Chapter 6: Parallel Memories

Priya and Arjun’s memories of another timeline returned on the eve of semester exams. Priya fussed over her notes, Arjun tinkered with his ancient scooter, the campus alive with the aroma of chai and nervous laughter.

They discovered Trisolaris before Meera and Ishaan, their eyes meeting in the library, both distant with secrets. Priya bit her lip, glancing at Arjun’s back. Was he really in love with her just for a few kind words?

Arjun scratched his head, cheeks burning. Even at the end of the world, he hadn’t ended up with Priya. He remembered every kindness—an umbrella in the rain, her mother’s pickle during lunch.

Priya drummed her fingers on the desk, the weight of parallel lives heavy as a monsoon cloud. Arjun stared at his notes, reasoning: the heart wants what it wants, even if the world is ending.

“Arjun,” Priya said, gathering courage, “if I could choose again, I might still fight for the mercy killing bill for you.”

Her voice trembled. The library’s fluorescent lights flickered, a fly buzzing overhead. Arjun’s chest tightened, but he smiled: “I know. You’re you—a unique firework.”

Seeing Arjun so calm, Priya finally asked, “What are the metaphors in those three fairy tales?” She waited, the silence between them stretching like a raga’s final note.