Abhi was meticulously working on the interiors of Shubman Gill's house, her focus entirely on the colour swatches and samples she had spread out before her. 

The living room was in a state of transformation, with new furniture pieces arriving and paint samples adorning the walls. 

The light streaming in through the large windows highlighted the vibrant colours she was considering, each swatches a potential element in the final design.

"Alright, so maybe this blue for the accent wall?" she mused aloud to herself, holding up a swatch. "But then what about the sofa? Oh, wait, no. The rug! Ugh, focus, Abhi, focus!"

As she carefully examined a particularly striking shade of blue, she stepped back without looking and bumped into someone behind her. Startled, she spun around, the box of colour swatches slipping from her hands and landing squarely on the person's foot.

"Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry!" Abhi exclaimed, her eyes wide with embarrassment. "I swear, I didn't mean to—"

The person let out a sharp yelp, clutching their foot. "Ouch! Watch where you're going next time!" he grumbled, hopping slightly on one foot.

Abhi quickly knelt to gather the scattered swatches, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "Shit! Shit! Shit!" she muttered under her breath. 

When she looked up, she found herself face-to-face with Ishan Kishan, who was still wincing in pain but wearing a familiar mischievous grin.

"Ishan! I didn't see you there. Are you okay?" she asked, concern etched on her face as she scrambled to pick up the fallen swatches. "Please tell me I didn't break your foot."

Ishan chuckled, still holding his foot. "Yeah, yeah, I'll survive. But seriously, that box felt like a ton of bricks," he said, trying to make light of the situation.

Abhi finally managed to gather the last of the swatches and stood up, offering him an apologetic smile. "I'm really sorry. I was just so absorbed in these colours. Didn't expect anyone to be standing right behind me." She then mumbled to herself, "Who stands right behind someone in a workspace? So impractical."

Ishan waved it off, still smiling. "No worries, Abhi. It's not every day you get hit with a box of colour swatches. Adds some excitement to the day."

Abhi laughed, feeling a bit more at ease. "Well, I'm glad you have a sense of humour about it. What brings you here, anyway?"

Ishan shrugged, leaning against the wall. "Just dropping by to see how the place is coming along. Shubman mentioned you were doing some amazing work here. Thought I'd check it out for myself."

Abhi felt a surge of pride at the compliment. "Thanks, Ishan. It's been a fun project. Shubman has great taste, and he's given me a lot of creative freedom." 

"Unlike some clients who micromanage everything. God, that mustard yellow fiasco!?"

Ishan nodded, looking around appreciatively. "It definitely shows. The place looks fantastic. So, what's next on your agenda?"

Abhi glanced at her plans, feeling reinvigorated. "Well, I need to finalize these colour choices today and start coordinating with the painters. Then, it's on to furniture placement and finishing touches. There's still a lot to do, but it's coming together." 

"If I can just decide between 'Ocean Breeze' and 'Misty Morning'. Why are blues so complicated?"

Ishan grinned, clearly impressed. "Sounds like you've got everything under control. Mind if I stick around and watch the master at work?"

Abhi laughed, shaking her head. "Not at all. Just try to stay out of the way of flying swatches," she teased, earning a laugh from Ishan.

As she continued her work, Ishan hung around, offering occasional commentary and jokes. His presence added a lively energy to the room, and Abhi found herself enjoying the company. 

Despite the initial mishap, the day turned out to be productive and filled with laughter, making the task of transforming Shubman's home even more enjoyable.

"Okay, focus, Abhi," she said, picking up another swatch. "Is this the right shade for the accent wall? Or maybe... no, no, stick to the plan. What plan? I have a plan, right? Oh, why is this so hard?"

"This is a very confusing, very colourful zone."

As Abhi resumed her work, Ishan leaned casually against the wall, watching her sort through the colour swatches and samples with practised precision. The living room was beginning to take shape, and the new design elements starting to blend harmoniously.

