The sun dappled through the leaves of the ancient banyan tree, casting playful shadows on the bustling campus. It was the first day of college, a day filled with nervous excitement and the promise of new beginnings. Ishir, a quiet, contemplative soul, and Muskan, a whirlwind of energy and laughter, were an unlikely pair, thrown together by the cruel hand of fate, or perhaps, by a benevolent one.

Their initial interaction was a hesitant exchange of names, a brief encounter that soon blossomed into a deep and enduring friendship. They discovered shared passions, late-night philosophical debates, and a comfortable silence that spoke volumes. Their bond deepened with every passing day, their laughter echoing through the corridors of the college, their presence a comforting constant in each other's lives.

As their friendship blossomed into love, their world became a canvas painted with hues of joy and tenderness. They explored hidden corners of the city, their hands intertwined, their hearts filled with a love that was both innocent and profound. College days were a whirlwind of shared dreams, late-night study sessions, and stolen moments of affection. They were young, they were in love, and the world seemed to be theirs.

The final exams brought a bittersweet end to their carefree college days. A sense of nostalgia hung heavy in the air, a melancholy undercurrent to the celebratory mood. Their last day together was a blur of laughter, tears, and promises of forever. As they walked down the familiar streets, their hearts heavy with the weight of parting, a sudden screech of tires shattered the tranquility.

Ishir's heart pounded in his chest as he saw Muskan, her attention momentarily diverted, step onto the road. Time seemed to slow down as he watched the speeding car hurtling towards her. In a split second, he lunged forward, his body instinctively shielding her from the impending doom. The impact was brutal, a deafening crash that sent shockwaves through the crowd.

Muskan's screams pierced the silence, her voice filled with terror and despair. She crawled towards Ishir, her hands trembling, her eyes wide with horror. Blood trickled down his forehead, staining the pristine white shirt he had worn that morning. His eyes fluttered, his breath shallow, as he slipped into unconsciousness.

A wave of panic swept through the crowd. Someone called for an ambulance, their voice echoing through the stunned silence. Muskan cradled Ishir's head in her lap, her tears mingling with the blood on his face. She pleaded with him to stay awake, her voice a desperate whisper in the face of impending tragedy.

The sirens wailed in the distance, a beacon of hope amidst the despair. The paramedics arrived, their efficiency a stark contrast to the chaos that surrounded them. They worked swiftly, stabilizing Ishir before rushing him to the hospital. Muskan followed, her heart heavy with fear and guilt, her fingers clutching his hand as though her touch alone could bring him back to life.