Helloooo everyoneeeee....

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Happpyyyy Friday!

So Yes, I am here with the next update of HW4.0 for the week!

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Word count (Long)– 10.4 k words.

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22. Blown Away

Eight More Days Later

@ Sabina Park Stadium – Day 5 of the 1st Test Match

4:30 PM

There is a reason why vintage enthusiasts of the game of cricket swear by the bit that – the format of Test Cricket really tests a team's strengths and mettle in all its areas be it – batting, fielding or bowling. Afterall, the teams got to gruel and play in their field for 5 full days, chasing a result in the game.

And even though, now shorter formats of the game have gained significant momentum and highlights – the charm of test cricket still stays quite alive and perhaps always will until the players on field prioritize the format as much with their utmost dedication and passion.

Needless to say – that the last four days at Sabina Park as India and West Indies competed and played against one another in the first test match of the 4 test match series – had been enthralling to witness for every test cricket fan of the game.

On Day 1 – Skipper Veer had won the toss and had chosen to bat putting the team's batting mettle to test on a tricky double-faced WI condition and his team had not let him down on the accord. The Indian openers – Rohan and ASR – had scored a magnificent opening partnership stand of 175 runs before Skipper Rohan got out to a brilliant stumping after contributing about 90 runs in that partnership.

At that point by the end of the first session - ASR was still batting steadily at 65 runs. In the second session of Day 1 post lunch – ASR continued to score steadily and slowly along with one of his senior test cricket partners- Chetan and the two managed to sail through the second session with a decent net run rate – as ASR reached the milestone of his next test hundred in the last over before tea as India's score read – 230 – 1 on the score board. But it was on the last ball before tea that Chetan got out to a LBW after scoring a steady 40 runs making India's look like – 233-2! The runs contributions uptil that point looked as follows –

Rohan – 90 runs – Stumped Out

ASR – 102 runs Not Out

Chetan – 40 runs – OUT LBW

As the third session on Day 1 began – the momentum in the Indian camp was all exhilarated and pumped up nonetheless given that they'd got themselves into a very good position as well. Skipper Veer came in to join ASR next on crease and they both played steadily with Veer taking the lead to fire and ASR steadying the other end. By the end of Day 1 's game – the Score board looked like – 300 – 2! With Veers score being - 40 * Not out and ASR being – 130*Not out as well.

The commentators and experts of the game, couldn't stop roaring about India's brilliant batting display by the top order at the time, obviously....collectively...as well as highlighting individual performances and contributions...

However, just like any game, in cricket as well, tables can turn quite quickly in the span of couple of overs and that is exactly what happened with India on Day 2 for India ended up losing – both ASR and Veer's wickets in the first hour of the next day with the score looking like – 329-4 with ASR getting out at 144 and Veer getting out at 54 runs as well! But given that this was still a pretty high score - everyone expected India to keep scoring steadily given their batting depth. But given that the pitch had began to assist swing and seam quite significantly by then, the WI bowlers put up a thriller of a comeback from their end which lead to regular fall of wickets and by the end of second session on Day 2 – India had been bowled out for 400 runs – which is also quite steep a score – indeed for a first innings in a test match.

And as WI came in to bat next – it was obvious that they were going to go about it strategically as well and by the end of play at Day 2 in the last session only WI openers had also managed to score a stand off 150 runs for a loss of no wicket! Day 3 of the test match obviously got more intriguing due to this and WI managed to play out the entire sessions of Day 3 – only losing their last wicket on the last ball of the day finishing their fabulous innings at 355 runs – which resulted in India's lead going into Day 4 to be that off 45 runs.

In the Indian dressing room at the point, the strategy was simple. Score a little more aggressively yet steadily so that they could reach a 250 plus score so that along with the lead that would be a fighting total to defend. And once again – India's top order had contributed steadily to the cause on Day 4 and with Rohan scoring another 75 runs, ASR – another 70 runs and Chetan – 45 runs and Skipper Veer adding another fighting half century – 55 runs which made India's scoreboard look like – 245- 4 and adding the prior lead of 45 runs set India's total to that of 290 runs just in time for the last ball of days session at which – Skipper Veer finally declared India's second innings wanting to give his team all of Day 5's play to bowl WI out! For India was aiming for the win obviously and not just a draw....

And the Day 5 of the first match began with much fervour as well, with both sides eyeing win's and result respectively. Much to the dismay of Indian unit though even though their bowlers had managed to pick up regular wickets – the WI batsmen had managed to build significant partnerships in between. And coming to the last 30 minutes of the game – it had now come to the point that WI were at 250 – 7 needing just 41 runs for victory and with India needing just three wickets...

The clock was ticking...along with the house-full crowd in the final session of the test match at Sabina Park – the respective dug outs of India and WI were also consumed in gaming suspense with their eyes glued on the field....

Both the teams felt like the result of win was within either of reach at the point and it was just about which team was going to end up holding their nerve till the very end....

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In The Stands - @ Sabina Park

Just like every other fan in the stadium supporting India – Khushi also felt like super nervous in the moment – consumed in gaming suspense as she sent out silent wishes towards Arnav on field who was completely consumed in his wicket keeping duties at the time.

She literally couldn't take her eyes off him in the moment – for obvious reasons or take her attention off the game. Arnav had – had such a brilliant test match with his amazing century plus score in the first innings and significant score of 70 runs in the second innings + his excellent wicket keeping – that she felt like she'd really be bummed for him – if India lost the game from here – for she knew it in her heart – that he'd be pretty much bummed himself if that happened....

Given that the test match had started on a Wednesday – Khushi hadn't been able to come see all days of play live due to her work and NGO commitments even though she obviously was keeping a tap of it all – online. But she obviously wasn't going to miss watching the final days play and given that it was a Sunday as well – everyone in their gang had come along to the stadium too. Everyone, expect for Rahul and Diya – given that the doctors had asked Diya to take it easy until she crossed the 12th week mark of her pregnancy....

And needless to say, not just her, but everyone around her was quite tensed as well in the moment given that the WI all rounder on crease had managed to score another 7 runs steadily in the next couple of overs – leaving just a target of 33 runs to be chased on – in the next 20 minutes...

