The morning sunlight cascaded through the expansive windows of Bangalore Business School, casting a golden glow across the marble floors and bustling corridors. Kartikey Shekhawat stood out amidst the crowd - tall, confident, with an effortless charm that seemed to magnetize people around him.
At 23, he embodied the quintessential MBA student: sharp-minded, ambitious, and perpetually networked. His crisp white shirt and tailored navy blazer reflected both his professional aspirations and personal style. As he navigated the crowded hallway, several peers greeted him, testament to his popularity.
"Kartikey!" called out Rahul, his closest friend, jogging to catch up. "Did you hear about today's orientation event?"
Kartikey adjusted his backpack, a playful smile dancing across his lips. "Another college showcase? They happen every semester."
Little did he know that this particular event would change everything.
Meanwhile, in a quiet corner of the campus library, Anshika Sharma sat hunched over her textbooks. Unlike Kartikey's outgoing personality, she radiated a more introspective energy. Her dark hair was neatly tied back, wire-rimmed glasses perched on her nose, reflecting an intense concentration.
Anshika was brilliant - consistently topping academic rankings - but her achievements were overshadowed by a deep-rooted insecurity. Years of comparing herself to others and feeling inadequate had created an invisible armor around her emotions.
The orientation event that afternoon was mandatory for all new students. The college auditorium buzzed with anticipation, students chattering excitedly about performances. Anshika, participating in the dance segment, despite her insecurities dance was her escape, the only thing she took confidence in. Dance was her secret sanctuary, a realm where she could express emotions she typically suppressed.
When her name was announced, Anshika walked onto the stage with measured steps. Her traditional anarkali, in soft lavender, contrasted with her nervous demeanor. As she positioned herself, the auditorium fell silent.
And then she began to dance.
Anshika moved gracefully across the stage, her ghungroos echoing with each precise step, as the rhythm of the song filled the air. Her expressions conveyed stories of love, longing, and devotion, captivating everyone in the audience. Kartikey, seated in the middle row, couldn't take his eyes off her. There was something mesmerizing about the way her movements flowed effortlessly, as though she was pouring her soul into the performance. Her passion and artistry intrigued him, sparking a desire to know the girl behind the enchanting dance
Kartikey, seated midway through the audience, found himself completely transfixed. This wasn't just a performance; it was a vulnerable revelation of someone's inner world.
As the last note of the song faded with the echo of her ghungroos there was a momentary silence before thunderous applause erupted. Anshika, bowed down a little joining her hands before exiting the stage.
Unknown to her, Kartikey's gaze followed her every movement. Something about her intrigued him - her dance had revealed a complexity that went far beyond her seemingly reserved exterior.
Later that evening, during the post-event mingling, Kartikey found himself inexplicably drawn to the idea of meeting Anshika. He scanned the crowd, finally spotting her near the refreshment counter, looking uncomfortable and slightly out of place.
Taking a deep breath, he decided this was his moment. With the confidence that had always been his trademark, Kartikey smoothed his blazer and started walking towards her, his heart unexpectedly racing with an anticipation he couldn't quite understand.
As he approached, Anshika looked up, their eyes meeting for the first time - a moment filled with possibilities, unaware of the transformative journey that awaited them.
The stage was set. Their story was about to begin.
🌻
As Kartikey closed the gap between them, the sound of chatter and laughter around the refreshment counter seemed to fade into the background. Anshika, holding a glass of water, shifted her weight uneasily, her eyes darting to the bustling crowd, as if searching for an escape route.
"Anshika, right?" Kartikey's voice broke through her thoughts, smooth yet warm, as if he'd been saying her name for years.
Startled, she glanced up, her wide eyes meeting his. For a fleeting moment, she hesitated. How did he know her name? And why was someone like him talking to her?
"Yes," she replied softly, her voice barely audible over the noise, but her gaze never leaving his.
"I'm Kartikey." He extended his hand, his trademark smile lighting up his face. "I saw your performance earlier. It was... breathtaking."
Her cheeks flushed at the unexpected compliment. She glanced at his outstretched hand, then back at his face, before awkwardly placing her hand in his for the briefest shake. His grip was firm but gentle, a stark contrast to the nervous flutter in her stomach.
"Thank you," she murmured, dropping her gaze as quickly as she'd raised it, her fingers fiddling with the edge of her dupatta.
He tilted his head, studying her. His voice low, as if the words were meant just for her. "It's rare to see someone pour so much emotion into their art."
Her heart raced. She wasn't used to being the center of attention, much less receiving praise from someone like him. "I just... like dancing," she managed, her voice laced with sincerity.
"I can tell." He leaned slightly closer, lowering his voice, "But you might want to work on hiding your nerves offstage. You're easier to spot in a crowd than you think."
Her lips parted in surprise, a soft gasp escaping before she could stop it. Was he teasing her? Before she could respond, his phone buzzed in his pocket, breaking the spell.
"Duty calls," he said, flashing an apologetic grin. "But it was nice meeting you, Anshika. I hope we run into each other again."
And just like that, he was gone, weaving seamlessly back into the crowd. Anshika stood rooted in place, her mind racing.
What had just happened?
For the first time in years, she felt a strange flicker of warmth, like the first rays of dawn breaking through the darkest night.
As Kartikey walked away, a strange feeling lingered in the air around him, one he couldn't quite place. His mind was still on Anshika-the way her nervousness had seeped into her gaze, how she'd shyly accepted his compliment, and the subtle tension that hung between them.
