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

So yes –I am here with the next update, as mentioned on Schedule!😁😁😁😁👩‍💻👩‍💻👩‍💻👩‍💻

It's a Super Intense Update - emotionally for various other reasons too – you will know what I mean...when you finish reading...

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 – 10.5 k Words

Also – Important Note – Full Credit to the original singers of the playback/song numbers used for fictional purposes in this update. It is only for fictional reference/purpose in the story – that it is being hinted – that the song – has been sung/ recreated on stage by the lead character – in this Story!

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Text Copyright©mysticaltales11111™2022

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13. Trance

In the Green Room

The minute, Manizeh had seen Arnav step out and shoot her a friendly smile on the way out, falling into an instant discussion with Aman, she had rushed into his green room at the speed of light.

All the while, standing out with Aman had been nerve-wrecking for her as well. Only because, she literally did fear these two(A&K) had the potential to set each other ablaze in fire, in several different ways. And even though, she knew, Khushi could handle this – as her closest who'd seen her go through range of emotions in all these years for this man – it was inevitable for both curiosity and concern to creep up.

And well, one look at Khushi – standing against the wall, rooted to her spot – all flushed and frazzled – had been the testimony indeed, that yup – she had just been burned in her emotions within. She'd helped Khushi with a glass of water, from Arnav's desk nearby, instantly – post which – she had seen Khushi succumb to a seating position in a chair – right there – before she opened the snack box in her hand in a state of part hypnosis and she began munching on the - Cinnamon Swirls.

Manzieh had obviously asked, how did she even get those because well, they'd walked in empty handed, and on discovery when Khushi had answered that Arnav had handed it to her, because he wanted her to eat before the concert began – she herself had been stumped – momentarily. Well, it was a very sweet gesture. And just like that, as she said the very same to Khushi, and asked her if she was okay – she heard Khushi fill her in briefly with the highlights of what had transpired and said, in between the two...as she continued to eat...all stumped in between too...in part daze...

Now, as Manizeh watched Khushi almost finish the second Cinnamon swirl, she hands Khushi another glass of water as she says out loud – " well, to be honest, babe, I still don't know why you like those so much. I never could develop the taste for these. Anyways, crazy again, that he remembered, for this was a preference you developed, after moving too Fiji...right? like I remember, you'd always tell me back then, that you'd tell Arnav during your long distance years, that you couldn't wait for him to taste the best cinnamon swirls, from the bakery at the central marketplace near our houses on the island...like I just gotta say, its super sweet of him to just arrange this for you, right now...on that note...Khushi?? Which one's taste better haan? those one's, your usual fav's from back at Fiji, or these? That Arnav just arranged for you??????"

Khushi finally finishes munching on the swirls and as she finishes gulping the last bite down, emotions finally settling in their simmer a little – she says taking the glass of water, while continuing to fan her face with the other free hand – " these....of course...tasted, better...in the moment....Manizeh..."

Manizeh nods at that and asks again, her head trying to connect the dots again – " Wait...tell me again? did he really say? how soul wrenching it was for him to stay away from you all these years???????"

Khushi states at that fanning her face still – " indeed, he did...and I am telling you..Manizeh...there was so much angst in his eyes at that...his face...was twitched in so much pain, he was almost on the verge of tearing up...godammit...damm him, freaking hell...first he riles me up emotionally and then electrifies me...after with such intensity and display of passion in his eyes...for me...as if...in that moment...all he was thinking off, was our intimate conversations with one another...during our long distance...and well, we had a long share of those.....,"and she pauses fanning her face again– as she is hit with the various memories of their intimate conversations on video calls during their long distance.So much said..so much felt...so much expressed....with dreams..of just...experiencing those moments with the other....at finally meeting...

Manizeh winks at her at that breaking through her chain of thought studying her face for a second – " well, to be honest...not that you are the one complaining about being electrified....you literally looked like as if you are happy being the burnt toast in the moment...don't know about him, but you surely had those memories haunting you in that moment, I guess??in this moment, too, perhaps??"

Khushi couldn't help but chuckle at that – " well,burnt toast...indeed...rightly put...Manizeh...and I can't deny on the latter myself, you know...all this time, when I'v been single or even when I gave dating a shot...I'v always only thought off him...when..it came to...You know what I mean??right??and to hear him hint the same perhaps? did kinda flame me up..and ofcourse...all those haunting memories...from our previous conversations....,"she pauses, knowing she didn't need to tell Manizeh more on that, she just understood.

So, Khushi says next brushing her hand through her hair nervously – "anyways, I guess, I'v figured, why all this proximity with him is causing all these bubbles of desire, bubbling up within me...probably because all that was said and felt in between of us in our long distance, never really saw its practical release, for we didn't end up meeting, then...so perhaps, even though it sounds crazy...but all that electricity still seems to find a way to freaking hang in the air...in the present....in between of us....quite evidently...from both our sides?????? And of course, how can I forget the fact, that he just had to age into a hot hunk??godaamit..this man...just like he was in the past....in the present...too...he's freaking irresistible to my eye....yup,he's back to being that trigger to all that pent up desire, within. I'v realised that...quite deeply now... freak him..dammit..he's...come back to kill me...Manizeh...yup, that's what he wants to do...kill me with these intense emotions first and if not that – kill me with all these bubbles of desire, after...either way...I am the dead meat...or...burnt toast...like you aptly put..,"and she pauses to drink some more water.

Manizeh sighs at that rubbing on her arm in support but she admits – "if it helps you feel any better in the moment, Khushi, only fair....I say...you aren't the only burnt toast in here...surely, he is too.."

Khushi nods and sighs at that and her eyes fall on the gift box now upfront and she picks it up and she says to Manizeh – " like, how do I even control myself from opening this yaa????????? What's in this? He said, he wants me to open it in front of him... damm...looks like I will just have to control myself...I guess??"

Manizeh nods at that and she says now – " exactly,just, wait..if he asked you too..k?cmon, let's get going? The concert will begin soon...you set?"

Khushi says now her eyes falling on the time – "a couple of minutes please? let me just take deep breathes to re-center myself again...seeing him up on stage is also going to be an emotional rocket for me...you know..."

Manizeh nods at that and just as Khushi is in the middle of taking breathes to calm herself and Manizeh texts Amaar, that they will be back soon – they both see the green door room open suddenly, and they hear a familiar female voice fill in the room, the voice they'd also heard in songs/online so often – " ASR....listen...I know we got this bang on in practice...but I think it's better if you hear me go over the lyrics...again...I mean..its been long since we sang this playback together...years ago...our first ever hit duet...song..but that's what increases the pressure to just get it right on stage..yet again.....its all jamm packed out there and...oh, just why am I this nervous..again??"

It was.....Syna.

