Helloooo everyoneeeee....

How you doing???????? Hope you all had a wonderful, Diwali with your loved ones✨✨🎆🎆🎆🎉🎉🎉🙏🙏.

My return from my mini Diwali break got postponed by a day which is why - this update is coming up today and didn't come up yesterday! I returned home - last night!

So yes, as mentioned - I am here with the next update of Invisible Strings. 👩‍👩‍💻👩‍💻💃💃💃

Absolutely, loved writing this down, so so much...!

So eager for you all to read...it too...

Will let you dive in straight away...

Word count - 7.6k words.

Please Note - We are now - 40 days - forward into the story!

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24. Long Distance Trials

40 More Days Later

Mumbai, India

Aman+ Meera's Home

11:00 PM in the Night

Arnav fights back a momentary sigh as he says into the phone - "Please don't apologize, Syna.Like I said, its not your fault...at all...just relax..okay? it will simmer down...like it always does...."

Syna was fretting at the moment, nervously, because in the last couple of weeks, Arnav and her, have been recording a lot of duets/numbers/music videos etc and all of that led - to the rumours of their link up in the world of social media online - regain its peak. And it has all kind of escalated, in the last two days, especially.

Why?

Because, yesterday, post recording, the two were seen/snapped leaving together in Arnav's car, which led everyone to speculate more etc, where in the truth was, that Arnav had only given her a lift home, for Syna's car had a flat tyre - in the moment.By the time, the recording finished, it was around 10:00pm - anyway. He obviously couldn't not help Syna in the moment.

Arnav hears Syna's worried voice come through now - "thank you for saying that Arnav and for also being your usual understanding self, but I can't help but feel guilty about this...more so..off late...thinking about Khushi , obviously. Look, until now, these rumours of our link up etc etc online, would serve as a cover up for my situation perfectly, but now I just feel like what if, I am the one causing trouble at your end...I know...Khushi understands..and she has been a complete sweetheart about it..but this shouldn't make her feel like...I'v taken her understanding...for granted...also...it just sucks that I haven't been able to reach through to her,at all. I'v been trying to get in touch since yesterday+ all day today, to apologize, but my calls don't go through...nor do my texts...so I thought, I might as well just check with you...first...if all is okay...at her end...this hasn't bothered her...right??"

Arnav sighs at that - " to be honest, Syna. I don't think it will bother her, for she knows our equation. However, I cannot give you a concrete answer on that yet, for unfortunately, I haven't been able to get through to her at all myself, in the last 50 hours, over. None of my calls have gone through.Nor have my texts delivered. She's offshore on her research vessel - right?I guess, the vessel's just hit the space - of zero connectivity at the moment.No phone signal.No internet connectivity. It happens, sometimes. Last, when she was offshore in Tasmania, she was in a zero connectivity space for a shortwhile too.But everytime - it does happen...it just freaks me out - enough....anyway..."

That shortwhile off zero connectivity zone around Khushi at that time - had lasted the duration of - Eight(8) hours.Which had obviously seemed like - the longest bloody eight hours of his Life. One can only wonder, what the last 48 hours over have been like - for Arnav...

He hadn't been able to eat, sleep, etc peacefully.The only source of distraction and solace had been his work, his music.Thank God, for his jamm packed - recording schedule. Or else, Arnav would have surely lost his marbles. The fact that none of his calls/msgs had gone through to Khushi for this long - was obviously a massive kick in his gut.Plus, he was sure,she hadn't yet read any of his mails in the last two days - as well....not that any of that was stopping him from writing to her continuously. He had sent a hundreds of voice notes, texts, various mails too etc...knowing it will all reach her...when she gets back into connectivity zone...eventually. She was scheduled to return to shore - in two days from now. But heavens knew - if he still wasn't able reach her for two more days - he'd surely lose it. Perhaps - he just head to Bali, first?

Rather, than getting straight on that plane to Fiji - in five days from now?

" Uh-Oh, that explains why I haven't been able to reach her, I guess. Anyways, you don't worry, Arnav. I am sure, everything is okay at her end...it surely is common to hit zero connectivity zones on projects like her's...,"replies Syna, reassuringly, before she asks - " Manizeh onboard with her?

Arnav keeps his worry buried in - " I am sure, everything is okay, too, Syna. Yes,Manizeh is with her. I am sure , she will also revert to your texts the minute she gets any connectivity...and is able to actually read them..."

He had been desperately, hoping the same for himself in the last 48 hours. Hadn't he?

The two talk for a couple more minutes, and finally hang up and Arnav makes his way back to join Aman and Meera, on the dining table at their home. They were all in the middle of finishing - a late dinner, given that work for the day - had only finished an hour ago.Not that - Arnav had any appetite in his system anyway.He was just forcing himself, to eat. Or else, Meera would just kill him, or worse, write a long text to Khushi about the same, which would only worry Khushi on his accord. He didn't want to worry her. He wanted Khushi to feel like - he understood the equations around her work - even though - this part off it - i.e research vessels hitting zero connectivity spaces - was beyond his understanding. He couldn't understand - how was it possible for this to happen, after all the technology/communication advancement?

