Rohit was wearing Virat's T-shirt.
Which meant it reached his knees, slipped off one shoulder, and kept trying to trip him.
Naturally, Rohit chose danger.
He climbed onto the couch and then decided the handrest was the next logical step.
One tiny foot up.
One hand gripping fabric.
Rohit: "Ro Up."
Virat noticed just in time and shouted "Ro- no no-"
He rushed forward and lifted Rohit off the handrest.
Rohit did not appreciate the interference.
He turned, tiny face serious, and smacked Virat's cheek with an open palm.
Not hard.
But clear.
Rohit: "No!"
Virat blinked.
Mahi, standing nearby with a glass of water, froze.
Did he just-
Virat sighed, rubbing his cheek.
Virat: "Okay, okay. Sorry."
Rohit wriggled down, clearly satisfied.
Five seconds later.
Rohit went back to the couch.
Same plan.
Same handrest.
Virat: "Ro- wait-"
This time, Virat reacted instinctively.
As Rohit climbed, Virat gave him a quick light smack on the back - more reflex than intention.
Virat: "Hey!"
It landed harder than expected.
Not enough to hurt.
But enough.
Rohit froze.
Completely still.
Eyes wide.
Mouth slightly open.
No cry.
Just... processing.
Rohit: "-_-?"
Virat's heart dropped as he said "Ro- I- I didn't-"
Mahi didn't move.
He just watched.
Rohit slowly turned his head and looked at Virat.
Then at his own hand.
Then back at Virat.
The realization dawned.
Oh.
He touched his back cautiously.
Then looked offended.
Rohit: "You... did?"
Virat crouched instantly and said "I'm sorry. I thought- I didn't mean-"
Rohit stared for another second.
Then waddled forward and wrapped his arms around Virat's neck.
Rohit: "No hit."
Virat hugged him tightly.
Virat: "No hit. Promise."
Mahi finally exhaled.
He walked over, lifting Rohit gently.
Mahi: "Lesson learned?"
Rohit rested his head on Mahi's shoulder, thumb hovering near his mouth.
Rohit: "...Ro no hit Vira next."
