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पहली पहली बारिश सी महकी ये हवाऐं
दिल में एक लहर सी उठी अभी
खोये खोये रहने लगे हैं तुमसे मिल के
होश में बेहोशी है क्यूँ अभी
ना मैं जानू ना तू जाने
कैसी है ये उलझनें
क्या करें अब क्या ना करें
ऐ मेरे हमनवा
ओ ईशा हाँ, ओह ईशा
____________________
VOTE: 400+
COMMENTS: 450+
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The final day had finally arrived. The school playground and auditorium looked nothing like they usually did no dust, no chaos, no half-broken chairs. Instead, everything was alive.
Colorful balloons swayed gently with the breeze, pastel ribbons curled around railings, fairy lights were wrapped along pillars, and fresh flowers filled the air with a soft, sweet fragrance. It felt less like a school and more like a celebration of memories that were about to become goodbyes.
The 11th graders, the backbone of the entire farewell, were already running around since early morning clipboards in hands, hair half-done, nerves high.
“Stage decor complete!” Daksh shouted from near the auditorium stage.
Aditi stood in the middle of the ground, files tucked under her arm, eyes sharp as she scanned everything one last time. She nodded only after adjusting a slightly crooked ribbon herself.
“Good. Sound check next,” she said, already moving on.
Nearby, Priya was standing in front of a massive hand-painted cartoon character bright, cheerful, perfectly imperfect. She dipped her brush again, filling in a spot no one else would’ve noticed.
“Priya yaar, bas kar…hogaya vo!” Shagun groaned, hands on her hips. “Ab tu isko museum piece bana ke hi maanegi kya?”
“Haan bas… ek second,” Priya replied, still carefully stroking the edges. “Thoda sa aur smooth chahiye.” Shagun rolled her eyes but smiled anyway.
On the other side, Riva stood with her arms crossed, visibly irritated. “Vivaan yaar,” she snapped, pointing toward a group of overexcited Red House boys jumping around near the seating area, “apne house walon ko thoda shanti se rehne ko bolo. Poora system bigaad rahe hain.”
Vivaan didn’t even argue. “Ha bolta hoon,” he said instantly, striding toward them and smacking two boys lightly on the back of their heads. “Kaam karo tum saare…kyu pareshaan kar rhe ho?.” The boys immediately straightened up.
Just then, the head in-charge’s voice echoed through the speakers. “Attention students! All volunteers, please change into your farewell outfits. Class 12 has started arriving.”
The words sent a wave of adrenaline through everyone. Students scattered instantly laughing, shouting, tripping over ribbons, rushing toward washrooms and changing rooms.
“Adu chal jaldi!” Priya said, grabbing Aditi’s wrist and pulling her along.
“Arre haan aa rahi hoon…bhaag kyun rahi hai itna?” Aditi laughed, nearly losing her balance.
“Tujhe mera makeup karna hai,” Priya said seriously. “Jaldi chal, bohot time lagega.”
Aditi gasped dramatically. “Pehle bolti, Samaira di ko saath le aati main.”
Shagun snorted. “Haan haan, kyun nahi. Didi Ludhiana se teleport ho jaati na iska makeup karne ke liye?”
“Ho sakta hai aa bhi jaati,” Riva added jokingly, earning a chorus of laughter.
Still laughing, teasing, bumping into each other, the four girls disappeared into the changing rooms hearts pounding with excitement, nostalgia already settling in their chests.
One by one, the Class 12 students began entering the school gates.
They were welcomed first by the teachers warm smiles, proud nods, and eyes that carried a strange mix of happiness and sadness. These were the same corridors where these students had once run with untied shoelaces, complained about homework, and dreamed without knowing how fast time would move.
Then Ansh walked in. Dressed in a perfectly tailored black suit, his posture straight, shoulders squared his presence was quietly commanding. There was something about him that made people pause without realizing why. Calm confidence, charm that didn’t demand attention but naturally pulled it. This wasn’t just a farewell for him this school had raised him.
Beside him, Prateek walked in wearing a beige-colored suit, looking effortlessly handsome, a soft smile on his face as his eyes wandered around classrooms, notice boards, the playground everything felt familiar yet distant.
And then there was Ruhaan, in a dark olive green suit, looking every bit the charmer he was. The color suited him perfectly, enhancing his expressive eyes and that easy grin he carried like armor.
For a moment, all three of them stopped near the ground, just standing there.
“Dekhte dekhte kitne bade ho gaye na hum,” Ruhaan said softly, his eyes fixed on the playground where they had once played cricket with torn tennis balls.
“Haan…” Prateek nodded. “Sirf do saal hi bitaye maine yahan, par aisa lag raha hai jaise bachpan se yahin basa hua hoon main.”
Ruhaan chuckled and turned toward Ansh. “Ansh toh kuch zyada hi juda hai yahan se. Main bhi fourth mein aaya tha… aur yeh toh nursery se hi yahin hai.”
Ansh smiled faintly, eyes still scanning the campus memories rushing in uninvited. His first school bag. Scraped knees. Teachers who scolded him like parents. Stages he had stood on a hundred times.
“Tabhi toh school walon ne majdoor bana diya ise yahan ka,” Prateek joked.
That did it. All three burst out laughing even Ansh his rare, genuine laugh echoing for just a second before nostalgia wrapped around him again. Time moved quickly after that.
Soon, almost every Class 12 student had arrived. Teachers and 11th-class volunteers guided everyone to their seats on the ground. The chatter slowly settled, excitement buzzing in the air as the farewell was finally about to begin.
Aditi stepped onto the stage.
She was wearing a black anarkali suit, elegant and graceful, her hair left open, soft waves falling over her shoulders. Minimal makeup, glowing skin, confidence shining through her eyes. She held the mic steadily, taking a breath.
The moment Ansh saw her, something inside him stilled and then rushed. A quiet heat spread through his chest. She looked… beautiful. Not just dressed beautifully but herself. Strong. Poised. The girl who had grown right alongside him in these corridors, now standing on a stage, ready to lead.
Ansh leaned back slightly in his chair, eyes fixed on her, a small, proud smile playing on his lips.
Aditi adjusted the mic slightly, her fingers steady now. The faint chatter in the ground slowly faded as her voice echoed through the speakers.
“Good evening respected teachers, dear seniors, and my lovely friends,” she began, her tone warm yet confident.
She looked ahead rows of familiar faces, some smiling, some emotional, some pretending not to be. Her eyes briefly found Ansh, seated among the seniors. He was already looking at her, calm and attentive, like always. That silent reassurance settled her nerves.
“Today is not just a farewell,” Aditi continued, “it’s a celebration of everything our Class 12 seniors have been to this school leaders, mentors, troublemakers,” she added with a soft smile, making a few students laugh, “and most importantly, family.”
She paused, letting her words sink in.
“You all gave this school your hard work, your time, your energy and in return, this place shaped you into the people you are today. As you step into a new phase of life, I want you to remember that no matter how far you go, this school will always be a part of you.” Her voice softened.
“We wish you courage for your dreams, strength for your struggles, and happiness in all the versions of your future selves you are yet to meet.”
A gentle wave of applause followed. Ansh felt his chest tighten she spoke like she belonged here, like she had always been meant to lead. Aditi took a small breath and smiled again.
“To begin today’s farewell on a positive and peaceful note, I request everyone to please move towards the central plaza for the hawan ceremony, where we will pray together for the bright futures of our seniors.”
She turned slightly toward the teachers’ row before speaking again.
“And now, I would like to request our Ex-Head Boy, Ansh Singhania, and Ex-Head Girl, Dipti Mathur, to kindly come forward and lead the hawan pooja.”
For a second, the world seemed to pause.
Ansh looked up, surprised then composed himself instantly. He stood up, adjusting his black suit, acknowledging the teachers with a respectful nod. Dipti rose beside him, elegant and calm.
The central plaza was bathed in a calm, sacred glow. Soft chants filled the air as the hawan kund crackled gently, flames rising and settling like quiet prayers. The fragrance of ghee and flowers mixed with the early evening breeze, wrapping the space in something deeply peaceful.
Everyone stood with their heads covered in respect teachers, students, volunteers.
Ansh stood beside Aditi, a few inches apart, yet closer than words could measure. Both had their heads covered, eyes lowered now and then, palms folded, hearts steady.
For once, the world around them blurred. Ansh leaned in just enough to whisper, his voice barely louder than the chants. “Head Girl is slaying today huh?”
Aditi smiled without looking at him, eyes still on the hawan.
“apki girlfriend hu…slay to karungi hi” she whispered back, then tilted her head slightly toward him. “Waise… kala teeka laga lena chahiye tha aapko. Sab ghoor rahe hain.”
Ansh glanced around subtly, then looked at her from the corner of his eye.
“Tum ho na,” he murmured, “mera kala teeka.” Her breath hitched.
Before she could stop herself, she reached up, gently rubbing a little kajal from the corner of her eye. With the smallest, most careful movement almost reverent she placed it behind his ear.
“Phir bhi,” she whispered, cheeks warm, “safe rehna chahiye na.”
Ansh froze for a second. Not because of the touch but because of how she did it. Soft. Intentional. Like a blessing.