He hears Aman+ Meera say immediately in unison watching him take his seat , eyeing his phone desperately - " still scowling in wonder are we?as to how is it even possible for zero connectivity areas to even exist on the surface of earth..today??"

Arnav sighs - "well, its great that you two can even read my scowls...,"and he toys with his spoon on the plate before he just shoves it to the side - "like...really...though?? how is it even possible...for such zones to exist??even today?despite..the advancements in connectivity..."

Aman sighs - " remember what did...Amaar and Samarth say? When you spoke to them this evening? In worry? that this is quite common...on offshore projetcs..."

Meera, picks up his spoon from the side and shives it back in his plate in a gesture to begin eating - " happened for a shortwhile, when she was offshore in Tasmania...remember?

Arnav sighs eyeing his phone - " yeah...but...that was just 8 hours...and this...is..freaking...52 hours already...ofcourse...I am freaking out...she's okay right? guys? Her vessel is okay - right?nothing has happened to Khushi?"

Meera sighs - " stop....Arnav...you gotta stop your mind from going to dark spaces...in worry...ofcourse, she is okay.....now come on...finish your dinner...or ill just write Khushi a long text on this..."

Arnav narrows his eyes at her, but resumes eating halfheartedly - " its just that ever since we'v gotten back together...I'v never gone for this long...without being connected to her... or hearing from her... and whats worse? When she finally finds signal..she's going to come face to face with this online rumour volcano in between of me and Syna...yet again...I mean..yes...she understands...but still...I don't like this guys...plus...I am going nuts..I just miss her...long distance doesn't matter to me...as long as atleast we can be in touch...but this...just feels like a bloody aching...trial...."

Aman nods - " well ofcourse, it isn't pleasant to read on link ups about your partner...even though one is perfectly aware of the equation...but...I am sure, she will understand..."

Meera - " I am sure too Arnav..just like I am also sure, Khushi is waiting, or rather longing to hit connectivity space...herself...am sure, she is missing you...quite a bit...herself...,"and she adds - " also, I think the only permanent solution..to this Syna issue would be...if you and Khushi just step out together in public..."

Aman agrees - " exactly...my thought..."

Arnav nods - " I know...what you mean...Meera...Aman...by the latter....but I don't know if she is ready yet for that...you know...I feel so freaking blessed to just have her back by my side as mine. That's all I care about.I am obviously not going to push her into anything she isn't ready for...at the moment?When she is ready...she will bring it up..herself...we all know that..."

Aman and Meera nod at that in understanding and hear Arnav say now gulping down a bite - " anyways....I am glad..the next four days are jamm packed with work as well. For just in case, I am not able to reach Khushi until she reaches shore - the only thing that will keep me sane, is work..."

Aman smiles at that - "well, good on you, for actually managing to pull off the hectic work schedule...I chalked out...squeezing in all work commitments...you'v been at it round the clock ever since we returned to Mumbai...a little over six weeks ago...brother...I was kinda worried...your throat would go for a toss..amidst the massive workflow.."

Meera chuckles - " well, I think his vocal chords rather enjoy the working pressure, non-stop, right?? plus, they'd surely be upto it - given the upcoming motivation off break time in Fiji...with Khushi..."

Arnav grins at that on reflex - " well, ofcourse, I was/am going to make sure I wrap it all up, well in time.I think for the first time in years, I am just going to switch off work mode and enjoy some down time...in the break with Khushi...can't bloody wait...in fact, the only the thing that is stopping me from boarding a flight to Bali at the moment is that I am scheduled to meet Khushi - at Fiji..in little over five days from now...."

Meera asks on tnat note, concern evident in her voice - " on that note, do you think, you are ready now? I mean, we know you'v been prepping yourself to come face to face with Rajesh Maan ever since that call from him...but now that days are nearing...do you think you are ready?as in, will you be ablt to go into solid pretence mode, around Khushi....without it taking a toll on you??"

Arnav sighs at that as he admits - " so yes, I am ready, now.In the last six weeks, iv prepped myself for it daily in my head already...but yes, to be honest, I do think it will still take a toll on me no matter how much...I succeed in pretending. I mean, on the top of it...I might be able to pull it off. But within - it will just take a toll nonetheless. But then I guess...it's something...I just gotta cope with...for Khushi's sake. I know..the sight of her smiling and happy around me, in those moments...will be like my saving grace...for sure..."

Aman nods at that - " we get you..actually...I was just telling Meera the same last night though...no matter how much you might succeed in pretending...it will take a toll within...nonetheless.."