He found himself replaying their brief exchange over and over in his head. It was the smallest interaction, yet something about it felt different from the usual conversations he had with people. Most of his life had been spent in the company of confident individuals, peers who matched his energy, ambition, and sense of self-assurance. But Anshika was... quiet. Reserved. Almost hidden beneath layers he couldn't quite decipher.
Yet, there was an undeniable pull to her-a quiet intensity that had caught him off guard. Her performance, her dance, had shown him a side of her that contradicted the aloofness he'd assumed from her. In those few moments on stage, she had captivated him with a raw vulnerability that was almost tangible, and her every move seemed to communicate a story he wasn't sure he was ready to fully understand.
And then, that fleeting moment at the refreshment counter, when their eyes met for the first time... He had expected her to shrink back, maybe even give him a polite smile and turn away, but instead, she had met his gaze with a mix of surprise and hesitation. It wasn't like the usual exchange he had with people, especially not withgirls. There was something in the way she pulled back, something deeper in her that intrigued him, and he felt a strange urge to know more, to peel away the layers that shielded her from the world.
But he couldn't ignore the unease he felt in his chest. Why did he care so much? He had never been one to dwell on fleeting interactions. He was used to moving through life with certainty, with confidence. But with her, he felt a shift in the air, a tension that was hard to shake off.
Was it her mystery? Her quiet intelligence that seemed to hide just beneath the surface? Or was it something more-something that he couldn't quite understand?
Kartikey slowed his pace, his thoughts swirling, his fingers absentmindedly tapping his phone as if trying to distract himself from the unfamiliar emotions. He had been a part of enough moments in his life to recognize the rare ones, and this felt like one. He didn't know what it meant yet, but he had a feeling that meeting Anshika Sharma was going to be a turning point-one he couldn't ignore.
He glanced back over his shoulder, half-expecting to catch a glimpse of her, but she was gone, swallowed up by the crowd. A faint smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he turned back and continued down the hallway, his mind still with her.
🌻
Kartikey's days were always predictable. Football practice, classes, and hanging out with his friends filled most of his schedule. But ever since he'd noticed Anshika during the orientation for juniors, there was a shift he couldn't ignore. There was something about her-the way she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, her shy smile when she spoke to her friends, and the way she avoided making eye contact with anyone unfamiliar. Kartikey found himself wanting to unravel her mysteries.
"Bhai, tujhe kya ho gaya hai? Football pe bhi dhyan nahi hai," his best friend Rahul remarked one evening after practice. Kartikey's response was a distracted shrug. His mind wasn't on the game; it was replaying the moment when he'd caught a glimpse of Anshika reading under a tree earlier that day.
"Brother, what's wrong with you? You are not even focusing on football"
"Kuch nahi, bas thoda thaka hua hoon," Kartikey muttered, trying to brush it off. But Rahul wasn't convinced. "Sach bata, bhai. Baat kya hai?"
"Nothing I'm just tired"
"Be honest, what is it?"
Kartikey hesitated before finally admitting, "Woh junior hai na... Anshika. I keep noticing her everywhere."
"That junior, Anshika"
Rahul grinned. "Oho! Toh yeh baat hai. Lagta hai bhai ko pyaar ho gaya hai."
"So, brother is in love I think"
Kartikey rolled his eyes. "Bas zyada mat bol. It's not like that. I just... she's different, yaar. I want to know her better."
The next morning, Kartikey made up his mind. He'd find a way to talk to Anshika. Luckily, fate seemed to be on his side when he saw her in the college library, carefully balancing a stack of books in her arms. Without thinking, he walked up to her.
"Need help?" he asked, flashing his signature charming smile.
Anshika looked startled, almost dropping the books. "Uh... nahi. I'm fine. Thank you," she replied softly, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Are you sure? Books heavy hai," he persisted, reaching out to take the top few books from her stack. She hesitated but eventually let him.
"Books are heavy"
"Thanks," she mumbled, her cheeks turning a faint shade of pink.
As they walked toward the counter, Kartikey tried to strike up a conversation. "So, you like reading? Kya padh rahi ho?"
"What are you reading?"
Anshika glanced at the books in his hand and then at him. "It's... just some case studies for class."
"MBA students ki zindagi," Kartikey joked. "Main samajh sakta hoon. By the way, I'm Kartikey."
"Life of a MBA student, I understand."
"I know," she said, surprising him. "You're the football captain."
He raised an eyebrow. "Impressive. Toh tumhe yaad hai, Mujhe laga tum mujhe ignore karne ki puri koshish kar rahi ho."
"You remember, I thought you were trying to ignore me."
Anshika's eyes widened. "Nahi! Aisa kuch nahi hai. I'm just... not good at talking to people."
"It's nothing like that."
"Well, lucky for us, main baat karne mein expert hoon," Kartikey said with a playful grin. "Let's call it teamwork. Tum suno, main bolta hoon."
"I'm an expert at talking, you listen I will do the talking."
A small laugh escaped Anshika's lips despite her shyness. Kartikey felt an inexplicable sense of victory at having made her laugh.
Over the next few days, Kartikey's pursuit became more deliberate but still respectful of Anshika's boundaries. He'd casually sit near her during lunch breaks, always finding an excuse to ask about assignments or classes. Sometimes, he'd compliment her dancing skills, which made him mesmerized.
