first.. I mean what if I say no..and you went through all of this for no reason...", finishes Anjali biting back a smile.

Ravi looks at her horrified and ask pale as a sheet as he asks – " wait??? What??? You dont want to marry me?? You are going to say No Anj..???"

Everyone chuckles and Anjali bites back her smile as she says- " I mean..Ravi...I'm thinking...you havent really Kind of asked yet...so how am I going to say a yes or no.."

Ravi holds her hand as he states feeling a little relieved catching the mischevious look in Anjalis eyes – " ohh well...I did kinda mess it up didnt I...should have totally been the other way around...should have asked you first...but Anj..after the blunder I had committed in the past...I just thought I needed to talk to Uncle and Aunty first...to assure them of my intentions....."

Khushi clutches.on to Arnavs hand lovingly as they both watch on lovingly and Dadi now grins as she says – " oh cmon then Anjali...answer him already..its on your face...he is on his knees..."

Anjali bites back his smile as she states looking at Ravi – " but dadi he still hasn't asked...what do I say??"

Ravi now smiles as he says looking into Anjalis eye – " I love you Anjali more than anything in this world.. and I want to marry you...and as much as I planned this differently in my head I'm going with my heart in the moment and asking this off you...will you Marry me Anjali?"

Anjalis eyes now well up emotionally and she looks around at her family members and they are all smiling at her and gesturing her to finally answer the poor guy and Anjali chuckles ass she says – " yes Ravi...I will marry you...but you gotta gove me atleast six months to that.. ya...I want to enjoy bhais winter wedding right now..and we can have ours in the summer..."

Ravi grins as he immediately hugs Anjali – "ofcourse Anj....ofcourse...thank you so much...you've made me the happiest today.."

And Anjali now hugs him too and Ravi pulls back now and sits next to Anjali holding her hand and he states – " ok so everyone...i was just talking to Dad ..yes I will call him dad now too...so yes I was telling him that I surely Plan to Live in Delhi and not move back into Pune compeltely for mom and dad are happy that my elder brother and my bhabhi are helping out with our familys business back there...and they do know that I have no interest in anything apart from cricket anyway...and they understnad that's it's more convenient for me to Be Stationed in the Capital and they understnad.. well they might ask us to move when me and Anjali have kids eventually..."

And everyone now chuckles as Anjali whacks Ravis arm playfully – " god stop..Ravi..this is embarrasing..."

Ravi chuckles – " well either way..Anjali...I have assured Dad and I am assuring you all too...that neither me of My family back in Pune have any qualms about you continuing with your work as is...as it's been for so many years..."

Anjali now hugs Ravi as she thanks him and then everyone gets up and hugs them both in congratulations and Arnav and Ravi share a long warm hug – for they were now going to be related at a deeper level and Khushi too hugs Ravi and Anjali in a group hug as she feels her heart swell up in Happiness for the two!

After about five minutes of the happy emotions being exchanged.. Arun asks everyone to tale their seats now and they do and Arun looks at Arnav as he states with a grin – " so son...the fact that Anjali will continue to support me in business from one end in the vertical she is already heading along with your mother also still continuing to head the one which has been under her execution for long...I just need to get a couple of COO's as in chief operating officers to just come in and help me steer things around smoothly in the couple of our other verticals and I will also look to hire the right candidates for the same as soon as possible now....so that shares my workload with Regards to the day to day execution....and now coming to perhaps the most important support I need next to me...in terms of the financial management of not just the entire group but all of our individual portfolios too....I have the perfect candidate in mind...who I want to train to take things over from me in that aspect eventually for once I have handed that bit over...I am totally a lot more relaxed and can just continuing supervising on the whole as Chairman...until you my son step in to take over from me...with time..and the one I want to take on board with me for that is none other than your Sunshine..son...Khushi.. she is not just your answer to all your solutions...shes an answer to all of my solutions too.....", Arun finishes with a smile now.

Khushi looks at Arun as she says dazed – " dad??? What??? Me??? How??"

Arnav grins now on reflex as it clicks in his head and heart immediately , because if he had His Sunshine helping his father in there too....he had absolutely no worry left in his heart at all and he answered on reflex - " perfect Dad...just perfect....you are brillaint."

Arun looks at Khushi now and he states – " khushi beta..I known you are overwhelmed..and know this you are the apt choicee for this in every way..you are very intelligent and very hardworking, and compassionate too...you have all the knowledge that is needed for this...and I will train you right under me...as my right hand on this...you have nothing to worry about...for I know you will learn quick...and ofcourse because you are quite the successful multitasker as we all know...you shall continue with the business plans for Hit Wicket your tongue too...because as much as if spoken to you in the last couple of days...I'm pretty sure that you coming in to help me on alternate days also will work perfectly...you are a talent powerhouse my daughter and it's about time you come on board and Help Us all out too..."

Ravina grins – " a perfect solution Arun.."

Anjali – "dad this is perfect indeed...if Khushi comes on board too..it will be like half your pressure is eased out..."

Dadi beams in Happiness- " I think its the best solution at hand too...khushi beta..all you girls in the family take it in your hand to support Arun so that this grandson of mine can go around playing with his bat and ball until the time comes when the BCCI will cancel his contract because hes too old to run in between those wickets..let him then return to the BOARDROOMS for good...", she finishes with a chuckle.

Khushi looks at everyone zapped and shaken as she now states- " but I dont know if I can live upto the expectation Dad...this is very serious..."

Arun nods – " exactly why you my daughter are the apt choice...you have the capability to learn it all from me and manage it even better...I am telling you...i wouldnt mention it if i hadnt spotted it in you..and i am right here with you..i will guide you at every step..."