Arnav sighs - " it is what it is...I guess.."

Meera - " just keep talking to us...about it..when alone...I mean...don't keep it bottled in...Arnav.We here for you...always..."

Arnav smiles at the two at that - "what would I ever do without you two?"

Aman and Meera grin - " you never have to do without...us...ever...anyway...how many times...have we told you that?a million..perhaps?"

Arnav grins - "Nah. A trillion...I guess.."

Meera grins - " now...go on...finish up the remainder food on your plate...or this is me...picking up my phone...to write..Khushi...a text...which will surely reach her..once she's got connection...,"she finishes eyeing her phone playfully.

Arnav nods at that and the three fall into casual chatter as they continue to eat, discussing Meera's arts/her work in progress/ etc. About ten minutes later, they finally finish dinner and Aman and Arnav walk up to the kitchen with Meera to help her clear up.Their staff was on leave for the day.

Once, they were all done with that and Meera goes into their room to freshen up - Aman and Arnav walk out the kitchen - with the intention to lounge around in the living area for a bit. Taking his seat on the sofa, now - Arnav quickly texts Khushi on whatsapp that he was done with dinner at his end - but much to his dismay unlike the hundred of his texts prior - these ones also don't get delivered - yet!

He hears Aman ask - " no double blue ticks yet to that message as well?"

Arnav sighs and just puts his phone aside - " nah. No double blue ticks. Not even a single one that confirms on message delivered.Damm, I will just keep my phone aside...I guess...or ill keep staring at it like a hawk...now...restlessly..."

Aman nods at that thinking of starting a conversation that will distract Arnav momentarily - "anyway...so Mini maa and Matthew Dad have no clue right?that Khushi is coming back with you here?and that she plans to surprise them with a visit to Lucknow?as well?"

Arnav grins at that on reflex - " yup...they have no idea...don't ask..whats it taken off me...to keep this bit...in me...though...even this evening when I spoke to Mini maa, I was temoted to just give it away...but I didn't..."

Aman chuckles at that - " I know what you mean...Meera and me have been having a hard time..keeping it in too..."

It is right then - Arnav's phone beeps with a text.He reached out to pick up his phone from his side at the speed of light. Obviously. What if - it was Khushi?

But - it isn't Khushi. Instead - it's a text that surprises the hell out of his mind, or rather sends his eyes popping out in its sockets.Why? Because, he's just received a text from Rajesh Maan. A text that asks him :

Rajesh Maan : Arnav, Boy, have you heard from Khushi?in the last 50 hours overs? We haven't heard anything from her or Manizeh at all. Neither have Samarth and Amaar.We are worried. Just incase...you'v heard something?Please, Let me know.Thank you.

Aman asks observing on Arnav's frame - " why are you staring at your screen in shock that way...Arnav??"

Arnav fills him in - " because, I v just received a text from Rajesh Maan, asking me if iv heard anything from Khushi in all these hours..."

Aman - " whatttttttttttttttttttt??he texted you? show me??,"and he comes to sit next to Arnav at that and reads what the man has written. He asks Arnav - " what you planning to do???"

Arnav says after a deep thought - " reply, obviously. I can sense he is worried...for her. On that note, isn't it, like what 5 am in Fiji right now?how is he up so early?anyway...ill just text him..that I haven't heard from her...as well...first.."

Arnav replies : I wish, I had a different answer to give you than the one I am going to. But, No. I haven't heard from Khushi at all..in all these hours. I am almost a wreck in worry, myself.Has this ever happened before, though?If you don't mind me asking.That they'v been out of reach in offshore - for this long?

He taps send and asks Aman - " do you think he will reply to the latter?"

Aman looks at Arnav's screen - " he better...reply..."

Arnav's phone beeps.

Rajesh Maan : it's common for this to happen on and off - during their offshore projects, but I wish I had a different answer to give you too.But.No. Never has it happened for this long ever before - though. The maximum they'v gone out of reach prior - is 24 hours. Its double of that - now. I am sure, everything is okay. That - they are okay. Don't wreck your self in worry, boy. No point. You will get used to it...eventually.

But - Crap. That just makes Arnav worry more as he types, still unable to believe the man was trying to school him into not worrying when he was the one - texting him at 5am in the morning off his time.

Arnav : Okay. But doesn't seem like you used to it. Why else would you text me at 5am of your time to check on the same, if you weren't a wreck in worry yourself and hadn't been able to sleep the night?.

His phone beeps.

Rajesh Maan : you are clever to pick up on that, boy.

Arnav : it was freaking obvious..anyway, is there no way, you can track this? There must be a way? Call in her headoffice or something..if you have the number/contact details?you surely have? Right? I was just cursing myself, that I didn't take her HO's contact details from her - prior.

