"WHAT THE HELL!" Nida screams abiding to the shocks of icy chilled water soaking her comforter and dripping through her face. "Excuse me, the audacity you have to shout at me when you are the one who failed to fulfill their responsibility" I forcefully take off Saniya's quilt and wake Hoor up How am I supposed to keep my cool when we all are on the verge of running late on the first day of our senior year! I would blame it all on Nida never ending antics. After returning from a long vacation as our final year came to a close, she insisted on partying late into the night to celebrate our finally becoming seniors. I particularly requested Nida to wake us all early in the morning but Nida being Nida, she must've partied harder after all of us went to bed. 8 "I'm sorry mom, you know how much I love my bed, especially when it's warm" 10 This sleeping beauty bends forward while yawning and wrapping herself in her blanket "Nida Aamir if you don't leave your bed in the next few minutes then you shall never see your fashion designs again" Sometimes all I do is ponder that Nida is possessed by some crazy spirit but in her language she's full of life unlike me who buries my nose in books all day. "Wait! WE ARE GETTING LATE FOR GOD SAKE" finally Nida springs out from her bed and rushes to the washroom "Noor have you seen my sketch book?" Horror twinkles in Saniya's hazel eyes, as she turns the room upside down just to search her sketch book. If there's one thing that can drive Saniya furious is any harm occurring to her sketchbook. "Naya it's right under your pillow" I am their mother in true senses. I'm the one burdened with the responsibility to organize their belongings, revamping their appearance at any event or resolving their chaotic situations. I inspect the dorm room, which looks like a tornado hit it. Clothes are dispersed across the room, Saniya is frantically shoving her feet into her shoes, and Hoor is combing her hair calmly with a serene smile amidst the chaos. Just then Nida bursts out of the bathroom with a confused look "why is there a model of a bridge in our bathtub!?"Saniya!" I shout, realizing her latest architectural project has taken over our bathroom.
"Sorry! I needed to check its water resistance" Saniya says, carefully retrieving her miniature from the bathtub. To a stranger this room may not be less than a mental asylum but in these 4 years it has become the source of tranquility or I should call it home. Four girls who stepped into the society of competitive members turned out to be each other's family. I love them more than anyone else in this world. Nida finally manages to get on her shoes and scream "let's go girlzz! Show the Aurelians that we are their senior now" her green eyes flashes her never-ending exhilaration. "Wait hoor your shoe laces are not tied" Inaya kneels down and ties her shoelaces. Hoorain is the youngest of us all and the most sensitive one so we tend to pamper her like a child. I can't blame her for being so sentimental because if I was in her shoes I would've dealt with the trauma in a worse manner, she's really strong and I'm proud of her. As we all rush to our university, I trip over a stray roller skate, crashing down on the floor "ouchhh! Whose is this" pain shooting through me making me yelp. The question was pointless to ask when I'm aware of the owner "Nida's of course" Saniya groans as she lends me a hand to pick me up. "Oops my bad!" Nida calls from the front not even bothering to look behind or slowing down. 1 As we march to the main building which is at a few steps away from the hostel faculty, we all release a sigh of relief that we ain't late "okay girls best of luck for the day" we bump our fist simultaneously as our signature style. "Yeah and don't forget to meet at the grand cafeteria at break time" Hoor affirms as she sets her light curtain bangs, following the instructions of Saniya "Of course text on our gc alright take care bye" Nida being Nida As I bid farewell to my friends, promising to reconvene at the main cafeteria during our break, I tread the familiar path towards my department, my thoughts swirling like autumn leaves caught in a gentle breeze. Aurelian University stands as a beacon of excellence, its reputation soaring high above the clouds. Its hallowed halls have witnessed the aspirations of countless scholars, each yearning for the elusive golden ticket to this esteemed institution. To be admitted into Aurelian is to grasp a dream beyond the grasp of many-a privilege I cherish with every fiber of my being. Yet, amidst the grandeur of its academic prowess, Aurelian boasts not only illustrious study programs but also a realm of unparalleled comfort. The hostel facilities, akin to a luxurious retreat, often blur the lines between student accommodation and a five-star hotel. It's a paradox of opulence and toil, where the comforts of home collide with the rigors of academia. As I observe the wide-eyed enthusiasm of the incoming freshmen, I can't help but feel a pang of wistfulness. If only they were privy to the hidden trials that await the uninitiated. For within the walls of Aurelian, the stakes are high, and the journey unforgiving. Entry is merely the first hurdle; survival, the ultimate test. A single misstep, a solitary stumble, and the consequences are swift and unforgiving. The academic challenges that lie ahead are akin to navigating