𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑯𝒊𝒅𝒅𝒆𝒏 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔

𝟭𝟯. 𝗣𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗮𝗹

Chapter Thirteen: Pampered Prince Proposal

The test series was coming to a close with a draw seemingly inevitable. Shubman sat in the player's gallery, feeling a wave of exhaustion wash over him as he watched the seventh and eighth batsmen tirelessly defend each ball. The fifth test was mere minutes away from ending, and the clock was inching closer to 5 in the evening.

Despite the impending draw, Shubman couldn't help but reflect on his remarkable debut series, where he had amassed an impressive 300 runs. Despite his desire for more runs, Shubman knew that what he needed most at that moment was some much-needed sleep. As he leaned back, stretching his tired muscles, his gaze wandered towards the dressing room.

Inside, he noticed Virat and Nehmat standing alone, away from prying eyes and camera lenses. Virat's face was contorted with anger as he exchanged heated words with Nehmat, who was trying to calm him down by placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. However, Virat angrily jerked away from Nehmat's touch, his frustration evident.

Shubman's eyebrows furrowed as he observed the heated exchange between Virat and Nehmat. His gaze shifted to Nehmat, who appeared visibly distressed but seemed to find solace when Virat tenderly kissed her forehead. Unbeknownst to Shubman, Virat caught sight of him watching them.

Nehmat nodded in response, her expression softening as Virat spoke with a mixture of gentleness and firmness, ensuring their conversation remained private. "We'll talk later," Virat said, his tone masking the content of their discussion.

Nehmat closed her eyes tightly, taking a series of deep breaths to compose herself as Virat made his way onto the field for the customary handshakes. She followed suit after a moment, needing a brief moment alone to collect her thoughts.

Shubman made a mental note to talk to Nehmat when they had some privacy. He descended onto the field, exchanging handshakes with the players during the post-match rituals. The post-match presentation and the sharing of the trophy followed this. The tour of New Zealand came to an end, marked by plenty of drama and love for Shubman.

Shubman noticed Nehmat choosing to sit away from him on the bus, and he understood her decision, considering the presence of others around them. However, what puzzled him was the vacant expression on her face. Despite the urge to reach out and comfort her, perhaps by gently brushing a strand of hair from her face or giving her a reassuring kiss, he knew he had to restrain himself until they were alone in the hotel room.

Throughout the bus ride, Shubman couldn't shake off the feeling of unease caused by Nehmat's distant demeanour. He longed to comfort her, to erase whatever worries were clouding her mind, but he respected her need for space in the public eye.

As they finally reached the hotel, Shubman's heart raced with anticipation. He knew that once they were alone, he could finally address whatever was troubling Nehmat. With each step towards their room, he couldn't help but wonder what awaited them behind closed doors.

As soon as they entered their respective rooms, Shubman wasted no time. Without hesitation, he swiftly opened the connecting door between their rooms and pulled Nehmat into a tight embrace. Cupping her face gently in his hands, he searched her eyes for any sign of what was bothering her, his concern evident in his expression.

"Nehmat," he whispered softly, his voice filled with tenderness and reassurance, "What's been troubling you? You know you can tell me anything."

She chuckled softly and brushed her lips against his, saying, "Relax, Kaake. I'm just exhausted, that's why I have that look." She knew she was lying, but she needed to maintain confidence in her explanation.