Rajesh Maan : I was thinking of the same, boy. Thinking off - Calling in at her Headoffice in a couple of hours time, if we don't hear from her. Obviously,I have already left an email, as well.

Arnav : why not call now?

Rajesh Maan : because, it is out of working hours. Still early morning. No one will be there to pick up, boy.

Arnav : okay, just keep me updated? Will you please?the minute you know something, just text me.

Rajesh Maan : Okay. I will text you, the minute I know something.

Arnav : thank you.

Rajesh Maan : Go to sleep boy.It's late in India. I am sure, everything is okay.

Arnav doesn't reply to that though and hears Aman say now as he's obviously read the chat - sitting next to Arnav - " brother...cant believe..rajesh maan is trying to reassure you in the moment, in that twisted way of his..."

Arnav sighs - " exactly...I can't believe...I just had this talk with him. Can't believe I asked him to keep me updated, myself. But then, for Khushi's sake...I just had too..."

Aman just pats his shoulder at that - " I am sure, he reached out to you, for her sake only...too...brother...surely must have taken a lot for his ego...to put itself aside and reach out to you...himself...this way..."

Arnav sighs at that - "surely...,"and he can't help but go to his chat window with Khushi at that - as he goes through the hundreds of his undelivered texts thinking to himself, the worry and the longing both returning to grip his being - Where are you, Khushi?Just - Where are you, baby ?

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

Ten More Hours - Later

On the Waters@ Bali

On board the Research Vessel - 9:30 am in the morning

Khushi looked at her phone, for what seemed like the millionth time restlessly. Manizeh did the same. As did - every other team member on board - as they all finished up on their breakfast - in the pantry/dining side ( two floors under deck)on their research vessel. They'd all been doing the same( looking at their phones restlessly- every now and then) for the last two days over.

It was usual, to head into no connectivity zones - when offshore.They were all used to it. But the bit they were all not used too - was the part of being stuck in the no-connectivity zone - for this long. Two days prior, their research work had got them into the waters, which was known to have least signal reception. Everyone, had notified their loved ones back at home, about the same that they'd probably have less signal reception/connectivity issues for the next eight hours or so , for that was the scheduled time, they were supposed to be anchored in around these waters - whilst conducting their research work.However, no one on board had forseen that - this zone would end up being one of those - no connectivity zones - where in there was no phone signal/internet connectivity. Infact, no one on board had even forseen - the next turn of events. But, perhaps - such was the nature of their work under the deep blue's? Sometimes, one just cannot predict - what happened next.

Now, it so happened, that just as the team on board had finished wrapping up on work for the day (two days back)and was about to restart their engines to set sail out of this no - connectivity zone - the technicians/nautical engineers ( on board)- advised the project head against it.Because, latest weather forecast predicted - that if they set out of this zone now - the vessel might get caught up in a massive storm that had just begun on the route - they had taken here. They did have another route to explore - as the standby route - but even that was suddenly overcast by tough weather stormy conditions - leaving the project head with no other choice but to take the call to stay anchored/docked in this no connectivity zone - for the safety off everyone on board. Ofcourse, advanced research vessels are equipped with all safety/tech stuff - to sail through massive storms - easily, but given that the scale of these storms on either side was pretty huge - the project head decided that it be better to just not risk it at all.

Why sail straight into stormy waters? When you can stay docked in/anchored in - around a silent calm still water zone and still accomplish the rest of the work onboard. They were anyway going to stay offshore to proceed with the final compilation/edits/research reports etc of the project- the project chief thought - so why not stay in this safe zone to accomplish the same. So it was decided, even though this zone was the one that cut them off from any sort of communication. It was the safest to be in - for now - until the storms around - settled. Given that all the tech/machinery on board was working perfectly, the nautical engineers, obviously kept eye on the forecast - or the possibility of the storm heading closer to them. In that case, they'd have no option but to sail.But thankfully, it hadn't come to that yet. But given that the storms were in no mood to simmer down - they'd all just been stuck in this zone - longer than expected. Everyone had no other option but to drown themselves in work - final compilation of the reports etc related to their job roles etc.

Khushi and Manizeh had been doing the same - as well. To keep themselves sane and focused through this.

Khushi sips on her coffee now as she looks at her phone for the infinite time restlessly just like most of the other team members around - " godammit...Manizeh...still no signal reception...the freaking internet on board also hasn't found its connectivity yet.....this is driving me nuts now...Arnav must be going beserk in worry...as will be everyone else...like..for the first time ever...I feel like...I got zero appetite ya...just don't feel like eating...haven't spoken to Arnav in all these hours...haven't received any text/mail/voice note from him...and I feel like...I bloody just can't take this anymore....why are we still stuck here...dammit? It's been over.... two full days....oh I hate this...I swear I do...just like I know...you hate it too..."

