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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!👩‍💻👩‍💻👩‍💻👩‍💻👩‍💻👩‍💻

Okayyyyy – Seat Belts on dear readers as I present to you the longest and yup – most super duper intense update of this tale – till now! I couldn't split the scenes for it all like had to Flow – as One! You will know what I mean, when you read the update!😁😁😁😁❤

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 – 14.4 k Words

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14. Rapids Off Fire.

Sometimes, you plan a certain course of action, in your head,only to discover that – as the events unfold – the circumstances that come to light, require you to make an immediate diversion in your former plan of action?

Why?

Because, well, some moments and its experiences, just have that potent power/capacity to change, just about – Everything!

And needless to say, that Khushi in the moment, was going through this very above premise. Every nanosecond, of the last couple of hours had resulted in that. Starting from those intense moments with Arnav in the green room, then the talk with Syna, seeing Arnav's gift and all of that ultimately converging/culminating towards the experience of watching him perform live up on stage – with the complete knowledge that – his every second, spent singing in deep emotion – had been - Just for her. And as Syna, mentioned, that wasn't just the case of today....it had been the case...always...

So how could she not have had that breakdown she did – after Arnav's solo performance – ended?

She just needed to vent. She needed the emotional release, as she howled and cried her eyes out – in the washroom – with Manizeh just holding onto her.

However, tears have this magical cathartic power? Don't they? So, she obviously felt lighter – after. She had been able to compose herself, just in time, and had made it back to her seat, for the next group performance. There was no way, she was going to miss even a second of seeing Arnav, up on stage...

She'd felt his intent gaze on her almost immediately, as she took her seat back – as if his eyes had been searching earnestly for her return – whilst he got set on stage for the next live group performance. She'd also spotted the overwhelming concern in his eyes for her, in the moment- as he took in the sight off her. For, no amount of water proof make up – could sustain that solid flow of tears and she obviously had to wash her face completely, leaving it bare. Her face did look run down emotionally – her eyes exhausted – but yet she was able to shoot him a heartfelt smile back – in a gesture to confirm that she was okay, and that he better get on with his next performance for she was waiting to hear it!

And well, as the next group performance eventually began,and she did let her eyes bask in the moment – of killing it up on stage yet again in his rockstar mode - in the next mash up of peppy groovy numbers along the group - Khushi felt her mind go into a brainstorming mission of its own as her eyes stayed glued on Arnav throughout then and also the time after that when he was on stage on and off – and that brainstorming process within her mind, obviously went on till the end of the concert!

So,What was this brainstorming about?

It was obviously, about her thoughts on the way forward, from here...with Arnav in context. She'd come into the concert arena – from the green room – thinking – that she was just going to barge in on him with her huge list off questions seeking upfront answers – but every bit off what she'd experienced in the moments in the arena+ her very own emotional breakdown and her intuition catching on the intense overwhelming vibe – Arnav was radiating too back at her – had succumbed her to rethinking that bit.

Why?

Because, it was in these moments in the arena, that she'd also realised that there wasn't just a normal suitcase of intense baggage, hanging in the air, in between of them. Apparently, there were mountains, of it. From both their sides. Mountains of emotional baggage that had gotten formed, on either side – in the time lost in the seven years away from one another. She still didn't know – the how's and why's etc etc – but what she did know in the present today – that each mountain of that emotional baggage had to be shed upon, bit by bit – or else – they'd both just drown under the crazy intensity off what her mind wanted to term as an emotional – Apocalypse. Now that she thought off it, it had always been that way, in between of them in the past too – hadn't it? They had been each other's source of Zen/Fire/Raw Vulnerable unfiltered Emotions/Friendhsip/Love/Passion – so much more. Like literally more like the – All in One customised mode in tandem with what the other needed.

Perhaps – no amount of time lost had been able to change that?But, at the same time - She was yet to discover all that he'd been through in the years without her. He was yet to discover all that she'd been through in the years without him. Plus, they also had to catch up on each other's journeys on other aspects of Life, from back then to the present during the time lost.So, even though – so much of their core was still the same, as individuals, a lot in tandem around had changed too – which needed serious catching up – upon.

There was lot to figure out, lot to discover, which was why for her very own emotional sanity, she knew, she needed to bank upon the power of the present – to help unshed all her baggage of the past. You know how like – sometimes, you just need to be in the present to even get set sail on a discovery ship into the past? Yeah, just like that. This was the other bit her job had taught her too – even to discover the findings under the blue's related to the past ecology – as a diver she needed to be present/live the present in the water – ti be able to come across a finding – right????????

Of course, she wanted her Answers. Oh, she wanted them all. But she was now going to approach it all step by step. Seeking out one peel off, day by day. Just like how you plan a research/experiment and approach one bit at a time, rather than handling it full scale at once? It was a good thing, that her mind had been able to plan it all...in her head...

Khushi, in the moment, is right in the middle of this thought process in her head – as Samarth, Amaar and Manizeh are with her in the car – dropping her to the spot – she was supposed to meet Arnav. She obviously wanted, to have her thoughts in place, before meeting him.

Arnav and Khushi had got on text – immediately as the concert was over. He'd asked her – where was she comfortable to meet? And it had been Khushi's suggestion – that it totally had to be place that gave them privacy for an undisturbed one on one. Arnav had gone onto plan the next, at the speed of light. Within minutes, Aman had texted Khushi the location of an AirBnb, near and around the harbour – that he'd booked in his name. It was also mid-way point from the hotel Arnav was putting up at and the accommodation Khushi, was staying in with her team...

Khushi hears Manizeh's voice fall in her ears now, as she continued looking outta the window – " babe,I know, you'v been on this thinking spree...but...listen... call us when you want us to come pick you up? K? its just a little over 10:30 pm now...so no matter how late it gets...just tell us...k? we'll come..."

Khushi nods at that and she says – " yeah...ofcourse...I'll let you know...but you all don't worry...K? I got this, yeah, there's a twist in my approach, surely, but I got this....,"and as she is hit by the memory of him looking at her through the concert again – she can't help but feel her insides go on their rocket of vulnerability again.

Amaar says – " kool...then...just text..us...then??"

Khushi nods again.

Samarth keeps up with his silence at that. Something, in his gut told him, that there was no way – these two could(A&K) could get this heart to heart – done in a couple of hours - anyway. Yeah, it ached a little. Because, obviously it's not like his very own feelings for Khushi, would vanish overnight. But it ached just about a tad bit little. He knew, he was going to be okay. Just a matter of time...

Samarth was glad, that the revelations were coming around for Khushi now.Manizeh had filled them in over the major highlights off all that Khushi had discovered.And he totally thought now – that it really was unfortunate enough for all their (A&K)emotions for each other to be like hung/stuck – for this long. Why do we as humans,sometimes take ages to break an emotional silence that aches as crazily as this?????

Samarth says now, taking a deep breathe looking out the window – he was seated in the front seat next to Amaar who was driving – "strange...it is...indeed...how just yesterday on our drive to the dinner...I was suggesting something..else...Khushi...but yet..here I am...suggesting differently...because...situations in context have just changed drastically..now...haven't they?? I wana say something...but only if you wana hear it out..."

Khushi answers that with a sincere nod – " indeed...Samarth...the context has just changed drastically..now...yes...please...go on..."

Samarth says now honestly looking back at Manizeh and Khushi, before looking back at Amaar – " you know what's the biggest blessing? Khushi??Manizeh?Amaar?? to have the one you feel for, actually feel for you the same way and at the same bloody time....you know...not all of us are lucky to experience that blessing...."

Khushi whispers instantly at that – " I am sorry...Samarth...I...I.."

Samarth shakes his head – " hear me out, please? I am not saying this so that you can sorry me..ok? you don't need to. I understand.What I am saying is – haven't we both seen and felt for years that these two here...,"he pauses gesturing to Amaar and Manizeh – "are truly the luckiest...to have each other??? Because they are always in so much tandem...with everything??"

Khushi nods at that and Amaar gestures his left hand out to Manizeh at that and she obviously puts her hand in his and he kisses on it emotionally. There was no denying – that. His brother – was right.

Samarth says now – " so, look what I wana say...is...that I know how you'v felt for this man...and the way he was looking at you throughout from stage...performing with the emotion he was...it was damm obvious for us...to figure out...that...he obviously has no lack in the depth of emotion for you...too..k?I know...you gotta lot of history of the past to handle with him...but I suggest you focus on this too Khushi - that despite the time lapsed staying away from the other...if the two of you..find yourself at the same bend in the road of feelings today...I'd suggest...just don't throw it under the bus...k? the past is gone, in the sense, yeah emotional history remains, but what I mean is that the time lost is not going to come back Khushi...what is in your hand today, is how you handle that past baggage, on the basis of also living the present situation in time...,"And he pauses and as he sees Khushi nod at that in deep thought he continues – " look I just don't want you to get caught up in another vortex of ache...k?that's all...you know very well, its him for you, always will be him for you....and perhaps, it is the same for him? then do both yourself a favour..and just figure things out....k? or else...certain regrets can last an aching.... Lifetime......."

