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How are you all doing? Hope you and your loved ones are doing great! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend.😊😊

So yes – I am here with the next update bang on schedule!(Yayieee to that) Like I mentioned last, the story has just picked up a flow of its own in my head and this author cannot help but oblige..to keep the flow..going..❤❤👩‍💻👩‍💻

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

Word Count – 7.5 k Words

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8. My Name in Her Voice..

48 More Hours Later

Mumbai, India

11:am - India

Chattrapati International Airport

The very second, ASR, Syna, Abhijeet, Neha, Armaan, Jasmine – the group of the six singers who were heading out on this musical concert tour of Australia – had stepped into the departure terminal of the airport - they'd all been surrounded by groups of fans, here and there asking for selfies, autographs – etc.

Only obvious.

There was a reason why the organisers had been aiming to get the six to group together as team for this Tour, which is why there were just utterly delighted at the development of ASR being able to join in front the very start. The six of them in the group – had become roaring musical sensations in the industry – in the span off the last 3-4 years – and especially in the last year – each of the music star's popularity had been reaching newer heights by the day. Internet obviously had been the other significant medium through which each of their musical talent had been reaching to the audiences' ears – apart from just the usual playback/movie records.

And given that each of their respective musical channels on Youtube – enjoyed its spot in the highly popular space on Youtube – it was also obvious that the chained affect off that also lead – to soaring rise in the fan following and popularity of these six rising stars from India's musical industry- worldwide too – on a continuous basis. A development, which the concert organisers were totally aiming to get the best out off. The above bit, was the main reason why the organisers had conceived the idea of this concert tour – in the first place. They were starting with Australia, first, but the organiser's vision was to keep touring different countries – around the rest of the year – say if this tour would be a success, a probability they genuinely believed in.

Raman, Rahul, Nisha, Preetika and Vasu – who were part off the admin/logistics/social media/PR teams on behalf of the concert organiser's event company – were also travelling for obvious reasons. Seeing through the smooth execution and coordination of the events in sync with their event partners in Australia – was their core responsibility - collectively.

Nisha says now grinning to Rahul as they get through their security check in, looking at the vision across – "oh god, just look that Rahul. This just continues to get amazing to watch. The six of them are literally being bombarded with groups of fans back to back – even after security check in, like yes, it's been a thing ever since we all stepped in the airport – but I thought it would fizzle down a little by now maybe."

Rahul nods at that hauling his backpack on his shoulders grinning – " yeah..I thought so too...but boy...this just continues to get crazier......plus hats off to their patience.."

Raman joins them from behind and shoves out his phone to continue recording it all for their Insta handle feed.He was incharge of the social media afterall. He says to the two while at it – " well, you two are crazy to even think it would fizzle down. This is the exact impact I was expecting, because this is legit the first time – our six rising singing stars – are heading on a concert tour together. Actually, they are pretty much at peak within their respective careers but I like to use the word rising nonetheless – for their career graph surely has a long way to go, I don't think it can plateau – plus there's something about each that just kinda connects with the audience on the general level too. I mean, ASR obviously with his life story from being an orphan to what he is become today, Neha with her life story arc off coping out depression at one phase in her life, Armaan with his stupendous come back on his feet after that accident, that left him on the wheelchair for a bit.Abhijeet with his story on being dissed by his family for wanting to pursue a career in music, and Jasleen being a cancer surviror...and with Syna fighting her way through those border line learning disabilities – eventually - I am telling you all – each of their life stories – and how they evolved through it all – surely has a lot to do with their insane popularity as rising music stars in the country. There is that flicker of inspiration and hope that each radiates, making the common man dream on the grounds – Yes, I can dream big and make it to my dreams too..."

Rahul agrees – " Yup. I guess you are right.Usually, they just go on solo tours, which is kool too as we'v seen the impact that has – but this is obviously more magnum in context now that you put it this way. Each of them surely has their own popular niche space..and to see them all together...heading out on this tour..was obviously going to have this exact impact..."

Raman nods – " exactly, so will I am just posting this all live... People all already commenting in thousands on our handle, as to why we didn't organise this here in Mumbai, or the other cities in India first – before going international...now everyone's like..when is this happening here?? Etc etc...I am freaking loving it,"and he continues to record and post the live feed of the scene in front of him.

Vasu(incharge of the PR) chips in from behind grinning as she joins in – " and its for us to know, that the very reason why the companies doing it this way rather than the opposite – is to create so much abuzz about it here already – that when we actually do it here – it will be massive roaring success.."

