Helloooo everyoneeeee....

How you all doing????????

Happpyyyy Monday!😀😀😀😀😀

Yes, I am here with the next update of HW4.0.( Posting got delayed by an hour...but so happy to get this up today.)👩‍💻👩‍💻👩‍💻👩‍💻👩‍💻👩‍💻

Absolutely, loved writing the update so much. It's, a mix of various scenes+ moments. Hope you all enjoy reading the cocktail of it all.😀😀😀😀

Seatbealts On...dear readers..yet again

Will just let you all dive into it straight away...

Word count(turned out lot longer than I expected it too) - 10 k words.

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11. Curating My Track

The Next Morning,

At the Team Hotel

7:00 AM

Arnav's POV

Yash, Ravi, and Suraj amp up the speed on their respective treadmills - seeing me go at my treadmill hard and Yash asks in rushed voice amidst all the running, exchanging a knowing look with Ravi and Suraj - " bhai...kya ..? ho kya gaya hai aaj tujhe subah subah? Kyun paglon ki tarah bhaag raha hai? Aur hume bhi bhaga raha hai?( bro...what? like just what is up with you this morning?why are you running like a crazy on the treadmill and making us do the same??"

I answer amping my speed more by another point biting on my smile - " maine thodi bola tha tum teeno ko...mujhe company karne ke liye...tum khud hi aa gaye...ab aa hi gaye ho..toh karlo na cardio...aur jab kar hi rahe toh dhang se karlo..."(as if I asked you three to company me this morning for my gym time routine...you all only came..and now that you are here anyway...just do your cardio...and while you are it it...might as well make it an excellent cardio session..."

Actually, the three of them, were headed for a morning swim. But when they spotted me heading to the gym, they just came along with me here, thinking they'd head for swimming post that.

Yash groans to Suraj at that - " bhai...kya iske chakkar mein pad gaye...accha khasa..swimming mein jaa rahe the...main apni backfloat karta..chill..karta..."( bhai...what ya..coz of him...we just landed up here...I would have been chilling in the pool, with my backfloat time..)

Suraj chips in running hard himself, now amping up his speed to match mine - " haan haan...thike...kar le na tu chill yash..backfloat pe...dus minute baad...abhi cardio kar..."( yes yes, okay, you chill in your backfloat in the pool in ten minutes...yash...right now..just focus here..)

Yash groans and amps up his speed to match up ours and Ravi does the same now and he states grinning - " actually, I am quite happy to indulge in this workout time...we leave for training after breakfast anyway at 10am...this just sets base for the same given that its game day...its great we get all pumped up since the morning so...thanks bro..,"he admits shooting me a smile.

Suraj nods and winks - " waise...yeh dhang ka cardio session nai hua..bhai..yeh kamal ka cardio session..hua..."( actually, this just isn't a good session of cardio..totally is more like a great session of cardio..)

Yash rolls his eyes at us playfully, but agrees.And we all share a knowing smile and a little chuckle and continue running on our respective treadmills. The four of us have actually hijacked - four treadmills right next to the other - in the hotel's gym. Yash is next to mine on the right. Suraj is next to me on the left.And Ravi is next to him.

Hmmm.

So just in case you all are wondering, as to why I am running like a crazy maniac in full extra josh - this morning? Well, it isn't just because, its game day and I like to get all pumped up for it early on, as always.This time around, there is surely another reason for the same.

The other reason being, that today is a very important day for me on a personal accord as well. I spent all of last night, planning and plotting my path ahead on this accord, as strategically, as to how the groundsmen in the stadium spend time planning and executing their act - of curating the pitch - before every game.

Yeah.So, just like that, you could say, I'v been curating my own track in my head.And I am quite clear, with how I wana go about it. Do you all want a peekaboo on the same? Or wait, you will know about it all, as I go on with my execution on the same....

I eye my phone docked in the box space on my treadmill. I'd texted Khushi last night, before sleeping, asking if she was home safely, and if she was okay. I had received no reply from her, last night. I haven't received a reply from her - yet too. Perhaps, she's still sleeping? It's just 7am.Even though, I'v been eyeing my phone like a hawk amidst my run(venting out that part of my worry+frustration into it, on accord of an achy silence from Khushi's end since last night) - I know, I got to be the patient one in here on her accord. When she left last night, she was clearly quite shaken...with anguish etched all over her face...so yeah...my gut assures me there is no way she meant that bit seriously, that we just never speak again/or rather just cut off again. I had been quite confident in stating to her, that I believed she wouldn't be able to cut off from me ever again...right? Remember?Guys?

So yeah - I am totally doing my best to like channelise all that confidence into my system, despite this silence from her, on text.But! Damm! I am telling you all its freaking hard to hold onto my patience strings though. I spoke to Muma and Papa last night too obviously on my return to the hotel and when I told them about the brief highlights about it all(my second meeting with Khushi)+ all I'd gauged in her frame+all that I'd been feeling, they kinda agreed with me, that perhaps, it wasn't going to be possible for me to go by the oldest trick in the book, anymore. So glad to have their support on the same. I am yet to fill in Ravi and Anjali on this though, still. That I found, Khushi...(Planning, to do it, after calling it off with Disha)

We all see, Ravi pause on his running now and he heads to the weights section smiling and nodding at us all and Yash joins him happily, stating, he'd indulge in some weights, before cooling off in the pool. I haven't stopped running, though. I don't want to stop. Its helping me contain my impatience at the moment, as I look at my phone. I hear Suraj ask now amidst our run, given that he hasn't gone off the treadmill yet - " she's coming in today? Isn't she? Disha? With Anjali??"

I nod at that - " yes, bro...they should be here at the hotel, by the time, we come back from our training session, in time for lunch.."

He asks curious - " and?? Are you going to do it? end things with her? Now itself? Or wait?for a day or two?? I mean, I understand its tricky situation with Ravi and Anjali involved...but if I were to give you my opinion..i'd say..just end it bro......"

I admit honestly at that - " well, the situation isn't as tricky anymore Suraj...me and ravi had a chat the other day..he understands...like he was like it would be immature to even think that my equation with Disha could affect his with Anjali for they are like two separate relationships...right? so just because mine is going down...wouldn't mean...it could affect his...for he plans to steer his relationship differently...he openly asked me not to worry about it at all...so yes...I am going to call it off with Disha..today itself...I can't keep up the façade of it any longer...I don't have it in me too.."

