The Cricketer

Chapter 26

Ara's POV:

Two weeks have passed since Vicky left for the cricket tournament, they have been doing well and they won too! But the apartment feels emptier than ever. The silence is louder now, and the weight of everything unresolved hangs over me. I've tried to keep busy, throwing myself into work and routine, but every moment feels like a reminder of what's missing.

I keep glancing at the sticky note Vicky left on the fridge, the one that said he'd be gone for two weeks. It's a small gesture, but it's both a point of comfort and discomfort. It reminds me of his absence and the things we didn't resolve before he left.

The first few days without him were a mix of relief and anxiety. I thought that with some distance, I might be able to sort out my feelings and figure out how to address what happened between us. But instead, the days just seem to drag on, each one blending into the next. I miss his presence, our arguments, and even the way he drives me crazy.

"I'm going to lock him up in his room if I have to, but as soon as he comes home today, I am going to talk!" I think to myself.

Lost in thoughts of him, I receive a text from Shreya saying, "Home SOS." I sigh and quickly grab my keys, heading to her house.

I knock on her door, and she opens it, pulling me into a bone-crushing hug. I look at Tilak and Akshay, who are both smiling widely, their relief evident. I raise an eyebrow at them, and with just a simple nod, I return Shreya's hug with equal pressure. The guys join in, and it turns into a huge group victory hug.

"We did it!" Shreya's voice comes out strained from the hug. "If we don't break this hug, I'm pretty sure my bones will get crushed if they haven't already!" I say, struggling to breathe. Everyone laughs and we finally break the hug.

"I'm so happy for you guys!" I say, following them to the couch. "Did he click the link?"

"He did!" Tilak replies, pride evident in his face and tone. "Told you he would do it!" His head is held high.

I laugh and say, "I never doubted you!" We all laugh together, sharing a moment of relief and joy.

Tilak then gets up and starts pulling me along. "Come on! Let's go party! We got what we wanted! Let's drink till we forget all the stress we've had over these days!"
We make our way to a lively bar downtown, where the music is loud and the atmosphere is buzzing with energy. The group of us—Shreya, Tilak, Akshay, and I—immediately start to unwind. The weight of the past weeks seems to lift, if only for a little while.

"I'm drinking today! So one of you has to stay sober for the driving part!" They look at me, shocked, since I'm always the sober one. "Oh yeah! For the first time in my life, I want to drink till I forget everything! Sooooo let's get started!"

The night is filled with laughter, dancing, and clinking glasses. Tilak keeps the drinks flowing, and we all indulge in the carefree vibe of the celebration. As the drinks loosen us up, our conversations become more animated, and I start to feel a sense of normalcy return.

In the midst of all the excitement, Shreya pulls me aside for a quieter moment. "Hey," she says, her voice a bit softer, "I know things have been tough with Vicky gone. How are you holding up?"

I shrug, trying to hide the sadness that's been lingering despite the party atmosphere. "It's been tough. I miss him, and I wish we could have sorted things out before he left."

Shreya gives me a sympathetic look. "I get it. But you're doing great. Sometimes, a little distraction is exactly what you need. And you've got us."

I nod, grateful for her support. "Thanks, Shreya. I really appreciate it."

We rejoin the group, and the rest of the night continues in high spirits. We dance, laugh, and make the most of the moment. For a few hours, the unresolved issues with Vicky fade into the background.

As the night wears on and the bar starts to empty, I find myself in a quieter corner, reflecting on everything. The joy of the celebration is bittersweet. I'm happy for Shreya and the others, but I can't shake the feeling that something is missing.

Akshay and Shreya both agreed to stay sober, while Tilak and I drink like we've never seen booze before and might never get it again. I'm sure I'll have the worst headache tomorrow, but who cares!

We drop Tilak off at his house first, and then we head to mine. I keep mumbling things and bursting into giggles.

As soon as we reach home, Shreya and Akshay help me inside. I can't even walk properly.

"Why are we home so early? It's only midnight! The night is still youngggg!" I say, noticing Vicky opening the door. "Oh, look who's home?" I say as he stares at me with a raised eyebrow.

Shreya and Akshay exchange awkward looks. "Why did you let her drink so much?" Vicky's voice comes out cold, his arms crossed over his chest, making him look intimidating.

"Why do you care?" I narrow my eyes, trying to stand straight and cross my arms like him.

"I don't!" he retorts, looking at me like he might throw me off the balcony if given the chance.

"Ouch, that hurts!" I fake cry, making Shreya and Akshay shake their heads.

"As much fun as it is seeing you two bond, we have to leave. So now she's your responsibility!" They help me stand properly and start to leave.

"Ohh! You kids! Use protection!" I giggle as Shreya turns to me with wide eyes.

"Ah-huh! You too!" Akshay says, earning a smack from Shreya on his hand. They both disappear into the lift.

"Me, use protection? For what, so he doesn't kill me?" I mutter, my words slurring a bit as I watch them leave.

Hey everyone!!✨❤️
Hope u like the chapter!
Do vote and let me know what u guys think in the comments!✨

THANK YOU SOO MUCH FOR READING MY STORY!!✨❤️