Stranger ⇌ Companion 72u5v

© Rhea Nahar 2021

All rights reserved

All rights reserved by author. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, .mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the author.

Although every precaution has been taken to the accuracy of the information contained herein, the author and publisher assume no responsibility for any errors or omissions. No liability is assumed for damages that may result from the use of information contained within.

First Published in February 2021

ISBN: 978-93-5427-082-6

Price: INR 149/-

BLUEROSE PUBLISHERS

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Cover Design:

Sanya Rastogi

Typographic Design:

Tanya Raj Upadhyay

Distributed by: BlueRose, Amazon, Flipkart, Shopclues

Special Thanks… Divit Kanath

Fighting with gusty winds and the enormous waves of the violent sea

My sail rested on a deserted island

Strayed for hours and hours in search of hope

I found a mysterious box having a blank book and a card in it.

Which said,

“DON’T JUST SURVIVE! WRITE YOUR OWN STORY”

– Rashi Pajwani.

auther’s Introduction

If you’d have had told me 2 years ago that I’d have been writing a book that’s about to be published, I would have laughed it off, but here I am writing one. I struggled a bit back then but it just never came to me. Things are different now because of which I finally feel confident of my creative abilities.

Being a medical student, writing was never ingrained into me. I think that I am a writer by chance, not a writer by choice. I’ve been writing to express myself for a while.

COVID-19 has played a significant role in bringing out my dormant creativity and having an ample amount of time on my hands has accelerated it, so I finally pushed myself to write a book.

With this book finally coming to fruition, I’ve completed my bucket list.

See you all @rheanahar_09

Chapter 1

We were eagerly waiting at the Bandra Terminus. We are finally going thought Sara. She was very excited for the trip. Everyone is excited when they plan a trip with their best friend.

“Sara!” exclaimed Amaira.

“Yeah?”, Sara asked.

“Let’s go to the camp instructor and take our seat numbers.” said Amaira.

“Okay!” replied Sara.

Both of them went to the instructor, took their berth numbers and got settled in their respective seats. They were patiently waiting for the train to start.

“SURPRISE!” two people shouted in unison. Amaira went and hugged one of them tightly. It was Rithwik, Amaira’s boyfriend and the person beside him was Vihaan, Rithwik’s best friend. Amaira was really happy and shocked seeing both of them.

“What a surprise guys,” Sara exclaimed (sarcastically).

Still in Rithwik’s arms, Amaira eagerly asked them, “What’re you guys doing here?!”

“How would Rithwik live without you for the next 14 days Amaira?” Vihaan mocked “So we decided to surprise you girls”.

“Oh! I see,” said Sara.

Amaira (blushing), whispered a ‘Thank you’ to Rithwik. Sara wasn’t very pleased at their arrival. She hated Rithwik, on top of that she was more pissed that these people had hi-jacked her only trip with her best friend. On the contrary, Amaira was very happy with Rithwik being beside her. The disappointment was evident on Sara’s face and that’s when Priyank sir came in. He was one of the many volunteers at Camp Uchidhar. Camp Uchidhar is one of the best in India. Sara had gone to many different places along with this camp. Seeing Priyank sir brought her smile right back.

“Hello Sir, how are you?” she asked enthusiastically.

“I am good, Thank you. How are you doing?” asked Priyank sir.

“I’m fine as well sir.”, Sara said.

After exchanging pleasantries Sara introduced her friends to Priyank sir. They greeted each other. Priyank sir got up to leave when Sara beamed, “Glad to see

you, sir”. “Same here Sara, I am sure you and your friends are going to thoroughly enjoy the trip”. “Yes sir,” Amaira said in excitement and Sara gave him half a smile. After Priyank sir went Amaira turned to Sara and told her to come to the washroom with her. She knew Sara was upset. They made their way to the washroom. “Sara listen?” said Amaira. Say what happened? asked Sara, a bit frustrated. “Are you ok with Rithwik and Vihaan on the trip?” asked Amaira, a little concerned. “Do you really think so?” said Sara sternly. “Listen, even I didn’t know that they were coming,” said Amaira a bit sadly. She was quite happy to see Rithwik but she also knew Sara didn’t like him and she had her reasons. She felt sorry about the whole situation, but she couldn’t do anything about it now. It was too late. They headed back to the compartment.

Rithwik and Vihaan could sense that Sara was thwarted, but none of them were bold enough to ask her what was wrong as they knew what would come their way later. Sara went on to hear songs on her ear pods. Amaira went and sat beside Rithwik. Everyone was chilling. It was twilight by then. Sara in a relaxed posture was staring intently at the Blue sky turn Prussian. Vihaan was fidgeting with his laptop. Rithwik and Amaira continued with their banter nonetheless. Seeing Sara get up to leave Amaira inquired the reason. “Ah! I am going to Priyank sir” said Sara. Amaira nodded and nobody asked further.

She made her way through the bogie to the compartment where all the volunteers were sitting. The vibe was electrifying and lively. She finally felt happy seeing her surroundings. I am going to enjoy a lot with these new people she thought to herself. After crossing a couple of compartments, she could see Priyank sir. “Hey Sara, Priyank sir waved to her”. “Hello”, she replied. Everybody in the vicinity was looking at them both curiously. Then Priyank sir introduced Sara to everyone. She greeted everyone and sat down with the volunteers.

“Is there anything you want?” asked one of the volunteers to Sara. Her name was Kinjal. “No ma’am, nothing specific,” Sara answered awkwardly. “Oh, you don’t need to call me ma’am,” said Kinjal, “You can call me Di.” “Cool,” said Sara,

smiling. “How many people are there in this camp?” Sara asked curiously. “35 campers and 7 volunteers,” replied one of them. “Oh!” Sara replied. “What are you studying Sara, Neha di asked?” “Medicine, 3rd year” Sara replied. “Ah, nice!” Neha di said. They chit-chatted for a while and then it was dinner time. Sara was about to leave when Jeet Bhai (volunteer) called out her name.

“Hey! Sara, can you help to distribute food to everyone?”

“Sure, Jeet Bhai” Sara said. Kinjal di and Priyank sir distributed disposable plates to everyone. Jeet Bhai and Sara distributed the food. After that, the head volunteer (camp instructor) went to each compartment and instructed everyone not to throw used plates outside the window and instead dispose of them in the trashcan lying nearby.

After helping the volunteers, she bid them good-bye and went back to her seat to have her dinner. When she sat, she saw Rithwik and Amaira were feeding each other. She smiled to herself. She was happy seeing her best friend. But she was still mad at Rithwik for intruding on their trip and what he had done to her in the past. She had accepted Amaira and Rithwik’s relationship since Amaira was very happy about it. “What are our post-dinner plans?” asked Amaira cheerily. Rithwik shrugged, clearly not excited. Amaira turned to Vihaan and Sara. Vihaan answered, “Anything that suits y'all”. Amaira asked Sara who had just completed her dinner “What about you?” Sara didn’t reply. Sara was lost in her own trance. “Let her crib on my arrival, she doesn’t have anything better to do, leave her alone,” said Rithwik bitterly.

Amaira (hit Rithwik in the stomach) and shut him up. Sara was infuriated by the statement but she decided to ignore him. She turned to Amaira and informed her that she was going to read a book. Amaira nodded but in the back of her mind, she definitely knew she had to do something about this. She wanted Sara and Rithwik to chill with each other. But she also knew this was impossible.

She decided not to think about this for now.

Finally, Vihaan said I’m going to the neighboring compartment with the people who met me at the station today. He asked Sara if she wanted to him.

Chapter 2

In a while Sara replied. Sara completed her book and went to Vihaan and his new friends. Vihaan introduced her to everyone there. There were two girls and three boys. They were playing ‘Never have I ever’. Sara too ed happily. It was around midnight. Everyone was quite sleepy by then. So, everyone decided to disperse. Vihaan and Sara returned to their seats. Amaira and Rithwik were in the middle of a serious discussion. “Amaira, what happened?” asked Sara, seeing her serious face. “Nothing,” Amaira replied, a bit frustrated. Sara did not push her more and went to sleep, because she thought Amaira would tell her everything eventually. After a while Amaira and Rithwik also slept.

Around midnight Sara got up with a jerk. She had sweat on her face. She realized that she had a nightmare. She was breathing hard. She tried to recall what she saw in the dream, but all she could was that some people were taking her away from her family, friends and beloved ones. Panicked, she couldn’t sleep further. So, she decided to go and see if someone else was awake. She walked the whole bogie but none of them were awake. So, she took her earpods from her seat and went to the door. She was standing near the door and listening to songs. She could feel the cool breeze gently brushing past her face. Her breathing had returned to normal.

She was enjoying her own company. The eerie darkness outside made her a bit anxious, but she was okay with it. She knew that the first ray of the morning sun would make her feel comfortable. She took out her phone to glance at the time. It was around 3:30 am. After a while, a boy came. He was tall, thin and had a fit body. He was wearing a t-shirt, track pants and a jacket. He smiled at Sara and said “You shouldn’t be standing near the door. It’s very risky.” But she could not hear anything due to the ear-pods. She removed one ear pod and apologized “Come again? I couldn’t hear what you said.” He repeated his words, but Sara didn’t pay any heed to his words. “Okay!” she said sternly. So, the stranger left, puzzled by Sara’s strange behavior. Why was he interested in what I was doing,

Sara thought to herself? After standing near the door for a while, Sara went back to her seat.

Around 8 am in the morning everyone got up but Sara was still asleep. Vihaan went to wake her up. Good Morning Sara, Vihaan beamed, when she woke up. Good Morning, Sara said smiling. She greeted Amaira also. Then she went to the washroom to freshen up. Meanwhile the stranger who met Sara last night woke up. The first thought that struck him was if the girl who was standing near the door last night was okay. He got up from his seat to check if she was okay, when his friend asked him where he was off to this early? He told his friend the whole story. Even he got concerned. I will also accompany you, the stranger’s friend said. They both walked the whole bogie but they could not find Sara.

The stranger panicked, so did his friend. They could not think of anything so they went to the volunteers. Hello ma’am, I am Viren Virazani and this is my friend Ronak. “Yes? Tell me what happened,” Kinjal di replied. “Di, do you the girl who was serving food with one of the volunteers?” “Yeah! That's Sara, what about her? asked di. Viren explained the whole situation. All volunteers present there got concerned. Let’s go and ask her friends Priyank sir insisted. Viren, his friend Ronak, Priyank sir and Kinjal Di headed towards the compartment where Sara and her friends were seated. All of them were concerned and panicked simultaneously. The distance to Sara’s compartment felt long to Viren. He was silently praying for Sara’s well-being.

Finally, they reached. “Where is Sara?” Priyank sir asked Vihaan and everyone was intently waiting for Vihaan’s reply.

Chapter 3

She is in the washroom, Vihaan replied cautiously. Priyank sir and Kinjal di were relieved, but Viren was still worried. “Which one?” asked Kinjal di. “The one to the right”, Amaira replied. Okay, said di. Priyank sir and Viren headed towards the washroom while Kinjal di and Ronak returned to their seats. They waited until Sara turned up. Viren and Sir were standing outside the washroom when Sara came out of the washroom. She was confused upon seeing the stranger with Sir. Viren heaved a sigh of relief upon seeing Sara safe and sound. “Good morning sir,” she said, still trying to figure out what had happened. “Morning!” he replied angrily.

“What happened sir?” Sara asked. “What were you doing near the door last night?” he asked. Sara was filled with anger. She knew that the stranger was behind this. She was staring at the stranger. “Don’t look at him and answer me,'' snapped Priyank sir. “Actually, sir I had a nightmare last night and after that I could not sleep, so I came and stood by the door keeping a safe distance.” “Seriously?!” exclaimed the stranger. Sara could not understand what he was trying to say. “Sara, what you did was very dangerous, you shouldn’t have done that.” said Priyank sir with disappointment in his eyes. Sara was filled with guilt.

“I’m really sorry” she muttered. “No problem, but promise me you won’t do any such thing again”. “I promise”, Sara replied, with embarrassment. “Sara, you really don’t know how worried everyone was. Take care of yourself! And if you want anything come to me”, said Priyank sir. Viren was standing and listening to the conversation silently. Once sir left, Sara turned towards Viren infuriated and said “Mr. Stranger, mind your own business. Don’t interfere with whatever I’m doing. Please let me enjoy my trip. You were bothering me last night as well and today you crossed all your limits by involving the volunteers. I know how to keep myself out of danger. I hope that got through to you! Now get out of my way, I need to go back to my seat.”

“Listen to me,” he roared. Sara pushed him aside and started heading towards her seat. “Hey, Miss Attitude,” Viren called out. “Excuse me?” Sara turned. “Miss Attitude?” She said bitterly. “Yes,” said Viren who was still a stranger to Sara. Before Sara could utter a word Viren said “Shut your mouth and listen to me first”. This really pissed Sara off. But she decided to listen. Say she blasted on him. Viren started to narrate the whole thing which happened this morning. Sara was listening to everything (cautiously). After listening to him, her expression was softened and eyes were filled with warmth. “Sorry Stranger!” she said playfully. “VIREN,” he said, “Viren Vazirani”. “Sara Seghal,” she replied. They shook hands briefly. Sara was about to say something but Vihaan’s voice interrupted her. “Hey! Sara, your phone, it’s your mom.” “Oh! give” she replied.

Sara took the phone, meanwhile Viren and Vihaan were staring at each other. Once Sara was done, she turned towards them. “Why are you guys staring at each other?” she asked out of curiosity. “No reason” Viren shrugged. “Who is he?” Asked Vihaan in Sara’s ear. “Oh! He is my luck by chance friend,” said Sara. “Yeah! by the way, why was Priyank sir searching for you?'' asked Vihaan. “Absolutely no reason” Sara replied. “Let’s go,” said Vihaan. “I have to go now,'' Sara said to Viren and was waiting for Viren to say something. He said “Sure, let’s meet soon,” and gave half a smile. “Let’s go,” Sara said to Vihaan and they left. Viren also went to his place. Amaira and Rithwik looked puzzled when they saw Sara. They had many questions but didn’t know where to start. Vihaan asked again, “What is going on Sara?” “Nothing!” she replied bluntly.

Chapter 4

Sara was enjoying the attention she was getting from Viren. Once they were back Amaira and Rithwik offered them breakfast. She took it cheerfully. Rithwik was looking at Sara suspiciously seeing her mood. He asked Sara, “Is everything okay?” “Yes!” Sara replied with a grin. After breakfast there was still 2 hours to reach Delhi so Sara decided to go and talk to Priyank sir and apologize to him once more. She told everyone that she had some work with Priyank sir and left. She walked the whole bogie again and finally spotted him standing with Neha di. “Hello sir” she said, “Hi!” Sir replied. “Heard about your midnight adventure” Neha di prompted. Sara smiles (nervously with little embarrassment.) Neha di got a call and excused herself. Sara turned towards sir and asked, “Are you still angry at me Sir?”. “No Sara, but I was definitely worried when that boy told us about you.” “Yeah! I’m really sorry about that sir” Sara replied. “I was at a safe distance though, just because he couldn’t find me, he panicked nothing else.”

