SΞЯΞИDIPIΓУ - Synplace

After reaching home earlier than expected, Arin and Ira wasted no time helping their mother with household chores and some remaining shifting tasks. The three of them worked together seamlessly—cleaning, organizing, and rearranging things until the house looked neat and cozy again. Though it was tiring, the shared effort made it enjoyable, filled with laughter and lighthearted teasing.

By the time they finished, the sun had long since set, and a layer of dust clung to their clothes. Feeling exhausted but satisfied, Arin and Ira quickly freshened up, washing away the grime from the day’s work. The scent of warm food greeted them as they stepped into the dining room, and they eagerly took their seats at the table, their stomachs rumbling in anticipation.

As Arin took his first bite, he paused, chewing slowly with a thoughtful expression. He glanced at Ira, who had a similar reaction. Then, looking at their mother, he asked, “Hey, Mom… did you order this food? It doesn’t taste like your homemade cooking.”

Ira nodded in agreement. “Yeah, it tastes really different—like restaurant food.”

Their mother, who was already halfway through her meal, sighed dramatically and leaned back slightly. “Of course, I ordered it,” she admitted, raising an eyebrow at them. “How on earth was I supposed to cook after doing all those chores alone while you two were busy taking long baths?”

Arin chuckled, shaking his head. “Mom, we were just asking, not blaming you.” He grinned and added, “Though… I have to say, your homemade food is still way better than anything from a restaurant.”

Ira smiled warmly. “Yeah, Mom. Nothing beats your cooking.”

Their mother, though pretending to be annoyed, couldn’t hide the small, pleased smile tugging at her lips. “Alright, alright,” she said, waving her hand dismissively. “Now stop getting sentimental and just eat. You both must be starving.”

As they ate, the cozy atmosphere of home wrapped around them like a comforting embrace. The clinking of cutlery, soft laughter, and playful banter filled the air, making the exhaustion of the day seem like a distant memory.

Once they finished their meal, their mother clapped her hands together and gave them a pointed look. “Okay, now that your stomachs are full, get everything ready for tomorrow. I don’t want to hear any last-minute scrambling in the morning.”

Arin and Ira exchanged playful glances before grinning at their mother in unison. “Roger, Captain!” they chimed, giving exaggerated salutes.

Their mother rolled her eyes but couldn’t help laughing at their antics. “Go on, you little troublemakers.”

After clearing the table and helping with the dishes, Arin and Ira went to their room to pack for the next day. Arin carefully separated his office essentials while Ira organized her school supplies, making sure everything was in place. Once they were satisfied, they changed into their nightclothes and climbed into bed.

As the house settled into a peaceful silence, Ira softly, “Goodnight, bhai.”

Arin, already half-asleep, murmured back, “Goodnight, Ira.”

Their mother, listening from her own room, smiled to herself, feeling grateful for the simple yet precious moments they shared. With hearts full and minds at ease, the family drifted off into a restful sleep, ready to face a new day.

The next morning, just as the sky began to lighten with the soft hues of dawn, Arin woke up before anyone else in the house. Moving quietly, he slipped out of bed and went to freshen up. The cool splash of water against his face jolted him fully awake, and soon, he was dressed in his neatly pressed office attire, ready to take on the day.

Glancing at the clock, he realized it was time to wake up Ira. With a small sigh, he walked over to her “Ira, get up,” he called, shaking her shoulder gently. “It’s already late.”

Ira groaned, burying her face deeper into her pillow. “Ugh… Bhai, it’s just six in the morning,” she mumbled sleepily. “My school starts at eight. I still have plenty of time to get ready. Let me sleep a little longer.”

Arin crossed his arms, rolling his eyes at her lazy protests. “It’s not time for one of your boring arguments, Ira. You need to wake up, or you’ll be late for your first day at your new school.”

Ira peeked at him through one sleepy eye and groaned dramatically. “Ahh! Bhai, you’re so rude in the mornings.”