Not just Manizeh, and Khushi freeze at the sight off her upfront. Syna freezes in her spot as well – for she doesn't see ASR around and she instantly says to the two – " hey....hello....ladies...wait...isn't this like? ASR's green room?? I did enter the right space..right??,"and Khushi and Manzieh see her step back to open the door to check on the name again, before she steps back in and shoots them a polite smile – " well, yes, this is his green room...any idea where he could be? Ladies? I really need to discuss some...performance stuff??"

And since, Khushi was still statued in shock at her spot as seeing Syna upfront, she hears Manizeh say now politely – " hey..hello...Syna...I think I heard Aman say, that Abhijeet wanted to discuss some last minute bass stuff with the band...along with ASR, so yup, I guess...that's where he went..."

For a second, Khushi was bombarded with the memories off all the stuff she's read up on the two online – plus the scenes from their singing videos online together and in the very next second – in comes in the fresh memory from Arnav from yesterday clarifying his stand on the same, before she is hit with the recent electric moment with him, from minutes before.Maybe, she shouldn't let – Syna's presence create so much havoc within her already shaken system?? Seemed, like a solid backing coming from her heart...

But...why did she have to be drop dead gorgeous – though?She thought. And, also, Syna, just belonged to his music world, didn't she?? In the ways...that she..never really could, chipped in a thought from Khushi's mind – right back at her....

Khushi shuts it all out momentarily, before she shoots Syna a polite smile and says – " sorry...Syna...we were just heading out.....all the best to you too for the performance..,"and for a second – she was surprised to discover – Syna just looking at her – intently – as she stood frozen to her spot now.

Manizeh gives Khushi the look – Girl, is she really staring at you that way??

Khushi gives Manizeh the look – I guess, she is?? Manizeh gives her the look – Wait, is she envious to find us here in ASR's green room? Maybe, she likes him?????One sided????? Because, she surely knows, that not just anyone can be here.One totally, needs special access...

Khushi just shoots Manizeh a silent confused look at that and just as Khushi is about to begin walking from her spot – she hears Syna ask now – curiosity loaded in her voice – " wait, wait...wait.....I know...you!!!!!oh yes, I do...that's why I was looking at you for a second...that way...trying to connect the dots in my head...you are...you are....Khushi....right????????????,"and she steps forward towards them.

That freaking shocks both Manizeh and yes, the daylights, evening lights and night lights out of Khushi's mind as her eyes pop outta her socket as she asks shaken – " huh???? You know me??? wait...how?? how do you even know my name?? Syna??????"

And to both their collective surprise, they now see Syna break into an instant smile and grin as she closes the green room door shut, and walks up to pull a chair around and takes a seat as if she wanted to fall into chatter – "okay...so...yes...that confirms....you are Khushi....the Khushi....ASR's childhood sweetheart...Khushi..............I'v seen a picture of you....of course...that is how I recognise...you..."

Whatttttttttttt Theeeeeeeeee???????? Has Arnav been talking about to her – to Syna???????? Good heavens, me!! Khushi thought. She was not prepared for this hit – at all. How was this even a possibility???? The word in context – Childhood Sweetheart – also hit base deep within.....

And because Khushi can still just gape at Syna in shock – Manizeh asks on her behalf – " wait...wait...did ASR tell you that????????in her reference??? did he show you her picture??"

Syna states now honestly, kinda thrilled at her end to finally meet the woman, who, she was sure was ASR's Muse/Inspiration for all his music/emotions in his singing.The one he never talked about himself much, but Syna had discovered it all through Aman and ASR in bits and pieces and when she asked him,(ASR) he had affirmed with an emotional nod, and so she says to the two – " well, honestly, he did confirm it to me with a nod, when I asked him...so...Aman..did...tell me all the details plus showed me a picture of you....once... long ago..I think, it was around what...three years ago?sit down...you two...please? Khushi?? I mean, if you two have gotten in touch again,which you surely have, otherwise you wouldn't be here...in his green room...right now...I know...you'd need special access, which surely ASR arranged for you.... look, if you wana hear the context of what I said...I am more than happy to explain the same...ASR's been such a wonderful friend to me...I owe a lot to him...,"and she says looking at the time on the wall as Khushi's eyes go to it – " oh we have another ten minutes...some band adjustment..last minute...which is why I came here thinking...I'd run through those lyrics with ASR...but I am so glad...I ran into you instead......Khushi...sit down please?????"

Khushi, out of stunned curiosity obviously takes her seat as does Manizeh and she gives Manizeh the look. What's happening babe? Just what keeps hitting me??

Manizeh sighs at that but she looks at Syna and shoots her a polite smile and covers up – " apologies...Syna, Khushi, here..is just stumped...that you would even know...her...but she is listening...so If you don't mind..can we get to the context..of how???did you come about to even knowing her??"

And Syna says now with a small smile recalling the memory – " so you know...there was a time...around three years ago...I was going through some personal mess...quite the significant one...but it was ASR, who kinda guided me through it...he's such a nice guy....super sweet...a rare find..they just don't make the likes of him anymore...so...he, along with Aman later on eventually helped me find so much perspective within...and that really sorted things...out for me....,"and she pauses for a second, the memory of both Arnav and Aman's support to her through one of the most challenging phases off her life – hits her – head.

What was this phase? It was the bit that Syna, had been so confused about how to deal with coming out with the truth about her sexual orientation - to her family. She, had been in love with her partner, Kate, whom she had met at music school in London in her undergrad days – for years by then, and the two had been going strong, super strong, but for obvious reasons, she'd just kept it under the carpet from her family. The mindset here in India, still was quite sceptical about the LGBT community, which to her eye was such a pity. Love was Love, in all its glory.Then Why? Just draw freaking so many, boundaries, boxes, labels, around it??

But then, back then, came a moment in time, her family was coaxing her into meeting men for arranged marriages and she obviously was in a crazy fix on how to deal with it all.

It was on one such occasion, that Syna was working on a recording with ASR – post which – she just had this meltdown in front off Arnav – voicing it all out to him. She had expected – surprise, shock(not in a good way), disturbed awkward look – up his face after for that's the usual look she was prepped for – but when she had received only sheer understanding, support and friendly encouragement from ASR instantly, followed by Aman eventually too - she had been pleasantly surprised. Way too, pleasantly surprised.

And post that it was with ASR +Aman's constant support and counselling on the same that she'd finally been able to come out with her truth to her family. They went into a shock – obviously for a bit – but eventually accepted Kate – for it hit base to them that Syna's happiness – was with Kate – and well, the two of them continue to be in a rock solid steady relationship...

But for obvious reasons,on Kate's insistence, Syna had kept it all under the wraps from the public eye – till now + she was still working on within – to be able to come out with it at large – for she was obviously nervous about protecting Kate from hate online+the impact it could have on her now roaring music career. Kate, worried more on that accord, actually.

In fact, for the last couple of months, ASR and Aman had been supporting her (Syna) on the same – with regular talks, hearing her out etc, for she did feel like she didn't wana like not own it out at large too. She loved Kate – deeply and every bit of her wanted to scream that out to the world at large...

