Part 7: Love in the Open
431 Words
Aarushi had never imagined that saying three simple words—I love you—could change her life so much.
The moment she confessed, the entire campus seemed to erupt in cheers. Meera hugged her, jumping excitedly, while Vivaan just stood there, his usual cocky smirk replaced by something softer. Something real.
Vivaan (grinning): “Say it again.”
Aarushi rolled her eyes, her cheeks burning. “I just said it!”
Vivaan (teasing): “Yeah, but I want to hear it properly. No whispering this time.”
She narrowed her eyes. “You’re insufferable.”
Vivaan (laughing): “And you’re adorable when you’re annoyed.”
Before she could reply, he grabbed her hand, intertwining their fingers. The gesture was simple, but it sent a warmth through her that she had never felt before.
And just like that, Aarushi Sharma and Vivaan Mehra were officially together.
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The Campus Buzz
The news spread like wildfire.
By the next morning, everyone in college knew that the rich, untouchable Vivaan Mehra was in love with Aarushi Sharma, the scholarship student.
Some were supportive. Others weren’t.
Random Girl in the Café (whispering): “She’s just using him for his money.”
Another Student: “There’s no way this will last. His family will never accept her.”
Aarushi heard it all. And while she tried to ignore it, the words found their way into her heart.
Vivaan, of course, didn’t care.
Vivaan (shrugging): “People will always talk. Let them.”
Aarushi (hesitant): “But what if—”
Vivaan (cutting her off): “No what ifs, Aarushi. It’s just you and me. That’s all that matters.”
She wanted to believe that. But deep down, she knew their biggest challenge was yet to come.
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Meeting the Family
A month into their relationship, Vivaan made a bold declaration.
Vivaan: “I want you to meet my parents.”
Aarushi choked on her coffee. “What?”
Vivaan (calmly): “You heard me. We’ve been dating for a month. It’s time.”
Aarushi (panicking): “Vivaan, no! Your parents are… they won’t accept me.”
Vivaan’s jaw tightened. “I don’t care what they think.”
She sighed. “But I do. This isn’t just about us, Vivaan. Your family is important to you.”
He was silent for a moment. Then, softly, he said, “Not more than you.”
Aarushi’s heart clenched. She had never doubted his feelings for her. But love wasn’t always enough.
And soon, they were going to find that out the hard way.
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End of Part 7.
- Writer
