Episode 2-COFFEE

...-AADYA'S POV-...

I was in the cafeteria waiting for Naksh, when suddenly he called out my name, "Hey, Aadya!" He said as a smile made its way on his face.

"Hey," I replied flatly, noting the somber expression on Abir's face as he stood beside Naksh.

"Hello," I greeted Abir with a smile, but his response was curt, confirming my suspicions that he was not in a good mood.

"do you guys wanna go watch the football competition on the ground?" I suggested, eager to support Rahul, who was participating.

"Yeah, sure," Naksh replied enthusiastically. I glanced at Abir, who also nodded in agreement.

We made our way to the ground, and I paused for a moment, informing Naksh and Abir that I'd join them shortly or they could accompany me to watch the football competition. They agreed to wait for me, and we headed towards the match together.

As we settled in to watch, I focused on Rahul, cheering him on with all my might. I waved and sent him an encouraging sign, shouting words of support.

Lost in the excitement of the game, I didn't notice a stray ball hurtling towards me until it was too late. With a sudden realization, I tightly shut my eyes, bracing myself for the inevitable impact and the ensuing surge of pain.

Feeling no pain I slowly opened my eyes, only to find Abir standing right in front of me. My gaze moved away from him eyes toward his hands, he was holding the ball.

I bit my lips, glancing back at him. His heavy breath fanned my face as i realised how close we were, my cheeks started burning as I saw his eyes flickering over my cheeks.

I scoffed quickly looking away at him.

"I don't like my belongings getting hurt so better be careful next time or you will get to know who I am!" Abir's loud voice silenced the whole ground. I saw him smashing the ball towards the players harshly.

"Aadya?" Naksh's voice pulled me back to reality.

"Are you okay?" he asked, concern etched on his face. I nodded quickly, trying to shake off the flustered feeling.

"Are you sure?" Abir's deep voice joined in, making me glance his way. His intense gaze made my heart skip a beat.

"Yeah, I'm okay. Excuse me!" I stammered, then quickly darted away, feeling my cheeks heat up. As soon as I saw Abir, a wave of unexpected shyness washed over me, turning my face a bright shade of red.

I ducked into a quiet corner, leaning against the wall to catch my breath. My heart was racing, and I couldn't shake the feeling that there was something about Abir that made me incredibly nervous and excited at the same time. Taking a deep breath, I tried to calm my Fluttering heart, but his voice and the way he looked at me kept replaying in my mind, making me blush even harder.

What was happening to me?

...-AUTHOR'S POV-...

"Hey, Aadya," Rahul said as he sat down next to her.

"Hello"she replied with a smile, returning the gesture.

"Umm, thanks for coming to see my match," he said, grinning.

"I enjoyed it!" Aadya replied, when suddenly whatever happened there crossed her mind making her cheeks savour a colour of pink.

She scoffed looking away from Rahul.

"Okay, I have to go for the last round now. See you tomorrow," Rahul said noticing her weird behaviour, grabbing his bag to leave.

"Bye! And good luck!" she called out, waving as he left.

Finally, the last period ended. Everyone began to leave, and Aadya started packing her bag while chatting with her friends.

"Oh, you started reading that book?" one friend asked excitedly.

"Yes, I swear, Aadya, it's the best book I've ever read. You should definitely read it!" her friend replied enthusiastically.

"Wow, then I'll buy it today," Aadya said, her interest piqued.

"Yes, then we can talk about it!" They both giggled, enjoying the moment.

After chatting for a while, her friends left, and Aadya waited for Abhishek and Afrin, whose bags were still there. They haven't returned yet.

After getting bored for more than 15 minutes, Aadya decided to look for them in the corridor. Their exams should be over by now, and she was starting to get frustrated knowing that they two can never live without causing trouble.

The school was almost empty, with only a few teachers left. She checked the third floor and found nothing, so she moved down to the second floor, the last floor left to check.

As she was near the sports room, she heard a sound coming from the library. Curious, she went inside and saw Abir talking to someone on the phone, the one kept in the library for emergencies. His back was to her, and she was about to call out when she heard him speak.

"Yes love, try to understand! Okay, I'll bring that teddy for you, okay?"

Aadya froze.

"Okay, I promise. Now, please don't be angry"

"Yes, I'll try to come early, okay?"

"Aww, I lo-"

Before he could finish, she turned and ran out of the library.

