~SOMETIMES IT'S THE JOURNEY THAT TEACHES YOU A LOT ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION~

The chaotic buzz of Howrah station was overwhelming. People were everywhere, some rushing with purpose, others meandering with a certain leisure that seemed out of place in such a bustling environment. Vendors shouted their wares, children ran laughing between harried adults, and over it all, the crackling loudspeakers blared announcements in a language she barely understood.

Standing amidst this pandemonium, she felt a surge of determination tempered with a healthy dose of panic. She was not about to let her three massive suitcases get the better of her. Clutching the handles with a mix of desperation and stubbornness, she began to manoeuvre her way through the crowd.

"Excuse me! Sorry! Ouch!" She winced as one of the wheels of her suitcase ran over her foot. "Why did I think three suitcases were a good idea?" she muttered to herself. Each suitcase seemed to be possessed by its own mischievous spirit, constantly veering off course and bumping into unsuspecting bystanders.

The platform was a sensory overload. The smell of fried snacks mixed with the scent of freshly brewed chai. She sidestepped a vendor who was vigorously chopping onions and nearly tripped over a child chasing after a balloon. Her inner monologue was running wild.

"Why did I pack so much? It's just a week! I bet that guy over there only has a toothbrush and a change of clothes. Men! Always so practical. No sarees, no makeup, no hair straighteners. Just throw in some boxers and a pair of socks and they're good to go."

Just as she was about to give up and collapse onto her suitcases, she saw her train on the far end of the platform. A surge of relief coursed through her. "Almost there," she encouraged herself. With renewed determination, she pushed forward, ignoring the pain in her arms and the sweat trickling down her back.

As she reached the train, the reality of boarding with three unruly suitcases set in. The door seemed miles above her, and the gap between the platform and the train was, in her eyes, an abyss. She tried lifting one suitcase, but it barely budged.

"Okay, you can do this. Just one at a time," she muttered, more to convince herself than anything else. She managed to get one suitcase halfway up the steps before it slipped from her grasp and thudded back onto the platform. She let out a small groan of frustration.

"Need some help?"

The voice was calm and steady, and she turned to see a boy, probably around 27 or 28, standing beside her. He wore specs, a sky-blue full-sleeve t-shirt, and black cargo pants. He had a small bag slung casually over one shoulder. She couldn't help but feel a pang of envy at his light packing.

She hesitated, not wanting to impose, but before she could say anything, he had already picked up one of her suitcases and effortlessly hoisted it onto the train. Then he grabbed the second, and finally the third, stacking them neatly just inside the door.

"No problem," he replied with a smile, adjusting his glasses. "Traveling light has its perks," he added with a wink, as if reading her thoughts.

She felt her cheeks flush as she let out a nervous laugh. "Well, I'm just... uh... preparing for every possible scenario," she said, her voice slightly higher-pitched than usual.

From the corner of her eye, she couldn't help but check him out. He was calm and collected, with an air of effortless cool that contrasted sharply with her frazzled state. She noticed the way his specs sat just right on his nose, and how the blue of his t-shirt brought out the color in his eyes.

"And, um, I guess I'm just really bad at packing light," she added, feeling a little silly but also amused at the situation.

He chuckled, a warm sound that made her smile despite herself. "I could give you some tips if you want," he said, still smiling.

She pretended to ponder this seriously, tapping her chin. "Hmm, that might be helpful. Do you have a PhD in suitcase management or something?"

He laughed again, shaking his head. "Just lots of practice. And maybe a touch of laziness."

She couldn't help but think, "Maybe this trip won't be so bad after all." She was trying to keep a straight face but failing as a giggle escaped.

As she climbed aboard and settled her suitcases, she couldn't help but watch him as he moved gracefully through the crowded compartment and climbed up to his uppermost berth. He found his seat easily, placed his small bag in the overhead rack, and sat down with the ease of someone who had done this a thousand times before. She plopped into her seat across from her luggage, exhausted but grateful.

"Men and their minimalistic packing," she thought, rolling her eyes slightly but smiling nonetheless. "If only I could do that."

Her thoughts wandered as the train began to pull away from the station. She imagined scenarios where she could travel with just a small bag. "I'd have to leave behind my favourite dresses. And what about my shoes? I can't wear the same pair every day! And my books... oh, forget it. It's impossible!"

She watched as he pulled out a book and began reading, seemingly oblivious to the commotion around him. "Of course, he reads. Probably something intellectual too, like history or philosophy," she mused. Her curiosity piqued, she tried to see the cover of his book but couldn't make it out from her angle.

As the train chugged along, she found herself glancing at him occasionally. There was something calming about his presence, something that contrasted sharply with the frenzy of the station and her own chaotic thoughts. She wondered if he was a frequent traveler, someone who had mastered the art of minimalism and tranquility in the face of travel's many challenges.

Just then, the train jolted slightly, causing her to lurch forward. Her hand instinctively grabbed onto the armrest for support, and she noticed he had done the same, their eyes meeting briefly. She quickly looked away, feeling a flush of embarrassment.

