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Chapter 25 - Fahad

Alan and Fiza's friendship flourished as they became inseparable as best friends. They formed a routine of studying together, attending basketball practices one after the other, and sharing their lives with one another.

They recorded music together and individually for their shared instagram account . They now had over a thousand followers. Their shared interests and companionship brought them immense happiness, despite the platonic nature of their bond.

However, Alan maintained a safe physical distance from Fiza, always conscious of the importance she held in his life. He vowed never to put their friendship at risk again, understanding that she was too precious to lose.

Fiza, in turn, respected his boundaries and allowed him to take the lead in maintaining their close bond. She chose to turn a blind eye to any potential relationships he might have outside of their friendship, prioritizing the protection and preservation of what they had built together.

They became each other's pillars of support, sharing not only their academic pursuits but also their dreams, fears, and aspirations.

They reveled in the comfort of each other's presence, finding solace in their shared experiences and deep conversations. The love that once simmered between them now flourished as a profound friendship, one that knew no bounds.

Shahana and Priya, concerned about the complexities of their friendship, advised Fiza to sever ties cleanly and avoid prolonging the situation. Despite their cautionary advice, Fiza stood firm in her decision to continue the friendship. Over time, their friends and classmates began to accept their unique relationship.

Alan excelled in subjects like pharmacology and forensic medicine, consistently performing at the top of their class. Meanwhile, Fiza showcased her brilliance in pathology and microbiology. Their classmates affectionately referred to them as a power couple, assuming a romantic connection between them, although they were not aware of the intricacies and depth of their friendship.

Ultimately, the nature of their relationship didn't matter to others; what truly mattered was the genuine bond they shared.

In their second year of medical school, a month was dedicated to community medicine. Each batch was assigned to a nearby village for rural medical practice, immersing themselves in the local community and gaining valuable hands-on experience.

The batches were organized by alphabetical order, and fate had it that Fiza and Alan found themselves in the same batch. However, most of Fiza's close friends were assigned to the third batch, leaving her with a sense of being left out. Nevertheless, she embraced the opportunity to forge new connections.

Every morning, they eagerly ventured into the community, diligently collecting data on various health issues, reviewing medications, and conducting thorough physical examinations.

Their compassion and dedication shone as they visited 'Anganwadi' centers, focusing on the well-being of mothers and children. They meticulously examined the little ones, ensuring their growth and development were on track, while also assisting with important vaccinations.

During their cherished free time, they embraced the natural beauty surrounding them. Hand in hand, they hiked along the trails of Kailasagiri Hills, breathing in the fresh mountain air and marveling at the breathtaking views. The serenity of nature mirrored the tranquility they found in each other's company.

In the tapestry of their lives, their friendship remained a vibrant thread, woven with trust, understanding, and unconditional support. Their journey together as best friends surpassed societal expectations, proving that true bonds could transcend conventional boundaries.