STRINGS and STANDOFFS

2: Plot Twist - Same College, Same Chaos

At NCU, we believe that education goes beyond textbooks. We are deeply committed to nurturing cultural growth alongside academic brilliance. Whether your passion lies in drama, music, literature, art, or sports, you will find a stage, a canvas, a court, and a voice here.

You'll meet people who challenge you, inspire you, and maybe even drive you a little insane, but that's the beauty of this journey. You're not just gaining a degree; you're building stories, friendships, and memories that'll stay long after the graduation robes come off.

I would also like to take a moment to thank one of our long-standing patrons, Mr. Shah, whose generous support and contributions have helped us continue expanding opportunities and resources for our students. His belief in young talent has played a vital role in making NCU what it is today.

From your very first day to your final curtain call this place will offer you knowledge, growth, and a whole lot of chaos... the good kind.

To the Class of 2029-may your journey here be bold, bright, and unforgettable.

Welcome to NCU, and best of luck!"

*

If this was the universe's idea of a joke, Radha was officially not laughing.

As she stood squinting at the crammed major list, the rest of her chaotic circus, also known as her friends, gathered around her like confused puppies sniffing out their fate.

Rudra, in his usual graphic tee and neon sneakers, fist-bumped the air.

"Arts and sports. Paintbrush by day, basketball beast by evening. Balance, baby."

Kavya scanned the drama list and raised an eyebrow.

"Trisha and I, drama majors. Obviously. The stage needs us."

Then with a smug smile: "Also, I've taken dance. Just so Radha doesn't feel too special."

Radha didn't even look up. "You can try, darling."

Trisha nodded coolly, adjusting her silver hoops. "Let's be honest. We're here to stir chaos and monologues. Preferably both at once."

Rishi, bouncing on his feet like a golden retriever with too much energy, pointed at his double major.

"Literature and writing because I'm deep and poetic."

Then grinned, "Also, sports. Because basketball still has my heart."

Shree deadpanned, "You talk like a walking Pinterest board."

Shree himself?

"Music. Cooking.literature.That's it. I will not be explaining further."

He pulled out a sketchpad with chord progressions and a recipe for mango mousse written side-by-side.

Radha turned to Ashi, who looked like she was either about to cry or throw up.

"I... I took literature and writing too. Same as Rishi and Shree."

Rishi gave her a high-five. "Team Quiet Nerds with Emotional Depth!"

Ashi blinked. "I'm not quiet."

Radha chuckled. "You're scared of your own Google calendar."

And then it circled back to her. Radha Deshpande.

Dancing and music. The twin flames of her soul.

Which would've been poetic, if not for the fact that Anirudh Freaking Shah had decided to choose the same combination. Just to ruin her life. Obviously.