Chapter-1: Crossing paths

The Prince and his team settled into the expansive house on the outskirts of the village, a stark contrast to the rustic charm of the surrounding landscape. The house, a sprawling mansion with an ivy creeping up the walls, exuded an air of luxury but felt strangely isolated. Inside, the ornate furnishings and high ceilings reflected wealth, yet the tension among the Prince and his soldiers was palpable. The glow from the ornate chandeliers did little to lighten the weight of their impending mission, as the Prince gazed out the window, contemplating the lives thriving just beyond their walls.

_________

Meanwhile, at the university, Arushi's excitement radiated from her. She was a bright spark among her peers, with long, dark hair framing her face and those warm hazel eyes that flecked with gold that caught the light and mirrored her vibrant spirit and sparkled with determination. The classroom buzzed with energy as her professor announced the upcoming medical trip to the village. For Arushi, this was more than just an opportunity; it was a chance to fulfill her lifelong dream of helping those in need.

During the break, the vibrant hallways filled with laughter and chatter. Arushi and her best friend, Elena, who was always by her side with her silky long hair flowed behind her as she walked, catching the light and framing her cheerful face, quickly making their way toward the enrollment desk.

“Hey, Aru! Are you going to sign up?” Elena asked, her eyes shining with excitement.

“Of course! I can’t wait!” Arushi replied, her smile infectious. Just then, Chris sauntered over, confidence radiating from him like a magnet. His polished appearance and easy charm contrasted sharply with the genuine warmth Arushi embodied.

“Hey, lovely President! I heard you’re going on the trip. Can I join you? We could have some fun!” Chris said, his smirk teasing.

Arushi's expression hardened slightly. “No thanks! I’m going to help people, not to have fun with you.”

Chris shrugged, his persistence unwavering. “But—”

“Can’t you just leave her alone?” Elena interjected, her tone sharp. “Or should I tell our professor?”

“Stop being dramatic! I’m talking to her, not you!” Chris snapped back, irritation evident in his voice.

“Let’s just go, Elena. He’s not worth our time,” Arushi said, her patience thinning. “I’m excited about this trip, so let’s focus on that!”

“Right! You were going to sign up before me, weren’t you?” Elena teased, her tone playful as they approached the desk.

“You got me!” Arushi laughed, playfully punching Elena’s shoulder. Their laughter echoed down the hall, a bright spot amid the tension swirling around them.

________

Back at the house, the Prince observed the village through the window, where vibrant markets bustled and children played in the dusty streets. The contrast between the house's opulence and the village’s simplicity struck him. The people here were resilient, finding joy in the little things despite their struggles.

•••••••

In the mansion’s heart, the Prince stands still,

Gazing out where life flows, strong and real.

Markets are alive with color and cheer,

Children’s laughter, a song to hear.

Dusty paths, where dreams intertwine,

Simple joys in the bright sunshine.

Resilience blooms in every smile,

Finding hope in each precious mile.

A world of struggle, yet spirits soar,

In their warmth, he sees something more.

They reach for help, eyes full of light,

A call for connection, a plea for the right.

Two worlds apart, yet fates entwined,

In the tapestry of life, a thread is designed.

As he watches, his heart starts to sway,

In their laughter, he finds a new way.

________

He thought about how they relied on support from outsiders—much like Arushi aimed to provide.

As Arushi and Elena finalized their plans for the trip, Chris lingered in the background, his dark intentions simmering just beneath the surface. His interest in Arushi was more than just admiration; it was about control and conquest. He had a reputation that preceded him, and he thrived on power, leaving a trail of broken relationships behind him.

Arushi and Elena’s friendship was a fortress against his advances, a bond forged through years of shared dreams and laughter. As the date of the medical trip approached, Arushi felt a thrilling sense of purpose, ready to embrace the opportunity to make a difference. Little did she know that her path would soon intertwine with the Prince’s in ways that would challenge everything she believed.

The stakes were rising, not just for her but for both their worlds, teetering on the edge of fate.

^^^4th Oct, 2024~~^^^

^^^Noshika|••^^^

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