Love Ride

 It was a warm, sunny morning, and Ayan could feel the gentle breeze against his face as he prepared his bike for an adventure. Aliya, his closest friend, stood beside him with a bright smile. They had always been close, sharing secrets, laughter, and countless memories. Today, however, felt different—a long bike ride lay ahead, one they had been planning for weeks.

“Are you ready?” Ayan asked, securing his helmet.

Aliya grinned, her hair tied back in a ponytail. “Of course! I’ve been looking forward to this all week.”

With that, they set off, the road stretching ahead like an endless ribbon winding through the countryside. The air was fresh, filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the chirping of birds. Ayan led the way, his heart beating faster, not just from the excitement of the ride but also from the presence of Aliya.

They rode for hours, stopping occasionally to admire the scenic beauty around them. Eventually, they came across a quaint little hotel nestled among tall trees. The building had a rustic charm, with wooden balconies and colorful flower pots lining the windowsills.

“Shall we stop here for a while?” Aliya suggested.

“Sure,” Ayan agreed, parking the bike near the entrance. They walked in, and the cozy atmosphere of the hotel welcomed them. After ordering some refreshments, they found a quiet corner with a perfect view of the lush greenery outside.

As they sipped their drinks, Aliya noticed Ayan was unusually quiet. “Hey, is everything okay?” she asked, concern in her voice.

Ayan hesitated for a moment, then reached into his pocket and pulled out a single red rose. “This is for you,” he said softly, handing it to her.

Aliya’s eyes widened in surprise. “It’s beautiful,” she whispered, taking the rose gently.

Ayan smiled nervously. “It’s beautiful, just like you.”

A blush crept up Aliya’s cheeks, and for a moment, neither of them spoke. The silence was filled with a thousand unspoken emotions. Finally, Ayan gathered his courage and said, “Aliya, can I… can I have your hand for a moment?”

Aliya looked at him curiously. “Why, Ayan?”

He smiled. “I want to give you something.”

After a moment’s hesitation, she extended her hand toward him. Ayan took out a small box and opened it, revealing a pair of delicate rose-shaped bangles. Aliya gasped in surprise as he carefully slid them onto her wrist.

“They’re beautiful,” she said again, her voice barely above a whisper.

Ayan held her hand gently, his heart pounding in his chest. “Not as beautiful as you,” he said softly. “I’ve wanted to say this for a long time, Aliya. I… I love you.”

Aliya looked into his eyes, seeing the sincerity and nervousness in them. A warm smile spread across her face as she whispered, “I love you too, Ayan.”

For a moment, time seemed to stand still as they sat there, hand in hand, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the warmth of newfound love.

After a while, they got back on the bike, Aliya sitting behind Ayan, her arms wrapped around his waist. She hugged him tightly, feeling the warmth of the moment. The journey back felt different—filled with laughter, joy, and the promise of something new. As they rode through the winding roads, the sun setting in the distance, Ayan knew that this ride was just the beginning of a beautiful journey they would take together.