In the silence, I hear your voice
A gentle whisper, a heartfelt choice
To love, to cherish, to hold and adore
The melody of my heart, forever more
Like a symphony, our love will play
A harmony of hearts, in perfect sway
The rhythm of our laughter, the beat of our tears
A love song that echoes, through all the years
In your eyes, my heart finds a home
A place where love resides, and is never alone
With every breath, I'll love you till the end
Together our hearts, will create a love that transcends
So let our love song, be the melody we share
A harmony of hearts, that echoes everywhere
In your arms, my heart beats as one
In our love symphony, we've just begun.
*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ
Saanvi had been home for a few days, but something felt... off. She had looked forward to this break for so long—spending time with her parents, eating home-cooked food, and sleeping in her own bed.
Yet, there was a restlessness she couldn't shake. It wasn't the place. It wasn't even the routine. It was the absence of a certain someone who had unknowingly become a part of her daily life. Ritwik.
She found herself thinking about him at odd moments—while sipping chai in the evening, when flipping through her notes, even during family dinners when her mind wandered. But he hadn't texted, not even once.
Not that she expected him to. Ritwik wasn't the type for casual conversations. Still, a part of her wished he would.
Late one night, as she scrolled mindlessly through her phone, her screen lit up with a notification.
Ritwik: Are you still awake?
Saanvi's heart skipped a beat. Without hesitation, she typed back.
Saanvi: Yeah. You?
Ritwik: Obviously. Who sleeps this early?
She rolled her eyes, smiling to herself.
Saanvi: Some people have normal sleep schedules, you know.
Ritwik: Boring people, maybe.
A laugh bubbled up in her throat. The conversation flowed easily, much like their study sessions—effortless, filled with teasing and comfortable silences. They talked about random things: their holiday plans, an article Ritwik had read, and how Sheetal had apparently convinced everyone to go on a trek.
By the time she finally put her phone down, a warmth had settled in her chest. She hadn't realized how much she missed this. Missed him.
When the holidays ended, she returned to campus with her friends. And as she stepped into the familiar halls of IIT Madras, her eyes instinctively searched for him.
The next day, Tara and Saanvi walked to class together, chatting about their schedules. The campus was buzzing with students, but Saanvi's mind was elsewhere.
As soon as she spotted Ritwik across the corridor, a warmth spread through her. Her eyes lit up like a starry night sky, and for a brief moment, everything else faded. He was there—leaning against a pillar, lost in conversation with his friends, completely unaware of the effect he had on her.
Tara nudged her. "You're staring," she whispered, smirking.
Saanvi quickly looked away, but the grin on her face refused to fade. Her heart had longed to see him all these days, and now that he was in front of her, she felt ecstatic.
Over the next few days, college life resumed in full swing—assignments, lectures, and late-night group studies. But through it all, Saanvi found herself drawn to Ritwik in ways she couldn't explain.
She noticed the way he absentmindedly ran a hand through his hair when he was thinking, the way he tapped his pen against his notebook when lost in thought.
One evening, as she sat in the library trying to focus on her notes, a shadow loomed over her. She looked up to find Ritwik.
"You always take this seat, Lotus" he said, pulling out the chair opposite her.
"Maybe because it's the best one," she replied, closing her book slightly.
He smirked. "Or maybe you just like routine."
She rolled her eyes. "Says the guy who orders the same coffee every day."
Ritwik shrugged. "Some things are just better unchanged."
The silence between them wasn't awkward. It was filled with something unspoken, something warm. They continued studying, stealing glances at each other when they thought the other wasn't looking.
A few days later, during a group project discussion, Saanvi found herself sitting next to him. Their arms brushed occasionally, sending small electric jolts through her.
At one point, he reached for a book at the same time she did. Their fingers touched. She froze. So did he. But instead of pulling away, he simply looked at her, his expression unreadable.
"You take it," he said casually, but there was a softness in his voice.
She swallowed. "Thanks."
The moment was brief but left her heart racing.
One evening, after class, Saanvi was heading toward the cafeteria when she saw Ritwik sitting on the steps outside the main building, looking at the sky. On impulse, she walked over and sat next to him.
"No books today?" she teased.
"Even I take breaks," he replied, glancing at her. "You?"
"Needed fresh air."
They sat in silence, watching the sun dip below the horizon. The air between them felt different tonight—not heavy, not light, just... something in between.
She hugged her knees, stealing a glance at him. "You ever just... feel peaceful for no reason?"