Well, now you all know. The Step 1 off Curating My track - obviously involved me - calling it off with Disha. I need Khushi to know about this as soon as possible. Plan is, the minute, Disha arrives, post lunch, I am just going to set things straight with her.

Suraj smiles at that in an instant understanding - " yeh..ravi..kaafi kool hai aur samajhdaar bhi... badiya hai phir.... ( this is so kool of Ravi, and the fact that is kool, and mature about it...is amazing.)

I nod at that and we share another knowing smile and keep running for the next four minutes, before he finally gets off the treadmill and heads to join Ravi and Yash. I pause on my running too, in the next minute. And my one hand reaches out to pick out my phone on reflex, and the other picks up my bottle of water to sip on it.

Damm.

Still no reply on text from Khushi.

She is okay, isn't she?????? That's all I need to know. Okay, maybe, I should try sending out another text - on accord of goodmorning etc. It's a fresh day...a new morning...

I take a deep breathe and write a text to her.

Me : Goodmorning Khushi. Are you awake? Hope you had a good sleep. Incase you are up..just tell me this....Are you okay? Tum theek hona? That's all I wana know.

I tap send and continue to eye my phone like a bloody hawk waiting for it to beep, with her reply.Thankfully, it does beep. In twenty seconds..

Her : Goodmorning, Arnav. Yes, I am awake. Just woke up. Also yes...I am okay...thanks for asking.

Whose back to feeling like the javelin, Neeraj Chpra won us the Olympic gold with? Me, Dammit, Me! I am grinning - like a monkey - now.

Me : did you really just thank me for checking up on you?

Her : yes, I did. Shouldn't I?

Me : You shouldn't of course.Why are you being so formal, about it? like, as if, its needed?

Her : well, its not like I am being formal about it...

Me : you know you are being formal about it. Anyway, can I ask you something?

Her : what is it that you wana ask?

Me : why didn't you reply to my text last night? I mean, I know Asher drove you home and you most surely wold have reached safely etc etc...but I just felt like I had to know it from you...nonetheless. Why didn't you reply?

Her : I didn't reply, because, once again, I'd just fallen asleep in the car, by the time we reached home, Arnav.So technically, I just saw your text from last night...right now...at waking up...

Oh Crap. I mean not crap to the bit that she slept off in the car.But the bit, that if she slept, it meant, Asher Kapoor got to tuck her in bed again.Lucky fellow. Ugh. Why is he so freaking lucky? I feel bubbles of envy come up to surface again. Perhaps, I just confirm it from her, before losing it to my envious imaginations...

Me : if you fell asleep...it means...Asher tucked you in? is it?Khushi?

Her : yes...he did...

Ugh. My Blood freaking boils. Control.Raizada.Control.But just the imaginary sight off him carrying Khushi all snug in his arms...

Dammm.Also, why isn't she initiation conversation...from her end...yet?Asking me...what's up with you etc? Only one way to get her to do it...then...

Me : Okay! so....aren't you going to ask me, how's my morning going?Khushi??

Her : I was just about to ask you that only ya...

I bite my smile at that.

Me : really?

Her : yes, really. So, what's up? How's your morning going? You all surely got some training time today?given its game day?

Me : the mornings going great, Khushi. Yes, we got training time post breakfast until lunch as its game day. I am in the gym right now, sweating it out. Like to get all pumped up on game day since the very morning. You still coming to the game...later this evening.. right??with everyone in your circle?"

I tap send to that, waiting for her to answer that, nervously. For a part of me is like - what if she doesn't come to see me play? On accord of all her anguish+ nervousness, after our meeting yesterday?

Her : well, yes, I am coming to the game with everyone , Arnav. Its rare opportunities... to see you play live, how could the gaming fan in me...not come to see you play?huh?

Happy dancing. So glad she'd be there.But...Why did she have to say that? Rare opportunities bit. I don't like the sound of it.Should I say it to her?Yet. Will it overwhelm her? Probably yes. I think better to go with something else...in the moment..

Me : I am so glad you coming, Khushi. Tum theek hona?(you are okay..right?)

Her : ofcourse, I am okay! why would you ask me that...again?Arnav?

Me : I don't know...just felt like...asking..so..what's your day like?

Her : so, I got my volunteer work in between 10:30 - uptil 2:30 pm. Then I have to step out with Rekha aunty(Asher's Mom) for a bit. Post which, I am planning to come back to help mom and dad at our bookcafe, until we all get set to leave for match time..so yeah...that's what my day is.

Oh yeah. Her time with Asher's Mum.Wait..what about Asher?

Me : no time with Asher in your schedule..today?

Her : there is ofcourse. He's coming over for breakfast...actually..in a bit...

What the? He gets to Drop her home, tuck into bed, and then he gets to arrive in the morning, just in time for breakfast - together? Ugh - Asher might as well just live in with her!

Me(holding onto my restraints with great difficulty) : really? asher coming over for breakfast? with just you? or your family?as well?

Her : it is going to be just us for majority of the time...I guess...Mom and Dad...have to step out sooner today...it will be four of us for a shortwhile...I guess...anyway...I gotta rush ...k?Arnav.Asher will be here soon...I need to get set for the day. All the best to you for training...time...+ game day...Arnav. I am sure you prep's going to be amazing and that you will have a brilliant game.

Me : thank you Khushi...for your best wishes. Once again, I am glad, you will be there to see me play live and this time...Khushi and that I know about it..as well...unlike..last time..

Her : all the best to you..Arnav...have a great day!(smile emoticon)

Me : you too...have a great day..Khushi..(I add a smile emoticon)

Dammit. I am not smiling though - obviously. These imaginary flashes of Asher by her side just keep messing me up.Anyway, better I not let my mind go there and stay on focus - with the track that I'v curated in my mind. But, I do feel an uneasiness creep up again. I sigh.The only way - I can channelise this uneasiness though on Khushi's accrod- I guess - is to just Return to my weights+ work out routine and then lose myself vigorously - to my training time.

Why do I still feel uneasy on her accord? Not because of Asher, this time around, guys. Its because, something in my gut tells me, that she isn't okay! That she lied. She just covered up on the same - on text - I guess - to me!! And I just let her...because...it felt like she wasn't ready to talk about anything related to last night on text yet....

