Helloooo Everyoneee

How are you all doing? Hope you and your loved ones are doing great!!

So yes –as – this author has succumbed to a crazy writing spree...I am here with the next update, to end the week with – by Friday – Midnight...

I Absolutely loved penning this down. So excited for you all to read this! I truly am enjoying the writing journey of this tale – so so very much. I hope you all are enjoying the reading experience off the same, too.

I'd also like to take this moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for being with me on my writing journey. For all the love and for all the patience – always! Like I always say – you all are a part of this enriching learning curve of my journey as a writer too. So thank you to one and all – for your time and support – Always!

And okay so now without further delay I shall let you all dive in.

Word Count – 9.5 k Words

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11. You Are All I See...

Forty minutes into dinner, Samarth felt his gut confirm the thought out to him for the thousand-th time – almost. What thought? The thought, he'd voice to Amaar and Manizeh already.That there was no way, Arnav was back with the aim of being just friends with Khushi. He'd sensed it the very second – he'd spotted him look at Khushi – hadn't he?He was here for more. Arnav was here, for Khushi – in every sense. And the above premises, had only strengthened more in the last forty minutes...Indeed.

And it wasn't just because of the ways they could all sense Arnav looking at Khushi – all through out. It was also because, of Samarth's observation on how Arnav literally remembered every tiny detail about Khushi...and was most surely doing his best to make it all freaking obvious. He literally remembered all the tiny details, starting from as to how Khushi always preferred to sit at the far corner of the table for meals, which was why Arnav had pulled out a chair for her to sit in a sheer gentleman gesture and Khushi of-course, to spite him in the moment, had chosen to sit elsewhere but not in the chair he'd pulled out for her – saying – she just didn't prefer to sit there anymore.

Manizeh, Amaar and Samarth knew what she was upto – obviously. They all knew – that she'd always sit in the corner in a group gathering – always but in the moment – surely within she was irked with the bit that Arnav remembered, which was why she just decided to prove to him otherwise.

And it didn't stop there, obviously. In fact, it was where it all started. They'd all observed on Arnav just grinning to himself instead as he'd let Khushi have the seat she wished, and he just went onto take a seat right opposite her – nonetheless. Then, when the server came to take their order - they'd all seen – Arnav ask Khushi politely, first if she still preferred sparkling water over still, and once again even though the three knew it was always her first choice of preference, just to spite Arnav in the moment, they'd seen Khushi give him a tight challenging smile, before she went on to order still water for herself.

And it seemed that Arnav was in no intention of stopping anyway, for he didn't give up and when the server started to take their respective orders for drinks and Khushi and Manizeh had decleared that they wouldn't indulge in alcohol, because it was the rule they stuck too – on the nights before diving– Arnav asked Khushi looking straight at her - if she still preferred to have her virgin mojito with coke in it instead of the usual soda for the mocktail – and as expected even though it was Khushi's favourite mocktail drink in the whole wide world, she went on to order differently.

The repeat happened – when it was time to place the order for food as well. Arnav asked Khushi – if she'd like to order her favourite dish in the Italian which was the good old spaghetti aglio oilio with the side off roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes, and even though it still was that – they'd all seen Khushi just glare at him at that as she went onto order a vegetable risotto - this time around. And, Arnav was clear in his intent to just get under her nerve maybe? Which was why – he placed the order of Khushi's favourite dish for himself – instead – raising a mocking eyebrow at her – in the process.

And needless to say – the entire vibe in the air was super intense and electric all because of the way Arnav and Khushi kept looking at each other intensely, in the middle of this to and fro – tug of war kind of situation in between the two. He wanted to make his point clear.And she even though was catching onto the underlying intensity of it all – was just trying to refute it – all – in front of him.

In fact, if it hadn't been for Manizeh+ Amaar taking turns to initiate small talk amongst the group ranging to keep conversations going on general topics or everything Fiji, and Aman's talk references of their childhood days at the orphanage+ talks of his wife, Meera, to keep it all lightened up in between – the atmosphere would have surely caught some sort of a flame on its own – that's how potent the vibe was – in the air.

And,it had also been gaining more crackling potency because of the way Arnav was shooting Samarth a steely gaze every now and then in the middle – when he(Samarth), as planned – was showering Khushi with his exclusive attention....in the process of distracting her from the group convo in between...or to just look away from having a eye contact moment with Arnav across – or just brushing his hand on her arm in between casual chatter – because Samarth had obviously seated himself beside Khushi, which kind off brought him directly within Arnav's vision off Fire...

But somehow, due to the candid nature of Amaar+ Manizeh+ Aman + their casual conversations – the dinner carried on. To the strange discovery of Amaar, Samath and Manizeh – Aman in the group was all cool as a cucumber as if he'd expected this kind off an intense first encounter between the two – anyway. As if..this was exactly...how Aman had expected it to be...which only led to more confusion in Amaar, Samarth and Manizeh's mind – collectively but then they thought – they'd never really seen the two (A&K)in one frame in real time, ever before vs where as Aman had grown up beside the two in their days together at the orphanage for nine long years. But they still wondered had it always been the intensity in the vibe in between the two????

They all hear – Arnav ask Khushi politely now , if she wanted some tobasco to add to her rissotto incase it wasn't spicy enough for her – and Khushi being on her mission, even though was going to pick up the pepper bottle for herself, went on to deny the same – despite everyone at her end in the room knowing – that she loved Tobasco, still to go with everything Italian she ate.

That makes Manizeh whisper to Amaar now through all the brain storming going on in her head too – " Amaar, this is freaking crazy, super intense this vibe is between the two, so much so I feel like I'll break into a sweat if I continue sitting here around them – like boy, its crazy of Arnav to remember all of this anyway for most of her these preferences developed after she had moved right? to our side? These are all details they'd probably talked about at video calls – but – he's totally made it way too obvious – in here – with those gestures that he is back.... for her, for good. I know Khushi can sense it, too – its irking her insane, which is why she just continues to spite him back..."

