ARSHI FF : HIT WICKET MY HEART 2.0 - EPILOGUE1.0.Pg 44(8/7/2021)*Compl - Page 10

Lovely update yaar....nice Nick name yaar.. hilarious... can't wait for the meeting....

Khushi dreaming about her guy during the exam. Hope she completed the exam properly.

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee

So here I am today ,as promised with a Medium Length Update off about 6k words as Chapter 23.2....

Will be Eager to know what you all think, as alwayssss.👍👩‍💻👩‍💻❤

Thank you so much for your amazing feedback uptil now Guys.❤❤

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

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Some Pictures of Characters Appearing/Mentioned in the Update.

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CHAPTER 23.2 – DIRE TIMES = FASTRACKED MEASURES

THE NEXT DAY – 16TH MAY, 2019(BANGALORE)

TIME: 10:00 AM

ARNAV'S POV

Guys.

Indulging in a comfortable, slow back- float in the pool, always does work wonders on my tired muscles, which is why I am exactly relying on the exact activity, to not only work its wonder on some of my tired and exhausted muscles, because of the physically gruelling Semi's game last night, but am also relying on the calm water to shift some of its wonderous affect on the little sore muscles, within the walls of my Heart, that have been getting a tad bit Sore as they have come face to face with the Dawn of some Dire Times – because of the familiar yet very uncomfortable green monster of – Envy.

I know – I need to quickly give in the Context, I am referring to – so let's get to that bit, first without much a further ado, before I get consumed in the moment around me. Because well, Cap is also enjoying his relaxing back float next to me on my right side, and Ravi is indulging in the very same on my other left side, and right next to him is Singh(who is also one of our leg spinners+ hitter in the national unit, and plays along with Cap, in the Chennai team too, so basically as of now, it's just us Four Men, relaxing each of ourselves in the indoor pool, of our Hotel.)

So coming to the Context – that is responsible for the Sore Muscles within the walls of my Heart. It's obviously got everything to do with the fact that Mr. Polo + Shivani and their mother – are technically at Khushi's home right now, and are amidst their Breakfast, get together. And well obviously it isn't just that guys, I mean I am not going to get sore with Envy, just because My Sparkle is surrounded by Mr.Polo for just one meal.( that would be like SuperSilly off me, as of now I am just rolling in between the arrows of Silly and Very Silly on that Silly Meter). I mean all this Envy business is literally making me feel like a Silly teenager, and not like a grownup who is going to be 28 in 5 days, since it's my b'day on the 22nd May. Anyways so, all of my very silly discomfort is also because, Shivani+ Hridhaan and their mother are going to be staying over at Khushi's for Two full Days, until the 18th morning, which is when Khushi + Jess leave for Mumbai, to come see the finals and Hridhaan and Shivani's Mom, heads back to Jaipur then, and guess what - as if all of these developments were not enough to cause me discomfort, the cherry on this huge cake of discomfort was the fact that, Hridhaan and Shivani + one more his friends who is also a Polo player and plays for the Gurgaon Polo & Equestrian Club were also going to be accompanying Jess and Khushi to Mumbai to see the IPL Final together. (This was what Shivani's call to Khushi was about yesterday evening – as in she obviously filled in Khushi, that while she was in the exam, the development on this plan had taken place, as Hridhaan, had some work and meetings with the officials at the Gurgaon Polo Club scheduled for 16 and 17th , and since Shivani had been eager to catch up with Khushi and Jess, too, she was obviously going to be coming along too, and then it was Khushi's mom who had suggested Ranjana aunty(their mom ) to also come along – so that the two of them could catch up after ages too, and they all were scheduled to arrive at Khushi's this morning at 9 am.Also, Khushi's mom obviously convinced Ranjana aunty that all of them would be staying at Khushi's place, for the entire duration of their stay in Delhi, and since Shivani& Hridhaan had already planned to go for the finals as well, it kind of just made sense that they all take the same flight out to Mumbai and travel together and also stay at the same Hotel – and atleast the saving grace about this last fact was that – Trident Nariman Point, is exactly where I shall be staying too – since all the teams always stay there during the IPL. Anyways technically the whole point in this entire scenario is that , Mr.Polo is going to be around My Sparkle, quite a bit – in all these days. He's even going to be accompanying her to Mumbai now and watch the Finals along side her.

Why can't I be the one to be alongside My Sparkle – in all these days?

Yeah right – as if Raizada. You obviously Can't – because you are the one who will be playing the Final on the field. ( Oh yes Guys, I totally forgot to mention this bit that the reason for my tired muscles is the fact that the game had been physically gruelling for me yesterday since I batted through the Innings, and went a little beserk with all my shots and everything and aggressive running in between the wickets – because well, I was kind of imagining every tricky ball being swung up my face to have the image of Mr.Polo. It was a tactic I had come up with , within my head to channelise my discomfort and frustration, the minute My Sparkle – had told me all about the details about the plan that had developed in the background on with regards to Shivani and Hridhaan, as we talked out on the Video Call before the match yesterday, but I had been successful at masking my envious discomfort to her on the video call, because obviously I do want to be like all gentlemanly about this as well , because in my heart, I am obviously aware, that My Sparkle, has her eyes only for me – that way. I smile to myself now, as I remember how, Khushi filled me in over all the rest of the details over how she came up with the name My Noise Cancelling Headphones for me yesterday in the exam hall – or how she was literally dancing on her bed in glee, commending the game, my performance and our thrilling win - as I left the afterparty after being there for a little while in celebration, to go up to my room so that I could just talk to her and be with her. We only slept by like 330 am, for we couldn't stop talking, and also ofcourse we got on a video call first thing as we woke up this morning too, and were talking to one another until Khushi had to hang up to start to get ready so that she could be down at breakfast to join everyone by 9am. In fact we had also gotten onto a little chat as Hridhaan+Shivani and their Mom arrived, at around 910 am, and it was right then I made my way to join Cap, Ravi, Singh for a little swim time, before breakfast. (As the distraction was obviously going to Help me – this morning)

I am distracted in my thoughts as I ,hear Singh's voice echoing in my ears – " nopee, Skip...I mean I can't get over it...I mean I slept over it and everything, but no, its going to take me atleast a couple of days to digest my bowling figures, from last nights match, you butchered my four overs bowling economy figures with your shots last night..."

I chuckle as I stand up in the pool now , and watch Ravi, Cap , and Singh do the same next to me and I say with a wink – " sorry brother...let's just say I was in the mood yesterday...."

Ravi winks as he pats Singh's arms – " to be honest Singha, as I was watching from the dug outs, I knew from the look on your face that its going to take you a while to get over those shots..."

Cap grins as he says patting my arm – " it was a treat for me to watch you from behind the stumps Arnav, indeed, it isn't very often we get a score of 225 – 3 in a Semi's, it was going to be a daunting chase for us anyway...honestly I didn't think we would get to 200 as well, because the pitch turned in the second innings...but well we did just get to that number, and lost by a good 25 runs margin..."

I smile at Cap as I say – " yes Cap, the pitch really suited our bowling conditions in the second innings..."

Ravi grins – " well it was all about the momentum too, as in we went into bowling with a high score on the board, and I could read that the pitch was going to favour the swing..."

I wink at Ravi – " which is exactly how you got those 3 crucial wickets in the power play buddy.."

Cap grins – " yeahhh...I am grinning about it now, but in the moment I was actually thinking to myself in dugouts, that Ravi was going to get that hat-trick..."

Ravi chuckles happily – " well but I missed the hat-trick, and you guys know what the picture of Arnav turning to hug you Cap , first the minute he scored that 125 not out and finished the first innings for us, is still like the most viral pic online, from last nights game with the Caption being – And this is why Cricket shall always be the Gentleman's game.Opponents, for a while – but Bleed Blue brother's forever.."

