ARSHI FF : HIT WICKET MY HEART 2.0 - EPILOGUE1.0.Pg 44(8/7/2021)*Compl - Page 11

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee

SURPRISEEEEE!! Surpriseeee!!

So here I am with a Surprise Update today, coming up much earlier from its mentioned Schedule on Saturday. It's a medium length – 6k plus word Update, and i am sooo happy to be posting it up, prior to schedule today...like Yipppeee to that!!

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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CHAPTER 24.2 – NO FILTERs 2.0

ARNAV'S POV

How does she do this?

How is she able to make me feel so many arrays of emotions, all at once? And all of the ones – that are pretty high in the gravity of their Magnitude.

No wonder, I just keep falling in Love with her, harder and deeper day by day. I can't believe she, freaking saw through my uncomfortable conflicted turmoil, that I thought, I had been very successful in Masking Up. Apparently Not. Please note, that a very strong part of me, is extremely delighted with this new added Annexure of Promise No 6.0 that My Sparkle, wants to introduce into our Promissory Summons. Because, well when it comes to 'US' – I am not a Big Fan off Masquerade's and Filter's myself, because I absolutely love to share anything and everything with her, but I was just masking this Up, because a part of my mind was a little uncertain, about what her reaction on the same, could be?

But Guys, know what?

It's Time to Find Out. Because I am just going to talk to Khushi about it all – transparently. I cannot hold it in anymore, not when she brought it up in the ways she did. The vulnerability in her voice, backed by the sincerity in her eyes, and care + concern for me, dripping in her voice – kind of worked as a Freaking HatRick of Sixes to my Heart.

But, Raizada.

To get around to that much needed Heart to Heart talk with your Sparkle, you kind off need to let go of her Lips, first.

Dammit. Why? Can I not continue to kiss her madly this way, and bask in the happiness that I am experiencing at the feel of her trembling in my arms, and also have this Heart to Heart, talk with her at the same time?

There's something intensely passionate, about the way, she's responding to my Kiss, and clinging onto me right now. Its freaking driving me Nuts*Infinity, which is precisely the reason why I haven't been able to stop Kissing Her - yet. And I am not going to, for another minute at the least, or until she gestures me that she really needs to catch on her, breathe – again. I pull her, even more, snugly close into my frame, as I continue to kiss her – Madly.

A couple of minutes later, I feel Khushi lips, slow down in the intensity of their duel with mine, and her hand that was cupping my cheek, makes its way to clutch my tee, in a little fist around my collar which I think, is the signal for me, that she really needs to catch on a breath. I pause on kissing her, and let go of her lips, reluctantly now and she whispers, taking deep breathes, keeping her forehead on mine again – " so,that was like another, Requisition receipt for some Oxygen Intake – sent out from my Lungs, on an emergency basis..."

I chuckle - Happily.

How could I not?

Only she can make me chuckle, right after such a vulnerable, intense moment in between of Us.

I cup her face tenderly, as I open my eyes to look into hers and I ask – "Sparkle, you okay? As in I know, the way I just ravaged your lips, was very intense and I ...," and before I could complete my sentence, she keeps her fingers on my lips,and she says softly – "shh, don't worry at all, please..I loved it, I truly did...,"and I see her eyes glint with mischief now and I ask, narrowing my eyes at her – " what? what now? You just thought of something, didn't you?"

She nods and chuckles mischievously and gets off me, and I groan in disappointment and she says, walking to the desk in her room – "aree wait, na...I am going to be back by your side in just a second..."

I nod happily, as I see her – pick out the stationery pad of the hotel as, she walks back to take her seat next to me on the sofa in her room. She plonks herself, comfortably next to me, and hands me the notepad and Pen, and I gesture her to snuggle into my side, which she thankfully does and I ask, puzzled and amused as I hold onto the Notepad and Pen – " Sparkle, what's this for??"

Khushi chuckles, as she says – " it is for two very important things – I shall talk about the first thing, first, so my dearest Mr Stranger, how about you actually give me a Grade – as in like take a moment, think to yourself, how was your experience in the way I kissed you this time, I mean, was it any better from the last??"

I chuckle again,as I ask, looking at her – " what?? are you serious?? Like for real???"

She nods, adorably – " oh yes, I am very serious, Arnav.. like how would I know if I have improved or not na...now come on...please..."

I grin as I nod and write down, exactly what I told her the last time as well : A+.

And I hand the Notepad Back to Her as I say – " no surprises, there Sparkle, as in, I told you, well in advance that every moment spent with you gets an A+, for sure..."

Khushi kisses my cheek immediately as she narrows her eyes at me, and winks mischievously – " okay, I really love the sound of that, for real – again, makes me really feel all good and everything and I think all of my Insides, especially mi lips, just cheered in a lour Hurrah.."

I grin as I kiss her head, pulling her even close snugly to my side – " and the world cup for Adorableness, goes to my precious Sparkle, for sure.."

Khushi grins and looks up at me sideways – " ya ya...see, now you are giving me the World Cup, you are totally like a biased examiner ya....Arnav.."

I chuckle happily as I kiss her Cheek – " please note for every future reference, that I am always going to biased when it comes to you, Sparkle..."and I hug her happily to my side again as I ask – " ok now what's the second thing, you talking about, as in why do we need this notepad, now??"

Khushi takes the Notepad from my hand, and she turns over the page and says , grinning – " so you know we are all going like raw and authentic ok? as in why wait, until later. So I am just going to write this here, like on Paper, and give it to you, this very moment..."

I wait for her to finish writing whatever she is, and I am obviously trying to peep in and she turns around adorably as she says – " uff ya...wait no...like two minutes..."

Yup.

The World Cup of Adorableness, totally belongs to Her.

I chuckle, and I just hug her from behind in the meanwhile, by wrapping my arms around her waist, as she leans back into me, as she continues to write and she whispers – " what a cheater Mr. Stranger, you know I am not going to be able to resist this wonderful hug from you, and now you can totally comfortably look into what I am writing as well..."

We share a warm little laugh.

I kiss her cheek from Behind, my Heart glowing in Happiness as I Spot what she's written on the Notepad.

Added Annexure to Our Promissory Summons.

Promise No 6.0 – No Masquerade's or Filter's in between of US- Ever Pleaseee.

Date : 18/05/2019

Signed : Sparkle.Your Sparkle.

And she turns around a little, as she hands me the Notepad and says, grinning – "there you go...see, I wrote another one of my names in the Signature this Time which means that the promise from me to you is,like pakka se * infinity wala promise Arnav, you know since it's like i'd rather have all these filter's stick to their usual locations in the aquaguards and RO's water fliters..there's surely no place for them at all, in between you and me..."

I burst into happy giggles at that as I say, hugging her close from behind – " godammit Sparkle, only you can crack me up this way.."

Khushi chuckles, as she looks at me sideways and says sincerely – " I am glad I can make you laugh ya...for your laughter is like one of my favourite music numbers these days no..."

We share a warm laugh hugging each other close, and she says, just holding onto my hold on her tight, sincerity dripping in her voice – " I just mean that I prefer our comminucation to be like totally raw and non-filtered, like that water that gets piped up, straight from the borewells and grounds, for even though it has its share's of sediments, it's like in its truest natural form na....and that is exactly what I want to be in front of you, always, like in my natural true form no matter how what a whacky nut cracker I can be in my head sometimes, and I just want you to know that you can really talk to me about everything, I want you to be who you are as You, in your natural true self, with me too Arnav...as in...you mean so much to me, so so so much...and you know that..i don't think I have it in me to leave any kinda space for any masks/or filters when it comes to you.."

I grin as I take the Notepad from her hand now and say honestly – " give that to me please...I am also co-signing this promissory summon annexure, like right here..."

Khushi asks sincerely – " you want to make this promise right Arnav? I hope you don't feel like you have to...I mean I would never want to seem pushy or something, like that is not my intention at all..."

I smile as I smack her lips briefly – " I know exactly what your intentions are Sparkle, so don't you worry about that at all...and I am signing this, because I want to..not because I feel like I have too.."

Khushi asks – " pakka se na? like pakka *infinity se..??"

I nod – " yes...pakka * infinity se, for real Sparkle..now cmon let me, sign this first..., "and I go onto add another signed section under where she is Signed her name and write down my name as Your Stranger - there too, and once I have done that, she kisses on my cheek happily and she tears the paper from the notepad and folds it up all neatly and I ask, instantly – " can I keep this, please?? I'd like to tuck it in the secret walls of my Wallet, when I go back to the room...I shall share the picture with you later as well.."

Khushi nods – happily and hands it to me, and I quickly tuck it in the zipped pocket of my trackpants, for now. Right then, Khushi holds my hand, and laces it with hers and kisses on my hand, as she leans her head on my shoulder comfortably and says, softly – " please note, I do not mind you ravaging my lips again, Arnav...in fact I'd really love that, but you have the finals to play tonight, and I definitely want to talk to you about the Turmoil bit, before you leave for the game tonight, because I obviously want you to go into the game, with a free mind, and not be weighed down my anything else at the back of your head, on the personal front atleast, so Can we talk about this please?? I mean I just know that this Turmoil of yours has got everything to do with Hridhaan's presence around me, and maybe that's what also triggered you to come up with that idea, of having Bhai and Anjali fly down to Delhi for a bit...isn't it??"

I kiss her hand, and Nod, as I admit honestly – " yes that also kind of triggered the latter, but there are two other reasons for the latter too, but first I'd like to talk about the first one, also please know that the only reason why I was trying to mask it up was because I was uncertain about your reaction to this, as in I didn't want you to think that, I don't trust you or something, because I obviously do, more than anything, in my heart I am aware that to you he is just a friend and Shivi's brother....and also because I felt like id probably come across as a silly teenager, getting worked up with envy, and not like a matured man, who is about to turn 28 in days from now, because trust me when I say this Khushi, I have never felt so envious ever before, and I felt all that I did, maybe because of the deep ways in which I feel for you.."