"So, how did you get into interior design?" Ishan asked, genuinely curious.

Abhi glanced up, pausing for a moment. "I've always loved creating spaces that feel unique and comfortable. I started with small projects for friends and family, and it just grew from there. It's amazing how a room can transform with the right colours and furniture."

Ishan nodded thoughtfully. "I can see that. You've got a real talent for it."

"Thanks, Ishan," Abhi replied, smiling warmly. She picked up a paint swatch and held it against the wall, envisioning the final look. 

"What do you think of this colour for the accent wall? It's called Ocean Breeze."

Ishan stepped closer, examining the swatch. "I like it. It's calming but still has a bit of energy to it. Fits Shubman's style perfectly."

Abhi beamed. "That's exactly what I was going for. Thanks for the feedback."

As she continued to work, Shubman walked into the room, noticing the lively interaction between Abhi and Ishan. 

"Hey, what's going on here?" he asked with a grin, clearly amused.

Abhi turned to face Shubman, her eyes lighting up. "Just finalizing some colour choices and getting Ishan's expert opinion," she said with a playful smile.

Shubman raised an eyebrow, glancing at Ishan. "Expert opinion, huh? I'm sure he's been very helpful."

Ishan shrugged, trying to look modest. "What can I say? I've got a knack for this stuff."

Shubman laughed, shaking his head. "Well, I trust Abhi's judgment completely. The place is looking amazing already."

"Thanks, Shubman," Abhi replied, feeling a sense of accomplishment. 

"I think we're almost ready to start the painting. Just need to confirm a few more details."

"Great," Shubman said, looking around appreciatively. "I can't wait to see the final result."

As Abhi continued to work, Shubman and Ishan settled into the living room, chatting and occasionally offering their input. The atmosphere was relaxed and filled with friendly banter, making the task at hand feel less like work and more like a collaborative effort among friends.

Later in the afternoon, Abhi took a step back to review her progress. The colour swatches were decided, and the room was ready for the next phase. 

"Alright, I think we're all set. I'll coordinate with the painters to start tomorrow," she announced, feeling a sense of satisfaction.

Shubman smiled, clearly pleased. "Sounds perfect. Thanks, Abhi. You've done an incredible job."

Abhi nodded, packing up her supplies. "It's been a pleasure working on this project. And thanks for the company, Ishan," she added with a wink.

Ishan grinned, giving her a thumbs up. "Anytime. Just call if you need more expert opinions."

Abhi laughed, waving goodbye as she headed out the door, feeling inspired by the day's work and the friendly interactions. 

As Abhi left the house, Shubman turned to Ishan with a mischievous glint in his eye. 

"So, expert opinions, huh? Since when did you become an interior design guru?" he teased, leaning back against the couch with a smirk.

Ishan rolled his eyes, but couldn't help but smile. "Hey, I was just trying to be helpful. Besides, I have a good eye for these things," he retorted, stretching out and relaxing.

Shubman chuckled, shaking his head. "Sure, sure. But I couldn't help but notice you hanging around a bit more than usual. Are you sure it was the interior design that caught your interest?"

Ishan feigned innocence, his grin growing wider. "What are you suggesting, Gill? I was just appreciating good craftsmanship."

Shubman laughed, not letting up. "Uh-huh. Good craftsmanship or a certain interior designer? You seemed pretty eager to offer your help."

Ishan laughed, giving Shubman a playful shove. "Alright, alright, you caught me. Abhi's pretty cool, and it was fun chatting with her. No harm in that, right?"

Shubman grinned, leaning closer as if sharing a secret. "No harm at all. But just so you know, I did see you flinch when she bumped into you. And you were blushing, my friend."

Ishan groaned, rubbing his forehead in mock frustration. "Okay, fine, maybe I was a little flustered. She did drop a box on my foot, after all."

Shubman laughed heartily, enjoying the rare opportunity to tease Ishan. "Well, if that's what it takes to get your attention, I'll start carrying boxes around too."

