After a long journey, she was here. Her mind danced with possibilities—the friendships she might form, the adventures awaiting her. But beneath the excitement, something deeper stirred.
The puzzle.
It had been with her for as long as she could remember—her only link to a past clouded in silence, and to the parents she had never known. There were no photographs, no stories, no explanations. Just that one object, cryptic and enduring.
She never told anyone about it—not even her closest friends. It was hers alone.
Just then, her phone buzzed. It was Meher.
Ananya quickly answered, her voice bright with excitement.
"Where are you?" she asked, bouncing on her feet.
"I'm on my way," Meher replied calmly, her tone soothing as ever.
"I've already found my room! I'm so excited. What about you?"
"I'm coming. Wait for me," Meher answered with a soft chuckle.
Even as the thrill of arrival bubbled inside her, Ananya felt reassured knowing Meher was close. Her friend's grounded, thoughtful presence always had a way of making things feel clearer—like she could breathe easier.