a labyrinth of uncertainty, where failure is not an option but an inevitable specter haunting the unprepared. With a heavy heart, I step into my department, bracing myself for the trials that lie ahead. For in this esteemed institution, success is earned through perseverance, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to excellence and Noor shaikh is born to be excellent. As I enter the bustling halls of the business department, my senses are immediately assaulted by the familiar sights and sounds of academia. The air crackles with the energy of ambition, each student driven by their own aspirations for success. Yet, amidst the throng of eager minds, there he stands-Mustufa, my academic rival. With his glasses perched precariously on his nose and his impeccably styled hair framing his chiseled features, Mustufa exudes an aura of effortless confidence. Dressed in his signature Korean attire, he commands attention without uttering a word. It's infuriating, really, how effortlessly he seems to glide through life, a natural-born genius in every sense of the word. Our eyes lock in a silent battle of wills, a silent acknowledgement of the rivalry that has defined our academic careers thus far. For three long years, we've been locked in a fierce competition, each semester a relentless tug-of-war for the coveted title of top student. The memories flood back, each semester a chapter in our tumultuous history. The first semester, halted by Noor's unexpected brilliance. The second, thwarted by Mustufa's unwavering determination. And the third, a tense standoff that ended in a bitter draw. But this semester, this semester would be different. This semester would be the tiebreaker, the final showdown to determine once and for all who reigns supreme. As I watch Mustufa from across the room, a surge of resentment courses through me. It's not fair, I think bitterly, how effortlessly he seems to excel while I struggle to keep pace. He's a natural, a born genius, while I have to toil and sweat for every ounce of success. "Well Well Well" Mustufa's infuriating voice aching my ear as if someone is pushing nails into them "look who's here the overachiever Noor shaikh" his tone dripping with sarcasm as he adjusts his glasses with a smug smirk, his dimple flashing momentarily I hate how his words stab my heart every time "don't be so jealous Mr genius at least I achieve something, unlike you" He scoffs unable to hide the contempt in his voice "might I remind you academic worm that I shared The top spot with you" A sarcastic laugh Bubbles in my throat "and that's all you're capable of Mr Mustufa Mirza" We both know that this sarcastic remark has nothing to do with reality, Mustufa is capable of competing with all the students at Aurelian and still top with flying colors. Mustufa chuckles, a sound that graves off my nerves like nails on a chalkboard, his dimple deepening with amusement "I see, you have spent your vacations thinking about this remark. Impressive Noor" My blood boils at his insolence, In a sudden burst of frustration, I grab my water bottle and, without thinking, splash its contents all over Mustufa. The water drenches his hair, dripping down his face and soaking his glasses. A collective gasp echoes through the hallway as all eyes turn towards us. Mustufa stands there, momentarily stunned, but then a slow smirk spreads across his face. With water dripping through his wet glasses and down his cheeks, he looks at me with a mixture of amusement and challenge. "Nice move, Noor. But you know what they say about payback." Before I can react, he reciprocates, splashing his water bottle right back at me. The cold water shocks me, but I refuse to back down, meeting his gaze with unwavering fury. The tension between us crackles like electricity as we stand there, dripping wet, locked in a silent battle of wills. The lecture hall door swings open, and the professor steps in, eyeing us both with a mixture of curiosity and disapproval. "Take your seats, both of you," the professor commands, breaking the spell. As we file into the lecture hall, I can feel Mustufa's eyes on me. I glance over at him, shooting him with a look of pure hatred. He merely smirks in response, his confidence unshaken. Throughout the lecture, the air is thick with unresolved tension. I focus on my notes, refusing to let Mustufa's presence distract me, but every so often, our eyes meet. His smug expression only fuels my determination. As the lecture concludes, I gather my things, casting one last glance at Mustufa. He meets my gaze, his smirk still firmly in place. But I can't help but show him a middle finger as I turn to leave. I hope to see his reaction but it isn't worth it. What a magnificent way to embark my senior year Starting from this semester: Academic worm Ayra - 1 Genius Zaid - 0
