Saloni woke up to the soft sunlight streaming through the curtains. She stretched and yawned, the events of the previous day still fresh in her mind. A smile tugged at her lips as she thought about Shreya’s excitement for the shopping trip, and the playful banter she’d shared with Samay and Arjun.
Looking at the time, Saloni realized she was running a bit late.
Saloni: (grinning to herself) "Alright, I can’t be late today, especially not with Shreya’s crazy energy."
She rushed through her morning routine, making sure to look presentable for the busy day ahead. Once she was dressed, she glanced over at Shreya’s side of the room, where her best friend was still sound asleep, snuggled under the covers.
Saloni smiled mischievously and walked over to the bed.
Saloni: (loudly and teasingly) "Hello, Miss Universe! Time to wake up! I need my car keys, and fast. If you don’t get up, this is the only way I’m not going to be late today!"
Shreya groggily opened one eye and glanced at Saloni, clearly still half asleep.
Shreya: (sleepily, with a grin) "No way... Not today, Saloni. You’re going to be on time, whether I give you the keys or not."
Saloni: (smiling) "Come on, Shreya, I’m not joking. I have things to do today, and we’re already behind schedule. I need to get to work!"
Shreya stretched dramatically, feigning annoyance but clearly enjoying the playful exchange. She sat up, rubbing her eyes, and finally gave in.
Shreya: (mockingly dramatic) "Fine, fine, but only because I’m such a good friend. But I’m not giving you the keys just yet, missy."
Saloni raised an eyebrow, realizing Shreya’s mischievous nature was in full swing.
Saloni: "Okay, if you won’t give me the keys, then what? What’s your plan to get me there on time, huh?"
Shreya: (grinning widely) "I’ll drop you myself. How about that? Have you had breakfast yet? Or do I have to drag you out to eat something first?"
Saloni’s eyes widened in playful disbelief.
Saloni: (feigning frustration) "Oh, so now you’re playing the ‘good friend’ card? You’re gonna drop me? Really? Alright, Miss Universe, lead the way."
Shreya got out of bed with an exaggerated sigh, as if it was the hardest thing she had to do all day. She put on her slippers and grabbed the keys to the car from her dresser, tossing them to Saloni as she headed to the bathroom.
Shreya: (half-heartedly) "Hurry up and get your breakfast, and don’t even think about being late. We’re going shopping after this!"
Saloni couldn’t help but laugh at Shreya’s antics. She knew she was being playful, but she was also serious about making sure everything went smoothly today, especially with the busy schedule ahead.
As Saloni grabbed her breakfast, she felt a sense of warmth. Despite the rushed morning, the energy between her and Shreya was infectious. It was a reminder of how much they enjoyed each other’s company. And as the day was about to begin, she couldn’t help but feel excited for the shopping trip ahead and the time spent with her friends.
Saloni had spent the entire day working non-stop. It was one of those days when everything felt like a whirlwind. Between meetings, emails, and everything else, time had flown by. Her mind was constantly racing with tasks, but there was a moment of relief when she heard the familiar ringtone of her phone. It was Shreya.
She quickly answered the call, smiling at the thought of her friend.
Saloni: (picking up the phone) "Hey, Shreya! What’s up?"
Shreya: (on the other end, excited) "Hey, Saloni! We’ll be in front of your workplace in 10 minutes, so be ready! We’ll pick you up and then head out to the mall for the shopping trip."
Saloni: (glancing at the clock) "Got it! I’m wrapping up here, just give me a few minutes."
She quickly packed up her things, making sure everything was in order. Her desk was a bit of a mess from all the work she had done throughout the day, but she didn’t have time to clean it up.
After shutting down her laptop and grabbing her bag, Saloni sent a quick message to Shreya to let her know she was almost ready.
Text Message: "I’m coming out now, see you in a bit!"
Minutes later, she heard a horn from outside. Saloni looked out the window, her heart racing a bit from excitement. It was time. She grabbed her things and made her way out of the office, heading towards the parking lot.