Khushi clutches on my arm in a warm gesture, as she looks up at me sideways and says with an heartwarming smile – " I understand...I do...also,there's absolutely nothing silly about envy ya Arnav...as in it's a normal emotion, and now that I think of it, in my uncomfortable turmoil, when I saw yours and Pias pictures from the past, it was exactly envy that I felt too, perhaps?? Also please know that I could sense on the former bit too as in that this could be what you might be thinking, to yourself while trying to mask it up from me, that what if you think that I'd misunderstand your intention to be like gesture of mistrust or something but I would never misunderstand your intentions Arnav, because I obviously know it in my heart, that you really trust me..."

I ask, amazed – "you sensed this too??"

She nods instantly – " yes, I obviously did, look it's like you did not misunderstand my intentions when Pia's or Ayana's matter happened right??as in you understood where I was coming from , and at the same time you also knew that it wasn't because I didn't trust you or something, so I'd obviously understand too na...will you please tell me what's on your mind?? When did you start feeling this turmoil??"

I admit honestly – " well actually to be honest, it was that very day, in Jaipur, as in when I was walking out with Ravi for the match and I bumped into Shivani and him, I actually overheard Shivi and him talking about, how he found that earlier encounter with you very intriguing, and I could easily figure out by his tone, how he was hoping to run into you in the stands, that night.."

Khushi looks at me, with her eyes widened – "really??"

I nod as I kiss her head – " yup, and I also knew that you were clueless about the fact that you'd caught his interest, obviously I am aware about how Clueless you truly are, when it comes to these things Sparkle, as in you are totally oblivious to the affect you could have on men.."

Khushi pouts in dismay adorably as she asks – "I really need to do something about my cluelessness now, don't i?? how could I not catch onto this, right then??"

I chuckle as I kiss her cheek – " No, you don't need to do a thing about it, I wouldn't want you to change a single percent off about yourself, ever Sparkle, just be the way you are...k?"

Khushi nods and snuggles into my side – " please go on...talk to me, as in tell me everything, please...I just want to hear you out completely first..."

I nod and I do. I start to tell her about it all, right from the start until the very point – I came up with the Idea of having Rahul and Anjali, fly down to Delhi, for a couple of days, as a counter measure, so that we would get our families to meet, and about ten -fifteen minutes later, as I am done telling her that, I also add honestly – " and yes Sparkle, while we are at this topic, then I do want to admit to you the other two reasons, as to why I wanted to take a little advantage of Rahul and Anjali's equation, for our sake for now..."

She nods, and kisses my hand, and says – " please go on...I am listening..."

The sincerity in her eyes, as she's been patiently hearing me out freaking clean bowls, me again.

I admit, kissing her hand – " well, it wasn't just envy or jealousy driving that move on my part, as in yes I was obviously so very envious of Hridhaan, because it's like he was getting to be around you, to meet your parents, then the way he was hitting it off with your Dad, and then with the connection your mother's have, and then in my head, I am also aware of how you'd probably caught his interest too, right? so I just felt like having Rahul and Anjali formalise things would work in a lot of ways for us, as in, I am aware that we will both be very happy for our siblings first, then on top of that, I just thought that it would be the perfect way for me to get introduced to your parents Sparkle, as in I really want to get started on building a reppo with your Dad..."

Khushi kisses my hand – " why is there so much worry in your undertone as you say this Arnav? You know Dad is like your biggest fan.."

I nod as I hug her closer possessively – " yes, I know that, but he is a fan of my game, because of how I play cricket and everything, what I mean is that I want him to get to know me as a person I am , apart from Cricket, as a man, so that eventually he can picture me as the man he wouldn't mind seeing with his daughter, as in Sparkle, I know he is so possessive about you , and rightly so, you are so young and this is your first time being with anyone, and I would never want him to feel any kind off discomfort, because of your choice of wanting to be with me..."

Khushi kisses my hand, as her eyes widen innocently and she asks – " wait? But why do you think he'd feel any discomfort at all, Arnav??"

I admit honestly, shrugging – " I feel the same maybe because, all of India including your father, is very much aware of my very public past relationship with Pia, and I wouldn't want him or your mother, or even Rahul to ever think that I am not the right man as a partner for their precious daughter/sister, because of my past... I know your family is so important to you Sparkle, you love them so much, so I wouldn't want any of them to ever think that I am not the right choice for you.."

Khushi hugs me tight instantly as she says – " you are the right choice for me, I know it in my heart Arnav, and in the end, I know my happiness is all that matters to them..so even though I understand where your worry is stemming from, I do want to say that please don't worry about this much, ok? everything will be okay.."

I hug her back tight as I say – " yes, I know it will be okay, and that's why I have to start working on building a different equation with them, from now on so that eventually when they come to know about US, they wouldn't disapprove..."

Khushi hugs me tight – " I get it now, and to be honest to you, I am just a little bummed out that this entire situation with Hridhaan caused you discomfort, in the ways it did... and I know you know this, already, but I just want to say it out loud to you nonetheless Arnav, Hridhaan's just a friend to me, he's also Shivi's brother ,it's you I am Crazy about...that it's for you that I want to go around making these promissory summons, and sign off crazy self-declaration forms, I am Your Sparkle, dammit...please know that I would never ever do anything to break your trust.. "

I kiss her forhead immedaietly as I say, cupping her face – " I know that Sparkle..."

Khushi cups my face, just like I was cupping her's – " so remember I told you that I wanted to fill you in over a little talk that I had with Hridhaan, before boarding??"

I nod as I ask , loving the feel of her hand caressing my cheek – " yes, what about it??"

Khushi smiles – "so basically, It was kind off about me telling him very clearly that I already have someone very special in my Life..."

Ok.

That Makes My Heart – Jump Up in Glee for Sure.

I am sure my eyes have widened in pure Joy, as I ask caressing her cheek – " you told him that??"

Khushi nods and says softly – " yes I did, ofcourse...as in he asked me if everything that I was in the middle of being worried about in Jaipur was sorted or not, and I was like oh yes Hridhaan its all sorted, and I have truly never been happier and then he obviously asked if all of that and this happiness had everything to do with a special someone, and I obviously told him that it had everything to do with my special someone, immediately and then he just wished me all the best for everything, and I thanked him for his wishes, and the sincere look on his face as he wished me all the best and everything told me, that he understood the equation from my end ache se, as in that we can only be friends, and it was right then boarding began actually and Jess, Vikram and Shivi joint us, as we made our way into the p..l.."

I don't let her complete her sentence as I fist my hand in her hair tight, and pull her in even closer into my frame and kiss her immediately. Hard and Mindlessly.

I just had to.

Once again, I am deeply affected by the ways in which she is holding onto me, and I act on impulse and push her back into the sofa, as I get on top of her and continue to kiss her madly, as I wrap my one hand around her waist, caressing it gently and also pulling her closer into me. Khushi wraps her hands around my neck tight and starts to kiss me back with equal fervour and passion, as she acts on impulse and wraps her legs around my waist, making me groan on impact on the intensity of the moment as I keep my mind on alert for Control, because I knew this was all new to her. I had to take everything physical in between of us, very slow and steady too, because her comfort was obviously important to me. I never wanted her to regret even a second – she'd spent with me. I pull back from our intense kiss for a second, as I ask – " you ok Sparkle? Please tell me if you aren't feeling okay or comfortable, I would never want you to regret even a single second in between of us.."

Khushi cups my face and caresses my cheek – " I am okay..i would never regret even a single second in between of us, ever Arnav..."and she closes her eyes adorably and says – " ok..let me just say this out loud...it's just that...since all of this is so new for me, I do want to gain like more expertise in just Kissing you, for now...would that be okay?as in for you? ummm...god this is embarrassing...why am I such a fool..."

I chuckle as I say, kissing her nose – " no, you are not a fool...and no filter's in between of us remember?? So open your eyes please? And look into mine.."

Khushi does.

I admit caressing her cheek with my thumb – " I am more than okay with the pace in our relationship on every spectrum Khushi.. you decide the course and the speed of it all, and I am more than just happy to be with you through it all, because that's what matters to me – You...Your comfort about all of this obviously takes priority...so tell me now...are you okay and comfortable as I am holding you close this way??do you want to talk about what's okay for you on the physical tangents, so that I can stick to my boundaries...for now.."

She nods happily ,caressing my cheek – " yes, okay...lets talk that out...I mean to start with..yes,this is okay, as in I am more than just comfortable in being embraced with you this way,also I am very comfortable with your caresses too Arnav....it's just that..i'd..."she pauses and closes her eyes again and says – " ohhh god...how do I say this??"

I caress her cheek lovingly – " just say it..please??"

Khushi says instantly, with her eyes still scrunched up adorably – " I'd be comfortable with anything, for now as long as we keep our clothes on..as in until I get more accustomed to all of this perhaps?"

I grin – " ok point noted Sparkle.Clothes On. You are comfortable, with me kissing you madly...caressing you, and you don't mind us being embraced this way...too?"

She nods adorably, opening her one eye to look at me, and asks – " is that okay??? " and I kiss her cheek again as I say sincerely – " more than just okay...trust me...please know that I would never do anything that you wouldn't want, like ever Sparkle.."

She nods – "I know...and I do trust you...on that.."

I ask, pushing her hair behind a little, caressing her neckline – " and just checking ,can I kiss you here?"

Khushi smiles and nods – " yes, you can ..."

I grin as I say – " ok..noted.."and I bend forward and place a soft kiss at the side of her neck first and she trembles and moans my name in my arms just as I do that, making all of my Insides groan collectively. Her moans, drive me Nuts. Obviously.

I kiss the other side of her neckline and I whisper softly in her ear – " so you know the third reason why I was actually driven to have Rahul and Anjali fly to Delhi?"

Khushi whispers as she clutches on my arm tight, as I continue to trail down soft kisses down her neckline - " ahaan?? what's the third reason??"

I lean up on my hand and wink at her mischeviosuly as I say – " it will help me get more chances of seeing you in Delhi , right? as in we are both going to be in Delhi for a while , and a couple of our family meetings will mean that I will get to see you nonetheless, even though we will be in the pretend mode.."

