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Chapter 17 - Salman

Despite missing the official tryouts, Alan had been given a chance to prove his skills, thanks to Vineet's persuasive efforts. Recognizing Alan's talent, they granted him a coveted spot on the basketball team.

Within the team, Alan discovered a new circle of friends who shared his passion for the sport. They exuded a refreshing sense of coolness and fun, fostering an environment that celebrated camaraderie and support without succumbing to harmful behaviors.

Amongst Alan's new friends on the team was the legendary Salman, who seemed to have a gravitational pull on the hostel girls. Every practice and game, a group of girls would gather under the tree near the basketball court, their cheers reaching ear-splitting levels whenever Salman made a shot. It was as if he had his very own fan club.

Alan had always assumed that Fiza's presence at the basketball court was solely to support him, but now realized that that may not be the case.

He felt an irrational anger directed towards Salman.

That evening, he fouled Salman repeatedly; his emotions blurring his judgment and overshadowing his ability to maintain control. Sandeep, the captain finally intervened and demanded that Alan sit out until he regained his composure and displayed better self-control.

Fiza felt a deep sense of embarrassment, unsure of how to address Alan's behavior. Despite her unease, she reluctantly settled down on the cemented ground next to him, gathering the courage to confront the situation. "What was that, Alan?" she asked, her voice carrying a mix of concern and confusion.

"Just the game," Alan muttered, his response lacking clarity. Fiza pressed on, her curiosity piqued. "You won't sabotage me?" she inquired. As Alan's gaze met hers, he felt a pang of betrayal, momentarily questioning her intentions.

However, her playful smile quickly revealed her jest, putting his apprehensions to rest. He couldn't help but react impulsively, placing his hand on her thigh without thinking, and playfully calling her an "idiot."

Fiza's reaction was swift and sharp. She took a sharp breath, immediately removing his hand from her thigh. "Don't do that!" she exclaimed with a tinge of frustration in her voice. "You know I'm... I'm sensitive." She bit her lip. Her words held an underlying vulnerability, highlighting the boundaries that Alan had unintentionally crossed.

Alan's mind raced, replaying the intimate moments they had shared, the soft gasp that escaped her lips when he had nestled his face against her neck, and the deep breaths she had taken when he had held her close.

He remembered her confessing, "No one's touched me before." Confusion swirled within him as he tried to reconcile her intimacy with him and her present request to be introduced to Salman.

Salman jogged towards them, a friendly smile lighting up his face. He extended his hand towards Alan and cheerfully asked, "You good, brah?"

"Yeah! All good," Alan responded with a lighthearted tone, a grin stretching across his face. Turning to Salman, he excitedly exclaimed, "Have you met Fiza?" He was determined to fulfill his promise of introducing them.

Salman greeted Fiza with exaggerated enthusiasm, dramatically taking her hand in his. Alan watched in amusement as Fiza's cheeks turned the brightest shade of red. "We were all eagerly waiting for this moment, for this oaf to finally introduce you to us!" Salman exclaimed, playfully slapping Alan on the back.

"You were?" Fiza asked, her smile widening. Alan couldn't help but feel a little self-conscious, shrinking in Salman's playful banter.

"Oh, absolutely!" Salman replied, his laughter booming. "We've been dying to see who would be foolish enough to go out with this guy!" He guffawed, clearly poking fun at Alan.