As, the Indian unit on field got discussing briefly in between overs now with Skipper Veer and deputy Rohan chatting with Ravi next as he was coming in to bowl - Khushi is in the middle of biting her nails off her right hand in nervousness when she feels Asher nudge her playfully in the arm as he whispers leaning sideways into her ears – " breathe...Khushi...breathe...you'v literally been holding onto your breathe...nervously....don't be nervous...am sure...India's got this...just three wickets needed...and twenty minutes still to go.."

Khushi gapes at him sideways at that knowing that he was quite enjoying her nervous ordeal like he had all day given that he was the only one in the gang apart from her knowing her very personal reason for the momentary nervousness for Arnav. She says now whispering into his ears so that neither Yug, Manika, Nina nor Zara, Zain, Mika di or Atharv Jiju heard her – " you are quite enjoying my ordeal ...aren't you??"

That makes Asher admit with a nod as he whispers and smiles cheekily –" ofcourse... I am quite enjoying it..just like I'v been enjoying it all day...".

Asher knew, that in the last eight days – Khushi had also been meeting ASR regularly in the evenings and by the way her grin had been reaching her eyes along with the twinkle of sheer happiness in it - he obviously understood that things were going pretty steady and well for the two.

Asher hears Khushi whisper now in his ears – " oh stop enjoying my nervousness in the moment Asher, seriously at the point...I am kinda happy...I cannot bite the nails of my prosthetic left hand given that I'v legit chewed my right hands nails in all my nervousness...already anyway..."

That makes Asher bite back his chuckle but at the time as they both spot – his Bhabhi plus Zara, Manika shoot the two hopeful looks whispering amongst themselves – the two end up exchanging knowing looks as if they knew – that everyone around them was still hoping that the two would fall back into their dating equation...

Right then, the play of the next over comes into the picture and luckily for Khushi everyone returns their attention to the game and field – leading her to fixate her eyes on Arnav once again. Well, for everyone around expect for Asher – it just seemed like her normal gaming emotion to be just this focused on ASR but in her heart within – only she knew what the truth was...

On a personal front, in the last eight days, it was as if emotionally things had just been on some sort of a massive accelerator in between Arnav and Khushi. The hours they'd been meeting in the evenings until nights every day – had resulted in things just escalating quite deeply emotionally for the two as they spent significant quality time together. Apart from their long talks about the present moments from Khushi's days, cricket,Arnav's gaming emotions through the test match + Khushi positively empowering him and supporting him as always – they'd also spent significant time talking about their time in the past years apart – eager to fill in and share the rest of it all with the other...as well. It was as if now that they were finally catching up..they wanted the other to know every bit of their respective journey's in the years apart...

The bit that Arnav had also now read all of Khushi's diaries had been a constant vulnerable emotional factor in between the two. Almost every day in their meetings – he'd bring up a bit from her diary that had moved him so much – and that would just lead the two to emotionally embrace one another madly – before losing themselves into each other's arms, lips and deep caresses in the while. Then when it would be time to get apart – they'd end up whispering sweet whispers of feelings into one another..promising to meet...one another at the decided time the next day. And needless to say, when they were not physically in front of the other, they were also spending a lot of time on calls, video calls and texts as and when time permitted on either of their ends.Khushi continued to feel the happiest she'd ever been in her heart – just like Arnav.

In the present moment again though, as Khushi stole a side glance at Asher next to her – she fought back a sigh within – wishing that she could say the same for him. But , alas, she couldn't at all – given that she hadn't been able to convince Asher on meeting Maya at all in the last eight days despite her regular trials on the same. Of course, Asher had been mad at her momentarily at discovering from her that she'd actually met Maya but then given that he understood her intentions on the same, he couldn't like stay mad her longer for this but at the same time – Khushi felt he was being like super stubborn about not budging from his point of like never wanting to see Maya again. She could see that he was in the turmoil of it all – still. Dammit – Him.And given that she was aware of Maya's helplessness and turmoil too in all these days – Khushi felt like so sad about the entire situation.

This was another reason why she'd literally dragged Asher along to watch the final days of play of this test match with her – hoping that he'd finally be able to get a glimpse of Maya on field around the support unit somehow. Well, Asher was still oblivious to Maya working in her job at the moment and Khushi hadn't filled him on that part of yet – for she felt like if he knew, there would be no way he'd even come to the stadium during these test match series...

But, Khushi dammed the situation now nonetheless in her head on that accord for somehow – given that Maya has been completely busy in the back end of her work with the support unit – she hasn't been spotted on the ground with her naked eye or on the screen. So, now , Khushi feels like, her this plan was failing too? Perhaps – she just find another way...she had to make sure Asher saw Maya by the end of today...

She is right on that thought when she hears Yug sigh from behind along with Zain dejected – " guys...its over ...we guess...WI just needs...20 runs to win now..with twelve minutes of play still..."

And that makes Khushi and Asher say together on reflex – " its never over until the last ball guys....chill....why be so pessimistic?"

And that makes Manika, Nina and Zara say to the two on reflex– " oh just get back together you two...see...you are still talking in sync..."

That makes Asher say to them first – " guys..c'mon...Khushi and me are always in sync when it comes to cricket...but that's not going to be a reason for us to get back together okay...please? just stop hoping on the same??,"and as he pauses – Khushi affirms the same to everyone as well which leads to everyone sighing momentarily. It does not miss Khushi's eye that Atharv Jiju had eyed Asher narrow eye-d at that. Khushi assumed that he was still the only one apart from Rekha aunty and her...who was surely aware on Asher's turmoil on Maya's return...

Right then, the sudden shout outs and stir up in the stands – pulls everyone's attention back to the game and as Khushi catches on what's happening on field now – she asks Asher excited placing her right hand on his arm – " Asher...is it what I see it is?? Did skipper Veer - just pull off a stupendous catch at slip??????"

Asher nods excited himself now – " yes yes....Khushi....I think he did...pull of just that given the way everyone is celebrating...the umpires just going to check if the catch is clean..."

And just like that – Khushi along with every Indian fan in the stand holds onto her breath excited – her eyes fixating itself on Arnav's frame again from her position and once the big screen does read – OUT – she is the first one to jump up in glee – stating – YES Yes Yes – as the Indian players on field begin celebrating as well...