Cap and me, high five as we wink at one another happily as we say in unsion – " well, that's a true caption, out there though..."and Cap hugs me sideways as he says – " Arnav...I am excited to see tonights game, I mean if Mumbai wins, than that means, I am watching that final in Wankhede,with my feet up on the chair, all relaxed, and see you and Rohan deal with the intense gaming emotions, of the moment.."

I hug Cap – " lets see how the Semi's game pans out tonight, I am just glad that we will all be able to watch it together as we are scheduled to leave for Mumbai, tomorrow morning.."

Cap nods – " oh yes I am glad about that...well now that we are outplayed of the league, im just going to take a couple of days off in my head to just rejuvenate my head, before we regroup on 22nd in Delhi for our forst practice session...which is also your bday.."

I grin and wink at him – " and you know I love playing cricket on the day always..be it a official game or practice..so am happy that, its going to be a full day of hardcore practice cap..."

Ravi says now, gesturing towards Singh – " look at this one, he is still shaking his head in disbelief..."

I look at Singh who is still grinning at me in disbelief and I chuckle as I ask – "really??"

Singh grins – " yes...ofcourse Skip...still in disbelief, you've never hammered me that way in the nets too...im trying to rethink what did I do wrong in those deliveries..specially my last over in which you smashed me off for 6 fours in a row.. "

I chuckle as I say, once again– " sorry brother, honestly the balls were really good...the line and the length..and everything was spot on, I just was in a different zone while taking my shots at them.."

Cap nods as he chips in – " I told him the same thing Arnav after the match in the dressing room, your line and length were good Singh, but we all know nothing can stop our Skippers bat when he sets his mood to it.."

I side hug cap as I say – " Cmon Cap...please..."

Cap ruffles my hair – " you know you are like a younger brother to me, trust me when I say this – yesterdays game, and seeing you play the way you did,was a real treat for me..irrespective of the fact that we were technically playing for different sides.."

I hug him back happily – " and I can never thank you enough Cap, for everything...technically I am leading the national side, but its you who is always going to be my Captain...and you know that...right??"

Ravi chuckles – " and this is where I am missing out on my phone, I should have snapped this picture and had it up on Insta with the caption : a Never ending Bromance. This picture would surely beat the one going viral from last night, its such a bummer that I don't have my phone though..."

We all share a warm laugh.

Singh nods and winks at Ravi and says patting Ravi's arm– " Ravi, cmon lets head for breakfast , I think I need some food in my system to help me get over that onslaught off our Skipper's bat...cmon guys...lets go.."

Cap grins as he says to Ravi and Singh – " you guys carry on, I want to chat with Arnav, for a bit, we will join you both soon.."

Ravi and Singh nod, and they leave. Once its just Cap and me, he grins and says – " how about if we just walk down a couple of laps, Arnav.."

I nod and we start to walk along the pools length and Cap asks, smiling – "is she, coming to the finals?? At Mumbai??your secretive someone"

I nod, happily – " yes, she is..Cap.."

Cap grins – " which is great Arnav, I am happy for you, the smile on your face tells me that you really are very happy with her.."

I nod with a grin – " happy would be the understatement of the century Cap.."

Cap punches my arm, teasing me as he says – " looks like someone is a total goner.."

I grin and nod as we continue wading our way through the pool – " a goner indeed..."

Cap says happily – " and you must know that all of us as in Ravi, me , Rohan, just like Akash, and Payal,and Noor are literally dying to know who she is..."

I nod , grinning – " I know Cap, and to be honest there is a part of me that is dying to just tell you all out right, about who she is, infact it were upto me I'd just scream it out to the whole wide world...but I can't..and that's totally for her sake, too.."

Cap narrows his eyes at me as he asks – " you are in love with her, aren't you??"

I ask, sure my eyes had widened – " and how did you even know that??"

Cap winks – " first confirm whether I am right or not.."

I chuckle – " you are right, Cap, I am in love with her – insane.."

Cap grins – " and I guessed it by your – if it were upto me I'd scream it out to the whole wide world, but I can't for her sake..."and he pauses and gives me a heartfelt smile and says – " I understand what you mean though Arnav, I mean there's so much stuff going around us in the background always, that at times it can be overwhelming for the other person, and this was the precise reason why Sachi and me kept, our relationship under the wraps, until it was just a couple of days to our wedding..."

I nod – " yup Cap, and after all that limelight with Pia in the past, a part of me is also like super protective about this, because I do not want any drama to overwhelm her or scare her away at all, although we are pretty close and in my heart it does feel like, there never would be a scope for that, but I still don't want to take any risk there, because my heart is on the line.."

Cap chuckles now and I ask – " whattt??"

He grins and winks – " the happy in love, look in your eyes, is a treat for me, like about time I hear you tell me that there's something else consuming your head, apart from cricket...infact you know what, I'd often think to myself sometimes, that I wouldn't be shocked if you settled down with someone, who kind off lives and breathes cricket as much as you...."

My eyes widen on its own accord as I say , zapped – " okkk how are you even guessing all these things right Cap, I mean you always get the DRS right...but this one is like two on two..."

Cap punches my arm mischeviously – " really??? she lives and breathes cricket too??she loves cricket too???"

I nod sheepishly.

Cap says twisting around his finger mischeviosuly again – " hold on...since I am getting my guesses right...let me take another guess, and try to connect the dots, you said you want to keep this a secret for her sake...so..."and he pauses for a couple of seconds to think and he says next, snapping his finger - " wait, wait, wait...by any chance is she a cricketer too?? As in does she play the game??is she an Indian??

I nod, sheepishly as I admit – " ok, no one knows this yet Cap...not even Akash...so I didn't tell you...you just guessed it..."

Cap winks – " holy hell...can't believe I got that right too, where was this luck when I lost out the toss to you yesterday.."

We both chuckle and share a warm laugh.

Cap asks – " ok I won't ask much since I know you want to give her identity to us all together maybe...and now I know what you mean by why you want to keep it a secret, for her sake..."

I nod as I admit – " yes Cap, she wants to be secretive about this, until as long as we can be , because she does not want anyones attention to her personal life, from her game at this point in time...you know how it is, people will just start to look at the fact that we are together, rather than focus on the fact on how good she is as a player, herself...I would never want to be a cause of any kind off overshadow to her game, and specially not at this point in her career, she's so freaking brilliant, plays the pull shot a million times better than me...and you just have to see her hit her sixes....it stuns me, to the core...she's got a lot of potential and talent.."

Cap grins – " I understand where you are coming from and trust me when I say this, I really respect you for this, and you are doing the right thing, its better that no one knows about this, until she is comfortable about the same, perhaps? Because once it comes to light, you know it will just BOOM..."

I nod.

Cap hugs me sideways happily as he says – " I am so happy for you brother and your secret is safe with me, don't worry..."

I chuckle as I say – " I know, it is Cap..."

He gestures us to get out the pool now - " lets head to the changing room then? And then head for breakfast??"

I nod and we both start to get out. I do not tell Cap, that half my appetite was dead for any kind of food, as the imaginary scenes off Hridhaan being the one to eat breakfast with My Sparkle, today – returned to Haunt my Head.

Minutes later, as we get into the dressing area , and Cap heads in for a shower first, I just take out my phone, first thing out and look at the time.

It was 1030 am.

The Breakfast time at Khushi's would be over by now – I guess? And that meant that Hridhaan was supposed to leave for the Polo club, soon.

I open my Whtsapp, and I can't help but smile as I read a couple of texts from My Sparkle, waiting to be read.

Khushi's text to me at 930am : Arnav..how's the swim going? Hope all refreshing and relaxed, its totally going to help soother the muscles, for sure. Enjoy your time out in the water. Ok we are done here with the little meet and greet with Ranajana aunty, hridhaan and Shivani, and are now sitting down to eat breakfast. Dad's literally cornered Hridhaan into telling him all about the current POLO, gaming scene in India.He's literally asked Hridhaan to sit next to him at the breakfast table, so that he can talk to him about it. Haha...like Dad can be so funny sometimes. I did apologize to him, just incase he thoughts Dad's gamer avatar was a little awkward, he was all like – No way khushi...you don't need to apologize at all, I am really going to enjoy talking to uncle about it.And well Shivani, me and Jess are all going to be consumed in cricketong converstaions and mom and ranjana aunty in their boarding school days. Its going to be an interesting meal time ya, for sure.

