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The Friendship Stories

The Lost Bracelet

Written By : Aanya B. (Age 12)

STORY 1

I had just finished PE when I realised my friendship bracelet was gone. The one Meera gave me last year, the one with purple beads and a tiny silver heart.

Panic bubbled up. I searched the field twice. Nothing.

I didn’t even want to tell Meera. She’d be heartbroken.

But at lunch, she was smiling. “Looking for this?” she asked, holding up the bracelet.

I stared. “How did you—?”

“I saw it near the monkey bars,” she said. “I knew you’d freak.”

I felt tears prick my eyes. “You’re the best.”

She laughed. “Of course I am. We’re soul sisters, remember?”

That tiny moment meant everything. Because true friends don’t just give you things. They find them when you lose them—especially when it matters most.

Game Over… Almost

Written By : Dev K. (Age 13)

STORY 2

It was the finals of the inter-school gaming competition. I had practiced for weeks. But ten minutes before the match, my laptop crashed.

I thought it was over. My dream. The tournament. Everything.

Until Aarav pushed his laptop toward me. “Use mine.”

“What?” I blinked.

“You have a better shot at winning,” he shrugged.

I didn’t know what to say. I had never seen someone give up their own chance… for me.

I played. I won.

Afterwards, they handed me the trophy. But I handed it to Aarav.

“This is ours,” I said.

Because sometimes, the real win isn’t the game. It’s the friend you gain along the way.

The Empty Chair

Written By : Zahra M. (Age 14)

STORY 3

Every day, I’d see Ria sitting alone during lunch. I noticed she always drew in her notebook—dragons, fairies, cities floating in the sky.

One day I sat beside her.

She looked surprised. “Why?”

I shrugged. “Because your dragons are awesome.”

That day, she smiled like no one had ever said that before.

Now, three months later, our table is full of drawings, doodles, and two people who never run out of stories to share.

All it took was noticing the empty chair—and choosing to sit there.

The Apology Note

Written By : Riyan S. (Age 11)

STORY 4

I messed up.

I told everyone in class that Aarush still sleeps with a night light. I meant it as a joke. Everyone laughed… except him.

He stopped talking to me. Didn’t sit with me on the bus. Didn’t even look my way in maths.

I felt horrible. My stomach did flip-flops every time I saw his face.

So I wrote him a note.

"I’m sorry. I forgot being funny shouldn’t mean being mean. You’re still my best friend. Please forgive me."

I folded it into a paper plane and threw it at his desk.

He read it. Crumpled it.

And then… passed me a new one.

"Friends mess up. Real friends say sorry. You're still my best mate."

Sometimes, the hardest part about friendship is admitting you were wrong. But if it’s true, it finds its way back.

Even through a paper plane.

A Thread That Never Breaks

Written By : Gautham Reddy Kundara. (Age 11)

School Name: Don Bosco Senior SecondarySchool,Nerul

STORY 5

Priya was quiet and loved reading. Aarush was loud,full of jokes, and loved music. Though so different, they became best friends in fourth grade whenAarush helped Priya to pick up her fallen books and never left her side after that. When Priya shifted to another city, she stopped coming to school. When Aarush got the news, he was very upset. Aarush sat on Priya’s bench and started reading her favourite poems until finally Priya messaged him. From that moment, she started healing. Life pulled them in different directions. Aarush stayed in their hometown, working with his father and playing music in a small local band. Though they messaged each other sometimes, weeks and then months would pass without a single call. Priya missed him during her quiet evenings, wondering if he ever thought of her poems. Aarush missed her too, especially when his songs felt empty without someone to listen so deeply.

One rainy night, as Priya sat working late, her phone rang. It was a call from an unknown number. A trembling voice said,

“Is this Priya? Aarush hasbeen in an accident.” Without a second thought, Priya booked the first train back home. As the rain lashed against the windows, memories flooded her mind: Aarush teasing her about her serious face, sharing samosas after school, reading poems under the banyan tree.

At the hospital, she found him lying in bed, bandages on his arm, his eyes half open. He managed a small smile.

“I knew you’d come, ” he whispered, his voice weak but certain.

Priya took his hand and said, softly but firmly, “We may not talk every day, but the thread between us—it never breaks.”

In the weeks that followed, Priya helped Aarush recover. She read him poems, just as he once read to her. They laughed again, slower now, but deeper than before.

When Aarush was strong enough, he picked up his guitar and played a song he’d written for Priya—a song about stars, poems, and a friendship that survived every storm.

Moral: True friendship isn’t measured by distance or time apart. It’s measured by how deeply you care, and how you’re always there when it matters most.

Abigail Rodrigo ( age 11)

STORY 6

I was sitting on a bench by the road side, when I suddenly noticed that there were no people.

I called out but no one answered. Then, I saw a poor girl sitting by the road side. A boy was coming towards her.

He was badly harassing her. When I saw this, I felt deep pain in my heart. I went up to him and looked in his eyes.

I understood that he was my brother, Rajesh. We used to play together in the muddy playground. But, suddenly he had to leave my side. He never returned.

I slapped him hard and asked him, ' where were you? I missed you. He never told me anything.

So I decided, my brother will improve after 6years of prison at the Maharashtra jail. Later after he was arrested, I went.

But the girl stopped me to ask my name. I told her, ' My name is Royal Mary.'

I asked her for her name. And she told me, ' My name is Kyra Lisa.'

In the end they became best friends.

Moral: Always be good in a way that others appreciate.

Crizel Mary Mascarenhas

STORY 7

Once there was a giraffe who was all alone in the forest. It wanted to be friends with other animals. The giraffe went to a monkey and asked, "will you be my friend?" The monkey was very proud, it said, "you are too tall to swing on trees like me. l cannot be your friend." Then the giraffe went to a frog and asked, "will you be my my friend?" The frog was very arrogant, it said, "you cannot hop like me so we cannot be friends."

The giraffe then said, "to be friends we just need love and care for each other, so that we can help each other whenever the time comes. Friendship doesn't require any ability or false pride." The frog and the monkey realised their mistake. Then all three became best friends.

Moral : friendship requires only love and care.

Pages between us

Written By : Yuthika Royyur (age 11)

School : Dreamtime learning

STORY 8

Yue was just relaxing at home, watching a movie, when suddenly… her doorbell rang. Confused, she walked over and opened the door, only to find no one there—just an envelope on the doorstep. Inside was a letter addressed to someone named Weina. But that wasn’t her; she was Yue.

Curious, Yue opened the letter and read it. It seemed like a normal friendship letter, so she decided to ignore it for the time being.

But after a while, a mischievous idea struck her—she decided to reply, pretending to be Weina, and sent the letter to the return address written on it.

A few days later, she received a reply. The girl who wrote it was named Meilin, and she wanted to meet up with Weina in two days. Yue panicked. She wasn’t the person Meilin wanted to meet. So, she wrote back, lying that she was busy and couldn’t make it. Then she sent the letter.

It took a while, but eventually the next letter arrived. In it, Meilin began to express doubts—realizing that the person she was writing to probably wasn’t Weina, despite the familiar address. She mentioned that she had forgotten some details.

Reading that, Yue decided to come clean. She confessed her true identity and admitted she had been pretending to be Weina in the letters.

Surprisingly, over time, the two became friends through their letters—even though they had never met in real life. They grew so close they could practically guess what the other was thinking. Meilin even shared stories about the real Weina—her best friend who had moved out of the state.

Yue felt relieved and happy. She had just moved to this city and hadn’t made any friends yet, so Meilin became her first—despite the unusual start and the fact that they had never met in person.

The End.

The One Who Was My Shadow

Written By : Saanvi S. Singh (age 11)

School : Don Bosco Senior Secondary School Nerul

STORY 9

In the sacred village of Vrindavan, where the rivers hummed lullabies and the wind carried the scent of jasmine and rain-soaked earth, lived a young boy named Arjun. He was no warrior, no scholar, no sage — merely the son of a potter, with clay under his fingernails and dreams in his eyes.

Yet, Arjun was different. Not because of what he did — but because of what he lacked.

He cast no shadow.

When he stood beneath the sun, the earth beneath him remained untouched. No outline followed him at dusk. No flicker danced beside him in firelight. It was as if light passed through him like he was air. The villagers noticed. Some were frightened. Others whispered. A few believed he was cursed.

Only one person paid no attention to the superstition — Krishna, the dark-skinned boy with peacock feathers in his hair and mischief in his smile. The two had been friends since the days they chased calves in the mud and laughed at the clouds for being too slow.

One summer evening, while sitting near the banks of the Yamuna River, Arjun finally asked what had weighed on him for years.

“Krishna,” he said quietly, “why do I have no shadow?”

Krishna turned to him, a soft breeze tugging at his blue shawl. “Not everything that disappears is lost,” he replied, eyes distant, voice slow. “And not every shadow is meant to follow.”

Arjun frowned. “Then... where is it?”

Krishna stood, brushing the dust off his dhoti. “Come,” he said. “It’s time you see.”

He led Arjun through narrow trails, over whispering grasslands and under sleeping trees. The stars had begun to peek through the violet sky by the time they reached the old forest — the part where even the parrots spoke in hushed tones.

There, hidden behind a curtain of banyan roots, was a cave — small and forgotten.

Inside, the air was still and cool, and the darkness thick, yet gentle. Krishna lit a lamp. Its flame danced, and shadows bloomed across the stone walls. Arjun stepped closer... and froze.

Etched into the rock was a figure — tall, graceful, holding a flute. But it wasn’t the carving that took Arjun’s breath away. It was the shadow beneath it.

His shadow.

Exactly as it should have been. Arms, legs, even the curl of his hair. But it was not connected to him — it lay beneath Krishna’s carving, as if it belonged to the Lord instead.

Krishna looked at the wall for a moment, then said softly, “Because it was given.”

Krishna looked at the wall for a moment, then said softly, “Because it was given.”

“When you were born, your soul shimmered — too bright, too open. Shadows cling to the soul, not the skin. But yours rejected it. And so, I took it... and carried it as my own.”

Arjun was silent, the flickering lamp reflecting in his wide eyes.

“But... why?” he whispered.

Krishna smiled, the kind of smile that carried a thousand lifetimes. “Because sometimes, a friend walks ahead not to lead, but to shield. And sometimes, a shadow is the only thing that can be shared when everything else feels too small.”

Arjun stepped closer to the wall. His fingers trembled as he touched the carving. The stone was warm.

And suddenly, outside the cave, under the moonlight, Arjun’s shadow returned. Quietly. Without sound. Without announcement.

Just like friendship.

From that day onward, he no longer walked alone — for now, light remembered him again. But more importantly, he understood something most never would:

That friendship isn't always seen. Sometimes, it is the unseen that protects us most.

Moral:

A true friend may walk ahead, behind, or beside you — but sometimes, they are the silent shadow that carries your burdens when you can’t.

TIDES OF FRIENDSHIP

Written By : Tiara Ghosh (age 11)

School : OAKRIDGE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL, NAU, BACHUPALLY,HYDERABAD

STORY 10

The sun was just starting to wake up, splashing the sky with pink and orange hues when I first spotted Tofu. I was sitting on the beach, my toes sinking into the cool sand, just watching the waves dance like shimmering ribbons. That’s when I noticed this tiny sea turtle struggling near the rocks, flapping its little flippers as if it was trying to take off into the sky.

“Hey there, little buddy,” I whispered, inching a bit closer. Tofu looked up at me, his eyes round and curious, like two shiny marbles. I could almost hear his little heart racing.

I named him Tofu because he was soft and gentle, just like the tofu my mom makes for dinner. And just like that, a friendship as deep as the ocean began.

Every day after school, I’d dash to the beach, my backpack bouncing on my back, eager to see Tofu. He was different from any turtle I'd ever seen. There was this spark in him, a brave little soul who loved to explore. Sometimes, he’d swim in circles around me, almost like he was showing off his moves.

“Look at you, Tofu! You’re the fastest turtle in the sea!” I’d cheer, clapping my hands in excitement.

One afternoon, as the sun hung low in the sky, casting everything in a golden glow, Tofu did something amazing. He nudged a shiny shell towards me, as if it were a little gift. I picked it up, feeling its smooth curves in my palm.

“You’re the best friend ever,” I said, my voice a bit shaky. I could swear Tofu understood every word I said.

But, you know, friendship isn’t always smooth sailing. One day, out of nowhere, a storm rolled in. The waves were wild and angry, and I couldn’t help but worry about Tofu. I yelled, “Hold on, Tofu! I’m coming!”

The wind howled like a pack of wolves, and the rain felt like needles on my face. I spotted Tofu caught between the rocks, struggling against the strong current. Without even thinking, I dove in, the cold water wrapping around me like a giant’s hug.

I gently grabbed Tofu and swam back to shore, my heart racing like crazy. When we finally reached the sand, I wrapped him in my jacket, whispering, “You’re safe now.”

That night, as I held Tofu close, it hit me - friendship means showing up, even when things get stormy and scary.

Sometimes, when I close my eyes, I can still picture the first time I found Tofu. The way his tiny flippers moved, that sparkle in his eyes, and the warmth that filled my heart. That memory is like a lighthouse, guiding me through dark or lonely times. “Do you remember, Tofu? You were so small, but you had the biggest heart,” I whispered to him softly.

Tofu blinked slowly, almost like he was saying, “I remember you too.”

Our friendship grew like the tide - steady and strong. I taught Tofu to trust people, and he taught me to be brave and kind. We shared secrets that only the ocean could hear and dreams that only the stars could see.

One day, I leaned in close and said, “Promise me we’ll be friends forever, no matter what.”

Tofu nudged my hand gently, like he was sealing a pinky promise.

Now, every time I head to the beach, I see Tofu swimming freely, his shell glistening under the sun. But he always comes back to me, just like the ocean returns to the shore.

Our friendship? It’s a treasure, deeper than the sea and brighter than the sun. It’s a tale of courage, kindness, and love that I know will last a lifetime.

And I’m certain that no matter where life takes us, Tofu and I will remain friends- forever and always.

Moral:

“Because true friendship, like the ocean, never ends.”

FRIENDSHIP

Written By : Ibrahim Usman (age 12)

School : OAKRIDGE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL, NAU, BACHUPALLY,HYDERABAD

STORY 11

Once upon a time,

A boy called ‘JOHN’ went to his new school for the first time,he was scared ,he walked along in a hallway. A ball made with paper came and hit him,the students teased him and said inappropriate words.

JOHN is very sad,he stands under the door. A boy came to him and asked ‘How are you?’JOHN replied with fear inside ‘yeah,i’m good’.

Suddenly, the Principal shouted and said ‘go to your classroom,or else you will be standing in the sun outside’. After they ran to the class in their classroom, their teacher said, ‘hi my dear students. There is a new child joining our class,and the teacher asks ‘whats your name?’John replied ‘my name is John and i’m 13years old’...everyone laughed out loud but only the boy didn’t, John asked ‘why you didn’t laugh?’, the boy said ‘true friends never do that’.John was shocked, he thought that there is no one like this boy in the school.

John asked ‘what's your name?’but the boy was silent.

But John didn't take it seriously ... .in the morning assembly ,John talked about friendship, he said ‘friendship is not just a feeling it's also made with love’.

The next day ,the boy passed away from an accident.

John quickly went to his graveyard,and the end of this story comes when John cried so hard in the graveyard.

Friendship is not just a feeling, it's made with love.

Crayons, Chaos, and Japjeet: A Legendary Friendship

Written By : Angadpartap singh virk (age 11)

Class- 6A morning batch

School : DTLS (dreamtime learning school online)

STORY 12

Hi, I’m Angad, and today I want to share something special about my best friend, Japjeet. We’ve been friends since the first day of school, when he shared his crayons with me without even asking my name. Since then, we’ve been inseparable, through group projects, silly pranks, and even tough times when things didn’t go our way, even after going to coordinator’s room and having many fights, he is still my best friend.

I still remember the day I lost my confidence before a school speech. Japjeet didn’t let me give up. He stood beside me, practiced with me, and clapped the loudest when I finished. That’s the kind of friend he is, who always supports me. I am so blessed and proud to have him in my life. On this friendship day, I wish him a lifetime of love, laughter and adventure. May our friendship continue to grow stronger with each passing day.

Thanks Japjeet, for being a wonderful friend.

Your friend – Angadpartap singh virk.

Entry 1 — July 17, 1922

Written By : Chriska Willibrord

School : DTLS (dreamtime learning school online)

STORY 13

July 17, 1922

That’s it! I’ve had enough. I’m tired of being a picture-perfect image. I won’t follow my mother’s and father’s footsteps. I only just turned sixteen — I don’t want an arranged marriage. I want to leave, and I will leave this country and never set foot here again.

I wasn’t always this angry. When I was little, I used to think being royal meant I could go anywhere, be anything. But every year, the gates got taller. The guards got stricter. The dresses got heavier. And the rules — they wrapped tighter around my throat like golden chains.

They say I’m lucky — a princess with silk sheets and diamond crowns and people bowing every time I breathe. But here’s the thing: when someone says you’re lucky, it really means you don’t belong to it. They know it. You know it. And they judge you anyway for wanting more.

All I ever wanted was to laugh so loud the guards would stare, to run barefoot through the orchard without someone dragging me back inside.

If it wasn’t for my friends, maybe I’d still be stuck pretending. Luna — who slips notes under my pillow when everyone else sleeps. Sage — wild and brave in her hidden treehouse, she taught me that sometimes the safest place is far from marble floors. Kai — who turns my fear into laughter that feels like breathing again. And Noah — who shows me how to stand tall, blade in hand, even when my knees won’t stop shaking.

Tomorrow we meet where the marble ends and the wild begins. Tomorrow the princess they built will be gone — and only Nova will remain.

If someone finds this one day, maybe they’ll understand why a crown isn’t enough when your heart wants freedom — and freedom is only real when you don’t run alone.

I put down my pen for a second to fold my cloak and check my satchel again — letters, a map, a little bread, the dagger Noah gave me. I was so sure I was ready.

Then I heard it — a tap. Then two more. Then a whole shower of pebbles against my window glass. At first, my heart jumped — the guards?

But no. Of course not. I peeked out the curtains and there they were, all four shadows crammed together on the garden wall, whisper-shouting at me like I’m the fool for not noticing.

Luna, arms crossed. Sage, half grinning. Kai, waving like an idiot. And Noah — just standing there, holding the rope they clearly planned to throw up.

I forgot they promised they’d come tonight. I forgot they know me too well to trust I’d wait.

So here I am, scribbling this last line while they hiss my name through the glass. I guess I’m not running away alone after all.

The Things One Would Do for Friends

Written By : Miro Dennis Vaz

School : Dreamtime learning school online (Grade 6 A)

STORY 14

Friends. Wonderful word, isn’t it? They are wonderful people, am I right? All the things you would do for them and they would do for you.

Heaven. Wonderful place, isn’t it? Yes. The reason I’m telling you this is because I’m in it. Let me give you a re-cap:

5:00 AM New York, America

I wake up to the sound of my noisy alarm. As I hit it, my stupid younger brother comes into the room and says, “COME DOWN FOR BREAKFASTTTTTTTT!!!!!!!!!!” “Ok, ok. No need to shout” (He loves to shout). So I get up and go down the stairs to see no one. My brother says, “Mom and Dad had to leave for work early” “Ok” I say, “That’s not something new.”

After breakfast I head for school. As usual the school bus ignores me and I have to run for it.

Everyone gets their morning routine of laughter before the bus finally stops. “Oh, I didn’t see you there” the bus driver snickers. I walk to the only seat where there is someone who never laughs at me unless I’m telling a joke, the only reason I come to school, and the only person whom I can tell my feelings to: My BFF Katie. I sit down next to her and we immediately start chaƫng, about school, about life, about irritating younger siblings and how we hate them. Soon we reach school. We get out and walk right in, towards our lockers. Then we head to our class and just as I notice the janitor’s ‘Wet floor please walk slow’ sign I’m on the floor and I black out.

I wake up in the nurse’s office. “Oh, you’re awake” she says. “Wh- what happened?” “You slipped and bumped your head” I get up. “Well, I guess I should go to my class now” I say. Then I go down the hallway and enter my classroom. Nobody asks me how I am or anything, they just act like nothing has happened, well, except for Katie. The moment I sit down, she asks, “OMG what happened? Are you alright?” “Yeah, I’m fine, it’s all OK” I say. Then our algebra teacher comes into the class. ‘Ugh!

Why algebra?’ I think. I start to fall asleep when suddenly... the fire alarm goes off! Everyone pushes, and pushes in front to run out of the classroom. I look behind to see Katie with her earbuds on and listening to rock music. I look up and the fire is right above me. I try to turn around and save her when the roof collapses. No this can’t stop me. I run back into the fire only to drop down senselessly.

I open my eyes and find myself in a white mist. Suddenly a light brighter than the sun comes down toward me. When its right in front of me I notice that it’s an angel. ‘No, this can’t be...’ I think to myself. Suddenly the angel begins to speak, “Welcome to heaven! You died saving your friend, so you’re here!” “No, this can’t be...” “I know how you feel and I’m sorry, but you have to accept it. Plus, I have some good news: thanks to your act of being a good friend, your friend Katie survived!”

Suddenly, I burst into tears but deep, deep down, I’m glad I saved my friend.

Sonakshi Bahuguna

Written By : Sonakshi Bahuguna

Purkal Youth Development Society Learning Academy

STORY 15

Elara was a whirlwind, a supernova of ambition and creative chaos. Her life was a vibrant tapestry woven with grand plans, passionate outbursts, and an almost magnetic ability to attract both success and spectacular failures. She was the acclaimed sculptor whose works pulsed with raw emotion, the orator who could sway a crowd with a single phrase, the force of nature everyone wanted to be near.

And then there was Finn. Finn was the quiet constant, the comfortable hum in the background of Elara’s symphony. He wasn't her assistant, nor her manager, nor her lover. He was simply there. He was the one who remembered she hadn't eaten, who found her lost keys, who fixed the leaky faucet in her studio, who listened to her hour-long monologues without interruption, offering only a gentle nod or a perfectly timed, soft chuckle. Finn’s presence was like the air she breathed—essential, yet utterly unremarked upon. He never asked for anything, never sought recognition. He was content to be the unseen scaffolding holding up her magnificent, sprawling life.

Their friendship wasn't built on shared adventures or boisterous laughter. It was built on the subtle rhythm of his unwavering availability and her unconscious reliance. Elara would brainstorm aloud, pacing her studio, oblivious to Finn quietly organizing her chaotic notes or brewing her preferred herbal tea. She'd pour out her anxieties about an upcoming exhibition, and he'd simply sit, offering the silent, solid comfort of his presence, absorbing the storm without a ripple.

Everyone around Elara saw Finn as a shadow, a pleasant but unremarkable fixture. Elara herself, caught in the hurricane of her own brilliance, never truly saw him either—not in the way she saw her art, or her rivals, or her fleeting lovers. He was simply part of the fabric of her existence, like the sturdy walls of her studio.

Everyone around Elara saw Finn as a shadow, a pleasant but unremarkable fixture. Elara herself, caught in the hurricane of her own brilliance, never truly saw him either—not in the way she saw her art, or her rivals, or her fleeting lovers. He was simply part of the fabric of her existence, like the sturdy walls of her studio.

But as the days bled into weeks, the small omissions grew into gaping voids. The studio felt colder, quieter. Her thoughts, usually a cacophony, began to echo in an empty space. She found herself reaching for a comforting presence that wasn't there, waiting for a soft chuckle that never came. The disarray of her life, once managed by an invisible hand, became overwhelming. Deadlines slipped, inspiration faltered, and a gnawing unease began to settle in her chest.

It wasn’t just the practical help she missed; it was the silent understanding, the unspoken empathy. Without Finn, her triumphs felt hollow, her anxieties amplified. She realized, with a jolt that shook her to her core, that she had been living in a house built on an invisible foundation, and that foundation had silently crumbled.

The story culminates not in a tearful reunion or a grand declaration, but in Elara's slow, agonizing realization of the depth of her loss. She doesn't find Finn immediately, nor does he reappear with a dramatic flourish. Instead, it's about Elara, for the first time in her life, truly seeing the echo of his absence, understanding the profound, unacknowledged love that had quietly shaped her world. It’s about her embarking on a quest not just to find him, but to understand what it means to be truly seen, and to finally learn how to see in return.

This story explores the idea that friendship isn't always about grand gestures or reciprocal acts, but can be a silent, powerful force of support, unacknowledged until its absence reveals its indispensable nature. It delves into the tragedy of taking crucial relationships for granted and the profound awakening that comes from truly recognizing the quiet heroes in our lives.

The Guardians of Quiet Corners

Written By : Sonakshi Bahuguna

Purkal Youth Development Society Learning Academy

STORY 16

Eleanor lived with the silence. Not a peaceful quiet, but a vast, echoing emptiness left by the loss of her voice. A rare neurological condition had stolen it years ago, leaving her to communicate through a clunky text-to-speech device and the laborious art of written notes. Her world had shrunk, her old vibrant self fading into the background, replaced by the constant effort of being understood. She worked as a librarian, a profession she’d chosen because it offered quiet and minimal need for direct speech.

Across the worn wooden desk from her, often buried behind a mountain of returned books, sat Mr. Finch. He was old, with wispy white hair and eyes that seemed to hold centuries of untold stories. Mr. Finch was deaf. He had been so since birth, navigating the world through keen observation and the precise movements of sign language, which few others in their small town understood. He spent his days in the library, not reading, but simply being, a silent fixture, tracing patterns on dusty book covers, occasionally nodding sagely at something only he perceived.

Their friendship wasn't born of shared laughter or long conversations. It was born of shared solitude and a mutual understanding of a world that often failed to accommodate them. They were both islands in a sea of sound and chatter, but they were islands close enough to feel the other’s quiet presence.

Their interactions were sparse, almost ritualistic. Eleanor would slide a note across the desk if a new large-print book arrived that might interest him. Mr. Finch would respond with a slow, deliberate series of signs, which Eleanor, after years of observation and a few patient lessons from his niece, had begun to painstakingly learn. He'd offer her a small, knowing smile when a particularly noisy group of schoolchildren invaded the library, a gesture that spoke volumes about their shared irritation.

They didn’t talk about their conditions, didn’t offer sympathy. There was no need. They knew. Eleanor understood the frustration of trying to make herself heard in a world that prioritized verbal cues. Mr. Finch understood the exhaustion of constantly interpreting, of living in a world of muffled, unclear signals. Their understanding was deeper than words – it was the silent acknowledgement of a shared, unique struggle.

Their quiet camaraderie was a delicate thing, easily missed by others. Patrons saw Eleanor, the quiet librarian, and Mr. Finch, the eccentric old man who spent his days in the library. No one saw the subtle communication that flowed between them: the gentle tap of a pen on the counter to get attention, the specific angle of a head tilt, the shared, almost imperceptible shrug when someone spoke too loudly or too fast.

One chilly afternoon, a severe winter storm hit, knocking out power across the town, including the library. The silence deepened, becoming absolute. Panic rippled through the few remaining patrons. Eleanor's text-to-speech device, dependent on electricity, went dead. She was suddenly stripped of her last direct link to the speaking world. Fear, cold, and a profound sense of helplessness began to creep in.