Preetika chips in now as she joins the group looking into the phone – "massive success it surely is going to be – guys – for guess what – update do I have from our event partners back in Australia? We are freaking all sold out on tickets already. Literally. All sold out.Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Adeliade..all freaking sold out...."

They all share a collective wow+high five to that before Raman chips in grinning – " smart of our organisers to choose the Australian cities – that have dense Indian population.."

Nisha rolls her eyes at him – " ofcourse, they'd do that Raman – isn't it obvious...but I also think the sold out bit had everything to do with us finally floating the news of ASR joining in from the very beginning too. So glad he made it. It would be too bad if he missed. I mean – to be fair we gotta admit that his popularity right now amongst the six – does have this one percent extra X factor...for sure.. just look at him ya...isn't he just like...amazing..look at how he always takes a minute to chat with a fan before obliging for a selfie..plus that smile..always so genuine and sincere...."

Preetika nods – " exactly....when it comes to ASR, the Genuinty factor is totally obvious.."and she whispers next to the four – " but guys, you know what was not so obvious to my mind before? But is now??"

The four gesture her to answer the same.

She continues – " It's the bit that I am actually quite surprised to discover the genuine respect the six of them have for each other's space and work. I mean - seeing them all together – in a group – for the first time like this , all up and close, it's totally what I caught onto. Like ,I am sure you all have observed on the cordial positive+ fun vibe in the air already..."

Nisha agree's instantly – " bingo..that..like...I was not expecting this to be honest. It is so kool to not spot any ego, hostility, crazy vanity vibes in the air at all, for the very first time. They are all super popular in their own way – which is why I was anticipating some competitive awkward vibes, but looks like – there's just none at all. Even their respective managers at the moment are in the middle on bonding and talking as if it weren't their first time – teaming up together."

Rahul observes on and adds - " yup..its kool...for sure.Its probably because they already know each other in some way because they team up in duo's usually for playbacks, etc – right? and especially in the last year – the duet pairing off either of them has been the go-to choice for any composer/music director indeed – so the dynamic of them all coming together for this – seems to have just fallen in sync I guess..which is just so good for our event..guys.."

Preetika chips in – " Exactly, the'v just been all over...and thankfully seeing them tour together – will put an end to the idea – that only ego, hostility can exist between contemporaries. I mean, its about time a healthy positive working atmosphere thrive and take over – every freaking industry...I mean what's the constant need to pull each other down, when you can technically rise higher together?? And especially when it comes to music -there's enough pie for everyone – now that the Internet is also this huge medium.."

Vasu nods – "indeed, so our vision here – is also to showcase their collective passion and talent – on stage together – highlighting it subtly through – that so what if they are competitors, they totally can enjoy working together and have tons of fun at it. That's going to be our statement in public release before the event in Sydney.We just wana keep emphasizing that being collaborative, cordial, with the aim to maintain a healthy competitive yet positive space is indeed the way forward.Musical arts can really touch right here within..right?,"she getsures to her heart – "it truly has the power to bridge a range of various barriers across, cultures, countries, demographics....right? so why not start with bridging the perceived notions, barriers within one's working atmosphere too. I am telling you all, I have an awesome feeling about this tour already..."

They all high – five to that and as they continue walking Nisha sighs again dramatically going into a fan mode looking ahead at the six of them – who were now collectively as a team – making their way towards the lounge – after posing for a few group picture with fans – around.

Nisha is a huge fan of ASR and Arman and its quite obvious to her working team that, she has a crush on the two.She jokes now – " Uff ya, guys – Armaan is already taken. I mean him and Neha are a thing as we all know for years now. But why did ASR and Syna have to be dating too? here's to my wishful thinking – being like – I thought at least I will have a shot to flirt with one of my crushes on this tour.. I mean I can surely try.. right?"

Rahul(who harboured a crush on Nisha) says shooting her a look – " hah! You wish. Keep wishing..Nish...you read the tabloids lately?right? indeed...surely something is cooking up in between the two?? I mean – especially after those two latest youtube videos – the speculations are freaking on...and like wildfire...so bad luck to you."

Nisha groans at that.

Preetika says now putting her hand around her shoulder – " but hey...guys, that's all rumours. I mean we have no confirmation...yeah they do have amazing chemistry at their work – but we don't know if that what it is backstage in their personal sphere..."

