If you ask Aditi what exactly she must be feeling right now, her answer would be "everything". And that is exactly what she is feeling. Aditi's mind since morning has been nothing but filled with all sorts of emotions, ranging from anxiety, fear. Remorse, to anticipation and happiness.

It had only been a day since her return, a decision she initially hesitated to embrace but now wouldn't trade for anything. Last night, amidst the hospital visits and the emotional reunions, she had encountered the Gills. Despite nearly a decade apart, the familiarity with Mumma and Papa Gill and the sisterly bond with Shahneel instantly made her feel at home. In both the Arora and Gill households, being the youngest had always meant being cherished and protected.

However, her excitement to meet Shubman, whom she had hoped to see yesterday, was met with disappointment when she learned he had an interview scheduled. Unbeknownst to her, Shubman was grappling with his own mix of emotions. Though he projected a tough exterior, the prospect of meeting Aditi after so long had left him in a whirlwind of nerves and excitement. He had used the interview as a pretext to gather his thoughts and steel himself for their reunion.

*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚

The first rays of dawn peeked through Aditi's curtains, gently nudging her awake. She yawned and stretched, feeling the remnants of a restless night cling to her thoughts. Padding quietly across the familiar creaks of her floor, she made her way to the kitchen.

Aditi shuffled in her kitchen, her mind still wrapped in the haze of sleep and yesterday's unexpected events. She absently reached for the coffee grounds, her fingers brushing against the familiar packaging. As she waited for the coffee maker to do its magic, her thoughts drifted back to the whirlwind of emotions from the day before.

The doorbell rang, jolting her from her reverie. She hesitated, wondering who it could be so early in the morning. Peeking through the peephole, her heart skipped a beat as she caught sight of Shubman standing outside, looking as handsome and confident as ever.

A rush of emotions flooded her-surprise, delight, and a hint of nervousness. She hastily adjusted her pajamas and fluffed her hair, then opened the door with a mixture of excitement and curiosity. The moment Shubman stepped into Aditi's living room, their eyes locked in a mixture of surprise, nostalgia, and unspoken emotions. It had been five long years since they last saw each other, yet the bond they once shared seemed to hover palpably in the air, like a thread waiting to be picked up again.

"Shubman," Aditi's voice trembled slightly as she spoke his name, her heart racing with a rush of memories and unanswered questions. "Hey, Aditi," Shubman replied softly, his eyes lingering on her face, trying to reconcile the girl he remembered with the woman standing before him. Time had left its mark, yet beneath the changes, he recognized the familiar spark that had drawn him to her years ago.

*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚

"You look..." he started, searching for the right words, "Different." Her cheeks flushed faintly, a mixture of embarrassment and gratitude washing over her. "Yeah," she murmured, a shy smile tugging at her lips, "the modeling world does change you."

Shubman nodded, his gaze thoughtful. He noticed how she had grown thinner, her frame more delicate than he remembered. It was a stark contrast to the vibrant, carefree girl he once knew, yet he could see the strength and resilience that had shaped her in the intervening years "It's...it's what they expect," Aditi continued, her voice tinged with a hint of resignation. "Beauty standards and all that."

Shubman's expression softened with understanding. He had seen glimpses of the pressure and scrutiny she must have faced in her pursuit of a modeling career. "I can imagine," he replied gently. "But remember, it's who you are inside that matters." She met his gaze, gratitude and vulnerability shining in her eyes. "Thank you, Shubman."

He smiled warmly, wanting to ease any discomfort he might have caused. "You're still the same Aditi I knew," he reassured her. "Just a bit... different on the outside." Her smile widened, touched by his sincerity. "And you're still the same Shubman," she replied softly. "Always knowing the right thing to say."

*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚

As they stood there, the weight of their shared past mingled with the uncertainties of the present. Despite the changes and the passage of time, their connection felt as real and as comforting as it had always been. The silence that followed was filled with unspoken conversations and stolen glances. Each moment seemed pregnant with the weight of their shared history, the laughter they once shared, and the secrets they had confided in each other.

