It was the first day of high school. As Riya stepped onto the campus, a wave of emotions washed over her. The hallways buzzed with students reuniting after summer break, laughter echoing off the walls. She took a deep breath, reminding herself that everyone else was just as nervous as she was.

She picked up all her courage and walked into the classroom, her heart pounding. As she had joined mid-semester, she felt like an outsider. She sat quietly in the back, blending into the background and observing her new surroundings without the pressure of being in the spotlight. She wanted to take her own time to adjust, and she was grateful for the anonymity.

However, a girl sitting next to Riya turned and exclaimed, "Hey everyone! We have a new face in class!" her heart raced as her attention shifted towards her. The girl continued with a playful tone, "Come on, let's give her a warm welcome! What's your name, and what's something fun about you?"

Before she could respond, their professor, who had been busy organizing his notes, looked up and noticed the commotion. With a kind smile, he said, "Oh, I'm so sorry! I didn't realize we had a new student. Please, would you like to introduce yourself to the class?"

Feeling the spotlight on her, Riya took a deep breath. The warmth of her classmates' smiles and the professor's encouraging nod eased her nerves. She stood up and introduced herself, sharing her name and a quirky fact about her  love for collecting vintage postcards. As she spoke, laughter and friendly banter filled the room. Riya was relieved as it turned into an unexpected opportunity to connect.

After a long day, Riya finally stepped into her dorm room, she dropped her bag by the door and flopped onto the bed. She was thinking about how her 1st day went well somehow. Just then, her roommate walked in. She was the same girl who had brought her into the spotlight during class, and to her surprise she approached her with a warm hug. "Hi! I'm Sarah. Your roommate "she said cheerfully, her smile was lighting up the room. They quickly struck up a conversation, sharing their hometowns and interests. 

As they continued to chat, they found common ground and laughter flowed easily between them. Then Sarah suggested they explore the campus together. After finishing, they sat on a bench, watching the sky change colors. Riya pulled out her phone to take a picture. "We have to remember this moment!" she said, grinning widely. Sarah couldn't help but smile back and posed.

One day, feeling particularly stressed, Riya turned to Sarah and said, "Hey, do you want to go shopping with me? It's the only thing that really helps her unwind." Sarah smiled and immediately agreed, sensing that they needed a break from the chaos of high school life.

As they strolled through the shops, they chatted about everything from classes to their favorite clothes. The vibrant atmosphere around them lifted their spirits, and Riya felt more at ease. Shopping has become a fun escape. Sarah encouraged Riya to try on different outfits, and they laughed at some of the ridiculous choices they made.

While Sarah and Riya were shopping, they decided to take a different path through the store, exploring the sections they usually overlooked. As Riya browsed through some clothes, she noticed a guy enthusiastically helping a girl pick out an outfit. He was attentive and seemed genuinely invested in her choices. She couldn't help but wonder who that lucky girl was, having such a charming guy by her side. But then, the girl stepped out of the fitting room. To her surprise, it was his mother! Riya chuckled at herself.

Just as Riya was about to turn back to the racks, a little voice in her head piped up," just look at him". He is tall, not overly muscular-his build is healthy and athletic, with just enough toned muscle to show that he takes care of himself. His features are uniquely attractive, with a friendly smile that lights up his face. What really stands out are his sparkling eyes. His style is laid-back yet stylish." Is he still single?"

The thought made her blush, and she quickly glanced back at him. He caught her eye for a moment, and her heart skipped a beat. After getting caught off guard, she felt her heart pounding, and she quickly rushed to Sarah. 

After finishing shopping, Riya and Sarah returned to the dorm, and Riya felt a wave of happiness wash over her. She turned to Sarah with a big smile, expressing her gratitude for spending such a wonderful day together. "Thank you for being the best shopping buddy!" And we should definitely keep doing this. They both chuckled.

But just as she was basking at the moment, a voice piped up in her head, teasingly asking, "Where can i find him?" She couldn't help but chuckle at the thought, realizing that even amidst her gratitude, her mind was still wandering back to that charming guy. It was funny how quickly her thoughts shifted, but it only added to the excitement of the day.

