Srisha Ahuja POV:
As I step out of my room, I can still feel the lingering excitement from the night before, but it quickly dissipates as I remember Rohan's lackluster performance. I shake my head, trying to push the thoughts aside. Today is all about fun, friends, and flaunting what I have.
The college campus is buzzing with energy. Students in vibrant traditional attire fill the hallways, laughter echoing around me. I make my way to the main courtyard, where a huge stage has been set up for the cultural festivities. Myra spots me from a distance, her pink silk saree flowing gracefully as she rushes over.
"Srriii! You look stunning!" she exclaims, her eyes sparkling with excitement. She wraps her arms around me in a tight hug. "I didn't think you could pull off red this well!"
"Thanks babe! You look amazing too, but you know that," I reply, admiring her choice of attire. "So, what's the plan for today? Dance-offs? Food stalls? Maybe some drama?" I wink at her, knowing how much she loves a good performance.
Myra smirks, "Actually, there's a surprise event happening later. A dance battle between the seniors and first-years! You have to participate! Imagine the spotlight on you!"
My heart races at the thought. "Oh come on, I can't just jump into that! What if I mess up?"
"Exactly! That's the fun part! Besides, you won't be alone; I'll be right there with you. And hey, it could be a great way to show Rohan what he's missing," she nudges me playfully.
I roll my eyes but can't help the smile that creeps onto my face. "Fine, I’ll think about it." Just then, Rohan strolls over, his casual attire clashing with the festive atmosphere.
"Hey, beautiful," he says, a lazy grin on his face. "Looking good, as always."
"Thanks," I reply, trying to keep my tone light despite the frustration that bubbles beneath the surface. "Are you participating in the dance battle?"
He shrugs, "Nah, I think I'll just sit this one out. Not really my scene."
My thoughts spiral as I watch him saunter off to join his friends. I can't help but feel a pang of disappointment. He isn't trying to be part of the culture, the excitement. Just as I'm about to voice my thoughts to Myra, the announcer's voice booms through the speakers.
"Attention everyone! We are about to begin the first round of the dance battle! First-years, please gather around the stage!"
Myra grabs my hand, pulling me toward the crowd. "This is our moment, Sai! Let’s show them what we got!"
As we make our way to the stage, I can't shake the feeling that something is about to change. The energy in the air is electric, and for a moment, I forget about Rohan and his indifference. The music starts, and the crowd's cheers drown out my insecurities.
Suddenly, a figure appears at the edge of the stage. It’s Ayaan, the mysterious senior I’ve seen around campus. His presence is magnetic, and I catch him watching me intently.
"Who is that?" I whisper to Myra, trying to hide the sudden flutter in my stomach.
"That’s Ayaan! He’s a dance prodigy. Everyone’s been talking about him!" Myra replies, her eyes wide with awe.
As the first round begins, I focus on the music, letting it guide my movements. My body flows with the rhythm, and I feel alive for the first time in what feels like ages. The crowd is wild, cheering, clapping, and I can’t help but smile.
But just as I’m about to break into my best move, I glance to the side of the stage and lock eyes with Ayaan. Something in his gaze sends a thrill down my spine, igniting a spark of confidence I didn’t know I had.
In that moment, I realize that maybe there’s more to life than just Rohan. Maybe it’s time to explore new connections, new possibilities.
As I finish my performance, the crowd erupts in applause, and I can’t help but beam. But in the back of my mind, the unresolved feelings for Rohan and the new, intriguing presence of Ayaan linger, leaving me at a crossroads I never anticipated.
As the event continues, I can’t shake the feeling that this dance battle is just the beginning of something much bigger than me—something that could change everything.
---
The music fades, but the excitement in my chest remains. I glance over at Myra, who is grinning from ear to ear, and then back at Ayaan, who is now making his way toward me.
“Great job out there,” he says, his voice smooth and inviting.
“Thanks! You were watching?” I ask, a little surprised.
“Couldn’t take my eyes off you,” he replies, a hint of mischief in his expression.
And just like that, I find myself caught in a whirlwind of emotions—uncertainty, excitement, and a hint of danger, as the day unfolds into something I never expected.
I take a deep breath, ready to embrace whatever comes next.
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