The two were seated opposite one another - obviously. Manizeh says now gesturing Khushi to continue eating - " ofcourse...I hate it Khushi...but why punish your stomach? Just Eat..c'mon...please? or you'd rather have me complain about this to Arnav eventually? He'll school you well...then...Khushi...you cannot not eat properly..amidst your dive schedules...please..."

Khushi narrows her eyes at her bestie - " you just said that purposely to get me to eat...I know...,"and she picks up her spoon to resume eating - reluctantly.

Manizeh winks - " All I care about is the bit that...it worked..."

Khushi chuckles at that on reflex - "well, it did work...I am just so worried...though...thinking off him+everyone back at home...our parents surely haven't slept the nights...given that its been the longest we'v ever been out of reach..."

Manizeh nods at that continuing to eat - " yes...I am sure of that...Khushi. Like - I can totally imagine Amaar fretting over this to Mom and Dad as well.But look ...I am also sure...Rajesh uncle/mom/dad/ already wrote in to the headoffice/or either called them by to check in on us - and as chief said last night - given that we got stuck here longer than expected - he had informed the head office through the satellite phone that he's taken the decision to be docked in here - for safety purposes. Like of course, it isn't wise to sail into a full-fledged raging storm - knowingly- even though your vessel is prepped for it.Its just better to stay in safer spot.So everyone back at home, surely knows of this development by now, my gut tells me...and I am sure..they'd agree...that its better that we are safe even though cut off from communication, rather than having to deal with the thoughts of us/or vessel sailing through storms..."

Khushi nods at that on reflex - " well yes, it is a wiser decision, most surely, I cannot deny that, even though I don't like what came off it....," and she asks still eyeing her phone hoping for it to miraculously beep with Arnav's text - " Amaar would have told Arnav - right...by now???like there is no chance, Arnav wouldn't know about this..."

Manizeh rolls her eyes - " of course Amaar would have told Arnav. He must have called him the very second he knew. I bet those two are totally bonding over how much they dislike - this very aspect of our jobs...right now...."

That makes the two share a chuckle on reflex and Khushi fights back another sigh - before she sipped on her coffee.Godammit, she missed Arnav.She missed him so freaking much.And especially after last night....when she'd realised what she had..in her vulnerable private moments by herself on deck - gazing up at the stars - after everyone was asleep...

Being cut off from him - for this long - for the every first time - after theyd gotten back together - had been gut wrenching. And given the intensity of what she had been feeling, only wrecked her more - made her wonder - how did she ever go on to manage to being cut off from him - for years prior?Such a fool she'd been. He'd been. She can't help but think the same..

Manizeh observes on Khushi's deep in thought frame and she asks now leaning in closer to her - " what you thinking??"

Khushi shrugs but admits honestly - "as to how was it ever possible for me to go on for all those years being cut away...from Arnav...when...just being out of touch from him in all these hours...has freaking just killed me...Manizeh...I told you...I can't freaking take it..."

Manizeh smiles - " well, that was probably because at that time, you just didn't know how he feels...you'd just assumed otherwise..."

Khushi scoffs at that - " what a fool...I'd been.What a fool, he'd been. Let's just not go there...right now...I guess..."

Manizeh nods at that - " fair enough...no point sailing into the past..when you can sail ahead.."

Khushi chuckles - " and you say that now...when we are freaking anchored in/docked in - in this no connectivity zone still...isn't it ironical...you mention...sailing..now..."

Manizeh chuckles - " well, I get what you mean. Anyways...why were you out there on the deck...for so long last night?? you went off - after I slept right? don't think..that you sneaking back into the cabin at 2am...missed my eye...even in my sleep...I can sense when you leave/enter in...Khushi..."

Khushi smiles at that - " should have known, you'd sense it anyway...so I just wasn't able to sleep...k? I mean...all these imaginary thoughts off Arnav going crazy in worry..etc kept haunting me...I thought the fresh air would help..."

Manizeh raises her eyebrow at that all curious - " and did it?help? I mean..did you go back to sleep feeling sorted...or a lot more worried?"

Khushi admits now sipping her coffee - " you could say...a little bit of both..."

Manizeh - " huh??"

Khushi sighs as she explains leaning in closer to Manizeh - " well, sorted because, all of this that happened, the intensity of what iv been feeling at being cut off from him - just led me to finally accept the depth of what I feel for him in the present today, in all clarity and awareness and worried because...I don't know...how am I going to keep this to myself...until I see him in Fiji...in days from now....like as much as I am hating this no connectivity bit...a part of my heart is glad...about it too...I guess...for its saving...me from writing/voicing out to him over text/phone...what I most surely want to confess to him...face to face..."

Manizeh grins at that excited as she shoves half a cookie at Khushi playfully - " oh yay...finally....please...tell me...you finally acknowledged...what I could already see..and sense...too....you'v finally accepted that you are in love with him, in the present...haven't you???"

