"Kashmir, truly deserving of its title as 'Heaven on Earth,' Pashmina thought, her chin resting on the edge of the rolled-down window. The cool breeze brushed against her face as her eyes wandered over the breathtaking landscape—snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and streams that shimmered like silver threads in the distance. She felt a quiet awe settle in as if the beauty of the place was gently unravelling the tension she had carried for so long.

She held onto Shubman's index finger while continuing to gaze out the window. It was something she always did when they were together—gripping his finger gently as if to reassure herself that he was always there, a steady presence she could count on. It gave her comfort, knowing that by holding onto him in this small way, he wasn't leaving her, not now, not ever.

Shubman felt her gentle grip and glanced over at her, a smile touching his lips. He understood the significance of the gesture—how such a small action could mean so much to her.

Shubman gently squeezed her hand with his other one, watching as she took in the beauty of Kashmir through the window. Her eyes, no longer clouded by fear or anxiety, reflected the awe and tranquillity of the stunning landscape outside. The mountains and valleys of Kashmir seemed to soothe her, and Shubman felt a deep sense of satisfaction seeing her embrace the moment so fully.

As they journeyed to Gulmarg, Pashmina closed her eyes and let the raindrops fall on her face, feeling as if her soul was being cleansed. She removed her sunglasses and the cotton plugs from her ears, allowing the rain's soothing symphony to reach her. Watching the sky transform into a stunning array of colours under the rain

Shubman gently pulled Pashmina back into the car, closing the windows to keep her warm and dry. She didn't argue, instead resting her head on his shoulder as she watched the rain. Her gaze followed two droplets racing down the window, and she found herself rooting for the first one to win.

The second droplet won the race, causing Pashmina to pout slightly. Shubman chuckled, pulling her closer and teasingly said, "Well, I was rooting for the second one." As he held her, she curled up against him with a chuckle, she added, "Well, congratulations on the winning drop."

"Thanks, Mina," Shubman said teasingly, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. Pashmina closed her eyes and sighed contentedly, feeling his warm hands against the chill of the weather. As she nestled into the seat, the comfort of his touch lulled her to sleep.

Being in his arms made time feel like it flew by for Pashmina. She barely noticed how quickly it had passed until she felt herself being gently shaken.

"Mina, come on, we're here," Shubman said softly, rousing her from her sleep.

Pashmina stretched her arms and glanced out the window, noticing that the rain was still falling heavily. Despite the downpour, she could make out the villa standing in front of them.

"Why a villa for days?" she asked, curiosity evident in her sleepy voice and eyes.

Shubman smiled at her question, clearly enjoying her curiosity. "Well, first, it's about privacy. And second, hotel rooms just don't give the same homely feeling. Plus, there's another reason, but I'll tell you about that later. For now, come on," he said, opening the umbrella and guiding her out of the car with him.

Pashmina wrapped her arms around his waist, holding on tightly, while Shubman shielded her with one arm to keep her dry. As they stepped out into the rain, Pashmina giggled like a child, delighting in the sensation of splashing through small puddles. It was a joyful reminder of her inner child, a feeling she hadn't experienced in a long time.

Once they reached the entrance, their driver, who had been following them, unloaded their luggage and spoke with a distinct Kashmiri accent:

"Agar aapko kisi cheez ki zaroorat ho, to mujhe bataiye," he said, offering his help. (If you need anything, please let me know)

Shubman nodded appreciatively. "Thank you, we will," he replied, guiding Pashmina towards the villa.

Pashmina rubbed her hands, marvelling at the villa's Kashmiri architecture. The space featured intricately carved wooden ceilings and detailed latticework, with richly embroidered textiles adding vibrant touches. Polished walnut floors and traditional rugs completed the look, creating a cosy and elegant atmosphere that beautifully showcased Kashmiri craftsmanship.

She turned to Shubman, biting her lip and smiling with delight. Then, she launched herself into his arms, exclaiming, "This is so beautiful!"

Shubman wrapped his arms around her, holding her close as she took in the beauty of their surroundings. He chuckled softly at her reaction.

"I'm glad you think so," he said, his voice warm with affection. "I wanted this place to be special for you."

Pashmina looked up at him, her eyes sparkling. "It's perfect," she replied, still gazing around in wonder. "Thank you for bringing me here."

Shubman smiled and gently kissed the top of her head. "It's just the beginning. There's so much more to see and experience here."