Amaar agrees on that as well with a nod.As does, Manizeh, clutching on Khushi's hand.

Khushi nods in a understanding at that as she whispers – " I know what you mean...guys, I am not planning to like throw the present under the bus..k?my aim is more like towards banking on the help of the present – to help me unload my angst from all these years...or I'd just drown...we'd both just drown...we obviously need to honour the present...for...the present will keep us..afloat...I guess...."

Manizeh smiles in relief at that – " good, you got that plan figured out in your head babe? We reach him – in five..."

Amaar asks now – " but wait...Khushi...check with him..has he reached? I mean it was a fan frenzy there after the concert – right?? the meet and greet etc etc...was he able to get away in time?? kool of him to like ditch his after party and stuff...with his group on this massive success...of the first event of their tour...."

Khushi nods at that and is just about to text Arnav when her phone beeps with his text.

Arnav : Khushi, I am here. Okay. Just come up to the 7th floor. Walk straight down the corridor.Far end. Last door. 711..

Khushi says to all – " he's already there...guys.."

She replies : Reaching in three minutes – Arnav.Also, thanks, for like making it there in time..already. You missed out on your after success party with everyone....

Arnav : what the? Are you crazy? You know there's no else I'd rather be...Just Come soon, please?

Khushi : Yeah. I am...also wait..just checking...did you eat? Anything? Once again, thank you for the snack – it was yumm.

Arnav : yeah, Aman made sure, I grabbed a bite on my way to you – from the afterpart arranagements. Wasn't really hungry though. The only bit...I am actually starved for...is some time with you...alone! You know that now don't you? I just can't freaking wait to see you, anymore.

Khushi feels her stomach summer sault at that as she replies.

Her : I know....K? I am Coming, as soon as I can – k?

Him : Come soon, Khushi..

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Five minutes later, as Khushi made her way down the corridor on the seventh floor, she felt her legs shake on her - in so much emotion, again.

Even though, she had her thoughts in place, in her mind, she was obviously also,extremely vulnerable in her being.The emotional rocket she'd been through – in the last couple of hours – had obviously left its vulnerable trails. Also, at the same time, a part of her mind was also nervy in exhilaration and anticipation. Kind off excited too – to discover what the next moments with Arnav – would lead too. She was also prepped for an onslaught of crazy electricity and intensity from his end –or rather both their ends - obviously.

She knocks on the door of 711, and as she sees it open immediately and her eye's met Arnav's intent ones – and she spots his entire face twitched in overwhelmed emotion too, his eyes welled up – she feels her own eyes – well up a little – again.

She shivered...

She trembled as he just stood still for a second – raking his eyes all over her ,frozen to his spot. She thought, she totally saw him – tremble in immense emotion too as she kept her gaze locked with his.

He finally handed her his hand and as she took it, feeling her entire body jolt up in crazy voltage at the feel of having her hand in his - taking her first step in- keeping her very own intent gaze locked with his – Khushi knew in her gut – that there was no way the two of them could step out of here – being unscathed. His intent gaze on her, mirrored the same back to her as well...

He knew...She'd burn him. He'd burn her. But perhaps – about time – they just set each other – ablaze? At the same – time – together??????????????

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Arnav couldn't help it.

He couldn't help but shove Khushi against the back of the door, the minute he closed the door shut behind him, now that they were finally alone. His hands moved up to cup her face gently on their own accord as he whispered sincerely his intense gaze searching her face – his one hand now moving to wipe the tear outta the corner of her eye that was threatening to fall off onto her cheek.She looked so exhausted. Almost, pale in her face. He whispers concern evident in his voice – " do you have any idea? How sick I'v been going in worry here?? Khushi?????? You'v been crying, so freaking much?? Haven't you?? You know I cannot see you cry...you know I cannot see you freaking cry....when you walked off the seat that way...after my performance...I legit fought my urge to come after you..with so much difficulty dammit...right very then...so,you answer me now..dammit.....what can I do...to make you feel better in the moment...dammit??are you okay????? are you okay????????,"And with that he just rubs his thumb on her cheek gently – sending fresh flux of emotion through Khushi's nerves. It wasn't just his proximity this time around. Once again, she was freaking blown away by the intensity of emotion on his face, for her.

She whispers now, keeping her gaze locked with his intent ones – " yeah....I am okay...k?? I was crying...because...well...I was just overwhelmed...so crazily overwhelmed...that's all...at seeing you up on stage...Arnav...they were more like tears of happiness – k? I mean...I saw you dream of this...from..."

And Arnav fills in for her continuing to caress her cheek intently, super glad that she was not pulling away – " you'v seen me...dream...of this....from the very scratch...from the time.....even a part of my mind didn't believe...that it could be true...but you...always believed...always....,"and at that he couldn't help but close his own eyes as a tear pooled up to the corner of his eye too – " you have no idea...what it felt...how it felt...to finally see you in the audience..tonight...Khushi...you have no freaking idea.....how much I have waited for this moment....ached...for it...almost....you have no idea..what it felt ...like...to finally perform...with your note in my pocket...with you...watching..me...cheering me...on like...old times....you have no freaking...idea...how long I have waited for this experience......"

Once again, that soul shattering angst was etched all over his face, and now because Khushi had so much going on in her head which he didn't know – about – felt like she needed to just direct the conversation towards that – and just as she is about to say something – she pauses because he opens his eyes to her next – and Khushi feels herself go into that emotional trance again as she spots his eyes looking back at her bloodshot red with tears pooled up in it quite significantly as well and she feels her hands act on reflex now as they cup his cheeks holding his face in her hand as he was holding hers and she says, her own voice shaking in emotion now – " no....don't you...cry....please??? Arnav....don't you cry...dammit...not right now..don't you freaking do this to me dammit....you know I can't see you cry...the last you cried...in front of me...was...when I left for Fiji...and you know that haunted me...for way too long.....after...dammit...please...don't you cry...,"but as she saw a trail of tears fall down both his cheeks by then anyway – she just wiped them away – immediately – before her emotions take over.

Uh-Oh to the mind's plan off not giving into the tsunami. It was apparently, inevitable. So, Khushi lets her own tears flow now as she whispers holding onto his collar now yanking him closer – " why???????? Dammit you....godaamit...you....why???????????? if you can't see me cry??????? And I can't see you cry??????? Then why were we crying?????alone????? Because of the other?????? For all this while??????? All these years?????????haan?????????why did it freaking have to be this way???????? haan?????? you say...you can't see me cry...then know what dammit? I'd say to that??? that then thank god...you weren't there...after....your vanished act up on me....all those years ago....to see....how much I cried.........dammit...for nights.....only because...I didn't even freaking know...for days...or months...or damm years for that matter...how....to go on without you.....i knew...I could never get in touch with you...because what if you'd say..you just wanted to be just friends?again? Just friends again...my freaking foot....it always had to be either all in...or all out from...me....you sensed that, didn't you? you knew that didn't you?? you knew, why I would never break the silence?????? "

Arnav holds onto her wrist at that as he admits – " my damm freaking foot too..the two of us...could never be just friends again....I agree on that...wholeheartedly...I knew it had to be...either all in...or all out... you're your end...k??????yes, I knew...you wouldn't break the silence...."

Khushi yanked on the lapel of her jacket harder at that as her other hand just fisted itself on reflex as she shoved it on his shoulder, her eyes now glaring hard at him – " you knew...right?? you freaking knew...everything....you also called me your gravity...a shortwhile ago...you freaking said..that..right?? then...didn't you know?????? that you were my gravity toooo/my anchor????????? You freaking were everything to me...dammit...everything........my world...my heart....what we had...was.....my whole wide world and my heart...Arnav....you knew that right....right?????then....whyyy?? just why???????? Just why did it have to be this way????????????? you didn't freaking just vanish on your own...you took my freaking heart with you...leaving me...with nothing...but remains off your haunting...memories...to get by with...after....."

And this time around, it was Arnav's turn to be blown away in emotion at the distraught sight up her face. He couldn't see Khushi, cry this way. He just couldn't. And it freaking killed him immense within that he couldn't give her the truth too, for that would only hurt her more.He wipes her tears away as tenderly now keeping his gaze fixed with hers as he answers one bit of it honestly keeping a finger on her lips – "shhhh....Khushi....shhh....please...dammit...please?stop crying....please????,"but at the same time, he couldn't stop crying too as he admitted on reflex – " it was the same for me too dammit....I butchered by own heart to in the process...all I'v been coping by is..the remains of your memories...our memories....haunting me day in and out...you heard me...right??now..just stop..crying..this way? please?its butchering me...stop...just godammit...stop..."

And now that from him freaking results in bubbles of that subconscious anger buried in Khushi's mind come to the surface as she says letting the flood of tears have its way – "how dare you freaking ask me to stop crying...when you won't stop crying yourself? You know its..freaking butchering me within to see you cry this way...and yet...you won't freaking stop...than why shall I stop??????????? I won't stop....damm you....Arnav....,"And with that she just glared back at him angrily but kept wiping his tears as did he – on her cheeks.