He smiled to himself, then mirrored her action, taking a tiny bit of kajal and reaching for her slowly, giving her time to pull away if she wanted. She didn’t.
He placed it gently behind her ear, his fingers lingering for a heartbeat longer than necessary.
“Tumko bhi toh nazar se bachna hoga,” he whispered, voice low and affectionate, “especially… meri nazar se. Bohot pyaari lag rahi ho.”
Aditi swallowed, heat rushing to her cheeks. She ducked her head, pretending to focus on the hawan as the priest offered the next mantra.
As the hawan rituals went on, the air filled with chants and the soft crackling of fire, Ruhaan quietly slipped away from the crowd, eyes already searching for one particular person.
Shagun was standing a little away, adjusting the edge of her dupatta, completely unaware of the mischief approaching her.
Before she could react, a hand gently but firmly caught her wrist and pulled her behind a tall pillar near the corridor.
“Ruhaan” she gasped, eyes widening in shock.
He leaned closer, a lazy grin playing on his lips, clearly enjoying the way she froze for a second before glaring at him.
“Relax,” he whispered, voice low and teasing. “Koi nahi dekh raha.”
Shagun folded her arms, trying to look annoyed, but the faint pink creeping up her cheeks betrayed her. “Pagal ho kya? Sab wahan pooja mein busy hain. aur tum yaha?”
“Exactly,” he said, tilting his head slightly, eyes roaming over her face unapologetically. “Aur tum… damn, Shagun. You look beautiful today.”
She looked away instantly. “Bas karo, Ruhaan.”
He chuckled softly. “Sach bol raha hoon. And honestly?” His voice dropped a notch. “I feel kinda proud… ki tum meri girlfriend ho.”
That made her look back at him surprised.
“And main bhi kam handsome nahi hoon, dekho” he added smugly, straightening his collar dramatically.
She let out a small laugh despite herself. “Self-obsessed kahin ke.”
Ruhaan stepped closer, close enough that she could feel his breath. His teasing expression softened, eyes lingering on hers as he slowly leaned in.
Shagun’s heart skipped. For a second, she didn’t move.
And then she ducked sideways at the last moment, slipping out of his reach with a playful smirk.
“Hey!” Ruhaan protested.
She raised an eyebrow, trying hard to look serious. “Itna naughty hone ki zarurat nahi hai,” she said lightly. “Sabar karo.”
He laughed under his breath, shaking his head. “that’s not fair…”
She glanced back toward the hawan area and then at him again. “Chalo abhi, warna pakde gaye na to khair nhi hogi tumhari.”
Ruhaan stepped aside, gesturing dramatically. “As you say, madam.”
As they walked back, Ruhaan couldn’t help the smile tugging at his lips and Shagun couldn’t stop the warmth spreading in her chest, no matter how much she tried to hide it.
Since the farewell has began, The lights dimmed slightly as the last dance performance ended, the applause still echoing across the auditorium. The excitement in the air didn’t settle for even a second if anything, it doubled.
Aditi walked back onto the stage, microphone in hand, her posture confident yet warm. A small smile curved on her lips as she waited for the chatter to die down.
“And now,” she began, her voice clear and steady, “comes one of the most awaited parts of today’s farewell…”
A collective oooh rose from the 12th graders, whistles and claps following instantly.
” the selection of Mr. Farewell and Miss Farewell.”
The cheering grew louder. Someone from the back yelled, “Finallyyy!” making a few teachers smile in amusement.
Aditi chuckled lightly before continuing, slipping back into her composed headgirl tone.
“There will be three rounds for the selection,” she announced. “The first round will be a rampwalk round.”
A wave of nervous laughter spread among the students.
“From this round, selected students will move to the second round, where they’ll be asked a few questions nothing scary,” she added teasingly, earning a few relieved sighs.
“And finally,” she said, pausing deliberately, “the third and final round where you’ll showcase your talent. Anything you’re comfortable with.”
Applause filled the hall again.
Aditi turned slightly toward Daksh, giving him a small nod. He stepped forward, taking the mic smoothly.
“Alright, Class 12,” Daksh announced, scanning the audience with a grin. “For the first round, I request all of you to come up on stage.”
A collective gasp, followed by chaos. Despite the dramatic reactions, laughter filled the auditorium as chairs scraped and students began standing up.
Ansh rose too, straightening his suit instinctively. As he stepped into the aisle, his eyes briefly searched the stage and found Aditi watching from the side, giving him a tiny, encouraging nod.
That one look was enough to steady him.
One by one, the 12th graders climbed onto the stage, forming a long, uneven line some confident, some visibly nervous, some already posing like professionals.
Teachers watched with amused expressions, juniors cheered loudly, and the auditorium buzzed with anticipation.
The stage lights softened as the last name for Round 1 echoed through the auditorium. Applause rolled like a wave cheers, whistles, playful hooting bouncing off the walls that had witnessed years of bunked classes, stolen glances, and growing-up moments.
“And for Round 2…” Daksh announced, unfolding the chit with dramatic slowness, “…we have samar,vikrant,vedant,shourya,arav,mayank and ansh” each name followed a gasp and applause.
The moment Ansh’s name was called, the reaction was instant and loud.
Ansh allowed himself a small, controlled smile. He adjusted his blazer instinctively something he always did when he was nervous but trying not to show it and stepped forward with the rest of the selected students.
From the front row, Aditi clapped politely, her expression excieted, like a small child, her heart fluttered with a strange mix of pride and anticipation. Her lips curved into a soft smile she didn’t even realise she was wearing.
Round 2 began casually. The 11th graders took turns with the mic, clearly enjoying the power.
“If you were a teacher, which subject would you fail students in on purpose?”
“What’s your biggest hidden talent—sleeping or bunking?”
“what would you do if you ever get a chance to be the head incharch ma’am?”
The hall erupted in laughter again and again. Even teachers smiled indulgently. Then one boy stepped forward, mischief written all over his face. He held the mic a little closer, eyes fixed on Ansh.
“Okay… Ansh bhaiya,” he said, stressing bhaiya deliberately, earning chuckles, “what will you miss the most after leaving school?”
The noise gradually faded. Something about the question shifted the air. Even the teachers leaned forward slightly. Ansh paused.
For a brief moment, it felt like time slowed. His gaze drifted past the bright stage lights, past the rows of students until it found Aditi.
She was sitting in the front row, hands folded neatly on her lap, pretending to be extremely interested in the mic cable near her feet. Completely unaware. Totally innocent. Or at least pretending to be.
A soft smile tugged at Ansh’s lips one that didn’t belong on a stage, but somewhere much more private.
“I think,” he began slowly, his voice steady yet warm, “I’ll miss the feeling of coming to school every morning and knowing that… no matter how bad the day gets, there’s always something worth looking forward to.”
A few students exchanged glances.
“The familiar faces,” he continued, eyes still fixed somewhere in the crowd, “the routine, the chaos… and seeing certain people every single day without even realising how important that becomes.” The auditorium fell quiet.
“In the future,” he finished softly, “I’ll probably miss the fact that I didn’t need a reason to smile. School itself was enough.”
For a second pure silence. Then The hall exploded. Cheers, whistles, claps, dramatic hooting. Someone yelled, “superb!” Another shouted, “BRO WENT DEEP!”
Aditi’s heart skipped. She kept her posture straight, expression neutral but the heat climbing up her ears betrayed her.
Before Ansh could even exhale properly, Aditi stood up, mic already in her hand. Her eyes sparkled not with authority now, but with something far more dangerous.
“Okay,” she said casually, tilting her head, “since we’re being honest…”
The crowd sensed chaos and immediately encouraged it. She smiled sweetly, eyebrows raised just enough to make his stomach flip.
she asked, voice deceptively calm, “is there someone in your life whom you wish you would’ve dated during your school years?”
The reaction was instant madness.
Whistles. Gasps. Cheers. As if this was the only question everyone had secretly been waiting for all along.
In the front row, Ruhaan bit back a grin, elbowing Prateek.
“Kya hi bolenge bhaiya ispe,” Priya laughed under her breath.
“Khud girlfriend unki unse pooch rahi hai,” Vivaan added, shaking his head in disbelief.
On stage, Ansh visibly froze. His ears turned red almost instantly. This he hadn’t prepared for. Especially not from her.
Aditi raised an eyebrow, a mischievous smirk playing on her lips, clearly enjoying his panic a little too much.
Ansh cleared his throat, buying himself a second.
“Umm…” he began, scratching the back of his neck, earning a few teasing hoots. “I guess… that’s a very, very, veryyyy personal question.”
The crowd groaned dramatically.
“But,” he continued smoothly, his voice settling, “yeah… I consider myself lucky and blessed enough to have that person in my life.”
The noise softened into attentive silence.
“And,” he added, eyes lifting locking directly onto Aditi’s, “I’d like you to say thank you to her for being present here today. On this special day.”
His gaze didn’t waver. “I hope you’ll pass on the message.”
A collective gasp rippled through the auditorium. someone wispered”i knew it he’s dating someone”
Aditi felt her breath hitch. For half a second, she forgot where she was.
