After a discussion between the two, it was decided that
Adrian and Sophie would go to Adrian’s older sister’s house outside the city.
On the day of the trip, Adrian hired a taxi.
Sophie was surprised and said,
— What was the need to get a taxi? I ​​could have gone in a regular cab.
Adrian smiled and said,
— I’m going on a trip with my Sophie—is this a common thing?
Sophie smiled softly. A wonderful charm seemed to spread in her smile.
As the journey towards the destination began, Sophie suddenly broke the silence and sang —
“You called me to invite you for a holiday,
You invited me…”
Sophie didn’t realize when Adrian had put his head on Sophie’s shoulder.
As the song stopped, Adrian said,
— Why did you stop, Sophie? It sounded so good.
— That’s too much of an exaggeration on your part. And it’s become a habit of yours.
— Is it a bad habit?
— I don’t know if it’s bad, but it’s an excess.
— If I don’t overdo it for my Sophie, then who will I do it for?
Sophie laughed again. Suddenly she stopped laughing and said,
— Adrian, you weren’t told. Kaniel wanted to go out with me.
— What did you say?
— I told him no.
Adrian moved his head away from Sophie’s shoulder and said,
— Sophie, Caniel is not a good boy at all.
— I know.
— You could have avoided him in some other way than telling him directly. Besides…
— Besides what?
— If Caniel finds out you went out with me, he’ll be even more upset.
— What do I care if Caniel gets upset?
— Nothing. But…
— But what?
— It’s also important to be careful.
— So I’m going to agree to what he says?
— No, why would that be?
Sophie gently stroked Adrian’s hair and said,
— Leave all this aside. Let’s enjoy the joy of the trip.
Adrian smiled and said,
— Of course. You sing very beautifully. Please sing another song. We’ll reach our destination as soon as we hear the song.
Sophie smiled mischievously and said,
— And you’ll rest your head on my shoulder and relax, right?
They both laughed together.
In the front rear-view mirror, the taxi driver also smiled and joined in their laughter.

To be continued…

The post Story – The magic of Late Afternoon appeared first on shailobd.com.

Sophie thought to herself that Adrian might be waiting for her on the road. But she couldn’t see Adrian anywhere along the way. Her chest burned with anger.
When she returned home, she closed the door of her room and cried for a long time. When the maid came to call her for dinner, she also spoke to her angrily.
As she watched, the setting sun of the afternoon spread the color of the azure in the western sky and disappeared beyond the horizon.

Sophie loved standing on the balcony every afternoon to look at the sky. The vast blue sky, the floating clouds and the play of colors gave her a strange peace. Sometimes, while looking at the sky, she also remembered Adrian. For some reason, an unknown emptiness arose deep in her heart.
But today, she didn’t come to the balcony this afternoon.
After dusk, she slowly came to the balcony with her hair open. The newly risen moon was spreading a gentle light through the dark sky. Sophie stared at the moon in fascination. Suddenly, a long, stifled breath escaped from her chest.
Just then, someone called out softly—
— “Sophie…”
She was startled and looked back.
Adrian was standing.
— You!
— Yes, me.
— When did you come?
— A little while ago
— Then why didn’t you tell me?
Adrian smiled softly,
— I was watching you.
— Why?
— The silence of the evening and you seemed so beautiful together. But tell me, why are you so sad today?

Sophie gently stroked her open hair and said,
— I thought you would stand on the path and wait for me.
Adrian smiled and said,
— Would that really be good?
Sophie was silent for a moment and said,
— Why?
— If anyone had seen me standing there, especially Keniel, he would have had more of a chance.
Sophie seemed to be suddenly startled.
After thinking for a while, she said slowly,
— Really! I didn’t think like that. How did you figure it out so quickly?
She paused and said again,
— Your thoughts are really deep. Maybe mine aren’t. But you know, I was very angry with you.
Suddenly, she put her hand to her eyes and said,
— Oh, Adrian… I feel like there’s something in my eyes. Please, take a look.

Adrian slowly came forward.
The two were now facing each other.
He gently opened Sophie’s eyelids and blew softly,
— Maybe a small insect or a speck of dust. Now open your eyes slowly.
Sophie slowly opened her eyes.
Adrian felt the gentle scent of Sophie’s wet hair from very close. At the touch of his warm breath, Sophie’s open hair swayed in the light breeze.

To be continued…

Written by – Ashish kumer banik
(This reflection is based on a real-life experience personally witnessed by the author.
Names and certain details have been adapted to protect privacy while preserving the essence of the story)

The post Story – The magic of Late Afternoon appeared first on shailobd.com.

