Ravi had just stepped out of the principal's office when Tanya and Shivam came running towards him.Both were shocked after witnessing his beastly form earlier.
Tanya (smiling):"I never knew… the Ravi everyone thought was weak could be this strong."
Shivam (relieved):"Thanks, yaar. If you hadn't come today… I would've been finished."
Ravi (serious tone):"Just like you joined the fight for me in the morning without thinking twice… I did the same for you.In fact, that's the true meaning of friendship to stand beside each other in every problem."
Hearing this, Tanya and Shivam realized one thing clearly Ravi truly considered them his friends from the heart.
Without waiting another moment, both of them jumped forward and hugged Ravi tightly.
The Next Day - In Class
Teacher (explaining):"Children, your exams are approaching. It's time to prepare seriously so you can achieve your future goals.This is 9th grade, and most of you are around 13 or so. Remember after you turn 18, this orphanage will no longer care for you. You will have to take care of yourselves earn for yourself, feed yourself, and live independently."
Hearing this, some children looked excited… while others seemed worried.
Shivam & Tanya (thinking):"After 18, we won't be under the orphanage's care anymore. That means I must start preparing now… so I can support myself when I chase my dream of becoming a doctor/CA."
Ravi (thinking, a little distant):"So after 18… I won't see these kids of the orphanage again. Hah… maybe that's for the best."
After Class
The trio walked out of the classroom together, chatting.
Shivam (excited):"Man, I already feel excited just thinking about what life will be like after 18!"
Tanya (smiling):"Even imagining it feels good… having jobs, earning for ourselves, living on our own."
Ravi, however, was quieter than usual.
Ravi (thinking, sadly):"They're both so excited… but after 18, I'll be separated from my friends.Maybe it's better this way… at least they won't suffer by being with me."
Tanya glanced at Ravi and immediately understood what was running through his mind.
Tanya (reassuring):"Even if we get separated after 18, we'll always stay in touch. Because the three of us… are like a family."
Shivam (nodding):"Exactly! I don't ever want to lose friends like you two. Right, Ravi?"
Ravi (suddenly, with a faint smile):"Yes… yes, I don't want to lose you either."