She dashed back to her classroom, feeling a strange ache in her chest. Why did she feel so hurt hearing that? They'd just met a few days ago. Why was she feeling this way? Has she gotten a first sight crush on him?

"Stupid hormones," she muttered to herself, lightly slapping her forehead.

bunny do you also think I am chubby?

...-AADYA'S POV-...

I ran toward my classroom, my eyes filling with tears. I felt so foolish. Why was I reacting like this?

Lost in my thoughts, I wasn't paying attention and bumped into someone. I was about to fall, but a hand caught me around my waist. Through my blurred vision.

I opened my eyes to see who it was but couldn't make out the face. I gently pushed away and dashed toward my class.

When I reached the classroom, I heard Afrin and Abhishek's voices. Quickly, I wiped away the tears threatening to fall, took a deep breath, and walked over to them. They noticed me and smiled. I forced a smile back.

"How was your elocution,?" I asked, trying to sound cheerful.

"It was amazing! We won the second prize!" Abhishek beamed.

"Yeah, it was good. But what happened to you?" Afrin asked, her eyes narrowing with concern.

"Nothing. What would happen to me?" I tried to laugh it off.

"Don't lie to me, kiddo. I know you better than you know yourself. Spill it," she insisted.

I really wanted to tell her but didn't understand my own feelings. Why was I so upset? I felt like I was going crazy. It wasn't like I had known Abir for years and was in love with him. We had just met a few days ago!

"No, seriously, I'm fine, guys," I said, forcing another smile.

"Let's go home, it's getting late. We have a test in coaching, remember?" I said quickly, trying to change the subject. Before Afrin could protest, I grabbed her bag and started pulling her towards the door.

"Bye, Abhi! See you on Monday!" I called over my shoulder as we left.

...-AUTHOR'S POV-...

As Afrin and Aadya walked home, Aadya tried to act normal, but she knew she couldn't hide anything from Afrin for long.

"Aadya, listen!" Afrin called out, making Aadya turn toward her.

"Yeah, what's up?"

"You consider me your sister, right?" Afrin asked.

"Eww chii" Aadya made a disgusted face causing Afrin's eyes to widen.

"Kami-" Afrin quickly opened her bag to throw it on Aadya's face when she interrupted.

"Apne pati se koi ye puchta hai kya biwi ji?" Aadya added playfully hiding her face as Afrin burst in laughter.

(How can you ask that to your hubby?, wifey)

" Aigoo maarna band ker" Aadya muttered slightly rubbing her back, as Afrin can never stop herself from hitting someone while laughing.

(Aigoo stop hitting me)

"Pehle pati parameshwar aap ye bataiye aap ro kyu rhe the lakdiyon ki tarah?" Aadya's face palmed herself realising that her whole act went in vain and her best friend wouldn't leave her in peace, until she beat the shit out of the person who made her cry.

While she herself didn't know why she became sad.

"seriously, nothing's wrong" she finally replied trying to be serious, forcing a smile.

"Then why were you crying?" Afrin pressed on those words as she stood at her place making Aadya gulp.

"It was just...my stomach was hurting," Aadya lied, hoping Afrin would believe her.

"Oh, really? Pehel batana chahiye the na Mughe laga Aaj Mera thusa finally kisi ka pet bharega," Afrin said showing her fist.

(You should've told me! I thought someone would finally eat my punch at lunch)

"Pagal abhi hum Ghar late pahuche to hume jarur hi padenge uper se sweet Mai chappal bhi free milenge"

Aadya stated, as both of them laughed, starting to walk again.

(Dumbo now if we reach home late then for sure we will get it, and sweet slippers will be free)

Though Aadya felt bad about lying. She knew her feelings were confusing and didn't make sense, so she didn't want to burden Afrin with them.

They reached Aadya's house, and Afrin gave her a quick hug before leaving.

"Take care and rest, pati parmeshwar?" Afrin teased.

"You too! Biwi jii" Aadya waved back laughing mischievously as Afrin walked away.

bunny do you also think I am chubby?

...-AADYA'S POV-...

After coming home, I headed straight to my room, hoping to avoid a thousand questions from Mumma. She would know I'd been crying just by looking at my face.

I changed into my comfy clothes and sat on my bed, replaying everything that had happened today. Just then, I heard my mom's voice calling me for lunch. With a sigh, I went downstairs.

As we ate, Mom noticed right away that something was off. "Is everything alright? You didn't even greet me when you came home, and you're unusually quiet."

I forced a smile. "It's just a test in coaching. I'm a bit worried about it, that's all."