Khushi grins mischeviously – " oohhhhh, I am so very thrilled by this, for real.. I must say that's very clever off you Skipper Blue, one move and it serves so many of your purposes..."

I chuckle as I admit – " what can I say Sparkle? Dire times call for fastracked measures now don't they??"

Khushi nods and cups my face tenderly – " but hey..tell me once again, you feel okay about the whole hridhaan situation right? as in I am obviously going to keep a distance and be just friends with him , because we do get along as friends and there will be times, I will see him because of our mother's or Shivi...so...if you aren't comfortbale, ill think of ways to avoid him maybe...because your comfort is more important to me Arnav....i am so sorry...about causing you so much..turmoil unknowingly.."

I keep my finger on her lips as I say – " shhh...please don't be sorry at all...and no I do not want you to figure out ways to avoid him Sparkle, I am aware that the equation is such that there will be times that he will be around you, and It isn't just that, I am truly at complete comfort and peace now, now that we'v had this talk, I mean now that I have voiced it all out to you, it does seem to get more sorted in my head...and youv made things so very clear to him from your end as well, I don't think he will anyway do anything to act out of line..but beyond all of that, it's the fact that I trust you more than anything Sparkle, "

Khushi nods as caresses my cheek – "thank you for that Arnav..I am so glad that we finally talked about this..i mean our relationship is long distance, and there are obviously going to be people around us, at times, men around me, or women around you...but as long as we tell each other everything and trust one another, we should be okay? Right? as in I will obviously always believe and trust in your word,always too Arnav, because It feels like in my heart, you would never do anything to break my trust, or hurt me... "

I nod caressing her cheek back - " yes, I agree..as long as we tell each other everything and trust one another, everything will be okay...and yes Sparkle...I would never hurt you, in anyway whatsoever, I would also never break your trust...I promise you that with all my heart...again...". She nods and continues to caress my cheek and I continue to caress her's our eyes continue to stay locked in an intense eyelock. I am completely smitten by the moment in between of us, because it felt so close and intimate as in even though we were not even kissing in the moment, just the fact that we were talking this way, holding onto each other tight and being embraced closely– had a lot of intense power in it. I say now, looking intently into her eyes – " and well now that we are at it...I might as well be honest, I am not a hypocrite Sparkle, as in I truly have no qualms about you being friends with another guy or something, its just that I'd probably just get a little envious of anyone, who gets to spend more time with you, or around you...because I obviously want more time with you myself..."

Khushi narrows her eyes mischeviously as she asks – "ahaaan really?? like is it so?? so you mean is there a possibility that you feel envious of Jess too? As in you know since she is with me, like most of the time???"

I wink at her as I admit – " kind off...yes, I mean yes there are times that I have wished to be in Jess's place, as well...I told you, you'v driven me crazy, where is that Self declaration form...haan?"

Khushi chuckles – " ill make one for us soon...I promise...," and she kisses my cheek softly and says – " all the best for the final tonight, Arnav..."

I kiss her forhead – " thank you Sparkle..."and I wink and ask – " how about If you kiss me all the best, until its time for me to head back to my room....i mean that would be like a cherry on the Cake of Good Luck for me, indeed..."

Khushi chuckles and nods – " obviously ya, like why would I deny you that cherry on the cake of good luck ya Arnav...don't you know I shall be dressed as a true Bangalore fan tonight, again..like jersey, cap...flag...full get up on...like so what if its Wankhede, please know that Your Sparkle will be on screaming her lungs out, cheering for you all nonetheless...like irrespective of the result.."

I chuckle happily and she says, continuing to caress my cheek – " I know it's a very high pressure game, and before you give me another happy hour bonus ticket to ArnavLand and my Lips go into that familiar tranz as my insides take on their hot air balloon flight, id like to share a funny thing with you...can i??"

I grin as I brush her hair outta her forhead and kiss her softly – ofcourse Sparkle, tell me..."

Khushi looks into my eyes and says – " well not that you need like any advice because you obviously have like tons of gaming experience...but its just something I often think to myself when I am consumed in intense high pressure gaming situations, so that it helps me feel all at ease so that I can still keep my focus on giving it my best shot in the field, as in we may win or lose, but atleast I will know in my heart that I gave it my best shot nonethelss and did not get weighed down by the intense momentary gaming pressure..."

I ask, intrigued – " okkk, and now I am really interested to know what this thought is...Sparkle.."

Khushi winks at me and rolls her eyes mischievously – " it's quite crazy and whacky though, but well you know me, so yeah here it goes – so I literally had this thought in my head just recently as in when we played the domestic semi's and then finals, for you know they were such high pressure games, so there I was telling myself on the pitch...Khushi just think off this momentary pressure to be like those thief/or robbers, who have come to steal you off that focus energy of yours, that's going to direct you to give it your best shot nonetheless...c'mon you can't let this thief get away with the robbery off your focus energy...just be ready to protect your focus, with your favourite weapon in hand, which is your bat...and obviously this thought made my insides laugh out loud and that momentary ease just helped me keep my mind on my gaming focus...so that I could give it my best to the team and to my game in those matches...."

I chuckle instantly as I say – " ok trust me, Sparkle, I have thought of many things in those intense pressure moments, but never did this come to my mind at all – and I think if I were to think of high intense pressure gaming moment as a potential robber at my door, I definetly think it would help easen up my nerves a little in the moments for sure...so thank you for sharing this with me..i loved the tip...my little hit girl.."

Khushi chuckles – " very funny..Skipper Blue, and you are most welcome, or wait should I just say Skipper Red for today you know since your jersey is Red, in the IPL...on that note, its almost 5pm now, you do need to get going soon, let me just put that alarm on..i don't want you to get late ya..."and she is about to get up from our embraced position and I hold her back to her spot, stopping her as I say – " don't worry about it, I texted Jess to call us on the landline of your room by around 520ish..."

She grins – " we can never thank her enough.."

I nod in agreement – " we can never thank her enough, indeed..."

I ask, brushing my thumb over her lips now – " you will see me tonight right? after the game??"

Khushi nods as she kisses my cheek – " ofcourse I will see you tonight, Arnav.."

I wink at her – " great, Sparkle, which means irrespective the result, I already feel like I won the final already.."

Khushi rolls her eyes mischeviously and adorably as she says – " haha.. as if...ya...you..."and before she can say anything further, I close my lips over hers, as I start to kiss her madly and deeply, again.

She instantly wraps her hands around my neck and laces one of her hands in my hair, and starts to kiss me back with equal fervour. I dominate our passionate embrace in intense ways, so that she knows that I most definitely was not going to let her breathe at all, until the landline in her room buzzed with Jess's call, and it was time for me to get going for the Final.

I don't know what the Result of the Tournament is going to Be. But in my Heart, I know for sure that irrespective the win or loss in the game later on - Today, was just going to be one those Precious Memorable Days of my Life.

Why?

Do I even need to answer that Guys?

It's obviously, because My Sparkle is Here.

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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 : I will try my best to Give another Update by late Saturday evening. ( you know just incase, I can't stop my fingers from flowing on the Keypad, and go into another - 'Dawn time, writing sessions', ...hehe..) But yes,because of my prior work stuff the rest of today and some more stuff coming up tomorrow, I also do not want to make like a Promise and set expectation for the same, just incase I am not able to finish writing the update. (so, chances for Update on Saturday are like 50-50...😊)

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

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Hope he wins awesome update

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee...

SURPRISEEEEE!!

AS IN 50% – SURPRISE!! (Winks)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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CHAPTER 25 – BOLD , GOLD & AFTERPARTY

SAME NIGHT - 11 :00 PM

@WANKHEDE CRICKET STADIUM

KHUSHI'S POV

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

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

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

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

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

We all share a warm laugh.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I nod, biting back my grin.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shivi nods – excited.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I nod – "I think so too."

He Does just that.

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

He's caught it – Clean!!

OMG – Guys. Veer is OUT!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jess nods – " only apt.."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BANGALORE – WON THE FREAKING IPL GUYSSSSSSSSSS!!!!

LIKE FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER!!!

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

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

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

I chuckle as I say – " me too.."

Jess – " me three..."

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

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

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

Jess gives me a playful wink.

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

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

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

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

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

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ARNAV'S POV

Guys.

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

– We WON!!!!!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It's past Midnight now.

I quickly text Khushi.

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

My phone beeps in ten seconds.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Arnav POV Continues

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It's Her.

Her : (A line of Hearts)

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

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

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

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

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

I chuckle to myself as I reply.

Me : of course I do like surprises Sparkle.

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

I take another sip of my drink.

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

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

Me : Huh??

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

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

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

She CAMEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!

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

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

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

I tap send – grinning.

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

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

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

Phone beeps.

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

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

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

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

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

My phone beeps.

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

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

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

I tap send make my way to join everyone.

Phone beeps.

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

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

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

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

This AFterParty Just got Super Interesting everyone.

Or rather I should say – BESTEST AFTERPARTY EVER!

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

3:30 AM – KHUSHI'S ROOM

KHUSHI'S POV

YO -YO* INFINITY*INFINITY*INFINITY

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

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

Phone beeps.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I grin at that as I ask – " really??"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I do.

I am TRANS-ed * Infinity.

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

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

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

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

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

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

TADAAAAA!!!!!

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

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

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

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

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Superb he won as usual awesome update

chapter 24

She actually wants a grade for her kiss? Its an A+ from Arnav.

She is there to watch his game. His good luck charm.

chapter 25

The nail biting final. He is grinning because sparkle is watching.

She wasn't going to the afterparty, but then made a surprise appearance.

Hellooo everyoneeeeeee...

I Hope you all had an Amazing Weekend!

So here I am with the first update for this week for HW2.0 as on schedule of Tuesday evening.

It's a long Update of 11k Words Guys – and since I wanted to Depict the Scenes, Simultaneously in both Gupta House and Raizada House, there is a little repetition of information in there(just a tad bit little), but I just had to write that necessary bit out as I was writing out the Scene, since technically even though as readers everyone is aware of the background, for the Characters in the story – its like a Fresh Piece of Information and Revelation na, so I totally wanted to be fair to the scene of both the Family Conversations.