Khushi steamers nervously – " I...I..."

And Arnav now turns to Khushi and hold her hands and kisses on them and he says softly looking into her eyes – " khushi..I know this is overwhelming but love no one is a better person for this...you are like the magician taskmaster...iv never seen anyone balancing e things in the way of seen you...we all have faith that you will be able to pull this off....will you do this for me Sunshine..if you join Mom and Anjali in helping Dad...trust me ..i can return to the pitch without any worries or guilt for ditching everyone on the earlier promise...and I will be here too as I'm continuing too be..in between games and matches...please Love...say you will do this for me...please...there isnt anything in the world you wouldn't do for remember????"

Khushi now looks at Arnav and then at everyone overwhelmed and then back at Arnav and his eyes totally convert to her how this was very important to him emotionally and she didnt want him to give up on cricket too and She sighed as she spoke narrowing her eyes at Arnav – " look at you...love...all going on into your mindgame zone with me...I dont know if I'll be good at this..but I am willing to try...but...", and she now turned to everyone and she spoke – " but dad..please look at it as if I am your assistant...like I will assist you in whatever you need...I'll learn it all...but I don't want any other formal designation apart from being your assistant and I will try to do my best to help you as much as I can..."

Arun grinned and Arnav gave him a dad-agree-to this for now look we will convince her later as we go along look , and Arun nodded – " ok fine Khushi...as you want it...so once you both are back from your holidays after the wedding...Arnav returns to the cricket pitch..and you my dear daughter come with me to the Office...and ofcourse the reason why I wanted to have this discussion right now was because I want you Arnav to go meet thr BcCi tomm with a clearer head..with no worries at all...so I guess its decided then Arnav??do you have any worries at all that are left for me to address??"

Arnav grins as he gets up and Hugs Arun – " none dad...no worries ...none left at all...now I can return to the pitch without any worries at all surelyyy..", and he turned to now hug Khushi too as he cupped her face – " thank you Sunshine...you are my destined miraculous solution to everything....godammit...thank you so so so much for this..I know we all emotionally coaxed you into this...but trust me Khushi...you being there with Dad means the world to me..."

Khushi hugs him immediately as she states overwhelmed still – " I know love...I'll try my best...and you know I would do anything for you if this makes you comfortable in your heart and let's you return to the pitches without any worries at all then I will most definetly give it my all too...."

And Arun grins now as he says relieved with a wink at Khushi – " and now I have all the super ladies of my family on board with me...what more do I want..."

And Khushi now hugs everyone and thanks them for their immense faith and trust in her and she promises them that she will try to assist Dad – in the best ways possible always – as asked by him.

And Arnav cant stop smiling as his heart witnesses the sight – His Sunshine had totally saved the day for him again by stepping in to support him exactly where he needed it the Most!

She was his Knight in the Shining Armour – in every way!

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

Twenty Minutes Later

As Arnav and Khushi finally get into the elevator now holding hands , after seeing Ravi off and wishing everyone goodnight – and Anjali had just got off on the first floor - and just as they finally reach Khushi's floor and Khushi steps out completely overwhelmed with emotion still due to the latest development- Arnav immediately hugs her hard to himself and he brushes her hair lovingly – " Sunshine..thank you...thank you so so so godammit much...you have no idea what this means to me...I know you are still overwhelmed and that's why all this silence still and those stumped expressions on your eyes and face...but Love...its the perfect solution indeed...you are my Knight in the bloody shining armour Khushi – you have no idea how relaxed I am feeling in my heart knowing that you will be helping Dad...but now i need you to talk to me about what you are feeling...I do not want you too also feel burdened...."

Khushi continues to hug him hard as she admits honestly- " no love...its not that I am feeling burdened or something...we are a family and I know how important this too you...and I always tell you that I'd do anything...just about anything for you...I told you I'll support you always Arnav in every way o can and I know that me being with Mom, Dad and Anjali at work will also help you feel relaxed about it...I know all of that.. and..I'm just overwhelmed becuase this is hugeee to like kind off digest and process ya....I mean I have so mu h to learn from dad..what if I let him down...what if I'm not able to cope up..."

Arnav pulls back and he cups her face lovingly – " Sunshine...we are all right here for you..ok? And who taught me a long time ago...that one shouldn't belittle and doubt one's self for that isnt faith to their head or talent...learning to evolve and adapt professionally will become a hindrance if you belittle it with doubt...you taught me this very mantra long ago Sunshine...and to be honest we all know that of others anyone who is brillaint at adapting and most definetly so multitasking...its you Love...look at you...all that youv always been doing in the past...professionally..youv handled things so so well...always...and I have full faith in the fact that you will be wonderful in taking this on too...cmon Love...You are MY Sunshine...my Light...remember we focus on the positive always..please dont doubt yourself...I'd hate tthat..I beleive in you...we all beleive in you..."

Khushi now immediately hugs Arnav as she states honestly- " oh gosh ya Hoodie guy...I know..I know...I think I just need to let all of this sink in my software as I sleep tonight..mjust came as a surprise ya...I'll get around to it in my head ya...we have time until after we return from the holidays after the wedding...", and she now pulls back and she states dramatically – " all you members of the Raizada kingdom are surely planning to drive me nuts ya..I mean...hearing Dad and everyone say all that to me with so much conviction and love and faith.. it just stumped me over ya Hoodie guy...I promise I'd do my best to never let any of you down ya.."

Arnav chuckles as he kisses her forhead – " oh my precious adorable Sunshine...I know you were speechless...I understand...and I'm sure it will all sink through by the time it's time to get around to it.."

