Chaos and Cupid

6.Campaign Clash

Vedika stepped through the university gates, her backpack slung over her shoulder. She had barely taken a few steps when a enthusiastic student thrust a colorful flyer into her hands.

"Vote for Aarav - Your Voice, Your Leader!" the flyer read.

Vedika's eyes rolled in frustration. Election fever was already spreading.

She crumpled the flyer, about to toss it when a voice behind her said, "Oh, I see you're interested."

Vedika turned to face Aarav himself, his smile dripping with confidence.

"Not exactly," Vedika said dryly, tearing the flyer in half.

Aarav's eyes narrowed, his smile never wavering. "Guess I won't count on your vote."

Vedika shrugged. "You shouldn't count on anyone's until you earn it."

Aarav chuckled. "Spoken like a true skeptic."

Vedika walked away, leaving Aarav standing amidst his campaign materials.

Vedika walked into her first class, Sociology 101, scanning the room for an empty seat. She spotted Saanvi waving at her from the back row.

As Vedika settled in, Saanvi whispered, "What's wrong? You look annoyed."

Vedika leaned in. "Aarav's campaign nonsense. Already shoving flyers in people's faces."

Saanvi raised an eyebrow. "That's our charismatic leader for you."

Professor Patel began the lecture, discussing social structures and institutions. Vedika took diligent notes, engaging in the discussion.

During the break, Saanvi asked, "Want to grab coffee?"

Vedika nodded. "Need to clear my head."

As they stepped out, Aviraj approached, his eyes locked onto Vedika. "Mind if I join?"

Saanvi smiled. "Not at all."

The three of them walked to the cafeteria, Aviraj effortlessly joining their conversation.

Vedika sipped her coffee, her voice low. "Aarav's campaign promises are laughable. Free lunches? Please."

Aviraj nodded. "He's buying votes, not leading."

Saanvi listened intently, her expression neutral.

Vedika continued, "And his speeches are so rehearsed. He's got no substance."

Aviraj smiled wryly. "At least he's consistent."

Just then, Aarav walked into the cafeteria, his eyes scanning the room. His gaze locked onto Vedika, his smile twisting.

"What's this I hear? Criticizing my leadership?" Aarav sneered.

Vedika's eyes flashed. "You call bribery leadership?"

Aarav stepped closer, his voice rising. "At least I'm doing something, not just complaining."

Aviraj intervened, his tone calm. "Aarav, that's not fair. Vedika has a right to her opinion."

Aarav scoffed. "And you're just echoing her nonsense, Aviraj?"

Vedika stood, her voice firm. "I don't need anyone to speak for me. You're manipulating people, Aarav."

Aarav's face reddened. "How dare you!"

The argument escalated, voices rising. Aviraj attempted to mediate, but Aarav's anger boiled over.

"You think you're so perfect, Vedika?" Aarav spat.

Vedika's eyes blazed. "I'm just calling out your emptiness. You're all charm, no depth."