Arnav groans through his vulnerable emotions – " its you who... gotta stop...dammit...Khushi...,"he wiped her tears away again and yet she just cried harder.

And Khushi glares back at him as fresh tears continued oozing out –" no....its you who gotta stop...dammit...Arnav...."

Arnav shakes his head,fresh tears leave his eyes over and over too,as he says his voice trembling – " nah I won't stop...until you do..."

Khushi glares ever harder at him – " and I won't stop...until you do...if you want me to...ache...and tremble in the process of..seeing you cry..this...way....then...you will have to witness the same...too...just....stop....you....stop.....dam..,"and the words mmit of dammit stay put in her mouth as she feels Arnav cover her lips with his hands now pulling her closer his vulnerable tearful gaze hovering over her face as he admits – " it was also good then...you weren't there...to see me cry for nights...on days......months.....that got converted into years...Khushi....without you....in fact....I still haven't dammit figured out a way to go on without you...I can't...I just freaking can't....I don't have it in me...anymore....too...I just don't have it in me anymore to go on without you....you have no idea...how....i'v lived....without...you....how.....I'v....butchered my withins...with my very own hands...every freaking single...day...without you....so...don't you freaking ask me to stop crying now....for I can't stop...now that you are finally here...in front of me...I just feel like I need to vent it all out...dammit.... ,"and with that – he just hugs her to himself all tight and hard and continues to cry and sob his heart out – holding onto her as if she were the most precious to him in the whole wide world. She was /is/always will be...

What could Khushi do then? In a moment as heartbreaking vulnerable as this one????? She just gave in – to her own emotions and just hugged him back as hard – and cried her heart out too! He sobbed in her arms, she sobbed in his arms. The only reason why their knees were giving them away was, because, the other was holding the other, in a secured embrace...

Perhaps – this was also a moment – they both needed to just go through in front of the other? Years, spent, crying in solace – could probably finally find its cathartic passage – of release? Now that they were finally crying it out in each other's arms!!!!!!!!

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40 Minutes Later

They helped each other with glasses of water now, after finally making their way to the kitchen area in the flat.

They'd both spent the last 30 minutes, crying their hearts out, holding onto each other tight – until about five minutes ago –when they both felt they needed to help each other with some water?And ended up asking – that to the other at the same time, as well, looking up finally at the other – after these heartwrenching vulnerable minutes..

Arnav had just laced his hands with Khushi's next and she said she just wanted to freshen up and wash her face first and so she stepped apart for a bit to do the same. Arnav, used the moments to freshen himself too and wash his face – with ice cold water – a gazziliion times over – before he finally walked out a couple of minutes later and saw Khushi waiting by the kitchen counter for him – with glasses of water filled – and they'd finally taken the assistance of H20 – in the moment.

( imagine a night setting on the out- the house within is obviously lit up)

Each gulped down atleast three glasses each, as Arnav continued to keep his emotional gaze up on Khushi as she drank the water and she continued to hold his gaze as well, studying each other's emotionally exhausted faces. He'd taken his leather jacket off and the scarf too and to Khushi's eye - the white button down shirt on him with the denim was like - another feast for her eye. It surely had to be illegal to be this irrestible??????

Thank god, she'd stopped crying for now, Arnav thinks and he says that to her on reflex now – " thank god...you finally stopped...crying...that...way...Khushi..."

And Khushi just looks at him direct as she says – " thank god...that you...finally...stopped...crying...that...way...Arna..v...feel any better though???"

Arnav nods at that sincerely as he admits – " I do feel better....Khushi...lighter...you??"

Khushi nods – "me too....I think we both needed the emotional release in front of the other...."

Arnav ends up admitting – " indeed....you have no idea..how long I'v been wanting to do that you know??"

Khushi's eyes widen at that – " you mean? cry that way? in my arms??"

Arnav nods and both their eyes find their way back to the other, holding each other's strongly and intently, as they take a step closer to the other – together.

( Arnavs look - minus the jacket, guitar and scarf - obviously)
......

Khushi whispers now softly, now her mind getting bombarded with the Why's – " Arnav......we really need to talk......k?I want my answers...dammit...I really need my answers....but..."

Arnav takes a step closer to Khushi again, even though she stands frozen in her spot now – " I know..we need...to talk...Khushi....but..what??as in why the but????"

Khushi says now looking straight at him – " but...I also think....we need to take it step by step, for our own sanity...perhaps? you saw us both in the last so many mins right?? there's mountain of emotional baggage apparently, on both our sides, we cannot unload it on the other just like.... all at once...it will drown us both...Arnav....leading us both to some...emotional apocalypse off some sort....yeah...I want my answers...we got so much to figure out...in between of us...but I feel...we like really need to take this step by step...as in...this quest of answers..that we seek from one another...we need to take that part of it bit by bit....how does this sound to you? give me your honest take on that?please?"

Arnav thinks that through for a bit and he asks folding his arms across his front studying her. It was clear,by the look on her face, shed thought this through– " hmmm...so...look....as long as you say...that you won't like shut me back...out...in the process/ off quest of your answers...I am okay with you wanting to take that part of it bit by bit...obviously...Khushi.....just tell me....you won't shut me out...in the processs....right??,"he pauses to ask – sinking worry evident in his eyes, face – all over again.

What was up with this Man????? Khushi thought.Didn't he know – his display of raw vulnerability over the same was messing her up – in the moment – way too much....

Khushi takes a step closer to him now – "well, it's not just about me....k? it's about you too....and no...I am not going to shut you out in the process..K? this is more about...like..me saying...I am figuring out a way for us to like figure things out going forward from here....??? You get what I mean??"

Arnav sighs in relief at that and nods just like that as he catches the thoughtful expression up her forhead – he feels a sudden change in the trajectory of just his vulnerable emotions to that off a cocktail off electric+vulnerable emotions. All he'd needed to hear was this, that she wasn't going to shut him out.

Also, Why did she have to look so adorable with that expression up her face.Not his fault for falling for it.He whispers now, taking another step closer – "that's a relief...Khushi..as long as ...you not shutting me out...I am game with whatever you say...but hey...listen... tell me...there's no way....you could have forgotten...what impact that thoughtful expression of your's usually had on me right??? note the point – please? apparently – that still hasn't changed...,"and his darkens on its own accord as he looks all over her, restraining his hands from pulling her to himself, and running them all over her deep and hard - with great difficulty again.

Khushi narrows her eyes at him at that.She obviously knew what that gaze meant, which is why she decides it was the time to also begin riling him up side by side – " ahaa? Really? point noted.K? also....what did I say about you not giving me that, look? Arnav? that look – that I am all you see? You sent it my way...all through out concert...too......look away...now..or atleast change the intensity of emotion/vibe...you sending my way...k?

And Arnav asks raising his eyebrow at her, taking a step closer to her – " why should I look away? when I know...its messing you up?riling you up too? You look away ..if you want to..Khushi...."

Khushi obviously wasn't going to look away and she takes a step closer to him at that in challenge – " I am not going to look away....k?"

Arnav asks taking a step closer to her – " why?"

Khushi shrugs but takes a step closer again – " I don't want too...k? that's why..."

Arnav grins – " great...because...I don't want to look away, too...Khushi...,"and his gaze turns a lot more heated as he looks at her all over – again.

Khushi feels her within's flush and melt at that all over.She was still dressed in her outfit from the concert - as was he. Suddenly, all that electric intensity in between the two had returned to get mixed crazily with the emotional vibe and Khushi now knew exactly where she wanted to steer this conversation too.

She says now softly walking up to the sofa in the living room – in order to give her heated insides some respite in the moment – " just....by the way....you were great...you know...on stage...at the concert...I was in awe...of you...Arnav....your singing talent...it really was amazing..."

Arnav smiles at that on reflex following her and he plonks himself on the sofa next to her and says – " thanks...Khushi...for that...but what really was more amazing for me, was the bit..that you were there...but I am sure...you know that very well, by now...don't you???,"and because he's curious now he asks – "so, anyway, you were saying something?about how you are in the middle of figuring out...how should we figure...this situation in between us...out..going forward....what's on your mind??"he asks. Please just say, you'll be mine, though. Through the process.Take all your time, Khushi to seek your answers. But just be mine....for I won't be able to stay without..you...by my side...a day longer...a second...longer...even...His eyes send her out this silent plea, hoping desperately she'll catch it.

Khushi does catch it – and to rile him further only because it was thrilling her as well – she turns to face him at that now, taking a deep breathe, bringing all of her hair to one side - knowing very well that Arnav's heated gaze was going to find its way to linger longer on her neck, shoulder which were bare and sure enough when she looked at him again – she found his gaze doing just that before they fall on her legs again- as her skirt had hitched up a little in the process of turning to face him - and she hears him whisper now getting up from the sofa, sending a curse under his breathe – "godammit...you...woman.... perhaps, for my own sanity in the moment....I should sit on that chair across...or trust me...we might not be able to get any talking done...at all...you know what I mean? right?,"And with that he gets up to walk across and pull the chair in front off Khushi – but at a safe distance – giving his burning insides some cool.

