Hey Everyone! Hope you all are enjoying the festive season 🎑 Talking about seasons, CSK just won the season 14 of IPL, making it their fourth time hoping the winner's trophy. Also, kudos to KKR (my hometown  team 🥰) and their fighting spirit through out the season.

Now, what are your dibs for T20 WC finals?

Coming to my stories, we now have Rahul granting a pass to Eshaanvi's friend Kavya and Eshaanvi promising Kavya to stay by her side in her bad times. This chapter is basically a 'party chapter'🥳🎊 where we'll see where does Eshaanvi herself stand after arranging for others to attend the party. Will she be stay back home or....

(Get ready for the biggest chapter till now with the biggest twist)

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THE DAY MOST AWAITED

'... and I'd just help her to get in, that's it. Once we are in, it's his-his, whose-whose.' Rahul reminded me again for the 5th time in last one hour.

'Okay, I'll tell her. Don't worry, she just needs the pass from you to meet that guy Avinash Singh. She really needs to, you know.' I assured.

Rahul checked his wallet again, for something and then suddenly, looked at me with a frown.

'Avinash Singh. Yes, you mentioned that name before. He indeed is a share holder of the team. But, what does your silly friend has to do with him?'

I gave him an angry look. 'Anna, Kavya isn't silly and you'll know everything once she confirms me the same.' I said not wanting to get to the details.

Since the guy is rich, who knows what accusation Rahul would vest on Kavya once  he knows him as her lover.

He scoffed, taking his phone from the couch. 'Why would I care, anyway? Just because Mr. Avinash seemed like a man of principles in our first meeting, I was kind of surprised to know that a man like him would have anything to do with that friend of yours.'

'Whatever...'I rolled my eyes. 'I'm gonna tell Kavya to see you in front of the stadium entrance.'

'Hm..but, don't blame me if I forget her face and she is left behind.' Rahul said.

What the...

'Anna...Ēke...'

'....come on babe, it's just a little one. Use toothpaste. I heard that works.' the annoying voice of Pandya hit my ears as he, too, made his way towards Rahul's room.

But, toothpaste! As ointment! Is anybody hurt?

'Okay, I'll wait. Seeya. Bye, babe.' he disconnected, presumably talking to kne of his 'babes'.

'So..Harry..Julie and Nattie, it is..!' Rahul said  scoffing at his bestfriend.

'Yeah, that's what I decided after a lot of thought. You know, Sumaira wanted to go as well. But...' Hardik shrugged.

Eww! Now, he has to pick two from his list of hundred girlfriends.

'And did you actually, pick cheats to decide the lucky ones?' I asked with disgust in my voice.

Hardik chuckled shamelessly. 'Nah..that's too old. I uploaded a pic on IG and decided the that I'd take the first two of them who reacts.'

I scoffed. 'Wow! Claps..' I said sarcastically.

Hardik did a fake bow, making me roll my eyes.

'Harry, are we late already?' Rahul asked fixing his wrist watch.

'Not actually. They said they'd would be reaching around 4 but I feel it'd be 5.' Hardik said, referring to the stylists and designers devoted to them at some hotel near the venue.

Rahul frowned. 'Goodness gracious! What if they aren't late..Come on Harry...let's leave fast..' Rahul said. '

I can relate. It was 4:45 already and even if they do come at 5, they are late already.

Hardik sighed. 'Relax! They are stylists for God sake and there are other players as well.'

'But, I hate getting late.' Rahul cut him off. 'Now, come on! Esh..tell your friend to be near the entrance at 6:30-6:45 pm.' Rahul patted me before hurrying to the door.

Hardik looked at me holding a detested face. 'Your brother is such a...'

'Shut up and leave, Pandya. You two are already late.' I said leaving the room.

'What the...! Both are crazy..' I heard Hardik mutter as he followed Rahul.

^^^^^^

In Between Telephonic Conversation

Kavya: But, did he really say he won't recognize me? Come on Esh..I'm so excited to see Avi. Your brother can't just do that!

Eshaanvi: Relax Kavya! He just said it out of rush. I'll give you his number. You just call him. And yeah, you better know Athiya is going too. So, after the entry...they might need some privacy.

K: Come on Esh! I know that! I just need him for the pass. I won't disturb them, I promise.

E: I trust you Kavya and btw, the good news is Anna confirmed that your Avinash Singh indeed is a man of principles. So..

K: Yayyyyy! (jumping childishly) I knew it. I felt it the say we first heard each other's voice. I just can't wait to see him. Thank you so much, Eshaanvi.

E: Hmm..now, save my brother's number and he might sound...(hesitating) quite rude at times but that won't matter.

K: (gulping in nervousness) Why are you talking like your brother hates me already? Esh...generally, I'm not the types but you are scaring me.

E: (shaking her head for Kavya guessing the truth). Oh no! Nothing like that. Actually...

K: ...Esh, I have an idea. Why don't you just see me off to the entrance? In that way, you can re-introduce me to your brother. And yeah...I also need you to see if my dress is fine and of Avi is gonna like me this way.

E: (surprised by the proposal) Kavya, I..

K: Please, don't say no. You have already done a lot for me. Please, do this. Please...Please...Please...

E: uh...okay..fine but...

K: Yayyyyy! Love you so much, boo. Can't wait to see you.

E: But..

K: Okay, my mascara dried already. I'll talk to you later. I'm so glad you're coming.

Disconnected

^^^^^^^^

My head was spinning. Yes, I wasn't going inside by any means but I'm definitely not sure if accompanying Kavya till the entrance would be a good idea. Besides, what if Rahul gets mad! Come on! Why would he? But, does he actually needs a reason?

Moreover, Athiya's going to be there too. Oh  God! I never thought I was going to meet my brother's girlfriend this way.

I checked the wardrobe and the dresses were further confusing me.

I remember Hardik speaking trash the last time I decided to put something other than casual.

Ugh! Why am I even thinking about him?
Besides, I'm just going to be outside.