The college campus buzzed with excitement as students gathered in small groups, celebrating the release of their examination results.
Adrian was chatting with a few classmates when he heard a familiar voice behind him.
“Congratulations,” Sophie said with a warm smile.
“You’ve maintained your outstanding results once again.”
“Thank you,” Adrian replied. “You did very well too, Sophie.”
“I only managed because of your help.”
Adrian smiled gently.
“I’ve taken a lot from you too.”
Sophie looked at him curiously.
“Really? How?”
“You were my greatest source of motivation.”
A faint blush crossed Sophie’s face.
“You certainly know how to flatter someone.”
Adrian chuckled.
“I’ve been meaning to tell you something.”
“What is it?”
“Not now. Let’s talk after classes.”
“All right.”
With a gentle smile, Sophie excused herself and walked away.
As soon as she was out of earshot, one of Adrian’s classmates whispered,
“I think Sophie really likes you.”
Another student scoffed.
“Like! I know girls from rich families well. They build relationships for their own needs. And when their needs are gone, they move away.”
“Oh, come on, Simon,” another classmate interrupted. “Don’t say things like that. Adrian will feel uncomfortable.
Besides, Sophie has always been a good friend to him.”
Simon lowered his head.
“Sorry, Adrian.”
Adrian, however, showed no sign of being offended. He simply smiled as though he hadn’t heard the conversation.
“It looks like our professor is about to arrive,” he said calmly. “Let’s head to class.”
They left the premises in silence.

When classes ended, Adrian and Sophie walked out of the college building together.
As soon as they reached the street, someone called out from behind
“Sophie!”
She turned around.
It was Keniel, waving at her with a smile.
“Hi, Sophie.”
“Hi.”
As he approached, he said politely,
“I’d like to talk to you for a moment. Do you have a little time?”
Sophie thought for a moment. Then she said to Adrian:
“Go ahead, Adrian. I’ll catch up with you.”
Adrian nodded quietly and continued walking.
After he had gone, Sophie looked at Keniel.
“Okay. Tell me?”
“Thank you.”
He paused for a moment before continuing.
“Sophie, I can’t speak poetically. I prefer to speak directly.”
“I’m listening.”
“I’d really like to spend some time with you… perhaps we could go somewhere together.”
Sophie looked at him calmly.
“Where exactly?”
“Maybe a park… or by the lakeside.”
She studied his face for a moment.
“May I ask what suddenly inspired this idea?”
Keniel smiled awkwardly.
“Sophie, I told you before — I can’t speak in poetry.”
“And asking why you want to spend time with me isn’t poetry,” Sophie replied gently. “It’s simply a reasonable question.”
Keniel shrugged.
“I don’t think it’s polite to ask why someone wants to go out with someone.”
Sophie remained composed.
“I’m not interested in arguing with you. But I want to be honest. I don’t have any desire to go anywhere with anyone.”
Keniel quickly replied,
“You can take Adrian with you if you want. I have no objections.”
“I’m sorry,” Sophie answered. “I don’t make personal decisions like that without my family’s permission. And honestly… I don’t want to.”
Keniel frowned slightly.
“Come on, Sophie. You’re old enough to make your own decisions.”
“And?”
“And you’re intelligent. You’re perfectly capable of deciding for yourself.”
Sophie’s expression became more serious.
“Are you trying to pressure me?”
Keniel immediately shook his head.
“No. Not at all. I just think there’s nothing wrong with two friends spending time together.”
“I’m sorry,” Sophie said politely. “I’m getting late. I should go.”
As she turned to leave, Keniel called after her.
“What if I told you Adrian is waiting for you down the road?“
Sophie didn’t answer.
Without looking back, she quietly walked away,Without looking back, he walked away silently, leaving Keniel standing alone.

• To be continued – story (Part – 06)

The post  Story serial – The magic of Late Afternoon  appeared first on shailobd.com.