Anyway, now that today – Syna found herself sitting in front of the woman from ASR's life – whom she'd known about through- Aman in some ways – how could she not want to clear the air? Or make conversation??????? Khushi's, first shocked look at her – had conveyed to Syna that she had surely been reading the media rumours/gossip stuff online. Women, are just blessed with an extra sixth sense. Right?

Syna just felt like she owed it to ASR to clear things from her end. Like what if – ASR was really in the middle of reconnecting with his childhood sweetheart????? She'd be the last person, to want herself to be a cause of any confusion in there. She respected ASR, way too much for the man he was.

Syna was still in thought when she hears Manizeh ask now clearing her throat – " hmmmm...Syna?? So you were saying?????something????"

Syna looks at Khushi now who was still looking at her shocked – and she says now – " yeah...so..sorry about that...I just kinda zoned out...into that time..in my head...which I most surely wouldn't have gotten through...without ASR's friendship and support, so, the bottom line is...he really helped me see through my personal mess...k? related to my love life..and well it was after that...I ended up asking Aman...out of curiosity if there was anyone in ASR's life..ever..for ever since I'v known him, he's just been single.....I knew about Aman and Meera – ofcourse, so was just curious about ASR, for he had always been so silent...about this...and well, it was then...Aman told me..about you...Khushi...as in...how the two of you grew up together, had been childhood sweethearts...then you moved..as in got adopted..into a family abroad...but then you all kept long distance going strong...for four long years?right? until, well...Arnav messed up...I guess???? I asked, Aman to show me a picture of you out of curiosity..then...and he did show me the last picture he had off you..before...things halted for Arnav and you...,"and she pauses for a second, just because she'd seen Khushi's eyes widen more and her face pale at that , but she continues – "and...from...where I see..it...in all these years...it's obvious ..that ASR deeply regrets messing up. I asked him the same, obviously, after seeing your pic, that you kinda look like you really do regret messing it all up with your childhood sweetheart, Khushi...and he acknowledged that with quite an intent nod – indeed.He really has missed...you...Khushi...still does...I guess..., anyways.. I am just so happy to see you here...really hope you guys reconnect and figure things out..ya......like i'v always felt, that him being single for years now has totally got something to do with you....it isn't that he hasn't had temptations around him...for he most surely has...i'v seen many women...aim to flirt with him, throw themselves at him...under the affect of alcohol...but he just doesn't get affected by any of it....infact, nor have I ever seen him give into the temptation of casual flirting...in the years...iv known him...he always maintains that respectful distance within his friendly demenour otherwise......so...yeah...its so clear, that he's missed you a lot...all this while...or else..he'd be dating? Right??????"

Khushi's mind, heart and soul were in a collective overdrive in the moment- needless to say!

And at that Syna hears Manizeh ask on behalf of Khushi again, first – " wait...wait..wait...so we heard that....but???come again on the former?? Please..the....bit...about your love life.You are implying quite clearly, that you are in love with someone else?? As in ASR and Aman..helped you sort stuff out then??"

Syna nods at that and explains again with a smile – " indeed...that's exactly what I am saying...I am very happy with my partner, whom I'v been in love with for years – okay? which means – I have no interest in ASR -k?,"and she pauses to look at Khushi – " look Khushi, I won't be able to look at myself in the eye if I don't clear it all up..that all the stuff online..is just media gossip...k? there's no truth in it at all...infact, the reason why ASR has never refuted those rumours about any link up prior is that– is surely because of two reasons. One, being, he's always focussed on nothing but work and he believes people who know him would just know, not to believe the various link ups and about the rumours in the link up with me, that have been raging online for a while and especially moreso in the last week is also because of me – as in – how do I put it...my love life isn't quite conventional according to our societies' standards...its like totally unconventional...k?so he just keeps mum to like help me just cover up...on the same...until I am ready to just own it/come out with it at large...k?? he counselled me a lot on coming out with it to my family...and is kind of in the process of doing the same – towards the world at large...that's all....until then...these rumours are just working like my cover up...for now...."

Khushi is hearing all of this and her heads still into an overdrive, obviously but even before she could muster out a reply, or inquire more on this - she hears Manizeh ask puzzled and upfront again – " huh?? what do you mean?as in define, unconventional...please? For like cut clear clarity...," and Manizeh pauses as a thought hits her head as she recalls Syna's words again – "oh wait...da...mmm wait, you mentioned, coming out with it at large...oh..is it what I am thinking??are you like into women or what??????,"And just as those words leave her mouth, Manizeh says politely – " sorry..really sorry...I mean I didn't mean it to come across that obviously...Syna..."

Syna sighs at that with a shrug but admits – "well, but I am glad, my explanation was that obvious, that you figured it out by yourself.So yup, I am not going to deny when asked upfront – Guys,it is what it is - I am not interested in ASR or any man for that matter....I am quite content with my partner...who most surely is not a man....,"And she pauses as she says with a profund...smile –" hey....wow, that does feel liberating to admit to two people, who are technically strangers to me...but hey... I trust the two of you can keep a secret? Only ASR and Aman, know for now and of course my manager...Rishi...but reason , why I didn't mind owning it in front of you two – was ASR - obviously.Because, first thing I want no misunderstanding in his life on my accord, I just respect him way too much for that.Second –Aman did tell me, that Asr/Aman/Meera could trust you blindly.. back then..with all their deepest secrets! So I just reckoned, you wouldn't be the one...to like...leak it out???????????"

And, at hearing all of that now, apart from emotions, Khushi felt so much respect gush through her being, for Arnav. Trust him, to help a friend, without any judgement and prejudices. He'd always been that way. Such a nice guy. A reason why she could never get herself to hold a grudge against him, Ever. It's always,easier to hate on someone – whose left you with hurtful words – but Arnav never ever crossed that line of respect/anger at her - even in their banters. Never even freaking snapped at her, even though – she did. Always treated her with utmost gentlemanly respect. Their banters were obviously – a mischievous part of their equation – but he always remembered where to draw the line, even when she forgot – which would obviously make her apologize to him immediately.

And now Khushi wonders as memories hit her head – that she never really had even one single mean memory from his end to fall back on as an excuse to hate on him – for Real. Yup.Not even a single one...well except for the silence he gave her....but that also was Just Silence....No hurtful words/bad break up vibes/ he had just vanished..

And now, hearing all of this from Syna, just instilled the feel in her gut that he was still the same old Arnav...within...in many ways...still....a rare find....one of a kind. Just like Syna said – they just don't make the likes of him anymore.Another reason – why she couldn't ever move on from him emotionally was this too – right? He was just so....Amazing....that no guy she met even matched half of that Amazing – she was used too experiencing – with – Arnav...

And it was easy for her to come to that premise within – because she had heard what she had from Syna...she obviously knew...Aman..could have been biased...but what biased interest could Syna have??She truly seemed to be acting out of sincere goodwill and respect of their friendship and Arnav as a human...

