The place we live in feels like our entire world, and we think we know everything about it. But that illusion shatters once you step out of your comfort zone, leaving behind everything for the dreams you chase. We believe we will all make it, but the strength it takes to keep going feels as immense as Mount Everest.

Sir, here's your bike.

Thanks, I replied, smiling.

Finally, all my belongings are here in this vast city where I don't know a single soul. I have my bike-my rider-and my little escape, my books. I feel truly happy to ride my bike again after an entire week. It's something I really missed.

Moving here was anything but easy. Living alone? Will that even work for me? Whether it will or not, one thing's certain-the traffic here is a nightmare beyond imagining.

And then, I was pushed forward as a car crashed into my bike. Could this day get any worse? It's beyond frustrating.

Oh my God, my precious rider! I muttered, looking at the wreckage. I'll make sure whoever did this pays for it.

I approached the car, knocking on the glass. The window rolled down, revealing a woman with an aura that spoke volumes. She didn't need to utter a single word to command the situation, but it wasn't my fault. She has to apologize.

Come out, miss, I said, trying to keep my tone calm despite my frustration.

She stepped out, her presence intimidating. But I was determined to stand my ground.

Miss, you should apologize for the damage you've caused, I said as politely as I could manage, masking my irritation.

Her eyes met mine, and in that moment, I knew this encounter wouldn't end on a good note.

Do you even know who you are talking to? she said, walking towards me.

Does it matter who you are? You crashed into my bike and didn't even apologize. I said, crossing my arms.

Without a word, she reached into her purse, pulled out a checkbook, and scribbled an amount. Handing the check to me, she said coolly, Recover your loss. Money is far better than an apology.

Pardon? I said in disbelief.

I said recover your loss. Money is far better than a useless apology, she said, looking right into my eyes without wavering.

Unbelievable, I scoffed.

I stared at the check in disbelief, feeling a surge of anger rise within me. My hands clenched into fists as I walked over to her car, my heart pounding in my chest. Without a second thought, I pulled back my fist and smashed it into her headlight, the glass shattering under the impact.

Placing the check on her windshield, I leaned in close.

'Suit yourself, egotistical woman' I said, my voice dripping with sarcasm, a smirk tugging at the corners of my mouth.

Her eyes blazed with surprise and anger.

I closed my helmet and sat on my bike. The crowd around us barely noticed, in my mind. So many eyes were watching our drama, but who cares? I wasn't at fault anyway.

With a rev of the engine, I sped away, the roar of my bike drowning out the whispers and murmurs of the people.

I arrived home, parking my bike and taking off my helmet. The evening air was cool, calming the lingering anger.

As I walked into my apartment, the events of the day replayed in my mind. My stomach growled loudly, reminding me that I hadn't eaten anything since morning. The confrontation had made me forget about groceries entirely. After taking a moment to freshen up, I decided to head to the nearby market to pick up some vegetables and other necessities

After shopping, I went to the Mart to get some snacks.

Is someone crying? I thought. It sounded like a child, but no child cries like that. Where was the sound coming from?

I followed the noise, and to my surprise, I found a small box near the trash box. Inside the box was a tiny shivering puppy, abandoned and alone. Its eyes were wide with fear, and it was whimpering softly.

My heart ached for the little creature. I gently picked up the puppy, cradling it in my arms.

Hey, little one, I whispered. Would you like to live with me?

The puppy nuzzled deeper into my stomach. I'll take that as a yes, I said, smiling. Let's get you home.

With my groceries in one hand and the puppy in the other, I hurried back to my apartment. I knew I had to take care of this little life that had just entered mine.

Let's clean you up first, little one.

After cleaning and drying him, I gave him some milk in a small bowl and started to cook for myself. The aroma of the pasta was making my stomach grumble.

Did you finish the milk? I asked. He looked up at me with big, soulful eyes, almost as if we could talk through some kind of mind connection.

I sat on the couch and started to eat my pasta while watching TV. Just then, my phone buzzed on the kitchen countertop.

Hey, mama, I greeted, picking up the call.

How have you been? You didn't call me today, she inquired, her voice tinged with concern.

