UNLIKELY PARTNERS( Smriti & Perry)

Soothing Embrace

Smriti fought to keep her eyes open, desperate not to let Perry see her nightmares. The exhaustion from the morning practice and the evening's dinner preparations was catching up with her, though. Despite her best efforts, sleep overcame her, and she slipped into a restless slumber.

Around three in the morning, Perry was jolted awake by a low, distressing scream. She turned toward Smriti and saw her thrashing, sweat dripping from her forehead. Smriti was murmuring in Hindi, her words unintelligible but her fear palpable. Her distress was evident; her breathing was rapid, and she was clearly caught in the throes of an anxiety nightmare.

Perry's heart ached at the sight. She didn’t know how to help, but her instincts took over. Gently, she took Smriti's hand in hers and began to pat her forehead and scalp soothingly. Whispering softly into her ear, Perry said, "Calm down, Smrits. I'm right here. I'm here with you." She pulled Smriti closer, her arm supporting Smriti's head as her other hand held Smriti's tightly.

The comforting warmth of Perry’s touch seemed to help. Smriti’s breathing gradually slowed, and her body relaxed. Perry continued her soft, calming whispers, the rhythmic sound of the rain outside blending with her soothing words. She stroked Smriti’s hair, holding her close, making sure her presence was a constant source of comfort through the night.

As the first light of dawn broke, Perry woke up before Smriti. She found Smriti sleeping peacefully, her hand still in Perry's. A gentle smile touched Perry's lips as she carefully disentangled herself and went to the bathroom. Afterwards, she moved quietly to the kitchen, determined to make breakfast for everyone.

Smriti woke to the comforting aroma of breakfast and a sense of calm she hadn’t felt in years. Her dreams had been serene, a stark contrast to the nightmares that usually plagued her. Confused but relieved, she made her way to the kitchen, where she found Perry cooking in her clothes.

Smriti’s heart swelled with affection, and she wanted nothing more than to hug Perry tightly. However, she knew she couldn’t do that. Instead, she approached the kitchen, and Perry greeted her with a warm, "Good morning, sunshine."

Smriti smiled, her voice hesitant as she asked, "Pez, what did I do last night? I don’t remember clearly."

Perry closed the gap between them, her voice laced with playful, sexy pauses. "Smrits... you...(takes one more step closer) tried... taking advantage of me." Her teasing tone made them both laugh.

Then Perry grew more serious, holding Smriti’s hands gently. "But on a serious note, it’s all cool Smrits. Everyone has a part, maybe good or bad. I know you don't want to share it now, but I  just want you to know I’m here for you. You can always count on me. I’ll listen to anything and everything you want to tell me. I won't judge you, I just wanna support you and be there for you, help you get out of any discomfort you are feeling, you are such a kind soul Smrits, you don't deserve this, you deserve happiness."
*You deserve me sweetheart, pampering you and making you feel loved* Perry wanted to say but kept her thoughts to herself.

Emotional, Smriti embraced Perry tightly. The warmth and security she felt were overwhelming, and Perry's embrace felt like a safe harbor. They stood there, wrapped in each other’s arms, savoring the moment.

Just then, Sophie and Wareham emerged from their room, their playful teasing immediately filling the air. "Damn, guys, what’s happening? What did we miss last night? You two are getting romantic and all huh"

Both Smriti and Perry pulled away quickly, their faces flushed. Smriti stammered, "Shut up, you guys."

Perry laughed and announced, "I’ve made breakfast. Come on, let’s eat."

As they all gathered around the table, the atmosphere was light and filled with laughter. They discussed strategies for the upcoming game, the camaraderie and shared joy evident in their interactions. The morning was filled with warmth and mutual support, setting the tone for a positive day ahead.