Suddenly, given that they'd just got the wicket of the WI all rounder who had been threating to take it beyond the line for WI – Indian players feels like they got this slight window new found hope in the game. WI still needed about 18 runs to win but India just needed the last two wickets of the tail enders – given that the other set batter was on the other side....

And once again, the gaming excitement at Sabina Park heightens - as they all see Ravi come in with the next killer inswinger delivery which makes the batter play at it mistimed – and the ball lands straight into ASR's gloves as he dives sideways to claim the CATCH! And just as the Umpire signal _ OUT _ at that again – Khushi can only jump up in glee again celebrating with the rest – seeing Arnav hug onto his mates on field elated...

Dammit. Yes...!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

India was just a wicket away now.Ravi still had another ball to bowl in the over and suddenly everyone in the stadium was completely blown away in the gaming excitement of the moment...

Khushi can only clutch onto Zara's shoulder excited as she was right in front of her – as Ravi bowl in the next ball finally after deep discussion with his Skipper – and as they all see the last batsmen come out off his crease to hit the ball – plus that he isn't able to get the timing of his shot right – with ASR – managing to pull off a killer lightning fast stumping at that – much to the delight of every Indian supporter in the stand + the Indian team + dug out.....EVERYONE JUMPS ONTO THEIR FEET IN HAPPINESS – ALMOST INSTANTLY! JUST LIKE THE ENTIRE INDIAN UNIT ON FIELD – WITH Rohan, Yash and Suraj being the first to engulf Arnav in a happy hug patting his arms at that...

And once the Umpire does declare OUT at that finally – declaring India as the winner of the first test match by 18 runs – the gaming atmosphere at Sabina Park is a bittersweet one – with India celebrating Victory finally and with WI camp being gutted obviously....

And Khushi couldn't help but wipe her happy tears as everyone celebrated around her with no one but Asher yet again knowing the true reason for her exhilaration and emotion in the moment! She was so freaking exhilarated for Arnav in the moment....indeed....

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A Shortwhile later – On The Ground

Everyone in the Indian unit at the moment was consumed in gaming exhilaration – obviously. Be it players, coaches or support unit. Needless to say as cricketers, every player lived for moments like these. For these games...that made them experience the very thrill of it all in their minds until the very last minute... also helped the unit grow in their gaming experience together.

To say that everyone was collectively- Blown Away – in the gaming excitement off pulling off this thrilling victory would be an understatement indeed. Skipper Veer was all smiles during his post match presentation as well (that had just finished couple of minutes ago)– commending his squad for the enthralling five days of play...

Suraj bites back his grin now as he winks at Yash and Ravi – gesturing to the sight of Arnav rushing across the ground a lot more quicker – than them all now in a whisper – " bhai logon...kya lagta hai...yeh hamara player of the match kyun itni jaldi bhagne mein laga hua hai dressing room ki taraf?? Apna award andar rakhne ke liye? Ki apna phone on karne ke liye??( brothers...why do you think our player of the match is rushing in towards the dressing room right now? to keep his award in or to get to his phone first??,"and at that the three exchange a happy chuckle just pulling on Arnav to a halt by placing their hands on his shoulder as Ravi winks and adds into his ears – " itni kya jaldi hai mere yaar...zara hamare saath chal le..."( whats the rush my brother..walk with us..)

Arnav clutches on to his player of the match award in his hand grinning narrowing his eyes at his closest ones who were surely being cheeky in the moment as he scanned the stands around at Sabina Park stadium once again – " maza aa raha haina tum logon ko? Mere tang kheech ke abhi?? Chalo tang mat karo abhi...tum sab ko pata hai..mujhe andar jaldi kyun jaana hai..."( you all are enjoying troubling me right now..I am aware about it..cmon quit on it you all..let me head in..first...you all know why I am in such a rush)

Yash whispers at that now – " haan haan...pata hai hume kyun itni jaldi padi hai tujhe.....stand mein toh dikhi nai teri jaan...game ke baadd..tabse teri nazrein usse hi toh dhund rahi thi...toh tab socha tune..chalo phone ka hi sahara lena padega..."( yes yes, we know bro...why you in such a rush...after the game..your eyes have been wandering around the stands trying to spot your jaan...but given that you didn't spot her...you thinking you have no other option but to resort to your phone..)

Arnav winks at his closest buddies – " haan bass yeh baat sahi boli tune yash..jaan toh woh hai meri....hamesha se...par kya yaar..yeh itna saara crowd tha...ek nazar bhi nai dikhi....isiliye toh phone ke pass bhaag raha hun..."( yes, yes, Yash...you are right on that..she is my jaan...always has been...but what ya...in the middle of so much crowd no way I could catch a glimpse of her even..no wonder...I am rushing to my phone..)

Everyone chuckles at that and Suraj grins and asks now in a whisper – " chal chal...pehle yeh bata..milwa kab raha hai..apni khushi se?? hum sab ko??"( first you tell us bro..when are you making us meet your khushi haan??")

That makes Arnav chuckle wide eyed – " tum paglon se milawane ka risk nai le sakta abhi...nervous kardo ge usse...haan par...tour ke end pe...definetly milwaunga...,"( cant risk her meeting you all crazies now..you'll make her nervous...yes but surely towards the end of out tour...)

Now suddenly before Ravi, Yash or Suraj can say anything to that – they all hear their seniors from behind (Skipper Veer, Rohan + Chetan)ask in unison happily catching upto them – " yeh kya tum chaaron ka chal raha hai..chinese whispers? Hume bhi batao??"( what you four discussing in Chinese whispers ever since?haan? tell us..too??")

And given the moment – everyone obviously covers up the actual talk with gaming exhilaration in front of the seniors momentarily as everyone begins to chat and relive the last bit of the winning over – whilst heading into the dressing room now.

Once in, needless to say, Arnav was the first to rush to his stuff excited eyeing to Yash, Ravi, Suraj to let him be now and not take his case as yet. The three just exchange happy – thike chal tu ja ja( okay okay..you be) – gestures with Arnav at that as they get to their respective stuffs too – with the atmosphere in the dressing room being all chill and happy.

Arnav places his player of the match award happily next to his bag now and switches on his phone at the speed of light. The minute he does, he has numerous messages awaiting him in the family group and also on his text chat with Khushi – from different intervals in the game plus her many congratulatory texts after victory! He quickly goes through them all grinning to himself and once done with that minutes later, happily overwhelmed, he quickly texts Khushi.