Arin let out a small chuckle, shaking his head. “And you’re impossible when you’re half-asleep. But this is for your own good. Now, go freshen up, take a bath, and meet me at the dining table when you’re dressed, okay?”

Ira sighed in defeat, stretching lazily before finally sitting up. “Alright, alright, as you say, Bhai.” She pouted slightly but knew he was right.

While Ira reluctantly dragged herself out of bed and went to take a bath, Arin headed to the kitchen. He tied an apron around his waist and began preparing breakfast, letting the comforting aroma of freshly cooked food fill the house.

Arin worked efficiently, ensuring that everything was set before Ira and their mother woke up. The warm aroma of freshly prepared breakfast filled the house, wrapping it in a sense of comfort and home. By the time the clock struck seven, he wiped his hands on a kitchen towel and made his way to his mother’s room. Knocking gently on her door, he called out softly, “Mom, wake up. It’s seven already. Come to the dining table after getting freshened up, okay?”

From inside, his mother stirred, her voice thick with sleep. “Mmm… okay, Arin. I’ll be there in a while.”

Smiling at her drowsy response, Arin left her to wake at her own pace and returned to the kitchen to set the table.

A short while later, as his mother stepped into the kitchen, still tying her hair up in a loose bun, she paused in surprise. The sight of the neatly prepared breakfast—the warm toast, the perfectly scrambled eggs, and the fresh fruit neatly arranged—made her blink in disbelief.

“Woah! Arin, what’s all this? You made breakfast?” she asked, her voice laced with both amazement and gratitude.

Arin turned to her with a small smile. “Yeah, I did. You were exhausted after handling almost all the household and shifting chores yesterday. I thought you deserved a little extra sleep today.”

For a moment, she just looked at him, her heart swelling with warmth. Then, unable to resist, she stepped forward and pulled him into a tight hug.

“Aww, my little boy,” she murmured, holding him close. “Thank you. This means so much.”

Just then, Ira’s voice piped up from behind them. “Wait, is it hug time? Nobody told me! I want in!”

Their mother laughed as she stretched out an arm. “Come here then—family hug time!”

Without hesitation, Ira launched herself into the embrace, wrapping her arms around both of them. Their mother’s warmth, Arin’s quiet strength, and Ira’s infectious energy blended together in a moment of pure, unspoken love.

But the tender moment was soon interrupted by Arin’s voice, laced with urgency. “Sorry to break up this emotional scene, but we’re getting late, Mom, Ira…”

Their mother quickly pulled away. “Oh, right! You’re both on a tight schedule today. Don’t just stand here, go eat!”

Ira, still reluctant to end the hug, pouted dramatically. “Ugh, but I want more hugs.”

Arin gave her a pointed look, shaking his head. “No more hugs for now. We have places to be.”

Ira gasped, placing a hand over her chest in mock betrayal. “You’re heartless, Bhai!”

Their mother chuckled at their usual playful banter. “Alright, alright, less talking, more eating. You don’t want to be late on your first day.”

With laughter lingering in the air, the family gathered around the table, sharing breakfast together—each bite filled with warmth, care, and the unspoken love that bound them together.

After finishing breakfast, the family swiftly moved into their morning routine. Arin headed to the garage to start his car, while Ira ran upstairs to grab both her school bag and Arin’s office bag. Meanwhile, their mother gathered the dishes and placed them in the sink, making a mental note to clean up later.

As Arin turned the key in the ignition, the car hummed to life smoothly. He exhaled in relief and slowly pulled it out of the garage. But just as he reached the driveway, the engine sputtered—and then, without warning, it died.

Frowning, Arin stepped out, rolling up his sleeves as he leaned under the hood to inspect the issue. He checked the battery, the fuel lines, and even the engine oil, but nothing seemed obviously wrong. Realizing it needed professional attention, he pulled out his phone and called a mechanic to have the car towed to the automotive shop.

Meanwhile, Ira, now downstairs with their bags in hand, stepped outside. She glanced at the car, its awkward position half out of the garage, and then looked at Arin, waiting for him to call her over so they could leave for school. But as time passed and Arin remained focused on his phone, she started to sense something was wrong.