-Time skip- 4:45 PM-

After lunch, I returned to my room, trying to focus on studying for the test. I listened to some Taylor Swift and

took a nap-my go-to remedy for everything.

When I woke up, I felt a bit better. I put on a long white frock, combed my hair, and grabbed my bag. Feeling slightly more like myself, I went downstairs, ready to face the rest of the day.

"Bye Mumma!!" I said wearing my shoes.

"bye beta all the best, tension mt Lena tu kr legi!!" She said to me while smiling I smiled back at her and left for coaching.

The walk to the coaching center was pleasant, the evening sun casting a warm glow over everything. I couldn't help but hum "Euphoria" tune as I walked, trying to keep my spirits high.

When I arrived, I saw Afrin waiting for me.

"Hey, you look like a dream in that frock!" she exclaimed, making me blush.

"Thanks, Afrin," I said, twirling a little for her.

"Tu haste hue suar lagti hai" she said, linking her arm with mine as we walked into the coaching center together.

(You look like a pig when you smile)

After reaching tuition, Aadya settled into her seat beside Afrin. Raindrops began to trickle down the windowpane as she gazed outside, lost in her thoughts while Afrin buried herself in her studies.

Suddenly, Aadya heard a familiar voice and looked up to see Naksh standing there. She glanced towards Afrin's seat but found it empty-perhaps Afrin had gone to talk to Zaid.

"Haa boliye??" Aadya asked, curious. "Tum thik to hona, kisi ne kuch bola kya tumko?" Naksh's concern was evident as he looked at her.

(Yess!)

(Are you okay? Did someone say something to you?)

"Ha! Mughe kya hoga??" She replied with a smile, trying to brush off any worries he might have.

(Yes what will happen to me?)

"Phir tum school mai ro kyu rahi thi??" Naksh questioned further. He had noticed her distress earlier when she had bumped into him in a rush. Aadya was taken aback; how did he know about that?

(Then why were you crying in school?)

"Nahi nahi, mai bilkul thik hu. Woh bas mujhe andhere se dar lagta hai aur saari lights band hone lagi thi to..." Aadya explained, trailing off nervously.

(No-No I am okay, I am just a bit scared of darkness and that time all the lights started to be turned off)

"Ohh, mujhe laga kisi ne tumhe kuch bola hai. Agar kuch bhi koi bole to apne dost ko yaad kar lena, hadi torne ka mujhe 20 saal ka tajurba hai,"

Naksh said with a hint of playfulness, flashing his dimpled smile. Aadya couldn't help but smile back at his reassuring words.

(Ohh i thought someone said hurt you, if they do tell me I have an experience of 20 years in breaking bones)

Little did they know, throughout their conversation, someone had been discreetly watching them, their eyes filled with curiosity and perhaps a hint of jealousy.

ABIR

Do you think a butterfly can ever see their beautiful wings Aadu

...-ABIR'S POV-...

After I shouted at the players, I caught a glimpse of her blushing face, and for some reason, it stirred something unfamiliar inside me. Throughout the day, that moment kept replaying in my mind. Aadya seemed to linger in my thoughts, and I couldn't shake off the feeling that I had known her from somewhere before.

I've never been the type to dwell on friendships, especially with girls. Ever since my childhood best friend moved away due to her father's business, I've kept my interactions minimal. I'm not one for idle chatter, and my temper often keeps me distant from others to avoid unnecessary conflicts.

But Aadya was different. Since the day she bumped into me, I found myself wanting to talk to her, to hear her cheerful voice and see her infectious smile. It's strange because I've never been drawn to someone like this before. Even Naksh, my longtime friend, noticed my unusual behavior towards her and seemed surprised.

As I entered the coaching class, my eyes automatically searched for her. There she was, smiling and engaged in

conversation with someone.

I glanced over and saw Naksh standing beside her. His presence near her brought a mix of relief and a pang of jealousy I didn't quite understand.

I took my seat, trying to focus on the class, but my thoughts kept drifting back to Aadya. Her laughter echoed in my mind, and I couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to talk to her without feeling this strange mix of nervousness and excitement.

Maybe Naksh was right to be surprised. I never thought I'd find myself drawn to someone so quickly, especially not a girl who seemed to effortlessly break through my walls with just her smile.

The moment Naksh left, I approached her seat and noticed a bag placed there. Aadya didn't meet my gaze, and her usual bright smile was absent today.