Oh Godammit! Him...!

Khushi asks Syna now, with her voice shaking a little with emotion – " so....he really helped you get through that phase of coming out to your family?? Syna??about your partner????"

Syna nods honestly at that – " indeed...he did..he helped me a lot....which is why...I just respect him way too much to let any rumours on my accord, be like a hindrance...on his side of things...like I explained...I just don't refute it in public, nor does he..because off...how it is...at my end..and also to protect my partner...from unnecessary bashing/hate for now...you know how it could get....from the audience reaction...back in India...so.....but please..tell me...you do get the clear picture...now?? right??????"

Khushi says instantly now - " yeah...I get it...I understand...I do..and yea..of course, this, as in your secret... is safe with us...don't worry..,"and she says to Syna next, on reflex – " you are very brave..you know that?Syna... like I really respect you for doing this...I mean... to even just say it all out loud to me only because you felt like you owed it to Arnav?? you are a good friend..to him too Syna..."

Syna smiles at that – " thanks....I like you...you know...just like ASR..no prejudice up your face...no...judgements...just plain simple...open-hearted... listening..with the aim to understand....where the other person could be coming from....."

Khushi shrugs at that now, but shoots her a polite smile and admits – " well, we both did grow up in an orphanage for many years – we'v obviously been subjected to so many judgements, prejudices, in our school days by some kid group or the other group in school/or the society around – that was when..we learnt and experienced...how shitty it feels...which is why..we decided long ago, to never become a version of that ourselves...towards..anyone...come what may....I am glad to find out..it still remains that way with him...even after...he's...hit the...,"And she pauses, as the reality hits her – that perhaps she had wronged him immense by believing all the stuff media wrote???? In her head all these years??? She had misjudged and pressumed – a lot in Arnav's context.Holy.Crap.Hell.....

Syna grins – "after he's hit the stardom..that he has...you mean??"

Khushi nods stunned within trying to get a grip of this new thought within and Manizeh smiles at Syna at that and they hears Syna say – "well, he truly hasn't let it get to his head, from where I see it. Believes in humility, quite strongly... and is surely the most grounded amongst us all in the group...we all take inspiration from him on that angle...101 notes from ASR on how to be handle your stardom and be a grounded..super star...."

That leads them all to share a chuckle on reflex – much to Manizeh, Khushi's surprise. She was so kool, Syna. They couldn't believe – what they had actually heard. Is this what , Arnav kept hinting on when he said – there was more than what met the eye?? – Both Khushi and Manizeh thought in their heads?

Oh – how different the reality can be? From just mere...perceptions.......

Syna says on reflex now – " by the way..on the topic of inspiration...Khushi....you do know that you are his Muse/Inspiration...behind every bit of his music/singing – even today??? Just like you always have been? You do know this...Right?????"

Now, that obviously hits Khushi as a fresh series of meteors as she asks, her eyes widened and popped out of her sockets – " wait?????????? what????????????????? I am what??????????? Syna???????? what did you just say??????? I am his Muse/Inspiration...behind...all his music/singing???"

Khushi – actually reached out to adjust her hair behind her ear, and in the process pinched her ears. Were they working normally? Did she hear – Syna right?? Did she just say?? What she did?????????

Syna takes on that expression of shock up on Khushi's face and figures that she probably was clueless about it all and she looks at Manizeh, who asks shocked on Khushi's behalf – " wait? what? how do you know this?"

Syna admits with a small smile – " well, it's so obvious, because he only thinks of you, in his head, every time he sings...every single time...he records...or even practices..for that matter..."

And Khushi feels herself sliding into a deep emotional trance as she hears that and hears herself ask her voice trembling in on her – " he...sa..id...th..at?? to you?? did...he...say...that?? to you??"

Syna says – " well, I figured, long ago, he didn't like to openly talk much about you to anyone apart from Aman and Meera, probably because he didn't want anyone else to witness his angst/pain...but there was this one time..during recording again...after I'd gotten to know about you....I asked him...the same...you know because we gotta be apt with the ounce of emotion in our singing right...and some songs really require it straight from the soul...the essence of emotion...that there's no way we can get it right, if we don't think of our special ones...ourselves....in the process....and the song that day...was kinda like that challenging emotional one....so before we took...Mike...and were sitting down to record in the studio....I told him...I am going to think of Kate...obviously...and channelise all my emotion...through....who are you going to think off, ASR?and well, infact that was the one time – he just ended up saying it in a flow – Khushi, obviously Syna. It's always been, Khushi....and I was so blown away by the look on his face – because well I knew you weren't still on talking terms – so I asked – really? even now?? even today??still Khushi? And he just looked at me simply and said – Always.......it's just always been..Khushi....Syna....always...."

Khushi feels like her heart literally stop at that as another emotional trance, sets in. Did she hear Syna right????????????????? Hadn't she wondered for years on listening to him singing – that who would he think about while singing? Because of the display of emotion on his face??in videos?? And now to hear – that perhaps – he could be thinking about her – always – in the process – just hit its way too hard in the bull's eye – board within her mind, heart and soul. Her heart goes into a massive shut down, restart mode several times – as that deep emotional trance continues to consume her. She literally didn't know – how to react to that....

And it is right then, Syna's phone buzzes in her hand and she says to the two, kind off glad to see Khushi all shocked in emotion, because it meant that she probably had been able to do some good here for ASR – "anyway, so...I gotta go now ladies...such a pleasure meeting you two...glad that you'll be in the audience..today...Khushi....although, I think, ASR is going to be more glad about it...."

Khushi can only nod at that emotionally stumped as she says to Syna – " thanks...all the best...Syna...nice to meet you...also..can you not tell Arnav about our conversation?? I mean...don't tell him...you met me...I will talk to him about it later...after...myself...that works??"

Syna smiles – " ofcourse....works....Khushi..,"and as he phone beeps again she says – " alright...I gotta rush now...bbye ladies.."and she rushes out the green room.

And just as she does – Khushi just gapes at Manizeh in her emotional trance as she says her voice trembling – " did you just...hear..all of that?? Manizeh?????"

Manizeh can only nod, for she was in a shocked confusion herself...

Khushi is right in the middle of composing herself now, when they both see the green room door open again as Aman rushes in and says in a hurry – " hey...c'mon...you two still here? Let's get you back into the audience...performance starts in seven minutes...now....,"and because he is in such a rush, he doesn't notice Khushi's emotionally frazzled state and acts on behalf of his friends request again and he says to Khushi – handing out a piece of paper to her – " okay....hurry up..Khushi...Arnav heads to wings backstage in five...he sent me here to check if you were still here...because if you were... he requested if you write the bit you would always write for him before his performance back then in the past, in here....so that he can keep the note with himself..during performance...today..."

And once again, Khushi can only gape at Aman in shock as she asks – " what????? he wants to take my note up with him , during performance – today??????"

Aman nods looking into his phone as it keeps tinging – " yes, yes..hurry up..please...Khushi..."

