Ishq Vishq

Anamika and Vineet had been inseparable since childhood. Growing up together, they shared everything-mischief, secrets, and a bond that only deepened as they entered college. Now in their second year, they were part of a close-knit group of 15 boys, with Anamika being the only girl. Despite her being the odd one out, the group never treated her differently, and she kept up with their energy and antics with ease.

Valentine's Day was just around the corner, and as always, the group was buzzing with their annual tradition. They took it upon themselves to patrol the campus, hunting down couples trying to sneak off and celebrate the day, which was strictly prohibited by the college. The group took pride in "maintaining discipline," and by the end of each Valentine's Day, they would present a list of names to the teachers of those who had broken the rules.

This year was no different. As the group gathered under their usual tree, Anamika stood with her arms crossed, planning for the day.

"Alright, guys, it's time!" Anamika called out as they gathered, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Remember, this day belongs to us!"

The boys cheered, ready to uncover hidden lovers and ruin their romantic plans. Vineet, as always, was right beside her, grinning as they split into smaller teams.

"I take the library, you cover the sports complex," Vineet suggested.

"No way! The library is where the real action is," Anamika teased. "I'm not missing out on that."

Vineet raises his hand, surrendering to her for he doesn't want to upset her for that little thing.

With their mission set, they began their search, Anamika leading her group confidently into the quieter corners of campus. Her heart raced with the thrill of the chase, her eyes sharp as she scanned for any signs of couples trying to sneak a moment of privacy.

They didn't have to look long. In the library, at the far corner, sat a couple engrossed in whispered conversation, their hands intertwined.

"Gotcha!" Anamika whispered excitedly, nudging one of the boys next to her. They made their way over, stifling giggles as they approached the couple.

The pair looked up in alarm as Anamika cleared her throat dramatically. "Valentine's Day celebration, huh? You know it's against the rules," she said with mock seriousness.

The boy groaned, clearly embarrassed, but his girlfriend, bold and unfazed, shot back. "Oh, come on! What's the big deal? You all do this every year. And look at you," she pointed at Anamika, "you're here with Vineet all the time. You might as well be celebrating with him!"

Anamika froze, caught off guard by the comment. The other boys in her group snickered, clearly enjoying this unexpected twist.

"Yeah," the girl continued, crossing her arms. "I mean, what's the difference between us and you? We're just spending one day together, but you and Vineet? You're inseparable! How's that any different? If we're getting in trouble, shouldn't you?"

Anamika glanced at Vineet, who stood a few feet away, overhearing everything. His usual confident smile faltered, and he rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly. The group's laughter quieted as the tension grew, all eyes now on Anamika.

For a moment, she didn't know what to say. She had never thought about it like that before. Sure, she and Vineet were close-they always had been-but it had never felt like something romantic. Or had it? They spent almost every day together, shared everything, and the thought of being apart was almost unthinkable.

"Well..." Anamika started, trying to recover. "That's... different. Vineet and I are just friends."

The girl raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Really? You're telling me there's nothing more going on there? Because from where we're sitting, it doesn't look that way."