“Okay dear, anything else? I have some urgent work.” “No sir it’s fine I’ll talk to you later,'' said Sara and left. She shared a special bond with Priyank sir. She was heading back to her berth when someone called out Miss Attitude from behind. She definitely knew who it was. She turned around and smiled. “Don’t ever call me that, Mr. Stranger.” “Oh dear!” said Viren jokingly and made space for Sara to sit. Sara went and sat beside Viren. “So, did you mention your little adventure to your friends?” Inquired Viren. “Nope,” Sara replied and her mobile rang. It was none other than Vihaan. “Bodyguard,” Viren muttered. Sara gave him a stern look and answered the call. “Sara where the hell are you?” Vihaan shouted. “I’m coming, I’m coming!” and she kept the call without listening. “Bodyguard” Sara shrugged. “Yes, does he let you live? Always bothering. Especially when you are with me” Viren bemused. “Shut up!” Sara said hitting him in the stomach playfully. “Are you going to introduce us to this beautiful girl who disturbed our peace this morning?” interrupted Viren’s friend. “Yeah Sara, meet my friends Ronak and Mihir, you guys this is Sara.” They greeted each other. “I’ll take leave now;” Sara said as she got up to leave. “Hey, I am coming too,'' said Viren. “I’d like to meet your friends if you don’t mind.” “Sure, Mihir and Ronak do you want to us?” Asked Sara. “No guys you carry on, we have

some work,'' said Mihir.

“Let’s go,” Viren said. “Yeah!” Sara smiled. They reached the compartment where Rithwik, Amaira and Vihaan were sitting. When they reached all of them were busy in their respective mobiles. “So that’s why you were standing on the door last night,” whispered Viren into Sara’s ears. Sara gave him a stern look. “Vihaan!” Sara roared, “Seriously?” All of you are on your mobiles? “Ah! Hi you’re back,” said Amaira, “who is he?” she asked, gesturing towards Viren. “This is Viren from Mumbai,'' said Sara. She then introduced her friends to Viren. Then they sat beside Vihaan. “What is he doing here?” Asked Vihaan to Sara in a very low voice which was not audible to anyone. “He is a friend Vihaan,” Sara frowned.

“So, what are you studying?” asked Amaira. “I am doing Business Management final year and then I’ll do MBA from Australia.” Interesting, Sara thought to herself. “Woahhh!” exclaimed Amaira. “Where do you stay?” Vihaan asked. “Brench Candy,” said Viren. “Oh, okay!” said Vihaan. “Can you guys stop interrogating him?” said Sara.

“Eh, it’s okay Sara they’re just curious about me nothing else. Or maybe they are jealous of seeing you with me,” said Viren into her ears. Sara sighed, “yeah maybe.” Everybody was looking at both of them curiously with a question mark on their face. Everybody chit-chatted for a while and then lunch was served. Viren sat with them only for lunch. “So, what do you do Sara?” asked Viren. “I am a medical student,'' said Sara. “Oh! that’s great,” said Viren.

“Thank you,” Sara said in a kiddish way. Everyone was shocked by Sara’s strange behavior with Viren. She was someone who doesn’t talk and open up with people and now she was so friendly with Viren.

After a while, Jeet Bhai came and instructed everyone to keep their luggage ready as Delhi was just 25 minutes away. “I’ll take leave now,'' Viren said. Sara got up too. When they were at a safe distance from everyone Viren turned to Sara and said “Meet soon girl,” gently patting her cheek. “Sure,” Sara replied with a broad smile. Then she went and sat with her friends. “What’s wrong with you Sara?” Rithwik snapped. “It’s none of your business,” she said as serenely as she could. Rithwik gave her a suspicious look but she paid no heed to him at all.

After that Vihaan and Amaira tried to talk to her but she was tight-lipped. Instead, she told everyone to enjoy the trip rather than thinking about what she was doing. They then removed their luggage and were sitting patiently, waiting for the Delhi Railway station. Meanwhile, Sara removed her mobile phone and opened Instagram. In the pending friend requests list, Viren’s name was on the top. She felt a tingle in her stomach. She was hugging herself in delight in the back of her mind. She accepted the request and started stalking his . She was quite impressed with the photos. She loved a picture of him where he was on a football field. She commented on the picture. Viren instantly liked the comment and replied to it. Sara texted him on DM then.

Sara: So, Mr. Stranger too active on social media?

Viren: No, No Miss. Attitude... I was waiting for you to accept my request and so I was online.

Sara: Oh! Interesting, BTW loved your pics, especially the ones on the football field.

Viren: Thanks! I LOVE being there. That place gives me peace.

Sara: Oh! Is it so?

Viren: Yeah! Now keep the mobile aside we have almost reached.

Sara: Yes, bye.. meet soon.

Viren:

Chapter 5

Sara’s boring trip had unexpectedly turned into a very interesting one. “Something is surely going on between them,'' said Rithwik to Vihaan and Amaira. “I don’t really think so,'' said Amaira. “Maybe, I don’t know,” added Vihaan.

Finally, the train reached Delhi station. They all took their luggage and got down. After getting down Sara kept her luggage aside and stretched her body. After that, they came out near the bus. Viren took out his phone and texted Sara

Viren: Welcome to Delhi Miss. A

Sara: Don’t call me that, please….. and yeah! Welcome to you too

Viren: Ok ok I was just teasing you, won’t call you that again.

Sara: Thank you..

Viren: Pleasure is mine.

“Hello everyone, hope you all had a great journey. So, we are finally in Delhi. Enjoy the trip thoroughly guys and girls.”

“Today’s plan includes going to the hotel from here, where everyone will be given 2 hours for getting fresh.

Then we will go to India Gate to begin sightseeing and then tonight after dinner we will depart for Tehri.” “It’s a 11-hour bus journey,” The camp instructor instructed.

Now get on the bus. “We will sit on the last seat,” announced Rithwik. “No,'' said Sara. “You know I have a problem sitting on the last seat, don’t you?” “Sara it will be real fun,'' said Vihaan. “No! it’s a clear no Vihaan, you know I can’t sit there. I feel nauseous on the last seat.” “Please Sara,” Amaira added. “Let’s do one thing, you guys sit on the last seat, I’ll sit in front,'' said Sara in frustration. “Ok fine if you want to do it that way, you can,'' said Rithwik. Sara took her backpack and went to sit. Everyone was boarding the bus. Viren was ing by, he saw Sara sitting alone. He pulled one of her ear-pods and asked her why she was sitting alone? “Because everyone wants to sit on the last seat and I am not comfortable sitting there,” she said. “Nobody bothered to accompany you?” asked Viren. “Nope, everyone is happy back there.” “Oh! Can I sit here then, if you don’t mind?” “Yessssssssssss Mr. Stranger,” said Sara very enthusiastically.

“Look, Sara is sitting with Viren again,” said Vihaan, a bit frustrated. “Why is Viren bothering you so much?” asked Amaira. “Look at her, she looks so happy.” “Because I have feelings for her,” said Vihaan. “What?!” Rithwik and Amaira asked in terror. “Yes, you heard it right, I have had a crush on Sara from a year now.” “Why didn’t you tell us or her?” “Because I am sure she doesn’t feel the same for me and I don’t want to lose my friendship with her.” “Okay, but then why didn’t you sit with her and make her feel better? You know how angry she is with us,” said Amaira. “Are you crazy?” added Rithwik. “Yeah, you guys are right? I’ll go and sit with her now.”

Vihaan went to Sara to sit with her, but when he saw her talking happily with Viren, he went back and sat in his place. “Why did you come back?” asked Rithwik. “She was very happy with Viren and maybe she didn’t want to talk with me.” “Don’t overthink Vihaan,” said Amaira crisply. Vihaan did not reply to what Amaira said and sat quietly beside them. Meanwhile, Sara and Viren were enjoying a lot together. That’s when Priyank sir came and said “Oh! New friendships happening around?” “Yeah!” Sara said blushingly. “Ok guys you carry on, I will talk to you later,'' said Priyank Sir. “Sure,” Viren said.

“Amaira, Rithwik listen” Vihaan urged. “Yes?” said Amaira. “Please don’t tell Sara anything about this, I don’t have any idea how she will react, and then I don’t want to ruin her trip.” “Of- course we won’t, don’t worry about that,'' said Rithwik. Finally, they reached the hotel. Everyone took their luggage and were waiting in the lobby. Rooms were being allotted. Sara and Amaira were in one room. Rithwik and Vihaan in one and then Viren, Mihir, and Ronak. Everyone went to their respective rooms to get ready. Amaira did not talk much to Sara as she knew Sara was very angry with her and she didn’t want a fight to happen. Amaira got ready first and went to Rithwik’s room to spend the rest of the time. Sara knew this was going to happen during the whole trip, so she did not bother to tell her anything.

Once Sara was ready, she saw the time, she still had one hour left according to the instructions given so she decided to sleep. She called Amaira, she picked up the call on the second ring…

Hello! Amaira said.

Hey! Amaira listen, Sara replied.

I am going to sleep for a while. Please wake me up in 45 minutes as we have to

leave, she added.

Sure, replied Amaira.

Bye! See you, Sara said and hung up. She was about to keep the phone when she saw a message from Viren on Instagram.

Viren: Hey ready?

Sara: Yeah!

Viren: What are you doing now?

Sara: Going to sleep.

Viren: Oh! ok then, meet you downstairs in an hour.

Sara: Sure! bye.

Viren:

Chapter 6

The voice of the mobile phone ringing woke up Sara. She was in deep sleep as she could not sleep properly the night before. It was Amaira. “Hey! Get up sleepy head. Come down in 10 minutes or you will be late.” “Yes,” Sara replied and hung up. She got out of bed, washed her face, combed her hair, took her jacket, backpack and went down. Vihaan, Rithwik and Amaira were waiting for Sara to come.

“Hello people,” Sara beamed. “Hey!” Vihaan said. “Let’s have snacks,” Amaira said. Yeah! Rithwik replied. They all took their snacks and were about to sit when Viren and his friends came. Sara waved to Viren. They came and sat with them. Vihaan was a bit upset seeing Viren. They all had their snacks and got on the bus. Everybody was super excited to see India Gate. This time even Sara sat on the last seat with Amaira. Viren and his friends also ed. Sara was happy sitting in between Viren and Amaira.

They all enjoyed sitting together as a gang. Sara could not withstand sitting on the last seat. She started feeling nauseous. So, she went to sit in front. Amaira was about to go with her when Viren told, I’ll go. Everyone agreed. Sara slept keeping her head on Viren’s shoulder. She was feeling very dizzy. She also ate candy. After a while, they reached India Gate.

They got down from the bus. Viren helped Sara and seeing this made Vihaan jealous. Camp instructor instructed us that the guide here is going to enlighten us with the history of India Gate. Everyone started making faces but eventually gave in as they didn’t have an option. After all this, everyone started roaming and started clicking selfies. Sara and Amaira started posing as Viren was taking their pictures. Then they had a group picture with Rithwik and Vihaan. After that Sara took pictures with Viren and his friends. After that everyone gave Rithwik

and Amaira some personal time. They clicked some more pictures together. Vihaan was not comfortable seeing Viren around. It was very frustrating to see him but he could not do anything.

Sara wanted to spend some time with Amaira, but she was busy with Rithwik. She got sad by the thought of Rithwik being on the trip. He is someone who has hurt her to an extent that nobody could. She only accepted him again in her life for Amaira. But it was getting difficult to pretend. A tear rolled down from her eye. She did not even realize it. “Why are you crying?” Viren asked her softly. His question brought her back into reality. “No, I am not,'' she quickly replied, wiping off the tear rolling down her cheek. “Don’t lie, Sara, something is wrong.” “Nothing is wrong Viren,” she replied. He was about to say something when Ronak called Viren. “Hey, buddy! Come here,” called Ronak. “Coming!” he said and looked at Sara’s face and left.

Sara went to Vihaan who was standing nearby. What am I going to tell Viren? she thought to herself. At the other end, Viren was continuously thinking about what was wrong with Sara. Both were distracted. It was 7 pm and the cold there was increasing. Sara put her jacket on. She was not feeling well now. Because of the sudden climate change, she got cold. Her cheeks turned red and her nose started running. In half an hour’s time, they got back on the bus to go to the hotel. On the bus, Sara did not talk to Viren as she didn’t know what to say to him. Viren thought she was ignoring her but thought not to bother her. Once they reached the hotel, she and Amaira directly went to the room to change into traveling clothes. They packed their bags and came down for dinner with the luggage. The boys had already come. Seeing bags in Amaira’s and Sara’s hands, Rithwik and Vihaan came and took the bags from them. After that, they all had dinner together. Viren and his friends were also in the unit now. These seven people decided to enjoy together. During dinner, Ronak asked “Sara, do you know one thing about Viren?” “What?” she asked curiously. He has never talked to girls. “What?” Sara and Amaira said simultaneously. “Don’t start that guys please,” Viren said, making a puppy face. “Ronak, ignore him, you continue,” Sara said.

“So, this is the first time he is talking to a girl. He is just about studies and sports.” “Not a single girl Viren?” Vihaan enquired. “No,” Viren said as he got up to leave. “Okay okay we are not going to say anything,” Mihir said. “You guys continue, I am going,'' he said frustrated, and left. “Get ready campers we are leaving in 15 minutes,” the instructor said. Everyone got up to leave. Mihir and Ronak went to convince Viren. “Sara, who are you sitting with?” asked Vihaan. “With Viren off-course”, she said. “Okay then enjoy,'' said Vihaan, rolling his eyes. “What’s wrong with you?” asked Sara. “Nothing,” said Vihaan and left. “Is he okay?” Sara asked, looking at Rithwik and Amaira. “We don’t know,” said Rithwik. “Okay, let’s go!” Amaira said. They all boarded the bus. Sara went and sat with Viren. “Are you ok?” she asked Viren. “Yeah! I am fine,” he replied. “Was that the truth? What Ronak said,” asked Sara. “Yes, you are the first girl I am talking to.” “Seriously?” Sara gasped. “Yes,” he said as calmly as he could. “Oh shit!” Sara cried. “What happened?” Viren asked in concern. “I forgot to take medicines,” said Sara. “Why? What’s wrong?” “I am not feeling good. I think I have a fever.” “Let me check,” said Viren (concerned). He kept his palm on Sara’s head. “You do have a slight fever,” said Viren. “Yeah! I know, I’ll take medicine and sleep,” replied Sara.

Chapter 7

After taking medicines, Sara turned towards Viren. “What’s this between you and girls? Why don’t you talk to them?” “I just don’t feel like it,” said Viren casually. “Oh! I see,” Sara replied. “What problem do you have with Rithwik?” enquired Viren. “Ah! Wrong question. A few issues from the past, leave it. Why are you talking to me then?” asked Sara curiously. “Sorry?” Viren said, raising an eyebrow. “You don’t talk to girls right, then why me?” asked Sara. “The first time I saw you that night, something about you attracted me. So, I thought let’s break the routine,” chuckled Viren. “Interesting!” Sara murmured. “Let’s sleep; we have a long day tomorrow,” said Viren. “Yeah, sure,” said Sara.

After a long journey, they finally reached Tehri. Tehri is a quaint but one of the most alluring hill districts, situated at an altitude of 6520 feet above sea level. It lies in the state of Uttarakhand. It is the highest Dam in India and one of the biggest dams in the world. Sara got off the bus and stretched her body. “Good Morning Sara!” Vihaan beamed. “Morning!” Sara replied with a smile. Everyone took their luggage and went to the hotel lobby. Rooms were allotted, all the boys were allotted in a room and Sara and Amaira were allotted a room. “Can I you guys, if Sara is okay with it?'' asked Rithwik. “Let’s do one thing, Rithwik, you stay with Amaira and I’ll go with the boys,'' said Sara. “Oh! Are you honestly okay with it?” asked Amaira concerned. “Sure dear, you guys think you’re on a honeymoon! If I’m in the same room how would you get privacy?” Sara asked (sarcastically). “You don’t need to overreact Sara,” said Rithwik frustrated. “Am I overreacting?” Sara said looking at Vihaan. “Stop this you guys!” said Amaira. “Okay fine, let’s go in our rooms and freshen up, I am excited for the adventure rides we are going to do today. Let’s not waste time here,” said Viren to calm the situation. “Yes please,” Vihaan added.

