The Bond ❤️❤️

ShubhRat

Ishan, Yashaswi (whom Shubh affectionately called Yashu), and Dhruv were lounging in the team room, exchanging banter and laughter. Their playful teasing was usually a source of joy for Shubh, but today it felt different.

Ishan leaned back, a mischievous glint in his eye. "You know, Shubh, Vi Bhai really does treat you like a kid," he said, smirking.

Yashaswi, or Yashu as Shubh called him, chuckled. "Yeah, it's like he can't help himself. Always looking out for his little brother."

Dhruv added, "Maybe you should start calling him Dad instead of Vi bhaiya!"

Normally, Shubh would have laughed along, basking in the attention and affection implied by their words. But today, the constant ribbing felt like a relentless drumbeat in his head. He forced a smile, trying to brush off the irritation that was steadily growing.

Just then, Virat Kohli, or Vi as his teammates affectionately called him, walked in. His presence was commanding yet comforting, and Shubh usually felt a surge of warmth seeing him. "Shubh, it's getting late. You should head to bed early," Vi said kindly, unaware of the ongoing teasing.

The others exchanged knowing looks, snickering quietly. Shubh felt the pressure of their eyes and the weight of their unspoken words. The irritation bubbled up, and before he could stop himself, he snapped. "I'm not a kid, Vi! Stop treating me like one!"

Silence fell over the room. Vi's expression shifted from confusion to hurt. He nodded slowly, a flicker of pain in his eyes. "Alright, Shubh. Goodnight," he said softly, turning and leaving the room.

Rahul and Harry had been observing the scene from a corner. Rahul, known as Vi's Kiddoliya, felt a surge of anger. "What the hell, Shubh!" he began, stepping forward to confront Shubh.

Harry put a hand on Rahul's shoulder, stopping him. "Wait, Rahul. I have an idea," he whispered, a thoughtful look on his face.

Rahul looked at him skeptically but trusted his friend enough to hear him out. "What do you have in mind, Harry?"

Harry's eyes twinkled with a hint of mischief. "Let's give Shubh a taste of his own medicine. But first, we need to talk to Vi."

Vi was in his room, the hurt still fresh in his mind. He tried to focus on some paperwork, but Shubh's words kept echoing in his head. There was a soft knock on his door. "Come in," he called, expecting another teammate.

Rahul and Harry entered the room, their expressions a mix of concern and frustration. Vi looked up from his paperwork, surprised to see them. "Hey, what's up?" he asked, trying to sound casual despite the lingering hurt.

Rahul was the first to speak, his tone slightly accusing. "Vi, we need to talk."

Vi raised an eyebrow, putting his pen down. "Alright, what's going on?"

Harry crossed his arms, his face serious. "We feel like you don't pay enough attention to us anymore."

Vi blinked, taken aback. "What? Where is this coming from?"

Rahul stepped closer, his voice more insistent. "It's true, Vi. You're always so focused on Shubh and everyone else. We miss spending time with you."

Vi looked at his two jealous kids, a mix of amusement and affection softening his features. He sighed, standing up and walking over to them. "Guys, I didn't realize you felt this way. I'm sorry if I've been neglecting you."

Harry's expression softened slightly, but he held his ground. "It's not just about neglect, Vi. We want you to promise that you'll spend all your time with us tomorrow."