While I was in college, I used to stay in a village house near the college. There was still no electricity supply in the village. The festival of lights was only oil wells and hurricane lights. After the students finished their studies, I often had to wake up at night to get my college studies ready. I was afraid to sleep alone at night, so one of my uncle’s relatives slept with me.
It was an autumn night. There was a slight chill in the village. That night, I felt uncomfortable while studying. I don’t know when I had fallen asleep in the bed.
Suddenly, I woke up in the middle of the night. I noticed that my uncle’s relative, who was sleeping next to me, was crying repeatedly. I thought that maybe something was happening in his sleep. I tried to wake him up. But he didn’t listen to anything I said and just kept crying. Suddenly, I noticed that someone was beating him severely. I jumped up in great fear. I tried to look back. I saw two tall, slender men standing in front of the bed. Both of them were holding iron rods. A man was beating my uncle with an iron rod as he wanted.
By mistake, the hurricane light was not turned off that night. So the robbers were quite visible in the hurricane light. My luck was so good that even a rod did not hit me. I did not see any way out and tried to escape from the bed. One of the robbers grabbed me by the throat and caught me like a cat catching a mouse. He pushed me and threw me on the bed and said – lie down quietly. I shook my head. I quickly lay down. He roared again and said – cover your nose and mouth with the sheet. I said okay, and tried to cover my head with my scarf. One of them shouted – give me the watch. I gave it to him without delay. The same voice again – lie down quietly. I will not try to get up. I shook my head in my scarf and said – well, I will not get up at all. I heard another person whispering – this is the study room. We won’t find anything in this room. Let’s go out.
I lay there trembling, turning my head and closing my eyes.
My uncle, who was lying next to me, was still writhing in pain from the iron rod. I didn’t even look back. The robbers locked the door chain from outside as they left.
A newlywed couple lived in the room next to us. They had been married for a few months. I heard the bride crying from that room, and later I heard that the bride, sensing the robber’s presence, had hidden under the bed with money, jewelry, and the key to the chest. When the robbers started beating her husband severely for the key to the chest, the bride came out from under the bed crying. She opened the chest with the key.
After some time, I saw my uncle, who was lying next to me, trying to get out of bed with great difficulty.
I said, “Why are you getting up, uncle?” They told me to lie down quietly. Lie down. Don’t get up.
The uncle roared in a strange way and said – you lie down. Saying this, he jumped out of bed and somehow got out of the room through the roof.
By then the robbers had left. I was still lying down with my moonshine wrapped around my head. Many people were heard shouting outside. The people of the neighborhood came forward. After some time, I slowly got out of bed and came out. I saw many women of the house coming up from the pond, trembling in their wet clothes. I understood that many of them had taken refuge in the pond water out of fear of the robbers. The people present became as busy as they could. Some took the injured to the hospital. Some stayed busy listening to the story of the incident. Some started consoling the crying injured. It is worth noting that I was the only man in the house that night who was unharmed. The robbers did not even touch me. Although the incident seemed quite coincidental, it was true. Suddenly, I saw two men carrying my uncle who was lying next to me to the hospital. I also wanted to accompany them. Seeing me, my uncle roared – why did you come? Just lie down with your head down. Get out of here. Uncle and uncle started crying again.What else should I do? I stood still and stared like a fool. I thought to myself, at this time I had no choice but to stand as a silent spectator.The next morning, as usual, everyone came to see. The chairman of the union council and several members came to visit the robbery on site.I was called to describe the incident. It is worth noting that there were no other male witnesses in the house except me. Everyone was receiving treatment in the hospital.How did I behave with the robbers that night? What was my role, how I was lying down with my head down. I described everything in detail. Hearing my description, some of the people present tried to laugh despite their sorrow. Some were surprised.After the narration, a member said- Sir, I think this boy had some connection with that gang of robbers, otherwise why did the robbers keep him lying there like this, why didn’t they even give him a slap on the face?Another said- Sir, if you tie him up and beat him, the whole truth will come out.
I was shocked. What happened! I didn’t tell any lies. I just told what happened. What did the robbers do to me? Why didn’t they hit me with a rod? Then at least I wouldn’t have had to face such danger. Everyone would have shown more sympathy. Being beaten by the robbers was much better than this. At that moment, my lodging master, Devdut, appeared from nowhere. He shouted- What are you saying? Why are you dragging him into all this? Why would he have any connection with the robbers? He is a brilliant college student. Our lodging teacher.Hearing such strong protests from the lodging owner, some of the people present said – No, no, there is no point in blaming him unnecessarily. He is a polite and humble boy. Don’t involve him in this, sir. Somehow I was saved Otherwise, only God knows what would have happened that day. When I remember that, my head still shakes.

• Really – whomever God saves. What can anyone do to him?

The post A Real Life Story – A Terrifying Night of Robbery appeared first on shailobd.com.