Everyone went to the room. Sara decided to sleep for a while as she was not feeling well. After a while, Vihaan jumped beside Sara and started shouting in her ears. Sara woke up with a jerk. “Are you mad Vihaan?” Sara blasted. “Let

her sleep,” Viren said to Vihaan. “Why is she sleeping? We have not come here to sleep,” replied Vihaan. “Yes, we have not but she is not well,” said Viren. “Huh, what happened to her?” Asked Vihaan concerned. “She had a slight fever,” said Viren. “Oh! I am so sorry Sara,” said Vihaan stroking her hairs soothingly. “It’s ok,” said Sara in a childish way. After some time, everyone came down with their backpacks. “It is going to be a long day,” said Ronak with a grin. “Yeah! Adventures are going to be fun,” said Viren. “Let’s go and have breakfast,” Mihir said. “Wait for Amaira and Rithwik,” Sara said. “Here they are,” said Vihaan. “Hello,” Amaira beamed. Hi, everyone replied. “Let’s have breakfast now,” said Mihir. Everyone went, took their plates, served themselves, and sat on a round table. “Sara,” Vihaan called out as they sat. “Yes?” Sara replied. “Will you come with me for a walk after breakfast?” “Sure, anything serious?” asked Sara. “Nope! Just asking you,” said Vihaan. “Fine,” Sara replied with a smile. Meanwhile, Rithwik and Amaira were looking at each other.

“We will be leaving for the adventure sports in 15 minutes guys, so complete your breakfast as early as possible,” said the camp instructor. “How will we go for a walk now?” asked Sara looking curiously into Vihaan’s eyes. “We will go in the evening,” said Vihaan dejectedly. My luck cannot be worse, Vihaan thought to himself. Everyone got up to leave. “Sara, are you going to sit with us behind?” Asked Amaira. “No, no I won’t,” replied Sara. “Can I accompany you in the front seat instead of Viren?” asked Vihaan. “Okay, no problem” Sara shrugged. Everyone got on the bus. Vihaan sat with Sara on the front seat. It was a half-hour journey from the hotel. “So how do you feel on the trip alone, since Rithwik is busy full time?” asked Sara. “Yeah! True he is busy with Amaira, but then I am enjoying it so no problem.” “It’s okay, it happens,” Sara said patting Vihaan’s back. “Are you happy?” Vihaan asked. “Maybe. I had a feeling that this trip with my best friend was going to be a flop show, but then unexpectedly we made new friends and I am enjoying it now,” said Sara. “Yeah! That’s true” added Vihaan. After a few minutes they reached the location and everyone got down from the bus. All around them were some exciting faces waiting for further instructions from the camp instructor!

Chapter 8

In a few minutes they were ready with their teams for the different adventures. Sara and Vihaan were quite excited about the activities. They had a pact between them, that where ever they go they would do sports together. Can I you guys in your deal? asked Viren. “Of course, you don’t need to ask,” said Sara. Vihaan was disappointed by this but did not say anything, rather he welcomed Viren with a broad smile.

“Come-on boys” shouted Sara. All three did Jumaring and Zipline before lunch. Others only did zipline as they found jumaring a bit dangerous. It was actually a difficult sport. In that sport, a person climbs a steep mountain with the help of a harness. After reaching the top, Sara removed her mobile from the pocket and took selfies with Vihaan and Viren. She was happy, at least some of her friends did adventure sports like her.

Vihaan was carefully observing Sara. He was blessed to have her as a best friend. Only one person was bothering him throughout and that was none other than Viren. His closeness with Sara was making Vihaan jealous. While on the other side, Viren’s decision to talk to Sara proved right. She was the best travel partner anyone would want or maybe a partner for life, he thought to himself. He did not reveal this to anybody. He was finally comfortable talking to girls or maybe it was Sara who made it easy for him.

“Listen! everyone,” Rithwik called when they were having lunch together. “What?” Ronak called out. “What if we go for the trek together, all of us? I asked Jeet Bhai and he said there are four different treks of about 2 hours. It’s our choice to decide on the location. So, what do y’all say? Can all seven of us go together?” He asked. “Not a bad idea Rithwik,” Sara said. “Wasn’t expecting it from you,” she added. “Ah! I am not as bad as you think darling!” Rithwik

said. “Woah! Darling and all ha, what do you want from me?” Sara retorted. “Just don’t be mad at my girlfriend ever, because of me. I know you hate me, but she loves you a lot, more than you know,” he said in a requesting tone. “But I am not mad at her at all,” Sara said with a surprise. “I am requesting you beforehand Sara nothing else.” “Don’t worry Rithwik,” Amaira added. “Yeah! You guys” said Rithwik and left the table to keep his plate.

“So; is everyone ready for the trek?” asked Priyank Sir. “Yes, sir” everyone said in unison. Sara got up excitedly, she was about to go keep her plate, but Vihaan took it from her and went to keep it. “Thanks, Vihaan” said Sara. “Anytime for you Sara,” Vihaan said with a blush. Soon, they departed for the trek.

After a while, they had to face a steep patch. Sara was about to fall, but Vihaan caught her from her waist and saved her from falling. Sara took a deep breath and turned around and said, “Hey! Man, you just saved me from a big injury I could have had.” “Nothing can happen to you when I am around,” Vihaan said proudly. (Smiling) “ Yeah!” Sara said.

“Sara come here,” Viren called out. “Let’s walk hand in hand, so the risk of you falling down is nil and Mihir! Can you take the backpack from her?” “Sure!” Mihir said and did exactly what his friend said. Rithwik could not withstand this and saw the smile fading on Vihaan’s face. He and Amaira at once went near him and consoled him. “What happened guys?” Sara asked when she saw the three of them together. “Nothing, just felt that you have really good friends now,” said Rithwik (sarcastically). Sara did not understand what he was saying and decided to ignore and they continued their trek.

They came back to the place from where they started around 5 pm. Everyone was exhausted and expected that they would return to the hotel soon. But it turned out exactly the opposite. The camp instructor said that we are going to a village nearby and that we will have a conversation with the villagers. Everyone got on the bus quickly. They reached the village around 6:30 pm.

Listening to the instructor’s instruction Sara excitedly went to a villager and started talking to her. She interacted with many people whereas her friends were taking pictures of the surroundings. Amaira was creeping that she was hungry and she wanted to eat something. That’s when Priyank sir came and announced that we’d be having dinner right here. Amaira’s eyes lit up. They and the other campers were served delicious Punjabi food. “Sara let’s have food,” Vihaan requested. “You go. I don’t want to have Punjabi food here. I’m going to have the local food.” “Have you gone nuts? Vihaan asked frustrated. “They are not going to entertain you, so you better come with me. Our friends are waiting.” “You go I will come in a while,” Sara said. Vihaan went and narrated the whole scenario to the group. Amaira and Viren were just going near Sara when they were interrupted by the instructor. “What happened?” sir asked. They narrated to them the whole situation. Before he could react, Sara came back with the food. It was Baadi and Phaanu (dal as we call it generally). “Sara, how did you manage this?” asked the camp instructor curiously.

“Sir, meet these two lovely ladies,” she said pointing towards them. They made the food. “Namaste,” the ladies said. “Namaste” the camp instructor replied. They made the food because I requested them to. “Oh great!” Murmured Viren in frustration. “Sir, taste this” Sara said extending her hands near sir.

“This is so delicious,” sir said. “Can I share this with everyone?” she requested. “Of course!” the instructor said. She went to each and every one who was on the trip. Some ate without making a fuss and some did not. After eating everyone happily appreciated the two ladies present there. Once the dinner was done, everyone came back on the bus and were ready to leave. Viren was talking to Priyank sir when Sara dashed into the conversation. “Why are you so grumpy?” she asked Viren. “So, what do you expect from me, to be happy with you and your adventures?” “Calm down Viren, it was not that bad though,” Priyank sir said.

Chapter 9

“Sir, give her a piece of your mind, rather than telling me to calm down. She was not well yesterday and today she is eating the local food, that too which the villagers prepared. Can you for once take care of yourself?” Said Viren and went to his seat. The climate was getting colder. “Why is he over-reacting sir? See how happy people are because of me, they loved the food. They were so excited when they tasted the local food, and if it were risky, the camp instructor would not have permitted me to share it with everyone,” she said. “Give him some time, he will be okay,” Priyank sir replied. Until then you enjoy,” he added. “Yes sir,” Sara replied and went to her seat.

She saw Viren enjoying himself with his friends, so she didn’t want to bother him. She went and sat near Vihaan who was sitting alone as Amaira and had slept on Rithwik’s lap. “Hey! You here?” he asked a bit shocked “Yeah! Just came from Priyank sir’s seat. “Okay, he said and turned to look out. Vihaan knew that if he started to talk to Sara, he wouldn’t be able to resist her. So, he kept quiet. Sara tried to talk but he did not talk properly with enthusiasm. So, Sara gave up. Eventually, Sara slept. When they reached the hotel, Vihaan gently stroked Sara’s hair and woke her up. “When did I sleep?” she asked Vihaan. “A while ago,” he replied. Before she could say anything else, he got up to leave.

The hotel lobby was quite warm, according to the outside temperature. “Viren!” Sara called. “Can we talk for a minute?” “I am sleepy Sara,” he replied plainly. “I know you are tired but just a minute, please.” “Okay,” he replied; “sit on the couch I’ll come in two minutes.” He is still so mad at me, Sara thought to herself. “You are not coming into the room?” Vihaan’s voice broke the chain of her thoughts. “I’ll be coming in a while,” Sara replied. “I want to talk to Viren.” “Now?” He asked a bit shocked. “Yes, he is upset with me because of the food thing.” “So, should I wait?” Vihaan asked. “No Vihaan, you can go to the room, I’ll take care of her” said Viren. “Okay fine,” Vihaan said and went to the room disappointedly.

He tried to sleep but he could not until Sara was back in the room. “What did you want to tell me Sara?” asked Viren dejectedly. “Umm, yeah” Sara said trying to find some suitable words. “Why are you actually mad at me?” Sara asked. “Seriously!?” Viren said throwing his hands in the air. “You don’t know why I am angry?” “All I know is that you’re mad at me but what exactly did I do wrong?” she asked in a calm voice. Viren could not control his anger anymore. “Are you crazy Sara? How could you tell them to make food for you? You were already unwell. You were allowed to talk to them not to eat with them.” “I just wanted to eat the local food and nothing else Viren,” Sara said. “I know that Sara but what about the hygiene? Did you take care of that? No right! That’s why I am angry with you, I hope you now have a clear idea as to why I am mad at you.”

“Okay!” Sara replied after a while. “You can do whatever you want to Sara. I won’t bother you. But you have to take care of yourself first. That day also you were standing near the door and today this…” He left the statement unsaid. “Don’t worry!” Sara said taking Viren’s hand in hers. “I will soon learn to take care of myself and I am really sorry for today. I didn’t know that this one act of mine would hurt you so much.” “It’s okay,” he said giving her a side hug. A shiver ran down from Viren’s spine when he hugged Sara. It was the first time he was talking to a girl and the first time he hugged someone other than his mom. They sat there for a while. Viren wrapped one arm around Sara’s shoulder after the hug. When he saw Sara’s face, it looked like a carefree baby calmly sitting without any fear or tension. He could not resist, he planted a small peck in Sara’s hairs, which made Sara smile. She knew that something was different about Viren, but she was unable to figure out, so soon.

“Let’s go into the room,” Viren said after a long time. “We have a long day tomorrow Sara and you must take rest. You still have a slight fever, though I am not sure about it, let’s go.” “Yes,” Sara said and they proceeded to the room. Everyone had slept, except Vihaan. He was impatiently sitting in the balcony and was waiting for Sara to return. He came to Sara when he saw her entering the room. “Where have you two been?” He asked.

Chapter 10

“We were in the lobby Vihaan,” Viren said. “Why did you not sleep yet?” he added. “I was worried, Sara was not in the room” Vihaan said. “Oh! That’s so sweet of you Vihaan,” Sara said smiling. “Let’s sleep now or else we won’t get up tomorrow.”

“Yes! Tomorrow we are going to go to the dam and do water sports. Woo-hooo I am so happy, the best trip I could ever have,” Sara shouted. “Sshhhh, don’t shout, Mihir and Ronak are sleeping,” hissed Viren. “Yes yes, good night people,” Sara said and went to bed.”

Everyone got up early the next morning. The climate was really beautiful and serene. Sara and Viren were standing on the balcony iring the view. “Good Morning Sara!” Vihaan beamed. “Morning Vihaan,” Sara replied with a smile. “Good morning Vihaan,” Viren said with a strange look. “Oh! Morning Viren,” Vihaan retorted. “You guys came back pretty late last night,” Vihaan said. “Yeah! We wanted to spend some time alone” said Viren. “Ah! Sara, you have started spending time alone at night with people who have entered your life barely two days ago” hissed Vihaan. “What problem do you have with her spending time with anyone?” enquired Viren. “Stop being her bodyguard” he added in a nasty tone. “Seriously?! Me? a bodyguard?” Vihaan shouted at Viren. “Yes you,” said Viren.

“Can you guys stop this?” Sara said frustrated “What’s wrong with both of you? Have you guys lost your plot?” She cried. “No, Sara, I didn’t mean to hurt you,” said Vihaan apologetically. “Neither did I,” Viren added. “Fine, then stop the fight now at once and promise me you guys will be good to each other during the whole trip.” “Yes, we promise,” said Vihaan. “Yeah!” Added Viren. “Let’s get in now and get ready, we have to leave for breakfast in the next 30 minutes,” said

Sara. “Yeah! I will get ready first said Viren if you guys don’t have any problem.” Both of them shrugged. “Fine then,” Viren said and went to the bathroom. Ronak and Mihir were still sleeping, so Sara woke them up.

On the other hand, Amaira and Rithwik had also got up early to ire the morning. Both of them were in their balcony cuddling. They had finally got leisure time together and their friends gave them complete privacy. “I am going to Amaira’s and Rithwik’s room to get ready.” “Why?” Sara asked in surprise. “Give them space yaar” she added. “I just don’t feel like staying around Viren,” he said. “What’s wrong with you, I don’t understand,” Sara replied. “He is getting too touchy and over-protective in your case and interfering too much within our group,” Vihaan thundered. “That’s not at all true Vihaan, you are just overthinking and nothing else,” Sara said in an assuring tone. “Have you told him about Rithwik?” Vihaan enquired. “Not yet but I will soon,” she replied. “That’s what I’ve been trying to say all this time, you just proved it. The Sara who was the strongest among us, who did not talk about her fears ever, who suffered a heartbreaking situation alone, and who never talked about the bad times in two years is talking about them now and sharing all of those things with an unknown stranger. After all, it’s your life and I cannot say much as I was not there with you when you needed me the most. Do whatever you want to but just be careful, you are a precious gem for too many people and one bad decision will lead you to your doom.” he said with a tinge of bitterness and left the room.

Sara was still standing on the balcony and figuring out what it was that Vihaan actually wanted to say. Meanwhile, Vihaan left the room with tears in his eyes. He was very upset about not being with Sara when she needed him the most. He was one of the most important of Rithwik’s life but he never forgave Rithwik for doing those terrible things with Sara. Maybe he was so emotional now because he finally realized his feelings for Sara. If he’d have realized it before, he never would have accepted Rithwik into his life again.