Khushi smiles and she kisses Arnavs hand and she admits – " love honestly the smile on your face just now means the world to me..to see you this happy and the fact that I am able to help you in anyway so that you can return to cricket devoid of any worry...I'm just happy with that ya...you go on and play hoodie guy...and dont be worries...tell them tomorrow that you will continue...the world of cricket is yet to witness the best of my Hoodie guys bat and arm...", she finishes lovingly and hugs Arnav and he hugs her heart too emotionally overwhelmed and she kisses on his heart now and asks softly – " and what about Captaincy love?? Judt like you beleive in me...I beleive in you too....I agree with everyone on this...you got this Love...you got this...Hoodie guy...and i guess you probably just need more time in your head to come around to this emotionally for I know stepping into Caps shoes is overwhelming for you ofcourse...", and Arnav hugs Khushi as he kisses her head – " yes love..its overwhelming ofcourse but I am going to be honest to them tomorrow ...I will talk to them.openly about everything starting with how i always thought I'd never go on after 30 but now that my worries were eased because I have been blessed by the best family and my wife to be ...I have nothing to worry about and that I was now going to continue playing and more so give it my all but I'm going to be honest and ask them to give me some time to think about Captaincy again and in the meanwhile Cap is anyway continuing to hold on until mid feb anyway..I think that's enough time I would need in my head to think this through again with a fresh perspective.."

Khushi pulls back now and kisses Arnavs head – " I'm so so happy for you love..andd I'm sure you will figure this our in your head soon enough too..and you have my unconditional love and support as always..."

Arnavs now stumped with a zillion emotions as he cups Khushis face lovingly and states looking into her eyes – " you are my world dammit...my whole godaamit universe..my entire galaxy...",and before Khushi could say anything to that Arnav kissed her hard and deep and Khushi now knew by the way his hands were caressing her and touching her that he was not going to let her get another word out of her mouth.

Arnav continued to kiss Khushi madly and Insanely as he picked her up and she wrapped her legs around his waist and her hands around his neck as she continued to kiss him as Insanely too, and he carried them to her room and placed Khushi gently on the bed as he broke apart for a bit and winked at her mischievously as he stated...now starting to strip her off ..off all her clothing one by one – " Sunshine...so you know amongst all this..I forgot to tell HP to keep that pudding up here you know for my sweet twist in our class tonight...but how about you make it sweet for me anyway...I want you to sleep completely bare in my arms tonight...all night...you know even after I finish carnaging you...and you know since I'm so emotional right now..anyway..you know I am going to take my time with you..and then ofcourse all those fines

..I gotta redeem them too...", and Khushi shivers and trembles as she now all bare already Arnavs also flipped out his tee now and is already started to torture her with his hands in the most intimate of ways as always as he caresses every inch of her deeply and intimately and Khushi immediately kisses him deeply too as her lips give him the confirmation that she wouldnt mind being CARNAGED and Fined until the Wee hours of the Morning Anyway!

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

NEXT DAY – 19th December

11.40 AM – CONNAUGHT PLACE – INNER CIRCLE, NEW DELHI

KHUSHI'S POV

Guyss!

I cant stop grinning to myself as I read My text chat with Hoodie Guy from about 30 minutes ago– the quick one we had before he got into the meeting at the BCCI headoffice with Cap, and the rest officials - here in Cannought place.

Him : stepping into the meeting now Sunshine.My phone will be off for a bit. You have fun with Sachi Maan and little zoya, and me and Cap will catch up with you both around lunch time – since we are five minutes away from the Inner circle at CP anyway.And know this Sunshine, I know I said this to you this morning and I will say it again – if it wasn't for you – I wouldn't be stepping into this meeting with such a free mind – completely devoid of any worry at all. You are my angel, my knight in the shining armour, my very own destined miraculous solution to everything, and I love you more than anything in the world. thank you for this again...love.. Thank you.

My reply : ohh thank you an all...looks like i shall fine you tonight then my love.Cmon ya hoodie guy...and you know I am ok too..its all sinking in as I woke up this morning – and since you are the magician – I think you know very well how to hold me , embrace me to ease any of my overwhelmed emotions too, so it really did help that you held me so tight and cozy in your arms as I slept all night – and like I always say there isn't anything in the world I wouldn't do for you love.now go in have a good meeting and I shall see you soon.We are just reaching the inner circle area where we plan to do some shopping for little Zoya and then we will just chill in a café or something.

Him : heading in now everyones here.ok Sunshine.see you soon.i love you.

Me : I love you hoodie guy..more than you will ever know..now don't text back.go go go for your meeting!

And guys now its like I am like so so so anxious and nervous ya..as in like in a good way...because I am so excited to know about My Hoodie Guys meeting with the BCCI officials – like I just hope all Is going well in there.

Well – all is well anyway – surely theres nothing to worry about ya!

So.

Guyssss.

Delhi is amazing – so different – but amazing too like as much as I have seen off it with everyone in all these days – its like a really new experience – hence this morning when Sachi Maam texted me if I would llike to join in with her on a little baby shopping and girl time catching up -since Cap and Arnav were headed to CP anyway because the BCCI headoffice is here – and then suggested that the four of us could catch up for Lunch after as their meeting was over – I was like all excited and joint in obviously – because I hadn't ever seen Connaught Place too right.

So.

Like we all came together here, to Connaught Place this morning,– we as in Me, Sachi maam, Little zoya , Cap and Arnav , and we dropped them off at the BCCI headoffice and made our way here with Verma Uncle then.

And Me and Sachi Maam has spent the last 30 minutes shopping for lil zoya and now we had settled into Starbucks here and I was awaiting to collect our coffees for us – and Sachi maam has just taken Zoya to the washroom too.

