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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, back to back!

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.

Also yes – it's a longer update with its various cockatil of scenes and moments + Some Mature Content in there too in the Middle

Word Count – 10.3 k Words

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19. No Frills. No Fancy. Just You.

At The Studio – 5:00 PM

Aman shoots Arnav a thumbs up across, as he finishes speaking to Raman and Nisha from their logistics/admin team. The thumbs up was a sign to Arnav across, that yes, all had been arranged for Khushi and Manizeh to come in here and join him and the others around(the rest of the managers and the admin crew) watch – the rest of them practice upfront on this stage set-up area – that was a part of this studio, they'd been rehearsing at.

Everyone, was in the middle of practicing the group performance and as Arnav waited for Armaan to finish singing his lines in the moment, Aman obviously saw him gesture in a nod of thanks back, before he just eyed his watch at Aman again subtly, in a gesture to ask – Where is she? Dude? I can't obviously check given that I am in the middle off this, on stage right now. You check, please?

Aman obviously gestures that he will get around to doing just that, gesturing to his phone at that – and a minute later, just as he does get a confirmation from Khushi that they'd be up here in the next two minutes, he gestures the same to Arnav up on stage – with a flash off his two fingers – which only makes Arnav grin in glee to himself as he gets on with singing his lines now – happily. It was obvious to Aman, that Arnav just couldn't wait to get a glimpse of Khushi – obviously.

Now on the side , Raman and Nisha from the logistics/admin team were in the middle off discussing this very development with the rest.

Nisha filled the rest in,hurriedly – " guys...Aman just filled us in...that he's got permission..to have a couple of ASR's guests come watch the rest of the practice....today....like he's already spoken to the management staff at the studio, for the same...they'v been informed to send ASR's guests straight up..,"and she snaps her fingers after – " dude...I am telling you guys...my gut tells me...its surely two people from that group...he'd arranged those..special seats for, at the concert..last minute..the other day....and my gut also tells me...its surely going to be that gorgeous woman...he seeked permission for to go see him in the green room too...before..concert....dude...I am telling you all since that day right??these two surely have history...like Aman knew her so well...I was there with him right...as we walked...with the girls to the green room....I am telling you...ever since that day...my heads been on this thinking spree...what's happening? In his love life? Is it this mystery woman...for him? or Syna? Up on stage next to him??,"she asks now pointing to the stage.

Raman says connecting the dots in his head too – " Well, honestly...my heads kinda reeling too...in the same thought.."

Rahul chips in – " guys...why not we observe on this – k?? and what if...its not the same people?? Like Neha and Armaan had some relatives and friends come over at practice too yesterday...its not really a big deal..."

Raman chips in worry, given that he was the social media incharge – " either ways...look...whatever it is....I just hope..it comes out in the open after this tour ya...all this publicity with ASR and Syna link up..is seriously helping us so much...online...in creating that buzz...right? Vasu?."(She was the PR incharge)

And Vasu nods at him at that on reflex - which earns the two a glare from Preetika almost instantly as she rolls her eyes – " are you crazy Raman?Vasu? Like you guys would hope anything? For publicity or what????he's such a nice guy...I'd just hope well for him...either ways...no matter what the truth is..."

Vasu and Raman say in their defence – " well, it's the scope of our jobs...not that we have anything against ASR...otherwise...."

Rahul and Nisha chip in collectively – " yeah...we get it...but we are with Preetika on this...we just hope well for him..."

And it is right then – the group – spots Aman grinning to himself as he walks backwards out the door – leading to the entry of this stage set up here – and Nisha says – " okay...he's surely gone to get ASR's guests up...my dinner on you all tonight...if my hunch is right k??"

And they all share a nod at that out of sheer curiosity keeping their eyes glued to the door and minutes later – just as Nisha does spot similar faces enter in along-side Aman now she says to all grinning - "yayy!! Yayy! My dinners a treat tonight...look guys...it is them.......the same girls...from the other day..."

Preetika asks now curiosity getting the better of her – "hmmm....so which one of the two you said...vistied ASR's green room prior....as in you said...one of them waited out with Aman right?? also was it the same girl, you spotted crying buckets in the washroom...during concert...after ASR's performance...Nisha??"

Nisha nods points subtly towards Khushi as she's just stepping in alongside Aman and Manizeh – grinning and talking – "yup, both occasions, it was her... there she is...the one in that floral dress..."

( Imagine Khushi in this Look)

Preetika scans Khushi through now, a curious smile coming up her face on its own accord – " well, she's really pretty for sure...interesting....this is.....,"and she looks at the stage too simultaneously to spot ASR grinning a lot extra while singing now and she says to all as she spots this mystery woman gesture to ASR subtly to keep his practice going on in full swing and that she was okay with Aman by her side - " guys, just look up at ASR...his extra wide grin now, while singing says...perhaps...the room just lit up for him – right now???after she stepped in??and she literally just gestured him to just carry on...without interruption...also implying that she was okay and was enjoying listening with Aman by her side.What could be the connection? You think?? My guess matches yours Nisha now......surely some solid history..ya....its surely not something completely new..."

And as she finished that, they all get to observing what Preetika had just mentioned for, it truly was a sight so obvious.

Not just for them watching on from below along with the rest of the managers – but also for Arnav's contemporaries – up on stage as they sang together in the group performance – the extra happy bounce in his tone in this already peppy number – as his eyes stayed fixed on the one person across – obviously gave him away to the rest as they eyed each other amongst singing – Wait, is she the reason why he's been so happy off late?? Syna nods at all subtly – biting back her smile – now - as they continue practicing. ASR had given her a hint minutes before getting up on stage to practice this number – that he'd called Khushi here, with the intention to introduce her to Abhijeet, Jasleen, Neha and Armaan too.

(Everyone, in this group, did know that there was nothing on between Syna and ASR. That much intricacy they were aware off even though they were not completely aware of Syna's story. Also observing the two at work, obviously gave the equation to the rest away. The two were just good friends, it was just the media grapevine stirring it all up otherwise..)

Arnav couldn't help the extra bounce of energy/peppiness in his voice as he now began to groove a lot more in his performance keeping his eyes fixed on a grinning Khushi upfront as she tapped her feet happily, alongside Aman and Manizeh, in the moment, keeping her eyes fixed on him too. The only reason, why he hadn't halted in practice and rushed down to her himself, was because off that gesture from her instantly, that she gave him – just as she stepped in – feeling his gaze fix itself on her already! He knew, she wanted him to go on with his bit – as is. She was enjoying it immense, which was why he continued....