"So, you dance so well, college dance community join karne ke bare me socha?" he mentioned one afternoon when they crossed paths near the auditorium.
"Have you thought about joining college's dance community?"
Anshika blinked, "Abhi nahi, I should focus on studies abhi."
"Not yet."
"You can do both," he suggested.
Anshika sighed, thinking about the expectations she was carrying, and Kartikey felt his heartbeat quicken. Every little interaction made him more certain that there was something special about her. He didn't know if it was her simplicity, her genuine reactions, or the challenge of breaking through her shyness, but he was hooked.
One evening, as Anshika stood outside the college waiting for her ride, Kartikey approached her with two cups of chai.
"Chai piyogi?" he asked, offering her one.
"Tea?"
"Thank you, but mujhe jaana hai," she replied, though she didn't move away.
"I have to go."
"Bas ek sip," he insisted. "It's the best chai here at campus. Tumhara din ban jayega."
"Just one sip, it will make your day."
"Aur mera bhi." Kartikey thought and smiled faintly.
"And mine too."
Anshika hesitated but finally took the cup. They stood in comfortable silence, sipping their chai as the sun dipped below the horizon. For the first time, Anshika didn't feel overwhelmed by someone's attention. And Kartikey? He realized he'd never enjoyed a simple cup of tea so much in his life.
The next week, Kartikey made it a point to be around places he knew Anshika frequented-the library, the cafeteria, the tree she used to read under. But he never made it too obvious, ensuring he didn't invade her personal space. One afternoon, he found her sitting alone in the library, poring over a thick textbook. Taking a deep breath, he approached her table.
"Mind if I join?" he asked, pointing to the chair opposite her.
Anshika glanced up, startled, but nodded hesitantly. "Sure."
"Yeh subject tough lag raha hai?" he asked, leaning forward to peek at her notes.
"Tough subject?"
"Thoda," she admitted, her voice still soft. "Corporate finance is confusing."
"Bas itni si baat?" Kartikey quipped. "Main expert nahi hoon, but agar chahiye toh thodi help kar sakta hoon."
"I'm not an expert but I can help."
She looked skeptical. "Aapko time kaise milta hai? Football, classes... aur ab mujhe help karna?"
"How do you find time? Football, classes... and now helping me?"
"Priorities, Anshika," he said with a soft smile.
Her cheeks turned pink again, and Kartikey mentally patted himself on the back. Small victories like these made his efforts worthwhile.
A few days later, Kartikey found another chance to spend time with her. It was during a group activity in one of their shared seminars. The professor had paired seniors and juniors for a project, and to his delight, Kartikey was assigned to work with Anshika.
"Teamwork?" he asked with a knowing grin as they sat down together in the seminar hall.
Anshika nodded nervously. "Haan, umm... main presentation part kar sakti hoon agar aap..."
"Yes, umm... I can do presentation if you..."
"Relax," Kartikey interrupted gently. "Tum presentation kar lo, main content aur research karta hoon. hmm?"
"You do presentation, I will do content and research, hmm?"
She gave him a small nod, her hands fidgeting with her pen. Kartikey noticed her unease and decided to lighten the mood. "Vaise tumhe pata hai, main pehle group projects mein bilkul kaam nahi karta tha."
"You know, I never worked in group projects before."
"Kyun?" she asked, curiosity momentarily replacing her nervousness.
"Why?"
"Lazy tha," he admitted, laughing. "But ab sochta hoon ki kaam karna zaroori hai, warna tum jaise hardworking log pareshaan ho jaate hain."
"I was lazy, but now I think it's important, otherwise people like you get troubled."
Anshika's lips twitched into a smile. "Achha hai ki ab aap badal gaye."
"It's good you changed."
Kartikey chuckled at her remark. "Badalne ki baat nahi hai, Anshika. Bas kabhi kabhi kuch log milte hain jo kaam karne ka mann bana dete hain."
"It's not about changing, Anshika. Sometimes you find people that make you change."
Anshika's smile lingered for a moment longer than usual, and Kartikey felt a quiet satisfaction settle in his chest. Progress with her was slow but steady, and he was determined to take it one step at a time.
Over the next few days, the group project became their most consistent interaction. Kartikey made an effort to ensure that Anshika felt comfortable, frequently checking in on her ideas and opinions. He realized that her shyness wasn't just reserved for him-it was part of who she was.
One afternoon, while they were working on their project in the library, Kartikey noticed her struggling with a part of the presentation.
"Yeh slide thoda confusing lag raha hai?" he asked, pointing to the screen.
"This slide is confusing?"
Anshika nodded. "Haan, mujhe samajh nahi aa raha kaise simplify karoon."
"Yes, I can't figure out how to simplify it."
Kartikey scooted his chair closer to hers, their shoulders nearly brushing. "Dekho, hum is data ko visualize kar sakte hain. Graph banake explain karenge toh zyada clear hoga. What do you think?"
"We can visualize this data. We will explain it through graph."
Anshika blinked at him, processing his suggestion. "That's actually a good idea."
"Of course, good hi hoga," Kartikey said with a smirk. "Main hoon na."
"OfCourse its good, its me."
Anshika rolled her eyes, but the faint curve of her lips betrayed her amusement. "Confidence."
