Though Kabir and Rohan were both accustomed to hard work, their training had become even stricter upon arriving here. The glitz of the big city surrounding the stadium tempted them at first. Whenever they had a little free time, they would think of doing this, seeing that, going here, or bringing back something from there... but the routine was so rigorous that from morning until night, there was no time for anything else. By the time night fell, they were so exhausted that the moment they collapsed onto their beds, thoughts of anything other than sleep didn't even cross their minds. They would wake up straight in the morning.
In the hustle and bustle here, they couldn’t meet their little sir as often, but Kabir liked that at least he was always in sight. He would show up somewhere during the day, which gave him a great sense of reassurance. Rohan had also thrown himself into the rigorous training.
As time passed, one day, they were finally given some time for shopping in the market. All the trainees went to nearby shops and malls to buy clothes and other necessary items. By now, they had also formed friendships and acquaintances with several people. In this context, Rohan displayed wisdom; he got busy wandering around with other boys. Kabir and the little sir had plenty of time to explore together. They all decided to eat out that day.
Kabir and the little sir also shopped for many items together. It felt like a long-overdue reunion between childhood friends. Kabir and the little sir were only two or three years apart in age, but when they were together, they became equals. In front of others, Kabir maintained full decorum and respect in his manner and speech, but when they were alone, there was no pretense or distance between them. Their connection reached straight from heart to heart.
Rohan had become so open with Kabir that he would jokingly ask about many secret aspects of their relationship. However, Kabir never divulged much about it. He was often astonished at the depth of his attachment to the little sir. Why did he feel so empty in their absence? Just seeing him from a distance lifted the loneliness from his heart.
He never felt such a connection with Rohan, even though Rohan was not only young but also quite handsome and open. In the little sir's eyes, he saw a sense of belonging. They even shared their belongings with each other, including shoes, clothes, and undergarments.
Rohan was now eighteen and understood these things well, doing his best to cooperate wherever possible. During training, they learned that all preparations for their passports and visas were complete. The students were also taught not just the nuances of the sport but other general knowledge. They received insights about the country, the language, the national flag, and the constitution, along with lessons on self-respect. They even learned how to face the media for the first time.
They were also educated about dietary habits and discipline, along with general information regarding dress codes. Laden with information and knowledge, the three of them returned. Now, only a few days remained for their foreign trip.
