The apartment smelled faintly of incense and fresh paint when Sakshi walked in, dragging her suitcase behind her. After hours on the train and a long cab ride through Delhi's chaotic streets, she finally felt the familiar comfort of her second home.
She unpacked slowly — arranging her clothes, lining up her books, and setting a small framed photo of her family on the desk. The room looked the same as she had left it, yet something about it felt quieter.
Her friend Anaya — Anu to everyone — peeked out from the kitchen. "Welcome back, Miss Delhi Dreamer!" she said, handing Sakshi a glass of water.
Sakshi laughed. "Dreamer? Please. I'm still recovering from Mom's ten-minute goodbye speech."
Both of them burst out laughing, and soon the apartment was filled with chatter again. After freshening up, they sat down for lunch, talking endlessly between bites.
Later that afternoon, they called Ishika — or Ishu — and Pihu, another close friend. The group video call turned into a lively mix of laughter, gossip, and endless stories from home. They even started discussing ideas for a small farewell party for their favorite teacher — someone who was more a friend than a mentor.
Excitement sparked through the call as they discussed decorations, songs, and finally decided on their dresses — traditional crop tops with skirts and matching shrugs. Once the plan was set, they ended the call with giggles and goodnight wishes.
Feeling light and happy, Sakshi and Anu played some music, turning their living room into a mini dance floor. They twirled, laughed, and sang along, the stress of travel melting away.
After a while, tired but smiling, they finally switched off the lights and went to bed. The city outside buzzed softly, but inside, the apartment was filled with a calm warmth — two friends, a new plan, and the beginning of days they'd never forget.