Unknown To Known

Only you

As the days passed, Ishan and Aditi's connection grew stronger. They had never experienced such trust, such ease. The team matches became a backdrop for their growing friendship.

Aditi felt an unexpected sense of comfort around Ishan, as if she had found someone who cares and trust her blindly.

Maybe, Ishan mirrored her emotions, though he never admitted it to her or anyone as Aditi confessed to him so many times about much he means to her. Deep down, his heart swelled with admiration and affection for her.

With Aditi staying at the team hotel of MI, opportunities of shared moments multiplied. Stolen glances and laughter filled meals flowed smoothly.

Their connection deepened with each passing day, forging an unspoken understanding. It was as if they had known each other since childhood, not mere years.

One day, the hotel room buzzed with laughter and chatter as MI players gathered for their end-of-season celebration, their wives, friends and staffs in attendance.

The team reflected on their grueling season. "I don't think itna kabhi exhausted feel hua hoga mujhe." Surya joked.

"Batana." Hardik chimed in. "Those last few matches were insane."

Aditi had a conversation with Ritika and Rohit on the other end of the room. "You guys were amazing! Itna acha season tha aur entertainment bhi full hua." Aditi said, smiling.

Mayank clapped Ishan on the back. "Tumne bhi toh kya acha khela." 

The players echoed their appreciation, sharing stories of triumph and struggles. Aditi smiled intently, her eyes shining with admiration.

As the conversation flowed, Ishan's eyes landed on Aditi and he found himself drawn to her smile. He then said, with a gentle voice, turning towards his group. "Team effort, all the way."

Aditi then joined Ishan and Mayank in their conversation, Mayank just interacted with gestures and expressions. Ishan talked to her on random things, listening to her intently and ensuring she is comfortable.

Ishan finished his drink and glanced at the corner. the room didn't had any trash bin. "Ruko, main aaya." he excused himself and stepped outside to discard his empty paper cup. The cool evening air a brief respite from the laughter filled room.

Upon returning, his gaze swept the space where they were having a conversation. He halted at his place and his eyes locked onto Mayank and Aditi, his arm wrapped around her shoulder. As he approached, Aditi's laughter echoed, her eyes sparkling and Ishan couldn't help force his smile.

Mayank spotted him and called him to join them again. Ishan's eyes narrowed as he watched Aditi laugh with Mayank. He edged closer, his presence looming over their conversation. His hand instinctively reached for Aditi's, only to pull back.

"Arey, shaant kyun ho?" Mayank asked simply.

Ishan forced a smile. "Aise hi bass. Baat karne ke liye kuch hain nhi."

He noticed Aditi completely engrossed in Mayank, she ignored him but it wasn't intentional. She was just appreciating Mayank for his impressive performance and Ishan didn't like how close they were standing next to each other.

Ishan walked around the room, feeling left out. Aditi called out him but he just waved at her and went to Hardik.

"Kya hua isse?" She asked, pouting.

"Don't know. Aayega toh puchenge. Tum batao kya keh rahi thi meri bowling ke baare?" Mayank asked, curiosity laced his voice.

On his way to join Hardik and the group, Ishan couldn't help but think. "Kya bol raha tha wo bkl? Even if we talk, it's just friendship. Itna chipk ke baat kar raha hai abb usse."