Chapter 6: "Threads of Relationships and the Foundation of the Future"
The college was buzzing with excitement as preparations for the Art & Culture Fest were in full swing.
From stage decorations to the script of the play — everything radiated youthful energy.
Aarav and Priya had been assigned to the same team.
Their task? Design the fest's theme poster and handle social media promotions.
"So, Mr. Strategist, what's your plan?" Priya asked with playful curiosity.
"The plan is to make a poster that touches people's hearts... and blows up in views,"
Aarav said, lifting his phone, "This little device is my new weapon."
"Oh wow! Looks like you've become a full-fledged investor cum designer now!"
"And you… designer cum motivator!"
Their laughter echoed — as if the wounds of the past had lightened, just a little.
---
Evening – College Library
Aarav sat quietly in a corner, eyes glued to the graphs on the Groww app.
"The market's sideways right now... but next year, when the lockdown hits, pharma stocks will soar,"
he thought to himself.
He marked Cipla and Dr. Reddy's Labs.
Where did the investment money come from?
A few days ago, he sold off some old gadgets on OLX —
a Bluetooth speaker, an unused camera, and a digital watch.
He got around ₹4500 for them.
Out of that, he decided to invest ₹2000 in the stock market and keep the rest for emergencies.
"I'll start small… and cash out big at the right time."
Just then, Priya walked over.
"Investor sir, stock market even in the library?"
"Just trying to learn, Priya… I don't want to waste the time I've been gifted."
She sat beside him.
"Then learn to invest in the stocks of the heart too — like friendship, trust, and relationships."
Aarav smiled.
"I'm learning that with you."
---
Night – At Home
Aarav sat down to have dinner with his mother.
"Beta, you've changed a lot… you speak less now, but your eyes say so much more,"
his mother said softly, placing her hand on his head.
Aarav paused for a moment and then smiled.
"Just growing up, Mom. Trying to become a little wiser."
She held his hand.
"Growing up is fine… but don't lose the child in your heart."
His eyes welled up.
He knew… this moment, this time — it wasn't forever.
---
Next Day – College Grounds
Poster drafting was in progress.
Priya was showing him a rough design on her phone.
"How does this color look?" she asked.
"It matches your eyes,"
Aarav replied quietly.
Priya blushed a little.
"Oh really? Flirting now?"
"Nope... just an observation,"
he said with a smile.
She teased back,
"Observation or compliment… either way, I liked it."
---
Afternoon – College Canteen
They sat discussing the poster over chai and sandwiches.
"Priya, do you ever feel like… we make good friends?" Aarav asked suddenly.
"Yes… and sometimes I feel like you're the most honest person I know,"
she replied, sincerity in her tone.
Aarav paused, then said,
"I've been in love before… but now, I want love with maturity — not just emotions."
Priya looked into his eyes.
"Then let's start with friendship… and see where this bond takes us."
---
Night – Alone in His Room
Aarav invested another ₹1000 — this time in Divi's Lab and HUL.
He created a new note on his phone:
Future Strategy – Part 2:
Keep relationships slow and real
Begin stocks with small caps
Give a great fest presentation
Spend more time with Mom
He was beginning to understand —
Time travel hadn't given him a second chance to live again,
but a second chance to understand life better.
---
Fest Day – College Auditorium
The poster was up in all its glory — "Artists of Tomorrow, Heroes of Today."
Students were impressed. Teachers praised the creativity.
As they stepped down from the stage, Priya looked at Aarav.
"We make a good team, don't we?"
Aarav laughed.
"Professional and emotional."
Priya said softly,
"Don't break my trust, Aarav."
Aarav looked at her with calm resolve.
"This time… I won't even betray myself."