Ahaan was browsing through a shop, carefully picking out gifts for his family. He found a delicate bracelet that reminded him of Aadhya and added it to the collection of items he had selected for her. After wrapping up his shopping, he made his way to a cozy coffee shop nearby, ordering his usual drink to unwind.

As he sipped his coffee, a familiar voice called out, "Ahaan?"

Startled, he turned around, and his face lit up. "Sammy? I thought you were back in India! That's what you told me when we texted."

Samaira laughed, shaking her head. "Surprise! I had a work project here that got scheduled last minute, so I thought I'd keep it a secret until I ran into you." She took a seat beside him, her eyes twinkling.

"Well, this is a great surprise," Ahaan replied, a smile spreading across his face. "I'm glad you're here. It's been a while since we actually caught up in person."

As they chatted, the atmosphere became more relaxed and filled with laughter. Samaira shared stories about her work, and Ahaan filled her in on the selection trials and the media frenzy he'd been dealing with. He admitted, "Honestly, it's been a rollercoaster. Sometimes, I feel like I have to keep proving myself, you know?"

Samaira placed a comforting hand on his. "Ahaan, you're amazing at what you do. People who really know you can see your talent beyond just being a 'Gill.' You've got this."

Her words eased his worries, and he felt more at ease. "Thanks, Sammy. I didn't realize how much I needed to hear that."

They stayed, talking and laughing until evening, reminiscing about old times, and building memories anew. Ahaan finally glanced at his watch and realized how late it had become. He looked at her, a bit reluctant. "Maybe we could hang out again before you leave?" he suggested, his tone hopeful.

Samaira smiled warmly. "I'd love that. Just let me know when."

As they stood up to leave, there was a brief moment where Ahaan and Samaira reached for the same cup on the table, their hands brushing against each other. Both froze for a split second, surprised by the sudden spark between them.

Samaira quickly pulled her hand back, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "Uh, sorry," she murmured, her cheeks tinged pink.

"No, no, it's... totally fine," Ahaan stammered, suddenly aware of how close they were standing. He let out a nervous chuckle, scratching the back of his neck. "It's just... weird seeing you here. In a good way! But, uh, unexpected."

They shared an awkward laugh, neither quite knowing how to navigate the moment. For a second, they locked eyes, and Ahaan felt his heart race. She looked beautiful, especially with the late afternoon sunlight highlighting her features, and he could tell she was a bit flustered too.

Samaira cleared her throat, breaking the silence. "So... I guess I'll see you around?" she said, her voice softer than usual.

"Yeah, definitely," he replied, trying to sound casual despite the warmth in his cheeks. "Let's, um, plan something soon?"

"Sure, that'd be nice." She nodded, a shy smile lingering on her face.

They walked out of the coffee shop together, both a little quieter than before. As they reached the street corner, Ahaan took a deep breath. "Hey, Samaira, thanks for today. It... meant a lot."

She looked at him, the smile widening. "Anytime, Ahaan. I'm really glad we ran into each other."

They lingered for a moment, as if both of them were reluctant to part ways. Ahaan hesitated, feeling a surge of courage. "You know, I, uh... I think I've missed you more than I realized."

Samaira looked at him, her eyes softening. "Me too," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

With a final smile, they said their goodbyes and walked in opposite directions, both feeling an unfamiliar but undeniable connection.

Later that night, Ahaan was lounging on the couch in his hotel room, half-watching a cricket highlights reel on TV when his phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen to see a message from Samaira.

Samaira: Hey! Hope I'm not disturbing you.

Ahaan's face brightened, and he quickly responded.

Ahaan: Not at all! Just watching old matches. What's up?

He watched the screen eagerly as she started typing.

Samaira: I just... wanted to say thanks for today. It was really nice. Felt like we could just be us, you know?

Ahaan: Same here. It's been a while since I could actually relax like that. You really helped me take my mind off everything.

He hesitated for a moment before adding:

Ahaan: You being there... made it better, actually.

There was a pause, and Ahaan's heart raced as he watched the "typing..." notification on his screen. Finally, her reply came through.

Samaira: Well, you made it easy. I kind of miss days like that with you.

Ahaan felt his pulse quicken. There was something comforting and exciting about talking to her like this. He wanted to say more, to tell her that he'd been thinking about her a lot lately, but he kept it simple.

Ahaan: I missed it too. Guess we have to do this more often.

Samaira: Agreed! We definitely should. Maybe next time, it won't be so... awkward?

Ahaan chuckled, remembering their shy exchanges at the coffee shop.

Ahaan: Yeah, no accidental hand-holding next time?

Samaira: No promises! 😂

They both laughed, and after a pause, she added:

Samaira: Get some rest, though. Big day tomorrow, Mr. Cricketer. I'll be cheering for you from here!

Ahaan felt a surge of warmth at her words, and he smiled.

Ahaan: Thanks, Sammy. Goodnight, and... thanks again for today.

They said their goodnights, and as Ahaan put down his phone, he realized he couldn't stop smiling.

As Ahaan settled back on the couch, still smiling from his conversation with Samaira, he heard a soft knock on the door. It was Shubman, who walked in with a relaxed demeanor but a serious look in his eyes.

"Hey, Ahaan. You ready for tomorrow?" Shubman asked, sitting down beside him.

Ahaan nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. "Yeah papa, just trying to keep my mind off it. I had a chat with Samaira earlier."

Shubman raised an eyebrow, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "Oh? That sounds promising. But let's focus on your match first."

"Right," Ahaan said, straightening up. "What do you think I should focus on?"

Shubman leaned back, crossing his arms thoughtfully. "Well, remember, it's all about maintaining your composure. You've practiced hard for this. Stick to your strengths, but be adaptable. If the pitch changes, adjust your strategy accordingly."

Ahaan listened intently, nodding. "Got it. Composure and adaptability."

"And don't forget to communicate with your teammates," Shubman continued. "You need to be the leader on the field. Encourage them, and keep an eye out for their body language. If someone's feeling off, lift them up."

"Yeah, I'll keep that in mind," Ahaan replied, feeling a sense of determination building within him.

"And last but not least," Shubman added, leaning in slightly, "enjoy the game. Remember why you love cricket in the first place. It's not just about winning; it's about playing the game you're passionate about."

Ahaan felt a rush of confidence at his father's words. "Thanks, Papa. I really appreciate it."

Shubman smiled, giving Ahaan a supportive pat on the back. "You're going to do great. Just believe in yourself. I'll be watching from the stands, cheering you on."

"Thanks papa, that means a lot," Ahaan said, a mix of excitement and gratitude in his voice.

As Shubman stood up to leave, he added, "Now get some rest. You'll need it. Tomorrow is going to be big."

Ahaan nodded, his heart racing at the thought of the match ahead. As he prepared for bed, he felt a renewed sense of purpose, eager to make his father proud and show everyone what he was capable of on the field.