I took a deep breath and finally picked a dress. A classy wear with minimal makeup. My style.

After an Hour

'

Kavya, where are you? I've been waiting for 10 minutes now.' I said looking around uncomfortably at people slowly entering the stadium.

With Rahul not picking the phone, I felt so awkward standing here like a nobody. I saw few popular faces entering. And then there was this lavish black car.

Woah! Is that Priety Zinta?

A smile formed on my face. I've been a fan of her since Kya Kehna. And ignoring things, the fan inside me just wanted to go and talk to her but..

'Esh...what are you doing?' it was Kavya's voice from behind.

'Huh?' I looked at her.

'You were looking like a creep stalking her!' Kavya commented.

I looked around as Preity went inside with her securities.

Oh dear! Kavya is so right! And talking about Kavya...!

'Wow! You look so gorgeous, Kavya!' I couldn't help complimenting her in a saree.

'Aww! Thank you...' Kavya did a fake fanning near her face. 'By the way, you look stunning, Esh...you should try this more often.' Kavya said looking at my dress.

I smiled awkwardly. Well, I have no idea if she's really appreciating it or just trolling me.

Eshaanvi & Kavya look

'Trust me, I hate dressing up this way. But, in case, I get to meet Athiya today...I thought..' I shrugged.

'Hmm...so, your future sister-in-law made you rethink about your sense of style. Great going.' Kavya teased.

I scoffed. 'Movie stars, you know...btw, what's taking Rahul so long? I thought..' I couldn't finish my words as my eyes fell on someone familiar making his way.

'Oh shit! Cover me, Kavya...please...'I whispered trying to hide my face with my hair.

Kavya, who was confused as hell did nothing. 'What? Why? Wait, is that Ha..?'

'Hey! Is that you, tweety bird?' the annoying voice reached my ears.

Ugh!

There was a smirk on his face and a girl in his arm.

'What a pleasant surprise!' he walked towards me. 'And you must be Ravya-Kavya?' he said to Kavya pulling his glass slightly down his nostrils.

Kavya, who doesn't know him or his weird asf jokes yet, smiled. 'Not Ravya, I'm Kavya, Eshaanvi's friend from KDAH.' she introduced.

'Hmm...and you are going in with Rahul, right?' he asked.

'Yeah, but I felt pretty nervous. So, I asked Esh to accompany me, you know.' Kavya was pouring everything inside her in front of that creep.

'Hmm..' Hardik looked at me. 'Good idea, I must say. At least, 40 minutes less of her trapping herself within the four walls and plotting against people in her imagination.' he said.

I threw him a dirty look.

'Pandya, would you just shut up?' I finally made an eye contact with him.

He retained the eye contact for few seconds and then spoke out 'NO', making the girl beside him chuckle.

'It's a free country, dear. Why will I shut myself up and pretend to be a nerd like you. Come on! Eshaanvi, just look at the world. It's beautiful.' Hardik said dramatically, with the bitch continuing to laugh and Kavya joining in.

I looked at Kavya, with a dirty look and she stopped.

'Now, can you tell me, where's my brother?' I asked the important question.

'Your brother! Ugh! Don't even ask! He's never satisfied with the first look.So, the stylists keep on experimenting till he approves. I guess he's gone to pick up Shetty's daughter now.' Hardik sighed.

'Hmm...you can go now.' I said, not looking at Hardik or his expression.

'Harry, who is this girl and why is she so rude?' the girl with Hardik asked.

'What can I say babe? She was so much in love with me but I rejected her because she looked like a white swan.' Hardik said, and I immediately went near him and pushed him hard.

'What did you just say? I was in love with you? In your dreams, Pandya! And listen girl, your little boyfriend or whatever is the most annoying species in the world. I just hate him.' I said threatening both.

'Ouch! See, I told you she couldn't handle the rejection well.' Hardik said, making me grit my teeth.

Kavya couldn't control her laugh now.

'Woah! Till now, I only heard. But, now it really seems you two are always in a Tom and Jerry mode.' she said.

'Kavya...stop...' I said throwing her a glare.

'Wait! You have been talking about me to your friends as well?' Hardik asked raising his brow. 'Good to know.' he winked, making me want to smack his head on world's hardest ...

'Hardik, you...'

'Esh...Harry...!' Rahul's voice somewhat stopped me to think of other ideas to damage the sore face in front of me.

'Woah man...finally, someone to save me from his she-devil!' Hardik sneak away, like I was actually trying to kill him while the reality is, I was only planning.

'Uh....but, Esh, what are you doing here? I wasn't expecting you here!' Rahul said walking near me and making me aware of my existence in a place I had nothing to do.

'So, you're Eshaanvi!' an unfamiliar sweet voice met my ears and my eyes widened to see none other than my brother's girlfriend and bollywood actress, Athiya Shetty.

Shit! She just saw me trying to hit a frown up man at a public place. What a first impression!

'Uh...yeah, this is my youngest sister, Eshaanvi!' Rahul came holding my by him.
'..and this..is Athiya, as you know..' he said slightly hesitating.

I somehow managed to tame the beast inside me and gave her a warm smile.

'Hi'

'Hey!' Athiya said walking closer. 'Rahul talks a lot about you. I so wanted to see you. But, you know this busy schedule...'

'Oh! I totally understand ... even, I wanted to see you so much since I heard about...uh..' I bit my lip hesitating to say the rest.

Rahul seemed a little awkward too.

'Aww! You're sweeter than I imagined. Just as calm, composed and measured as your brother.' Athiya said.

Guess she won my heart already.

But, then...a roaring laughter interrupted us all.

'Really Athiya! Sweet, calm and composed!' Hardik burst into laughter again.

That humbug!

'Oh..trust me, I live with these two.' he came and stood behind us and hooked his arms around me and Rahul. 'These too are anything but calm. Living with them always feels like you are with some ferocious animal caged momentarily. One peep and unleashed....' he laughed.