Continued...to groove as excited and peppy...to the next number in group performance too...and the next....and the next...

They'd all already finished practicing solos/duets – and were redoing the rehearsals off – all the group songs for the Melbourne concert – in this last hour of practice. They also were going to be practicing a peppy medley, that they were meant to end the next concert with.

And minutes later, once that peppy medley does begin – and it starts with Arnav's lines to begin with, he finds himself zoning off into that happy musical trance , groove of the performance – yet again. The experience of having Khushi upfront, listening – obviously having its added trance affect on him, too.

And Khushi, obviously was having a hard time taking her eyes off Arnav herself too. Infact, she hadn't been able to take her eyes off him, from the very second she stepped in.She could see other performers up next to him, singing their parts as beautifully, from that very second, but Nah. Her gaze was stuck on Arnav. It just didn't want to leave him. So, she'd just been staring at him clearly all the while, tapping and swaying happily to the peppy numbers along with Aman and Manizeh, and she hears Manizeh say now softly in her ear – " dude...this is so kool...Khushi....this medley...isn't it?? I mean....they are all rocking it...oh but you can't take your eyes off him...can you??"

Khushi whispers to her happily at that – " well, they all surely are rocking it...and of course, I cannot take my eyes off him..dammit...I won't, for I don't want to...,"And she nudges to Aman at that, grinning next – " Aman..am....just so glad...I heard some parts off it..in practice..and not just on youtube...after.....like this...is freaking amazing...."

The Medley's beats , rhythms, collective soulful group singing keeps falling into everyone ears...around...

Aman grins as he takes in the happy zone Arnav was in on stage – " well, I am sure...your man...is more...happy about that development though....Khushi...that you heard parts of it in practice, and not just on youtube after"

Khushi smiles at that on reflex – "Aman... you just called him? my man??did you hear yourself??"

Aman nods cheekily – " ofcourse I heard myself...I stated the truth,anyway right? like...isn't he?your man?? Hasn't he always been??"

And Khushi can only nod at that with a smile, before she returns her gaze to Arnav upfront again at that...lost happily in the moment too...

And all the while as this is happening, Rahul, Nisha, Vasu, Raman, Preetika – along with the rest of the managers, were surely, also observing it all in the air – and were obviously exchanging obvious curious glances, with each wanting to know – Who was this mystery girl – anyway?Why was she here? What could be cooking in between ASR+ Her?

Aman obviously catches on that vibe on these peoples faces too as he catches them scanning Khushi curiously as she is all lost in her own happy zone with Manizeh, watching Arnav perform, totally oblivious to the curious gazes of the rest.

Aman walks upto Raman and Vasu and the group of the admin/logistics/pr team first now and he says to Raman first politely yet assertively ,for he was in charge of social media and Aman knew he'd be the one to aim to go outta the way to get the buzz going online – " so....this...,"he gestures to the sight of Arnav up on stage and Khushi watching him happily – " stays...in between of us all..right here????k? I spot, one leak, of it anywhere, any freaking rumour just for publicity online/crazy buzz online...will be like you axing your own feet Raman...,"and Aman pauses just to have an added impact as he gives everyone the knowing look.

Aman knows, he had to go with something concrete in his statement next, even though he knew – Arnav would never fall back on a professional commitment, no matter what. But that was for him to know, it didn't mean, he couldn't use it as a context here and so he just keeps looking at everyone now as they exchange nervous glances amongst the group, before he says again – "by axing your own feet, what I mean is... that any such error on your account of a leak about what you'v been scanning so curiously, can just simply risk this whole tour from ASR's end, atleast....like... ASR...will pull out of the remainder of this whole tour...if any of that happens...and I most surely will not be the one to convince him otherwise...then...too...alright????,"And he pauses again for the affect and he spots everyone's eyes widen at that on reflex for none of them wanted that obviously.

And now, Aman knows he's got everyone's sincere attention with that,so he adds – "so please, it's a sincere request...guys... Don't any of you freaking mess this up with a leak for him – k? He's never said a word to you all/ or had me convey anything too – despite knowing very well that you'v all been posting extra close ups of live feeds of Syna and him in general chatter and practice...off late....ever since this tour began....for just the buzz/publicity online..."

Vasu gulps down at that – "wait....what???? ASR figured?already?you both figured?"

Aman nods at that immediately – " ofcourse...we figured...we aren't fools Vasu...,"And he adds next sincerly – "Look...Arnav's always been so kind and respectful right??you all agree...on that..right? none of you have had any other experience...around him right? only genuine respect and kindness, friendly demenour extended from him towards all of you...right???,"and as everyone nods at that collectively, Aman says next – " so, then...let's all respect his privacy on this at least? Like you all owe him that. He will talk about the developments of his personal life with the truth that is, when he is ready too..."

And Vasu and Raman end up asking on reflex to that – " and we hope that, that will be after this tour right????,"and they bite their words immediately for they are nudged by the rest in their sides and Aman can just shrug at that sadly as he asks – " really? the buzz and PR up online... is still what's on your mind??really? like all the concerts are sold out anyway...its not like your crazy ongoing grapevine online...is going to get more audiences in the crowd...for its housefull already...,"and he mutters under his breathe – " crazy times...indeed..."

Raman and Vasu chip in apologetically now..– " sorry Aman..we didn't mean for it to come across...that way..."

Aman shrugs – " no point covering up. I know what you meant. Anyways, doesn't matter, none of us care about the buzz anyway for all the people who need to know the truth in the equation, know it anyway....so all I care about now...is a confirmation from your end...so...do...I have all of yours word on this?? This remains..here???"

Everyone nods at that obviously and Aman nods content – " good....very good...,"and just as Aman is about to head towards the group of managers to discuss this same context – he hears Nisha ask softly curiosity evident in her voice – " but...wait...Aman...atleast...tell us...who is she though?? what's her name??who is she to ASR? What's like up between them?? So, like there was never something brewing up in between Syna and him??ever??????or what???"

And Aman just shrugs at that in silence giving them the look of – As if, I'd tell you anything. My lips are sealed for now. He adds with a gesture of zipping his mouth before he makes his way to the group of his fellow managers who were also scanning Khushi with equal curiosity as the medley performance up on stage continued and she happily swayed to it all – tapping her feet and snapping her fingers happily too!

Well, Aman would be dammed, if he let anything/any freaking slip/ around – ruin it ever again for Arnav and Khushi. He so knew, Arnav wouldn't speak about them in public, until Khushi had spoken to her parents herself...and was ready for the same too.