Then she masked it perfectly, nodding once with a composed smile. “Sure,” she replied calmly, voice steady. “I will.”
As she sat down, students around her immediately leaned in.
“WHO IS IT?”
“BATA NA!”
“Ansh bhaiya ka CRUSH KAUN HAI?”
Aditi only smiled, eyes shining saying nothing.
The auditorium hummed with renewed excitement as Round 3 was announced. The lights dimmed slightly, anticipation buzzing in the air like static.
“This is where you all show us something that makes you… you,” Daksh said into the mic, smiling. “Dance, singing, comedy, poetry anything. The stage is yours.”
One by one, students took over the spotlight.
A boy cracked jokes so painfully bad that they circled back to being funny, earning exaggerated groans and loud claps.
Another guy performed a high-energy freestyle dance, all dramatic flips and messy landings, cheered on by their friends.
Someone sang a Bollywood medley, voice trembling at first but growing steadier with every line.
The crowd cheered for everyone this wasn’t about winning anymore. It was about last times.
When Ansh’s turn was about to come, he stepped forward calmly, hands tucked into his pockets, gaze sweeping over the stage like he was memorising it. Singing felt right. Familiar. Something he could rely on without thinking too much.
Earlier, quietly, he’d asked a junior backstage if a guitar could be arranged just in case. And now, as he moved toward the side steps, he saw Aditi standing there. Backstage. With a guitar in her hands.
For a second, he just looked at her surprised, amused, a little softened by the fact that she’d thought of this before he even asked again. She motioned with her chin, a silent go on.
Ansh stepped down quietly and took the guitar from her. Their fingers brushed briefly, enough to send a small jolt through both of them.
“Good luck,” she said softly, eyes warm.
He smiled. The kind that reached his eyes without effort. Then, just as he adjusted the strap, Aditi tilted her head, mischief lighting up her face.
“Vaise…” she said casually, lowering her voice, “apne crush ke baare mein to reveal kar diya. Mere baare mein kab reveal karenge?”
He arched an eyebrow, leaning a little closer.
“Abhi kar du?” he whispered back, equally teasing. “Tum kaho to.” Her eyes widened for half a second before she recovered, folding her arms.
“Soch lijiye,” she warned playfully. “Sabko pata chal jayega phir… that we’re dating.” Ansh hummed thoughtfully, pretending to consider it.
“Chal jaane do,” he said lightly, then added, quieter, more certain, “ek na ek din to sabko pata hi chalna hai.” Aditi looked up at him, amused and just a little nervous now.
“To aap sabke saamne mera naam lenge?” she asked, half joking, half not. He smiled again, this time slower.
“Ab jisse pyaar karta hoon,” he said gently, “uska naam to lena hi padega na.”
Before she could react, before she could overthink the way her heart suddenly skipped he turned and walked toward the stage.
Leaving Aditi standing there, completely flustered. Her mind raced.
She watched him take his place under the lights, guitar resting easily against him, posture calm but eyes bright with something unreadable.
The auditorium quieted as he adjusted the mic. Aditi returned to her seat slowly, pulse still unsteady, gaze locked on him.
Ansh adjusted the guitar against his shoulder, the murmurs in the auditorium slowly fading as the first soft note rang out. The lights felt warmer now, closer like the stage had shrunk to just him and the feeling sitting quietly in his chest.
(please listen to ‘ O ISHA ‘ song from major movie by armaan malik for better feels)
He closed his eyes. Not because he was nervous but because some songs were meant to be felt before they were heard.
His fingers moved gently over the strings, careful, unhurried. Then his voice followed low, steady, wrapped in calm affection.
“पहली पहली बारिश सी
मेहकाई ये हवाऐं
दिल में एक लहर सी उठी अभी…”
The melody flowed like a confession he wasn’t saying out loud. It wasn’t loud. It wasn’t dramatic. It was him raw, honest, singing the way he spoke when he wasn’t trying to be strong.
Ansh didn’t open his eyes, but somehow his voice found her anyway. The hall slowly quieted again as Ansh’s fingers brushed the strings, softer this time like he was afraid the moment might break if he pressed too hard.
He lifted his gaze. And this time, he didn’t look away. His eyes found Aditi effortlessly, a soft smile forming on his lips unguarded, familiar, hers. His voice followed, calm yet weighted with feeling, blending perfectly with the rhythm of the guitar.
“खोये खोये रहने
लगे हैं तुमसे मिल के
होश में बेहोशी है क्यों अभी…”
Aditi’s breath hitched. Her heart skipped not loudly, terrifying way where you feel it more than hear it. She swallowed, fingers tightening around the armrest as if that would steady her.
Ansh didn’t look away this time not even for a second. His eyes stayed locked on Aditi’s, steady, as if the words weren’t just lyrics anymore… as if they were a confession he didn’t need permission to make.
His voice flowed gently into the hall.
“ना मैं जानू, ना तू जाने
कैसी हैं ये उलझनें…”
The line hung between them.
Aditi felt it settle in her chest that feeling. The one she never had words for. The one that made loving him terrifying and beautiful at the same time.
It felt like he was asking her something without actually asking.”What do we do now… when it’s already this deep?”
Then came the next line. His voice lifted soft, sincere just enough to make it ache.
“क्या करे अब, क्या ना करे
ऐ मेरे हमनवा…”
On हमनवा, his tone warmed, almost playful, almost shy.
He glanced down for a brief second, lips curving into a small, helpless chuckle as if even he was overwhelmed by how real it all felt. Like he couldn’t believe he was standing there, singing this, for her, in front of everyone.
Aditi’s eyes burned. She smiled through it anyway. Because she understood. Every confusion. Every unspoken fear. Every choice that scared them both The guitar slowed, the notes stretching soft, reverent, almost prayer-like.
Ansh lifted his chin slightly, breath steady now. There was no hesitation left in him. No nervous smile. No playful teasing. Just truth.
His fingers brushed the strings one last time as his voice rose, calm yet unwavering.
“ओह ईशा… हाँ ओह ईशा…”
The hall seemed to still.
Not Aditi. Not someone from the crowd.
Isha.
The name only he used. The name that lived safely between them spoken in whispers, laughter, scoldings, late-night confessions. He sang it again, this time deeper, fuller, like he was sealing it into the air.
“ओह ईशा… हाँ ओह ईशा…”
His eyes never left her. It didn’t feel like a song anymore. It felt like a declaration quiet but undeniable. As if he was telling the entire auditorium, This is her. This is the one my heart knows.
Aditi’s breath hitched. Goosebumps raced up her arms, her fingers curling into the fabric of her anarkali as her name his version of her name wrapped around her like a promise. Her eyes shimmered, but she didn’t look away. She couldn’t.
For a moment, it didn’t matter that they hadn’t said it out loud to the world. Because everyone felt it. When the last note faded, silence followed thick, stunned, reverent.
Applause thundered through the hall, whistles and cheers echoing off the walls, people standing up, clapping so hard their palms stung. It was loud, overwhelming… but Ansh heard none of it.
Because in the middle of all that noise, his eyes had already found her.
Aditi sat frozen in her seat, eyes shimmering, lashes heavy with unshed tears that had gathered not from sadness but from something far softer, far deeper. Love. Pure and overwhelming. Her chest rose as she took a shaky breath, still caught in the moment he had created just for her.
Slowly, almost shyly, she lifted her hands.
Her palms pressed gently to her lips like she was afraid to disturb the magic then she tilted her head just a little and sent him a tiny flying kiss. It wasn’t dramatic. It wasn’t loud. It was theirs.
Ansh caught it instantly. His breath hitched for the briefest second. A soft, helpless smile curved on his lips as he dropped his gaze, almost embarrassed, almost overwhelmed like his heart had suddenly grown too full for his chest. He ran his thumb over the guitar neck unconsciously, shoulders relaxing, pride and love settling deep in his eyes.
_______________
As the announcement echoed Mr Farewell: Ansh and Miss Farewell from another section the competition officially dissolved into cheers, claps, and teasing whistles. Titles were forgotten within seconds, because now it was time for what everyone had been waiting for.
The DJ floor.
The lights dimmed, colors splashed across the auditorium, and music blasted so loud it vibrated through the bones. Laughter mixed with beats, shoes thudded against the floor, and ties were loosened without a second thought.
Aditi didn’t even ask properly she just grabbed Ansh’s wrist and dragged him straight into the crowd.
“NO EXCUSES,” she yelled over the music, already laughing.
Ansh, who normally stayed ten steps away from dance floors, found himself surrounded by Ruhaan’s dramatic moves, Prateek’s off-beat clapping, and Aditi spinning around like she owned the place. At first, he tried to resist awkward shoulders, half-smiles but the way Aditi laughed, head thrown back, eyes shining… something in him gave up.
And then, He danced as well, Not perfect. Not planned. But free.
Aditi cheered when he finally let loose, Ruhaan hooted like he’d witnessed history being made, and soon their laughter echoed louder than the DJ beats themselves. For once, Ansh wasn’t head boy, Mr Farewell, or the responsible one.
But not everyone was on the floor.
Near one corner, Riva stood stiffly, arms crossed, talking to Shivank. Their faces were tight, voices sharp but low. Vivaan had noticed them hours ago noticed the way Riva kept explaining, and the way Shivank kept rolling his eyes.