"Get a grip," she chastised herself. "It's just a train ride."

But as the journey continued, she couldn't help but feel a growing sense of curiosity about her unexpected helper. Who was he? Where was he headed? And how did he manage to remain so composed and unflustered in the midst of such chaos?

~°~•~°~•~°~

As he settled into his seat, his mind wandered back to the girl with the three enormous suitcases. He couldn't help but shake his head in amused disbelief. "Three suitcases for a week?" he thought. "What could she possibly have in there?"

He had always prided himself on traveling light. In his mind, being able to carry everything you needed in one small bag was a testament to efficiency and practicality. He looked over at her as she struggled to arrange her luggage under the berth and noticed the looks of mild annoyance on the faces of the other passengers around her.

The elderly woman sitting beside her had her lips pressed into a thin line, her displeasure evident. On the other side, an older man was giving disapproving glances every time her trolley bag rolled towards his side with the train's jolts. He almost laughed out loud when he saw the man opposite her mutter something under his breath, his eyes fixed on the offending trolley bag that kept rolling towards him with each jolt of the train.

He leaned back in his seat, his mind running with sarcastic commentary. "It's great that we're promoting independence for women," he thought, a wry smile playing on his lips. "But this is taking it to a whole new level. Independence doesn't mean carrying your entire wardrobe with you and then needing someone else to handle it."

He couldn't help but chuckle quietly to himself, shaking his head at the absurdity of it. He knew he shouldn't judge, but he found the situation a bit comical. "Maybe next time she'll bring her whole house," he mused. "After all, who doesn't need a coffee table and a bookshelf for a week-long trip?"

From his vantage point on the upper berth, he could see her finally manage to tuck her bags under the seat. She sighed in relief and slumped into her seat, clearly exhausted. He watched her for a moment longer, then turned his attention to his book. But he couldn't help but steal glances at her, a mix of curiosity and amusement in his eyes.

"She must have some interesting stories to tell," he thought. "Or maybe she's just really bad at packing." His inner monologue was relentless, and he found himself smirking again as he imagined what might be in those suitcases. "A collection of rocks? Ten pairs of shoes? Enough makeup to open a store?"

He glanced around the compartment again, noting the expressions of the other passengers. The elderly woman beside her was now engrossed in a magazine, her irritation simmering beneath a veneer of calm. The older man opposite her had given up trying to keep the trolley bag at bay and was now staring out the window, resigned to his fate.

"Ah, the joys of train travel," he thought, his sarcasm in full swing. "Bringing people together in the most awkward of ways."

As the train chugged along, he found his thoughts drifting back to the girl. Despite the chaos she had caused, there was something endearing about her determination to handle it all herself. It made him curious to know more about her, even if just to understand why she had packed so much.

"Maybe she has a good reason," he conceded to himself, his inner cynic taking a backseat for a moment. "Or maybe she just needs a good packing lesson."

He shook his head again, smiling to himself as he turned the page of his book. "Either way, this is going to be an interesting journey."

From his seat on the upper berth, he had a clear view of the compartment. The air conditioning hummed softly, providing a welcome respite from the oppressive heat outside.

He watched as she finally settled into her seat, looking around the compartment with wide eyes. She seemed to be taking in everything at once - the rows of seats, the other passengers, the overhead luggage racks, and the window that offered a glimpse of the world rushing by.

He tried to focus on his book, but his mind kept drifting back to the girl. There was something about her that intrigued him - perhaps it was the contrast between her flustered exterior and the determination in her eyes, or maybe it was just the sheer absurdity of her packing choices.

"Why do people make things so complicated?" he thought, turning another page without really reading it. "Traveling should be about the experience, not about dragging half your belongings with you."

He imagined her packing for the trip, methodically folding clothes and tucking in accessories, each item deemed essential for some hypothetical situation. The thought made him smile again, though he knew it wasn't fair to judge. Everyone had their own way of doing things.

When the train jolted slightly, and he saw her grab the armrest for support, her eyes meeting his for a brief moment. She quickly looked away, a flush of embarrassment creeping up her cheeks. He found himself feeling a bit guilty for his earlier thoughts - after all, he had been in her shoes before, overwhelmed and out of place in a new environment.

"Maybe she's just nervous," he thought. "Traveling alone can be daunting, especially with so much luggage."

The train continued its journey, the soft hum of the air conditioning and the rhythmic clatter of the wheels creating a soothing backdrop. He settled back into his seat. The journey ahead promised to be interesting, and he couldn't help but wonder what other surprises lay in store.

~°~•~°~•~°~

The Howrah Bikaner Superfast Express began its journey with a low, steady hum, gradually picking up speed as it left the platform behind. The passengers settled into their seats, the air conditioning providing a much-needed respite from the June heat.

She, now comfortably settled in her seat, glanced around the compartment. Her mind wandered back to the wedding she had attended in Kolkata. It had been a joyous affair, filled with laughter, vibrant colors, and the reunion of old college friends. As she reminisced, she couldn't help but smile, her thoughts a pleasant distraction from the long journey ahead.