"I didn't expect to see you today," Aditi finally broke the silence, her voice tinged with both surprise and a hint of longing. Shubman nodded, his gaze softening as he met her eyes. "I didn't expect you to be here either. But I'm glad I ran into you."

Their eyes held for a moment, speaking volumes without words-regrets of lost time, the ache of distance, and the hope of reconnection. Shubman shrugged nonchalantly, though his eyes betrayed a hint of vulnerability. "Just came to borrow some milk, didn't think I'd run into you." Aditi chuckled softly, a warmth spreading through her chest. "Well, it's a pleasant surprise." "Yeah, it is," he agreed, his gaze softening as he looked at her.

Aditi gestured towards the kitchen counter where a fresh carton of milk sat. "Here you go," she said with a playful grin, handing Shubman the milk. He accepted it with a grateful nod, their fingers brushing briefly in the exchange. As he turned to place it on the counter, Aditi couldn't help but notice the ease with which they fell into their old banter.

"So," she continued, her voice light yet tinged with curiosity, "what brings you to my doorstep today? Milk emergency?" Shubman chuckled, a lopsided smile playing on his lips. "Something like that," he teased, glancing back at her. "Actually, I thought I'd take the chance to catch up. It's been too long." Aditi nodded, a softness in her expression. "It really has," she agreed, a rush of warmth flooding her at the simplicity of his gesture.

*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚

They leaned against the kitchen counter, the familiarity of their surroundings enveloping them in a cocoon of shared memories and unspoken feelings.

"I'm sorry about yesterday," Shubman began, his voice carrying a trace of sincerity. "I didn't expect things to turn out like that." Aditi shook her head gently, her gaze meeting his with understanding. "It's okay, Shubman. Life has a way of surprising us, doesn't it?" He nodded, his eyes searching hers for reassurance. "It does. But I'm glad I saw you. It reminded me of... simpler times." Aditi smiled softly, feeling a tug at her heartstrings. "Me too," she admitted, a mixture of nostalgia and gratitude welling up inside her.

As they stood there, the weight of their shared past mingled with the uncertainties of the present. Despite the changes and the passage of time, their connection felt as real and as comforting as it had always been. Each moment seemed pregnant with the weight of their shared history, the laughter they once shared, and the secrets they had confided in each other.

"I missed this," Aditi confessed quietly, breaking the silence once more. "Talking to you like this." Shubman's gaze softened, a genuine smile spreading across his face. "Me too, Aditi. It feels like no time has passed at all." They shared a moment of quiet understanding, their eyes speaking volumes about the unspoken bond that had weathered the test of time.

*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚

Aditi shifted nervously, unsure how to navigate the emotions swirling inside her. "My mom insisted I stay home today. After the long journey and everything with dad..." Understanding dawned in Shubman's eyes, his voice gentle yet firm. "Your mom's right, Aditi. You need to take care of yourself." She nodded, her gaze flickering with gratitude and vulnerability. "Yeah, it's just... hard being away from him right now." "I get it," Shubman replied softly, his heart going out to her in that moment. "But you being here, it matters. To your family, and to yourself."

Their words hung in the air, a bridge between their past and uncertain future. As Shubman turned to leave, a pang of reluctance gripped Aditi's heart. "Thank you, Shubman," she whispered, her voice filled with unspoken emotion. He turned back to her, a wistful smile playing on his lips. "Anytime, Aditi. Take care of yourself."

As Shubman reached for the door handle, a sudden impulse made him hesitate. He turned back to Aditi, his expression earnest yet tentative. "Aditi," he began, his voice softer now, "would you... would you like to come with me to the Gurudwara today? My cousins are going, and I thought... maybe you'd like to join us."

Aditi looked at him, surprised yet touched by his invitation. A mix of emotions played across her face-gratitude, curiosity, and a flicker of hesitation. "I..." she started, her mind racing with thoughts and uncertainties. After a brief pause, she smiled gently. "Yes, Shubman. I would like that."

Relief washed over his features, a genuine smile spreading across his face. "Great! It's a plan then. I'll swing by at 1pm to pick you up?" She nodded, feeling a sense of anticipation mingling with the lingering emotions from their unexpected reunion. "Yes, that sounds good."

