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Chapter 1 - The Sunlight of the Last Evening

The Sunlight of the Last Evening

In an old neighborhood of Kolkata, where narrow lanes curved between red-brick houses and the scent of old books drifted through the air, lived a quiet, thoughtful boy named Arian. He was a dreamer, lost in pages of poetry and unfinished manuscripts. His world was small—his college, his home, and the old library at the corner of his street. Above all, he wanted to become a writer someday.

On the other side of the same city lived Meherin. She was full of life, her laughter bright enough to light up a room. She loved colors, canvases, and the gentle silence that came while painting. Her dream was to hold her own art exhibition one day. Though they lived in the same city, their worlds had never crossed—until destiny decided otherwise.

The First Meeting

One quiet afternoon, Arian was searching for a book of poetry at a small shop in College Street. Just as he reached for a worn copy of poems by Jibanananda Das, a soft voice spoke beside him.

"Are you going to take that book? I've been looking for it."

He turned and saw Meherin, her eyes hopeful and curious. For a moment, the noisy city faded into silence. Their eyes met, and something unspoken passed between them.

"You can have it," Arian said gently. "I'll find another copy."

Meherin smiled. "Only on one condition—you'll have coffee with me."

That coffee became the beginning of everything.

From Friendship to Love

Days turned into weeks. They met often—sometimes by the river, sometimes among the endless rows of books. Arian would read his poems aloud, his voice trembling slightly. Meherin would show him her sketches, each one carrying a piece of her heart.

Slowly, their dreams began to intertwine.

One rainy evening, standing by the river as drops of rain shimmered on the water, Meherin whispered, "Life feels easier when you're around."

Arian looked at her and replied softly, "My words wouldn't have colors without you."

That was the moment they both understood—their friendship had quietly blossomed into love.

The Storm

But love stories are rarely simple.

One day, Meherin told Arian that her family had arranged her marriage. The man lived abroad, had a secure job, and promised a stable future. Her family believed it was the safest choice for her.

Tears filled her eyes as she said, "I want to fight for us… but can I hurt my family like that?"

Arian held her hand. "Love isn't just about staying together. It's about protecting each other's dreams."

He knew convincing her family wouldn't be easy. Still, he refused to give up.

A Brave Decision

Arian gathered his courage and visited Meherin's home. He spoke honestly about his dreams, his plans, and his love for her. He didn't promise wealth or luxury—but he promised dedication, respect, and a future they would build together.

At first, there were doubts and objections. Questions about security, stability, and responsibility filled the room. But Arian's sincerity and Meherin's unwavering determination slowly softened her parents' hearts.

Months later, in a small ceremony surrounded by both families, their relationship was finally accepted.

Dreams Fulfilled

Two years later, Meherin stood in an art gallery in Kolkata, her paintings hanging proudly on white walls. Each canvas told a story of hope, longing, and courage.

In one corner of the gallery stood Arian, holding a copy of his newly published book. On the dedication page, it read:

"For Meherin, who colored my life."

She walked up to him, smiling through happy tears. "We made it."

He squeezed her hand gently. "Because we never let go."

The Last Evening Sunlight

As the golden light of the setting sun reflected over the river, they walked side by side, hands intertwined. Their love was no longer just a feeling—it was a journey they had survived together, through storms and sunshine alike.

Their story proved one simple truth:

True love does not fade with time.

It grows deeper, stronger, and brighter—just like the sunlight of the last evening.

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