TRUE LOVE NEVER GIVES UP

Chapter-32: First Day of College

Manik sat in his room, looking at his phone. He dialed Nandini's number and waited for her to pick up. After a few rings, her cheerful voice came through.

"Hey, Manik! How was your day?" she asked, her excitement evident.

"It was good. Busy but productive," Manik replied, leaning back against his headboard. "How about you?"

"Oh, same old. Work was hectic as usual, but I kept thinking about you coming back and how we finally got to meet today," Nandini said, her voice filled with happiness.

Manik smiled. "Yeah, meeting you today was the best part of my day. But guess what? I found out something interesting at work."

Nandini's curiosity was piqued. "What is it?"

Manik took a deep breath. "So, the company we're collaborating with is Sehgal Industries, and their owner is Mahir Sehgal. Does that name ring a bell?"

There was a moment of silence on the other end before Nandini's shocked voice came through. "Mahir Sehgal? Pops! Oh my God, Manik, this is unbelievable!"

"I know, right? I was shocked too when I saw him today," Manik said, chuckling. "I guess it really is a small world."

Nandini was quiet for a moment, processing the information. "Manik, there's something I need to tell you."

Manik's tone became serious. "What is it, Nandini?"

She took a deep breath. "I've decided that I'm going to tell Navya about us. About our relationship."

Manik's heart skipped a beat. "Are you sure about this? I mean, we've been keeping this a secret for so long. Are you ready for that?"

Nandini's voice was firm but gentle. "Yes, Manik. We have to tell everyone one day, and I think it's time we start with our friends. Navya is my soul sister, and she deserves to know. Plus, Mukti and Alya are here, so we can tell them together."

Manik was silent for a moment, processing her words. "You're right, Nandini. We should tell them. I'll be there with you every step of the way."

Nandini felt a wave of relief wash over her. "Thank you, Manik. I know it won't be easy, but we can do this together."

Manik's voice softened. "Of course, we can. Now, let's talk about something happier. Your birthday is this week, remember? What does my birthday girl want on her special day?"

Nandini smiled, though Manik couldn't see it. "I just want everyone to accept our relationship, Manik. Nothing else."

Manik's heart ached at her words. "I promise, Nandini. We'll make it happen. But I also want to do something special for you. How about we go out for a nice dinner? Just the two of us?"

Nandini's smile widened. "I'd love that. You always know how to make me feel special."

Manik's voice was filled with affection. "That's because you are special, Nandini. You mean the world to me."

They talked for a while longer, sharing sweet and loving words, consoling each other, and planning how they would break the news to their friends. Eventually, it was time to say goodnight.

"Love you, Manik," Nandini said softly.

"Love you too, baby. Goodnight," Manik replied, feeling a sense of peace wash over him.

They hung up, both feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness about the days to come. But they knew that as long as they were together, they could face anything.

Nandini sat on her bed, a smile playing on her lips as she remembered the first day of college. She had been so excited and nervous, waiting for Manik in the canteen as they had planned. Her heart raced at the memory of how things had unfolded.