From Stethoscope to Stadium

Chapter-9

"I--Virat, I really..." AB started, his voice breaking. It was overwhelming, pushing his emotions to an edge. He loved Virat, yes. But getting to know of his past mistakes and trauma, it was disturbing. He would help him, obviously, but he needed time. The time to get himself under control. 

Virat let out a chuckled sigh, "That's ok, AB." He said, taking AB's hand in his. "I understand." He whispered. 

"Give me some time." AB said, steadying his stammering tone. "I--" He couldn't continue and so he just let it be.

The sat together in the prolonged tensed silence. Both of theirs heart and mind refusing to sync as they handled their emotions through the silence. AB loved Virat, he would say that to the whole world, but at this moment everything felt unfair to him. He felt lost. 

But, he trusted Virat. He believed in every single word Virat said to him. From his past to his confession, he was ready to accept all his flaws and scars. He just didn't know where or how to start. 

"AB.." Virat called out, rushing AB out of his thoughts. "How about we go out for a walk? I feel heavy." He asked, fighting the growing tension and hesitance within him. 

AB thought for a second, but then slowly nodded. He got up to help Virat get off his bed. "Here...slowly" AB instructed. 

Virat looked at him with genuine affection in his eyes, he was so sure that his heart beats only for this person. He had laid awake for the past few days, listening to his heart speak of how much he loves, cares for and respects the one in front of him. 

"I really don't think I deserve you at all, AB." Virat said, his eyes fixed upon AB, yet the light that was there a few minutes back was no longer there, it was sad, questioning and heart breaking.

"Shut it" AB muttered, throwing his arm around Virat's shoulder.

Virat smiled, sadly. "No--"

"Um duty calls I guess..." AB raised his eyebrows, his demeanor switching suddenly as he quickly made Virat sit down on the bed before picking up his buzzing phone. 

"Yes?" AB said, listening intently. "Oh...Is no one else available?....Umm....alright. I'll do it....when should I leave?....Alright. You can fix the dates. Thank you." 

AB sighed as he cut the call, turning around to face a anticipating Virat. "Virat, I got to leave." He said, his eyes turning soft and his lips into a small sad smile, "Now." He said, his heart heavy as he saw Virat's face fall. 

"Ok..." Virat spoke up, controlling his eyes from tearing up, "I'll see you later." He said, hoping to meet his doctor after a few hours.

"Umm Virat, we might not get to see each other for a while." AB spoke, his tone steady as he stepped a little closer to Virat, "Please take care. If you face any problems please contact the hospital quickly. And I'll arrange a nurse here to take care of you while I'm gone."

Virat nodded slowly, taking in AB's words, "Wh-where are you going?" He asked, hesitantly.

AB pulled him in for a short, warm, Virat's heart-stopping embrace, "New York." he whispered, his hands warm and safe on Virat's back holding him close.

Virat's eyes widened as he heard it from AB, "Wh-why?" He questioned, looking up at him with small tears at the corner of his eyes.

"Work, Virat." AB said, pulling away from him, their eyes connected, "Got to go. Flight's tonight. Goodbye, Virat. Take care. Please." His voice almost pleading as he slowly pulled back and walked over to the door.