Ishan shook his head, laughing along. "You're impossible, Gill. But seriously, Abhi's got talent. She's doing an amazing job with your place."

Shubman nodded, his tone turning more sincere. "Yeah, she really is. I'm lucky to have her working on this. The place already feels more like home."

Ishan smiled, appreciating the genuine moment. "Absolutely. She's got a great eye for detail. And who knows, maybe we'll see more of her around."

Shubman raised an eyebrow, the teasing glint back in his eye. "Is that wishful thinking, Ishan?"

Ishan laughed, shaking his head. "Maybe. But for now, let's focus on getting this place ready. We've got a lot to do before the season starts."

Shubman nodded, clapping Ishan on the back. "You got it. Thanks for sticking around today. It was fun."

Ishan smiled, feeling the camaraderie that made their friendship special. "Anytime, Shubman. Let's make this place as awesome as your game on the field."

Saumya sat in her cramped trailer, her makeup half removed, remnants of her costume scattered around like debris from a storm. It had been a gruelling day on set, the kind that left her drained and craving a release. 

She reached for her phone with a sigh, fingers tapping impatiently as she dialled Supraja and Abhi simultaneously, initiating a conference call.

Supraja answered first, the sound of bustling activity in the background. "Hey Saumya, what's up?" she greeted, her voice hurried yet eager.

Before Saumya could respond, Abhi chimed in, her tone reflective of her earlier interactions with Shubman and Ishan. "Hey, Saumya! How was the shoot? Did you wrap up okay?"

Saumya exhaled loudly, frustration and fatigue evident in her voice. 

"Fuck, don't even get me started. It was a shitshow from start to finish. The director was on my case the entire time, the crew couldn't get their shit together, and now I'm stuck in this goddamn trailer with a mountain of makeup that won't come off," she ranted, her words rapid and tinged with annoyance.

Supraja winced, trying to console her. "Damn, that sounds rough. Are you okay though? Need anything?"

Abhi interjected with concern, "Maybe some wine? Or a hot bath?"

Saumya scoffed, running a hand through her dishevelled hair. "Wine won't fix this mess. I just needed to vent, okay? Fuck, I hate these days."

Supraja and Abhi exchanged glances over the call, silently understanding Saumya's frustration. 

Supraja spoke up, trying to lighten the mood. "Well, at least we're not dealing with makeup that won't budge. I'm buried in sketches and campaign ideas for the World Cup," she admitted, her voice slightly muffled as she shuffled through papers.

Abhi chuckled, sensing the opportunity to shift focus. "And I've been redesigning Shubman Gill's entire house. I swear, that guy has the messiest taste in décor," she quipped, arranging some swatches on the table.

Saumya sighed, a hint of amusement cutting through her irritation. "Fuck, I wish I had your problems right now. But seriously, guys, thanks for letting me bitch. I needed that."

Supraja nodded, offering support. "Anytime, Saumya. We've all been there. You'll bounce back tomorrow."

Abhi chimed in with a teasing tone, "Just make sure you don't punch the director in the face tomorrow. Wouldn't want headlines about that."

Saumya laughed, the tension easing from her shoulders. "No promises, Abhi. But seriously, I appreciate you both. I'll survive this shitshow, as always."

Saumya leaned back in her trailer chair, frustration still simmering beneath the surface despite her friends' attempts to lighten the mood. "You know what's fucking annoying?" she began, her voice tinged with exasperation. 

"It's not just today. It's every damn day. The industry, the people, the goddamn expectations."

Supraja and Abhi listened intently, knowing when Saumya got on a roll, it was best to let her vent.

"I mean, do they think we're robots or something? Just turn on the performance switch and boom, magic happens?" Saumya continued, her words tumbling out in a rush. 

"They don't see the hours of prep, the emotional toll, the fucking sacrifices we make just to deliver. And for what? A few moments of screen time and a paycheck?"

