"Alright, chips, chocolate, samosas...what else do we need? Ritz, any requests?" Virat asked as he zipped the bag glancing over at Vritika, who was practically bouncing around, barely able to keep her excitement contained. She squealed softly, grinning like she'd won the lottery.

He raised an eyebrow. All this was suspicious. Very suspicious. His sister had requested to take a BREAK from STUDIES to attend a CRICKET MATCH and was more excited about this match than he was. Kuch toh gadbad hai.

"Alright, Ritz," he drawled, leaning against the counter. "Spill it."

Vritika blinked innocently. "Spill what?"

"Oh, don't play dumb with me," he smirked, crossing his arms. "You're acting way too excited for a regular cricket match. More excited than I am, which is saying something."

She tried to hide her smile, busying herself with double-checking the tickets on her phone. "I just...really like watching cricket, that's all."

He snorted. "Yeah, right. Since when do you squeal over cricket?"

"I am not squealing over cricket! I am just excited because I am taking a break and then there will be a day of exam and then I will be done!" she shot back, attempting to sound casual.

"Uh-huh. So, you're just thrilled about the break and the exam."

"Yes!" she insisted, though her cheeks had started to turn pink. "I mean... yeah, it's exciting."

"Riiight," he said slowly, clearly not convinced. "Look, I'm not saying I don't believe you..." He paused. "But I totally don't believe you."

Vritika huffed, holding onto her phone a bit too tightly. "Fine, maybe I have... a tiny surprise planned. But you're not getting any details out of me!"

"A surprise, huh?" he repeated, raising his eyebrows in exaggerated interest. "Now we're getting somewhere. So, who's the surprise for?"

She just shrugged, trying to look casual. "You'll see."

As they entered the bustling stadium, Vritika's eyes darted toward the players' stand, scanning the crowd eagerly. She stood on tiptoe, trying to get a better view, when Virat nudged her, raising an eyebrow.

"Alright, who are you looking for?" he asked, crossing his arms and giving her a suspicious look.

She quickly looked away, trying to play it cool. "No one. Just, you know... admiring the whole stadium and everything."

Virat chuckled, clearly unconvinced. "Yeah, because most people come to cricket matches to 'admire the architecture.' Come on, Ritz, I saw you looking right over there at the players' box. Spill it!"

She glanced at him, realizing there was no way he'd drop it now. "Fine. I might... know someone playing in the match," she admitted, a small smile creeping onto her face.

Virat's eyebrows shot up. "Wait... don't tell me....you have got a crush on some player here! Oh now I understand. Maybe I know him? I am also an international player now you know....maybe I can introduce you..."

Vritika rolled her eyes, trying to hide a smirk. "Oh, please. I don't need an introduction; I already know him. He's my friend, Rohit."

For a moment, Virat was silent, then he burst out laughing. "Rohit Sharma? You're telling me Rohit is the guy you've been hiding? He is selected for this match? You must be joking!"

Vritika shot him a glare. "I'm not joking! He's worked really hard to get here, and I'm proud of him."

Virat grumbled something under his breath." You wait here with dad okay. I will just go and meet the coach for a bit."

 Virat walked toward the players' rooms, still grumbling under his breath, he couldn't shake off a twinge of jealousy. What was so special about Rohit Sharma? he thought. After all, he himself was a Ranji player and now an international one. He'd earned his place, and part of him felt he deserved this spot too.

Just then, he spotted MS Dhoni and Ravi Shastri deep in conversation near the players' area. 

"...this young player, Rohit Sharma," Shastri was saying, "He's got talent—real, raw talent. And he reads the game like a seasoned pro, not just someone starting out."

Dhoni nodded. "Exactly. He's got the focus and the technique. But it's his instincts under pressure that stand out. Not every young player has that ability."

Virat's jaw clenched as he listened, the pang of jealousy growing. Focus, technique, instincts under pressure... he had all those things, didn't he?

Just as he was debating whether to interrupt or not, the match started. The loud cheer of the crowd snapped Virat back to reality. He turned toward the field, watching the teams take their positions, and made his way back to the stands and acquired his seat beside his sister's.

It was India vs Australia.

India was off to a strong start, and the crowd's enthusiasm was infectious.