I pushed his hand away in annoyance.

But, the worst part was Athiya chuckled. I saw Kavya snickering too. Oh! I almost forgot about her.

'Shut up Harry!' Rahul elbowed him, equally annoyed.

'Ouch..ugh! No room for truth, I guess.' he said pretending to be funny.

Jerk!

'But, Harry...I can't believe you have just one girl with you as an entrant.' Athiya said something, I almost forgot to notice.

'Yes Harry, where's Natasha?' Rahul, too questioned. 'And, hi Julie!'

Oh! So, that bitch is Julie!

'Ugh! Don't even mention her!' Hardik tried to shoo it away. 'She's just having a hard time, today.'

'Really?' Rahul asked, not believing.

'...Yeah, can you believe it, she had only one pimple this morning. But, by afternoon, she grew two more. This is so awful.' Julie said and I couldn't help but...

...burst out laughing.

'So, it was for that you were suggesting to apply toothpaste on!' I bellowed.

'Really?' both Athiya and Kavya.

Rahul scoffed too. 'Harry, you cannot be serious, man!!'

'Come on! I saw that on google. Many people were suggesting that!' Hardik explained.

'...and that suggestion might have caused her two more pimples.' I added, laughing hard, totally letting my vengeful side out.

Everyone laughed and Julie added, '..that's gross..' to add more to it.

'Fine, guys. Now, aren't we getting late?' Hardik said loud not being able to take the embarrassment. He had that sign of punch on his face without me even attempting it.

I somehow controlled myself from laughing further at his face.

'...and you must be the girl, who is supposed to get in with us.' Athiya said to Kavya, who nodded with an awkward smile. I can't blame her.

If I were here, I would have definitely felt odd imagining myself as the third wheel to enter the ceremony.

'Yes, this is my friend, Kavya and she kinda needed this pass so urgently to meet a friend of hers.' I added, to convince Athiya more.

'Yeah, Mr. Avinash Singh, a shareholder of our franchise.' Rahul added reluctantly.

'Oh! Not a problem. Come with us, Kavya.' Athiya said holding her hand.

Kavya looked at me nervously.

First off, Athiya and Rahul were stars and then, they were a couple. I can't blame Kavya.

'Uh..Thank you. I'm sorry to bother you all. But, I promise I won't once we enter.' Kavya  assured looking at Athiya and Rahul.

'Oh...please. Do away with your sorry, right now.' Rahul said in a quite rude voice, making Kavya almost scared.

Shit!

'Anna...'

'Esh already assured me that you aren't gonna be my problem once you get the entry. So, let's not waste more time in such bogus formalities.' Rahul added.

'Rahul...!' Athiya grabbed his arm tighter trying to calm him.

'Hey man! Calm down! Who'll need your company anyway when she'd have the company of one of your owners.' Hardik said elbowing Kavya lightly, making her smile in the process, even though most of it was forced from her behalf.

And for the first time, I wanted to thank him for his unexpected banters.

What's wrong with Rahul? I swear if he didn't have his girlfriend with him, I'd have..

'Uhm...Kavya, Rahul...let's go.' Athiya said getting in the middle and tangling her elbows with both.

I sighed in relief. Athiya was more matured and sensible than I thought. God! Please, don't let Rahul hurt Kavya more.

'Yeah...bye Esh.' Kavya said looking at me and the later of tears over her eyeballs didn't remain hidden from me.

'Yeah, good luck!' I said with a helpless smile, hoping she'd understand.

The trio walked few steps and then there was the gate. I saw Rahul, showing the security guard something and they were allowed inside.

Thank God!

'....and there are seven other spots as such. Just hope your brother stays calm.' I almost jumped by the sudden whisper against my ear.

Hardik looked away as I looked at him.

God! Why is Rahul so unpredictable?

'Look, who's saying?' Hardik chuckled. 'Like  brother, like sister...'

Wait! Did I say that aloud?

'You definitely did. And that's why I tell both of you to learn self-control.' Hardik said.

I rolled my eyes.

'Yeah...yeah...whatever!' I said.

'By the way, is that Avinash guy Kavya's crush or something?' Hardik asked suddenly.

I threw him a dirty look.

'Why do you care? And what made you think I'd actually share the information with you, if I do know?' I said sharply.

Hardik rubbed his neck thoughtfully. 'Of course, that's none of my business. But, the girl seemed too desperate to see the guy. You see, if a dude would speak to me like Rahul did with her, I'd have definitely backed off...'

'...why am I even talking to you?' I said trying not to hear the same words from Hardik that has been bothering me since the trio went.

Hardik frowned. 'Of course..' he went loud suddenly. 'There's no place for good in this earth. Why would you talk to me while I'm just trying to help? I was only thinking if the guy actually gives her the time she expects, since the business owners might be busy with stuffs tonight. And then she might have to hang with Rahul the whole time. But, who listens to me?'
'Let's go Julie, baby..' he said pulling Julie to him by her arms.

As they walked a bit away, I sighed. I don't know what I've people into.

What if Rahul shouts on Kavya again?
What if Avinash doesn't show up in front of Kavya?
What if Kavya is lost?
What if Kavya comes to Rahul for help and...
No. No. No. No. No.

I looked Hardik who had stopped to receive a certain call while the girl continued playing with his buttons. Ugh! Disgusting!

The Security Guards were talking to a couple with two kids. One carried my the mother and other holding hands. I guess there was an issue with the +2 only thing. But, the lady argued and another man from inside came in and tried sorting things.

I guess all of them would be permitted. By the way, may I just sneak inside to have a look at Kavya and Rahul. My morale won't allow me but the disturbed soul within me was so restless.

Suddenly, there was a huge roar.

'Virat Sir!' 'Virat Sir!' there were calls all around.

'Anushka Ma'am!'

Woah! Virushka is here! Wow! Virat looks even hotter in real! And Anushka is so beautiful!