Aman knew, that even though, there could be a possibility that a part of his best friend's heart that did fancy – imagining the shocked, stunned, look on Rajesh Maan's face say if he were to spot a link up of Arnav and Khushi in the media today! But then his emotions,for Khushi, would always just win over.Aman knew, there was no way, Arnav would ever use a moment with Khushi in the present to get back at her Daddy, because of the past.

Which is why, it was now on him(Aman) – to make sure – he did everything he could – to help his brother protect his happy space that had just come his way – after a freaking lifetime – anyway!

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

A Short while Later

Just as everyone finishes singing the last bit up on stage now, Arnav fights his urge to just hop off and run to Khushi and pull her in his arms, excited. All he wanted to do was – twirl her around – in crazy glee. That's how freaking happy he was in the moment. But he also knew, that he couldn't act on his reflexes just yet – in front of everybody, also because he didn't know how would Khushi feel about it in the moment. He didn't want to put her in an awkward spot – obviously. And so, he just happily keeps his eyes fixed with hers, soaking in the sight of her clapping hard ,along with the rest – as they all began winding up on stage now.

Arnav gestures to Aman across, subtly, to ask Khushi if she would be more comfortable in waiting in the room/zone that had been assigned to him, and prefer him to just get everyone else there (his contemporaries)– to meet her first – rather than introducing her to them in front of the rest too - from the admin/logistics/managers/live band team.

Aman obviously understands his gesture and he whispers to ask the same in Khushi's ears now as she finally stopped clapping happily with Manizeh and Khushi instantly looks up at Arnav at that – emotions returning to engulf her in the moment – trust him, to check on her comfort first?

She just nods at Arnav too subtly from across, to also convey her answer to him, before she tells Aman, that yes, she would prefer that, in this moment indeed, and as Aman gestures her and Manizeh to now follow him, she exchanges another happy grin with Arnav up on stage – before she turns around to take her leave.

On the stage, now, that everyone was done singing, Armaan, Neha, Syna, Abhijeet, Jasleen surrounded Arnav curiously themselves, while he was grinning away to himself keeping his eyes glued at Khushi as she walked out with Aman. They all pull him aside now towards the wings collectively and Neha is the first one to ask in a whisper – " Arnav...you better..speak up now..before...my curiosity kills me...who's that girl ?? you couldn't take your eyes off ever since she stepped in???"

Abhijeet grins and winks – " dude...that extra pepped up bounce in your performance...was so freaking obvious..."

Jasleen whispers – " its like...as if you had some extra glucose shot...within...at the very sight off her..."

Armaan chips in grinning – " that's a good one...Jasleen...,"And he eyes Arnav too – " dude...get talking now will you? stop grinning like a monkey...surely Syna has clues already...that we don't..which is why she just won't stop smiling calmly..."

Syna just shrugs happily at everyone at that and Arnav finally says to all – pulling them further aside within the wings – scanning the area around for any other staff/live band team backstage – " okay...okay...wait...it's just us...now...in here...,"and once his eyes finish scanning he leans against the wall and admits to all grinning – " don't ask me to stop..grinning....for I cannot. I just cannot.See, I am trying..,"and he gestures his smile to shorten – " but see...it just widens up on its own accord...,"and he shows that reflex of action again, which makes everyone share a happy chuckle amongst themselves.

They'd never seen him this way – Ever.

Neha asks now, curious – " well..get talking...dude...or atleast you...Syna...tell us...something...who is she? And why do we just see her around now? when clearly...she makes you this happy??there's surely gotta be some history...in there...I mean...I was observing you two...while singing...you couldn't take your eyes off her...but yeah..neither could she....looked as if you'v known each other from a long time...maybe?"

Syna asks Arnav now smiling – " should I fill in? or you will??"

Arnav nods at Syna gesturing that he will talk about it and he says now to all – "okay...to begin with....so who she is...the answer to that would be...she is Khushi. The love of my life. The only woman I have ever loved and will love...."

Everyone's eyes widen at that in surprise and Jasleen asks next curious – " ever loved...?means? Neha's right.there's history...dude...spill..."

Arnav does – "so...ill give you all brief highlights... We grew up together at the orphanage.....always were the closest to one another....we were like childhood sweethearts going into our teens...and all was perfect in our own little world...until she got adopted...into...a family abroad..she moved to Fiji Islands then...but we kept going strong nonetheless...we were in long distance for four years after too...until...I just freaking just messed up...k?and then...we kinda lost touch for a long time....like a long long time...like it was my fault...not her's...but anyways, cut to the present...I found a way to finally work through my guilt of messing up with her back then...like a shortwhile ago....messaged her....and we just connected again...infact I freaking saw her in person after a decade almost....on the day we reached Sydney....and as my luck would have it...apparently that spark of our emotional connection still exists...and its so obvious that none of us could ignore it....so...we are giving each other a chance...in the present today...while we continue to deal with the baggage of the past/time lost..together....and so that was that....and hear this.... the reason why I asked her to come here today, was, also because, I want you all to meet her...obviously..."

And as everyone just exchanges knowing nods at that processing it all in now – some curious chatter follows amongst them with to and fro's with Arnav, before they all finally say to Arnav in unison three minutes later now also knowing from Syna that its Khushi whose been their buddy's inspiration/muse behind everything music – "dude...so.. what are we all waiting here for???then??? c'mon...lets go and meet her...."

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

Meanwhile in the Room

Ever since, they'd entered this space which was sort of like a green room as well, Khushi couldn't stop chatting with Aman and Manizeh, over how amazing it was to see them all practice and the two had obviously been teasing her on the bit that they obviously knew – she had her eyes on just Arnav.

It is right then, they all spot the door open now, as Arnav walks in with Abhijeet, Jasleen, Neha, Armaan, Syna right behind him.

Khushi's eyes lock with Arnav's instantly first as he asks her with a gesture of his eye subtly, if he could greet her with a hug in front of all the people in this room?

And that, obviously wins over her emotions yet again as she nods instantly.Well, she knew he was going to introduce her to all of them anyway+ she knew he kinda trusted them enough too, so she had no qualms about this.

And as Arnav begins to head to her now instantly first - Khushi on reflex to that, gets up from her spot too, and shooting everyone a nod and smile first, she begins walking towards Arnav herself as well, before the two finally come face to face midway and Arnav instantly pulls her into his arms for a big warm hard hug as he says – " hey...you....finally....,"and Khushi can only hug him back as warmly and hard as she says – " hey...you finally....,"and Arnav kisses her head on reflex as he says – " Thank you so much for coming...Khushi...,"And Khushi just pulls back at that happily as she whispers – " thank you so much for having me...here...rockstar...,"and for a second, the two just get lost in their own moment as their gaze hold the others – totally oblivious to the cheeky smiles – the rest were already sharing around.

