First Spark: A story of my first crush

Bidding Goodbye

That gesture lingered in my mind, replaying over and over like a broken record. It was the kind of moment that stays with you, etched into your memory forever. Yet, despite its significance, it felt like time was slipping away, pulling me further from the reality I desperately wanted to hold onto.

As we gathered to bid farewell to our friends, the weight of impending goodbyes hung heavy in the air. Nidhi and Aarav were chatting animatedly nearby, their laughter a bittersweet melody amidst the melancholy of parting ways.

Then, just as I thought the day couldn't hold any more surprises, Aarav approached me. His expression was earnest, eyes reflecting a mix of determination and vulnerability.

"Shriya, can we talk?" he asked, his voice soft yet filled with an urgency that caught me off guard.

I hesitated, unsure of what to expect. But before I could respond, he continued, his words tumbling out in a rush.

"I know we're all going our separate ways, could we meet? Just for a little while?" Aarav's gaze was intense, a silent plea echoing in his eyes.

My heart pounded in my chest, anticipation mingling with apprehension. 

I paused, considering his request. Tomorrow was supposed to be spent with Ishika, soaking in every moment before our inevitable separation. But Aarav's sincerity tugged at my heartstrings, stirring something within me that I couldn't quite name.

"I'm sorry, Aarav," I replied, my voice tinged with regret. "I promised Ishika I'd spend the day with her. It's... it's important to me."

A flicker of disappointment crossed Aarav's features, but he quickly masked it with a smile, his demeanor shifting to one of understanding.

"Of course," he said, his tone gentle yet tinged with sadness. "I understand. Ishika is lucky to have a friend like you."

As he walked away, a pang of guilt gnawed at my conscience.