Vasu – " exactly...and we'd never know, I guess. For, do we never have any confirmation on ASR's love life anyway??Like hasn't it been the case always.He keeps getting linked up in media bytes, but he's never come out owning any off it. He always just sticks to the point of some general chatter+ music /songs/releases in context of interviews/live chats/ – mostly..,"and she winks at Nisha – " but girl, I gotta crush on him too. More on his voice - mostly. Did you just hear that last mix of Khuda Jaane and Rabba Ve...?? Had me swooning."

Nisha grins – "I know right... I am just so glad he was happy to oblige us for a picture before...."

Vasu – "that's what ya..he's always so nice and polite and not to forget grounded.A gentleman...indeed..."

Rahul groans inwardly again before he says to all as he spots Armaan and Neha lacing their hands together taking the lead to finally head to the lounge after politely taking an excuse from the fans – " okay, okay, come on guys, lets head to the lounge too – everyone...they finally heading in..they'll wonder why we were this behind.."

And as they all nod to walk in – Raman, the social media in charge – holds onto Vasu's(PR incharge) arm as his eyes widen in excitement at a though– " stop..Vasu...wait... I just had a brilliant idea...I mean we can always give it a try...right???? it will be crazy publicity for our tour, I mean yup, we are all sold out but there is no such thing as too much publicity? Right?"

Vasu can't help but listen on – momentarily intrigued – " Indeed, I am into PR, obviously I agree with you..what is it that you suggesting? Raman??"

Raman grins – " look, see anyway we did think we'll keep posting Armaan and Neha's bytes, on our social media handle, for they a the musical couple everyone loves. But how about we add a twist to it.Now that, the rumours linking ASR and Syna have been on fire off late, why not we just add just a tad bit fuel to it, by just making sure we post moments of ASR+Syna talking amidst the group etc, on our live feeds – for they are anyway going to have conversations right? let's just post – bits and glimpses of it up on our Insta handles – we are not going out there and claiming anything for technically they are all candid casual moments– but people will just assume what they have to anyway, and that technically will serve our purpose too. C'mon think about it?? what say??"

Vasu nods at that quite content with how it all sounded to her head and she shoots him a smile as they walk in – " I love the sound of that, already..,"and the two – high five one another – grinning.

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

In the Airport Lounge – Few Minutes Later

Arnav's POV

I hear Aman's voice fall into my ears now – " Arnav..c'mon join in for breakfast...Armaan, Neha, Syna, Abhijeet, Jasmine are waiting for you.."

I look up on reflex at that and spot the five of my contemporaries that I enjoyed a good working relationship with – gesture me to come on in by the breakfast buffet counter in the lounge. I'd taken a seat by a seating space the minute we had stepped in and was busy scrolling through my phone – actually. I nod at Aman first,and smile at everyone across –and I gesture them to carry on, for I'd need a couple of minutes – gesturing to them to come join me here in the huge seating space I'd kinda shot-gunned for us all – after they were done serving themselves.

They nod back at me at that.And I dip my head into my phone again as I say to Aman – " Aman, you carry on too, please? I'll come in five.."

Aman doesn't leave and he says now taking his seat next to me, in a whisper – " wait..is it Khushi? are you on chat with her again?"

Guys, I'v obviously been initiating good amount of conversation from my end on chats with Khushi, through Whtsapp. Our chat's been revolving around – general stuff mostly – related to the present – as in the present day and time in our lives. For some reason unknown to me – ever since I asked her to meet me the other day through chat – she seems to have some sort of guards up around her. I can sense it – through her chat – literally. How do I know? Because well, she's just stopped reverting back on any of the bit from our common times off the past – now. Everytime, I bring it up - she just changes the topic or just excuses herself from the chat all together citing the bit that she gotta rush...

I admit with a shrug with a shake of my head as I pause on my reading – " Nah. I wish..."

He asks – " so are you -re-reading your chats?,"and he catches the frown on my face – " wait, is this frown about the vibes off guards up from her ??"

Aman knows. Obviously.

I nod – " yeah, the frown is about that – Aman. But then again, my heart's happy that at least she is chatting with me on and off + my mind says – that I just gotta give her the time – to soak things through – I guess..."

Aman nods – "exactly, its surely a lot to take in..from her point,"and he adds with a knowing look – " thank god – I stopped you from writing the reply that you were actually about too the other day when she asked you what was it that you wanted from her, for that would have surely freaked her out – Insane.."