Khushi just gulps down her emotions for now – but takes the pen with shaking fingers and writes down the familiar words that she used to write to him so often before school/stage/community performances back in the day, so that he could keep it in his pockets through it all. These were the same words – she'd always send it to him on text every time before his performances in cafes/restaurants during his beginning days in Mumbai too. Her words – were -

All The Best, Arnav...I know you will rock the mike on stage today...just like your magical voice will rock the world, with its singing one day...I believe in You..Sing your heart Out. I'll be listening....Always...

Khushi....

(She'd skipped the last bit of her usual Lots of Love after Always...in this note – yup that was the only difference in what she had written today)

She hands the note back to Aman now and he heads out with it at the speed of light – thanking her for the same – folding it and tucking it safe in his pocket – asking them to head out too now behind him or they'd be late...

Khushi and Manizeh exchange a nod at that, with Manizeh knowing that there would be no way Khushi could even get a word out for while, she was that emotionally moved...

But just as they are about to step out – Khushi pauses as she says to Manizeh frazzled – " my gift box...the on..e..he...gifted...it's on the table...ill just get it...,"and in the rush – to just pick it up – it falls of her hand leading its lid on top to fall apart- which leads to Khushi picking it up on reflex – but as emotional as she was in the moment – the curiosity gets the better off her as she finds herself looking at the small notebook within the box and she quickly opens it now and just as she finds herself looking at the front page – she whispers out loud – " what the????Manizeh....come..here...a..second...please...just.....hold..me...or ill freaking faint..."

Manizeh rushes back to Khushi – obviously and she herself is taken aback as she finds the words written on the front page – For You...Khushi....(with a date from almost four years ago) Perhaps, if fate would have it...I'd be able to give this to you one day...

And Manizeh presumes this would be Arnav's handwriting as she sees Khushi run her hand over it – emotionally but she asks – " is this his handwriting?? Khushi??the notebook looks old and most surely used....its full...like all written in...one can make out from the aged look of both ink and paper...."

Khushi whispers her eyes blurring with tears now as they roam over his handwriting – "it is his handwriting...he wrote something for me..in this...on this day(her hands roam over the date)...I guess....I need to see it now...Manizeh...I hate that I am doing this when he asked me to see it in front of him...but I really just need to see it now..."

Manizeh holds her by the shoulder now as she whispers – " go on...just see it...,"and she holds on with bated breathes too. Something, in her gut told her – there truly was a missing piece in the puzzle...of the past...

Khushi flips the next page and just as she finds – the lyrics of Rabba Ve - staring back at her face in Arnav's handwriting , she feels her heart literally drown in another deep emotional trance once again, and with shaking hands she finds her hand flipping through the notebook next – that includes – all the music notes/some composition notes – some more lines of lyrics for other songs from his first music album – and she finds herself asking Manizeh now her voice trembling – " you think he gifted this to me?? because...he wrote this.... ,"she flips back to Rabba Ve lyrics in his handwriting – "for me?? as in while thinking off me?? Manizeh? Remember back then, when Rabba ve came out – and it was in the news that he'd written the title of album with the lyricist - and I'd been so emotional listening to the same, because it just also made me think so much off him...is he now trying to imply that he wrote these lyrics of his first ever hit song for me??????? is he implying the same???why else would he gift me this? Why else would he write – For you..Khushi...and the rest???look at the date? It's like four months before Rabba ve released...and like you observed...its surely a rough notebook that's like faded in its pages a little too...it's all full...with music notes...for his first album...everywhere...dammit...manizeh...what do I assume of this??????like....the lyrics of Rabba Ve...are so full of underlying pain...and if he wrote them thinking off me...like...if this is how he has been feeling? Then.....Why? Just why did he freaking just stay away from me for all these years????????????????????? Is this like a reflection of that soul wrenching pain bit...he mentioned????????"

Manizeh sighs at that now pretty much confused herself – "well , now I know why he asked he to open it in front of him..Khushi, for this answer really only he can give....something is truly missing in the puzzle here...Khushi...like...there's no way...he stayed away because of lack of emotion at his end...for you...that's evident...now...like yeah...he messed up...once...I guess..got tempted for a real time relationship..but my gut tells me now..that maybe..he realised what a mistake it was pretty soon....and perhaps? he's just been single and in pain ever since? Probably, because he was embarrassed thinking – what would he say to you now????? like with what face would he come up to you????

Khushi feels herself tremble now as she closes the notebook and clutches it to her heart – " I don't know...dammit...I don't know...like if it was the latter....he's such a freaking idiot...to let the silence go on for this...long......for there I was...thinking what not in my head...on his accord...Manizeh...is he a freaking fool or what??????Like....am I a freaking fool or what?????????? if this is how he feels...and this is what I feel...then why did we ever have to stay fallen apart???????? For this long?????Why?? All the time lost?? Oh godammit – yes, I know..the factor of long distance again, maybe?but then he's been single...for a long time...after..so then why didn't he date????oh - just why didn't he end the silence...from his end??prior?? why wait...until...now...what was he going through within? When it was this soul wrenching for him too????,"she answers that pretty much for herself wiping the trail of tears that had left her eye and she says now to Manizeh, her resolve determining even more – " looks like....its going to be a long night...tonight..Manizeh, there's no way...I am letting Arnav go outta my sight...after...until he gives me my answers....I just want my freaking answers ...."

Manizeh sighs at that now – " about time...don't you think? Khushi? About time the two of you faced this in front of another in an upfront talk – rather than in your emotions...alone??"

And Khushi can only whisper a emotional – "about time...indeed...,"before she finally makes her way out of the green room with Manizeh – tucking the precious gift box safely in her sling bag.

Also, as all that she'd heard from Syna returned to her head – Khushi felt like she also had no idea – how she was going to get through – watching Arnav perform live up on stage – without tearing up/breaking down in the audience – today....

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

Few Minutes Later

In The Arena

Needless to say, the Arena was buzzing with crazy excitement now, as the audience in the crowd – heard the MC on stage begin with – " Helllooooooooo....Sydney.............how are you this evening??????"

And a crazy uproar was heard back , followed by hooting and cheering, collectively from the audience at large, which was a testimony to the MC – that everyone in the crowd was crazily excited now that the concert was finally about to begin.

Indian music fans, from all over Sydney, and nearby areas had themselves seated in the audience, all going crazy in anticipation to hear the – Rising Stars from the musical industry back in Mumbai – perform – up collectively on stage for the first time – together – in front of them – Live!!

How could the atmosphere in the air not be exhilarating and exciting...????????!!!!!!!!

And needless to say, despite going through the intensity of emotions, Khushi was going through within, seated right in the front row, diagonally upfront from the stage – she couldn't help but feel her heartbeats race – in the anticipation of now – finally just being seconds away from seeing Arnav – up live on stage!

She hears Samarth ask her from one side now as the crowd continues hooting and cheering as the MC – begins to thank the title sponsors of the concert etc – " Khushi...are you okay?"