“…at least try to understand Shivank,” Riva said, frustration creeping into her voice. “I’m not free. I can’t just-“
“Just skip your work for one day,” Shivank snapped. “Kya hi ukhaad logi ek din mein?”
“You’re not listening,” she said, voice strained. “Meri didi aa rahi hai. I can’t come.” He scoffed.
“Fine,” he said coldly. “Didi ke pallu se hi bandhe rehna.”
And with that, he walked away straight back to the dance floor leaving Riva standing there, jaw clenched, eyes burning.
Vivaan had seen enough. He didn’t know the exact words, but the tone? That, he understood very well. He walked up to her casually, hands in pockets.
“Oyeee Phoolan Devi,” he called. Riva looked up, annoyed already.
“Kya hua?” Vivaan smirked. “Boyfriend ditch karke chala gaya?”
She rolled her eyes hard. “Vivaan yaar… abhi mujhe pareshaan mat karo. I’m really not in the mood to argue.”
Something in her voice tired, flat made him drop the teasing… just a little.
“Theek hai,” he said. “Dance toh kar hi sakti ho.”
“Man nahi hai mera.” she said
“Arey yaar,” he insisted, tugging her wrist lightly. “Tumhara favorite gaana baj raha hai. Chal na.”
“Vivaan…leave me….” she resisted.
Too late.
The DJ blasted “Chunari Chunari”, and the entire auditorium lost its mind. Cheers erupted. Someone screamed the lyrics. Vivaan’s eyes lit up like he’d just won the lottery.
Before Riva could react, he snatched her dupatta, dramatically draped it over his own head like a filmi heroine, and started dancing full-on, zero shame.
Overdramatic hand waves. Hip shakes that made no anatomical sense. Spins so aggressive he almost tripped. He even pretended to do the hook step, mouthing the lyrics with tragic intensity.
WHATT THE HELL-” riva asked in shock
“I’M FEELING IT,” he yelled. “MUJHE BOHOT ZOR SE DANCE AA RAHA HAIII!”
Riva stared at him stunned. Then she burst out laughing.
“Chuhe chhod, kharab ho jaayegi meri chunni!” she scolded between laughs.
“Bas ek baar,” Vivaan pleaded, still dancing with the dupatta over his head. “Ek baar hook step kar le mere saath. Phir pakka de dunga!”
She shook her head, laughing helplessly. “Bas ek baar. Haan.”
“ha bss ik baar” he conirmed, eyes lighting up. She nodded. And just like that, the impossible happened. Vivaan successfully dragged his hardcore enemy onto the dance floor.
As they danced awkward, laughing, completely ridiculous something shifted. The hurt didn’t vanish, but it softened. And for the first time that day, Riva smiled without forcing it.
At the other corner of the corridor, Priya had been called by the teacher into the art room for one final check of the return gifts meant for the students. The room was quiet, sunlight sneaking in through the half-open windows, paint brushes resting in jars like silent witnesses.
She stood near the table, carefully counting and arranging the packets, muttering softly to herself.
“Okay… A section, B section, C section…” she paused, shifting a few packets. “D walo ka wahan hai… and E, F ka idhar. Okay hai sab,” she whispered, satisfied, dusting her hands as she turned to leave.
Just as she took a step back, her foot slipped.
“Mammy—” she yelped, instinctively closing her eyes.
Before she could fall, strong hands caught her, steady and familiar. Her forehead almost hit a chest, but instead, she felt herself being firmly grounded.
“Relax… main hoon,” Prateek’s calm voice came from above.
Priya’s heart skipped, then immediately raced. She straightened up and glared at him, lightly hitting his chest.
“Aise kaun aata hai? Dara diya aapne mujhe,” she complained, her voice annoyed but shaky.
“Sorry, sorry,” he said quickly, hands raised in surrender, though a smile tugged at his lips.
“Hatiye abhi mujhe kaam hai,” Priya muttered, moving past him toward the door.
But before she could escape, Prateek gently held her wrist and tugged her back.
In the sudden movement, her hands collided with his chest, and instinctively, his other hand went to her waist to steady her. The closeness made her breath hitch, their faces just inches apart.
“Kya kar rahe hain aap? Chhodiye,” Priya said, flustered, her cheeks warming as she tried to pull away.
Instead of letting go, Prateek leaned closer, eyes twinkling with mischief.
“Itna pretty lip gloss hai yaar tumhara,” he murmured. “Kaunsa flavour hai?”
“Ha—hein?” she blinked, confused. “Lip gloss ka flavour bhi hota hai?”
He chuckled softly. “Tumhe nahi pata? Chhodo… main hi bata deta hoon tumko.”
Before she could process his words, he leaned in and pressed his lips lightly against hers brief, soft, yet enough to make Priya forget how to breathe.
The world seemed to pause. When he pulled back, he licked his lips slowly, pretending to think, his brows furrowing dramatically.
“Hmmm…” he hummed. “Strawberry flavour lag raha hai.” Her eyes widened, lips parted in pure shock, words completely lost.
“Next time chocolate lagana,” he added casually. “Mujhe chocolates pasand hain.” Priya just stared at him, stunned, her mouth still half open.
“Muh band kar lo,” he teased softly. “Ya phir… phir se taste karoon?” That snapped her back to reality. She hit his chest lightly, blushing hard.
“Pagal hain aap! Koi dekh leta toh?” she scolded, glaring at him.
“Kisi ne dekha toh nahi na,” he replied with a smirk. She glared at him again, but before she could say anything, he leaned closer.
“Taste chala gaya… let me taste again.”
“Prateek!” she pushed him away firmly. “We are in school right now. Stop it.”
“I’m just craving strawberries yaar,” he said with an exaggerated pout, trying to look innocent. Priya rolled her eyes and stormed out of the art room. Prateek sighed, looking down, slightly disappointed
When suddenly, she turned back. Before he could react, Priya grabbed his collar, pulled him closer, and placed a quick peck on his lips. He froze. Completely.
“Aaj ke liye bas itna hi,” she said with a mischievous smile, eyes sparkling. “Zyada strawberries se diabetes ho jaati hai.”
And just like that, she walked away. Prateek stood there, staring blankly at the empty doorway, his ears burning, lips still tinglingcompletely stunned, completely shy, and completely gone because Priya… just kissed him back.
______________
The farewell party had finally ended.
The decorated hall that was filled with music, laughter, and teary hugs just an hour ago now stood quiet. Teachers stood near the exit, giving last blessings, patting heads, saying “All the best for your future” with soft smiles that somehow made everything feel real.
One by one, the gang took blessings.
“Stay together,” one teacher said warmly.
“Don’t forget us after becoming big people,” another added jokingly.
As they stepped outside the school gates, the evening sky was painted in soft orange and pink. The familiar building behind them suddenly felt heavier… like a chapter closing.
Instead of taking autos or bikes, they decided to walk home together just to stretch the moment a little longer.
Prateek walked on the inner side of the road protectively. Ansh walked on the outer side, alert as always. Between them, Priya and Aditi walked side by side, Priya’s fingers intertwined with Prateek’s, and Aditi’s hand loosely held by Ansh, though he pretended it was just “for safety.”
Ahead of them, Ruhaan, Vivaan, Shagun and Riva walked in a chaotic line, occasionally turning back to include the others in their conversation.
“Farewell bhi khatam ho gaya ab toh…” Priya said softly, her voice carrying a slight sulk as she looked back at the school building one last time.
“Haan…” Aditi sighed, kicking a small pebble on the road. “Pata bhi nahi chala kab saal beet gaya. Itna fast kaise chala gaya sab?”
There was a strange silence for a second.
“Ab hamara farewell hoga next year!” Vivaan suddenly jumped in the air dramatically. “Yayyyyy! Senior banne ki khushiii!” He spread his arms like he had just won an award.
Riva slowly turned her head toward him, raising one eyebrow.
“Pass ho jaoge na?” she asked sweetly. “Ya latak gaye toh failed senior banoge?” The others tried to suppress their laughter.
“Excuse me phoolan devi!” Vivaan placed a hand on his chest in fake offense. ” don’t underestimate the padhai of—”
“Chuha,” Riva cut him off calmly.
There was a two-second pause. Then everyone burst out laughing.
Vivaan looked around in disbelief. “Kya hai yaar! Har baar beizzati karti rehti ho.”
“Toh harkate mat kiya kar na aise tu,” Prateek said casually, not even looking at him.
“Karta hi kya hoon main? Aap hi batao!” Vivaan blocked his way dramatically, hands on hips, demanding justice.
“Side hatt,” Prateek shoved him lightly. “Aur bhi kaam hai hame.”
Ruhaan suddenly exhaled deeply, hands in his pockets.
“Yaar… mann nahi kar raha school se jaane ka,” he admitted honestly, looking ahead at the empty road.
“Toh fail ho jao bhaiya,” Aditi said instantly, grinning.
Shagun smacked Aditi’s arm lightly. “Pagal hai kya? Iska bas chale toh ye sach mein kar de.”