Him : Khushi............just switched on my phone and read your texts! Thank you so much sweetheart for your congratulatory wishes. You know the bummer bit though? I couldn't spot you at all in the stands today at all neither during break times or after the game! Where are you now? Left the stadium yet??

His phone beeps in twenty seconds.

Khushi : Once again...we all are just on our way to the parking Arnav...you read my texts??? Right? please tell me...you read all of them? The bits of me writing my gaming nervousness for you in the middle as well..along with the crazy happy one's after your victory and your killer catch out and stumping in the last over??

Arnav grins to himself and shoving his towel to wipe off some sweat off his neck he types : yes yes, I read all of them...Khushi..Of course!

His phone beeps.

Khushi : and its so amazing that in moments like these, even though you couldn't spot me – I toh had my eyes on you only like all the time, which had Asher gloating to me mischievously though..given that only he understood the exact context of where I was coming from...by the way...he passes on congratulations as well...

Arnav grins at that again as he types : thank him from my end for the same – Khushi. Also, I love the sound of you having your eyes on me – even though it was such a bummer that I couldn't get a sight of you...kaise lagi meri last wali lightening fast stumping??"(how did you like the last bit of my lightening fast stumping)

Khushi : loved it – obviously! Godaamit...your killer reflexes behind the stumps is amazing Arnav!

Arnav smiles and types : ek baat bolun?(shall I say something?)

Khushi : bolo na?(yes please?

Arnav grins to himself as he changes his mind : chalo...milke batata hun...(will talk once we meet) our plan is on – right? we are meeting – as usual? 730 pm tonight?as we decided yesterday??

Khushi : are you sure? you don't want to delay that by a bit?Arnav?given the victory..and celebartions with your unit?

Arnav sips on his gateorade now as he types : Nah, you know you are the one I want to celebrate with more. So don't worry about any of that. I'll be there before time..as usual...

His phone beeps.

Khushi : okay kool then..ofcourse plan is on...as in yes we are meeting...but I was thinking to change it up slightly tonight? For Asher's sake. As in – I have just brewed up a plan off getting Maya and Asher face to face finally. Let us – have him face her at the apartment only na just like he had me face you. I was just on text with Maya – five minutes ago...she's okay with coming there...you know she'd do anything to see him now given that she's been as helpless due to his stubbornness on the same for the last eight days....infact...given that we – either Asher or me wasn't able to spot her in the stadium today he still has no clue about her job with your unit ya for I didn't give it away it..yet.I think about time, these two just face one another ya..what say?? We'll just head out? Ourselves then? I mean – I'll borrow Ashers car...we can drive around...go to this view point...I really wana show you too...

Arnav nods to himself at that as he takes a seat in his chair now eyeing the sight off the entire support unit now getting into the dressing room to congratulate everyone just then as well. Maya is a part of it – too. He types now deep in thought : hmmm...sounds like a nice plan..Khushi. Chalo set hai. Yeh karte hai... (Chalo its done then...lets do this). You are right, perhaps? the only way we get Asher to face maya could be this as well...

Khushi : yayyy! Thank you so much for being up for this Arnav...look you just wait for me down below...only though? k? ill just shove Asher face to face with Maya and then make my way down and back to you – k?

Arnav types quickly : okies...done! Can't wait to see you...already..though..

Khushi : same here...obviously! Spoken to everyone back at home yet? Surely there would be texts from them even though its late night in India..??

Right then coincidentally – Arnav's phone buzzes with his parents text on family group again and he types : nah, not spoken to them yet. Was thinking of just calling them...after talking to you..

Khushi : okay then...you call them then? given that I'v just gotten into the backseat and am technically next to Zara whose being extra snoopy by eyeing my phone right now...wondering who have I been texting grinning to myself given that Asher is in the front seat anyway chatting with Zain in the moment...

Arnav chuckles at that as he types : do you think?she'll be the first one to catch onto us??eventually??

His phone beeps.

Khushi : haha...maybe...in time...perhaps..yes...okay bye for now! see you soon! will text you sooner though – in a while..

Arnav bites back his smile at that and finally after texting bye to Khushi he gets onto calling his parents + Anj on a collective conference call. In the process – as his eyes fall in on the sight of Maya chatting away with the rest of the admin members of the support unit – upfront – he can't help but think – that yup – about time – that Khushi finally shove Asher & Maya face to face. You know how they say? When the oil doesn't come out from the straight finger one's just got to twist their ways?

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

A While Later

Around 7:15 PM –

Asher narrows his eyes at Khushi as the two step into the elevator of the building – " are you sure? Khushi?? that he wants to meet me??right now?why me???and not just you...I totally reckoned he'd want his evening time with just you today..more so...after the thrilling victory...I still don't understand...what could he want to discuss with me at this time??"

Well, Khushi had planned this context for it felt like that would be the only way she'd get Asher up with her. She taps her feet restless now, knowing that Maya was already in there – at the moment and covers up and nods - " surely Asher, he wants to discuss something important ya...why else would he ask me to get you along??? Perhaps..it is about work? You know...coz Yash is now super interested in that new project for investment..??"

Asher nods studying Khushi.Well, this development had happened in the last eight days as well. Yash was already now it talks with both Atharv and Asher for their new project given that he'd seen how happy Suraj's family especially his father has been over Suraj's surprise to him – upon his arrival here – on the day before the first test match. But as he spots Khushi tapping her feet nervously in the moment still as the elevator took them up he asks again deep in thought – " but...wait...Khushi..if it was work related coz of Yash...he could have just texted me..too..right???,"and right then as the elevator door opens and he sees Khushi rush out to the apartment he follows instantly asking – " wait...why did you rush without an answer??,"and given that Khushi still doesn't answer him but taps in the number key into the lock – and steps in a rush suddenly – Asher can only wonder in puzzlement momentarily stepping in – behind her – instantly.

And once in – his puzzlement only rises for he most surely doesn't spot ASR there around the living room and he asks Khushi instantly – " wait....why don't I see him here??? haan??Khushi??"