Abhi nodded sympathetically, her own frustrations with demanding clients and design challenges resonating with Saumya's rant. 

"It's like they forget we're human beings with feelings, with lives outside of their damn projects," she chimed in, her voice firm.

"Yeah, and don't get me started on the gossip and the bullshit politics," Saumya added bitterly. 

"One wrong move, and you're fucking blacklisted. It's a fucking minefield out there, and we're expected to navigate it with a smile."

Supraja sighed, feeling the weight of Saumya's words. "It's unfair, but you're stronger than all of that bullshit, Saumya. You've proven it time and again."

Saumya smiled ruefully, appreciating the support. "Thanks, Supraja. Sorry for dumping all this on you guys. I just needed to let it out before I lose my mind."

Abhi chuckled softly. "No worries, Saumya. We've all been there. You're not alone in this madness."

As the conversation shifted to lighter topics, the bond between the three friends grew stronger, each finding comfort in the shared understanding of their tumultuous industries.

After a while, as the call wound down, Saumya sighed deeply, feeling a sense of relief. "Thanks again, guys. I needed that more than I realized."

In the hotel lounge, Shubman, Rohit, Ishan, KL Rahul, Virat, and the other players lounged comfortably on plush couches and armchairs. 

The atmosphere was relaxed, the air filled with banter and camaraderie after a satisfying practice session. Beers were cracked open, and snacks were scattered around as they unwound from the day's training.

Ishan, always the instigator of mischief, threw a handful of peanuts at Shubman. "So, Shubman, still thinking about Supraja, huh?" he teased, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Shubman's cheeks coloured slightly, but he laughed it off. "What can I say? She's got this... magic about her. Did you see those sketches she was showing me earlier? Pure talent," he admitted, sipping his drink casually.

Rohit, always the cool and collected one, chimed in with a grin. "Magic, huh? Sounds serious, mate."

Shubman shrugged, trying to play it cool. "Nah, just impressed by her work, that's all. Plus, she's got this smile..." He trailed off, realizing he might be revealing too much.

Ishan nudged him playfully. "A smile, huh? So, when's the wedding?"

The others laughed, enjoying Shubman's rare moment of vulnerability. KL Rahul, ever the smooth talker, joined in. "I hear she's got you wrapped around her finger already. First day and you're smitten."

Shubman rolled his eyes, but couldn't hide the grin. "Alright, alright, enough about me. What about you, Ishan? Abhi's got you hooked, doesn't she?"

Ishan chuckled, his expression turning fond. "Yeah, she's something else. Did you see the way she handled those color swatches today? Total pro."

Virat, who had been quietly listening, raised an eyebrow teasingly. "Color swatches, huh? That's how she won you over?"

Ishan nodded, his tone earnest. "It's not just that. She's got this... energy, you know? And her laugh? Infectious."

Rohit smirked, leaning back comfortably. "Looks like we've got a couple of hopeless romantics in the team now. Who would've thought?"

Hardik and Shreyas strolled into the lounge area, their presence immediately injecting more energy into the room. Hardik, with his characteristic swagger, and Shreyas, ever the laid-back strategist, joined the group with easy smiles and greetings.

"What's up, boys?" Hardik greeted, clapping Shubman on the shoulder. "Planning world domination?"

Shubman chuckled, gesturing to the scattered snacks and drinks. "More like dominating the snack table right now."

Ishan, always ready to stir things up, leaned forward with a sly grin. "Speaking of domination, did you hear about Shubman's new crush?"

Shubman groaned, shaking his head. "Oh, here we go again."

Hardik raised an eyebrow, a knowing smirk on his face. "New crush, huh? Who's the lucky lady this time?"

Rohit, unable to contain his amusement, jumped in. "Supraja, the new visual genius. Shubman here can't stop raving about her sketches."

Shubman shifted uncomfortably, trying to steer the conversation away. "Come on, guys. It's not like that."

Shreyas, always observant, chimed in with a teasing tone. "Oh, it definitely sounds like that. First day and you're already smitten? She must be something special."