If there was one thing that Nida Aamir symbolized it would be fun,joy and all the synonyms of such word. I believe that the intricate thread joining humans and peace can only be strengthened if one allows himself to dwell in the light and not get lost in the harshness of darkness. Simply life always throws equal reasons at you for being elatic and despondent, it depends on your vision to blur itself from homing in one of them. And for me, well I search for reasons to be ecstatic. As luck would have it, my class wrapped up a little bit sooner and I'm still left with plenty of time to catch up with my girls in cafeteria which means it's perfect time to gawk at the sexiest part of Aurelian. I proceed towards the enormous Sports facility of our university, particularly the football arena where all the hot boys are slipped in harmonic jerseys however being an aspiring fashion designer I can't help but notice some alteration in their jerseys, as if they are lacking something. It would be a dream to design their uniforms one day. 3 The football venue is a treat for an eye fond of sports. A gigantic ground circulated with seats where the audience cheers for their favorite team. Since no match is scheduled today so all the players are warming up for a practice match. I'm not a huge fan of playing sports myself but watching and screaming for it has always been my Roman empire. I grab a seat in the vicinity of the ground to closely grasp the essence of this remarkable game. I observe our team taking laps around the ground before indulging into an actual game. Sometimes I wonder if I should've opted for sports science and not fashion designing but again I'm a fan not player, it would've been a disaster had I stepped into this lane. Suddenly as a player steps ahead, ignorant of the paper that slipped from his pocket I gasp in disbelief. Without a sec thought I rush to pick his belonging and run after him, my small steps remains unmatchable to the athletes huge steps. C'mon I'm running and he's still walking. He's faster! Noticing his jersey number I yell out cupping my mouth from it's corners "hey jersey number 07!" Thankfully his feet freezes "dude you just dropped your paper over here When he turns back, a mixture of surprise and confusion dances across his features. It's Rayan Khan, the football team captain, the epitome of athleticism and the heartthrob of the campus. With his striking light brown eyes, tousled hair, and a jawline sharp enough to cut diamonds, he's basically a walking advertisement for perfection. And here I am, panting like I've just run a marathon. "Yeah?" He murmurs, his voice low and serious, well what else can I expect from Rayan Khan, his expressions can give rocks a tough competition "Zara paani ki bottle to pass karo" (Pass the water bottle please) I utter between my panting session. It may have looked unethical of me to demand a stranger like this but it is a terrible etiquette of him for not offering water in the first place, so sharam gayi bhar mein. His confusion is palpable as he fumbles for a response "Excuse me?" "Sharam bhi koi cheez hoti hai captain!" I exclaim with a playful smile "I'm a girl and I seriously just ran a marathon to return this paper to you, little hydration won't hurt" He blinks clearly taken aback from my unabashed candor. Chill Nida life is too precious to be wasted on pondering what others think of you, we'll live just the way you are. To my surprise, Rayan nods, reaching into his bag and handing me his water bottle. I eagerly take a gulp, relishing the refreshing sensation as the cool liquid cascades down my throat. But as I return the bottle to him, I can't help but feel a pang of embarrassment. Here I am, asking for a drink like it's the most natural thing in the world, while he's probably wondering how he got stuck with such a bizarre encounter. Oh well, at least I got my moment of hydration fame! "Here you go" I chirp, extending the paper with an exaggerated flourish "couldn't let your important document slide just like that" He takes the paper, his brow furrowing as he examines it "what's this? It isn't mine. It seems like.... Potatoes playing football" My heart sinks upon the realization that I might've jumbled up the jersey numbers and mistaken him for someone else, now I couldn't look like a fool Infront of him "umm..oh yeah I see.." He continues gazing at me like he has encountered a joker "it's..uh.. yeah..it can be really valuable for your upcoming game! Consider it as a plan or a strategy. It was in your destiny to receive this paper, OMG your next match win is guaranteed" C'mon Nida you could've Just simply clarified that you misunderstood the situation but you have to complicate everything. "Try considering those potatoes as you players..not that I'm calling you guys potatoes but hey I love potatoes, they taste heavenly but again you guys aren't potatoes.. nothing wrong in estimating....." As I babble on about my ludicrous potato football theory, I notice the furrowed brow of the guy in front of me. His expression screams, "Please, for the love of God, stop talking." But I can't help myself. "I've just stayed here for two minute, and you've talked more than I've heard anyone else talk in hours," he finally interrupts, his voice tinged with irritation. Undeterred, I flash him a grin. "Nice thing nah there's always the first time for everything, I'm Nida Aamir," I declare, extending my hand as if we are old pals. To my surprise, his response is anything but warm. "Sure, Nida Aamir," he retorts dryly, "I hope we never meet again." Ouch. His words sting, but I brush them off with a laugh. Some people just can't appreciate my vibrant personality. As he briskly walks away, I can't help but feel a twinge of disappointment. Oh well, not everyone is meant to be dazzled by my charm. Hugging my bag tightly I escort myself to my next destination which is canteen. If I'm late this time they all will kill me.