He glanced at Vritika, who was completely absorbed, eyes tracking every movement on the field. She clutched her scarf, muttering encouragement under her breath every time Rohit took his position.

"Look at you," he teased, nudging her shoulder. "You look more stressed than the players out there."

 "I'm just... invested, okay? It's not every day I get to see my friend in such a huge match!"

Virat leaned back, crossing his arms. "Your friend, huh? Just a friend?"

Vritika's cheeks flushed, and she quickly turned her attention back to the field. "Yes, just a friend. Now shush and watch," she replied.

"You are never this excited for my match huh?"

"Yeah not this excited but even more than this. You just never know because you would be on the field."

Just then Virat watched as Rohit took a particularly skillful shot, and the stadium erupted in applause. He made it look so easy but Virat knew how difficult that pull shot was. And then it was raining fours and sixes from his bat. This guy was on fire!

Virat leaned forward, eyes glued to the field. "What the hell!" he muttered, shaking his head in disbelief as Rohit sent another six sailing into the stands.

Vritika grinned, clearly enjoying her brother's reaction. "Right?" 

Rohit seemed to be in a zone, effortlessly finding gaps in the field and sending the ball soaring. 

"Do you think he can make a century?" Vritika asked, her eyes glued to the field

"If he keeps this up, absolutely," Virat replied, trying to play it cool, though was more than impressed!Shit. Who was he kidding...he was starting to feel insecure watching Rohit play.. He shifted uncomfortably in his seat. He looked at his sister from the corner of his eyes. "She didn't tell me he was this good," he muttered under his breath, wondering if he should swallow his pride. Maybe if he asked nicely she would introduce him.

He cleared his throat. "Hey Ritz, I admit he is not bad. I guess it wouldn't be too bad to meet him."

In the ground Rohit prepared to unleash another powerful shot, a sudden lapse in concentration struck. He misjudged a delivery and swung too early, and the ball clipped the edge of his bat, soaring to the slip cordon. The cheers turned to gasps as he watched the fielder take a sharp catch.

"No, no, no!" he thought, his heart sinking. Disappointment washed over him like a cold wave. He had been on the brink of a century, and now, all he felt was regret and frustration. His head hung low and he couldn't shake the feeling that he had let himself down, that he had let the team down.

Entering the dugout, the reality of his dismissal settled in. He clenched his fists, replaying the moment in his mind.

Just then, he felt a gentle hand on his shoulder. He turned.

"Wh..aat?" he stammered, surprised to see Vritika standing there, her bright smile cutting through his haze of disappointment. "Ritz...you?"

"Surprise!" He felt her arms wrap around him. "You were absolutely amazing Ro!"

"You...here....How?" he asked, pulling back to look at her face.

"I couldn't miss your game. Especially not when my friend is out there smashing it on the field!"

"And your exam ?"

"I will handle it tomorrow."

"I wish I could've made it a memorable inning instead of... you know, getting out like that."

"Don't be too hard on yourself! You were on fire out there! Everyone was cheering for you! That six you hit? Epic!"

"Yeah, until I threw it away," he said, rubbing the back of his neck, trying to shake off the lingering frustration.

"Hey you were great! I mean how many players hit 78 runs in there first international match huh?"

Rohit managed a small smile, appreciating her effort to cheer him up. Her eyes were sparkling and in the afternoon heat, they looked so beautiful.....Somebody cleared his throat.

"Oh yes, Ro..meet my brother Veer..I mean Virat."

Rohit turned to see a tall guy with an easy grin, arms crossed casually over his chest. "Nice to meet you, man," he said, extending a hand. "I've heard a lot about you. Congratulations on getting in the team."

"Thanks! It's great to finally meet you too," Virat replied, shaking Rohit's hand firmly. The casual and cool way of Rohit made him feel a little more at ease. "Vri talks about you all the time."

"Oh, really?"  Rohit raised an eyebrow, a teasing smirk playing on his lips. "I hope it's all good things."

"You wish" Vritika smirked back. "Now, let's celebrate! Food is on me!"

"You wait here, I will go bring the snacks." Virat said.

"Don't forget the vadapavs."

"Of course! Vadapavs coming right up," Virat replied, turning to head towards the food stall.

Rohit chuckled, watching Virat walk away. "He seems like a good guy," he remarked, glancing at Vritika, who was still beaming with excitement.

