The college faculty's birthday party whom Raghu and Reena both admired was a small yet vibrant gathering at a café near the college.
Raghu and Reena found themselves seated near each other, enjoying the warmth of the evening.
The light-hearted atmosphere, filled with laughter and music, eventually gave way to a quieter moment when Raghu and Reena began talking more personally.
With a soft smile, Reena began sharing her story.
"You know, getting into this BBA course wasn’t easy for me. It wasn’t just about passing exams or meeting criteria—it was about leaving everything familiar behind."
Raghu leaned in, curious and attentive.
"What do you mean? You seem so confident here in Pune. Was it tough?"
Reena nodded.
"Very tough. I had to summon a lot of courage to leave my hometown. My parents were supportive, but they were also so anxious. They worried about how I would manage all alone in a new city. Honestly, I was scared too. But I wanted this—I wanted to study, grow, and make something of myself. So, I took the leap."
Raghu’s eyes softened as he listened.
"And now? Do you still feel scared?"
Reena shook her head, a determined look in her eyes.
"Not anymore. Pune has taught me to be strong and independent. I’ve made friends, adjusted to this life, and learned so much. My plan is simple—do my best here, go back home after college, and make my parents proud. Whatever they plan for my future, I’ll be happy as long as they are happy."
Raghu smiled at her resolve.
"That’s really inspiring, Reena. I admire how you took that challenge head-on."
Reena looked at him, her curiosity piqued.
"What about you, Raghu? Why did you have to take a break from college?"
Raghu hesitated for a moment, his gaze dropping to his hands. Finally, he spoke, his voice filled with emotion.
"I had to go back to my hometown in South India to take care of my grandfather. He was 90 years old and suffered from Alzheimer’s. He needed someone, and I couldn’t turn away."
Reena’s expression softened as Raghu continued.
"He was everything to me. He taught me so much about life, values, and even academics when I was younger. Taking care of him in his last days was my way of giving back. I stayed with him, helped him through the difficult times, and made sure he was comfortable. Those two years were hard, but they were also incredibly meaningful."
Reena listened intently as Raghu’s tone became more passionate.
"One of his dreams was to finish writing a book about rural India. He was so close to completing it but couldn’t because of his health. So, after he passed away, I took up the task and finished the book for him. I even published it in his name. Seeing that dream come to life felt like honoring everything he stood for."
Reena’s eyes glistened as she spoke.
"That’s beautiful, Raghu. Your grandfather must have been so proud of you."
Raghu nodded, his voice steady but reflective.
"I hope so. Those two years weren’t just about taking care of him—they shaped me as a person. Once the book was published, I felt a sense of closure and decided to come back to college to finish what I’d left incomplete. And now, here I am—job in hand and happy to have a friend like you."
Reena smiled warmly.
"I’m happy too, Raghu. Thank you for sharing that. It makes me admire you even more."
The evening ended on a heartfelt note, with both Raghu and Reena feeling closer than ever.
Their shared vulnerabilities not only deepened their friendship but also made them realize how much strength and resilience they each carried within.
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