Vihaan banged Amaira’s and Rithwik’s door in frustration. Rithwik opened the door in less than a minute’s time. “Hey, what’s up buddy, you look a little upset,”

Rithwik said a bit cheerfully. “Nothing bhai, I have come here to get ready and I can’t withstand Viren anymore,” he replied. “Come sit here and tell us everything Rithwik said,” handing him the water bottle. He drank a few sips and kept it on the side table beside the bed.

“You know what? They came into the room after 3 am last night,” said Vihaan. “What?!” Amaira gasped. “She needs to get a grip on herself,'' she added in disappointment. “Not just this, she is going to share the Rithwik thing with Viren,” said Vihaan. “Absolute bullshit, she won’t. If she wanted to share that thing with anyone, she would have done it, if she did not do it for over two years, she won’t now,” Rithwik said confidently. “No, she can,'' Amaira said. “If there is the slightest chance of Viren and Sara getting along, she will definitely tell him everything about her past, I know her quite well,” Amaira said. “Dude this is getting serious, I can’t see her going away from me like this,” Vihaan said, almost on the verge of crying. “Guys don’t come to any conclusions, let me talk to her, give me a day or two and I’ll figure out what’s happening,” said Amaira firmly. “Now, Vihaan get ready. We have to leave for breakfast in less than 15 minutes or we will be late.”

After getting ready, everyone met in the breakfast hall. Sara was wearing shorts, which ended in the middle of her thigh and a black t-shirt which had “MY LIFE, MY RULES” imprinted on it. Vihaan felt a tinge of sadness reading that though. Viren was also wearing a black t-shirt. Looking at that Vihaan’s heart sank. He was unable to see Sara being with anyone else. Officially she was not with anyone or planning to be with Viren. They were like best friends to each other, who understood one another and gelled together a lot in a very little time.

Sara put her headphones on as she was in no mood to talk to anyone after her encounter with Vihaan. She was trying to figure out what was wrong with him and what he tried to tell her indirectly. No one disturbed her for a while but then Viren went to her to talk. “What’s up dude? You have turned silent since morning, what’s wrong?” “Nothing,” she replied with a million thoughts in her mind. “Upset about mine and Vihaan’s interaction?” Viren asked suspiciously.

“No not at all, I mean it’s a bit fishy for Vihaan to act in this way, but it’s fine,” she said.

For the rest of the journey, they were silent. Once they reached the dam, Sara forgot everything or rather she forced herself to, she was here to enjoy and not to cry on things which had happened in past, she thought to herself. She wanted to make this trip a memorable one. Seeing the water sports around her she felt happy. She wanted to live her life without bothering what people would think of her. Viren came and patted her back. “Ready? For some adventure Miss?” he asked giving a hand to her. “Definitely,” she said giving her hand into his. For once she did not care what her friends were thinking of her and went ahead with Viren for the sports. She did not bother to call Vihaan, according to their pack.

Chapter 11

Ronak and Mihir also ed them. “Which sport you want to do first?” Viren asked. “Jet Ski but I will drive, is that fine with you?” She asked. “As you wish, let’s go” Viren said without thinking twice.

They saw Priyank sir there; all four of them greeted him and went ahead. They wore their life jackets. “Ready?” Sara asked. “Absolutely!” Viren replied. Sara sat in front taking charge and Viren sat behind. He was silently praying for their safety but he was confident that Sara would do well. Priyank sir gave them the thumbs up. “Are you comfortable?” Sara asked Viren. “Yes, good to go,” he replied. Sara started the Ski. She started slow and then gradually gained speed. Viren clasped his hands around Sara’s waist first gently then tightening his grip when she increased the speed. “I am going to drive rough Viren,” Sara shouted. “Safety is important, take care of that,” he replied. “Trust me on that,” she said. Sara started speeding the jet ski which forced other people to see their adventure. There were mummers all around. Some said it is dangerous, some said Sara was driving insanely. Amaira was horrified seeing her friend and prayed for her safety. Viren was thoroughly enjoying the ride, he trusted Sara.

After almost a 20-minute ride, Sara stopped the jet ski at its place and everyone was staring at her. “How was the ride Viren?” Jeet Bhai asked him. “Awesome!” He replied cheerfully. “Even I am not as good as her in this.” he said frankly. Sara was feeling lively again. She now did not fear speeding. Amaira came running to her. “Are you insane?” she almost shouted. “Not at all, ask him, he enjoyed!” pointing towards Viren. “Only he can okay. Stop doing things that scare me,” Amaira cried. “Yes, my girl,” Sara said giving her a tight hug. “Bhai are you okay?” Ronak and Mihir asked Viren. “Of course. Look at me all well” he replied.

“Let’s do the other sports without wasting time,” Sara ordered. She ed Vihaan and Rithwik on her way to the other sport but did not pay heed and went past them briskly. It was a kind of pang on Vihaan’s heart. He felt dejected, ignored and what not, all at the moment. Sara, Ronak, Mihir and Vihaan did the banana ride next. All of them were eagerly waiting for the fall. Sara was shouting in delight. Her voice increased as the speed of the boat did. She was expecting her landing in the water soon. But it did not happen as expected. It took them more time for the climax to occur and out of the blue the Banana turned and splashhhhhh all four of them were in the water.

The cold water soothed Sara. As she got wet, she forgot all the things she was thinking of the past. After playing in the water for the next 10 minutes, they came out. “It was so refreshing Mihir said.” “True!” Everyone shouted in unison. “One last ride and we are done with the water sports,” Sara declared. They ran towards the third ride. Sara had almost forgotten her friends when she saw Rithwik drive the Jet Ski. He was a bad driver thought and because of that Amaira was continuously shouting in fear. She was on the verge of falling, that’s when Sara noticed her again. “Amaira careful, and hold Rithwik tightly or you will fall off,” Sara shouted in fear. She stared at them until Rithwik stopped the jet ski. Once Amaira was back to normal after the horrific ride she turned to Sara and gave a confident nod. “Come on boys!” Sara said. “Yes!” Ronak replied. “The last ride was also really fun.” Sara had thoroughly enjoyed the water sports. Once they came out of the last ride. A boy with tall height and a thin complex came running towards Sara. “Hello!” He beamed at her. “Hi,” she replied smiling. “I’m Adi, I mean Aditya,” the boy said introducing himself. “Sara,” she replied. “Actually, I wanted to ask if I could ride with you on the jet ski, I want you to drive it. I saw you and it looked pretty amazing.” “Oh! why not I would love to but…” “But what?” he asked impatiently. “But you need to talk to the instructor,” Sara said. “Yeah! I have talked to him; he gave me permission and so I approached you.” “Let’s go then, why waste time,” Sara said with glee.

“I am screwed,” Vihaan said under his breath. Amaira and Rithwik gave him a sympathetic look. “Ready for the ride Adi?” Sara asked excitedly. “Yes!” He shouted back. Adi also clasped his hands around Sara’s waist. Seeing that

anyone could say Vihaan was fuming. Amaira tried to calm him down, but to no avail, it did not work. On the other hand, they had a 15 minutes adventurous ride. After the ride, Adi thanked Sara for the amazing ride and first of all for accepting his request. “Anytime!” Sara exclaimed and went towards her friends.

They lingered around until further instruction. “You look hot!” Viren said in Sara’s ears. Her face was drenched with water, her t-shirt was now hugging her curves perfectly, hairs open and the legs hayeeee. Sara smiled shyly listening to the compliment. She doesn’t do justice to her curves wearing loose tops, Viren thought and smiled to himself. Sara ran to Amaira after she saw her coming from the Banana ride. Both of them took Amaira’s mobile from Kinjal di and clicked some selfies. Then they posed and Viren clicked some beautiful pictures of them. After that Viren handed the mobile to Amaira to click his and Sara’s pics. He kept his hand on Sara’s waist. Sara became a bit rigid to his touch, but was normal in less than a minute’s time.

After that, all of them climbed the bus and were ready to start the journey back to the hotel. The evening schedule was not so tight. Some group games. They came back to the hotel around 3 pm. Everyone had lunch and were instructed to meet in the hotel’s banquet hall at 4 pm. Sara took the keys from Viren and ran to the room to get ready first. She went to the bathroom and quickly washed her hair. After that, she wore a black skin fit jeans and a sleeveless t-shirt. “Where is Vihaan?” she asked carefully drying her hair. “In Rithwik’s room,” Ronak said. “Okay” she replied plainly. After Sara, Mihir and Ronak got ready one after another. Now only Viren was left. “Get ready!” Sara shouted to Viren who was still engrossed in his mobile. He ignored her once because he was in COD and then twice. After her hair was perfectly dried, she went to him and snatched his mobile. “My game!” he shouted. “Go and get ready at once,” she countered. “20 minutes exactly until 4, so be fast.” “Sure,” he said sulking, and went to the bathroom. In the next 15 minutes Viren was ready. “Let’s go” Sara said getting up from her seat. “Don’t you want to tie your hair up Sara?” Viren enquired. “No, I am fine. I’ll make a loose bun after some time.” “Ok guys, let’s go” Mihir said. They locked the room and went downstairs. Ronak gave the keys to the receptionist for room cleaning.

Chapter 12

Everyone came down to the dining room. “What do you want to drink Viren? Coffee or tea?” “ Coffee, thanks” he replied rolling his eyes. “Seriously will you stop sulking” Sara said and left before he could reply. “Here take this,” Sara handed him the cup and sat beside Mihir. “Sara listen,” Mihir said. “Yeah?” Sara replied. “Leave him for a while and he will be fine. He is upset about his game because none of us disturb him when he is playing and you directly snatched the mobile so,” said Mihir. “Okay fine, I am going to the banquet hall, you guys come when you are done here.”

“Hey Sara,” Vihaan shouted from a corner. He was examining Sara for a while now. “Hi Vihaan,” Sara greeted. “Come sit, I want to chat with you for a while,” Vihaan added. Sara sat with her legs crossed on the couch facing Vihaan.” Listen, are you ok Vihaan? I have been noticing you for a while now. Something is bothering you a lot, maybe it’s Viren,” said Sara. “No no, everything is fine just that we all are not enjoying like a group so,” replied Vihaan. “That’s not possible dude. You know I just hate Rithwik and it was my trip and I am going to enjoy it, with or without my best friend. Actually, both of us are enjoying but just without each other,” she said with a tinge of sadness.

“Let’s go in the hall now, we are getting late don’t think about this now,” Sara added. She was about to leave when Vihaan asked directly, “Do you like Viren?”. “What?” She turned in horror towards Vihaan. “Seriously?! Are you kidding?” She asked almost choking. “NO! I am not! I have noticed you. The girl who in the last two years has avoided boys except for her friends is enjoying with a totally new group of boys, there is a reason behind this definitely. I know you Sara Seghal, I know you very well,” said Vihaan and left. Sara sat on the couch clueless of what to say next. Vihaan’s words have affected her definitely. She sat there for a few more minutes. She felt like the world came crashing over her. She saw her past in front of her eyes. What Rithwik had done. After that what she did for the last two years and now what she was doing. She just

realized that she was talking to boys after almost 2 years. She squirmed in her seat because of the new feeling she had. The words she heard cut through the barriers she had created guarding her heart.

“Hey are you okay?” Viren asked. “Sara?” he asked again. “Sara!” he said shaking her this time. Tears started running from her eyes. Viren settled beside her and said, “Hey, strong girl why are you shaking so much? What has happened? Please tell me.” Vihaan was staring at them both from a distance now and he got pissed seeing Viren there. He was angry for what he did, for confronting Sara when she was so happy and did not expect this hurting Sara the way it hurt her. “Sara, what’s wrong with you? Will you say something please?” Viren asked again. Amaira came downstairs and saw Sara. She rushed towards them. “Viren, what happened to her?” she asked as calmly as she could. “I don’t know, she told she was going into the hall, but she was sitting here in this condition,” replied Viren

Amaira hugged her friend tightly. Sara reciprocated her hug and cried her heart out. After a while, she pulled out of the hug, wiped her tears, drank water offered by Mihir, and stood up. “Let’s go guys we are getting late,” she said. “What’s wrong with you, will you tell us please?” Viren asked desperately. “Nothing, let’s leave we are already late,” she replied bluntly. “Fine!” Viren said throwing his hands into the air.

They came in the hall finally. Viren was very frustrated with Sara’s attitude but decided to give her space. When they entered the hall, Priyank sir asked them why they were late. After a few minutes of explanation, sir told them about the game they were going to play. They were going to play treasure hunt. “Sir I am going to sit” Sara said pointing towards a chair. “Why? Don’t you want to play your favorite game Sara? You don’t want to keep your record of winning?” Sir asked. “Which record are you talking about sir?” Mihir asked curiously. “The record is, in whichever team Sara plays when she is on camp, that team wins,” Priyank sir enlightened everyone with the fact. “I don’t feel like sir and I am not feeling well” she said and left. Vihaan went to her and said “Sara, I am really

sorry. I did not mean to hurt you, please cheer up,” said Vihaan. “Just leave Vihaan, I don’t want to talk to you, stay away from me,” Sara said in frustration. Vihaan went away from her dejectedly. “It’s all my fault,” Vihaan said to himself in a low voice.

Amaira heard their conversation and went near Vihaan. “What did you say to Sara?” she asked Vihaan in anger. “I told her nothing much okay. I just asked her if she likes Viren and confronted her about Rithwik’s thing nothing else,” said Vihaan. “Have you lost it Vihaan?” she said as loud as to people in the hall to turn towards her. “Are you okay girl?” The camp instructor asked. Viren, Rithwik, Mihir and Ronak came running towards them. “Yes Sir, I am absolutely fine sir. Sorry for my behavior sir,” she added. “What’s wrong with you guys?” Rithwik asked Vihaan and Amaira. “Tell your girlfriend to go from here,” Vihaan countered. “You should bloody shut up,” Amaira retorted. “Vihaan, why are you talking to Amaira like this?” Viren asked in confusion. “Yes?” Rithwik added.

“Why did you ask Sara that question, answer me” said Amaira fuming. “You are no one to ask me that thing, I asked Sara and it’s none of your business,” Vihaan said. “Dude, how could you do this to her,” Amaira said almost on the verge of crying. “You know, how sensitive she is in this case.” “What’s happening? Will someone tell us?” Ronak asked in desperation. “You ask her and Sara,” Vihaan said and left. “Amaira please tell me what’s wrong” Viren requested in fear. Amaira explained the situation to all of them. “Oh shit! How could he,” Rithwik said. “That’s what I’ve been trying to understand.” Amaira added. “I am not understanding anything,” Viren said.” What’s with Rithwik and Sara?” he demanded. “It’s not our place to tell you anything brother,” said Rithwik. “Let’s go to Sara and take care of her.”

Chapter 13

Sara was very angry with Vihaan, but she had decided to enjoy the trip and not let her past take over her present. So, she went to Priyank Sir and told them she wanted to play and maintain her record. Everyone saw her playing. “She is just running from her problems,” Amaira said even before she could process it herself. “Let’s enjoy for now, we will talk to Sara later,” Rithwik added. “Yes! This is the best for now,” Viren added. Everyone ed Sara. There were 5 groups of 7 people each. One group was having 6 people only. Sir gave the first hint to all of them. Sara and her friends were in same group. Viren handed the clue to Sara.

Clue 1- Finding the first clue will be a treat, look for it where you get something to eat….

“Eat .. I mean kitchen,” Sara said when others were figuring out what’s written. “Not the kitchen, the dining room,” Viren added. “Let’s go” Amaira said. They all ran and started searching, near the food counter. After 2 minutes of searching, they got the second clue kept under the tissue papers.

Clue 2- Now that you have cleaned your hands, search for the Head Master’s hat.

