[Steel]

Madhuri returned with a plate of sandwiches, setting it down with a smile. "Have them, Ishaan, you're too skinny for cricket," she tried to tease him a little for the taunts he made on her.

Ishaan laughed and slowly rolled up his oversized t-shirt flexing his abs, grinning. "I'm only lean where it counts Aunty. Feel it if you don't believe me," He held his hand out, bold.

Madhuri laughed, swatting his hand away. "Cover it up Ishaan! You're a bad boy, you know that?" she said, but her eyes lingered on his abs, a flush creeping up her neck before she turned away.

Abhi's chest tightened with jealousy, maybe, or worse.

Ishaan caught it, whispering, "She's under my spell." he said, biting into a sandwich.

Abhi’s nerves spiked, and he muttered, "Wait till my dad catches you."

Ishaan just smirked, raising his voice to ask, "Aunty, where's uncle at? Didn't get a chance to meet him the last time." Abhi facepalmed.

"This house seems way too big for just you two," Ishaan added smoothly. Madhuri emerged with a coffee mug, smiling. "He's a busy man at work. Want some?" she offered.

"Nah, thanks, aunty. I'll have it next time with uncle," Ishaan replied, handing it over to Abhi, finishing the sandwiches and setting the plate down. He stood, thanking her with exaggerated charm, and left, his shadow stretching long behind.

Abhi stared at his sandwiches, which killed his appetite instantly.