Across from her, he was absorbed in his book, the faint lines of concentration etched on his face. He was on his way to Jaipur to attend a conference and also to visit his elder cousin brother, a rare break from his research at the University of Calcutta. As a research scholar in psychology, he was often immersed in his studies, and this trip was a welcome change of pace.

The compartment was a microcosm of India's diversity. An elderly couple sat nearby, the man adjusting his spectacles as he read a newspaper, while the woman meticulously peeled an orange. A family of four was settled in another section, the children excitedly pointing out the window at the passing scenery. The rhythmic clatter of the train wheels created a soothing backdrop to the quiet murmur of conversations and occasional laughter.

She and he, though initially uninterested in interacting, found themselves drawn together by circumstance. The elderly man who had been allotted the upper berth approached her with a gentle request.

"Excuse me, dear. My old bones are not what they used to be. Would you mind exchanging seats with me? I have the upper berth, but I fear climbing up might be a bit too much for me."

She smiled warmly and nodded. "Of course, I'd be happy to switch with you." She stood up and helped the old man settle into her lower berth before climbing up to the upper one herself.

From the upper berth, he watched this exchange with a quiet appreciation, noting her kindness.

She, with her natural politeness, agreed immediately help the uncle move his belongings to her seat.

He watched the interaction, impressed by her willingness to help. As she climbed up to the upper berth, he found himself watching her, an unspoken sense of curiosity drawing him in. He was there to continue his research on human behaviour as a psychology scholar at the University of Calcutta, and the diversity of people on the train presented a perfect study environment.

As the train sped through the lush green landscapes of West Bengal, both of them remained mostly silent, each absorbed in their own thoughts. She glanced occasionally, catching glimpses of him still engrossed in his book.

A few hours into the journey, the ticket inspector arrived, checking tickets and confirming identities. He appeared, making his way down the aisle. As he approached her berth, she leaned down a little to show her ticket.

"Name?" the TT asked, his stylus poised over his tablet.

"Pakhi Rathore," she responded, handing over her ticket.

The TT nodded, making a note. He turned to Vidyut next.

"And you?"

"Vidyut Sen," Vidyut replied, producing his own ticket.

"Both boarded from Kolkata and are going to Jaipur?"

"Yes!" Both replied in unison. Their eyes met for a long time now.

The inspector nodded and moved on, leaving Pakhi and Vidyut with a newfound awareness of each other's names. Pakhi couldn't help but smile at the formality of the introduction, while Vidyut found himself curious about the girl with the enormous suitcases.

Pakhi couldn't help but chuckle softly to herself. She hadn't planned on learning her neighbour's name through such a mundane exchange.

Vidyut, eyeing her chuckle, looked with interest, catching her eye for the first time since they boarded. "What's so funny?" he asked, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.

"Oh, nothing," Pakhi replied, feeling a bit embarrassed. "I just found it amusing that we found out each other's names through the TT. I guess it's as good an introduction as any."

Vidyut closed his book, marking his place with a finger. "True enough."

Both were now facing each other. "So, Vidyut, what brings you to Jaipur?"

Vidyut looked up from his book, slightly surprised by the question. "I'm on my way to a Mental Health conference in Jaipur,"

"Huh?" She gave a clueless look, not quite understanding.

Vidyut explained. "I'm a research scholar at the University of Calcutta. This trip is both for work and a bit of a break from the usual routine."

"A research scholar?" Pakhi said, genuinely impressed. "That sounds fascinating. What's your area of focus?"

"Human behaviour and its psychological underpinnings. Specifically, I'm looking at the impact of social environments on individual decision-making processes," Vidyut replied, his eyes lighting up with enthusiasm.

"That's really interesting," Pakhi said, leaning forward slightly. "I work in an insurance company, dealing with risk assessment and management. It's not as exciting as psychology, but it has its moments."

Vidyut nodded appreciatively. "Every field has its own unique challenges and rewards. Risk assessment sounds like it requires a lot of analytical thinking."

"It does," Pakhi agreed. "And a fair bit of patience too. But it's rewarding in its own way."

"Pakhi, what brings you on this long journey?" He inquired, crossing his arms and leaning back.

Pakhi's eyes lit up. "I was in Kolkata for a friend's wedding. Now I'm heading back to Jaipur, to my family."

Vidyut nodded, finding her enthusiasm infectious. "A wedding in Kolkata, huh? Must have been quite the celebration."

"Oh, it was!" Pakhi laughed. "So many people, so much food, and the music... it was wonderful. And now I'm lugging half of my wardrobe back with me," she added with a playful roll of her eyes.

Vidyut chuckled, appreciating her humour. "I can see that. But it's good to be prepared for any situation, right?"

Pakhi grinned. "Exactly! So, what do you do when you're not traveling light?"

"I spend most of my time buried in books, thesis and research papers, so this trip is a nice change of pace." He replied with a modest smile.