Khushi smiles at that now - "well, do you really want me to answer that??isn't it obvious?"

Manizeh nods - "yes....because...I want to know..how you came about it.."

Khushi folds her hands over the table at that and says recalling it in her head - " so...there I was just sitting by myself on the deck...looking up at the stars...recalling every bit of what I'v been feeling..ever since we reconnected..Manizeh..and as that brought in a flux of emotion, in came in a fresh tide of ache at just being unable to reach him at all...in these days...and then for a second...that got me thinking...like what if?like just what if...we'd sailed into the storm..instead? like what if the engineers on board hadn't caught on the weather development in time...like what if our vessel was caught up in a crazy storm for real?then...I heard my mind asking me...if that were the case....what was the first thing - I'd do - after docking in to safety?or what was that one thing - I'd be aching to do whilst being caught up in a situation like that? and the answer I received from my gut was simple. That I'd just like to connect to Arnav as soon as I could and tell him, freaking just tell him - how I am in love with him - in the present day - today.That I truly have fallen deeply in love with him, in the present today..as well....and as to how I'v been a fool to not process this completely more so in the last ten days even though I could feel it deep - within. Its crazy you know..Manizeh...but sometimes..the most significant realizations just hit you in the least expected of places/times...I realised last night..that I am in love with the present him - since the last ten days already.."

Manizeh grins - "well...you'd say..last ten days...but I think...you were in love with the present him..even before that...on that last day in Australia..the way you two looked at one another...and bid goodbye...just was enough for me to sense...that yup...you two love birds are just in love with each other..madly...again..."

Khushi narrows her eyes at Manizeh at that - " really? you sensed that then?you tell me now??"

Manizeh - "well, I wanted you to come around it, Khushi. You think...it wasn't love that made you open up to your parents the way you did? You think, it wasn't love, when you told your dad...you'd have chosen him..anyday?when he asked?? Look....Khushi....I think, a part of your mind was taking time to process it, for you two are still dealing with part baggage of the angst related to your past..."

Khushi sighs - " yeah...I guess...you are right about that...now that I look back at it in retrospect..we are doing better...yes...for sure...I mean...the present...is working its wonders...continuously...but last night just got me thinking...nonetheless...why ignore accepting what I am feeling in the present today on the basis of the time..that is anyway never coming back. I just realised...I was being foolish again. I can accept what I feel, own it and at the same time, we can both keep working on our relationship the way we are...right??"

Manizeh nods - "Well, ofcourse, one can do both simultaneously...I mean..its not like you haven't seen Amaar and me hit our rough patches....but the fact that we love each other the way we do...just helps us get through...hand in hand nonetheless...we just know...we gotta get through that..for one another...because of what we feel...I mean...we both know..it...obviously...but saying it loud...just cements it...so I guess...the time for you and Arnav to confess to one another...is here too...I am sure...he is in love with the present you...already...as well....you know that don't you?"

Khushi nods at that and smiles - " I do know that. Yes...Manizeh. I can see it in his eyes.Have been seeing it - quite evidently for quite a while now, just like I also know, the only reason he hasn't said it out loud himself, is because, he doesn't want me to feel like - compelled to say it back to him only because he said it. He doesn't want me to say it because, I feel like I have to. But because, I'd want to...."

Manizeh grins - " and you surely are going to confess to him...when you see him in Fiji...right??"

Khushi winks - " indeed...only if I haven't blurted it out to him on text/phone before that...I mean...just talking to him when we hit connectivity seems like a tempting moment to confess indeed...,"she pauses for a deep thought - " but...I'd rather wait...I am sure...you understand why...,"she finishes with a playful grin.

Ofcourse, she wanted to tell him this face to face - no matter how hard it was to keep it to herself. For two main reasons. First - There's no way, she'd want to miss the look on his face as she told him what she felt.And second - she most surely wanted to kiss him deep at the point.Or rather she knew - it would be the moment - they'd finally make love to one another - madly?

She's right on the thought - when everyone in the room looks up as does she - given the Project chief/head+ some senior team members just entered in the dining space and they begin addressing everyone with the latest update on their situation.

The chief says in a calm and composed tone - " okay...good news + bad news...everyone...good news is that we are going to set sail from here in another hour...surely....but bad news is that...do not expect any signal/connectivity for another day...most surely...or even more...until we are hours closer to the shore....."

Everyone murmurs and asks - the much obvious question - "why?" collectively.

To which the chief replies patiently - " because...you all were busy in here...under deck..I am sure...the changing weather conditions on the out missed your eye..."