Ritwik didn't look at her, but his voice was softer than usual. "Yeah. Sometimes."
Saanvi smiled to herself. Maybe, just maybe, she was part of his peace too.
After a few days, their college announced a three-day holiday. Excited at the unexpected break, Sheetal was the first to suggest an idea.
"Let's go on a trek!" she said enthusiastically, looking at her friends.
"Trek?" Aarav raised an eyebrow. "You mean climbing mountains and getting exhausted?"
"Oh, come on! It'll be fun," Sheetal insisted. "Fresh air, scenic views, and adventure! We'll make great memories."
Saanvi exchanged glances with Tara, who smirked. "She's not wrong," Tara said.
Ajay stretched his arms lazily. "Fine, I'm in. But only if there's good food."
"We'll pack enough," Sheetal assured him.
After some convincing, everyone agreed, including Ritwik, who nodded without much argument. The plan was set.
The night before, Saanvi and Tara packed essentials—snacks, first aid, water bottles, and extra clothes.
"Did you take sunscreen?" Tara asked while stuffing energy bars into her bag.
Saanvi rolled her eyes. "We're trekking, not sunbathing."
Tara threw the bottle into her bag anyway. "Better safe than sorry."
Early the next morning, they met at the dorm entrance. Ritwik was already there, leaning against the wall with his backpack slung over one shoulder.
"Look who's early for once," Saanvi teased.
He shrugged. "Some things are worth waking up for."
She felt a flutter in her chest but brushed it off.
As the sun began to rise, they set off from the university, the crisp morning air filling their lungs. Laughter echoed through the quiet streets as they made their way to the base of the trek. The adventure had just begun.
The morning sun cast a golden glow over the rugged path as the group climbed higher, the crisp mountain air filling their lungs.
The laughter and chatter of their friends echoed through the valley, blending with the rustling of leaves and chirping of birds. Saanvi and Ritwik walked side by side, occasionally exchanging glances.
As they climbed further, the steep incline tested their endurance. Tara suddenly stopped, breathing heavily.
"I cannot walk any further. My legs are hurting," she complained, placing her hands on her knees.
Sheetal smirked, shaking her head. "We've only climbed halfway. Don't tell me you're giving up already."
Tara groaned. "I don't care how much is left. My legs feel like they are on fire. I just can't."
Aarav, who had been walking ahead, turned back. He observed her struggle and took a deep breath before stepping closer.
"Let me carry you then," he offered casually.
Tara's eyes widened. "What? No way! I'll be too heavy. You don't need to do that. I'll manage."
Ignoring her protest, Aarav suddenly leaned forward, lifted her effortlessly onto his back, and grinned.
"I can't see my girlfriend getting hurt, so kindly cooperate, my better half."
Tara gasped, her cheeks burning. "Aarav! Put me down this instant!"
"Too late," he chuckled, adjusting his grip. "Hold on tight, or I might just let you fall."
Tara sighed in defeat, wrapping her arms around his neck as Aarav carried her up the trail.
Meanwhile, Sheetal and Ajay decided to make things interesting.
"Wanna bet who gets to the top first?" Sheetal smirked.
"You're on," Ajay grinned before sprinting ahead.
Their competitive spirits kicked in, and within moments, they disappeared from sight, leaving behind only Saanvi and Ritwik, who had been walking at a slower pace.
As they continued climbing, Saanvi and Ritwik found themselves lost in conversation.
"So, are you always this quiet, or is it just with me?" Saanvi teased.
Ritwik smirked. "I talk when necessary."
"That's a fancy way of saying you enjoy making me do all the talking."
He chuckled lightly. "Maybe."
Saanvi rolled her eyes playfully. "Fine, then. Tell me something about yourself that I don't know."
Ritwik thought for a moment. "I like sunrises more than sunsets."
She raised an eyebrow. "Why?"
"They mark a new beginning. A fresh start."
Saanvi hummed in response, finding his words unexpectedly deep. She was about to ask more when, suddenly, her foot slipped on a loose rock. Before she could process what was happening, she felt herself falling.
In an instant, Ritwik grabbed her wrist, pulling her back to balance.
"Are you alright, Lotus?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.
Saanvi's heart pounded. "I—I think so."
He made her sit on a nearby rock and crouched in front of her, his gaze sharp as he examined her ankle.
She winced slightly but quickly masked it. "I'm good," she lied.
Ritwik wasn't convinced. Without a word, he reached into his backpack and pulled out a pain-relief spray.