(Ofcourse, Samarth had noticed, Khushi return to the seat , visibly shaken, in her thought. It had also caught his eye, that she was trembling in crazy emotion and had folded her arms across her front – to just cover up on the same – as Manizeh gave him and Amaar the look – A lot just happened, Guys.Fill you in later...)

Amaar and Samarth obviously understood the cue, and kept mute for a bit, but now that Samarth thought he had spotted her shiver again in emotion – as the MC began with the good evening – he thought he might as well just check up on her.

Khushi nods at Samarth at that, continuing to fold her hands across her front tight. It was the bit that was helping her hold onto her emotional composure. She did want to experience this moment of watching Arnav live for the very first time – in all awareness and presence. She says now softly – " yeah...I am okay...Samarth.."

Samarth just hands her a bottle of water at that which, Khushi takes silently and drinks up a couple of sips. Just then – she hears the MC up on stage say – " alright Sydney, now that I am done thanking our title sponsors....here comes the moment, we have all been waiting for....tonight...apologies for the little delay...in the start...but here we are now...and I bring to you all on stage....collectively for the first time ever...on the Rising Star Tour....our very own musical stars from back home....put your hands together ladies and gentleman...and welcome...up on stage....the young talented dynamic group of our singers and musicians – who most surely have taken the Bollywood industry and the internet by storm in the last couple of years – by their soulful singing...so Sydney...are you ready to welcome them on stage?????????????well, our stars cannot wait to perform for you all...."

And needless to say, the crowd goes roaring in an excited – YES- at that – all hooting and cheering! Khushi wanted to join in – the cheer+ hooting – but she also felt like if she moved her folded hands from their position – she would just end up crying...which is why..she just stays put in her spot – with her eyes glued to the stage – as Manizeh , Amaar and Samarth joined in the hooting, cheering...

The MC grins up on stage and says into the Mike – " alright...we love that response from you Sydney...so, lets not make you wait any longer...here's welcoming on stage....our very own musical stars of the hour – ASR, Syna, Abhijeet, Jasmine,Armaan,Neha......"

And as the crowd goes all hooting and cheering and roaring again – Khushi feels her right hand go over to her heart to just clutch on it tight – as she comes face to face with the sight – she had often only seen up on videos – for the last so many years...

Arnav, walking out on stage,in the present...all set in his performer avatar with the rest of his group – all smiling and grinning – with their collar mikes attached to their ears. And Arnav, Abhijeet and Armaan were each carrying their guitars up with them too....as they all say into their mikes collectively grinning at one another – " Hello.....Sydney...thank you for being here...and for this beautiful...welcome....,"And that obviously sent the crowd roaring and cheering again back at the – SiX- of them upfront on stage!

Jeezzzzzzzzzzzz! The ambience...was ...way too electric...

And...Yup. Khushi was kinda trembling within in crazy ways as her eyes began blurring on her a little at the heartwarming sight..

Watching Arnav, up this way...in the present was indeed...a dream come true....

She couldn't take her eyes off him...nor did she want to in the moment. If she'd had it her way , she could go on without blinking for the next couple of hours of the concert for sure...

She hears Manizeh say now in a loud whisper in her ears brushing her arm– " its okay...if you wana cry...Khushi...only normal...we understand.."

Khushi whispers – " not now...I can't cry now...it'll blur my vision...,"and with that just as she is about to wipe the tear outta the corner of her eye – she feels her heart skip another beat – for it is just in that second – the blarring lights up stage dimmed a little- that lead to a more clearer vision from up the stage perhaps? – for yup, this was the very moment – she literally felt Arnav searching through the crowd gaze – finally fixate itself on her - holding her gaze from the stage – as his lips finally broke into a heartwarming smile at that – and under the pretext of adjusting his guitar and collar mike – he gestured his hand towards his pocket – shooting Khushi another intent look from across – as if to say. Thank you for your note, Khushi. I got it right here, with me. My eyes were searching for you obviously, and now finally... I see you.And Khushi could only blink back at him at that – in acknowledgement of the gesture – as usual – before finally shooting a thumbs up to him...which he acknowledged with a blink of his eye again from stage – before he finally got set to perform...

How did she know it was what his gaze and gesture meant??? Because, it was the same gaze and gesture – he'd used in the past – to convey that to her – in the audience from the stage upfront, every single time – she was there watching him perform...

But Jeeezzzzzzzzz....to actually witness this upfront...from him...now that he is this...ROCKSTAR...shook everything within Khushi again...as she remembered all that had been transpiring in the last couple of days...

And she pauses in her thoughts at that – for it is right then - they all hear the band on stage now begin to strike rhythms and chords, and tunes – and the collective group performance – up on stage begins – from the Six in the group – in perfect sync as they now begin to sing and move to the beats of a well synchronised peppy mash up of all of the six's peppy playback numbers....

And just like the audience - Khushi can obviously feel herself get consumed in the musical energy in the air. Only difference being – she had her gaze fixed on just one person up on stage with overwhelmed tears coming up to her eyes every now and then.....

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

Ten Minutes Later – Up On Stage..

It wasn't his first live concert, obviously. But, Arnav, was totally feeling as if it were....

Why?

Because - She was Here.

She was watching.She was listening. Khushi.His Khushi....

And the fact, that he was able to get a hold on her intent gaze at him – every now and then through out the group performance – as and when the flashlight dimmed around in its glare at their end – was an added pump of energy to his system – up on stage today!

As emotional as he was within, at the sight of her in the crowd finally – after years – he was quite exhilarated by the moment too – for it just edged him to keep giving his very best – into every note – every word – that left his lips, finding its way into the Mike.

Arnav Singh Raizada – was surely in an euphoric trance – that wasn't just restricted to the lines of his musical zone – this time around....

The group performance up on stage had just finished and the crowd was still in the middle of roaring and cheering – as Syna and Arnav – just took the centerstage now – to begin with the sequence of performances...

Everyone in the group was going to be performing a couple of duets together, before each got onto perform a mash up of solo's...and it was only after that - the next duo would get onto take the centerstage.

Because of the popularity of their duets, and perfect sync in music videos online – it was an obvious that ASR and Syna – were grouped to sing together.

Syna, ofcourse, could sense that there was a different euphoric energy surrounding Arnav in the moment – as she saw him gaze through the crowd one more time – as the two took the center stage. She obviously knew – who his eyes were searching for, but keeping up with her promise to Khushi, she just acted normally in the moment as she shoots ASR a smile and a thumbs up in a gesture to begin and once he shoots her a thumbs up too – they both hear the band behind begin with its tune...

It is also right then, Arnav thought he spotted Khushi reach out to wipe the tear outta the corner of her eye again – as his eyes found hers- for a brief intent moment. Wait? Why she fighting back tears, again???????? He raised her eyebrow at her briefly to ask the same – as the prelude of rhythms flew in the background...but he did sigh in relief, when she gave him a heartfelt smile...in the next second...with a thumbs up...like she always did in the past...

