Queen

Ch 22 : After match celebrations

In the midst of the jubilant celebrations in the Indian dressing room, Smriti stood silently in a corner, a serene observer amidst the exuberant chaos unfolding around her. Her gaze was fixed on Harleen, who was at the center of the festivities, basking in the adulation of her teammates.

Harleen moved effortlessly through the crowd, her infectious laughter and warm smile drawing everyone towards her like moths to a flame. She exchanged hugs, high-fives, and hearty congratulations with each member of the team, her genuine joy radiating from every pore.Smriti couldn't help but admire the sight before her – the camaraderie, the shared triumph, the sheer happiness etched on each face. It was a beautiful tableau of unity and friendship, a testament to the bonds forged through countless hours of practice, perseverance, and mutual respect.

As she watched Harleen interact with her teammates, Smriti felt a swell of pride and affection for her friend. Despite the recent tensions between them, seeing Harleen's infectious spirit and genuine happiness brought a sense of warmth to Smriti's heart.

Finding smriti standing alone from the charade Harleen approached her.

Harleen: "Hey, I noticed you standing here. Thought you might want some cake."

Smriti: *Smiles faintly* "Thank you. That's thoughtful of you."

Harleen: *Sits beside Smriti* "Listen, I wanted to thank you for today. I know things got a bit intense out there, and I appreciate you for helping me keeping a cool head out there."

Smriti: *Nods* "It's nothing, Harleen. We're a team, right? We've got each other's backs."

Harleen: "Still, I owe you one. That hit you took... I was about to lose it, but you stopped me. You're always there when I need you."

Smriti: *Chuckles softly* "Well, what are friends for, right? Besides, you did amazing out there. That century was incredible."

Harleen: *Grins* "Thanks, Smriti. Means a lot coming from you."

Smriti: "Of course. You deserve all the praise. And hey, don't forget, we're in this together."

Harleen: *Nods, touched* "Yeah, we are. Thanks for being there."

Smriti: *Smiles warmly* "Anytime, Harleen. Anytime."

As they exchanged a few more words, a wave of realization washed over Harleen. Seeing Smriti getting hit by the ball, seeing her spit blood, had shattered her composure. She couldn't bear the thought of causing Smriti any more pain, not intentionally. The love she felt for Smriti, it was undeniable, and she couldn't continue to hurt her like this.In that moment, amidst the joy of victory, Harleen made a silent promise to herself. She vowed to do whatever it took to make Smriti smile again, to be the friend she needed and deserved. If Smriti wanted her friendship, Harleen would give it to her wholeheartedly.

Meanwhile, Smriti felt a glimmer of hope as she witnessed the subtle shift in Harleen's demeanor. The brief exchange, the offer of cake, it was a glimpse of the old Harleen she once knew. Perhaps her efforts to reconnect with her friend were starting to pay off.

Deciding to let things unfold naturally, Smriti resolved to be patient. Instead of pushing Harleen, she would allow their friendship to evolve at its own pace. And as she watched Harleen mingle with the rest of the team, a sense of optimism filled her heart. Maybe, just maybe, their bond could be restored.