Amaar whispers back at that – " exactly, and I guess, she's only adding more fuel to the fire...literally, seeing them together in one frame, feels like – the two are just destined magnets – I can sense the crackling friction in the air - so much so that yeah, I could break into a sweat too – although I do think its Bhai – whose right in the front row of the ring of fire – like almost like ASR could say Dracarys any moment and send dragon fire right at him......."

That makes Manizeh shoot him an amused look – " did you really just quote a games of thrones reference right now Amaar? I can't really crack up in the moment, for all of me wants to just ask Aman, how is it that he isn't finding all this intensity weird at all...like look at him, biting down his food, as if the sight he was seeing was the most normal thing in the world, and isn't something that is happening after so many years..."

Amaar wasn't going to let his lady love wonder at that and as they catch Arnav's eyes shooting daggers at Samarth again for he'd just interrupted Khushi by her name, before Arnav could get her attention for a talk – he whispers to ask Aman with a slight nudge – "dude? Can I ask you something??"

Aman nods – looking up at the puzzled faces of Amaar and Manizeh and hears Amaar ask upfront – " are the two – always like this??? I mean – had it always been this way in the past?Like when they are in one frame? With all this crackling intensity in the air????"

Aman shoots Arnav a side look at that as he's gulping down his food trying to mask his fumes – while continuing to keep staring at Khushi and Samarth, with the aim to get Khushi to look back up at him first. You know how we as humans can just sense when someone is watching us with an intent gaze and we often tend to just look up? Yup, that was what his bestie was in the middle of doing. And he could sense, that Khushi could sense everything, but was obviously not reacting – on purpose. A sight he was quite happy to see actually. For it told Aman – that there was no way that all their history had been lost to the wings of time. And so he says now shrugging casually to Amaar and Manizeh – " yup, its always been that way, put them in one frame – and the air gets crackling intense – ever since childhood actually – if one is around the other – its always been obvious that the other is going to be the prime subject of complete attention...from the other..."

Amaar whispers - " is that why this seems so normal to you??"

Aman nods – " yes, ofcourse, I'v seen it for so many years in real time while our years together at the orphanage, and then ofcourse also so many times on screen after when they'd talk during their long distance relationship,"and he bites back his smile now which makes Manizeh ask in a whisper moving forward – "okay....but...why did you bite back on your smile, Aman, just now?"

Aman chuckles and whispers – " because, this very moment also is reminding me off one of the moments from our time at our canteen back at school, in our teen days, I think it was just a couple of months before Khushi left for Fiji.."

Amaar whispers curious – "What moment??"

Aman explains in a whisper – " this is just their thing.It's a thing of the past. Nothing new about it. Every time they'd be in the middle of a banter – and if a meal came on next – Arnav would always try to make it up to her by like helping her with her favourite stuff, serve it to her himself etc, and she'd just deny – to spite back at him – in the moment – it was a gesture to express her frustration at him in the moment then – for yup even though she would be irked at him due to the banter or whatever, she also couldn't stay without talking to him, he knew that – she knew that – they both knew that – and Arnav would often always let her have her way until she'd calm down...obviously..."

Amaar and Manizeh's eyes widen at that – " whatttttt? So you mean, what we are seeing right now – is literally a repeat telecast..??"

Aman nods smiling – " exactly, the only difference is that we are just years forward in time – either ways - I am so glad to see this – for that means even though so much has changed, apparently – somethings just remain – just like their bond did – apparently in the shadows for all these years...but it remained.....from where I see it, this from Khushi, is a testimony that there surely got to be some pent up anger in her subconscious mind somewhere – for Arnav. Logically, consciously perhaps – she's convinced herself – that she's not angry at him over what happened in between of them..with a practical justification...but the subconscious mind, Amaar , Manizeh – has a power of its own, a very potent power – that often comes up and takes over- on moments such as this...,"he pauses to refer to Arnav and Khushi.

Amaar and Manizeh jump to Khushi's defence almost instantly – " Well, even if that's the case – you can't really blame her...right?? it was his fault..right? all those years ago, he blocked her out. Remember???"

And even before Aman can say anything to that in Arnav's defence – they all hear Arnav's voice fall into their ears as he asks Aman straight up – " what's the context of discussion brother? What you all talking about??,"the hint of rock solid irritation is obviously cemented in his voice.

Why?

For, Arnav was obviously trying to get Khushi's attention through his gaze for the last two minutes over – but she hadn't looked up and was instead smiling away at Samarth – in a private conversation – so he thought he might as well gesture his bestie to come to his rescue but when he looked up at him – he discovered Aman being in a whispering conversation with Amaar and Manizeh. Why was everyone on the table talking in whispers?? And what was Samarth saying to Khushi anyway – over and over again??

Arnav, so badly wished to just hold khushi by her hand, and take her away from the table – out for a private talk – just him and her. He obviously sensed – he just needed to get her to scream her lungs out at him perhaps – first???????

Aman says now to Arnav covering up catching the gesture of his eye almost instantly – " nothing brother, I was just telling Manizeh and Amaar that they must make it to the concert tomorrow...I mean, I did hand Manizeh the passes already too – I was just in the middle of getting confirmation from their end.."

Arnav looks at Manizeh at that and requests, politely with a genuine smile – " please, do come...Manizeh...Amaar...we would love to have you in the audience.."

Manizeh can't help but answer to that out of genuine courtesy along with Amaar – " we will surely, try to make it ASR... I mean we do appreciate your talent..we both are a big fan of your singing, so...yup...we'll give it our best shot"

And Arnav nods at the two at that and thanks them and just as he looks straight – he finds Khushi finally looking up from her talk with Samarth and Arnav is finally able to catch her gaze again as he asks – " you are coming, right? Khushi??"

