Broken Bonds, New Paths

"Umm... Aditya, I... I like you." Her voice faltered at the end, but the words were out, and the weight they had carried for so long had finally been lifted from her chest. The silence in the corridor was palpable. Then, Aditya laughed-loud and mocking. Shravi felt her face flush in embarrassment, and students started to gather around, sensing an opportunity for entertainment. "Like me?" Aditya sneered, his voice dripping with derision. "Look at you. You're so childish. Just because your dad's rich doesn't mean I'll fall for you. You can't even manage your studies, let alone impress anyone." He took a slow step forward, his gaze contemptuous. "You're such a behenji. You know, I already have a girlfriend." Laughter erupted from the crowd, and Shravi's heart shattered. The cruel words felt like sharp knives cutting through her. Her eyes stung with tears, but she refused to let them fall, knowing she couldn't stand the humiliation any longer.