Oh – his heart – soared and swelled in emotion like it hadn't in a long time.She was surely tearing...up...in happiness??????Perhaps?????? Just like she often did in the past – in the audience?

And just like that in this vulnerable moment in time – as he heard Syna now begin with her cue – the beginning part of their Duet – he knew – the only way he was going to be able to not choke on stage in emotion was – if he just poured all of those emotions into his performance.....hoping desperately...that Khushi would catch on the vibe...that...this was all...for..her....that'd he'd always thought off her...Just her....every time he sang.....

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

Only, Khushi knew what it was taking off her to not tear up in the moment, obviously. The fact that Arnav really was finding her gaze often – staying true to the bit he said about – I got my eyes on you..just like old..times...was obviously not helping much...

But she also felt like she wouldn't exchange the experience for anything in the world. Yes, she was vulnerable...yes, she was surfboarding through high tides of emotion within....and yet..she was happy succumbing to this – Emotional Trance – within – over and over again.....

The crowd around was already swaying and hmming to the tune in the background from the band – and she just knew by the first string of the tune – that which song would come up next from Syna and Arnav...

It was one of her favourite songs from his playback playlist.Hadn't she heard it gazillion times? Already?She closes her eyes for just a second, to shift the pool of tears to its side as Syna's soulful voice fills through the arena now –

Meri Raahein...tere Tak hai..

Tujhpe hi toh ...mera haq hai...

Ishq mera tu beshak hai...

tujhpe hi...toh...mera haq haii...

And she opens her eyes on reflex next – for she knew at the back of her mind – that Arnav was going to sing in the next bit – only to discover Arnav's intense gaze linger over her for a second, before he sings into the mike zoning out into the lyrics and the soul of the song – stringing his guitar simultaneously in perfect sync with the guitarist in the band on stage –

Saath chodunga na

Tere peeche aaunga

Cheen lunga ya khuda se maang launga

Tere naal takdiran likhwaunga...

Main tera ban jaunga...

Main tera Ban Jaunga...

The Beats come on in full rhythm now – as she sees Arnav continue, as Syna's words haunt her mind momentarily giving her goosebumps in the moment – well, He always thinks of you when he sings...Khushi....

Sau teri main kasam yahi kahunga

Kiti wade aur umran nibhaunga...

Tujhe har baari apna banaunga...

Main tera...ban jaunga....

Main tera ban jaunga....

Arnav pauses. As the music prelude follows. The Crowd keeps swaying around to the beats in their seats...and Khushi obviously feels herself – freeze into her seat again.Actually, she was both freezing and melting at the same time...for the vibe that Arnav's gaze gave her in that one nanosecond before he sang this bit – affirmed the bit that Syna said – in Khushi's gut quite deeply....

The musical prelude leads into Syna now singing the next part of her bit – as soulfully – before Khushi feels Arnav gaze linger on her again but their eyes cant meet this time due to the flash of lighting – but it didn't matter. He knew she sensed it.She knew he sensed it, before he sang his bit...

Lakhan toh juda main hoya...teri khatir...

Tuhi manzil...main... tera musafir...

Rab nu bhula baitha tere karke...

Main hogaya kaafirrrr....

Tere liye...main...Jahan...se ..takraunga...

Sab kuch khoke...tujh ko hi paunga...

Dil banke mein dil dhadkaunga...

Main tera ban jaunga...main tera banjaunga....

Sau teri main kasam yahi kahunga

Kiti wade aur umran nibhaunga...

Tujhe har baari apna banaunga...

Main tera...ban jaunga....

Main tera ban jaunga....

And just as he finishes that...Syna chips in soulfully with her last part and the two finish performing...this first song in the segment...up on stage....

And this time around, as the crowd goes into a massive clapping and cheer mode – Khushi obviously cannot control her hands from clapping as hard at that – fighting back tears – along with Manizeh , Samarth, Amaar...

Arnav was seeing this wasn't he?And just like that – she felt like she was transported back to the version of herself years ago - always wanting him to see – her clap for him the hardest – as enthusiastically she always did...back in the day.

Manizeh asked Khushi obviously – if she was going to cry? And Khushi had whisperd back – " not just yet..Manizeh..later..maybe? but not just yet...,"before she got into clapping at her hardest – again...

And did Arnav notice the bit from stage??????? He obviously did. Despite the thousands of claps and cheers coming from the audience – his heart was soaring high into the sky at the sight of Khushi clapping for him that way....in the present today.....and that obviously pushed him to give his next duet performance....with Syna...its very best too...

The arena – next heard – the soulful number off Khuda Jaane – flow into their ears – the version Syna+AsR had just uploaded on YouTube not long ago...and needless to say....it kept the crowd...glued to their seats....

Minutes later, as that second duet finally ended...came the turn for ASR to now begin with a mash up off three singles – for his Solo performance. He had chosen, two of his very own playback numbers for the same, and one good old evergreen number from one of his seniors in the industry....and he obviously...began with giving his senior due credit..for the same...with expressing humble gratitude into the mike – of being given this opportunity to be able to recreate the epic song – in this solo mash up today....and that obviously sent the crowd roaring and clapping again...before he even began...

And when he did begin – closing his eyes for the second – as the musical tunes gave him the cue – it was now time – to sing his heart out on the same.He finally did open his eyes – with the intent to just keep them stationed direct upfront – despite the lighting affect...for even though it was now an hindrance to him spotting Khushi clearly...he knew she could sense his gaze.....nonetheless...

And so – Arnav...sang....he just freaking sang his heart and soul out into the first bit of the mash up –

Na Hai Yeh Paana...

Na Khona Hi Hai.....

Tera na Hona Jaane...

Kyun Hona Hi Haiii..........

Tumse Hi Din Hota Hai..

Surmayi Shaam aati hai...

Tum se hi...

Tum se hi....

Har ghadi saans aati hai...

Zindagi...kehlati hai...

Tumse hi....tumse hi.....

(he sings that on repeat – again – before going into the second stanza direct)

Aadha sa waada kabhi..

Aadha se zyada kabhi...

Ji chahe karlun...is tarah wafa ka...

Chode na choote kabhi...tode na toote kabhi...

Jo dhaga tumse jud gaya..wafa ka...

(Thankfully, the lighting on stage dims a little just then, and Arnav is able to look at Khushi's way again – as he sings the next soulful line – hoping desperately again, that she'd catch the vibe he was sending her way.... )

Main tera sarmaya hun...jo bhi main ban paaya hun....

Tum se hi...tum se hi...

Raaste mil jaate hai...

Manzilein mil jaate hai...tum se hi...tum se hi....

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

She couldn't control her tears at that. Khushi obviously couldn't. Just as she feels Arnav look at her briefly intently before singing that next soulful line , she felt the latch on her emotions shake a little as a line of tears way...made its way...through her cheeks...which she wiped away...instantly.....