Ok everyone, my smile shortens a little on its own accord. I mean guys – just look at Mr.Polo trying to earn some gaming brownie points in there in front of Khushi's Dad. Dire Freaking times * Infinity.My insides are fuming with Envy as an imaginary scene about the same flashes through my head – obviously.

My eyes fall onto the next text.

Khushi's text at 945 am : Arnav...I miss you ya...ask me why? Because I am eating our favourite aloo paratha too...hows the swim with the boys going??

Khushi's text to me at 950am : ok guess what My favourite TV, the topic of discussion just shifted to last nights match.Dad can't get over your 6 straight four in the row, for Real, like literally, he's gotten all pumped up about it again, in that same dramatic way that he got after the win last night , as I enacted it out to you on the video call last night...haha...

Ok – that makes me Smile, a little.

Khushi's text to me at 10:15 am : okkk...so the breakfast is like still on as in the round off tea's and coffee's and guess what?? Hridhaan is just suggesting that Jess, me, and Shivani accompany him to the Polo Club this afternoon, as in he says his meeting is only like for about an hour or something and then he'd like to show us all around the polo grounds, and that got Shivani all excited as she's insisting that she wants, Jess and me to get on the horses too, alongside her, and maybe give a shot at swinging the mallet too...oh great as I am finishing typing this out, this plan gets confirmed, because both our moms have decided to join in as well...looks like we are all going to have a little day out at the polo club, followed by lunch there now Arnav...everyone is planning to leave by 1030ish now. Are you done with the swim? Please text me when you are na?? I do want to chat with you a little before we set out ,for the day...waiting for your text...My Noise Cancelling Headphones...

Wait.what?? What the f***??Mr.Polo's now on the verge of executing a Full fledeged Day out with My Sparkle, at the Polo Club?? I am sure he wants to make an impression by mounting on The Horse, in front of my Sparkle.And both their Mother's are also going to be there?? This situation = Dire Times* Infinity* Infinity.

Khushi's text to me at 1020 am : hey you...my noise Cancelling headphone...(hearts)please note my insides are on the verge of getting all zoned out in your thoughts just now, like literally, even when I am on the dining table with everyone...what are you doing to me ya Arnav...still swimming?? Ohk please don't laugh as you read this, or wait, I just know you will bite back your grin anyway – my eyes are all like going on with their * we are going to stay Drowned in the Lost City of Atlantis of Arnav's eyes* Alert, as a imagery of how you looked into my eyes this morning,flashes through my head....(hearts)

Ok that Makes my Heart all Warm and Fuzzy,and I grin to myself but as my eyes fall on the time again, my grin shortens on its own accord, for its almost 10:34 am, and Khushi did mention that everyone was planning to leave by 1030.

I quickly text her, as I take my seat on the bench in the dressing area, with still just my towel around my waist. Changing, showering and heading up to breakfast could wait for a bit.

Me : hey you Sparkle, I just saw your messages, am sorry. Got a little late stepping outta the pool, since got chatting up with Cap, will tell you all about that in detail, as we talk on the phone/video call...where are you? have you all left ?

My phone beeps in twenty seconds.

Her : areee ufff ya why are you sorry ya? I understand obviously.oh yes will be waiting to know all about your talk with Cap. The picture of the two of you from last night is still raging up online. And yes, we are just all heading out, about to get into the car Arnav...Shivani is all like, khushi you must get on the horse today for sure...

Me : ofcouse Sparkle, please enjoy yourself with everyone, but be careful, for the risk of any injuries pleaseeeee...you have a the 50 over domestic season coming up soon too..

Her : you know what? I just love it, how you are so like subtly caring as in you express your concern and care always, but you aren't like dominant about it..(hearts)

Me : really? you love that??

Her : oh yes I do...you know I do...also don't worry at all, ill obviously be very careful..too...Shivani is obviously going to be there for help...okkk Arnav...got into the car , and I took the bucket seat right at the back, because I wanted to text with you thinking that Jess would take the seat next to me, but Ranjana aunty came up into the bucket seat first, saying that she wants to chat up with me to know more about my cricket journey because she wants me to like guide Shivani through and everything.....so..i wont be able to chat abhi..but I will text you the minute I can ok? I miss you, so much. Can't wait to see you on the 18th. (hearts). You haven't even had breakfast yet na?? please have some...and rest a little out as well , k? hope the swim helped the sore muscles from last nights game...

I groan.

Me : yes it did help for sure.too bad that you gotta go , already , Sparkle. I miss you so much. When can we talk? As in on the phone??

Her : soonish Arnav...promise...like pakka se...I will find an opportunity to just get on a wuick call with you with Jess's help but that will only be after we reach the club...k? okk aunty's talking to me now and I don't want to be rude to her and have my attention on the phoneee...thike??? Speak soon..(hearts)

Me : ok Sparkle...ill wait...

Her : I will be thinking of you, Arnav – infinity*crazy lot. My Noise Cancelling Headphones( hearts) ok, now please don't reply or ill end up texting back...will text you in a bit pakka se...putting the phone in my bag now..

I sigh as I press the lock on my phone, and I lean my head back into the wall and close my eyes.

I am so freaking frustrated with this entire situation of having Mr.Polo hover around My Sparkle, for all these days. And apparently, there seems to be nothing that I can do about it.

Sucks.

Big Time.

Think Raizada.Think.Rake your Freaking Head. There must be a way that you can counter measure this situation?? In like anyway at all??

Oh wait.

Guys.

I got it.

Freaking Got It. I swear to you all, I feel like how Newton must have felt when that Apple fell on his Head, that eventually led him to discover the law of Gravity.

I open my eyes excitedly and reopen my phone.

Right then Cap asks, walking to me all ready – " Arnav, why aren't you ready yet?"

I grin at him – " just gotta a quick situation to handle Cap, you make a move..ill see you there in five minutes..."

Cap nods and pats my shoulders and leaves.

And I quickly call up my Brother.

Akash picks up in a couple of rings and he says – " helloo bhai...hows the morning going?? Relaxing much, dad, mom, dadi, and me couldn't stop talking about how good a game it was over breakfast...also yes...payal, mine and noor's tickets all booked for the final too...we shall see you there.."

I say quickly – " that's great Akash, cant wait to meet you guys, ok listen I want to discuss something important with you, first..its about Anjali"

Akash – " yes bhai, sure...go on.."

I say – " ok so remember how mom was telling us yesterday that she's been like subtly getting Dad ready mentally, in all this time to think about Anjalis wedding and how the day before yesterday night was the first time, he actually didn't refuse to talk about it, and was listening mom out calmly deep in thought??"

Akash – " yes bhai.."

I say – " so I guess, this is exactly where, we have to capitilize on the moment...as in before Dad goes into a denial mode, let's talk to him about Anjali and Rahul, I was thinking Anjali and Rahul are finishing their exams today too, they were just going to be staying on in Nottingham longer for the convocation which is only in mid June, but I am thinking what if the two of us talk to Anjali and Rahul and see if they can come in for a couple of days to delhi, so that they can each talk to their families at their end, and maybe we can all plan like atleast a in- house formal meet in between us two families, so that the things can be a little more certain for them..."

Akash – " bhai that's a really good idea, we can totally have like a in hourse roka or something too once the elders have met and talked, and to be honest I think , it will be good, if we are able to have Anjali's roka, before you leave for the world Cup, as in you are going to be in Delhi too...so its kind of favourable...this whole situation....know what bhai? This is perfect...I cant believe I didn't think of this..."

Bingo That!

I feel as thrilled as I usually feel – when I hit a Six!