Be patient. Raizada. Just Be patient.

Stick to your plan. It will work. It has to work. I will make sure, it works.And with that thought, all determined and clear, I make my way to join Yash, Ravi, Suraj - for a weight session.

You guys, are praying for me, aren't you? You guys, better be praying for me, on Khushi's accord, okay?

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

Meanwhile Simultaneously

Khushi's Home

In her Bath

Khushi's POV

I lied.

I am not okay.

Obviously.

I am anything, but, Okay! I am more like an opposite of okay, in the moment.

Just a freaking vulnerable..mess....

I just had to cover up about it, on text to Arnav, though. And just steer clear and away from any conversation, related to last night.Why? Because, I don't think I am ready for him to know, that, every freaking minute/or rather second/nanosecond about our meeting yesterday - freaking just - derailed me off my course in my heart+ core - nonetheless. No matter how hard I tried to keep it all on track...within..

I don't think I am ready for him to know just yet, that, the very second, he laced his right hand with my left prosthetic, in a moment completely vulnerable with that familiar bubble cast around us - (that makes us feel like just him+ me exist in the whole wide world) - he kinda just tip-toed/or rather sneaked/smashed his way into my heart (all over again) - at lightning speed. Even faster than - Flash could have.Damm Him. Godammit Him. I should have freaking just known - I wouldn't be able to return from meeting him again - without being deeply+crazily affected.

My gut chips in. Well, I knew it anyway..

I groan.

Indeed, my gut knew, prior. But in those moments with him yesterday, it was like as if my mind had no other option but to process what I was feeling. It couldn't be in denial, when it found me freaking trembling in emotion within (which I managed to cover up I guess)- around him at every drop of a hat.Especially, when he mentioned he read up on prosthetics/plus his subtle reaction over my words when I mentioned...my prothetic hand was different...that it wasn't the same part of me anymore. The way he mentioned what he did..next..freaking just bowled me over. It was as if , like I was the cricket stumps on pitch, that he pulls on his smooth stumpings on so effortlessly...

And let me not even begin with stating, what an emotional wreck in nervousness I was when he began reading my diaries and when he mentioned, he'd read that last page of the last diary and asked me that question....I just began running away...because...I felt like...I wasn't ready to face him at that. Not when, his question had hit me so freaking hard, having me realise my answer in my mind+gut immediately. The answer I realised? That -I'd moved on from him because I felt like I had to. Not because, I wanted to. Indeed.

That realisation just shook all of me...over.

My gut chips in now.As expected...which is why you just tried to run away then..again...

It didn't work, as you all know.Obviously. Instead, Arnav just freaking riled me up more, by asking another couple of questions...

Damm Him.

And don't even ask me...what was it that I actually felt, when he freaking kissed my left prosthetic in those moments before I finally left. For I don't think, I'd ever have any words to describe on the same. Why did he have to do that?Dammit.

Just - Why did he have to, do that??

Of course, my mind couldn't be in denial then. For the very bit that I'd got lost in the moments around him, let him hold my left prosthetic prior, just hit base harder then as realisation struck - that I'd never let Asher..hold it..even? Or even kiss on it , ever before? Then why...around...Arnav only...a bubble just consumed me so deep...that I didn't even realise...that I was handing him/letting him hold a part of me...that I never allowed any man...either Dan/Asher to even hold..for ten seconds...prior...

And then, ofcourse, he was so confident in his statement, before I left wasn't he? That I wouldn't have it in me to cut off from him ever again? Damm.Freaking.Him.For even saying that.Because, just in the moment, he said that and I finally turned around and ran away from him towards Asher - I freaking realised that Arnav was right about that premise, that's why my heart was palpitating on me in the way it was?

Godammit. Him.

One thing is clear though guys, I can cover on all of this from Arnav, in the moment..still perhaps. But I cannot cover on this any longer - from another important person in my life. Who? Asher - obviously! Like there is no point even trying on that accord.

Why?if you may ask?

Because, I was a crying pool of mess, when I finally reached him obviously - wasn't I? That led him wo tworriedly embrace me in a supporting hug as he asked - if all was okay - etc - what happened, why was I so shaken etc etc. What could I do then? I just took some support from his warm hug at that and admitted to him crying that I was anything but okay but I was also not in the state to talk about it then. I requested him to just let me be..then..obviously...and just take me - Home.And the gentleman that he is, he obviously nodded in an instant understanding and we got on with doing just that. He just kept his hand over my right normal human hand - over his gear box in subtle support + kept handing me some tissues from the tissue box near his steering wheel - as I just kept crying profusely - in the front seat next to him as heart-wrenching realisations kept sinking in on Arnav's accord, leaving me with no option but to accept the bit that - Arnav Singh Raizada, had really never left my system at all. I just buried it all in on his accord, but never truly moved on. I tried. But about time I face that - he was still pretty much the reason why I was failing...hard at it.

Dammit.

Asher saw it all. I mean, I didn't say a word to him but he observed it all, obviously. He totally figured that I was emotionally rattled like I hadn't been in a long time and the obvious reason was the Boy I met in Peru.

And because, I was so shaken, I did succumb to an exhausted zone of sleep - crying in the car by his side - five minutes before we reached home. He tucked me in - later - obviously, not having it in his heart to wake me up. How do I know?that? I also had a text from him - on that as I woke up - this morning - obviously. He'd also messaged, that he was going to come over for breakfast - this morning. I knew why - obviously. He knows...we have to talk...about last night...and my freaking meltdown..after..

Godammit. I am so embarrassed by this. What will I say to him?though? I want to be honest. I have to be honest - about it all. For yup as Arnav mentioned, I guess, it will be more unfair to Asher, here on....if I am not honest about the conflict on his accord - to Asher...

Like its so freaking embarrassing to admit to your boyfriend(whom you'v dated for a year), that you figured out a full year later, that your heart's still dysfunctional and all freaking hung up - over one someone from your past! I anticipate Asher - dumping me over on this accord - obviously! I deserve it - I guess. But - what Asher doesn't deserve is - being hurt because of this angle - right? But nonetheless, as life would have it, even if I don't tell him, ill still be hurting him.And if I tell him...ill be hurting him too....

But, I have no option, but to set things on track with him, out of sincere honesty and respect I have for him, in my being.