Khushi was obviously aware of the context – for even though – she was pretending to be busy in talk with Samarth on and off like she had been through dinner and Samarth had just been checking in on her out of genuine concern – her sense of hearing was obviously also wandering around every word leaving Arnav's mouth. Just like her insides had also succumbed to being melted puddle at the sheer intensity of his gaze on her all throughout – despite she doing quite the bit to spite him. She had obviously been doing her best to keep her casual cover on and for once, she was thrilled that she was acing it only because of the intensity of friction – she had been spotting in Arnav's eyes – in the process.

Khushi was still in no mood to give him even a slight reflection of the chaos of her emotions within.She says now causally, taking in the last couple of bites on her plate, looking straight at Arnav – "don't know, about that, ASR, I mean, I do have this hectic dive schedule tomorrow – six deep dives on the rooster for me – I might be tired – by the end of it all – ill see how I feel after? K? and then decide? Thank you for the passes...though...I mean...that's really nice of you..to get us..these passes...,"and she looks at Aman's way at that as she says – " thank you Aman, I am sure you helped arranged the same, last minute.."

Aman admits honestly with a shrug – "honestly, I didn't. Khushi...Arnav did. He asked for these special passes – from the concert organisers – himself, wasn't me. I mean he could route it through me, for I am his business manager, but he didn't..."

And that obviously surprises Khushi yet again and she tries to sip on her drink to process it in silence. Samarth shoots Arnav a look as he asks – " really? you arranged it yourself, ASR??"

Arnav nods politely at that despite the envy fumes within although he was sure his fiery gaze was conveying all that his words couldn't to Samarth – anyway but for now – he wasn't going to say anything further on that for he wanted to ask Khushi a bit that had been on his mind, now that she had mentioned her dive schedule – "hmm,so yeah, since you have that hectic diving schedule, see how you feel after – k?Khushi? I really hope you can make it.Also, Khushi, I'v been meaning to ask you something?? so all these dives you doing tomorrow, is it – going to be open circuit? Or closed-circuit diving? I mean I read it up – how the rebreather in closed circuit diving as efficient it can be can be with its gas mixture release, it can be risky too – is that true?"

THAT OBVIOUSLY – STARTLES – Khushi's mind off the edge completely. She couldn't believe what she'd just heard from Arnav and so she asks gulping her sip down her eyes widening – " what?????????? did I just hear you right? you read up on our tech on scuba diving? Open circuit vs closed circuit????? You????? read it up?"

Samarth, Manizeh, Amaar – exchange a shocked look yet again. Only Aman was grinning to himself like an ape, wishing Meera was here to see the shock on Khushi's face or the content emotion on Arnav's at finally being able to throw Khushi's mind off its calculated grid with that.

Arnav nods now, loving the shock in Khushi's eyes and he says shrugging sipping on his drink – " ofcourse, I read it all up..Khushi...in fact I read a lot more...maybe we can talk about it...eventually..."

And Khushi feels herself ask on reflex before her mind can even control the words – " why?? Why would you even read it up?? Its not like you are ever diving?? You don't even like to swim in deep waters – or wait – has that changed???????"

Arnav admits now biting back on his smile – " well, no, that stays the same.Khushi. anyways, I read it up because...I wanted to understand in detail, how the breathing system underwater works for you guys – okay? of course, I want you safe.Always.So, will you answer me now??which system are you using tomorrow? Open circuit or closed??"

Khushi wanted to answer him – but she was too shaken within for her neurons to get the words out. She is glad Manizeh picked out on the bit of her being stumped momentarily so she lets Manizeh answers on her behalf in the moment – "hmm...so...to answer you Arnav....we will use the open circuit breathing system tomorrow, on all our dives...for the reef zone we'll be capturing - its just within 30-40 metres reach.....and well, since you asked – we do use the closed circuit – one – only in the cases when we go like really deep down...beyond 100 meters...for the closed circuit rebreather kinda works on the tech of recycling the air we breathe back to us more efficiently, actually leads to lot less carry load/efficient consumption which helps us to stay deeper for longer durations...for hours at a stretch..in open circuit – we come up and above for frequent breaks...because the oxygen tank runs out..needs refill etc....so...depending on the research in context...and depth of dive – that decision is made.....like from here we go to Tasmania – and there – closed circuit – is what we will be using...."and she pauses –as Samarth states to Arnav on reflex as the genuine concern in his frame over the safety angle is that obvious – " well, to be honest, you aren't the only one squirming in concern over that ASR. We all kinda fret a little, when these two,"he adds gesturing to Khushi and Manizeh – " vanish under their water for longer hours....on the closed circuit system..specially...for you are right...as efficient it is..its the one that can probably malfunction more..."

Arnav nods at Samarth at that for once fury taking a backseat and concern popping up – " really?what? okay – I gotta read up more, then...I didn't come across the malfunctioning bit...on closed circuit..,"And he looks at Khushi to ask again concern etched all over his face – " are you really going to be using that in Tasmania? In days from now?Khushi? why not the open circuit – if its more safer?"

Khushi was already feeling all claustrophic within at the onset of the high tide off racy emotions and in the process to just cover it up she just ends up snapping back at Arnav at that – "because, well, as Manizeh exclaimed – open circuit is not practical for dives beyond 100 meters deep – k?and our dive in Tasmania will be about 120 meters deep...its just more efficient...k?and ofcourse, I have trained well for this...trained freaking hard....so, are you like seriously doubting my diving skills at my job right now? or doubting that I wouldn't know how to freaking efficiently operate my own breathing support apparatus????????"

