Tia parked the bike and led the way inside. The moment they stepped through the doors, Chahat was struck by the elegant fusion of old-world charm and modern luxury. The high ceilings, intricate wooden carvings, and classic paintings blended seamlessly with sleek, contemporary furnishings.
It was clear from every detail that Tia came from a well-established, deeply rooted family. Chahat couldn't help but marvel at her surroundings, feeling as if she had stepped into another world.
As they stepped inside, a middle-aged woman greeted them with a warm smile.
"Tia, beta, who is this with you?" she asked, her eyes filled with curiosity and kindness.
"Mum, this is Chahat," Tia introduced. "And Chahat, this is my mum."
"Hello, Aunty," Chahat greeted politely.
"Hello, beta," Aunty responded warmly. "Kaise ho aap? I heard you're from a different city. Have you settled in, or is it still taking time?"
Chahat let out a small sigh and smiled slightly. "Not yet, Aunty, but I will, eventually. It just takes some time to adjust."
Tia's mother nodded knowingly before turning to her daughter. "Tia, beta, remember the manners of a good host. Your friend is your top priority. Treat her well."
Chahat quickly intervened, shaking her head with a gentle smile. "Aunty, please don't worry about me. I'm fine. There's no need for any special treatment."
"But still, you're our guest," Aunty insisted. "How have your college days been going? Everything alright? If you ever need any help, don't hesitate to ask."
Chahat's face lit up at her concern. "Aunty, there's a saying—'Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.' I want to grow up learning to handle life as it comes. For now, I just need your valuable advice."
Aunty smiled in approval. "That's a wise way to think, beta."
"As for my studies," Chahat added, "I can manage them with my mum's savings. So you don't need to worry about me financially, Aunty."
"If that's the case, then I won't worry," Aunty said warmly, patting her shoulder. "But if you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask."
Turning to her daughter, she said, "Tia, take Chahat to your room. Let her rest for a bit."
Tia nodded and led Chahat down the hallway. As they reached the room, Chahat stepped inside and looked around. Unlike the neatness she had expected, the space was far from organized. Sports magazines lay scattered across the floor, mixed with various other belongings, giving clear evidence that this room truly belonged to Tia.
Chahat couldn't help but chuckle. "So, you like sports, huh?" she teased, nudging a football with her foot.
Tia grinned sheepishly. "What can I say? My room reflects my personality—wild and free!"
Chahat laughed, feeling a sense of comfort. Despite the mess, there was something welcoming about this place, just like Tia's mother.