Ughhhh.

Ughhh.

Also ughh me for not being able to stop myself from getting on that text chat with Arnav(minutes prior)...nonetheless. I shouldn't have replied - dammit. But then, when he asked me if I was okay..that way...I couldn't like not reply!

Ugh. Now I am back to playing - XOXO on accord off - I shouldn't have - but I couldn't not!

I close the tap of my hot shower at that and finally step out of my shower beginning to dry myself up using just my right hand for I am obviously nto wearing my prosthetic. Minutes later, as I wrap my towel around myself, I walk up to the mirror in front of the basin and just wipe off the steamy trace on the mirror with the right hand - to discover a sight of my anguished eyes - looking right back at me.

My reflection shows me my amputated stump too obviously, given that I don't wear my prosthetic to shower - obviously. Reflections don't - Lie.Right?

My reflection tells me in my reality in the present - that emotionally/in my heart today - I may have discovered otherwise - but physically I am not the same Khushi anymore that met Arnav met in Peru - right? I can never be the same old me. A part of me, is cut off. It's gone for good. My mind cannot not process that part of my reality, when it can see the reflection off my amputated stump in the mirror - stare back in my face - obviously.

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

Forty Minutes Later

Khushi's Home - Living Room

Asher knew she wasn't okay. That she was just pretending to be. That she was just trying to be her usual chirpy self around him+ her parents over breakfast - so that they don't catch onto the truth on her accord. What truth? The truth, he could clearly see. The truth, that he clearly saw last night. That she was more so like a pool of vulnerable mess...within...on accord of this boy she met in Peru!

Hell. For a second, when he'd seen her walk to him with tears streaming down her face last night, he'd freaked out, himself. Why? Because, even though he had been prepared to see her come back to him affected after her meet - significantly.He hadn't expected to see that - that deeply shaken. Which is why, he couldn't help but extend his genuine support to her in the moment. He was freaking worried.The way she had been crying profusely to herself in silence next to him in the car - on the way back - continued to trouble him long after - he'd tucked the sleeping her into her bed. Thank god, in the moment, sleep took over her hysterical crying. Never in his imaginations he'd thought, he'd ever see, Khushi that shaken emotionally.

Clearly, something significant happened, on her meet with the boy she met in Peru - he figured. As much as he'd been dying to know what that was, he had to respect her condition.She hadn't been in any state to talk about it last night. But now...as he looked at her...closing the door as her parents left...to begin their day..post their breakfast...shooting her cheeky smiles to get back to chill time with Asher before he began with his day and she began with her's - Asher knew, the minute she would turn around. That pretence would be off...her.He knew, she knew in her gut, that she couldn't keep that on in front of him, when they were finally alone.

He walked over behind her actually, now as he waved bye to uncle and aunty, himself, assuring them, that he wouldn't leave without another cup of coffee and he also wished them a great day ahead. They smiled back at him, lovingly and he could only smile back - the same way.

Once, the door was shut, he just turned Khushi around by holding onto her right hand - glad that the cover of pretence was off her eyes finally and he just hugged her in emotional support in the moment as he asked kissing her head -" are you okay?? you surely...aren't? Khushi? what the freaking hell happened...last night? what did the dude say...? Like did he say something to hurt you?? I'v never freaking seen you cry that way...ever..clearly...you'v been shaken...within...right??"

Thankfully, in the moment, he feels her just hug him back at that soaking in emotional support as she whispers - " indeed...I'v been shaken...Asher. But not because, he said something to hurt me...but moreso..rather...he asked me the right questions...that kinda...just derailed me...or rather rattled...me...immense...and the only reason why you found me...crying...that hard in the car on the way back....was...because...because...,"and she pauses at that and just hugs him hard.

Asher sighs at that and kisses her head again and fills in for her, for in his gut he knew - " was because...you probably realised yourself or rather accepted to yourself..that surely a subconscious emotional block existed in you still on his accord, which is why, no man has ever been able to get through your heart deep...Khushi?? you were vrying that way..probably because... you...accepted..it to yourself...that...he wasn't out of your system...for good? that you'd just burried in what you felt on his accord, but never really moved on, wholeheartedly?it wasn't because you didn't try,but because your heart just didn't let you..as if it were functioning on the instruction of a different mind of its own..."

Now that from Asher surprises the hell out of Khushi's mind as she pulls apart at that and asks him her eyes widened in shock - " what did you just say?? How did you even figure this out Asher?without me even having said..it to the point??"

Asher sighs at that and cups her face and admits now honestly - " because...I sensed it yesterday itself...Khushi...while you were narrating me the tale about the boy you met in peru...that he is the reason...for that emotional subconscious block in you...towards...any man in your life...after...be it Dan...or even me...for that matter...you were freaking trembling in nervousness when you talked to me about him...your turmoil didn't miss my eye...at all...Khushi even though you did your best to cover it up. I could sense it...then and there.."

Khushi asks shocked at that - " what??? you sensed it then and there?? then?why did you be all kool about me meeting him again? why did you freaking nudge me into it...Asher? For once...as my boyfriend...couldn't you be all possesive...being like...no I never want you to see the dude again.."

Asher smiles sadly at that - " if I'd say that I knew you'd use it as an excuse to never see him again...Khushi. I nudged you into it...knowing there were high chances that you'd come deeply affected after your second meeting..."

Khushi asks wide eyed - " you even sensed that??Asher??"

Asher nods - " indeed...I did...and I nudged you into it... so that I could show you the mirror of truth...you were denying to yourself, despite seeing shades of it brew up within you....are you crazy?Khushi? Why would you do that yourself? I care about you. Before, we got together, we were great friends too right? Friends don't let the other sabotage themselves - right? I don't have it in me to see you sabotage yourself, Khushi. So, I wana show you this mirror now. If, you keep succumbing to denial on this point, it wouldn't be fair...to either of us...him...you...or...even me...for that matter. Look, I care about you and I know you care about me. We are good together. Yes. But we aren't great together. Or greatest or happiest.We both know that. And now that we both know that, a part reason for that is, that your heart still stands taken by this boy you met in Peru, deep within, there's surely no point, in me...trying to find my way there..anymore...right???