Pakhi raised an eyebrow, shrugging her shoulders. "Well, I can't. And can never do so much study. Studies and I, we have never shared a good equation. But well Psychology, huh? That sounds intense. What are you researching?"

"Human behaviour, widely. How people think, feel, and act in different situations. It's fascinating, really. Every day, I learn something new."

Their conversation flowed naturally, a comfortable rhythm developing as they shared stories and experiences.

~°~•~°~•~°~

As the day turned to evening, the train made a scheduled stop at a small, bustling station of Koderma. Pakhi took the opportunity to step out of the train, feeling the cool breeze against her face. The sun was setting, casting a golden glow over the platform. Vidyut followed shortly after, standing a few feet away, enjoying the respite from the confined space.

"It's a long journey, isn't it?" Vidyut remarked, his voice breaking the comfortable silence between them.

Pakhi turned to face him, nodding. "Yes, it is. But it's nice to see the changing landscapes."

He smiled, a thoughtful look in his eyes. "That's true. It's one of the perks of train travel, I suppose."

They stood in companionable silence for a few more moments, watching as vendors moved along the platform, hawking their wares. The aroma of freshly brewed chai and fried snacks wafted through the air, tempting the passengers. Pakhi's eyes lit up as she spotted a chai vendor nearby.

"I could use a cup of chai," she said, more to herself than to Vidyut. She approached the vendor and bought two cups, one for herself and one for Vidyut. She took a sip from her cup, savouring the sweet, spicy flavour, a contented smile spreading across her face.

Noticing Vidyut's gaze on the cups, she offered him his cup. "Would you like some? It's really good."

He hesitated for a moment before accepting. "Sure, thanks." He took a sip and nodded appreciatively. Though he wasn't a fan of chai, preferring the bitterness of coffee, her excitement for chai charmed him into trying it.

Pakhi took another sip and sighed happily. "I can't live without chai. I can die for it and can even die without it," she said with a laugh, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

Vidyut chuckled, charmed by her enthusiasm. "Really? I never thought of chai as something that vital."

She grinned. "It's my little piece of comfort, no matter where I am. It's like a hug in a cup."

Vidyut smiled, feeling a warmth spread through him that had nothing to do with the chai. "I can see that. For me, it's coffee. There's something about its bitter kick that wakes me up and keeps me going."

Their conversation flowed naturally, the initial awkwardness melting away. They found themselves laughing and sharing stories, each one revealing a little more about who they were. Vidyut watched her as she animatedly described her favourite chai experiences, her eyes sparkling with joy. He found himself getting lost in the rhythm of her words, her passion infectious.

As the train's whistle blew, signalling it was time to reboard, they reluctantly made their way back to their compartment. Vidyut found himself watching Pakhi as she settled back into her seat, a small smile playing on his lips. There was something undeniably endearing about her.

"So, Pakhi," Vidyut began, looking at her thoughtfully, "do you travel often?"

"Not as much as I'd like," she admitted, her gaze meeting his. "But when I do, I love immersing myself in new places, trying local foods, and just... experiencing life."

Vidyut nodded, appreciating her openness. "I feel the same. There's something about new experiences that makes life richer."

As the train resumed its journey, the rhythmic clatter of the wheels became a comforting backdrop to their conversation. They leaned in closer, the world outside the window and below their berths turning into a blur of lights and shadows.

"What's one place you've always wanted to visit?" Pakhi asked, curiosity evident in her eyes.

"Varanasi," Vidyut replied without hesitation. "The culture, the spirituality, the Ganga ghats... it all fascinates me."

Pakhi's eyes widened with excitement. "Me too! I've always wanted to experience the Ganga Aarti and explore the narrow lanes filled with history and stories."

Vidyut's heart warmed at the shared interest. "Maybe one day, we'll both get to see it."

The idea of a shared future, even in a hypothetical sense, made Pakhi's heart flutter. She glanced out the window, the landscape rushing by, and felt a sense of connection with Vidyut that she hadn't expected. "Maybe! I really wish."

"Do you have any hobbies?" Vidyut asked, breaking the silence and awkwardness.

"Not any notable but yeah, I at times indulge in writing poetry," Pakhi confessed, a sad smile on her lips. "It's my way of expressing what I can't put into words."

"Poetry?" Vidyut's interest was piqued. "Do you have any you could share?"

Pakhi hesitated for a moment, then pulled out her phone. "I post some of my poems on Instagram. Here, let me show you."

She navigated to her Instagram profile and opened her story archive, showing him a collection of her poems. As Vidyut scrolled through, he read a few carefully crafted verses, each one filled with emotion and depth.

"This one's beautiful," he said, pausing on a poem about the beauty of fleeting moments in one's life.

Pakhi blushed slightly. "Thank you. Writing helps me process my thoughts and feelings. It's like an emotional release."

Vidyut looked at her, admiration evident in his eyes. "You're really talented, Pakhi. Your words have a way of resonating deeply."

Pakhi's heart swelled at his praise. "That means a lot to me, Vidyut. Thank you."