God, they were all loving it.They'd just never seen their buddy, ASR in this zone – ever right???????? This just got way too interesting. Khushi surely had him in – head over heels – in the present - already.They could easily make out that - He was totally – awestruck, lovestruck – by Her!

Neha nudged to Armaan playfully – " Armaan...are you seeing this? We surley aren't the only love birds on the block anymore..."

Which makes Armaan chuckle on reflex as he nods in agreement as Jasleen and Abhijeet just keep watching on grinning. They were all okay – to give their buddy his few moments with his Khushi first.

And Manizeh and Aman - obviously took it on themselves to intervene now, nonetheless and Aman starts with the introductions and Manizeh says now first to all offering to shake hands one by one at that...– " hey...Syna...Neha...Armaan...Abhijeet, Jasleen...I am Manizeh...big fan...of each of you...and that was an epic performance...I must say..i mean...if this is how good it is in practice...we are sure...you will all kill it on stage in Melborune, just like it was in Sydney the other night...infact we were just discussing that...amongst ourselves....before you all came in..."

Everyone obviously thanks Manizeh for that and this bit of it happening around, finally breaks Arnav and Khushi out of their zone and Khushi now nods at Arnav that she'd meet all and take on the introductions for herself too, and Arnav just nods at that happily and hears Khushi say to all one by one, shaking hands with Syna first– " hey....syna...again...,"before she moves too – "hey...Abhijeet, jasleen, neha...armaan....so nice to finally meet you all...I am a huge fan too.....and oh wai..t...apologies...I forgot to introduce with my name...I am...."

And she didn't need to say her name herself, for Neha says smiling now – " you are Khushi...we know..."

Khushi gapes at her wide eyed – " you know? wait?how?,"And she looks at Arnav at that narrowed eye before she faces the rest again grinning – "oh - he told you??already?before coming in? obviously??"

Everyone nods collectively as Manizeh and Aman watch on happily too and Jasleen adds now grinning – " indeed...he did...and it wasn't just your name...he filled us on..."

And Khushi ends up asking on reflex next curious to know holding onto his arm in the candid moment after exchanging a subtle eyelock with the grinning him – "really?? what else did he say???,"and at that she feels Arnav just pull her happily to his side engulfing her in a happy sidehug.

Neha grins and explains now – " that you were both like the closest growing up together....at the orphanage...you'v known each other since you were 5..."

Armaan – " were childhood sweethearts...going into your teens...after..."

Abhijeet – "then you got...adopted...and moved to Fiji..."

Jasleen – " but you two..maintained...long distance...strongly...for four years..."

Neha adds with a sad smile next – " until...things hit a halt at because he messes up and then has a hard time coping with the guilt of it all..for a long time...and that led to you all having lost touch...for a long time too....until he finally gathered up the courage to seek you out..."

Jasleen chips in next smiling – " and you two have finally connected again...and are in the middle of figuring things out....together..."

Armaan grins and adds – "oh and we also know... that you are his muse behind everything music..."

Jasleen and Neha exclaim again – " boy, yes, like now we finally know...it was you he wrote Rabba ve...for....it is you he freaking thinks about...with that lovelorn/lovestruck expression..everytime...he sings..."

And at hearing all of that now – Khushi just gapes at Arnav from the side playfully as she states – " great...Arnav...you kinda filled them up on it all...already....like..what do I even...say next to strike conversation ya??"

Everyone chuckles at that.

And Arnav chuckles at that too as he says to all – " guys...no...tell her...that's like all the bit I filled you on...I mean...,"and he looks at Khushi – "I am yet to boast about how proud I am of you...for seeing your dream through to working as a research diver with NatGeo...,"and then he looks at everyone and exclaims proudly – " yup..she's freaking awesome..guys...works..as a research diver with Natgeo man...how kool is that??,"And that obviously makes Khushi punch him in his arm playfully as she says – " Arnav... stop..."

Now that obviously catches everyone's interest immense as Neha's mouth goes all wide opened in curiousity – " Whattttttttttt? That's amazing?????"

Jasleen – " that's so freaking cool...Khushi.."

Abhijeet – " dude...iv always wanted to scuba dive..never mustered enough courage for it...though..."

Armaan asks curious – " indeed...so freaking kool...so....are you like here on the job...in Sydney"

And Khushi finally says to all smiling – " yes...so....as you'v already met Manizeh....we are both here..for our work right now..both..Manizeh and me...we both work as research divers for Nat Geo..."

And with that Khushi finally pulls Manizeh into the conversation too – " come here...Manizeh...stop standing there..with Aman...grinning in silence..."

Manizeh chuckles for she was totally enjoying the scene so much – " what?? why??can I not just silently enjoy the scene?or what??Khushi??"

And they all share a happy chuckle at that – and just like that – Manizeh and Khushi now find themselves faced with a line of curious questions with regards to their job from the rest, which they obviously took turns to answer – falling into a comfortable casual chatter with the rest.

Arnav was loving it to the core – obviously. The only reason why he was just happily and silently soaking the moments in his head. It was a freaking delight to have his buddies from the industry – finally meet his Khushi and to see her fall into a comfortable vibe too immediately – also warmed his heart – immense.

Aman was obviously just watching on it all as happily as Arnav too and the two buddies exchanged happy glances too and it is right then they all hear Neha suggest – " guys...I know we gotta leave here...soon...but hey..Khushi..why not you and Manizeh come with us to the hotel...we can all catch up for an early dinner...I mean...we would love to know you two more...what say???it will be fun....I so wana know more about your kool expeditions......"

And Jasleen, Abhijeet, Armaan and, Syna insist on the same too – politely and friendly.

Khushi looks at Arnav at that, for the two did have exclusive dinner plans but now that Neha and everyone asked this so friendly and politely she couldn't really say no and of course Arnav just nods at that back to Khushi too – that he got it and so Khushi seeks confirmation with Manizeh in gesture too, before they both say politely to all – "alright...yes...this works..."

Manizeh chips in immediately next – " but because we do have a dive day tomorrow...we won't be able to stay late..."

Neha and Syna grin – " ofcourse...we understand...,"and they say to all – " c'mon guys...lets all wind up in our rooms too and get going to the hotel then???,"and Armaan says to Khushi – " another reason..why you must come to dinner is...so that we can all enjoy the sight..of this dude...in this awestruck mode...so that we can keep taking his case..after..."