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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CHAPTER 26.1 – 'DISCLOSURE' ..TIME's

1.5 days Later – 20th May – 5:00 PM

@ Siddhi – Gupta Mansion

Khushi's POV

Guys.

I am thinking to myself – like what name should I give to my flushed, and blushed cheeks right now. As in, remember how I always say, that they blush into the shade of a tomato ketchup. But what I mean is – that what brand of Tomato Ketchup, do they reflect. Like Maggi Tomato Sauce? Kissan Tomato Ketchup? Del Monte? Heinz?

Dear Cheeks – Why don't you tell me, what brand name would you like to be referred with? I hear My Cheeks Say. Hmm,K, we think its only apt that you chose the brand name of the Ketchup, that has like the darkest shade perhaps? You know, since that's the deep shade we blush into, all thanks to Mr Stranger.

I scrunch up my nose – in deep thought. Dear Cheeks – I think Heinz tomato ketchup has like the darkest shade. But before we come to a concrete conclusion on the same, I shall do a little research up in the Kitchen, in a while. And out of all the brands of tomato ketchup stocked up at home – we shall then choose the one, that has the deepest Shade.

Oh wait – I am sure you all are wondering, why am I wondering the above-mentioned stuff right now?

Well because, I am at home in my room, right now all plonked up comfortably on my bed, on my stomach with my arms rested on my pillow – as I am amidst this Video Call with Arnav, which means that technically and officially, I am all lost into the Mazes off ArnavLand, because he's got his gaze intently locked with mine, as he's just mentioned, how much he is missing me right now, and reminded me about some of our intense kissing marathon moments, from the Hotel.

Right then, I hear Arnav chuckle as he asks – "ok...I know that look, you just had a thought, that I am sure I want to know..what are you thinking, with your nose all scrunched up adorably, Sparkle??"

I chuckle as I ask– "you really know me inside out, now don't you, Mr Stranger??"

Arnav winks at me mischeviously – " oh yes, I do..now cmon teIl me.."

I chuckle as I admit, fanning my cheeks – " ok once again, this is all your fault, because of you know what you just referred too, that immediately sent me all lost into the mazes of ArnavLand, along with a blush up my cheek, that makes my cheeks feel like tomato ketchup, so I was just thinking to myself, what brand name should I attach to my cheeks now, as in which tomato ketchup has that darkest shade, is it maggi,or kissan,or del monte or heinz...and I do think that its Heinz that has the darkest shade, but I am abviously going to do some research out in the kitchen, before I assign a final name to my dear cheeks..but hey wait, I know you love ketchup, why don't you help me a little on this na...which tomato ketchup has the deepest shade? I think its Heinz no maybe??"

Arnav bursts into instant laughter as he brushes his hand through his hair, happily and I obviously share the laugh with him and seconds later he pauses, and says, locking his eyes with mine again – " godammit, what do I do with you haan? You have no idea how hard I would have kissed you, if I were next to you right now, and most surely before you could even complete that last sentence of your's.."

I chuckle as I ask – " oh really?? you just really like to do that? don't you? as in I obviously noticed.."

Arnav winks – " ofcourse Sparkle, and I don't just like to do that, I love to do that..and you know what more do I love? ask me what? "

I can obviously spot myself blushing even more, now, but I do not look away from his eyes as I ask, continuously fanning my cheeks – " what??"

Arnav winks – " oh there's a huge list in here Sparkle, the way you hold onto me when I kiss you, the way you kiss me back, the way you clutch on to my tee's collar as you slow down in our kiss in a gesture to convey to me, that you need to pause to catch on a breath, the way you...I love the way you tremble in my arms, when I ravage your necklines...oh yes, I love the feel of you in my arms..and I..."

And I gesture him to pause in between as I say, grinning and blushing – " ohhhh god.. stoppppp yaaa Arnav...like really, you know we both gotta rush in like five minutes now and if you go on with that list right now, I will be stepping out the room all flushed and blushed, which will make Daddy, bhai and Mom wonder – if I have smeared some tomato ketchup up my face for real ya...I mean you already know that, bhai is going to talk about Anjali and him to mom and dad, over tea time just now...dad's already home, all early from office today already because bhai told him the minute, he arrived home from the airport, that he has something very important to talk to them both this evening, and even though Dad and Mom were all like wanting to talk to him about it right then, he shifted it to evening, because he was aware that both of them had, meetings lined up till 4pm this afternoon...I mean he obviously didn't want to discuss this out with them when Mom and Dad were in a rush... "

Arnav nods and winks – " I know Sparkle...because it was the same scene here at home too, as in Anjali mentioned the same to Mom and Dad the minute she arrived, and we are all assembling to talk about the same as well...in fact I am very sure, I am going to have a supernervous Anjali knocking on my door in five minutes, with Akash by her side, rolling his eyes at her mischeviously and he will be like – bhai why don't you tell Anj, that she has nothing to worry about, at all.. Dad's been grinning happily ever since her arrival this afternoon, he even wanted to cancel going to work today, but Anj talked him out of it saying that she was going to be catching up on rest and everything and just requested him to come home a little early, and well you are already aware of how the lunch time at home went for us here, as Mom did try to whisk some information out of Anjali over who, her special someone is.."

I chuckle as I say – " and I can't believe Anjali didn't let her in on bhai's identity yet.."

Arnav grins – " she obviously couldn't, because she wants both Mom, Dad, and dadi to know at the same time...she was like to Mom, Mom it's only fair you see....you already have so much heads up from your sons on the same topic, ahead of Dad.."

I grin as I say – " you know what Arnav, I think bhai and Anjali planned this out at their end, that they will talk to the families at the same time, like simultaneously in each of their homes.."

Arnav nods – " yup...I think they planned it too.."and he winks – " its amazing that your brother is crazy about my sister, because one day it will make it easier to tell him, that Rahul, you are crazy about my sister, guess what, I am insanely crazy about Your's.."

I chuckle as I say, winking at him mischeviously – " oh yes, it will be easy for me to say the same to Anjali too.." and right then I hear a knock on my door and I say to Arnav – " Arnav...I think it's Bhai at my door...he surely wants to talk to me before we head out to join mom and dad, in Dad's study.."

Arnav chuckles as he says – " and guess what, there's a knock on my door too, which means its surely Anj, along with Akash.."

I grin as I say – " okkk then..let's hang up for now, and fingers crossed that it shall all go through smoothly for bhai and Anjali, at both our ends..."

Arnav winks – " I am sure that it will go smoothly Sparkle...I am going to make sure of that, because you see there's a very strong personal interest that drives me, right now??"

I chuckle as I ask, sticking out my tongue at him playfully – " ahaaa...really?? will you please enlighten me, with what this personal interest could be??"

Arnav smirks as he say's raising his eyebrow – " as if you don't know Sparkle...are you sure you want me to go into reminder mode, right now? I surely can..."

I grin as I say – " okkkk...wait...hold on that thought..we shall discuss this later on, right now we need to get going to be by our siblings side...bbyyee for now Arnav...ill text you after the talk to let you know how it all went, obviously.."

Arnav nods and grins – " do that Sparkle, ill text you too...ok the knocks are increasing and I just got a missed call from Anj,"

I say getting off my bed – " yup, same here...got a missed call from bhai...ok now byeeeee..."

Arnav winks – " where my Ravage kiss, Sparkle?"

I grin as I give him a flying kiss – " you gotta make ado with some flying kisses for now, My Stranger...ookkkk bbyeeee nowwww...please hang up na Arnav...you know I cannot hang up first pehle.."

Arnav nods and winks – " ok then Sparkle...speak soon..also please put some more ice pack over your below, for the whisker it had with the ball, this moring, during your practice.."

I say, grinning – " I will...pakka se...it's much better already though...don't worry much about it..k?" and I give him another flying kiss, which he pretends to catch with a wink, and he finally hangs up, and I make my way to my door, by tucking my phone back into my denim's pockets.

I open the door, in the next instant to see my grinning brother, standing at the door and he asks – " what took you so long Junior??"

I grin as I sidehug him – "I was in the washroom ya Superbro..."

He sidehug's me back and says – " ok junior, so I wanted to talk to you a little bit, before we get going to talk to Mom and Dad..."

I nod happily as I gesture him to get in my room, and I close the door behind and as we walk to the living space in my room, I ask, holding onto his arm – " ahaaa...tell me something...are you like nervous much??"

Bhai chuckles, as he gestures me to sit on the sofa now and I do and he sits next to me, and says – " yes, I am a tad bit nervous, Junior.."

I rub his arm, comforting him – " ohooo bhai, why? Why are you nervous?? As in now think what must Anjali be feeling, like if you saying you are nervous, then she must be feeling all like nervous * infinity perhaps??"

Bhai sidehugs me happily as he chuckles – " who says, I am nervous about my matter, right now, Junior?"

I look at him puzzled, as I ask – " wait? What? are you not nervous about that??"

Bhai shakes his head in a No – No, and gives me a concerned look – " nope, Junior, I am not nervous about that at all.."

I ask puzzled – " then what are you nervous about bhai??"

He shoots me a very concerned look – " about you, Junior ofcourse, what else could it be?? Actually, I am not just nervous, I am a tad bit worried too, that's why I am here to talk to you about it.."

I ask, still puzzled – " bhai what's wrong?? Why are you nervous? Or worried??"

Bhai sighs as he says keeping his hand over mine – " Junior, please hear me out ok? and do not get me wrong at all..my intention is never to hurt you, and you know that..."

I nod – " ofcourse bhai I know that...c'mon tell me, what is it??"

Bhai says, taking a deep breath – " ok, so remember how after lunch we got into this little chat, and you told me about your secretive special someone, as to how you'v been touch with him online, and everything..and that he makes you very happy, and that you really really like him a lot..."

I nod. I obviously filled in Bhai, over the basic outline of the same stuff, that I had conveyed to Mom. I grin happily, a serene smile coming up on my face on its own accord – " yes, bhai..what about it??"