Their conversation continued, each question and answer peeling back layers of their personalities, their lives. During dinner too, they spoke about their favourite books, movies, and childhood memories, laughing at shared experiences and marvelling at their differences.

~°~•~°~•~°~

As the night deepened, a comfortable silence settled between them. Pakhi leaned back in her seat, her eyes feeling heavy. The gentle sway of the train and the rhythmic clatter of the wheels created a soothing lullaby that seemed to calm the restless energy within her. Vidyut watched her for a moment, his gaze softening as he observed the way her eyelids drooped with exhaustion.

The 3rd AC train compartment was a world unto itself, a cocoon of dimmed lights and hushed voices. The passengers, wrapped in their blankets and lost in their thoughts, created an atmosphere of serene quietude. The pale glow of the reading lights cast long shadows on the walls, and the occasional murmur of a sleeper talking in their dreams punctuated the silence. The train continued its steady journey through the night, the world outside a blur of darkness and fleeting glimpses of starlit skies.

Pakhi stretched her legs out on the narrow berth, trying to find a comfortable position. Vidyut, situated on the opposite upper berth, couldn't take his eyes off her. He felt a strange, unspoken connection with her, a pull that he couldn't quite understand but didn't want to resist. There was a yearning in the air, a desire to keep talking, to keep unraveling each other's stories, but the silence was comforting, and neither wanted to break it.

Suddenly, Pakhi's phone buzzed, jolting her from her drowsiness. She blinked a few times, trying to clear the fog of sleep from her mind. A notification popped up: Vidyut had sent her a friend request on Instagram. She immediately looked at him on the opposite upper berth. He was watching her, a gentle smile playing on his lips. His eyes twinkled with a warmth that made her heart flutter. She smiled back, feeling a rush of happiness and excitement.

She accepted the request and, without hesitation, followed him back. She noticed his profile picture, a candid shot of him laughing in some picturesque location. His bio was simple and understated, reflecting the man she was getting to know: "Traveler. Coffee Lover. Seeking the Extraordinary in the Ordinary."

Just then, Vidyut's phone rang, breaking the spell. He glanced at the screen and sighed, a hint of frustration crossing his features. "Excuse me," he mouthed, before answering the call. Pakhi watched as he engaged in a conversation, his voice low but firm. She couldn't make out the words, but the tone suggested it was something important.

Pakhi waited, her eyes flicking between her phone and Vidyut. The minutes ticked by, and the call continued. She could see the tension in his posture, the way he ran a hand through his hair, a sign of impatience or perhaps worry. She couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy and sadness. Since boarding the train, Vidyut had received several calls, while her phone remained silent. No one had called or messaged her. Was this a sign that nobody cared for her in the world? The thought weighed heavily on her heart.

Feeling hopeless, Pakhi put her phone away and lay down, pulling the blanket over her shoulders. The warmth enveloped her, but it did little to chase away the cold feeling of loneliness. She stared at the ceiling of the compartment, the shadows dancing like ghosts of her insecurities. Her mind wandered to the friends she had drifted apart from, the family who seldom called, and the countless times she had felt like an afterthought in the lives of those she cared about.

The exhaustion of the day and the emotional turmoil soon took their toll. Her eyelids grew heavier, and she succumbed to sleep, her mind finally finding a respite in the realm of dreams. Vidyut, finishing up his call, looked over at her. He noticed the subtle change in her breathing, the way her body had relaxed into the berth. A smile tugged at his lips as he watched her sleep, the peaceful expression on her face bringing him a sense of calm he hadn't felt in a while.

Unable to sleep himself, Vidyut felt the restlessness creeping in. He reached for his phone, opening Instagram. He navigated to Pakhi's profile, intrigued by the glimpse of her poetry he had seen earlier. He started reading through her poems one by one, each piece revealing a different facet of her soul.

The themes of her poetry were overwhelmingly sad, each verse dripping with melancholy and longing. There were poems about lost love, unfulfilled dreams, and the ache of loneliness. The words were beautiful yet haunting, painting vivid pictures of her inner world. Vidyut found himself captivated by the depth of her emotions, the raw honesty in her writing.

One poem, in particular, caught his attention. It was about the city of Varanasi, a place that held a special meaning for both of them. The poem spoke of the ghats bathed in the golden light of dawn, the spiritual solace found in the chants of priests, and the profound sense of history and culture that permeated the air. But beneath the surface, there was an undercurrent of sadness, a longing for something just out of reach.

In Banaras' dawn, ghats bathe in gold,
Priests' chants bring solace, ancient and bold.
History and culture in every breath,
Yet sadness lingers, a silent death.

Beneath the surface, a yearning remains,
For dreams unfulfilled, and unspoken pains.
In sacred chants and morning's light,
Banaras weeps for the lost in the night.

As Vidyut read her words, he felt a deep connection to her pain. He understood what it meant to feel alone, to grapple with the weight of unspoken words and unfulfilled desires. He wondered what had inspired these poems, what stories lay behind the lines she had written.

