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Two days after their unforgettable night together, Shubman found himself standing outside Ira's apartment door, dressed to impress.
He had traded his usual casual look for a sharp, black button-down and dark jeans, his hair neatly styled, and a hint of cologne that he hoped she'd love. This was it—their official date night.
He checked his watch and took a deep breath. Somehow, he felt more nervous waiting for her now than he ever had facing a stadium full of fans.
Just as he was starting to wonder if he should text her, the door swung open, and there she was.
Ira stood in the doorway, and for a moment, he couldn't speak. She wore a deep burgundy dress, fitted at the waist, with a slit up the side and her signature curls framing her face. She looked like a dream, the kind that he never wanted to wake up from.
"Wow," he breathed, his voice catching. "You look... just... holy shit, Ira."
She chuckled, a blush spreading across her cheeks. "Right back at you, Mr. Cricket Star." She took a step forward, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "So, where are we going?"
"Ah, that's a surprise," he said, offering her his arm. "But trust me, it'll be worth it."
She took his arm, and they made their way down to the street where he'd arranged for a car to pick them up. As they settled into the backseat, he reached for her hand, intertwining their fingers. It felt so natural, so easy, yet he couldn't shake the thrill of it all.
"I'm serious, Shubman," she teased. "If this is some weird cricket club dinner, I'm out."
He laughed, squeezing her hand. "Don't worry, I'm not dragging you to a team banquet. I wanted tonight to be about us. Somewhere we can relax, talk, just enjoy each other's company without any interruptions."
The car pulled up to a rooftop restaurant with a stunning view of the city skyline. Soft music drifted through the air, and string lights cast a warm glow over the open terrace. Shubman had reserved a private table, set with candles and flowers.
"Oh my God, Shubman, this is... incredible," she whispered, her eyes wide with amazement as she took in the setting.
He grinned, clearly pleased with her reaction. "Only the best for you, my rockstar."
They were seated, and as the waiter poured them each a glass of wine, Ira reached across the table, brushing her fingers over his hand. "I have to say, I'm impressed. You're pulling out all the stops tonight."
