The next morning, Rohit noticed Virat seemed gloomy and silent as they had breakfast.
Virat was cleaning the dishes when Rohit back-hugged him. "Vi, I know we've had less time together because of everything we've been through. But you know, we have a lifetime of togetherness now. So please don't be sad," he said softly.
Virat turned off the tap and dried his hands.
"A lifetime of togetherness?" he asked, facing Rohit. Rohit took his hand and gently made him sit on his lap on the couch.
"Oh yes, you're stuck with me for life now. There's no way I'm gonna let you go," Rohit said, wrapping his arms around Virat's neck.
Virat smiled at that.
"Finally, you smiled, my love," Rohit said, pecking his cheek.
Virat blushed at the nickname.
"You know, you can't call me that, and we won't be able to be like this in front of everybody," Virat said, thinking about how they would have to act around others.
"Vi, I know. But just know that it will never change this— what we have. This is for life, I promise," Rohit said, cupping Virat's cheeks gently.
"Finally hearing I promise makes me believe it. You made me believe it," Virat said, holding the hands that were gently cupping his cheeks. The warmth of the gesture made Virat feel good.
"You know, Vi, there's something else we can't do," Rohit said, moving closer to him.
"What?" Virat asked, confused.
"You know, open flirting," Rohit teased, distracting him as his hands slid towards Virat's waist, slipping under his shirt.
"Umm..." Virat stuttered, fumbling at the touch of his cold hands.
Rohit knew just how much of an effect he had on Virat. And Virat had the same effect on him—maybe even more, he thought.
Virat moved closer, and Rohit gave a winning smirk as he saw the effect he was having on him. How could Virat resist the challenge?
Virat placed a kiss on his cheek, sliding down to his jaw, and then placed soft kisses on his neck.
His hands moved on Rohit's back, slipping under his shirt, causing Rohit to arch his neck back and moan his name.
"You know... we... will get... late... for the flight," Rohit said with difficulty, his breath hitching as Virat kissed his neck and jaw.
"Hmm, we have 15 minutes," Virat murmured, hugging him tightly and burying his face in his neck. Rohit held him back with equal intensity, not wanting to let go.
Finally, after a good five minutes, they broke the hug.
As Rohit locked the cottage door, Virat gazed at it with so many emotions swirling inside him. This place was going to be special for them.
"Don't worry, we'll come back after the IPL," Rohit said, holding Virat's hand.
Virat nodded, taking in the comforting promise.
The entire flight, Virat held Rohit's hand, his head resting on Rohit's shoulder. They had a private seat booked, one where no one could see them.
Rohit couldn't help but think about how he had left the cottage and gone to Neha, almost losing Virat forever.
"Rohit, Ro," Virat called softly, but Rohit was too lost in his thoughts to pay attention.
Virat cupped Rohit's cheeks, gently turning his face to make him look at him.