"Confidence nahi, Anshika. Yeh trust hai ki tumhari company mein hamesha sab accha hi hoga," he replied, his tone light but meaningful.
"It's not confidence, Anshika. It's trust that everything will be good in your company."
Anshika didn't respond, but the look she gave him carried a hint of gratitude-and something else Kartikey couldn't quite place yet.
Their project meetings slowly became more than just work. Kartikey would bring chai or snacks for her, claiming it was "fuel for productivity." Once, he even slipped a chocolate bar onto her notebook when she wasn't looking.
"Yeh kya hai?" she asked, holding up the chocolate.
"What is this?"
"Motivation," Kartikey replied casually, leaning back in his chair.
"Main bacchi nahi hoon," she said, though the faint pink on her cheeks told a different story.
"I'm not a kid."
"Tumhe dekh ke toh lagta hai," he teased, earning a rare laugh from her. It was moments like these that kept Kartikey coming back for more, eager to see the quiet girl smile a little brighter.
One day, after a particularly long meeting, Kartikey walked with Anshika toward the campus gates. The sun was setting, casting a warm golden glow over the buildings.
"Not far. Bas 20 minutes from here," she replied, keeping her gaze ahead.
"Achha, toh kaafi close ho," he said, glancing at her. "Kabhi lift chahiye ho toh bata dena."
"It's quite close, tell me if you ever need a ride."
Anshika looked at him, surprised. "Aap itne helpful kyun hain?"
"Why are you so helpful?"
"Bas aisehi," Kartikey said with a grin. "Aur waise bhi, tumse baat karna pasand hai."
"I am, and I anyways like talking to you."
Anshika didn't reply, but her silence wasn't awkward. Instead, it was thoughtful, as if she were trying to make sense of Kartikey's persistent yet gentle nature.
As they parted ways that evening, Kartikey watched her leave, a small smile playing on his lips. For the first time in a long while, he felt something new-a sense of purpose that extended beyond his usual ambitions.
He didn't know where this journey with Anshika would lead, but he was willing to take his time. For now, he was content to let their bond grow naturally, one small step at a time.
🌻
The sun was shining brightly as Anshika adjusted her bag strap, her footsteps quickening toward the cafeteria. It had been a week since she had last interacted with Kartikey, and yet, her mind kept replaying their conversations. His easy confidence and playful demeanor unnerved her, and she couldn't understand why someone like him-the football captain, popular among seniors and juniors was so intent on talking to her. She shook her head, dismissing the thought. She had come to Bangalore from Lucknow to focus on her MBA, not to get distracted.
Anshika met Priya and Meera in the college cafeteria. The bustling atmosphere and clatter of plates made it the perfect place to blend in and avoid too much attention.
"Anshika, yaar, aajkal Kartikey tumhare aage peeche bada ghoom raha hai?" Priya said as they settled into their seats.
"Anshika, Kartikey has been following you around a lot these days?"
"Haan," Meera added, her tone teasing. "Mujhe toh lagta hai woh tumhe pasand karta hai."
"Yes, I think he likes you."
"Aisa kuch nahi hai," Anshika said firmly, though her cheeks betrayed her with a faint blush. "Woh bas senior hain, or thode helpful hain"
"It's nothing like that, he's just a helpful senior."
"Uske alawa aur bhi kuch hai," Priya joked, nudging her playfully. "Tumhari shakal sab kuch bata rahi hai."
"There's something else, we can tell."
Anshika sighed. "Main yahan sirf apni padhai pe focus karne aayi hoon. Mujhe distractions nahi chahiye."
"I'm just here to focus on my studies, I don't want distractions."
"Distractions ke bina zindagi boring ho jaati hai," Meera said with a grin. "Aur waise bhi, kabhi-kabhi distractions achhe hote hain."
"Life is boring without distractions, also they're good sometimes."
Their conversation was interrupted when Kartikey walked past their table, his presence commanding attention even in a crowded room. He caught Anshika's eye and gave her a small nod, which she quickly pretended not to notice.
"Woh yahan aa raha hai," Priya whispered excitedly.
"He is coming here,"
"Kya?" Anshika asked, panic creeping into her voice.
"What?"
Before she could react, Kartikey was standing at their table. "Hi, Anshika," he said, his voice warm and casual. "Kal tumhare group ka presentation hai na? All set?"
"Tomorrow's your presentation na?"
"Haan... woh... preparation chal rahi hai," she stammered, avoiding his gaze.
"Yes...that...we are preparing,"
"Good," he said, his smile never wavering. "Agar kisi help ki zarurat ho toh bata dena."
"Tell me if you need any help."
Anshika nodded mutely, and Kartikey walked away, leaving her friends grinning like creeps.
"Tumse baat karne ke liye bahane dhund raha hai woh" Priya said, laughing. "Aur tum kehti ho kuch nahi hai."
"He's finding excuses to talk to you and you say it's nothing."
That evening, back at her flat, Ananya, her cousin and flat mate found Anshika sitting on the balcony with a book in her lap but not really reading.
Ananya was the same age as Anshika, growing up together, Ananya had always been Anshika's rock. They shared everything with each other and helped each other in every circumstance. They were each other' cousins, sisters, best friend and a safe place.
"Phir se lost hai?" Ananya asked, handing her a cup of black coffee.
"You're lost again?"
"Kuch nahi," Anshika said, shaking her head. "Bas Lucknow yaad aa raha hai. Wahan sab kuch kitna simple tha."
