Sara stood in front of her wardrobe, feeling completely at a loss for what to wear. She picked up her phone and called Aditi, who arrived in no time.

"So, you're going to a cricket match between GT and RCB?" Aditi asked with a grin. "Why don't you wear that black dress?"

Sara's face lit up. "Good idea. Thanks, Adi."

"Don't mention it. You go get ready; I'll hang out here," Aditi said, waving her off.

Sara nodded and grabbed the dress, heading off to change. She soon emerged, looking stunning in a sleek, form-fitting black dress with a simple yet sophisticated design. The dress featured a square neckline that highlighted her collarbones, and short puffed sleeves added a touch of femininity and vintage charm.

The dress hugged her figure perfectly, falling just below the knee, with a ruffle hem adding a playful, flirty element. A high slit on one side gave the outfit a daring and sexy edge, revealing just enough leg to balance the dress's modest length with boldness.

She accessorized with delicate jewelry—a small pendant necklace—and carried a small, textured clutch in a neutral tone that complemented the black dress. Simple, strappy nude heels elongated her legs, maintaining the outfit's sophisticated look.

"My, my, Sara. You look so sexy," Aditi teased, her eyes twinkling.

"Shut up, Aditi," Sara retorted, rolling her eyes with a smile.

Aditi chuckled. "Alright, alright. You're going to be late. Text me later, okay?"

Sara grabbed her keys and headed out. "Will do," she called back.

When she reached the stadium, she was immediately greeted by paparazzi. They bombarded her with questions, one even asking, "Why is Sachin Tendulkar settled in London?"

Ignoring them, Sara made her way inside and soon found herself face-to-face with a friendly stranger.

"You must be Sara, right?" the man asked.

Sara nodded, slightly puzzled. "I don't think we've met."

He smiled warmly. "I'm Khushpreet Singh, but you can call me Jugnu. I'm Shubman's childhood best friend."

Sara's face softened into a smile. "Good to know."

They sat down together, and after a moment, she asked, "Do you always come to his matches?"

Jugnu nodded. "Yeah, most of them."

Sara and Jugnu settled into their seats, the atmosphere buzzing with excitement as fans filled the stadium. The anticipation in the air was palpable, and Sara could feel her own nerves tingling, though she wasn't sure if it was because of the match or the fact that she was here for Shubman.

"So, how long have you known Shubman?" Sara asked, trying to distract herself from the fluttering in her stomach.

"Since we were kids," Jugnu replied with a nostalgic smile. "We grew up together, and I've seen him evolve into the cricketer he is today. It's been quite the journey."

Sara nodded, intrigued. "He doesn't talk much about his childhood."

Jugnu chuckled. "Yeah, Shubman's always been a bit reserved. But once you get to know him, he's one of the most loyal and caring people you'll ever meet."

Sara smiled at that, feeling a warmth in her chest. "I've started to notice that."

The match soon began, and the roar of the crowd surged as the players took their positions. Sara's eyes were glued to Shubman as he walked onto the field, his focus and determination evident in every step. He looked so different from the Shubman she was getting to know—serious, intense, and completely in his element.

As the match progressed, Jugnu pointed out various details about the game, explaining strategies and moves. But Sara's attention kept drifting back to Shubman, watching his every move, feeling a sense of pride every time he scored or made a crucial play.

During a brief break in the match, Shubman caught her eye from the field. He gave her a small nod, and Sara couldn't help but smile and wave. Jugnu noticed the exchange and grinned.

"He's got his eye on you," Jugnu teased lightly.

Sara blushed, trying to play it cool. "We're just friends."

Jugnu raised an eyebrow but didn't push the topic further. Instead, he focused back on the game, but Sara could tell he wasn't entirely convinced by her words.

As the match continued, Sara found herself completely engrossed in the game, cheering loudly along with Jugnu. She hadn't realized how thrilling cricket could be, especially when you're rooting for someone you care about.

When the match finally ended, with Gujarat Titans emerging victorious, the stadium erupted in cheers. Sara stood up, clapping enthusiastically. She was genuinely happy for Shubman, who had played exceptionally well.

As the players began to leave the field, Jugnu nudged Sara. "You should go congratulate him."

Sara hesitated for a moment but then nodded. "Yeah, I will."

She made her way through the crowd, her heart racing as she approached the area where the players were gathering. Shubman was talking to a few teammates, but he noticed her approaching and excused himself.

"Sara," he said with a smile, his eyes lighting up when he saw her. "You came."

"Of course I did," Sara replied, returning his smile. "Congratulations, Shubman. You played amazingly."

"Thanks," he said, looking genuinely pleased. "It means a lot that you were here."

Sara blushed slightly and was about to say something when Jugnu walked up, grinning widely. "Great game, buddy!"