A little while later, the mechanic arrived, assessing the situation before hooking the car up to the tow truck. Arin stepped back, watching as his car—his trusted daily companion—was taken away. 

Just as the truck disappeared down the road, their mother stepped outside, concern written on her face. Ira, too, now visibly impatient, crossed her arms.

“So… are we going to school and work today or are we just watching cars get towed?” she quipped, raising an eyebrow.

Arin let out a small sigh, already anticipating her dramatics. “We’ll figure it out. Just hold on.”

Their mother glanced between them, already thinking of a backup plan.

As Arin stood contemplating their next move, their mother stepped forward, holding out a set of car keys.

“Honey, take my car for today. Both of you are getting late,” she said, her voice firm but caring.

Arin hesitated, glancing between the keys in her hand and his mother’s expression. “But Mom… how could I take your car? You never even let us eat, drink, or move too much in it whenever you gave us a ride!”

Ira immediately jumped in, backing him up. “Exactly, Bhai is absolutely right! You wouldn’t even let us bring our stuff inside. I mean, your car is like a sacred temple.” She folded her arms, giving their mother a pointed look.

Their mother exhaled dramatically, pinching the bridge of her nose. “You two are so annoying. Do you want a car right now or not?”

Arin and Ira exchanged quick glances, knowing they had pushed her limits. Arin cleared his throat. “It’s not that, Mom… I’m just saying, if we take your car, how will you get to work?”

Their mother waved a hand dismissively. “Don’t worry about me. I’m not going to the office until tomorrow. I still have plenty of work to finish around this house. You both know how big this place is—there’s no way I can leave it half-done.”

Arin studied her face for a moment, making sure she wasn’t just saying that to accommodate them. Finally, he nodded, taking the keys from her hand. “Alright, Mom. If you’re sure about this… thanks for letting us use your car.”

Their mother gave him a knowing smile, ruffling Ira’s hair as she turned to head back inside. “Just don’t make a mess in there. And drive safely!”

Ira grinned, hopping into the passenger seat. “Guess we finally got permission to breathe in Mom’s car.”

Arin shook his head with a smirk as he got behind the wheel. “Don’t push your luck, Ira.”

As they pulled out of the driveway, their mother stood at the door, watching them leave with a soft smile—her heart full as she saw her children growing into responsible young adults.

Half an hour later, Arin and Ira arrived at the main gate of Ira’s new school. The car glided smoothly to a stop, and as Ira stretched in her seat, she let out a satisfied sigh.

“This car is really comfy,” she mused, running her fingers over the leather upholstery. “I mean, the passenger seat is awesome.”

Arin chuckled, resting his hands on the steering wheel. “That’s because we never got the chance to sit in the front before. But yeah, you’re right—Mom’s car is something else.”

Ira turned to look at the grand gates of her new school, her excitement mingling with a hint of nervousness. “Well, looks like we’re here already.” She unbuckled her seatbelt and grabbed her bag. “Thanks for the ride, bhai.”

“Wait,” Arin said, shutting off the engine. “I’ll walk in with you. The principal here—Miss Coco—was my professor back in university. I’d like to say hi.”

Ira’s eyes lit up. “Oh? Well then, let’s go meet my new principal and your old teacher.”

After parking in the school’s designated lot, Arin and Ira strolled through the corridors, their footsteps echoing as they approached the principal’s office. When they reached the door, Arin knocked twice, and a warm, familiar voice called from inside, “Come in!”

As they stepped in, Principal Coco’s eyes widened in delight, her expression brightening as she recognized her former student.

“Arin!” she exclaimed, rising from her chair. “What a wonderful surprise!”

Arin grinned, stepping forward. “Miss Coco, it’s so good to see you! It’s been a long time.”