Mr. Finch, however, remained calm. For him, the sudden silence was simply the usual state of things. He moved with purpose, his acute visual senses guiding him. He lit a battery-powered lantern he always carried, its warm glow cutting through the gloom. He then turned to Eleanor, and for the first time, used a more complex sequence of signs. He signed slowly, clearly, "You... are... not... alone. We... will... wait... together." Eleanor's eyes welled up. In that moment, seeing his familiar, steady movements, reading his reassuring signs in the flickering light, she felt a connection more profound than any spoken conversation she'd ever had. He wasn't trying to fix her or her situation; he was simply with her, truly present in a way no one else had ever been.

She fumbled for her notepad and pen, writing furiously in the dim light. She pushed the note to him: "Thank you. I understand." He read it, then reached across the desk and gently squeezed her hand – a rare, direct physical contact that sealed their unspoken pact.

As they sat in the quiet, lantern-lit library, waiting for the power to return, they were not just two people isolated by their conditions. They were two guardians of a unique, shared silence, finding profound comfort and connection in a world that had, for once, truly met them on their own terms. Their friendship was not about filling the silence, but about mastering it, together.

This story aims to explore how two individuals, each burdened by a different form of communication barrier, can find deep friendship not by overcoming their challenges for each other, but by sharing an unspoken understanding of those very challenges.

The Spark Nobody Knew

Written By : Aarti (age 14)

School : Class 8B | PYDS Learning Academy

STORY 17

In a quiet corner of Class 8B sat Aryan-a boy whose voice was softer than a whisper and whose presence was almost invisible.

Nobody knew what he loved, what he feared, or even what made him smile. Most students barely noticed him. But Noor did.

Noor was the kind of girl who found stars in the sky no one looked at. She noticed how Aryan always had a pencil tucked behind his ear, how he hummed softly when he thought no one was listening, and how he always cleaned his bench before sitting.

One day, while the rest of the class was busy writing about their 'best friend,' Noor hesitated. She hadn't written a single word.

When her teacher asked, she stood up, heart beating fast, and said, "My best friend doesn't even know he is my friend. He doesn't talk much. But he notices everything. He helped me when I dropped my notebook. He kept quiet when I cried. He doesn't laugh at me. He is... Aryan."

The room fell silent.

For the first time, Aryan looked up, eyes wide, and smiled-not the shy one he gave to the window, but a real, bright smile.

From that day, Aryan wasn't invisible anymore.

He was someone's friend.

And sometimes, that's all the spark someone needs.

Gaurav Chaurasiya

Written By : Aarti (age 14)

Class : 9 A

STORY 18

The story of Ram and Sita's friendship is a beautiful and inspiring tale from the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana. While Ram and Sita are often depicted as husband and wife, their bond can also be seen as a remarkable example of friendship.

The Early Days

Ram, the prince of Ayodhya, and Sita, the princess of Mithila, first met when Ram was a young prince. Sita was the adopted daughter of King Janak, who had found her in a furrow while plowing the land. Ram was immediately drawn to Sita's kindness, intelligence, and beauty.

A Bond Forms

As Ram and Sita spent more time together, they developed a deep and abiding friendship. They shared their thoughts, dreams, and aspirations with each other. Ram admired Sita's strength and courage, while Sita appreciated Ram's compassion and wisdom.

The Forest Years

When Ram was exiled to the forest for 14 years, Sita chose to accompany him, leaving behind her life of luxury and comfort. During their time in the forest, their friendship deepened as they relied on each other for support and companionship. They faced many challenges together, from battling demons to finding shelter and food.

Unwavering Loyalty

When Sita was kidnapped by Ravana, Ram's friendship and love for her became even more evident. He embarked on a perilous journey to rescue her, facing countless obstacles and dangers along the way. His unwavering loyalty and dedication to Sita are a testament to the strength of their bond.

A Lasting Legacy

The story of Ram and Sita's friendship serves as an inspiration to people around the world. Their bond teaches us the importance of loyalty, trust, and mutual respect in relationships. Even after all these years, their story continues to captivate hearts and minds, reminding us of the transformative power of true friendship.

In conclusion, the friendship of Ram and Sita is a shining example of what it means to stand by one another through thick and thin. Their story continues to inspire and motivate people to build strong, meaningful relationships in their own lives.

The Secret Garden Bench

Written By : Chriska W

STORY 20

Lila and Miram were the kind of best friends who could spend hours doing absolutely nothing and still have the best time ever. After school, they always raced down the narrow stone path behind the old library to their secret place — a tiny wooden bench hidden in a garden where wildflowers grew like a rainbow jungle.

One warm afternoon, Lila flopped down on the bench and sighed.

“This day was so long,” she groaned, kicking off her shoes.

Miram giggled. “You say that every day!”

Lila grinned. “Yeah, but today felt extra long. And—” She stopped suddenly, looking down at her wrist. Her eyes widened.

“Oh no…” she whispered. “No, no, no!”

Miram jumped up. “What happened?”

“My bracelet!” Lila held up her bare wrist. “The one you gave me! It’s gone!”

Miram’s mouth formed a little o. “When did you see it last?”

“I had it at lunch! I was playing with it under the table, remember?”

“Oh, Lila…” Miram said, but she was already scanning the grass. “Okay, Detective Miram is on the case!”

They searched everywhere. Lila crawled under the old wooden bench. Miram checked behind the rose bushes, careful not to prick her finger. They even looked under the gnarled old tree where they once buried a time capsule.

After what felt like forever, Lila sat back down, her shoulders drooping. “It’s really gone,” she said quietly. “I’m sorry, Miram.”

Miram plopped down next to her and poked her shoulder. “Hey, don’t be sorry. It’s just a bracelet. You’re more important.”

“But you gave it to me,” Lila said, blinking away a tear.

“I know,” Miram said softly. She twisted her own bracelet off — a bright pink beaded one that sparkled in the evening light. She held it out.

“Here. Take mine.”

Lila’s eyes went wide. “But that’s your favorite!”

“So? You’re my favorite,” Miram said, giggling. She carefully slipped it onto Lila’s wrist. “Now you’ll have a piece of me. And if we ever find your old bracelet, then you’ll have two. Double friendship power!”

Lila smiled, a real one this time, and hugged Miram so tight that Miram squeaked.

“Ow! Okay, squish me to pieces then!” Miram laughed.

They both lay back on the bench and stared up at the darkening sky. Fireflies blinked around them like tiny fairy lights.

“Promise me we’ll always come here,” Lila whispered.

“Promise,” Miram said. “Even when we’re old and have purple hair.”

Lila giggled. “Purple hair?”

“Yeah! We’ll be the coolest grandmas ever.”

They laughed so hard that the flowers seemed to sway with them. And right then, under the stars, Lila decided that losing a bracelet wasn’t the end of the world — because with Miram beside her, she could never really lose anything that mattered.

Gaurav Chaurasiya

Class : 9 A

STORY 21

Gaurav and Raunak, two inseparable friends, navigated the trials and triumphs of life together, their bond forged in childhood and strengthened by shared experiences. Their story, spanning years, is a testament to the enduring power of friendship, built on trust, mutual support, and unwavering loyalty.

Chapter 1: The Seeds of Friendship

The dusty, sun-baked streets of their small town were the backdrop for their early adventures. Gaurav, with his boundless energy and mischievous grin, was always the instigator, dragging Raunak, the more reserved and thoughtful one, into his escapades. Their friendship began in the first grade, a chance encounter in the schoolyard that blossomed into an unbreakable bond.

Their differences were stark, yet complementary. Gaurav was the daredevil, always ready for a new adventure, his mind teeming with wild ideas. Raunak, on the other hand, was the anchor, the voice of reason, often having to clean up the messes Gaurav left in his wake. Yet, these very differences were the glue that held them together. Gaurav's spontaneity kept Raunak from being overly cautious, while Raunak's grounded nature kept Gaurav from flying too close to the sun.

They spent their childhood exploring the local fields, building makeshift forts, and sharing secrets under the cloak of starry nights. Their parents often joked about their inseparable nature, predicting that they would be friends for life. Little did they know how prophetic their words would become.

The unbreakable bond

Written By : Irshad Ahmad

School : Purkal youth development society Learning Academy

STORY 22

Aarti and Kaira had been inseparable since the day they met in kindergarten. As they grew older, their friendship only deepened. They were like two peas in a pod, sharing every secret, dream, and adventure.

One fateful day, Aarti's family faced a financial crisis. Their father's business had taken a hit, and they had to move to a smaller house. Aarti was devastated, feeling like his world was crumbling. Kaira sensed her friend's distress and immediately swung into action.

Without hesitation, Kaira started a campaign at school to support Aarti's family. She rallied their friends, and together, they organized a fundraiser. They sold homemade crafts, baked goods, and even performed street plays to collect money.

As the days went by, the community came together to support Aarti's family. The fundraiser was a huge success, and Aarti's family was overwhelmed with gratitude. Aarti was touched by Kaira's selflessness and unwavering support.

Kaira's actions had not only helped Aarti's family financially but had also strengthened their bond. Aarti realized that true friends are the ones who stand by you through thick and thin. From then on, their friendship became unbreakable.

Years went by, and Aarti and Kaira pursued different careers. Aarti became a successful entrepreneur, while Kaira became a renowned artist. Despite their busy schedules, they always made time for each other.

One day, when Aarti faced another challenge, Kaira was there, just like she had always been. Aarti looked at Kaira and said, "You're more than just a friend; you're my rock, my confidante, my everything."

Kaira smiled and replied, "That's what friends are for, Aarti. We're in this together, always."

And so, their friendship continued to flourish, a testament to the power of true and unwavering support.

Moral: The friendship is the only bond which is Unbreakable and always trusted.

Thank you!!

When The Sky Turned Orange

Written By : Parth Singla

School : DTLS ( Dreamtime learning school)

STORY 23

— A Story of Friendship That Outlived Everything

A Short Friendship Story

Ayaan and Kabir were best friends from childhood in the peaceful town of Gulmarg. Ayaan was quiet and artistic, while Kabir was wild and full of life. They shared everything—dreams, secrets, and countless adventures.

But everything changed when Ayaan lost his father in a car accident. He stopped speaking and shut the world out. Everyone left—except Kabir. He stayed beside Ayaan every day, bringing him back to life with small gestures and silent support.

Years passed. Ayaan became an artist; Kabir joined the army. Every year, on 7th July, they promised to meet in Gulmarg. But one year, Kabir didn’t show up. The army said he had gone missing in the mountains.

On 7th July, Ayaan still went to their favorite bench with two cups of tea. As the sky turned orange, a voice whispered, “Sorry I’m late.”

Kabir had returned—scarred, tired, but alive.

They sat together in silence, proving once again that real friendship survives everything—even time, distance, and fear.

Moral of the story – True friendship always finds its way back—no matter how far or long it takes.

Seasons of Friendship

Written By : Raaina Kalra (age 12)

Class: 8A — Morning Batch

School: Dreamtime Learning School

STORY 24

In the spring, we ran through fields and collected flowers. The tips of our pink floral dresses used to get soggy and muddy, but we laughed it off.

In the spring, we chased the rabbits and named them after princesses. We never used to catch them though, so we just enjoyed the moment.

Now I walked past the flowers we collected and the rabbits we hopped along with.

The mud stained not my floral dress, but my black leathered boots.

I sat on a bench and wrote to my childhood best friend.

“Each petal of the flowers we loved reminds me of the memories we shared. I hope you count them too.”

I slipped it past the mailbox. Words would lay on my paper unread and forgotten, buried by a thousand memories of a ghost who lived in my heart.

In the summer, we would build sandcastles together. But the waves were against us and demolished our castles. Oh, how much we loathed the waves. Our sworn enemy.

In the summer, we ate bowls of ice cream while planning shows we would watch together in planned sleepovers, huddled in blankets together.

Now I walked past the beach, near the waves as I enjoyed the cool breeze that snuck past my hair. I sat on the hot wet sand and wrote to my childhood best friend.

“The taste of our memories mixed with ice cream still linger on my tongue and in my heart. Oh, and do you remember our enemies?”

The shadow of my fingers danced across the letters, each word stretched with hope and longing meant for a shadow just like mine, but no reply.

Yet the butterfly of hope still danced with graceful wings, carrying memories and nostalgia.

In the autumn, we danced in the rain. Our hair got damp and our moms got angry, but we just cared about dancing and enjoying life as it was.

In the autumn, we grew and explored together. I remember when you got your knee bruised for the first time. We learned how to bandage it and decorate it, of course.

Now, I walked past the orange and red-hued leaves, my feet crunching upon them.

I smiled at every distinct memory I remembered, a taste of nostalgia; bitter and sweet.

I got out my pen and wrote to my childhood best friend.

“If you ever feel hurt, or if you got bruised, just know that I’ll always be there with you in the shadows, unseen yet felt.”

I slipped the letter into the mailbox, my words getting swallowed by silence.

But they would always live in my heart.

In the winter, we snuggled over hot chocolate together after building snowmen. We would draw hearts in the thick, white snowy blanket enveloping the ground.

In the winter, we would fight and grow distant. The colder our city got, the colder our hearts got. But you would always melt the iceberg of my heart.

You would always give me your warmth. We would share tears and laughters together after.

Now I walked past the neighbourhood, your shadow next to mine. I could feel the cold touch of a ghost, reminding me of our bittersweet moments.

I took out my pen and paper and wrote down slowly to my childhood best friend.

“Do you still have the snowflake necklace? A promise of hope and love. You gave me your warmth, now I want to give you mine in the cold and darkest of nights.”

I slipped it past the mailbox.

I was prepared for my words to be swallowed by silence and darkness again; each word giving her shelter of warmth from my side, yet coldness embracing me back.

Winter was almost ending. I rushed to my mailbox and got out all the bills I had to pay. Life was so much harder now. It transitioned from dancing with your best friend in the rain to paying bills and taxes, praying for a job promotion.

Suddenly, a bunch of pink letters slipped out from my mailbox. I skeptically picked up the pink letters from the ground, reading deliberately.

“Dear Delilah,

I still count the petals of the lilies.

I still hate the wind and the waves.

I got surgery recently, but your voice echoed in my ears.

I wear a snowflake necklace every day. I get your warmth, and now, I hope to give you mine back.

Love, Lily.

Your best friend.”

Tears swelled up in my eyes. Suddenly, I felt warm. Even though it was still snowing outside, I felt like the sun was being sheltered only over me, embracing me with sunshine. Tears dropped on the letters as I held it close to my heart.

Seasons would change. So would friendship.

But just like seasons, friendship would always return.

Anupriya Kumari

Written By : Raaina Kalra (age 12)

STORY 25

When I joined the school .

I was not having any friends, I was alone.

" After a week one of my classmates came and said "can you become my friend".

Then I said sure I will become your friend.

After that we became best friends and it was the most beautiful year of my life.

Whenever the teacher gives us some activity to do we both raise our hands and say we will participate.

Then one day the teacher came and asked who the students were going to participate in fancy dress

My friend raised her hand but I did not because I was nervous to go on the stage and she said to me if you don't believe in yourself you will never be successful in your life.

Then I also participated in the fancy dress competition but still I was nervous, and the day when the competition was there I dressed and came and my friend also dressed and came

And when the result had come then I came to know that I got the first place and my friend got the second place we were so happy that we cannot stop our happiness.

And when we reached the standard first my friends said that I will not be coming to school because I am leaving the school.

I was very sad that my friend was going and he wanted her to be sad.

But still we talk on the mobile phone.

When I was in first standard my classmate came near me and said let us be best friends.

I said okay we will and from the first standard we were friends but after that the corona virus came.

And we stayed at our houses and after 2 years again made it to class 3rd but she changed completely and stopped talking with me and she was talking with someone else and when I went to her she said you are not my friend please get out I was very sad.

No one was my friend that time.

Then when we reach to 4th standard a new friend who came in my life and she bright and my life and still she is my friend not a best friend but just a friend she helps me in my difficulties she always trusts me I till now she is my friend she is on other division but still.

We have the same tuition. And I am very lucky to have this kind of friend.

The Missing Dog

Written By : Abigail Lejun Rodrigo (age 12)

School: Don Bosco Senior Secondary School, Nerul

STORY 26

It was a chilly winter evening when my mom and I stumbled upon a scruffy street dog while shopping for winter clothes.

The little pup's big brown eyes melted my heart, and as soon as I picked him up, he snuggled into my arms, tail wagging furiously.

"Thanks, mom, you're the best!" I exclaimed when she agreed to let me bring him home.

When we got home, Wincinda immediately darted into the bathroom. I fed him dog food, and he settled in for a cozy nap.

In the evening, we played hide-and-seek, and I knew I'd found a perfect friend.

"Mom, I'm going to name him Wincinda," I announced.

"Okay, you can name him Wincinda," my mom replied, "but you need to promise me you'll always take care of him."

But the next day, disaster struck – Wincinda went missing! I searched high and low, visited the local animal shelter, and even sat on a bridge, hoping he'd magically appear. I was devastated, worried that my mom would be disappointed in me.

When we went to investigate, my dad walked in and asked, "What's going on with Wincinda?"

My mom and I exchanged curious glances. "How did you know Wincinda's name?" I asked.

My dad looked sheepish, with white-brown fur covering his clothes. "This fur is from my pet in Australia," he explained.

"I travel there every year for holidays, but your brother, Keeth, hates it."

I couldn't believe it. "You stole Wincinda?" I asked, trying to hide a smile.

My dad chuckled and handed Wincinda over to me. I forgave him, overjoyed to be reunited with my furry friend.

A mother as a friend

Written By : Tanvi Thapli (age 12)

School: Purkul youth development society learning academy

STORY 27

* Everyone wants their mothers to talk as a friend with them.

This is a story of a very studious and determined child Nikhil Thapli. Nikhil is a boy from a small village in Dehradun there were no such facilities in his village that could benefit him.

He wanted to join Indian naval services from his early childhood and he also worked very hard for it.

His mother was the biggest reason behind Nikhil' s dream to come true.His mother was not educated still she helped Nikhil in every way.

One day , Nikhil's mother asked him that - Nikhil, don't you have any friends? Nikhil said I do have mum but why are you asking such questions? She said, I'll tell but before telling, call your friends.

Nikhil asked but why mum? You just call, she said ok mum said Nikhil.

His mother told him to ask for help regarding money from his friends.

Everyone denied then, his mother explained to him that a true friend is forever ready to help you but you saw that your friends didn't help you this means they are not your true friends.

Nikhil was quite sad and he started asking different questions from his mother just because he was worried then, his mother said that leave everyone from today, I'm your best friend but remember a best friend scolds you too.

After that Nikhil studied really hard to get his and his mother's dream to come true.

Finally the exam days started.

There was silence and panic in the home but Nikhil's mother was not tense at all because she knew that her friend could do it.

His mother was confident about Nikhil.

The result day came and Nikhil cracked the exam, this made him and his mother feel more confident.

On the interview day Nikhil was questioned by one of the interviewers who was the person who helped you in the preparation.

Nikhil giggled and said sir I was helped by my best friend.

The interviewer said that how can a best friend helped you then Nikhil said that sir, my bestfriend is my mother.

The interviewer said that how can your mother be your best friend, then Nikhil said that sir you don't know that your mother is your bestest friend because she helps you in every situation she never leaves your hand , listening to this, the interviewers were amazed.

Today Nikhil is an nda offìcer and this is just because of his mother.

So this is a story for people who think that they do not have a friend , but they never know that their mother is the truest friend in the world.

Thankyou & Regards

Tanvi

The Spark Nobody Knew

Written By : Aarti (age 14)

School: Class 8B | PYDS Learning Academy

STORY 28

In a quiet corner of Class 8B sat Aryan-a boy whose voice was softer than a whisper and whose presence was almost invisible.

Nobody knew what he loved, what he feared, or even what made him smile. Most students barely noticed him. But Noor did.

Noor was the kind of girl who found stars in the sky no one looked at. She noticed how Aryan always had a pencil tucked behind his ear, how he hummed softly when he thought no one was listening, and how he always cleaned his bench before sitting.

One day, while the rest of the class was busy writing about their 'best friend,' Noor hesitated. She hadn't written a single word.

When her teacher asked, she stood up, heart beating fast, and said, "My best friend doesn't even know he is my friend. He doesn't talk much. But he notices everything. He helped me when I dropped my notebook. He kept quiet when I cried. He doesn't laugh at me. He is... Aryan."

The room fell silent.

For the first time, Aryan looked up, eyes wide, and smiled-not the shy one he gave to the window, but a real, bright smile.

From that day, Aryan wasn't invisible anymore.

He was someone's friend.

And sometimes, that's all the spark someone needs.

Neefa Barreto

Written By : Aarti (age 14)

STORY 29

Once there was a giraffe who was all alone in the forest.

It wanted to be friends with other animals.the giraffe went to a monkey and asked will you be my friend? The monkey was very proud, it said.you are too tall to swing on trees like me l cannot be your friend.

Then the giraffe went to a frog and asked, will you be my my friend?the frog was very arrogant, it said, you cannot hope like me so we cannot be friends.

The giraffe then said, to be friends we just need love and care for each other, so that we can help each other whenever the time comes friendship doesn't require any ability or false pride, the frog and the monkey realised their mistake. Then all three became best friends.

Moral : friendship requires only love and care.

Forever in the folded paper

Written By : Aanchal singh (Age 14)

School: sunbeam school

STORY 30

vere more than best Rudra and Aayush Friends-they were brothers in every way except blond. From climbing mango trees to getting scolded for talking in class, they had done everything together.Where Rudra went, Aayush followed where Aayush laughed, Rudra laughed louder.

They had dreams too-becoming soldiers, ofighting side by side, protecting their country, their people, each other.

One rainy evening, Aayush didn't come to School. Fever", said someone in class. " He'll be back tomorrow", Rudra replied, smiling." He never miss science class".

But Aayush didn't return the next day also. No one know's that what happened with Aayush. He didn't come the day after.

The room went silent

Rudra didn't cry. He just stared at the empty bench beside him. Far days. He didn't Speak to anyone. Aayush was only the bay with Cobom Rudra talk most. He stopped eating lunch. He kept bringing an extra sandwich, like always -placing it beside him

One day, the school peon handed him a Small, folded paper. It was a Aayush. letter... From

"Rudra,

If you are reading this, it means I couldn't Say goodbye in person. Don't cry for me, okay? You were my greatest gift in this life life. Thank you for every laugh, every moment, every silly fight

I know one day you'll become a soldier. A brave one. But promise me one thing-you will keep smiling. For me.

I will be watching you... from the sky.

Your brother,

"Aayush."

Rudra clutched the letter to his chest. And for the first time in days, he cried. Not loudly, not widry-but the kind of cry that comes from a heart too full of love ... and loss. The letter never left his pocket.

Years later, Rudra became cwhat had dreamed - a soldier. they And every time he looked at the stars, The whispered, "can you see me now, Anyush? I kept my promises.

Some friendships go beyond time, beyond life- they live forever, in letters, in promises, and in the quiet corners of the heard.

But inside his pocket of his uniform, even in the battlefield, there remained one forted letter-yeuow cuith time, soft at the edges .... yet never forgotten.

The letter he never got to cread from the Voice that never left him.

BEST FRIENDS TO STRANGERS TO FOREVERS

Written By : Swati Maurya (Age 13)

School: pyds learning academy

STORY 31

The bell for first grade had barely rung when Ranu and I found each other, two small figures in oversized uniforms, drawn together by an unspoken understanding. From that day on, our lives intertwined. We shared secrets, whispered jokes during class, navigated the confusing world of elementary school hand-in-hand, and celebrated every small victory together. Through scraped knees, forgotten homework, and countless shared lunches, our friendship blossomed, a vibrant tapestry woven with laughter and unwavering loyalty. By the time we reached seventh grade, our bond felt unbreakable, a given in the chaotic symphony of school life.

But then, as exams approached in seventh grade, a subtle shift began. It started innocently enough, with a few girls from our class always hovering, interjecting themselves whenever Ranu and I were deep in conversation. Their presence, initially a minor annoyance, soon became a wedge. Little by little, the easy flow of our talks became strained. Misunderstandings grew, fueled by unspoken words and the constant interference. The once vibrant threads of our friendship began to fray, slowly, almost imperceptibly at first.

By the time we stepped into the eighth grade, the vibrant tapestry had unraveled completely. Ranu and I, who had once been inseparable, now moved through the school hallways like strangers. Our eyes would meet sometimes, a flicker of something unreadable passing between us before we quickly looked away. The silence that had replaced our constant chatter felt heavy, a constant reminder of what we had lost.

Our classmates, who had witnessed our journey from the very beginning, felt the void too. They were unhappy, sensing the missing piece in our class's dynamic. A quiet mission began to brew among them, a collective determination to mend what had been broken. They called it "Strangers to Best Friends," and their goal was ambitious: to make us talk again before the upcoming unit tests. Even our English teacher, observing the palpable tension between us, became a silent ally in this mission.

But they underestimated Swati's stubbornness, a trait that had always been a part of her, now magnified by the hurt and distance. Despite their best efforts, their attempts to bring us together met with a wall of polite but firm resistance. Days turned into weeks, and the unit tests loomed closer, yet the chasm between Ranu and me remained.

Then, something unexpected happened. Swati and Ranu, perhaps through sheer proximity in class or a shared moment, started exchanging a few words. It wasn't a grand reunion, but a tiny crack in the wall, a hesitant acknowledgment. Meanwhile, our friend Aarushi, a keen observer of human nature, had been quietly weaving our story into a narrative of her own. She wrote a story about us, about our journey from best friends to strangers, capturing the nuances of our broken bond and the longing for its repair.

When our English teacher read Aarushi's story, the full depth of our situation became clear. The unspoken pain, the silent wishes of our classmates, and the lingering hope of reconciliation were all laid bare on the pages. The teacher, touched by Aarushi's words, decided to take a direct approach.

The next day in English class, she asked Aarushi to read her story aloud. As Aarushi's voice filled the room, detailing the playful beginnings, the subtle interference, the growing distance, and the quiet ache of a lost friendship, Swati and Ranu listened, each in their own world of reflection. When Aarushi finished, the room was silent.

Our teacher then spoke, "Aarushi has beautifully captured something important here. Sometimes, the most precious things are lost not through grand betrayals, but through small misunderstandings and the noise of others. What do you two think?" she gently prompted, looking at Swati and Ranu.

Ranu's eyes welled up first. "I… I just missed her," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Swati, usually so stoic, felt a lump in her throat. Hearing their story from an outsider's perspective, stripped of the anger and pride, made her see how foolish their fight had been. The triviality of the initial conflict, compared to the years of shared laughter and support, suddenly became glaringly obvious. "Me too, Ranu," she admitted, her voice cracking. "I'm so sorry."

At that moment, the wall between them crumbled. Slowly, hesitantly, they reached out, their hands meeting across the aisle. A quiet, tearful hug followed, a silent promise to rebuild what had been lost. The class erupted in soft cheers and relieved smiles. The "Strangers to Best Friends" mission, against all odds, had succeeded.

