As they arrived at Kainaat's home, Shubman hurriedly got out of the car and walked around to open the door for her. Kainaat smiled appreciatively at his chivalry and stepped out, feeling a rush of warmth at his thoughtful gesture.

"Thank you," she said softly, her eyes meeting his.

Shubman returned her smile, his gaze lingering on her face. "Anytime," he replied, his voice filled with sincerity.

They stood there for a moment, the air charged with unspoken emotions. Then, as if drawn together by an invisible force, they leaned in and shared a tender goodbye kiss.

As Kainaat settled into her bedroom, her mind still buzzing with the memories of her day with Shubman,

She was startled by the sound of her bedroom door opening. Turning, she saw her mom standing there with a mischievous glint in her eye.

"Mom!" Kainaat exclaimed, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "I didn't hear you come in."

Her mom chuckled, walking over to sit beside her on the bed. "I saw Shubman dropping you off," she said with a knowing smile. "And I must say, I didn't expect to witness a romantic moment right outside our doorstep."

Kainaat groaned, burying her face in her hands. "Oh no, did you see us kissing?" she asked, feeling mortified.

Her mom laughed, patting her gently on the back. "Yes, dear, I did," she admitted. "But don't worry, I won't tell your dad or adi"

Kainaat rolled her eyes, though a small smile tugged at her lips. "Mom, it's not like that," she protested, though her cheeks were still flushed pink.

Her mom winked playfully. "Of course not, dear. But I can see the way he look at you. It's written all over his faces."

Despite her embarrassment, Kainaat couldn't help but feel a surge of warmth at her mom's words. She was grateful for her understanding and support, even if it came with a side of teasing.

"Thanks, Mom," she said softly, leaning into her mom's comforting embrace. "I really like him, you know."

Her mom smiled, squeezing her hand affectionately. "I know, sweetheart. And I couldn't be happier for you. Just promise me one thing?"

"What's that?" Kainaat asked, curious.

"Enjoy this time together," her mom said, her eyes twinkling with maternal wisdom. "Love is a beautiful thing, and it's worth savoring every moment."

Kainaat nodded, feeling a rush of gratitude for her mom's words. With a renewed sense of excitement, she thought about the future she and Shubman would share, filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities.

As Kainaat and her mom shared their heartfelt conversation, the atmosphere in the room suddenly shifted as the door creaked open. Turning, Kainaat's heart sank as she saw Aditya standing there, his expression dark and stormy.

"Aditya..." Kainaat started, but he cut her off with a curt wave of his hand.

"I heard everything," he said tersely, his voice laced with anger. "I can't believe you're getting involved with that cricketer, Kainaat. You know how I feel about him."

Kainaat's mom intervened, her tone gentle but firm. "Aditya, please calm down. Kainaat is old enough to make her own decisions."

But Aditya wasn't having it. His frustration boiled over as he paced back and forth, his hands clenched into fists at his sides. "He's not good enough for you, Kainaat. He's just a player, both on and off the field."

Kainaat felt a surge of defiance rise within her. "You don't know him like I do, Aditya," she insisted, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her. "He's kind, caring, and he makes me happy."

Aditya shook his head, his jaw set stubbornly. "I don't care. I won't stand by and watch you get hurt because of him."

Kainaat's mom stepped forward, placing a comforting hand on Aditya's arm. "Aditya, please try to understand. Kainaat deserves to follow her heart,"

Aditya's expression softened slightly at the mention of his wife, but his resolve remained firm. "I just don't want to see Kainaat get hurt," he muttered, his gaze flickering between his sister and his mother.

Kainaat took a deep breath, steeling herself for what she was about to say. "I appreciate your concern, Aditya, but this is my life," she said, her voice unwavering. "I'm asking you to trust me and give Shubman a chance."

Aditya's jaw tensed, but after a long moment, he nodded reluctantly. "Fine," he said gruffly. "But if he ever hurts you, Kainaat, I won't hesitate to set him straight."

Kainaat offered him a small smile, grateful for his begrudging acceptance. "Thank you, Aditya," she said sincerely. "I hope you'll see that Shubman is a good guy, just like I do."

As Aditya turned to leave, a thought seemed to strike him, and he pivoted back with determination written all over his face.

"Actually," he said firmly, "I want to have a word with this Shubman fellow."

Kainaat and her mom exchanged amused glances, trying to suppress their laughter at Aditya's sudden change of heart.

"Sure, Aditya," Kainaat replied, a playful glint in her eyes. "But please, try not to scare him off."

Aditya huffed, his expression softening slightly. "I make no promises," he said gruffly before turning on his heel and marching out of the room.

Kainaat and her mom burst into laughter, the tension of the moment broken by Aditya's unexpected reaction. It was clear that while Aditya may have his reservations about Shubman, his protective instincts were kicking into full gear.

***************

As Shubman walked into the dressing room, the atmosphere shifted. His teammates, ever the keen observers, couldn't resist the opportunity to tease him.

"Look who finally found love!" Ishan exclaimed, his grin wide as he elbowed Shubman playfully.

Rohit Sharma, the captain, joined in with a chuckle. "I never thought I'd see the day when Shubman Gill would be a lovesick puppy!"

Shubman rolled his eyes, but there was a hint of amusement in his expression. "You guys are unbelievable," he muttered, though there was a warmth in his tone that belied his exasperation.

Hardik Pandya, always ready with a quip, couldn't resist adding his two cents. "I guess even the toughest players have a soft spot, huh?"

Virat Kohli, ever the supportive teammate, offered a nod of approval. "Hey, if she makes you happy, Shubman, that's all that matters."

Shubman, though teased mercilessly by his teammates, couldn't help but feel a swell of affection for each and every one of them. They were like family, and their playful ribbing was just another sign of the bond they shared.

How was it?
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I know it wasn't the best chapter but i am trying.

I will try to update the next chapter soon

Shubman and aditya meeting in the next one. ( gaya shubman )

Your author
- Aanya