The photographers became too active all of a sudden. I saw Hardik going near him as well. If I'm not wrong, Kohli and Anushka has to stay 30 minutes more just for weird photographs with weird people.

The Security Guards too were laughing for no reason.

My chance!

I walked fast dodging the crowd surrounding the power couple and went towards the gate, trying to sneak a little. It isn't like I was planning to cross all seven gates but a look at Kavya and Rahul would stop me. Then, I'd go back home and read more of Durjoy Dutta.

I tiptoed to the entrance while the guards were busy ogling Virushka. I crossed the gate, by chance but suddenly..

'Hey Miss! Did you register yourself?' a third guard arrived out of nowhere.

Ugh!

'Uhh...huh?' I was dead.

He eyed me suspiciously.

'You're with the sponsors?' he asked.

Sponsors? Who?

'No. I'm Esh...Eshaanvi. I'm actually...'

The other two guards became conscious now.

Ugh! Why can't they go watch Virushka from near?

'Miss, when did you come? I saw you standing there for a long time!' the older guard said.

Really? Weren't you watching Virushka?

'Yes. I was. I was waiting for someone, actually..' I chuckled trying to make stories.

'And who are you with? Do you have a pass?' the third security asked.

Oh no!

'I too saw her. She looked so suspicious to me.' the younger Security said.

The three looked at me as if trying to recognize me from the criminal diaries.

'Look, I'll just go. I...'

'Wait!' the third notorious Security Guard said. 'We are given strict orders to monitor everyone within the surroundings of this stadium. Guess, we have to check you and..'

'Checking? What do you mean?' I said in disbelief.

'Since, you couldn't produce any legal validation or a company pass, I guess you didn't leave us a choice, miss. We have to do some half an hour formalities with you.' the older guard said.

Oh my! What have I lead myself into? Ugh! Rahul! Kavya! Why did I care about them so much?

'...this perfume smells better than the previous, babe. You should do it more often.' I heard a familiar voice and there was Hardik and Julie walking towards the entrance.

My heart paced at the monstrous face of the Security Guards.

A joyous smile appeared on my face, like finding a drop of water in a dry desert.

'Hardik! There you are!' I helplessly grabbed his arm from the left side.

'Woah! Eshaanvi!' he looked at me confused and at his own arm super-confused.

'Mr. Pandya, do you know this girl? Is she with you?' the younger guard asked.

An utterly confused Hardik tried openi6his mouth but before he could..

'Yes, of course. I told you I was waiting for someone.' I answered on his behalf.

The Security Guards looked at Hardik confused and Hardik looked at me super-confused.

With a heavy heart and shattering ego, I gave him a pleading look, also blackmailing him my tightening my grip on his arm.

Hardik winced and looked at me with no  expression for a second. As if, he was frozen or stoned.

'So, she's with you?' the third notorious guard asked again.

It was Julie trying to act over smart again.

'No offi...'

'Yes, she's with me.' Hardik said, cutting her off much to my disbelief.

'Hardik Pandya plus Julie Bhatt plus Eshaanvi Lokesh..' he slightly smirked looking at me at the last part.

'Oh..' the notorious third officer looked at me, confused.

Phew! Your plan failed, Mr. Notorious!

Hardik showed the pass to them and signed something.

Thank god!

At times, we have to pretend to honor a fool when needed. Today, I realized it so well.

'Now, shall we go, babes?' Hardik smiled and before I knew his hand wrapped around my arms and I was dragged fast by the walking force.

'Let me go..'I whisper-yelled trying to get off his grip.

'Woah! Wasn't it few seconds ago that you pleaded me let you in and now, you're like let me go!' Hardik asked raising his brows.

'Ugh! Long story. Now, don't suffocate me.' I threw his hand off, making him sigh.

Hardik threw me a look of annoyance and turned to Julie as we all walked.

'You know, Jules...some people should grow up and just tell me that they want to go with me. I don't know why those people create these last minute chaos. So frustrating!' he said.

My fists clenched but knowing, I needed him for some more formalities I decided to keep him alive.

'Yes Harry! I can't believe she's still showing you attitude..!' the bitch said.

'Habit, baby habit! Some people would remain dissatisfied with their lives even if you give them the key to your treasure house.' he said.

After few more of his sick banters and more formalities, we finally reached the grandeur.

The lights were so beautifully adorning the beauty of the stadium. A sudden happiness creeped inside me.

My eyes searched for Rahul, Athiya and Kavya.

'Beautiful, ain't it, tweety?' Hardik asked again whispering against my ears.

I nodded looking around. It sure was.

'Come, I'll get you a good seat and you can search for Kavya while sitting there without awkwardly roaming around.' Hardik said.

I nodded and suddenly, I felt my hand unexpectedly grabbed by Hardik's. I had to grab my dress with the other hand just to decipher the unexpectedness.

And then, I realized...he indeed needed me to guide through the large crowd. I saw many popular faces like MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina, Ajinkya Rahane, David Warner, Kane Williamson, Chris Gayle and trust me, Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar.

Added to that, was the sweet melody preformed by Shilpa Rao.

Wow!

'Would've missed this thrill, if not for me, eh?' Hardik taunted watching me amused.

I smiled shaking my head.

'I can't believe I just saw Sachin.' I giggled like a teenager.

'Do you mean, you never saw him before?' that bitch Julie taunted.

'Why not? Million times on TV and trillion times in dreams.' I spoke back, making the bitch fake-smile.

'So, you can sit here.' Hardik mentioned guiding me to a seat. 'I guess me and Jules would join Deepak and Jaya.You can call Kavya if you need and of course, Rahul as well. They'd be shocked asf knowing you were going to be jailed few minutes ago just for their sake.'  he chuckled.

I scoffed, rolling my eyes.

'Yeah, the buggers won't even budge, probably...' I said taking the seat.

Hardik scoffed and grabbed Julie's hand.

'Let's go, babe. She's reached her destination.' he said.

I sure did. Thank God!

But, one thing that budged me was...