"Thanks, Jugnu," Shubman replied, giving his friend a playful shove. "You better not have been filling Sara's head with stories about me."

Jugnu laughed. "I was just telling her the truth."

Sara chuckled, feeling at ease with the playful banter between the two friends. Shubman turned to her and said, "I'm really glad you came today, Sara. It made the win even better."

Sara smiled warmly. "I wouldn't have missed it."

Shubman's gaze softened as he looked at her. "We should do this again sometime. Maybe without the cricket, though."

"Are you asking me out, Shubman?" Sara teased lightly, raising an eyebrow.

Shubman grinned. "Maybe I am. What do you say?"

Sara pretended to think for a moment before nodding. "I'd say yes."

"Great," Shubman said, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "I'll make sure it's a day to remember."

As they walked out of the stadium together, with Jugnu trailing behind, Sara couldn't help but feel that this was the start of something special.

As they exited the stadium, the evening sky was painted with hues of orange and pink, a beautiful backdrop for what felt like the beginning of something new. Jugnu, ever the playful one, turned to Sara with a grin.

"Hey, Sara, I've got a crazy idea," he said, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Sara raised an eyebrow, curious. "What's that, Jugnu?"

"How about I take your car and you let Shubman drive you around? He knows a great spot just outside the city. Trust me, you'll love it."

Shubman shot Jugnu a look, clearly catching on to his friend's intentions. "Jugnu, what are you—"

But Sara, intrigued by the idea of spending more time with Shubman, cut him off. "That sounds fun. Where's this spot?"

Jugnu handed Shubman the keys before he could protest. "Just trust me on this one, Sara. I'll make sure your car gets home safely. You two go enjoy the night."

Sara laughed, taking the keys from Jugnu and passing them to Shubman. "Looks like you're driving."

Shubman shook his head, a smile playing on his lips. "I guess I am. Alright then, let's go."

As Jugnu waved them off with a cheeky grin, Sara and Shubman got into his car. The atmosphere was relaxed as they drove through the city and eventually out into the quieter, more serene outskirts. The city lights gradually faded away, replaced by the natural beauty of the countryside.

After about thirty minutes, Shubman turned onto a narrow, winding road that led up a hill. The path was surrounded by lush greenery, and the further they went, the more breathtaking the view became. Finally, they reached the top, where a small cliff overlooked the sprawling city below.

Shubman parked the car, and they both stepped out. The air was cool and crisp, a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of the city. Sara took in the view, her breath catching at the sight. The city lights sparkled like a sea of stars beneath them, and the sky above was dotted with real ones.

"This is... incredible," Sara said softly, her eyes wide with wonder.

Shubman leaned against the car, watching her reaction with a satisfied smile. "I come here sometimes to clear my head. It's peaceful."

Sara walked closer to the edge, careful but eager to take in the full view. "I can see why. It's like the world just stops for a moment up here."

Shubman joined her, standing beside her as they both gazed out at the city. The silence between them was comfortable, filled with an unspoken understanding.

"Thank you for bringing me here," Sara said after a while, her voice barely above a whisper.

Shubman glanced at her, his expression softening. "I'm glad you came. After everything, I thought you might need a place like this."

Sara turned to him, surprised. "You mean after what happened with Rahul?"

Shubman nodded, his gaze focused on the horizon. "Yeah. I could tell you were shaken up. I just wanted to help you feel better."

Sara felt a warmth spread through her chest. "You did more than that, Shubman. I feel safe with you."

Shubman looked at her, their eyes locking. There was something in his gaze that made her heart skip a beat—a mixture of protectiveness, care, and something deeper that she couldn't quite put into words.

"I'm glad," he murmured, his voice sincere.

They stood there for a long moment, the silence between them speaking louder than any words could. Finally, Shubman broke the silence.

"You know, Jugnu was right," he said, a small smile playing on his lips. "This is a good way to end the day."

Sara chuckled softly. "He's a good friend. And he clearly knows you well."

Shubman nodded. "Yeah, he does. He also knew I needed this—time away from everything, just to be here."

Sara took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the day lift off her shoulders. "Well, I'm glad you brought me here. It's beautiful."

Shubman reached out, gently taking her hand. "And I'm glad you're here with me."

Sara looked down at their intertwined hands, feeling a flutter in her chest. It was a simple gesture, but it felt significant. They stood like that for a while, holding hands and watching the city lights twinkle beneath them, the world around them fading into the background.

As the night grew darker and the stars shone brighter, they both knew that this moment, this connection, was something special. Something that neither of them wanted to let go of.

Eventually, they made their way back to the car, but the magic of the night lingered. Shubman drove her back to the city, the quiet between them filled with a new understanding, a silent promise of something more.

When they finally reached Sara's place, Shubman walked her to the door.

"Thanks for tonight," Sara said, her voice soft. "It was... perfect."

