In Delhi,

The morning sun filtered softly through the sheer curtains of a cozy bedroom, casting golden patterns across the walls. A girl in her early twenties sat cross-legged on the bed, her attention buried in the pages of a thick fantasy novel. Her eyes sparkled with wonder, completely lost in a world far away from the noise of the real one.

Her name was Niranya Sharma—a curious soul from Banaras who had moved to Delhi for her higher studies. With a soft face, expressive brown eyes, and an aura of quiet elegance, she often looked like someone who had walked straight out of the very books she read.

Suddenly, the door burst open.

“Niru! Come out of that fictional world of yours!” called Megha, her best friend, standing with arms crossed and an exaggerated frown. “Let’s have breakfast before I lose my mind!”

Niranya looked up, blinking like she’d been pulled from a dream. “Just five minutes,” she pleaded, holding up a finger with a smile.

Megha groaned dramatically. “Five minutes will turn into forever, and then we’ll be late for college. I don’t want to hear the professor’s endless 'Why are you late? What traffic? Were you saving the world or what?' lecture today. Bla bla bla.”

Niranya chuckled softly, placing a bookmark in her novel. “Hehe, okay baba! Let’s go.”

Both girls made their way downstairs to the breakfast table. Niranya had been living at Megha’s house ever since she’d arrived in Delhi, still searching for a decent room to rent. From the moment they met on the first day of college, they'd clicked instantly. Megha, always bubbly and outspoken, had practically begged Niranya to stay with her until she found a place.

Though Niranya appreciated the warm hospitality of Megha’s family, she couldn’t help but feel like a guest in someone else’s home.

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At College

Hours passed in lecture halls filled with scribbled notes, lazy yawns, and the occasional glare from professors.

As they walked out of class, Megha stretched dramatically. “Ugh. That class was so boring,” she grumbled.

“It wasn’t that bad,” Niranya replied, amused by her friend’s over-the-top expressions.

“Bas bas tu rehne de, Behen,” Megha said, rolling her eyes. “I seriously don’t get how you stay interested in this stuff.”

“Maybe I actually listen,” Niranya teased, nudging her playfully.

“Let’s go to the canteen before I pass out.”

The two girls strolled over to the college canteen, their favorite hangout spot. They found an empty table and sat down, brushing off the tiredness of the day.

Niranya hesitated for a second before speaking. “Megha… please help me find a room.”

Megha’s expression shifted to one of concern. “Why? Are you facing any trouble at home?”

“No, not at all,” Niranya said quickly. “Your family is really kind. But I can’t stay there forever. I don’t want to overstay my welcome.”

Megha reached over and squeezed her hand. “You can stay as long as you want. Seriously. I like having you around.”

Niranya smiled warmly. “I know. But still, I’ll feel better once I find my own space.”

Before Megha could respond, a sudden voice startled them.

“Excuse me…”

They looked up to see a nervous-looking junior, kneeling awkwardly in front of Niranya with a red rose in hand.

Niranya blinked in surprise. “Um... who are you? What is all this?”

“S-sorry, sister,” the boy stammered. “It’s part of my ragging. My seniors told me to do this. I didn’t have a choice.” His eyes darted around fearfully.

Behind him, a smug voice called out. “That’s enough. Your work here is done.”

A tall senior stepped forward—his swagger unmissable. His designer watch, arrogant smirk, and entitled air made it clear he was someone used to power—and abusing it. He came from a wealthy family and had a reputation for tormenting juniors and flirting with girls just for amusement.

The boy scrambled away, mumbling apologies, while the senior’s gaze remained fixed on Niranya.

“Well,” he drawled, stepping closer, “didn’t mean to scare you. Just a bit of fun.”

Niranya stiffened in discomfort, her hands curling slightly under the table.

Before she could respond, Megha stepped in front of her like a shield.

“Don’t you feel ashamed, ragging juniors and pulling off these cheap stunts?” she snapped, glaring at him.

The senior chuckled darkly. “Relax. I was just having fun.”

“Stay away,” Megha growled, her voice protective.

“Chill, sweetheart.” He gave Niranya one last smirk, then turned and walked off with slow, deliberate steps.

Niranya exhaled a breath she didn’t know she was holding.

“Let’s go,” she whispered.

Megha nodded, grabbing her hand and pulling her away.

Behind them, the senior watched their retreating backs with a twisted grin.

“Interesting…” he murmured to himself. “Now it’ll be fun.”