Khushi bites back her smile at that as she says – " well...yes...I know..what you mean...Arnav...like how old am I now? do you take me to be a fool or what? you know I'v never been the coy when it comes to that context too....I am sure...you remember...and last I remember, that's common in between of us...you'v never been coy on that accord too."

Of course, he rememberd...it in all detail. The two had been quite the active participant in getting the other undone, off the cliffs of passion, through out their long distance on calls, video calls, or texts even.Even though they didn't end up meeting – there was enough said, expressed and felt in between the two – to keep their passionate imaginations for the other – in tow! And he knew, why she was reminding him the very same in the moment – obviously...to just keep getting under his skin....it was thrilling her ...perhaps?

Arnav shifts back in his seat again and shoots her a heated desire gaze his gaze lingering on her legs lazily – " damm....look at you...woman...so freaking gorgeous...gotta admit...me having a hard time...catching on a breathe here....."

Khushi bites back her smile at that as she takes the rubber band on her wrist and ties her hair messily up – knowing it would rile him up further like it used to in the past and she says raising her eye at him – "really???ahhan??? it's alright....I get it... breathe....Arnav...breathe..."

Arnav narrows his eyes at her at that as he says again – " get talking now...five seconds...now...if you wana get any conversation done...Khushi....don't test my patience at the moment...please??"

Khushi nods at that as she smiles victoriously – " alright...alright....ill get talking.."

Arnav asks his mind to shift its focus off her gorgeous legs, or that neckline, that sharp shoulderblade...He gulps it all down with great difficulty and he asks – " okay....so.... what's the plan??Khushi?? how are we figuring this out??????????"

Khushi says now – " so...the plan is..everyday..we probably give ourselves like a timed window...to like just go into talks of the past??? Like literally timed minutes on the timer.......for we both know..it will begin to get overwhelming...then...for us both...we can take either 11 minutes/22 minutes..for those are both our lucky numbers...depending on the situation...context of discussion on the other's mind....but once that's over..we just switch back...to focusing on the present...yeah...it will be like a tug on and off more like a -to and fro – but either ways it will be better for my sanity...otherwise...like I said...I'll just have to name you...Apocalypse Singh Raizada..then..."

That makes Arnav chuckle a little of course – " really? so not just an asteroid...am a Apocalypse now??"

Khushi narrows her eyes at him – " not funny, rockstar..you know...you most surely have the capacity...to be that..to my being...just like...you can be the Zen too...the respite...too...oh you know what I mean....you can drive me up the wall in madness but its only who can bring me down as gently after....."

Arnav nods and locks his gaze with hers again, for it was impossible for his eyes to like not feast on hers – " I do...know..that...and...fair enough...you know...you have the capacity to be that to my being...too...right? Khushi?? you are my zen...you are my thunder..too...you'v always been just that one stop – everything..I'd ever..need...just please know....that hasn't changed...."

Khushi nods at that and she says next in explanation – " Okay, yes, so getting back to the context...I also think its only fair...that we give each other like a headsup..when we wana like dash into the past?also, let's just talk about it when we meet like? Face to face? No point – trying to unload angst of the past – on text/call -it won't work as a catharsis for either of us then...I guess the only way it will bring either of us the relief/respite in the unload process is if we are in front of each other..."

Arnav nods at that, for it does seem a fair enough point.It felt better to cry when she was holding him – in her embrace– " well, that's a fair point too. I agree Khushi,"and then he asks instantly– " so...wait...how long are you in Sydney for..exactly?? before you head to Tasmania???"

"another week....Arnav...you?,"she asks – " when do you leave to Melbourne? You have your next event there.."

Arnav nods a smile coming up on hips on its own accord. Finally , fate was being kind to him – " yes, I do, but as it turns out, we will be here for another week too, as our event in Melbourne is in eight days from now, and we somehow got better arrangements for practice here, in Sydney...because we are performing a whole set of different numbers on that event...obviously lot of crazy prep..in store....so,we will only head to Melborune, the evening before the event.... which technically means, we are both still here...for the next seven days....in Sydney...,"and he grins – " I love that...so...just to be clear...you meeting me on all these days, right? I know...the evening before your diving days...you will rush early...but otherwise...please say? You'll be able to give me all your hours??so that we can spend some quality time together? I'll keep all my hours...post practice...just for you too.... Works?"

Khushi nods at that biting back her smile – " yes, it works...."

Arnav grins at that feeling his heart go into disco mode already – " great....great...so freaking...great that is...,"and he gets so excited that he gets up from the chair to go get his phone from the kitchen slab – " let me check out my phone...there's so much to do in Sydney...gosh...Khushi...where do you wana go tomorrow?evening? it's just editing, compiling day for you right? you will get free by 4? I'll get done by then too....as we begin practice tomorrow at 10...maybe we..can...plan to go....somewhere...af..te...r...,"and it is right then - he pauses in his excited rant...the tides of vulnerable emotions returning to consume all of him – again.

Why?

Because – he just hears Khushi's voice from up closer behind him singing in a voice loaded with unfiltered emotion - now in the sync and tune off – " kyun....khwabon pe..tere saaye hai...dil kyun hai..tanha..mera...kyun khamoshi hai...zuban meri...ashkon se..keh paun...na.....kyun...dard...hai...itna...tere...ishq...mein...rabba...ve...rabba...ve....rabba ve...rabba ve..."

And he statues in his spot – as vulnerable emotions drown him, instantly. Did Khushi just sing the lyrics – he'd written for her – in front of him for the very first time??????? He couldn't react. He couldn't move. He stood still.

Khushi had obviously wanted to talk about his gift to her – so that it could lead to the first timer minute window of conversation about the past from her end that – she wanted to get on with today and as she was thinking how to bring it up, as he'd walked to pick up his phone - she'd felt herself sing the words out on reflex, emotions returning to consume her too – as she held the gift box in her hand, taking it out of her bag and walked up to him from behind.

She observes, Arnav's statued in his spot now and she takes a step closer towards him again as she whispers sure her singing wasn't great but it served the purpose decently - " kyun khwabon pe tere saaye hai...dil kyun hai tanha..mera...kyun...khamoshi hai zubaan meri....ashkon se keh paaun na.....kyun....dard...hai...itna....tere....ishq...mein.....rabba ve....rabba...ve....rabba...ve....rabba...ve.......,"and she pauses as she says – " that's a heads up to you...Arnav...I want my timed minute window for conversation into the past...window..now....works?"

Arnav couldn't move.

He still couldn't react? Why? Because just as he's heard that from her again – he's reminded off the haunting aching moment – when he wrote those lyrics out for the first time – wiping his aching tears – thinking off her. And it is also right then it hits him , instantly, that the only reason – she could be singing just this right now was....if she already saw.....

And at that he instantly turns around and asks fighting his emotions – " you saw the contents in the gift box????????didn't you????when???????????,"and he sees Khushi's eyes well up and nod at him at that as she explains now clutching the notebook to her heart preciously – " I did see...yes.......not on purpose though...it fell of my hand..and then...I couldn't stop..K? I just had to see it...I saw...it...right...before the concert...began actually....why do you think I ran off like that when you finished singing Rabba Ve?? Arnav??"

And as the dots connect now – in his head and heart, his eyes widen further. He hears Khushi say now putting on the 22 minute timer on her phone – " my timer window – starts. I am taking 22 minutes – to begin with.And I do have a significant number of why's to begin – I recommend you answer in our rapid fire mode – Arnav....detailed explanations...can follow...after? Only minor explanations allowed...I am sure...you remember this mode of ours very well?? Right???? now...be....ready with k? this quest of our answers from each other – totally needs to happen in this rapid fire mode...unfiltered...upfront...and quick...."

Arnav is the one to now gape at her shocked and frazzled this time around, as the memories of the past hits – " you really want me to answer you in our rapid fire mode?????"

It was something they used to do with each other in the past – when wanting to get instant rapid truth out of the other related to contexts/talks/thoughts/feelings. Damm, this woman,he thought. If she went all rapid-fire mode on him now – how was he going to keep the actual truth hidden?

In the past,he'd always ended up blurting – the truth out to her in this zone of conversation, just like she did, which is why she'd planned this. Clever, one, she always was.

Arnav instructs his, mind to begin working/resoaking the back up story in his head so that it sounds convincing – enough to her – if the context comes up -

Khushi asks again now studying his emotional vibe keeping the notebook back in her bad – "you seem like you are getting set for it in your head already? Arnav?so.... ready?? Shall we take a seat?then Arnav??also...ill keep this with me...k?"

Arnav whispers – " I want you to have it...Khushi...why do you think I gifted it to you..."

Khushi nods , emotions beginning to bubble up and simmer too – "okay...kool....thanks for this...now....remember...our old rule remains...if you are quick enough...you can...use..the time in the window remaining to ask me anything...too...I will answer....honestly....obviously...."