I grin as I say – " its still early in UK just now so they will still be sleeping...lets drop a message to Anjali to get on a quick call with us the minute she is up, and let us talk to her about this first, and then the two of us can also get on a combined video call, with both Anjali and Rahul , later in the afternoon, and talk to them openly about this...as far as my gut tells me, Anjali and Rahul will be more than happy with this development.."

Akash – " yes I think so too, I mean the last I spoke to Rahul , he did say that he was waiting for a signal from our end, so that he could talk to his parents...as in if Dad was now receptive and accepting to listening and discussing out the thought of Anjali's settlement..."

I say quickly – " yup...he hinted that to me too, everytime, we'v spoken as well...so I think this should be a good plan...lets do this.."

Akash – " let's do this, bhai..."

I grin to myself – " okk , I will call you in a bit Akash, gotta head for breakfast now.."

Akash – " ok bhai..speak soon.." and we hang up.

And I am back to Grinning like an Idiot.

Wait for that Freaking Sixer, from my end -In your Face – Mr.Polo.In your Face.

Guys.

I totally had to Fastrack the Speed of Building up the Family Connect with Khushi's family.

Why so?

Because Obviously, Dire Times call for Fastracked Measures.

And this was the Perfect Fast-Tracked Counter Measure Indeed.

Haha.

Guys.

Feels like I'd just Hit a freaking Sixer and a Four at the same time – because obviously as a brother I would be happy, if Rahul + Anjali had things finalised in a Roka, and at the same time, I'd be able to wade my way into Khushi's dad's – good books too, under the situation. It's a good thing that he enjoys watching me Play too.

I smile to myself, patting my back mentally for coming up with this Strategy, just in Time, and I make my way to the shower to get ready and head for breakfast – quickly.

Because – guess what?

My Half Dead, appetite for food – has just freaking miraculously Returned.

Who is a Goner of the Highest Order, in Love?

It's Me – Indeed.

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

TADAAAAA!!!!!

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

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

And yes.

Next Update : Shall now be on Tuesday Night. Have a Happy Sunday Everyone.Also I hope you all are aware that Wattpad is going to be down due to Maintanence for two hours on Tuesday afternoon.

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

Hope they meet soon and Anjali and rahul can get engaged awesome update

Our hero can not see his sparkle close to Mr polo.

He had to resort to a lot of plotting to keep polo away from his girl.

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee

So here I am today ,with a Update. It's a Long – 8k plus word Update, everyoneeee!!

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

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

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

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Text Copyright©mysticaltales11111™2020

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All Rights Reserved® mysticaltales11111

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CHAPTER 24.1 – NO MASQUERADEs or FILTERs..PLEASE!!

TWO DAYS LATER – 18 TH MAY, 2019

Hridhaan, smiles to himself, as he looks at the sight of Shivani, Jess and Khushi, still in the middle of their, flight Nap, as he walks back to his seat, in the flight. They were all currently en-route Mumbai to see the IPL finals in between of Mumbai VS Bangalore, which was to be played at the Wankhede, tonight – and they were scheduled to land in Mumbai, at 2PM. (Which was an hour from now)

He takes his seat, next to his best friend – Vikram(whom he had known for years now, since they also studied together at the boarding school, Mayo College Ajmer, for a couple of years in middle school, and then had reunited as best buddies at their time in London, as they both studied at the same university and trained at the same club in London, for Polo. After the two relocated back to India, from London, Hridhaan went back home to Jaipur and Vikram went back home to Gurgaon and resumed to play for the respective Polo Clubs in their cities, domestically. But irrespective of the affiliation, to different Polo Clubs, domestically, they both played for the National Polo Team, for India, as well.)

Vikram grins at his best friend, as he says – " and I just think, I saw you smiling to yourself, while stealing a glance at Khushi again.."

Hridhaan chuckles as he says, leaning in sideways to talk to his buddy – " well, I did smile to myself, Vikram but I wasn't really stealing a glance at khushi, I mean the three of them are sitting right next to us anyway, in the parallel row, so my gaze just went that way by default as I was walking back..and to be honest, I am just happy to see Shivi so relaxed with Jess and Khushi, you know in the last two days that we were in Delhi, Khushi really guided Shivi a lot with her interests in cricket, and how she could go about her training, infact they just didn't guide her, they played and practised with her too.It definitely means a lot to Shivi.."

Vikram smiles – " yes I know that, I am happy for Shivi, as she's getting genuine sincere guidance, from these two..you do know that Shivi is like my little sister as well, I mean since you know I am the only one otherwise.."and he pauses and he asks – " but, no seriously, the minute you introduced Khushi and Jess to me, at the Polo club the other day, I just thought to myself, I'v never seen Hridhaan, making genuine efforts at stealing a glance at any girl ever, in the ways you were stealing glances at her all day, that afternoon, so correct me if I am wrong buddy, but I know I am not, she has caught your interest hasn't she??"

Hridhaan sighs as he admits with a little smile – "well yes, to that...she's very intriguing, there's something about her that finds its way, to the back of my head always, it's been that way ever since I met her actually...I mean it's not like I am telling myself – oh lets think about Khushi, all the time, but I guess it's just been happening, nonetheless.."

Vikram winks at his friend – "which is great, Hridhaan, I mean you should be grinning then right? as in, your Mom and her mother have known each other since their boarding school days, and to your luck, they'v now reconnected as well, and are back to being bonded as great friends, so why not seriously think about pursuing Khushi maybe, if she really interests you, I mean you did tell me that you hit it off with her Dad too, right?i don't think, the elders will have an issue to this potential interest brewing up, in the background.."

Hridhaan smiles, and admits with a sigh – "and this is exactly where I tell you, that I wish I could just act on impulse buddy, and pursue her, but sadly I can't.."

Vikram asks confused – " and why not??"

Hridhaan shrugs – " well, because she's got her someone special already..."

Vikram asks – " really? did she tell you that??herself? or Shivi told you that..?"

Hridhaan nods – " yup, she did,as in Khushi told me, not Shivi and it was right before, we were boarding the flight today...so,you know the other day when I met her at the Sawai Man Singh mid game, she was a little upset about something personal, and I did talk to her a little about it, and told her that I wished that things got sorted for her soon, and well, in the last two days, or just basically ever since we reached Delhi, iv obviously also observed her smiling to herself a lot while texting away into her phone as well,when she thinks no one is noticing..."

Vikram nods – " clearly, you noticed it though, because you'd probably been stealing glances at her, right?"

Hridhaan nods – " yup...so anyway..this morning, I just thought I'll ask her about this cryptically, because somehow it just felt that one of the main reasons why anyone could be so lost in their phones and smiling so happily to one's self while texting is that, probably it's just someone very special on the other end, that they are in touch with...so yeah then, I just asked her, if the personal issue that she was worried about then, has been sorted now and she was all like – Oh Yes Hridhaan, its more than just sorted, to be honest, I'v never really been Happier, and then I obviously asked her if this was about someone special and she grinned so widely and nodded her head in five consecutive nods stating in a second, that yes it was all about her someone special, and I obviously wished her all the best for everything, and it was right then that the boarding began...so yeah..that piece of information is surely a bummer for me, or maybe the better word would, be Hard luck...but you know I would never cross the line, knowing this, so I think we are just going to be good friends, maybe? I mean I would surely want to be good friends with her, at the least.."

Vikram nods – " sorry buddy, but yeah not pursuing her, would be the right thing to do, and also for yourself too, I mean no point in giving yourself any false hope, in here, if she's already got someone else in her life...."

Hridhaan nods – " yup..you are right about that, don't worry, I will figure out a way of re-aligning the thoughts in my head "and he pauses and asks his friend – " but how about we talk about you for a Bit...you'v kind off hit it off with Jess too, and that too quite instantly, I don't remember seeing you get so comfortably talking around any girl so soon ever, since you aren't the very talkative one, yourself...but you'v been talking quite a bit to her..."