“Nahi nahi!” Ruhaan raised both hands defensively. “Itna bhi bewakoof nahi hoon main. Mammy maar daalengi mujhe.”
That did it. Everyone laughed again. As they continued walking, Aditi suddenly froze mid-step. Her eyes lit up.
“Ice cream khaye kya?” she asked excitedly, already turning toward the roadside.
“Kahan hai ice cream?” Riva squinted.
“Vo raha!” Aditi pointed enthusiastically at the small cart with colorful tubs displayed.
“It’s still cold,” Ansh said immediately, sounding logical as ever. “Tabiyat kharab ho jayegi.”
“Nahi hogi. Aap chup rahiye,” Aditi shot back without even looking at him.
Ruhaan clapped his hands once. “Haan yaar! Ice cream se tera gala nahi baith jayega.” Then dramatically spreading his arms, he announced, “Chalo saare! Meri taraf se farewell treat hai.”
Before he could finish, everyone ran toward the cart. Within minutes, everyone had a cone in their hands. The sound of crunchy bites and satisfied hums filled the air.
Aditi was happily licking her ice cream when her eyes shifted to Ansh’s cone.
“Aapki konsi wali hai?” she asked curiously, leaning slightly toward him.
“Dark chocolate,” he replied simply. She nodded slowly, staring at it for a second longer than necessary.
“Tumhe chahiye?” he asked, extending his cone toward her naturally.
“Nahi nahi!” she shook her head quickly. “Aise hi poocha maine.”
He narrowed his eyes slightly. “Tumhari konsi hai?”
“Meri… ye choco pista hai,” she replied, lifting it up slightly.
“Tasty hai?”
She nodded innocently.
“Dikhao,” he said.
Before she could properly react, he leaned down slightly and took a small bite from her cone. Silence. Complete silence. Aditi froze. Her brain stopped working.
Behind them,
“Hawwwwwww!” Vivaan gasped loudly.
Ruhaan’s jaw dropped. Shagun’s eyes widened. Riva covered her mouth dramatically. Priya blinked twice.
Ansh straightened up, confused. “Kya ho gaya? I just tasted her ice cream. Aise kyun muh bana rahe ho saare?” He looked at Aditi.
“Achhi hai,” he nodded thoughtfully. “Next time main bhi ye lunga.” Aditi was still staring at him, blinking slowly, cheeks heating up.
“Kya hua mujhe bhi batao?” Prateek asked suspiciously, sensing drama.
Vivaan pointed at Ansh dramatically. “Inhone kiss kari sabke samne!”
Ansh choked on his ice cream instantly. “WHAT?!”
“Whatttt?!” Prateek shrieked, turning toward Ansh with sharp eyes.
“Kya pagal hai kya?!” Ansh panicked. “I didn’t even touched her yet! Jhooth kyun bol raha hai tu chuhe!”
“Haan but,” Shagun crossed her arms. “Aapne abhi Aditi ki jhoothi ice cream khayi na?”
“Toh??” he blinked.
“Toh indirect kiss hua,” Ruhaan explained like a professor. “Same spoon, same ice cream, same spot. Basic science.”
“Hein?! Aisa bhi hota hai?” Prateek asked in shock.
Everyone nodded seriously. Ansh’s ears turned red. He looked at Aditi. She looked away immediately.
“Priya, tumne khayi apni ice cream?” Prateek suddenly asked with a suspicious smile. Priya nodded slowly.
“Perfect,” he said.
And before anyone could predict it, he took a big bite from Priya’s ice cream right in front of Ansh.
“Hogaya hisaab barabar,” Prateek said with a crooked grin. Ansh squinted his eyes dangerously.
“Aisi cheezein pehle bataya karo yaar tum log!” Prateek added casually. Ansh lunged toward him.
“Bhaiiii kyaaaa….chhod mujhe!” Prateek shouted, trying to dodge him.
“Tu ne jaan booch ke kiya!” Ansh snapped. “Mujhe pata nahi tha. Galti se ho gaya!”
“Ahahahaaaa!” Prateek laughed loudly while escaping. “Tu kare toh galti, main karu toh gunaah? Bada hypocrite hai bhai tu!”
They started running around the road like idiots while the others just stared.
“Yeh dono nahi sudhrenge,” Riva muttered.
“Inka nahi khatam hone wala,” Ruhaan sighed dramatically. “Chalo bhai, hum chalte hain.”
Shagun shook her head smiling. Priya laughed softly. Vivaan grabbed his cone protectively.
“Bas karo dono ke dono!” Aditi suddenly shouted, her voice sharp enough to slice through their chaos.
Both Ansh and Prateek froze mid-movement. Ansh with his hand half raised to grab Prateek’s collar, and Prateek mid-escape like a criminal caught in action.
For a second, there was complete silence.
“Bhaag yahan se tu… Priya ke paas ja… nikal!” Aditi scolded, pointing her finger at Prateek like an angry school monitor.
Prateek immediately lifted his hands in surrender. “ja rha hoon na” he said dramatically.
But before leaving, he turned and gave Ansh a slow, wicked grin one that clearly said mission successful.
Ansh gritted his teeth, jaw tightening as he watched this absolute maniac walk away casually toward Priya. Then Aditi turned toward Ansh.
“Aur aap…” she crossed her arms. “Kya problem hai aapko?”
Ansh, who was ready to fight a war two seconds ago, now looked like a scolded child. His eyes dropped to the ground.
“He’s teasing me… woh jaan booch ke Priya—”
“Aapki girlfriend main hoon ya bhaiya?” she cut him off instantly. He looked up.
“Tum ho,” he answered without hesitation.
“Toh phir mujhpe dhyaan dijiye na,” she said, stepping closer. “Har baat pe bhaiya ke peeche pad jaate ho.”
“Par woh—”
“Offoooo!” she huffed dramatically. “Kya karu main aapka? Are bhaiya ko chhod dijiye na. Varna bol dijiye, main aap dono ki hi shaadi karwa deti hoon.”
Ansh’s head snapped up so fast it was almost cartoonish.
“Nahi nahi nahi! Chiiii!” he said instantly, making a disgusted face as if someone had suggested the worst possible crime.
ahead them, Ruhaan burst out laughing.
Aditi tried not to smile but failed.
“Toh phir…” she leaned a little closer, eyes narrowing playfully. “Chhodiye unhe. Mujhpe dhyaan dijiye. see how beautiful I am… and how much I love you.”
She poked his chest lightly.
“Par nahi… bhaiya se chipakna hai aapko toh bas.”
“Sorry sorry!” he raised his hands immediately. “Ab nahi chipkunga. Pakka.”
“Hmmm…” she pretended to inspect him seriously. “Good boy. Chaliye ab.”
He finally smiled soft, boyish, slightly embarrassed.
As they resumed walking side by side, their hands brushing occasionally, Ansh looked… unsettled. His mind was replaying something. After a few steps, he cleared his throat.
“Waise…” he said hesitantly. “Is that really an indirect kiss between us?” Aditi looked at him from the corner of her eye. “Aapko kya lagta hai?”
“Mere hisaab se toh nahi,” he said quickly, trying to sound logical. “Because we only shared an ice cream bite. Usse kiss thodi—”
Before he could finish, Aditi suddenly stopped walking. She gently held his hand, making him stop too. Without saying a word, she rose on her toes and placed a soft peck on his cheek.
It was quick. Warm. Real. Ansh froze Completely. His brain shut down. His body stiffened. His breathing stopped for a second.
“Ab hui direct wali kiss?” she asked calmly, looking straight at him.
He stared at her. Mouth slightly open. Eyes wide.
“I… y… k… ye… woh…” was all that came out. Words abandoned him.
“Aap theek ho?” she asked, now genuinely concerned.
He turned around suddenly, closing his eyes, pressing his palm over his chest like he was trying to control something.
“Kya huaaa?” she asked, stepping closer.
“Pleaseeee…” he said dramatically. “Warning de diya karo aisa kuch karne se pehle.”
“Kyu?” she blinked.
“Meri aatma bahar aa jaati hai yaar… samjho,” he muttered, covering his face. His ears were completely red now.
Aditi stared at him for two seconds. And then She burst out laughing. It was not teasing laughter. It was soft, affectionate laughter.
“Itna bhi kya sharma rahe hein aap?” she teased. “Ladki toh main hoon. Sharmana toh mujhe chahiye.”
He turned toward her slowly, still blushing.
___________________________________
London was wrapped in a dull grey evening, rain tapping softly against the glass windows of Aman’s apartment near the university campus. The room heater was on, yet he sat curled on his couch in a hoodie, blanket thrown over his shoulders, laptop open in front of him.
His nose was red. His voice was worse. For the fifth time in just a few months, he had caught a cold.
His phone buzzed. Samaira Calling. A small smile appeared on his tired face as he picked up.
“Hello…” he croaked. There was a two-second silence.
“Aman… what happened to your voice?” Samaira’s tone instantly sharpened.
“Kuch nahi… bas thoda sa cold hai,” he replied casually, trying to downplay it.
“Thoda sa?” she almost snapped. “Yeh fifth time hai, Aman! Fifth time! London gaye ho ya sardi collect karne?” He let out a weak chuckle, which immediately turned into a cough.
