OPPOSITES: S.GILL

4

The estate was abuzz with activity as servants rushed around with flowers, decorations, and various preparations. I was carrying a box of dance props, which Mummy told me to keep in the closet near the stage. What stage?

"Let's see. Where should these go?"

I looked around, and there he was, the "famous cricketer" Shubman strutting in confidently, wearing a sporty outfit and carrying a cricket bat. What a joke.

"Hey. You must be the famous dancer everyone's talking about."

"And you must be the cricketer who's always hogging the spotlight." I slightly annoyedly spoke.

"Guilty as charged. I'm Shubman."

"Ilaya," I spoke flatly as he shook my hand. Didn't we meet yesterday?

"So, what's in the box? Some secret dance moves?"

"Wouldn't you like to know? I doubt you could keep up anyway."

"Is that so? Well, I could say the same about you and cricket." Shubman shrugged as I shook my head.

"Cricket isn't exactly my thing," I spoke defensively as Shubman gasped

"Oh really? Why?

"Easily. Not everyone finds it thrilling to watch people hit a ball around." I irritatedly spoke

"You haven't seen a match I've played in."

"And I don't intend to." I dryly spoke as we both stared at each other, the air thick with mutual annoyance.

"Excuse me, could one of you help with these?" A servant asked as I grinned

"Perfect timing. I'll handle it." I grabbed the tray and walked away. I could tell Shubman was watching me with curiosity and definitely frustration.

As I made my way down the hall, I couldn't help but glance back at Shubman, who was talking to another guest. He looked back at me, and I saw him give me a small, knowing smile. I quickly looked away as I felt an unexpected flutter in my chest.

"Get it together, Ilaya. Focus."

************

I sat in the dance area, setting up my props and rehearsing my choreography. I tried my best to focus on the upcoming performance, but thoughts of Shubman kept intruding.

"Why does he have to be so annoying? And why can't I stop thinking about him?" I murmured to myself

I moved gracefully through my routine as I heard footsteps approaching. I turned to see Shubman standing at the entrance, leaning casually against the doorframe, watching me with a smirk.

"Wow, you're really good. I can see why everyone's so excited about your performance." He smiled as I rolled my eyes

"What do you want, Shubman?" I annoyedly asked

"Just wanted to see what all the fuss was about."

"Look, I have a lot to do. Can you bother someone else?" I sighed

"Alright, alright. I'm leaving, sweetheart."

"Don't call me that, and thank you."

**************

so cute i love them sm