Is This Love? [Shubman Gill x Ishan Kishan]

Chapter Twelve

tw:  non-consensual drug use & sexual assault

The final ball of the match is bowled and Ishan thanks God as the stadium erupted into cheers and applause. The Mumbai Indians have won the IPL 2024 title and the euphoria is palpable. Confetti rains down from above, shimmering in the stadium lights, and the night sky is illuminated by fireworks.

He stands there in the middle of the field, feeling the weight of the victory slowly sinking in. His uniform is drenched in sweat, and adrenaline coursing through his veins. He looks at his teammates, who are jumping and hugging each other.

As he soaks in the atmosphere, Hardik approaches him, grinning from ear to ear. He pulls Ishan into a tight hug, "You played great tonight!"

"Thanks, bhaiya," Ishan replies before pulling away, "Come on, let's go enjoy with the team."

Hardik's energy is infectious and impossible to resist as he begins shouting at the team, "Come on! Let's get in for a photo!"

One by one the entire Mumbai Indians squad gatherers around the trophy, their faces glowing with happiness. The photographers click away, capturing the moment perfectly. And as Ishan stands by his team, he finally feels like he's at home.

Eventually, he's ushered off to receive his "Player of the Tournament" medal. As he walks towards the podium, the crowd's cheers grow even louder, echoing throughout the stadium. He climbs the steps to the stage, feeling the weight of the moment.

"This is for you," The presenter says, shaking Ishan's hand. "You've earned it.:

Ishan nods, "Thank you," He manages out, trying his best to keep his voice steady. He lifts the medal high, and the crowd erupts in applause once more. Cameras flash, capturing his triumphant smiles and the glint of the medal in the bright lights.

He shakes the presenter's hand again before walking down and greeting the interviewer, "Hello."

"Hello, Ishan, thank you so much for speaking with us tonight," The interviewer greets. "How are you feeling today after an amazing win for the Mumbai Indians?"

"Well, I feel great," Ishan admits honestly. "And I have to give props to Hardik bhai for being an amazing captain and leading us to victory."

The interviewer nods, smiling, "Hardik Pandya has certainly been an exceptional leader. Tell us, what was going through your mind during those last crucial overs?"

Ishan takes a moment to collect his thoughts, "Honestly, I was just focused on making sure I was focused on the ball. Taking it one delivery at a time, trusting my instincts and the training we've put in. The support from the team was incredible, and we all believed we could pull it off."

The interviewer presses on, "Your performance throughout the tournament has been stellar. What do you think contributed most to your success?"

Ishan glances at his teammates celebrating in the background and smiles. "It's all about teamwork and preparation. We've been working hard all season, and the camaraderie in the squad is amazing. Personally, I've been focusing on staying disciplined and consistent, and it's paid off. But really, it's the whole team's effort that's brought us here."

The interviewer's next question comes quickly. "You've been named Player of the Tournament. How does it feel to receive such an honor?"

"It's overwhelming," Ishan says, his voice filled with genuine emotion. "I'm truly grateful for this recognition, but again, it's not just about me. It's about the support from my teammates, coaches, and everyone who's been behind us. I couldn't have done this without them."