Sophie turned to Keniel —
“Why would you ask something like that?”
Keniel shrugged lightly.
“I heard everything. From behind.”
Sophie frowned.
“That’s not okay. Listening to others like that — it’s a really bad habit.”
Keniel smirked.
“Maybe. But I didn’t want to listen.”
He paused… then added —
“And honestly… it wasn’t unpleasant to listen.”
Adrian stepped forward slightly.
“What do you mean by that?”
Keniel smiled again—
“Nothing important.”
Then he waved casually —
“Goodbye, Sophie.
Goodbye, Adrian.”
He Fast walked away.
For a moment…
Sophie and Adrian stood in silence.
Sophie spoke first —
“I have a feeling… Kennel might take this too far.”
Adrian’s jaw tightened.
“If he does… I won’t let him get away with it.”
Sophie quickly turned to him —
“Please, don’t lose your temper.”
She lowered her voice —
“Keniel’s friends are not very good. I saw them smoking.”
She looked straight into Adrian’s eyes—
“Please don’t get involved with them.”
A pause.
“If anything happens… let me handle it.”
Adrian didn’t respond. He just stood there… silent.
Sophie stepped closer.
“Adrian… promise me.”
Sophie immediately took one of Adrian’s hands in hers.

Sophie’s mother, Marina, returned home.
She opened her vanity bag and handed Sophie two chocolates.
“Here.”
“Thanks, Mom.”
“You’re welcome. Give one to Adrian.”
Sophie paused.
“Adrian didn’t come today.”
Marina nodded slightly and walked into her room.
A few minutes later —
“Sophie, come here.”
Sophie entered quietly.
Marina looked at her and asked —
“If Adrian doesn’t come… will you have trouble keeping up with your studies?”
Sophie replied —
“He’s actually thinking of finding a private tutor for me.”
Marina nodded.
“Yes… I was thinking the same.”
Then she paused.
“ besides—”
Sophie looked at her—
“Besides what, Mom?”
Marina spoke calmly —
“The way you two spend time together… it doesn’t look very appropriate.”
Sophie frowned slightly.
“Adrian is a very good person. And he’s brilliant.”
Marina gave a small nod.
“I know.”
Sophie continued.
“I’ve spoken to Uncle Michael,” “I know about Adrian.”
She softened her voice—
“He lost his father not long ago. He only has his mother and older brother.”
A brief pause.
“Their financial situation isn’t strong either.”
Sophie’s eyes lowered.
“He’s… very vulnerable, Mom.”
Marina sighed quietly.
“I feel for him too.”
Then she looked directly at Sophie —
“But that doesn’t change everything.”
Sophie leaned forward—
“What do you mean?”
Marina gently placed her hand on Sophie’s head
and spoke softly —
“Listen, Sophie… Adrian is young.
Making mistakes without realizing it… is natural for him.”
Sophie replied quietly —
“He’s just a very good friend , Mom.”
Marina sighed.
“That’s exactly what worries me.”
Sophie looked up—
“Why?”
Marina held her gaze —
“What if… he starts to fall in love with you?”
Sophie froze.
Her eyes widened in shock.
It felt like she had suddenly fallen from the sky to the ground.
“Mom…
I’ve never thought about it like that.”
Marina nodded slowly—
“You should.”
Silence filled the room. Heavy. Uncomfortable.
After a moment, Sophie spoke again—
“Mom… what should I do?”
Marina didn’t answer immediately.
Sophie lowered her voice—
“Should I… stay away from Adrian?”
Marina shook her head.
“No.”
Sophie looked confused.
“Then?”
Marina spoke calmly—
“Stay close… but in a way that helps him understand.”
A brief pause.
“So that he realizes things on his own.” “ He can make his own decisions.”
Sophie remained silent.

• To be continued – story > Part -5 (Episode 14-16)

The post Story serial – The magic of Late Afternoon appeared first on shailobd.com.