I was a little busy, I replied, walking back to the couch.

Did you have your dinner? she asked.

I'm eating now. Let me show you something, I said, picking up the puppy and holding him up to the camera. Isn't he cute, Mama? I asked, patting the puppy.

He sure is, she responded, smiling. Did you adopt him?

No, I found him at the market and brought him home with me, I explained.

Can you even take care of him? she questioned.

I probably will, I will, I asserted, nodding confidently.

What's his name? she inquired.

I didn't give him a name yet, I said, stuffing myself with pasta.

You should name him. He's your responsibility now, she suggested.

Do you have any names in mind? I asked, curious.

Well, I have a few, but the choice is yours. You should decide-he's your first 'son' after all, she said with a smile.

I looked down at the puppy, who gazed back at me with those big, trusting eyes. Alright, little guy. How about Arlo? Or maybe Orion?

The puppy wagged his tail, seemingly in approval. I think he likes Orion, I said, grinning.

Orion it is then, my mom said warmly. Welcome to the family, Orion.

Orion Mahajan, the only heir of my everything, I declared, laughing.

You're a fool, my mom chided. Now eat and take care of yourself and Orion, she said while waving goodbye through the screen.

After cleaning the dishes and making a small bed for Orion, I settled on my own bed and started writing in my journal.

Ah, that emotionally unstable woman was really irritating, I wrote. Why the heck didn't she apologize when it was totally her mistake? Gosh, people nowadays are crazy. Let's just hope I never meet a crazy person like her again.

I paused, tapping my pen against the page. I need to go to the office tomorrow, so buckle up, Ridham. You can't lose this chance for a new beginning.

I looked at Orion and saw him sleeping peacefully

Well I guess Living alone here won't be that bad with this cutie after writing i closed my journal and in no time sleep eloped me

The morning came in no time, and I woke up to the sound of little Orion crying.

Hey, buddy. You hungry? I asked, rubbing my sleepy eyes.

He just continued his crying session. Pouring him some milk, I headed toward the bathroom for my morning routine.

Today's an important day, I muttered to my reflection. Let's hope not to mess up anything.

I dressed in my professional attire, hoping to make a good impression. Orion watched me with wide, curious eyes as I gathered my things.

Wish me luck, Orion, I said, patting his tiny head. He looked at me with those trusting eyes, and I realized how nervous I was for my first day.

I arrived at the office. It was a large building, and as soon as I stepped inside, I could feel the hustle and bustle of the place.

I took a deep breath, straightened my tie, and stepped into the lobby The hustle and bustle inside was overwhelming People were rushing around, carrying files, talking on phones.

I approached the reception desk and introduced myself

Hello, I'm Ridham Mahajan, here for my first day

The receptionist looked up and smiled, Welcome, Mr Mahajan Please take the elevator to the fifteenth floor The HR department will guide you from there

Thank you I said walking to the elevator

The elevator ride felt like an eternity I took a deep breath and stepped out onto the fifteenth floor

A friendly-looking woman greeted me Hello, Ridham, I'm Priya from HR Welcome to the team Let me show you around

You already know my name? I asked

I got the call from the reception she said while gesturing to walk

She gave me a quick tour of the office, introducing me to key team members and explaining the layout Finally, we arrived at my desk

This will be your workspace Priya said If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask

Thank you, Priya I replied with a smile

I spent the morning familiarizing myself with my new role and tasks My colleagues were welcoming and helpful, which made the work smoother

It was already lunch time getting up i stretched my arms

Let's go I'll show you the cafeteria said rajat one of my colleague patting my shoulder

Sure let's go i said walking with him

The office cafeteria was bustling with employees chatting and enjoying their meals we settled on a quiet corner

So, it's your first job? Rajat asked while eating.

Yes. What's your age? I inquired.

Twen- he began, but was abruptly cut off.

Suddenly, all the chatting and clinking of plates and spoons came to a halt. I looked up to find the reason for this, and my eyes landed on her

~~~~~~~~

Hi my Homies 🎀 🤍

Comment and let me know how's the chapter

Make sure to follow me on instagram for spoilers and updates

[Author_liaana]

Enjoy your reading

Aana💝