The next couple of days were busy for Virat and Rohit as they both had matches lined up. Rohit had his match first, followed by Virat's the next day. They didn't have time to talk, just exchanging quick texts about each other's schedule and health.
Both of them won their matches.
Virat had just returned to his room after celebrating the win with his team. As soon as he closed the door, he was engulfed in a back hug.
Startled, he turned around to see Rohit smiling so wide it made him smile too. Without thinking, he jumped into Rohit's arms. Rohit, anticipating it, steadied himself and held him tightly.
"Ro," Virat whispered, burying his face in Rohit's neck, breathing in his familiar scent.
Rohit hugged him back just as tightly. "Oh god, I missed this so much," Rohit whispered.
Virat's hugs were magical. The way he held Rohit made all worries disappear in that warmth.
Breaking the hug, Virat looked into Rohit's eyes. "Thanks for the surprise, Ro," he said softly, staring at him.
"Anything for you, love. The team was arriving tomorrow evening, so I thought we'd get some extra time together. Plus, I couldn't miss your priceless reaction," Rohit said, caressing Virat's cheek. Virat grinned happily.
"I'll change and be back in a minute."
"I can help you with that, Vi," Rohit teased with a smirk.
Virat playfully smacked his arm before heading to change while Rohit ordered dinner for both of them.
When Virat returned from the bathroom, he saw the food set up on the table. Rohit was standing near the balcony, gazing at the sky. Virat walked over and softly back-hugged him, resting his head on Rohit's shoulder.
"How did you get the room keys?" Virat asked.
Rohit leaned into the hug. "It wasn't so difficult when you have the Rohit Sharma charm," he quipped, making Virat chuckle.
"Let's have dinner," Rohit said.
"But this is so nice," Virat replied, resting his head against Rohit's back.
Rohit held the hands clasped around his waist. "I know, but we have time for this later. For now, come," he said gently.
As they ate, Virat animatedly narrated a story about how KL had been pranked by Yuzi. "It was so funny, I can't even tell you. Poor Rahul..." he said, laughing.
Rohit couldn't help but smile at Virat's excitement. He loved how Virat shared everything with him. It wasn't just like their friendship anymore; it felt special, intimate, and domestic.
"Rohit, where are you lost? Eat," Virat said, offering him a bite.
After dinner, they moved to the balcony. Rohit sat with his back against the railing, and Virat settled in between his legs, resting against his chest. Their legs were tangled, and Rohit's face was nestled near Virat's shoulder, occasionally brushing his cheek.
"Love?" Rohit called softly after a few minutes of silence.
"Hmm?"
"Are you still upset about what I said on the phone? I mean, does it still bother you? I know you were hurt, but..."
"Why are you looking at me like that?" Rohit asked when Virat turned to stare at him.
"Why are you being formal with me? I don't like it."
"I'm not being formal—"
"Rohit, you're my best friend and now my heart. I've given you the right to care for me, to worry about me—heck, even to yell at me. So please stop apologizing, or I won't talk to you," Virat said firmly.