From that day on, the school hallways echoed with their familiar chatter once more. Their bond, tested by distance and misunderstanding, had not only mended but had grown stronger, fortified by the understanding that true friendship could weather any storm. They learned that sometimes, it takes the perspective of a true friend, and the wisdom of a caring teacher, to remind you of the irreplaceable treasure you already hold.

This is a real story based on a real incident.

Bonds Beyond Measure

Written By : Sarika Bhagat (Age 14)

School: Purkal Youth Development society

STORY 32

In the bustling corridors of Sunshine High School, amidst the chaos of exams, sports, and clubs, there existed an unbreakable bond between three friends - Aarav, Maya, and Rohan. Their friendship was a blend of creativity, laughter, and a deep understanding of one another, nurtured through countless moments of joy and challenges.

Aarav, the tech whiz, was always tinkering with new gadgets and coding projects. Maya, with her artistic flair, painted the walls of the school with murals that spoke of dreams and hope. Rohan, the star of the school basketball team, balanced sports with a passion for writing stories that captured the hearts of his friends.

One day, the school announced a creativity competition -"The Sunshine Fest." Students were challenged to showcase their talents in art, tech, or writing to create an installation that represented the spirit of friendship. Aarav, Maya, and Rohan decided to team up, pouring their creativity into a project that would highlight the essence of their bond.

Maya designed a breathtaking mural depicting three intertwined trees, symbolizing their friendship. Aarav worked on an interactive tech component where visitors could input words of friendship, and a LED display would light up with messages of unity and support. Rohan wrote a short story about three travelers navigating through a storm together, finding strength in their friendship, which would be displayed alongside the mural.

As the day of Sunshine Fest arrived, their installation stole the show. Students and teachers alike were moved by the emotional impact of their project. The intertwined trees stood tall, surrounded by glowing messages of friendship on the LED display. Rohan's story, displayed on panels around the mural, brought tears of joy to many eyes.

The judges were impressed by the creativity (30%), structure & clarity (25%), language & expressions (25%), and emotional impact (20%) of their project. Aarav, Maya, and Rohan won the first prize for their collaborative effort. But more than the prize, they cherished the celebration of their friendship.

As they accepted their award, Aarav said, "Friendship isn't just about being together; it's about creating something beautiful together." Maya smiled, adding, "Like art, friendship is a masterpiece we paint with love." Rohan concluded, "In the story of life, friends are the characters that make the plot unforgettable."

Their friendship stood as a testament to the power of unity, creativity, and emotional connection. In the end, Aarav, Maya, and Rohan knew that no matter where life took them, their bond would remain unbreakable.

THE INVASION THAT COULDN’T BREAK US

Written By : Nabhan Jamshad (Age 12)

School: Oasis International School, Bangalore

STORY 33

‘What if friends never existed? What if it was all a lie?’ The thought barged into my head like masked criminals at half-past-three on a Sunday morning. Unfortunately, it was just me, trying to comfort myself for not having any friends I trust or seek aid from. I heaved a sigh. A frosty winter breeze swept my face through the black grills of my surprisingly large window. I slumped in my chair, contemplating recent life choices. Out of the blue, when I was in deep thought, my mum called me. I rushed down the stairs, skipped a step or two, and was soon at the service. She asked me to get the groceries from the local supermarket. Going outside was something I didn’t enjoy, especially when I was unaccompanied. Anyways, I had nothing else to do or any choice.

The scene outside was cloudy, and it felt like the trees were fast asleep, and the people displayed their sulky faces with their hands in their jacket pockets. Little did I know, the best moment in my life was not far off.

Right as I walked into the supermarket, I grabbed the crumpled chit which was slipped into my jean pocket by my mother—I was awfully forgetful. I first headed to the dairy section for milk. I was met with a quite peculiar sight of a boy my age dancing gracefully while dodging other shopping carts in his way, gripping a fragile bottle of milk. As I predicted, the boy soon tripped over and spilled milk all around! I hurried over to help him, but I was jinxed; I lost my footing on the very puddle of milk. I was not surprised to see us both cracking up for a minute or so. I chuckled so hard my abs cramped. We helped each other up and headed back to get our stuff. On my way, he intercepted me, claiming he’d seen me in the neighbourhood! We spoke for a good while and decided to meet up the next day. I couldn’t believe it! He seemed genuine, too, unlike the other kids out there. I finally got to sense the distingué aroma of true friendship. Oh! And to mention, his name was Ed. I went home and told Mum all about it.

We’d been friends for months (even though it felt like years), hanging out almost every day. He earned my trust, and I gained his, too. I’ve never had a friend like him before. We were like true brothers.

One atrocious morning, nothing seemed right. There are bad days-but then there was today. Abnormal catastrophes and troubled humans and animals. No sun at 9 am in the morning?! Everyone was baffled and knew something wasn’t right. The insane story flashed across news channels. Apparently, an astrophysicist was experimenting with interplanetary transmissions through electromagnetic signals with a supposedly alien civilization from a new planet called Nebulon II. The aliens did not accept this and were heavily agitated and decided to declare war on Earth. And guess what? Their first move was occluding the Sun. We never expected what was coming next.

The next harsh day for Earth: Neon-lighted, alien spaceships designed using tech from what looked like a billion years in the future surrounded Earth. The worst part? Ash gray creatures, which I assumed were aliens, started dropping down from the sky as precisely as a starving harpy eagle. My heart raced as I sprinted to Ed’s house down the block, hoping he was alright. The aliens have almost landed, but I made it just in time. When I got there, I spotted Ed peeking out the window, probably waiting for me. We embraced each other in the relief of meeting. Out of nowhere, the aliens were on the move. We didn’t realise our parents were already in the shelter. We figured out that we were all alone. An alien suddenly barged in through the door, armed with high-tech weapons. Ed and I tried ducking behind the couch. It was too late. Ed got shot in the arm. It was a horrible sight. I could feel the alien approaching us with its silent footsteps. I had two choices: either save myself (less risky) or save both of us.

The flashback of our moments hit me… us meeting in the silliest way possible, and the times we saved each other from the bullies, or even the prank calls we made through our mothers’ phones, which they were mad at us for. It felt like an eternity. But it was enough to make a decision. Save him. I grabbed his bony arm and explained, “Either we die together, or not at all!”. I carried him in my arms and sprinted to the nearest bedroom. He was bleeding nonstop with barely any consciousness. The alien’s overpowered aim was no match for us. It got him. Right at his head. My knees dropped. His heartbeat stopped. I revealed myself to the dull-faced alien. I failed Ed. I stood straight up, face-to-face with the alien. “Bang!”

He wasn’t going alone. Now that… is friendship.

Friendship

Written By : Riya Vishwakar

STORY 34

Riya and shivani, Childhood friends, Rad had ره disagreement Ch beach walk that result in shivani slapping Riya.

haust and wrote in the sand. Today my best friends slapped me. Later, while Swimming, Riya started to down, and Shivani immediately saved have. This time Riya Carved On a stone, Today Today my best friend saved my life when Riya explained that huvuts should be written in Sand causily erased by four to. Be causily by forgivness while good's deeds should be engraved in never forgotten.

Stone so they are This experience Friendship through understanding the power of forgiveness

The Art of Support

Written By : Armish

School: Purkal youth development society Learning Academy

STORY 35

Sana and Emma had been friends since college, despite being from different backgrounds. Sana was a free-spirited artist, while Emma was a Type-A engineer.

One day, Sana faced a major setback when her art studio was destroyed in a fire. She lost all her paintings, supplies, and equipment. Emma sprang into action, organizing a fundraiser and rallying their friends to support Sana.

Emma's practicality and problem-solving skills helped Sana navigate the chaos. Meanwhile, Sana's creativity and positivity inspired Emma to see the world from a different perspective.

As Sana rebuilt her studio, Emma was there every step of the way, offering emotional support and helping with the logistics.

Sana's art studio eventually reopened, thanks to Emma's unwavering support. Sana thanked Emma, saying, "You're more than just a friend; you're my anchor in storms. Your support means the world to me."

The Empty Desk

Written By : Parth singla

School - DTLS ( dreamtime learning school )

STORY 36

A Short Friendship Story

Every school has that one unbreakable duo. For Class 9A, it was Riya and Meher.

From sharing tiffins to writing notes in code language, they were inseparable. Everyone called them “the two halves of one brain.” Even their dreams were connected—both wanted to become doctors and work at the same hospital.

But just before final exams, Meher fell seriously ill. A rare condition. Days turned into hospital visits. Riya stopped laughing, stopped doing group work, and every day after school, she sat by Meher’s hospital bed reading their science books aloud.

Despite her weak body, Meher kept saying, “You have to top this time—for both of us.”

Riya studied harder than ever before. On the day of the exam results, she came first in class.

She rushed to the hospital with her result card in hand. But when she reached, Meher’s bed was empty.

She had passed away an hour earlier.

Riya quietly placed her result sheet under Meher’s pillow and whispered, “We did it.”

Years later, Riya became a doctor. On her desk, next to her degree, sat an old photo of two smiling girls with a caption: “For Meher—who never left my side, even when she couldn’t stay.”

The Last Project

Written By : Parth Singla

School: DTLS (Dreamtime Learning School)

STORY 37

In Class 10 at Dreamtime Learning School, two very different students were paired for the annual tech exhibition. One of them was Aarav Sharma—a quiet, focused student who loved coding. His partner was the opposite—Vivaan Mehta, loud, energetic, and full of jokes.

At first, they didn’t get along. Aarav wanted everything neat and perfect. Vivaan wanted fun. But as the days passed, they began to understand each other. Late-night coding sessions, shared samosas, and endless bugs turned their project into a bond.

Together, they built a robot that could solve a Rubik’s cube. Their teachers and classmates were amazed. They were all set to present it together—and win.

But just two days before the exhibition, Vivaan was hit by a car and hospitalized.

Aarav was shattered. He almost gave up. But then he remembered all the effort, the laughs, and the promise: “No matter what, we finish this together.”

On the day of the exhibition, Aarav stood alone. The robot stood beside him—silent but working.

Aarav spoke softly to the crowd: “This project was never mine alone. Every wire, every piece of code has my best friend’s soul in it. He may not be here—but he is with me.”

There was complete silence, and then the entire hall clapped.

They won first prize.

Weeks later, Vivaan returned. Still weak, but smiling. Together, they placed their robot in the school trophy cabinet with a note:

“Built by Aarav & Vivaan – One Coded, One Inspired. Powered by Friendship.”

Moral:

True friendship means showing up, believing in each other, and finishing what you started—even when one of you can’t be there.

The Bench Under the Rain Tree

Written By : Parth Singla

School: DTLS (Dreamtime Learning School)

STORY 38

There was a quiet bench under an old rain tree near the back wall of the school. For years, that bench belonged to two inseparable friends — Ishaan and Rudraksh.

They met in Class 6, both new to school, both shy, both sitting alone. A teacher paired them up for a group project, and that’s where it began. From awkward introductions to laughing over failed art assignments, their bond became the strongest in school.

Every day during recess, they would meet at the bench under the rain tree — sharing lunch, secrets, and dreams. Rudraksh wanted to become a pilot. Ishaan, a writer. “One day, you’ll fly the plane, and I’ll write the story,” Ishaan used to joke.

By Class 10, they were more like brothers than friends.

But life had its own plan.

Just a week before the final exams, Rudraksh fell seriously ill. The diagnosis was leukemia. He had to leave school and begin treatment immediately.

At first, Ishaan was broken. But then he did what real friends do—he stayed. Every weekend, he visited the hospital. He read to Rudraksh. He made him laugh. He kept him updated with school stories and shared notes.

One afternoon, Rudraksh looked out the hospital window and said, “Don’t let our bench be empty. Promise me you’ll keep sitting there—for both of us.”

Ishaan promised.

Rudraksh passed away two months later.

Ishaan kept his promise. Every single day, he sat at the bench during recess. Alone—but never lonely. His notebook always by his side, writing stories Rudraksh would’ve loved.

Years later, that bench had a new plaque:

“In Memory of Rudraksh – Pilot of Dreams. Loved, Missed, and Remembered by His Best Friend.”

And below it, in smaller letters: “Some friendships never end. They just live in different ways.”

Moral:

True friendship doesn’t end with goodbye. It lives on—in memories, promises, and the quiet spaces you once shared.

The Phone Call

Written By : Parth Singla

School: DTLS (Dreamtime Learning School)

STORY 39

Reyansh and Advik had been best friends since nursery. They grew up in the same neighborhood, studied in the same class, and even shared the same dream—to go to IIT and become engineers.

They were like two puzzle pieces: Reyansh was organized, calm, and always focused on goals. Advik was a free spirit—funny, outgoing, but never took things too seriously.

Everyone thought Reyansh would top the school. But he always said, “I’ll only call it success if we both succeed.”

Then came the entrance exams.

Reyansh studied 14 hours a day. He reminded Advik to stay focused, sent him notes, even helped him when he fell behind.

But a week before the final test, something changed. Advik stopped answering messages. He stopped coming to school. Rumors spread—he had failed a practice test badly and completely lost confidence.

Reyansh tried calling. Nothing.

On the night before the exam, Reyansh sat on his balcony, staring at his books. He picked up his phone and sent one final message:

“I’m not asking you to pass, bro. I’m asking you to show up. That’s all that matters.”

At 5:00 AM, Reyansh’s phone rang.

It was Advik.

“I’m coming. For us.”

Both sat for the exam.

Weeks later, when results came out, Reyansh had ranked in the top 200. But instead of celebrating, he rushed to Advik’s house.

Advik had passed too—not in the top ranks, but he had made it.

They hugged without a word. That moment meant more than any rank ever could.

Moral:

A true friend doesn’t just cheer for your success—they push you through your darkest doubts, even if it means carrying you to the finish line.

The Lost Shoes

Written By : Parth Singla

School: DTLS (Dreamtime Learning School)

STORY 40

Arjun and Mihir had been friends since Class 4. They weren’t the richest kids in school, but they had the richest bond anyone had ever seen.

Arjun was quiet and brilliant at drawing. Mihir was a fast runner and loved sports. They were always together—one carried pencils, the other carried a football.

One winter, the school announced a Sports Day race. Mihir was sure he could win. But there was one problem—his shoes had holes in them.

They both laughed about it, but Arjun could see the sadness in Mihir’s eyes. He didn’t say anything.

That weekend, Arjun didn’t eat ice cream or buy sketch pens. He saved every coin his mother gave him. On Monday, he came to school with a box—inside was a pair of second-hand but perfectly polished running shoes.

Mihir was shocked. “How did you—?”

Arjun smiled, “Let’s just say... I skipped a few snacks.”

Mihir wore those shoes and won the 400-meter race. But when he was called up on stage to receive the medal, he took it off and handed it to Arjun.

“This isn't just mine. It belongs to the friend who gave me wings.”

The whole auditorium clapped.

The next day, a small quote was written on the blackboard outside their classroom:

“Friendship isn’t measured by what we give, but by what we’re willing to give up.”

Moral:

True friendship is not about money or medals—it’s about sacrifices, silent support, and believing in each other more than we believe in ourselves.

The Last Letter

Written By : Parth Singla

School: DTLS (Dreamtime Learning School)

STORY 41

Karan and Shaurya were inseparable. They were the kind of friends who finished each other’s sentences and shared secrets no one else knew. They met in Class 6 and from then on, nothing could separate them—except for one thing: life.

As the years passed, Karan focused on his studies while Shaurya’s heart was more about playing football. They were different, but they balanced each other.

When it was time to choose a career, Karan wanted to be a doctor, and Shaurya, a lawyer. Their paths seemed far apart. Shaurya kept encouraging Karan to take a break, go out, enjoy life. But Karan’s dreams were bigger, and his drive was stronger. He thought Shaurya wasn’t serious enough. They started drifting apart.

One evening, Karan received an urgent call from Shaurya’s mother. Shaurya had been in a car accident. Karan rushed to the hospital.

Shaurya was unconscious, but his mother handed Karan a letter. It was from Shaurya.

The letter read:

“Dear Karan,

I know you’re busy chasing your dreams, but I just wanted to remind you that life is more than books, exams, and awards. Don’t forget to live for the moments in between. Make sure you don’t lose yourself in the rush. I’ll always be proud of you, no matter where you go.

Your best friend, Shaurya.”

Karan cried silently, holding the letter close to his heart.

Shaurya passed away the next morning.

Years later, Karan became a doctor, but he never forgot the lessons Shaurya had taught him. Every day, he made sure to find moments of joy—whether it was with his family, friends, or even strangers. He kept Shaurya’s memory alive by living fully, just as Shaurya had asked him to.

Moral:

True friendship doesn’t just stand beside you in good times; it also leaves lessons for you to carry forward—lessons that shape who you become.

The Jar of Stars

Written By : Parth Singla

School: DTLS (Dreamtime Learning School)

STORY 42

In a small school classroom sat two best friends — Neil and Kabir. They had been together since Class 3. Every year, they promised to sit beside each other, take part in the same competitions, and share every tiffin box.

But Class 9 was different.

Neil had been quiet lately. He stopped coming to football practice, stopped laughing at Kabir’s silly jokes, and started sitting at the back of the class. Kabir noticed, but Neil never opened up.

Then one evening, while walking home, Kabir saw Neil sitting alone on a park bench, looking at the sky. He sat beside him and said, “You’ve been fading like a light. Talk to me.”

Neil finally spoke. His father had lost his job, and things at home weren’t the same. “I just don’t feel like myself anymore,” he said softly.

The next day, Kabir came to school with a small glass jar. Inside were folded pieces of paper shaped like stars.

“This is the Jar of Stars,” he said. “Every day, I’ll give you one star with a reason why you matter.”

Neil smiled for the first time in weeks.

Every day, Kabir kept his promise.

“You’re the best at art.”

“You helped me when I had no idea what to say in my debate.”

“You’re stronger than you think.”

Neil kept those stars in his bag like treasure. He started smiling again. Slowly, he came back to football, group study, and life.

At the end of the year, Neil stood on stage to win the "Best Comeback of the Year" award.

He held up the jar and said:

“Sometimes, when your world goes dark, all it takes is one friend to hand you a jar of stars.”

The room clapped, but Kabir just smiled from the front row—knowing his job was done.

Moral:

Friendship is not just about being there for the laughs—it’s about showing up with light when someone else’s world feels dark.

The Wall Between Us

Written By : Parth Singla

School: DTLS (Dreamtime Learning School)

STORY 43

Yuvraj and Dev had been neighbors since they were toddlers. They lived in flats separated by just one wall, and their friendship was just as close. Every evening, they would tap the wall twice — their secret signal — before rushing outside to meet and play.

As they grew older, life got more serious. School, tuitions, exams — the playtime grew shorter, but the wall taps never stopped. Tap-tap, then they’d meet.

But then, a small misunderstanding broke everything.

One day during an interschool competition, Dev accidentally took credit for a science model that Yuvraj had mostly made. He didn't mean to—he just panicked on stage. But Yuvraj felt betrayed.

That night, the wall was silent.

No taps.

No meeting.

No messages.

Days passed. Weeks. They stopped talking at school. Their parents noticed, but neither of them said a word.

Then one day, Yuvraj came home to find a note stuck on his side of the wall.

It read:

“I miss the tap. I miss my friend. I didn’t mean to take credit — I just froze. If you’re still angry, don’t reply. But if you’re still my friend… just tap once tonight.”

Yuvraj stared at the wall that had always brought them together. That night, with a lump in his throat, he reached out…

Tap.

The next evening, they met like nothing had ever happened. No drama, no long apology. Just two best friends, sitting on the steps, sipping juice, smiling in silence.

Moral:

Friendship isn’t about never making mistakes—it’s about forgiving the ones who matter and choosing to rebuild what’s real.

The Debate That Never Happened

Written By : Parth Singla

School: DTLS (Dreamtime Learning School)

STORY 44

Ishaan and Ravi had one goal that year — to win the Inter-school Debate Championship. They had practiced for weeks, written and rewritten their arguments, and even argued over who would say the final punchline.

But the night before the big event, Ravi didn’t show up online for their practice. No texts. No calls.

Ishaan was furious.

He went alone the next day. Ready to take on the entire debate by himself.

Before his round began, his teacher walked up to him and whispered, “Ravi had a family emergency. His mother was admitted last night. He tried to call, but his phone died.”

Ishaan’s hands trembled. His anger melted into guilt.

He stood at the podium. Everyone waited for him to start the debate.

But instead of speaking, Ishaan looked up and said into the mic:

“My partner couldn’t be here today. And I won’t speak without him. Because this debate — this victory — was never mine alone.”

Gasps filled the auditorium. Some clapped. Some frowned.

Later, when the judges asked him why he gave up his chance, Ishaan simply said,

“Some wins are not worth taking alone.”

That evening, Ravi got a message while sitting at the hospital:

We didn’t win the debate. But I won my brother.

Moral:

True friendship isn’t about standing out — it’s about standing beside.

Forever in the Folded paper

Written By : Aanchal singh(Age 14)

School: Sunbeam school

STORY 45

Rudra and Aayush were more than best Friends-they were brothers in every way except blood. From climbing mango trees to getting scolded for talking in class, they had done everything together.Where Rudra went, Aayush followed where Aayush laugher, Rudra laughed louder.

They had dreams. too - becoming soldiers, fighting side by side, protecting their country, their people, each other.

One rainy evening, Aayush didn't come to School. "Fever", said someone in class. " He'll be back tomorrow", Rudra replied, smiling." He never miss science class".

But Aayush didn't return the next day also. No one know's that what happened with Aayush. He didn't come the day after.

A week later, their class teacher entered the class, eyes red. "Children", said softly. 66 Aayush is no longer with us. His illness spread too fast. He passed away last night".

The room went silent.

Rudra didn't cry. He just stared at the empty bench beside him. Far days. He didn't Speak to anyone. Aayush was only the boy with whom Audra talk most. He stopped eating lunch. He kept bringing an extra sandwich, like always -placing it beside mim.

One day, the school peon handed him a small, folder paper. It was a letter... From Aayush.

Rudra,

If you are reading this, it means I couldn't Say goodbye in person. Won't cry for me, okay? You were my greatest gift in this life. Thank you for every laugh, every moment, every silly fight

I know one day you'll become a soldier. A brave one. But promise me one thing-you will keep smiling. For me.

I will be watching you... from the sky.

Your brother,

Aayush.

Rudra clutched the letter to his chest. And for the first time in days, he cried. Not loudly, not widly-but the kind of cry that comes from a heart too full of love ... and loss. The letter never left his pocket.

Years later, Rudra became what they had dreamed - a soldier.

And every time he looked at the stars, he whispered, "can you see me now, Aayush? I kept my promise".

Some friendships go beyond time, beyond life- they live forever in letters, in promises. and in the quiet corners of the heard.

But inside his pocket of his uniform, even in the battlefield, there remained one folder letter - yellow with time, soft at the edges... Yet never forgotten

The letter. he never got to read from the voice that never left him.

Best Friend

Written By : Nainshi Giri

STORY 46

I have many friends. All of them are good.

But mahima is my best friend. We are friends since our Childhood.

Mahima is a tall and good-looking girl. She is also very kind and helpful.

We are live in the same society . She often comes to my home and helps me with my studies. she is a brilliant student and very good hockey player

At the school she always help the weak students. Everyone in our locality admires her because her good behavior..

I really feel lucky to have her as my friend. May god give everyone a friend like Mahima.

Written By : Mohid Zackariya

Grade 6 B

STORY 49

Max wasn’t like the other kids in school. He didn’t enjoy noisy games or big crowds. Instead, he sat quietly on the wooden bench near the school garden every afternoon, sketching birds, trees, or anything that caught his eye. Most students thought Max was too quiet or even strange. But Max didn’t mind. Drawing made him happy.

One Monday, a new boy named Rio joined the school. Rio was the complete opposite of Max—cheerful, talkative, and always surrounded by people. But during lunch, as he explored the school, he noticed Max sitting alone, completely focused on his drawings.

Rio walked over and said, “Wow! Did you draw that?”

Max nodded shyly.

“That’s amazing! Will you teach me?”

Max looked surprised. No one had ever asked him that before.

The next day, Rio came with a box of coloured pencils. He sat beside Max, and from that moment, something special began. Max showed Rio how to sketch gently, and Rio added colours with excitement. Day after day, they met at the same bench, sharing drawings, stories, and snacks.

They were very different—but their hearts understood each other.

As the seasons changed, their bond grew stronger. Even when they moved to new classes and faced busy days, they always found time for their little sketching corner under the tree.

That old wooden bench had once been Max’s quiet escape. But now, it was a symbol of something greater—a friendship that started with a pencil and grew with laughter, kindness, and colour.

Because sometimes, the most beautiful friendships begin with a simple sketch.

Unexpected bond

Written By : Afsar Ali

STORY 52

I've known my best friend Ibrahim since kindergarten. We,ve shared countless memories, laughter and adventures.

Our bond grew stronger with each passing year. Ibrahim's passion for arts inspired me to try new things. He introduced me to art and I discovered a hidden foundation of our friendship.

When I faced challenges Ibrahim was there to offer support and encouragement.

I did the same for him during his tough times. We celebrate each other's success and learn from our failures.

Our friendship taught me the values of

Trust

Empathy

Loyalty

Unconditional support

Ibrahim's presence in my life makes every day brighter where our bond remains unbreakable.

I'm grateful for friends like Ibrahim who make life's journey more meaningful and enjoyable.

My Friends

Written By : Afsar Ali

STORY 53

I have some very good friends. I ride the bus with my friends.

Tony, Brian and I play with Lisa and Emma on the playground. We all eat lunch together too.

l also have friends from my school team named Hunter and Jake.

I sometimes get to see my cousins Abby and casey.

They are my best friends too. l like all my friends.

Friends to the End

Written By : Zac Vaz

School: Grade 8A (Dreamtime Learning Online School)

STORY 54

I had a weird dream last night. I was sleeping with the body of the person I had recently killed. It was fresh, poisoned by slipping a bit of lead into their food. The room was cold, like Death had moved in to continue the circle of life by disposing of me. I woke up in a cold sweat. Waffles was next to me. He didn’t have his makeup on. Normally, he would be called Alex, but after learning his murderous side, he’s always been known to me as Waffles.

He was your typical murderous clown. He had ginger hair and a smile which would compete with Pennywise’s. He had a collection of axes and knives. The police have been searching for him for the past 2 years. Bounty Hunters have tried their luck, only to become the next victim. His bounty and price value went up to 10 million Dollars in a year. Now he was sleeping right next to me.

Why should I not kill him and hand his body over to the cops? Because I was his partner. Every killing he committed, I had a role in that. I had been his friend since childhood. I joined him 2 years ago, when he had just started. It was an enjoyable hobby. We were to go out tonight again. Geƫng up, I stretched, dressed myself and wore my mask.

Picking up my gun, I exited the apartment, and went to the nearest deli. Lifting up my gun, I got our breakfast. Suddenly, I blacked out.

I woke up in a cell. Waffles was next to me. “Well, kid, seems like we’ve reached the end of the road, huh?” he said to me, a grin appearing on his face.