“Who’s the head master here?” Ronak bluttered. “Think guys think…” Mihir said. Everyone thought for a while but did not exactly understand. “Head Master here means the Camp Instructor guys,” Rithwik said. “Ah! Yes, and he wears a round hat every time we go out.” Everyone went near the instructor but he had not worn the hat. They searched and searched that’s when Sara spotted a hat in

one corner of the hall. She ran and picked up the hat. She did not get the clue there. “Oh shit! We did it wrong guys. Let’s read the clue once more.” “Now that you have cleaned your hands, search for the Head Master’s hat.” “This is the correct hat,” Amaira said. “Guys, Head Master’s hat means it can be that we have to go near the camp instructor.” They ran across the hall to the camp instructor. “Sir, your hat” Sara said giving him the hat. “Thank you!” He smiled. “Sir the clue please” Viren said.

“Here you go,” he handed the third clue. “Yes!” Everyone shouted in delight.

Clue 3 – The next place you’ll need to look, is the place you dance.

“Stage is the only place,” Sara shouted. They all ran towards the stage. It was very big, so everyone divided the place. “Sara looks fine now,” Viren said to Amaira. “I don’t think so, she is just hiding the emotions behind her smile.” “I got the clue,” Mihir shouted. “Pretty fast huh!” Rithwik said. Everyone went to Ronak.

Clue 4 – Wanting more? Why don’t you look the front door?

Sara and Viren ran towards the front door, everyone followed. They searched and found the last clue very easily. While the other groups were still on their third clue.

Clue 5- “The place where father of the universe resides”

“Father of the universe, hehhh what’s that,” Amaira said. “Father of the universe means the God, right?” Vihaan asked. “Genius!” Sara said and turned to see who cracked it. Seeing Vihaan her face turned pale. Viren could feel the tension increasing. “Let’s go to the temple in the lobby guys. We will get our hunt there.” Viren took Sara’s hand in his and they started running towards the temple. They got the last card kept near the murti of Ganeshji. Rithwik took the card and read it aloud.

“This is your hunt guys; you have done it”

“Yeah! We did it!” Viren shouted in delight. Ronak and Mihir collected all the cards and gave it to Sara. “The record is maintained girl. The team in which you participate has won once more.” She took the cards and handed it to the Camp Instructor and they were patiently waiting for the others to complete their hunt.

Chapter 14

“Vihaan listen, I want to talk to you,” said Rithwik. “I am in no mood to talk to anyone”, said Vihaan and left. Meanwhile after everyone completed their hunt, the camp instructor declared the winners. Sara was very happy with the win. She thanked everyone in her team for their mind-blowing efforts which lead them to success. The camp instructor called all the 5 leaders to collect the prizes on behalf of their teams. Sara was the first one to collect. She had to select the price. There were 5 cold-drink bottles kept there and 5 different chocolates. This is the tradition of the camp. The winning team gets to select their treat first.

Sara turned to her team to ask what should she pick. Everyone shouted mountain dew in unison and the pack of Kitkats. She picked up both of the things and walked towards her team. Then the second one selected pepsi and dairy milk and the list went one. Sara distributed the kitkats and everyone took a sip of the cold drink. It was very soothing after the intense game. One kitkat was left in her hand. It belonged to Vihaan. “What should I do of this?” she asked everyone pointing at the kitkat. “Give it to me, I’ll hand it over to Vihaan,” said Rithwik earnestly. “You better do,” Viren replied playfully. It was dinner time by then. Everybody headed to the banquet hall for the delicious dinner.

“Rithwik do you know where Vihaan is?”, Asked Sara. “Nope! I tried to talk to him but he refused and left,” replied Rithwik. “Give him some time, he will be fine” said Amaira. “Dude, by the way, why are you angry with him?” Rithwik asked Sara. “Let’s not have this discussion please,” Sara requested. “Okay fine, if you don’t feel like sharing then it’s okay” replied Rithwik.

“Guys! We are going to Mussoorie tomorrow, is no one excited about it?” Ronak asked everyone.

“Aree we are brother, just the serious talks and nothing else.” said Viren.

“Let’s forget everything for a while and focus on the trip we are on, isn’t this the best idea?” Mihir asked.

“Yeah! I agree,” Ronak added.

“You don’t know the exact matter, which is why you guys are asking to focus on the trip,” Rithwik said bitterly.

“Dude that’s your personal matter, why will it bother us at all. We have come here for fun and we will concentrate on that only” said Ronak.

“Will you people, please stop this?” Sara said sadly.

“Cut the crap guys, Ronak is right.” she added.

“So, you don’t spoil your mood by listening to Vihaan, as simple as that.” said Rithwik.

“Don’t blame her, what Vihaan told was totally inappropriate.” barked Amaira.

“Stop it you two, it’s my matter and I will deal with it,” said Sara. “And you are correct Ronak let’s enjoy the trip rather than cribbing about something that’s never going to change,” she added.

“If we are done with this, can we go to our rooms and pack our bags for tomorrow?” Viren asked politely.

“Yeah! Sure, let’s go.” added Amaira.

Everybody headed to their rooms. “Where is the room key Mihir?” asked Sara.

“I gave it to Vihaan.” he replied.

“Ok, so he is back there, let’s go” Sara said.

Sara banged the door very hard. Vihaan jerked from his sleep and went to open the door. Everyone entered the room and started packing their bags. Vihaan was done with his packing so he went to sleep again. After that everyone went to sleep. Viren wanted to talk to Sara, but he thought this was not a good time.

Chapter 15

“Good Morning Viren,” Sara greeted.

“Hey sleepy head, you sleep too much.” Viren complained.

“Ah yes, I’ve been told” Sara replied with a puppy face. “Sleep keeps me calm” she added.

“Yeah! That’s true. Now get ready fast and we will go down for breakfast,” said Viren.

“Where is everyone?” She asked.

“Downstairs, you are the last one to get up,” he said.

“Yeah! I’ll get ready and we’ll go down,” Sara said and went to the bathroom.

After a while, both of them came down. Everyone was at the breakfast table. “Hello both of you,” Amaira beamed.

“Heyy,” Sara replied.

“Get settled both of you and have breakfast, then we have to leave for Mussoorie,” said Ronak.

“Okay, by the way, where is Vihaan?” Sara asked.

“There he is, sitting there, alone” said Rithwik pointing towards Vihaan.

“You had a talk with him?” Sara enquired.

“No, we just came. I thought I’d talk to him in the bus,” said Rithwik.

“Fine,” Sara countered.

Everyone chit-chatted for a while and completed their breakfast. “Everyone listen,” the camp instructor called out. “We are leaving in 15 minutes. Get ready and come with your luggage to the lobby. Submit the room keys to Kinjal.” All the campers did as they were instructed.

“Sara, Can I talk to you for a minute?” Vihaan asked. “No Vihaan, I don’t want to talk to you” Sara replied bitterly. “For a minute please,” he requested. “No Sara said firmly and sat in the bus. Viren accompanied her and the rest of the people went and sat in their places. “Vihaan, will you stop cribbing and talk to me?” Asked Rithwik.

“No, until Sara doesn’t, I won’t talk to anyone” countered Vihaan and put his headphones on. “This man has gone crazy” muttered Rithwik under his breath. Amaira patted Rithwik’s back.

Once they reached Mussoorie they were allotted rooms. Here the rooms were so small that only 2 people were in a room. But Ronak, Mihir decided to stay in the same room with Viren. They wanted some time with their friend so they went to Viren and requested him. He agreed immediately to his friends. Once they checked in to their respective rooms, Amaira went and jumped on Sara. They finally got some time with each other. Amaira was feeling very sorry that she was not able to give time to her bestie! Even Sara wanted some time with Amaira, she was fed up with the chaos she was in.

“Amaira listen” Sara said in a cranky tone.

“What’s wrong with you Sara?” she countered.

“Nothing, I just can’t ignore the past and welcome the present” she said.

“You are still focusing on what Vihaan said?” Amaira asked.

“Dude, I am trying to ignore it but I can’t because he was right,” she said.

“He is just bullshitting Sara, he is just harassing you by saying these things,” Amaira consoled.

“No Amaira, What Rithwik did was absolutely wrong and the point here is that it’s still affecting me,” Sara cried.

Amaira hugged her tight and thought about the mistake she made. Meanwhile, Ronak and Mihir were talking to Viren. “Hey, brother is everything okay?” Mihir asked Viren.

“Kind of Mihir, something is affecting Sara a lot and she is not sharing it with anyone” said Viren.

“Why is it affecting you so much? Do you like Sara?” Ronak asked.

“Hey, hey this is too much okay. Sara is the first girl I am talking to but this is too much. I don’t like her but I surely care for her.” Viren said. Mihir and Ronak exchanged a look and shrugged their shoulders.

While in the third room, Vihaan was running away from Rithwik and his interrogation. He didn’t feel like talking to Rithwik. He felt guilty for not being there for Sara when she wanted someone to console her. After all this drama everyone got ready and came down. They all waited for the camp instructor to instruct them of their further activity.

“Hello everyone and welcome to Mussoorie,” the camp instructor greeted everyone. “Today firstly, we are going to have lunch and then proceed to Kempty falls. Campers who want to go in the water and under the waterfall are requested to carry an extra pair of clothes with them. After that, we will go to

Christ Church, Picture Palace, Company Garden and then to Landour Clock Tower. After that we will return to the hotel and that’s it for the day. Hope you guys enjoy the day. Now everyone relax for a while. Lunch will be served in some time.”

“Dude listen,” Sara called Amaira.

“Yeah?” she asked.

“I am going to the room to get extra clothes, do you need some too?” Sara inquired.

“No, we are not going to come in the water,” Amaira said.

“Why so?” Sara asked. “Rithwik is feeling a bit feverish, so we decided not to go in the water,” Amaira replied simply.

“At-least you can come,” said Sara. “No dear, you go” Amaira said. “Fine, call me when lunch is ready. I’ll be in the room” Sara said and stormed towards the room. “We should also go and bring some clothes,” said Ronak. “Sure, let’s go” said Viren and they went in the room. They packed their extra clothes and were about to leave when Viren said, “Guys you go, I want to meet Sara. I’ll come with her.”

“Okay boss,” Ronak said and smiled.

“Sara,” Viren called out ringing her doorbell. “Coming,” she replied.

She opened the door. “Were.. you crying Sara? Viren asked seeing her eyes which had now turned red. “No, she said. Come in, or are you going to interrogate me from right here,” she added smiling nervously. “No, let’s go in” Viren said.

Chapter 16

They both went into the room. Sara sat on the edge of the bed and Viren sat on the couch facing her. Sara’s puffy eyes were enough to explain that she had cried a lot.

“Sara what’s the thing with you, why are you crying so much?’’, asked Viren.

‘’It.. it’s nothing,’’ replied Sara with a breaking voice.

Viren went and sat beside Sara and cupped her face.

‘’What’s the matter?’’ he asked again.

Sara did not say anything, tears flowing out from her eyes. She pulled Viren into a tight hug. He consoled her, rubbing her back. She cried her heart out. After a while she calmed down, and went to the bathroom to wash her face. Viren was standing near the door, staring at her. Once she came out, she applied some cream on her face, combed her hair into a bun and was ready to leave.

“Let’s go, Viren. Everybody must be waiting” she said.

“Yeah! Sure.’’

He wanted to talk to Sara but he did not force her to speak. He knew she would reveal everything to him when she was comfortable, when she was confident about it.

They both went downstairs with their backpacks. Everybody was lingering in the lobby. Sara and Viren ed them. ‘’Rithwik are you okay now?’’ Asked Sara.

‘’Yeah! A bit, the climate changes nothing else,’’, he replied.

‘’True, did you eat some medicine?’’

‘’Yes, he ate paracetamol,’’ replied Amaira on his behalf.

‘’ Oh cool! If you need something more you can ask me,’’ said Sara.

‘’Yeah! After all, she’s a medical student,’’ Ronak pitched in.

‘’Let’s have lunch,’’ Mihir said.

‘’ Sara can you talk to me for a second?’’ Requested Amaira. ‘’Sure, you guys go ahead. We will you in a while,’’ said Sara.

‘’Sara, did you talk to Vihaan after the fight?’’ Asked Amaira. ‘’No, did you?’’

‘’ We tried, but he is saying, he will talk to everyone, only if you talk to him first..’’ ‘’Absolute bullshit, I am not going to talk to him. He’s nobody to question my past or my present,’’ she added.

‘’Sara, I am not forcing you to talk to him, I was just informing that he is not talking to anyone,’’ said Amaira calmly.

‘’ Fine if he doesn’t want to, let him be that way,’’ said Sara shrugging.

They both came and ed everyone for lunch. After a while, they boarded the bus going to Christ Church. After travelling for 45 minutes, they reached the destination. Everyone was awestruck, seeing their surroundings. The guide told them the history of the church. They clicked some pictures there, then went to Picture Palace.

Sara was with Viren, Ronak and Mihir. She felt light after crying. She felt happy that she had a shoulder to cry. On the other-hand Amaira and Rithwik were also enjoying themselves thoroughly. Vihaan was roaming here and there, clicking pictures for his journal. He also tried to stay calm. Rithwik tried multiple times to talk to Vihaan but he did not say a word.

After going to Company Garden, Gun hill, and Landour Clock Tower, they went to Kempty falls. Everyone changed their clothes and went under the fall. Sara and Viren walked hand in hand and went under the fall. Sara felt very light sitting exactly where the water was falling. The chilling water made her heart feel lighter. Amaira clicked some pictures of Sara’s candid form from outside.

Then clicked a group pic in which Sara was standing with Ronak, Mihir and Viren.

She stilled when Viren put his hand around her waist. After a while everyone came out and dried themselves thoroughly. Viren was staring at Sara when she was drying her hair. She caught him staring.

‘’What she asked?’’ She asked, giggling.

‘’Nothing,’’ he replied, turning his face away.

It was evening time, and the temperature had decreased. Sara wore her jacket. Everyone boarded the bus to come back to the hotel. Sara felt sleepy, so she kept her head on Viren’s shoulder and slept. Viren caressed Sara’s hair gently. They were not fully dried from the waterfall. Once they reached the hotel, Viren whispered in Sara’s ears to wake her up. Everybody got off the bus and went to the restaurant for dinner.

This time Vihaan was also sitting with them, but he did not talk.

‘’Sara, have something .. just don’t drink soup,’’ Amaira said.

‘’I don’t feel like it,’’ Sara said in sleepish tone.

‘’Amaira, finish your dinner fast, I am very sleepy. Let’s go in the room and

sleep,’’ Rithwik said.

‘’You go and sleep. I will come in a while.’’

‘’Can you come with me, for today please?’’ Sara pleaded. ‘’We have plans, Sara. Sorry..’’ Rithwik said.

‘’We can accompany you until Amaira returns, if you are ok with it,’’ said Mihir.

‘’That’s so nice of you, thanks.’’ Sara said.

‘’Sara, I want to talk to you,’’ Vihaan said.

‘’Vihaan, I have told you many times that I don’t want to talk to you. I think I was very loud and clear,’’ she added.

‘’ I just want 5 minutes, I am not that bad,’’ pleaded Vihaan.

‘’From each of us?’’ Asked Ronak out of curiosity.

‘’Yes!’’ Vihaan said.

‘’Ok fine, let’s go to our room,’’ said Amaira.

Everyone headed to the room.

Chapter 17

‘’Vihaan, you have 5 minutes, say whatever you want quickly. I am sleepy,’’ barked Sara in frustration.

‘’Sara, listen, I am really sorry for whatever I said to you that day, I didn’t mean to say it..’’

He waited for Sara to respond, but she did not so he continued with his speech.