And right then my chain of thought is broken as I see the server call out my name stating that the order was ready and I quickly keep my phone back in my crossbody sling bag and close it up and I smile at her and I take it and just as I turn around – I bump into two people and my entire tray topples and I feel the splashes of the hot coffee drinks come over my fullsleeved top and my jeans too and I say on reflex , jumping back as the tray falls off my hand – " ouch...gosh....sorry...",and I shake my hand in pain and I look at the two young girls whom id bumped into and I ask them concerned – " guys im sorry...are you hurt???",and I was obviously expecting them to respond politely, but to my shock and surprise I see one of them roll her eyes at me and the other scowls – " we would have been sorry if it was anyone else...but its you...the bloody witch...whose had her clutches into ASR so deep...its good that you hurt yourself...you probably deserve worse...",and before I can even say anything to that – one of them purposefully spills one of the coffee cup over my hand now and even though its not boiling hot liquid – the coffee – its still significantly hot to scald my hand and I look at the two on reflex as I say totally stunned and shocked by the behaviour and the malicious act – " im sorry...did you just try to burn my hand on purpose???"

And I am now surprised and shocked even more as the rest of the crowd around me starts nearing in around us and they are all hushing and whispering to themselves and literally most of them are glaring at me and I feel like so shocked and lost as I look at the two girls who tried to hurt me on puporse bewlidred still and I turn to the server behind me as I say – " hey...can I please get some ice..."

And the server nods immeieditely and is about to help me with the ice when one of the mean girls snatches the ice away and I look at everyone shocked and I now try to make my way aside , but the two mean girls block my way and one of them says accusingly – " its because of you, ASR is leaving cricket isn't he???????? Its because of you that he is retiring...you don't deserve any help in here , go back to your country...you don't belong here..– you are a witch..god only kknows what magic have you done on him...im sure you convinced him to quit because now you both are probably getting married and you want him to focus on you....you selfish witch...we totally don't buy his statement – I had always thought off playing cricket until the age 0f 30...and you all know I am going to be 30 soon...so its only fair I have this conversation with you the BCCi now..."

WHATTTTTTTTTT????????

WHAT DID SHE JUST SAY????????????????

HOW DOES SHE KNOW THIS????

WHY IS EVERYONE AROUND LOOKING AT ME THIS WAY???

And I look at her now shocked and frazzled – " excuse me...who said anything about him retiring...???"

And the other girl now rolls her eyes as she says to the server - "turn up the volume on the TV Screen..please...",and she scowls at me as she says – " look its all over the news...that's what the meeting is about right – the one that is on in BCCI head office right now..and don't you dare lie to our faces...one of the reporters who was in the reception area of the building heard the office boys talk amongst themselves worriedly that they heard this very statement from ASR's mouth as they went to serve tea to all...and before that whilst they served water they heard Cap talking about his plans....."

WAITTT.

WHATTTTT???????????????????????

I QUICKLY TURN MY ATTENTION TO THE TV NOW – AND MY INSIDES FREEZE AS I HEAR THE BREAKING NEWS BEING FLASHED UP AND COVERED UP ON TV.

AND LINES THAT READ -

A DARK DAY FOR INDIAN CRICKET – NEWS HAS IT THAT CAPTAIN DEV AND VICE CAPTAIN ASR ARE STEPPING DOWN FROM INTERNATIONAL CRIKCET AT THE SAME TIME – THE MEETING IS IN PROGRESS AT THE BCCI HEAD OFFICE IN CP.

And I hear in shock as the reporters are now talking about everything that this girl said to me and further speculations of them stating that they were expecting Cap stepping down and retiremement because of age factors – but its ASR's retirement plan that's shocked the hell out of the country for they all had his eyes on him as the next Captain – and they were now further speculating that maybe this decision is coming from him because he now wants to settle down in marriage and prefer living a normal life – and further speculations being added that sure that there is a lot of anger in everyones heart right now for him – for all India has given him is love in terms of cricket and now he wants to give up not just cricket but turn a bling eye to all of publics emotions and feelings and focus on his personal life – and they even were now flashing headlines stating – ASR ditching his first Love Cricket – for the Love of his WIFI.

OHH GODAMMIT ME.

WHATSSS WRONG WITH THEM.

WHATS HAPPENED TO RESPONSIBLE JOURNALISM AND REPORTING?

HOW CAN THEY JUST REPORT THINGS LIKE THIS BEFORE EVEN CONFIRMING THEM.

And I turn around to look at the angry faces in front of me and some are even now recording the scene around me, but I don't care about that as I instantly remember that Sachi maan and Zoya are in the bathroom too and I now need to rush to them and I say immediately trying to make my way through – " guys...relax...this is not true...Arnav is not retiring...please let me go..."

And my hand is starting to pain now too and everyones' still ganged up around me, with those two girls bLocking my way and I look at them helplessly as I say – " guys...this is not true....let me go...please..."

And right then I hear a loud voice , of a young woman– " she said...let her go...is this the way to treat anyone for that matter?????get lost everyone...",and I look up to see the young woman now fight her way through the ganged up crowd around me and she says instantly to the server – " ice...",and the server hands another glass of ice to her and t to her and she instantly puts the ice glass over my hand and she smiles at me holding my other hand – " Khushi...I hope I would have met you under different circumstances...but im glad I was around here and stepped in here by chabce for a quick coffee break..and look at what I see..pathetic...these people ya..but we need to get out of here now...what face will I show to ASR if I dont get you out of here now..",and she yells again at every fiestly– " get lost everyone..or you want me to call the cops and all of you arrested on account of harrasement..."