Arnav nods at that as he says composing his emotions – " alright...let's do this...,"and Khushi gestures him to walk to the sofa again and she follows and they both take a seat across each other and she keeps her phone on the table and says – " very basic questions to begin with Arnav, the ones...I feel like I need an answer to on priority...and remember....we gotta keep our eyes and full focus on each other...in the process...that's our rule...you do remember?right?"

Arnav nods – " yes I do...remember...,"and Khushi switches on the timer finally and Arnav says feeling all transported back to the good old days when they'd do this – " alright...am set...you.....shoot...,"as he keeps his gaze fixed with hers.

Khushi begins – " so, first thing out - I wana know – what were you trying to imply with gifting me your precious Rabba ve notes - notebook? I have sensed it – obviously. But my mind says it wants to hear – so is it really that you wanted me to finally know, that you wrote the lyrics for me? true? Did you or did you not write those lyrics thinking off me??????

Arnav nods instantly sure she could read the underlying emotion in her voice – " its true, I wrote it for you...thinking of you..only for you..Khushi....,"and he sees her eyes well up at that more, but she doesn't pause adhering to the rules of their rapid fire mode and says nodding – " okay...got that..next question...do you really think off me? everytime you sing?? Am I your muse/inspiration behind everything music/your singing? I sensed the vibe you were sending my way...from stage...also Syna kinda spilled a lot of beans on that...but maybe, I wana hear it from you again– directly.So, Is it true?

Arnav's eyes widen at that on reflex – " wait..what the? When did you meet Syna?and What did she even tell you?she recognised you? oh yeah...she's seen a pic of you....wait..what did she tell you?? Khushi?"

Khushi shakes her head – "well...she spilled enough beans for me to know...that deep down you are still the Arnav...I knew....but...detailed explanations on that later...rockstar..you freaking answer me...first...is this true??????"

Arnav nods and admits instantly on reflex – " true...its true...you are the only one...I'v thought off every time I sing...you are the only one who can stir up so much emotion in me...Khushi..."

Khushi feels her very own eyes well up at that again, but she doesn't pause and continues – " got it...next question...on a scale of 1-100...what percentage would you account to the bit of me being in your system..still?? as in...you know in terms of emotional storage occupancy?do I still occupy your system?? If yes, than what's the percentage.."

Arnav was loving these questions, actually, because they were giving him an exact peekaboo into her mind.Did she really say? She didn't want to drown herself in the process of this quest of Answers? Who was she kidding? Even though, she was trying to keep up the act, he knew, she was asking these questions driven by her subconscious mind – with the aim of wanting to be emotionally drowned? Perhaps – she was as thrilled as he was – at finally feeling something in the heart in the present today? At finally, feeling the other wise dead, dormant corners come to Life?????

Quite, the determined, inquisitive one, she always was. He's glad that hasn't changed. He fell for that trait – quite hard – yet again.

He sees Khushi snap a finger at him in reminder to answer quickly gesturing to the timer and he says now boldly staring at her – "so, that's an easy peasy one...Khushi...you never freaking left my system...which means...you don't just occupy it...you consume it...in deep ways that are freaking unexplainable in words...so on the scale of 1-100....i'd say...a 1000 percent? Perhaps?or make that a hundred thousand? Or just label it as – infinite – perhaps?"

Dammmmmmmm Him! Freaking! Asteroid Singh Raizada – Thinks Khushi as she gulps down her emotions at that, he literally hit a sixer with that, but without giving muchof her emotional turmoil away she asks next, kind of exhilarated within to be finally feeling so much in her being –" okay...alright..infinite it is....got it...next question...so...how long have you been single for???? exactly how long????????exact freaking duration...please????????"

Arnav, in his gut knew that was coming next, so he was prepped which is why he says keeping up with his cover story – " Six years 11 months....Khushi...I'v been single for 6 years 11 months now....that's the exact freaking duration..."

Now that freaking shocks the daylights out of Khushi's eyes for she was not expecting him to say that.Did that mean – he only dated the other woman he met after – for one month????????? That's it????? Technically, then she'd dated longer. Her dating stints lasted a little over month with both the guys.Jeeezzzzz!

She asks now on reflex – " whatttttttttttttttttttttttttt??????? What the freaking hell?? What did you just say?????? Six years 11 months?????????? You'v been single for that long? You just dated whoever it was you met? For like a one month? After me?? One month??????you better freaking explain this...now....like are you saying? I spent years, thinking godammit what not about you? when all you dated apart from me? was a month?????????"

Arnav chuckles at that as he says – " detailed explanations later...my sweetheart..our...rules...remember? just ask me your next question...,"and he bites back his chuckle at that again for he sees Khushi's anger reach her eyes at that which she controls with great difficulty as she says – "damm you...hell...fine...there is a freaking detour from my original question list, obviously, all thanks to you...so, next question....why did you just date whoever this other girl was..for just a month???????????if you were freaking craving a real time relationship so bad – then?over our virtual one?like isn't that why you freaking walked away?????????"

Arnav curses himself within for covering up on that bit again – for their very pact of this Rapid Fire in between them– had been unfiltered honesty – but he couldn't give her that, completely so decides to go on with the rest part of the truth that came along eventually after covering up on the former bit – "just a freaking month... because, it took me just that while...to realise...that I was a freaking fool to think that I could be with anyone else but you, for you were all I thought off...even when..I.....attempted to date....otherwise....it felt so ethically wrong then...to be with someone else...when all I thought off was...You....I am sure...you understand where I am coming on that...don't you...Khushi? I mean you confessed that to me...in the green room....right?the reason why you ended it with those guys you dated – was this – right? for all you thought off was me...?so yeah same for me...but yup...a month was enough for me to realise what a grave mistake it had been on my part...it freaking hit me right then again that virtual or whatever be dammed – you are the only one I wanted to be in relationship with....ever.....that you are the only one I have ever loved/could ever love in this life.....k?now...go ..on...anyway...next question...,"and he eyes the timer and Khushi's widened – " go on..its ticking...your timer...,"he grins.

Again to think of it – he was quite enjoying this...watching the array of emotions on Khushi's face.He really was messing her up. He loved that. He was sure she was going to snap out the next question at him. In anticipation, he just continues staring at her, boldly.

Khushi gulps down her cocktail of emotions at that as his steely gaze roams all over her and she snaps in irritation on reflex and her confusion is evident – " the next question has just been subjected to change again – tell me, what the hell were you doing for all these years then? if this is how you felt????????about me?? if that's how you freaking felt...why did this silence last for this long????? In between of us?????? Why didn't you make effort to get in touch prior??????why didn't you...dammit?????????"

And Arnav knew that was coming up next in his gut again and apart from Rajesh Maan's context he decides to go with the truth that became more of the context after eventually – he'd made it to that success spot.His eyes darken with pain and angst now as he answers – " what the hell was I doing?all these years? What do you think?? Khushi?? freaking dying in guilt and embarrassment...of how to even show my face to you...again...of how to look at you in the eye....I hated myself....for what happened...that I ruined...what we had....wanted to punish myself..for it...and so I recoiled into shell...of guilt...and as days passed into months into years...another fear took over..that what if I seeked you out in the present...only to discover if you were dating someone else????????? I felt like I'd just die then..within. Seeing someone else in your life would freaking kill me....another reason why I never asked Matthew Dad/Mini Maa about you was this too – I knew any info of you would be a temptation to seek you out....and I just feared seeing hate in your eyes for me as well...I feared that so freaking much..so freaking much..for years...and then I fell into a vicious circle of blame game with Fate. That maybe, it was fate that wanted it this way for us, that perhaps?we weren't meant to be?????? So yeah – your question on - What have I been doing all the rest of my years – synopsis is – I'v just been living in a freaking emotional hell...dammit....that I solely take full responsibility for....i know I wronged you immense in the process...for that...I am sorry...I really am....but know this...Khushi...the only think that kept me going sane, were my deep feelings for you, and your memorirs.... which I kept pouring into my music....like I still do......and infact that's what led me to where I am today...if I have become who I have...its also because of you...dammit......why do you I think I caught your eye when I sang that line up on stage? Main tera sarmaya hun...jo bhi main..ban paya...hun...tumse...hi...sab tumse hi toh hai...Khushi....tum ho toh sab hai...nai toh...kuch bhi nai...main bhi nai...mujhme se tumhe nikal diya jaaye...toh Arnav..tumhe...milega hi nai...main kuch bhi nai hun tumhare begair......(everything is from you only dammit...you are there..everything is there...otherwise nothing..just emotions remains...if you take take yourself out of me...you won't even find Arnav...I am nothing without you..dammit...".,"he finishes knowing very well that his rant accounted for an outburst – that had Khushi taken aback. It was a longer explanation, but she hadn't stopped him mid way – because she probably wanted him to keep going on with it too.

Khushi couldn't help but tremble at that. How could she not????????????? He had been going through all of this???????????Also, she felt her heart relate a lot on the latter in the matters of the heart tgat– there really was so much of him in her system still – with the potency of memories/bond/that take him out of her heart and one would only find ghostly remains of her angst....