Khushi's shoulders slump at that as she admits looking straight at Asher - " well, I am not in denial anymore.Asher. I have seen and accepted that mirror of truth, this morning. I had no choice but to accept it.And infact, I was thinking...as in...I was so embarrassed...in thinking how to bring this up to you...fearing...I'd be hurting you either ways....but....now...that you say...you sensed it prior....given that, you just sensed it prior...,"and she paused as her eyes widen at that as realisation strikes - that the paranoia thought on his(Asher's) accord was even true, that yesterday his every kiss, after, plus every touch, was him bidding her bye romantically indeed and she grips on his arm to ask now trembling - " wait...wait...wait....so yesterday evening...when you kissed me the way you did...in the kitchen...or in our moments after in my room....the reason I could sense bittersweet emotions from your end...was this? Wasn't it? Asher? That you totally knew..in moments prior...that...that was your way of bidding bye to me romantically? You are going to dump me...now...arent you? you freaking planned to dump me...in your head...prior to even kissing me in the kitchen yesterday??well, not that I don't deserve it...indeed...you should just dump me...Asher...I haven't been fair to you...on this acoord...,"and she buries her face in her hands at that - " oh damm...surely...you hate me for this..already..,"

Asher shakes his head at that biting a sad smile holding onto her shoulders - " look at me...please?"

Khushi does. He assures her sincerely - " I don't hate you..Khushi. I never can. How could you know...you were being unfair to me on this accord, when you didn't know this was what was hidden beneath on his accord.still? It only came to surface at seeing him - in real time - right? so you only just realised it?"

Khushi nods at that honestly.

Asher continues brushing on her right arm, not wanting her to go into guilt mode - " and see, the second you accepted it yourself, you planned to talk to me about it. So from where I see it, you are just your honest sincere self as always...and yes...indeed...you sensed those bittersweet emotions...in my kiss, or our moments, or my every touch after - was because, that was me, bidding bye to you romantically...Khushi. Ofcourse, we both know, there is no point in continuing our relationship...here on...romantically...atleast.."

Khushi sighs at that - " I am sorry...I don't know what else to say..Asher...I am just so so sorry...I hate to be the one to hurt you with this..."

Asher cups her left cheek at that - " trust me, when I say this, I would have been more hurt later, if this didn't happen now.So in a twisted way, even though it saddens me, I know this is the right thing...to do. This is the right track, Khushi. You know that. We could always go back to being great friends...like we were..prior...obviously...though...like there's no way...we wouldn't be a part of each other's life...right?"

Khushi sighs at that, respect for him leaping so much in her being yet again- " well, ofcourse, there's no way we wouldn't be a part of each other's life...Asher. You are an amazing man.So amazing. I would want nothing more than for us to find our equation back as great friends, that we were prior.Like thanks ya...thank you...for...just being so amazing and understanding, about this entire situation...Asher. I swear to my gods...I thought I was over him...for good...romantically...at that point...when we began dating...I truly believed that...it's not like I ever deceived you on that knowingly...."

Asher brushes her right arm at that in support sincerely - " I know...I know...that...Khushi...I know you enough to know that you would never have done this...knowingly...ok?"and he hears her whisper at that softly - "thank you for saying that.Asher. Heavens know, because it is you, this talk went so smoothly...like look at you being your charming, understanding self, even as we call it off...romantically.."

Asher grins gesturing her to walk with him to the sofa.She does.And as they both take their seats he says- " well, I am quite the charmer, all the time...aren't I?"

Khushi smiles sadly at that reaching out to hold his right hand - " that indeed...you are...God...Asher...but seriously...I have to say this again...thanks ya...for this...I mean..as I was closing the door to let Mom, Dad out...I was thinking where should I bury myself under the ground in embarrassment ya...or even what is should I say to you. But you just understood. Infact, know what, I was thinking for a bit...that...given that my hearts just dysfunctional and I have realised it now...I might as well just sign myself up at the nearest convent..and become a nun or something..."

Asher chuckles at that - " really?" Trust her to make him chuckle with that at this point. He asks now raising his eyebrow - " and if you signed up for a lifetime off being a nun, what would happen to this boy you met in Peru...haan?Khushi? I am sure, he's as shaken as you were..emotionally...last night...given he asked you those questions..purposely...knowing it might de-rail you.....so..only fair...you two just get together...right? high time...just give in to what you both feel...."

He sees Khushi sigh at that as she admits - " well, about that....I don't know...Asher...its complicated.."

Asher's eyes widen at that - "what does that mean?Khushi?why can't you be honest to him...on your accord? Just tell him...how you feel na...that you discovered, that he still in your system, which is why, we broke up, already.Like don't tell me...this...that you don't plan to talk to him about it..."

Khushi sighs at that - " well, I wish it were that easy...Asher....."

Asher asks puzzled - " what the hell? What does that mean? also can you tell me...what questions did he ask you anyway?that derailed you in your emotions...Khushi?making you realise the obvious? you know you can talk to me...look...just...think this is me...Asher..your friend and not your ex - sitting in front of you right now...I mean...I'd hate for you to still be stuck in conflict on this accord...I haven't let you go..so that you can go down the sulking way...Khushi...I want you to be happy...I mean...the happiest on the matters of the heart..."

Khushi looks at Asher at that sincerely knowing he meant what he said.This was his friend version asking her the same - "and only you can have it in your heart to...like even say that right now...Asher...but seriously...are you sure you wana know the questions he asked?"

Asher nods - " come on just talk to me..about it. Surely, you need to vent out to someone..Khushi.And given that I am the only one out of our entire gang you knows this...you have no option but to talk to me. Or keep it in. I say...just take it out ya..."

Khushi sighs - "are you sure?"

Asher nods again and Khushi quickly fills him on the questions asked from Arnav on accord off - did she just move on because she felt like she had too and not that she wanted to? Or that why was she adamant on running away from him? or even say they shouldn't ever meet agin? Talk again? or text again? or would she run away from him still, say if he were single?or that - wasn't this conflict on his accord more unfair to Asher..?

Asher listens open- heartedly in the moment.Clearly, the dude knew, how to get Khushi to realise her answers. He says now five minutes later - " well, he clearly knew, how to get his answers...hmmm...so why is this complicated...Khushi? clearly, he's just as de-railed as you are...emotionally...as affected...so just tell him how you feel??,"and he sees Khushi sigh at that - "well, technically....he's still like not single...he's still with the one he's been dating for a couple of years...I mean..like I told you....he did...ask...would I still try to run away from him...if he were single?last night? when I was trying to walk away....and...as frazzled as I was....I told him then...that well, you aren't single...anyway and I am not too..."