This is why..he wanted her to attend in person??? So, that he could kill her with all this emotional vibe – he was pouring into his singing today. He always did perform this way but the difference this time was – this time – she was in the crowd to sense it all and watch in real time and in her gut – she just couldn't help but catch onto the vibe – he was sending her way - for the hundredth time again....every time..he'd looked at her that intently....

To the crowd...it just looked like ASR was lost in his musical trance and the euphoria of performance...but it was obviously for Amaar, Samarth, Khushi, Manizeh (in the crowd)+ Syna in the stage/wings+ Aman in the side upfront to know – better and the complete significance of the context – today! Aman was sort of fighting back his own happy tears – too!

Now, just as Khushi hears the tune of the next song mix in to the mash up now – she feels her heart halt at that as she says to Manizeh – "ohh man...Manizeh...just hold my hand tight...he looks at me one more time..as he sings this......il'l be a dead meat...not that I already am...not..."( It was one of Khushi's fav off his playback collection again)

Manizeh obviously holds onto Khushi's hand tight as she sees Khushi just brush her hand through her hair to compose her emotions – as Arnav's soulful voice fills the arena with....

Tum mere...ho iss pal...mere ho...

Kal shayad yeh aalam na rahe...

Kuch aisa ho tum , tum na raho...

Kuch aisa ho...hum , hum na rahe...

Yeh raaste alag hojaye...chalte...chalte...

Hum kho jaaye...

Main....phir...bhi...tumko...chahunga...

Main phir bhi...tumko...chaunga...

Iss chahat mein mar jaunga...

Main phir bhi jaanuga...

Mere Jaan mein har khamoshi le...

Tere pyaar ke nagme gaaunga...

Main phir bhi tumko chaunga....

Iss chahat mein mar jaaunga...

Main phir bhi tumko,...chahunga....

And as the lights dim around stage again – Khushi's heart skips a beat as she spots Arnav blinking a couple of times apart from normal, as if he was fighting his emotional turmoil greatly at that – whilst singing – before he finally looked at her – again – for just two seconds – the seconds that were enough to relay the intense emotional vibe to her – that the words – he was singing right now/next – were just for her....

Aise zarrori ho mujhko tum...

Jaise hawayein saasein ko...

Aise talashon main tumko...jaise ki pair zamino ko..

Hasna...ya..rona...ho mujhe...pagal..sa...dhoondun..main tumhe....

Kal mujhse mohabbat ho na ho...

Kal mujhko ijazat ho na ho...

Toote dil ke...tukde..lekar...

Tere dar pe hi reh jaunga...

Main...phir bhi...tumko chahunga...

Main phir...bhi...tumko..chahunga...

He finishes singing this bit now –and the next singles tune comes in the background immediately too. The crowd cheers loudly too recognising it instantly and Khushi feels like she's now literally going to feel her heart burst for it couldn't take the flux of emotion anymore and she says to Manizeh now clutching on her hand tight – " if he sings...this...right now...Manizeh...ill weep...buckets...I swear to god...I will...weep...seas/oceans....,"And she feels her hand go to her bag on reflex for it held that precious notebook...right??....of the handwritten lyrics...of this very song.....

And before she knew it – she heard Arnav's soulful voice fill the arena and her ears...as his eyes lingered on her again ...before he strung his guitar and closed his eyes and poured his heart out into the mike – as he sang....

Rabba ve.....Rabba Ve.....

Rabba Ve....rabba Ve...

Rabba Ve...rabba Ve....

Rabba Ve...rabba Ve...

Kyun khwabon pe tere saaye hai...

Dil kyun hai tanha mera...

Kyun khamoshi hai zubaan meri...

Ashkon se keh paun na...

Kyun dard hai itna...

Tere ishq....Main.....

Rabba ve rabba ve...

Rabba ve..rabba ve....

Kyun dard hai itna....

Tere ishqq...main...

Rabba Ve...Rabba ve...

Rabbbbbbaaaaaaaaaaa Veeeeeeeee....

Rabbbbaaaaaaaaaa Veeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee...

All- in the crowd - listen and see ASR hit freaking high soulful notes with that matching the tune perfectly – his face consumed in intense emotion and euphoria again - which was testimony to all present that he indeed was lost in the musical trance of the moment......

But once again, it was just for Aman, Amaar, Khushi, Samarth, Manizeh and Syna...to know and catch on the vibe....that there was more than just - Musical Trance consuming Arnav in the moment...just like they knew it was more off an emotional trance that consumed Khushi too as Arnav finally finished with his performance – and she finally let loose on her tears and they fell hard obviously – as hard as she'd been clapping for Arnav, before she finally got up from her seat to excuse herself to the washroom....

She didn't want him to catch her breaking down..this way....right now....but perhaps it was too late? For when just got up to leave – Arnav had finally opened his eyes upon finishing + the sound off the crowd roaring and clapping – and he did catch her in the middle of wiping her tears before he saw the sight off her leaving her seat with Manizeh behind her....just as he bowed in performance courtesy to the crowd – as they kept cheering and clapping hard...

Oh – how all he wanted to do was just run after Khushi at the speed of light, himself – but as he heard the sound of Syna's musical cue come on in for her solo's next – and she took centerstage now smiling at him – gesturing to him that he had aced it. Arnav,couldn't help but be reminded that – he was in the middle off a live performance and they were all to do another group performance before, the duo off Armaan and Neha took stage – and so no matter how badly his heart wanted him too/ached to go to Khushi.... he couldn't obviously just dash away...

And so for now - Arnav just....walked in his steps back to the sidewings joining the rest of the group as they congratulated him for a beautiful performance. He could only nod and smile at them in silence though, encouraging them with a gesture of his smile and eyes for their next performance.Why just in silence? Because, every inch of him was still consumed...in an Overwhelming Emotion...that surely had everything to do with the Magical + Mystical - Trance off...Love.

..................
Taddddaaaaa!

How was that guys??? Intense – Much????? What did you think of the scenes???????? Syna's meeting with Khushi?  The gift part? And ofcourse – the concert+song scenes????? I really loved writing this update. Included these songs for the lyrical weightage obviously.

Songs Included & Credits :

Tera Ban Jaunga – (Kabir Singh) - Tulsi Kumar, Akhil Sachdeva

Khuda Jaane (Bachna Hai Haseeno) – KK, Vishal&Shekhar, Shilpa Rao

Tum Se Hi (jab We Met) – Mohit Chauhan

Phir Bhi Tumko Chahunga (Half Girlfriend) – Arijit Singh& Mithoon

Rabba Ve (IPKKND) – The original singer (Somehow I couldn't find out the real name of the artist who sang this – please do let me know – if any of you know)

I really hope you all enjoyed reading this update as much as I enjoyed putting it together.

Next Update – On Friday/Saturday evening now.

See you soon guys! Take Care!

Much Love* Infinite Gratitude – Now&Always

Prachi