‘’Sara, I love you,’’ Vihaan said these words, finally.

Everybody was staring at Vihaan.

Sara did not respond to him.

‘’Yes Sara, it’s been a year now. I did not tell you because I knew you were too hurt with what Rithwik had done to you.’’

Viren looked at Sara. The eye was for begging her to say something.

‘’Look, Vihaan..’’ Sara said, after a while. ‘’I appreciate your feelings for me, but I really don’t want to get into this. I have never seen you this way and I don’t love you.’’

‘’I know Sara, you don’t love me and I respect that. I just want you to forgive me for being on the wrong side during Rithwik’s issue. I am sorry for ing him-’’

‘’ What the fuck are you saying?’’ Rithwik blasted.

‘’Please, shut up Rithwik. I have realized my mistake and you were wrong with her. Even if you deny it, you were wrong.’’

Sara was rooted to her place. Ronak, Viren and Mihir stared at Rithwik.

‘’Sara, Rithwik and I being on this trip was not a coincidence.’’

‘’What the hell are you saying, Vihaan?’’ Rithwik cut him off.

‘’ Shut up Rithwik, let him speak!’’ Roared Sara.

‘’Vihaan, don’t do this,’’ Amaira begged.

‘’Sorry, to late Amaira,’’ he replied. ‘’Okay, us being here was all planned by Amaira,’’ said Vihaan and waited for the reaction.

Sara was in shock; blood had drained out from her face. She looked at Amaira, who looked down towards the floor, shame taking over her.

‘’Seriously?’’ Were the only words, Sara could say.

Tears streaming from her eyes, she sat on the bed motionless.

‘’Amaira, how could you do this to me?’’ Asked Sara.

‘’She did it for me,’’ Rithwik said.

‘’I am not talking to you jackass, so keep your mouth shut!’’ Shouted Sara.

Rithwik was about to say something, but Amaira cut him off. ‘’I am sorry for all the shit, it has happened because-’’

Before Sara could say anything Vihaan replied, “Amaira what you have done to Sara, no best friend can do it. Hats off, having such a person as a best friend, I would be blessed to have no friend.’’

‘’Sara, start speaking what’s in your heart. Don’t cry alone, people don’t care anyway. Thanks for listening to me,’’ he said and left the room.

Rithwik sat on the couch in frustration.

‘’Amaira, thank you very much, this is the best trip of my life,’’ Sara said and stormed out of the room.

Viren, Ronak and Mihir also ed her.

‘’Sara!’’ Viren called and ran behind her.

She stood at the end of the lobby. Her breathing was hard, she felt it difficult to stand. Her knees felt weak. Her body gave up, she was about to touch the ground when Viren catched her.

‘’Sara,’’ he whispered.

They sat on the floor in the lobby. Sara hugged Viren tightly and cried until her tears were dried. Ronak and Mihir were standing right next to them the whole time. They bought water for her. She drank it, and thanked them for their gesture.

‘’Viren, I want to talk to you,’’ she said finally.

‘’You guys go into our room and talk,’’ said Ronak.

‘’Where will you stay then?’’ Asked Sara, puzzled.

‘’ We will go to Vihaan’s room. He is alone, anyway. Rithwik is with Amaira. We have talked to him; he was ok with it.’’

‘’ Even I want to talk to him,’’ said Sara. ‘’But later. right now, Viren, I want to talk to you.’’

‘’Ok fine, let’s go.’’

Once they came into the room, Sara settled on the couch and Viren on the bed.

‘’Viren,’’ Sara said. ‘’This is the first time in the last 2 years, I am sharing something. You must be thinking what Vihaan was saying back then about Rithwik. Here it is:

‘’It all started 3 years back. Amaira and I are childhood friends. It was when I was 18 she introduced me to Rithwik. He was Amaira’s best friend. We started spending time together and eventually became very close friends. Amaira had a boyfriend back then. So, she decided to set me up with Rithwik. She talked me into thinking Rithwik was a good guy. Eventually I started feeling that I have a crush on him. It was obvious, I trusted Amaira the most so I decided to give it a chance.

‘’They told me Rithwik needs a person whom he can trust a lot. I asked Rithwik out, but he denied. I didn’t think much of it then. Amaira told me to spend time with him; he will give in soon. After a few months, I tried again.. but the result was the same, he still denied. I was someone who believed that everything has a right time. I was not in a relationship. Rithwik rejected me twice. It was not a shock to me. Still Amaira pushed me.

‘’One day we were alone at Rithwik’s place. He was talking to me, but he started getting touchy. I tried to stay away but he did not give up.’’ Tears were streaming down Sara’s face.

‘’Sara, it’s ok, calm down,’’ Viren said.

‘’Yeah..yeah I am fine,’’ she replied.

‘’Stop crying first and breath,’’ Viren said.

Sara calmed a bit and continued.

‘’He k-kissed me,’’ said Sara, her voice breaking. ‘’He forcefully kissed me.;’’ Sara finally broke down.

Viren went and consoled her. He hugged her. All the while she spoke.

‘’This is the first time I am sharing this to anyone. I now feel that someone’s taken the burden off my shoulders.’’

‘’Sara, why did you not tell anyone?’’ asked Viren distraught.

‘’I did not because, these days people think that a kiss is not a big deal. I did not, because I thought if I speak people will make a fool of me. Thanks for hearing me out..’’

‘’So, your friends don’t know about all this,’’ he asked, incredulous.

‘’No! they don’t,’’ Sara said in a low voice.

‘’How did Amaira end up with Rithwik? Asked Viren.

‘’Rithwik asked her out a year later after this and she said yes.’’

‘’She did not care about you at all? The way you were hurt?’’ He asked.

‘’No, she did not. In fact, she told me everything after she started going out with him. Maybe 2 months later.’’

‘’Oh my god..That’s horrible,’’ he tried to console her.

‘’Yeah.. I didn’t care then, but what she did to me today is absolutely unacceptable. I could not think of that. She could have asked me. I would’ve agreed if she wanted to bring Rithwik so bad.’’ I couldn't stop the tears anymore.

‘’It’s ok Sara, shit happens, but you can’t stop right?’’ Viren asked, but Sara couldn’t respond.

‘’Look at me,’’ Viren demanded.

Viren turned Sara’s face towards him and tilted her chin up so she was looking at him.

‘’Sara do you know the Forgive, Forget rule?’’ Asked Viren.

She shook her head.

‘’Okay then, listen. Forgive means, forgiving the person for everything wrong he has done. Forgetting means, not actually forgetting things but it should be something that you don’t think often about. At times on the trip when you decided to not think about the past and Rithwik, you enjoyed it. But the moment you started to think about it, you got sad and upset. Past is history, future is the mystery and present is an opportunity. Now it’s upon you, what you consider, ‘past, future or present’,’’ said Viren.

Sara considered what Viren was saying.

She finally spoke, ‘’Even if I tell everyone what Rithwik had done to me, no one’s going to consider it, and it can create a conflict between Amaira and Rithwik which I don’t want. So, it’s better I forget what’s happened and move on, rather than living in the past.’’

‘’That’s right, Sara. You always have me, bad or good,’’ he added.

Sara grinned, she felt lighter now. She was focused, now that she only wanted to enjoy this trip at any cost. Sara and Viren snuggled on the couch and sat there for a while more.

On the other-hand Amaira was very upset with what had happened. She was mad at Rithwik, too.

‘’She is my best friend Rithwik. This was our dream vacation, and if you had not interfered, we would be enjoying this trip together, rather fighting like cats and dogs,’’ she said angrily.

‘’Now you are blaming me Amaira, seriously?’’ Retorted Rithwik.

‘’We are fighting because of that bitch,’’ he snarled.

‘’She is not a bitch!’’ Amaira shouted. “There’s no point talking to you, I am sleeping.’’

Chapter 18

“Let’s sleep Sara, we have a long day tomorrow,’’ said Viren.

‘’I don’t feel like it,’’ she replied.

‘’Why? What you want to do then?’’

‘’I just want to sit here and cuddle,’’ she said in a low voice.

‘’Are you ok Sara?’’ Viren asked concerned.

‘’Yes, don’t behave like I am asking for your kidney,’’ she laughed. ‘’I am someone who loves snuggling, nothing else,’’ she said, shrugging.

‘’Okay fine, let’s hit the bed at least, so that we are relaxed for tomorrow,’’ Viren said making a puppy face.

‘’Okay fine,’’ she said and got up.

They settled on the bed and cuddled under the sheets and eventually slept. It was

a long day.

Sara woke up fresh the other day.

‘’Good Morning, Cuddle partner!’’ said Viren, who was sitting on the couch.

‘’Viren, come ...Viren….’’ Sara mumbled, still sleeping on the bed.

Viren went and sat beside her, on the bed. Sara moved and kept her head on Viren’s lap and slept for a while. Neither of them uttered a word. Viren was playing with Sara’s hair. After a while they got up to get ready in their own rooms.

After getting ready everyone came down for breakfast. After the breakfast everyone departed for the adventure activities.

Vihaan walked up to Sara in the bus.

‘’Hey Sara, I want to talk to you, can I?’’ He asked.

‘’Sure,’’ Sara said and made place for Vihaan to sit.

‘’Are you still upset with me? He asked eagerly.

‘’Pretty much! But I am happy that you stood up and said the truth,’’ she said.

Vihaan shrugged.

’I was going to say it the very first time when I saw disappointment on your face because of our presence. But then I thought of Amaira and did not.’’

’Yeah, I can understand,’’ she replied simply.

You’re not hurt about what I said right? When I told you, I love you..’’ he asked. “If it did, I am really sorry about it. I really apologize for whatever happened that ruined your trip.’’

‘’Ah! You made my trip by being true to me,’’ she replied with a smile. ‘’Don’t worry, everything will be fine soon’’

By then they reached the location. Everyone got off the bus and were in awe when they saw the setup of the activities.

They were going to do a skywalk which was 360 feet above ground level, and the sky bridge which was 300 feet above. Sara was very excited seeing it. She was the one who ran to Priyank sir and declared that she wanted to be the first one to do the activities. She got harnessed and was ready for the skywalk. Everyone looked at her very curiously.

‘’Go Sara go!’’ Viren shouted.

She gave a thumbs up and started. With no time, she completed the activity.

Everyone wanted to know how it was when she came down.

‘’It was pretty amazing guys!’’ She grinned.

After her everyone did the skywalk, too. When she saw Amaira harnessed, she panicked. Vihaan came running to Sara, panicked too.

‘’What is she up to?’’ Sara asked frantically.

‘’Why are you both panicking?’’ Ronak asked.

‘’Amaira has fear of heights. She will faint if she does this,’’ said Sara.

‘’Rithwik knows this?’’ Asked Viren.

‘’Of course,’’ said Vihaan, agitated.

Vihaan ran towards Rithwik, horror on his face.

‘’Stop her, you dumbass!’’ Shouted Vihaan.

‘’Let her overcome her fear. Don’t interfere,’’ retorted Rithwik.

‘’She will faint,’’ Vihaan countered.

‘’No, she will not, fucking look.’’

Vihaan gave a fearful nod to Sara. Before Sara could say anything, Amaira started walking. All eyes glued on Amaira and fingers crossed that nothing should happen to her.

Surprisingly, Sara started shouting, ‘’Breath, Amaira, breath!’’

Everyone saw Sara in confusion.

‘’Amaira breath, you can do it!’’ Sara shouted again.

Before she could say anything else, Amaira fainted.

She was hanging in the air, thanks to the harness. They brought Amaira on the ground carefully. Everyone ran towards her. Sara tried to get her heart under control. There was sweat on Amaira’s forehead. Rithwik panicked seeing her. Viren ed him. Kinjal took some water and sprinkled on her face.

Two people rubbed her hands and two others rubbed her legs. After a couple minutes, Amaira came regained consciousness. As soon as she saw Sara, she hugged her tightly.

‘’One breath at a time Amaira,’’ Sara whispered in her ears.

Gradually, she went back to normal. Rithwik came and hugged Amaira and asked her how she was.

Sara was about to leave, when Amaira caught Sara by her wrist.

‘’Thank you so much she said,’’ tears dripping out from her eyes. ‘’I am really sorry for the mess I made,’’ she sobbed.

‘’It’s okay,’’ Sara said, and pulled her in another hug.

Everything finally went back to normal. After completing other activities, they came back to the hotel. Everyone went to their rooms to get ready for the dinner and DJ night.

Chapter 19

Sara and Amaira sat in the room for a while before getting ready.

‘’So how did you feel...all alone in the camp because of me?’’ Asked Amaira.

‘’I felt alone, but not that much. Thanks to Ronak, Mihir and Viren,’’ Sara replied smilingly.

‘’Why the hell did you decide to do the skywalk?’’ Asked Sara, giving her a stern look.

‘’Actually, it was Rithwik who was telling me to overcome my fears. He convinced me to do that,’’ said Amaira shrugging.

‘’What a jackass,’’ said Sara, rolling her eyes.

After talking for some time, both of them got ready for the DJ night. Sara wore a shimmering one piece, with sequences all over.

Amaira wore a crop top with high waist jeans. They came down to the banquet hall for dinner.

‘’Oh! I am going to die seeing such stunning and gorgeous girls,’’ beamed Viren.

‘’ Finally, seeing you both together is so amazing,’’ added Vihaan.

‘’Yeah! Finally, the constant war has ended,’’ said Ronak.

‘’Okay, guys, let’s have dinner and go, I want to dance,’’ said Sara.

‘’Yes, me too,’’ added Amaira.

They clicked some pictures together and went for dinner. Everybody ate their dinner quickly and headed to the hall where the night was planned.

The atmosphere there was very thrilling. Amaira and Sara ran and hit the dance floor. After a while, even the boys ed them. Everyone was trying to match with the beat but only Amaira and Sara could do that perfectly. First time since the trip started, they enjoyed the evening together. The night ended early as they had to travel to Viratkhai the next day.

Everyone came to Sara and Amaira’s room for spending some more time together, before heading to their own rooms.

‘’Let’s play something,’’ suggested Amaira.

‘’No, let’s talk, if we start playing now, we will not sleep on time,’’ said Ronak.

‘’True as it is, I have not slept a single night properly,’’ said Sara.

‘’I apologize for that,’’ Amaira said making’, a puppy face.

‘’We,’’ added Vihaan.

‘’It’s ok you guys,’’ Sara said, pulling both of them in a tight hug.

‘’So, how are we going to sleep? I mean, who is going to sleep in whose room?’’ Mihir said, playfully eyeing Sara and Viren.

‘’Ah! Good question Mihir,’’ Sara said, tapping her finger on her lips.

‘’Wherever you send me, I am going to sleep today,’’ she added.

‘’All of us,’’ mocked Rithwik.

‘’ The final decision is yours Sara,’’ said Mihir dryly.

‘’I want to sleep with Amaira, if you guys don’t have a problem. She just fainted,’’ said Rithwik.

‘’I actually wanted to sleep with Sara, but alright,’’ said Amaira sadly.

‘’Is it? Then you sleep with her’. I’ll share the room with Vihaan,’’ replied Rithwik.

‘’Ok so it’s sorted, let’s sleep then, I am very tired physically and mentally,’’ said Sara.

Everyone went to their rooms and slept. Finally, everything was back to normal.

Yet, nothing was okay with Rithwik. He was upset because he could not sleep with Amaira and that she chose Sara over him. He was just not upset; he was hurt with what had happened. It was for the first time Amaira had chosen anyone over him after they had started dating each other.

‘’I think it’s my fault,’’ he murmured.

