_Abhishek's POV_
The Indian team's victory against South Africa boosted our morale. As we celebrated in the dressing room, my mind drifted to Pat Cummins.
Why did his words – "I want to prove myself, to show that I'm more than just a fast bowler" – resonate so deeply?
I pushed aside the distraction, focusing on our next match.
_Pat's POV_
Australia's loss to England stung. As I analyzed our performance, Abhishek's smiling face flashed in my mind.
What was it about him that drew me in?
I shook my head, refocusing on the game.
Days passed, and our teams' paths crossed again at the ICC World Cup's official dinner.
_Abhishek's POV_
As I entered the grand ballroom, Pat's towering figure caught my eye. We exchanged nods, and I joined him at the Australian table.
Conversation flowed easily – cricket strategies, personal anecdotes, and laughter.
Pat's teammate, Steve Smith, raised an eyebrow. "Pat, you're usually more reserved. What's gotten into you?"
Pat's cheeks flushed, and he glanced at me. "Just enjoying the company, mate."
My heart skipped a beat.
_Pat's POV_
Abhishek's presence beside me felt natural. Our shoulders touched, sending shivers down my spine.
As the evening wore on, we discovered shared interests – old movies, music, and books.
Abhishek's eyes sparkled when discussing his favorite Bollywood films. I found myself captivated.
The dinner concluded, and teams began to disperse.
"Walk with me," Abhishek said, his voice low.
We strolled through the emptying ballroom, side by side.
_Abhishek's POV_
The silence between us was comfortable. Pat's proximity made my skin tingle.
Suddenly, he broke the silence. "Abhishek, can I ask you something?"
"Anything," I replied.
"Do you believe in fate?"
I hesitated. "I think life has its ways of surprising us."
Pat's gaze locked onto mine. "I've been thinking... maybe our rivalry's more than just cricket."
My pulse quickened.
_Pat's POV_
Abhishek's eyes searched mine, seeking answers. I sensed a connection, a spark waiting to ignite.
"Fate brought us together on the pitch," I continued. "But what if it's more?"
Abhishek's voice barely above a whisper: "What are you saying, Pat?"
I took a deep breath. "I'm saying... I feel something. Something beyond cricket."
Abhishek's face inches from mine, our lips almost touching.
"Pat," he whispered.
_End of Chapter 3_
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Bound by the pitch
Fanfiction*Setting:* ICC Cricket World cup Abhishek Sharma, India's talented all-rounder, and Pat Cummins, Australia's formidable fast bowler, have been rivals on the field for years. Their intense competition masks a deep attraction, hidden even from themsel...
