OUR PURPLE JOURNEY

Part 18

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The morning sun had barely risen when Nishita and the rest of the group decided to skip breakfast at home and instead hit the streets for some of India’s finest street food. BTS, fascinated by the vibrant colors and aromas filling the streets, followed along eagerly, their eyes wide with excitement.

**Nishita**: *"Alright guys, first stop—jalebi and fafda! You can’t start a proper day without these."*

They stopped at a small stall where a vendor was expertly dipping batter into hot oil, creating the iconic spiral shapes of jalebi. Right next to them, crispy fafda was being fried, ready to be served with chutney and kadhi.

**Jungkook**: *"What’s this?"* He pointed at the golden, sticky jalebis.

**Nishita**: *"Sweet, crunchy, and perfect to start your morning. Trust me."*

The group dug in, with BTS trying everything Nishita recommended. The combination of sweet and savory from the jalebi and fafda left them in awe.

**RM**: *"This is incredible. I’ve never tasted anything like this!"*

They moved from stall to stall, trying everything from *dhokla*, a soft and spongy fermented snack, to *kachori*, stuffed with spicy lentils, and of course, *pani puri*—a burst of flavor with every bite as they popped the crispy shells filled with tangy tamarind water into their mouths.

**Jimin**: *"This one’s a little too spicy!"* he exclaimed, fanning his mouth after biting into a particularly spicy kachori.

**Nishita** laughed. *"Don’t worry, we’ll get you something milder next."*

For lunch, they found themselves in a traditional *thali* restaurant, where they were served a platter overflowing with dishes—*dal*, *sabzi*, *roti*, *papad*, *achar*, and *chass*. BTS marveled at the variety, trying to keep up with the never-ending servings.

As they were enjoying their meal, Nishita felt a sudden pinch at her waist. Instinctively, she whirled around, her fist ready to strike, but stopped short when she saw Siddharth standing there, grinning mischievously.

**Nishita**: *"Siddharth!"* Her anger melted in an instant, and she threw her arms around him, hugging him tightly. *"You scared me! I thought you wouldn’t be back until later."*

**Siddharth**: *"Got my work done early, so I figured I’d join you guys for some food."*

Jungkook watched the interaction, his face darkening with jealousy. He didn’t like how comfortable Siddharth and Nishita were with each other, especially how Siddharth could so easily make her smile.

**V** leaned over to Jungkook, smirking. *"Someone looks a little green. You okay there, Jungkookie?"*

**Jungkook** grumbled, his eyes still on Siddharth and Nishita, who were now sitting together and sharing a plate of *pani puri*. Every time Siddharth fed Nishita a bite, Jungkook felt his heart sink a little lower.

**J-Hope**: *"Look at them, sharing food. How romantic!"* He nudged Jungkook, making it even worse.

After eating their fill, they spent the rest of the day exploring more street food stalls. From *bhaji pav* to *chaat* to *masala dosa*, every dish added a new layer to their food adventure. By the time the evening rolled around, they were all stuffed and ready to head home.

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Back at home, the group collapsed into the living room, still buzzing from the day’s events. But there were still wedding preparations to complete, and Nishita, ever diligent, got straight to work.

As everyone relaxed, Siddharth and Nishita made their way to the kitchen to prepare dinner. They were both known for their culinary skills, and tonight’s menu was a delicious spread of traditional Indian dishes—*paneer butter masala*, *aloo gobi*, *dal makhani*, *naan*, and a side of *jeera rice*. The kitchen filled with the aroma of rich spices as they worked in perfect harmony.

**Siddharth**: *"Remember when we used to cook together in college? We made such a mess, but the food always turned out great."*

**Nishita** laughed as she stirred the pot of dal. *"Yeah, and you always blamed me for the mess, even though you were the one spilling spices everywhere."*

**Siddharth** playfully bumped her shoulder. *"Hey, I was just adding more flavor!"*

The two of them shared a laugh, the sound filling the kitchen as they worked side by side. Jungkook, sitting at the dining table, watched them quietly, a sinking feeling in his chest. The ease with which they moved together in the kitchen, the way they joked and reminisced—it was hard for him to watch.

By the time dinner was ready, the spread looked mouthwatering. Everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig into the feast.

**Jin**: *"This looks amazing! You two are like a power cooking duo."*

**Suga**: *"I could get used to this."*

The conversation flowed as freely as the food, but Jungkook barely said a word, too distracted by the sight of Siddharth and Nishita working together so effortlessly.

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After dinner, they all gathered in the living hall again, chatting and reminiscing about the day’s adventures. Suddenly, Kavya shot up from her seat.

**Kavya**: *"Oh no! I completely forgot to send my chunni for pleating!"*

**Nishita**: *"Don’t worry, I’ll do it now."* She grabbed the fabric and got to work, quietly focusing on the task at hand.

From across the room, Jungkook watched her again, his heart aching. The way she moved, the way she handled every detail with care—it was clear she didn’t need him. But that didn’t stop him from wanting her all the same.

Late at night, Jungkook woke up, thirsty. As he padded his way to the kitchen for water, he noticed a light still on in the living room. There was Nishita, fast asleep on the couch, her head resting against her arm, having fallen asleep in the middle of her work.

Jungkook walked over quietly, gently scooping her up in his arms. He carried her to her room, tucking her in under the blankets. Leaning down, he kissed her forehead softly.

**Jungkook**: *"I wish I could turn back time, fix all the mistakes I made."* He sighed, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. *"You don’t need me anymore, but I’ll always be here for you. I’ll always love you."*

With one last look, he whispered, *"Sweet dreams, Nishita,"* before slipping quietly out of the room.