But somehow, she keeps up with the zone also because she was on the verge of crying again and she didn't want too – just yet - so she decides to get under his skin only because he'd got under hers again – "okay....i get that.....so...next question...then what changed now? dammit? what made you come out of that shell of guilt?????vicious circle of blame game with fate???????like what magic suddenly happened – for you to finally zone out of that zone huh????? I am curious to know...I can make an exception to the rule, you can explain – a little more if you want....,"she glared at him, which was a signal. You better explain – more – dammit.

Arnav admits now – " so, this used to happen quite a bit always, anyway, but for the last couple of years – the frequency went up – quite significantly. I often began choking in my voice - when extremely emotional love songs came my way – which kind off was like a signal to me that I was reaching a threshold within....but it got worse that night...that day actually....I couldn't freaking sing/practice in front of the band at all...which was why...back at home...I just tried to pull it up through....but I choked again...after the first four lines...."

Khushi interrupts her eyes widening – " when was this?"

Arnav admits – " just a shortwhile before I asked your number from Mini Maa.."

Khushi – " what song was this?"

Arnav admits – " ae dil hai mushkil..title track..during practice...for my last concert in Mumbai....towards the end of Feb..."

Khushi eyes widen at that as memory returns.She'd heard this.Seen This. Seen him up online – " wait...what??????that recently? The concert in which you had that casual blue blazer on??????"

Arnav nods – " indeed, that very one...,"and he asks now grinning on reflex – " wait..wait...you saw???online??"

Khushi snaps back at him now - " your rapid fire...not mine...rockstar..continue...answer that first question..sorry for the trail of questions...after...my bad...what made you come out of your zone? What triggered it??"

Arnav bites back his smile but admits – " I like how you call me rockstar with that glint in your eye...correction...Khushi....I love it..i mean...I'v heard it...so many times...in reference..to my self...through the media and stuff...but damm...the word..neevr seemed more endearing than it does...in your voice...that way....that tone...damm...please note..this is right where...I fall hard for you again...in the present...for the present you..."

Khushi glares at him harder at that with the look – don't you go there now and Arnav winks at her – " damm...you'r killing me woman....so freaking gorgeous...you just took my breathe away...again...."

When her gaze turns more steely now , he chuckles and answers – " alright, alright.....ill answer, so I was obviously talking about it to Aman and Meera that day and in that vulnerable moment – I just realised that I was freaking done being caught up in that vicious circle of my own mind's insecurities/blame game with fate. It just freaking hit base..that it never is fate...just the choices we make and the consequences that follow...and when that hit...hard...I just realised that I had no one to blame but myself....the consequences that came my way were because of the choices I made...I worked on that thought within....and finally gathered up the courage to seek you out...to cut the long story short – I just felt like I was done holding it all in – I was just done – I had reached the threshold my heart could take, as if it knew, it just didn't have it in it to go on that way – anymore – without you.....it would burst/collapse...otherwise....."

Khushi process all of that in and just continues to glares at him at that as the words fall out her mouth on relfex – " really? wow....freaking genius...such a genius you are.....the grammy of being genius...lets give it to you...,"And she rolls her eyes at him in disbelief – " like....genius my freaking foot...next question...had you like lost your mind??????? Were you a fool?oh don't answer that – for I will...indeed you were...like..the fool of the highest order .....what if I had actually moved on for good?with someone else????? Like are you crazy?????why did you just have to fear? Seeing me with someone else?so freaking much anyway??? Why would it kill you??so much so , that you freaking preferred to stay in a closed comfort circle for all these years...dammit???????"

Arnav's eyes darken further in deep emotion at that as he says – " do not give that what if to me ever again?Khushi? for I have lived in that what if hell for these many years anyway! I don't even want to think of it in my head...the fact remains...that is not the case at your end....right??"

Khushi glares at him as she snaps – " not my rapid fire, rockstar...reminder again...."

Arnav continues – " I know...but ill just say it....that I am freaking glad to discover...that...that wasn't the case for either of us...you tell me...arent you glad to discover...how long I'v been single for????"

Khushi narrows her eyes – " not my turn too...give answers..."

Arnav glares at her now – " dammit...please..."

Khushi says now frustrated moreso with herself and him – " ofcourse, it makes me glad...but I am like so freaking mad at you for this...like are you crazy??? Why did you have to be caught up in that vortex for so long???? Don't you realise...you not only punished yourself...but me too....dammit....I am like really mad at you..right now...really....like...how dare you? ya? All you had to do was...peek my way once...dammit...."

Arnav reaches out to hold her hand at that – " indeed I am mad at myself too, Khushi...you have every right to be mad at me...k? but either ways, that doesn't change the fact that I am freaking glad to discover – that despite the time lost – despite the fact that we weren't in each other life's for all these years – something still kept us freaking attached to each other....The Potent...Invisible Strings...of our emotions for each other on account of what was/what we were to one another....still kept us connected...even though visibly we weren't around....cmon Khushi...you cannot freaking deny this...you feel this...right...this vibe in between of us...so freaking intense...the only reason its possible for it to be this way...is that we were never really disconnected – this string from my heart to yours and your heart to mine – kept us connected...which is why..it feels like we are back to beginning from where we left..off...from...all those years ago...all because....of these Invisible Strings of Our Emotions...like thank god for that," he finishes – gesturing to the vibe in between the too – as if it were like that potent hold/wire.

Khushi just clutches on his hand, because she couldn't seem to let go.NO matter what, she couldn't deny the existence of these Potent Invisible Strings too. What other logic could explain the situation anyway - that even after all these years - a couple of days were enough to drive each other to that same familiar spot of soul consuming emotion??She whispers now – " just stop rendering me speechless...k?? like just answer that bit you skipped...first? why did you have to feel like it would kill you...to seek me out in the present...say if I was dating...someone else???"

Arnav says now honestly – "it always felt like it would kill me within - because, in my heart, in my soul,atleast in my freaking imagination by then – you were/are still Mine.... Khushi. In the depth of my mind and heart - every inch of you is mine, mine to touch, mine to explore, mine to love, mine to mark – as mine.I'v loved you every freaking day/night for years – in my head – dammit. I was too afraid to face the reality, which in my mind most surely could be a probability...so like a freaking coward...I had preferred to stay in my shell...only to realise...now...what a fool I'd been? Because in the green room when you mentioned about dating – all I wanted to know was if those guys treated you well.Respected you, well.First. Envy took a backseat...even though...I'v freaking burnt and yearned for you..for years..... and just concern...took over.But, yes, every bit of me within was also cursing myself again though...for it just felt like am the one to blame..to give anyone else the room...to get in your life...right? if I hadn't ever...left......we...we...,"and he pauses as he sees Khushi trembling and tremoring in emotion as tears finally began to leave her eyes as she whispered back looking at the timer, pausing it wiping her tears – " still five minutes more left on the timer...but I am done...Arn...av....for now...I won't be able to soak in any more...emotionally....at the moment...I just can't...sorry...ill just freshen up...and be back....k?,"and and begins to get up from her seat.

Khushi needed to get away to Breathe, and control her haywire emotions, for all the potent intensity with which – Arnav had just answered the former part off last bit had shooketh her immense. Spinned her world off its very core.Zillion times.She knew he was telling the truth.It was on his face. His eyes was all bare and open...in front of her....all vulnerable...unfiltered....raw...

And probably why it had hit base deep with was also because – it had been the same for her in context of the former. For years, in her imagination – he was still – Hers.....

Oh, how she needed the support of some water to cool down her heated withins...

But just as Khushi is about to go towards the washroom – she feels Arnav's hand shoot out to hold hers instantly as he says standing up close behind her – " no....don't go...I know...you don't..wana freshen up....please...I know...this is you just walking away....but....just don't go away...Khushi...,"and with that she is surprised as he instantly pulls her back closer, flush to himself and buries his face in her neck and wrapping his hands across her waist hugging her from behind, he whispers – " please, don't walk away from me..right now?Khushi?? please?????? I am sorry...if I overwhelmed you with all that potent intensity...it all just came out in the flow......Khushi...because...its freaking true...you'c cracked upon a lid...with these questions...how can..the fizz that had bubbling within for years...not flood out this way....."

And Khushi feels herself shiver and tremble in his arms now, and this time it wasn't just out of intense emotions, but more out off the electric voltage shock that just ran through her at his embrace and his burning hands on her waist that were grazing against the midriff skin her dress was giving him access too at the center.