“See!” she exclaimed. “You’re still laughing! Do you even take care of yourself?”
“I do yaar,” he protested softly. “Weather hi aisa hai…”
“Weather ko blame mat karo. Sweater pehente ho properly? Timely khana khate ho? Ya bas coffee pe zinda ho?” He stayed quiet.
“Aman?” her voice softened slightly. “Answer me.”
“Sometimes… coffee,” he admitted guiltily.
“Aman!” she scolded again. “Tum bacche ho kya? london main ho to kya soch rhe ho bach jaoge meri dant se?”
He smiled faintly, despite the headache pressing behind his eyes.
“Achha theek hai… ab batao kya karun? Kal presentation hai. I can’t even speak properly.” He sniffed, rubbing his nose with a tissue. There was a pause on the other end. He could almost picture her pacing in her room, worried.
“First of all,” she began firmly, “abhi turant kitchen mein jao.”
“Abhi?” he whined weakly.
“Haan abhi. Haldi doodh banao.”
He made a face. “Yaar…”
“No arguments. Garam doodh mein half teaspoon haldi daalo. Thoda sa black pepper ho toh woh bhi. It will help.”
He sighed dramatically. “Theek hai, doctor sahiba.”
“And listen carefully,” she continued, ignoring his comment. “Cold medicine li hai?”
“Haan… par irregular.”
“Aman!”
“Okay okay, I’ll take it properly.”
“Abhi lo. And after drinking haldi doodh, take the medicine and sleep for at least one hour.”
“One hour!!? Presentation banaana hai.”
“Presentation tab banaoge jab theek hoge,” she replied firmly. “Abhi rest karo. Nap lo. Body ko recover karne do.”
He leaned back against the couch, closing his eyes for a moment. Her voice even through a phone felt warmer than the heater.
“And please,” she added softly, “apna khayal rakha karo. Main har baar itni tension mein nahi reh sakti.”
There it was. The concern beneath the scolding. He smiled gently.
“Tum itni tension leti kyun ho?” he asked quietly.
“Kyuki…” she paused. “Bas leti hoon. Theek hai?”
He didn’t tease her this time. “Theek hai,” he replied softly.
There was a brief silence filled only by his light breathing and the distant sound of rain outside his window.
“Voice bilkul baith gayi hai tumhari,” she murmured. “Kal presentation kaise doge?”
“Dekhenge,” he said weakly.
“Nahi, dekhenge nahi,” she corrected. “Aaj proper rest. Subah uth ke garam pani se gargle karna. Phir try karna rehearse karne ka. Agar zyada problem ho toh professor ko mail kar dena.”
“Mail?” he sounded hesitant.
“Health first, Aman.”
He smiled again.
“Tum hoti na yahan…” he said absentmindedly.
“Main hoti toh?” she asked quietly.
“Toh shayad itni baar cold nahi hota.”
Her heartbeat skipped at that.
“Filhaal main phone pe hi hoon,” she said gently. “Toh meri baat suno. Kitchen jao.”
He slowly stood up, blanket still wrapped around him, and walked toward the small kitchen counter.
_________________________________________
Time had moved forward quietly.
Farewell had faded into photographs and saved reels. Laughter-filled corridors had turned into silent libraries. Late-night group calls were now replaced with revision schedules and countdowns.
And now, Final board exams were here.
At Ansh’s house, everything felt unusually still. Even the ticking of the wall clock sounded louder than usual. His room door was slightly open. Inside, the space reflected him perfectly organized, disciplined, controlled.
Physics textbook open. Formula sheets aligned. Sticky notes pasted neatly across the wall. A rough notebook filled with derivations.
Ansh sat hunched over his desk, pen resting between his fingers, eyes scanning a question but not really reading it. The warm light of the table lamp cast shadows across his face, highlighting the tension in his jaw.
He had always been the composed one. The responsible one. The one others relied on. A soft knock interrupted the silence. He didn’t look up immediately.
“Come in,” he said absentmindedly.
The door opened gently.
Aditi peeked in first hesitant, careful before stepping inside. She wore a simple pastel kurti, her hair tied in a loose ponytail, a small tiffin box held close to her chest like it carried something important.
He looked up. And something in his expression softened instantly.
“Hii,” she said softly.
He blinked once, as if adjusting from formulas to reality.
“Tum?” he said, surprise mixing with quiet relief.
“Haan… main.”
She stepped inside properly and pushed the door halfway shut not fully closed, not fully open. Just enough.
“Disturb toh nahi kiya na?” she asked gently, glancing at his open books. He leaned back in his chair slightly.
“Nahi nahi… bolo.”
“Sach mein?”She studied his face carefully.
“Sach mein.”He gave a faint smile.
She walked closer to the study table, observing the organized chaos.
“So much padhai,” she murmured.
“Kal first board hai na… physics ka,” he replied simply.
There was a small silence. But not empty. She noticed it then. The way his shoulders were stiff. The way he inhaled slightly deeper than normal.
“Sab theek hai na?” she asked softly. He didn’t answer immediately.
For a few seconds, he just looked at her. Not as Head Boy. Not as the future NDA aspirant. Just as Ansh.
“Thoda sa…” he admitted quietly. “Nervous hoon.” The word felt heavy coming from him. Aditi blinked. He gave a small, almost embarrassed smile.
“Pata nahi kyun. Itna padh liya hai. Preparation bhi theek hai. Phir bhi darr lag raha hai. Upar se last kuch years se physics ka paper utt patang hi aa raha hai… toh bas…”
His voice was steady, but she could see what he wasn’t saying. Expectations. Pressure. The silent need to not fail anyone.
“Boards important hote hain,” he continued. “Physics score NDA mein bhi matter karta hai.”
Before he could spiral further She stepped closer. and cupped his cheeks
“Idhar dekhiye,” she said gently. He looked up.
“Aapne acche se padhai ki hai na?” she asked He nodded.
“Haan… ki toh hai.”
She tilted her head slightly. “Toh phir? itni tension kyu?”
He sighed softly. “Bas… ho hi jaati hai tension.”
Without another word, she reached forward and ruffled his hair. He froze.
“Isha…” he muttered under his breath, but there was no real protest in his voice. She smiled.
“You know what your problem is?” sh said
“Kya?”
“Aap bohot overthink karte ho.”
He exhaled slowly. “Kya karu… ho hi jaati hai tension.”
“Haan haan, Mr. Responsible. Head Boy jo hain aap,” she teased softly. “Par usse pehle aap ek homo sapien bhi hai.”
He couldn’t help but smile faintly at that. “I know…”
She softened. “You’ve worked hard,” she continued. “Honestly padhai ki hai. Toh ek tuchh paper aapka kya hi bigaad lega?”
He looked at her still unsure, but listening. She bent slightly so she was at his eye level now.
“And even if paper tough bhi hua… you’ll handle it.” Her voice wasn’t loud. It wasn’t dramatic. It was steady. Certain. Grounded. And something about that certainty eased the tension in his shoulders.
She placed her palm gently on his head again, smoothing his hair properly this time.
“Best of luck,” she whispered. And before he could react She leaned forward and placed a soft kiss on his forehead. It carried belief. Support. Pride.
Ansh stopped breathing for a second. His eyes closed instinctively. Not because of the kiss alone But because of what it meant.
When she pulled back, she noticed the faint redness spreading to his ears. He opened his eyes slowly and looked at her.
“Aisi best wishes har exam mein milegi kya?” he asked, a mischievous glint returning.
“Of course,” she replied happily.
The tension in the room had shifted now. It wasn’t heavy anymore. It was warm. She pointed to the tiffin box. “Aur haan, ye kha lijiyega.”
“Isme kya hai?” he asked.
“Kuch chocolates… aur thoda sa cheesecake.”
He blinked. “Isha… main mota ho jaunga. Itni chocolate mat laya karo.”
She gasped dramatically. “Aise kaise? Dark chocolate hai. It’s good for memory. Tabhi laati hoon. Nahi khani toh bata dijiye… aage se nahi laungi.”
There was mock offense in her tone, but her eyes betrayed the affection.
“Arey nahi nahi,” he said quickly, almost panicking. “Main toh mazaak kar raha tha. Thank you.”
He smiled at her. And this smile was different. Less stressed. More him.
“Achha… main jaati hoon ab. Aap padhai kijiye,” she said softly.
For a moment, neither moved.
Then she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around him gently. He responded instantly.His arms went around her waist, pulling her closer without hesitation. The hug wasn’t long. But it was grounding.
His chin rested lightly over her shoulder. For a brief second, the world outside his room didn’t exist. She pulled back slowly.
“Byee…” she smiled.
Then, softer”All the best.”
He looked at her. There was pride in her eyes. Belief. And something deeper that didn’t need words.
She walked toward the door. Just before stepping out, she glanced back once. He was still looking at her. Not anxious anymore. Not tense. Just quietly steady.
__________________
The board exams had finally ended. Not just ended gone well.
The kind of “went well” that doesn’t need overconfidence, but leaves a quiet relief in the chest. The group had celebrated with cold coffee and endless teasing, but now life was slowly shifting toward “what next?”