“It sure has,” she said, her eyes twinkling with nostalgia. “And as you can see, I’m no longer just a professor—I’ve become the principal of this fine institution.” She gestured around her office proudly before settling her gaze back on him. “And what about you? How have you been? If I remember correctly, today is your first day at your new job, isn’t it?”

Arin nodded. “You guessed it right, ma’am. I’m officially starting today.”

As the two of them spoke, Ira stood to the side, feeling momentarily out of place. She fidgeted with her bag strap before mumbling, “I feel like I’ve entered the wrong room…”

Principal Coco turned to her with a warm smile. “Oh, don’t feel left out, Ira! Come here and give me a big hug, just like you used to.”

Ira blinked in confusion. “Wait—how do you know my name? And what do you mean by ‘just like I used to’?”

Principal Coco chuckled, opening her arms. “I’ve known you since you were three, my dear. You might not remember, but we used to play all sorts of games together back then.”

A wave of relief washed over Ira, her nervousness easing. “Oh, thank god!” she sighed dramatically. “I was starting to think I’d be a lonely bird flying through this vast sky all by myself again.”

Arin placed a hand on her head, ruffling her hair affectionately. “Hey, don’t think like that. I can guarantee that beyond this office, you’ll find new friends waiting for you. You just have to be yourself—confident, fearless, and unapologetically you. If you let these doubts take over, you’ll only hold yourself back. So, go out there and show them what you’ve got.”

Ira looked up at him, her eyes filled with appreciation. “Thanks, bhai… this really means a lot to me.” She smiled, her determination returning. “I promise, I won’t think like that again.”

Arin smiled back, satisfied. “That’s what I like to hear.” He then turned to Principal Coco. “Miss Coco, can I count on you to look after her?”

Principal Coco placed a hand over her heart. “You have my word, Arin. She’s in good hands.”

“Thank you, ma’am.” He gave Ira one last pat on the head before stepping toward the door. “I’ll see you in the evening, Ira.”

With that, he exited the office, ready to begin his own journey for the day, leaving Ira in good hands and filled with newfound confidence.

Principal Coco smiled warmly at Ira. “Alright then, let me guide you to your new class.”

Ira gave an eager nod. “Yes, please, ma’am.”

With a reassuring pat on Ira’s shoulder, Principal Coco led her down the hallway. As they walked, Ira’s excitement was mixed with a flutter of nerves. A new school meant new faces, new experiences, and a fresh start. She took a deep breath, preparing herself.

Upon reaching the classroom, Principal Coco opened the door, stepping inside with Ira following closely behind. Instantly, the chatter in the room hushed. All eyes turned towards them—curious gazes from students and a surprised yet welcoming look from the teacher.

Among the sea of unfamiliar faces, one stood out to Ira, making her eyes widen in disbelief. There, sitting in the front row, was Kian—the same boy she and Arin had helped at the mall yesterday. He, too, looked equally surprised to see her, his lips parting in a small gasp.

Principal Coco’s voice brought everyone’s attention back. “Good morning, students! How are you all doing today?” she asked, her voice warm and inviting.

The students responded in unison, their voices cheerful. “We’re all good, Miss Coco!”

The class teacher, Ms. Rumi, smiled as she took a step forward. “Ma’am, who is this adorable young lady standing beside you?” she asked, eyeing Ira with curiosity.

Principal Coco gestured toward Ira with a proud smile. “This is Ira, your new classmate and friend. I trust all of you to make her feel welcome and ensure she has a friendly environment here, alright?”

“Yes, ma’am!” the students echoed together.

Principal Coco then turned to Ira with a gentle nod. “Go ahead and choose any seat you like.”

Ira hesitated for only a second before pointing toward Kian. “Miss Coco, can I sit with that boy?”

A knowing smile crossed Principal Coco’s lips. “Oh, so you want to sit with Kian?” She glanced at the boy, who straightened up at the mention of his name. “Very well. Go ahead, Ira.” She then turned to Kian. “Kian, make sure to take good care of her, alright?”

Kian grinned, giving a playful salute. “Yes, ma’am! I’ll keep that in mind.”

