The gaming house was buzzing with energy as the team wrapped up another grueling day of scrims. Aarav lingered in the lounge, sipping water, his mind still replaying the bold moves he'd pulled off earlier. Rhea's challenge had pushed him out of his comfort zone—and for the first time, he felt like he belonged.
But as he walked past the hallway toward his room, voices drifted from the strategy room. He paused, curiosity tugging at him. The door was slightly ajar, and inside, Rhea sat alone, headset off, talking quietly on her phone.
Aarav froze when he heard her words.
"I can't lose my spot, Kabir," she said, her voice low but tense. "They're already looking at younger players. If I slip, I'm done."
Aarav's breath caught. Rhea? Afraid of losing her place? It didn't match the fearless leader he knew—the one who barked orders like a general and carried herself like a champion.
"I've worked too hard for this," Rhea continued, her tone cracking slightly. "I can't let them replace me."
Aarav stepped back, guilt gnawing at him for eavesdropping. He turned to leave, but his foot brushed against the doorframe. The soft creak made Rhea glance up.
"Aarav?" Her eyes narrowed. "What are you doing?"
"I—I was just…" Aarav stammered, heat rushing to his face. "Heading to my room."
Rhea studied him for a moment, then sighed, rubbing her temples. "You heard, didn't you?"
Aarav hesitated. "A little."
She leaned back in her chair, the confident mask slipping for the first time. "Guess the secret's out."
Aarav stepped inside slowly. "I didn't know you… felt that way."
Rhea gave a bitter laugh. "Everyone thinks I'm unshakable. Truth is, this industry chews you up if you're not perfect. One bad season, and you're history."
Aarav frowned. "You're the best player I've ever seen."
"Doesn't matter," Rhea said quietly. "There's always someone younger, faster, hungrier."
For a moment, silence hung between them. Aarav saw her differently now—not just as the fierce captain who pushed him hard, but as someone fighting her own battle.
"You won't lose your spot," Aarav said firmly. "Not if I can help it."
Rhea looked at him, surprise flickering in her eyes. Then, slowly, a faint smile curved her lips. "Big words for a rookie."
Aarav smiled back, determination burning in his chest. "I mean them."
Rhea held his gaze for a moment longer, then nodded. "Get some sleep, Aarav. Tomorrow, we grind harder."
As he left the room, Aarav felt something shift inside him. This wasn't just about proving himself anymore. It was about fighting—for the team, and maybe for Rhea too.