Everyone turns around to peek through side oval windows to get a glimpse of what the Chief was hinting at. Crap. Indeed, the sunny morning had vanished. They hear the chief continue - " as you can see now...indeed...the weather's turning gloomier at this end...our engineers forecast...the passing storm may finally make its way here...which means...we have no option...but to sail away...but no need to panic. No worries. Situations in control. The waters arent rough on either of our routes back anymore for the storm has settled in around there - quite a bit...but given that it's been rough weather on either of our routes...for these couple of days...connectivity will still be a issue...we are connected to the headoffice..they'v advised us to set sail as well...it will be tad bit rougher than usual...but nothing our vessel can't handle...I mean...its not as big a risk anymore...as it was two days...ago...alright team? So I suggest...we all just keep working on our bits...like we have in the last couple of days...for we are looking to hit shore...directly from here...now...given the situation...we'v cancelled the last day of dives on that last scheduled spot...headoffice...wants us to finish compiling all the data...we have collected till now...as is...no more...additions...for if we pause to do that...it would lead to addition off another couple of days to our offshore leg. I think, we all need our break...as it was planned...prior...glad the head office is on the same page...on that accord..."

Someone asks worriedly - " our families have been informed?off this development?"

"so technically...we will still be sailing back and through rougher waters than usual??"

The chief answers patiently - " a lot of your loved ones have written in/called as iv been informed by the headoffice...they have been updated about the situation.Obviously. And yes, it will be a rougher sail back...but nothing risky...like I said...so no need to worry...at all..."

Some more questions - keep coming at chief from team members around as he and the seniors begin to serve themselves breakfast and they keep answering it patiently. Their calm eventually begins to rubs on everyone around -

Khushi and Manizeh sigh at that now collectively - " well, it is what it is, no point going into panic mode...I guess....if there was anything to worry...the chief wouldn't be this calm...,"and Khushi curses - " but damm...no connectivity...also I hope...they don't send out an update from headoffice...that we will be sailing back through rougher waters...for that will just freak everyone out...on another level..."

Manizeh eyes her phone worriedly - " Amaar might just sit on a revolt - the next time I tell him we are to go offshore..."

Khushi sighs - " I expect...Arnav to do just that...as well...,"and she sighs - "Well , atleast, some good came out off this trial situation...Manizeh....that I realised what I feel...for just the thought..we an hour away from being hit by a storm...or that we have no option but to sail back through rougher waters now..makes me...just wana tell Arnav how I feel...right very now...so bad...so freaking bad....,"and at that she's just pulled into a sidehug by Manizeh, whose gone upto sit next to her already feeling a little nervous herself - " I know...I know...what you mean....Khushi..."

Khushi can only hug her bestie back in the moment - "thank god...for you...Manizeh...thank god...for you...I wouldn't know how to keep my calm on in this situation if it weren't for you...by my side..."

And Manizeh can only hug back Khushi as hard as she says - " and thank god for you...I feel the very same...atleast...we have each other...through this...it will be okay...everything will be okay...lets just get back to work...then? it will distract us?"

Khushi nods at that -on reflex. Only her work could keep her sane - in the moment - indeed.

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

Back in Mumbai

730 AM - (Bali is ahead by Two Hours Thirty Minutes)

Arnav's just stepped out of shower. The morning seemed a lot better to cope with. He'd never thought, he'd use the words - Thank God for Rajesh Maan ever in his head.But in the moment, he couldn't help but thank him in his head - for letting him in on the update at Khushi's end at around 2am IST last night. He hadn't been able to sleep - at all - worried which is why he was about to check with him - if he'd heard something - but it was right then - he'd seen the man's text arrive on his whtsapp. Amaar's text with the same information had arrived- five minutes later.Only then , he'd been able to sigh in relief and get some sleep after.

Even though - she was cut off - from communication/ connecticity - all that mattered to him was that Khushi was safe. Thank God, their project chief took the decision to stay docked in a safer place rather than sailing through a full fledged strom. Heavens knew though, he was going to go into a full on panic mode - the next time - Khushi told him she was going to go offshore...during her next projects. She surely could expect that meltdown from him - already!

He's in the middle of wearing his clothes, when he hears loud knocks on his door and he calls out knowing it could only be Aman, putting his clothes on halfway through the walk from his dresser to the room - " wait up...Aman...I am just putting on my clothes...we only got to leave in 30 mins...right??"

He hears Aman's worried voice come through - " open up...now...where is your phone?"

Arnav answers - " on charge...,"and he just goes to open the door in a rush nonetheless with just his jeans on - and shoving his tee on himself halfway as he asks - " what happened? is meera okay????"

He hears Aman say cautiously - "yes..yes...Meera is okay...but...Amaar called...I am sure...you have a text from Rajesh Maan too..."

Now that sends Arnav's alarms buzzing as he asks Aman sure he was as pale as a sheet - "Khushi...she is okay? tell me...dammit...she is okay..right??"