"Nothing, I'm just missing Lucknow. Everything was so simple there."
"Simple toh tha," Ananya agreed. "But yeh naya chapter bhi toh exciting hai, na? Naye log, naye experiences. Tujhe thoda open up karna chahiye. Kartikey itna bura nahi lagta mujhe."Of course, Anshika told her everything.
"It was simple, but this new chapter is also exciting na? New people, new experiences. You should open up a little, Kartikey doesn't seem so bad to me."
"Main uske baare mein nahi soch rahi thi," Anshika said defensively.
"I was not thinking about him."
"Achha? Toh fir kaun hai jo tuhje itna distract kar raha hai?" Ananya teased, earning a glare from her cousin.
"Oh, then who's distracting you so much?"
Ananya laughed and patted Anshika's shoulder. "Relax, yaar. Sab theek hoga. Tu bas apne insecurities ko peeche chhod. Kabhi-kabhi life ke surprises humein sabse zyada khushi dete hain."
"Everything will be fine just leave your insecurities behind. Sometimes suprises gives us a lot more happiness."
Anshika gave her a small smile, though her thoughts were still a whirlwind. She didn't know why Kartikey's attention unsettled her so much, but a part of her wondered if maybe-just maybe-Ananya was right.
Later that night, Anshika sat on the edge of her bed, her gaze fixed on the blank wall in front of her. Her thoughts were scattered, swirling with confusion and doubts. She had been thinking about the constant attention Kartikey had been giving her. The weight of it all felt too heavy to carry alone.
Ananya's voice pulled her from her thoughts as she came inside her room. "Anshika?"
Anshika quickly wiped her face, hoping Ananya hadn't noticed her teary eyes. "Aaja." she muttered, trying to sound normal.
"Come."
Ananya entered, her usual carefree smile replaced with a concerned look when she saw Anshika sitting in silence. "Kya hua?" she asked, sitting beside her on the bed.
"What happened?"
Anshika didn't hesitate. Ananya was one of the few people who truly understood her. They had grown up together, sharing everything from childhood secrets to the struggles of navigating family expectations. Ananya had always been the one who listened, the one who didn't judge.
"Sab theek hai na?" Ananya's voice was gentle, but her eyes were sharp, catching every tiny detail of Anshika's expression.
"Everything's alright na?"
Anshika sighed, her shoulders slumping in defeat as she rested her head on Ananya's shoulder. "I don't know, Ananya. I'm just... I'm confused. Kartikey is being so nice, and I don't know how to handle it. It's... it's making me feel so uncomfortable."
Ananya raised an eyebrow. "Kartikey?" she asked, her tone light but teasing. "Why does he make you uncomfortable? Aren't you the one who always says that you like when people treat you with respect?"
Anshika shifted uncomfortably. "I do, I really do. But it's just... the way he looks at me, the way he talks to me-it's like he's expecting something. I can't explain it. And I'm not ready for that."
Ananya nodded, her expression turning serious. "I get it. You're not used to this kind of attention, and you're not sure if you even want it. But listen, Anshika, you don't have to do anything you're not comfortable with. If he's genuinely being nice and respectful, it's okay. But if it feels like pressure, then you have every right to set boundaries."
Anshika leaned back against the headboard, rubbing her temples. "It's not just him, Ananya. It's... my family. The pressure they unknowingly put on me to be perfect, to follow the rules, to... to be the ideal daughter. They don't know about all this, and I don't want to disappoint them."
Ananya's eyes softened as she placed a hand on Anshika's. "I know, your family means the world to you, and their expectations are a heavy burden. But you have to remember, you're not just their daughter. You're your own person. And you deserve to be happy, not just to meet everyone else's standards."
Anshika wiped a tear from the corner of her eye, feeling a surge of emotion. "But what if they don't understand? What if they think I'm doing something wrong? They'll be so disappointed. They'll think I'm going against everything they've taught me."
Anshika continued, "Dadaji... he's always had this dream for me, ki main padhai karoon, job karoon or kuch bhi aisa na karoon jisse unka naam kharab ho. I lost my papa when I was just seven, and since then, he's been doing everything. Mere liye, unki expectations bohot zaroori hain. I don't want to disappoint him. But phir... I want to follow my own path. I want to do something different. I don't know how to balance it all."
"That I study well, that I get a job and don't do anything that can ruin his reputation. For me, his expectations are really important."
Ananya hugged her tightly, trying to comfort her. "Your family love you, Anshika. They just want what's best for you, even if sometimes they don't see it the way you do. But remember, you're not alone in this. Aur main hoon na, and I'll always be here to support you, chahe kuch bhi ho"
Anshika leaned into the embrace, her heart feeling a little lighter. "Thank you, Annu. I don't know what I'd do without you."
Ananya smiled, pulling away to look at her cousin. "I know you're strong, Anshu. And you'll figure this out. But don't keep everything inside."
As the weight of her concerns slowly began to ease, Anshika found herself feeling grateful for the bond she shared with Ananya. Maybe she didn't have all the answers right now.
Anshika's heart raced every time Kartikey's gaze lingered on her. There was something in the way he looked at her-attentive and gentle-that made her feel exposed, as if he could see through all her insecurities. She had never been the type to catch someone's attention, and Kartikey's constant presence made her feel both special and overwhelmed.