Ira made her way toward him, feeling more at ease knowing she wasn’t entirely alone in this new place. As she reached his desk, she looked at him expectantly. “Mind if I sit with you?”

Kian’s grin widened as he pulled his bag aside to make space for her. “Not at all, Ira. Have a seat, please.”

Satisfied, Principal Coco gave a final nod to Ms. Rumi. “I’ll leave her in your capable hands, Ms. Rumi. Please proceed with your class.”

Ms. Rumi nodded, placing a reassuring hand on Ira’s shoulder. “Of course, ma’am. Don’t worry, Ira is in good hands.”

As Principal Coco exited the room, the class returned to their normal routine. Ira, now seated beside Kian, felt a wave of relief wash over her. Maybe this new school wouldn’t be as scary as she had thought. With a familiar face beside her, she knew her day was off to a good start.

Ms. Rumi smiled warmly at Ira. “So, Ira, can you please introduce yourself to the class?”

Ira took a deep breath, feeling the weight of every curious gaze in the room. She stood up, her hands clasped together as she spoke with confidence yet a hint of shyness. “Hello, everyone. I’m Ira, your new classmate and student of Ms. Rumi. I arrived in this country just three days ago, so I’m still unfamiliar with this place. I would really appreciate it if you all could help me settle in. Thank you.”

A few murmurs spread across the room, some students whispering among themselves. Ms. Rumi gave an encouraging nod. “It’s always wonderful to meet someone from another country. Welcome, Ira. You may take your seat now.”

Ira smiled and sat back down beside Kian, adjusting her uniform slightly. Ms. Rumi then flipped open her book. “Alright, students, open your English Literature books to page 82.”

The sound of pages rustling filled the classroom as everyone hurried to the correct page.

Ms. Rumi turned to Ira. “Ira, could you tell me where you last left off in your previous school? That way, we can help you catch up.”

Ira shook her head slightly, offering a small, confident smile. “Oh, don’t worry about that, Ms. Rumi. This is all revision for me. I’ve already completed all subject lessons.”

The room fell silent. A few students exchanged astonished glances, while Ms. Rumi’s eyebrows lifted in surprise.

“You’ve already finished… all the subjects?” Ms. Rumi asked, clearly taken aback.

Ira simply nodded. “Yes. I like to learn ahead of time. It’s sort of a hobby of mine to read and understand everything before anyone else. But please, continue teaching as usual. This will just be revision for me.”

Ms. Rumi chuckled, shaking her head in amusement. “Well, that’s quite an impressive hobby.” She was about to begin when a staff member suddenly entered the room.

“Ms. Rumi, Principal Coco has requested to see you in her office.”

Ms. Rumi sighed lightly but nodded. “Alright, class, I’ll be back in a few minutes. Read through the text on your own until I return.” With that, she stepped out, leaving the students on their own.

Ira turned slightly toward Kian, who was staring at her with a curious expression.

“So… your name is Ira, huh?” he asked.

Ira raised an eyebrow. “Yes, I’m Ira. You just realized that now?”

Kian shrugged. “I just properly registered it in my head.”

Ira tilted her head slightly. “By the way, why were you sitting alone before I sat with you?”

Kian hesitated for a moment before sighing. “Because… I’m used to sitting alone. It’s as natural for me as it is for you to learn everything before anyone else.”

Ira observed him for a moment before flashing a small grin. “Then, how about you give me a tour of the school campus at lunchtime?”

Kian blinked in surprise. “Wait… are you serious? I mean, a lot of students are probably eager to show you around, and yet you want me to do it?”

“Yeah,” Ira said without hesitation. “I want you to give me a tour. Is that a problem?”

Kian seemed almost baffled. “No, not a problem. I’m just… surprised. No one has ever really given me these friendly vibes before.”

Ira leaned in slightly, lowering her voice. “Why? Do they not like you?”

Kian let out a dry chuckle. “Something like that. I’m the lowest scorer in this class, and this place is filled with top students. I don’t really… fit in.”