And at that he finally sees Khushi turn around to face him as she sighs taking a step closer in front of him as she whispers – " that's because...he isn't here...Asher.....but she is..."

That only makes Asher gape at Khushi as he asks confused – " huh??"

And Khushi explains taking a deep breathe knowing that Maya could surely hear her – from her position in one of the rooms right now – " Asher...I am so sorry I tricked you into this..situation perhaps...but I had no other option ok?given that you'v been so stubborn on it for days.....,"and given that she spots so much puzzlement in his eyes still – Khushi finally sighs – " who do you think is here? Asher? Maya...ofcourse....about time you just face her.."

BLOOD DRAINS OFF Asher's face instantly as he registers what Khushi means in the moment and he feels his being not just his face pale at that as he asks looking around the apartment suddenly feeling super restless – " what did you just say??Khushi?? Maya is here? you tricked me...into coming here...to see...Maya????knowing that I want nothing to do with her anymore...absolutely...,"and at that as he sees Khushi sigh and shrug – he can only gape at her in turmoil as he states suddenly turning around – " damm...I am not staying here...for a second longer...Khushi...I am leaving..."

And before Khushi can say anything to stop him – she hears Maya's soft broken voice come in from beside as she asks stepping out from the spot she'd hidden – " Really?Asher? will you rally leave here...after knowing...that I am right here? will you really not even look at me???? will you really not even say hello?"

THAT FROM MAYA STILLS – ASHER IN HIS SPOT. FREEZES HIM MORE SO. Why? Because – HER VOICE – sounded exactly like his memories – remembered. In the moment...for sure. Dammit? Was this really happening to him? Was Maya – really like right behind him – right now??

MOMENTARILY, he was glad he had turned around so that he had his back to her in the moment. Good, coz it would be better if she didn't spot the already pale him lose all the minimal colour in his face. In the moment, he also felt quite angry at Khushi for pushing him into the scene. He was still statued to his spot – when he spots Khushi now walk over to stand in front of him now as she holds his arm and requests – " Asher...I know...you are angry that I tricked you into this moment...but now that you are finally here you can't just leave...look behind you...Maya is right there....,"and at that he spots her look behind him in reassurance and worry – both – probably reassuring Maya that he'd surely turn around to look at her.

Asher narrows his eyes at Khushi at that as he whispers all of his frame going into an instant cold statue mode – " you shouldn't have...Khushi...you shouldn't have..."

And Khushi just whispers to that – " fight with me later...k? no worries...I'll handle you being mad at me for this...no worries...but you got to face this...please? look at her...talk to her...just once...she's here to apologize Asher...we both know that...at least give her a chance to apologize..."

And before Asher can even say anything to that – he hears Maya's very familiar soft broken voice fall into his ears again as she asks – " look at me..once? please? just once? Asher? Talk to me...once...just once...please???its killing me..butchering me rather..that you won't even look at me..right now..."

Perhaps – it was her tearful tone that got the better of him in the moment? A situation he finds himself damming his insides for – but Asher finally nods at Khushi at that in a gesture that he will handle this – now that he had no option anyway which makes Khushi sigh in relief – and with his heartbeats going all haywire on him in anger still as memories of their last showdown haunted him – Asher finally turns around to finally look at Maya.

And the very second – he does see her – and Maya's broken plus emotional gaze finally does meet Asher's – Maya feels totally blown away in the explosion of the emotions she feels within her as she soaks in the moment of Asher finally looking at her after years...

Emotions.Deeep emotions and aching onslaught of memories of their time together plus their last showdown continued to haunt the two simultaneously as they finally – face one another. All Maya wanted to do was just race the distance in between of them and hug him hard – and meltdown in his arms – but given that she could spot Asher statued – in his spot his eyes filled with hurt at finally seeing her – she doesn't act on any of that knowing that he was surely reliving the hurtful words – she'd hurled at him – on that day. The hurtful words and the deep accusations.....

Oh! What a bittersweet moment it was as Asher and Maya finally came face to face – after years as well.She was Blown away in the ache, love, repentance of it all and he was just Blown Away in the explosive hurt of it all – all over again...

He couldn't help it. Asher felt like he couldn't help but have his mind shove those aching memories down his being all over again as he stood frozen finally looking at Maya. Nothing else seemed to matter more in the moment – but his internal tsunami of hurt and betrayal – that just came back to surface – making him feel like that yup he'd just buried the hurt inside deep but never really dealt with it?

And – who was the other person in the audience – in the situation who was completely Blown away as well?

Khushi, ofcourse. Why? Because, as she took in the heavy emotional vibe in the air plus the vulnerable look on both Asher + Maya's faces as they stood rooted to their spots in deep shades of different angles of vulnerability – she thought she'd never seen the intensity of emotions in Asher's eyes before than she was seeing now. Even though it was hurt, ache, betrayal more so....what she couldn't help but notice that the intensity of the vibe radiating from him was on another level altogether....

Damm. Who was Asher kidding? Who had he been kidding all this while thinking he'd dealt with it all? Oh he hadn't dealt with it all. He had just buried it deep within – just like her – perhaps???????

And - Perhaps – better she just leave the two alone now?Khushi wonders?? And finally just sighing to herself – nodding at Maya briefly as tears began to roll down her (maya's)cheeks as well – Khushi just takes her leave at that – stepping out the door – closing it shut almost instantly – so glad that she'd finally gotten the two face to face!

An explosion was inevitable in between the two? But better the explosion than the years of aching misunderstanding and silence...Khushi thought...indeed.

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

Just as Khushi leaves, and closes the door shut – Maya finally instructs herself to get a grip on her haywire emotions and wiping her tears she finally says to Asher – her eyes roaming all over him – desperately soaking in the sight of the present him thinking that he'd surely gotten more ruggedly charming and handsome with time – " you look great...Asher....how'v you been? It's been a while..."

And that – finally pulls Asher out of his turmoil as well as he just answers statued in his spot still keeping his steely hurtful gaze locked with hers as he scoffs – "well, yes, it's been a while..indeed....,"and as he eyes the present personaa of Maya that surely had gotten more gorgeous with time he damms his mind off shoving a happy memory of their time with her being in his arms – into his heart just then. He covers up at that as he continues clearing his throat – " you look...great...too..Maya...to be fair enough..and well isn't this a moment...I never saw coming....in my life...god only knows what you did to coax Khushi into arranging this....but what part of my words?didnt you understand on text Maya? I thought I'd made myself clear...very clear...I don't want anything to do with you??"