That evening, the sky was painted in soft lavender and fading gold as Ruhaan walked beside Shagun toward her home. The roads were calmer, trees swaying lightly in the evening breeze.
Ruhaan wasn’t cracking jokes every ten seconds. His hands were tucked into his pockets, walking slightly slower than usual to match her pace.
Shagun glanced at him from the corner of her eye.
“So…” she began casually, “boards khatam. Ab future ke baare mein kya socha hai?”
Ruhaan exhaled through his nose. “Haan matlab… socha hai.”
“Detail mein batao kya socha hai?,” she nudged him lightly.
He grinned faintly. “Boards mein to achhe number aa hi jayenge,” he said confidently. “Plus sports quota laga ke KKW College mein admission le lunga.”
“KKW?” she asked.
“Haan, kaafi achha exposure hai waha sports ka. Proper ground, tournaments, networking… waha se football journey continue rakhunga.”
His eyes lit up slightly when he spoke about football.
That spark Shagun noticed it every time.
“And course?” she asked.
He shrugged casually. “Koi easiest wala le lunga.”
She stopped walking. He took two more steps before realizing she wasn’t beside him anymore.
“Arre?” he turned. “Kya hua?”
She crossed her arms. “Easiest wala?”
“Haan toh? Time football ko dena hai na. Degree to bas naam ki.”
She stared at him for a few seconds. Then resumed walking.
“Ruhaan,” she said calmly, “You’re also your parents’ only child.”
That made him quieter. He glanced at her. She continued gently. “Uncle ka business hai. One day, you’ll have to look after it.”
He sighed lightly. “Haan pata hai… par business mera passion nahi hai.”
“maine kab bola usko apna passion banao, I’m not saying give up football,” she replied immediately. “Never. I know what it means to you.”
Her voice softened. “But balance karna seekho.” He looked ahead, listening now.
“If you take Business Studies,” she continued thoughtfully, “you’ll understand basics. Finance, management, marketing. Football ke saath saath papa ka kaam bhi samajh paoge.” He didn’t respond immediately.
She went on”Dekho, bhagwan ji na kare ki kal ko agar koi injury ho jaye… or something unexpected happens… backup hona chahiye na?”
He hated when she was practical. Because she was always right.
“And waise bhi,” she added lightly, “business samajhoge toh apni football academy bhi khol sakte ho future mein.”
That made him look at her again.
“Academy…” he repeated slowly.
“Hmm,” she nodded. “Dream big. Par smart bhi raho.”
He was quiet for a few seconds. The wind brushed past them.
“You really think I can manage both?” he asked, this time without jokes.
She looked at him directly. “100 percent.”
That confidence. That steady belief. It did something to him. He smiled slowly.
“Bandi toh kaafi samajhdaar mili hai,” he said, shaking his head lightly.
She tried to suppress her smile. “Obviously.”
He stepped slightly closer as they walked. “Aise hi rehna mere saath,” he added softly. “Guide karte rehna.”
There was no teasing in his tone this time. Just sincerity. She glanced at him.
“Main guide karti rahungi,” she said gently. “Par kaam tumhe khud karna hoga.”
“Kar lunga,” he replied.
Then, after a pause “Par tum saath rehna.”
She didn’t answer immediately. Instead, she nudged his shoulder lightly.
“apne hanie ko chod ke thodi jaungi kahii.”
He laughed. The tension dissolved. But inside Ruhaan felt something steady settle in his heart. Football was his dream. But Shagun She was the voice that made his dreams practical.
__________________
Night had settled softly over the city. Streetlights glowed faintly outside Aditi’s balcony. The world felt slower after weeks of chaos, preparation, and pressure.
Boards were done. Results were awaited. And somewhere in the middle of all that Dreams were beginning to feel real.
Aditi lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling, phone pressed to her ear. On the other side, Ansh was on his balcony, leaning against the railing, cool night breeze brushing against his face.
There was something different in their talks tonight. It wasn’t playful. It wasn’t restless. It was… thoughtful. After a pause, Aditi spoke.
“Aapke mama bohot brave honge na?” she asked in full excieted tone.
Ansh frowned slightly. “Haan… kyun?”
She smiled to herself. “Tabhi toh…he pulled a charming boy like you in army.” He blinked. For a second, he forgot how to respond.
“Isha…” he muttered, trying to sound composed but failing to hide the blush spreading across his face.
“Sach hi to bol rahi hoon,” she continued innocently. “Brave aur dashing toh honge hi… tabhi toh unse inspire hoye ho aap vrna bhaiya ke sath rehte to kya hi hote aap…eww”
He chuckeled at her ridiculous remarks
“Abhi time hai jaane mein,” he tried to deflect. “Tum toh abhi se mujhe NDA mein bhejna chah rahi ho.” She turned to her side, hugging her pillow.
“Reh hi kitne din gaye hain?” she said quietly. “Abhi 10 din mein exam doge aap. Clear kar loge. Phir 4 mahine mein phurr se udd jaoge Pune.”
Her voice softened slightly. “Mujhe chhod ke.”
The breeze on Ansh’s balcany suddenly felt colder. He looked up at the sky.
“Tumhe chhodna to…” he said slowly, “…ab bohot mushkil ho gaya hai.”
There was no teasing in his tone. Just truth. On the other side of the call, Aditi’s heartbeat stumbled.
“Kyuu?” she asked softly. “Itna pyaar ho gaya hai mujhse?”
He didn’t laugh. Instead, he answered quietly “Kisi ko tumse pyaar kaise nahi hoga?” Silence. Heavy. Warm. She pressed her lips together, trying to stop her smile.
“Achha ji…” she whispered, cheeks heating up. He could imagine her blushing.
“I’m serious,” he added gently. “Tum ho hi aisi.”
For a moment, neither of them spoke. The future lingered between them. Unspoken but present. After a few seconds, Ansh’s voice shifted slightly. “Isha…”
“Hmmm?” she hummed
“When I’ll leave for training…” he started hesitantly.
She swallowed. “Haan?”
“Please don’t cry” The request was soft. Careful. Almost protective. She immediately straightened up.
“I don’t cry that easily” aditi prtested.
He smiled faintly. “Jhoothi.”
“Sachi!” she insisted. “Main strong hoon.”
“I know tum strong ho,” he replied. “Bas… mujhe weak mat karna. agar tum royi to main ja nhi paunga” Her throat tightened at that. She stared at the dark ceiling.
“Main ek bhi aansu nahi bahaungi,” she said firmly. “Promise.”
“Pakki baat?” he confirmed
“Bilkul pakki. Aapko smile deke bhejungi.” aditi said with a weak smile.
He chuckled softly. He leaned back against the railing, eyes soft. Night had grown quieter. The world outside their windows had fallen asleep… but their call was still connected. Neither of them wanted to cut it.
Ansh leaned back on railing, phone pressed to his ear. “Achha… enough about NDA and my future. Tell me about yours.”
“My future?” she repeated.
“Haan. What do you want to become?” he asked A small pause.
“I want to become a doctor.” she replied.
Ansh’s brows knitted instantly. “Doctor?” He sounded genuinely surprised. “Why? I thought dancing was your dream. You love it so much.”
She smiled softly. “Dancing is my hobby, It makes me happy… but doctor banna is something else.”
He turned serious. “Some Special reason?”
Silence. And then her voice changed. Softer. Slower. “Haan.” Ansh immediately sensed the shift. He didn’t interrupt.
“You remember… that incident,” she said quietly.
His jaw tightened. Of course he remembered. He wished he didn’t.
“When I was in the hospital… I was scared all the time. Everything felt strange. I didn’t trust anyone. But there was this one female doctor… she used to come and sit beside me. She wouldn’t even talk much. Bas haath pakad leti thi.”
Ansh’s fingers curled around his phone.
“She made me feel safe. Like… nothing bad could touch me when she was there. She felt like a superhero to me. Not because she treated me. But because she saw me. She didn’t look at me with pity.”
Her voice trembled slightly but she controlled it.
“That day I decided… I want to become like her. I want someone who’s scared to feel safe because I’m there. I want to save people. It gives me… a feeling of goodness. Like I’m meant for something.”
There was a long silence from Ansh’s side. He wasn’t just listening. He was feeling every word. Pride swelled inside his chest so strongly it almost hurt.
“i wish i could also meet her,” he said softly, “the doctor who gave you this much strength.”
She blinked but then chuckled. “she is in bhopal…i’ll make you meet her… pakka”
“You’ll do anything for others na, Even if it costs you. Even if it hurts you. You don’t even think twice….that’s why you’re my Isha” There was so much admiration in his tone that it made her cheeks burn.
she groaned lightly, trying to hide her blush. “Itna bhi cheesy line mat boliye. Mujhe hassi aa jaati hai.”
He chuckled, relieved that she had lightened the moment. “Main seriously bol raha hoon.”
“Haan haan, pata hai mujhe,” she teased. He laughed quietly.
But inside? inside, he felt something else. She wanted to heal people. And he wanted to protect them. Maybe that’s why their dreams didn’t clash.
They completed each other. After a small pause, he spoke again. “I’m proud of you Isha” No teasing. No jokes. Just truth. She went quiet.
“Sach main?” she whispered.