Ira’s expression softened, but then she grinned mischievously. “Well, today’s your lucky day then. Because starting now, you’re my dear friend. And very soon, I’ll be the top scorer in this class, and you’ll be right behind me in second place.”

Kian stared at her, processing her words. “Wait… what? I’m your friend?”

Ira crossed her arms playfully. “Aren’t you? You’re my friend now. And honestly, I have no interest in being friends with people who judge others based on marks or rankings.”

Kian’s lips curved into a small smile. Something was refreshing about Ira’s confidence and the way she treated him without hesitation. “Thanks for being my friend, Ira. And for yesterday too… I really appreciate it. I’ll make sure to cherish our friendship.”

Ira nudged him lightly. “Good! Now, let’s get through this class, and at lunchtime, you better be ready for that tour.”

For the first time in a while, Kian felt a sense of warmth spread in his chest. Maybe, just maybe, things were about to change for the better.

Suddenly, the classroom speakers crackled to life, and Principal Coco’s cheerful yet authoritative voice echoed throughout the school.

"Attention, students! Due to the sudden organization of the Science Fest for the higher grades, all classes for 3rd to 5th graders have been canceled for today. Teachers will be assisting with the event, so students of these grades are free for the day. Enjoy your time responsibly. Thank you!"

As the announcement ended, a wave of excited murmurs and whispers spread across the classroom. Some students were already planning how to spend their unexpected free time, while others cheered in excitement.

Kian turned to Ira with a smirk. “Looks like you’re getting that tour earlier than expected.”

Ira’s eyes lit up as she quickly grabbed her bag. “Well then, what are we waiting for? Let’s go before the hallways get too crowded.”

Kian chuckled, standing up. “No need to rush. It’s totally fine to roam as long as we don’t cause any trouble.”

Ira shot him a mischievous grin. “Define trouble.”

Kian narrowed his eyes. “You’re giving off troublemaker vibes right now.”

Ira playfully flipped her hair. “I have no idea what you’re talking about. Let’s move before Ms. Rumi comes back and assigns us extra reading or something.”

With that, the two slipped out of the classroom, weaving through the excited students spilling into the hallways.

As they walked through the school corridors, Kian started pointing things out. “So, this is the main hallway—boring, I know—but it’s important. You’ll find all the administrative offices here. Avoid this area if you ever feel like skipping class. Too many teachers lurking around.”

Ira smirked. “Noted. Stay away from the main hallway when plotting an escape.”

Kian laughed. “Exactly. Now, over here is the library.” He gestured towards a grand double-door entrance. “It’s probably the quietest place in the entire school.”

Ira peeked inside, taking in the endless rows of books and the faint smell of aged paper. “Ooooh, my new hideout.”

Kian crossed his arms. “You? A bookworm and a rebel? That’s a dangerous combination.”

Ira winked. “What can I say? I like balance.”

They continued walking until they reached the outdoor courtyard, a vast open space surrounded by lush green trees and colorful benches.

“This,” Kian said dramatically, “is where most students hang out during lunch. It’s a prime spot for gossip, secret crush confessions, and—” He pointed towards a group of students laughing near a fountain. “—terribly bad attempts at flirting.”

Ira giggled. “Noted again. Avoid this area unless I want to witness romantic disasters firsthand.”

They continued their tour, making stops at the science labs, the music room, and even the art studio, where Ira nearly knocked over a bucket of paint while trying to peek at an unfinished painting.

Kian caught her arm just in time. “Whoa! Are you trying to repaint the floor with your face?”

Ira laughed, pulling herself upright. “Maybe! Wouldn’t it be cool if my first day left a lasting mark?”

Kian shook his head. “You’re a menace, Ira.”

“I prefer adventurer,” she corrected, sticking out her tongue.

As they made their way to the gymnasium, Ira spotted a basketball rolling across the floor. Without hesitation, she grabbed it and spun it on her fingertip.

Kian raised an eyebrow. “Oh? You play?”

Ira shrugged. “A little.”