Well now – I totally agree with him on that. The other day, I had another answer for her – obviously. I mean when she was being all like – what is it you want from me – all off me freaking just wanted to write – I WANT YOU. ALL I FREAKING WANT IS YOU. ALL I HAVE EVER WANTED IS YOU...Khushi..

But then – because my emotions were anyway all haywire and all over the place during my chat with her – I just trusted Aman's sensibility more on a thought-out reply.

I admit now honestly with a sigh – "I know, I would have totally freaked her out with that, Aman..."

Aman rolls his eye – "Indeed. I mean – remember – she doesn't know all that you'v been through emotionally, brother. It would have just hit her way too hard..like a fresh bomblast....I know, it's hard for you, but you gotta take it slow...with her...please?"

I sigh – " I know, but it's so freaking hard Aman, for now that I am finally in touch with her again – I have like zero control over my emotions. They are driving me nuts.Not that I'd have it any other way. Godammit – god only knows – what will happen to my heart – when I actually see her.."

Aman asks next – "hmm..has she confirmed on the same? That she is ready to meet?"

I shake my head – " Nah. Not Yet. I was thinking to get talking about that when we actually reach Sydney in 14 hours from now...".We board in an hour and have a direct 13 hour Qantas flight straight to Sydney.

Aman nods – " Yeah, do that then," and he asks me again – " but, wait..what is it that you were reading then??"

I admit opening up the page on my phone – " so, giving that technically , it's the first time – I am aware Khushi is in the middle off a expedition and has been underwater for most of the day as in it's the first time we talked about it and I know that's what she's upto in real time – I'v just been wanting to read up on some stuff about the same. I had opened up this page right befor we got off the car, but then couldn't read it because of the usual transit frenzy that followed..."

He nods at that and asks intrigues – "and what stuff is this? That you reading?? Elaborate?"

I admit showing my page on the phone to him simultaneously – "hmm, so right now I am at - the open-circuit vs closed-circuit scuba diving ways – as in you know the breathing system that supports the divers with oxygen under water...I didn't get the chance to ask her which system would she be using in her diving today...because..i'd anyway bombarded her with the bits off how deep you diving, how many dives? Do you work in shifts with the other divers on team? Do you get rest in between dives...etc etc....so...yeah...I was just reading up on the bit...I couldn't ask her about...am almost done...though,"and I dip my head back into my phone to finish reading it all – to ease my nerves.

Once I am done – a couple of minutes later – I look up at Aman with the intention to get going to get breakfast and I find him looking at me with a knowing look.

I ask – "what???"

Aman – " so... you were just reading up on this all, not only because you wanted to know how it all functions but also because your mind wanted to know for itself which breathing system is just more safer for research divers as they do such frequent dives – sometimes quite a few in a single day??????? Because...a part of you ..is just freaking out..within?"

I admit sighing now – "Yup...I am freaking out within for sure. I do feel like I will be at peace once she just texts that she is back, I mean as kool as it is - it is also scary Aman. I mean I am sure she's a freaking expert at it all by now but I can't help all this jittery concern within...I will get used to it,eventually? I guess?"and I look at my watch again – " another 30 mins and she should be done for the day...I'll just text her then..myself I guess...better to just get to breakfast with everyone in the meanwhile..."

Aman nods at that as he pats my shoulder – "okay, let's go then. Don't worry – k?" and with that the two of us get on to join everyone across.

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

35 Minutes Later – Arnav POV Continues

Technically, I am present in person around everyone on the table as we finish our meal. We are all in the middle of casual chatter plus talking about our first event performance planning – but my mind seems to keep straying its way towards – Khushi.

She should be done right now for sure. I pick up my phone from the table. Better if – I just text her. I do – whilst continuing to listen to what everyone was saying around.

Me : Khushi, Hey.Are you done for the day????? how was the expedition?? Your various dives?

I tap send and see my message get delivered. Great. No signal – issues – at least.

My phone beeps within two minutes off me staring at it without blinking.

Her : Hey, Arnav.Not done yet technically. Still fifteen minutes away from docking back into the harbour. The expedition was good. All the dives were amazing actually. Got phenomenal data captures..

I sigh in relief at that within and all of a sudden, my appetite comes back to life and my hand reaches out on its mission to finish the last bites of the food on the plate as I type.

Me : That's great Khushi. I hope I am not disturbing you in the middle of winding up. If I did, sorry, I didn't mean too.