'Hardik!' I called him, making him turn around. 'How did you know I'm here for Kavya?'

Hardik smirked looking at me. '...because she was the only thing in your head when we last spoke. Besides, you being here to find the love of your life is quite unlikely, isn't it?' he scoffed.

I threw him a dirty look.

'Fuck off.' I said rolling my eyes.

He scoffed holding Julie's hand and walked off.

^^^^^^^^^^^

'Esh...what the hell are you doing here? And how did you get in? Did they misbehave with you..?' my brother went full on crazy mode after I called him and he ran to see me from the second row to the seventh row..

'Anna...I'm absolutely fine. I came with Hardik and I'm here to make sure Kavya has found Avinash and you didn't make her cry already.' I said truthfully.

Rahul's eyes widened.

'Seriously! You came here for that silly girl! Esh...I told you I was gonna land her well at her destination. Didn't you trust me?' Rahul asked restlessly.

'Not after how you behaved with her at the entrance.' I clarified.

'Oh! Come on Esh! Athiya was there with me. Even though she didn't say, do you really think she was happy with a random girl hanging with us?' Rahul presented his point,making me roll my eyes.

'Whatever...'

'Esh...you're in?' it was Kavya who located my seat now.

Actually, I called both Rahul and Kavya and told them where I was.

Unlike Rahul, Kavya was pretty pleased to see me.

Rahul looked at her totally unpleased though.

'Esh...I'll be back. Athiya must me waiting. Just sit at once place and do not move.' Rahul said, evidently wanting to avoid Kavya's presence.

Rahul left without sparing any eye for Kavya and Kavya looked down for a moment, till he was gone.

'So...?' I asked, making her lift up her head. There was a big smile on her face.

'Esh...Esh...Esh..you're here! I'm so happy! Kavya hugged me.

'Okay..Okay...that'll be enough.'I said chuckling and breaking the clutch of her saree laced hug.

Kavya giggled. 'By the way, how did you get in? And why didn't you tell me you were planning to get in?' she threw the questions impatiently while taking the seat next to me.

'Long story short. I had to come with Hardik to check on you.' I said. 'By the way, did you meet Avinash yet?' I asked.

Kavya was dumbstruck for a while.
'You seriously came here for me! That too with Hardik!' she almost went emotional.

I slapped her hand. 'Ugh! Please, don't remind me who I came with. Now, tell me about Avinash. Did you see him?'

Kavya smiled, looking down as a blush creeped on her cheeks.

'Yes, he was looking so hot. You know he just smiled and said, I look more beautiful in real. Then a meeting came up and he went away but he said he'll be back in 20 minutes, that is...ten minutes from now.' Kavya said excited.

A sense of relief washed me. So, the guy did meet her.

'But, you know Esh..' Kavya looked down sadly.

'I shouldn't have come with your brother.' he said.

True.

'He didn't seem to be in a good mood tonight. Besides, he had his girlfriend star Athiya Shetty with him. My presence must have upset him.' she said.

It was my turn to look down.

'Kavya, look...I'm so sorry for how Rahul treated you. You know, he's usually very calm, kind and well-mannered, especially with girls.' I tried to defend my stupid brother.

'I know.' Kavya smiled. 'After all, I'll always be grateful to him for making me meet the love of my life.' she said.

'So, you found your girl and forgot the man?' a voice emerged from behind.

'Stop it, Hardik. I found her, thank you.' I said trying to avoid trash talking in here.

'Well...finally, a thank you. Okay...that'll do for now.' Hardik said. 'You know you should be ever grateful to the witness who saved you from being jailed.' he said taking a seat beside Kavya.

'Jailed, who was?' Kavya asked curiously.

Hardik sighed dramatically. 'There was a girl, arguing with 3 security guards for around 15 minutes without a pass and then obviously, they offered to do a security checking, failing to which she would've been jailed. Now, no man can see this, right? Especially when the girl is an expert in putting muscles into places.'

This guy!

Kavya looked at me and gasped and started chuckling.

'Oh my god! Eshaanvi, you were about to be taken for Security check ups? Couldn't yiu just tell them you are the sister of KL Rahul or even the fact that you are a physio for the Mumbai Indians. I'm sure the team management would have helped you.' Kavya suggested.

Umm...

'Come on Ravya-Kavya, few people aren't blessed with brains! We cannot expect anything wise from them.' Hardik added.

Kavya chuckled again. 'So true..'

Who's side is she in?

My legs were shaking in fear and restlessness.

'By the way, did you find the person you were seeking?' Hardik asked Kavya.

'Oh...yes. But, he had to go for a meeting, you know. He said we'll be meeting in ten..' Kavya gasped realizing something. 'Shit! He must be waiting near the third row. I better get going.'

Kavya said standing up in hurry and moving out of our table.

'Good luck with your love story. Not everyone is lucky to have one.' Hardik said behind her and the last part, definitely more near my ears.

Asshole!

'...some people do spend their lives reading others' ..' he said evidently to me.

'...better than the people getting their ink finished to write many..' I said pushing him pretty hard before getting up.

'Ouch! Crazy girl! Just tried to make me fall off my chair!' I heard him tell others dramatically.

I walked towards the washroom, running my fingers through my hair.

I somehow adjusted my hair to come till the entrance. Who knew I had to come inside?

Nargis Fakhri was performing a dance number at this moment.

I finally located the washroom, to fix my hair and suddenly...

'Excuse me, did you drop this?' a sudden voice stopped me.

Huh?

I turned around to see a tall guy holding one of my hair pins, that might've fallen while I was brushing my hair with my fingers.

The guy before me had perfect features and the black-grey striped jacket was accentuating his handsome features.

But, did I see this guy before?

'Uh...yes, thank you.' I said not wasting more time and taking the pin from his hand.

'You're most welcome.' the guy said with a sweet smile and walked off.

Well, he seems...

...got to fix my hair fast.

^^^^^^^^^^

I came out, in a much decent way. God! I looked horrible with my disheveled hair.