They exchanged a final glance filled with unspoken understanding before Shubman bid her goodnight and finally left. Aditi watched him go, a sense of warmth and hope settling in her heart.As she closed the door behind him, she couldn't help but feel that perhaps this reunion, amidst all its awkwardness and unexpected emotions, was the beginning of something new-a journey that could lead them both to rediscover not only each other but also themselves in ways they had never imagined.

*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚

Humming the tunes of her favorite song, Aditi eagerly dialed Gigi's number, her heart racing with excitement after catching up with her brother and getting updates about her dad. As the phone rang, she couldn't wait to spill the beans about her interaction with Shubman and their upcoming plans together.

"GIGI!" Aditi exclaimed, her voice pitching up, startling Gigi on the other end. "Woah, woah, cool down girl. What's up?" Gigi greeted her, her tone playful yet curious. "You will not believe what happened!!!" Aditi burst out, her face betraying her bubbling excitement that she would never admit. "Shubman showed up at my door this morning, can you believe it? After all these years!" Gigi gasped in delight. "No way! What did he say? she asked eagerly.

Aditi's smile widened as she recounted the morning's events. "He was so charming and confident, just like before. And get this- he casually invited me to join him at the Gurudwara later today." Gigi squealed with joy. "That's amazing, Aditi! It sounds like fate brought you two back together." "Yeah, it really feels like that," Aditi agreed, her voice tinged with a mixture of nostalgia and excitement.

*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚

"Before I forget," Gigi continued, her tone softening, "how's your dad doing? I've been thinking about him." Aditi's expression softened. "He's stable for now, Gigi. Thanks for asking. Your best wishes mean a lot to me." "Of course, Aditi. Sending all my love and prayers to him," Gigi replied warmly. "Now, spill all the details about Shubman. I want to hear everything!"

Aditi chuckled, feeling grateful for Gigi's infectious enthusiasm. "Well, after catching up on old times, he casually invited me to join him at the Gurudwara today. Can you believe it? It's like a movie plot!" "That's so sweet," Gigi cooed. "I knew he had a soft spot for you."

"He really does," Aditi admitted, her voice softening. "It's been such a whirlwind. I never expected this." "Just enjoy it, Aditi. You deserve some happiness," Gigi reassured her.

"But hey, do you think he might have a girlfriend or something?" Gigi revered back. Aditi hesitated, her excitement tempered by the thought. "I don't know, Gigi. It crossed my mind. But why would he invite me if he did?" "He wouldn't," Gigi stated matter-of-factly. "If he's inviting his ex out, it means he's still interested. Unless he's a total red flag." Aditi nodded slowly, contemplating Gigi's words. "You're right. Shubman isn't like that. He's always been straightforward and genuine."

"Exactly," Gigi agreed, her tone reassuring. "Trust your gut, Aditi. If he's reaching out to you like this, there's something there." Aditi smiled gratefully, feeling a weight lift off her shoulders. "Thanks, Gigi. I needed to hear that."

"Haha, so is it like a date?" Gigi teased, her voice laced with playful curiosity. Aditi chuckled nervously on the other end of the line. "No, no," she quickly denied, trying to suppress a smile. "It's just a friendly outing, and his cousins will also be there." Gigi let out an exaggerated sigh. "Aww, come on, Aditi! It totally sounds like a date to me. I mean, showing up at your doorstep, inviting you to a place of worship... That's straight out of a romantic movie!"

Aditi rolled her eyes playfully. "Gigi, don't start. It's not like that. We're just catching up as friends." Her friend's skepticism was evident. "Uh-huh, sure. Friendly outing with a handsome guy who's clearly still into you? I've seen enough rom-coms to know where this is going."

Aditi laughed, unable to deny the excitement bubbling inside her. "Okay, fine. Maybe it's a little more than just friendly. But seriously, his cousins are coming too. It's not a date."

Gigi sighed dramatically again, but this time with a hint of amusement. "Alright, Aditi. Whatever you say. Just promise me you'll have fun and keep me updated on all the juicy details! "Deal," Aditi agreed, feeling grateful for Gigi's unwavering support and humor. "Thanks for always keeping me grounded, even in my movie-like moments."