In order to avoid overwhelming thoughts, she indulged in her assignment, then drifted off to sleep, but soon she felt like someone was holding her tightly from behind, her arms pinned down. She tried to call out for her mom, but no words came out;she was completely frozen in fear. Just when the panic was at its peak, she suddenly woke up, heart racing and breathless.

Having been dealing with sleep paralysis for about 3–4 months now, sharing it with anyone seemed impossible. It had become her little secret, an insecurity that she carried alone. Each night, as she drifted off to sleep, she felt a mix of dread and anxiety, knowing that she might wake up trapped in her own body again, unable to scream or move. The thought of being judged kept her silent. So she kept her struggles hidden, feeling more isolated with each passing day. 

Riya glanced over at Sarah, she was peacefully sleeping beside her. Needing a breath of fresh air, Riya quietly slipped out onto the balcony. Standing there, she looked up at the stars, wishing for relief from the grip of her nightmares and hoping for a peaceful night's sleep soon.

The next morning everything seemed to go wrong. Riya and sarah  woke up late,they scrambled to get ready for class. As they dashed into the classroom, breathless and disheveled,they couldn't help but laugh at the chaos of their morning.During the break,they recounted their frantic rush, joking about how they both looked like a mess. "I can't believe we made it just in time!" Riya laughed, shaking her head.

Just then,she noticed a guy across the corridor.Her heart skipped a beat; he was the same guy she had seen at the mall yesterday.Before she could gather her thoughts and respond to the situation The bell rang.Soon, the hallway erupted into a flurry of movement as everyone rushed to their classrooms.

As Riya n the unknown guy passed each other, their eyes locked for a brief moment.She could feel her cheeks flush , By the time Riya snapped back to reality, she realized she was late for her next class.She hurriedly made her way, replaying that glance in her head, the thrill of the encounter making her forget about the ticking clock.

Sarah immediately noticed Riya's distracted demeanor. "Who was that guy you were staring at?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.Riya told her about the brief encounter she had with him yesterday at the mall.

Intrigued, Sarah suggested finding out more about him. She pulled out her phone and started searching for him on social media. After a bit of digging, they finally stumbled upon his profile and discovered his name: Jason. Excitement bubbled up as they scrolled through his pictures and posts.

Then, found out about a party he was attending that night with a bunch of other friends. Riya and Sarah exchanged looks, a plan forming in their minds. "We have to go to that party!" Sarah exclaimed.

It was evening filled with anticipation as Riya and Sarah prepared for the party that Jason would be attending. Jason was the reason Riya was both excited and nervous. The party was organized by Noah, Jason's best friend.

They drove to the venue, the air buzzing with the thrill of the unknown. Upon entering, Riya felt a wave of nervousness. Her eyes looked around in search of Jason There he was, amidst his friends, laughing and enjoying himself, and her heart raced at the sight.

Fortunately, Sarah's friend Layla and Jason's best friend Noah were from the same club, making it easier for them to navigate the social scene. With a bit of encouragement, they made their way closer to Jason.

As Riya navigated through the bustling crowd the noise of the party dimmed.As she stood in front of Jason, the world around them faded into a soft blur, leaving just the two of them in focus.

Riya smiled, feeling a rush of warmth and excitement. She said

"Hey, I'm Riya" (her voice was steady despite the fluttering in her chest.)

He looked at her with a spark of curiosity in his eyes. He replied

"I'm Jason, It's nice to finally meet you." Layla told us that you would join our party. I'm glad u came !"

Riya continued, trying to keep the conversation flowing.

"You seem to be the life of the party." Jason chuckled softly, his gaze never leaving Riya."Only because I'm surrounded by great people," he said, his tone was playful

They exchanged introductions.In that moment, under the dim glow of the party lights, Riya felt like they had created their own little world, one filled with possibilities and the promise of something more. and all she could focus on was his smile and the way their conversation flowed effortlessly. Just as Riya was about to share a laugh, Sarah suddenly appeared, playfully nudging her back to reality.