Khushi chuckles at that.

Abhijeet grins – " no we are serious, we'v never seen him this...way...ever.."

That makes Khushi exchange a heartfelt smile with Arnav as he just shrugs happily.

Syna – " cmon then...guys...lets hurry up..and wind up....so that we can head out in 15-20 mins??"

Everyone nods and after nodding at Manizeh and Khushi with a – we will see you guys on the out gesture– they all take their leave together now and after that Manizeh finally eyes Aman as she says to Arnav and Khushi – " alright...guys...now that everyones left to wind up...ill just wait out with Aman too...Khushi...I am sure...you wana help Arnav wind up...look...he's got some files/music notes/scattared all over...,"she finishes with a wink at that.

Khushi shoots her a cheeky grin at that after exchanging a knowing grin with Arnav too – " yeah ofcourse....I can be here and help Arnav wind up...,"And she walks around to begin picking up some of his music notes on the desk - as she says innocently and mischievously – " Arnav...look at all this scatter...where do I stack all of this?? As in this file?or that? what goes where? Will you tell me?? so that we can wind up fast...also that other desk behind...its got all your stuff out..."

Arnav grins at that and says to Manizeh – " you are the best Manizeh...you know that right??"

Aman fakes hurt at that as the two head out – " dude? Really? I thought I was the best??"

Arnav chuckles following them to the door now so that he could latch it up after they left – " you both are...obviously..equally the best....thank you guys.....,"and with that – Aman and Manizeh just nod at him happily as they begin to make their way out – closing the room shut – with the aim to give these two some privacy in the moment.

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

Khushi knew it in her gut obviously.

Knew what? That the very second, Arnav would close the door shut – he'd walk towards her at the speed of light and scoop her in his arms, which is why she was kinda enjoying this twirl he was spinning her around in – as happily as him – in the moment – keeping her forehead on his – cupping his right cheek snug.

She can only continue to caress his cheek softly now as she hears him say grinning – " godammit...you...Khushi...you have no idea...how difficult it was for me to fight the urge to do this...before...like when you walked in...or when I finished...performing..."

Khushi nods at that happily – " I know..which is why, I don't mind you spinning my world around, in the moment anyway...,"and she enjoys the feel of him twirling around still happily as he says keeping his twinkling happy eyes locked with hers – " so glad...you freaking came and met everyone too.....dammit...," to which Khushi replies grinning – " so glad...about that too...baby...they'r all quite kool...it was so kind of Neha to like invite us to dinner...I think it will be fun....but we will leave early...for sure...though? I mean, I do wana spend some time with just you...before you get your alarm police mode on me...after....for my sleep time...because of my back to back dive schedule..."

Arnav nods at that and chuckles now placing her swiftly on the desk on the side, caging her in the center, placing his hands on either side of the desk now – " ofcourse...but..hey...did you just name me...alarm police?? Now??Khushi??"

Khushi pouts at that adorably just to rile him up – " ofcourse...I did...name you just that....for reasons...we both know...."

Arnav narrows his eyes at her, his gaze falling to her lips on its own accord – " Khushi...stop pouting on purpose right now dammit...you know, another thing I'v been aching to do ever since you stepped in.... looking the way you are, is freaking kiss you hard...and run my hands all over you....and we both know.... if I start now...I won't be able to freaking stop...for a long time...dammi..t...so I give you one second...to wipe that adorable pout of your lips...now..."

But does, Khushi wipe it off? Of course not. She obviously shoots him a challenge gaze at that with a raise of her eyebrow saying – " really????but why won't you be able to stop?? Haan???Arnav..."

And Arnav finally loses it at that as he snakes his arm around her waist swiftly to pull her closer to him and leans forward, holding the nape of her neck close and possessive and takes her lips in a stormy fierce kiss – that takes both their breathes away – as his hands begin to caress her all over madly too, and the two stay caught up in the heat of that passionate moment for the next -fiery five minutes.

The way Khushi pulled him closer, always, tugged on his hair hard, while kissing him madly this way – always drove Arnav over the edge just like it was doing now and he whispers into Khushi's lips now, as she moans his name into his lips as his hands now go on their own caressing mission over her legs – tugging her dress up a little in the process – " stop....moaning...my name this way..dammit..."

And Khushi ends up just doing that again in response, loving the feel of his urgent hands on her bare legs as she also pulls him closer continuing to aim to win the battle of dominance going on in between their lips as she whispers – " why should I stop? When I know the exact affect it has on you?? haan? I'd be crazy to...stop...,"and at that she begins to kiss him as madly again for the next couple of minutes before the two finally break apart opening their passionate gazes to one another – while catching on their respective breathes.

Arnav laces his one hand possessively into her hair now as he whispers breathing over her lips, his other hand continuing to caress its lingering path up and down her legs – " Khushi....even though...I don't think I'd ever have my fill off passionately exploring your torso...like ever...but then...given that driving us both crazy in the process of imprinting your upper half as mine over and over..for the last couple of nights...had been my primary focus....only fair that I admit...now....that I wana freaking move on towards acting on the rest of my maddening passionate desires...for you....what do you have to say that?? haan? you game for it??,"he asks huskily making sure his burning touch on her legs travelled a lot more sensuously in its path now.

Khushi obviously knew what he was hinting towards but given that she was getting this insane thrill in the moment, she asks feigning innocence staring back deep into his eyes – " but I'd only know...what I'd be game for...if you be more specific...in the moment...Arnav...like can you give..a little more context into the rest of those maddening passionate desires...for me???"

Arnav bites his side rakish grin at that – " really? this is thrilling? Khushi??as if you don't know what I mean..."

Khushi bites her lip – " indeed it is...thrilling..,"and she winks – " ofcourse, I don't know what you mean...baby.."

And because two could play the game, Arnav decides to get his mode on as well and he asks now lazily, huskily, his hand now venturing closer towards her feminine intimacy on its own accord – "hmmmmm.....so tell me...Khushi...what thrills you more?? This..moment?? Or the knowledge off the fact...that in our heads...we both know...we are each other's first...on just so many accords....always have been...and surely...will be each other's first...on this accord too....eventually...and given that we'v spent years imagining the other in our intimate imaginations...I wana take my own sweet time...in the build up...to it...yeah..I'd be driving myself mad in the process surely...but I like the bit more that...I'd be driving you crazier....too....so c'mon...tell me....what thrills you more? This moment? Or this thought...I just brought up??? Or wait...don't answer that yet....I'd give you a third option..perhaps...this could thrill you more? That later tonight...I want to freaking imprint the freaking rest of you I haven't yet...as madly too....to finally touch you....caress....you....in the most intimate of ways....,"he pauses shooting her a side rakish smile – loving the way she'd flushed up in her cheeks.

