Shadows Of The Stumps

Chapter 29

As the SUV rolled down the winding mountain road, tension gave way to laughter, carried along with the upbeat rhythm of music blaring from the speakers. Ayan gripped the steering wheel with one hand while the other tapped in time with the bass. The playlist was a chaotic blend of old favorites and the latest hits, creating a lively atmosphere inside the vehicle.

"And we're gonna ride it, ride it!" Ayan sang loudly, throwing in exaggerated gestures for good measure.

Arya, seated next to him, grinned and joined in, her voice harmonizing, "Gonna ride it like a wave, hey!"

Their infectious energy quickly spread through the car. Meera leaned back in her seat, grinning at their antics, feeling the warmth of camaraderie wrap around her like a comforting embrace. After all the emotional farewells, this felt like home.

Arjun, the ever-sensible one, shot them a warning glance from the back seat. "You know the drill—this party ends at the academy gates. Keep it down, or we'll attract too much attention."

A mock chorus of groans erupted.

"Don't be a buzzkill, Arjun!" the trio shouted in unison, their voices blending into joyful rebellion.

Arjun rolled his eyes but couldn't suppress a smile. "I swear, you guys are a menace."

Meera nudged him from the side, smirking. "And you love it. Admit it."

As the car swerved around another sharp turn, the mountain landscape rushed by, mist curling along the road. Ayan's phone buzzed, breaking through the banter. He glanced at the screen, and his carefree expression shifted into seriousness.

"It's the academy." His voice was suddenly sharp. "Might be about updating us on security protocols."

Arjun tensed. "Put it on speaker."

Ayan tapped the screen, and a clipped, no-nonsense voice filled the car.

"Ayan, there's been unusual activity reported in your area. Proceed with caution—no detours. Stick to the main roads. Maintain low visibility."

The call ended abruptly, leaving a heavy silence in its wake.

Arya shot Ayan a worried look. "What do you think?"

Ayan tightened his grip on the wheel. "We stick to the plan and stay sharp."

Arjun nodded. "No stops until we reach the academy. Orders from the Colonel."

Meera caught Ayan's glance through the rearview mirror. He gave her a brief, reassuring blink, and she found herself exhaling, steadying the jittery feeling in her gut.

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A while later, the SUV's tires crunched against the gravel-lined driveway as they rolled through the towering gates of the Military Academy. A stone plaque above the arch proudly read: Discipline, Honor, Strength. The sun hung low, casting golden light over the neatly pruned trees and the familiar stone buildings.

"I can't believe we're actually back," Arya murmured, taking in the sight with a mix of disbelief and nostalgia.

"Feels good, though," Ayan admitted, adjusting his bag as they parked.

Arjun nudged Meera with his elbow. "Caught up with the energy yet?"

Meera smirked. "Right where I left it."

"Aha! The prodigals return!"

The booming voice of Colonel Mathur echoed through the courtyard. He stood with arms folded, his uniform crisp, eyes twinkling with a warmth he rarely allowed himself to show.