That makes Maya finally take steps towards him shivering in her being – trembling as tears ran down her cheeks – " I know...you made your stand clear...but I had to see you...Asher...I had to apologize.....I...am sorry...I am so sorry....,"and at that as she finally comes to stand in front of him she whispers emotional and vulnerable – " I am sorry...I..am...so..s..o...so..rry....i...should..have t..rusted...you...I...I...,"and she brushes his arm at that tenderly – " I am...so...rr...y..."

And the minute he hears that from her and feels her touch on his arm – Asher feels something inside of him SNAP OUT OF CONTROL as he finds his hands act on reflex pushing her hand off his arm blown away with the anger bubbling inside of him now as he vents or rather exclaims – "you will not touch me...again?Maya? do I make myself clear?? and only you can freaking have the audacity to just think that it's going to be so easy?To just aim to walk into my life now? and begin with an apology??? Huh??what?? just what what will you apologize for haan?? for breaking my heart then?for breaking us?? For never trusting me when I begged you too?for beleiving the worse your mind assumed?for doubting my ethics and integrity? And for only realising what it was – after Rebecca came out clean to you??? I told you then...if you'd trust a proof or someone else's words over my heartfelt ones ever...from then...that would just kill me...more...Maya....even more brutally...than your act of mistrust in me then....and that's exactly whats happened...so my sincere apologies...if I stand here and say to your face...right now..that no...your sorry is not enough..perhaps..never can be good enough...for just your apology or your damm sorry cannot undo...the hurt you caused me dammit...."

And at that from Asher plus the intensity of hurt still radiating from him – makes Maya trembles in her being in bittersweet way. Why? Because even though she could sense he was so furious – to discover the fact that she still affected him deep elated her broken heart momentarily which leads her to take a step towards him boldly nonetheless– " I know....that my sorry cannot...undo...what I did...my apology cannot undo my blunder...but that is also not going to stop me from making it....Asher...I owe you a sincere apology....I know...I do....atleast give me a chance to make it..."

The moment makes Asher step back in his frame as he glares hard at her - " I don't freaking want your apology....take it dammit..and return to your Miami..."

Maya sighs at that taking a step closer to him as he steps back again – " why will I go back to Miami?? When I am here on my official work..with the Men in Blue??? Even though you didn't ask...I want to tell you...I landed my dream job with the Indian cricket team...asher...in their support unit ...as a new member in sports nutrition....you remember?don't you? I always told you back then...while studying nutrition back in college...that this is exactly what I'd be aiming for...one day...and look ...finally it was that very bit...that got me here...to you...."

Now that shocks and surprises Asher deep as he asks on reflex his eyes widening as his head connects the dots on Khushi's accord. Did she figure out through ASR that Maya was working with their unit now – " what?? what did you just say??"

And once Maya affirms it to him with a nod again she asks - " you heard me right..the very first time....won't you say something?now atleast?perhaps..congratulate me for landing my dream job? Finally?also fun fact Asher – I fast- tracked my own joining so that I could come to Jamaica finally...."

Asher stands still. He does not react to the moment at all. More so, because his head was now also still reconnecting the dots on Khushi+Asr's accord. Surely, ASR was on board with Khushi in this plan..now it seemed...

Unable to take his shocked silence now – Maya just takes a step further towards him now and wiping a tear out of her eye again she says locking her emotional gaze with his – " your silence is killing me...say something please??"

But Asher doesn't. He stays silent.He hears her ask again trembling taking a step towards him again – "say something please??"

And Asher finally glares at her angrily as he says – " you want me say something...fine? I'll say it...ill say exactly what I have on my mind...leave..Maya..leave here now...just get the hell out of here...dammit....I don't want to see you ever again..."

That whips the hell out of Maya obviously but then once again it felt good to spot so much anger in his eyes coz of her – for once again it re-instilled the bit in her that she clearly affected him deeply – still. Perhaps – the only way she had to leave more of an impact right now on him in the present – was to continue being bold in her expressions nonetheless. She asks now whispering – " you really want me to leave right now??"

Asher glares and nods – " dammit yes...I want you to leave..and guess what? if you don't...I freaking will..."

And at that Maya sighs and gestures him to stay put in his spot as she says – " I'll go...fine...I'll go...but before I go...can I at-least one last thing??,"fresh tears oozing outta her eyes.

Asher says angrily – " just say whatever you want to ..and get the hell out of here...maya..."

And because – Maya knew – Asher would never in his wildest dreams expect her to do this or say this in the moment she does the exact bit of it boldly. Nodding to him at that finally, she takes two steps forward towards him and cupping his face suddenly she closes her lips over his instantly – consuming both his upper lip and lower lip into all of hers in an intense vulnerable kiss from her end to him as she whispered – "I never stopped loving you...Asher....never...and I am here for you....I want you back...and I'd be dammed...if I didn't win you back..."

To say that – the moment – BLEW ASHER'S MIND AWAY – would be an understatement indeed. Did this just happen?Did – Maya just kiss him right now??Did she just say what she did?? And did he freaking just freeze to a spot of liquid bloody nitrogen in shock – coz of the same???? Given that his heart exploded with countless memories of their intimate moments + emotional promises to one another...just then...

DAMM HER.

DAMMIT HER.

HE HATED HER – MOMENTARILY. HOW COULD HER ONE TOUCH? ONE TOUCH OF HER LIPS ON HIM – STIR UP SO MUCH IN HIM?DESPITE HIS HURT?

Ten shocked seconds. It took him ten shocked seconds – to finally push Maya away at that as he glared at her anger peaking him even more now – " freak you...are you outta your mind Maya?? How dare you???? are you crazy????? Back off from me..dammit...and guess what? I never stopped hating you...ever since...though...I'v really hated you all this while..."