And everyone gives me angry glares and looks but does start to disperse and I give her a small smile as I ask – " you know Arnav??"

She smiles softly as she holds my arm – " you ok??yes I know Arnav...I am Manizeh...I work very closely with the Men in Blue...I am the teams chief physios assistant..i didn't travel with them in the world cup to cape town since my ammi wasnt well or I would have met you earlier..anyway now is not the time for all that...cmon then...I need to get you out of here..."

And I say immediately – " Sachi maam, Zoya...they are in the washroom...I cant leave them alone...we neeed to get them..."

And right then I see Sachi maam and Zoya come near us and the minute Sachi maam sees me she goes pale as she asks concerned coming to my side– " Khushi...whats wrong?? What just happened??manizeh...you?? whats wrong?? "

And I stand shaken as Manizeh now fills her in and right then we hear another news flash in the background – " the anger in the public is rising...and we bring you fresh pictures from outside the BCCI's Headoffice that's now being mobbed on the outside as angry fans have now started to burn down ASR's and Captain Dev's posters for they are furious with the Captain and Vice Captain for behaving so irresponsibly towards the game that has made them who they are..."

MY HEART CLINCHES IN FEAR.

HOLY SHIT.

IT ISNT THEM WHO IS BEHAVING IRRESPONSIBLY...ITS THE SITUATION...WHERE PEOPLE DONT REALISE THAT THE MEDIA IS A DOUBLE EDGED SWORD – AND AN INCOMPLETE INFORMATION or PICTURE CAN BE THIS DEVASTATING!

I look at Sachi maan immediately as I say – " sachi...you need to get home now...with zoya...verma uncle will take you...",and I turn to Manizeh – " manizeh take me to bcci office please...to Arnav please...I cannot leave him alone in there..."

Sachi immediately states – " no Khushi you are coming with me...no way...am I letting you go around there...don't worry they are safe within the BCCI...you can see...the security is lining up outside BCCI...",and I look at the TV to see the images – but my heart rages on me – I cannot leave My Hoodie Guy alone in there.

In sickness and in Health – in every High and Low – I promised him that I would be there by his side.

And this Was Angry Mob – gathering around Him and BCCI...I could not leave him Alone!

I look at Sachi as I say looking around at the ppeople starting to gang around us again as they are literally hurling abusesat us but I dont care or pay heed to all of that and we all make our way out rushing – " sachi please...ok...you have Zoya with you...please go home before this gets worse...please...",and I now take her by the hand and rush to our car parked outside and I see verma uncle rush up to me as he says concerned – " Khushi beta...everyone at home they are trying to reach your number... Arun sir has asked me to take you home right now...there is a massive incident..."

And I say immediately – " verma uuncle I know...you will take sachi maam and zoya with you...right now home..tell everyone I am fine and that I am going to BCCI to be with Arnav right now – I will not leave him alone...I will not...please go go now...hurry...", I say in panic as I see the crowd around us give me – oh-its-her look, and I hug Sachi maan and Zoya and I say – " go please...sachi...for Zoyas sake..."

And I beg Verma uncle to listen to me and he agrees reluctantly and just as the car leaves, Manizeh holds my hand as she says, looking into the phone – " auto...we will take an auto to the back entrerance...the mobs and the protests have reached the front enterance...ill take you through the back..but Khushi are you sure?????"

I nod frantically – " yes pleaseeee Manizeh...please...just please take me to Arnav...I cannot leave him alone in there...oh goshh..please my heart will burst in panic.. just take me to him now..."

And Manizeh looks at me concerned as she sighs – " cmon then...fast...."

And she takes my hand and I follow her and she instantly hails us an auto and we get in and she instructs the auto driver to take us to the spot she wanted.

And I quickly take out my phone as I want to call Arnav now – and I realise that it isn't the signal that's the problem – my battery is freaking dead – godammit I totally forgot to charge my phone last night and my power bank was in the car.

I look at Manizeh helplessly and shes checking up on the route on the GPS too so I cant make the call from her phone too...I quickly keep my phone in and I pray to god....god please..let my Hoodie guy be in the office premises and be safe – Please let him not step out...please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I AM COMING TO YOU HOODIE GUY.

I AM NOT GOING TO LEAVE YOU ALONE.

I PROMISED YOU – IN EVERY HIGH AND EVERY LOW I SHALL BE WITH YOU – ALWAYS!

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

MEANWHILE SIMULTANEOUSLY – 1145 AM – BCCI BOARDROOMS

The officials and Coach now all shake hand with Cap one by one as they say – " Dev...we hate to let you go...but we understand...its time...and we can never thank you for what yiuv done for Indian cricket..nor can the public nor India India that matter...and furthermore.. thank for holding the fort until ASR is ready to step in...and then also for continuing to be a part of the team until a couple of more months...ASR would need your guidance and support.."

And everyone now shakes hands with Arnav and Coach says first – " and you my boy literally gave us all an heart attack with your - I had always thought off playing cricket until the age 0f 30...and you all know I am going to be 30 soon... so I was going to step down...but...and we are glad that we heard that But and the decision youv made after...so so so glad...to know that youv changed your mind..."

Arnav chuckles as he shakes his hand with the President and vice president and the chief selectors and assuers them that he will be able to get his head around the matter of Captaincy by mid Feb.

And right then they all look up as finally the BCCI's presidents assistant now barges in through the door and the President looks at him as he says – " Gaurav...why are you barging in...I thought I made it perfectly clear...that this meeting was confidential...and I wanted no disturbance...why do you think we all even switched off our phones...well its now over but still..."

