𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 [ november ] [ about 2 years since they were dating ]

Mithra gathered with Shubman's teammates in a quiet corner of the training ground, away from the revelry of the previous night's celebration. There was an air of excitement and anticipation as they huddled together, eager to be part of Mithra's special plan.

"Alright, everyone," Mithra began, her voice filled with determination. "I've been thinking about this for a while, and I've decided I want to propose to Shubman. I need your help to make it memorable."

Rohit , the ever-supportive captain of the team, grinned widely. "That's fantastic, Mithra! We're all in. What's the plan?"

Ishan, known for his creative thinking, jumped in with a suggestion. "Do you want it to be a surprise for him?"

"Absolutely," Mithra replied with a nod. "I want it to be unexpected, something he'll remember for the rest of his life."

The teammates exchanged glances, each brainstorming ideas to make the proposal unique and unforgettable.

Shreyas, with a twinkle in his eye, suggested, "What about incorporating cricket into the proposal? Something related to the game he loves."

KL Rahul, always the strategist, added, "How about a surprise on the field? Maybe during practice or a casual game with the team?"

Virat, known for his attention to detail, chimed in, "We can arrange for a banner or something on the field. You can pop the question after a game."

Mithra listened attentively, jotting down notes and considering the various suggestions. She appreciated the camaraderie and support from Shubman's teammates, who were genuinely excited to be part of this significant moment.

"I love the idea of incorporating cricket," Mithra finally said, her eyes alight with excitement. 

"Let's plan a surprise on the field, and I'll pop the question after a game. Any more suggestions or thoughts?"

Hardik, with his knack for the dramatic, suggested, "You could use the scoreboard to display a special message or even create a mini-highlight video of your moments together."

Ishan, always one for celebrations, added, "And we can organize a mini-celebration with the team afterward. Make it a moment to remember for everyone."

Mithra smiled, feeling grateful for the creativity and enthusiasm pouring from Shubman's teammates. The plan was taking shape, and the collective effort promised to make the proposal a memorable event.

"Thank you, everyone," Mithra said, her heart full of gratitude. "Your ideas are incredible, and I couldn't be more excited. Let's make this a day he'll cherish forever."

The teammates nodded in agreement, sharing glances of camaraderie and silent anticipation for the upcoming surprise. 

The stadium buzzed with post-match activity as Mithra prepared for the interview with Shubman. His stellar performance on the field had just contributed to another victory for the team, and the atmosphere was electric with celebration.

"Hello, everyone!" Mithra greeted the camera with a smile. "We're here with the man of the match, Shubman Gill, after an outstanding performance. Shubman, how does it feel to have played such a crucial role in today's win?"

Shubman, still beaming from the excitement of the game, responded, "It's always special to contribute to the team's success. The support from the fans and the camaraderie within the squad make these moments truly memorable."

As the interview continued, Mithra subtly guided the conversation towards a more personal note, knowing that the moment they had planned was fast approaching.

"Shubman, there's been a lot of talk lately about partnerships, not just on the field but off it too," Mithra said casually. "What are your thoughts on that?"

Shubman raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the shift in topic. "Partnerships? Well, they're crucial in cricket, and off the field, they add a different kind of joy to life."

Mithra seized the opportunity, her mischievous smile hinting at the surprise to come. "Speaking of partnerships, Shubman, how do you feel about a different kind of partnership, a lifelong one, perhaps?"

Confusion flickered across Shubman's face as Mithra went down on one knee, holding out a small box. The stadium fell silent in anticipation.

"Do you have any objection to me taking your surname?" Mithra's voice carried across the hushed stadium.

Shubman, caught off guard, looked around, his teammates exchanging knowing glances. Finally, with a playful smile, he pulled out a small box from his pocket.

"So, what should I do with this ring?" Shubman teased, drawing out the suspense.

Laughter echoed through the stadium as the crowd realized what was happening. Eventually, Shubman nodded, a genuine smile lighting up his face.

"Yes," he said simply.

Mithra's eyes sparkled with joy as she slid the ring onto his finger, sealing the moment with a kiss. Shubman, not to be outdone, took her hand and placed another ring on her finger, amidst cheers and applause from the fans.

Meanwhile, the scoreboard lit up with the words: "HE SAID YES," drawing even more cheers from the crowd. The entire stadium erupted in a celebration of love and partnership, transcending the boundaries of the cricket field. 

The kiss lingered, a sweet affirmation of their shared joy, and the crowd roared with approval. Shubman and Mithra, lost in the moment, were oblivious to the cameras capturing this intimate celebration.

"You really caught me off guard there, Shubman," Mithra whispered, her eyes sparkling with love and surprise.

Shubman smirked, pulling her into another embrace. "Well, turnabout is fair play, isn't it?" he teased, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

As their embrace deepened, the stadium's giant screen displayed their blissful kiss, turning the tender moment into a spectacle for thousands to witness.

"I guess we've given them quite the show," Mithra teased playfully, her cheeks flushed with excitement.

Shubman grinned, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. "Let them talk. This is our moment," he declared proudly, his gaze never leaving hers.

