Coffee, Campuses, and Almosts

By Friday, Aarohi found herself checking her phone more than she’d admit.

When Raghav texted, Coffee at Vohuman?... she didn’t hesitate.

The café smelled of old memories and strong brew. Raghav wasn’t loud here. He wasn’t performing. He was just… real.

“I wanted to get to know you,” he said, stirring his coffee. “You’re different. In a good way.”

“Different usually means weird,” Aarohi smiled.

“Then weird’s my type.”

They started spending time together, late walks near ARAI Hills, shared 'vada pavs', and long conversations about feeling stuck. Even the inter-college football match surprised her. Raghav sat in the stands beside her instead of playing.

“Shouldn’t you be down there?” she teased.

“I’d rather be here,” he said.

And she believed him.

For the first time, Aarohi didn’t feel invisible.

Which was exactly why it hurt when he disappeared...