Making my way through the lush green presence of Aurelian to the main cafeteria, I surround my gaze to newly determined and ambitious freshmen, harkening back the era when I was also one of them brings back all the fresh memories. I would be lying if I proclaimed that I didn't miss this place during the vacations. I longed every ounce of it, the sidewalk to my department, the bewitching blossoming orchards, the friends clasping on each other's back and sharing their most sincere laughters. Surveying my surroundings, my eyes are struck by the signature bench of 'BHG' (blazing hot gang) this is the ridiculous label that Aurelians have blessed them with, I bet they don't even know about it. In the university courtyard, Avyaan Ansari, the campus heartthrob and notorious playboy, stands confidently, delivering his words like a president. Rayan Khan, the football team's captain, lounges on the nearby bench, projecting his usual disinterest. Beside them, Mustufa Mirza listens intently to Avyaan, offering occasional laughter and high-fives. Meanwhile, Fahad Sikandar, known as the university's bad boy, leans against the bench in his leather jacket. Though rumors circulate about Fahad's formidable punch, he rarely, if ever, resorts to bullying. However, his occasional altercations with other students remain a mystery, leaving me to wonder about his motivations. Throughout my three years here, I've successfully kept my distance from this group, particularly Fahad, whose name I'm thankful he hasn't learned. The aura surrounding them is the only aspect of Aurelian I don't miss. All life and throughout my university years, I've maintained a strict distance from the bad boys and bullies. My past experiences have instilled a deep-seated fear of them in me. I hate them for the torment they caused me. As I walk through the bustling hallways of Aurelian University, I remind myself of this resolve. No matter how reformed they seem, the bad boys are nothing but trouble.I head towards the canteen, my usual sanctuary amidst the chaos. The familiar smell of coffee and laughter fills the air as I step inside. My friends, the girls who've become my second family, are already gathered at our usual spot."Hey Hoor" Nida waves, the joy in her green eyes is contagious I smile making my way towards them, the table is a whirlpool of chaos well that's not indifferent "Noor seems like you were thrown in a swimming pool" Drenched Noor rolls her eyes while I stifle my laugh "God I hate that creature you know Mustufa threw his water bottle on me" "Haww I still can't decipher that how can you hate that man! He's hot, he's smart and above all he wears glasses!" Frantically Nida throw herself on the table while Saniya playfully hits her back "Yeah you should go date him and wake every morning with a sarcastic he'd be like" Noor affirms mimicking Mustufa "Good morning Nida darling let me throw water on you" she says, with exaggerated gestures making us all burst into laughter "Stop it stop it this is way too correct, exactly the way he speaks" Saniya blurts out as he milkshake escapes her nose, adding to the hilarity of the moment "Guys Saniya's nose is now milk shake fountain" Nida bangs the table and occasionally Noor's back while laughing adhering to her habit. For any stranger, we all may be a bunch of lunatics laughing upon some silly cringe jokes but sincerely this is all we have as an escape from the cruelty life has to offer. It's us for each other forever. "Alright alright" I struggle to say due to the extreme session of laughter we had "seems like they mistakenly have me a hot coffee while I ordered a cold one let me go and change it" I walk through the bustling cafeteria, taking in the aroma of fresh pastries and brewed coffee that I didn't realize a tall, masculine figure approaching me. The collision is abrupt sending my steamy coffee cascading over his t-shirt. A painful gasp escapes him, as everyone turns their heads to look at us. My hands embarks shivering, sweat beads on my forehead, I feel my chest tightening as I find myself back in the dark storeroom, suffocation and begging for air. No Hoor you're safe, you're safe, you're safe I try to chant in my heart to naturalize my heartbeat but the thought of getting bullied again terrifies me "It's okay, Ms. There's nothing to worry about," I hear Fahad's concerned voice, but it sounds distant, like an echo traveling from a long way off. "Calm down, accidents can happen to anyone." 8 "I'm...so...rry," I stammer, wishing I could disappear. Why did I have to be so frail? "It's not your fault. I wasn't looking. It's totally fine," he reassured me.
