The Ethereal Love

CHAPTER 1

AUTHOR POV

Hrida nervously clutched her father's hand as they walked into her new school. It was her first day in fifth grade, and she was both excited and anxious about making new friends. As they reached her classroom, Hrida's father spotted an old friend of his waiting outside with his son.

"Hey, Ranvijay! Long time no see!" Hrida's father exclaimed, greeting his friend with a warm hug.

Ranvijay smiled broadly and returned the hug. "I know, it's been years! How have you been?"

As they caught up with each other, Prakash Raichand mentioned that his daughter had just started in fifth grade. Ranvijay's eyes lit up with excitement.

"Wow, my son Avyansh is in fifth grade too! What a coincidence!" he exclaimed.

Hrida and the young boy exchanged curious glances, both feeling a sense of apprehension mixed with excitement at the prospect of making a new friend.

Mr. Raichand, ever the social butterfly, wasted no time in introducing the two children to each other.

"Hrida, this is Avyansh Malhotra," he said with a smile. "He will be in your class in fifth grade"

Hrida smiled warmly at Avyansh, extending her hand in a gesture of friendship. "Nice to meet you, Avyansh. I'm Hrida Raichand."

Avyansh returned her smile, feeling a twinge of nervousness vanish as he shook her hand. "I'm Avyansh Malhotra," he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of excitement.

As the two children chatted, their fathers watched with fond amusement. It was heartwarming to see their children bonding so quickly, as if they had known each other for years.

Mr. Raichand and Mr. Malhotra exchanged knowing looks, silently acknowledging the special connection that was forming between their children.

The two kids stood there for a moment, unsure of what to say next. It was always awkward meeting someone new, especially on the first day of school.

They both entered in the classroom and Avyansh suggested her to sit with him. She knew that there was only him whom she knew so she sat beside him.

"So, Hrida, do you like science?" Avyansh blurted out, trying to break the silence.

Hrida chuckled, "Yeah, I guess. I don't hate it at least. What about you?"

Hrida shrugged, "Eh, it's alright. I prefer art more, to be honest."

And just like that, the conversation started flowing. They discussed their favorite subjects, hobbies, and even shared a few embarrassing stories from their summer vacations.

Throughout the day, Hrida and Avyansh found themselves in the same classes, laughing at the same jokes, and even helping each other out with math problems. It was as if they had been friends for years, not just for a day.

During lunchtime, Hrida and Avyansh sat together, sharing their food and discussing their plans for the upcoming school year.

As the final bell rang, signaling the end of another school day, Hrida and Avyansh gathered their belongings and made their way to the school gate.

Waiting there for them was Mr. Raichand and Mr. Malhotra had come to pick them up. Prakash Raichand had brought along a bottle of fresh orange juice as a treat for his daughter.

Hrida, a shy and introverted girl, was surprised by her father's gesture. She usually took a while to warm up to new people and make friends, but there was something about Avyansh that had instantly clicked with her.