Breaking the kiss, Shubman took Mithra's hand, showcasing the matching rings they now wore. The words "HE SAID YES" on the scoreboard continued to draw cheers from the crowd, adding to the euphoria of the moment.

"So, how does it feel, Mr. Gill?" Mithra asked, her voice filled with affection as she gazed into Shubman's eyes.

"Absolutely perfect, Mrs. Gill," Shubman replied with a smirk, his heart overflowing with love and happiness.

Their playful banter echoed through the stadium, creating a light-hearted atmosphere that enveloped them in a bubble of joy. Shubman and Mithra shared a knowing look, understanding the significance of this moment in their journey together.

Their teammates, who had played a crucial role in orchestrating this surprise proposal, approached the couple with congratulatory smiles and playful nudges.

"Well, that was something, wasn't it?" Rohit grinned, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

"Congratulations, Shubman!" KL Rahul exclaimed, clapping Shubman on the back.

"I didn't know you had it in you, mate," Shreyas added with a chuckle, earning a playful shove from Shubman.

Still grinning, Shubman thanked his teammates for being part of this memorable moment. The celebration continued, with the stadium speakers playing a cheerful tune and fans dancing in the stands.
Amidst the cheers and celebrations, Ishan, dramatically placed his hands on his face, feigning tears as he exclaimed, "She stole my husband!"

The entire group burst into laughter at Ishan's theatrical display. Shubman playfully rolled his eyes, breaking into a grin.

"Oh come on, Ishan. I'm still your friend!" Shubman mockingly retorted, his tone laced with amusement.

Ishan let out a melodramatic sigh, his hand dramatically placed over his heart. "Friendship over! Mithra stole you with that surprise proposal!" he declared, earning more laughter from the group.

The playful banter continued, adding a light-hearted touch to the celebratory atmosphere. Athiya and Anushka, along with the rest of the group, joined in the laughter, creating a moment of shared joy and camaraderie.

"I promise, Ishan, I'll share him. Friends forever!" Mithra chimed in, her laughter infectious as she playfully reassuredhim.

Ishan dramatically wiped away his fake tears, a mischievous twinkle in his eye, as they all enjoyed the humorous interlude amidst the celebrations. The banter, laughter, and love filled the air, turning the engagement into an even more unforgettable and cherished memory for everyone present.

Mithra's playful remark sparked a wave of laughter through the group, with Ishan joining in the banter with a wink and a jest about sharing Shubman's time.

"You know, Ishan, we can totally share him. It's the modern way of having a husband, right?" Mithra quipped, her playful grin adding to the jovial atmosphere.

Ishan, not missing a beat, responded with a wink of his own. "Well, as long as I get him on alternate weekends!" he joked, eliciting more laughter from their friends.

Caught up in the infectious humor of the moment, Virat and KL Rahul couldn't contain themselves, their laughter causing them to collapse onto the ground. Shubman, shooting them a mock stern look, played along with the light-hearted teasing.

"I didn't know I was such a sought-after commodity. Maybe I should start charging for my time," Shubman chimed in with a smirk, his tone laced with amusement.

Once again, the group erupted into laughter, their camaraderie and joy filling the air. It was a moment of shared happiness, where the unexpected proposal had seamlessly blended into a celebration of love, friendship, and the bonds that tied them all together.

Virat, sensing the need for a more formal celebration, rose to his feet and cleared his throat, commanding the attention of the room.

"Alright, folks!" he declared with a wide grin. "We can't let this joyous occasion pass without a proper celebration. I've arranged a small gathering in the hotel. So, everyone, go get ready, and let's make this night one to remember!"

His announcement was met with cheers and applause, the excitement palpable among the teammates. Without hesitation, they began to disperse, heading to their respective hotel rooms to prepare for the evening ahead.

Shubman turned to Mithra with a smile. "Looks like we're in for a night to remember," he remarked.

Mithra returned his smile. "Absolutely! I'm looking forward to capturing more memorable moments," she replied, her camera at the ready.

As they made their way to the hotel, the corridors buzzed with anticipation. Teammates exchanged playful banter, discussing what the celebration might entail.

"I expect to see some killer dance moves from you tonight, Shubman!" Ishan teased.Shubman smirked in response. "You might just witness a miracle, Ishan. I'll consider it," he joked back.

With her camera capturing the playful camaraderie of the team, Mithra soaked in the atmosphere, knowing that this night would be filled with laughter and cherished memories.

Once they reached their rooms, the players and their partners began to prepare for the celebration. Wardrobes were raided for the perfect outfits, and the anticipation of a night filled with joy and revelry added an extra layer of excitement.

Virat, turning to Anushka with a grin, asked, "Ready for a celebration, Mrs. Kohli?"

Anushka nodded, her smile radiant. "Absolutely, Captain!"

Meanwhile, Shubman and Mithra shared a meaningful glance, understanding that this night was not just about their love but also about the friendships that had blossomed within the cricket fraternity.

As the hotel corridors buzzed with activity, each person prepared for the celebration in their own way, knowing that this night would become a cherished memory, woven into the fabric of their cricketing journey.