"Is someone sitting here?" I asked, hoping she'd look at me. She glanced my way briefly before quickly looking away, avoiding eye contact. "Uh, Afrin is sitting here," she replied softly.

I couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment at her response. There was something different about her today, and I sensed she was troubled by something. But why did it bother me? I brushed off my thoughts with a nonchalant "Oh..." and turned to leave.

Just then, Afrin approached us and interjected, "Sorry, Aadya. Bhaiya said to sit according to the seating arrangement!" Aadya glanced at Afrin and asked, "Okay, then who's sitting with me?"

"Abir, you're sitting with Aadya," Atrin informed me.

"Huh?" Aadya exclaimed, catching us off guard. We both looked at her, and she quickly corrected herself, "I mean, oh, okay, okay," giving a slightly awkward smile.

I couldn't help but smile at her slight fluster, finding her reaction oddly endearing.

...-AUTHOR'S POV-...

After sitting next to Aadya, Abir noticed her attempts to ignore him. She seemed determined to keep her distance, which he found puzzling given their recent interactions.

During the test, Aadya bit nervously on her pen while trying to recall answers. Abir, unable to resist teasing her, nudged his pen towards her with a mischievous grin.

"Ye bhi kha lo!" he quipped.

(Try this one too!)

Aadya looked at him with a questioning glance before realizing his playful intention. She removed her pen from her mouth and shot him a mock glare.

"Bhak, kuch bhi mat boliye!" she retorted, though a smile tugged at her lips involuntarily.

(Don't speak nonsense)

After the 50 Minute test finally ended, everyone started packing up to leave. Aadya gazed out of the window at the rain, realizing she hadn't brought an umbrella, and neither had Afrin.

Unknowingly, Abir found himself watching her. When she caught him staring, he quickly averted his gaze, feeling a bit awkward.

"Aap ghar nahi jayenge?" Aadya asked, noticing Abir still seated while everyone else was leaving.

(Aren't you going to leave for home?l

"Ha, wo main jaane hi wala tha," he replied.

(Uh-h, Yes I was about to leave only)

"Oh, okay. Bye," she said, getting up to leave, aware that the rain showed no signs of stopping.

As soon as Aadya stepped out of the coaching center, she dashed towards the road, ignoring Afrin's concerned calls. "Pagal hai to bimaar par jayegi!" Afrin shouted after her.

(Are you crazy you will fall ill!)

"Wo sab baad mein dekha jayega, abhi mujhe enjoy karne de!" Aadya laughed, dancing freely in the rain.

(We will see that later, for now let me enjoy it)

Both Naksh and Abir stood mesmerized, unable to take their eyes off her. Naksh admired her eyes and her carefree spirit, while Abir couldn't shake the feeling that she looked ethereal, like a fairy dancing in the rain.

After ten minutes, Afrin called out to Aadya again, urging her to come back. Aadya sneezed but remained defiant, continuing to sway in the rain with her eyes closed and a radiant smile on her face.

Just then, Aadya felt the rain stop. Opening her eyes, she found Abir standing before her, holding an umbrella over her head to shield her from getting any wetter.

Their eyes locked briefly before Aadya looked away.

Afrin and Naksh approached them, and Afrin whispered something to Aadya. She quickly turned around, realizing her white dress was clinging to her, revealing more than she intended. Abir, noticing the situation, took off his jacket and handed it to Afrin, along with his umbrella.

"But then you'll get wet," Aadya protested, refusing to take the umbrella.

"No, we'll share this umbrella, and you girls can take that one", Naksh suggested with a smile. Abir nodded in agreement.

...-AADYA'S POV-...

After arriving home, I took a refreshing shower and enjoyed a satisfying dinner. Returning to my room, I checked my phone and noticed a text from my friend Anjali. She was asking if I had bought the book we had been discussing earlier. I replied, promising to purchase it tomorrow since the weekend was approaching.

Placing my phone on charge, I played a soothing BTS song in the background and settled down to study.

It was now 10:05 PM. Finishing my homework, I checked my phone again and saw a message from Naksh.

Naksh: Did you reach home safely?

Me: Yes, I'm home. Sorry if I made you late too.

Naksh: No, it's not like that. Don't apologize.

Me: Hehe, still, it's because of me.

Naksh: Anyway, are you free tomorrow?

Me: Yes, why?

Naksh: I need to go to the bookstore, and I'm alone. If you want, you can come along.