The night stretched on, and Vidyut continued reading, each poem drawing him further into Pakhi's world. He felt a growing protectiveness towards her, a desire to be the person who brought light into her life, who made her feel seen and valued. He wanted to know more about her, to uncover the layers of her personality and understand the woman behind the words.

Eventually, fatigue began to catch up with him. He set his phone aside and lay back on his berth, the gentle rocking of the train finally lulling him towards sleep. As he drifted off to sleep, he couldn't shake the feeling that this journey was more than just a train ride. It was the beginning of something unexpected, something that could change both their lives in ways they couldn't yet imagine.

~°~•~°~•~°~

Morning arrived with the soft light of dawn filtering through the windows. The train was now rolling through the lush green landscapes of Uttar Pradesh. Pakhi stirred, waking up to the gentle murmur of the waking passengers and the faint aroma of chai being selled by the vendors roaming by. "Chai garam, chai garam."

She sat up, stretching and rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Across from her, Vidyut was still asleep, his face relaxed and peaceful. She watched him for a moment, feeling a strange sense of warmth. Despite the hopeless thoughts from the night before, she felt a bit lighter this morning.

Quietly, she turned on her phone and opened Instagram, scrolling through her feed. She saw that Vidyut had liked several of her poetry posts, and her heart skipped a beat. She hadn't expected him to take such an interest in her writing. It was a small gesture, but it meant a lot to her.

A few minutes later, Vidyut woke up, stretching and yawning. He noticed Pakhi watching him and gave her a sleepy smile. "Good morning," he said, his voice husky with sleep.

"Morning," she replied, feeling a blush creep up her cheeks.

The train made a scheduled stop at Mughalsarai station. They decided to step out and stretch their legs. Pakhi was desperately in need of a good chai, and Vidyut gave her company. They found a vendor and bought two cups of steaming chai. Pakhi took a sip, savoring the sweet, spicy flavor.

"This is my life," she sighed contentedly.

Vidyut chuckled. "Simple pleasures, huh?"

Pakhi smiled, but then her expression turned introspective. "Chai offers me comfort when nobody's there to do so. It gives me a feeling of familiarity, of home."

He watched her carefully, sensing a deeper meaning behind her words. "What do you mean by that?" he asked gently.

Pakhi hesitated, her eyes darting away. "Oh, it's nothing. Just...you know, everyone has their comforts."

Vidyut didn't push but waited patiently, taking another sip of his chai. "Sometimes, it helps to talk about it," he said softly.

She looked at him, weighing her options. His gaze was steady and kind, encouraging without being intrusive. Finally, she spoke, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's just... no matter how hard I try, nobody stays in my life."

Vidyut's eyes softened. "That sounds tough, Pakhi. But you know, self-love is important too."

Her eyes teared up immediately as she continued, her words coming out slowly, as if she were testing the waters. "I put so much effort into my relationships, but it's like I'm never enough. People leave, and I'm left wondering what I did wrong."

Vidyut reached out and took her hand, his touch gentle. "Pakhi, you are enough. The problem isn't you; it's the people who don't appreciate you. You need to love yourself first. Once you do that, you'll attract the right kind of people into your life."

Pakhi sniffled, a tear escaping down her cheek. "But its not easy. Nothing is easy. How do I love myself?"

Vidyut smiled, squeezing her hand. "Start by being kind to yourself. Give yourself the same love and care you'd give to others. And remember, you don't need anyone else to complete you. You are whole just as you are."

Pakhi looked at him, a mixture of surprise and gratitude in her eyes. "You sound like you understand."

"I try to," Vidyut said softly. "I've studied psychology, so I know how important it is to feel seen and understood. It's a basic human need. But more than that, I've felt similar things in my own life. It's not always easy to connect with people on a deeper level."

Pakhi nodded, feeling a connection to Vidyut that went beyond words. She appreciated his understanding and the way he listened without judgment. For the first time in a long while, she felt like someone truly saw her, heard her.

"Thank you for listening," she said quietly, her voice trembling slightly. Tears welled up in her eyes, but she quickly blinked them away. "It means a lot."

"Anytime," Vidyut replied with a warm smile. "And remember, it's okay to need comfort, whether it's from chai or from the people around you. You deserve to feel supported and valued."

Pakhi's eyes glistened with tears, but she let them fall this time. She felt a mix of relief and vulnerability. "I just wish it wasn't so hard," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Vidyut reached out and gently touched her another arm. "It's okay to feel that way. You don't always have to be strong. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is to allow yourself to feel and to ask for what you need."

Pakhi looked up at him, her eyes searching his for reassurance. "How do you do it? How do you stay so... balanced?"

Vidyut sighed, thinking for a moment. "It's not easy. I've had to learn to take care of myself first. Self-love isn't selfish; it's necessary. You can't pour from an empty cup. You have to fill your own cup first, with things that make you happy, with self-acceptance, and with love for who you are."

Pakhi nodded, tears still streaming down her face. "But how do you start?"

