💖Bound by Runs and Dreams💖

Chapter 9: Exploring London ✨💖

The camp had been intense so far, both physically and emotionally. Ruturaj had grown used to seeing Utkarsha every day, both in training and during the breaks, but the unsaid tension between them had only grown. Their bond had deepened with every shared glance, every conversation, and every moment of silence that hung between them like an unspoken promise. Both knew something was shifting, something that neither of them had yet to fully understand.

It had been a week since they arrived in London, and the camp had given them little time for anything but cricket. But today was different. The coach had announced a full day of rest-a much-needed break for everyone. The moment the announcement was made, Ruturaj felt a sudden excitement rise within him.

POV: Ruturaj

Aaj ka din kuch special hone wala hai, I thought to myself. I had noticed how Utkarsha had been so focused on her training, almost shutting the world out. But now, I had a plan to change that, at least for a day.

As I sat with Rahul during breakfast, a few girls from the camp came over, smiling widely at me. I recognized them-some from the women's cricket team, others were staff members. They giggled and exchanged glances, clearly excited about something."

So, Rutu," one of the girls started, her tone playful, "We were thinking, since it's a free day today... why don't you explore London with us? Hum sab milke jaayenge, it will be fun!"

Another girl chimed in, "Haan, I know some amazing cafes, we can go shopping too! London's so beautiful, you'll love it."

I gave them a polite smile, but my mind was somewhere else. Explore London with them? Nah. I had other plans, and they involved just one person-Utkarsha.

"Thanks, but I think I'll pass," I said, trying to keep my tone light but firm.

The girls exchanged surprised looks, clearly not expecting me to turn them down. "Oh, okay," one of them said, trying to hide her disappointment, "Maybe next time."

As they walked away, I turned to Rahul, who had been watching the exchange with an amused smile. "Bhai, tujhe kitni ladkiyan line maar rahi hain," he teased, laughing softly.

I shrugged, not really bothered by their attention. "It's not like that, Rahul. I have someone else in mind for today."

Rahul raised an eyebrow, curious. "Kya plan hai? Who's the lucky one?"

I gave him a knowing smile. "You'll see."

POV: Utkarsha

Meanwhile, Utkarsha had a different plan for the day. Aaj ka din sirf mere liye hoga, she thought as she stretched on her bed, savoring the thought of doing absolutely nothing. The camp had been exhausting, and all she wanted was a quiet day, away from all the noise and chaos. No cricket, no people-just peace and quiet.

As she leaned back, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Ruturaj.

Ruturaj: "Hey, Utkarsha. What's your plan for today? Let's explore London together."

Utkarsha smiled to herself but shook her head. Of course, Ruturaj has other plans. She typed a quick response.

Utkarsha: "No plans. Just chilling. Need a break from all the running around."

Ruturaj: "Chilling is overrated. Come on, London won't explore itself!"

Utkarsha chuckled softly but remained firm. Mujhe relax karna hai aaj, not roam around the city.

Utkarsha: "Rutu, tum jao. I'm good here."

But Ruturaj wasn't going to give up that easily. He needed to convince her, and he knew just the way to do it.
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