The IPL season, despite its bitter end in the Eliminator, had fundamentally reshaped Aarav's world. The public validation, the praise from commentators and legends, and his own undeniable impact on the field, had finally reached his family in a way his explanations never could. The phone calls home now vibrated with a different kind of energy.
His mother's voice, once laced with gentle worry, now swelled with unbridled pride. "Beta, we saw your wickets! And that catch! Ananya was jumping up and down in front of the TV! Your father... he doesn't say much, but he makes sure to watch every single replay of your overs." The underlying anxiety about his health, while still present, was overshadowed by sheer happiness and relief. They saw not a reckless gamble, but a dream taking tangible shape. They were simply happy that he was living his dream, a dream that had once seemed impossible. His father, pragmatist that he was, acknowledged the stability of his tech job offer, but the quiet satisfaction in his voice when discussing Aarav's on-field exploits was unmistakable.
Aarav found a new peace in this. The burden of secrecy and parental worry, which had weighed on him so heavily, had lifted. He could focus entirely on his cricket, knowing he had their unconditional support, not just their reluctant acceptance. His practice sessions with Coach Reddy, though still battling the mental echoes of the Eliminator, now carried a lighter spirit.
Then, just as the dust of the IPL season was settling, and Aarav was deep into refining his technique with Coach Reddy, the call came. It wasn't from a franchise, or a talent scout for another T20 league. It was from the Hyderabad Cricket Association.
"Aarav Reddy?" the voice on the other end was formal, direct. "This is the manager for the Hyderabad Ranji team. We've been following your progress in the IPL. Your pace, your control under pressure... it's been impressive. The selectors would like you to join the probables camp for the upcoming Ranji Trophy season."
Aarav's hand tightened around the phone. Ranji Trophy. First-class cricket. The traditional, multi-day format, the true grinder's game. It was a completely different beast from the T20 whirlwind, demanding immense stamina, patience, and a nuanced understanding of lines and lengths over prolonged periods. It was the pathway to Test cricket, the ultimate form of the game. It was a step up he hadn't dared to anticipate so soon after his IPL debut.
The "Cricket Fire," which had been burning steadily, now roared to life, hotter and brighter than ever before. This wasn't just about personal redemption or winning a single match. This was a call to represent his state, to enter the very heart of Indian domestic cricket. It was a challenge that would demand every ounce of the character he had forged in the crucible of his past struggles. His journey, from a cramped hostel room to the grand stage of the IPL, was now poised for its next, most significant chapter.