Arnav could have banter-d back at that but in the moment he just chose not too – because well it wasn't that he was doubting her diving skills and so he says honestly, sincerely – " no, no, not at all...Khushi..don't think that ..please? for that's not what I meant..at all...I mean, I am sure you are excellent with what you do...I was just concerned...that's all..."

Khushi just stares back at him appalled anyway straight in his eye as she states getting all defensive– " whatever...don't worry, I can watch my back at work..."

And given that everyone else around – saw the eyelock in between the two tense up immense – Manizeh says now with the mission to cool the air – " ummmm...anyways...so...Aman...ASR...we will try to make it to the concert tomorrow...6 dives is nothing for us..we'v done 8 in a day too some itmes...on hectic schedules...and we'v gone out after...right Khushi??"

And Khushi shoots Manizeh a surprised look at that as if to ask.Whose side you on? And Manizeh just gives her the look.Your's obviously

Samarth is just observing on in an intense silence.

Khushi feels like – she needs some fresh air right very now – to just get herself re-centered again and even though she feels Arnav's gaze just be xraying her through – she thinks its better to excuse herself from the table – for the sake of her own sanity. She's just about to get up when she hears Amaar state suddenly – " Anyway...lets get off this closed circuit diving topic, before it makes me lose my head in concern too – so – ASR...our bad...we forgot to wish you congratulations..."

And that makes Arnav shoot Amaar a puzzled look along with the rest too as Arnav asks – " huh? For what??,"glad that Khushi had stationed herself in the seat again out of curiosity.

Amaar explains – "well, for the amazing hits your recent loads on youtube have been...and for of course...for that development in between Syna and You...its all over the news...you both make a good couple...really..you sing in so much sync too...so yeah...great for you..,"he pauses. Amaar had obviously jumped on stating the same – for he just felt like he'd better bring up the context for Khushi's sanity in the moment for she was not going to ask surely. He knew her close enough – right?? And everything he had witnessed in the last one hour – had been enough to drive him to ask the same, now.

Khushi shoots Amaar a – What the? Look?? Can't believe you just said that upfront. Amaar gives her the look – I just had too. Manizeh shoots her the look – I am glad he did. And Samarth just sits on silently gazing in between Arnav and Khushi, thinking Khushi might excuse herself off the table any minute now...

Arnav had exchanged a look of relief with Aman prior as he'd heard that from Amaar deciding in his head – that out of the two brothers Amaar was his favourite for his brining this up now was surely going to help him clear the air and after – gesturing to Aman that he'd say what they'd decided on – in that last minute before Khushi came – he had finally looked up at Khushi and her body language had relayed to him that she was going to excuse herself from the table any minute – and so he says instantly before she can get up looking straight at her and not Amaar – "thanks...Amaar, for that...but I am afraid I can only accept half off those congratulatory wishes...just the wishes for my latest uploads being hit..for yeah..that's the part that is true.... The rest is just a rumour...I am not dating...Syna...it's all media gossip...in fact I have been single, for a very long time...actually not just very long. A very very long time...,"he finishes with his gaze boring through Khushi, with the aim to read some sort off a reflection of reaction in her eye.

That from Arnav shocks and frazzles the hell out of Khushi, and the rest and she obviously decides not to react on that because it was her priority to get her insides from shaking in crazy anticipation at a fresh tsunami of emotions within – first.The emotions she had to mask.Did Arnav just say – he had been single for a long long time? He wasn't dating – Syna????????

She hears Manizeh and Amaar ask on her behalf instantly – " really??"

Arnav doesn't answer for he was busy giving Khushi the look. React,to that.Will you please? She obviously doesn't.

Aman chips in now on behalf of his friend – "its true, the rest online are just baseless rumours...in fact all those link ups mentioned in media bytes, ever since he hit stardom years ago...are technically all false. There's no truth in it at all,he's just been a workaholic for years now...ever after Rabba Ve, his first album hit the stands.He has had no time for anything else at all...Meera and me – have nicknamed him the working machine, for a reason...."

Samarth ends up asking on reflex this time around observing Khushi paling into a white sheet at the vibe off the gaze coming from Arnav at that – " wait...so do you mean to say...you haven't dated any of these women, you'v been linked with in all these years???"

And Arnav says to that irriated, that it was Samarth asking him this and not Khushi, because for some reason she'd just recoiled in shock – " yeah, Samarth, you heard me right, I haven't...of course...do you actually think what the tabloids write is true? Well if it were – I'd be a solid definition of a freaking playboy...which I most certainly am not...I have been freaking single..for years...dammit...,"and he ends up asking Khushi on reflex straight up,sure the desire to have her know this upfront was evident in his face now – " Khushi, have you been reading all of this?? I am so sorry...that you had too read it...but...don't tell me...you'v been believing it?? look, get this straight...it is not true...okay?? none of it is...Cmon...you know me enough to just presume...that?? right? please tell me, you haven't paid much heed to what this paparazzi circus keeps coming up with every now and then, right??

And even though Khushi was fighting a tsunami of emotion within at that revelation – she says casually using her napkin on the side to wipe the corner of her mouth – "why are you explaining yourself ?? like....did I even ask you too?? as if I care....it's your life...ASR,"and it is right then she says getting up – " excuse me..everyone...I need to freshen up...,"and with that she just races out.

Manizeh follows instantly shooting everyone a casual smile – " I think I wana freshen up too..,"when in reality obviously even she just felt she'd been hit way too hard in her head with that. If Arnav, had been single for a long time? And if all the intensity they'd been sensing off him for her – stood as potently for him - than why did he appear now? and not earlier? What piece were they missing in the puzzle??

Seeing – Khushi head out that way and Manizeh follow obviously makes Arnav look at Samarth and Amaar next, as he asks for confirmation – " she's been reading it all...and believing it too right?? she truly presumes, the worse off me??? that I'v just been changing partners that soon????????"

