Priya entered her room, her footsteps hesitant as she made her way to the comforting embrace of her bed. She lowered herself onto the soft mattress, feeling its familiar contours gently enveloping her. As she lay there, her mind drifted to a poignant memory, one that shimmered in the depths of her consciousness like a cherished keepsake.

Flashback.

As the rain persisted, leaving the school premises deserted, Ram and Priya lingered, hopeful for a break in the weather. Observing Priya's lack of an umbrella, Ram hesitated briefly before approaching her. "Is it okay if we share an umbrella?" he asked. Priya met his gaze and nodded in agreement. They set off together, the sound of raindrops pattering against the sheltering canopy of the umbrella. Suddenly, a crack of thunder resounded, startling Priya, who instinctively clutched Ram's hand in fear. Reacting swiftly, Ram encircled his arm around her, guiding her to a nearby sheltered alcove, shielding her from the downpour and the turmoil of the storm.

The rain enveloped them, leaving them both partially drenched, as they stood side by side in the sheltered alcove. In a moment that seemed to suspend time, their eyes locked, conveying unspoken emotions that hung heavy in the charged atmosphere. As if drawn together by an invisible force, they leaned in, their lips meeting in a tender, rain-kissed embrace, the world around them fading into insignificance as they shared an intimate moment, a fusion of emotions and unspoken desires finding solace in the downpour's gentle cadence.

Her heart skipped a beat, a subtle tremor coursing through her entire being as Ram's lips gently met hers in the tender embrace of the rain. The world around them seemed to recede into the background, leaving only the sensation of his touch and the electric current of their shared intimacy, heightening the intensity of the moment. In that ephemeral yet profound instant, the rhythm of the rain blended with the fluttering of her heart, etching a memory that would linger long after the rain had subsided.

Flashback ends..

Her heart in disarray, Priya slowly rose from her bed, her fingertips pressing lightly against her temple as she grappled with the overwhelming surge of emotion. Whispering to herself in frustration, she acknowledged the tangled mess within her, recognizing the haunting familiarity of a long-lost love or perhaps merely an infatuation rekindled. However, the weight of her commitment to Ved loomed heavy in her thoughts, a reminder that such musings were best left unexplored, relegated to the confines of a distant memory that should never breach the boundaries of her present reality.

As the morning sunlight gently filtered through the curtains, casting a soft, golden hue across the room, Priya stirred from her slumber, drawn back to consciousness by the insistent melody of her ringing phone. With a sleepy yet eager sense of anticipation, she swiftly reached for her phone, feeling a rush of excitement at the sight of Ved's name illuminating the screen. Hastily gathering her tousled hair into a hasty bun, she adjusted her posture, ready to engage in the virtual embrace of his familiar presence. With a faint smile gracing her lips, she accepted the call,

Priya: *yawning* Hello?

Ved: Hey there! Good morning! Sorry to wake you up.

Priya: Oh, it's okay. I was just about to get up anyway. How's everything?

Ved: Not bad. I miss you, though. I'll be back in two days.

Priya: *sighs* Finally! What should I do in these 48 hours?

Ved: Why not explore the countryside of Paris? It might be a nice change of scenery.

Priya: Hmm, that sounds like a plan. I could use a little adventure.and some ideas for my paintings

Ved: Exactly! You could visit those quaint villages, take in the fresh air, and enjoy some peaceful time alone.

Priya: That does sound lovely. I will make a plan soon

Ved: If you do send me pictures okay and take care.

Priya: You too. Safe travels!

And they hung up the call she heard a bang on the door As Priya swung open the door, the sight of Alisha decked out in sleek athletic wear, sporting a cap and clutching a set of golf clubs, piqued her interest. "Golfing?" Priya inquired, her curiosity evident in her furrowed brow. Alisha beamed, her eyes sparkling with anticipation as she described the intricacies of the game and the thrill of conquering each challenging course. Despite Alisha's enthusiastic invitation, Priya politely declined, admitting, "I'm not familiar with golf at all,and I have already made my plans to visit the countryside

Alisha's concern for Priya's safety bubbled to the surface as she contemplated her friend's plan to explore the area alone. Standing at the doorway, she gently voiced her apprehension, emphasizing the potential risks of navigating unfamiliar terrain without a guide. Alisha's words were laced with a protective air, stemming from her genuine care for Priya's well-being. As she expressed her worry about Priya's lack of familiarity with the area and her inability to drive, a subtle flicker of anxiety crossed her features.

Alisha: You know, why don't you take Ram with you? He knows Paris inside out, and he could make sure you're safe.

Priya: No, no, it's fine. I don't want to bother him. I'll figure things out on my own.

Alisha: But it's a big city, and you've never been there before. It might be overwhelming.

Priya: I appreciate your concern, really. But I'm up for the challenge. I'll rely on maps and public transport. It'll be an adventure!

Alisha: Well, just be careful, okay? And don't hesitate to call if you need anything.

Priya: Of course, I'll keep you updated. Don't worry about me. I've got this.

Alisha: Alright then. Take care and have an amazing time exploring!

Priya: Thanks, Alisha. I'll catch up with you soon.

Closing the door behind her, Priya exhaled deeply, allowing the weight of her thoughts to settle. Alisha's well-intentioned suggestion had ignited a familiar unease within her, evoking memories she had long sought to bury. With a determined resolve, she silently vowed to maintain a distance from Ram, wary of the emotions his presence tended to evoke. Navigating the labyrinth of her conflicted feelings, she steeled herself with an air of resilience, focusing her attention on the present moment. With measured movements, she proceeded to get ready.

Emerging onto the bustling streets, Priya was greeted by the vibrant pulse of the city as it thrummed with life. With her essentials in tow, she embarked on her mission, her determined stride weaving through the bustling crowds. As she scanned the horizon for a taxi, her gaze flickered across the kaleidoscope of faces, each one a fleeting glimpse into the tapestry of Parisian life. Time seemed to stretch as she patiently waited, her anticipation growing with each passing moment. Finally, a yellow cab appeared on the horizon, and Priya's face lit up with relief. With a swift wave, she hailed the taxi, her heart brimming with a sense of triumph as she settled into the comforting embrace of the familiar leather seats, but just then ram hoped inside the car

Priya: Ram, what are you doing here?

Ram: Oh, hey Priya. Alisha asked me to come along and assist you for today.

Priya: Assist me? I didn't ask for your help. I can manage perfectly fine on my own.

Ram: I know, but Alisha was worried, and she thought it would be best if I accompanied you.

Priya: Well, you shouldn't have agreed. I don't need anyone watching over me. I had my own plans.

Ram: I understand, but I'm just here to make sure you're safe. I won't intrude on your day.

Priya: It doesn't matter. I wanted to do this alone. I can't believe she did this.

Ram: Please calm down. I'll keep my distance. Let's make the best of it.

Priya: Fine. Just stay out of my sight.

Ram: Alright, I'll do that.shall we go now .

With a sense of tension palpable in the air, Ram leaned forward and calmly instructed the driver to commence the journey. Sensing Priya's silent resentment, he avoided any further conversation, allowing the rhythmic hum of the car's engine to fill the uneasy silence. The vehicle smoothly merged into the flow of the bustling Parisian traffic, navigating the intricate network of streets and boulevards with a practiced ease. Ram's gaze drifted to the passing landmarks, his mind preoccupied with the delicate task of maintaining a respectful distance while ensuring Priya's safety remained his paramount concern. As the cityscape unfolded before them, a subtle air of restraint enveloped the car, each occupant lost in their own thoughts, the muted ambiance punctuated only by the muffled sounds of the bustling metropolis outside.