Part 3: U n e x p e c t e d I n v i t a t i o n s
Life always brings its own twists you never know what’s around the corner. If we could predict everything, where would the fun be?
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Just after the dance‑competition announcement, the college courtyard thrummed with excitement. Sunshine dappled through the trees, and clusters of students debated song choices and routine ideas. Aarvi lingered at the edge, arms crossed, tension coiling in her chest.
This Ronny never learns, she thought, jaw set.
Ronny bounded toward her, grin wide. “Aarvi—where’d you vanish to? Aren’t you going to answer me?”
Her mind spun. Say yes and get it over with… or hold out for Ansh? She inhaled, forcing a steady tone. “All right, Ronny. I’ll dance with you.”
A hush fell. Ronny’s face lit up. “Great!”
She offered a small, wry laugh. “Happy now?”
Jay, standing beside Nehal, arched an eyebrow. “You’re… really dancing with Ronny?”
Aarvi shrugged, brushing hair from her face. “So what? Is that so unbelievable?”
Jay chuckled. “Just wasn’t expecting it.”
At that moment, Pooja slipped through the crowd, voice soft but clear. “Ansh, will you dance with me?”
Aarvi’s pulse hammered. Where did she come from? Ansh looked startled, then managed a quiet nod. “Yes.”
The world seemed to pause. Pooja’s smile was radiant. “Perfect see you tomorrow!”
Ansh offered a shy wave. “Okay bye.”
Murmurs rippled around Aarvi. She felt warmth flood her cheeks. I’ve really messed this up. Without another word, she turned and stalked off campus, boots clicking on the pavement. All night, she replayed the moment, mind racing: How can I mend this?
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The Next Morning
Dawn light spilled across the courtyard as Aarvi arrived, shoulders tense, thoughts tangled. She glanced at the practice sign‑up sheet by the notice board, heart sinking.
Agreeing to Ronny was rash… pairing Ansh with Pooja?
A cheerful call broke her reverie.
Ronny: “Aarvi!”
She forced a calm face. “Yes?”
Ronny (bouncing on his toes): “When do we start practice?”
Aarvi traced patterns on the ground with her shoe. “After class let’s talk then.” She turned, navigating through clusters of eager peers.
He’s already charging ahead…
In the lecture hall, she met Jay, Nehal, and Rohit by the window. Their usual easy banter felt strained under her distracted gaze.
Rohit (teasing gently): “Why the long face? What’s up?”
Aarvi sighed, glancing away. “Nothing at all.” She slid into her seat before anyone could press further.
(Jay’s thoughts: “Something’s really off. Ronny’s invite I get but Pooja and Ansh pairing? Feels… like someone’s playing matchmaker or worse, stirring trouble.”)
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Meanwhile…
Down a quiet corridor, Ronny and Pooja huddled beside the lockers.
Ronny (grinning conspiratorially): “Can you believe it? We’ve got partners.”
Pooja (eyes glinting): “This is only the beginning. Tomorrow’s rehearsal watch and see.”
Their whispered exchange ended with a shared look, as if they harbored a secret plan.
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Is this all mere coincidence or a carefully plotted scheme? Will Aarvi find the courage to claim her own partner? And how will these unexpected pairings reshape friendships, loyalties, and hearts?
D o n’ t m i s s t h e n e x t p a r t !
