Chapter 2: Love That Knows Your Schedule
Ishaan knew her routine better than she did.
He knew which bus she took in the mornings, which seat she preferred, how she liked her tea — less sugar, more silence. At first, it felt romantic. Like being seen without needing to explain yourself.
Lately, it felt heavy.
They walked side by side after school, the pavement warm beneath their feet. Shops were closing early, shutters rolling down like tired eyelids. Ishaan spoke easily, filling the space between them with plans and assumptions.
"You didn't tell me you stayed late yesterday," he said casually.
"I didn't think it mattered."
He stopped walking. Not abruptly — just enough to make her notice.
"It matters to me," he said. His smile stayed, but something beneath it tightened. "I worry. That's love, Aariyah."
She nodded. It was easier than arguing. Easier than explaining that worry could feel like a leash if held too long.
At the bus stop, he stood closer than necessary.
"Text me when you get home," he said.
"I always do."
"I know," he replied. "I just like knowing."
The bus arrived late, groaning as if offended by the road. Aariyah found her usual seat by the window. As it pulled away, she watched Ishaan grow smaller, still standing there, still watching.
The sky darkened without warning.
Rain began — not suddenly, not dramatically — just a quiet drizzle, as if the city had decided to speak under its breath. Drops slid down the glass like unsent letters.
Her phone vibrated.
Ishaan: You're quiet.
She typed a reply, erased it, typed again.
Just tired.
The rain thickened.
At home, Amma was folding laundry, the television murmuring in the background.
"You should answer him properly," her mother said, not looking up. "Boys worry when girls don't respond."
Aariyah went to her room without replying.
The streetlight outside flickered, then steadied.
She lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling, wondering when love had become something that tracked her movements — and why the city always seemed to know when she felt watched.
When you're ready, just say "Chapter 3" and I'll continue.