He says, worried – " so I am obviously a tad bit worried, because I have absolutely no idea, who is this person that you are in touch with, Junior...ok please don't misunderstand this to be like, as If I want to intrude over your privacy or something, you were always very patient when I was guarding Anjali's identity from you for months...and I most definitely do not want to pry into your space too much know, as in I believe that you will tell me who he is, when you are comfortable, and everything but....." and he pauses.

I ask, with a small smile, curving up my lips, because I obviously understand, where he is coming from – "but what bhai?? Go on..please? I am listening."

He continues – " but, I am worried and nervous, because even though you are a very strong independent individual, at the same time you are very innocent and naïve when it comes to all these matters, and these days, specially online in the virtual world, people can really take you for a ride, as in they will talk something, say stuff, they might not even mean, and might just be indulging into it, for momentary fun...and I don't want you to be hurt or something Junior....look all I am saying is, that I just want you to be careful, that's all..."

I nod as I say, clutching his hand – " I will be careful bhai, trust me, when I say this, you have absolutely nothing to worry about in the context off Mr.Stranger.."

Bhai looks at me skeptically – " and that's precisely one of the reason's I am worried...because you call him Mr.Stranger...I mean, doesn't he have a name or something...look junior, this isn't fair alright, I told you Anjali's name atleast, I just didn't tell you that it was Anjali Singh Raizada..."

I chuckle as I say – " bhai...I will tell you all about who is, in some more time down the line, promise..like pakka se wala..but just give me some time na...all I can say right now is, just trust me please?? i am really happy in the space I am in right now, as in her truly makes me very happy, for real..."

Bhai sighs – " I know, I can see all that happiness shining in your eyes, the minute, the reference shifts to this Mr Stranger,"

I clutch his hand – " and I know my happiness is important to you..don't worry please..."

He nods, getting up and he starts to pace around the living space, in front off me – " your happiness surely matters Junior, ok fine, ill try to not be worried much, it's not like you are dating him or something yet, right?? just take your time, ok? and yes, do not meet him in like person, in real time, until you are like very sure, actually you know what, don't let the dating scene hover around in your head for at least a couple of months..."

Oops. Guys – Mom and Bhai, don't obviously know about the Dating Scene. They still think its at – We are getting to know each other + Virtual Conversations phase. I am I have to tell them bit by bit na. You all can already see, how brotherly possessive, bhai is being, right now.

I gulp down my nervousness, which arises because I obviously do not like to hide things from my SuperBro and I say, with a comforting smile – " bhai...just relax ok?? please?? I got this...I know I am your junior and I always will be, and that's why you are getting all worked up , about this...but once again I just want to reassure you, that you have absolutely nothing to worry about...I trust him, ok? and you just got to trust me and my intuitions on this"

Bhai stops pacing, and he takes a deep breathe, placing his hands on his waist – " am I coming across as a overwhelming possessive brother right now??"

I wink at him mischeviously as I gesture to him with my fingers – " a tad bit little..yes surely..." and I chuckle as I get up and hold onto his arm – " but like I said, I understand where you are coming from, and I respect that..so lets just say, that I am not as overwhelmed.."

He sidehugs me and kisses my forehead – " just be careful ok? I'd just hate for you to be hurt, I cannot see a tear in your eye and you know that, and if this Mr Stranger hurts you, I am going to hunt him down on all of planet earth if I have too, and beat him up all black and blue, with the heaviest bat I can find in your cricketing kit...you know since I don't have like any great collection of bats myself, just a couple of old ones...but your bats junior are like all professional ones and super heavy duty, so yeah...."

Ok.

Now that makes me burst into giggles instantly as I ask laughing – " did you just say that you will beat up Mr Stranger, with the heaviest bat from my cricketing kit...??"

Bhai nods as he says with a grin, now – " oh yes, you heard me right, or you know what even better, if the need arises,I'll just ask ASR for his bat, because I guess his bat will be a tad bit heavier than yours junior.. but I hope, the need doesn't arise though as in, because I don't want to see you hurt in the first place...."

I burst out laughing in splits as I fall back on my sofa, holding onto my tummy as I hear that. Bhai starts to laugh too now as he says with a casual shrug – " I mean, I am sure, ASR will lend me his bat, you know since Anjali and me are going to tie the knot soon, and that makes us family and I anyway have like a very good equation with both him and Akash, now..."

Oh Guys. Arnav is so going to hear this from me, in like Full on Animation Mode.

I just can't stop Laughing. My Insides are in a Laugh- Riot. And It's right then I remember that we have to get down to talking to Mom and Dad, and they will be waiting for us, over Tea. I compose on my laughter now, getting up the sofa and I lace my hand through Bhai's and say, happily – " okkk, sure bhai you can surely ask Captain ASR to lend you his bat, if Mr. Stranger ever hurts me, but how about we get going down to talk to Mom and Dad, so that we can actually move forward with the things in between you and Anjali, formally..that's the only way, ASR will actually lend out his bat to you..."

Bhai chuckles as he says – " yes, cmon...lets get going...I am sure Mom and Dad are waiting already..."

We start to walk out.

A couple of seconds, as we are walking down the corridor of our floor(where in, in one side its Bhai's room and on the other side, its mine) , I hear bhai ask, narrowing his eyes at me – " and this Mr Stranger, isn't Hridhaan by any chance? As in just reconfirming? I will be a little at ease just in case its him...also, did you speak to him or Shivi, after they took the flight out to Jaipur yesterday, from Mumbai.."( Bhai, obviously knows all the details about Hridhaan, Shivi, Ranjana aunty, etc – we all filled him in over everything, as and when it was happening)

I roll my eyes at Bhai , playfully – "I did have a little chat with Shivi, when they reached Jaipur yesterday and even today, but haven't spoken to Hridhaan... and bhai..no...it is not Hridhaan, for sure....as in you better get this message in your head loud and clear thike...Mr Stranger is not Hridhaan, and he is just a friend...just a friend..."

Bhai nods and shrugs – " ok then...but since you aren't like dating this Mr Stranger, yet...ill just go into a relax mode.."

I ask, chuckling – " why superbro? Are you going to go into a hyperactive detective mode, when I tell you I am dating him..?"

Bhai nods – " obviously Junior...that's surely going to send the alarms in my head buzzing, then..."

I stick out my tongue at him, playfully – " don't worry, I will pass on your message to him, about the threat with my bat.."

Bhai winks – " oh, please do that...for sure..." and he pauses and asks – " also, I reckon from what I heard from both you and Jess, it seems that Jess and Vikram kind off hit it off , right??

I chuckle as I say – "oh yes, that's for sure, they really did hit it off....."

Bhai says – " okkk, then I need to brush up on some Polo knowledge for sure Junior, for I do look forward to meeting both Hridhaan and Vikram soon, if not on this trip, then once I am back for good..which is going to be soon anyway..."

I wink at bhai as I say – " bhai, do me a favour na, please tell Dad, about Anjali being Anjlai singh Raizda, when he is in the middle of sipping his tea, for I am totally betting on this with you, that he is going to choke on his tea and go all coughing in shock and then get up on his feet and be like – wait what???? what did you just say Rahul..."

Bhai chuckles and says – " done deal junior, I bet the same, actually I wont be surprised, if he drops the tea cup in shock.."

I nod at him with a wink – " I know...that's a little risk though, I don't want him to like burn himself with the pipping hot tea now.."

Bhai chuckles – " ok know what junior, why don't you check with him the temperature of his tea, before I actually start talking.."

I nod at him with a grin– " yes done deal bhai..ill surely do that.." and we continue our sibling chatter on our way to catch up with Mom and Dad.

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

Meanwhile -

Sagar and Nisha Gupta were sitting by themselves, waiting for their kids to join them in – for the chat about something very important that their Son wanted to talk to them both about.

Sagar looks at his beloved wife and he says, taking a sip off his tea – " where are they? Didn't Rahul say, that he will be down with khushi is five minutes.."

Nisha looks at her husband, and takes a sip of her green tea as well – " yes, he did say that, I think they just probably got talking amongst themselves.."

Sagar nods – " maybe..also, I am telling you Nisha, I am sure Khushi knows all about what Rahul wants to say to us.."

Nisha nods with a grin – " ofcourse, she knows Sagar, you know that the two of them are very close...and guess what, I surely have a theory going on in my head, as to what this could be about.."

Sagar asks, grinning – " really? do you have a theory as well? I have one too, lets hears yours first.."

Nisha grins – " ok, so here I go with my theory, I think our son is going to tell us, that he is in love...he's surely met someone back in Nottingham,it' s surely the reason for all that extra happiness I spot I have been in spotting in all these months on the video calls, and my further guess is that,Khushi has already met her too, you know since she was in Nottingham in February, for the tour as well..."

Sagar puts down his cup of tea and says with a grin – " really Nisha, I was thinking the same, but let me be honest, I just thought that because of the way he was smiling to himself earlier today as he reached home, as he told us that he wants to talk later this evening, and not in a rush...but I couldn't connect the dots way back in my head, the way you did..anyways I guess, if this is what it is about and he wants to talk about it to us, then I reckon its serious.."

Nisha grins and winks – " well I am the mother, I do get some bonus intuitions you see..and yes, I am also sure it's very serious, Sagar..ok, I am just excited to hear him talk...and if my son says , he is in love..please know that we are meeting the girls family as soon as possible, to formalise things.....i mean I atleast want to go ahead with like a little roka, before he heads back to Nottingham..he did say he was planning the return around 25th/26th right?"

Sagar nods, picking back his cup of tea – " yes Nisha, he did say that, know what my beautiful wife, I agree with you on this for sure..."and he winks at his wife and says – " I mean, but really look at how time flies, we are now old enough to be in laws, maybe?"

Nisha winks at her husband playfully – " talk about yourself Mr Gupta, I am not old at all...but yes look at how time flies...our son wants to settle down Sagar, just the thought off the same is having all this intense excitement flowing within my heart right now.."

Sagar chuckles happily –"look at you...you are so excited, so excited that if it were upto you, you'd get him married within a week maybe.."