Khushi feels her breathe hitch on her at that as she feels that raw aching passionate need flood within her to just feel him caress her intimately right very now, as his hands lazed around her legs near her intimately, just torturing her in the moment in crazy anticipation - anyway.

She could also feel her cheeks burn and flush hard too and his electric gaze that was studying her face surely told her that he was enjoying this quite a bit and so she decided to get back at him too, adamant to not let him get the better of her in the moment , which is why she whispered as huskily breathing over his lips now, beginning to caress his lips with her thumb deep – "hmmm..interesting options...Arnav...but...hey...why must I chose? Any of those options? Haan?Arnav? I mean, isn't there an option d that says – all of the above??for yes – I am equally thrilled by all those three options...only fair I admit that...just like...I also wana take this exact moment to admit...that I can't freaking wait to experience that third option later tonight.....also because...,"and she pauses just to tease him in the moment.

Arnav obviously was too electrified in the moment.The woman was going to kill him one day and he heard himself ask nonetheless his other hand fisting her hair passionately– "also..because...what dammit??like that's not where you pause? Dammit?why did you pause...you freaking better answer me now...like that's exactly where...you keep talking...dammit..."

Khushi does not hold back now, at that and keeping her electric gaze locked with his she whispers – "so, also because......after years off touching myself..imagining you.....thinking of you...your words....of desire for me...during our intimate conversations in our long distance or nonetheless in my passionate imagination...after...all the time... I obviously freaking can't wait to experience..the feel of yo..u...touching...m..e...finally...just like you'd often then...say...you would...you know...during our intimate conversations back th...e..n...,"and she pauses only because a solid moan escapes her lips with his name wrapped in it – because just as she had finished saying the – the..n - she'd felt his hand close over her feminine intimacy – finally - but over her lower intimate wear. How could she not feel herself get insanely electrified in the moment – at his gentle yet – firmly snug and possesive touch – over her intimately – for the very first time? in practicality?

Arnav couldn't help it.

He couldn't not touch her intimately – after hearing that from her, obviously. And now that he had touched her and seen the impact it had on her – with her face all flushed, burnt and passionately shaken and also the feel of himself burning within too – he couldn't help but say huskily beginning to caress her intimacy lazily, slowly over her intimate wear loving the way her breathes were hitching in on her, her electric gaze so heavy that her eyelids were closing shut on reflex with only subtle moans leaving her lips – a sight so gorgeous to his eye that he knew he'd have it framed up in the inner wall of his sensuous memories – " you just freaking played with my maddening fire for you.....Khushi????? oh you so know...you did...as you said those words out to me...so...now freaking...burn in it...and the thought....that later tonight...I won't have this garment...as a barrier....for sure....,"and with that he pauses, just soaking in the sight of her passionate expressions for him.

Two minutes later, only because he felt like he had to kiss her as madly before another moan/whimper escaped her lips as he caressed her and he finally acted towards taking her lips with his madly. He also continued to caresses her intimately, slowly and lazily,in the process – unable to pull his hand away from her - loving the way he was now kind off absorbing the sound of her heaving moans/whimpers into his kiss.The heaving whimpers/ moans that were a sign that he was indeed driving her towards the edge and cliffs of maddening passion too – in the moment - with just his controlled slow....touch on her – with still her garment as a barrier?

What was to become of them both? Then, later tonight? When he actually did touch her bare???? He thought? In his head – or rather they both thought in their heads – in the moment.

But perhaps – they'd find that out later together? Just like – they were both drowning in this moment nonetheless? All lost into this heated maddening moment – for the next couple of minutes – before a buzz on his phone and Khushi's together – pulls them both out of their passionate stuper making them groan reluctantly as they pause kissing and Arnav's stills in his caress on her – and somehow the disappointment they both spot in each others eyes when they open the eyes to the other – is so freaking adorable that they both end up sharing a chuckle and a passionate sigh on reflex as Khushi whispers – " godammit....its surely Manizeh...,"And Arnav nods and whispers – " its surely...Aman....,"And Khushi says now reluctantly as it returns to hit her head – "And we haven't even started winding up...what if everyone's waiting??already??,"and Arnav groans at that reminder and Khushi whispers now caressing his cheek – " lets pull apart together...on the count of three?then? for our own sanity???in the moment??????"

Arnav nods at that reluctantly too and so does Khushi and on the count of three from Khushi – they both pull apart – and walk to opposite directions of the room and get on with drinking some water immediately first as they cut their respective phone calls and text back – Aman and Manzieh that they'd be down in five- seven minutes – and then stay statued to their respective spots and keep dunking down H20 to calm their raging with in's down.

Whilst Arnav is in the process of dunking the second plastic water bottle down – he asks Khushi across who was in the middle of doing the same, with her back to him fanning her face side by side, fixing her hair too – " you okay???Khushi??"

And he hears her say instantly, turning around at that shooting him a heartfelt smile – " ofcourse...I am okay...never been better...actually....,"and just as he is about to step closer to her - she says now mischievously gesturing her hand out to him – " nah....you stay out there...and wind up that side of your stuff? K? like...just stay away from me...for the next couple of minutes...please?or I'd combust right here.."

And Arnav bites his chuckle at that as he states raising his hands to his side taking a step back – " alright...alright....I'll just wind up my notes...around here...then?you just tuck those files in behind on that desk into my work bag there – k??"

Khushi nods and she gets on with doing just that - and her phone beeps with Manizeh's text and she says to Arnav now across the room after reading it– " so..Manizeh says...seven to ten minutes works...for Armaan and Neha are still winding up too...she and Aman are chatting with abhijeet and Jasleen and syna in the moment, in the lobby downstairs...so we kool...on time.....,"and she keeps her phone aside at that at the table and heads to her bag as a thought returns to her head now – " okay..wait...Arnav....before I wind all of that up...in your bag......just know...I am keeping this envelope in...too...in there...k? in the first zip of your work bag..."

Arnav looks up from compiling his music notes into its spot from across – "what envelope is that?Khushi??"

And Khushi says on reflex looking up – " it's cash, as in, Australian dollars.... my share of the reservation for the AirBNB....like obviously...you can't be paying for the whole thing...throughout....I looked up the rates per day...online...on my way here...and I am just chipping in with...50 percent of my share...plus this also includes...a dutch in from my end from the super market the other day...I'd forgotten my wallet then remember? So yup..just all of that... but wait...should I keep this in the first zip of your bag? Or you want me to keep it somewhere else?????"