Her mind, however, couldn't accept it. She was used to blending into the background, focusing on her studies and dancing, but never on herself. Her family's expectations were always a heavy weight on her shoulders. She had to be perfect-the good, obedient daughter, following all the rules. Any deviation from that path was unacceptable. And Kartikey, with his confident, outgoing nature, seemed worlds apart from the life she was expected to lead.
She often found herself questioning his intentions. Why would someone like him, who could have anyone, be interested in someone like me? She doubted his sincerity, worrying that he might just be toying with her emotions. His advances felt like a dream that she was too scared to wake up from, afraid that it might shatter if she allowed herself to believe in it.
The whispers of her friends only added to the chaos in her mind. "Why don't you just talk to him? He's clearly into you," they teased, but their words felt like a distant echo, unable to penetrate the walls of self-doubt she had built. She wanted to ignore them, but the pressure of their expectations, the pressure to be someone she wasn't, made her feel small.
What if I'm not enough? The thought of him wanting more-more than just her company-terrified her. She couldn't help but wonder: Does he really like me, or is he just looking for a distraction? .
She knew she needed to face the questions swirling in her mind, but for now, the safest choice seemed to be pulling away, keeping her distance, and staying in her comfort zone.
🌻
The campus was buzzing with energy, the crisp winter, Anshika tightened the scarf around her neck and walked briskly towards the library. Her steps faltered slightly when she caught sight of Kartikey leaning casually against the entrance, surrounded by a group of students who seemed thoroughly entertained by his easy charm.
He spotted her almost immediately, his eyes lighting up in recognition. Before she could look away or change her path, he raised a hand in a mock salute.
"Anshika!" he called out, his voice effortlessly cutting through the noise.
She ignored him and quickened her pace, hoping to slip past unnoticed, but he was too quick. In a matter of moments, he was walking beside her, his signature grin firmly in place.
"Kahaan bhaag rahi ho? Kya baat hai, aaj mood off lag raha hai? Ya mujhse gussa ho?" he asked, falling into step with her.
"Where are you running away? What is it, your mood's off or you're upset with me?"
She sighed, clutching her books tighter. "Mujhe library jaana hai."
"I've to go to the library."
"Library toh khuli hi rahegi," he replied nonchalantly. "Lekin tumse ek sawaal poochna tha."
"Library will remain open, but I need to ask you something."
Anshika halted abruptly, turning to face him. "Kya?" she asked, exasperation lacing her tone.
"What?"
"Tum itni serious kyun rehti ho? Smile karne se kya bigad jayega?" he asked, leaning slightly closer, his tone teasing but his gaze intent.
"Why are you always so serious? Smiling won't hurt you know?"
She blinked, caught off guard by the sudden question. "Main aise hi theek hoon," she replied curtly, resuming her walk.
"I'm fine like this."
He chuckled, easily keeping pace. "Acha, aise hi theek ho. Toh kya yeh bhi aise hi theek hai ki tum mujhe avoid karti ho?"
"Okay you're fine like this, but is this fine too that you're avoiding me?"
"Main aapko avoid nahi karti," she muttered, though the defensive edge in her voice betrayed her.
"I'm not avoiding you,"
"Oh really? Toh kal tumne mujhe dekha aur seedha canteen ke dusre gate se bhaag gayi, woh kya tha?" he asked, his eyebrows raised in mock accusation.
"That's why you saw me yesterday and ran away from the other gate of canteen, what was that?"
She felt a blush creep up her neck and silently cursed her luck. "Aapke paas kuch kaam nahi hai kya? Mujhe pareshan karne ke alawa?" she shot back, trying to deflect and ofcourse trying to push him away, her usual defense mechanism.
"Don't you have anything to do? Except bothering me?"
"Mujhe tumse baat karna achha lagta hai," he said simply, his voice softer now, devoid of its usual playfulness.
"I like talking to you."
Her steps slowed at his words, and she glanced at him warily. His eyes held an honesty that made her heart race, and she hated the effect he had on her. Without responding, she turned and entered the library, leaving him standing at the door.
Inside, Anshika found an empty corner and sank into the chair, her heart still pounding. Kartikey had a way of disarming her, peeling back the layers she had carefully built around herself. She opened her book, willing herself to focus, but her thoughts kept drifting back to their conversation.
Why does he care so much? she wondered. And why can't I just ignore him like everyone else?
As she flipped through her notes, her phone buzzed. It was a message from her friend Meera:
Meera: Woh Kartikey fir tumhare peeche tha kya? Poora campus tum dono ke bare mein baatein kar raha hai.
Was Kartikey following you around again? The whole campus is talking about you both
Anshika groaned, rubbing her temples. She quickly typed back:
Anshika: Kuch nahi hai, bas woh project ke baare me pooch raha tha. Logon ke paas kuch kaam nahi hai kya..
It's nothing, he was just asking about a project. Do people not have anything better to do...
Meera's reply came instantly:
Meera: Woh cute toh hai yaar. Agar interested hai toh ek chance toh de sakti ho.
He's cute, if you're interested then give him a chance.
Anshika stared at the message, her fingers hovering over the keyboard. She didn't know how to explain that it wasn't that simple. Her life wasn't that simple.
Meanwhile, Kartikey sat in the canteen with his best friends, Rahul and Arjun, and a plate of steaming samosas.
"Toh, kya progress hui?" Arjun teased, sipping his chai.
"So any progress?"
