The next morning in Shimla was serene, with the sun peeking over the snow-capped mountains and a gentle chill in the air. After the previous night's chaos, the group decided to spend the day strolling through the local markets, indulging in a bit of shopping.

Kush walked slightly ahead of the group, his hands stuffed into his jacket pockets, scanning the vibrant stalls with keen eyes. His gaze lingered on a beautiful pastel pink shawl embroidered with intricate floral patterns. He immediately thought of Milli.

He gestured to the shopkeeper. "How much for this one?"

The shopkeeper smiled. "It's handmade, sir. Twelve hundred rupees."

Kush nodded, pulling out his wallet. "I'll take it."

As the shopkeeper packed the shawl, his eyes fell on another-deep maroon with golden threadwork, elegant and regal. It reminded him of his mother, Gayatri. Without hesitation, he pointed to it. "And that one too."

Meanwhile, Milli and Naina were exploring a stall nearby, giggling over colorful scarves. Mayank hovered between stalls, carrying bags for Naina and occasionally muttering complaints about the weight.

Pashmeena Dhaagon Ke Sang
Koi Saath Lipta Hai

"Kush," Milli called out, spotting him at the shawl stall. "What are you up to?"

Kush turned around, holding the bags in his hands. "Just picking something for my mom," he said casually. "And... maybe for a friend too."

Milli raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "A friend, huh?"

Kush smirked, his eyes glinting mischievously. "Yes, a very special friend."

Naina laughed, nudging Milli. "I think you're the 'special friend,' Milli. Want to check what he got you?"

Milli blushed slightly, trying to brush off the teasing. "Stop it, Naina."

Mayank joined them, carrying yet another bag. "What's going on here? Oh, is this about Kush being a secret romantic again?"

Kush rolled his eyes. "You all have too much imagination."

The group continued their shopping spree, each of them picking out small souvenirs for their loved ones. Milli chose a deep blue shwal for her mother, Mrinalini, and a sleek, minimalist wristwatch for her father, Vinayak. Naina bought an intricately designed bracelet, while Mayank selected a quirky woolen hat for his younger brother.

As they regrouped with their bags, Naina sighed dramatically. "We've shopped enough to last us a year. Let's head back."

Back at the guesthouse that evening, the group sat together, sharing the stories behind their purchases.

Milli unwrapped the shawl Kush had bought her, her eyes widening in surprise. "This is... beautiful," she murmured, running her fingers over the delicate embroidery.

Kush shrugged, trying to seem nonchalant. "I thought it'd suit you."

Naina elbowed him playfully. "See? Secret romantic."

Milli smiled, her voice soft. "Thank you, Kush. It's perfect."

Later, as the night settled in, Kush sat by the window in his room, watching the moonlight dance over the hills. His thoughts wandered to the people he cared about-his mother, Milli, and even this newfound group of friends who felt like family.

"Jab kisi ki taraf dil jhukne lage,
Aankhon Aankhon mein ikraar hone lage,
Bol do agar pyarr hone lage..."

The melody played in his mind as he realized how much he cherished these moments, woven in warmth and simple joys.

The trip wasn't just about exploring Shimla; it was about discovering the bonds that made life truly meaningful.