Asher exclaims at that in a matter of fact tone - " but you are single now...Khushi. It's a new day, today.And given that he asked you that, means you have every freaking right to ask him break it off,with whomsoever he dating..... Khushi..."

He sees Khushi's eyes widen at that - " no no..what you saying?Asher? how can I just ask him..to break up on my accord?? Wouldn't be fair...to his partner...right???it's not the right thing to do...."

Asher shrugs. Her sincerity+ righteousness was surely her biggest strength but also her weakness at times, just like it was for him - " why can you not ask him to just break up? like Didn't we just break up...on his accord??? I understood...right?? I am sure, his partner...would understand...and sometimes...it isn't about what's right/wrong Khushi. Just about what one feels..."

Khushi sighs at that admitting honestly - " I don't know...Asher..."

Asher sighs - " okay...at least go ahead...tell him...we broke up...lets see how he reacts to that..."

Khushi contemplates - " hmmm...but he will ask me...why we broke up? I am not ready to confess what I feel yet...Asher. Its overwhelming. A lot has happened in such short span of time. Its still sinking in..."

Asher nods at that - " well, you are right about that..a lot has happened in short time..."

It is right then Khushi's phone beeps with Rekha aunty's text with a reminder of their meet today and it strikes Khushi then as she looks at Asher wide eyed - " Asher...its aunty's text...I am supposed to meet her to pick out a gift for Mom...."

Asher - " you mean Maa's text?"

Khushi nods and asks puzzled now - " what do we say to everyone...Asher? Its Mom's bday..in four days...she'll be so upset if she knew we took a break...plus Mika di...Jiju...your parents...dad...Rahul , Diya, Yug, Manika, Zara, Zain...whats everyone going to say? As in how will they react? Plus they will totally get on with playing cupid in between of us..if we say we called it quits on basis of a fight or something??we really need to figure this out first...as well...your parents will hate me...ya...and what if that impacts...mika di...,"she asks, her eyes widening in worry.

Asher feels his mind come up with a plan now - " okay..first thing..out...just relax Khushi. On bhabhi's accord. We all love her way too much, to have our realationship status affect her in anyway - ok?"

Khushi asks - " are you sure??"

Asher nods and ressures - " nonetheless.......I have a plan. For starters, lets just tell everyone, post your Mom's bday in like four days from now. Until then, lets just keep it in between of us that we called us - off....works?"

Khushi nods - relieved. Indeed,that worked.She hears Asher say now - " and when we tell everyone......lets not give a reason,...let us both just maintain a common stand that we called just our relationship off..and that we'd continue to be friends, and if they loved us/cared for us..they wouldn't ask why..."

Khushi nods at that but asks skeptical - " you think that would work? I mean...I am sure, they'd hound us for a reason...they are all expecting...a...,"and she pauses.

Asher sighs - " I know what you mean...they are all expecting a wedding from our end..at the back of their minds...surely..they will be shocked..when we tell them...we called it off...look...Khushi...I think its better if we take it step by step..lets maintain that we don't wana talk about our reason and if either of us still feel hounded by anyone for a reason...we'll discuss...what to say...and we will both say the same thing...k?"

Khushi nods at that processing it all and hears Asher ask now - " anyway...you got your volunteer tutoring on...today right??you are meeting..Maa..post that only?"

Khushi nods at that - " yeah meeting her post that only..,"and she hears Asher suggest on just being normal around his Maa at that, and that there would be no chance she'd figure out etc etc...and Khushi can't help but feel greatful for Asher in the moment, indeed.

Which is why - she couldn't help but suddenly pull him into a long silent hug. He'd kissed her - goodbye - yesterday - hadn't he? She couldn't help but feel like just hugging him hard - in the moment - to bid him goodbye romantically - as well.

Asher knew, what this sudden intense hug was about - obviously. It was her bidding him goodbye - romantically. Which is why, he does the only thing that seemed right to his being - in the moment. He just hugged Khushi back - at that! He couldn't help it. He just had to...give himself...that....

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

Hours Later - 3PM in the Afternoon

In his room - at the Hotel

Arnav's POV

Disha gapes at me as if dropped a bomb on her. As if she weren't expecting this as she asks, her eyes widened in shock - " whatttttttttttttttt the hell? Arnav?? what did you just say?? Did I freaking hear you right??"

I nod at her at that - immediately. I just got her, in here, into my room, alone for talk after finishing on a collective lunch with Ravi+Anjali - post their arrival- an hour ago. Already spoke to Anj on an one on one on this too. That the minute, I am going to get the chance to be alone with Disha. I will call it off. She understood and I have full support just like I have Ravi's. I think, the both of us(Anj+Me) are on the same page, that in the last three months over especially - she just has changed so much(For the worse), that she isn't the version off Disha - either of us even knew at one point- closely. Anjali's decided to keep her distance from her as well , but just be cordial enough for Ravi's sake.

Disha asks me again all shocked - " did I freaking hear you right?did you just say, it's over, in between of us?????"

I nod to affirm that again, and go on to say it loud so that it sinks into her, deeper, again - "Indeed, you heard me right, Disha. The first time, around. I said, it is over. I am calling it off. This moment is exactly where we break up and part for good..."

She sits down all shocked on the sofa in my room, her temper rising as she glares at me - " unfreakingbeleivable...this is...from Arnav..dammit. I just arrived here, after hours of travel to come see you...after what two months. We are like meeting in real time, after whole two months, and this is the first thing you tell me..the minute we get the chance to be alone?as if...you were just dying to get this off your chest to me the very second we meet?? wait...were you freaking dying to just break up with me???"

I sit down in the sofa-chair opposite her and I admit honestly giving her an isn't it obvious look - " well, I am not the jerk, who breaks up over text or call...Disha..."

She glares at me hard - " but, apparently, you are still the jerk who breaks up with his girlfriend after she's travelled miles/hours just to meet you??????? to spend some quality time with you???? to watch you play live...tonight? To cheer for you...from the stands tonight..as your woman. And you chose,the first moment, you can, to break up with me?? Wow...royal jerk mode..indeed...Arnav...."