Before I can utter another word, Noor steps forward, positioning herself between Fahad and me. She grips my hand tightly, instantly making me feel secure. Noor is truly our safe place. "I wish it was your best friend that she burned," Noor snaps, glaring at Fahad. Fahad raises his eyebrows in confusion, about to say something when Mustufa steps in front of him. Mustufa, the eternal thorn in Ayra's side. "Missing me already? Noor" Zaid chimes turning the heat that's surely boiling Noor's blood. "What are you doing here, Mustufa?" Noor sneers. "Trying to save my friend from your terrible presence" Mustufa retorts. "You mean the way you save everyone from your boring lectures on 'business innovation'?" Noor shoots back. "Oh last time I remember that you were noting points from that same boring lecture " Mustufa quips, crossing his arms. "I was simply noting your idiotic points to prevent using in my lectures trust me not even in my dreams I pay attention to anything you say" Noor fires back. Mustufa smirks wickedly "sweetheart I didn't know I appeared in your dreams" 36 "Nightmares call them nightmares Mustufa" As Mustufa and Noor continue roasting each other, Fahad glances at me. I take a deep breath, feeling grateful that I'm not having an episode of PTSD. I'm calm now, watching the scene unfold. "Damnnn bro she's so cool! Serves you right Mustufa" Ayan, the third member of Fahad's group, jumps in, laughing. "Avyan if I hear you talking more I'd smash your pretty face" Mustufa says. "At least he is pretty unlike you" Noor responds. Ayan covers his face, his eyes widened upon hearing Noor's savage retort.
Everyone around bursts into laughter at Mustufa's expense, and Noor stands triumphant. But before Mustufa can respond, Ayan makes another jab. "Mustufa, apni bezzati karwali ya aur karwani hai?" Avyan laughs, slapping Mustufa on the back. Mustufa's eyes narrow, a wicked grin spreading across his face as he turns to Noor. "Sweetheart, if talking less made you as pretty as Avyan, you might actually stand a chance," Mustufa says smoothly. "But we all know even that miracle wouldn't be enough for you." Leaving Noor sheikh speechless is the task that can only be performed by Mustufa Mirza which he successfully did now but judging by Noor's expression she isn't going to let it slide. Noor grabs a pastry from the nearby table and, without a moment's hesitation, smashes it right into Mustufa's face. The room falls silent for a split second, everyone stunned by the sudden turn of events. Gasps echo around the room, eyes wide in shock. Mustufa stands there, his face covered in cream and crumbs, his expression shifting from surprise to anger. He wipes a bit of the pastry from his eyes, glaring at Noor. "You will regret this!" he exclaims, his voice dripping with fury. "At least your face is pretty now" Noor smirks "pastry sweet bhi hai oh aur isme heart bhi bana hua tha sweetheart" her voice pressing on the word sweetheart Avyan, witnessing the chaos, mutters under his breath, "MIC DROP!" "On the brighter side, strawberry is your favorite flavor, Mustufa," Avyan chimes in, causing another round of laughter. Avyan holds up his phone, clearly recording the entire scene. "Got this on video, Mustufa!" "Delete this immediately!" Mustufa demands, trying to wipe the pastry off his face. "Not even in your wildest dreams," Avyan grins. He turns to Noor. "By the way, Noor, right? You're really awesome." Noor and Avyan share a fist bump, sealing the moment with a sense of camaraderie. However this moment thankfully faded out the actual triggering dispute of me and Fahad. All along their banter Ahad stood their containing something incomprehensible in his eyes. Everyone around is still laughing, the tension from earlier completely dissolved. It's moments like these that remind me why I cherish these friends, and why Noor is my safe place.
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