Amaar states honestly, confused still but he was glad he'd triggered this – " well, you didn't really deny any of those rumours...ever...ASR..so..."

Samarth chips in now silently observing Arnav's shaken frame – " why didn't you ever refute the rumours publically, if it weren't true?"

And Arnav states honestly – " well, because, iv never really paid any heed to it myself , for my focus has always been my work, and I always thought those who know me/or have known me closely at some point in my life, would just understand that its rubbish, and know that projection...surely cannot be that off me...apparently I was wrong??for the one I was once closest too, surely presumes the worst...already.."

Samarth states at that – "well, can you blame her? You were the one who shut her out for a similar reason...off preferring a real time relationship over long distance...so..."

And Arnav can't help but close his eyes at that fighting a sheer bout of pain within.Ofcourse – that one freaking projected lie was coming back to bite him. He is about to get up from his chair in the attempt to go after Khushi but Aman stops him as he says gesturing him to hold his calm – " give..her ...a ...while...k? it will be better that way..."

Arnav nods in dismay – at that – and it is right then – his phone rings with Armaan's call and he picks it up – glad for the momentary distraction...

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Simultaneously - In The Washroom

Khushi was finding it extremely difficult to just find that re-center point of calm within for the last three minutes or so gaping at Manizeh all speechless all the whilst – by also taking in her very own shaken reflection in the mirror. Manizeh was by her side – just asking her to take deep breathes – to relax.

Khushi states now flabbergasted fanning herself from both hands on either sides of her face – " how can I relax??? Manizeh?? When he keeps hitting me with one meteor after the other, back-to-back??? you heard him back there right????? on that????? like as if – this last one hour hasn't been a havoc for me within....did he freaking just claim that to my face – that he's been single for a long time? and say sorry, to me, that I had to be reading it?? in the next breathe?? Ugh – ugh – that's just confused me inside out – like if there was even a tiny miny cell which wasn't loaded in confusion has surely just blasted with it...under impact....for ..all...I...I..,"And she pauses hoping Manizeh would understand.

Manizeh sighs at that brushing her hair in support – " I know, now all you wana ask him – define long? Like the exact duration to that long???"

Khushi nods helpless – " exactly, and I am kind off flabbergasted at my very own mind for wanting to know this...I almost asked him that you know, for a second – before well my sensibility managed to return...thank god...for that..,"and she just pauses to look at her very reflection in the mirror for a second and just as she sees her own eyes staring back at her with shades of deep overwhelming emotions in them, she realises that she'd felt so much in the span of this one hour over with Arnav in front of her - that she hadn't felt at all in the last seven years collectively and that surely meant that she just needed to accept the bare truth to not just herself but to Manizeh too placing her hands on either sides of the sink – " it's true...it just stands true...no point not accepting it...or delaying it...I see what my eyes say to me...Manizeh..."

Manizeh asks – "what's true??"

Khushi sighs but accepts – "that it will always be him. For me, it will just always be him. The past him, the present him. Whatever version – it will always be Him. God help me....dammit....and it would have stayed that way say if he wasn't single...too...and now that he's gone out and dropped that bomb on me....I just feel like I need to figure this out for myself....,"and she pauses as she looks sideways at Manzieh – " you know why I am saying this?right?? you'v seen me in the last hour – all he needed was to do just come in front off me – and I am undone, within. Completely. Its so freaking complicated, twisted, in between of us – all our history still hangs in the vibe - apparently and by all that he's been saying – it feels like the two of us have serious score to settle, and I think I wana deal with it in my way, as in on my own accord, I do not wish to involve Samarth in this going forward, Arnav's been shooting him daggers anyway, so yeah – I'v noticed that his presence around me is a catalyst for him – you get what I mean don't you Manizeh? Its going to be a crossfire in between of Arnav and me for a bit – but it's me who needs to figure things out,I cannot involve Samarth going forward...it will just hurt him...and I know he wanted clarity, and I think I will give it to him...tonight...itself...if he hasn't picked it on himself..."

Manizeh nods in an instant understanding at that sighing – " well, you are right about that...I guess...it's a freaking intense tug of war going on in between you two with just your constant intense looks...theres so much unsaid hanging in the air – that only the two of you can sort out...,"and as her phone beeps in her hand – she says looking at text – " and don't worry, Khushi...Samarth understood already, that it would always be just Him...for you..he just texted that in our group on whatsapp..."

Khushi asks now partly relieved – " really?"and she heads to her chat to see the same and see's the text.

Samarth : Looks like me being around you, and showering you with extra attention for an hour was a catalyst enough. Khushi. Its undone him, enough.It has undone, you too – right?For you, It will just always be him – I can see that. I haven't seen you tremble in so much emotion ever and get to hide it in the process – in the long time I have known you on account of anyone else.Ever. Don't you worry, about me at all. I am glad, I got the clarity – I seeked. I hope the two of you discover that too. Figure things out for yourself, please? Do yourself that solid favour, please? Also, fair that I admit – that he kind off looks way too disturbed at the mere thought that you were actually believing on all that you read in the pappz, its hit him hard, he actually asked Amaar and me after you walked out – Did she really believe the worse of me??

As Khushi, finishes reading that bit in the group,she types.

Her : thanks, Samarth. I am so sorry, k? about this? I don't know what else to say. I didn't expect this to happen, I mean even I didn't know this was what it would happen on our way here..

Samarth texts : I get it, Khushi. Relax. None of us saw that coming. And I guess, neither did both of you. History just remains, if its meant too.You can't help it..also,I think this is more to do about with the bit I mentioned. That he really does regret falling apart and wants a second chance or something. Now seeing what you wana do about it is upto you obviously. I just recommend you face it – upfront – about time – k?