Nisha chuckles – " oh yes, I would, if it were upto me, but no I am not going to act out of mommy excitement... Sagar, let him come back for good first, get settled with work at office, you plan to hand over the entire pharma vertical to him, which is going to be a huge responsibility...we are in mid may already...so if the girl's family are okay with eventually, maybe a roka for now, and we can plan for a winter wedding in late December, maybe..but wait...I think we need to stop cooking up our hopes, I mean what if we are both wrong , and Rahul doesn't talk to us about this topic at all..."

Sagar nods with a chuckle – " oh yes, Nisha, the what if is always there, hence in such a probability,let's just wait, for them to come.."

And it is right then, they spot both their children Rahul and Khushi, entering the room, talking amongst themselves, with huge grins up their faces.

Sagar grins at the two of them, and gestures them to take their seats and Nisha asks – " and what will the two of you have? Your usual cold coffee's?"

Rahul and Khushi nod in unison, and Nisha says with a grin – " I thought so kids, that is why I have them ready here, already..."

Rahul picks on his glass of cold coffee and watches Khushi do the same, and he says taking a sip, winking at his mother playfully – " Mom, please...you gotta stop using the work kid for me now,atleast.."

Nisha raises her eyebrow at her son, as she exchanges mischievous glances with her husband – " what do you mean by that now atleast son??"

Rahul chuckles and says – " I mean, that..I am over 25 now, Mum..obviously"

Sagar asks, sipping his tea – " oh really is that what you mean, Rahul??"

Rahul gestures Khushi to get on with her question and she asks her father innocently – " dad, your tea isn't like pipping hot or something right??"

Sagar shurgs – " not at all beta, it's almost room temperature now, since your mother and me have been talking to ourselves whilst waiting for the two of you.."

Rahul takes another sip of his coffee and says – " great..which means, this is the right time for me to get to the point, straight away...Mom, Dad...I have something super important to tell you both.."

Khushi bites back her smile, sipping on her coffee.

Sagar and Nisha both nod in unison and say – " yes, go on, Rahul, you mentioned the same this afternoon, that the thing you want to talk about is super important.."

Rahul takes a deep breath and places his coffee cup on the centre table as he says – " ok...so here it goes...Mom, Dad... I am in love...like the truly, madly deeply kind off Love, and I am very serious about taking things forward, to cut the long story short - I want to marry her.."

Nisha and Sagar both – High Five each other Happily as they grin and Nisha say's – " Bingo that Mr Gupta.."

Sagar chuckles as he says – " Bingo That, Mrs Gupta.."and the two of them look at amused faces of their children and Nisha says – " well, let's just say that your Daddy and me were taking our guesses over what the matter of discussion could be...Rahul...and I totally guessed it.."

Sagar says with a grin – " not just your mother guys, I had guessed it too...just not as much as her, as in she obviously has a much more elaborate theory in her head.."

Rahul chuckles and he looks at Khushi, who is grinning sipping on her coffee and he asks his parents – " really? you guys guessed it??Mom.. How about if you tell us, what your theory is??"

Nisha grins – " so my theory is that you met this amazing girl in Nottingham, and I already know she is amazing, because well you love her, don't you?? and I also guess, that Khushi has met her already as well...whilst she was in Nottingham..as in the two of you siblings already have talked about all of this, haven't you??"

Khushi chuckles as she says, keeping the cup of her coffee down – " Bingo That mom.."and she looks at her father and winks – " dad, mom surely gets like some extra mommy points for always being like bang on...as in she literally sees right through us, but at the same time, she respects our space and wait for us to talk to her about it...which means that the World cup for the best mommy in the whole wide world goes to Mom..." and they all share a warm laugh and with that she takes her glass and walks up to her parents on the sofa and plonks herself in the middle of the two and hugs on to her , mother Happily and goes on to wink at Rahul, as she side hugs onto her father next and says – " and yes, I have met her for sure, and she is beyond just amazing, Mom, and dad, as in she makes bhai so very happy, you like just have to see the two of them in one frame, and you will know by the smile on his face..actually it's the same for her too..like they both make each other very happy, and they totally belong together..."

Rahul chuckles, sipping his coffee – " thank you Junior.."

Nisha looks at her son, and asks, all excited in anticipation – " ok...details, I need the details now, can we start with the name...please??"

Sagar grins and adds - " yes son, cmon...tell us the name now... Enough of your suspense.." and he resumes to sipping his tea.

Rahul winks at Khushi from across as he says – " Anjali..."

Nisha hugs onto Khushi happily – " which is a lovely name...where is she from? She lives in delhi/India? Or in the UK as in is her family NRI, I am curious because you obviously met her in Nottingham, this is obviously a possibility as well..."

Rahul says biting back his grin – " yes it is, but no mum...her family is not in the UK or from the UK,they are in india only, infact Delhi itself, and to add more coincidence to that, their farmhouse is just like 20 minutes away from ours, as in just the other side of the DLF enclave, right here in Chattarput..and her mother's family is from Lucknow..."

Sagar asks, with a grin – " really? Lucknow? Our good old Lucknow? This is a lovely coincidence son.."

Rahul goes onto give them a little brief about how Anjali's family shifted base to Delhi – years ago, for business purposes as well.

Nisha asks excited, minutes later – " ok...go on...as in her family, do they know about the two of you? when can I meet her and them??"

Rahul grins – " well she is surely in the middle of the same talk with them right now, Mom, so I am hoping for everything to go smooth at her end too, which means you should be meeting her very soon..you know since we both landed into Delhi this morning, for this purpose only...to talk to our families about taking things forward..and guess what, even though the two of you haven't really met her family yet, but dad, you'v surley heard about one of her brother's for sure.."

Sagar asks, - " really have i? what's his name? is he one of our business associates.." and he resumes to sipping his tea, happily.

Khushi is biting back her grin now sipping her coffee, in silence, enjoying the scene unfold in between her Superbro and parents.

Rahul grins and winks at Khushi as he now says – " not really our business associate or something Dad, you know him because you are a big fan of his game..."

Sagar and Nisha in unison – " huh?? What do you mean?"

Rahul winks at Khushi as he says – "it's true isn't it Khushi? Dad is such a huge fan, that he just doesn't even get up from his seat with Skipper ASR is batting on the crease right??"

Khushi grins as she says to Rahul – " well you are totally right about that Superbro, I mean Skipper ASR on the crease and Dad is in a different cricketing fan zone altogether.."

That makes Sagar, literally choke on his cup of tea, and he starts to cough up in the process, which makes Khushi pat on his back instantly and before the cup falls of his hand, he places it on the table and gets off his feet in shock and surprise and asks – " wait? What? did I just hear you right?? did the two of you just say Skipper ASR...there is only one Captain ASR that we talk about Rahul, the Captain of the Indian Cricket Team, Arnav Singh Raizada..."

Nisha asks in a surprised shocked daze too – " son, do you mean that Anjali, is Anjali Singh Raizada??" and she turns to look at Khushi, biting back her grin as she asks her daughter – " Khushi, is this true?? Your brother is in love with Anjali Singh Raizada????"

Khushi nods at her mother , with a grin and the three of them see Sagar now, starting to pace around the living area in front of them in a surprised daze as he asks Rahul again – " just reconfirming, you are in love with the sister of the Captain of the Indian Cricket team? And right now, she is in the middle of talking to her family about the two of you???"

Rahul nods with a grin – " yes she is, Dad.."and he looks at Khushi and says with a smile – " actually now that we are at it, junior, might as well fill in mom and dad about it all right..."and Rahul says, looking at his parents – " also, both her brothers are already aware about us, as in Akash obviously knew from a little before, since you know Anjali and him are twins, and the two of them filled in ASR on everything, after he returned home, from the Auz and NZ tour earlier this year, which also means that I have met both ASR and Akash already, as in in Feb, in Nottingham...they visited Anjali for a couple of days, because she obviously wanted us to talk to them first, before taking it up to both our parents....also, yes it isn't just me who has met them.. Junior's already met them too, you know since she was in Nottigham at that time and I obviously wanted to keep the bit that my little sister plays for India women as well, as a potential ice breaker from my end, but guess what dad, mom, no ice breaker was needed at all...as in they were both really kool, understanding and supporting, and I have obviously been in touch with them both over these last couple of months, which means I have this very comfortable equation with them both...Akash and ASR"

Khushi chips in happily – " also I have a very great equation with Anjali too, she's the perfect for bhai, and our family too...like perfect* infinity..like they were all so grounded, and understanding and supportive of the situation for real.."

Sagar sits down back in his seat in a complete daze as he asks – " wait?? What??"and he looks at his daughter with narrowed eyes – " so all these months when the two of us were watching matches together, and watching him play on TV, you were already aware of this development beta?? And you didn't tell me at all...how could you even mask this??"

Khushi shoots her Dad an adorable, apologetic look - " sorry daddy, I just had to, it wasn't for me to say, it was bhai's thing to talk about na...only fair..right mom?"

Nisha nods – " yes, fair enough...we understand.."and Khushi hugs her mother happily.

And right then a thought comes to Sagar's head and he says, momentarily concerned, looking at Rahul – " Son, I am happy for you, I really am, I mean I would have been as happy if Anjali wasn't Anjali Singh Raizada, because as your father, your happiness is obviously my priority and I am content in my heart today to hear you talk about your love with so much conviction, for sure, I always say this to your mother, it takes a strong man to back up and stand for what he feels, but since I am a father, this development at your end, kind off does have me a little concerned about Khushi...as in if our family connection with the Raizada's, comes to light right now, all the attention will shift from Khushi's game to this...and that won't be fair to her game, she's only just started out in the national unit, she's worked so hard for this, for years...so we just really have to figure out a way to be as discreet about this perhaps? For now?? Until the wedding atleast, so that she at least gets some more time, to prove her mettle with the bat to the board, the first year is obviously the most crucial.."

Rahul nods with a heartwarming smile – " yes Dad...don't you worry about that, as in I obviously had this on my mind, which is why Anjali and me, have been really discreet about this, as well only a few trusted close friends, know about us...also I already talked about this to both ASR and Akash...and guess what they totally understood..."

Nisha and Sagar ask in unison – " they understood??"

