Awakening Hearts

Chapter 4

The morning sun had barely risen when Shubman Gill, the young cricket sensation, stirred from his slumber. The world outside was just waking up, but inside, Shubman's day was already set in motion. With a stretch and a yawn, he slipped out of bed, his mind still foggy with dreams. He donned his workout attire, a silent promise to himself to push his limits at the gym.

As he lifted weights and ran on the treadmill, his thoughts were a mix of concentration and anticipation for the day ahead. It was then that Ishan, his teammate and friend, approached with a casual stride. "Bro, coming for breakfast?" he inquired, a friendly nudge in his voice.

Shubman, lost in his routine, barely glanced up as he shook his head. "No, you go," he replied, his focus unbroken. Ishan's brow furrowed in concern, but he respected the silence and moved on.

Ishan's next stop was Kiara, the team's psychologist and a close confidant. "Kiara, he's not coming for breakfast," he relayed, a hint of worry lacing his words.

Kiara, understanding the unspoken bond between athletes and their regimen, nodded thoughtfully. She made her way to the gym, her steps echoing softly in the corridor. There, she found Shubman, a solitary figure on the bench, sipping water and catching his breath.

"Why are you not coming down for breakfast?" she asked, her tone gentle yet firm.

Shubman looked up, his eyes meeting hers. "Because, I don't want to eat," he said simply, a shadow crossing his features.

Kiara stepped closer, her presence warm and reassuring. "Please come down, Shubman," she urged, her voice soft but insistent.

He hesitated, then relented with a sigh. "Fine. By the way, Kiara, I was going to meet my sister. Would you like to come with me?"

Her response was immediate and enthusiastic. "Sure, why not? But first, have breakfast."

Shubman nodded in agreement and retreated to his room. The shower's cascade was refreshing, washing away the remnants of his workout. He emerged dressed in comfortable clothes, ready to face the day.

Downstairs, the breakfast table was abuzz with the team's chatter. Shreyas, ever the joker, announced Shubman's arrival with grandeur. "Here comes the Prince of Indian Cricket, Shubman Gill. We are very honored that the Prince himself has graced us with his presence."

A light smile played on Shubman's lips, mirrored by Kiara's own. She caught a glimpse of his dimples and couldn't help but think, "His dimples are so cute. They make his face so pretty. His features are also picture-perfect."

Shubman took his seat next to Virat, the team's captain, and Ishan couldn't resist teasing him. "Veere, you left me?" he joked.

Shubman rolled his eyes, a playful retort on his lips. "Shut up, yaar, I'm hungry."

The table erupted in laughter, even Bumrah, who choked on his food in surprise. "What did you say?" he coughed out.

"I'm hungry," Shubman repeated, a frown creasing his brow.

Bumrah's reaction was immediate and heartfelt. He hugged Shubman, serving him breakfast with a brotherly affection. Shubman's smile, small but genuine, was a rare sight as he began to eat.

Rohit leaned in to whisper to Virat, a knowing look in his eyes. "I guess Kiara's presence has brought a change in him. He never spoke so much. I have a feeling that we'll get our old Shubi back."

Virat nodded solemnly. "You're right, Ro. I really want our old Shubi back. That lively charm is no more in us without his cheerful and goofy behavior."

Ishan, feeling left out, poked Virat. "Vi Bhai, include me also in the conversation. I'm bored."

Virat's response was teasing. "Go and talk to your Veere."