Beyond the Books: A Love to Last

Breaking the News

The next day at school, Anushka felt a knot in her stomach. She wasn't nervous about Kabir—things between them felt natural, like they'd always belonged together. What made her anxious was Suhani. Suhani had been her best friend since day one at the new school, and the last thing she wanted to do was hurt her.

As she sat in the classroom, Suhani's voice snapped her out of her thoughts.

"You okay? You've been super quiet today," Suhani asked, sitting beside her with concern in her eyes.

Anushka took a deep breath. "Suhani, I need to talk to you about something important."

Suhani looked puzzled, but nodded. "Sure, what's up?"

"I... I need to be honest with you about something." Anushka's voice trembled slightly, and she clenched her hands in her lap. "It's about Kabir."

Suhani's expression shifted. "Kabir? What about him?"

Anushka bit her lip before continuing. "I think I've fallen for him. And I know... I know you like him too. But I had to tell you the truth because I don't want to keep anything from you."

The silence that followed was heavy. Suhani stared at Anushka, her emotions unreadable. Anushka braced herself for anger, disappointment, maybe even tears. But instead, Suhani sighed and gave a small smile.

"I kind of knew," Suhani said softly. "I mean, it was obvious that Kabir had feelings for you. I was just... hoping maybe it wasn't serious." She paused, her eyes turning thoughtful. "But if it's you, I'm okay with it."

Anushka blinked, surprised. "You're... okay with it?"

Suhani smiled, though there was a hint of sadness in her eyes. "You're my best friend. I would never want to come between you and someone who makes you happy. Besides, I want Kabir to be with someone who really cares about him, and I can see that you do."

Relief washed over Anushka like a wave. She reached out and hugged Suhani tightly. "Thank you. I didn't want to hurt you."

Suhani chuckled softly. "Don't worry about me. I'll be fine. Besides, I'm sure there are other guys who'll fall for my charm."

They both laughed, the tension easing away. For the first time in weeks, Anushka felt light, like the weight she had been carrying was finally lifted.