Amaar texts : About time...indeed.Also, Arnav was about to come after you actually.Aman stopped him, and then he got a work call, he's on it right now...he's literally genuinely as shaken as you are. I think meeting you – finally has truly been a huge deal for him – just like it has been for you. Now he's mentioned being single for long time and stuff - so the rest of his side of the tale and how's and why's...I guess only he can tell...I wonder why Aman keeps mustering..there is more than what meets the eye...over and over again...he just said that to me again...

Khushi sighs at that as she looks at Manzieh who was obviously reading it all in her phone too – " exactly...like... what am I to presume of that now???"

Manizeh just shakes her head at that – " nah, from experiencing the last hour...I'd say, don't presume anything anymore on Arnav's accord,Khushi. Just ask him, he will answer. Upfront...I mean, who knows what kinda meteor will that be...but well, about time you collide...you do realise what this is?right? just pent up stuff of all these years.... Bubbling up to the surface from either of your sides...if the two of you don't address it anymore, it will just become a wildfire...eventually...handle it before it just wrecks and destroys you both within....please?"

Khushi nods at that as she sighs before pulling Manizeh into a hard hug – " I will....but I didn't know it would come to this? When I was on my way here...manzieh, I truly didn't...know...that this could be that one defining hour...in my present...,"and she pulls back and sighs after taking a couple of deep breathes – "anyway...ill figure it out...ill handle this meteoric return of Arnav...as long as I am able to take these little breaks in between to find my calm...you know, this is where our profession really helps us right??"

Manizeh nods – " because when we dive, we are aware of every breathe we take, of the very essence of life, being mindful and present and being just fully aware...almost gives us the awareness benefits of meditation...,"and she admits – " you were a little harsh on him with that snap though, Khushi. The man was genuinely concerned...that's all...it was so obvious...he could have...snapped back...but..."

Khushi nods at that with a sigh – " but he didn't..."

Manizeh says with the aim to lighten up her mood- " you know what did Amaar say to me whilst Arnav was just giving Samarth the fiery gaze whilst he was in talk with you??"

Khushi asks – " what?"

Manzieh winks – "as if he'd just say dracarys at Samarth and send dragon fire right at him.."

Khushi can't help but chuckle at that – " he said that??and you didn't burst into giggles??"

Manzieh nods – " I wanted to, but I couldn't because of all that crackling intense vibe radiating from the two of you...talk to him...maybe?? Alone?? But only if you ready too..."

Khushi looks back at her reflection in the mirror as she says – " yeah, am ready too...now...,"and it is right then – her phone rings with her Mum's call and Manizeh asks – " will you take it?? as in I know you will take it, but will you tell Ellie aunty? About Arnav right now??"

Khushi shakes her head at that – " nah, not yet. She'd just worry. She knows the affect it could have on me. Maybe, later??K?,"And as Manizeh nods at that, Khushi finally takes the call knowing that hearing her Mum on the other end – was just going to be that extra cushion of support and strength in the moment.

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

Ten Minutes Later

At the Patio – Outside – Adjoining the Private Dining Area

Arnav, steps out into the patio, thanking his – gods, that he'd finally got this opportunity to get to talk to Khushi on a one-on-one basis – rather than having Samarth hover around her again.

His work call had momentarily given him some distraction and had helped him re-align his thoughts.Yes, as disturbing as it was to now finally know that Khushi had truly been presuming the worst of him due to media projection – he couldn't really hold it against her – for well from her point of view – she kind of did have a premise to go back too. He'd returned to the table after the work call – feeling calmer – but when he hasn't spotted Khushi or Samarth there – just Amaar, Manizeh and Aman busy in chatter with Aman – his first dreaded thought had been - had the two left?? Already?? Together?? That had Khushi left with Samarth - without saying bye?

But then, Manizeh had confirmed upon him asking Khushi's whereabouts that she was out here on the patio on a call and Samarth had stepped out towards the lobby out to be on the phone too, and he felt the waves of relief rush through, obviously. Seizing the opportunity, he'd made his way out here, gesturing to all that he was heading to talk to Khushi – and the three had nodded before Aman started the conversation about ordering desserts for all.

Walking further steps into the patio – towards the far end off the level – Arnav instantly spots Khushi. She was standing on the further end – busy on the phone – the breeze was having the time of its life running its course through her hair and as she kept holding them to the sides to keep them in place – Arnav felt he didn't know if there could be a more mesmerising sight for his heart to behold.

Even the twinkling stars in the night sky, and the lights from the Sydney harbour bridge and the city buzz around – didn't make a competitive view – in context off comparison.And somehow, just the sight off her being in near distance – yet again – continued to create a emotional havoc within.

He continues to walk up closer and he almost reaches behind her, but she is too engrossed in her call to notice his presence.So he just stands, and seizes the opportunity to soak in the sight off her.He hears her say into the phone now lovingly – " yeah, daddy...you get that plan going? Alright?? I mean, its going to be a freaking blast with just mum, you and me, before my project starts in Bali...yup...I can't wait to see you already...I love you...yes...daddy...I will sleep well...and be alert on my dives with full focus...k? now go to sleep you two?? Isn't it like bed time for you in Fiji???yea...okay..give the phone to Mum...yeah...I told you..we all having a good time here...yeah..daddy...Amaar and Samarth return Monday.."

Arnav feels his insides freeze a little on reflex at the discovery of Rajesh Maan being on the other line, for he is instantly hit with the memory of that phone call from him years ago. But then, as he continues to hear Khushi talking to him so fondly – he can't help but the warm emotions in his heart take over. It truly was heart-warming to hear Khushi talk to her adoptive parents this lovingly and fondly in the present too...

About a minute later, as he sees Khushi hang up after bidding bye to her Mum on phone and turn around with the intention of probably walking back in – their eyes meet instantly – as she spots him instantly and she stills in her footsteps – on reflex.