Shubman smiled, his dimples deepening. "I'm glad you thought so. Let's do it again sometime."

Sara nodded, her heart light. "I'd like that."

With a final smile, Shubman turned to leave, but not before giving her hand a gentle squeeze. As he walked away, Sara couldn't help but feel that this was the beginning of something beautiful.

Sara entered her apartment, still lost in the memories of the evening. She kicked off her heels, changed into her comfortable pajamas, and settled onto the couch. As she scrolled through her phone, a message from Aditi popped up.

Aditi: Sooo, how was the match? Or should I say, how was the date? 😏

Sara: It wasn't a date! Just watching a cricket match with Shubman's friend, that's all.

Aditi: Uh-huh. And did this "friend" happen to have dimples that made you melt? 😜

Sara: Omg, stop! 🙈 But yeah... those dimples are something else.

Aditi: I knew it! You've got it bad, girl. So, what else happened?

Sara: We went to this beautiful cliff outside the city after the match. It was breathtaking, Aditi. And he was so sweet. He just knew how to make me feel better, you know?

Aditi: Wow, he really pulled out all the stops. I'm almost jealous! So, did you guys talk? Like, really talk?

Sara: Yeah, we did. He's so easy to talk to, and I feel like I can be myself around him. Plus, he was really protective after everything that happened with Rahul.

Aditi: Protective, huh? I see where this is going! Did he walk you to your door like a perfect gentleman?

Sara: Of course. He even held my hand for a bit. It was... nice.

Aditi: Omg, Sara! You're totally crushing on him! I can't believe this! 😍

Sara: Maybe... okay, fine, yes. He's different, Adi. There's something about him that makes me feel safe and happy at the same time.

Aditi: I knew it from the moment you talked about him! So, what's next? More "not dates"? 😉

Sara: We'll see. He did say he wants to do it again sometime. I just... I really like being around him.

Aditi: Well, I'm rooting for you, babe! Shubman sounds like a keeper. Just don't forget to keep me updated on all the juicy details!

Sara: Haha, I will. Thanks, Adi. You always know how to make things clear for me. ❤️

Aditi: That's what best friends are for! Now get some rest. You've got more "dates" to plan. 😏

Sara: Night, Adi. Talk tomorrow!

Aditi: Night, Sara! Sweet dreams of dimples and cliffs! 😘

Sara smiled as she set her phone aside, feeling a warm glow inside. Aditi was right—Shubman was something special, and she couldn't wait to see where this new connection would lead.

After a refreshing shower, Shubman felt more relaxed, but his thoughts kept drifting back to the evening with Sara. He grabbed his phone and decided to text Jugnu and Abhishek on their WhatsApp group, knowing full well what he was getting into.

Shubman: Just got back home. Thanks for taking care of Sara's car, Jugnu.

Jugnu: No worries, bro. But more importantly, how was the "drive" with Sara? 😉

Abhishek: Oh, this is getting interesting! Did you finally confess your undying love, Mr. Dimple King? 😏

Shubman: You guys seriously need to chill. It was just a drive, nothing more.

Jugnu: A drive to a secluded cliff, at night, with a girl who's totally into you? Sure, just a drive. 😂

Abhishek: Did you at least hold her hand? Or was it just awkward silence and cricket talk?

Shubman: Yeah, we talked... and I might have held her hand for a bit.

Jugnu: Oho! Hand-holding, huh? Next step: "Sara, will you be my girlfriend?" 😜

Abhishek: Seriously though, how do you feel about her? We all know she's into you.

Shubman: I don't know... I like being around her. She makes me feel calm, like I don't have to pretend to be anything I'm not. But it's complicated, you know?

Jugnu: Complicated because you're scared of falling for her or because of that dark secret of yours? 🤨

Shubman: Both, I guess. She's special, and I don't want to mess it up.

Abhishek: Then don't. Just go with the flow, man. Let things happen naturally. We've got your back, whatever you decide.

Jugnu: And remember, if you ever need a wingman or someone to scare off annoying paps, I'm your guy! 😎

Shubman: Thanks, guys. I mean it. I'll see where this goes. But for now, I just want to take it slow.

Jugnu: Slow is good. Just don't let her slip away. You deserve to be happy, Shubman.

Abhishek: And hey, if you need us to crash another date... I mean, drive, just let us know. 😏

Shubman: You two are impossible. But thanks. I'll keep you posted.

Jugnu: That's our boy! Now get some sleep, loverboy. You've got a big day tomorrow.

Abhishek: Yeah, don't be late for college just because you were up all night thinking about her. 😁

Shubman: Haha, goodnight, idiots. Talk tomorrow.

Shubman chuckled as he put his phone down. Despite the teasing, he knew his friends were genuinely looking out for him. As he lay down, his thoughts once again drifted to Sara, and he couldn't help but smile at the possibilities that lay ahead.