"That's what friends are for," Gigi replied warmly. "Now go get ready for your not-a-date friendly outing with Mr. Charming. And remember, if he tries any cheesy moves, you have my permission to roll your eyes. "Aditi giggled, feeling lighter and more excited than she had in a long time.

*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚

With promises of future updates and shared laughter, the call ended, leaving Aditi with renewed confidence and excitement for the day ahead with Shubman.

Humming the tunes of her favorite song, Aditi bustled around her room, a mix of nerves and excitement propelling her forward. She pulled out a traditional salwar suit from her closet, its vibrant colors and delicate embroidery reminding her of celebrations and family gatherings from years past. As she slipped into the outfit, she couldn't help but smile at the familiarity and comfort it brought.

Adjusting the dupatta over her shoulders, Aditi checked herself in the mirror, feeling a rush of nerves at the thought of seeing Shubman again after so many years. Just as she was applying a touch of kohl to her eyes, her phone buzzed with a text notification. It was from Shubman.

"Hey Adi, I'm reaching in 10 minutes.😊"

Her heart skipped a beat as she read the message. Time seemed to accelerate as she hurriedly finished getting ready, smoothing down her hair and slipping on a pair of earrings that added a subtle sparkle to her appearance. With a final glance in the mirror, she took a deep breath, gathering her composure before heading out to meet Shubman.

As she descended the stairs, her brother Sid greeted her in the hallway. Sid had just returned from the hospital, where he had been looking after their father. Concern etched his face as he saw Aditi dressed up.

"Hey, Aditi," Sid said with a hint of worry in his voice. "You're going out?" Aditi nodded, trying to reassure him. "Yeah, just meeting Shubman. He invited me to the Gurudwara."

Sid's expression softened slightly, though his protective instincts were still evident. "Just be careful, okay? We don't know what his intentions are after all these years." "I will, Sid," Aditi replied, appreciating his concern. "It's just catching up. His cousins will be there too."

Sid nodded, albeit reluctantly. "Alright. Just keep me updated, and let me know if you need anything." Aditi smiled gratefully, touched by her brother's protectiveness. "Thanks, Sid. I'll text you when I'm on my way back."

With a reassuring pat on her shoulder, Sid watched as Aditi headed out to meet Shubman. She found him waiting by his car as promised, looking effortlessly handsome in a simple kurta pajama. Aditi's nerves eased as she approached him, feeling a wave of familiarity and comfort wash over her.

"Hey Aditi," Shubman greeted warmly, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiled. "Hi Shubman," she replied, returning his smile with a mixture of excitement and relief. After greeting his cousins Aditi sat in the passenger seat a smile permanently etched on her her face.

As they embarked on the short journey to the Gurudwara, Aditi couldn't shake the feeling that this day was more than just a chance encounter. With Shubman's reassuring presence beside her, a question lingered in her mind, whispering softly: Could this reunion be the start of something new and unexpected?

aditi.arora has posted!

📸: shubmangill

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w/ the one and only shubmangill

📸jugnuuuu_13

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panipuris with the best jugnuuu_13 [shubman refused to break his diet]

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aditi.arora: this is what comfort feels like.

comments:

athiyashetty: YOU ARE BACK AND U DIDNT TELL US???? @anushkasharma we have been betrayed

shahneelgill: MAJOR FOMO rn

gigihadid: THATS MY BESTFRIEND!!!

sidhant_rora: you better behave.

shubmangill: a guy gotta stay healthy.

jugnuuu_13: The BESTEST

username1: OMG A CROSSOVER WE DIDNT KNOW WE NEEDED!!!!

username7: she looks really cute with shubman

username3: she's from india? omg i didnt know that

username5: there is an event tomorrow, is she not attending it?

username10: wannabe

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➺ CHAI PE CHARCHA WITH ARIA~

3037 words phew

had so much doing this one!

also shubman won his first match as an international captain! i am so proud of my baby.

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yours only,

aria 😼