After class, Sophie and Adrian walked back home together. As soon as Sophie rang the doorbell,
soft meow… meow… sounds came from inside.
Laltu and Bintu. It felt like they had been waiting just for her.
The moment she stepped in, they rushed toward her.
Sophie picked them up in her arms, gently stroking them with affection.
“Missed me, didn’t you?” she whispered softly.
Then she turned to Adrian — “You freshen up. I’ll be back.”
Still holding the kittens, she walked into her room.
A few moments later —
“Adrian… come.” “Lunch is ready.”
Adrian stepped in. For a moment… he paused.
Sophie stood there in a soft yellow dress,
light floral patterns dancing across the fabric.
She looked… effortlessly graceful.
Adrian couldn’t look away.
Sophie noticed.
A soft smile curved on her lips —
“Adrian…
you’re not supposed to stare like that while eating.”
He looked away, slightly embarrassed.
“Finish your meal quickly,” she added gently.
“Then get some rest.”
A brief pause—
“After that… we’ll work on assignment.”
Adrian nodded silently.
But inside — something felt different.
Something… warm.
The wall clock struck nine. Sophie glanced at it and said —
“Looks like you’re not going back to your room tonight. Stay here after dinner.”
Adrian hesitated.
“I can go back, Sophie.”
She looked at him calmly —
“I didn’t say you can’t go. I said… you should stay tonight.”
Adrian paused.
Sophie said — “But—”
Adrian — “But what?”
Sophie leaned closer, a playful smile on her lips.
Then she whispered softly near his ear —
“Separate rooms.”
They both burst into laughter.
Still laughing, Adrian said — “Why not the same room?”
Sophie raised an eyebrow — a spark of mischief in her eyes.
“Oh… so much courage. I thought you were shy, Adrian. But—”
“But what?”
Sophie shook her head teasingly.
“No… I shouldn’t say it. You might get even more desperate.”
Adrian smiled, a little embarrassed.
“Come on, Sophie… tell me.”
Sophie gently tapped his head with her fist —
“The ‘but’… is your head—and my head.”
She laughed out loud.
From the next room, her mother’s voice came —
“Sophie! Are you studying or just laughing?”
Sophie quickly replied — “Studying, Mom!”
Then she turned back to Adrian — “You keep studying.
I’ll go manage her.”
With that, she hurried out of the room.
Adrian sat there… smiling to himself.
Soft morning light filtered through the eucalyptus leaves,
spreading gently across the college campus.
Students slowly filled the pathways,
their footsteps bringing the place back to life.

Sophie and Adrian walked in together.
Sophie glanced at him with a soft smile —
“So… you slept well last night?”
Adrian nodded.
“Yeah. I really did.”
“But I couldn’t sleep a bit.”
Adrian turned, surprised.
“Why?”
Sophie smiled faintly —
“Every time I was about to fall asleep…
it felt like you were knocking on my door—
calling my name.”
Adrian paused.
“And if I actually did that… what would you do?”
Sophie stopped for a second — then laughed—
“I’d scream. Loudly. ‘Help! Someone save me!’”
She burst into laughter.
A voice came from behind—
“Good morning, Sophie.”
She quickly turned.
“Good morning. How are you, Keniel?”
“I’m good.”
Then he looked at Adrian —
“Good morning, Adrian.”
“Good morning,” Adrian replied.
Keniel said with a smile, “Isn’t Adrian enough to protect you, Sophie?”
Suddenly the scene changed.

• To be continued – story (Episode> Part -4 > 10 – 12)

The post Story – The magic of Late Afternoon appeared first on shailobd.com.

After lunch, Adrian leaned back against his pillow.
He kept waiting for evening to arrive.
His mind wandered again and again — back to Sophie’s face.
That soft, gentle smile…he couldn’t forget it.
Somewhere between those thoughts, his eyes slowly closed.

When Adrian woke up, evening had almost passed.
He quickly got ready and stepped outside.
The pathway shimmered under the soft glow of streetlights.
The green grass sparkled beneath them as he walked, taking long, hurried steps.
He climbed up to the third floor and pressed the doorbell.
The door opened. Sophie stood there.
“Good evening… you’re late,” she said with a soft smile.
“Good evening,” Adrian replied.
“I’ve been waiting for you. Come in.”
A little hesitant, Adrian stepped inside.
Sophie gestured him to sit and gently placed the two kittens from her lap onto the floor.
“Sit… I’ll be right back.”
She walked into the other room.