I smirked. “Well, they aren’t gonna let us off easy. Man, it was a good run. But what happened in the deli? How did I black out?” I said.

“Brave woman. She whacked you on the head. Her bag sure was heavy. When they took off your mask, they identified you. Soon enough, they traced it all the way to the apartment. I woke up to a gun in my face.” Waffles told me.

“Heh. One slip-up really determines your life, eh?”

The next day, we were convicted to death by the shooting squad. On the day of our shooting, I couldn’t bear it. I was hit by grief. I had to get out of there. Waiting for the guard to look away, I sneaked past him and into the courtyard. I saw the main entrance to the prison. The guards who were on the night shift were still drowsy. Taking advantage of that, I snuck past them and out of the main gate. I ran to the main city and reached my old apartment. The florist was there nearby. I went over to the shop and pinched a few roses from under his nose.

I made to the graveyard. It was the 25th grave. I remembered it clearly. It had been two years since he had been murdered, and since I avenged him. I flinched when I read his name. Alex Carlson 1989-2023. Brother and Friend. Taken from this world by human actions.

Placing the roses on his grave, I turned around to find Waffles smiling at me sadly. “Adios, my dear brother.” He said to me, tears in his eyes.

“Adios, my friend.” I said to him. He came towards me and gave me his last hug. Unlike other times, it was warm, and welcoming. I gripped him tightly, crying into his shoulders. He slowly faded away. It was time for me to accept my fate. I ran back to the prison, crying into the wind rushing by my face.

The next day, standing before the marksman, I fell, satisfied, and knowing my friend and brother would be waiting for me, in Heaven.

RendezVous

Written By : Myraa Khattar (School Representative)

Age: 13

School: Dreamtime Learning Online School

STORY 55

When the whole world was fast asleep, I was wide awake reading about magic.

They call me Milo, an Earthling from the big blue dot. I like to think I’m part elf, with soft cottony skin and a cap that would bloom if I ever stood in the rain long enough.

And though my parents grow mushrooms with soil and patience, I know the best ones grow with three dew drops and a sprinkle of sunbeam magic.

Life isn’t easy when your head’s stuck in “once upon a time” but your feet are stuck in a noisy city where buildings grow taller than trees, and nobody has time to wonder if stars have feelings.

In school, I was a nobody, and sometimes, that feeling of being alone curled up beside me like a sleepy snail.

But one night, everything changed.

I was on my balcony, seated on my beanbag, while a bunch of mosquitoes laid eggs on my head (do they lay eggs? Never mind). My eyes were glued to a new fantasy book, The Wingless Wish, that I had bought earlier this week. My nose was slumping inside it, glasses slipping bit by bit.

I saw something in the sky. It wasn’t a bird or a drone. It was a glowing tooth wrapped in a purple flower petal. I rushed to splash water on my face to see if it was just another dream.

It wasn’t.

I held the tooth and then… WHOOOOSHHHH DING SING DING. Something small and shiny crashed into the rosemary pot beside me.

Out tumbled a girl no taller than my thumb, glitter-covered sneakers, uneven ponytail, a wand that sparked every time she sneezed.

“Oh holy mother of cheese and cow. Seriously? A rooftop?!” she muttered.

“You’re a… Tooth fairy?” I asked.

She rolled her eyes. “No, I'm Queen Elsa from Arendelle. What does it look like, man?” Then she squinted. “Wait. You’re Milo? The mushroom kid?”

She came forward to grab the tooth but when she reached for the tooth, it did not glow. She looked flustered, sad behind the sarcasm.

She started visiting me often at my balcony, sometimes to “check the tooth,” sometimes to just talk. Eventually, I learned her name was Rae.

One night, while Rae was fixing her wand and I was working on my project (worth 100 marks), a huge black bird swooped towards her.

“RAE!” I yelled.

Her wings tangled. Her wand fell into the street. She started to fall. I swept aside my project, leapt, and placed a pillow under her just in time. She opened her eyes.

“Dude your project literally fell off the table.”

I smiled. “I’m an average kid. No one really notices me.”

“You think you’re just some mushroom boy. But you saved me. You believe in things that most Homo Sapiens have stopped believing in. You made me believe in me. Why did you ruin your project for me?” she said.

“Because you’re my best friend, Rae.”

Suddenly the tooth glowed. Then Rae began to glow like dawn.

“Thank you, Milo. For being that one person who didn’t need wings to fly.”

SPLASHHHHHH… Not of water, but of sparkle-light and warmth.

I shielded my eyes. When I looked again, Rae was standing. Full-sized. Human. On my balcony.

“I… I’m a HUMAN AGAIN… IT WORKED!!”

“What worked?”

“I was a girl once, but I was made a tooth fairy to learn kindness. I would only return to my original form once I truly made a friend who believed in me even when I didn’t.” She said with a smile.

“That’s what a friend does. A friend in need is a friend indeed. (Okay, yeah, that was cliché.)” I told her.

I asked her what’s next and she smiled and said,

“The fairy tale has just begun…”

The sky between Kabul and Istanbul

Written By : Aisha Khan (Age 14)

School: Dreamtime Learning Online School

STORY 56

The first meeting under one sky

This story is about two Afghans girls who live in different countries, one in Afghanistan and the other in Turkey. They even didn’t think that one day they will become friends. Their friendship becomes stronger than everything.

The story began from a day when we passed to our third semester of our English course. MS. Sosan introduced a new student named Emama. At first, I thought she was jealous, I didn’t know why. MS. Sosan asked all the learners to tell our first impression, at first teacher asked Emama: “how was your first impression from Kaynat” my hands were shaking, and I was thinking that what might she say. Then Emama’s answer was completely different from what I thought .she said “when I first saw Kaynat, I liked her she was simple and good. After the class finished, she walked very fast from the street to her house, I was worried why she was running. Then I walked home. All the night I was thinking about her, about her Turkish accent her black hijab and scarf that she was wearing it like people I saw in Turkish dramas.

The other evening when I went back to the course I saw her. In our class activity MS Sosan divided us into groups to work on a project unexpectedly she comes to my group. At first, we were both silent for a minute. She told me you can start, then I replied no first you can start because I’m not good at this topic she smiled and said OK then she read first we presented our project.

Sometimes when MS Sosan asked questions she replied before me that made me even more mad.

MS Sosan divided us into groups, that time Emama and I were in the same groups again, that time we had to make a funny dialogue and present it in class. Emama started making the dialogues, than I repeated back and that word went wrong she laughed, and I also laughed for the first time with her even MS Sosan noticed that when we present our dialogues.

And slowly we started to talk about small things like the weather. for the first time I dared to ask her “ how was the weather in turkey” she replied “same as here” the day was over, all the night I was thinking about if we can become friends or if it’simpossible.

But everything was not like that, we slowly talked about everything and shared our personal stories and secrets even though MS Sosan also noticed that.

The other day I was going to the supermarket to buy things. I saw her so sad I was carious that why she looks that sad today .I shouted her “Emama what happened why you are sad” she replied , my grandmother died, I was very sad for her and hugged her and said “its ok don’t be sad” than I went to her house and help her with the works. We ended the day like that.

After that day our friendship became stronger, and we realized that we are truly friends now. We start laughing, sharing stories even sometimes make jokes of some students in class. One day one of our friends named Asma said “ you guys are becoming closer to each other” and we started to laugh more and more.

After that we promised that we would be friends forever no matter where we are what we do. Days passed and we were happy preparing for exams and she was telling me some Turkish words. I also learned Turkish in those days.

But one day she told me “We are going back to turkey” I was surprised she was also so sad. The last day came, she came, and we all hugged her and said goodbye to Emama and that was a worse day for me . After that day everything was boring for me. I was just thinking when she would come back.

After that day we sent massages across the miles, I was asking that send me the picture of turkey and she was asking about MS Sosan and the other students. We kept our friendship stronger even though we were far away from each other. We promised that we would be friends forever. Days passed, one day it was sunny, the sky was beautiful and bright. I went to my classroom we started our grammar lesson, suddenly the door opened, and I saw her, I was shocked. Even MS Sosan and other students were also shocked I hugged her. Days passed happy and good.

Othe day she asked what lesson we learned I replied “No matter where we go... there’s always the same sky above us. And that means we’re never truly apart.”

I smiled, “Yes,” “Two hearts, one sky.”

THE TWO FRIENDS

Written By : Aisha Khan (Age 14)

STORY 57

Once upon a time , there was a boy living on an island. He was living alone without anyone . His name was John . He had a dog named fanny. His house was made of wood. One day, he and his dog were going for fishing. John saw a boy lying on the sand. He was running with his dog and saw the boy. He put him upright and laid him flat. He smelled the salty water. He opened his eyes and saw John and his dog. He woke up and said, “Who are you?”. John said , “I am John and this is my dog. The boy said, “Thank you for your help John”. John said , “Thank you”.

They both went to the house and sat. John said , “take some hot water and rest”. He said , “Your house is looking nice”. John said, “Thank you”. It was evening now. John said , “ I am going for fishing , you rest here”. The boy said, “I am also coming with you”. When they were walking to the river, John said, “By the way, what is your name?”. He said , “ My name is Tom”. They reached near the river and sat on a rock for fishing. The rock where Tom was sitting was slippery . When he was fishing, suddenly he slipped and fell into the river.

Tom got scarred and was trying to catch John’s hand , but he failed . John was drowning in the river . Tom got a stick and told him , “ Catch it! Catch it!”. John caught it , and Tom took the stick and caught John’s hand and saved him. John was shivering . Tom and John went back to the house and rested there. Tom gave him hot water to drink and a blanket . John said , “ Thank you so much”. Than they became best friends.

THE TWO FRIENDS

Written By : Anupriya Kumari

School: St.Theresa High school

STORY 59

One of the most unforgettable experiences with my best friend was when we surprised each other on our birthdays. We had been friends for years, sharing countless memories, laughter, and adventures. But we decided to make our birthdays special by planning surprise parties for each other.

I spent weeks planning the perfect surprise for my friend's birthday. I decorated her favorite cafe with balloons and streamers, gathered her closest friends, and even baked her favorite cake. When the big day arrived, I watched from afar as she walked into the cafe, beaming with joy as she saw the surprise waiting for her. Her eyes sparkled, and her smile lit up the room. It was a moment of pure happiness, and I felt grateful to be a part of it.

But what made it even more special was when she reciprocated the surprise on my birthday. She had planned an entire scavenger hunt, leading me to places that held special memories for us as friends. We visited the park where we had our first picnic, the bookstore where we spent hours browsing together, and the coffee shop where we had our first coffee date. Each stop was a reminder of our friendship's journey, and I felt touched by the thought and effort she had put into planning it.

The final surprise was a heartfelt letter and a gift that symbolized our friendship. She had written down all the reasons why she valued our friendship, the memories we had shared, and the laughter we had enjoyed together. The gift was a beautiful necklace with a charm that represented our inside joke. I was overwhelmed with emotions, feeling seen, heard, and loved.

Those surprises brought us closer together, and the memories of those days are etched in my heart forever. It's moments like these that remind me of the power of friendship and the joy of sharing life's experiences with someone who truly understands and loves you. Our friendship is a treasure trove of memories, laughter, and adventures, and I'm grateful for the bond we share.

As I look back on those surprises, I realize that it's the thought, effort, and love that goes into them that makes them truly special. It's not about the grand gestures or expensive gifts; it's about the moments we share, the laughter we enjoy, and the memories we create together.

Our friendship has taught me the value of kindness, empathy, and understanding. It's shown me that true friends are there for each other, through thick and thin, and that together, we can face any challenge life throws our way.

I'm grateful for friends like mine who make life's journey more meaningful, more enjoyable, and more memorable. And as we continue to create new memories and experiences together, I know that our friendship will only grow stronger, more resilient, and more loving.

THE TWO FRIENDS

Written By : Armish

School: Purkal youth development society Learning Academy

STORY 62

Ms. Thompson, a dedicated teacher, had a special bond with her student, Rohan. She recognized his potential and nurtured his love for learning. Rohan, who struggled in school, found solace in Ms. Thompson's guidance and encouragement.

As the years passed, their relationship evolved from teacher-student to mentorship. Ms. Thompson helped Rohan discover his strengths, and he began to excel academically. Their conversations extended beyond textbooks, covering life's challenges and aspirations.

When Rohan faced personal struggles, Ms. Thompson offered a listening ear and valuable advice. Her unwavering support boosted his confidence, and he started to believe in himself.

Rohan's success was not just academic; he grew into a compassionate and determined individual. Ms. Thompson's influence had a lasting impact, shaping his future and inspiring him to make a difference.

Their bond demonstrated that teachers can be more than just educators – they can be mentors, role models, and friends, leaving an indelible mark on their students' lives.

True Friendship Never Breaks

Written By : Parth singla

School: DTLS

STORY 63

Rahul and Aman were best friends since childhood. From the very first day of school, they were inseparable. Sharing the same lunch box, helping each other with homework, laughing over silly things — their friendship was admired by everyone.

After school, they moved to different cities for higher studies. In the beginning, they stayed in touch through calls and messages. But slowly, life got busy. The conversations became less, and the silence grew longer. Still, there was an emptiness in both of their hearts — the kind only a true friend can fill.

One day, Rahul found an old photo album. In it was a picture of a bench — the one where he and Aman used to sit every day after school. He smiled and sent Aman a message:

"Hey, that bench is still empty. When are you coming back?"

A few hours later, Aman replied:

"Let’s meet there tomorrow morning. This time, we won’t let time take our friendship away."

The next day, they met. No words — just a long, warm hug. In that moment, they both knew:

True friendship may pause… but it never ends.

The Empty Chair

Written By : Parth singla

School: DTLS

STORY 64

Ishaan and Kabir had been best friends since 5th grade. Though completely different—one loved books, the other loved football—they balanced each other perfectly. Every afternoon after school, they’d sit at the same café, at the same corner table with two chairs. That table became their place.

Time passed. College came, jobs followed. Kabir moved to another city, and the visits became rare. But Ishaan never stopped coming to the café. Every Sunday, he would sit at the same table. One chair always remained empty—for Kabir.

The café staff noticed. One day, a waiter asked Ishaan, “Sir, why do you never bring someone else?”

Ishaan smiled faintly and said,

“Because some chairs are not meant for just anyone. They’re reserved for someone irreplaceable.”

Years later, on a rainy Sunday, Kabir walked into the café—older, tired, but with the same smile. Ishaan stood up without a word. Kabir sat down in his chair, and just like that, the years melted away.

No “sorry,” no “I missed you.” Just a quiet sip of coffee and a friendship stronger than time.

Moral:

True friendship doesn’t need daily conversations or constant presence. It just needs a heart that remembers and a seat that’s always saved.

The Farewell Letter

Written By : Parth singla

School: DTLS

STORY 65

Ananya and Shruti were not just classmates, they were soul sisters. From the first bench in class to group studies before exams, they had done it all together. They had a secret notebook, where they wrote messages, jokes, and little dreams they had for the future — like “we’ll go to the same college,” “we’ll work in the same city,” and “we’ll never stop being best friends.”

But life had different plans.

On the last day of school, when everyone was busy signing yearbooks, Shruti was unusually quiet. Ananya asked her what was wrong. With teary eyes, Shruti handed her the secret notebook.

Inside, on the last page, she had written:

“Ananya, maybe we won’t go to the same college. Maybe we won’t talk every day. But promise me one thing — never tear this notebook. Whenever you miss me, read these pages. And know that no matter how far I go, a part of me will always be with you.”

Your best friend forever,

Shruti

Years later, Ananya was packing her bags for a new job. She found the notebook in an old drawer. She opened it, and tears rolled down her cheeks. She dialed a number she hadn't called in months.

“Hello?” Shruti’s voice came from the other side.

Ananya whispered, “I kept the promise. The notebook is still safe.”

They didn’t say much. They didn’t need to.

Because some friendships never grow old — they just wait to be remembered.

Moral:

True friendship is not about being together always — it’s about never forgetting the bond, no matter where life takes you.

The Gift He Never Opened

Written By : Parth singla

School: DTLS

STORY 66

Ravi and Neel were best friends since childhood. They were like two sides of the same coin—completely different, but inseparable. Ravi was quiet and thoughtful, while Neel was loud and full of energy. They supported each other in everything—studies, family problems, heartbreaks. No matter what happened, they had each other’s back.

One day, Neel had to move to another country for his dream job. On the day of departure, Ravi gave him a small wrapped gift and said, “Don’t open it now. Open it when you really need me beside you.”

Neel laughed, hugged him tightly, and left. Days became months. Life got busier. The chats became shorter. The calls stopped. They both moved on, or at least pretended to.

One night, years later, Neel came across that old gift in his drawer—still wrapped, still untouched. Feeling lonely after a tough day, he finally opened it.

Inside was a letter from Ravi:

“If you’re reading this, then you must be missing me. I don’t know where life has taken us, but remember—real friends never leave. I’m still here for you, even if we’re not talking. This isn’t just a gift. This is proof… that some friendships are forever.”

Neel sat quietly, tears in his eyes, and whispered,

“I should have never let this go.”

Moral:

Never wait too long to reconnect with real friends. Life moves fast, but true friendship is a rare gift — don’t leave it unopened.

The Unknown Caller

Written By : Parth singla

School: DTLS

STORY 67

Arjun and Dev had been best friends since childhood. They lived on the same street, studied in the same school, and even had the same dreams — to join the army and serve their country.

When they turned 18, they applied together. Arjun got selected; Dev didn’t. It hurt, but Dev never showed it. Instead, he hugged Arjun and said, “You’ll serve for both of us.”

Years passed. Arjun was posted far away, and their contact slowly faded. Dev would still send a message on his birthday, but rarely got replies.

One evening, Dev got a call from an unknown number. A rough voice said, “Is this Dev? Arjun spoke about you every day. I’m sorry… he’s no more.”

Dev’s heart sank. Tears filled his eyes.

The voice continued:

“He wanted you to have something.”

A few days later, Dev received a box. Inside was Arjun’s army badge, a photograph of both of them as kids, and a handwritten note:

“If I don’t return, don’t cry for me. Just promise me you’ll live every day with courage — for both of us.”

Dev held the badge close to his heart and whispered,

“I will. I promise.”

From that day on, Dev started volunteering for army families, helping children of soldiers, and living a life of purpose — just like Arjun would have.

Moral:

True friendship doesn’t end with distance, time, or even death. Some bonds are so deep, they guide us forever — even from far beyond.

The Three Pens

Written By : Parth singla

School: DTLS

STORY 68

Kunal, Aryan, and Sameer were three best friends since class 4. Everyone in school called them "The Three Pens" because they were always together—like blue, black, and red pens in the same pouch.

They did everything together — studied, played, fought, and made up. Their favorite place was a small bench under a tree in the school garden. That was their spot for every lunch break.

After school ended, life took them in different directions. Kunal became a teacher, Aryan went into business, and Sameer became an artist. They promised to meet every year on the same date — March 15 — at their old school bench.

After school ended, life took them in different directions. Kunal became a teacher, Aryan went into business, and Sameer became an artist. They promised to meet every year on the same date — March 15 — at their old school bench.

One year, all three finally sat on the bench again, smiled, and laughed like old times.

Kunal said, “We may be doing different things, but our ink is from the same pen.”

They all agreed, quietly enjoying the moment.

Moral:

True friends may choose different paths, but real friendship always finds its way back — simple and steady, like three pens in one pouch.

The Three Pens

Written By : Anupriya Kumari

School: St.Theresa High school

STORY 70

My friend and I shared a bond that was truly one-of-a-kind. Our friendship was built on a foundation of trust, laughter, and adventure. We had a way of making every moment count, turning even the most mundane experiences into unforgettable memories.

One of our most memorable experiences was when we decided to take a spontaneous road trip to a nearby beach town. The scenic drive was breathtaking, with winding roads and stunning views of the ocean. We spent our days soaking up the sun, playing in the waves, and laughing together until our sides hurt.

But what made our friendship truly special was the attitude we shared. We approached life with a sense of wonder and curiosity, always looking for new experiences and adventures. We were each other's biggest supporters, encouraging each other to pursue our passions and dreams.

As we sat on the beach, watching the sunset over the ocean, I realized that our friendship was a masterpiece of beautiful moments, laughter, and memories. It was a bond that would last a lifetime, a reminder of the joy and beauty of sharing life's experiences with someone who truly understands and loves you.

Our friendship was famous in its own way, not for any grand achievements or accolades, but for the way it brought out the best in each of us. We were each other's rock, supporting and uplifting each other through life's ups and downs.

In the end, our friendship taught me that life is about the moments we share with others, the laughter we enjoy, and the memories we create. It's about finding beauty in the everyday and approaching life with a sense of wonder and curiosity. And I'm grateful to have a friend like mine who shares that same attitude and passion for life.

The Three Pens

Written By : Armish

School: Purkal Youth Development Society Learning Academy

STORY 71

In the bustling streets of Tokyo, two strangers, Kenji and Leah, lived parallel lives. Kenji, a shy Japanese artist, found solace in his paintings. Leah, a free-spirited American writer, wandered the city, searching for inspiration.

One fateful evening, they collided – literally – in a crowded alleyway. Apologies were exchanged, and as they parted ways, Kenji handed Leah a sketchbook page with a beautiful drawing of the Tokyo skyline. Leah was touched by the gesture and sought Kenji out to thank him.

Their chance encounter blossomed into an unlikely friendship. Kenji introduced Leah to the world of Japanese art and culture. Leah shared her passion for literature and storytelling with Kenji. As they explored the city together, their bond grew stronger.

Despite their differences – language, culture, and personality – they found common ground. Kenji's introverted nature complemented Leah's extroverted spirit. Leah's creativity inspired Kenji's art. Together, they created something beautiful.

One day, Kenji faced a creative block, struggling to find inspiration for his next piece. Leah encouraged him to explore new techniques and themes. Kenji's art flourished, and he created a stunning series of paintings inspired by their friendship.

Leah, too, found inspiration in their relationship. She wrote a novel based on their experiences, weaving their stories together. The book became a bestseller, and Leah's writing career took off.

As their individual successes grew, so did their friendship. They became each other's support system, celebrating triumphs and navigating challenges. Kenji's art studio became a symbol of their bond, a place where creativity and trust flourished.

Years passed, and their friendship deepened. Kenji and Leah became inseparable, a bridge of trust between two cultures. They proved that friendship knows no boundaries – not language, not distance, not even differences in personality.

One evening, as they sat on a Tokyo rooftop, watching the sunset, Kenji turned to Leah and said, "You are the brushstroke that completes my canvas." Leah smiled, replying, "You are the melody that harmonizes my heart."

In that moment, they knew their friendship was a masterpiece, a work of art that would endure a lifetime. The bridge of trust they built would forever connect their hearts, a testament to the power of friendship in bridging cultures and souls.

Their story became a beacon, inspiring others to seek out meaningful connections, to find common ground, and to build bridges of trust. Kenji and Leah's friendship remained a shining example of the transformative power of human connection.

Thank you....

The Last Letter — A Story of Timeless Friendship

Written By : Divyansh Singh

School: Purkal Youth Development Society Learning Academy

STORY 72

Friendship is a bond that often starts with simple moments—a shared laugh, a helping hand, or a quiet understanding. Aarav and Rohan had one such bond that began in the dusty lanes of their childhood and bloomed into something beautiful over the years.

They lived in the same colony, went to the same school, and did almost everything together—be it playing cricket after school, helping each other with homework, or sneaking snacks during tuition breaks. They were known as the “inseparable two” in their neighborhood. Wherever Aarav went, Rohan followed, and vice versa.

Their friendship was deep, real, and comforting. They had dreams too. Aarav wanted to be an engineer, and Rohan, a writer. They often talked about their futures under the big banyan tree at the corner of the school ground, imagining what life would be like ten years later.

After finishing school, life took a new turn. Aarav got admission into a reputed engineering college in Mumbai, while Rohan went to study literature in Delhi. On their last evening together before leaving town, they promised to stay in touch no matter what. They hugged each other tightly, not knowing that time had its own plans.

In the beginning, they did stay connected. There were long phone calls at night, birthday wishes, memes, and casual chats. But as college life picked up pace, the frequency reduced. Slowly, the texts became shorter, and the calls became less frequent. Both of them got busy in their new lives, new friends, and endless responsibilities. Neither of them fought. Neither said goodbye. They just… stopped talking.

Still, every once in a while, Aarav would open their old photos and smile. He would think of calling Rohan, but something always held him back. “He must be busy,” he would tell himself. “Maybe I’ll call him next weekend.” But the weekend never came.

Then, one cold morning, Aarav received something unexpected—a letter. In a world full of digital notifications and instant messages, a handwritten letter felt strange.

The envelope had no return address, just a name: Ananya

Sharma—Rohan’s younger sister.

Curious and confused, Aarav opened the envelope. What he read next froze him.

“Dear Aarav Bhaiya,

I don’t know how to say this. Rohan passed away last week after a long illness. He didn’t tell many people—he didn’t want to worry anyone. Before going into surgery, he left this letter for you.

He talked about you a lot. He missed you. He kept your childhood photo on his desk and said you were the best friend anyone could ask for.

I thought you should have this.

– Ananya”

“Hey Aarav,

If you’re reading this, then maybe I’m not around anymore. I didn’t want to leave without telling you how much your friendship meant to me.

Even when we stopped talking, you were still there—in my memories, in my stories, in my prayers. I know we both waited for the other to call. But let me say this now—I missed you every single day.

I missed our cricket games, our silly jokes, and your terrible singing. I wish we had talked more. But even in silence, you remained my best friend.

Thank you for being there in the most important part of my life.

If there’s a next life, I hope we meet again—maybe under that same banyan tree.

Live fully, brother. Smile more. Laugh loud. For both of us.

— Rohan”

Tears rolled down Aarav’s cheeks. The world around him felt still. He realized how quickly time had passed, how many opportunities were lost just because of hesitation. All those moments when he could have called… but didn’t.

That evening, Aarav went back to the old park near his school—the place where their friendship had blossomed. He sat on their favorite bench under the banyan tree. The sky above was clear, the air silent, and the memories loud.

He took out the letter and whispered, “I’m sorry, Rohan. I should have called. I should have come to see you. But I’ll carry you in my heart, always. I’ll live the life we dreamed of, for both of us.”

From that day on, Aarav changed. He started calling his old friends. He reconnected with people he had lost touch with. He realized that time waits for no one, and some goodbyes come without warning. Rohan’s last letter became his greatest lesson—a reminder that friendship must be cherished, not forgotten.

Moral / Thought:

“Friendship isn’t about how often you talk, but how deeply you care.

Don’t let silence grow between hearts. Some people are once-in-a-lifetime blessings.

Say what you feel. Call that friend. Because sometimes, tomorrow doesn’t come.”

Friendship

Written By : Kritika Gupta

School: SUNBEAM SCHOOL BALLIA

STORY 73

Friendship is not a word, this is the feeling of millions of hearts and emotions which are connected to each other and that no one can feel.

At that time a thing was proved that friendship is the only thing which can take you to the good vibes.