"He really is. He's been my support system for as long as I can remember," Vritika said, her tone turning fond. "You'll love having him around. I hope you two get to get to play together soon."

"So, you nervous about tomorrow?" Rohit asked.

" A little yes. I am getting butterflies just thinking about it." Vritika admitted, biting her lip.

"Its normal!Don't worry, you will rock the exam. I am free tomorrow evening. How about we hangout?"

"That's really sweet of you! I'd love that," Vritika replied, her smile widening. "It'll be a great way to unwind after the exam."

"Perfect! We can grab some food and maybe catch a movie or something," Rohit suggested, trying to sound casual while secretly excited about spending more time with her.

"Cool! Just what I need after all this studying," Vritika said, feeling her nerves ease at the thought of hanging out with Rohit.

Virat brought the snacks and they ate it all.

"Arey Ro, have some more," Vritika urged, pushing the plate closer to him.

"Arey nahi yaar, coach ne dekha toh chodenge nahi."

"Arey koi nahi dekhega." Virat said looking around.

"Trust me, if he sees me eating this, I'll be running laps until the sun goes down. No thanks!"

"Arey bas ek." Virat insisted, playfully nudging Rohit with the plate.

Just then, a voice from the back interrupted, "Kya ho raha hai yaha?"

Rohit and Virat turned to see their Mahi bahi approaching, an eyebrow raised in curiosity.

"Arey, nothing much, Mahi bhai. My sister Vritika here is forcing us to eat vadapav..." Virat tried to find an excuse, his voice trailing off as he gestured vaguely toward Vritika whi widened her eyes in horror. Veer ke bacche!

"You brought this ?" Dhoni asks Vritika.

Vritika hesitated for a moment, her cheeks flushing slightly. "No...yes, Mr. Dhoni,"

"Don't call me Mr. Dhoni. Makes me fell old. Do I look old?" he asked, raising an eyebrow

"Umm no...sir." Vritika stammered

"Now it's 'sir'? Come on, that's even worse! Just call me Mahi bhai, okay?" Dhoni laughed, shaking his head.

Vritika gave a sheepish smile. "Okay, Mahi... bhai."

"Good." He nodded approvingly, then glanced at the vadapavs. "You two, you don't want to eat this?" he asked Rohit and Virat, glancing at the plate of vadapavs

Rohit and Virat exchanged glances and shook their heads vigorously. "No, no, not at all!"

 "Well, can't let these go to waste, then," he said, picking up a vadapav and taking a big bite.

Vritika suppressed a laugh, watching as her brother and Rohit stood there, caught off-guard.

"Not bad," Mahi remarked between bites, casting them a knowing smile. "You boys missed out. "Good choice, Vritika."

 "Thanks, Mahi...bhai." 

"You boys better be ready for practice tomorrow!" with that, he gave them a nod, and strolled away, leaving them both standing there.

*******

Soon they reached home and Vritika started revising all the major concepts. Soon she was done and was passing by Virat's room when she noticed him grinning down at his phone, fully engrossed. Curious, she leaned in just enough to catch a glimpse of a girl's profile on the screen. Before he realized, she darted forward and snatched the phone right out of his hands.

"Arey, Vri! Give it back!" he protested, reaching for the phone, but she held it out of reach, scanning the profile picture with a smirk.

"So... how's it?" he asked, attempting to sound nonchalant but clearly eager for her opinion.

Vritika raised an eyebrow, stifling a laugh. "Shakal dekhi hai apni?" she teased, handing the phone back with a playful roll of her eyes. 

"Chal, dekh lena! Kaise patata hu... in no time."

"Hmm on a second thought...jodi toh dekhne layak hogi tum dono ki..."

"Haina,haina? Main bhi yahi soch raha..."

"Tu gorilla jaisi shakal wala...woh machis ki tili jaisi...."

"Arey! Main itna bhi bura nahi dikhta!"

 "Arre, haan haan, exactly. Tum dono ekdum complementary ho —... bilkul made-for-each-other types!"

"Shutup!" Virat exclaimed as he threw a pillow at her which she dodged by quickly closing the door and getting out.