Her : No worries, we are done winding up. That's what took us a little while extra. Transporting the initial input data back into our systems,its something we always finishing doing while on the waters. The analysis and edits, compiling begins – after – in our working hours offshores.As of now, we are all just enjoying the breeze and our ride back. It's been a good day.

Me : that sounds great Khushi. So you can talk then right?

Her : would I reply if I didn't have the time – to Arnav? Anyways, what's up?

Me : Yeah, you are right about that. So, what's up is that I am at the airport – obviously. Remember – I Got my flight to Sydney.Did it slip your mind? We board in a while.

Her : Oh yeah, you got that flight to Sydney.Ummm,yes. I remember, I mean its not like it had slipped my mind completely...oh wait...look.. can I get back to you later? Need to go..

Wait.What The? Is she just off again – at the mention off me coming to Sydney. Didn't she just say - she had the time to talk?????

Okay. I am obviously not letting this go – this time around. My God knows, I have been so patient in the last couple of days with this – I gotta go – from her end – non-stop. She's literally been the one to rush off in the middle of our chats, ever since they began.

Me : But didn't you just say that you had the bit to talk? What's up with you dammit??

I tap send.

Her : huh?? What do you mean?? I just told you whats up? We are on our way back to the harbour.

Me : I don't mean that – Khushi.

Her : Then what do you mean?

Me : You got your guards up.Khushi.

Her : No,what??????? It's nothing like that.

Me : Oh yes, it is precisely that.

Her : what the hell? Why would I have my guards up?

Me : I don't know, you tell me.

Her : there's nothing to tell. I don't have my guards up.

Me : I can sense you do. I know you remember? Yeah. We were not in touch for a long time – but flash news is – that I have spent years longer than that – almost double knowing you closely. Very closely. Do the math yourself Khushi – 13 years knowing you closely >7 years off not being in touch.

Her : Whatever, its not double still. Its 13.Not 14.

Me : 13 years 6 months of knowing you closely > 7 years of not being in touch. That's the equation to be precise. 13 years 6 months, Khushi...is the bigger number..

Her : my point was and is – that its still not Double from the time of not being in touch .K? I mean 7*2 = 14. Its not 14.13 years 6 months...yes..

Me : wow..... really? is that what you want to refute on?

Her : Maybe? It's a factual error. Ofcourse, its imperative to get it right.

Me : Whatever, I know you get the point of meaning in context.K? either ways – the fact stands that – I have spent longer years in my life – knowing you up and close in and out, through and through – than the years being out of touch. K?

Her : Perhaps, I do get the point. But what I don't get is - why are you reminding this to me right now????anyway?????? know what – I gotta go...ill talk to you later.

Oh boy.

Me : apologies Khushi, but I am not going to let it go right now.

She doesn't reply.

I look up from my phone to see – Aman eyeing me knowingly and I shoot him a gesture that yes – I am talking to Khushi and he smiles back at me.

I wait for another minute for her reply to appear in my phone. Hasn't come. And its freaking riled me up.

Okay. That's it.

I am done with this – I gotta rush business. Damm. I am totally going to go the flow of what I want to do. I smile at everyone around me – as I excuse myself from the chatter and make my way to the far end corner where they do have this closed phone booth kind of thing for privacy and I get straight in and I do the one thing I once used to do all the time but – I haven't done in all these years.

I call Khushi.

We'v been chatting on text in these days. But right now – I just feel like I need to talk to her. Hear her voice. Have her hear mine. Maybe that will help make it more real in her head?

She doesn't pick up though. Cuts my call instead.

What the????????

Did she just cut my call?

Phone beeps.

Her : did you just call me?

Me : Indeed, I did. And did you just cut my call?

Her : Indeed, I did.

Me : why? Pick up the phone dammit. Like, wow, Really? khushi? did you really just freaking cut the first call – I made to you – after all these years...

A part of me instantly knows – she might say next.

Her : why are you calling me?

Boy, I was right. I knew – she'd just shove that in my face again.

Me : Because, I want to talk to you. Dammit. Why else would I call??Does it ever occur to you – that I could be aching here, literally aching within to just listen your voice?? Ever since we got back in touch through texts?

Phone beeps.

Her : what did you just say?????????????????? You'v been aching to listen to my voice ever since we got back in touch?

Me : you read it right, the first time around. I am calling you – now. Pick up – please. Just pick up...dammit..don't do this to me..please.

I call again and wait for her to pick up with my heartbeats going all haywire.