Did she call me a jerk+ royal jerk mode? Wow. Great. After all my patience...

Anger bubbles up.Not that I am going to lash it out on her, in the moment.Its not worth it. Plus, isn't the way, I'v been brought up. My parents have brought me up to be quite respectful towards women, no matter what the situation. Also, she's still Ravi's sister. Anjali's future sister in law.( Ravi's surely proposing to Anjali in his room - right now)

I hold onto my calm and just stare at her in disbelief back at that, a scoff leaving my lips on its own accord though - " what the?Disha? why do you look so shocked?as if , I dropped a bomb on you.Like, don't kid me, alright?And, don't kid yourself, too. As if...you didn't see this coming. Like as if...we both don't know..that you also came here...with Anj today...not just to meet me...but to get it as a context off content for your social media publicity + the bit that you have an eight day work shoot starting in Cuba,day after...and what quality time?Haan? when did we last have a chat without a freaking banter? What eight months ago? When you thanked me for taking a stand for you online - against that online bashing.Cmon...you know we'v gone downhill post that....Disha. We are at a dead -end now...Disha...and you are only hanging on...because...it looks good...on the surface...it's not because...you feel anything at all...for me...anymore...we both know..that ship has sailed for either of us...long ago...or perhaps..it just never really anchored in....I am just tired of all this pretence...Disha. I can't do this anymore...cmon..it's just us right now...quit the pretence...and lets just be freaking honest....you are just angry because...I called it off..finally...your ego is hurt...that's all...that's what it's about...nothing else....isnt it?"

She sighs at that, leaning back in the sofa - clearly taken aback in surprise over how I spoke it all out for her in black and white - laying it all out in the open, and she stares at me for a good forty seconds in silence before she admits after taking a deep breathe, her eyes blank with no shade of remorse/feelings hurt reflection in it - " well, you are right Arnav...it's just us..so no point on pretence any longer...you are also right...about the latter...that feeling ship..has sailed long ago..Arnav...or it just never really anchored in...but yes...I am freaking taken aback...as to why you chose this exact moment of my arrival to do this. Indeed, my ego is hurt.."

See , I told you all. Nothing remains. I shrug at that and admit honestly - " I don't know, if I wana apologize to your ego, right now.Given that, we both know, that's all that's hurt - right now, and...nothing else..."

She sighs raising her eye-brow - " well, an apology towards my ego would be nice...Arnav.."

I know she would feel nice about it. I don't know if I am in the mood to give her that - though.Just to satisfy her ego. She says now sighing - "also...I am sorry I called you a jerk...Arnav..was just my temper..rising..and my hurt ego...as you read...you'v been anything but a jerk to me..ever......."

I raise my eyebrow at her, studying her blank eyes+ relaxed shoulders as she leaned back against the cushion.I know her well - " are you only saying sorry on that accord, so that I do the same...towards your ego being hurt?? Oh cmon...we both know..what that blank look in your eyes + relaxed shoulders means right now...you are not sorry about this at all...??"

She just sighs at that - in silence. Not refuting what I said.

I say now, keeping my calm , still - " Look...I am done, here. This is it for me...Disha. Okay? It's over..disha. I don't want to play a blame game here. No point. We tried finding something that never really existed in between of us. About time, we just accept, it failed.We both knew, it was over...long ago..."

She sighs at that nodding - " alright...this is it...its over...I guess, yes...no point denying that yes...even I knew it was over...long ago..."

I sigh in relief at that. Finally. A huge thing off my back - " great...glad we are on a mutual page with this, Disha. I wana announce our break-up tonight. Out of sincere respect, I was thinking, lets just come up with a mutual cordial statement, calling it off so that we can both put it up together on our social medias? I will not dish out dirt at you..publically...ofcourse..."

Now that kinda shakes her immense as she asks shocked all over again - " whatttttttttttttttttttt? You want to announce it tonight, itself?"

I nod at that - " ofcourse, I wana announce this as soon as possible...Disha..."

She asks frazzled going into panic almost - "why are you in such a hurry to announce this...Arnav? are you crazy? This will make me look absurd...I mean until an hour ago...I am posting on my stories...excited to see my man etc etc...finally in Jamaica...with cozy pics of us from the past...and you are saying ...I should announce our break-up on my handle tonight?itself? it will make me look...absurd and delusional..as if I were crazy. Like this would humiliate me publically, dammit? on my social media? Also, not to forget...I'd have been in the stands prior...in the match...I was planning to post all excited posts of mine..etc etc..from the stands dammit...no no...I cannot post this tonight...Arnav...look...I agree..mutually...this is over...we are over...but I cannot post it tonight...because it will make me look like...crap/double faced - making people wonder..why was I posting all that I was hours prior...if things were not well in between of us...in reality or else we wouldn't have broken up..."

Great. I don't know how much she can fall in my eyes,guys. Even right now, all she cares about it - how it will look on her social media - publicly! Where is the Disha - I once was even friends with? Lost into doom - I guess? At the moment, I don't even wana stay friends with her.

I say determined nonetheless - " well, too bad for you Disha. I never asked you to post stories based on false pretences anyway. I wana post this out as soon as possible...most surely tonight..."

She gapes at me in disbelief at that and pleads almost her eyes teared - " oh godammit...no...Arnav..pleasE? just not tonight...not on the day I have just arrived to see you...it will humiliate me...publically...so much...please? atleast give me a couple of days?? Please??????? like maybe just give me four days? Ill be in Cuba then? you'll be in Trinidad&Tobago for the ODI's...let's call it off publically...then?? please? I beg you...least you can do for me? if not for my sake...then atleast for bhai+anjali's??? just please...not tonight...not tonight..it will make me look sick ya...publically. Think of how bhai will feel..."

Ugh.Just knew it, she'd use this card. I process, what she's said and because I do care for Ravi+Anjali - I know she will make it hell for them in the hours later in the night, if I just post it tonight. They'v also just met after ages. And it's going to be their moments after his proposal.Surely, they wouldn't a bawling and stomping in temper around Disha in their rooms.

Also, she's clearly only bothered about public image only fair I address that - " well, just for Ravi+ Anjali's sake...I am ready to wait on this public announcement...until tomorrow afternoon...instead of tonight...Disha...but that's the maximum...I can hold on till...I wana announce this...before I leave here...before I board my flight out tomorrow evening..and if you wont co-operate, than I'll post it anyway...please...I wana do this...mutually and respectfully...so let me..."