What would that guy think of me?

Ugh! Why am I thinking about him, anyway?

I went to the seat again but before I could sit...

'Tweety...Tweety...' I felt someone or rather an annoyingly familiar arms grab me from behind.

'Ouch! Hardik, what's wrong with you?' I said angrily.

I could have died in shock by the way he suddenly grabbed me.

'Just get me inside you..'

'What on earth!' I gritted my teeth looking back at the insensible jerk.

'....I mean, hide me behind you, if that makes sense.' he said literally trying to hide in front of thousands of people in the stadium.

'You're crazy? Let me go..' I pulled myself off his grip.

'Just few seconds more. My ex is gonna leave. She's searching for me like a lion.' he said.

I looked at him confused.

'Ex? The last time, I knew...exes are supposed to avoid each other, aren't they?' I added.

Hardik shook his head.

'...that is the problem. I am indeed avoiding her but the crazy soul is not ready to believe that he's my ex. She thinks we are still on. Can you believe her?' he said, as if he was an innocent child.

I fake smiled and sat on my place.

'I can't believe you. You must've given her a hint that you two aren't over. Or else why would a girl.. ouch..!'

I winced as Hardik suddenly went down under the table, brushing against my legs.

'What are you...?'

'Hush...! Ellie's here!' he whispered, with a pleading look.

If it were some other day, I'd have made sure his ex girlfriend taught him a lesson but the pleading look reminded me of the one I gave him earlier tonight. So...ugh! I owe him.

Ellie Abram walked near the table and looked around. She indeed had a fierce look on her face. Who knows what that jerk did to her?

I tried to composed myself and act normal, like I didn't want to kick the person under.

Finally, she went.

'Up. She's gone.' I signalled.

'Thank Heavens!' Hardik came up. 'Thank you tweety! You don't know how much you helped me today.' he said sitting beside me with a sigh.

'Hmm...but, where's your Julie?' I asked the obvious. And his reply was.

'Who knows? May be chilling with other cheer leaders.' he said.

I straightened myself.

'She's a cheerleader in IPL? For which team?' I asked.

'No team. The concept of cheerleader have sadly been banned for last two years. She did once for KKR or RCB, may be. Yeah, the other cheerleader Monica introduced us.' Hardik said.

'Thank goodness, the trend is banned and the pretty ladies are saved from your devilish clutch.' I said with disgust.

Hardik threw me a 'really' look and chuckled.

'...they were dying to be with the devil, babe.' He winked with a smirk and I just rolled my eyes not wanting to participate in this dirty conversation.

Now, it was Mahendra Singh Dhoni felicitating some young and talented under 15 cricketers.

Wow! So encouraging!

Tbey were further cheered up by three ex-contestants of Indian Idol.

'Esh, Oh! Harry is here, too.' I suddenly heard my brother's voice interrupting the melody.

Ugh! Rahul has the worst timing!

I soo, realized Rahul wasn't alone and this time, it wasn't Athiya that accompanied him. There were few other cricketers.

'...there you two are!' Krunal was there two.

'Hey!' I smiled at him, still unable to keep myself off the influence of beautiful music.

'....I was just messing around trying to avoid Ellie and then suddenly, I spotted her almost about to cry. So, I thought...' Hardik lied so shamelessly.

I'm not the one to be silent either. 'What? Didn't you just hide under the table and almost begged me to...'

'Really Harry! Under the table!' A cricketer with Rahul said and they all laughed.

I laughed from inside sparing a look at some unknown faces, now teasing Hardik.

Wow! Jab koi baat bigad jaye! One of my favorite songs!

From the chattering noise beside, I could guess that more people had gathered beside my seat and some even took the chairs.

But, the song!

Wow! I remember the first time I heard it....

'Esh! You don't want some soft drink, do you?' Rahul asked, making me aware that he desperately wanted me to say 'no'.

'Huh?' I finally broke the gaze off the stage and looked at my brother and other players and...

I had to gasp innerly.

'Actually, my sister is very much health conscious. She hates having cold stuffs after sunset.' Rahul lied to the crew.

Why does this guy think all the drinks in this world would be spiked for me? He always does that!

'Uh...actually...' I was craving for some Coke.

'Well, I guess I didn't introduce you to the boys yet.' Rahul, knowing my craving changed the topic.

I wanted to roll my eyes and throw him a glare but, something made me too aware of my behavior.

'This is my youngest sister Eshaanvi. She's a Physiotherapist at KDAH and this time, she's also chosen as a Physio for MI.' Rahul explained.

'Hi!' I said smiling at them.

'Hello! Good to know you and I'm from Mumbai Indians as well. So, shall definitely meet.' a guy said.

I just smiled not knowing what to say.

'...before she freaks out trying to guess who's who..' Hardik spoke suddenly. 'This is Surya Kumar Yadav, we call him SKY.' he introduced.

'Oh...hey Sky!' I said rather awkwardly.

'And this is Ishaan from MI, you already know Krunal, this is Rishav from Delhi Capitals, Sanju from Rajasthan Royals and this is Shreyas from Delhi.' he said making me freeze at the last guy, the same guy who got me the hair pins.

^^^^^^

'Hi!' Eshaanvi smiled mostly looking at the guy she got to know last.

'Hello Eshaanvi! It'd be fun to have you as a Physio.' Ishaan said. 'Got to get some unknown scoops about your brother.'

'Shut up!' Rahul hit Ishan's back playfully. 'I've got no skeletons in the closet.'

'Who knows..' Hardik spoke. 'But, one thing is more sure...we all got to save our own skeletons once this species gets to treat our pains.' he added.

Eshaanvi was pissed, as few of them laughed but right now, she was slightly aware of what impression she was giving to the people around her.

'Harry! Stop this! He's always teasing this innocent girl.' Krunal protested.

'Innocent, like really? Too bad you didn't see her rush at you with a knife and hit you with anything that's near her hand.' Hardik said relating to his own experiences.

