Never Have I Ever Spinn off Concept Season 1 (FAN MADE)

Chapter 10: Never Have I Ever Survived Freshman Year

As the spring semester came to a close, the air around Princeton buzzed with excitement for summer break. Devi's heart raced at the thought of all she had navigated during her freshman year—friendship struggles, family worries, and the emotional weight of change. The promise of a celebratory weekend in New York City with Ben felt like the perfect way to wrap it all up.

On a sunny Saturday morning, Devi packed her overnight bag, her stomach fluttering with anticipation. She glanced around her dorm room, taking in the memories that would linger long after she left. Soon, she would be heading to the bustling streets of NYC, where Ben awaited her.

Devi hopped into her car, eager to hit the road. As she drove through New Jersey, the familiar landscape felt comforting. With the music blasting and her windows down, she felt a sense of freedom she hadn't experienced in months.

Arriving at Ben's dorm at Columbia, she was greeted by his broad smile and warm embrace. "You made it! I can't believe it's already summer. We survived our first year!"

"Barely," Devi laughed, rolling her eyes. "But we did! And I'm so ready to celebrate."

They spent the day exploring the vibrant streets, visiting iconic landmarks, and indulging in delicious food from street vendors. The city felt alive, and for the first time in months, Devi allowed herself to fully embrace the moment, leaving her worries behind.

As the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, they made their way to a rooftop bar overlooking the skyline. Sitting together, sipping on mocktails, Devi couldn't help but feel grateful for the bond she and Ben had built.

"Thank you for being here for me this year," Devi said, her gaze locked on his. "I really don't know how I would have gotten through it without you."

Ben smiled back, his expression softening. "We make a good team, Devi. I'm proud of you for everything you've accomplished."

As they talked, the conversation turned to their hopes for the future. Devi felt a rush of excitement thinking about what lay ahead. "I want to keep pushing myself, you know? To not let fear hold me back. We should both do that."

"Definitely," Ben agreed. "There's so much we can achieve if we keep supporting each other."

Just as the atmosphere felt perfect, Devi's phone buzzed in her pocket, interrupting the moment. She pulled it out and her heart dropped as she saw her mom's name flashing on the screen. With a quick glance at Ben, she answered.

"Hey, Mom! What's up?" Devi asked, trying to keep her tone light.

"Devi, we need to talk. It's about Pati," her mom's voice trembled slightly, the concern evident.

Devi's heart raced, the carefree feeling from earlier evaporating instantly. "What happened? Is she okay?"

"Not exactly. Can you come home? I think you should be here," her mom replied, her voice heavy with emotion.

Devi felt a lump in her throat as she exchanged worried glances with Ben, who could sense the shift in her demeanor. "I'll be there as soon as I can," Devi replied, her heart sinking.

After ending the call, she turned to Ben, feeling the weight of anxiety settle in. "It's about Pati. My mom thinks I should come home."

Ben's expression shifted from concern to support. "Do you want me to come with you?"

Devi shook her head, feeling a mix of gratitude and uncertainty. "No, I think I need to handle this on my own."

"Just know I'm here for you, no matter what," Ben said, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

As they descended the stairs from the rooftop, Devi felt torn between the vibrant life in New York and the looming reality back home. The carefree weekend had turned into a harsh reminder of the challenges she still faced.

Later, as they made their way to the train station, the streets of New York felt different—lively yet distant. Devi's mind raced with thoughts of Pati, her health, and the weight of the decisions that lay ahead.

As she drove back to Princeton that evening, the city lights fading in her rearview mirror, Devi felt a mixture of fear and determination. She knew this was only the beginning, and the real challenges awaited her back home.

Little did she know that as she stepped back into her old world, the changes she would face in her relationships and her own identity would be more profound than she ever expected.