The week before Aryan's departure felt strangely emotional.
Every small moment suddenly felt more meaningful.
One afternoon, Aryan called Riya and asked her to meet him near the college gate.
When she arrived, Aryan smiled.
"I have an idea," he said.
"What kind of idea?" Riya asked curiously.
"Today we're going to visit every place on campus that reminds us of our memories."
Riya laughed.
"That sounds like a long tour."
Aryan shrugged.
"We have time."
They started walking slowly across the campus.
Their first stop was the library.
As they stepped inside, the quiet atmosphere felt familiar.
"This place started everything," Aryan said softly.
Riya smiled.
"You mean when you asked me why I always read books?"
Aryan nodded.
"And you told me books were more peaceful than people."
Riya laughed.
"I still believe that sometimes."
They walked to the table where they had spent many afternoons studying together.
The chairs were empty now, but the memories felt alive.
After a few minutes they left the library and walked toward the cafeteria.
The cafeteria was full of students talking and laughing.
Riya pointed at a corner table.
"That's where you first told me about your dream university."
Aryan nodded.
"And you told me I should chase my dreams."
Riya smiled.
"I guess you listened."
"Of course," Aryan said.
After leaving the cafeteria, they walked to the college garden.
The same garden where they had shared many serious conversations.
Aryan looked around quietly.
"This place always felt peaceful," he said.
Riya nodded.
"It's where we talked about your father's transfer."
"And where I realized how strong you are," Aryan replied.
Riya looked surprised.
"Strong?"
"Yes."
"Why?"
"Because you always supported my decisions, even when they were difficult for you."
Riya looked down for a moment.
"I just wanted you to be happy."
Aryan smiled gently.
"You helped me believe in myself."
The sun was slowly beginning to set, painting the sky with orange and pink colors.
They sat on a bench in the garden.
For a while, neither of them spoke.
Finally Riya said quietly,
"It's strange how quickly everything changes."
Aryan nodded.
"A few months ago we didn't even know each other."
"And now…" Riya said softly.
"And now you're one of the most important people in my life," Aryan finished.
Riya smiled.
Even though the future felt uncertain, the memories they had created together were real.
And those memories would stay with them no matter where life took them.