Pashmina playfully ruffled his hair, her smile wide. "Well, if the rest of the trip is anything like this, I'm already thrilled."

Pashmina playfully ruffled his hair, her smile beaming. "Well, if the rest of the trip is anything like this, I'm already thrilled."

Before he could respond, she pouted and asked, "Why is your hair so rough?"

Shubman sighed, scratching the back of his head. "I haven't had time to take care of it properly with all the matches and travel," he explained. with a rueful smile.

Pashmina smiled and said, "Well, let's pamper you," as she began massaging his scalp with her fingers.

Shubman raised his eyebrows, surprised. "You're really going to take care of me like this?" he asked, clearly pleased with the idea.

Pashmina nodded, holding his hands. "There seems to be a balcony on the floor above," she said, looking through the open door. "Why don't you freshen up a bit? I'll give you a nice, relaxing champi (massage) when you're ready."

Shubman followed her gaze and saw the balcony through the open door. He smiled and nodded. "Alright, I'll be up there in a minute," he said, heading toward the stairs.

Pashmina watched Shubman head upstairs with excitement. She quickly moved to the upper floor, where she dried herself off from the rain. She then hurried to the balcony and set up a cosy spot with a few cushions on the couch and the floor below, creating a comfortable area for Shubman to sit and relax.

"I'm here," Shubman announced, stepping out onto the balcony shirtless and in just his shorts, ready for the massage.

Pashmina chuckled and waved him over. "Come on over, but cover your chest with something," she said with a playful tone. "I don't want you catching a cold."

Shubman grabbed a nearby blanket and draped it over his shoulders as he walked toward the cushioned area Pashmina had set up. He settled onto the floor, looking relaxed.

Pashmina smiled as she adjusted the cushions and prepared her massage oils. "Alright, let's get you comfortable," she said, motioning for him to sit back and relax.

Shubman leaned back, closing his eyes in anticipation. Pashmina squeezed some oil from the bottle into her hands, rubbing them together to warm and spread the oil. She then gently began massaging his scalp, her fingers working skillfully through his hair.

Shubman's lips parted in a relaxed sigh as he enjoyed the warm oil on his scalp and the cool breeze from the rain outside.

He opened his eyes, watching the rain fall outside as Pashmina carefully massaged every part of his scalp.

His eyes began to droop with heaviness as he felt himself drifting towards sleep. Just then, Pashmina's voice gently broke through, "That's it, we're done here."

He lazily looked up at her with a sleepy smile. "Are you sure?" he murmured. "I wouldn't mind going for a few more hours."

Pashmina chuckled softly, wiping her hands with a towel. "As tempting as that sounds, you'll turn into a puddle if we keep going."

Shubman stretched lazily, still smiling. "Maybe that's the plan," he joked, tilting his head to look at her. He gently pulled her hand forward and kissed her wrist. "I mean, if these hands keep doing what they're doing, I wouldn't mind turning into a puddle," he teased with a soft grin.

Pashmina blushed slightly, laughing as she gently pulled her hand away. "Well, I'm glad you're enjoying yourself," she said, standing up. "But if you turn into a puddle, who's going to help me explore the rest of this beautiful place?"

Shubman shrugged, standing up and draping a towel over Pashmina's lap. "I'll show you around, but let me get my beauty sleep first," he said, settling into the blanket and gazing out at the rain-kissed greenery.

Pashmina giggled and leaned forward to kiss his cheekbone. "Well, sleep tight, my princess," she said with a playful tone.

Shubman felt his heart leap at the unexpected gesture, like a frog hopping in the rain. He quickly composed himself, holding his heart metaphorically under the blanket, and turned to her with a mock-serious look. "Women," he said, narrowing his eyes. "I'm the prince of cricket, not a princess."

Pashmina giggled and teased, "Well, you're acting like a princess now."

"Well, I'm not," he said, blowing out his cheeks.

"Fine, fine," Pashmina said with a smile. "You're a prince."

Shubman grinned and gave a small bow. "Thank you, my lady," he said with a wink. "I'll try to live up to the title."

Pashmina playfully suggested, poking his dimples, "And I hope you find a princess soon too."

Shubman's dimples faded as soon as she said that. He nodded with a forced smile, turning away and cuddling his face into the blanket to hide his disappointment.

He always seemed to forget that winning Pashmina's heart was harder than fighting any battle.