If the Worlds Collide?

Whispers of the Heart

Sona strolled into the museum, her eyes widening as she took in the majestic grandeur of the place. The architecture blended old-world charm with modern design, the high arches and marble floors polished to a mirror-like sheen. Artifacts from civilizations past and paintings that seemed to capture entire lifetimes hung on every wall, bathed in soft golden light that felt almost ethereal. The air was thick with history, whispers of lives lived and lost, stories etched into every crevice and corner.

Geesha, already waiting by an ancient tapestry, waved at her with a grin, her casual jeans and T-shirt a sharp contrast to the museum's elegance. Sona couldn't help but laugh at how they looked together, like two carefree spirits wandering through a world that took itself too seriously.

"About time, Miss Universe," Geesha teased, nudging Sona with her elbow. "Can't believe you dragged me into a museum on a Saturday. What's next, a history lecture?"

Sona rolled her eyes, nudging her right back. "Listen, if you can't appreciate art, then you don't deserve the coffee that comes afterward."

Geesha laughed, leaning in. "Alright, alright, I'll be good. Now spill! I know there's a reason why we're here, away from all ears. You look like you're about to burst."

Sona took a deep breath, glancing around to make sure they were alone in their corner. Her voice softened as she started explaining everything to Geesha—the impossible visions, the discovery of Nivara, and finally, Sid. The words spilled out like a river finding its course, flowing into the vastness of Geesha's astonished gaze. Sona described Nivara in detail, from the AI-controlled wonders to the futuristic landscapes that had seemed only possible in her wildest dreams.

"So... let me get this straight," Geesha interrupted, her brows raised skeptically. "This Sid guy you've been talking about isn't from Earth? Like, he's from a parallel universe? And Nivara is... real?"

Sona nodded, her expression earnest. "I know it sounds insane. Honestly, even I thought it was a dream, just figments of my imagination. But it's all real, Gee. Nivara exists, and Sid... he's from there. He's lived a whole life in that world, and I've somehow been connected to it without even knowing."

Geesha gave her a long look, absorbing every word. Her eyes narrowed, lips pressed together in thought. "You know, Sona, I've listened to you talk about the universe and stars for years, but this—this is a whole new level of crazy." She laughed, though her eyes softened with understanding. "But it's you. I trust you. If you say Nivara exists, then, who am I to doubt it?"

Sona's eyes brightened, relief flooding through her. "Thank you, Geesha. I know it's hard to believe, but I just needed someone who'd hear me out."

Geesha shrugged, grinning. "Of course, that's what best friends are for. Though I've gotta say, this mysterious Sid guy sounds intriguing. You've been low-key obsessed with him since you joined ISRO. And now he's not only real but from another universe? Sona, you couldn't have picked someone more complicated if you tried."

Sona chuckled, her cheeks flushing. "It's just... he's different. Every time I think about him, there's this strange feeling, like he's always been part of my life."

"Oh, you're done for," Geesha teased, elbowing Sona with a wicked grin. "Sounds like you're totally in love. And here I was, thinking you'd end up with some regular guy who likes long walks and coffee dates. Instead, you've got a guy from another universe!"

Sona laughed, shaking her head. "Trust me, even I didn't see this coming. Half the time, I still can't believe it. But there's just something about him."

They walked deeper into the museum, their laughter echoing off the high ceilings as they chatted, free and easy, as only close friends could. They lingered by an ancient artifact—a bronze sculpture from a forgotten era. Sona admired it, thinking of how similar the two worlds were, yet so different in essence.