Khushi says now, smiling – " Dad, Mom yes, they totally understood and I even talked to ASR about this fact that I am not going to talk to anyone in the team apart from Jess, about this, as in both domestic or national because I obviously I also do not want anyone to think I am bragging about some family connection brewing up in the background with Captain Arnav Singh Raizada...and at first I thought he'd be mad or something, but he was very understanding about this as well..."

Sagar and Nisha, ask again in unison, in a happy surprised tone – " he was...??"

Nisha says now – " ok, cmon now, the two of you better give us all the details, about this time of yours, in Nottingham – meeting ASR and Akash.."

Sagar takes a deep breath and says with a surprised daze still – " yes, details, lets hear all these details kids.."

Khushi gestures Rahul to begin talking and that she will chip in, in between – and the two of them start to tell their parents about it all.

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

Meanwhile Simultaneously – Raizada Mansion

Abhimanyu Singh Raizada, along with his wife, Reva and his mother, had been waiting for his kids to join them all, for the important topic that Anjali had mentioned she had wanted to talk about. He was sipping on his black coffee, and obviously wondering in his head, what could this be about, and he also had a gut feeling telling him, that his wife and sons had a little heads up about what the topic of conversation was going to be. Right then, he looks up to see his children enter the living space and he asks his beloved wife, who was having her tea, sitting next to him on the sofa – " Reva, why is Anjali so nervous? You already have a hunch as to what this is about...don't you? only maa and me don't maybe...probably Arnav and Akash know about this already as well.."

Reva nods as she says with a warm smile, rubbing on her husband's arm gently, leaning in to whisper in his ears – " yes I do have a hunch abhi..and yes so do your son's..but yes,they surely know more details than me for sure, as in I know what this is about, but I do not know the details...that I will get to know alongside you and Maa," and she pauses and looks up at her children and smiles at her daughter sincerely and gestures her not to worry much, and that she is right here, to support her through this talk out in front of her father and grandmother, just like her brothers.

Anjali had entered the living area, along with her brother's Akash and Arnav ,where her parents and Dadi were seated, waiting for them all. She was obviously very nervous about the upcoming conversation, but she knew that her brother's had her back. She was obviously the most nervous about her Dad's reaction, but her mother's comforting sincere smile to her right now – definitely eased out some of her nerves – as the three of them take their seat on the sofa, in front of their parents.

Abhimanyu looks at his sons and says, with a knowing smile – " Well,I am obviously aware that the three of you siblings are really close, and you do talk to your mother first, but looks like the details of this topic is something which even she isn't aware off yet...."

Arnav grins at his father, as he leans back into the Sofa, comfortably – " true that, dad.."

Akash grins adjusting himself comfortably – " Mom knows a little, but not everything..."

Dadi looks at her grandchildren, in between sipping her tea from her wing chair and fakes hurt and says biting back her smile – " and I don't even know a little bit of this...just like Abhi...really my lovely grandchildren? And I thought I was your favourite??"

Anjali chuckles as she says – " well you obviously are our favourite Dadi, let's just say, I was a little embarrassed to talk about this to you, like directly before..."

Dadi nods and smiles – " ofcourse beta, I understand..c'mon tell us, what this is about.." and she resumes sipping on her tea.

Reva looks at her children – " the three of you would like your usual round of tea's and coffee's??"

They nod in unison and Reva picks up the intercom phone and calls up the kitchen and talks to HP(one of their staff members)and asks him to send the hot beverages up, for Arnav, Akash and Anjali. Once she is done, she smiles at Anjali and gestures her to begin now, and Anjali exchanges a nervous look with both her brothers who were sitting on either of her side, and both Arnav and Akash smile at her comfortingly and hold her hand, from either of their sides, offering their subtle support in the moment.

Arnav asks Anjali with a big brother comforting smile – " Anj, I can start, if you are hesitant.."

Akash nods at his brother and looks at his sister – " yes Anj, we surely can..."

Anjali shakes her head at the two and whispers – " no ya bhai, Akash, I really want to be able to say this to Dad myself.."

Arnav and Akash clutch on Anjali's hand in support and they both nod in an understanding and say in unison – " ok, no worries, we are right here, we will chip in , once you start.."

Anjali nods, and shoots her father, a nervous look.

Abhimanyu is watching his children closely, deep in thought, sipping on his coffee, and the exchange of gestures in between all of his children right now does not escape his eye, just like he knew it was also being noticed by his wife and mother, and right then he sees, his precious daughter shoot him a very nervous look and just like that, almost instantly, a thought comes to his head. A probability, as to why his daughter could be so nervous right now about this topic.

Could it be, related to a man – she's met perhaps? – he wonders. Could that be the reason, why his wife had been subtly talking about the topic of Anjali's settlement to him, for the last couple of months almost every alternate day, without fail? Because she already had a little heads up from their son's that Anjali would be bringing up this development to their knowledge soon?

He looks at Anjali again, in silence, and the continuous nervous look in her eyes matched with her fidgeting hands gives him the clue that yes, maybe this was exactly what this could be about. He smiles to himself a little now, and keeps his cup of coffee on the side table, and decides to put his daughter out of her nervous zone, and looks at her directly in the eye and asks – " you'v met someone haven't you Anjali?and you are in love with him, perhaps?"

That make's Anjali, Akash, and Arnav look at their father in surprised shock and they ask in unsion – " Dad,how did you...?"and they pause instantly the very next second as they look at their mother and Reva says, instantly shrugging to her children in her defence – " nooo...no...no...don't look at me that way guys, I didn't tell him...at all...he just guessed it in that uber calculative Raizada brain of his, perhaps?" and she turns to look at her husband sideways, and says narrowing her eyes at him – " go on abhi, tell them the truth, I didn't tell you...or else my children are never going to confide in me..thinking that I cannot guard their secrets.."

Anjali, is exchanging nervous glances with her brother's, who are smiling back her comfortingly, asking her not to worry much, in silent gestures of their eye, which she obviously understands.

Abhimanyu smiles a little to himself as he looks at his mother and says – " look Ma, all four of them literally planned this up, right under our nose...,"and he looks at his wife, amused and raises his eyebrow and asks – " so, like I guessed Reva, you knew the fact that Anjali is in love..,"and he turns to look at his sons and asks – " just like I can probably connect the dots in my head that the two of you know, who he is, as well..."

Arnav and Akash- nod in unison, as they say – " yes Dad...we know..in fact we met him as well, on our little trip to Nottingham in Feb.."

Abhi looks at Reva and smiles, and then looks at his mother – " aha..now you see Maa, that is what that trip was about..."and he looks at his precious daughter and says, with a comforting smile – " don't be so nervous please Anjali, you know I cannot see any kind of discomfort in your eyes beta...come here will you please? next to me?? I want you to talk to me.."

Anjali nods and she walks up to sit in between her parents as Reva shifts to the other side of the sofa, smiling and as she sees, Abhimanyu hug their daughter to his side, and Anjali asks softly, nervous still – " are you mad at me, Dad??"

Abhimanyu sighs, as he brushes his daughters head lovingly – " mad? Can I ever be mad at you?Anjali, why will I be mad at you for finding love beta...your happiness is important to me, I'd do anything to see you smile..maybe I am just mad at the fact that you grew up too fast perhaps? And that it's really getting close to the time to let you go..maybe? I am not ready though...but then I think to myself now, will I ever be ready??"

Dadi leans forward and brushes Anjali's hair lovingly – " we are not angry at all Anjali beta...I can't stop smiling..see..." and she takes her seat back, grinning.

Reva chips in happily – " ok sons...look your dad's all emotional right now, which means his soft window is open, for a couple of minutes, this is exactly where the two of you start to fill him in about every detail..."

Arnav grins as he winks at his mother from across happily – " good job mom...you did all backwork homework well so that Dad wouldn't go into denial in the first place..,"and he winks at Akash and says – " c'mon lets shoot.."

Abhimanyu chuckles as he looks at Anjali – " yes your mother's done her backwork well...Anj..why don't you start with telling me what his name is...and then I will get talking to your brother's..i am sure, knowing how protective they are of you, that they have done all the homework and enquiry into this boy's past and family details and everything..."and he looks at his son's and asks, raising his eyebrows – " I hope I am right about this, because the two of you better have all the answers to my questions ready.."

Akash and Arnav, grin at each other as they say in unison – " we do...for sure..Dad.."and Akash says – " and don't worry Dad, we did all the enquiry bit, keeping this conversation in mind, obviously.."

Arnav chuckles as he says, with a grin – " what Akash means is that, we obviously know that you are going to have a list of questions, Dad.."

Anjali feels her nervousness ease out all of a sudden in the loving, protective arms of her father and she says looking at everyone – " ok guys, can I start with the name reveal please?? there are a couple of things I want to tell myself, then Akash and bhai can go on with the rest...."

Abhimanyu, Reva, Dadi nod in unison and say – " go on..now c'mon.."

Anjali smiles and says – " ok, so his name is Rahul Gupta...lives right here in Delhi, Chattarpur..as in like just twenty minutes away from us actually..."

Abhimanyu's eyes light up at that as he asks – " really? just twenty minutes away..ok that's a bonus..i mean atleast you will be close...Anj.."

Everyone chuckles and Arnav winks at Akash and his mother and Dadi and says – " I told you Mom, Akash, this was the first thing what dad might just react to, with a smile.."

Anjali goes on happily – " and I just want you to know that I really love him Dad, Mom, Dadi...he makes me very happy..when I first met him, its like he was obviously in my course and everything back in Notts, but he was the only one, who would keep that little distance from me, and never out me in that awkward spot because of me being Captain ASR's sister..and.., "and Anjali continues to give a brief highlight about genuine and sincere Rahul had been since the very beginning as he saw her for who she was, and as they connected so instantly,their relationship eventually blossomed to Love.(She continues to give them the brief highlights of it all)

Arnav listen's on – Happily. Akash shifts in his seat next to him as he asks , whispering – " look at the attention with which Dad, and Mom are listening..but say what bhai..Dad's reactionisnt bad at all..he is actually in receptive mode, just listening calmly.."

Arnav nods, happily – " which is very good Akash.."