The rage in his eyes makes Maya bite back a relived sigh within nonetheless given that the shock evident in his eyes along with the turmoil she could see – was a signal to her that once again – her this step had blown him away.She sighs now – " fair enough...Asher...its okay...if you hated me all this while...or still do....why is it okay? because...I know you hate me for breaking your heart...for breaking us...but guess what? I'd still like to maintain my stand...I'd be dammed...if I didn't win you back...and for that if I have to fight you...I bloody well will......dammit...I bloody well will.....so know...that you will see me again...soon...come what may....dammit...come what may....and before I leave...I ask this off you ...what you have done?haan? if you'd walked in to find me in bed with say Rehaan? Your bestie from college days then haan? wouldn't have you been blinded by rage? Too? wouldn't you have been too broken emotionally to even make sense of what was happening then?Asher? I know...it was all set up by Rebecca then dammit....now....but back then.....it....it....I...I...I..felt butchered too...dammit...I was too butchered to make sense of what was happening...dammit....I made a mistake...yes...and I bloody well...set it right....think over this food for thought question...I leave you with though...dammit...think of it...,"and at that – unable to control her tears longer in the moment – she finally just takes her Leave – rushing her way out the door – leaving a very shocked – stunned – ASHER – behind.

And what could Asher do in the moment – as Maya walked out closing the door shut on him?Saying all that she just did?????? Shocked, stunned and shaken – he could only walk to the nearest room in this apartment – straight into the shower – switching on the Hot Water Spray on the clothed him – almost instantly.

Why?

Because , only water, could cool down the flame of explosion of the range of vulnerable emotions...he was feeling in the moment ...indeed...

He had been avoiding seeing Maya – only because he feared how deep his being would tremble at finally seeing her – right? His gut had been right perhaps? Because now – it suddenly felt like his being hadn't just trembled....IT HAD JUST BEEN FREAKING BLOWN AWAY...IN MASSIVE EXPLOSION...INDEED...as her words haunted him...along with the moment she closed her lips over his...in the present ...as well...

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

About 90 Minutes Later

At a View Point overlooking the Beach-Strip They'd Met at in the Present

Arnav's POV

I don't know whether the water in far line of my vision is feeling more at peace within – at the steady rhythms of waves consuming it – or the beats of my heart within? Surely, it's the latter, guys.

Khushi and me have been chilling at this high altitude view point – over looking the beach strip where we met again after ages – for a while now. After she finally got – Maya and Asher face to face – she rushed her way down only to find me waiting for her – obviously. Post which, she surprised by being the one to drive us to this view point enroute which she'd also stopped by to pick us quick bytes for dinner and small cupcakes for our victory celebration amongst just us. We obviously made our way here – then during which she also filled me in on the intense vibes she spotted in between Asher and Maya as well. We'd decided not to text disturb Asher for developments knowing , he'd probably text Khushi himself eventually. Once we reached this viewpoint, which was thankfully pretty deserted – we just sat by on this bench at the far end over looking this beach strip below – which already holds a special place in our lives.And ever since then, its just been constant happy chatter in between us two as we ate...

Now you know why, I feel like surely my within's are lot more at peace??

At the moment, Khushi's got her head rested on my shoulder as well, as we'v been taking turns to feed each other the cupcakes.

As Khushi finally feeds me the last bite now – she asks looking up at me sideways as if she remembered something – "oh damm...amidst our talking ...I forgot to ask you off this ya...what was it that you mentioned on text earlier after the game from the stadium...stating you'd bring it up when we meet??"

I smile at that reminder on reflex.

I cup her cheek now snug after gulping down the bite of cupcake she's fed me so lovingly – " oh you mean the bit I mentioned...after asking...kaise lagi thi woh meri lightening fast..stumping??"( after asking...how did you like my lightening fast stumping??)

Khushi nods at that immediately smiling adjusting her cheek in my hand snug – " ji haan...exactly that bit..so what was it that you wanted to say??"

I grin and wink – " the bit...that kya tumhe pata hai..kabhi main sochta hun...ki tum mujhse better stumping kar leti agar try karo...kyunki itni expert jo ho..meri dil ko stump karne...mein..lightening fast hamesha..."( that do you know..so often I think..perhaps...you'd be a great at stumping lightening fast yourself...given that you are such an expert at stumping the wickets of my heart...lightening fast..)

Khushi grins happily at that as she cups my cheek leading me to settle my cheek comfortably in her right hand as well now all snug – " really? tumse better stumping kar leti mein???? tumhe yeh lagta hai kya? Kabhi nai...uss mein tum hi expert ho..chahe baat pitch pe wickets ki ho...ki yahan....mere dil ki wickets ki..( really? you think, I can be better than you at stumping? No..never...in that you are the expert only be it wickets on pitch or the wickets in my heart..,"she gestures placing her left hand on her heart now – stumping my heart lightening fast yet again with the intensity of emotions shining in her eyes – just for me.

I point out dramatically now placing her left hand over my heart now sure that my eyes are twinkling happier than the twinkling stars in the sky just now – " uff...third umpire ko review ke liye bula le...dekha..phir se uda diya tumne mere dil ka off stump.."( uff...lets call the third umpire for review..given that you just blew my off stump away again within with that..)

We share a happy chuckle at that and I keep my forhead on hers snug and admit just caressing her prosthetic hand over my heart holding it snug – " pata hai kya? Tumhe batana chahta hun ek aur baat....aaj happily surprise aur stump hogaya main..bilkul..tumhe itne comfortably drive karte... dekh khushi( know what?another thing I wana admit? I'v been happily surprised and stumped both seeing you drive so comfortably today..Khushi..)...I mean...I just assumed that you wouldn't be driving..."

Khushi smiles nodding at that and asks – " kyun? Kyunki tumhe laga...ki shayad mera left backseat wala fear...mujhe rok raha hoga??"( why? Did you think that presuming that my fear of sitting in the left side of the back seat would be stopping me still??)

I nod at that on reflex and she closes her eyes and admits – " to be honest...it was stopping me...you know...until last year..it really was on that accord...I couldn't even think of driving at the time last year...until...,"and she pauses and just shrugs it off – " never mind.."

Wait. Why did she just shrug this off??

That makes me tuck her chin up to look into my eyes as I ask – "don't shrug this off please? tell me?? why did you pause? What were you going to say after until.."

Khushi bites her lip as if she were skeptical – "are you sure?you wana know??"