She picks up after seven long rings, and I hear her voice come through softly – " Hey..."

And my heartbeats – reach the edge off atmosphere at that at the mere sound off her voice.

Finally...

I am sure I represent a damm cocktail mix of racy emotions - within. There's just this intense silence on the phone for the next twenty seconds – because my voice box has crashed on me – in the process of surge of pent up emotions.She hasn't said a word, yet. Nor have I. And I am just totally stumped by emotion off having her there on the other side of the line.

As the next couple of minutes pass, my mind begins to fear her hanging up on me any second now - if I don't say anything. So, I ask now managing to discover the functionality of my speech again with great difficulty – " H..ey....he..y...Khushi...you th..ere...right??"

I can almost hear the sound off the breeze at her end through the phone. She's totally standing near the far end of deck. She's also still silent.

Why won't she answer?

I say now after taking a deep breath – " I know...you are there.You can hear me...right? Khushi?won't you say something????? anything at all?????????," I ask, sure that she could sense the nervous turmoil in my voice.

She doesn't say a word yet and so I just hunt my mind for a few and I say focusing on the moment I can sense – " okay..wait..for starters why don't you tell me, if that railing around the deck of your boat is high enough? Go back a little – otherwise? Please? I know you are this kickass diver and stuff – but I don't want you to stand towards the edge of the deck when your boat is freaking sailing at a high speed..."

And just as I say that to her, finally, she asks – surprise evident in her voice along with a hint off irritation – "What the??????????? How do you even know that I am towards the edge of the deck???????and before you presume anything, let me just say – I came here for better signal reception purpose – k?"

I ask again exhilarated at finally getting a response – " okay, I get it - the railing's high enough??"

She answers still pretty much irritated – " yeah -the railing's high enough.."

I smile.Why? Because – I'd totally forgotten the crazy affect that tone of hers had on me always. In the Past. Call me crazy, but an irritated Khushi = always made me adore her in the moment more. Apparently – that hasn't changed.

I answer now – " so, I knew that you are at the edge of the deck because off the whiff of wind coming through your phone.Khushi..and thank you for taking my call. Wow, its been ages...you sound different...and yet the same...I mean...your voice..its same...but different because off the deeper hymm to it..sorry if that sounds crazy, but I am sure you get what I mean..."

" I know what you mean...k?," she adds softly – and I hear her take a deep breathe as she asks in her to the point tone – " why? Just answer why? Don't beat around the bush.."

I say on reflex – "you know I don't like to beat around the bush, Khushi. I will answer the why, but only when you can elaborate – Why on what though??"

She asks in a straight up intense tone – " why did you say that??"

I ask – " why did I say what??"

She sighs – " ugh, you know what I mean. Can you not irritate me on this...please?"

I bite my smile. I am in heaven. " No, I don't know what you mean, Khushi..also, are you irritated on yourself right now? or just me??"

She says the irritation back in her voice in deeper shades now – " oh you sure do know what I mean.Also I am in no mood to answer the latter...,"and she pauses before she says under her breath – " can't believe... You are freaking loving this. I just know you are. Are you like biting back your smile, right now... ?????????"

I admit on reflex – "bingo that, Khushi. I like that you can still sense me – by just the vibe on the phone. Even after all these years. On our very first call. What does that mean?huh?," I ask with the intention to just keep teasing her.

She answers – " that just means – exactly what you said. I'v also spent longer years knowing you, than otherwise. Remember? Can't believe you are still the same on this accord. Teasing me while I am freaking irritated..."

I used to love doing that in the past. Apparently – I still do love doing that. Great – discovery – Arnav!

I answer honestly biting back my smile again – " I am still the same on many accords, Khushi... why don't you give me more of your time, so that you can discover the same...??like are you not tired off your...I gotta go...I gotta rush stuff? You do realise, I can sense that you making excuses to run off from our conversations? Why?"

She asks diverting straight out of what I said – " I don't feel the need to answer that – K? You are the one who wanted to talk right now. You are the one to call me, so only fair that you explain what I am asking first please? will you? so yup – back to my question - why would you say that??"

I ask again, determined to get under her nerve. Why? Because – it's stirring up so much emotion in her. I can sense it. Even if it's irritation, I freaking love it. – " why would I say what???? Khushi??,"I ask feigning innocence once again – knowing it will make her lose her patience.

She says now – " godammit...you know what I mean. Just Why the hell would you freaking say that you'v been aching to hear my voice ever since we got in touch on text??"