He had buried his head into the crook of her neck &shoulder which was also bare (because of her outfit's styling)– and she felt her shoulder burn at the touch of his stubble on it. Hadn't she freaking dreamed off feeling it under her hands?For years? Her shoulder was clearly beaming in glee at the moment as was her ear – at the feel of his hot breathe in it as he asked in a whisper again – " I'll let you go...if that's what you want...I don't want you to be uncomfortable...I only just hugged you this way...because I didn't want you to walk away...but....I'll let go...if....that's what you truly want me to do..in the moment......,"and with that – he's about to move a little, because Arnav had sensed if he stayed that close to her a second longer – the two might as well – dunk themselves in a can of petrol – and be ready to be burnt to the core after – for that matchstick with its spark – was surely right around the corner. That's how freaking electric and amazing it was feeling to hold her up this close. To feel the vibe of her energy – consume his being – in real time and not just in his imaginations. The fact that she hadn't moved away or pushed him away yet – also wasn't helping his cause, it was instead give him hope....that...perhaps? she was also feeling as shaken as him to finally discover – how good this felt?Finally????? In real time???????

Arnav reminded himself – that he must just pull back now for he was already in the process of burning deeply within but it is also right then Khushi surprises him as she holds his hands tight on her waist back as she whispered leaning her head back against him now in surrender – "no....don't let go....no..w...Ar..na..v...don..'t let go...just hold...me...tighter...inste...ad....please??,"and before Arnav can happily oblige to that she herself just clasps her hands tighter on his on her waist as the words leave her mouth on reflex – " this feels...so...good..."

That's it.She'd set him ablaze. Arnav whispers into her ear again – his hand lazily making its way to caress her midriff through her outfit, loving the way she shivered in his arms – " I know...it does...right??? freaking amazing...ten seconds...Khushi...I am giving you ten seconds...to walk away from me right now if you want too....I haven't freaking touched anyone in years...and all I'v done is dreamt of you....in so many freaking intimate ways...so...if you continue to stand in the circle of my arms this way...you will freaking unleash...a massive fire...right here...actually you already have....but...only because I respect you insane...I am giving you a choice again – choose fast dammit...you are playing with fire...dammit..."

Khushi doesn't move an inch obviously for all she wanted in the moment was to just bask in the feel of what her heart had been aching for, for years now – as she feels herself drown and succumb into the vortex this man was - to her being - and she whispers leaning back a little more – " damm you....apocalypse...singh...raizada....crazy of me...to think...that we could avoid...getting drowned....also...just so you know....flash news...rockstar....I haven't been touched in a long time....too....crazy?right???which is why...I can't help but bask in the feel of your arms around me..."

That obviously riles Arnav up crazily as he now turns Khushi by the arm now to make her eyes meet his, for he just felt a crazy need to look at her face in the moment as his electric gaze searches her and he asks – " can I get...those remaining minutes on the timer?to ask you whatever I want? I won't go the emotional...route...much...I know...you'v had enough to soak in....can I stick to the context of this otherwise electric fire blazing in between us...in the background???,"he asks caressing his hands on her arms – making her shiver again.Not just shiver.Burn.

Khushi's gaze bears into his and her reflexes take over – " yeah...okay...fair enough...I mean...we cannot like not address that....its so freaking crackling and obvious......"

Arnav beams at that as he asks – " you wana sit down? Next to me? closer?not the far edge of the sofa please?more like center?"

Khushi nods.

He offers her hand – his gaze holding hers again.She takes it. That crackle of fire in the air – had reached quite the flame, as the two took their seats on the sofa again, facing each other, but closer.

Khushi says now starting the timer– " shoot...Arn..av...make it rapid......ill be as honest as I can be..."

Arnav begins – " do you mind if I hold your hand right now??"

Khushi shakes her head – " nope, I wouldn't mind..."

Arnav whispers – " give it to me then.."

She does, and he laces his hand through her right one – the freaking jolt of electricity – jolting them both up, again.She doesn't look away.Nor does her.

Arnav asks next – " I wana run my hand over your shoulder blade...just feel your neck line...caress it too? Can I?"

Khushi nods – " yes....you can..," and on reflex she should have closed her eyes right?at that? But – Nah. She kept it bang open and boldly locked with Arnav's even though everything within her burnt – as he slowly and lazily caressed her right side of the neck, his sensuous touch now lingering deep on her shoulder blade and as his electric gaze holds her, her gaze surely conveying the rest to him, she hears him ask, now pulling her on top of him suddenly, so that she was straddling him as he continued to caress her neckline – his fiery gaze holding her now fiercly lit ones - "do you think? You can forgive me?Khushi? for being the coward of the decade? For taking this long? To come seek you out???????"

Khushi had decided to be as honest as she could be so she brushes her hand on his right cheek stubble – basking in the feel of it finally as she whispers keeping her forehad on his, loving that he was trembling as much as she was as his hands wrapped around her waist and adjusted her closer onto him making both their breath hitch on them – " I can try....Arna...v...I mean, I am willing to make an effort to try...there is no point...hurting each other...with hide and seek anymore...we'v both been hurt enough ...in our own spheres...because of the other...also yes......I mean...I do feel like I owe you an apology, for presuming and assuming the worst of what...media wrote.....too...I misjudged you in my head.....greatly...."

Arnav shakes his head at that and tightens his hand on her waist from one side loving the way the fiery heat was now high in its current flow through both their bodies – " nah...you don't...owe me any apology...k?I gave you a premise...to...fall back on...you better not bring that up again,,k?,"and as he sees her nod and frown a little whilst caressing his left cheek now he asks leaning to whisper in her ear now, opening her hair tie in the process – " what's the frown about??,"and he tucked her loose strand of hair behind her one ear...before his fingers..caressed her earlobe. Godammit – was he freaking crazy?to be going mad at just feel of her soft earlobe in his hand??????

Khushi ends up moving a little at that making him groan and she clutches on his tee for there was something crazily electric in the way he was caressing her earlobe.Godammit. If this was how impacted she was – with just that touch? What was going to become of her? When he finally kissed her??

She is right on that thought – when she feels him whisper softly in her ear again before kissing it softly – "what was that frown about?? Khushi?? the timer is not.off yet...don't you cheat in my rapid fire..."

Khushi finally pushes him back at that making him lean back against the sofa and she whispers keeping her forhead on his again - "so, the frown was about....for a long time, after, you like vanished......I just kept blaming myself...thinking...maybe...if I could have gone to see you prior...if I didn't make you wait to see me for four long years...then perhaps...things could have been different....I felt like I had faulted you deeply...let you down...deeply....in our relationship...I felt like...perhaps – I just tested your patience too much...and you ran out off it which was fair enough to my conscious mind then...so then...it came down to the insecurity that perhaps...I couldn't ever be enough? For you??going forward????? I just felt...like...deep down,..as..if...it was all my fault ya...so I ...I.... ,"and she is surprised as Arnav tugs on his hand into her hair at that and whispers cupping her face, holding it intimately between his hands, one finger coming to shh her lips – " shhhh....just....shhh.....no....no...freaking no..dammit...it was never your fault...Khushi...never...and you are all I'd always need....always..this was me...messing up..royally.....thats it...and we both...faced..the consequences...of my royal mess up.....I am sorry...I am so so sorry....,"and she sees him close his eyes in sheer agony again.

Khushi whispers now her eyes soaking in the potent level of agony on his face - " I'll kill you if you go on another agony guilt trip...within..or something...right now...Arnav...that's not why I said what I did....I don't want you to succumb to guilt...if I'd wanted that...I wouldn't be here...right now...in your embrace this intimately...yeah...I could be mad at you...but that's a different shade of emotion...which we will deal with...but....I don't want you to go into guilt.....,"and she whispers rubbing a tear outta the corner of his eye – "don't please? don't do this to yourself/or me right now??also this is where I remind you...you are straying away from the context of your rapid fire...don't go the emotional route again...we had to stick to another context...remember?"

Arnav had closed his eyes in agony because it butchered him within to hear Khushi say that she'd blamed herself for it all for a long time.If only , she knew..... But, as Khushi says that but - he snaps his eyes open at that as he asks his gaze searching hers – I did really stray in context – right???????"

Khushi nods – " Indeed, you did?.."

Arnav – "Shall I get back to it.."

Khushi eyes the timer – " why not?when, you have a couple of minutes.."

Arnav asks the one thing he'd desperately wanted to know cupping her face his thumb caressing her cheek holding her firmly on him again so that the straddling of her on top – continued to simmer and sizzle the current in between the two – " okay...my next question...then...back to context....do you want me?? you know I want you. I came for you. Khushi.I made it very clear – I want you back in every freaking capacity...do you feel like...you want the same? Even one percent? And say, even if its one percent? Do you think? There could be a possibility – that we can figure all this out that we have too – unloading all the baggage of the past through – catching up etc - whilst being together? Do you think – you can at least think about it?????Be mine...please? I cannot go a second...longer without you.....I freaking want it all in....I want it bad...so bad....,"and he keeps his gaze locked with hers, as he sees her stay silent for a couple of seconds - before he reminds her – " my timer..is running out...answer me dammit..."

Khushi says now clutching his wrist – "so....the whole point of me being here...is that.... I am not going to throw the present under the bus...Arna..v...k? like I hinted... I need it...to help me wade through the baggage of the past..we both need that....no point in me...trying to get back at you...for like zoning out by zoning out on you today...what will it lead to? Just years of ache more?for both of us??? Nah.I think I am done with that too.I am tired of aching...I want my heart, my body, my soul to come alive.....in the ways...it hasn't for all this while – K?"