I nod and she smiles a little and explains – " what I was going to say was...until...Asher came along ...it had been that way..only...Arnav...honestly...it was him who helped me navigate my way through my hitch about driving...himself...when we began dating..then...just slowly...and steadily he saw me through it...all...he like kinda was my own driving school...all over again..in that very car of his..,"she points gesturing to his car parked in far vision.

Okay! Now I get it why she wanted to shrug it off. She surely senses that her history with Asher still makes me uneasy. Might be petty of me guys. But I can't help it. Even though, I am glad he was there for her...saw her through it...it just makes me wish and hope badly that..it had just been me ...instead.

I remind myself again – that Khushi and me are in the middle of playing cupid for Asher and Maya now and we are finally together. I am right on that thought, when Khushi sighs studying my face – " see this is why...I was just shrugging it off Arnav...I didn't want to make you uneasy...given that I sense...what I do.."

I sigh at that and kiss her right hand – " you do sense it??right?"

She nods – " its obvious...your smile shortened a little...your eyes got the depth of discomfort...in it...as well.."

I ask kissing on her prosthetic now briefly – " do you think its petty of me?still? to feel kinda uneasy about your history with Asher?? Don't get me wrong..Khushi...its just that...a part of me so desperately wishes...it had been me...that it had just been me...by your side..all freaking along...even though a part of me also is glad that you got through the bit you did...with him by your side......"

Khushi reassures me instantly caressing my cheek – "well, I don't think, its petty of you..at all...k??" and I admit – " I am dealing with it..k? just give me more time to get there??"

Khushi nods and I surprise her by locking my lips over hers now in an intense brief kiss and just like that – outta the blue – I am struck by another petty thought at that that just freaking blows my mood away and suddenly – all of me is filled in with petty envy – again..

Or perhaps, its not petty but only natural. Only fair, I admit this straight out to Khushi so that she just never brings it up with me – ever – in conversations ever – amidst our quest of transparent communication with one another over anything and everything....for apparently – I just realised that there's surely a part of Khushi's life – that I want to stay blindsided about – COMPLETELY &Always.

Which part?

Her intimate history in her relationship with Dan or Asher. Only because I feel if I know the details of it all, it will just consume me with jealousy – deep.

Surely, she senses on my pausing amidst our kissing now with my vibe getting all heavy and she asks caressing my cheek – " hey...what's wrong???"

I try to sound the least petty as I can but I admit caressing her cheek now – " just ....something that came on my mind just now..Khushi...hear me out please??"

Khushi nods – momentarily concerned.

I admit locking my sincere gaze with hers – " apparently I just realised ...I mean its turns out that there's one part of your life.....that I want no headsup on whatso ever k? like ever? just keep me blinded on this forever...Khushi...k?promise me...just never utter a word on this to me..ever..."

She gapes at me in puzzled still – " huh?? what do you mean? what must I keep you blindsided on forever??"

I get up from my spot now restless as I turn to face her – "on the details of your intimate history with Dan or even Asher for that matter...k? I don't want to know about it ever – k? look...you were in a relationship with Dan for six months plus with Asher over a year..so yeah..I assume their fair share of it...but I am okay with just burying that in my head only because I feel like if I know those details...I'll end up losing up insides into a massive explosion of pettiness and envy...all over again..."

Khushi gapes at me shocked at that – deep in thought.Her lips get formed into a scowl..almost. Damm! I take my seat next to her at that back immediately and explain further – " Khushi..don't get me wrong...k? its just about the bit that now...that I have kissed you....felt what it feels like...now that I am with you...and we experience our intimate moments as we hold onto one another/caress one another – a deep part of me... a petty jealous part of me still just desperately wishes...that it had always been us....I...I..wait...are you like mad at me for brining this up?,"I pause, waiting for some reaction from her end.

She's still lost deep in thought – scowling hard - though. I begin to explain my point further when she places her finger on my lips now and whispers shaking her head keeping her forehad on mine – "And you don't get me wrong..please? don't presume my scowl to be like a sign of me being mad at you..K? its just that only when you mentioned this...to me...in my context...I just realised..that even I want to stay blindsided on that bit of your life Arnav from the past...I mean...I don't think...I ever want to know the details of your intimate history ever...like with Disha or even Pia for that matter...I just don't freaking wana know...any of it...ever....like ever...don't tell me..ever too...I'd just assume and bury it as a natural cause affect in my head...as well...k? that's all...I don't want to know..coz turns out I don't want to deal with it ..too....,"she adds lacing both her hand in my hair now – the vibe of possessiveness from her end for me now freaking obvious as well – " I just don't want to deal with that ever in my head too...."

Ahaaa! That suddenly makes my insides gloat in glee...

I ask narrowing my eyes mischeviously – "kya kaha tumne??"(what did you just say??")

She rolls her eyes – " phir se kahun?"(should I say it again??")

I grin – " kaho na.."(say it na..)

She shakes her head – " no.I won't say it..coz you know...why I mentioned it too...I guess? You surely know...I feel my insides being blown away in a supercrazy possesive streak right now...on that accord...as wel....l....dammi...,"and I do not let her complete saying the – T of the word Dammit – given that I am compelled to close my lips over hers – just then in a deep prolonged wild french kiss that's roaring super high on not just passion but possesive streak too – as she clutches my hair in her grip and I do the same to her – as our lips pour in the vibe of it all in a gut consuming duel.

Well, well, well, whose back to feeling – Blown Away – by the intensity of emotions consuming one's being deep – all over again?

Me – Obviously!

Or wait. Scratch that.

Why?

Because, it isn't me alone. It's the both of us. I say that with great conviction given the way I can sense it all in the way Khushi is kissing me right now...as if she just wants to erase and overwrite the bits of any woman ever having kissed me/touched me ever. Which is great – because – I am kissing her consumed in the same intense possessive streak at the moment – as well. Am I going to let her catch on a breathe anytime soon?

Nah. Not at all. I do not intend to do that right now...for a long long time.......Indeed!

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

Tadaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!

Howwwwzzzaaattt guys???

I hope you all enjoyed this update with its various scenes – the gaming bit + Asher and Maya meet finally + Arnav and Khushi's moments....

Next Update on this story : Will come in on Tuesday/Wednesday!

Thanks guys for all the love* support always.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Much Love* Infinite Gratitude❤️🙏❤️🙏

Now and always..

Prachi