Oh My Darling. You shouldn't have asked me that. For now I am compelled to answer – honestly.

I do so – " because it's the truth, Khushi. Actually, not really, there's a slight modification to that statement?"

She asks, confusion still evident in her voice – "what do you mean??"

I admit – " I have been aching to hear your voice not just since ever we got on text, but since a long long time..."

As expected – a Stunned Silence is all I get at that from her end. Okay – I can deal with that. But I really had to get this off my chest. She asks stunned a minute later – " now what the freaking hell is that even supposed to mean???"

I sigh and admit cryptically – " perhaps that there is always more than what meets the eye?? Khushi?????"

She whispers now, shocked and confused still her tone reflecting it all – " what the??? I am so freaking confused...are you crazy???????? Stop messing around with my head. Look, you get this straight dammit, you can't just say that to me...outta the blue..okay????"

I state determined to get my hint across – "why can I freaking not? If it's the truth????????? It is the truth. Khushi.."

She groans in frustration under her breathe – " Dammit. you. Godammit. You. I'd almost forgotten you also freaking know how to get under my nanocells...very well....."

I admit grinning – " which is why I am finally back to remind you the very same, Khushi. I am quite enjoying this you know. Getting under your nerve after ages...feels good...just like old times in our banter and spats...while growing up or even after...once again.."

She says sighing now – " can you please? stop? These references to the past?dammit??

I ask – " why? Do they bother you?am I getting under your skin.."

She groans – " damm you..."

Mission Accompalished.

It is right then something strikes me and I say into the phone now – " wait...why wont you say my name? I just realised ever since we got talking, you not saying my name...usually in the past...these damm you's were always followed with my name...."

" We are not in the past. Flash News.Dammit..,"she exclaims her frustration reaching its peak.

Me on reflex in an equally intense tone – " oh really? then why does it feel like...to me...that we most probably are??

She sighs – " you are driving me crazy...stop.."

Me – " I know, I will stop, if you tell me why wont you say my name?"

And she whispers to the point finally with a sigh– " because, I don't freaking know what to address you as anymore. Dammit.ASR or just...I mean...you are ASR...now....isn't it???????????isn't it?????????????,"And she pauses.

OKAY.

MY HEART TAKES A MASSIVE BLOW AT THAT.

I answer after a ten second intense silence from my end – " do not call me ASR. Please. Ever. Not you. I am Arnav to you. Always, was. Always, will be...Just Arnav..."

She sighs at that but doesn't say my name yet – " why are you being like this dammit?"

I bite back my smile again at that. Love her why's. They give me the opportunity to get under her nerve all over again – " why am I being like what dammit??"

She says – " stop biting your smile...again and just stop getting under my nerve...before I hang up and like never take your call again...like...ever again........"

I grin to myself – " I will stop, if you just say my name...c'mon say it...you'v been saying it since we were both...5 year olds...no biggie...right??????"

She says finally in the tone off a emotion that I definitely recognise as a tone loaded with conflict, confusion and emotion at the same time – " yeah you are right. No biggie. If you don't want me to call you ASR then I have no other choice right???????????Arnav.."

And my heart freaking bursts with fresh shots and rockets of emotion. My name in her voice – always was music to my ears. And when said with truckloads of emotion in it – it often would send me to the moon in a jiffy. Am I on my way to the Moon – right now? I guess – I am.

I admit sure that she could sense the intensity in my tone that would only confuse her more. I want to confuse her more. I can sense it will push her to the edge that I want her to reach – " Finally. Finally...dammit. You have no idea, how much I'v been waiting to hear this...just the sound of my name in your voice..."

She asks again all confused – " Arnav?? please? don't...just don't...know what I gotta go.."

Oh Crap. Can't let her hand up on me now so I say in a rush all nervous – "No...no...wait...Don't go...please? Just stay?? A few minutes more??alright, ill stop.I won't get under your nerve , right now – k??"

She doesn't say anything but doesn't hang up to. Thank God. I say on reflex in a rush even though I did discuss with Aman that I'd bring this up only after reaching Sydney. " Look...all I want is for you to Meet me, please? just once. I promise, I will answer all your why's. All that you ask – I will answer – I promise. Khushi. Just meet me once dammit. Just say, you will meet me once dammit..."

The Intense silence from her end continues for the next three minutes...before she heaves in a long sigh and gives in – " alright, fine...I'll meet you – okay?."