She sighs in part relief at that instantly - " thank you for not posting it out...tonight..atleast..."

I admit on reflex - " not doing it for you or your show agenda..."

She gapes at me - " you are doing it...for bhai and anj...I know..but I don't get one thing...why do you wana announce this so fast?right now??"

Well, I have an answer to give her. But I don't. Why? Because, the version of Disha in her that used to be my friend is long gone. In front, of me is a woman, whom I just can't freaking stand any longer. I don't wana share the truth on Khushi's accord - with her.

I sigh and shrug at that - " I just wana announce this asap...because...I want to be liberated..from all this pretentious drama...Disha. I told you, I can't take it anymore.."

She nods narrowing her eyes at me - " alright...fine...I get it...but are you sure? you cannot give me some more days?on this accord? Think about it please? like what if, we announce this after this WI tour ends? When you back in India...ill like tow it down in my stories..over the period of time,..so that it comes across as...organic??"

God, she is unbeleiavable.

I shake my head at that - " sorry...no...Disha. That is not happening. I cannot wait..that long.."

She nods at that her eyes flaring up beginning to gesture to me her temper is rising in impatience again. Well, to hell with that. I am done with her and her tantrums. She asks now - " can I atleast use your washroom though?to freshen up? Or you going to kick me out of your room now itself?and ask me to go use mine??"

I sigh not in the mood to argue with her. Its just a waste of my time and energy - " you...can still use...my washroom...Disha.Obviously.But I'd like you to leave...post that...as soon as possible..."

She glares at me at that. Once again, her eyes showing me that display of her hurt ego and she says now - " well, looks like...better...I just leave and use my washroom...to freshen up.."

I shrug casually at that - " your wish...Disha.."

She just glares at me at that for ten second, I think anticipating me to stop her - but given that I don't act - or say a word - she finally leaves, closing my room door in a bang.

Phewwwwwwww!

Finally! I am out of this - mess.

I take out my phone at the speed of light. Why? Because, now I just feel like, even though I have shifted the announcement of this publically to tomorrow afternoon - I just can't wait to let Khushi know - about this - nonetheless - cryptically.

I wanted her to know about this by - tonight?Right? Better, I drop solid hints myself.

I text her.

Me : Khushi, where are you? are you free?

My phone beeps in ten seconds.

Her : Arnav..are you okay? you don't sound, okay..as in...are you hurt? Did you like injure yourself in training or what??

I smile at that.

Me : no, I didn't injure myself...Khushi. I am okay, that way. Just I really need to talk to you right now. Can I call you?

Her : Phew! Releived you okay. Sorry...I am out with Rekha aunty right now. Can't talk.

Me : oh, yes, you were supposed to be picking out a gift for your Mom..

Her : yes, we are doing that only..

Me : is asher there?

Her : he is at work...Arnav...

Me : how was breakfast with him..??

Her : it was great as usual. How was lunch with Disha?

Me : how do you know? I had lunch with Disha?

Her : Dishas Instagram...obviously...Arnav. She posted it a ten second shot of you, her, your friend Ravi and your sister, Anjali - having lunch together.Must have been fun.Surely, seemed like it.you had your usual infectious grin on. Great,to see you smiling.always.. I am so happy - that you all had a good time. you two met after long - right?as her Instagram story mentioned...

Damm. This Disha. And her freaking instrgram! Crap, I can't let Khushi keep believing that nonsense longer.

Me : okay...listen...Khushi, this is urgent.I need to see you. Please, come see me - Tonight. After the match? Same place?

Her : whattttttttt????? You wana see me tonight? Why? And what's so urgent?? Like in case you all win..it will be clean ssweep to t20I series...wont there be a crazy afterparty?? Why would you wana leave that?and come see me??

Me : look...Khushi...I don't freaking care about anything other than seeing you tonight after my game. I just have to see you. Its freaking important. Don't you get it? I am leaving for Trinidad and toboago tomorrow..evening..

Her : yes, I know, for the duration of the ODi series...you will be there...before you return here to Jamaica..post that for test series..

Me : and I just have to talk to you about something important..before..I leave here...dammit.

Her : what do you wana talk to me about?

Me : look, its about ..Disha...ok?

Her : huh?what about her??

Me : just know...there is more than what meets the eye...Khushi. Its not what it seems. It's not been what it seems between her and me, for ages now....that grin up over my face today over lunch was on Ravi+ Anjalis accord. Not on Dishas's accord at all...k? Just know this...for now...k?

Her : whatttttttttttttttttttt????? What are you saying?Arnav??? Like what does this even mean??

Me : look, I can't explain it all on text /or call...that's why I am saying...just come see me..tonight.Please? I will tell you about it all. I promise. Just say...you'll see me...please?

Her : Okay...I'll come see you...Arnav...

Me : greatttt...thank you..so much ...Khushi.

Her : no worries...okay listen...Arnav...I gotta go now...with Rekha aunty na? Only fair, I spend some quality time with her. All the best to you for the match ...once again...Arnav.

Me : so glad...you coming...Khushi.can you atleast tell me..which stand you'll be in?

Her : haha..as if...you'd be able to spot me in a crowd of thousands...Arnav.So what's the point...??

Well, she is right about that.

Before I can reply, in comes her text again.

Her : okay...gtg now for real. Have a good game, Arnav...

Me : I will...thank you..Khushi.

And at that the sign of her being - Online - goes off - on Whtsapp.

I sigh in relief though. Thank god, I dropped a solid hint, at least.

Guys, this is huge for me!

I have ended things with Disha. And I am going to tell - Khushi about it tonight itself - come what may! I grin in relief. I pat my back happily at that. Why? For, I am right on walking on my curated track in my head - on this accord - indeed!

I think, all of your's prayers are working - guys!

Thank God, that they are!

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

Tadaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!

How was that guys???????? Hope you all enjoyed the various scene flows! All of this Just had to stand out in this one update together!😉😉😉👩‍💻👩‍💻👩‍💻👩‍💻

Next Update on this - Will come on tomorrow night/or max Wednesday.

Thanks guys for all the love* support always.

Much Love* Infinite Gratitude

Now and always..

Prachi