"Progress? Bhai, woh toh meri taraf dekhti bhi nahi hai properly," Kartikey groaned, leaning back in his chair. "She's... different."
"She doesn't even look at me properly,"
"Different toh hai," Rahul agreed, smirking. "Lekin bhai, woh clearly tujhse intimidate ho jaati hai. Thoda slow ja bhai."
"She's different, but bro, she clearly gets intimated by you. You need to slow down a bit."
Kartikey shook his head, laughing. "Main slow jaane waalon mein se nahi hoon. Lekin haan, uske liye slow jaane ke liye bhi taiyaar hoon. Yeh bhi maan raha hoon ki uska trust jeetna padega. Aur yeh aasaan nahi hoga."
"I'm not someone who goes slow, but I'm ready to do it for her. I agree that I will have to win her trust first and that's not going to be easy."
"Good luck, bhai," Arjun said with a grin. "Tu toh already kaafi invested lag raha hai."
"You already seem so invested."
Kartikey's smile softened as he stared into the distance. "Kyunki I feel...I feel like she is it. Woh kuch samajh nahi rahi, par main usse samjha ke rahunga, kyunki kuch toh uski aankhon me bhi dekha hai maine."
"Because I feel... I feel like she is it. She doesn't understand it, but I'll make her understand, because I see something in her eyes too."
The day wore on, but neither Kartikey nor Anshika could shake the lingering effects of their encounter
Anshika tried to immerse herself in her notes, but every time she wrote down a line, Kartikey's words echoed in her mind: "Mujhe tumse baat karna achha lagta hai."
She shook her head, whispering, "Focus, Anshika. Yeh sab distractions hain." But even as she scolded herself, a part of her wanted to explore why Kartikey was so persistent.
"This is all distractions."
Meanwhile, Kartikey wasn't the kind of guy to sit idle. He had no intention of letting Anshika's aloof demeanor dissuade him. He knew there was more to her than the shy, reserved girl she projected to the world. It wasn't just about her beauty or her graceful dance performance; it was the fleeting moments of vulnerability he'd caught in her eyes, the quiet strength she carried beneath her insecurities.
Back at the canteen, Arjun, munching on his second samosa, said, "Bhai, main bas itna bolunga ki agar tu serious hai, toh patience zaroori hai."
"Bro I'll just say that if you're serious, then patience is important."
"Patience toh hai," Kartikey replied, smirking. "Patience toh main rakh lunga, uske liye kuch bhi. Sabr ka fal bhi toh itna meetha hoga. Uska trust jeetna hai, aur main woh kar ke rahunga."
"I have patience, I'll be patient, I'll do anything for her. Afterall the result will be so sweet. I have to win her trust, and I'll win it anyhow."
The determination in his voice wasn't lost on Arjun, who gave him an approving nod. "Teri love story ka hero toh tu khud hai hi, par hum bhi perfect supporting characters bann ke dikhayenge, kyu bhai?" Arjun looked at Rahul, who nodded confidently.
"You'll be the hero of your love story, but we will also be the perfect supporting character, right bro?"
Kartikey laughed, but his eyes held a glint of resolve. "Hero ki story interesting tab banti hai jab heroine thodi challenge ho. Aur Anshika... she's a perfect challenge, a different one."
"Hero's story becomes interesting when the heroine is a little challenging. And Anshika...."
The next day, Anshika stepped into the library, scanning for a quiet corner where she could bury herself in her books. The smell of old paper and the soft hum of whispers usually calmed her nerves, but today was different. Her thoughts were louder than the silence around her. Just as she settled on a spot, a familiar voice interrupted her thoughts.
"Anshika!" Kartikey's voice was warm and commanding. He was seated at a table near the window, his football jacket casually draped over the chair. His presence seemed to light up the otherwise quiet and serious atmosphere of the library. People turned to look, some with annoyance and others with curiosity, but he didn't seem to care.
She hesitated for a moment, contemplating if she could just ignore him and slip away unnoticed. But before she could decide, he was already waving her over, his grin as wide as ever. Why is he everywhere?
"Idhar aao," he said, his tone playful yet insistent.
"Come here,"
Anshika's feet moved almost involuntarily, as if they had a mind of their own. She found herself standing awkwardly in front of him, clutching her books tightly to her chest.
"Aap library mein?" she asked, her voice soft and uncertain, as though she couldn't quite believe it.
"You? In the library?"
"Haan, kabhi-kabhi mujhe bhi padhaai karni padti hai," he replied with a chuckle, leaning back in his chair with the kind of ease that only he could manage. "But seriously, mujhe yahan dekh ke itna shocked?" he chuckled. "Aur tum toh humesha yahin milti ho."
"Yes, I also have to study sometimes. But seriously you're so shocked seeing me here? And you're always here."
She nodded, not meeting his eyes. "Haan... yahaan shanti hoti hai." Her voice was barely audible, as though she was afraid even the walls might hear her.
"Yes... It's peaceful."
"Hmm, shanti toh tumhare liye zaroori hai, kyunki tum khud hi itni shant ho," he teased, leaning back in his chair and folding his arms. His teasing tone brought a faint smile to her lips, but she quickly hid it by looking away. "Betho," he said as he gestured towards the chair opposite him.
"Yes peace is important for you, you are so quiet after all. Sit."