Everything around hazes – again – now that the two were finally alone sans the presence off anyone around – on this patio. Each of their eyes...once again...refusing to be the first to give up – on the look away battle...

Khushi knew why he was here, obviously. To talk one on one.But she asks – a minute later – keeping her unwavering gaze locked with his – " what you doing here?????"

Arnav keeps his gaze locked with hers as he says leaning against the railing now – "enjoying my view....obviously..Khushi.."

Khushi feels her insides go into a gooey mess at that obviously.Damm, the audacity of him. Ofcourse, she understood what he was implying, but she decided to shrug it off as she finally looked away at the Sydney Harbour Bridge view upfront walking upto the railing too before she say's softly her eyes gazing at the view upfront – " well, it's really nice here...great view.."

Arnav admits raking his eyes all over her again from his spot – " I wasn't talking about the Sydney Harbour view...Khushi...but you know that...don't you? you just decided to over-ride the processing of that in your head right??anyways, I am glad you like the view here...I thought you'd like it..which is why I booked here...water is so you...I knew...you'd love any place...over- looking...the waters...great food too?right??"

Khushi doesn't reply to that for a second, and continues to look at the Sydney Harbour bridge and just like that as memories of the past flood in - before she could even control, the words slipped out her mouth – " I would have enjoyed...the...breeze...back at marine drive in Mumbai..as much...or that Vada pav at Chowpatty you used to keep mentioning about in the past...your favourite one.....you know...I don't need fancy...but...yeah..nonetheless...the dinner was good....Arna..v...it's a nice spot..."

Arnav takes a step closer towards at her at that his heart racing to the skies at her mentioning that.Wasn't he just talking about it to Aman before she came? He asks now – feeling all emotionally vulnerable himself – " you remember??,"and sees her nod her head in silence as she continues to look at the view before she asks softly – " do you still love Vada Pav?as much??

All he wanted was for her to look at him, but he didn't want to break the moment so he said instead – " ofcourse, I do, I eat it all the time...same place...thank god for swiggy...,"and he pauses – to just take in a deep breathe because the vibe had just gotten all emotional in between the two and he says – "thank you, for dropping the ASR...finally...Khushi.."

She whispers softly continuing to look at the twinkling stars in the sky – "I was doing it to irk you..."

Arnav nods – " I know...it was working...,"and he hears her sigh at that – " I know...it was...,"and she pauses before whispering – "also, I am sorry, I shouldn't have snapped back that way, over the diving bit – I get it – your reaction is only normal just like everyone in the family...daddy..still freaks out...quite a bit...I apologize...k?"

Arnav gulps down his emotion at the mention of Rajesh Maan but decides to not let the memory of his haunting call disrupt his present moment and he says instantly – " don't apologize...please?? Khushi??,"and he asks on reflex a second later – " how are they? I overheard your talk a little to be honest??"

Khushi asks keeping her eyes stationed on a couple of stars – " mom and Dad? You mean??"

"Yup.."

"they doing great...Fiji is ahead in time..its like sleeping time for them..daddy has this habbit...he won't sleep...until he talks to me...so yeah...that's what that call was about...,"she finishes.

Arnav replies taking a step closer glad that she wasn't moving further away – "that's sweet of him. He still really dotes on you..doesn't he??"

Khushi nods – " still does...both of them...do.."

Arnav double takes that flux of emotion within again – " so happy to know that...,"and Khushi says –" so sorry...k? for the snap?again?"

And Arnav says – " don't bother...I know what it was about...its been an overwhelming..last hour..I guess..."

Khushi whispers – " overwhelming, indeed....,"and she hears him ask instantly next – "so tell me...Khushi...how does it feel though? meeting me after ages?finally?"

And Khushi says on reflex at that – " as if I were hit by a series of meteors....obviously..."

And Arnav can't help but chuckle at that as he asks – " really? a series? How many meteors? A hundred?"

Khushi musters – " a thousand perhaps...just so you know...I'v named you Meteor Singh raizada in my head now..."

Arnav chuckles at that – " really?? have you??,"and when she nods – he admits in a whisper too – " only fair enough I admit – that I somewhat feel like – my worlds spun off its axis – at finally seeing you - Khushi..,"And when she still won't look at him or react to that - he asks now – " hey...why won't you look at me??Khushi??Look at me...please???????"

Khushi wasn't looking at him in the moment – because well the moment of finally being alone with him in real time – after all these years – was obviously reminding her of their last alone moments in real time – on the terrace of their orphanage, where they'd spent hours just embracing and kissing each other – because – she was to leave for FIJi, the next day. And she obviously didn't want him to know that – or read it in her eyes. The view was the perfect cover.She says now asking her insides to speed up the process of pulling up a mask on her eyes – "perhaps – I am just mesmerised by this view...Arnav..."

And as she says that Arnav admits sure she could sense all the intensity in his voice – " fair enough, for I am as mesmerised by my view too..."

And that obviously makes Khushi look at him startled and as she finds herself shiver under that gaze of his and she says now – "okay...stop...just stop looking at me like that...dammit...you'v been giving me that look ever since..I walked in...I don't know what to make of that...so just stop....giving me that look..."

Arnav doesn't stop obviously but his gaze notches up in intensity instead as he asks – "why must I stop??"

Khushi doesn't say anything to that and just looks away at the view upfront to catch on her breathe again.Why? Coz, Meteor Singh Raizada – was looking way to handsome to her eye...in the moment...

She hears him state suddenly now , taking a step closer to her – " he likes you....Samarth...he still freaking likes you....doesnt he? Perhaps he always did?you know that don't you? it's so freaking obvious. Just the way he looks at you...you know this right???"

Khushi says to that with a casual shrug without looking at him – " yes...I know....k??,"and she hears Arnav ask with another upfront tone – " and do you?? do you like him? Khushi??? who is he to you???"