My heart leaps up in joy – " really????? you will?????? That's great...know what...let's meet tomorrow night???for dinner then ????? oh wait – just checking – do you still finish eating by 8pm? So that I can arrange accordingly????????????????"

She asks puzzlement loaded in her voice again – " why do you even remember all this about me????"

I grin – " you mean, you do still finish eating by 8 pm??"

She shrugs it off casually – "yeah...whatever...but."

I say – " but...what? hey...no buts please?not now.."

She chips in – "what I mean is...that...I already had dinner plans with Manizeh, Amaar and Samarth for tomorrow...night, so..."

Manizeh , Amaar and Samarth. Ofcourse – I remember them. I knew them through her talks obviously. They'd been a huge part of her life ever since she reached Fiji. Last I remember, Manizeh and Amaar always had a thing for each other. And I always wondered towards the bit of the time before our break up – if Samarth had a thing for her? Did he then? I didn't quite find out for things got all silent for us and well now, I just feel like – I need to know. Does – he like her? Or wait.Crap. Did they date in the past?????????? Are they dating – now?????????????????? He is totally in Mr.Rajesh Maan's – wishlist off what I'd want for my daughter in her partner. Always was, I guess.

My Racy Heartbeats have stilled...

I end up saying after a pause covering my turmoil within – " Manizeh, Amaar and Samarth. I remember of course. I am glad they are still around...they had a thing for each other – right? Amaar and Manizeh? Last I remember? Did anything come off that?"

She says instantly the fondness evident in her voice – " yea, they still are...around me...Arnav. And a lot came out of that actually... They will get married soon. Amaar and Manizeh. Later this year...,"and she says – " uh – oh - we are nearing the harbour – k? look I really gotta go...so yeah, if you wana meet tomorrow we surely can, but I can't cancel my plans with them too ..k? Infact, you know this sounds better? Why not you come with Aman too? let us all just catch up????????"

Wait.What? She's meeting me after ages and she wants to meet me in a Group???????? Not Alone?

And just like that in a nanosecond – my mind argues – that it would be better for me too I guess, or one look at her would anyway make me a gooey mess, the only way I'd be able to get a control on not acting on my flooding emotions is...if...there were others around us...

I hear her ask again – " Arnav?? you there? is that okay ?? or else..another day then??"

I say in a rush just dying to get her to appear in front of me come what may – " yeah, okay. Let's all meet. Aman's been waiting to see you too. It will be great. I'll plan something and share the location...k?"

She says now softly – " yeah, okay...Arnav..bye for now..we are docking in, you have a safe flight...k?"

" Bye.Yeah. I will.Can't believe I am finally saying this for real though, but boy am I glad that I am.... See you soon,Khushi..,"and just like that I pause – as my mind and heart is bombarded with the memories of the past – when I last said the word – see you soon – to her on the phone. Days before that trip of her's to Mumbai. The trip that never happened...

And for a second – as I sense she's still there on the line – my gut feels like she's probably thinking the same?? I ask, hoping she'll sense what I am implying – " Khushi?????????you still there? right??are you thinking about what I am??"

She says now suddenly all flustered – " I don't know what you are thinking, okay? and oh – how am I still on the phone? I thought I'd cut it,anyways, bye now....."

I say her name on reflex to just stop her for ten more seconds – " Khu..shi...wai..t.."

And she whispers – "Please...I just gotta go......I really just gotta...go...A..r..na..v.,"and with that she finally hangs up, leaving me with truckloads of emotion to deal with – after.

Why? Because – my gut sensed something in the way she just said my name – last. It momentarily seemed like she was totally fighting back on her tears. Was she? I don't know the answer to that clearly. Yet.But what I do know - as I feel my eyes blur up on me and my one finger goes on to wipe the tear pooled up in the corner of my eye – is that I am most surely in the middle of doing the same – indeed.

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

TADAAAAAAAAA!!

How was that guys to begin the week with??? I really enjoyed writing this phone convo – way too much. There's so much history between these two characters– and so much pent up – love – that its going to keep bubbling up and through – in unexpected ways.

Next Update – On Thursday/ Friday

See you soon guys! Take Care!

Happy Ganesh Chathurthi to you and your family! May Bappa – bless you with love, light,joy, peace, health, prosperity, calm, and harmony – now and always!🙏🙏🙏🙏🎊🎊🎊

Much Love* Infinite Gratitude – Now&Always

Prachi