College (first year)

 COLLEGE (FIRST YEAR)

Arun had been living a joyful life for the past four years, experiencing a consistent happiness that began after he entered the ninth grade. The source of his joy was a girl named Samira. Both Arun and Samira had attended the same school since childhood, but it was only in ninth grade, when they were placed in the same section B, that they truly got to know each other.

Arun and Samira had a deep mutual understanding and frequently found common ground on numerous issues. Living in close proximity, their families were acquainted with one another. They regularly walked to school together, enjoyed their lunches side by side, and spent time reading and returning home as a pair.

Prior to forming a friendship with Samira, Arun was quite introverted and focused primarily on his studies. However, after meeting her, he began to engage in various school activities, broadening his social interactions. They never considered the idea of romantic relationships, yet their companionship brought them both joy.

Throughout their friendship, they often studied together in the evenings, alternating between Arun's house and Samira's. As their four-year bond progressed into their 12th standard, they solidified their status as best friends.

Arun excelled in his studies and consistently provided academic assistance to Samira. Although Samira lacked a strong interest in her studies. However, Arun's encouragement inspired her to look forward to her 12th-grade results. Her parents recognized that her progress was largely due to Arun's support and frequently expressed their appreciation for his help.

The long-awaited results were finally released, and both Arun and Samira successfully passed their exams. Arun achieved an impressive score of 94 percent, while Samira secured a passing mark of 45 percent. Despite the lower score, she and her family celebrated her achievement, grateful that she had passed. Filled with enthusiasm for his future, Arun eagerly began exploring college options to continue his education.

Arun was thrilled to receive admission to a regular college, knowing that Samira could only pursue her studies through correspondence. Eager to share the news, he visited Samira's home to tell her about his acceptance into the first year. She was equally delighted for him and conveyed her heartfelt congratulations.

Arun was oblivious to the fact that another surprise awaited him and his excitement quickly faded when he received a response from Samira. She expressed her own enthusiasm by revealing that she had decided to forgo any additional studies. Arun shocked and quickly questioned her decision, asking, "What will you do with your life if you’re not continuing your education? Don’t you understand how crucial studying is in today’s world? Are you really serious about this?"

Arun's inquiries were relentless, reflecting his uncertainty about what to ask next. She responded, "I can no longer bear the weight of academic pressure; I've already endured enough. Instead, I plan to pursue a beauty parlour course, as it aligns with my passion."

Arun once more attempted to persuade her of the significance of education, but she remained resolute in her choice. He then spoke with her parents to share the details of their conversation. Her father expressed, "We understand your perspective, but she is unwilling to heed our advice. We have already been trying to convince her for the past two days."

Arun was taken aback by the shift in their perspectives, particularly how differently Samira was approaching the situation. He struggled to come to terms with this change and decided to visit her home again the following day in an attempt to offer guidance. Despite his best efforts, he was met with the same response. 

Feeling frustrated, Arun told Samira, "This is the last day of our friendship." 

In response, Samira questioned, "Why are you overreacting? This is my choice, and you are also pursuing what you need in your life."

Arun expressed, "My parents never had the opportunity to learn to read or write. I aspire to elevate my family through education. This is my dream, and I cannot pursue it alongside those who do not share the same ambition for further studies. Today marks the beginning of my friendship with a new girlfriend - College (first year)."

With that, he departed from her home and never returned. 

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