This story begins with the life of a girl from class 4th. Her name is Kritika Gupta and in class 4th she is having a very cool teacher Aayush Kumar Tiwari.

He always supports her too much as she is more interested in all co-curricular activities than others. Kritika has the closest friends Navya and Gaury. As time passes their friendship becomes too deep. They fight to sit with Kritika, seeing this their class teacher said Kritika will sit alone behind you both.

They agreed to the teacher decision and they three became the topper of the class 1st Kritika 2nd Gaury 3rd Navya. They started spending more time with each other. Their chilling time, lunch, bunk, beat from teachers, falling, fasting, and every thing always happens with them at the same time.

But still class Monitor Kritika and her friends Navya and Gaury are teachers favourites but Kritika is most likely of all subjective teachers.

Their chill in the whole school is very famous because of their friendship. The main thing is that "If one has not completed her homework then the other two say that we haven't completed the homework.

Like the journey of class 4th, 2 years has passed 5th and 6th but the last day of class 6th was such a death day for Navya Gaury and teachers specially Aayush Kumar Tiwari because he is the only person who guided her through the journey of 3 years.

The last day was the most memorable moment for Kritika because she was leaving school, with her friends Navya & Gaury teachers are also weeping. On that day, tears from their eyes are not stopping from their hearts. But life doesn't have few friends with deep meaning. That was such a unforgettable day for everyone's life.

After leaving school, Kritika meets their friends after 1.5 years. On that day a science exhibition was held, Kritika was really lucky for her friends.

After meeting her friends and teachers and having a short break result was announced and her friends got first position in the whole school.

A Circle of trust

Written By : Gaurav Saini (Age 12)

School: PYDS Learning Academy

STORY 75

Once upon a time there lived a child whose name was Gaurav . One day when he was crossing a road he noticed something in his pocket. When he put his hand in his pocket he saw a 10 rupees note and went to the shop cheerfully and bought a packet of chips from there and went back to the road.

When he was eating that packet of chips one child was looking at him Gaurav noticed that the child was looking very charming and he was also looking very impoverished from his clothes . Then Gaurav offered him a packet of chips very kindly and he took that with innocence. The happiness was reflected from his face itself.

He curiously asked his name and asked why are you standing here . He replied that my name is Rohan and he told me that he was standing there because he was waiting for his mother who was working in a building and he also told his father is at home because he was suffering from a disease.

Would you be my friend? Then Rohan replied that now we will be friends and from today we will meet here everyday.

Then after going home Gaurav tells his parents about his new friend and makes a gift for Rohan. In that gift there are many things like something to eat and some toys.

Then after one day they both met again .Gaurav said ,"Will you come to my house, ? Rohan said ," Why not I will come to your house? "Then they went there and he also showed that gift which he made for him . By seeing this Rohan was very surprised and delighted with this and very thankful to him.

Then Gaurav's parents also gave him a heartwarming surprise "From now on ,we will support your education financially and stand by your side every step of the way.

Now they both study in the same school and in the same class .They both also came first in class and every time they top the class and they also became good friends also and help each other in every time and in every work.

After 8 years they completed their graduation .Both of them became great engineers and also became good friends.

The Echoes of Juniper

Written By : Sonakshi Bahuguna

STORY 78

The small town of Havenwood nestled in the valley like a forgotten dream, its streets whispering tales of generations past. For Elara and Liam, Havenwood was more than just home; it was the crucible where their friendship, forged in childhood mischief and tempered by teenage trials, became something unbreakable.

Their story wasn't one of grand adventures or dramatic rescues. It was quieter, built on shared silences, knowing glances, and the unspoken language of two souls utterly attuned. Elara, with her artistic spirit and penchant for observing the world through a kaleidoscope of colors, often found herself lost in thought, sketching the intricate patterns of leaves or the fleeting expressions on people’s faces. Liam, grounded and practical, with a hearty laugh that could chase away any shadow, was her anchor. He was the one who remembered to bring snacks on their endless explorations of the surrounding woods and who could fix anything with a piece of string and a determined frown.

Their earliest memories were intertwined. They built forts in the sprawling juniper bushes behind Elara's house, convinced they were impenetrable fortresses against imaginary dragons. They spent summers by the winding Willow Creek, skipping stones and devising elaborate stories about the fish that swam beneath the surface. When Elara’s parents argued, a frequent and unsettling occurrence, she would slip out her window and find Liam waiting by the old oak tree, a silent, comforting presence. He never pried, never offered empty platitudes. He just was.

As they grew, the innocence of childhood gave way to the complexities of adolescence. School became a maze of expectations, friendships shifted, and the future began to loom large and intimidating. Elara wrestled with her artistic aspirations, often feeling the weight of her parents' subtle disapproval of a path they deemed "impractical." Liam, meanwhile, felt the pull of his family’s struggling farm, a legacy that seemed both a duty and a burden.

One crisp autumn evening, as they sat on the old stone bridge overlooking the creek, a familiar tension hung in the air. Elara had just received a rejection letter from her dream art school, a thick envelope that felt like a physical blow. Liam had spent the day helping his father repair a broken tractor, the grim reality of their financial strain pressing down on him.

"It just feels like… what's the point?" Elara murmured, tearing a leaf into tiny pieces. "Every time I try, I just hit a wall."

Liam picked up a smooth, flat stone and skimmed it across the water. "Walls can be climbed, Elara. Or, you know, sometimes you find a door." He didn't say it with forced optimism, but with a quiet conviction that stemmed from years of watching her resilience.

"And what if there's no door? What if I'm just… not good enough?" Her voice was barely a whisper.

He turned to her, his gaze steady. "You are more than good enough. You're brilliant. And even if you don't paint another stroke, you're still Elara, and that's enough for me."

It wasn't a grand speech. There were no soaring declarations. But in those simple words, Elara felt a profound sense of acceptance, a bedrock of unwavering belief that shored up her crumbling confidence. Liam didn’t try to fix her problem; he simply held a space for her pain and reminded her of her inherent worth.

A few years later, life took them in different directions, as it often does. Elara, with renewed determination, applied to a different art program, miles away in a bustling city. Liam, after much deliberation, decided to stay in Havenwood, taking on more responsibility at the farm, his hands calloused but his spirit resolute.

Their communication became a lifeline. Late-night video calls, rambling emails filled with mundane details and profound thoughts, care packages of Havenwood’s homemade jams and city-crafted artisanal coffees. Elara would describe the dizzying pace of city life, the vibrant art scene, and the occasional loneliness that gnawed at her amidst the crowds. Liam would recount the rhythm of the seasons on the farm, the struggle against the elements, and the quiet satisfaction of a good harvest.

There were moments of doubt, of course. Elara, overwhelmed by the competitive art world, once called Liam in tears, ready to give it all up. "It's too much, Liam. Everyone here is so talented, and I just feel… small." Liam, covered in mud from a day in the fields, listened patiently. "Remember those juniper forts, Elara? We thought they were small too, but they protected us from everything. Your art, your spirit… it's like those forts. Small to some, maybe, but strong. You build it, brick by brick, even when it feels like a pebble." He reminded her of the quiet tenacity she possessed, a trait he knew better than anyone. He didn’t tell her to quit or to stay; he simply reminded her of who she was at her core.

And then, a crisis struck Havenwood. A devastating flood, unprecedented in its scope, ravaged the valley. Liam’s farm, already teetering on the brink, was hit hard. News reached Elara in the city, a cold dread seizing her heart. Without a second thought, she packed a bag, her art supplies left behind. She just needed to be there.

When she arrived, Havenwood was a landscape of devastation. Mud-caked houses, uprooted trees, and the despair etched on the faces of its residents. She found Liam, exhausted, his eyes red-rimmed, trying to salvage what he could from the ruined barn. He didn’t express surprise or gratitude at her arrival; just a weary nod, as if her presence was simply an expected, essential element in the chaos.

Elara didn’t have the physical strength to lift heavy debris, but she had other gifts. She organized volunteers, her clear voice cutting through the despondency, directing efforts with an unexpected practicality. She used her artistic eye to assess structural damage, to find ways to secure makeshift shelters. She drew quick, comforting sketches for the distraught children, bringing moments of fleeting joy. And late at night, when the exhaustion was a physical ache, she and Liam would sit together, not talking much, just being. Her presence was a silent acknowledgment of the shared burden, a reminder that he wasn't alone.

One evening, as the stars slowly re-emerged over the healing valley, Liam looked at her, truly looked at her, for the first time since the flood. "You came," he said, his voice rough with emotion. Elara leaned her head against his shoulder. "Of course, I came. Where else would I be?"

Their friendship wasn’t built on grand gestures or dramatic pronouncements. It was built on the quiet certainty of shared history, the understanding that transcended words, and the unwavering belief in each other's inherent strength. It was the echo of laughter in juniper bushes, the comforting silence on a stone bridge, and the steadfast presence in times of crisis. It wasn't a friendship that demanded constant attention or validation; it simply was, a deep, enduring root system connecting two lives, even when miles separated them. It was, in its simplest, most profound form, the unwavering knowledge that no matter what storms raged, the other would always be there, an enduring echo of juniper in the heart.

This is my story I have named it as

"The echoes ofJuniper"

it is about the story of Elara and Liam, whose unbreakable friendship is forged in the quiet, small town of Havenwood. Their bond is built on shared childhood experiences, silent understanding, and unwavering support, rather than grand adventures. Elara, an artistic spirit, finds her anchor in the practical and grounded Liam. As they navigate the challenges of adolescence, including Elara's artistic rejections and Liam's family farm struggles, they consistently find solace and strength in each other's presence.

Even when life takes them in different directions—Elara to art school in a bustling city and Liam staying in Havenwood—their communication remains a vital lifeline. Their friendship is truly tested when a devastating flood hits Havenwood, threatening Liam's farm. Elara immediately returns, not with physical strength but with her organizational skills, artistic eye, and comforting presence, proving that their bond is a deep, enduring root system connecting their lives, a quiet certainty that they will always be there for each other.

Whispers Across Time

Written By : Manvi Dhiman

STORY 80

Sophie's fingers danced across the spines of old books in her school library, searching for the perfect resource for her history project. Amid the dusty tomes, a worn leather-bound diary caught her eye. As she opened it, a faint trace of forgotten perfume drifted out, carrying echoes of the past.

The first entry was dated May 1950, signed by someone named Evelyn-a girl from a world vastly different from Sophie's own.

Intrigued, Sophie devoured Evelyn's words, transported to an era of sock hops, war memories, and vintage charm. She felt an inexplicable connection to Evelyn's tales of first loves, family struggles, and artistic dreams. Without thinking, Sophie scribbled a note in the margin, sharing her own thoughts and experiences.

To her astonishment, when she returned to the diary the next day, Evelyn had written back-her handwriting flowing effortlessly across the page.

Day by day, week by week, a beautiful correspondence bloomed between the two. They exchanged stories, dreams, and fears, forging a bond that transcended time. Sophie was mesmerized by Evelyn's descriptions of post-war life, while Evelyn was fascinated by Sophie's world of smartphones, social media, and freedom of choice.

When Sophie struggled with a daunting math test, she poured out her frustrations into the diary. Evelyn replied with warmth and wisdom, sharing her own difficulties with numbers. Encouraged by Evelyn's support, Sophie studied with renewed confidence-and aced the exam.

Whispers Across Time

Meanwhile, Evelyn was grappling with societal expectations. Her parents wanted her to follow tradition, but her heart longed for art. Inspired by Sophie's stories of modern women breaking barriers, Evelyn found the courage to apply to art school. With Sophie's encouragement, she pushed past her fears-and earned a coveted spot.

As their friendship deepened, Sophie and Evelyn explored the mysteries of life, love, and identity. They discussed music, literature, and personal choices, discovering that despite the years between them, their hopes and struggles were remarkably similar.

When Sophie faced a crossroads about her future, Evelyn's advice guided her with clarity and kindness. And when Evelyn faced setbacks in her artistic journey, Sophie's words gave her the strength to persevere.

The diary, once a relic of the past, had become a magical portal-linking two kindred spirits across time. Sophie and Evelyn's friendship was a living testament to the power of empathy, courage, and connection.

As Sophie gently closed the diary one evening, she smiled, her heart full. She knew that Evelyn, though from a different time, would remain with her always-through every challenge, every joy, and every word shared between the lines.

Drifting along the way

Written By : Kaashvi G Kulkarni

Class VI, Section D

School: DON BOSCO SCHOOL NERUL

STORY 81

Following the established beliefs underscores the existence of relaƟonships in this world. Although very equivocal about being broadminded, the society and a variety of other variable’s determine the unpredictable strength of friendship between individuals. Friendship-the best relationship. The apparently delicate strings holding the ship together are probably unmatched by its strength by anything else in this world. Human emotions have been studied for a long time. They determine the structure and strength of friendship among people.

It also exists between communities, man and animal (Shivaji and his elephant, Maharana Pratap and his horse chetak. Every such binding calls for a celebration as it cuts across economic status (Krishna and Sudhama), colour and creed, region, religion and language.

It was in the middle of the calendar year that my school located in the central India, decided to take the children to another of its branch in northern side of the country. It was an experiment to integrate students of the same class from two different regions. It caused a lot of excitement and some anxiety as the experiment was unique and would lead to developments probably not anticipated.

The excitement was so overwhelming that the feeling of being caught in a web of ecstasy and euphoria could not be escaped. I made new friends and soon started playing with them. Before I could realize I had lost touch with my friends in my parent branch of the school.

There was a school fest and I mingled with my new class mates and lost track of the time. I started thinking whether friendship was an obligation and that I had to show some courtesy to my earlier friends. I was so consumed by the energy of the new friendships, the earlier ones seemed to be long forgotten history.

As I drifted with my new friends, I did not realise that I would return to my parent school sooner or later. My new friends seemed to manifest over my daily routine so much so that it started being ominous and would leave an impact on me for years to come.

Then came a day during my outing to a water place about 100 Kms from my school. Elaborate preparations were made and there was a Bus which took us to this place. Me and my new friends had made plans of swimming in the waters. Those were days when I was still developing my skills to swim in the water. On coming to the water front, My new friend pushed me into the waters. As I struggled to hold myself above the water with my limited skills, all the memories of my earlier school seemed to come back all at once and made me think of a delusive new world. Suddenly the water depths seemed more manageable as I was caught in a dream. I had made enough attempts to come to the surface as my swimming knowledge increased at the cost of drowning. My attempts had caught the attention of the river guard who promptly dispatched a team of 2 people to rescue me from my dreams under water.

As I was rescued and allowed to rest for a while, I reminisced about the fire incident That had happened when I was in my parent institution. We were playing in the garden diagonally opposite to the main entrance of the school. It was summer season and we noticed some stones lying around. We rubbed them together to make the fire. Incidentally, the fire erupted as there were some flammable materials around. Luckily it caught the attention of the gardener who doused the fire before it would reach unmanageable proportions. We were around 6 friends playing and none of them blamed each other.

As I woke up, the coordinator came up to me and the other friends who had gathered around me. My friends started blaming me and that I took to water before anybody could stop me. I knew that I would not blame anybody from my previous experience where the friend’s showed solidarity.

It was an awakening call to me and I realised I had drifted along the new waves of friendship and conveniently forgotten my real friends.

I sighed in relief that the academic year was coming to an end and that I would soon be re united with my old friends.

Time presents opportunities so that we can learn who are our genuine friends and that we should not simply drift in directions that present themselves.

Best friend to strangers to forever

Written By : Swati (age 13 )

Class 8

STORY 82

Ranu and I became friends in first grade. We were together all the time, like best friends. We shared secrets and played. This lasted until seventh grade.

But in seventh grade, during exams, we started fighting. Some girls always talked to Ranu when I was there, and this made us mad. Our friendship slowly broke. By eighth grade, Ranu and I, who had once been inseparable, now moved through the school hallways like strangers.

Our classmates were sad. They wanted us to be best friends again. So, they made a plan called "Strangers to Best Friend." Our English teacher helped them. They hoped we would talk again by the next test.

But I (Swati) was very stubborn. So, the plan didn't work right away.

Still, after some time, Ranu and I started talking a little. It was just small talks, but it was a start. Then, our friend Aarushi wrote a story about us. She wrote about our friendship, how it broke, and how everyone wanted us to fix it.

Our English teacher read Aarushi's story. She understood everything.

The next day, the teacher asked Aarushi to read her story to the class. As Aarushi read, Ranu and I listened. When she finished, Ranu cried a little. "I just missed her," Ranu said softly.

I (Swati) felt sad too. I saw how silly our fight was. "Me too, Ranu," I said. "I'm sorry."

Then, we hugged. It was a quiet hug, but it meant we were friends again. Everyone in the class was happy!

From that day on, Ranu and I were back to being best friends. Our friendship had a hard time, but it became even stronger. We learned that real friends can get through anything, especially with help from others.

This is a real story based on a real incident.

TRUE FRIENDSHIP NEVER ENDS

Written By : Manvi Kumari (age 14 )

School : PYDS Learning Academy

STORY 83

Once upon a time, in a small town of Innisfree(Ireland),there lived a girl named Charlie. Her parents were not in a condition to send her to school. She used to go to a nearby primary day care centre. She was neglected by the tutor there as her parents were not able to pay the fee on time.

But one day, a marvellous thing happened that was actually once in a blue moon. A group of teachers from a reputed school came a long way from India to her day care. She took a test and was qualified to be admitted as a student of that school. She went away from her family from where her real story began.

She was homesick and took time to settle. She was neglected there as she was poor. Charlie was kind and helpful. One of her hostel mates who once hated her, now wanted to become her friend. The hostel mate, Spark, was keen to talk to her. She wanted to become her friend but she didn't tell her as she thought that Charlie was an introvert girl.

After a few months, the boarders went for a picnic where everyone had fun except for Charlie. Spark approached Charlie to talk to her. Charlie hesitated at first but became comfortable after a while. Everyone teased Spark as she stood with Charlie. Spark always encouraged Charlie to speak but she did not. Days passed and their bond became stronger and stronger.

A girl from their class named Shascha, hated both of them being friends and tried to ruin their friendship. She planned to write a letter on behalf of Charlie to Spark and on behalf of Spark to Charlie, where she would write ill about the other. She did as planned and kept the letters in their bags. When both of them saw the letter, they became sad but did not believe that it was true. They stopped talking and started ignoring each other. One day, a boy fell in front of them and got badly injured. Both of them saw the boy and rescued him. They started to talk and cleared their misunderstandings. Now, they were friends again.

It was going well but a situation occurred when Charlie got depressed. She had to pay a large sum of money as she had not paid her fee for the whole year. She could neither ask her parents for the fee nor could she tell anyone. She was given two choices by the school either to pay the fees or to leave the school. After a long hour of thinking, she decided to go to the head office and tell them that she wanted to leave the school. She went to the office but was surprised to see that her fees was totally paid and the headmaster thanked her for paying the fees on time. While she was leaving the office, the boy who was rescued came to her and asked her,”Oh, Charlie, till now you were sad and now you look happy.”

Charlie told him about what had happened and the boy guessed that it was Spark who did that.

Charlie ran to Spark as fast as she could but she was shocked to see that Spark had fainted. She took her to the doctor where Spark needed blood and so Charlie donated the blood and told the doctor not to disclose her identity. Soon the girl woke up and wanted to know who saved her life. The doctor was not able to tell exactly who she was but described her physical features and Spark knew that it was Charlie who did that.

Spark had cancer. Charlie was with her all the time and looked after her. Spark looked out of the window to a tree from which leaves were falling. Seeing the tree, Spark felt disheartened. Charlie comforted her and told her(looking outside), “With every falling leaf of the tree, you are getting better and better.” Soon Spark was well again due to the motivation that Charlie gave her.

Days passed and now it was time for them to get far from each other. Charlie wrote to Spark that said, “ You are my best friend Spark and you will always be in my heart. Memories with you cannot be forgotten. I wish you to become successful and then come to the beautiful place where I live – Innisfree(Ireland).”

Spark missed her a lot and soon became the CEO of a company. If anyone would ask her about her success, she would only say a word that was ‘Charlie’. She grew older and retired giving the post of CEO to her daughter. Then, leaving all her fortune, she went to her best friend in Innisfree where both of them lived till a green old age.

Friendship Between 2 Youths

Written By : Dev

School : PYDS Learning Academy

STORY 84

Today, I am sharing about my friendship with my best friend Krishna Dhiman. When I first came to Purkul Youth Development Society, I met Krishna. He looked smart and cool. And when the first session starts I am sitting alone. Krishna came and sat with me and said, "Do you want to be my friend? I said, “First I will observe you for 1 year. Then I will think about our friendship”. He replied “Ok friend !”.

While going to the session, the teacher asked about every student. There was something similar between us.That he liked to sing the songs and I loved to sing too. He also likes to play volleyball . We both like science. When there was teacher's day we both danced together. When I need a pen to complete my homework, no one gives the pen to me but Krishna gives me his pen for the work. I like his behavior. When he doesn't have the book, I give it to him to note the questions and the hard words. He also likes my behavior and attitude.

When the sports week was happening, and our class ran a marathon ,I wore track pants but other students wore shorts, but Krishna gave me extra shorts because he wore 2 shorts. He gave me one of them to wear. And when the marathon ends I don't have the water bottle he gave me .

When the 1 year was completed ,on the event of friendship day I said to him that “you are my best friend now onwards”. Now I am in class 8 and he supports me in my educational purpose and I also help him. Now we are thinking that we will participate in a sports competition and win the prizes and together enjoy our future that is waiting for us.

Story writing on friendship

Written By : Krishna Dhiman

STORY 85

Once upon a time there are two friends elephant and a mouse they always sit together and talk with each other everyday once when one foreigner come in the forest then mouse know that and come to talk with elephant he was worried about that the foreigner who came in the forest will harm then or not and he told everything about the foreigner that he came in our forest and I am thinking that it will harm to all of us but the elephant told him that don't worry.

I am there to protect you all I am very big and the foreigner who came in the forest will not be safe if he will able with our statement then it is okay but if it is not okay with the statement so I have to beat him and ask everything that what he will do in her forest and if he will catch the animal so we will not let him go from the forest but then the mouse say that no listen that carefully.

I am your friend and I want to protect you also please listen me and don't go to him if he has the gun so what you will do he can shoot you and take you in the zoo what you will do tell me then the elephant told to him sorry we will go in the night and taken from him and in the morning when he will see for his gun then we will go to him and ask that why you are here please told us then then when they move to the night the foreigner knows everything and he also knew that the elephant and mouse will come in the night to take his gun and he has trapped one net thier in the tree for the elephant and mouse but when mouse and elephant came to his tent then the net game down from the tree and the elephant trapped in that net but the net holes are big so only the elephant is trapped there in that net and mouse is safe and come out from that net and cut all the net from his teeth and then again the elephant and mouse came in the tent of foreigner and take the gun of him by without any noise and in the morning when the foreigner is founding is gun so the elephant and mouse came to stand and told everything about him but the foreigner told him that.

I am not of the type I will not cut the days and not cut your forest please be patient and polite with me I am here to check about the animals which are living hair I am here to do check whether they are safe or not or they are not feeling comfortable hair and the large animals killing them or not so please don't eat me and give my gun back I have bring my gun to protect myself from the lion tigers in leopards because they can harm me then elephant and mouse came back together and come to the nearby and big waterfall elephant told to the mouse that see this view is very beautiful and mouse told to the elephant that I also want to say this to you but you have told to me first then when after this type of things happen mouse always tell everything to the elephant and they always take the suggestions together and give advice to each other and congratulate each other in their happiness and also be safe with each other so

Moral of the story is things are never quite and scarry when you got a best friend.

Thank you

The Banyan Tree's Embrace

Written By : The Banyan Tree's Embrace

STORY 86

Riya and Sameer's friendship was as old as the banyan tree that stood sentinel over their small village. From scraped knees on dusty paths to whispered dreams under starry skies, their lives were interwoven like the intricate roots of that ancient tree. Riya, with her infectious laughter and boundless energy, was the whirlwind, while Sameer, thoughtful and steady, was the anchor.

Their childhood was a tapestry of shared adventures. They built kingdoms in the fields, navigated imaginary oceans in their rickety treehouse, and conquered dragons (usually just particularly grumpy cows). When Riya fell and sprained her ankle trying to climb the highest mango tree, Sameer, barely strong enough, carried her all the way home, his small face etched with worry. When Sameer struggled with his arithmetic, Riya would sit patiently, breaking down complex problems into simple stories until the numbers finally clicked into place for him.

As they grew older, their paths began to diverge, subtly at first. Riya, brilliant and ambitious, set her sights on a scholarship to a prestigious university in the city, dreaming of a life beyond the village borders. Sameer, deeply rooted in their community, found his calling in farming, dedicating himself to innovative practices that would benefit their village.

The news of Riya's acceptance was met with both jubilation and a quiet sadness. Their friends celebrated, but Riya and Sameer shared a look that held unspoken fears. "You'll visit, won't you?" Riya had asked, her voice a little too bright. "Every chance I get," Sameer had promised, his hand briefly covering hers.

Life in the city was a dizzying rush for Riya. New friends, new experiences, new challenges. She excelled in her studies, her mind buzzing with possibilities. Yet, in the quiet moments, she often found herself thinking of the village, of the familiar scent of the earth after rain, and of Sameer. His infrequent calls were a lifeline, a voice that grounded her amidst the urban chaos.

Sameer, meanwhile, worked tirelessly on his farm, implementing sustainable techniques that brought prosperity to their village. He missed Riya fiercely, the void her absence created a constant hum in his life. He would often sit by the banyan tree, remembering their childhood escapades, a wistful smile on his face.

One sweltering summer, a severe drought struck the region. The village, dependent on its crops, faced ruin. Riya, hearing the news, felt a pang of helplessness from afar. She called Sameer, her voice thick with concern. "What can I do?" she asked, tears welling up.

Sameer, despite the grim situation, spoke with his usual quiet strength. "We're trying everything, Riya. We just need a little more… hope."

It was then that Riya remembered a project she had worked on – a low-cost, efficient water conservation system. She immediately sprung into action, rallying her university professors and a team of students. They worked day and night, sketching designs, calculating costs, and reaching out for support.

A week later, Riya arrived in the village, not alone, but with a truckload of equipment and a team of eager volunteers. Sameer, seeing her, rushed forward, a broad smile illuminating his face for the first time in weeks. Their reunion was a silent testament to their unbreakable bond.

Together, they led the village, implementing the water conservation system. Riya's knowledge and Sameer's practical understanding of the land proved to be an unstoppable combination. Slowly, steadily, the parched fields began to revive. Hope, like the first green shoots, returned to the village.

As the sun set on a particularly successful day, Riya and Sameer sat under the banyan tree, exhausted but content. "You saved us, Riya," Sameer said, his voice full of gratitude.

Riya leaned her head on his shoulder, a comfortable silence settling between them. "We saved us, Sameer," she corrected gently. Their paths might have diverged, but their roots remained intertwined, nourished by a friendship that was as strong and enduring as the ancient tree that watched over them.

