The Right Kind of Wrong

2. New Beginnings in Mumbai

As the train rattled into the bustling city of Mumbai, Savi pressed her face against the window, absorbing the vibrant chaos that surrounded her. The landscape shifted from the familiar greenery of her village to a sprawling urban jungle of skyscrapers, honking cars, and a sea of people. Her heart raced with a mix of excitement and anxiety, the vastness of the city both exhilarating and intimidating.

"Welcome to Mumbai," she whispered to herself, clutching her bag tightly. This was the first step in her journey toward freedom, and it felt surreal. She had dreamt of this moment for so long, yet the reality was far more overwhelming than she had anticipated.

The train screeched to a halt, and Savi took a deep breath, steeling herself. She had imagined arriving in Mumbai as a triumphant moment, but now she felt small and lost. The noise of voices, the rush of commuters, and the bright colors that filled the station enveloped her like a tidal wave.

"Okay, Savi, you can do this," she muttered, straightening her shoulders. "Just follow the plan."

Stepping off the train, she was instantly swept into the throng of people, her heart racing as she moved through the crowd. She clutched the strap of her bag tightly, reminding herself of her purpose—becoming an IAS officer. Her dreams had brought her here, but now, they felt discouraging.

As she stepped onto the platform, Savi scanned her surroundings, searching for the familiar face of Isha. She had communicated with her professor during the train ride, and Isha had promised to meet her at the station. But amidst the sea of strangers, Savi felt a flicker of doubt.

"Am I really ready for this?" she thought, the uncertainty gnawing at her. Just then, she spotted a woman waving excitedly, her eyes sparkling with warmth. It was Isha, her familiar figure standing out amidst the chaos.

"Savi!" Isha called out, rushing toward her with a radiant smile. "You made it!"

"Isha ma'am!" Savi exclaimed, relief flooding her as they embraced. Isha's warmth enveloped her, and for a moment, Savi felt safe.

"I'm so proud of you for taking this step," Isha said, pulling back to look Savi in the eyes. "I know it's overwhelming, but you're going to be just fine. Welcome to Mumbai!"

"Thank you, ma'am," Savi replied, her voice shaky. "It's a lot to take in."

Isha nodded understandingly. "Let's get you settled first. I've arranged a place for you to stay, and then we can talk about your college plans."

"Place to stay?" Savi asked, her curiosity piqued.

"Yes! It's a small apartment near my office. You'll have your own room, and it's close to the college you'll be applying to," Isha explained, guiding Savi through the crowd toward the exit.

As they walked, Savi couldn't help but gaze at the vibrant city around her. The streets were alive with energy, street vendors calling out to customers, people bargaining over prices, and children laughing as they played in the alleys. It was a stark contrast to the quiet life she had left behind.

"I can't believe how big this place is," Savi said, her eyes wide as they stepped outside into the bustling streets.

"It can be a bit discouraging at first," Isha replied, her voice soothing. "But you'll get used to it. Mumbai has a way of becoming home if you let it."

Savi felt a mixture of fear and hope swell within her. "I want to make it home. I want to pursue my dreams."

"That's the spirit!" Isha encouraged, beaming at her. "And remember, you're not alone. I'm here to help you."

As they stepped onto a busy street, Savi felt her heart race. The chaos, the noise, and the hurried pace of life overwhelmed her senses. "How do I even begin to navigate all of this?" she asked, glancing up at Isha, who was watching her with kindness.

"You'll learn," Isha replied. "It takes time, but I'll guide you. The first thing is to focus on your studies. The IAS entrance exam is highly competitive, but with hard work and determination, you can make it."

"I know," Savi said, her voice filled with determination. "But I've heard it's really hard to get into a good college here."

Isha nodded. "It is. But you have a strong foundation. I'll help you with the application process, and we can prepare for the entrance exams together."

Savi felt a surge of hope at Isha's words. "That would mean so much to me, Ma'am."

"Of course! You're my responsibility now," Isha said, her tone playful. "Now, let's get you settled in."

As they walked, Savi couldn't help but admire the vibrant street art, the food stalls, and the laughter that surrounded them. The energy was intoxicating, but there was also a sense of vulnerability that gnawed at her. "What if I fail?" she thought, a knot tightening in her stomach.

"Here we are," Isha said, stopping in front of a modest building. It was a simple apartment complex, but Savi could see the charm in it—the colorful flowers blooming by the entrance and the lively chatter of neighbors.

"It's not much, but it's cozy," Isha assured her as they climbed the stairs to the second floor.

Savi entered the apartment and felt a wave of relief wash over her. The space was small but bright, with sunlight streaming through the windows. "I love it!" she exclaimed, setting her bag down.

"I knew you would," Isha replied with a smile. "You'll have your own room over here." She gestured to a small door on the left. "Make yourself at home."

"Thank you, Isha ma'am," Savi said, her heart swelling with gratitude. "This means so much to me."

"I'm just glad you're here," Isha replied warmly. "Now, let's sit and talk about what's next."

They settled on the couch, and Savi felt her nerves bubbling to the surface. "What if I can't keep up with everyone else? I've heard so many stories about how intense the competition is," she admitted.

"Everyone has their own journey, Savi," Isha said gently. "You've already shown incredible strength by making it here. That's more than most people do. The important thing is to stay focused on your goals and not compare yourself to others."

Savi nodded, trying to absorb Isha's wisdom. "I'll do my best. I just want to make my parents proud."

"I know you will," Isha said, her voice filled with encouragement. "Let's start with your study plan and the entrance exams. I'll help you with the material and provide resources."

Savi felt a flicker of determination ignite within her. "I'm ready. I want this more than anything."

"Good," Isha smiled, her eyes shining with pride. "Let's make a plan, and we'll tackle it together."

As the two women discussed the road ahead, Savi felt the weight of her fears slowly lift. The chaos of Mumbai no longer felt like an overwhelming storm; instead, it was a bustling rhythm she could learn to dance to. She was finally free from Bhavani's grasp, and now, she had the chance to create the life she wanted.

That evening, Savi settled into her new room, the walls painted in a soft hue, and the bed adorned with a simple quilt. She stared at the ceiling, a sense of peace washing over her. This was her new beginning—a chance to pursue her dreams, make friends, and find herself in a city that never slept.

As she lay in bed, she thought about all the challenges that lay ahead. She had to study hard, adjust to life in a big city, and prepare for the IAS entrance exam. But for the first time in a long while, she felt hopeful.

"I can do this," she whispered to herself, determination shining in her eyes. "I will become an IAS officer."

With that thought, she closed her eyes, embracing the unknown future that awaited her, ready to face whatever challenges came her way.

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The 2nd Chapter guys!!

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