Unknown To Known

Old self (again)

Another challenge arose in Ishan's cricket career, one that would test his  commitment to the sport. His team's management decided to drop him from the playing XI, citing his recent poor form as the reason.

He was devastated by the news, feeling like his world had been turned upside down. He had always been a key player in the team and the thought of not being able to contribute to its success was unbearable.

Aditi tried to be supportive, reminding him of his past achievements and encouraging him to work harder to regain his place in the team. But he couldn't shake off the feeling of disappointment and frustration.

As Ishan struggled to come to terms on the sidelines, he began to question his own abilities and doubt his future in the sport. He felt like he was losing himself, like he was no longer the cricketer he once was.

Aditi saw the pain in his eyes and knew she had to do something to help him. She reminded him of his passion for the game of the joy he felt when he was on the field and of the countless hours he had spent perfecting his skills.

Ishan took her words to heart, using them as motivation to work even harder and prove himself once again. He spent hours in the nets, practicing his skills and perfecting his technique.

And then, just when he thought things couldn't get any tougher, he suffered an injury that ruled him out of the game for several weeks. He was heartbroken, feeling like his career was slipping away from him.

But Aditi was there for him, helping him back to health and reminding him that he was stronger than he thought. She helped him to see that this setback was not an ending moment but an opportunity to learn and grow.

—

Ishan and Aditi stood together on the balcony of MI hotel room, gazing out at the night sky, they couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. Their IPL season was going well, with their team currently in sixth position. However, Rohit and Hardik were no longer the captain with Surya stepping up to lead the team.

As they reflected on their journey, they both had something special to say at the same time.

"Happy anniversary!" they exclaimed at the same time, their voices filled with surprise and delight. They laughed, and Ishan asked. "Tumhe yaad tha?"

Aditi smiled, her eyes sparkling with affection. "Haa, I remembered. Aaj ke din humne..confess kiya tha ek dusre ko and I've been so grateful for that moment ever since."

Their eyes locked, the tension between them was palpable. They both knew that this anniversary marked a special moment in their relationship, a reminder of the love they had promised each other.

Ishan took Aditi's hand, his eyes shining with adoration. "I love you more and more each day." he said, his voice filled with emotion.

Aditi smiled, her heart full of joy. "I love you too," she replied. "You make every day brighter, every moment more meaningful."

They stood there for a while, lost in each other's eyes, the world around them fading away. They knew that their love was something special. And as they celebrated their anniversary, they both knew that their love would continue to grow stronger with each passing day.

In that moment, Ishan's phone buzzed and he received something that brought his old self back. He was selected for the T20 World Cup and his eyes widened with shock and joy. He stood still, frozen in disbelief as he processed the information.

Aditi noticed the change in his expression and asked "Kya ho gaya abb?"

He took a deep breath, his voice shaking with emotion. "Mujhe mil gaya... my contract. I got it back."

The words tumbled out of his mouth like a dam breaking, releasing all the anxiety and doubt that had been holding him back. He felt like he was walking on air, his feet barely touching the ground.

Aditi rushed to his side, her eyes shining with tears of happiness. "Oh, Ishan, I'm so proud of you!" she exclaimed, wrapping her arms around him. He held her tight, feeling like he was home, like he had finally found his place in the world again.

The selection for the T20 World Cup was more than just a contract. It was a validation of his hard work, a reminder that he was still someone to be known in the cricket world. He felt like he had been given a second chance, a chance to prove himself once again.

As they hugged, Ishan felt a sense of gratitude wash over him. He knew that he couldn't have done it without Aditi, without her unwavering support and encouragement. He pulled back, looking into her eyes and said. "Tumhare bina yeh nhi ho paata. You're my rock, my everything."

Aditi smiled, her eyes sparkling with happiness. "Main rahoongi hamesha tumhare sath," she said. "We're in this together, always."

As they stood facing each other, the air thickened with anticipation. Ishan and Aditi gazed into each other's eyes. She felt her pulse quicken and her skin tingled with a strange sense of excitement.

Ishan took a step closer, making Aditi step back a little. Due to slippery floor, she lost her balance and shut her eyes in fear. But he was quick to react and wrap his arms around her waist, to prevent her from stumbling.

Aditi opened her eyes and sighed, looking at Ishan, who stared at her with such intensity and affection. Their faces mere inches apart from each other's, her heart fluttered at the close proximity.

She shyly brought her hands and placed them on his chest, feeling his rapid heartbeat.

"Thank you." she said, looking at him, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Thank you, kya? Tum giro aur main tumhe naa bachau?" Ishan asked, his voice low and husky. "Impossible hain yeh toh!"

His words sent shivers down Aditi's spine. She felt safe in his arms, protected from the world.

"Tumhe girne nhi dunga naa main." Ishan continued, his voice filled with emotions.

Aditi's heart raced. "Aur agar mujhe hi girna huya toh?" she teased, playfully.

Ishan grinned, his pearly whites displaying. "Tab main bhi tumhare saath gir jaunga." he whispered.

With those words, Ishan leaned in, tilting his head slightly. As he neared, his lips brushed against Aditi's in a gentle touch. The contact sent shivers down her spine. She closed her eyes and parted her lips, melting into him.

Their lips moved in perfect sync, the world around them melted and time stood still. Ishan cupped Aditi's face, deepening the kiss and she felt a sense of trust and surrender.

"My home, my love." she thought, her heart overwhelming with emotions.

She felt her hands slightly tremble as she brought them from his chest to his shoulders to completely live the moment. Ishan was unsure of how she would react and now, he couldn't help but sense how Aditi was melting.

Then they pulled apart, gasping for air. Their foreheads still touched and their eyes locked in a loving and tender gaze. This moment brought them closer and they both knew this is just the beginning.