‘’I think I need to sort things up with Sara so that in future there are no fights related to her. I also don’t want Amaira to choose between her best friend and boyfriend all the time. I will definitely talk to Sara tomorrow…’’ he thought and drifted off

Chapter 20

Everyone met for the breakfast at around 8 am in the morning. Amaira ran towards Rithwik when she saw him coming and hugged him tightly. Vihaan came and greeted Sara who was busy on her mobile. “Huh! The real Sara is back, who reads books whenever she gets time,” chuckled Vihaan. “Pretty much! I missed this, but there was too much drama going on back then,” countered Sara. By the time Viren, Ronak and Mihir came with their backpacks. “Hello three musketeers,'' Sara said smiling ear to ear. “Someone’s mood is very happy today,” said Rithwik, startling everyone on the table. Amaira nudged him and told him to stop pulling Sara’s leg. Sara rolled her eyes on that comment. “Ok now the real Sara is back!” said Ronak giggling. Everyone started smiling by then. “Ok jokes apart guys, Sara I want to talk to you for a second.” Rithwik said acting like a total gentleman. Everyone was taken aback with what just Rithwik told.

Sara sat on the table with her hands ing her chin thinking what is up with Rithwik, being so polite and all. “Sara?” he called again. “Oh yeah sure, let’s talk” and she got up and they walked outside. “Tell me,” she said, turning towards him when they sat on the couch which was kept in the lobby. “Dude can we be friends for Amaira’s sake? I mean she is your best friend and no one can separate you guys and I don’t want to lose her by any chance. So; let’s be friends so it’s easy for her to deal with us. What say?” asked Rithwik with a serious expression. Sara thought for a while before speaking. “Yeah! sure” she finally agreed and gave him a side hug. Everyone on the table was curious about what Sara and Rithwik were talking about and staring at them from where they were sitting. It was a total shock for all of them when Sara hugged Rithwik.

After that they ed everyone on the table and completed their breakfast. “Campers, we are leaving for Viratkhai in 15 minutes, be ready!” shouted the camp instructor. Everybody collected their luggage and boarded the bus. This time everyone was sitting on the front seat for Sara. She felt very happy with this

gesture. The fun and chit-chat were on when Amaira asked Rithwik and Sara, “What were you guys talking?”. Everyone’s eyes were glued on Sara and Rithwik. “None of your business,” Rithwik chuckled. “Planning plotting huh,” Amaira said in frustration. “No not at all Amaira baby,” Sara said playfully. “It’s a fucking 5-hour journey, I am sleeping” she added. “Dude don’t be a spoilt sport, kitna soyegi?” said Vihaan. “Oh, come on yaar! I need sleep,” she simply replied. “Ok fine, you sleep, everyone else if you want to play something, we will play otherwise we will also sleep,” said Rithwik.

Viren asked Sara about her conversation with Rithwik. “Nothing much, he was like let’s be friends for Amaira's sake. I was like okay fine, I was using the forgive and forget rule.” said Sara. “Okay this is good; you are actually learning,'' said Viren. “Yeah! Sara replied and slept. After a while Viren also slept. “Aww, they both look so cute when they are sleeping,” commented Amaira. “That’s true, see how peaceful Viren looks,” Ronak said. “Viren looks so happy when she is around,” Mihir added. “We are seeing his sensitive side for the very first time,” Ronak said. “He’s never truly been into girls?” asked Vihaan. “No, this is for the first time, girls are crazy about Viren, but he doesn’t talk to any of them,” Mihir replied. “Do any of you think Sara and Viren are in love with each other?” Vihaan inquired. “I don’t think this is love, but they are close to each other now, I feel that.” Amaira said. “Even I agree to it,'' Vihaan added.

“Everyone listen, we are going to reach Viratkhai in 10 minutes,” Priyank sir said. “First thing you guys have to do is finish your lunch. After that we have activities like Rappelling, Burma bridge, Commando net, Hiking and I have a surprise for tonight,” he added. Everyone’s eyes light up listening about the surprise. “Hey sleepyheads get up,” Ronak said. “Yes! Ronak 5 minutes” Sara said sleepily. Viren got up.

“She can sleep for hours?” Asked Mihir. “Only when she is at peace or else, she doesn’t sleep, she gets panic attacks,” said Amaira. Viren turned to her and said is it? Yes! but she doesn’t get them now until I know she replied. “Sara,” Viren

said, stroking her hair gently. “Hmm?” she said. “Do you still get panic attacks?” he asked calmly. “What?!” she said, sitting straight directly looking into Viren’s eyes. “No! I don’t get them anymore, I used to back then,” she added.” Ok fine,” he said, pulling her cheeks playfully.

“We have reached people,” Kinjal di shouted and everyone was ready to get down. Everyone got off the bus excitedly and went into the lobby of the hotel with their bags. They were allotted with the rooms in the next 10 minutes. They kept their luggage in their rooms and came down. Vihaan Rithwik and Amaira in one room and Ronak, Mihir, Sara and Viren in one.

Chapter 21

Once everyone was done with their lunch, they gathered near the bus to go hiking. After a drive of 20 minutes, they reached the location. It was a small hike. Rithwik and Amaira were walking hand in hand. Sara didn’t lose a chance to tease Rithwik when Amaira used to lose her balance saying you don’t take care of her. Once doing this, she was walking a rocky patch and she fell down. She bruised her knees badly. Priyank sir bought first aid for her. Mihir helped sir in that. Sir took Dettol and was cleaning her wound. She shouted as it was hurting so badly. She grasped Viren’s arm tightly. Amaira was also by her side. After the cleaning was done, sir put some ointment on it and after that they resumed the trek.

“Is it hurting that bad?” Viren asked. Sara just made a cranky face and he understood what she was feeling. He took her back pack from her and started waking besides her hand in hand and motivated her to complete her trek. Finally! Their hike was done and they were back in the bus. They returned to the hotel for the snacks. After the snacks, it was time to reveal the surprise. Sara was sitting silently as her wound hurt badly. “So; the surprise is bonfire and staying in tents tonight,” the camp instructor said. Everyone cheered in delight. They liked the surprise very much.

“So; go into your rooms, pack your bags and come down in an hour. Then we will leave for the location. We will have dinner near the campsite only.”

Viren helped Sara to get up and escorted her to the room. “Viren, the wound is hurting,” Sara said almost crying. “How will I remove these jeans?” she added. She was squealing in pain. “Wait, I’ll call Amaira for your help,” he replied. He called Amaira and she came within 5 minutes. All the boys in the room went to the other room with their clothes and left Amaira and Sara alone, for Sara to

change. Amaira helped Sara change. She wore shorts and a black t-shirt. She now felt a bit comfortable.

After that, Amaira packed Sara’s bag till then all the boys were back. Sara was resting on the bed. Everyone teased her, that how is she going to bear the cold outside near the campsite. She was in panic thinking, that’s when Viren went to her and hugged her saying everything will be fine don’t worry. She hugged him tight and said thank you for being beside her. After that everyone went down with their backpacks and were ready to leave.

“Sara listen,” Priyank sir came and said. “How are you now?” he asked. “Not fine sir, because of the bruises the pain is travelling in the upper thigh region,” she said. “Oh!” he replied. “So; do you want to come back to the room tonight rather than staying at the campsite?” he asked. “Can we do that?” she asked delightedly. “Yes! We sure can;” he replied matching her excitement. “Guys listen, I can stay at the hotel tonight because of my injury, who will accompany me?” She asked. “I will!” Viren and Amaira said in unison. “Let’s do one thing, we all will come back to the hotel, the main thing is to stay together with Sara,” said Rithwik. “What do y’all say, as it is the last day?” Mihir added. “Sir can we do that?” asked Ronak. “You guys can surely do that,” he replied. “So; it’s done,” Viren declared cheerfully. Sara almost choked seeing this gesture. Amaira came and hugged her. After that everyone ed them and it turned into a group hug. Everybody boarded the bus leaving for the campsite. After 45 minutes they reached the location. It was very beautiful. The tents were put up perfectly in a line and the food counter was opposite to it. The bonfire was set in the middle. “Attention everyone.” said the camp instructor. Everyone gathered around him. “Guys you have to perform a skit of around 5 minutes. The groups will be the same as the one which was made for treasure hunt. You have 30 minutes to prepare.” Everyone took one corner and started planning about what they were going to perform.

“Can I you guys?” a boy in his mid20’s came and asked Sara. “Can you do this? she said and turned to Neha di who was calling her. “Take him with you

guys if you don’t have any problems,'' she said. Sara looked at everyone in the group who gave her a confirmation nod. She showed a thumbs up to Neha di and included the boy in their group. They decided the script and the characters of the skit. “Guys let’s do one thing, we have five minutes so let’s perform this skit three times,” the new boy said. “Are you insane?” Rithwik bluttered without thinking. Sara signalled Rithwik to stop and asked the new boy his name. “My name is Ron,” he said. “Okay Ron, continue your idea.” Viren said.

“First; we will do the skit normally, then we will do the whole thing in a way that we are crying and the third time we will do it in a way that we are laughing. So; it will be funny, what do you guys think?” he asked everyone. “Not a bad idea,” Mihir said. “Yes!” Amaira added and everyone gave a nod. “So; let’s practice,” Sara said.

Their number was third. They went and took their position. Ron introduced the skit and went with his co-characters. They performed the skit normally. Then Ron came and addressed the audience saying, “Now we will perform the whole skit in a way that we are crying”. Listening to this the audience got more conscious. They performed the skit second time. Again! Ron addressed saying “Now we will perform in a way that we are laughing”. They performed the skit that way and everyone was laughing holding their bellies. After completing, they said Thank you and left the place for others to perform. Everyone really enjoyed their performance. They were the clear winners. Everyone thanked Ron for his brilliant idea. He was overwhelmed seeing so much love. After that everyone proceeded for their dinner. They took their plates and sat around the bonfire. Viren gave a chair for Sara to sit and bought her a bowl of steaming maggi. She thanked him and everyone enjoyed the maggi and soup in front of the bonfire.

After dinner they played fire and the mountain and many other games. After that everyone retired to their allotted camps and Sara and group returned to the hotel with the camp instructor and 2 volunteers. “Tonight! We are not sleeping, it’s the last day and we are going to enjoy it.” declared Rithwik. Everyone said yes and gathered in Sara’s room after wearing their night dresses.

Chapter 22

“So, what are we going to play?'' asked Mihir. “Let’s do one thing rather than playing let’s tell one good quality about everyone,” said Ronak. “In what sense?” asked Amaira. “You have to say one good quality about everyone sitting in the room, it can be anything,'' said Ronak. “Too boring Ronak,” Sara said. “Let’s reveal one embarrassing or funny thing from our childhood,” she added. “Yeah! This is a bit cool,” Rithwik said. “Starting with you Rithwik, say one incident that you feel ashamed of or a funny thing from your childhood.

RITHWIK: “The most embarrassing moment was when I was in 2nd standard. In English paper there was match the following section. Back then I used to consider that fishes fly and snake swims. I mean snake swims but fishes don’t fly he said shrugging.”

“Seriously you used to think that?” Amaira asked laughingly. Everyone literally laughed at Rithwik considering this was very lame of him to think in this way. “Ok, now who’s going to go next?” asked Mihir. “Meee” said Viren.

VIREN: “I had learned to play football when I was 6 years old, I broke 3 glass windows in the neighbourhood and they had complained to my mom about the same thing. She had given them money to fix the windows and had scolded me so as to not repeat the same thing again. I agreed to her and the very next day I broke them again. That time my mom locked me in the washroom as punishment and took my football. She fixed their glasses again. I felt embarrassed about this when my neighbours told me about this some days back.” Viren said.

“Viren seriously, you were a brat in your childhood,'' said Mihir. “Yeah! He was one” added Ronak.” Do you that boy who pushed you unknowingly in recess in school back then?” Ronak asked. “The one whom I punched directly on his face breaking his two teeth? That one?” asked Viren laughing hard. “Yes ofcourse. Even our class teacher laughed at the boy because this mahashaye told ma’am that it was not my fault, he pushed me first.” “Oh my God, this is interesting, then what happened?” Amaira asked. “Nothing, everyone laughed at the incident except the person who got punched on his face,” said Viren. “Aww, that boy” Sara said out of sympathy and everyone started laughing again. “Okay, okay now my turn” said Amaira. “No, let me speak first,'' said Vihaan. “Areee guys don’t fight, both of you will get a chance,'' said Rithwik. “Okay you go first,'' said Vihaan to Amaira.

AMAIRA: “The most-funny moment is when I broke Sara’s little finger,'' said Amaira. “What?” Viren almost gasped. Ronak and Mihir also had a question mark look on their face. Sara rolled her eyes to Amaira. “Yeah! We were learning to play volley ball. We had a new coach assigned that day. Sir was taking our practice in the semicircle. We were standing beside each other. Sara played my 3-4 shots back to back, so I got pissed off and went to hit her. We were fighting like cats and dogs. People tried to separate us but they could not and I broke Sara’s little finger.” Amaira said, hiding her face.

“Seriously?” Viren asked Sara and she simply showed the finger Amaira had once broken. Viren could not control his laughter and started laughing on Sara’s face. She punched him hard on his shoulder. He squealed in pain, apologizing to Sara. “Okay it’s my turn now,” said Vihaan.

VIHAAN: Once I was travelling with my mom and dad to some place I don’t on a bike. I was 5-6 years old. There was a railway crossing. So, we all got down from the bike. Dad went to buy coconut water from the person who was selling it nearby. I was like why do I need to stand and told my mom that I am sitting. Before she could ask where, I sat on the silencer of the bike.”

Everyone started laughing before he could complete the story. They imagined Vihaan sitting on the hot silencer and laughed out hard. Tears were brimming from Sara’s and Mihir’s eyes because of the laughter. “Then what happened?” asked Sara. “I was burned from my bums to the back-thigh region and behind the knees. Upar se I had worn shorts. So; you guys can imagine” he added. “Then mom and dad took me immediately to the hospital. I had third degree burns,” he said sadly. “Okay, okay now me!” said Ronak excitedly.

RONAK: “I had gone to a place where hundreds of mattresses were kept on one another. It took hours for people to keep them that way. I somehow managed to reach up there. I was sitting with my brother up there. We both started fighting up there. We lost our balance and directly fell on the ground with the mattress. People scolded us because they had you know made efforts to keep them that way. Their efforts were wasted. My brother could not breath because he was entangled between some mattresses.” “This is so interesting,” Sara remarked. “Are you insane?'' Viren asked her. “What’s insane in that?” she asked pouting. “Dude it’s damn dangerous,” Ronak said thinking of the incident. “You were one Khatro ke Khiladi back then,” said Amaira. “But why did you guys fight?” asked Rithwik. “Because we were calculating the time we took to reach on the top. I was like I took less time and my brother was like he took so we started fighting there.” Ronak said shrugging his shoulders. “Amazing huh,” Sara said.

“Dude what’s wrong with you, you are acting weird. First you said it's interesting, now you are saying it’s amazing. You got injured on your knees or brain?” asked Vihaan. “She got hurt on the knees but the effect is on the brain,'' said Ronak. Sara rolled her eyes to both of them and said “Everything is fine, it’s just that my knees are locked up. I need to bend them and wait.” She tried to bend her right knee but squealed in pain. “It’s hurting,'' she said. “Wait I’ll help you,” said Rithwik. “Do it slowly or I’ll kick your ass,'' said Sara. “Haha!” said Rithwik and bent her first knee. She almost shouted in pain. “It hurts badly, do it slowly Rithwik,” she pleaded. “I am extremely sorry,” he replied. “Now it’s my turn!” said Mihir.