Arnav groans his eyes lingering on her quivering lips now for even though he did get what she was hinting, he wanted her to be more direct, upfront– " dammit...this is not the time to go cryptic on me..Khushi...answer..me cut clear...do you want me??"

Khushi acts on reflex now cupping his face tenderly caressing his cheek with her thumb just like he was, and she whispers – " Yes, I want you – k?"

Arnav feels like he's going to burn in part happiness and part desire at that as he asks next his thumb now going to caress her lower lip, loving the way she shivered under the affect – " are you sure??????Khushi??,"and just as he spots Khushi's gaze get a lot more electric and darkened, as she nods, he asks – " once again....given that the timer hasn't still buzzed on me...I push my luck...you freaking answer me now..dammit...Khushi...all these years..in your intimate imaginations...who did you think off???? You know...I freaking thought of you...every single..time...executing all that we used to talk in our intimate conversations during our long distance...to just...you....a million times...over...and over...in my imaginations...I wana know...who is it that you thought off......"

Jeez! He was already burning her with his gaze and words right now, but she wasn't the one to back off in the moment.She could clearly see he was as affected as she was.Khushi admits loving the way his lips were now quivering as hers as her thumb caressed it – " You....I thought of you...Arn..a..v....and copy that to the latter too...."

Arnav feels himself tremble in sheer desire for her at that as he asks his thumb caressing both her lips now,a lot more intensely as she closes her eyes – "so.....good...great....next question....you wouldn't mind...say...if I kiss you now?touch you now? like a mad man possessed? Do you want me to kiss you/touch you...like a man mad possessed??Khushi?????"

Khushi shivers in desire herself.Years, off pent up bubbles – threatning to flood off the surface again as she admits opening her eyes to him – " I want you to kiss me/touch me like a mad man possessed, also because I want to kiss you/touch you like a mad women possessed....,"and as she sees Arnav's eyes darken at that – the Timer finally rings in on them and Arnav finally shuts it – and keeping his gaze locked with hers now – he shoves his hand in her hair tight, making Khushi shiver in anticipation again as he asks his lips hovering dangerously close to her – " how long has it been since I kissed you Khushi???touched you??in real time???"

She whispers shoving her hand in his hair next – " ages.........Ar..n.a..v...ages..."

Arnav nods clutching in on her hair harder – " ages...indeed...we were teenagers...then..."

Khushi nods, mirroring the same electricty – "yes we were then...but we aren't teenagers now....we are both adults, and we know what we want...we know..what we are getting into..."

Arnav nods, fisting her hair into a gentle grip at that – " exactly, we are both adults....and we know exactly what we want?right??"

Khushi nods shivering in crazy anticipation at what its finally going to feel like being kissed by him– " ri...gh...t...Arna...v...like...I said...we know...exactly...what we wa...,"and the letters NT of the word want – now stay put in her mouth as she feels Arnav tug on her closer and his lips close over her's in a fierce passionate kiss, as he begins to kiss her in the way that legit = the definition off a mad man possessed.

He consumes her lower lip first, then her upper one, deep, and then both together and when she responds as fiercly in intensity and gasps his name for a second,in the process - he probes his way deeper into her lips, and so does she in fierce passionate response. And then, not just electric, flaming but a devastating,destructive fierce battle for dominance over each other's lips – begins in between Arnav and Khushi...finally....after having kissed each other a gazillion times in their imaginations...they were finally pouring it all out – in real time into each other lips.All that pent up emotion.All that pent up desire....that they couldn't ever release to the other practically in their long distance then.....

She moaned his name as he pushed her back into the sofa now, continuing to kiss her madly, and deeply for the next many heated minutes, his hands running madly, all over her, leaving her burnt and flushed in the areas in its wake of fiercly heated touch. She mirrored the same – back to him. There was no holding back. Probably because?They'd always been a constant – equal to and fro. And equal force of tug of war – mirroring the same intensity to the other – always?

About ten-fifteen heated minutes later – now as Arnav feels like he'd burn to a boiling point himself at her urgent caresses - over him - he whispers into her lips, at the urgent feel of her hands all over his back pulling him closer for more intimacy – " godammit you...Khushi....run your hands over my back that..way...one more time.....and I..."

And Khushi can only tug on him closer at that as she whispers – " and...I...I...what...,"And she hears Arnav whisper huskily – " ill succumb to showing you...how much I want you...how much I am aching for you...you already got a sneak peek into that when I placed you on top...of me...right? stop...freaking caressing me this..way...you will unleash my madness...now...."

And Khushi shivers and trembles at that in sheer exhilaration – for she was finally feeling ever inch of her being come alive like it hadn't since a long time.Plus, the bit that he was as crazily affected – as she was – an added thrill.She whispers – "show me...tell me...dammit...I don't freaking mind unleashing your madness...about time...don't you think????you anyway..wasted...seven freaking long...years...dammit...for both of us.....so just...come here damm here...you...,"and with that she holds the nape of his neck - probing her way deeper back into his lips at that as their fierce battle of lips begins again – his one hand now coming to cup her upper curve – caressing it hard and deep. Godammit – how many times had she dreamed of this herself? But no amount of her imagination could do justice to what she was feeling right now..in real time.....

After caressing her curves hard and deep and kissing her madly all the while too – for the next ten minutes - Arnav holds her arms up captive over her head now as he pauses so that they can both catch up on their breath he whispers – " open your eyes...to me...now..please?"

Khushi does, heaving and pouting in the loss of his lips over hers. She was missing it – terribly already. She whispers – " I thought you were going to kiss me for hours....Arn...av...just so you know..it hasn't been hours...,"she raises her eyebrow in a challenge and sees his eyes darken as he whispers – " just you wait...dammit...that's exactly what I will do...after...I show you how much I want you...how much iv ached for you...for this...the feel of you under me...you wana see right? feel right??now feel it...feel the madness...I'v been holding on within...."

Khushi nods earnestly raking her hands roughly in his hair and Arnav whispers – " put your legs around me...around my waist...now...dammit..then...you'll know..."

Khushi does so immediately and ofcourse she didn't need any further words from Arnav to feel the evidence of his raging desire for her. She can only moans his name again as she feels his hands now go to urgently caress her backcurves over her skirt – before he finally tugs her curves up a little with a push – and begins to move their lower bodies together just as his lips take Khushi's in a passionate devastating kiss again as he whispers into lips - "now...this...is exactly...what I am going to do..to you...for hours....tonight...godammit...I love this...you..me...just...you...me...finally...us...and our madness....this way...driving each other nuts....just like we once talked about...years ago...you remember...Khus....,"and the rest of her name is lost in his mouth as Khushi begins to fight for dominance over his lips moaning his name into his lips over and over again- as she whispered – " I know....I remember...gosh...I love the feel of this too...final...ly...you...me...Arn..av...just us...and....our madness....kiss me...dammit...kiss me hard...whilst..we...move...this way...,"and with that she shoves herself into him matching his moves on reflex whilst they were both still completely clothed, setting both herself and him ablaze in the process.His caresses now deepend on her backcurves as he continued to hold her closer and torture her with passionate friction – just like he had a gazzilion times in his imagination – her moans and sharp intakes of breathe into his lips – driving him over the cliff – as he also continue to kiss her hard and mad.

He moaned.She moaned. His breathe hitched. Her breathe hitched. He caressed her all over her clothes madly, as did he. It would be another day to get rid of clothing – for now – this was freaking more addicting to the two anyway. Why????For, there was a sizzling thrill to just feel the raging heat of the other through – nonetheless....thats how freaking electrified and addictive the moment was.....

It was True. Indeed. What was True?

That there was no way – Arnav and Khushi – could escape being drowned/burned together – neither in emotion – nor in desire. Why?

Because.... He was her raging rapid who had that potent power to come her way in a fraction of a second and sweep her off her feet/above/or under.Just like she was ...his Raging Rapid too. He was also, her Fire. Just like she was his, Fire.

So about time - came this moment – up to the surface?Which moment?This very vulnerable heated moment, when they both discovered - that they were both just destined to be – each other's – Rapids Off Fire – too....

...............................................
Tadaaaaaa!

How was that guys??? Intensity Meter High – Much????? Haha! I do feel , its like one of the most Intense-est(is that even a word) – scenes I have written in this story (or just generally in a long time)– starting from the emotional scenes/ dialogues – right up till the very end.....

From the story point in my head – it just had to be this way– when these two-character forces in this story finally came upfront – of one another – vulnerable, hurt, ached, and moved – with all that baggage too from the past!

What did you think of the scenes???????? Dialogues??? Do let me know in the comments below! You know I love to hear from you all....

Next Update – On Tuesday/Wednesday evening now.

(This was super intense to put together. I obviously need to recharge writing batteries now...😉)

See you soon guys! Take Care!

Have a good weekend!

Much Love* Infinite Gratitude – Now&Always

Prachi