The next morning, Vritika woke up with a mix of excitement and nerves fluttering in her stomach. She stretched, shaking off the sleep, and immediately went over to her study table. Grabbing her formula sheet, she quickly went through each equation.

Just then, her phone buzzed on the table. She picked it up, seeing a message from Rohit.

"You've got this, Ritz! Just remember—focus, stay calm, and trust yourself. Can't wait to hear how it went. All the best!"

A warm smile crept onto her face as she read his words. His encouragement felt like a little boost of confidence she didn't know she needed. Thanks, Ro, she thought, mentally sending him a grateful reply.

After a quick breakfast, she grabbed her bag, double-checking her exam essentials before heading out. The cool morning air helped clear her head as she made her way to the exam center. The building loomed ahead, packed with other students waiting to enter, each carrying their own hopes, anxieties, and hours of hard work.

With a deep breath, she took her seat and tackled the paper with calm precision. When the final bell rang, she knew she'd done her best and felt a quiet confidence as she walked out.

"How did it go, beta?" her mom asked, scanning her face for signs of relief or worry as soon she stepped through the door.

Vritika smiled, "It went well, I think! I felt prepared for most of the questions."

Her dad nodded, looking pleased. "That's wonderful, beta. You've worked so hard."

After the flood of questions and hugs, Vritika cleared her throat. "I was thinking of going out for a movie later... with a friend," she added, testing the waters.

"Oh, that's nice!" her mom replied, raising an eyebrow in curiosity. "Which friend?"

Vritika shrugged, keeping it casual. "Just... a friend from hostel," she said "Hey, Veer! I'm going to watch a movie. Want to join us?" She asked quickly changing the subject as she found Virat scrolling through his phone in the living room. 

Virat glanced up with a smirk, "Kabab main haddi kaun banega?"

"Just answer yes or no. Are you coming or not?"

"Nope. I' ve got a date." He whispered.

Vritika's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "A date? Since when?" she asked, trying to hide her curiosity.

Virat gave a sly grin, looking rather pleased with himself. "Since now. Unlike some people, I don't need years of buildup," he teased.

"Fine, keep your secrets. But don't expect me to spill anything later!"

"Oh, I'll get it out of you eventually," he said, leaning back with a chuckle. "Have fun with...your friend."

 Vritika quickly got ready and reached the theater entrance where she spotted Rohit waiting by the ticket counter, hands in his pockets and a relaxed smile on his face. He waved as she approached, and they exchanged a quick, friendly hug.

"Hey! Got the tickets?" she asked, glancing toward the theater doors.

"Yeah, yeah," he replied, but there was a slight hesitation in his voice, and he scratched the back of his head. "But, yaar... I was thinking... maybe we could do something else instead of a movie?"

"Oh?" Vritika raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Like what?"

Rohit's face brightened as he grinned, looking almost shy for a moment. "Like... maybe head to the beach? Watch the sunset or something?"

It sounded like a date. She didn't mind though. She tried to suppress the blush creeping down her neck when she remembered something and laughed. 

"Yeh Delhi hai Mr Sharma, aapki Mumbai nahi."

"Arey haaaan....main who bhul hi gaya that."

"Yaar I really wanted to go there sometime though. You know how we could nevergo there due to my hostel restrictions."

 "No worries , next time I'll take you to see a proper Mumbai sunset," he promised.

She felt her heart skip a beat but quickly masked it with a smirk. "I'll hold you to that, Mr. Sharma. Well, for now, I guess we'll have to settle for popcorn and a crowded theater."

They went inside clicked some selfies together.

If anyone had seen them, they'd have definitely thought it was a date—who wouldn't? Because halfway through the movie, Vritika fell asleep on Rohit's shoulder. She was comfortably dozing off while he sat as still as a statue, clearly trying not to disturb her. He even inched towards her so that she could be more comfortable. The movie suddenly wasn't so boring anymore. The dim theater and her soft breaths made everything feel... oddly perfect.

Who would've said otherwise, seeing them like this? Certainly not the couple sitting a row behind, who exchanged knowing looks and whispered with grins, "They're definitely together."

A girl passed through there alley trying to find her seat after the interval and whispered,"You guys are so cute!"