Vikram nods as he says with a grin – " well, she's quite intriguing to my head, I mean you know iv always had a deep respect for women in all kinds of sport, and I respect her point of views, she's got a strong mind, and well, yes lest just say I am interested in getting to know her more, for now..."

Hridhaan smiles as he says – " good luck with that, and wait, is she single though? or has someone special? I suggest you do check with her on the same, if you haven't already? I wouldn't want to say the words, hard luck to you buddy"

Vikram nods as he says – " thank you for that suggestion, ill check with her cryptically as soon as we land, for sure..."and he leans a little to the side as he looks at the three girls still sleeping and he grins at Hridhaan – " yup, ill have to wait until landing to check on that bit for sure, since I do think that they might just sleep through the flight.."

Hridhaan nods and he looks sideways ,and as he spots that carefree mesmerising smile on Khushi's face, as she slept, he says to himself in his head again – HARD LUCK – Hridhaan Singh Rajput – HARD LUCK – INDEED.

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Authors Note - Attaching a Picture of Jess + Vikram( Winkkkk😉😉)

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At Trident – Nariman Point

1:55 PM

Arnav's POV

Guys.

Guess what??

I literally finished my lunch today, at the speed of light. I am literally the first one to finish my meal, at the huge table, at which all of us players from our Bangalore, team plus the Mumbai team were indulging in the lunch buffet.

Why?

In excitement – of course.Because, My Precious Sparkle is about to land in Mumbai any minute now. And after she gets into the Car, it will take her, about a little over an hour to reach the Hotel.In my head, I am anticipating a timeline of about 30 minutes from her landing time – to the time she actually gets in the Car. So if I were to calculate that entire transit time, I reckon – she shall be here, at the Trident, Nariman Point by 330 PM.( It's a good thing that some Luck is in my favour as well as our team's strategy meetings and discussions, are scheduled immediately after lunch in between of 215 – 330 PM, as everyone wants to get that time off individually by themselves to just relax in between of 330 pm – 530 pm, before we regroup again and leave for Wankhede, at around 615pm , for the IPL FINALS, tonight.Also, Akash, Payal and Noor will arrive , at the Hotel by around 5ish or 530ish, since they will only land in Mumbai at around 4pm. So basically, I am so excited because I am really looking forward to spend some good time with Khushi in between of that 330 – 530 PM – because that's exactly what I need to just relax and calm my nerves further, before the Final – tonight.

Her.

To just, bask in Happiness with the feel of her in my arms.It's anyway been a little difficult for me to keep on that mask of Comfort on in front of her in these last two days, and not give away any of that inner uncomfortable turmoil of Envious conflict to her, away – because like I said earlier, I do want to come across as a composed gentleman on Mr.Polo's angle, in front of Khushi, because I know, to her - he is only just a friend, and Shivi's elder brother.

I smile to myself a little as I remember how My Sparkle – in her usual adorable animated dramatic ways, has literally filled me in on every detail of what had been happening around her as and when it happened, in these last couple of ways with regards to be it Shivani, Hridhaan or their mother, or her parent's equation with them, so much so that even though I was technically not physically present in those moments next to her, I already know everything – nonetheless.The fact that she literally tells me everything, with every bit of the detail in it, is kind off like an added sprinkly gold-dusty Shimmer in my Life – Indeed. To be honest, I am feeling a little guilty about the fact that I haven't talked to her about my envious conflict with regards to Mr.Polo. A part of me obviously wants to, whereas the other part of me is tangled up with the thoughts that, maybe telling this out loud to her, might make her think this is me, being immature or childish, or worse – non trusting for the matter.

I am right on that Thought, when my phone beeps. I pick it up instantly, hoping that its Khushi's text telling me that she's just landed.

But it isn't.Its Anjali. I am still grinning as I read her text – nonetheless. Why? You all will know the minute, I reveal the details of her text. So yup here it Goes.

Anjali : bhai, I am just going to share the snapshot of my final ticket bookings.

Anjali : snapshot of her tickets.

Just as I am about to reply. My Phone buzzes with Anjali's call and I gesture to Rohan, and Ravi, Cap, Veer, who were in the immediate seats around me( they were just about to finish eating their lunch too) that I gotta excuse myself, because I gotta take this call. They nod at me with a grin and I walk out the restaurant and make my way out to the little outdoor patio in the surroundings and pick up, Anjali's call.

Anjali says – " bhai...you saw the tickets? Both me and Rahul are landing at IGI, Delhi on 20th Morning 10 am. Also yes, Rahul is saying that he is going to be talking to his parents on 20th itself, I am thinking the same too, as in you will be back Home on 19th night only na...so maybe, you, me and Akash can talk to Mom and Dad about this on 20th too, so that the elders can connect the next day and maybe we can all then hopefully arrange for a dinner meeting at home/ as in our place or theirs for the 22nd, because it's like your b'day too. Will that work? As in You don't have any other Bday plans with the Boys na?

I grin to myself as I say – "Nope. No other Bday plans at all dear sister. If we are able to arrange for this combined family dinner in between both our familys on the 22nd night, then I really have to say that would like my bestest bday gift ever...you know since I'd be the happiest brother on that day too..."

Anjali - " aww thank you bhai. Its such a bummer that we are missing watching on your finals though as in live, we will be watching it here anyway, we are all going to this awesome place where its going to be only cricket lovers watching the screening of the IPL final. Sorry bhai..about that again, but what to do, you came up with this amazing idea so last minute, this was the earliest we could arrange, also we are planning to return to Nottingham by the 25/26th. Lets see, how it goes with everyone, and everything...all will be well no bhai?? Please, also call me before you leave for the Stadium. Both Rahul and me, do want to wish you nicely.."

Me - " yes, all will be well Anj.dont you worry at all. We got this. And yes I will obviously call you before we leave for the stadium too, akash, payal and noor will also reach around 530 I guess..."

Anjali - "yes bhai. Also yes, bhai a quick favour. Ok not ,a favour, a reminder. Khushi is going to be there too at the Trident today, as in she's enroute to Mumbai only just now with a group of friends to see the IPL final tonight, just incase you do spot her in public in the hotel or something, please remember to pretend as if you do not know her, yet. I have messaged the same to Akash too. You know how Rahul's so protective about any of this having any sort of an attention/limelight shifting impact from Khushi's gaming career as a cricketer, too..."

I grin as I hear that. Don't worry at all dear sister. Only if you knew, that it isn't just Rahul who is worried about this.

I answer - " yes, don't worry about anything at all Anj. If I spot Khushi, I will totally pretend as if I don't know her at all..."

Anjali - "ok great bhai...I gotta rush now. Speak later...also Akash said he will share the details with Dad and for now just tell him that I am flying back for a couple of days to just surprise you for your Bday.we are going to keep this cover only k? I mean until we talk it out with him..i am a little worried about his reaction though...it will be ok right??"

I chuckle as I reply – " yes, no worries Anj, we will keep that cover, and please don't worry about his reaction.Mom's done the background work and then Dadi, Me and akash are there right? we will handle him – if he tries to go into a denial mode.ok?"

Anjali – "I have the bestest brothers in the whole wide world, but know what bhai??khushi says the same for Rahul, too. Do you know I am like in touch with her all the time through whtsapp or on calls, we also talk everyday as she calls up Rahul. She is such a swweetheart. I love her so much already! Ok gotta rush now bhai...."

Ok Guys. I am back to Grinning- Insane. I am obviously aware about what Anjali is telling me, because well my Sparkle tells me everything, remember? But it just makes me feel really great to hear Anjali say this.

" ok.. bye Anj.Speak soon...," and we hang up.

And just as I hang up, and take my seat in a chair, in outdoor seating area, my Phone beeps.

It's My Sparkle.

I open my WhatsApp, leaning back comfortably into the chair.

