As the first rays of dawn broke through the curtains, Riya sat on the edge of her bed, surrounded by unwrapped boxes. Her new room felt so foreign and lifeless. She imagined her mother gently brushing the strands of hair away from her face, just like she did every morning while trying to wake her up. But now, that familiar warmth felt like a distant memory. Today was the first day of college,a new beginning, a step toward her dreams. Yet, the excitement was overshadowed by a profound sense of loss.
She glanced around, her eyes landing on the framed photo she placed next to her bed last night. Tears stung her eyes as memories of her father flooded in. It was a candid shot of them taken during one of their weekend hikes, his infectious smile radiating warmth. In that moment, she could almost hear his voice, a gentle encouragement echoing in her mind: “You’re going to be amazing, Riya. Just believe in yourself.”But belief felt harder now without him beside her, guiding her through every challenge.
She had always relied on his unwavering support, his encouraging words lifting her spirits during moments of doubt. Her memories of her father helping with her school projects to the countless times he celebrated her achievements — his belief in her had been a cornerstone of her confidence. Now, the thought that he wouldn’t be there to support her in her new journey made her heart swell with sadness. It was a void that felt impossible to fill, leaving her grappling with both excitement for her future and the ache of his absence.
She had imagined calling him on the first day,telling him how beautiful the campus was, how many friends she had made, and how she wouldn’t have made it here without him by her side. But now,she would never be able to make that call.
At that moment, Riya made a decision. She would carry his spirit with her, letting his love guide her through the rises and pitfalls ahead.She poured out her feelings in a letter, expressing everything she wished she could say to him in person. It was heartfelt and raw, filled with dreams and a promise to make him proud. She placed the letter in a box alongside others she had written over the months.These letters would be her companions, a bridge between her past and her future.As she zipped up her bag, preparing to leave for college, she picked up the picture of her father, kissed it gently, and whispered, “I will make you proud.”
Stepping outside, the crisp air filled her lungs, invigorating her spirit. She looked back across the road,imagining her father standing there, smiling, his eyes filled with love. For the first time that day, a flicker of excitement sparked within her. She was ready to face this new chapter, carrying the love and lessons he had given her. He was her hero, her role model, her champion. Deep down, she knew he would always be with her, cheering her on from afar, a guiding star in her heart.