Star-Crossed Yet Not Aligned

The First Date Jitters

Our daily texts turned into an essential part of my routine.

Aditi's morning "Good morning, sunshine!" and night "Sweet dreams" became my comfort.

For 5-6 months, we shared our dreams, fears, and laughter.

College campus transformed into our playground.

Bunking classes, stealing glances, and whispered conversations in the canteen became our norm.

Life felt alive with Aditi by my side.

Every moment with her was precious.

I adored the way she breathed, the way her eyes sparkled.

Yash, my friend, would often tease:

"Do dil mil rahe hai, magar Chupke Chupke" (Two hearts are meeting, but secretly)

He'd sing, grinning, whenever he saw us together.

Aditi would blush, and I'd chuckle.

Our connection deepened.

One day, as we sat together in the library:

Aditi: Hey, want to grab dinner outside college this weekend?

Subh: Heart yes!

My heart skipped a beat.

Was this our first official date?

The First Date Nightmare - What to Wear?

Aditi's dinner invitation left me ecstatic but anxious.

I'd never been on a date before.

Growing up in a remote area, dating wasn't a norm.

My parents' conservative views had always held me back.

Now, faced with the daunting task of dressing up, I panicked.

What to wear?

I stood in front of my closet, clueless.

Aman, my friend, chuckled at my distress.

"Dude, wear something casual, not too fancy."

"Like what?" I pressed.

"Jeans and a nice shirt. And, Subh, relax!"

I took a deep breath and chose a simple outfit.

Next hurdle: navigating the city.

As a college student, my life revolved around studies, cooking, and campus.

Exploring the city was a rare luxury.

Aditi instructed me to meet her at BHU Gate, Lanka.

I arrived early, taking in the vibrant scene:

Street food stalls wafting aromas of spicy chaat and kebabs.

Students laughing and chatting outside cafes.

Cycle-rickshaws and autos zooming past.

I spotted Aditi, radiant in a yellow sundress.

"Hey," she said, smiling.

"Hey," I replied, feeling shy.

As we walked towards Roma's Cafe, I felt a surge of excitement.

But, my rural upbringing left me unprepared for the chaotic city streets.

The road stretched before us, overflowing with vehicles.