But Arnav cannot freaking respond to that in the moment, for he's felt all of him freeze within at that from her. Not that it was Khushi's fault for wanting to dutch in/chip in/because it had always been their thing back then - but every inch of him was revolting/fuming within at the thought off – accepting – even a single cent off Rajesh Maan's money which is why he just ends up saying now curtly returning his attention to his music notes – "yeah...I want you to keep that envelope elsewhere....indeed...just keep the freaking envelope...back in your bag...Khushi...I don't want it....or rather...let me be..more clear...I won't freaking accept it...k?"

Now that+ his curt tone surprises and shocks Khushi obviously and she just keeps her hands on her waist at that and asks him upfront – " excuse me????? come again??????Arnav??what did you just say??"

And Arnav just looks at her briefly trying to mask his inner turmoil again at the sight of the envelope in her hand and he keeps fidgeting with collecting his notes before he says in that curt and precise tone again – " you heard me...right the first time around...Khushi...I won't freaking accept it...just shove the damm envelope... back in your bag please??"

But Khushi being Khushi was obviously not going to budge on her point and she folds her arms now as she looks at him puzzled – " but why won't you accept it? remember back in the day...in lucknow...we always dutched...in...with our savings and pocket money from whatever little Mini Maa+Matthew dad gave us all monthly...no matter where we went..what we did....whether it was sharing chaat/ buying food at the canteen/or buying stationery/watching a movie......we always dutched in....I am just following that...so....what do you mean...by you won't accept it ???well, you will just have to accept it??nonetheless...I am just putting it in your bag...k?,"and she gets on with it – kinda irritated by him in the moment now.

Arnav groans at that now and once he's done placing all his music notes in the files he walks with it to his work bag and takes it away from Khushi before she can put the envelope in it and he just shoves the bits in his hands in and he says looking at her puzzled but surely irritated face – " Khushi...don't...just don't...freaking press on this...right now...okay...its irking me...immense...just take the envelope back...dammit..."

And Khushi now finally takes him by the arm and makes him look at her straight as she says trying to read him – " yeah, I can see that its irking you...but I wana know...why is it..irking you?? in the moment?? This bad??this freaking isn't fair...I can't let you pay for it all...too...k? so just take it....,"and she begins to shove the envelope in his bag - at that again.

And Arnav ends up saying to that on reflex now taking his bag off her hand– " just don't..dammit. Khushi....why don't you get it? I wont take it??"

Khushi glares at him – " why won't you take it???"

And the words leave Arnav's mouth on reflex now the underlying tension evident in his tone – " because... I freaking...don't want a freaking cent off your daddy's money...okay? just keep it dammit...I have freaking more than enough of my own now...Khushi....like if anything... I am freaking glad about in this time lost in between of us and I'm sure...you'd agree on that as well – is that I spent it toiling day and night, working my being off to come to the point where I am today....financially.....you surely agree right?so I won't take this from you – for I can very well...just afford it all...for us both now.....k?just like now - I can easily also afford...travelling to come to you where ever you are in the freaking world, whenever I want, here on dammit....I know...I didn't have the financial resources then in our long distance....so no matter how much I wanted/ached...I couldn't just come to you....and I know you couldn't come too because you were just settling in – your new life there and around them and you didn't wana seek extra from your daddy for the same then in those initial years – but guess what? all that's changed now....k? for I do have the financial resources now....to take care of all of that for both of us, our experiences, my travel here on to you and your travel here on to me....and everything in our life together here on....so please...just freaking shove the envelope back in....like I said...I won't freaking...accept even a cent off your daddy's...for...I don't want you to freaking give him justifications...over your usage of funds...in relation to the time spent with me at least...like...ever...k? I will take care off it....Khushi...I can take care of it all...now...I couldn't then...but I can now...."

Khushi stood frozen, and shocked and completely stunned at that from Arnav outta the blue suddenly and as her mind processed it all – it kinda stood stuck at that – I am sure you'd agree too in the middle of the sentence prior and just like that fresh hurt fuzzled its way in her being and she was sure it was evident in her eyes now as she answers her voice beginning to tremble in frustration – " first thing out...I don't know...from where this angle of daddy's money came in now in the present– k? and the only reason I am not going to give that bit from you weightage in the moment is...because well..this..,"she gestures to the envelope – " is not daddy's money..dammit...as in.......this is out of my work savings...dammit..because flash news rockstar...I got a job too...I earn too..and I earn freaking well....okay?dammit?????so damm you..for that freaking assumption...that I'd not be independent by now ???like what the hell? Arnav???? I do take pride in the bit that I'v become independent on this account...dammit...I earn well...and even though Daddy keeps insisting....I don't take funds from him...for like my lifestyle/day to day bits anymore...so flash news is that given that – now - I earn enough to look after myself...dammit..... I don't freaking want his support on this...or even yours for that matter.....I got my back...myself...dammit...,"and she pauses because she spots Arnav sigh at that nervously as he spots hurt in her eyes and he begins to take a step toward her saying – " Khushi...I...look...I'm ....sorry...I didn't know...."

And Khushi states instantly keeping a hand in front of him again – " exactly...you didn't know..but now you do..so...you look...first dammit... for...I just gotta say this right now....too......that...no I don't agree...as in...to that bit you asked..that you are sure I agree too?? the answer to that is no – as in - yes...I am happy and proud you reached the point in your career/your dreams in the ways you did in our time apart...but only because...I know you always dreamt big on that accord for yourself ....not because...I'd ever thought/cared about...the collateral benefits..that could ever freaking come my way because of it....ever.....for...you freaking surely know...the damm balance of your bank account was never a freaking context for me ever...and if it wasn't then....it isn't now too....you get this straight...in your head..."

And Arnav is just about to pull her into a hug at that because he knew it was what would calm her in the moment – but before he could – he hears her say again in another rant – that aching hurt that was butchering him already - back to flash in her eyes as she glares at him hard– "also....wait... wait..wait..wait...with that I am sure you agree bit?did you also just kinda imply to me right now...that somewhere in this rockstar head of yours...you think...that I think higher of you in the present today...also because of who you'v become today,financially? now that you're at this pinnacle of success???really? is that what you just freaking implied...to me...dammit?????to me??????when....you surely know...that I'v always prioritized us as in just our bond always..the rest never freaking mattered...to me..ever...for me it was always you...more..as a human...always...no matter...what??right? you surely know that...right??? you'v surely known that all along???that only you mattered to me then...so guess what...that hasn't changed.....for...only you matter to me now...no matter who you'v become...so freaking get this clear in your head once and for all you... ASR.....I want...No Fancy...No frills...that come along with you being a rockstar today...dammit...all I want is freaking...You. Just You. Just My Arnav.....k?? you better freaking nail this straight in your head...right now...like all the way into your system...right very now... "she finishes trembling in hurt, irritation and frustration at him.

