Bound by Love, Separated by Fame

Chapter 6

Chapter 6: Unexpected Encounter

The year 2014 ended triumphantly for the Indian cricket team. After overcoming a rough start, the team emerged victorious in the Australia series, winning three of four test matches and dominating the one-day internationals. Sidharth, the star of the series, scored three centuries and took seven wickets, solidifying his place as a rising cricketing sensation. His exceptional performance brought him immense fan following and fame, with everyone glued to his game.

Fast forward to June 2015, the IPL was in full swing, and both Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kings XI Punjab were playing knock-out matches. However, the excitement of cricket was momentarily replaced by a special occasion-the wedding anniversary of none other than MS Dhoni and his wife, Sakshi, on July 7th. Sikhar Dhawan, ever the enthusiastic team player, suggested hosting the anniversary celebration at his parental house.

"Bhaiyon, meri maa ka kehna hai ki sabko bulana, and what better reason than Mahi bhai's anniversary?" Sikhar announced, beaming with excitement.

Dhoni nodded with his signature calm smile, while the rest of the players cheered, already anticipating a fun-filled evening of food, music, and, of course, Sikhar's legendary pranks.

"Bas yeh toh confirm hai ki tu koi na koi dhamaka karega, Sikhar," teased Suresh Raina.

Sikhar grinned, his eyes twinkling. "Dhamaka toh hoga, lekin sabko surprise dena hai."

The players packed up and made their way to Sikhar's family home, where the Dhawan family had gone all out to host their guests with the finest of Punjabi hospitality.

At Sikhar Dhawan's Family Home

The house was buzzing with laughter, conversation, and the clink of plates as Sikhar's mother ensured everyone had eaten to their heart's content. The cricketers were seated around a long dining table, exchanging stories, while Dhoni and Sakshi enjoyed their special day in the company of their closest friends.

Just when everyone was getting settled, the door swung open, and a voice echoed through the room, loud and full of swagger.

"Satsri akal, sareanu!" a woman called out, her tone filled with playful confidence.

All eyes turned to the entrance, where Shehnaaz Gill stood, dressed in a chic yet laid-back outfit that screamed style. She stepped into the room with the ease of someone who knew how to command attention, dragging none other than Ken Ferns along with her, clearly in the middle of teasing him.

"Ken, tu kab sudhrega? I told you, your designs are perfect, bas thoda aur spark add kar le, like me!" she said with a wink, causing Ken to shake his head in exasperation.

"Oh god, Shehnaaz, can you ever stop roasting me?" Ken sighed dramatically.

"Beta, roast toh tum sab ko karna padega. Tumlog ko apne andaaz mein jeena sikhaungi," she teased, winking at Dhoni, Raina, and the rest of the gang as they watched, half amused, half intrigued.

Raina nudged Dhoni and whispered, "Mahi, yeh ladki toh full package hai. Sid ko mil gayi, toh woh gaya kaam se!"

Dhoni chuckled softly and nodded in agreement. "Aur dekho kaise Sid ki taraf dekhti bhi nahi hai. Poor guy's been looking for her for a year now."

Sidharth sat at the far end of the table, feeling a sudden jolt when he recognized Shehnaaz. The girl who had unknowingly captured his attention months ago had just waltzed into the room, teasing everyone and lighting up the space with her unapologetic personality.

Shehnaaz, however, was completely unaware of the stir she had caused. She had her sights set on Sikhar's parents, greeting them warmly.

"Uncle, aunty! Kitne time baad aapke haath ka khana milega!" Shehnaaz exclaimed as she hugged them both.