Gaurav now groans as he looks at all helpless and he states worriedly, taking the remote of the TV from the table – " Sir, every one, ASR, Cap, theres nothing about this meeting that is confidential anymore...I have given a piece of my mind to Ramu and Raju as to how could they be so careless about this...but I think they heard an incomplete bit off this meeting in bits and were discussing on it – and some reporters heard them – you know wev had a couple of them swamped around the reception ever since Cap and ASR stepped in..."

And Arnav and Cap ask in unison, worried and concerned – " what do you mean??"

And Gaurav instantly turns on the TV as he states – " its blown up to another level right now...we are being mobbed outside.. there are protests, the public thinks that you both are giving up cricket at the same time...they are literally starting to burn down the two of yours posters..and at this rate I'm expecting some stone pelting soon too..."

And Arnav and Cap – watch in worry and horror as they take in the false events that were now being potrayed so differently on TV and then the images of the angry crowd from the outside and Arnav listens in sheer shock as to how events are being portrayed with regards to him especially and how the media was blaming his decision to settle down in personal life for this decision and totally bashing on his love life and Khushi...and he looks at Cap worriedly and both their heart clutches in fear as they realise that their better halves are near and around and outside as they say in unison – " sachi and zoya.."

"Khushi..."

And the officials now start to ring in for extra security and the assiatnt Gaurav says – " iv called the extra security around before coming in to youa all.. also I have called the cops..iv asked them to secure the building...we all stay in..here...that's the only way we are safe..."

Coach looks at Arnav and Dev and he asks – " khushi..sachi...zoya?? Are they out right now?? What the hell?", and he turns to Gaurav – " get as much security ass we can and get me this bloody news channel on the line...I'm going to bash them up left right and center for reporting things falsely..and creating this hue and cry...arnav...dev...I'm on this...a statement from me that this is false for now should calm things down...please tell me as soon as you hear about Khushi,sachi and Zoya...", and with that Coach sir walks with Gaurav worriedly.

And right then Arnav and Dev, both reach out for their phones and switch it on in sheer panic and Arnav tries to call Khushi helplessly but her phone comes off and he looks at Cap as he asks helplessy, fear clutching his heart – " Cap please tell me you reached Sachi maam...they are together..

Cap nods as he says – " the bells ringing...ill put it on speaker...",and right then he hears his wife pick up and she says in a crying tone – " dev thank god...I was trying to reach u..your phone was off..", and he says instantly – " sachi..thank god...where are you , zoya and Khushi?? Get out of there and get home...go to ARnavs home I do not want the two of you to be home alone right now...we are ok..we just saw the news...but don't worry we are safe in here..you all get home..."

And Arnav says immediately in panic – " Khushi...can u hear me...dammit...talk please...why is your phone off dammit..."

And they both hear Sachi's crying voice now – " Khushi...is not with me Arnav...she would not listen..she forced me and Zoya to leave with verma uncle..she said...shes coming to you..she said she would not leave you alone..Manizeh is with her...she saved her...people had ganged up on Khushi in Starbucks as the news was out on the TV.....i didn't want to leave her...but it was getting heated on the outside too and Khushi asked me to leave for Zoyas sake and the mother in me took over as I succumbed to her requests...oh god...Arnav...I feel terrible...shes with Manizeh...she's coming to you...and shes hurt too...please keep the first aid handy"

And Arnavs heart clutches in fear as he asks shaken – " what do you mean ?? hurt??? What happened in there..Sachi maam please tell me.."

And Sachi continues to cry brokenly as she reveals to Arnav and Dev – everything that had happened with Khushi in there.

And just as he hears what was being told – Arnav felt his heart clutch in fear like never before.

GODAMMIT SUNSHINE.

And right then his phone buzzes and he sees it's his Mom and he picks up and he hears His parents and Ravi and Anjalis worried voice come through the phone on the coneference call as they tell him that Verma uncle called and told them Khushi was on her way to him and Arnav says immediately – " I know...guys...I know..just relax...she is not alone shes with Manizeh...khushis phone is off I'm going to hang up now and talk to Manizeh...and speak to Khushi...relax ok..I will get to her no matter what..and you all stay at home...and sachi maan and Zoya are coming to you...dad call in security...and all of you stay in...until I call...Ravi...please reach home now too...be there...with everyone and now ill hang up..need to get to Khushi....", and he hangs up immediately and he now calls Manizeh.

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

Khushi feels her heart clinch in worry and fear as she spots the angry mob outside the frontal building of BCCI, her heart going to her Hoodie guy and right then she hears Manizeh instruct to the auto driver in an angry tone – " I told you please pull us to the back now...now...that way..."

The auto driver – " Ok ok...wait..a minute..."

And right then Manizehs phone rings and she says instantly – " Khushi Its Arnav...he surely must know that you are with me..take it..talk to him...", and Manizeh returns to guiding the auto driver to the back entrance.

And Khushi now picks up the phone immediately as she says in a broken panicked tone – " Arnav...aree you ok??? Hoodie guy..."

And she hears Arnav's rushed and panicked and concerned voice come through – " khushi dammit...are you crazy..I am in indoors in the BCCI..i am safe..you are the one who is outside.. you should have gone home Khushi...dammit...do you even know how scared to death I am right now for you...where are your dammit...answer me godammit now...go back...dont come...here...its insane outside..."

Khushi feels tears leave her eyes In panic as she states crying on the phone – " I couldn't leave you alone Arnav.. I promised you..I would never leave you alone...in any high or any low...I had to see you..or my heart was going to die in panic knowing you are in there with all this angry mob ooutside....i felt like everything inside of me was being stormed in so much panic and pain love..i had to come to you....and we are at the back entrance now...in a minute.. manizeh says we will be there..."