Minutes later, as Anjali finishes up on giving the highlights on much she respects and loves Rahul, for who he is as a person, Abhimanyu looks at his sons deep in thought and asks first thing out – " ok boys...this is where the two of you get talking...I want every detail, family, what do they do in case they are a business family, etc etc..you know the drill right??"

Reva is listening on happily, as she gestures Anjali to come hug her now.Anjali does so- happily.

Arnav and Akash nod and Arnav says – " ok so another coincidence, they are all also from Lucknow.."

Akash – " also..business family dad, pharmaceuticals and a couple of more diversified business verticles, like how we have in Raizada industries....." and the two of them take continuous turns alternatively and fill in their, mother, father and Dadi over every detail – Abhimanyu wanted to know.

Minutes later, as they finish up with the summary of it all, Akash says, because he had kept this bit for the last, for it was obviously like a super coincidence and just as he is about to continue with that, Anjali rolls her eyes at him and Arnav and says – " no...no, no no no no no...none of you are telling them about this, for its going to be me..."

Akash and Arnav chuckle as they nod and Abhimanyu and Reva look at Anjali and ask with a grin – " ok, what is it that's gotten you so excited all of a sudden Anj.."

Anjali grins as she gets up from her seat in between of her parents and walks to Arnav and sits on the sofa armledge next to him and says, lacing his arm around his shoulder – " guess, what mom and dad, both Rahul and me have siblings that are crazy about cricket too...as in they play cricket professionally – for India...like how crazyily a freakish coincidence is that now....."

Abhimanyu and Reva grin at each other and they look at Anj a little puzzled and asks – " but wait, didn't you guys say that he is the only son?? Arnav, is his sibling someone new in your team team? Is that why you were so comfortable about this, because you know Rahul's brother already maybe.."

Akash says, smiling – " mom, dad, we made it very clear..right that Rahul is the only son...which means...."

Arnav says, trying to keep a straight face, biting back his smile – " which means that it's his sister, that we are talking about, her name is Khushi..and she plays cricket professionally for India women..she just started out in the national squad late last year.."

Anjali chips in happily – " and you all just have to see her play and hit her sixes...she's about five years over younger to Rahul, is going to be 21 in august, very young and super talented, the Indian womens cricket team call her their little hit girl, she opens the innings for India, I am a big fan of her game, ever since I saw her play live in Nottingham, this feb...."

Akash chips in happily – " I have to agree with Anjali, I have seen her play , and she is super talented and has a lot of potential..bhai has seen her game too.."

Arnav nods and grins and says – " she definitely hits her Sixes a lot better and accurate than me, for Real everyone.."

Anjali – " Rahul, uncle and aunty have always supported Khushi's dream of playing cricket for India nationally, Dad..her mom used to be national level swimming athlete for India as well.."

Reva says excited grinning – " ok this is the cherry on the cake of all coincidences, for sure...i am super excited to tune into India's womens matches now.." and she says to Anjali – " you better shpw me some clips and highlights after we are done talking ok??"

Anjali nods happily.

Arnav is biting back his grin, his heart bursting with immense Happiness, surely.

Abhimanyu grins as he says, impressed – "this is super impressive indeed, playing for India women, I mean we all know how there's so much gender disparity in the sport, but if her family's encouraged and supported her to follow her dreams through, then I must say that, that speaks volumes about the fact that they are a very close knit unit....and the parents believe in believing in their children's dreams, to let them flap their wings around at their own pace, and carve out their own paths, which means not only is their love, but there's that essence of freedom in there as well, which does result in the ties of love being nurtured in its truest sense, bot being weighed down by the sense of just mere obligations....i like that sought of parenting mindset for sure....."

Reva grins and nods – " me too abhi, since it matches ours views on the same....we believe in empowering each of our children to grow as distinct individualities, into whatever path they may choose, always.."

Dadi says now sighing with relief – " and I must say, its very rare, to find families with similar thought wavelength, and positive , empowering outlook..."and she looks at Anjali and asks, excited – " Rahul...his family...do they know?"

Anjali nods – " he is having the talk with them ,right now, just like I am having the talk with you all....i mean the two of us flew down to Delhi for this purpose only na to talk to you all..."

Reva grins, excited – " ok...give us more details...tell me more about Rahul , his sister..Khushi.."

Arnav is about to say something, but he sees Anjali walk back to her parents happily and takes her seat in between them both as she starts to say – " actually Mom and Dad, Dadi, Rahul and me have been very discreet about us, because he Is obviously worried as a brother that our family associations in the backend, because of us, could impact Khushi's gaming profile, where in everyone's attention can shift from her abilities as a cricketer...so...." and she continues to give them the rest of the details, and Akash chips in in between as well, as he starts to fill them in about how Khushi had requested both Arnav and him to keep this as discreet as possible and that she's never spoken to anyone in her team about this yet as well, mentioning all her reasons for the same.

Arnav, watches his parents and Dadi, listening on with keen interest,with smiles on their faces, so he just lets his siblings take the lead on, in the conversation, the sight of it all warming his heart, nonetheless. Right then, his phone buzzes and he looks into it and he says to everyone – "guys, I just have to take this call, it's a group con call with Coach sir,and Rohan, probably to discuss some matters with regards to day after's scheduled net practice session, since it's the first day we will all be regrouping to start prepping for the upcoming World Cup, tour..."

Everyone nods at him as they continue to talk, as he steps out and picks up the Call to talk to Cap.

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

A couple of minutes later, as Arnav puts down the phone, after finishing discussing out the matters, with regards to the team practice session and some arrangements about the same, he makes his way back to the join everyone in on the conversation. Just as he is about to enter back in, to join everyone, he pauses in his tracks, and leans back against the wall of the room, outside, and he decides to text His Sparkle, for a bit. He was obviously wondering, about how things were going at their end.

And just as he is about to text her, his phone beeps with her text.

He smiles to himself as he reads her text.

Khushi : hey you, My Stranger, just thought to check with you in a quick message, as to how is the – The Disclosure Time's conversations, coming around at your end. And before you go on chuckling to yourself as you read that, let me tell you ya Arnav..its only fair to call it just that thike? Because our siblings are disclosing about their relationship na!! ok correction – the Disclosure bit has already happened, I mean. (Winksssssssssssssss).Also, yes I can't wait to type this out to you in the next message, so I shall say it right here, things are all smooth here Arnav..as in with Mom and Dad. Dad, literally choked on his tea, when bhai told him about Anjali, being your sister..haha...just as I had anticipated...but just you wait...just you wia,t I shall not go around disclosing all those details on text, because I obviously am going to give you a full on animated action replay tonight on the Video Call, tonight. P.S – I miss You. How's going Bonker's? Me Surely...(Hearts) please know that bhai is still in the middle of the talking to Mom and Dad about Anjali...like they obviously want to know like everything now...I just made my way into the kitchen to get some evening snacks arranged for us all, which is how, I could steal some moments to text you.

Arnav grins to himself as he quickly replies.

Arnav : hey you Sparkle...I am exhilarated to tell you that all's going smooth here as well, as in Dad's being very receptive, and understanding of the situation , and so are Mom and Dadi, and I will obviously tell you all the details on the video call as well, as its going to be a lot to text. Also, I miss you too – so much, so guess what we are both going bonker's perhaps? Which is good, because that way we are atleast sailing in the same boat.(wink) I had stepped out to get on a quick con call with Rohan and Coach sir, and was just about to text you and your text came. Our telepathy scores 1000/1000 as usual.

Khushi : oh my god, you have no idea how happy I am to know that everything's going smooth as well there,also you know what? mom was asking Bhai to obviously talk to Anjali first thing to know as to things went at her end, and if Anjali gives the green signal,then Mom's going to ask bhai to connect him to Anjali and Reva aunty, tomorrow, so that they can arrange like a formal meet up, between our families. Like how kool is that?? supercool for bhai and Anj obviously. And Supercool*Infinity, because I get to see you, nonetheless. Please know that my Insides are in a Collective Disco Dang Mode again – just at the thought.(Hearts).Also ask me why am I spending some extra time here in the kitchen just now?

Arnav grins to himself as he replies: which is great Khushi. I can't wait for our mothers to connect – you obviously know that.(winks) Supercool * infinity – indeed. Also, yes, why are you some spending some extra time in the kitchen?

Khushi : arreeeee....remember I told you I am going to do some research into the Ketchup bottles at home, to figure out what brand name should I tag my cheeks with – because of the way they blush up, because of you...(winks)

Arnav chuckles to himself as he reads that, and replies : really Sparkle? and do we have a decision on the same already? Or are you still consumed in some research?

His phone beeps in ten seconds.

Khushi : Research Over, My Noise Cancelling headphones, it was like all quick, because it was like an easy peasy one na..so you see,I looked into the four different brands of ketchup bottles that were stocked at home, and as I had anticipated in the back of my head – its Heinz that does truly have the deepest shade of Red. So yup – my cheeks get all tagged with the name of Heinz now, like its official – all stamped and approved by the Supreme courts of the Hearts, as well.

Arnav grins as he replies : God, I can't wait to kiss you – again, already! You are in trouble, Sparkle. Deep trouble.

Khushi : God ya......there you go again..making my cheeks go into Heinz Mode. Acha listen, Dad just called , he's wondering what's taking me so long in the kitchen now. Ok so I am heading back to join everyone..let's speak soon, Arnav. Will text you as I am free. (hearts)

Arnav : ok then Sparkle, lets speak soon. I am just going to join back everyone in the discussion again. Can't wait to tell you all about it.

Khushi : Copy that, Skipper Blue. Copy That. Now c'mon...you goooo...don't reply now...you know I can't leave the chat first..(hearts)

Arnav chuckles to himself, as he puts his phone back in his pocket and makes his way back in, to join the rest of his family in the discussions, that His Sparkle, called were like the – Times of Disclosure. His Heart, continuously Beaming with Joy* Infinity – 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 : Shall be on Thursday evening...😊

Thanks, guys, for all the Love and Support.

Much Love Guys.

Always.

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The mom already knows the signs of love. wait till they meet the girl.