Ishan nodded enthusiastically. "She is. You should see him blush every time her name comes up."

Hardik laughed heartily, clapping his hands. "Looks like we've got a love story brewing in our midst. Shubman, my man, any plans to woo this Supraja?"

Shubman rubbed the back of his neck, feeling the heat rise to his cheeks. "I... uh... I haven't thought about it."

Ishan, not letting up, teased, "Oh, come on. You were practically floating on air after meeting her this morning."

Virat, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up with a grin. "Looks like Shubman's got competition, though. Ishan here seems pretty taken with Abhi."

Ishan nodded enthusiastically, his smile widening. "Yeah, she's amazing. Talented, funny, beautiful... What's not to like?"

Shreyas chuckled, nudging Hardik playfully. "Looks like we've got two love-struck rookies on the team."

Hardik raised his hands in mock surrender. "Hey, I'm just here for the popcorn. This love story's better than any Bollywood drama."

Rohit, with his characteristic wit, leaned back in his chair and grinned at Shubman. "So, when are you planning to show Supraja your world-class batting technique?"

Shubman chuckled nervously, trying to play it cool. "Maybe I'll let her handle the visuals while I handle the batting. Keep things professional, you know?"

Ishan, not one to miss a beat, added with a smirk, "Oh, come on, Shubman. We all saw how you were staring at her during practice. You can't hide that spark in your eyes."

Shubman rolled his eyes, but couldn't hide the slight blush creeping up his neck. "Alright, alright, enough about me. What about you, Ishan? Abhi's got you under her spell too, huh?"

Ishan grinned unabashedly. "Hey, she's got talent, looks, and personality. What's not to like?"

Hardik, always ready to stir the pot, chimed in with a playful jab. "Ishan, my man, if you keep gushing like this, you might just have to write her a love poem."

Ishan laughed, raising his hands in mock defence. "Hey, I'm just appreciating her skills, okay? It's not every day you meet someone who can turn a room into a masterpiece."

Shreyas, ever the calm voice of reason, interjected with a smile. "Well, it sounds like both of you have found your muses. Who knows, maybe Supraja and Abhi will inspire us to victory in the World Cup."

Virat, who had been quietly observing the banter, finally spoke up with a grin. "I think we should start taking bets on who confesses their crush first."

The room erupted in laughter, the tension from their rigorous training session melting away in the camaraderie of shared jokes and good-natured teasing. 

As the night progressed, the players continued to enjoy their time together in the hotel lounge, the atmosphere buzzing with camaraderie and anticipation for the upcoming matches. 

Amidst the banter and laughter, the topic of Supraja and Abhi continued to surface, weaving through their conversations like a playful undercurrent.

Shubman, trying to steer the conversation away from his crush, gestured towards the TV screen showing highlights from past matches. "Alright, enough about my nonexistent love life. Let's talk strategy. How do we tackle Australia's bowling attack?"

Ishan grinned mischievously, leaning back in his chair. "Fine, fine. But just so you know, I've already started drafting my first love letter to Abhi."

Hardik, ever the provocateur, chuckled and raised an eyebrow. "Oh really? Care to share a preview?"

Ishan shook his head, laughing. "Nice try, Hardik. That's for her eyes only."

Virat, always the captain both on and off the field, redirected the conversation with a grin. "Alright, jokes aside. We've got a tough series ahead of us. Let's focus on what we need to do to win."

The players nodded, their expressions shifting to a more serious demeanour as they discussed strategies, reviewed game footage, and shared insights from their recent practice sessions.

og supraja speaks!

- And here we have the second chapter of The Prophecy!

- it was so weird actually to write the boys talking about my character like, why would they even?

- and anyway, Ishan and Shubman both have crushes. [ just for the book. that's never gonna happen irl ]

- and saumya poor bby is stressed out too much

- anyway do comment on how the chapter was.

- love, soup.