𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞

Chapter 2: Rivals

Aanya hadn't expected to run into Meera again so soon, but it seemed like fate had other plans. As the semester progressed, it became painfully clear that they were not only in the same classes but also competing for the top spot academically. Aanya had always prided herself on her dedication to her studies. She wasn't the type to back down from a challenge, and the way Meera seemed to excel effortlessly, as if everything came naturally to her, only fueled Aanya's determination.

But their rivalry was more than just academic. Every time they crossed paths, there was a tension between them that neither could ignore. It started with the small things—Meera sitting in Aanya's preferred seat in class, the two of them always being the first to raise their hands during lectures. But it wasn't just competition; it felt personal. Their eyes would meet, and there was always that same spark, that unspoken energy that crackled in the air whenever they were near each other.

One afternoon, during a particularly intense lecture on political theory, the professor announced that they'd be pairing up for a group project. Aanya's stomach dropped when she heard her name called—paired with Meera. Of course, it had to be her.

The first meeting was a disaster. They couldn't agree on anything. Aanya wanted to take a methodical approach, laying out a detailed plan for their project, while Meera seemed more interested in throwing ideas around without any clear structure. Their personalities clashed at every turn. Aanya was reserved and cautious, while Meera was brash and spontaneous, her voice always loud, her opinions always strong.

"I don't understand why you have to make everything so difficult," Aanya finally snapped, her frustration bubbling over during one of their late-night study sessions in the library.

Meera leaned back in her chair, arms crossed over her chest, her eyes gleaming with amusement. "I'm not the one making it difficult. You're the one who's so uptight. Loosen up, Aanya. This isn't the end of the world."

Aanya glared at her, her hands clenched into fists under the table. "I'm not uptight. I just like things to be organized."

Meera smirked, leaning forward slightly, her voice dropping to a softer, almost teasing tone. "Maybe that's your problem. You're too afraid to let go. You're always holding back."

Aanya's breath caught in her throat. There was something in the way Meera looked at her in that moment, something that made her pulse quicken. For a second, she didn't know whether she wanted to punch Meera or kiss her. The thought startled her, and she quickly pushed it away, standing up abruptly.

"I'm done for the night," she muttered, grabbing her things and leaving before Meera could say another word. But even as she walked away, she couldn't shake the feeling that Meera was right. She was holding back—just not in the way Meera thought.