And Arnav obviously spots the hurt in her eyes get deeper at that and he just felt like he'd had it standing apart and so he immediately just tugs on her hand now and hugs her hard to himself at that hating himself for hurting her with this for he always knew that for her – it was just him – always – as a person – that was priority always and he admits brushing her hair in a gesture to cool her down now – " shhh...relax...Khushi...relax...I am so so sorry...okay? if my words hinted otherwise...but my intention was to never imply any of that to you dammit, for I know...that the status of my bank account..or even the fact that I never even had a bank account when I moved to Mumbai...never was a bother for you....I mean...how can you even think...I'd imply that to you...sweetheart....when I know....me as a person..us..was all you ever cared about.....you were the one...who stood by me..when I moved to Mumbai...with just a few thousands...in my pocket...I haven't forgotten that...you were the one...who stood by me....when...I had nothing...to my name...I haven't forgotten that....you were the one who was my wall through and through the days...when...I was struggling initially...look...I know....all you care about is just me....even today...just like it was then too......so just know...that....I know...you care about no fancy, no frills even today...just me....k?,"and he adds silently to himself. Even though – my being nothing – having nothing – was what your Daddy gave more weightage too..so clearly...then.But now after listening this from you just scares me more Khushi – that when you'd finally know the truth – you'd probably be so deeply hurt....and angry....on my account ...too...perhaps???????

And Khushi once again, oblivious to his inner turmoil, just punches her fist at him in frustration over his shoulder at that but does bask in the warmth of his arms - as she asks again, wanting to hear this desperately from him again – "say it again..dammit... you know this right, don't you? you freaking know this...right? don't you? you get this...right don't you?? only you matter....only you always mattered...it never mattered to me..then...that you didn't have the resources to come see me....ever...you know...I could have gone on...in our long distance...all my life...dammit....you surely know...that.....right?what we had was enough for me...dammit...more than enough.....like...you surely know this right?? that if you hadn't walked out on me then – I would have freaking stood by you through thick and thin anyway like I always did...then...and at my own end...I have also done that through my zillion silent best wishes your way.....so say even today.... it wouldn't have freaking mattered to me... even you hadn't made it big...like you have today...for...all I'd ever care about is You/all I'v always cared about is ...You...tell me...again...that you get this...dammit...."

And Arnav just hugs her harder at that as he kisses her head wanting to comfort her on the same desperately – " indeed...I do...get it...okay?? I know...I know....Khushi...baby...I am sorry...again...look all I meant by that..is that...today......all that I have...is for you..only dammit...us only...here on...why must you like want chip in with your work savings...etc...you can just keep it saved no??"

And Khushi looks up at that now at him as she says trying to make him understand– " but what if I want to keep chipping in at every step...whether it's our experiences...our travels to each other here on..or whatever....for...it's about my sense off independence too...dammit...being independent today financially...gives you a high...I guess...right??calling your financial decisions/ shots?gives you a high right???,"and as Arnav nods at that, she admits – " similarly, what if I say...it's the same for me..too dammit...why can't you understand this?? It's important for me...dammit...."

And Arnav sighs at that cupping her face as the significance of this for her sinks in his mind too – " I do understand that part of it Khushi...k?now, that you put it this way...I do understand...k?"

Khushi puts the envelope in his hand at that – " then , just take this...please??don't fuss about it...yeah I know...now...you individually earn a lot more than me...but that..is not going to stop me...from dutching...in towards our life together/experiences...k???we always dutched in then...from the little pocket money we had...and we will always dutch in now..... And now you most surely can't say no...for old times sake...plus if you won't take it...id have to resort to calling you ASR...for you surely would be the successful rockstar version of you talking to me in the moment..and not my Arnav......for my Arnav...would understand...he most surely would..."

Arnav sighs at that from her and takes the envelope finally and shoves it in his bag, as he shoots her a knowing look – " damm you...dammit...always know what to say to me...ofcourse this is your Arnav...talking.....also....just know again...my intention was not to hurt you with any other implication on that accord...k? I am saying this again..all heartedly...I am super proud of you...and your work...like...so so proud......"

Khushi bites back her smile at that as she admits – " yeah...I know that... that was all just in the flow of the moment...I guess...that...anyway...am gla.d...we got this cleared...now come on...let me help you.....,"And with that she begins to shove his work files in his bag with him as they share a heartfelt smile of truce and begin winding up together with Arnav kissing on her head – tenderly and sincerely.

It is also right then - their phone buzzes on them with texts – of Aman/Manizeh calling them down now and just then as Khushi does say to Arnav turning around to pick up her bag – " come on..lets go...Arnav...we are all done now....everyone's waiting...,"she is surprised as she feels him tug on her wrist momentarily to stop her - and once she does look back at Arnav – she feels him turn her around to himself, as he snakes his arm around her waist possessively and whispers leaning towards her lips now– "a ten second...kiss...Khushi...is what I'd like to steal off your lips...you wouldn't mind..? right? for ever since...you mentioned...that bit that you care for...no fancy...no frills...just me...a part of me just's been aching to seal my lips over yours too...I just didn't..because...we had to talk it through..first...on that note...will you please say it again though...just that part..??"

And Khushi can only nod happily, biting back her smile as she whispers leaning in closer to Arnav – " Oh I can keep saying it as many times...dammit...Arnav...for its like an eternal truth...for me...all I care for/want is you......No Frills. No Fancy.Just Yo...,"and before she could even complete the word – You – she had obviously been kissed by him – very intensely.Briefly but quite intently and intensely for the next thirty -forty seconds – before the two finally made their way out to join the Rest.....exchanging a potent heartfelt smile...

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

How was that guys??????????

Did you all enjoy reading through the various mix off scenes??????

Next Update – Friday Night.

Please Note – I will be travelling on the dates in between – 29th Sep – 8th Oct.So basically, this is why, I am also aiming to give as many updates as I can till 27th – to keep the flow going. However, given that this was a longer one – I will post the next update on Friday evening!

See you soon guys! Take Care!

Thank you tons*tons*tons

Much Love* Infinite Gratitude – Now&Always

Prachi