"Hey! Come on, we need you back in the game!" she called out, pulling Riya away from her moment with Jason.Riya glanced back at jason, a hint of disappointment in her eyes, but he smiled encouragingly, as if to say it was okay.

As Riya rejoined the group, she was introduced to Jason's friend Nick, who had a friendly demeanor and quickly jumped into the conversation. Then Riya and Sarah approached Noah where Layla made the introduction "Meet Mr. Noah is one of the most genuine and kind guys I know." She paused for a moment, glancing at Noah with admiration. "It's surprising, really. Despite being the most sought-after guy at our school, he's never been in a relationship. It's like he's waiting for something real."Noah smiled warmly at them. Looking genuinely apologetic, he said

"Hey, I'm really sorry I couldn't invite you  personally to the party". "I promise I'll never miss a chance to invite you both again. It's great to finally meet you guys !

"Sarah chimed in, "No worries at all! We're happy to be here." Thankyou.

Just then, Layla interjected with a playful smirk, "Look who's forgetting to thank me for bringing them here!"

Noah laughed."You're right, Layla! Thank you for being the ultimate wingman and making sure they got the invite. I owe you one!"

Riya chuckled at their banter, feeling the friendly vibe between all of them. It was clear that this night was going to be memorable, and she was glad to be part of it.Just as she was settling into the atmosphere,sound of laughter signaled the start of a "spin the bottle"game.All of them joined the circle, excitement mingling with nerves. As the game progressed, Riya was lost in her thoughts, unknowingly biting her lips in anticipation. When she finally looked up, she caught Jason's gaze locked onto her. Her heart raced as he slowly shifted his focus from her eyes to her lips, leaving her breathless and wondering what might happen next.

As they all gathered in a circle, excitedly playing spin the bottle. The laughter and anticipation filled the air, but Riya felt a whirlwind of possibilities racing through her mind. She couldn't help but think about what would happen if the bottle landed in her direction, especially with Jason sitting across from her."The mere thought of his lips on her sent shivers down her spine, and she couldn't meet his gaze again.One by one, the others took their turns, kissing each other without a second thought. Sarah and Nick shared a quick peck, followed by Layla and Jay, their laughter was echoing in the room.

Just when Riya might have to take her turn, the atmosphere shifted. Everyone's attention was suddenly drawn to the excitement near the pool. shouts and splashes filled the air, and in an instant, the game was forgotten as everyone rushed to see what was happening. Relieved to escape the situation Riya also followed them, leaving the game behind.

As she walked towards the pool, lost in her thoughts, she felt a sudden grip on her hand. Before she could fully process what was happening, she was pulled into a dimly lit room. It was Jason.!?

His dominance was palpable, "Jason, what—?" Her question was cut off as his lips crashed into her, a storm that left no room for consent,With a low growl, he deepened the kiss, his tongue

demanding entry,His hand snaked around her waist, pulling her against him. She could feel the urgent press of his arousal, a tangible testament to his need claiming her with an aggression that left her knees weak and heart pounding.*

"Jason, stop!" She managed to gasp out,her hands pressing against his chest in a desperate attempt to break free. With a forceful shove, she managed to create some distance between them.

What the hell are you doing? She demanded.But he didn't answer;he pulled her closer again,We've got unfinished business, Riya,he murmured,"Why wait for a game when we can make our own rules,right here,right now?"

Battling with the confusing emotions that had just ignited. Riya felt trapped, overwhelmed by the intensity of the moment. Without another word,she broke free from his hold and hurried out of the room.With a mix of anger and disappointment her eyes filled with tears. As she left the house, her mind raced with thoughts, questioning whether she had given Jason the wrong hint, whether she had somehow led him to think this was okay. Soon her phone buzzed. It was Sarah. "Where are you? You’re nowhere to be seen," she asked, her voice was filled with concern. Riya didn’t want to burden sarah with her feelings, so she forced a smile into her voice and replied, "I’m just tired, heading back to the dorm."

There was a brief pause before Sarah responded, "Okay, take care," and then the call ended. Riya felt a pang of guilt for lying to her, but she needed to be alone to process everything. As she walked away, the tears began to fall, each one a release of the confusion and hurt she felt inside.