Her : heyyyy youuu My Strangerrr...we just Landed. Actually, still on the runway in taxi, and well obviously I could not wait to just switch on my phone to text you ya....like omg...you have no idea how hyper excited the YO- YO's in the pit of my stomach + intestines are, at the thought of just seeing you in like a while!!! I am so so so excited. So freaking excited that I could stand up in my seat and dance in glee.( ok please note, technically I am not doing that, but all of my Insides are indulging in an imaginary gleeful dance anyway. The Supreme Courts of the heart have declared an official holiday in your name, today – you know as in like, we are taking a day off, so that we can offically get all lost into ArnavLand...(hearts)

I grin as I read that.

Me : ok so honestly Sparkle, I was keeping my eye out on my phone for your text since the last five minutes, hoping you'd land a little earlier.Then Anjali called, was just speaking to her.Both her and Rahul's tickets are confirmed. Please note that my Insides are collectively as excited too just see you too. And I really like the sound of ArnavLand(winks). How was the flight??

Her : oh yes, bhai messaged me too that their plan is confirmed. As in I just saw it after landing, I am super glad that you came up with this idea ya Arnav...as in its going to be so good for bhai and Anjali, you know he's been wanting to formalise things for a while now...so am like so excited about all of that to actually happen. Also, yes...the flight was great Arnav...I slept through most of it, after the snacks bit, because sleep was the only way I could counter my excitement no, or the whacky me would just walk to the pilot and be like – sir, can you please increase the speed you are flying this plane at? You know so that we can reach Mumbai faster...(winkssss). And you really like the sound of ArnavLand?Wait wait I will tell you all about its inception when I actually meet you in real time as in not on text. So anyway, right before I slept, I just kind off just had you on my mind as I closed my eyes, which served as My exact Noise Cancelling headphones and enjoyed a deep relaxing slumber with a smile on my Face, for real. Like why can't I just stop thinking off you, as in I obviously do not want to stop thinking off You. But it's Like – Your thoughts are dominating all of me, like all the time. How Crazy am I turning for you?Please tell me where can I find that self-declaration form, where in – I declare myself absolutely Nuts and Crazy about You. Or wait?? Why don't I just make one myself? You know like the Promissory Summon?(winks)

I chuckle as I read that.

Me : now that's a self declaration form I would really be interested in reading, Sparkle.(winks ) please know, I will be copying your template for the very same, this time too.also, how was the flight for everyone else?

Her : haha...very funny...a self-disclaimer form coming up soon for you then...and the flight was good for everyone, I guess, since they are all smiling and are all relaxed. Jess and Shivani also slept for most of the flight. Hridhaan and Vikram were awake though, and I think they were amidst their Polo talks and everything. You had lunch?? Also you did say that the strategy meetings and everything will start soon post lunch too...so i hope I am not keeping you late or something?? I mean, it is the finals afterall.(also, we are all getting off the plane now...you know we all just have cabin bags mostly, no check in luggage, so I anticipate us getting into the car in another 15- 20 minutes, since Hridhaan and Vikram are suggesting, we pick up some snacks and sandwiches on the way to munch on , in the car. We should be making a move in the car by 230ish I guess.

Me : that's exactly what I was thinking too Sparkle, which means you will be here by 330 Pm mostly, yes please definitely catch up on a little snack in the car as well. Also please, you aren't keeping me late from anything...ok?why would you even say that Sparkle? Don't worry about that at all. We still have a couple of minutes to the meetings since it only starts by 215PM. And yes, I finished lunch and everyone else is just finishing up on it. I JUST CANNOT WAIT TO SEE YOU.It's, a good thing that the meetings are going to keep me occupied until your arrival. Spenind some time with Just You – is exactly what I need, before the final tonight.

Her : I JUST CANNOT WAIT TO SEE YOU TOO.Also yes, I do need to fill you in about a little conversation I had with Hridhaan, just before boarding. I didn't text you about it before take off, because I want to like tell you like face to face. Remind me about the same ok?please?

I feel my Insides twich,as I read that.What conversation did Mr.Polo have with my Innocent Precious, Sparkle now?

Me : yes,okay Khushi. I will remind you about the same, for sure.

I see Rohan and Ravi, now gesture me from afar to come and join them and I quickly text Khushi, that I gotta go.

Me: Sparkle, gotta rush now.Rohan and Ravi are gesturing me to join them back. Rohan's heading into a meeting with the Mumbai unit too, and we are heading into ours.

Her : no worries at all Arnav, please carry on. All the best for the meeting. Reminder to keep your phone on silent for the same - for I will be dropping you a couple of texts as I am in the car and we leave from the airport, and everything – but I also do not want my texts to disturb you in the meeting...so yes..pakka se keep your phone on silent...thike? Or I will feel guilty about disturbing you..(hearts)

Me : you know, you can never disturb me Sparkle.

Her : I know that, Arnav, but you know what I mean, right? acha now go go go...and I shall see you soooooooonnnnnnnishhhhhhh..OMG I am so Happy as I write this – like all of me is back to dancing in the Dreamy ArnavLand, already!! Please don't reply now.

I smile to myself as I read that, and keep my phone inside in my pocket and make my way indoors.Just as I step in, Rohan nudges me from the side as he says – " and I just bet with Ravi, that you were talking to your secretive someone, just now? As in the smile on your face totally gave you away to us buddy.."

I chuckle as I look at Ravi and wink at them both – " and well , I know that the two of you bet the same thing..."

We all share a warm laugh and minutes later,Rohan says – " cmon, lets get going – our teams are on their way up as well.."

We nod and start walking and right then Cap walks to us and I wink at him as I ask – " Say what Cap? Whom are you rooting for the win tonight? Bangalore or Mumbai.."

Cap looks to and fro from in between Rohan to me and Ravi, and says with a wink– " and that's a tricky question, I do not want to answer my brother's..let's just say, I am just looking forward to enjoy a kickass IPL finale, with my feet up, and see the two of you go into intense gaming zones on the field..."

We all share a warm laugh and Rohan and me pat each other's arm, happily as we all get into the elevator and high five as a way of raising an imaginary toast, as we say the words we always do to each other, while playing as Captains, to two opposing teams in the IPL – " for the love of Cricket. Irrespective the result, its going to be a good game anyway.."

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

3:25 PM

Khushi's POV

Guys.

Dearest Google, is mostly always right no?? As in, in terms of its Google, maps – function atleast????

I mean – it better be, because I really contain the Yo-Yo Excitement flips, within the pit of my stomach+ Intestines, at the thought of just five minutes remaining, for us to reach the Hotel.And the funniest thing, is that I have to put up, this normal straight face(even though my Insides are in a Non – stop, dancing mode) because I am , surrounded by Shivi, Hridhaan and Vikram too, in the car – no? As in, if it were Jess – I'd be openly grinning from ear to ear - end.

Would Arnav's meeting be over too, by now?Also wait – I obviously want to spend some good time with him, but how do I like meet him?

I groan at my Insides. Guys you were all so busy dancing in glee, that we almost forget to figure this bit out.

My Insides regroup in unison as they say. Oops K. Sorry about that, but you cant really blame us for being this excited * infinity*infinity*infinity, right? please give us a second to figure this out.Collective Discussion on.

I am right on that thought, when my phone vibrates.

Its Jess, texting me on Whatsapp.

Jess : you can thank me for this later. I came up with the perfect plan, to help you and Mr Stranger get some time alone.

I grin as I read that.

Me : Jess, thank you* infinity already. I was just thinking the same. Whats this plan?

Jess : I will help him sneak to your room Khushi.Obviously, as in I will watch out the corridor as in like on guard,(under the casual pretence of just loitering around the lanes of it) so that he can get in when the corridors empty and there's no one who'd recognise him. Just do me a favour though – ask SB to keep his Cap or a Hoodie on his head, and have his head dipped in his phone whilst he is walking down the corridor and everything.and I will also help him sneak out safely when he's all set to leave.just text me five minutes before though.

Me : ok, this is the perfect idea Jess. You saved my Insides a massive brainstorm session, I mean they are kind off like in shut down mode in all excitement anyway.

Jess : haha...I told you...you and SB can thank me later. Ok...now see Vikram's striking a conversation. Text you later.

