Star-Crossed Yet Not Aligned

One Last Time

Subh's last semester exams loomed, but his mind wasn't on studies. He knew he could cram and pull off good marks, but his focus was elsewhere.

Six papers to go, six chances to see Aditi one last time.

Each day became a treasure hunt, his eyes scanning the campus for a glimpse of her. The excitement was palpable, his heart racing with anticipation.

As he walked through the corridors, Subh's gaze would lock onto Aditi, and time would freeze. He'd drink in the sight of her, his mind replaying the moment long after she disappeared from view.

Every day, Aditi wore a new dress, each one a masterpiece that left Subh breathless. The way the fabric hugged her curves, the colors that danced in her eyes – it was as if he was falling in love all over again.

But this was different.

This was goodbye.

Subh couldn't explain the emotions swirling within him. It was as if his heart had been revived, only to be broken once more.

He'd see her in the library, her hair tied up in a ponytail, focusing intently on her books. His eyes would linger on the gentle curve of her neck.

He'd spot her in the cafeteria, laughing with friends, her smile illuminating the room. His heart would skip a beat.

He'd catch glimpses of her in the hallways, her eyes flashing with determination. His soul would stir.

Subh realized that life was a paradox. You could be surrounded by thousands, yet your heart beats for one.

Aditi might have left him, but his love remained.

As the exam days ticked by, Subh's longing intensified. He knew these moments were fleeting, that soon Aditi would vanish from his life forever.

But he savored each glimpse, each smile, each fleeting moment.

After the exams it was time for farewell party and Subh stood amidst the sea of familiar faces, his eyes scanning the crowded farewell party. The music, laughter, and camera clicks created a chaotic symphony, but his focus remained fixed on one person.

Aditi.

She was laughing with her friends, her smile radiant, and her eyes sparkling. Subh's gaze lingered, drinking in the moment. He remembered the countless times they'd stood together, laughing and snapping pictures. The memories flooded his mind – their late-night conversations, study sessions, and silly jokes.

But that was before.

Before she walked away without explanation.
Before he felt betrayed and heartbroken.
Before he hated her.

Yet, something shifted within him. Perhaps it was the finality of their college days or the realization that he'd never see her again. Whatever the reason, Subh wanted to see her one last time.

As he wove through the crowd, he spotted Aditi beside her friends, posing for a group photo. Subh's eyes locked onto hers, but she didn't notice. He raised his own camera, capturing the moment from afar. Aditi's smile, her laughter, and the carefree atmosphere – all etched into his memory forever.

Subh's thoughts swirled:

Why did he still care?
Why did he want to see her?
Why couldn't he let go?

The party wound down, and the college gates beckoned. Subh lingered, delaying his departure. He needed to see her once more.

As he approached the gate, he spotted Aditi walking alone, her steps slowing as she glanced back at the college building. Their eyes met, and for an instant, time froze.

Subh's heart urged him to approach her, to speak the words he'd never voiced. To ask why she left, why she ignored him, and why she never looked back.

But the weight of his resentment and hurt held him back.

He hated her still, didn't he?

The questions swirled:

What would he say?
Would she even care?
Would it change anything?

Subh's mind racing, he stood frozen. Aditi's gaze lingered on his, a flicker of recognition, perhaps even sadness.

For a moment, they were back to where they once were – connected, yet disconnected.

The spell broke as Aditi turned away, disappearing into the crowd. Subh watched her go, his heart heavy.

With a deep breath, Subh turned away, leaving Aditi and their unresolved past behind.

As he walked out of the college gates, the sounds of laughter and farewell chants faded into the distance. Subh knew he'd never see Aditi again.

The realization hit him like a wave:

He'd never find closure.
He'd never understand.
He'd never forgive.

But perhaps, just perhaps, he could learn to let go.

Life moves on.

People leave.

Love remains.

To be continued