Before he could react, she dribbled the ball and took a shot toward the nearest hoop. The ball swished through perfectly.

Kian let out a low whistle. “Not bad. But can you do it again?”

Ira smirked. “Is that a challenge?”

“Oh, absolutely,” Kian said, grabbing another ball and attempting a shot himself. It bounced off the rim.

Ira burst into laughter. “Oh wow, and here I thought you were going to show off.”

Kian groaned. “Hey, that was just a warm-up.”

They spent the next few minutes playfully shooting hoops, laughing every time Kian missed and Ira celebrated her victories with exaggerated cheers.

After running around the school, stopping at every interesting corner, and sneaking extra cookies from the cafeteria when no one was looking, the two finally flopped onto a bench near the garden.

Ira let out a satisfied sigh. “That was the best school tour ever.”

Kian chuckled, leaning back. “I don’t think tours are supposed to involve stealing cookies and almost causing a paint disaster, but sure.”

Ira grinned. “Then you’ve been doing school wrong.”

Kian shook his head with a smirk. “I think you might be right.”

The school bell rang, signaling lunch break. Students started pouring out into the open, but Ira and Kian just sat there, enjoying their small adventure.

“Hey,” Kian said after a moment, “I’m really glad you transferred here.”

Ira smiled warmly. “Me too. And I think I just found my first best friend in this school.”

Kian grinned. “Well, then, it’s official. You and me—partners in crime.”

Ira laughed, holding out her hand for a fist bump. “Partners in crime.”

Their fists met, sealing their newfound friendship with the promise of more adventures to come.

As the bell rang, signaling the start of lunch, students flooded into the courtyard, the cafeteria, and various nooks of the school where they usually gathered. Ira and Kian, still lounging on the bench, watched the commotion with amusement.

“So, what’s the lunch situation here?” Ira asked, stretching her arms. “Do we battle for food or is it a civilized affair?”

Kian smirked. “That depends. If you head to the cafeteria too late, you might have to fight off the food hoarders.” He nodded towards a group of students already rushing inside. “Some people take their lunch very seriously.”

Ira chuckled. “Noted. So, do we risk it?”

“Absolutely.” Kian stood up and held out a hand. “Let’s go before we end up with nothing but crumbs.”

The two made their way inside the bustling cafeteria, which smelled of fresh bread, pasta, and something vaguely suspicious from the back counter.

Ira wrinkled her nose. “What’s that smell?”

Kian followed her gaze. “That… is mystery stew. No one knows what’s in it, and frankly, no one wants to find out.”

Ira laughed. “Then let’s avoid that section at all costs.”

They grabbed trays and quickly picked out food—some sandwiches, juice, and a shared plate of fries. As they looked around for a place to sit, a few students waved at Ira, inviting her over.

Kian nudged her. “See? You’re already popular.”

Ira glanced at the group, then looked back at Kian. “You coming?”

Kian hesitated. “Uh, I usually sit alone.”

Ira rolled her eyes and grabbed his wrist. “Not anymore.”

Dragging him along, she plopped down at the table, making space for Kian next to her. The students welcomed them both, quickly introducing themselves.

“Ira, right? I’m Rhea!” a girl with glasses said excitedly. “You’re the one who finished all the lessons already? That’s amazing!”

Ira laughed. “Well, I just like to read ahead.”

“Show-off,” Kian teased under his breath.

Ira smirked. “Jealous?”

Before Kian could reply, another boy named Liam leaned in. “So, how do you two know each other?”

Ira grinned. “Oh, Kian? He’s my tour guide-slash-first-friend-slash-new-basketball-rival.”

Kian choked on his juice. “Basketball rival? We played for like five minutes.”

Ira shrugged. “And I won, so…”

The table erupted in laughter as Kian groaned. “This is so unfair.”

Lunchtime passed in a blur of jokes, stories, and friendly teasing. Kian, who was used to eating alone, found himself genuinely enjoying the company.

After lunch, students were free to explore since classes were canceled. Ira and Kian wandered outside, where students played soccer, read books, or just lounged in the shade.

