_Abhishek's POV_Pat's words hung in the air, heavy with emotion. Our lips almost touched, the tension between us palpable.
"Pat," I whispered, my heart racing.
Suddenly, the ballroom's lights flickered, breaking the spell. We stepped back, our faces inches apart.
"I'm sorry," Pat muttered, his eyes still locked on mine. "I didn't mean to—"
"No need to apologize," I interrupted, my voice barely above a whisper. "I feel it too."
Pat's gaze searched mine, seeking confirmation.
"Let's get out of here," he suggested, his voice low.
We slipped away from the dinner, into the cool night air.
_Pat's POV_
As we walked through the deserted streets, Abhishek's hand brushed against mine. Electric sparks ran through my body.
We found ourselves at the riverbank, the city skyline reflected in the calm waters.
Abhishek turned to me, his eyes shining. "Pat, I've wanted to ask you something."
"Anything," I replied, my heart pounding.
"Why do you care about me?" he asked, his voice laced with vulnerability.
I took a deep breath. "Because you see me, Abhishek. Beyond the cricket pitch, beyond the rivalry. You see the real me."
Abhishek's face softened. "I see a kind, talented, and driven person. Someone who deserves happiness."
My throat constricted. No one had ever spoken to me like that.
"Abhishek," I whispered, my voice trembling.
He stepped closer, our lips inches apart.
_Abhishek's POV_
Pat's eyes burned with emotion. Our lips touched, and the world around us melted away.
The kiss was gentle, exploratory. We savored each other, our hearts beating as one.
As we broke apart, gasping for air, Pat's smile lit up the night.
"Wow," he whispered.
I grinned. "Definitely worth the wait."
_Pat's POV_
We strolled along the riverbank, hand in hand, our connection growing stronger.
Abhishek's laughter echoed through the night, contagious and joyful.
For the first time in years, I felt free.
_Abhishek's POV_
As the night wore on, our conversation turned to our families, our cultures, and our dreams.
Pat's eyes sparkled when discussing his love for photography.
I shared stories of my childhood, of playing cricket in the streets of Delhi.
Our differences faded, replaced by a deepening understanding.
_Pat's POV_
Abhishek's words painted vivid pictures in my mind. I saw him as a child, laughing and carefree.
As the first light of dawn crept over the horizon, we reluctantly parted ways.
"I'll see you at the next match," Abhishek whispered, his lips brushing against mine.
"I'll be counting the hours," I replied.
_End of Chapter 4_
Would you like me to:
1. Proceed with Chapter 5: "Facing the Consequences"
Let me know!
And please do vote 🙂
YOU ARE READING
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...