Two weeks pass quietly, and I’ve almost fully recovered. Swapan visits regularly, never empty-handed.

Each time, he brings chocolates and snacks, and we all sit together—me, Swapan, and the cousins—sharing stories, laughter, and a few lighthearted moments.

It’s nice, a welcome break from the stillness that’s settled over the house.

By the end of the second week, I’m able to move around without much pain. The family can see the progress, and things are beginning to feel more normal.

But tonight is different. Tonight, the entire family is gathered in the living room for a discussion we’ve all been waiting for: what comes next.

My father looks around the room, his gaze settling on me and Rafa.

"So, it’s time to discuss your future,"

he begins, his voice calm but firm.

"The next two years of secondary high school are important. What are your plans?"

I exchange a glance with Rafa. We’ve already spoken about this, and the decision is clear.

“We’ve both decided to continue with science,”

I say, speaking steadily.

“It’s something we’re passionate about, and we believe it’s the best path forward.”

Rafa nods beside me, her expression thoughtful.

“Yes, and the best school for science is actually in the city where Azer used to live.”

There’s a brief pause as the family absorbs the information. My mother looks at us both with a warm smile.

“It’s a very good school,” she says. “You’ll both have wonderful opportunities there.”

I continue, feeling the weight of the decision in my words.

“I’ll stay in the same place I lived before. Rafa will be shifting there as well, so we’ll be able to continue our studies together.”

Rafa adds, her voice steady but with a hint of excitement,

“It’ll be a big change for me, moving to the city. But knowing Azer will already be there makes it easier.”

There’s a quiet understanding in the room. Our families know this is a significant step, not just academically, but personally.

The decision to move forward with our education, together, brings a sense of certainty.

Swapan, sitting across from me, suddenly leans forward, a grin on his face.

“Well, while you two are off studying science, I’ve got some news of my own.”

We all turn to him, curious.

“I’ve been selected for a prestigious school abroad,”

Swapan says, a hint of pride in his voice.

“I’ll be going out of the country for my studies.”

The room goes still for a moment, the weight of his words sinking in. Then, one by one, the family congratulates him.

“That’s incredible news, Swapan,”

I say, genuinely impressed.

“I had no idea.”

He shrugs, a smile playing on his lips.

“I wanted to surprise everyone. But yeah, I’ll be leaving soon.”

Rafa looks over at him, surprised.

“Swapan, that’s a huge step. We’ll miss having you around.”

Swapan waves it off, though there’s a trace of emotion in his voice.

“Don’t worry, I’ll come back during the holidays. Besides, you two will be busy with your studies. I’ll be off having my own adventure.”

The conversation shifts again, with the focus returning to the plans Rafa and I have laid out.

We explain that we’re both committed to pursuing science, and with the best school located in the city, it makes sense for us to move there.

I’ll be returning to familiar ground, while Rafa will be starting fresh. The thought of being in the same city gives us both a sense of reassurance.

Swapan, always the jokester, chimes in,

“While you two are experimenting in science labs, I’ll be exploring the world.”

Laughter ripples through the room, lightening the atmosphere. But despite the jokes, there’s an underlying current of excitement and seriousness.

This isn’t just about the next two years; it’s about the future. The decisions we’re making now will shape the paths we follow, and everyone in the room knows it.

As the evening comes to a close, there’s a sense of quiet satisfaction. The plans are set, and the future feels a little more certain.

Once the conversation concludes, we all head to the dining room, where the scent of freshly grilled food fills the air.

The table is laid out with a Western-style feast—barbecue, ribeye steaks, roasted vegetables, and a variety of side dishes. It’s a departure from the usual, but the change is welcome.

The sizzling aroma of the steaks and the perfectly cooked ribeyes invite everyone to sit down quickly.

We gather around the table, the mood relaxed and warm. Plates are passed around, and before long, the conversation shifts from future plans to more casual, light-hearted topics.

Swapan makes a few jokes, easing any lingering tension, while the rest of us dive into the food with a mix of appreciation and hunger.

As we eat, I glance across the table at Rafa. She’s smiling, quietly enjoying her meal, and for a moment, everything feels just right. I wish this could continue forever