The morning light filtered softly through the windows of the inn, carrying the faint scent of damp earth and distant rain. Hiten was already up, quietly sipping his tea by the window. Aarya stirred in her bed, rubbing her eyes and peeking at him.

“You’re up early,” she murmured, stretching.

“I could say the same for you, Muffin,” he replied, smirking gently. She blinked, caught off guard. “Hmm? Did I just hear that right?”

“You… you called me Muffin,” she squeaked, sitting up. “I’m going to get you back for this.”

Hiten shrugged, a calm twinkle in his eyes. “Oh, I’m sure you will. But for now… breakfast?”

---

The group got ready for the day’s adventure, donning raincoats, boots, and carrying umbrellas — light drizzle hinting at the town’s signature wet weather. Hiten helped organize the bags, quietly making sure everyone had what they needed.

“You’re being way too responsible, Dumbo,” Aarya teased as she struggled with her backpack.

“I prefer ‘prepared,’” Hiten said calmly, sliding the bag onto her shoulders with ease.

“Yeah right. Mr. Prepared,” she said, nudging him playfully.

He smirked, not letting her teasing get to him, but the small corners of his lips lifted in amusement.

---

Cobblestone streets wound through the misty town, lined with quaint wooden houses and tiny market stalls selling roasted corn, local sweets, and trinkets. Aarya’s laughter echoed as she darted from stall to stall, teasing Hiten about everything — the way he examined souvenirs, how he carried his bag, even his calm smile.

“You’re just letting me tease you all day,” she said, nudging his arm.

“I’m enjoying it,” he replied softly, watching her grin with quiet admiration.

They shared roasted corn, exchanged playful remarks, and stole glances at each other, the world around them blurring into the comfort of shared laughter and light teasing.

---

By late morning, the group reached the lakeside. The mist hung low over the water, casting everything in a dreamy haze. Hiten stood near the railing, hands in pockets, gazing quietly at the calm water.

Unseen, Aarya pulled out a small sketchbook and began drawing him, capturing the way he stood, so composed yet gentle.

After a few minutes, she sat beside him on a nearby bench, nudging him softly.

“Hey… you okay with sitting?” she asked, brushing a strand of hair from her face.

Hiten nodded, smiling faintly. “Yeah… it’s peaceful here. I like it.”

For a while, they sat quietly, shoulders almost touching, sharing the calmness of the morning, until Aarya leaned slightly closer, nudging him awake when he had dozed off gently on her shoulder.

---

In the afternoon, they wandered into a small local workshop where artisans demonstrated pottery with wet clay.

“Wow! They actually make these from scratch?” Aarya asked, eyes wide.

Hiten chuckled, crouching beside her. “Come on, Muffin, let’s try it ourselves.”

Hands muddy, they molded small pots and figurines, teasing each other about whose creation would be better. Every accidental splash or smudge drew laughter from both, and Hiten guided her gently whenever her hands wobbled.

“You’re not making it fair,” Aarya said, smirking. “Your pot is huge!”

“It’s called strategy,” he said calmly, brushing clay off her fingers.

---

The group settled under a small covered area, munching on local snacks. Aarya stuffed her cheeks with pastries while Hiten watched quietly, teasing her with nicknames.

“You really are a little Muffin, you know that?” he said, reaching to grab a pastry.

“Shut up, Dumbo!” she replied, nudging him. “You’ll get yours too.”

They laughed together, sharing bites and playful glances, their chemistry growing more visible as the day went on.

---

As evening descended, they returned to the inn. A small circle of classmates decided to play Truth or Dare to unwind.

Aarya spun the bottle. Hiten got “Truth.”

“Who do you like?” a classmate asked boldly.

Hiten froze for a moment, then glanced shyly at Aarya. Silence fell.

“Oooohhh!” the classmates chorused. “You got good taste, Hiten!”

“Shut up!” Hiten protested, but the faint blush on his cheeks betrayed him. Aarya giggled quietly, nudging him. “It’s okay… you don’t have to say anything,” she whispered, her hand brushing his.

The group erupted in laughter, teasing continuing lightly, but Hiten’s calm demeanor and small smiles toward Aarya showed a more tender, mature side.

---

Later that night, Hiten and Aarya sat by the window, watching the rain streak softly down the glass.

“You know,” Aarya murmured, “I didn’t think a town I’ve never been to could feel this… cozy.”

“Silence isn’t empty when you share it,” Hiten replied softly, watching her blush.

Aarya leaned gently against him. He rested his head on her shoulder, sighing lightly.

“You’re heavy,” she whispered, nudging him awake later.

“Best pillow ever,” he mumbled, smiling faintly.

The rain tapped softly against the roof, carrying their laughter and teasing, promises of more adventures, and quiet, intimate moments waiting for the next day.

---

Author Note:

Hiten and Aarya’s first trip together brings playful teasing, cozy quiet moments, laughter, and the subtle warmth of shared experiences. Truths revealed, blushes shared, and small poetic gestures — the journey continues, deeper and richer than before.