"Start with small things," Vidyut suggested gently. "Find little moments of joy, like your chai. Appreciate those moments and be kind to yourself. It's okay to have bad days. It's okay to feel lost. Just remember that you're worthy of love and kindness, especially from yourself."

Pakhi took a deep breath, feeling a sense of clarity. She wiped her tears and managed a small smile, but her eyes still held doubt. "You for real sound like a psychologist."

He chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "Sound like? Ma'am, I'm really a psychologist. But for now, I'm just a guy who likes your poetry and wants to see you happy."

She immensely felt touched by his words.

Vidyut smiled warmly at her. "Remember, you're not alone. There are people who care about you, even if it doesn't always feel like it. And more importantly, you have to care about yourself. That's the most important relationship you'll ever have."

Pakhi looked at him, feeling a mixture of gratitude and a budding sense of hope. For the first time in a long time, she felt understood and supported. The weight of her loneliness felt a little lighter, and she allowed herself to bask in this new feeling. The warmth of the chai in her hands and the kindness in Vidyut's eyes made her feel more grounded.

She blinked away the remaining tears and smiled. "You're right. I need to start being kinder to myself. Maybe I've been too focused on what I'm lacking, instead of appreciating what I have."

Vidyut nodded, his eyes reflecting a quiet encouragement. "Exactly. It's about perspective. And if you ever need a reminder, just think about the simple joys-like chai or having a chat with me. It's those little things that can bring a lot of happiness. I'm recommending you - chai therapy."

Pakhi chuckled softly, feeling a bit lighter. "Chai therapy, huh? Maybe I should write a poem about that."

Vidyut's smile widened. "I'd love to read it. Your poetry is beautiful, by the way. It's so raw and honest. I think that's what makes it so powerful."

Pakhi felt a blush rise to her cheeks again. "Thank you. Writing has always been my way of coping. It's like a friend who's always there, even when no one else is."

"That's a beautiful way to put it," Vidyut said, his voice gentle. "And remember, it's okay to lean on others too. You don't have to go through everything alone."

Pakhi nodded, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. "I'll try to remember that. Thank you for being so kind, Vidyut. It means more than you know."

He reached out and took her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Anytime, Pakhi. You're worth it. Don't ever doubt that."

The moment felt charged with a delicate intimacy, an unspoken connection that was growing stronger. Pakhi felt a tear escape and roll down her cheek, but this time, it was a tear of relief and newfound hope. She squeezed his hand back, feeling a sense of solidarity and support.

They stood there on the platform, sipping their chai and watching the world wake up around them. The early morning light cast a golden glow on everything, making it all seem a bit more magical.

In that quiet moment, surrounded by the bustle of the station and the simple comfort of their shared chai, Pakhi felt a small but significant shift inside her. She realized that maybe, just maybe, she could start to see herself the way Vidyut saw her-as someone worthy of love and kindness, starting with her own.

As they boarded the train again, Vidyut looked at her and said, "I'm glad we met, Pakhi. I feel like I've known you for a long time."

Pakhi smiled, feeling a deep sense of gratitude. "Me too, Vidyut. Me too."

They settled back into their seats, the train starting to move again. Pakhi looked out the window, feeling a sense of peace she hadn't felt in a long time. She glanced at Vidyut, who was scrolling through his phone, and felt a newfound appreciation for this unexpected friendship that was blossoming into something more.

In that moment, she knew that whatever the future held, she had someone who believed in her and reminded her of her own worth. And that made all the difference.

~°~•~°~•~°~

The train journey continued with the rhythmic clatter of wheels against tracks, each passing moment bringing Vidyut and Pakhi closer to their destination. They had shared an intimate and heartwarming moment on the platform, and as the train rolled on, the bond between them seemed to grow stronger. Pakhi felt a sense of comfort and connection with Vidyut that she hadn't experienced in a long time.

As they settled back into their seats, Vidyut began to open up about his own life, sharing bits and pieces of his past that Pakhi found both fascinating and overwhelming. He talked about his work as a psychologist, the challenges he faced, and the moments of fulfillment he found in helping others. Pakhi listened intently, her admiration for Vidyut growing with each word.

"You know," Vidyut said, his voice thoughtful, "I didn't always have it all figured out. There were times when I felt just as lost as you did. My journey hasn't been easy, but I've learned that every struggle teaches you something valuable."

Pakhi nodded, feeling a deep sense of empathy. "It's comforting to know that even someone as wise as you has had their struggles. It makes me feel less alone."

Vidyut smiled, his eyes warm. "We're all in this together, Pakhi. Life is a series of ups and downs, and it's the connections we make that help us navigate it all."

The conversation flowed naturally, with Vidyut sharing stories about his family, his childhood, and the experiences that had shaped him. Pakhi found herself drawn to his honesty and vulnerability. It was as if a door had opened, allowing her to see the layers of complexity that made up Vidyut's character.

By the evening, as the train approached a small town, Etawah, Vidyut's expression changed, becoming more sombre. He looked out the window, lost in thought. Pakhi noticed the shift and gently placed her hand on his arm.

"Is everything okay?" she asked softly.