“Hmm. Bohot.” Her heart did that stupid little flip again.
“Then you better clear NDA,” she replied softly. “Doctor ki security strong honi chahiye.”
He smirked. “Doctor ki security to already booked hai na.”
“Achha? kaise booked hai?” she asked teasingly
“Meri lifetime security service ka subscription hai to tumhare paas.” he said with a teasing tone.
She rolled her eyes, smiling to herself. “really” she teased more.
“ofcourse kisi aur ko ye service ka mauka mat dena I’m telling you main naraz ho jaunga vrna” ansh said in mock offence.
“theek hai sirrr….jaisa aap kahein” aditi said lightly with a chuckle.
____________________
Prateek’s room was unusually silent. Except for the constant clicking of his mouse. And the loud beating of his own heart.
He sat in front of his laptop, screen reflecting in his anxious eyes. The application portal of a top most university of Bengaluru was open the university he had dreamed of for years.
Ruhaan was pacing behind him. “Refresh kar na!”
“I am refreshing!” Prateek snapped nervously.
Ansh stood with folded arms, pretending to be calm but watching the screen closely. Aditi and Shagun were sitting on the bed, whispering prayers under their breath. Priya stood right beside Prateek’s chair, fingers twisted together.
He refreshed again.
Loading…
Loading…
And then,
Server Error.
“What the—” Ruhaan groaned loudly. “hadd hai bhaiii?!”
Aditi flopped back dramatically. “Yeh bhi na… result wale din hi crash hona tha.”
Shagun sighed. “Sab log check kar rahe honge ek saath.”
Prateek rubbed his forehead, stress rising. “Great. Just great.”
Ansh checked the time. “It’ll take time to fix. thodi der baad check kario”
One by one, with dramatic complaints and frustrated sighs, they slowly left the room. Soon, it was quiet.
Priya pulled the chair beside him and sat down softly. He stared blankly at the crashed page.
“Prateek…” she said gently.
He let out a shaky breath. “What if they reject me?”
She frowned instantly. “Why would they?”
“What if I’m not enough?” His voice dropped. “What if all this hard work wasn’t enough? Papa already thinks I should’ve done NDA. If I don’t get into this college…” He swallowed. “He’ll be more disappointed.”
The vulnerability in his voice made her heart ache.
Without warning, she lightly smacked his arm. “Stop it.”
He blinked at her.
“Harr baar negative kyun sochte ho ?” she scolded softly but firmly. “Har situation mein worst-case scenario hi imagine karte ho. Kabhi positive bhi soch liya karo.”
He looked down. “I’m just being realistic.”
“No. You’re being scared.” That hit him.
She leaned forward, her voice steady. “You worked so hard for this. I’ve seen you study till 3 a.m. I’ve seen you give up outings. I’ve seen how serious you were. Agar koi deserve karta hai na… it’s you.”
His eyes flickered toward her.
“And even if,” she continued, “even if by some stupid chance they reject you… that won’t define you. Samjhe aap? Ek college decide nahi karta aapki worth.”
He didn’t respond. So she gently turned his chair toward her. “Look at me.” He did.
“You will get selected,” she said with complete confidence. “Bas believe in yourself. Agar aap khud pe doubt karoge na, toh usse bura kuch nahi hoga.”
Her words weren’t loud. But they were powerful. Something inside him steadied.
“You really think I’ll get in?” he asked quietly.
She smiled. “I don’t think. I know.”
He stared at her for a second longer than necessary. But because of how easily she stood by him.
“Thank you,” he whispered.
She rolled her eyes lightly. “Ab thank you mat boliye. Refresh kariye.”
______________________
Ansh’s room was dimly lit. Books scattered. Notes open. Highlighters uncapped. The NDA exam was tomorrow. And for the first time in days… the confident Ansh looked nervous.
He leaned back in his chair, running a hand through his hair.
“What if I mess up the maths section?”
“What if my time management goes wrong?”
“What if—”
His phone buzzed. He ignored it at first. Then it buzzed again. With a sigh, he picked it up.
Aditi 💫
His heart automatically softened. He opened the chat. And froze.
It was a sticker. But not a normal one. It was her face. Her own picture cheeks puffed, brows narrowed in fake anger, finger pointing toward the camera like she was scolding him.
And on top of it she had written:
“Sone jaaiye, Mr. Overthinker 😡💤”
He blinked. Then laughed softly. She looked adorably cute. Hair slightly messy. Eyes big and dramatic. Lips pressed in exaggerated annoyance. The kind of expression that could melt wars.
His tension…Vanished. Another message popped up.
“Kal sirf NDA ka exam hai, duniya ka the end nahi. Stop overthinking and sleep.”
He stared at the sticker again. Zoomed in slightly. But his lips wouldn’t stop smiling. How did she always know when he was spiraling? He pressed and reacted with a ❤️ to her message.
Almost immediately, she replied:
“Good. Ab phone side mein rakhiye.”
He shook his head, amused.
“Yes ma’am,” he whispered. He closed his books. Turned off the lamp. And lay down on his bed. For a moment, he just stared at the ceiling.
Then he opened the chat one last time. Looked at her cute scolding face again. Saved the sticker to favourites. Locked his phone. Placed it beside his pillow. A soft smile stayed on his lips.
________________________
The house was silent. it was 12 am. Clock ticking. Lights dim. Riva was just about to switch off her lamp when her balcony curtain moved.
Before she could process anything A shadow jumped inside. She inhaled sharply to scream But a hand instantly covered her mouth.
“Shhh! Main hoon!” Vivaan whispered urgently. “Chillao mat!”
Her eyes widened in fury. She pushed his hand away. “Tum pagal ho kya?! Iss waqt? Mere room mein?!”
He adjusted his hoodie like he had done nothing wrong. “Relax. i’m here for some important work”
“Kaunsa important kaam hai to tum aise choro ki tarah ghuse ho mere room main?” she snapped.
He grinned shamelessly. “Kuch dikhana tha.”
“Abhi? Raat ke 12 baje?”
But he wasn’t even listening anymore. His attention had drifted. He looked around her room like a curious child.
Fairy lights. Soft cushions. Tiny plants. Stuffed toys arranged neatly. He gasped dramatically. “Tumhara room to poora Pinterest board hai yaar”
Before she could react, he jumped onto her bed. And bounced.
“Arey wah!” he exclaimed, bouncing again. “Mattress bhi cloud jaisa soft hai!”
“Vivaan!” she whisper-yelled. “Utro neeche!” But he bounced again.
“tum bura na maano to… main yahin shift ho jaata hoon.”
She grabbed a pillow and hit him. He flopped down laughing then his eyes landed on her study shelf.
Childhood pictures. Tiny Riva in two ponytails. Missing teeth smile. Oversized frock. He walked closer.
“Awww,” he cooed dramatically. “Yeh kaun hai? Mini chudail?”
She froze. He picked up one frame.
“Back then you were cute,” he smirked. “Abhi toh chudail bn chuki ho.”
Before he could finish She stormed behind him. Grabbed his collar. And yanked him backwards so hard he stumbled and landed sharply on her study chair.
He blinked, stunned. She leaned forward, glaring. “Doob ke mar kyun nahi jaate tum kahin?”
For a second, something in his expression changed. He looked at her. Then, softly “Tumhari aankhon ne toh kab ka maar dala mujhe.”
She went completely still. Her grip loosened. Her brain stopped working for two seconds. He realized what he just said.
“Matlab ” he quickly corrected himself, straightening up, “I mean… your anger. It’s lethal. Lethal anger.”
She narrowed her eyes suspiciously.
“Drama band karo. Kyun aaye ho?”
His expression shifted. Playful to serious. He pulled out his phone.
“I wasn’t here to annoy you.”
She crossed her arms. “Hard to believe.”
He unlocked his screen and handed it to her.
“Yeh dekh.”
Instagram chats. A girl’s fake profile. And messages. From Shivank. Her heartbeat slowed. Then sped up. She scrolled. Flirty messages.Meeting plans.Compliments.Promises.Her hands trembled slightly.
“Yeh… kya hai?”
Vivaan’s jaw tightened.
“Fake ID banayi thi maine. Just to check him.”
She looked up, shocked. “Tumne kya kiya?”
“Test kiya usko.”
Silence. He continued calmly, “He’s been texting this ‘girl’ for a week. Planning to meet her.”
Riva’s chest felt heavy.
“No… this can’t be real.”
Vivaan leaned back confidently. “tumhare samne sab kuch hai now it’s your choice to believe it or just….let him fool you”
She looked at him. Eyes searching.
“Ek baar confirm karna hai mujhe,” she said quietly.
He smirked but not mockingly. Assured.” okay…i’ll proove it to you as well” Her fingers tightened around his phone.
Vivaan said steadily. “par don’t be like those girls who are fools in love be practical this time…that’s how you are”
She looked at him. He moved toward the balcony . Before stepping out, he glanced back.
“good night chudeil.”
And just like that He disappeared into the night. Riva stood in the middle of her room.
__________________
That’s all for this chapter…. hope you enjoyed it.✨
Don’t forget to vote and leave your comments.🫶
Lots of love ♥️
~Prachi💌
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