As she settled into the chair opposite him, her mind wandered to how drastically different their worlds were. Kartikey thrived in chaos-on the football field, in crowded classrooms, even in noisy cafeterias. He seemed to draw energy from people, while she found herself drained in those very same situations. "Kaise ho sakta hai koi itna alag?" she thought to herself, stealing a glance at him. His confidence was magnetic, and yet it sometimes felt overwhelming, like a flame she could only admire from a distance.
"Aap kaafi confident lagte ho," she blurted out suddenly, her words tumbling over each other in her nervousness. She hadn't meant to say it aloud.
"You seem really confident."
"Lagta hoon? Matlab asli main nahi hoon?" He raised an eyebrow, pretending to be offended, though the corners of his mouth twitched in amusement.
"Seem? Am I not?"
"Na-nahi, mera woh matlab nahi tha," she stammered, her cheeks turning a deep shade of red. She looked down, wishing she could disappear into the floor.
"N-no, I didn't mean that."
"Relax, Anshika. I know what you mean." His voice softened, losing its playful edge. "Confidence hona kaafi simple hai, bas tumhe apne aap par bharosa hona chahiye."
"Being confident is simple, you just need to trust yourself."
"Bharosa karna itna aasaan nahi hota," she murmured, almost to herself. Her voice was tinged with a vulnerability that made Kartikey's teasing demeanor falter for a moment.
"Trust is not that easy."
"Kyun nahi? Tum itni talented ho- itna pyaara dance karti ho, padhai mein bhi acchi ho, aur- itni pyaari ho,he thought but did not dare to say. "Aur kya chahiye?" he asked, leaning forward slightly as if trying to bridge the gap between their worlds.
"Why not? You're so talented, you dance so well, you are good at studies and- you're so beautiful, what else you need?"
She shook her head, clutching her books tighter. "Mujhe lagta hai ki log mujhe judge karenge. Agar galti ho gayi toh?"
"I always think about people judging me. What if I make a mistake?"
"Toh galti sudharoge. Simple," he said, shrugging as if it was the easiest thing in the world. "Galti karna allowed hai, Anshika. Perfect hone ki zarurat nahi hai."
"Then we will solve the mistake. Making mistakes is allowed, you don't have to be perfect."
She looked at him skeptically, her mind racing with arguments. She thought of all the times she had hesitated to take a step forward, all the opportunities she had let slip away because of her fear.
"Aapke liye yeh sab simple hoga," she said, a hint of frustration creeping into her voice. "Mere liye nahi hai."
"It might be so simple for you, but it's not for me."
Kartikey studied her for a moment, his playful demeanor replaced by something more serious. There was an intensity in his gaze that made her want to look away, but she couldn't.
"Anshika," he began, his tone firm but kind. "Tumhe pata hai main football team ka captain kaise bana? Main bhi nervous hota tha, har match ke pehle. Par maine kabhi apne nerves ko apne goals ke beech nahi aane diya. Tum bhi kar sakti ho. Just one step."
"You know how I became the captain for football team, even I used to get nervous before matches. But I never let that come between my goals. You can also do it. Just one step."
She looked at him, her eyes wide with doubt and something else - hope, perhaps. She wanted to believe him, to believe that she was capable of more than she allowed herself to think.
"Par kya pata main fail ho jaun?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.
"What if I fail?"
"Aur kya pata tum jeet jao?" he countered, leaning forward with a grin that was equal parts encouraging and challenging. "Risk lena seekho, Anshika. Life mein safe zone mein rehne se kuch nahi hota."
"What if you win? Learn to take risks. Life is not always safe."
The words hung in the air between them, their weight sinking into her mind. She fell silent, his words settling over her like a warm blanket. For someone so different from her, Kartikey seemed to understand her struggles better than she expected. She glanced out the window, the sunlight streaming in through the glass, casting soft patterns on the floor. Maybe, just maybe, he was right.
"Main try karungi," she said finally, her voice barely audible but determined.
"I'll try."
"That's the spirit," he said, grinning. "Ab ek baat batao, chai piyogi.?"
"Now tell me, want to have a chai?"
She couldn't help but smile at his attempt to lighten the mood, his eyes twinkling with mischief. Her cheeks flushed again, but this time, it was accompanied by a small smile she couldn't hide.
Kartikey fascinated her. His carefree attitude, his easy way of talking to anyone-it was the complete opposite of how she operated. She overthought every interaction, wondering if she had said the right thing or if someone was secretly judging her. Kartikey, on the other hand, didn't seem to care. "Inhe logon ki parvah kyun nahi hoti?" she wondered. But more than that, why did he care about her? Why did he keep pushing her to break out of her shell?
From Kartikey's perspective, Anshika was like a mystery he couldn't solve. She was quiet, yes, but her presence was powerful in its own way. He admired her dedication to dance and her sincerity in academics. But what intrigued him most was her vulnerability. "Kyu apne andar itna kuch chhupa ke rakhti ho?," he thought. He wanted to see her take a leap, to let go of her fears, because he believed she was capable of so much more.
As they sat there, their worlds so different yet intertwined, Anshika realized that maybe, just maybe, Kartikey's confidence could help her find her own. And perhaps, in her quiet strength, he had found something he admired too.
And yes, they had that chai later because Kartikey could not let go of the opportunity not knowing that Anshika does not even like chai, that she loves her bitter coffee. Maybe Kartikey was already making his place in her world in ways she wasn't aware of yet.
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