Me : okiesss jess, I am happy to see the two of you hit it off ya...(wink)

Jess : Khushi..please.can we talk about this later?

Me : haha..ok..carry on.

I lock my phone and right then Shivi asks me something about the Wankhede's boundary lengths and we fall into a comfortable chatter.(I am at the back, in the bucket seat and Shivi is next to me. Jess and Vikram are in the middle bucket seats and Hridhaan is in the front seat.)

A couple of minutes later, Shivi gets a call from Ranjana aunty and she takes it, and it is right then , my phone beeps.

It's Arnav – this time.

Him : Sparkle, I just got free, finished with all the meetings and everything, everyones retired to their respective rooms, how far are you?? please tell me you are reaching soon.

I smile as I reply.

Me : hey you My Stranger, happy to report that Google maps tells me that I am reaching the Hotel in the next two minutes 30 seconds...like Yippppeeeeeeeeeee!!

Him : Okkkk, I am heading to the Reception lobby, then.

Me : wait what??? Arnav?? You are heading to the Reception??

Him : ofcourse Sparkle, I mean I just have to see you the minute you enter. Don't worry about it.Going to keep the Pretence Mode On, and just see you from afar.Lets just say, I am going to find a reason to fall into a chat with the Hotel manager that I have known for years now. I mean that way, I won't miss out on seeing you, the minute you reach atleast.

I grin.

Me : God...Arnav...this is crazy...but exciting too. As in, I will at least catch a glimpse of you too. Please don't lock your gaze with mine though, from across..k? it will be very difficult for me to pull away from your gaze, then,also yes, Jess has come up with the perfect plan to help us meet too. Will text you about it, as I am making my way up to the room.k?

Him : did she now? That's great Sparkle. I have reached the Lobby.You? why does this last minute have to feel like eternity?

Me : haha...(winks)

Him : no really! Ok, I see the manager, and I am just walking up to him, have called him aside for a little chatter, and we are probably going to be seated, in the seating area, right behind the reception – where you will all check in.

Me : Okkiesss Arnav...ok...the Car is pulling in to the Drive way....(hearts)

About, two minutes later, we are all making our way in through the lobby.Jess and Vikram are walking a little up front, busy in their chatter, and I am walking next to Shivani and Hridhaan is right next to her.

I am so freaking Nervous + Excited – everyone.

Can't wait to just reach that Check In – Counter and see My Stranger. Just as we take a little left turn from the enterance corridor, towards the Reception counter now, as being guided by one of the Hotel's staff – my eyes, instantly look out towards the seating area, Arnav had mentioned in the text and just as I look that way – my eyes finally fall on Arnav's frame as he is busy in conversation with the Manager, and it is right that very second he looks up too and our eyes lock for a nano-second from across and well because I can read him so well by now – I instantly spot a lot of intense emotion swim through his eyes as he continues to look our way, while still continuing to be in conversation with the Manager.

Right then I hear Shivani say in glee – " oh my god, bhai, khushi..do you see what I see? That's ASR. Right there, in front of us?? I mean look?? He's busy in conversation with someone though...but look at my luck...we are surely going to spot a lot of players todayyyy....i am keeping my camera ready for selfies this time, "

I look away from Arnav's gaze instantly as I pretend to ask Shivi (As if I hadn't spotted Arnav at all)– " really?? is it Skipper ASR?"

Hridhaan looks at where Shivani is gesturing too as well and he smiles – " yes Khushi,shivi is right , well its him, I know you are a big fan of his game too, we can surely meet him today later on as in right now he does look like he is busy in a conversation,and I think it will be rude to just interrupt and walk over..so maybe later.."

I nod – " yes, sure,as in it will be rude if we just walk over and interrupt indeed..so yes maybe later.."

Hridhaan grins – " c'mon then let's get the check in formalities done, Vikram and jess are already upfront by the counter.."

I nod and Hridhaan gestures me to walk up next to him and Shivani and just as I am about to do that, I do look at the area where Arnav is seated, and I think I just spotted a little bit of a familiar flinch in his frame,(that he immediately covered up) as our eyes locked from across for a brief second, before I went on to stand next to Shivi, Hridhaan, Jess and Vikram at the check in counter – puzzled. Puzzled because, even though I had been spotting this flinch in his frame, I was confused as to why was he covering it up.

I hear my Mind say. Bingoo K. Its that same, Familiar Flinch that we'v spotted in his frame, the one that he's been covering up the very next second, especially on these last two days on every video call, the minute you start filling him in, over every Detail which includes Hridhaan. I bet you, he just flinched the same way, because he's a tad bit uncomfortable seeing Hridhaan right next to you just now, in reality, in the same frame.

I hear my Heart chip In. Oh dear Mind, the right word wouldn't be uncomfortable. It would be Jealous or Envious – perhaps? He's just plain out Jealous. I'v been saying that to you , for the last two days.

My eyes chip in. Yup, I agree with the Heart here. He is Jealous. Totally Jealous.

I groan to my Insides. Guys, that's what I am puzzled about, as in just incase this is causing him any discomfort whatsoever, why is he not talking to me about it? You do know that just last night, I was almost about to ask him the same, but then I didn't, because I thought id just talk to him about this face to face, maybe? This is the reason why I want to tell him that I told Hridhaan this morning, that I already have someone special in my Life – like face to face.Why wont he talk to me? Why is he masking it?

My mind says. Hmmm yes, K. I have been wondering the same..

My Heart chips In.Dear K, I think I know why he is masking it. He probably wants to come across as being all gentlemanly about it, what if he fears that him saying anything to you about this, makes you think he doesn't trust you or something? as in he obviously knows, despite the jealousy that to you Hridhaan is just a friend, and that's all he will ever be.Please note – even though we'v got out back to him, I can literally feel his gaze on Your frame from Behind. Also, please note – we have a feeling that his whole idea behind – getting Rahul and Anjali to fly to India right now is also driven by the fact that – he wants to get introduced to Mom and Dad, like asap , be it in anyway whatsoevr. I suggest – you talk this out with him ASAP, as in if he isn't brining it up – you do it, for Him.

I sigh to my Insides, Guys, you know what, I think you are right, as in the best thing would be that I only bring up this conversation, with Arnav. You all know I don't like all this Masquerade business na...I just want everything to be like super clear in between of us always..

My Insides Nod – in collective Unison.

I am distracted right in my thought as I am asked to hand over my Id by the executive behind the desk, for the formalities, as we await for them, to hand us our keys.

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

Fifteen Minutes Later – 3:50 PM

Khushi's POV Continues

I am pacing around in my room (1706),in anticipation. Jess has her room next to mine, which is (1705). Hridhaan, Shivi and Vikram have their rooms on the floor right below ours as in the 16th Floor.We all just made our way into our rooms, about five minutes ago , and decided to just relax and catch up with one another in the coffee shop at around 530, too.

Arnav's going to be here any minute as in, I obviously texted him all about the plan Jess had come up with and everything, the minute we all started to make our way to the elevator to make our way up to the room , and he instantly texted saying that he'd make a quick stop to his room which was on the 22nd floor, to get his secretive Hoodie get up on , and then make his way here instantly. Jess is currently on the corridor guard right now, as she said, she would be.

My phone beeps.

Jess : open you door, already. SB reaching your door in the next four seconds. Luckily corridor was clear. It was just me, loitering around. It was totally funny for SB and me, to pretend as if we have no idea what we are upto, when clearly we have every idea about it.(Wink).now don't say thank you, do that later. I am getting into my room too, going to just relax and catch up on some rest in the meanwhile.

I walk over to the door, quickly and flip it open in an instant, and just as I do, I spot Arnav standing there, right in front of me, grinning at me, and as our eyes lock intently - I quickly step behind, grinning like an idiot too, and he gets in and I quickly close the door shut.

