Lost but Not Forgotten

PART 23

The day of the debut match arrived, and the atmosphere was charged with excitement and nervous energy. Sammy couldn't shake the worry from her mind; what if the public noticed Moksh's unique style of playing and connected the dots back to his family? She felt the weight of the world on her shoulders, but Ajinkya remained a steady presence, guiding her through her anxieties.

"Just enjoy the match, Sammy. You're here for Moksh," he reassured her, his calm demeanor helping to ease her nerves.

As they arrived at the ground, the excitement of the day was palpable. Moksh and Akaay were buzzing with energy, their eyes sparkling with anticipation. Vamika had come to support Akaay, her little brother, and as she approached him, she felt a rush of warmth. But it wasn't just Akaay she was excited to see; she felt the same fondness for Moksh. When she hugged him tightly, it reminded her of the comfort she experienced when hugging Rohit Chachu, a warm embrace that made everything feel right in the world.

Moksh melted into the hug, cherishing the feeling of having an elder sister figure to support him. "Thanks, Vami didi! You're the best!" he exclaimed, a bright smile spreading across his face.

As Sammy approached, she couldn't help but notice the bond between them. Her heart swelled with pride as she watched Moksh and Vamika share a moment. She walked over, a bright smile on her face, and wished them both good luck for the match. "You two are going to do amazing things out there," she said, her voice steady and encouraging.

Then she turned her attention to Moksh, kneeling to meet him at eye level. "Remember why you're here, Moksh. Play for yourself, for your passion. And no matter what happens, just have fun. That's what cricket is all about."

Moksh nodded, absorbing her words. "I will, didi! I won't let you down!" His determination radiated through his bright eyes.

"Good," Sammy replied, her heart swelling with pride and a hint of anxiety. "Just focus on your game. I'll be right there cheering you on."

As the match began, the atmosphere in the stadium electrified. Fans cheered and clapped, the excitement building with every passing moment. Sammy took her place in the stands, her heart racing with a mixture of anticipation and worry. She watched Moksh step onto the field, and despite the surrounding crowd, he felt her support in every beat of her heart.

As the game progressed, Moksh and Akaay showcased an incredible partnership that had everyone on the edge of their seats. Their synergy was undeniable; they communicated effortlessly, complementing each other's styles as if they had been playing together for years. Their impressive display of skill and poise on the field drew comparisons to the legendary duo of Rohit and Virat, and the commentators couldn't help but make indirect references to the iconic partnership.

Mahi Bhai, seated in the commentary box, leaned forward, his eyes sparkling with pride as he watched the two young talents flourish. "This reminds me of the old days, doesn't it?" he remarked, glancing at his fellow commentators. "These kids have something special."

Meanwhile, Virat stood in the dugout, his heart racing as he witnessed Moksh and Akaay's performances. Nostalgia washed over him, and memories of his own partnership with Rohit flooded his mind. He remembered the countless matches they had played side by side, the highs and lows, the laughs and the tears. A single tear escaped his eye, betraying the emotions he was trying to contain. It was bittersweet, seeing the new generation rise while feeling the absence of his best friend.

The other players and their kids—Jassi, Harry, and Rahul—gathered nearby, enthusiastically discussing Moksh and Akaay's similarities to Rohit and Virat. "They really play like the Hitman and King!" Jassi exclaimed, eyes wide with admiration.