The Googly of Fate||ICT IMAGINE||

The Six, the Sketch, and the Slightly Cringey Nicknames

For the one who inspires me to write, guys, check out her books. Yes books. If you like my stories, you will definitely love her stories-  unsaidwordsmusingsx

*****

Sana, a corporate employee, found herself immersed in the tranquility of a small park, enjoying her vacation. The scenic view captivated her, and she instinctively reached for her paints and brushes, a cherished hobby often neglected due to her demanding job. As she poured her focus onto the canvas, a gruff voice startled her.

"You are a painter?"

Without looking up, she curtly replied, "No."

Intrigued, the voice's owner settled beside her, his gaze fixed on her artwork. A jolt of recognition shot through Sana as she met the eyes of Shubman Gill, the renowned cricket star.

"You're Shubman Gill?" she blurted out, surprised.

Shubman, slightly flustered, stammered, "You are... Ms. Painter?"

Sana chuckled, "Not Ms. Painter. It's just a hobby."

Shubman's surprise mirrored her own. "You are wasting your talent, sweetheart" he blurted out, his casual tone causing Sana's cheeks to flush.

He quickly backtracked, realizing he overstepped. "Sorry, I didn't mean it like that."

"It's okay," Sana replied, her voice laced with the frustration of her unfulfilled passion. "My job doesn't leave me much time for painting."

"Quit it then," Shubman declared, his conviction surprising her. "You're gifted."

Sana had always harbored the dream of pursuing her art full-time, but fear had held her back. Yet, here was a complete stranger, a successful athlete, validating her talent with unwavering confidence. It was a turning point.

"You know what," she declared with a newfound determination, "let's do it!"

With a newfound resolve, she whipped out her phone and composed a resignation email to her boss. As she hit send, a sense of liberation washed over her.

Shubman, witnessing her bold move, could only manage a stunned, "That's... great."

Sana, riding the high of her decision, grinned, "That's right, babygirl," she winked, playfully ruffling his hair before taking her leave, leaving Shubman speechless in her wake.

*****

Five months had passed since their fateful encounter, and Sana's life had taken a significant turn. Though financial stability remained elusive, the freedom to pursue her art brought immense joy. Meanwhile, Shubman had been appointed captain of the Gujarat Titans, further solidifying his position as a cricketing superstar.

However, amidst the celebratory Delhi party for the opening of a new luxury hotel, Shubman found himself utterly bored. The forced conversations and pretentious atmosphere left him yearning for something genuine. Seeking solace, he wandered into a nearby juice center and there she was - Sana, serving drinks with a smile that outshone the neon lights.

A playful smirk tugged at his lips as he approached, "Hi Ms. Painter."

Sana, mortified by the teasing nickname, quickly ushered him into a restroom, her cheeks flushed. "What are your intentions, Jaan?" he demanded, the endearment slipping out involuntarily.

"What are you doing here?" Sana retorted, ignoring the playful nickname he'd adopted.

"You're okay with me calling you Jaan, right?" he persisted, his voice laced with a hint of mischief.