Bella’s Big Comeback

Written By : Kevin (age 11)

School: Dreamtime Learning School

STORY 87

Online school was a whole new world for me. My room became my classroom, my desk my school desk, and my laptop my window to friends and teachers far away. At first, it felt strange—no noisy hallways or busy classrooms, just silence except for the click of keys and the occasional “Can you hear me?”

My squad was split between two groups. Some of my closest friends were in Grade 6 like me — Miro, Zara, Neev, Hridaan, Shivansh, and Madgam. We were all in the morning batch together, sharing early classes and laughs. But most of them, especially Miro and Hridaan, didn’t really know Bella.

In Grade 5, my friend Parikatha was in the afternoon batch. So was Paris, who still remembered me from those days. It was nice knowing that even from different batches, we stayed connected.

We joked, answered questions, and shared the ups and downs of learning from home. But sometimes, classes still felt a bit quiet.

Then came Bella.

Bella is my one-year-old cousin sister. Before her family moved out of our house temporarily, she used to be with me during school hours every day. She wasn’t just a baby—she was a superstar.

I still remember the first time I picked her up and showed her to the webcam. Her bright eyes locked on the glowing screen. Her tiny fingers reached out, her soft giggles echoed in my mic, and just like that, the mood in class changed.

“Look, everyone! Here’s Bella!” I’d say.

The chat exploded with hearts, emojis, and laughs. Even the teacher smiled. Bella became our unofficial mascot. Zara once called her "the Zoom Queen," and Neev started calling her “Tiny Star.”

Though Miro and Hridaan hadn’t seen her live, they heard all the stories. The day she drooled on my keyboard. The time she accidentally clicked "raise hand." She even made a math question vanish once!

Bella’s moments became legendary—even for those who hadn’t met her.

Then came February 26th. Bella’s family had to leave town. That morning, I held her up one last time. She waved like she knew this was goodbye for a while.

After she left, the screen felt colder. No more baby babbles. No more chubby cheeks appearing beside me. I told my squad—Zara, Neev, Shivansh, and Madgam—that I missed her. Even Parikatha from the afternoon batch sent me messages saying, “I hope Bella comes back soon.”

Miro and Hridaan had never really seen Bella live, but they knew her legend. They’d say things like, “Is this the same baby who muted your mic mid-sentence?”

Yes. That was Bellowing Bello.

The squad helped me hold on to Bella’s memory. Zara suggested we make a Bella slideshow. Neev added music. Shivansh cracked jokes like, “She probably took over the Wi-Fi wherever she is now.”

We even made a Kahoot quiz: “What color was Bella’s onesie on her last day?” (Answer: Blue with stars.)

Paris and Parikatha from the afternoon batch kept checking in. “Any news?” they’d ask.

Though Miro and Hridaan hadn’t seen Bella on-screen, they knew her nickname—Bellowing Bello. It became part of our squad dictionary.

Then, one day in July, just as class ended, my mom peeked in and said, “Kevin, guess who’s back?”

I turned the camera toward the door. There she was—Bella. Same starry onesie. Same bellowing squeal.

I held her up to the webcam and BOOM!

The chat EXPLODED:

“BELLA!!!”

“SHE’S BACK!”

“OMG SQUADCAST HYPE!!!”

I messaged Parikatha: “SHE’S BACK!”

She replied: “Finally! Best news!”

Zara changed her background to balloons. Neev sent confetti GIFs. Even the teacher said, “Looks like we’ve got a guest star again!”

Miro typed, “Wait... this is the Bellu everyone talks about? She’s REAL?!”

Hridaan added, “Okay yeah... now I get the hype.”

Zara added: “SHES SO SO CUTE!!!!!!!!!!

Bella may be small, but she taught us big things.

She showed us that happiness can come from a giggle or a silly face. She reminded us that even in online school, with all its silence and screens, we could feel joy.

Even if most of my Grade 6 squad hadn’t met her before, they felt her return like a celebration. That’s what Bella does—she brings people together.

To me, she’s more than a cousin. She’s the heart of my school year. The tiny spark in my online world.

And sometimes... the loudest joy comes from the tiniest bellow.

This story is very close to my heart and is based on a real and special friendship moment from online school. Thank you for this opportunity to share it.

Beyond Ego, Beyond Words

Written By : Garima Saini (Age: 13)

School: PYDS Learning Academy

STORY 88

Once upon a time, there lived a little girl named Nia.

She was diligent, humble, and kind-hearted, admired by many and surrounded by friends. Yet deep inside, she longed for a true friend—a kindred spirit with whom she could share her heart.

As she moved to grade 6, a fresh wave of students joined her class. Nia saw this as a new beginning and a chance to find the companion she had always hoped for. Among the newcomers, her attention was drawn to a sweet, cheerful girl named Aaya, whose charming features and gentle manner reminded Nia of a rabbit.

Curious and warm, Nia reached out to Aaya. As they spent time together, Nia felt an unexplainable connection—as if an invisible thread had tied their souls. Aaya was tall and radiant, while Nia was petite and quiet, but they shared the same core values: kindness, humility, and a relentless drive to grow.

Surprisingly, their similarities didn’t stop there. They both loved studying, painting, and singing. Even their mothers shared the same name, and their family situations mirrored each other. These delightful coincidences blossomed into a deep friendship in just a matter of days.

However, every story has its storm—and theirs came sooner than expected.

One day, a misunderstanding led to a quarrel. Nia, overwhelmed with emotion, shouted at Aaya in frustration. Though she regretted her words, her pride wouldn’t let her apologize. Her ego became a wall too high to climb, and the bridge between them crumbled. The qualities that once connected them now sparked silent rivalry. They began comparing themselves, competing where they once collaborated.

Days turned to weeks, weeks into months, and soon a whole year had passed. Despite the silence, both secretly admired the other’s achievements. Even the unspoken rivalry had pushed them to excel. Yet, neither could find the courage to make the first move.

Then came a school trip. Only three students were selected—and among them were Nia and Aaya. Fate had offered them one more chance.

This time, Nia listened to her heart instead of her pride. She walked up to Aaya, gently held her hand, and expressed sincere remorse. Though Aaya remained silent at first, her eyes gave away her happiness. After a pause and a few heartfelt words, she forgave Nia.

Their friendship was rekindled on August 4th—International Friendship Day—a date that now held special meaning for them.

From that day forward, they understood the true strength of their bond. Together, they were not just friends—they were a powerful force, inspiring each other to rise, to forgive, and to love without ego.

The Bridge Between Trees

Written By : Siya Agrawal

STORY 89

In a quiet village nestled between two forested hills, there lived two boys—Arjun and Kabir. Though their homes were separated by a dense forest and a winding river, their bond was stronger than any distance. They had met when they were six, during a village festival, and quickly became inseparable.

Every weekend, they would meet under an old banyan tree near the river that divided their sides of the forest. They built a small wooden platform between two trees—one on either bank—and called it “The Bridge.” It wasn’t a real bridge, of course, but it was their secret place where stories were shared, secrets whispered, and laughter echoed.

As the years passed, life began to shift. Kabir’s family faced hardships and planned to move to the city for work. When Kabir told Arjun, the news hit like a cold monsoon wind.

“But what about the bridge?” Arjun asked.

Kabir smiled sadly. “Maybe it will still be here when I come back.”

They carved their names into the wooden plank of the bridge and made a pact: no matter how far apart they were, they would return to that spot once a year—on the first Sunday of July.

The first year, Kabir returned. He had grown taller, his clothes more polished, but his smile was the same. Arjun brought roasted peanuts and old comics. They laughed until the sun dipped behind the hills.

The next year, Kabir didn’t come. Arjun waited from morning till dusk. Maybe the rain delayed him, he thought. Maybe next year.

But the next year passed too, and the year after that.

Life went on. Arjun became a teacher in the same village school he once studied in. He still visited the bridge every July, fixing the planks, clearing the weeds, and sitting with the memory of laughter.

Ten years passed. One July morning, just before dawn, Arjun walked to the bridge with his usual bag of snacks. But something was different. The path was swept clean. There were fresh footprints in the mud. And on the wooden plank, beside their old carving, were new words:

“Sorry I took so long. –Kabir”

Then, from the trees, a familiar voice: “I brought the roasted peanuts this time.”

Kabir stepped out, now a man in his twenties, with a tired face and eyes full of apology.

“I kept meaning to come back. Life just... moved fast. I forgot how much this place meant to me.”

Arjun didn’t say anything at first. Then he sat down, patted the wooden plank beside him, and said, “You remembered in the end. That’s what matters.”

They sat there, like no time had passed at all.

From that day forward, they met every year again at the bridge between trees. Because true friendship isn’t about how often you meet, but whether you still feel at home when you do.

The blind man and his Dog

Written By : Priyanshi

STORY 90

In a bustling town, there lived a blind man named Ravi. Despite her disability, Ravi was known for his kind heart and sharp mind. However, navigating the busy streets of the town was a challenge for him. To help him with this, Ravi had a loyal dog named Bruno.

Bruno wasn’t any dog -he was Ravi’s guide, his companion, and his protector.

Everyday, Bruno led Ravi through the crowded streets, avoiding obstacles, and making sure Ravi reached his destination safely. The towns people often marvelled at the bond between the two, as Bruno seemed to understand Ravi’s every need without a word being spoken.

One day, while walking to the market, Bruno suddenly stopped and refused to move Ravi, puzzled, gently tugged on the leash, but Bruno stood firm. Moments later, a speeding car whizzled by, narrowly missing them. Ravi realized that Bruno had saved his life by sensing the danger before he could hear or feel it. Filled with gratitude, Ravi patted Bruno’s head and whispered “Thank you, my friend.”

As they continued their walk, Ravi thought about how much he depend on Bruno, not just for guidance, but for friendship. Bruno wasn’t just a dog; he was a true friend who always put Ravi’s safety and well-being first.

One day, however, Ravi and Bruno were caught in a storm. Heavy rains flooded the streets, and Ravi could barely keep his balance as they tried to find shelter. In the chaos, Ravi slipped into a deep puddle and struggled to get up. Bruno immediately sprang into action, barking loudly to attract help. Eventually, a passerby heard Bruno’s frantic barks and rushed over to assist Ravi.

Grateful for the stranger’s help Ravi realized that Bruno had once again saved him - this time not just physical danger but from the fear and helplessness that come with his condition. Ravi hugged Bruno tightly and realized that their friendship went beyond the practical. Bruno was his life partner, offering championship, protection, and unconditional love.

From that day on, Ravi told everyone he met, “ A true friend isn’t just someone who stands by you in good times but someone who pulls you through when you’re at your lowest. “And to him, Bruno was the truest friend he could ever ask.

But the next year passed too, and the year after that.

Life went on. Arjun became a teacher in the same village school he once studied in. He still visited the bridge every July, fixing the planks, clearing the weeds, and sitting with the memory of laughter.

Ten years passed. One July morning, just before dawn, Arjun walked to the bridge with his usual bag of snacks. But something was different. The path was swept clean. There were fresh footprints in the mud. And on the wooden plank, beside their old carving, were new words:

“Sorry I took so long. –Kabir”

Then, from the trees, a familiar voice: “I brought the roasted peanuts this time.”

Kabir stepped out, now a man in his twenties, with a tired face and eyes full of apology.

“I kept meaning to come back. Life just... moved fast. I forgot how much this place meant to me.”

Arjun didn’t say anything at first. Then he sat down, patted the wooden plank beside him, and said, “You remembered in the end. That’s what matters.”

They sat there, like no time had passed at all.

From that day forward, they met every year again at the bridge between trees. Because true friendship isn’t about how often you meet, but whether you still feel at home when you do.

Friendship

Written By : Myiesha Gupta (5A)

STORY 91

Once upon a time, in England, there lived a small girl, Anya. She was smart, intelligent, and very participative. She would always have an answer to the teacher’s questions. All she lacked was a bit of confidence.

But, there was one problem. All students at school hated her light brown skin. They used to make fun of her everyday. For instance, if the teacher asked a question, when she was answering, they would mimic(or mock) her.

One day, there was a new student. She too, just like Anya, had light brown skin. But, even she had hobbies (art, craft, singing and reading).

Now, the bullies had made both Anya and Scarlette ( the new girl ) their targets.

Anya and Scarlette hardly knew each other. Though they met through lectures, they never spoke. Scarlette, however, used to see Anya participating in all the competitions and thought of meeting her.

Nobody knew that what was going to happen next would change their lives forever.

As Scarlette had thought, she went to meet Anya.

Anya was surprised, as she had hardly seen Scarlette speak. Still though, she agreed, and they became friends, good ones.

As this happened, both of them started sharing their skills with each other, and soon, they both got closer, their parents also became nice friends.

They became best friends, supporting each other and standing up to the bullies.

As the next few years passed by, slowly and gradually the bullies started becoming their friends, not because of their traits, but because of their friendship.

Now, the whole school supported them. But Anya and Scarlette were like two peas in a pod. No one could stop them. They were as thick as thieves.

But then, something shocking happened! Scarlette had an accident with a car and was admitted to the hospital. As soon as this news reached Anya, who was at home, waiting for Scarlette to come home. She was horrified.

Anya just ran to the hospital with all her might. She had never run so fast. Finally, in Scarlette’s room, when Anya saw her bandages she almost fainted. These were the same bandages that she hated, as once when she was 2. They had nearly killed her. But, as for Scarlette, she could hardly hear anyone. But, then, a miracle happened!

(Anya and Scarlette loved songs, so Anya was just singing to pass time, but that was a song of a really very strong memory they had together (it was Scarlette’s favourite song, and they both danced at it a lot.)

As Anya sang, a sound went into Scarlette’s brain. And then, her brain recognised it, it was her best song! Suddenly Scarlette started hearing everything properly, and as soon the doctors saw that it was the song that helped, they told Anya to sing it again and again. As she sang it, over a few days, Scarlette got better and after a few more days, she could speak.

It took at least two months for Scarlette to recover, but it was a speedy recovery. She was soon discharged from the hospital and was free to go home.

But, as they were coming home from the hospital, Scarlette and Anya both realised something. True friendship isn’t about being there when it’s convenient, it’s about being there when it’s not. Scarlette felt really happy that she had not only found a really good friend, but also a strong supporter of her.

So friends, the moral of the story is that a good friend doesn’t have to be just a friend who saves your life, but also someone who can make you laugh even at your saddest moments.

Thank you.

The Sun and the Cloud

(A story about listening and friendship)

Written By : Prihaan R

STORY 92

High up in the sky, there lived two special friends — the Sun and the Cloud.

The Sun was bright, cheerful, and full of energy. He loved making the world shine and bringing happiness to everyone below. The Cloud was soft, gentle, and thoughtful. She enjoyed floating peacefully and giving cool shade when it was too hot.

They worked together every day — making beautiful mornings, cool afternoons, and colorful sunsets. Everyone on Earth was happy because the Sun and the Cloud made the sky just right.

But one morning, they had a disagreement.

The Sun said, “Let’s make today sunny! Children will be excited to play outside, and people can enjoy the day.”

But Cloud said, “I don’t think that’s a good idea. The plants are thirsty, and the farmers need rain. It should be a rainy day.”

The Sun didn’t like the idea of people being stuck indoors. The Cloud didn’t want the flowers and crops to suffer without water. Both of them cared — just in different ways.

For a moment, they stayed quiet.

Then, instead of arguing, they started to listen.

The Sun said, “What if we share the day? I’ll shine in the morning so children can play. And in the afternoon, you can bring light rain for the plants and trees.”

The Cloud smiled. “That sounds fair. Let’s do it!”

So that day, the morning was bright and sunny. Kids laughed and played in the parks. In the afternoon, gentle rain fell, and the earth drank happily. Flowers stood tall, and the farmers were thankful.

From that day on, the Sun and the Cloud remembered something important: They didn’t have to agree on everything. But by listening and respecting each other, they could always find a way to work together.

Moral:

Good friends may not always agree — but they always listen, understand, and respect each other. That’s what makes a friendship strong.

The warrior and the poet

Written By : Aradhya Sawant

STORY 93

In the heart of the Maratha Empire, amidst difficult times of betrayal and bloodshed, a unique bond blossomed between a warrior king and a poet. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the brave son of Shivaji Maharaj, and Kavi Kalash, a learned poet and statesman, shared a friendship that echoed loyalty, intellect, and devotion.

Kavi Kalash was no ordinary courtier. Gifted with sharp wit and a mastery over languages, he was drawn towards the ideals of Swarajya. When he entered the court of Sambhaji Maharaj, he quickly became more than a royal poet. He became the king’s confidant, advisor, and trusted friend.

Sambhaji Maharaj was known for his unmatched courage. In Kavi Kalash, he found a companion who could match his intellect and challenge his thoughts. The two often spent hours in debate—one speaking of war tactics, the other of philosophies and politics.

Their friendship was built on a rare equality, uncommon between a king and his subject. Together, they fought battles—not just on the field, but also in matters of the state. But their bond was tested in the most brutal way when the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb captured them both.

Bound in chains, the two stood before Aurangzeb’s court. Aurangzeb offered Sambhaji his life if he accepted his conditions. The Maratha king refused, his eyes blazing with pride. Beside him stood Kavi Kalash, who could have chosen silence or begged for mercy.

Furious, Aurangzeb ordered them to be tortured. Over weeks, they endured inhuman punishments, yet neither uttered a word of surrender. The friendship that had once thrived in the courts and battlefields now stood unbroken on the brink of death.

It is said that even in pain, Kavi Kalash composed verses in praise of Sambhaji’s bravery, calling him the "lion of the Deccan." Sambhaji, in turn, comforted his friend in captivity, refusing to let despair claim them. They shared the agony, bound not just by chains but by a bond stronger than steel.

Even in their final moments, they stood side by side—defiant, unbroken. Sambhaji Maharaj embraced death as a true Kshatriya, and Kavi Kalash followed as a friend who had lived and died by his king’s side.

Their friendship became a legend. In a world where alliances shifted with the winds, theirs remained steadfast till the end. Kavi Kalash’s loyalty symbolized the ideal of standing by one’s friend in both glory and doom. Sambhaji’s trust in him proved that a true friend is not a courtier or a flatterer, but a companion.

Centuries later, the story of their friendship still echoes in the tales of the Marathas. It stands for courage, loyalty, and the rare brotherhood between a warrior and a poet.

"The Empty Bench"

Written By : Avnita Saji (5B)

STORY 94

In the heart of a bustling city park stood an old wooden bench, shaded by a giant gulmohar tree. Every afternoon, at exactly four o'clock, two elderly men—Mr. Iyer and Mr. Fernandes—would sit there, sipping chai from clay cups, watching the world go by.

Their friendship had started over five decades ago, back when they were young teachers at the same government school. Mr. Iyer taught science with methodical precision, while Mr. Fernandes made history come alive with his dramatic storytelling. Despite their di erent personalities, they clicked from day one—debating politics, discussing books, and sometimes just sitting in silence, enjoying each other's company.

As years passed, their bond only grew stronger. They celebrated festivals together, went on long evening walks, and supported each other through life’s many storms. When Mr. Fernandes lost his wife, it was Mr. Iyer who brought him hot meals every evening without a word. And when Mr. Iyer’s son moved abroad, it was Mr. Fernandes who filled the silence in his home with laughter and warm conversation.

Now retired and well into their seventies, the park bench became their daily ritual. They had even unocially claimed it as their bench, often joking with strangers that it was "reserved by friendship."

One cloudy Tuesday, Mr. Iyer arrived at the park, carrying the usual two cups of tea. But the bench was empty. He waited, thinking his friend was just late. Minutes turned to an hour. The tea turned cold. Still, no Mr. Fernandes.

The next day, he returned again with two cups. And again, the bench remained empty.

On the third day, a young girl approached him. She looked hesitant but determined. “Are you Mr. Iyer?” she asked softly. He nodded.

“I’m Sarah. My grandfather—Mr. Fernandes—spoke of you every day. He passed away in his sleep three nights ago. But he told me, if anything ever happened to him, I must tell you... thank you for being the best friend anyone could ask for.”

Mr. Iyer looked at her, silent. He didn’t cry. He just nodded slowly, handed her the second cup of tea, and patted the bench. “Sit,” he said gently.

And so, Sarah sat. They talked about Mr. Fernandes—his terrible singing voice, his unmatched knowledge of Mughal history, and his habit of forgetting where he placed his glasses. For the first time in three days, Mr. Iyer smiled.

Days turned into weeks, and every now and then, Sarah would join him on the bench. Over time, others in the park began to notice. Children would stop and say hello, some elderly walkers would sit for a minute and share a memory. The bench, once just a place for two friends, had become something more—it had become a symbol of warmth, of stories, of companionship.

Though Mr. Fernandes was gone, his presence lingered on that bench, in the rustling leaves of the gulmohar, in the quiet chuckles of Mr. Iyer, and in every cup of tea shared under the open sky.

Moral:

Friendship is not just about the time spent together, but the space it creates in our hearts—a space that even time and loss cannot erase.

Friendship

Written By : Aarohi Sihal (5A)

STORY 95

Once upon a time there were two best friends Amit and Sumit. They were like brothets. They used to go to same school. They were very helpful, Intelligent. trek, Sumit agreed.

It was a cheerful day. Sumit and Amit met on time near the hill. Soom they started trekking. The mountain was very bumpy. Suddenly sumit felt on his palm it was a sharp thern which had been in his hand. He gently removed it was bleeding. He asked if Amit had a bandge he had. So he took it and applied it on his hand. Then they again started climbing. as they had almost reached the peak. So they had palatable food and salu-brious juice they had brought. They finally reached the peak. They clicked some breath taking picture's and at 4:30 om to climb down. While going down they heared a weired noise.

It was a bear coming from the bush Amit quickly climed the tree now. Sumit was down alone as he didn't know to climed trees. So he quickly lyed down as if he was dead the bear came he left Amit who climed the tree Slowly he took forward his steps to Sumit he was that Sumit is dead so he speared him also. From that day onwards sumit did not talk to Amit.

Moral

Alway's make friend's who help you when you need them.

Friendship Story

Written By : Aarav Deshkari

STORY 96

My name is Aarav and I live near the hills of Tikujiniwadi, which is full of rocks, trees and ponds and I love walking through them. Like many of you, I also like to read Harry Potter series and wished to have magic powers like Harry Potter. What If one get magic power for a day. Sounds exciting isn’t! This is the story of my magical experience. Are you ready!

Part 1 : Rock cave and the magic book

Last Sunday morning, I was climbing up the Tikunjiwadi hills along with me friends and we reached the place near the pond with rocks. After sitting and playing for a while, we thought of playing hide and seek. While hiding, I wanted not to get caught easily and so I went little deep towards the forest. After running for while, I found a small rock cave covered by bush which is a good place to hide.

When I was adjusting myself inside, I stumbled upon a brown book covered with dust and soil. The book was small, had leather cover & bird feathers attached to it. What was most interesting was an ancient triangular watch dial with one arm only. I wondered usually watch has 2 arms.

With curiosity, I dusted the book and tried to read what was written. I could read as “ Magic book of time”, before I could completely read it, my friends reached in search of me. Quickly, I slipped the book into my pockets and left home. I was excited and curious to know what is this magic book.

Part 2: Magic powers revealed

The next day, I was so excited to know more about this book. So, I went down to the garden and found a quiet place. Slowly, I took the book out and watched it closely under the sun. The watch dial has 3 letters written on the covers, marking each direction. It was written as R, F, B. My curiosity knew no bound. So by gaining some courage, I slowly rotated the arm and kept at position R, which was on the top side. Nothing happened. Little disappointed. Was staring at the book and turned the next page. It is written “ Drops of blessing from heaven on the way”. I wondered and looked at the bright, sunny sky. Suddenly, the only a small cloud seem to move down and rain drops started falling on me. First touch of rain drop touched my face. Only my face was getting the rain and nowhere else. So R means Rain.

After being wet on the face, happy and excited I wanted to check the other two letters means. So move the arm to F position in the cover and looked around. Nothing seem to change and so as done before opened the book to look for any clues. In the 15th page, it is written “ Colours are happiness” . I was wondering what this means and suddenly from the ground where I was standing, small plants starting growing fast and colourful flowers starting blooming, one by one, in yellow, red, orange, purple. So F meant Flowers. It looked like a rainbow surround me. The rain drizzle is still on me and I am standing in the centre of the flowers. Happy and excited further, I turned the arm into the last letter B and opened the book and searched for clue. In page 44, it is written “ Flying flowers will circle you”. This time I was curious what would happen. So the next magic occurred. Scores of butterflies, came from nowhere and starting circling me and staring sitting on the flowers. My face is fully covered with butterflies, they softly flutter around me, while the rain drizzle splashed on me. I was so happy standing inside this magical world.. More flowers , more butterflies and more rains...

Suddenly, I heard my mom waking me up.. “Aarav, get up, it is time for dinner, you have been sleeping since evening, get up and have food” and she went back to prepare food for me. I got up and wondered, was all these magic were just dream, I could not believe it. Bit disappointed, I opened the book I was holding. There was a fresh flower smiling at me. Looked at, 3 butterflies were circling my bed. Thrilled by this, I looked through the window, I saw the rain drops still falling in the place where I stood before.

Don’t tell anyone that I have this magic book. The end.

The Window Between Us

Written By : Aarav Deshkari

STORY 97

Mina lived on the third floor. Her window faced a quiet side street where the world moved slowly—morning pigeons, creaky delivery bikes, and sunlight dripping between buildings like syrup.

Across the street, in the old yellow house with the ivy-covered railings, another window opened every morning. At first, Mina barely noticed. She had her books, her sketchpad, her quiet. That was enough.

But then she began to notice the girl across the way.

Always wearing oversized jumpers, always pulling her hair into a messy bun. She sang softly to herself while watering a jungle of potted plants that nearly swallowed the window. Some mornings she danced—badly, wonderfully, like no one could see her.

Her name, as Mina would later learn, was Lily.

They noticed each other gradually. One morning, Mina sneezed, and Lily looked up in surprise and waved. Mina, startled, waved back.

The next morning, a sticky note appeared on Lily’s window:

"Bless you 🙂 I’m Lily."

Mina smiled, scribbled her own note, and taped it to her glass:

"Thanks. I’m Mina."

That was the beginning.

They became window-friends. Little notes stuck to panes of glass, silly drawings passed back and forth with tape and string, sometimes even paper airplanes when they were feeling brave.

What’s your favorite animal?

Do you believe in ghosts?

Have you ever ruined a cake and eaten it anyway?

Theirs was a friendship built on simple things. A shared love of tea. A dislike of math homework. A mutual agreement that rainy days were better than sunny ones. They never tried to be anyone but themselves.

Some days, they did homework “together”—each sitting at her own desk, a window between them, showing answers through whiteboards or waving hands in frustration. Other days, they just sat with the glass between them, reading, drawing, listening to music.

It didn’t need to be loud. It just needed to be.

One Thursday, Lily didn’t open her window.

Not in the morning. Not after lunch. Not even when the sky turned pink with evening.

Mina waited, her heart heavier than she expected.

It happened again the next day.

So Mina stuck a note to her window. Just a little one.

"Hope you’re okay. I miss your plants."

