The Unexpected Love Story

flame. They constantly remind you of her, making you think about her until you find yourself slowly, inexorably falling in love. This is my journey, a tale of unexpected twists, laughter, and a touch of magic.

It all started one ordinary day. I mentioned to my best friend that a girl at school looked good. I didn't think much of it, but my friend, ever the romantic, seemed to take it as a declaration of love. I tried to clarify, explaining that I admired her because she was the most beautiful and intelligent girl at school. Her style was impeccable, and her simplicity and natural beauty were captivating. Her name was Pihu, and though we had been classmates for a year, we had never spoken. We knew each other by name, nothing more. But I noticed her, her radiant smile even when she was just chewing gum, her laughter among friends, admired by everyone.

Then, out of the blue, Pihu approached me one day. "What were you saying to Bhawna?" she asked. Bhawna, her best friend, was also mine. I was taken aback. Pihu had never spoken to me before, and now she was asking if I loved her. I was confused, thinking maybe Bhawna had told her something. It was true I liked Pihu—who wouldn't?—but love? I didn't know. After that bewildering conversation, we didn't speak again, but I noticed Pihu started paying more attention to me.

My friends began teasing me mercilessly about her, which was both embarrassing and endearing. Pihu, ever the sport, often laughed along, her open-minded nature shining through. Over time, I got used to it. Her graceful walk, her magnetic presence, always caught my attention, but we still didn’t talk. Just exchanged shy smiles or sometimes, pretended not to see each other.

One evening, a message popped up on my phone. It was Pihu, probably getting my number from Bhawna. "Have you reached home?" her message read. Her profile picture showed her in jeans and a kurta, looking effortlessly beautiful. I replied jokingly, "No, I'm waiting for you." She shot back, "I'm not coming to your house; it would be good for your home if you don’t wait for me."

Our conversation began flirtatious but soon turned into something deeper. We talked about school, our dreams, and everything in between. I realized she wasn’t the high-maintenance girl I had imagined; she was simple, kind-hearted, and incredibly wise. We chatted for days, but then suddenly, she blocked me, leaving me puzzled. At school, we didn't talk, focusing on upcoming exams. Yet, I couldn't get her out of my mind.

After the exams and during the holidays, I received a friend request from Pihu on Facebook. Her profile picture, a cute little girl, made me smile. I accepted, and she messaged, "How are you doing?" Her unexpected message made my heart leap. We began chatting daily, and I got to know her better. She shared stories about her life, her likes and dislikes, and the funny incidents that made her who she was. Her conversations were a delightful mix of seriousness and playful banter. I looked forward to her messages every day.

Our exam results came, and Pihu topped the class. I asked her for a celebratory treat, but she seemed disappointed with her marks, expecting more. She also shared that she was moving to Nainital for higher studies. We wished each other well, and I moved to Delhi for mine. Despite the distance, our bond grew stronger. Her smile became a cherished part of my day, and we supported each other's dreams and happiness.

As time passed, I realized I was in love with Pihu. I thought about her constantly, cherishing our conversations. But I was afraid to tell her, fearing it might ruin our friendship. On her birthday, I sent her a surprise gift—chocolates and a card. She was thrilled and hadn't expected it at all. Knowing I made her happy felt like magic.

Years passed, and we talked less frequently, but my feelings for her never faded. Finally, after three long years, we planned to meet. I was nervous and excited, having never talked face-to-face before. The day we met was perfect, with sunlight dappling through the trees and a gentle breeze. Seeing her up close, her beautiful brown eyes and radiant smile made my heart skip a beat. We talked for hours and had an amazing time together.

That day felt like a lifetime compressed into a few hours. This is the true story of my beautiful journey with Pihu, filled with laughter, tears, and a love that grew in the most unexpected ways.