Tia laughed. "Older folks? Baba, you're still young!"
He chuckled but shook his head. "And to think, the one and only monkey of our family is finally taking something seriously. That's an achievement in itself." He ruffled Tia's hair, making her groan in protest.
Everyone laughed, the atmosphere filled with warmth and encouragement.
Before they wrapped up their discussion, he turned to Chahat. "And you," he said, his voice carrying a note of admiration, "You've been the wise one in this group. Your thinking is inspiring others. Keep it up."
Chahat felt a wave of emotion wash over her. It wasn't often that she received such praise, and hearing it from Tia's father made it even more meaningful.
She smiled, her heart swelling with determination. "We'll make this work. Together."
Next day
The college basketball court was buzzing with excitement. It was the much-awaited girls' basketball match, and students from all over had gathered to witness the intense showdown.
Tia and Chahat had prepared well for this day. Tia, always impulsive and competitive, had been looking forward to this match for weeks. Chahat, on the other hand, remained composed as always, ready to counter any drama with her calm demeanor.
After reaching college, they both headed to the locker room to change into their sportswear.
"Girls, let's go now. It's almost time for the match!" Captain announced, her voice full of enthusiasm.
The team, dressed in their respective jerseys, made their way back to the basketball court. Among the players stood Kiya—dressed head-to-toe in pink, flaunting a brand-new sports collection. Even her headband, shoes, and socks were pink.
Tia smirked. "Looks like the makeup vase is participating too."
Chahat her eyes. "Princess Syndrome much? Even her toothbrush must be pink."
Chahat chuckled. "Oh, you have no idea. Her entire dorm room is a pink explosion—furniture, curtains, decorations, everything. Even her coffee cup and notebook pen."
Just as they approached the court, Kiya turned to look at them. Her gaze locked onto Chahat, and she sneered.
"You? An orphan like you is participating?" Kiya scoffed. "Don't even think about joining my team. I have standards."
Chahat remained unfazed, her expression cool. "Oh, please. Who would even want to be on your team? We're on opposite sides, remember?"
Kiya smirked. "Suits you."
Tia stepped forward, her fists clenched. "Listen, you plastic doll, the game hasn't even started, and you're already running your mouth. Get ready to lose."
Pragya, the team captain, intervened before things could escalate. "Enough, Tia. Focus on the game. We're here to win, not fight."
Tia clicked her tongue but backed off. "Fine. But after we crush her team, I'm treating everyone!"
The match was about to begin. The air was thick with anticipation as students filled the stands. Cheers and chants echoed across the court.
Tia cracked her knuckles. "Today, we have to win against those bimbos. Let's give it our hundred percent."
Another team member grinned, her eyes burning with determination. "Oh, don't worry. Watching that makeup vase lose is going to be a sight to remember."
The referee blew the whistle, and the game was on.
The first few minutes were intense. Kiya's team had some good players, but they relied too much on flashy moves rather than teamwork. Tia, fueled by her frustration with Kiya, played aggressively, scoring basket after basket.
Chahat played strategically, making quick passes and dodging defenders effortlessly. Her calm presence on the court balanced Tia's fiery energy.