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Scene 1: Getting Ready
The dorm slowly came alive again as everyone prepared for the evening. Haniya stood in front of her mirror, replaying Aarav's words from the morning.
"Don't cry… it hurts me."
Why did it feel so genuine? Why did it feel like the Aarav she once knew was still there, hidden under layers of distance?
She shook her head and pushed the thought aside.
Slipping into a soft pastel dress—simple, elegant, perfect for the event—she let her hair fall naturally over her shoulders. Her makeup was light, subtle, exactly how she liked it.
Meanwhile, Aarav stood in his room, buttoning his shirt slowly. He tried to focus on the party, on the schedule, on anything—but his mind kept drifting back to Haniya's trembling voice.
"It hurts."
Being near her made the past collide with the present—and he wasn't ready.
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Scene 2: Hallway Tension
Haniya stepped out of her room, and Aarav opened his door at the same time.
They froze for a brief second.
Aarav's breath caught faintly. She looked beautiful—naturally, effortlessly.
Haniya looked away quickly, unable to hold his gaze.
Kashvi arrived next.
"Oh my God, Haniya! You look so pretty!"
Vivaan whistled dramatically.
"Aarav bro, we're in trouble. Half the party will stare at her."
Harsh smirked.
"Forget the party, even our captain is staring."
Aarav glared at them.
"Enough. Let's go."
Haniya's cheeks warmed slightly, though she stayed silent.
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Scene 3: Leaving the Dorm
They walked downstairs as a group. Aarav led, but his steps slowed whenever Haniya fell behind.
He didn't reach out, didn't speak—but he constantly checked to make sure she didn't trip.
Kashvi noticed it all and smirked mischievously.
The team bus arrived. Aarav let everyone board first.
When Haniya stepped forward, her heel caught the last step. She wobbled.
Aarav immediately grabbed her arm, steadying her. Their eyes met for a second before he released her.
"Careful," he said quietly.
Haniya swallowed.
"Sorry…"
"You're fine," he replied.
They sat down. Haniya between Kashvi and the window; Aarav beside Harsh.
But every time she glanced at him, he caught her reflection in the window glass.
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Scene 4: On the Bus
The bus rumbled forward.
Kashvi leaned close to Haniya.
"Are you nervous?"
"No… just thinking," Haniya replied quietly, her thoughts tangled between past and present.
Vivaan turned to Aarav.
"Bro, you're too quiet."
Harsh smirked, leaning back.
"Are you still thinking about Anamika? Am I right?"
Aarav's jaw tightened. He didn't answer.
Vivaan nudged him and added lightly,
"Don't worry, bro. We will meet her today. She is coming too."
Haniya looked at Kashvi, curiosity and confusion in her eyes.
"Who is she?"
Kashvi shrugged casually.
"His crush."
Haniya's eyes widened. A jolt ran through her.
What am I doing? Is this right? she wondered.
Her chest tightened at the thought of her feelings and the dangerous pull she felt toward Aarav.
Aarav, noticing her reaction, quickly looked away, avoiding the topic entirely.
Harsh leaned back smugly.
"See? I told you. He still gets quiet whenever we mention her."
Aarav finally exhaled, annoyed.
"Harsh, drop it."
Kashvi leaned closer to Haniya and whispered,
"It's old… very old. Don't overthink it."
But Haniya couldn't stop thinking. She felt the tension lingering in the air. Aarav avoided her eyes, yet she couldn't shake the question:
Am I doing the right thing?
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