Night of 25TH

CHAP 20: Softening Hearts Slowly

Past:

Shubman

Four days had passed since the unexpected roadside meeting with Ishan and Anya. Since that moment, we all have been caught up in the flow of our individual lives. Yet, within me, I felt a newfound calm—a sense of relief in knowing that the first step toward reconciliation with Anya had been taken. It gave me hope that the process of patching things up with her could lead to something beautiful. I was at ease now, the weight of uncertainty lifted, and I looked forward to the possibility of repairing our bond.

Currently, I find myself at the bustling Mumbai airport, a hive of activity where travellers move with a clear sense of purpose. The Indian cricket team had gathered near the entrance, dressed in an Adidas travel kit and carrying bags, all set for our journey to Hyderabad for the upcoming test match against England. Amidst the chaos, my focus shifted to Ishan. His restless demeanour was evident as he paced restlessly back and forth, his gaze unswervingly locked onto the procession of vehicles entering the airport. His watchful stance held an air of anticipation, his eyes keenly awaiting Anya, the holder of our precious flight tickets.

"Come on, Anya," he muttered under his breath, his fingers tapping restlessly against his thigh. He couldn't shake the edginess that had taken over him. The team's laughter and camaraderie surrounded him, but his focus was singular.

Leaning casually against a nearby pillar, I observed Ishan's agitated pacing. With a hint of understanding, I sauntered over to my friend.

"Easy, Ishan," I reassured, giving his shoulder a reassuring pat. "She'll make it in time."

Ishan's gaze met mine, his impatience evident in the furrowed lines of his forehead. "Yeah, but we've got a flight to catch, and Anya's the one holding the tickets."

A chuckle escaped me. "Anya's got this under control. She's pretty organized, you know."

As I spoke, I couldn't help but feel confident in Anya's abilities. Her efficiency was a trait we all knew and appreciated, and I was certain she would have everything sorted out as usual.

Almost as if on cue, one of the car doors opened with a huge force, and there she was – Anya. She moved with purpose, striding briskly into the airport. Her hair, slightly tousled by the wind, and her flushed cheeks gave away the haste of her journey. Clad in the team's official international travel gear, her BCCI jacket added an extra layer of authority to her hurried demeanour. The sight of her instantly put Ishan's concerns to rest, and I exchanged a knowing look with him, silently acknowledging that Anya had once again proved herself to be the dependable force we all relied on.

"Finally!" Ishan exclaimed, his voice tinged with a mix of exasperation and relief.

Anya reached the group, a breathless smile on her lips. "Sorry, sorry! Traffic was a nightmare."

Ishan chuckled, shaking his head. "Typical Mumbai traffic."

"Ishan, can you hold onto these for me while I get things sorted?" Anya asked, handing over her suitcase and another smaller, plumper bag. I couldn't help but wonder what could be inside it.

"Coolie hu kya mein tera?" Ishan asked with a mock pout.

"Coolie nhi, but definitely a helpful friend," she replied, chuckling and pinching his cheeks playfully.

"And what's in this bag?" Ishan questioned, lifting the smaller bag and inspecting it curiously.

"Be gentle with it," she warned, her teeth clenched in a slightly exasperated smile.

"What's so mysterious about this bag?" he persisted, attempting to unzip it.

"You don't just go opening someone's bag like that, it's rude," Anya scolded gently, swiftly closing the zipper.