Ashu forced to become Ashika

Chapter 8: Moments of Rebellion

Scene: Village cricket ground, late afternoon.

With Mandeep's arrival scheduled for the next day, Ashu finds himself suffocated by the changes he's been forced into. The dresses, the hair, the demeanor—it's all become too much to bear. Feeling like he's about to explode, he sneaks out of the house and makes his way to the village cricket ground.

Ashu: (muttering to himself) I can't take this anymore. I need a break.

As he reaches the cricket ground, the familiar sound of leather on willow hits his ears like a soothing melody. He watches the ongoing match, his heart aching to join in.

Raj: (spotting Ashu) Well, well, look who's decided to escape the land of dresses.

Ashu: (grinning) Raj, you have no idea how much I needed this.

Raj hands him a bat, and Ashu's fingers wrap around the handle, the familiarity comforting.

Raj: (tossing the ball) Go on, show us what you've got.

Ashu steps up to the crease, his heart racing with anticipation. With each swing of the bat, the frustration and anger he's been holding inside start to dissipate. The ball flies through the air, a reminder of the boy he truly is, not the "Ashika" he's been forced to become.

Ashu: (breathing heavily) This feels like home.

Raj: (smiling) You're not the only one who's missed you on the field.

The match continues, and Ashu finds himself immersed in the game. The dirt, the sweat, the camaraderie—everything feels right. With every boundary he hits, he rediscovers a piece of himself that's been buried under layers of dresses and dupattas.

Raj: (laughing) Look at you, Ashu. You're on fire!

Ashu: (grinning) It's like I never left.

As the sun starts to set, Ashu's worries andfrustrations seem a little lighter. He's been reminded of who he truly is, evenin the midst of the chaos he's been living. As he walks back home, he carries anewfound sense of determination—a quiet rebellion against the role he's been forcedinto.