Nandini and Manik were childhood best friends, but now that they are both teenagers, they have drifted apart, each with their own circle of friends who are as different as day and night.
One day, Aryaman, best friend of Manik, asked Nandini out, and she agreed. And one date led to another that, pretty soon, Aryaman and Nandini were now considered a couple.
Manik never thought anything about his childhood best friend going out with his new best friend. He was, in fact, glad that Aryaman found a real lady for a girlfriend. And anyway, he and Nandini no longer have anything in common, save for some childhood memories that were forgetten already.
It was during the prom night though that his opinion about the two changed. Nandini was dressed exquisitely in a lovely gown the color of the softest pink, her curly hair up with way tendrils cascading down the sides of her face and nape. It was then that Manik realized how much Nandini has grown. She is no longer the girl in pigtails with snoot running down her nose. She was this beautiful women that literally took his breath away. He resisted the ugly horns of jealousy as he saw Aryaman and Nandini dancing together, so Manik turned away.
From then on, Manik avoided the couple, in fear Aryaman might recognize what Manik is starting to feel for Nandini. But one night, Aryaman had a terrible accident that left him in a coma. They were told that Aryaman might never wake up again.
Manik stayed by his best friend's side, giving moral support to Aryaman and his family, but throughout the ordeal, he was battling his own battle as Nandini was always there, holding on to Aryaman's hand and crying helpless tears at the sad fate of her boyfriend. But his resolve not to get involved with her finally melted as he touched her shoulder comfortingly. She turned to Manik and wept his bitter tears, which promptly melted his heart and made him love her more. But, of course, he will never betray Aryaman's trust in him. He will be her friend, he said, just a friend.
The next day, Aryaman passed away. His family and friends cried for their loss, especially Nandini. Manik had no choice but to comfort Nandini during her grieving, who was very distraught. Their relationship went on like that for months, Manik being the shoulders she could cry on.
One day, Manik can no longer endure not telling her, so he gathered the courage to tell her how he feels.
Nandini listened, astonishment in her eyes then finally tenderness and remembrance.
"I have always loved you, Manik" she admitted, "But please wait, wait for me. I am not yet ready"
Manik, heart singing in joy, said , "I will wait!"