Eshaanvi's eyes widened, not believe Hardik just embarrassed her in front of other players. What are they...or rather what would 'he' think of her?

Her fists clenched.

'I don't believe that, Harry! She seems so polite!' Rishav said chuckling.

'Ugh! She's anything but...'

'Oh! Her and Harry are always arguing with something or the other at home.' Rahul cut him off.

Eshaanvi was happy that finally her brother did something wise. Her feet tapped on the floor all the while while her fingers played with one another in desperate attempt to hold back and not create the ceremony a mess with Hardik's blood.

'Personally, I don't see a problem with that.' the least heard voice finally reached Eshaanvi's ears. 'Knowing how out of hand Harry gets at times, it's normal for anyone to get a devil out of her.' Sreyash said.

Eshaanvi's heart stopped.

Sreyash took her side. She felt a little lit up, even though she knew she shouldn't expect much from this brief encounter.

'Exactly! I know my brother too well. He can give anyone a headache.' Krunal said.

Eshaanvi chuckle. 'I'm glad I'm not alone.' she finally replied to Krunal, while sparing a slight glance towards Shreyas.

She counseled her mind not to be a creep. No one develops a crush that soon!

If she wasn't wrong, the well-built right handed batsman from Mumbai returned the smile.

Oh dear! She tried not to blush, especially with her brother near.

'....in that case, she could actually make something for all our whole team, some day.' Ishan commented as Krunal informed them about Eshaanvi's cooking skills.

'Guys...my sister is already nervous with this Physio thing since she's not much into cricket. Don't vest more on her.' Rahul said protectively hugging his sister from the side of her seat.

Eshaanvi smiled.

'Don't worry, Anna. Once I get to know, how it's done in the field, I'll definitely make the best cuisine for them.' She said with excitement. 'And I'm sure, you all are gonna help me in getting comfortable with the thing.' she said looking at the players hopefully.

'Definitely. You are Rahul's sister, you're like a sister to us too. That's our job.' SKY said.

Hardik coughed. 'Man! You got to be fucking kidding me! If that's the case, I hereby, with my heartfelt consent quit from this horrendous new found job my friend Rahul has been bearing so patiently for years.' he said dramatically folding his hands.

'Can you believe it? You'd have to be ready with a ice bag for her head in every 10 minutes!' he added.

Eshaanvi's blood boiled. Guess her intention to impress Shreyash wasn't as much as her wish to smack Hardik's head.

'So well. I too, would never consider someone like you as my brother. Far from that, I don't even consider you as a human being.' Eshaanvi burst with gritted teeth, even though in a low voice.

'Woah!' Hardik smirked raising his hands in surrender. 'Your sister guys! Your responsibility!' he joked.

'Esh...stop..' Rahul insisted being slightly embarrassed.

Well, apart from certain circumstances, he has always known his sister to be a well-behaved, sweet girl. This was definitely not her. About Hardik, he knew he was helpless already.

Eshaanvi was more pissed. Really! Rahul was asking her to stop.

'Well..not her fault, actually. Harry started this.' Sanju rightly pointed.

'Harry! You don't even care about the other person's feelings before you speak, do you?' Krunal asked annoyed on his brother.

Hardik didn't say anything and just shrugged focussing on his drink.

'Why? Do I owe her a box of sweet from my last birth?' he said after taking a gulp.

That part right there, broke the last bar of tolerance in Eshaanvi.

'You're such an ass, Pandya.' Eshaanvi stood up and hit the hardest punch on Hardik's arm, before walking away in rush.

Enough is enough!

Following the incident, Hardik definitely had a full share of death glares from people around him.

'Harry, you didn't even let her enjoy the ceremony!' Krunal pointed.

'Ask her, who got her to the ceremony!'

'That's not the issue. She seems hurt, Harry!' Sky pointed.

'Let her brothers manage that.'

....

The rest of it didn't reach Eshaanvi's ears. Her eyes were almost burning. Anger, embarrassment, hatred...everything seemed to be flaring out of her.

Why did she even come here? Oh! Kavya! Where's she?

Eshaanvi decided to call her.

^^^^^

'Esh...over here.' Kavya gave her the signals.

Eshaanvi finally found a little peace, knowing Kavya was happy. Moreover, there was a young man beside her. Is that Avinash?

Eshaanvi went to the table Kavya and Avinash sat at the third row.

'Hey! How's it going?' she asked her friend.

'Greeaat and all thanks to you.' Kavya hugged her giggling.

'Esh...this is Avinash, and Avinash, this is Eshaanvi and she is...'

'I'm a Physiotherapist at KDAH. That's how we met.' Eshaanvi said not wanting to pull the fact of being KL Rahul's sister in here.

'Oh hey! Eshaanvi! I'm Avinash!' the guy extended his hand.

Eshaanvi shook it with a smile.

'Trust me, I'm so glad that you two finally met.' Eshaanvi confessed. 'Just make sure, my girl never gets sad. She has already seen a lot..' Eshaanvi said looking at Kavya affectionately.

Kavya smiled.

'Don't worry, Eshaanvi! Kavya had told me everything about her family and now that I'm with her, I'm never gonna make her bow down to them.' Avinash said.

Eshaanvi smiled, finally, trusting Kavya's choice.

'Now, happy?' Kavya asked, knowing Eshaanvi's suspicions over a social-media relationship.

One thing that Eshaanvi noticed was Kavya couldn't stop smiling for a second. She seemed so happy.

'I'm so happy for you, Kavya.' she said, even ignoring what happened few minutes ago.

'Hm...and tell your friend to cry less. She cries a lot.' Avinash said wrapping his arm around Kavya, a bit too intimately if it could be added.

Eshaanvi smiled awkwardly and the certain sense of awkwardness was reflected in Kavya's face as well but, the latter just kept smiling.

'Yeah...I will and I guess, now you're there to manage her as well.' Eshaanvi added, carefully pulling herself off the seat.