“Wanna check out the science fest?” Kian suggested.

“Sure, as long as we don’t accidentally explode something.”

“No promises,” Kian said with a grin.

They made their way to the auditorium, where students from higher grades had set up their science projects. Some were impressive, like a miniature robot controlled by voice commands, while others were… questionable.

Ira and Kian stopped in front of a table where two students were arguing.

“I told you not to pour that much baking soda!”

“Well, I thought more would make a bigger explosion!”

Ira blinked. “Uh… should we move?”

Kian grabbed her wrist. “Definitely.”

Just as they stepped back, the volcano project erupted, sending foam and colored liquid splattering everywhere.

Ira gasped. “Whoa! That was actually kinda cool.”

Kian laughed. “Yeah, if you don’t count the part where they just got banned from next year’s science fest.”

As they explored more exhibits, Ira spotted a small booth where students were testing their reaction speed. A digital screen flashed random colors, and players had to tap a button as fast as possible.

Ira smirked. “Bet I can beat you.”

Kian crossed his arms. “You’re so competitive.”

Ira shrugged. “Losers always say that.”

“Oh, it’s on,” Kian said, stepping up to the machine.

They took turns pressing the button as fast as they could when the light changed. Ira scored 0.32 seconds. Kian got 0.35.

Ira cheered. “Victory is mine!”

Kian groaned. “I swear, I’m never challenging you again.”

“Liar,” Ira teased.

After spending hours exploring, laughing, and causing minor chaos, the final school bell rang.

Ira stretched. “Wow. First day and no classes? I think I’m gonna like it here.”

Kian chuckled. “You got lucky. It’s not always this fun.”

Ira smirked. “Then I guess it’s up to us to make it fun.”

Kian shook his head with a smile. “Yeah, you definitely belong here.”

As students started heading home, Ira and Kian made their way to the front gate, where Anya was already waiting in her car. 

As the school day came to an end, students scattered in different directions, some rushing to waiting cars, others chatting with friends before heading home. Kian spotted a familiar car pulling up near the school gate and turned to Ira with a casual smile.

"My sister is already here to pick me up," he said, nodding toward the sleek black car that had just stopped nearby. "Would you like to tag along with us?"

Ira shook her head with a warm smile. "Thanks, but I'm good. My bhai will be here any minute."

Kian chuckled lightly. "Same time tomorrow?" he asked, tilting his head slightly, a hint of mischief in his tone.

Ira grinned. "Wouldn't miss it."

With that, Kian gave her a playful salute before jogging toward his sister’s car. Anya, his older sister, glanced at him from the driver’s seat, raising an eyebrow as he climbed in. Kian waved through the open window, and Ira returned the gesture with a smirk before he disappeared down the road.

The schoolyard grew quieter as the crowd thinned out. Ira stood by the gate, checking the time occasionally, but she didn’t have to wait long. Within minutes, Arin’s car pulled up smoothly in front of her.

She exhaled, relieved, and walked over, opening the door and sliding into the passenger seat. Arin gave her a quick glance, his eyes scanning her face for any sign of exhaustion.

"So, how was the first day?" he asked, his voice laced with curiosity as he pulled back onto the road.

Ira leaned back against the seat with a satisfied sigh. "Honestly? It was amazing." She turned to him with a bright smile. "I think I’m going to like it here."

Arin smirked. "That’s good to hear. I was worried you’d say you hated it and I’d have to find another school for you tomorrow."

Ira laughed, shaking her head. "No way. I made a friend already, and I think I might actually enjoy this place."

Arin glanced at her again, this time with a proud look in his eyes. "That’s my little sister. Making friends on day one like a pro."

Ira rolled her eyes playfully but couldn’t help the warmth spreading in her chest. As Arin drove them home, she gazed out the window, feeling a strange sense of belonging she hadn’t expected so soon.

Her new life had just begun, and she couldn’t wait to see what tomorrow would bring.

 

Continue.....