=

  Part- 311:

  Toya sat on her bed, gazing bnkly at the wall as the afternoon sun streamed through the window, casting warm rays that danced across her room. The cheerful light trasted sharply with her feelings of ennui, as the end of vacation loomed ever closer. With school just around the er, she felt the weight of expectations pressing down on her. She had meticulously finished her homework over the past few days, p over every detail to ensure she repared for the uping term. But now, after cheg everything off her to-do list, she yearned for something—anything—to liven up her day and break the monotony of her routine.

  A smile crept onto her face as she recalled her ret fake shopping mall date with James. The memory flooded her with warmth, reminding her of the ughter they shared and the lighthat had momentarily lifted her worries. It had been a delightful escape from the pressures of school, Rakib and family life. She remembered the way he had made her ugh, how they had pyfully argued over which ice cream fvor was superior, and how their casual banter had felt so easy and fortable.

  As she savored the memory, she briefly eaihe idea of reag out to him for another outing, envisioning another afternoon filled with ughter and fun. But that thought quickly brushed aside, tainted by the practical reality of their lives. He’s probably busy training, she thought, a tinge ret creeping in as she remembered how crucial the uping quarter-final match was for him and the entire judo team. She wished she could be a part of that world, to see him in his element, but the thought was fleeting.

  With a resigned sigh, Toya picked up her phone and scrolled through her tacts, searg for something to spark her i. Her fingers hovered over familiar names until she stumbled upon a name she hadn’t seen in ages—Dipa. They had once shared a close friendship during childhood, going on tless adventures and weaving their own tales of mischief and ughter before her family moved due to her father’s job.

  The nostalgia hit her hard, bringing back vivid memories of summer days spent pying in the park, riding bikes, and sharis uhe stars. Dipa had retly returo the city after six long years apart, and a wave of hope fluttered in Toya’s chest at the thought of rekindling their friendship. With newfouermination, Toya dialed the number, her heart rag in anticipation of what their reunion might bring.

  “Hello?” Dipa’s voice crackled through the line, filled with surprise and delight that made Toya’s heart swell.

  “Toya! It’s been so long!” Dipa excimed, and Toya could hear the joy in her voice, a sound that felt like a f hug across the distance of time.

  “I know! I was w if you’d like to meet up. I’m a bit bored at home,” Toya replied, her excitement bubbling to the surface.

  “Of course! I’d love that! When and where?” Dipa’s eagerness alpable, further igniting Toya’s owhusiasm.