Adrian sat down on the sofa — but it sank slightly beneath him. Embarrassed, he adjusted himself,
glancing around the room.
Suddenly — The two kittens started meowing and jumped toward him.
Startled, Adrian stood up, trying to push them away. But instead, they came closer.
Helpless, he picked them up and placed them on another sofa — a little more forcefully than he intended.
The kittens cried out loudly.
Just then—
Sophie walked back into the room.
Sophie quickly picked up the two kittens, holding them close. She kissed their tiny faces, gently stroking their heads.
In her arms, they calmed down — resting quietly against her soft warmth.
Without looking at Adrian, she said—
“Did you hurt my Laltu and Bintu?”
Adrian hesitated.
“No… I mean… I just don’t like cats.”
Sophie looked at him this time.
“You know how much they mean to me? I can’t tolerate even the slightest neglect toward them.”
Adrian lowered his voice.
“I’m sorry… I didn’t know.”
Sophie paused for a moment… then sighed softly.
“It’s okay. Just don’t hurt them again. It would really hurt me.”
Adrian quickly replied—
“No… I would never do anything that hurts you.”
A faint smile touched Sophie’s lips.
“Good.”
She sat down and asked—
“So… what would you like to have?”
Adrian shook his head.
“No thanks. Your company is enough.”
Sophie burst into laughter. Adrian looked confused.
“Why are you laughing?”
“You’re so naïve.”
“Why?
“Does company fill your stomach?”
Sophie smiled—
“Of course not.”
Then she added — “My parents aren’t home. My sister will be late too.
It’s just me and my grandmother.
So tell me — what would you like to eat? I’ll make it.”
Adrian stayed silent.
“Alright,”
Sophie said, standing up,
“I’ll bring coffee.”
Then she paused at the door.
“But…”
Adrian looked up.
“But what?”
Sophie smiled playfully—
“I’m not leaving my Laltu and Bintu with you.”
She gently picked them up and walked out of the room.
Adrian watched her go…quietly.
All the teachers were busy in an urgent meeting. The classroom was without supervision.
Some students were gossiping. Some were laughing loudly. Others were scribbling nonsense on the board.
Adrian sat quietly in a corner, eyes closed… humming softly —
“”You are standing on the shore of my song…””
A gentle touch on his head broke the moment.
He opened his eyes. Sophie was standing beside him.
Adrian quickly tried to get up.
“You…”
Sophie smiled—
“Yes, me. But—
I do have a beautiful name. Sophie.”
Adrian smiled back.
“It suits you. Sophie is a beautiful name.”
“Then call me by that name. I’d like that.”
“Alright… Sophie.”
She paused for a moment, then said—
“I have a question.”
“Go ahead.”
Sophie leaned slightly closer—
“Who is standing beyond your song, Adrian?”
Adrian hesitated.
“No… I mean… no one.”
He wanted to say — It’s you.
But the words never came out. He stayed silent.
Sophie smiled again—
That smile… felt like the world had paused just to admire it.
After a moment, she said—
“I found the last class assignment a bit difficult. Will you help me?”
“Of course,” Adrian replied.
“Good. Then after class…
you’re coming to my place.”
Adrian didn’t say anything. But his silence… was enough.

• To be continued – story (Episode> 8-10)

The post Story -The magic of Late Afternoon appeared first on shailobd.com.

Episode 1 – The Call
The mobile phone rang. Sophie reluctantly picked up the phone and pressed the yes button.
— How are you Sophie?
A very emotional and charming voice. Which was mesmerizing.
Surprised, Sophie thought for a moment. This is how he called by name —
Sophie replied – Please, what is your identity?
A voice came from the other end without hesitation
— I am Adrian.
Suddenly, electricity seemed to play throughout her body. All the annoyance disappeared in an instant. Sophie became a different person. The coldest touch of all the accumulated love in the world seemed to cool her down with utmost care.
The pure stream of love was sending waves of happiness throughout her body and mind.
Sophie’s silence made Adrian think .
Adrian said again — Hello.
With a sigh, Sophie asked,
—How are you Adrian?
— Good.
— Adrian, where have you been all this time?
Unanswered Adrian
— I have searched for you in many ways.I have asked people I know for your address but I have not found it.
— “Why were you looking for me?”
— I will beg for your forgiveness.
Adrian was unprepared for such an answer. So he remained silent.
Noticing Adrian’s silence, Sophie said
— Please Adrian. Don’t be silent like this. Say you will forgive.
— You have no crime. Why are you only trying to make me a criminal by apologizing?
— Adrian, that is your greatness. To whom destiny has placed me. — Greatness never tries to belittle anyone.
— So I assume my idea is correct?
— What?
— I am not even worthy of forgiveness.
— No, Sophie. Don’t say that. I couldn’t even muster the courage to forgive you.
— But Adrian. I really need your forgiveness today. Just as the dark world wants to be purified by the rays of the sun shining in the eastern sky, removing all its darkness, so too will I be purified by your forgiveness.
— Illusion. Sophie. All is an illusion of your mind.
— Adrian I will meet you. Please allow me.
— What will happen if I meet you?
— At least I will get the opportunity to apologize from close quarters.
— Am I that lucky?
— The one who chooses the flower knows which flower can be offered to which god. And how much happiness. How much peace there is in that offering.
Adrian let out a deep sigh without realizing it.
A deep sigh escaped him.
“Alright… I’ll send you the address.”
Even after all these years…Why does this weakness still exist?
After all these years… why does this weakness still remain?
Why does his voice still make my heart flutter?
Adrian thought.
If I hadn’t accidentally met Emily Carter that day, if I hadn’t taken Sophie’s phone number – would everything have been okay?
But was there still a faint breath deep in his heart?
That might have shed a bright light of joy.
Or was there still something alive — hidden deep in his heart?
Something that still shines — like soft moonlight in the darkness.
A beautiful light has come and gathered in the college corridor. Rows of tree shadows have proudly competed to stand tall. Adrian stood in the corridor. Suddenly, he heard sweet voice and looked back.
The beautiful sunlight and Sophie’s sweet smile seemed to merge into one. Adrian said in surprise –
– Are you talking to me?
— Yes.
— Tell me.
— Your name is Adrian?
— Yes. But –
— How did I know?
Sophie’s simple smile – like a great rhythmic waterfall, her ever-changing nature fascinated Adrian.
— My name is Sophie. I live in the teachers’ staff quarters. I heard you from Uncle Michael.
— Okay.
— “Come by this evening… we can talk.”

