The world hadn't changed, not really. The school still bustled with noise, teachers still handed out assignments, and students still gossiped between periods. But for Karthik, everything felt different.
Maybe it was the way Ananya now looked at him when he entered the class. Or how her presence beside him no longer made him nervous—but calm, like he'd finally found home in someone.
Their confession hadn't changed the way they acted much. No dramatic handholding or public displays of affection. No grand declarations.
It was quieter than that.
More real.
Their friends started to notice in small ways. The way Karthik no longer avoided group activities when Ananya was there. Or how Ananya, known for her fiery comebacks, softened when speaking to Karthik.
Sanjay, who sat two benches away, nudged Karthik during lunch. "You're glowing, dude."
Karthik blinked. "What?"
"You smiled at the samosas."
Ananya, biting into hers, raised an eyebrow. "Maybe the samosas were just that good."
But Karthik met her eyes and smiled again.
That evening, as they sat beneath the old neem tree near the library, Ananya rested her head lightly on his shoulder. The sun was dipping behind the school building, painting everything gold.
"You still think you're unworthy?" she asked, her voice soft.
Karthik paused before answering. "Less than I used to. I guess… I'm learning to see myself the way you see me."
She turned her face up to him. "Good. Because I see someone worth fighting for."
The words lodged in his chest. He wanted to say something back, but it felt like anything he said wouldn't be enough.
So instead, he held her hand. Not as a statement.
But as a promise.
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End of Chapter 78