Aman sighs - "well, I am sure, she is okay, Arnav..but the update...Manizeh's parents received... from their headoffice..the bit..Amaar just told me... is a tricky one...they have no option but to set sail now..for they will be hit by the passing storm...otherwise for its nearing them..finally...and well...the routes back...is expected to be a lot more rougher than usual...not stormy...technically...but rougher for sure...they saying..its not too much risk now...but yes connectivity will still be a issue, until they closer to the shore..."

Arnav gapes at him in disbelief going into panic mode - " whattttttttttttttt?the freaking hell? Did you just say they be sailing back through rougher waters nonetheless? No aman...you just didn't say what you did right?"

Aman gestures him to relax handing him the bottle of water in his hand - " relax...don't panic...please? have this water...I kept it handy...knowing you would panic..though..."

Arnav doesn't take the water - " godammit...ofcourse...I will panic...Aman...as it is I haven't bene able to reach her for days...but I could still sleep last night...knowing she is safe...but now...you tell me...this....,"and he just decides in his head then and there walking to and fro in his room in sheer panic - " that's it...I can't freaking sit here in wait...dammit...I am going to Bali...cancel my commitments for the remaining of these four days...Aman..please...tell them a family emergency came up or something...I never cancel...I am sure..they'd understand...you do get me don't you? I just cant be here..right now...I need to be in Bali...the very second...Khushi hits...shore...dammit...I just need to see her...as soon...as possible...."

Aman smiles at that - "well, I knew you'd say that...I already began making the calls...but the earliest flight out to Bali...is later tonight...but yes..its visa on arrival for Indian passport holders...so that will be convenient...and yes...Amaar is heading to Bali himself too...reckon he is in the same situation as you are...you will see him there..."

Arnav nods at that and now rushes to pick up his phone and sees a text from Rajesh Maan awaiting him on his phone with the information that Aman just relayed.

He quickly types.

Him : thank you for keeping me in loop. I can't just sit here in wait though, anymore after knowing this. I am headed to Bali. I need to see Khushi the minute she reaches shore.We will come to Fiji..together...post that with Amaar and Manizeh.

His phone beeps.

Rajesh Maan : you know, Amaar is going as well?

Arnav :ofcourse, I know.

Rajesh Maan : okay. good that you are going, boy. I was booking my tickets - as well.But then, I guess, better I just wait here for you two...in Fiji. I am sure you have cancelled in a lot of your work last minute - to head to Khushi - now - itself. Thank you, boy. It will make her happy.

Arnav : you don't need to thank me for doing whatever/everything I can..to just be there for the woman I love...k?

Rajesh Maan : you really love her don't you?

Arnav : Always did.Always will.

His phone beeps.

Rajesh Maan : Its good then, that you love her the way you do, boy.That you always loved her the way you do.

And it is when, he reads this message, from Rajesh Maan - it hits Arnav that he hasn't even confessed his love to Khushi in the present today and he just looks at Aman restlessly at that as he admits sure he was as pale as a sheet now shoving his phone back in his pocket - " I should have just told her...how much I love her in the present...the very second...I realised...it dammit...Aman.....I can't believe I freaking didn't......"

Aman sighs - "oh don't be harsh on yourself...you had a valid reason..."

Arnav sighs as he walks upto take out his suitcase and begins packing at the speed of light - " I know...Aman...godammit...please tell me...you can find me a flight that will take me sooner to Bali...though...I'd rather reach Bali early and wait for her to hit shore...there...itself...rather than be here...right now....so freakinbg far and away..."

Aman - " let me see...if we can get you a quicker connection there through a stop over or something......you continue packing...k? ill sort this out..."

And as Arnav continues to pack at the speed of light - he can't help but pray to all of the water gods above to make Khushi's sail back to the shore as smooth and safe as can be. Once again, all that mattered was that she was safe, despite no connectivity. He was anyway headed to her - now - wasn't he?

He'd see her the minute - she'd reach shore. And what would he do then? The answer was simple - he'd just freaking hug her hard to himself first and never let go.....

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

Tadaaaaa!!

How was that you all? What do you think of The update and the small chats in between Arnav and Rajesh maan on the account of worry on Khushi's accord? Well, well, long distance can have its share of trials sometimes...but sometimes...its these trials...that ultimateky culminate on/towards various moments/potent realisations - right? 😁😁😉😉😉😉😉

Also no shoes at me from stopping there.K? Hint - Ofcourse - Khushi is going to be all safe and they will reach the shore as scheduled. She's just in for a massive surprise - though - for she has no clue she'd find her love - waiting for her there - already!😁😁

Next Update on this - Coming Tuesday

And yes,I will be doing my best - to post the next update on HW4.0 by tomorrow night/or max by Monday night. I am going back to the usual schedule of posting on both stories - simultaneously.

Thanks guys for all the love* support always.

❤🙏Much Love* Infinite Gratitude❤🙏

Now and always

Prachi