Flashback...

We settled into our usual spot in the library, a secluded corner where we could focus on studying for the upcoming exams. Wrapped in each other's arms, I could feel Ranbir shifting closer, prompting me to speak up.

"Ranbir, please stop," I murmured, feeling a bit uncomfortable with his proximity.

"What's wrong, Mahira? I just want to hug my girlfriend," he replied with a slight pout, his disappointment evident.

"I know, but I'm still not entirely comfortable with it," I explained softly.

"Okay, I understand," he conceded, though a hint of disappointment lingered in his tone.

Our relationship had begun five months earlier during our 12th-grade year. Both of us had harbored crushes on each other for a while, but I had initially turned down Ranbir's advances when he proposed during our 11th grade. I wasn't keen on diving into a relationship too quickly. Eventually, we agreed to keep our relationship under wraps and maintain a platonic front until we felt ready for more intimacy.

After a long and somewhat awkward study session in the library, we finally decided to call it a day. As we stepped out, I brought up the upcoming farewell party.

"Have you chosen your outfit for the farewell party in two days?" I asked tentatively, hoping to ease any tension.

"Yeah, I have. What about you?" Ranbir responded, lacking his usual enthusiasm.

"I have too," I replied, trying to bridge the gap that had subtly formed between us. However, before I could say anything else, Ranbir abruptly interrupted me.

"I have to go. My friends are waiting. Bye," he said hurriedly, not even turning back as he left.

His sudden departure left me feeling a bit hurt, as it was the first time he had bid me farewell without any affection or a second glance. Fast forward to the farewell party, and I found myself scanning the crowd for Ranbir, hoping to reconnect and perhaps mend any lingering discomfort.

"Mahira!" a familiar voice called out, pulling me out of my thoughts. It was Krupa Mehta, my best friend at school.

"You look stunning," I complimented her, admiring her choice of attire for the evening.

"Thank you! I thought you and Ranbir would come together. Why are you here separately, and why so late?" Krupa asked curiously.

"Family matters kept us tied up," I replied, trying to downplay any underlying tension.

Krupa's words hit me like a thunderbolt. "Mahira, Ranbir's already here."

"Wait, he's here? But... I thought he was at my family function with his parents," I stammered, trying to make sense of the conflicting information.

Krupa's expression mirrored my bewilderment. "That's strange. Maybe he left early and came here," she suggested, though her uncertainty only added to my growing unease.

Entering the lively venue, I scanned the crowd, hoping to catch a glimpse of Ranbir's familiar face. "He must be around here somewhere," I murmured to myself, my anxiety mounting with each passing second.

Engaging in small talk with friends felt like a distant chore, my mind preoccupied with questions and doubts. "Have you seen Ranbir?" I asked, unable to hide the worry in my voice.

"No, not yet. Maybe he's in the other room," a friend replied casually, oblivious to the turmoil gripping me.

Unable to bear the uncertainty any longer, I excused myself and stepped outside, the cool night air offering little solace to my racing thoughts. Nearby, from the cabin room, came the soft murmur of voices, laughter mingled with whispers—a stark contrast to the chaos within me.

My heart sank as I heard Ranbir's name, "Oh Ranbir! You are such a great kisser."

 "No, it can't be," I whispered, my mind refusing to accept what seemed inevitable.

The words caught in my throat as the door creaked open, revealing Ranbir's figure. "Ranbir..." I managed to utter, my voice barely audible above the din of emotions.

He looked at me, his expression a mix of surprise and guilt. "Mahira, I... I can explain," he stammered, his words failing to soothe the ache in my chest.

"What's there to explain?" I retorted a wave of anger and hurt washing over me. 

His silence spoke volumes, confirming my worst fears. "I trusted you," I continued, my voice trembling with emotion. "And this is how you repay me?"

The girl near him was Aisha Agarwal. According to me the girl who wanted attention from every boy. But I never thought Ranbir to be in that category.

"I'm sorry," he said, his voice barely above a whisper, but the apology felt hollow against the backdrop of betrayal.

Without another word, I turned away, my heart heavy with disappointment and betrayal, leaving behind a silence that echoed with shattered trust and unspoken pain.

The night after the farewell party was a blur of tears and unanswered questions. I returned home with a heavy heart, the weight of betrayal and disappointment crushing my spirit. 

The days following the farewell party were a blur of conflicting emotions for me. I couldn't shake off the hurt and betrayal I felt from Ranbir's actions. Finally, unable to contain my emotions any longer, I sought closure by confronting Ranbir about our relationship.

"Ranbir, we need to talk," I said, my voice trembling slightly as I stood in front of him, my eyes reflecting a mix of pain and determination.

Ranbir looked up, surprise flickering in his eyes before it was quickly replaced by a guarded expression. "What's on your mind, Mahira?" he asked, trying to keep his tone neutral.

"We can't continue like this. I thought we had something special, but your actions at the farewell party showed me otherwise," I explained, my voice steady despite the storm of emotions raging inside her.

Ranbir's eyes softened briefly before a defensive look crossed his face. "Mahira, I care about you. You know that," he started, but I interrupted him.

"If you cared about me, you wouldn't have acted the way you did with someone else at the party," I stated firmly, my gaze unwavering.

Ranbir sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I made a mistake, Mahira. I'm sorry if I hurt you," he admitted, his tone sincere.

"It's not just about the party, Ranbir. It's about trust and respect," I replied with sadness in my voice.

Ranbir nodded, understanding dawning in his eyes. "I understand. I'll give you the space you need," he said, his voice tinged with regret.

With a heavy heart, I nodded. "I think it's best for both of us," I replied barely a whisper.

In the whirlwind of my studies and the upheaval of my family's separation, I found myself in a new state, far from everything familiar. Determined to forge ahead, I delved into my studies, completing my graduation in this foreign yet promising city.

It was during these transformative college years that I encountered Karan whose presence sparked an unexpected attraction. Amidst the chaos of change and uncertainty, Karan became a captivating figure, adding a layer of intrigue and excitement to my journey.

Little did I know, he carried with him a heartache I had yet to discover.

End of the flashback...