And honestly, as Rohit didn't care to correct her either. Why would he? He wanted it to be true. I mean why wouldn't he love her. She was smart, beautiful and so kind.. way out of his league..While he was...well just him. He did not have six pack abs or perfect chiseled face nor was he the smartest in the room.

As the credits rolled, Rohit gently nudged Vritika awake. "Hey, Ritz. Movie's over," he said softly, a smile playing on his lips.

Vritika stirred, blinking a few times before realizing where she was. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she sat up straight, brushing her hair back. "Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry! I can't believe I slept through it!"

Rohit found her reaction cute, but quickly added, "No worries at all! I, uh, I must have dozed off too until someone woke me." He lied hoping to ease her embarrassment.

"Really?" she asked.

"Yeah! You know how it is; the movie was a bit long," he fibbed, trying to make her feel better about missing part of it. "So, no harm done."

"Okay. Shall we stop somewhere to eat then? There's this amazing place nearby."

"Sure, would love to."

Just as they exited the theater, Vritika's phone buzzed with an incoming call.

"Hey, Veer! What's up?" she answered, only to hear her brother's slightly sheepish voice on the other end.

"Hey, Vri. Could you do me a favor and take Magic for a walk today? I'm totally tied up and can't get away this evening..."

Vritika didn't need to be asked twice. "Of course! I'd love to. Magic will probably think you abandoned him by now anyway," she teased.

After hanging up, she turned to Rohit with a smile. "Change of plans—I've gotta go take Magic for a walk. Want to join?"

"You mean the same Magic you're always going on about? I'd love to finally meet him!"

"I promise he's as adorable as I've said... probably even more."

When they reached her place, Vritika led Rohit into the yard, where an excitable black-and-white fluffball bounded over to greet her.

"There he is!" Vritika beamed, kneeling down as the dog wagged his tail excitedly, jumping around her legs. "Magic, meet Rohit."

Magic stopped mid-bounce, his curious eyes narrowing at the unfamiliar presence. A low bark escaped his throat as he cautiously approached, sniffing the air.

Rohit chuckled nervously, holding out his hand slowly. "Hey, buddy...we're friends, I swear."

"Magic, shhh!" Vritika cooed, petting his head and calming him down. "It's okay, boy. He's a friend."

Magic tilted his head as if considering her words, then gave Rohit's outstretched hand a curious sniff. Satisfied, he let out a small, approving woof and gave Rohit's fingers a quick, slobbery lick.

"See?" Vritika said, grinning. "He's all bark and no bite once you get to know him."

Rohit grinned back, scratching Magic behind the ears. 

As they set off on their walk, Magic trotted ahead, glancing back occasionally to make sure Vritika was close. Rohit kept pace beside her, trying to stay friendly with Magic, who kept a cautious distance, his tail wagging with mild curiosity but still eyeing Rohit every now and then.

"He's a little suspicious, huh?" Rohit laughed, watching Magic keep a safe two feet between them.

"Oh, he just needs time," Vritika assured him with a smile. "He's the same way with anyone new. Give it a few more treats, and he'll be begging to sit on your lap. I picked him up three years back from the streets."

"Really?" Rohit glanced at her, impressed. "So you rescued him?"

 "Yeah, he was just this scrappy little pup hiding behind a dumpster. It was raining, and he looked so scared... I couldn't just leave him there." She smiled, reminiscing. "Brought him home, gave him a bath, and he's been my little shadow ever since. I begged Papa to let me keep him, but he refused at first then Magic grew on him and he allowed him to stay. And now Papa acts all tough, but I've caught him sneaking treats to Magic when he thinks no one's watching.And it broke my heart every time I had to leave him at home to go back to the hostel."

"Well, then I hope you secure a college here in Delhi itself."

"Soch lo...phir tujse dur rehna padega." That thought honestly scared her. What if distance grew between them and they lost touch with each other?

"Hey, come on, don't think like that. We'll find a way to stay connected, no matter where you end up." Rohit noticed the slight frown on her face and quickly added.

Vritika forced a smile, but her heart felt heavy. "Yeah, I guess. But it's not the same, is it?"

"Trust me, Vri. You won't lose me," Rohit said, his voice firm and reassuring. "No matter what happens, I'll always be in your corner."

Her heart warmed at his words, easing some of the tension in her chest. "Okay, I'll hold you to that."

******

A/n

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