MIHIR: “So, I wanted a bicycle back then. I requested my mom and dad. They told me not now after a while. Some financial issues: I waited for 2 days and then said I want the cycle today itself or else I won’t eat food and don’t go to play. I was on my words for like half a day. Then I started playing with the match box in the dining room. There was a window nearby which had a curtain. So, when I was playing, by-mistake the curtain caught fire. I panicked and started to shout. Mom saw it and threw water on it. Luckily nothing big happened. Then my parents decided to bring a cycle seeing my nonsense as they were tensed and gave in. The very next day a brand-new cycle came. I started driving it with my friends from the society. I was driving it at full speed and a bike was coming from the opposite direction. I crashed in it and got stitches on my chin and my right hand was fractured. Dad did not allow me to drive my bicycle until I was fully cured.”

Everybody gave Mihir a sympathetic look. “Now it’s my turn,” Sara said. Everyone turned towards her in excitement to listen to what she had to offer.

SARA: “I don’t much from my childhood but I once I had hit my friend with a stone. She had gotten hurt just above the left eye. Luckily her eye was saved from severe damage. Mom had shouted at me for this and more than me she had shouted at dad for telling me koi pareshan kare toh marke aane ka darne ka nahi aisa.”

“Ya, I that girl was our neighbour and she had cried a lot. But the moment Sara apologized to her, she started smiling and started playing with her the very next moment,” said Amaira. “Yes, she was a gem.” “Where is she now?” asked Mihir. “She stays in Halol now near Vadodara,'' said Sara. “Oh!” replied Mihir. “Let’s sleep guys, it’s 4:20 now. We have some activities before leaving tomorrow. We have an 8 o'clock train tomorrow?” asked Sara. “But we have to leave around 3pm so that we reach the station on time,” said Rithwik. “What activities do we have tomorrow?” asked Amaira. “We just have commando net, rappelling and Burma bridge tomorrow,” said Mihir. “You

cannot do Commando bridge Sara,'' said Viren. “We will see about that tomorrow,” she said and curled up in bed.

“All of them are sleeping here?” Asked Viren. “Yes,” Rithwik said. “Okay so 4 people on the bed, one on the couch and the other two on the mattress on the floor. I am sleeping on the bed,” Sara said. “You four sleep on the bed only, the way you are sleeping,'' said Vihaan. “Just Viren and Rithwik be careful, don’t fall because of the girls,'' said Ronak. “Huh! They are not kids Ronak,” Sara mocked. “I am joking bro,'' he said in return. “I’ll settle on the couch,'' said Vihaan. After sometime everyone slept.

Chapter 23

The next day, everyone got ready and went for breakfast. The other people had not returned from the campsite. They greeted Priyank sir down stairs and had breakfast with him. Meanwhile, other people returned to the hotel. They had their breakfast and went upstairs to get ready. Once everyone was ready, they boarded the bus and went to the place where the activities were held. Sara could not do commando net because of her injury. Once everyone was done, they returned to the hotel as they had to leave for the railway station. Everyone had their lunch and then went to their respective rooms to pack their bags. Viren helped Sara to pack. Ronak and Mihir completed their packing as early as possible so that they could give Sara and Viren some time alone.

“Sara, I am going to miss you. I can’t believe I am seriously saying this. I mean you and Amaira are the only girls I have talked to in my life. I used to stay away from girls because of their issues. But with you I was always there to solve them, I don’t know why.” Sara was in shock listening to this. She got up from the bed and hugged Viren tightly. “Thanks, Viren, for being with me the whole time during the mess and taking care of me. Thanks for making me understand and accept my flaws and to make me realize how beautiful I am as a person. And most importantly, thank you for listening to me and my crap very patiently,” Sara said. ‘That was not crap though, that was interesting,” Viren chuckled. “Okay okay, enough of thanks, now let’s go down or we are going to be late,'' he said, pulling out from the hug and kissing Sara on her cheeks. They came down with their luggage and sat in the lobby with their friends. “I truly enjoyed the trip,'' Mihir said. “Yeah! even me,” Ronak added. “This trip was truly worth it, thanks to Sara,'' said Mihir. “Why me?” she asked surprisingly. “You and your tantrums kept us entertained and seeing Viren cherishing them was something new to us. We enjoyed seeing this side of Viren,” said Mihir. “Oh! come on guys, stop pulling my leg,” begged Viren. “You are most welcome Mihir,” Sara said. “Okay guys, let’s board the bus,'' said the camp instructor. “Hope everyone enjoyed the trip, we loved having you here,” he added.

“Guys let’s sleep on the bus and then in the train we won’t sleep, what do you say?” Vihaan asked. “Perfect!” Sara said and everyone nodded in agreement. Everyone settled in their places and drifted off to sleep. After a 4-hour journey they reached the railway station. They took their luggage and got off the bus. After that they went to the platform from where their train was.

Neha di allotted them the seat numbers. All the 7 people were allotted the same compartment on their personal request. They entered the train and then kept their luggage in proper places. After a while food was served and everyone had their dinner. “What are we going to do?” asked Mihir. “Play games the whole night,” replied Sara. “Let’s start with never have I ever,” said Rithwik. “Okay fine,” Ronak said and handed everyone their favorite Cold drinks.

“Let’s start with me,'' Viren said.

“Never have I ever kissed anyone.” Everyone drank a sip from their drink except Viren.

“Okay next, never have I ever hooked up with anyone,'' said Rithwik. None of them drank.

“Never have I ever…..” and the game continued. They played different different games all night. Once Neha di came and asked them to keep their voice down. The night ed and it was a new morning. Mumbai railway station was an hour away. “Sara, are your parents going to come to take you?” asked Rithwik. “Yeah! They are, so will you guys be coming with us?” she asked. “Take our bags, we will come by train,'' Rithwik said. “Fine,” said Sara. “What about you guys?” Sara asked Viren, Ronak and Mihir. “Viren’s parents are coming to pick us,” said Mihir. They finally reached Mumbai terminus. It was time for goodbyes. Sara hugged Viren tightly and said “I’ll miss you a lot.” A tear

travelled from Sara’s eyes to her cheeks. Viren wiped her cheeks, “I’ll miss you too,” he said.

They got off the train and Sara ran towards her mom. “Careful Sara, you are already injured,'' said Viren from behind. Viren’s parents spotted him and came towards him. Sara and Viren introduced their parents with each other and their friends. They greeted each other. “How was your trip?” Viren’s mom asked. “It was awesome mom,” Viren said. “Good,” she replied. “Be in touch guys,” Viren said. “Of-course buddy!” Sara said. “Let’s go guys we are getting late,” Sara’s dad said. “Yeah sure!” Amaira replied. They hugged their friends and bid them.

“Meet soon,” Viren said his signature statement. Sara blushed and then she replied “Surely.” They exited the railway station. Sara and Viren felt sad and missed each other, the moment they parted. Viren texted Sara,

Viren: Hey buddy all fine? Not missing me so much na ?

Sara: Yeah! Not that much, what’s your seen?

Viren: Of-course I am missing you. You were around me 24/7, what did you expect?

Sara: Same here. Meet soon V.

Viren: Meet soon S.

Chapter 24

One week later,

Phone ringing……..

“Hey Sara, Mihir here.”

“Hi Mihir,” Sara replied in a sleepish tone.

“Sleeping?” he asked.

“Yeah! I was, but say what happened, why have you called so late?” asked Sara.

“Bro, it’s just 12:00 am …. Technically you don’t sleep at this time,” he said.

“Huh! Yes I don’t,” she sighs.

“Ok listen, it’s Viren’s birthday day after tomorrow and I think you definitely don’t know anything about this, am I sure?” He asks.

“Yeah! We never talked about birthdays. Thanks for telling me about it Mihir. You and Ronak are real saviors,” she said in a thankful tone.

“Can you come tomorrow? To surprise him at midnight, because we are planning the party according to your schedule. We want to see his face when he sees you as his best birthday surprise. You getting my point Sara?” he asked.

“Yep, yep I am getting your point. Don’t worry I will be there with my friends. Where do we have to come? I mean where is the party?” Sara asked.

“Party is at Viren’s hotel which is near Marine Drive. So; you guys reach the location as early as possible. We will give you guys one room to get ready and then at exactly 12:00 you come down and surprise him,” Mihir said.

“Okay fine, I will text you the timings and everything, when are we reaching and all. Anything you want me to do?” Sara asked.

“No! You just come, that is enough for us. By the way, you and Amaira are the only girls in the party, don’t forget that Sara,” Mihir said.

“Huh! How can I forget that Mihir? Chalo see you tomorrow, I’ll talk to my friends and send you the details,” Sara said and hung up.

Sara slept after the call and woke up next morning. Basically, she could not sleep-in the excitement of Viren’s birthday. She called everyone in the morning

and they decided to meet at Sara’s place. Until they arrived, she selected the dress she was going to wear for the party. She selected tight black jeans and a crop top. Everyone reached Sara's place in a while. “Okay guys, at what time do we have to reach there?” Rithwik asked. “Maybe 10pm so then we will have time to get ready for the party,” Amaira said. “Yeah! Fine by me,” added Vihaan. “What is the location Sara?” Amaira asked. “Marine Drive, Viren’s dad owns a hotel there, so the party is organized there,” Sara said.

“Oh-ho we didn’t know that,” Vihaan said. We did not know his birthday either,” Sara mocked. “Thanks to Ronak and Mihir, they did not forget us,” said Amaira. “Yeah! True, actually they want to surprise Viren with our presence, the only two girls of his life,” Sara said. “Did you have a chat with Viren? asked Rithwik to Sara. “Yeah! but nothing serious. I wonder if he could have told me about his birthday,” said Sara. “How will he say it directly?” said Vihaan.

“Okay, okay guys, what are we giving him?” asked Rithwik. “How about a football? He loves it plus he doesn’t have a good one now as far as I know,” Sara said. “Okay done then it’s a football,” Amaira said. “Let’s disperse guys and meet at the railway station, this evening,” said Rithwik. “Sara, coordinate everything with Mihir,'' he added. “Sure, I will and let’s order his gift, he will receive it maybe the day after tomorrow, but that’s the only option left so,” she said shrugging. “Sure, I’ll do it,'' said Vihaan.

In the evening they boarded the train and reached Marine Drive around 10:30 pm. Mihir and Ronak had come to the station to pick them up. They greeted each other and then proceeded to the hotel. Sara was feeling a bit nervous, but she didn’t show it on her face. They were sitting in the car and Sara’s mobile rang. “Guys it’s Viren, what should I do?” asked Sara. Reject the call and text him was everyone’s opinion. She did exactly that.

Sara: Hi V, In the middle of something, can’t take your call now.

Viren: Oh! ok fine, sorry to disturb.

Sara: Anything serious?

Viren: No, no absolutely not. Finish your work and then call.

Sara: Sure, bye!

Viren: Bye S.

“Nothing guys, he just called casually,” Sara declared. “Mihir, the party is also a surprise for Viren?” Amaira asked. “Kind of, I think he knows about the party, some staff told him that. But it’s common, we plan party’s only, so nothing new. The real surprise is Sara,” he said. “What?! me?” Sara gasped. “Yes! We did not even bring a gift for him this year, you are the gift, the surprise we are giving him,” said Ronak. “This is so not fair guys,” Sara said. “Everything is fair in love and war Sara,” Mihir chuckled. Sara rolled her eyes on that statement and got out of the car as they reached the hotel. Mihir handed them the 2 keys, “Get ready fast and come down to the banquet hall when I call you,” he said.

Sara and Amaira occupied one room. Rithwik and Vihaan, the other one. They got ready on time.” Sara are you fine?” Amaira asked, seeing her face. “Yeah! What happened to me?” she countered. “Just see your face, you seem nervous,” Amaira said. “Bullshit I am all fine,” she replied and her phone rang.

“Hello Mihir,” she said.

“Sara, come down with your friends, we are in the hall,” said Mihir. “Come to the banquet and surprise Viren. We will make sure his back is towards the door,” he added.

“Sure, we are coming,'' she said and hung up.

“Let’s go guys,” she said.

Chapter 25

“SURPRISEEEEEEE!!!!” Everyone shouted in unison. But before Viren could see, Sara covered his eyes from behind. “Who is it?” Viren asked and started feeling Sara’s hands. “Guess!” everyone shouted and cheered. After feeling Sara’s hands, he immediately said “It’s none other than Sara.” She removed her hands from his eyes and hugged him tight wishing him Happy Birthday. “Thank you so much,'' he said, putting one arm around Sara’s shoulder. Everyone wished Viren. He thanked everyone. One of Viren’s friends asked him, who is Sara and Amaira and when he started talking to girls. Viren explained the whole situation. Everyone cheered listening to Viren’s explanation.

After all this Viren cut the cake kept in front of him and fed it to Sara first. Then he thanked everyone for such a cute surprise pulling Sara’s cheeks. She blushed when Viren said this. After that, they danced. Vihaan and Rithwik talked to Viren’s friends. Everyone was dancing and enjoying the party. Viren pulled Sara aside from the crowd. “Let’s go out from here,” he said in Sara’s ears. “Are you serious? they will search for you Viren,” she replied. “You don’t worry about that,” he said and they exited the hall. They went to the parking lot and sat in Viren’s car.

“Where do you want to go Sara?” Viren asked. “Let’s go and sit facing the sea if you don’t have any plans.” she said.

Viren drove his car for somewhat 10 minutes and then parked it. They got out of the car and went to the sidewalk. They stood there in silence for some time. It was 2:30 at night. One hawker was selling coffee there. “Sara do you want to drink coffee?” Viren asked. She simply nodded. Viren bought 2 cups of coffee and handed one to Sara. They drank the coffee in silence. “So, you loved me being here?” Sara asked, breaking the silence. “Of-course!” he said. “If you

wanted me to come so badly then why did you not tell me it’s your birthday?” She countered. “I don’t know why I did not tell you, but I had a gut feeling that you will be here plus I trusted Ronak and Mihir,” he simply said. “True, they were more excited than me to see your face. They were like for the first time we are not gifting him anything, because the smile he will have when he will see you is more priceless than anything we gift him,” she said. “That’s true,'' he said pulling Sara close to him. “You are the best gift I have got today,'' he added with a smile. “Is that so?” Sara said nudging him with her elbow and both of them started laughing.

“V listen, let’s click a picture, I want to post it on Insta for your birthday.” “Sure,” he said and clicked some pictures. After posting the picture, Sara kept her mobile and they stared at the sea waves for a while in silence leaning against the car. “Viren, you know what?” Sara said, breaking the silence. “What?” He replied, still staring at the waves. “I think I have got my companion,” she said in a low voice. “I think so too. From the very first day I started talking to you,” he replied looking at her. Sara had tears in her eyes. Viren wiped her face. “Ah-ha! Very forward thinking.” Sara told him. “Don’t try to pull my leg okay. I did not say anything because you were too messed up and I didn’t want to complicate things more,” he chuckled. “Sure, I believe you, so kind of you, Mr. Viren,” she said, making a puppy face. “You know you are the first girl whose tantrums don’t feel like tantrums to me, I love the way you show attitude to people, and then help everyone,” he said. “Aww, that’s so cute. Thank you, for keeping me composed during the whole trip. I know there was a lot of chaos around me, but you still were beside me in my thick and thin and most importantly you solved all the issues with my friends.” “Thanks to you idiot, if you wouldn't have been standing near the door that night, I would never have talked to a girl in this life.” he said and both started laughing.

“From Strangers to Friends to Best-Friends to Companions, we came so far in such a short time and we didn’t even realize it,” Sara said.

“We’ve got a long way to go Miss Seghal,” Viren said and pulled her into a tight

hug. “Yes, yes we do.” Sara said in a low voice.