As the semester progressed, so did Aditya and Meera's friendship. They began spending more time together, especially in the library, where Aditya's playful nature often made Meera laugh, a sound he quickly grew fond of. Meera, in turn, helped Aditya with his studies, her patience and clarity making complex concepts easier for him to grasp.

One evening, during the college's annual festival, Aditya convinced meera to take a break from studying and join him for the cultural events. They strolled through the bustling festival grounds, the air filled with the aroma of street food and the sounds of laughter and music.

"Do you always study this much?" Aditya asked, teasingly nudging Meera as they walked past a row of colorful stalls.

Meera smiled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "I enjoy it. Plus, it keeps me on track. But I suppose a break now and then isn't so bad."

Aditya grinned. "I promise you won't regret it. Let's grab something to eat."

They made their way to a chaat stall, where Aditya insisted on ordering for both of them. As they sat down with their plates, he watched as Meera took her first bite, her eyes lighting up with delight.

"This is delicious!" Meera exclaimed, her usual reserve melting away.

"Told you," Aditya said with a wink. "There's more to life than books, you know."

Meera laughed. "You might be right about that. Thanks for dragging me out here."

They spent the evening enjoying performances, trying different food stalls, and laughing together. As they watched the fireworks light up the night sky, Aditya realized that his feelings for Meera had grown deeper than friendship.

A few days later, they found themselves sitting together in the campus garden, books open in front of them. Aditya glanced at Meera, who was deeply engrossed in her notes.

"Meera," he began, "I've been thinking... what do you want to do after we graduate?"

Meera looked up, surprised by the question. "I've always dreamed of becoming a professor. I love teaching and sharing knowledge. What about you?"

Aditya leaned back, contemplating. "I'm still figuring it out. Maybe something in marketing or media. I want to do something creative, something that excites me."

Meera nodded thoughtfully. "You'd be great at that. You have a way of bringing ideas to life."

Aditya smiled, appreciating her confidence in him. "Thanks. You know, I really enjoy spending time with you. You make me see things differently."

Meera blushed, feeling a warmth spread through her. "I enjoy our time together too, Aditya. You've brought a lot of fun into my life."

However, things weren't always smooth. One day, Aditya noticed Meera talking animatedly with another classmate, Sameer. A pang of jealousy hit him, surprising him with its intensity. He tried to brush it off, but when Meera mentioned Sameer's name during their study session, Aditya couldn't hide his irritation.

"What's up with you today?" Meera asked, noticing his mood.

"Nothing," Aditya muttered, avoiding her gaze.

Meera frowned. "Are you jealous?"

Aditya's eyes met hers, and he sighed. "Maybe I am. I can't help it."

Meera's expression softened. "There's no need to be. Sameer is just a friend."

Aditya relaxed, feeling a warmth spread through him at her words. Their bond was growing, and despite the occasional bumps, it was becoming something neither of them could ignore.

Later that evening, as they walked back to the hostel, Aditya's hand brushed against meera's. He hesitated for a moment, then gently took her hand in his. Meera looked up at him, her heart racing, but she didn't pull away. They walked in comfortable silence, the night air cool around them.

"Aditya," Meera finally said, her voice soft, "thank you for being so patient with me. I know I can be a bit reserved."

Aditya squeezed her hand. "I wouldn't have it any other way, Meera. You're worth it."

And as they continued their walk, hand in hand, they both knew that their relationship was evolving into something deeper, something special.

To be continue....... 💗