The next morning, Lily was back. Pale, a little quiet, but smiling. She held up a sign:

"Migraine. Sorry. Your note helped."

Mina didn’t say anything. She just held up a mug of tea in salute.

hat was the day they learned something important: real friends don’t always need to be in the same room. They just need to show up, even if it’s only through glass.

Eventually, they met properly—at the bakery down the street, over cocoa and shy laughter and, “Wait, are you actually tall?!”

But the window always remained their favorite place. It was where the friendship started—not loud, not flashy. Just two girls, noticing each other in a world that sometimes forgets to.

And even as they grew older, moved flats, tried new things, the memory stayed.

A window.

A wave.

A note that said, I see you.

And someone on the other side who said, Me too.

TRUE FRIENDSHIP

Written By : Advait Pradip Shinde

STORY 98

Omkar & Raju were best friends . One day , when they were coming home from school , they saw a garden . They decided to stroll in the garden . There were many beautiful flowers & there were many colourful birds on trees . They came to stroll there quite often . After a while , when they strolled the garden they left for their homes . Omkar forgot that tomorrow was their maths exam . But Raju reminded Omkar that tomorrow is maths exam by calling him . If Raju wouldn’t have reminded Omkar , he surely would had been failed!

Omkar thanked Raju for reminding him that tomorrow is math exam . Raju said “that is what friends are for to take care of each other”. Marks were announced tomorrow . Raju got 19 out of 20 whereas Omkar got 20 out of 20 . Tomorrow was their science exam . Omkar helped Raju to study for tomorrow’s science exam . Raju got good marks . He thanked Omkar . Omkar said “that is what friends are for to take care of each other. Both of them laughed.

One day , Omkar moved to Hyderabad because his father transferred there . Raju was alone . There was no one to play with him , help him to complete his homework , to clear his doubts . He was feeling alone without his friend Omkar . He wished that his friend would come back to the city of Mumbai . He remembered the olden days when they both enjoyed together . Omkar was also concerned about Raju . They wished that they would come together again .

Soon , they both went into 8th grade . Omkar made friends in Hyderabad , but Raju was alone because no one was willing to be his friend . Soon they forgot each other . One day , his mother was insisting his father that they should go for a family trip in Hyderabad . & they went there tomorrow . One day , Raju saw some boys hanging out in middle of the streets of Hyderabad . Then someone looked a little familiar to Raju . He was feeling that they have met somewhere .

Suddenly , he remembered Omkar by looking at a boy . He asked the boy his name , the boy said “my name is Omkar. You look a little familiar”. Raju couldn’t believe his luck! He hugged the boy & he told his name . Omkar & Raju hugged each other tightly . Omkar introduced Raju to his friends & explained everything whatever happened in their childhood . “What a wonderful story! ”Raju formed 7 more friends because of Omkar . Their names were Arjun , Chitra , Shree , Samarth , Shivaji , Ganesh & Rahul.

Raju asked his parents whether they can live there or not . His parents said “we can live there but we can’t afford the money to send you in the same school as your friend”. Raju told Omkar about what his parents said . Ganesh insisted Omkar to talk with Raju’s parents . Ganesh said “ if you want him to be in your school , why don’t you help his parents with the fees ? Omkar went to meet Raju’s parents the next day . He insisted Raju parents to put him in the same school & said “don’t worry about the money me & my parents can help you with the fees”. Raju’s parents thanked Omkar & joined Raju in the same school as Omkar .

One day after school , they decided to go in the nearest mall to eat softies & to play some games in the game zone . Chitra bought 10$ , Shivaji bought 11$ , Ganesh bought 8$ , Shree bought 5$ , Samarth bought 9$ , Arjun bought 6$ & Rahul bought 8$ Omkar & Raju bought 5$ . Together they had 67$! They enjoyed the mall & went home together . After some years they all became adults . They got different occupations . Ganesh became a scientist , Arjun became a firefighter , Rahul became a pilot , Shivaji became a doctor , Chitra became an artist , Shree became an architect Samarth became an author , Omkar became a police & Raju became a soldier .

They helped each other . One day , on the battle field Raju got victory but he ended up getting a bullet in his leg . He was hurt there badly . He went to Shivaji so that he can cure him . One day , Samarth lost his hand in an accident so he went to Shivaji so that he can cure him . But Shivaji said “your hand can’t be healed because there’s too much damage to your hand . Maybe Ganesh can help you because he’s a scientist & maybe he can make you a robotic hand ?” Samarth went to meet Ganesh . When he told him his problem , Ganesh said “don’t worry I can make a robotic hand & I have a machine to do the surgery”. Samarth thanked Ganesh after he got his robotic hand . They went on helping each other .

The Spark Nobody Knew

Written By : Aarti (age 14)

School: PYDS Learning Academy

STORY 100

Once there was a girl named Noor. She was very quiet. She always sat alone in class and didn't talk much. Everyone thought she was boring. They said she was not smart or special. But no one truly knew her heart.

Noor loved to read and write stories. She had a big imagination. At home, she would write about stars, dreams, and kindness. But in school, she never showed her stories to anyone. She thought people would laugh at her. She was scared no one would understand her.

In our school, we had a Friendship Day Story Writing Competition. Everyone was excited and busy writing. Noor sat alone, looking at her notebook but not writing anything. I was watching her from far. I could feel she had something special inside her, something she was hiding.

I went to her and smiled. I said, "Hi Noor, are you writing a story for the competition?" She looked surprised but smiled softly. "I want to, but I don't think my stories are good." I said, "Why don't you try? I believe you can write a beautiful story."

The next day, she came to school and showed me her story. It was called "The Spark Nobody Knew". It was about a little star in the sky that thought it had no light. The other stars laughed at it. But one night, the star helped guide a lost child in the dark. Then all the stars saw its light and said sorry. The story made me cry. It was so beautiful and full of hope.

I told Noor, "You must submit this. The world needs to hear your story."

She was nervous but said, "Okay, I will try."

The Spark Nobody Knew

On the day of the competition, many students submitted their stories. Noor was very quiet but looked peaceful. When the results came, we were all waiting. Third prize... second prize... Noor was not called. Then the teacher said, "And the first prize goes to... 'The Spark Nobody Knew' by Noor!"

Everyone clapped. Noor looked shocked. Her eyes filled with tears-not of sadness, but of joy. She went on stage, and for the first time, the whole school saw her. The quiet girl was now shining like a star.

After that day, Noor was not alone. Students started talking to her, asking about her stories. Teachers praised her. Noor became confident. She smiled more, talked more, and shared more of her beautiful stories.

I was happy too. I was proud that I helped her believe in herself. I knew from the beginning that she was special. She just needed someone to say, "You can do it."

Noor was the spark nobody knew. But now, everyone knows her light.

Salim and the little Penguin

Written By : Arohan Acharya (age 12)

School: Grade 7, Dreamtime Learning School

STORY 101

My name is Santo. Recently, folks around me have started calling me Santo Claus. This is the story behind my new name, all thanks to my best buddy Salim and a tiny little Penguin!

I live in the beautiful snow-clad coastal town of Himpur. We are almost an island, except for a small stretch of narrow land about a mile long that connects to Eglesia, the city center. My best friend is Salim. He lives next door. He has two best friends; one is me and the other is his pet penguin called 'Penguin.' When the 'Penguin' was a baby and abandoned by its parents, my pet dog Sheru brought it home. Not that Sheru is a particularly kind dog, he brings home anything that stands out in the Snow when he goes for his morning strolls. I remember one day, he dragged a local drunkard named Surendran by the collar when he passed out on the curb because he was wearing a red jacket. No one in my home likes Shero. They usually shoo him away when he is around. I don't think my busy parents know he lives with us. I like Shero because he helps finish the Dosas and Idlis that my maid makes daily. Shero got the tiny baby Penguin home a few months ago. He thought it was a pillow and used the baby as a pillow to lay his head on. I thought the penguin was a stuffed toy and decided to have a look, only to find it breathing and blinking its eyes. I was horrified and almost threw the baby out the window! I then showed it to Salim, and he begged me to give it to him. So, I gave him the Penguin.

Salim grew fond of the Penguin to the point that he started spending less time with me, even on the weekends. This infuriated me. I thought he would one day become bored of the penguin, like I got bored of Sheru, but they just got closer. So, I decided to do what any smart boy like me would do. I decided to kidnap the Penguin and feed it to the leopard seals. I felt a rush of victory come over me even before I embarked on my mission. Just then, there was a knock on my door. I opened the door and found Salim completely out of breath. He held my collar and dragged me out of the house. I assumed he learnt about my plan. But how did he? I was just thinking about it and hadn't mentioned it to anyone. We stopped right at his door, and he told me, "My pet Penguin is gone!" I never heard anything that made me happier! But I had to pretend to be kind and concerned. Although for the most part, I wondered who also had the same plan as mine to kidnap the penguin on the eve of Christmas and feed it to the leopard seals.

We searched everywhere and by the day's end, everyone in the town, including my dog Shero, was looking for the Penguin! Night came, and there was no lead. Now, even I was concerned! It was a strange feeling. How can you feel worried and breathless about something you don't care about? It was perhaps the thought of my friend Salim, who was sad and distraught, or probably the thought of a lonely little Penguin surrounded by the vicious seals. I didn't know what to do.

Who, besides me, would be upset with Salim having a fluffy little Penguin? And just then, just like that, I knew who it was.

I looked at Sheru, and Sheru looked at me. Within a brief moment, I saw his tail, which was high up in an alert position, go between his legs, a sign that he was hiding something. I slowly got up. Sheru slowly started walking backwards. I ran, and Sheru ran even faster.

Both of us were going in the direction of Sheru's shed in our backyard. There in his shed, I found, along with a half- eaten and mercilessly shredded photograph of Salim, a tiny little fluffy pillow that resembled a Penguin. It looked motionless.

I slowly picked it up and I felt it breathing slowly, and then it blinked its eye! Oh! What a relief! Everyone in the town was happy, especially Salim. I was showered with praises and a new nickname, Santa Claus. It might have all started with certain wicked thoughts (which we will not bring up again!) but in the end I knew how much Salim means to me and the penguin to him.

I guess I will love the penguin just as much and I and Salim will become good friends. Sometime in friendship, you need to do things differently. You should stop listening to your ego and let your heart speak.

Everyone in the town was happy. Everyone, except for Sheru. He was nowhere to be seen.

Maybe he is plotting his revenge or is probably out looking for another abandoned baby penguin.

I hope the latter is true.

The end

FROM RIVAl TO FRIENDSHIP

Written By : Nikhat (7A)

School: pukal youth development society learning academy

STORY 102

Once upon a time there was a small forest in a village . Inside the forest ,two friends trees lived together named an Oak tree and a Mango tree. They used to stand next to each other in the forest but they used to tease each other because the Oak tree was very strong and the fruits of the Mango tree were very sweet.

One day Oak tree thought that why not we ask for the friendship but the Mango tree was not understanding this. Another day when there was a storm the Mango tree fell on the Oak tree and in this attempt Oak gets slightly injuries. But the Mango tree had not forget his arrogance even after that...

Then one day some humans cut down the Oak tree because it was strong and many types of furnitures could be made from its wood . As soon as men started cutting him he started screaming and was started to saying that " help help "mango tree please saved me but the Mango tree did not saved him .

Some remaining roots were inside the soil and from the same, another Oak tree came out . But by then the Mango tree had grown old . After some years due to strong flood old Mango tree was washed away but still that second Oak tree helped him .

After that when flood stopped the Mango tree understood and after breaking it's pride and swagger it started friendship with the Oak tree from that day he started to help the Oak tree.

THANKU

A little rabbit and Rosie friends

Written By : Nushat

School: Philips memorial junior High school, Rajpur

STORY 103

In a forest, a little rabbit named Rosie befriended a lost kitten named Mansi. Rosie welcomed Mansi into her burrow and showed her around the forest. As they explored, they discovered they shared a love for berries and playing hide-and-seek.

When Mansi's family came searching for her, Rosie helped them reunite. Mansi's family was grateful to Rosie for taking care of their kitten. From then on, Rosie and Mansi became inseparable friends, having many more adventures together.

Their friendship taught them that helping others and being kind can lead to lifelong bonds and wonderful memories.

THANKU

The Unbreakable Bond of True Friendship

Written By : Astha Anil Desai (7A)

School: ST.THERESA HIGH SCHOOL, STO ESTEVAM.

STORY 104

In a small village nestled in the rolling hills of rural India, there lived two inseparable friends, Rohan and Aryan. They were more than just classmates; they were each other's support system, confidants, and partners in every sense of the word. Their friendship was a beautiful blend of laughter, adventure, and mutual respect.

Rohan, with his quick wit and sharp mind, was always ready with a clever solution to any problem they encountered. Aryan, on the other hand, was a creative genius, with a passion for art and music that knew no bounds. Together, they formed a formidable team, complementing each other's strengths and weaknesses.

One fateful day, Aryan's family faced a severe financial crisis. Their farm had been affected by a severe drought, and the crops had failed, leaving them on the brink of disaster. Aryan was devastated, feeling helpless and worried about his family's future. Rohan, sensing his friend's distress, sprang into action.

Without hesitation, Rohan approached his own family and requested their help. Together, they rallied around Aryan's family, providing them with food, financial assistance, and emotional support. Rohan's family even offered to help Aryan's family with their farmwork, ensuring that they wouldn't lose everything.

As the days turned into weeks, Aryan's family began to recover from the crisis. The villagers, inspired by Rohan's selfless act, also pitched in to help. Slowly but surely, Aryan's family started rebuilding their lives. Aryan was overwhelmed with gratitude towards Rohan, who had stood by him like a rock during the darkest of times.

Their friendship deepened even further as they navigated the challenges together. Rohan and Aryan became an inspiration to their entire village, showcasing the true meaning of friendship and loyalty. Years went by, and the bond between Rohan and Aryan only grew stronger.

As they grew older, Rohan and Aryan went on to pursue their respective dreams. Rohan became a successful engineer, while Aryan's artistic talents earned him recognition as a renowned painter. Despite their diverging paths, their friendship remained unshakeable.

One day, when Aryan's artwork was showcased in a prestigious gallery, Rohan was the first person he called to share the news. Rohan beamed with pride as he attended the exhibition, celebrating his friend's success. In that moment, Aryan realized that true friends like Rohan were rare treasures, worth cherishing forever.

Their story serves as a testament to the power of true friendship – a bond that transcends time, distance, and adversity. Rohan and Aryan's friendship will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew them, a shining example of what it means to stand by one another through thick and thin.

THANKU

True Friendship

Written By : Siddhika pundir (age 13)

STORY 105

Friendship in a simple words means-Supportive, Loyal, trusted , Respectful Careful, Comfort zone...

On the very first day of the school Maya felt very nervous and stepped out of her comfort zone. New faces, New classroom , She was feeling unfamiliar surrounding unit she met Priya. Maya found her real friend ( true friendship).Priya was everything, Maya din’t that Priya was finding a : kind, supportive and she was ready to listen everything. Whether Maya was unsafe / worried about the exams ,Priya was stood beside her like a rock. She was careful with Maya’s feeling and never judged her ,she only encourage her to be best visionary of her ...

They shared secrets ,laughter and ever tears to each other Maya real trusted to Priya more than anyone. Their bonds was not build overnight but thought years of shared memories and understand each other deeply ..

They talk to each other with respect, One day Maya faced a difficult decision about switching schools. She feared the distance might end their friendship. Priya said to Maya that friendship is not only meeting every day. It is not about giving up our promises .

Years passed, and though they were in different cities, their friendship never faded. They supported each other through every milestone—college, first jobs, and heartbreaks.

True friendship, Maya realized, isn’t about perfection—it’s about being there when it matters most. And in Priya, she had found a friend who made her stronger, wiser, and truly loved.

Because true friends don’t just walk into your life—they stay.......

Parallel Paths

Written By : Avyan Singh

School: Finland International School, Thane

STORY 106

Once upon a time,

There lived two steadfast friends, Vishal and Rajesh. The two were inseparable, sharing everything with each other. Living in cozy homes nestled in the heart of Thane, the duo attended Finland International School, where they enjoyed delightful days learning everything they could, while also making a bit of time for mischief, too, like the time they hit a cricket ball and smashed someone’s window! But one fateful day, while they were sitting in Class VA, a very interesting announcement echoed off the walls at midday.

A booming voice said: WE WILL BE WELCOMING A NEW STUDENT TOMORROW. HIS NAME IS VARUN PATHIA.

At this, the whole class cheered. In Finland, a new student was always welcomed with a big celebration. So, Vishal and Rajesh returned home with anticipation of the day ahead, skipping through the complex. The next day, the festivities went perfectly, but there was something unique. Varun had spastic bilateral quadriplegia, otherwise known as cerebral palsy. He couldn’t walk or talk, and had a shiny blue wheelchair.. No one would sit near him. But Vishal and Rajesh were different. They believed that every child deserves a friend, no matter how strange or weird he is. So, one day, they plucked up the courage and went to say “Hi.” He looked up happily, pleased that someone was finally talking to him. Then, Vishal noticed a green device attached to the wheelchair. Inquisitive, he asked what it was. Varun prodded a button on the device with his thumb. Then, the screen lit up, and a voice came through the speaker. “Hello. This is my Medi-Talker. It speaks for me. Thanks for talking to me. I felt kind of lonely.” Amazed, Rajesh said that they would like to be his friends. Varun replied with a cheery “Yes, of course. I’d love to be friends with you!”

Later, at lunch break, Vishal & Rajesh saw something terrible out of the corner of their eye. Five of the school’s most notorious bullies were heading straight towards Varun, who was shuddering with fear. At that moment, they both knew what to do. The duo boldly said, “Leave him ALONE… NOW!” The bullies turned and snickered. One sneered and said, “Or what?” Rajesh then realized he and Vishal had done exactly the right thing. While the bullies were distracted, Varun had zipped away on his electric wheelchair, laughing all the way. When the bullies realized what had happened, they gave chase, not to Varun, but to our terrific twosome. They shot through the musty corridors, the footsteps of the bullies not far behind. Suddenly, they collided with someone. It was the principal, on his way to his office. Breathless, they understood he had witnessed all the goings-on of that corridor.

After dealing with the bullies, he told them this: “Vishal, Rajesh. You did a wonderful thing for Varun today. Not many friends would stand up for Varun like that, and it is a symbol of your courage, loyalty, and true friendship. Thank you for acting as you did. I am ever grateful to you.” When they left, Varun, waiting outside, flooded them with a string of appreciations from his Medi-Talker. Then, they walked off happily, ready to face another day a true friends.

The End

Moral: Being a true friend isn’t just being kind. It’s about standing up for your friends when they need you.

My shadow my soul

Written By : Tanvi Thapli (age 12)

School: Purkul youth development society learning academy

STORY 107

This is a story of a young and a very brilliant mind Keshav. He had no friends still was very happy.

Every time he secured the first position in his class, he had a passion for dance his guru miss" priya thapa " helped him in shaping his future in dance.

One day Keshav went to haridwar for a dance yoga competition were he met a girl named Aarti. Aarti was the same case as Keshav, later both became good friends, after his 12th he met Aarti again at that time he and his family was suffering from some financial problems, then Aarti gave her full support to Keshav and together they opened a dance academy which was named as shadow and soul academy.

# So this was an exciting story of Keshav and Aarti.

I hope that you all also have friends like Aarti who help you in every situation.

Thankyou

THE POWER OF SORRY

Written By : ABHA YADAV (age 14)

School: Purkul youth development society learning academy

STORY 108

There was a girl named Alya. he was 11 years old and in grade 4.She was the topper of the class .Her best friend was Anam.

They studied in the same school. They were good friends, they shared each and everything with each other. But one day someone told Alya that Anam was cheating her to get good marks and pass the exams ,however Alya said that a Anam was her friend so they would help each other in studies.

But alya's classmates told many things about Anam to her but things that were not true,the class mates didn’t want anam and alya to be best friends .Still Alya didn't believe them. But one day one of her classmate took alya's notebook and tore some pages and placed it in Anam’s bag .When alya was looking for her notebook she found her notebook in Anam's bag ,so she took it out and saw that the pages were missing . Alya got very angry.

This created a huge misunderstanding between them. Alya decided not to talk to her. Both of them felt sad ,they both were good at recitation too and had won many prizes. When they were in grade 5 they were selected for a recitation competition. On that day when the competition was over and they both won the prizes, the competition was ended, her mother came to school and took her home with the principal's permission.

After that day Anam never came back to school. Alya didn't have the contact number of Anam. After a couple of weeks Alya asked the teachers about her but no one told her about Anam.One day she went to the principal's office and requested to know about Anam ,the principal told her that Anam had left the school and would not return. Alya felt very sad after hearing this. Alya realized that not talking to Anam had been a big mistake. From that day on, Alya’s behaviour changed.

She sat alone in the class and became very quiet. After passing grade 5, Alya joined a new school. At first, she felt lonely. But when she passed grade 6 in the new school and entered grade 7 she once saw Anam in the previous school they were in .She saw her from her school bus because Alya's bus passed from her previous school.one day they both recognised each other in grade 9.They both were very happy meeting each other.

They exchanged their phone numbers and began talking every day. With time, they rebuilt the trust and bond between them.

Alya apologized for misunderstanding anam, and anam forgave alya with a cute smile. They promised never to let anyone come between their friendship again .From that day on ,they stood by each other-not just as friends, but as sisters by heart. They started chatting on WhatsApp, and shared their things.

When they passed grade 12th from different school, they joined the same college and studied together.

They understand the true strength of their bond. They were not just friends but an inspiration for others that how a small thing led to a large misunderstanding but we should forgive them with a smile!

THE POWER OF SORRY

Written By : Tanvi Thapli (age 12)

School: Purkul youth development society learning academy

STORY 109

Lali was a girl who had a passion for playing violin but she did not had a family support. She was not good in studies but very sharp at playing violin.

Her father passed away in a road accident and her mother was a single parent of Lali and his brother Ravi, both understood the difficulties through which their mother was going through, but after sometime Ravi stopped understanding his mother and became weak in studies , his mother was very sad seeing that.

Lali understood that she has to work hard for giving her mother all the luxuries. She did not had any friend rather than her violin when lali was sad she use to play it and talk to it this connection grew stronger over the years.

She followed her passion with her violin which she named as mahendran. One day lali got a chance to perform in stage with mahendran both thrilled together, each and every audience was thrilled to se there performance.

There lali met a chief guest named Poonam khetal she also had a passion for violin in her young age and went through same difficulties as lali was going through. She talked with lali and lali told all her problems to the chief guest Poonam ma'am was a very kind soul and provided lali with a scholarship.

Lali studied well and became an export violinist and was awarded by many awards. She made her mother feel proud and very happy and this can't be done without mahendran.

Moral : we don't know how small things can affect our future and get closer to us so respect each an every thing which can give you unbearable experiences.

* Like lali and mahendran do you guys have a special bond with something . I have it with my ghungroos and books.❤❤

Friendship Bond

Written By : Anupriya Kumari

STORY 110

My friend and I met in kindergarten, and from that moment on, we were inseparable. We shared our toys, our snacks, and our secrets. As we grew older, our friendship deepened. We explored our neighborhood, played games, and had sleepovers.

One of our favorite things to do was go on adventures. We'd pack a bag with sandwiches, fruit, and water and set off to explore the nearby woods. We'd climb trees, pick wildflowers, and watch the birds.

My friend was always there for me, no matter what. When I was feeling down, they'd listen to me and offer words of encouragement. When I was struggling with a problem, they'd help me find a solution.

As we entered our teenage years, we faced new challenges. We had to balance schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and our social lives. But through it all, our friendship remained strong. We'd study together, share notes, and support each other through tough times.

One of the things I admire most about my friend is their kindness. They're always willing to lend a helping hand, whether it's helping me move or listening to me when I need someone to talk to.

Over the years, we've shared countless memories. We've laughed together, cried together, and grown together. We've been through ups and downs, and through it all, our friendship has remained unbreakable.

As we look to the future, I know that my friend will always be there for me. We'll continue to support each other, encourage each other, and make more memories together.

Our friendship is a reminder that true friends can come into our lives at any age and become lifelong companions. I'm grateful for the adventures we've had, the laughter we've shared, and the memories we've created.

The bond of Friendship

Written By : Anupriya Kumari

School: St. Theresa High School Sto. Estevam, Ilhas - Goa

STORY 111

The Mural of Memories

You and your friends decided to create a massive mural on the school's wall, representing your friendship. Each brushstroke told a story, each color symbolized a memory, and each stroke of paint brought your bond closer.

Rohan added vibrant hues, representing the laughter and jokes you shared. Priya incorporated intricate designs, symbolizing the creativity and imagination you all possessed. Aryan added bold strokes, depicting the sportsmanship and teamwork that defined your group.

As you worked on the mural, you reminisced about your favorite moments together. You recalled the time you won the school's debate competition, the time you had a surprise party for Priya's birthday, and the time you all stayed up late, sharing secrets and dreams.

The mural became a masterpiece, a testament to your friendship. It told the story of your journey, your struggles, and your triumphs. As you stepped back to admire your work, you felt a sense of pride and accomplishment.

The mural became a landmark in your school, a symbol of your friendship that would inspire future generations. You and your friends continued to add to it, incorporating new memories and experiences.

Years later, when you looked back on your school days, the mural would remind you of the laughter, the adventures, and the unbreakable bond you shared with your friends.

The bond of Friendship

Written By : Nushat

School: Phillip memorial junior High school, Rajpur

STORY 112

In a bustling city, three individuals from different walks of life crossed paths and formed an unlikely friendship. There was Marcus, a successful businessman in his late 30s, Sofia, a free-spirited artist in her mid-20s, and Jamal, a quiet but wise elderly man in his 60s.

Their paths converged at a local café, where Marcus would often grab a coffee before work, Sofia would sketch the cityscapes, and Jamal would read his favorite books. One day, they struck up a conversation, and their differences sparked a fascinating dynamic.

Marcus, driven by ambition, found solace in Sofia's carefree nature and Jamal's wisdom. Sofia, fueled by creativity, admired Marcus's drive and Jamal's life experiences. Jamal, enriched by years of knowledge, appreciated Marcus's determination and Sofia's passion.

As they spent more time together, they discovered common ground in their shared values and interests. Marcus introduced Sofia to the world of entrepreneurship, while Sofia taught Marcus to appreciate art. Jamal shared his life stories, offering valuable insights and guidance.

Their friendship deepened, and they became a support system for each other. Marcus found inspiration in Sofia's art and Jamal's wisdom, helping him navigate the corporate world. Sofia's creativity flourished, thanks to Marcus's encouragement and Jamal's mentorship. Jamal's experiences were validated, and his wisdom was appreciated by his new friends.

Together, they explored the city, attending art exhibitions, business conferences, and community events. Their differences became strengths, and their bond grew stronger. They proved that friendship knows no boundaries – not age, profession, or background.

One day, Marcus faced a tough decision at work. Sofia's creative perspective and Jamal's wise counsel helped him find a solution. Sofia struggled with self-doubt, but Marcus's confidence and Jamal's reassurance boosted her morale. Jamal faced health challenges, and his friends rallied around him, providing support and companionship.