Me: Oh, I was planning to go tomorrow anyway! I didn't know you also liked reading.

Naksh: Yeah, I enjoy reading too! So, what time should we go?

Me: Um, how about 4 PM?

Naksh: Okay, let's meet at 4 then.

After chatting with Naksh, I thought about texting Abir to ask when I could return his umbrella and jacket. But then, my need for beauty sleep reminded me to leave it for later and focus on resting for now.

Next Day-

ABIR

"Do you think a butterfly can ever see there beautiful wings Aadu

...--ABIR'S POV--...

It was a tranquil morning, the aftermath of yesterday's rain leaving a cool freshness in the air. After a hearty breakfast, I decided to dust off my bike and take it for a spin.

Returning home around 11 AM, I refreshed myself and checked my phone to find a message from Aadya. She was asking when she could return my jacket and umbrella.

"Hey!! Wo mujhe puchna tha ki main aapka jacket aur umbrella kab lauta un?"- Aadya

"Tumko jab time mile tab lautaa do..."

- Abir

"Then aap aaj free ho kya?"- Aadya

"Haan, 3 baje ke karib mere pass time hai."- Abir

"Aadya, okay to aap Blueberry Flower Shop ke paas mil sakte ho?"- Aadya

"Thik hai!!"- Abir

After chatting with her, memories of yesterday flooded back. Her image, dancing in the rain with that infectious smile, had etched itself into my mind like a fairy tale.

"Mesmerizing," I thought, recalling how she looked like a 'pari,' a fairy, amidst the raindrops. There was something strangely familiar about her, as if our paths had crossed before, though I couldn't pinpoint when or where.

Lost in thought, I found myself smiling at the mere thought of her. It was a feeling both exhilarating and unnerving, to be so captivated by someone I had only recently met. Yet, there was an undeniable charm in her presence that lingered long after she had left.

As the clock ticked towards 3 PM, I prepared myself to meet her again, eager to see that smile in person once more.

...-AADYA'S POV-...

After finishing my conversation with Abir, I decided to organize my books. With Mom out for the day, I had some quiet time to myself. Checking the time, I realized I needed to start getting ready.

Wearing my clothes, I tied my hair back into a loose ponytail, letting a few strands frame my face. A touch of lip balm and a light spritz of perfume completed my look.

As I gathered my books and double-checked my bag, I couldn't help but smile. There was a flutter of excitement in my stomach, a mix of nervousness and anticipation. Meeting Abir again felt like an adventure, and I was ready to embrace whatever the day had in store.

After reaching the Blue Berry Shop, a charming flower boutique near my coaching center, I eagerly awaited Abir's arrival. Checking my watch, it was already 3:45 PM, and he was still nowhere in sight.

Restless and feeling a bit bored, I decided to pass the time by plugging in my earphones and immersing myself in music.

Lost in the melody, I felt a gentle tug on my earphones.

Startled, I looked up, but the person had already moved away. With a slight frown, I adjusted my earphones and resumed my playlist, trying to ignore the distraction.

Moments later, the familiar sound of a motorcycle pulling up caught my attention. Looking up again, I saw Abir dismounting his bike and walking towards me with a casual stride. His hair was slightly tousled from the ride, and his easy smile made my heart skip a beat.

"Hey, sorry I'm late" he said, his voice warm and apologetic.

I smiled back, trying to play it cool despite the rush of excitement I felt. "It's okay, I wasn't waiting long," I replied, trying to hide how eagerly I had been anticipating his arrival.

He approached me gracefully after parking his bike, and my heart skipped a beat at how effortlessly handsome he looked. His presence reminded me of Tristan Cane from my favorite romance novel-charming and mysterious.

"Sorry for coming late!" he apologized sincerely, towering over me with his height.

"No problem at all," I replied warmly, smiling up at him. I extended the bag containing his jacket and umbrella towards him.

He accepted it graciously, glancing down at the bag.

"You didn't have to return them so quickly," he remarked.

"I was free today, so I thought why not!" I explained cheerfully. "And thank you so much!"

He looked at me intently for a moment, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "Are you really thanking me?" he asked softly.

I furrowed my brows in confusion. "Yes, of course," I replied honestly.

"In that case, you'll have to do me a favor..." he trailed off, his eyes twinkling mischievously.

"Sure, what is it?" I asked eagerly.

He paused for a moment, as if carefully considering his next words. Then, with a playful smile he said-

How Was The Chapter Sweethearts?~~🩵🩶

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