The bright lights of the Mumbai studio shone down on Shubman Gill as he settled into his seat for a live interview.

The host, a well-known figure in sports journalism, was ready with questions about his stellar IPL season, India’s recent victories, and his future plans.

However, as was often the case, fans were as interested in the personal lives of their favorite cricketers as they were in their on-field exploits.

The conversation started off light.

“So, Shubman, what’s your secret to maintaining such consistency this year? You’ve been phenomenal!” the host asked, leaning forward.

Shubman smiled, a dimpled grin lighting up his face.

“Honestly, it’s all about the team environment and staying disciplined. Everyone around me—coaches, teammates—they all play a huge role.”

The discussion moved to cricket for a while before inevitably veering toward his personal life. The host’s tone turned playful.

“Now, Shubman, the million-dollar question—are you seeing anyone? The fans are dying to know!”

Shubman chuckled nervously, running a hand through his hair.

He’d been preparing for this, knowing it was only a matter of time before someone asked.

Supraja had encouraged him to be honest, though it still felt like a big step.

“Well,” he began, pausing to gather his thoughts, “since you asked… yes, I am seeing someone.”

The room seemed to buzz with excitement.

The host’s eyes widened, delighted by the scoop.

“Really? Care to tell us more? Who’s the lucky lady?”

Shubman took a deep breath and smiled, a warmth spreading through his expression as he thought of Supraja.

“Her name is Supraja. She’s… incredible. She’s smart, talented, and honestly, one of the strongest people I know. She’s based in Bengaluru now, working in the film industry.”

The audience erupted into cheers and claps as the host pressed further.

“Wow, that’s a big reveal! So, how did you two meet?”

Shubman laughed lightly. “We met through cricket, actually. She used to work with the BCCI. She was handling ads and social media stuff. We hit it off and, well, here we are. It’s been a little over a year now.”

The host grinned. “That’s amazing, Shubman! But how do you manage the long-distance thing? Mumbai and Bengaluru aren’t exactly next door.”

Shubman’s tone softened, his voice reflecting his emotions.

“It’s tough, not gonna lie. She works so hard, and I’m constantly traveling for cricket. But we make it work. Late-night video calls, quick visits whenever we can. She’s… worth it. She keeps me grounded.”

Meanwhile, in Bengaluru, Supraja was at her desk, her laptop open, reviewing scripts for a production she was managing.

The TV in the background played the interview, but her attention was on her work. That is, until she heard her name.

Her head snapped up, her eyes wide as she caught Shubman smiling and talking about her.

Her cheeks flushed, and she covered her face with her hands.

“Oh my God,” she muttered to herself. “He really did it.”

Her phone buzzed incessantly—friends, family, and colleagues were flooding her with messages.

“Shubman just confessed on live TV that you’re his girlfriend! Are you watching?” one text read from Abhi.

“Girl, you’re trending on Twitter right now!” Saumya wrote.

Back in the studio, the host continued. “That’s such a sweet story. Any message for her, Shubman? I’m sure she’s watching.”

Shubman chuckled, looking directly at the camera. “Soup, baby if you’re watching this… stop overworking yourself, okay? And remember, you’re amazing. I miss you, and I’ll see you soon.”

Supraja’s heart melted as she heard his words. She grabbed her phone, hesitating for a moment before calling him.

“Hey,” he said, picking up almost instantly.

“What the hell, Shubman!” she exclaimed, half-laughing, half-embarrassed. “You just told the entire country about us!”

“Of course I did,” he said, his voice teasing but affectionate. “I’m proud of us. Besides, it’s not like I can hide it anymore. Everyone’s been asking.”

Supraja sighed, though she couldn’t stop smiling. “You’re unbelievable.”

“And you’re adorable when you’re flustered,” he teased. “How’s work going, Miss Film Industry?”

“Stressful,” she admitted, leaning back in her chair. “But your little stunt just gave me a reason to smile.”

“Well, that’s the least I can do,” Shubman said. “Now, I want you to take a break, eat something, and get some rest. I’ll call you tonight.”

“You’re bossy,” she teased.

“Only because I care,” he shot back. “I love you, Soup.”

Her heart swelled. “I love you too, Shubman.”

As they hung up, Supraja shook her head, still reeling from the public reveal.

But deep down, she felt an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude for the man who wasn’t afraid to share their story with the world.

og soup speaks!

- here we have the 26th chapter!

- they're so cute AAHHH

- anyway comments on the chapter?

- hope y'all enjoyed it!

- love, supraja!