Season 1 Episode 1

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The bustling corridors of Crestwood College were alive with the chatter of students, laughter echoing against the walls, and the vibrant energy of youth filled the air. Groups of friends congregated near lockers, while others dashed to classes, their footsteps echoing in a hurried rhythm. Among the crowd, Arav moved with an effortless grace, his presence commanding attention without uttering a word. He was the kind of boy who seemed to carry an unspoken magnetism, drawing the eyes of all who passed him by. Dark, tousled hair framed his sharp features, and his smile—though rare—could light up the gloomiest of days.

Ishika, with her long, dark curls cascading around her shoulders and her bright, curious eyes, felt like a ghost in this vivid tapestry. She was warm-hearted, the kind of girl who could light up a room with her laughter, yet she often shied away from the limelight. As she walked through the corridor, her books hugged tightly against her chest, she couldn't shake the feeling of being watched.

"Ugh, I'm so stressed about this history project," she muttered under her breath, brushing a stray curl behind her ear. "Why did I ever think I could pull off a group project with Tara and Riya?"

Across the hall, Arav leaned against the wall, a casual stance that somehow radiated confidence. His intense gaze was locked on Ishika, studying her with an intensity that sent shivers down her spine. Yet there was a warmth in his eyes that made her feel special, even if she didn't fully understand why.

As Ishika shifted her books nervously, she caught the eyes of a couple of her classmates who glanced at Arav and then at her, whispering in hushed tones. A flush crept up her cheeks. What if they were talking about her? She quickly averted her gaze, focusing on the floor as she walked, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and trepidation.

"Hey, Ishika!" called out Tara, one of her friends, snapping her out of her reverie. Tara was vibrant and outspoken, always the first to break the ice in any situation. "Are you daydreaming again? You've got to stop being so lost in your thoughts."

Ishika laughed lightly, the sound a little too bright for her own liking. "Sorry, Tara! Just... thinking about that project."

Tara raised an eyebrow, clearly not convinced. "Sure, that's what they all say when they're crushing on someone. Who is it? Is it Arav?"

Ishika felt her cheeks heat up at the mention of his name. "What? No! I mean... I barely know him."

"Barely know him? Come on!" Tara exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "You've got to admit he's got that whole mysterious vibe going on. Besides, he's like the college heartthrob. You've got a chance if you just talk to him."

As they walked, Ishika stole a glance back at Arav. He stood there, still watching her, a slight smirk dancing on his lips as if he knew something she didn't. The warmth of his gaze made her heart race.

"Why does he always look at you?" Tara whispered, leaning closer. "It's like he's waiting for you to notice him."

Ishika brushed it off with a nervous laugh, though inside, she felt a flutter of hope mixed with a hint of discomfort. "Maybe he's just... looking past me."

"Yeah, right," Tara replied, rolling her eyes. "I mean, you're beautiful! If he's looking at anyone, it's definitely you. Just think about it: you have that sweet smile, and he seems to enjoy the view."

Ishika chuckled, shaking her head, but her heart skipped a beat at Tara's words. "I don't know, Tara. He's probably just being polite. He's got all those other girls fawning over him. Why would he ever look my way?"

Just then, Tara gestured toward Arav, who was now making his way through the throng of students. "Look! He's coming this way! You should say something."

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