That tone. Irked her in the moment. Yes, she had decided to not use the initial plan in context and she wasn't going to but that didn't mean she couldn't still get back at him with – " what is it to you...Arnav??? its my personal life...stay out of it..please??"

She hears him exclaim – instantly – "what the hell?? I will not accept that answer, Khushi. I want to know. I need to know...you know about my personal status right?? I made that very clear over the dinner table before you excused yourself..?? Right??"

And that makes her finally turn around to look at him straight in the eye as she says with her casual cover up on – "but I didn't ask ...remember? It was a piece of information, you very conveniently shared...Arnav...but...I didn't ask....,"and she finally looks away at the view and musters under her breathe – " like as if.... I even... care..."

And Arnav loses his patience at that as he says – " oh really?? look at my face when you say that dammit...look at me...and tell me you don't care...,"and with that he finally steps in towards her closer and holds her by the arm gently to turn her around to make him look at her straight – a move which startles her immense – or perhaps it was the sudden electric rush of current through the vibe and both their bodies – at the feel of just touching one another – after years – that leads to a flux of fresh vulnerability into Khushi but she holds onto her mask with great difficulty as she whispers to Arnav – who literally just stood as hypnotised staring deep into her eyes – " don't...please?? don't look at me this...way...Arnav??? as if..."

And Arnav whispers too shaken with vulnerability again his gaze searching her now trembling face that was the testimony that it could lead to that mask off her eyes any moment – " as if...what??dammit?????"

And Khushi states on reflex still pretty much caught into the hypnosis of the moment – " as if...damm you...you know what I mean.."

And Arnav now just nudges on her arm gently more so that she was closer – all of his senses now going into another zone of crazy vulnerability all together at finally being this close to her after ages.Last , he was this close to her in real time was when he'd kissed her madly for hours before shed left for Fiji. He was a teenager then.And even though he was 25 years old now – his insides in the present couldn't help but melt with emotion because the fact remained that she really was the only one he had ever kissed.Ever touched. Imagined kissing a zillion times in his head in during the time of their 4 years long distance relationship. Imagined doing so much more in his head to just her. Even all these years , in his mind, in his intimate imaginations – it had just been her – for him.

Back then, They'd often talked about this moment on video calls back then in moments of vulnerable intimate conversations during their long distance relationship that what would it be like finally experience of being with each other intimately– and he was sure in the present - she could most surely could sense that it was all coming back to haunt him now as he stared into her eyes deep still, content with the bit that she stood frozen up close and so with a gentle clutch on her arm he finally says – "ask me anything dammit...but do not ask me to hold back while I look at you...please? You don't want me to look at you..as if...You are all I see??? Is that what you hinted prior????? But it's the freaking truth dammit....hear it...dammit....You are all I see...Khushi....you are all I freaking saw...You are all I freaking....see....how can you ask me to not look at you..this way???are you crazy? Do you have any idea..how long have I been waiting for this moment??dammit??to finally see you?? in front off me?????????????how can you even ask me to... not look at you..this way?????? just don't ask me off that , please? I will not be able to oblige...,"and as he finishes that he sees a fresh cloud of confusion come into her eyes – instantly and just as she is about to say something – her phone buzzes and disrupts their intense moment – as Khushi just instantly steps back and away from him - completely startled much to Arnav's dismay as he fights back a groan.

Khushi's obviously momentarily frazzled and looks into her phone with fumbling hands and when she sees it was her alarm – she says now shuttitng it off - to Arnav trying to compose herself in the process – " I am sorry...I have to go soon...Arnav...I had this alarm on..for I really need to get back in time. I need a decent amount of sleep – it's a massive dive day tomorrow...I cannot not be focussed...due to obvious safety reasons..and we are supposed to board at the harbour at 430 am...which means..I need to be up to get set by 330 am..."

And that does top up on priority for Arnav in the moment obviously. He obviously wanted Khushi to be rested well before her work tomorrow. Under those deep waters there surely was no scope of errors.And so he says now nodding – " yeah...okay...I understand....but hey..whilst I walked out here..they were ordering dessert...can you stay for a quick bite?? Maybe??"

Khushi nods – aiming to just that electric moment in between of then slide off her mind/heart – "just ten minutes...max...,"and she sees him gesture her to walk in.She nods and starts.They walk in an intense silence but just before they were about to step in...she hears Arnav say – " stop..please...just a sec...Khushi.."

Khushi looks at him and asks – "what is it??"

Arnav looks at her and admits honestly – " I really hope to see you tomorrow...in the audience...Khushi...you'll come right? if you are not too tired?? Maybe we can – continue our conversation after that? you don't have a dive schedule day after, right?"

Khushi says now on reflex – " yeah, I don't...ill try to be there...but Arnav..it's no biggie if I miss right..I mean its going to be such a huge crowd anyway...not that you'll be able to notice?anyway??"

The words fumble out Arnav's lips on its own accord at that as his gaze scans her all over intensely - "well, if you do come, you'll be in the front row – for that's the passes I arranged for you....and even if you weren't in the first row...I'd obviously notice...because even if its the crowd of thousands....and you are in the room....You are...All I'd...See..Khushi..."

And can Khushi only gape back at Arnav at that – in stunned shock – yet again???

Ofcourse she can do only just that. With her knees weakening on her ......... like they hadn't in a long long time...........

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

How was that guys??? Intense – Much????? What did you think of the scenes????????I really enjoyed writing this yaaaa so so so much. I am loving penning down their scenes in the present with the crackling vibe off the history – through -

Now, you all know why I stopped where I did yesterday – right? Both these updates had to stand out on their own!

Next Update – On Tuesday/Wednesday evening now.

See you soon guys! Take Care!

Have a lovely weekend!

Much Love* Infinite Gratitude – Now&Always

Prachi