23rd September
Dear Journal,
"Today, as the crisp morning sun painted my room with its golden hues, I found solace in the familiar embrace of my journal. The scent of fresh pages welcomed me like an old friend, and my pen danced eagerly upon the canvas, ready to etch the story of my heart.
They call me Niha, a nickname that has stuck since childhood, a name that resonates with warmth and simplicity. Yet, beneath this nickname lies a world that few know—the world of Aria, the writer. Writing has always been my sanctuary, my escape from the rigors of academic life.
My family, the cornerstone of my existence, knows me as the diligent daughter, the one who excels in her studies. Dad, a formidable businessman, has taught me the value of hard work and integrity. He built an empire from nothing, and his dedication to his craft has always been a source of inspiration. He's the silent strength, the quiet cheerleader who believes in my dreams, even if he doesn't know what they truly are.
Mom, on the other hand, is the heartbeat of our home. Her love is a gentle lullaby that soothes our souls. She's the one who taught me the art of compassion, and the power of kindness. Her days are a symphony of homemaking and nurturing, and she does it with a grace that's nothing short of poetry.
And then there's Ananya, my younger sister. She's a whirlwind of energy, a bundle of dreams. Her laughter fills our home with a vibrant melody, and I cherish the times we spend together. She's the one I confide in, the one who's privy to my secret identity as Aria. She's my partner-in-crime when it comes to slipping away to our favorite bookstore, hidden in the heart of our city, where I pick up obscure novels and she indulges in her love for comics.
Friends, the gems that sparkle in the tapestry of my life, are my second family. There's Riya, my confidante since our school days. Her laughter is infectious, and her loyalty is unwavering. She's the keeper of my secrets, and I'm hers. We've navigated the tumultuous sea of adolescence together, and our bond has only grown stronger.
Then there's Kabir, the enigmatic poet with a heart of gold. His words have the power to move mountains, and his friendship is a treasure I hold close. In the chaos of our final year, we've found solace in late-night discussions about literature and life."
As I put my pen down, I heard Ananya's voice from downstairs, calling me to join them for breakfast. The aroma of Mom's special dosa wafts up the stairs, and I can't resist. I close my journal, tucking it away safely, knowing that these pages will always be here to listen, to and share my dreams.
But little do I know that today, as I take my first bite of dosa, a mysterious email notification will appear on my phone, setting in motion a chain of events that will challenge the simple beauty of my life.
**To be continued...**