"From Rivals to Forever: A Journey of Love"

Chapter 33

Aditi's Perspective

Few months later

The morning light filtered softly through my bedroom window, but my nerves made it hard to appreciate its beauty. Today was the day—the CLAT results were about to be announced, and I had been up since 6 a.m., my heart racing with anticipation. I opened my laptop, the familiar website already pulled up, my fingers hovering over the keyboard.

In a surprising comfort, I had donned Kabir's hoodie, the soft fabric wrapping me in warmth and familiarity. It still smelled like him—a mix of his cologne and something uniquely Kabir. We were still just friends, but this hoodie felt like a shield against the anxiety swirling inside me.

I took a deep breath, trying to steady my racing heart. Just then, I heard a soft knock on my door.

"Aditi, are you okay?" It was my mom, her voice tinged with concern.

"I'm fine, Mom! Just... waiting," I called back, forcing a smile even though I could feel the butterflies in my stomach.

"Can I come in?" she asked gently.

"Sure," I replied, glancing back at the screen. My heart thudded harder as I watched the seconds tick by.

My mom entered, followed closely by Anaya, my little sister, clutching her stuffed bunny. "Are you still nervous, didi?" she asked, her big eyes searching mine.

"A little," I admitted, managing a small smile for her. "But it's going to be okay, I think."

"Why don't you take a deep breath?" Anaya suggested, sounding wise beyond her five years. "Like this." She exaggerated a big inhale, puffing her cheeks out before releasing a loud whoosh.

I chuckled at her antics, appreciating her innocent perspective. "Okay, okay! Let's do it together," I said, joining her in the exaggerated breathing.

My mom laughed softly, joining in. "See, Aditi? You have your little cheerleader here. Just remember, no matter what happens, we're proud of you."

"Yeah, di! You're the best!" Anaya exclaimed, bouncing on her toes. "And if you don't get the score you want, we can always have ice cream! Even if it's freezing outside, we'll have ice cream like we're in summer!" She spread her arms wide, her excitement radiating as if she were imagining a sunny beach day.

"Absolutely," my dad chimed in from the doorway, leaning against the frame with a warm smile. "Ice cream makes everything better. And remember, this is just one step in a much bigger journey."

"Exactly," my mom added, sitting beside me on the bed. "Your hard work and determination are what truly matter. The results don't define you."

"Okay," I murmured, feeling the warmth of their words seep into my anxious thoughts. "I guess I just wanted to do well... for everyone."

"We believe in you, Aditi," my dad said firmly, his eyes shining with confidence. "Just give yourself a moment to breathe."

I nodded, feeling slightly more grounded. The warmth of my family and the laughter from Anaya began to ease my nerves. "Thanks, you guys," I said, my voice steadier now. "I really appreciate it."

Anaya grinned, reaching up to give me a big hug. "You can do it, didi! And if you need more cheering, I'll be right here!"

I hugged her tightly, overwhelmed with love. "I know you will, little champ."

Just then, the moment we had been waiting for arrived—the notification popped up on my screen: CLAT Results are out! Click to view.

"OMG! It's here!" I screamed, my heart racing faster than ever. The realization hit me like a rush of adrenaline, and I quickly clapped a hand over my mouth to calm myself down. "Okay, okay. I need to breathe. Deep breaths, Aditi!"