My Whispers : A Journey of Self-Discovery"

Shopping day with Aditi

The following week, Aditi excitedly approached me in the college hallway, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Hey, Suhas! I was thinking, how about we go shopping together this weekend? I could really use your fashion advice for some new outfits!"

I felt a surge of excitement mixed with anxiety. Shopping with Aditi was an opportunity to spend more time with her, but I also knew it would push the boundaries of my secret life. Still, the prospect of being her fashion advisor was enticing. "Sure! I'd love to help!" I replied, trying to keep my voice steady.

"Great! I've got a whole list of things I want to check out," she said, beaming. "You know, sometimes I feel like I have a girlfriend when I'm with you. It's like you get what I'm looking for better than any of my friends!" Her words sent a thrill down my spine, a mix of flattery and fear.

As the weekend approached, I prepared myself for the shopping trip. I imagined all the outfits we would explore together and how I would need to navigate the conversation to keep my true self hidden. On Saturday morning, I met Aditi at the mall, feeling a flutter of nerves and excitement.

We started in a trendy clothing store, and immediately, Aditi began rifling through racks of dresses and tops, occasionally asking for my opinion. "What do you think of this one?" she asked, holding up a vibrant sundress.

"Definitely! The colors are perfect for summer," I replied, trying to sound as enthusiastic as I could while keeping my own preferences under wraps.

As we moved through the store, Aditi began picking out accessories, shoes, and even some makeup. I was astonished by how naturally the conversation flowed. "You should help me pick out some bangles! I've always thought they add such a fun touch to any outfit," she said, dragging me to the accessories section.

We spent hours trying on different pieces, and each time Aditi looked in the mirror, I felt a rush of happiness at her joy. Yet, I also felt the growing tension of keeping my secret safe.

Just as we were about to leave, Aditi grinned and pulled something from a nearby rack. "Oh! I found this cute unisex T-shirt that I think you'd look great in!" she said, holding it up to me. The shirt was pastel pink with a lovely floral print, and I felt a flush of excitement mixed with apprehension.

"It's unisex, so you can totally rock it, Suhas! It'll look great on you," she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I want you to have it!"

"Uh, thanks! But are you sure it's okay?" I stammered, feeling a wave of mixed emotions. The idea of wearing something so feminine thrilled me, yet the fear of being caught in something that didn't align with my public persona gnawed at me.

"Of course! I can totally see you wearing it. Just try it on!" she insisted, her enthusiasm contagious.

I couldn't resist her infectious excitement. "Okay, I'll try it!" I replied, a smile creeping onto my face. We headed to the fitting room, and as I slipped the shirt over my head, I felt a rush of joy. The soft fabric hugged my skin, and I couldn't help but admire how it flattered my form.

Aditi stepped outside the fitting room and exclaimed, "You look amazing! It's definitely a keeper!"

I blushed at her compliment, feeling a warmth in my chest. "Thanks! It's really comfortable," I said, peeking at myself in the mirror. The shirt made me feel more connected to the side of me that I had kept hidden for so long.

After purchasing the shirt, we decided to grab a bite to eat at a nearby café. As we sat sipping our drinks, Aditi looked at me thoughtfully. "You know, Suhas, I think it's awesome that you're so open to trying new things. Not everyone would be as comfortable with this kind of stuff," she said, a hint of admiration in her voice.