And just as I do that – I feel myself being pushed into the door behind me, as Arnav, places his one hand on the wall , and he cups my right cheek tenderly with his other hand, and rubs his thumb slowly over my cheek , caging me in the circle of his frame, and giving me shivers in the process and he whispers looking into my eyes, giving me a mischievous wink – " hey you...Sparkle...long time no see..23 days never felt this long ever before...I missed you, dammit.."

I grin as I cup his face, the way he had cupped mine and say softly – " hey you...My Stranger, yupp...long time indeed...I mean I do have to agree that these 23 days, never felt this long ever before too....i missed you so much too Arnav...dammit* infinity perhaps?"

Ok his, gaze that was locked with mine – just turned Super, Duper Intense.

His thumb makes its way to caress my lips, and I just close my eyes, on impact and clutch his arm, with my one hand and I feel My Lips fall into a Tranz. K, he's going to kiss Us. We just know it by the way his eyes just lingered to us. Don't stop him k? as in shift your talking about the Masquerade stuff, by atleast a couple of minutes. We need to kiss him too.

I hear Arnav's intent voice fall in my ears as he whispers leaning closer, his lips almost on mine – "why won't you keep your eyes open Sparkle? Look into mine please??"

I open my eyes, instantly.

He whispers, caressing both my cheek with both his thumbs – "I told you, well in advance Sparkle, that I am not going to let you breathe, the minute I see you next and I won't stop kissing you, until I have ravaged your lips with mine , over and over again...so this is me giving you just a couple of seconds to catch up on all the breath in advance.."

I smile a little, as I admit softly , keeping my eyes locked with his, as I wrap my one arm around his neck, and caress his cheek, like he was caressing mine with my other hand – " I am totally okay with not breathing for a while, you know..like who wants to breathe when I have like a bonus ticket to ArnavLand...and you kn.."and even before I could complete my sentence, I feel Arnav's lips close over mine, immediately as he pulls me closer into him, holding onto me tight, and continues to kiss me very urgently, and deeply.

And I am Lost, in that familiar Daze as I start to kiss him back deeply with equal fervour too,as I tiptoe closer into him, and lace my hand through his hair and just try to match the move of his lips over Mine.

I have no clue as to how many seconds, have gotten converted into how many Minutes, as we'v been standing by the door, embraced closely into one another, holding on tight, and just kissing each other this Madly.

Yup.The way he's Kissing me just now – is the exact definition of mad and intense. I mean it surely feels that way, for He was right.He's ravaging my lips now. And I think I may be on the way of getting a hang on doing the same to his Lips too.

He picks me up by the waist, not breaking away from our Intense Kiss, even for a second, and I feely my body react on impulse and in a fraction of a reflex, as I wrap my legs around his waist, snugly(As if it were the most normal thing to do)- as he carries us into the room, and we plonk on the sofa, in the seating area, as he sits back into it first, and continues to hold me tightly, and continues to kiss me hard, and deep.

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

About many heated minutes, later, when I feel my Lungs send out an urgent – We Need to Breathe – K, report to my Lips, I finally slow down on kissing Arnav, and I think , he catches on the hint, as he slows down too, and I finally pause on kissing him , and pull my entangled ravaged lips, away from his, as I whisper softly, keeping my forhead on his, keeping my eyes closed, rubbing his cheek with my thumb, as his one hand stays snug around my waist, and the other fisted in my hair, (since we are still plonked on the sofa and I am pretty much seated still on top of him) – " so, that was the lungs sending an urgent report to my Lips saying– we need to breathe K.."

We both chuckle, breathing heavily and I haven't opened my eyes yet, and I think Arnav hasn't too. I think – he is as hazed, dazed and affected because of the super powerful intense kiss that we just shared, and because I want to let this out immediately to him, I whisper, against the side of his lips – " I mean, I paused because I needed to breathe obviously, Arnav...and now that I have paused, I just need to get this out to you first..."

He tightens the hold of his hand that was fisted in my hair, and kisses my nose and my cheek and he whispers – " sure Sparkle, I need to tell you how much I freaking missed you, all over again too..."

I feel myself shiver in his arms, as I admit honestly, sure that the vulnerability was evident in my voice, as I open my eyes too, to look at his face - " I can't take it...I just can't take it Arnav..."

That makes his eyes flash open in an instant as he cups my face tenderly and asks, worry evident in both his eyes and his voice – " Sparkle, you okay?? Whats wrong?? Why do I see so much turmoil in your eyes, right now? And what do you mean by you can't take it?? You can't take what??"

I admit honestly, looking into his eyes,brushing my hands through the hair at the nape of his neck,with the hand that was wrapped around his neck – " I can't take the fact , that you aren't talking to me about that turmoil, you'v been trying to mask off late...Arnav, the one that makes you flinch so very often, and you mask it up the next second, in front of me...why aren't you talking to me about it??" and I close my eyes as I admit honestly – " i wanted to talk to you about this last night, too on the video call, but then I just thought since I am meeting you soon, ill just maybe wait to talk to you face to face about it...since it just felt like you aren't going to talk about it, until I bring it up...."

I hear his intense voice fall in my ears as his cupped hold on my face gets a little bit more snug and tight as he asks – " you noticed??even though I tried my very best to mask it, I mean I was a thousand percent sure that you wouldn't catch onto this..."

I open my eyes instantly now and look into his intently moved ones and I nod as I kiss his forhead and say – " ofcourse I noticed Arnav, it isnt just you, who can see right through me, I mean I caught onto the fact that there was something bothering you, but it just took the stupid whacky Clueless me a little while to get my head around what it could be...and now that my insides tell me that theyv got their finger wrapped around what it could be, for sure,I obviously want to talk this out with you asap...because I want no masks in between of us ever Arnav...like can I introduce this bit as like the first added annexure in our promissory summon..an annexure that states – promise 6.0 – No Masquerades Please...like ever.. Arnav...like literally...or wait..let's make it No Masquerades or Filters, ever...Please.. "

Arnav nods as he kisses my forhead and looks into my eyes – " yes...you can surely introduce this annexure Sparkle, to be honest to you it was really difficult for me to mask it from you in the first place as well..."

I ask, concerned as I kiss his cheek – " will you talk to me about it please?? As in, my insides have obviously guessed that this is all to do with Hridhaan...it is about him, isnt it??"

His eyes widen a little as he hears me say that,but he nods sincerely nonetheless and I say – " talk to me...please??"

He kisses my forehead immediately as says cupping my face – " I will..I promise I will.....but before I get to that, how about you just let me take your breathe away first for a couple of minutes first again...you know since I'm moved with Intense emotion again right now because of the way you caught onto this before I could word it out to you...and I really need to just ravage your lips again with mine, bad and hard...you wouldn't mind that Sparkle,would you??"

I smile as I admit caressing his cheek – " I'd be crazy to mind that Arnav...as in I would never.." and once again, before I could even complete my sentence, his lips close over mine urgently as he starts to kiss me all hard and deep,urgently and madly and I can only whimper and moan his name Into his lips and kiss him back as deeply too,holding him close into me and clinging onto him as intense continued to deepen intensely.

And oh – what words was I trying to say out loud to him that he cut me out in the middle of the sentence, as he closed his lips over mine in this Ravaging Deep Kiss?.

Words –" I would Never ever Mind You Ravaging my LIPS EVER – ARNAV.LIKE – PAKKA SE *INFINITY*INFINITY*INFINITY to that – Indeed."

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

TADAAAAA!!!!!

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

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

Next Update : ok everyone, I did post a message about this on my Message board yesterday that I will be giving Two Updates this week, instead of the Usual three updates in a week. I have a couple of prior work commitments that I will be busy in for the next two days, so I mostly will be getting around to start writing the next update on Friday and will be posting it up as soon as it is ready, so if not by Friday night, by Saturday – surely.

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

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

Fabulous nice that they finally met

Mr polo now knows there is no future for him with Khushi. Lets find him someone else since he is such a sweet guy.

Sparkle has seen the jealousy hitting skipper blue. He is affected allright.