The college campus was alive with color.
Trees lined the pathways, their leaves shimmering softly in the afternoon light. The garden bloomed with flowers of every shade, while butterflies wandered freely from one to another.
Tall eucalyptus trees stood proudly at the center, casting long, gentle shadows.
Near the boundary wall, a flame tree swayed lazily in the breeze — its presence filling the air with a quiet sense of peace.
Adrian stood there, still.
Sophie’s footsteps…
though long gone… felt like they were still calling him.
Pulling him into a world that didn’t exist — a place made of dreams,
where everything felt possible, where happiness had no end.
A sudden touch on his shoulder broke the moment.
Adrian turned. Chandan stood behind him.
“Hey, what are you doing here? Not going back to your room?”
“Yeah… let’s go.”
They started walking.
After a moment, Chandan spoke —
“You’re really lucky, you know.”
Adrian’s heart skipped. Did he just read my mind?
But Chandan continued —“I always wanted to study your subject… but I couldn’t.
And you — you got exactly what you wanted.”
Adrian felt a quiet smile form inside him.
No… I found something more than what I wanted.
But he said nothing.
Chandan kept talking — about this, about that —
But Adrian wasn’t really listening anymore.
His thoughts were somewhere else.
After a while, Chandan headed toward his room.
Adrian walked into his own.

> To be continued – story – Part Two (Episodes 5-7 Complete)

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An Unexpected Letter –
I was a student of class 8 at that time. The market was located about a kilometer away from the village. The post office was in that market. The post office was the best means of communication at that time. My uncle had a shop in that market. That is why everyone in the house used the address of Uncle’s shop as the address for correspondence. Uncle had a very interesting hobby, that is – whoever received a letter at his address, he would open it himself and then deliver it to the specific recipient. Who knows, maybe he enjoyed it.
One evening, Uncle came and stood in the courtyard and called my name in a serious voice. I responded to his call with some fear and some hesitation. Mother was busy with the evening puja. Mother quickly left her seat and came out with me. Uncle handed me an envelope filled with letters and said – Your letter.
Mother called out from behind – Whose letter? Where did it come from.
Uncle said in a more serious voice – Ask him. Then he said to me – put these things out of your mind and concentrate on your studies. Saying this, he made a prayer. Mother was a little surprised and said – read it. I was not only surprised but also felt a sense of relief inside. I could not believe that my letter was there. That too, addressed to Uncle.
Seeing the torn part of the envelope, I could not help but understand that my uncle had read this letter. Without saying anything, I took the letter and went inside the house. Mother followed me into my room.

. A Letter That Was Not Mine –
The letter was a secret, deep love letter.
Mother said – What happened? Whose letter?
I said – I don’t know. But the letter is not mine.
Mother went to the sitting room without further ado. I read the letter again and again.
The language and the incident of the letter were so deep in love that anyone who reads this letter will have the opportunity to put me in the position of a successful lover. I wonder how this letter came to my address?
I read the recipient’s address quite well, my name and address were written in the recipient’s address. I thought to myself, what a scandal has happened. How can I prove that this letter is not from someone I know? I thought to myself that it is not unusual for my uncle to be angry. At this age, no guardian would accept such a blunder. I felt very bad.
I went to my mother like a criminal even though I had not committed any crime. Noticing my hubris, my mother said – what happened, whose letter did you say? Why are you acting like this?
I told my mother everything that happened. After hearing everything, my mother said – what is your fault in this? Anyone can receive a letter to such a wrong address. Leave the letter.