Arnavs panicked and concerned voice – " shhhh shhhh shhh ok dont cry dont cry..I'm coming to the reception to get you..run in to me the minute I signal you ..wait in the auto until then...."

Khushi says immediately as her eyes fall on the angry mob now rushing towards the back entrance too- "nooo noooo dont come out..they are..", but the line goes cut and she knows that Arnav had hung up before listening to it.

And right then as they near the back entrance Khushis eyes take in the angry crowd and her heart grips on fear as she says to Manizeh crying furiously – " manizeh I need to get in there before Arnav steps out to get me...hes coming...he will come out to get me surely ..and look they are so angry some have begun stone pelting too..he will be hurt...he cannot be hurt..godammit this is all my fault..I panicked and I came here..and now becuase of me he will come out ...no..no...I have to go to him..."

Manizeh looks around as she catches Khushis hand – " no way Khushi...we are safe in the auto right now....no body has spotted us...I cannot let you step out right now...you will be hurt surely.."

And Khushi now states looking at the side steps of the back entrance – " manizeh...I'll run through there...its a safe bet..see the security is now stopping the mobbed crowd too...let me go..or Arnav will come out...", and before Manizeh could say anything to her, she freed her hand from her grip and ran out of the auto.

.....

Arnav ran as fast as he could to the reception at the ground floor WITH Cap and Coach running alongside him off too as he states in sheer panic now rushing to the back entrance – " cap..coach.. I need to get to her now....I need security cover..."

And right then the security team comes in there way as the head states blocking Arnavs and Caps way – " we have strict orders from the BCCI president..the two of you cannot step out for you will be hurt...the back entrance has been mobbed too and the pelting has just begun...you both have to stay in..."

Arnav pushes him back in fury – " shut the f****** hell up..my wife is out there...and I am going to her...you either cover me up or f****** go to hell...", and despite the fact that the guards try to stop him Arnav now rushes towards the back entrance and he feels relief wash over as he spots Khushi rushing through the side steps and she spots him too and he sees relief wash over her eyes too as their eyes lock in an intense momentary eyelock and just then she starts running up the last four steps to him and he is running to the door , Arnav's relief gets displaced in horror as he watches a stone, crash through the glass door first and the other one Hits on Khushis head from behind and her hand goes upto the back of her head on impact and he watches her trip in her steps and she rolls down the steps she was running her way up and he yells instantly in a heart wrenching scream ,running out to her at the speed of light - " khushhhiiiiii...."

Khushi had felt relief wash over her being as she had spotted Arnav in the doors and she was sure she was just a minute away from him and she increased her pace right when she felt that hit on her head from behind and her eyes were on Arnav then and she did see horror flash through his eyes now before she tripped in her steps and felt herself roll down the stairs and she heard his panic stricken yell of her name – "Khushiiiii...."

Khushi feels her head being hit again as she lands on the landing and right then she hears Manizehs voice as she feels Cops surround around her for cover and safety – " cover her up now...we need to get her to the hospital...the mobs silenced ..but they could rage again cant trust it..", and Khushi states brokenly – " I am ok...hoodie guy...my Hoodie guy..."" ,whispered khushi brokenly as her eyes took in the Sight of Arnav a second away from her and she says softly , her head heaving up- " there y...ou ar..e Ho..odie guy..I.. m...s..o..r..r..y..."

Arnav had rusheds down the stairs as fast as he could after the gut wrenching scream from him and the sight of Khushi falling down had silenced the angry mob but the security team had rushed around him too at the speed of light and was covering up around him in front of him anyway and he felt his heart grip in horror and panic as he reached Khushi at the landing and he heard her say brokenly as she lay pale with her forhead bleeding – "the..r..e..you.. are...hood..lie.. guy...I.. m..sorry..." , and he instantly cradled her in his arms as he cupped her face and patted her cheeks in sheer panic as he spotted her eyes closing and she was on the brink of losing unconsciousness – " Khushi..listen to me dammit..listen to me....sunshine..stay with me..please...look at me..I'm here..khushi...dammit...dont you dare close your eyes on me right now....."

Khushi tries to keep her eyes open as her eyes take in the sight of a horrified Arnav and she states her hand reaching fo cup his face – " I a..m...o..k..ju..st...my...head...hurts...dont...worry...i..will.try to keep my eyes open...ho...odie guy..."

And Manizeh looks at Arnav worried as she states- " Arnav we need to get her to the hospital now....I fear a concussion...we cannot let it get worse...I need ice for the way...", and right then Cap comes to Arnav's side too immediately as he shoves two clothes punched up into a pouch with ice on Khushis head..one on the forhead wound that was bleeding and one at the back of her head where shed been hit with a stone and he looks back at the mob now that had gone into a stunned silence as Khushi had fallen and Arnav had yelled her name in that heart wrenching scream and for the first time ever CAPTAIN Dev roars in anger – " unfreaking bloody believable ...even if we FREAKING die for you all it will not be enough..pathetic..why cant you all wait for official statements before stirring up all this drama... make way now....", he roars and then Arnav picks up Khushi in his arms as Dev says – " arnav coach is getting his car up from out of the parking now...let's rush her...there he comes..forget everything else...manizeh come in with us..you are a.doc...nonetheless tell us how we can help Khushi..."

Manizeh – " just hold the ice tight on her wounds should be ok...she could talk and her eyes are still open...Max is five,seven minutes away..we just need her to stay consciousness.."