'Anyway, you guys have fun and Kavya, do call me when you want to be back.' Eshaanvi says knowing Kavya was the only one who she could have as a comfortable exit partner.

'Okay, Esh...' Kavya smiled.

Eshaanvi left the spot releasing a deep sigh of discomfort.

She definitely needs some coke.

She spotted the bar where various alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks were taken from and served to the guests.

'One coke please. No add ons.' Eshaanvi asked leaning against the counter.

Her eyes fell on the waiter, who nodded and passed an already prepared iced coke to someone who stood behind her and probably asked before her.

But, to her disbelief, the glass was soon held at her direction as the sweet voice said, 'You can have mine. I'll take yours.' Sreyash held his glass for her, with a charming smile on his face.

Eshaanvi couldn't believe her eyes.

'You?' she spoke out before she could stop herself.

'Yeah, I already had one with others and ordered this only because I felt bored. You can have it.' he insisted again.

'Uhh...thanks..' Eshaanvi said taking the glass of coke.

'So, Hardik seems to have pissed you off?' Sreyash asked, much to Eshaanvi's annoyance on the memory.

'...not that, actually.' she tried to play it cool in front of him. 'I'm kinda habituated with his antics. I just walked away because I felt bored and needed to see my friend, Kavya.' she made up a more dignified story, amidst the nervous throbbing of her heart.

'Oh..' Sreyash said. 'Thanks..' he said taking the drink from the waiter. 'You know, actually Hardik could be annoying at times but he isn't a bad guy, you know.' Sreyash added.

Eshaanvi gulped through her drink.

Who said Hardik is a bad guy, he's the worst already, she thought.

'Yeah, he plays pranks at times but he's usually sweet with ladies.' Sreyash continued and all Eshaanvi thought was...

Cannot they speak of something other than that ominous jerk?

^^^^^

'Well, guess, I'm the problem then.' I scoffed not knowing how to react on that.

Sreyash chuckled. 'Oh no! Not at all.' he gulped his drink. 'By the way, you don't seem to be too fond of gatherings and parties..!' Sreyash said looking around and the obviousness of the situation was damn embarrassing. But, let's face it..

'Not actually. I'd rather prefer, sitting in my own room, reading a book or playing Ludo with myself.' I shrugged, making sure I don't look too impulsive in my body language.

The first impression with Sreyash seems well till now. I don't want to ruin it.

'Wow! That's....unique.' Sreyash said in disbelief. 'By the way, I'm in the same, league and that's the reason, I'm here, away from all, with a glass of soft drink in my hand.'

Well, twin flames, are we?

'....and talking to another such individual with a similar glass.' I added, making him chuckle. I joined too.

With his approach, Sreyash seemed really gentle and calculated. He doesn't speak more than necessary. I like it.

'So, Mr. Iyer...!' I begun. 'From Mumbai?'

'Well... I'm basically a Mangalorean Tuluva from Kerala. My family had moved to Mumbai and hence, yeah...I'm from Mumbai.' Sreyash said.

I. couldn't. believe. it.

I too am a Mangalorean Tuluva but with our cultures amalgamation, my family is mostly speaks Kannada.

'Undu inchana? You too?' a big smile appeared on my face.

'and...' he replied, making me chuckle. Sreyash scratched the back of his neck with a boyish smile.

'Sorry, my vocabulary sucks. But, I often practice with Rahul.' he said.

His come Rahul never mentioned that? And most importantly, mentioned him? Of course, does Rahul get a scope of talking about his other pals when that devil is around!

But, with Sreyash, things seem different. Like, I was so cautious of my goodness, like I needed to look good, not just verbally but also in nonverbal terms.

He spoke certain things about how he came to Mumbai and how his interest in cricket rose and without even knowing, we actually started walking to the other row instinctively.

'By the way, you completed your graduation in Mangaluru, Miss...'

'It's just Eshaanvi, Mr. Iyer!' I corrected.

Sreyash smiled. 'Well...Sreyash for you in that case.' he said, looking at me and making me blush.

'Uh...well, Sreyash...' I blushed again but made sure he never sees. 'No, I completed it from CMC, Vellore and I also have plans to study further in Mumbai.' I admitted.

'Nice!' Sreyash complimented. 'I must say, you are as ambitious as your brother.' he said.

'Kind of..' I smiled, feeling flattered.

Suddenly, the moment was ruined by a stupidass IPhone classic tone from Sreyash' phone.

Ugh! I just started feeling comfortable!

'Excuse me..'

'Not a problem. Go ahead.' I said not showing my feelings.

'Oh..yeah. Hmm...shall be there.' Sreyash spoke to someone and disconnected quickly.

'Um...Rishav, it was. Actually, there's a team photo shoot in few minutes. Would you mind, if I..?' Sreyash being the gentleman asked.

'Oh no! Not at all. Go ahead. Have a great time.' I said somehow containing my restless mind.

'Okay, but you...' Sreyash being a gentleman enquired.

'Oh! I'll be with Kavya, my friend!' I said pointing to a random location, to save myself from solitary embarrassment.

'Okay, uhh...it was really great seeing you Eshaanvi. Hope, you'll meet again.' Sreyash smiled hopefully.

'Yeah...hopefully..' I added, meaning it from the core of my heart.

He left. I watched him go. My heart was pacing.

God! He's just my kind of guy!

Nope. No expectation from a 2 hour old crush.

^^^^^

As I walked in pursuit of none, I couldn't just get Sreyash off my mind.

I smiled at my stupidity.

'What makes you smile alone?' I heard a rather angry voice and as ai said, Rahul has the worst times.

'Uh..nothing Anna. Just...' I was too nervous for some reason.

'Keep smiling here while on the other hand...' he looked away angrily not finishing his sentence.

'What happened? Who..?'

'Your dear friend, Kavya.' Rahul said, making my eyes widen in disbelief.

What happened with her?

////////////////

To be continued in 'Overlooked'