Best friends to Lovers - A tangled love story

Chapters 1 - The panic attack

As Aadhya walked home from school, she passed by the familiar Spice and Chutney restaurant, and her heart skipped a beat. Through the window, she spotted Anupama, her former stepmother, and a flood of memories came rushing back. The painful past she thought she'd left behind came crashing down on her, triggering a panic attack. Lost in the overwhelming flashbacks, she didn't notice how close she was to her own home, mere houses away. Her mind raced with the trauma she'd endured under Anupama's care, and her body responded with a surge of anxiety, making it hard for her to breathe.

Arjun was getting out of his house while engrossed in a phone call when his eyes fell on Aadhya, who was standing nearby, her body shaking and her face contorted in distress. He quickly realized she was having a panic attack and her condition was deteriorating rapidly. Without hesitation, Arjun immediately ended the call and rushed towards her, his concern for the stranger overriding all else. He approached her calmly and gently, speaking softly to try and calm her down, "Hey, it's okay, I'm here. Breathe, just breathe." He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, trying to offer comfort and stability in that moment of crisis.

As Aadhya's panic subsided, Arjun asked with concern, "Are you okay? That was a pretty intense attack." Aadhya nodded, still shaken but regaining composure. "I'm fine now, thanks to you. You helped me through that...I appreciate it." She took a deep breath, her eyes welling up with tears. "I should go now. My dad must be worried sick about me." Her voice trembled slightly as she prepared to leave, her gaze meeting Arjun's with a hint of gratitude.

Arjun replied, "You're most welcome, but I can't just let you go like that. You just had a panic attack, and I'm not sure you're okay to walk alone. Let me drop you off at your house, I'd feel better knowing you're safe." He spoke with genuine concern, his eyes locked on hers, making it clear that he wasn't going to take no for an answer. "Besides, your dad would probably appreciate knowing that you're okay. I can give you a ride, it's no trouble at all."

Aadhya nodded, her voice barely above a whisper, "Okay." She felt a sense of relief wash over her, grateful for Arjun's kindness and concern. His genuine smile and gentle demeanor put her at ease, and she trusted that he had only good intentions. Without another word, she accepted his offer, feeling a sense of comfort in his presence.

As they arrived at her doorstep, Aadhya turned to him with a smile and asked, "What's your name? I forgot to ask." Arjun's eyes crinkled at the corners as he replied, "I'm Arjun Bajwa." Aadhya's eyes lit up with a warm smile, "I'm Aadhya Kapadia. Thanks again, Arjun, for everything." Arjun nodded, his smile still in place, "Take care, Aadhya. Feel better soon." With a friendly wave, they bid each other goodbye, and Arjun turned to leave, feeling a sense of satisfaction at having helped someone in need. "Bye," they said in unison, before Aadhya disappeared into her home, feeling a little more at peace.

Continued…