The morning sun streamed through the windows of the Dhoni household, casting a warm glow over everything. Mahi woke up early, as usual, his mind already on the day's practice session. He stretched and turned to see Sakshi still asleep, a peaceful expression on her face. Between them lay Cheeku, their newly adopted son, cuddling close to Mahi with his small arms wrapped around his chest.
Mahi smiled down at Cheeku, feeling a wave of affection. He gently tried to wake him up. "Cheeku, buddy, it's time to wake up."
Cheeku groaned and snuggled closer, pretending to still be asleep. Mahi chuckled and glanced at Sakshi, who was now awake and watching them with a smile.
"Looks like someone doesn't want to wake up," Sakshi said, her voice filled with amusement.
Mahi grinned. "I think he's just pretending. Should we tickle him awake?"
Sakshi nodded enthusiastically. "Absolutely."
Together, they started tickling Cheeku, who burst into giggles, unable to keep up the act any longer. "Okay, okay, I'm awake!" he squealed, laughing and squirming.
"Good morning, Mumma, Papa," Cheeku said, still giggling.
"Good morning, Cheeku, How did you sleep?" Mahi asked, ruffling Cheeku's hair.
"Very well, Papa. What are we doing today?" Cheeku asked, sitting up and stretching.
"Well, I have a practice session today, and I was thinking, would you like to come with me?" Mahi asked, watching Cheeku's face light up with excitement.
"Yes! I'd love to come!" Cheeku exclaimed, his sleepiness forgotten.
After a quick breakfast, they got ready to leave. Mahi made sure Cheeku had everything he needed, while Sakshi packed some snacks and water for the trip. They headed out to the car, with Cheeku bouncing with excitement.
As they drove to the practice ground, Mahi glanced at Cheeku in the rearview mirror. "Are you excited to meet the team?"
Cheeku nodded, though he looked a bit nervous. "Yes, but what if they don't like me?"
Mahi reached back to give Cheeku's hand a reassuring squeeze. "Don't worry, Cheeku. They're all very nice people. You'll be fine."
Sakshi turned to Cheeku, smiling. "Just be yourself, sweetheart. They'll love you."
The drive to the practice ground was filled with chatter about cricket and what Cheeku could expect. As they arrived, Cheeku's eyes widened at the sight of the vast field and the players warming up.
While Mahi went to join the team, Sakshi and Cheeku walked around the ground, taking in the sights. Cheeku wandered a bit ahead, his curiosity getting the better of him. He didn't notice Gautam Gambhir, who was practicing nearby.
Gautam spotted Cheeku and called out sternly, "Hey, kid! You're not supposed to be here. This is a restricted area. Get back to where you're allowed to be."
Cheeku froze, his eyes wide with fear. The harsh tone in Gautam's voice terrified him. He turned and ran back to Sakshi, tears streaming down his face. He hugged her tightly, sobbing. "Mumma, I'm scared."
Sakshi held him close, soothing him. "It's okay, Cheeku. I'm here."
Just then, Mahi walked over, concerned by the sight of his crying son. "What happened, Cheeku? Why are you crying?"
Cheeku clung to Mahi, his small body trembling. Mahi picked him up and rubbed his back, trying to calm him down. "Shh, it's okay. Papa's here. Tell me what happened."