And Arnav nods shaken as whisks Khushi in his arms and makes his way to Coachs car and he gives a broken and a pathetically disappointed look at the mob too and then gets in the backseat with Cap and Manizeh takes the front seat next to Coach and she states getting in – ".coach sir..drive as fast as you can..I'm calling my friend at the emergency in Max to prep up..so that we can tend to Khushi asap..", sans she turns back to Arnav and Cap – " hold the ice tight..and Arnav keep talking to her..."

Khushi tries to keep her eyes open as much as she could only because of the horrified pale look on Arnavs face as he kissed her forhead and hands over and over again as he spoke – " khushi..stay with me..keep looking at mme..I'm here...with you..you will be ok...I love you so so so much godammit.they hurt you in the café too because of me...someone dropped coffee on you...this hand right..",he touches Khushis a little red scalded hand and kisses on it again and again ,and Khushi whispers softly – " it wa..s..n..o..t..very...hot...just...wa..r..m..i...am...ok...",and Arnav cradles her close lovingly and possessively as he whispers continuing kissing her hand and her forehead too a s Cap kept the ice pressed on her wounds– " I love you dammit...im sorry..so so so sorry ..I swear to god you close your eyes on me right now godammit..you wait..just you wait.. what was this stunt dammit...you should have gone home Khushi.. you should have gone home...why did you come for me...I love you...I love you so so so muchhhh..", he whispers brokenly tears leaving his eyes now as he kissed Khushis forhead again and again and then looked at Coach Sir – " drive fast sir...please...shes finding it difficult to keep her eyes open..."

Coach sir says in panic too– " three freaking minutes..just three minutes.."

Khushi now manages to kiss Arnavs hand as she states weakly, feeling her head spin – " don..t..wo..r..r..y...Arn..a..v....probably just a concussion in my head...they will take me for the..M..r...I...I....m..telling...you...they..will...all..find...out..that..I.. am...now..officially.. crazy... in...my head.....I'm.. sorry...I.. I.. couldn't..leave you alone...I had to ...com..e...to...you...in sick..ness and in health...in every...high..and low..I.. promised..and look..you came for me too you ran out to me..you could be hurt too....but you didnt care....I love you Hoodie guy..do..n..t...wo..r..r..y.", and without that she feels her head finally spin and it all goes blank.

Arnav watches in sheer horror as Khushi loses unconsciousness in his arms and Cap immedaitely now startes to sprinkle a lot of water on Khushis face from the bottle and Arnav joins him too as he says patting Khushis cheek again and again – "sunshine..dammit...open your eyes now...we are reaching the hospital in two minutes...khushi...khushi...godammit please....open your eyes..",but she does not open her eyes and Arnav feels his heart literally stop beating at the sight of pale Khushi in his arms , now unconscious.

Manizeh looks back at a pale Arnav as she states – " dont worry...just a minute and we will be there.. it will just be a mild concussion..surely..but they will do the checks ..keep her in for a day or two of rest and then she will be fine...arnav she will be fine..."

Cap – " she will be ok dont worry...she was talking to you until a minute ago..she could get a broken sentence out..which is a good sign.."

Manizeh – " definetly a very good sign.. that's why I am so sure that she will be good to be taken back home in a day or two..."

And Arnav nods at her shaken and frazzled still nonetheless because the sight of Khushi unconscious this way in his arms was enough to Storm the Hell out of His Head, Heart and Soul.

Never before had he felt a pain and fear this strong – that he felt himself being swept down the whirlpools of distress and pain – all at once!

He knew Manizeh and Cap were right – Khushi was going to be ok – but the fact that he had gone through the emotions that he had in the last couple of minutes at watching His Sunshine get hurt in that way and then her fighting to hold onto her senses all for him, because he was sure she could sense the horror, the dread and the fear in his vibe to her and his eyes and face too and then the fact that she had finally lost consciousness in his very arms – had shaken him completely to the very core of his being and that's why he felt as if his breathe had been Hitched and his Heart was being gripped in Immense Pain.

He couldn't Breathe.

His Heart was Surely Skipping Beats..and he was now starting to feel his Insides go Numb with Overwhelming Emotion.

For Never in the almost 30 Years of his Life – had Arnav Singh Raizada Felt – A Storm As Sudden, and Strong and Pained As This One – Go Through the Cape of His Heart!

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

TADAAAAAAAAA!!!!

GUYSSSSSSSSSSS....LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU ALL THINK OF THAT!!

OK OK..NO SHOES ON ME FOR STOPPING THERE..HEHE...BUT GUYS FOR REAL...DON'T WORRY..KHUSHI WILL BE FINE..AND I THINK I NEED TO SAY THIS RIGHT NOW – OR I SHALL BE KILLED IN COMMENTS – HAHA...LIKE MANIZEH GAVE A HEADS UP – A MILD CONCUSSION – NOTHING MAJOR – BUT ENOUGH TO SET THE PLOT FOR MY NEXT CHAPTER.

AND GUYSS – JUST INCASE YOU GUYS HAVENT ALREADY GUESSED – I AM NOW HEREBY INTRODUCING – MANIZEH KHAN AS ASHER KHAN'S FUTURE LOVE INTEREST!

HAHA...SEE YOU ALL ASKED ME FOR IT – HERE YOU GO!

PLEASE IMAGINE – MAHIRA KHAN – AS MANIZEH KHAN

(SHE IS A GORGEOUS PAKISTANI ACTRESS – WHO LOOKS KILLER WITH FAWAD KHAN WHO IS OUR DEAREST ASHER IN THE FF AND SHE ALSO DEBUTED WITH SHAH RUKH KHAN IN RAEES – PLEASE ASK GOOGLE FOR PICTURE REFERENCES)

Let me know what you all think as always!

Much love guys

Stay in and Stay Safe.

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