Vidyut sighed, turning to face her. "This town holds a lot of memories for me. It's where I grew up, and where I faced some of my biggest challenges."

Pakhi squeezed his arm, offering silent support. "Do you want to talk about it?"

Vidyut hesitated for a moment before nodding. "When I was younger, my family went through a lot of hardships. My father lost his job, and we struggled to make ends meet. It was a tough time for all of us. But it was also a time that taught me resilience and the importance of supporting one another."

Pakhi's heart ached for him. She could see the pain in his eyes, but also the strength that had come from those experiences. "You're incredibly strong, Vidyut. I can see that."

Vidyut gave her a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Pakhi. It means a lot to hear that."

The train continued its journey, and soon they were just a few hours away from their destination. Sun had almost set. Pakhi felt a growing sense of anticipation and excitement, mixed with a bit of anxiety about what lay ahead. She glanced at Vidyut, who was now reading a book, and felt a surge of gratitude for his presence.

~°~•~°~•~°~

They lapsed into a comfortable silence once more, the rhythmic sound of the train's wheels against the tracks filling the space between them. Pakhi found herself reflecting on the bond that had formed between them over the course of their journey. What had started as a chance encounter had blossomed into a meaningful connection-one that she cherished deeply.

As night fell and the train continued its steady journey towards their destination, Pakhi felt a sense of contentment settle over her. She glanced out the window at the stars beginning to twinkle in the night sky, their gentle glow a comforting reminder of the vastness of the universe.

"Look," Pakhi murmured, pointing out the window. "The stars are out tonight."

Vidyut followed her gaze, a soft smile playing on his lips. "They're beautiful," he agreed softly. "It's moments like these that remind me how small we are in the grand scheme of things."

Pakhi nodded in agreement, feeling a sense of peace wash over her. "Yet, even in our smallness, we can find moments of connection and understanding," she mused, her voice barely above a whisper.

Vidyut turned to her, his eyes gentle and smiled.

Pakhi top smiled warmly at him, her heart overflowing with pleasant feelings.

They sat together in companionable silence, the gentle hum of the train lulling them into a peaceful calm. As they neared their destination, Pakhi felt a sense of anticipation mingled with a hint of sadness that their journey together was coming to an end.

"I'm glad we met, Vidyut," Pakhi said softly, repeating his words from the morning and breaking the silence once more. "I feel like I've known you for much longer than just this train ride."

Vidyut's smile was tender as he met her gaze. "Me too, Pakhi. You've brought a lightness to my day that I sorely needed."

They shared a moment of quiet understanding, the unspoken connection between them growing stronger with each passing moment. Pakhi realized that, despite the uncertainties that lay ahead, she had found a friend in Vidyut-a friend who had shown her kindness and compassion when she needed it most.

~°~•~°~•~°~

A few hours later, they reached their destination. The night had settled in, casting a serene, cool darkness over Jaipur Junction. Vidyut and Pakhi stepped off the train.

The bustling scene of Jaipur Junction was alive with the hum of activity, even at this late hour. Vendors called out their wares, porters hurried past with heavy loads, and travelers navigated their way through the station. The iconic pink architecture of the station, a testament to the city's rich heritage, was illuminated by the soft glow of the station lights, adding to the charm of their arrival.

Vidyut helped Pakhi with her three bags, a task that quickly turned into a comical scene. As he struggled to balance the bags, nearly tripping over one, Pakhi couldn't help but laugh.

"Vidyut, are you sure we don't need a porter?" she teased, giggling at his antics.

He grinned, finally managing to get a good grip on the bags. "I'm good, just didn't expect you to bring your whole wardrobe."

She chuckled masking her embarrassment. An elderly lady from their compartment, watching them with a twinkle in her eye, walked past and commented, "I understand that you two were together but still four bags for two individuals is so much. Now, see you guys are struggling together."

She left, leaving Vidyut and Pakhi laughing. The absurdity of the situation and the old lady's emphasis on the word 'together' twice lightened the bittersweet moment of their journey's end.

As they were bidding goodbye, both hesitated before hugging each other. The embrace was warm and comforting, a silent acknowledgment of the bond they had formed.

"I'll come to your conference hall tomorrow," Pakhi said as they pulled away, a playful glint in her eyes.

Vidyut, surprised, asked, "Why?"

Pakhi shrugged playfully. "Okay, if you don't want me to, then I won't."

He quickly countered, "Why would I not want that? I want more chances of us being 'together.'" He stressed the word, referencing the old lady's comment.

Pakhi laughed out loud, the tension of parting momentarily forgotten. "Alright, I'll be there for us to be 'together' again."

Hand in hand, they walked out of the station, feeling a mixture of excitement, anticipation, and a hint of sadness that their journey together was temporarily coming to an end.

The night air was cool and refreshing, and as they stepped into the bustling city of Jaipur, they both knew that this was just the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

~°~•~°~•~°~

Hope this was worth your time & read.
Eagerly await your discerning thoughts on my debut one-shot.

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Signing off -
PRAJNA💕