. The Rumors Begin –
If someone finds out one day, I feel relieved because my mother took the incident as normal, but how can I explain it to others?
My love story started to become quite popular in the entire neighborhood.
One day, on my way back from school, one of my uncle’s relatives said – why are you making love so quickly?
Do you have any interest in studying? Or have you even learned that? I bowed my head. When I got home, I told my mother.
Mother consoled and said- Whatever he says, you should stay in your place, father. If you are good, the world is good. What anyone says will not affect you.

. The Cousin Who Changed Everything –
A few years later, I was an SSC examinee. A cousin of mine came to visit our house. He had a very beautiful and smiling face. Anyone who saw him would like him. He would want to love him. That is normal. At that time, I was busy preparing for the exam.
Many people in the neighborhood would come to see me for no reason just to catch a glimpse of my cousin.
Even though I understood their intentions, I would avoid them skillfully. The exam time approached. The exam center was very far away. That is why my father rented a room and sent me there long before the exam. On the day of my departure, my cousin’s eyes became quite mischievous.
He said- Maybe we will not meet again. I smiled and said- Why not? I will go to see you after completing my SSC exam. Hearing my words, a fountain of happiness started flowing in my cousin’s eyes. – Are you really going?
I said- Of course I will.
The first day of the SSC exam went well and I felt very happy inside. After the exam, I told my father, “Dad, I have three days off before the next exam. Should I leave the house?” My father agreed to my request. He said, “Okay. You will come back tomorrow.
Your mother will be happy.”

. A Confession I Never Expected –
After finishing the exam, I returned home with my father that evening. My cousin was staying at our house until then. Seeing me again made me feel like I was floating in a sea of ​​happiness.
I was sitting at the study table. My cousin pulled a chair and sat next to me. This was the first time he sat very close to me. He whispered, “There is so much going on. Do you think I don’t understand anything?” I was quite surprised and said, “I mean!”
“I mean. What is this? That love letter in my cousin’s hand.” I said, “This letter is not mine.”
My cousin laughed and said, “You think I am stupid, don’t you?” After you left, I was looking for books in your drawer and found this love letter. Wow, such deep love. Can anyone write to someone about such deep love?
I didn’t go to you to hear your love story, I went there and there. I will leave tomorrow.
I swore – believe me, this love letter is not mine. I don’t even know how it got to my address.
Cousin smiled again and said – Wait. It’s done. You don’t have to explain anymore.
I understand what needs to be understood.
Now understand what I’m saying – I love you.

. The Final Letter –
I finished my SSC exam. Again, my uncle called me and gave me a letter. I was surprised. The envelope of this letter was intact, that is, uncle had not read the letter.
Father said – whose letter is it? Give it to me. I handed the letter to my father. Opening the envelope, father read the letter and handed it to me without answering.
I saw the letter written by my cousin –
My father stood and waited until I finished reading the letter. I understood that my father might say something.
When I finished reading the letter, my father asked in a calm voice, “Do you want to answer this letter?“
I looked at my father’s calm and gentle face and said – No, father. I will not write.

. A Memory That Never Faded –
This time the letter is not a love letter, but it is undoubtedly one that gives rise to quite an emotional moment.
Some words of that letter are still stored in my memory, which when I think of them, I still remember the happy moments of my childhood.
So finally, I have presented some parts of the last part of that letter for the reader – the last part of the letter –
Many travelers come and go along the river, the boatman does not keep any notice of them.
But suddenly, the boatman becomes blessed at the touch of a traveler’s foot. You are the same in my life-

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Soft morning light filtered through the eucalyptus leaves,
spreading gently across the college campus.
Students slowly filled the pathways,
their footsteps bringing the place back to life.
Sophie and Adrian walked in together.
Sophie glanced at him with a soft smile —
“So… you slept well last night?”
Adrian nodded.
“Yeah. I really did.”
“But I couldn’t sleep a bit.”
Adrian turned, surprised.
“Why?”
Sophie smiled faintly —
“Every time I was about to fall asleep…
it felt like you were knocking on my door—
calling my name.”
Adrian paused.
“And if I actually did that… what would you do?”
Sophie stopped for a second — then laughed—
“I’d scream. Loudly. ‘Help! Someone save me!’”
She burst into laughter.
A voice came from behind—
“Good morning, Sophie.”
She quickly turned.
“Good morning. How are you, Keniel?”
“I’m good.”
Then he looked at Adrian —
“Good morning, Adrian.”
“Good morning,” Adrian replied.
Caniel said with a smile, “Isn’t Adrian enough to protect you, Sophie?”
Suddenly the scene changed.

• To be continued – story (Episode – 5B)
• “Next episode coming on – Saturday”

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