Their friendship was a testament to the power of connection and community. In a world that often emphasizes differences, Marcus, Sofia, and Jamal showed that people from diverse backgrounds could come together, learn from each other, and form lasting bonds.

As they looked back on their journey, they realized that their friendship was a masterpiece, crafted with threads of trust, empathy, and understanding. They knew that no matter what life brought, their bond would remain unbreakable.

Thank you....

The wonders of friendship

Written By : Myiesha Gupta (Age 10-11)

School: Finland International School Thane

STORY 113

Once upon a time, in London, there lived a small girl, Anya. She was smart, intelligent, and very participative. She would always have an answer to the teacher’s questions. All she lacked was a bit of confidence.

But, there was one problem. All students at school hated her light brown skin. They used to make fun of her everyday. For instance, if the teacher asked a question, when she was answering, they would mimic(or mock) her.

One day, there was a new student. She too, just like Anya, had light brown skin. But, even she had hobbies (art, craft, singing and reading).

Now, the bullies had made both Anya and Scarlette ( the new girl ) their targets.

Anya and Scarlette hardly knew each other. Though they met through lectures, they never spoke. Scarlette, however, used to see Anya participating in all the competitions and thought of meeting her.

Nobody knew that what was going to happen next would change their lives forever.

As Scarlette had thought, she went to meet Anya.

Anya was surprised, as she had hardly seen Scarlette speak. Still though, she agreed, and they became friends, good ones.

As this happened, both of them started sharing their skills with each other, and soon, they both got closer, their parents also became nice friends.

They became best friends, supporting each other and standing up to the bullies.

As the next few years passed by, slowly and gradually the bullies started becoming their friends, not because of their traits, but because of their friendship.

Now, the whole school supported them. But Anya and Scarlette were like two peas in a pod. No one could stop them. They were as thick as thieves.

But then, something shocking happened! Scarlette had an accident with a car and was admitted to the hospital. As soon as this news reached Anya, who was at home, waiting for Scarlette to come home. She was horrified.

Anya just ran to the hospital with all her might. She had never run so fast. Finally, in Scarlette’s room, when Anya saw her bandages she almost fainted. These were the same bandages that she hated, as once when she was 2. They had nearly killed her. But, as for Scarlette, she could hardly hear anyone. But, then, a miracle happened!

(Anya and Scarlette loved songs, so Anya was just singing to pass time, but that was a song of a really very strong memory they had together (it was Scarlette’s favourite song, and they both danced at it a lot.)

As Anya sang, a sound went into Scarlette’s brain. And then, her brain recognised it, it was her best song! Suddenly Scarlette started hearing everything properly, and as soon the doctors saw that it was the song that helped, they told Anya to sing it again and again. As she sang it, over a few days, Scarlette got better and after a few more days, she could speak.

It took at least two months for Scarlette to recover, but it was a speedy recovery. She was soon discharged from the hospital and was free to go home.

But, as they were coming home from the hospital, Scarlette and Anya both realised something. True friendship isn’t about being there when it’s convenient, it’s about being there when it’s not. Scarlette felt really happy that she had not only found a really good friend, but also a strong supporter of her.

So the moral of the story is that a good friend doesn’t have to be just a friend who saves your life, but also someone who can make you laugh even at your saddest moments.

Thank you

Friendship

Written By : Kritika Gupta (8C)

School: Sunbeam School Ballia

STORY 114

Friendship is not a word, this is the feeling of millions of hearts and emotions which are connected to each other and that no one can feel.

At that time a thing was proved that friendship is the only thing which can take you to the good vibes.

This story begins with the life of a girl from class 4th. Her name is Kritika Gupta and in class 4th she is having a very cool teacher Aayush Kumar Tiwari. He always supports her too much as she is more interested in all co-curricular activities than others. Kritika has the closest friends Navya and Gaury. As time passes their friendship becomes too deep.

They fight to sit with Kritika, seeing this their class teacher said Kritika will sit alone behind you both. They agreed to the teacher's decision and they three became the toppers of the class — 1st Kritika, 2nd Gaury, 3rd Navya. They started spending more time with each other. Their chilling time, lunch, bunk, beat from teachers, falling, fasting, and everything always happens with them at the same time.

But still class monitor Kritika and her friends Navya and Gaury are teachers’ favourites, but Kritika is most likely of all subjective teachers. Their chill in the whole school is very famous because of their friendship. The main thing is that “If one has not completed her homework then the other two say that we haven’t completed the homework."

Like the journey of class 4th, 2 years has passed — 5th and 6th — but the last day of class 6th was such a death day for Navya, Gaury and teachers especially Aayush Kumar Tiwari because he is the only person who guided her through the journey of 3 years.

The last day was the most memorable moment for Kritika because she was leaving school, with her friends Navya & Gaury. Teachers are also weeping. On that day, tears from their eyes are not stopping from their hearts.

But life doesn’t have few friends with deep meaning. That was such an unforgettable day for everyone’s life.

After leaving school, Kritika meets her friends after 1.5 years. On that day a science exhibition was held. Kritika was really lucky for her friends.

After meeting her friends and teachers and having a short break, result was announced and her friends got first position in the whole school.

Who Is the Real Friend?

Written By : Nisha Reshmi

STORY 115

Once upon a time, there lived a girl named Nisha in a small village of Dehradun. She used to think that her parents were strict with her, and she really hated them for that. She loves going to school . She was very close to her friends and loved spending time with them . She believed her first priority was her friends and that their friendship will never end.

Their group had five members in total. They were one of the most popular friend groups in school, and everyone admired their bond, saying, “If friendship exists, it should be like theirs!”

One day, Nisha’s grandfather passed away, and she had to travel to her village in Gulmi, Nepal. She had to take two weeks off from school. Everyone in her class, including her four best friends, came to know about it. Nisha kept waiting for her friends to call her, but none of them did. She felt very sad and thought her friends were selfish — and they were.

Her friends were enjoying school without her and were just excited that when Nisha returned, she would bring gifts for them, as she always did after visiting new places. Nisha used to give her four friends expensive gifts.

When Nisha came back to India and returned to school, her four friends were very happy to see her and immediately began asking about the gifts. But she wasn’t in the mood to talk. She felt hurt because none of them had even asked if everything was okay or how she had been. She also had a lot of schoolwork pending, but none of her friends offered their notebooks or any help.

Nisha felt heartbroken and shared everything with her parents. They listened to her patiently, comforted her, and then went to school to speak with her class teacher. Her parents explained everything and requested the teacher to help Nisha catch up on her missed work. The teacher understood and supported Nisha in completing her assignments.

That’s when Nisha realized she had been wrong about her parents. No one can be a better friend than our parents. They may scold us sometimes, but it’s always for our good. She hugged her parents tightly and understood that they were her true friends, teachers, and lifelong companions.

Moral: Even if the Earth shifts from its place, our parents ( real friends) will be on our side.

THANKYOU!!!

MAANVI & SAANVI

Written By : Ashmita Yadav (6B)

STORY 116

ones upon a time , two friends name and Maanvi and Saanvi , they both are a best friend . Maavi lives in small town with her parents and Saanvi is also live near the town of Maanvi , like a neighbours.

Maanvi is a brilliant student and she have also score second rank and her over all performance is very nice where has channels also good in her study and she have also score 4th rank in the half yearly exam and her performance was good in her study but she always make joke of everyone not help the other friends in there any work.

They both study in the same school and in the same class. They share a beautiful born and have a fun and enjoy together.

They both help each other. One day , they both are sitting together an enjoy very much and that they they have received many homework and a project work also of Science and the science teacher was very strict so , that's why after going home Maanvi start making a project and did her all homework on the time and then she went to have village for an urgent work and suddenly there parents make a plan to go village that's why man we have not tell anything about this to Saanvi and the school.

After this school can we went to play and she is thinking that Maanvi will help her tomorrow in her incomplete work that's why after playing should you have project and the rest worksheet left as the incomplete.

Tommorow, when she went to school she founded that her best friend is absent so , she is very afraid than, she asked her ather friend to help her in incomplete work and everyone refuses I'm not help her in any work so, she feel very sad and she did her own work but that day, she realised that she should help everyone so that they can help you and the day after tomorrow , when Maanvi came to school then Saanvi tell her everything about what happened with her yesterday, that nobody have helped her so , then Maanvi teaches her that we should always be friendly with others and and always help each other so that , they can help you in your work.

From that day Saanvi learn a lesson that she should help other and she starts helping her friends. They starts live together and help each other. And Saanvi starts helping others.

From this story - we learn that we should be friendly towards others, be responsible at our work and make a best friend like Maanvi so , that , we learn something from them .

Dhar mann

Written By : Nimesaa shukla

STORY 117

Once there was a girl named Mina, who was strangely weird to her classmates. She would read books whenever she would get time she didn't talk to anyone and quite often lonely.

She would be seen always buried inside her book and talking to someone, her classmates always thought that she was weird but she was having a really great time with her “imaginary friend” she would be seen talking passionately, laughing ,and also listening attentively.

After a while, her classmates began to grow curious.

One day during lunch break, a girl named Riya dared to ask, “Who are you always talking to, Mina?”

Mina looked up, eyes wide “My friend Aro,” she whispered with a gentle smile.

“He tells me stories no one else knows. "The class burst into laughter, and someone muttered, “She’s totally crazy.”

But Mina didn’t seem to care. She went back to her book, Days turned into weeks, and strange things began to happen. The lights in the classroom would flicker when Mina was around. Pages from books would turn by themselves. One time, Riya swore she saw a shadow sitting next to Mina even though the chair was empty.

One rainy day, the teacher asked the students to draw their best friend. Mina drew a boy with pale eyes, long dark hair, and a scarf that seemed to float. Underneath, she wrote: “Aro – the one who remembers everything.”

The teacher was confused. “Is he from your imagination, Mina?”

Mina looked straight into her eyes and said quietly, “He used to be real. A long time ago.”

Silence fell.

That night, the school’s librarian found something shocking. An old class photograph from 50 years agee and there, in the last row, was a boy with pale eyes and a floating scarf. His name was Aro. And he had died in that very classroom.

After that rainy day, things started to change. The students still found Mina strange, but a little spark of curiosity had grown in their hearts. Riya, especially, couldn’t stop thinking about the drawing of Aro the boy with pale eyes and a floating scarf.

As Friendship Day approached, the class was buzzing with excitement. Colorful cards, friendship bands, and glitter flew around like confetti. But Mina stayed in her usual spot under the big banyan tree during breaks, book in hand, talking softly to Aro. Riya decided to do something bold.

On the morning of Friendship Day, she walked up to Mina and handed her a card — it was handmade, with little stars and a ribbon. “This is for you,” she said, smiling nervously. Mina blinked in surprise. She took the card slowly, then whispered, “Wait here.”

She opened her book — but this time, something magical happened. A soft light glowed from its pages. With a shimmer, a beautiful silver envelope floated out of the book and into Mina’s hands. On it were tiny letters written in starlight: To a New Friend. She gave it to Riya. “Aro made it,” Mina said softly. “He’s very happy I have a real friend now.”

Riya opened the envelope — and inside was a card that shimmered with moving illustrations. It showed Riya and Mina sitting under the banyan tree, smiling, with a boy made of stardust watching them kindly. From that day, everything changed.

Mina still spoke to Aro, but now, she also had Riya by her side. The other students grew curious again, but now, instead of mocking her, they wanted to join. Mina started writing magical stories with Riya, and whoever read them found themselves dreaming vivid dreams and feeling a little more wonder in their hearts.

Every year after that, on Friendship Day, the class would sit under the banyan tree and exchange magical cards made not with paper but with imagination, kindness, and a little help from Aro.

Because sometimes, the best friends are not the ones everyone sees but the ones who help us be truly seen.

From this story - we learn that we should be friendly towards others, be responsible at our work and make a best friend like Maanvi so , that , we learn something from them .

William’s Journey

Written By : Mohammed Zayaan

School: Dreamtime Learning School

STORY 118

William is a young man. Every day he goes to school in a well-dressed manner- white shirt, black trouser with blue blazer, tie, brown shoes with a silver watch weirdly around his wrist always. This is his routine since childhood. His mother was always confused about it, says “Sweetie, try another outfit, maybe this once?”, but William refused.

William is not a sociopath, he is just a normal person who only focuses on himself and his needs. He goes to a public school. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Really, he dresses like that for public school?”, Yes, he does. He always walks regardless of situation, a green light about to turn red? He walks.

He never runs, yet. Middle school is and will always be a different experience, even for William. The large school gates opened wide, but William’s expression indifferent. The teachers greeted him, but he just smiled. William walked in and the grade assigner searched through cards, before handing him one that said: William Clove, “Grade 6 th , Section D, Miss Archers class. William opened the door.

The classroom was in a chaos, kids were beating up each other, girls and boys gossiping about each other. William was slightly startled, but he sat down on a chair, labelled ‘William’. No one paid attention to him. Then, a student burst through. A blonde, medium-sized boy stood in the middle of the classroom. He wore a white sweater with yellow stripes, and blue pants, with black shoes that are tied perfectly. He walked up to William.

“I believe you are sitting in my spot.” William disagreed. “No, this is my spot, William points to his name written on the chair he was sitting. “Oh, then who is William C., because I’m William Trucker!” The boy made a toothy grin, one of his front teeth were missing. William Clove showed emotion for the first time in a long time. He looked at the boy, William, his blonde hair thick like a bird’s nest.

“W-What, your name is also William?”, William Trucker nodded.

“Yeah, same name, COOL right?”

William Clove had to sit next to William Trucker, which bothered the brains out of him. William Trucker was loud, crazy, but annoyingly cheerful. William Clove has never met someone who’s as lively as William Trucker.

The teacher walked in, “Hello, I’m Miss Archer, and I’m your homeroom teacher!”, the teacher introduced herself. Miss Archer had a warm smile and she made everyone introduce themselves. “William Clove!”, said William Clove. “William Trucker!”, said William Trucker.

“Oh, two Williams I see.” Miss Archer was figuring out how to distinguish between them. “Oh I have an idea! William Clove will be Clove; William Trucker will be Trucker! How’s that sound?” “Perfect, sounds AWESOME.”, Trucker was joyous about it. Clove groaned. He doesn’t like HIS name getting changed.

Lunchtime had come. All the kids ran to the cafeteria, even the, big ones too.

Clove had a packed lunch, so he sat outside in the lawn, where the fresh, warm sunlight covered him, creating a dark shadow behind him. He was about to take a bite into his food, until he heard something. “Hey, listen, I need that money of yours now!”, said a boy.

Clove looked in the direction of the conversation and saw Trucker, and a boy, taller than him, a little big for his size. Trucker was stuttering and whimpering in great fear. He said he needed this for his lunch. The boy stomped his feet. “LISTEN HERE, I, do not care if you’re hungry, or not. I need YOUR money now!”.

“N-No, it’s mine, I need it”, Trucker said. The boy was about to punch Trucker in his face.

Clove felt the need he had to intervene. He felt bravery, the kind that pushes you to do things you don’t want to do. “Hello there, unhand this person, your selfishness doesn’t permit you to steal from Trucker-”, Clove gets pushed onto the ground, he gasps for air. Trucker too gasps in surprise. “Why you little-”, the boy was about to stomp Clove, but he rolled just in time.

Clove pulls Trucker. “RUN YOU IDIOT!”, they both sprinted for their dear lives. Clove’s blazer had slipped off, he tried to pick it up but Trucker pulled him away just in time from the boy’s hits. They burst through the school doors with their bags in their hands while running.

“Well I guess we managed to get away.”, Clove said. He was exhausted. “Thanks for standing up for me back there, Clove!”, Trucker was grateful for Clove’s help.

“It’s……. fine I guess, no need to thank me.” “Friends?”, asked Trucker. Clover felt warmth in his heart for the first time. Clover and Trucker shook hands; a new bond has been sealed.

The air was breezy, but warm. “Wanna go for ice cream?”, asked Trucker. “Sure, we can do that!”, agreed Clove. They became the best friends forever….

The Stain Within – The Colour Outside

Written By : Mokshika Saboo (8A)

School: Dreamtime Learning School

STORY 119

The twelfth body left everyone shocked. How could Lieutenant Esther not solve this serial killing while she boasts of her flawless record? A shopkeeper, without any grudges, had died in his bedroom, with the iconic circle inside a triangle with Ahnc written below it on the mirror. Each time Esther saw it, she paced with anger, snapped when her pen’s ink ran out. The major crimes department of Las Vegas was piled with lawsuits of the families of the victims of Ahnc. Esther struggled to find a pattern in the killing, as it was all so random: a teenage boy, a football player, a beloved grandma, a security guard...

Captain Megan stormed into Esther’s cabin.

“WHAT IS GOING ON RONALDS? The media wants answers! I just received a call from the Chief of Police, threatening your role. It’s been over two years! What has progressed except the murders?” She banged on her desk, making the pens fall from their stand.

“I'm almost there— give me more time! A month, that's all I need. But I can't focus if the pressure from above doesn't stop.” Esther stood up, while putting the pens back.

“A month, that’s it. If not, I’d like your resignation letter by the end of April.” She declared, and slammed the door while walking out.

Esther quickly pulled out the files of the previous murders. Getting an idea, she went directly to Detective Collins, asking if she could contact the families of the previous victims.

“Go on, but don’t forget, a slip of tongue and the lawsuits will barge in, ultimately to your resignation.” Collins spoke, handing her the files she needed for the investigation.

She met the family of the security guard, Jackson, the first victim, and found out that a weird, gothic girl was his classmate in school - and there were signs of a grudge between them.

Meeting the teen boy, she found out that a gothic woman had taught him math in his 7th grade, and had disliked him. After meeting all the families, she concluded that a goth named Hannah (a shock as her best friend’s name was Hannah too) had met all the victims at some point.

Calling it a day, she crashed at Hannah's, telling her the developments. Hannah worked in the fire department, usually smelling like smoke, and was really interested in Ahnc’s case. It took her a month of convincing to make Esther trust her with the information.

After a week of figuring out how Ahnc was always a step ahead of Esther, she started suspecting Hannah. Her friend would randomly disappear to 'meet family,' and then, almost immediately, crucial evidence would vanish: a bit of DNA, a knife with the killer's prints. Or worse, another murder would occur.

One day, she finally questions Hannah about this unusual occurrence.

“Hannah... Are you Ahnc?” she directly asked, so that the case gets solved quickly. Hannah was a goth because of the abusive parents she lived with. Knowing the trauma she went through, when she came to school with a bruised face, or broken arm or leg, the question itself pierced her heart, thinking, “How could I accuse my best friend of murder”.

After a long pause, Hannah nodded, with tears of agony in her eyes, as she relived her past.

“Why... you could have come to me, I could have helped you!”

“I tried... therapists, psychiatrists, psychologists, police shrinks, none helped. They kept feeding me sleep pills, anxiety pills, god knows what else. I went crazy. Remember the 6 months I was not here, lying that I was on a holiday? I was in an asylum. The people there drove me mad. Jackson? The security? He triggered me so much, I broke free. One night, I crept into his room, with a knife, cutting off his limbs, making him bleed to death, while I lived my fantasy - the triangle and circle, and I made up a name, Ahnc. IF IT WERE YOU, TELL ME ESTHER WHAT WOULD YOU DO?” Hannah went red with anger, and grabbed a knife in her hand.

"Hannah - NO - Wait Hannah - Please - hear me out! I would have done the same! I swear!” Esther wailed while Hannah cut off her own hand. Bleeding, with the second hand, she made her icon on her mirror. Esther pushed Hannah away, but Hannah just showed the knife to her, in a threatening manner. Slowly, she cut off her legs, and didn’t shed a tear.

Esther stared, paralyzed. Her friendship, once a haven, was now a shared prison. There was no going back, no turning away. Her badge meant nothing. The perfect detective solved the Ahnc case, but the city never knew the whole truth, and Esther would forever carry the fiend she called 'friend', because of her empathy for Hannah.

The Last Tear – A Story of True Friendship

Written By : V. Sanjiv

STORY 120

Once upon a time in a cozy kitchen fridge, lived four best friends: Tomato, Egg, Ice Cream, and Onion

Though they were all different in nature — soft, delicate, cold, and layered — they shared a warm and unbreakable bond.

One day, they heard about a magical place called; Forever Fresh; where no food ever spoiled. Determined to find this paradise, the four friends set out on a journey.

As they crossed the road outside, Tomato rolled too fast and was hit by a lorry. The others cried, but Onion wept the hardest. Still, they moved on. When they reached a river, Ice Cream melted in the river while trying to cross it. “Don’t cry,” she smiled, “I’ll always be a part of you.” Egg later tried to leap from a tree but cracked open on the ground. Onion buried his shell gently with tears in his eyes.

ow alone, Onion found a city full of onions and other vegetables. But before he could celebrate, a woman picked him from the shelf and took him home. That night, Onion was chopped. And as always — everyone cried.

But this time, it wasn’t just tears from his sting. People cried because Onion had cried for everyone else. His love, loyalty, and friendship touched hearts forever. The one who truly cries for others is never forgotten.

Moral: “A true friend feels your pain... even when they're the one chopped away.”

The Friendship Contract

Written By : Hephzibah Bolorunduro (age 11)

School: Dreamtime Learning School

STORY 121

“You’re kidding me,” groaned Zara, slamming her notebook shut.” A friendship project? That’s so Grade 2.”

Across the room, Liam yawned. “You’re not thrilled? I thought the popular crowd loved talking about themselves.”

Ms. Patel tapped the whiteboard with her marker. “This isn’t just about selfies and memories, people. You’ll be paired randomly. Your job is to explore what friendship means beyond your comfortable bubble.

You’ll create a ‘Friendship Contract’ with your partner — including at least five rules, and one shared goal. Those who don't complete it before Friday will get no marks for this activity”

Ms. Patal said already reciting the partner list

Ms. Patal grinned suspiciously “Zara you’re with Liam” Zara barely heard the rest. She was staring at Ms. Patal in horror as she heard Ms. Patal pair her with Liam

Liam Cruz.

The weird kid who wore hoodies in summer and drew dragons in his math notes. Head of AV Club. Also known as: the exact opposite of Zara Khan — cheer captain, social queen, and reigning Miss InstaVibes.

She marched up to Ms. Patel. “There must be a mistake.”

“No mistake,” the teacher said, smiling. “You might actually learn something.”

Ms. Patal grinned suspiciously “Zara you’re with Liam” Zara barely heard the rest. She was staring at Ms. Patal in horror as she heard Ms. Patal pair her with LiamaThe next day, Zara and Liam met by the library, awkwardly sitting on opposite sides of the table.

"So," Liam muttered. "Wanna get this over with?"

"Sure," Zara said flatly. She pulled out the worksheet. "Let’s just make it sound good."

They stared at the five boxes titled ‘Rules of Friendship.’

Rule 1: No insults.

Rule 2: No ghosting.

Rule 3: No phones during meetings.

Rule 4: One meme exchange per day.

Rule 5: Secret handshake (optional).

"You seriously want a secret handshake?" Liam raised a brow.

Zara shrugged. "It’s either that or forced karaoke."

He sighed. "Fine. But I’m not doing jazz hands."

Over the next two weeks, they met up daily to "strengthen their fake bond." At first, it was as awkward as trying to hug a cactus.

But somewhere between mocking friendship quotes and laughing over TikTok fails, something shifted.

Liam showed her his animation project — a story about a lonely robot who finds a human friend. Zara was quiet for a moment, then said, “That robot’s basically you, right?”

He blinked. “Wow. You're smarter than I thought.”

“Gee, thanks,” she said, smirking. Then she told him about the pressure she felt being perfect online. “You know how exhausting it is to pretend everything’s great all the time?”

Liam nodded. “I’d rather be invisible than fake. But I guess both suck.” For the first time, they weren’t pretending.

Their “shared goal” turned into making a video diary of their friendship experiment — sarcastic at first, then surprisingly real.

Another showed them trying — and failing — to create a secret handshake, ending with both of them laughing uncontrollably on the floor.

Somehow, the AV Club nerd and the Insta queen became... actual friends.

But reality hit hard when Zara’s bestie Maya saw them hanging out at lunch.

“Seriously? Liam Cruz?” Maya snorted. “Are you building him a social life or just collecting pity projects?”

Zara laughed along — too loudly.

Liam heard.

He didn’t say anything at first. But the next day, he skipped their meeting.

Zara texted. No reply.

She scrolled through their video clips and stopped at one where Liam smiled and said, “I used to think people like Zara were just filters and followers. Turns out, she’s got a real heart.”

Her stomach twisted.

She found him on the bleachers, sketching a dragon with a broken crown.

“Liam...”

He didn’t look up.

“I messed up,” she said. “I let my ‘image’ talk louder than my actual voice. But I wasn’t pretending. Not with you.”

He glanced at her. “So what now? You wanna keep being friends... when it’s convenient?” “No,” she said softly. “I want to keep being friends even when it’s complicated.”

Silence.

Then he tore the sketch in half and handed her one piece. “Dragons don’t do well alone.” They turned in their project: a funny, vulnerable video, their silly rules, and a final line that read:

“Friendship isn’t about looking alike. It’s about looking out for each other.”

Ms. Patel smiled when she watched it.

The class laughed.

And when Liam and Zara did their final secret handshake — jazz hands and all — nobody thought it was fake anymore.

The long wait

Written By : Srishti Kapoor (age 13)

School: Jodhamal Public School

STORY 122

Anton and Michael had been best friends from 1st standard. They were real friends of laughter as well as support in hardships. They had been partners in every single thing- from school pranks to last minute saviours.

They were so close that people sometimes joked- “If you see one of them, the other is not far behind”

But life had different plans for them, different situations for them to face together……

In class 10, Michael’s father lost his job and he and his family had to move to a cheaper town which was about 500 kilometres away from the town they were living in at the current moment. There was no proper goodbye party, just a small farewell by the bus station before he left. Anton did not cry there, he waved him with a smile, but once the bus left, he couldn't stop crying on his way home. They promised to stay in touch, but months passed with no calls and no messages at all. Anton used to text Michael on festivals, birthdays, and random Sundays as well. Nothing came back.

Everything kept on teasing- “He has moved on, and you should too” but Anton ignored everyone and still trusted Michael. Anton didn't change his best friend in school records.

On Anton’s 18th birthday, his phone pinged- “Happy Birthday, bestie”

It's Michael

The shock made Anton nearly drop his phone. Then a video call came. Anton picked up immediately. “I’m sorry. We didn't even have money for Wi-Fi. Things got terrible. I felt guilty”

Anton shook his head, tears falling- “I thought you forgot me”

“I never did, and I never can”

Michael gave a light smile and said- “Go check your gate”

Anton ran and opened the gate. He was surprised to see Michael by his door. He rubbed his eyes, not able to believe him by his door. “I am here in reality,” Michael said with a little laugh. Anton burst into tears. Tears of happiness, patience, trust and friendship. Anton hugged Michael tightly and said- “I missed you, idiot”. “I missed you too” Michael completes.

True friendship never ends, it just waits.

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