"Here," he said, spraying it gently on her ankle. The cool sensation relieved some of the discomfort.
Saanvi was taken aback. "You carry a pain-relief spray?"
"Always prepared," he replied, capping the bottle.
She smiled softly. "Thanks."
Ritwik stood up and extended his hand toward her. "Come on, let's get moving."
She took his hand, attempting to stand, but the moment she put weight on her foot, a sharp pain shot through her ankle. She gasped and stumbled slightly.
Ritwik caught her again, frowning. "You can't walk."
Saanvi shook her head stubbornly. "It's not that bad. I just need a minute."
But Ritwik wasn't buying it. Without another word, he crouched in front of her.
"What are you doing?" she asked, confused.
"You can't walk, Lotus," he said simply. Before she could protest, he lifted her onto his back with ease.
Saanvi stiffened in surprise. "Ritwik! Put me down! I can manage."
"You call limping 'managing'?" he countered, his tone calm but firm.
She hesitated before giving in, wrapping her arms around his shoulders. "Fine. But if you get tired, tell me, okay?"
He didn't reply, only adjusting his grip as he started walking again.
As they continued the trek, the rhythmic movement and the warmth of Ritwik's back made Saanvi drowsy. She tried keeping up the conversation but soon found her words slurring.
Ritwik noticed her silence after a while and turned his head slightly.
"Lotus?" he called softly.
No response.
A small smile tugged at his lips when he realized she had fallen asleep.
She must be exhausted, he thought, adjusting her weight slightly to make her more comfortable.
For the next hour, Ritwik carried her without complaint, taking careful steps so she wouldn't wake. The path gradually leveled out, and before he knew it, they had reached the top of the mountain. Their friends were gathered near the edge, taking in the breathtaking view, completely unaware of Ritwik carrying Saanvi.
He gently lowered her onto a rock before stepping back.
A few moments later, Saanvi stirred, blinking groggily. Her eyes widened as she realized they had reached the top.
"I fell asleep?" she asked groggily.
Ritwik nodded. "You snore, by the way."
"I do not!" she gasped, horrified.
He smirked but said nothing.
Saanvi rubbed her eyes, then looked at him. "Wait... how did I get here?"
Ritwik stretched his arms casually. "I carried you."
She stared at him in disbelief. "The whole way?"
"Yeah."
She gaped at him. "I am too heavy! Why did you carry me all this way?"
Ritwik arched an eyebrow. "Your bones hurt. Are you even eating, Lotus?"
She gasped, swatting his arm. "I eat just fine!"
He chuckled, effortlessly dodging her weak attempt to hit him.
Before she could argue further, their friends finally noticed them.
"There you are! What took you guys so long?" Sheetal called out.
Ajay smirked. "Don't tell me you got lost?"
Saanvi quickly looked at Ritwik, who showed no sign of revealing what had happened. She sighed in relief.
"Just enjoying the trek at our own pace," she answered casually before settling down next to her friends.
As they all admired the view together, Saanvi stole a glance at Ritwik. He sat beside her, arms resting on his knees, looking at the horizon.
Her heart swelled with something she couldn't quite name.
After reaching the mountain top, they all sat down to admire the breathtaking view. The golden sunset painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, making the long trek worth it. They laughed, clicked countless photos, and shared snacks, enjoying each other's company.
Saanvi stole a few glances at Ritwik, who sat quietly, taking in the scenery. As the evening approached, they started their descent, chatting and joking along the way.
By the time they reached their dorm, exhaustion weighed on them, but their hearts were full of memories. With tired smiles, they bid goodnight and went to rest.
A few days later, Saanvi sat at her table, completely focused, struggling with something.
"What are you doing, Saanvi?" Tara asked curiously, watching her.
"Practicing writing with my left hand," Saanvi replied, not looking up.
"For what?" Tara questioned, raising an eyebrow.
"For writing a love letter," Saanvi admitted with a shy smile.
"To Ritwik?" Tara guessed instantly.
Saanvi looked up, surprised. "How do you know?"
Tara chuckled. "I can see it in your eyes whenever he's around."
Saanvi sighed. "I'm sorry, Tara. I didn't tell you earlier because I wasn't sure if this was love or just a phase. But now that I know how much I'm drawn to him, I wanted to tell you... Looks like you figured it out before I could."
Tara smiled warmly. "You don't have to apologize, Saanvi. I understand." She wrapped her arms around Saanvi in a comforting hug.
