The college festival had arrived. Colorful banners hung across the campus, music played from every corner, and students moved around with excitement. Aarav stood near the entrance, holding a small handmade badge that read: "Art Club Volunteer." He looked around, searching for one face.
Yuvaan.
He spotted him near the stage, helping set up decorations. Yuvaan wore a soft white shirt, sleeves rolled up, and his hair slightly messy from the wind. Aarav smiled. Even in a crowd, Yuvaan stood out to him.
You look busy, Aarav said, walking over.
Yuvaan turned and smiled. You came.
Of course. I wouldn't miss this.
They worked together, hanging paper lanterns and arranging flowers. Meera joined them with a tray of snacks.
You two are glowing again, she teased.
Yuvaan laughed. It's the lanterns.
No, it's love, Meera said, winking.
Later, as the sun began to set, the festival lights came on.
The campus glowed with soft colors pink, gold, and blue. Music played gently in the background, and students gathered around the stage for performances.
Aarav and Yuvaan sat together on a bench near the garden, watching the lights flicker.
This feels like a dream, Aarav said.
It does, Yuvaan replied. But it's real. You're here. I'm here.
Meera walked over with a camera. Smile, lovebirds.
They posed, laughing, and Meera clicked the photo.
I'm keeping this forever, she said.
Suddenly, the host announced a surprise performance. A student stepped onto the stage and began to sing a soft, romantic song that filled the air with warmth.
Aarav looked at Yuvaan. Dance with me?
Yuvaan blinked. Here?
Why not? Aarav said. Everyone's watching the stage.
Yuvaan smiled and stood up. Okay. Just for a moment.
They moved slowly, swaying to the music. Aarav's hands rested gently on Yuvaan's waist, and Yuvaan's arms wrapped around Aarav's shoulders. Their eyes met, and the world faded.
You make everything feel easy, Yuvaan whispered.
You make everything feel worth it, Aarav replied.
Meera watched from a distance, smiling softly. She wasn't the only one. A few students noticed them, but no one interrupted. The moment was theirs.
After the song ended, they sat back down, hearts still beating fast.
I want to tell people, Aarav said. About us.
Yuvaan looked at him. Are you sure?
I'm sure, Aarav said. I don't want to hide anymore.
Yuvaan nodded. Then let's do it together.
They walked to the photo booth, where students were taking pictures and writing messages on a large board. Aarav picked up a marker and wrote:
I found something real. His name is Yuvaan.
Yuvaan smiled and added:
And I found someone who sees me. His name is Aarav.
They stepped back, looking at the board. Their words stood out, simple and honest.
Meera walked over and hugged them both.
You're brave, she said. And beautiful.
That night, as the festival ended and the lights dimmed, Aarav and Yuvaan sat on the rooftop again. The stars above were quiet, watching.
We've come a long way, Aarav said.
And we still have so far to go, Yuvaan replied.
Aarav leaned in and kissed him slow, warm, full of promise.
And in that quiet moment, they knew: this was love. Not just in secret. But in the open. In the light.