Pulling back, Tara grinned mischievously. "So, you're going to be in a relationship soon, huh?"
Saanvi blushed, shaking her head.
"Best of luck, bestie!" Tara teased, winking at her.
Ritwik sat in the quiet library, flipping through his textbook, completely engrossed in his studies. The rustling of pages and the faint tapping of fingers on keyboards filled the room. A few moments later, Saanvi arrived and took her usual seat beside him.
"Why are you late, Lotus?" Ritwik asked without looking up, recognizing her presence instantly.
"I was just dealing with something," Saanvi replied casually, setting her books on the table.
They both immersed themselves in studying, occasionally exchanging notes or discussing topics in hushed tones. The two hours passed in silence, interrupted only by the occasional sighs of frustration or the sound of turning pages.
Ritwik finally stretched his arms and closed his book. "That's it for today. We can leave now," he said, looking at her.
Saanvi nodded but hesitated. She had been waiting for the right moment, and now that their study session was over, it was time. The love letter she had painstakingly written was neatly folded inside her notebook. Her heart pounded as she thought of how to give it to him. Then, out of nowhere, an idea struck her—one that was a little mischievous but perfect.
"I have something to give you," she said, trying to keep her tone neutral.
Ritwik raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"
"A love letter," she said, handing him the neatly folded paper.
Ritwik blinked, stunned. "What?!" His voice was louder than intended, earning a few shushes from nearby students.
Saanvi bit her lip to suppress a smile. "A girl from CSE asked me to give it to you. Kindly take it. Don't refuse. I promised her that I'd hand it over to you."
Ritwik's confusion deepened. He stared at the letter in his hand as if it were a puzzle. "A girl from CSE?" he repeated, glancing at her skeptically.
"Yes," Saanvi replied, keeping her expression composed.
For a moment, Ritwik just held the letter, as if debating whether to open it right then or later. Then, without another word, he stuffed it into his pocket, grabbed his books, and abruptly stood up.
"I'm leaving," he said, still looking slightly dazed.
Before Saanvi could say anything else, he turned and walked out of the library.
She watched him go, biting her lip to hold back a nervous laugh. Her heart raced—partly from excitement, partly from fear. Would he read it immediately? Would he figure it out?
One thing was certain: she had just set something in motion, and now, there was no turning back.
Ritwik stepped out of the shower, drying his hair with a towel as he walked into his room. The quietness told him Ajay wasn't back yet. His gaze fell on the folded love letter resting on the table where he had left it. He hesitated for a moment before sitting down.
Slowly, he picked up the letter, unfolded it, and began to read. The handwriting was neat, slightly slanted, as if the writer had taken great care in penning each word. His eyes moved across the page, and with each line, his expression shifted—curious at first, then surprised, and finally thoughtful.
Dear Prince,
With every passing day, my heart whispers your name like a sweet melody that refuses to fade. When you walk into a room, it feels as if the world slows down, allowing me to memorize every detail of you—the way your eyes hold quiet storms, the way your laughter feels like a warm sunrise after a long night.
Without realizing it, I have found myself drawn to you, captivated by the way you exist so effortlessly. You are the calm in my chaos, the soft echo of a dream I never want to wake up from. I have tried to put these feelings into words countless times, yet they never seem enough. But today, I choose courage over hesitation, ink over silence.
Whenever you're near, my world feels lighter, like a gentle breeze carrying away all my worries. Your kindness, your strength, the way you speak without needing many words—everything about you has become a part of my thoughts, a part of me.
Would you allow me the chance to step closer, to know you beyond fleeting moments, to be the person who stands by your side, not just as a friend but as someone who holds you dear?
Waiting,
Yours.
Ritwik stared at the letter in disbelief, his fingers still gripping the edges of the paper. This wasn't the first love letter he had received—far from it. Over the years, he had received countless confessions, all of which he had ignored without a second thought. He had never felt the need to read any of them. Love, romance, and emotions like these had never intrigued him. They felt distant, unnecessary.
Yet, here he was, reading this one.
Why?
Was it because Saanvi gave it to him? That thought lingered in his mind. If anyone else had handed him a letter, he would have thrown it away without a second glance. But the moment she placed it in his hands, something made him hesitate. Something made him open it, read it, and now, think about it.
Was it curiosity? Did he want to know the girl who had written this? Or was it just because it was Saanvi who passed it to him?
His eyes traced over the words again, lingering on the way each sentence carried warmth, honesty, and something else—something deeper.
For the first time, Ritwik didn't know what to do.